To start off my New Year, I’m taking a look back at one of my most exciting experiences. Any party hosted by Hugh Hefner is special, but the one Chuck and I attended in 2009 was one of the most memorable for me. Here’s hoping your NYE 2025/26 is special too and that all your resolutions come true this year!
Hef surrounded by friends Kendra, Holly and Bridget in a holiday card sent to this author with photo by Elayne Lodge.
You never forget a Hugh Hefner party and his 2009/2010 NYE bash at the Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills was one of my favorites. This is one of the biggest nights of the year for Hef and, on this night, the Mansion shimmered in purple and green lights, buzzed with Hollywood stars (new and old), body-painted models and more. There was a sense of magic that only Playboy could create. And, believe me, this girl from Dupo, Illinois, had eyes like saucers experiencing this special brand of magic. Enjoy my recap of this iconic night.
The Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills all lit up for the party.
Here’s what happened at the Playboy Mansion’s New Year’s Eve Bash 2009/10
The moment we pulled up in front of the Playboy Mansion in LA and saw it decorated and lit up in deep shades of purple and green, I knew it was going to be a great party. The buzz started as soon as we walked through the front door and, when we stepped into the tented backyard with all of the decorations, it took our breath away.
Part of the lavish NYE buffet at the Mansion.
The tables all held fabulous floral arrangements, and the backdrop was eye-popping as well. It was Playboy at its finest….Hef looked terrific too and very happy with the Shannon Twins and Crystal Harris by his side.
Hef and the Shannon Twins on a holiday card sent to this author.
There were lots of familiar faces….it seemed like everyone was a good friend of Hef, not just partygoers in general as in some year’s past.
Playboy models danced onstage.
I saw long-time Hef friend Hugh O’Brien in the room–looking much older on a cane but still dressed like Wyatt Earp. In the crowd were astronaut Buzz Aldrin and his wife Lois (just back from a skiing weekend in Deer Valley), Julie Newmar (who was slamming down jello shots–not a pretty look for Catwoman!), Lou Ferrigno (the “Incredible Hulk”), Kato Kaelin (who was proud to point out he had the same girlfriend, Amber, as he had at the last New Year’s Eve party).
Painted models for the NYE party.
Also there were Jane Russell (who’s 85 now with dark black hair), former Bears wide receiver Willie Gault, Jerry Buss (owner of the LA Lakers), Terry Moore (ex-paramour of Howard Hughes), Bridget Marquardt (looking very happy with boyfriend Nick Carpenter), Corey Feldman, Jose Canseco, Serria Tawan (Miss Nov. 2002), Dolores Del Monte (Miss March 1954), 25th Anniversary Playmate Candy Loving, Peggy McIntaggart (Miss Jan. 1990), 1976 PMOY Lillian Muller with her photographer boyfriend, Maurice Rinaldi, Cynthia Myers (Miss Dec. 1968), Julie McCullough (Miss Feb. 1986) and Victoria Valentino (Miss Sept. 1963) among many others. Even Hef’s high school sweetheart, Betty, was there!
Blurry pic of “All the way” Ray Anthony, now 103. The last living member of the Glenn Miller Band.
The beautiful young servers and dancers were all body-painted and, if you recall, this is how Hef met Kendra. I think many of these young girls have similar dreams and when I asked one of them about the process, she said master body-painter, Mark Frazier, sends out a casting call to various agencies around town and then the girls audition.
But the final selections are made by Hef himself. We met a gorgeous, sexy girl, Kristy Ann, who has been body painted 4 times for Playboy parties….you can certainly see why!
She told me the girls make $400 for the event and this was her comment about the party, “I think this New Year’s Eve party was fantastic! More low key than most of the parties I’ve attended but that made it more intimate and exclusive.”
Willie Gault and wife Suzan.
1954 Playmate Dolores Del Monte (who attends many Playboy parties) had this to say, “It was completely different from any I’ve been to in 12 years. It had a homey, family feel to it.” I agree on all counts….(Only 300 guests were invited to this year’s party.)
Nearer to midnight everyone took to the dance floor and a rap group took over the mics. The Twins and several other beautiful ladies took to the stage, began dancing, and then the balloons dropped.
Hef’s brother Keith was seen kissing a beautiful woman and all around there were tears and hugs. No one wanted to leave and the party lasted until 3:30 AM! Another year had passed at the Playboy Mansion and all was right in Hef’s world!
Welcome to 2010!
Hef’s son Cooper, hosting his first NYE post-Hef at the Culver Hotel Dec. 31, 2017.
Here are some great ideas for NYE this year! Chicago’s favorite lakefront destination is pulling out all the stops to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in style. On New Year’s Eve, Navy Pierwill transform into a hub of music, dining, family-friendly fun and festive revelry, capped off by its iconic midnight fireworks over Lake Michigan. From high-energy concerts and elegant parties to cozy lodge gatherings and early celebrations for families, there’s truly something for everyone at “the People’s Pier.” Check out all the offerings here on the website!
Navy Pier, great and NYE and always. (Navy Pier photo)
I had such a great time chatting with the fabulous John St. Augustine (my podcast co-host/producer and so much more) who filled in for Joan Esposito on WCPT 820 Progressive Radio. Please listen here for the Dec. 26 segment.
This year, Giordano Dance Company will honor Sandy and Lee Golub at its always-fabulous Studio 63 Legacy Ball. The event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21 at the Ravenswood Event Center. GDC is America’s premier Jazz Dance Company, now in its 63rd year! Please join us! For tickets and more details, click here!
Not much else happening at this time of the year on the nonprofit front. I guess everybody needs a break- to rest, reassess and plan for all the exciting events coming in 2026. And you can guess who will be there to share all this fun with YOU!
Thank you so much for reading, subscribing and, hopefully, sharing Candid Candace, Chicago’s first and longest running lifestyle blog!
Wintrust Mag Mile Light Parade as seen from Enjoy Illinois bus. (Candace pic)
From the dazzling displays in the West Loop to the twinkling trees in the Gold Coast, every neighborhood, from Downtown to Boystown, South Loop to Wicker Park, wraps itself in a blanket of light and joy.
I like to think of myself as the ultimate holiday light superfan, and in my opinion, no city shines quite like this one. Whether you’re after festive markets, cozy igloo dining or just that crisp winter sparkle in the air, Chicago delivers the season’s magic in every color and every corner. No matter what you celebrate, there’s a glow here for everyone. Wishing you a season that’s truly Merry & Bright! Merry Christmas!
Service Club Holiday Luncheon co-chairs Debi Catenacci, Karen Peters and Lezley Hodes.
Chicago’s philanthropic and social communities gathered in festive spirit for the annual Service Club of Chicago Holiday Luncheon, held in the elegant surroundings of the Union League Club of Chicago Dec. 9. The luncheon, a cherished seasonal tradition, seamlessly combined holiday celebration with a commitment to giving back, highlighting the Service Club of Chicago’s mission of supporting high-impact nonprofit organizations across the region.
Kathy Mondelli, Richard Boykin (running for 7th Congressional seat), Sherrill Bodine and Irene Mojica.
Under the theme “The Season to Sparkle,” the luncheon welcomed guests from across the city’s civic, nonprofit, business and cultural circles. Co-chaired by Debi Catenacci, Lezley Hodes and Karen Peters, the event unfolded in a beautifully transformed ballroom, where gorgeous holiday décor, from festive floral arrangements to twinkling seasonal accents to a ginormous tree, set an elegant and joyful tone.
Adding to the celebration were live performances by Denise Tomasello, whose spirited vocals led guests through classic holiday favorites, with sing-a-longs encouraging everyone to join in. The lively atmosphere underscored the sense of community and shared purpose that defines the Service Club of Chicago.
A festive afternoon for fun and fundraising!
A highlight of the luncheon was the curated 18-vendor marketplace, featuring jewelry, candles, holiday décor and other gift-ready items, allowing attendees to support local artisans while contributing to the cause.
Lauren Lein, incoming SC president Sally Jo Pfaff, Kathy Piccone and friends.
Mary Lasky and Pam Capitanini.
More importantly, proceeds from the luncheon, approximately $90,000, directly benefit nonprofit initiatives, with this year’s charitable focus including Share Our Spare, which provides essential items to children ages 0–5 throughout the Chicago area. Nearly 200 attendees were encouraged to bring toys and gifts, reinforcing the event’s dual mission of celebration and service.
Set against the historic elegance of the Union League Club, the Service Club of Chicago Holiday Luncheon demonstrated how philanthropy and festive cheer can go hand in hand. The SC is one of the oldest nonprofits in Chicago. Congrats to the members on all their good work.
The fabulous Canning family, with Rita and John, in front. (Lifelong WINGS’ supporters)
This year’s fundraising supports the Board’s $9 million commitment to Advanced Therapeutics at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute. The innovative program focuses on cellular and genetic therapies that target the root causes of disease, a cutting-edge approach that could transform the future of pediatric medicine.
Tori Tejeda, Jackie DesMarteau, Megan Munch and Ally Witt.
More than 450 parents, grandparents, children and teens filled the Grand Ballroom at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on Sunday, Dec. 14, for Sweet Home Chicago, the beloved holiday fundraiser that had become a cornerstone of support for families fleeing domestic violence. The event, in its 22nd year, benefited WINGS’ two safe houses, often the first place of refuge for women and children escaping abusive homes.
This year’s celebration, supported largely by young families, had already raised more than $720,500 as of early December. Since its founding in 2004, Sweet Home Chicago had generated more than $14 million to sustain WINGS’ safe houses and related services.
Exquisite decor by Kehoe Designs was left up after a wedding the night before. What a lucky break!
Honorary co-chairs Rita and John Canning were joined by host committee co-chairs Maria Braham and Shea Mausser in leading the festive fundraiser, which blended childhood magic with a powerful philanthropic mission. The event drew more than 200 youngsters and teens along with 250 adults, all gathering to ensure safe, stable homes for families in crisis.
WINGS’ President/CEO Rebecca Darr (center) with husband Joe Darr (2nd from R), Josh Hale and Jessica Canning.
Children attending Sweet Home Chicago enjoyed a full slate of holiday activities, including decorating gingerbread houses, creating ornaments, dancing to the music of Ralph’s World and posing for family portraits. Santa and Mrs. Claus were on hand for visits, while animatronic displays of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Snowman and an Elf, courtesy of Tekky Design, added an extra dose of wonder.
The beautiful Tarver family. Curtis Tarver II is Ill. State Rep. (25th).
Guests also relaxed with Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs, a favorite among children, while balloon artist Dale the Balloon Dude created wearable designs throughout the morning.
Katie Green, Shea Mausser and Melissa Canning.
The event took place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with peak activity between 10:30 a.m. and noon, in the Four Seasons’ Grand Ballroom at 120 E. Delaware Place.
Beyond the holiday cheer, the cause remained urgent. During its fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, WINGS provided services and care for 544 children, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Ninety-three percent of those children reported understanding that the violence they experienced was not their fault, and 97 percent said they knew what steps to take to feel safe. In the same period, WINGS provided immediate shelter to 416 children and adults and delivered more than 12,000 hours of services.
Founded in 1985, WINGS is Illinois’ largest nonprofit domestic violence agency. In addition to operating two safe houses, the organization supported families as they transitioned to long-term stability through more than 39 transitional homes and apartments and 95 rapid rehousing units managed in partnership with the City of Chicago.
Andrea Georgantas, Debra Cafaro, Megan Figura and Jennifer Beeson (co-chair)
Chicago’s philanthropic and business communities came together for the Children’s Research Fund’s Children’s Ball, themed Be the Spark. Hosted at the Hilton Chicago Dec. 6, the black-tie event raised funds for pediatric research at Lurie Children’s Hospital.
Nicole and George Karkalis.
The evening began with a cocktail reception in the Grand Ballroom where guests mingled over champagne and hors d’oeuvres. A student choir from St. Nicholas of Tolentine School performed on the Grand Staircase, setting the tone for the night. Guests were led to the International Ballroom by a lively horn line and student drumline, where the Gold Coast All Stars kicked off a high-energy dance set before dinner.
Student choir from St. Nicholas of Tolentine Schoolserenaded guests as they arrived.
Co-chairs Jen and Gerald Beeson and Jenni Sorenson and John Holmes welcomed attendees. Dr. Tom Shanley, president and CEO of Lurie Children’s, and Meredith Callison, chair of CRF, emphasized the impact of the organization’s work, which has raised more than $125 million since 1951.
With John Robak and Chuck.
The program featured an emotional highlight: a video on Emmanuel, a young patient whose treatment underscores the promise of advanced therapeutics, followed by remarks from Emmanuel himself.
By 10 p.m., formalities concluded, and guests danced the night away in the International Ballroom while enjoying dessert and coffee in the adjoining lounge. With corporate contributions surpassing $2 million and individual donations exceeding $1.3 million prior to the ball, this year’s event set a new record in the Children’s Ball’s 74-year history.
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier will make all your holiday dreams come alive!
Chicago’s most beloved holiday tradition is back! Winter WonderFesthas returned to Navy Pier through January 4, inviting guests into an immersive indoor holiday experience filled with festive fun, dazzling décor and seasonal magic.
Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest- an immersive holiday experience through Jan. 4
This year’s event comes to life with an exciting blend of new attractions and returning favorites. Visitors can enjoy live music performances at the Winter Wonder Stage, where cheerful sounds bring extra warmth and energy to the space. Families and guests of every age will find something to enjoy, from the spins of Zero Gravity to the charm of the kiddie train and the rush of towering slide, there is fun around every corner.
Guests enjoying ice-skating on The Verizon | Google Pixel Ice Rink.
Ice skating remains at the heart of Winter WonderFest, and this year, guests can glide across The Verizon | Google Pixel Ice Rink in a bright, welcoming holiday setting. With festive scenes and glowing attractions all around, guests can celebrate the season by reliving cherished memories and creating joyful new ones.
The magic of Winter Wonderfest- not to be missed through Jan. 4!
As an added bonus, each ticket includes a ride on the iconic Centennial Wheel, offering sweeping viewsof Navy Pier’s holiday lights and Chicago’s winter skyline.
Whether you’re welcoming relatives from out of town, planning a weekend outing with family, or simply seeking a cheerful break from the cold, Winter WonderFest continues to capture the spirit and sparkle of the season. (To learn more and get your tickets, click here!)
Darvin and team join forces to raise $925, 831 for Lurie Children’s Radiothon.
Darvin Furniture & Mattress once again stepped up for families in need, partnering with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital and iHeartMedia Chicago for the 5th annual Lurie Children’s Radiothon December 11. The all-day holiday broadcast, heard across six Chicago radio stations, raised $925,831 to support lifesaving care for the hospital’s young patients and their families.
Darvin President Will Harris visits with kids in the Family Room, newly transformed by Darvin and Flexsteel.
The Radiothon introduced listeners to first-hand stories of courage, medical breakthroughs and the resilience of the children cared for at Lurie. Every dollar raised will help fuel research and provide essential family support programs.
Members of Darvin’s team work the phones for cancer research at Lurie’s.
This year, Darvin Furniture & Mattress and Flexsteel transformed a space inside the hospital into the Lurie Holiday Family Room, a warm, cozy environment where families receiving treatment can relax, meet on-air personalities and take special holiday photos as part of their Radiothon experience. Darvin President Will Harris greeted several of the children and families there, many who were interviewed live by iHeartMedia DJs throughout the day.
Darvin’s Barb Harrington and Charlie Dwyer.
iHeartMedia Chicago’s popular on-air talent broadcast from the hospital to inspire listeners to call in or donate online. Darvin sent 10 associates and partners to help staff the phone banks and take donations. And during the Radiothon’s Power Hour—from 3 to 4 p.m.—Darvin matched all donations, doubling the impact of every gift made during that time.
The six participating iHeartMedia Chicago stations were: 93.9 Holiday LITE FM, 103.5 KISS FM, 107.5 WGCI, V103, Inspiration 1390 and Rock 95.5.
Together, Darvin, Lurie Children’s and iHeartMedia Chicago are making the holidays brighter for families facing some of their toughest moments and giving the community a chance to join them in making a difference.
The “tweaked” Joffrey Nutcracker is a must-see through Dec. 28. (Cheryl Mann photo)
Opening night of The Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” always feels like the start of something magical — and this year’s performance did not disappoint. From the moment I entered the theatre, the air was festive: mothers and daughters in matching outfits, elegant evening gowns, men in suits and ties, and the gentle hum of excited chatter as families arrived, many with children in tow. Even though Christopher Wheeldon’s production has become a holiday tradition since 2016, you could feel that same sense of wonder and anticipation as ever.
We came with reservations — longtime fans of the earlier version by Robert Joffrey, determined to stay loyal. But the moment the new production began, set in Chicago on the eve of the 1893 World’s Fair, we were completely captivated. What followed was familiar – snow, nutcrackers, ballet- yet entirely new and surprisingly breathtaking.
It’s clear one of the strengths of The Joffrey Ballet is its refusal to stand still. Year after year the company tweaks and improves — from richer costumes to more elaborate lighting, from flat scenic cutouts to deep, three-dimensional sets. In this version, the once-cardboard golden “Statue of the Republic” has become a dramatic, multi-dimensional centerpiece — a tribute to the original 65-foot statue erected for the 1893 Exposition.
The (magical) Nutcracker.
Even the lighting is reinvented, with projections that blur the line between stage and theatre, drawing the audience into Marie and Franz’s dreamlike journey.
Amanda Assucena and Hyuma Kiyosawa. (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
The performances themselves were flawless. The dancers embodied their roles with emotional depth and technical brilliance. On opening night, “The Great Impresario” (portrayed by Stefan Gonçalvez) and the mother-sculptress (played by Gayeon Jung) moved with tenderness and flair — and the new ending left a lasting impression, beautifully underlining themes of gratitude, family, and the true spirit of Christmas. The exotic dance scene, featuring “Arabian dancers” Jeraldine Mendoza and Dylan Gutierrez and “Buffalo Bill” (performed by Valentino Moneglia Zamora) was sultry and captivating — and even included a spectacular, perfectly executed lasso trick that had the audience holding its breath.
The children’s cast was equally immaculate — not a single misstep. The charming “Walnuts” (this year played by Mabel Baker, Noral Cuevas, Mairah Lopez, Mckenzie Martin, Lulu Verma and Kaylie Yong) warmed hearts throughout the house. And in the grand lobby, a towering Christmas tree — built from colorful boxes and ribbons, topped with a Joffrey Ballet banner — completed the festive, fairytale atmosphere.
The Nutcracker ensemble. (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
From the first step you take through the door of the Lyric Opera House, you’re transported into a magical world — one that felt timeless, warm, and so very alive. Congratulations to The Joffrey Ballet for once again surprising and delighting us, proving that even a beloved tradition can still feel new.
(The Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” runs through Dec. 28 at the Lyric Opera House. Tickets and more info available here.)
Host/friend Paul Iacono (middle) with his adorable family- Jennifer Goodwin, Jay and Mimi Goodwin.
There is something so special about an intimate dinner party. And, this year’s award for BEST DINNER PARTY definitely goes to the host with the most Paul Iacono. He hosted an elegant party in his penthouse in the sky (newly and beautifully refurbished by him and his friend Kadmiel Christmas) that would’ve made Cole Porter weep.
Chic guests Julie Barrish, Jennifer Sutton Brieva and Whitney Christmas.
With a towering, sparkling tree and chic decor, it was a magical night for the lucky friends in attendance. Dinner started with a baked goat cheese tart, a choice of beef tenderloin au poivre or halibut meuniere with seasoned black rice and green beans Amandine.
Dessert was a Paris brest (almond ring, praline creme mouseeline) and fresh seasonal berries. Toasts were made, thanks were given and every guest left with a miniature, live pine tree with ornaments and lighting included. Thank you Paul for your kindness (and great taste)!
Rhonda Sanderson, Greg Thompson and George Iacono. With birthday girl Bobbi Panter (middle, front) surrounded by friendsKate Prange, Kathy Piccone, Kristine Kinder and Jennifer Sutton Brieva.
And speaking of chic holiday parties, SC outgoing President Bobbi Panter and friends celebrated her birthday at the Ritz where the decor was almost as sparkling as the smiles. 50 or so friends toasted this beloved friend and even Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas made a surprise visit, much to the delight of all. Champagne corks popped, pizza and fries were served, LOTS of photo memories were taken and love was all around. Happy birthday dear Bobbi!
The Bobbi Panter Fan Club celebrating her birthday at the Ritz. R.R. #1, a magical, chaotic store at 814 N. Ashland.
You would never even know it was a store by walking past. It looks empty and dark inside, until of course, you step through the door. Located at 814 N. Ashland, R.R. #1 (Rural Route number 1) is meant to resemble an old-time country store and it does. Loaded from top to bottom and side to side with the most unique and magical assortment of gifts, the space looks like Willy Wonka lives there and I loved it. The chaos on the store is not for everyone, but I thrive in this kind of atmosphere, so all good for me! The store hours are Mon.- Sat. 11- 6pm and Sun 12-5. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
Gift store, R.R. #1, an old apothecary at 814 N. Ashland. Makeup guru Claudio Riaz giving Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas a glow-up.
Everyone’s favorite make-up artist, Claudio Riaz, is at it again! Glamming up all of Chicago for the holidays. His makeup is hands-down my favorite as are his amazing brushes. I happened to pop in Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue when he was giving Cook County Treasurer/Mayor Maria Pappas a glow-up. Fabulous all around! Love him! Visit him at NM Mich Ave and tell him Candace sent you!
A gentle reminder about my friend/attorney Richard Boykinwho is running for the 7th Congressional seat vacated by Danny Davis. No matter which side of the aisle you’re on, he is a candidate for all who love Chicago. He’s smart, kind, and more importantly, loaded with common sense. Please consider him in the voting booth on March 17. (Learn more about him here!)
With Richard Boykin, Laurie Dimakos and Betsy Shepherd.
In this lead-up to the holidays and Christmas, I want to wish all of you the happiest and healthiest season yet. I hope you find yourself surrounded with loved ones, lots of pie and, of course, Pinot Grigio! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, sharing and being a part of this community. If you’re enjoying the ride, please invite your friends to sign up for Candid Candace, Chicago’s first and longest running lifestyle blog! Here’s to celebrating together for many years to come!
There is no better antidote for Chicago's winters than a trip to a warm climate. Chuck and I were lucky this year to have an extended vacay in Florida, a week in Hobe Sound with my sister-in-law and then two glorious weeks in Palm Beach. The first word that comes to mind about being in
With Leslie Hindman and Chuck at Trevini restaurant, Palm Beach.
Florida is "liberating." Restaurants are open, people are walking the streets with smiles on their faces, churches are holding services and I didn't see one boarded up store.
The manicured perfection of Palm Beach.
Granted, people are still masked and practicing social distancing but it seems less fear-based than Chicago and more common sense-based there. I'm not surprised that people live longer in Florida, no dangerous icy sidewalks, more physical activity and a LOT more vitamin D! In a perfect world, I would divide my time between the two but that's not doable so I will
At Pizza al Fresco, PB, with Kim Renk, Greg Dryer, Leslie Hindman and Chuck.
just enjoy every minute we're away and keep those memories top of mind when I receive weather updates
Beauty along A1A.
from Chiberia. Hobe Sound is beautiful, quiet but lovely. You can actually hear the birds in the trees and the gentle sounds of kids playing pickleball from Loblolly Pines Golf Club. We spent time with my sister-in-law, Nancy Steinwald, who lost her husband Dr. Os Steinwald a year ago. It
Kitchy City Diner in West Palm Beach.
was bittersweet as there was really nothing we could do to ease her pain except be there for her. So, we went to dinners and had a memorable brunch at Harry and the Natives, a restaurant that seemed to be plucked
Harry & the Natives in Hobe Sound, a Jimmy Buffet inspired restaurant.
straight out of Jimmy Buffet's "Cheeseburger in Paradise" song. After the end of our stay in Hobe Sound, we rented a racy red Mustang convertible and headed for Palm Beach where our dear friend Leslie Hindman was gracious enough to invite us for a stay. Her home, in the heart of Palm Beach, had just been sold within 4 hours of being on the market! Her new home is even closer to the ocean and so beautiful. She has impeccable taste and
At Renato's, PB, with Ken Norgan, Leslie Hindman and Chuck.
vision so we can't wait to see what she does with this latest acquisition. When we left, it was already Architectural Digest perfect. As smart as she is in her auction business, I think her true calling lies in real estate. I think it's also a passion of hers….We had so many
With Christine Schott, Palm Beach Social Diary author.
dinners at wonderful restaurants that I lost count….but, as for the extra pounds Chuck and I gained, sadly I do know that number. There is so much happening in Palm Beach now. It's not the sleepy little town I
The Breakers which, sadly, appears to now have office furniture for the lobby decor.
remember from our first visit years ago. In part, due to the influx of NYC restaurants that have recently relocated there. Our favorite, Swifty's, is also the most beautiful with old world charm combined with rich, modern touches. The hotel it lives in, The Colony (155 Hammon Ave), is steps from Worth Avenue and was established in 1947. After Andrew Wetenhall (Andrew's family were the hotel's previous
Peace and quiet in Hobe Sound.
owners) and wife Sarah purchased the hotel in 2016, Sarah discovered a mid-century postcard featuring the hotel's original lobby which was painted with a mural titled "The Early Days in Palm Beach." The mural inspired a partnership with the famed house of de Gournay, known for exquisite, hand painted
One of my favorite shops in PB, F. S. Henemader.
wallpapers. Kemble Interiors created the decor and the place is even more beautiful now with the wallpaper hiding secret meanings about the owners and its history, including a sweet drawing of the couple's King Charles Spaniel. Swifty's founder, Robert Caravaggi, has created another hit here and his presence makes the restaurant hum with excitement day and night. (The Colony contacted
Before dinner at Club Colette with Leslie Hindman, Nancy Traylor and friend.
him in 2019 asking him to open there after the NYC outpost closed in 2016.) On this visit, I was lucky to dine here on a couple of occasions, once
Chuck, dreaming on Worth Avenue.
for dinner around the pool (with its dramatic views) with Leslie and Chuck and, on another day, lunch with friends Kim Renk, Sharon Bush and Fran Weissler. Fran is 93 years young and a real hoot. She regaled us with her stories in show business with her husband Barry (they are Broadway producers with over 9 Tony Awards to their credit!–Pippin, La Cage aux Folles, Sweet Charity, Wonderful Town, Grease, Cabaret–you get the picture). Their first production on Broadway, "Othello," scored their first Tony Award and starred Christopher Plummer and James Earl Jones. The story of how she snagged Plummer for the role could be made into its own movie. Anyway, we also dined at another former NYC hotspot, Le Bilboquet (245 Worth Ave.), that's also relocated to PB. This was a slightly different story….Even though the space was heart-breakingly chic, the service and prices were not. Our waiter took my order and then walked away without even taking Chuck's! It is a new spot, but at these prices, there should be no room for errors like this.
La Goulue, Palm Beach, another NYC transplant to PB.
Anyway, I hope they can up their service game as it is a lovely spot. The third hotspot transplanted from NYC is the newly opened La Goulue at 288 S. County Rd. This restaurant
Batch, a Southern-style restaurant in Palm Beach on bustling Clematis Street.
is so true to the original that you feel like you could be at the one still located in NYC. The
Another great home decor shop in PB, Jennifer Garrigues.
