Plus: Norma zooms into the Chicago Costume Council funder; Illinois Holocaust Museum's virtual Humanitarian Awards; Girls in the Game's (virtual) Field of Dreams Gala; Chicago Star lights up the Windy City; Steak 48 teams up with Common Threads; The Landan Twins want to help; Richardson Adventure Farm's first ever TULIP FESTIVAL!; Dining in the Dark, a new pop-up culinary experience; Cindy McCain keynotes Rush Woman's Board Luncheon; Back to the movies (what's open NOW?); Jurassic Quest is BAAACCKKK!; The Pendry Chicago set to open mid-May; PAWS Chicago's High Rollers Bingo; The Service Club is "Desperately Seeking Fashion"; ULBGC Ring Lardner Awards; "The Happy Magic Chair" makes its debut; Bear Tie Ball "Untied"; Ingalls' Fashion Reveal; Event updates; Randolph Street Market premieres in Three Oaks!; Memories of Hef on his 95th heavenly birthday; Fun videos and SOOO much more!
$49 per vehicle (8 people or less) and available at www.jurassicquest.com. An audio tour comes standard with every purchase (choose from two; special accommodations can be made for the hearing impaired) as well as a safari-style digital souvenir photo of your vehicle and family transported back in time via a Jurassic setting. Special souvenir packages and other add-ons can be purchased at check out. (The attraction follows all Covid-19 protocols. Police, military, medical personnel and first responders receive 10% off ticket prices with valid ID.) (We went last year and loved it although the car lines were very long!)
PAWS Chicago will host High Rollers Bingo on Wednesday, April 28, 6 pm. Join them for 3
PAWS Chicago's virtual bingo fundraiser.
rounds of virtual bingo emceed by board member Fred from The Fred Show on 103.5 KISS FM. $20 for one card or $50 for three cards.
And a brand new event for PAWS Chicago, Fore PAWS: A Golf Outing Benefiting PAWS Chicago will take place on Monday, June 14 at Westmoreland Country Club. For info, click here!
Eversight's Gift of Sight Masquerade returns Wed., Sept. 8 to the Peninsula.
Eversight Illinois'Gift of Sight Masquerade, themed Fantasea, will be held at the Peninsula Chicago on Wednesday, September 8, honoring community leaders Justine Fedak and Dr. Parag Majmudar. I'm proud to return as co-chair with Michael Caputo for this friend-raiser to help restore sight and prevent blindness. (Click here for info!)
The Service Club of Chicago will host its uber-popular hat luncheon, this year themed "Desperately Seeking Fashion." The event will be held at the Woman's Athletic Club (WAC) on Friday, May 21. To accommodate safety and distancing requirements, there will be 4 separate rooms of 50 people each, with guests sporting their finest millinery for what has become THE Hat Luncheon in Chicago! Co-chaired by Michelle Baker, Cathy Bell Bartholomay and Annette Findling, the hybrid event will be produced by Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions). The guest speaker will be Sandy Schreier, the famed fashion curator and historian. For tickets/more info, click here. The SC's next event, Day on the Terrace, will return on Monday, Aug. 2, co-chaired by Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Tracey, whose ZZAZZ Productions will again produce the show. More details coming soon for DOT. (Chicago Star Media will be the proud media sponsor!)
The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs will host the Ring Lardner Awards, honoring excellence in sports journalism via zoom on Thursday, April 29, 7 pm. All funds raised will go to ULBG, which has served the after-school development needs
Dan Roan, sports anchor at Nexstar, WGN-9, has been named broadcast recipient of the 2020 Ring Lardner Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism.
of Chicago's youth for over 100 years. Since 2002, the program has honored writers and Chicago sports broadcasters who encapsulate the same "wit and warmth" of Lardner's writing. The Ring Lardner Awards represent journalists in three categories: Broadcast, Print, and Posthumous. This year’s honors include Chicago sports journalists Toni Ginnetti (former Chicago Sun-Times reporter, to be presented by current Sun-Times senior columnist Rick Telander); Dan Roan (current WGN TV sports anchor, presented by former WGN TV sportscaster Rich King); and Cooper Rollow (former Chicago Tribune sports editor, to be presented by former Chicago Tribune sports reporter Mike Conklin).
For the past 28 years, Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation has hosted the annual Bear Tie Ball. This event is the nonprofit's largest fundraiser of the year, empowering them to bring joy and hope to children battling cancer. Although this year looks different, families continue to need their support. On May 1, "Bear Tie Ball: Untied," a virtual event, will feature a video showcasing the families, kids, supporters and more. Please consider tuning in/donating or both, here.
The Ingalls Development Foundation will host "Promise of Hope Fashion Reveal," a virtual fashion show produced by ZZAZZ Productions. The event will take place on Sunday, April 18, 5-7 pm CST, to support its cancer research program. Register for FREE here!
Children's Place will celebrate 30 years of supporting Chicago's most vulnerable kids with its annual gala, this year honoring Alex Kotlowitz and Maria Woltjen. (Click here for details!)
"Games Galore” for The Chicago Lighthouse's Associate Board! Join them virtually on Wednesday, April 14 for virtual canasta. Purchase raffle tickets to win some great prizes, including a gold and diamond necklace by Dana Rebecca Designs and so much more! (Tickets and all info here.
Friday, April 9 was Hugh Marston Hefner's 95th (heavenly) birthday. The memories I have of Playboy and Hef will last me several lifetimes and beyond. I've been dabbling on a book but who knows what will happen with it. All I know is that I miss him so and am so appreciative of the life he's given me. I wrote a sort of love letter to him here in Chicago Star Media. I hope you like it.
Special thanks to Chicago State Foundation and its executive director Darrious Hilmon for featuring me on "5 Questions with…", a short video series that highlights both local and national leaders and professionals. The series lives on their YouTube channel. My segment is below. (Chicago State Foundation advances the interest and welfare of Chicago State University by building relationships, securing philanthropic support and more. Read all about it here).
And special thanks to Art "Chat Daddy" Sims, for having me on his "The Real Chat Daddy Show" in honor of Women's History Month. It was a fun, free-wheeling interview with Art and his co-host K. Renee Mason. See segment below, my part comes in at 1:05, but it's all good!
______________________________________________________________________ I couldn't be more excited about the return of my favorite market, Randolph Street Market! Watch for Sally Schwartz' first market foray into Three Oaks, Michigan, on Memorial Day Weekend, May 30 and 31 (Saturday and Sunday). Other dates on the books are June 19,20; July 3,4; August 7, 8; September 4, 5; and October 2,3. I can't wait to attend and love the idea of a little road trip out of the city! Who's with me!? 🙂
Congrats, with love, to author Justine Fedak and her creative partner Chris Walker (Urbanime). Their new
Illustrator Chris Walker, founder of Urbanime.
book, "The Happy Magic Chair" is out now and is a must-have for kids of all ages. It's a story written for children that know they are "magic" and to remind adults OF their magic. The character, Little Pea, beautifully realized by Chris, sometimes feels sad but she doesn't know why. Thanks to the Happy Magic Chair, she realizes that she has everything she needs already inside. (Buy it through publisher Balboa Presshere and on Amazon).
Enjoying Jennifer Sutton Brieva's special birthday at Le Colonial recently.
As you can see, things are heating up around town, especially with the return of many of our beloved nonprofit events! I know many are still virtual or hybrid but at least they're returning and are STILL HERE! This is very good news! And the
La Scarola with Armando, Chuck and Michael Kutza.
same is true for our restaurants, slowly filling with smiling, happy faces. We've visited La Scarola, Gibson's, Le Colonial, RL, Ping Pong, Pizano's, Shaw's Oyster Bar and others, and have been so happy to see them safely filled with new and old customers. A special shout-out again to the Landan Twins for trying to advance restaurants' efforts through their new lending program (see details above).
I hope you are successful with your vaccinations and that you're happy and healthy. Just remember, this too shall pass…..
Plus: Dollywood!; Expo Chicago; Common Threads' BIG news; Very Versace; Columbian Ball, Best Pumpkin Patches; Top events through year's end; Rush's Bright Futures; Chicago Botanic Garden's elegant Harvest Party; Chicago Loop Alliance's Illumination Gala; Beth's awesome new mag; Rev Up on WGN Radio and Fox 32; Allegrezza's Boozy Brunch; This & That; Darling videos and SOOOO much more!
An exotic, real life garden came to life recently at 900 North Michigan Shops and it was heavenly! You could
Fleurs de Villes co-creators Karen Marshall and Tina Barkley with David Murga.
smell the exhibit before you actually came upon it. Chicagoans and tourists alike, stopped to smell the roses, and countless other varieties of flowers, at the U.S. debut of Fleurs de Villes. The five-day pop-up exhibition of fresh floral couture was hosted by 900 North Michigan Shops and featured 16 different mannequins showcasing custom couture handcrafted by Chicago’s
900 Shops' Taylor Stucker, Stacy Kolios and Alicia Skruba with ZZAZZ model.
top luxury florists. In addition to the collection of fresh, floral couture, the creative activation also featured daily market stalls, floral workshops and floral-forward menu
HMR Designs
offerings. Fifteen of Chicago’s leading florists, including HMR Designs, Kehoe Designs, The Revel Group, Flowers for Dreams, Flower Firm, Flora Chicago, Fleurs Chicago and more were paired with world-class brands to design stunning displays of custom couture created out of magnificent, fresh flowers. The five-day extravaganza kicked off on Wednesday, September 25 with a VIP Preview Party, where over 275 guests attended and the creations were unveiled. A panel of guest judges voted on their favorite
Festive floral attire was the order of the day.
works. I was proud to be a judge alongside Michelle Alegria (Fox WFLD Ch. 32); Rosie Clayton (influencer); Salina Wunderle (Sr. horticulturist for Green Houses, Chicago Botanic Garden) and Joe Barnes (marketing
With ZZAZZ model wearing headpiece created by Kehoe Designs.
manager for Kennicott Brothers). VIPs in attendance included Elle Cashin, Editor, Modern Luxury Weddings; Clark Lichty, Fashion Model ; Susanna Homan, Chicago Magazine; Christopher Marrs, Fashion Model & Photographer; Rina Puri & Sonia Shah, bloggers, Chicks And Salsa ; Derrick Taylor, owner Taylor &
Designer Pavel beside his award-winning creation.
