Service Club "Day on the Terrace" co-chairs Jean Antoniou (SC pres), Tracey DiBuono (show producer) and Sharyl Mackey.
The Service Club of Chicago, one of our city’s oldest charitable organizations, hosted its annual “Day on the Terrace” fashion show and luncheon at the Peninsula Chicago on August 7. This year's theme featured a
Tina Gravel makes her runway debut wearing Lauren Lein.
butterfly, symbolizing 133 years of change. The event, that welcomed over 300 guests along with returning veteran co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Sharyl Mackey, offered a ‘first look’ at fall fashion. Participating stores this year included: alice + Olivia, Anne Fontaine, Contessa
Ryan Baker and Micah Materre.
Bottega, Elda de la Rosa Couture, Lauren Lein Ltd., MaxMara, Mira Couture, Peter Millar, St. John Boutique, SYLWIA, and York Furriers. A dazzling finale presentation featured models wearing designs from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, escorted by dashing members of the
Kathy Piccone, Nikki Friar and designer Sylwia.
U.S Marines Corps. The crowd stood and applauded in a patriotic salute when they mounted the stage as the “Marines Hymn” played them on. The runway show was produced by ZZAZZ Productions with Tracey Tarantino DiBuono. DJ Akib supplied the background music for both the fashion show and after-party. Media personalities included Micah Materre, D.C. Crenshaw (with wife Alayna), Ryan Baker (with wife Jessa), Lou Canellis, Leah Chavie, Michael
Adiat Baker and Iya Bakare (the "B Sisters")
Kutza, Laura Schwartz, and Whitney Reynolds. Ashlea Hearn, Chicago Star Associate Editor, made her debut on
Tina Weller at after-party.
the runway as well, wearing St. John. Luncheon guests left with loaded goodie bags that included makeup and colognes donated by return supporter Claudio Riaz, a gift certificate for services from the Paul Rehder Salon, Divine Biscotti (donated by Debi Catenacci), and so much more! The after-party included light bites, cocktails, and music
Myra Reilly with family and friends.
by DJ Akib on the Shanghai Terrace. Event sponsors included Diamond Sponsors: 2X2 Health Private Nursing, Sherry Abrahams, Paula Borg and Kristine Kinder, Lauren Brynjelsen and Darby Hills, Cheryl Coleman and Susan Gohl, Marilyn
Dawn Hasbrouck (Fox-32 anchor) with Marine escort in DOT finale.
Hayden, Sharyl Mackey and Patty Marx, and Sherrill Bodine. Gold Sponsors: Melissa Babcock, Kathy Cook and Leslie Logsdon; Mary Lasky and Kate Prange; and Lodge Management Group (Lyn McKeaney). Silver
Jennifer Clarke and Andrea Antoniou.
Sponsors: Jean and Andy Antoniou; Tracey DiBuono; Gene & Georgetti, Weller Dental and Nina Mariano. The Service Club of Chicago’s mission is to assist, improve and expand on nonprofit organizations in the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients are in social service, cultural, educational, and civic fields. (Check the website for more Service Club events and info here. Photos by John Reilly Photography and moi)
Maria Pinto and friends at opening of her new boutique.
Maria Pinto, the esteemed Chicago-based fashion designer who has dressed luminaries like Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and countless other women of note over nearly three decades, has announced the move of her West Loop boutique to a new, larger (3,000-sq-ft) retail
Maria Pinto at 710 N. Wabash.
space in Chicago’s Gold Coast at 710 N. Wabash Ave. The move also ushers a meaningful name change of her label, M2057 by Maria Pinto, to the simple and iconic Maria Pinto. Her work first skyrocketed with her luxury collection in the early 1990’s, which was found in esteemed boutiques like Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys, Ultimo and Saks. Even Mick Jagger became a fan, wearing one of her scarves during a performance at Soldier Field. In the
D.C. Crenshaw and friend.
Michel Desjardins, Emmanuel Nony and friend.
early 2000’s, she stepped further into the international limelight, as First Lady Obama and Oprah sought and confidently wore her custom pieces. She has since earned countless accolades and honors over the course of her career. In 2013, and with a desire to create accessible, effortless fashion that empowers women to feel chic and
Justine Fedak (R) and friends.
confident, Maria launched M2057 by Maria Pinto and began selling timeless, ready-to-wear collections at her West Loop Chicago boutique, as well as online, where they remain available today. Her new boutique features carefully chosen fixtures and furnishings: An ethereal
David Zivan (center), D.C. Crenshaw and friend.
Mooon rug by Moooi Carpets; sleek Hahns Boodt Mannequins; an otherworldly Melt Chandelier by Tom Dixon; a modern Alwa One Table in Smokey Grey and Black by Sebastian Herkner; easy
Sanjay Sharma and Maria Pinto.
Custom Color Wendelbo Lobby Chairs; architecturally significant chairs by Toogood Spade and more. Immersive, larger-than-life photography of the designer’s current and archival collections adorns the walls, along with art pieces created by Ms. Pinto herself—whose passion for art led her to study both fine art and fashion at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). (Photos by Barry Brecheisen)
With more than 100 unique performances each summer between June and September, Ravinia Festival exerts an irresistible
Heather Headley performs at Ravinia Festival Gala.
allure for lovers of live music. For its latest Ravinia Festival Gala, that joy was elevated ten-fold by Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Heather Headley. Accompanied by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Chief Conductor Marin Alsop, her performance was
Rick and Gala Co-Chair Andrea Bechtel; Troy and Ravinia Festival Women's Board Chair Michele Ihlanfeldt; Gala Co-Chair Kelly and Jim Epstein.
nothing short of breathtaking. Headley is best known for originating the role of Nala in the smash hit Broadway musical, Lion King, and the title role of Aida for which she received the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Her Grammy win came for her 2010 gospel album, Audience of One. She is
BMO Commercial Bank Vice Chair Eric Smith and Ravinia Festival President and CEO Jeff Haydon.
also an Olivier Award Nominee for her role in The Bodyguard on London’s West End. The afternoon's festivities commenced on the North Lawn with a cocktail reception (sponsored by BMO) set amidst Ravinia Festival’s renowned sculpture garden. As guests
Ellie Forman (L) and friend.
mingled among masterpieces by Fernando Botero and Richard Hunt, the delightful melodies of the Ravinia Jazz Scholars & Mentors ensemble created a wonderful ambiance. Inside the Pavilion, over 600 guests and other music lovers alike gathered to enjoy the concert,
Elise and Ravinia Festival Board of Trustees Chairman Christopher J. Klein.
sponsored by The Dancing Skies Foundation. On the lawn, adorned with picnic tables and champagne, even more attendees relished the perfect weather and the performance.
Ramsey Prince (of Maison du Prince), event designer with friend.
Adding to the magic were the talented musicians from the Ravinia Lawndale Music School and the Voices of Trinity Mass Choir, who accompanied her performance. Headley's program was full of her favorite Broadway and other hit songs by Elton John, Stephen Schwartz, Harold Arlen, Tim Minchin, Kurt Weill, and others. She surprised the audience with the introduction of tenor Rodrick Dixon, who joined her
Pre-performance cocktail reception on the lawn.
for a spirited and inspiring finale. Within a beautifully adorned tent on the Ravinia grounds, the crowd enjoyed a dinner sponsored by Allstate and created
Garden-inspired decor by Maison du Prince.
by Jewell Events Catering. Décor by Maison Du Prince featured an elegant garden party theme. The "ceiling" twinkled with thousands of enchanting white lights while each table featured unique décor, with some guests dining under quaint iron cupolas placed above elaborate floral displays, while others enjoyed the evening's splendor surrounded by crystal candelabra and flickering candlelight. The "dinner in a garden" theme was completed with an array of mismatched crystal glasses and colorful, floral-patterned tablecloths. Hosted by the Women’s Board and co-chaired by Andrea Bechtel and Kelly Epstein, this 57th gala concert raised over $800,000 and is the only performance fundraiser benefiting Ravinia and its Reach Teach Play educational programs which engage more than 75,000 students and community members in interactive, free musical opportunities throughout Cook and Lake Counties. (Photos by Patrick Gipson, complete Ravinia Festival summer schedule here.
The Curio Experience in partnership with Bonhomme Hospitality hosted its second Fashion Social Hour at Kashmir, on the edge of the West Loop, where guests
Chic and sexy at Kashmir!
were treated to cocktails, a live performance, and a great venue for mixing and mingling. The mission of the group is to bring together the Chicago fashion community for networking and possible collaborations. At these monthly meetups, fashion designers, stylists, photographers, models, retailers, content creators and other creatives that need to work
Ian Gerard (co-founder of The Curio, 2nd from L), Meiling Jin, Rey Rodriguez, and friend.
together to be successful, are able to connect with one another in stylish locations around Chicago. The crowd of 250 included a bevy of beautiful models and content creators including Meiling Jin, Alisha Hoath, Edwin Medina, Jessica Milagros and Amy Anderson, designers including Jamie Hayes of Production Mode, Tania Mackey of NICZKA, AV Grannan, Jen Mason of Urban Sewing Society, and Viviana Langhoff, America Next Top Winner Jaslene Gonzalez, FGI Chicago heads Bhavana Jain and Hila Geller, Marquan Jones and leadership team of Chicago Fashion Coalition, Anna Hovet Dias of Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christine Griffith of Blk + Brwn Market, Ambar Campos of AIBI, Arabel Alva Rosales of Runway LatinX, Model Agency leads Jesse Abudayyeh (Select) and David Sanchez (10 MGMT), and Dani Alonso and his team from Bonhomme Hospitality. And of course lots of stylists, fashion photographers, retailers, and other industry members. I think this is such a great idea! Congrats to all, including Ian Gerard (The Curio co-founder) for this wonderful concept!
PAWS Chicago hosted its 20th annual Beach Party at Offshore at Navy Pier recently. Over 400 animal-loving humans with 100 four-legged companions converged on this gorgeous venue, reported to be the world’s largest
Melissa and Michael Canning.
rooftop bar, to raise funds for this beloved nonprofit. Co-chaired by Vasoula Rehkson and Anna Simon, the event netted over $400,000. It was a gorgeous night that offered spectacular views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. Outstanding silent auction
Alison Fogarty, Sean Fogarty, Teresa Bernue, Bill Jacobs.
prizes included tickets for four to see soccer legend Lionel Messi in his first game at Soldier Field; a package of rare bourbons curated by Binny’s Beverage Depot; and tickets to performances by John Legend and Carrie Underwood. Returning emcees,
Co-emcee Jake Hamilton with his rescue dog Daenerys.
Lisa Dent (of WGN radio) and Jake Hamilton (of Fox-32) helped PAWS co-founder Paula Fasseas present an adoptable dogs showcase. Two of the cuties found their forever homes that night. Paula shared, “We’re all here
Kristina and Emilia Augustyniak.
because we love animals. Most of these dogs come from Animal Care and Control. For years we kept getting better and better with our spay/neuter program and the euthanasia rate has just plummeted over the years. However, over this year and last year, the rate is starting to go up, which is very sad and alarming. This is happening because, since COVID, there has
Renata and Bob Block with their rescue dog.
been just so much disarray in people’s lives. Many people are having to give up their pets and our Animal Care and Control is inundated every day. We are working very hard to grow our foster programs and to ramp up our adoption programs. We really need to continue doing more and more spay/neuter. Most clinics closed, it’s hard to get vet
Howard Tullman and Chuck Jordan.
appointments, a lot of the small rescues have closed too. It’s very, very sad. So, we’re focusing our energy on Animal Care and Control. We’re doing less transport from Oklahoma and all those wonderful places
that have relied on us, but we must focus on Chicago. It’s number one. The economy and inflation have really had an impact on the lives of these sweet, voiceless animals.” During the event, guests enjoyed illustrations by artist KristineSteiner, a dinner buffet and dancing. Canine counterparts enjoyed their own dinner buffets from Merrick Pet Care and a doggie spa. Brook Jay won an exciting package to a private benefit with actor Will Ferrell and his celebrity friends. Congrats to PAWS, that to date, has facilitated over 90,000 adoptions!!!