French cuisine is impeccable and delicious. The Wine Channel's Jessica Altieri suggested a waiter there that she knew, Fernando, who came from the Four Seasons PB (which was entirely taken over by Ken Griffin's Citadel corp. during quarantine!) Anyway, the whole evening was a delight there and I highly recommend it. In a Palm Beach Social Diary article, "All Eyes on Palm Beach," one of my favorite writers, Christine Schott, said, "Booking a reservation in Palm Beach has now become a sport." I agree, it was difficult at times, but if you're nice
The one and only Colony Hotel with its beautiful, new de Gournay wallpaper.
on the phone, sometimes reservations do open up. Lol! And not only is the restaurant scene heating up, but the real estate market is insane. In a Palm Beach Daily News article (the "shiny sheet"), the cover story was
Le Bilboquet, looking down its tunneled entryway.
about an estate at 320 Island Road that sold in January for $26M and then was back on the market in less than a month for $45M! Miami Realtors Association stated, "Palm Beach County luxury home sales spiked 83% in Q3, of 2020." A fun note about the "shiny sheet", I was talking to the check-out lady at Green's Pharmacy and she gave me a little history about this revered newspaper that is now all plain, white paper. She
Driving A1A, the best….
said, "Back in the day, when women wore white gloves, they didn't want to get ink on them so the paper was glossy to avoid newsprint, aka the "shiny sheet." So, now you know. Some other highlights included the newly opened White Elephant Palm Beach (280 Sunset Ave.) a super-chic, super-
With Leslie Hindman and Chuck at her new PB house.
pricey luxury boutique hotel (with Lola 41 restaurant, which friends Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas LOVED); The Ben (part of the Marriott's Autograph Collection) at 251 N. Narcissus in West Palm Beach. Its rooftop restaurant, Spruzzo, has breathtaking views of PB; Pizza al Fresco (where a famous descendant of President John Adams resides in the former Addison Mizner home with his pet pig, wife and an assortment of other pets), 14 Via Mizner; a couple of favorite design stores, F.S. Henemader, 316 S. County Road, and Jennifer Garrigues, 308 Peruvian); Batch, a fabulous Southern-style restaurant in West Palm Beach at 223 Clematis; Henry's Palm Beach (owned by The Breakers) at 229 Royal Poinciana Way is too cold and stark, we walked out; City Diner, a charming throwback diner in West Palm Beach at 3400 S. Dixie Hwy.; Trevini, a chic restaurant at 223 Sunset Ave.; Palm Beach Grill at Royal Poinciana Plaza doesn't have the pizzazz it once had; and of course Renatos, at 87 Via Mizner is perpetually elegant and chic.
Views from The Ben, a new hotel in West Palm Beach owned by the Marriott.
Our friend/designer Daniel Kinkade told us not to miss The Breakers this year. He wanted to know what I thought about its recent reno. I didn't like it at all. It looked like they replaced their plush, luxurious lobby furniture with stuff from IKEA. It was a horrible mix for this iconic, National Historic Landmark that deserves better. Thankfully, the magnificent carpet is still in place as are the luxurious floral arrangements that dot the vaulted lobby. This vacation was sorely needed. I'm sorry my blog is late because of it, but it gave us memories to last a lifetime and I hope some news you can use here. Special thanks, with love, to all of our friends (and my sister-in-law Nancy) who joined us, played with us and shared their homes. Forever grateful.
No restaurant in PB beats dining around the Colony's pool at Swifty's, our favorite hands down.
Dori and Lori, she knew everybody and they loved her.
Still can't believe she's gone. Dori Wilson was such a powerful light, every room she walked into she made it better. I met her
Dori Wilson, one of the best kind.
when I first moved to Chicago in the early 70s. She was a Chicago star even then and she kindly took me under her wing, introducing me to all the important people. She even had me in the front row at Operation Push headquarters to meet Rev. Jesse Jackson. Everyone who knew her, loved her. We even talked about going into the public relations business together. Don't get me wrong, she wasn't all warm and fuzzy. Whatever was on her mind, she let you know. She was a "no bull-sh_t" kind of a girl for sure. And I admired that. She never pretended to be something she wasn't and didn't want her friends to be that way either. She gravitated towards people who were similar–real, honest, hard working and good-hearted–she loved Michael Kutza who she saw regularly, the late Victor Skrebneski who photographed her
With her dear friends Michael Kutza and Victor Skrebneski.
often and her dearest friend Lee Blackwell Baur, who created a foundation (with other friends) in
Dori during her successful modeling days.
her honor, The Dori Wilson Foundation. This foundation will support some of the many charities she lent her heart and time to. She loved and raised her nephew Travis and always shared his achievements like a proud mom. We were both Chihuahua lovers and she called hers, Taco and Belle, they were her "babies." But as much as I thought I knew her, I realized after reading her obit (written lovingly by another dear friend of hers, Tarrah Cooper Wright), that there was so much I didn't know about this most remarkable woman. Here's an excerpt: "Dori Wilson was born to Fannie Brown Wilson and William Wilson on October 15, 1943, in Winona, Mississippi. She spent the earliest years of her life smelling the honeysuckle bush on the side of the house,
Beautiful Dori.
walking uphill to school each morning, developing a fondness for fishing, and listening to the crickets as she lay in bed each night. When Dori was 7, the family moved to Hyde Park, Illinois, and then to Chicago’s bustling Washington Park neighborhood. Dori loved reading, tumbling and doing double-dutch, but would later remember always working—reupholstering chairs, finishing her homework and book reports early so she could draw and create art, and earning money by doing hair for the
Dori with friends Patrick Sheehan and Cheryl Coleman.
neighborhood ladies when she was just 9. For Dori, having a keen eye for beauty and a strong work ethic always came naturally. As a high school freshman at Hyde Park High School, Dori caught the bus to the Woolworth store at 43rd & Ellis, where she—age 14, not 16—had lied about her age to get a
Dori with former Mayor Harold Washington.
job. After high school, Dori attended Roosevelt University before working at Goldblatt’s on State Street, and then at Compton Advertising as a secretary and assistant producer. One day, while at a commercial shoot, Dori met a talent agent who suggested
Dori, always chic, even working….
that Dori shouldn’t just be behind the camera—she should be in front of it. Tall, thin and beautiful, Dori had all the makings of a model. She later remembered that while there were few models who looked like her at the time, she didn’t see that as a roadblock—she saw her uniqueness as an asset, and she was right. Dori was motivated by her inner drive to always go after what she wanted and to not take no as a final answer. But she also knew she was breaking barriers for other Black girls and women. As a dark-skinned Black woman, Dori felt that she always had to work harder, try harder, and aim higher than many of her peers because of the way things were stacked against her; Dori was determined to succeed against any obstacle, and she did. “I first saw Dori from afar when I was a teenager working in
Lee Blackwell Baur, Dori, Zorada Gowenlock and Deirdre Pratt.
a stock room on Oak Street,” said longtime friend and Ariel Investments Co. CEO/President Mellody Hobson. “When I raved about her to my mother, she told me that Dori was helping to change old-fashioned and highly conventional definitions of beauty. When I later met her as a young professional, we became instant friends. I often told her that when I looked at her face, I saw the face of my own mother. She was
Dori with Pam Capitanini and Myra Reilly.
quite special to many, including me.” In 1964, Dori became the first Black runway model in Chicago. She opened shows for Bonwit Teller, Marshall Field's, I. Magnin, Carson Pirie Scott and Saks and worked with acclaimed photographer and friend Victor Skrebneski. Around this time, people in the business told her to quit advertising and model full time. But Dori had too many
With Dori, Barb Samuels and friend.
ideas to just be a canvas on which other people painted their stories. In 1968, she joined Foote, Cone & Belding to work on their advertising project with Sears, Roebuck & Co, and in 1970, she was promoted to Director of Fashion and Casting. That same year, an appearance as a contestant on TV’s “The Dating Game” won her a trip to Italy and England. Dori
continued to split her time and modeled in numerous fashion shows, advertisements and events, including Gucci’s Fall 1970 campaign and the Dress Horsemen and Trophy Board Annual Benefit Fashion Spectacular
Dori featured in "My Start Story."
in 1975. She even served as the prototype for the first Black mannequin in Marshall Field’s and hosted her own public affairs talk show called “Memorandum” on WMAQ-TV. In 1980, Dori launched Dori Wilson & Associates. For 40 years, she served clients across a broad range of industries, crafting their messages and helping them reach new audiences. Her clients included the City of Chicago, Tiffany & Co., the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and many more. Dori never waited for the phone to ring; instead, she picked it up and asked for what she wanted. She was never scared of hearing “no.” She kept moving until she found the “yes.” Dori was committed to giving back to the community and served on the board of many organizations including the Harris Theater, The Council of Regents of Loyola University, PAWS Chicago, Chicago Workforce Board, Chicago International Film Festival, Columbia College, Brookfield Zoo, First Bank & Trust of Illinois, Board of Trustees of the Chicago Public Library, Girls Scouts of Chicago Association Board, and more. In interviews with The History Makers organization, Dori
Dori with Helen "Helpful" Melchior.
noted that while she got her work ethic from her father, she got her kindness from her mother—a quality she prized even more. She was asked many questions, but two in particular resonate today. How would you like to be remembered? “Dori was good and kind and did her best to help others,” she said. If Travis is watching this, what would you want him to know? “That I loved him and did the best I could, and that I’m very happy to have had him in my life.” Dori departed the world on February 1, 2021. She is survived by her nephew Travis Wilson, her brother William Thomas Wilson, Sr. and his spouse Joanna; her nephew Wil Wilson and his wife
Dori and Shauna Montgomery.
Kathy, grand-nieces Laura, Brittany and Taylor Wilson; first cousins Mary Elizabeth Hunt and her husband Colle, Bettie Ann Priester and her husband John; second cousins Maria Hunt, Lisa Hunt, Colle Hunt, Jr. and wife Janice and their children Naomi
Kate and Leslie Zentner with Dori.
and Isabel. She was preceded in death by parents Fannie Laura Brown and William (Willie) Wilson, sister Mamie Agusta Wilson, and half-sisters Georgia Jones and Dorothy Edwards. Dori's friend/philanthropist Lee Blackwell Baur, summed up her friend's remarkable life and presence, “Dori Wilson was a trailblazing woman and Chicago icon who brought a larger than life status to the many fundraising efforts and charitable organizations she touched. Her stunning beauty and unbridled energy put her in a distinctive category, touching the lives of so many including my own. Our 20-year friendship was one of mutual respect and undying love. We will honor Dori’s life with the creation of the Dori Wilson Foundation, which will support those organizations to which Dori so intimately gave her heart and soul.” You are greatly missed dear Dori.
Kudos to Sam Toia and the Illinois Restaurant Association for continuing to fight for our restaurants
Restaurateur Sam Sanchez, new IRA board chair.
and also for its exciting new honorees and board of directors! First off, congrats to Sam Sanchez, the newly elected chairman of the board. Sanchez most recently served as the IRA's First Vice Chairman and is the Founder and CEO of Third Coast Hospitality Group. In the mid-80s, Sam moved from his family's hometown in Sabinas Hidalgo, Mexico to start what is now an accomplished
Restaurant critic Phil Vettel, Lifetime Achievement honoree.
hospitality career in Chicago. In addition to his
Amanda Puck, Mariano's Director of Strategic Brand Development, accepted the Sara Rowe ProStart Company of the Year award on behalf of Mariano's.
restaurants, he also owns EMC Construction, a full-service construction company that handles renos of existing properties and new construction. In other IRA news, award recipients were announced in four categories: Restaurateur of the Year to Gregory Schulson, CEO of Burrito Beach and Lunan Corporation; Vendor of the Year to Gordon Food Service, Performance Foodservice, US Foods and Sysco; the Sara Rowe ProStart Company of the Year to Mariano's (accepted by Amanda Puck, Director of Strategic Brand Development) and a special Lifetime Achievement Award went to Phil Vettel, longtime food writer for the Chicago Tribune. Congrats to ALL!
Misericordia's Sister Rosemary Connelly and Lois Gates, Assistant Executive Director.
And, in the mean time, I'm receiving lots of encouraging event notices. I'm hopeful we'll be back in person soon at our beloved nonprofit events. On Feb.
Beloved philanthropists Diane and Richard Weinberg.
27, Cal's Angel's hosted a virtual fundraiser for pediatric cancer. The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted Norma Kamali as she discussed her new book, virtually, "I AM Invincible" on Feb. 25. Presenting sponsors were Liz Stiffel and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The Chicago Lighthouse hosted a Texas Hold 'Em poker tournament on Feb. 26 to raise funds for its mission of serving the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities. On February 26, Misericordia hosted "Heart of Gold: A Night at the Races" to support its services for children and adults with special needs. Girls in the Game celebrated its 26th anniversary, also on Feb. 26, of empowering girls and helping them build their confidence and social skills. More to come!
Join the dynamic ladies of The Service Club of Chicago on Monday, March 8, from 5-6 pm, CST. I'm so proud to host this tribute/Zoom party in honor of International Womens Day! Any donation of $25 or more will get you into the virtual party! Join us to help the SC carry on their 131 year mission of supporting those in need. (Click here to register/donate here)
Each spring, the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center hosts its signature event, the Humanitarian Awards Dinner. Now one of the largest fundraising dinners in the city of Chicago, this high profile event pays tribute to pillars in our community, Holocaust Survivors and highlights the Museum’s achievements. This year's dinner on Wednesday, March 10, will be a hybrid event with virtual and in-person (limited) programming. Honorees include Exelon Corporation, Scott Swanson (PNC Bank, Ill.) and Zev and Shifra Karkomi (posthumously, Survivor Legacy Award). Keynote speaker will be Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, former NBA star/activist. (For tickets and more info, click here!)
Porchlight Music Theatre will host "Chicago Sings Rock & Roll Broadway" virtually on Saturday, March 20. The honoree will be Tony Award winning actress Felicia P. Fields. The event will feature a who’s-who roster of Chicago’s own music theatre and cabaret favorites with all funds raised supporting the theatre's artistic and educational programming. (For tickets/details, click here!)
St. Patrick's High School, led by friend and president Joe Schmidt, is asking for your support of its virtual Shamrock Green & Gold Gala on Thursday, March 11. Funds will support its mission to provide educational experiences of the highest quality which enables young men to develop their highest potential as lifelong learners and assets to society and the Church. (For more info, click here)
Join the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum for some vintage, fashion fun on Tuesday, March 23 from 5:30 – 7 pm, CST! The webinar presentation will discuss the rich history of Bes-Ben hats, Chicago's Mad Hatter, alongside former costume curator of the Museum, Elizabeth Jachimowicz, and Nena Ivon.The first 40 registrants will receive a free set of Bes-Ben magnets! Details here!
And speaking of nonprofits, I was so proud to co-host,
Steak 48's Oliver Badgio and Agency H5's Kathleen Sarpy.
with Agency H5's Kathleen Sarpy, Pretty Powerful 3.0, a zoom party celebrating the city's philanthropic leaders. Nearly 70 women joined us for a virtual cocktail party sponsored by Steak 48 on February 9. Last year, we hosted the party at the restaurant but, this year, we were proud and grateful to be able to continue this tradition despite Covid. Four nonprofit
Some of the nearly 70 community leaders who joined Pretty Powerful 3.0.
leaders: Nancy Wright, CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago; Holly Buckendahl, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana; Lauren Schrero Levy, executive director of The Nora Project and Marilynn Gardner, CEO of Navy Pier, shared how their organizations had pivoted and adapted to the changes caused by the pandemic, as well as their hopes for the future. I was so excited to see so many familiar (powerful) faces, including Heather Owen (One Tail at a Time), Katie Law (PAWS Chicago),
More Pretty Powerful 3.0 participants.
Brenda Langstraat (Chicago Public Library), Mimi Plauche (Chicago International Film Festival), Joyce Winnecke (YWCA Metro Chicago), Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Shelley MacArthur (Old St. Pat's rep), Sandi Hartstein (The Joffrey Ballet), Rebecca Darr (WINGS) and SOOO many others! As a surprise at the end of the zoom party, Steak 48 (Oliver Badgio and Jeff Mastro, Steak 48 owner) provided participants with a dining gift certificate to the restaurant, located at 615 N. Wabash Ave., as a show of appreciation for their service to the Chicago community. I'm already looking forward to Pretty Powerful 4.0!! Thanks to all who participated and shared their plans for the future and told us how they coped in 2020. It was such an inspiring hour of hope and friendship! God Bless our Nonprofits!
power of a dog’s unconditional love. You’re invited to join TPAN and me on March 25 for a discussion featuring the author of "When Dogs Heal," Dr. Rob Garofalo, an HIV specialist whose practice centers on adolescents and LGBTQ youth. Join us as we discuss the book, share our life journeys—and, of course, talk about dogs! Dr. Rob will be joined by some of the people living with HIV who appear in the book, and by Julie Supple, TPAN’s programs director, who will discuss Paws N' Effect, TPAN’s program that brings together people living with HIV with a dog companion. When you purchase When Dogs Heal from Unabridged Bookstore either online or at their store, Unabridged will donate 20% of the book price to TPAN with all proceeds going directly to the Paws n’ Effect program, which helps find safe, forever homes for rescue dogs. “ Please sign up here and join us at 6 pm, CST, Thursday, March 25.
And she can cook too, Maria Pappas, Cook County Treasurer.
Hats off, again, to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. She had a standing O at the Polish Museum of America recently in honor of Pulaski Day. She gave this amazing speech (without notes, see below)) that left the audience wildly applauding. She is one of our city's most active politicians, always looking for ways to help we, the people. Recently, she and her team assembled a 234 page report describing the eye-popping trends of property tax growth in Cook County. She is sharing the data as a call to action for voters who have sat on the sidelines while taxes have continued to skyrocket. "The residences and commercial owners, who do not vote have allowed this to happen because they don't hold anybody accountable. I want to inspire people to get registered," she said. Amen to that Maria! On another Maria note, catch her WVON radio show every Monday (1690 AM) when she hosts "Black Houses Matter," a talk show about helping homeowners access unclaimed property tax refunds. Mayor Pappas? Sounds good to me!
There is lots of exciting news on the Chicago Star Media front! First off, I'm thrilled to announce that I've been named Contributing Editor to this wonderful group of papers that I like to call "a love letter to Chicago." I love its mission, which is mine too, to deliver positive news you can use with a hyper-local bent. In other words, a paper about Chicago,
With CSM publisher/founder Elaine Hyde. (Who's also a physicist!)
for Chicago! Our first rebranded issue as Chicago Star debuted on March 1 and it's a hit, I'm proud to say! (Read it all here) We have a brand new writer, Bridget McGuire,
Gibson's Restaurant Group are Chicago Star fans! (Thank you Kathy O'Malley Piccone!)
whose story "The Pandemic, Sales and the Single Girl", will make you laugh out loud! And I'm pretty proud of my column in this new issue too, "Wedding Bell DOs", with fabulous love stories and advice and tips from couples you know from around town. They include Gibson's Restaurant Group's Peg and Steve Lombardo, Izzy Idonije and Jatnna Toribio, WGN-TV's Ana Belaval and Steve Vihon, "Windy City Live's" Val Warner and Elijah "Jobba" Maxey, The Joffrey Ballet's Victoria Jaiani and Temur Suluashvili, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Cheryl and Albert Grace, Marcus Riley and Jude Fitzgerald, Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis, award winning producer/director/writers Robert and Leslie Zemeckis, Agency H5's
Chicago Star Advisory Board member Howard Tullman and Gertie.
Kathleen and Chris Sarpy and more. These couples shared some great tips on making, keeping and building relationships with some surprising admissions. (Read story here!) We are building a family at Chicago Star and want you to be a part of it! Don't miss an issue, subscribe now
Chicago Star Advisory Board member Bonnie Tullman (and her Remi) are fans!
here! Special thanks to our exciting, STELLAR new Advisory Board members too: Howard Tullman, Sargent McCormick, Bonnie Spurlock, Sherren Leigh, Paul Iacono, Leslie Hindman, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Michael Kutza, Robert Zentner, Alex Pissios and Tom Kehoe. We are SOOOO grateful for your support! In more exciting news, Chicago Star was the featured article in this week's must-read Robert Feder's column. (Read it here)
Love and thanks to all of the romantic couples here who shared their stories with me!
I hate sharing bad news but it doesn't look like our city's convention business is coming back, this year at least. The Chicago Dental Society has cancelled its annual February meeting. Since March, more than 200 trade shows have been scrapped according to info from the Illinois Restaurant Association. These shows were expected to generate more than 2 billion for Chicago. Other cancellations include the National Restaurant Association show, the Inspired Home show and even Macy's annual, greatly anticipated Flower Show display at the State Street store. On a brighter front, it appears that the Chicago Auto Show is still working on returning this year. Fingers crossed for better convention news coming soon.
I started spring cleaning early this year. Saw a moth and freaked. I'm finished now with one walk-in closet and will soon be heading for the others. It was a bittersweet walk down memory lane. I'm a saver so I loathe throwing anything away, especially things with sentimental value. I had to decide what to do with a lot of pieces of clothing that had special memories for me. I have the top I wore when Chuck and I got our marriage license; the gown I wore to my first Joffrey Ballet Gala; the gown I wore when I co-chaired a Service Club Gala; the cocktail dress I wore when I was honored by the Chicago Lighthouse; the short red
I started a little early.
dress I wore to the opening of the Modern Wing, the fancy custom top, created by an Art Institute student, I wore when I was inducted into the BizBash Hall of Fame…well, you get the idea. They all hold such special memories for me and even looking at them makes all of those memories and occasions come back in a rush. But, I have to grow up and out of this habit. I got rid of them all and I feel 20 pounds lighter (kinda). I got rid of everything except the top I wore for getting our marriage license. That will stay.
With the weather getting warmer and restaurant restrictions becoming more reasonable, I'm almost giddy with excitement. We get our second shot recently and, after that, I can't wait to go bar hopping and cram myself into crowded elevators. (Totally kidding here) But it's fun to think about reaching a better place in our city and country….(prayer hands here).
Thanks for tuning in and for your patience with my late blog! If not a subscriber, please sign up here!
Love, as always,
Candace
(Send any info, questions or comments to Candace@CandidCandace.com)
Plus: Goodman Theatre's "Starstruck" Gala; Virgil Abloh hits Chi; NY State of Mind; Getaway2Give, a unique idea for nonprofits; OUT of Office celebrates a sellout; Nikki Haley and our Dominic honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center; Project Style Chips in for Charity; NYC's celeb-filled Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic; Design Museum of Chicago sets the stage; Sunda celebrates 10; A Blueprint for Quinton; Nan has her day; Everyone's favorite public servant; ULBGC's excellent Wine Dinner; Children's Place Assn.'s "Enchantment Under the Sea"; National Hellenic Museum gala; Service Club's "Day on the Terrace" (do you have your tickets?); Randolph Street Market's "Red, White & Cool"; AIBI Revs UP!; BEST street festivals; Darling videos and SO much more!
Richard Driehaus with winning designers Edna St. Louis, Molly Quinn and Carlos Osuna.
Excellence on April 26. Themed Infinite Possibilities, the cocktail party and runway show competition highlighted the talents and innovative collections of 24
Wendy Krimins (GM Neiman Marcus Mich Ave) with Sue Wyderka.
top emerging fashion design students in Chicago. The participating fashion and design schools were Columbia College Chicago, Dominican University, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This 18th annual event was hosted at Chicago Vintage Motor Carriage, a unique
Judges Sylwia Wilczynska, Timothy Long and Chloe Mendel.
venue that provided more than 300 guests exclusive viewing access to a private collection of classic American cars. Media personalities Linda Yu and Sylvia Perez returned as emcees of the
Emcees Linda Yu and Sylvia Perez with Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions).
elegant fundraiser which raised more than $140,000 and included a pre-party with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, live entertainment and a live auction. The dynamic fashion show celebrated the incredible talent of local fashion design students and featured ready-to-wear, evening wear, outerwear, sportswear, bridal and wearable art collections. A
Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steven Stryker.
judging panel of industry insiders (Timothy Long, Director, Senior Specialist of Couture & Luxury Accessories, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers; Chloé Mendel, Creative Director/Co-Founder, Maison Atia and Sylwia Wilcynska, Owner/Fashion Designer,
Design by Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award winner Edna St. Louis.
Sylwia Designs) scored the collections by taking a detailed look at the designs including intricate sewing techniques, fabric selection and overall excellence in garment construction. The first place winner, Molly Quinn from Columbia College, took home $7,500 and a prize package including the production of a look-book, an apparel display at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, and mentoring and media opportunities. Her
Angelina Lee, Yoshi Fredisdorf, Justin Wong and Chloe Park.
winning collection, An Abnormal Condition of Sleep, featured digitally printed textiles, 3D printing, foil prints and handmade detailing. Additional cash honorariums were awarded to second place winner Edna St. Louis ($5,000), the School of the Art Institute of Chicago; third place
Tracey Tarantino receives an Achievement Award for 15 years as runway producer. YEAH!
winner Carlos Osuna ($2,500), Columbia College Chicago. Honorable mentions and $1,000 were awarded to Claire Groppe and Shaylin Thurston, Dominican University; Victor Delgado, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago; JunHoPark and Abigail Shute, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. The 2018 first place
Designs by first place winner Molly Quinn.
winner, Lindsay Holeso, presented her winning collection Equilibrium as part of the alumni runway show to cap off the evening. Wendy Krimins, General Manager, Neiman
Design by Heather Hans.
Marcus Michigan Avenue, also selected Edna St. Louis to receive the Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award, which includes a window display at the Michigan Avenue store, plus retail business opportunities. Participating students will also be invited
Melissa Gamble and Stacie Hartman.
to join Driehaus Design Initiative and the Chicago History Museum for the Runway to Showroom®: Driehaus Business of Fashion Symposium. The symposium consists of industry-led panels and open dialogue, with a focus on business, to help designers achieve success. It also includes a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum's costume collection and a curated guided tour of Silver Screen to Mainstream. (Photos by Allen Bourgeois and Kasia Karosz).
Chuck, Rooney and I are always up for any adventure so we were happy to recently learn of a program called Getaway2Give. And,
Rooftop luxury.
after we did a little research, we decided to experience it for ourselves on a recent trip to NYC. The program helps charities raise money using live auction packages of memorable vacation experiences. They include beach, city, mountain and international accommodations–everything from an estate on Lake Como to a private island in Belize and so much more! There's a reasonable reserve for the packages but
Four Seasons NYC Ty Warner Suite.
Dinner at Vaucluse with friends David Brandt and David Granados.
there's no obligation if it doesn't sell. (You can see how it works here.) We chose the NYC package and it was everything they had promised and more–friendly greeters, exquisite accommodations in a beautiful apartment and a follow-up to make sure you were satisfied. I love this concept and am very familiar with how hard it is to find/offer unique live auction prizes for
At Polo Bar restaurant with Valentino and his partner Giancarlo Giammetti in background.
a charity gala. (G2G also has a luxury vacation club that links travelers with unique travel spots.
King Kong on Broadway was astounding.
Read about it here in the LA Times). Adam Capes, Getaway2Give president/chief idea officer, founded the company in 2012 and "hopes to continue to help more charities and schools increase their fundraising capabilities." On our first night, we saw King Kong at the Broadway Theatre. I have no words to describe how fabulous and awe-inspiring it was. The mechanical gorilla has to be the 8th wonder of the world! The music was good but it was truly all about the ape. My mouth stayed open for the entire 2 hours and 15 minutes. (A must-see if you can). Afterwards, we had dinner at Raoul's, a
Emilio's Ballato rest. in Nolita.
Jeremy Scott’s "TV dinner dress at Met CAMP exhibit.
classic French bistro at 180 Prince Street. The moody ambiance, low lighting and great food made for a perfect night. The following day, we were so excited to meet up with friends Kim Renk Dryer (co-owner Sequin) and her
Fun with friends Greg and Kim Renk Dryer and Sharon Bush at Polo Bar.
hubby Greg Dryer and Sharon Bush (ex-wife of Neil Bush and mother to the beautiful Lauren Lauren, who is married to Ralph's son). We met up for dinner at the
Moschino gown inspired by a Budweiser beer label at Met CAMP exhibit.