Co. Events; Brian Smith, Joffrey Ballet PR director; Tom Kehoe, Kehoe Designs; Jennifer Worman, blogger & influencer, Red Soles & Red Wine; Tom Carto, Chicago Helicopter Experience; Tracey Tarantino, Zzazz Productions ; Dana Nolan, ZZAZZ
Flowers for Dreams designers for L'Occitane wins Best in Show.
Productions; Jillian K. Horn, blogger, Chicago Mom Blog; Andrea Levoff, blogger, Dope Ass Mom; Brianne Garritano, event planner, Marquette Avenue Events; Stacy Kolios, Sr. Dir. Of Marketing, 900 Shops; ; Alicia Skruba, Marketing & Business Development, 900 Shops; Taylor Stucker, Asst. Marketing & PR Manager, 900 Shops and David Murga, PR guru, Kehoe Designs/900 Shops
Joffrey Ballet dancers surround the stunning Joffrey mannequin.
and all-round cutie, among others. Highlights of the five-day activation included a pop-up shop from Chicago Botanic Garden, Hendrick’s Gin bar promoting their Original Blend and Midsummer Solstice blends, and floral-related food and beverage dining experiences from Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Daily floral workshops were held in Le Jardin, a special garden-like setting created by Kehoe Designs. A number of workshops were offered that included presentations by Fleurs de Villes co-founder Tina Barkley; L'Occitane en Provence; Modern Luxury's Amy Allen, publisher,and Elle Cashin, editor-in-chief; Aster Hall and Mila Floral Design School. After viewing the 15 fresh floral mannequins at the 900 Shops, visitors were invited
Detail of Chicago Magazine mannequin by Flora Chicago.
to view the 16th mannequin that was exhibited at Chicago’s Four Seasons Hotel lobby. The public was then
ZZAZZ model wearing Kehoe Design headpiece.
encouraged to vote on their favorite mannequin for a chance to win a trip to Seattle to attend the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival in February 2020 where Fleurs de Villes will pop-up as a feature attraction. The Fan Favorite winners were: 1st Place – Modern Luxury Weddings’ mannequin, created
Derrick Taylor and Ramsey Prince (center) with cute friends.
by HMR Designs; 2nd Place – Four Seasons Hotel Chicago’s mannequin, created by The Revel Group; 3rd Place – Elena’s Garden Events, Northwest Flower & Garden Fest. The Judge's Winners were: Most Realistic–HMR Designs for Modern Luxury Weddings Magazine; Most Original–Designs by Pavel for 900 North Michigan
Joffrey's Brian Smith and dancer.
Shops; Best in Show: Flowers for Dreams for L'Occitane; Florist Favorite–The Revel Group for Rigby + Peller. Established in 2015 by lifestyle and media professionals Karen Marshall and Tina
Kehoe Designs mannequin surrounded by neon.
Barkley, Fleurs de Villes is a unique, luxury experiential brand, grounded in hyper-local content. In each city the company presents in, they feature the works of top florists in that city, creating stunning fresh floral mannequins aligned with, and inspired by, partnered brands presented in elegant gallery-like settings. I'd never seen anything like it. If you missed it, and it returns (hopefully), run don't walk to the 900 Shops! (For more info on this unique pop-up, click here!)
For our next great adventure, we decided to cross something off our bucket list–a trip to Dollywood! Last year, it was the home of the king, Elvis and Graceland, and this year, we traveled to the home of the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton. Parton jointly owns Dollywood
Chuck in front of a replica of Dolly's tiny family home.
with Herschend Family Entertainment and it is kitsch, at its finest. It's located in the tiny mountain resort town of Pigeon Forge (pop.
Pumpkin LumiNights at Dollywood.
5,875, motto, "The Center of Fun in the Smokies"), just five miles north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dollywood has gone through many incarnations before becoming what it is today. I remember in the 70s, it was called Silver Dollar City. To be clear, this is no Disneyland but, if you love kitschy down-home things like we do, then you would love Dollywood. Situated on 150 acres (that includes Dollywood's sister water park,
The Grist Mill at Dollywood where delicious cinnamon bread is made from scratch.
Splash Country, Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction), the property features 50 rides and attractions, 9 roller coasters
Chuck with Pumpkin Polly.
(which we avoided like the plague), 3 water rides and a large variety of traditional crafts and music, indigenous to the area. We got very lucky hitting the park just as its "Great Pumpkin LumiNights" opened (through November 2). This attraction, the largest addition ever made to Dollywood's fall festival, has to be seen after dark to be appreciated with over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins, sculptures, whimsical scenes and characters like the Pumpkin Master, Pumpkin Polly, Patches the Scarecrow and Pumpkin Penny, all eager to pose for photos. Besides this Halloween themed addition, the
A show of hands at Waxman Company–they're newlyweds too!
park offers so much of interest. I loved seeing the replica of Dolly's tiny home, built by her brother and furnished by her
SOOOooooo many Christmas shops!
mother with original family treasures. How 11 kids ever fit in there is a mystery to me but it worked for her and inspired her life and music, making Dolly well "Dolly", the one and only. We took a ride on a coal-burning steam locomotive that was built in the 1940s. And since Chuck and I both come from railroad families, this was a real treat. As with any theme park, the gift offerings were unique and varied. We bought a set of plaster hands of Chuck and I holding hands, cinnamon bread at the Grist Mill, wild
Our "Coat of Many Colors" ornament.
elderberry jelly, matching T-shirts, a Christmas ornament and more. I collect ornaments from wherever we travel and the one I found at
Hobnobbing with the Colonel in London, Kentucky.
Dollywood was so perfect–a tiny "Coat of Many Colors" created in honor of Dolly's popular song about her mother creating a patchwork coat for her that made her feel "rich" even though they were dirt poor. It's a funny and odd thing that Christmas is so very popular in Pigeon Forge. A Christmas store seemed to be on every corner offering every type of holiday item there is. There were so many restaurant choices inside (and outside) the park serving southern fare like fried chicken, ham and beans, grits, cornbread and biscuits, BBQ, funnel cakes–nothing with any dietary fiber whatsoever. In the Spotlight Bakery, you could watch a 25-pound apple pie being
I can only imagine what it must be like here at Christmastime!
baked in a cast iron skillet. One slice weighs three
The famous 25-lb. apple pie at Dollywood.
pounds! (And it can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. for $189.99. Wouldn't this be a great idea for a party?!) I wish I could've bottled those luscious aromas, omg. Being a bird lover/watcher, I was particularly interested in the Wings of America Show, sponsored by the non-profit American Eagle Foundation. We missed the show but a beautiful facility next door allowed guests an up-close-and-personal view of nonreleasable raptors (due to injury or human imprinting) that included Maverick the Harris Hawk, Friar Tuck the African Pied Grow, Poe the Northern Raven, Tecumsah the Golden Eagle and many others.
A charming chapel in the woods in Dollywood.
The park also includes nearly 1 million cubic feet of
A coal-burning, steam locomotive takes you on a 20 minute ride inside and outside of Dollywood.
natural habitat that houses the largest presentation of (again, nonreleasable) bald eagles. One of the most amazing, and wonderful, things about Dollywood was the preponderance of senior citizens who worked there. I love the fact that Dolly was intent on giving EVERYONE jobs at the park and she succeeded. Workers there were so friendly and highly competent–such a smart move, for all concerned. Another cool factoid–Dollywood is the only theme park in the world with a calming room for kids with autism. So thoughtful! While we were there, we took our friends Bonnie Spurlock and GeoffBurton up on their suggestions. We drove to Knoxville for a delightful brunch at the Tupelo Honey
The trip was exhausting for some of us.
Our relaxing view from the charming RiverStone Resort & Spa in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Cafe, located inside the historic Oliver Hotel in Market Square (Loved it!) and nailed the best candy store in Dollywood for Chuck (The Old Fashioned Candy Store). The town of Pigeon Forge is filled with unique attractions of its own like the Muscle Car Museum, the World's Largest Knife Store, a Nascar Speed Park, Wax Museums, the Smokey Mountain Opry, antique malls, helicopter and zip-
We'll be baaaccckkk, hopefully for Dolly's Smoky Mountain Christmas Spectacular!
lining opportunities, Christmas shops, distilleries, Civil War museums, a Jurassic Park attraction, the WonderWorks amusement park and more pancake houses per square foot than anywhere else in the world. We loved it ALL! The drive down and back was delightful too, even at a little over 8 hours. The scenery was spectacular and Rooney, Chuck and I were just happy being together on the road, away from any distractions except each other. (For more info about Dollywood, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area, click here).
Michael O’Grady, Madeleine Grynsztejn, Michelle T. Boone, Mac MacLellan, and President/Director of EXPO CHICAGO Tony Karman.