Thanks to the Navy Seal Foundation for the opportunity to interview Captain Chris Cassidy, a Navy Seal and NASA astronaut. He’s the first Seal/Astronaut after Captain Will Shepherd, who was part of the first
Captain Chris Cassidy.
crew on the International Space Station. Cassidy was honored with two Bronze Stars and went into space three times, also serving on the Space Station. During a lighthearted moment, he became the first astronaut to take a selfie in space. The photo went viral in 2017. Today, he is a spokesperson and advocate for many nonprofits, including the Navy Seal Foundation. Below is an excerpt from our Q&A: What's was one of your most awe-inspiring moments in space? I think opening the hatch on my first spacewalk and seeing Earth below, you know,
Captain Cassidy was a big hit with everyone at the event.
just outside, holding on with one hand, seeing Earth go by at five miles a second. And, yeah, that was what probably took my breath away; What was your scariest moment? “We had a spacewalk where my buddy and I were out there, and his spacesuit malfunctioned and there was water leaking inside his helmet and we had to hurry up and get back in. That was probably the scariest moment.”; With your unique perspective of the cosmos, do you think there's life on other planets? “I think that the universe is so giant, somewhere out there, there's life. We just don't know. I don't believe it's in our solar system, but in my opinion, it’s naive to think that it couldn't exist anywhere in the universe.”; What do you think about the civilians in space program and what advice would you give to those
Beautiful setting, beautiful day to hear from Captain Cassidy.
planning to go? “So, it's more complicated than just
Captain Cassidy's viral space selfie.
buying a ticket and sitting in row 15, seat C. You know there's risk to it, but I think it's the success of the commercial companies right now that are driving that risk down somewhat. But there's always a possibility that some piece of equipment won't work the way it's supposed to on that given day and so, understanding those risks, understanding what you're getting into, and why we
A patriotic welcome on the North Shore.
train so intently, it’s not for the good day when everything goes by the plan, but it's for when things start breaking that you can save yourself, save the equipment, keep the thing alive, and your crew mates alive. So just have an appreciation for that and take the training seriously, because it's more than just an enjoyable ride. There's a lot to it.”; How did your training as a Navy SEAL help you as an astronaut? “The military does an amazing job, SEAL teams specifically, of preparing somebody to, in simple terms, walk, chew gum, talk on the radio, and make decisions all at the same time. You're dealing with a dynamic environment. Stuff in front of you is changing. You've got to talk on the radio, communicate that to somebody else, so that you have coordinated effort in that mission. All of that translates exactly to being an effective astronaut. So, I definitely
We hope to see you at the Navy Seal Foundation's "Evening of Tribute" on Sept. 13.
had some advantage with that training under my belt when I got there, but the NASA training is really good, and everybody gets up to that speed eventually.” The afternoon soiree included a Q&A with about 25 guests at the home of Muneer Satter and Kristen Hertel Satter. Invitees enjoyed mingling with Cassidy, taking photos, and a lavish lunch buffet before Cassidy answered further questions and shared his history in a delightful pavilion on the grounds that was situated in front of an infinity pool with a spectacular lake view in the background. (Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 13, when the Navy Seal Foundation hosts its 12th signature fundraiser, “Midwest Evening of Tribute,” at Navy Pier’s AON Grand Ballroom. All details here.) ______________________________________________________________________
Frank Family Vineyards representative Julie Larsen.
The 26th Annual Union League Boys & Girls Clubshosted its annual Wine Dinner fundraiser at the Union League Club of Chicago. The event, co-chaired by Stacy Fleming and David Torres, featured vintage wine tastings and pairings hosted by Calistoga, California
Wine Dinner Co-Chairs David Torres and Stacy Fleming.
winery Frank Family Vineyards and a multi-course meal. Julie Larsen from Frank Family Vineyards, was the keynote speaker. For 104 years, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs have been serving youth in neighborhoods with the highest hardship
David Torres, Julie Larsen, Stacy Fleming, Mary Ann Mahon Huels, Alexandra Nicholson, Thomas E. Payne.
index in Chicago; providing quality programming centered on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. Today, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs serve over 15,000 youth
ULBGC President & CEO Mary Ann Mahon Huels
members at 21 well-equipped and professionally staffed inner-city Clubs, that bring effective after-school programming to youth in communities including Humboldt Park, Pilsen, West Town, Bucktown, South Lawndale and Englewood as well as to youth in the Juvenile Detention Center and at an overnight camp in Kenosha County Wisconsin. Note: The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is a distinct non-profit separate from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, although both are charters of the national Boys & Girls Clubs organization. For more information, please click here.
Mis' Lois Gates and Anne Mills with Elite Presenting Sponsors The Grateful Family of Tricia McGee.
Misericordia Heart of Mercy hosted its 26thArtist in All event at the Art Institute’s Modern Wing July 19. Over 1000 supporters came out in force to bid on 240+ pieces of artwork created by talented Misericordia resident artists
David and Susan Axelrod with daughter Lauren.
with the assistance of dedicated staff and volunteers. Even the invite’s artwork graphics were created by residents in the Art Program where participants use paint and other media to experience the joy that self-expression brings. It was a great night for this amazing nonprofit that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Congrats to Sister Rosemary, Lois Gates and their amazing team. Love this organization so much. (For more info, click here!)
"The Who's Tommy," the most successful production in Goodman Theatre history!
Goodman Theatre’s Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director/CEO Roche Schulfer announced that the Goodman’s must-see musical The Who’s Tommy smashed box office records, officially becoming the highest-grossing production in the 98-year history of Chicago’s largest not-for-profit theater company. Tony Award-winning original creators Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff joined the company on stage for a bow as the “amazing journey” concluded following a matinee in Chicago on Sunday, Aug 6. The unanimously acclaimed, twice-extended production “went clean” in the 856-seat Albert Theatre selling a record number of single tickets and selling out 36 performances. Audiences attending hailed from all 50 United States, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as 21 other countries as far away as New Zealand, with many patrons attending multiple performances.
The Who's Tommy's original creators Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff, join the company on closing night to celebrate the Goodman Theatre's most successful production in history. (Photo by Liz Lauren)
Chance the Rapper at the WNDR Museum. (Photo by Meiling Jin)
Celebrated global hip-hop artist Chance the Rapper hosted the launch of The Chance Store, a special retail pop-up at WNDR Museum Chicago (1130 W. Monroe), in celebration of his sold-out Acid Rap Ten
Mr. & Mrs.- Jobba Maxey and Val Warner.
Year Anniversary Show at the United Center with a VIP Party on Aug. 16, at the Museum. The place was packed outside and inside with Chance fans who, with the proper wristband, could make their way upstairs to a VIP party. There, a specialty drink was being served along with Harold's (fried) Chicken wings, fries
Ryan Chiaverini and friend Zack.
and ice cream. The room was split into two sides….one was the VVIP party where Chance hung out. He played Bucket Ball with friends, enjoyed a great DJ and mingled. Eventually, he made his way to the VIP section where he smiled for selfies and danced the night away with fans. Guests could also shop in the brand new The Chance Store (that only ran through 8/20) and featured a
limited supply of exclusive merchandise, apparel and
Amy Maniscalho, Chance and Meiling Jin.
accessories including the 10th anniversary edition of the Acid Rap album on vinyl and CD, a collaboration can with Lyrical Lemonade and Chance’s iconic “3” hats in Acid Rap colorways. Besides his hometown of Chicago, Chance brought his Anniversary Show to New York’s
Nick Harkin and Jerry Nunn.
Barclays Center. On Sept. 21, it will go to the Los Angeles’ Kia Forum. Limited tickets remain at chanceraps.com. To give fans a glimpse into the upcoming tour, Chance dropped the “Acid Rap Tour Rehearsal: That’s Love” video. Soundtracked to Acid Rap single “That’s Love,” the video features nostalgic footage of Chance performing back in the day interwoven with Acid Rap 10 Year Anniversary tour rehearsal scenes. Watch the video here.
Chance and friends at WNDR Museum (photo by Meiling Jin).
Co-chairs Sophie Goodwillie and Maribeth McElveen, Founders' Board President Maureen Seaman, Dinner on the Bluff Co-chairs Alex Murphy and Annie Barlow.
The Founders' Board of Lurie Children’s hosted its 63rd Annual Dinner on the Bluff and Pro-Am Golf Championship, presented by Wintrust, on June 25 and June 26,
Devin and Jacinta Staples.
chaired by Sophie Goodwillie and Maribeth McElveen. Over 500 guests gathered at Shoreacres in Lake Bluff to enjoy cocktails, such as “The Birdie” provided by Blue Ash Farm, and dinner overlooking Lake Michigan. The evening highlighted Mental Health Access FORE Every Child and featured patient speaker Leo sharing his personal story about the
Maureen Seaman, Founders' Board President.
positive impact of access to mental health care, alongside his doctor, Dr. John Parkhurst. The evening was chaired Annie Barlow and Alex Murphy and included a dynamic group of supporters. The following day, the Pro Am Golf Championship brought together 275 golfers and pros for a day of competitive play and crowned the 63rd Annual Pro Am’s newest winners of the June Seaman Trophy: Kevin Stineman, Dan Barlow, Dan Waters and Steve Moffat – joined by pro Gideon Traub. Together the events raised over $1.8M in support of the Founders’ Board $5.5M commitment to Lurie Children’s Hospital and the Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities. (Robin Subar Photography)
Conor Gee, being installed as the youngest District Governor for Rotary International.
So much love and congrats to friend Conor Gee! He just became the youngest District Governor for Rotary International in the Chicagoland area! His installation was held aboard a boat cruise at Navy Pier. He also threw out the first pitch at the White Sox game recently! He has a long history of doing good in the community and this is yet another step in the right direction. Congrats dear Conor!
And, on another wonderful note of success, the beloved
Congrats Tanner Branson!
Tanner Branson has just been elevated to Head of Sale of the Luxury Handbag & Couture Department at Hindman. In his new role, he will oversee the department’s four-yearly auctions, liaise with clients nationwide in evaluating their couture, and assist with appraisals, He will support
Leah Chavie, skincare expert and a "Dynamic Woman."
Hindman Chicago’s headquarters and regional offices around the country. Congrats dear Tanner!
Leah Chavie, fabulous aesthetician and owner of Leah Chavie Skincare, has been included in this year’s CS Magazine’s “Dynamic Women” feature. Her skills and winning personality have made her a much loved figure in Chicago. Her new Barbie Facials are something you shouldn’t miss either! (leahchavie.com)
As many of you know, Chuck and I lost our two rescue Chihuahuas a few years ago. Mickey and Rooney were the lights of our lives, and we miss them still. After our loss, I
Penny "The Pencil Neck" Jordan.
was sure we would get another pupper in time. I just didn’t realize it would take so long or the intricacies that would be involved. After being pup-less for so long, I guess we became a little bit spoiled. No more worrying if we were out too long or if the water bowls weren’t
Penny has found her forever home.
filled or if the pee pads needed changing. No walks in the park (which now takes courage in the Gold Coast) nor concerns about shots and nail trims either. BUT, this also meant no bundles of energy racing around the house making you smile. No lap cuddles or fetches or loving eyes staring back at you 24 hours of the day. In other words, we were lonely. All the cons did not compare to the multitude of pros so we began a search. Luckily, Susanna Wickham (PAWS Chicago CEO) came to the rescue, introducing us to little Amaya, now “Penny the Pencil Neck.” (To read the full story, click here).
There are so many events I'm looking forward to and I hope you didn't miss my latest coverage of "Dance for Life" in my new Crain's Chicago Business column! (Read/subscribe here!) Here are some other events to put on your calendar: Gold Coast Greek Fest (Sept. 15-17); Adler Planetarium's "Celestial Ball" (Sept. 9); Navy Seal Foundation "Midwest Evening of Tribute" on Sept. 13; Ingalls Foundation Diana Ross concert/dinner on Sept. 9; Navy Pier ExPIERience Gala on Sept. 14; Costume Council Men's Fashion Awards, Sept. 14; Music of the Baroque season opener/concerts begins Sept. 17; Gold Coast Fashion Show, Sept. 21/22; Chicago Gourmet begins Sept. 21; National Multiple Sclerosis Society "Dinner of Champions" Sept. 21; FLAIR Chicago Lighthouseis on Sept. 22; Symphony Ball on Sept. 23; Lyric Opera Gala with Audra McDonald on Oct. 6; Eversight 25th anniversary Gala on Oct. 13; Love Purse "Bootleggers" Gala on Oct. 5; Service Club of Chicago gala, "An Evening of A Million Dreams" on Nov. 3; Chicago Police Foundation, "True Blue Event," on Nov. 4; and The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's "The Wings to Cure" gala on Nov. 11. ______________________________________________________________________
Terrace 16- spectacular views from Trump Hotel Chicago.
With Labor Day on the horizon, have you planned your activities? If not, consider summer’s farewell on the spectacular rooftop patio at Terrace 16 on Sunday, Sept.
Terrace 16 patio- perfect for Labor Day and any day.
3 (from noon- 7pm) with grilling, cocktails and fireworks! This ultimate grilling experience will feature an interactive chef's experience, outdoor grill station, extensive craft cocktail program, and more! Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks display from their iconic patio. Indulge in the Grilling Experience at just $50 per person, featuring a delectable array of dishes including a BBQ Brisket Sandwich, Cheddar Cheeseburger, Footlong Hotdog, Garden Pasta Salad, Balsamic Marinated Portobello Mushroom, and Grilled Asparagus. With the expertise of Executive Sous Chef Derek Feldmeier, your downtown Chicago dining experience at Trump Hotel Chicago will be as unforgettable as the views! Book here!
Metropolitan Family Services DuPage celebrated its 22nd annual DuPage Gala to highlight the organization’s holistic approach to serving families and individuals. The event took place in Woodridge at Bobak’s Signature Events, with sports anchor Dionne Miller serving as emcee. The evening included impact speeches from families who have benefited from MFS’s Supporting Housing Initiative for Families in Transition program and also recognized its Roger K. Johnson Leadership Awardees — Mary Ann and Paul Travers, Mike Skarr and Paul Pyrcik – for their commitment to Metropolitan and Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan DuPage. The gala was co-chaired by Metropolitan DuPage Board Members Dan McGowan and Emily Shupe. MFS is a nonprofit that provides support and family services to strengthen communities.
