Hi dear friends and welcome to Candid Candace on a new platform, WordPress. Obviously, after 17 years on Typepad, this is going to be a learning curve, but as I’ve said before, this blog isn’t going anywhere so I appreciate your continued support! Typepad abruptly canceled all content at the end of September. All those poor writers who couldn’t save their content by then, will have lost it all. It sort of reminded me of the last two times I lost ALL my writing- the first time when Sherren Leigh, founder of Today’s Chicago Woman decided to just delete years of work on a whim – causing all her writers to lose everything. Then, the second nightmare occurred when the Chicago Tribune yanked Chicago Now out from under the feet of its 300+ writers- causing everyone to lose years of hard work and well-established blogs. So, I guess, if I’ve survived these two messes, I can handle this change.
It will be frustrating, but I’m still here!
Let’s switch to something more heartwarming! The Chicago Lighthouse just hosted its most successful FLAIR event in its history! Special thanks and kudos to stellar honoree Dr. Stacie McClane, returning co-chairs Sherrill Bodine, Sherry Lea Holson and Sheree Schimmer. I was honored to return as co-emcee with Tracey DiBuono (also fashion show producer through her ZZAZZ Productions)
FLAIR co-chairs Sheree Schimmer, Sherry Lea Holson, honoree Dr. Stacey McClane, Janet Szlyk (Lighthouse president/CEO), emcee/show producer Tracey Dibuono and this author (co-emcee).
The event featured a lively reception, the organization’s largest silent auction and a diverse runway show followed by a luncheon, all in support of the Lighthouse’s mission. Since its inception in 2014, FLAIR has been celebrated as Chicago’s most inclusive fashion showcase, inviting models of varying abilities to share the spotlight on the runway. The show brings together local designers, retailers, business leaders and supporters to help raise funds for more than 40 Lighthouse services ranging from early intervention and low-vision exams to vocational training and youth education.
Tim Paul, star of ‘I’m Only Blind’ doc with director Kamelya Alexan. (Mila Samokhina photo)
The fashion show featured a diverse array of designers and retailers, culminating in a grand finale presented by Macy’s State Street. Participating in the show were Anne Fontaine, Contessa Bottega, Lafayette 148, Lauren Lein, Mario Pinto, Menotti Couture, NINA and Mira Couture.
Lead sponsors for the event included Paula Borg and Tom Stemwedel, Sherry Lea and Richard Holson III and Dr. Stacie McClane and Jerry Michaelson with Dr. Andrew Barrer as the Runway Sponsor.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and friends enjoying the event. (Mila Samokhina photo)
Roberta Kramer, Heritage Auctions senior VP strategy and business development, energetically conducted the paddle raise adding even more revenue to the event’s fundraising goals. The final increment, $120, was asked in honor of the organization’s upcoming 120th anniversary.CC
Guests left with packed goodie bags that contained Rice Krispie treats from Eli’s Cheesecake Company and so much more! The silent auction was the largest to date with 59 offerings from Piccolo Sogno, Neiman Marcus, Steak 48, Waldorf Astoria, Maria Pinto, Porchlight Music Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Gene & Georgetti, Chicago White Sox, Lookingglass Theatre Company, Music of the Baroque, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Adler Planetarium, portraitist Rosemary Fanti, Brookfield Zoo, Remy Bumppo Think Theatre, Giordano Dance Company, Lincoln Park Zoo, Goodman Theatre and more. Hair and makeup touchups were donated by Evelyn Levin, Hair Artistry by Evelyn. Please remember these generous donors in your wanderings.
FLAIR 2025 was a testament to the power of fashion to bring people together for a common cause. It underscored the importance of inclusivity and community support in driving meaningful change. The event not only showcased the latest in fashion but also highlighted the ongoing efforts of The Chicago Lighthouse to serve and empower individuals with disabilities. Congrats to all who participated! (ChicagoLighthouse.org)
Honoree Dr. Stacie McClane and family.
Janet Mandell, Wayne Harth and Giuliana Rancic add sparkle to Fairmont Chicago.
Fairmont Chicago was buzzing with energy and elegance on Sept. 23 as Giuliana Rancic and Janet Lee Mandell joined forces for an unforgettable night of fashion, philanthropy and sparkle. Giuliana, celebrity, reporter, breast cancer survivor, fashion designer and entrepreneur, was joined by Janet, founder of the luxe rental boutique Janet Mandell, to celebrate the launch ofG by Giuliana on HSN and debut Giuliana Prosecco.
With friends Bunny Frum, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, Wayne Harth and Karly McGowan.
Guests mingled over flutes of bubbly and caviar with cameras flashing and laughter in the air. Giuliana shared her own breast cancer journey with raw honesty, reminding everyone of the strength behind her smile. A portion of sales from her HSN line and the evening’s prosecco will go to The Pink Agenda (a nonprofit that supports breast cancer research), via Giuliana’s Fab-U-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to women undergoing cancer treatment. Fairmont’s GM, Nick OrRico, announced the hotel would also contribute part of its proceeds of the bar’s prosecco sales to the same cause.
Fairmont Chicago GM Nick OrRico and Giuliana Rancic.
Janet Mandell brought her signature touch of high fashion and smart sustainability to the mix. Her company, founded in 2018, offers a curated luxury wardrobe rental experience from her flagship in Chicago on Michigan Avenue to Los Angeles and New York City. She’s pushing the envelope further with new consignment and AI-driven virtual try-on features to deepen the “circular fashion” model according to FashionUnited. She and Giuliana made the room feel like a couture salon, inclusive and electric.
With Bunny Frum, Jennifer Sutton Brieva and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas.
In the room were some of Chicago’s finest: Declan and Angela McGovern, Sylvia Perez, Susanna Wickham, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, Bunny Frum, Dorothy Dziubasik, Kathy Kozminske, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and multitalented Cortney Hall, who dazzled on the runway. Wayne Harth of Kaleidoscope Vue Consulting produced the evening with polish and flair.
Music of the Baroque Executive Director Declan McGovern and wife Angela, with Sylvia Perez.
Giuliana’s cancer journey was woven into every part of the evening. In 2011, after a routine mammogram (initially tied to her infertility treatment), she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36, even though she had no family history. A lumpectomy failed to remove all malignant tissue, so she opted for a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Over the years, she has emphasized that openness and early detection matter and she advocates tirelessly for women to know their bodies and get screened.
Stunning G by Giuliana Black Label faux zebra coat can be found on HSN for $149.95.
Janet Mandell’s vision has always been about more than renting designer dresses. She sees fashion as an experience that brings empowerment. By bringing couture-level service (on-site tailoring, styling, etc.) to the rental world, she helps women feel extraordinary without the financial burden of owning every gown. Her recent moves into consignment and AI try-ons reinforce her belief that luxury can be sustainable and that fashion can be both aspirational and respectful of the planet.That night at the Fairmont, fashion and heart were inseparable. The room glowed not only with style, but with generosity, community and shared purpose. It’s proof that when visionaries like Giuliana and Janet bring people together, magic happens and good is born from glamour.
Former Mayor Rich Daley will be honored on Oct. 30 at Navy Pier.
Navy Pier is set to host a gala event titled “A Chicago ExPIERience” on October 30, honoring former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley for his pivotal role in the 1995 redevelopment of the iconic lakefront destination. This celebration will reflect on the transformation that revitalized Navy Pier, turning it into a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. The evening will pay tribute to Mayor Daley’s leadership, influence, and innovation that once again made Navy Pier the heart of the Chicago experience.
The gala will offer guests an immersive journey back to the mid-1990s, capturing the excitement and wonder of the Pier’s revitalization. There will be surprise performances and “carnival classics.” Attendees will experience the fun and wonder that revitalized the Pier 30 years ago and continues to inspire millions from across the globe to this day.
The event will be co-chaired by Marilynn Gardner (Navy Pier President/CEO), Jennifer Steans (Board Chair), John Schmidt, Nora Daley, Kelly Welsh and Eric Smith. For more information about the event and to explore sponsorship opportunities, please visit Navy Pier’s official gala page here.
World Fashion Festival opens with a dance by members of the Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater. (Photo by Maddie Brooks)
World Fashion Festival launched its 2025 edition with an opening night at Macy’s State Street Sept. 18, turning the historic Walnut Room into a grand stage for fashion, dance and cultural exchange. The night began with a flamenco-inspired performance that combined live dance with runway presentations. Under the theme “A Night of Passion, Rhythm & Couture,” designers drew from Spanish traditions while incorporating modern styles to create a dynamic link between movement and fashion.
Hosts Lourdes Duarte and Juan Carlos Navarette interview Daniel Jemberu (from Ethiopia) after he debuted his designs at World Fashion Festival.
The program, co-hosted by WGN-TV’s Lourdes Durate and NBC-5’s Juan Carlos Navarette, also served as a fundraiser for Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, connecting the artistic energy of the evening to a broader cultural mission. Students from Columbia College Chicago were involved in production and staging, gaining real-world experience in presenting a large-scale fashion event.
This author accepts the Iconic Legacy Award from World Fashion Festival founder Cesar Rolon. (Maddie Brooks photo)
Designers featured on opening night included Columbia College student Senbi Turner, Debag of Jordan/Palestine, Bela Lobo of Argentina and Daniel Jemberu from Ethiopia. Guests ranged from fashion enthusiasts to civic leaders and cultural figures, who gathered to see these international and emerging designers make their Chicago debuts. During the evening, Chicago Star Associate Publisher Candace Jordan (this author), received the Iconic Legacy Award, presented by festival founder Cesar Rolón. Other honorees throughout the event were Terisa Griffin and Triphena Jeton Johnson.
Elegant design by Debag (from Jordan/Palestine) (Maddie Brooks photo)
The three-day event continued on Sept. 19 with a fashionable fundraiser celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Chicago International Salsa Congress, followed on Sept. 20 by the finale, “A Night of Elegance, Nostalgia and High Fashion,” a tribute to Diana Ross and the glamour of Black and Latino fashion narratives. Other presenting designers included Katya Zol, Valentina Musa, Oemah Etnik, Jack Vallant, Bryan Agosto, Claudia Arce, Edreu Alaban and Thomas Albers. The event also included multiple fashion pop-ups and workshops.
Rolón, who created and produces the festival, was central to the event. His leadership continues to drive its mission of promoting fashion as a platform for cultural exchanges and social impact. He also serves as the festival’s public face, managing connections with designers, sponsors, models and institutions. Rolón is also the founder of Latino Fashion Week.
And that’s a wrap for 2025 World Fashion Festival! (Maddie Brooks photo)
World Fashion Festival, the largest global fashion festival in the Midwest, is an annual three-day international showcase dedicated to elevating emerging designers and building connections across fashion communities. (worldfashionfestival.org)
EYEWIGS photo shoot with Leo Visuals, creator Timothy Hawkins and photog Charan Ingram.
I want to give a shout-out to my stylish friend Timothy Hawkins! His new EYEWIGS eyewear launch is killin’ it! I’m so proud to be a brand ambassador. Besides, being stylish, every pair has an engraved star on the arm and an inspiring phrase inside the frame.
He’s thought of everything! Timothy is an Emmy Award-winning stylist with more than 15 years of experience spanning television, film and live productions. Beginning in Chicago with the Steve Harvey Show and Judge Mathis, his career has grown to include projects like Power, Disney’s Saturdays, NBA All-Star Weekend and other national campaigns. He is now channeling his passion for eyewear into EYEWIGS, a luxury brand inspired by his belief that frames, like wigs, can reinvent identity and presence. This photo shoot, with the one and only Charan Ingram (with Leo Visuals on the set), was a dream! Please check out the fabulous EYEWIGS brand here!
Former First Lady Amy Eshleman, former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Chicago State University Trustee John Robak and civic leader Glenn Eden.
Congrats to outgoing Chicago State University Foundation Board Chair and current university Trustee John Robak. I had the wonderful opportunity to attend my first CSUF event, “1stGEN Scholarship Gala: Determined” at the Geraghty recently and it was an inspiration. Honorees included Toni Preckwinkle, Robin Steans and Jose Munoz. (More coverage coming in Crain’s Chicago Business). Congrats to ALL!
“Broken Wings” performance. (Photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Ballet Arizona)
This November, The Joffrey Ballet presents Joffrey at the Harris: Matters of the Heart at the Harris Theater (Nov. 6–9). The two-act program explores love, identity, and resilience through two distinct works: Wabash & You, a world premiere by Chanel DaSilva featuring live music from The Main Squeeze, and Broken Wings by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, inspired by Frida Kahlo’s life and art. Performances run Thursday–Sunday, with tickets starting at $46. This engagement celebrates Joffrey’s 30th year in Chicago and its enduring partnership with the Harris Theater. (Tickets/more info here)
As my friends know, I live for the holiday season and there's no better place to experience it than right here in the Windy City! And, although I don't quite have the weather I want yet- a soft, sparkling blanket of snow – I'm still very thankful for what we have. I’m glad we have the Christkindlmarket back as I’m a huge fan (through Dec. 24). I love the festive feeling, the food and the one-of-a-kind ornaments. And yes, every year, I pick up one of the new mugs (it’s now become a tradition and, as Chuck says, yet another collection for me.) The tree is up at Macy’s (still Marshall Field’s to me) and the Walnut Room beckons for our annual Christmas luncheon. This city shines so brightly during the holidays; it thrills me to see the homes decorated, the pop-ups all around town and all the fun-filled parties with friends to look forward to. Our tree is up and our home is so cozy and cheerful. And, even though it’s a complete hassle getting all the decor out of storage and dragging it home; once it’s set up- all the stress just melts away. (We have a Balsam Hills flip tree and decorating has never been easier!) My wish for Santa this year will be a little different than years’ past. We’ve had a tough few years, not only in Chicago, but in the country and the world. I believe in biorhythms and feel like we are all due for an uptick in our charts. I hope/wish we can all come together in a friendlier way and agree to accept each other’s differences as well as celebrate our commonalities. Sounds simplistic, but if anyone can do it, Santa can! I will be putting out extra milk and cookies. Here’s to a brighter, happier, healthier and more prosperous future for us all! _______________________________________________________________________________
View down Oak St. from atop the Enjoy Illinois bus.
For the 33rd annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, people from across the country turned out in record numbers to see the magic along the Mag Mile. This iconic event, the largest evening parade in the U.S., delivered festive surprises that had onlookers
Santa in his sleigh. (Photo by Ragulikethesauce)
cheering from start to finish. This year, mega balloons made their debut, stealing the show with two beloved Muppets. Towering 60 feet tall, Kermit the Frog floated alongside his rambunctious 50-ft-tall bandmate, Animal,
Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of Illinois Dept. of Tourism on Enjoy Illinois bus.
charming spectators of all ages. Adding to the excitement, the Magnificent Mile Association upgraded all one million twinkling lights along the route to maximize their brilliance across more than 200 trees, according to President and CEO, Kimberly Bares. My husband Chuck and I were honored to be invited onboard the Enjoy Illinois bus which was an experience we will never forget! Two years ago, we rode
Lisa Fielding, WBBM News Radio, enjoying the parade.
on the My Eye Dr. bus (thank you Michael Caputo) and the crowds this year were noticeably larger which was so good to see! Chicago is slowly coming out of the darkness of Covid and showing up in droves; some estimates put the number at nearly 1 million. Looking down on that sea of smiling faces with so many kids dressed in holiday attire, was so heartwarming. Chicago is certainly dressed for the holidays; there were soaring searchlights, giant snowflake projections on the Wrigley Building and a grand fireworks finale.This year’s
floats were packed with show-stopping entertainment.
Grant DePorter and Kimberly Bares, President/CEO Mag Mile Assn.
Highlights included performances by disco legends The Former Ladies of Chic, the funk-driven Cameo, the harmonious Sharpe Family Singers, and the nostalgic beats of Quad City DJs. On the Enjoy Illinois float, Chicago Blackhawks DJ Lee Michaels kept the party alive as we all waved silver and blue pom-poms down the Mag Mile. Adding to the excitement
Beth Heller, marketing genius.
were seven high-energy marching bands from across the country and the beloved Rudolph, carried by athletes and families from Special Olympics Illinois. Following the parade, the festivities continued with a private after-party at the Fairmont Chicago, hosted by title sponsor Wintrust. Guests were treated to a feast featuring a prime rib carving station, flaming eggnog, s’mores and other decadent desserts. The room was buzzing with holiday cheer as notable attendees mingled, including Grant DePorter, Beth Heller,
With Lisa Fielding, Marla Cichowski and Michelle Mekky.
Daniel Thomas, Kimberly Bares, Marla Cichowski, Lisa Fielding, Michelle Mekky, John and Martha Idler, Rich Gamble, Gail Spreen, Chelsea Harvey, Mary Ann Rose, Heinz Kern, Peggy and Bill Martay, and others. With Chicago still emerging from the shadows of COVID, the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival proved the city’s resilience and vibrant spirit. A special thank-you goes out to the event’s generous sponsors—title sponsor Wintrust Financial Corporation and presenting sponsors Enjoy Illinois, Chicagoland Kia Dealers and Dunkin’—for bringing holiday magic to the heart of the city. Chicago, you’ve outdone yourself. Until next year, let the holiday cheer shine bright!
SC President Bobbi Panter, gala co-chair Alex Meneses, lead sponsor Sherrill Bodine and Myra Reilly. (Photo by John Reilly Photography)
TheService Club of Chicago’s annual gala, “Timeless Elegance,,” celebrated 134 years of giving on Nov. 2, at the Ritz-Carlton. Co-chaired by members Alex Meneses and Kelly Uihlein, the event is the nonprofit's largest fundraiser, supporting its Philanthropic Grant Program. During the evening, special members were
Bobbi Panter and SC co-chairs Alex Meneses and Kelly Uihlein. (Photo by Candace)
spotlighted and past grantees shared the impact The Service Club has made in their lives. Celebrity guests included Joe Minosa from Chicago Fire, Diana-Maria Riva from Dead to Me and Glamorous, Lisa Vidal from Grey’s Anatomy and local
Kathleen Haines-Finley, Karen Peters, Debi Catenacci and Lezley Hodes.
WGN newscaster Lourdes Duarte (who also won an Emmy that night). Co-chairs Meneses and Uihlein welcomed guests, expressed gratitude to the host committee and shared that, last year, the organization awarded nearly $1 million in grants to 47 nonprofits! Service Club President Bobbi Panter highlighted the organization’s 134-year legacy, saying, “We will continue to expand our reach, deepen our impact and make a difference in countless lives.” Panter then introduced a video featuring past grantees sharing how the organization’s support has positively affected their lives. Guests began the evening with a red-carpet reception and cocktail hour, followed by dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions. Kerry Sayers conducted the live auction that included stays at five-star hotels in Paris, Beverly Hills, and New York; couture items like jewelry and furs; curated wine
Philip Emigh and Bruce Haas.
collections; spa and beauty packages; sports memorabilia; tickets to sporting events and more. Service Club members consistently provide outstanding support for the organization’s events. This year’s gala standouts included Myra and John Reilly, who brought the Tribute Book to life and provided event photography. Donna Flynn and the committee secured silent auction items, while Lauren Lein and Auxiliary Board President Carli Kelly sourced
Lauren Lein, Lisa Huber and Sherrill Bodine.
items for the gift bags. Laura Wallace, Dianne Olsen and the 2024 Provisional Class sold raffle tickets. Major donors included Sherrill Bodine, Alex Meneses and John
Georgia Marsha, Dean and Sally Jo Pfaff.
Simpson, Sally Jo and Dean Pfaff, Kelly Uihlein, Patty Marx, Northern Trust Bank and The Nat. P. Ozmon Family Foundation and others. The Party Faithful band kept the crowd on their feet to the conclusion of the evening. The event raised over $400,000 for The Service Club of Chicago’s Philanthropic Grant Program that supports, enhances and expands agency programs throughout the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients span social service, cultural, educational, and civic fields, serving individuals across the region. Founded in 1890, the nonprofit is an all-women, all-volunteer organization.
The Chicago Public Library Foundation’s annual gala lit up the UIC Dorin Forum, raising over $1.2 million to support programs across the city’s 81 library branches. Themed “Neverending Transformation,” the night honored literary and artistic trailblazers. This
Co-chairs Kimberley Goode and Michael Fassnacht.
Chance the Rapper, Arts Award recipient, with Linda Johnson Rice, CPL board chair.
year’s Carl Sandburg Literary Award went to bestselling author Ann Patchett, whose works, including Tom Lake, have captivated readers worldwide. Patchett expressed her gratitude, crediting Carl Sandburg as a literary hero who, like libraries, speaks for everyone. Cristina Henríquez, known for The Book of Unknown Americans, received the 21st Century Award, celebrating her literary impact and personal ties to public libraries. Chicago’s own Chance the Rapper was
Chris Brown Cristina Henriquez and Brenda Bui. (Lynn Renee Photography)
recognized with the Arts Award for his music and community work. Reflecting on his start at the Harold Washington Library’s YOUmedia space, Chance shared, “Libraries gave me a space to grow.” The evening, co-
Maggie Baczkowski Shermann 'Dilla' Thomas Wendy Berger and Alexi Giannoulias.
chaired by Michael Fassnacht and Kimberley Goode and produced by Donna La Pietra, featured appearances by over 40 celebrated authors, including Rick Bayless, Jonathan Eig, Eve L. Ewing, Shelby Van Pelt, Melissa Harris, Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, First Lady of Illinois M.K. Pritzker, Peter Sagal, Nami Mun, Bill Kurtis (who also served returned as event emcee), Liz Taylor and more. Attendees enjoyed an evening of dining, mingling, and an insightful Q&A with Patchett hosted by NPR’s Scott Simon. The event underscored the Foundation’s mission to fund critical library initiatives, from early literacy to career programs, with the Carl Sandburg Literary Awards alone raising over $22 million since their inception.
Ann Patchett, Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, with NPR's Scott Simon. (Lynn Renee Photography)
The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation’s annual Fall Benefit, “An Evening of Hope,” brought together 800 guests at Theater on the Lake, raising an incredible $1.2
Co-chairs Dana Sanders and Jenny Stevens with Guerdy Abraira (center). (Photo by Sheri Whitko)
million for breast cancer research! Dr. Olusimbo Ige, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, was honored for her commitment to equitable breast cancer care, alongside special (beautiful) guest
Guerdy Abraira, Suzanne LeMignot, Laura Sage, Lisa Fielding and Beth Heller.
Guerdy Abraira from “The Real Housewives of Miami”, who shared her story as a breast cancer survivor and championed early detection. The event, co-chaired by Dana Sanders and Jenny Stevens, featured Matthew Hoffman’s iconic 'BIG hope' sculpture, temporarily relocated from Michigan Avenue, which served as a powerful tribute to those impacted by breast cancer. Through partnerships with top Chicago hospitals, the Lynn Sage Foundation is driving breakthroughs in treatment access. Yet, as the American Cancer Society notes, breast cancer still affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S., underlining the ongoing need for research and support. “Everyone deserves hope and access to lifesaving care,” said co-founder Laura Sage, as the foundation works tirelessly to make that a reality.
Halee Sage, Laura Sage, Dylan Hoffman, 'Hope' sculpture artist Matthew Hoffman and Guerdy Abraira. (Photo by Sheri Whitko)
Chicago became the Hollywood of the Midwest when Oscar-winning director and Chicago native Robert Zemeckis returned home to accept the prestigious Founder’s
Zsa Zsa, Leslie and Bob Zemeckis.
Legacy Award at the 60th Chicago International Film Festival! The award was presented by festival founder
Robert Zemeckis and longtime friend, Michael Kutza, CIFF founder.
Michael Kutza at the Music Box Theatre, where Zemeckis’ new film Here—reuniting him with Forrest Gump stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright—was screened. Fans packed the theater for this exciting closing-night event. Zemeckis, accompanied by his beautiful wife Leslie and daughter Zsa Zsa (both in the film), was warmly welcomed on stage by CIFF Artistic Director Mimi Plauché and Managing Director Vivian Teng. They celebrated the filmmaker’s iconic work on Forrest Gump, Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and more. Ahead of the screening, Zemeckis mingled with fans at a VIP reception and charmed attendees on the Red Carpet. Later, he joined Kutza and family for dinner at RL, capping off a memorable night before heading to New York to support Back to the Future: The Musical. The Chicago International Film Festival, presented by Cinema/Chicago, fosters global connections through film, making this award a perfect honor for Zemeckis and his unforgettable storytelling.
Mimi Plauche, Robert Zemeckis, Michael Kutza, Leslie Zemeckis, Zsa Zsa Zemeckis and Vivian Teng. (Photo by Timothy Schmidt)
Eric Kircherer, Manolis Alpogianis, George Alpogianis and performance artist Luna La Catrina.
