Tag Archives: Elizabeth McNally Mairs

CHICAGO’S LITERARY AWARDS, HOLIDAY HOT SPOTS, COOL DECORATING TIPS, VIRTUAL TRIUMPHS AND MORE!

Plus: Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy for Infant Welfare Society; Cooking with Sarah and Kerry for Pitch In; WINGS' virtual "Sweet Home Chicago" party; Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm; Frosty's Holiday Pop-Up Hotel (the first and only); Albany Park unites with lights;  CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up; The Drake Hotel's homage to Princess Diana; Top designers share tips/tricks for holiday decorating; Jim Peterik and the Ides of March (FREE) Christmas show; Kehoe Designs makes Christmas Merry & Bright for the needy; Shaun and Joseph's towering holiday gift giving idea; Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman; National Jingle Bell Day from Chicago Star Media (JOIN US!); Porchlight Music Theatre's "Burning Bluebeard"; Playboy remembers its Playmates at Christmas; Ruth Page Center's virtual Nutcracker; Chicago Light's "Gala of Hope at Home"; GREAT toy drive list; Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN"; Special thanks to Sylvia, Anna, Robert, Thomas, Steve, Fred and Hannah; This & That; Fun videos and SOOO much more!

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Isabel Wilkerson, Carl Sandburg Literary Award recipient.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation has hosted an elaborate Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner for the past 20 years, the last being in 2019 with an extravagant affair at the UIC Forum where over 1000 guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner at tables loaded with books from featured authors and even the authors themselves joining guests at their tables. This year, it was a little different with a virtual event but it was certainly no less exciting. Longtime host Bill Kurtis opened the hour-long event seated in an easy chair in a cozy virtual library. He presented speakers Bob Wislow (CPLF chair), Linda Johnson Rice (CPL chair), Brenda Langstraat (CPLF president), Dave Casper (CPLF vice chair, U.S. CEO BMO Financial Group) and moderator Scott Simon (host NPR Saturday Weekend Edition). Kurtis spoke about past literary giants who had been honored at this prestigious event like Kurt Vonnegut, Margaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie and Toni Morrison. He introduced this year's three honorees: Nate Marshall (21st Century Honoree), Donna La Pietra

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Donna La Pietra, the first CPLF Civic Award winner.

 

(Inaugural Civic Award) and Isabel Wilkerson (Carl Sandburg Literary Award). Mayor Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman served as honorary chairs. Langstraat spoke about the successful pivots the Library has been forced to make due to the pandemic like shifting to virtual programming, creating over 100K grab-and-go activity kits and virtual story sessions like "Live from the Library", the most successful social media campaign in the Library's history! It featured celebrities with ties to Chicago reading to kids including former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle, Oprah, John C. Reilly, Bonnie Hunt, Gabrielle Union, Common,

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Nate Marshall, CPLF 21st Century honoree.

Chelsea Clinton, the Mayor, Jane Lynch, Michelle Williams and many others. This uber-successful campaign garnered 22 million video views and 800 million impressions with viewers tuning in from over 37 countries! Wislow then introduced the 21st Century honoree, Nate Marshall, a rapper, poet, playwright, educator, community-engaged artist and more. Marshall was raised in West Pullman and is the grandson of a Chicago Public librarian. Nate said he was "forged in the farthest reaches of this city" and that his family has had a presence here for a century. He urged viewers to support the library where he was

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Former president Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle appeared in video for "Live from the Library."

"nurtured" and ended his acceptance speech with his poem titled "Imagine" dedicated to all those who influenced him. Video congrats came from Natalie Y. Moore (a fellow 21st Century honoree, 2017), Helen

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Event host Bill Kurtis and his Donna La Pietra, Civic Award honoree.

Zell, Dr. Eve L. Ewing (2019 21st Century honoree) and Mary Ellen Messmer (CPL Acting Commissioner). Linda Johnson Rice introduced Donna La Pietra as the inaugural Civic Award honoree calling her "a force." Bob Wislow said, "Donna embodies the spirit of this award." Everyone who knows and loves Donna knows what a perfect

choice she is for this honor. She has been on the CPLF board for over 20 years, invited by

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Gabrielle Union appeared in the presentation from "Live from the Library."

the board's founder and Donna's

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Rap artist Pinqy Ring-After School Matters.

mentor, Cindy Pritzker. Donna, a longtime producer and Emmy Award winner, was also instrumental in the creation of Millennium Park, is active on the boards of many civic organizations, including the Library Foundation, Steppenwolf, Shedd Aquarium and Chicago Botanic Garden to name just a few. She is an avid gardener and land conservationist. There's really not enough space or time to mention all of the ways she has enhanced Chicago and inspired the people who live here, including me, with her unique

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Brenda Langstraat, CPLF president.
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Chef Rick Bayless.

brand of magic. Donna said, "How lucky am I to have found my way to so many of Chicago's nonprofit organizations, who at their hearts, have a desire to serve and at their soul is volunteerism." Congratulatory videos came in from Greg Cameron (CEO Joffrey Ballet), Rick Bayless, Michelle Boone (Navy Pier), Peter Sagal ("Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me"), Jaume Plensa (artist), Justice Anne Burke, Rhona Frazin (past CPLF pres/CEO), Pinqy Ring (rap artist

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Greg Cameron, CEO Joffrey Ballet.

with After School Matters) and artist Nick Cave.

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Linda Johnson Rice, CPLF chair.

Donna dedicated her award to her mentor Cindy Pritzker who she said, "has been her role model for service, for fostering fearlessness, for her visionary thinking, for rewarding the risk-takers and for a wide diverse embrace of people and ideas." Pritzker said of Donna, "When I think of the doers in our wonderful city, the first name that pops up is Donna La Pietra. Nobody can come close. She is Miss Chicago." Isabel Wilkerson,

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Dr. Eve L. Ewing, 2019 21st Century Award recipient.

the Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, was featured

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Dave Casper, U.S. CEO BMO>

in a Q & A with NPR radio's Scott Simon. Wilkerson is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Humanities Medal and is the author of the New York Times bestsellers "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents" and "The Warmth of Other Suns." She spoke about her deeply-researched works that provide insights into America's history and the divides that linger today. She grew up in Washington, D.C. where her father was a Tuskegee Airman. Congrats on this wonderful first virtual Awards event and to all the winners! So inspiring. There is a branch of the Chicago Public Library in all of Chicago's 77 neighborhoods.

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Elizabeth

Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing York Furrier.

Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy were the themes for the Oak Brook Chapter of the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society when they hosted "Home for the Holidays" on December 6. Presented by longtime emcee Alison Rosati (NBC-5), the virtual "Mistletoe Medley" event included fabulous fashions curated by  Tracey Tarantino of ZZAZZ Productions (in a collaboration with Chapter member Marge Tresley)

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Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe.

and a festive home segment from Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula. Alison called the event, "the unofficial start of the festive time of year of giving." Fashion highlights included looks from redE Mas Boutique, York Furrier and Peach Carr Designs,

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Lou Smeja, Oak Brook Chapter President.

all presented by my favorite model Elizabeth McNally Mairs. Alison opened the show welcoming viewers and acknowledging Angel Donors Nives Rizza and Susan Heil. Chapter president Lou Smeja thanked supporters and shared that this event raised over $160,000 for the Infant Welfare Society (and the Angel Harvey Family Health Center) and that the Chapter has donated nearly 9,000 hours of volunteer service in 2020. Tracey reported in from redE Mas Boutique in Hinsdale (36 E.