I hope you enjoy this latest episode of “Candid Candace – The Podcast!” I interview award-winning Chef Art Smith. His cooking skills and down-to-earth personality have connected him with Lady Gaga, the Dalai Lama and five presidents, to name a few. And, as impressive as his kitchen skills are, his life as a humanitarian is equally inspiring. He shares what’s next on his to-do list, what makes his fried chicken so damn special, and some valuable advice Johnny Carson’s pianist told him. My producer/co-host John St. Augustine and I also chat about a VERY big book launch, Chance the Rapper’s private party, some of my favorite events and so much more! So, grab a piece of Hummingbird Cake, find an easy chair, and enjoy the show! (LISTEN HERE) AND, I hope you will join us on Wednesday, Aug. 30 for Art's "Rainbow at Reunion" party! Details here!
I hope you're enjoying my "Ask Candid Candace" advice column in Chicago Star! I love fielding all your interesting questions and I hope you like my answers. (See latest edition here) I try to add a little humor along with some common sense and I hope it's working! Special thanks to Randolph Street Market for sponsoring this column too! Don't miss Sally's next big markets coming Sept. 23/24 and the Holiday Market Nov. 18/19. (All RSM details here)
Julie Hightower (Daisie Foundation) and Kathleen Sarpy.
Pretty Powerful 5.0, an event co-founded by Kathleen Sarpy (founder and CEO of Agency H5, a boutique integrated marketing and PR firm) and moi, attracted nearly 100 powerful ladies who are responsible for lifting up our communities through their philanthropic work. Collectively, the women at the Tribune Tower Residences party have raised millions of dollars for Chicago’s nonprofit community. The Residences were the perfect venue for our 5th annual event. Following a toast from Kathleen, invitees enjoyed mingling on the magnificent Crown Terrace, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and taking guided tours of the spectacular residences and
Tribune Tower Residences- Spectacular!
amenities (thanks to the Tribune Tower Residences sales team- Jeanne Martini, Karen Randich Stone, Natalie LaFontaine and Shannon Gibson-Giampa.) Desirée Rogers gifted the attendees with fabulous lipsticks from her successful Fashion Fair cosmetic line sold at Sephora. It was a wonderful night of networking and conversation in a beautiful setting. This event is a thank-you to the fabulous and kind-hearted women who passionately work to promote the work of so many important and impact-driven nonprofits and philanthropic events each year – there certainly are so many worthy causes to highlight that are crucial to supporting the people of Chicago and beyond. A toast to all and thanks to those who participated and, until next year, please continue your wonderful work and we will see you at Pretty Powerful 6.0!
I hope this edition is better late than never! There's so much I want to share with you and I never want to miss anything of importance so sometimes it takes a while to collect all the fun news. I hope I've covered things here that make you smile. As always, please send any events/news my way! Until then, keep the energy positive and your calendars ready. Cheers to unforgettable moments ahead and thanks for sticking with me! 🙂
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. If this doesn't make you smile, nothing will……
We are all suffering in one way or another during these strange times. People in the restaurant industry, the arts, design and the nonprofit communities are the ones that first come to mind for me. I guess because I have dear friends in all of these categories and know of so many who have lost their jobs and businesses or who are struggling. I'm thrilled the restaurants and bars have partially reopened but we still have a long way to go. The nonprofits, to me, are the backbone of our city, maybe because I've worked with so many of them for so long. They help prop up the most vulnerable and even our homeless pets find care, comfort and protection through them. Since 2008, I've been writing about and promoting charities and events that are close to my heart. I want to put them in the spotlight now, so I quizzed some of my favorites to find out what they were planning for 2021. Please take note. Some have a whole calendar filled with a variety of fundraisers while others have nothing planned. It's a new normal that some are having difficulty navigating. However, I've included as many as I could and I hope you will mark your calendars for their events as well as share them across your social media. I've been asked on many occasions how people can get involved and which charities I would recommend. All of the ones listed below are well vetted and wonderful. And, if you don't have money to donate, there are many other ways to become involved, including volunteerism. Websites are included for each organization, so reach out to the one/ones that touch your heart. And, if your nonprofit's events aren't listed below, be sure to send them to Candace@CandidCandace.com for the next edition. I'm determined to make all of your voices heard moving into the New Year. (Events/nonprofits are mentioned in no particular order below, and they all need our help).
Chicago Children’s Choir, a nonprofit that inspires and unites youth from diverse backgrounds to become global ambassadors through music, will present its free virtual Black History Month concert, Preserving and Persevering, on Thursday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m.
Chicago Children's Choir.
CT. Exploring how the power of Black music has been
Chicago Children's Choir, live onstage on national TV.
the cultural key in both preserving African traditions in America and in helping millions persevere in the face of racial injustice, the concert is curated by CCC’s Director of African Diasporic Music and Studies Lonnie Norwood and includes performances from the Voice of Chicago, Dimension and Neighborhood Choir singers. And on Saturday, Sept. 26, the CCC will present "Reverberations" (formerly Red Jacket Optional Gala). Kudos also to conductor/pianist/singer Josephine Lee and her CCC for their recent live appearance on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. They performed alongside Chance the Rapper, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, Kofi Lost, Peter CottonTale and Cynthia Erivo. (Details here!)
One Tail at a Time executive director Heather Owen and friend.
One Tail at a Time'sHoundstooth Ball is set for Friday, November 19. This wonderful animal rescue saves homeless dogs and cats with their goal, this year, being 2,250 rescues. They will also focus on growing their outreach and support programs in big ways for Chicago pet families struggling to make ends meet. Please check out the details here!
The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs are celebrating its 102nd year of mentoring the next generation to become leaders in their communities, particularly those who are underserved. Despite Covid, this nonprofit wants you to know that they are still offering a safe and spacious home to its Club's youth for e-learning. Save the date for February 25 for their annual (virtual) Youth of the Year event! (Details here!)
PAWS Chicago, the largest No Kill animal shelter in the Midwest, has several events
PAWS Chicago, adoptable cats and dogs.
planned. At this point, they're not sure if the summer Beach Party will be virtual or a smaller, in-person event at the Castaways but I will keep you posted. In the meantime, mark these events on your calendar! Virtual Trivia Night, Thursday, February 25 ($5 minimum donation to participate); Virtual Mutt Madness, fundraising/adoption event in which 32 dogs and 32 cats work their way through a 6 round tourney ala an NCAA tourney, March 11-18; Inaugural Golf Outing, Monday, June 14, at the Westmoreland Country Club in Winnetka; PAWS Chicago Beach Party, August (date TBD); PAWS Chicago 5K/Walk/Run, September (date TBD); PAWS 20th annual Fur Ball, November 12 (location TBD); Team PAWS (fall). (Check website here for more event info and to register).
Each year, the Illinois Holocaust Museum hosts one of the largest fundraisers in Chicago and welcomes over 2,000 civic, business, and community leaders in support of the Museum’s educational outreach. On March 10, 2021, former NBA Star & Activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will be the keynote speaker of the 2021 Humanitarian Awards Dinner. During the virtual and in-person event, the Humanitarian Award will be presented to Exelon Corporation, accepted by CEO Chris Crane and Scott Swanson, president of PNC Bank, Illinois, for their demonstrated commitment to educate current and future generations about the Holocaust and the dangers of hatred, prejudice, and indifference. Zev and Shifra Karkomi will be honored posthumously with the Survivor Legacy Award to recognize their vision and support in creating the Karkomi Holocaust Exhibition – a cornerstone of the Museum. (Dinner details here.) For the Women's Leadership Committee's signature event, SOIRÉE, I'm thrilled to be returning as host! This annual event typically brings together guests for a spirited evening filled with socializing, silent auction bidding, and entertainment. It raises funds to support the Museum’s mission to combat hatred, prejudice, and indifference and to inspire visitors to become Upstanders who speak out for what’s right – turning powerful lessons of history into positive actions today. The 2021 event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 1, and will likely be a hybrid of in-person and virtual. I hope you can join us! (Details here!) Two new, BIG exhibitions are coming up too, “Mandela: Struggle for Freedom" (Feb. 2021 – Sept. 2021) and "Rise Up: Stonewall and the LGBTQ Rights Movement" (Oct. 2021 – May 2022).
The Service Club's All-In Zoom meeting with over 100 members celebrating their record-breaking fundraising success.
The Service Club of Chicago certainly didn't let a pandemic slow down its fundraising efforts! They broke two records this year — in their 131 year history! The SC held its most profitable Gala ever — and also raised the most revenue overall to distribute through its Philanthropic Grant Program, an all-time high of $ 621,632.28! For the coming year, they're still going full steam ahead! First, the Spring Hat Luncheon, which is hopefully scheduled for May (in person, hybrid or maybe a combo); Day on the Terrace will be the first Monday in August at the Peninsula; the Gala will be held at the Four Seasons on November 5 and their Holiday Luncheon will be back in the beautiful dining room of the University Club on December 1. As president Sherrill Bodine stated, "We will never surrender our mission to help make Chicago a better place in which to live." (Donate/learn more, here!)
Hyde Park Art Center, the non-profit hub for contemporary art located on Chicago’s South Side, will present socially-distant exhibitions throughout the coming year that highlight Chicago’s diverse art scene featuring emerging and established artists. While all time-frames are subject to change, visual arts fans can expect the following: FEBRUARY will see the opening of a trio of exhibitions: Ground Floor, a biennial that features some of Chicago’s most promising emerging talent from area MFA (Master of Fine Arts) graduate programs; Cuts & Beats, a solo multi-media exhibition by Cecil McDonald, Jr.; and Next Window, Please!, showcasing young adult artists from the Art Center’s Teen Program. THIS SPRING, artist Gabriel Villa translates the language of Mexican traditions and the personal urban American experience into charged intimate narratives in The Metamorphosis of Gabriel Villa while artist Faheem Majeed creates a new installation that focuses on the history of the historic South Side Community Art Center, in Faheem Majeed: Planting and Maintaining a Perennial Garden IV. SUMMER will bring Future Fossils: SUM, the final major sculpture installation in a trilogy of work by Lan Tuazon. And note that every month on the first Sunday, the Hyde Park Art Center hosts Center Sundays, a free public program introducing ongoing offerings at the Art Center for all ages, interests and skill levels, which is now being held virtually but soon will return to in-person. For more information on all, click here!
Some members of the Merit School of Music performing.
Merit School of Music, for over 40 years, has been dedicated to helping young people transform their lives by providing equal access to a high-quality music education, with nearly 70 percent of students benefiting from need-based financial aid and low-cost instrument rental. Merit will host its 42nd annual benefit Gala, honoring Lyric Opera of Chicago Music Director and Principal Conductor Sir Andrew Davis as he concludes his two-decade-long Lyric tenure. Davis will receive Merit’s Alice S. Pfaelzer Award for Distinguished Service to the Arts at the virtual Gala celebration in mid-May (date TBC). Plus, Merit will be offering both online and in-person options for its summer line-up of camps, classes, electives and workshops. Merit School of Music’s online summer camps and classes help students, from early childhood through high school, to stay social, creative, and engaged with their instrument from the comfort of home or in a socially-distanced small group environment. Summer registration opens in May; more information can be found here.
Misericordia, that fabulous place that provides love, caring and comfort, since 1921, for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is hosting a few fun events this year! I'm super excited to support this amazing nonprofit via video for their Women's Auxiliary – All You Need is Love event with a wine theme happening on February 12. And don't miss the Women's League – Heart of Gold, Night at the Races event with a Kentucky Derby theme happening on February 26. Love Sister Rosemary and Lois!
Some of the inspiring members of Giordano Dance Chicago.
Giordano Dance Chicago, one of the premiere jazz dance companies in the world, has some exciting highlights for 2021. The Nan Giordano Certification Program® continues virtually in March with dance educators from around the globe. And on June 13-18, the Giordano Workshop goes virtual! GDC will bring its high energy technique and repertoire into people’s homes and studios around the world. Artistic director Nan Giordano said, "While operations have slowed due to COVID-19, we have taken the opportunity to engage in a strategic planning process to strengthen our organization and ensure we emerge from this time better than ever!" And I know they will! Follow them along here!
The Joffrey Ballet, like many other dance companies, have had to cancel performances due to Covid. Luckily, they have a deep well of material to choose from as well as the creativity and artistic talent to create something new and suitable for the times. Their main goal is to stay afloat financially, which they have managed to do so far through significant budget cuts and a $12 million fundraising
The Joffrey Ballet rehearses Bolero.
campaign. They plan to return to the Lyric Opera House this fall with a full 2021–22 season. Their strategy, for now, is to create short, studio performances and footage that artistic director Ashley Wheater says “pulls back the curtain” on the rehearsals and staging like they did with their recent online "Nutcracker" production. Originally created for its spring gala, "Bolero" is the company's latest offering, a 16-minute one-act production that is ideal for online viewers who, like me, have short attention spans. Here's to more Joffrey greatness in the coming year! (Follow their event and production schedule here)
Congo Square Theatre Company, one of the nation’s premier African American theatres (they worked with a young playwright named Chadwick Boseman before he was a household name), has pivoted to digital programming for their 21st season. Coming up is their three-day arts celebration Festival on the Square from Feb. 4-6, culminating with the 2021 Vision Benefit honoring founding board chair Les Coney and the company’s first director, Ron OJ Parson. Ongoing is the theater’s new digital sketch comedy show Hit ‘Em on the Blackside, currently available for free viewing on their website with new episodes starting in March. More information here!