Chef Art Smith opened his home on Friday, Nov. 1 for a Dia de los Muertos celebration. The charming house he shares with his husband/artist Jesus Salgueiro in Hyde Park was packed to the rafters with friends who turned out to honor the past and celebrate the present
Chef Art Smith with some young partygoers.
together. The party started as soon as you entered the space – there were performance artists, dramatically painted with ‘Day of the Dead’ makeup; candles; skull sculptures; live music and colorful décor and flowers (by Kyle Hustedt of Bukiety Floral). The smells from the kitchen were so tantalizing with multiple top chefs, headed up by Chef Hector Guerrero (of Art Smith Company) and Art, cooking traditional DOD dishes
Mariachi Los Pumas performed in the backyard.
that featured Pan de Muerto (Mexican bread of the dead); beef tamales, turkey pozole, chicken mole, homemade tortillas, taquitos, enchiladas, rice and beans, flan and fruit, sugar skulls, cookies and so much more. Downstairs in the backyard, the party spilled over with guests enjoying live music by the Mariachi Los Pumas,
Exotic greeter.
who were performing by candlelight and twinkling lights. A wood-stoked pizza oven was filled with custom-made pizzas by Chef Christopher de la Cueva (of Chef Art Smith’s Reunion restaurant). A taco food truck stood nearby in the driveway, as if more food was needed! In one of the front rooms, a make-up artist
Great food and gorgeous decor.
happily painted everyone in “sugar skull catrina makeup” (elaborate skull makeup to honor the dead). In another room, an elaborate ofrenda (altar), designed by Melanie Lopez of Somos Arte Chicago, was decorated with candles and photos of lost loved ones. Chef Art encouraged all guests to bring a photo. My husband Chuck and I placed photos of our late moms and my late cousins on it. A large photo of Chef Art and his friend Chilli Pepper was front and center. Sadly, even a baby photo was seen there. And, in honor of his late friend Chilli, Art introduced a fantastic
Colorful guests.
performance artist, Luna La Catrina, dressed as the “goddess of death” in an extraordinary sparkling red costume with skulls, lit candles, feathers and an elaborate headdress. She graciously posed for photos with all who asked. And, in true Art Smith fashion, everything about the party had a
Reunion Chef Hector Guerrero making magic in the kitchen.
philanthropic bent. All items and experiences came from nonprofits or were purchased from small Mexican businesses. Chef Art shared his thoughts on Dia de los Muertos, “There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t cry for them [late friends and family] or think about them. It took two movies, Coco and Remember Me, to teach America and the world about this beautiful custom.” Dia de los Muertos is a two-day holiday that reunites the living and dead. Families create ofrendas (offerings) to honor their departed family members. It’s a rare holiday for celebrating both death and life that is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed. It is also observed in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage.
“Candid Candace – The Podcast!” Get ready for a jam-packed holiday extravaganza! My co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I are unwrapping all the festive fun coming to the Windy City, along with thrilling recaps of recent standout events. Here’s a sneak peek at
Prolific author, John St. Augustine.
what’s under the podcast tree: Behind the scenes at the PAWS Fur Ball, where one show- stopping auction item fetched a jaw-dropping $67K; an exclusive chat with legendary filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, fresh off receiving the Founder’s Legacy Award at the Chicago International Film Festival; Tyson fight talk—the hits, the hype, and the heartbreak; preview of the magic at Navy Pier’s “Light Up the Lake”; view from the top, Wintrust’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the largest evening parade in the country; The 900 Shops’ "Illuminate 900" event; what’s fresh at the Christkindlmarket and the festive finds at Randolph Street Market’s December edition (Coming Dec. 14/15). Plus, the scoop on how you could win $250,000 in furniture, thanks to Darvin Furniture & Mattress—yes, really! And if that’s not enough, John delivers a heartfelt and captivating tale of his travels through Paris, London and Normandy. This is holiday cheer with a twist, and you won’t find this kind of inside scoop anywhere else. So, grab a cozy spot, press play and let’s dive into the season together! Listen here!
I'm excited to announce I'm a regular contributor now to WGN Radio 720 AM, thanks to the legendary newsman Rick Kogan! His great show, "After Hours with Rick Kogan," covers Chicago from top to bottom and side to side every Sunday! You don't want to miss it from 5-7 pm! Here's our latest segment!
The 900 Shops delivered the first tree lighting on the avenue with its "Illuminate 900 event," Make-A-Wish Illinois' biggest holiday fundraiser! Set in a winter wonderland on all levels, the experience included holiday activations, delicious food and drink, the ZZAZZETTES, toy soldiers, Ava Fain, Ballet Chicago and SANTA, all wrapped up in a holiday bow! The 900 Shops first presented this unique experience in 2016 and, since then, have raised over $116,000 for charity!
The toy soldiers thrilled young and old alike at this year's 900 Shops' "Illuminate 900" event.
For the 21st year Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is celebrating ethnic holiday traditions of nearly 100 different nationalities at the “Christmas Trees from Around the World” display at her office. The annual celebration of cultural diversity showcases handcrafted ornaments and decorations. “Christmas Trees from Around the World” is a display of 3-foot trees decorated by members of various ethnic and religious communities. Pappas invites the public to celebrate Christmas with music and festivities from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Treasurer’s Office, 118 N. Clark St., Room 112, Chicago. (RSVP by email at CCTO@cookcountytreasurer.com)
Navy Pier's "Light Up the Lake 2024," will be the most thrill- and chill-packed edition of its popular, Pier-wide holiday celebration yet! Kicking off on Friday, November 29, and running through January 5, this year’s Light Up the Lake festivities will include an eclectic array of immersive seasonal experiences, accented by award-winning fireworks, first-of-their-kind holiday drone shows and millions of dazzling lights. Click here for ALL the exciting details!
There are a lot of fun events coming up, so be sure to mark your calendars for: The Service Club of Chicago's Holiday Luncheon on Dec. 3 at the Union League Club; Catholic Charities St. Nick Ball on Dec. 6 at the Hilton Chicago; WINGS "Sweet Home Chicago" event on Dec. 8 at the Four Seasons; the last Randolph Street Marketof the year on Dec. 14/15 and Music of the Baroque's "Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts beginning Dec. 19 (all details here).
And, last but not least, my new advertiser Darvin Furniture & Mattress is offering a great gift for Christmas- how about winning $250,000 in furniture and mattresses! Their promotion is going on now through Dec. 8 (the names will be called at noon, winners need not be present to win.) Visit the store to register! Find all the details here!
And, that's a wrap! Candid Candace is now celebrating 16 years as Chicago's first and longest running lifestyle blog and, for that, I thank YOU! I will be back soon with more fun from the Windy City and beyond. In the meantime, stay happy, positive, healthy and safe as we celebrate the season together!
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. Jack Frost's 'Winter Walk' opens Dec. 29 at 170 N. Green St. Here's a clip from 2021 on Candid Candace TV of what that experience looks like.
I hope you've missed me? I know I've missed you! Who knew these passing seasons would explode with so many things to do and events to cover?! I'm gonna catch you up here now. In the meantime, I hope you've enjoyed the magic of summer like we have. My friend Bonnie Spurlock shared a beautiful water-color by artist Glenn Galan titled "Fireflies on a Summer Night" that perfectly captures the nostalgia of summers' past. (Glenn's website is a treasure trove of images like this that I highly recommend you check out.)
I'm amazed at how much the latest events and fundraisers have stepped up their decor, planning and fundraising efforts. I'm referring to The Joffrey Ballet's "Midsummer Celebration"; MCA's ArtEdge party; Steppenwolf's starry night; the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation fashion show and so much more. If you weren't able to attend, not to worry, I will tell you what you missed! That's what I'm here for. 🙂______________________________________________________________________
Robert Block, Renata Block, Paula Fasseas, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock.
The PAWS Chicago Beach Party, one of the summer's most anticipated pet-friendly events, returned to Offshore at Navy Pier with a burst of tropical flair. Pups
With Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and Leslie Hindman.
in vibrant Hawaiian shirts and leis matched their owners' festive attire, turning the "world's largest rooftop bar" into a lively lakefront luau. Under a Windex-blue sky and with a gentle summer breeze, the event provided the perfect backdrop to raise funds for
Lisa Dent, Bonnie Spurlock, Drew Fasseas, Alexis Fasseas and Bruce Crown.
PAWS' no-kill program for homeless animals. The event welcomed nearly 400 human supporters, many with their four-legged companions in tow. Festivities began with a cocktail reception where partygoers enjoyed views of the Chicago skyline as well as packed silent auction tables. Country radio Hall of Famer
Sylvia Perez and Susanna Wickham, CEO PAWS Chicago.
Lisa Dent of WGN Radio and entertainment reporter Jake Hamilton of Fox 32 Chicago co-emceed the event, introducing PAWS Chicago co-founder Paula Fasseas and CEO Susanna Wickham. Fasseas
Phillip Emigh, KT Sandberg, Bruce Haas and friends.
expressed heartfelt gratitude to supporters and introduced Jasper, a PAWS pup who triumphed over parvovirus thanks to the organization's dedicated care. She also highlighted PAWS' commitment to rescuing parvovirus-infected puppies and finding them loving homes. “Every day, PAWS Chicago continues high-volume animal transfers out of Chicago Animal Care & Control, rescuing nearly 40% of the cats and dogs that are transferred out,” Fasseas
Inaugural Community Engagement Award winners – with Bill Jacobs.
shared. “We also launched 360@CACC, a program that has our staff onsite at the city shelter seven days a week.”
Glam Beach Party guests.
The inaugural Community Engagement Award was presented to Bill Jacobs, founder of Piece Pizzeria & Brewery in Wicker Park, and this author, recognizing their contributions to the cause. “Homeless and at-risk pets are a societal issue,” Jacobs said. “It is our obligation to care for these beautiful animals and give them a chance.” Chuck and I, along with our Chihuahua Daisy, attended the first PAWS Fur Ball at Escada in 2002 and have been fans, friends and supporters ever since. The evening's highlights
Tom McGuire and Tom Hackett with Leslie Hindman.
included an adoptable dogs' showcase and a lively auction
Glam Beach Party guests.
and paddle raise led by auctioneer David Goodman. Guests and their pets indulged in lavish dinner buffets, while furry friends enjoyed pampering at the dog spa, complete with relaxing massages. Notable attendees included Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff, Leslie Hindman, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Melissa and Michael Canning, Judy and Howard Tullman, Barbara Rinella, Wayne Gailis, Renata and Robert Block, Sylvia Perez
Judy Tullman, Wayne Gailis, Howard Tullman and friend.
and daughter Magali Blasdell, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Nancy and Michael Timmers, Alexis Fasseas, Suzanne
Who's a good boy?
LeMignot, Tom Hacket and Tom McGuire, Bruce Crown, Drew Fasseas, Jim Sharp, Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas, KT Sandburg, and many more. Sponsors such as Ed and Denise Raddatz, Pam Zunker-Myerson and RobertZunker, and the Spurlocks and Tullmans ensured the event's success. Since its founding in 1997, PAWS Chicago has dramatically reduced homeless pet euthanasia in the city by 90.2 percent, finding homes for over 84,000 pets and providing more than 16,000 low- or no-cost spay/neuter surgeries each year. The organization's tireless efforts continue to make a significant impact on the lives of pets and their families in Chicago. (Photos by PAWS, Bonnie Spurlock and me) ______________________________________________________________________
HCRF founder Eleni Bousis (center) with Charlene and Scott Seaman.
Rain sure didn’t dampen the spirits of guests who attended the 10th anniversary of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation and its fashionable fundraiser held appropriately in Maggie Daley Park Cancer Survivor’s
Chuck Jordan and Michael Norris.
Garden. The beautiful venue reflected the inspiration and mission behind the event, to find a cure for cancer. The sold-out fundraiser was co-chaired by Pam Capitanini, Janell Adames and Jacquelyn McMahon Petrovich and co-emceed by Kelley Flanagan (“The Bachelor”) and moi. It supported the important work of Dr. Leonidas Platanias and
Dr. Leonidas Platanias and family/friends.
his team at Lurie Cancer Center of Northwestern University who are working on out-of-the-box research to find a cure. “Science is advancing fast, and it is only a matter of time before new cures for various types of cancers emerge. The challenge lies in accelerating the process because with every passing minute, lives are at
Dr. Leonidas Platanias enjoying the ZZAZZ fashion show.
stake, “ he said. A reception featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres among the flowers, with a display of jewelry by Sofoklis Jewels of Greece, custom-made especially for the foundation. Guests were dressed in their finest with a focus on florals. As they entered the venue, they were greeted by a performer dressed as angel with
Co-emcee Kelley Flanagan (R) with mom and friend.
an array of pricey cars from Perillo set up on Randolph St. Electric violinists provided the background music.The night turned cool following a week of heat, but despite the respite, rain fell briefly before the fashion show began. Guests took it in stride as HCRF staff provided welcome umbrellas. Dinner, provided by Rosebud, was served family-style and included rigatoni alla vodka, salmon
Two angels- Tina Hock.
limone, chicken Vesuvio, Greek salad and fanciful desserts. The rain stopped in time for a chic fashion show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions (Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with support
Kristine Farra, her beautiful daughter and cute friend.
from Nancy Long, Natalie Roppo and DJ Akib) with beautiful looks from Peach Carr Designs, Elda de la Rosa, Rede Mas, Anne Fontaine, Contessa Bottega, Menotti Couture, Sylwia Designs, Mira Couture and Lepa Boutique. Eleni Bousis, founder/ event chair, shared, “We are here to support Dr. Platanias and his team at Lurie Cancer Centerof Northwestern University who are at the forefront of
HCRF founder Eleni Bousis and Greek Dignitary.
groundbreaking research, including enhancing tumor-killing capabilities and cancer-curing potential; advancing basic research in immunology and immunotherapy for treating malignant melanoma; targeting cell signaling pathways in leukemia and solid cancers; developing novel approaches to tackle aggressive cancers such as pancreatic and brain cancer and building the field of immuno-metabolism in cancer research.” A surprise check for $250,000 was donated to Dr. Platanias by the Thorek Memorial Foundation to support his research. The Lurie Cancer Center, led by Dr. Platanias, is a national leader in the advancement of cancer treatments and was named one of the top 10 leading academic comprehensive cancer centers in the country by US News and World Report. (hcrfwingstocure.org)
Bill Wolf, Meredith Bluhm-Wolf (co-chair), Robin Loewenberg Tebbe (co-chair) and Mark Tebbe. (Photo by Jeremy Lawson)
The Museum of Contemporary Art is known for it’s cutting-edge, over the top ArtEdge events, but I must say, this year they outdid themselves. It was a breathtaking and sexy 90-minute show that included burlesque, drag
Marko Iglendza, Robin Tebbe and Neal Zucker.
stars, striptease, pole-dancing and so much more. Held at the museum, over 400 guests turned out to help raise $1.7 million for programming and exhibitions. The party began in the lobby where a buffet offered a mile-long stretch of treats that included sushi, hamburgers, pasta, hors d’oeuvres, everything you can imagine- all served under a canopy of trees bedecked in twinkling lights. Kudos to co-chairs Robin Loewenberg Tebbe and Meredith-Bluhm Wolf and board chair Cari Sacks for “bringin’ it” – the crowd was enthralled and not a soul left the tent during the performance that included artists from Tease Productions and Sasha Colby, RuPaul Drag Race 2023 winner. Oh, what a night! (Read full story and see more fun pics, here in Crain's.)
Aryn Shelander of Tease Productions. (Photo by Jeremy Lawson)
Brian Smith, Brant Taylor, Roderick Branch and Geyer Morford.
The Joffrey Ballet’s “Midsummer Celebration” literally left Chuck and I speechless. I think this was one of the best events we’ve been to in ages. I love not having to sit at a table for dinner—the new trend of buffets and
Joffrey Ballet dancer Derek Drilon, styled by Galan Styling (David Murga).
roaming servers is fabulous, and the Joffrey did it in grand style! The floral décor by HMR Designs was in and of itself breathtaking. An area for photo opps was completely filled with a variety of flowers and an old-fashioned swing like the kind you would find on an oak tree in the backyard. Guests came dressed according to the theme with our friend Brian Smith (Joffrey Chief Marketing Officer) winning top outfit for his stunning flower hat that would’ve made Anne Boleyn jealous. Other guests wore little fairy wings and Derek Drilon, a Joffrey dancer, was expertly styled by Galan Styling(David Murga) with a huge peach flower perched on the side of his head over a black and white brocade jacket. FABULOUS! (Read full story and see more photos, here in Crain's)
The Joffrey Ballet's Midsummer Night's Dream Celebration, a night of pure magic!
With Elaine Hyde, Maureen Schulman and Amanda Puck.
Chicago Star Media celebrated its 4th anniversary in grand style on the rooftop at Mariano’s Lakeshore East . On a perfect summer night, nearly 60 guests, that
Curt Rose, Maggie Baczowski and Michael Kutza.
included supporters, advertisers, board members and contributors, mixed and mingled while enjoying a party that featured topline vendors from this iconic marketplace. Presented by Mariano’s Lakeshore East and organized by Amanda Puck, Mariano’s Director of Strategic Brand Development, the event
Music of the Baroque ED Declan McGovern and Cook County Treasure Maria Pappas.
Shoulders Coffee (Dave Marsalek and Chef Jaymes Berry); San Pellegrino presented its new San Pellegrino Zero Sugar (Matt Pozo and Milky); Quari Ice and more. Other important contributors to the event were Chris Weir (Store Director), Michal Gawkowski (Assistant Store Manager) and J & L Catering. Elaine Hyde, Publisher/Editor, welcomed guests and shared the history behind the brand that had its beginnings in the Lakeshore East area. Ashlea Hearn, Marketing Account
With Amanda Puck, Sugar & Spice (Almira Martin and Giovanna Krozel) with Chuck Jordan.
Manager, spoke about the new marketing opportunities available (see them here) and the many awards the brand has won recently. As associate publisher, I proudly
Jennifer Nieves and John Robak.
acknowledged key supporters and advertisers in the crowd and shared recent stats- in the last four years, the website has received over 1 million visitors and the team has written over 3,000 articles, covering everything from local news to cultural events. Former CSM writer Elena Smentkowski also addressed the crowd while other contributors, Susan Berkes, Margaret Laing and Michaela Wilson, were recognized as well. Partygoers posed with fanciful props created and donated by Kehoe Designs(Tom Kehoe and team) and left with goody bags
materials and “I Am A Chicago Star” pins. Longtime supporter and board member Maureen Schulman provided a beautiful Eli’s Cheesecake for the occasion branded with the Chicago Star logo. DJ World kept partygoers dancing to hot beats until the event concluded. Over the past four years, the company and website have grown tremendously, becoming a pivotal source of news and entertainment for Chicago, and always staying true to its mission of serving up positive news that readers can use. Recently the media company has expanded to include marketing, PR and much more. (Photos by Kelsy Goodwin and moi.)
The Torchio Pasta Bar, nestled in a 19th century building at 738 N. Wells St., has been a beloved culinary gem for years, and its allure only continues to grow. As a recent
Eric, the charming Torchio bartender.
convert, I'm finally experiencing the buzz firsthand, spurred on by friends who couldn't stop raving. “You have to meet the owner Bill, he’s a real charmer,” they’d say, or “Sit at the bar and have Eric the bartender wait on you, he’s fabulous.” The clincher for me was the whisper, “It’s super hard to get a reservation.” Challenge accepted. There's something
The popular fried artichoke hearts.
undeniably enticing about an exclusive spot and, let's face it, I'm a magnet for a club that won't let me in. The reservation rules are strict: a group of four can linger for two hours, while a duo gets an hour and a half. Plus, it costs $40 upfront to secure a booking. But the effort is worth it. Torchio Pasta Bar's history is as rich as its flavors. The story began with a family tradition: Bill Varley, the chef and owner, would
Housemade meatballs.
make fresh pasta with his niece Maggie every Christmas Eve at his Long Island home and loved the process. After Bill and his wife Janice fell in love with Chicago during business trips, they knew this vibrant city would become their home and eventually their vision of a restaurant would be born there as well. Their search for the perfect location came true and led them to a vacant storefront in a building from the
Torchio's cozy bar.
early 1900s. It was love at first sight. Bill and Janice meticulously designed the space, revealing century-old brickwork and creating a chic copper bar and cozy dining area filled with period details. Picture yourself enjoying homemade pasta with a crisp Pinot Grigio on a snowy day inside or basking in the summer sun on their charming patio. An antique hand-crank pasta press, or torchio,
Pappardelle in a crispy parmesan basket.
hangs above the bar, a nod to tradition. Now, let's dive into the cuisine. Beyond the welcoming ambiance and warm hospitality, Torchio offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience. All the pasta, except for the gluten-free options (which are imported from Italy), is made in-house. Many menu items are cherished family recipes, like the beloved Giovanni’s Bolognese. This dish features handmade tagliatelle lightly bathed in Bolognese sauce, all nestled in a Parmesan basket. It's divine. Another standout is the Fresh Vegetable Pappardelle, a delightful medley of pappardelle, asparagus, peas, zucchini, and yellow squash in a lemon butter sauce, topped with Pecorino Romano. For appetizers, the meatball dish (beef and veal in house-made tomato sauce) and the fried artichoke hearts are must-tries. End your meal on a sweet note with Jolene’s Ligurian Olive Oil Cake or the Tiramisu. Hats off to Torchio Pasta Bar—securing that reservation was well worth it. We'll definitely be back!
Gala co-chair Terri Engelman Rhoads, Honorary Gala Chairman Anida Johnson “Cookie” Cohen, and Gala co-chair Shauna Montgomery.
The Chicago Lighthouse hosted it’s annual “Seeing What’s Possible” gala at the Four Seasons with over 300 guests in attendance. The event was co-chaired by Terri Engelman Rhoads and Shauna Montgomery with honorary
Cheryl Coleman and Paula Borg.
gala chair Cookie Cohen. The event was a record-breaker raising over $700,000 for the nonprofit’s life-changing services and programs. Partygoers enjoyed a cocktail reception and a silent auction before moving into the ballroom for dinner where the Becca Kaufman Orchestra played before and after dinner. Vincent and Particia Foglia were honored as “Beacons of Light” for their ongoing support. The Folgia Family Foundation provided financial support for the building of the
Dr. Jeff and Tina Weller.
Foglia Residences for the Lighthouse. Located at 1134 S. Wood St., the 76-unit development is for residents who are blind, visually impaired, disabled and veterans. The development is the first Low-Income Housing Tax Credit building in the nation for the blind community. “Light of the Night Corporate”
Jim and Mary Lasky.
recognition was awarded to Neal Berz of MIS Computer for his outstanding contributions to The Lighthouse. The evening also included a live auction and raffle. Co-chair Shauna Montgomery ramped up the excitement for the auction urging supporters and friends to bid. Her efforts paid off with a record-breaking event for the Chicago Lighthouse. Congrats to all involved including honorary committee members Julie Barrish, Eleni and Jimmy Bousis, Judge F. Keith Brown, Cheryl Coleman, Shelley and Bill Farley, Audrey Gale, Susan Gohl and Jonathan Grabill, Been and Martin Joseph, Melinda and Lucien Lagrange, Mary and Jim Lasky, Bonnie and Michael Rothman, Dr. Jeff Weller and Tina Weller, Felicia and Kurt Winiecki and others. SAVE-THE-DATE for Friday, Sept. 13, when the fabulous FLAIR "Eye on Style" fashion show/luncheon returns to the Ritz! We will be honoring the one and only Shauna Montgomery! For tickets and all info, click here! (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
I received some very exciting news from my friend and legendary newspaperman and Chicago radio personality, Rick Kogan! I am now a regular on his popular "After Hours With Rick Kogan" on WGN-Radio 720 AM! Every week or two, I come on to share all the fun news from our fabulous city with the man who IS Mr. Chicago! It's a fun-filled love-fest and I hope you can tune in on Sundays from 5-7 pm. Listen to our latest segment here!
Huge congrats to Eli's Cheesecake Company,Maureen and Marc Schulman! Wherever history is being made, you can bet there will be an Eli's Cheesecake to celebrate! They created two 1,000 lb. cheesecakes for The Democratic National Convention welcome party. The cake was decorated with all 50 state placards, and the crowd loved it! In fact, Convention goers consumed over 5,400 lbs. of Eli's Cheesecake, Chicago's favorite dessert, by the time the Convention was over. (One of the main decorators was Ivanna Yatskiv, from the Ukraine, one of 80 refugees working at Eli’s.)
Rich Gamble, Maureen and Marc Schulman, Jaime Harrison and Glenn Eden. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen)
Co-chairs Tracey DiBuono, Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou with Bobbi Panter (SC president, 2nd from L) (Photo by Mila Samokhina)
The Service Club of Chicago’s annual “Day on the Terrace” fashion show and luncheon, held on August 5 at the Peninsula Chicago, dazzled attendees with its “Denim & Diamonds” theme. This sold-out event, attended by
Sherry Lea Holson, presenting sponsor. (Photo by Mila Samokhina)
over 300 guests, raised nearly $200,000 to support the club's grant distribution program, benefiting local nonprofits. Co-chaired by Service Club members Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey, and Tracey DiBuono, the event showcased the latest fall fashions from some of Chicago’s top designers and retailers. ZZAZZ Productions
Paul Iacono, Tina Weller and Mark Olley. (Photo by Mila Samokhina)
put together the runway show, featuring designs by Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein, Mira Couture, and SYLWIA. Collections from Max Mara, alice + olivia, Anne Fontaine, NINA in Chicago, Bonobos, Contessa Bottega, Gorski Furs, St. John Boutique, and Peter Millar also made a statement on the catwalk. A highlight of the afternoon was the show-stopping
Such an honor. Thank you to these fabulous U.S. Marines!
finale presented by Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Models, dressed in elegant evening wear, were escorted down the runway by members of the United States Marine Corps, adding a patriotic and dramatic flair to the event. The models were a mix of Service Club members, local media personalities, and
Sherrill Bodine, Bethany Kitick and Lauren Lein.
supporters. Notable television figures included Dawn Hasbrouck and Lou Canellis from Fox-32 Chicago, Micah Materre from WGN-TV, Matt Rodrigues and Cortney Hall from NBC-5, Anna Davlantes from WGN Radio, Whitney Reynolds from PBS, and former ABC-7 sports anchor Jim Rose. The event
Love you MILA!
continued with a chic, sold-out after-party at the Peninsula’s Shanghai Terrace, where 140 guests celebrated to the beats of DJ Akib. In 2023 alone, the Service Club awarded $546,430 in
Paige McGrath, Carli Kelly, Emma Schramko, Gretchen Schramko. (Photo by Mila Samokhina)
grants, continuing its 134-year legacy of transforming lives and strengthening the Chicago community. Past recipients include Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, which received a mobile sensory center, and SOS Children’s Villages, which was provided with computers for their students. The club has also funded parking vouchers for families in the NICU through the Jackson Chance Foundation, playground pavement replacement for St. Giles School in Oak Park, and a new lighting system for the Red Orchid Theater. And SAVE-THE-DATE for the SC's 134th Gala at the Ritz-Carlton on Sat. Nov. 2. The event will be co-chaired by Alex Meneses and Kelly Uihlein and have a very big surprise celebrity guest! (For more info and tickets for these upcoming events, please visit: theserviceclubofchicago.org)
Sylwia Wilczynska, Becca Maas, Debi Catenacci and Laura Schwartz Stryker with members of the U.S. Marine Corps. (Photo by Mila Samokhina)
No matter what side of the political fence you're on, you can't deny the fact that the city was filled with excitement during the
Andre and Frances Guichard.
