Tag Archives: Blackhawks

November 21, 2011 · 8:47 pm

“DREAMING A LITTLE DREAM” FOR ST. JUDE

…PLUS PAWS’ RECORD BREAKER, OPEN DOORS GALA, MARTHA STEWART, TOY DRIVES, A TRIP TO THE DESERT, HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS AND MORE!

It is so heartwarming to see charity events breaking records in these tough economic times. All of the events I’ve attended recently have had record attendance and have raised more money than in years past. This year’s, St. Jude “Dream a Little Dream” Fashion Show and Luncheon was no exception. With the biggest crowd in the event’s 17-year history, this much loved event brought out more than 1,500 supporters and raised more than $338K! Presenting sponsors for the next two years, Camping World and Good Sam presented a fashion extravaganza produced by none other than Chicago’s own Tracey Tarantino of ZZazz Productions. (Nancy Long was the fashion coordinator.) They knocked it out of the ballpark with collections from York Furrier, BCBG, Cusp, Neiman Marcus, Escada, Talbots, Luca Luca, Swaby, Nade Baer, Elda de la Rosa, menswear by Lord & Taylor and Furla accessories. Show highlights included glam jewels from sponsor Swarovski and a cool, holiday-inspired collection by designer darling Peach Carr of “Project Runway.” Since this is the 17th year of this event and the underlying theme of the fashion show was “Dream a Little Dream,” Tracey opted for music from The Beatles, opening with “She Was Just 17.” There were even five dancing Marilyn Monroes to add some high energy fun to the show. Entertainment was provided by Larry Adams who performed with his wife, Jessye Wright. Both are accomplished singers with Larry being named by Chicago magazine as Chicago Theatre’s best singer. Emcee for the event was NBC’s Allison Rosati who charmed the crowd from beginning to end. I was so thrilled to be the honorary chair and my highlight was introducing this year’s host family, Annie and Michael Brady and their superhero son, Michael. Michael was diagnosed last year at age three with Stage 4 neuroblastoma. Within hours of this diagnosis, Michael and Annie were pursuing the best course of treatment for their precious little boy. With the support of family and friends, they decided to uproot their small family (Michael also has a little sister, Allie) and relocate to Memphis, the home of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. They made this decision knowing that at St. Jude, Michael would receive the best care in the world available for children with cancer. Annie, told the crowd in a moving speech that her daughter “took her first steps in the halls of St. Jude with the support and cheering of St. Jude staff.” Executive Committee member Cathy Shaker Breit said, “I was informed that tickets sales were sold out four weeks ago or else the attendance might have hit over 2,000. This event, from my 478 years on the Board (LOL!) is by far the largest I’m aware of. The goodwill and grassroots efforts it creates to fuel other local Chicago events is invaluable.” (To view Michael Brady's heartfelt story, please see the following video).

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This event began with a champagne reception as well as makeup and hair touchups by Trish McEvoy and Ultimate Hair and a wine tasting by The Naked Grape. I was also proud to conduct a “Text to Live” that raised an extra $4,400 for the event. The extensive raffle had something for everyone and is always a favorite of attendees. Exciting packages this year for the Dream Raffle included tickets to the finale of “American Idol,” a Disney package with a Waldorf-Astoria stay, Blackhawks, Sox and Cubs tickets, a $1,000 Nordstrom gift card and a Kayman Scooter among hundreds of other prizes. The St. Jude Executive Committee – Cathy Shaker Breit, Ann Danner Dwyer, Toni Hasan and Terry Shaker – worked long and hard to make this “Dream a Little Dream” a reality and they did so in grand style. Congrats on this wonderful event benefitting the premier pediatric cancer research center in the world! To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and John Giesecke, please click here and to view my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below! Do you like the new show name!!??? 🙂