EXPO CHICAGO, The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, concluded its eighth edition at Navy Pier on Sunday, September 22, with record attendance of international collectors and
Kelly Drew Townsel, Lori Crosley, Carrie Lannon, Liza Brooks.
curators alongside 38,000 visitors, presentations from exhibiting galleries and strong sales, in what was its most global edition to date. On opening day alone, the exposition welcomed more than 8,000 VIP guests while raising $265,000 to benefit the Museum of
MCA Vernissage Patron Reception co-chairs Lori Crosley (L) and Mary Kay Touhy.
Contemporary Art Chicago during Vernissage. Collectors, curators, artists and art professionals enjoyed an exclusive first look at 135 leading galleries from 24 countries and 68 cities throughout the Pier’s iconic Festival Hall. “We are extremely proud of our recent eighth edition—the quality of work presented by our participating
Ellen-Blair Chube and Naomi Beckwith.
exhibitors translated into strong sales, an overwhelmingly positive response to our critically acclaimed programming, and significantly contributed to our powerful forward momentum,” said EXPO CHICAGO president/director Tony Karman. “Chicago
Kiernan Miller
knows how to welcome the world and our date alignment with the third Chicago Architectural Biennial, our special exhibitions and presentations, along with our ongoing collaborations with our renowned museums, institutions and galleries contributed greatly to our successes,” he added. “I am confident that many more calendars will be marked for Chicago next September.” Notable collectors, curators and museum directors in attendance included Marcella Beccaria (Castello di Rivoli Museo d'Arte Contemporanea), Greg Bell (Vulcan, Inc.), Étienne Bernard (Frac Bretagne), Fred Bidwell (Collector), Giovanna Borasi (Canadian Centre for
Sara Ismael.
Architecture), James Cuno (J. Paul Getty Trust), Mireya Escalante (Coppel Collection), David Eskenazi (Collector), Larry and Marilyn Fields (Collectors), Maxine and Stuart Frankel (Collectors), Pamela Joyner and Fred Giuffrida (Collector), Jack and Sandra Guthman (Collectors), Lisa Goodman and Josef Vascovitz (Collectors), Louis Grachos (Palm Springs Art Museum), Kenneth C. Griffin (Collector), John and Sharon Hoffman (Collectors), Kirse Junge-Stevnsborg (Malmö Art Museum), Naima J. Keith (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Prospect.5) Noel Kirnon (Collector), Alicia Knock (Centre Pompidou), Patricia Marshall (Art Advisor), Marie Martraire (San Francisco Kadist Foundation), Lisa Melandri and Wassan Al-Khudairi (Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis), Ron Pizzuti (Collector), Sheikha Hoor al Qasimi (Sharjah Art Foundation), Claire Le Restif (Centre d'Art Contemporain d'Ivry — Le Crédac), Marc Richards (Collector), María Inés Rodríguez (Museu de Arte de São Paulo), Beth Rudin DeWoody (Collector), Alain Servais (Collector), Jill Snyder (moCa Cleveland), Marjorie andAmbassador Louis Susman (Collectors), Roberta Tenconi (Pirelli HangarBicocca), Michael and Leslie Weissman (Collectors), and Helen Zell (Collector). The eighth edition marked considerable institutional representation, with museum curators, trustees and patrons from worldwide cultural organizations including Andy Warhol Museum, Aspen Art Museum, The Brooklyn Museum, Centre Pompidou, The Contemporary
IN SITU- Janine Antoni Bridle 2000.
Austin, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, de Young Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco, Garage Museum of Contemporary Art Moscow, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Milwaukee Art Museum, TheMuseum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Palm Springs Art Museum, Pérez Art Museum Miami, Pulitzer Arts Foundation, Royal Academy of Arts London, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), Serpentine Galleries, The Speed Art Museum, and more. (Photos by Daniel Boczarski, Justin Darbin, Jeremy Lawson, Kevin Serna)
A huge congrats to Versace Chicago's GM Ann Wallace, Events Manager Wallis Wagenseil and Regional Director Erin Hill who hosted an elegant afternoon that won't soon be forgotten by some lucky ladies from the Service Club
Versace dinnnerware flown in specially for this occasion.
of Chicago who were mixed with some of Versace's top clients. The deliciously decadent luncheon at Le Colonial featured, get this, Versace Rosenthal dinnerware and stemware flown in especially for this occasion! Ladies who lunched included Myra Reilly, Paula Borg, Sherry Lea
Versace gown worn by model Kaia Gerber for her 18th BD, channeling her mom Cindy Crawford who wore it in the 90s.
Holson, Cheri Lawrence, Kathy Cook, Tracey Tarantino, Darby Hills, Susan Gohl and moi. (Kristina McGrath and Mamie Walton were invited but unable to attend.) At the conclusion of the luncheon, Versace presented an in-store fashion show that showcased its exquisite 2019 Fall/Winter collection. One of my favorites was the black, strappy gown that
With Versace Chicago GM Ann Wallace, love her!
super (baby) model Kaia Gerber wore that her mom, Cindy Crawford, made iconic back in the 90s! Each look was more stunning than the one before and the accessories! Oh my! What an honor to be included for this very special day! Love you Ann Wallace! (A portion of the sales were donated to the Service Club)
Another very special luncheon was hosted by Common Threads' Linda Novick O'Keefe (CT founding CEO) and Josh Fox (corporate engagement manager) on September 24. Since Linda has moved to Austin, Texas, it was so exciting to have the old gang (board members and
Common Threads' Jesus Salgueiro, Linda Novick O'Keefe and Chef Art Smith.
supporters) back together again at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden! She shared some very exciting news about the nonprofit that was founded by Chef Art Smith and his Jesus Salgueiro back in 2004. Since then, Common Threads has
Chef Art Smith's world famous fried chicken at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, 52 W. Elm.
now expanded to 13 cities, provided more than 4 million hours of nutrition and hands-on cooking education programming to more than 400,000 students and families. Mark your calendar NOW to celebrate the org's 15th anniversary at its special Chef Takeover on Monday, March 16! I'll have more exciting news to share about this later! Stay tuned! Seen enjoying the best fried chicken around were Ken Norgan, Greg Cameron, Gabrielle Martinez, Clarisol Dusque, Marilyn Vitale, Julius Rhodes, Constance Pikulas, Laura Schwartz Santiago, Andrea Schwartz Stryker, Sonya Jackson and many others.
Dani McGowan wears the Thunder Dress from MSI's Wired to Wear exhibit. The dress lit up when someone close by clapped!
The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) held the 39th annual Columbian Ball on October 5 with over 650 guests in attendance. The event raised approximately $1.8 million, which will go toward funding the Museum’s
MSI president/CEO David Mosena and wife Pat with Colleen Smith and Len Wagner.
educational programs, exhibits and experiences. Guests enjoyed food, drink and dancing while exploring MSI’s temporary exhibitions, Wired to Wear™ and Makers United. The Ball was co-chaired by Erin and Jason Pritzker, Peng Zhao and Cherry Chen with Mayor Lori Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman serving as honorary co-chairs. The one and only Bill Kurtis served as emcee for the event that began
April and Robert Jones.
with a reception featuring an aerialist duo; a tour of the science of spirits through a whiskey sampling in the Liz Stiffel Tasting Room; an embroidery station in MSI’s
Maarten de Jeu, Smita Shah, Nick Nagele, Christy and John Mahoney.
Wanger Family Fab Lab (where guests customized their own accessories) and music spun by DJ Nick “Nonstop” Nicholson. Guests were able to see garments from Wired to Wear in action, highlighting the intersection of fashion and technology. The apparel from the exhibit was worn by models, giving guests an up-close look at the strides designers are making in wearable technology. Dinner was served in the Museum’s Rotunda amid some of the Museum’s most recognizable exhibits, including the
Guests view Electric Dreams, a garment in MSI's exhibit "Wired to Wear."
Aerialist Angela Fernandez.
Coal Mine, the United Airlines Boeing 727 jetliner and the 40-foot tornado in Science Storms. The meal was accompanied by a collaboration of sound between DJ Emilio Abadia and the Jeff Gibbs Quartet. Throughout the evening, guests met Wired to Wear innovators inside the exhibit and viewed their inventions on display in the exhibit and in the Lower Court. Guests also had
Aerialists perform inside MSI's Entry Hall.
after-hours access to the Museum’s hands-on interactive exhibits as well as opportunities to create their own keepsake from the evening, test out the latest in virtual
Co-chairs Jason and Erin Pritzker and emcee Bill Kurtis.
reality technology and even play video games on the Giant Dome Theater’s five-story wraparound screen. After dinner, the Citadel Securities Wired After Party kicked off in the Museum’s Entry Hall, featuring a live set by DJ Nicholson and a special presentation by STAGE, a collaborative performance between engineers and artists at the University of Chicago who presented science in a whole new context through motion-capture. (Photos by John Wheeler and J.B. Spector)
Co-chairs Susie Healey, Colby Gaines and Buffy Maier.
The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center proudly presented a new annual Fall Benefit, Bright Futures, on Friday, September 6, at Theater on the Lake. The party drew more than 450 supporters and
Dr. Omar Lateef, CEO Rush University Medical Center, and Dr. Najia Shakoor.
featured cuisine by Blue Plate Catering with live musical entertainment from New York-based The Bob Hardwick Sound. The event was chaired by Woman’s Board members Colby Gaines, Susie Healey and Buffy Maier. The evening included craft cocktails featuring La Luna Mezcal and food stations celebrating gustatory favorites from the Bronzeville,
Theater on the Lake decor designed by HMR Designs.
