Tag Archives: Joe Schmidt

THIS WAY TO THE BEACHES! SURVIVING CHICAGO’S WINTERS AND SO MUCH MORE!

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Chuck at Trevini restaurant, Palm Beach.

There is no better antidote for Chicago's winters than a trip to a warm climate. Chuck and I were lucky this year to have an extended vacay in Florida, a week in Hobe Sound with my sister-in-law and then two glorious weeks in Palm Beach. The first word that comes to mind about being in

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With Leslie Hindman and Chuck at Trevini restaurant, Palm Beach.

Florida is "liberating." Restaurants are open, people are walking the streets with smiles on their faces, churches are holding services and I didn't see one boarded up store.

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The manicured perfection of Palm Beach.

Granted, people are still masked and practicing social distancing but it seems less fear-based than Chicago and more common sense-based there. I'm not surprised that people live longer in Florida, no dangerous icy sidewalks, more physical activity and a LOT more vitamin D! In a perfect world, I would divide my time between the two but that's not doable so I will

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At Pizza al Fresco, PB, with Kim Renk, Greg Dryer, Leslie Hindman and Chuck.

just enjoy every minute we're away and keep those memories top of mind when I receive weather updates

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Beauty along A1A.

from Chiberia. Hobe Sound is beautiful, quiet but lovely. You can actually hear the birds in the trees and the gentle sounds of kids playing pickleball from Loblolly Pines Golf Club. We spent time with my sister-in-law, Nancy Steinwald, who lost her husband Dr. Os Steinwald a year ago. It

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Kitchy City Diner in West Palm Beach.

was bittersweet as there was really nothing we could do to ease her pain except be there for her. So, we went to dinners and had a memorable brunch at Harry and the Natives, a restaurant that seemed to be plucked

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Harry & the Natives in Hobe Sound, a Jimmy Buffet inspired restaurant.

straight out of Jimmy Buffet's "Cheeseburger in Paradise" song. After the end of our stay in Hobe Sound, we rented a racy red Mustang convertible and headed for Palm Beach where our dear friend Leslie Hindman was gracious enough to invite us for a stay. Her home, in the heart of Palm Beach, had just been sold within 4 hours of being on the market! Her new home is even closer to the ocean and so beautiful. She has impeccable taste and

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At Renato's, PB, with Ken Norgan, Leslie Hindman and Chuck.

vision so we can't wait to see what she does with this latest acquisition. When we left, it was already Architectural Digest perfect. As smart as she is in her auction business, I think her true calling lies in real estate. I think it's also a passion of hers….We had so many

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With Christine Schott, Palm Beach Social Diary author.

dinners at wonderful restaurants that I lost count….but, as for the extra pounds Chuck and I gained, sadly I do know that number. There is so much happening in Palm Beach now. It's not the sleepy little town I

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The Breakers which, sadly, appears to now have office furniture for the lobby decor.

remember from our first visit years ago. In part, due to the influx of NYC restaurants that have recently relocated there. Our favorite, Swifty's, is also the most beautiful with old world charm combined with rich, modern touches. The hotel it lives in, The Colony (155 Hammon Ave), is steps from Worth Avenue and was established in 1947. After Andrew Wetenhall (Andrew's family were the hotel's previous

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Peace and quiet in Hobe Sound.

owners) and wife Sarah purchased the hotel in 2016, Sarah discovered a mid-century postcard featuring the hotel's original lobby which was painted with a mural titled "The Early Days in Palm Beach." The mural inspired a partnership with the famed house of de Gournay, known for exquisite, hand painted

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One of my favorite shops in PB, F. S. Henemader.

wallpapers. Kemble Interiors created the decor and the place is even more beautiful now with the wallpaper hiding secret meanings about the owners and its history, including a sweet drawing of the couple's King Charles Spaniel. Swifty's founder, Robert Caravaggi, has created another hit here and his presence makes the restaurant hum with excitement day and night. (The Colony contacted

Candace and Chuck in Palm Beach

Before dinner at Club Colette with Leslie Hindman, Nancy Traylor and friend.

him in 2019 asking him to open there after the NYC outpost closed in 2016.) On this visit, I was lucky to dine here on a couple of occasions, once

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Chuck, dreaming on Worth Avenue.

for dinner around the pool (with its dramatic views) with Leslie and Chuck and, on another day, lunch with friends Kim Renk, Sharon Bush and Fran Weissler. Fran is 93 years young and a real hoot. She regaled us with her stories in show business with her husband Barry (they are Broadway producers with over 9 Tony Awards to their credit!–Pippin, La Cage aux Folles, Sweet Charity, Wonderful Town, Grease, Cabaret–you get the picture). Their first production on Broadway, "Othello," scored their first Tony Award and starred Christopher Plummer and James Earl Jones. The story of how she snagged Plummer for the role could be made into its own movie. Anyway, we also dined at another former NYC hotspot, Le Bilboquet (245 Worth Ave.), that's also relocated to PB. This was a slightly different story….Even though the space was heart-breakingly chic, the service and prices were not. Our waiter took my order and then walked away without even taking Chuck's! It is a new spot, but at these prices, there should be no room for errors like this.

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La Goulue, Palm Beach, another NYC transplant to PB.

Anyway, I hope they can up their service game as it is a lovely spot. The third hotspot transplanted from NYC is the newly opened La Goulue at 288 S. County Rd. This restaurant

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Batch, a Southern-style restaurant in Palm Beach on bustling Clematis Street.

is so true to the original that you feel like you could be at the one still located in NYC. The

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Another great home decor shop in PB, Jennifer Garrigues.

French cuisine is impeccable and delicious. The Wine Channel's Jessica Altieri suggested a waiter there that she knew, Fernando, who came from the Four Seasons PB (which was entirely taken over by Ken Griffin's Citadel corp. during quarantine!) Anyway, the whole evening was a delight there and I highly recommend it. In a Palm Beach Social Diary article, "All Eyes on Palm Beach," one of my favorite writers, Christine Schott, said, "Booking a reservation in Palm Beach has now become a sport." I agree, it was difficult at times, but if you're nice

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The one and only Colony Hotel with its beautiful, new de Gournay wallpaper.

on the phone, sometimes reservations do open up. Lol! And not only is the restaurant scene heating up, but the real estate market is insane. In a Palm Beach Daily News article (the "shiny sheet"), the cover story was

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Le Bilboquet, looking down its tunneled entryway.

about an estate at 320 Island Road that sold in January for $26M and then was back on the market in less than a month for $45M! Miami Realtors Association stated, "Palm Beach County luxury home sales spiked 83% in Q3, of 2020." A fun note about the "shiny sheet", I was talking to the check-out lady at Green's Pharmacy and she gave me a little history about this revered newspaper that is now all plain, white paper. She

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Driving A1A, the best….

said, "Back in the day, when women wore white gloves, they didn't want to get ink on them so the paper was glossy to avoid newsprint, aka the "shiny sheet." So, now you know. Some other highlights included the newly opened White Elephant Palm Beach (280 Sunset Ave.) a super-chic, super-

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With Leslie Hindman and Chuck at her new PB house.

pricey luxury boutique hotel (with Lola 41 restaurant, which friends Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas LOVED); The Ben (part of the Marriott's Autograph Collection) at 251 N. Narcissus in West Palm Beach. Its rooftop restaurant, Spruzzo, has breathtaking views of PB; Pizza al Fresco (where a famous descendant of President John Adams resides in the former Addison Mizner home with his pet pig, wife and an assortment of other pets), 14 Via Mizner; a couple of favorite design stores, F.S. Henemader, 316 S. County Road, and Jennifer Garrigues, 308 Peruvian); Batch, a fabulous Southern-style restaurant in West Palm Beach at 223 Clematis; Henry's Palm Beach (owned by The Breakers) at 229 Royal Poinciana Way is too cold and stark, we walked out; City Diner, a charming throwback diner in West Palm Beach at 3400 S. Dixie Hwy.; Trevini, a chic restaurant at 223 Sunset Ave.; Palm Beach Grill at Royal Poinciana Plaza doesn't have the pizzazz it once had; and of course Renatos, at 87 Via Mizner is perpetually elegant and chic.

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Views from The Ben, a new hotel in West Palm Beach owned by the Marriott.

Our friend/designer Daniel Kinkade told us not to miss The Breakers this year. He wanted to know what I thought about its recent reno. I didn't like it at all. It looked like they replaced their plush, luxurious lobby furniture with stuff from IKEA. It was a horrible mix for this iconic, National Historic Landmark that deserves better. Thankfully, the magnificent carpet is still in place as are the luxurious floral arrangements that dot the vaulted lobby. This vacation was sorely needed. I'm sorry my blog is late because of it, but it gave us memories to last a lifetime and I hope some news you can use here. Special thanks, with love, to all of our friends (and my sister-in-law Nancy) who joined us, played with us and shared their homes. Forever grateful.

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No restaurant in PB beats dining around the Colony's pool at Swifty's, our favorite hands down.

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Dori and Lori

Dori and Lori, she knew everybody and they loved her.

Still can't believe she's gone. Dori Wilson was such a powerful light, every room she walked into she made it better. I met her

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Dori Wilson, one of the best kind.

when I first moved to Chicago in the early 70s. She was a Chicago star even then and she kindly took me under her wing, introducing me to all the important people. She even had me in the front row at Operation Push headquarters to meet Rev. Jesse Jackson. Everyone who knew her, loved her. We even talked about going into the public relations business together. Don't get me wrong, she wasn't all warm and fuzzy. Whatever was on her mind, she let you know. She was a "no bull-sh_t" kind of a girl for sure. And I admired that. She never pretended to be something she wasn't and didn't want her friends to be that way either. She gravitated towards people who were similar–real, honest, hard working and good-hearted–she loved Michael Kutza who she saw regularly, the late Victor Skrebneski who photographed her

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With her dear friends Michael Kutza and Victor Skrebneski.

often and her dearest friend Lee Blackwell Baur, who created a foundation (with other friends) in

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Dori during her successful modeling days.

her honor, The Dori Wilson Foundation. This foundation will support some of the many charities she lent her heart and time to. She loved and raised her nephew Travis and always shared his achievements like a proud mom. We were both Chihuahua lovers and she called hers, Taco and Belle, they were her "babies." But as much as I thought I knew her, I realized after reading her obit (written lovingly by another dear friend of hers, Tarrah Cooper Wright), that there was so much I didn't know about this most remarkable woman. 0e9b49_f9b3c6082d0d4c46973b2fbcf9859c6f~mv2_d_1800_2700_s_2Here's an excerpt: "Dori Wilson was born to Fannie Brown Wilson and William Wilson on October 15, 1943, in Winona, Mississippi. She spent the earliest years of her life smelling the honeysuckle bush on the side of the house,

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Beautiful Dori.

walking uphill to school each morning, developing a fondness for fishing, and listening to the crickets as she lay in bed each night. When Dori was 7, the family moved to Hyde Park, Illinois, and then to Chicago’s bustling Washington Park neighborhood. Dori loved reading, tumbling and doing double-dutch, but would later remember always working—reupholstering chairs, finishing her homework and book reports early so she could draw and create art, and earning money by doing hair for the

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Dori with friends Patrick Sheehan and Cheryl Coleman.

neighborhood ladies when she was just 9. For Dori, having a keen eye for beauty and a strong work ethic always came naturally. As a high school freshman at Hyde Park High School, Dori caught the bus to the Woolworth store at 43rd & Ellis, where she—age 14, not 16—had lied about her age to get a

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Dori with former Mayor Harold Washington.

job.  After high school, Dori attended Roosevelt University before working at Goldblatt’s on State Street, and then at Compton Advertising as a secretary and assistant producer. One day, while at a commercial shoot, Dori met a talent agent who suggested

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Dori, always chic, even working….

that Dori shouldn’t just be behind the camera—she should be in front of it. Tall, thin and beautiful, Dori had all the makings of a model. She later remembered that while there were few models who looked like her at the time, she didn’t see that as a roadblock—she saw her uniqueness as an asset, and she was right. Dori was motivated by her inner drive to always go after what she wanted and to not take no as a final answer. But she also knew she was breaking barriers for other Black girls and women. As a Tease_doriwilson-1-500x281dark-skinned Black woman, Dori felt that she always had to work harder, try harder, and aim higher than many of her peers because of the way things were stacked against her; Dori was determined to succeed against any obstacle, and she did.  “I first saw Dori from afar when I was a teenager working in

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Lee Blackwell Baur, Dori, Zorada Gowenlock and Deirdre Pratt.

a stock room on Oak Street,” said longtime friend and Ariel Investments Co. CEO/President Mellody Hobson. “When I raved about her to my mother, she told me that Dori was helping to change old-fashioned and highly conventional definitions of beauty. When I later met her as a young professional, we became instant friends. I often told her that when I looked at her face, I saw the face of my own mother. She was

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Dori with Pam Capitanini and Myra Reilly.

quite special to many, including me.” In 1964, Dori became the first Black runway model in Chicago. She opened shows for Bonwit Teller, Marshall Field's, I. Magnin, Carson Pirie Scott and Saks and worked with acclaimed photographer and friend Victor Skrebneski. Around this time, people in the business told her to quit advertising and model full time. But Dori had too many

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With Dori, Barb Samuels and friend.

ideas to just be a canvas on which other people painted their stories. In 1968, she joined Foote, Cone & Belding to work on their advertising project with Sears, Roebuck & Co, and in 1970, she was promoted to Director of Fashion and Casting. That same year, an appearance as a contestant on TV’s “The Dating Game” won her a trip to Italy and England. Dori Merlin_38540953

continued to split her time and modeled in numerous fashion shows, advertisements and events, including Gucci’s Fall 1970 campaign and the Dress Horsemen and Trophy Board Annual Benefit Fashion Spectacular

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Dori featured in "My Start Story."

in 1975. She even served as the prototype for the first Black mannequin in Marshall Field’s and hosted her own public affairs talk show called “Memorandum” on WMAQ-TV.  In 1980, Dori launched Dori Wilson & Associates. For 40 years, she served clients across a broad range of industries, crafting their messages and helping them reach new audiences. Her clients included the City of U888ntitledChicago, Tiffany & Co., the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and many more. Dori never waited for the phone to ring; instead, she picked it up and asked for what she wanted. She was never U77ntitledscared of hearing “no.” She kept moving until she found the “yes.” Dori was committed to giving back to the community and served on the board of many organizations including the Harris Theater, The Council of Regents of Loyola University, PAWS Chicago, Chicago Workforce Board, Chicago International Film Festival, Columbia College, Brookfield Zoo, First Bank & Trust of Illinois, Board of Trustees of the Chicago Public Library, Girls Scouts of Chicago Association Board, and more. In interviews with The History Makers organization, Dori

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Dori with Helen "Helpful" Melchior.

noted that while she got her work ethic from her father, she got her kindness from her mother—a quality she prized even more. She was asked many questions, but two in particular resonate today.  How would you like to be remembered? “Dori was good and kind and did her best to help others,” she said. If Travis is Dori_400x400watching this, what would you want him to know? “That I loved him and did the best I could, and that I’m very happy to have had him in my life.” Dori departed the world on February 1, 2021. She is survived by her nephew Travis Wilson, her brother William Thomas Wilson, Sr. and his spouse Joanna; her nephew Wil Wilson and his wife

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Dori and Shauna Montgomery.