On January 31, the Chicago Dance History Project will host a Marathon Interview with the world's leaders in dance–7 hours of interviews with amazing dance people from all over the world (Twyla Tharp, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Robert Battle, Lou Conte, Ashley Wheater and many, many more). Info and sign up here.
The Music Institute’s 90th Anniversary Gala is scheduled Monday, May 10 starting at 6 p.m. in a virtual format with some live components (pending pandemic restrictions) for a limited number of guests at Nichols Concert Hall. The Dushkin Award, which for 35 years has been bestowed upon some of the world’s most accomplished musicians, will be presented to Maestro Zubin Mehta. (There will also be a Cultural Visionary Award and a Richard D. Coburn Award for Teaching Excellence—recipients TBD.) Proceeds go toward scholarships and financial assistance for music instruction through the Music Institute’s Community Music School, which leads people toward a lifelong engagement with music by providing widely accessible resources for high-quality music teaching, performing, and service activities. (All info here!)
Chicago Dancers United is making plans for the 30th anniversary of its annual fundraiser Dance for Life, which supports The Dancers’ Fund assisting those with diagnosed critical health needs (expanded this past year to cover routine medical expenses due to the pandemic). The hope is for a live, outdoor event some time in August, more details to come soon! (Check their website here for upcoming plans!)
The Jackson Chance Foundation is hoping you'll join them for the Owl Ride for Jackson, a two-day 111-mile round-trip bike ride from Chicago to Valparaiso, IN. taking off from Chicago’s lakefront on Saturday, Aug. 21 through Sunday, Aug. 22 . The route serves up breathtaking views
Jackson Chance Foundation founders Carrie and Terry Meghie.
and scenic bike trails to Valparaiso with bikers riding 55.5 miles on day one. Enjoy a complimentary dinner and an evening in Valpo and then another 55.5 miles day 2 back to Chicago. With a mix of rolling terrain and a few punchy climbs it offers something for cyclists of all abilities. (A one-day option is also available.) All riders are invited to enjoy a post-ride celebration on Sunday including dinner, treats and massages! Proceeds from Owl Ride for Jackson benefit JCF’s NICU Transportation Program which partners with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Northwestern Prentice Women’s Hospital and Rush University Children’s Hospital to provide complimentary parking passes for families with critically ill babies in the NICU. Challenge yourself or enjoy the ride while impacting so many families when they need it most. Register today here!
Chicagoan Lauren Schrero is co-founder and executive director of The Nora Project. When Lauren’s daughter was born disabled, she became inspired to create a place for disability studies in every child’s education and launched The Nora Project to help create a more inclusive and accepting world. (Watch Lauren’s TED Talk about the program, here) Next month, The Nora Project is celebrating its 4th annual Friendship February, a charitable effort that challenges community members to commit to 28 days of friendship, kindness and inclusion. As we head into nearly 12 months of pandemic lockdown, it’s a great time to spread friendship and kindness as many continue to face hardship, emotional distress and COVID-19 fatigue. To see a complete list of Friendship February Challenges and get a sense of what this campaign is all about, see video below. Beyond Friendship February, The Nora Project supports local schools and communities year-round and brings students of all abilities together to teach empathy, demystify disability and promote inclusive beliefs and practices in school and beyond. Friendship February is an extension of these programs, and part of the campaign proceeds will provide grants to partner schools to make inclusion improvements like adding ramps, diversifying library books, and making all kids feel more included and welcome. (All info here!)
Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago Area and Northwest Indiana (GCNWI) and Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) kicked off the 2021 Girl Scout Cookie season nationally, during a challenging time when many Girl Scouts are selling in creative, socially distant, and contact-free ways to keep themselves and their customers safe. Even in light of Covid, girls are adapting their sales methods to share the joy of Girl Scout Cookies through the largest girl-led entrepreneurship program—including taking contact-free pickup and delivery orders through a new national collaboration with Grubhub. Additionally, GCNWI has made online cookie ordering available so consumers who don’t know a Girl Scout can still purchase cookies from a local troop for direct shipment to their homes or donation to local organizations. If you don't know a Girl Scout to order from, click here!
Since 1974, Ronald McDonald House Charities have been providing a home away from home and resources to families who travel far from home for the medical care their child needs. To date, RMHC around the world have provided 2.5 million overnight stays for families with nearly 700 programs in 65+ countries and regions. In the Chicago region, they learned a lot in 2020, and have adapted their lineup of special events to be more inclusive by incorporating both in-person and virtual components to each experience. Mark your calendars for the following: Annual Golf Classic, Wed., June 9; Annual Gala, Saturday, Aug. 7; Sporting Clays Tournament, September 24/25 and Paint the Night, Sunday, Feb. 7. (Find further details and buy tickets here!)
The Chicago History Museum reopens to the public on March 4, the city's birthday! AND its fundraising arm, the Costume Council of the CHM, will present a zoom presentation on Thursday, February 25, with one of my favorite designers, Norma Kamali. Norma will discuss her new book, "Norma Kamali: I Am Invincible" and registrants will receive a gift box that includes a signed copy of the book, her Normalife Skinline Kit and more! Costume Council Patron Members and "Head to Toe Annual Appeal Donors" of $50 or more will receive a complimentary invitation to the Zoom lecture. All proceeds benefit the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. (Tickets/more details here!)
The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation and the Lynn Sage Foundation have merged to become the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation. With 35 years of success, this old/new org will continue to fight breast cancer by funding research to find cures and raising awareness about prevention and screening. Click here to for event updates. I was told their uber-popular Fall Benefit Luncheon will probably be virtual again this year but they had great success with this in 2020 (the event was hosted by Hoda), so I can't wait to hear of all the fun they have planned this year! (I'll share the details when they're available!)
A Silver Lining Foundationhas an exciting line-up of events for 2021! For spring, they are planning a celeb-filled virtual fundraiser sometime in May. Details are still being ironed out. In the summer "Tasting Stars" will return on June 19, benefiting the programs and services provided by this
Dr. Sandy Goldberg and Greg Hines.
wonderful nonprofit in its efforts to ensure everyone can afford a mammogram and have access to all the services. For fall, the 17th annual "A Sterling Event" will take place on Saturday, October 2. This is the Foundation's largest fundraiser and it's being planned as a hybrid experience featuring live and remote access to what will most certainly be a memorable evening. Proceeds from all of these events will provide life-saving breast health testing to uninsured, underinsured and, most recently, to those who have lost their health insurance due to the pandemic. I hope you can join us for ALL! (Details here!) (The charity was recently spotlighted by The Ford Motor Company in its "Built For" campaign for doing "meaningful and essential work throughout America.")
The Big Shoulders Fund has been serving the communities since 1986, supporting Catholic schools in the neediest areas of inner-city Chicago. Through scholarship support and a variety of programs, BSF provides children in need access to a quality, values-based education. Reopening school buildings (75 inner-city schools) safely in August was a huge task, and teachers and principals were nimble and innovative in determining how best they could continue to meet the needs of their students in the COVID-19 era. Now in 2021, their work continues. Upcoming fundraising events will further these efforts by providing much needed scholarship and operational support. Big Shoulders is continuing to plan for its upcoming events and will host them in some capacity, whether in person, hybrid or virtual as safety guidelines advise. The large fundraisers for the year will include: Humanitarian Award Dinner, Friday, May 21, 6 pm; Golf Classic, Monday, August 9, 8:30 am, Check-in and 11 am shotgun start. Olympia Fields Country Club;Big Shoulders Fund Ball, Friday, October 1. And, in the coming months, they will also be hosting a number of other events such as: Scholar Events/Activities, Virtual Student Activities, Programming–CapitalOne Coding, Junior League Art Club, How to be an Entrepreneur; Virtual events that will include special speakers, dance classes, field trips to museums, and on January 29, Chicago Sky’sCheyenne Parker is speaking to elementary and high school students in a fun special assembly; Volunteers from companies like KPMG,Houlihan Lokey, etc. reading books, doing career panels and playing jeopardy learning games with students virtually; Scholar events/opportunities; Scholar tours and learning sessions with the Chicago History Museum; High School Scholar Symposium where students learn about trending careers, applying to college and for financial aid, what it means to be a scholar athlete and so much more in a fun virtual and video based event; They will continue to have guest speakers (Chris Gardner is scheduled) speak to students on a variety of topics from careers to life skills; Big Shoulders Fund Supporter Activities; Networking speaker events included one for the kick-off to their Black History Month Book Club where next generation board members and high school scholars read and discussed “Strides Toward Freedom, The Montgomery Story" which was moderated by State Representative Curtis Tarver. (For more info, click here!)
Established in 1985, WINGS is one of the biggest domestic violence programs in the Midwest. This nonprofit provides a pathway to independence for people whose lives have been disrupted by domestic violence by providing housing, integrated services, education and advocacy. It has big plans for the coming year that include these events and programs: WINGS Metro 5-Year Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, February 11, 5:30pm–Join a virtual cocktail hour when WINGS will share stories and videos to highlight the history and impact of WINGS Metro which, when it opened, was the first new shelter for victims of domestic violence to open in Chicago in more than 10 years. Since it opened, WINGS Metro has provided 59,919 nights of critical emergency shelter and served 815 domestic violence survivors, including 410 children. (Spotlighting a special thank you to WINGS Board member Amy Rule and Rahm Emanual, who as Mayor, led the plan to establish WINGS Metro, and donated $25,000 to mark this anniversary.) Register here for FREE . ($2,500+ donors will receive a cocktail party kit to enjoy during this virtual celebration); WINGS Sports Luncheon, June 2021, Exact date TBD, Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago, 11:00am to 1:30pm—A Conversation with Chicago’s sports team owners George McCaskey , Michael Reinsdorf , Tom Ricketts and Rocky Wirtz, Event co-chairs Trish Rooney and Karen Z. Gray-Krehbiel, Sponsorship levels: Presenting $100,000; Premier $50,000; Lead $25,000; Gold $15,000; Silver;$10,000, Bronze $5,000’ Tickets: TBD , FYI: This benefit originally was scheduled for March 16, 2020; all sponsorships and ticket purchases made for that fundraiser are honored for this benefit luncheon. WINGS 21st Annual Purple Tie Ball, Saturday, October 2, The Westin Hotel in Itasca, 6:00 PM to midnight , Traditionally held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Event co-chairs: Melissa Canning and Debby Jackson, Sponsorship levels: Presenting $50,000; Lead $25,000; Gold $10,000; Silver $5,000; Angel $2,500; Tickets: $250 per person. 18th Annual Sweet Home Chicago, Sunday, December 12, Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago, 10:00am to 1:00pm, Honorary chairs: Rita and John Canning, Event co-chairs: KatherineBanich, Meghan Norton and Maria Shideler, Sponsorship levels: Title $100,000; Presenting $50,000; Lead $25,000; Gingerbread $15,000; Gum Drop $12,000; Candy Cane $6,000. (ALL info HERE!)
Eversight Illinois' mission is to restore sight and prevent blindness through the healing power of donation, transplantation and research. In 1985, the Illinois Eye-Bank and Michigan Eye-Bank formed a partnership—one that would earn a reputation for clinical excellence made possible by some of the finest medical directors, staff and board members in the eye banking field. The success of the organization attracted affiliations with other regional eye banks like the BroMenn-Watson Gailey Eye-Bank, Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey, Cleveland Eye Bank and the Connecticut Eye Bank, forming one of the largest networks of eye banks in the U.S. In 2015, the network
Sip and Sup for Sight, Feb. 11.
became known as Eversight, all working together as a unified operation to deliver the highest quality services to surgeons and their patients and to continue to grow our impact around the world. Their fundraising efforts continue this year with their signature fundraiser, the Gift of Sight Celebration, which will be held at the Peninsula in the fall. The event will honor Justine Fedak as its Woman of Vision and Dr. Parag Majmudar as its Gift of Sight honoree. I'm proud to return as co-host with Michael Caputo. I hope you can join us for Fantasea, Mystery Masquerade! (Watch for details here!)
Sips and Sweets for Sight, a virtual tasting on Feb. 11, 7-8 pm.