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Allison Rosati, longtime event emcee (NBC-5).

First St.) where she showed blazer looks that are perfect for Zoom meetings and then it was onto York Furs. York Furrier (located at 107 N. York St. in Elmhurst) is celebrating 89 years in business and has

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Designer Peach Carr, the one and onlyl.

supported nonprofits in the community since its inception. Owners Kathy and John Rezny greet guests like they're family members and the selection of furs, outerwear and unique accessories is one of the best in the city. For this presentation, glam luxe were the watch words as Elizabeth swished about in a beautiful variety of furs and handbags. Tracey then interviewed Project

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Tracey Tarantino at redE Mas Boutique.

Runway star, designer Peach Carr, a Chicago native, from her private atelier above her home built in 1870. The space was once a hay loft and has now been transformed into Peach's "happy place" with light

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Elegant Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing an outfit from redE Mas Boutique.

wood and lots of windows. Peach recounted her journey to appear on Project Runway where she was hand-selected by style arbiter Tim Gunn. Peach's daughter Molly was the driving force behind this exciting opportunity urging her mother to submit an application. Peach eventually appeared in

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Peach Carr pointing out 3 of her archived designs.

episodes for both Project Runway and Project Runway All-Stars. In a riveting Q & A with Tracey, Peach shared that her collections have always been "about women, for women and made in Chicago." She said she wants women to feel good about themselves

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing Peach Carr's popular "paper doll" dress.

and that all of her pieces are very

stretchy, very easy to wear and forgiving, especially with all of us "eating our way through the pandemic." She said Edie Sedgwick, one of Andy Warhol's Factory superstars, has always been her muse and that she even met Edie's aunt Kyra Sedgwick, at an event where Kyra said to

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Tracey Tarantino at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula.

her, "You're the one who designs for my dead aunt, right?" Peach discussed three of her iconic designs that she keeps in the loft. The first, a black cocktail dress, was part of her first collection following Project Runway. A glamorous, pale peach coat dress was her audition piece and a third look, a red dress designed as an

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing a Peach Carr design.

homage to Chicago, was the first piece she designed following her bad accident. The event concluded with a beautiful segment filmed at Kehoe Designs' Holiday Shoppe, where Tracey spotlighted all the festive offerings there including centerpieces, ornaments, Hanukkah items, trees and more. Congrats to all of these hardworking women who are supporting the Angel Harvey Family Health Center with such devotion. The Center provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for children, adolescents and adults. (More info here!)

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Cooking with Sarah and Kerry Wood for the Wood Family Foundation's Pitch In program.

The Wood Family Foundation hosted a "tasty" virtual fundraiser that involved cooking a holiday dinner with Boka Chef Lee Wolen and Foundation founders Kerry and Sarah Wood. It was a very intimate hour with the Woods Zooming in from their elegant all white kitchen and Chef Wolen from another location to prepare parmesan crusted chicken with butternut squash and

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Laura Muriello, Wood Family Foundation executive director. 

polenta. Sarah and Kerry work as well together in the kitchen as they do in real life raising a family of three, Justin, Katie and Charlie. Laura Muriello, executive director of the Wood Family Foundation, introduced the event along with Abby

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Boka Chef Lee Wolen.

Kritzler, executive director of the Boka Restaurant Group. Lots of supporters shared their dishes during the video presentation including Erin and Shawn Doty, whose smoke detector went off during their efforts. Lol! Young Cooper Smith and his brother asked Kerry "what was the fastest pitch you ever threw", the answer was

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Happy culinary participants.

102 mph! Tom and Cece Ricketts were also cooking along with Chef Wolen and the Woods as well as some mentors in the Foundation's Pitch In program. In its early years, the Foundation

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Young supporters.

sponsored one-time initiatives like coat drives, holiday gift programs as well as funding projects like the playroom at Lurie Children's Hospital. As time wore on, the Woods realized the greater needs in the community and, in 2014, developed an after-school mentoring program

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Sarah and Kerry's tasty finished dish.

that currently serves four communities and is growing. Sarah and Kerry concluded the evening showing their beautiful finished dishes and thanking supporters. She said, "It's a rough year for nonprofits and our organization is still working hard every day for our students, giving them everything they need from essentials to school supplies to support with their learning as well as meeting virtually every week. We couldn't do this without events like this." Here's to a lot more success Kerry and Sarah! Thanks for your dedication to Chicago's kids! (Learn more about this much needed nonprofit here!)

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Ralph Covert, of Ralph's World, performs at WING's "Sweet Home Chicago" event.

WINGS (Women in Need Growing Stronger) took its popular "Sweet Home Chicago" fundraiser virtual on December 13. In the past, these Sunday brunch fundraisers were held at the Four Seasons with a room full of laughing, dancing kids intent on creating the very best gingerbread houses. This year, supporters could order gingerbread house kits to be delivered to

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Rita and John Canning.

their homes as they viewed this 17th delightful (virtual) event. One component that has remained the same though was the joyous, kid-friendly music delivered

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Rebecca Darr, executive director WINGS Program.

by Ralph Covert of Ralph's World, a children's musical group that has been a part of this event for the past 11 years. Ralph opened the event Sesame Street-style with a pair of adorable puppets. The event even had a little Mister Rogers' "won't you be my neighbor" feel to it too as Ralph interacted with the puppets and Rebecca Darr, WINGS Program CEO. Darr thanked viewers and

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Adorable event participants!

encouraged them to "embrace this fun time and forget about everything happening in the world." She thanked longtime, dedicated event founders/supporters Rita and John Canning. Early on

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The late Rich Martin, his wife Donna and their amazing comfort dogs.

Rita realized there were no domestic violence shelters near her home so she decided to build one with the first safe house being built in Chicago's northwest suburbs. Since then, the Cannings have helped raise millions to support those affected by domestic violence. Rita and John appeared on-camera from their home and announced that the event raised over $700,000, making it the largest fundraiser of the year. Lots of cute kiddies appeared onscreen dancing in their jammies to Ralph's "Alphabet Song." Sadly, it was announced that Rich Martin (and his wife Donna),

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Dancing to Ralph's World!

whose comfort dogs were a key part of these annual events, had passed away recently due to Covid. In the past, his Golden Retrievers could be seen lounging around the Four Seasons ballroom as kids petted and relaxed around them. The event closed with these encouraging words from Rebecca. "Please know that your support is helping people transcend their life of violence to a life of happiness. No pandemic is going to stop us." (WINGS info here). Currently, WINGS provides 33 safe housing options in and around Chicagoland.

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IMG_8992 (2)You can still find a LOT of holiday cheer at Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm. This pop-up experience is located at 1455 N. Elston in Goose Island. It's decorated with over 1 million lights and dozens of Insta-worthy photo opps. You can pick out a perfect tree, visit with Santa, get lost in a Christmas

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Candid Candace TV team Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Troy Mairs and Elizabeth McNally Mairs.

