Category Archives: Weblogs

August 9, 2019 · 10:41 am

THE BEST AND BIGGEST SUMMER PARTY FEATURES DIANA ROSS

Plus: Out of the BLU at the Shedd; Ocean Prime hosts kick-ass kick-off; Ji's next big step; Service Club's BIG Day on the Terrace; Crain's shining star executives; Chicago Tribune Food Bowl is BACK; Babs loves Azeeza; LIPS Chicago presents drag and dining; Giordano Dance Chicago's Nan is WINNING; Expo Chicago brings the art; Second City Divas in Concert; Haute Dog Chicago's yap happy party; The Happiness Club benefit with Miguel; The BEST event listings; This and That; Videos and so much MORE!

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There are parties and then there are DRIEHAUS parties of which there is a world of difference. As a matter of fact, Richard Driehaus just may well be the Hugh Hefner of our age sans Bunnies! One of the most coveted invitations around is Richard's Summer Party, which also celebrates his birthday each year. This year's "O77" theme

The coveted invite!

was a nod to both James Bond and Richard's 77th birthday. It was the largest in the event's long history with over 1,100 of his closest friends in attendance. We love any excuse to travel to Lake Geneva in the summer and this is a really good one. Our long weekend started off at a friend's beautiful

One happy man with the James Bond Golden Girls.

lake house where we met up with several friends including Linda Yu (host with her Stuart), Sylvia Perez, Frances Renk, Andrea and Dr. Steve Stryker, Peach Carr, Nora Dunn, Alison Ruble, among others. The "mother" of all parties began with a unique invitation that included details printed on silvered metal with an image of Richard posing as James Bond between Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan and others, enclosed with a black leather kit (marked "Top Secret-For Your Eyes

Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan with Lee Glenna.

THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS! Omg….

Only") containing a complete portable martini set for two! The invitation box also included a very real-looking passport with Richard's photo and info as a "Special Agent."This sort of attention to detail is a hallmark of every Driehaus party and it's a thrill to behold. We drove up to the "estate on the lake" where valet parkers took guests'

And, of course, there were portable gaming tables for this fun James Bond theme.

cars before boarding trolleys and buses to the party site. Among the many lakes and ponds dotting the property, the one bordering the cocktail and dining areas were filled with ginormous "casino chips" floating lazily atop the water. Aerialists and models dressed as "golden girls" greeted guests as they meandered through the orchard and "Children's

Floating "casino chips" in a pond.

Village" (where Richard had constructed mini-playhouses for his kids when they were younger). The invite requested men wear white dinner jackets and almost everyone complied making the scene look a bit surreal in the heat of the summer, albeit uber-

Stunning decor like this was everywhere you looked.

elegant. Food stations were scattered throughout the space and featured "Skyfall" (Mediterranean fare), "License to Kill" (carving station with baby lamb chops, salmon, pasta), "The Spy Who Loved Me" (veggies), "Casino Royale" (paella and salads), "Goldfinger" (desserts including caramelized bananas and mini apple pie skillets) and a "Pretty Cool" ice cream bar. Every year, Richard thrills guests with

Pre-party with friends Nora Dunn, Andrea Schwartz, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Peach Carr and Frances Renk.

his entertainment choices and, this year, it was Miss Diana Ross! (This might account for the record attendance!) White chairs with mini cocktail sidetables covered the lawn in front of the Pavilion stage where "077" was lit up across the

Zach Lazar and Lee Flaherty.

top. Richard made his entrance in his usual dramatic fashion via a video that showed clips from past James Bond films with his image superimposed in several key scenes (see video here). During his opening remarks, he sat in an oversized red leather chair and began in story-telling fashion of how his father influenced his life. "One of the greatest gifts of time and aging is the perspective it gives on life. Danish philosopher Kierkegaard said this, 'Life can only be understood backwards but it must be

Marilyn Miglin and Jim Karas.

lived forwards.' With that in mind, tonight I want to acknowledge my father Herman and his influence on my life…Dad wanted the best for us and he gave me a priceless gift, the power of aspiration, " he said.

Jim Karas and Nicki and Bob Fioretti.

Richard's father was a successful mechanical engineer with 24 patents but he only received $1 per patent and wasn't able to afford a house that he desired. This inspired Richard to make sure he was in a better position to provide for his own family when the time came. With his voice breaking, he concluded, "I thank you dad, you inspired me with your aspiration. It was a life-changing gift. Thank you dad

The one and only Miss Diana Ross!

for what you did." Diana Ross entered in grand fashion too (see video here) and opened her hour long set with "My World is Empty Without You Babe" and sang many

Expo Chicago's Tony Karman and Sondra Karman.

of her hits including "Stop! In the Name of Love", "Baby Love", "Why Do Fools Fall in Love" and many more. During "Reach Out and Touch", she asked the crowd to hold up their cell phones in flashlight mode. She made three gorgeous costume changes, one more exquisite than the next, wished Richard a happy birthday and then, poof, she was gone leaving everyone in a dreamlike state. Afterwards, Richard's family presented him with a huge birthday cake and then it was time for fireworks! On the lawn, more cocktails and desserts were served…..It was a party for the record books, as they all are. I'm sure Hefner was watching with envy.

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Shedd BLU 2019

Over 900 of Chicago’s wildlife enthusiasts and socialites came together at the John G. Shedd Aquarium on July 27 for the sold-out signature fundraising fête, BLU, to make a difference for the aquatic animals everywhere. Hosted by

Auxiliary Board member Ashley Poulter and Nate Boychuck.

Shedd Aquarium’s auxiliary board and co-chairs, Caroline Conese, Ronak Danak and Dana Waud Floberg, the event raised more than $330,000 to support Shedd’s ongoing sustainability, conservation and rescue efforts for aquatic wildlife around the globe and

Shedd Aquarium Auxiliary Board members.

for the animals that call Shedd home. This year’s theme, “Out of the BLU” focused heavily on helping guests keep litter out of our waterways and away from landfills and instead reallocate as much waste as possible generated throughout the evening with the help of the aquarium’s robust composting and recycling programs. VIP guests kicked off the event an hour early and had the aquarium to themselves, though many chose to spend their time at the private lounge, presented by

Dan Derrig, Aux. Bd. member, Ronak Danak, co-chair and Aux. Bd. member and Dana Waud Floberg, co-chair and Aux Bd. member.

Citadel, on the North Terrace with an unbeatable view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. In

Cute servers from Nude Dude Food.

this one-of-a-kind setting, there were opportunities to come face-to-face with Shedd’s Magellanic penguins in Shedd’s North Lobby and enjoy a private acoustic performance from Daniel Wade outside while sipping on drinks provided by Heaven’s Door Whiskeys served in compostable cups. As the celebration got underway, guests walked

Co-chairs Dana Waud Floberg, Caroline Conese and Ronak Danak.

through the main entrance, adorned by 10-foot octopus tentacles for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity. In the main foyer, artists from Ink

Steve Boruta and Mina Boruta.

Factory worked feverishly to create a real-time art piece about how attendees can incorporate Zero Waste into their daily lives and their favorite memories at Shedd with visual notes and hand-drawn illustrations. Between sipping cocktails and experiencing special animal encounters to tastings from Chicago’s top restaurants like Nude Dude Food and Shaw’s Crab

Aquatic presentation "Tomorrow Starts Tonight" with dolphins, sea lions and penguins with music by Musicality.

House, guests also had the opportunity to marvel at a “trashion” show, hosted by Gordon Salon, with models wearing up-cycled couture outfits made from plastic bottles and bags. These activities and experiences helped inspire “Out of the BLU” attendees to think twice before reaching for single-use plastic materials. The stylish socialites then made their way to an exclusive aquatic presentation titled

Tom Scanlon, creator of "Clean the BLU" game.

Tomorrow Starts Tonight, in the Abbott Oceanarium that featured a dynamic musical performance by Musicality – a local west Chicago musical group featured on America's Got Talent. During the special

Aux. Bd. members Jeff Ollada and Catie Wloch with J.R. Davis.

program, there was a call to take action for animals by Shedd’s president/CEO, Dr. Bridget Coughlin, who highlighted the aquarium’s ongoing plastic pollution reduction efforts alongside recent heartwarming animal rescue stories. Following the stunning aquatic presentation with California sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins and Magellanic and rockhopper penguins, guests participated in a paddle raise, raising more than $47,000 in donations to

"Trashion" show hosted by Gordan Salon.

benefit the aquarium’s mission. From there, attendees went to the Sick Family Lakefront Terrace where the dance floor opened with

Aux. Bd. member Gregory Curtis Jr. and Nate Boychuck.

special performances by some of Chicago’s most popular drag performers, including Kat Sass and Lucy Stoole. Guests could enjoy food and drink in the downstairs foyer or dance the night away and gaze at the fireworks over Navy Pier. Concluding the evening, guests had the option to keep the party going at LiqrBox Chicago for the BLU After Party. While exiting, guests picked up a reusable bag, with SWZLE reusable straws, Ferrara candy,

Artists from Ink Factory create real time art to raise awareness for the Zero Waste theme.

reusable food wraps, and more, to encourage them to embrace the Zero Waste theme and

Aux. Bd. members Jeff Samotny and Ted Challenger.

choose alternatives to single-use plastics in their daily lives. The John G. Shedd Aquarium is home to 32,000 aquatic animals representing 1,500 species of fishes, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds and mammals from waters around the

A Chicago cultural treasure–The John G. Shedd Aquarium.

globe. Shedd is a recognized leader in animal care, conservation education and research. An accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the first U.S. aquarium awarded the Humane Certified™ mark for the care and welfare of its animals by American Humane Society, the organization is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute, and is supported by the people of Chicago, the State of Illinois and the Chicago Park District. (Photos by EVA HO and DANIELLE DOLAN)

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Co-chair Jean Antoniou, SC pres/show producer Tracey DiBuono, honoree Marguerite Hark, co-chairs Sharyl Mackey and Yvette Cusack.

Stay tuned for all the fun from this year's Service Club of Chicago fashion show! I think it was the best one yet! Themed "Fashionology #whatstrendingnow",

With Kristina McGrath, Mary Lasky, Sheree Valukas and Kathy Piccone. (Love my Elda de la Rosa dress!)

the event included a patriotic salute with U.S. Marines escorting models for the finale! I was proud to wear a beautiful gown by local designer Elda de la Rosa! Participating stores included Alice + Olivia, Anne Fontaine, Cram Fashion, Eileen Fisher, Escada, Ted Baker London, Tom James and Max Mara and Maximilian Furs (at Bloomingdale's). The glam finale segment featured eveningwear by Neiman Marcus Michigan Ave. All the deets coming soon in the Chicago Tribune! Don't miss it!

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The FAB Ocean Prime restaurant at 87 E. Wacker! GO!

The kick-off party for the October 24th Eversight Mystery Masquerade was a great success at Ocean Prime on July 25! Over 60 guests came out to celebrate the event and our 2019 honorees Sherry Lea Holson and Dr. David Lubeck. Louis Morgan, Ocean Prime GM, took care of us in VIP style as did the sales

With fellow co-chair Michael Caputo, honoree Sherry Lea Holson, Eversight's Diane Hollingsworth and honoree Dr. David Lubeck.

and event manager Crystal Lining. Guests oohed and ahhed their way to the Wrigley Room as they admired the stunning restaurant/bar decor along the way at 87 E. Wacker Dr. The room was decorated

Eversight's Diane Hollingsworth (R) with past honorees Mamie Walton (L) and Susan Gohl with Jonathan Grabill.

with tiny gold masks placed on the high tops as a nod to the event's fun masquerade theme. The corner event space offered dramatic views of Michigan Avenue as well as the river and skyline beyond. As partygoers mixed and mingled, photos from past events scrolled

Dave and Cheryl Lawlor.

on multiple video screens. Diane Hollingsworth, Eversight VP Partner Relations, welcomed guests and introduced Teresa Clark, Eversight VP of Philanthropy. As event co-chairs, Michael Caputo and I introduced the honorees, Sherry

Eversight's Teresa Clark (front L), Frances Renk, Paul Iacono and Todd Hatoff.

and David, and acknowledged past honorees in the crowd–Dr. Elmer Tu, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou, Susan Gohl, Sherrill Bodine, Susanna Homan (and lucky moi). Some of the guests asked

Peggy Martay, Toni Di Meola and honoree Sherry Lea Holson.

questions of the doctors and the two corneal transplant recipients who were in the crowd, Gerry Bouey and Alan Kravets. They enlightened all of us on the process and importance of the work that Eversight does. I hope you've marked your calendars for the main event, October 24 at the Peninsula! It's gonna be one wild, yet elegant, ride! For details, click here! (FAB photos by MILA SAMOKHINA)

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Haute Dog Chicago committee members Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas with host Elaine Duffens.

Another kick-ass kick-off was hosted by Elaine Duffens for Haute Dog Chicago, a fashion show fundraiser for Canine Companions for Independence set for

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Haute Dog Chicago supporters and committee members. We missed our chair Katie Cox!

Thursday, Sept. 19 at the Peninsula. Elaine's beautiful Gold Coast condo was filled to the brim with loving supporters like Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas, Wendy and Gregg Elstien, Donna Schultz, Natisha Dixon, Dee

Natisha Dixon and Donna Schultz and Mitchell Hatcher

Phillip Emigh, Natisha Dixon, Donna Schultz and Mitchell Hatcher.

Simmons, Leigh Primack, Angie DeMars, Katy Sandburg, Kyle DeSantis, Mitchell Hatcher, Sandy Golub, Maureen Guon, Margaret Harris, Amanda Black, Mary and Lionel Go, Jon Rodgers, Lori Smuckler and so many others. The Sept. 19 fashion show will feature local celebs and notables, many with Canine Companions, walking the runway with moving testimonials from some of the "teams" with their highly trained assistance dogs. I'm proud to return as emcee and hope you can join us! For tickets, more info, click here! This nonprofit provides highly trained service dogs for FREE to the disabled.

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Ji Suk Yi now on WGN-Radio's The Steve Cochran Show!

Congrats to Chicago's own Ji Suk Yi! She has become a regular contributor on the wildly popular Steve Cochran Show on WGN Radio! You can hear our beautiful friend Monday through Friday from 6 to 10 am! Yi most recently has written and hosted “The Grid: Neighborhood Eats,” a weekly restaurant column and video for the Chicago Sun-Times. She will continue the feature for the Sun-Times while adapting it as a weekly segment on Cochran’s show. Tune in!

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Tom Kehoe, a Crain's LGBTQ Notable Executive–no surprise here!

Crain's Chicago Business announced Chicago's Notable LGBTQ Executives, a first-ever list. The 88 LGBTQ leaders featured alphabetically here come from a wide range of sectors—finance, tech, nonprofits, media, the arts and more. All have demonstrated that they are advancing their

Robert Neubert, a Crain's LGBTQ Notable Executive, of course!

industries, workplace equality and civic engagement in Chicago. The article noted that "Chicago has been home to many LGBTQ leaders—philanthropist Jennifer Pritzker, media executive Fred Eychaner, Chicago Aldermen Deb Mell and Tom Tunney as well as Chicago Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts, to name a few—but today’s feature demonstrates the depth and breadth of LGBTQ involvement, service and leadership throughout Chicago." Congrats to ALL!

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Don't miss Opening Night of Chicago Tribune Food Bowl!

Chicago Tribune Food Bowl is BACCCKKK! This citywide festival features hundreds of events across Chicago with a mix of local favorites and world-renowned chefs. Spanning 18 days of food, Food Bowl encompasses a mix of dinners, parties, tours, pop-ups,

Trib food critic Phil Vettel celebrating at last year's event.

classes and a 3-day Night Market on the Chicago Riverwalk. Opening night is Tuesday, August 13 with Chicago born chef Rosio Sánchez (of Sanchez and Hija de Sanchez in Copenhagen, formerly of Noma). The evening’s event at City Hall will feature collaborative tastings from Birrieria Zaragoza, Brown Sugar Bakery, City Hall, The Duck Inn, Mi Tocaya Antojería, Sanchez (Copenhagen), The Swill Inn, and more, alongside the presentation of the Chicago

The Trotter Project will host the 1st annual Trotter Project Beer Fest Aug. 11-18.

Tribune Food & Dining team’s Game Changer Award. The Chicago Tribune Food & Dining team will award the Game Changer Award to a chef, restaurateur, charity or producer that is an individual in the food business or a food-based organization whose work has brought significant, positive change to the restaurant industry as a whole, or to the Chicago dining scene, in particular. For tickets, from $75-85 and all event info, click here! (All food and drink are included in the price of admission.)

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Streisand at the United Center (photo by Kathy Piccone).

By now, the whole world knows that Chicago designer Azeeza Khan has designed a wardrobe for Barbra Streisand's summer tour! Azeeza is no stranger to celeb dressing having had stars like Beyonce and Sarah Jessica Parker already wearing her designs but she seemed particularly excited about this big collaboration and no wonder! In a Tribune article by David Syrek,

Barbra Streisand performs in London on July 7 2019 wearing a black gown by Azeeza. (Dave J. HoganGettyDave J HoganGetty Images for Ba)

Barbra Streisand performs in London on July 7 wearing a black gown by Azeeza named the "Barbra." (Dave J. HoganGettyDave J HoganGetty Images for Ba)

Khan said she became acquainted with Streisand through a hook-up by a store manager at Barney's where Azeeza's line is exclusive. Babs had seen her designs there and, voila, here we are! Their meetings at Streisand’s California home resulted in the singer wearing a show-stopping black ruffled silk gown (now dubbed “The Barbara,” that will retail for $2995) designed by Khan as Streisand performed her classic song “The Way We Were” in London early last month. During her United Center gig, Babs acknowledged "Chicago designer Azeeza" from the stage. How cool is that?! Since those meetings, Khan has created about 30 pieces for the star for on and off the stage. You go girl!

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LIPS Chicago opens in Chicago Aug. 23!

LIPS Chicago is opening on Friday, August 23 at 2229 S. Michigan Avenue! Billed as the "ultimate in drag dining" and the "only true La Cage experience in the Windy City", the venue offers drinks, dinner and, of course drag entertainment. LIPS started as a small drag restaurant in the West Village of NYC in 1984. The restaurant has grown over the years and today Miss

LIPS Chicago at 2229 S. Michigan.

Yvonne Lame' rules over her "drag empire" with show palaces from coast to coast. Today Lips has venues in New York, Georgia, Florida, California and now Chicago. Dinner with The Divas, Twisted Broadway, Dragalicious Gospel Brunch, Glitz and Glamour, Superstar Sundays and TABOO – The Dirty Show are just a few of the many shows that will grace the Lips stages. For more details, click here!

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Nan Giordano holds her Lifetime Achievement Award surrounded by the Company, Michael McStraw and friends.

Love and congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago's artistic director Nan Giordano who recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Star Dance Alliance, one of the nation's most prestigious competition dance entities! The award was presented in Secaucus, New Jersey, during their annual gala on August 1. For a surprise,the Company's ten main dancers were flown in, along with executive director Michael McStraw! They performed excerpts from "Flickers" (choreographed by Marinda Davis) during the gala in her honor! Congrats, congrats, congrats! GDC is attracting eyeballs all over the world!

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EXPO CHICAGO returns to Navy Pier September 19 through the 22nd! Opening night, Vernissage, is Thursday, September 19, beginning with a Collector and Professional Preview at noon, an opening preview at 3 pm and then Vernissage from 6-9 pm. Besides the one-of-a-kind artwork, you will experience the BEST people watching around! It's like a show within a show! For tickets, more info, click here!

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In a one-night-only opportunity to see Chicago’s leading ladies of musical theatre on stage together, Season of Concern (SOC) presents “Second City Divas—In Concert,” a benefit performance Monday, September 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue. Season of Concern is the Chicago theatre community’s fundraising effort to provide financial assistance to those in the community impacted by illness, injury or circumstance. A virtual “who’s who” of Chicago’s musical theatre, the performers who have committed to date include: Roberta Duchak (also musical director), Cheryl Avery, Kelly Clark, Ariane Dolan, Mary Ernster, Lara Filip, Kitty Fishman, Linda Fortunato, Cory Goodrich, Anne Gunn, Heidi Kettenring, Tammy Mader, Kim Mallory,

Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue

Susie McMonagle, Johanna McKenzie Miller, Susan Moniz, Liz Pazik, Hollis Resnik, Peggy Roeder, Sharon Sacks, MaryBeth Samuelson, Jill Shellabarger, Cathy Smitko and Linda Waner. Created 32 years ago, Season of Concern has raised more than $3 million to benefit hundreds of people in the entertainment industry—actors, directors, designers, technicians, playwrights—who are unable to work due to illness, injury or circumstance, as well as offer support to more than 35 Chicago-based AIDS direct-care service organizations.

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After School Matters will host its annual gala on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Wintrust Arena! Enjoy an evening of engaging teen program exhibits, cocktails and dinner and spectacular performances. Help show our teens how much they MATTER! For tickets/more info, click here! The Chicago Children's Advocacy Center will host its annual "Night of Heroes" on Wed., Oct. 2 at TAO Chicago! Help this nonprofit battle child abuse and restore lives! Event details here!

Other BIG, not-to-missed events include: Share Your Soles at Carnivale on Friday, Aug. 23; Navy Seals Evening of Tribute with Ambassador Nikki Haley on Wednesday, September 4 at the Hilton Chicago; Gala of the Arts on Friday, Sept. 6 at Navy Pier; Patrick Lives On on Saturday September 7 at The Chop Shop; After School Matters on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Wintrust Arena; Imerman Angels Mission Possible on Friday, Sept. 20 at Morgan MFG; Cook County Health Foundation Gala on Wed., Sept. 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Gilda's Night Out hosted by Gilda's Club Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Park West; Dance for Life on Saturday, Aug. 17 (performance at the Auditorium Theater followed by gala at the Hilton Chicago); Green Tie Ball's "I Dream of Greenie" with rocker Pete Wentz on Friday, Sept. 13 at the Alhambra Palace; The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center's Fall Benefit, Bright Futures on Friday, Sept. 6 at Theater on the Lake; Joffrey Ballet's Jane Eyre Luncheon on Tuesday, October 8 at the Hilton Chicago; Jackson Chance Foundation's Ping Pong Ball on Thursday, November 14 at the St. Jane Hotel; Friends of Prentice's An Evening in Oz on Saturday, October 26 at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel; The Service Club of Chicago's Flight of Fantasy Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Four Seasons Chicago; Police Foundation Gala on Sat., November 2 at the Four Seasons; FLAIR Visions of Elegance presented by The Chicago Lighthouse on Friday, Sept, 13 at the Drake; Susan G. Komen's All Bets on Pink gala on Saturday, October 26 at the Palmer House; Victory Gardens Theater's Chicago Stories gala on Saturday, October 5 at the Four Seasons Hotel; Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit Luncheon (keynote speaker Martin Short) on Friday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Giordano Dance Chicago's Dancing with the Giordano Stars on Thursday, Oct. 3 at Park West; Working in the Schools' (WITS) Blackboard Affair on Saturday, October 26 at the Geraghty; Auditorium Theatre's Annual Fall Gala on Saturday, November 16 at the Palmer House with Chicago Celebrates Sondheim! performance following at the theater; Brushes with Cancer presents Twist Out Cancer at Moonlight Studios on Saturday, November 2; Chicago Research Fund's Children's Ball on Saturday, December 7 at the Hilton Chicago; Saving tiny Hearts Gala on Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Fairmont; Chicago Consular Corps Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Hilton Chicago; Chicago Botanic Garden's Harvest Party on Friday, Sept. 13 at the Garden; PAWS Chicago Fur Ball on Friday, November 15 at the Drake (co-chaired by our own Frances Renk!); Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago's Centennial Gala on Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Institute; James R. Jordan Foundation's Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser on Thursday, November 14 at the Palmer House; White Summer Soiree hosted by the Benjamin Marshall Society at 999 N. Lake Shore Drive on Wed. August 14; Adler Planetarium's Celestial Ball on Saturday, Sept. 7 at the Planetarium; Chicago Men's Fashion Awards hosted by the Chicago Costume Council on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Louis Vuitton Michigan Ave; Little Italy Festa starts Thursday, Aug. 15 in the Taylor Street Neighborhood, 1516 W. Taylor.

And I hope you can join me this Sunday, August 11, when I will be honored with the Legacy Award by The Happiness Club at Park West! Hamilton's Miguel Cervantes will receive the Artist of the Year Award. He will sing and I will dance with the kids. (Lord help me!) For tickets/more info, please click here! The Happiness Club (co-chaired yearly by Maureen and Marc Schulman) provides a positive influence for kids through the arts.

That's all for now! Hope you enjoyed this week's Candid Candace, the go-to blog for Chicago and beyond! And, if not a subscriber, please sign in here! My list is never shared, only treasured.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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July 26, 2019 · 10:56 am

COOL SUMMER PARTIES, POP-UPS, CHEESECAKE AND CHAKA!

Plus: SPARK! for Shirley Ryan AbilityLab; Happy birthday Eli's and Taste of Chicago; JHud takes Ravinia; 29Rooms pops-up in Chicago; Bonnie Hunt and the Digestive Health Foundation Gala; Chaka KHAN!; Tina and the ladies host Miami-style White Party; Share Your Soles Foundation benefit; Toasting Sheree; Patrick Lives On with casts of NBC's "One Chicago"; Rare books on Collector's Call finale; Mad about Marian-The Music Man at the Goodman; Happy BD Madame Counselor!; The GLOW-A pumpkin wonderland; Teatro ZinZanni's "Love, Chaos and Dinner"; Giordano Dance Chicago's "Dancing with the Giordano Stars"!; Joffrey Ballet's Jane Eyre; Art Van Furniture's Charity Challenge; Videos and SOOOO much MORE!

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Dr. Joanne Smith, pres/CEO SRAL, with Pat and Shirley Ryan.

Spark!, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s annual signature event, was attended by 450 people on May 30 at the Four Seasons Hotel. The ballroom was transformed into an immersive environment that put guests in the

Natalie Sacchetti, Menecis Garriga, Brody Roybal and Jennifer Tengelsen.

middle of the patient experience while highlighting the hospital’s research, clinical care and the incredible patient stories that have resulted. As guests dined, animation played on screens surrounding the room that showed figures and equations pulled from its scientists’ white boards,

Brendan James performs.

computers, patents and minds! Another captivating video was played giving guests a birds-eye view into the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab model of care and research breakthroughs.18-year-old Eva Saseen, who sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident last year, was in attendance along with

Ron Katz, Cheryl Coleman, Myra and John Reilly.

her mother and interdisciplinary care team. Dr. Joanne Smith, AbilityLab president/ CEO, and Dr. James Sliwa, chief medical officer, led the discussion about Eva’s journey and how best-in-class care and science helped aid her recovery. Singer-songwriter Brendan James closed the evening with a riveting performance of his song Nothing for Granted. Spark! generated $3.3 million in support of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — the largest amount ever raised at one of the hospital’s annual galas! Kudos!

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Cutting the Eli's Cheesecake with Miguel Cervantes, Maureen and Marc Schulman at the 39th Taste of Chicago.