Kathy, grand-nieces Laura, Brittany and Taylor Wilson; first cousins Mary Elizabeth Hunt and her husband Colle, Bettie Ann Priester and her husband John; second cousins Maria Hunt, Lisa Hunt, Colle Hunt, Jr. and wife Janice and their children Naomi

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Kate and Leslie Zentner with Dori.

and Isabel. She was preceded in death by parents Fannie Laura Brown and William (Willie) Wilson, sister Mamie Agusta Wilson, and half-sisters Georgia Jones and Dorothy Edwards. Dori's friend/philanthropist Lee Blackwell Baur, summed up her friend's remarkable life and presence, “Dori Wilson was a trailblazing woman and Chicago icon who brought a larger than life status to the many fundraising efforts and charitable organizations she touched. Her stunning beauty and unbridled energy put her in a distinctive category, touching the lives of so many including my own. Our 20-year friendship was one of mutual respect and undying love. We will honor Dori’s life with the creation of the Dori Wilson Foundation, which will support those organizations to which Dori so intimately gave her heart and soul.” You are greatly missed dear Dori.

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There will never be another. RIP dear Dori.

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Sam Toia, president/CEO IRA.

Kudos to Sam Toia and the Illinois Restaurant Association for continuing to fight for our restaurants

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Restaurateur Sam Sanchez, new IRA board chair.

and also for its exciting new honorees and board of directors! First off, congrats to Sam Sanchez, the newly elected chairman of the board. Sanchez most recently served as the IRA's First Vice Chairman and is the Founder and CEO of Third Coast Hospitality Group. In the mid-80s, Sam moved from his family's hometown in Sabinas Hidalgo, Mexico to start what is now an accomplished

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Restaurant critic Phil Vettel, Lifetime Achievement honoree.

hospitality career in Chicago. In addition to his

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Amanda Puck, Mariano's Director of Strategic Brand Development, accepted the Sara Rowe ProStart Company of the Year award on behalf of Mariano's.

restaurants, he also owns EMC Construction, a full-service construction company that handles renos of existing properties and new construction. In other IRA news, award recipients were announced in four categories: Restaurateur of the Year to Gregory Schulson, CEO of Burrito Beach and Lunan Corporation; Vendor of the Year to Gordon Food Service, Performance Foodservice, US Foods and Sysco; the Sara Rowe ProStart Company of the Year to Mariano's (accepted by Amanda Puck, Director of Strategic Brand Development) and a special Lifetime Achievement Award went to Phil Vettel, longtime food writer for the Chicago Tribune. Congrats to ALL!

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Misericordia's Sister Rosemary Connelly and Lois Gates, Assistant Executive Director.

And, in the mean time, I'm receiving lots of encouraging event notices. I'm hopeful we'll be back in person soon at our beloved nonprofit events. On Feb.

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Beloved philanthropists Diane and Richard Weinberg.

27, Cal's Angel's hosted a virtual fundraiser for pediatric cancer. The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted Norma Kamali as she discussed her new book, virtually, "I AM Invincible" on Feb. 25. Presenting sponsors were Liz Stiffel and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The Chicago Lighthouse hosted a Texas Hold 'Em poker tournament on Feb. 26 to raise funds for its mission of serving the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities. On February 26, Misericordia hosted "Heart of Gold: A Night at the Races" to support its services for children and adults with special needs. Girls in the Game celebrated its 26th anniversary, also on Feb. 26, of empowering girls and helping them build their confidence and social skills. More to come!

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Womensday2Join the dynamic ladies of The Service Club of Chicago on Monday, March 8, from 5-6 pm, CST.  I'm so proud to host this tribute/Zoom party in honor of International Womens Day! Any donation of $25 or more will get you into the virtual party! Join us to help the SC carry on their 131 year mission of supporting those in need.  (Click here to register/donate here

Each spring,  the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Holocaust museum awards dinner--March 10Center hosts its signature event, the Humanitarian Awards Dinner. Now one of the largest fundraising dinners in the city of Chicago, this high profile event pays tribute to pillars in our community, Holocaust Survivors and highlights the Museum’s achievements. This year's dinner on Wednesday, March 10, will be a hybrid event with virtual and in-person (limited) programming. Honorees include Exelon Corporation, Scott Swanson (PNC Bank, Ill.) and Zev and Shifra Karkomi (posthumously, Survivor Legacy Award). Keynote speaker will be Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, former NBA star/activist. (For Porchlighttickets and more info, click here!)  

Porchlight Music Theatre will host "Chicago Sings Rock &  Roll Broadway" virtually on Saturday, March 20. The honoree will be Tony Award winning actress Felicia P. Fields. The event will feature a who’s-who roster of Chicago’s own music theatre and cabaret favorites with all funds raised supporting the theatre's artistic and educational programming. (For tickets/details, click here!)  

St. Patrick's High School, led by friend and president Joe Green and Gold Gala  2021--March 11 Schmidt, is asking for your support of its virtual Shamrock Green & Gold Gala on Thursday, March 11. Funds will support its mission to provide educational experiences of the highest quality which enables young men to develop their highest potential as lifelong learners and assets to society and the Church. (For more info, click here)

Bes Ben costume councilJoin the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum for some vintage, fashion fun on Tuesday, March 23 from 5:30 – 7 pm, CST! The webinar presentation will discuss the rich history of Bes-Ben hats, Chicago's Mad Hatter, alongside former costume curator of the Museum, Elizabeth Jachimowicz, and Nena Ivon.The first 40 registrants will receive a free set of Bes-Ben magnets! Details here!

And speaking of nonprofits, I was so proud to co-host,

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Steak 48's Oliver Badgio and Agency H5's Kathleen Sarpy.

with Agency H5's Kathleen Sarpy, Pretty Powerful 3.0, a zoom party celebrating the city's philanthropic leaders. Nearly 70 women joined us for a virtual cocktail party sponsored by Steak 48 on February 9. Last year, we hosted the party at the restaurant but, this year, we were proud and grateful to be able to continue this tradition despite Covid. Four nonprofit

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Some of the nearly 70 community leaders who joined Pretty Powerful 3.0.

leaders: Nancy Wright, CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago; Holly Buckendahl, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana; Lauren Schrero Levy, executive director of The Nora Project and Marilynn Gardner, CEO of Navy Pier, shared how their organizations had pivoted and adapted to the changes caused by the pandemic, as well as their hopes for the future. I was so excited to see so many familiar (powerful) faces, including Heather Owen (One Tail at a Time), Katie Law (PAWS Chicago),

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More Pretty Powerful 3.0 participants.

Brenda Langstraat (Chicago Public Library), Mimi Plauche (Chicago International Film Festival), Joyce Winnecke (YWCA Metro Chicago), Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Shelley MacArthur (Old St. Pat's rep), Sandi Hartstein (The Joffrey Ballet), Rebecca Darr (WINGS) and SOOO many others! As a surprise at the end of the zoom party, Steak 48 (Oliver Badgio and Jeff Mastro, Steak 48 owner) provided participants with a dining gift certificate to the restaurant, located at 615 N. Wabash Ave., as a show of appreciation for their service to the Chicago community. I'm already looking forward to Pretty Powerful 4.0!! Thanks to all who participated and shared their plans for the future and told us how they coped in 2020. It was such an inspiring hour of hope and friendship! God Bless our Nonprofits!

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BEST--TPAN--When-Dogs-Heal CandaceIt's all good, dogs and inspiring stories that heal hearts! Please join me on Thursday, March 25, when I host (TPAN) Test Positive Network's launch of a new book–"When Dogs Heal: Powerful Stories of People Living with HIV and the Dogs That Saved Them." Changing the narrative surrounding life with HIV, the book is a series of deeply personal accounts that tell a story of connection, survival and the transformative

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Dr. Robert Garafalo, photo by Jan Terry.

power of a dog’s unconditional love. You’re invited to join TPAN and me on March 25 for a discussion featuring the author of "When Dogs Heal," Dr. Rob Garofalo, an HIV specialist whose practice centers on adolescents and LGBTQ youth. Join us as we discuss the book, share our life journeys—and, of course, talk about dogs! Dr. Rob will be joined by some of the people living with HIV who appear in the book, and by Julie Supple, TPAN’s programs director, who will discuss Paws N' Effect, TPAN’s program that brings together people living with HIV with a dog companion. When you purchase When Dogs Heal from Unabridged Bookstore either online or at their store, Unabridged will donate 20% of the book price to TPAN with all proceeds going directly to the Paws n’ Effect program, which helps find safe, forever homes for rescue dogs. “ Please sign up here and join us at 6 pm, CST, Thursday, March 25.

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Maria Pappas

And she can cook too, Maria Pappas, Cook County Treasurer.

Hats off, again, to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. She had a standing O at the Polish Museum of America recently in honor of Pulaski Day. She gave this amazing speech (without notes, see below)) that left the audience wildly applauding. She is one of our city's most active politicians, always looking for ways to help we, the people. Recently, she and her team assembled a 234 page report describing the eye-popping trends of property tax growth in Cook County. She is sharing the data as a call to action for voters who have sat on the sidelines while taxes have continued to skyrocket. "The residences and commercial owners, who do not vote have allowed this to happen because they don't hold anybody accountable. I want to inspire people to get registered," she said. Amen to that Maria! On another Maria note, catch her WVON radio show every Monday (1690 AM) when she hosts "Black Houses Matter," a talk show about helping homeowners access unclaimed property tax refunds. Mayor Pappas? Sounds good to me!

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Chicago Star debuted March 1  2021

Chicago Star- debut issue!

There is lots of exciting news on the Chicago Star Media front! First off, I'm thrilled to announce that I've been named Contributing Editor to this wonderful group of papers that I like to call "a love letter to Chicago." I love its mission, which is mine too, to deliver positive news you can use with a hyper-local bent. In other words, a paper about Chicago,

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With CSM publisher/founder Elaine Hyde. (Who's also a physicist!)

for Chicago! Our first rebranded issue as Chicago Star debuted on March 1 and it's a hit, I'm proud to say! (Read it all here) We have a brand new writer, Bridget McGuire,

Gibson's staff and Chicago Star

Gibson's Restaurant Group are Chicago Star fans! (Thank you Kathy O'Malley Piccone!)

whose story "The Pandemic, Sales and the Single Girl", will make you laugh out loud! And I'm pretty proud of my column in this new issue too, "Wedding Bell DOs", with fabulous love stories and advice and tips from couples you know from around town. They include Gibson's Restaurant Group's Peg and Steve Lombardo, Izzy Idonije and Jatnna Toribio, WGN-TV's Ana Belaval and Steve Vihon, "Windy City Live's" Val Warner and Elijah "Jobba" Maxey, The Joffrey Ballet's Victoria Jaiani and Temur Suluashvili, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Cheryl and Albert Grace, Marcus Riley and Jude Fitzgerald, Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis, award winning producer/director/writers Robert and Leslie Zemeckis, Agency H5's

Howard Tullman and Gertie.

Chicago Star Advisory Board member Howard Tullman and Gertie.

Kathleen and Chris Sarpy and more. These couples shared some great tips on making, keeping and building relationships with some surprising admissions. (Read story here!) We are building a family at Chicago Star and want you to be a part of it! Don't miss an issue, subscribe now

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Chicago Star Advisory Board member Bonnie Tullman (and her Remi) are fans!

here! Special thanks to our exciting, STELLAR new Advisory Board members too: Howard Tullman, Sargent McCormick, Bonnie Spurlock, Sherren Leigh, Paul Iacono, Leslie Hindman, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Michael Kutza, Robert Zentner, Alex Pissios and Tom Kehoe. We are SOOOO grateful for your support! In more exciting news, Chicago Star was the featured article in this week's must-read Robert Feder's column. (Read it here

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Love and thanks to all of the romantic couples here who shared their stories with me!

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04-RS_McCormickWintrust_45I hate sharing bad news but it doesn't look like our city's convention business is coming back, this year at least. The Chicago Dental Society has cancelled its annual February meeting. Since March, more than 200 trade shows have been scrapped according to info from the Illinois Restaurant Association. These shows were expected to generate more than 2 billion for Chicago. Other cancellations include the National Restaurant Association show, the Inspired Home show and even Macy's annual, greatly anticipated Flower Show display at the State Street store. On a brighter front, it appears that the Chicago Auto Show is still working on returning this year. Fingers crossed for better convention news coming soon.

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I Marie Kondo-ed my closets.

I started spring cleaning early this year. Saw a moth and freaked. I'm finished now with one walk-in closet and will soon be heading for the others. It was a bittersweet walk down memory lane. I'm a saver so I loathe throwing anything away, especially things with sentimental value. I had to decide what to do with a lot of pieces of clothing that had special memories for me. I have the top I wore when Chuck and I got our marriage license; the gown I wore to my first Joffrey Ballet Gala; the gown I wore when I co-chaired a Service Club Gala; the cocktail dress I wore when I was honored by the Chicago Lighthouse; the short red

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I started a little early.

dress I wore to the opening of the Modern Wing, the fancy custom top, created by an Art Institute student, I wore when I was inducted into the BizBash Hall of Fame…well, you get the idea. They all hold such special memories for me and even looking at them makes all of those memories and occasions come back in a rush. But, I have to grow up and out of this habit. I got rid of them all and I feel 20 pounds lighter (kinda). I got rid of everything except the top I wore for getting our marriage license. That will stay.

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IMG_3158_Facetune_03-03-2021-15-15-08With the weather getting warmer and restaurant restrictions becoming more reasonable, I'm almost giddy with excitement. We get our second shot recently and, after that, I can't wait to go bar hopping and cram myself into crowded elevators. (Totally kidding here) But it's fun to think about reaching a better place in our city and country….(prayer hands here).

Thanks for tuning in and for your patience with my late blog! If not a subscriber, please sign up here!

Love, as always,

Candace

(Send any info, questions or comments to Candace@CandidCandace.com)

P.S.  Meet Peyo, the intuitive therapy horse.