Polo Bar, always a great spot, and on this night, it was packed with chic peeps. One of the things I love is that you can't even go in for a drink at the bar unless you have dinner reservations. It makes for a very civilized dining experience without having to elbow your way through a crowd. As we were eating and talking, I noticed Valentino being seated directly
Rooney Rules enjoying breakfast at Bubby's.
behind us with his longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti! The iconic designer is much shorter/tinier than I realized but certainly no less formidable. (And, of course, we had to take a sneaky photo for posterity! Lol!). The next day, we couldn't wait to see the CAMP exhibit at the Met. It did not disappoint. There are more than 250 objects dating from the 17th century to the present. The exhibit is inspired
Creel & Gow, one of our faves, at 131 E. 70th.
by Susan Sontag's 1964 essay "Notes on Camp" that examines how the elements of "irony, humor, parody, artifice, theatricality and exaggeration" are expressed in fashion. Bjork's infamous swan dress by Balenciaga is on display as is the Mugler oyster shell gown worn by Cardi B to
Raoul's French bistro at 180 Prince.
the Grammys. Also on exhibit are Viktor & Rolf's meme-able couture gowns that read "Less is More" and "Sorry I'm Late I Didn't Want to Come"; a pair of Celine mink heels; a Warhol Campbell's tomato soup print mini-dress; a Balenciaga pink dress covered in 3 million feathers; a flamingo headpiece by the House of Schiaparelli; a Burberry rainbow Pride cape; a Marc Jacobs cape printed with opera star Maria Callas’
"CAMP: Notes on Fashion" exhibit through September 8 at the Met.
face; a Moschino gown inspired by a Budweiser beer label; sexy sailor suits by Jean Paul Gaultier; a sparkly showgirl costume and headdress that Bob Mackie designed for Cher; an over-the-top lux tux for Liberace and so much more. One of my favorites
One of several terraces in the Ty Warner Suite at Four Seasons NYC.
was Jeremy Scott’s "TV dinner dress," made for Moschino’s fall 2019 line. The kimono-type garment features a vegetable medley of peas, carrots, and corn on one side and mashed potatoes with a pat of butter on the other. OMG. You had to see it to believe it! From there, it was on to the Temple of Fashion, Bergdorf's. And the day wouldn't have been complete without lunch at BG. The next day we were so
Elegant party space at Four Seasons NYC.
excited to meet up with old Chicago friend David Brandt (former director of catering for the Palmer House Hilton) and his partner David Granados. David B., who is now Director of Catering and Special Events at the fabulous Four Seasons NYC, gave us a tour of one of the most exquisite suites we've ever seen, their Ty Warner Suite that was designed by I.M. Pei. The suite has 360 degree views, a $60,000 bed and
A Warhol Campbell's tomato soup print minidress at CAMP Met exhibit.
multiple balconies–it also comes with a Rolls and driver whose on call 24/7. The suite costs a cool $50,000 per night and is never discounted. From this heady experience, we moved to the elegant Four Seasons bar where the live entertainment included a sweet birthday song for moi. Dinner was at Vaucluse, an upscale brasserie at 100 E. 63rd St. Happy to see the Double Ds so happy and doing so
Elegant Bob Mackie design for Cher at the CAMP Met exhibit.
well. David G. is on a path to stardom having a role in the recent Avengers movie, appearing in the FX series POSE and 3 appearances on SNL! Whoa! On our last night, we had dinner at Emilio's Ballato, an old school Italian restaurant in Nolita (55 E. Houston) with a
Two masterpieces and one is all mine.
history of celebrity visitors that includes Rihanna, the late Andy Warhol, Jerry Seinfeld and more. (Rumor has it, this was Judy Tullman's favorite spot when she lived in NY too!). It reminded me a lot of our own La Scarola, with photos on the walls and top notch food and service. RooneyRules enjoyed every minute of it too, shopping on Madison, the Village and SoHo with a fabulous breakfast at Bubby's (73 Gansevoort St. and 120 Hudson). I could slap myself for forgetting to bunny hop to the NYC Playboy Club–I don't know what I was thinking!? Next time…..grrrrrr.
Gala co-chairs Teri and Doug Brown and Carole Wood and Carl Jenkins.
More than 450 guests attended Goodman Theatre’s "Starstruck" Spring Gala on May 18, headlined by Broadway star and Tony–Award nominee Megan Hilty. The black-tie event, presented by the Women's Board, was held at the Fairmont Chicago and raised more than $800,000 to support the theater’s education and
Broadway star Megan Hilty with participants of Goodman Theatre's Education & Engagement programs.
community engagement programs. The evening began in the International Ballroom where guests enjoyed appetizers and cocktails before proceeding to the Imperial Ballroom for dinner and
Roche Schulfer, Goodman's executive director, Alexandre Fox and David Fox Jr., board of trustees chair
entertainment amid an assortment of dramatic purple floral centerpieces and dazzling chandeliers. Hilty kicked off the evening with her impressive vocal range and charm singing “They Just Keep Moving the Line” from her a famed portrayal of seasoned triple-threat
Maria and Albert Goodman.
Ivy Lynn in NBC’s musical drama SMASH. She nodded to her most notable Broadway roles with “Suddenly Seymour,” from the concert revival of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’sLittle
Co-chairs Carl Jenkins and Carole Wood with Goodman's artistic director Robert Falls and Kat Falls.
Shop of Horrors; “Popular” from her role as Glinda in Wicked opposite Idina Menzel—marking her Broadway debut; “Backwoods Barbie” from 9 to 5 The Musical; followed by an ode to Alan Jay Lerner/Frederick Loewe with “I Could’ve Danced All Night” and a medley of tunes from Annie Get Your Gun, including “There No Business Like Show Business.” She revisited her famed role in SMASH with “That’s Life” and “Second Hand White Baby Grand” as well as her role in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes with “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Hilty concluded her performance
Siddharth (Bobby) Mehta and WB member Swati Mehta.
with a show-stopping encore mash-up of “Don’t Forget Me/Let Me
Revan Lowe-Watkins and Goodman Scenemakers Board treasurer Dujon Smith.
Be Your Star” from SMASH. Gala guests enjoyed an elegant three-course dinner followed by dancing to the sounds of The Gentleman of Leisure. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for one prize that included a Tiffany & Co.Prism design pendant in platinum, set with over eight carats of Tiffany diamonds hung from a diamond-studded chain valued at $45,000; and a matching Prism design ring in platinum with over four carats of Tiffany diamonds valued at $25,000. The gala was co-chaired by Teri and Doug Brown and Carole Wood and Carl Jenkins. Since its inception in 1978, the Goodman Theatre Women’s Board—currently under the leadership of president Denise Stefan Ginascol—has raised more than $46 million in support of 39 Goodman productions and an array of educational programs through special events and projects. (John Reilly Photography)
Chuck Hagopian (IL Comptroller’s Chief of Staff) Merri Dee and OUT of Office founder Andrew Hayes wearing his PRIDE Converse sneakers!
The weather forecast called for rain but, 30 minutes before the sold-out event, the clouds parted and the sun came out, of course, for the 18th annual "OUT of the Office," an event that brought together nearly 450 LGBTQ+ professionals, allies, friends and family. Held on the open rooftop lounge of I|O Godfrey, the event
Michael Caputo, Tony Abruscato and Greg Hyder.
featured a raffle with 10 items on the block – overnight stays at the Godfrey Hotel, London House; dinners at Fogo de Chao; a Ruth Bader Ginsberg “Resist” basket (that included a pose-able RGB “action” figure and prayer candle); a Golden Girls basket (complete with collectible Golden Girls Pez dispensers and an Eli’s Cheesecake) and a framed Make America Gay Again print. In
Keli Knight and Tiffany Chemelle.
attendance were representatives of event beneficiaries: Imani RupertGordon (of Affinity-Chicago), Lori Cannon (of Heartland Health) and Jerome Holsten (of LGBT Chamber of Commerce). They spoke to the crowd sharing news about
Sogna Martin-Hicks, Mike Goodridge and Tonya Hicks-Martin.
their respective non- profits and thanked everyone for their support. Andrew Hayes, dynamic event founder, spoke about the birth of the event in 2001. He said, "The event came to life originally, because 18 years ago, it was very difficult for LGBTQ+ professionals to network for business outside of gay bars. We just weren’t able to
Marshall Beck, Sam Powell and Dan Spillane.
comfortably gather in non-gay settings. I got a downtown restaurant (that is no longer around) to agree to allow us to gather in the banquet room for the first OUT of the Office and, since then, we’ve gathered in downtown and River North area restaurants, hotels,
Dan Diaz and Lindsay Brown.
and venues." A couple of fun party facts–the party averages 350 people every year, except in 2015 when they had 653 people! Don Lemon (CNN) was the emcee for the
Marshall Beck, Sam Powell Dan Spillane.
2006 event benefiting Gay Games Chicago. During the event, a video wall included commemorative artwork acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots #WherePrideBegan. Staff and principals from event sponsors Dreamtown Realty, Professional Moving Specialists, Cirque du Soleil VOLTA, Chicago Reader, Windy City Times and PaternoGroup networked and circulated among the crowd. Love and congrats Andrew, Chicago is very lucky to have YOU!
Close to 400 guests attended the Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) Midwest Region’s 2019 Spirit of Courage Benefit dinner at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago recently. The Center bestowed its highest honor, the Humanitarian Laureate Award, on Nikki Haley, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2017 – 2019), for her courage and compassion in protecting global human rights and the state of Israel. Ms. Haley and Mary Hart, SWC Trustee and TV personality, had an inspiring conversation on Haley’s upbringing in an Indian immigrant family and the struggle of being an “other” in American society. Haley shared how this experience made her stronger and to take true pride in being an American. Ms. Haley also discussed the current negative political atmosphere and articulated that while it’s bad, we should
Medal of Valor Awardees Daniel Pincus, Justin Hefter, Megan Hallahan and Mohammed Al Samawi pictured with Senator Mark Kirk.
recognize that we all have more in common than different. “There is true evil in the world and we must come together to fight for human rights around the world,” Haley told guests. “Nikki Haley personifies the legacy of Simon Wiesenthal, who reminded the world that freedom is not a gift from heaven, rather, it is something that we must fight for each and every day,” said Rabbi Marvin Hier, SWC Founder and Dean. The late Dominic DiFrisco, a well-known and much loved leader of Chicago's Italian-American community, was posthumously awarded the Community Leadership Award. DiFrisco
Robert Hartman (SWC Trustee), Stuart Isen (SWC Trustee), Dawn Arnall (SWC Trustee and chair MOTJ Capital Campaign) Nikki Haley, Rabbi Hier and Mary Hart and Burt Sugarman (SWC Trustees).
dedicated his life to building bridges between communities, supporting tolerance education, and fighting against discrimination in all its forms. “Dominic was a giant among men with the soul of an angel,” said Alison Pure-Slovin, SWC Midwest Region Director. Medal of Valor Awards were given to Mohammed Al Samawi, Megan Hallahan, Justin Hefter and Daniel Pincus—the individuals featured in the best-selling memoir, "The Fox Hunt", where Mr. Al Samawi’s life is saved from the brutal civil war in Yemen with the help of a daring plan engineered on social media by a small group of interfaith activists; Hallahan, Hefter, and Pincus. ABC-7's Alan Krashesky served as the evening’s emcee.
Project Style hosted its 2nd annual Chips in for Charity Casino Night on May 9th at Taste 222. Over 200 guests gathered to gamble for good and raised nearly $30K for the Chicago-based non profit that uses fashion as a tool to engage and empower
disadvantaged youth. There were multiple blackjack, craps, and roulette tables for partygoers to enjoy. Those who found themselves lucky on the tables were able to use their winnings towards raffle prizes from TGIN, Kendra
Andre Wilson, Steven Staffan, and Johnny Endrihs.
Scott, and Sunda to name a few. Silent auction items were also available, including an autographed jersey from Derek Jeter, concert tickets from Rob Thomas, men's fashion from Eredità Shoes, Brummell Socks, and Surmesur, fine jewelry from Rachel Lynn and Ora Nicole, ticket packages from the Chicago Cubs and shopping sprees from Marcus and
Ishan Johnson
Alexandra Marks Jewelry. Founded in 2017, Project Style hosts in-school workshops that educate girls on how fashion and self-esteem intersect; teaching them the link between confidence and personal style, the difference between expression and objectification and how to find and embrace their authentic selves. The girls can take what they learn in the workshops and put it to use as they shop for free from donated clothing pop-up boutiques that are temporarily constructed in their schools.
Emcee Jenni Pulos with NHM president Dr. Laura Calamos.
The National Hellenic Museum hosted its annual gala, this year themed "Projecting into the Future," on May 11 at The Geraghty. The event attracted hundreds of Greek Americans, friends and community members
Sue Carey, John Cannis, George Safis, Iris McCaffery and Martha Cannis.
from across the country in celebration of the legacy of Hellenism during a lively night of great food, auctions, live music and dancing. The event will benefit tens of thousands of visitors, including schoolchildren and families who attend the Museum on field trips, during community events and for programs. The gala
Glam gala guests!
was emceed by popular former “Flipping Out” star, Jenni Pulos, who donated artwork created by her nephew, artist Nicholas Kontaxis, to the Museum. The evening was enhanced by the live musical stylings of Manhattan and the Chris Sarlas Orchestra featuring Nick Lambrinatos and Voula Karahaliou. The evening honored Peter
John Calamos Sr. (founder/chairman/global CIO, Calamos Investments), Mae Calamos, Ethel Parthenis (founder/ board chair Grecian Delight Foods) and Peter Parthenis.
Parthenis, Sr. in recognition of his lifetime of commitment to the National Hellenic Museum. “We are thrilled that Peter Parthenis, Jr. was
John Karamanos and Paul Athens.
able to join us in honoring his father, through a moving dedication depicting the path of this enterprising Greek American family! The Museum is lucky to have a shining example from our wide community of support,” said Dr. Laura Calamos, Museum president. Attendees were delighted to discover that the décor of this special evening was provided by the museum’s exhibition and collections teams, as images of Greek
Artist Nicholas Kontaxis donated a piece of artwork.
Americans from the archives decorated all aspects of the event. “We were excited to show the ongoing work the Museum does to protect, catalog, and preserve the historical archives that represent the Greek American experience. This was an impactful way to highlight our important work as a museum,” said Dr. Laura Calamos, "And with the NHM Collections & Archives Portal soon accessible online, everyone will be able to learn about our history and culture, from anywhere in the world!”
The 12th annual Veuve Clicquot (celeb-filled) Classic brought together more than 9,000 guests in Liberty Park for an unforgettable afternoon of polo alongside the idyllic back drop of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The Brut and Rosé Champagne flowed with a feast to match the drink. Buffet tables overflowed with salmon, miniature dollops of burrata and tiny cast iron skillets filled with
“Pose” actor Ryan Jamaal Swain with Aisha.
shrimp and grits. Dessert followed in the form of fruity cake pops and strawberry ice cream sandwiches the size of silver dollars. A call to “Stomp the Divots” brought guests to the field. Seen inside the viewing tent at this Champagne soiree were Michael B. Jordan, Jennifer
Aisha Murff with Tina Wilson (wife of former Chicago Bear Otis Wilson).
Lawrence (newly engaged), Gayle King, and Nicky Hilton Rothschild. The National Anthem was performed by “POSE” actor Ryan Jamaal Swain. Julianne Moore gracefully performed the ceremonial ball toss at the start of the game. The days' events came to an end with a victory for Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier, concluding with a
Tracey Johns, Aisha Murff, Tina Wilson and Krystal Harris.
“highest-scoring award” for Figueras, which came in the form of a limited-edition timepiece from Hubolt. "Soon waiters gently cleared away glasses and plates, a polite signal it was nearly time to go. Guests slowly and reluctantly peeled themselves from the dreamy scene and made it back to reality by way of Manhattan-bound ferries. Just like a dream it was all over much too soon," said darling attendee Aisha Murff, who attended with Tina Wilson (wife of former Chicago Bear Otis Wilson).
The curtain lifts, a hush falls over the audience and design takes center stage. Objects from more than 50 of Chicago’s storefront theaters, Tony Award-winning companies, back-of-the-bar comedy shows and improv troupes will star in the Design Museum of Chicago’s new exhibition, “Setting the Stage: Objects of Chicago Theatre,” opening on June 29th at Expo 72 (72 E. Randolph). This design-focused show is part of the 2019 Year of Chicago Theatre, a citywide, year-long focus presented by the Chicago Mayor’s office, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the League of Chicago Theatres.
Virgil Abloh madness is alive and well in Chicago! For Abloh, a Rockford native, multi-disciplinary artist and former creative director for Kanye West, everything he touches is turning to gold beginning with his Off-White luxury brand and continuing through his collab with
With Virgil Abloh at the MCA's ArtEdge gala.
Louis Vuitton as its innovative menswear designer/director. We attended the MCA's ArtEdge gala on June 8 celebrating him on the eve of his first museum exhibition, "Virgil Abloh: Figures of Speech" and it was as unique as the designer himself, beginning with a red
Virgil (Abloh) signed sneaker at the NikeLab pop-up on N. Michigan.
carpet set up in the loading dock area and continuing into the freight elevator with hanging chandeliers. His pop-ups around town, one for Louis Vuitton at 1100 W. Randolph (see it here) and one at 677 N. Michigan with NikeLab that includes a mentorship program for young, local artists (see it here), are attracting crowds and lines. I love his creations and his design philosophy that is inspired by the kids on the street but with a luxury twist. Keep up the great work and check out my Chicago Tribune column about the exciting gala coming soon here!
It was a nice surprise to receive a call from longtime, Playboy super-fan Mike Travis. His Playboy collection consists
Then….
of over 25,000+ pieces of memorabilia spanning Club items like unique glassware and even curtains imprinted with Bunny logos to my life-size, standup poster that stood in all of the Clubs at one time advertising key club sales and upcoming events. I owned one in the 70s/80s but it disappeared and I've always hoped to find one again. I'm a collector too but, sadly, he wasn't willing to sell. However, he WAS willing to drive all the way from Kentucky, with fellow collector Russ Henning, to have me sign it. It was great to chat about the Golden Age of Playboy with like-minded fans like myself (and at least I have the photo.) Lol! Thanks for the memories Mike and Russ!
Sunda Chicago’s 10 Year Anniversary Party took place on May 16 with over 300 guests in attendance, including local luminaries like Ryan Chiaverini, Rochelle Trotter, Linda Yu, and Matt Forte. Hosted by owner Billy Dec and chef/partner MikeMorales, guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and
Rebecca Uy Ryan Chiaverni Martina Platanias Christine Vi Maggie Krebs
cocktails, before digging into a traditional Kamayan Feast. This traditional family-style meal, which translates to “with hands” in
Teresa Soren and Rochelle Trotter.
Tagalong, is commonly employed to mark special occasions where friends and family can be connected through food. Guests capped off the night with cultural performances, including a Lion Dance. Congrats to this River North hotspot and its creative founder Billy and partner Mike!
Don't miss the season finale of Collector's Call on Sunday, June 23. This brand new show from MeTV is dedicated to the collector in all of us! The show we will appear on features our book collection. Chuck and I have been collecting books since the 80s when I purchased a set of Hemingway first editions from Leslie Hindman Auctioneers for Chuck's Christmas gift. Since then,
With Leslie Hindman and Thomas Joyce.
we've gone on to make some great rare book scores, including all of the British and American first editions of the Harry Potter series (all signed by J.K. Rowling and including special presentation copies to her father, signed scripts and more); a Tolkien-signed Hobbit; Ian Fleming'sDr. No signed by its star Sean Connery; Winnie-the-Pooh signed by author/illustrator Milne, Shepherd; Bambi in the original German; vintage pop-ups; 1st edition F. Scott Fitzgeralds that includes his wife Zelda's only book and more. Can't wait! Hope you tune in!
Maria Pappas' beautiful image on her birthday cake!
Congrats and happy birthday to everyone's favorite public servant, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. She recently spent time at Operation Push Headquarters to help seniors with their housing concerns (read Sun-Times' Mary Mitchell's column here). Her innovations at the Treasurer's office are something to behold. Love and thanks for all you do Maria and we hope your birthday was as special as you are!
Fashion designer/humanitarian Quinton de' Alexander was feted at the DuSable Museum on June 7 during "Blueprint," an exhibit
Quinton de' Alexander surrounded by friends/fans wearing his creations.
dedicated to the "blueprint" of his amazing life and career. He founded the Dream in Color Foundation which supports the homeless and at-risk youth and is CEO of Creativity United, a nonprofit that annually recognizes deserving community leaders during its "We Dream in Color" Humanitarian Celebration. (This year's event will be hosted by CBS News' Suzanne Le Mignot on Saturday, July 13. For tickets, more info, click here). During a VIP reception, I interviewed Quinton and learned more about this amazing man who gives back to so many. Thanks for all you do Q and congrats, congrats, CONGRATS!
The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs will celebrate their 22nd Annual Wine Dinner on June 14 at the Union League Club. This wine dinner benefits the over 14,000 youths associated with the ULBGC. A special toast will be made in honor of the nonprofit’s 100th year anniversary. The event will feature the iconic Heitz Cellar wines which produces the highest quality wine since 1961. Guests will enjoy a five-course meal specially created by the renowned Union League Club's Chef Garbin with each course paired with a different Heitz Cellar wine. This years event will have ULBGC trustees, Lisa Shade and Michael L. Sullivan as co-chairs. (For tickets, $225, and more info, click here!)
The Childrens Place Association will present "Enchantment Under the Sea" on Friday, June 14 at Ignite Glass Studios. The nonprofit provides critical assistance to children and their families in four key areas of impact: health, education, family stability and financial stability. (For tickets/more info, please click here)
Mark your calendars NOW for the next Randolph Street Market coming June 29/30, Sat./Sun. from 10 – 5 pm! "Red, White & Cool" will feature endless high end vintage dealers, food, live entertainment, SALLY SCHWARTZ and MORE! There's no better place to visit on a weekend!
The Service Club of Chicago will host its annual "Day on the Terrace" fashion show/fundraiser on Monday, August 5. The luncheon will feature the city's top retail stores and designers showcasing their "first look" at fall fashion modeled by SC members and local celebs. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions and co-chaired by SC members Jean Antoniou, Yvette Cusack and Sharyl Mackey, the event at The Peninsula Chicago is always a sellout so get your tickets while you can HERE!
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I hope you can join me on Thursday, October 10 when I will be honored by the AIBI with its Chicago Fashion Icon Award at the Perillo Rolls Royce Gold Coast dealership (834 N. Rush St.) I love our local designers and can't wait to celebrate with them, and hopefully YOU, during this fashion show/fundraiser! Thrilled to have Frances Renk as our Honorary Committee Chair and ZZAZZ Productions producing the runway show! The fabulous Ji Suk Yi will be our emcee! More details to come! Thank you so much AIBI! I'm so excited! (Save-the-Date image by the one and only Rosemary Fanti!)
The late Gus Giordano and daughter Nan Giordano both have days dedicated to them in Chicago!
Like father, like daughter! Congrats to the much loved artistic director of GiordanoDance Chicago, Nan Giordano! Former Mayor Emanuel designated Sunday, June 9 as NAN GIORDANO DAY in Chicago! Her late father, Gus Giordano, founder of the GDC, also has a day, April 25. Awwwww!
The weather we've all been waiting for appears to have arrived! Thank goodness as we have all sorts of fun outdoor activities we're anxious to pursue like checking out all of the city's wonderful street festivals! (See list here!)
Plus: Retrospect Chicago; Losing a champion; CECA Impact Awards; Chicago's cool James Beard parties; Rita Hayworth Gala; Alexian Brothers "Bal de Fleur"; Chicago CAC Luminary Awards; Chicago Jazz Orchestra celebrates 40; Ronald McDonald House Gala; Celebrating Vonita; Bloom 'n Toss; Service Club's Earlybirds & Bookworms; Wedding bells ring for beloved Chicago couple;Simply From the Heart's 1st Women's Luncheon; Mexican Museum's Gala de Arte; Hindman's brand new branding; Gene Siskel Film Center hosts Favreau and Downey; OUT of Office; Coop hops on; Met Gala musings; Darling videos and so much MORE!
SOS Children's VillagesIllinois celebrated Foster Care Awareness Month by hosting "Dining & Conversation," a star-studded unique dining experience held on the
Actor Christian Bale, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and SOS Illinois board member
stage at the Pritzker Pavilion to bring awareness and raise funds for the nonprofit's foster care program. The May 1 event, a sellout with nearly 200 guests, began with a meet-and-greet with the "Luminaries" who included
With Smita Shah and Leslie Hindman.
advocate/actor Christian Bale, GillianFlynn (best-selling author/screenwriter), Lou Canellis (Fox sports anchor), David Eigenberg (actor, Chicago Fire), Josh Earnest (CCO United Airlines),
Celebrity chefs prepared a 15 course menu!
Zach Filkins (Grammy nominated lead guitarist for OneRepublic), Elayne Granger (director, AT & T External Affairs), Leslie Hindman (founder/chair Hindman Auctions), Star Jones (attorney/TV host/ journalist), Adam McKay (Academy
Tarrah and Jeff Wright, Christian Bale, Rich and Melissa Gamble and friend.
Award-winning director/screenwriter), Jamie Rhee (Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation), Dr. Stuart Strahl (president/CEO Chicago Zoological Society), Scott
Award-winning author Gillian Flynn, SOS Illinois CEO Tim McCormick and Christian Bale.
Turow (author/attorney), Anna Valencia (City Clerk of Chicago), Jenny Wray (professional foster parent, SOS Children's Villages Illinois) and yours truly. The concept for the evening was unique, with
Lead event chef Tony Priolo (R) and fellow celeb chefs.
each Luminary sharing a course, about 10 minutes, at each of the 15 tables. The 15 course menu was prepared by celebrity chefs who generously donated
Celebrity chefs who donated their time and talents.
their time and talents. They included Chefs Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Ryan Pitts (RL Restaurant), Dan McGee and Liz Plascencia (Swisshotel Chicago), Louie Alexakis (Avli), John Coletta (Quartino Ristorante),
With sponsor Alex Pissios and my friend/SOS Illinois board member Mary Pat Burns.
Federico Comacchio (Coco Pazzo), Graham Crowe (mixologist at TWO), Kevin Cuddihee (Porter Kitchen and Deck), George Jewell (Jewell Events Catering), Tom Van Lente (TVL Culinary), Nicole Raftery and Raki Mehra (Morton's The Steakhouse) and Chris Gawronski (The Gage). A program, emceed by
With inspiring SOS Illinois alumni Tevin Marbeth.
Micah Materre, included introductory remarks from Tim McCormick (CEO), Jim Wolfe (board president) and Michael Landers (with title sponsor Sodexo). Tevin Marbeth, an SOS
Dining & Conversation was held on the Pritzker Pavilion Stage.
Illinois alumni, spoke passionately about his foster care experience at SOS, where siblings are always kept together. He said he was "surrounded by immense love and support" at the Villages. Marbeth excelled at school, earning a Bachelor's Degree of Fine Arts in Acting from Northern Illinois University. SOS Illinois CEO Tim McCormick shared, "May is an important month because it amplifies the good and uplifting work we do at SOS
Emcee Micah Materre introduces celebrity chefs.
Illinois every day of the year to strengthen families and transform lives…By Luminaries and Celebrity Chefs adding their voices to the conversation, it further magnifies awareness for a vulnerable
The ultimate selfie with Batman. Don't be jelly.
group of individuals who often are marginalized by society." SOS Children’s Villages Illinois, founded over 25 years ago, is a 501(c)3 child welfare agency that provides a stable home in a supportive, community environment designed to help children in need grow into caring, productive, and self-reliant adults. This model differs from traditional foster care in emphasizing the following four components: 1) Children live together with
The lively art of conversation to benefit a great cause!
their siblings, 2) Children receive care and support from a full-time, professionally trained Foster Parent, 3) Children grow up in a private, single-family home, 4) Children are supported by the Village, designed as a model of community of care. SOS Illinois celebrates a 100% high school
Fun with new friends.
graduation rate, compared to a national average of 50% for children in foster care. SOS Children's Villages International, the parent organization of SOS Illinois, began in 1945 and today is the largest non-denominational child welfare organization in the world with more than 73,400 children living in over 550 SOS Villages in more than 130 countries. The event was co-chaired by SOS board members Rama Dandamudi, Jonah Siegellak and Jim Wolfe (board president).(A personal thanks and shout-out to my friend, SOS board member Mary Pat Burns for getting me involved with this wonderful organization!)