DNC. Stars were everywhere with parties sprouting up in some of our city''s favorite spots including Gene & Georgetti, Billy Goat Tavern, 360 Chicago, Navy Pier, Tre Dita, Chicago Club, St. Regis, Carnivale, Salt Shed (where John Legend performed) and more. However, I think the event at the Adler Planetarium hosted by World Business Chicago was the most fun. Rapper Common made a surprise appearance and performed for hours for the rapt crowd. He brought up an audience member, Tifair Hamed, to the stage and rapped out an impromptu 'love song' to her on the spot. I don't think she will ever be the same. It was a fun-filled week in Chicago and our city sparkled like a diamond!
Common thrills the World Business Chicago crowd at the Adler Planetarium.
Sister Rosemary Connelly and Lois Gates of Misericordia.
The 27thArtist in All fundraiser for Misericordia featured artwork created by talented Misericordia resident artists with assistance of dedicated staff and volunteers. Through the Artist
Proud resident beside his artwork.
In All, Misericordia Siblings (SIBS) program residents’ artwork was showcased and shared in a world-class venue, the Art Institute’s Modern Wing, that allowed them to reach out to the Chicago community and feel the same exhilaration all artists experience when their work is admired and sought by others. Misericordia offers a community of care that maximizes potential for persons with mild to profound developmental disabilities, many of whom are also physically challenged. By serving society’s most vulnerable citizens, Misericordia also serves the families who want the best for them yet cannot provide it at home.
With fellow Dream Award honorees Gene ('Duke of Earl') Chandler and Hosea Sanders.
This spring/summer has been an exceptionally gratifying year. I've been
Communicator 'Award of Distinction' for 'Candid Candace – The Podcast!"
thrilled to support so many deserving nonprofits and, this year, I was recognized by PAWS Chicago (as seen in post above) as well as by the Dream Awards, which honored me with an Excellence in Media Award (thank you Mable Buckner!) Thanks to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas for introducing me too! Additionally, my "Candid Candace- The Podcast!" received a Communicator Award of Distinction! Thank you to my producer/co-host John St. Augustine. My heart of filled to the brim with gratitude. To find out about all the exciting events, past and future, check out our latest podcast (Episode 36- Summer Stuff), HERE!
Chuck and I were excited to attend a sneak peek of Giordano Dance Chicago's upcoming fall season at the Harris Theater (on Oct. 25/26 and it was so THRILLING! Famed choreographer, Ray Leeper, has designed a finale piece that will blow the doors off titled "Black & Red" which is an homage to Gus Giordano (these were his favorite colors). This season, also marks the 40th anniversary of the company's much loved artistic director, Nan Giordano! Please click here for tickets and more info. AND, on Thursday, Oct. 10, "Dancing with the Giordano Stars" will return to Park West. This dance party will have a stellar cast of competitors dancing with the GDC professionals. Come out and cheer for your favorites. Info for this event can be found here! These are two events you won't want to miss!
This year, my blog is celebrating its 16th year! It is Chicago's first and longest running lifestyle blog. For all of you who follow and support, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It is a pure labor of love and, even though it's not as regular as I would hope, it will never go away. (If not a subscriber, please sign up here!)
Love, as always, Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. A special shout-out to my friend Sylvia Perez (Fox-32)! I always love sharing events with YOU!
Veteran dancers Katie Rafferty and Ashley Downes took their final bows at Giordano Dance Chicago's 60th anniversary celebration.
Giordano Dance Chicago hosted a power-packed performance and gala to celebrate its 60th anniversary April 1. The event was a sellout and a huge success in every way- from the dynamic VIP committee who lent
Marc Giordano (Nan's brother), Keenan Casey (Nan's son) with honorees Mort Kessler and Ben Hodge and Nan Giordano.
their support, to the 380+ gala attendees to the over 1200 audience members who came out for the performance – in every respect it was a blow-out. The evening began for VIP ticket holders with an exclusive backstage peek into the dancers’ pre-performance preparation as they rehearsed and warmed-
Legendary choreographers/dancers Pierre Lockett and Homer Hans Bryant.
up with the great choreographer and dance legend Homer Hans Bryant. A champagne toast and dinner in the Green Room were also included for the 40 or so VIPs. Artistic Director Nan Giordano and Executive Director Michael McStraw delivered
With Chuck Jordan and Nick Pullia behind the scenes at the gala pre-party.
warm welcome remarks and took questions from the rapt crowd as they watched the dancers doing their warm-up routines, jumping and twirling mere feet from the guests. The two-hour Harris performance (with intermission) had guests on the edge of their seats from start to finish, opening with a performance set to “Unforgettable” (with music by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole). The dancers were elegant in
Leslie Logsdon, Melissa Babcock, Kathy Mondelli and Mark Olley.
tuxes and flowing gowns with the stage draped in white. Up next, one of my favorites, “Sing, Sing, Sing (music by Alan Silvestri and Louis Prima). Here the dancers showed
Sarah and Will Harris (Darvin)
the reason why they are known as “America’s original jazz dance company” and their trademark high energy. Choreographer Kia Smith presented a world premiere of her “Luminescence.” (with music by Coldplay and U2). Twenty-five dancers commanded the stage, including members of her South Chicago Dance Theatre. The piece was created in honor of Homer Hans Bryant. The return of choreographer (to
Kellie O'Connell and John Robak.
the stars, including Jennifer Lopez) Liz Imperio’s spirited “La Belleza de Cuba” and Randy Duncan’s “Can’t Take This Away,” that featured the amazing vocals of the Bourne Family, closed out the performance part of the evening. For the finale, the dancers came out into the audience dancing exuberantly and drawing wild, appreciative applause. A
Kip Helverson, GDC Board Chair, and Trey Gonzalez.
beautiful, yet bittersweet, moment occurred when two of the company’s veteran dancers, Ashley Downs and Katie Rafferty, took their final bows after a combined 24 years with GDC. They were honored in both a video presentation and with bouquets lovingly presented by Nan Giordano and Michael McStraw at the end of their last performance. Original company members, Mort
Ken Norgan at gala on Pritzker Pavilion stage.
Kessler, and longtime former Executive Director, Ben Hodge, were the evening's honorees. Following the show, 380 gala guests walked through the Harris Theater, and onto a freight elevator, to reach the Pritzker Pavilion Stage for the celebration. The views of the Chicago skyline and Millennium Park through the glass walls of the stage were spectacular! An open bar and buffet created by Inspired Catering (Karen Stefani) added to the exciting experience. Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot
With GDC dancer Adam Houston at gala on Pritzker Stage.
declared April 1, “Giordano Dance Chicago Day.” What a night to celebrate 60 amazing years of Giordano Dance Chicago! The gala committee consisted of: Joshua Blake Carter,
Greg Thompson and Greg Cameron (Joffrey Ballet president/CEO).
Gorman Cook, Tara Cope, Pamela Crutchfield, Chris D’Hondt, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Kyle Barrettsmith, Israel and Jatnna Idonije, Jennifer Sutton Brieva and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Bethany Florek, Ann Ford, Paula Friedman, Dina Gallay, Marilynn Gardner, Nick Pullia, Sandy Golub, Jon Harris, Will Harris, Todd Hatoff, Kip Helverson, Paul Iacono, Ryan Jacobson, Kevin Janes, Makenzie Kaiser, Jennifer Kastenholz, Stewart Kerr, Kristine Kinder, Rachel Kohl, Molly Manus, Pat Manus, Kevin McGirr, Michael McStraw, Audi Melsbakas, Tina Monaghan, Molly Newell, Diana Nielander, Ken Norgan, Mark Olley, John Robak, Dan Sabol, Cesar G. Salinas, Tom Sinkovic and Diane and Richard Weinberg. I was the proud event chair.(giordanodance.org) (Photos by me and the good ones are by Beth Ann Anderson) (To see more photos, click here!)
Ron Kittle, Ryan Dempster, Ryne Sandberg and Grant DePorter at Harry Caray Tribute at Navy Pier. (5 a.m.!)
Harry Caray’s Tavern was packed at Navy Pier on March 29. From 5 a.m. on into the evening hours, sports legends, celebs, super fans, press and more
Blackhawks' anthem singer Jim Cornelison, former Governor Pat Quinn and Grant DePorter.
crowded into the restaurant to join in for the Worldwide Toast to Harry Caray honoring the 25th anniversary of his passing. This year’s theme, Re-Elect Harry Mayor of Rush Street, intended to “reaffirm forever that Harry is the one and only Mayor of Rush Street and that there will never be another.” Harry was “elected” Mayor of Rush Street on August 24, 1980.
Ryan Dempster as Harry Caray.
Numerous establishments around Rush Street campaigned for him and he won the election in a landslide. Mayor Jane Byrne acknowledged his victory by declaring that Harry was the Mayor of Rush Street and that she was the Mayor of the rest of Chicago. Twenty-five years later, fans came out in force to “vote” to ensure that Harry maintains his “crown.” Comedian Jeff Garlin showed up claiming to be
Navy Pier's Marilynn Gardner and Joanna DePorter.
Harry’s “campaign manager.” Former Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster appeared as Harry. (Ryan is known almost as much for his illustrious baseball career as he is for his amazing impersonation of Harry!) As guests filed in, they were gifted with a souvenir pair of
Dutchie Caray, Harry's beautiful widow.
Harry’s oversized glasses and white T-shirts emblazoned with “Vote Harry Caray Mayor of Rush Street.” You could hardly squeeze into the dining room as there was so much press setting up cameras, all trained on the podium where the The Score’s Parkins & Spiegel team were positioned and where the toast would take place. Everyone in the room was handed a bright red and white can of
With Cubs' great Ryne Sandberg.
Budweiser for the toast. The program opened with Chicago Cubs’ legend Ryne Sandberg asking the crowd to raise their “cans” and sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” Then, Chicago Board of Elections Commissioner William Kresse and Bill Kurtis (The Voice) announced the voting results. In 4th place, William “Big Bill” Thompson, in 3rd place, John “Bathhouse”
Jeff Garlin chats with The Score.
Coughlin , in 2nd place George “Cap” Streeter and, of course, the winner in a landslide was Harry Caray! After the announcement, wild applause broke out as a rain of colorful confetti poured down on the crowd followed by Chicago Blackhawks’ anthem singer Jim Cornelison singing “Harry Caray is back again,” rhyming to the tune of “Happy
Alderman Brian Hopkins
Days are Here Again” song. Ryan Dempster, as Harry, accepted on his behalf and thanked Dutchie Caray (Harry’s widow) who was in the crowd. Seen on the scene were former Governor Pat Quinn, former Chicago Bear Richard Dent, Chicago Cubs’ Ron Kittle, Richard Roeper, the Landan Twins (Jon and Andrew), Joanna DePorter, Betsy Shepherd, Jimmy Rittenberg, Navy Pier’s Marilynn Gardener,
Chicago Board of Elections Commissioner William Kresse and wife Erin.
Gail Spreen and Dennis Downes, Joanne Grace, Linda Hynes, NASCAR’s Brent Gambill and Kurt Busch, Alderman Brian Hopkins, Beth Heller and so many others. As is tradition every year, fans around the world raise a drink to the memory of legendary Hall of Fame baseball announcer Harry Caray. Over the years, more than five million fans
from all 50 states and over 150 countries have joined in the annual tribute to the legendary baseball broadcaster.(Congrats to Grant Deporter and his team, who did a great job building the excitement and honoring Harry. Grant already has the theme for next year! Of course, he does!) (Harry Caray’s Tavern, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., (312) 527-9700, harrycarays.com)
A two-peat for PALM BEACH – Happiness is found under a palm tree. It's where you can keep "palm" and carry on. We were so lucky to be able to return to Palm Beach in March. Just seeing the highway sign, "This way to
Leslie Hindman at Swifty's.
Will Schauble, Jason Spohn and Paula Fasseas at Taverna Opa in Delray Beach.
the beaches," made us feel warm (literally) and fuzzy inside. When we left Chicago, it was cold, dark, gloomy and raining. It was exactly the same weather when we returned two weeks later. The older I get, the harder this weather is to take. I know when Spring arrives, I will feel so different but for now…..eeks. Nowadays, the Palm Beach area seems to attract a lot of Chicagoans. On this recent trip, we enjoyed a great dinner with Paula Fasseas (PAWS Chicago founder), Suzie
With Jose "Pepe" Conforme, Ken Norgan and Chuck for after-dinner drinks at Swifty's.
(PAWS Chicago) and Ross Glickman (Urban Retail Properties), Jason Spohn (noted floral artist) and Will
Monika Dixon and fiance in PB.
Schauble (@Properties) at Taverna Opa in Delray Beach. We spent a great night with Leslie Hindman (Hindman Auctioneers), who is splitting her time between beautiful homes in Chicago and PB, at Swifty's. And we had another fun-filled day-into-night visit with Ken Norgan (former McDonald’s franchise owner) and Jose “Pepe” Conforme (VP Sales & Product Management Triangle Home Fashions) at La Goulue. Noted interior designer Nancy
Glen and Nancy Traylor with Leslie Hindman.
Traylor and husband Glen had us all over for cocktails in her fabulous, antique-filled home on South Ocean Blvd. By a lucky chance, in front of Bricktop's, we hooked up with Monika Dixon (Monika Dixon PR) and her darling fiancé, who were fresh off a whirlwind trip to Miami Beach, after dining at hotspot Queen.Helen Melchior was recently in town too for some R&R. Peggy Martay, was there for
Our favorite PB boutique, Kim Renk, at 219 Worth Ave. in the Via Amore behind Lily Pulitzer.
several days and Marci Holzer (founder of “A Way With Words,”a new memoir writing company), was also in the area, even appearing in a full page photo in Chart Magazine, a local
Had a chance to revisit fellow Playboy Playmate Cathy St. George (with Maybelline) at Pizza al Fresco.
publication for nonprofit news. And, last but not least, Bill Zwecker and Tom Gorman were in Palm Beach to co-host a big soiree with Leslie Hindman at her home. Party guests included Jocelyn Stoller, Kim and Greg Dryer, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Nancy and Glen Traylor and a slew of other well-heeled friends. If you’re planning a trip to this area, here are a few of our recommendations: La Goulue (288 S. County Rd.); Shrimper’s Grill & Raw Bar (4903 SE Dixie Hwy); (1901 S. Dixie Hwy); Sushi Jo (319 Belvedere Rd., WPB); Pizza al
William and Laura Hindman.
Fresco (14 Via Mizner, PB); Bice (313 Worth Ave., PB, sit on the patio in the back, not the side); Elisabetta’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria (185 Banyan Blvd, WPB); Malakor Thai Cafe 425 25th St., WPB); Taverna Opa Delray (270 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach); Avocado Grill, 125 Datura St., WPB). Also, if you love rare books, there is none better (or more expensive!) than Raptis Rare Books, 329 Worth Ave., PB. And, our favorite boutique? Kim Renk, hands down, at 219 Worth Ave. She has such great taste so the store has an amazing selection of jewelry, gifts, and chic fashions.
Avocado Grill, 125 Datura St., West Palm Beach.
Bice, 313 Worth Ave., Palm Beach (back patio, the best!)
Elisabetta's Ristorante, 185 Banyan Blvd., West Palm Beach.
Chicago’s hospitality community mobilized once again to organize “Chicago Chefs Cook for Earthquake Relief,’ raising over $100,000 for World Central Kitchen’s relief
Lou Canellis, Chef Tony Priolo and Louie Alexakis.
efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria. The benefit featured tasting stations from more than 47 chefs (see list below), and took place March 20 at Avli on the Park under the leadership of executive chef Niko Kapernaros, Chef Tony Priolo, Chef Sarah Stegner and others. Notable
Chef Andres with Alexi Giannoulias (IL Secretary of State).
among the more than 400 guests were chef Jose Andres (founder WCK), Emmanuel Koubarakis (Consulate General of Greece), Engin Turesin (Consulate General of Türkiye), Alexi Giannoulias (IL Secretary of State), Sylvia Perez (FOX News), Lisa Fielding (WBBM- AM News Radio, Chef
Sylvia Perez (2nd from L) and friends.
Art Smith, among many others. Funds raised from “Chicago Chefs Cook for Earthquake Relief” will be sent directly to World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that arrives first to the front-lines, providing communities with fresh, nourishing meals in response to
Avli on the Park Executive Chef Niko Kapernaros surrounded with love from friends and family.
humanitarian, climate, and community crises. The event was made possible by the Chicago Chefs Cook leadership team including Chef Sarah Stegner (Prairie Grass Cafe), Chef Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Darren Gest (Deloitte Consulting), Eda Davidman (Chicago Chefs Cook) and Jodi Fyfe (The Paramount Group), and generous sponsors of the event included the Illinois Restaurant Association, Green City Market, Audacy Radio + Affiliate Stations, Outfront Media, Mariano’s, Chef Tog and others. In less than a year, they
Eda Davidman (R), Chef Tony Priolo, Chef Sarah Stegner and friends.
have raised more than $850,000 to feed those in need after natural disasters. They are already planning their next event.
Participating restaurants and chefs included:
Adalina: Soo Ahn; Adorn: Richie Farina; Avli on the Park: Nikolaos Kapernaros; ; Avli River North: Panos Chalikiopoulos; Bacino's: Linda Bacin; BAR GOA: Bobby Geetha; Bayan Ko: Lawrence Letrero; Big Jones: Paul Fehribach; Bistronomic: Martial Noguier; Chef Art Smith's Reunion: Art Smith; Cherry Circle Room: Heraclio Belmontes; Cornerstone Restaurant Group: Bill Kim, Cedric Harden; Demera Ethiopian Restaurant: Tigist Reda; Eden: Devon Quinn; Fire Cakes: Jonathan Fox; Frontier: Brian Jupiter; Galit Restaurant: Zachary Engel; Gene & Georgetti: Cristiano Bassani; Gibsons Italia: Jose
Lisa Fielding (R) and friends.
Sosa; Greek Islands: Angelos Petratos; GT Prime: Casey Doody; Honey Butter Fried Chicken: Christine Cikowski; Imee's Mediterranean Kitchen: Nicole Nassif; Lula Café: Jason Hammel; LÝRA: Joe Rizza; Nonnina: John Boudouvas; North Pond Restaurant: César Murillo; One Off Hospitality: Paul Kahan; Piccolo Sogno: Tony Priolo; Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen: Marios Kalampogias; Prairie Grass Cafe: Sarah Stegner; Rose Mary: Joseph Flamm; Saigon Sisters: Mary Aregoni; Sanaa's Gourmet Mediterranean: Sanaa Abourezk; Sapori Trattoria: Ramos Saul; Soul & Smoke: D’Andre Carter; Stetson Steakhouse: Isidro Arroyo; Tabu Restaurant: Saul Roman; Tao: Amanda Barnes; The Evolved Network: Sebastian White;The Goddess and Grocer: Debbie Sharpe; The Purple Pig: Jimmy Bannos, Jimmy Bannos Jr.; Verzênay: Arshiya Farheen. (wck.org) (Photos by Eric Kleinberg)
Honorary Chair Ashley Whittaker (Photo by Melanie Acevedo).
gentleman’s outbuilding with vaulted ceilings.Entrance to the 2023 Lake Forest Showhouse (Photo Courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty). The home is located near one of Lake Forest Open Lands’
Honorary Chair Timothy Whealon (Photo by William Waldron).
largest and oldest nature preserves. The estate is situated on more than 9 acres with elevated vistas ideal for taking in the surrounding native savanna and prairie. Over 35 leading landscape and interior designers are in the process of reimagining the estate, inside and out, which will open for viewing May 6, and remain open daily through June 4.
Moderator of May 8 Lecture and Luncheon Emma Bazilian, author of Charm School.
Nationally known NYC-based designers Ashley Whittaker and Timothy Whealon will serve as the honorary chairs of the 2023 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens and participate in the keynote
Honorary chair Timothy Whealan. (Photo by Bill Waldron)
lecture, luncheon and book signing on May 8. Emma Bazilian, author of Schumacher’s new book Charm School, will serve as moderator. Ashley Whittaker is an Elle Décor A-List interior decorator who has run her design business in New York City since 2006. All proceeds from sponsorships, tickets, and designer sales, including from a volunteer-run boutique, will benefit the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago, a non-profit celebrating more than 110 years of providing healthcare to Chicago's medically underserved. Initially established in 1911 to provide fresh milk from health stations in response to high infant mortality, the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago has evolved to meet the changing health needs of vulnerable families in the Chicagoland area.
The 2023 Designers of the Lake forest Showhouse & Gardens, shot taken on site by Katrina Wittkamp.
Jimmy John Liautaud (R) with his beloved late dad, Jim P. Liautaud.
Every restaurant dreams of having satisfied customers but Gibsons Chicago Steakhouse could never have expected the level of gratitude shown by one loyal customer on a recent cold, windy night. Jimmy John Liautaud, founder of Jimmy John’s sandwich shops, wanted to honor his late father with a tribute dinner for friends. He had called
Kathy Piccone kindly included Jimmy John's dad's photo on the famous Gibsons' wall.
ahead and asked Kathy Piccone if it would be possible to put up a photo of his dad on the wall before the dinner which she, of course, did. When the group arrived, tears flowed after seeing the photo of this much-loved man. So
Jimmy John's, a familiar sight across the country.
on this night, in honor of his dad, Jimmy and son Freddy decided to give something back to the people who had been so kind to his father throughout the years. He left a tip of $100,000 to be divided among the staff. Jimmy John Liautaud founded Jimmy John’s in 1983 at age 19, with the first shop in Charleston, Illinois. He had graduated at the bottom of his class so, after high school, he had two
Jimmy John Liautaud, founder Jimmy John's Sandwich Shops.
options- join the military or open a business. He opted for sandwiches. “I’m living the American Dream, but my life didn’t start out that way. Up until my teenage years, family life was very stressful due to serious financial losses,” Liautaud said. Well, he has since corrected this situation in a big way. Jimmy John’s Sandwich Shops now has 2,634 franchises across 45 states. Jimmy, your dad taught you well. Having business smarts is well and good, but having a big heart is even better.
The Guinness Open Gate Brewery will open this summer at 901 W. Kinzie.
The Guinness Open Gate Brewery announced plans to open in Chicago this summer with a preview party at City Hall in Fulton Market on March 10 . The Dublin-based brewery chose Chicago for its latest U.S. location which
WSHE radio's Lisa Kosty, Michelle Mekky (Mekky Media) and WBBM-AM's Lisa Fielding.
will be at 901 W. Kinzie. This Open Gate Brewery will be the second American-based facility owned by Guinness, with another location in Baltimore, Maryland, which opened in recent years. The brewery will be housed in a former railroad depot, with 15,000-sq.-ft. of space. It will include a taproom and a full-service restaurant with
Rodney Williams, president of Diageo Beer Company, and Ryan Wagner, head of marketing and community partnerships and Guinness National Brand Ambassador.
indoor and outdoor seating. A full-service bakery will also be included in the plans, with the company partnering with the Chicago Food Depository to help fight hunger in the community. During the preview party, guests enjoyed a first look at the food and beverage menu as well as a “tour” of the tap room space through a virtual reality
The brewery will offer more than a dozen rotating beers as well as beers from local brewers.
experience. DJ Charles Protégé kept the beats going strong while the Guinness team were on hand to
Corey McPherrin, Brook Jay, Michelle Mekky and David Viggiano.
answer any questions. It’s been the buzz of the brewery scene since Guinness first announced it would be building an Open Gate Brewery right here in Chicago a year and a half ago. It seems like we won’t have to wait much longer! (Guinness Open Gate Brewery, 901 W. Kinzie)
The Joffrey Ballet closes its 67th season with the long-awaited Chicago premiere of John Neumeier’s beautifully haunting interpretation of The Little
The Joffrey Ballet's "The Little Mermaid" (photo by Kiran West)
Mermaid. A gripping tableau of shadows and colors, Neumeier’s world-renowned production of Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 tragic folktale follows the tormented mermaid heroine on a journey between the divergent worlds of land and sea—one utterly complex, the other magnificently serene. With sets and costumes of the grandest scale, this heartbreaking tragedy, based on Andersen’s original and complex themes, will mark the largest production ever mounted by The Joffrey Ballet. (Little Mermaid will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in ten performances only, from April 19–April 30)
Fleurs de Villes returns to Chicago’s 900 North Michigan Shops with VOYAGE, a floral journey of discovery and iconic global storytelling, May 3-7! Building on the incredible success of Fleurs de Villes FEMMES in 2022, this beautiful event is returning to the Windy City with over 15 floral mannequins and doorways at 900 North Michigan Shops, taking visitors on a journey of discovery to iconic global destinations. Inspired by timeless monuments and diverse traditions, festivals, and fashion from cities around the world, Fleurs de Villes VOYAGE will be a feast of cultural storytelling, connecting the world through flowers like never before. This stunning showcase of floral talent will be free and open to the public with other highlights including a pop-up flower market with local florists, plus daily workshops led by floral artists and brand partners taking place in the Fleurs de Villes JARDIN. (All details here)
Designs for Dignity (D4D), a nonprofit organization that aims to transform existing nonprofit environments through pro bono design services and in-kind donations, announces its 23rd annual fundraising event — Spirit of Design —
Co-chairs Michael Abrams and Nicholas Moriarty.