Since 1906, The Chicago Lighthouse has been a leader in comprehensive vision care and social services that improve the quality of life for patients, clients and their families. Even through these difficult times, they have not stopped delivering for those who depend on them. In 2020, I was proud to co-host their virtual FLAIR Fashion Show with Tracey DiBuono. They are planning the next one, which they hope to have in-person with a video component included (details to follow). As “stay-at-home” orders were being issued in March, their IT and management teams worked around-the-clock securing licenses and assistive technology equipment so that many of their employees with disabilities could continue working from
Chicago Lighthouse president/CEO Dr. Janet Szlyk.
home. Birth-to-Three Program Senior Director Marla Garstka personally appealed to state officials for the ability to provide remote therapies. Though physically separated, their community rallied online too, donating more than $40,000 on #GivingTuesdayNow, guaranteeing their clients would have assistance when they needed it most. To help some of the youngest members of their community, art therapy kits were packed and distributed to Preschool and Children’s Development Center students. When one of their employees, who is visually impaired, needed a safe place to live, Human Resources Senior Vice President Jeanette Bonzani helped secure a new apartment for her and her family. As some staff members who are blind remained homebound, their colleagues went to grocery stores and pharmacies for necessities. This is what they are, a “Community of Care” and this type of giving will continue into 2021 promises Lighthouse president/CEO Dr. Janet Szlyk. (To learn more, click here!)
Gilda's Club Chicago is a place where men, women and children whose lives have been impacted by cancer, as well as their families and friends, can feel they are part of a welcoming community of support. Even throughout Covid, they figured out ways to maintain their level of support and are now offering over 150 virtual programs monthly, such as cancer support groups, lectures, healthy lifestyle activities and more. At various times during the year, GCC hosts special events. Please watch for these event details on their virtual calendar: Gilda's Night In hosted by the Associate Board; Annual Awards Dinner; Red DoorSociety recognition event for donors who have contributed $1,000 or more each year; Gilda’s Club Untapped. Enjoy an evening of craft beers, wines and a raffle for some great prizes; Team Gilda raises money and awareness for GCC as an official charity partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Shamrock Shuffle, RAM Racing's Cinco de Miler and other races. (For more info on programming and events, click here) ________________________________________________________________________
After School Matters students.
After School Matters is a non-profit organization that provides life-changing after-school and summer program opportunities to 20,000 Chicago high school teens each year. They continue to design and deliver project-based, apprenticeship programs in a variety of areas, including the arts, communications and leadership, sports and STEM. They develop public-private partnerships including those with CPS, Chicago Park District, the Chicago Public Library and others to further support their youth. In 2020, they hosted their popular After School Matters Gala virtually (see video below) and are planning more fundraising opportunities for 2021. (Details to follow here)
Since 2016, SocialWorks, founded by Grammy-award-winning musician and humanitarian Chance the Rapper, has been empowering youth through the arts, education and civic engagement. The nonprofit has created 5 initiatives for youth to help them learn and act on their passions. Programming focuses on education, mental health, homelessness and performing and literary arts. Through the initiatives, OpenMike, Warmest Winter, Kids of the Kingdom, The New Chance: Arts & Literature Fund and My State of Mind, SocialWorks hopes to inspire creativity, build dreams, and advocate for youth success in all its forms. (For more information on these initiatives, click here.) Lately, school districts around the nation have been struggling to create remote education plans for diverse learners. To help fill the need for these students, SocialWorks and Altitude Chicago have created an education pod. Students within the SocialWorks' e-pods follow the school's curriculum within a controlled CDC compliant atmosphere and receive lunch, supervision, specialized tutoring and socialization exercises throughout the school day. SocialWorks and Altitude Chicago hope to support 32 students and teachers and teacher aides this coming school year. (Classes are scheduled to start Monday, February 1, 2021.)SocialWorks and Altitude Chicago's e-pod was inspired by
A SocialWorks learning program.
a local parent, Danielle Giles, whose son struggled with remote learning. Danielle researched ways to help her son and realized that wealthier communities created their own pods and micro-schools. Frustrated with the lack of similar support in her area, Danielle made a GoFundMe page to help support diverse learners like her son, who is deaf. After connecting with Tori Niestrom, a local educator, and SocialWorks, the Diverse Learner Pod Program was born.(Qualified teachers and aides are needed to make this programming possible and are encouraged to apply here. Pod Leaders and Aides must have experience with sign language or children with disabilities, be CPR certified and a DCFS mandated reporter. Parents and students can register here. Interested groups must have 3-8 diverse learners of the same grade and school to register for a pod. All students must individually register to be considered.) To support the pod, reach out to info@socialworkschi.com or donate here.
The ARK Chicago, a nonprofit that annually supports over 4,000 area Jews facing adversity, announced the newest members of its leadership team as it enters its 50th year of service in 2021: Marna Goldwin as CEO, Steven Blonder as president of the Board of Directors and Michael Garlin as Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer. The ARK continues to commit itself to serving the growing and changing needs of the Chicagoland Jewish community, focusing on providing high-quality, free care and support in a safe and dignified setting, while expanding efforts to move its programs forward in all ways. With more than 2,000 volunteers serving in a number of different departments, it has become an integral part of the Chicagoland community. For more information about The ARK, its services and its expansion, please click here. Watch the story of The Ark Chicago below….
Chicago Scholars is entering its 25th Anniversary year in 2021 and celebrating continued growth in creating college access and mentorship for Chicago’s first-generation and under-resourced high school students! They will share more exciting events in honor of this milestone year in the coming months. They also welcomed Jeffery Beckham Jr. as interim CEO in December – Jeff was previously the VP of Partnerships for the organization.
Chicago Lights’ "Gala of Hope at Home" is virtually scheduled for Friday, March 5 at 7pm. This signature annual event benefits the youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights and the community support efforts of the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. The event is free to register with any donations happily accepted. (Sign up here!)
Devices 4 the Disabled was honored to start the year as the recipient of the Chicago Bear’s 2020 Community All-Pros initiative. This generous grant brings awareness to a critical need of medical equipment that is often not met for Chicagoans and gives D4D the ability to ensure people with disabilities have access to the medical devices they need. (Learn more here!)
This year, The Ruth Page Center for the Arts is celebrating 50 years of dance education and artistic support! In 1971, having already established herself as an internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and arts patron, Ruth Page created an arts center and school of dance where artistic excellence could thrive. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts stands today as an example of how far her legacy has grown in 50 years. The Center has become home to a vibrant Artists In-Residence program and a comprehensive theater performance space. It consistently provides performance and professional opportunities to the next generation of dance artists and world-class training with a strong focus on international partnerships. The arts organizations who work and create there, and the artists who train and perform there, together are truly representative of Ruth Page’s iconic work, "Expanding Universe," created in collaboration with artist Isamu Noguchi. Any donations will go towards supporting dance teachers, accompanists, and subsidized instruction for students in need, in addition to artistic development programs such as the Keystone Dance Academy, Artists In-Residence, Subsidized Theater and Studio Rental, International Dance Experience, and The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Training Company. The mission of The Ruth Page Center for the Arts is to “Be a platform for developing great artists and connecting them with audiences and community.” To celebrate its 50th, the Center is hoping to raise $50,000, one thousand dollars for each year. To support this remarkable nonprofit, click here!
HCRF co-founder Eleni Bousis, Dr. Leonidas Platanias and friends at a Wings to Cure Gala.
Nearly half of all men and one-third of women in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetime. The mission of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation is to discover, develop and implement effective new treatments for patients with cancer by advancing groundbreaking research. The Foundation's diverse network of donors helps provide the philanthropic support to fund interdisciplinary research teams at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, empowering world-class investigators to join forces and address the most urgent questions in the fields of cancer biology and oncology in innovative ways. By investing in "out of the box" research, with an emphasis on translational cancer research, the HCRF will accelerate and heighten the impact of scientific discoveries. For the coming year, they will host their 6th "The Wings to Cure Gala" on Saturday, November 6. at the Hilton Chicago, (For more info, click here.)
Young at Heart Pet Rescue–It all began in 2005 with a group of people who loved animals. But in particular, the older animals: Dogs who had a little grey around the muzzle, but whose hearts were young and whose love knew no bounds. Cats who lounged around, pretending to be hard of hearing, until the whir of the can-opener proved otherwise. These animals had once been loved, cherished and part of a family until one day they were no longer wanted. Passed by for younger dogs and cats, these pets are often just what an adopter is looking for – quiet, calm, housebroken, good with kids, affectionate and easily acclimated to a new home. Yet, they sit and wait for someone to love them, until many times, it is too late. In April of 2005, Young At Heart was formed to aid in the rescue and re-homing of older dogs and cats in the Chicagoland area. Since that fateful day, hundreds of senior pets have been rescued and adopted into loving homes. And, in September 2019, Young at Heart opened Chicagoland's first adoption center and sanctuary just for senior dogs and cats., a place where age is just a number, and where the care and comfort of those with greyer muzzles and stiffer joints than their younger counterparts come first and foremost. Executive director Dawn Kemper tells me they have a lot planned
Senior dog and cat resting at YAH, waiting for new homes.
for 2021 but are being careful. First up, this exciting PELOTON BIKE+ RAFFLE. Only 500 tickets will be sold, $50 each. Raffle ends on 1/31/21! Click here for rules and ticket purchase; VALENTINE'S AT-HOME WINE & CHOCOLATE PAIRING KITS For Valentine's Day, Young at Heart offering an At-Home Wine & Chocolate Pairing Kits; SUMMER VIBES MUTT MOSEY fundraiser walk from May 15 – August 15th, 2021. Teams must commit to and raise $500 or more to qualify. Prizes awarded for top fundraising teams. Registration opens in March 2021; OUTDOOR YOGA IN PEACHES' MEADOW classes offered monthly May – September. Ticket is required. Limited number of participants per class, and all Covid safety measures will be followed. Registration opens April 2021. (To find more details for these fun events, click here!)
Since 1916, the Chicago Urban League, through collaborative community, corporate and civic relationships, has helped people find jobs, secure affordable housing, enhance their educational experiences, and grow their businesses. One of the oldest and largest affiliates of the National Urban League, they promote strong, sustainable communities through advocacy, innovation, and collaborative community, corporate and civic relationships. They work to achieve equity for Black families and communities through social and economic empowerment. Throughout 2020 and now into 2021, they create programming, initiatives and events to help them achieve their mission. During the Covid crisis, they administered more than $6 mil in grants to more than 1,000 small businesses and hosted a virtual Golden Fellowship Exchange, partnering with Black owned restaurants which delivered nearly 500 meals across Chicago. Follow them here to learn more!
Imerman Angels’ was founded in 2003 by Jonny Imerman, a testicular cancer survivor. The nonprofit was created on the belief that no one should have to face cancer alone. They provide 24/7, 365, one-on-one FREE cancer support to anyone who needs it around the world. Their mission is to provide comfort and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, pre-vivors and caregivers through a personalized, one-on-one connection with someone who has been there. Through its unique matching process, Imerman Angels partners anyone, any age, any gender, anywhere and any cancer type seeking support with someone just like them – a “Mentor Angel”. (A Mentor Angel is a cancer survivor or caregiver who, most importantly, has faced the same type of cancer.) Throughout a typical year, they offer a variety of friend-raising opportunities. (Watch this website for their event news coming in 2021)
Chicago House is a social service organization that supports individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS and the broader LGBTQ community with housing, health, and employment support. Founded in 1985 during the height of the AIDS crisis, this nonprofit initially served as a housing resource, and in most cases a hospice, for those affected. Today, the organization continues to empower the people they serve by supporting advancements in medicine and being a leader in finding housing opportunities. Moving into the New Year, they will continue their many support programs and are planning for future fundraisers. (Follow their progress here!)
Cinema/Chicago, the presenting organization of the Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF was founded in 1964 by Michael Kutza), is a year-round non-profit cultural and educational organization dedicated to fostering better communication between people of diverse cultures through the art of film and the moving image. They are not letting Covid slow
Michael Kutza, CIFF founder. (Photo by Tim Klein)
down their world class delivery of film–For instance, CineYouth, their four-day youth film festival showcasing short films from filmmakers 22 years old and under, will be virtual and include free screenings, filmmaker talks, and master classes in May 2021 and will be free on the Festival's streaming platform. Their annual free Summer Screenings program, usually held at the Chicago Cultural Center, will also be virtual and run May-September, again on the Festival's streaming platform. The 57th Chicago International Film Festival (with over 100 films on offer!) will take place October 13-24 as a hybrid event with both in-person (theater and drive-in) and virtual screenings and events. Monthly virtual film screenings and filmmaker Q&As through Cinema/Chicago's Member Film Series and Virtual Cinema will continue throughout the year. (For all the details, click here!)
Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation was founded in late 1992 by Kathleen Casey, CEO/President. The foundation is named in memory of her eight-year-old son, Barrett “Bear” Krupa, who died after a courageous five and a half year battle with Wilms Tumor, a pediatric cancer. Bear Necessities operates two programs, Bear Hugs and Bear Discoveries. While the Foundation is funding cutting-edge research to end pediatric cancer, it’s also providing for the immediate needs of the children and families battling the disease. Throughout the year, they host a number of fundraising events, including the Bear Tie Ball, A Walk for the Bear, Little Black Dress Luncheon, Young Professional Board and third party events. (Watch their website here for events coming this year and see video below!)