Tree Trail/Maze and enjoy donuts and hot chocolate as you stroll along to the sounds of the season. (Covid guidelines in place, closes January 10 and you must have a res/ticket before arrival. Details here). I hope you enjoy my latest video from Candid Candace TV (below) with special thanks to the production Dream Team, Troy Mairs, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Elizabeth McNally Mairs, for making it happen! Not a subscriber, please sign up here!)

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Frosty's Pop-Up Christmas Hotel.

And, if you have out of town visitors who love the holidays, IMG_8818steer them to Chicago's first and only pop-up Christmas hotel, Frosty's, at 221 N. Columbus Ave. Yes, it IS the Radisson Blu but, for this brief moment in time it has been transformed into a magical place sprinkled with loads of holiday cheer! Even the rooms are decorated with trees! Dogs and cats are welcome and only registered guests will be allowed access to the hotel. (Details here).

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Albany Park decor.

A little bit of holiday magic is also happening in the 4100 block of N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park where neighbors

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Chuck enjoying N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park.

have erected endless, lighted "tunnels of love." What began last year between neighbors George Heitz and Ignacio Martinez, has caught on with others along the blocks who wanted to help bring an appreciation for the community. The results are dramatic! (Video here!)

For 20 years, CircuitMOM Productions has been producing world class experiential events led by Matthew Harvat and Edwin Martinez. This year, they have jumped into the holiday

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CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up at 409 N. Wolcott.

spirit with all four feet with "CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up" at 409 N. Wolcott. The excitement began on December 9 after they transformed their venue into a winter wonderland. The pop-up offers 8 unique holiday environments where you

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With CircuitMOM's Edwin Martinez and Matthew Harvat.

can capture special memories with family, friends and pets, all in a Covid safe environment. Details here: Kids (Under 10) – $6 per (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal); Adult – $12 per adult (4 people minimum); Professional Pictures – $45 ( Pictures in 3 sets, will receive digital copies, payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal); Prints – $20 (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal). (For tickets or more info, click here!) _______________________________________________________________________

IMG_9216I was able to cross something off my bucket list recently with a visit to the iconic and historic Drake Hotel's magnificent Princess Diana Suite, formerly the hotel's Presidential Suite. It was renamed after Princess Diana's

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Part of the luxurious Princess Diana Suite.

historic, and only, visit to Chicago in June, 1996. Watch for a Chicago Star Media all-access video coming soon of my interview with Damien McArdle, the Drake's GM, who shares fun-filled details about the Princess' visit and a fabulous package they're offering in the suite now! Trivia question, do you know why the hotel's hallways are so wide? To be able to accommodate two women in period ball gowns walking side by side. (Now, take a suite peek here!)

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Greg Hyder, the King of Christmas.

I know most of us have already decorated for the holidays, but I quizzed some of my favorite event designers on their favorite tips and tricks. Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event, loves filling her trees with fresh flowers,

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Debi Lilly's beautiful, flower-filled Christmas tree (photo by Tiffaney Childs)

peonies and hydrangeas and mixing them in with faux flowers. She also suggests styling a winter wonderland champagne bar topped with flowers in silver vases or mercury glass. She loves gifts wrapped in velvet bows with cheeky tags and adding luxe to wrapping paper with suede tassels, Swiss silk double face ribbon and tiny pom poms hot glued onto craft paper. Vintage bottle brush trees are another favorite item to

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Michelle Durpetti's elegant holiday table.

decorate with as are fresh pine boughs. Michelle Durpetti, another fabulous wedding planner, event designer and co-owner of Gene & Georgetti's restaurant, says don't limit yourself to traditional holiday colors. Consider jewel tones and don't be afraid of

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Greg Hyder and Jim Smith's ornament-filled chandelier.

adding texture to your holiday table. Think velvet table linens with gorgeous glassware, Shantung napkins with wooden chargers. She loves using her mom's (Marion

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Ramsey Prince decorates a gorgeous holiday table. (Maison du Prince, 566 Chestnut, Winnetka)

Durpetti) collection of salt and pepper shakers, flatware and china that she picked up in her travels. She said, "This way, the table provides direct access to memory lane as a conversation starter." Event planner Derrick Taylor says "don't get caught up in commercial fads. Christmas is really about feeling. Collect ornaments that tell your story." Greg Hyder helps plan plenty of seasonal decor at

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Debi Lilly with a locally sourced tree.

  the Peninsula Hotel but for his own home, with partner Jim Smith, he likes to go a little more over the top. He's as much a fan of Christmas as I am (if this is even possible?!) and he decorates every nook and cranny. In their new, multi-

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Debi Lilly's pastel bottle brush trees add a charming touch.

level home, he has plenty to work with but is conscious of his carbon footprint. He repurposes decor to suit the holiday. For instance, when Halloween is over, the bright orange pumpkins are transformed into silver and gold works of art that adorn their front steps. Greg loves using ornaments in unexpected places too like hanging from chandeliers or worked into vignettes for the mantle. He's a great collector of vintage items and decorates with traditional as well as modern

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Meet Sookie Hyder-Smith. Finally, a home for the holidays (rescued from PAWS by Greg and Jim).

elements. I love all of these friends' styles and know their homes are filled with so much holiday cheer! For Chuck and me, we LOVE to decorate and, most years, leave our Christmas tree and decorations up way past their due date. I can't stand to part with it.  Actually, I keep a curio cabinet up year-round filled with vintage Christmas items along with a 4-foot-tall Santa that I bought with my Mom at Marshall Field's. A giant, lighted wreath adorns our antique liquor cabinet (that I bought in high school for $45 on layaway). These are things I just can't part with, they provide way too many happy memories. Fortunately, Chuck feels the same (I think).

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Kehoe Designs helping those less fortunate during the holidays.

Kudos to Tom Kehoe! His Kehoe Designs is working with local nonprofits to gift fully decorated Christmas trees to those in need of a little extra holiday cheer. Working with the American Heart Association, HIRE 360 and NAMI Chicago, the partners have identified recipients who have had particularly challenging experiences this year. The first tree went to Angelo Panzica, who came down with Covid after being hired by HIRE 360. Thanks for all you do in our communities Tom!

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Joseph Szmczak and Shaun Rajah.

A great gift idea brought to you by Shaun Rajah and Joseph Szmczak,, Holiday Happy Hour Towers! Stylishly curated bundles of sweets, savories and holiday scents for Christmas and NYE that come in beautiful, signature holiday packaging! (Details here!)  

I want to give a shout-out to my fellow columnist Thomas

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The uber-talented Thomas O'Gorman of Skyline newspaper.

O'Gorman, the delightful, around-town writer for the Skyline newspaper. In my wildest dreams, I could never write as good as he does. His work is sheer poetry and his knowledge of the arts, history, Chicago and even gourmet cooking runs very, very deep. I love all of his columns and never miss them but, his most recent one, "Who would ever want to be king,"  truly captured the spirit of the holidays and Chicago in its present state. It is a must-read! Keep up the great work Thomas! YOU are a Chicago treasure! (Scroll down his Facebook page to his column here!)  