Dominic DiFrisco. His passing on April 28 at age 85 has left a hole in Chicago's heart that will never be filled. A champion of the underdog, an ambassador for the Italian/American community, a mentor, a friend, husband, father and so much
Carol and Dominic DiFrisco.
more, Dominic was a game changer. Everyone he touched was forever changed for the better. One would often see Dominic stationed in his regular booth (back left) at Gene & Georgetti's restaurant, one of his favorite spots. And, more often than not, he would be offering advice and
En Famille–Nina Mariano, Dominic, Carol and Pasquale Dominic Gianni.
mentorship to anyone who was lucky enough to sit with him. He gave me very valuable advice on a shady champagne deal so, yes, I've been blessed by his knowledge too. The restaurant even put a sign on his
Jamie Gaballa, Chuck Jordan, Dominic, Whitey Pearson, Tess Malone and John Zajak (Photo by Mila Samokhina).
booth after his passing, closing it down for a week, in memory of its much loved guest. Dominic's passing has been major news in Chicago and rightfully so. The Cubs stopped regular programming to run the sad news during a game and the Sun-Times put him on the front
Alderwoman Michelle Smith gives Dominic a street, with his grandson Pasquale Gianni.
page, where he belonged. Channel 7 was even at his funeral, which was standing room only. Dominic was a true Renaissance man. We used to see him at the opera, always impeccably dressed. We were on the Gold Coast too, to witness the dedication of a street, Dominc DiFrisco Way, at Schiller and Astor. He loved sports, music, fine dining and, of course, his beautiful family–daughter Nina and her husband Bob Mariano,
Daddy/daughter dance.
wife Carol Loverde DiFrisco and, of course, his grandson Pasquale Dominic Gianni. The service itself, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii Church, was one for the ages with five of the city's most popular and revered priests involved–celebrant Reverend Richard Fragomeni (rector of the
Booth at Gene & Georgetti's reserved in his memory.
church) and concelebrants Msgr. Ken Velo, Rev. Jack Wall, Rev. John Belmonte, Rev. George Clements and Rev. Michael Caruso. Serving as pallbearers were Bob Allegrini, Joe Gagliardo, Dr. Stephen Gallo, Mark Giangreco, Dr. Joe Hennessy, John LaSage, Jim Loverde, Peter Loverde, Andrew Moore, Lou Belpedio, Lou Rago, Antonio Romanucci and Vito Rubino. Honorary pallbearers included Frank Caruso, Dominic DiFazio, Sue and Don Mazzoni, Art Nasser, Michael Sturch and honorary friends from Gene & Georgetti's. There wasn't a dry eye in the church as Dominic had meant so much, in some way, to all in attendance. The light of his life, his grandson Pasquale, gave the eulogy. You could tell his grandfather, who he called papa, had taught him well as he never faltered once in his
Dapper Dominic points to his street sign. (Photo by Mila Samokhina).
delivery, receiving applause and even a standing ovation
Dominic and Carol at one of his favorite restaurants, G & G's, with owners Marion and Tony Durpetti.
afterwards. Besides Dominic's many accomplishments (too many to mention here), Pasquale spoke about his grandfather's love for the Yankees and, in particular his hero, Joe DiMaggio, although he did get him to attend, and eventually love, Cubs' games too. Every notable in town seemed to be in attendance at the church, that even offered valet parking. Refreshments were offered next door and longtime family friend, Joey DiBuono, was even spotted serving. Former Mayor Rich Daley, Terry Newman, Mayor Elect Lori Lightfoot, Alderman Ed Burke, Pat Arbor, Karen and Phil Stefani, Stella Foster, Alderman
Nina, Bob and Dominic in happier days. (Photo by Mila Samokhina).
Walter Burnett. Alderman Patrick Daley Thompson. Commissioner Michael Cabonargi, Marion and Tony Durpetti, Amanda Puck, Jamie Gabala, Whitey Pearson, Terry Pearson Jr., chefs Tony Priolo, Ciro Longobardo, Giuseppe Tentori, Phil Stefani, Bill Kim and Donnie Madia, John Zajak, Rich Ciotta, Tom Kehoe, Donna Rotunno, Mark O'Malley, Tracey and Joey DiBuono (longtime family friends), Kathy O'Malley
Dominic with the late Mayor Richard J. Daley.
Piccone, John Colletti, Martha and John Idler, Diana Palomar, Charles Ifergan, Susanna Homan, Pat and Joe Perillo, Tony Abruscato, Mary and Jim Lasky, Elizabeth Bertucci, Alan Kaye, Liza Sweitzer and Cheri
A photo Dominic had hanging in his Edelman office with his hero, Joe DiMaggio.
James, to name a few, were all in attendance. A celebration of life followed at Dominic's favorite spot, G & Gs, which was closed for the occasion. He was larger than life and, like Cher, he only needed one name. Dominic. Everyone knew who you meant. His life was full and rich and ours was too, just by knowing him. Dominic, thanks for all you did and for the man you were. You taught us all how to live and love life.
Retrospect Chicago creator Sally Schwartz (R) with childhood friend/show curator Kathy Aronstam.
Restrospect Chicago brought the super stars of vintage to Chicago for a debut fashion experience like none other! Brought to you by Image Pilots (Randolph
Andrea Reynders wearing her own Castlebajac coat.
Street Market, Sally Schwartz), the 4-day extravaganza began with a screening of the 1957 classic film "Funny Face" at the Music Box Theatre on May 2 starring everyone's favorite fashion idol, Audrey Hepburn. Friday night was a "first look" at the over 50 dealers (expertly curated by Kathy Aronstam) whose variety of couture and luxury offerings (men's and women's clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes, accessories, textiles and notions from the 1890s to 1990s) were the best I've seen in one place. Every iconic
Cute models and vintage lovers Mark Olley and Tanner Chapman.
designer/brand you could think of was "in 'da house"! A fashion show, produced by Randolph Market ambassador Nena Ivon and benefiting the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, featured an eclectic collection of fashions/accessories worn by vintage enthusiasts Tanner Chapman, Mark Olley, Andrea Reynders, Tom Mentel, Stuart Dyer, Kristen Finney Cooke, Dustin Ericstrup, Annette Findling, Jason Hopkins, Maggie Morgan, Sherrill Bodine, Jerry Svec, Tanya Primus and yours truly. It was a great market that lasted through the weekend. Some of my best finds were at Vintage Le Monde and Lofty Vintage, but every booth offered something unique and lust-worthy. I can't wait for it to return! Thanks for upping Chicago's vintage game Sally! You just rock!
An honor to receive the CECA Impact Award alongside Julie Novack and Lanie Hartman.
I was so thrilled to be recognized by the Catering Executives Club of America at its annual Scholarship Ball along with Lanie Hartman (BBJ Linens) and Julie Novack (PartySlate)
CECA Impact Award winner Lanie Hartman.
with the organization's Impact Award. The event on April 28 at the Peggy Notebaert Museum was a record-breaker with lots of friends, supporters and industry peeps in attendance. The weather broke for a minute and there was actually sunshine so we were able to have cocktails inside and out during the President's Reception at this beautiful
CECA Board Members
museum that houses one of my favorite spaces, the butterfly room! Wendy Cutka, CECA president, graciously welcomed guests who were surrounded by
Friends/tablemates Sheila O'Grady, Michael Caputo, Greg Hyder and my Chuck.
sparkling crystal, golden tablecloths and giant bowls of peonies (my fave!). The dinner, catered by Calihan Catering featured caviar tortes, asparagus bisque, beef tenderloin and strawberry short cake. Fig Media's James Gustin and Andre LaCour were the official photogs and donated a lot of their time making the evening perfect. Kehoe Designs,
Friends/tablemates Frances Renk, Paul Iacono and Mark Olley.
another sponsor, added more sparkle with a campy illustrated stand-up display of the honorees, among other delights. The event raises funds for scholarships for students in the hospitality industry and, on this night, the winners were Elizabeth Doll and Elizabeth Redhead. Special thanks to dear friend Robert Neubert (who broke the news about my award), Joe Monastero (whose introduction brought me to
Friends/tablemates Beth Florek, John Robak, Mary Pat Burns and Tracey Tarantino.
tears) and my wonderfully supportive friends/tablemates Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Paul Iacono, Michael Caputo, Frances Renk, Mary Pat Burns, Sheila O'Grady, John Robak, Bethany Florek, Mark Olley and Tracey Tarantino. So lucky you're all in my life! Thanks for (still) taking my emails/calls! (For more info and how you can support CECA, please click here!)
Hosts Adam Rapoport, Kerry Diamond and Hunter Lewis.
Loved all the excitement in town surrounding the James Beard Awards (with major wins from the Boka Boys, Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm!). One of the events, benefiting the James Beard Foundation, was held at Ralph Lauren’s RL Restaurant where a celebratory cocktail
Zoey Deschanel and Jacob Pechenik
gathering attracted stars, restaurateurs and local notables alike. The benefit was hosted by Kerry Diamond of Cherry Bombe, Hunter Lewis of Food & Wine and Adam Rapoport of Bon Appétit. Clare Reichenbach, the newly appointed CEO of the James Beard Foundation, also attended the
RL Restaurant–the perfect spot to host an elegant soiree!
event, giving a brief speech about the organization’s new mission for 2019 and beyond. Dishes from Ralph Lauren's famed New York restaurant, The Polo Bar, were served alongside favorites from RL Restaurant, including mini lobster rolls, bountiful seafood towers, mini Polo Bar burgers, smoked salmon
Kwame Onwuachi, Andrew Zimmern, JJ Johnson and Chef Chris Coombs.
atop potato pancakes and pigs in a blanket. Signature cocktails from the two restaurants were served, including the Gold Coast Royale made with Grey Goose vodka and the Ridgway Margarita made with Roca Patron tequila. Notable guests included actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson, actress Zoey Deschanel, entrepreneur Ellen Marie Bennett, chefs Rochelle Trotter, Andrew Zimmern, Danielle Chang (Lucky Rice), JJ Johnson, author/chef Kwame Onwuach, Nicolas Jammet (Sweetgreen) and more.
Jay Allen (country music star & Care Giver Award Recipient) and Kylie Morgan.
More than 600 guests celebrated the 32nd annualAlzheimer’s Association Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala
Princess Yasmin (General Chair and Founder) and Blaise LaBriola
(underwritten by Rolex) on May 4 at the Hilton Chicago. The event raised more than $1 million to support the critical work of the Alzheimer's Association’s research, care and support programs. This year’s theme, “The Key to Our Future,” was inspired by Paris’ world-famous Pont des Arts (the Love Lock Bridge) and brought together supporters passionate about unlocking a world without Alzheimer’s disease. The gala, which stands as one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s
Deborah Pearce, Laura Putman, Leah Costantino and Peggy Jacober
marquee fundraising events of the year, was led by co-chairs and avid supporters, the Murphy family: Dan J. Murphy Jr., JoAnn Murphy, Dan Murphy III and Jim Murphy. The Murphy family shares a personal connection to the disease as Dan Jr.’s mother passed away from
Legacy Award recipients Joan and Paul Rubschlager
Alzheimer’s in 2011. Each year the gala recognizes individuals who have a personal connection to Alzheimer’s and are working diligently to use their platform to raise awareness and provide support for those impacted by the disease. This year’s “Legacy Award” honored Joan and Paul Rubschlager for their longtime efforts
Amber Rich, Kylie Morgan, Jay Allen, Casandra Robertson, Evan Robertson, Joe Rich
supporting the cause. The “Caregiver Award” was presented to Jay Allen and his father Joseph Rich, along with his sisters, Amber Rich and Casandra Robertson. Known for his 2018 song, “Blank Stares” inspired by his mother Sherry Rich who passed away from Alzheimer’s, Jay Allen has received worldwide
Co-chairs Jim, Dan Jr., JoAnn and Dan III Murphy.
recognition for this special song, which has accumulated over 200 million views on social media. (He performed it at the gala). Dan Murphy Jr., co-chair, said “My family and I were so honored to be
Jill Baloun, Sarah Creviston, JoAnn Murphy, Inete Bulaw and Tae Haider-Krebs
part of this year’s Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala and immensely grateful for everyone’s dedication to making it such a success. It was such a beautiful evening comprised of passionate Chicagoans striving to work towards a world without Alzheimer’s. We continue to be amazed by Princess Yasmin and her mission to use her mother’s legacy to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease with her valiant commitment to this annual gala.” (Photos by Bill Richert)
Laura Faynor-Ciha and Clay Ciha (pres/CEO, AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hosp).
With the Chicago River as the backdrop, more than 450 guests joined together for the 33rd annual Alexian Brothers Ball Fleur on
Beth and Dr. Paul Guske, Amy and Dr. Jim Kane and Meg and Dr. Michael Recenstein.
May 4 helping to raise $725,000 to expand access to highly specialized services for community members living with behavioral health disorders. The Ball de Fleur is the Alexian Brothers Foundation’s premier philanthropic event, and the five most recent galas have raised $3.25 million to support behavioral medicine programs and services as part of a multi-year “One Life at a Time” vision for behavioral health. “We are committed to bringing more attention to those who struggle with mental illness and addiction,” said Mark Frey, president and CEO, AMITA Health. The theme for this year’s gala was “A Night at the Rockwell … Instilling Hope One Life at a Time.” Supporters of the Alexian Brothers and AMITA Health family mingled during a lively
Tom and Kathy Palmer, Rich and Jan Augustine.
cocktail hour at the relatively new industrial venue, Rockwell on the River. The space features floor-to-
Bob and Pam Seiser with Dina Morris and David Hoppe.
ceiling windows and exposed brick and timber that set off the elegant silver and blue table décor beautifully. Guests enjoyed a four-course gourmet dinner and an opening program that included an impactful video that shared the story of a woman who has been in recovery
Mark Frey (AMITA Health pres/CEO), Melanie Furlan (Sr. VP & Philanthropy Officer) and Clay Ciha (AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital).
from her longtime (13 year) eating disorder, thanks to the treatment she received at AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital in Hoffman Estates. “This is where hope starts,” she said. Guests were also treated to tasting stations from Metropolitan Brewing and Metropolis Coffee and dance music by the popular TC Squared band. Frey took to the stage and revealed that this year’s gala would be an exciting bridge for change — marking the last time it would be under the name of the Alexian Brothers – with the 2020 Ball to reflect the joint AMITA Health system, which comprises 19 hospitals and serves more than 4.3 million residents in the greater Chicagoland area.
Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (ChicagoCAC) held its 5th annual Luminary Award Dinner at the Four Seasons Chicago on May 2. This year’s event honored Pat and Betsy Canning (of KPMG) for lighting the path toward hope and healing for Chicago’s children. The event, co-chaired by Justin Hoss and Virginia Seggerman, raised a record $690,000 for ChicagoCAC. Funds raised are going toward programs and services that help restore the lives of children and families impacted by child sexual abuse. Pat serves as board chair for both the United Way of Metro Chicago and for Kids First Chicago, where he has helped to impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of children and families. Betsy has served as the co-chair of KPMG’s Family for Literacy for several years, where she has helped put over 875,000 books in the hands of young readers in Chicago. Keynote speaker Cook County State’s Attorney Kimberly Foxx delivered a passionate speech about her experience as a survivor of child sexual abuse and the importance of supporting the work of ChicagoCAC. More than 450 corporate, civic and political leaders and friends of ChicagoCAC attended.
CJO supporter, honoree Ray Rusnak (2nd from L) with friends. with
The Chicago Jazz Orchestra (CJO) hosted its 40th Anniversary Gala celebrating four decades as Chicago's longest running professional jazz orchestra at the Palmer House on March 29. The event attracted a capacity crowd of nearly 250 Chicago jazz fans to the Palmer House Hilton’s historic Empire Room for an evening of drinks, hors d'oeuvres, dance and classic big band jazz. Guest artist René Marie, a nationally loved jazz vocalist, was in fine form, backed by CJO founder
Jeff Lindberg, Denise Tomasello and Don Conover.
and artistic director Jeff Lindberg, and Chicago’s premiere jazz ensemble: Scott Burns, Jerry DiMuzio, Rajiv Halim, Bill Overton, Eric Schneider and John Wojciechowski on saxophone; Victor Garcia, Tage Larsen, Bob Ojeda and Brent Turney on trumpet;
A. Alyce Claerbaut.
Steve Duncan, Tom Garling, Luke Malewicz and Michael Young on trombone; Jeremy Kahn on piano; Dennis Carroll on bass; Stuart Flack on guitar and George Fludas on drums. The CJO saluted long-time supporter Ray Rusnak for his leadership and support of jazz music and education in Chicago. (The CJO 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, the culminating event during this, the company’s “Ruby” anniversary season, will be held on Saturday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Studebaker Theater, 410 S. Michigan Ave. in Chicago’s Fine Arts Building. Tickets are $35-$45.) (Photos by Charles Osgood)
HAVI and Wintrust, the event encouraged guests to "revel in red" with many sporting their favorite red footwear. The gala celebrated the impact RMHC-CNI had in the last year and raised over $1 million to support children and their families through the Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile programs. During a program emceed by Rob Stafford (NBC-5), RMHC-CNI CEO Holly Buckendahl shared remarks about the impact the
Mike and Kristi Butkus and Kelly and Michael Butkus–RMHC Family.
nonprofit has had on families in the Chicagoland community and thanked guests for their generosity and continued support. “Our gala is an important fundraising event that helps provide the care and resources needed for countless families with sick
Nicole and Jeff Cantalupo and Lisa and Matt Mitchell.
children around Chicagoland, Northwest Indiana and beyond,” she said. “For a second year in a row, we raised over $1 million. Every dollar will go towards programs and services that enable families to get better together, ensuring that RMHC-CNI continues to be a beacon of hope and support for families with sick children.” At the conclusion of the program, partygoers celebrated the evening’s success by capturing memories at the photo station, enjoying late-night McDonald’s cheeseburgers (my favorite part) and dancing the night away to the live entertainment. (Photos by Nicee Martin)
Honoree Vonita Reescer with Stanley Paul and Marsha Brenner.
Congrats to Vonita Reescer, this year's Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Foundation honoree! Founded in honor of his sister’s memory and her love of fashion, Stanley Paul, the legendary orchestra leader, established this design
Dori Wilson, Whitney Lasky, Tracey Tarantino, Eve Montoya, Reute Butler and emcee Robin Robinson with honoree Vonita Reescer.
scholarship in Raelene's name. The event, held at The Casino on May 1, honored Reescer for her devotion to Chicago and its many nonprofits. Robin Robinson served as emcee for the evening with roaster/toasters Reute Butler, Tracey DiBuono, Whitney Lasky, Eve Rodriguez Montoya and Dori Wilson offering up tantalizing anecdotes of their adventures with Vonita. The program kicked off
Top R to L-Mark Olley, Scott Seaman, Cookie Cohen, Sherry Abrahams (Front L to R) Vonita, Charlene Seaman and Denise Tomasello.
with a personalized song by Kim Jones. Vonita founded
The event benefits the Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Foundation that funds fashion scholarships.
VDR & Associates in 2004, a company that specializes in consulting for hospitality marketing, not-for-profit fundraising, special events, and sales/operations for independent hotels and resorts. She served as President of The Service Club of Chicago from 2012 through 2013, a highlight of her many years of philanthropic service to the community. She also serves on the boards of The Chicago Lighthouse, The National Museum of Mexican Art, the
Eve Montoya, Sherry Lea Holson, Julia Jacobs, Debbie Krolik.
Theater School of DePaul University, Face the Future Foundation and the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation. Vonita has proudly supported The Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Benefit for many years, and in 2019 is "grateful and humbled" by its recognition. The benefit raised funds to support annual scholarships to college students from Greater Chicago and/or Illinois that are currently enrolled in and studying fashion design. More than $300,000 has been awarded since the charity began in 1990.
Whimsy and wit on the North Shore at the Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore's (5300 West Touhy)“Seen and Be Scene” party. The May 2 event included everything from a contortionist and sword swallower to Hollywood Glam characters, a champagne skirt dancer and more. The hotel, which features the largest ballroom and event space on the North Shore, recently went through a multi-million dollar renovation. The property-wide transformation includes an overhaul of the hotel’s 15,000-square-feet of flexible banquet and meeting space, in addition to a complete revamp of the 250 guestrooms, lobby, indoor pool and public spaces. Who knew? (Photos by Marisa Klug-Morataya)
Someone you should know–Catherine Costello. She created "Bloom 'n Toss", a unique concept that re-purposes healthy flowers and plants by placing them into the hands of the elderly, visually impaired, the sick, the cognitive and physically disabled, those in hospice, veteran's groups and others. So, if you have leftover flowers/plants after your next event, please consider calling Catherine so she can "spread joy and elevate the spirit of people everyday." Tony Abruscato's "Flower & Garden Show" is a big fan! For info, please click here!
On June 13, The Service Club of Chicago will present its 2nd annual "Earlybirds & Bookworms" breakfast featuring acclaimed author and award-winning fashion designer Jeffrey Banks. The 8:30 a.m. mimosa breakfast at RL Restaurant will give guests the opportunity to purchase an inscribed copy of Mr. Banks' recent book, "Norell: Master of American Fashion" and enjoy a discussion of his life in the industry. Seating is limited. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
Simply From The Heart, a nonprofit that offers complimentary beauty services to raise self esteem for hospitalized patients, will host its first annual Women's Luncheon on Thursday, June 6 at Gibson's. To date, they have pampered over 5,000 patients! Won't you consider helping them continue their good work? (For tickets, only $75, click here! #pamperingwithapurpose
Kudos to my fave auction house, Hindman Auctions, for its new brand identity! As of last week, the former Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will now be known as Hindman Auctions! Established in 1995 by my beautiful friend Leslie, the company currently operates more salesrooms than any other auction house in the country! 85% of our home decor came from Leslie's auctions and we couldn't be happier! Glad to know it's growing strong! Check out its new website here! Hope to see you there!) #clientcentric#buyorsell#acceptingconsignments (In Chicago at 1338 W. Lake)
The Gene Siskel Film Center will host "Marvel, Movies, and More: Honoring Jon Favreau in Conversation with Robert Downey Jr." on Saturday, June 15 at the Four Seasons. Screenwriter, director, producer and actor Favreau will receive the Renaissance Award following a conversation with Downey. This year's event will be co-chaired by longstanding GSFC supporters and advisory board members Roopa Weber and Anita Liskey. For tickets/more info, click here!
I hope you can join us on Thursday, May 30, for OUT of Office, a kick-ass party to kick-off LGBTQ Month in Chicago! I'm thrilled to co-chair this big event with Windy City Live's Val Warner on the Godfrey Rooftop. A little back story about event founder/my friend, Andrew Hayes and his inspiration for the event. "18 years ago, the only place where we could network, personally and professionally, was in gay bars. I challenged that and pushed us to be anywhere and so we ARE! As a result, or because of it, the city has an annual Gay Pride Kick-Off event called "OUT of the Office," he said. This year's event will support 3 worthy LGBTQ organizations/nonprofits: Affinity Chicago that supports the African-American community; Groceryland, that's celebrating 25 years of service to the HIV/AIDS and gravely ill LGBTQ and the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, inspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. (For tickets, $15-$50, and more info, click here!)
I can't end this blog without mentioning the "CAMPY" Met Gala! I've been watching awards and fashion shows for a long, long time and I've never seen anything this exciting, fresh or more interesting. I know a lot of the designs/attendees have been criticized for this or that
Kylie and Kendall in Versace.
reason but, for me, each and every moment of this spectacular runway display was captivating. And what a way to start things off with the "fashion performance" by the
Gigi Hadid in Michael Kors escorted by Kors in top hat.
one and only Gaga! I would've loved to see how she entered the building with that magnificent Brandon Maxwell loooooonnnnggggg cape! And then when she took off each garment only to reveal another design equally fascinating was a true testimony to her and her art. Loved, loved, loved it! And love them or hate them, the Kardashians always bring the glam and the press! The three of them, Kendall, Kylie and Kim were all outstanding (including mom Kris) in their designs–Kendall and Kylie wearing Versace and Kim bringing out
Dramatic pink flamingo centerpiece designed by Raul Avila and team.
designer ManfredThierry Mugler after a 20 year retirement to design her "wet dress"! Come on! If only the cameras could've followed everyone inside (not even Iphone pics were allowed). But, happily, there
Kim in Thierry Mugler's "wet dress".
were some stolen moments including a peek at the spectacular pink flamingo centerpiece in the Great Hall, created by event planner Raul Avila and his team. The breathtaking 25-foot-tall piece was made out of 30,000 flowers and surrounded by a border of pink feathers. The official Met after-party was at the Top of the Standard with a Gucci party at Hunter College and Jeremy Scott (Moschino) hosting an event with Katy Perry (the living chandelier) and Gwen Stefani at the Playboy Club (yeah!) If only I could've been a fly on all of those walls! Keep up your passion for fashion Anna Wintour! Your legacy is sealed in stone!
I was sad to hear of Cooper Hefner stepping down from his executive role as Playboy Mag's chief of global partnerships to take an advisory position. Cooper has launched a new venture, the Hefner Media Corporation, complete with a digital content platform called HefPost, that will feature everything from news to adult content. "Stepping away from my executive position at Playboy Enterprises was a difficult decision to come to, though it is the right decision to make," Hefner says. Sending lots of Bunny Love your way Coop! Don't be a stranger. (To read about Playboy's new post-Coop pop-up in LA, read here).
Carlos Montoya, Sandy Goldsmith, gala chair Eve Rodriguez Montoya and Evelia Rodriguez.
Congrats to Chicago's National Museum of Mexican Art that celebrated its annual benefit at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on May 3. Themed Noche de Encanto (Evening of Enchantment), the Gala de Arte, a black-tie event that celebrates art, culture and the resiliency of the Mexican community, attracted nearly 700 guests and raised $550,000 for museum programs.
More love in the air! HUGE congrats to lovebirds Tarrah Cooper and Jeff Wright, who tied the knot recently in the elegant Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel. Happy, Happy!
That's it for this week! Hope you've enjoyed all of this fun news as much as I've enjoyed bringing it to you! Remember, if not a subscriber, please sign up here and tell ALLLLL of your friends! I so appreciate your support!
Joffrey Ballet's UNGala; About Face Theatre's Wonka Ball; Chicago Children's Museum plays "Hide 'N Seek"; Final Throne Chicago (OMG); Ocean Prime; Porchlight Music Theatre's ICONS gala; Giordano Dance Chicago and Saks' cool fashion show/party; Something new at the Pen; Hall of Fame baby!; Anixter Center's Benefit for Ability; Opening night for Mart antiques show; Alexian Brothers "Bal de Fleur"; Rush Spring Luncheon; Howard's brand new book; JoinAgent, a cool, new modeling platform; Jen's Golden Birthday; Fun videos and SO Much MORE!