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The PAWS Fur Ball is one of my favorite events! How could it not be when you see terriers in tennis shoes, dachshunds in diamonds and Chihuahuas in cowboy hats?! And like the St. Jude event, this event was also a sellout with more than 650 animal lovers and their 200 pets! The 10th annual Fur Ball’s co-chairs Julie and Kurt Miller and Nancy and Michael Timmers planned an exciting night of fundraising highlights that included amazing one-of-a-kind live auction packages. A trip for two to Argentina brought $11K while a portrait sitting by Victor Skrebneski raised $31K. Other packages included two tickets to an “American Idol” taping in Hollywood, a week-long stay in a Tuscan villa, tickets for two to the 2012 Grammy Awards (that sold for $25K) and the opportunity to have your pet featured on the cover of PAWS’ 2013 desktop calendar that sold for $38K. Five-year board member Judith Blazer also donated $1 million the week before to support PAWS’ many good works. Fifteen PAWS puppies and kittens were on display tugging at everyone’s heartstrings and during the course of the evening six were adopted. One of the adoptees, a kitten with burned paws who had just been released from the hospital on this day, was the first to be adopted by Joann and Michael Sweig. Two of my tablemates, Anne-Marie and Murry Peretz, also became proud parents of a darling doggie on this magical night. This premier pet lover’s event began with a red carpet followed by a cocktail reception surrounded by the extensive silent auction items. There was even a doggie spa complete with masseuses and pawdicures donated by Paradise 4 Paws. Canine guests were also treated to a Pet Buffet located in the French Room where they could dine on chicken and rice with gravy, green beans and carrots served in crystal goblets and dog cookies, donated by McGrath Lexus & Acura. Animal communicator Debbie Weaver was on hand as well as artist Rosemary Fanti who had so many requests for pet pics that she ran out of paper!!! Human parents enjoyed a delicious dinner buffet in the elegant Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel; dancing continued in the French Room. PAWS Chicago has been saving pets’ lives since 1997 and, this year, will exceed 4,200 adoptions. Founder Paula Fasseas was proud to report that this year’s event netted $750K - $150K more than last year’s! To learn more about this worthwhile organization, please click here. To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and moi, please click here and to see my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!

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Columbia College’s Open Doors Gala, co-chaired by Richard Kiphart and Sylvia Neil, raised nearly $700K and honored Linda Johnson Rice, chairman of Johnson Publishing Company. The organization’s first Chicago Legacy Award was created to recognize those who have made a significant impact in the Chicago community and have helped “open doors” for future generations. Johnson Publishing has a long-standing relationship with Columbia College, including hiring interns and graduates. Columbia College recently purchased the Johnson Publishing headquarters building for the future site of the college library. This festive evening began with a cocktail reception featuring creative installations throughout the Media Production Center displaying student film work, art, photography, jazz music and fashion design. Columbia President Dr. Warrick Carter and Board Chairman Allen Turner welcomed guests. The sit-down dinner, catered by Food for Thought, followed and included a root vegetable “mosaic wall” and beef tenderloin plus a made-to-order donut bar for dessert. The evening’s entertainment featured performances by the Columbia College Gospel Choir & Rhythm Section among other student-driven performances. Congrats to Linda Johnson Rice for this much deserved honor! For more info about Columbia College and all they have to offer, please click here. (Photos courtesy of Steve Becker and Robert Kusel…to view all event pics, please click here!)

The North Shore Women’s Board and the Chicago Women’s Board of the American Cancer Society along with The Book Stall recently welcomed dining and design guru Martha Stewart to celebrate the release of her new book, “Martha’s Entertaining: A Year of Celebrations.” More than 320 guests, including author luncheon chair of the NSWB Shannon Weasler, author luncheon chair of the CWB Connie Teska, and emcee Kathy Brock (ABC 7) enjoyed lunch at the Hilton Orrington Hotel in Evanston while listening to Stewart discuss her life and work. The event raised more than $15K for the American Cancer Society. Seen on the scene were Lynn McMahan, Michaela Parrillo, Toni Canada, Kristina McGrath, Jan Flanagan, Angie Campolo, Megan Galante, Jan Evans, Stacy Barrins (Chicago Women’s Board president), Andrea Hurteau (North Shore Women’s Board president), Sally Jo Morris, Betty Rendell, Ann Lynch and Sheree Valukas among many others.

And now here are some upcoming events for wonderful causes that Candid Candace Recommends!

On December 10th, don’t miss Kris Kringle’s 9th Annual Holiday Toy Drive and Kandy Kane Ball at 940 W. Weed St. beginning at 9 p.m. Spinmasters DJ Sye Young and DJ JEM will get the party started at this Winter Wonderland (aka Joe’s Bar) where a toy donation is required and pre-sale tickets are only $40. Cocktail attire is requested and there will be an open bar, appetizers, a live choir and festive holiday décor. The toys will be distributed to hundreds of children at Holy Name Church on December 17th and anyone is welcome to help. It’s a great opportunity to give back during the holiday season! This event is an annual sellout so get your tickets now! Tickets can be purchased at www.Ticketweb.com or at Joe’s Bar.