Eli's Cheesecake (Maureen and Marc Schulman) and Taste of Chicago celebrated 39 years of togetherness on Saturday, July 13! Executive pastry chef Laurel Boger was cool as a cucumber even as her 1,000 lb. cake was fork-lifted out of a truck to prepare for serving the overflow crowd. This special occasion

Eli's Cheesecake company celebrates 39th BD at Taste of Chicago!

brought out Hamilton star Miguel Cervantes who led the crowd in singing "happy birthday" following a highly competitive (Lol!) trivia contest. The questions to the attendees came from Paul Kendrick (the Schulmans' son-in-

Eli's Executive Pastry Chef Laurel Boger puts the finishing touches on the 1,000 lb. cake!

law), a rabid Hamilton fan who knows the entire score by heart! Attending VIPs included Sam Toia, Ill. Restaurant Assoc. president, Neal Heitz, Taste of Chicago manager and, of course one of the Schulmans darling daughters, Kori Schulman. Eli's is the only original vendor at Taste and, according to Maureen, "We still love it

Eli's first cake at Taste in 1987 with founder Eli Schulman.

after 39 years! It's like summer camp for food!" Eli's first big cake was for Chicago's 150th birthday in 1987. Founder Eli Schulman was in attendance along with familiar media personalities including Rick Kogan, Linda Yu, Diane Burns, Linda MacLennan, Bobbi Goldblatt, Merri Dee, Lois Weisberg and even Bozo the Clown, who

Miguel Cervantes helps Marc Schulman deliver the cake.

read the Mayoral Proclamation declaring Eli's Cheesecake as Chicago's official 150th Birthday Cake! Mayor Harold Washington was supposed to be there to read it but, due to impending lightning, he wasn't allowed to come. This year, as in year's past, the entire crew from Eli's was in attendance, all wearing t-shirts emblazoned with "It's a helluva cake," Eli's famous

JOIN US!

words upon seeing the big cake for the first time. Just for fun, consider this, the big cake uses 450 lbs. of cream cheese, 70 lbs. of sugar, 50 lbs. of sour cream, 65 lbs. of eggs, 125 lbs. of cookie dough, 25 lbs. of cherry glaze and more. (Now you can make one at home!) Marc and Maureen are also co-chairs for the upcoming The Happiness Club benefit on Sunday, August 11, at Park West. Miguel Cervantes will receive the Artist of the Year award and I will be honored with the Legacy Award. The nonprofit positively influences kids through the arts. This signature fundraiser will feature a "Best of Chicago" buffet and performances. Miguel will sing with the kids and I will be dancing, God help me. Please join us! For tickets/more info, click here!

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JHud mingles with crowd before her performance. (Photo by Melissa Forman)

It was one of the most successful gala benefit's in Ravinia's 53 year history! And it was no surprise with Jennifer Hudson as the headliner! The Oscar and

Ravinia's PR director Nick Pullia having some fun with his media darlings.(Photo by Patrick Gipson)

Grammy-winning artist wowed the crowd in a skin-tight purple catsuit, her favorite color, singing a wide-ranging variety of songs with her 4 back-up singers, the Hudsonettes. This was her first time performing with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra but not her first time at Ravinia–that debut was in 2011. The sellout crowd was electrified from the start, when she made her entrance, appearing as if by magic at the back of the Pavilion.

Joe Coan and Julie Ettelson, wearing one of the top dresses of the night–Giambattista Valli for H&M from By:Fashionaholic!

The only thing the audience heard at first was that astonishing voice singing "How Great Thou Art." It sent

Stunning gala decor by Kehoe Designs, of course!

chills through my body and it never stopped. She was in full control of, not only her vocals, but her loving interaction with the crowd and many of her family members who came out to support her. Her hair, makeup and figure were flawless. Her hour long set featured tributes to Prince and Whitney Houston and included her big song from her Oscar-winning role in Dreamgirls, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." Hudson will soon sing the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic "Memory"

JHud makes her dramatic appearance.(Photo by Patrick Gipson)

as Grizabella in the film adaptation of the Broadway mainstay "Cats" as well as star in the big-screen biopic "Respect" about Aretha Franklin, who personally asked her to do it. (Aretha's final concert occurred at Ravinia in 2017). Nearly 800 gala guests and 7,000 concert goers were treated to this amazing performance. Welz Kauffman, Ravinia president/CEO, who booked this gala and all Ravinia concerts, said, "It's that love of music that makes her connect so beautifully with an audience. This was an event people will be

With Melissa Forman, Jeanne Sparrow, Dina Bair, Brittney Payton and Connie Payton. (Photo by Patrick Gipson)

talking about for years." Hudson often goes to Ravinia as an audience member and was in the crowd for the recent Lionel Richie concert. On this night, Hudson's charm was shining brightly. She came offstage and danced and mingled with guests–even calling several onstage to sing along with her. After the concert and gala, a few of us

JHud and Cheryl Burton. (Photo by Patrick Gipson).

were invited backstage, thanks to Ravinia's PR whiz Nick Pullia, for a meet-and-greet that included several popular media peeps like Brittney and Connie Payton, Dina Bair, Jeanne Sparrow, Melissa Forman, Sylvia Perez and Cheryl Burton. There were about 25 guests in the small green room and she chatted and took photos with each and every one–never once losing that beautiful smile on her face. (Read all about this exciting night here in the Chicago Tribune!) I've had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer before and she has always been incredibly nice and genuine–even as her star climbs ever higher, she will always be a our "hometown Jenny." Fly, fly FLY Miss Hudson! (Check out my past interview with Jennifer below when she was a cover star for Michigan Avenue Magazine!)

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Tamron Hall and Piera Gelardi, executive creative director and co-founder of Refinery29.

You know how much I love a good pop-up! Well, 29Rooms marked the first event at the iconic Chicago Board of Trade Building at 141 W. Jackson as re-imagined by creative venue agency, Skylight. Refinery29, the leading digital media and entertainment company for young women, unveiled

29Rooms entrance

immersive new interactive experiences and collaborations in the space when its 29Rooms: Expand Your Reality Experience took over on opening night, July 17. The intrigue began outside as guests were instructed to wend their way up escalators and down hallways until reaching the unique space. As I stood at the top of the stairway, I couldn't wait to try all of the artistic experiences in this groundbreaking festival of culture, cause and creativity. The exhibit marks the company’s commitment to "supporting innovative creative talent and driving conversation,

One of the colorful vignettes at 29Rooms

inspiration and positive change." As the first stop of its five-city Expand Your Reality tour, Chicago’s curtain-raising event brought together a diverse group of both local and national, emerging and established creatives, influencers and collaborators. Seen on the scene were Tamron Hall (whose new show "The Tamron Hall

Galina Petrova Tamron Hall (wearing Azeeza) me and Meiling Jin.

With fellow Tamron Hall fangirls Galina Petrova and Meiling Jin. (Tamron is wearing beloved local designer Azeeza!)

Show" will debut on Disney/ABC on September 9), Monika Dixon and her darling daughter Nadia, Meiling Jin, Galina Petrova and so many others. The opening night event debuted The Art Park, 29Rooms' new artist collective initiative which invited a local artist from each of the 2019 tour stops to transform a geometric playground into a canvas for creativity. Representing Chicago in the Art Park is installation-based artist Yvette Mayorga, who is known for her use of confection and industrial materials as a conceptual framework. Also new for the tour is The Traveling Billboard – a full scale billboard mural by locally-based artists, created in collaboration with artist O.J. Hays and the children of SocialWorks, an organization founded by Grammy-award-winning musician and humanitarian, Chance the Rapper, that empowers youth through arts, education and civic engagement.(Now through July 28) And while you're out there poppin' around, don't miss my favorite, Bixbee Imagnination Station at 915 W. North Ave.!)

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Bonnie Hunt, Michael and Becky Elrad with Mike McCready.

The Digestive Health Foundation Gala: Celebrating the Power of Family was held on June 8 at the Four Seasons with 600 supporters. Emceed by beloved actress Bonnie Hunt, the event raised more than $2.47 million for medical research at the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Center to improve quality of life for digestive disease patients and their families. Highlights of the evening included

Digestive Health Foundation 2019_CCPV_0104_GMX_7385

Elrad Family–Sam, Max, Michael, Becky and Jack.

moving testimonials from families affected by hereditary digestive disorders and the launch of the new Deborah and Martin Elrad Research Fund for Hereditary Digestive Diseases. The

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Nicholas Meister, Sarah Zegart, Victoria Salmon and Josh Meister.

Elrad Research Fund announced a $300,000 contribution to the DHF BioRepository, a DHF-supported blood and tissue bank used for digestive disease research that is one of a few medical database resources of its kind in the world. The Elrad Research Fund was established by gala co-chairs Becky and Michael Elrad in honor of Michael’s parents, who have dedicated their fund-raising and advocacy energies to

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Dr. Scott Strong, Mary Strong, Mallory Vander Kolk and Patrick Vander Kolk.

helping people with digestive diseases since their daughter Amy was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease 40 years ago. The evening also featured special guest Mike McCready, lead guitarist of Pearl Jam. McCready spoke powerfully about his personal journey with Crohn’s disease that

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Karen Malkin, Amber Jimerson, James Litinsky and Stephen Malkin.

led him to become an inspiring advocate for other patients and families. One in five people will be diagnosed with digestive health disorders, ranging from colorectal and pancreatic cancers to esophageal disorders, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, liver diseases, such as hepatitis, and others. The Digestive Health Foundation generates critical resources to advance research that transforms digestive disease into digestive health for patients around the world. Funds have underwritten 40 research studies and two advanced physician fellowships, as well as the Digestive Health Foundation BioRepository.

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Chaka Khan at private event at the Dalcy during a Q&A with her manager/stylist/friend George Fuller.

The living legend and hometown girl, Chaka Khan, was in town recently taping her homecoming performance for PBS at the Harris Theater on July 20. Before the taping, ten time Grammy-winner Chaka made an appearance

Chaka performs at the Harris.

Friday night at the Dalcy, at an intimate party hosted by Mesirow's Les Coney and Chaka's friend/manager/stylist George Fuller. Guests at this private meet-and-greet enjoyed a Q&A conducted by Fuller where she discussed, among many topics, how she got her start. (See video here). She looked better than ever wearing one of my favorite designers, Shernett Swaby. (To see highlights of her long career, check out the video below!) She played the Hollywood Bowl following her Chicago appearance. SHE is EVERY WOMAN!

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Julie Bouchard Tina weller and Jill Angelopoulos untitled

Julie Bouchard, host Tina Weller and Jill Angelopoulos.

Hinsdale is abuzz over the recent "white party" hosted by the Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club at the home of host member Tina (and Jeff) Weller on July 13 at their newly renovated 1927 Spanish/California-inspired manor. The Miami style party was a sellout attracting 185 guests and raising $35,000 (and lots of

Juhl Patterson and Lauren Kavanagh.

good will) for this venerable organization that is recognized nationally for its outstanding children's programs, leadership, membership and fundraising. For 70 years, the HJWC has continued its founding mission to bring women together in the spirit of volunteerism, service and a helluva lot of fun! Tina shared, "We have a fun time socializing and meeting others while making a difference to local Chicago charities." White attire-clad guests included Jill and Dr. Nick Angelopoulos, Kirsten and Paul Douglass, Eva

Dr. Jeff and Tina Weller.

and David Andalcio, January and Dr. John Pawluk, Julie and Justin Bouchard, Julie Langdon Dudek and Mike Dudek, Courtney (co-chair for the Social Committee) and Dr. Kevin Casey, Ruta and Charlie Brigden, Michelle and Jim Riley, Liz and Mark Oliviero and Christy and Mitch Hernandez. The afternoon-

Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club (glam!) Host Committee

into-evening party happened mostly around the beautiful pool where white balloon decor and twinkling lanterns created a sexy ambiance. The appetizers were Cuban-inspired and included sushi from Roka Akor. A DJ spinned the latest tunes while Codigo tequila, Prosecco, desserts by Molly Pops, Buzz Pops and the Ferrara bakery were served. Event proceeds will be directed to the 2019 benefit revenue to use in awarding grants for the coming year. To learn more about the HJWC, click here!

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Children's Place Assn. Junior Board.

The Children’s Place Association’s Jr. Board gathered more than 150 supporters for “Enchantment Under the Sea," a fundraiser to support Chicago's most vulnerable children, on June 13. Hosted at one of the city's unique galleries, Ignite Glass Studio, the event, raised $57,000 for the nonprofit. During the evening, guests

Hannah Slowey, Cameron and Jessica Valdes

enjoyed themed cocktails, sushi stations, a raffle, silent auction and a live DJ. A program highlighted the critical work Children’s Place Association does in Chicago’s impoverished communities, including early

Maggie Ryan and Maureen McClusky (co-chair).

education, health care, foster care and supportive housing. Kloie McCann and Maureen McCluskey served as co-chairs of the event with lead sponsors CIBC, CNA, Duane Morris, MB Financial, Fifth Third and Keystone Capital. For 28 years, Children’s Place Association has developed innovative programs that help vulnerable children break the cycle of adversity. Children’s Place has helped more 6,000 people since opening in 1991 and currently provides services for 350-400 Chicago-area children and parents, helping them overcome significant challenges so they can reach their full potential. (Photos by Gale-We are Loftus)

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Fortunately, most of us never have to experience what it feels like to go without shoes. Did you know that globally, 300 million children are denied education for the simple reason that they do not own a single pair of shoes OR that women and children who walk miles for clean water, risk illness and amputation from infections caused by living in unsanitary conditions? For 20 years, the Share Your Soles Foundation has responded to

Mona Purdy, founder of Share Your Soles Foundation, during a shoe drive.

this need by distributing shoes to people living in underdeveloped communities across the globe.

A touching shoe drive photo by SYS Photo.

The nonprofit was founded by Mona Purdy in 1999 following a trip to Guatemala where she saw little kids applying tar to the soles of their feet because their families couldn't afford shoes. Please join us on Friday, August 23 when this deserving organization celebrates its 20th anniversary (of doing good) at a Masquerade Party at Carnivale. Event details here! (And please check website here for information on how to donate shoes, you know we all have too many!)

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Birthday girl Sheree Valukas with husband Jim.

Much loved philanthropist and dear friend Sheree Valukas celebrated a big birthday on July 19 at Edgewood Valley Country Club in LaGrange. She was surrounded by 40 admiring girlfriends who toasted, danced and celebrated this wonderful woman who gives back to so many. (Sheree is

Heather Jane Johnston, Sally Jo Morris, Sherry Abrahams, Kathy Piccone, Sheree, Sherrill Bodine, April Schwartz and Rhonda Liesenfelt.

involved with the Service Club of Chicago, The Lighthouse for the Blind (board of directors), the Costume Council, Canine Companions for Independence (LA and Chicago) and so many others.) Sheree's darling husband Jim Valukas was on hand to welcome guests and share his thoughts about his bride of 14 years. "She has a passion for life. My toast to Sheree is 'may this be the beginning of many more years

With Marci Holzer, Kathy Piccone, April Schwartz, Sheree, Sherrill Bodine and Bonnie Rickard.

of health, happiness and sharing a good time and love with your friends, family and your husband.'" Toasts were also offered by Sherrill Bodine, Sherry Lea

Sheree Valukas celebrating her BD at the Edgewood Valley Country Club. (Table decor enhanced by Cheryl Bollinger).

Holson and Sherry Abrahams. A delicious lunch of watermelon gazpacho, chicken and asparagus crepes preceded the beautiful birthday cake. Dancing broke out throughout the afternoon! Partygoers seen on the scene included Kathy Piccone, Mary Lasky, Bonnie Rickard, Cheryl Bollinger, Marci Holzer, April Schwartz, Tracey Tarantino, Pam Capitanini, Tina Weller, Sally Jo Morris, Bobbi Panter, Holly Barr, Heather Jane Johnston, Kristina McGrath, Lezley Hodes, Karen Peters and so many others. Even Sheree's childhood friends from Mendota were in attendance. Happy birthday dear Sheree and here's to a 100 more!

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The 4th annual Variety Show & Fundraiser for Patrick Lives On will be held on Saturday, Sept. 7 at the Chop Shop (2033 W. North Avenue). Mingle with cast members from CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO FIRE, and CHICAGO MED to raise awareness against gun violence and funds to keep at-risk teens safe and engaged. The evening will include singing, dancing, stand-up, improv, music, food, drinks, a live auction and MORE!

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If you're not watching Collector's Call (hosted by Lisa Whelchel) on Sunday nights on MeTV, you are missing one cool show! Each week, it spotlights a unique, private collection that has included a Winnie-the-Pooh Guinness Book of World Records holder, an entire KISS collection, firemen memorabilia, an incredible Wizard of Oz collection and so much more! As I mentioned in an earlier edition, our rare book collection was featured in the season finale. Special thanks to the show's parent company Weigel Broadcasting, my friend/expert Leslie Hindman and local book appraiser Thomas Joyce. See segment below:

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I am MAD about Marian!! The Music Man, running now at the Goodman Theatre (thru August 18) is a nostalgic look back at small town America and reminded me just how much I miss my own little town of Dupo, Illinois. I went in expecting Robert Preston and I came out with a deep appreciation of this hard working cast led by Geoff Packard as Harold Hill and expertly directed by Mary Zimmerman. The choreography, the songs, the staging all took us back to a kinder, gentler time and we loved every minute of it. And even though I knew the story, I still cried when the marching band appeared. You shouldn't miss it! For tickets, $25-$142, click here!

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With Chuck, Donna Rotunno, Gayle Anthony, Kirk Williams, Jim Anthony and Paul Iacono.

It was a lovefest for Madame Counselor, Donna Rotunno, during her birthday party at Le Colonial July 19. Hosted by Gayle Anthony and Paul Iacono, the party in the private Monkey Room was intimate and

Celebrating D-Ro!

celebratory on more levels than one. Not only was it a BD celebration but we also toasted Donna for getting the nod to defend Harvey Weinstein in New York. Jury selection begins Sept. 9 and the trial is expected to last 4 to 6 weeks. As one of the top defense attorneys in the land, I'm happy to know this homegrown talent is being recognized further afield for her formidable skills in the courtroom. This party followed a week of celebrations for a much loved friend. Party on D-RO!

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The GLOW in Lisle

THE GLOW: A Pumpkin Wonderland, is coming to the Chicago suburbs this October! Prepare your family for a brand new autumn experience that will feature over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins, life-sized sculptures, classic Halloween characters, seasonal food and so much more! Located in the Sensory Garden Playground (2751 Navistar Drive, Lisle, IL), the event will donate a portion of its proceeds to Don't Be A Monster, a nonprofit that teaches kids how to combat bullying. For tickets/more info, click here! (Video below!)

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Teatro ZinZanni's "Love, Chaos and Dinner" is happening NOW in the heart of the Chicago Theatre District! This critically acclaimed show combines the best of cirque, cabaret, spectacle, live music, comedy and fine dining with a menu created by top local caterer, The Green Goddess" Debbie Sharpe! The production takes place on the 14th floor of the newly opened Cambria Hotel (32 W. Randolph) inside a rare spiegeltent, the Speigeltent ZaZou, a Belgian mirror tent filled with unique, historic touches. Individual tickets, which include a four-course meal, are on sale through September 29 and range in price from $99 to $189. For more info, click here!

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Giordano Dance Chicago will host its wildly popular "Dancing with the Giordano Stars 2019" on Thursday, October 3 at the Park West. Chicago's A-listers will shine onstage with their Giordano dance partners in the liveliest fundraiser of the year! Who will impress the celebrity judges to secure the coveted disco ball? Support your favorite star and stay to dance the night away with this much loved dance company that's ALL heart! All proceeds benefit CPS outreach, Giordano Dance company operations and jazz dance advocacy and mentorship! For tickets/more info, click here!

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The Joffrey Ballet will host a Jane Eyre Luncheon on Tuesday, October 8 at the Hilton Chicago. The event will celebrate women in the arts and the Chicago premiere of Jane Eyre with a behind-the-scenes look at the production with choreographer Cathy Marston. For tickets/more info, click here!

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Great news for local nonprofits! Art Van Furniture is celebrating more than a decade of giving back with the company’s 11th Annual Charity Challenge, which allows nonprofit organizations committed to women, children and human services to vie for 10 grants totaling $250,000, ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Applications are open now through Aug. 19. Participating charities will compete to raise the most money from September 9 through 27. The top 10 fundraising nonprofits will be honored and receive their grants at Art Van Furniture’s 60th anniversary gala on October 24. See details here and please share with any nonprofits that might be interested/eligible. A great opportunity!

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Hope you're making the most of our fabulous summer days! Don't forget this weekend is the Randolph Street Market (July 27/28), always a great idea with over 125 vendors, music, food, fun and SALLY! And, if not a subscriber, please sign up here! I would love to have you!

Love, as always,

Candace, Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And something to leave you with a smile! That laugh tho'……

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

Tagged as 29Rooms, around town, arts and culture, arts and entertainment, Bonnie Hunt, breaking news, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Cathy Marston, celebrities, Chaka Khan, Chance the Rapper, Chaos and Dinner, Chicago, Children's Place Association, Collector's Call, Dalcy, Dancing with the Giordano Stars, Debbie Sharpe, Digestive Health Foundation, dining, Donna Rotunno, Eli's Cheesecake, films, Gayle Anthony, George Fuller, Giordano Dance Chicago, Glow, Goodman Theatre, Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club, Jane Eyre, Jennifer Hudson, Joffrey Ballet, Laurel Boger, Les Coney, Leslie Hindman, Love, Marc Schulman, Mary Zimmerman, Maureen Schulman, Miguel Cervantes, movies, Patrick Lives On, Paul Iacono, Ravinia, Refinery29, restaurants, Share Your Soles Foundation, Sheree Valukas, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Social scene, Tamron Hall, Taste of Chicago, Teatro ZinZanni, The Happiness Club, The Music Man, things to do, Tina Weller

July 9, 2019 · 10:25 am

PEACH CARR AND FELLOW PROJECT RUNWAY STARS UNITE FOR JOURNEYCARE

Plus: The grand opening of the world's largest rooftop; Botanic Garden's Summer Dinner Dance; Auditorium Theatre Devil's Ball; Friends of Conservation's Polo-palooza; Pride Weekend parties; Red Bull's Renaissance One celebration; Bixbee Imagination Station's VIP opening party; The Great Pink Run; Susan G. Komen's "All Bets on Pink"; Too many memorial tributes; Goodman's "Music Man", a delightful trip back to River City; Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is WINNING; Shedd Aquarium's BLU will be a Zero Waste event; Saving Tiny Hearts Gala with Peanut; Tasting Stars for A Silver Lining; Ryan is a little bit country; Fun videos and SO much MORE!

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Project Runway All Stars Johnathan Kayne Gillaspie, Peach Carr, Christopher Palu, Korto Momolu and Joshua Christensen.

The love in the room was palpable for fashion designer and hometown hero Peach Carr, three of her fellow Project Runway All Stars, and the nonprofit they came together to support, JourneyCare, the country's largest non-profit

Johnathan Kayne design.

organization providing hospice, home health, palliative and pediatric hospice care. The event at Theater on the Lake on Saturday, June 29 attracted an overflow crowd for an exciting fashion show presented by the All Stars of Project Runway designers Joshua Christensen, Johnathan Kayne Gillaspie, Korto Momolu, Christopher Palu and, of course, Peach! Joe Matty, president JourneyCare Foundation, opened the show by encouraging all of the clinical team members in the audience to stand and be recognized. He said, "Right now, we have around 1500 clinicians and care members taking

Co-chairs Pamela Cramer and Elizabeth Foley.

care of our more than 5000 patients. We're working in Rush Hospital, Northwestern Hospital, the University of Chicago….for all of the major medical systems,

Christopher Palu and his model.

JourneyCare is there. We're a family and we take care of each other. Our promise is to meet the patients where they are, build trust and share a journey. JourneyCare has never turned anyone away due to inability to pay. We offer programs that include integrative therapies (pet, massage, art and music), Jewish Care Services and our "We Honor Veterans" program. Despite the benefits of these special programs, they are not reimbursable through Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance." Allison Rosati, of NBC-5, served as emcee. She spoke about her mom who passed away from ovarian cancer and lauded the hospice care

Linda Yu, Peach Carr and Jill Devaney.

she received calling it a "godsend" and the hospice nurses "angels on earth." Event co-chairs Pamela Cramer (a JourneyCare Foundation trustee) and Elizabeth Foley (JourneyCare board member) were introduced onstage.

Designer Korto Momolu and her model.

(Peach was also a co-chair). The fashion show, expertly produced by ZZAZZ Productions, began with a thrilling video of Chicago created by Eric Hines. Designer Johnathan Kayne opened the show with a dramatic shocking pink evening gown delicately embellished with a crystal neckline followed by flowing gowns in bold colors. Korto Momolu's African-inspired collection followed with short and long designs created out of

JoeMatty Charlene Berger blum and Peach Carr

Joe Matty, JourneyCare Foundation president, Charlene Berge-Blum and Peach Carr.

luxury fabrics and mixed prints. Joshua Christensen's designs were presented in shades of black and bright red, with a chic biker look. Christopher Palu's sexy designs featured sparkly cocktails dresses with thigh-high black

David Heiner and Whitney Reynolds.

boots, gowns slit-up-to-there and plunging necklines. The show closed with a standing ovation as Peach showed her first collection following a horrible accident that left her wondering if she would ever be able to design again. Well, this show proved she could and in spades! The audience roared as every single new design made its appearance on the runway. From colorful cocktail dresses with the Chicago skyline outlined in jet black

An emotional Peach is escorted down the runway by daughter Molly Carr.

beadwork to a chic black and white number with a big bow at the edge to a skirt with the British flag emblazoned all over it, the collection was pure Peach–whimsical, wearable, washable and on trend. When designing, Peach always asks herself, "Would Edie Sedgewick wear this?"…And the resounding answer is EVERYONE wants to wear this! For the finale, Peach sent her longtime "bestie" Camerone

Lisa Cox VP of Marketing in blue Tallest one is Jaelah Steele the younger is Kennedy Ali

Kennedy Ali, Jaelah Steele, Lisa Cox, VP of Marketing, and friend.

Parker McCulluch down the runway wearing a form fitting sparkly, charcoal evening gown. Peach called her an "MS warrior" having been diagnosed 21 years ago with the disease. Peach describes the emotional evening, "It was such an electric night. I brought my closest friends who I knew would bring killer fashion, camaraderie and positive energy to support JourneyCare. We all love,

Peggy Martay and Patti Stratton.

support and respect each other and they said yes to my appearance request on the spot. I'm recovering from an injury and this collection has been an emotional journey, bringing me new insight on my identity as a designer. The two standing ovations brought me to tears. I love

Carrying my Peach Carr clutch w/ show producer Tracey Tarantino DiBuono.

Chicago." As Peach dabbed at tears, she was escorted down the runway by her darling daughter Molly Carr, with Camerone following behind as the crowd stood and cheered. A live auction conducted by Keith Jones

Camerone Parker McCulluch wearing Peach Carr design.

brought in over $52,000 with the event raising approximately $200,000 for the nonprofit. For 40 years, JourneyCare teams have served patients and families living with advanced illnesses so that each may live with dignity and comfort. It was a night I won't soon forget and a privilege to be in the room to witness the love and support for Peach, her fellow Project Runway designers who came out on her behalf, and this most deserving nonprofit.

