Tag Archives: LGBTQ

Plus: Retrospect Chicago; Losing a champion; CECA Impact Awards; Chicago's cool James Beard parties; Rita Hayworth Gala; Alexian Brothers "Bal de Fleur"; Chicago CAC Luminary Awards; Chicago Jazz Orchestra celebrates 40; Ronald McDonald House Gala; Celebrating Vonita; Bloom 'n Toss; Service Club's Earlybirds & Bookworms; Wedding bells ring for beloved Chicago couple; Simply From the Heart's 1st Women's Luncheon; Mexican Museum's Gala de Arte; Hindman's brand new branding; Gene Siskel Film Center hosts Favreau and Downey; OUT of Office; Coop hops on; Met Gala musings; Darling videos and so much MORE!

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SOS Children's Villages Illinois celebrated Foster Care Awareness Month by hosting "Dining & Conversation," a star-studded unique dining experience held on the

stage at the Pritzker Pavilion to bring awareness and raise funds for the nonprofit's foster care program. The May 1 event, a sellout with nearly 200 guests, began with a meet-and-greet with the "Luminaries" who included

advocate/actor Christian Bale, Gillian Flynn (best-selling author/screenwriter), Lou Canellis (Fox sports anchor), David Eigenberg (actor, Chicago Fire), Josh Earnest (CCO United Airlines),

Zach Filkins (Grammy nominated lead guitarist for OneRepublic), Elayne Granger (director, AT & T External Affairs), Leslie Hindman (founder/chair Hindman Auctions), Star Jones (attorney/TV host/ journalist), Adam McKay (Academy

Award-winning director/screenwriter), Jamie Rhee (Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation), Dr. Stuart Strahl (president/CEO Chicago Zoological Society), Scott

Turow (author/attorney), Anna Valencia (City Clerk of Chicago), Jenny Wray (professional foster parent, SOS Children's Villages Illinois) and yours truly. The concept for the evening was unique, with

each Luminary sharing a course,  about 10 minutes, at each of the 15 tables. The 15 course menu was prepared by celebrity chefs who generously donated

their time and talents. They included Chefs Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Ryan Pitts (RL Restaurant), Dan McGee and Liz Plascencia (Swisshotel Chicago), Louie Alexakis (Avli), John Coletta (Quartino Ristorante),

Federico Comacchio (Coco Pazzo), Graham Crowe (mixologist at TWO), Kevin Cuddihee (Porter Kitchen and Deck), George Jewell (Jewell Events Catering), Tom Van Lente (TVL Culinary), Nicole Raftery and Raki Mehra (Morton's The Steakhouse) and Chris Gawronski (The Gage). A program, emceed by

Micah Materre, included introductory remarks from Tim McCormick (CEO), Jim Wolfe (board president) and Michael Landers (with title sponsor Sodexo). Tevin Marbeth, an SOS

Illinois alumni, spoke passionately about his foster care experience at SOS, where siblings are always kept together. He said he was "surrounded by immense love and support" at the Villages. Marbeth excelled at school, earning a Bachelor's Degree of Fine Arts in Acting from Northern Illinois University. SOS Illinois CEO Tim McCormick shared, "May is an important month because it amplifies the good and uplifting work we do at SOS

Illinois every day of the year to strengthen families and transform lives…By Luminaries and Celebrity Chefs adding their voices to the conversation, it further magnifies awareness for a vulnerable

group of individuals who often are marginalized by society."  SOS Children’s Villages Illinois, founded over 25 years ago, is a 501(c)3 child welfare agency that provides a stable home in a supportive, community environment designed to help children in need grow into caring, productive, and self-reliant adults. This model differs from traditional foster care in emphasizing the following four components: 1) Children live together with

their siblings, 2) Children receive care and support from a full-time, professionally trained Foster Parent, 3) Children grow up in a private, single-family home, 4) Children are supported by the Village, designed as a model of community of care. SOS Illinois celebrates a 100% high school

graduation rate, compared to a national average of 50% for children in foster care. SOS Children's Villages International, the parent organization of SOS Illinois, began in 1945 and today is the largest non-denominational child welfare organization in the world with more than 73,400 children living in over 550 SOS Villages in more than 130 countries. The event was co-chaired by SOS board members Rama Dandamudi, Jonah Siegellak and Jim Wolfe (board president).(A personal thanks and shout-out to my friend, SOS board member Mary Pat Burns for getting me involved with this wonderful organization!)

