This is a very special blog post as it celebrates 17 years of bringing you the first and longest running lifestyle blog in Chicago! It’s been a delightful labor of love since 2008 and I’ve met so very many fabulous people along the way. I first began the blog on the Today’s Chicago Woman website, thanks to the urging of its founder Sherren Leigh. I would love to be able to share you that first entry, but sadly and suddenly, Sherren deleted the entire website causing me and a load of great writers to lose all of their content there. It wasn’t a nice thing to do without warning but that was her decision. On a brighter note, I DO have my very first independent blog which I am sharing with you here now! In it, you will see many familiar faces, events and organizations. Some of these local notables are, sadly, no longer with us, which makes it even more poignant. They are certainly with us in spirit. Thanks to all of you for sticking with me throughout the years and here’s to 100 more just like it! Enjoy!
Welcome to my first blog as an independent! I’ve left TCW to pursue other interests but my interest in blogging remains the same. I hope you’ll like it! Summer is nearing an end and quite the summer it was…so many events and happenings in so little time! Here are some highlights:
THE SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO'S DAY ON THE TERRACE EVENT
The annual Day on the Terrace fashion show was held on August 1st at the Peninsula Hotel benefiting the Service Club of Chicago, one of the city's oldest philanthropic organizations. It was organized, as always, by the Queen Bee of Chicago – Hazel Barr. She outdid herself this time with an over-the-top show, including circus performers on unicycles displaying the store signs, acrobats and everything else you could think of. It was a sold-out event with over 330 gorgeous ladies in attendance. The fashion show consisted of top-of-the-line retailers including a new designer to the show, Quinton d'Alexander. I was lucky enough to wear his unique creations – top hat, cane, white gloves and an outfit right from the racetrack in My Fair Lady – and it was so much fun! Other participating stores included Luca Luca (we LOVE Simona!), Dismero, Escada(we LOVE Ann!), Macy's 28 Shoppe, Ultimo, Maria Pinto (who will also be showing her awesome fall fashions for the Joffrey's Couture & Cocktails on Monday, September 15th), Hana K and Neiman Marcus (we missed Tina, who was on vacation). Photos: top left, Hazel Barr with Service Club member and model Cookie Cohen; right, designer Quinton d'Alexander; bottom left, Service Club members and models Sheryl Dyer and Jean Antoniou.
HINCKLEY BOATS AT THE CHICAGO YACHT CLUB
Another fabulous event was organized by our dear friend, Kate Gaynor, on behalf of Marsh and Hinckley boats. It was held at the Chicago Yacht Club on a perfect summer evening. There were hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and then the BOATS! I don't think we can simply call these masterpieces boats because they were all handmade and priced in the millions. Breathtaking!
A big thank you to Kate for arranging such a lovely and unique event. For more info, please contact 1-866-HINCKLEY or visit
www.hinckleyyachts.com. Photos: top right, a Hinckley yacht; left, Helen Melchior, Chris Long, my husband Chuck Jordan and I; bottom right, Kate Gaynor and I.
LOUIS VUITTON BOUTIQUE OPENING CELEBRATION AT TABLE 52
On July 10th, we attended a party at Table 52 celebrating the opening of the Louis Vuitton Boutique in Nordstrom – Chicago is the only city to have this arrangement 🙂 – a very intimate affair with only about 24 guests upstairs in the restaurant. We were greeted by the infinitely talented chef Art Smith with champagne at the foot of the stairs and when we walked into the upstairs dining area, it took our breath away! The space was designed by our very own Jonathan Ryan and Debi Lilly from A Perfect Event, in conjunction with the LV creative team. All of Jonathan's projects are masterpieces but I think he outdid himself with this one! The room was a sea of candlelight from burgundy tapers that were highlighted by beautiful matching floral arrangements in silver bowls; even the tablecloths had delicate LV logos etched in gold. There was a photo of Pete Nordstrom's grandfather tucked into an antique cupboard surrounded by vintage Louis Vuitton pieces, original shoes from Nordstrom's first shoe department and old books.
The meal was unbelievable, starting with Art’s signature parmesan cheese and buttermilk biscuits and ending with his famous hummingbird cake; Art even signed all of our menus in silver to commemorate the event.
Among the event’s lucky guests were darling artist Francine Turk and her husband, Steve; Sven Asmus; Les Coney; great Bears defensive tackle and all around cute guy, Tommie Harris; handsome Bulls guard, Ben Gordon; and Lauren and Brian Rosen. Pete Nordstrom and Daniel LaLonde, president and CEO of LV North America, gave charming speeches, as did Art Smith. The evening was capped off with a chauffeured ride back home. It was one of the best evenings with the most incredible attention to detail. Everyone received a signed cookbook from Art AND a Louis Vuitton wallet!! Unbelievable…a truly a perfect event. Photos: top left, the gorgeous designs of A Perfect Event and signed menua from Art Smith; top right, Heather Vandenberghe, me and artist Francine Turk; bottom left, Art Smith and LV North America CEO Daniel LaLonde; bottom right, Pete Nordstrom, Francine Turk, me and Daniel LaLonde.
OUR DAY AT COMMON THREADS
In the first week of June, I took a group of friends including Dori Wilson, Bernice Pink, Hedwig Golant and Jan Bail for a very unique and worthwhile experience: cooking at the Common Threads after-school program with Art Smith and his students. If you haven’t heard of Common Threads, it was started by our wonderful Art and his life partner, Jesus Salgueiro, in October 2001, a month after planes crashed into the World Trade Center towers. Art and Jesus traveled to New York on a mission of healing where Art had been asked to cook dinner for a mother and her three school-aged children after their father had disappeared in the collapse of Tower Two. Art and Jesus were so touched by this experience that when they came back to Chicago, Art penned these impactful and fateful words: “For our world is a quilt, its people the fabric, all joined together by common threads.” From this quote, Art and Jesus’ organization grew. Their executive director and my friend, Linda Novick-O’Keefe, drew out their business plan and Common Threads – a non-profit teaching children age 8 to 12 valuable lessons about nutrition and food preparation in a number of cultures – was born. Today, Common Threads has a presence in 17 schools across the country and has served over 1,000 kids this year alone. Believe me, this is one organization that makes a difference at the level we need it most: our children. For more information on this worthy effort, please contact Linda Novick-O’Keefe at 312-752-2692 or visit
www.commonthreads.com. Photo: top left, Hedwig Golant, Common Threads executive director Linda Novick-O'Keefe and Common Threads students; right, Dori Wilson and a Common Threads student; bottom left, Bernice Pink and Common Threads students.
JOFFREY BALLET PRESS KICKOFF PARTY AND C-HOUSE OPENING
Also in June – on a beautiful sparkling night, to be exact – the Joffrey Ballet held their press kickoff party at the hot new Affinia Hotel for the upcoming Couture & Cocktails event scheduled for Monday, September 15th, as mentioned above. It also was the official opening of New York chef Marcus Samuelson’s first foray into the Chicago restaurant scene with C-House. The crowd was hot but the 29th floor C-View Lounge was even hotter. The rooftop deck and secluded sexy bar has become THE place to be this summer; check it out at 166 E. Superior! For C-House reservations, please call 312-523-0923. Photo: left, CEO Brooke Barrett, C-House chef Marcus Samuelson, me and CEO Patrick Denihan; right, Shawn Moskalak, Shauna Montgomery and Gregg Zgonena.
MORE JOFFREY NEWS!
Here is some wonderful Joffrey Ballet news for all of you fans and friends: On September 11th in Millennium Park, the Joffrey Ballet will headline a program entitled An Evening of Remembrances–A Salute to the Victims and Families of 9/11. Helen Melchior will serve as the chairman of the entire weekend of events including the official opening night in the Black Box Theatre on Friday, September 12th, a black tie dinner followed by the first performance in the Joffrey's new home. Tickets are $1,000 and it will be an event not to be missed; history in the making, I tell you! The whole city will be celebrating with banners along Randolph Street, pointe shoes and costumes with congratulatory signs in windows along Oak Street and Michigan Avenue, even the old Esquire Theater marquee is carrying our message as I type! There will be a public open house with tours on Saturday, September 13th and the opening events will close with the must-attend party of the season, Couture & Cocktails, on Monday, September 15th. This party will feature the dazzling fall fashions of designer to the stars (and possibly first lady), Maria Pinto, a live auction including Van Cleef and Arpels diamond earrings valued at over $25,000, two tickets (plus airfare) to Wimbledon for the men's semi-finals and finals in 2009 and an original Joffrey Ballet charcoal portrait by Francine Turk. For information, please contact Nicole Patrick at 312-386-8921. Photo: left, Joffrey Ballet logo; right, Joffrey artistic director Ashley Wheater and opening events chairman Helen Melchior.
BRUSHES WITH FAME
Now, on a personal note, what gorgeous goddaughter of mine got up close and personal with Vogue magazine’s editor-at-large, Andre Leon Talley? Samantha Amato, of course! She should be a model but she won’t listen to her aunt. Her mother and my dear friend, Rhonda Sanderson, were recently guests of Nordstrom in New York for a designer shopping experience where they met Carolina Herrera, Phillip Lim, Peter Som, and Vogue editor Anna Wintour who “was the size of a pencil.” Photo: left, Samantha Amato and Andre Leon Talley.
FAST FORWARD TO FALL
This fall will be a classic and clean-line lover’s delight. The clothes are chic and cut to a turn. I think Michael Kors has nailed the looks this year; he has designed some incredible fur collars that you just slap around your neck with any outfit and it’s instantly chic. For this matter, if you have an old fur coat that’s out of style and you don’t know what to do with it, have it made into a cool collar or a giant muff – this is what I’ll be doing! I also love the simple classic colors: black, camel and gray. These colors are also so great to travel with because they all mix so well. I’m leaving for Cape Cod for the first time soon so I will let you know how I did with my packing! It’s Sandy Deromedi’s 50th birthday party and we’re all going. I’ll have photos for you in my next blog. Photo: right, a fur collar designed by Michael Kors.
This is all for now. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! Stay tuned for more coming soon!
As my friends know, I live for the holiday season and there's no better place to experience it than right here in the Windy City! And, although I don't quite have the weather I want yet- a soft, sparkling blanket of snow – I'm still very thankful for what we have. I’m glad we have the Christkindlmarket back as I’m a huge fan (through Dec. 24). I love the festive feeling, the food and the one-of-a-kind ornaments. And yes, every year, I pick up one of the new mugs (it’s now become a tradition and, as Chuck says, yet another collection for me.) The tree is up at Macy’s (still Marshall Field’s to me) and the Walnut Room beckons for our annual Christmas luncheon. This city shines so brightly during the holidays; it thrills me to see the homes decorated, the pop-ups all around town and all the fun-filled parties with friends to look forward to. Our tree is up and our home is so cozy and cheerful. And, even though it’s a complete hassle getting all the decor out of storage and dragging it home; once it’s set up- all the stress just melts away. (We have a Balsam Hills flip tree and decorating has never been easier!) My wish for Santa this year will be a little different than years’ past. We’ve had a tough few years, not only in Chicago, but in the country and the world. I believe in biorhythms and feel like we are all due for an uptick in our charts. I hope/wish we can all come together in a friendlier way and agree to accept each other’s differences as well as celebrate our commonalities. Sounds simplistic, but if anyone can do it, Santa can! I will be putting out extra milk and cookies. Here’s to a brighter, happier, healthier and more prosperous future for us all! _______________________________________________________________________________
View down Oak St. from atop the Enjoy Illinois bus.
For the 33rd annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, people from across the country turned out in record numbers to see the magic along the Mag Mile. This iconic event, the largest evening parade in the U.S., delivered festive surprises that had onlookers
Santa in his sleigh. (Photo by Ragulikethesauce)
cheering from start to finish. This year, mega balloons made their debut, stealing the show with two beloved Muppets. Towering 60 feet tall, Kermit the Frog floated alongside his rambunctious 50-ft-tall bandmate, Animal,
Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of Illinois Dept. of Tourism on Enjoy Illinois bus.
charming spectators of all ages. Adding to the excitement, the Magnificent Mile Association upgraded all one million twinkling lights along the route to maximize their brilliance across more than 200 trees, according to President and CEO, Kimberly Bares. My husband Chuck and I were honored to be invited onboard the Enjoy Illinois bus which was an experience we will never forget! Two years ago, we rode
Lisa Fielding, WBBM News Radio, enjoying the parade.
on the My Eye Dr. bus (thank you Michael Caputo) and the crowds this year were noticeably larger which was so good to see! Chicago is slowly coming out of the darkness of Covid and showing up in droves; some estimates put the number at nearly 1 million. Looking down on that sea of smiling faces with so many kids dressed in holiday attire, was so heartwarming. Chicago is certainly dressed for the holidays; there were soaring searchlights, giant snowflake projections on the Wrigley Building and a grand fireworks finale.This year’s
floats were packed with show-stopping entertainment.