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National Jingle Bell Day presented by Chicago Star Media, Saturday, December 19, 6 pm CST!

I'm so excited and hope you can join me on Saturday, December 19 at 6 pm CST. Chicago Star Media has come up with a really BIG idea to bring the city and, hopefully, the country together for National Jingle Bell Day! The concept for NJBD was born after the Jingle Bell Day Flier Image Fileresurgence of Covid-19 in Illinois caused another wave of shutdowns this fall that has extended into the holidays. Elaine Hyde, publisher/editor of Chicago Star Media, created the event after being inspired by the community sing-a-longs that took place in Chicago earlier in the year. So, on Dec.19, at 6 pm CST, wherever you are, indoors, outdoors, in your car or in your workplace, videotape yourself singing Jingle Bells and post to social media with the hashtag #jinglebellday2020! OR, come join us around the Great Tree near the Wrigley building on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 6 pm! Bring your bells, we will be live-streaming! (For more info, visit Chicago Star Media here and let's SING!)

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Porchlight Music Theatre announces its latest virtual offering, the holiday return of The Ruffians’ Burning Bluebeard! Burning Bluebeard, now in its ninth year, was created and performed by the critically acclaimed theatre troupe The Ruffians. A magical story, told with music, clowning, tumbling, acrobatics and dance, Burning Bluebeard is a physical-performance phenomena inspired by the true story of Chicago’s former Iroquois Theatre and the unforgettable events that resulted in tragedy for 600 theatergoers at Christmastime in 1903. "A vaudevillian musical delight with a story that excavates the poetic and poignant remains of a piece of Chicago’s rich history and will leave you with an unforgettable experience." (Details here, through January 3!)

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Chicago’s oldest Nutcracker tradition is transformed into a one-of-a-kind, immersive, virtual experience featuring (pre-recorded) dance at the historic Ruth Page Center for the Arts located in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Streaming now, join the Stahlbaum’s at their holiday gathering. Experience Clara’s dreams of sugar plums, rogue bon bons, impish peppermints and a pine forest dusted with snow. Peek into Drosselmeyer's Workshop and the Kingdom of Sweets to see the Sugar Plum Fairy dance with her friends. Visions: A Nutcracker Experience gives everyone a chance to see The Ruth Page Center for the Arts as never before and an opportunity to celebrate the season in a whole new way. (Through Dec. 20, details here!)   

Chicago Lights will host its "Gala of Hope, at Home", on Friday, March 5 at 7 pm. This virtual event will benefit Chicago Lights Gala of Hope at Home Mar. 5 the life-changing and youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights and the community support efforts of the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Details here!

And, it's not too late to donate to the holiday toy drives going on across Chicagoland! Here's a great list comprised by Block Club Chicago!

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Nadia Lee Cohen holds copy of her first book, WOMEN, a sell out in its first run!

I'm so excited about Nadia Lee Cohen's first book, WOMEN. British-born, Los Angeles-based photographer

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Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN."

Nadia's WOMEN, her IDEA-published photo book debut, is the result of six years of work and features 100 "extra unordinary portraits." And I am one of them. Pinch me. It opens with Mick Jagger's daughter, Georgia May. The first run, a limited edition of 1000, is already sold out! They are taking orders now for the second edition here.

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Ides of MarchMy favorite rock legend, Jim Peterik, will be offering his 25th

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Rock legend Jim Peterik, the Ides of March.

annual "Sharing Christmas with the Ides of March" on Saturday, Dec. 19, 8 pm, CST. This live-streamed event (from his studio!) will be available for FREE (Jim's Christmas gift to his fans) on youtube and facebook! (Details here)!

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Hannah Stanley and Fred Weintraub–WGCO radio.

The year is coming to a close and this seems to be about the

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Anna Davlantes–WGN radio host. (John Reilly photo).

end of virtual fundraisers until next year. I've been traveling around town gathering up as much holiday cheer as I possibly can to share with you and it's been a gold mine out there. People are celebrating and decorating in ways I've never seen before. An event designer friend of

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Sylvia Perez–Fox 32 Chicago.

mine told me stores like Michael's, Target, Home Goods, Home Depot and others, were sold out of Christmas decor almost before they were stocked! I'm thrilled to be able to find so many media outlets

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Robert Feder's column.

covering places to go and things to do for the holidays too. It was a thrill to present my Holiday Hot List (read it here on Chicago Star Media) and more fun news from around town with the one and only Sylvia Perez (Fox 32 Chicago), Anna Davlantes (WGNRadio) and Fred Weintraub and Hannah Stanley (WGCO radio's "The Hannah & Fred Show," listen here!) I loved chatting about what I know and love best, CHICAGO, and I'm so lucky to have such wonderfully supportive media friends! And a special thanks to Robert Feder and Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman for including me in their must-read columns too! (Watch my fun interview with Sylvia below!) Love and thanks to ALL!

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Playboy Christmas gifts--mask and bath bomb--received 12-14-20Playboy never forgets its Playmates. For years and years, Hefner always sent Christmas gifts to every one of his Playmates. Gifts included everything from branded clothing (PB backpacks) to jewelry to customized cosmetics (think "Playmate Pink" blush)! I'm so happy to see his tradition continue! Thanks dear Playboy for

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Steve Ewert photo.

never forgetting those who brought you to the party!

Special thanks to photographer Steve Ewert who included me in his "Portraits of Successful Women" campaign. It's an honor to appear alongside alongside Brandis Friedman, Dominique Jordan, Lily Liu, Laura Chavez, Kate Sullivan and others. Thanks so much for including me Steve! (Read my story here, if you want, lol)

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BoatsThe spirit of the season has not been dampened for me even with Covid and all the problems we're facing right now. If anything, I'm feeling even more hopeful. I was chatting with a very knowledgeable friend who's in retail recently and he really opened my eyes with his E148246d341b93843b6eb8c9a729175d interesting take on things. He said, "Can you imagine what it's going to be like when this is all over and people are safe and free to travel again? We will be swamped here in Chicago with people from the Midwest and across the country finally anxious to get out and about! The stores, hotels and restaurants will be packed. It will be like after Prohibition!" I had never thought of things this way but I think he is absolutely right! I know I will be jumping out of my sneakers (no more heels in the near future) to do all of the things I haven't been able to enjoy for all these many months. I will feel like Secretariat breaking free of the starting gate! So, I do see light at the end of our long, dark tunnel. And I just can't wait to celebrate (with you)!  

Have a Happy, Healthy, Safe Holiday Season and a Very Merry Christmas! Here's to a big, bright 2021 for us all!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S.  I didn't know they could read?!