Still with children in mind for the holidays, the 5th Annual Brad’s Kids Toy Drive will take place on Thursday, December 15th, from 7 – 9 p.m. at The Joynt, located at 650 N. Dearborn. All you need to bring is a new, wrapped toy to gain entry to this party offering complimentary cocktails, live music and more! Since 2007, Brad’s Kids has delivered more than 25,000 toys to seven local hospitals. Visit www.bradskids.org for more info.

How about a terrific holiday getaway for a good cause? On January 27th, Dance for Life will host a celebratory evening of dance in support of the AIDS Assistance Program and The Dancer’s Fund in Palm Springs at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Annenberg Theater. Tickets for the event start at $150 and can be purchased by calling 760.325.8481 or clicking here. With Chicago Ambassadors Katherine Chez Malkin and Carol Kaplan rounding up support from other “snowbirds,” you know this event will be a sellout!

I hope you, your families and friends all have a delightful, healthy and Happy Thanksgiving. We have much to be grateful for…

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And if you’re getting in the gift giving mood for the holidays and just don’t know where to go, may I suggest Leslie Hindman Auctioneers at 1338 W. Lake St.? Her “Fine Jewelry and Timepieces” auction will begin previews on Wednesday, November 30th , beginning at 10 a.m. The preview will run through Saturday, December 3rd, with the auction on Sunday and Monday, December 4th and 5th. I have the catalog and, believe you and me, there are more than 1,100 lots running the gamut and price ranges in luxurious jewelry and watches. :) Sigh…

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Tagged as 5th Annual Brad’s Kids Toy Drive, AIDS Assistance Program, Allen Turner, Allison Rosati, American Idol, Andrea Hurteau, Angie Campolo, Ann Danner Dwyer, Ann Lynch, Anne Marie Peretz, Annie Brady, BCBG, Betty Rendell, Blackhawks, Camping World, Candid Candace Chicago, Carol Kaplan, Cathy Shaker Breit, Chicago Legacy Award, Chicago Women’s Board of the American Cancer Society, Columbia College Chicago, Connie Teska, Cubs, Cusp, Dance for Life, Debbie Weaver, Disney, DJ Jem, DJ Sye Young, Dr. Warrick Carter, Drake Hotel, Dream a Little Dream, elda de la rosa, Escada, Fashion Show, Fine Jewelry and Timepieces, Food for Thought, Furla, Good Sam, Grammy Awards, Jan Evans, Jan Flanagan, Jessye Wright, Joann Sweig, Joe’s Bar, John Giesecke, Johnson Publishing Company, Judith Blazer, Julie Miller, Katherine Chez Malkin, Kathy Brock, Kayman Scooter, Kris Kringle’s 9th Annual Holiday Toy Drive and Kandy Kane Ball, Kristina McGrath, Kurt Miller, Larry Adams, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Linda Johnson Rice, Lord & Taylor, Luca Luca, Lynn McMahan, Martha Stewart, Martha’s Entertaining: A Year of Celebrations, McGrath Lexus & Acura, Megan Galante, Michael Brady, Michael Sweig, Michael Timmers, Michaela Parrillo, Mila Samokhina, Murray Peretz, Nade Baer, Nancy Long, Nancy Timmers, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, North Shore Women’s Board of the American Cancer Society, Open Doors Gala, Paradise 4 Paws, Paula Fasseas, PAWS, PAWS Fur Ball, Project Runway, Richard Kiphart, Robert Kusel, Rosemary Fanti, Sally Jo Morris, Shannon Weasler, Sheree Valukas, St. Jude, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Stacy Barrins, Steve Becker, Swaby, Swarovski, Sylvia Neil, Talbots, Terry Shaker, Thanksgiving, The Book Stall, The Dancers' Fund, The Joynt, The Naked Grape, Toni Canada, Toni Hasan, Tracey Tarantino, Trish McEvoy, Ultimate Hair, Victor Skrebneski, Waldorf-Astoria, Watch312.com, White Sox, York Furrier, ZZAZZ Productions

October 10, 2011 · 7:03 pm

THE LYRIC OPERA AND THE 47TH CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL CELEBRATE GRAND OPENING NIGHTS!