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PLAYBOY HOLIDAY PARTY UNVEILS ITS FIRST EQUALITY ISSUE FEATURING FIVE DECADES OF PLAYMATES

Plus: Praying for Australia and how to help; Sheryl and Joe's big day; Goodbye Fabrice; Ashley's honor; NYE with NBC's "Chicago Today"; Push Excel's MLK Jr. Scholarship Breakfast; NYE at La Scarola; Service Club of Chicago's debut event "New Year, New Me, TEA!"; Stockton's grand opening; Remi is a cover star; Tracey passes the gavel; Hope Through Caring Gala; Videos and so much MORE!

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Partygoers at Playboy magazine's Holiday Party on December 11.

Playboy magazine hosted a kick-ass Holiday Party at the Culver Hotel on December 11.  It was a little like old home week for me as I loved seeing the past

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Playboy magazine, Winter 2020, The Equality Issue

Playmates who were in attendance. It was also exciting to get a first-look at the Winter 2020 issue, titled "The Equality Issue: Once a Playmate, Always a Playmate." I was proud to be included along with Renee Tenison (the first African American PMOY, 1990, and November 1989 PM); Victoria

PB Holiday Party with Raquel Pomplun (PMOY 2013)  Ashley Doris (March 2013) and Tiffany Toth (Sept. 2011).

Ashley Doris (March 2013 PM), Tiffany Toth (Sept. 2011 PM) and Raquel Pomplun (PMOY 2013) (@rpomplun photo)

Valentino (September 1963 Playmate who was a Cosby victim and is now the oldest PM to ever appear in the magazine at age 77); Raquel Pomplun (the first Mexican/ American PMOY, 2013, and the April 2012 Playmate) and Brande Roderick (PMOY 2001 and April 2000 PM). News of the issue has been featured in Forbes, People and the Daily Mail as it's a first for the magazine and celebrates diversity, Facetune_31-12-2019-15-02-09empowerment and 5 decades of Playmates. This party was the first without any Hefners and I didn't know quite what to expect as I'm a lifelong fan of the Hefner family and, of course, the man who started it all. At first, it felt a little like a betrayal but then the incredibly welcoming Playboy staff made me, and

Bonnie Large March 1973 and Victoria Valentino (Sept. 1963)

Bonnie Large (March 1973 PM) and Victoria Valentino (Sept. 1963 PM)

everyone else, feel right at home. In fact, I felt like I was right where I belonged again. It was also great to finally put faces to the names of some of the staff at the magazine. I was thrilled to see that everything seems to I-Tsc8wxx-XLbe in very capable hands with the likes of Cat Auer, Erica Loewy, Kristi Beck and Micaela Leone, to name a few. Playboy CEO Ben Kohn gave a short speech at the party detailing all of the magazine's recent triumphs and plans for the future, which looks very bright indeed! He announced

Cathy St. George Aug. 1982) and friends.

Cathy St. George, left (Aug. 1982 PM) and friends (@cathystgeorge photo).

that "2019 was a hugely exciting year in our storied history with some phenomenal storytelling and grand moments such as building a world class team that is aligned for 2020, and beyond, and meeting our financial

BEST--Facetune_12-12-2019-Victoria Valentino (Sept. 1963)  Louann Fernald (June 1979)  Jeana Tomasina Keough (Nov. 1980)  Michelle Drake May 1979)

With Victoria Valentino (Sept. 1963) Louann Fernald (June 1979) Jeana Tomasina Keough (Nov. 1980) and Michelle Drake (May 1979).

goals for the third year in a row!…We codified our mission which is not a departure from our 66-year history but rather a recommitment to the DNA that originally made this brand a force to be reckoned with…Our mission is to create a culture where all people can pursue pleasure." He added, "some of the biggest talent on the planet has I-fsfFPvb-XLbeen pursuing us this year to find ways to work together because they believe in what we stand for. This affirmed, for us, that our role serving as a pleasure/lifestyle guide promoting free expression, sex positivity and fun is maybe even more important today than ever before." Kohn went on to speak about Playboy's traction in the market. "Between Playboy-Holiday-Party-2019-100two of Playboy's partners, Pacsun [a California inspired clothing and accessories brand designed for teens and young adults] and Missguided [a global online fashion brand for women], consumers in the U.S. and the U.K. spent almost $50 million buying PB branded products this year. And, Playboy-Holiday-Party-2019-90internationally, we expanded our business by almost $10 million in Asia and also laid the foundation to launch in India. He closed his comments with, "We continue to champion for causes that are important to us through our storytelling,

He likes what he sees!

He likes what he sees!

partnerships, events and charity involvements. These causes include reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, sex workers' rights, free speech, freedom of expression and civil rights, among others. He proposed a toast to "our history, our present,

Kristi Beck and Martin Frederick

Kristi Beck and friend.

our future and each other." This was the second time Chuck and I have been to the Culver Hotel for a Playboy party. The last time was for NYE two year's ago when Cooper Hefner was still in charge. The hotel, established in 1924, is

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Victoria Valentino joyfully holds up the Equality Issue.

loaded with charm and is, in fact, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. "The Wizard of Oz" was filmed a block away and, as the story goes, Judy, the Munchkins and several other cast Playboy-Holiday-Party-2019-90members used to hang out here. On this night, I saw Playmates Jeana (Tomasino) Keough (November 1980 Playmate, Real Housewives of Orange County), Michelle Drake (PM Playboy-Holiday-Party-2019-77 May 1979), Vendela Lindblom (PM Jan. 2019), Bonnie Large (PM March 1973), Cathy St. George (PM August 1982), Raquel Pomplun (PMOY 2013), Ashley Doris (March 2013), Louann Fernald (June 1979 PM), Tiffany Toth (September 2011) and Victoria Valentino (PM Sept. 1963),

Vendela Lindblom  Jan. 2019

Vendela Lindblom (Jan. 2019 PM) and friend.

and so many more. We took lots of photos and chatted about what we were all up to. No matter how long I'm away from Playboy and the Playmates, our interactions always feel like we just left off yesterday. It's a very unique sorority that I'm proud to be a PB Holiday Party invite--cropped for safety-2019part of. It was a night I'll never forget. The excitement over the success of the magazine combined with seeing myself featured 40 years after appearing as a centerfold seemed like a fairytale. Thank you Hef for creating such a loving, loyal and supportive family. I'm so happy to see his vision being carried on in such grand style. I think, and I hope, he likes what he sees. I know I do. (The GOOD party pics are by Kit Karzen)

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Playboy's Winter 2020 "The Equality Issue" cover featuring Renee Tenison (PMOY 1990) and the rest of us in the foreground. Lol!

About the shoot–It was always Hef's (Hugh Hefner's) mantra, 'Once a Playmate, always a Playmate,' and I felt the full force of this after I was asked to fly to L.A.

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Brande Roderick (PMOY 2001) and Raquel Pomplun (PMOY 2013).

for another shoot for Playboy magazine, a full 40 years after appearing as its December 1979 centerfold. The request, obviously, caught me completely off guard since I didn't expect to be modeling for Playboy after all these years. My journey with the organization began way back in 1974 when I first became a Bunny at the St. Louis Playboy

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With Victoria Valentino (Sept. 1963 PM).

Club. My first photo shoot, shortly after, for a "Best Bunnies" pictorial caught the attention of the home

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With Brande Roderick, Renee Tenison, Victoria Valentino and Raquel Pomplun.

office in Chicago and I was quickly invited to transfer to the hub, which I did, moving into the storied Playboy Mansion on State Street on September 22, 1974. Two years ago, Cooper Hefner invited me to reprise my February 1979 cover for another feature for the magazine that included six other "iconic" Playmates–his mother, Kimberly Conrad Hefner

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Outtake (by Nadia Lee Cohen) with Renee Tenision.

(Playmate of the Year 1989, Jan. 1988 Playmate); Reneé Tenison (PMOY 1990, Nov. 1989 PM, who also appears in

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Renee Tenison and Victoria Valentino during photo shoot.

the Equality Issue); Lisa Matthews (PMOY 1991, April 1990 PM); Charlotte Kemp Muhl (December 1982 PM); Cathy St. George (August 1982 PM) and Monique St. Pierre (PMOY 1979, November 1978 PM). This most recent shoot was a complete departure of anything I've ever done for Playboy before. The request to pose came via email on October 9, just after Chuck and I

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A perk of the trip was spending time with my BFF, Tissy Eggleston.

had returned from a trip to Dollywood where I had been happily eating my way through every fried food stand available. This is when the crash "raisin" diet began…..Omgoodness. Talk about

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Centerfold in the issue.

being unprepared! The special edition 12-page cover feature was shot by Nadia Lee Cohen (@nadialeelee), a cool, edgy female photographer who also serves as her own muse on her Instagram

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This issue has garnered lots of press since it's the first of its kind for the magazine.

account, and written by Jamilah Lemieux (@jamilahlemieux). Cohen is a contributing photog for Vogue too. Her surreal vision for the shoot came as a surprise to me and a few others. It involved a step back in time, the swingin' 60s, when wigs were big (literally and

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A tree growing in the living room of Esther Williams' old house where the shoot took place.

figuratively). Nadia's crack styling team was on top of it all. Looooonnngggg fake nails were glued onto everyone's hands and looooonnngggg eyelashes were applied. Heavy eye makeup was the order of the day as were the

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With the truly amazing styling team!

aforementioned wigs. Downstairs, racks and racks of vintage clothing, underwear, heels, jewelry and more were strewn across every spare surface. Oh, and we were instructed to get spray tans before we came. Nadia mentioned during the shoot that she was aiming for something like a " Valley of the Dolls" vibe. I wasn't

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Shoot schedule for the 12-page pictorial.

overly pleased to hear this but, in the end, her vision just rocked and made history for Playboy. The venue was a house in Burbank that was once owned by Esther

Plaque and pjs gifts from PB for photo shoot

Such a class act! Playboy gifted all of us with a framed cover, satin PB PJs and a Bunny logo necklace along with a box of PB branded chocolates. Amazing!

Williams, the iconic swim star from the '40s/'50s. It's vintage vibe had never been touched as witnessed by the throwback wooden features and overall mustiness. An orange shag carpet had been brought in to add more authenticity to the era. There was a pool in back, of course, and a guest house that served as the staging area for wardrobe, hair and makeup. It was a BIG shoot, lots and lots of crew and even a dog wrangler for two cute pups who seemed to want to be

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Brande and Raquel groovin to the music during the shoot.

anywhere else but where they were. I just loved

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Once a Playmate, Always a Playmate! Thanks for all the memories Playboy!

reconnecting with the Playmates and was happy to meet the new guard at Playboy magazine. They were enthusiastic and very respectful of the past yet with a firm eye on the future. I was so honored to be one of the Playmates chosen for this cover feature representing five decades of Playmates. As photographer Nadia Lee Cohen explained, "I wanted to celebrate the original Playmates who helped shape and pioneer the brand"—Just what Hefner always wanted when he coined the phrase and title of the feature "Once a Playmate, Always a Playmate."

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AustraliaAustralia, praying your ordeal will end soon. Please share photos and donate as you can to Red Cross Australia, WIRES, Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors and whatever other agencies you find who are able to help. Any amount, no matter how small, can help. CommonNews.org reports: IMG_3185Ecologists at the University of Sydney are estimating that nearly half a billion animals have been killed in Australia's unprecedented and catastrophic wildfires, which have sparked a continent-wide crisis and forced tens of thousands of IMG_3188people to flee their homes in desperation. News Corp Australia reported that "there are real concerns entire species of plants and animals have been wiped out by bush fires following revelations almost 500 million animals have IMG_3187died since the crisis began." "Ecologists from the University of Sydney now estimate 480 million mammals, birds, and reptiles have been lost since September," according to News Corp. "That figure is likely to soar following the devastating fires which have ripped through Victoria and IMG_3186the [New South Wales] South Coast over the past couple of days, leaving several people dead or unaccounted for, razing scores of homes and leaving thousands stranded." Koalas in particular have been devastated by the fires, Graham noted, because they "really have no capacity to move fast enough to get away." As Reuters reported Tuesday, "Australia's bushland is home to a range of indigenous fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, possums, wombats, and echidnas. Officials fear that 30 percent of just one koala colony on the country's northeast coast, or between 4,500 and 8,400, have been lost in the recent fires." Too sad for words.

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The Joffrey Ballet artistic director Ashley Wheater.

Congrats to The Joffrey Ballet's artistic director, Ashley Wheater! He has just been appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen's 2020 New Year honors were announced recently in the official newspaper of the Crown, The Gazette. (Wild applause emoji here!)

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Fabrice

Goodbye and good luck dear Fabrice Calmels!

On another Joffrey note, we sadly say goodbye to longtime lead dancer Fabrice Calmels, who danced his last dance for the company on December 29 at the Auditorium Theatre in the Nutcracker (by Christopher

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With Fabrice, Mary Lasky, Fabrice and Tina Weller at a Couture & Cocktails event.

Wheeldon) as The Great Impresario of the Fair. He danced opposite April Daley, who starred as the Queen of the Fair. The theater was packed with fans and friends who came to say goodbye and in true Fabrice fashion, he did not disappoint. With a salute to the late Gerald

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Fabrice's last kiss (with April Daley) and last dance onstage for The Joffrey Ballet.

Arpino's empty box, he placed his dance shoes side by side onstage and left the world of dance to the sounds of thunderous applause. (See moving video here). He is headed to L.A. where I know we will seeing a LOT more of him! #starmaterialbaby (Coincidentally, this was also the last Nutcracker at the Auditorium before moving to the Lyric.)

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With NBC Chicago Today's co-hosts Cortney Hall and Matt Rodrigues on NYE.

Thanks so much to NBC's "Chicago Today" for having me on to discuss NYE fashion with co-host Cortney

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Cortney Hall and her glam sis.

Hall! The show came in second in the NYE ratings and was a blast to be a part of! All of the outfits were
festive and creative and worn by adorable people so they were very easy to critique. Thanks to co-host Matt Rodrigues and producer Jamie Gregg for putting together such a cool show (and for including me!) Watch segment here and check Chicago Today show schedule here!

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Armando Vasquez serves up a whole pig on NYE!

Following the NBC segment, Chuck and I enjoyed a NYE dinner at one of our favorite spots, La Scarola, with

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With Chuck, Michael Kutza and Armando Vasquez before things got fuzzy.

Michael Kutza. The place was packed and stacked with beautiful people thanks to co-owner Armando Vasquez who always manages to make every dinner a happening. From beginning to end, it was a great way to welcome in the New Year!

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Newlyweds! Sheryl Dyer and Joe Schmidt!

Love and congrats to newlyweds Sheryl Dyer and Joe Schmidt who tied the knot in front of family and friends on December 28 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help

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Handsome Jack Mackey escorts the flower girls.