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Offshore at Navy Pier

Offshore, the much buzzed about and highly anticipated new deck sitting atop the third floor of Navy Pier, began their special evening with a

Kathleen Jenkins, Terisa Griffin, Juliana Stratton, Lt. Governor Of The State Of Illinois.

recognition by The Guinness Book of World’s Records being named the “World’s Largest Rooftop Deck” boasting over 52,300 square feet! The grand opening night event on June 20 continued with a special ribbon cutting to officially open Offshore, followed by a performance by the “Queen of Soul,” Terisa Griffin. Over 1,000 attendees adorned the spectacular new space during opening night, including Mayor Lori Lightfoot; Juliana Stratton (Lt. Governor of the State of Illinois); The Honorable Paul Van Halteren, the Honor Consul General of Belgium; The Honorable Gissella Castillo Veremis, The Consul General of the Dominican Republic; The Honorable Jose David Murillo, Consul General of Costa Rica; Lamont Robinson, State

Twista and DJ Gehaad.

Representative of the 5^th District; Bill Lowry, County Board Commissioner of the 3^rd District; Kim Du Buclet , Commissioner of the Metro Water Reclamation District; Dean Ingram, The Metropolitan Board of the

Christine Tressel (ABC 7 Chicago) Sylvia Perez (FOX 32 Chicago).

Chicago Urban League; along with special appearances by actor Colin Egglesfield and rapper and Chicago native, Twista. Offshore, a stunningly chic 52,300 sq. ft. all-seasons/all-weather venue offers Chicagoans a full-service luminous bar and world-class kitchen, terraces, seven cozy fire pits, an entertainment and gaming area and multiple large social gathering spaces. Offshore is expected to be one of the city’s and the country’s hottest destinations; a sexy and sophisticated space adjacent to Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, offering panoramic, unmatched views of Lake Michigan and the city’s magnificent skyline! Woot! Woot!

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Benagh Newsome, Britney Magner and Peyton Merrill.

The Chicago Botanic Garden hosted its signature fundraiser, the Summer Dinner Dance that attracted more than 375 guests and raised nearly $700,000. The Board of Directors of the Chicago Horticultural Society presented the event on the summer solstice with the theme of pollinators woven throughout the evening as a nod to Bees & Beyond, the Garden-wide program that inspires a genuine appreciation for the vital role pollinators play in our lives and in a healthy, diverse planet. The cocktail party began in the Crescent and

Design by Revel Decor.

Heritage Gardens with appetizers and specialty cocktails such as “The birds and the bees” and “Everything’s coming up rosé.” Guests enjoyed colorful bands of flowers that are attractive to pollinators in the

Tony and Terri Lorenz and Peter and Stephanie Keehn.

Crescent Garden and a large coneflower feature in the center of the Heritage Garden. Dinner was catered by Food for Thought in a tent on the enchanting Esplanade. Produce grown by Windy City Harvest, the Garden’s urban agriculture education and jobs-training

Laura and Melvin Williams

initiative, was incorporated into the meal. The inside of the tent was designed by Revel Décor with tablescapes featuring summer flowers that are attractive to pollinators. Guests danced the night away to the music of Maggie Speaks. Proceeds from this event will continue to connect

Lisa LoVallo, Eun Jung and Shawna Ellis.

people to science, conservation, and nature. The Chicago Botanic Garden, one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, is a 385-acre living plant museum featuring 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas. With events, programs and activities for all ages, the Garden is open every day of the year and admission is free. (The Summer Dinner Dance was generously supported by Northern Trust and Boeing with additional support provided by Beam Suntory and Forbidden Root.) (Photos by ROBERT CARL)

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Dana Oliff, Hayley Lesnik and Stephanie Fosco.

The Auditorium Theatre Auxiliary Board, a dedicated group of young professionals devoted to raising awareness and generating support for the Auditorium Theatre,

Rachel Freund (Auditorium Theatre Interim CEO) and Ann Nash (Auditorium Theatre Board Chairman).

hosted its annual Devil’s Ball fundraiser right on the theatre’s historic stage on June 14. The event raised more than $45,000, with all proceeds benefiting the continued restoration and preservation of the National Historic Landmark theatre. In keeping with the 1893 World’s Fair theme of the event, guests enjoyed internationally-themed cuisine, provided by Food for Thought and Russian Tea Time;

Grace Van Beest, Mary Ann Meussling and Madeline Meussling.

sipped specialty cocktails with spirits provided by CH Distillery; and danced under the golden glow of the Auditorium Theatre’s arches in this unique event hosted on stage. Mini-tours of the 130-year-old theatre gave guests an intimate look at the Auditorium’s world renowned architecture and design, which played a large role in securing the World’s Fair for

Kamil Fajardo and J.J. Scheinwynn.

Chicago when it was unveiled in 1889. Magician Benjamin Barnes roamed the stage, performing close-up tricks for entranced attendees, and a duo of belly dancers from Safire Belly Dancers surprised the crowd with a mesmerizing performance. A silent auction was open

Terrell and Amber Pierce.

throughout the evening, featuring items including signed Cubs and White Sox baseballs, a trip to Memphis with tickets to Elvis Presley’s Graceland and a stay at the famed Peabody Hotel (duck alert!), a bed-and-breakfast stay and VIP wine tasting at Traverse City’s

Madeline Meussling and Judie Moore Green.

Chateau Chantal and brewery and distillery tours. The Devil’s Ball, hosted annually by the Auxiliary Board for the past eight years, has become one of the city’s signature summer events. Click here for more information about the Auxiliary Board and its support of the Auditorium Theatre. (Presenting sponsor was the Anthony R. and Mary Ann Pasquinelli Foundation; Gold Sponsors were Dia and Ed Weil Jr.; Silver Sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. John McKinnon; Ann and Tom Nash; and Bronze Sponsors were Friends of Marijo Gordon and Steven B. Pearlman & Associates.)

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LtoR FOC Founder Jorie Butler Kent Myra Reilly Lyza Schlenker FOC President Reute Butler

FOC Founder Jorie Butler Kent, Myra Reilly, Lyza Schlenker and FOC President Reute Butler.

Friends of Conservation (FOC) returned to its roots on Sunday, June 23^rd, following a longstanding tradition of raising funds with a benefit luncheon and afternoon of polo for conservation at Oak Brook Polo Club. It was the setting for FOC’s first fund raising event, held in 1983 before an international championship polo match. More than 35 years later, FOC continues to partner with the Club to host supporters for an

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Sheree Valukas and Lezley Hodes.

exciting international match. This year, the USA (Oak Brook) and Mexico vied for the prestigious Butler Challenge Cup, with the Oak Brook team

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Charlene McMann-Seaman and Scott Seaman, Denise Tomasello, Al Menotti and Vonita Reescer.

winning 8 to 6. FOC President Reute Butler, who chaired the event with Vonita Reescer and Bobbi Panter,was joined by her mother and FOC founder Jorie Butler Kent. Fascinating international travel and enthusiastic bidding highlighted the live auction, and a silent auction and raffle helped the annual event raise more than $150,000. Attendees included Melissa and Brian Babcock, Myra and John Reilly, Wendy Wood-Prince, Cookie Cohen, Kristina McGrath, Rhonda Sanderson, Dale

LtoR FOC President Reute Butler and David Rothschild

FOC president Reute Butler with David Rothschild.

Stackler and Terri Strauss, Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzalez, Sherrill and John Bodine, Sheree Valukas and

Co-chairs Vonita Reescer and Bobbi Panter.

Lezley and Scott Hodes. Founded in 1982, FOC partners with the fabled Maasai people in Kenya’s magnificent Masai Mara, host to the Great Migration, one of the truly epic remaining wonders of the natural world. Through the years, FOC has become the most trusted and respected stakeholder in the Mara, working to empower young Maasai girls and boys to steward

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Reute Butler and her mom Jorie Butler Kent hold the coveted Butler Challenge Cup.

as equals the wildlife that is their natural heritage. In 2018, FOC launched YES WE CAN, the first-ever Maasai girls empowerment program, at a secondary school near their Mara base. Before it began, mid-year 22 of the 305 girls in the school had returned from their year-end break pregnant. This year, after participating in YES WE CAN for half a year, no girls returned from their year-end break pregnant. In addition, 85% of the girls eligible for female circumcision chose to bi-pass the practice, and it is the girls themselves who are educating their families and communities and inspiring girls from other schools to bypass this horrific practice.

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With host Tom Kehoe, Chuck, Michael Caputo and friend.

Pride Weekend and the entire month of June is a reason to celebrate love-is-love so we were so excited to attend taste-maker extraordinaire, Tom Keho's Pride Tea Dance at his exquisite home in

Gabriel Jimenez, Julie Barrish and David Murga.

Old Town on June 30. The Pride banners were flying out front when we arrived and we could already hear the merrymaking inside. I don't know of any host who is more gracious than Tom. He opens his home and his heart for all of his friends and family and it is a pure joy to be a part of it. Lavish buffets, hors d'oeuvres and cocktails served by just the cutest

Trevor Heffernan and Tom Carto.

guys, a DJ in the backyard and dancing, dancing, DANCING were the hallmarks of the "Tea Dance." Rumor has it that even Governor Pritzker and his MK showed up, albeit a little early. When we walked in, friend David Murga and Gabriel Jiminez, a hunky 6’2” ballet dancer from Mexico who will be training

The host with the most, Tom Kehoe!

with The Joffrey this summer, greeted us at the door dressed in matching rompers, holding a Ken doll dressed exactly like them. And awayyyyy we went! Tom's home is spectacular, tucked away on a quiet street (although not so quiet on this night), and belongs in a high end home and garden magazine. When he moved in last year,

Cute party guests!

he had full grown trees plopped down all over the property so as not to waste a moment enjoying a fully functional garden. Tom's dreams and his heart are as big as all outdoors–from Kehoe Designs to the Geraghty to his latest ventures, Black Oak Technical Productions and FloralExhibits–he does everything with grand style, like his Pride celebrations. Thanks so much Tom for giving us the opportunity to make even more special memories with people we love.

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Pride parties were happening all over Chicago including the underground South Side pride festival that took place on June 27 at the Promontory in Hyde Park. Red Bull Music hosted Red Bull Presents: Renaissance One – an amazing pride event that featured exciting DJ sets and performances BbyMutha, TT the Artist, Kidd Kenn, Blu Bone, DJ Hijo Pródigo, Professor-Wrecks and DJ Rae Chardonnay. Renaissance One's mission was to elevate these progressive artists while paying tribute to Chicago’s LGBTQ+ pioneers before the city’s 2019 Pride celebrations on June 30th. In 1970, following the Stonewall riots, a gay liberation organization formed at the University of Chicago and sponsored a dance at the South Side’s Coliseum Annex which would become the first-ever public lesbian and gay dance event (aside from Halloween drag balls that were already happening). Following the dance, these energized organizers led a campaign to make the Normandy on Rush Street Chicago’s first gay bar to secure a license and permit same-sex dancing. Flash forward to 2019 and, thanks to these early activists, Chicago’s

Kidd Kenn (Photo by Zoe Rain)

LGBTQ+ scene is more vibrant than ever- bustling with a new generation of artists, activists and voices carrying on the

TT the Artist (Photo by Zoe Rain).

legacy of those South Side pioneers. Red Bull Presents is a collection of shows that celebrates diverse music scenes in cities across the globe. In the U.S., the series is focused on supporting local creative communities and unearthing inspiring stories across New York City, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, Oakland, San Francisco, Miami, Nashville, Denver, Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Portland, and Austin. (Photos by ALLY ALMORE)

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Luis Garcia (Bixbee founder) with Tom Kehoe.

If you haven't been to the Bixbee Imagination Station at 915 W. North Avenue, be sure to put it on your to-do list! This fun-filled pop-up, created by Kehoe Designs and Black Oak Technical Productions, is a fun-tastical

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Ramsey Prince, Stacy Kolios and David Murga.

party with a purpose providing backpacks and school supplies for underprivileged kids all the while providing fun for US! The opening night VIP party took place on June 19 with catering provided by Boka

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Handsome mer-man, Gabriel Jimenez.

Catering Group. Lucky guests got a chance to experience the interactive fun for the first time, enjoying magical unicorns, trekking through bamboo forests, lighting up whimsical trees, riding on imaginary oceans, being enveloped by gentle octopuses, playing musical drums and flying into space! There is something for everyone, but it's only there for a limited time! Party-goers seen on the scene were David Murga, Oswaldo Garmo, Gabriel Jiminez, Ramsey Prince, 900 Shops' Stacy Kolios and Alicia Skruba, Samantha Thomas, Mal Marcus, Matthew Lahey, Tara Hoffman, Hannah May, Ashely Arnold-Sedgwick, The Mix's Lisa Allen, Kirsten Abrahamson, Maggie Glasser, CHE's Tom Carto and Trevor Heffernan, Adam McCarthy and many others. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

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Happy to see all of the support for breast cancer awareness happening around town. Mark your calendars for these two big "pink" events coming up! First up, lace up your shoes for the inaugural The Great Pink Run coming to Chicago’s Diversey Harbor on Saturday, Oct. 5. This family-friendly event offers a 5k run, jog or walk and a 10k challenge that will bring together

Aisling Hurley (president, Research A Cure); Martha Kavanagh (Glanbia head of corporate communications) and Alicia Cook (two-time breast cancer survivor).

walkers and runners, men, women and children, of all ages and levels in support of collaborative breast cancer programs between leading U.S. and Irish centers of excellence. Supported

Sonia O’Sullivan, Irish silver medal Olympian and 5000-meter World Champion, announces the inaugural Great Pink Run Chicago.

by Glanbia, a global nutrition group which has deep roots in the greater Chicago area, the event's proceeds will benefit Research A Cure, a nonprofit established to support international breast cancer research. This year, funds raised will support Chicago’s Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research at the University of Chicago, directed by Professor Geoffrey Greene, Ph.D. Irish Olympian and sporting legend, Sonia O’Sullivan, will lead the CARA-certified event. Participants are encouraged to dress in their most outrageous pink outfits and all will receive a fab pink T shirt, a finishers’ medal, some goodies but, most of all, will enjoy the “pinktastic” festival of fun. (Registration is available HERE!) There are over 11,000 cases of breast cancer diagnosed annually in

Aisling Hurley, Naoise Coogan, Martha Kavanagh, Glenn Thomas, Shona O’Neill, Sonia O’Sullivan.

Illinois. “We are very excited to bring the Great Pink Run to Chicago this year to support the amazing work U.S. and Irish scientists and researchers are doing

Martha Kavanagh, Glanbia head of corp. communications.

to help find a cure and provide less invasive treatment options for women – and men – diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Aisling Hurley, President of Research A Cure, an Illinois-based nonprofit dedicated to raising funding to support collaborative breast cancer research between the leading scientific minds in the U.S. and Ireland. Since 2011, funding from the Great Pink Run in Ireland has made a massive difference in changing the landscape of breast cancer treatment.

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And then, on Saturday, October 26, Susan G. Komen Chicago will hold its annual gala, this year themed "All Bets on Pink," at the Palmer House Hilton. This celebration of life will support Komen's commitment to combating breast cancer through advocacy, policy, funding breast health services and global research. The gala will recognize individuals in the field who are working to fight breast cancer and honor survivors and inspirational Chicagoans who have shown commitment and leadership in this fight. At the gala, guests will enjoy the glamour of Old Chicago while trying their hand at casino games and entertainment from the MoeFitz Project. For tickets, more info, click here!

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Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with her late mom, Angie Tarantino.

A life well lived was the loving takeaway at the funeral of Tracey Tarantino DiBuono's dear mom, Angela "Angie" Tarantino on June 24. She passed away at age 92 and ran Tracey's ZZAZZ Productions office for over 25 years as well as being a force in the community. The service at The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii was a testimony to her popularity. It was filled to the brim with friends, family and loved ones. In lieu of flowers, donations in Angie's memory can be made to the Service Club of Chicago.

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The late Lynda Silverman with her loving husband Howard.

More sad news with the passing of Lynda Silverman after her longtime battle with cancer. She was a dedicated member of the Service Club of Chicago and, during her 30 years with the nonprofit, she served in almost every officer's position. In recent years, she was the loving caretaker for her husband Howard who struggled with his own health challenges. She is survived by Howard and her daughter Mimi. She was a pillar in the Service Club and for all the other nonprofits she came in contact with. RIP dear Lynda.

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The late Jada Russell, gone too soon.

And at the age of 45, PR whiz and friend, Jada Russell passed away from breast cancer. She represented high powered clients like Dwayne Wade, Common, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Rhymefest, U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and even adoring husband, Chef Julius Russell (A Tale of Two Chefs). She used her talent to not only promote celebrity talent but also helped push for economic development in under-served communities. In addition to her husband, Jada is survived by her sister Sybil Goodlett Smith and father Bill Goodlett. (Read complete obit here)

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The late Phil Geier with his Julie.

We've lost a giant in the world of business and philanthropy with the passing of Phil Geier, loving husband of Julie Geier and brother-in-law to Chicago's own, Gayle Anthony, on June 19. I was so sorry to hear this sad news as Chuck and I got a chance to get to know him during our time together in Palm Beach. He and Julie were inseparable with him passing in her loving arms. They were a striking couple, handsome and beautiful with an encyclopedic knowledge of the world around them. Phil was the former chairman/CEO of The Interpublic Group of Companies and an avid art collector who served briefly on President George W. Bush's National Economic Council, in addition to a number of other affiliations and achievements. (Read his complete obit here). In Phil's memory, donations can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

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Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Operation Push.

Our Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas just keeps hitting 'em out of the ballpark! Lately, she partnered with Reverend Jesse Jackson and Operation Push to help Chicago seniors save their homes. Maria discovered that more than 7,600 suburban Cook County property owners are in line for property tax refunds! She is the hardest working public servant I know and we're so lucky to have her! Recently, Maria was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Operation Push. Congrats Maria! So deserving!

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The Shedd Aquarium Auxiliary Board will host its 13th annual fundraiser, BLU, a party with a porpoise (cute, huh?) for wildlife enthusiasts who want to make a difference for the aquatic animals everywhere, on Saturday, July 27. Out of the BLU will be a Zero Waste

Shedd BLU, party with a porpoise, under the stars!

event that aims to keep litter out of our waterways and help protect the planet. The night will feature special animal encounters, top Chicago restaurants and dancing on the beautiful outdoor terrace. Waddle down the blue carpet with Magellanic penguins, sip cocktails alongside sea lions and get up close to some of your favorite animals at the Shedd. Take photos with 10-foot octopus tentacles, walk heel to heel with drag queens, and marvel at “trashion” models wearing clothes made from plastic bottles and bags! For tickets and more info for BLU, co-chaired by Caroline Conese, Ronak Danak, and Dana Waud Floberg, click here!

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Charles Tillman returns as emcee, shown here with wife Jackie.

On Saturday, September 14, Saving tiny Hearts Society is going Back to the Future with its 14^th annual Saving tiny Hearts Gala. Held at the Fairmont Hotel, over 500 guests will attend the classic movie-themed event including dinner, entertainment and an Enchantment Under the Sea Dance! Francie and Brian Paul founded the "Saving tiny Hearts Society" in 2006 after their son Joshua was born and diagnosed with severe complex congenital heart disease. The couple immediately went to work after Joshua’s diagnosis to make a difference. They created a charity focused on supporting research to prolong, improve, and save the lives of children born with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD’s) like Joshua’s. Charles Tillman, former Chicago Bears cornerback, will return as event emcee. Tillman’s daughter Tiana, like Joshua Paul, has CHD, which makes Tillman a passionate supporter of Saving tiny Hearts Society and its overall mission.

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Greg Hines and Dr. Sandy Goldberg, A Silver Lining co-founders.

The 17^th annual Tasting Stars event, in support of A Silver Lining Foundation, was held on June 22 at DIRTT Environmental Solutions Showroom with over 120 supporters in attendance. Sponsored by the Washington Square Health Foundation, the French themed evening included multiple

Laurie Respass, Beth Bentley, Ann Carstensen and Tom Bentley.

tasting stations, raffles and silent and live auctions. Emcee Marley Kayden (of WGN) led a spirited live auction and an emotional fund-a- need with the event raising over $75,000. A Silver Lining Foundation’s co-founder, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, shared the story of the nonprofit which, from humble beginnings at their kitchen table, has grown to include 5 programs – the heart of which is Buy A Mom A

Marcus Riley and Jude Fitzgerald.

Mammogram® which funds all breast health testing for uninsured and under-insured women and men at 15 partner hospitals in the greater Chicagoland, Elgin and Rockford areas. After thanking her husband and ASLF co- founder Greg Hines, Dr. Sandy said. “No one is turned away. Due to the belief in our mission and, thanks to those who attended Tasting Stars, hundreds of lives will be eased and saved. There is no better silver lining.”

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Kudos to Windy City Live's Ryan Chiaverini! If you think he's just a hunky daytime talk show co-host, think again! His new song, "This is Country," is a real toe-tapper! And it doesn't hurt to have "Eye of the Tiger's" Jim Peterik on your team either! Check it out below and congrats, with love, Ryan!

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We attended the July 8 official opening night of Meredith Willson's "Music Man" at the Goodman Theatre and, even though I had visions of Robert Preston's iconic version in my head, this production (directed by Tony-Award winning director Mary Zimmerman) was a wonderfully nostalgic and delightful trip back to River City. The show has spectacular (and complicated) choreography, hum-able musical favorites and a superior cast. The opening night dinner honored Zimmerman's 25th anniversary as an Artistic Associate with the Goodman. The production headed for Broadway from here with Hugh Jackman playing the lead. See it before it leaves on August 18!

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We're finally enjoying the summer we've been waiting for (and deserve!) here in Chicago and I hope everyone is having a chance to enjoy it. The July 4th celebrations made me so proud to live in the U.S.A. and the long weekend offered us a chance to enjoy good friends and fine weather along the lakefront. I love all the neighborhood celebrations too with friend Raleigh Chin noting that she could see fireworks popping up all around the city from her apartment. Why can't we just legalize them already and save everyone long trips to Indiana!? Just sayin'…..

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as A Silver Lining Foundation, Angie Tarantino, Auditorium Theatre, BByMutha, BLU, Blu Bone, Camerone Parker McCulluch, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Charles Tillman, Chicago Botanic Garden, Christopher Palu, David Murga, Devils' Ball, DJ Hijo Prodigo, DJ Rae Chardonnay, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Elizabeth Foley, Friends of Conservation, Gabriel Jiminez, Gayle Anthony, Goodman Theatre, Jada Russell, Joe Matty, Johnathan Kayne Gillaspie, Jorie Butler Kent, Joshua Christensen, JourneyCare, JourneyCare Foundation, Julie Geier, Kidd Kenn, Korto Momolu, Lori Lightfoot, Lynda Silverman, Maria Pappas, Molly Carr, Music Man, Navy Pier, Offshore, Operation Push, Pamela Cramer, Peach Carr, Phil Geier, Pride, Professor Wrecks, Project Runway, Red Bull, Renaissance One, Reute Butler, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Ryan Chiaverini, Saving Tiny Hearts Society, Shedd Aquarium, Summer Dinner Dance, Susan G. Komen Chicago, The Great Pink Run, This is Country, Tom Kehoe, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, TT the Artist, Twista, Windy City Live, ZZAZZ Productions

January 30, 2019 · 4:20 pm

I’M SNOW IN LOVE WITH YOU CHICAGO!

JEAN BANCHET AWARDS; A "CANDID" NIGHT AT THE AMERICAN WRITERS MUSEUM; WOODY'S WINTER WARM-UP; EBONY POWER 100 GALA; BETH CELEBRATES 20; LESLIE GIVE US MUSEUM ACCESS; CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION NABS BRENDA; GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN; MEALS ON WHEELS CELEBRITY CHEF BALL; CATHOLIC CHARITIES SPIRIT OF ST. NICK BALL; CHICAGO UNITED'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY; REPLAY POPS UP FOR GOT FANS; BEACH CHICAGO; EVENING IN BLOOM FOR CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; PATRICK J. RYAN'S BOXING FOR CHARITY; BEAR TIE BALL 2019; VIVICA STARS AT GIGI'S PLAYHOUSE GALA; A VERY SPECIAL GERBER SPOKESBABY; CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE'S "SWEETS FOR SIGHT"; STYLE RIVALS FASHION SHOW COMPETITION; HOUSEWARES CARES CHARITY GALA; A CHAT WITH AEWHEELHOUSE; VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Restaurant of the Year - George Trois with Presenters [FULL CAPITON IN EXCEL DOC]

Restaurant of the Year-George Troiss (2nd from right) with Mary Kay Bonoma (Executive VP, Illinois Restaurant Association); Sergio Angel and Michael Lachowicz, Kevin Boehm (Co-founder Boka Restaurant Group).

Over 400 culinary enthusiasts gathered at Venue Six10 for the 2019 Jean Banchet Awards on January 17. Presented by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence are the only Chicago-based awards ceremony that

Pizzeria Bebu-Best Neighborhood Restaurant

recognize culinary originality and talent throughout the region. Guests were greeted with a champagne reception followed by the award ceremony hosted by Michael Muser, former partner and general manager at Grace.

Chef of the Year Jason Hammel (R) with presenter Andrew Zimmerman.

A selection of award winners included Restaurant of the Year, Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Best New Restaurant, Best Service, and a new category this year, Best Counter Service. During the ceremony, legendary chef and restaurateur Michael Foley was awarded the Banchet Culinary Achievement Award. (Following the Banchet Awards, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host the Grand Chef’s Experience at

S.K.Y.–Best New Restaurant

the Field Museum on February 1, where all nominated restaurants will be honored and event attendees will be treated to tastings from top chefs in Chicago’s culinary scene. Full Winners List: Restaurant of the Year— George Trois/ Chef of the Year—Jason Hammel (Lula Café, Marisol)/ Rising Chef of the Year—Alisha Elenz (mfk. restaurant)/ Best Chef-de-Cuisine—Ryan Pfeiffer (Blackbird)/ Pastry Chef of the Year—Nicole Guini

Best Bar–Moody Toungue (Jeremy Cohn and Jared Rubin)

(Blackbird, Avec)/ Rising Pastry Chef of the Year—Elaine Townsend (Fat Rice)/ Best Neighborhood Restaurant—Pizzeria Bebu/ Best Heritage Restaurant—A Place by DAMAO/ Best New Restaurant—S.K.Y./ Best Sommelier—Jill Gubesch (Frontera Grill, Topolobampo, Leña Brava)/ Best Mixologist—Stephanie Andrews (Billy Sunday)/ Best

Nicole Guini–Pastry Chef of the Year

Restaurant Design—Pacific Standard Time/ Best Service—Temporis/ Best Counter Service—Calumet Fisheries/ Best Bar—Moody Tongue. —-The Jean Banchet Panel consists of Chicago's

Best Restaurant Design–Pacific Standard Time (Donnie Madia)

foremost food and beverage journalists, photographers and elite gastronomes. The panel gathers throughout the year to discuss, compare, and contrast experiences at a variety of culinary establishments. They are required to dine and drink at as many different places as possible throughout the year — from hot dogs to fine dining and everything in between. No members of the Jean Banchet Panel are affiliated with any of Chicagoland's restaurants or bars. (Photos by Katie Coyle)

"Getting Candid with Candace" with Laura Schwartz.

What an honor to be spotlighted at the American Writers Museum and what a thrill to be interviewed by the one-woman-dynamo Laura Schwartz for the January 24 "Getting Candid with Candace" benefit! Laura is an author, public speaker, ex-President Clinton staffer, TV contributor and more–in short, a powerhouse

Eli's Cheesecake's Marc and Maureen Schulman with adorable branded dessert dippers for the party!

for sure! Thank you for making me look good Miss Laura! The Museum is such a wonder too, a cultural jewel located on the 2nd floor of the 180 N. Michigan building. Fairly new, it's the first museum solely devoted to celebrating

With Laurie Dimakos, David Lawlor, Chuck, Betsy Shepherd, Michael Caputo and John Walcher.