The leading emerging designer runway show "Emerge! Fashion Show," established to be a catalyst and provide a platform for designers, will celebrate its 10th anniversary during New York Fashion Week on February 16 with a virtual fashion event. The show themed “A Decade of Diversity on the Runway,” will feature top emerging designers from the United States as well as Africa. The virtual event will stream on GFNTV.com and on http://www.Emergerunwaynyc.com at 6:00PM CST/7:00PM EST. GFNTV is a premiere online video network, which also streams live on various platforms including ROKU & Apple TV. The virtual fashion event will be hosted by Claire Sulmers of Fashion Bomb Daily, with special guest presenters Andre’ Leon Talley (former Vogue
Dionne Williams, Emerge! fashion show creator.
contributor) and Fern Mallis (creator of New York Fashion Week). The virtual event will also feature congratulatory remarks from fashion and style notables, a performance by Yanna Cello, a look back
Super model Pat Cleveland, a past Emerge honoree.
over the 10 year history of Emerge! with special clips including a design talk with London-based designer Ozwald Boateng, urban street wear designer Karl Kani and iconic model Pat Cleveland. Each season, EMERGE! presents the coveted Fashion Innovator Award. Past recipients have included Audrey Smaltz (president of the Ground Crew, presented by Harriette Cole); Constance C.R. White (editor-in-chief Essence Magazine presented by Tracy Reese); Andre’ Leon Talley (former contributing editor of Vogue, presented by Diane Von Furstenberg); fashion icon Mikki Taylor, presented by style expert Philip Bloch); legendary model Pat Cleveland
Diane Von Furstenberg and Andre Leon Talley with Dionne Williams at a past event.
(presented by equally legendary fashion designer Stephen
Burrows) and Fern Mallis (presented by Bibu Mohapatra). This year’s Fashion Innovator Award Honoree is celebrity stylist and “image architect” Law Roach. Law will be recognized for his impact
Guest presenter Fern Mallis, a past honoree and creator of NYFW.
in shaping the global fashion industry. A host of emerging designers will also unveil their newest collections: Terri Stevens of funkinbeautiful Designs (Chicago), Scalo Designs (Johannesberg), Jesu’ Segun London , Orla Couture (Lagos, Nigeria), Haus of L.A. (Los Angeles, Chicago). The runway will be “reimagined” and feature the designs in creative vignettes. “I am so excited about the upcoming anniversary show,” says Dionne Williams, creator and producer of Emerge! Fashion Show, “When I created Emerge 10 years ago my purpose was to highlight the creativity and art that designers create for the runway. I am always in awe of the talent and gifts that designers bring to light.” (To register for free access to the virtual event, click here or visit http://www.GFNTV.com the day of the show.)
Renowned Irish violinist Patricia Treacy, who performed at the Inauguration.
Beauty AND talent! Congrats to renowned Irish violinist Patricia
Being fitted for a glam gown at Dimatra's Bridal Couture with Ismini Walsh.
Treacy, who performed during the Presidential Inauguration at the request of President Joe Biden. Patricia performed for him many times when he was VP and, for this important occasion, played a rare $4 million dollar Stradivari violin (courtesy of Bein & Co.) during the inaugural mass. (Only 244 of these rare violins are known to exist). She said in her beautiful Irish brogue, "I'm going to be sick to the gills having to give it up." It was touch and go whether or not she would be playing live or virtually due to security concerns, but in the end, she appeared live onstage at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. She wore a stunning blue dress (the official color of Ireland!) by Dimitra's Bridal Couture (1009 N. Rush St.) and diamond earrings from Martin Katz Jewelers (Beverly Hills). Patricia lives in Ireland, County Louth, but travels frequently around the world performing. She recently filmed a documentary about Ireland, with actor Liam Neeson doing the voiceover, that she hopes will be unveiled at the White House sometime in March. See her rehearsal video below at Chicago's Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church (produced by One CityFilms). Kudos to this very accomplished Irish beauty!
With Chicago Star Media editor/publisher Elaine Hyde.
I am SO excited with my new affiliation as a columnist with Chicago Star Media! This small group of community-centric newspapers is determined to make an impact in our communities and so am I. Think of them as your love letter to Chicago! No politics, only news you can use, feel-good stuff, people you should know and so much more.
With CSM's Elaine Hyde and Jay Kopp.
Many of you have already subscribed (I know who you are and am working my way through thank-you emails now) and some of you didn't know this opportunity existed! Well, it's just now being offered so you will be the first onboard. They/we offer both digital editions and hard copies as well as a free newsletter. Prices are very reasonable for all the great content you'll be receiving (like my columns–wink, wink– including a new "Ask
Zoom meeting with some of the Chicago Star Media team.
Candid Candace" advice column coming soon!!) Other fabulous, dedicated writers include Nuria Mathog (also associate editor), Angela Gagnon, Jon Cohn and Jacqueline Davis. Jay Kopp is in charge of marketing and advertising and Elaine Hyde, the editor/publisher (if you would like to send letters to the editor, please write to her here: info@chicagostarmedia.com. And here are the subscription options: $4.99 monthly; $78 for 2 years; $49 for one year or digital for $27 annually. And, please start planning your questions for my advice column now too–I'll answer anything– fashion, romance, what to do, where to go, etc., WHATEVER! Send all questions here, CandidCandace@ChicagoStarMedia.com and maybe yours will be selected. Make sure to include your name and title too! All details to subscribe are here AND don't forget to sign up for the free newsletter too: https://bit.ly/35QoN28 (I would be so grateful!)
I love seeing all of the creativity and fun surrounding the
Bernie in Charles Ifergan's chair.
meme-generator that lets you place Bernie Sanders anywhere in the world. I've seen images of him on The Dating Game, in Stephen King's movie "The Shining," in bed with one of the Golden Girls, with his arms wrapped around Janet Jackson, sitting in stylist Charles Ifergan's chair getting a haircut, inside the Oscar Meyer Weiner Mobile, chatting with Svengoolie and so many others. I even saw him
Tobey Time Crochet Bernie doll.
in front of my childhood home in Dupo, Ill! LOL! Nick Sawhney, the creator of the meme-generator says over 9 million people used the online tool and, that due to costs, had to be scrapped. And now, Tobey Time Crochet has created the most believable tiny knitted version of him
Bernie with a Golden Girl.
seated wearing his now-iconic mittens that is up for auction. The current bid is $14,900! The meticulously crafted doll includes hair, glasses, the blue surgical mask and the mittens and measures approximately 9". A reporter asked Bernie about his mittens and he replied, "Fashion? Every American needs their $2000 check!" Bernie is also using his image to
Double Bernie in The Shining.
raise money for charity, turning the events from "fun to good." He told CNN, "We're going to be selling sweaters, T-shirts and more around the country with all of the money raised, I expect a couple of million dollars, going to programs like Meals on Wheels that feed low-income senior citizens." Tobey Time Crochet has made these Bernie patterns available but notes they're not for beginners. (And, if interested in bidding on the Bernie doll auction, click here!)
Wisconsin's Door County will welcome a brand new hotel in the village of Sister Bay in late May. The Dorr Hotel will feature 47 contemporary rooms and suites, a two-story beamed lobby with fireplace, a welcoming lobby bar, a large outdoor courtyard with fire pit and lawn games and a guest experience team who will design Door County touring itineraries. The Dorr will be the area's first newly built hotel in almost 20 years! Inspired by the area's Scandinavian heritage, the four-story cobalt blue building will embody "coziness and contentment" according to owner Christopher Schmeltz. Rooms range from $175 to $440 per night. For further info, call 844.944.0354 or click here.
Ms. Anita Harris turns 102! (Photo by her goddaughter Jonquil Byers.)
Happy birthday, with love, to Miss Anita Harris who turned 102 on January 25! She's as spry as can be with a beautiful full head of blond hair that she tends to on a regular basis at her favorite, local beauty salon. She loves fashion, watching "Jeopardy" and "Family Feud" and listening to smooth jazz while enjoying a mimosa now and then. She lives by herself in the iconic
Ms Anita Harris and her own beautiful blond hair!
complex known as Hilliard Homes and enjoys cooking healthy meals, including gourmet food. She's an upbeat, positive person who has learned to adjust to difficulties imposed by Covid–including having to attend her Salem Lutheran Church services via Zoom. She was born in 1919 at the old St. Luke's Hospital and lived for 30 years in the Jackson Park neighborhood. She is married and the mother of one daughter (husband and daughter both now deceased). Ms. Anita was a housewife for many years before going to work for the Department of Welfare and finally, the Board of Education where she spent 17 years. She said, "Some of my family were enslaved. I can't believe we're going through this kind of turmoil again. This is all so sad." She said she was "so happy to have lived long enough to see a Black president and now a Black woman as VP." She donates to charities, including those dedicated to cancer survivors, the homeless and pets. God Bless you and keep you Miss Anita! Love your inspiring story!
Nick Pullia with his late, much loved Moluccan cockatoo Elliott.
Many of you know and love dear Nick Pullia, he of the always upbeat demeanor and scintillating wit, who also happens to be the director of communications for the venerable Ravinia Festival. Chuck and I have been privileged to have spent time with him throughout the years and the one thing that always stood out was his
One of the many tributes Nick has received in honor of Elliott.
larger-than-life love for all animals. He owned many himself, including big, happy dogs as well as birds. (Between you and me, I think his heart stretched out a little bigger when he was with his avian friends). Recently, he suffered horrible heartbreak when he unexpectedly lost one of his best friends, a Moluccan cockatoo named Elliott. "She" had been his constant companion
The late, great Baby Elliott Pullia.
since she was 4 months old and they recently had celebrated 30 wonderful, fun-filled years together. Shortly after this milestone celebration, Elliott passed away unexpectedly when she suffered massive trauma caused by a prolapse while trying to pass an egg. The heartbreak is unimaginable and our prayers and love go out to Nick and the rest of his furry/feathery family. Nick had made arrangements for Elliott's care after HE had passed with A Refuge for Saving the Wildlife, a parrot rescue that helps homeless birds find new families.(Their motto is "don't buy, don't breed, please adopt a bird in need.") Being the wonderful pet parent that he is, he had, of course, thought of everything. Sadly, life had other plans. RIP dear Baby Ell and, if you would like to support this wonderful bird wildlife refuge (and Nick), please donate here.
Special thanks to MB Luxury Group's Maggie Baczkowski and Curt Rose, the wonderful co-hosts of a new show
With co-hosts Maggie Baczkowski and Curt Rose.
called "Switching Gears." And, even though they're both luxury real estate specialists, this show is about all the things that make Chicago fun! I was proud to be the first interview on their debut show that also included Shaun Rajah, Joseph Szymczak and DC Crenshaw. (Watch segment here, my part runs from 21:25 to 34:06, but it's ALL good!)
Interviewing Larry King with Sugar Rautbord enroute to a Cubs game.
RIP dear Larry King. I was so sorry to hear of his recent passing. I've always admired this talk show legend and was beyond thrilled to be offered a one-on-one interview with him in August of 2011 when
he traveled to Wrigley Field to throw out the first
Pals Sugar Rautbord and Larry King.
pitch at the Cubs/Cardinals game. Larry was in town being feted by author/socialite, Sugar Rautbord. She was a great pal of his and hosted a party at her house following the game for his book "Truth Be Told." (She also arranged this opportunity that I will never forget.) Larry was
Larry King after throwing out first pitch at a Cubs/Cardinals game in 2011.
witty, charming and funny and the interview lasted the entire route from the Park Hyatt to the ballpark! He talked nonstop and was the perfect interview. I was spellbound hearing his amusing stories with world leaders like Vladimir Putin who called him at the barber shop (due to his mistrust of cell phones) or the time Saddam Hussein called him at a restaurant (he told the waiter to "put him on hold.") or the time former President Clinton called during his impeachment proceedings and asked "who's winning?" With his far reaching knowledge and humor, it's no surprise that he became a much loved celebrity himself. Read the full story here! (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
That's it for now, my love letter to some of Chicago's beloved nonprofits. As I mentioned in my opening, if I missed your organization, please send me your event updates for 2021 and I'll be happy to include it in the next edition. As we move into the New Year, let's hope it doesn't even remotely resemble the year past. I'm looking forward to celebrating and hugging as many people as possible and am excited to see what new opportunities this year brings for all of us. As Winston Churchill said, "If you're going through hell, keep going." And that's exactly what we're all going to do….
Plus: PAWS Chicago, down on the farm; Justin, Hailey & Chance hit the town; Adler's Celestial Ball; Chicago Lighthouse's virtual FLAIR fashion show; "Hope in Bloom" for Debi Lilly; Kathy's (FAB) Che Sguardo; Lookingglass Theatre Company's "Chicago Stories"; Porchlight Palooza; European flair for Maple & Ash; Eli's ARK Chicago (a VERY sweet treat!); Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic; Azeeza designs for BEYONCE!; BEST virtual event calendar right HERE!; The Voice's Katie Kadan to star at Holocaust Museum's SOIREE; DINOS in DUPAGE; Welcome Baby Luca; The Joffrey Ballet is "pulling back the curtain"; This & That; Cute videos and SOOO much more!
DOT co-chairs Tracey DiBuono, Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Jamie Thorsen.