Chinatown/Pilsen, Taylor Street and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. Bright, fresh décor by HMR Designs featured a blue, green and poppy color scheme. In keeping with the theme, guests’ donned bright cocktail attire too making the event a visual feast. Illuminated rectangular gold frames served as table centerpieces – a
Alison Victoria and Michael Marks.
nostalgic nod to the makeup mirrors used backstage at the Woman’s Board’s beloved Rush Fashion Show, which culminated with a 90th anniversary show in 2016. A surprise for guests upon
Lewis Wilson and Jakeline Jungbluth.
departure was the Boxcar Betty’s food truck stationed out front serving crispy fried chicken sliders and bite-sized pecan pies to-go. The event raised more than $470,000 to support the Rush Community Service Initiative Program, known as RCSIP. In 2019, The Woman's Board pledged $500,000 towards raising funds for this initiative that was established in 1991 to create a network of community service programs that matched Rush Medical College students' interests in social and healthcare needs of Chicago.(Photos by Widia Viti Photography and Rush Photo Group)
Ball co-chairs Sally Brown Thilman, Amie Alfe and Wendy Labrum.
The 3rd annual Harvest Party was held on the beautiful late-summer grounds of the Chicago Botanic Gardenon September 13. The event raised $100,000 to benefit Windy City Harvest, the Garden's urban agriculture education and jobs-training initiative to help build a local food system, healthier communities and a greener economy. More than 200 guests sipped cocktails, enjoyed a variety of small bites and listened to the sounds of DJ Famos! in the Helen and Richard Thomas English Walled Garden. J&L Catering served a farm-to-table dinner in McGinley Pavilion. The party was co-chaired by Amie Alfe, Wendy Labrum and Sally Brown Thilman. Established in 1998, the Guild supports the Garden through service projects as well as fundraising events. Led by co- presidents Jennifer Brown and Jennifer Neighbours, the group has more than 100 members representing a diverse group of young leaders from the Chicago area. The Chicago Botanic Garden, one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, is a 385-acre living plant museum featuring 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas. Located at 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe, the Garden is smoke free, free to the public and open year round.
Illumination Award recipient Dean Lane, Colleen Spector and John Wells.
The Chicago Loop Alliance hosted its 15th annual Illumination Gala on September 20 at the Hilton Chicago. The event featured dinner, dancing, drinks, interactive dessert stations, photo booths and live
Andrea Schwartz, Megan Bueschel, Stacie Hartman and Matt Ferguson.
music by Hey Jimmy. This year’s Illumination Award was presented to Dean Lane, area general manager, The Palmer House and Hiltons of Chicago, for his dedication to Chicago Loop Alliance and his tireless efforts to serve the City
Laura Tortorello, Nora Gainer and Kristen Cote-Favaro.
of Chicago and its hospitality and tourism community. The Illumination Award highlights civic and community leaders who, through their ideas, leadership and counsel, have increased the experience and well-being of Loop businesses, residents and visitors. I know Dean has done this in spades and am so happy for
Laura Caplin, Alanna Elinoff, Katherine Banich and Terry Banich.
his being recognized in such a wonderful way for all of his efforts. Gala co-chairs were Colleen Spector, corporate sales, Southwest Airlines, and John Wells, general manager, Hilton Chicago. Gala raised more than $256,000 to
Simone Randolph, Ariyana Randolph Miles and Dana Patmon-Johnson.
support public art projects and events in the Loop, including ACTIVATE, The Gateway, winter activations in the Pedway, State Street banner projects and more. The Illumination Gala’s presenting sponsor was Pressure Washing Systems; its cocktail reception sponsor was Streetplus; and its program book sponsor was Bannerville USA. In case you're not familiar with The Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation, this nonprofit pushes the limits of what a downtown can be for its residents, workers and visitors. The Foundation seeks to enrich the Loop’s public spaces through artistic expression and free cultural programming. Kudos for all you do CLAF!
You won't want to miss the Curated-Chicago's Launch Party for its fall issue on Tuesday, October 22 at Regal Cinemas (1471 W. Webster). I'm so excited to be a contributor for this issue featuring the one and only, Janet Lee Mandell as its glamorous covergirl (with GREAT photos by Barb Levant) The issue includes a behind-
Beth Rosen (mag founder, top L), covergirl Janet Lee Mandell, Tiosha Bailey and Kendra Chaplin.
the-TV look at the powerhouse that is Sally Lou Oaks Loveman; Susan G. Komen's new executive director Tiosha Bailey; how Amy Boyle is making a difference; Bela Gandhi's dating advice; tailgating tips from Beth Clinton Peterson; brand building advice and
First issue with Val Warner as covergirl!
tips from Ari Krzyzek, Marie Hale, Lauren Ramsey and everything you need to know about the party and gala scene from moi! Plus SOOOOO much more. Join us from 6-8 pm to celebrate and congratulate the magazine's fab founder/CEO Beth Rosen! (For tickets, $15-$30, (which will be directed to a local charity, TBD) and more info, click here!
With Ji Suk Yi, Lauren Lein, Dave Eanet and Justin Kauffman.
Special thanks to the Steve Cochran Show for having Apparel Industry Board president/fashion designer Lauren Lein and me on to talk about AIBI's Rev UP 2019 event on Thursday, October 10! Producer Vivianne Linou, host Justin Kaufmann ((Steve was on vaca), Dave Eanet and Steve's new co-host and our beautiful Rev Up emcee, Ji Suk Yi, were so welcoming and enthusiastic about this event that will shine a spotlight on Chicago's fashion community. (Listen here!) Thanks for helping us share the news! Here's hoping you can join us! Tickets are available, beginning at $75 (and payable at the door)! For more info, please click here!
Fall is filled with fabulous events that you won't want to miss! Check out my top picks HERE through the end of the YEAR! Broadcast Museum's "Rock on TV" on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at the Museum; Fleurotica at the Garfield Park Conservatory on Friday October 18; Chicago Children's Choir's "Red Jacket Optional" on Friday, October18; Navy Pier'sExPIERience Gala on Wednesday, October 23; EversightMystery Masquerade on Thursday, October 24 (honoring Sherry Lea Holson and Dr. David Lubeck) at the Peninsula; Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit luncheon (featuring Martin Short) on Friday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Susan G. Komen Gala "All Bets on Pink" at the Palmer House on Saturday, October 26; WITS (Working in the Schools) "Blackboard Affair" at the Geraghty on Saturday, October 26; Chicago Consular Corps Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Hilton Chicago; Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation's "Little Black Dress" luncheon on Wednesday, November 6 at the Skokie Country Club; Best Buddies Champions Gala, October 18 at Theater on the Lake; The Service Club of Chicago Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Four Seasons; The Chicago Urban League's "Golden Fellowship Dinner" at the Hilton Chicago on Saturday, November 2; Children's Oncology Services' "Camp One Step" at the Ritz-Carlton on Friday, November 8, Misericordia Heart of Mercy 50th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, November 9 at the Hilton Chicago; St. Jude fashion show/luncheon on Sunday, November 10 at the Donald Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont; James Jordan Foundation's "Bags for Kids" Gala on Thursday, November 14 at the Palmer House; Jackson Chance Foundation's "Ping Pong" Ball on Thursday, November 14 at the St. Jane Hotel; PAWS ChicagoFur Ball on Friday, November 15 at the Drake Hotel; Auditorium Theatre Gala, performance at the theatre followed by dinner at the Palmer House on Saturday, November 16; La Rabida Gala on Thursday, November 21 at the Ritz-Carlton; Illuminate 900, a holiday celebration like none other at the 900 North Michigan Shops; Botanic Garden's "All Aboard" gala at the garden on Friday, December 6; Catholic Charities'St. Nicholas Ball at the Hilton Chicago on Saturday, December 7; Lurie Children's Ball on Saturday, December 7 at the Hilton Chicago; JDRFOne Dream Gala at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center and Arie Crown Theater; WINGS Program Brunch, Sunday, December 8 at the Four Seasons; Old St. Patrick's Emerald Ball on Friday, October 18 at the Hilton Chicago; Muslim American Leadership Alliance Gala on Thursday, November 7 at Chicago History Museum; The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's Making an Impact: Havana Nights on Saturday, November 9 at the Drake Hotel; Simply From the Heart's Blush & Bowtie son November 9 at W City Center; Friends of Prentice An Evening in Oz on October 26 at Radisson Blu Acqua; Chicago Light's Toast to Tutoring on Tuesday, October 15 at Dance Studio; ALS Foundation's Hope Through Caring at Revel Fulton Market on Saturday, November 2; Urban Prep's Aces UP! on Thursday, October 24 at Chicago Sports Museum; Randolph Street Market, October 26/27 at Plumber's Hall. And then we get to start ALL over again next year!!
More fun press for tonight's (Oct. 10) AIBI REV UP from Sylvia Perez at Fox 32.Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions will produce the runway show) and I shared a sneak peek at the event with looks from three of the participating designers, Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein (AIBI president/designer) and Peach Carr! Sylvia will also be gracing our runway! Hope you can join us for this Salute to Chicago Fashion! (Watch segment here!)
Raise a glass and support the Allegrezza singers on Saturday, October 19 (10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m) at Bar Roma Chicago (5101 N. Clark). Allegrezza's Boozy Brunch fundraiser will celebrate and support this incredible community of joy, music and service with brunch eats, bottomless mimosas, a FAB silent auction, prizes, a raffle and so much more! Get tickets/more info here! (They're accepting silent auction donations as well!)
That's all for this week's edition! I hope you've enjoyed hearing about all the great things happening in and around town (and beyond). I'm thrilled Fall has finally arrived! As much as I love summer, I don't enjoy the heat. Sweater Weather is my favorite season! Hope you're making the most of these glorious days. Also, here's a great list of the top Pumpkin Patches near us, so plan a trip and get lost in a corn maze!