Grant DePorter and Kimberly Bares, President/CEO Mag Mile Assn.
Highlights included performances by disco legends The Former Ladies of Chic, the funk-driven Cameo, the harmonious Sharpe Family Singers, and the nostalgic beats of Quad City DJs. On the Enjoy Illinois float, Chicago Blackhawks DJ Lee Michaels kept the party alive as we all waved silver and blue pom-poms down the Mag Mile. Adding to the excitement
Beth Heller, marketing genius.
were seven high-energy marching bands from across the country and the beloved Rudolph, carried by athletes and families from Special Olympics Illinois. Following the parade, the festivities continued with a private after-party at the Fairmont Chicago, hosted by title sponsor Wintrust. Guests were treated to a feast featuring a prime rib carving station, flaming eggnog, s’mores and other decadent desserts. The room was buzzing with holiday cheer as notable attendees mingled, including Grant DePorter, Beth Heller,
With Lisa Fielding, Marla Cichowski and Michelle Mekky.
Daniel Thomas, Kimberly Bares, Marla Cichowski, Lisa Fielding, Michelle Mekky, John and Martha Idler, Rich Gamble, Gail Spreen, Chelsea Harvey, Mary Ann Rose, Heinz Kern, Peggy and Bill Martay, and others. With Chicago still emerging from the shadows of COVID, the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival proved the city’s resilience and vibrant spirit. A special thank-you goes out to the event’s generous sponsors—title sponsor Wintrust Financial Corporation and presenting sponsors Enjoy Illinois, Chicagoland Kia Dealers and Dunkin’—for bringing holiday magic to the heart of the city. Chicago, you’ve outdone yourself. Until next year, let the holiday cheer shine bright!
SC President Bobbi Panter, gala co-chair Alex Meneses, lead sponsor Sherrill Bodine and Myra Reilly. (Photo by John Reilly Photography)
TheService Club of Chicago’s annual gala, “Timeless Elegance,,” celebrated 134 years of giving on Nov. 2, at the Ritz-Carlton. Co-chaired by members Alex Meneses and Kelly Uihlein, the event is the nonprofit's largest fundraiser, supporting its Philanthropic Grant Program. During the evening, special members were
Bobbi Panter and SC co-chairs Alex Meneses and Kelly Uihlein. (Photo by Candace)
spotlighted and past grantees shared the impact The Service Club has made in their lives. Celebrity guests included Joe Minosa from Chicago Fire, Diana-Maria Riva from Dead to Me and Glamorous, Lisa Vidal from Grey’s Anatomy and local
Kathleen Haines-Finley, Karen Peters, Debi Catenacci and Lezley Hodes.
WGN newscaster Lourdes Duarte (who also won an Emmy that night). Co-chairs Meneses and Uihlein welcomed guests, expressed gratitude to the host committee and shared that, last year, the organization awarded nearly $1 million in grants to 47 nonprofits! Service Club President Bobbi Panter highlighted the organization’s 134-year legacy, saying, “We will continue to expand our reach, deepen our impact and make a difference in countless lives.” Panter then introduced a video featuring past grantees sharing how the organization’s support has positively affected their lives. Guests began the evening with a red-carpet reception and cocktail hour, followed by dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions. Kerry Sayers conducted the live auction that included stays at five-star hotels in Paris, Beverly Hills, and New York; couture items like jewelry and furs; curated wine
Philip Emigh and Bruce Haas.
collections; spa and beauty packages; sports memorabilia; tickets to sporting events and more. Service Club members consistently provide outstanding support for the organization’s events. This year’s gala standouts included Myra and John Reilly, who brought the Tribute Book to life and provided event photography. Donna Flynn and the committee secured silent auction items, while Lauren Lein and Auxiliary Board President Carli Kelly sourced
Lauren Lein, Lisa Huber and Sherrill Bodine.
items for the gift bags. Laura Wallace, Dianne Olsen and the 2024 Provisional Class sold raffle tickets. Major donors included Sherrill Bodine, Alex Meneses and John
Georgia Marsha, Dean and Sally Jo Pfaff.
Simpson, Sally Jo and Dean Pfaff, Kelly Uihlein, Patty Marx, Northern Trust Bank and The Nat. P. Ozmon Family Foundation and others. The Party Faithful band kept the crowd on their feet to the conclusion of the evening. The event raised over $400,000 for The Service Club of Chicago’s Philanthropic Grant Program that supports, enhances and expands agency programs throughout the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients span social service, cultural, educational, and civic fields, serving individuals across the region. Founded in 1890, the nonprofit is an all-women, all-volunteer organization.
The Chicago Public Library Foundation’s annual gala lit up the UIC Dorin Forum, raising over $1.2 million to support programs across the city’s 81 library branches. Themed “Neverending Transformation,” the night honored literary and artistic trailblazers. This
Co-chairs Kimberley Goode and Michael Fassnacht.
Chance the Rapper, Arts Award recipient, with Linda Johnson Rice, CPL board chair.
year’s Carl Sandburg Literary Award went to bestselling author Ann Patchett, whose works, including Tom Lake, have captivated readers worldwide. Patchett expressed her gratitude, crediting Carl Sandburg as a literary hero who, like libraries, speaks for everyone. Cristina Henríquez, known for The Book of Unknown Americans, received the 21st Century Award, celebrating her literary impact and personal ties to public libraries. Chicago’s own Chance the Rapper was
Chris Brown Cristina Henriquez and Brenda Bui. (Lynn Renee Photography)
recognized with the Arts Award for his music and community work. Reflecting on his start at the Harold Washington Library’s YOUmedia space, Chance shared, “Libraries gave me a space to grow.” The evening, co-
Maggie Baczkowski Shermann 'Dilla' Thomas Wendy Berger and Alexi Giannoulias.
chaired by Michael Fassnacht and Kimberley Goode and produced by Donna La Pietra, featured appearances by over 40 celebrated authors, including Rick Bayless, Jonathan Eig, Eve L. Ewing, Shelby Van Pelt, Melissa Harris, Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, First Lady of Illinois M.K. Pritzker, Peter Sagal, Nami Mun, Bill Kurtis (who also served returned as event emcee), Liz Taylor and more. Attendees enjoyed an evening of dining, mingling, and an insightful Q&A with Patchett hosted by NPR’s Scott Simon. The event underscored the Foundation’s mission to fund critical library initiatives, from early literacy to career programs, with the Carl Sandburg Literary Awards alone raising over $22 million since their inception.
Ann Patchett, Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, with NPR's Scott Simon. (Lynn Renee Photography)
The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation’s annual Fall Benefit, “An Evening of Hope,” brought together 800 guests at Theater on the Lake, raising an incredible $1.2
Co-chairs Dana Sanders and Jenny Stevens with Guerdy Abraira (center). (Photo by Sheri Whitko)
million for breast cancer research! Dr. Olusimbo Ige, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, was honored for her commitment to equitable breast cancer care, alongside special (beautiful) guest
Guerdy Abraira, Suzanne LeMignot, Laura Sage, Lisa Fielding and Beth Heller.
Guerdy Abraira from “The Real Housewives of Miami”, who shared her story as a breast cancer survivor and championed early detection. The event, co-chaired by Dana Sanders and Jenny Stevens, featured Matthew Hoffman’s iconic 'BIG hope' sculpture, temporarily relocated from Michigan Avenue, which served as a powerful tribute to those impacted by breast cancer. Through partnerships with top Chicago hospitals, the Lynn Sage Foundation is driving breakthroughs in treatment access. Yet, as the American Cancer Society notes, breast cancer still affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S., underlining the ongoing need for research and support. “Everyone deserves hope and access to lifesaving care,” said co-founder Laura Sage, as the foundation works tirelessly to make that a reality.
Halee Sage, Laura Sage, Dylan Hoffman, 'Hope' sculpture artist Matthew Hoffman and Guerdy Abraira. (Photo by Sheri Whitko)
Chicago became the Hollywood of the Midwest when Oscar-winning director and Chicago native Robert Zemeckis returned home to accept the prestigious Founder’s
Zsa Zsa, Leslie and Bob Zemeckis.
Legacy Award at the 60th Chicago International Film Festival! The award was presented by festival founder
Robert Zemeckis and longtime friend, Michael Kutza, CIFF founder.
Michael Kutza at the Music Box Theatre, where Zemeckis’ new film Here—reuniting him with Forrest Gump stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright—was screened. Fans packed the theater for this exciting closing-night event. Zemeckis, accompanied by his beautiful wife Leslie and daughter Zsa Zsa (both in the film), was warmly welcomed on stage by CIFF Artistic Director Mimi Plauché and Managing Director Vivian Teng. They celebrated the filmmaker’s iconic work on Forrest Gump, Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and more. Ahead of the screening, Zemeckis mingled with fans at a VIP reception and charmed attendees on the Red Carpet. Later, he joined Kutza and family for dinner at RL, capping off a memorable night before heading to New York to support Back to the Future: The Musical. The Chicago International Film Festival, presented by Cinema/Chicago, fosters global connections through film, making this award a perfect honor for Zemeckis and his unforgettable storytelling.
Mimi Plauche, Robert Zemeckis, Michael Kutza, Leslie Zemeckis, Zsa Zsa Zemeckis and Vivian Teng. (Photo by Timothy Schmidt)
Eric Kircherer, Manolis Alpogianis, George Alpogianis and performance artist Luna La Catrina.
Chef Art Smith opened his home on Friday, Nov. 1 for a Dia de los Muertos celebration. The charming house he shares with his husband/artist Jesus Salgueiro in Hyde Park was packed to the rafters with friends who turned out to honor the past and celebrate the present
Chef Art Smith with some young partygoers.
together. The party started as soon as you entered the space – there were performance artists, dramatically painted with ‘Day of the Dead’ makeup; candles; skull sculptures; live music and colorful décor and flowers (by Kyle Hustedt of Bukiety Floral). The smells from the kitchen were so tantalizing with multiple top chefs, headed up by Chef Hector Guerrero (of Art Smith Company) and Art, cooking traditional DOD dishes
Mariachi Los Pumas performed in the backyard.
that featured Pan de Muerto (Mexican bread of the dead); beef tamales, turkey pozole, chicken mole, homemade tortillas, taquitos, enchiladas, rice and beans, flan and fruit, sugar skulls, cookies and so much more. Downstairs in the backyard, the party spilled over with guests enjoying live music by the Mariachi Los Pumas,
Exotic greeter.
who were performing by candlelight and twinkling lights. A wood-stoked pizza oven was filled with custom-made pizzas by Chef Christopher de la Cueva (of Chef Art Smith’s Reunion restaurant). A taco food truck stood nearby in the driveway, as if more food was needed! In one of the front rooms, a make-up artist
Great food and gorgeous decor.
happily painted everyone in “sugar skull catrina makeup” (elaborate skull makeup to honor the dead). In another room, an elaborate ofrenda (altar), designed by Melanie Lopez of Somos Arte Chicago, was decorated with candles and photos of lost loved ones. Chef Art encouraged all guests to bring a photo. My husband Chuck and I placed photos of our late moms and my late cousins on it. A large photo of Chef Art and his friend Chilli Pepper was front and center. Sadly, even a baby photo was seen there. And, in honor of his late friend Chilli, Art introduced a fantastic
Colorful guests.
performance artist, Luna La Catrina, dressed as the “goddess of death” in an extraordinary sparkling red costume with skulls, lit candles, feathers and an elaborate headdress. She graciously posed for photos with all who asked. And, in true Art Smith fashion, everything about the party had a
Reunion Chef Hector Guerrero making magic in the kitchen.
philanthropic bent. All items and experiences came from nonprofits or were purchased from small Mexican businesses. Chef Art shared his thoughts on Dia de los Muertos, “There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t cry for them [late friends and family] or think about them. It took two movies, Coco and Remember Me, to teach America and the world about this beautiful custom.” Dia de los Muertos is a two-day holiday that reunites the living and dead. Families create ofrendas (offerings) to honor their departed family members. It’s a rare holiday for celebrating both death and life that is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed. It is also observed in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage.
“Candid Candace – The Podcast!” Get ready for a jam-packed holiday extravaganza! My co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I are unwrapping all the festive fun coming to the Windy City, along with thrilling recaps of recent standout events. Here’s a sneak peek at
Prolific author, John St. Augustine.
what’s under the podcast tree: Behind the scenes at the PAWS Fur Ball, where one show- stopping auction item fetched a jaw-dropping $67K; an exclusive chat with legendary filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, fresh off receiving the Founder’s Legacy Award at the Chicago International Film Festival; Tyson fight talk—the hits, the hype, and the heartbreak; preview of the magic at Navy Pier’s “Light Up the Lake”; view from the top, Wintrust’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the largest evening parade in the country; The 900 Shops’ "Illuminate 900" event; what’s fresh at the Christkindlmarket and the festive finds at Randolph Street Market’s December edition (Coming Dec. 14/15). Plus, the scoop on how you could win $250,000 in furniture, thanks to Darvin Furniture & Mattress—yes, really! And if that’s not enough, John delivers a heartfelt and captivating tale of his travels through Paris, London and Normandy. This is holiday cheer with a twist, and you won’t find this kind of inside scoop anywhere else. So, grab a cozy spot, press play and let’s dive into the season together! Listen here!