American writers and their works. It's a must-see! Even though it was freezing outside, it was warm and cozy inside with an SRO crowd. My Playboy Bunny costume (the one appraised on the Antiques Roadshow)

Dennis and Judy Schwartz, Laura Schwartz, Andrea Stryker and Dr. Steve Stryker.

was displayed and it tickled me to see so many people posing beside it. All those many years ago when I was jumping in and out of it, who could've known it would be such an iconic symbol of the much

With Chicago Tribune's Rick Kogan and Amy Carr, and Laura Schwartz.

loved Playboy brand? I was so pleased and happy to see so many familiar faces in the crowd too like Tracey Tarantino, Mary Pat Burns, Jean Antoniou, Judi Kalata (who I was a

Museum board member Olivia Luk Bedi.

Bunny with at the Chicago Playboy Club), Michael Caputo, Mark Olley, Helen Melchior, Pierre Lockett, Laurie Dimakos, Renata Block, Jolanta Reuge, Stacy Kolios and Alicia Skruba (my 900 Shops friends), David Murga, David Lawlor (the man who makes this blog possible), Rhonda Sanderson with

Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with Joey Alissa Berman

Mallory (Marc Jacobs), Sanjay Sharma, John P. Walcher, Sandy Golub, Nicki Fioretti, Betsy Shepherd, Mike Foran, Marie Mancuso and Marcos Cruz, Tina Koegel, Wendy Krimins, Amy Carr, Rick Kogan and his Kate Murray, Laura's darling family (mom Judy, dad Dennis, sister

Michael Caputo and Jean Antoniou

Andrea Stryker and brother-in-law Dr. Steve Stryker), Patricia Mocco, Betty Blair, Rita Ryan, Jennifer Kelly, Elizabeth Shepherd, Kim Shepherd, Cheryl Hall, Heather Grove, Jan Kostner, Samantha Lera, Naomi Hoover, Liesl McDonald, Anna Zaltz, Carinne Nicosia, David Gaudet and Ronnie Brooks, Bill Natale, Cyndi Rosenberg, Molly Starnes and so

With Judi Kalata Altiere, Rhonda Sanderson and Mallory

many more. Before the convo began, guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before being seated. Then, Eli's Cheesecake party dippers were served branded in white icing with "Candid Candace" and a Playboy Bunny logo on top. They were so cute and, as we all know, it's not a real party unless Eli's is there! (Love and thanks to

John Walcher, pretty friend, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel and Andrea Schwartz.

John Walcher, Sue Wyderka, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel and Andrea Schwartz.

Maureen and Marc Schulman, not only for this special treat but for coming out in the cold to support me.) The convo opened with a short video created by Josh Bowen of Kurtis Productions (see it

Pierre Lockett, Stacy Kolios, Alicia Skruba and David Murga.

here) It was a "This is Your Life" kind of video that covered everything from an early clip of me as a Bunny to my recent BBC documentary with Harry Potter star Miriam Margolyes. Laura had copious notes and we talked about

Renata Block and Jolanta Reuge

EVERYTHING! Since she is soon-to-be-married (to the beautiful Susan Santiago), there was even some marriage advice thrown in for good measure. The crowd asked great questions too and the hour flew by. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did. It was a night I'll never forget. Right

Mark Olley, Nicki Fioretti (R) and friend.

Mark Olley, Karri Kartes, Nicki Fioretti.

now, the Museum is hosting an exciting exhibit titled "Bob Dylan: Electric" which will be running through April 30. The exhibit spotlights his writing – song, poetry, and prose – between his 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance and 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature. Items on display include Dylan’s personal

Marie Mancuso and Marcos Cruz

copy of The Catcher in the Rye and an original 1965 Newport Folk Festival program autographed by Dylan. Also included are original pages from the film script of the 1967 Bob Dylan documentary

The always adorable Sandy Golub.

Don’t Look Back and Dylan’s collection of prose and poetry Tarantula. The exhibit’s keystone piece is the electric guitar Bob Dylan played at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. The performance, referred to as “The Newport Incident," is his first ever live performance with a full, electric band and marked a dramatic shift in his writing and popularity. The guitar, a 1964 brown

Michael Foster and friend.

sunburst Fender Stratocaster, was discovered in 2012 by the family of an airline pilot who flew Bob Dylan from Newport Folk Festival and sold for nearly $1 million a year later. It was the highest price ever paid for a guitar at auction. (The guitar is on loan

Cyndi Roppolo Rosenberg, Alicia Skruba and David Murga.

from the collection of James S. Irsay). So, as you can see, there is magic in every nook and cranny at this museum so I hope you will visit! (Discover more about it and sign up here!) It's a perfect spot for private events too! Special thanks to Museum board

Molly Starnes Laura Schwartz, Samantha Lera, Lauren Reilly Schwartz.

member Olivia Luk Bedi who is also an attorney with Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg. She was responsible for giving me this exciting opportunity! She recently appeared as the cover story feature for the magazine Super Lawyers! Congrats and thank you so much Olivia! Can't wait to come back and soak it all in! See more photos by MILA SAMOKHINA here: Photo Gallery

Kerry and Sarah Wood

Sarah and Kerry Wood hit another home run at their 8th annual Woody's Winter Warm-Up! Everywhere you looked, there was a famous baseball or media star or a cool celebrity like John Cusack and Bonnie Hunt. Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch was packed with over 400 fans who turned out to support this much loved event that benefits the Wood Family Foundation, a non-profit that provides programs and services for CPS students (grades 4-8) in under-served communities. The night began with a VIP reception where players could chill after they arrived from the Cubs Convention and before the madness and fun began. The evening

Ryan Dempster and Grant DePorter

included exciting silent and live auctions, live music by the Suburban Cowboys, fabulous food buffets and lotsa celebrity bartending. Throughout the night, stars competed for tips behind the bar with all

John Cusack and Bonnie Hunt

the proceeds (tips) benefiting the charity. I spied Cubs players Ian Happ, Albert Almora, Kyle Schwarber, David Bote, Rowan Wick and Adbert Alzolay. Former Cubs in attendance included Randy Hundley, Jim Bullinger, Bobby Dernier, Todd Hanley, Bill Madlock, Mike Remlinger, Randy Wells,

Windy City Live's Ryan Chiaverini sings "Eye of the Tiger" with Survivor founder Jim Peterik!

Kyle Farnsworth, Augie Ojeda and Ryan Dempster. More star power was provided by local media personalities Stylz & Roman, Ryan Baker, Dionne Miller, Ryan Chiaverini, Kelly

The gang's all here! Lisa Fielding and Michelle Mekky with friends.

Crull, Lisa Fielding, Brendan Greeley, Melissa McGurren, Danny Parkins, Joe Soto, Sarah Spain and Pat Tomasulo. Besides Cusack and Hunt, other actors on hand included Thomas Ian Nicholas, Mickey O'Sullivan, Rusty Schwimmer and Robyn

Israel Idonije and Sarah Wood.

Coffin. This night was definitely a head-spinner with all the excitement! Partygoers went wild when Survivor founder Jim Peterik took the stage to sing his classic hit "Eye of the Tiger" (made famous as the Rocky III theme) with Windy City Live's Ryan Chiaverini. And

Plain White T's Tom Higgenson sings "Hey Delilah" with the Suburban Cowboys band.

the fun didn't end there as the lead singer for the Plain White T's Tom Higgenson jumped onstage to sing his band's Grammy nominated song "Hey, Delilah" accompanied by Kyle Schwarber! I was thrilled to attend another successful fundraiser, that brought in over $170,000, for the foundation's youth programs and services, including its Pitch In program that provides mentorship for students at Richard Yates Elementary School and the Lawndale Community Academy. See more fun coverage here in the Chicago Tribune! (Photos by Kenny Kim, Juan Martinez) You can help Pitch In by clicking here!

Ebony Media Operations Chairman Emeritus Linda Johnson Rice

Some of Hollywood's biggest names from the film and television worlds joined more than 600 guests to celebrate community champions and industry titans from across the country at the annual EBONY Power 100 Gala at the Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles. Presented by Nationwide, the annual EBONY Power 100 List recognizes the most influential and inspiring individuals from a broad spectrum of industry genres, across eight categories: Community Crusaders, Disruptors, Entertainment & Arts, Entrepreneurs, Innovators, MVPs, Power Players and the coveted Women Up category. Hosted by actor/comedian Chris Tucker, the star-studded spectacle was attended

Susan Kelechi Watson and Melanie Liburd-This is Us

by the who's who in sports, entertainment, business, philanthropy, politics and social activism. Notable celebrities and high-profile personalities who attended included David Oyelowo (Selma), Kat Graham (Vampire Diaries), Ne-Yo (singer), Chris Tucker (actor/comedian), Susan Kelechi Watson (This Is Us), Melanie Liburd (This Is Us), Bianca Lawson and Kofi Siriboe (Queen Sugar)

Chris Tucker, Susan Kelechi Watson

Dyllón Burnside, Hailie Sahar, Indya Moore and Steven Canals (Pose), Debra Lee (former CEO of BET), Ethiopia Habtemariam (Motown president), J.B. Smoove (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Sugar Ray Leonard (legendary boxer), Cedric Yarborough (actor), Ernie Hudson (actor), Cari Champion (ESPN), Mayor Andrew Gillum (Tallahassee, Florida), Mayor London Breed (San Francisco) and Mayor Stephen Benjamin (Columbia, South Carolina), Saweetie (singer), Hayley Law (actress), Marque Richardson (Dear White People), Israel Houghton (singer) and Adrienne Houghton (TV

Indya Moore and Shaun Ross

personality) Mehgan James (actress), Don Benjamin (model/musician), Amin Joseph (actor), Eva Marcille (actress/model), Deborah Ayorinde (actress), Courtney Kemp (co-creator, Power) and Symone Sanders (CNN), among others. Celebrity couples in attendance included Yolanda Adams (gospel singer), who attended on the arm of honoree Titus O’Neil (WWE star), and Cynthia Bailey (actress/model) joined beau Mike Hill (Fox Sports). "This year's gala was the most memorable to-date," said EBONY Media Operations CEO Michael Gibson. "We honored the most eclectic group of outstanding individuals and prolific leaders who

James Davis performs

represent excellence in their respective fields." Following the introduction of actor/host Tucker, remarks were given by EBONY Media Operations Chairman Emeritus Linda Johnson Rice with Angela Bretz introducing a heartfelt video about the legacy of EBONY Power 100. The EBONY Chairman's Award was presented to former BET Chairman and CEO Debra Lee. Recording artist Ne-Yo performed.

Ne-Yo performs

(The complete 2018 EBONY Power 100 List can be viewed by clicking here! ) The gala was hosted by EBONY Foundation and benefited the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.

Beth Silverman and the Chicago Tribune theater critic Chris Jones

Beth Silverman and her PR firm, The Silverman Group, celebrated their 20th anniversary in grand style at City Winery on January 10. The room was packed with friends, clients, media cohorts and more, all to celebrate this much loved lady and her fabulous firm. From humble beginnings to being a powerhouse now,

The Silverman Group's (TSG) 20th anniversary kickoff party-jam packed!

Beth has helped some of the city's most notable clients expand and enrich their public profiles. Beth delivered a short speech, thanking her many well wishers, before guests resumed

Colleen Flanigan, Judie Green, Joan Colmar and Jean de St. Aubin

mixing and mingling. Seen on the scene were DCASE Commissioner Mark Kelly, Chris Jones (Chicago Tribune theater

Commissioner Mark Kelly and Elizabeth Neukirch

critic), Gillian Darlow (Polk Bros. Foundation), Joan Colmar with fiance Mitchell Sabshon, Helen Melchior, Dr. Lauren Streicher and hubby Jason Brett, Janet Carl Smith and Mel Smith, Phil Lumpkin and Bill Tedford, Ken Norgan, Janet Davies (ABC7), Hedy Weiss (WTTW TV), Judie Green (Auditorium Theatre), Ken Norgan, Carrie Lannon, Nick Harkin, Michael Foster, Lisa Middleton (Lyric

Margaret O'Connor, Morgan Harris, Laura Schwartz and Dr. Michael O'Meara

Opera), Jamey Lundblad (DCASE) and Bill Melamed (Chicago Humanities Festival), Margaret O’Connor and Michael O'Meara, Laura Schwartz, Dawn Stanislaw (Visceral Dance), John Walcher (Toomey Auctions), David Zivan (Modern Luxury), Frank Sennett (Crain’s Chicago Business) and Denise Schneider (Goodman Theatre). It was a feel good night celebrating Silverman Group's 20 successful years! Kudos to all! (Photos by Robin Subar)

the new Gerber Spokesbaby!

Gerber's newest Spokesbaby is Lucas Warren, a 1-year-old from Dalton, Georgia who is the first child with Down syndrome to be named a Gerber baby since the contest's start in 2010. "He's very outgoing and never meets a stranger," Lucas's mom, Cortney said. "He loves to play, loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh." Cortney Warren said she entered the contest on a whim after a relative pointed out an ad seeking submissions. After posting a photo of Lucas on Instagram using the contest's hashtag, Cortney and her husband Jason received the news that their son had been chosen from more than 140,000 entries to be the 2018 Gerber Spokesbaby. Just love this! Can't wait to see more images of darling baby Lucas!

Leslie Mueller at the Museum of Science and Industry

Huge congrats to Chicago native Leslie Mueller who is the host and executive producer of Museum Access, a new television show on PBS that was recently picked up by Amazon Prime! Leslie grew up in Deerfield, graduated from Deerfield High School and began her training at the Art Institute of Chicago at the age of 13. Season 1, which is 10 half-hour episodes, was filmed and aired in 2018. Several of the museums Leslie visited are in Chicago. Season 2 (also 10 episodes) is completed and has started airing in

Leslie Mueller at the MET

various markets throughout the country. She loves what she does, is super passionate about museums and sharing them with the world and it shows! The series, produced and hosted by Mueller and Museum Access Media, takes

Leslie Mueller at the Field Museum

viewers behind-the-scenes at some of the country’s top museums. Each 30-minute episode offers exciting stories, in-depth conversations with experts and fascinating footage in areas that museum guests don’t have the opportunity to see. I love, love, love this concept and can't wait to check it out!

Brenda Langstraat, the new president of the Chicago Public Library Foundation

Bob Wislow, Chicago Public Library Foundation chairman, shared the exciting news that the much loved Brenda Langstraat will be the new President! "Brenda is a highly experienced Chicago CEO and fundraiser whose personal and professional values align perfectly with our Foundation’s and the Library’s commitment to 'the freedom to read, to learn, to discover,'" said Wislow. Brenda's 20-year career serving Chicago based organizations has been driven by the belief that creating empowered communities of learners will transform lives and support the advancement of our city’s neighborhoods. She joins the Foundation after seven years of serving as CEO of Working in the Schools (WITS), the largest literacy organization that collaborates with Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Congrats with love Brenda!

RIP Randy Crumpton

I was so very sad to learn of the passing of Chicago's own Randy Crumpton. "He was one of Chicago's premier socialite-connectors, particularly for the African American community," said friend James Ramos. I would always see Randy at worthy charity events around town–he was always a great supporter and always had a smile on his face. Friend Ken Bennett, father of Chance the Rapper, called him a "house head." He was also a great friend of Frankie Knuckles, the late deejay dubbed the godfather of house music. Frankie Knuckles Foundation founder Frederick Dunson was a dear, dear friend and I had a lot of fun with them both at the last benefit. Film Festival founder Michael Kutza recalled him as a "reliable, calm presence." An attorney, Randy grew up in Roseland and attended law school at the University of Iowa. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. RIP dear Randy.

More sad news to report, the Voice of Fashion, Susan Glick, has left us way too soon. She was an intricate part of the fabric of Chicago's fashion community. The Apparel Industry Board remembers her as "the common thread and glue that holds us together." She was a tough professional who knew the business like no other. RIP Susan.

Ken Meyer, Alpana Singh, Alexa and Eric Williams

Meals on Wheels Chicago celebrated the 30th anniversary of their signature fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Ball at Morgan Manufacturing on November 9. WTTW Check Please! host and restaurateur Alpana Singh served as honorary chair

Shilpa Desai, Anamika Das, Archana Patel, Jigna Patel

and MC for the event that featured chefs Cory Morris (Boleo), Devon Quinn (Eden), Paul Virant (Vie/Vistro), Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven), and many more. The Ball

Nude Due with steak appetizer

included two parties: VIP Chef’s Table and the Chef’s Tasting Party. The VIP Chef’s Table began at 6 p.m. with a pre-event cocktail reception, followed by an intimate dining experience. Seated in small clusters, each group was served by three chefs and a mixologist and enjoyed a six-course dinner, an array of pastry specialties and a live auction. The VIP Chef’s Table ticket holders enjoyed entry to the Chef’s Tasting Party where there was a dine-around of over 40 chef and cocktail stations, a raffle, silent auction and dancing. Proceeds from the event supported Meals on Wheels Chicago's mission to promote independence for Chicago seniors and individuals with disabilities through meal delivery. (Photos by Ken Carl and @tableanddish)

Chairs Michael and Claire O'Grady, Monsignor Cardinal Blase Cupich and vice-chairs Rhonda and Scott Swanson.

Catholic Charities hosted its 29^th Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball to benefit the children served by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago on December 7. Held at the Hilton Chicago, more than 1,300 guests attended this black tie event featuring entertainment by the Ken Arlen Orchestra. Donations

Catherine and Charles Walgreen, Father Michael Gzresik

of new, unwrapped children’s toys and gifts were accepted at the entrance for distribution through Catholic Charities. The gala was hosted by Most Reverend Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, and Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland, President of Catholic Charities, along with

Katie and Marty Bredemann

chair couple Mr. and Mrs. Scott Swanson and vice chair couple Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Castellini. “Each year, more than 115,000 children are supported by Catholic Charities programs. We would not be able to provide quality after-school care, counseling services, housing for families and so much more without the support that is shown at the annual Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball,” said Monsignor Boland. “This past year we were able to expand our counseling services to increase support to children impacted by the trauma of

Matt Doyle, Amy Goldsmith

violence, which can have devastating lasting effects.” Proceeds from the event benefited the children served by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago and its child development centers, after-school programs, counseling services, and teen parenting centers. The Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball celebrates the life of Saint Nicholas, a fourth century bishop, and the generosity and care towards children that was illustrated during his lifetime, becoming a model for Santa Clause. Each year on December 6^th, his feast is commemorated all over the world.

Chicago United's CEO/Pres. Gloria Castillo presents inaugural Bridge Compass Awards

Chicago United’ celebrated its 50^thAnniversary Gala at the Hilton Chicago to celebrate the organization’s decades long legacy of achieving parity in economic opportunity by advancing multiracial leadership, corporate governance, executive level management and business diversity. At the gala,

Gloria Castillo with John Robak, Anne Pragaggiore and John Rogers.

winners of the first-ever Bridge Compass Award were announced. This award honors organizations that have committed to industry change through active and effective programs to advance multiracial leadership. Chicago United CEO and President Gloria Castillo presented the award to representatives of CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, the Financial Services Pipeline (FSP) Initiative and Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council (IUBDC).

Just because the holidays are over, doesn't mean pop-up bars are kaput too! Replay Lincoln Park is now capitalizing on Game of Thrones’ final TV season which releases in April, according to Eater Chicago. Management will decorate its arcade bar in homage to the HBO fantasy drama and they’ll sell GoT beer from Brewery Ommegang. The Game of Thrones pop-up starts on February 1 at Replay, 2833 N. Sheffield

Great Insta Opps coming to Replay Lincoln Park for GOT fans!

Avenue. A news release claims visitors will be able to explore the seven kingdoms from the TV show based on a series of books by George R.R. Martin. Replay will commemorate Game of Thrones’ fans favorite episodes including The Red Wedding. Management is even promising some sort of jousting competition. The space should be Instagram friendly so customers could take photos next to the show’s famous Iron Throne and other props. A release warns of “White Walkers” and mentions dragons. There’s also trivia nights and specialty drinks including “Dothaquiri.” Admission is free, but unlike past pop-ups, customers have another option if they want to pay $20. The VIP package lets them cut lines for photos, “express” entry, a pint of mead of beer in a souvenir goblet, and a commemorative pin or print. OMG! I just can't wait! Thanks for the tip Eater Chicago!

Who isn't ready for spring?! Well, here's a remedy! The Chicago Flower & Garden Show is right around the corner starting with Evening in Bloom, the opening

Hort Couture fashion show will be the highlight of the Evening in Bloom event

night celebration, on Tuesday, March 19. The event will benefit Bernie's Book Bank, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Get Growing Foundation. I'm thrilled to return as emcee of Hort Couture, the out-of-this-world floral fashion show showcasing the best of the best in fashion and floral design! Get tickets, more info here!

Go ringside and wear your Friday night best for a great cause! The Patrick J. Ryan Main Event & Casino Night returns on February 1 to Drury Lane in Oak Brook. Hosted by the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the event will support the LOSS Program for Children and Youth (kids who have lost a loved one to suicide). For tickets, more info, click here!

I love the theme for this year's Bear Tie Ball benefiting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation! "Candyland," co-chaired by Kristine Farra and Michael Palumbo, will be held on Sat., March 2 at the UIC Forum. For tix/info, click here!

Stunning actress Vivica A. Fox will host this year's GiGi's Playhouse – Chicago Gala, "i have a Voice," on Sat., Feb. 2 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel! The event supports Gigi's Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers which provide FREE life-changing programming for children and adults with Down syndrome. For tickets/more info, click here!

The Chicago Lighthouse Junior Board will host "Sweets for Sight" on Thursday, February 7 at Carnivale. The event will benefit Lighthouse programs for children who are blind or visually impaired. For tickets, more info, click here!

Long, long ago in a photo shoot far, far away STYLE.RIVALS gave talented stylists from across the Chicagoland area an opportunity to show up and show out their fiercest skills on a battle stage like no other! Join in and witness the 3rd Annual STYLE.RIVALS Fashion Show Competition on Friday, April 5 at Trigger Chicago (2810 W. Addison). Watch as some of the mid-west's best fashion stylists battle it out to be crowned the 3rd Annual STYLE.RIVALS Fashion Champion. A runway competition will decide the winners! A portion of the tickets sales will benefit Smarty Pants are Leaders, a nonprofit that empowers youth by building self-confidence. (I'm thrilled to return as a judge!) For tickets, more info, click here!

The Housewares Charity Foundation will host its annual Housewares Cares Charity Gala on Monday, March 4, in Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom. The mission of the Foundation is to raise funds for designated charities and help unite and promote the philanthropic image of the housewares industry. In a collaborative effort among industry manufacturers, retailers and allied industry partners, the Foundation hosts this annual charitable dinner that coincides with the International Home + Housewares Show with a goal to raise funds for charities, unite its industry and honor its leaders. For tickets, more info, click here!

Beach Chicago at Navy Pier

We had the BEST time at Beach Chicago, a free interactive public art installation on display now through February 3 in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier! Presented in partnership with EXPO CHICAGO and

Life's a BEACH at Navy Pier!

created by Snarkitecture, the installation transforms the Pier's 18,000-square-foot space into an indoor beach, complete with lounge chairs, lifeguard chairs, umbrellas, inflatables and signage that mimic the sensation of a day at the Beach. Don't miss it and no sun-screen required!

With Wheelhouse hosts Mo Dadkhah and John Lally (R) and Shopping Girl's Lora LaPratt

Love and thanks to AE Wheelhouse, a podcast spotlighting "ambitious entrepreneurs"! I had a great time discussing a variety of topics and chatting with Lora LaPratt, a super cool personal stylist, and Wheelhouse hosts Mo Dadkhah and John Lally. Lora was a delight and had so many great styling tips! Check her out at Shopping Girl XOXO! (The segment can be seen here.)

Look for Candid Candace in the Tribune's new LIFE+TRAVEL section!

I hoped you liked the new, improved Life+Travel section that debuted Sunday in the Chicago Tribune! This new section replaces the smaller formatted Life+Style section! Look for your favorites, like Candid Candace (wink, wink), Heidi Steven's Balancing Act, Answer Angel Ellen, Rick Steves and so much more! Check it out every Sunday (and see it here!) and let me know what you think!

That's it for this week! Hope you're staying warm! If you have pets, please check out these cold weather tips from the American Humane Society and keep your furry friends safe!

Love, as always,

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Television, Web/Tech, Weblogs

January 8, 2015 · 2:12 pm

2015 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FROM THE MOVERS, SHAKERS AND JUST PLAIN COOL!

PLUS NYE AT THE CASINO; DELANO SOUTH BEACH'S STAR-STUDDED NYE PARTY; BAILIWICK CHICAGO'S COOL AUCTION GALA; HAPPY 125TH TO AUDITORIUM THEATRE; BLOGGING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT (NOT ME); MOST POPULAR CHICAGO CELEB HANGOUT; AMY GUTH'S EXCITING WGN RADIO NEWS; DONNIE LOVES JENNY (VIDEO) AND SO MUCH MORE!

2015. I can hardly believe it….time is flying by so quickly! Last year already seems like a blur to me. I have lots of plans for this year and I hope you've made some, too. I really don't believe in resolutions because, typically, they go unrealized. I prefer to use the word "plans" because it denotes a solid course of action. Mostly though, my plans/hopes are more of a sentimental nature rather than a work-oriented one. I want to slow down a bit and really appreciate what I have, where I've been and where I want to go. I want to travel more and spend more time with my friends, near and far. I want to hug my husband and play with my Chihuahuas–oh, I still have my ambitions, but I want to combine them in a more balanced overall package. I love my work and want to grow it, but I also want to play more, too! Here are New Year's goals/dreams from some of our town's Movers & Shakers!

Donna LaPietra and Bill Kurtis

Donna LaPietra (beloved philanthropist; Kurtis Productions): With all Donna and Bill do for Chicago, it's no surprise that they had a quiet NYE. Every night for them is a party so this is her witty response: "Sorry to say we neither moved nor shook — let alone stirred. But very happy to be welcoming a new year!" LOL!

Jessica Zweig and her soon-to-be-husband Brian Fisher

Jessica Zweig–(Bride-to-be, former CheekyChicago.com, now
JessicaZweig.com)–2015 is the year I become a wife, so my largest new year's resolution is to build the strongest foundation for my marriage with the greatest friend, partner and soon-to-be husband (Brian Fisher) a woman could ask for. I manifested and accomplished so much of what I set out to do in

Eli and Jessie Kalin Mash

2014, and so my 2015 intention is to ride this wave of abundance, joy and love…and to let more of it in.

Jessie Kalin Mash— (Newlywed, Emmy award winning Style Producer for ABC 7 Chicago's Windy City LIVE)– We actually rang in the new year at a good friend's wedding at Hotel Monaco. It was the perfect setting for New Year's Eve. The wedding ceremony was at 7:30pm – and then we celebrated the new couple and new year until 1:30 am. My new year's resolution is to learn how to cook! We received such fancy

Melissa Forman and Family

cookware for our wedding earlier this year… and now I need to learn how to use it!

Melissa Forman–(WCIU's "You & Me This Morning" co-host, happy mother of four)–Her resolution? Just keep jumping for joy!!!!!