Plus CHANEL's perfect, private opening party; Costume Council's "Shall We Dance"; Borris' touching #TRAPPED show; "Hope Through Caring" Gala; Alzheimer Association's "Key to the Future"; Ravinia's cover boy; CS/Modern Luxury Datebook launch; Celebrating Paul; Collector's Call debuts; Sabrina's "Adventures of Kameron"; Chicago Fashion Week with FashionBar; UNICEF at the Geraghty; BEST event listings; Darling videos and so much MORE! _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
President Award recipient John Robak, Myrna Farmer, Cynthia Calk, Stephen Cattouse and Bethany Florek
Face the Future Foundation (FFF) held its annual gala at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on March 23. This year’s event, themed "Under the Big Top," attracted 370 people and raised nearly $600,000 (including a generous $50,000 donation from the Chicago Title Bowl-a-thon fundraiser.) Gala proceeds benefit the UI Health Craniofacial Center for the care and treatment of children with cleft lip, cleft palate and other craniofacial conditions, for research and education and
Aerialist artist Bobbi Reed amid decor by Tamar Productions.
support other Foundation initiatives. The black-tie affair began with a lively pre-dinner reception and a silent auction that featured nearly 100 items. The ballroom was draped in billowy red and white sheer fabric
Scholarship recipient Emily Cihla with parents Karen Olenski and David Cihla
tented across the ceiling for a “big top” effect (by Tamar Productions). In the center of the room, the Ringmaster lead circus-style acts that entertained guests before dinner. John C. Robak, president of Greeley and Hansen, received the President’s Award for his ongoing commitment to help change the lives of Chicago-area children and for his ardent support of the Foundation and its mission. Board member Mary Ann Rose introduced Robak, who said,
Emcee Lourdes Duarte and Matt McGrath.
“Face the Future Foundation is truly a worthy cause, because of the incredibly profound way that it helps to make a better life for children with craniofacial differences, as well as their families.” Foundation president Rob Grant introduced the Adrienne L. Green scholarship recipient Emily Cihla who was born with Treacher
Kimberly and Christopher Gosell.
Collins Syndrome, an uncommon genetic condition. A few weeks after her birth, Dr Pravin Patel saw her for the first time, and performed emergency surgery to help her breathe. Emily, who has undergone multiple reconstructive procedures, will need treatment for the rest of her life. She attends the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she is currently a freshman, and plans to use the $5,000 scholarship award for continuing education. During her acceptance speech, Emily remarked, “I am very grateful for the care I've received from all my medical professionals at the Center who have helped get me where I am today. I'd also like to thank Face the
Lois Pike and daughter Abby Pike.
Future Foundation whose support has made many of my treatments possible and now, with this scholarship award, my educational endeavors. They have been an integral part of my past and now are a part my
Regina Rice, Florence Mussat MD, Aline Delpierre and Joy Degani.
future.” (Read more of Emily’s story here.) The appeal video featured Abigail Pike, who was born with cleft lip and palate and adopted from China as an infant. It touched on her personal struggles with accepting her appearance, her feelings of insecurity and inferiority and an unwillingness to smile. With the help of her team of doctors and medical professionals, and the additional surgeries she has undergone to correct the issues, she has blossomed into a smiling 16-year-old. (Click here for the appeal video.) The Craniofacial Center’s director, Mimis Cohen MD, expressed his gratitude to the Foundation. (Photos by David Turner)
Designer Borris Powell bares his soul at his "Trapped" fashion show.
On March 24 at the Drake Hotel one of Chicago's most beloved fashion designers bared his soul through his #TRAPPED collection. It was an exciting fashion moment, as all of Borris Powell's' runway shows are, but it also came with a touchingly honest revelation on the life he's led. As a sellout crowd enjoyed his latest looks, a new line that transcends seasons and instead embraces them all (his Trans Season Collection), no one was aware of the pain Borris had kept from even his closest friends. In Borris' own words, "I feel that while this is my most favorite collection that I've ever designed, it was the most hurtful at the same time. I personally was going through a lot of disappointment, heartache, shame, feeling of loneliness, and so much more that started to lead to a bit of depression. For way too long I would hide these feelings out of shame, or the fact that I thought I would scare friends and clients away. Going to different events and being out, I got very good at acting as if I was on top of the world and I was living the
Borris and makeup artist Kim prepare for the show.
most amazing life. You know what they say. 'Fake it until you make it' or 'Keeping up with the Jones.' Living the constant lie and then coming back to my reality became unbearable for me. Before too long, I was living a #trapped life. Pretending to be what everyone had come to expect me to be based on the type of garments that I make and the events that I attend, was eating at me. Because that was far from the life that I was truly living. There was a time that I was living out of a car that my
The collection was for all sexes and spanned all seasons.
dad had given me. See, I didn't even have an address, but yet I was attending lavish events and brushing shoulders with some of the most wealthiest. At times, at these events, it could have been my only true meal that day. It was 8 months living like this before I was able to climb my way out of the darkness. But the damage had
Borris promoting his fashion show on TV and smiling through the pain.
already been done. It would take me some time to be able to direct this hurt and pain that almost took me down a path of no return and make it into a message. I have to give credit to music once again for saving my life. One day I heard a song that grabbed me. Then that song led me to two more. Ultimately, these three songs started to give me a sense of purpose. From there, visions. Then it started to make more and more sense. I was feeling trapped within a life that I worked so hard to build." He added, " I just hope that by me telling my truth, I can help take some of the shame away and save someone else that might
The "Borris" bag–GIMME!
not see a way out, and or, make more of us aware of the hurt that our loved ones are going through. If we pay closer attention, maybe we can save someone that isn't as strong in that moment, or doesn't have an outlet to work out the darkness." (For 24 hour depression helpline, click here) The collection and Borris received multiple standing ovations. There were lots of tears but Borris is coming out of the darkness and taking his true place in the world–a place where love is more important than money and the truth will always set you free. Love and thank you for your honesty Borris. I bet there are more people living like this than you know. You are never alone. (Save October 19 for Borris' next big show!)
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted "Shall We Dance," the opening night gala of the Museum's new fashion exhibition, Silver Screen to Mainstream: American Fashion in the 1930’s and 40’s. More than 150 guests attended the event on April 5 which included an elegant ballroom dance performance by the popular Megan and Igor Afonkin. Guests also enjoyed music
Kathleen Haines-Finley– a vision of style.
by Michael Lerich and His Orchestra. The event raised over $100,000 in support of the Costume Council’s commitment to the Chicago History Museum and was co-chaired by Pamella Capitanini, Karen Peters and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The fashionable event included a champagne
Co-chair Richard Weinberg and his dance partner.
reception and a first-look at the exhibit. The Costume Council supports the Museum’s world-renowned costume collection, which contains over 50,000 pieces dating from the 1750s to the present and, if you haven't visited, you're really missing out. Its holdings encompass garments worn by prominent Chicagoans and Americans. Unique pieces include personal items belonging to Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, Michael Jordan's basketball uniform and Mahalia Jackson's choir robe. The earliest pieces
Always handsome guest Mark Olley!
include suits worn by George Washington and John Adams. The Museum's extensive couture holdings, ranging from Charles Worth gowns to the innovative designs of Yohji Yamamoto, have earned an international reputation. (All
Beautiful co-chair Pam Capitanini (center) and friends.
The Les Turner ALS Foundation hosted its annual Hope Through Caring Gala on March 9 at Rockwell on the River in Chicago. Nearly 450 people helped honor Mindy Evans-Williams and Robert L. Sufit, MD, raising $617,000 for the foundation. The gala featured a video presentation, paddle raise, balloon raffle, award presentations and music by The Chicago Players. Emcee Paul Lisnek (of WGN-TV) opened the evening’s program followed by heartfelt remarks from Les Turner ALS Foundation’s CEO Andrea Pauls Backman and board chair Ken Hoffman. Andrea and Ken spoke of the
Josh Newsome, Andy Jordan and cute friend.
Foundation’s role in the lives of those affected by ALS and thanked the 21 men and women living with ALS who were in attendance. “We were honored to be joined by so many people living with ALS and are grateful to everyone we serve for trusting us with their care,” said Backman. “People living with ALS and their families are the spirit of what we do, and every decision we make and step forward we take is informed by and because of them. They are our constant motivation to put an end to this devastating disease.” Auctioneer Wade Leist led the crowd in an exciting and highly successful paddle raise that realized over $243,000. Mindy was diagnosed with ALS in September of 1992 and has received support
Laurie Fieldman, Mindy Evans-Williams (honoree) and friend.
and resources from the Foundation. To show her
Paul Lisnek (R) and friends.
appreciation and to help others facing their own unique experiences with ALS, Mindy generously pays it forward with gifts and donations to the Foundation. She was presented with the Hope Through Caring Award by her longtime friend and social worker with the Foundation, Laurie B. Fieldman, LCSW. The program included an additional award presentation, the first-ever Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS, which was given to Robert Sufit, MD. Throughout his 27 years as a neurologist at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine, Rob has helped thousands of families affected by ALS and has demonstrated a commitment to creating individualized treatments and furthering research through more than 90 scientific publications.