Legendary Rush Street hotspot, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, celebrated its 30th anniversary in grand style on April 24 during a luncheon that benefited MisericordiaHeart of Mercy. An overflow crowd turned out to celebrate with Gibsons' principals Steve Lombardo, Hugo Ralli, John Colletti, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Greg Horan and a host of regulars, longtime employees and loyal fans. The afternoon began with a
Rick Kogan led a panel discussion with Steve Lombardo, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Hugo Ralli, Greg Horan and John Colletti.
cocktail reception with passed hors d'oeuvres, followed by a 3-course meal with menu favorites like filet mignon, double baked potatoes, creamed spinach and macadamia turtle pie and carrot cake. Following lunch, Rick Kogan of the Chicago Tribune, hosted an hour-long retrospective panel
With Misericordia's Lois Gates and Sister Rosemary Connelly.
discussion with Gibsons' afore mentioned partners. It was a fascinating discussion that touched on the early days (when every pencil was counted and they had no take-home bags) to the heady, celeb-filled days (that are ongoing). Kathy shared a touching story of one of Mohammad Ali's last visits to the restaurant with tears in her eyes. She said Jack Nicholson told her NOT to protect his table from fans as he "needed all the love he
It was a full house for the 30th anniversary celebration!
can get." Billy Joel, a restaurant favorite, was told there would be a 45 minute wait before Kathy looked up and realized who was requesting a table. He still chose to wait like a normal customer (loved this). And Colletti shared an hysterically funny story about the time sexy actress Sharon Stone called for a carry out. John got to do the honors himself and was
2nd level private party. Video screens were provided for guests to enjoy the festivities downstairs too.
even offered a kiss of gratitude! I was surprised to learn how much input from customers inspired menu selections. Famed NFL quarterback and Chicago legend Sid Luckman was instrumental in deciding on the restaurant's signature desserts insisting they be big and bold. He even flew Steve to Miami to check out Wolfie's that is famous for over-sized servings. Still Steve wasn't convinced so Luckman had his driver pick up desserts from all over town to compare. The late Congressman Dan Rostenkowski had his wife Laverne give up her beloved coleslaw recipe and the famous Gibsons' ribs were
Partner/Hostess with the mostest Kathy O'Malley Piccone (Chicago Mag photo)
inspired by those served at the former popular Rush Street hot spot, Singapore. Steve spoke about how the name came about (see video here), a combination of many happenstances that included inspiration from the late John Gibson (a man-about-town
Congrats Peg and Steve Lombardo!
who worked for the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau), the Gibsons martini and the simple fact that they'd waited until the last minute to decide. The event upstairs was by-invite-only but tickets were offered at $100 each with all proceeds benefiting Misericordia, a nonprofit that supports over 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More than 300 people watched the panel discussion on screens set up downstairs at the restaurant so everyone could feel they were a part of the celebration. It was a thrill to relive the memories and see so many iconic photos as they scrolled on multiple screens throughout the event. Although, my fondest memory was getting engaged the day the restaurant opened and going there to celebrate, as we still do for every milestone (and just for fun too). Love and congrats Gibsons! You just keep getting better with age! 🙂
Joffrey Community Engagement dancers and Academy of Dance students performed.
It was definitely not your grandma's gala and it was a pure delight! I think The Joffrey Ballet's UNGala (see video here!) was just what the doctor ordered and that it heralds winds of change in the event world. I love the idea of something unique and unexpected, especially since it seems like I've
Performance artists everywhere you looked!
gone to almost every party/gala/ball in town since 1974. Years ago, my friend Helen Melchior and I came up with a similar concept for the Joffrey, an event we named "Couture & Cocktails," which was a departure from their usual event fare. We offered a
Co-chairs Coco Meers and Laura Kofoid (front left) w/ Anne Kaplan, Greg Cameron, Ashley Wheater, WB pres. Noren Ungaretti, Anne Lazar and Zach Lazar. (Photo by Dan Rest)
fashion show experience along with White Castle hamburgers served on silver trays, all at unique venues, and so much more. For 7 years, it was the Joffrey's second largest fundraiser after its gala. These days, people in the know in the event planning world are learning that the word "gala" does not have the connotation they are
Jack Andrews with Chilli Pepper (Photo by Dan Rest)
hoping their parties will have these days. I know of many who are removing the word "ball" or "gala" from their invite. Just recently, during a planning meeting for the Eversight Gift of Sight event (formerly gala), we decided to remove that word and replace it with "celebration." (Shameless plug here: Michael
Levoi and Erin Brown. (Photo by Dan Rest).
Caputo and I are co-chairing this event again this year–with honoree Sherry Lea Holson–on October 24, details here). Times are a-changing and I think this word denotes a thing of the past, at least at this point in time. Partygoers are now looking for unique experiences for their charity dollars and I don't blame them, I am too. I remember when the Red Moon Theatre Company first came into being–I was blown away by its creativity. I saw things I'd never seen before and loved every minute of it. I wanted to be at any party that they were a part of. Sadly, they no
Yuka Iwai and Hansol Jeong (Photo by Dan Rest).
longer exist but I'm hoping something else will pop up along these lines like the Joffrey Ballet's UNGala did on April 12. This party had all of these elements and more for a fabulous, must-attend event, held for the first time at the Lyric Opera House (which will be the Joffrey's permanent home in 2020). Stilt walkers dancing in the aisles and
Anne Kaplan and Dia Weil (Photo by Dan Rest).
blowing bubbles, Joffrey Community Engagement Dancers and Academy of Dance students (see video here!) featured in pop-up performances on 3 levels, fun food from Jewell Events Catering, dramatic decor from HMR Designs, magicians, performance artists, drag queens (Maya Douglas, Chilli Pepper, Mimi Marks, Honey West) and so much more. I was on complete sensory overload, just like my first trip to Disneyland, and I loved every minute of it. Congrats to the creative co-chairs and Women's Board members Laura Kofoid and Coco Meers and to the company itself, led by artistic director Ashley Wheater and Greg Cameron, president/CEO. Just like the event, the company keeps pushing boundaries on what's expected, bringing brand new work to its delighted audiences on an ongoing basis. UNBelievable!
Leppen Leadership Award recipient Precious Brady-Davis (center) with AFT Artistic Director Megan Carney (L) and co-chair Mary Morten.
More than 300 guests joined About Face Theatre for WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno on April 12, at Venue West. Chicago’s celebrated lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and allied (LGBTQIA) theatre company raised nearly $65,000 for its programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. Decked out in polyester leisure suits and platform shoes, guests were immersed in the lush world of drag, disco and decadent club culture. The
Diego Rocha, Devin Marshall and Chris Schmidt.
evening paid homage to the legendary champions of ball culture started by LGBTQIA communities of color. Crowds sipped cocktails and savored delectable treats at food stations while enjoying live entertainment by host Cleo Pockalipps and disco-infused
AFT board pres Becky Huinker and AFT artistic director Megan Carney.
music and dancing curated by CircuitMOM productions. The party also featured an exclusive VIP reception, dozens of silent auction items, plus a live auction and raffle including tickets to Queen and Adam Lambert’sNorth American Rhapsody Tour and a private yacht party on Lake Michigan. Co-Chaired by Willa
AK Miller, DJ CircuitMOM, AFT Dir. of Institutional Giving Benjamin Sprunger and David Hackett.
Taylor, Mary Morten and Aaron Kacel with honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek (WGN TV/Comcast), the party included the presentation of the annual Leppen Leadership Awards. The 2019 recipients were Affinity Community Services, a social justice organization serving the needs of the Black LGBTQ
Raphael Sangel and honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek.
community of Chicago with a particular focus on Black women and Precious Brady-Davis, a localaward-winning diversity advocate, communications professional and public speaker. Micah Manternach, Sharon Pasia and Jimbo Pestano were honored with the About Face Youth Theatre MVP Award, presented annually to outstanding youth theatre ensemble members for exceptional service to the company and to the greater LGBTQIA community. Proceeds from WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno support the theatre's award-winning mainstage programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. (Photos by Timmy Samuel)
Jessica Dedow, Kelsey Paternoster, Gabriela Crowley and Franki Smurro.
Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) opened its doors to more than 250 supporters for the 9th annual Hide 'N Seek event on March 30. The event raised over $75,000 to support the museum’s community inclusion initiatives which welcome almost 140,000 people from underserved neighborhoods every year. The CCM board, along with the event’s host
Board co-presidents Megan Clower, Ruthie Neumeier and Leslie Venetz.
committee, created a "Roaring 20s" theme for the party that included blackjack and roulette casino games, an aerialist performance, a flip cup game sponsored by Coyote Logistics, a Smilebooth gifbooth and more. DJ Michael Hill along with live music from
Kristin Atchison and cute friend on the dance floor.
The Chicago Players transformed the Great Hall into a dance floor. The DineAmic Hospitality Group provided all of the evening’s decadent appetizers, with representation from Public House, Siena Tavern, Bar Siena, Bombobar, Prime & Provisions, Barrio and La Bodega. The party
Cute party guests!
continued at LIQR BOX, Hide 'N Seek’s official after party. The mission of the nonprofit museum is to improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect by providing play-filled experiences that include more than 15 interactive exhibits and daily programming. CCM aims to deliver at least one-third of its total annual attendance opportunities to low-income or under-served community members. (Photos by Beking Media)
The authenticity is astounding! Final Throne Chicago, a Game of Thrones-inspired pop-up party bar at 809 W. Evergreen, opened on April 20, and it is a must see if you're a fan of HBO's Game of Thrones. I'm a total geek for this show so this experience was like visiting Disneyland for
The Night King at Final Throne Chicago.
the first time for me. (Take a video tour here!) The theme envelops you as soon as you step inside the door and travel along the top of the "Wall" to enter the space. There, Daenerys and Khal Drogo greet you in full costume looking every inch the real characters they represent on TV.The main level houses the outstanding Hall of Faces, eerily detailed, where bartenders dressed as
Khal Drogo and Daenerys greeting guests at Final Throne Chicago.
henchmen serve "White Walker" Johnny Walker scotch, Game of Thrones chardonnay and red wine, along with many other cocktail choices, some served out of chalices. The great white Weirwood tree, from the godswood of Winterfell, spreads its branches in the entryway, with periodic snowfalls. Crazy, right?! Then, you move around the corner and there it is, the Iron
Mother of Dragons wanna be.
Throne in all its majesty, just like you remembered it. I couldn't wait to sit on it and feel the power. Cersei, I'm coming for you! Upstairs is another complete GOT
Final Throne Chicago
experience, this time inspired by Littlefinger's lair (brothel) on the Street of Silk in King's Landing–dragon alert here! The decor makes you feel like you're there–everything is bathed in red and very, very decadent. Loved, loved, loved it! The dungeon downstairs houses the wicked Night King, all 8 feet of him–another perfect photo opp. I'm telling you, I just about lost my mind here! Can you tell? I can't wait to go back and bring friends. WINTER is DEFINITELY HERE, Final Throne Chicago, 809 W. Evergreen Ave., 312.535.3355. (Take a video tour here with Daenerys, Drogo and me!)
Chicago seems to be exploding with new restaurants and, as much as this pleases me, it hasn't been so good for my waistline, yet, I soldiered on. We tried my favorite of the bunch (so far), Ocean Prime, a hot steakhouse and seafood restaurant located at 87 E. Wacker Drive on the 2nd floor of LondonHouse. From the elegant, chic decor to the delicious menu (created by executive chef Jason Shelley), the place was perfect in every way. A beautifully
Ocean Prime
appointed bar was packed with laughing guests with corner views to die for. The space features four private dining rooms with stunning views of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue. The Wrigley Room accommodates up to 66 guests or can be divided into 3 smaller spaces. For a
Ocean Prime's beautiful art deco inspired decor.
more intimate dining experience, the Tribune Room accommodates up to 14 guests in an elegant wood-paneled space. Our server Heather was excellent and pointed out popular dishes like the variety of fish choices that ranged from blackened snapper to Florida grouper to Chilean sea bass, all prepared in a unique style by the chef. Sides were equally delicious and included smoked gouda tater tots, lobster mashed potatoes, parmesan truffle fries, white truffle caviar deviled eggs, goat cheese ravioli and so much more. There's even an extensive
And you run into just the nicest peeps there too–with Whitney Reynolds, her husband David Heiner and my Chuck.
selection of sushi as well as a raw bar. Just for fun, Heather brought us a signature cocktail "Berries & Bubbles", a complicated concoction of Belvedere citrus vodka, marinated berries, fresh lemon and Domaine Chandon Brut, all bubbling over with dry ice and smoke. It was so cool! We can't wait to go back! Congratulations to GM Louis Morgan III, Crystal Lining (sales and event manager), Maureen DeLuca (dining room manager) and, of course Chef Jason. It was a winner–delightful experience in a magnificent setting! Ocean Prime has 16 locations across the country and is open for lunch and dinner. 312.428.4344.
PMT's 25th anniversary chairs Bill Kurtis, Donna La Pietra Kurtis and Deann and Rick Bayless.
Porchlight Music Theatre celebrated 24 years and announced its 25th Anniversary Co-Chairs at its ICONS Gala brunch on March 31 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. The event set a new attendance record with 300 guests and broke fundraising records for Porchlight’s artistic and educational programs. The elegant brunch, chaired by Tamara Sims, included performances from Chicago’s leading talents that celebrated the legendary career of Jerome Robbins; the presentation of The Luminary Award to Jean Klingenstein and the introduction of the 25th Anniversary Chairs– Rick and
PMT artistic director Michael Weber, Commissioner of Chicago's Dept. of Cultural Affairs & Special Events Mark Kelly and PMT exec. dir. Jeannie Lukow.
Deann Bayless and Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra. Since it was a Porchlight special event, music and performances took center stage with David Fiorello, pianist and vocalist,
Billy Marovitz, Asia Gajderowicz, Julian and Rhona Frazin (PMT board member).
serving as musical director with Yulia Block on the drums and Lara Regan on reeds. Fiorello and the band performed Jerome Robbins-inspired numbers beginning with one of the stars of Porchlight’s recent hit A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder,Andrés Enriquez, singing “Something’s Coming” from West Side Story. Executive director Jeannie Lukow welcomed guests and shared a recap of Porchlight's stellar year that
PMT Young Professional Committee members Becca Sheehan, Cody Czymr and Carolyn Isaac.
included the critical, audience and financial successes of Gypsy starring E. Faye Butler and the aforementioned A Gentleman’s Guide; the highest number of subscribers in
PMT exec. dir. Jeannie Lukow, 2018 Luminary Award recipient Jim Jensen and 2019 Luminary Award winner Jean Klingenstein with PMT artistic dir. Michael Weber.
Porchlight’s history and the expansion of its educational programming in Chicago’s public schools. The Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department of Cultural and Special Events Mark Kelly spoke about the Year of Chicago Theatre and how Porchlight's productions reflect Chicago’s place as a performing arts leader on a global scale. Artistic director Michael Weber spoke about
Husband/wife performers Shanna VanDerwerker and Justin Brill.
Robbins’ storied life and career including videos and photos of him and the many productions he was affiliated with including On the Town.
PMT Board of Directors.
The tribute to Klingenstein began with multi-Jeff Award-winning Donica Lynn singing “One,” from A Chorus Line with the 300+ crowd joining in a musical salute to this year’s award recipient. Jeff-Award winner and star of Porchlight’s Gypsy, E. Faye Butler, performed “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from the Robbins musical that brought the crowd to their feet. Lucy Godinez and Michelle Lauto ended the brunch with their rendition of “A Boy Like That” from West Side Story. (Photos by Michael Courier).
With GDC dancers Zachary Heller, Jacob Frazier, Ashley Downs, Katie Rafferty and Adam Houston.
Giordano Dance Chicago blew the doors off the spring fashion show presentation held at Saks Fifth Avenue (Michigan Avenue) on April 11. Matt Brown, Saks VP and general manager, welcomed guests. He was a former
Richard Weinberg, GDC artistic dir. Nan Giordano and Michael Caputo.
"Dancing with the Giordano Stars" participant and, not only does he know his fashion but he knows dance too! Nena Ivon, a longtime Saks fashion director and author of Nena's Notes, produced the show that included dancers, models and former Star participants Christine D'hondt
With show producer Nena Ivon and her fabulous models.
and her husband Chris D'hondt, Joe Brown, Kip Helverson (board president) and Dr. Stacie McClane. The dancers opened the show and performed throughout as well as participating as models. Their "Momentum" number awed the crowd and had everyone hooting and clapping along. (See it here!) (Don't miss a GDC performance, click here for info!)
The Millennium Park room, a fab new event space at the Peninsula.
Congrats to the award-winning Peninsula Chicago! While many are lamenting the loss of its beautiful bar on the lobby level, fear not! A brand new, elegant event space has taken its place. Millennium Park will seat 135 or so for that
Debut party entertainment provided by Ken Arlen.
perfect party. The oversized fireplace and windows overlooking the city will make this your go-to destination for after-parties, private events and more. A private debut party featured delicious food by the Pen's master chefs, beautiful decor by Kehoe Designs and great music by Ken Arlen performers. (Take a video tour here with an intro by the Pen's PR whiz Susan Ellefson!)
Hall of Fame baby! I was so thrilled to receive the news that BizBash, a national industry magazine and event platform, chose me as an inductee into its 2019 Hall of Fame! The ceremony will take place at the Museum of Science & Industry on Wednesday, May 15. The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Barbara Lee Cohen (Productions USA). I will be honored along with Lori Adlesick (Choose Chicago), Jack Luft (Hall's Rentals), Karen Malone (HIMSS) and Michael Nishi and Carey Pinkowski (Chicago Event Management). The Rising Star Award will be presented to Morgan Bucciferro (Chicago Cubs). I am beyond thrilled! #InviteOnly
The Anixter Center will host its 8th annual Benefit for Ability Celebrating a Century of Service on Wednesday, May 15 at the 1914 Club at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison). Chaired by Dominick Mondi, the event will honor the Anixter Family for its commitment to serving those with disabilities. (For tickets, more info, click here.)
On Friday, May 16, join the Woman's Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital for its 3rd annual Chicago Antiques + Art + Design Show opening night benefit. The show will feature over 75 dealers exhibiting fine antique furniture, decorative and fine arts and more at the Merchandise Mart (May 17th through 19th). For tickets, more info, click here!
On Saturday, May 4, the Alexian Brothers Foundation will host "Bal de Fleur" at Rockwell on the River (3057 N. Rockwell). Funds raised will go towards the Foundation's AMITA health initiative which provides access to programs and services for behavorial medicine, homelessness, chronic illness, the autism spectrum and developmental disorders, when and where people need it. (For tickets, more info, click here!)
The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center will host its 25th annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, May 7 at the Hilton Chicago. The event will feature Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN Special Envoy on Climate Change. Funds raised will support service programs supported by the WB of Rush University Medical Center. (For tickets, more info, click here!)
Huge congrats are in order for Chicago's own Howard A. Tullman, tech guru/serial entrepreneur/author/and all-round nice guy. His latest book, "You Can't Win A Race With Your Mouth: And 299 Other Expert Tips From a Lifelong Entrepreneur" is a must-read! Filled with tips, truths and advice, this book is the ultimate "source" for business and life in general. And even though Howard is always several steps ahead of anyone I know, the book is straight-forward and easy to read. (To purchase, please click here. You will be doing yourself a favor, believe me).
Are you a model or an actress who is tired of the old way of doing business? Well, there's a new game in town and it's quite a disruptor. Welcome Agent, a brand new platform that puts the talent in charge. Establish your own rate, monitor and update your page and even RATE your clients/bookings! I love this new idea and am behind it 100% (as a matter of fact, I'm already signed up). I sat down for a chat with its creator, Mark Willingham, at RL the other day and I loved what I heard. He was in town doing press for this new idea and was introduced to me by the Tribune's Larry Wert, who also backs the platform. "We're interested in providing a safer, more transparent environment for both the talent and client," Willingham said. I think this is an idea whose time has come. Currently, the platform is available in L.A., NYC, Miami, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, San Diego, Seattle and now Chicago. Check out all the details here, see video below and let me know what you think!
Beautiful birthday lady Jennifer Sutton Brieva celebrating at Marchesa.
One of Chicago's most popular girls-around-town, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, celebrated her Golden Birthday (50th) at the posh restaurant Marchesa recently with a room full of friends and family. Hosted by her handsome hubby, Dr. Joaquin Brieva, the event was all Old Hollywood Glamour put together by a "dream
Party girls!
team" of event professionals including Debi Lilly (A Perfect Event), Kathryn Alevera and Jason Clark (Marchesa) and beloved photog Mila Samokhina. Jennifer's passion for the Golden Era of Hollywood inspired everything from "gold" place settings accompanied by a framed photo of a silver screen legend to the music. Cole Porter and George Gershwin favorites were performed by
Party boys!
one of Chicago's popular bandleader's Bill Pollack. A three-tiered show stopper cake was prepared by Toni's Patisserie and topped off the decadent dinner designed by Michelin-starred Chef Didier. Once the dining and
Jennifer with Todd Hatoff and hubby/host Dr. Joaquin Brieva.
toasts came to a close, the group ascended downstairs to continue celebrating in The Cave with local celebrity mixologist Nikki Friar for drinks and dancing to 70s and 80s music. It was a magical evening for all and the perfect soiree for a classic beauty who loves to dance! “At this point in my life I
Elegant cake by Toni's Patisserie and floral decor and design by Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event.
know who and what matters most. I’ve stopped trying to fit into anyone else’s version of who they think I should be – what to believe or who to like. I'm grateful for loyal friends, support of family, the unconditional love of my cat and a true partnership with the love of my life who holds my hand
Julia Jacobs, Jennifer's gorgeous mother SharonAnn Louden, Lori Allen, Jen and Julianne Glatz.
through it all,” Jenny said. Guests, who flew in from all over to attend, included Sharon Ann Louden, David Sutton II, David Sutton III, and Lonnie Sue Sutton from Colorado; John and Julianne
Jennifer with JP Anderson, Michigan Ave Mag's editor-in-chief.
Donohue from Canada; Kelley McCarthy from St. Louis and Jodi Wilmot from Cleveland. Chicago guests included Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff, Christopher Dovalina, Verne Thomas, J.P. Anderson, Steven Hearn, Julia Jacobs, Lori Allen, Tammy Kohl, Leah Chavie, Norma Rixter, Ben Soldinger, Kimberly and Jeffrey Postma, Diala and Henry Joseph, Martha and Magnus Ottenborn, and Lisa and Jeremy Kerman. Love and Happy BD dear Jenny!
Don't forget to mark your calendars now for "RETROSPECT," a brand new vintage fashion experience brought to you by the same cool folks from Randolph Street Market ! The event will include a preview of "Funny Face" at the Music Box Theatre on May 2, an upscale vintage market (May 3/4 and a killer fashion show (May 3), produced by Nena Ivon (Nena's Notes)! Join us! All the exciting details here!
Chris Renk and his Banner & Witcoff team after receiving Impact Case of the Year Award in NYC.
Congrats are also in order for Chris Renk, principal senior partner at the law firm Banner & Witcoff. He and his team were recently awarded with the Impact Case of the Year Award for their work representing Converse in its trademark battle against entities selling knock-off versions of the company’s iconic Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker. Kudos Team Renk!
That's it for this week! I hope you've endured our extreme weather changes in APRIL?! One day, we were laying in the sun and the next
WTF?
day, building snowmen! Also, don't forget, if you have something exciting to share, send it my way: candacejordan@rcn.com and, if not a subscriber, please sign in here! (My list is never shared, only treasured).
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile…..I could watch this allllll day long!
Plus CHANEL's perfect, private opening party; Costume Council's "Shall We Dance"; Borris' touching #TRAPPED show; "Hope Through Caring" Gala; Alzheimer Association's "Key to the Future"; Ravinia's cover boy; CS/Modern Luxury Datebook launch; Celebrating Paul; Collector's Call debuts; Sabrina's "Adventures of Kameron"; Chicago Fashion Week with FashionBar; UNICEF at the Geraghty; BEST event listings; Darling videos and so much MORE! _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
President Award recipient John Robak, Myrna Farmer, Cynthia Calk, Stephen Cattouse and Bethany Florek
Face the Future Foundation (FFF) held its annual gala at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on March 23. This year’s event, themed "Under the Big Top," attracted 370 people and raised nearly $600,000 (including a generous $50,000 donation from the Chicago Title Bowl-a-thon fundraiser.) Gala proceeds benefit the UI Health Craniofacial Center for the care and treatment of children with cleft lip, cleft palate and other craniofacial conditions, for research and education and
Aerialist artist Bobbi Reed amid decor by Tamar Productions.
support other Foundation initiatives. The black-tie affair began with a lively pre-dinner reception and a silent auction that featured nearly 100 items. The ballroom was draped in billowy red and white sheer fabric
Scholarship recipient Emily Cihla with parents Karen Olenski and David Cihla
tented across the ceiling for a “big top” effect (by Tamar Productions). In the center of the room, the Ringmaster lead circus-style acts that entertained guests before dinner. John C. Robak, president of Greeley and Hansen, received the President’s Award for his ongoing commitment to help change the lives of Chicago-area children and for his ardent support of the Foundation and its mission. Board member Mary Ann Rose introduced Robak, who said,
Emcee Lourdes Duarte and Matt McGrath.
“Face the Future Foundation is truly a worthy cause, because of the incredibly profound way that it helps to make a better life for children with craniofacial differences, as well as their families.” Foundation president Rob Grant introduced the Adrienne L. Green scholarship recipient Emily Cihla who was born with Treacher
Kimberly and Christopher Gosell.
Collins Syndrome, an uncommon genetic condition. A few weeks after her birth, Dr Pravin Patel saw her for the first time, and performed emergency surgery to help her breathe. Emily, who has undergone multiple reconstructive procedures, will need treatment for the rest of her life. She attends the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she is currently a freshman, and plans to use the $5,000 scholarship award for continuing education. During her acceptance speech, Emily remarked, “I am very grateful for the care I've received from all my medical professionals at the Center who have helped get me where I am today. I'd also like to thank Face the
Lois Pike and daughter Abby Pike.
Future Foundation whose support has made many of my treatments possible and now, with this scholarship award, my educational endeavors. They have been an integral part of my past and now are a part my
Regina Rice, Florence Mussat MD, Aline Delpierre and Joy Degani.
future.” (Read more of Emily’s story here.) The appeal video featured Abigail Pike, who was born with cleft lip and palate and adopted from China as an infant. It touched on her personal struggles with accepting her appearance, her feelings of insecurity and inferiority and an unwillingness to smile. With the help of her team of doctors and medical professionals, and the additional surgeries she has undergone to correct the issues, she has blossomed into a smiling 16-year-old. (Click here for the appeal video.) The Craniofacial Center’s director, Mimis Cohen MD, expressed his gratitude to the Foundation. (Photos by David Turner)
Designer Borris Powell bares his soul at his "Trapped" fashion show.
On March 24 at the Drake Hotel one of Chicago's most beloved fashion designers bared his soul through his #TRAPPED collection. It was an exciting fashion moment, as all of Borris Powell's' runway shows are, but it also came with a touchingly honest revelation on the life he's led. As a sellout crowd enjoyed his latest looks, a new line that transcends seasons and instead embraces them all (his Trans Season Collection), no one was aware of the pain Borris had kept from even his closest friends. In Borris' own words, "I feel that while this is my most favorite collection that I've ever designed, it was the most hurtful at the same time. I personally was going through a lot of disappointment, heartache, shame, feeling of loneliness, and so much more that started to lead to a bit of depression. For way too long I would hide these feelings out of shame, or the fact that I thought I would scare friends and clients away. Going to different events and being out, I got very good at acting as if I was on top of the world and I was living the
Borris and makeup artist Kim prepare for the show.
most amazing life. You know what they say. 'Fake it until you make it' or 'Keeping up with the Jones.' Living the constant lie and then coming back to my reality became unbearable for me. Before too long, I was living a #trapped life. Pretending to be what everyone had come to expect me to be based on the type of garments that I make and the events that I attend, was eating at me. Because that was far from the life that I was truly living. There was a time that I was living out of a car that my
The collection was for all sexes and spanned all seasons.
dad had given me. See, I didn't even have an address, but yet I was attending lavish events and brushing shoulders with some of the most wealthiest. At times, at these events, it could have been my only true meal that day. It was 8 months living like this before I was able to climb my way out of the darkness. But the damage had
Borris promoting his fashion show on TV and smiling through the pain.
already been done. It would take me some time to be able to direct this hurt and pain that almost took me down a path of no return and make it into a message. I have to give credit to music once again for saving my life. One day I heard a song that grabbed me. Then that song led me to two more. Ultimately, these three songs started to give me a sense of purpose. From there, visions. Then it started to make more and more sense. I was feeling trapped within a life that I worked so hard to build." He added, " I just hope that by me telling my truth, I can help take some of the shame away and save someone else that might
The "Borris" bag–GIMME!
not see a way out, and or, make more of us aware of the hurt that our loved ones are going through. If we pay closer attention, maybe we can save someone that isn't as strong in that moment, or doesn't have an outlet to work out the darkness." (For 24 hour depression helpline, click here) The collection and Borris received multiple standing ovations. There were lots of tears but Borris is coming out of the darkness and taking his true place in the world–a place where love is more important than money and the truth will always set you free. Love and thank you for your honesty Borris. I bet there are more people living like this than you know. You are never alone. (Save October 19 for Borris' next big show!)