Borris Powell

Borris Powell–(fashion designer, SEX + LOVE creative director)–This year I did the Eve of Eve Party at Union Station. It was everything that I thought it would be and more… For sure the place to be. I wanted to get the HUGE gathering out of my system because I really enjoy being with a small group of friends in one of our homes when the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Morning… I never make resolutions, just goals… I set goals throughout the year to keep me on track of my future wants and needs. Going into 2015, my goals are to ensure that I have another dress on a Major Red Carpet. I've now had a piece at the Oscars, the Grammys, and The 2014 Emmys. I'm looking for my 4th and maybe 5th in 2015, I'm also working on 2 shows that I want to have contracts on this year. One would be my own show and the other is the show called SEX + LOVE where I've been named creative director of fashion. And now that I've signed

Tina Weller and Mary Lasky on NYE

a major contract with a nanotechnology company, I'm excited that I am the 1st to bring you stain-proof garments in the luxury world of Fashion… And these are just a few things that I'm introducing this year…

Tina Weller (Weller Dental) with Mary Lasky (Service Club members extraordinaire)– "We (the Wellers) rang in the New Year at Fig & Olive–we sat in the lounge by the DJ and enjoyed cocktails and dinner as we danced and laughed. We were joined by Mary and Jim Lasky and Michael Burkamira and Janet Lee. My

David Heiner and Whitney Reynolds

resolutions this year are fitness related. I hope to be in the best shape possible and have been working on this goal since Fall 2014. I also want to spend more time with my family."

Whitney Reynolds (The Whitney Reynolds Show)–"We (David Heiner and I) went to Hugo's Frog Bar for dinner and then rang in the NY over champagne and board games with our close friends and four-legged babies. Resolutions: 1. Grow The Whitney Reynolds Show to new PBS markets with permanent time slots. 2. Start journaling about my childhood and the funny adventures of this small town southern girl that's made her way in this big city."

Elysabeth Alfano and Ken Kornbluh in Mexico

Elysabeth Alfano (Creator/Executive Producer and Host The Dinner Party)–"My New Year’s Resolution is the same every year: to have the peace of mind to be my authentic self, and the serenity to acknowledge those I love- family, friends and pets – and my blessed life while pursuing my passion. And when life gets so busy and chaotic that I stray, I keep trying to find my way back to a place a gratitude and balance. To sing and/or hum more around the house."

Kristina McGrath–(PR/Customer Service Outreach McGrath Lexus)–"We hosted a "last minute" New Years Eve party at our

Mike and Kristina McGrath

home in Utah. It was filled with about 100 family and friends. The best part was that I didn't hire a caterer and we girls spent the day cooking. I couldn't have dreamed of better quality time! My wish for 2015 is to simplify my life. Sometimes it's too easy to hire people to do things. Our lives move too quickly and I want to slow down. New Year's Day was spent designating responsibilities to my family–I had the joy of watching my nieces blow up balloons and decorate with "tacky" Wal-Mart decorations (sorry Wal-Mart fans!) while the guys cooked the meat–alllll day long! Of course we could've hired someone to decorate, but nothing made me

Amie Hana

happier than to watch their excitement. This might not have been the fanciest party, but it was the most special New Year's Eve party thus far!"

Amie Hana (Photographer; graphic design artist)–"My hope for 2015 is for a greener world !! Why not add one or two GREEN mini-resolutions to your New Year’s list this year? Much smaller in scale than many of the lofty goals we make and break year after year, these steps can add green cheer all year long to our environment, health and even our pocketbook. Recycle your Christmas tree through the TreeCycle Program; refuel your vehicles during the evenings; carpool; take the bus;

Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecori

bike and walk more; turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth; take shorter showers, repair faulty plumbing and collect rainwater for your plants. It's such easy steps that make such a difference.

Nicki Pecori (Director of Community Affairs at Illinois Housing Development Authority) and Bob Fioretti (2nd Ward Alderman and Mayoral Candidate)—"Bob (Fioretti) and I stayed home for New Year's Eve and it was wonderful! I made a delicious dinner: mixed green salad with balsamic dressing, shaved parmigiano-reggiano and dried cranberries; grilled salmon with honey mustard glaze; roasted new potatoes with fresh rosemary from my indoor herb garden; buttered

Bunky Cushing surrounded by admirers

asparagus spears and a champagne toast. We resolve to eat healthy, continue to work hard, and enjoy each day of the new year! We also watched two of Bob's DVR'd episodes of Superman (circa 1952) with George Reeves while we waited for the clock to strike midnight."

Bunky Cushing–(Beloved man-about-town, author "Squire of Society", philanthropist)– "Write more, Eat less; Walk more, Worry less." (I love this).

Marcus Riley (President of the local chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and popular event

Kay Yasin and Marcus Riley (Pic by Dwayne Kuan)

host)– "I did it up big again this year at HighSight's Eve of the Eve celebration at Union Station. This annual event attracts thousands with proceeds benefiting the organization's scholarship programs. We kept it closer to home on New Year's Eve with a more intimate party at Ravenswood's "Grand Tour," and later boogied in 2015 to the sounds of DJ Ryan Ross at "The Southern" in Wicker Park."

Michael Caputo

Michael Caputo–(Director of Marketing, Spex/ 21 Chicago locations/ Voted 'best eyewear' in Chicago READER poll.) –"New Year's Eve? I was home settling into SHOWTIME's "Penny Dreadful" series marathon with an icy bottle of prosecco! Commercial breaks found me writing New Year cards to out-of-state friends that I simply couldn't dash a Christmas card to before the big day. My New Year Resolution is to stop using my kitchen only for cocktail ice; I want to spend more time preparing good food for friends. I made a

Dorri McWhorter

terrific lasagne for Christmas and took a pic like any proud mama!"

Dorri McWhorter (YWCA Metropolitan Chicago CEO)–"My New Year's resolution is simply to STAY JOYFUL! We get so caught up in all the hard work and seriousness of life that I've decided no matter what I will find joy in everything I do! You enhance your creativity when you come from a place of

Erica Bethe Levin

joy! I plan on being highly creative this year so let the joy flow!"

Erica Bethe Levin (Co-founder CheekyChicago.com/ Bride-to-Be)–"My New Year’s resolution is to spend time on what really matters in life: family and friends and the little things that make me happy. To continue mentoring and empowering women to follow their dreams. And to maintain health and happiness."

Amy Guth (RedEye and Metromix GM, WGN radio host)—"I love NYE and the "clean slate" feeling it brings. This year, I kept it low key and called into WGN Radio to

Amy Guth

visit with the other hosts on-air and, of course, to offer up a special NYE #GuthGauntlet report or two– people watching is some of the best entertainment around! My resolution for 2015 is to raise awareness about the successes and challenges of women in the workplace."

Elda de la Rosa (Fashion designer extraordinaire/ RICORSO fashion illustrator/tailoring director)—"This last

Elda de la Rosa

year I have freelanced for my friend's design label (RICORSO) and was blessed to be offered a full time position as the fashion illustrator/tailoring director. It's a new design label and it consists of a design team of four creative individuals. I absolutely love my new job and working with other creatives. I plan on making 2015 my best year yet!"

Leslie Hindman (Founder Leslie Hindman Auctioneers)–"My 2015 resolution is to work hard and play harder!" (

Besties – Mary Lou Gorno with Leslie Hindman

Frankly, I don't know how much harder she could work!)

Mila Samokhina (Photographer/artist/gemologist)—"New Year's Eve night we spent with our parents in Tallinn, Estonia. It was the best gift we could give ourselves! My resolution for 2015 is simple: Always love everybody and everything I do; Live fully; Enjoy every

Mila Samokhina with daugher Elena and hubby Arthur

day; Laugh often; Give positive input in life and try to bring happiness and joy to all I do. And, of course, I'm looking forward to my daughter Elena's wedding in Nice, France this September! Could not be happier for her and Peter!"

Paul Iacono (President Chicago Dowel Company)— "This past New Year's Eve was pleasant. My great friend (and former babysitter I might add) Dede Lubeznik

Paul Iacono with Reute Butler

invited me to join her and several others for dinner at Hugo's. After dinner we all headed back to the beautiful home of Jay & Gale Gottlieb for dessert, champagne, and a competitive game of Charades. What a thoughtful hostess Gale is! Even though there were only 8 of us, she had fun NYE-themed gift

Cece Gonzalez and John

bags for each after the night was over. My NY Res: getting to bed earlier on week nights!!!"

Cece Gonzalez (Co-founder Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions)– "I went out for dinner to a Havana restaurant with my boyfriend John and some friends. We celebrated with dancing, salsa, merengue and bachata, latino way!!"

Melinda Joseph (Co-founder Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions)–"My boyfriend (Jay) took me to

Melinda Joseph and Jay

Las Vegas to see Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett at the Cosmopolitan where I also made a donation to the casino." Both she and Cece's New Year's resolutions involve "exercising more and spending more time with their families as well as growing Mac & Cheese Fest (which will return on 10/24/15) from

Gayle Anthony with hubby Jim

2K to 5K in 2015."

Gayle Anthony (Paris Ceramics USA, Sales Director)–"We've been in Palm Beach enjoying the warm temps and playing a lot of golf. We've been going from one thing to the next and haven't had a minute to write

Kathleen Casey

or think about resolutions, but what's most important to me in 2015 is spending more time with my family!"

Kathleen Casey (Founder Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation)–"I will continue to be an advocate for children battling childhood cancer. This disease remains the number ONE death by disease and these children need us to be their voices to get more funding to provide hope for a cure! I would also like to experience new things in the coming year be it through classes, travel

Co-chairs Courtney Pitt and Brian White with friend

or the many things our glorious city of Chicago has to offer! Wishing everyone a year filled with good health, happiness, love and laughter."

With a sell-out crowd, the English Speaking Union (ESU) hosted its fifth annual New Year's Eve Bash at the Casino Club. Billed as

Kim Gleason and Brian Kearnes

a "friend raiser", not a fundraiser, 220 black and white tie-clad guests enjoyed cocktails, a lavish dinner and dancing to the Ralph Wilder Orchestra. Guests were greeted by co-chairs Courtney Pitt and dashing Brian White. Gardenias were passed to each attendee as they arrived by models dressed in period costumes

Rodger and Janet Owen

appropriate for the party's English Regency theme. In the ballroom, elegant table decor consisted of tall pink, white and black feather centerpieces. The menu featured Lobster Thermidor followed by filet mignon with black truffle butter. Mango and raspberry mousse domes were served for dessert. Seen on the scene were Janet and

Danielle Rollins and John Fornego

Rodger Owen, Kim Gleeson and Brian Kearnes, Marci and David Gookin, Mary and Tom Bagley, Susan and Harlow Higinbotham, Anne and Steve Deli, Kathy and Dr. John Q. Cook, Jackie Thompson, Caroline and Heather Wright, Pauline and Neil Sheehan, Loren and Larry Ekstrom, Elyse and Walter Leavy and Vonita Reeser and Richard Miller. (The next big event for the ESU will be the Shakespeare Competition

Walter and Elyse Leavy

for local high school students that will be held at Roosevelt University on February 9. The group's major fundraiser is a black tie gala that will be held on Saturday, June 13. Mark your calendars now)! (Photos by Jennifer Girard)

Julz Goddard and Ne-Yo

Right about now, I'm having South Beach envy and wish we were having some sun n' fun on the Right Coast! Fortunately, we've made plans to stay at the Fontainebleau in February. This will bring back many happy memories spent there with my mom, Elsa Stott, before she passed. NYE was craaazzy at the Delano South Beach , another favorite SoBe spot. Here's their write-up: "We rang in 2015 in lavish style Wednesday evening at

Mario Chalmers and friend

our poolside oasis Delano Beach Club where Roc Nation artist J. Cole took to the stage to ring in the new year and graced the crowd with an epic midnight performance featuring his new album and classic hits "Work Out” and “Power Trip,” as host Yes Julz hyped the crowd. Taraji P. Henson was spotted with her posse of girls, snapping selfies in their

Julz Goddard, Victor Cruz and Kevin Ogletree

cabana. Cleveland Brown’s quarterback Johnny Manziel was also in attendance enjoying the performance with New York Giants star wide receiver Victor Cruz and teammate Kevin Ogletree. Following the

J. Cole performs

poolside soiree, the event headed downstairs to Delano’s subterranean lounge FDR where J. Cole hosted an eventful, sold-out after party. R&B star Ne-Yo made quite an entrance, walking in with a massive entourage and later was spotted in the

Darrell "Mr. Modelman" Fletcher, Lia Shahrebani, Nathaniel Florence and Rell Walker

crowd taking photos with revelers. Miami Heat players Mario Chalmers and Luol Deng were also in attendance to help kick off the New Year with a bang at Delano South Beach." Now THAT'S a party!

I'm still on a high after attending the blow-out bash celebrating the Auditorium

Co-chairs Phil Lumpkin, Helen Melchior, Auditorium Theatre ED Brett Batterson and Joan Colmar

Theatre of Roosevelt University's 125th anniversary! The magical evening consisted of a star-studded performance at the Theatre that welcomed more than 2,000 patrons and a Gala dinner at the Palmer House. The evening began at the Theatre with a 90 minute tribute that included Broadway legend Patti Lupone. When she belted out "Don't Cry for Me Argentina", she had

Ken Norgan, Tara Klecka and Michael Kutza

the crowd in the palm of her hand. (Her great grand aunt Adelina Patti appeared onstage 125 years ago for the grand opening!) The tribute was hosted by Chicago actor John Mahoney. Dancers from Alvin

Brian Johnson, Joan Colmar and Ashley Wheater

Ailey American Dance Theater (Vernard Gilmore) and the Joffrey Ballet (Rory Hohenstein and Christine Rocas), singers from the Lyric Opera of Chicago (Jonathan Johnson and Hlengiwe Mkhwanazi) and The Apollo Chorus, musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass and an "All-star Chicago Rock Band" featuring local rock icon Jim Peterik, Paul Wertico, Barbara Unger-Wertico and Richard Patterson all

Ji Suk Yi and Morris Gearring

graced the stage paying tribute to the diverse entertainment that has been, and continues to be presented at the Auditorium Theatre. Besides Lupone's performance, highlights of the performance included the Joffrey Ballet’s Christine Rocas and Rory Hohenstein performing a pas de deux from “Romeo and Juliet” and Alvin Ailey’s Vernard Gilmore in an excerpt of Ailey’s

1960 masterpiece, “Revelations.” The performance concluded with a rare treat: the gilded panels on

Co-chairs Phil Lumpkin, Helen Melchior, Auditorium Theatre Executive Director Brett Batterson and co-chair Joan Colmar.

both sides of the Auditorium stage were lifted to reveal the full grandeur of the proscenium, allowing the audience a unique glimpse at the architectural mastery of the theatre’s designers and creators, Dankmar Adler and

Reginaldo and Jennifer Montague and Roderick Hawkins

Louis Sullivan. Following the performance, the Auditorium welcomed 600 guests to a post-performance reception at the Palmer House Hilton Hotel hosted by co-chairs Helen Melchior, Phil Lumpkin, and Joan Colmar. I especially loved the "greeters", students from the Theatre

Servers with champagne line the entry to the Auditorium Theatre

Conservatory of the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, who welcomed guests in period costumes as they arrived. The table decor in the Grand Ballroom kept to the 19th century theme, too, with crystal candle holders resembling old fashioned oil lamps. The theatre raised more than $500,000 to support the

Elizabeth Queen and Kyle DeSantis

initiatives of the Auditorium Theatre. The evening concluded with yet another surprise: Auditorium Theatre Executive Director Brett Batterson invited a combination of friends, staff, donors and artists of the theatre for a communal hymn of Auld Lang Syne, an auspicious song of luck and good fortune heading into the future. Here's to 125 more! (Photos by Bob Carl and Dan Rest)

I don't know about you, but I'm a huge fan of Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Walhlberg! And I loved the premier of their new show last night, "Donnie Loves Jenny", that premiered on A

Interviewing Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg (Photo by Matthew Reeves)

& E. Both McCarthy and Wahlberg executively produce the show and they have even started up a production company, D&J Productions, in order to do so. Donnie Loves Jenny‘s first episode was an hour long and documented their

With Donnie and Jenny–so in love! (Pic by Matthew Reeves)

lavish wedding. The remainder of the season will be 30-minute shows that will follow the Wahlbergers, an A & E reality show focusing on the Wahlberg brothers' Boston restaurants. Check out this cute snippet here and watch my first Watch312 interview below with the lovebirds to see how it all began!

http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1

Kathy "Butch" Jerinic with Leatrice Berman Sandler and Jill Renn

Bailiwick Chicago’s annual Chicago Casting Auction raised more than $50,000 for the company, earning the top bidders starring roles in Bailiwick Chicago’s upcoming production of Wonderful Town! More than 35 roles were auctioned off during the event at this year’s new venue, Michelle’s Ballroom, 2800 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago. Contenders for leading and major

Executive Director Kate Garassino, Dr. Amy Robbins and Artistic Director Lili-Anne Brown

supporting roles took the stage during a nail-biting live auction, often egged on by the crowd to show off their vocal talents. Additional supporting and chorus roles were won via silent auction. The evening also included musical performances by Bailiwick Chicago ensemble members, signature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and enticing silent auction prizes. Following eight weeks of rehearsal, the winning

Jill Renn and Kyle Pollio

bidders will star in a public production of the musical classic Wonderful Town directed by Company Member Varris Holmes with music direction by Kyle Pollio and choreography by Company Member Jon Martinez. (The production will be presented February 23 – 28, at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago. Tickets go on sale Thursday, January 15,

Company members Danny Bernardo and Danni Smith

at castingauction.com). The “winning” cast of Wonderful Town will include: Jill Renn as Ruth Sherwood, Leatrice Berman Sandler as Eileen Sherwood, Andy Lambros as Robert Baker, Barry O’Driscoll as Wreck Loomis, Laura Ladewski as Helen Wade, Herb Quinde as Mr. Appopolous, Rusty Rector as Chick Clark, Joshua Steinfels-Saenz as Frank Lippencott

Kyle and Becky Hendricks

and Amy Robbins as Tour Guide. Supporting roles include Michelle Bibergal, Larry Blust, Stuart Burstein, Carol Christensen, Jenny Davis, John Dreixler, Denise Doherty, Jenna Dreixler, Paula Goedert, Bliss McMahon, Cris Piper, Linda Quinde, Myles Tobin and Peg

Executive Director Kate Garassino, Board president Nancy Studenroth, Board VP Stuart Burstein and Artistic Director Lili-Anne Brown

Wander plus students from Franklin Fine Arts Center, British School of Chicago and other CPS schools. With music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Betty

Company members Chris Kristant and Casi Maggio

Comden and Adolph Green and book by Joseph A. Fields and Jerome Chodorov, Wonderful Town debuted on Broadway in 1953, winning five Tony Awards including Best Musical with a Tony-nominated revival in 2003. Wonderful Town tells the story of two sisters from Ohio who come to New

Company member Sam Dubina, Jenn Jones and Company member Heather Stuck

York to make their fortunes: Ruth, the older, wisecracking one in writing and journalism, and Eileen, the younger, beautiful one in show business. Their subsequent adventures, which include dive apartment-dwelling on Christopher Street, involve the various wacky denizens and citizens of bohemian

Eric Martin, Jon Martinez, Lili-Anne Brown, Kate Garassino and Geoff Bleeker

Greenwich Village they encounter while on their search for fortune, fame and romance in the big city. Last year’s Chicago Casting Auction, which culminated in a sold-out public run of The Drowsy Chaperone, raised nearly $70,000 to support Bailiwick Chicago programming.

Eric Eatherly–RIP

On a very sad note–Beloved performing arts publicist, Eric Eatherly, passed away in an auto accident while visiting his family in Tennessee during the holidays. He was the vice-president of the Silverman Group and the principal publicist for the Joffrey Ballet. A celebration of his life will be held at the Joffrey Tower on Sunday, January 17, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Friends can make a donation in his name to the Joffrey Ballet. He was

Jimmy Greenfield

one of the kindest people I've ever met and he will be sorely missed. RIP dear Eric.

Have you ever thought about becoming a blogger, but don't have a clue how to go about it? Well, learn from the best–Chicago Now Community Manager Jimmy Greenfield, who is offering a Blue Sky Innovation presentation on March 10 at Tribune Tower. His classes usually sellout so, if interested, book here now!

Amy Guth

Congrats to Amy Guth, RedEye/Metromix GM and WGN radio host! Her show, RedEye Remix (produced by Katie Gibson) on WGN radio 720, has added

Michael Keaton with his CIFF Hugo

a third hour, now airing from 11 p.m. on Saturdays until 2 am Sundays. Woot! Woot!

The Chicago International Film Festival is the first to recognize actor Michael Keaton's skills for his electrifying performance in "Birdman." He was awarded the Founder's Hugo for his portrayal of an actor trying to revive his career! #SoDeserving

Chicago Cut

Congrats are in order for Chicago Cut Steakhouse that was recently named "Most Popular Celeb Hangout" by the Chicago Tribune (Luis Gomez). Love this hotspot and the love and care co-owners David Flom and Matt Moore give to all who

Chicago Cut's David Flom with Charles Barkley

enter! Can't wait to return!

Thanks to WCIU's "You & Me This Morning" for having me back to co-host in December! I love hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow! They are so

Having fun at WCIU with Executive Producer Rob Morhaim, hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow and Floor Manager Nika Clark

much fun to work with and so patient! LOL! Waking up to this show starts your day off positive and joyful! Don't miss it Monday thru Friday from 6-9 am.

That's it for this edition. I hope you've enjoyed reading it as much as I love writing it. 2015 will be an exciting year for all of us and I hope we can all take the ride together!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Caffeinated Club whose awesome beverage roll-out continues across the country! Congrats to their newest L.A. Brand Ambassadors Aubree and Brett Connors! (And Happy 30th Aubree!)

Aubree Connor's 30th with brother Brett and mom and dad–Patti and Jimmy

Lonnie Rodriguez, Aubree Connors, Rocky Mosele and Brett Connors

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November 4, 2013 · 12:42 pm

WINDY CITY CHIC: CHICAGO’S FASHION WEEK!

…PLUS JHIRMACK’S SILVER SISTERS; FRYE’S 150TH; ABOUT FACE THEATRE'S SUPPER CLUB GALA; LINDA AND DESIREE’S PUMP ROOM BASH; BETRAYAL’S CAST PARTY; ART INSTITUTE’S SNAP GALA; RADIO HALL OF FAME; F.A.M.E.; BEST BUDDIES; HALLOWEEN IN CHICAGO; FELIX MAG; AMIE’S BARBIE BASH; BEAUTIFUL BIRTHDAYS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Chicago is pulling ahead of the competition for the most fashionable city! One of the hottest events in town, Fashion Focus: Chicago’s Fashion Week (October 15th through 20th) was a citywide celebration of Chicago’s fashion industry
presented in conjunction with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Mayor’s office. Highlights during the week included a variety of runway shows in
Millennium Park showcasing the latest trends in menswear, emerging and established designers, shopping events and much more. “Fashion Focus is a great way to showcase our great city as well as highlight the achievements of talented, up-and-coming local designers,” said Mayor Emanuel. “I’m proud that Chicago is home to this
flourishing creative industry and look forward to continuing to cultivate its growth.” DCASE Commissioner Michelle T. Boone said, “This year, Fashion Focus highlighted fashion within the creative industries, emerging designers and menswear while still spotlighting Chicago’s top talent. The city has a vibrant fashion community that we want to share with the rest of world
and perhaps further enhance its status within the industry.” I say amen to that! The week kicked off on October 15th with Designer and Muse. Hosted by the City of Chicago and Michigan Avenue Magazine, the opening event partnered with local celebrities in the creative industries (music, culinary, film, theater and dance) with a
designer who created a look for his or her “muse” that was showcased throughout the evening. Pairings included Maria Pinto and Jeanne Gang (architecture), Azeeza Kahn and Alpana Singh (culinary), Shernett Swaby and Mindy Segal (culinary), and Diego Rocha and Naomi Beckwith (visual arts) among others. (The event was by invitation-only.) The following afternoon, designer Julius LaCour featured his
designs for women and men at Maison De LaCour Fashion Presentation. Luxury Management produced this event in the Chase Promenade North tent at Millennium Park that was free to the public. On October 16th, Fashion Focus: Taking it to the Streets could best be described by a quote from fashion icon Coco Chanel, when she
famously said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” This fashion extravaganza welcomed international designers Sarah Stevenson from Toronto Fashion Incubator and Christine Phung from the Atelier de Paris, an incubator program in the City of Light. Chicago
designers included Lagi Nadeau, Shelby Steiner Agnes Hamerlik, Randall Hill, Laura Takataka, Nicole Puszynski, J. Toor and Chicago Playground. On October 17th, the Urban Shapeshifters debuted in Chicago, focusing on menswear and featured local, national and international menswear designers J. Cheikh, Michelle Tan and Jack Cave
from Chicago, Brandon Scott from Los Angeles and Rana Rojo from Miami. In partnership with Chicago’s Gallery Aesthete, international designers participating included Boris Bidjan Saberi
from Barcelona, Ann Demeulemeester from Antwerp and Comme de Garcons from Tokyo and Paris. The Art of Fashion Runway Show returned for its sixth season presented by StyleChicago.com. This popular show featured 10 spring 2014 looks from 10 Chicago-based designers who included
Maria Pinto, Calvin Tran, Eva Pazola, Boris Powell, Lily & Migs, Michelle Tan, Mark Roscoe, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Shalini Sharma and Shernett Swaby. On October 19th, designers, industry professionals and fashion entrepreneurs were invited to network and share ideas during Industry Day at the Chicago Cultural Center. The day featured keynote speakers, panel discussions and workshops that
advised attendees about the newest business strategies and trends in the fashion industry. Northern Grade, a new pop-up market in Millennium Park, brought menswear to the Chase Promenade South tent on the weekend of October 19th and 20th. (Northern
Grade is a mobile menswear market featuring vendors of products manufactured in the United States; items for sale include clothing, footwear, gear, games, paper goods, grooming supplies and much more.) During this weekend, Fashion Focus 2013 presented FashionChicago, the StyleChicago.com designer shopping event in Millennium Park. This shopping
extravaganza featured more than 30 of Chicago’s best apparel, jewelry and accessory designers and included AndreaGems, Anna Hovet, Archer Townsend, Atir Design, Barbara Keisman, Bourdage Pearls, Buckle Up Babe,
Brynn Capella, Calvin Tran, House of Gemmes, Jennifer Reeves Designs, Jules, K. Amato, Lil & Migs, Michelle Tan, Nade Baer, Nomadic Ant, Jewelry, Nora del Busto, Sevigne Atelier, She Beads, Shruti Kirti, Squasht by Les, Susan Elizabeth
Designs, Tongue Tied and 4 Tamara Nicole. Home to more than 400 local designers and 300 independent boutiques, Chicago boasts one of the most creative fashion communities in the country. Since 2006, the City of Chicago’s Fashion Initiative partners with the industry on resources and high-profile events for local designers and independent boutiques to gain visibility, learn about the business of fashion and elevate the industry. For more information on the City of Chicago’s Fashion Initiative and Fashion Focus: Chicago’s Fashion Week, visit www.fashionfocuschicago.org. Love our fashion forward city!