Wednesday, May 17. Supporters are invited to attend this highly-anticipated affair which will take place from 6-9 p.m. at Theater on the Lake, featuring delicious fare, craft cocktails, live auction, raffle prizes, lively entertainment, and more. This year’s event will be co-chaired by MichaelAbrams of Michael Abrams Interiors and NicholasMoriarty of Nicholas Moriarty Interiors.Jennifer Sobecki, CEO of Designs for Dignity says, “Since D4D’s’s inception, we have positively impacted the lives of more than 700,000 individuals by transforming 260+ nonprofit spaces and leveraging $18+ million in pro bono design services and donated materials, thanks to the power of design and the community’s support.”Spirit of Design tickets are $200 and can be purchased online here. ______________________________________________________________________
Mariano's Bloom Haus floral bouquet.
If you're a fan of Mariano's, like we are, then you're gonna love this! The much loved chain has just launched on-
Delicious Mariano's Oki Sushi.
demand Oki Sushi and Floral delivery at all 44 Mariano’s throughout the Chicagoland area. The new delivery option, through DoorDash, will allow you to order beautiful, custom-wrapped Bloom Haus by Mariano’s floral bouquets and freshly prepared Oki Sushi, including rolls and combos, dumplings, poke bowls and more. AND the best part, these items can be delivered in under an hour! (Inquire here: marianos.com, instacart.com)
Michelle and Marion Durpetti celebrating Marion's 75th BD in Wellington, Florida, in STYLE!
The much loved Marion Durpetti, of Chicago's Gene & Georgetti, celebrated her 75th birthday in style on the family's private equestrian property in Wellington, Florida. Michelle Durpetti, Marion's accomplished
The elegant party was held in the barn, everyone participated!
daughter and global wedding planner and event producer, designed the fabulous fete for her mom, with decadent details being a top priority. "We worked with an incredibly talented team down here in Wellington to really bring an intimate dinner party to life. These are some of my favorite kinds of events to produce, says Durpetti, "because the opportunity for details
Marion and Tony Durpetti.
with a more intimate group are just endless!" From the antique prosecco bar cart to the espresso martini bike there was no shortage of delicious food for guests. "Creative Edge Parties is one of the premiere companies to work with in Palm Beach for catering (they recently worked on legendary Chicago Bulls player Michael Jordan's 60th), and we knew we wanted really bespoke food and nobody does it better!" From the caviar first
Big love right here. Michelle and her mom savoring the moment.
course to the lemon birthday cake guests were treated to some really fabulous eats! Chicago's very own mega talented DJ Megan Taylor worked with Michelle to curate a custom list of Marion's favorite songs ranging from Frankie Valli and the four seasons to Lionel Ritchie and that really personal playlist was yet another layer of detail woven into the evening. Marion's son in law, Collin PIerson is a top wedding and fashion editorial photographer and was, of course, the go-to for all of the photos! The best part? Guests and the birthday girl alike were able to celebrate this milestone with the family's beloved horses as the entire evening was brought to life in the barn! (Gene & Georgetti's, 500 N. Franklin, 312-527-3718, geneandgeorgetti.com, Michelle Durpetti Events, 312-988-9900)
The National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPM) marked its 28th anniversary by hosting the “Gentle Warrior Awards,” a black-tie gala, on February 25. The event took place at the IBEW Local 134 Complex with ABC 7 Chicago personality Hosea Sanders returning as celebrity emcee. "Tonight, was everything I dreamed of and more," said museum’s founder Dr. Lyn Hughes. "The support we received from the labor community and corporate partners is helping us move in the right direction toward the creation of the first-ever Black labor tourism district in Pullman." The museum is the only one in the world that bears the name A. Philip Randolph,
Judge Arnette Hubbard delivers an acceptance speech for her Change Agent Award.
founder of the first Black labor union in the nation — The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP). The Porter’s union was the first Black union to be chartered under the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the first Black union to win a collective bargaining agreement with a major
The night concluded with Pullman Porter Museum President David Peterson, Jr. unveiling this latest Wintrust 3-panel mural which pays tribute to BSCP. Seen from the expressway at 1735 North Ashland Ave.
U.S. corporation — the powerful Pullman company. Randolph’s unwavering courage, sacrifice and intuitive leadership opened doors for Blacks in organized labor and enabled the Porters to create the foundation for the Black middle class. As one of America's foremost labor and civil rights leaders, Randolph became known as the "Gentle Warrior." This year’s Gentle Warrior Awardees were Elizabeth Shuler, the first female President of the National AFL-CIO, and Fred Redmond, Secretary/Treasurer, of the AFL-CIO. This year’s Change Agent Awardees were the Honorable Arnette Hubbard, Retired Illinois Supreme Court Judge; Stacy Davis Gates, President of the Chicago Teachers Union; and Tina Sanders, CEO of Phalanx Family Services. Funds generated by the awards gala will support the museum's expansion project which will include the creation of Randolph’s Way, the first Black Labor Tourism district in America. The project is scheduled to break ground this spring.
Museum President David Peterson, Jr., Judge Arnette Hubbard, Museum Founder Dr. Lyn Hughes, Tina Sanders, CEO of Phalanx Family Services and Stacy David-Gates, President of the Chicago Teachers Union, pose on the red carpet.
With David Yurman's Jose Hernandez and Hernan Rivera.
So much thanks to David Yurman Michigan Avenue, especially manager Jose Hernandez and Hernan Rivera, for honoring me on International Women's Day March 9, at the store. I was so thrilled to see so many friends turn
Todd Hatoff and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas.
out on a blisteringly cold and windy night! The store was beautiful with all the glittering jewels and flutes of champagne. A gorgeous necklace was raffled off and won by Rhonda Sanderson. In Jose's speech, he also paid tribute to all of the store's female clients on their careers and endeavors. In the crowd were Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Chris and Susie Malayon, Jimmy Place, Kathy Mondelli,
Julia Jacobs, Sheree Valukas, Bethany Florek and Lauren Lein Cavanaugh.
Sherrill Bodine, Debi Catenacci, Sheree Valukas, John Robak, Jermikko, Todd Hatoff and Frank Jeffery, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and Peter Kambreros, Marie Mancuso and Marcos Cruz, Eddie Howlett, Lauren Lein, Bethany Florek, Felicia Winiecki, Galina Petrova, Chilli Pepper, Kathy Piccone, Mark Olley, Almira Yllana and friends, Elizabeth Bertucci, Julia Jacobs, Paula Borg, Jay Kopp and others. The David Yurman company was founded in 1980 by David and Sybil Yurman. Their ability to fuse fashion, art, and jewelry into signature design concepts revolutionized the industry. (David Yurman, 919 N. Michigan)
Mark your calendars NOW for Spring Lincoln Roscoe Art & Craft Fair! It will be held May 13/14 (on Lincoln, from School to Roscoe) on Sat. from noon to 7 pm and Sunday from noon- 5 pm. For a complete list of Amdur Productions Festivals, click here! The award-winning event and art festival production company, Amdur Productions, Inc. annually produces more than 25 events including food, music and juried art festivals in the greater Chicago and Milwaukee area. Founded by Amy Amdur more than 40 years ago and known nation-wide for producing many of the Midwest’s most respected and popular juried art festivals. Full schedule HERE!
Ronald McDonald House Charities will host its annual gala on Saturday, April 29, at The Geraghty. The invite asks guests to wear their favorite red shoes–anything from sneakers to stilettos. The gala will be emceed by Ryan Baker (CBS-2 anchor). Complimentary valet parking. More details here!
Expo Chicago, the International Exposition of Contemorary & Modern Art, will return April 13- 16 to Navy Pier's Festival Hall. Over 170 leading, international dealers will be participating. All details here!
The Chinese American Service Leaguewill host its 45th annual Spring Social on Wednesday, May 3. This chic networking event will feature cuisine from local restaurants, a live DJ, and a performance of dueling pianos! Judy Hsu will return as the evening's MC. The event will be held at the Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St. (All details here!)
Haute couturier James Galanos,
Join The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum at The Casino on Thursday, May 4, for an evening of cocktails and conversation as they welcome journalist and fashion collector David Nash and designer and author Steven Stolman to celebrate the work of America’s beloved haute couturier James Galanos. This
Author Steven Stolman.
presentation will showcase the work of Galanos through archival images, fashion-historic references, a display of vintage garments from Nash’s personal archive, and anecdotes from his
Journalist and fashion collector David Nash.
decade-long friendship with the celebrated fashion designer. Journey from Hollywood’s golden age to the Windy City’s stylish social scene, into the wardrobe of a First Lady and the collections at the Chicago History Museum, as you explore The Glory of Galanos: America’s Haute Couturier. Co-Chairs are Tanner C. Branson, Stuart Dyer, and Aaron J. Shirley. All info and tickets ($175) here.
The Big Shoulders Fund will host the next Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Humanitarian Award Dinner on Wednesday, May 24. Click here for more details, honorees and location.
Co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Tracey Tarantino DiBuono.
on the Terrace" fashion show and luncheon. The event will be held in the grand ballroom of The Peninsula Chicago and will feature some of Chicago's top retailers on the runway, with fashions worn by celebs, media stars and SC members. This event is always a sellout so grab your tickets now! Returning co-chairs are Jean Antoniou, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Sharyl Mackey. (All info here!)
The Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute's "Minds Matter" benefit will be held on Friday, May 5. The event will benefit the Institute of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and be held at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. Emcee will be MicahMaterre (WGN-TV). For tickets and more info, click here!
The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation will present its 17th annual Medical Briefing Luncheon "Bipolar Disorder Innovation – The Way Ahead" on Wednesday, May 10 at the Casino Chicago. Chaired by Marla London and Amy Morro, the event will feature panelists Dr. Andrew Nierenberg and Dr. Robin Nusslock. The Shining Star Award will be presented to Liz and Kent Dauten. (For event details, click here). ______________________________________________________________________
Janie Gobeli presents the Hope Through Caring Award to First Bank Chicago CEO and President Eric Ephraim.
US Congressman Mike Quigley (5th District) presents Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Award to Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya.
honoree Brian Wallach, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2017. He and his wife Sandra Abrevaya received the Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS Award for their sustained advocacy and for securing FDA approval for Relyvrio, a new drug for the treatment of people living with ALS. Eric Ephraim, CEO and president of First Bank Chicago, accepted the Hope Through Caring Award on behalf of all at his bank who have, over many years, supported the Foundation and continue to do so. MC Paul Lisnek introduced Andrea Pauls Backman, CEO of the Foundation, and Erin Reardon Cohn, Board chair. The evening included a paddle raise and live auction. After dinner, guests danced to the music of Rush Street Rhythm. (Photos by JeanLachatPhotography.com)
The beloved Randolph Street Market will return to Plumbers Hall on May 27/28 (Memorial Day Weekend) so mark your calendars now! You know Sally Schwartz will not only serve up loads of vintage treasures but also a FUN PARTEEE!!! Details here!
We will be taping my 2nd podcast this week but, in the meantime, if you missed the inaugural edition, check it out here! I hope you enjoy this front row seat to what’s happening in the Windy City! (Produced byJohn St. Augustine, who is also a part-time co-host, with opening by Jenniffer Weigel) LISTEN HERE!
That's all for this week! I hope you're enjoyed this jam-packed edition of Candid Candace and I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Easter weekend. For my closing video this week,I couldn't resist sharing an adorable German Netto ad that explores the origins of the Easter Bunny.
The original idea of the Easter Bunny, or Osterhase in German (literally Easter Hare), was in fact a very German creation dating back to the Middle Ages. By the 17th century, the Easter Bunny would bring eggs for children to discover on Easter. And the creature bringing treats wasn’t always a hare: there was also an Easter Fox, Stork and Crane in various regions before the hare became mainstream. But why a bunny? A big reason for this is that given their reputation for frequent reproduction, bunnies represent fertility and new life, just like eggs do, which are big themes of springtime and the Christian belief in Jesus' resurrection.
Le Select, the hot new restaurant from the Boka Group, comes to River North!
The hotly anticipated grand opening of Le Select, the French brasserie that is the newest addition to Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz’s expanding culinary empire,
Welcome to Le Select!
took place on January 25. Thanks to the throng of A-listers and foodies, the restaurant hummed with excitement for this handsome spot that will soon be on everybody’s Hot List. The River North restaurant at 504 N. Wells was formerly the Hudson, SushiSamba and lastly Bottled Blond. It is awash is calming shades of neutral browns and reds with scattered greenery and large, spacious booths. On this opening night, guests were greeted with champagne, an open bar and a lite buffet. On the first floor, the spacious dining room features row upon row of arching lights, which was reminiscent of lighting in
Monika Dixon, Kevin Boehm (co-owner Boka Rest. Group) and cute friend.
old time Paris dance halls. Upstairs, a dark, cozy bar area awaits with lots of intimate seating. Even the elevator to the 2nd floor has red lighting as a sexy promise of what’s to come. The Boka Restaurant Group always delivers and
Beautiful lighting in Le Select dining room.
this is definitely apparent in this 12,000-square-foot-space with an additional 2,000-sq-ft of event space. The Boka Boys have tapped Chicago native Chef Daniel Rose to help with this big endeavor. Rose rose to prominence with award-winning restaurants in Paris and New York. (This dynamic trio will soon be opening another eatery inside L.A.’s Hoxton Hotel, according to Eater). The Le Select menu is extensive with specialties of
Chuck and Michael Kutza celebrate the opening.
the house that include duck breast a l’orange, choucroute Strasbourgeoise (traditional sauerkraut, smoked sausage, veal boudin, thick-cut bacon, knockwurst), roasted chicken and cote de boeuf. Cara Sandoval is the restaurant’s service director (co-founder and GM of the two-Michelin-starred Oriole restaurant), Kevin Roskoskey is GM (a former operating partner at
Tom Kehoe and friend.
Scott Harris Hospitality) and chef is Audrey Renninger (moving from Paris where she worked at Rose’s La Bourse et La Vie). Renninger’s chef de cuisine is Chicago local Jason Heiman. Rob and Kevin are masters at bringing together the right teams for the right spots and, as you can imagine, they have nailed it on this one as well. Seen on the crowded scene were Monika Dixon with her handsome new fiancé, Donnie Madia, Dr. Julius Few, Michael Kutza, Nina Mariano, Pasquale Gianni, Jon Harris, Donnie Weisberg, Chuck Jordan, Tom Kehoe and so many others. See video here! (Le Select, 504 N. Wells St., Chicago, leselectchicago.com, 312.896.4504) Click here for more photos!
Marc and Dr. Jamie Pasquale (Board Chair) and Co-Chairs Devanee and Alex Washington.
The Children’s Research Fund’s signature event, “The Children’s Ball,” returned this year to the Hilton Chicago on December 3. Aptly themed “Re-Connect,” the event attracted more than 850 guests to the black-tie gala hosted by 2022 Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball Co-Chairs Devanee and Alex Washington. The Washingtons made it a family affair by involving their three dynamic children, who range in age from 11 to 16
Kenneth Milstead and Junell Lewis.
years old. Each had a role in the evening, introducing speakers and even reading an original poem based on the “ReConnect” theme. The evening began with a cocktail reception that opened with the drumline from Chicago’s St.
Alex Washington IV, Victoria Washington and Nadia Washington.
Ignatius College Prep. Guests were led into the International Ballroom for the first dance set by the headline band TimeChicago. After welcoming remarks, guests enjoyed an energetic set from youth band Next Week, followed by an elegant, seated dinner. A program featured an inspiring patient impact video and paddle-raise. Speakers for the evening included co-chairs Devanee and Alex
Children's Research Fund Board Chair Dr. Jamie Pasquale.
Washington, Dr. Tom Shanley (Lurie Children’s President/CEO) and Jamie Pasquale (Children’s Research Fund Chair). The audience was also inspired by the words and work of pediatric
Shannon Harvey, Dr. Jamie Pasquale and Katie Harvey.
neurosurgeon Dr. Sandi Lam, who spoke about the need to fund research “so that no child suffers from intractable epileptic seizures.” “The Children’s Research Fund has been committed to the advancement of research for more than 70 years,”
Teenage band, NEXT WEEK, performs.
explained Devanee Washington. “As parents, we share the belief that the good health of children is a precious gift, and we are honored to chair this year’s Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball.” Over $3 million was raised at the event, helping to reach a record-breaking $7.3
Lindsay Boles, Thomas Saleh, Thaddeus Chatto and Emily Hogikyan.
million total for the annual campaign. The funds raised will go towards the Children’s Research Fund’s current five-year, $10 million commitment to
Gabrielle Romano, Florence Ann Romano, AJ Ryan, Christiana Ryan and Benita Romano.
support the wide spectrum of research conducted at the Manne Research Institute and the Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.Over the 70 years since it was established as a fundraising organization, the group’s charitable efforts have generated support from individuals, corporations and foundations, raising more than $115 million to advance medical research. (This year’s leading event sponsors include, presenting sponsor, The Boeing Company, as well as CBRE, Inc., Wind Point Partners, and Wintrust, among others. luriechildrens.org, photos by Ana Miyares)
Gabrielle Romano, Christiana Ryan, Benita Romano, Laura Ferrara and Florence Ann Romano.
Damarr Brown, chef de cuisine at Virture, is nominated for Emerging Chef in this year's James Beard Awards.
Chicago snagged 11 nominations in this year’s James Beard Awards! The full list of 2023 Restaurant and Chef Awards Semifinalists can be found here and on the James Beard Foundation website. Nominees will be announced on
Chicago snagged 11 nominations in this year's James Beard Awards!
Wednesday, March 29, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Smyth,Obelix and Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining are among the 11 Chicagoland restaurants named as semifinalists for the
Obelix, at 700 N. Sedgwick, is up for a James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant.
James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards. Damarr Brown, chef de cuisine at Virtue, is among semifinalists for Emerging Chef. Virtue’s chef and owner, Erick Williams, won a James Beard Award last year for Best Chef: Great Lakes. Other local highlights include Sepia, a semifinalist in the Outstanding Hospitality category, and All Together Now, which is up for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program. Five Chicago restaurants made the cut (out of 20) for Best Chef: Great Lakes: Diana Dávila Boldin (Mi Tocaya
Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining, 2043 W. Howard, is up for Best New Restaurant from the James Beard Awards.
Antojería), Thai Dang (HaiSous), Paul Fehribach (Big Jones), Tim Flores and Genie Kwon (Kasama) and Zubair Mohajir (Wazwan). In the Best New Restaurant category, two Chicago candidates will vie for the honor: Obelix, the
Sepia's Emanuel Nony must be so excited!
beautiful French restaurant from brothers Oliver and Nicolas Poilevey; and Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining, one of only two Cambodian restaurants in Chicago. (See Eater’s list of 25 Best New Restaurants in Chicago.) The James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards—established in 1990 and first awarded in 1991—are one of five separate recognition programs of the Awards. This Awards program celebrates excellence across a range of experiences, from fine-dining establishments to casual gems, and emerging talents to established masters. The 2023 Restaurant and Chef Semifinalists are recognized across 23 categories, including the new Award for Outstanding Bakery.
How about a Chinese New Year Celebration with a Super Bowl of the city's top chefs in the kitchen, a guest list of bold-faced names a
Jesus Salgueiro and First Lady MK Pritzker.
mile long and décor that included painting the home’s halls RED to match the theme? Well, that was exactly the party that beloved Chef Art Smith and his husband/artist Jesus Salgueiro threw on January 26. A cold, snowy night didn’t keep the lines of cars from pulling up to the valet in Kenwood to make their arrivals. From the front door, all throughout the house, there were fantastic colorful decorations for this very special New Year soiree. Jesus’ wonderful artwork fills the memento-filled spaces – he even painted
Chefs Sarah Stegner and Tony Priolo.
and designed all the dinner mats for guests. It was sensory overload on all counts but, most of all, for the array of chefs assembled to cook the meal: Chef Tony Priolo (black truffle
Eric Kircherer, Manolis Alpogianis and George Alpogianis.
dumplings two ways); Chef Sarah Stegner (spring rolls and spicy mushrooms with shrimp); Chef Tigist Reda (whole fish); Chef Joe Flamm (longevity noodles); Chef Erick Williams (sui mai and garlic broccoli); Chef Brian Jupiter (rice cakes with crawfish and pickled shrimp); Chef Carol Cheung (Peking duck, jellyfish salad and Chinese egg tarts); Chef Hector Guerrero (Chinese BBQ ribs) and Tea Purveyor Annie Xiang (dragon well green tea and big red robe Wulong tea). Mai tais were served by Jade
With Manolis Alpogianis and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas.
Court’s Adrian Race. During welcome remarks Chef Art
Chuck and Marilynn Gardner, Pres/CEO Navy Pier.
thanked all the world-class chefs, especially for their contributions to the efforts in Ukraine as well as in Tigray, Ethiopia. Jesus said, “We always have a purpose which is to try to benefit someone in need, because that’s where our hearts are.” After the party, in keeping with this mission, food was delivered to the victims of the Kenwood high-rise fire that had taken place the day before. Guests included First Lady of Illinois MK Pritzker, Manolis Alpogianis, Eric Kircherer, George Alpogianis, Marilynn Gardner, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and Peter Kamberos, Perri Irmer, Roberto Gonzalez, Chilli Pepper, Steve Abrams, Nora Daley, Connie Pikulas, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson, Erin Solaro, Colin McMahon, Steve Dolinsky and Amy Dordek, Sylvia Perez with her beautiful daughter Magali, Shari Rogge-Fidler (CEO Farm Foundation), Gary Metzner and so many more.
Chef Hector Guerrero (L) and friends man the grill in the backyard for the Chinese BBQ ribs. Every chef was cooking their little hearts out!
The cozy and charming Armitage Ale House at 1000 W. Armitage.
From the outside, you would walk right past it and not even notice. But step through the doors of the Armitage Ale House at the northwest corner of Armitage and
Beautiful and delicious offerings at Armitage Ale House, NOT to be confused with the Old Town Ale House! LOL!
Sheffield and you have entered a whole new world. One you probably thought didn’t exist anymore in these modern times. Think London, circa 1926, a favorite neighborhood pub, but oh so much more. Steeped in ambiance, the restaurant's attention to detail is astounding. The woodwork you could even call
Friendly, gregarious servers at the Armitage Ale House.
masterful, from the rolled columns to the beadboard pass-throughs, even the secret places where only the help goes has not been left unattended. The fireplace in the dining room warmly reflects the delight on the diners’ faces as they tuck into tandoori-style roasted chicken, English-cut prime rib, truffle bucatini, pot pies (steak and ale, chicken, spiced lamb, pheasant and morel, oxtail and red wine) and so much more. The booths are cozy and spacious with each one lit by tiny, vintage
With Nina Mariano, Susanna Wickham, Kathy Piccone, Jennifer Sutton Brieva,and Paul Iacono.
looking shaded lamps. The room lights are perfectly dimmed and you just never know when a customer might get busy on the antique piano in the corner of the charming bar. The background music, thankfully, matches the ambiance to a tee. This spot is one of my new favorites, but be forewarned, reservations are hard to come by. A friend of mine even made reservations before she had guests to invite, just to be safe! (Opened October 2022, armitagealehouse.com, 1000 W. Armitage, resy.com, open for brunch). (Special thanks to Jennifer Sutton Brieva for the intro!)
Intimate, old world atmosphere at Armitage Ale House, 1000 W. Armitage.
It was a sell-out for First Bites Bash! Shown here, the Harrington Family (Michael, Barb and Charlie Dwyer) and friend.
The official kickoff to the 16th annual Chicago Restaurant Week, First Bites Bash, brought thousands of people to the Chicago Field Museum on January 19. Tickets sold out in record time for this happy celebration of Chicago’s
Part of the Robert's Pizza & Dough Company team – Justin Hokin, Dana Hokin Garvey and Robert Garvey.
culinary scene. The purple and white up-lighting out front shined like a beacon for guests who were anxious to welcome back this annual party that was held for the first time since the pandemic. Gourmet bites, wine, beer and spirits from over 50 vendors filled the Great Hall as DJ’s pumped music into the background. Robert
Gene & Georgetti's was well represented at the event.
Orso’s Italian Restaurant, STK Steakhouse, Pinstripes, Jaleo, NoMI,Nonnina, and so many more. Seen on the scene, Sylvia Perez (Fox-32 TV) with her beautiful daughter, Sam Toia (President of the Illinois Restaurant Association), Lisa Fielding (WBBM-AM 780) and friends, Charlie Dwyer and Michael and Barb Harrington (Darvin Furniture), and so many more. Beloved Chef Darnell Reed of Luella’s Southern Kitchen served as the Host Chef for the event. A portion of the proceeds from the kick-off will be donated to Kitchen Possible, an organization dear to Chef Reed’s heart – it empowers kids in underserved communities through cooking. “I’m just happy that we’re all here because we survived. We survived COVID, we’re all here,” said Reed. The event also benefited the James Beard Foundation Foundation’s Scholarship Program, which assists aspiring and established culinary professionals. During the week from January 20 through February 5, enjoy special prix fix menus from over 300 participating restaurants around town. Check out list here, reservations are highly recommended.
Newlyweds Derrick Joseph Taylor and William Scott Ellsworth.