I'm excited to announce I'm a regular contributor now to WGN Radio 720 AM, thanks to the legendary newsman Rick Kogan! His great show, "After Hours with Rick Kogan," covers Chicago from top to bottom and side to side every Sunday! You don't want to miss it from 5-7 pm! Here's our latest segment!
The 900 Shops delivered the first tree lighting on the avenue with its "Illuminate 900 event," Make-A-Wish Illinois' biggest holiday fundraiser! Set in a winter wonderland on all levels, the experience included holiday activations, delicious food and drink, the ZZAZZETTES, toy soldiers, Ava Fain, Ballet Chicago and SANTA, all wrapped up in a holiday bow! The 900 Shops first presented this unique experience in 2016 and, since then, have raised over $116,000 for charity!
The toy soldiers thrilled young and old alike at this year's 900 Shops' "Illuminate 900" event.
For the 21st year Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is celebrating ethnic holiday traditions of nearly 100 different nationalities at the “Christmas Trees from Around the World” display at her office. The annual celebration of cultural diversity showcases handcrafted ornaments and decorations. “Christmas Trees from Around the World” is a display of 3-foot trees decorated by members of various ethnic and religious communities. Pappas invites the public to celebrate Christmas with music and festivities from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Treasurer’s Office, 118 N. Clark St., Room 112, Chicago. (RSVP by email at CCTO@cookcountytreasurer.com)
Navy Pier's "Light Up the Lake 2024," will be the most thrill- and chill-packed edition of its popular, Pier-wide holiday celebration yet! Kicking off on Friday, November 29, and running through January 5, this year’s Light Up the Lake festivities will include an eclectic array of immersive seasonal experiences, accented by award-winning fireworks, first-of-their-kind holiday drone shows and millions of dazzling lights. Click here for ALL the exciting details!
There are a lot of fun events coming up, so be sure to mark your calendars for: The Service Club of Chicago's Holiday Luncheon on Dec. 3 at the Union League Club; Catholic Charities St. Nick Ball on Dec. 6 at the Hilton Chicago; WINGS "Sweet Home Chicago" event on Dec. 8 at the Four Seasons; the last Randolph Street Marketof the year on Dec. 14/15 and Music of the Baroque's "Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts beginning Dec. 19 (all details here).
And, last but not least, my new advertiser Darvin Furniture & Mattress is offering a great gift for Christmas- how about winning $250,000 in furniture and mattresses! Their promotion is going on now through Dec. 8 (the names will be called at noon, winners need not be present to win.) Visit the store to register! Find all the details here!
And, that's a wrap! Candid Candace is now celebrating 16 years as Chicago's first and longest running lifestyle blog and, for that, I thank YOU! I will be back soon with more fun from the Windy City and beyond. In the meantime, stay happy, positive, healthy and safe as we celebrate the season together!
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. Jack Frost's 'Winter Walk' opens Dec. 29 at 170 N. Green St. Here's a clip from 2021 on Candid Candace TV of what that experience looks like.
There are so many plates spinning now but it's a good thing. It means Chicago is thriving in brand new ways with lots of new restaurants opening, new events and so much more. Phil Stefani is bringing back his much loved Tavern on Rush to the Thompson hotel this summer; La Grande Boucherie and La Serre have brought a bit of Paris to Chicago. Tre Dita in the St. Regis is dramatic and delicious and Chris and Susie Malayon's Butcher and the Bear is reviving the Lincoln Park dining scene single-handedly.
Spring is bursting out all over in Chicago (Shutterstock photo)
The event scene has never been hotter with almost each one being a record-breaker. People are stepping out and stepping up with no signs of slowing down. And speaking of new events, I hope you will
Elda de la Rosa.
consider joining us for a debut WINGSProgram fashion show fundraiser,"Blossom," on Thursday, April 25 at the chic 21c Museum Hotel. The night will highlight fashions by Elda de la Rosa and feature live entertainment by jazz great Elaine Dame. To add even more excitement to the night, handsome Nigel
WINGS' Tracey Mayer.
Barker will serve as our emcee. The event will benefit WINGS, a nonprofit that supports survivors of domestic violence, and is being produced by Tracey Mayer, who shared her own inspiring story recently here in Fete Magazine. I'm very proud and excited to be the honoree. (To buy tickets and for more info, please click here!) Also, please try to join us for the kick-off party at Veronica Beard (11 E. Walton) on Thursday, April 11, from 5:30- 7:30. Hosted by Sylvia Perez, Tracey Mayer and me, this VB event will donate 15% of sales to benefit the nonprofit. #VBGivesBack.
Al Blackstone, Nan Giordano, Cesar G. Salinas. (Photo by Anderson Photography)
In celebration of its 61st season,Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) hosted its “Studio 61” gala at the Ravenswood Event Center on Feb. 24. Honorary Chair for the evening was Emmy Award-winner (“So You Think You Can Dance”)
Kristine Kinder, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, Christine D'hondt . (Photo by Anderson Photography)
Al Blackstone. The festivities began with a cocktail reception before a warm welcome by GDC's Artistic Director Nan Giordano, Executive Director Erica Lynette Edwards and Board President Chris D’hondt. The highlight of the evening was the sneak peek of performances by GDC dancers of two works premiering in April at the Harris Theater: Adam Houston’s “unconditional” and Al Blackstone’s “Gershwin in B.” Guests also enjoyed an open bar, silent auction, plated dinner and a lively paddle raise. Captains for the “Studio
Al Blackstone, Trey Gonzales, Kip Helverson . (Photo by Anderson Photography)
61” host committee were Paula and Tim Friedman. Committee members included Courtney and David Burk, John Cipriano, Tara Cope, Pam Crutchfield, Chris and Christine D’hondt, Ann Ford and Alex De Frise, Nan Giordano, Trey Gonzalez and Kip Helverson, Jennifer and Kevin Kastenholz, Tina and Brian Monaghan, Janet Rauschenberger, Dan Sabol, Cesar G. Salinas, Richard
Robert Edwards, Erica Lynette Edwards (executive director), Ida Edwards and Pierre Locket. (Photo by Anderson Photography)
and Diane Weinberg and Chuck and me. Sponsors for GDC’s “Studio 61” Gala Benefit were Anna Held Floral Studio, Breakthru Beverage Group, Darvin Furniture & Mattress, EP Event Rentals, DJ Madrid, Mansueto Foundation, Moët Hennessy, Ravenswood Event Center, John Robak and Smith's Men's Store – Lake Forest. Watch for GDC’s exciting upcoming performances at the Harris Theater April 5 – 6 titled, “Season 61 | UNLIMITED!” The program will feature world premieres of Blackstone’s one act, “Gershwin in B," and Houston’s “unconditional,” plus popular selections from GDC’s repertoire. (For more information on these and other GDC events, click here.
Nan Giordano (artistic director), Cesar G. Salinas (associate artistic director) and Giordano Dance Chicago dancers. (Photo by Anderson Photography)
On Saturday, May 18, please join us for the 2024 Dream Awards. The event will be held at the Kehrein Center for the Arts, 5628 W. Washington, and is "A Salute to Chicago" produced by the fabulous Mable Buckner. Emceed by the one and only Cheryl Burton, the night will honor "Legends who have achieved their dreams in Music, Film, Dance,
ABC-7's Hosea Sanders will receive the Excellence in Broadcast Award.
Media and Journalism." Hosea Sanders will receive the Excellence in Broadcast award; George Daniels will accept the Living Legend Award; Tracey V. Bell will receive the Trailblazer Award; Jerry Butler will accept the Icon Award, and so many others. (I will be proud to accept the Excellence in Media honor.) There will be live entertainment, light hors d'oeuvres and moving tributes, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Building a Brighter Future for the Arts, a comprehensive human services nonprofit that offers programs and services in the areas of community engagement, education employment, family services, health equity and youth services. Please join us! For tickets and info, please click here! _______________________________________________________________________
Hosts with the most: Marko Iglendza and Neal Zucker.
Popular businessmen Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza hosted a blow-out St. Paddy’s Day party at Gibson’s Restaurant on March 15. The by-invite-only event included 300 of Neal and Marko’s closest friends and offered one
Ken Norgan, Chuck, me, Adam Vitale and Matt Olaveson.
delightful surprise after another. The party was packed on the 2nd level with balloons and festive décor everywhere you looked. Irish dancers thrilled the crowd along with the legendary Shannon Rovers (who seemingly appeared in every single restaurant and bar across Chicago!). There were so many familiar faces, included the Governor and First Lady MK, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson, Adam Vitale, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff and Frank Jeffery, Nora Daley Conroy, Steve Lombardo, Mike Siegel, Alderman Tom Tunney, Mark Olley, Sherry Lea Holson, Chuck Jordan, Virginia and Josh Hale, Sara Albrecht, Leslie Hindman, Joe Gromacki and many more. When Neal was asked how long the party would last, he said, “Until they kick us out and the lights go out.” Gotta love his spirit!
Bill Murray and Grant DePorter at fun party at Harry Caray's Navy Pier.
Punxsutawney Phil, aka Chicago Harry, was a little reluctant to come out of his tree stump for the grand celebration at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier on Feb. 2 but, after handler Mark Szafran finally wrangled him
Marilynn Gardner and Beth Heller.
out, the results weren’t good – he saw his shadow, ergo 6 more weeks of winter! The light-hearted, fun-filled event planned by Grant DePorter (Harry Caray’s CEO) and team, was “100% what they were hoping for.” From the guest list to the event details, it was a smile a minute. Grant
With the fabulous Erica Mann Ramis.
replicated the entire Groundhog Day event straight from details in the film. The free-to-the-public event also included a Celebration of Life for the film’s director Harold Ramis (with screenplay by Danny Rubin and Ramis). It was the 10th anniversary of Harold’s passing and his widow, Erica Mann Ramis, was on hand to honor him along with fans and cast members. (Harold was also a partner in the restaurant.) Harry
Jamie Gabala and Chuck.
Caray’s backyard patio, where the ceremony took place, was filled along with a bank of cameras from every TV station in town. Almost every cast member showed up except for Andie McDowell and a couple others. When Bill Murray walked onstage (he had not been announced as attending), the crowd went wild. Cast members in
Jake Hamilton, Fox-32 film critic.
attendance included Brian Doyle-Murray (Buster Green), Marita Geraghty (Nancy Taylor), Robin Duke (Doris the Waitress), David Pasquesi (the Psychiatrist), Peggy Roeder (the Piano Teacher) and Richard Henzel (the DJ), Ken Hudson Campbell (Man in the Hall) and Richard Henzel (DJ voice heard on clock radio). This was the first time the memorable cast has officially reunited since the film’s release in 1993. Actors absent
Betsy Shepherd, Marilynn Gardner and friend.
from the stage and who called in with messages included Chris Elliott (Larry) and Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned Ryerson). Erica read a message from former President Obama: “Harold’s movies make us laugh, but they do more than that. They encourage us to root for the underdog, to identify with the outsider and to
Sandy Golub (R) and friend.
remember that we’re all capable of changing for the better.” Brian Doyle-Murray as “Buster Green,” President of the Chicago Groundhog Club, initiated the Groundhog Day Ceremony where Chicago Harry, the live groundhog, emerged from his tree stump to reveal 6 more weeks of winter. Chicago Alderman Brendan Reilly closed out the ceremony by reading a City of Chicago proclamation
The beloved Tom Skilling.
declaring it Harold Ramis Day in Chicago and the group onstage toasted with the drink from the film, sweet vermouth on the rocks with a twist. Harry Caray’s Tavern transformed into a truly immersive Groundhog Day experience, featuring food and beverages inspired by Groundhog Day’s Tip Top Café, a snowman, and large ice sculptures, similar to those seen
Former Governor Pat Quinn and friend.
in the movie. Several artifacts from Harold’s storied career were on display including the Armani coat Bill Murray wore in Groundhog Day, the bust of Harold Ramis that appeared in the 2016 version of Ghostbusters, the jumpsuits worn by Harold Ramis and Bill Murray in Ghostbusters, and several of Harold’s leather-bound shooting scripts including Groundhog Day. Navy Pier also participated in the fun
Richard Roeper and Roe Conn.
festivities. The film and soundtrack played inside the Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion and an image of a groundhog was featured as the centerpiece of the Centennial Wheel. Various restaurants on the Pier served Groundhog Day specials, and Navy Pier’s Sable Hotel called itself the “Pennsylvanian Hotel” for the day in
Erica Ramis with Chaz Ebert (R) and friend.
honor of the hotel featured in the movie. Notables seen on the scene included former Governor Pat Quinn, Senator Dick Durbin, Aldermen Brian Hopkins and Brendan Reilly, Fox-32’s Jake Hamilton, Roe Conn, Richard Roeper,
Chicago Harry and his handler.