There is a movement afoot and it’s not a political one, though it inspires passion in those involved. As we baby boomers age, there is a dilemma among many women (and men) who are
afraid to embrace the natural aging process: The subject is whether or not to dye your hair. Author Diana Jewell wrote an interesting book on this topic titled, “Going Gray and Looking Great” and she also inspired
women from across the globe to come together as Jhirmack Silver Sisters to celebrate their commonality: keeping, enjoying and embracing their natural (silver) hair color. Chapters have formed
across the country – there are even some that reach as far away as New Zealand and Chile! – so obviously she’s on to something. I was thrilled when she came to Chicago for the first time to celebrate with like-minded women here. The two-day weekend began with a reception at Cite, a restaurant located 70 stories atop Lake Point
Tower. Overlooking breathtaking views of Chicago, the women snapped pics, shared secrets and enjoyed the camaraderie that comes naturally to this group of women who are aging gracefully, fearlessly and
beautifully. The following day began with a luncheon at the Marriott Courtyard Michigan Avenue. Glam L.A. stylist Arden Reece produced a seriously chic fashion show with day and evening looks from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue that wowed the crowd.
Makeup artist extraordinaire Marcus Geeter shared cosmetics tips that included 1) Use a pore minimizer before applying makeup (he liked The POREfessional by Benefit Cosmetics); 2) Use finely milled HD powders
(he likes one from ITCosmetics.com); 3) Use neutral or earth-tone eye shadows; 4) Use black mascara, a brush-on brow (and a gel fiber brow adds fullness); and 5) Use a highlighter on your cheeks, center of
forehead and chin (he likes Watt’s Up by Benefit Cosmetics). He also recommended Candid Candace coral lipstick by Camp Cosmetics…wink! 🙂 “The Sultan of Silver” George Bruno followed with chic hair demos showing the versatility of gray hair. I was proud to deliver the keynote speech. (Special thanks to Donna
LaPietra for my cool video, too)! A packed goody bag included awesome Jhirmack products (the event’s presenting sponsor) created especially for Silver Sisters!
(Thanks so much, Peter LaFleche!!!) After the festivities at the Marriott, we all boarded trolleys to Millennium Park where we performed the famous “Silver Sister Strut” while the television cameras rolled and photographers snapped. I’m proud to be a Silver Sister and can’t wait till they return to the Windy City! (Great pics by Amie Hana). (For more info about the Silver Sisters, visit their Facebook page here!)

Do you remember Frye boots? Back in the ‘70s, if you didn’t have a pair of these boots, you had no “cool.” Well, recently, The Frye Company – America’s oldest operating footwear
company – celebrated its 150th (WOW!) anniversary with a private party to celebrate the opening of its new Chicago location. The store featured a wide range of footwear and accessories, including the company’s anniversary capsule collection
of classic styles with details like stars and stripes and stone-washed finishes. The brand’s creative director Michael Petry was in attendance to mix and mingle with more than 300 fans. Guests sporting their Frye footwear included Amelia Eaton, Christopher Free, Jessica Moazami and Cait Weingartner. The playlist for the evening was provided by
DJ Matt Roan and also featured a live set by up-and-coming band Blondfire, all decked in Frye footwear. Their history and heritage is told in every stitch of every shoe they’ve made over the last 150 years, across cultural shifts and changes in
fashion for generation upon generation. On March 10, 1863, John A. Frye opened the doors of a small shop on Elm Street in Marlboro, Mass. This is where generations of Frye men would dedicate themselves to the art and craft of shoemaking, creating new patterns, discovering new materials and even inventing shoe-making
machinery. Now, Frye boots are accessorized and envied on city streets, worked and roughed up on country roads and chosen above all others for their inimitable style and uncompromising quality. I’m still a fan!

More than 100 guests traveled back to the exclusive underground society of the “Roaring Twenties” for About Face Theatre’s Black and Tan Supper Club on October 11th at the luxurious Stan Mansion, located at 2408 N.
Kedzie Ave. The “secret venue” was revealed to guests just one week prior to the event, creating a magical and mysterious throwback to Chicago’s “black and tan” nightclubs of the 1920’s. The swanky
supper club soiree raised nearly $40,000 for About Face Theatre programming, including its groundbreaking and acclaimed Youth Theatre, which creates a safe space for LGBTQA youth to tell their stories and create community. Guests
decked out in formal and festive attire sipped classic cocktails and enjoyed fine dining by J&L Catering. The evening’s hosts, AFT artistic associate Paul Oakley Stovall and New York performer Brad Simmons, entertained with 1920s jazz
standards including “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore”, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” and “Pennies From Heaven”. The duo were joined by special guest performers Meghan Murphy and fellow AFT artistic associates Scott
Bradley, John Francisco and Benjamin Sprunger; the Black and Tan Supper Club was co-chaired by Jim Andrews and Jason Held. About Face Theatre is one of Chicago’s most acclaimed theatre companies and is a national leader in the
development of new work exploring gender and sexual identity. Since its founding by Kyle Hall and Eric Rosen in 1995, the company has debuted more than 48 world premieres by writers and directors who have been recognized with several
Tony Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, The MacArthur Fellowship and dozens of Joseph Jefferson Awards. The About Face Youth Theatre (AFYT) was created in 1998 as a safe
space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning and allied young people to become activists and theatre-makers. Youth participants engage in a two-year
process of sharing stories, conducting interviews, writing a script and developing performances to create a full-length production that is produced in About Face Theatre’s mainstage season. (Photos by Timmy Samuel.)

Linda and Desiree threw a party and EVERYONE came! On October 30th, the Pump Room Chicago was filled to bursting with excited chatter and fashionable ladies for an exclusive women’s only event to
celebrate “Life, Love & Beauty”. The party was hosted by Linda Johnson Rice (chairman of Johnson Publishing), Desiree Rogers (CEO of Johnson Publishing), Mitzi Miller (editor-in-chief of Jet Magazine) and Fashion Fair Cosmetics. The evening also premiered a short film, “Say Yes” by Sundance Award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, which
celebrates women of color and encourages them to embrace their individual beauty and embrace what it means to “say yes” to life’s possibilities. Inspired by Fashion Fair, the film is described as “highlighting beautiful women of all hues
and ages who explore the power of the affirmative.” I invited my dear friend Paul Iacono, who is one good sport: I didn’t realize it was women-only until we arrived! LOL but luckily, I convinced him to stay and
he turned out to be a highlight for a lot of the ladies as they snapped pics with him throughout the evening. During the cocktail party, guests had the opportunity to sample Fashion Fair products, receive personal makeovers
by talented make-up artists, listen to music by glam celebrity DJ Kiss and mix and mingle with some of the most beautiful, diverse and accomplished women of Chicago. Special guests included actress Drew Sidora, actress/singer/songwriter Michelle Williams and ever popular female
impersonator Chilli Pepper. During the course of the evening, a dramatic tribute sculptural portrait, commissioned by fashion designer Barbara Bates, was presented to Linda. Created by artist Debra Hand, the piece represented Mrs. Eunice Johnson on her historic journey to change fashion history. Debra explained that Mrs. Johnson took Linda along with her on buying trips to Europe when she visited the top designers’
showrooms. The Eiffel Tower in the piece represents those trips and Mrs. Johnson’s influence on the international fashion industry. In the artwork, a young Linda stands atop a hat box marked with the initials “FF” which
represents the Fashion Fair legacy Mrs. Johnson built and the foundation upon which Linda now stands as she continues the work started by her mother. Photos include Mrs. Johnson sitting in the front row of a European fashion show, working with models, speaking with designers such as Yves St. Laurent, Fashion Fair
Cosmetics, and Linda with her mother and quotes from both. There are also international postage stamps denoting her travels as well as one that bears the photo of Linda’s father, John H. Johnson. The title of the piece is “Family Recipes” and it was AWE-INSPIRING! It was a very touching moment when it was unveiled for Linda. When Paul and I left, the place
was still jumping and I saw lots of ladies doing the “wobble” to a hot DJ Kiss mix. (I wish I could learn this darn dance…it looked so cool!) Anyway, congrats Linda on an amazing life…can’t wait to see where you take us next! (For Jet Magazine info, click here and for Fashion Fair product info, click here!)

All the stars aligned at the Dana Hotel in River North recently for a cast party for “Betrayal”, the hot new series that recently debuted on ABC-7. Guests joined
hosts from “Windy City Live” to mix and mingle with cast members who included James Cromwell, Henry Thomas, Stuart Townsend and Hannah Ware. Set and filmed in Chicago and billed as part thriller/part romance, the series centers around photographer
Sara Hanley (played by Hannah Ware) who is married to prosecutor Drew Stafford (played by Chris J. Johnson). A chance meeting between Hannah and Jack McAllister
(played by Stuart Townsend) leads to an instant attraction that becomes complicated and dangerous. The show also features Wendy Moniz, Elizabeth McLaughlin and Braeden Lemasters. (To see ALL of the fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please visit my Chicago Now blog here!)

The Art Institute of Chicago’s Department of Photography hosted Snap: The 5th Photography Benefit Gala on October 19th in the museum’s Modern Wing. This year’s event celebrated the museum’s encyclopedic
permanent collection of photography with proceeds contributing to the Photography Gala Fund, the largest single source of acquisitions support for photography at the Art
Institute. This fund has helped make possible landmark purchases of work by André Kertész, Richard Misrach, Daido Moriyama and Ed Ruscha, among others. The event was
co-chaired by Meredith Bluhm Wolf and Dia S. Weil. The gala began in the Art Institute’s fine-dining restaurant Terzo Piano with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a stunning nighttime view of Chicago’s skyline. Popular at previous Snap galas, guests once again had the opportunity to get their photo snapped in classic photo booths and
sets depicting famous images. A seated dinner of locally grown, seasonal fare followed in the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court with an innovative setting designed by INDO, a Chicago-based design and fabrications firm
specializing in site-specific installations created with recycled and repurposed materials. Following dinner, a live auction of photography sessions by internationally renowned photographers including Moyra Davey, Abelardo
Morell, Jason Salavon, Tony Tasset and James Welling was conducted by Alexander Gilkes of Phillips. The photography collection began in 1949 with the gift of nearly 250 photographs by Alfred Stieglitz and his circle. The Stieglitz Collection, along with the Julien Levy Collection of surrealist and
avant-garde works, gave the museum core strength in early 20th-century photography from the United States and Europe. With approximately 22,000 objects, the present collection is encyclopedic in scope. (To learn more, click here.)

For more than 90 years, radio has educated, entertained and inspired us. To honor this important medium, the Museum of Broadcast Communications is hosting the 2013 National Radio Hall Fame Gala on November 9th at the
museum (located at 360 N. State St.) beginning at 6 p.m. Hosted by broadcast icon Larry King with entertainment by country star Reba McIntire, the 2013 class of inductees range from a dynamic and trend setting team that changed Chicago’s radio landscape to
one of the most respected play-by-play voices in baseball. Radio’s daring duo Steve Dahl and Garry Meier have been honored with an award but the jury is still out whether or not Dahl will attend. Charley Steiner, a current member of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ play-by-play team, is also an honoree. For tickets ($350 and up), call 312.245.8200.

Embrace your incomparable, unique style sense and join event producer/photographer Amie Hana and restaurateur Vincent Tan for “Barbie
in Chicago” on November 9th at Block 37 for an unforgettable evening of fun, great food, cocktails, fashion show, live entertainment and more! Emcees are Jillian Conley (author of “Dating Chase Walker”) and Jeff Conway (former producer for NBC5’s “24/7 Chicago”). There will be musical performances by De’Borah from
“The Voice” and international performing artist Divalicious Jovie Calma. The Benjamin Cottrell-produced fashion show will feature designs by Eileen Fisher, Borris Powell and Mark Roscoe Designs. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dress For Success, which provides clothing for job interviews to low-income women. For tickets and more info, click here.

Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.) will present its second fashion show – An Evening of Glamour – on November 20th beginning at 7 p.m. at Studio 3G, located at 1017 W. Washington. Guests will enjoy a champagne reception with hors d’oeuvres and Lily’s Talent Agency models. Hosted by B96’s Showbiz Shelly, the event will feature evening wear by Anna Fong, Lauren Lein, Nathalie Loma and Victor Miller. Proceeds will benefit young Chicagoland performing artists with financial aid and mentorship. For tickets and more info, click here or contact tommy@famechicago.com.

The Best Buddies Illinois Gala will take place on November 22nd at the Four Seasons Hotel. My friend Simona Garcia described the good work that they do: “I joined the Best Buddies board earlier this year and have been impressed with everything they do in terms of creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships and offering integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It was founded in
1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver. In our state, Best Buddies serves about 6,000 students in 84 middle schools, high schools and colleges and the adult programs serve about 500 individuals annually.” Great cause Simona and I hope everyone will join you at the gala! For more info, visit www.bestbuddiesillinois.org.

HUGE congrats are in order for Tails in the City on its largest Halloween Pet Parade to date! This year, more than 250 dogs participated in this furry fun that also raised money for PAWS Chicago! Congrats to Bruce Haas and Philip Emigh on another great event – can’t wait to see what you have in store for next year!

And speaking of this spooky holiday, Boystown’s legendary Halloween Parade on North Halsted went under the big top this year for a twisted take on
the circus theme. Now in its 17th year, this beloved annual event kicked off at 8 p.m. on Halloween with spectators and costumed revelers lining North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison. The parade route was filled
with circus sideshows ranging from acrobats to aerialists and fire-eaters to freaks. New this year was the crowning of costume contest winners before the parade start. Winners in each of the five categories (drag, group, original, scariest and pet) were then invited to ride a float through the parade route. They also
received prize packages valued at more than $2,000 that included gift certificates to local businesses and overnight getaways. The Halsted Halloween Parade is
sponsored by the Northalsted Business Alliance and draws thousands of participants and spectators to the Lakeview neighborhood. (Thanks to Bill Pritchard of ChicagoPride.com for this info with photos by Anthony Meade. This website is THE go-to-place for all LGTB news and events! To see more of these creative costumes, click here!)

Special thanks to Felix Magazine and Jessica George for choosing me for a Style Icon feature! I’m thrilled and grateful! I shot at the historic Glessner House Museum with talented L.A. lensman Isaac Alvarez, who’s as funny as he is cool.

Birthday shout-outs to dear friends Marissa Rudman, Michaela Parrillo and Jan Flanagan! Marissa celebrated her big 5-0 in grand style at Studio Paris and Michaela and Jan partied the night
away with friends at Tavern on Rush. Three elegant women who are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside…happy birthday to ALL!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition! Please send any news my way and I’ll try to add it next time. Also, if you would like to advertise on Candid Candace or Watch312.com, please let me know! 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Want a perfect pet portrait or, for that matter, a personal one? Well, look no further than photographer Paul Sherman! This wonderful artist has been in the business for years and is TERRIFIC! I’ve shot with him many times (he did my last cover for TCW Mag!) and I highly recommend him. For more info, call (773) 886-9501. Here’s lookin’ at you, kid!

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October 23, 2013 · 10:13 am

THE CHICAGO HUMANITIES FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

…PLUS JOFFREY’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS; COSTUME COUNCIL’S DECADES LUNCHEON; JACK AND THE GREEN COAT GALA; A NEW ONLINE ART RESOURCE; PAUL STUART'S RAT PACK; PATRICK SHARP SUITS UP FOR ZEGNA; JANE MONZURES’ LIVE.LOVE.LIFE; JUBALEE!; URBAN LEAGUE’S FELLOWSHIP DINNER; SUSAN G. KOMEN PAINTS IT PINK; DIFFA’S DINING BY DESIGN AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Chicago Humanities Festival (CHF) held its annual Gala Benefit on October 2nd at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago with more than 350 of Chicago’s civic, corporate and cultural leaders in attendance. In keeping with the theme “ANIMAL: What Makes Us Human”, the ballroom was transformed into an animal-
embellished sanctuary. Tables featured animal print runners and floral arrangements adorned with peacock and pheasant feathers, all created by Flower Firm. Attendees enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner provided by the Four Seasons, which
included a dessert sampling with edible chocolate tigers and giraffes in homage to the theme. After dinner, the Chicago Humanities Festival recognized Robert R. McCormick Foundation for its strong commitment to the humanities and its long-standing partnership
with CHF. Current CHF Board Chair Bill Fraumann presented the honor to President and Chief Executive Officer David D. Hiller. “We were delighted to be part of that very special evening,” said David D. Hiller. “We have had a long and fruitful partnership, supporting educational efforts and
celebrating those things that, in the words of this year’s festival, make us human and humane.” Following the first award presentation, CHF saluted three key academic partners: Northwestern University, the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois, who
were honored as vital partners in CHF’s mission to bring renowned pioneers and thinkers in literature, history, science, politics, art, and music to the festival. Audience members enjoyed a video that featured interviews from key leaders at each of the universities, as well as CHF
Executive Director Phillip Bahar and Artistic Director Matti Bunzl, and highlighted the respective campuses. President Morton Schapiro (Northwestern University), President Robert J. Zimmer (University of Chicago) and President Robert A. Easter (University
of Illinois) received the award from Bill Fraumann on behalf of their respective universities. “To have the three university presidents together at one time with David Hiller from the McCormick Foundation marked an extraordinary moment in the Chicago Humanities Festival’s 24 year history,” said CHF Artistic Director Matti Bunzl. “We were honored to have the
opportunity to give our collective thanks to these longstanding partners.” Attendees were then treated to a video about Stages, Sights and Sounds, which documented the annual international theater festival for students, families, and theatergoers of any age. The video featured interviews with artists, cultural leaders and students who attended performances
this past May. Following the video, three teachers from Schubert Elementary spoke about their personal experience with the Stages, Sights and Sounds program and the positive impact it has had on their students. “It has been said that education is not about filling a pail, it’s about lighting the fire,” said Juana Miranda, a third grade bilingual
teacher from Schubert. “Thank you for providing my students with the opportunity to experience the arts, and for striking the match. Closing out the night, CHF Gala Benefit co-chair Allegra Biery introduced the singers from
the Ryan Opera Center, who performed several musical theater and operatic songs under the direction of Andreas Mitisek, General Director of Chicago Opera Theater. The Gala Benefit was co-chaired by Allegra Biery (senior vice president of Northern Trust) and R. Scott Falk (partner at Kirkland & Ellis). The evening raised more than $640,000 to advance CHF’s mission to create opportunities for
people of all ages to support, enjoy and explore the humanities. Specifically, more than $120,000 was raised during the paddle raise, lead by CHF board member Cheryl Harris and auctioneer extraordinaire Greg Dellinger, which will support CHF’s First Time for a Lifetime (TM) education and outreach initiatives, which enhance student attendance, teacher development and education resources. The Chicago Humanities Festival began in 1989 as a
dream shared by a determined group of Chicago’s cultural leaders eager to extend the riches of the humanities to everyone. Since that first year, some of the world’s most exciting thinkers, artists and performers have come to Chicago each fall for a festival that celebrates ideas in the context of civic life. (For more info, click here.)

The Joffrey Ballet’s 8th Annual Couture & Cocktails was held recently at Park West with nearly 300 enthusiastic supporters. Co-chaired by Sonya Jackson and Kathleen Henson, this glamorous fall
fashion event featured a coalition of couture and dance with a dramatic runway show that presented designer selections from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, the 40-minute show featured more than 40 looks with mini-performances interspersed by Joffrey Academy of Dance students.
For the first time in the event’s history, the breathtaking fashions were presented through sophisticated dance interpretations of the 2013 season including the hit La Bayadere (now at the Auditorium Theatre thru 10/27), Episode 31, Romeo
and Juliet, Russian Masters and The Nutcracker. The dancers sparkled on the runway wearing dramatic costumes from these productions and Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels surprised and wowed the crowd with his
own runway walk wearing a Tom Ford tuxedo for the finale. Prior to the show, new executive director Greg Cameron and artistic director Ashley Wheater joined Jackson and Henson onstage to share heartfelt
remarks about the mission of the Joffrey and its work throughout the country. And, with a nod to televised fashion events and awards shows, glam co-hosts Sonya and Kathleen were spotted throughout the evening in three wardrobe changes modeling various designers
from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Neiman’s Wendy Krimins and Tina Koegel were in attendance and very thrilled with the night’s action! Former C & C featured designer Pamella Roland added couture power flying in several evening gowns for the event. A digital live
auction that included couture and cocktail themed packages rounded out the evening before guests took to the dance floor with the Joffrey dancers. The event raised nearly $200K to advance the mission and support Joffrey programming in Chicago and beyond. For more info on the Joffrey and performance schedules, visit www.Joffrey.org. (To view ALL pics, please click here!)

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted a group of 35 members and their guests at the Four Seasons Chicago on October 11th for a luncheon and presentation by vintage guru Cameron Silver and author
of the recently released fashion history book “Decades: A Century of Fashion”. After their meal, guests enjoyed an exclusive preview of the Decades Trunk Show at space519. Decades is the
vintage and haute consignment retailer in Los Angeles, acclaimed for its collection of designer clothing and accessories dating from the 1920’s to today. Known for their discerning eye, co-owners Silver and Christos Garkinos and their teams oversee the acquisition of an edited selection of authentic vintage treasures and future
collectibles. Their clientele in Los Angeles includes celebrities such as Julianne Moore, Selma Blair and Charlize Theron (among many others) who not only shop their collections but also sell to the store. Proceeds from the event benefitted the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. (Photos by Robert Kusel.)

The world’s greatest golf champion Jack Nicklaus will headline the Western Golf Association’s third annual Green Coat Gala to benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation on November 6th at The Peninsula
Chicago, located at 108 E. Superior St. The winner of 18 major championships, two Western Open titles and the Western Amateur Championship, Nicklaus will take the stage after dinner and chat with longtime friend, two-time U.S. Open
champion and ESPN lead golf analyst Andy North. This black-tie event is expected to raise more than $600,000 to help fund college scholarships for deserving golf caddies. Volunteer event chairs are Sharyl and Mike Mackey. The evening also will feature current University of Illinois Evans Scholar Mark Abtahi, who will share his personal experience of how the Evans
Scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity for young golf caddies. The Evans Scholars Program is one of golf’s favorite charities and is country’s largest privately sponsored scholarship program providing full tuition and housing. For more information, visit www.wgaesf.org.

“Art is a reflection of personality and therefore it should be the center of attention in any room,” said designer and art curator Irena Feldman, who recently launched a unique online service that is designed to make art more accessible. DecArte is an online art database that allows people the option to rent artwork before buying.
With years of experience in the interior design world, Irina felt like this was a natural progression for her business. “The rental option allows people to start their art journey without risk, all the while from the comfort of their own home,” said Feldman. She even offers an art personality quiz to help you find the piece that's right for you from a worldwide selection of artists. Fear no art and click here for more info!

More than 150 guests recently celebrated the Rat Pack in conjunction with luxury men’s clothier Paul Stuart and Esquire magazine. The event commemorated a special in-store exhibit from Reel Art Press, honoring the
legendary clique that defined life in the fast lane throughout the late fifties and early sixties. The Gold Coast location showcased an exhibit of original, limited-edition, signed images created by a select group of photogs including Sid Avery
and Bob Willoughby who captured the Rat Pack in their heyday. In conjunction with the event, Paul Stuart is also offering the collectable photographic book titled “The Rat Pack” (referred to by the L.A. Times as ‘the
Rolls Royce of Sinatra memorabilia’). This deluxe master edition is a limited, numbered edition of 2,250 published by Reel Art Press retails for $950. Guests
enjoyed signature Rat Pack-era drinks such as Manhattans, martinis and Prosecco, as well as a selection of hors d’oeuvres that included New York strip medallions topped with artichoke and black truffle mouse, lobster thermidor,
and (of course!) mini cherry pies. The sounds of Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darin filled the boutique, thanks to Myles Hayes and his trio. Notable attendees included Stanley Wozniak, Jessica Moazami, Paul
Arnow of Black Label, Herb Stokes of The Affluence Group, Alayna Crenshaw of Pomellato, Stephanie Degen, Hugh Mallaney of Illinois Mechanical Sales, stylist Naima Naito, and Joseph Baldassare & Tony Nourmand of Reel Art Press.

Dressed in Ermenegildo Zegna Couture, Stanley Cup Champion and Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp hosted a private event to celebrate the store’s new design on the
Mag Mile with nearly 200 friends and fans. Clad in Zegna were DJ Michaelangelo L’Acqua, Saam Hagshenas and Jonathan Marks of the local band Hey Champ. DJ Michaelangelo provided the lively beats throughout the store and the Hey Champ duo performed a live set for the well-dressed crowd. Created by Zegna’s in-house
architects, the Chicago store design is based on the creative concept developed by architect Peter Martino for the Zegna global store in Milan. With the addition of a second level, the store now covers over 4,300 square
feet of space. Seen on the scene were Hawks players Brandon Bollig and Michael Kostka, Jerry Azumah, Eric Ferguson, Jon Harris, Stefan Holt, Chef Bill Kim, Saira Cooper, "Check Please!"Catherine De Orio and Alicia Roman. (Photos by Daniel Boczarski and Barry Breicheisen courtesy of Zegna).

Join WGN “Living Healthy Chicago” host Jane Monzures for Live, Love, Life on November 2nd at the Museum of Broadcast Communications to benefit the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Department of Neurology and the Feinberg School of Medicine for research of rare degenerative brain diseases. Jane recently lost her beloved mom, Barbara, to this disease and she hopes you'll join her for this event to celebrate her life and support a great cause! Click here for tickets ($125) or to make a donation.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel will receive this year’s JUBA! award from the Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), the world’s first year-round presenter of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts, on October 28th on the Jay Pritzker Pavilion Stage in Millennium Park. CHRP’s annual gala, JUBALEE! supports performance, education and
community programs that reach more than 20,000 people every year. This special evening will be hosted by broadcast legend and civic leader Bill Kurtis. Past JUBA! Award honorees included Savion Glover, Gregory Hines, Bill Irwin, former Mayor Rich Daley, Maggie Daley, Ted and Susan Oppenheimer, Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra. The evening will include performances by CHRP’s resident ensemble BAM!, the Greg Spero Trio, youth from the Bronzeville Lighthouse Charter School and other special guests. For tickets to JUBALEE ($150, $250 and $500), contact Catherine Painter at CPainter@chicagotap.org or 312-542-2477 ext. 203, or visit chicagotap.org.

Philanthropists Ann Lurie (president of Lurie Holdings and of the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Foundation) and Dolores Kohl (president and CEO of the Dolores Kohl Children’s Museum) will be honored at UNICEF’s 3rd annual Chicago Humanitarian Awards Luncheon on October 25th at the
Ritz-Carlton. Co-chaired by Susan Schmitt and Susan Sholl, the luncheon will also showcase The Eliminate Project, UNICEF’s global campaign to rid the world of maternal and neonatal tetanus, a deadly disease that steals the lives of nearly 60K newborns and a significant number of women each year in 26 countries. For tickets ($65) and more info, click here.

Susan G. Komen recognized Chicago’s fight against breast cancer on October 16th by honoring Dr. Funmi Olopade at a reception with some of Chicago’s top business leaders. The evening kicked off with a lighting of the LaSalle Street Bridge in the color pink to
mark October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Olopade is an international leader in cancer genetics, seeking personalized treatments for the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. Much of her work is focused on women in
Chicago, where discrepancies in breast cancer mortality rates between African American women and white women are among the highest in the country. “African American women in Chicago are more than twice as likely to die of breast cancer compared to
white women,” said Nancy G. Brinker, founder and chair of global strategy for Komen. “This is stunning. And it is a clear sign that we have work to do in ensuring that every woman has access to education, screening and treatment.” To date, Susan G. Komen has invested more than $17 million
dollars into research in Illinois through 74 different grants. And since 1997, the Chicagoland affiliate has granted more than $13.5 million dollars toward community-based efforts
here in Chicago. The evening’s event was graciously underwritten by Howard Bernick and raised $215,000 that will go directly towards breast cancer research and Chicago community initiatives. Guests in attendance to mark the second annual bridge lighting included co-chairs Janet and Craig Duchossois, Lisa and Jeff Aronin and Catherine Perez; guests Ann
and John Barney, Eve and Rich Biller, Nancy Brinker, Dennis Carlin, Nora Daley and Sean Conroy, Bonnie Gordon, Andrea Herenton, Leslie Hindman, Jeff Jacobs, Carol and Larry Levy, Wade Miquelon, Harriette and Ted Perlman, Michael Perlow, John and Colette Rau, Stephen Schwartz, Robin Loewenberg and Mark Tebbe and Beth and Bruce White. (For info about this much-needed organization, please click here.)