…PLUS ST. JUDE'S "DREAM A LITTLE DREAM" FASHION SHOW, FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION BALL AND LESLIE HINDMAN AUCTIONEERS PLAN FOR BIG EVENTS!

The Lyric Opera’s Opening Night Gala Benefit (sponsored by Aon Corporation) never fails to be one of the most glamorous affairs of the year. Their dynamic Women’s Board, led by President Anne Reyes, always plans a night of sheer, almost fairytale, elegance. The opening night performance of Offenbach’s “The Tales of Hoffman” enchanted 3,500 white and black-tie clad guests who filled the theater to watch the 2 ½ hour performance. The sets inspired the romantic décor in the Rice Grand Foyer at the Civic Opera House with overflowing floral arrangements and sparkling crystal and candlelight. The pre-performance festivities and between the two intermissions included delicious sweets and savories as well as a reception in the exclusive Graham Room. Here, the VIPs and bold-faced crowd mixed and mingled while enjoying Calihan Catering’s delicious ratatouille and goat cheese tarts, seafood bouillabaisse served over jasmine rice, quail, beef tenderloin over whipped parmesan potatoes and wild boar over truffled mascarpone quiche. Chocolate cognac-filled dessert crepes with assorted berries finished off this feast. Just a simple little meal before the performance! Opening Night and Opera Ball Chairs Trisha Rooney Alden and Karen Gray, along with vice chairs Rebecca Knight and Caryn Harris, created magic for the 625 guests who continued on to the Opera Ball at the Hilton Chicago. The sound of trumpets and women’s board members greeted guests as they arrived. The Grand Ballroom was filled with clouds of white floral arrangements set atop two foot tall crystal vases designed by Heffernan Morgan. The Stu Hirsh Orchestra performed in front of a replica of the backdrop that featured prominently in the performance and everywhere you looked, massive screens projected photos from past ball attendees as well as scenes from the opera. The Grand March of the Stars heralded the opening of the Ball as the crowd took their seats to dine on chilled lobster salad, filet mignon topped with red onion marmalade and slow braised beef short ribs served with Jerusalem artichoke heart hash and sweet potato gratin. Dessert included chocolate brulee, flourless white chocolate cake and strawberry and blueberry compotes. Caterer George Jewell outdid himself yet again! The Opening Night committee included Suzette Bross Bulley, Elizabeth O’Connor Cole, Stephanie Fisher, Christina Kemper Gidwitz, Rebecca Knight, Alison Wehman McNally, Mimi Mitchell, M.K. Pritzker and Dawn Shapiro. The Opera Ball committee was comprised of Renee Crown, Maxine Farrell, Caryn Harris, Debby Janotta, Kay Krehbiel, Ellen O’Connor, Cathy Osborn, Barbara Pearlman, Shirley Ryan, Nancy Searle and Liz Stiffel. More than $875,000 was raised for Lyric programming. Performances run through October 29th. For tickets and more info, please visit www.LyricOpera.org. (To view ALL of the fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click HERE!)