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Dominic DiFrisco. His passing on April 28 at age 85 has left a hole in Chicago's heart that will never be filled. A champion of the underdog, an ambassador for the Italian/American community, a mentor, a friend, husband, father and so much

more, Dominic was a game changer. Everyone he touched was forever changed for the better. One would often see Dominic stationed in his regular booth (back left) at Gene & Georgetti's restaurant, one of his favorite spots. And, more often than not, he would be offering advice and

mentorship to anyone who was lucky enough to sit with him. He gave me very valuable advice on a shady champagne deal so, yes, I've been blessed by his knowledge too. The restaurant even put a sign on his

booth after his passing, closing it down for a week, in memory of its much loved guest. Dominic's passing has been major news in Chicago and rightfully so. The Cubs stopped regular programming to run the sad news during a game and the Sun-Times put him on the front

page, where he belonged. Channel 7 was even at his funeral, which was standing room only. Dominic was a true Renaissance man. We used to see him at the opera, always impeccably dressed. We were on the Gold Coast too, to witness the dedication of a street, Dominc DiFrisco Way, at Schiller and Astor. He loved sports, music, fine dining and, of course, his beautiful family–daughter Nina and her husband Bob Mariano,

wife Carol Loverde DiFrisco and, of course, his grandson Pasquale Dominic Gianni. The service itself, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii Church, was one for the ages with five of the city's most popular and revered priests involved–celebrant Reverend Richard Fragomeni (rector of the

church) and concelebrants Msgr. Ken Velo, Rev. Jack Wall, Rev. John Belmonte, Rev. George Clements and Rev. Michael Caruso. Serving as pallbearers were Bob Allegrini, Joe Gagliardo, Dr. Stephen Gallo, Mark Giangreco, Dr. Joe Hennessy, John LaSage, Jim Loverde, Peter Loverde, Andrew Moore, Lou Belpedio, Lou Rago, Antonio Romanucci and Vito Rubino. Honorary pallbearers included Frank Caruso, Dominic DiFazio, Sue and Don Mazzoni, Art Nasser, Michael Sturch and honorary friends from Gene & Georgetti's. There wasn't a dry eye in the church as Dominic had meant so much, in some way, to all in attendance. The light of his life, his grandson Pasquale, gave the eulogy. You could tell his grandfather, who he called papa, had taught him well as he never faltered once in his

delivery, receiving applause and even a standing ovation

afterwards. Besides Dominic's many accomplishments (too many to mention here), Pasquale spoke about his grandfather's love for the Yankees and, in particular his hero, Joe DiMaggio, although he did get him to attend, and eventually love, Cubs' games too. Every notable in town seemed to be in attendance at the church, that even offered valet parking. Refreshments were offered next door and longtime family friend, Joey DiBuono, was even spotted serving. Former Mayor Rich Daley, Terry Newman, Mayor Elect Lori Lightfoot, Alderman Ed Burke, Pat Arbor, Karen and Phil Stefani, Stella Foster, Alderman

Walter Burnett. Alderman Patrick Daley Thompson. Commissioner Michael Cabonargi, Marion and Tony Durpetti, Amanda Puck, Jamie Gabala, Whitey Pearson, Terry Pearson Jr., chefs Tony Priolo, Ciro Longobardo, Giuseppe Tentori, Phil Stefani, Bill Kim and Donnie Madia, John Zajak, Rich Ciotta, Tom Kehoe, Donna Rotunno, Mark O'Malley, Tracey and Joey DiBuono (longtime family friends), Kathy O'Malley