Don’t miss the 52nd annual Golden Fellowship dinner, “The Power of Opportunity: Moving Chicago Forward”, presented by the Chicago Urban League on November 9th at the Hilton Chicago. The event, co-chaired by E. Scott Santi and Gregory Wasson, will be hosted by beloved comedian Damon Williams and feature the O’Jays! Honorees for 2014 are Reverend Jesse Jackson and Louis Gossett, Jr. For tickets, ($600) and more info, click here.

The Society of Architectural Historians will present awards for excellence at its upcoming gala on November 9th at The Casino (195 E. Delaware Place). The theme of the gala, “A Century of Progress: 1913-2013” recognizes the changes in the urban landscape over the past 100 years and will honor Adrian Smith & Gordon Gill Architecture, Judith Paine McBrien (The Archimedia Workshop), Blair Kamin (Chicago Tribune’s Pulitzer Prize-winning architecture critic) along with Zoe Ryan, Alison Fisher and Karen Kice of the Department of Architecture and Design at the Art Institute of Chicago. For tickets ($150) and more info, click here.

The International Beethoven Project (IBP) welcomed over 250 guests including Honorary Chairman Richard H. Driehaus and Inese Driehaus, for its Masquerade of LOVE, the opening night ball for Beethoven Festival:
LOVE 2013. Held at the Merit School of Music on September 7th, the event benefitted IBP, a Chicago-based non-profit dedicated to the promotion of revolutionary culture, inspired by the music and life of Ludwig van
Beethoven. IBP Founder, President and Artistic Director George Lepauw announced at the Masquerade that the organization met The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation’s previously announced $100,000 challenge grant, resulting in a
total of more than $200,000 for the organization and its ambitious Beethoven Festival programming. This is the largest matching grant
the Driehaus Foundation has ever made to a performing arts organization. The 2013 Benefit Chairs were Erika R. Knierim and Christine Rosso. Additional distinguished guests included Merit School of Music President Duffie Adelson; architect Lucien Lagrange; Alliance Française de
Chicago Board President Hervé de la Vauvre; Abe and Angela Thompson; Chicago Intercollegiate Council CEO and Chairman Conrad Miczko; Jim and Joan Shapiro; and gallerists Sven Asmus and Arica Hilton. The IBP’s mission is accomplished through the presentation of an
annual Beethoven Festival, concerts, mixed media exhibits, lectures, the production of recordings and films, the commissioning of new music and art, publications and educational outreach in schools and universities, as well as in nontraditional venues. The
unconventional and multidisciplinary Beethoven Festival was inspired by concert pianist and Founding Artistic Director George Lepauw’s cultural explorations of Paris, London, Beijing and New York. (For more info, click here.) (Photos by Charles Osgood and Paul Crisanti.)

Delectable dishes, daring designs and magnificent tablescapes! DIFFA/Chicago’s 2013 DINING BY DESIGN titled “Beauty and the Feast” is set to take “wow” to the next level from November 7th through 9th. Guests will enjoy masterpieces in richly designed tablescapes by top designers and delicious tastings by renowned local chefs from Henri, Embeya, Piccolo Sogno and more at the Merchandise Mart, 8th Floor. During this time, DIFFA/Chicago will offer the public two distinct ways in which to enjoy this popular event beginning with a public viewing, EYE CANDY on November 8th (tickets are $10), followed by POP UP, Table Hop & Taste on November 8th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Tickets start at $40.) For tickets and more info, call 312.644.6412.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition of Candid Candace! And if you missed my Sunday Chicago Tribune column, click here for fab photos from the Art Institute of Chicago’s Auxiliary Board Masquerade Ball co-chaired
by Toni Canada, Roxy Goebel, Jade Newburn, Matt Pettinelli and Steve Somogyi! Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ Corbin Horn was a stand-out with his face paint inspired by surrealist artist Rene Magritte!

I also hope you have a very happy Halloween! We can’t WAIT to spend time back in Old Town with friends Lucy, Steve and Isabel Weiss at their “spooktacular” home on Menomonee on All Hallows’ Eve! BOO!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here’s another great event for Halloween hosted by The Cure It Foundation’s Junior Board on October 26th! Monster Masque will be held at the St. Germaine School (located at 9734 S. Kolin Ave. in Oak Lawn) and will feature great costumes, music, haunted house, raffle and fab food. The party is fun for the whole family and will support kids touched by childhood cancer.

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October 15, 2013 · 8:43 am

PRIMO CLASSICO BR’ITALIA’S FAST CARS AND KIND STARS

…PLUS AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS GALA; THE LANGHAM CHICAGO’S GRAND OPENING; DANCING WITH THE GIORDANO STARS; HALLOWEEN PARTY PICKS; A BIG NIGHT FOR ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL; WCIU SHOWS CAMP LOVE; CIARA PARTY AT LUMEN; ELDA’S NEW SPOT; AKIRA’S SUPERSONIC BOOM; NINA AND BOB’S 12TH; NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

I knew this wasn’t going to be easy but I had no idea how difficult moving could be. Sadly, now I know and I feel like it’s taken years off our lives. We downsized to a beautiful condo – albeit one smaller than our former home – so I expected to be surrounded by packing boxes for a while but I didn’t realize that I wasn’t going to be able to find anything even with perfectly labeled boxes. It took me three days to find my underwear (I know, too much info, but it’s true) and I still can’t find Chuck’s files nor can I locate our CDs. A little Cole Porter with wine right now would certainly do us a lot of good! Thank goodness for my stepson, Charley Jordan, or else we would still be breaking down boxes for recycling! Paul Gonzalez, who is a dear friend, was our designer for our house on Menomonee and he is lending his magic here at our new place…and it’s actually beginning to look like a smaller (more manageable) version of our old house. Most of my treasured antiques and artwork look even better here than they did before. Paul and I find ourselves continually saying, “Where was that? I don’t remember seeing this before”, etc. Chuck said it’s like Christmas all over again for me opening boxes with new/old treasures and, in a way, he’s right. We’re still overwhelmed but the pros far out way the cons as we enjoy this elegant building with friendly neighbors, a beautiful patio (which the dogs LOVE), a heated garage, doormen and so much more. The park across the street is an added bonus and it makes me feel like I’m living on the edge of Central Park. It’s a perfect location on a charming street and we’re anxious to make new friends in this wonderful part of Chicago. And even though I’m venting right now, once I find that underwear box, I’ll be golden.

The sky was Windex blue and the temperature was perfect for the annual Primo Classico, this year themed Br’Italia, to celebrate all things British and Italian at Lake Forest Sports Cars on September 22nd. More than 300 people turned out for this beloved event chaired by noted philanthropists Diane and Quinton Primo. The event benefitted the Primo Center which was founded in 1985 by Quinton’s father and he and Diane are continuing the tradition in style raising funds for this program dedicated to providing interim and supportive housing for homeless women and children and to ending the cycle of poverty. The celebration actually began the night before at the Primo’s elegant home in Lake Forest. They hosted an intimate evening to thank the sponsors and supporters of the event. Diane greeted guests as they arrived and master mixologist Benjamin Newby was stationed by the door entrancing guests with his “smoke under glass” Manhattan presentations before dinner and the evening’s entertainment began. Grammy Award-winning entertainer Arturo Sandoval played the piano and sang to a rapt audience in the drawing room before a delicious dinner was served. Fabulous Chef Charles Webb created a menu that was inspired by his recent travels to Italy, Spain and Sicily the week before. It included short ribs with truffle potatoes, Maine lobster with organic tomatoes and basil, homemade gnocchi and Australian rack of lamb with blueberry balsamic reduction among other delicacies. Dessert highlights included orange scented trifles with strawberry and blueberry mousse, flourless chocolate bites with pistachio cream and fresh berries. Diane and Quintin graciously thanked everyone for coming and talked about the center and how it benefits so many. For the main event on Sunday, guests could pose by a mini Trevi Fountain or be snapped on the paparazzi- packed red carpet. Lake Forest Sports Cars owner Rick Mancuso donated his gorgeous showroom for the event and Carla Giordano of the Lamborghini Club of Chicago did a great job assembling vintage and one-of-a-kind cars for attendees to ooh and ahhh over. (A $2 million Maserati garnered LOTS of attention!) Each food station was tastier than the last and included offerings from Bella Via Ristorante, Pelago, Prosecco, The Florentine, Tesori, Tocco, Travelle, Volare Ristorante and Blue Plate Catering to name a few. Maurice Hennessy – an eighth-generation member of the famed Cognac house – was on hand as a sponsor and also donated a one-of-a-kind trip to his family’s estate in France. Actress/director Phylicia Rashad snapped this package up along with another making her the perfect choice as the evening’s honoree. G-Man Greg Dellinger served as auctioneer for the afternoon and I think he’s the best in the business. Not only does he raise big money for the charity but he’s also entertainment in and of himself flying around the room encouraging bidders to go higher. He really puts his heart and soul into his work and it always brings big rewards dollar-wise. Auction highlights included an exotic trip to Muscat, Oman courtesy of Qatar Airways that included two business-class tickets and a five-night stay in a suite at the Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace. Susan Gohl, who is always so charitable, donated her elegant 107-foot yacht, the Susanna Bella, for a cocktail cruise with eight friends in Naples, Florida. Dana Hokin, another charitable friend, donated a stay at her family’s fabulous Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, for five nights in a charming beachfront cottage. A New York trip included tickets to “Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark” courtesy of glam woman-about-world Sugar Rautbord. Other live auction items included dinners for 10 prepared by chefs Vogel and Jean Tippenhauer. An Aston Martin generously offered at cost by Lake Forest Sports Cars brought in big money for the Primo Center as well. A fashion show produced by Trevian Kutti included selections by Vivienne Westwood, Monique Lhuillier, Moschino, Blumarine and Trussardi. Ballerinas from the Chicago Ballet School danced to the show’s hot soundtrack that was created by London DJ Sweet T. International model Daje Barbour opened and closed the show. The event was a great success due in large part to its outstanding host committee that included Oswald Boateng, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Mary Jo Basler, Les Coney, Joan Colmar, Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecori, Kathleen Gaynor-Dickey, Susan Gohl, Hedwig and Robert Golant, Maurice Hennessey, Paul Iacono, Kathleen Klaeser, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sugar Rautbord, Frances Renk, Rochelle and Charlie Trotter, Dan Uslan, Mamie Walton, Andrew Hart, Kathy Reilly and so many more! More than $400,000 was raised to benefit the Primo Center for Women and Children which is an interim and supportive housing program that provides a safe, healthy and positive environment for homeless women and their children. To see ALL of the fabulous photos by Mila Samokhina, click here and let me take YOU to the party below on Watch312.com!

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The Langham Chicago opened in grand style recently along the Chicago river elegantly occupying the Mies van der Rohe landmark building at 330 N. Wabash. Langham Hospitality Group Executive Chairman Dr. K.S. Lo and Managing Director of The Langham Robert Schofield invited a select group to the afternoon luncheon and ribbon cutting ceremony that included former Mayor Richard Daley, Dirk Lohan (designing grandson of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe who designed the Lohan Lobby in the hotel) and Lang Lang, world famous pianist who is also The Langham ambassador. The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on the plaza overlooking the river and included remarks by Alderman Brendan Reilly, Daley and Lohan. Dr. Lo thanked the crowd for attending and for welcoming The Langham to Chicago. Mayor Daley mentioned Chicago as a global city and how important it is to have this latest jewel in Chicago’s crown. (His father was at the groundbreaking in 1973 for this landmark building.) This hotel is the Langham Hospitality Group’s fourth U.S. property and offers 316 rooms (starting at 516 square feet, making them some of the largest in the city); a world class Chuan Spa; Tiffin afternoon tea in the Pavilion Lounge; an elegant Langham Club Lounge with legendary butler service directed by Carlos Carrera; a Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Travelle, under the director of Chef Tim Graham; a 22,000-square-foot health club; a 67-foot pool; 15,000 square feet of event space and so much more. The artwork rivals any museum’s collection with many pieces selected by Dr. Lo’s glamorous daughter Katherine Lo Bo Lun. An evening event featured Lang Lang at the piano much to the delight of all in attendance. Notables seen on the scene included Katie Benson (CEO and executive director of Langham Hospitality Investments), Joe Aguilera (Langham hotel manager), Rebecca Werner (PR Director The Langham Chicago), Paul Iacono, Helen Melchior, Joan Colmar, Darleen Hill, Veranda Dickens, Bunky Cushing and Kathy Adams to name a few. Since 1865, The Langham has built a legacy based on luxurious comfort and service innovation and it continues this tradition, much to our delight, right here in Chicago! Watch the party on “Candid Candace Chicago” below! (For more info, click here.)

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More than 200 of Chicago’s most fabulous and philanthropic headed to the swanky Gold Coast club The Back Room for the Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s third annual cocktail party on September 26th. Co-chaired by MaryAnne Smith, Lesley Prizant Goodman and Carol Beitler, the event raised funds to support the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House located in Streeterville. As guests dined on signature food and cocktails from the club, they were also treated to a jazz performance from the Bobby Lewis Quartet. The fabulous fete also brought out some well known Chicago faces such as PGA Tour golfer Luke Donald and wife Diane (RMH Women’s Auxiliary member), former Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith, NBC Chicago’s Daniella Guzman (RMH Women’s Auxiliary member), Stefan Holt and Kye Martin, Heather Farley, Helen Melchior, Sheryl Dyer and Bill Chunowitz, among many others. Always located in close proximity to area hospitals, Ronald McDonald Houses provide a “home away from home” for the families of sick children who are receiving life-giving care at nearby facilities. The Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s provides care and comfort for 86 families each and every night. For more information, visit www.rhmccni.org.

Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) hosted its 8th Annual Dancing with the Giordano Stars competition benefit at Park West on September 26th. Patterned after the hit ABC series “Dancing with the Stars,” the popular competition dance benefit was hosted by NBC’s Wayne Johnson and drew a crowd of more than 300 enthusiastic fans and raised more than $120,000, setting a record-high total for this event which benefits GDC and its outreach programs. The evening began at 6 p.m. with cocktails and light fare, followed by the competition. The five male competitors and their GDC dance partners were Executive Director of the Auditorium Theatre Brett Batterson (with Katie Rafferty); VP Sales Bridge-X Technologies, Inc. Kip Helverson (with Maeghan McHale); President, KMKCK Corp. Ken Moll (with Rachael B
erube); Kendall College Director of Strategic Initiatives Joe Monastero (with Ashley Downs); and Ford model David Sanchez (with Laurel Bashore). The five female contestants and their GDC dance partners were ViLiving general counsel Tara Cope (with Devin Buchanan); co-founder and co-proprietor of Barrington Hills’ The Gentleman Farmer CSA and market farm Jessica Green (with Zachary Heller); freelance artist Sheila Newman (with Martin Ortiz Tapia); Embeya restaurant Director of Sales Komal Patel, (with Joshua Blake Carter), and Chicago civic and philanthropic leader Sara Crown Star (with Sean Rozanski). Ken Moll was voted Best Male Contestant and – in a very close race – Jessica Green won for Best Female Contestant. (An honorable mention went to Sara Crown Star.) For more info on programs and GDC events, call 312-334-7777 or click here.

Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control (FCACC) held its ninth annual fundraiser – Big Night – recently with a record turnout! More than 400 tickets were sold and more than $92,000 was raised during this popular celebrity chefs event that secured funding for another year to provide support and comfort for the animals at ACC. Proceeds will also support its foster program that saved the lives of nearly 400 animals last year. Fifteen Chicago chefs including Jill Baron of MANA Food Bar, Ryan Pitts of RL and Toni Motamen of Raw Bar & Grill served tastings of their favorite dishes to attendees who sipped on cocktails from the Muttini Bar serving Cosmopoodletons and non-alcoholic Kitty Cocktails. Famed Chicago Chef Jackie Shen started Big Night in partnership with FCACC in 2005 to benefit the organization by raising money and awareness for animals from Chicago’s city shelter. Jackie now provides oversight from afar, living in Michigan and operating her restaurant The Stray Dog, in New Buffalo. She helps to recruit chefs year after year. Notable Chicagoans came out to support the cause including emcees Channel 7 Sportscaster Jim Rose with his wife, lifestyle design expert Lakesha Rose, as well as businessman and Chicago Wolves owner Don Levin, generous longtime supporter of Friends. A variety of exclusive items were purchased during the live and silent auctions including VIP passes to “Conan” donated by iO Theatre owner Charna Halpern, a behind the scenes tour at the Shedd Aquarium, Blackhawks and Bulls courtside seats and more. Live entertainment was provided by violinist extraordinaire Katarina Visnevska and animal communicator Carolee Biddle. (For more info on FCACC, click here.)

Celebrate the season of giving at the Metropolitan Family Services 32nd Annual Holiday Celebration on December 7th beginning at 6 p.m., at the Chicago Hilton, 720 S. Michigan. Enjoy live entertainment from Sammie Torres and Friends, cocktails, dinner and dessert along with fabulous live and silent auctions. There will be a special raffle for a wine collection featuring select vintages. One hundred percent of proceeds benefit the programs and services of Metropolitan Family Services, which has empowered families to learn, earn, heal and thrive since 1857. Tickets are $350. For more information, visit www.metrofamily.org or call 312-986-4172.

Huge kudos to WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” for the great segment on my favorite makeup artist Michael Perich and his fabulous CAMP Cosmetics line! Co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman hosted a great segment on fall cosmetic trends from CAMP and it was terrific and informative. If you missed it, check it out below! Congrats to Michael! (To view CAMP’s fabulous makeup line, click here!)

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And speaking of “You & Me This Morning”, I was thrilled to return to the show recently to discuss my top five event picks for fall! If you missed the segment, see below and put these hot parties on your calendar now!

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Recently, R&B singer Ciara hosted the Hennessy V.S. party at Chicago hot spot, Lumen. The singer rocked darker locks with an all-black ensemble, including a chic cropped black sweater (a la Miley) and black leather pants. She thanked the crowd for coming out and for supporting her new album, Ciara. Later in the evening, the singer was spotted chatting up Tone Kapone from the Power 92 Hot Boyz radio show. (Pics by Onasis.)

In the fight against breast cancer, it’s a team effort. That’s why Chicago Bears cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman has joined with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and P &G Brands to host the “Best Defense Day of Action” on October 22nd at Halas Hall. He’s leading the charge in the program to ask men to work with the women in their lives on an early breast cancer detection program and will tell his personal story at a media event at noon. (His grandmother is a breast cancer survivor.) So join Peanut at 1920 Football Dr. in Lake Forest beginning at 11:45 a.m. and be inspired. 🙂

Looking for something spooky to do for Halloween? Well, look no further than “Boo: A Halloween Ball” on October 31st at the Chicago History Museum from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be terrifying tales told by Steppenwolf’s Jessica Thebus and music that will wake the dead by DJ Nix with devilishly delicious craft cocktails. Come dressed to impress in your most spooktacular costumes for an event so good, it’s to die for!!! LOL! (For tickets and more info, click here.)

And another great Halloween event will be at Chicago’s favorite wine-driven destination, The Boarding House, on November 2nd. An All Hallow’s Eve affair will benefit Imerman Angels, whose mission is to provide personalized connections that enable 1-on-1 support among cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers. From 6:30 to 10 p.m., guests are invited to enjoy a bar package featuring a selection of spooky cocktails and bewitching wines and beers on the haunted first floor and subterranean cellar of 720 N. Wells. The evening’s festivities will also include complimentary appetizers, decked-out décor and a costume contest judged by Imerman Angels’ very own founder, Jonny Imerman. Tickets to the event are $85 per person and will be available through www.TicketLeap.com or by calling (312) 280-0720.

Join Children’s Oncology Services as they celebrate their 35th Anniversary Gala on November 7th at the Chicago Cultural Center. The evening will feature Michael Lerich & Orchestra as well as a packed silent auction. The evening will benefit the COS’ One-Step Programs that offers camp experiences for children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. For tickets and more info, visit www.onestepcamp.org)

Beloved Chicago designer Elda de la Rosa is relocating and having a BIG Farewell Event at her Edgewater location on October 17th. Join Elda at 5555 N. Sheridan Road from noon to 8 p.m. for this big sale consisting of all bridal gowns, special occasion pieces, accessories and one-of-a-kind fabrics at deep discounts! Elda will launch her 2014 collection on November 1st at the new “Made in Chicago” AIBI store in the Gold Coast located at 17 E. Pearson! Good luck Elda and I’ll see you soon!

Don’t miss Akira’s 11th annual fall fashion show and signature event of the season, Supersonic Boom, on October 20th at Grossinger City Autoplex beginning at 4 p.m. You’ll experience sensory overload with small bites from top restaurants around town, a breakdance performance from Brickheadz, mini massages from ellehomme Holistic Med Spa and a fabulous Akira pop-up shop! The show will feature Kristin Cavallari and 30 of Chicago’s top models! Proceeds from the evening will benefit YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. For tickets, beginning at $30, click here.

Congrats to Nina and Bob Mariano on the recent grand opening of their 12th store, this one located in the South Loop at 1615 S. Clark St. (Mayor Emanuel was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony.) He knows what buyers want and gives it to them in grand style at great prices! And aren’t they just the cutest couple around, too?! Mariano’s has created approximately 4,200 jobs in Chicagoland to date and this new location will add another 425 positions. A hot party held that night brought out the FOMs (Friends of Mariano’s) in force! Congrats, Nina and Bob! Love you!

More congrats are in order for Katie Cahnmann and her fabulous event site, NowYouKnowEvents.com, as they celeb
rate their third anniversary! Her loyal crowd of friends and followers enjoyed a fun filled night out at River North’s Blackfinn Ameripub!

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte doesn’t need any more battery power but he has joined forces with Duracell as they donate their new Quantum batteries to the City of Chicago’s Fire Department. This is part of Duracell’s commitment to donate 1 million batteries to the first responders across the country that need them for life-saving devices. #NICEWORK (Photo by Barry Brecheisin.)

ABC 7 Chicago President and General Manager John Idler and “Windy City Live” host Val Warner supported an event for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), an organization that advocates for abused and neglected children in the foster care system. Val emceed the fundraiser that also honored Rocky Wirtz, chairman of the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks, for his community service. The event took place on October 8th at Lloyd’s in Chicago. Congrats John, Val and Rocky on your good work!

Congrats to the happy couple, Macy’s Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker, on their recent engagement! Here’s to a lifetime of happy memories together!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition! I hope to get back on track now after our big move and thank you for your patience. I’ve missed you terribly so stay tuned for the 411 on 312 right here on CandidCandace.com! You can also find me on Twitter, Facebook, Chicago Now, videos at Watch312.com and every Sunday in the Chicago Tribune!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here’s what’s happening in our new ‘hood next weekend: On October 20th, you won’t want to miss this furry 10th annual Halloween Party & Parade hosted by Tails in the City with an adorable costume contest from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. – hope to see you there!

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September 18, 2013 · 9:37 am

GREEN TIE BALL AND MORE: CHICAGO IS ON FIRE WITH HOT EVENTS FOR FALL!

…PLUS DWYANE WADE GIVES BACK; PGA WIVES TOUR; ADLER’S CELESTIAL BALL; MUTT STRUT; JACKIE TAYLOR’S NEW HIT; DEVIL’S BALL; BARBARA BATES’ FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER; JOFFREY’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS; ODYSSEY’S $2-MIL RENO; VICTOR AND SHERREN ARE DREAM WEAVERS; I “HEART” REKLAMA AND MILA; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO; TOP FALL EVENTS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Green Tie Ball, benefitting Chicago Gateway Green, always has the BEST themes in town! For 2012, the theme was “Alice in Wonderland” and boy did they ever have fun with that! As soon as you entered the grounds of “Finkl Town” (aka A. Finkl & Sons at
2011 N. Southport), you knew it was going to be a fabulous night. With dramatic decor that included oversized lamp fixtures on every bar with big clocks hanging from the shades, this event propelled me right down the rabbit hole along with 3,000 other guests! Characters that included Alice, the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat and the Mad Hatter roamed the grounds giving all of the
guests great opportunities for photos. And for this year’s 22nd annual event, it was no different: Themed “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”, this gala was a very sweet treat indeed. Co-chair Lee Golub (along with wife Sandy) described
it best: “This year’s theme will satisfy your sweet tooth and bring music makers and dreamers of dreams together. Just like Wonka offered the children of his adventure a lifetime of chocolate, events like tonight allow us to offer
Chicago a lifetime of sustainability and beauty. So, for tonight, claim your Golden Ticket, delight in our pure imagination and dare to dream of a better Chicago.” More than 50 restaurants participated in the gala which the “Food
Dude” David Lissner described as “the largest damn culinary event ever!” Several of the restaurants had fun with the Willy Wonka theme including Old Town restaurant, The Refinery. Pastry Chef Hetty Art, enclosed five Golden Tickets inside her chocolate fudge with the winners receiving gift bags. Too
cute! Other highlights included a bubble-blowing DJ from Red Moon Theatre Company, glow-in-the-dark cotton candy and characters from the Willy Wonka movie that included a chocolate boy and a huge, purple
Violet Beauregarde. For the third year, Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini emceed the event alongside co-chairs Sandy and Lee Golub (who was dressed as Willy Wonka)! Dancers opened the night with a hot DJ set by Justin
Jacobson and later, Lee Golub drummed onstage with his cover band, Dr. Bombay. In a nearby tent, Rivers Casino hosted craps, roulette and blackjack tables with winnings going towards the raffle. The headliner of the night, SNDCLSH – a DJ duo
consisting of Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco and DJ Sky Gellatly – kept the guests on the dance floor including the VIPs in the Oompa Loompa lounge. For the last song, Fiasco rapped out his hit “The Show Goes On”
while confetti rained down from the stage. This year's attendance of 3,500 was a record breaker! Guests seen on the scene included Kim DeJesus, Joanna and Grant DePorter, Erica Strama, Lana Bramlette, Jason
Erkes, DJ Rock City, Katie Cahnmann, the Landan twins, Alayna and DC Crenshaw, Chef Ryan Poli, Kimberly and James Feeley, Daniela Guzman, Anna Davlantes, Alicia Roman, Tony Abruscato, Brenda Arelano, Rachel Haley, Susanna and Tom Negovan, Donnell Wolford, Bob Sirott and Bridget Halanski. Other familiar faces
included Joe Minoso and Yuri Sardarov of NBC’s “Chicago Fire”. Each year, the Green Tie Ball raises funds for the Expressway Partnership Program, an initiative aimed at “beautifying the gateways and transforming the roadways into parkways.” This year's event raised more than $480K. (For info about Chicago Gateway Green, click here.) (Additional photos by Dwayne Kuan.)