When you think of fairytale weddings, do you have one that comes to mind? Well, on January 21 in the Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel, Chuck and I experienced one of the most magical weddings we've ever seen. Popular event
Spectacular decor by Taylor & Company and colleagues.
and wedding planner Derrick Joseph Taylor had the chance to create his very own fairytale with now-new-husband William Scott Ellsworth. (And yes, they met through a dating app so that just tells you that online dating definitely is an option!) From the moment you entered the French Room, where an elegant cocktail reception awaited, until the very last dance followed dinner in the most beautiful room in the
Chuck with wedding party members Aurora Sexton and Erica Goldman.
city, the Gold Coast Room, attendees experienced pure magic. The room was decorated in grand, understated elegance with the florals, crystal, vases, chairs, bars and even the silver reflecting carpet leading to the ceremony, all matching the existing decor–brilliant! There were absolutely no mistakes, no missteps, nothing that didn't fit perfectly in that fantastical dreamscape. All of the wedding party was dressed in black and white, carrying long bouquets of white freesia. Even the couple's dachshunds wore outfits that matched the wedding party– black organza with brilliant, sparkling brooches on top. At the podium, the wedding party gathered round Derrick and Scott as they exchanged their vows. Derrick said, "You acknowledge my strengths and accept all of my faults, allowing me to be broken in your arms — the safest place I've ever been. You make me want to be a better person every single day. You were so worth
The fabulous TJ Crawley.
the wait. You are a million dreams and a million prayers come true." Scott replied, "From our finest hour to our darkest hour, I will be there for you, holding your hand, walking through every doorway together." There wasn't a dry eye in the house. The happy couple
James and Michelle Gustin.
also adhered to an old tradition, especially popular in farming communities, of donning crowns which symbolize power and dignity. Derrick and Scott were surrounded with love from both sets of parents as well as Scott's daughter Madison Ellsworth. Following the ceremony, guest enjoyed champagne, cocktails and delicious hors d'oeuvres. A darling "Ring the Bell" station supplied guests with the signature cocktail of the night through a closed curtain when they rang a bell. It went off throughout the reception, as you can imagine! LOL! For the seated dinner, guests enjoyed the music of the always fabulous Tina Jenkins (TJ) Crawley, a string quartet and more. It was truly one of the most beautiful and touching ceremonies we've had the honor of witnessing. Long may you love Derrick and Scott!
Derrick, Scott and the wedding party, straight out of central casting. Long may they love!
Ken Norgan (center) with Matt Olaveson and Adam Vitale.
And speaking of happy moments, birthday wishes are in order for Ken Norgan! For his 80th, he feted friends at Nico Osteria on Rush Street. The top floor was filled with friends, many from his longtime affiliations with the arts
Greg Thompson, Jose "Pepe" Conforme and Greg Cameron.
and nonprofits, including several who flew in from around the globe to celebrate this milestone birthday. Ken is a board member at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, on the board of trustees for the Swedish American Museum, was on the board of directors for the Lyric Opera, the Swedish Covenant Hospital Foundation Board, the Bernadotte Foundation for Children's Eyecare, on the board of Common
Ken with Helen Melchior and her daughter Corinne Melchior Doerr.
Threads, among others. He was a McDonald's franchise owner for 55 years, having retired in 2013 to travel the world and visit with friends. Ken was kind enough to
Ken's longtime friends from Switzerland – Barbara and Norbert Steinbrecher with son Jan.
introduce me to Ronald McDonald House Charities where I eventually helped found its Women's Board for the House at Lurie Children's. As you can see, he is a very popular guy who I know for a fact has never met a stranger. The party celebrated Ken and a life very well lived with toasts, happy chatter, photo opps and more. In the downstairs area of the
Joan Harris and Ken.
restaurant, photos flashed across a wide screen filled with images of Ken's full life. Seen on the scene were Jose "Pepe" Conforme, Joan Harris, Greg Thompson and Greg Cameron, Neal Zucker and Marko Inglendza, Amelia and Alejandro Silva, John Walcher, Helen Melchior,
James Kinoshita, Merrillyn Kozier (President of the Harris Theater Board) and Franco LaMarca.
Sean Eshagy and hubby, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy, Paul Iacono, Anne Kaplan, Marc DeMoss, Matt Olaveson, Craig Bergmann and Paul Klug, Brian and Robin Velo, Vanessa Grace, Patrick Gleason, Corinne and Chris Doerr, Diane and Richard Weinberg, Alexandra Nichols (who went to the same school in Bad Reichenhall (Bavaria) in the 1960s as Ken), Mara Mills Barker, James Kinoshita, Merrillyn Kozier (President of the Harris Theater Board), Franco LaMarca, Adam Vitale, Jan Steinbrecher and his parents Barbara and Norbert Steinbrecher (who flew in from Switzerland), Louise Frank and so many more. What a great celebration for a fabulous man. Love and congrats Ken, here's to 80 more! (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
Ken Norgan, surrounded by love and friends on his birthday at Nico Osteria.
Gordon Ramsay is loving Chicago! So much so, that he's decided to expand into the suburbs in the spring, into downtown Naperville. The celebrity chef will be opening Ramsay's Kitchen, just the third in the nation, at 39 W. Jefferson Ave., the site of the former Ted's Montana Grill and Oswald's Pharmacy just west of South Washington Street. Ramsey entered the Chicago restaurant market in 2021 with the opening of Gordon Ramsay Burger at 2 E. Ontario. He has 21 restaurants in the U.S. Glad you're realizing that Illinois is THE place to be Gordon!
her offices on January 27. Casey was accompanied by her Court, the Shannon Rovers and Jim Coyne, business manager for Plumbers Local 130, the title sponsor of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. As always, the place was packed with Maria's friends and fans.
SC Aux Board pres Andrea Antoniou, Alpana Singh and SC pres Jean Antoniou.
Congrats to the Service Club of Chicago's Auxiliary Board, who are expertly following in the footsteps of the nonprofit's "big" board with their fun fundraising efforts. SC Aux Board President Andrea Antoniou welcomed the sell-out crowd to Gibson's for a luncheon keynoted by restaurateur/master sommelier Alpana Singh. Alpana shared her inspirational life
Paula Borg and Chilli Pepper.
story of perseverance and hard work, starting in grade school, which propelled her to be the youngest master sommelier by age 26. There are only 262 in the world and only 27 are women! An illustrious career continued, hosting "Check, Please," followed by a stint with Rich Melman, and then four successful restaurants including the eponymous Alpana. Trickled throughout, she dropped nuggets of wisdom, perseverance, hard work, can-do, and a never surrender attitude. Finally, In the theme of New Year, New Me, she presented the idea of building a sort of personal 3 point strategic plan for yourself, which impressed many. Alpana's dear friend, Chilli Pepper, was also in the crowd cheering her on.
SC Board members Mary Lasky and Sherry Lea Fox with Grace Lasky and friends.
And speaking of the Service Club, be sure to mark your calendars for this year's exciting Spring Luncheon, aka the"Hat Luncheon," on Monday, May 8 at the Langham Chicago. This year's event will be co-chaired
SC Hat Luncheon co-chairs Bethany Florek, Whitney Reynolds and Julia Jacobs.
by Julia Jacobs, Whitney Reynolds and Bethany Florek. Upcoming events for your calendar are: Day on the Terrace (Monday, August 7), Annual Gala (Friday, November 3) and the Holiday Luncheon on Tuesday, December 5. It's never too early to plan ahead!
Christine Rocas and ensemble in the Joffrey Ballet's "Anna Karenina." (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
Here are some other events I recommend that are coming soon! The Joffrey Ballet remounts Yuri Possokhov’s blockbuster Anna Karenina for the first time since its crowd-pleasing world premiere in 2019. Based on the novel by Leo Tolstoy, Possokhov’s immersive adaptation—winner of the 2019 “Oscars of Dance” Benois de la Danse International Prize for Best Choreography—features an original composition by award-winning composer Ilya Demutsky, costumes and sets by Emmy Award-winning designer Tom Pye, and lighting by famed designer David Finn. Anna Karenina will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in Chicago, in ten performances only, from February 15-26.
Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez in the Joffrey Ballet's "Anna Karenina." (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
18 at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel in Chicago. This black-tie optional event will gather together the ALS community and advocates to help raise money and awareness for ALS and ALS research. The event will celebrate Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya with First Chicago Bank honored as the Hope Through Caring Award Recipient.
With pianist Gabriela Montero and Chuck.
Congrats to Music of the Baroqueon the success of its recent performances with world renowned Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Montero. She gave fans a preview of her incredible talents at the University Club on January 19 before her two performances of "Montero Plays Mozart"–
It was a packed house for Gabriela's "sneak peek" at the University Club.
one at the Harris and one at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts. Declan McGovern, MOB Executive Director, conducted a fascinating Q&A where her charming personality shone as brightly as her skills on the piano. She shared that her grandmother gifted her with a toy piano at age 1 1/2. Gabriela was still in the crib and remembered picking out keys with her fingers. Her mother wisely recorded 150 of her early attempts which she proudly said "still holds up"! (baroque.org)
Steve and Marty Darvin.
And to my friends at Darvin Furniture Furniture & Mattress, congrats to your co-founders Steve and Marty Darvin, for being chosen as this year's recipients of the City of Hope's "Spirit of Life" award! They will be honored at an awards dinner April 23 in South Carolina. The City of Hope is one of the nation's largest cancer research and treatment organizations and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. Darvin is Chicagoland's largest furniture and mattress store, that celebrated its 102nd anniversary last year! (For a donation of $100 to City of Hope, you will receive a $200 discount on a qualifying purchase at Darvin.)
WHIM, a new pop-up experience coming to Stage 773.
Chicago has a brand-new pop-up experience that gives guests “second chances.” Whim, a one-of-a-kind Willy Wonka-esque interactive playground features a walk-through experience that is “creative, compelling, highly visual, thought provoking and utterly original.” Over a dozen Chicago artists and designers worked to create this
WHIM open now!
visual eye candy journey that includes 9 rooms of “Second Chances,” with each room themed around one word that is important in getting to a “second chance.” Located on Stage 773 at 1225 W. Belmont. WHIM invites guests to partake in a whimsical night out inside a world where every art form comes together – paintings, music, sculpture, street art, and live performance. WHIM leads visitors across a path of dreamlike theatricals that immerse the individual into an eclectic range of perspectives. The overall piece is an artistic meditation on time – how we use it, how we waste it, and how it is our most precious gift. (For more information, visit whimchicago.com, open now through March.)
That’s it for another action-packed couple of weeks! Whew! As we wrap up January, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your continued support of my 15-old blog, where I have always tried to positively showcase the many wonderful charitable causes and events hosted throughout
Cheers and thank you!
the year, as well as feature the uniquely talented and kind people that represent our beloved city. This year, I'm excited to expand my blog’s reporting and frequency of getting the latest news to my loyal readers. Expect even more insider news, great photos and fun updates on the latest civic and philanthropic events, as well as ways you can become involved, too!
As I expand Candid Candace, I would love your continued support! For all those organizations and advertisers out there, I would appreciate you considering advertising/sponsorship opportunities to help me further expand our reach to even more people in your networks. So, as you review and allocate advertising/marketing resources for 2023, please consider becoming one my exclusive digital advertisers to receive special shout outs and mentions for your organization’s fundraising events, galas and latest news.
It’s because of YOU that I get to do what I love every single day. I send you all my deepest thanks for your continued support, loyalty and the great pitches and photos you send me so I can continue featuring the many Windy City events and causes that we all love and want to know more about!
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. Something to leave you with a smile……Pip saves the day.
Steppenwolf Theatre Company hosted its first virtual gala which replaced its popular, signature fundraiser that's usually held every year around
Ensemble member/event host Audrey Francis shows off her "Chicago Acts Together" t-shirt that is bringing in funds for the theatre community.
this time. In spite of the lack of closeness and the thrill of seeing all of Steppenwolf's celebrity ensemble members in person, the event was really, really special! People could join the virtual party for free this year which I'm
Chicago's First Family welcomed viewers.
sure attracted new supporters. AND it raised over $640,000! The "Pants Optional" event was hosted by ensemble member Audrey Francis from the Frost Chicago Broadcast Studio, where event planner extraordinaire Jeffrey Foster had worked his magic. It went off without a hitch. Mayor Lori
Steppenwolf executive director David Schmitz and artistic director Anna D. Shapiro.
Lightfoot and her family, First Lady Amy Eshleman (a longtime Steppenwolf trustee) and First Daughter Vivian, welcomed viewers. Amy said, "Investing in
Ensemble member and Steppenwolf co-founder Gary Sinise.
Steppenwolf education is now more important than ever…You're not only investing in the ensemble of art-makers and appreciators, but I believe 100% that you're investing in the future of Chicago." Then it was turned back over to host Audrey who quipped, "If it was this
Ensemble member Laurie Metcalf.
time last year, I'd be sausaged into a cocktail dress wearing heels wishing that I was wearing pajamas on my couch. So, we have made some of my dreams come true tonight." Audrey talked about the theatre company sitting on native lands and acknowledged the
Steppenwolf "Pants Optional" host Audrey Francis on the set of the Frost Chicago Broadcast Studio designed by Jeff Foster.
tribes that were members of the Council of Three Fires. She wore a "Chicago Acts Together" t-shirt, that Steppenwolf created to support the theatre community and those who had lost work. To date, the shirt has brought in over $30,000 for this initiative. Ensemble members including John Malkovich, Laurie Metcalf, Gary Sinise and others were joined by celebrity guests Claire Danes, Armie Hammer, Shonda Rhimes and Chris Rock in teen interviews, inspiring viewers from the comfort of their homes. Broadway’s Phillipa Soo
Chris Rock speaks with a teen from the Young Adult Council of Steppenwolf.
and Steven Pasquale made a surprise appearance in support of Steppenwolf and serenaded the audience. Grammy Award-winning DJ Tracy Young kept the party going by spinning music live from Miami for Steppenwolf’s expanding global community of artists, fans
Ensemble member John Malkovich gives some acting advice.
and donors to connect, engage and take a collective breath. When the first online bid came in at $10,000, it was quickly matched by longtime trustee Sarah Beardsley. Next, artistic director Anna D. Shapiro and executive director David Schmitz, addressed the audience. "Because of the Covid crisis, we had to close 3 shows that were running. We had standing room only on all of these shows and had to cancel over 200 upcoming performances…We like to be in the same room together celebrating storytelling with
Virtual gala co-chairs Sandra Marquez and ensemble members Audrey Francis, Joan Allen and Gary Cole.
people. We're figuring it out though and plan on bringing you virtual programming. Nothing
Ensemble member Caroline Neff.
replaces live theater. We will find this feeling again together however we can, " Shapiro said. (To date, the company has 20 virtual programs running for 3000+ attendees/viewers from across the country.) Members of the Young Adult Council of Steppenwolf asked ensemble members questions and for advice. Company co-founder Gary Sinise was asked, "What were you like when you were my age?" He
Pulitzer Prize winning playwright, Steppenwolf ensemble member Tracy Letts.
replied, "I discovered theater when I was 16 at Glen Ellyn Junior High. We moved to Highland Park and I was struggling academically. Music and playing in bands saved me. I stumbled into theater when a drama teacher approached me and my band-mates hanging out in the hallway and suggested we audition for a play." He continued, "Steppenwolf was started by teenagers and it always warms my heart when I think about young people walking into this [Steppenwolf] building and realizing this was all started by the passions and excitement of kids just like them." Writer/producer Shonda Rhymes was asked how she manages self-doubt while still maintaining a sense of
Ensemble member Kathryn Erbe.
dignity in her work. She said, "Growth doesn't always have
Shonda Rhimes
to be completely filled with joy. There's always a little bit of growing pains. Embrace the doubt and fear and then rise from it, it always makes you better." Other ensemble members shared their thoughts on the one piece of advice they would give their younger selves. Comments included 1) Observe and pick up stories as you go, 2) Come in with your own work and don't wait to be told what to do, 3) Own being an
Award-winning actors Phillipa Soo and Steven Pasquale (husband/wife) closed the event with a song.
artist and embrace it, 4) Balance work and play, 5) Mind your money! Start saving now!, 6) Memorize your damn lines! Of all this advice, I think Armie Hammer's was my favorite. "If I could tell myself one thing in high school, it would be it doesn't matter what anyone in H.S. f-cking thinks of you because they, also, have no idea what they're doing in life, no one does. You're a high school kid, you're an
The team behind the hit play "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter."
idiot and the fact that you value someone else's opinion above your own is asinine. But I did, we all do it. My advice, f_ck 'em, f_ck 'em all. They're idiots." LOL! Chris Rock spoke about how he got started in comedy (by accident) and John Malkovich shared what
Claire Danes
it was like bringing character Lennie Small to life in the play "Of Mice & Men." "I think the reason that the book is still being taught is because most kids, and people, feel like an outsider…It's a book about people who can't read the signs and I think that's most people." On why live theater is important for young students, Malkovich
Armie Hammer (with a new, interesting haircut).
shared, "Theater is a great venue for the study of ourselves and others and high school is a great age to start it." Ensemble member Ian Barford, following a few comments, dropped his pants and showed his bum to the camera, taking the "Pants Optional" theme
Ensemble member/Steppenwolf co-founder Jeff Perry.
literally. LOL! The event was co-chaired by trustees Susan Berghoff and Ann Phillips. "Together, we will keep the virtual lights on." This year’s free online event opened the virtual doors to a much larger audience, including viewers from across the United States, Canada, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, India and New Zealand via Steppenwolf’s YouTube
Ensemble member Gary Cole.
stream. The video, which can still be viewed on Steppenwolf’s YouTube Channel, boasts over 5,500 views. Donations continue to mount via text and online. To contribute and watch the virtual event, click here! Proceeds from this event
Grammy Award-winning DJ Tracy Young.
support, in part, the remount of I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, this season’s Steppenwolf for Young Adults’ hit world premiere based on the award-winning novel by Erika L. Sánchez, adapted by celebrated Chicago playwright Isaac Gómez and directed by ensemble member
Co-chairs/trustees Susan Berghoff and Ann Phillips.
Sandra Marquez. The extended and sold out run was cut short by the COVID-19 crisis, which inspired Steppenwolf to raise money to bring back to life this essential Chicago story for thousands of high schoolers clamoring to see it, including youth detained and incarcerated at three juvenile justice facilities that the show planned to tour to. The Steppenwolf Education program reaches over 20,000 teens and adults annually.
Living in a lockdown-weary world hasn't been easy for anyone. As I sit here feeling sorry for myself and scrolling through Instagram at all hours of the day and night, I thought it might be fun to find out how others around town (and across the country) might be coping with this stay-at-home order. So, I asked some of my friends with bold-face names a few questions. 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. and 4) What are you missing the most right now? Their answers were thoughtful, funny, moving and inspiring and told me that we are certainly not in this alone. It made me feel better to hear their thoughts and see some really adorable photos. I hope you feel the same. Thanks to all who participated. I had a zillion more people I wanted to talk to but didn't want to try your attention spans. So, in no particular order, here's what some of the city's newsmakers and difference-makers had to say:
From everybody's favorite tech genius, HOWARD TULLMAN: 1) What has saved you during lockdown? The 4000 meals prepared for me by my wonderful wife [Judy]; our dogs and having a yard to escape into and get some
Howard getting some much needed rest with a good friend.
fresh air. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Losing all the weight I gained from the 4000 wonderful meals and wearing a pair of pants that requires a belt. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without? The amazing fruit at the Cermak Fresh Market on Diversey and my Kindle and the 200 books I read. 4) What are you missing the most right now? My daughters and granddaughers. Zoom just doesn't cut it. (Amen to that Howard!) _______________________________________________________________________
Ravinia's Nick Pullia.
From Ravinia Festival's Director of Communications NICK PULLIA: "My pets have been my greatest comfort. I have three big dogs and three big birds and I am nowhere close to being the Alpha of the pack. At first it was hard to work from home because the pets assumed that, if I was home, that must mean that it was time for me to play with them. That ended the
Nick Pullia and his 30 year-old Moluccan cockatoo Elliott.
third week. Now they look at me like I'm a vagrant with no friends and no prospects. And it's especially hard to write from home because my beautiful 30-year-old cockatoo, Elliott, calls me by name, "Hi, Nick," so frequently that I'm the one about to fly over this cuckoo's nest! 2) What are you most
Nick's handsome pack.
looking forward to when this is over? You know the song, "People," the corner stone of Mount Streisand? It's about me. I'm that person who needs people. I love to go shopping on Black Friday. I love to go to opening night of a blockbuster movie. And, of course, I love the throngs
Close-up of Nick's beautiful dog, Chicago!
of concertgoers. I miss the crowds. Nothing gives off better energy and pure joy than a group of people doing what they love. 3) Name one item you couldn't live without? For the past two weeks of this quarantine, my refrigerator/freezer has been kaput. After a couple of failed service attempts, a new one is on the way. But it has been very difficult having no refrigerator at a time
Nick's fabulous sense of humor gets him through any crisis!
when you're supposed to stay in the house. I know that's a good thing in a way or else I'd be having a menage a trois with Ben and Jerry right now. 4) What are you missing the most? I am missing "light at the end of the tunnel," which for me would have been the opening of the Ravinia 2020 season. The hope of a full and fun concert season with performers from King Crimson to John Legend, and of course, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, was keeping me bouyant. But we had to cancel for the safety of our artists, audiences, staff and neighbors. It was the right decision, but it's going to be a quiet summer. As you know, I'm not a fan of quiet.
Man-about-town, philanthropist and Chicago Dowel Company president PAUL IACONO: 1) What has been the most comforting? Cooking. Nothing comforts like
Paul's Beef Bourguignon is a specialty. He's rediscovered his cooking skills during this difficult time!
comfort food, especially when you cook it for yourself (including baking my own birthday cake); Cleaning and organizing closets. It's something I would never have had the time nor inclination to do. I'm a (former) pack rat. Who knew? 2) What are you most looking forward to? Having a flattened Covid curve and belly curve and, of course, being out on our gorgeous Lake Michigan with dear friends. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My Dutch oven, cheese and Johnnie Walker Black, not necessarily in that order. 4) What are you missing the most right now? A haircut, a hug and my cleaning lady.
Auction house maven, world traveler and woman of the world LESLIE HINDMAN: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting? Nature. I've been in Florida and am so lucky to have been able to walk a lot and spend time
Leslie Hindman with her elegant mom on her 89th birthday.
outdoors by the ocean, surrounded by beauty. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is over? Spending time with friends! Everyone feels the same. I miss my friends!!! 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. Good television and good books! (I couldn't agree more Leslie, we've been binging Netflix' Penny Dreadful, Babylon Berlin and Hollywood and are now watching The Tudors for the 2nd time!) 4) What are you missing the most right now? Human contact, hugging the people I love.
Actress, writer, director and all-around cutie Leslie Zemeckis.
Even though actress/author/ film producer LESLIE ZEMECKIS doesn't live in Chicago full time, she and filmmaker/husband Robert Zemeckis, still count since they have a home here. So, Leslie, what has saved you? Having a routine, yet remaining flexible. I divide my
Leslie, amid her vintage showgirl collection holding one of her books, "Feuding Fan Dancers."
day with exercise, writing, reading, some outdoor time and a little too much baking! I'm plotting my future work and included silly things like sketching or collaging. Yet sometimes I don't feel like it so, instead, I'll throw the routine away and listen to what my soul needs. Maybe cleaning a drawer (I know, but I like organizing) or dancing with my daughter making a stupid Tik Tok video. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is over? Travel, especially to Italy where my heart is. I miss the world and I miss my friends. Real in person connection. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without. Tequila. Or possibly vodka. (You're a girl after my own heart Leslie!)
Owner of Chicago boutique Ikram, one of fashion's most powerful retailers and designer king-maker, IKRAM GOLDMAN: 1) What has saved you Ikram during lockdown?
The Goldmans enjoying nature.
Getting to spend time with my husband and twin boys. Cooking. Reading. Watching old movies. 2) What are you looking forward to when this is over? Getting my hair colored! The outline of my grey looks like the Alps! 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without. My mask. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Being with friends whether at the store or out for dinner.
Melissa Forman checking household chores off her list.
Former co-host of WCIU's "YOU & ME'" and now superstar radio personality on 93.9 LITE FM, MELISSA FORMAN: 1) Melissa, what has been the most
Melissa's husband of 17 years, Scott, helps with the housework.
comforting? My pets, 2 dogs and a cat. I never thought I would need a snuggle so much. Plus, getting to see exactly what they do 24 hours a day has been a treat (they're really pretty lazy). 2) What are you most looking forward to? My hair stylist! I mean, that is, if she even recognizes me. I may also want to hug my dentist. 3) What couldn't you have lived without? My grey, fuzzy bathrobe. My mom wants to burn it after seeing me in 1000 FaceTime videos wearing it. 4) What are you missing the most right now? I'm missing nothing. Keeping friends, family and fellow Chicagoans safe by staying home is something that helps me stay motivated. We will get through this together. Although, a good Saturday night dinner out wouldn't be bad!
Chef Art Smith has lost 70 lbs thanks to the regimen created by his trainer/friend/chef Lucas Cancelier.
World renowned and much loved CHEF ART SMITH: 1) What has saved you during lockdown Chef Art? Being in lockdown with my best friend Lucas Cancelier, a pro rugby player (@iamdapower) from Argentina. He has mentored me and helped me regain my health with a
Chef Art and his blueberries. Cooking has helped him through this.
70 pound weight loss. He inspired and reinvented me with my virtual hit cooking show "Chef Art Smith's Healthy Comfort" on Instagram Live, Wed., 3 pm Central time. 2) What are you looking forward to after this is all over? My kids going back to school and me going back to my favorite job as a restaurant owner. 3) Name one item you couldn't live without during this time. My Oster French Door Oven and baking my heart out! 4) What are you missing the most? My restaurant teams across America and, of course, my customers.
The cutest Corporate Hippie I know, Justine Fedak.
Corporate Hippie, motivational speaker, co-founder and principal at Instant Impact and 2021 Eversight Woman of Vision JUSTINE FEDAK: 1) What has been most comforting to you during lockdown? Meditation, I've
Justine Fedak
always practiced but now it's a faithful 5:30 am ritual on my terrace with the sun coming up. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over (besides spending time with me)? Going for dinner and cocktails with friends and hearing the hustle and bustle of a restaurant again. 3) Name one thing you couldn't have lived without during this time. My virtual Pilates and Strength Training. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Hugging my best friends.
Jim Smith and Greg Hyder, looking cute in their bandana masks.
Peninsula Hotel's Director Style & Community Relations GREG HYDER and his partner JIM SMITH, Senior Project Manager for the American Hospital Association: 1) What has been the most comforting
Greg and Jim find solace in recreating family recipes.
during lockdown for you Greg? My MoMaw's recipes (his grandmother Lorena Smith) 2) What are you most looking forward to when this ends? Seeing my family in person instead of virtually. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without. Clorox wipes 4) What are you missing the most right now? Liver and onions at RL! And for you Jim? 1) Being with Greg 2) Going to Sidetrack 3) My elliptical machine 4) Our social life.