The Opening Night of the 47th International Chicago Film Festival couldn’t have been more exciting as the stars of the film, “The Last Rites of Joe May,” turned out in force to pack the Red Carpet! The film’s star, Chicago native and former cop Dennis Farina, happily chatted with every camera on the carpet along with the cast that included Gary Cole (who looked so thin but very handsome in person), Ian Barford (a Chicago actor and Steppenwolf Theatre Company ensemble member who played the very nasty villain), Jamie Anne Allman, Chelcie Ross, writer/director Joe Maggio and proud Film Fest founder Michael Kutza (who created the fest in 1964). Handsome actor Billy Zane (“Titanic”) also came out to support his friends. He was set to have a recurring role as Oscar Bianchi on the now-defunct "The Playboy Club." When I asked him what happened, he said, “Oooh, I’m not gonna go there. It could be anything…things behind the scenes that no one knows about…” (Watch for all of my Red Carpet interviews coming soon on Watch312.com!) The film was shot in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood and was produced by Farina’s production company, You’re Faded, and Steppenwolf Films, part of the legendary Steppenwolf Theatre Company. It features Farina as a small time hustler who finds a shot at redemption. It’s a dark film, definitely NOT the Disney Channel, but very compelling and powerfully acted by all involved. Renowned film critic Roger Ebert called it a “career performance” for Farina. The Festival, which runs through October 20th at the AMC River East 21, will feature 180 films from 55 countries and introduce 40 first time filmmakers. After the film’s debut at the Harris Theatre, 850 guests walked to the Chicago Cultural Center, which was lit up by strobe lights, to attend the after-party. I was happily surprised to see the stars show up as well and watched as they took photos and chatted with the happy fans. Delicious food, courtesy of The Gibsons Restaurant Group, included turkey burger sliders from LuxBar, jumbo shrimp cocktail from Hugo’s, filet mignon sliders from Gibsons and caramelized onion-goat cheese canapés and cauliflower-Stilton bisque soup from RL. I was proud to be a co-chair with Film Fest board member Rich Varnes for this event, whose proceeds supported Cinema/Chicago’s year-round Educational Outreach program that brings 5,000 children from Chicago’s public schools into theaters for special screenings that expose them to new cultures, foreign languages and thought-provoking subject matter. (For screening tickets and to learn more, please visit www.ChicagoFilmFestival.com.)

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will feature their annual “Dream a Little Dream” fashion show and luncheon on Sunday, November 13th, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. This year’s fashion show, presented by ZZazz Productions and emceed by NBC’s Alison Rosati, will feature the latest in fabulous designer trends, furs by York Furrier, Swarovski and a special guest appearance by "Project Runway" darling Peach Carr! This exciting event, benefitting the premier pediatric cancer research center, will begin with a champagne reception at 11 AM and an elegant luncheon beginning at noon (doors open at 10 AM). The Dream Raffle will include tickets to the finale of “American Idol,” a Disney package with a Waldorf-Astoria stay, Blackhawks, Sox and Cubs tickets, a $1,000 Nordstrom gift card and a Kayman Scooter among hundreds of other prizes! I am so proud to be the Honorary Chair for this event which is supported passionately by St. Jude CEO Rick Shadyac and my long-time friend, Ann Danner. When she approached me to be a part of this, I was thrilled as her enthusiasm for this worthy charity is contagious. She has shared the stories of St. Jude patients and survivors and I have been so inspired. Watch last year’s video of Marget Graham here and see for yourself. I hope you can all join me! (For tickets and more info, please visit www.StJudeFashionShow.com or call 800-621-5359). Happily, the tickets are going fast!

The enchantingly elegant and wonderfully wild Conservation Ball will be held on Friday, October 21st, at the Fairmont Hotel, located at 200 N. Columbus Drive. Hosted for the 21st time by chairman and FOC President, Reute Butler, daughter of Founder and International Chairman Jorie Butler Kent, this grand affair benefits the Friends of Conservation whose mission provides protection for wildlife in the Masai Mara and other wildlife reserves in Kenya and Tanzania, through habitat conservation programs, anti-poaching efforts, youth education and community development. Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy is the presenting supporter of this black tie ball, along with American Airlines and Gala Chairmen Rachael Phillippe, Holly Rothschild, Wendy Sherman, Jessica Swift and Joan Wegner. The evening will also feature renowned wildlife expert, Jim Fowler, who always brings along his delightful, furry friends. I’ve never seen a more extensive and exciting group of auction packages either! The trips offered are once in a lifetime experiences and include a South African safari, American Airlines business class tickets to London and South America, an eight-day trip throughout Turkey, a two-week trip to Antarctica aboard Le Boreal (the first all-balcony stateroom and suite expedition ship to travel to Antarctica), an 11-day trip throughout Thailand, a five-day journey to Peru, a collection of 100+ bottles of wine and the opportunity to custom craft your own batch of beer courtesy of Greenbush Brewing Co. & Fitzgerald’s Gastro Pub. Whew! The best part is you can be an absentee bidder, too! Donor tickets begin at $375 and for the younger set – 35 and under – tickets are $250. And if you’d just like to experience dancing to the Stanley Paul Orchestra and the wildlife presentation beginning at 8:30 PM, tickets are only $75. For more info, please visit their website. For bidding info and tickets, please email info@friendsofconservation.org or call 630.288.2714. Lions and tigers and bears, OH MY!