Families and children staying at the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s (located at 211 E. Grand Ave.), were treated to a visit from members of The PGA Tour Wives Association on
September 11th, complete with Patriot Day activities for the kids. The visitors, who were in town for the BMW Championship that took place recently in Lake Forest, included Diane Donald, Amber Watney, Rachel Thompson, Lori Points, Katie Robinson, Amy Wilson,
Brittany Horschel, Rosalind Schwartzel, Taylor Fowler, Debi Rolfing, Lynn Fowler and Stephanie Mrofchak. The PGA Tour Wives Association gives back to golfing communities and child-related charities through volunteerism and other contributions. The fun-filled afternoon at the House featured a variety of activities, such as a
“Hands Helping Hands” craft where children created American Flags to send to U.S. troops and their families, a special ceremonial salute with the Chicago Fire Department, and a delicious lunch of dishes from the PGA Tour Wives Association’s commemorative book, “Beyond the Fairways and Greens”. The special day originated with Diane Donald,
wife of PGA Tour player Luke Donald. The couple (who call Chicago home) became supporters of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana in the fall of 2012 when they first visited the House near Lurie Children’s. Today, Diane serves on the charity’s Board of Directors, and Luke has been raising money for RMHC-CNI through a unique fundraising initiative called Birdies for the House. Love this! Congrats and thanks ladies!

At the Adler Planetarium’s Celestial Ball, more than 725 guests helped raise $1.4 million for the Adler’s STEM education programs which
reach more than 90,000 students and teachers each year with a special emphasis on at-risk communities. Apollo astronaut James Lovell, Jr. was the honorary chair and Elisa Primavera Bailey, Linda Gerstman and Donna Beering Wheaton were ball co-chairs.
With a theme of “Infinite Horizons”, the decor transported guests on a trip throughout the galaxy. A fabulous auction offered a family trip to Space Camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and a rare charcoal Labrador puppy. The Adler Planetarium, dubbed America’s First Planetarium, was
founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler and inspires young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

And could Dwyane Wade be any cuter?! Oh my goodness, an awesome athlete, handsome as can be AND charitable?! He is the real deal and it was a thrill to meet him at his recent Wade’s World Foundation
Gala hosted by CNN’s TJ Holmes at the Peninsula on September 6th. The VIP reception was packed with bold-faced names that included Michi and Brandon
Marshall, James Feeley, Dionne Williams, Deborah and Adam Farmer, Dr. Ian and Triste Smith, Alderman Carrie Austin, Damon Williams, Zoraida Sambolin and Kenny Williams, Secretary of State Jesse White, members of Mindless
Behavior (they have more than 1 million Twitter followers, don’t cha know?!), Michael Malone, Urban Prep’s Tim King, Father Michael Pfleger, Jolinda Wade, Jon and Andrew Landan, Lisa Newman, Astra Gamsjaeger and so many more. Wade’s sister Tragil introduced him
at the reception and congratulated him on his 10 years in the NBA (with the Miami Heat) and the 10 year anniversary of his foundation. The event also featured performances from violinist Lee England, Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Vashawn
Mitchell, singers Kristen Lowe and Mae Ya Ryan and comedian Damon Williams. Wade’s high school basketball coach Jack Fitzgerald spoke about how Wade had always been a team leader and children
from the foundation recited the “Live to Dream” pledge. Marjorie and Steve Harvey and Laura Ricketts received the 2013 Philanthropy Awards. (For more info and photos, check out my Chicago Tribune column here!)

Don’t miss Jackie Taylor’s “It’s All-Right to Have a Good Time”, the life story of Curtis Mayfield, at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center in previews now through the 21th! Reggie Torian, the lead singer of the Impressions, will be making his acting debut! Written by Jackie Taylor and directed by Taylor and Daryl Brooks, the production will begin on September 22nd. (For tickets and more info, click here.)

Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control will host their 9th annual celebrity chef's benefit, “Big Night”, to help the city’s neediest animals on September 26th from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington. More than a dozen of the city’s best chefs will participate in this event that will also feature an open “Muttini” bar, silent and live auctions (that will include Conan O’Brien tix and Sidney Garber jewelry) and so much more! ABC 7’s Jim Rose and his beautiful wife Lakesha will emcee. For tickets ($100 donation, $125 at the door) and more info, click here!)

The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University’s Junior Board brings “old Chicago” back to the Historic Landmark Theatre with the 3rd annual Devil’s Ball, on September 27th. Presented by Rivers Casino and themed after “old Chicago neighborhoods”, the event will host nearly 250 young professionals and feature a menu that will include deep dish pizza, mini Chicago hot dogs, Little Italy’s Italian beef, Spanakopita as on ode to Greektown and egg rolls and pot stickers highlighting Chicago’s Chinatown! Yum!!! (For tickets – $65 – and more info, click here.)

National breast and ovarian cancer charity Bright Pink’s 4th Annual FabFest is back, hosted by E! News anchor and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic, on September 29th at the Westin River North! At the event, more than 500 women from across the nation will join together for a day of health, wellness and beauty – all in support of the cause. (For more info, visit www.BrightPink.org and www.FabFest2013.org.)

I have a soft spot in my heart for The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails coming to Park West (located at 322 W. Armitage) on October 4th. Co-chaired by dual dynamos Kathleen Henson and Sonya Jackson, this is the 8th annual C & C and the second largest fundraiser for the Joffrey Ballet. I was proud to create this event with Helen Melchior, a long-time supporter/board member/mentor for this awesome company and, from the very beginning, it’s been all about the dancers! So happy to see this tradition continue in such a grand way and led by dear friends Kathleen and Sonya! This year’s event will feature a presentation of Joffrey costumes as well as the Couture Collection from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue that will include menswear! I hope you can all come out and join us for this chic event benefitting Chicago’s world class ballet company! For tickets and more info, visit www.Joffrey.org.

Celebrating 10 years of Chicagoans “strutting” their stuff for dogs in need, Chicago Canine Rescue will host their popular Mutt Strut on October 5th in Lakeview along Newport Avenue (between Southport and Lakewood). Dog-lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk with their “mutt” followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! Highlights will include a doggy fitness course, K9 cake eating contest, dog wash and nail trims along with a children’s bouncy house, face painter and costumed characters! Pet expert Steve Dale and NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celeb emcees. To register in advance ($25), click here! (Kiddies and doggies free!)

I had always wanted to take a trip on the Odyssey. My last time aboard was when my dad was still alive back in the ‘80s and, after I’d read about its recent $2 million reno, I was anxious to return to see the changes that were made and also to verify for myself all of the press I’d read. I was even more excited when they asked me to cover it! So, with my crack Watch312.com team in tow, along with my husband Chuck, we set
off on another new adventure aboard the largest vessel cruising Lake Michigan, the Odyssey Chicago. As we wended our way up the gangplank, I was delighted to see that every passenger was given a great photo op behind its signature lifesaver. And as I entered the space, I was blown away. I thought it was nice back in the ‘80s but now it's a floating palace…take a look at my video and you’ll see what I mean!

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A special thanks to Sherren Leigh and legendary photog Victor Skrebneski for making a dream come true. I’m thrilled to be appearing on my second cover for beloved Today's Chicago Woman Magazine for its 31st anniversary issue in October AND having it shot by Victor! It was the experience of a lifetime – read all about it here in my latest Chicago Now post. Thanks so much, Sherren and Victor and Dennis Minkel! (www.TCWMag.com)

And now, here are some not-to-be-missed events for fall! Hope to see you at one or more!

1. Primo Classico Br’Italia (benefitting the Primo Center): September 22nd at Lake Forest Sports Cars, 990 N. Shore Dr. in Lake Bluff from 1p.m. to 5 p.m.

2. Goodman Season Opening Benefit: September 24th, featuring “Pullman Porter Blues” (Performance follows the gala dinner at The Standard Club)

3. Ronald McDonald House Annual Cocktail Party: September 26th at the Back Room, 937 N. Rush from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

4. Big Shoulders Fund Ball: September 27th at the Illuminating Co., 2110 S. Wabash from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

5. Imerman Angels’ Tuxes & Tees Ball: September 28th, Roosevelt University Ballroom at 430 S. Michigan

6. Chicago Humanities Gala: October 2nd at The Four Seasons at120 E. Delaware beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Congrats are in order for The Joffrey Ballet! The Board of Directors of the Rudolf Nureyev Dance Foundation have awarded The Joffrey Ballet a $500,000 challenge grant, creating an endowment for the purpose of producing and performing full-length story ballets for years to come. This grant represents one of the largest awarded to a single cultural institution in the Foundation’s history!!

So honored to have been included on the cover of this week’s Reklama with the beautiful Larisa Kronfeld! Thanks to fab fotog Mila Samokhina for making this happen and for her brilliant coverage of the Service Club’s Day on the Terrace fashion show which was also featured. 🙂

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace! We will be moving next week so wish me luck! My next report will be from the Gold Coast where we’ll be firmly ensconced with a doorman and a heated garage – I’ll finally know what all of the fuss is about! 🙂 And lastly, I always want to leave you smiling so this video should definitely do the trick!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. On the rooftop at Epic Sky, with a great backdrop of the city, Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan came to Chicago to promote the new home for their show – “LIVE! with Kelly and Michael” – on ABC 7 weekdays at 9 a.m.! Good luck, Kelly and Michael…you make a great team!

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September 4, 2013 · 1:04 pm

MUSINGS ON THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

…PLUS NEIMAN’S BEAUTY BASH (VIDEO); CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR’S “RED JACKET OPTIONAL”; WILLY WONKA’S GREEN TIE BALL (VIDEO); MICHIGAN AVENUE MAG CELEBRATE FIVE YEARS IN STYLE (VIDEO); DWYANE WADE’S STAR-STUDDED GALA; BEAR TIE BALL; CHICAGO INNOVATION AWARD NOMINATION; GLOBAL LATINO FEST; NIALA’S THIRD; ORYX MAG LOVES CAMP; SPACE519’S CHIC LAUNCH; HERITAGE AUCTIONS BRINGS VINTAGE TO BARNEY’S; SERVICE CLUB’S DAY AT THE RACES; CHICAGO FIRE’S SOCCER & STYLE AND SO MUCH MORE!

August is always a lazy month except for Macy’s Glamorama which seems to me to be the last gasp of summer fashion and fun. I know Kerry and Sarah Wood’s Woody’s Wiffleball
Classic added some star-studded excitement to the calendar as did Dance for Life and the Air and Water Show. And even
though the Thunderbirds didn’t perform, it didn’t cut down on the number of parties and the perfect weather still attracted crowds along the lakefront. We spent the day in the most beautiful penthouse in Chicago
with old friends. It was idyllic and a wonderful respite from our currently tumultuous life.

As some of you may or may not know, Chuck and I recently sold our home in Old Town. As much as we’ve loved this old house, it was time to move on. With multiple gardens and never ending maintenance, we decided our lives needed a breather. I never realized how much trouble, time and effort it required to move after 20 years in one
spot. I can’t believe the stuff I saved. Here’s my story: We had been talking about it for a year. Six
months ago, we put our house up for sale and it sold recently. For a while, I had mixed emotions since this house has held nothing but happy memories for Chuck
and me but as the years progressed and we became busier and busier, the fun of gardening in three gardens (deck, backyard and front yard) became harder and harder on both of us. In fear
of becoming something similar to Big Edie and Little Edie’s “Grey Gardens”, we did our best to keep up. But, as old houses get older, this presents a whole new set of problems we had no desire to deal with, gardening being the least of them. I’ve been packing for
months and it’s been bittersweet going through photos and memories – and goodness knows I have a few! – but what I’ve come to realize is how absolutely liberating it is to get rid of the old (except for your treasures) and begin anew. I
found out I’d saved so many things I didn’t really need, like one tiny yellow flipper that my mother had saved when I learned to swim. I also realized that no one will want my baby shoes (although Chuck is giving me a hard time about throwing them away.) Once
I started tossing, it was hard to stop. The first time Chuck met the woman who raised me and who was like a mother to me, Mary Johnson, she gave him a Mister Ed talking puppet. The joy on her face as she pulled the cord to make it talk was priceless but I figured it was just another tchotchke I could dump. When I was cleaning Chuck’s closet and saw
that he had squirreled it away in his sock drawer, it made me cry so it will definitely be moving to our new home. I once read an article about only children (of which I’m one) and had to laugh when it said they are savers and borderline hoarders. Sadly, this description fit me to a T but I’m determined to find and create a jewel box filled with only the
things we love and couldn’t live without. I also have some tips for first-time buyers: China cabinets are a definite no-no. (You never use the stuff you always think you will one day and most of it doesn’t go in the dishwasher anyway so who needs it?!) My days of formal
entertaining are long gone – friends are lucky to get chips and dip lately around my house so I have no qualms about giving away all of our crystal. And if you receive crystal as a wedding gift, which I know you will, run don’t walk to return it otherwise you’ll dust it for
20 years and then give it away. Another thing to remember when you buy your first home is to buy the best you can afford as far as home furnishings and decor. Everything else will wind up in the junk heap when you move so all of those Ikea purchases – although thrifty – wouldn’t be my first choice. I also suggest buying from auction houses:
These are great spots to find the unique and one-of-a-kind at great prices. It’s not so good for sellers but for buyers, it’s nirvana. There was a great article in the Tribune Magazine recently by Cindy Dampier titled “Lighten Your Load”. I was riveted reading it – her opening line read, “If you want to really see your stuff, move out of a place you’ve lived in for more than 10 years. Live in any one place north of a decade and the days in
which it’s easier to pretend you don’t see the 15 cheap floral shop vases on the closet shelf will start to outnumber you.” Today, I felt liberated to give things away to friends of ours who have always loved our style. These were pieces bought just to fill spaces. Don’t get
me wrong, they were the perfect objects for these particular spots but probably wouldn’t be right for a new place. The smiles and gratitude on our friends’ faces were worth way more than what we paid for these items. I’m happy to know that the people who bought our house are planning on raising a family here. This is definitely a home that will
be perfect for children. The backyard is completely enclosed with no alley so no fear of intruders and no worries for Mom and Dad when the kids want to play in the backyard. Another happy thought is the fact that I know they love this house as much as we loved it when we first bought it. Change is good (scary but good!) and Chuck and I are very much looking forward to our next chapter…albeit one with less maintenance!

It was a true beauty bonanza at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue for its launch party, co-hosted with Cheeky Chicago, to celebrate its newly renovated cosmetics department on August 22th. Almost 200 guests turned
out for this beauty bash that also included nail art from Astrowifey, music by DJ Mister Wolf, blowouts from Blowtique and special guest Tim Quinn, national director of artistry from Giorgio Armani. Dapper Quinn shared stories about celebrity makeovers and worked with guests to select special scents from Armani Prive
fragrance: He told me the fragrances were inspired by Armani’s travels and life experiences. Armani had even created a scent similar to the inside of the church he frequented with his mother when he was a child. I loved it! The line
for nail art from expert Astrowifey was three deep as she applied her unique skills to adorn each guest’s nails. The photo booth was a crowd
favorite, too, with everyone sharing their flipbook photos while they sipped Effen cucumber and black cherry cocktails. Even the appetizers were artistic with food displayed over various cosmetic products encased
within plastic trays! Special guests seen on the scene included Cheeky Chicago’s Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Fabrice Calmels, Corri McFadden, Marcus Riley, Bianca Camarena, Angi Taylor, Jessica Rosas, Claudia Sulkowski, Natasha Jovic, Kat Miletic, Molly Ellingsen, Stephanie Guerrieri, Jessica Schultz, Jelena Saric, Kathryn Sharples and Ven Effect founder Cecil Booth. The entire store is undergoing an amazing transformation. If
you haven’t visited in a while, you will love the changes for this “Jewel on the Mile”. Next up, the shoe department will have a
similar celebration bash with model/actress Joanna Krupa on September 12th! Hope to see you there! (For more info on Neiman’s special events, click here!)

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The Chicago Children’s Choir, under the direction of president/artistic director Josephine Lee, will host its annual Red Jacket Optional fundraising gala, celebrating the Choir’s 57th anniversary on October 18th at 6 p.m. at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. The Choir hopes to raise $1 million to continue to offer music education to nearly 3,500 Chicago
children, of which 72 percent come from low-income families. This event will bring together hundreds of philanthropic Chicagoans for a night of performances by 300 children in addition to the top-level Voice of Chicago. The gala will also debut the organization’s
new after-school program, the Englewood Neighborhood Choir, with their first-ever performance. “Violence in Chicago has reached epidemic proportions,” said Lee. “We as a community must help our city’s children find an alternative to the streets, and music holds that power to change lives.” For tickets ($500) and table sponsorships, please contact Emily Hallock at ehallock@cchoir.org.

One of Chicago’s most celebrated charity events, the Green Tie Ball, returns this year with a whimsical “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” theme. Hosted by Chicago Gateway Green, which is dedicated to greening and beautifying
the region’s expressways, gateways and communities, the Green Tie Ball (presented by A. Finkl & Sons) will be held on September 7th on Finkl’s factory grounds at 2011 N. Southport. Founded in 1992 by Chicago Gateway Green’s late founder Donald
DePorter, the Green Tie Ball is one of the city’s largest celebrations with officer-at-large Grant DePorter continuing the traditions of his father. This year’s event will feature DJ sets by SNDCLSH consisting of Lupe Fiasco and DJ Sky Gellatly. (Fiasco, a Chicago native, is a Grammy-nominated artist.)
Co-chair Lee Golub and his band Dr. Bombay will also take the stage, as well as other guest deejays throughout the evening. Partygoers will enjoy tastings from more than 55 of Chicago’s top restaurants, like Siena Tavern, Lockwood, Mercadito, Jellyfish, Tavernita and Public House, as well as multiple open bars with premium
offerings. ABC7’s “Windy City Live!” hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini, will return to emcee once again. The fundraiser is co-chaired by Lee Golub of Golub & Company and his
wife, Sandy. Vice co-chairs are Grigory Pekarsky of Vesta Preferred Realty and Molly Bromiley of Northern Trust. There will be a VIP reception from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. where guests arriving on the green carpet, adorned in their most
marvelous green-tie attire, will be greeted with a champagne toast as they make their way to the cocktail reception. In addition, a silent auction and Rivers Casino charitable gaming area – the ball’s exclusive gaming sponsor – will feature roulette, blackjack and craps. Winnings from the
casino game will go toward tickets for the raffle. VIP tickets ($250 in advance or $275 at the door, both options which includes admittance to the VIP cocktail reception and gala.) This popular gala, returning each year with a new and engaging theme, raises
funds for Gateway Green’s Expressway Partnership Program. It was first held in 1992 as a 500-person street party and is now one of the best-known charity events in Chicago, attended last year by nearly 3,000 people and raising more than $450,000. The gala attracts Chicago’s most prominent public, political and media figures, environmental
supporters as well as young professionals and local celebrities. General admission ($150 pre-purchased, $175 at the door) can be purchased here. For more info about Chicago Gateway Green, click here. (Photos by Mila Samokhina…and to see my Watch312.com video from last year’s “Alice in Wonderland”-themed event, see below!)

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Michigan Avenue Magazine celebrated its fifth anniversary in style with cover girl and Grammy-winner Michelle Williams. Held at Chicago’s newest
luxury hotel, the Langham Chicago, the evening included a red carpet reception, a video tribute (filmed by our Watch312.com team) and a surprise Eli’s Cheesecake birthday presentation. Almost 300 fans and friends turned out to congratulate
president and publisher Dan Uslan and editor-in-chief JP Anderson. Take a look at the fun on my Watch312.com “Candid Candace Chicago” show below!

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Basketball great Dwyane Wade and Wade’s World Foundation (WWF) will celebrate dual 10th anniversaries with a benefit gala on September 6th at the Peninsula Chicago. Dwyane will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of his foundation and his 10th year in the NBA with the Miami Heat. The evening will also honor comedian/talk show host Steve Harvey and wife Marjorie along with Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts with Excellence in Philanthropy Awards. Starting at 6:30 p.m. with a reception on the Shanghai Terrace, the event will also include a red carpet reception, dinner, cocktails and live performances. Former CNN reporter TJ Holmes will serve as the emcee.
Surprise guest performances will highlight a tribute to Wade. Wade’s World Foundation provides support to community-based organizations that promote education, health and social skills for children in at-risk situations. As part of the 10th anniversary celebration, D-Wade and WWF will host a series of events to support our youth and the work of his foundation. For info on the foundation, click here and for tickets ($350), contact D. Williams Public Relations Group at 312.243.9060.

Mark your calendars now for the 21st anniversary of the Bear Tie Ball on March 8th at the UIC Forum from 6 p.m. to midnight. Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation was founded
in 1992 by Kathleen Casey. This national foundation is named in memory of her eight-year-old son, Barrett “Bear” Krupa, who died after a courageous 5 1/2 year battle with Wilms Tumor, a pediatric cancer. Over the course of
two decades, the Bear Tie Ball has been the organization’s largest, most important fundraiser. Last year’s co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto raised more than $750,000. I’m honored to be the chair of this year’s big event and know I have very large shoes to fill! Hope you can all join me! (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

The Ninth Annual Global Latino Fest will commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month with a showcase of culture, cuisine, arts and entertainment from Argentina, Brazil, Cuba and Mexico with a marquee event on October 11th at Germania Place, located at 108 W. Germania Place. All proceeds from the event will support The Resurrection Project’s (TRP) “La Casa”, an initiative that combines affordable housing with support services to help students graduate from college. Prominent guests who will be in attendance include Alderman George Cardenas, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Andrew Hayes, Sherren Leigh, Cheryl Pearson McNeil and Toni Preckwinkle. For tickets and more info, call 312.346.0211.

Congrats to Niala Conte, owner of the new fashion outpost NIALA CONTE (formerly Strut Boutique) that opened recently at The Shops
at North Bridge, located at 520 N. Michigan. “With the success our stores are receiving in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, and at our Geneva, Ill. location, we felt expanding into a third boutique was the natural progression for the company,” said Conte. Shoppers
will find an exciting selection of women’s clothing, handbags, clutches and jewelry. Niala also carries selections from designers Borris Powell and Sheetah Patel. I love this store and Niala’s taste is impeccable. I even found my Joffrey Gala cocktail dress here and it’s one of my favs! Good luck Niala! (For more info, call 312.832.3200 or follow Niala on Facebook and Twitter @nialaconte).

I’m so excited for my CAMP Cosmetics’ Candid Candace lipstick! Oryx Magazine, the official magazine of award-winning Qatar Airlines, has chosen it as a “Wish List” item! It will featured, along with other “highly covetable” products, in its October issue! Oryx reaches a high volume audience of 1.4 million passengers per issue!! It truly is the BEST coral shade you can buy if I say so myself! For more info on Candid Candace lipstick, click here! (Thank YOU sooooo much, Oryx and Qatar Airlines!!!!!!)

Don’t miss the chic launch of karl lagerfeld + melissa, a shop-in-shop set to open at space519 on September 12th from 6 to 8 p.m. Annie Barlow, Kimberly Burt, Toni Canada, Eva Daiberl and Amanda Puck are co-hosting this event that will include Moet champagne and macarons plus Melissa shoes, couture dolls and accessories from Mua Mua. RSVP to whitney@space519.com and I’ll see you there!

Have you visited the Heritage Auctions’ vintage luxury collection at Barney’s yet? OMGoodness! What a great idea to add a section like this to a major store! The collection includes vintage luxury accessories from Hermes, Chanel and Christian Dior. Highlights include an Hermes 23 cm black Caiman croc Constance bag from the 1980’s, an Hermes 35
cm Rouge H Ostrich Birkin bag from the 2000’s and a Chanel cream lambskin leather Double Flap bag from the 1990’s! Vintage couture is here to stay and now has a nice home at Barney’s! Thanks to Heritage Auctions Chicago director Barbara Conn for this cool info! (For more info, visit www.ha.com.)

The Bark Breakfast Benefit will be held on September 7th at the Omni Hotel beginning at 10 a.m. This event will benefit K-9s for Warriors and will include the NBC cast of “Chicago Fire” along with the Mayor. The K9s for Warriors program/rescue pulls dogs from shelters and trains them to be service dogs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury resulting from their service to our country. Ninety-four percent of every dollar raised goes directly to veteran and service dogs. (To make a donation and for more info, click here.)

The Service Club of Chicago’s “Day at the Races” will be held on September 21st at Arlington International Racecourse (the Governor’s Room) beginning at 12:30 p.m. Co-hosted by Heather Jane Johnston and Sally Jo Morris, the event will feature a cocktail reception, luncheon buffet and a limo bus from Gibsons. (For tickets and more info, email info@serviceclubofchicago.org.)

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE a good street fest and this one sounds fabulous: Lincoln Square will celebrate its 26th annual Apple Fest, “Apples, Cider and Hay Bales…Oh My” on September 21st from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Giddings Plaza, located at 4700 N. Lincoln Ave. This free event will include more than 40 vendors and will showcase all things fall. You will have the chance to enjoy amazing apple inspired dishes including apple cider,
apple pies, apple pizza, apple caramel bread pudding, apple smoked pulled pork sandwiches…well, you get the idea! There will also be live music, a kids’ zone, a bounce maze, storytelling, face painting and more! Hope to see you there!

Soccer and Style, a fashion show featuring the hunky Chicago Fire players, will be held on The Wit’s ROOF, located at 201 N. State St. on September 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. (The show starts at 7:30 p.m.) Come see your favorite players walk the runway in this season’s hottest looks from Penguin, Diesel and
Chicago Fire apparel while supporting a great cause. All proceeds will benefit the Chicago Fire Foundation, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for youth and communities throughout Chicagoland by promoting health and wellness, education and the environment. The Foundation also supports organizations that share this vision. (For tickets – $50 regular and $75 VIP – click here.)

The American Cancer Society’s 5th Annual Skyline Soiree will be held on September 20th at City Winery, located at 1200 W. Randolph. The event will feature wine-themed activities and include live
music by Final Say: A Maggie Speaks Band, open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a raffle. Celeb guests will include Kate Pankike (“Project Runway” designer Seasons 11 & 12), Ed Swiderski (winner of Season 5 “The Bachelorette”), Showbiz Shelly (B96 radio) and ESPN’s Sarah Spain. (For tickets – $105 online and $120 at the door – click here.)

The Chicago Fringe Festival 2013 presents “Love, Guts, High School”, a wickedly funny one-woman play by Jeannette Bonner. This breakout hit about young love, self-acceptance and taking life advice from a Magic 8 Ball will premiere at The Gift
Theatre, located at 4802 N. Milwaukee in Jefferson Park on September 5th. (It will run through the 8th.) Bonner plays herself offering an engaging and often self-deprecating recount of relationships she grapples with during her secondary school years. It’s a must-see! For tickets and more info, click here!

And last but not least, I’m so thrilled that my Watch312.com internet show, “Candid Candace Chicago”, is nominated for a Chicago Innovation Award! The gala event will be held at the Harris Theater on October 30th…my fingers are crossed!!! (For tickets and more info, click here!)

I hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Candid Candace! As always, please email me any news and events that you think are special and I’ll try to add them here. I shared a story recently on my Chicago Now blog that has received a lot of interest. It’s a human interest story about my upbringing that you might like. The title is “What Mary and Jim Johnson Taught me About Racial (In)Equality”. Wish they were here now…

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to the Drake Hotel’s Shaun Rajah! After nine years as special events manager at the Palm Court, he is moving on to a new position as senior catering sales manager! Welcome him as a new U.S. citizen, too – so happy for you, Shaun!