Author, philanthropist and current Service Club of Chicago president SHERRILL BODINE: 1) What has saved you during this tough time? I made a promise to help restaurants by ordering carry-out daily while we all shelter in place. It has taken on a life of its own! Now I dream about where to order from next and the tablescapes I can plan to go with the cuisine. I knew I could
Sherrill's having fun pairing her nightly carry-out cuisine with her table decor.
write books but I didn't realize I could be visually creative! 2) What are you looking forward to when this is all over? Traveling! My wanderlust is threatening a jail break? 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without? My computer! I have daily Zoom meetings with other writers and my critique group, plus meetings with chairs of Service Club plotting inventive ways to keep moving forward with our mission. I also always look forward to Friday Night Zoom Cocktail Party with three other couples, our "Night Out"! 4) What are you missing most right now? Spending time with family and friends and giving REAL hugs!
CS Mag's Man of style, philanthropist and MyEyeDr's Brand & Creative Strategist MICHAEL CAPUTO: 1) What has saved you? Watching every episode of
Michael's nightly salute to our first responders and frontline workers.
Downton Abbey, while today's world is changing rapidly, I'm enjoying the structured etiquette of Downton. 2) What are you most looking forward to? Choices and options 3) Name one item you couldn't live without during this time? I'm working from home so high-speed internet is the only game in town! 4) What are you missing the most right now? The freedom to go where I want and, of course, seeing all my friends in real-time!
Tracey Tarantino DiBuono shows off her longtime dance and work-out skills!
Special event producer, founder of ZZAZZ Productions, fashion influencer, philanthropist TRACEY TARANTINO DIBUONO: 1) Two practices have given me daily comfort. My faith has been my rock. I have used my time at home to dig deeper into my spiritual side. I am drawn to reading or listening to good meditations and affirmations along with all the
Tracey Tarantino DiBuono at Tom Kehoe's Green Market Garden pop-up.
prayers I know. The staple that teaches me to give up my fear and have faith and worry less is my yoga practice (ongoing now for 20 years). 2) What are you most looking forward to? I am looking forward to attending the things I am most committed to. First, family gatherings, and I'm going to be very grateful to be able to attend church again. Also, board meetings for philanthropic causes. And, of course, some simple haircuts would be grand too! 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without. Nail polish. My mother always said she needed to have her nails polished because they were brittle. Mine are the same. I also couldn't live without my dog. (Her nails need attention too!) 4) What are you missing right now? I miss the wisdom I get from being with others I enjoy. To be in the spirit of lively conversation is always so uplifting.
Award-winning radio show host Lisa Fielding working from home!
Reporter, writer, photographer, WBBM780 Radio star LISA FIELDING: 1) What has saved you during this lockdown Lisa? A comforting thing to me is that people now realize who the essential workers are. Not only first responders and health care workers, but grocery store clerks, public transit employees, postal carriers,
After this is all over, Lisa can't wait to get back to traveling.
fast food workers and yes, journalists, who are on the front lines as well. And, like many pet parents, my fur kids have been constant, comforting companions. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? This has been one of the most difficult mental struggles of this situation, not having anything to look forward to. I'm a big planner so, by now and under normal circumstances, I'd likely have my whole summer
We'd ALL rather be at Wrigley!
planned. I'm also looking forward to family gatherings, hugs from my nieces and nephews, my co-workers back in a bustling newsroom, warm nights at Wrigley Field, a show at the Nederlander Theater, strolls along the RiverWalk and, most of all, being able to plan that trip to somewhere I've never been. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. Two things! Books and Netflix. I talk about the pandemic all day so when I'm off the clock, I need something to escape. I've had the rare time to read and binge. 4) What are you missing the most right now? I love the bustling city. The empty, quiet downtown has been very unsettling. I can't wait until the true "energy" of Chicago returns. It's what I love best about living and working here.
Tom Kehoe surviving lockdown with his partner Abel Leon.
Entrepreneur, philanthropist, founder Kehoe Designs, The Geraghty, BlackOak Technical Productions, Floral Exhibits and the newly created Events-To-Go,TOM KEHOE: 1) Tom,
Tom Kehoe knows how to pivot!
what has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? First and foremost being with my guy, Abel [Leon] has been a godsend. Our daily workouts, keeping our routines and pivoting the business in new ways. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? A kick ass dance party (Amen to this!) 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My Peloton bike 4) What are you missing the most right now? Spending money.
Former White House Social Secretary for former President Obama's office, former CEO Johnson Publishing Company and current CEO of Black Opal, a recently launched cosmetics company, DESIREE
Desiree's Black Opal Cosmetics!
ROGERS: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? Daily check in conversations with family and friends. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Getting back into the office with my team and working on BK/OPL. We have so many new products to launch! 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. Orders from BOKA. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Freedom.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, aka the Dragon Lady.
Cook County Treasurer (since 1998), champion of the people, attorney, lover of yoga, great cook, MARIA PAPPAS: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? Visiting business owners who needed help applying for loans ….nothing like human contact. 2) What are you most looking
Maria Pappas unwinds with exercise.
forward to when this is all over? Large dinner parties followed by sing-a-longs. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My Chinese doctor gave me an herbal tea and told me if I drink it every day, I will be fine. I drink it every day and I continually test negative….maybe it's psychological! 4) What are you missing the most right now? All my office events and the people I used to hug and kiss.
Sherry Lea (Fox) Holson wearing a mask by desiger SYLWIA.
Philanthropist, founder of Chicago's Mask Program for essential workers, Service Club of Chicago Board of Managers SHERRY LEA (FOX) HOLSON: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? My Faith, friends and getting involved in a charity project. I like knowing that I am giving back in some small way. Helping our local businesses and also the designers to pay their bills and feed their families
Sherry wearing a mask and T-shirt by designer Peach Carr.
feels good! Additional plus, the public is also being protected with the Face Mask Order mandated. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Looking someone directly in their eyes while having a conversation! Laughing, loving! Seeing my family and friends, Church, Charitable Events, Favorite Restaurants, Outdoor Dining, etc., etc. And… wink wink, ordering a cocktail at a “real bar”! 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. Masks ! LOL!!! TV, Netflix, books, phone and iPad. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Human contact and touch. Through the “Hello”, hugs and kisses to direct conversations. Freedom to just do whatever …
Toni Canada celebrating her BFF Dusty Stemer's birthday.
Chief Human Resources Officer, American Medical Association, fashion influencer, longtime member of the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, TONI CANADA: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? We have been sheltering in place in Michigan which has
Beautiful vignette with lilacs from Toni's Michigan garden.
been a treat but I have been working nonstop since we went to WFH 9 weeks ago…… I'm completely exhausted but the days have flown by. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Having someone ask me "can I start you off with drinks and an appetizer" 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My solid wi-fi connection and my husband. 4) What are you missing the most right now? My friends…and eating out!
Founder of The Chicago International Film Festival, soon-to-be-author, film consultant, MICHAEL KUTZA: 1) What has saved you during lockdown?1) Netflix. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Going back to the movies at the Archlight. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time? Real movie theaters and vodka 4) What are you missing the most right now? Hanging out with friends like you and Chuck. Isolation doesn't bother me as I have always been isolated in movie theaters all my life, alone at Festivals. It's important to respect this Pandemic and take it seriously though.
Artist, writer, historian, chef, bon vivant, THOMAS O'GORMAN: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? The most sustaining element has been painting. I have a very rigorous painting schedule each day, which means that I have paintings at all stages of progress and completion…But I know that I have to balance
Painting is Thomas' passion. Here is a work in progress of 18th century Dublin Houses.
the day with writing and some reading and study. Painting is the glue of my living. Being able to pick up a brush when I want is a great luxury. Discipline is very critical for a painter. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Quite literally just getting out of the house. My quarantine is not cosmetic. My cardio condition means I won’t get any second chances. I have to be very careful. I have not budged since March 13. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My laptop is indispensable….It's the first thing I check each morning and the last thing I see at night….I have 5,000 friends on
Thomas, a master chef: Classic French Toast with blueberry compote syrup.
Facebook and my European friends are just getting started when I’m going to bed. I don’t have a television and I rely on my lap top for connecting me to the world. It's also critical to my literary world. In addition to my column [SKYLINE], which has its own deadlines, I’m working on two books, a history of Chicago and a cookery book. Cooking has always been a mainstay of my life. With painting and writing, cooking completes me. Rounds me out. 4) What
Tom O'Gorman and his trusty Iphone!
are you missing the most right now? I really miss the sociability of my life. Holding court at RL is very natural. The staff are all my buddies. I love the freedom I have with the menu. My soul gets fed there, too. Peter Axelsen, Jesus, Christopher, Molly, Anna and others have been a part of my life for ages. I miss them terribly, and the friends who gather there. I miss my friend Rose O’Neill, Myra Reilly, Diane O’Connell and Mark O’Malley. I miss bumping into my pals, Steve Lombardo and Johnny Coletti. The food I miss the most is West Coast oysters and crispy duck. I know that eventually we will all be together again. I’ve always been impatient. But I’ve gotten better.
Do-gooder, philanthropist, father of Grayson, Chicago Financial Services Co-op Lending Manager MARK OLLEY: 1) What has saved and comforted you during this trying time? That I am not alone, I have my husband to talk and laugh with, my family and friends to ZOOM with. Learning new skills, cutting hair, and
Mark Olley with his handsome son Grayson.
cooking… wait I need to add these skill sets to my resume! But our pup GRAYSON is a delight 24/7 he's our home's "healer and chief". And of course, we are all truly in this together. 2) What are you most looking forward to? Our FREEDOM- to come and go as we please, hold those we love close. I am a HUGGER this social distancing thing is simply is not in my DNA…3) Name one item you found you couldn't live without? My daily morning Starbuck's visit. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Big picture- Travel, close to home- Personal grooming (it truly takes a village!)
Editor-in-Chief/ Publisher Chicago Magazine, mother of Gus, lover of children and animals, print genius, SUSANNA HOMAN: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? My dachshund-mix,
I'll have what she's having! You go Susanna! Wowza!
[PAWS] rescue, Gus! I have never had the chance to spend this much time with him, and our bond keeps growing stronger. In the moments where the anxiety of this time is almost too much to bear, holding him makes it all better. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? I miss my parents, so most certainly visiting them, but also just a nice dinner at one of
Susanna and her darling goddaughter.
my favorite restaurants, like Piccolo Sogno, would feel like New Year's Eve right now. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. I invested in a new iPhone a couple of weeks before the lockdown began, not realizing what a lifeline it would become. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Spending time with my godchildren, CJ (who is 10) and Gia (who just turned 2). I typically babysit a couple of times a month, so I'm definitely missing the cuteness and the hugs.
Megan McKinney– author, historian, publisher Classic Chicago magazine.
Author, historian, publisher Classic Chicago magazine MEGAN MCKINNEY: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? I’m very fortunate because my life has changed very little. For almost five years I have worked all day in my office at home. My Classic Chicago business partner, Judy Carmack Bross, does the same. We meet by telephone several mornings a week and constantly by email. It was a pleasant routine and the lack of change has been very comforting. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? I’m looking forward most to long walks through the Gold Coast and along the lakefront in beautiful warm weather. And restaurants. I so miss sinking into a banquette at RL or Tortoise Supper Club for an afternoon of talk and lunch with longtime friends. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. My computer. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Second Tuesday lunches at RL.
Director of Special Events at Brian Atwood Designs, charity champion, fashionista, YOLANDA "DUSTY" STEMER: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? Having a brilliant Infectious Disease Expert sleeping next to me each night. Alex [Stemer] has been on calls and conferences with Rush, UNC and heads the Symphony system Covid response team for patients and staff. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? We are
Dusty's quarantine dinner table game is STRONG!
lucky to be in Indiana and be able to walk to the beach and the Dunes, but we are looking forward to enjoying dinner out with friends. And dare to dream of maybe being on an airplane going to a favorite vaca spot. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. Tequila and our BFF Jerry Mickelson!! 4) What are you missing the most right now? It's amazing how you miss human contact, whether it's family, friends or just seeing people in a grocery store. Zoom just doesn't replace the real thing!! I want to be normal again.
Kathy O'Malley Piccone and her friend Nikki Friar, social distancing in the park.
Managing Partner at Gibsons Restaurant Group, do-gooder, girl's girl, people lover, Hostess with the Mostest, KATHY O'MALLEY PICCONE: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? Most of all, my Faith and the Love and caring of my family and dear friends. Watching the goodness of people giving back. "Surprise" gifts, flowers and dinners being delivered. Never expected…So grateful. It warms my heart to order from local restaurants. 2) What are you most looking forward to
Kathy participating in a virtual Zoom Cocktail Party with the Service Club of Chicago.
when this is all over. My morning pilates and "Calm," taking deep breathes for the anxiety of the unknown. Music… Reading ..and some movies.. Above all Staying Positive. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? Simple Joys, a walk around the block will have a new meaning…never taking things
Kathy celebrating her BFF, Cheri James, birthday recently.
for granted. Gathering of friends. The awakening of things to come, for many to return to basics and kindness we were all born to share. Also looking forward to working with people again. I am such a nurturing, giving and caring person in need of social interaction, especially being in the hospitality business most of my life. I miss my Gibsons family and customers. 3) Name one item you couldn't live without during this time. The Internet …new ways to communicate. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Hugging my family and Friends, prosperity and just being free to come and go without second guessing. And let's not forget my hair salon, manicures and pedicures…LOL!
Myra and John Reilly think #togetherisbetter during lockdown, and always!
John Reilly Photography Partner, philanthropist, Service Clubof Chicago superstar, elegant MYRA REILLY and her photog superstar husband JOHN REILLY, Principal John Reilly Photography: 1) What has saved you, been the most comforting, during lockdown? That we are doing this together–cooking together and being able to work in our garden together and, most importantly, being able to have church services online. 2) What are you most looking forward to when this is all over? John can’t wait to get back to the studio and photographing, me, I miss seeing my family and giving them a big hug. 3) Name one item you couldn't have lived without during this time. They both said "each other"! And, together, we thank God for this time of reflection. 4) What are you missing the most right now? Being with friends and family and socializing with our “peeps”!
Oprah delivers powerful commencement speech for the Class of 2020.
I watched Oprah's greatly anticipated commencement speech for the Class of 2020 on May 15. She sure knows how to fire up a room. During the 90 minute live-streamed ceremony (I watched it on Facebook but know it appeared on other channels too), co-hosted by Mindy Kaling and B.J. Novak, a variety of stars gave advice to the graduating seniors including Jennifer Garner, Awkwafina, Amy Schumer, Matthew
John Mayer participated.
McConaughey, Gloria Estefan, Selena Gomez, Ashley Graham, Gordon Ramsey, Marlee Matlin, Steve Harvey, Usher, Sebastian Maniscalco, Tim Tebow, Andy Cohen, Rob Lowe, musician Marshmallow, Dice Nice, Hugh Jackman, supermodel Winnie Harlow, Simone Biles, John Mayer and dozens of others. Even Cookie Monster made an appearance! The ceremony acknowledged high schools and colleges in the U.S. by name, state by state, that included photos and videos of the class of 2020 and messages from students, deans and principals from across the country. Miley Cyrus "sang" " her hit song "The Climb" although it looked more like lip-synching to me (but at least she was there).
Gloria Estefan
Jennifer Garner introduced a spectacular group of high school students called the "Intonations" that sang a capella in perfect harmony. One of the many students spotlighted was Ashley Lawrence, a senior studying education for the deaf and hard of hearing at Eastern
Usher
Kentucky University. She created face masks for the hearing impaired that has a clear plastic window in the middle for lip reading. Genius! Brava Ashley! You're already a difference-maker! Here are some comments/advice the celebs had for the class of 2020: John Mayer–"I don't have to wait on the world to change anymore because I know, more than ever, that the
The Miz, professional wrestler and actor.
generation you're in has this handled." Matthew McConaughey–"Don't worry if you're not quite sure what you want to do in life. I'm 50 and have many days where I'm still not quite sure what I want to be. But I work on it, stay the process and try to enjoy it as much as I can." Simone Biles (world's most decorated gymnast)–"As an athlete, there's nothing quite like the
Steve Harvey represented for high schools in Ohio.
bus ride home after a win. You're happy because you've nailed it. This is your bus ride home. Your victory lap. I know you're missing your medal ceremony but that ceremony doesn't change a thing. You've already won." Steve Harvey-" It's the dreams I had in high school
Alright, alright Matthew McConaughey.
that made me what I am today. I'm a major, major star. I ain't messing around man. If it happened to me, why can't it happen to you? You have to lock in on that dream and never give up." Tim Tebow (all American quarterback)–"Life is not about tomorrow, it's not about the next day. It's about this day. And every day when you show up, know that you can show up with purpose and passion, every single day." Marshmallow-"Really look at yourself and ask what do I love doing, what makes me happy?" Rob Lowe–"Right now, you all have the ability to be the greatest generation the world has ever seen." Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco–"Whatever you do, do it 150%!" And now, to watch Oprah's powerful and inspiring commencement address, click HERE! (Congrats to the Class of 2020! May you light up the world with your good work!) The Facebook Watch group for this event numbered nearly 60,000 viewers.
Former President Obama welcomed guests to this virtual gala.
Bright Futures' Youth Guidance presented a spectacular virtual gala recently, raising over $1.1 million!! The event, co-chaired by Kimberly and Jim Mills, featured a donation segment led by auctioneer extraordinaire Greg "G-Man" Dellinger" with guest
Basketball star Jimmy Butler encouraged viewers to donate.
appearances interspersed throughout that included an opener/welcome from former President Barack Obama. Young people shared the impact the organization had in their lives through its various
Michelle Morrison, CEO Youth-Guidance.org, thanked viewers for their huge support!
initiatives and basketball star Jimmy Butler shared some inspiration for the kids. At the top donor level of $25,000, donations came in from Doug Walker, Mark Gerstein, Kimberly and Jim Mills, John and Diana Raitt, Maria Green and Greg Lewis and others. Auctioneer Dellinger became very emotional as the numbers climbed calling the supporters "change-makers for the kids." The event concluded with a heartfelt thank you from Youth Guidance CEO Michelle Morrison. The event will support the nonprofit's mission of supporting elementary and high school students through its many mentoring and counseling programs. The organization directly serves about 13,000 youth while touching the lives of hundreds more parents, schools and local communities.
For all of the fans of Bob Mariano (and who isn't?), I have great news! In a breaking story by Crain's Chicago, Bob is returning to the grocery industry with a $10 million investment to create a new chain aimed at combining shopping, restaurant dining and home delivery! The article by Dalton Barker, states: "The
Bob Mariano is BACCKKKK!!!
new venture, Dom’s Market & Kitchen, is planned for a March 2021 debut at a yet-to-be announced Lincoln Park location. The small-format store will feature specialty foods and take-home and dine-in meals prepared in an open kitchen. Groceries and meal-kits will also be available for delivery, according to a statement from the new company. It plans to add Chicago locations, focusing on urban neighborhoods, once its Lincoln Park spot is up and running. Mariano is partnering with fellow industry veterans Jay Owen and Don Fitzgerald to jumpstart the venture." Huge congrats Nina and Bob! We need YOU!!!
Photographer Jeff Cohen, making memories for charity.
For all those living on the North Shore, here's a great offer from a photographer/friend of mine Jeff Cohen Photography! He says, "After two+ months of creative inactivity, TV binge watching along with eating and drinking to excess, I’ve decided to get my butt off the couch and support those on the front lines fighting Covid-19 or who have been adversely affected by the virus. For a minimum donation of $50 to a First Responder’s charity or a local food bank, I'll come to your home or
Jeff Cohen Photography.
apartment and photograph your family in the safety and comfort of your porch or backyard. We'll gather for a 15 minute session of picture taking while keeping a safe distance. Within a few days I’ll send a high resolution gallery of images you can post on social media or make into prints. You'll have a bit of fun with your family, receive a record of this strange time and most important you'll help support a worthy cause. And for me I'll know my time, energy and creativity are helping those who are fighting the good fight every day. That's enough for me." What a great idea Jeff! Contact him here for more details and to book a day and time. Jeff@JeffCohenPhotography.com This offer expires 6/30/ North Shore Area Only. (And one more thing, Jeff knows his stuff, he was a senior art director for Playboy Magazine!)
The Peninsula brings the beats to pay tribute to the city and frontline workers.
During this time of isolation, music can be an especially uplifting and powerful way to bring the community together, while still observing social distancing. I love the sounds and songs coming from the balconies around the city every night at 8 pm. And now, The Peninsula Chicago is joining in the fun by offering live, upbeat music to celebrate the city and pay tribute to frontline responders. Listen for the trio on the Z Bar's rooftop terrace every Thursday at 8 pm. They play for 15 to 20 minutes! Area residents and responders can listen and sing along from their homes, or via a LIVE streaming broadcast on Facebook @peninsulachicago and Instagram @thepeninsulachi
If you're so inclined and have the means, please consider donating to the Chicago Independent Media Alliance – CIMA's month-long fundraising initiative, Save Chicago Media, to help support local Chicago news outlets. On this website, www.savechicagomedia.org, through June 5, you can donate one amount to be shared equally by the 43 outlets, or you can select individual outlets to give funds to. All money, up to $40,000, will be matched by generous local foundations. We need local, authentic media outlets to survive to tell the stories from and for their communities. Click here to choose an outlet and to donate. Any amount will make a difference.
PAWS Chicago Beach Party 2019 with Murray Peretz, Howard Tullman and Angie DeMars!
PAWS Chicago's annual Beach Party is going virtual! Mark your calendars now for Thursday, July 23, 7 pm! Expect a doggie swimsuit contest, Second City comedians, local celebs, a silent auction and so much more! Check their website here for deets coming soon!
Thanks again Gabby Road with Hannah, Fred & Justin for having me back! Loved chatting with you about Playboy; the nonprofit community; how events will look moving forward; working (or not) during a pandemic and so much more! If you missed it, please listen here!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Join Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her A Silver Lining Foundation for their 16th annual Gala on Saturday, October 3 at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place! Now, more than ever, this org needs your help in providing men and women with cost-free breast health testing. So many have lost their jobs and insurance so this year's event will be critical to support these life-saving needs. For tickets, more info, call 312.345.1322 or click here!
ULBGC champion Tiana Jackson!
Congrats Tiana Jackson! Hard work and determination pays off, just ask Union League Boys & Girls Clubs member Tiana, who has been selected to represent Illinois in the upcoming Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year Midwest Regional Competition. She makes history as ULBGC's first state winner since the competition started 73 years ago!
I've been blogging on my own since 2008 but, this month, marks my 11th anniversary as a blogger/writer for ChicagoNow! The Chicago Now blogging platform is part of the Chicago Tribune. It's the home of over 300 top Chicago bloggers. If you'd like to check it out, please click here! (Thanks for bringing me on Bill Adee!) The site is masterfully helmed by Matt Schwerha!
Big thanks to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas! Her office is waiving interest on late property tax payments for two months which will give taxpayers financial relief and more time to manage their finances. This is one politician who truly cares.
Lauren Lein with grateful frontline responders at Citadel Waterford. (Photo by Thomas P. Cavanaugh)
Kudos to designer Lauren Lein! She made and donated dozens of masks to the good folks at Citadel Waterford, a retirement home on Sheridan Road. Her good friend Julia Jacobs help facilitate this mission of mercy and now, as you can see, everyone is happier and safer! Good job Lauren!
How cool is this for Memorial Day Weekend!? Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is offering GRILL MEAL KITS! Love this idea! Check out the menu and have a great holiday weekend! Long may you grill!
It seems my blogs get longer and longer. I don't know how there can be so much news when we can't go anywhere, but I'm happy to share! In spite of it all, there are lots of happy moments, events and successes happening all around us so I hope you've enjoyed this latest edition and I hope you tell your friends!
As for us, we're off for a little road trip to Lake Geneva for Memorial Day Weekend. I've packed all of our masks and plastic gloves and have firmly decided that this virus won't keep us down for long. We're celebrating where, when and how we can, safely and respectfully. Hope you have a wonderful holiday weekend too!
Love, as always,
Candace
P.S. This darling, bird-brained video is sure to take your mind off Covid!
Plus: Chicago Auto Show's "First Look for Charity" and top crowd pleasers; Eisenopoly; "An American in Paris" for the CYSO; Dionne's Emerge! Fashion Show; DINO-mite at Jurassic Quest; The Joffrey Ballet takes "Center Stage" at the Old Post Office; Chef Art Smith celebrates 60 and the 15th anniversary of Common Threads at Chefs Takeover (JOIN US!); Chicago Artists Coalition is a "Work in Progress"; Rhonda is WINNING!; A Silver Lining Foundation's "Glitz & Glamour" fashion show is a sellout (can't wait to share all the surprises here!); Unibrowed model taking fashion world by storm; "Rain Forests of the Whirl" for Brookfield Zoo; Chicago Flower & Garden Show; Porchlight Music Theatre hosts ICONS 25th anniversary gala; This & That; Darling videos and SOOOO much more!