Piccone, John Colletti, Martha and John Idler, Diana Palomar, Charles Ifergan, Susanna Homan, Pat and Joe Perillo, Tony Abruscato, Mary and Jim Lasky, Elizabeth Bertucci, Alan Kaye, Liza Sweitzer and Cheri

James, to name a few, were all in attendance. A celebration of life followed at Dominic's favorite spot, G & Gs, which was closed for the occasion. He was larger than life and, like Cher, he only needed one name. Dominic. Everyone knew who you meant. His life was full and rich and ours was too, just by knowing him. Dominic, thanks for all you did and for the man you were. You taught us all how to live and love life.

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Restrospect Chicago brought the super stars of vintage to Chicago for a debut fashion experience like none other! Brought to you by Image Pilots (Randolph

Street Market, Sally Schwartz), the 4-day extravaganza began with a screening of the 1957 classic film "Funny Face" at the Music Box Theatre on May 2 starring everyone's favorite fashion idol, Audrey Hepburn. Friday night was a "first look" at the over 50 dealers (expertly curated by Kathy Aronstam) whose variety of couture and luxury offerings (men's and women's clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes, accessories, textiles and notions from the 1890s to 1990s) were the best I've seen in one place. Every iconic

designer/brand you could think of was "in 'da house"! A fashion show, produced by Randolph Market ambassador Nena Ivon and benefiting the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, featured an eclectic collection of fashions/accessories worn by vintage enthusiasts Tanner Chapman, Mark Olley, Andrea Reynders, Tom Mentel, Stuart Dyer, Kristen Finney Cooke, Dustin Ericstrup, Annette Findling, Jason Hopkins, Maggie Morgan, Sherrill Bodine, Jerry Svec, Tanya Primus and yours truly. It was a great market that lasted through the weekend. Some of my best finds were at Vintage Le Monde and Lofty Vintage, but every booth offered something unique and lust-worthy. I can't wait for it to return! Thanks for upping Chicago's vintage game Sally! You just rock!

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I was so thrilled to be recognized by the Catering Executives Club of America at its annual Scholarship Ball along with Lanie Hartman (BBJ Linens) and Julie Novack (PartySlate)

with the organization's Impact Award. The event on April 28 at the Peggy Notebaert Museum was a record-breaker with lots of friends, supporters and industry peeps in attendance. The weather broke for a minute and there was actually sunshine so we were able to have cocktails inside and out during the President's Reception at this beautiful

museum that houses one of my favorite spaces, the butterfly room! Wendy Cutka, CECA president, graciously welcomed guests who were surrounded by

sparkling crystal, golden tablecloths and giant bowls of peonies (my fave!). The dinner, catered by Calihan Catering featured caviar tortes, asparagus bisque, beef tenderloin and strawberry short cake. Fig Media's James Gustin and Andre LaCour were the official photogs and donated a lot of their time making the evening perfect. Kehoe Designs,

another sponsor, added more sparkle with a campy illustrated stand-up display of the honorees, among other delights. The event raises funds for scholarships for students in the hospitality industry and, on this night, the winners were Elizabeth Doll and Elizabeth Redhead. Special thanks to dear friend Robert Neubert (who broke the news about my award), Joe Monastero (whose introduction brought me to

tears) and my wonderfully supportive friends/tablemates Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Paul Iacono, Michael Caputo, Frances Renk, Mary Pat Burns, Sheila O'Grady, John Robak, Bethany Florek, Mark Olley and Tracey Tarantino. So lucky you're all in my life! Thanks for (still) taking my emails/calls! (For more info and how you can support CECA, please click here!)