On April 9, Oak Street was abuzz as Chanel hosted an official private party to celebrate its gorgeous new location at 65 E. Oak Street. I suspect this Tuesday night event was the first of many for the store but it was a thrill to be included for this one that attracted a lot of familiar faces. Black-clad name checkers made sure no one who wasn't invited slipped inside the door. Inside, Champagne on silver
Chanel Takeover at Le Colonial.
trays and caviar topped hors d'oeuvres were passed through the well-heeled throng. Designed by Peter Marino, the space is a work of art–all black, white and silver sleekness with a restroom that belongs in the Louvre, pink slabs of marble on all four walls
Chuck enjoying Le Colonial's exquisite bar.
with not a seam in sight. Oh my. A dinner followed next door at Le Colonial–Chicago's newest hotspot–where the always darling Nate Berkus and his husband were seen dining earlier in the week. The entire restaurant was a "Chanel Takeover” with gorgeous white flowers topping the tables. It was a beautiful space that I had only seen packed on a regular, open-to-the-public night. With less people, I was
Julianna Zobrist wearing light-up Chanel sandals.
able to truly appreciate how magnificent this restaurant is from the cherry wood and zinc bars that had to be airlifted through the windows to the exquisite
Beautiful mother/daughter tablemates.
coffered ceiling. And, in true Chanel-perfection-form, the takeaway gift was a 7 ounce bottle of "1957" cologne! To die. Seen on the scene were Toni Canada, clad in a magnificent bejeweled vintage Chanel jacket, Susanna Homan, Liza Schweitzer, Paula Borg, Julianna Zobrist (wearing Chanel light-up sandals), Liz Ryan, Hanah Jubeh, Whitley Bouma-Herbert, Gregg Zgonena and Shaun Moselik and so many others! Huge congrats to owner Joe King–customers who loved the old Le Colonial spot needn't have worried about the change–it's even better than the original!
Dan Murphy, gala chair, and Dr. Maria Carrillo, Chief Science Officer, Alzheimer's Assn.
The Alzheimer’s Association’stop supporters and committee members gathered at the Conrad Hilton Suite at the Hilton Chicago on March 19 for their annual Kick-Off for an intimate research update and conversation with Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer, Maria Carrillo, PHD. The event was held in honor of the 32nd Annual Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala, which is taking place on May 4that the Hilton Chicago. Guests discussed the upcoming
Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Legacy Award recipients, center) with Betsy and Dave Goltermann.
gala event and its theme of “The Key to the Future” – inspired by Paris’ world-famous Pont des Arts (the Love Lock Bridge), bringing together advocates passionate about unlocking a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Joan and Paul Rubschlager, Zenith Society members, were recognized with the Legacy
Philanthropists Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Gala Legacy Award recipients) and valued members of the community.
Award for their ongoing support of the Association's global research program. In 2012, they generously donated $1 million for the efforts and in 2018, they made a second Zenith Society-level investment to support the nutritional counseling and modification component of the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health. The Rubschlagers are much loved members of the community and their support spans across many fields of medical research and the arts. (For gala info, click here!) (Photos by Bill Richert)
Congrats to much loved Nick Pullia, Ravinia's adorable award-winning Director of Communications,
Nick Pullia, Ravinia's Director of Communications, is a cover star!
who was recently featured in the cover story of the Highland Park Neighbors Magazine! The wide ranging article by Paul Clements (with photos by Scott McDougall) covered everything
With Shelita Shaw, Jennifer Schulze, Nick Pullia, Dina Bair and Cheryl Burton.
from Nick's enthusiasm for the arts to his successful "side job" as a screen writer (he's sold two screenplays, including one to Ralph Lauren's producer/son Andrew Lauren). Nick's interests are wide and varied and includes a menagerie of beloved furry friends–a Moluccan Cockatoo, a rescued Scarlet Macaw and Sun Conure. Rescue dogs include a Pyrenees mix, Redtick Coonhound and a harlequin-coated Great Dane. His creativity and joie de vivre are limitless and contagious. It's an honor to call him a friend. Congrats with love Nick!
Co-hosting CS Datebook Launch with David Zivan, Modern Luxury Group Editor/Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago.
Thanks to David Zivan (Modern Luxury Group Editor/ Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago) and Dan Uslan (Modern Luxury Market President) for the privilege of co-hosting your fabulous CS Datebook 2019 Launch Party on March 26. It was a packed house at Truluck's (41 E. Chestnut) for this celebration of Chicago's "charity Bible"! It's
Truluck's managing partner Andrea Gentry and Dan Uslan, Modern Luxury Market President.
my go-to source (after CandidCandace.com, of course!) for all the latest and best event news with fab photos from past charity events. The "source" is a great guide for what's happening around town and it actually serves as a vetting process too so, if your event isn't listed, make sure you contact CS for next year! I co-hosted with David
Hot singer Molly Callinan.
who gave me such an incredible introduction that I wished I'd been wearing waterproof mascara. The entertainment couldn't have been better as the incredible and beautiful Molly Callinan (who also serves as the lead singer for Gary Sinise & Lt. Dan Band!!) sang her heart out onstage. There were welcoming remarks from Dan as well as the managing partner of Truluck's Andrea Gentry. The spring decor and magnificent ice sculpture made the event even more special as we mixed and mingled with friends that included Paul Iacono, Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz (who is soon to be Laura Schwartz Santiago), Michael Caputo, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson,
Michael Caputo
Michael Kutza, John Robak and Bethany, Jennifer Kiefer, Tom Ward, Beth Silverman, Joanna Slusky, Geoff Burton, Adrienne Squires, the Landan Twins, Laurie Dimakos,
With the fab staff of Truluck's, 41 E. Chestnut. (Photo by Jan Salazar)
Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jackie O'Connor, Mila Samokhina and daughter Elena, Heather Farley Ingram, Rhonda Sanderson, Simona Garcia, Nan Giordano, Joshua Blake Carter, Victor Mitchell, Peter Au, Kyle Curry and so many others! It was a great night with friends celebrating the wealth of nonprofits we are lucky to have here in the Windy City! A special shout-out and thanks to Sam Tobias (Modern Luxury Director of Marketing) and her team for making the evening simply perfect!
Popular Paul Iacono celebrates his BD with friends.
I don't know anyone who celebrates birthdays like Chicago's own Paul Iacono (president Chicago Dowel Company) And, it's through no fault of his own, he just has so damn many friends who want to celebrate with him! I bet he goes out every night for a month or more. For this year's fete, Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff planned a very memorable evening that began at Todd's elegant condo on Lake Shore
Party hosts with the most Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff.
Drive. It was all old world elegance combined with modern touches. Multiple views of the lake and the city could be seem from every room that was decorated Art Deco-style with the original moldings and 1920s limestone fireplace intact. Everywhere Todd went, his beloved dog
With Frances Renk, Monica Canellis, Sherry Lea Holson and Lou Canellis at AVLI.
Lucy followed, even placing herself perfectly for the group photo. Lucky guests included Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jeff Shea and his wife Melissa, Chris Renk, Chuck, Sherry Lea Holson, Kadmiel Christmas and Dede Lubeznik. Following cocktails at Todd's, we headed over to the new Lincoln Park hotspot, AvliTaverna(1335 W. Wrightwood). This Greek restaurant is an offshoot of the one in suburban Winnetka, both owned
BD boy Paul Iacono with Jennifer Sutton and Dr. Joaquin Brieva.
by Louie Alexakis. The Lincoln Park spot includes sportscaster Lou Canellis as part of the crew. He greeted us warmly, along with his glam wife Monica (with baby in tow). It's a family spot for sure with delicious dishes that include great small plates and mains like moussaka tselementes (a 1910 casserole recipe of roasted lamb, bechamel, eggplant and potatoes). A Greek Feast BBQ Lamb requires a 24 hour pre-order. Everything was DELICIOUS with a capital D! Happy BD Paul and thanks for Avli, Louis and Lou!
Watch out Antiques Roadshow, a new show debuted Sunday night on Me-TV! "Collector's Call" showcases people with unique collections with a surprising twist at the end! Check it
Our segment will be the season finale on June 23 with Leslie Hindman and Thomas Joyce.
out every Sunday at 9 pm central. (Listings here!) (The show is on RCN channel 14 in Chicago.) AND, mark your calendar for June 23, when my segment is featured as the season finale with Leslie Hindman as a trusty advisor and book appraiser Thomas Joyce!
Best wishes and good luck to my friend/fellow Chicago Now blogger Sabrina Nixon on her latest children's book, "The Adventures of Kameron." This beautifully illustrated book follows the journey of Kameron, a young boy with autism, that is based on the story of her real life son. It helps provide an understanding of this often misunderstood disorder in a fun and colorful manner. (To order, click here) April is Autism Awareness Month!
FashionBar Chicago(Tony Long and team) presented a series of well-attended fashion
With FashionBar's Tony Long and friend.
shows to spotlight Chicago Fashion Week recently. The week started with an Evening Wear collection previewed at Joy District. The following shows were held at Water Tower Place and included
Design by Jackie Holloway-The Jackie O Experience.
a Trans, Media & Fashion, Modern Minimalist, Beautiful Business, Urban Ready Wear and Resort & Swimwear shows. We attended the Trans, Media & Fashion Show that benefited Howard Brown Health Center. Models from the Broadway Youth Center captivated attendees presenting looks from some of Chicago's hottest designers. (JackieHolloway –Jackie O Experience- was a personal favorite!) Don't miss this event next year as FashionBar Chicago "raises the bar" for Windy City style!
Former President George Bush receives the Leadership Prize from ALPLF. (Photo by Ana Miyares)
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation (ALPLF) presented former President George W. Bush with ALPLF’s Lincoln Leadership Prize at the Mariott Marquis Chicago on April 1. While the event was closed to media, you know Candid Candace has her sources! Congrats to former President Bush and thanks RJ Bruce!
Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, with James Gourley.
It was such an incredible night at the Geraghty for UNICEF's12th annual gala. From the interactive installations to the sexy Moroccan vide to the keynote speaker, the event drove the point home about the need to support humanity (children in particular) in crises throughout the world. Speaker Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, spoke about her iconic relative and the impact she had helping children in her role as UNICEF ambassador. See this moving video here and check my Chicago Tribune column for details coming soon!