Catholic Church in Glenview. Sheryl looked stunning in a backless white gown with a long, elegant train and Joe looked dapper, of course, in his tux. Sheryl's matron of honor was her sister Susan Laudick and Joe's best men were Paul and Bill Schmidt, his brothers. Other bridesmaids included Lauren Laudick and Natalie Laudick and junior bridesmaid Shannon Beyer. Darling flower girls Lanie Beyer and Stella Dyer were escorted by the very proper and

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That dress tho'……

handsome Jack Mackey. Greg Hyder served as a guest soloist and sang "Mary Did You Know" with such depth and feeling that he had the crowd crying happy

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Spectacular transformative decor by Kehoe Designs (Ramsey Prince).

tears. (He belongs on The Voice!) (See him singing here!) Following the beautiful ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and lavish buffet at St. Patrick High School. You can't imagine the transformation Kehoe Designs (Ramsey Prince) did to make this into a most spectacular venue! The theatre, where all the dancing occurred, was breathtakingly beautiful (see photo). I loved the song the

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Sheryl with Tracey Tarantino and guest soloist/friend Greg Hyder.

couple chose for their first dance, "Love Me Tender." Ramsey Prince (of Kehoe) deserves

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The Queen and her court!

a gold medal for decor design! Partygoers never wanted to leave. It was a night to remember and Sheryl's perfect touch could be seen everywhere from the ceremony to the reception following. Her taste has always been exquisite–no wonder she chose Joe! Love and congrats to the happy lovebirds! Forever may you float on a cloud of pure love and joy as we witnessed that night!

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PUSHExcel_mlksb2019The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast, hosted by Push Excel, will be held on Monday, January. 20. The nonprofit promotes educational excellence by engaging stakeholders in education to work together to transform the lives of students. For tickets/more info, click here.

 

 

 

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SC Tea Jan. 12I hope you can join The Service Club of Chicago on Sunday, January 12 at the Drake, when the nonprofit hosts its first "New Year, New Me TEA"! The event begins at 11am with a panel discussion following, moderated by Craig Hogan, that will include Rochelle Trotter, Andrea Schwartz, me and more! For tickets, please click here!  

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2020_Invite_FrontThe Les Turner ALS Foundation will host its annual Hope Through Caring Gala, emceed by the wonderful Dina Bair, on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Radisson Blu. The evening will include dinner, dancing,a paddle raise, balloon raffle and more to honor those whose extraordinary commitment to the fight against ALS has helped raise funds for research and clinical care, provide services for people living with ALS and their families and increase public awareness. For tickets/more info, click here

 

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Remi Spurlock

PAWS Chicago 2020 calendar cover star Remi Spurlock.

I'm so in love with PAWS Chicago's 2020 Desktop Calendar, especially since its cover star is Remi Spurlock, the much loved, handsome feline that owns Bonnie and Jim

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Remi's loving mom and dad, Jim and Bonnie Spurlock.

Spurlock. All of the images in the calendar were shot by photographer/writer David Sutton, who has a keen eye for capturing the shared humanity between people and their pets. Sutton was named the “best pet photographer in America” by Forbes and the Chicago Tribune called him “the Doctor Dolittle of photographers.” I think he captured Regal Remi perfectly! For more info and to purchase a copy of this charming calendar supporting PAWS Chicago, click here!

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Retrospect Chicago returns!

Retrospect Chicago returns on April 24 through April 26 at 1341 W. Randolph, the home of Randolph Street Market! This second annual event, hosted by Image Pilots/ RSM, will feature a vintage fashion show produced by Nena Ivon on Friday, April 24 followed by the weekend market. Last year, was such a blast with so many beautifully curated items for sale–jewelry, clothing, one-of-a-kind designer creations and so much more! The designers there are so knowledgeable and bring their A-Game to this market for sure! I can't wait to see what's on offer this year! Hope you can join us! (For more info, click here!)

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Stockton co-owner Joseph Devito, Special Children's Charities / Special Olympics Chicago Executive Director Heather Kundert, Stockton co-owner Josh Carl.

Stockton Restaurant & Lounge, the globally-inspired restaurant and high-end lounge located in Chicago's Gold Coast at  1009 N. Rush St., celebrated its Grand Opening on Thursday, November 14 with more than 700 attendees. The private event benefited Special Children’s Charities / Special Olympics Chicago. Guests were greeted with live DJ mixes and treated to the restaurant's signature seafood towers. Surprise pop-up performances by TomCat Trumpet entertained guests as they indulged in

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Laurel Stradford and John Rodgers.

gourmet desserts. Later in the evening, guests moved into The Lounge at Stockton, which was decorated in scarlet red from floor to stage with plush couches and a bronze-finished bar, where Vibe Music Live heated up the evening as the champagne flowed.  Owned by Josh Carl and Joseph de Vito, Stockton Restaurant & Lounge is open Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.; Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. (For more info, click here!)

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Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Sherrill Bodine–past and future Service Club presidents.

Last night's Service Club of Chicago meeting saw the passing of the gavel from outgoing president Tracey Tarantino DiBuono to incoming president Sherrill Bodine, who has accepted a one year term in honor of her dear friend and longtime SC member, the late Lynda Silverman. Tracey delivered a heartfelt speech on her time in office that had the spillover crowd in happy tears. She said, "My heart is full with the joy of connecting on so many personal levels as well as professional. I will cherish these moments and look forward to continued friendships made. I deeply appreciate all of the hard work, determination, coordination, co-operation, and time devoted by all of you. I am proud to stand amongst you. Thank you for your support and kindness." Congrats, with love, to Tracey, Sherrill and all of the hard-working members of this amazing nonprofit!  

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Yes  my Christmas decorations are still upI don't know about you, but I'm feeling a little short-changed on the holidays. It seems like as soon as I got our decor up, it was time for it to come down. Oh, I'm still holding out but am noticing all the lights blinking out around town and it's so sad that people are giving up so soon (Michael Caputo, I'm talking to you!) Anyway, it's staying put for a while longer as it brings such a warm, cheery sparkle to our home. It's not over till the Christmas Tree sings and I don't hear anything yet.

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Hope the New Year has started off in grand style for all of you! I sense a year of change, in a 2ca522a1752988636e9bb269c737f578good way, and I can't wait to see what 2020 brings. Here's hoping for good health, finding joy in every moment (big or small) and discovering something new around every corner.

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P.S.  Please help where you can.

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DIANE VON FURSTENBERG SHARES WORDS OF WISDOM WITH EXECUTIVE’S CLUB CROWD

Plus: True Blue benefits our brave Chicago Police; Ping Pong for Jackson Chance Foundation; Leslie's BIG BD party; Auditorium Theatre Gala; 3Arts Awards Celebration; BMO/Mag Mile Lights Festival with MyEyeDr; American Craft Exhibition party at the Botanic Garden; Top shops for Christmas gifts; DIFFA Chicago's Art for Life; Bear Necessities' first Little Black Dress Luncheon; Chicago Children's Museum gala; Izzy introduces FBRK Impact House, a new home for charities; The one and only Mamie Walton; Sheryl Dyer's love-filled afternoon; James R. Jordan Foundation's "Bags for Kids"'; A knighthood for Joe Monastero; Mpower the Night; The delicious Robert's Pizza and Dough Co.; Money for Funny, Music for Free; Common Threads in the news; O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree; Chicago's top pop-up Christmas bars; An amazing Video; This & That and SOOO much more!

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Fashion and business phenom Diane Von Furstenberg

In 1976, Newsweek named Diane von Furstenberg ‘the most marketable woman since Coco Chanel’. In a one-of-a-kind Executives’ Club of Chicago Signature Series discussion on November 14, fashion mogul Furstenberg shared highlights from her decades long career in fashion and philanthropy during a sold-out luncheon at the Radisson Blu Aqua. Clad in a chic knit leopard print sweater and skirt with black boots, the fashion icon was joined by moderator, Kristina O’Neill, WSJ Magazine, editor and veteran of the New York magazine industry, who conducted the hour long interview. Diane shared her most recent philanthropic work as chair of the fund-raising for the much anticipated Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island in New York City. They discussed the importance of utilizing one’s voice, knowledge and connections to uplift

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Kristina O'Neill, WSJ Magazine, editor.

liberties and freedoms in this country and in particular for women empowerment. Margaret Mueller, ECC president/CEO and Tracie Morris, US Chief HR and Inclusion Officer BMO Financial Group, welcomed the crowd along with new ECC Chief

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A sell-out crowd for the Executives' Club of Chicago's "In Charge with Diane Von Furstenberg" luncheon.

Content and Communications Officer, Eva Penar. Diane has dedicated her life to empowering women all over the world through her philanthropic efforts. She was born of Belgian Jewish parents. Her mother survived Auschwitz, being liberated weighing only 49 pounds. 18 months later, Diane was born. She told the crowd, after her mother suffered in the camp, she never allowed Diane to show fear even going so far as locking her in the closet when she was afraid of the dark. In 1974, Furstenberg introduced the wrap dress that would make her world famous at 23 years of age. By the time she was 28, she had 18 licensing agreements. She shared many words of wisdom with the rapt crowd including the following: 1) "I promise you, the most important relationship you have is with yourself. Once you have that, every other relationship is a plus and not a must." 2) The only thing you have 100% control over is your character. You can lose your health but you never lose your character." 3) "The secret to life is owning it. If you own your

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Diane Von Furstenberg and Kristina O'Neill in convo before a rapt audience.

imperfections, they become an asset and if you own your vulnerability, it becomes your strength." 4) "At least twice a week I wake up feeling like a loser. The only people who don't feel this way are the losers." 5) "Make sure you engage with

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Kristina O'Neill, Eva Penar, ECC Chief Content and Communications Officer, Diane Von Furstenberg.

someone once a week that no one pays attention to. It will expand your universe and theirs."  6) "Serving as a mentor is a nice way to stay relevant as you grow older and it works because you're not a threat to them then."  7) "It's very important that we fight violence, abuse and inequality." 8) "I did an interview and was asked what I wanted to be now, I told them I wanted to be an oracle." She ended her fascinating discussion with this. "If I'm lucky, I'm in the autumn of my life and it's great because in the autumn, the foliage is the most beautiful. It's a wonderful time. I have a lot to give and share." She received thunderous applause and a standing ovation. What a great afternoon! (To learn more about the Executive's Club of Chicago and its upcoming (exciting) speakers' schedule, please click here). (Watch her interesting convo below)

 

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Chicago Police Fndtn. board chair John Robak, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Mary Ann Rose, Chicago Police Fndtn. ED.

The Chicago Police Foundation’s 5th annual True Blue Event was held at the Four Seasons Hotel on November

Officer Wazny and his wife Annie

Officer Adam Wazny and wife Annie.

2. Special guest Adam Wazny, a Chicago police officer whose life was saved by using a Law Enforcement Medical and Rescue kit (LEMAR) donated by the Chicago Police Foundation, was greeted with a standing ovation when he was introduced. Mayor Lori Lightfoot welcomed everyone and thanked supporters. She specifically recognized Officer Wazny’s service to the city, stressing the importance of the

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CPD Honor Guard and Bagpipers.

Chicago Police Foundation’s donation to the CPD. "These kits are critical and living proof that LEMAR works to save lives," Lightfoot said. In addition to exciting silent and live auctions, a DASH Game was  introduced as a new way to engage with guests and raised more donations for the CPD. During the live auction, guests were given the opportunity to bid on four one-of-a-kind ride-alongs with the CPD–in a police squad car, with a marine unit, with a mounted horse

Robin Robinson  Superintendent Eddy Johnson  and his wife  Nakia Fenner Johnson

Robin Robinson, retired Superintendent Eddy Johnson and his wife Nakia Fenner Johnson.

  patrol and in a helicopter. With 325 guests in attendance, the event raised over $500,000 that will fund outreach programs, equipment and additional resources that are not included in the city of Chicago’s budget. Chairman John Robak, COO of Greeley and

rica Hi#3--Member Alton  Executive Director  Mary Ann Rose  and Chairman and CEO of the Magnificent Mile Kimberly Bares

Board member Erica Hilton, Mary Ann Rose (CPF ED) and Kimberly Bares (Chairman/CEO of the Magnificent Mile)

Hansen, thanked the Board of Directors and all the sponsors who continually support the organization. Other VIPs in attendance included Mary Ann Rose (CPF executive director), Kimberly Bares (chairman/CEO Magnificent Mile), Officer Danny Diaz, Arica Hilton (board member), Robin Robinson (media darling and WVON radio host), Eddy Johnson (retired police superintendent) and his wife Nakia Fenner Johnson, among others. Congrats to all involved in this noble effort to support our men and women in blue who put their lives on the line for us. (To donate or learn more about the Chicago Police Foundation, please click here). (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

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Beth Heller  Taylor Kinney  Carrie and Terry Meghie

Beth Heller, Taylor Kinney, Carrie and Terry Meghie (Jackson Chance founders).

More than 600 guests “paddled up” for Jackson Chance Foundation’s  7th annual Ping Pong Ball presented by JOOLA USA on November 14th at the St. Jane Hotel. The event surpassed the nonprofit’s

Ryan and Kelly Dempster

Ryan and Kelly Dempster.

fundraising record by raising more than $450,000 for its mission to remove the financial burden of parking for families with critically ill babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU.) This year’s star-filled Ping Pong Ball was led by an all-star team including co-chair and former Chicago

Sid  Arcot  Sangita  Nanden Naresh (lisle)

Arcot and Sangita Nanden with their tennis champs Sid (L) and Nanden (R).

Cub Ryan Dempster, VIP reception emcee Kye Martin, main event emcee Pat Tomasulo and fundraising chair Ed Kruschka. The annual Ping Pong Ball features everything from a table tennis tournament with celebrities and athletes, to exciting activities like fashion illustrations, edible “selffee” cookies, fun

Adam Hoge  Charles Tillman  Ryan Baker

Adam Hoge, Charles Tillman and Ryan Baker.

Jackson Chance Foundation swag, culinary treats and cocktails including the popular “Parking Fairy” cocktail provided by Mr. Brown's Lounge and Free ReinKye Martin emceed the celebrity ping pong tournament including players

Owl Give Winner Carrie Prather  Ryan Dempster

Owl Give Winner Carrie Prather with Ryan Dempster.

such as Jackson Chance Foundation founders, Carrie and Terry Meghie, Ryan Dempster and his father Wally, Ryan Baker (CBS Chicago) with wife Jessa, Jerry Azumah (former Chicago Bear) with fundraising chair Ed Kruschka, Adam Hoge (WGN-AM) and Pat Tomasulo (WGN-TV) and of course returning champs Susanna Homan (Chicago Magazine) and Eric

Alayna and D.C. Crenshaw.

Alayna and D.C. Crenshaw.