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Loved all the excitement in town surrounding the James Beard Awards (with major wins from the Boka Boys, Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm!). One of the events, benefiting the James Beard Foundation, was held at Ralph Lauren’s RL Restaurant where a celebratory cocktail

gathering attracted stars, restaurateurs and local notables alike. The benefit was hosted by Kerry Diamond of Cherry Bombe, Hunter Lewis of Food & Wine and Adam Rapoport of Bon Appétit. Clare Reichenbach, the newly appointed CEO of the James Beard Foundation, also attended the

event, giving a brief speech about the organization’s new mission for 2019 and beyond. Dishes from Ralph Lauren's famed New York restaurant, The Polo Bar, were served alongside favorites from RL Restaurant, including mini lobster rolls, bountiful seafood towers, mini Polo Bar burgers, smoked salmon

atop potato pancakes and pigs in a blanket. Signature cocktails from the two restaurants were served, including the Gold Coast Royale made with Grey Goose vodka and the Ridgway Margarita made with Roca Patron tequila. Notable guests included actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson, actress Zoey Deschanel, entrepreneur Ellen Marie Bennett, chefs Rochelle Trotter, Andrew Zimmern, Danielle Chang (Lucky Rice), JJ Johnson, author/chef Kwame Onwuach, Nicolas Jammet (Sweetgreen) and more.

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More than 600 guests celebrated the 32^nd annual Alzheimer’s Association Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala

(underwritten by Rolex) on May 4 at the Hilton Chicago. The event raised more than $1 million to support the critical work of the Alzheimer's Association’s research, care and support programs. This year’s theme, “The Key to Our Future,” was inspired by Paris’ world-famous Pont des Arts (the Love Lock Bridge) and brought together supporters passionate about unlocking a world without Alzheimer’s disease. The gala, which stands as one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s

marquee fundraising events of the year, was led by co-chairs and avid supporters, the Murphy family: Dan J. Murphy Jr., JoAnn Murphy, Dan Murphy III and Jim Murphy. The Murphy family shares a personal connection to the disease as Dan Jr.’s mother passed away from

Alzheimer’s in 2011. Each year the gala recognizes individuals who have a personal connection to Alzheimer’s and are working diligently to use their platform to raise awareness and provide support for those impacted by the disease. This year’s “Legacy Award” honored Joan and Paul Rubschlager for their longtime efforts

supporting the cause. The “Caregiver Award” was presented to Jay Allen and his father Joseph Rich, along with his sisters, Amber Rich and Casandra Robertson. Known for his 2018 song, “Blank Stares” inspired by his mother Sherry Rich who passed away from Alzheimer’s, Jay Allen has received worldwide

recognition for this special song, which has accumulated over 200 million views on social media. (He performed it at the gala).  Dan Murphy Jr., co-chair, said “My family and I were so honored to be

part of this year’s Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala and immensely grateful for everyone’s dedication to making it such a success. It was such a beautiful evening comprised of passionate Chicagoans striving to work towards a world without Alzheimer’s. We continue to be amazed by Princess Yasmin and her mission to use her mother’s legacy to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease with her valiant commitment to this annual gala.” (Photos by Bill Richert)

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With the Chicago River as the backdrop, more than 450 guests joined together for the 33rd annual Alexian Brothers Ball Fleur on

May 4 helping to raise $725,000 to expand access to highly specialized services for community members living with behavioral health disorders. The Ball de Fleur is the Alexian Brothers Foundation’s premier philanthropic event, and the five most recent galas have raised $3.25 million to support behavioral medicine programs and services as part of a multi-year “One Life at a Time” vision for behavioral health. “We are committed to bringing more attention to those who struggle with mental illness and addiction,” said Mark Frey, president and CEO, AMITA Health. The theme for this year’s gala was “A Night at the Rockwell … Instilling Hope One Life at a Time.” Supporters of the Alexian Brothers and AMITA Health family mingled during a lively

cocktail hour at the relatively new industrial venue, Rockwell on the River. The space features floor-to-

ceiling windows and exposed brick and timber that set off the elegant silver and blue table décor beautifully. Guests enjoyed a four-course gourmet dinner and an opening program that included an impactful video that shared the story of a woman who has been in recovery

from her longtime (13 year) eating disorder, thanks to the treatment she received at AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital in Hoffman Estates. “This is where hope starts,” she said. Guests were also treated to tasting stations from Metropolitan Brewing and Metropolis Coffee and dance music by the popular TC Squared band. Frey took to the stage and revealed that this year’s gala would be an exciting bridge for change — marking the last time it would be under the name of the Alexian Brothers – with the 2020 Ball to reflect the joint AMITA Health system, which comprises 19 hospitals and serves more than 4.3 million residents in the greater Chicagoland area.