Marilynn Gardner (Navy Pier president/CEO), Bonni Pear, Chaz Ebert, Joanna DePorter, Pam Kasper (Ramis’ assistant), Betsy Shepherd, Sandy Golub, Jamie Gabala, Chuck Jordan, Beth Heller, Larry Wert and Tom Skilling. Chris O. Biddle was on hand with his band of “Ghostbusters,” completely decked out in gear inspired by the film. (This group is available for any event with a donation to Children’s Hospital, if interested email him at bimbamburly@gmail.com.)
Children's Ball co-chairs Dr. Elizabeth Reyes and Andrew Reyes.
The Children’s Research Fund’s signature event, “The Children’s Ball,” returned this year to the Hilton Chicago. Aptly themed “Curiosity Cures”, more than 900 Chicagoans came together for the black-tie gala hosted by Dr. Elizabeth and Andrew Reyes, the 2023 Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball co-chairs. Over $3.75 million was raised at the event, helping to raise the total to $4.65 million for the organization’s annual campaign. The funds raised will
Kate Gibbons and Lauren Shanley.
support the Children’s Research Fund’s three-year, $9 million commitment to Advanced Therapeutics at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. An enthusiastic
CRF members Aaron and Nichole Charfoos and kids.
drumline led guests from the reception to the International Ballroom, where guests were welcomed with a dance set by Becca Kaufman Orchestra. After welcoming remarks, guests enjoyed an energetic set from a School of Rock Band, featuring young talent from the North Shore. Following dinner, a program featured a moving patient video and a paddle raise. The evening included remarks from the Children’s Ball event co-chairs Dr. Elizabeth and Andrew Reyes, who spoke about their
Colby Friedman, Alexandra Friedman and Amanda Gorter.
dedication to pediatric health. Andrew’s family has a long involvement in Lurie Children’s and Elizabeth has a
connection there as a physician. In addition to remarks from Lurie Children’s President & CEO Dr. Thomas Shanley, and Children’s Research Fund chair Peter Bensinger, Jr., the audience was inspired by the words and work of Dr. Sonali Chaudhury, who spoke compellingly about a promising new treatment for the most aggressive forms of childhood leukemia. Guests
Chris Reyes, Anne Reyes, Dr. Elizabeth Reyes and Andrew Reyes.
then watched an inspiring video about Ella, a young patient of Dr. Chaudhury’s, and her family, who were in attendance at the event. This year’s leading event sponsors included presenting sponsors Jewel Osco
Allie Bensinger, Peter Bensinger, Jr. and Brette Bensinger.
and Hinsdale-based investment firm OceanM19, as well as Enova, Pancoe Family Foundation and Savills, among others. Lurie Children’s has a network of over 20 outpatient and primary care locations and 10 partner hospitals, providing top pediatric care across the greater Chicago area. Lurie Children’s relies on philanthropic support to care for more than 260,000 children each year. Learn more at luriechildrens.org. childrensresearchfund.org. (Photos by Ana Miyares)
Anyone who knows me, knows how proud I am of my Playboy history. And, for a recent podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Hef and Kimberly Conrad Hefner's oldest son, Marston. I've met him before but it
John St. Augustine- so lucky to have him as podcast producer and co-host!
was only in passing so this was my first chance to really get to know him a little better. What surprised me was how deeply kind and thoughtful he was. Before the interview, I had listened to other podcasts with some of Hef's former girlfriends (Bridget and Holly) and wife Crystal, all of whom (except for Bridget, so FAR!) have written scathing books about Hef and their life with Playboy. I was astounded to find that he seemingly had no animosity whatsoever about this. He even suggested he understood that by saying things like they did about his dad, they might "sell more books or attract more followers." We cover a wide range of topics, from what life was like at the Mansion to advice his famous dad shared. It was a joyful revisiting! Anyway, listen HERE and let me know what you think.
Flyover attraction principals discussing the experience at Chef Art Smith's Reunion at Navy Pier.
A media event for the new Flyover attraction was held in advance of its opening at Chef Art Smith’s Reunion restaurant recently with the principals of the experience on hand to explain what all the buzz is about. A simple answer is that it’s a “love letter to Chicago” that is now open at the Pier, in the old IMAX space. On hand for a
Chef Art Smith and urban historian Shermann 'Dilla' Thomas.
Q&A were Lisa Adams (COO and executive producer), Rick Rothschild (creative director), David Mossop (film writer and director/ associate creative director), Rich Daniels (music director), Elliott Wheeler (score composter and executive music producer) and Dr. Walt Whitman (founder/CEO Soul Children of Chicago).
Catie Keogh (L) and cute friends.
After the guests mixed and mingled and enjoyed Chef Art’s delicious appetizers, the group (mentioned above) sat down for a lengthy discussion. Adams stressed the mission of Flyover, “to amplify some of the epic places on the planet and be true to that.” Rothschild spoke about the new technology used to make this attraction possible and noted his love for our city. “Chicago has one of the most beautiful urban landscapes in the world and certainly in America.” The ride seats 61 people who can view
Lisa Fielding doing an interview-she's always working. 🙂
The Flyover gang's all here!
the attraction on a 65-foot spherical screen as they glide on a flight journey through Chicago. The experience uses a state-of-the-art moving platform with six degrees of motion that will enable guests to feel every sweeping movement of the experience. Special effects, including wind, mist and location-specific scents, will heighten the immersive experience as guests hang suspended with their feet dangling above stunning natural and urban wonders. Rothschild added, “The
The Flyover attraction includes so many cool spots here, including The Joffrey Ballet's rehearsal studio.
ride is fully immersive, not a VR, goggled or glasses experience. It is exceedingly high resolution with a 3-dimensional soundtrack. It’s the most immersive
The Flyover experience, now at Navy Pier.
environmental system we’ve ever put into a ride. We hope it reveals the soul of Chicago, both of its people and the city.” David Mossop shared, “Everything is so beautiful here. Even more so is the beauty of its people, their grit, spirit and integrity. Chicago is just cool, it’s cooler than the other cities, easily." (Flyover is open now, tickets and info can be found here. Adult tickets are $24.95, children 13 and under, $14.95 and military $19.95. To view the trailer, click here.) (The event was produced by Noreen Heron, Heron Agency.)
Hal Rubenstein with event co-chairs Dusty Stemer and Toni Canada.
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum scored again hosting yet another wonderful event, this time with two of the top insiders of the fashion world. Hal Rubenstein, a longtime fashion director, consultant, media personality and author, appeared in conversation with Fern Mallis, the award-
Costume Council president David Mordini and friends.
winning creator of New York Fashion Week. The event was held at the Women’s Athletic Club on March 6 and co-chaired by Toni Canada and Dusty Stemer. During the hour-long interview, attendees enjoyed a thorough, informative and incredibly funny interview that explored television’s influence on everyday style throughout the past 70 years. The discussion centered around Rubenstein’s new book, “Dressing the Part: Television’s Most Stylish Shows.” Rubenstein and Mallis led the crowd
Hal and Shauna Montgomery, a table sponsor.
through a joyful romp of TV fashion and its impact on style today. The book begins with fashions from the hit series “Brideshead Revisited” and goes all the way through to “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” In between, we see
Cathy Bartholomay and Paula Borg.
trends from “Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “The Lucy Show,” “Downton Abbey,” “The Crown,” “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour,” “Sex and the City” and so many others. The audience was riveted to the conversation onstage that was also accompanied by a carefully curated video featuring the fashions and TV shows mentioned in the book. Event sponsors were Liz Stiffel, Karen Gray-Krehbiel, Pamella Capitanini (who was also champagne sponsor), Erica Meyer, Randolph Street Market, Noren Ungaretti, Lisa Warshauer and Richard and Diane Weinberg. Table sponsors were Shelley and William Farley and Shauna Montgomery.
with GLAAD's Vanguard Award in L.A.This award is presented to allies who have made a significant difference in promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people and issues. Previous honorees include Bad Bunny, Beyoncé and JAY-Z, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Kerry Washington, Cher, Janet Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor, Kacey Musgraves and Antonio Banderas. Congrats to our Chilli AND Oprah!_______________________________________________________________________
Tre Dita's dramatic double-height dining room.
Tre Dita, the latest addition to Lettuce Entertain You’s restaurant portfolio, made a grand entrance onto Chicago’s dining scene with a splash of glitz, glamour and drama at the St. Regis on March 13. The exclusive opening event welcomed over 400 guests, including VIPs, local notables and even a former
Chuck with Sylvia Perez and her daughter Magali Blasdell.
mayor. Tre Dita (pronounced trā dē-tä) means three fingers in Italian and is a nod to the thickness of a traditional bistecca Fiorentina that the restaurant served on opening night from its open-hearth wood fired grill. The Tuscan steakhouse, located in the St. Regis at 401 E. Wacker, is in collaboration with award-winning Chef Evan Funke (of Felix, Mother Wolf). As guests arrived and checked in, they were serenaded by live music as photographers captured the
Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Les Coney and friend.
moments. Chicly clad attendants directed partygoers to the fifth floor where the main event unfolded. The Melman family, renowned for their commitment to excellence, never do anything in half measures and this
Tom Kehoe with glam friends.
restaurant was no exception. A dramatic two-story dining room/bar area offered breathtaking views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. There were so many activations and serving stations that invitees were given a map upon entry. On the mezzanine, an artist was busily sketching a scantily clad model lounging on a sofa as a server poured generous measures of Amaro Nonino from a glass spout.
Robin and Mark Tebbe.
A lavish antipasti table was nearby. A highlight of the night, and one which drew a continuous line, was Chef Funke’s bistecca Fiorentina station. Antipasti tables adorned with magnificent floral arrangements were spread throughout the space as well as wine tastings. One room was dedicated to desserts with a gelati cart and Italian cookies while another station served delicious house-made
Dr. Julius Few and beautiful new fiancee Ali Parenti.
pasta. Live jazz added to the festive atmosphere. Seen on the scene were former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Linda Johnson Rice with daughter Alexa Rice, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Rocky Mosele, the Landan Twins (Andrew and Jon), Sylvia Perez with daughter Magali Blasdell, Dr. Julius Few, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Phil Vettel, Les Coney, Chef Jean Joho (Miru), Desiree Rogers, Beth Heller, Karen and Phil Stefani, Tom Kehoe, Matt Rodrigues, Cortney Hall, Mike Siegel, Monsignor Velo, Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza, Martha and Molly Melman, Lou Canellis, Nina Mariano, Billy Marovitz, Pasquale Gianni, and so many others. (Tre Dita, 401 E. Wacker, treditarestaurant.com)
So many thanks to Carol Fox & Associates on its recent "Cultural Catalyst" campaign, "30 Women Who Impact Chicago's Art & Entertainment Scenes." I am honored to be included among these amazing women: Lynne Belsky (Time to Dance); Tracy Blackwell (Blue Man Group Chicago); Andrea Darlas (WLS-AM; Lori Dimun (Harris Theater); Lisa Fielding (WBBM-AM); Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell (Hubbard Street Dance Chicago); Brooke Flanagan (Steppenwolf Theatre Company); Marissa Lynn Ford (League of Chicago Theatres); Nora Gainer (Art Institute of Chicago);
Collage of honorees.
Michelle Gonzalez (Choose Chicago); Sandra Guthman (Polk Brothers Foundation; Erin Harkey (Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events); Arica Hilton (Hilton Contemporary); Gail Kalver (formerly Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and River North Dance Company); Donna LaPietra (Chicago Public Library Foundation); Diana Martinez (McAninch Arts Center); Princess Mhoon (Chicago Black Legacy Dance Project); Cynthia Noble (Art on THE MART); Elise Paschen (Poet); Ellen Sandor (Artist); Janet Carl Smith (formerly Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events); Kia Smith (South Chicago Dance Project); LeeAnn Trotter (NBC Chicago); Candace Jordan (Crains Chicago Business, Chicago Star) and others, to be announced.