There is a very good reason why The Service Club of Chicago has been around since 1890! Their survival instincts have been intact through the 1918 Spanish Flu, the Crash of '29 and two World Wars! This year, in the time of Covid,
SC president Sherrill Bodine (wearing Lauren Lein) and Andrea "Nou Nou" Antoniou, SC Auxiliary Board President, at Marchesa Watch Party.
they proved their mettle once again with a brilliant pivot from their always sold-out "Day on the Terrace" fashion show, held virtually this year on Monday, August 3. The event was co-chaired by SC members Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou, Tracey DiBuono and Jamie Thorsen,
Gibson's Watch Party hostess Sherry Lea Holson (L) and friends.
with DiBuono's ZZAZZ Productions producing the show. The taped, fashion show portion of the event took place socially distanced and masked at The Geraghty (thank you Tom Kehoe, BlackOak Productions and Kehoe Designs) on July 20 with just 28 models. Typically, this popular event is held at the Peninsula with over 75 models on the runway! This year's first look at fall fashion showcased designer looks from alice+olivia, Carlisle,
Tina Weller at her glam-filled Watch Party at her home in Hinsdale.
Contessa Bottega, Cram Fashion (menswear), Elda de la Rosa Couture, Max Mara at Bloomingdale's, Maximilian Furs at Bloomingdale's, Mira Couture, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, St. John Boutique, SYLWIA and Tom James. The live event portion featured
Michelle Baker, Jamie Thorsen, Melissa Babcock wearing Max Mara at Bloomingdale's.
"satellite remotes" from some local watch parties around town. SC president Sherrill Bodine hosted an event at Marchesa with Auxiliary Board president Andrea Antoniou, DOT Hat Luncheon co-chair Michelle Baker and friends. Tina Weller and her bevy of beautiful girlfriends (that included Maple &
Rose Kallas hosts Watch Party with cute friends in the Gold Coast.
Ash's Mary Lasky) gathered at her gorgeous home in Hinsdale (and also celebrated Tina's 50th birthday)! Sherry Lea Holson gathered a group of cute friends at Gibson's to watch, all dressed in safety-first PPE
Paula Borg, Felicia Winiecki and Sheree Valukas.
plastic face shields. Friends there included Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Paula Borg, Frances Renk and others. SC vice-president Myra Reilly hosted an elegant soiree at her Lake Forest home with last year's DOT honoree Marguerite Hark, Cheryl Coleman, Susan Regenstein, Susan Gohl, John Reilly (who has
Kathy O'Malley Piccone wears Elda de la Rosa. (Photo by John Reilly)
been such a big supporter of ALL SC events) and others. Heather Spyra also hosted a watch party with her good friend Peggy Klingenberg. In other parts of
Neiman Marcus' Wendy Krimins with SC vice-president Myra Reilly.
the city, Rose Kallas hosted a party that included Pam Capitanini, Peggy Martay, Susan Colletti, Dusty Stemer and others. Greg Hyder and Jim Smith hosted a darling DOT brunch at their new home in Irving Park with the men who modeled in the CRAM fashion segment including store owner Marc Engel and his partner Stephane Gonzalez, Craig Hogan and Rudy Zavala. Besides the exciting fashion, a highlight of the event was the surprise shout-outs from
CRAM models–Owner, Marc Engel, Scott Bobek, Greg Hyder, Shaun Rajah, Craig Hogan and Tom Kehoe. (Photo by John Reilly)
celebrities and local media stars. Lending their support in congratulatory videos were Jerry Springer ("Judge Jerry");
Alayna Crenshaw wearing Elda de la Rosa. (Photo by John Reilly)
Leslie Zemeckis (actress, author, award-winning documentarian and 1/2 of THE Hollywood Power Couple with husband/director Robert Zemeckis); Ryan Chiaverini (Windy City Live); Maria Pappas (Cook County Treasurer); Chef Art Smith and husband/artist Jesus Salgueiro;NBC Chicago co-hosts Cortney Hall and Matt Rodrigues; FabriceCalmels (former lead dancer The Joffrey Ballet); Israel Idonije (philanthropist and former Chicago Bear); LeeAnn Trotter (NBC-5 Entertainment Reporter); Sylvia Perez (Fox-32 news anchor); Melissa Forman (93.8 LITE FM's "Melissa Forman in the Morning"); Lisa Fielding (Newsradio 780 anchor/reporter); Zoraida Sambolin (WMAQ-TV news anchor); Molly Callinan (lead singer for Gary Sinise's Lt. Dan Band and all-girl cover band Catfight) and Chilli Pepper (world famous female impersonator, Baton Show Lounge star). Other congratulatory videos came from Maria Zec (GM Peninsula Chicago) and Lakesha and Jim Rose. Callinan ended the show belting out "Walking in Memphis" with DJ Akib playing dance
Mary Lasky and Sharyl Mackey.
music. The event raised over $70,000 for SC's Philanthropic Grant Program and already has
Bobbi Panter (wearing SYLWIA) and Annette Findling (wearing Elda de la Rosa).
other events lined up (no surprise here!), including its popular Hat Luncheon, this year themed "A White House Floral Affair" and, of course, going virtual on Thursday, Sept. 3; Auxiliary Board Bingo on Sept. 13; the "Phantom Gala" which will run from October 12-25 and the Holiday Luncheon scheduled for Friday, December 4. (All event details here). Congrats to all of these hard-working members and those who support them!
Even though the attendees were socially distanced and masked on the 35 acre farm, that didn't mean they weren't close in heart for animal welfare. PAWS Chicago hosted a "Summer Farm Party" on Saturday, August 1 for longtime supporters and donors. We were so happy to have a reason for a road trip so Chuck, Rooney and I happily drove to
Angie DeMars with our Rooney Rules.
LaPorte for some fun and philanthropy on the Fasseas Farm. The setting was breathtaking and so relaxing. Even lil' Rooney came alive with the fresh country air and the scents from the "doggie buffet"! One of the barns on the property had been transformed into a state-of-the-art "retreat space" for Level 3 dogs with "issues." There, they are gently rehabilitated so
PAWS founder Paula Fasseas with Suzanne LeMignot.
they can find their forever homes. The digs are so inviting. I can't imagine how happy those dogs must be living there. Upon arrival, smiling PAWS volunteers directed us to the fun. Everything was very spread out due to the Covid concerns but still easily accessible. I loved seeing the animals brought from "A Zoo to You." Chickens, goats, cows and sheep co-mingled peacefully while a little Shetland pony peeked
Susanna Homan, Chris Wickham and "kids."
around the corner, all saddled up and ready for kiddie rides. Live country music from Rendition filled the air along with one of PAWS' favorite DJs, Dan Holloway (Icon Entertainment). A delicious menu featured freshly made guacamole, salsa and chips; jumbo shrimp cocktail; grilled portabella burgers with carmelized
Nique Christensen, Bruce Haas, Phillip Emight and Angie DeMars.
onions on brioche buns from Hewn Bakery in Evanston; grilled 1/3 lb. beef burgers from LaPryor Farms in Ottawa, Illinois; grilled Butcher & Larder all-beef, grass-fed Wagyu hot dog; locally made peach and blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream, triple chocolate brownies and freshly sliced watermelon. A French green bean salad and Italian potato salad were served as sides. And even though there was a
Dirk Peterson and Michele Mistovich.
beautiful pool, sadly I didn't see anyone swimming. During a short program, longtime PAWS friend, country radio personality Lisa Dent, who owns several PAWS rescue dogs, served as emcee. Alexis and Paula Fasseas
Socially distanced remarks from emcee Lisa Dent, Paula Fasseas and auctioneer David Goodman.
(founders PAWS Chicago) spoke about ongoing rescue efforts and updates. Paula said, "Your continual support of PAWS Chicago, especially during this pandemic, is greatly appreciated. Funds raised through our Virtual Beach Party and this farm event are crucial to PAWS Chicago's ability to continue to care for and save homeless dogs and cats. Thank you for helping ensure that the Medical Center can continue to treat illnesses, that the Lincoln Park Adoption Center can continue to find loving homes for our animals, and
Alexis Fasseas introduces some cute PAWS dogs.
that our Community Outreach program can continue to serve needy pets and their people." A live auction was conducted by David Goodman that included a one-week stay at Meadow House, a luxurious 3-bed, 3-bath home on 30 acres; a one-week stay for 10 at a private 7500-sq-ft home in
Walter Jacobson and Kim Gleeson.
the Dominican Republic and a 6-night stay for 12 in a luxury mountain retreat in Breckenridge, Colorado. Farm party guests included Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas, Angie DeMars, Susanna Homan and Chris Wickham, Kim Gleeson, Walter Jacobson, Suzanne LeMignot, Claudia Tangman, Tom Hayes, Amy Halsted, Michele Mistovich, Dirk Peterson, Nique Christensen and many others. One of the sweetest touches was the take-home gift, farm fresh veggies in a bag!!! Oh, what a fine day! (And mark your calendars now for PAWS Chicago's 5K Walk/Run set for October 31! Details here!)
Chance the Rapper, Justin and Hailey Bieber at Beatrix.
Even with the crime and Covid, Chicago is still a celebrity magnet! Spotted around town were Justin and Hailey Bieber lunching and dining with our own
Justin's photo of his beautiful wife Hailey at RPM Seafood.
Chance the Rapper. The trio visited Beatrix on Wednesday, July 29 sitting outside on the patio around 12:30 pm. Hailey sipped on an Iced Matcha with Honey & Oat Milk (thought you needed to know this). They chatted and enjoyed the weather at the neighborhood restaurant and coffeehouse for about an hour and a half. After coffee at Beatrix, they went for dinner that same night at RPM Seafood, sitting outside on a private terrace overlooking the Chicago River. After they finished dinner, which included the restaurant's signature Seafood Tower, they enjoyed dessert, Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake. On their way out, they stopped to take photos with a few fans outside the restaurant. On Bieber's Insta page he said of the evening and of his wife, "the love of his life," "This is my view during date night. Wtf. I'm so blessed."
The Adler Planetarium will host a (virtual) Celestial Ball on Saturday, Sept. 12 with a pre-party beginning at 6 pm and the main event at 6:30 pm CST. Free on Adler's YouTube, $25 for access to Pre-Party via Zoom (main event will be streamed from Zoom to YouTube) This entirely online event will give you an exclusive first look at how the Adler experience is being reimagined for a digital age, with virtual exhibitions and innovative programming. Join them and find out what’s on the horizon for the next 90 years. Click here for all the info!
Mark your calendars NOW for The Chicago Lighthouse's Virtual Flair Fashion Show (produced by ZZAZZ Productions), Friday, Oct. 16 from 11 am -12:30 CST! Co-chaired by Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine, the event will give you a front row seat at new collections from top luxury brands and designers all while supporting life changing programs for children who are blind, visually impaired or disabled. As always, this year's event features an inclusive runway of
Hard-working, adorable event co-chairs Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine.
diverse models including Chicago's prominent women and business leaders, as well as employees of The Chicago Lighthouse, many with disabilities. Watch parties will be offered this year so you can enjoy the event with friends. There will also be an inspiring performance by
Gaelynn Lea will perform.
Gaelynn Lea Music, 2016 winner of NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest and internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and violinist who advocates for disability rights and accessibility in the arts. To help build the excitement leading up to the event, don’t miss out on Master Classes with FLAIR, which are included with VIP – All Access tickets ($175) or can be purchased individually. These classes will offer great inspiration and “how-to’s” to look and feel your best again. The silent auction is one that you won't want to miss, including everything from salon and fitness experiences to elegant jewelry. Buy your tickets now here! (100% of ticket price supports the Lighthouse's Children's Programs)
Debi Lilly, and friend, holding her "Hope in Bloom" bouquet.
Nobody does it like Debi Lilly, owner/founder of one of the TOP event planning companies, A Perfect Event. We all know she has the ultimate knack for beautifying and planning events but I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her floral arranging (and choosing) talents. Check out her new, gorgeous "Hope in Bloom" bouquet. With each purchase, meals will be donated to first responders in senior centers and hospitals from local restaurants coast to coast, as well as a donation to American Heart Association's rapid research antiviral accelerator to fight Covid-19! With 50 stems of farm fresh peach, orange and white blooms, this bursting bouquet features roses, spray roses, dianthus, snapdragons, dusty miller, hypericum berries and lush greens! Flowers and philanthropy, a winning match! Thanks so much Debi! (Item #VF1B8), $80, order here!
Happy 15th birthday to the love/light of our lives, Rooney
Rooney Rules Springfield!
Rules! He may be a little hard of hearing and a little wobbly on his feet, but his heart is still as big as all outdoors. Thank you PAWS Chicago for letting us adopt/snatch this little bundle of love from that fateful PAWS Development Board meeting….I knew once he got around to me that I would never let him go. Check out all the PAWS' dogs and cats available for adoption here!
Simply the best makeup place around, Che Sguardo (208 W.
Che Sguardo,208 W. Huron.
Huron). I've been a fan of this spot, that also offers skincare, lessons and more, for over 30 years and have been friends with the owner, Kathy Schmalen-Abbene, a former top model, for a long time too. She scours the globe for the latest and greatest in makeup and skincare and, believe me, you will find things here you've never seen before. Love her, love her store! Check her out!