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Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (ChicagoCAC) held its 5th annual Luminary Award Dinner at the Four Seasons Chicago on May 2. This year’s event honored Pat and Betsy Canning (of KPMG) for lighting the path toward hope and healing for Chicago’s children. The event, co-chaired by Justin Hoss and Virginia Seggerman, raised a record $690,000 for ChicagoCAC. Funds raised are going toward programs and services that help restore the lives of children and families impacted by child sexual abuse. Pat serves as board chair for both the United Way of Metro Chicago and for Kids First Chicago, where he has helped to impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of children and families. Betsy has served as the co-chair of KPMG’s Family for Literacy for several years, where she has helped put over 875,000 books in the hands of young readers in Chicago. Keynote speaker Cook County State’s Attorney Kimberly Foxx delivered a passionate speech about her experience as a survivor of child sexual abuse and the importance of supporting the work of ChicagoCAC. More than 450 corporate, civic and political leaders and friends of ChicagoCAC attended. 

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The Chicago Jazz Orchestra (CJO) hosted its 40th Anniversary Gala celebrating four decades as Chicago's longest running professional jazz orchestra at the Palmer House on March 29. The event attracted a capacity crowd of nearly 250 Chicago jazz fans to the Palmer House Hilton’s historic Empire Room for an evening of drinks, hors d'oeuvres, dance and classic big band jazz. Guest artist René Marie, a nationally loved jazz vocalist, was in fine form, backed by CJO founder

and artistic director Jeff Lindberg, and Chicago’s premiere jazz ensemble: Scott Burns, Jerry DiMuzio, Rajiv Halim, Bill Overton, Eric Schneider and John Wojciechowski on saxophone; Victor Garcia, Tage Larsen, Bob Ojeda and Brent Turney on trumpet;

Steve Duncan, Tom Garling, Luke Malewicz and Michael Young on trombone; Jeremy Kahn on piano; Dennis Carroll on bass; Stuart Flack on guitar and George Fludas on drums. The CJO saluted long-time supporter Ray Rusnak for his leadership and support of jazz music and education in Chicago. (The CJO 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, the culminating event during this, the company’s “Ruby” anniversary season, will be held on Saturday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Studebaker Theater, 410 S. Michigan Ave. in Chicago’s Fine Arts Building. Tickets are $35-$45.) (Photos by Charles Osgood)

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More than 700 guests came together to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana’s (RMHC-CNI) Annual Gala, this year titled One Step Closer. Held at the Geraghty on April 27 and presented by

HAVI and Wintrust, the event encouraged guests to "revel in red" with many sporting their favorite red footwear. The gala celebrated the impact RMHC-CNI had in the last year and raised over $1 million to support children and their families through the Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile programs. During a program emceed by Rob Stafford (NBC-5), RMHC-CNI CEO Holly Buckendahl shared remarks about the impact the

nonprofit has had on families in the Chicagoland community and thanked guests for their generosity and continued support. “Our gala is an important fundraising event that helps provide the care and resources needed for countless families with sick

children around Chicagoland, Northwest Indiana and beyond,” she said. “For a second year in a row, we raised over $1 million. Every dollar will go towards programs and services that enable families to get better together, ensuring that RMHC-CNI continues to be a beacon of hope and support for families with sick children.”  At the conclusion of the program, partygoers celebrated the evening’s success by capturing memories at the photo station, enjoying late-night McDonald’s cheeseburgers (my favorite part) and dancing the night away to the live entertainment. (Photos by Nicee Martin)