Bobbi Panter with Little B and C2. (Photo by John Reilly)
Congrats Bobbi Panter! Bobbi’s back and Nilodor Pet Brands has got her! Nilodor, a leader in odor elimination and cleaning solutions across various markets, has
Bobbi with Little B and C1 (photo by John Reilly).
announced the return of Bobbi Panter, renowned for her high-quality pet shampoos. Bobbi's journey began with homemade blends in her kitchen to aid her pet's sensitive skin, leading to a partnership with Nilodor Pet Brands, which eventually acquired her brand. Known for shunning harsh chemicals, her products gained popularity among groomers and pet owners. Bobbi's re-entry into the company brings excitement, with plans to enhance existing lines and develop new products. Her commitment to pets extends beyond products, evident in her philanthropic endeavors. Nilodor Pet Brands, committed to safe and effective pet care solutions, looks forward to collaborating with Bobbi Panter once again, as they continue to innovate in the pet product category.
Four Seasons GM Stephen Wancha, former GM Denise Flanders and opening GM Hans Willimann.
Adorn Bar & Restaurant recently hosted the "Seasons of Culinary Excellence" dinner, featuring renowned alumni chefs from Four Seasons properties on March 21. Led by Executive
Four Seasons alumni chefs Kevin Hickey, Carrie Nahabedian, Sarah Stegner and partner George Bumbaris, and current Four Seasons Chef of Adorn Richie Farina.
Chef Richie Farina, the event celebrated Spring ingredients with a four-course dinner, showcasing the culinary legacy of Four Seasons. Wine experts and former hotel employees added to the experience with meaningful toasts and reflections on their time at Four Seasons. Guests included notable figures Ina Pinkney, Phil Vettel, and Chef Art Smith, as well as esteemed former hotel employees who have risen to remarkable success, including Scott Taber, Senior Vice President of Global Hospitality at Four Seasons, and Kylie Hallinan, Corporate Director of People and Culture. The event raised funds for Howard Brown Health, supporting their mission of providing healthcare and support to the LGBTQ+ community.
Chicago culinary legends Phil Vettel (accompanied by friend Carole), Breakfast Queen Ina Pinkney, Chef Paul Virant, Rebecca Fyfe, Dr. Jennifer Virant and Beth Lang.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is always fighting the good fight. Her recent study, "The Few Decide for the Many," about the appallingly low number of voters was an eye opener. Read it here. She also appeared in Neil Steinberg's column in the Sun-Times on her fabulous and uber-popular WVON radio show. Killin' it!
Congrats are in order for longtime, much loved media star Fred Weintraub, who was the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award. Presented by the City of Chicago/Chicago Public Schools, the award recognized his role in promoting high school sports as the executive producer of "Game of the Week" for Weigel Broadcasting, The U and CW 26. Fred has worked in Chicago broadcasting for his entire career beginning in 1985.
The Joffrey Ballet keeps serving up perfection! Make sure you mark your calendars for their next performance, "Midsummer Night's Dream." "Far from a Shakespearean tale, Alexander Ekman's production is a mind-bending trip to a surreal realm of unearthly delights." (April 25 through May 5, at the Lyric Opera House, joffrey.org)
The Joffrey Ballet's "Midsummer Night's Dream" will run from 4/25- 5/5. (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
Music of the Baroquereturns to the Kehrein Center for the Arts on Tuesday, April 16, for "Classical Creatures at the Kehrein." The animal kingdom comes alive through charming works for the orchestra. Dogs bark in "Spring" from Vivaldi's famous Four Seasons. Crickets chirp in Telemann's "Cricket Symphony" and frogs ribbit in his work for solo violin and orchestra, all led by Nicholas Kraemer. (For tickets and more info, click here!)
Music of the Baroque, coming to the Kehrein April 16.
The Service Club of Chicago will host its annual Spring Luncheon, this year at the Ritz-Carlton on Friday, May 17. Co-chaired by Julia Jacobs, Whitney Reynolds and BethanyFlorek, the event will begin at 10:30 am with a cocktail reception, raffle, auctions and a hat competition. For tickets/info, click here! And to see other popular events, see here: Chicago Public Library Foundation- “A Night in the Stacks,” Harold Washington Library, Friday, April 5, 7-11 pm; Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation– Bear Tie Ball- Sat., April 6, Pazzo, 311 S. Wabash; Vernissage, opening night of Expo Chicago, Thursday, April 11, 5 – 7 pm, Festival Hall, Navy Pier; Luminary Awards Dinner, Four Seasons, Wed., April 24, 6-9 pm. (Benefiting Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center); Ronald McDonald House Charities, Geraghty (2520 S. Hoyne), 6 pm, Saturday, April 27; Brookfield Zoo “Whirl” fundraiser, Saturday, April 27, Hilton Chicago, 6:30 pm; Chicago Lighthouse's "Seeing What's Possible" Gala, Friday, May 31, Four Seasons, 6 pm.
On Thursday, April 18, join the Service Club Auxiliary Board at The Green, 2131 N. Elston for a brand-new event. Guests will be able to golf and mingle over food and drinks while enjoying state-of-the-art golf simulators in a realistic and immersive experience. Whether you are interested in golfing a competitive 18 holes or would rather enjoy leisurely games with friends, you will have access to world-renowned courses and various ways to play. There is something for everyone – beginners and experts! Tickets are $80 per person and includes 2 hours of golf, food and 2 drink tickets. Info here!
Kehoe Designs is HIRING! There are great opportunities for talented people who are interested in positions as Event Coordinator, Creative Services Manager, Graphics Manager and Floral Design Manager. If this sounds like YOU or someone you might know? Check out available openings here!
If it's Spring, then art fairs and festivals are right around the corner. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements from Amdur Productions! They have a fabulous art show schedule planned for this summer, beginning May 11. Complete listings are here. 🙂
And the much loved Randolph Street Market will return to Plumber's Hall, 1340 W. Washington with loads of vintage fun, food, entertainment and SALLY! Sally Schwartz founded this market in 2003 and it gets bigger and better every year! Dates this year are: May 25/26 and Sept. 28/29. We just can't wait!
Lots of exciting events on the horizon. Here are a few of the Candid Candace- approved offerings. 🙂
Spring is in full swing at 900 North Michigan Shops, with the arrival of The Easter Bunny! This whimsical character will be on hand through Saturday, March 30, to pose for keepsake photos with kids of all ages. And, with The Bunny comes seasonal fun for the whole family, with everything from mimosas for Mom to spring themed art classes for kids. There will be Egg decorating classes at Bubbles Academy, interactive, virtual games at Top Golf Swing Suites, a variety of chef-driven dining options and craft cocktails from Aster Hall and so much more! For more info, click here!
Now through March 30 The Easter Bunny is at The 900 North Michigan Shops!
The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation will hold its annual fashion show/luncheon in the Cancer Survivor's Garden at Maggie Daley Park on Thursday, June 20, beginning at 5:30 pm. The event will be co-chaired byPam Capitanini, Janell Adames, and Jacquelyn Petrovich with the fashion show produced by ZZAZZ Productions. (For tickets/more info, click here!)
Congrats to the Guest House Foundation on its upcoming 25th anniversary celebration on Monday, April 15, at Carnivale. Produced by Art Sims, Guest House Community Outreach Manager, the event will feature the fabulous Lisa Fielding as celeb emcee and actor Tim Kazurinsky. Guest House offers affordable, comfortable, temporary housing to medical patients and their families in need. No qualified guest is turned away due to an inability to pay. Military vets can stay for free. For tickets and more info for the event, "The House Always Wins" visit guesthousechicago.org Good luck ART and congrats on your new position!
FAshion artist Borris Powell wants to take us back in time with his next show, King's Kourt. Get ready for his most explosive FAshion Theater Show ever. Powell's love for Kings and Queens and their royal lives in the 17th century is what has inspired his next show, specifically, King Louis XIV, builder of Versailles. Borris wants to take you back to a time of Opulence. Join him for a night with The Sun King and see what it's like to be invited to King Borris' Kourt. Proceeds benefit Saving Lives Foundation, a 501c3 organization. (For tickets/info, click here: www.borrispowell.com )
Our recent trip to Palm Beach was a life-saver. Stress melted away at the first palm tree sighting. Jimmy Buffet had a great idea when he titled one of his albums "Changes in Latitude, Changes in Attitude." No truer words could apply to a vacation getaway to Florida. We were lucky to return to Palm Beach, even though the weather was better in
My family poolside.
Chicago at the time, go figure! It was Penny the Pencil Neck’s first airplane ride and she was a champ. Never made a peep the entire time. It’s sad though that, nowadays, airplane travel isn’t what it used to be. I don’t expect everyone to travel in a bow tie and tuxedo and it’s not really about
With Leslie Hindman in PB.
what people wear, it’s the chaos that I dread. You never know what to expect, flights are changed on a whim, doors are blowing off and seats are now one inch apart. It’s not exactly the luxe life but it’s the only alternative and we can’t afford our own plane, yet. We used to love to drive to Florida, stopping along the way at charming roadside restaurants. Now everything is a chain and much less
Penny the Pencil Neck's first plane ride. She did great!
interesting, unless it’s a Cracker Barrel, of course! We have a few favorites there that are always our go-to’s,
Our favorite store in PB.
like Pizza al Fresco. There’s no place in town that has a more charming ambiance- or better pizza. We also love Swifty’s at the Colony. We’ve been a fan of this spot since Robert Caravaggi managed it in NYC. We have so many fond memories of being there with friends and so, it was natural, that we would love its Palm Beach location too. We also love La Galoue, again a favorite from NYC. We dined at Café Flora again too, but even though the ambiance is wonderful in a courtyard right in front of my friend Kim Renk’s fabulous store, the
With Kim Renk Dryer and Ray Kelly.
food was underwhelming. We stayed at a friend’s gorgeous home a half block from the ocean. Her pool is surrounded by sky-high hedges where monk parakeets and hummingbirds can be found. It’s so tranquil, itwas hard to leave. One night, we went to a grand home onMiddle Road fora party thrown by Palm Beach’s ultimate host and hostess, Greg and Kim Renk Dryer. It seems every party they have shows up in all the posh magazines and shiny sheets and this one was no different. The guest of honor was Ray Kelly, the longest serving commissioner in NYPD history. After his handling of the World Trade Center bombing, he was offered the position of FBI Director, which he turned down. Kelly served as a
Penny the Pencil Neck enjoying Rocco's Tacos.
Marine Colonel, fought in the Vietnam war and was endorsedby Sen. Schumer to become Secretary of Homeland Security. In other words, he is an all-around bad-ass. On this night, we was surrounded by young ladies all clamoring for his attention. Even at age 82, the man is still attractive. Oh, what a night! We ended our stay in PB with a dinner at Rocco’s Tacos, another favorite, before heading to Chuck’s favorite spot, Oh My Chocolates! ice cream shop! It’s no wonder people live so long in Florida. Smiles for miles.
PAWS Chicago brings back it's howl-worthy Animal Magnetism party on Friday, April 26, to Morgan Manufacturing. For tickets and more info, click here! _______________________________________________________________________
Illinois Supreme Court Justice Joy Cunningham and her significant other, Dr. John Hefferon.
And last, but not least, big cograts to Illinois Supreme Court Justice Joy Virginia Cunningham, who won her race by a landslide! She will be retained on the court where she belongs. I also want to thank all my friends who voted for her. She truly is the real deal and Chuck and I are proud to know her.
Well, that's it for now! Thanks so much for being here with me! I hope you've enjoyed this recap of all the fun in the city of big shoulders and beyond! Chicago may have a few kinks to work out, but I think it's definitely worth holding on to. Just remember to give where you can and try to keep positive thoughts.
'Tis the season to be dazzled, and what better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by immersing yourself in the enchanting world of the 900 Shops' Illuminate 900 event? Nestled in the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, this festive extravaganza once again turned the shopping experience into a winter wonderland of lights, laughter
Six levels of holiday cheer!
and festive visuals. Illuminate 900 is planned and presented by the 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops. This mall is one of the most popular in Chicago and its event is billed as a “Holiday Love Letter to the City of Chicago.” The magical night encompassed all six floors with décor inspired by a winter wonderland. It is also Chicago’s top holiday fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Illinois. Each year, the experience features a 54-foot tree where children and adults alike feel the wonder of Christmas. Revelers young and old don their holiday finest to attend the party. Kids line up to decorate sugar cookies while grown-ups toast the season with champagne and cups of cheer. The evening included larger-than-life photo
Tommy the Real Elf, co-host Cortney Hall, Santa, co-host Matt Rodrigues and David Sanchez, an original committee member. | Photo Cortney Hall
opps and costumed holiday characters. Partygoers were seen snapping photos with Rockettes-like dancers and Toy Soldiers (by ZZAZZ Productions), a singing Angel with fantastical, oversized wings, The Real Elf, The Grinch and, of course, Santa! The culmination of the storybook evening centered around the tree-lighting. Santa was surrounded by his
The ZZAZZettes with Santa. | 900 Shops photo
host committee that included many of Chicago’s movers and shakers. He pulled the lever along with several children from Make-A-Wish Illinois. The event raised funds to help this nonprofit grant wishes to children facing challenging health circumstances – the true spirit of Christmas. Participating nonprofits and entertainers included Ballet Chicago (that performed excerpts from the fabled holiday classic “The Nutcracker”); The Real Elf (who was on hand spreading cheer and taking “Elfies”); The Grinch (from Broadway in Chicago); Forward Momentum (a contemporary dance company); Beatmix drum corps; Sur La Table (provided a sugar cookie decorating activation); and Bubbles Academy (that provided a craft-making workshop). Light bites and cocktails were served on all 6 levels. If you missed it, mark your calendars now so you can join in next year! _______________________________________________________________________
SC Gala committee members Cheryl Coleman, Bobbi Panter, chair Patty Marx, Myra Reilly, Lisa Huber and SC president Jean Antoniou. (Patrick Nugent photo)
The Service Club of Chicago presented its 133rd annual gala, this year themed “An Evening of a Million Dreams,” and indeed this organization definitely makes dreams come true through its
Longtime member Peg Scoville and her daughter.