Leslie Hindman Auctioneers has a BIG auction coming up for fashion lovers and especially fans of the legendary Ebony Fashion Fairs founded by the one and only Eunice Johnson. Famed designer Stephen Burrows had this to say about Mrs. Johnson: “She exposed black Americans to a view of the world they would not have seen without the Ebony Fashion Fair at the time.” In a note enclosed in the auction catalog, Desiree Rogers said, “We will be selling a select collection from the Ebony Fashion Fair show and are excited to offer people a chance to own a piece from this historic collection.” There are 706 lots with items by designers including Valentino, Thierry Mugler, Oscar de la Renta, Lanvin, Issey Miyake, Geoffrey Beene, Emanuel Ungaro, Christian Lacroix, Carolina Herrera, Bill Blass and too many other notables to name. Eunice’s daughter, Linda Johnson Rice, said, “The show began in 1958 as a means of raising funds for black organizations and causes and over the course of its run, it succeeded in raising an astounding $55 million for charity!” Vogue’s Andre Leon Talley said, “Eunice was one of the most influential forces in the high-fashion world.” To see these exquisite pieces for yourself and, perhaps own a piece of history, come to the preview beginning on Saturday, October 15th at 10 AM at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, located at 1338 W. Lake St. The auction will be on Saturday, October 22nd, beginning at 10 AM. (Keep your eyes off of Lot #443 by the way – it’s going to be mine!) Fair warning!

Boy, we will be busy bees attending all of these fun and fashionable events around town! Hope to see you at one or more and that you’re enjoying these beautiful fall days! Next week, we will be taking the “kids” to one of the many pumpkin patches in the area where I hope to eat more than my fair share of apple cider donuts! Have a great week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t miss One Book, One Chicago’s interview with author Martin Amis at the Harold Washington Library Center, located at 400 S. State St., beginning at 6 PM on Tuesday, October 18th. Sun-Times publisher John Barron will be conducting the interview in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Click here for more info!

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Tagged as 47th Chicago International Film Festival, Abercrombie & Kent, Alison Rosati, Alison Wehman McNally, American Airlines, American Idol, Andre Leon Talley, Ann Danner, Anne Reyes, Aon Corporation, Barbara Pearlman, Bill Blass, Billy Zane, Blackhawks, Caitlin Collins Saville, Calihan Catering, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carolina Herrera, Caryn Harris, Cathy Osborn, Chelcie Ross, Chicago Cultural center, Christian Lacroix, Christina Kemper Gidwitz, Conservation Ball, Cubs, Dawn Shapiro, Debby Janotta, Dennis Farina, Desiree Rogers, Ebony Fashion Fairs, Elizabeth O’Connor Cole, Ellen O’Connor, Emanuel Ungaro, Eunice Johnson, Fitzgerald’s Gastro Pub, Friends of Conservation, Gary Cole, Geoffrey Beene, George Jewell, Gibsons Restaurant Group, Grand March of Stars, Heffernan Morgan, Holly Rothschild, Hugo’s, Ian Bargord, Issey Miyake, Jamie Anne Allman, Jessica Swift, Jim Fowler, Joan Wegner, Joe Maggio, John Barron, Jorie Butler Kent, Karen Gray, Kay Krehbiel, Kayman Scooter, Lanvin, Le Boreal. Greenbush Brewing Co., Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Linda Johnson Rice, Liz Stiffel, LuxBar, Lyric Opera, M.K. Pritzker, Marget Graham, Martin Amis, Masai Mara, Maxine Farrell, Micharl Kutza, Mimi Mitchell, Nancy Searle, Nordstrom, Offenbach, One Book One Chicago, Oscar de la Renta, Peach Carr, Project Runway, Rachael Phillippe, Rebecca Knight, Renee Crown, Reute Butler, Rich Varnes, Rick Shadyac, RL, Roger Ebert, Shirley Ryan, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Stanley Paul Orchestra, Stephanie Fisher, Stephen Burrows, Steppenwolf Films, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Stu Hirsh Orchestra, Sun-Times, Suzette Bross Bulley, Swarovski, The Last Rites of Joe May, The Playboy Club, The Tales of Hoffman, Thierry Mugler, Trisha Rooney Alden, Valentino, Waldorf-Astoria, Watch312.com, Wendy Sherman, White Sox, York Furrier, You’re Faded, ZZAZZ Productions