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Congrats to Vonita Reescer, this year's Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Foundation honoree! Founded in honor of his sister’s memory and her love of fashion, Stanley Paul, the legendary orchestra leader, established this design

scholarship in Raelene's name. The event, held at The Casino on May 1, honored Reescer for her devotion to Chicago and its many nonprofits. Robin Robinson served as emcee for the evening with roaster/toasters Reute Butler, Tracey DiBuono, Whitney Lasky, Eve Rodriguez Montoya and Dori Wilson offering up tantalizing anecdotes of their adventures with Vonita. The program kicked off

with a personalized song by Kim Jones. Vonita founded

VDR & Associates in 2004, a company that specializes in consulting for hospitality marketing, not-for-profit fundraising, special events, and sales/operations for independent hotels and resorts. She served as President of The Service Club of Chicago from 2012 through 2013, a highlight of her many years of philanthropic service to the community. She also serves on the boards of The Chicago Lighthouse, The National Museum of Mexican Art, the

Theater School of DePaul University, Face the Future Foundation and the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation. Vonita has proudly supported The Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Benefit for many years, and in 2019 is "grateful and humbled" by its recognition. The benefit raised funds to support annual scholarships to college students from Greater Chicago and/or Illinois that are currently enrolled in and studying fashion design. More than $300,000 has been awarded since the charity began in 1990.

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Whimsy and wit on the North Shore at the Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore's (5300 West Touhy)“Seen and Be Scene” party. The May 2 event included everything from a contortionist and sword swallower to Hollywood Glam characters, a champagne skirt dancer and more. The hotel, which features the largest ballroom and event space on the North Shore, recently went through a multi-million dollar renovation. The property-wide transformation includes an overhaul of the hotel’s 15,000-square-feet of flexible banquet and meeting space, in addition to a complete revamp of the 250 guestrooms, lobby, indoor pool and public spaces. Who knew? (Photos by Marisa Klug-Morataya) 

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Someone you should know–Catherine Costello. She created "Bloom 'n Toss", a unique concept that re-purposes healthy flowers and plants by placing them into the hands of the elderly, visually impaired, the sick, the cognitive and physically disabled, those in hospice, veteran's groups and others. So, if you have leftover flowers/plants after your next event, please consider calling Catherine so she can "spread joy and elevate the spirit of people everyday." Tony Abruscato's "Flower & Garden Show" is a big fan! For info, please click here!

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On June 13, The Service Club of Chicago will present its 2nd annual "Earlybirds & Bookworms" breakfast featuring acclaimed author and award-winning fashion designer Jeffrey Banks. The 8:30 a.m. mimosa breakfast at RL Restaurant will give guests the opportunity to purchase an inscribed copy of Mr. Banks' recent book, "Norell: Master of American Fashion" and enjoy a discussion of his life in the industry. Seating is limited. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Simply From The Heart, a nonprofit that offers complimentary beauty services to raise self  esteem for hospitalized patients, will host its first annual Women's Luncheon on Thursday, June 6 at Gibson's. To date, they have pampered over 5,000 patients! Won't you consider helping them continue their good work? (For tickets, only $75, click here! #pamperingwithapurpose

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Kudos to my fave auction house, Hindman Auctions, for its new brand identity! As of last week, the former Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will now be known as Hindman Auctions! Established in 1995 by my beautiful friend Leslie, the company currently operates more salesrooms than any other auction house in the country! 85% of our home decor came from Leslie's auctions and we couldn't be happier! Glad to know it's growing strong! Check out its new website here! Hope to see you there!) #clientcentric #buyorsell #acceptingconsignments (In Chicago at 1338 W. Lake)

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The Gene Siskel Film Center will host "Marvel, Movies, and More: Honoring Jon Favreau in Conversation with Robert Downey Jr."  on Saturday, June 15 at the Four Seasons. Screenwriter, director, producer and actor Favreau will receive the Renaissance Award following a conversation with Downey. This year's event will be co-chaired by longstanding GSFC supporters and advisory board members Roopa Weber and Anita Liskey. For tickets/more info, click here!