Philanthropic Grant Program that awards grants to expand
Mark Olley, Chuck Jordan and Paul Iacono.
facilities, improve equipment and initiate new programs for Chicagoland’s nonprofit community. The event at the Four Seasons Hotel attracted 175 guests and raised over $200,000. Chaired by SC member Patty Marx and her committee, the gala was a night of friendship, beauty, and philanthropy. Michael Nouri, the handsome star of stage and screen, served as the evening’s emcee. He is best known for his television roles that include “All My Children,” “NCIS,” “Yellowstone,” and others. He is also known for his starring roles in the films “Flashdance” (1983) and “The Hidden” (1987) and has appeared in several Broadway
Cheryl Coleman and Patrick Sheehan.
and Off-Broadway plays, including the original production of
Cathy and Bill Bartholomay, who was also celebrating his birthday this night.
“Victor/Victoria.” At a party at Gibson’s the previous night, he showed what a true star he really is by taking photos with every single attendee. He continued doing so the night of the event as well. I never once saw him turn anyone down for a photo. He was a very gracious man and the crowd just loved him. On gala night, he humorously opened the program with, "As Henry VIII said to each of his wives, "I won't keep you long." The ballroom was simply decorated by The Flower Firm with an art deco feel, which was refreshing for a change. 3-foot trees bedecked in fairy lights stood atop white tablecloths topped with candles, surrounded by chic chairs that looked like they
Belvon Walker (R) and cute friend.
had come straight out of a Biedermeier showroom. The Ron Bedal Orchestra made sure everyone danced the night away. Patty Marx thanked her Steering Committee, that included Myra Reilly, Bobbi Panter, Jean Antoniou, Lisa Huber, Andrea Antoniou and Cheryl Coleman, the
Debi Catenacci and Sherrill Bodine.
sponsors and the auction committee who secured exciting silent and live auction prizes. There also was a touching moment during a video presentation that paid tribute to the late, great Kevin Sullivan, a longtime and important part of, not only the Service Club, but of many other nonprofits. The video also showcased grant recipients whose lives have been changed, including TheChicago Lighthouse, Gateway to Learning, Mane in Heaven, and others. SC member Peg
Event chair Patty Marx with Michael Nouri, emcee.
Scoville was surprised with a shout-out by SC president JeanAntoniou who acknowledged her 68-year commitment to the club. She was presented with flowers and a gift at her table that was filled with loving, proud family members.The night was a lovefest for The Service Club with members and guests showing their appreciation during a paddle raise and silent and live auctions that collectively raised approximately $124,000. The Service Club of Chicago, 133 years of giving and still going strong. (For more info/or to donate please click here) (Photos by Patrick Nugent for John Reilly Photography)
Art with Chef Mark Flanagan, chef to King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Chef Art Smith has cooked for the Dalai Lama, Oprah, and Lady Gaga and now, for the second time, he was the chosen chef for the prestigious Le Club des Chefs des Chef annual gathering. This culinary organization was founded in 1977 by Gilles Bragard to bring together chefs from national and international kitchens who act as diplomatic representatives. This illustrious group of chefs, who form a unique international network, are in contact with their own heads of state or governments. The name of the organization in English can be translated into “The Club of Chefs to Heads of State.” The event was held at Art’s 15-
Chef Art with Chef-Niles, IL Mayor George Alpogianis and Art's husband, artist Jesus Salgueiro.
year-old “Art & Soul” restaurant in Washington, D.C. Art was invited, for the second year, by The White House’s longtime Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford. Art prepared his world-famous fried chicken alongside TV star Chef Lamar Moore from the Bronzeville Winery, who prepared his beloved beef brisket. VIP chefs included Christian Garcia (Chef of HSH The Prince of Monaco); Mark Flanagan (Chef of HM the King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom); Fabrice
Key lime, apple and pecan pies, of course!
Desvignes (Chef of the President of France); Vassilis Mpekas (Chef of the President of Greece); Daniele Chian (Chef of the HM the King of Saudi Arabia); and 19 other chefs to important heads of state. Art also included his longtime Executive Chef Hector Guerrero of “Chef Art Smiths Reunion” restaurant in Chicago as well as Chef/Mayor George Alpogianis (brother of Art’s manager/partner Manolis Alpogianis); and Chef Danny
Chef Art receives his second chef jacket from Les Clubs des Chefs des Chef.
Chavez of “Art and Soul.” Besides Art’s famous chicken, guests enjoyed local Rappahanik oysters and blue crab claws which were served on the ONLY patio on Capitol Hill! A photo booth, electric violinist and local DJ added to the fun. Chef Lamar Moore’s brisket was a huge hit too, especially with Chef Mark Flannigan, Executive Royal Chef to King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who said,” I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets a Palace invite although he would have to make sure it’s the King’s beef. King Charles loves his own raised livestock, game and vegetables.” The group stayed into the wee hours and, the next evening, enjoyed another lively party, this time at the French Ambassador’s Residence. Ah, vivre la bonne vie….(Photos by Nina Palazzolo)
Chef Mark Flanagan (chef to King Charles II and Queen Camilla), Chef Art Smith, White House Chef Cristeta Comerford and her daughter, Chef Christian Garcia (chef to Prince Albert of Monaco, and Jesus Salgueiro.
Eversight 25 honorees John Robak and Dr. Maria Soledad-Cortina, with Diane Hollingsworth, president-CEO Eversight.
This year, Eversight celebrated its 25th anniversary gala at the Peninsula on Friday, Oct. 13, although the date certainly wasn’t “unlucky” for this wonderful fundraiser! Nearly 275 partygoers donned creative masks and attire to enjoy an inspiring night that supported the organization’s “gift of sight” mission and deserving honorees, John Robak (2023 Person of
Mary Ann Rose of Tamar Productions.
Vision) and Dr. Maria Soledad-Cortina (2023 Gift of Sight recipient). The beautiful décor by Tamar Productions (and Kehoe Designs who created the dramatic lobby bar area), made it a night to remember. Guests were greeted at the door by a performance artist from ZZAZZ Productions who was dressed from head-to-toe in a sparkling silver disco-ball catsuit and the excitement built from there. The lobby was filled
Debi Catenacci, Averill Leviton, Tracey DiBuono, Tina Gravel, Sherrill Bodine, Susan Gohl and Jonathan Grabill.
with a variety of wonderful silent auction items that included a trip to the Peninsula in NYC; a trip to the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel (courtesy of the Peninsula); dinner donations from Gibson’s, Maple & Ash, Steak 48, La Scarola and more; a sweets package from Eli’s Cheesecake; Fumee Claire candles; a Leah Chavie Skincare package; a signed “Starstruck” book and DVD set courtesy of Michael Kutza; a White Sox package; two beautiful, original paintings courtesy of Greg Hyder; a hair-care package courtesy of Charles
Tracey DiBuono and her ZZAZZ Productions donated this darling disco girl for the event.
Ifergan Salon; and so much more. The backdrop of the lobby bar was an homage to our 25 Silver Spectacle theme created by Kehoe Designs. Two 5-foot-tall candelabras flanked each side, adding even more drama to
Marta Garczarczyk, Eversight Director of Philanthropy
this stunning focal point. The wow factor continued into the Grand Ballroom, thanks to Mary Ann Rose and her team from Tamar Productions. Disco balls were placed on every table with lighted balloons and silver stars hanging from the ceiling. The bold-colored uplighting added to the spectacular spectacle. Additionally, Mary Anne donated gifts for each attendee – a beautiful, silver-plated star keychain. As guests mingled and ultimately found their seats, a
Alyssa Quinlan,CEO Hindman Auctions.
video of past event photos scrolled across the screen. Michael Caputo and I returned for our 6th year as proud co-chairs and welcomed the crowd. We acknowledged Visionary Sponsors: Paul & Cindy Vogel, John Robak; and Leadership Sponsors: Collette Taylor Worthing Donor Fund, IL Eye and Ear Infirmary; and Table Sponsors: BMO Harris, Cabrera Capital Markets, Chicago Cornea Consultants, and Gift of Hope; and Supporting Sponsors: Ken and Irma Bates, Gail Garza in honor of Dr. E. Lee, Susan Gohl, Jarvis Foundation, PNC, William and Andrea Zopp. We also acknowledged
Artist/event producer, Greg Hyder.
Chicago Star and Chicago Magazine as media sponsors. Diane Hollingsworth, Eversight President and CEO, shared a history of the organization which began in 1947. She
Bethany and Andrew Kitick
said it is the leading nonprofit eye bank. She acknowledged Chief Operations Officer, Michael O’Keefe, VP of Clinical Operations, Michael Titus, and the nonprofit’s Organ Procurement Organization, who were all in attendance. Diane asked the event’s past honorees to stand and be recognized. They were Susan Gohl, Sherrill Bodine, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Drs. Parag Majmudar, Marian Macsai, Randy Epstein, Elmer Tu and Joel Sugar, and yours truly. Marta Garczarczyk, Eversight Director of Philanthropy, shared a video showing how donor families and recipients are impacted by
Tina Gravel, Paula Borg and Melinda Jakovich-Lagrange.
the gift of sight. She then introduced our auctioneer for the evening, Alyssa Quinlan, the CEO of Hindman Auctions, who donated her valuable time for the event. She raised over $15,000! Before the honorees were introduced, partygoers enjoyed a delicious meal that started with lobster bisque soup followed by grilled
Dr. Maria Soledad-Cortina receives her Gift of Sight honor from last year's recipient Dr. Ali Djalilian.
chicken with saffron risotto, Tokyo turnips and heirloom carrots. Vanilla and rum-raisin ice cream, along with poached pears were served atop a rum cake that was flanked by a tiny wafer with the number “25.” Awwwww…… 2022 Gift of Sight honoree, Dr. Ali Djalilian, introduced this year’s honoree Dr. Maria Soledad-Cortina. He called Dr. Cortina the “Messi of corneal surgery” before reading a poem he had written about her. “She works her magic with
John Robak with his Person of Vision Award and his mentor Z Scott, president of Chicago State University.
precision and care, a healer of eyes beyond compare.” Her parents had flown in from Argentina and were at her table along with her four sons and husband. She said her dad, also an ophthalmologist, is her inspiration teaching her to believe she can be anything that she wants to be. She praised Eversight for “being on the cutting edge and providing patients and surgeons with the very best that there is to offer when it comes to
Tina Koegel and Wendy Krimins.
corneal transplantation, tissue processing and research.” Bethany Florek introduced her friend John Robak, our 2023 Person of Vision. She praised John's clear vision and leadership in the international water infrastructure industry as CEO and Board Chair of Greeley and Hansen. Bethany acknowledged and
Proud to serve for the 5th year as co-chair with the adorable Michael Caputo.
thanked Anne Leventry (of Ball Horticultural Company) as the person who hired John for his first HR job. Bethany highlighted John's many philanthropic endeavors, such as helping create the Chicago Police Foundation (with Mary Ann Rose) and raising millions for the CPD. He currently chairs the Chicago Police – Community Policing Advisory Panel and is involved in various organizations like the Chicago Botanic Garden, World Business Chicago, and Chicago Sister Cities
Magnificent ballroom decor by Mary Ann Rose, Tamar Productions.
International. Through John’s outreach and competitiveness, the event grossed the most in the history of Eversight before it even began. Robak thanked all those who came out to support him, including his fellow Daniel Burnham Classmates from Leadership Greater Chicago. Newly retired from Greeley & Hansen, he led the sale of this firm that he had worked at for 20 years as
Feathered friends!