4 Comments

Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Music, Television, Travel

FUN, FASHION AND PHILANTHROPY: THE CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE PRESENTS FLAIR

Plus: Misericordia's Heart of Mercy Ball; A Sterling Event with Dr. Sandy, Opal and friends; Luminart's "Next Begins Now," a virtual success; John helps shine a light on the 1stGEN Scholarship Gala; Lightscape at the Botanic; The Baton Show Lounge celebrates 51; AIBI Revs UP!; The Joffrey Ballet "pulls back the curtain"; Zemeckis' The Witches on HBO; Howard Brown's Big Orange Ball; Pleasure for All CBD Playboy; International Playboy Bunny Reunion news; ULBGC Heroes Gala; Whitney, Tracey, Elda and Michael are ALL WINNING!; Fox 32 with our SYLVIA; Goodbye Tribune; This & That; Lotsa Videos and SOOO much more!

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Flair co-chairs Sheree Schimmer Valukas and Sherrill Bodine.

The Chicago Lighthouse's greatly anticipated FLAIR fashion show on October 16 was a virtual delight. It literally took a village, albeit a very socially distanced one, to bring this important mission and vision to life. Designers and retailers showcased their looks in pre-taped segments that went

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wears dress by MyStylist Macy's.

off without a hitch! This is all thanks to the talent and skills of my event co-host and show producer, Tracey DiBuono and her ZZAZZ Productions team, along with Kevin Sullivan and Francisco Perez. Huge kudos to Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine who have expertly co-chaired this show for the past 4 years! The event's fashion segments were filmed at Tufano's Vernon Park Tap (1073 W. Vernon Park) with an edgy, cool urban backdrop (and filmed all in ONE day)! Male models

With Dr. Janet Szlyk (pres-ceo)

With Dr. Janet Szlyk (Lighthouse pres/CEO) and my co-host (and show producer) Tracey Tarantino DiBuono.

strutted down the middle of Vernon Park Place as a drone caught their moves from above. Models Sheree Valukas, Elyse Leavy, The Lighthouse's Lindsay Inglis and Elizabeth Mairs even climbed onto the roof (wearing designs by RedE) for dramatic shots from that angle. The creativity was truly off the charts. The scenes were all

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Bridal segment by Lauren Lein with models Mary Lasky, Sally Jo Morris Pfaff and Sherrill Bodine.

captured on video by the uber-talented Troy Mairs along with his model/wife Elizabeth McNally Mairs. Participating stores and designers included Al Menotti Couture, Lauren Lein Shop, RedE Boutique, Mira Couture, MyStylist Macy's, Contessa Bottega, Etcetera, The Carlisle Collection and St.

Shaun Rajah Johnathan Grabill  Mark Olley  Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin.

Model Men Shaun Rajah, Jonathan Grabill, Mark Olley, Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin wearing MyStylist Macy's Men.

John. These fashion experts all brought their A-games as the clothing provided fit each model to perfection as well as suited their personalities. I was proud to co-host this virtual event with Tracey at The Lighthouse's pre-school on Roosevelt Road. It was so touching to see the teachers engaging their students virtually

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Kristine Kinder wearing Contessa Bottega.

through their computers. As I walked down the hallway to the production area, I saw teachers dancing, singing and praising their students through computer screens. The enthusiasm, love and dedication filled

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Designer Al Menotti with Felicia Winiecki (wearing his design).

the hallways of this haven of hope and it was so powerful to see. Dr. Janet Szlyk (Chicago Lighthouse president/CEO) spoke about the organization and how, over the past year, The Lighthouse "has come together to succeed during this tough time and shine like the beacon that we are." She talked about the org's employment services and job training programs and spotlighted staff members Kalari Girtley Jackson, Carly Englander and Jessica Smith, who are thriving in various positions within the organization. Kalari debuted the OrCam MyEye Pro, an amazing piece of technology that empowers people who are blind, enabling them to discern

Bobbi Panter  sheree  Yvonne Fitzgibbon and Liz Teasley --st. john

Bobbi Panter, Sheree Valukas (event co-chair), Yvonne Fitzgibbon and Liz Teasley wearing St. John. 

people, places, things in front of them and tell time (without a watch!), among other remarkable features.

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Sandy Murillo, Lighthouse development assistant, wearing MyStylist Macy's. 

Dr. Janet introduced Gaelynn Lea, a dynamic advocate for the disabled community who was born with a genetic condition that causes complications in the development of bones and limbs. She sang an original song (she also plays the violin) and is a past winner of the NPR Tiny Desk Contest. Event coordinator/friend Kevin Sullivan zoomed in from Marchesa where a fabulous Watch Party was being attended by about 34 guests. Owner Kathryn Alvera created a stunning environment, with gilded fall decor and even a

Kathy Cook  Hanah Bae  Heather Jane Johnston and Sherry Abrahams in Etcetera.

Kathy Cook, Hanah Bae, Heather Jane Johnston and Sherry Abrahams wearing Etcetera.

red carpet out front. Kevin expertly conducted a live auction raising much needed funds. Another Watch Party was hosted in River Forest by Lisa Birmingham. Participating models included

Mia Kapica  Lauren Annese  Nikki Friar  Claire Burke in Mira Couture.

Mia Kapica, Lauren Annese, Nikki Friar and Claire Burke in Mira Couture.

Heather Jane Johnston, Sherry Abrahams, Kathy Cook and Hanah Bae (who all wore Carlisle and Etcetera designs); Mark Olley, Shaun Rajah (of The Drake), Jonathan Grabill, Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin (from Marchesa) (who wore Macy's Men); Bobbi Panter, Sheree Valukas, Yvonne Fitzgibbon

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With Frances Renk, Sandy Murillo, Sherry Lea Holson and Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing MyStylist Macy's.

and Liz Teasley (who were decked out in St. John); Kristine Kinder, Sherrill Bodine, Whitney Reynolds and Rhonda Liesenfelt (who wore Contessa Bottega); Felicia Winiecki, Kristine Kinder and Sherry

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With Bobbi Panter, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, event co-host/show producer Tracey DiBuona and Helena Kontos (Contessa Bottega) at Marchesa Watch Party.

Lea Holson (wearing Menotti Couture); Sally Jo Morris (who wore her own wedding dress designed by Lauren Lein), Sherrill Bodine and Mary Lasky (all wearing Lauren Lein bridalwear); Sandy Murillo (of The Lighthouse), Elizabeth McNally Mairs, Frances Renk, Sherry Lea Holson and yours truly (wore looks created by MyStylist Macy's); Lauren

The Lighthouse's Carly and Kalari with Macy's MyStylist.

The Lighthouse's Carly Englander (L) and Kalari Girtley Jackson (R) with a Macy's MyStylist.

Annese and Claire Burke (of The Lighthouse), Mia Kapica and Nikki Friar (of Marchesa) (wore looks by Mira Couture). Since 1906, The Chicago Lighthouse has been a leader in serving the blind, visually impaired,

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Kevin Sullivan, Al Menotti and Francisco Perez.

disabled and Veteran communities. This remarkable nonprofit serves more than 67,000 people annually and has pivoted expertly to virtual programming so their children can still be educated and engaged every day in their homes. Over $40,000 was raised that will support these programs and services providing education, and rehabilitation as well as employment services. (To donate, and for more info, click here!) And to watch the entire fabulous fashions and show, see below!

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Sister Rosemary Connelly, Misericordia executive director, with one of the residents.