Ferguson (WTMX The Mix.) The bragging rights went to Adam Hoge and Pat Tomasulo as this year’s celebrity tournament champs. During the main event, guests enjoyed a fun evening of mixing and mingling with celebrities, playing table tennis and bidding on unique silent auction items. This

Ed and Karyn Kruschka

Ed and Karyn Kruschka.

year Jason Fishbein won the main event ping pong ball tournament!  In addition, crowd-favorite, top- ranked young pro and NICU alum, Nandan Naresh, and his brother Sid dazzled guests with their table tennis skills. Other celebs picking up a paddle or just joining the fun included Charles Tillman (former Chicago Bear/last

Ryan Chiaverini  Roe Conn  Val Warner

Ryan Chiaverini, Roe Conn and Val Warner.

year’s honorary chair), Taylor Kinney (Chicago Fire), Kelvin Hayden (former Chicago Bear), Lourdes Duarte (WGN-TV), Lou Canellis (Fox Chicago), Angi Taylor (KISS-FM), Pierre Thomas (former New Orleans Saint),

Tali Kogan  Jason Fishbein  Carrie Meghie

Tali Kogan, Jason Fishbein and Carrie Meghie.

Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (ABC 7’s Windy City Live), Roe Conn (WGN-AM), Melissa McGurren (WTMX The Mix) and Mike Berman (NBC Chicago.) Another highlight of the evening was the coveted Owl Give Award presented to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital NICU nurse, Carrie Prather. The public nominated their favorite NICU nurse nationwide to win an all-expense paid vacation and four annual VIP tickets to the Ping Pong Ball for life. (Photos: Francis Son Photography and Marcin Cymmer Photography)

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Happy BD Leslie!

It was a complete takeover of the elegant Marchesa restaurant at 535 N. Wells on Thursday, November 21 when auction maven Leslie Hindman threw a spectacular

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Alan Bulley, Leslie, Don and Maron Hindman, Chuck and me and Suzette Bulley.

birthday party for her 65th with around 120 FOLs (friends of Leslie's) in attendance! Everybody who was anybody was there including the Governor and his MK, Linda Johnson Rice, Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Ken Norgan, Michael Kutza, Mary Lou Gorno, Trish Rooney, Les Coney, Suzette and Alan Bulley, Michael Sneed, Judy Erwin, Don and Maron Hindman,

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Linda Johnson Rice and Marko Iglendza.

Christie Hefner, Helen Melchior and so many others. The party began in the intimate wine room on the lower level. There, a duo sang and played French music as chicly clad guests mixed and mingled. Then the party moved

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Elegant decor at Marchesa.

to the main floor where tables were topped in crystal and silver with gorgeous white flowers. Place cards directed guests to their seats–not happy about being separated from Chuck but was grateful to be included. Loving toasts were presented by her brother Don and her longtime friend Mike Sneed, among others. Everyone sang the praises of this loyal, much loved friend

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Don Hindman, Trish Rooney, Leslie and Les Coney.

before a birthday cake sailed out of the kitchen amid blazing sparklers. Dinner, prepared by Chef Didier Durand, was exquisite, as one would expect from this top rated French restaurant. Desserts were served on the top floor, which is my favorite. There, the decor makes you feel

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Les Coney, Mike Sneed, yours truly and Neal Zucker.

like you're in a 19th century French chateau–all antiques and oil paintings (many from Leslie's auction house). Singer Bradford Newquist, whose real job is Director of Development for the wonderful Gilda's Club, performed hits from the Great American IMG_1205Songbook dressed in a bright red vest, so perfect for the evening. The love in the space was palpable for Leslie whose next chapter, I hope, is filled with all of the joy she's so freely and lavishly given to others. Here's to 65 more Leslie! (Congrats and thanks to Marchesa owners Kathryn Alvera and Jason Clark on yet another great night in their beautiful restaurant)

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32 - Helen Hall Melchior  Charlie Gardner  Patti Eylar  Ed Weil  Pamela Crutchfield

Co-chair Helen Melchior, honorees Charlie Gardner and Patti Eylar and co-chair Pam Crutchfield.

The Auditorium Theatre hosted its annual Fall Gala on November 16 with 240 in attendance. The event raised over $230,000 for the theatre's programming, creative engagement, and

30 - Rich Regan  Patti Eylar  Charlie Gardner

Rich Regan, honorees Patti Eylar and Charlie Gardner.

restoration efforts. The night began with a cocktail reception in the State Ballroom at the Palmer House Hilton, with music provided by students from Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts. Guests continued on to the Palmer

2 - Anais Buneo  April Daly  Amelia Silva

Anais Buneo, April Daley and Amelia Silva.

House's Red Lacquer Room for a three-course dinner featuring a Bibb lettuce salad, filet of beef and a crab cake, and raspberry silk cake. The event included the presentation of the fourth

Paul Marinaro  photo by Brett Beiner

Paul Marinaro performs.

annual Adler & Sullivan Award to Patti Eylar and Charlie Gardner, honoring them for their longtime commitment to the Auditorium Theatre and the arts in Chicago. Gardner, who was the Chair of the Auditorium Theatre Board of Directors from 2016-2018 and is now an Emeritus Director, served as the President and CEO of the Chicago Dock & Canal Trust. Eylar, a former dancer for the Lyric Opera Ballet (later the Chicago City Ballet) and Ballet Chicago, is the co-director of Chicago Ballet Arts and a teacher at the Lou Conte Dance Studio. She joined the Auditorium Theatre's

4 -Diana E. Harris and Dr. Linda Curtis O'Bannon

Diana Harris and Dr. Linda Curtis O'Bannon.

Board of Directors in 2019. Eylar and Gardner were presented with the Adler & Sullivan Award by Rich Regan, Auditorium Theatre CEO, and gala co-chairs Pamela Crutchfield, Helen Melchior and Dia and Edward Weil, Jr.  A

18 - Patti Eylar  Randy Duncan

Honoree Patti Eylar and Randy Duncan

proclamation from Mayor Lori Lightfoot declared November 16, 2019 as "Patti Eylar Day" and "Charles Gardner Day" in their honor. Following the award presentation, guests traveled by bus to the Auditorium Theatre for the performance of Chicago Celebrates Sondheim!, featuring some of Chicago's brightest musical talents performing the legendary composer and lyricist's songs. (Photos by Bob Carl and Brett Beiner)

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2018 3Arts Awardee Christine Pascual  2019 3Arts Awardee Stephanie Diaz at 2019 awards_Photo by Robin Subar

2018 3Arts Awardee Christine Pascual with 2019 Awardee Stephanie Diaz.

3Arts, the Chicago-based nonprofit grant-making organization, awarded 20 Chicago artists with unrestricted grants at the 12th annual 3Arts Awards Celebration, which

3Arts Awardees_Photo by Robin Subar

2019 3Arts Awardees

took place November 4 at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The celebration honored ten 3Arts Awards recipients with $25,000 cash grants, and ten additional artists with $2,000 cash grants through Make a Wave—an unprecedented artist-to-artist giving initiative in which each of the previous year’s 3Arts awardees select another artist to receive a surprise grant, sending a “wave” of support through Chicago’s cultural communities. The 2019

2019 3Arts Awardee and Community Award Recipient Ivelisse Diaz_Photo by Robin Subar

2019 3Arts Awardee and Community Award Recipient Ivelisse Diaz.

recipients of $25,000 3Arts Awards are: Dance artists Laksha Dantran and Jumaane Taylor;

Nejla Yatkin_Photo by Robin Subar

Nejla Yatkin performs.

musicians Sam Trump and Bethany Thomas; teaching artists Ivelisse Diaz and Damon Locks; theater artists Richard Costes and Stephanie Diaz; and visual artists Norman Teague and Santiago X.  The recipients of this year’s Make a Wave grants were selected by 2018 3Arts awardees and were announced at the November 4 event: Rebecca Beachy, Jacinda

Ayodele Drum and Dance_Photo by Robin Subar

Ayodele Drum and Dance team.

Bullie, Laura Crotte, Crystle Diño, Star Dixon, Uriel Gómez, A. Martinez, AJ McClenon, Ciera McKissick,

2018 3Arts Awardee Ben LaMar Gay performs at 2019 awards_Photo by Robin Subar

2018 3Arts Awardee Ben LaMar Gay performs.

Marcela Torres. This year, Make a Wave grants doubled to $2,000 per artist, thanks to the generous partnership of the Siragusa Family Foundation and additional support from the Reva & David Logan Foundation.  3Arts has distributed more than $3.4 million in total funding to more than 900 Chicago artists over the past eleven years and awarded $270,000 on November 4 alone. (Photos by Robin Subar)

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MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo stands beside his company's double-decker bus, that he designed for the BMO/Mag Mile Lights Festival.

The BMO/Magnificent Mile Lights Festival was truly something to behold, especially from the unique perspective Chuck and I got to see it from! Thanks to the generosity of MyEyeDr, we got a ride-along on

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The MyEyeDr team readies for its first Mag Mile Lights Festival parade.

MyEyeDr's first ever appearance in the parade atop it's magnificent, gaily decorated double-decker bus! Decked out in shades of blue, MyEyeDr's signature color, and twinkling lights, the bus (designed by Michael Caputo) was themed "See the Joy" and boy did we ever! The record-breaking crowd didn't seem to mind the drop in temperature to around 38 degrees and were thrilled to receive the blue light wands and flashing

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View down Oak St. from atop the MyEyeDr double-decker bus.

blue shades that the team members were distributing to the crowd. All up and down the Avenue the MyEyeDr members, wearing matching blue jackets, lit up both sides of the street in

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MyEyeDr's Kat Christy and Sofia Damianos.

shades of blue as the bus wound its way up Oak Street, down Michigan Avenue and east on Wacker Drive. The parade culminated with a fireworks display over the Chicago River. It was so exciting to see all the holiday cheer with the young

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Record-breaking crowds for this year's parade!

and young-at-heart dressed in festive attire and wildly waving their hands. MyEyeDr has over 38 offices in the Chicagoland area, providing full-service, comprehensive eye care and a great selection of frames. Please make sure to get in and see them before year's end when the FSA/vision insurance benefits end. If you don't use them, you will lose them as they don't roll over! (For more info on MyEyeDr, click here!) Ho! Ho! Ho!

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Buggie O’Grady (ACE 2019 co-chair), Ashley Blankstein-Delaney (2018-2019 Auxiliary President), Nancy Semerdjian (ACE 2019 Co-Chair and 2019-2020 Auxiliary President).

The Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) celebrated the 35th anniversary of its signature fundraiser the American Craft Exhibition (ACE) with more than 6,000 guests in attendance at the Chicago

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Laura Baring-Gould (winner of ACE 2019 Artistic Expression award) and Marge Gambow (ACE 2019 Staging Chair). 

Botanic Garden. Attendees shopped for unique pieces and luxury collections created by 150 craft artists. The weekend kicked off with the Benefit Preview Party, where 1,000 guests had

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Valerie Golbus (ACE preview party co-chair) and Dr. Joseph Golbus (president, NorthShore Medical Group). 

a sneak peek at the museum-quality artwork. The event raised more than $570,000 that, combined with last year’s total, will provide a cumulative $1.13 million to benefit increased access to mental health services at NorthShore through the new Psychiatric Urgent Care Program and Collaborative ACE 2019 - JH2 -2410 (1)Care Model. These programs aim to reduce wait times for those in need of urgent psychiatric care and to increase access to these services by making them more readily available through primary care physicians. “The number of NorthShore

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Karen and David Dahlquist.

area hospital patients with depression and other mental health issues has skyrocketed in recent years,” said Nancy Semerdjian, ACE co-chair and former chief nursing officer at NorthShore.  ACE is a highly competitive juried show and features hand-crafted work in 12 different media. Though NorthShore does not receive

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Dr. Michael Musacchio and Dr. Najah Musacchio. 

proceeds from artist sales, many artists chose to support NorthShore by participating in the voluntary ‘Craft for a Cause’ program, whereby artists make a contribution to ACE’s

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Dr. Fredrick Miller, Sarajane Giles, Yaffa Kagan and James Diamond.

funding cause. This year’s exhibition was organized by ACE 2019 co-chairs Buggie O’Grady and Nancy Semerdjian and their volunteer planning committee. Next year’s ACE will be October 2-4, 2020 with a Benefit Preview Party on October 1, again at the Chicago Botanic Garden. NorthShore University HealthSystem is an integrated healthcare delivery system consistently ranked as a Top 15 Teaching Hospital in the U.S. The NorthShore system, headquartered in Evanston, IL, includes four hospitals – Evanston, Glenbrook, Highland Park and Skokie (For more info, click here!)

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Kenneth Ludwig shop.

There are lots of beautiful Christmas gift shops around town

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Brimfield

like Mary, Mary (706 N. Dearborn), Brimfield (5219 N. Clark) but, most recently, we visited Kenneth Ludwig at 2217 W. Roscoe. As the charming owner declared when we entered, "Christmas threw up in here!" The shop is filled to the brim with enchanting gifts and Christmas decor. Love these shops and hope you try them ALLLLL!

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DSC_5307 (1)DIFFA/Chicago hosted its 3rd annual art auction, Art for Life Chicago, on October 24 at Venue West. Over 300 guests celebrated the power and beauty of art and raised $110,000 to benefit those living with and DSC_5027vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.  As one of DIFFA/Chicago’s signature events, Art for Life Chicago supports HIV/AIDS education and local service organizations. Guests celebrated emerging and established artists shaping today’s cultural landscape with their visionary artwork. “Each year, we are proud to showcase the artwork of extremely talented artists recognized on both a local and national level,” said Todd Baisch, DIFFA/Chicago board chair. More than 80 pieces of art, from paintings to mixed media works, were donated by artists and collectors and exhibited as part of the DSC_5292silent and live auctions that took place throughout the evening. A distinguished jury of industry 0012_DSC_4967luminaries hand-selected this year’s impressive group of participating artists including well-known creatives Nikko Washington, Gail Mancuso and CJ Hungerman. Prior to doors opening, 60 VIP ticket-holders gathered at an exclusive reception where they mingled with the event’s artists, grant recipients and sponsors. VIP attendees were treated to hand-crafted cocktails DSC_5045and delicious bites while they enjoyed a special sneak preview of the artwork that would be auctioned off later in the evening. 2019 juror Sergio Gomez, participating artist Gail Mancuso, “Off the Wall” artist and DIFFA/Chicago board member Franklin Riley, and DIFFA/Chicago board member Oliver Aguilar provided welcoming 0104_DSC_5208remarks and an overview of some of the night’s most impressive works.  During the main portion of the event, the always popular “Off the Wall” feature, sponsored by Fulton Market Gallery and Mancuso Motorsports, allowed guests to choose their own piece of a larger canvas to take home as a personal keepsake. DJ Greg #Feelgood provided the soundtrack to the evening with libations and food provided by J&L Catering, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Anheuser-Busch. Art for Life Chicago joins additional Art for Life benefits across the U.S. and abroad with a common goal to improve the lives of individuals affected by serious illness. Founded in 1984, DIFFA has granted more than $45 million to hundreds of community-based organizations nationwide.