Chairman/CEO. He said, “I have always had a deep passion for uplifting people and communities and am proud to hold leadership roles or actively participate in a number of civic and philanthropic organizations whose work really matters.” He praised Eversight for the wonderful work they do and quoted Helen Keller, “The only
Terrence Chapell and friend.
thing worse than being blind is having sight and no vision.” He concluded his speech with, “Eversight will lead with vision and provide those in need with hope and a brighter future.”Throughout the evening, there was fabulous music provided by DJ Spin VXN and electric violinist Rachael Miller. This event has it all, an uplifting and critical mission, a wonderful, hard-working committee, very deserving honorees and it’s FUN! Congrats to Eversight, Diane Hollingsworth, MartaGarczarczyk, Jenna Berry, and all who supported, donated, shared event news, and attended to make this year’s event a record-breaker! It was an honor to return for the 6th year as a co-chair with the wonderful Michael Caputo. (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
Eversight's A-Team: Marta Garczarczyk, Diane Hollingsworth, Michael Caputo, Candid Candace, Mary Ann Rose and Bethany Florek Kitick.
Honoree Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with her beautiful family.
The Chicago Lighthouse hosted its biggest FLAIR fundraiser to date at the Ritz-Carlton with over 275 supporters in attendance. The event, “Eye on Style,” celebrated a decade on the runway promoting access and inclusion. The fashion show was produced by honoree Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (of ZZAZZ Productions) and featured models both with and
Chicago Lighthouse's Lindsay Inglis, Dr. Janet Szlyk (CL president – CEO) and Karoline Kijowski.
Dynamic co-chairs Sheree Schimmer, Sherry Lea Holson and Sherrill Bodine.
and Contessa Bottega with a special appearance from participants in the Lighthouse’s Youth Transition Program modeling fashions from Macy’sPersonal Stylist (presenting sponsor) in the finale. You could feel the buzz as soon as you walked into the room. Attendees, who had raided their closets for their chicest looks, chatted excitedly with fellow guests in anticipation of what would become the best show to date (in my humble opinion). Exciting runway participants
With Chef Art Smith on the runway!
included the legendary Chef Art Smith, popular daytime talk show host Val Warner and her handsome husband
Mr. & Mrs. – Val and Jobba
ElijahJobba Maxey Jr., and a former Miss Continental and popular female impersonator, Chilli Pepper. Tracey’s beautiful daughters also modeled and were superstars in their own rights, Darci Pinello and Disa Simpson. Men dazzled on the runway too. Seen strutting their stuff were Mark Olley, Scott Bobek, Samuel Carter, Elbert Ford, Dr. Rashmi Kapur, Shaun Rajah, Learnus Ross, Dr. Thasarat Vajaranant, and John Walcher (who graciously donated his time as auctioneer, with the Lighthouse’s Sandy Murillo). Youth Transition Program models included Lance Gladney and John Johnson. (Female Youth Transition Models were Ellie St. Arnaud and Yo’Mari Williams.) Guests enjoyed a sit-down luncheon, a cocktail reception, a
Maria Giordano wearing Elda de la Rosa.
packed silent auction, and a pop-up shopping experience
Bevy of Beauties at FLAIR!
before the event. The Hood Swift Woman with Flair Award was presented to Tracey by co-chairs Sheree Schimmer, Sherrill Bodine and Sherry Lea Holson. I was honored to return as a co-host with Tracey. Tracey has been a supporter of this event, “FLAIR: Fun, Fashion and Philanthropy,” from the start. During her speech, she acknowledged the late Kevin Sullivan, who was the first to suggest her as an honoree. Everyone immediately and unanimously agreed. During her acceptance speech, Tracey thanked the organization, Dr.
Sherry Lea Fox and her table of cute friends.
Janet Szlyk (Chicago Lighthouse President and CEO), the
John Walcher, who donated his time as auctioneer, with fiancee Ellie Sethness.
co-chairs, her family, DJ Akib, her team at ZZAZZ Productions, the Lighthouse’s Lindsay Inglis and Karoline Kijowski, the participating stores and designers, and others.“Being here made me think about how life changes, in the blink of an eye. I came to understand the amazing models with their difficulties and then my husband, after a day of golfing, came home and said he couldn’t see the ball. He
Designer Peach Carr and Linda Yu.
needed immediate retina surgery – and he healed. A few years later, my daughter had her second baby and also needed immediate retina surgery – and she healed. Today, I have a cousin here who told me she needed to go to the Lighthouse recently to get a better magnifying glass because she has macular degeneration, and she is trying to heal as best she can. What I know now is that the Lighthouse is here to help all who are in need, from the
Tracey receives her award from co-chairs Sherry Lea Holson, Sheree Schimmer and Sherrill Bodine.
young children and the teenagers to the seniors, no one is refused help. And did you know that they’re behind the scenes manning the call centers for the DMV, the Tollway, and many hospitals, always ready to help and refusing no one in financial
need. I am beyond grateful and deeply touched and honored to be celebrating this decade of fashion as this year’s honoree. I hope that you know that the Lighthouse is here for you, in the blink of an eye, if life changes,” Tracey tearfully shared, as the crowd cheered its approval. Dr. Janet Szlyk spoke about the history of the organization, that was founded in 1906 by a group of socially prominent
Debi Catenacci and Scott Bobek.
women that included Winona Hood and Edith Swift. (This is why the award is called the Hood/Swift Woman with Flair Award, so now ‘ya know!) Dr. Janet called Tracey, a “modern day Winona Hood.” She also shared the story of her older sister who became blind due to too much oxygenation in her incubator but, despite her difficulties, became a confident, highly independent, successful adult. Because
Sugar & Spice (Almira Yllana and Giovanna Krozel) with Tina Gravel.
of this experience with her sister, when Dr. Janet came to the Lighthouse, she knew they needed “robust and strong youth transition programs,” which they most certainly do. Besides a moving tribute to the late Kevin Sullivan, the event also
Tracey and Joey sittin' in a tree.
acknowledged past honorees: the late Vonita Reescer, Jamie Hague, Kristina McGrath, Cheri Lawrence, Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz, Susan Griffiths Gohl, Sherry Lea Holson, and yours truly. Proceeds will support The Chicago Lighthouse’s Children’s
Mark Olley, looking dapper as always.
and Youth Programs that help young individuals with disabilities build confidence and become independent adults. Mark your calendars now for this event next year. It's always a sellout and for such a wonderful cause. I'm very proud to return as a co-emcee with honoree Tracey. Hope to see you all next year! Special thanks to Val, Jobba, Art and Chilli for being such exceptional VIP runway stars! (To donate, or for more info on The Chicago Lighthouse, please click here). (Photos by Mila Samokhina)
Rosario Guillen and Sheri Passalino, Tina Monaghan and Ryan Galloway, and Mario Sullivan with Amanda Hickey- winning dance teams! (Photo by Anderson Photography)
Giordano Dance Chicago presented its exciting “Dancing with the Giordano Stars – ALL STARS" event at Park West on October 5. Patterned after the popular ABC hit show, “Dancing with the Stars,” this dance competition paired professional GDC dancers with the
Richard Weinberg with dance partner Vasylyna Barabash and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas.
who’s who of Chicago’s civic, social, and business communities (All Stars who had competed before in this competition) to vie for “Best Male Dancer,” “Best Female Dancer” and “People’s Choice” honors before a panel of judges. Park West was packed with supporters and the
Kip Helverson and Michael McStraw.
buzz was palpable as the excitement mounted for the upcoming competition. There were a lot of new faces in the audience this year as GDC continues to attract more fans. Yours truly, a proud GDC board member, welcomed the crowd, explained the rules and introduced emcee Ryan Baker (CBS-2 news anchor). VIP judges included: Kevin McGirr
Dr. Stacie McClane's posse was out in force to root for her!
(dance aficionado/benefactor); Irma Suarez Ruiz (Artistic Director, Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater); and Lauren Warnecke (dance critic for Chicago Tribune). In the opening dance number, the company honored Tina Turner followed by the introduction of the 11 dance teams. They included the following dancers and their All
With my co-emcee Ryan Baker, Nan Giordano (artistic director) and Erica Lynette Edwards (executive director).
Star partners (non-professionals are listed first): Matt Bozzo and Sasha Lazarus; Joe Brown and Katie Rafferty; Gorman Cook and Erina Ueda; Susan
Kathy Mondelli, Kristine Kinder and Chuck Jordan.
Flynn and Adam Houston; Nicole Klotz and Zach Heller; Pat Manus and Cesar G. Salinas; Dr.Stacie McClane and Fernando Rodriguez; Tina Monaghan and Ryan Galloway; Sheri Passalino and Rosario Guillen; David Prange and Ashley Downs; and Mario Sullivan and Amanda Hickey. All the choreography was created by the GDC dancers with the attire, music and dance styles selected by the contestants. In the end, after much applause and support for the crowd’s favorites, three couples took home the coveted silver disco ball. Winners were Tina Monaghan partnered by Ryan Galloway
Katie Rafferty and Ashley Downs.
walked away with TWO awards, Audience Favorite and Top Fundraiser; Sheri Passalino with GDC dancer Rosario Guillen won for Best Female Dancer; and Mario Sullivan with GDC dancer Amanda Hickey won for Best Male Dancer. The event also included a wonderful performance by Richard Weinberg, a former U.S. Pro-Am 9 champion, who danced an elegant waltz with Vasylyna Barabash. Before the event, a lavish buffet was served on the dance floor where guests mingled and snapped photos. Congrats to all who attended, EVERYONE was a winner! The event raised over $200,000 for the organization’s Jazz Dance/ Science & Health program in Chicago Public Schools, youth mentorship and education programs, a free ticket program, and jazz dance advocacy. (Photo by Anderson Photography and moi)
Stephanie Anderson, Dr. Joaquin and Jennifer Brieva.
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois honored Dr. Joaquin Brieva and his beautiful wife Jennifer Sutton Brieva at its recent gala. Friends and supporters came out in force to help raise over $250,000 for this life-saving nonprofit. Joaquin received a kidney transplant and his donor was in attendance, Stephanie Anderson. What a courageous and loving person to offer the gift of life. We were so sorry we couldn't attend but were there in spirit. Congrats to Joaquin and Jennifer for working so hard to raise awareness for this important charity. (To donate or learn more, click here.) The organization provides patients with resources, programs, free screenings and more.
Team Joaquin at the Hilton Chicago for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois Gala.
Navy Pier’s festive and reimagined, "Light Up the Lake 2023," an enchanting winter celebration that promises to illuminate the Chicago lakefront, is at the Pier now through Dec. 31. This dazzling program includes free and ticketed activities and invites visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit through a spectacular array of activities, lights, and seasonal delights, including the nationally acclaimed Navy Pier fireworks.
Tracey Benford and Uniting Voices board members and singers.
More than 500 guests gathered to support Uniting Voices Chicago (formerly Chicago Children’s Choir) at their Red Jacket Optional gala hosted at The Geraghty.
Uniting Voices President Josephine Lee.
Uniting Voices’ transformative youth empowerment and music education programs serve thousands of students from every neighborhood in Chicago and beyond. $1.5M was raised to support music programming, offered free of charge to students in 88 Chicago schools. Red Jacket Optional (RJO) is Uniting Voices Chicago’s largest annual fundraiser and, in the past 10 years, has raised more than $14.5M, to fund music education programming that
Yusef Jackson, Rev. Janette Wilson, Angelica Amador and Bill Cooper.
emphasizes holistic learning. Participating students have 100 percent high school graduation and college acceptance rate. 80 percent of the kids in the 140+ ensembles come from low- to moderate-income households, and 100
RJO honoree Caroline Dettman, Uniting Voices president Josephine Lee and RJO honoree Eric Ashworth.
percent participate at some level of subsidy. Mayor Brandon Johnson opened the evening by reflecting on Uniting Voices’ long history of impactful programming for Chicago youth. The night featured vibrant performances by Uniting Voices members, ages 6-18, including show-stopping renditions of Broadway classics, original
Uniting Voices Board Chair Ellen-Blair Chube and Larry Fitzgerald.
music, and songs from around the world. With culinary delights from Boka Catering Group, an open bar, access to a live auction with premium experiences, and an epic after-party, the evening was a night to remember, all in support of Chicago’s youth! “Red Jacket Optional 2023
Bob and Rose Fealy with singers.
was a testament to the power of music to unite us as one. In light of recent events, I am hopeful that we lifted spirits and fueled souls. We are deeply grateful to the community of supporters who have committed to Uniting Voices as a template for our present and the future: a world filled with beauty, optimism, empathy, possibility, hope, love and peace,” says
Uniting Voices Board Chair Ellen-Blair Chube and Uniting Voices singers.