Misericordia's Women's Board hosted its first virtual (38th!) Heart of Mercy Ball on October 14. Hundreds of supporters tuned in to watch a 90 minute virtual show that was emceed by longtime Misericordia supporter (Mr. Fix It) Lou Manfredini. He spoke about the many

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Event host Lou Manfredini (Mr. Fix-It).

ways Misericordia pivoted during this pandemic to take care of its residents through fun activities that includes baking, bike-riding, arts and crafts and virtual programming to stay connected. Father Jack Clair, assistant executive director and chaplain at Misericordia, delivered a powerful prayer to open the

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Actor/ Misericordia support Joe Montegna.

evening. Testimonials on the great work done here were presented by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Pat Fitzgerald (head coach Northwestern University football), Mike Singletary (former Chicago Bear), Mary Ann Ahern (NBC 5 Chicago), actor Joe Montegna,

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Benedetta Kelly, Misericordia Women's Board President.

Miguel and Kelly Cervantes, actor Mark Rolston ("The Shawshank Redemption"), Hoda and Jenna (The Today Show) and yours truly. Bennetta Kelly, Women's Board president spoke about the history of the organization. "Nearly a century ago, our board was founded to support Misericordia, then a maternity hospital

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Miguel and Kelly Cervantes.

for women in need, then later becoming the Misericordia we know and love today…We support children and adults with a wide range of intellectual and developmental disabilities from numerous backgrounds," she said. Miguel and Kelly Cervantes thanked Sister Rosemary Connelly, executive director, for all her hard work

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Mary Ann Ahern (NBC 5 Chicago).

before a clip of Miguel singing with The Heartbreakers was shown. The group danced while Miguel sang "This is Me" (a song by Keala Settle that was performed in the film "The Greatest

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Lois Gates, Misericordia assistant executive director and chief development officer.

Showman"). Sister Rosemary's remarks always bring a tear to your eye. Her compassion and devotion to the cause is palpable. She's been a Sister of Mercy for 70 years and 50 years at Misericordia. She thanked everyone for their support saying it will help close the annual deficit of $20 million. "We can also pursue our

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Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern University head football coach.

dream projects of expanding our campus (8 new homes are planned as well as a drive-thru bakery) in the hope of being able to reach out to more families who are on the waiting list, families who want a

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Susan Baker, WB member and event co-chair.

Misericordia and NEED a Misericordia. We hope soon to be able to give them the same peace of mind our families have known for decades…Throughout this horrible health crisis, our staff have risked their own lives to ensure our residents remain happy, healthy, engaged and challenged.

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Jackie Kissane, WB member and event co-chair.

Tonight, we have the privilege of honoring our staff with a special Heart of Mercy Award," she said. 43-year staff member Mary Pat O'Brien, assistant executive director of residences and programs, presented the plaque to the

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Mary Pat O'Brien, Misericordia ED of residences and programs, presented Mis Staff with special Heart of Mercy Award.

staff. 400 of them have been employed at Mis for 10 years or more and some have been there for 40+ years! Lois Gates, assistant executive director and chief development officer, read a letter to the staff thanking them for their outstanding efforts. A

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Auctioneer Extraordinaire Greg "G-Man" Dellinger.

paddle raise was conducted by one of my favorite auctioneers, Greg "G-Man" Dellinger. A house for 6 in Ireland sold for $7500; a Peloton bike sold for $3000 and a week-long, Tuscany getaway for 4 sold for $4500. Co-chaired by WB members Susan Baker and Jackie Kissane, the virtual event exceeded the nonprofit's expectations raising over $311,000 and counting. (To donate or learn more, click here!)

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Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her supportive husband Greg Hines during the virtual event.

Even though it had to be virtual, Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her talented team figured out a way to make this year's (16th!) A Sterling Event benefiting A Silver Lining Foundation something very, very memorable just like she's always done in the past at her live events. Auctioneer Jim Miller opened the 90 minute show by introducing longtime supporter and WGN anchor Micah Materre who was shown in her kitchen busily creating the event's signature cocktail, a

Laura Ivaldi  Jack Hazan (that's me!)  Jim Miller (auctioneer)  Eric Lundgren and Scott Levine

Dr. Sandy and Greg in front with Laura Ivaldi, Jack Hazan, Jim Miller (auctioneer), Eric Lundgren and Scott Levine in rear.

Silvertini during a pre-show reception. From there, emcee Paul Lisnek (WGN News) took the virtual event reins and spoke about the nonprofit. "The challenges of being uninsured and under-insured persist now more than ever [for breast health testing]. Many of us know people who, six months

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ABC 7's Tracy Butler.

ago, had all the insurance they needed, had a good job and their lives were pretty stable, but, due to the pandemic, their lives have been turned upside down. ASLF has looked at these folks and felt it needed to step up to make sure that NO ONE has to go without potentially life-saving breast health testing." Eric

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LeeAnn Trotter, NBC-5 Chicago.

Siegelbaum, an internationally acclaimed wine & champagne expert who was Food & Wine magazine's 2019 Sommelier of the Year, explained the proper and safe way to open a bottle of champagne and conducted an ask-me-

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Micah Materre, WGN News anchor, toasts A Silver Lining Foundation with her custom Silvertini. 

anything segment. Who knew I'd been doing it wrong all these years. He said to hold the bottle at a 45 degree angle, put thumb on top, untwist cage and grab BASE of bottle and twist from there! Now we know!  Lisnek introduced the show's highlight, a visually sensational video produced and directed by fashion designer/lawyer Mark Roscoe (who appears to have unlimited talents!) and written and performed by the one and only Opal

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Roz Varon, ABC-7 Chicago.

Staples. "I Believe" is now the anthem of ASLF and a real (happy) tear jerker! (See video below). Dr. Sandy and her dear husband Greg Hines spoke about how the organization was founded in 2002 following her breast cancer

Auctioneer Jim Miller.

Auctioneer Jim Miller.

diagnosis. She recalled it came early in her marriage. She asked Greg to come home from work so she could share the news with him. His loving reply? "I married you, not your boobs!" (Just love him and the love they have together). I was honored to share a video tribute for this amazing nonprofit along with ABC-7's Tracy Butler, NBC Chicago's LeeAnn Trotter and Cancer Wellness magazine founder Caylei Vogelzang, among others. Tracy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018 and heard Dr. Sandy on the radio providing much needed inspiration and hope. LeeAnn lost her mom to breast cancer at an early age. Later

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Ben Carstensen and his Tasting Stars event were recipients of the 2020 Evy Award, named after Dr. Sandy's mom, Evelyn Goldberg.

in the program, Brent Carstensen accepted the Evy Award on behalf of the Tasting Stars event he started years ago in support of the foundation. A Silver Lining Foundation

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Courtney Mahoney, Chicago Wolves senior VP of operations.

has evolved from a single outreach program connecting those in need of breast health resources to a funder of potentially life- saving breast health testing. In 2019, ASLF funded almost 2000 tests for 1487 women, resulting in 18 life-saving diagnoses. The organization has 15 partner hospitals in the Chicagoland area. All event proceeds will support the programs of the foundation, in particular, Buy A Mom A Mammogram, which funds cost-free breast health testing for uninsured, underinsured, undocumented women and men and for those who have lost their jobs and health insurance due to the pandemic. (To donate or learn more, click here) (To watch Opal Staples perform "I Believe" see below, and to view the virtual gala, click here.)