Join Lookingglass Theatre Company for its Aug. 20 Chicago Stories initiative that will revisit a largely unknown piece of history that unfolded on July 24, 1915, in the heart of the City, the Eastland Disaster. On the evening of Thursday, August 20 at 7pm CT, you’re invited to a free online public watch party/fundraiser of the Company's acclaimed production of EASTLAND: AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL in support of the Theatre. After the show, join creative team members Andrew White and Andre Pluess for a post-show conversation. The event will be streamed on Lookingglass Theatre’s YouTube and Facebook pages. More information here!
Celebrate Porchlight Music Theatre's 25th Anniversary at PorchlightPalooza — Featuring Broadway legend and ICON Award recipient Joel Grey! An entertainment-packed, FREE three-episode online streaming event featuring all new performances and surprise appearances by your favorite musical theatre artists (including Bernadette Peters, Kristin Chenoweth, Raul Esparza, Josh Gad, Mandy Patinkin, Tonya Pinkins and Chita Rivera) dreamy raffle prizes and more! August 21–23, nightly at 7pm CDT. The three day virtual festival will culminate with an interview between legendary broadcaster Bill Kurtis and honoree Joel Grey!
Wow, a little bit of Europe in Chicago for Maple & Ash, 16 W. Maple! Their beautiful new patio recently opened AND with a new menu item, SUSHI! Kudos Mary and Jim Lasky and team! For res, call (312) 944-8888.
Thanks to NBC Chicago co-hosts Matt Rodriguez and Cortney
Sweet treat at Eli's Ark Chicago, 1843 W. North Ave.
Hall for introducing us to just the cutest ice cream place, Eli's Ark Chicago, at 1843 W. North Ave.! The talented and creative staff serve up the most adorable sweets for the young and young-at-heart! Well worth a visit!
Beyonce wearing AZEEZA!
Congrats to Azeeza Khan, one of Chicago's much loved designers who is truly making her mark in the design world. Her fashions can be found at the best high end stores AND she has now dressed Barbra Streisand AND Beyonce! Her colorful gowns can be seen in Bee's latest visual album, "Black Is King." Kudos Azeeza!
I'm very sad to be missing all of our deserving nonprofits' in-person fundraisers. At this point, I don't have a feel when they might return but I will continue to cover as many of their virtual events as I can HERE so please stay tuned. AND please send me any event info that you might be aware of too. For now, this is what I have on my calendar. 1) Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum "Dressing Barbie" on Saturday, August 15, 11 am; 2) Service Club of Chicago's "White House Floral Affair" (hat luncheon), Thursday, Sept, 3 11 am-1 pm; 3) Chicago Lighthouse's "Seeing What's Possible" gala, Sat., Sept. 12, 7-8 pm; 4) Boys & Girls Clubs LAWN BALL, Friday, Sept. 25, 8 pm; 5) JourneyCareAll Stars of Project Runway, Saturday, Sept. 26; 6) St. JudeFour Stars Restaurant Extravaganza, Tuesday, Sept. 29; 7) 1st Gen Scholarship Gala (benefiting Chicago State University), Friday, October 2, 7 pm; 8) WINGS Purple Tie Ball, Saturday, Oct. 3, 9) A Silver Lining Foundation Gala, Saturday, Oct. 3; 10) Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit, Thursday, October 22; 11) Big Shoulders Fund, "Reach for the Stars," Friday, October 23; 12) (STILL PLANNED LIVE) Victory Gardens' Theatre'sChicago Stories Gala (Four Seasons, Sat., Oct. 24); 13) (STILL PLANNED LIVE) Boys & Girls Clubs'Women's Board Ball, Sat., Nov. 7, Four Seasons Chicago.
Please mark your calendar's for this year's Illinois Holocaust Museum'sSOIRÉE, presented by its Women's Leadership Committee, on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 7 pm
With The Voice's Katie Kadan, who will bring the house down with her SOIREE performance! Don't miss it!
CST. I'm excited and honored to be hosting this virtual event that will include performances by The Voice finalist Katie Kadan, AMAZING surprise celebrity shout-outs, survivor stories and so much more. In preparation for this night, I took a tour of the Museum last week and was so moved by what I saw in that 65,000-square-foot space at 9603 Woods Drive in Skokie. The 3D interactive hologram of Survivors'
Great rehearsals for event at FROST Chicago.
stories was profoundly moving and created by the Museum, which is the first in the world to employ this technology in a permanent exhibition space. To create this interactive experience, 13 Survivors from around the world agreed to go through a rigorous interviewing process. Each of the participating Survivors spent several days in a Los Angeles studio, answering over 2,000 questions about their Holocaust experiences before the unblinking gaze of 50-plus cameras. The experience is interactive and you can ask all the Survivors questions about their lives. Take a look at FritzieFritzshall's story below and I hope you get a chance to visit the Museum soon AND join me for the virtual event on Sept. 2 (Event details here!)
Kevin O’Hara, Daniel Shakeshaft, Rorak Siko and Jeffrey Oostema played in the Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic.
Big congrats to the Big Shoulders Fund, an independent charitable organization that supports inner-city schools across the Chicagoland area, on its latest major fundraising effort, the 20th annual Golf Classic! This event, held at the Olympia Fields Country Club on August 3, raised nearly $600,000 and brought together more than 115 civic and corporate leaders. The funds raised supported the Friends of Big Shoulders
Giancarlo Turano II – Golf Classic co-chair.
Scholarship Fund, which provides critical tuition assistance to a portion of the nearly 20,000 students and families seeking access to a quality, values-based education at one of the 72 Big Shoulders Fund schools in Chicago. “The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted many of our students and families and the communities in which they live,” said Josh Hale, President/CEO of Big Shoulders Fund. “We’re overjoyed at the continued support we receive from a committed philanthropic community that believes in the mission of Big Shoulders Fund and sees bright futures for the students we serve. Now, more than ever, our students need our support to ensure they continue to have access to a high-quality academic experience and a supportive school community.”
Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru coming to DuPage County Fairgrounds.
DINOS IN DUPAGE! The Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru is coming to the DuPage County Fair Grounds, Aug 21 to Aug 30. Featuring over 80 life-size Dinosaurs, a 40-foot T-Rex, massive Triceratops, 30-foot tall Brontosaurus and many more. Enjoy all the prehistoric fun from the comfort and safety of your vehicle! I have our tix for Friday but they're going fast! Get yours here!
In lieu of a fall Luncheon, The Joffrey Ballet is thrilled to present a new virtual fundraising event, "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker." In November 2020, we’ll get a glimpse at The Nutcracker like never before with behind the scenes footage, interviews with Company Artists and members of the Artistic team, and delightful surprises to celebrate this beloved tradition. Guests can add to the magic in their own home by purchasing party packages with food, beverage, and merchandise. The program will be appealing to all ages, so that guests from age 2 to 92 can share an afternoon together to get into the holiday spirit! The event will be co-chaired by WB members Melinda Jakovich-Lagrange, Jessica Jecmen and Marcie Wright. The potential event date will be either November 7 or 8, and I'll share an update just as soon as this information is confirmed. (Check here for more info!)
With the world spinning at such a pace and Chicago being turned upside down, I always think of this quote by the English theologian and historian Thomas Fuller. "It is always darkest just before the dawn." I pray this is true because we are going through some of the darkest days I've ever experienced here in our beautiful city. Looters seem to be on every corner and the disrespect towards our police is at an all-time high. I am not a political person but I do have common sense and I think I know what's right and what's morally wrong. There is no excuse for all this crime. NONE. PERIOD. I hope these hard times will serve a positive purpose as a wake up call to our communities, government officials and citizens. Protesting for what you believe in is one thing but trashing a city is an entirely different matter and should NOT be allowed in any way, shape or form.
And while Rome is burning and Nero is fiddling, there IS some
Proud parents-Giancarlo Fonda and Samantha Amato.
good news! Love and huge congrats to friend Rhonda Sanderson, a first time glam-ma now that her daughter Samantha Amato and Giancarlo Fonda have welcomed a new baby boy into the world, Luca Herbert Fonda. He has arrived just when he's needed the most, brightening the lives of all who love him! Love and congrats to ALL!
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!
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!
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!
JHud mingles with crowd before her performance. (Photo by Melissa Forman)
It was one of the most successful gala benefit's in Ravinia's53 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!)
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
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.!)
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
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
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
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
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.
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!
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!
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)
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!)
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!
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!
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:
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!
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!
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!)
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!
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!
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!
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!
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'……
Hovet Dias of Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christine Griffith of Blk + Brwn Market, Ambar Campos of AIBI, Arabel Alva Rosales of Runway LatinX, Model Agency leads Jesse Abudayyeh (Select) and David Sanchez (10 MGMT), and Dani Alonso and his team from Bonhomme Hospitality. And of course lots of stylists, fashion photographers, retailers, and other industry members. I think this is such a great idea! Congrats to all, including Ian Gerard (The Curio co-founder) for this wonderful concept!
Thanks to the Navy Seal Foundation for the opportunity to interview Captain Chris Cassidy, a Navy Seal and NASA astronaut. He’s the first Seal/Astronaut after Captain Will Shepherd, who was part of the first
there, and his spacesuit malfunctioned and there was water leaking inside his helmet and we had to hurry up and get back in. That was probably the scariest moment.”; With your unique perspective of the cosmos, do you think there's life on other planets? “I think that the universe is so giant, somewhere out there, there's life. We just don't know. I don't believe it's in our solar system, but in my opinion, it’s naive to think that it couldn't exist anywhere in the universe.”; What do you think about the civilians in space program and what advice would you give to those
somebody to, in simple terms, walk, chew gum, talk on the radio, and make decisions all at the same time. You're dealing with a dynamic environment. Stuff in front of you is changing. You've got to talk on the radio, communicate that to somebody else, so that you have coordinated effort in that mission. All of that translates exactly to being an effective astronaut. So, I definitely
Chicago’s largest not-for-profit theater company. Tony Award-winning original creators Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff joined the company on stage for a bow as the “amazing journey” concluded following a matinee in Chicago on Sunday, Aug 6. The unanimously acclaimed, twice-extended production “went clean” in the 856-seat Albert Theatre selling a record number of single tickets and selling out 36 performances. Audiences attending hailed from all 50 United States, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as 21 other countries as far away as New Zealand, with many patrons attending multiple performances. 
There are so many events I'm looking forward to and I hope you didn't miss my latest coverage of "Dance for Life" in my new Crain's Chicago Business column! (Read/subscribe here!) Here are some other events to put 
on your calendar: Gold Coast Greek Fest (Sept. 15-17); Adler Planetarium's "Celestial Ball" (Sept. 9); Navy Seal Foundation "Midwest Evening of Tribute" on Sept. 13; Ingalls Foundation Diana Ross concert/dinner on Sept. 9; Navy Pier ExPIERience Gala on Sept. 14; Costume Council Men's Fashion Awards, Sept. 14; Music of the Baroque season opener/concerts begins Sept. 17; Gold Coast Fashion Show, Sept. 21/22; Chicago Gourmet begins Sept. 21; National Multiple Sclerosis Society "Dinner of Champions" Sept. 21; FLAIR Chicago Lighthouse is on Sept. 22; Symphony Ball on Sept. 23; Lyric Opera Gala with Audra McDonald on Oct. 6; Eversight 25th anniversary Gala on Oct. 13; Love Purse "Bootleggers" Gala on Oct. 5; Service Club of Chicago gala, "An Evening of A Million Dreams" on Nov. 3; Chicago Police Foundation, "True Blue Event," on Nov. 4; and The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's "The Wings to Cure" gala on Nov. 11. ______________________________________________________________________
serving as emcee. The evening included impact speeches from families who have benefited from MFS’s Supporting Housing Initiative for Families in Transition program and also recognized its Roger K. Johnson Leadership Awardees — Mary Ann and Paul Travers, Mike Skarr and Paul Pyrcik – for their commitment to Metropolitan and Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan DuPage. The gala was co-chaired by Metropolitan DuPage Board Members Dan McGowan and Emily Shupe. MFS is a nonprofit that provides support and family services to strengthen communities. 
presidents, to name a few. And, as impressive as his kitchen skills are, his life as a humanitarian is equally inspiring. He shares what’s next on his to-do list, what makes his fried chicken so damn special, and some valuable advice Johnny Carson’s pianist told him. My producer/co-host John St. Augustine and I also chat about a VERY big book launch, Chance the Rapper’s private party, some of my favorite events and so much more! So, grab a piece of Hummingbird Cake, find an easy chair, and enjoy the show! (LISTEN HERE) AND, I hope you will join us on Wednesday, Aug. 30 for Art's "Rainbow at Reunion" party! Details here! 
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Collectively, the women at the Tribune Tower Residences party have raised millions of dollars for Chicago’s nonprofit community. The Residences were the perfect venue for our 5th annual event. Following a toast from Kathleen, invitees enjoyed mingling on the magnificent Crown Terrace, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and taking guided tours of the spectacular residences and