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Courtney Krupa, Caylei Vogelzang, Bear Necessities Founder/CEO Kathleen Casey.

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation hosted the Little Black Dress Luncheon on November 6 at the

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Jessica Aspen, Dania Lees, Kate Cavataio, emcee Whitney Reynolds.

Skokie Country Club. The Little Black Dress Luncheon brought together women and supporters of Bear Necessities for an afternoon to honor children who are fighting and those who have lost their battle to pediatric cancer. With nearly 100 guests in attendance and donning their best “LBDs,” the event raised $24,000 for pediatric cancer research and programs for those affected. The event was emceed by talk show host Whitney Reynolds, who welcomed guests and shared her connection to Bear Necessities throughout the program. Bear Necessities Founder/CEO

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Beth Robinson and Debra Hermann.

Kathleen Casey inspired guests with the foundation’s

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Bear Hug Ambassador Maddie Coyle speaks at the Little Black Dress Luncheon.

mission to end pediatric cancer while giving hope to families affected. Reynolds introduced 13-year-old survivor and Bear Hug Ambassador, Maddie Coyle, who spoke about her personal Bear Hug experience with the Chicago Cubs. All funds raised will benefit pediatric cancer research grants through Bear

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Beautiful room at the Skokie Country Club.

Discoveries and memories through Bear Hugs. Event sponsors included Marquette Hamlin Group, D’aprile Properties, Midwest Lending and Tony’s Italian Deli & Subs. (BNPCF was founded in 1992 by Casey, after losing her son “Bear” to pediatric cancer. Twenty-six years later, the organization is dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer and to providing hope and support to those who are touched by it. (Photos by Timothy Hiatt)

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Paula Kahn and pantomime

Paula Kahn and friend.

The Chicago Children’s Museum (CCM) held its annual fundraising gala on November 9 in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. The event, co-chaired by

Gala Co-chairs Colleen Kelly  Gomos and William J. Kelley  Jr.

Gala co-chairs Colleen Kelly Gomos and William J. Kelley Jr.

Colleen Kelly Gomos and William J. Kelley Jr., welcomed over 500 guests and raised more than $850,000 to support the museum’s unique child-centered exhibits, community inclusion initiatives and educationally-charged programming. “Each year our Gala helps ensure that

Jason and Erin Pritzker

Jason and Erin Pritzker.

more children have access to art, science, climbing, pretending, exploring and learning,” said Jennifer Farrington, CCM president/CEO. The evening’s theme, Cirque!, invited guests to revel in the wonder of childhood while celebrating the museum’s commitment to Guests enjoy hors d'oeuvres providing opportunities for self-expression, creativity, discovery and hands-on learning to all children, both in the museum and within the community. Guests showed their support by bidding on auction prizes, buying raffle tickets and just enjoying the party. "The funds we raise help Chicago Children’s

Dena Perry and Board Chair Jeffery Perry

Dena Perry and Board Chair Jeffery Perry.

Museum stand as a positive force in the city we love and for the people we serve,” said Jeffery Perry, CCM board chair. Highlights from the evening included aerial silk acrobatics, jugglers and pantomimes and other circus art performers. Guests danced the night away to the music of Rush Street Rhythm, and enjoyed a short film introducing the many programs unique to Chicago Children’s Museum– all in the service of children. The evening's live auction, conducted by David Goodman, brought in an impressive $18,000 bid for the La Dolce Vita package which included a week-long tour of Italy for eight through Amalfi, Rome, and Tuscany. (Mark your calendars now for next year’s event, which will be held on November 14, 2020.)

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Israel "Izzy" Idonije introduces FBRK Impact House.

Israel "Izzy" Idonije, entrepreneur, humanitarian, former NFL player and all-around nice guy, broke ground on the FBRK Impact House at 200 W. Madison Street on November 13. Set to open in March 2020, the 45,000 square-foot space will be the city’s first innovation-focused philanthropy center dedicated to serving and supporting grant makers, family foundations and impact investors. Local foundations, media and notable Chicagoans attended the groundbreaking event, which revealed design plans, reinforced the need for the IMG_0841facility and further discussed the vision for the new space. The event featured remarks from Idonije, as well as Candace Moore, Chief Equity Officer for the City of Chicago, and Angelique Power, President, Field

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Izzy and the Team.

Foundation. FBRK Impact House, founded by Izzy and friends, is the result of a shared vision between FBRK, Field Foundation, Woods Fund, United States Artists and Forefront, with the core desire to unify Chicago’s Impact Community, break down silos, encourage collaboration and provide greater access to opportunities. FBRK Impact House will serve as

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Candace Moore, Chief Equity Officer, City of Chicago, Angelique Power, President The Field Foundation and Izzy.

a membership-based work club with a thoughtfully designed ecosystem to provide a balance of private offices, work space, meeting and conference rooms where impact organizations can work together, collaborate and operate with greater efficiency. “Chicago is filled with wonderful people who are committed to making our city better,” said Idonije. “FBRK Impact House will offer an inviting, transparent environment to foster relationships among organizations — a framework in which the philanthropic community will thrive.” According to the most recent Giving in Illinois report, there

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Izzy–Fired up for Philanthropy!

are more than 5,200 grant-making institutions in the state, managing more than $39 billion in assets. Together, these organizations have reached a giving record of $4.6 billion in 2016 – collectively nearly tripling the amount of giving since 2006. Despite this, challenges for grant-making institutions often include working in isolation, having laborious application and review practices and being intimidating to approach. FBRK Impact House will provide a creative and safe space for these organizations to meet, conceive ideas and collaborate. The FBRK Impact House will be the first space of its kind in the country. “Our

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With Laurie Dimakos and Kelly Speck at reception following announcement.

vision is to create an open, loving community where it is easy to interact with philanthropy,” commented Angelique Power, president of Field Foundation, an anchor tenant of FBRK Impact House. “We’ve created different spaces in the facility to connect – a restaurant, conference rooms, podcast rooms, as well as offering Forefront programming. We are providing various opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from and with each other and to share back-end costs.”

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Hard hat tour with Izzy.

FBRK Impact House will occupy three floors of the 200 W. Madison building owned by Multi-Employer Property Trust (MEPT) advised by BentallGreenOak.  It will include a public work lounge and restaurant on the street-level first floor, with membership access to the offices, lounges and amenities on the second and third floors. A reception followed in the party room organized by Kelly Speck and Laurie Dimakos, among others. (To learn more about FBRK Impact House and to access membership, please click here!)

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Holiday Rock eventThe Museum of Broadcast Communicationswill host a festive Holiday Bash on Friday, December 13 at the Museum, 360 N. State Street. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite pop/rockstar or wear their best ugly Christmas sweater. The evening will include DJ Karaoke, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres,  holiday treats and prizes for best musical performances and best costumes. Proceeds will benefit the Museum's programming. For tickets/more info,click here!  (THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED)

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"Tunneling" with the one and only, Mamie Walton.

Had a fabulous lunch with the one and only Mamie Walton at RL recently. She rivals my favorite model, Carmen dell'Orefice, in looks and glamour with personality plus. She needs her own reality show. I asked her for some beauty tips and she told me she exercises religiously, at the barre of course! It's no wonder she's so limber. And I raced to Saks following

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With Mamie at RL.

lunch to buy the same makeup she uses since her skin is so flawless (DIOR Airflash, you're welcome). She is so involved and curious, it's no wonder she looks like she's 50 at age 91. And no, this isn't a typo. She is much loved and endlessly fascinating. On the day we lunched, it was bitter cold outside but she was wrapped in a light (chic) coat. I asked her if she didn't get cold coming from the Peninsula and she told me no since she used the tunnels. WHAT?! My head snapped around since I'd never knew anything like this existed. Well, she was kind enough to walk me through them (not open to the public, just for deliveries and Mamie!) and it was so cool! You can literally walk completely underground from the Pen to RL. Who knew? Now we all do! Lol!

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Sheryl Dyer at her joyous bridal shower.

Sheryl Dyer celebrated her bridal shower with loving friends on Sunday, November 17 in the uber-chic Millennium Park Room at the Peninsula Hotel where a roaring fire mirrored the warm and loving vibes. Guests

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Guests signed a photo of Sheryl and her fiance Joe Schmidt.

included hosts Yvette Cusack, Tracey Tarantino and Mary Pat Burns along with Greg Hyder and Jim Smith, Sherrill Bodine, Myra Reilly, David Nguyen and Duc Ho, Maria Zec, Sherry Lea Holson, Dr. Shari Snow, Leslie Zentner, Bonnie Ricard, Maxine Tropp and moi. Sheryl will be walking down the aisle with Joe Schmidt, Saint Patrick High School president, on Saturday, December 28. Here's to a lifetime of love, good health and happiness! They are just the cutest lovebirds!

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With Frank "Gator" Robb and Deloris Jordan, founder James R. Jordan Foundation.

The James R. Jordan Foundation (JRJF) hosted its annual “Bags For Kids” cornhole tournament fundraiser to help launch the next generation of leaders. Held on Nov. 14 at the Palmer House Hilton, the event benefited JRJF, a nonprofit that works with schools in Chicago’s under-served communities to provide children a pathway out of poverty through supportive

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Frank "Gator" Robb and Betsy Shepherd.

networks and academic opportunities such as JRJF educational programs including S.T.E.A.M (science, technology, engineering, art and math)

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Art Norman and Deloris Jordan.

and Family Space Camp trips. “This special fundraising event shines a light on the importance of our mission to level the playing field and create opportunities for children so they can achieve their full potential,” said Deloris Jordan, JRJF president/founder. “This year’s Bags For Kids featured a special guest appearance by Frank Robb, the man responsible for capturing the famous “Humboldt Park Alligator” affectionately named “Chance the Dsc-0206_origSnapper” by Chicagoans this summer. Robb, an avid cornhole player, took photos with guests and competed in the tournament. Robb said, “I truly IMG_0925believe being exposed to STEM-based programs early in my life led me to the career I love today. I applaud the James R. Jordan Foundation for its work with Chicago youth and recognize the tremendous impact it will have on their future," he said. The winning team will be recognized with a customized plaque mounted at Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse. Dsc-0123_orig A silent auction included a piece of custom artwork featuring a one of a kind “Michael Jordan” serigraph by artist LeRoy Neiman signed by Jordan. Additional auction items included a 20-person penthouse suite for the Bulls vs. L.A. Clippers home game on December 14; a Zach LaVine signed Bulls jersey; a Frank Thomas signed baseball bat; dinner in the Chicago White Sox private owner’s dining room and front row seats on the first baseline; 200 level tickets for the Bulls vs. Charlotte Hornets home game on December 13 and fine jewelry and other exciting items. JRJF’s longtime supporter Art Norman, special contributor to NBC 5 News, served as the emcee.

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Joe Monastero, soon to be honored.

Congrats in advance to Joe Monastero, who will be honored with a knighthood by the Consul General of Italy, Giuseppe Finocchiaro, for his continued service and support of the Italian community. The ceremony will take place on December 10 at the Italian Consulate Institute. Congratulazioni Sir Joe!

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Adrienne Weiss Martha Melman and Molly Melman

Adrienne Weiss, Martha Melman and Molly Melman.

Metropolitan Family Services hosted Mpower the Night, a gala that attracted over 500 supporters on November 2 at the Radisson Blu Aqua. The event raised $1.27 million to help MFS

ABC 7 Community Relations Director Diana Palomar and James Gilliam (both Metropolitan Board Members)

Board members James Gilliam and Diana Palomar.

provide a wide variety of services (including counseling, legal assistance, mental health services, early learning, after school and job readiness, etc.) designed to benefit children and

Altgeld Youth Leadership Program participants

Altgeld Youth Leadership Program participants.

families across Chicago and Cook and DuPage Counties. Guests celebrated 162 years of “Mpowering” families with ABC 7’s Alan Krashesky as emcee. Highlights of the event included the presentation of The Family of the Year Award to the Tony Hunter Family for its outstanding philanthropic

The Tony Hunter Family

The Tony Hunter Family.

leadership in empowering Chicago-area families. Additional highlights included testimonials from the Young Fathers Program and the Altgeld Youth Leadership

ABC 7 Anchor Alan Krashesky emceed the Mpower the Night Gala

ABC 7 anchor Alan Krashesky served as emcee.

Program participants and leadership from the Metropolitan Peace Academy and Domestic Violence services. The gala was co-chaired by Richard Price, executive chairman of Mesirow Financial. MFS empowers families to learn, to earn, to heal, to thrive. Part mentor, part motivator, part advocate, since 1857 Metropolitan Family Services has been the engine of change that empowers Chicago-area families to reach their greatest potential and positively impact their communities.

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Robert Garvey and Dana Hokin Garvey at Robert's Pizza.

Robert's Pizza and Dough Co. isn't exactly new, it opened on May 17, but it was new to us until recently. When we found this charming spot on the river at 465 N. McClurg Ct., we were happy IMG_1215 to see its affable co-owner and pizza maverick Robert Garvey hanging out at the bar with customers. He and his charming wife, Dana Hokin Garvey, have been perfecting their/his delicious pizza recipes for a Untitledlong, long time–beginning first with a restaurant at the family owned Bitter End Yacht Club, that was lost during the last hurricane but is in the rebuilding process. Robert told me he has tried literally over 1000s of recipes before landing on his top 13 that includes ingredients IMG_1161like carmelized onions, house-made pepperoni and sausage, Brussels sprouts and bacon, seafood, fennel, duck, the classic and more. The house-made meatballs will give you nighttime cravings. When the pizza restaurant was located at the Bitter End Yacht Club, even Virgin Group's Richard Branson couldn't resist serving Robert's pizzas at his daughter's rehearsal dinner! We highly recommend this spot, that in the spring/summer, will also have an outdoor patio and space for docking boats. (Dine in, carry out or delivery, www.robertspizza.com , 312.265.1328, they take reservations too!)

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Some of Actors Training Center’s faculty and students: Ramman Takhsh, Adam Goldstein,Wanda, Becky Blomgren, Spencer Rosin, Emma Noll, Sabrina Schoenberg, Bella Andre and Chole Schueller.

Actors Training Center (ATC) hosted its annual fall fundraiser, Money for Funny, Music for Free, at Viper Alley on November 3 in Lincolnshire. This family friendly comedy and musical event benefited ATC’s scholarship and building fund. Legendary local drag queen Wanda greeted guests and emcee/comedian Tim Soszko welcomed the audience along with

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ATC’s newest student, Bella Andre, with one of its first students, Ulises Acosta, sing “Shallow" accompanied by The Dueling Pianos.