And watch the virtual event here!

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Patrick Gleason  Matt Olaveson  Ken Norgan  Kelly Wicklander  Joe Wicklander -bottom--Adam Vitale  Vanessa George

(Top, L to R) Patrick Gleason, co-chair Matt Olaveson, Ken Norgan, Kelly Wicklander and Joe Wicklander. (Front)–Co-chair Adam Vitale and Vanessa George.

The Luminarts Cultural Foundation hosted a successful virtual event on October 10. "Next Begins Now," was a fundraiser to support our city's outstanding emerging artists so that they can pursue careers in the arts. Throughout the evening, we heard outstanding performances in a variety of genres. Katya Schloeman, a Luminarts Fellow in Dance 2017, performed a stirring ballet. She is a former company member of The Joffrey Academy of Dance. I was proud to introduce Josh Brown (via video of course), a 2019 Fellow in Classical Music, who performed on a 1679 Pietro Guarneri violin! Baritone Will Liverman, a 2017 Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music, played the piano and sang "Moonlight in Vermont" (he gave me chills he was so

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Josh Brown, Luminarts 2019 Fellow in Classical Music. 

good). Josh is an alumnus of The Julliard School and

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Will Liverman, 2017 Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music.

has been engaged to perform in lead roles at the Met, LA Opera and the Kennedy Center, among others. Emily Pogoreic, a Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music, sang as Chris Reynolds accompanied her on the piano. Jesse Stein, a 2020 Luminarts Fellow in Prose, read a delightful excerpt from his first book, "Mandrake." Leanne Williams, a Luminarts Fellow in Visual Arts, spoke about her passion for painting as the camera panned

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Leanne Williams, Luminarts Fellow in Visual Arts.

around the room of her fabulous finished works. Leanne was recently featured as a 2020 Breakout Artist in NYC. A final performance was presented by soprano Nicole

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Jesse Stein, a 2020 Luminarts Fellow in Prose.

Cabell, a Luminarts Award Recipient in Classical Voice. Other artists spoke about the remarkable impact the nonprofit has made in their lives. The event was expertly co-chaired by Matt Olaveson and Adam Vitale (board members) and Kylie Krizek (Wintrust Commercial Banking) who also hosted a virtual after-party with friends Ken Norgan, Patrick Gleason, Kelly and Joe Wicklander and Vanessa George. Kudos to all! (To donate and/or learn more, click here!)

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John C. Robak, CEO, Greeley and Hansen (Chicago State Foundation Board Member and Gala Chair)

I'm so very proud of my dear friend John Robak, CEO Greeley and Hansen, on his recent, virtual hosting duties on behalf of Chicago State University (in partnership with the Chicago State Foundation). He did a fabulous job sharing the story and fundraising for this wonderful school during its inaugural 1stGEN Scholarship Gala held on October 2. The university delivers a carefully curated

CSU pres Zaldwaynaka Scott and CSF board member Christina Steed.

CSU President Zaldwaynaka Scott and CSF board member Christina Steed.

suite of wraparound supports designed to propel the success of first-generation and non-traditional students from diverse populations. According to stats, the greatest roadblock to first-gen success isn't a lack of talent or desire, but the lack of financial resources. Dollars raised from this event will be used to help remove that barrier. The evening celebrated student scholars who are the beneficiaries of 1stGEN Scholarships as

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Alyssa Quinlan, Chief Business Development Officer at Hindman Auctions.

well as the presentation of the first-ever Cougar Servant Leadership Awards. These special honors were presented to former Illinois Senate President, and long-time CSU champion, Emil Jones, Jr., Chicago Public Schools CEO and CSU Alumna, Dr. Janice Jackson and longtime education and arts

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Darrious Hilmon, Executive Director at Chicago State Foundation, is joined by radio personality Ramonski Luv. 

advocate, and Bronzeville Children's Museum founder Peggy Montes. Celebrity video shout-outs were delivered by actor Taye Diggs and actress Michelle Wilson. Other remarks came from Cristina Steed (Chicago State Foundation Board Member and host at 95.1 FM); Tiffany Davis (CSU alumna); Zaldwaynaka Scott (CSU president); Senator Elgie Sims and Darrious Hilmon (Chicago State Foundation ED), among others. The evening closed with a dance party hosted by DJ Vince Adams. Congrats to all involved! (To donate, or learn more, click here!)

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120562292_10223577099600656_3666109390393626747_nRoald Dahl's The Witches, which has been re-imagined by the

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Leslie Zemeckis celebrates husband Robert's latest film.

award-winning director/writer/producer Robert Zemeckis for HBO, premiered on Oct. 22. Robert's adoring wife Leslie threw a socially distanced DIY cast party to celebrate with cake and champagne and, of course stylish masks. The story, which stars Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer and Stanley Tucci, takes place in late 1967. A young orphaned boy goes to live with his loving grandma (Spencer) in the rural Alabama town of Demopolis. As the boy and his  grandmother encounter some deceptively glamorous but thoroughly diabolical witches, she wisely whisks him away to a seaside resort. Regrettably, they arrive at precisely the same time that the world's Grand High Witch has gathered her fellow cronies from around the globe — under cover — to carry out her nefarious plans. See trailer below! Kudos Robert, Leslie and crew!

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2020 EvitePlease mark your calendars NOW for Rev UP! 2020! This virtual (and oh-so fashionable) fundraiser will be held on Thursday, October 29 beginning at 6 pm, honoring Chicago's own Sherrill Bodine! Proceeds from this event will support our design community and the work of the Apparel Industry Foundation which provides

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Sneak peek at Rev UP'S Peach Carr segment filmed at Bentley Gold Coast and produced by ZZAZZ Productions. Models Frances Renk and Sherry Lea Fox in center. (Sherry Lea Fox photo).

scholarships, educational programming, vocational training and more to young people
starting careers in the sewn products industry, and most recently keeping unemployed theater stitchers working to produce PPE. The event will feature a fashion show (produced by Tracey DiBuono of ZZAZZ Productions) showcasing the looks of designers Elda de la Rosa Couture, Lauren Lein Ltd., Menotti Couture, Model Atelier, Peach Carr, Rebellion, Ricorso and Soundoff. I'm thrilled to be co-hosting this event which will also include amazing raffle prizes (Peach Carr custom, signed handbag, one-of-a-kind leather and fur wristlet from Rebellion, hydra-facials from the one and only Leah Chavie, a sizable gift certificate from Elda de la Rosa and so much more! (To see more details and join us, click here!) See teaser video below!

And see Ambar Campos, AIBI executive director, describe the organization's impact below….