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted "Shall We Dance," the opening night gala of the Museum's new fashion exhibition, Silver Screen to Mainstream: American Fashion in the 1930’s and 40’s. More than 150 guests attended the event on April 5 which included an elegant ballroom dance performance by the popular Megan and Igor Afonkin. Guests also enjoyed music
Kathleen Haines-Finley– a vision of style.
by Michael Lerich and His Orchestra. The event raised over $100,000 in support of the Costume Council’s commitment to the Chicago History Museum and was co-chaired by Pamella Capitanini, Karen Peters and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The fashionable event included a champagne
Co-chair Richard Weinberg and his dance partner.
reception and a first-look at the exhibit. The Costume Council supports the Museum’s world-renowned costume collection, which contains over 50,000 pieces dating from the 1750s to the present and, if you haven't visited, you're really missing out. Its holdings encompass garments worn by prominent Chicagoans and Americans. Unique pieces include personal items belonging to Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, Michael Jordan's basketball uniform and Mahalia Jackson's choir robe. The earliest pieces
Always handsome guest Mark Olley!
include suits worn by George Washington and John Adams. The Museum's extensive couture holdings, ranging from Charles Worth gowns to the innovative designs of Yohji Yamamoto, have earned an international reputation. (All
Beautiful co-chair Pam Capitanini (center) and friends.
The Les Turner ALS Foundation hosted its annual Hope Through Caring Gala on March 9 at Rockwell on the River in Chicago. Nearly 450 people helped honor Mindy Evans-Williams and Robert L. Sufit, MD, raising $617,000 for the foundation. The gala featured a video presentation, paddle raise, balloon raffle, award presentations and music by The Chicago Players. Emcee Paul Lisnek (of WGN-TV) opened the evening’s program followed by heartfelt remarks from Les Turner ALS Foundation’s CEO Andrea Pauls Backman and board chair Ken Hoffman. Andrea and Ken spoke of the
Josh Newsome, Andy Jordan and cute friend.
Foundation’s role in the lives of those affected by ALS and thanked the 21 men and women living with ALS who were in attendance. “We were honored to be joined by so many people living with ALS and are grateful to everyone we serve for trusting us with their care,” said Backman. “People living with ALS and their families are the spirit of what we do, and every decision we make and step forward we take is informed by and because of them. They are our constant motivation to put an end to this devastating disease.” Auctioneer Wade Leist led the crowd in an exciting and highly successful paddle raise that realized over $243,000. Mindy was diagnosed with ALS in September of 1992 and has received support
Laurie Fieldman, Mindy Evans-Williams (honoree) and friend.
and resources from the Foundation. To show her
Paul Lisnek (R) and friends.
appreciation and to help others facing their own unique experiences with ALS, Mindy generously pays it forward with gifts and donations to the Foundation. She was presented with the Hope Through Caring Award by her longtime friend and social worker with the Foundation, Laurie B. Fieldman, LCSW. The program included an additional award presentation, the first-ever Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS, which was given to Robert Sufit, MD. Throughout his 27 years as a neurologist at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine, Rob has helped thousands of families affected by ALS and has demonstrated a commitment to creating individualized treatments and furthering research through more than 90 scientific publications.
On April 9, Oak Street was abuzz as Chanel hosted an official private party to celebrate its gorgeous new location at 65 E. Oak Street. I suspect this Tuesday night event was the first of many for the store but it was a thrill to be included for this one that attracted a lot of familiar faces. Black-clad name checkers made sure no one who wasn't invited slipped inside the door. Inside, Champagne on silver
Chanel Takeover at Le Colonial.
trays and caviar topped hors d'oeuvres were passed through the well-heeled throng. Designed by Peter Marino, the space is a work of art–all black, white and silver sleekness with a restroom that belongs in the Louvre, pink slabs of marble on all four walls
Chuck enjoying Le Colonial's exquisite bar.
with not a seam in sight. Oh my. A dinner followed next door at Le Colonial–Chicago's newest hotspot–where the always darling Nate Berkus and his husband were seen dining earlier in the week. The entire restaurant was a "Chanel Takeover” with gorgeous white flowers topping the tables. It was a beautiful space that I had only seen packed on a regular, open-to-the-public night. With less people, I was
Julianna Zobrist wearing light-up Chanel sandals.
able to truly appreciate how magnificent this restaurant is from the cherry wood and zinc bars that had to be airlifted through the windows to the exquisite
Beautiful mother/daughter tablemates.
coffered ceiling. And, in true Chanel-perfection-form, the takeaway gift was a 7 ounce bottle of "1957" cologne! To die. Seen on the scene were Toni Canada, clad in a magnificent bejeweled vintage Chanel jacket, Susanna Homan, Liza Schweitzer, Paula Borg, Julianna Zobrist (wearing Chanel light-up sandals), Liz Ryan, Hanah Jubeh, Whitley Bouma-Herbert, Gregg Zgonena and Shaun Moselik and so many others! Huge congrats to owner Joe King–customers who loved the old Le Colonial spot needn't have worried about the change–it's even better than the original!
Dan Murphy, gala chair, and Dr. Maria Carrillo, Chief Science Officer, Alzheimer's Assn.
The Alzheimer’s Association’stop supporters and committee members gathered at the Conrad Hilton Suite at the Hilton Chicago on March 19 for their annual Kick-Off for an intimate research update and conversation with Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer, Maria Carrillo, PHD. The event was held in honor of the 32nd Annual Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala, which is taking place on May 4that the Hilton Chicago. Guests discussed the upcoming
Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Legacy Award recipients, center) with Betsy and Dave Goltermann.
gala event and its theme of “The Key to the Future” – inspired by Paris’ world-famous Pont des Arts (the Love Lock Bridge), bringing together advocates passionate about unlocking a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Joan and Paul Rubschlager, Zenith Society members, were recognized with the Legacy
Philanthropists Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Gala Legacy Award recipients) and valued members of the community.
Award for their ongoing support of the Association's global research program. In 2012, they generously donated $1 million for the efforts and in 2018, they made a second Zenith Society-level investment to support the nutritional counseling and modification component of the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health. The Rubschlagers are much loved members of the community and their support spans across many fields of medical research and the arts. (For gala info, click here!) (Photos by Bill Richert)
Congrats to much loved Nick Pullia, Ravinia's adorable award-winning Director of Communications,
Nick Pullia, Ravinia's Director of Communications, is a cover star!
who was recently featured in the cover story of the Highland Park Neighbors Magazine! The wide ranging article by Paul Clements (with photos by Scott McDougall) covered everything
With Shelita Shaw, Jennifer Schulze, Nick Pullia, Dina Bair and Cheryl Burton.
from Nick's enthusiasm for the arts to his successful "side job" as a screen writer (he's sold two screenplays, including one to Ralph Lauren's producer/son Andrew Lauren). Nick's interests are wide and varied and includes a menagerie of beloved furry friends–a Moluccan Cockatoo, a rescued Scarlet Macaw and Sun Conure. Rescue dogs include a Pyrenees mix, Redtick Coonhound and a harlequin-coated Great Dane. His creativity and joie de vivre are limitless and contagious. It's an honor to call him a friend. Congrats with love Nick!
Co-hosting CS Datebook Launch with David Zivan, Modern Luxury Group Editor/Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago.
Thanks to David Zivan (Modern Luxury Group Editor/ Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago) and Dan Uslan (Modern Luxury Market President) for the privilege of co-hosting your fabulous CS Datebook 2019 Launch Party on March 26. It was a packed house at Truluck's (41 E. Chestnut) for this celebration of Chicago's "charity Bible"! It's
Truluck's managing partner Andrea Gentry and Dan Uslan, Modern Luxury Market President.
my go-to source (after CandidCandace.com, of course!) for all the latest and best event news with fab photos from past charity events. The "source" is a great guide for what's happening around town and it actually serves as a vetting process too so, if your event isn't listed, make sure you contact CS for next year! I co-hosted with David
Hot singer Molly Callinan.
who gave me such an incredible introduction that I wished I'd been wearing waterproof mascara. The entertainment couldn't have been better as the incredible and beautiful Molly Callinan (who also serves as the lead singer for Gary Sinise & Lt. Dan Band!!) sang her heart out onstage. There were welcoming remarks from Dan as well as the managing partner of Truluck's Andrea Gentry. The spring decor and magnificent ice sculpture made the event even more special as we mixed and mingled with friends that included Paul Iacono, Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz (who is soon to be Laura Schwartz Santiago), Michael Caputo, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson,
Michael Caputo
Michael Kutza, John Robak and Bethany, Jennifer Kiefer, Tom Ward, Beth Silverman, Joanna Slusky, Geoff Burton, Adrienne Squires, the Landan Twins, Laurie Dimakos,
With the fab staff of Truluck's, 41 E. Chestnut. (Photo by Jan Salazar)
Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jackie O'Connor, Mila Samokhina and daughter Elena, Heather Farley Ingram, Rhonda Sanderson, Simona Garcia, Nan Giordano, Joshua Blake Carter, Victor Mitchell, Peter Au, Kyle Curry and so many others! It was a great night with friends celebrating the wealth of nonprofits we are lucky to have here in the Windy City! A special shout-out and thanks to Sam Tobias (Modern Luxury Director of Marketing) and her team for making the evening simply perfect!
Popular Paul Iacono celebrates his BD with friends.
I don't know anyone who celebrates birthdays like Chicago's own Paul Iacono (president Chicago Dowel Company) And, it's through no fault of his own, he just has so damn many friends who want to celebrate with him! I bet he goes out every night for a month or more. For this year's fete, Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff planned a very memorable evening that began at Todd's elegant condo on Lake Shore
Party hosts with the most Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff.
Drive. It was all old world elegance combined with modern touches. Multiple views of the lake and the city could be seem from every room that was decorated Art Deco-style with the original moldings and 1920s limestone fireplace intact. Everywhere Todd went, his beloved dog
With Frances Renk, Monica Canellis, Sherry Lea Holson and Lou Canellis at AVLI.
Lucy followed, even placing herself perfectly for the group photo. Lucky guests included Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jeff Shea and his wife Melissa, Chris Renk, Chuck, Sherry Lea Holson, Kadmiel Christmas and Dede Lubeznik. Following cocktails at Todd's, we headed over to the new Lincoln Park hotspot, AvliTaverna(1335 W. Wrightwood). This Greek restaurant is an offshoot of the one in suburban Winnetka, both owned
BD boy Paul Iacono with Jennifer Sutton and Dr. Joaquin Brieva.
by Louie Alexakis. The Lincoln Park spot includes sportscaster Lou Canellis as part of the crew. He greeted us warmly, along with his glam wife Monica (with baby in tow). It's a family spot for sure with delicious dishes that include great small plates and mains like moussaka tselementes (a 1910 casserole recipe of roasted lamb, bechamel, eggplant and potatoes). A Greek Feast BBQ Lamb requires a 24 hour pre-order. Everything was DELICIOUS with a capital D! Happy BD Paul and thanks for Avli, Louis and Lou!
Watch out Antiques Roadshow, a new show debuted Sunday night on Me-TV! "Collector's Call" showcases people with unique collections with a surprising twist at the end! Check it
Our segment will be the season finale on June 23 with Leslie Hindman and Thomas Joyce.
out every Sunday at 9 pm central. (Listings here!) (The show is on RCN channel 14 in Chicago.) AND, mark your calendar for June 23, when my segment is featured as the season finale with Leslie Hindman as a trusty advisor and book appraiser Thomas Joyce!
Best wishes and good luck to my friend/fellow Chicago Now blogger Sabrina Nixon on her latest children's book, "The Adventures of Kameron." This beautifully illustrated book follows the journey of Kameron, a young boy with autism, that is based on the story of her real life son. It helps provide an understanding of this often misunderstood disorder in a fun and colorful manner. (To order, click here) April is Autism Awareness Month!
FashionBar Chicago(Tony Long and team) presented a series of well-attended fashion
With FashionBar's Tony Long and friend.
shows to spotlight Chicago Fashion Week recently. The week started with an Evening Wear collection previewed at Joy District. The following shows were held at Water Tower Place and included
Design by Jackie Holloway-The Jackie O Experience.
a Trans, Media & Fashion, Modern Minimalist, Beautiful Business, Urban Ready Wear and Resort & Swimwear shows. We attended the Trans, Media & Fashion Show that benefited Howard Brown Health Center. Models from the Broadway Youth Center captivated attendees presenting looks from some of Chicago's hottest designers. (JackieHolloway –Jackie O Experience- was a personal favorite!) Don't miss this event next year as FashionBar Chicago "raises the bar" for Windy City style!
Former President George Bush receives the Leadership Prize from ALPLF. (Photo by Ana Miyares)
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation (ALPLF) presented former President George W. Bush with ALPLF’s Lincoln Leadership Prize at the Mariott Marquis Chicago on April 1. While the event was closed to media, you know Candid Candace has her sources! Congrats to former President Bush and thanks RJ Bruce!
Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, with James Gourley.
It was such an incredible night at the Geraghty for UNICEF's12th annual gala. From the interactive installations to the sexy Moroccan vide to the keynote speaker, the event drove the point home about the need to support humanity (children in particular) in crises throughout the world. Speaker Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, spoke about her iconic relative and the impact she had helping children in her role as UNICEF ambassador. See this moving video here and check my Chicago Tribune column for details coming soon!
There are so many worthwhile charities that are hosting yearly fundraisers. Please check out some of my favorites: On Thursday, September 19 (Chuck's birthday), Haute Dog Chicago returns for the 4th year to the Peninsula. Benefiting Canine Companions for Independence, the evening will feature a doggie runway show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions, with lots of local notables! Click here for tickets/more info!
Holiday Heroes' annual gala returns on Thursday, June 13, at Theater on the Lake (2401 N. Lake Shore Drive). This is the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit that benefits hospitalized children in the Chicagoland area and, this year, the Heart of a Hero honoree will be Kristina McGrath. For tickets, more info, click here!
The Ingalls Development Foundation will host its annual benefit on Saturday, June 1, at the Tinley Park Convention Center. The event will raise funds to help improve the health of the Chicago Southland communities served by Ingalls and feature legendary entertainer Smokey Robinson. The night will include a VIP reception, dinner and program. For tickets, $125, and more info, click here!
On Saturday, May 4, the Howard Brown Health Center will present ChiQ, a fundraiser that raises money for the Center's women's services, at the South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive). HBH was founded in 1974 and is now one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) organizations in the country serving more than 35,000 adults and youth each year. For tickets/more info, click here!
The Goodman Theatre will host its annual gala, "Starstruck," on Saturday, May 18, at the Fairmont. The event will benefit the theatre's programming and outreach and feature Tony Award nominee Megan Hilty. (For tickets/info, click here!) Also, mark your calendars for Monday, July 8, the opening night of their big musical revival of "The Music Man"!
The Commercial Finance Association (CFA) will present its "CFA Cares Spring Gala" on Friday, May 10 at the Ivy Room (12 E. Ohio). This year's event will benefit Imerman Angels, a nonprofit that provides one-on-one free cancer support. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
The Chinese American Service League will host its 40th anniversary Spring Gala on Thursday, May 9, at Morgan Manufacturing. This year's event will honor Michael Tang with the Golden Lion award. Thanks CASL for all the good you do in the community! For tickets/more info, click here! (Proud to be a host committee member along with Judy Hsu, Linda Yu, Joanie Lum and others!)
The 2019 Newberry Library Awards Dinner will be held on Monday, May 6. The evening will bid a fond farewell to David Spadafora, president and librarian, and honor Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilynne Robinson for her outstanding achievements and support. For tickets, more info, click here!
The Music Institute of Chicago will honor acclaimed trumpet player, bandleader, composer and educator Wynton Marsalis with the prestigious Dushkin Award at the Four Seasons on Monday, May 20. The celebration will also recognize philanthropic and civic leaders Caryn and King Harris and Susan Charles. For tickets/more info, click here!
The 14th Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism benefit will support the work of the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs on Thursday, April 18, at the Club. The Ring Lardner Award, that honors excellence in sports journalism, will be presented to Peggy Kusinski (NBC 5), Mike Downey and Lacy Banks (posthumously). Presenters will include Linda Yu (ABC-7/Sun-Times) and former Chicago Bull Bill Cartwright. For tickets, $200, and more info, click here!
The "Art of Caring: Compassionate with Purpose" benefit will celebrate 30 years of support by the Catholic Charities of Lake County. The event will be held on Saturday, April 6 at the Armour House Mansion and Gardens and include a gourmet dinner, dancing, music by LFC Entertainment and more! This fundraiser has raised more than $5.8 million and supports 28 lake county programs including Meals on Wheels and Diaper Depot. For tickets/more info, click here!
Olympian Michael Phelps will host a star-studded benefit on May 19.
Olympian Michael Phelps will host "Golf. Give. Gala," an event to benefit his Michael Phelps Foundation on Sunday, May 19, at the Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois. Influential guests will include Patrick Sharp (Blackhawks), Tim Tebow (NFL), Taylor Kinney ("Chicago Fire"), Kerry Wood (Cubs), David Ross (Cubs), Ben Higgins and Colton Underwood ("The Bachelor"), Jeremy Piven (actor), Drew Scott ("Property Brothers") and more! A surprise musical performance is scheduled too! The Foundation supports water-safety, wellness, and goal-setting programs for Boys & Girls Clubs of America members and Special Olympics International athletes. The following day, May 20, Phelps will also host a golf tourney. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
The Driehaus Design Initiative will present the Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence runway show competition on Friday, April 26, at Chicago Vintage Motor Carriage (700 S. Desplaines St.) Produced by ZZAZZ Productions, the designers will be judged by a celebrity panel to determine the winner, who will receive a check for $7,500, the production of a look book and an apparel display at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Neiman's Wendy Krimins will select one designer to receive the Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award that will include a window display at the Michigan Avenue store as well. For tickets/more info, click here!
The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation will host its 13th annual medical briefing luncheon, "Unlocking the Secrets & the Silence" on Wednesday, May 8 at the Casino (195 E. Delaware Pl.) This year's Shining Star Award will be presented to Mary Ellen McGrath in recognition of her support, leadership and commitment to the Foundation. For tickets, $250, and more info click here!
On Friday, May 3, High Jump Chicago (HJC) will present its annual Spring Opportunity Benefit at the Four Seasons Chicago. This is the organization's signature fundraising event to raise funds for tuition-free programs for Chicago middle school students from families with limited financial means. Notable guests will include Meredith Bluhm-Wolf, Priscilla Kersten, Jack Ferro and Michael Episcope. For tickets/more info, click here!
F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment) will host its annual benefit at the Chicago Yacht Club (Monroe harbor) on Saturday, April 13. The evening will feature local artists competing and displaying their extraordinary skills through song and dance, a buffet, dancing and more. For tickets/more info, click here! (This wonderful benefit was founded by Lily Liu of Lily's Talent Agency, of which I'm proudly registered! Kudos Lily!)
And last but not least, please join Michael Caputo and me when we return as co-chairs for Eversight Illinois'Gift of Sight Gala set for Thursday, October 24, back at the Peninsula! We'll be honoring Sherry Lea Holson as the Woman of Vision. We are planning LOTS of surprises so prepare to expect the unexpected at this creative black-tie masquerade party to benefit sight restoration. For tickets/more info, please click here!
I hope you've enjoyed the latest edition! It's thrilling to be able to cover all the wonderful goings on here in our great city (and beyond!) If you have a story to share, please email me at candacejordan@rcn.com and, if not a subscriber, please sign in HERE!
Plus former President Clinton keynotes Illinois Holocaust Museum benefit; Giordano Legacy Ball honors Liz and Matt; Glitz & Glamour; A real life love story; The Main Event; Chicago Light's Gala of Hope; Award-winning Kitchen Chat TV; MoCP's DARKROOM; ULBGC'S Youth of the Year Dinner; Susan is Animaltarian of the Year; Outstanding Woman Award for Carol; FashionBar Chicago's Identity; Lisa's new gig; Chicago House's Rhapsody on the Runway; SOS Children's Villages benefit; RMHC Gala 2019; Emma loves DOGS; Videos and SO much more!
The Flower & Garden Show ended yesterday and I hope you had a chance to see it! A true first look at Spring, the event debuted with "Evening in Bloom," its exciting opening night party that was a welcome introduction to
Design by The Flora Culturist.
warmer weather and the promise of flowers and sunshine! The event attracted over 650 guests to Navy Pier on March 19 where they enjoyed stunning garden vignettes, delicious chef presentations and a unique fashion show, Hort Couture. Themed "Flower Tales: The Story Grows On", the event offered visitors a wide range of experiences, from the unique table presentations at Debi Lilly's DL Party Lab PopUp to various nonprofit displays that included an edible garden exhibit made of sweets created by the kids from After School Matters.
Hedonia Flowers desgin surrounded by admirers.
During the 30 minute fashion show, outfits created entirely from flowers and plant materials were presented by local designers that included Honey Street Flowers, Hedonia Flowers, The Flower Witch, Zins Flower
Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event.
Shop, The Flora Culturist, Plump Chicago Floral and Events, St. Frimpong, Onyx Engobor, A Special Touch, Relics Vintage Rentals, Stodola Flowers and Decor, Soule Garden and Styled-It/Bayerly Breathing. (See finale here!) Congrats to Tony Abruscato (show director) and all involved! Honored to emcee this always exciting event! (Check Chicago Tribunehere for expanded coverage and more great photos!) (Event photos by Mila Samokhina)
Former President Bill Clinton keynoted the Holocaust Museum & Education Center Humanitarian Awards dinner.
It was a jam-packed crowd of over 2000 for the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center's Humanitarian Awards Dinner at the Hyatt Regency on March 31. To say it was an inspiring night is a gross understatement. Former President Bill Clinton was on hand to celebrate the Center's anniversary (he was on hand to open it 10 years ago too) and to honor Holocaust survivors (over 200 were in the audience). The Chicago Sinfionetta Project Inclusion Quartet set the tone for the evening playing soulful
Governor J.B. Pritzker conducted convo with Clinton.
melodies from the film "Schindler's List" as names and images of survivors scrolled across two oversized video screens. The Chicago Children's Choir lent their voices to the evening too singing special renditions of "One Day" (by Matisyahu) and "Hallelujah"
Clinton with Humanitarian Award recipient John Ettelson, CEO William Blair.
(by Leonard Cohen). The highlight of the evening, for me, was the speech delivered by Fritzie Fritzshall (Museum president and Holocaust survivor). Fritzie had spent two years at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp where her mother, two younger brothers and other family members were gassed. (To see this powerful video, click here) Fritzie shared her fears about anti-semitism and the sad fact that
Emcee Bill Kurtis with Museum president Fritzie Fritzshall.
it's still with us today. She urged the audience to "look our for your neighbors, speak out and never forget the Holocaust." John Ettelson, CEO William Blair, was the recipient of the Humanitarian Award. He spoke about the
Susan Abrams–Museum CEO.
Museum's mission to "remember the past and transform the future." Philanthropist Lester Crown introduced Governor J.B. Pritzker who conducted the conversation with Clinton. Their 30 minute convo touched on who helped shape Clinton's life (his maternal grandfather who taught him about civil rights); his greatest accomplishment while in office ("inclusive prosperity"); his biggest regret (not doing more to intervene in the Rwandan genocide) and his biggest fear for our country (cyber security). (To read/see more, check the Chicago Tribune here). (Photos by Mariah Smith)
Giordano Dance Chicago performs at 2nd Legacy Ball.
Congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago on its 2nd annual Legacy Ball! Over 300 supporters enjoyed an evening of surprising dance performances, fun and delicious food, a live auction and a special tribute to two longtime supporters, Liz and Matt Connelly. The dance party on steroids was held at the Ravenswood Event Center, which surprisingly is one of the few venues I
Martin Ortiz, Dina Gallay and Sandy Golub.
hadn't been to before. I loved it! Vintage cars and neon signs from the Hayes Collection lined the walls and circled the floor in this huge space allowing guests a walk down memory lane while they enjoyed the party. Buffets were lavish,
Honorees Liz and Matt Connelly with artistic director Nan Giordano and her son Keenan Casey.
tasty and catered by REC to perfection. The Giordano Dancers thrilled the crowd at every turn performing favorite high-energy numbers throughout the night. Executive director Michael McStraw and artistic director Nan Giordano welcomed the crowd with Nan introducing her friends, the Connellys. A short video surprised the honorees with a special performance dedication. Choreographer Marinda Davis dedicated her
Natasha Overturf, Zachary Heller, Meaghan McHale, Ari Israel and Adam Houston.
world premiere of "Flickers" to the happy and deserving pair. The evening concluded with a performance of "SOUL", choreographed by Ray Leeper, followed by a live auction conducted by Nick Coombs of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers. A highlight of the auction was a chance to star in a production number with the dancers that was won by board member Chris D'hondt for $7,000. Congrats to ALL! (To see/read fuller coverage, check Chicago Tribunehere!)
Gregory Hines and A Silver Lining founder Dr. Sandy Goldberg.
A Silver Lining Foundation hosted its annual "Glitz & Glamour" fashion show and luncheon on March 14 before a sellout crowd at the Peninsula Chicago. The event supported the nonprofit's mission to provide respectful and equal access to cost-free breast health testing through a network of partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations. Founder Dr. Sandy Goldberg's long time vision is to ensure that socioeconomic status doesn't affect an individual's ability to obtain timely breast health testing. The event featured a fashion show produced by ZZAZZ Productions with participating local designers and models bedecked in jewels from A. Marek Fine Jewelry. Designers included Mark Roscoe, Leandro Mulet,
Yvette Klobuchar, ZZAZZ Productions' Tracey Tarantino and designer Mira Horoszowski.
Elda de la Rosa, Ricorso, Tamra Ellingson, Mira Couture, Sylwia Designs and Contessa Bottega. Emcees were Micah Materre and Paul Lisnek with Dr. Sandy serving as the inspiring guest speaker. The evening concluded with a powerful performance by Opal Staples. For more info on this worthy cause, please click here.
Newly engaged lovebirds Kathleen Henson (wearing Escada) and Chris Sarpy.
It was a lovely affair as more than 120 VIPs raised a glass and toasted the whirlwind romance of local PR maven and CEO of Agency H5, Kathleen Henson, and Chris Sarpy, a health-tech sales executive and recent transplant from Dallas at the elegant DL Loft. Guests gathered in the stylish studio space of celeb event planner Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event, who curated an elegant evening of light bites, Champagne
Elegant party venue–DL Loft at 3050 N. Lincoln Ave.
and (the couple’s favorite) particularly potent old fashioneds. When they weren’t congratulating the happy couple, guests snapped photos in front of a floor-to-ceiling white rose flower wall or next to the fireplace, which had been stuffed with white and gold balloons. Henson’s close friends Dorri McWhorter (CEO of the YWCA), Courtney Wright (CEO of Gemini Builds It) Ellie Forman (VP of Community Relations of Mesirow Financial) and Heidy Best (renowned stylist) took the mic to deliver heartfelt (and occasionally tearful)
Debi Lilly, Heidi Best and Whitney Reynolds.
toasts to the betrothed. Henson and Sarpy’s love story is one for the books. The two met in Summer 2018 and quickly hit it off. A dinner in Chicago led to an unusual second date: A weekend getaway in Paris. From there it was time to introduce the families: her five kids (aged 10 thru 19) and his one son, 12. A family vacation to Mexico and countless
Kathleen, Chris and friends.
trips back and forth between Chicago and Dallas later, the pair knew it was real love. They got engaged at the very place they first serendipitously met through a mutual contact when Sarpy dropped to a knee at local hotspot Prime & Provision. The two plan to tie the knot in summer 2019. Guests included Bela Gandhi and husband, Andrew Annacone, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Susanna Homan, Noren
Ungaretti, Rochelle Trotter, Zak Stemer, Whitney Reynolds and husband, David Heiner, Jaime Laurita and husband, Rich Lane, Abigail Zoe Martin and husband, Leo Anguiano, Amy Dordeck and husband, Steve Dolinsky, Jamie-Claire Flaherty, among others. Here's to a lifetime of happiness!!!
The Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicagohosted its 4th annual Patrick J. Ryan Main Event at Drury Lane in Oak Brook Terrace. The ballroom was turned into a boxing ring with a mini-casino for more than 800 guests. Proceeds from this February 1st event directly benefited the Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) Program created for children and youth who have endured the loss of
Amee Kuehlem and Dali Monrejon.
a loved one to suicide. LOSS provides its members with education, therapy, group support and hope for the future.The event was established by former
Patrick J. Ryan Main Event
Attorney General of Illinois Jim Ryan and his wife Marie and their family, after the loss of their son, Patrick J. Ryan, to suicide. Jim and Marie Ryan also served as co-chairs for the event again. Boxing has been a family tradition for the Ryans, starting with Jim Ryan Sr., who won the Middle Weight Golden Glove Championship in 1964. His sons, John (Chief of Staff at Catholic Charities), Jimmy and Matt Ryan, all grew up boxing. The program provides individual, family and group counseling for children and youth, as well as consultation for caregivers and key family members and, since 2010, has supported nearly 300 children. (Photos by John Reilly Photography)
Event co-chairs Brian and Jen Kurth Van Klompenberg.
The Chicago Lights Gala of Hope raised over $700,000 for youth development and social services on March 1 at the Radisson Blu Aqua. Led by co-chairs Brian Van Klompenberg and Jen Kurth
Stacy Jackson, Chicago Lights exec. dir. and Katy Frey Bever.
Van Klompenberg, the gala brought together 500 guests for a night of philanthropy and fun. Stacy Jackson, executive director for Chicago Lights, said, "We believe that every child deserves quality educational opportunities and access to arts learning and that all young people deserve a path to a good job and satisfying career. We believe that adults who have found themselves in the midst of hard times deserve to be treated with dignity as they rebuild their lives." Attendees enjoyed an elegantly-decorated space courtesy of Revel Décor, a seated dinner, a live auction conducted by Ron Magers (for the 14th year in a row!) and dancing to the fabulous Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra (for the 15th year in a row!) The event supports the life-changing youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights, a nonprofit at Fourth Presbyterian Church, that has served over 50,000 people since the inception of its first program and annually serves over 4,000 children, youth, and adults in the city. A portion of the proceeds also benefit the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being at Fourth Presbyterian Church.
Appearing on Kitchen Chat TV with hosts Margaret McSweeney and celeb Chef Jaime Laurita.
What a thrill appearing on the award-winning Kitchen Chat TV show hosted by Margaret McSweeney with celebrity Chef Jaime Laurita! The show was filmed in the elegant Viking Showroom at the Merchandise Mart, which was designed by Laurita as well as other locations across the country. Jaime serves as a brand ambassador and they are very lucky to have this one man dynamo–he does it all from cooking to designing to hosting his own show on TLC, "Make This Place Your Home." I had a blast chatting about my
Best fried chicken recipe from Mama Mary Johnson coming soon!
passions and projects but, the most fun, was cooking with JAIME, who has worked for top stars including Madonna,
Exquisite Viking Showroom designed by brand ambassador/designer/chef/ TV host Jaime Laurita.
Sting, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Prince, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and many more. He's an author, graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has his own Italian food and wine lines. Whew! Anyway, of course I was nervous, but Jaime can make a cat in a room full of rocking chairs feel calm. I'm definitely not a "cook" but I do love to cook and my fallbacks are always things I learned in the kitchen with my Mama Mary Johnson, who was like a second mother to me. She was born in 1903 in Tupelo, Mississippi and taught me all about authentic Southern cooking–dishes that included Navy beans and cornbread, greens, black-eyed peas, fried green tomatoes, fried chicken and so much more. On this day, I even brought her Griswold cast iron skillet from the 1930s as a good luck charm and it worked! My chicken turned out fantastic! It's a simple recipe that I will share when I receive the show video but, suffice it to say, Jaime "Jaime-ized" it to make it even more delectable and I can't wait for you to see it! On another fun note, the show just won TWO Taste Awards recently in Beverly Hills!
Larry Snider, award-winning artist Lalla Essaydi and MoCP chief curator/deputy director Karen Irvine.
The Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College Chicago (MoCP) hosted DARKROOM, its annual benefit auction on February 28 at Venue SIX10. The event brought in over $230,000 to support the museum's exhibitions, collections and community engagement initiatives. Highlights of the night included a conversation
Natasha Egan, Dawoud Bey and Catherine Edelman.
between MoCP chief curator and deputy director Karen Irvine and artist Lalla Essaydi about her photographic contributions. A ceremony honored Essaydi with the Silver Camera Award, followed by a rousing Raise the Paddle, that brought in over $20,000 to support MoCP education
Kristin Taylor, Marisa Murillo and Michal Raz-Russo.
initiatives, including expanded teen programs and a bus subsidy program aimed at bringing more Chicago Public School students to the museum from underserved communities. Co-chaired by Ted Keim and Marisa Murillo, with honorary co-chairs Bill and Vicki Hood, DARKROOM 2019 hosted over 300 guests, who enjoyed a celebration of photography while supporting the Museum of Contemporary Photography, the only museum of its kind in the region. The Museum at Columbia College is the world’s premier college art museum dedicated to photography. As an international hub, the MoCP generates ideas and provokes dialogue among students, artists and diverse communities through groundbreaking exhibitions and programming.
More than 200 guests joined the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs for their annual Youth of the Year Dinner, sponsored by Disney and Toyota, held at the Union League Club of Chicago on February 28. The exciting Clemente Drumline kicked off the evening's festivities that included a program celebrating youth who have overcome enormous odds and
YOY winner Ruben and YOY Jr. winner Jazmine!
demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments. Beginning at the club-level and continuing through the state and regional competitions, BGC members compete for Youth of the Year honors. The five regional winners will meet in our nation’s capital in
Beautiful ballroom at the Union League Club.
September where they will compete for the National Youth of the Year title. This year was extra special because 2019 is the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs BIG 100th anniversary of serving Chicago youth! Winners this year included Ruben, a 17 year-old Barreto Club member, won the ULBGC Youth of the Year and Jazmine, a 13 years-old Wentworth Club member, won the Junior honor. Ruben will represent ULBGC at the state competition. (The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is a separate organization from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. Both are chartered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.) (Francis Son photography)
Congrats to much loved philanthropist Susan Gohl on yet another honor! The Humane Society of Naples honored her with its Animaltarian Award (isn't that adorable?!) for her support of animals in need at the Naples Yacht Club. Susan, you're a wonder! Thanks for all you do for so many! She will also be honored at the Service Club of Chicago's annual Hat Luncheon, this year themed "A Royal Garden Party" on Friday, May 17 at the Drake. More details here!
Honoree Carol DiFrisco with Honorable Dorothy Brown.
Congrats are also in order for Carol DiFrisco who recently received the Outstanding Woman Award at the Daley Center on March 14. In honor of Women's History Month, Carol was presented with the award in honor of her excellence in music and the arts by the Honorable Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Other proud honorees were Regina Taylor, Jackie Taylor, Marti Lyons, Yasuko Oura, Sureya Perez, Myrna Salazar, Kim Stratton and Jimalita Tillman.
FashionBar Chicago will present "Identity," a series of 5 fashion shows and a marketplace, beginning March 31 thru April 7 at Water Tower Place. The Trans Media Fashion show will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Howard Brown Health center and its VOICES program. (For tickets/more info, click here: http://bit.ly/2HnIbsT)
Congrats to the Chinese American Service League on its 40th anniversary of devoted service to its community! Join them at their annual gala on May 9 at Morgan Manufacturing! Tickets/details here!
Join Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter at its annual fundraiser "Wags and Whiskers" on April 9 at Ravinia Green Country Club. The nonprofit will celebrate 91 years of serving Lake County! This event is always a fun night of cocktails, dinner and an amazing silent auction all to fund its mission to shelter orphaned dogs and cats, provide the best care possible and place them into loving, forever homes. Individual tickets are $250 (Sponsorships available). Call the shelter directly to purchase tickets at 847-945-0235.
Huge congrats to the much loved Lisa Fielding! We will be hearing her beautiful voice as the new co-anchor (opposite Keith Johnson) on WBBM Newsradio weekdays from 3-6 pm! So happy we'll be hearing more from her. Woot! Woot!
So excited and honored to be a "Luminary" and brand ambassador for this year's "Dining & Conversation," the May 1 signature fundraiser for SOS Children's Villages Illinois, a nonprofit that provides foster care for at-risk youth. Other "luminaries" will include actors Christian Bale and David Eigenberg , Leslie Hindman, authors Gillian Flynn and Scott F. Turow, Lou Canellis and Star Jones, among others! Celebrity chefs will include Tony Priolo, Ryan Pitts, George Jewell, Dan McGee, Kevin Cuddihee and Graham Crowe, among others. For tickets/more info, click here)#raisingsuperheroes
Little Emma Mertens is a 7-year-old Wisconsin girl who is terminally ill. All she's asking for is letters from dogs! Rooney has already sent his to: Emma Mertens, P.O. Box 230, Hartland, WI 53029. Hope your dog will do the same! Arf! Arf! #EmmaLovesDogs
Don't miss the next Randolph Street Market coming March 30/31! This always delightful adventure in vintage features over 125 vendors offering everything from antiques to fashion to unique accessories and so much more! The RSM is the largest market of its kind in the Midwest. The Indie Designers market boutiques offer unique Chicago-designed fashion direct from local designers. Art, jewelry and decor made by local crafters are also popular at the market. Hope to see YOU there! For tickets, more info, click here!
Celebrating 50 years of PRIDE, Chicago will host the first-ever "Pride in the Park", on June 29 in Grant Park, the event will feature live musical performances by international and local talent, fireworks and more! Get more exciting deets here!
Spring has sprung after, what seemed to be, a verrrrrry long winter! I hope you've packed your heavy coats and boots away and are getting ready for some much needed warmer weather! Here's to an exciting spring in Chicago!
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. Baby elephant discovers his trunk….so adorable! (To find out how you can help save these noble creatures, click here.)
Fun in the SUN; TPAN's Dining Out for Life; PAMS Gala; Retrospect-a new vintage fashion adventure; OnWard at the American Writers Museum; Stanley Paul Foundation Gala; TRAPPED with Borris; Shall We Dance?; Pretty Powerful Women in Philanthropy; CECA's Spring Scholarship Ball; A rare bird; Videos and so much MORE!
BNPCF's Courtney Krupa, Greg Kosinski and founder Kathleen Casey.
cancer research, attracted over 550 guests and raised $750,000 at its exciting 26th anniversary Bear Tie Ball themed “Candy Land” on March 2. Held at the UIC Forum in Chicago, the event was inspired by the whimsical world of the childhood favorite game and co-chaired by Kristine Farra and Michael Palumbo. The evening was a night filled with imagination and sweetness led by mistress of ceremonies Roz Varon, Emmy Award-winning journalist and cancer survivor. Bear Necessities’ founder Kathleen Casey recited a
Gala co-chairs Michael Palumbo and Kristine Farra
letter she wrote for her late son “Bear”, the inspiration for the organization. Emily Crabtree, who has battled pediatric cancer for almost two decades (since she was 17), received the “Tribute to Courage” award. In addition, the William J. Casey Hope Award was presented to The Dalmazio Family of Tony’s Italian Deli & Subs and The Marino Family and Team at Marino Chrysler Jeep Dodge for their continuous support of Bear Necessities. The evening began with a reception where
Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas
Candy Land inspired cocktails such as gumdrop martinis and hors
d’oeuvres including mini pot pies and mac and cheese bites were served. Dinner was followed by a live auction and presentation of nine kid ambassadors who shared their Bear Hugs experiences. The gala concluded with
Tony and Lauren Marino with Maria and Vito Dalmazio
lively tunes from the multi-genre group, Front of House led by singer David Sherman. Guests left inspired to support the mission of ending pediatric cancer and giving hope to those who are affected by it. The Bear Tie Ball brought together
Emcee Roz Varon with Glen Kedzie and Devin Pittges
families, friends and supporters of Bear Necessities to celebrate the lives saved and medical breakthroughs made amidst another successful year. All funds raised will benefit pediatric cancer research grants through Bear Discoveries and memories
BN founder Kathleen Casey with board member Paul Iacono.
through Bear Hugs. The Bear Hugs Program supports cancer patients (ages 0 –19) and their immediate families that face the many challenges that accompany the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancer. Bear Necessities outreach serves both in-state and out-of-state children who are being treated at one of 16 Illinois-area hospitals with pediatric oncology departments. A Bear Hug is a customized
Nicki and Bob Fioretti
experience that brightens the life of a child going through cancer. The Bear Hugs Program also provides immediate family support for financial burden
Emily Crabtree–Tribute to Courage Award recipient
and essential needs. Each year, Bear Necessities awards medical research grants nationwide to junior investigative researchers who make meaningful advancements and discoveries towards finding a cure and therapies for various types of pediatric cancer. (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
As much as we love Chicago, it can be a nasty task master in the winter, so we welcome any chance to spend some time in the sun. This year, we finally made it back to our favorite
With Chuck, Leslie Hindman and Betsy Ahern at Renato's
warm weather destination, Florida, for some much needed time with friends in a much more forgiving climate. The moment the sun hits
Rooney fitting in in Palm Beach!
your face, it feels like you've been touched by an angel. Our first stop in Palm Beach was to one of our favorite spots, Maven (in the former Nick & Johnny's location at 207 Royal Poinciana Way). We loved their menu and the outdoor dining location couldn't be sweeter. The plane trip was a little challenging as Rooney seems to be getting a little antsier in his old age–he
With Kim Renk Dryer and Chuck at Sant Ambroeus in Palm Beach.
turned 14 while we were there but that's another story for later. We love Palm Beach–the elegance, the perfectly manicured hedges and so much more. Our friend Leslie Hindman is a star there and it was
With Leslie Hindman exploring unique neighborhoods in West Palm Beach
fun basking in her glow everywhere we went. Her home, a half block from the ocean, should be in Architectural Digest it's so chic! Another friend, Kim Renk Dryer, is also uber-connected, so we had a full dance card while we were there. We had a chance to visit two very exclusive clubs–the first was the Palm Beach Bath & Tennis Club (1170 S.
Kips Bay Show House in Palm Beach
Ocean) (known affectionately as the B & T to locals). The beautiful club took our breath away with its old world elegance and is considered one of the finest private beach clubs in the world. According to founder Mrs. E. F. Hutton, born Marjorie Merriweather Post. "It is the first cabana club in this country." Located on nearly 500 feet of palm-
Chuck at Palm Beach Bath & Tennis with its patron Marjorie Merriweather Post's portrait
shaded oceanfront on the Atlantic, the club was built in 1924 adjacent to Hutton's Mar-a-Lago estate, both designed by architect Joseph Urban. The Friday night BBQ was divine. Every table near the beach was filled and the buffet was lavish and delicious. The artwork was, as you can imagine, outstanding and fine, especially the beautiful portrait of its patron MMP overlooking the entrance. Another
Charming AERIN boutique at 33 Via Mizner, Palm Beach
real treat was visiting another private club, Club-Colette (215 Peruvian Ave.) where Leslie is a much loved member. The club has
Thanks for the memories PB!
a very interesting history. According to Palm Beach Post writer Joe Forzano, the “Colette” behind Club Colette was Colette Henry, a petite Frenchwoman known as “Mademoiselle Colette,” who presided over a tony beauty salon and restaurant just a block from busy Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. She had been a freedom fighter in the French underground during World War II, hiding French soldiers and helping Jews reach the Swiss border to escape. Caught by the Nazis, she was
The chic private Club Colette in Palm Beach.
incarcerated near the Adriatic Sea for almost a year before escaping. She came to the
Fisher Island fun with Jan Melk.
United States in 1947, first to New York. Her father had
Dramatic Fisher Island sunset.
operated a small restaurant in France and she had helped him. She had wanted to become a teacher, but when her older sister became a hairdresser she followed the same career. She had worked as a hairdresser in Paris and on the Riviera. Her uncle Henry managed the Cartier shop in Palm Beach,
The beautiful Le Sirenuse restaurant at the Surf Club, Surfside, Fla.
so she moved to Florida and in 1949, opened her first shop on Peruvian Avenue. After discovering that her salon customers couldn't resist her homemade French goodies, she opened Club Colette in 1964 with money borrowed from friends. The private club attracted names such as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, the Phippses and
At Le Sirenuse in Miami Beach with Pepe Conforme, Ken Norgan, Jan Melk and Chuck.
Kennedys. Membership is exclusive; potential diners have to be recommended by a member. In 1982, she sold the club to Aldo Gucci. The club is intimate, charming, elegant and cozy with low
Celebrating Rooney's 14th BD at Estiatorio Milos in South Beach
ceilings, perfect lighting and a beautiful long mahogany bar. On the night we went, every table was filled despite the torrential downpour raging outside. Chuck, Rooney and I also loved strolling down Worth Avenue and visiting all of the charming side streets (known as vias) where delightful surprises and shops await. I particularly loved the perfectly curated AERIN
A whimsical gelato/candy store in West Palm Beach, Oh, My Chocolate at 219 S. Olive.
boutique, located at 33 Via Mizner and owned by Aerin Lauder. It is small but contains the most exquisite one-of-a-kind treasures and fashions. Another favorite is Henemader's, a jewel box filled with natural finds at 316 S. County Road. Tony Duquette would LOVE it! And, of course, another favorite and my go-to-source for capri pants, Palm Produce Resortwear (located at 217 Royal Poinciana Way). Sequin, one of my favorite costume jewelry/accessories stores, has two beautiful locations (one at 219 Worth Ave, right next to Ta Boo and another at 330 S. County Rd.) And there are so many dining options but, sadly, we didn't
Enjoying Biscayne Island with Adam Vitale, Chuck, Ken Norgan, Pepe Conforme and Matt Olaveson.
have time to make them all. We loved Sant Ambroeus, a gorgeously appointed Italian restaurant located in Royal Poinciana Plaza. We will definitely go back to this one! After spending an amazing time in PB, we moved on to South Beach and Fisher Island. For the first time, we took the leisurely drive down A1A
Dramatic views of downtown Miami from Biscayne Island condo.
along the ocean and avoided the expressway. We had a convertible which made this drive even more magical as we drove past magnificent mansions (a peek beyond the hedges so to speak) that included estates once owned by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, (El Solano), the Kennedys (La Guerida), Estee Lauder, Henry Kravis, Steve Wynn, Dr. Mehmet Oz,
Mira Five Stars should be Mira Two Stars in Miami Beach.
prolific author James Patterson and so many more. We stayed on Fisher Island as guests of Jan Melk, a longtime friend, who is busier now than she's ever been. On the night we arrived, she was hosting a reception for a new theater company where she's
Moon over Palm Beach.
recently become a board member. They performed "Antigone" in her dramatic living room before a crowd of 50 who were in awe of her elegant new home. On the first night there, we enjoyed dinner with friends Ken Norgan and Pepe Conforme, along with Jan, at Le Sirenuse at the Surf Club in Surfside. (9011 Collins Ave.) The restaurant and grounds are spectacular with old world charm mixed with a contemporary vibe. The combination was spectacular with soaring ceilings,
Chuck matching the blossoms off Worth Ave. in Palm Beach.
dramatic lighting and intimate dining seating. We loved everything about it, including the exceptional menu where everything was made from scratch. Delish! We also loved Estiatorio Milos, a fine Greek restaurant located at 730 1st Street (south of Fifth). This elegant seafood spot is where Rooney Rules celebrated his 14th birthday. I loved the fact that they didn't mind having dogs inside the restaurant as opposed to only allowing them on the patio. One spot that you can avoid in South Beach, however, is Mira Five Stars (located at 801 S. Pointe Dr.) It should be called Mira TWO Stars….despite the beautiful decor, the service was spotty and the food was nothing to write home about. It was also very odd that on a Saturday night in a prime location (a block from Joe's Stone Crab), there were
Rooney reflecting on his fun in the sun.
only five tables filled. The oddest thing was that no one there seemed to care either. The hostess did double duty fileting fish (and not very well as they were loaded with bones). It was a weird night (although with delightful company, Ken, Pepe, Adam Vitale and Matt Olaveson) but we definitely won't be going back to this one. As always, we hated to leave and the trip to the airport made us rethink our roadtrips here, definitely much less stressful. There were 3 gate changes, each miles apart, before we ever boarded the plane back to Chiberia! Until next time, love and thanks to Leslie and Jan for making our trip so memorable!
With Oliver Badgio, Kathleen Henson and Jeff Mastro.
I was honored to co-host the first annual Pretty Powerful Women in Philanthropy event at Steak 48 with the fabulous Kathleen Kenehan Henson. Through her dynamic PR agency H5, the planning for this first time event was a labor of love that celebrated Chicago's most
Rebecca Darr, Blanche Roberts, Ashley Howard and Dorri McWhorter.
charitable women. Over 100 ladies came together at this tribute to philanthropy and included Dorri McWhorter, Myra Reilly, Heather Owen, Kathleen Casey, Maureen Schulman, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Laura Schwartz, Mimi Plauche, Rochelle
Mimi Plauche, Chaz Ebert, Sonia Evans, Vivian Teng and Jackie O'Connor.
Ashley Howard, Lara Melnik, Susan Goodenow, Jamie-Clare Flaherty, Joycelyn Winnecke, Susanna Homan, Brenda Arelano, Courtney Krupa, Kristina Farra, Chaz Ebert, Jackie
Diane Hollingsworth, Dr. Sandy Goldberg and Brenda Arelano.
O'Connor, Vivian Teng, Susan Ahern, Nancy Gianni, Brenda Wolf, Eve Montoya, Celena Roldan, Virginia McGathey, Amy Carr and so many others. Collectively, the women in the room have raised a whopping $200 million for charities in Chicago. Every guest was gifted with an inspirational book written by Carol Lavin
With Amy Carr and Joycelyn Winnecke.
Bernick, "Gather As You Go," a book whose sales benefit her nonprofit, Enchanted Backpack, that serves under-resourced elementary and middle school students and child-focused organizations in the Chicagoland area.
With Kathleen Henson, Rochelle Trotter, Simona Garcia, Eleni Bousis, Vonita Reescer, Kristine Farra and Eve Rodriguez Montoya and friend.
We salute ALL of these Pretty Powerful Women! Special thanks to Jeff Mastro (owner/partner Steak 48) and Oliver Badgio (chief brand officer) for their ongoing commitment to giving back to the community! (Thanks to Mila Samokhina for the wonderful photos!)
It was a thrill to return for the 3rd year to the PAMS (Polish American Medical Society) Gala at the Ritz Carlton on February 16 as a co-host, this year with
Dr. Kornelia Krol wearing her surprise honor.
journalist Zbigniew Banas. The 68th annual Physicians Ball raised funds for scholarships for medical education and grants for outstanding community or charity organizations. This year's charity recipient was WICI
With beautiful attendees at PAMS Gala 2019!
Song and Dance Company, founded by Magdalena Solarz. Chaired by Dr. Marek Rudnicki (PAMS president), the event attracted over 350 guests and featured entertainment by Michal Szpak, a multiple award winner who is a popular artist throughout Europe. The KS Bronek Sports Award was given to Dr. Halina Aniol and Dr. Bronislaw Orawiec. Dr. Rudnicki
With my co-host Zbigniew Banas and PAMS president Dr. Marek Rudnicki.
introduced guest of honor, Dr. Piotr Chomczynski, a specialist and pioneer in the field of molecular biology. A special surprise was awarded to Dr. Kornelia Krol, past
Renowned Polish performer Michal Szpak.
president and event chair for PAMS, by the Consul General of Poland, the honorable Piotr Janicki. Dr. Krol was pinned with the Knight's Cross, Order of Merit, one of Poland's highest honors. The evening concluded with elegant black-tie clad guests dancing the beloved Polonaise with WICI dancers and to the TC Squared Band.
Mark your calendars! TPANwill present Dining Out for Life on Thursday, April 25! Last year, more than 60 restaurants took part in the event benefiting TPAN, one of the city's longest-running non-profit healthcare and HIV services organizations. This one-night-only event started in 1990 and is held in dozens of cities throughout the United States and Canada, but the funds raised in Chicago, stays in Chicago. To find out how you can participate/help, please register online at www.tpan.com/diningout. (I'm proud to be a host member and hope you will consider being one too!
Exciting news coming for lovers of vintage fashion! Sally Schwartz, founder of Image Pilots and the much loved Randolph Street Market, will introduce a new venture, RETROSPECT | vintage modern fashion chicago, on Friday, May 3 and Saturday,
Sally Schwartz, founder of Randolph Street Market and Image Pilots.
May 4. This high-end fashion expo will be held at 2260 South Grove Street on the Chicago River just west of Museum Campus and Chinatown. Directed by two curators, one from Los Angeles and one based on the East Coast (New York City and Europe) who are hand picking the FIFTY fabulous dealers, the event will feature the best clothing for women and men, jewelry, handbags, shoes, wearable accessories, textiles and
Look for vintage fashions from top designers at Restrospect!
notions from the 1890s to 1990s. This uber-exciting event will cater to the discriminating Chicago collectors and vintage fashion enthusiasts. The Evening Benefit for the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will be held on Friday, May 3 at the expo venue (2260 S. Grove St.) from 5 – 7 pm. It will feature a fashion show produced by RETROSPECT’S ambassador historian and emcee, Nena Ivon with an open bar, live music, bubbles, hors d'oeuvres and free parking. Chicago's vintage loving Influencers will be wearing their own vintage looks augmented with picks from the unique participating vendors. Tickets are $50 online and $60 at the door. And wait there is more! The legendary Music Box Theatre is
Nena Ivon (Nena's Notes) will be producing the exciting fashion show!
partnering with RETROSPECT on Thursday, May 2 to present a screening of the perfect fashion film, FUNNY FACE, starring Fred Astaire, with his one of a kind style, and Audrey Hepburn, wearing a wardrobe by Hubert de Givenchy. Pure glamour, pure Hollywood and a perfect accompaniment to this new vintage market! Tickets are $11 thru the Music Box website and includes panel discussion and photo opps. The general admission shopping party (on
Music Box Theatre will partner with Retrospect screening "Funny Face"
Friday night from 7-10 pm) is $20 online/ $25 at the door. All day Saturday shopping (10 am to 6 pm) is $10 online/$12 at the door. Chicago is eager for a new adventure in vintage and RETROSPECT| vintage modern fashion chicago is that adventure! The event is sponsored by Leslie Hindman Auctioneers with their Director of Luxury Accessories and Couture, Timothy Long, media partners Modern Luxury/CS and Michigan Avenue Magazine and Luxe Blooms. For further info, contact retrospect@imagepiolets.com and/or visit www.retrospectchicago.com. (Instagram is retrospectchicago). Also, mark your calendars for the next Fall RETROSPECT event coming November and 1 and 2. _________________________________________________________________________
OnWord, the American Writers Museum's inaugural benefit dinner will take place on April 9 at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. There, guests will get a first look at some of the typewriters that will be featured in Tools of the Trade in a special, one-night-only pop-up exhibit. Steve Soboroff will be at the event to display his collection and tell the stories behind the typewriters. This new exhibit, which opens June 22, will feature typewriters and other writing
Collector Steve Soboroff
instruments used by renowned American writers like Sandra Cisneros, Gwendolyn Brooks, Ray Bradbury and others, including more than a dozen typewriters on loan from the impressive collection of Soboroff. These represent a broad range of styles, from Ernest Hemingway's 1926
Honoree Edward J. Wehmer, president/CEO Wintrust Financial.
portable Underwood to Maya Angelou's electric Adler Meteor from 1980. Peter Sagal, host of NPR’s hit show Wait, Wait…Don't Tell Me! will be the gala emcee as AWM celebrates the many contributions of leaders in the national writing community. Award-winning authors A. Scott Berg, Rebecca Makkai, and Marie Arana will be featured in the awards ceremony. AWM founder Malcolm O’Hagan will present the Cultural and Civic Leader Award to Edward J. Wehmer, president and CEO, Wintrust Financial. (Tickets/more info here!)