August 3, 2011 · 1:22 pm

SPORTS REIGNED AT DEMPSTER’S NIGHT FOR CHARITY

Chicago is exploding with fun parties, galas, fundraisers and festivals this summer and I hope you’ve been able to attend one or more of them! Recently, I attended the Second Annual Dempster Foundation Casino Night at the Palmer House. For all of you non-sporting types, Ryan Dempster is a starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs. He, along with his beautiful wife, Jenny, created the Dempster Family Foundation, Strike Out 22q. 22q is also known as DiGeorge Syndrome and is a genetic disorder that affects swallowing, breathing and speech in children. Ryan and Jenny’s little daughter, Riley, was born with this condition. One baby in 1,800 is afflicted with this disease and this night was dedicated to raising awareness and funds. An outpouring of support came from Dempster’s Cubs teammates and fellow athletes who attended including Carlos Zambrano, Carlos Marmol, Starlin Castro, Sean Marshall, Jeff Samardzija, Randy Wells and former Cub Doug Glanville, among many others. The event was held in the Grand Ballroom and the gaming tables, courtesy of Horseshoe, lined every corner, many manned by the players or local celebs. There was a silent and a live auction that offered an incredible autographed Babe Ruth baseball as its top prize that sold for $22K. Other live auction highlights included a guest spot on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” ($10K!), a World Series Package that included tickets for four plus a private charter and hotel, 2012 Ryder Cup Package for two, dinner for four with Ryan at Harry Caray’s, an Aria Resort and Casino Las Vegas Platinum Package and the dream of a lifetime; throwing out the first pitch at Wrigley Field for a Cubs game which brought $3,750! The silent auction was a sports memorabilia collector’s dream come true with autographed jerseys (including one signed by Ernie Banks), lots of signed baseballs and bats, Blackhawks tickets, theater tickets for Blue Man Group and Second City, restaurant packages, beauty treatments, trips and the chance for a young baseball fan to be a bat boy a Wrigley Field (this included four game tickets, too!). Ryan had this to say about the evening, “When people come together for a common cause, they can do a lot of good.” On this night, filled with love, $300K was raised. To learn more or make a donation, please visit www.dempsterfamilyfoundation.org. (To see ALL event pics, please click here.)

I had never been to a fashion show that featured just handbags and shoes but I was happy to know I didn’t need to be a size 6 to lust after these catwalk offerings! The American Cancer Society’s Women’s Board of Chicago, in conjunction with Saks Fifth Avenue, featured the fall designer collections that showcased two of my favorite things, shoes and handbags! The night began in the Palmer House’s Red Lacquer Room, one of the most beautiful ballrooms in the city, with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres along with a silent auction that included two VIP tickets to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week plus airfare ($2,300), a Fifth Avenue Getaway that included a suite at the Setai plus a $500 Saks gift card ($2,000), polo lessons at Arranmore Farm and a Chicago Weekend at the Palmer House plus dinner atop the 95th. The event opened with a birthday video (the American Cancer Society is the “Official Sponsor of Birthdays”) that included comments from Jack Black, Justin Bieber and Usher, to name a few. Women’s Board Chair, Stacey Barrins, welcomed the crowd of 400 to this unique show and said, “I have been entrusted with carrying on a legacy founded almost 60 years ago. New leadership naturally brings change, but the one thing that remains constant is our responsibility to raise funds in the fight against cancer.” Fashion Chair Bonita Friedland, along with the dynamic 22 member Women’s Board, raised $150K on this night. The next scheduled event is set for November 10th when Martha Stewart will be the guest speaker. For more info, please visit, www.AmericanCancerSociety.org.

TCW Magazine, along with Bob Graham, recently hosted a reception at UBS’ offices at One North Wacker to celebrate the women included in their recent feature, “100 Women Making a Difference.” It was such an honor to be included with so many dynamic Chicago women! The room was packed with honorees and their well- wishers for this cocktail and hors d’oeuvres party. The first thing you noticed upon arrival was the bank of gorgeous elegantly clad male models who were on hand to check you in. What a cute idea from Publisher Sherren Leigh and Managing Editor Cassandra Gaddo! The women immediately had their cameras out, me too, and began snapping away at this group of men who looked like they had all just stepped out of a Ralph Lauren ad. Congrats to ALL of the honorees and thanks for bringing this feature back, Sherren! (This idea was begun 14 years ago and last ran in 2001.) Check out ALL of the event photos by Steve Starr here.