Chicago winters than South Florida. Fortunately, through the kindness of friends, we were able to enjoy a lengthy trip to Palm Beach and Miami Beach/Fisher Island that has
With Leslie Hindman, Chuck and new friends Alan Brainerd and Ken Gerrity at opening of Casa Gusto in Palm Beach.
restored us in ways we didn't think were possible. First off, anytime you can see palm trees, it's a calming, just-breathe experience. I relate palm trees to those "sunlight" lamps that some people use to fight off winter depression. Anyway, driving down Royal Palm Way
Mona Lisa, the famous Pig of Worth Avenue.
into Palm Beach feels like Dorothy must've felt when she discovered the Land of Oz. It's the land of milk and honey and more money than someone like me can even wrap her tiny, little head around. In 2019, PB real estate sales hit $1.2 billion, in large part, due to Chicago hedge-funder Ken Griffin's interest in buying an estate on Billionaire's Row (20 acres to be exact, on Blossom's Way). (This was beside the $238 million penthouse at 220 Central Park South in NYC, among other acquisitions). There's much to love about this small island situated on the Atlantic Ocean and
The Colony for dinner with Ken Norgan.
one of the most intriguing, for me anyway, are the charming vias dotting Worth Avenue. "Vias" are described as "walkways to quaint courtyards" with "quaint" being the keyword here. Each of the eight vias holds a treasure trove of charming shops and
Palm Beach Yacht Club with Joyce and Bill Litzler.
restaurants and was a genius stroke by its developer Addison Mizner, who created much of the avenue in the old world Mediterranean style. We had dinner one night at one of our favorite restaurants, Pizza al Fresco which is located at 14 Via Vizcaya, right next to the designer's original home which sits there in all of its 5-story glory. Its current
The Breakers with Michael Caputo.
residents, Nick (and Dee) Adams, are descendants of our 2nd president, John Adams. More than their home
Cafe des Artistes in Jupiter with Todd Burkitt, Nancy Steinwald (my sis-in-law) and Chuck.
though, they are known and recognized by their pet pig, Mona Lisa, an 8 year-old, 65-pound rare Royal Dandie, which is walked daily up and down Worth Avenue. They are a delightful couple with a house full of dogs too, besides the personable pig. The town was a little quiet this year but that wasn't a deterrent for us. We found plenty to do in the 80 degree temps filled with ocean breezes, pineapple showers and the coming and going of President Trump. Like him or not, it was still thrilling to see all of the arrangements that needed to be made, including motorcycle motorcades zooming around town, hovering helicopters, police cars
Fisher Island
and boats everywhere you looked. During our time there, the Kips Bay Decorator Show House was also in full bloom in West Palm Beach's South End neighborhood. Top decorators had transformed this 8,751 square-foot home into a magazine-worthy showplace. On opening night, more than 1,000 guests celebrated, with Mayor
With Chuck and Jan Melk on Fisher Island, Garwood Lounge.
Keith James cutting the ceremonial ribbon. The event benefited Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club and Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. Bunny Williams served as honorary show house chair with Steele Marcoux and Ellie Cullman serving as design chairs. Every room took your breath away and there was color, color
Flagler Museum (Whitehall)
everywhere! It was so refreshing to see a house that wasn't all beige but rather had oodles of personality and charm. Also spending time in Palm Beach was one of my favorite style icons, Iris Apfel (the 98 year-old dynamo). She was seemingly everywhere–at Bernardaud presenting her
Afternoon tea at the Flagler Museum, heaven!
new jewelry collection, at the Armory Art Center lecturing and on and on. Sadly, I never caught up with this whirlwind but it made me smile to think we were so close. Another highlight was discovering that our favorite NYC restaurant, Swifty's, had resurfaced as a pop-up at the Colony Hotel, 155 Hammon Avenue! A very special surprise was having two dear friends,
Kip's Bay Decorator Show House (West Palm Beach)
Justine Fedak and Michael Caputo, fly in to have dinner and a visit. We experienced Swifty's together and agreed we need to revisit this hotspot (Chuck and I did return for Valentine's Day, where the experience was equally
With Robert Caravaggi, founder of Swifty's Palm Beach and its former spot on NYC's upper east side.
delightful). Since Swifty's is a pop-up, it's only scheduled to stay open through April (here's hoping it returns next season too!). This restaurant has always been known for its intimate dining experience, from when it reigned on the Upper East side, to its new location in the Colony, and has been a magnet
With Justine Fedak, Michael Caputo and Chuck at the Colony before dinner at Swifty's.
for the social set. The night before, Candice Bergen had been a guest. The original owner, Robert Caravaggi, was there greeting guests just like the old days. I was thrilled to see that my favorite dish was still on the menu, corn fritters with Alaskan salmon roe and creme fraiche. The meatloaf dish (from designer Bill Blass' own recipe) is still on the menu too. We tried
Lots of color, pattern and personality in this year's Kips Bay Decorator Show House in West Palm Beach.
a lot of fabulous restaurants from old standbys like Buccan, Renato's, Club Colette (with dear friend/member Leslie Hindman), Bradley's (in West Palm), Cucina, Bricktop's, Taboo and others. We were delighted to have dear friend Ken Norgan pop up for dinner from his beautiful home in Miami. We dined poolside at the Colony restaurant, CPD, after he arrived on the relatively new Bright Line
Views on Fisher Island.
train, giving it rave reviews! He said they even served wine aboard! We also enjoyed some newer restaurants like Sassafras, a Southern-style restaurant in West Palm Beach that opened in November. Its executive chef John Thomas turns to local ingredients to rev up Southern classics. "Supper plates" include shrimp and Geechie Mill grits with
Mr. Chow Miami Beach
bacon, butter sauce and scallions, fried chicken, baby back ribs and more. Small plates include buttermilk biscuits, Ana's cornbread, chicken liver paté, squash blossoms with blue crab and more. You get the picture,
My godson, William Hindman.
down home Southern cooking with a modern twist. The setting was delightful too at 105 S. Narcissus Avenue. Try it if you're there! Another culinary jewel is Almond in the former Nick & Johnny's space at 207 Royal Poinciana Way in Palm Beach. The spot had only been opened for three days when we tried it and, even though the menu is limited, the dishes were delicious. Co-owner Eric Lemonidas was on hand to make sure everything was running smoothly. It was. Our longtime friend and
Poolside at the Colony.
Chuck lounging on Fisher Island.
our PB host, Leslie Hindman, invited us to the opening of a big, new (awesome) antique store, Casa Gusto, at 6316 Georgia Avenue in West Palm Beach –a stones throw from Antiques Row. Co-owners Cris Briger and Charles Peed welcomed an overflow crowd who oohed and ahhed over the many one-of-a-kind curios. I bought a very cool pair of beaded coral pieces that were modern takes on one of my favorite antiques that we bought in Venice years ago. (Check out their website here). We also
A peek into a secret garden at Authentic Provence, a delightful store at 3735 S. Dixie Hwy.
attended the 4th Vernissage preview of the Palm Beach Show over President's Day weekend. The show touted "150 domestic and international exhibitors" with "stunning collections of art,
A beautiful bedroom designed by Chicago designer Alessandra Branca at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in WPB.
antiques and jewelry" but I only saw aisle after aisle of jewelry (very short on art and antiques for sure), which was a disappointment. Don't get me wrong, the jewelry was breath-taking but not what I was hoping to see. Oh well, it was an experience and, afterwards, we dined at Bice (313 Worth Ave.) which saved the night. (Opening night of the show benefited the Cancer Alliance of Help & Hope (CAHH). Another fun spot, recommended to me by Rhonda Sanderson, was the Festival Marketplace in Pompano. It includes an antique flea market as well as loads of fun boutique stalls offering low cost finds. I could've spent a week there! We packed a lot of
Art in the air at the Palm Beach Antique & Design Center, 6910 S. Dixie Hwy.
Spring "in bloom" at the Royal Poinciana Plaza.
excursions into our stay and got to visit the Flagler Museum, aka the gilded-age mansion Whitehall, home of Henry Flagler, founder of Standard Oil and a key figure in the development of the Atlantic coast of Florida. He had decorated every
Cafe L'Europe, 331 S. County Rd, PB, remains the most romantic restaurant on the island.
square inch of the 100,000-square-foot space and, even though he hated to travel, the collections were put together to make it seem like he had. We also toured the famed historic Cottages of Lake Worth.
Addison Mizner's 5 story house at 337-339 Worth Avenue across from the Everglades Club.
(that I discovered from a book by the same name by authors Dean Sherwin, Janice Snearer and Taylor Jones) Many of the cottages are gaily painted, 1,000-sq-feet or less, 25' wide and were created from a kit purchased from the Sears & Roebuck catalog! Lol! Granted, not every house is quaint and charming but a map, usefully provided
A peek inside the Mizner house. Note the pig bed, back right, for Mona Lisa.
with a book purchase, leads you through the top 16 homes that are tour-worthy. Our next stop took us to beautiful Fisher Island, a small barrier island off the coast of Miami Beach that was once home to the Vanderbilts. Only accessible by ferry, the 0.343 square-mile island is an oasis of beautifully landscaped grounds, roaming peacocks, big boats and exquisite homes. Notable residents have included Oprah
Chuck waves goodbye from Henry Flagler's Railcar 91 on the grounds of the Flagler Museum.
Winfrey, Boris Becker, Andre Agassi and our host Jan Melk. During our time there, we drove into Miami Beach for dinner at Mr. Chow (2201 Collins) which was delicious but, in my opinion, needed a dress code. The spot was so elegant but seeing guests in baseball caps and shorts took something away from the experience. Sadly, our visit ended on a note of tragedy, when a car carrying two residents on one of the ferries went into the water on Tuesday, February 18. They perished. The next day when we left, we were directed to the very same spot those poor souls had been on. You can bet we had every brake on in the car with the windows down. I would've been wearing a full scuba suit too if I'd had one. Treasure every moment, you never know when your time will come, and create as many memories as you can. We're trying.
The 112th edition of the Chicago Auto Show officially wrapped on Monday, Feb. 17, concluding a successful 10-day run of the nation’s largest auto show. Opening night, First Look for Charity, raised more than $2.8 million for 18 vital Chicago organizations! And, despite challenges with traffic and parking as a result of NBA all-star activities, attendance was strong and proof of Chicago’s reputation as a robust consumer show. Chicago Auto Show chairman Tony Guido said, “According to Foresight Research, more than 60
Beautiful Judy Hsu, ABC-7, hosts the CAS program.
percent of Chicago Auto Show attendees are 12-month vehicle intenders, so we know that people come to shop. With four indoor test tracks and three outdoor ride-and-drive experiences, there were ample opportunities for attendees to experience, first hand,
Over $2.8 million was raised for 18 local charites!
the features of today’s brand-new cars, trucks and SUVs.” The longest-running auto show in North America once again featured more than 1 million square-feet of top-tier exhibits by global automakers, more than 20 brand-new vehicle introductions that made their worldwide or national debut, a host of interactive exhibits and test drive opportunities. Notable new vehicles that attracted a lot of oohs and ahhs included the Cadillac CT5-V, Chevrolet C8 Corvette, Chevrolet
The show featured so many fun interactive exhibits, sort of like a mini Disney!
Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Mustang Mach-E, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, Land Rover Defender, Lexus LC,
Friend/show-goer Geoff Burton relaxed with a friend in the Pooch Cafe.
Mazda CX-30, Porsche Taycan and Toyota RAV4 Prime. In addition, concept cars were prominently on display and included the Acura Type S, Dodge Challenger Drag PAK, GMC Sierra All Mountain, Kia HabaNiro, Toyota Supra GR Hyperspeed Edition and Toyota LQ. Attendees had the opportunity to go for a ride at one of Chicago’s four indoor test tracks. Camp Jeep, which celebrated its 16th anniversary at the show, featured its popular indoor track where
Ford's concept car featured a Chicago Bears motif.
guests could ride inside the Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, Renegade and Wrangler and take on the 18-foot hill at a 35-degree angle. Toyota brought back its popular track that featured vehicles ranging from the Camry to the RAV4. Ram Truck Territory also returned with an indoor test track that featured an interactive ride experience with a 28,000-square-foot in-truck adventure to demonstrate the power and capabilities of the Ram Truck lineup. Volkswagen featured an all-new test track to show off its Atlas Cross Sport in a desert
'Vette in my favorite color! Vroom! Vroom!
terrain. Nearly 1,000 cars, trucks and SUVs were on display, and consumers cast their votes for their favorite in five different categories in the 15th annual Best of Show balloting. The vehicles that rose to the top included: Best All-New Production: 2020 Chevrolet Corvette; Best Concept Vehicle: Acura Type S; Best Green Vehicle: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E; Best Exhibit: Jeep; Vehicle I'd most like to have in my driveway: 2020 Chevrolet Corvette. Planning is already underway for the 2021 show. (For all details, click here!)
I don't know if you've been following along on my Playboy journey but it has been a helluva ride! I recently shot a 12-page
With Hosea Sanders, ABC-7!
cover pictorial for the magazine's winter equality issue with four other Playmates (photos on Insta here) and the press has been unbelievable: Forbes, Inside Edition, twice in the Daily Mail , The JAM TV show, Huffington Post, and more (did Fox this week!). I so appreciated the incredible segments produced by friends Hosea Sanders (see WLS-TV 7 segment
With Sylvia Perez, Fox 32 Chicago!
here) and Sylvia Perez (see Fox 32 Chicago segment here)….these really blew me away. I think in this era of the #METOO movement, women are feeling empowered like never before. I've received so many congratulatory messages, MOST from WOMEN! I'm happy to be sort of a poster "child" for my generation. It's proof positive that life doesn't end at 30, even in the world of Playboy, my family for going on 40 years now! Here's to aging like fine wine….it's the best revenge. 🙂
The Associate Board of the Harold E. Eisenberg Foundation hosted its 11th annual EISENOPOLY at Revel Fulton Market on January 31. The event raised over $215,000 for gastrointestinal cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie
Abby Rice, Zoe Spector, Sabrina Kelch and Hanna Oimoen.
Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern University. The funding supports the GI Cancer Tissue Bank and the $1.5 million dollar commitment to the Harold E. Eisenberg GI Cancer OncoSET program, an initiative to deliver personalized, effective cancer treatments to patients who
Alex Sabbag (center) with Ashley and Alex.
currently have very limited options. To date, the organization has invested more than $3 million in critical gastrointestinal cancer research and patient
It's always a packed house for this fun event!
care programs. The event drew a crowd of over 550 who faced off in speed rounds of the monopoly-themed board game. Live music by Gold Coast All Stars, dancing and food served by some of Chicago’s most notable chefs made the night one to remember. Participating
Hanna Oimoen, Katie Wales, Peter and Amy Eisenberg with their two daughters Emma and Julia Eisenberg.
restaurants included Cafe Robey, Capital Grille, Gene & Georgetti, Orso’s, Perilla, Pollo Campero, Taco Lulu, Wow Bao and more. A pop-up station of Koval Distillery complemented the bar and a decadent
Roi and Lesley Kiferbaum with Jennifer Scher and Michael Jacobson.
dessert station featured cupcakes from Sweet Mandy B’s as well as Eli’s Cheesecake bites. After game-play, guests enjoyed late night eats courtesy of Bar Siena pizza. To complement the lively Eisenopoly game-play, guests were invited to try their luck in the Cash Cube. The top three players that left with the most money were given the opportunity to select from the top three grand prizes, which included a $4,000 diamond ring, signed jersey by former Chicago Bear Dick Butkus and the brand new Apple AirPods Pro earbuds. What’s more, one lucky guest walked away with a diamond cocktail ring valued at $5,000 courtesy of Mon Ami Jewelry at the “Bubbles and Bling” station.
Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras’ (CYSO) gala, “An American in Paris,” was held at the Four Seasons on Saturday, February 8. The event raised more than $480,000 to support world-class music education for
Note of Excellence honoree and DCASE Commissioner, Mark Kelly.
young musicians throughout the Chicago region and included dinner, a live auction and a grand performance by CYSO’s Symphony Orchestra, a 130-member ensemble made up of some of the most
Co-chairs Brittany Viola and Kelly Howe.
talented and dedicated young musicians from across the Midwest. This year, CYSO presented Mark Kelly, Commissioner of the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and
Jerome and Daisy Fifer with CYSO student Brandon Cheng.
longtime supporter of youth education and the arts, with the “Note of Excellence” award. Lourdes Duarte, WGN anchor and longtime CYSO supporter,
Jazz Orchestra Isabella Isherwood on vocals.
emceed the evening. As the CYSO's signature fundraiser, the gala helps Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras continue educating and inspiring more than 8,500 of Chicago’s next generation of leaders. Last year’s gala “Chicago Soul” was another success, raising more than $415,000 for CYSO’s
Emcee and WGN Anchor Lourdes Duarte.
music training, education, and community engagement programs. Festivities for the evening included a reception with performances by members of
CYSO Steel Orchestra.
CYSO’s Jazz Orchestra, Kaiso Steel Orchestra and Preparatory Strings. During dinner, music director Allen Tinkham led CYSO’s Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Gershwin’s classic “An American in Paris.” Guests participated in a spirited live auction featuring a week-long vacation home in the south of France and a stay at the Rosewood in the Bahamas, among other packages. The event was co-chaired by Kelly and Dennis Howe
A standing ovation following the thrilling performance!
and Brittany Viola and Justin Bernbrock. Kelly Howe, a parent to two young CYSO musicians, said, “This year’s gala was our biggest success yet. As a CYSO parent, I’m so proud of what we accomplished. It was
an honor to chair an event for a program that brings such positivity to the youth of Chicago." Since 1946, CYSO has provided high-caliber music education
Fabulous CYSO conductor Allen Tinkham.
through orchestral programs and performance opportunities. Their nine on-site ensembles include full, string, jazz, and steelpan orchestras and chamber music, serving over 650 on-site students. The nonprofit organization also reaches thousands of young Chicagoans through community engagement programs that offer unique music opportunities and experiences to Chicago youth and families. (Photos by Kyle Flubacker)
Fern Mallis, the Godmother of Fashion, receives the Innovator Award from event creator Dionne Williams at the NYC Emerge! Fashion Show.
I'm just so proud of my friend Dionne Williams, D. Williams Public Relations Group, on hosting/creating her 9th Emerge! Fashion Show on February 11, during
Colorful look by designer Nyonuvi.
New York Fashion Week. The leading emerging designer runway show, established to provide a platform for designers, came back in full force with a collaboration with London-based organization Wearable Art Collective, which curated a collective of dynamic designers from Africa who debuted their designs in the United States for the first time. EMERGE!A Fashion Runway Show is a catalyst for providing a platform and a strong backdrop for emerging designers. The Wearable Art Collective’s mission is to promote,
Elegant design by Van Vorsh.
strengthen and empower African designers and artisans. It strives to serve as good global citizens and provide a
Yetroselane Couture!
foundation to African designers, empowering them, giving exposure and resources.“I am truly delighted that the Wearable Art Collective designers were highlighted during the Emerge! Fashion show,” says Lola Owolabi, curator for Wearable Art Collective. “The designers worked very hard on their collections and we are asking for major support of them.” Each season, EMERGE! presents the coveted Fashion Innovator Award. Past honorees have included Audrey Smaltz, president of the Ground Crew (presented to her by Harriette Cole); Constance C.R. White, Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine (presented to
Designer Catou brought the drama.
her by Tracy Reese); Andre Leon Talley, contributing editor of Vogue (presented to him by Diane Von Furstenberg); fashion icon Mikki Taylor (presented to her by style expert Philip Bloch) and legendary model Patricia Cleveland
My favorite model? Cameron Williams. 🙂
(presented to her by legendary fashion designer, Stephen Burrows). This season the Fashion Innovator award honoree was Fern Mallis, hailed as the award-winning creator of New York Fashion Week. The Award was presented to her by designer Bibu Mohapatra. The designers showcased during Emerge! Fashion show this year included VanVorsh (bespoke women’s wear); Jesu Segun (hand-crafted luxury shoes); Clarence Clottey (menswear); Muggs Jewellery (Men & Women jewelry); Senyo Foli (Men’s Wear); Yetroselane Couture (Women’s Wear); Nyonuvi (women’s wear); Wearable Art Collective (women’s accessories) – special guest designer: Catou Designs (men & women’s wear).
If you're a geek about dinosaurs like me, then you won't want to miss Jurassic Quest, the largest, most realistic exhibition of these prehistoric creatures in North America. The exhibit comes to Navy Pier March 6-8 and will feature 100, true to life-sized dinosaur replicas from the very small, to the gigantic, to those found under the
Megalodon!
sea. Jurassic Quest worked in collaboration with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur was painstakingly replicated in every detail. Guests will have the chance to learn all things paleontology at the excavation station, where they can dig up fossils and by visiting the dinosaur museum to see real dinosaur fossils dating back over 60 million years, including bones that originated in North America. There will be countless activities throughout the event that suit all ages, including a host of dinosaur themed rides, baby dinosaur shows, walking dinosaur shows, dinosaur themed bounce houses, science stations and a dino cinema! There will also be face painting, crafts and coloring stations and much more. Whether you are big or small, young or old, guests of Jurassic Quest have a dino-mite time! For tickets/more info, click here!
The Joffrey Ballet will host its annual Spring Gala on Friday, April 17 at the Old Post Office. A pre-gala performance will take place at the Auditorium Theatre before the festivities (dinner, dancing and more) begin. Co-chaired by April Daley and Miguel Blanco, Greg Jenkins, DL and Jazelle Morriss, Eric Schieber and
Nick Cave and Bob Faust are the honorees for the Chicago Artists Coalition's "Work in Progress" event on April 2.
Tony Priore and Dr. Lauren Streicher and Jason Brett, the event is themed "Center Stage" and the attire is "festive and fabulous"! For tickets, more info, click here!
The Chicago Artists Coalition will celebrate 45 years at its annual benefit, "Work in Progress," on Thursday, April 2 at the Knoll Showroom at 811 W. Fulton Market. The 2020 honorees will be Nick Cave and Bob Faust with special recognition given to Jeff Shapack. The event will be co-chaired by Maggie and Michael Meiners and Gary Metzner and Scott Johnson. For tickets/more info, click here!
Excited to wear this Mark Roscoe design in the Glitz & Glamour fashion show to benefit A Silver Lining Foundation (Photo by Ernest Collins).
I'm so excited about the upcoming Glitz & Glamour fashion show benefiting A Silver Lining Foundation which will be held at the Peninsula on March 4. Sadly, for those without tickets, the event is a sellout, but watch for blog coverage following….it will be an EPIC event to help provide free breast health testing and support for those in need. (To learn more about this worthy nonprofit, please click here!) (I'm thrilled to be wearing a design by the much loved and very talented Mark Roscoe!)
The Women's Board and the Board of Trustees of the Chicago Zoological Society will host "Rain Forests of the Whirl," to support the Brookfield Zoo on Saturday, April 25. The black tie event will be presented by A. Marek Fine Jewelry and held at the Sheraton Grand Chicago (the first time the gala is held off zoo grounds). For tickets, more info, click here!
Arlen and Elaine Cohen Rubin will be honored at Porchlight Theatre's ICONS Gala on March 23.
Porchlight Music Theatre will honor Arlen D. Rubin and Elaine Cohen Rubin with Luminary Awards at its 25th anniversary ICONS Gala on Monday, March 23 at the Ritz-Carlton. They will join legendary entertainer/actor Joel Grey, who will also be receiving an ICON Award that evening. The event will be co-chaired by Rick and Deann Bayless and Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra! For tickets/ more info, click here!
Common Threads will be returning to Chicago to celebrate its 15th anniversary of helping under-resourced children and families learn about cooking and
Participating chefs, to date.
nutrition with an exciting Chefs Takeover! Join us on Monday, March 16 at Zhou B Art Center (1029 W. 35th Street) when dozens of top chef from across the country will be on hand sharing their most delicious dishes! Participating chefs will include Stephanie Izard, Tony Priolo, Giuseppe
STELLAR Host Committee–THANK YOU!
Tentori, Robert Garvey, Govind Armstrong, Malika Ameen, Jimmy Bannos Jr. & Sr., Kevin Hickey, Gale Gand, Paul Kahan, Jaime Laurita, Diana Moles, Jose Sosa and so many more! There will be a pop-up performance by The Happiness Club Kids and what party would be complete without a custom, congratulatory Eli's Cheesecake?!? Thanks to our stellar host committee (see list on left) for helping make this an event attendees won't soon forget! Don't miss this joyful night that will also celebrate Chef Art Smith's 60th birthday! Click here for tickets and all the deets!
"The Queen of Franchise PR"! Congrats to my friend Rhonda Sanderson on her recent cover feature in the Franchise Journal. Link to story, on page 28, here. (Sketch by Rosemary Fanti) #WINNING
The Chicago Flower And Garden Show returns with a "Focus on Flowers" beginning Wednesday, March 18 through Sunday, March 22 at Navy Pier's Festival Hall. Experience an early spring through 20+ gardens and enjoy seminars, a butterfly experience, workshops, tablescapes and more. And, for the first time at the show, the American Quilter's Society will showcase 75 beautiful quilts! Ahhhh, I can smell the flowers! (For tickets/more info, click here!
Hot on the fashion scene, a new model is challenging the norms of beauty. Sophia Hadjipanteli, 22, was born and raised in Cyprus and is responsible for leading the charge in the "unibrow movement." She says she lets her jet black unibrow grow freely out of a sense of pride for her culture. Now ya know…..Yes? No? Maybe?
I think I can see an end in sight for our Chicago winter….there seems to be more sunnier days and the birds around our apartment are becoming more active–all positive signs. HOWEVER, until the weather truly warms up (for longer than a day or two), THE CHRISTMAS TREE STAYS!