Carole Dibo,  ATC founder/ED. Soszko introduced ATC students from both the musical theatre and improv classes who wowed the audience with their skills. Ulises Acosta, one of ATC’s first students spoke of how ATC is more than a place to be

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ATC's Board of Directors.

taught. He shared the moving story of how ATC provided him with more than just emotional support during a critical phase of his teenage years but also helped him find legal support and financial assistance. He said “I would not be here if it were not for Carole and all those at ATC.” Carole Dibo added, “It was never how do we tell these students they cannot come but how do we get these students the scholarships they need.” Wanda then returned to the stage to perform with Dueling Pianos leading the audience in sing-a-longs including a special performance of the song “Shallow” performed by Acosta and Bella Andre, one of ATC’s newest students.

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Tamron Hall and Common Threads' founding CEO Linda Novick O'Keefe.

The team at Common Threads are killin' it in the news these days! Founding CEO Linda Novick O'Keefe appeared on the Tamron Hall Show on November 27 with four of the kids who recently went through the nonprofit's healthy eating program. They spoke about how the program has helped them and shared some tips on how to have a healthy holiday season. And Chef Art

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Chef Art Smith in Parade Mag.

Smith, CT co-founder along with his husband Jesus Salgueiro, had a great feature in Sunday's Parade Magazine titled "Life is Sweet." In it, he spoke about his inspirations (his grandmother and mother), and his first talent (a piano player), and his motto "There are no angry people, just hungry people." He also shares the recipe for his famous 12-layer Hummingbird cake recipe! (Find it here!) Congrats Art, Linda, Jesus and Common Threads, a fabulous national healthy cooking and nutrition program for kids in under-served communities.

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Clear

Our Balsam Hill Silverado Slim Flip Tree. (Also changes to color and a combo with a dimmer.)

I know some would say it's too soon, but our Christmas decor has been up for quite a while now and we're loving every minute of it. I posted a video of Chuck setting up our new Balsam Hill Silverado Slim Flip Tree (watch video here) and I'm telling you, it's

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Part of balcony decor.

changed our lives. We have struggled with fake (and real) trees, falling apart in too many pieces, failing light strands and so much more for so long, that I was more than ready for change. When we dragged our old one out of storage and it, yet again, failed to light, I almost threw it over the balcony. Coincidentally, this was the same day the Balsam Hill catalog arrived (it was almost

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Come on in!

like they knew). I flipped through it and thought the trees looked nice but it wasn't until I came across the flip tree that I became laser focused. I watched their installation video online and was immediately hooked. When it arrived, all it needed was a little branch fluffing to IMG_0984 make it look like the Christmas miracle that it is. Every single ornament fit and the branches sweep almost to the floor. I couldn't love it more. Not gonna lie, it was a little pricey but it has a three year warranty so my conscience is clear. We have four small trees on the balcony too, but all I need from them is the glow so I'm good there. Christmas is the happiest time of the year for me. As early as I can remember, I've been enchanted by the decor and it only gets stronger with each passing year. I hope it's the same for you!

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Christmas pop upsAnd, thanks to Eater Chicago, for compiling this excellent list of some of Chicago's top pop-up Christmas bars! I highly approve and recommend! Here's the list! Ho! Ho! Ho! 

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Post-thanksgivingHere's hoping everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! We all have so much to be grateful for. I'm thankful for Chuck, my family, sweet Rooney, having our health and food on the table and so much more. Every day, I give thanks, not just on Turkey Day but every day. And to you, I'm forever grateful to have you dear readers along for the ride. I hope you enjoy this newsletter as much as I love bringing it to you.

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. This is the Belgian Malinois, the same breed as Conan the Hero Dog that helped take down al-Baghdadi. Unbelievable. Baghdadi didn't have a chance. Lol!

 

 

 

 

   

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CHICAGO LIGHTS: AN ART EXHIBIT THAT’S ALL HEART

ILLUMINATE 900 SPARKLES ON THE MAG MILE; GATEWAY FOR CANCER RESEARCH'S CURES GALA; LSCRF'S FALL BENEFIT LUNCHEON; YOUNG AT HEART'S SILVER PAWS GALA; FRIENDS OF LA RABIDA CELEBRATION; WINGS HOSTS CONDOLEEZZA RICE AT ANNUAL LUNCHEON; PARTYSLATE CELEBRATES 3; A WALK FOR THE BEAR; BEST HOLIDAY POP-UP BARS; 3ARTS AWARDS CELEBRATION; SHERYL AND JOE MAKE IT OFFICIAL; CHRISTMAS DECORATING; A JORDAN THANKSGIVING; HEARTWARMING VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

Chicago Lights creator/photographer Abigail Zoe Martin, husband Leonardo and familyIt was a dream come true for acclaimed British photographer Abigail Zoe Martin when her passion project, Chicago Lights, presented in collaboration with White Color Productions and Agency H5, opened at the Zhou B Art Center on Friday, November 16. Since Abigail moved here from London three years ago, with Leonardo (her Kathleen Kenahan Henson in front of her photohandsome financial executive husband) and two beautiful teenage children, she has been quietly photographing people of interest. It began as a way to get to know the city and its people better but it grew into something much, much bigger. On her blog (chicagostoriesblog.com), before she put the Celebrity Chef Jamie Laurita and hubby Rich Lane in front of his photoexhibition together, she said she wanted to "create a space where portraits and quotes from people of all colors, economic levels, religions and ethnicities stand side by side, expressing their common humanity in a dignified way, a show With Zhou B Art Center co-owner ShanZuo Zhou in front of my portraitabout joy and the things we love." Following the night of the audio/visual exhibition of 81 notable and some not so notable Chicagoans, she expressed herself this way. "I am just coming up for air after that sparkly and magical evening. The sheer scale and Izzy Idonije and cute girlfriend Jatnna Toribio in front of his photodiversity of the event was so very exciting. The friendliness was amazing. All sorts of people were chatting to each other and it was so comfortable. It was exhilarating and felt so loving. I'm so thrilled that the idea of kindness and community permeated the room and that Former SNL star Tim Kazurinskyeveryone felt it. That for me is a perfect world."  I was fortunate to have been photographed by Abigail back in August….I was hoping to either shoot in Washington Park or in the gardens in front of our building but the weather didn't cooperate so we shot it in the lobby Peter Au, cute friend, Cynthia Au, Jon and Andrew Landanof my building. Rooney was just as happy being inside since he didn't want his little top hat to get wet. Abigail is a master at deep diving into people's characters. After she left, I felt like I'd been through a great therapy session. She Singer/songwriter Kiara Lanier in front of her enigmatic photoknows bull-sh_t when she sees it which is why it wa
s such an honor to have my photo included with so many wonderful personalities like celebrity chef
Jamie Laurita, Israel Idonije, Nan Giordano and her wonderful Giordano Dance Chicago dancers, Bela Gandhi, Tarrah Cooper, CM Punk, Chef Curtis Performers, exhibit subjects, Essence Walker and Carina SheroDuffy, Chef Bruno Abate, Kathleen Kenahan Henson (whose H5 Agency helped produce the event), Trisha Rooney, Tim Kazurinsky, the Zhou B brothers (ShanZuo ZhouShi and DaHuang ZhouShi), Lieutenant Governor-elect Juliana Stratton, Duchess Darling Shear (cabaret star who performed two Abigail Zoe Martin, Jason Brett and Dr. Lauren Streicherdramatic numbers), Kiara Lanier (whose songs made everyone weep with joy), Father Michael Pfleger, Secretary of State Jesse White, Dr. Lauren Streicher and her husband Jason Brett,  Essence Walker, Dr. Theri Raby, JoJo Baby, Giordano Dance Chicago's Nan Giordano had a whole wall dedicated to her talented companythe Mayor and so many more. There were names you recognized and those you didn't–they included tattoo artists, college students, small business owners, bartenders, a professional wrestler, a professor, a beekeeper, a firefighter, a doorman and more. Chef Bruno Abate in front of his exhibition photo The show is described as a raw unfiltered conversation with Chicagoans that illuminates the incredible kindness Martin found. Each photograph and conversation represents the :ecelectic and diverse cross-section of people: Martin met, all with :a wonderful inner light and a common thread of integrity, compassion Nina Mariano with Jason Chan in front of his photoand empathy." One of my favorites, Liz Dozier, former educator and star of the CNN series "Chicagoland," posed for her photograph on the front porch of a favorite student who died due to senseless gang/gun violence. The neighborhood was so dangerous, she had to have spotters on the street on the Chef Curtis Duffy and Jennifer McClain (Duffy was a subject in the exhibit)lookout. The night was filled with laughter, new connections, lots of Iphone photos, wine from Cream Wine Company, cocktails from CH Distillery, light bites from LM Catering and pizza from Connie's (thanks to Nina Mariano). Thank you Abigail for including me in this incredible exhibition. Every photo comes with an inspiring sound-bite from Abigail's int
erview with each subject, to hear any or all of the comments,
click here and to read Rick Kogan's wonderful Tribune column about the installation and Abigail's amazing process, click here!  On Abigail's Judge Erika Orr (R) and friend in front of her portrait Insta-feed, she summed the show up this way, "The main ingredients of this show are kindness and integrity. Let's spread as much of that as we can around the world and create some ripples." For sure, she achieved her goal and created not just ripples, but an entire ocean of kindness. (A coffee table book is in the works and photographs are available for sale at info@abigailzoemartin.com) (Come to the closing night party for the book at Zhou B Art Center on Jan. 8 and view the photos for the last time!)


Make-A-Wish child enters 900 Shops with SantaThe 900 Shops were the first to spread holiday cheer on North Michigan Avenue when they hosted the 3rd annual Illuminate 900 on November 15. The mall's already beautiful atrium was transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a storybook tree-lighting, real-life toy soldiers, holiday performances, caroling With WGN's Ana Belaval (emcee) and David Murgakiddies, festive food and drink and other seasonal surprises. The event was an arts-forward, community wide kick off to the holiday season and FREE to the public (suggested donations, that amounted to over $10,000, benefited Make-A-Wish Illinois). Throughout the evening, holiday performances enchanted guests with the Alicia Skruba (900 Shops marketing/business manager), Tom Kehoe and Julie Barrishhighlight being Santa's (Chris Spears–the BEST Santa EVER!) arrival to light the 54-ft. tall tree, which was heralded by the Chicago Children's Choir singing "Here Comes Santa Claus." Once in front of the tree, standing with a darling Make-A-Wish child, 8-year-old Olivia, and the evening's host committee, Santa led the countdown to light the tree. As the tree lighted up and the streamer cannons exploded, With Alicia Skruba and committee members Mark Olley (front), David Sanchez (L)Azeeza Khan, Julie Barrish and D.C. Crenshaw.beloved vocalist Ava Fain and her equally talented sister Joya Fain sang classic holiday favorites like "Man With the Bag" and "All I Want for Christmas is You." Other highlights of the evening included the New Music School Choir caroling at the main entrance; Winged Harmony (a professionally trained singer) dressed as an angel serenading With Jon Landan, Tracey Tarantino, Nina Mariano, Andrew Landan and Helen Berkun guests; dancers (ZZAZZettes) from ZZAZZ Productions dressed ala the Rockettes in red velvet and white fur-trimmed costumes dancing their little hearts out; handsome male models from 10 Model Management dressed as toy soldiers greeting guests; The (darling) Real Elf (Tommy Holl) exuberantly interacting with attendees; Mrs. Claus; lush winter wonderland decor by Kehoe With cute guests Nika Clark, Jeanne Sparrow and Brenda ArelanoDesigns; cooking decorating at Sur La Table; hors d'oeuvres from the brand new Aster Hall; Ruth Page Center for The Arts dancers and so much MORE! Alicia Skruba, 900 Shops marketing and business development manager, said, "Illuminate 900 has always been our Holiday Love Letter to Chicago. We couldn't be more pleased to be able to create a moment in time Make-A-Wish Family with Santa and the ZZAZZettes where Chicagoans from throughout the city come together to be reminded of the magic and wonder of the holidays. And no better partner than Make-A-Wish Illinois, as they share their own kind of healing magic throughout the year." A series of 900 Shops events will further benefit Chicago Children's ChoirMAWI during the holiday season with a goal of $40,000. Host Committee members included Ana Belaval (emcee), Mario Tricoci, Tom Kehoe, Julie Barrish, Nancy Resnick, David Sanchez, Pierre Lockett, D.C. Crenshaw, Ceta Walters, Jivesh Toor, Tracey Tarantino, Mark Olley, David Murga, Samantha Thomas, Josephine Lee, Ava Fain and moi among others. Over 1,600 people turned out for the event that took place on all six levels of The 900 Shops! Ho! Ho! Ho! This was the VERY best way to kick off the holidays!