Congrats to this year's Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman honoree Vonita Reescer!
Stanley Paul with 2019 honoree Vonita Reescer.
Vonita will be honored for her many years of dedication to community service and her love of Chicago. The event will be held at the Casino on Wednesday, May 1. The Foundation, established in 1990 by band leader extraordinaire Stanley Paul, honors the memory of Stanley's beloved sister, Raelene, a fashion enthusiast with a strong desire to support the education of fashion students. Since the organization's inception, it has awarded more than $300,000 in college scholarships to fashion design students in the Chicagoland area. For tickets and more info, call 312.836.1041. We'll see you there!
Fashion designer Borris Powell is ready for shock and awe at his next (and always exciting) fashion show, this year themed TRAPPED, coming March 24 to the Drake Hotel. Borris will present a collection featuring all-season women's and men's clothing in an event produced by North Shore Weddings & Events, with
Designer Borris Powell.
music by DJ Madrid Perry and Lui Sito, hair by Nevsy Zee (Custom Hair Salon), make-up by Kim Tee of GoBourgeoisorgohome and set design by Ramsey J. Prince. There will also be cocktails and a raffle with prizes from Leah Chavie Skin CareBoutique and MovementMed. (For tickets and more info, click here!)
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will present "Shall We Dance," the opening night gala of its latest exhibition, "Silver Screen to Mainstream: American Fashion in the 1930s and 40s" on Friday, April 5. The Hollywood and ballroom dance inspired evening will feature a champagne reception with silent auction, exhibition viewing, an elegant dinner and dancing to the tunes of Michael Lerich and His Orchestra (who played at our wedding!). For tickets/more info, click here!
Please save-the-date, Sunday, April 28 for the Catering Executives Club of America's annual Spring Scholarship Ball at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. I'm proud to be an Impact Award recipient alongside these amazing women–Lanie Hartman and Julie Roth Novack! For tickets and more info, please click here!
Wow! I wish I could add this one to my birder's journal! An extremely rare cardinal has birders and biologists flocking to Shelby County, Alabama this week, as images of a yellow cardinal have circulated around social media. Auburn University biology professor Geoffrey Hill said the cardinal in the photos is an adult male in the same species as the common red cardinal, but carries a genetic mutation that causes what would normally be brilliant red feathers to be bright yellow instead. (Read full story here and see video below)
That's it for this week! I hope you've enjoyed the latest edition. If you have news you would like to share, please send it along and, if not a subscriber, please join in the fun and sign up here!
RUFFALO CHARMS AT GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER GALA; CHEVALIER KUTZA; ELITE CHICAGO; ART OF THE BUNNY; ARTS ALLIANCE ILLINOIS BENEFIT; DANCE FOR LIFE; FINNIGAN IS FINI (HERE ANYWAY); CHEF ART-HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE!; CINEMATREK'S GEOFF BURTON'S BURGERS; WOOF, WOOF FOR WOOFSTOCK; CHEFS & THE CITY; CORINNE HAS GONE COUNTRY; CHICAGO JAZZ PHILHARMONIC GALA; SHINE & DINE; GRASS IS GREENER FOR CELEBRITY CRUISES; CUTE VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
Boeing Company's Dennis Muilenburg and the Mayor
I couldn't wait to attend and cover the "Above the Rails" gala hosted by The Trust for Public Land to celebrate the opening of The 606! If you hadn't read and been excited by all the press surrounding this grand opening, then you were living in a cave! The kick-off event, the gala on June 5, was held at the Western Trail Head
Coco and Ethan Meers with Meredith Wood-Prince
located at 1821 N. Ridgeway Avenue, which required Mapquest for us to find, making the evening even more exciting! Venturing into the unknown is one of my favorite pastimes and seeing things I've
View from the trail with the Lowdown Brass Band
never seen before is a daily quest for me, so I couldn't wait to see what the organizers had in store for this inaugural event. Before the party began, Mayor Emanuel remarked of The 606, "It's not even open yet and it's already a landmark for
Co-chairs Jenny Jacobs and Hanna Thomson
Chicago." The gala brought together more than 950 guests for a sneak peek of the elevated Bloomingdale Trail, the nearly 3-mile long centerpiece of The 606. After parking the car with expert, friendly valets, we were directed to the Step-and-Repeat where
Rik Geiersbach, Bolaji Sosan, Michael Cassel and Ebs Burnough
a delightful backdrop of greenery inspired by plantings found along The 606 provided lasting photo memories for guests. Ahead, I saw a large spiraling mound of earth (the Exelon or Ridgeway Observatory) where the horn-driven Lowdown Brass Band was exuberantly performing on top. As we
The Bristol's darling Chef Sean Pharr.
wound around the path towards the VIP party, we encountered delicious tasting stations, the first being The Bristol's renowned and beloved Executive Chef Sean
Great view from the Trail (the houses look nice, too)
Pharr, who was serving up delicious cucumber gazpacho with Indian spices and pickled strawberries with his usual big smile. We walked along the path admiring the views and foliage and I realized what a great gift
Susannah Flanner, JP Anderson and Ji Suk Yi
to Chicago this was. Even though I'm not a biker (or a runner), I was already planning a return in my mind to this rails-to-trails project. I loved seeing the views down
Beautiful tent decor by The Revel Group
Monticello Avenue, where each house looked like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. I also loved the grittier views of factories, smokestacks and poorly maintained backyards. It was all quite
Lisa Bertagnoli and Ji Suk Yi choose flatbread from a "fishing pole"
surreal, like a ride along the monorail at Disneyworld. The landscaping, by Christy Webber, is and of itself a reason to visit, with paperbark maples, pines and acers (a type of maple). I was told by horticulturist Eric Thomas that there was even a forest of 700 poplar trees! Further
With friends Lisa Bertagnoli, Ji Suk Yi and my fab Trib photog Hilary Higgins.
along the Trail, two culinary dynamos were busily serving up their delicious treats for the crowd. Chef Rick Bayless couldn't even take time for a photo he was so busy dishing out "coctel verde de camaron" (poached Mexican blue shrimp, jicama, and cucumber
Chef Rick Bayless
in a tangy green cocktail sauce with avocado, cilantro and tortilla sand. (Melt in your mouth!) Chef Bill Kim served blackened cauliflower with wheat berries, avocado and yogurt with plantain chips. (Yummy!) Some of the guests had even dressed in attire inspired by The 606. Whitley Bouma Herbert, Susu Block, Karen Krehbiel and Avery Keller all wore champagne colored outfits topped with a piece of prairie grass in
Diana Bitting and awesome DJ Megan Taylor
their hair! Inside the 20,000 square-foot tent situated on the grounds of the McCormick Tribune YMCA, the Revel Group, had created magical decor inspired by the Trail. Both large and small metal "bridges" connected tables in the tent and reflected the goal of the project, to connect neighborhoods. Chef Molly Brewe of Limelight created a menu that featured
Amy and Steve Dolinsky (event emcee)
family style dishes locally sourced. Providers included Nichols Farm, Slagel Family Farm, Seedling Market and Eli's Cheesecake.DJ Greg Corner, accompanied by violinist Julia Schifrin, cellist Tahirah Whittington, trumpeter Corey Wilkes and urban dance group, FootworKINGz. A resident along the trail, food critic and culinary reporter Steve
On the Trail with Chef Bill Kim (photo by Barb Levant)
Dolinsky emceed the night's program. Dennis Muilenburg, vice chairman/president /COO of The Boeing Company, the title sponsor for the event, shared insights on the importance of his company's support of The 606. President Will Rogers and Chicago region director Beth White of the Trust for Public Land offered gratitude for the communities, companies, committees and the departments of the City of Chicago and the
Artist Shala, whose piece sold for $8K in the live auction
Chicago Park District for the "passion and partnership in elevating Chicago." The official steward of The 606 and president of the Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail, Ben Helphand, received a standing ovation. "To all those neighbors who explored the trail, played beneath the viaducts and painted its walls, you helped transform this place with your dreams and your footsteps. Thank you!" he said. It was truly a night of celebration for this outstanding contribution to the city that will connect neighborhoods and people while making memories and building dreams. An after-party featured visual artists Shala and BboyB, who
Chicago Tribune's Michael Phillips interviews Ruffalo
composed original artwork that was signed by attendees. (It sold for $8,000 in the earlier live auction). The event raised nearly $1 million to be directed to The Trust for Public Land's continued support of The 606. For more info, click here. (Photos by Barb Levant, James Atkins and Erika Dufour).
Ruffalo kisses the Renaissance Award while Walter holds up his proclamation
cinematic artistry when it honored two-time Academy Award nominee and all-around cutie Mark Ruffalo with the Renaissance Award at The Ritz-Carlton on June 6. More than 350 guests attended the festive evening that was a celebration of Ruffalo’s many accomplishments as an actor, director and
Marlene Iglitzen and family
producer. (I love him as the Incredible Hulk!) Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips conducted a Q & A with the actor who reminisced about
Shirley and Walter Massey with Eda Davidman and Roopa Weber
his film roles, provided insights into his creative process and influences and discussed upcoming projects. A retrospective of film clips from his most memorable performances accompanied the
Ellen Sandor, Mark Ruffalo, Jean de St. Aubin and Walter Massey
conversation. A surprise presentation by Dr. Richard Sandor made Ruffalo gasp. The Mayor proclaimed June 6 Mark Ruffalo Day in Chicago…..awwwwwww! (To view Ruffalo's acceptance speech, click here!) The benefit was co-chaired by longstanding GSFC supporters/Advisory Board members Marlene
Ruffalo and Chaz Ebert share a sweet moment
Iglitzen and Ellen Kollar with support from GSFC Advisory Board Chair Ellen Sandor. More than $400,000 was raised to support the Gene Siskel Film Center’s film programming as well as lecture series and discussions with visiting scholars and filmmakers. Past Renaissance Award honorees have included some of the
Ruffalo with Melissa Sage Fadim and her daughters Emily Booth Peck and Amanda-Jane Weidenaar
most respected actors and directors working in the film industry including Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Reese
Carol Fox's Nick Harkin congratulates Ruffalo
Witherspoon, Jamie Foxx, Robert Downey Jr. (my FAV!), George Lucas, Nicole Kidman, Bob Balaban, John Woo, Michael Mann and William H. Macy and Felicity Huffman. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Bob Carl)
Vintage Kutza
The President of the French Republic has named Chicago's own, Michael Kutza, a Knight (Chevalier) of the Legion d'Honneur! This distinction acknowledges his outstanding professional achievements, "as an internationally recognized graphic designer, filmmaker and the Founder of the Chicago
Al Pacino and Sir Michael
International Film Festival," said Vincent Floreani, Consul General of France in Chicago. Michael is the recipient of many international awards, including in 1984 the Chevalier de L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from French
Michael with longtime collaborator Victor Skrebneski
Minister of Culture Jack Lang. The Legion d'Honneur is the highest decoration given by the French government and was created by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802! It has only been awarded to three other people in film: Angelina Jolie, Clint Eastwood and Steven Spielberg. The award recognizes Michael's role in the promotion of French cinema and their creators
Michael is presented with his medal by Vincent Floreani, Consul General of France
under his presidency of the Chicago International Film Festival for the last 50 years."I am honored to be recognized for doing something that seemed so natural for me to do: Bring the best in French films and talent to my city!" Kutza said. Over the years, the
Kutz presenting a Lifetime Achievement Award to Lauren Bacall
Chicago International Film Festival has hosted such French film luminaries as Jacques Demy, Claude LeLouch, Isabelle Huppert, François Truffaut, Leslie Caron, Louis Malle, Bertrand Tavernier, François Ozon, Agnes Varda, Patrice Chéreau, Anouk Aimée and Jeanne Moreau."As François Truffaut said at our Festival back in 1981, 'VIVE LE CINÉMA!'"
Marilynn Gardner christens the Chicago Elite with Dan Russell as the Budlong Elementary School and St. Ida Children's Choirs look on
added Kutza. AND, VIVE KUTZA! So happy for our native son! You make Chicago proud Michael! A private award ceremony took place at Public on June 16.
Chicago Elite, the city’s newest private charter yacht, celebrated the launch of its
Newlyweds Rudy Segovia and Andy Sinclair
$1 million renovation with a ceremonial christening at Navy Pier on May 26. Providing Chicago with the most innovative and accommodating private
Stylish Kori Coleman and Jillian McClain
charter yacht, Chicago Elite features sensational views, a contemporary setting, customizable options, and an exclusive dining and entertainment experience. Since the 1800’s, a boat has been christened by breaking a sacrificial bottle of champagne over the bow as the ship is named aloud and launched. Chicago Elite was christened by President & CEO of Navy Pier Marilynn Gardner with a
Lauren Nolan, Blair Staky, Kelly Larkin and Kit Graham
bottle of Moët & Chandon. The ceremony featured NBC's Alicia Roman as emcee, a performance by the Budlong Elementary School Choir and St. Ida’s Children’s Choir, remarks by Vice President and General Manager of Entertainment Cruises Chicago Dan Russell, and a display by the Chicago Fire Department’s fire boat.
The "Art" of the Bunny
Following the ceremony, Chicago Elite hosted a private cocktail reception and inaugural cruise on Lake Michigan. Welcome to Chicago Elite! (For more info, click here!)
Don't miss Art Paul's exhibit Hard Heads, Sweet Knees, Forked Tongues at the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art in Chicago (2320 W. Chicago) from now through July 26. As a graphic designer, Art has had an adventurous career
Art Paul beside his creation, the Playboy logo!
as founding art director of Playboy magazine, designing its signature rabbit-head logo, mentoring artists and illustrators (especially from Chicago), leading a revolution in illustration toward more experimental and personal work, and eventually organizing exhibitions for the magazine. Art was
Artwork in the exhibition by Art Paul
born in Chicago, trained at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and at the Institute of Design—the “Chicago Bauhaus.” He started his career as a freelance designer and illustrator. In 1953, he designed the first
Hugh Hefner (Hef) and Art Paul–A Dream Team collaboration
issue of Playboy, and during the following three decades, took an adventurous, award-winning approach to editorial design and illustration. He retired from the magazine in 1982, and has focused entirely on drawing and painting
the bunny logo is in my pupils
for the past thirty-three years. His exhibition documents Art's career as an artist after he retired from Playboy. The exhibit will chiefly feature a collection of works from the “Head” series—inner portraits of anonymous faces that Art created over the course of several decades. There are also line drawings, cursive word drawings and several
A young Art Paul at Playboy–did you have to smoke a pipe to get the job?
paintings on display. As a whole, the artwork refers to his personal values, satirical observation, and social commentary that is at times serious but streaked with humor. The works were created using a variety of
Article about Paul and how the logo came into being
techniques and materials, including colored pencils, graphite, china markers, colored inks, and acrylic paint on paper. Hef and Art were longtime collaborators and partners in crime at Playboy. There would be no Playboy, at least the way we've come to know it, without Art. His works are also
Art and Hef share thoughts over a Playmate layout
for sale, so grab a piece of history while you can. There is also a documentary planned about his life. See the teaser here (courtesy of MorqQuest Productions) for The Man Behind the Bunny: Art of Playboy, a feature-length
The iconic logo by Art Paul
documentary film about the life, work, and impact of Art Paul, the creator of the iconic bunny logo and founding art director of Playboy. Also, in case you didn't know, on every single Playboy cover, there's a hidden image of the Playboy bunny logo. In my "Eyes" cover (shown here), it's found in my
David Hawkanson and Barbara Gaines–Chicago Legends
pupils….:-)
The 3rd annual Voices of a Creative State benefit luncheon was a great success, bringing together 450 arts leaders and advocates from across the state to support the work of Arts Alliance Illinois, the state’s leading arts advocacy organization, at the Swissotel Chicago. The event featured a keynote address by University of Chicago President Robert J.
Ashley C. Wheater, Barbara Gaines and Greg Cameron
Zimmer who discussed the vital, transformational role the arts play in education and civic engagement. The event also honored two individuals who have made profound and lasting contributions to
David Hawkanson and David Schmitz
Chicago’s theater scene: Steppenwolf Theatre Artistic Director Martha Lavey and former Steppenwolf Executive Director David Hawkanson. Representing Ms. Lavey (while she recuperates from a stroke) was Barbara Gaines, artistic director of Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. More than
Falona Joy and Dana Rice
$270,000 was raised to support initiatives that foster and grow support for arts organizations throughout the state through arts-friendly policy change, studies demonstrating the economic impact of the
Joshua Simonds and Evan Plummer
state’s arts and culture industry, and the development and implementation of policy improvements to advance arts education access, equity and quality in Illinois. "We are tremendously
Sherre Jennings Cullen and Rachel Kraft
grateful to the many individuals and organizations that came together to celebrate the essential role of culture and the arts in Illinois," said Ra Joy, Executive Director of Arts Alliance Illinois. “This event is so much more than a fundraising initiative; it’s about elevating the many
Joshua Simonds and Lane Alexander
ways that culture and the arts help to build and strengthen our communities and our democracy. We are proud and thankful for the all of the artists, arts administrators, and advocates from
Ra Joy of Chicago and Ben Cameron
across the state who share our deep commitment to a thriving arts and cultural sector." The Honorary Chair for the event was Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. The Benefit Co-Chairs were
Alison Cuddy and Jenny Siegnthaler
Greg Cameron (Joffrey Ballet), Greg Thompson (United Healthcare), Cheryl Cooke (Allstate), Nora Daley (Board Chair, Steppenwolf Theatre Company) and Sean Conroy (Grosvenor Capital Management). The Event Planning
Kevin Coval and Emily Lansana
Committee Co-Chairs were Brooke Flanagan (Chicago Shakespeare Theater) and Julie Schmidt (Board Member, Arts Alliance Illinois). The highlight of the program was Zimmer’s address, which touched upon the "power of culture and the arts to open minds, foster collaborations, and create more vibrant communities."
Micheal Halberstam and Richard Shavzin
Under Zimmer’s leadership, the University of Chicago has forged connections with the local South Side and Chicago-area cultural organizations and education programs. UChicago Arts—the University’s collection of professional and presenting organizations,
Orbert Davis, Ben Cameron and Mark Ingram
academic art departments and programs, and arts and culture initiatives—is becoming a national model for how an urban research university fosters an integrative approach to the arts. Ben Cameron of New York’s Doris Duke
Tatiana Gant and Ra Joy
Charitable Foundation (and formerly of the Theatre Communications Group) came to Chicago to celebrate Martha Lavey, who since 1991 has served as artistic director of Chicago’s internationally recognized Steppenwolf Theatre, and David Hawkanson, who served as the company’s executive director for
David Hawkanson's charming, popular home–every magazine wants to shoot it!
11 years. The two, who were instrumental in nurturing the continued artistic evolution of the Theater’s internationally acclaimed ensemble and, through the Public Square initiative, revolutionized how an artistic institution interfaces with and engages its audiences and the broader community, were presented the Citizen Advocate Award for their local and national contributions. Congrats to both! As a side note, David was a neighbor of ours and lives in the cutest house on the planet in Old Town. See pics here of this charming 780' foot home!
Seven of Chicago’s top dance companies will come together for one evening at Dance for Life, an annual event to support organizations and dance community professionals dealing with critical health issues, including, but not limited to HIV/AIDS. The performance will take place on August 15 at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University followed by a
Goody laden Celebrity Cruises picnic basket for Grass Is Greener campaign
gala reception at the Hilton Chicago. Dancers from Joffrey Ballet, Giordano Dance Chicago and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, among others, will participate in the performance. Funds raised will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and The Dancers’ Fund. For tickets and more info, click here!
The Grass is always Greener for Celebrity Cruises! It pulled off a cross country luxury event in three cities
Butlers and Baskets awaiting delivery at Printer's Row Lit Fest!
last week for its latest attention-grabbing campaign! Picture this (at the Lit Fest)…suddenly, you see 100 butlers all dressed in formal attire walking in a straight line with picnic baskets! They stop in formation to let the
Besties Zach and Ashley react when finding out they won a Celebrity Cruise!
crowd catch its breath, and then, simultaneously, march up to surprised attendees delivering goody-laden picnic baskets! One lucky couple found a certificate for a 5 night cruise in theirs! The campaign highlighted the Lawn Clubs
The winning ticket for two for a Celebrity Cruise!
aboard the Celebrity Cruise ships, where guests can enjoy croquet, bocce ball or golf-putting in half-acre lawns of real grass!! Check out all the other wonderful things this luxury line has to offer here!
Andrew Hart, the charming evening host
Don't leave us ANDREW HART!
known as “Finnigan” on Hubbard Radio's hot adult-contemporaryWTMX FM 101.9, is headed for San Francisco. Andrew announced his resignation last week after three years at The Mix. He will be leaving at the end of this week to host
Andrew Hart when he worked at The Mix
mornings at KOIT, an Entercom Communications adult contemporary station in San Francisco. I adore Andrew, like all of his other fans, and will miss his presence in Chicago. According to this Robert Feder column, Andrew was ranking #1 with women aged 25 -54 and among the top 4 with adults aged 25-54. San Fran is one lucky city! (Follow him on
A TEDx talk by Chef Art Smith
Twitter @MrAndrewHart)
I'm so proud and happy for our own Chef Art Smith! First he's presenting a TEDx talk and next he's cookin' up a storm in Vilnius, Lithuania! Love it! Here's his Facebook comment: "Gorgeous day and evening, taught a group of Chefs how to make shrimp and grits, our famous Table 52 Fried chicken,
Darling Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro in Vilnius, Lithuania
Roasted Pork with Apple Slaw from Healthy Comfort and Chocolate Boudinos from Lyfe Kitchen. Chef Hector Guerrero had it going on! Did an LGBT event tonight with Internet Music Star Steve
Art teaches Chef Hector Guerrero how to make his grandma's 12-layer chocolate cake in Vilnius!
Grand and the very fabulous Tomaš Leja." Just love Art and Jesus and am happy to see them fly spreading their joy and talent!
No city loves their pets more than the Windy City, so on Saturday, June 27, Animal Planet is hosting a free festival celebrating pet adoption with dozens of dogs, kittens and puppies available for adoption from PAWS Chicago. WOOFSTOCK: ROAD TO PUPPY BOWL is a free festival at Stadium Green at Soldier Field from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM and is open to the general public – and their dogs. The event is headlined by an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for “largest gathering of
Don't miss PAWS' Beach Party on July 23!
adopted pets,” at 2:30 PM. For specific rules and guidelines for the World Record attempt and to register for WOOFSTOCK, click here. Beyond the stage, WOOFSTOCK will feature an array of attractions, including “The Beer Sanctuary” presented by Lagunitas. A collection of Chicago’s finest food trucks also will be onsite to delight a diverse array of pallets and appetites. Four legged guests will have a ball with doggie obstacle courses, pet swag bags, and booths from PAWS Chicago, the ASPCA, and Dog Vacay. Your dog also will have the photo op of a lifetime at the replica PUPPY BOWL field.
Grab your favorite foodie friends for a real taste of Chicago! Heartland Health Outreach (HHO) will host its annual Chefs and the City tasting event at the fabulous Montgomery Club (500 W Superior) on Thursday, June 25 from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.More than 20 chefs from Chicago’s most sought-after restaurants will share the finest
Honorary Chefs & the City co-chair Cat De Orio with Mary Jo Fasan (co-chair for DIFFA/Chicago gala)
cuisine at the event. Honorary Chairs Nina and Bob Mariano (Mariano’s) and Cat De Orio (WTTW Chicago’s “Check, Please!”) will host. Don’t miss your chance to win luxury prizes in the Grand Raffle that will include restaurant gift certificates, private dinner parties, cooking classes and a trip to New York. Proceeds from Chefs and the City will support Heartland Health Outreach’s
Jazz Alive violin students Rashaad Ali, Ivy Harris, Rayah Taylor, Sydney Davis
HIV/AIDS services, including the Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care. For tickets, $250, and more info, click here.
Chicago Jazz Philharmonic celebrated its tenth anniversary season with a Gala at the Arts Club recently. Nearly 200 guests turned out for this event which also honored
Lisa Parker-Davis, Orbert Davis, Angela Ingram, Mark Ingram
Lauren Deutsch, Executive Director of the Jazz Institute of Chicago. The event raised over $115,000 to support Chicago Jazz Philharmonic performance and education programs. Co-chaired by Joel and Frances Zemans and Carol Saffold, the evening included a cocktail reception, a concert by the Chicago
Tom and Madeleine Burrell
Jazz Philharmonic Chamber Ensemble featuring guest artists Roderick Dixon and Ari Brown, a silent auction, and a seated dinner. ABC-7's Cheryl Burton served as emcee and regaled the guests with anecdotes about her personal involvement with music education and performance as a child. In a jazzy “spoken word” performance complete with
Jazz Alive student Cameron Shaw plays the piano during reception
finger snaps, trumpet riffs, and a steady bass line, Orbert Davis and Mark Ingram, co-founders of Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, presented Lauren Deutsch with the inaugural Founders’ Think Big
Regina Fraser, Orbert Davis, Lisa Parker Davis, Zoe Davis Sydney Davis
award which recognizes an individual who represents the visionary, “can-do” spirit that led to the orchestra’s birth. In accepting the award, Ms. Deutsch said, “I think the most important thing I’ve learned from this music, and my place in it, is that we each have a gift to offer to the world; and how much farther we can go when we realize our collective strengths are more powerful than our perceived differences.”
On Thursday, August 13, Step Up Women's Networkwill host a chic evening of networking, philanthropy and local fare at the 5th annual Shine & Dine to be held at Bridgeport Art Center. All proceeds will be directed toward Step Up's charitable programs, empowering teen
Sinfully delicious burgers with Geoff Burton (aka Satan)
girls in Chicago's under-resourced communities to become confident, college-bound and career-focused. You can view a video about our programs here and for more info, click here.
Special thanks to my friend, journalist Geoff Burton (CinemaTrek), who helped me gain 5 extra pounds. Geoff reviews films, critiques
Shake Shack burger, fries and hotdog
restaurants and writes about just about anything you would be interested in. He also has an annual "Best Burger" list. So, recently, he took me to Shake Shack for the first time. (I know I'm the last one to visit, so shoot me.) Shake Shack serves everything from 100% all-natural Angus beef
Right before I gained the extra 5 pounds
burgers to flat-top dogs made with Chicago’s own Vienna Beef, plus fresh-made frozen custard and craft beer and wine. We had the burgers (although Geoff also had a hotdog appetizer!?!) and I will tell you, it was SIN-SATIONAL! No thanks..errr, I mean thanks so much Geoff! (Two locations, 66 E. Ohio and in the Chicago Athletic Assn. Hotel on S. Michigan Ave.)
Xander Lawlor competing at last years National Championships!
A very special shout-out to Xander Lawlor! He will be competing in the USA Taekwondo National Championships on July 8th in Austin, Texas. Chuck and I are so happy to be co-sponsors for this great kid who's already a winner in our books!
Congrats to Corinne Melchior, who had a great segment on WCIU's "You & Me This Morning recently to promote her upcoming fundraiser, "Gone Country", a benefit hosted by the Young Friends of the Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation. The event takes place on Thursday, June 25, at the Ivy Room (Tree Studios at 12 E. Ohio). For tickets and more info, click here and to see her cute video segment, click here!
Maximillian Vaughn Herrick (Max) and his loving mom Liz Herrick
MAX'S STORY, my heartwarming documentary about a much loved Ronald McDonald House Ambassador family (the Herricks and their awesome son Max) will be airing throughout June on CAN-TV, channel 21. Catch it on Thursday, June 18 at 8 pm and June 24 at 10:30 pm. Thanks to all who participated in this award-winning video (Kes Akalaonu, Bill Natale, Illinois Centers for Broadcasting, Bob Mills, Alonzo Stallings, Dave Lawlor, Matt Natale, Brian Kaempen and Josh Orr).
Hot time, summer in the city and I hope you're enjoying every, single minute of it! And remember, if you would like to subscribe to my blog, please click here! (My list is completely spam free and never sold.)
And lastly, congrats to our world class Chicago Blackhawks! We are officially changing our address to Hawky Town, USA!