Angela Rose, founder of PAVE: Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment, held a 15th anniversary party for her dynamic organization at Rockit Bar & Grill. This fundraiser included appetizers, a private reception and a chance to mix and mingle with supportive friends. The host committee consisted of Andrea Metcalf, April Rose, Cassandra Gaddo, Chloe Ifergan, Dr. Dominic Gaziano, Frances Renk, Glen Murray, Jenner Evans, Jonathan Landan, Lindsay Hays and moi. Save the date for their next Annual PAVE Charity Fashion Show, “Fear No Fashion,” at Bentley Gold Coast set for Friday, Sept.30th. Also, please check out their brand new website, www.ShatteringtheSilence.org. Congrats, Angela! (Photos by Steve Starr…click here to view ALL event pics.)

When Cece & Melinda throw a party, it seems like the whole world shows up! Their latest fete, with proceeds benefitting Bear Necessities, was a hit at Il Mulino. The outdoor patio was teeming with fashionables decked out in their summer’s best. And these ladies don’t stop: Their next big event will be the Third Annual Taste of the Gold Coast set for Tuesday, August 23rd, from 6 – 9 PM at The Sutton Place Hotel. Top neighborhood restaurants will participate with their head chefs offering delectable tastings from their gourmet menus. Look for fabulous food from Carmine’s, Il Mulino, Cape Cod, Saloon Steakhouse, Chicago Q, Devon Seafood Grill, Whiskey Bar, RA Sushi, Gaylord, Pane Caldo and many more. Live entertainment will be performed by two popular Gold Coast bands, Lynne Jordan & the Shivers along with Nan Mason & Terry Higgins. There will also be a silent auction benefitting the North Dearborn Association. For tickets, $80-100, please visit www.ceceandmelinda.com. (Tickets will also be offered at the door for $120). I hope to see you there! To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

The Rooftop at Studio Paris, located at 59 W. Hubbard, couldn’t be hotter after its opening this summer! And on Thursday, August 18th, the Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s will be hosting an exclusive event at this uber chic River North spot. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the development of the Rooftop Retreat of the world’s LARGEST Ronald McDonald House at 211 E. Grand Ave. in Chicago. Debuting in 2012, this space is designed to give families a chance to relax and replenish after a day at the hospital. The first skyline bricolage will also be featured on the rooftop of the new house and you will have the chance to add your name to a tile at the party! The mosaic will be showcased this night along with the artists. So grab your friends and head to the Roof to benefit the Roof for Ronald McDonald House Charities!!! Tickets are $150 and include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres plus the chance to make a difference…

Get ready to rumble for one of our town’s most popular columnists, STELLA FOSTER! On Friday evening, October 14th, the Chicago Journalists Association will honor Stella with its Lifetime Achievement Award! Her “Stella’s Column” in the Sun-Times, which runs every Tuesday and Thursday, is required reading for scenesters. Born in Chicago and raised in Englewood, her journalism career was officially launched when she began writing for Sister 2 Sister, a national entertainment magazine founded by her sister, Jamie Foster Brown, and husband. In 1969, Brown told Stella that legendary newsman Irv Kupcinet was looking for a new secretary. And the rest, as they say, is history! Tickets are $90. I will see you there! (For tickets and more info, please call 312.458.9792.)

And last but not least, huge kudos for one of the most high-powered peeps I know in the PR and marketing world, Kathleen Henson of Henson Consulting and top model, director and producer, Kasia Koniar (Factor)! These two high-powered dynamos were selected along with three other women to be featured in TCW Magazine’s “Professional Women” article slated for September! The other lucky girls include Nancy Loo (WGN), Noemi Garcia (Fifth Third Bank) and stylist Deshaia Moss (The Image Studios). Congrats to ALL of these deserving women and thanks for spotlighting them, TCW!!!

Another action packed month in the Windy City! Speaking of windy cities, please watch for me on “Windy City Live,” on Channel 7 on Monday, August 8th. I will be giving you MORE of the lowdown on upcoming city highlights! Also, please check out my weekly Tribune column, "Chicago Scene," every Sunday, my Chicago Now blog AND my upcoming internet show, “SOCIAL CIRCLES!” Busy BEE!