Dr. Stacie J Stephenson and Richard J Stephenson present Gateway's annual accomplishmentsGateway for Cancer Research (Gateway), a nonprofit dedicated to transformational cancer research, raised $4.1 million at its annual CURES Gala, “The Greatest Gateway” with over 750 attendees. Inspired by the Oscar-nominated film, The Greatest Showman, the event was held on Saturday, October 20 at the Sheraton Grand Celebration at The Greatest GatewayChicago, 301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL and featured a night of unparalleled entertainment and surprises “under the big top.” The event was presented and sponsored by Richard J Stephenson, founder and chairman of Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) and Gateway for Cancer
Circus performers at The Greatest GatewayResearch and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, CTCA Chairman of Functional Medicine and Director Gateway for Cancer Research Board. Actress and comedian Melissa Peterman, best known for her roles in the television comedy series Reba and Baby Daddy, emceed the night’s festivities beginning Acrobats perform at The Greatest Gatewaywith a Broadway style performance by 11 year old, America’s Got Talent’s youngest finalist and Golden Buzzer winner, Angelica Hale and universal recording artist Fernando Varela, who has stunned audiences as a classic modern day tenor. Michael Lohmeier, Roxanne Corkin, Ainan Tan, Jenene Ebstein, Mo GarberJonathan Cullen, who has wowed audiences as Elder Price in the first national tour of “The Book of Mormon," performed a show-stopping medley from The Greatest Showman, alongside America’s Got Talent finalist and Canadian Songwriters Award winner for Best Adult Contemporary/Pop Song 2018, Stacey Kay, Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson with Leilani and Brian McKnightwho sang the Oscar-nominated song “This Is Me.”  The London Essentials, a five-piece acoustic party band, continued the thrills, followed by performances from Pia Toscano (American Idol Finalist and star of the new Netflix show “Westside"); electrifying pianist, recording artist and composer William Joseph;  international virtuoso violinist Caroline Gateway Founder Richard J Stephenson and Gateway Board of Directors Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson with Gateway Chief Development Officer Michael Burton Campbell and R&B musical legend Brian McKnight who took the stage and delivered a memorable performance before Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra drew the night to an end with an energetic, show-stopping grand finale.“The Greatest Gateway” showcased breakthrough clinical cancer trials funded by Gateway, including Dr. Nathan Robison of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and his patient, Peighton Bailey. Dr. Robison is conducting a trial on low-grade gliomas and genetic mutations with childhood cancer. Using precision medicine, this multi- The Greatest Gateway at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Ballroominstitutional trial studies the effects of MEK162, an inhibitor in tumor growth pathways. Peighton and her mom Jennifer shared her inspiring story, including the success of MEK162 in helping to shrink Peighton’s tumor and her dream to someday become a doctor and help other children facing cancer. Guests indulged in a custom culinary experience created by premier chef Markus Ford. (A personal favorite!) (Bob & Dawn Davis Photography)


LSCRF Chair Hollis Hanover, Fall Benefit Luncheon Co-Chairs Wendy Heltzer and Sheri Whitko, LSCRF Vice-Chair Meredith Soren FreeseThe Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation (LSCRF) hosted its 33rd Anniversary Fall Benefit Luncheon with featured keynote speaker Jill Kargman on October 22 at the Hilton Chicago. Second City Chicago writer, actress, comedian and producer Maggie Smith served as emcee of the Academy Awards-themed event, “The Pink Ribbon Awards.” With more than 1,000 attendees, the event raised more than LSCRF Founding Members receive The Pink Ribbon Awards Founders Award$975,000 to help advance the treatment of breast cancer in the hopes of one day finding a cure. The luncheon, co-chaired by Wendy Heltzer and Sheri Whitko, began in the Normandie Lounge with the PURSE-SUE THE CURE™ purse auction sponsored by Luxury Garage Sale which Lisa Saul, Jill Kargman, Maggie Baczkowskifeatured more than 200 new, collectable and kids’ handbags from preeminent retailers, upscale boutiques and private collections. The event then moved to the Grand Ballroom for the program and The Pink Ribbon Awards. Recipients were: two-time breast cancer survivor, Elizabeth Kirk, who received the “Warrior” award; Nora M. Hansen, MD, Chief of Breast Surgery of Northwestern Memorial Candace (1)Hospital received the “Hero” award and the Best Documentary Short Film award went to Grace. Breast cancer survivors in attendance and the founders of LSCRF were also bestowed with awards. The ceremony was followed by a Q&A with actress and author Jill Kargman, who recently underwent a double mastectomy due to the CHEK2 gene. Event proceeds will support innovative breast cancer research, fellowships and educational programs at Northwestern Medicine and the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.


Pat and Vince Foglia with YAH staff Dawn Kemper, Jen Porter and Sandy BacinoYoung at Heart Pet Rescue hosted its signature fundraiser, the Silver Paws gala, themed "Senior Pets are Hidden Treasure." Close to 300 guests raised over $166,000 for homeless senior pets, which equals a lot of lives saved in the coming year! A dozen Young at Heart ambassador dogs loved all of the attention from each and every guest, and they all napped like champs the next Guests of honor, John and Rita Canningday from all of the excitement! During the gala, guests laughed, cried and then laughed some more over the joy of seeing pets adopted and the heartbreak that some are still waiting for forever homes. Junior volunteers Alix Burkhardt and Anishi Patel presented an original play,"Island of Young at Heart, " that featured some of YAH's wonderful adoptable senior dogs. The inaugural Heart of Gold award was presented to Rita and John "Island of Young at Heart" performance presented by junior volunteersCanning for their support and incredible advancement of the welfare of older pets. The organization's Fund-a-Need video, produced by Erik Porter, highlighted just a few of the stories of senior pets that YAH has recently helped. Dawn Kemper, founder/executive director, announced that in the coming year, a new adoption center will open in Woodstock, Ill. in the spring. (Photos by Embracing Grace Photography) Just love this "no-kill" nonprofit and all the good they do to support senior dogs and cats. (To learn more click here!


Christine O'Reilly-Riordan received the Community Support AwardMore than 450 guests came together in support of La Rabida Children’s Hospital at the 2018 Friends of La Rabida Awards Celebration, held at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago on November 15.  As La Rabida’s largest fundraising event, the gala provides great awareness about La Rabida’s important role in the Chicago children’s medical community in maintaining and improving the quality of life for each of its patients with complex conditions, disabilities and chronic Richard Burridge Sr. --Lifetime Achievement recipient illness, regardless of ability to pay. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner and the awards ceremony. In the live and silent auctions, guests had the opportunity to bring home vacation packages, VIP tickets to the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls and at-home dining experiences. Ravi Baichwal Brenda Wolf (L) and Zoie Familyof ABC 7 Chicago served as the evening’s emcee. Notable guests in attendance included Richard Burridge, Sr., Chairman Emeritus of RMB Capital, who received the Lifetime of Service award and Christine O’Reilly-Riordan, Vice President-Community Relations/Executive Director of Chicago White Sox Charities, who received the Community Support award. The event raised over $725,000 to support the organization.  (Photos by Robert Carl)

Rita Canning (WINGS chair), George McCaskey (Chicago Bears chairman) and Rebecca Darr (WINGS exec. dir.)WINGS Program Inc., the largest anti-domestic violence agency in Illinois, hosted the 66th U.S. former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at its Road to Freedom luncheon on November 2 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago. WINGS provides shelter and family support to people fleeing domestic violence, but also provides services and education to break the cycle of abuse. The luncheon featured a Q&A session with Greg Brown (Motoroloa Solutions CEO), Condoleeza Rice (former Secretary of State)Secretary Rice and moderator Greg Brown, CEO of Motorola Solutions, to discuss her book Democracy: The Long Road to Freedom. Mayor Emanuel also attended to speak about his support of WINGS and the importance of their acceptance of children in their shelters unlike others in Illinois. The luncheon raised over $1 million through individual and corporate sponsorships and day of donations. “Even though 1 in 3 women are victims of domestic violence, 1 in 3 people think even a discussion of this is taboo,” said Rebecca Darr, WINGS CEO.  “We are very excited about contributions made through this great event, but we have this conversation all year long.  It costs 1.2 million dollars each year just to keep one of our shelters running.  Our team never stops fundraising and looking for in-kind donations.”  To help WINGS break the cycle of domestic violence, visit www.wingsprogram.com to make a donation, or visit www.wingsprogram.com/in-kind-gift-donations/ for a list of critical needs for in-kind donations.


PartySlate founder Julie Roth Novack thanks supportersHuge congrats to Julie Roth Novack and her incredible PartySlate that just celebrated its 3-year anniversary on November 9! Chicago’s top event professionals and tastemakers gathered at Venue West to celebrate PartySlate and the birthday of Julie, PartySlate co-founder/CEO. PartySlate's Julie Roth Novack with family and friendsPaulette Wolf Events and Erin McDonald Design created a luxe emerald green and copper palette, filling the room with incredible balloon installations, towering florals, and elegant food stations from some of the city’s top restaurants. Kent Drake Photography captured every celebratory moment, including the always-packed dance floor, thanks to Taylor Pace Orchestra and Flow Entertainment. Since its founding in Chicago three years ago, PartySlate (a digital platform designed for leading event professionals to share their work with the world) has launched in Los Angeles, Dallas, New York City, and San Francisco, with Palm Beach scheduled for later this month. You go GURLLLLL!!!!


Candace 6Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation hosted its 5th annual  A Walk for the Bear Costume Walk on Sunday, October 21 in Lincoln Park.  A Walk for the Bear brings together family, friends and supporters of Bear Necessities to honor the children who are currently fighting and those who have lost their battle to cancer. With Candace 1nearly 500 participants in attendance, the event successfully raised more than $58,000 for pediatric cancer research. This spooktacular, family-friendly event was hosted by 103.5 KISS-FM’s Rufio. The warm-up was led by professional boxer and WBC Candace 2 Continental Americas 2017 Champion, Mike Jimenez, and featured tricks and sweet treats along the 3-mile trail. Following the walk, attendees enjoyed a box lunch provided by Mariano’s and participated in a variety of Halloween activities, including a costume contest and pumpkin decorating. The Kids Tent featured face painting, a bounce house, balloon animals and ghoulish games and crafts.


Screen Shot 2018-11-15 at 8.19.36 PMThis sounds almost too good to be true! Elf'd Up, a holiday pop-up bar now open in Wrigleyville ( 3485 N. Clark, aka Stretch Bar & Grill). This new high-energy, holiday pop-up bar will run through the end of January. Decorated as a full-blown tribute to the movie "Elf", the venue will offer guests themed cocktails and seasonal menu items, ornament decorating nights, a complimentary Santa Cookie Service daily at 10 p.m., The world's best cup of Naughty Coffeea "Get Elf'd Up" happy hour that will benefit Compassion, DJs playing holiday mashups and more. Elf'd Up will be decorated from floor to ceiling with over 200 elves of all shapes and sizes, a 10-foot Christmas tree, an upside down Christmas tree, wreath chandeliers, strands of colored lights, a snow Santa Baby pop-up holiday bar at 3505 N. Clark machine, specific tributes to the movie that will include figurines, wall quotes, snowflakes, Schylling Jester Jack in the Boxes, condiment carriers filled with maple syrup and candy canes, and other holiday decor. OH MY!! See YOU there! (www.elfdup.com) And you won't want to miss Santa Baby (3505 N. Clark, aka Deuces and the Diamond Club), right next door (my favorite holiday pop-up!!), since the lights can probably be seen from outer space! (Peek inside here!) Catch them both for a full dose of holiday cheer (through Jan. 6)!


3Arts Awardees: [Back row] Hương Ngô, Brittany “BrittanE” Edwards, Dianna Frid, Leida “Lady Sol” Garcia. [Front row] Christine Pascual, Anna Martine Whitehead, Elgin Bokari T. Smith, T. Ayo Alston and Sandra Delgado.3Arts, the Chicago-based nonprofit grant-making organization, was honored to award 20 Chicago artists with unrestricted grants at the 11th annual 3Arts Awards Celebration, that took place on November 5 at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The celebration recognized 3Arts Award recipients along with recipients from Make a Wave—an unprecedented artist-to-artist giving initiative. The evening honored ten artists with 3Arts executive director Esther Grisham Grimm with Community Award recipient Sandra Delgado$25,000 cash grants and ten additional artists with $1,000 grants as part of the peer-to-peer giving program, Make A Wave. 3Arts has distributed more than $3 million in total funding to more than 600 Chicago artists over the past eleven years and awarded $260,000 on this night. “Championing Chicago artists is a privilege like no other. We are thrilled to present our awardees with opportunities that they profoundly deserve,” said Esther Grisham 3Arts co-chairs and speakers: Remberto Del Real, Cat Tager, Jess Godwin, Esther Grisham Grimm, Erryn CobbGrimm, executive director of 3Arts. “Last year’s launch of Make a Wave made it abundantly clear that there is nothing quite as exciting as witnessing artists offering support to other artists by paying it forward and encouraging them to dream big.” This year’s 3Arts Awards celebration featured The 2018 3Arts Awards celebration featured a performance by past awardee and wheelchair dancer Kris Lenzoperformances by past awardees including wheelchair dancer Kris Lenzo and operatic baritone Will Liverman. The event was led by co-chairs Erryn Cobb (3Arts Board of Directors and CEO of Fetch Integrated Marketing Communications), Remberto Del Real (3Arts Board of Directors and Managing Director of Make-A-Wave Award recipients: Carolyn O’Brien, Krystal Grover-Webb, Nura Aly, Silvia Gonzalez, Jo de Presser (Marlon Billups), Ana SantosPersonal and Business Banking Marketing for BMO Harris Bank), and Jess Godwin (singer/songwriter and 2016 3Arts Award recipient). The 2018 Make a Wave recipients are: Nura Aly (violinist, educator, and dancer); Silvia Inés Gonzalez (interdisciplinary artist and educator); Krystal Grover-Webb (visual artist and educator); Jo de 3Arts awardee Brittany “BrittanE” Edwards and Executive Director Esther Grisham GrimmPresser, aka Marlon Billups (DJ); Joelle Lamarre (soprano, teacher, and playwright); Jenna M. Lyle (experimental musician and performer); Krystel V. McNeil (actor); Gonzalo Escobar Mora (visual artist and experimental filmmaker); Carolyn O’Brien (composer); and Ana Santos (actor). The recipients of the 2018 3Arts Awards are: T. Ayo Alston, 3Arts/Southwest Airlines Awardee; Anna Martine Whitehead, 3Arts/O’Neill & Williams Family Awardee; Brittany “BrittanE” The Silverman Group’s Amanda Berrios and 3Arts Awardee Leida “Lady Sol” Ga
rcia EdwardsBen LaMar Gay, 3Arts/Stan Lipkin & Evelyn Appell Lipkin Awardee; Leida “Lady Sol” Garcia, 3Arts/RH, Restoration Hardware Awardee; Elgin Bokari T. Smith, 3Arts/Denise & Gary Gardner Awardee; Sandra Delgado, 3Arts;  Community Awardee; Christine Pascual, 3Arts/Lakeside Bank Awardee; Dianna Frid, 3Arts/Chandler Family Awardee and Hương Ngô, 3Arts/Reva & David Logan Foundation Awardee. (Robin Subar Photography)


Newly engaged Sheryl Dyer and Joe Schmidt! Such happy news! Longtime lovebirds Sheryl Dyer and Joe Schmidt made it official on Thanksgiving Day when he popped the question in front of family and friends at a Sea Island, Georgia get-together! Sheryl is the managing director of Van Cleef & Arpels and Joe is the president (and crack golfer) at Saint Patrick High School! Long may they love!! Woot! Woot!


Christmas is comin' your wayChristmas is in full swing at our house. Actually, we started decorating before Thanksgiving but don't judge me 'bro. It's our favorite time of the year so I'm always anxious to dust off the decor and fill the house with holiday cheer! Nothing makes me happier than to see every nook and cranny filled with something that makes me smile. I'm especially proud of our antique Christmas collection, but then, this stays up all year-round! Ho! Ho! Ho!


IMG_7659I hope you all had the happiest of Thanksgivings! We had a bittersweet one with my sister and brother-in-law (Nancy and #2Dr. Os Steinwald). Bittersweet because it was our last one together in Chicago as they're moving to Florida soon. We're losing so many friends to the enticing warmer clime of the Sunshine State. Just this week, beloved Jan Melk has decamped to her new home on Fisher Island and Leslie Hindman (Happy Birthday!) has made Palm Beach her permanent residence as well.  I hope they all know they haven't escaped us….we can drive ya' know!

Love, as always,

Candace

CandaceJordan@rcn.com

P.S. Animals thankful for being rescued and websites where you can help, if so inclined. Awwwwww!

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