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I hope you can join us on Thursday, May 30, for OUT of Office, a kick-ass party to kick-off LGBTQ Month in Chicago!  I'm thrilled to co-chair this big event with Windy City Live's Val Warner on the Godfrey Rooftop. A little back story about event founder/my friend, Andrew Hayes and his inspiration for the event. "18 years ago, the only place where we could network, personally and professionally, was in gay bars. I challenged that and pushed us to be anywhere and so we ARE! As a result, or because of it, the city has an annual Gay Pride Kick-Off event called "OUT of the Office," he said. This year's event will support 3 worthy LGBTQ organizations/nonprofits: Affinity Chicago that supports the African-American community; Groceryland, that's celebrating 25 years of service to the HIV/AIDS and gravely ill LGBTQ and the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, inspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. (For tickets, $15-$50, and more info, click here!)

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I can't end this blog without mentioning the "CAMPY" Met Gala! I've been watching awards and fashion shows for a long, long time and I've never seen anything this exciting, fresh or more interesting. I know a lot of the designs/attendees have been criticized for this or that

reason but, for me, each and every moment of this spectacular runway display was captivating. And what a way to start things off with the "fashion performance" by the

one and only Gaga! I would've loved to see how she entered the building with that magnificent Brandon Maxwell loooooonnnnggggg cape! And then when she took off each garment only to reveal another design equally fascinating was a true testimony to her and her art. Loved, loved, loved it! And love them or hate them, the Kardashians always bring the glam and the press! The three of them, Kendall, Kylie and Kim were all outstanding (including mom Kris) in their designs–Kendall and Kylie wearing Versace and Kim bringing out                           

 

designer Manfred Thierry Mugler after a 20 year retirement to design her "wet dress"! Come on! If only the cameras could've followed everyone inside (not even Iphone pics were allowed). But, happily, there

were some stolen moments including a peek at the spectacular pink flamingo centerpiece in the Great Hall, created by event planner Raul Avila and his team. The breathtaking 25-foot-tall piece was made out of 30,000 flowers and surrounded by a border of pink feathers. The official Met after-party was at the Top of the Standard with a Gucci party at Hunter College  and Jeremy Scott (Moschino) hosting an event with Katy Perry (the living chandelier) and Gwen Stefani at the Playboy Club (yeah!) If only I could've been a fly on all of those walls! Keep up your passion for fashion Anna Wintour! Your legacy is sealed in stone!  

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I was sad to hear of Cooper Hefner stepping down from his executive role as Playboy Mag's chief of global partnerships to take an advisory position. Cooper has launched a new venture, the Hefner Media Corporation, complete with a digital content platform called HefPost, that will feature everything from news to adult content. "Stepping away from my executive position at Playboy Enterprises was a difficult decision to come to, though it is the right decision to make," Hefner says. Sending lots of Bunny Love your way Coop! Don't be a stranger. (To read about Playboy's new post-Coop pop-up in LA, read here).

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Congrats to Chicago's National Museum of Mexican Art that celebrated its annual benefit at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on May 3. Themed Noche de Encanto (Evening of Enchantment), the Gala de Arte, a black-tie event that celebrates art, culture and the resiliency of the Mexican community, attracted nearly 700 guests and raised $550,000 for museum programs.

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More love in the air! HUGE congrats to lovebirds Tarrah Cooper and Jeff Wright, who tied the knot recently in the elegant Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel. Happy, Happy!

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That's it for this week! Hope you've enjoyed all of this fun news as much as I've enjoyed bringing it to you! Remember, if not a subscriber, please sign up here and tell ALLLLL of your friends! I so appreciate your support!                     

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace @CandidCandace.com

 

P.S. Try to stop smiling……