There are so many worthwhile charities that are hosting yearly fundraisers. Please check out some of my favorites: On Thursday, September 19 (Chuck's birthday), Haute Dog Chicago returns for the 4th year to the Peninsula. Benefiting Canine Companions for Independence, the evening will feature a doggie runway show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions, with lots of local notables! Click here for tickets/more info!
Holiday Heroes' annual gala returns on Thursday, June 13, at Theater on the Lake (2401 N. Lake Shore Drive). This is the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit that benefits hospitalized children in the Chicagoland area and, this year, the Heart of a Hero honoree will be Kristina McGrath. For tickets, more info, click here!
The Ingalls Development Foundation will host its annual benefit on Saturday, June 1, at the Tinley Park Convention Center. The event will raise funds to help improve the health of the Chicago Southland communities served by Ingalls and feature legendary entertainer Smokey Robinson. The night will include a VIP reception, dinner and program. For tickets, $125, and more info, click here!
On Saturday, May 4, the Howard Brown Health Center will present ChiQ, a fundraiser that raises money for the Center's women's services, at the South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive). HBH was founded in 1974 and is now one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) organizations in the country serving more than 35,000 adults and youth each year. For tickets/more info, click here!
The Goodman Theatre will host its annual gala, "Starstruck," on Saturday, May 18, at the Fairmont. The event will benefit the theatre's programming and outreach and feature Tony Award nominee Megan Hilty. (For tickets/info, click here!) Also, mark your calendars for Monday, July 8, the opening night of their big musical revival of "The Music Man"!
The Commercial Finance Association (CFA) will present its "CFA Cares Spring Gala" on Friday, May 10 at the Ivy Room (12 E. Ohio). This year's event will benefit Imerman Angels, a nonprofit that provides one-on-one free cancer support. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
The Chinese American Service League will host its 40th anniversary Spring Gala on Thursday, May 9, at Morgan Manufacturing. This year's event will honor Michael Tang with the Golden Lion award. Thanks CASL for all the good you do in the community! For tickets/more info, click here! (Proud to be a host committee member along with Judy Hsu, Linda Yu, Joanie Lum and others!)
The 2019 Newberry Library Awards Dinner will be held on Monday, May 6. The evening will bid a fond farewell to David Spadafora, president and librarian, and honor Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilynne Robinson for her outstanding achievements and support. For tickets, more info, click here!
The Music Institute of Chicago will honor acclaimed trumpet player, bandleader, composer and educator Wynton Marsalis with the prestigious Dushkin Award at the Four Seasons on Monday, May 20. The celebration will also recognize philanthropic and civic leaders Caryn and King Harris and Susan Charles. For tickets/more info, click here!
The 14th Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism benefit will support the work of the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs on Thursday, April 18, at the Club. The Ring Lardner Award, that honors excellence in sports journalism, will be presented to Peggy Kusinski (NBC 5), Mike Downey and Lacy Banks (posthumously). Presenters will include Linda Yu (ABC-7/Sun-Times) and former Chicago Bull Bill Cartwright. For tickets, $200, and more info, click here!
The "Art of Caring: Compassionate with Purpose" benefit will celebrate 30 years of support by the Catholic Charities of Lake County. The event will be held on Saturday, April 6 at the Armour House Mansion and Gardens and include a gourmet dinner, dancing, music by LFC Entertainment and more! This fundraiser has raised more than $5.8 million and supports 28 lake county programs including Meals on Wheels and Diaper Depot. For tickets/more info, click here!
Olympian Michael Phelps will host a star-studded benefit on May 19.
Olympian Michael Phelps will host "Golf. Give. Gala," an event to benefit his Michael Phelps Foundation on Sunday, May 19, at the Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois. Influential guests will include Patrick Sharp (Blackhawks), Tim Tebow (NFL), Taylor Kinney ("Chicago Fire"), Kerry Wood (Cubs), David Ross (Cubs), Ben Higgins and Colton Underwood ("The Bachelor"), Jeremy Piven (actor), Drew Scott ("Property Brothers") and more! A surprise musical performance is scheduled too! The Foundation supports water-safety, wellness, and goal-setting programs for Boys & Girls Clubs of America members and Special Olympics International athletes. The following day, May 20, Phelps will also host a golf tourney. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
The Driehaus Design Initiative will present the Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence runway show competition on Friday, April 26, at Chicago Vintage Motor Carriage (700 S. Desplaines St.) Produced by ZZAZZ Productions, the designers will be judged by a celebrity panel to determine the winner, who will receive a check for $7,500, the production of a look book and an apparel display at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Neiman's Wendy Krimins will select one designer to receive the Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award that will include a window display at the Michigan Avenue store as well. For tickets/more info, click here!
The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation will host its 13th annual medical briefing luncheon, "Unlocking the Secrets & the Silence" on Wednesday, May 8 at the Casino (195 E. Delaware Pl.) This year's Shining Star Award will be presented to Mary Ellen McGrath in recognition of her support, leadership and commitment to the Foundation. For tickets, $250, and more info click here!
On Friday, May 3, High Jump Chicago (HJC) will present its annual Spring Opportunity Benefit at the Four Seasons Chicago. This is the organization's signature fundraising event to raise funds for tuition-free programs for Chicago middle school students from families with limited financial means. Notable guests will include Meredith Bluhm-Wolf, Priscilla Kersten, Jack Ferro and Michael Episcope. For tickets/more info, click here!
F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment) will host its annual benefit at the Chicago Yacht Club (Monroe harbor) on Saturday, April 13. The evening will feature local artists competing and displaying their extraordinary skills through song and dance, a buffet, dancing and more. For tickets/more info, click here! (This wonderful benefit was founded by Lily Liu of Lily's Talent Agency, of which I'm proudly registered! Kudos Lily!)
And last but not least, please join Michael Caputo and me when we return as co-chairs for Eversight Illinois'Gift of Sight Gala set for Thursday, October 24, back at the Peninsula! We'll be honoring Sherry Lea Holson as the Woman of Vision. We are planning LOTS of surprises so prepare to expect the unexpected at this creative black-tie masquerade party to benefit sight restoration. For tickets/more info, please click here!
I hope you've enjoyed the latest edition! It's thrilling to be able to cover all the wonderful goings on here in our great city (and beyond!) If you have a story to share, please email me at candacejordan@rcn.com and, if not a subscriber, please sign in HERE!
…PLUS HARRIS THEATER’S PARIS OPERA BALLET/GRAFF LAUNCH PARTY, JOFFREY’S POINTE OF DEPARTURE, TOP CHEEKY CHICKS 2012, GIBSON’S CHARITABLE NYE CONTRIBUTION, “THE DINNER PARTY” AND MUCH MORE!
My, my, my…it’s 2012 already and I feel like I barely scratched the surface of 2011! We were so lucky to spend our New Year’s Eve this year with old and new friends in Florida. Newlyweds ICB’s Bob Mills and Kim Venezia Mills combined their wedding celebration with a New Year’s Eve party and the results were outstanding! An evening boat ride through the waterways of the Intracoastal eating, drinking and dancing while viewing the most magnificent display of holiday lights I’ve seen outside of the Griswold home! Every mansion was draining electricity like an alcoholic downs whiskey. And yes, we were enjoying adult beverages as well along with every other food group you can think of. Kim missed her calling as a social director but I’m sure glad she was ours! Kim, along with Bob and their respective families, made a group of around 60 guests feel so very welcome in every way. Every day, there was a BBQ, dinner or a pool get-together and I loved meeting their wonderful friends who had flown in from all across the country to celebrate with the new lovebirds. Congrats, Mr. and Mrs. Mills and watch for their upcoming launch of Chicago’s Online Network, Watch312.com, now with eight shows in production! (To view many more fun Florida pics, please click here!)
I’m always so interested in everyone’s New Year’s Eve plans so I quizzed some VICs (Very Important Chicagoans) to see just what they were up to on the eve of 2012:
I have always loved Nate Berkus…he was the first person to host The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails at the Illuminating Company on February 8, 2007, at the request of my co-founder and friend, Helen Melchior, and he will always be a VIC in my heart. His exciting NYE was spent at Playacar Palace in Cancun celebrating event planner extraordinaire Colin Cowie’s 50th birthday. Other VIP guests included Padma Lakshmi, Niche Media’s Jason and Haley Binn, Clear Channel’s Bob Pittman, Chef Todd English and NBC’s Ted Harbert. Natalie Cole even sang “Unforgettable.” Niceeeee…
And even though this event happened LAST NYE, I certainly thought it was worthy of inclusion: I mean how many people have intimate dinners with HRH Prince Charles in his own home!!?!?! I’ll tell you who, the dynamic Natasha Isaacs and her handsome husband, Michael. Natasha was allowed to invite whomever she wanted and, of course, she invited her dearest friends (who are equally gorgeous) Eva and Cezar Jakubowski along with Bozena and Arie Zwieg. The occasion was to thank them for their fundraising efforts for the Shakespeare Theater that’s being built in Gdansk, a project they’re both passionate about. And who could ever say no to Natasha anyway? 🙂
Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan and her handsome husband Tom had quite a night, too. They dined at Charlie Trotter’s and during the course of the evening, Charlie dropped the bombshell announcement that he is leaving the industry to pursue philosophy! Susanna said it made the evening even more special knowing this would be the last NYE celebration at Charlie’s historic restaurant.