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JoffreyThe Joffrey Ballet's Women's Board will host a virtual event to kick-off the holiday season on Saturday, November 7, at 3 pm– "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker," Join them for a glimpse at The Nutcracker like never before with behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with Joffrey Company Artists and members of the Artistic team and delightful surprises to celebrate the magic of this story. With a program geared toward all ages and options to elevate your experience with at-home party packages, guests from age 2 to 92 can enjoy a memorable afternoon together. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Joffrey’s Crisis Stabilization Fund, a $12M initiative to provide for the continued health of the organization despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us in supporting this event as we raise necessary funding for the Joffrey’s programs and operations. Tickets and more info here!

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PAWS Chicago will be hosting its annual Fur Ball this year virtually on Friday, November 13, 7:50 pm. Thanks to the outpouring of support this year, this much loved NO-KILL shelter has been able to find forever homes for 3,280 dogs/cats! The virtual event will have lots of surprises, amazing auction items and, of course, those adorable dogs and cats! Please join us and find details here!

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2020 PAWS VIRTUAL FUR BALL, FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 7:50 PM.

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Baton Show Lounge founder Jim Flint and friend (Mark Olley photo).

The Baton Show Lounge has been a go-to place for Chuck and me ever since we were first married. As a matter of fact, this is where I insisted we go on one of our first dates. Owner Jim Flint and the "ladies (and men now)" have been great friends to us since their many years

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The one and only, Chilli Pepper! (Mark Olley photo)

at 436 N. Clark Street. This was a great location for us since we don't live very far from there but their new spot at 4713 N. Broadway is attracting a lot of new fans for this iconic institution. Mark Olley recently visited for a Sunday brunch show and raved about it! He said the performers, ambiance, everything was top rate! They're open Thursday through Sunday at 7 pm with these show times: Thursday and Sunday, 8 and 9:30 pm; Friday and Saturday, 8, 9:30 and 11:30 pm. The Patio Bar & Cafe is open Tuesday through Friday with the bar opening at 4:30 pm and the mini shows beginning at 2 pm, with entertainment every 10-15 minutes. (For more info, click here!) I hope to see you here soon! (And to see some fabulous footage of the club's 42nd anniversary party with Miss Chilli Pepper and friends, see below!) The Baton has been around since 1969!  

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The Chicago Botanic Garden is bringing back its fabulous LIGHTSCAPE, a captivating world of light, color, and sound in an all-new trail designed with our safety in mind. Bask in the glow of thousands of twinkling lights in favorites like the Cathedral of Light and new delights you've never seen before! Make new family memories this year at Lightscape, November 13 through January 3, 2021. This event sold out in its debut season last year so make your plans now! (Info here!)

Lightscape

The Botanic Garden's Lightscape–GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

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Union league boys and girls clubsThe Union League Boys and Girls Clubs will honor some remarkable Chicagoans at its Virtual 43rd Annual Inspirational Heroes Gala on November 7th, 6- 9 pm. The Gala will benefit Chicago youth served by the nonprofit’s critical programming that carried on despite closings due to COVID-19. Guests are invited to enjoy a memorable three-course meal (available for pick-up at the Club prior to the event) prepared by Chef Michael Ponzio drinks, a silent auction and a “Fund the Mission” campaign, as well as a few surprises! For more info, please click here.

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You can bet this virtual event will be a hoot and a night of squeals, screams, thrills and chills! Mark your calendars NOW for Howard Brown Health Center's BIG ORANGE BALL, coming to you virtually on Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30- pre-show, 8-10 pm show. This virtual night will be hosted by Chicago's very own Lucy Stoole and will feature terrifying performances from Coco Sho-Nell, Tenderoni and Muffy Fishbasket plus spooky tunes by a variety of artists. Think virtual "peep holes" that include Electro & Rope Play Room; Ghost Story Room; Pole Dancing Room; Pillow Talk Room; Kink Room; Burlesque Room; Scantily Clad Room and Cruise Room with Lucy Stoole. (Must be 18 or over to participate.) Tickets start at just $20 and all proceeds will support LGBTQ+ care at Howard Brown Health. For tickets and details, click here!

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Best

My "CBD Pleasure for All" Playboy ad.

Special thanks to Playboy, my forever family, for choosing me as an Influencer for their recent campaign, "Pleasure for ALL, CBD Playboy." Chuck swears by CBD for shoulder pain, but this is a whole new way to incorporate CBD into your life! This all-new collection of products is a natural evolution for a brand that has led the cultural conversation on sex and pleasure for decades. The line includes a CBD Bath Bomb, CBD Arousal Spray and CBD Intimacy Gel (that Chuck swears by for his shoulder pain!).

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Playboy Reunion--July 15-18  2021And, on another Playboy note, the International Playboy Bunny Reunion has been rescheduled to July 15-18, 2021. The meet-and-greet weekend is for present or past employees only and will include a boat cruise, a Guys & Dolls party and then the main event on Sunday, July 18. For more info and to register contact, theplayboybunnyreunion@gmail.com.

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Whitney Reynolds

Whitney goes NATIONAL!

Huge congrats to my beautiful friend Whitney Reynolds, whose dream just came true! Starting Jan. 6, the Whitney Reynolds Show will be offered to PBS stations nationwide through the National Educational Telecommunications Association program distribution service! Her fabulous, feel-good show airs weekly at 6:30 pm Mondays on Lakeshore PBS WYIN-Channel 56! Tune in for stories that need to be told. Love and congrats Whitney! I'm so very happy for you!

 

 

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Michael Perich

Michael Perich (The Gnome Colony) is the cover star for Glen Ellyn Living!

And more congrats are in order for two more friends! The Gnome Colony's Michael Perich will shine on the cover of the next Glen Ellyn Living magazine! If you haven't visited his charming store at 485 N. Main St. (in Glen Ellyn), then you are missing out on a lot of "love, whimsy and wishes"! His

Tracey in Hinsdale Living

Tracey Tarantino DiBuono is featured in Hindsdale Living!

philanthropic efforts in the community have also been spotlighted on WGN's "Around Town" with Ana Belaval, among many other news outlets. Another dear friend, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (of ZZAZZ Productions) was highlighted in Hinsdale Living! #WINNING

Congrats to much loved designer Elda de la Rosa, who was honored recently at

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Designer Elda de la Rosa is honored at the Runway Latinx fashion show/fundraiser.

Runway Latinx-Grace within Chaos fashion show/fundraiser. Founded by Arabel Rosales, this major fashion event honored our Elda with the Pivoting in Heels Award! And we all know how much she deserved this!

As many of you have heard, the Chicago Tribune canceled my Candid Candace column after 10 years. I'm sad the nonprofit community won't have a voice there anymore, Trib goodbye imagehowever, I will ALWAYS support Chicago charities, through this blog and any other way I can. I didn't think we could receive more bad news but, in the space of two weeks, we lost our dog and my husband had a serious health issue and then this. I dare not ask what else could happen. Thanks to all my readers who followed me there and here and for the outpouring of support we've received from all of you. We SO felt the love through your uplifting comments, flowers and notes. A special thanks to Fox 32's Sylvia Perez for sharing my story this week (watch it below) and to Robert Feder for his compassionate shout-out in his widely read blog (read it here). I hope you will continue to follow me (and subscribe) at CandidCandace.com where my love for Chicago will always shine through.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Trick or Treat!

 

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