PAWS' PARTY ON THE BEACH; SERVICE CLUB'S RECORD-BREAKER; 1ST HAUTE DOG CHICAGO; A VERY PRIVATE PARTY; CHICAGO HOT DOG FEST; CHARLIE TROTTER DAY; PERRY FARRELL'S HOT LOLLA AFTER-PARTY; 900 SHOPS' "I AM CHICAGO" (WHO ARE THEY?); CHICAGO CUTS' CELEBS; LSCRF'S PLAY FOR THE CURE; AN EVENING TO IMAGINE GALA; THE JOFFREY'S "ROMEO & JULIET" LUNCHEON; AN EVENING ON ASTOR; THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT– VELUXE; PETE'S DRAGON REVIEW; CHASE RIDES OFF INTO THE SUNSET; HUGH HEFNER'S NEW DOC; COMMON THREAD'S COOK-OFF; LOTSA VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
Co-chairs Doug McClure, Susan Hedlund and Alex Ross
Over a thousand of Chicago’s philanthropists and social leaders (and all-around cuties) gathered at Shedd Aquarium for one of the city’s premier summer fundraising fêtes, BLU, on August 5. As many of you know, I attend a LOT of fabulous events throughout the year,
Guests dance to DJ KJ on Lakeside Terrace
but this one stands out because of its darling/effective Auxiliary Board and the crowd that BLU attracts–omg, if I were single and a young professional, this is THE party I
Tim Huizenga and Jessica Baxter
would want to attend! So many beautiful (philanthropic) people in one scenic spot! This year marked the 10th anniversary of BLU that broke records raising more than $450,000 to support Shedd’s rescue and rehabilitation, conservation, and education initiatives. Hosted
Adiat Baker and Nicole Townsend
by its Auxiliary Board and co-chairs Susan Hedlund, Doug McClure and Alex Ross, guests enjoyed a night filled with music, exciting animal encounters, dazzling skyline views, and tastings from many of Chicago’s best restaurants, all to support Shedd’s mission of connecting people to the living world. VIP guests started off the night with a stroll along the North
A guest snags a selfie with volunteer diver Brian Siegel
Terrace, temporarily dubbed "Luna Terrace" in honor of its rescued sea otter, where they enjoyed performances by John Vincent and The Voice contestant, Madi Davis. (Davis sang the song that snagged her The Voice audition. Hear it here!) Signage warned guests against diving red-winged blackbirds trying to
Shedd's Auxiliary Board
protect their nests. I was struck by the fact that animal conservation began right at the front door! LOL! Revelry and toasts to the belugas and dolphins could be heard throughout the aquarium that houses over 32,000 animals making it
Auxiliary Board members Alex Lozier and Danielle Benjoya
one of Chicago’s top cultural attractions. Partygoers were drawn to the Caribbean Reef where they sampled delicious tastings, petted sturgeons and received temporary "tattoos" while taking in the tunes of jazz guitarist Guy King. Guests marveled at the 360-degree view of an underwater reef community as rays and
With green tree python Ivy
Nickle, an endangered sea turtle who was rescued off the coast of Florida after a run in with a boat propeller, glided by. Taking a walk on the wild side, attendees headed downstairs to a Philippines inspired coral reef. The special access to Shedd’s award-winning Wild Reef
Former "The Voice" contestant Madi Davis donates her performance to Shedd BLU
exhibit provided a diver’s-view of a diverse marine metropolis that is home to more sharks, stingrays and live coral than any other exhibit at Shedd. Partygoers enjoyed up-close and personal encounters with an Argentine black and white tegu, an endangered Blanding's turtle and a brilliantly colored green tree python. BLU waters then came to life during a special
A parade of penguins!
30 minute dive show that featured beluga whales, dolphins, a sea lion and more! Guests enjoyed an exclusive aquatic presentation in the Abbott Oceanarium emceed by Ken Ramirez, Shedd’s animal care & training advisor. Guests rose to their feet for a surprise performance from the Chicago Blackhawks' very own Jim Cornelison singing the national anthem.
Cute BLU guests
Afterwards the audience was surprised and delighted by a parade of Magellanic penguins and marine mammals. During the performance, guests also participated in a record-breaking paddle raise,
With designer Borris Powell
raising more than $45,000 to support Shedd’s conservation mission, including animal rescue and rehabilitation programs. Throughout the night, guests explored the Waters of the World galleries and special exhibits and sampled tastings from more than
A BLU guest gets "tattooed"!
20 of Chicago’s premier restaurants, including El Hefe, Kinmont, McCormick & Schmick’s, Hampton Social, Shaw's Crab House, Aurelio's, Beatrix, Bombay Wraps, The Radler and Sunda. While
Shedd's historic gallery space and Caribbean Reef exhibit dressed in BLU
noshing and sipping spirits, guests used their smartphones to enter into a virtual bidding war for a chance to go home with an array of silent auction items, including a beluga encounter experience and special behind- the-scenes meet-and-greet with Nickle, the rescued green sea turtle. After the sun set on Lake Michigan, partygoers stepped outside for
Chuck has special check-in privileges! LOL!
a dance party on the Sick Family Lakefront Terrace, where fireworks over Navy Pier lit up the night sky. DJ KJ drew partygoers onto the dance floor against a backdrop of stunning skyline views. The evening ended on a sweet note over delectable treats including Insomnia Cookies and More Cupcakes! Congrats to all for this exciting, informative "party with a purpose for the porpoise," as Shedd president/CEO Bridget Coughlin
The Service Club of Chicago hosted its annual "Day on the Terrace" Fashion Show & Luncheon at the Peninsula on August 8. The event was a sell-out with over 350 supporters and included a tribute to its founder Hazel Barr as well as a first look for fall with fashions from some of the city's top retailers. It was a perfect summer day for cocktails
Honoree/event founder Hazel Barr (wearing St. John) with her cute grandsons
on the Terrace before the show began. A buzz of anticipation filled the venue with models hurrying to and fro, getting their makeup (by NARS promotional artists) and hair done (by the Marianne
Finale models Sherry Lea Holson, Sharyl Mackey, Mary Lasky and Darby Hills with their handsome Marine escorts
Strokirk Salon) and making last minute adjustments to their beautiful outfits. Participating retailers included Anne Fontaine, alice + olivia, CH Carolina Herrera, St. John, L.K. Bennett, Max Mara and Maximilian Furs from Bloomingdale's, Tod's, Tom James, Trunk Club and more. A highlight of the afternoon was a patriotic appearance by the United
With Linda Yu, Ji Suk Yi and Sylvia Perez
States Marines who escorted models bedecked in eveningwear from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue for the finale. Social doyenne "the Hazel" was glowing with pride as her two handsome grandsons, Justin and Alexander Smith, escorted her down the runway
to "That's Entertainment." The crowd rose to their feet to salute this hard-working longtime member of the Service Club as she received a huge bouquet of roses. Before her walk, a video montage (video-scaping by Myra Reilly and Tracey Tarantino, ZZAZZ Productions, who also choreographed the runway show) began with vintage photos from her
DOT's darling "bad boys" Izzy Idonije, Dan Uslan, Randy Hano, David Zivan and Chef Tony Priolo
first events, then called "Day in the Country" in Hinsdale. (To hear/see Hazel's speech, click here!) Runway models included Izzy Idonije, Dan Ponce, Jim Rose, Melissa Forman, Ji Suk Yi, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Alicia Roman, Ryan Baker, Rob Johnson, Chef Tony Priolo, David Zivan, Randy Hano, Dan Uslan, J.P. Anderson and
With co-chairs Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou and the Peninsula's Greg Hyder
many more. Presenting event sponsor was Marguerite Hark along with sponsors McGrathLexus, Cheri Lawrence, Sherry Lea Holson, Shelley Gorson & Alan Salpeter Family Fund and Anida Johnson "Cookie' Cohen. The event raised over $90,000 to help the organization to
Mamie Walton followed by Melissa Forman and Elizabeth Bertucci
continue to support its grant program supporting various non-profits throughout Chicagoland that specialize in women's and children's welfare programs, arts and education. (Photos by John Reilly Photography and me!)
Jim and Bonnie Spurlock with Howard and Judy Tullman
PAWS Chicago, the city's largest No Kill humane organization hosted its 14th Annual Beach Party, presented by Burrows Moving Co. and Meta Modern Health, on July 14 at Castaways Boathouse on North Avenue Beach. This year's sold out event
Kim Gleeson (with Spencer), Paula Fasseas and Cheri Lawrence
was the most successful Beach Party to-date, and had more than 450 people and 100 dogs in attendance! The summer gala raised awareness about the life-saving work PAWS Chicago is doing to end the killing of homeless dogs and cats. Emceed by longtime supporter Lisa Dent, the occasion
was co-chaired by Andrew Tobin and Heather and
Wayne Gailis, Joanna Mallers (dog-Luke), Rita Moore.
Mark Yeager. The Pet Host Committee of the event was comprised of 79 dogs and cats, including Gracie the Miniature Schnauzer, Leo Canning, Mookie Styles, and Ichabod & Butch Duffens,
Fox 32's Jenny Milkowski, NBC's Marley Kayden, KISS FM's Fred and Jared Hoffa
whose sponsorships helped underwrite the expenses. Lucky pups in attendance indulged in a doggie buffet, sampled doggie ice cream and were treated to pampered treatments at
Murray Peretz with pup Franzen, Patrick Parkey, Anne Marie Peretz with pup Chabon
the Paradise 4 Paws “Dog Spa”, complete with animal paw-di-cures and splash pools. Some even danced the night away on the deck of Castaways. Their human counterparts enjoyed a beachfront dinner buffet, photo booth, caricature artist, and a one-of-a-kind live and
Nancy and Michael Timmers
silent auction. Six homeless dogs were available for adoption that evening, including Stewart, a 2-month-old Bully Breed. Stewart was in rough shape when he first arrived at PAWS Chicago at
Emcee Lisa Dent with homeless pup
just 3-weeks old. The runt of his litter, Stewart was suffering from pneumonia, a weak immune system, and mange. He was immediately placed into an experienced medical foster home where he was given
Co-chairs Mark and Heather Yeager and Andrew Tobin
oxygen treatments and was bottle-fed until he learned how to eat on his own. Pecan, a 9-year-old senior Fox Terrier Mix, was lucky to find a home with Beach Party sponsors Howard and Judy Tullman. Awwwww, love all
Canine Companions for Independence
around to this life-saving organization for homeless pets!
Yippee! Rooney and I are thrilled to be included in the first Haute Dog Chicago fashion show fundraiser at The
Rooney as "Little Edie"
Peninsula Chicago on Thursday, September 8, from 6-9 pm. The evening will benefit Canine Companions for Independence, a national non-profit organization that provides highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to children, adults and veterans with disabilities free of charge. For tickets and more info, click here and see video below: http://bit.ly/2aVYcW2
David Deyhle, VP of external relations at Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum welcomed record-breaking attendance at the fourth annual Chicago Hot Dog Fest recently. More than 35,000 visitors made it to the three-day family-friendly celebration that took place August 5 – 7. Attendance was up 40 % from 2015 which saw 25,000 visitors. “Chicagoan’s love for the Chicago hot dog and all of the stories around this beloved favorite continue to amaze us,” said David Deyhle, VP of External Relations at the Chicago History Museum. “With this increase in Fest attendance this year, the Chicago Hot Dog Fest is growing to be one of Chicago’s most treasured festivals.” The Chicago Hot Dog Fest launched in 2013 as a way to raise awareness about the Chicago History Museum and celebrate Chicago’s favorite food – the hot dog. The classic Chicago-style hot dog, made exclusively with Vienna Beef, was the star of the festival. Visitors enjoyed hot dogs from Byron’s Hot Dogs, Frannie’s Beef and Catering, Wiener Take All, Flashy Hot Dogs, Fatso’s Last Stand and many more. The Fest welcomed music headliners American English, JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound and Catfight. Families and kids enjoyed craft activities, rides, face-painting and kid-friendly musical entertainment. Hot dog historians took to the Speaker Stage to weigh in on everything from the fiercely debated topic “Is a Hot Dog a Sandwich?” to Chicago’s
Fireworks rivaled Navy Pier's!
most notorious condiment – ketchup. Ewwwww!
It was our first visit to one of the hottest summer parties of the year in Lake Geneva recently. It was very private, no social media allowed, but I want to share
A crowd of over 700 enjoying an ABBA inspired concert
some of the fun here with you. When we first boarded the trolleys, I heard some dimwit remark, "Boy, someone really took this 70's theme to heart." Granted, Chuck and I had donned requisite 70s inspired
Dressed for a '70s theme! LOL!
shades with oversized pimp-style necklaces and I also included my Playboy Bunny ears from 1976–but I wouldn't let one thoughtless remark spoil our fun! I also happen to think if a host asks you to pay heed to the theme of the evening, that it is very rude to ignore the plea. On a
I've never seen one, a Rolls-Royce encrusted in Swarovski crystals!
brighter note, the grounds rivaled Versailles and when the darling host and hostess made their entrance in a Rolls-Royce completely encrusted with Swarovski
A guest tours a "tiny house" fit for a fairy princess
crystals, I knew we were at one very special event! The 70s theme featured an ABBA-inspired band and other toe-tapping performances but our favorite part of the evening was the speech by the host who shared his amazing success story, which started from
A great party on the lake
very humble beginnings to the philanthropic and business success he enjoys today. Over 700 by-invite-only guests roamed the magnificent, perfectly manicured grounds, peering in tiny houses fit for fairy princesses and enjoying tables heaped with delicious food. A fireworks display put Navy Pier's to shame….It was a night filled with fantasy and magic. And a very special thank
Chef Trotter at 2012 James Beard Awards
you to our hosts–you know who you are. 🙂
The Trotter Project's official airline partner United, along with restaurants across the United States, will celebrate the legacy of super-chef Charlie Trotter on "Charlie
Charlie and Rochelle Trotter
Trotter Day," Wednesday. Aug. 17 – Sunday, Aug. 21 to raise funds for the Pillars of ExcellenceMentor Program – a Trotter Project youth mentorship program which seeks to educate, train, and offer opportunities for the next generation of aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals. The airline will donate
Late Chef Charlie Trotter in his spotless kitchen
$1 for every Choice Menu Bistro on Board item sold on all domestic flights during the Charlie Trotter Day celebration. Several Trotter Project supporting chefs worked in collaboration with United to create and inspire the airline’s Bistro on Board
Chef Charlie Trotter
menu. In addition to the airline partnership, several leading restaurants across the country, including Chicago’s BellyQ, GT Fish & Oyster, The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago, Bâtard in New York City, The French Laundry, Parallel 37 at The Ritz Carlton in San Francisco, Per Se and many more will offer Trotter-inspired dishes and menus. This special weekend recognizes Chef Trotter’s innovative approach to cuisine by featuring many culinary creations from his legendary cookbooks. You will forever be missed Charlie!
Perry Farrell and wife Etty Lau Farrell
Perry Farrell celebrated the 25th anniversary of Lollapalooza with 500 of his closest friends at the official after-party at the Motorola offices, with 101-WKQX and Verizon, located on the roof of the Merchandise Mart (who knew there was a party space there?!) called The Moto Rooftop. Danny Masterson (DJ Momjeans) spun hot mixes while Perry emceed the event that was aired
Danny's band Grandpa vs. Prowler: Nader Kheirbek, Danny Masterson, Chris Wadhams and Jeff Kite
live. Perry was seen snuggling up to his wife Etty Lau Farrell and popping bottles of champagne behind the DJ booth while the crowd went wild. LOLLA was conceived and created in 1991 by Jane's Addiction singer Farrell as a farewell tour for his band. The event ran annually until 1997 and was revived in 2003. From its inception through 1997 and its revival in 2003, the festival toured North America. In
Vinnie Ferra (Halsey) and friends
2004, the festival organizers decided to expand the dates to two days per city, but poor ticket sales forced the 2004 tour to be canceled. In 2005, Farrell and the William Morris Agency partnered with Austin, Texas–based company Capital Sports Entertainment (now C3 Presents) and retooled
Matt Thomas from The Joy Formidable (center)
it into its current format as a weekend destination festival in Grant Park. All four days of this year's festival were sold out (400,000 tickets in all) before a line-up was even announced! Notable
Jonathan Radtke (Filter/Kill Hannah/Grandpa vs. Prowler) and Chris Null (Dead Sara/Grandpa vs. Prowler)
anniversary partygoers included Matt Thomas (from the Joy Formidable), Vinnie Ferra (Halsey), Masterson, Nader Kheirbek (The Strokes, 5 O'clock Heroes), Chris Wadhams (Animotion), Jeff Kite (Julian Cassablancas and the Voidz), Michael Pena, Jonathan Radtke (Filter, Kill Hannah) and Chris Null (Dead Sara). Happy anniversary LOLLA!
900 Shops' "I Am Chicago" partygoers
900 North Michigan Shops will showcase the passion and innovation behind the city of Chicago with its new 2016/2018 ad campaign, “I AM CHICAGO”. This campaign will symbolize the
"I Am Chicago" participant Justin Jacobson and cute friends
relationship between 900 Shops with fourteen locals who have a true affinity for the city. “I AM CHICAGO” is 900 North Michigan Shops’ first ad campaign to spotlight local individuals and tell their unique story. The fourteen finalists were selected
900 Shops' "I Am Chicago" boat party
from nearly 400 hopefuls who attended a casting call at 900 Shops on April 5. Contestants were judged based on many factors including how they were making a difference in their community. This summer/fall, 900 Shops is spotlighting Valerie Groth and Dominick and Donna Mondi. Other finalists include Michelle Harris, Kimberly Evetts, Trevor Heffernan, Carrie Meghie, Michael Tyler, Katrina Visnevska, Bella and her dad Charlie Roy, Saudi Davis, April Strong and Justin
At Chicago Cut Steakhouse celebrating friends' birthdays with (top row) Mary Pat Burns, Greg Hyder, Dr. Stacie McClane and Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, (front row) Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Sheryl Dyer
Jacobson. These fun pics are from the launch party. Congrats to all!
Chicago Cut Steakhouse has become a magnet for visiting celebs! Recently, it hosted first ballot Hall of Famer and former Yankees short stop Derek Jeter. I happened to be there with
Shark Tank's Lori Greiner at The Local
darling friends celebrating the birthdays of Greg Hyder, Jean Antoniou, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Mary Pat Burns and he was a sight for sore eyes–so handsome! He and his friends (from Goldman Sachs) enjoyed lobster, escargot, steaks, shrimp cocktails and Golden Eye Pinot Noir. Wanna know what we had? LOL! Recently, Shark Tank's Lori Greiner dined on the terrace at The
Co-chairs Bari Anixter Mlodinoff and Melissa Mazzetta
Local and Nick Jonas enjoyed the fare at Ocean Cut! So now you know!
Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation (LSCRF) hosted its 25th Annual Play for the Cure Golf Outing at the North Shore Country Club with a turnout of 84 golfers. The day began with a beautiful buffet lunch on the
Chair Julie Lampert, co-chair Bari Anixter Mlodinoff, co-chair Melissa Mazzetta and vice-chair Bradley Jarol.
country club’s lawn followed by a 1 p.m. tee-off. After an exciting 18-holes of “putting for pink,” festivities concluded with an evening reception of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The Golf Outing
Play for the Cure founding member Charlene Lieber and Stephanie Lieber
was co-chaired by Melissa Mazzetta and Bari Anixter Mlodinoff with presenting sponsor, the Mazzetta Company. The event raised over $150,000 to help fund research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center in novel treatments, education and early detection of breast cancer.
Gala chair Claudia Temple leads guest Mary Galvin and WB members Tiffany Erickson and Gina Gooden to lunch
Some of Chicagoland’s top philanthropists gathered at Westmoreland Country Club in Wilmette for a luncheon to celebrate the launch of Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago’s annual “An Evening to Imagine” Gala, which will be held on October 8, to commemorate the culmination of the Museum’s 30th anniversary year. Museum president/CEO Sheridan Turner welcomed many
(L to R) WB members Sarah Alshouse and Maxie Clarke; gala chairs Claudia Temple (Museum trustee), Deirdre Franklin and Wendy Baker; WB members Tiffany Erickson and Kerri Schoonyoung
notable guests, including Women’s Board members Mary Galvin and Museum trustee Dawn Meiners, to the kickoff reception. Gala chairs Claudia Temple, a
WB members and gala chairs Wendy Baker and Deirdre Franklin
member of the Museum’s Board of Trustees, and WB members Wendy Baker and Deirdre Franklin invited guests to the October 8 gala which will be held at Venue One North Shore in Deerfield. The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception and hors d’oeuvres. A sumptuous dinner will be provided by J&L Catering
Women’s Board members Sarah Alshouse and Kerri Schoonyoung
before guests enjoy dancing to music by the Eddie Butts Band. Tickets for the event, starting at $500, are available here or by contacting Beth Gall, Manager of Development Events, at (847) 832-6917. Kohl Children’s
Gala guest and Museum Trustee Dawn Meiners
Museum anticipates attendance of 500 and hopes to raise over $700,000 to support critical outreach and professional development programming. Good luck with your event! I hope it's a sellout for the kiddies! The Kohl Children's Museum was named one of the country's Ten
Talking "top events" with Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow
Best Children's Museums by Parents Magazine!
I had a blast returning to WCIU's "You & Me" recently to chat about my HOT event picks! I always love sitting beside co-hosts Melissa
Melissa Forman wears Escada on the runway for Service Club of Chicago's "Day on the Terrace"
Forman and Jeanne Sparrow, who were both invited to walk in the Service Club of Chicago's "Day on the Terrace" fashion show. Melissa wore a gorgeous midnight blue dress from Escada but, sadly, Jeanne had dental surgery and couldn't attend. To check out my "You & Me" segment, click here, and to see Melissa's fab runway walk, look here!
The Joffrey Ballet will celebrate Krzysztof Pastor's critically acclaimed reimagining of Shakespeare's "Romeo & Juliet" with an elegant luncheon on Monday, September 26, at LondonHouse Chicago. The event will be hosted by its Women's Board and co-chaired by Jamie-Clare Colvin, Ellie Forman and Kathleen Henson and will include a reception and panel conversation. For tickets, $200, and more info, click here!
"Evening on Astor", the block party on steroids, will return on Wednesday, September 7, to Astor Street, between Banks and Goethe from 5:30 to 8:30. The event will feature music by the Michael Lerich Orchestra, drinks from the Lodge Management Group and delicious treats from a variety of food trucks. The evening will benefit Gold Coast Neighbor's Association, that helps protect, educate and beautify this neighborhood. (Woody Allen said, if he decided to make a film in Chicago, this is where he would like to film it!) For more info, click here!
There's an APP for that? Like Uber for transportation, we now have an app for BEAUTY thanks to tech entrepreneur Susanna Quinn. She is bringing her own special brand of luxury to Chicago with Veluxe, an on-demand beauty and fitness app that is available NOW! In just 4 clicks, you can find the perfect at-home blowout, makeup, personal training and more. When Quinn, a mom and former realtor, says that though Veluxe is still in its start-up phase, when word got out, she was deluged with requests from both would-be clients and job applicants. I'm not one bit surprised! Congrats and welcome to the Windy City Susanna! To sign up, download the Veluxe app in the App Store (Android & Apple).
The American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science (ACWIS) Midwest Region, honors long-time Weizmann Institute supporter, civic leader and philanthropist Renée Crown at its annual Weizmann Institute Gala on Saturday, Oct. 29, at the Fairmont Hotel. Every year supporters of the Weizmann Institute come together for one special night in Chicago to raise funds for the research facility, based in Israel, which is home to thousands of scientists who strive daily to improve mankind’s understanding of nature and illnesses. The evening will feature a discussion with esteemed immunologist and nominee for the 2016 Nobel Prize in Medicine, Professor Zelig Eshhar covering his career and his research of T-Cells. The celebration begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner, as guests celebrate Crown’s many efforts and achievements and her long-standing support of the Weizmann Institute of Science. Co-chair Marilyn Perlman (along with Brian Price) said, "Renee Crown has devoted so much of her time to countless Chicago organizations and non-profits. From the arts to education
Pete's Dragon, a delightful fantasy for young and old
to well-being, Mrs. Crown is a shining example of a dedicated citizen and a personal role model." Amen to that! Just love her! Congrats Renee! (For tickets and more info, click here!)
And now for my movie review! If you're a fan of fantasy like Chuck and me, then you will LOVE "Pete's Dragon"! You never know until the very end which way the wind blows. And I love Robert Redford (who doesn't?), both as a
Actress Bryce Dallas Howard plays Grace in the film and could be Sheila O'Grady Duffy's twin sister!
young Hollywood hunk and as a grizzled old man. 4 STARS! Also, check out Bryce Dallas Howard who plays Grace (exquisitely and lovingly) in the film. She is Sheila O'Grady Duffy's double! (And just why aren't there any woman film reviewers?)
Chase and Monika Garrett
I want to congratulate one of the coolest guys I know who also happens to have been an awesome cop for THREE decades! Much love and happiness to Chase Garrett and his beautiful Monika on his much deserved recent retirement! Here's the sweet comment he posted on his Facebook page, "I've worked with some great people on the Chicago Police Dept. over the last three decades. I've also worked
Chase Garrett, a cop for 3 decades, with friends before his retirement
side by side with other heroes, namely the Chicago Firemen and Paramedics. I want to thank you all and you'll always be my family. The other heroes I want to thank are the ones that do so much, but get little credit or mention. I want to give special thanks to the CHICAGO DISPATCHERS , who guide us, get us help when we need it and are a very important part of the team that we could not exist without." Wish we could clone
"American Playboy: The Hugh M. Hefner Story"–in his own words.
you Chase! Good luck and thanks so much for your service!
Amazon has ordered a 13 series documentary from Stephen David Entertainment and Alta Loma Entertainment titled "American Playboy: The Hugh M. Hefner Story"! It's
Hugh Hefner amid his 2,600 personal scrapbooks
reported that Hef has been "deeply involved." It's good to know there will be a story about Hef in his own words! The series begins with the launch of Playboy in 1953 and continues over six decades as Hefner adopts social justice
Hef shares his story in photos
causes and tussles with conservatives and the FBI. Producers will have access to more than 17,000 hours of footage from the Playboy archives as well as the 90-year-old Hefner’s more than 2,600 “personal scrapbooks.” The doc will premiere in 2017 on the Amazon Prime SVOD service in the U.S., UK, Germany, Austria and Japan. I can't wait!
Common Threads' Associate Board will host its 6th Annual Cook-Off on Thursday, October 6, at Revel (1215 W. Fulton Market). Experience an imaginative display of food, drink and culinary creativity as 30 of Chicago’s top chefs and master mixologists serve their favorite themed dishes and inventive cocktails. Guests vote for their favorite dish and cocktail in categories – from the garden, pasture, seed, barn, and barrel, with the top pick in each winning BIG, bragging rights! For tickets, $75, and more info, click here: http://bit.ly/2aS3e42
I hope you've enjoyed this week's edition and I hope you're all still grilling your little hearts out. I'm sad that summer is coming to an end, but oh what a summer it's been! Hope you're having fun too!