Gibson’s Restaurant’s Kathy O’Malley Piccone and John Colletti, along with 75 volunteers (mostly staff) served more than 300 people for Catholic Charities at the restaurant New Year’s Day…after they had served almost 1,000 customers for dinner the night before! Special guests arrived at noon and enjoyed steaks, shrimp cocktails, garbage salads and chicken with all of the trimmings. They were also given goody bags that included warm hats, gloves, scarves and tooth paste and toothbrushes. I LOVE THIS PLACE and their staff – especially Kathy – all of whom are just too wonderful for words!
Beautiful Gayle Anthony’s equally gorgeous sister, Julie Weindling and her beau Phil Geier, spent NYE at Round Hill Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where they hobnobbed with Sir Paul McCartney and his new wife Nancy, daughter Stella and their kids including Beatrice, his daughter from Heather Mills. Also seen at this posh resort were Ewan McGregor, Ralph and Ricky Lauren and Lauren Bush. WHEW! What a hotspot!
Celebrity scribe and TV personality Bill Zwecker and his partner, real estate broker extraordinaire Tom Gorman spent an exciting NYE at Linda Johnson Rice’s spectacular mountaintop home in Palm Springs. Seen on the scene were Desiree Rogers, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, James Bell (Boeing CFO) and wife Mary, Sue Leonis and others. Awwww…what a life!
Darling freelance writer and Chicago magazine nightlife reporter Amalie Drury always has fun wherever she goes and this night was no exception! Her friends Megan and Alex Menocal hosted a dinner party at their Albany Park apartment where they all enjoyed a “beautiful” grilled rib roast, smoked salmon and butternut squash Wellington. They drank countless bottles of champagne, played board games and danced in the living room and, at midnight, Alex played “Auld Lang Syne” on his guitar while they all sang along. Sounds like a perfect night with friends! Love you, AD!
Man-about-town-but-with-a-serious-job Paul Iacono spent NYE with a “triple header” beginning with a dinner at Piccolo Sogno with Elizabeth Brodsky and her family and friends at 7 p.m. sharp. At 10 p.m., he was off to ring in the New Year with bottle service at the Pump Room at Public Chicago, where he and his buddy Brian Thompson occupied Booth One, of course, which was reserved for eight and included Brian’s girlfriend Kristin Atchison, Cindy Burns and Spiro Megremis, Kevin Wright, Emily Greenaway and Rhea Lyn. Restaurant Director Jay Schuster was “spot on” and the evening included a midnight champagne toast..but Paul’s night wasn’t over yet! He concluded his NYE at the home of Shabbir Helaly with glam girls Monika Dixon, Saira Cooper and their cute hubbies…life is good in the World of Iacono! Maybe this could be a ride at Universal?
CheekyChicago.com founders Erica Bethe Levin and Jessica Zweig know how to party, too, of course! Erica (along with handsome Terry) dined at NAHA for their annual tradition, enjoying Chef Carrie Nahabedian’s magical dinners that included lobster risotto this year. Jessica hosted a party with 15 of her best friends at her home. Her “date” for the night was Lisa Frame, founder of MugShotMonday.com. After, a stretch limo (courtesy of Uber) took them to Whistler, a mixology-focused hipster bar in Logan Square, where they danced their cheeky cheeks off!
Biz Bash’s Jenny Berg and her BF Dustin Berta spent NYE at Playboy’s party at the Hilton Chicago where they rang in midnight with a confetti explosion, a kiss and a Bunny at the turntable. NBC’s handsome Marcus Riley also attended the Playboy party but not before making dinner for his glam model girlfriend, Nicole Townsend, accompanied by a couple of bottles of champagne. After, they attended friend Justin Jacobson’s Hard Rock Chicago event before the final stop at the Hilton to party with the Bunnies.
Reality star and Edrop-Off’s Corri McFadden rang in the New Year with her love Spiro Tsaparas and friends for a simple, low-key dinner at Le Colonial. Although NOTHING is low-key in Corri’s world including her Louboutins that she’s rockin’ in this pic!
Auctioneer extraordinaire Leslie Hindman spent the New Year in style in Paris with long-time friends Mary Lou Gorno and Ann Tomlinson with her charming college-aged kids at Le Grand Colbert. (BTW, Leslie is opening more auction houses around the country so more good things to come for Leslie Hindman Auctioneers!)
CS Magazine’s Samantha Saifer Berngard, along with her hubby and friends, dined at Tony Mantuano’s new restaurant Bar Toma. Afterwards, they headed over to the Hard Rock Hotel where they listened to their wedding band, The Gold Coast All Stars, perform with a few special guests including Hey Champ, American Idol’s Lee DeWyze and O.A.R.’s Chris Culos. CS sponsored the event and they all danced the night away!
Foodarazzi blogger/XA’s Amanda Puck kicked off the night with BF Jerome Weitzel and friends at Big Star for some tacos and bourbon. Then they returned home for their second annual French Onion Soup Fete where they prepared a soup recipe from the October issue of Bon Appetit. (Watch for Amanda’s new internet show, “Dish It,” coming soon on Watch312.com!)
Fabulous in every way designer Pamella Roland (DeVos) has just become a VIC having recently bought a beautiful new home here! For NYE she and her glam family, along with their friends, sailed the seas near Cabo on her luxury yacht.
(For space reasons, I wasn’t able to include all of the exciting NYE happenings so to see what ALL of the VIC’s did for NYE, please check out my jam-packed Chicago Now column here!)
More than 100 of Chicago’s arts and civic leaders joined presenting sponsors/co-chairs Caryn and King Harris and Alexandra and John Nichols along with Gala Presenting Sponsor, GRAFF, in celebrating the announcement of the Chicago debut engagement by the Paris Opera Ballet coming in June. This event has been described as “one of the most significant projects for Chicago’s arts community in decades.” The launch party was held at Graff on Oak Street and included VIP guests Anne and J. Christopher Reyes, Suzette Bulley, Consul General of France Graham Paul, Margaret Unetich, Paul and Kelly Kaiser, David and Luann Blowers, Sandy and Jack Guthman, Lori Gray Faversham, Ken Norgan, Maya Polsky and Nicolas Bridon, Maria Zec, Dori Wilson and Elton Dixon among others. The Gala, on June 26th, will debut the Paris Opera Ballet’s “Giselle” and mark the company’s first return to America in more than a decade. Mayor Rahm Emanuel will be Honorary Chair. For tickets and more info please visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl.)
I mentioned the CheekyChicago.com founders’ NYE plans a bit earlier and now I am thrilled to announce the Top 10 Cheeky Chicks of 2012! They include *drumroll please* Kiran Advani (Programming Director, Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture), Bridget Albert (Mixologist, Southern Wine & Spirits), Maryilene Blondell (Development Director, The ALS Assn.), Leah Chavie (Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique), Jackie Chen (Exec. Chef Chicago Cut Steakhouse), Allison Cooke (Marketing Mngr. CS Mag), Charity Gonzalez (Founder UrbanFitClubs.com), Melissa Muoio (personal stylist) and Ashley Zisook (owner Sofia Boutique). What a great list of CHEEKY CHICKS – congrats to ALL!
The Auxiliary Board of The Joffrey Ballet presents their second annual Pointe of Departure event on Thursday, January 26th from 6 – 9 p.m., at a NEW venue this year, Venue Six/10 at the Spertus Institute, located at 610 S. Michigan Ave. Joffrey dancers including Temur Suluashvili and Matthew Adamczyk will again be contributing amazing artwork as well as man
y other artists. Fab fotog/artist/jeweler Mila Samokhina will also be donating an exquisite piece entitled “Illusion.” The after-party will be at TZAR (215 W. Ontario), another new venue for this unique and much-loved event. Besides the original artwork, the evening will also include DJ Sadie Woods, cocktails and Wolfgang Puck’s tasty hors d’oeuvres plus a silent auction! Tickets can be purchased here or by calling 312.386.8979. Congrats in advance to co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella and their dynamic committee! See you all soon!
Congrats to Fear No Art’s Elysabeth Alfano, one of the hardest working women in show business, on the birth of her latest production, “The Dinner Party.” This live artist talk show takes place at the Mayne Stage Theatre and will launch on January 30th. “The Dinner Party” happens onstage over wine and appetizers created by celebrity chefs in front of a live audience and will stream live on the internet at www.FearNoART.tv. MOTO Chef Homaro Cantu will be featured in the first production along with guest artists Tony Fitzpatrick, Jon Langford and Rachel Rockwell. Get your tix here!
So 2012 is off to a roaring start! I hope all of your wishes come true this year and that you keep enjoying Candid Candace!
P.S. Thanks to CS Magazine for including this blog in their "Best of the City 2012" book (the "Follow the Leaders" article). I am honored and thrilled!
The Center for Enriched Living will host a virtual Chef's Night on Monday, June 28. Watch website for details coming soon! 
For the past 28 years, Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation has hosted the annual Bear Tie Ball. This event is the nonprofit's largest fundraiser of the year, empowering them to bring joy and hope to children battling cancer. Although this year looks different, families continue to need their support. On May 1, "Bear Tie Ball: Untied," a virtual event, will feature a video showcasing the families, kids, supporters and more. Please consider tuning in/donating or both, here.
Children's Place will celebrate 30 years of supporting Chicago's most vulnerable kids with its annual gala, this year honoring Alex Kotlowitz and Maria Woltjen. (Click here for details!) 
Special thanks to Chicago State Foundation and its executive director Darrious Hilmon for featuring me on "5 Questions with…", a short video series that highlights both local and 
national leaders and professionals. The series lives on their YouTube channel. My segment is below. (Chicago State Foundation advances the interest and welfare of Chicago State University by building relationships, securing philanthropic support and more. Read all about it here).