Josephine Lee, president of Uniting Voices. Additionally, the event honored board members Caroline Dettman, chief marketing and creative officer for The Female Quotient, and Eric Ashworth, president of Agency Solutions and executive vice president of Product and Market Strategy at Quad, for their
Kyle and Kristin Mack, Bob and Patty Lane, Peter and Erin Lane.
leadership of the organization’s vibrant Fall 2022 rebrand to Uniting Voices. Mr. Ashworth and Ms. Dettman focused on this ethos as well as the more than 65-year commitment to exceptional performance-based learning that helps youth find their voice through music. The honorees were joined by co-chairs Michelle and Tom Cusick and Suzanne EL-Moursi and Bassel Ericsoussi in hosting the event alongside the Uniting Voices’ Board of Directors. Tom Kehoe of Kehoe Designs served as Design Chair. Supporters included lead sponsor Rose and Bob Fealy, The Hatherly Family, and David and Lesly Koo. (Photos by Elliot Mandel and Kyle Flubacker)
Designer Christina Siriano receives the Presidents' Circle Award from co-chairs Pam Capitanini and David Mordini.
designer, a raffle, and an interview with Christian Siriano where he discussed his life, career and fashion outlook, with Dionne Williams, Emerge fashion show creator/ founder Williams PR. The award, named after the past 17
Toni Canada, David Sanchez and Dusty Stemer.
presidents of the Costume Council, honors designers who are making an indelible mark in the fashion world. Event co-chairs Pamella Capitanini and David Mordini presented Siriano with the award on behalf of the Costume Council. Karen Peters, Costume Council First VP, Programs, welcomed the crowd, and shared the purpose for the afternoon’s fundraising efforts – to drive
Domanique Woods, Deanna Spoerl, Tyler Porter and Anika Allen.
curatorial activity, provide conservation needs and preserve and curate exhibitions for the Chicago History Museum and its 50,000-piece collection. David Mordini, president of the Costume Council, acknowledged the four past presidents who were in the audience before introducing Siriano and Williams. Siriano answered a far-ranging array of questions. He said his mom and his sister are his muses
Ambar Campos and Jess Crane.
and he loves to create for people who know who they want to be. It’s his “greatest gift.” Siriano is known as a pioneer for changing body positivity for all types, shapes, and genders. He spoke about some of his favorite clients
Co-chairs Pam Capitanini and David Mordini.
including Oprah, First Lady Michelle Obama and others. Over the years, he has dressed many prominent figures included First Lady Jill Biden, Angelina Jolie, Zendaya, Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga, to name a few. Christian Siriano is a distinguished CFDA designer, who has been a driving force in the world of fashion since his eponymous collection's launch in 2008. Trained under fashion icons Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen in London, Siriano's unique designs have graced the red carpets and wardrobes of today's most prominent figures. With nearly two decades in the industry, his work has been featured in prestigious museum exhibitions, including his groundbreaking solo retrospective at SCAD and record-breaking appearances at The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute's Met Gala. He currently captivates audiences as the host and mentor on Bravo's “Project Runway," with the brand celebrating its 15-year anniversary this Fall.
It was a dark and stormy night on Navy Pier, with a full moon and witches about…..naw, just kidding, but it was a HOWLING Howl-O-Ween at Harry Caray's Tavern for the
Host Grant DePorter.
3rd annual pet Halloween contest on Navy Pier. The Pier was filled with people and kids in costume but none were cuter than the doggos that made their way, with owners in tow, to this popular bar and restaurant. There were pups dressed as a piece of sushi, referee, lion, Cracker Jax, scary spiders, Wonder Woman, a piece of candy corn, a banana, Phantom of the Paw-pera, Paddington Bear, Pennywise, Barbie, and so many others. It was an honor to return for the 2nd year as emcee/judge.
Besides the cuteness overload, all the proceeds from the entry fee ($10) went directly to PAWS Chicago. The three categories were "Funniest", "Most Creative", and "Best Ensemble." Volunteers from PAWS, Judy Paice and Courtney Hopkins, were on hand to help move the party along. Harry Caray's owner Grant DePorter was also on hand to give out prizes that included a pair of tickets for a dog-friendly Seadog boat ride courtesy of City Cruises; a pair of tickets for Navy Pier's Ferris Wheel; and a $25 gift certificate to Harry Caray's.
In my Halloween podcast (Candid Candace – The Podcast), we chat about Haunted Chicago with Ursula Bielski, author of 12 books (and counting) on the supernatural and paranormal. My host/producer John St. Augustine surprises us with an actual recording of an experience that will have your hair standing on end. Listen here! And, if you're looking for the perfect Christmas gift for a baseball fan, look no further than John St. Augustine's new book, "Ironman," about the exciting life of legendary Chicago Cubs catcher Randy Hundley. With a foreward by former player Fergie Jenkins, this book is gaining wide acclaim from even diehard Bleacher Bums! And now, Randy is offering SIGNED BOOKS as Christmas gifts! To purchase a signed book, please message John St. Augustine directly to his FB page. Can pay by Zelle or Venmo. Venmo.To simply purchase the book unsigned here's the direct link to the Lulu book page.
In the most recent podcast, we had the privilege of chatting with the world’s most beloved meteorologist, Tom Skilling. He shares fascinating insights on climate change, what it’s like to ride through the eye of a hurricane, UFOs, and what made him cry on live television. I think of him as the "Mr. Rogers of Meteorologists." We will be sad when he retires on Feb. 28, 2024, but he also gives us hope with a peek into some thoughts for future projects. And, as always, I take you behind the velvet ropes at some of the best events that have happened and are happening around town, including Illuminate 900, PAWS Chicago Fur Ball, Service Club Gala, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas’ Christmas Party, Christkindlmarket, Priscilla Presley’s return, and the last Randolph Street Market of the season. So, sit back, relax, grab a glühwein, and enjoy the show! Listen here!
TheLynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation celebrated an “Evening of Collaboration for Breast Cancer Research” on at Theater on the Lake. The event raised almost
David Casper, Jane Casper, Diana Rauner, Bruce Rauner, Stephanie Stanton, and Eric Rauner.
$1.4 million with the help of over 800 guests. Highlights included the announcement of the formation of the Chicago Breast Cancer Research Consortium, a collaborative clinical trial initiative aimed at improving breast cancer mortality rates and disparities in outcomes in the Chicagoland area
Jill Alberts, Jim and Wendy Mills.
and beyond. The initiative will bring together University of Chicago, Northwestern and Rush. The evening featured a dynamic live auction with Taylor Swift tickets in Paris and a behind-the-scenes tour of the hit Chicago-centric show The Bear. Guests dined on donated bites from some of the city’s favorite restaurants including Piccolo Sogno, Gene & Georgetti's, Sushi San, The Oakville, Harry Harays, Avli, Adalina, Ron of Japan, Eli's and Big Fat Cookie. Whiskey and tequila tastings were provided by Heaven's Door and Mijenta. Congrats to ALL!
Crystal Belcher-Rector, Tina Koegel, Jeanette Aubry and Wendy Krimins.
Fashion and philanthropy reigned at the Children’s Service Board’s 67th annual Gold Coast Fashion Show. Cutting-edge fashions from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue were showcased in a live runway show and cocktail reception. Event proceeds supported the board’s two-year, $2 million commitment to the Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Lurie
Children's Service Board VP Danielle Hoeg with co-chairs Renee Stock and Cathryn Schmaltz with board president Emily Flahertyand.
Children’s. Paired with the luncheon and runway show that took place earlier in the week, the 67th Gold Coast Fashion Show raised over $1.28 million. Nearly 500 guests
Lurie's Patient Champion Penelope with Lurie Children's staffer Ilana Gutman.
attended the evening event, which took place at The Geraghty and kicked off with a cocktail reception featuring food stations from some of Chicago’s most popular restaurants, including Le Colonial, Lyra and Adalina. The night’s excitement culminated with a paddle raise and live auction, followed by dessert bites. During the program, Lurie Children’s patient Penelope talked about how acute anxiety has impacted her life since she was a toddler. The courageous 11-year-old confidently took the stage and met her therapist Dr. Jaclyn Hoffmeister. They spoke about how the mental health treatment she received through Lurie Children’s changed her life. The event was hosted by Children’s Service Board President Emily Flaherty with co-chairs Cathryn Schmaltz and Renee Stock. The team, with full support of its 60-person Children Service Board, is driven to help Lurie Children’s address the increasing demand for pediatric mental health care services, with an emphasis on early detection and treatment. (Photos by Sean Su / Purple Photo Group)
I hope you can join us for the Felix Magazine Charity Dinner Series on Monday, Dec. 11 featuring the gourmet mastery of Chef Paul Virant and luxe Diamond Ossetra from Meredith Marks Caviar. Indulge in a four-course meal, beats by DJ Madrid Perry and enjoy a guest appearance by Meredith Marks (Bravo's Real Housewives of Salt Lake City)
The event will take place Joy District from 6-8. Private dinner, $135. Open to public from 8-10. Post-dinner party, $60. All proceeds benefit the The Aparecio Foundation which provides funding, mentoring, academic assistance, and scholarship programs for high-potential low-income girls in public high schools. Details here!
Special congrats to La Scarola restaurant for snagging great comedians Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan, who chose this hotspot for their go-to dinner following their show at the United Center on November 9. Joey and Armando attract celebs like magnets! (La Scarola, 721 W, Grand Ave., Chicago, 312-243-1740, lascarola.com.) Celebrating 25 glorious years!
has the holiday spirit and she wants YOU to have some too, so join her on Friday, Dec. 1 at her office, 118 N. Clark Street from 5- 6:30 p.m. There will be sing-a-longs, sweet treats, decorated trees from around the world, and so much more! She is the hardest working pol in the city and she does so much good, from finding tax refunds for unsuspecting property owners to making sure her brochures are printed in every language, she is a force in Chicago! To add to the joy of the holiday season, don't miss out on her 2024 MARIA calendar! To rsvp for the Christmas party, call 312.603.6931 or email CCTO@cookcountytreasurer.com and I'll see you there!
The Service Club of Chicago will host its annual Holiday Luncheon Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the stunning Union League Club of Chicago!Congrats in advance to co-chairs Lezley Hodes, Karen Peters, and Debi Catenacci! Themed, "Santa Baby," you know this event in Lincoln Hall will be another sellout! A variety of vendors will be on hand to fulfill your holiday wish list as well as surprise entertainment! There will be an exciting silent auction and raffle prizes too, including Neiman Marcus – Christian Louboutin shoes (gift certificate); Joffrey Ballet – Midsummer Night’s Dream tickets (2); Park Hyatt Hotel – 1 Night Stay; Contessa Bottega – Camilla Scarf; Kendra Scott necklace. 1 for $50 | 3 for $100 | 10 for $200. You definitely won't want to miss this! For tickets, more info, click here.
The Joffrey Ballet's critically acclaimed reimagined classic, The Nutcracker by two-time Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon,returns to the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, in 25 performances, December 2 – 27. Set in Chicago's World's Fair in 1893, Wheeldon's The Nutcracker highlights the rich cultural heritage of Chicago and the wonder of the season. This is one of my favorite productions by The Joffrey as it truly captures the spirit of the season and the best part, it's set in our own home town. A truly beautiful show in every respect. A must-see. (For tickets and more details, please click here!)
The Joffrey Ballet's "The Nutcracker," will return to the Lyric Opera House Dec. 2. | Photo by Cheryl Mann for The Joffrey Ballet
One of my favorite writers, Michael Sneed at the Sun-Times, writes a gratitude column every year around Thanksgiving. It's touched me so much that I found myself clipping and
A Thanksgiving past- missing so many friends and family.
saving her articles. In past years, with some prodding from Oprah (and her love of gratitude journals), I decided to tackle some gratitude musings of my own. It's really a lesson in self-reflection and a look back at all the things that has made us who we are. It's also an acknowledgement of the goodness in your life. Scientists have found that grateful people manage stress better and live healthier lives. Maybe after you read my column here, you will be inspired to write one of your own. This Thanksgiving, more than in years past, seems like a good time to start. I hope you’re surrounded by family and friends who seem like family.
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. And, of course, a wonderful holiday message from Coca-Cola!
Service Club "Day on the Terrace" co-chairs Jean Antoniou (SC pres), Tracey DiBuono (show producer) and Sharyl Mackey.
The Service Club of Chicago, one of our city’s oldest charitable organizations, hosted its annual “Day on the Terrace” fashion show and luncheon at the Peninsula Chicago on August 7. This year's theme featured a
Tina Gravel makes her runway debut wearing Lauren Lein.
butterfly, symbolizing 133 years of change. The event, that welcomed over 300 guests along with returning veteran co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Sharyl Mackey, offered a ‘first look’ at fall fashion. Participating stores this year included: alice + Olivia, Anne Fontaine, Contessa
Ryan Baker and Micah Materre.
Bottega, Elda de la Rosa Couture, Lauren Lein Ltd., MaxMara, Mira Couture, Peter Millar, St. John Boutique, SYLWIA, and York Furriers. A dazzling finale presentation featured models wearing designs from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, escorted by dashing members of the
Kathy Piccone, Nikki Friar and designer Sylwia.
U.S Marines Corps. The crowd stood and applauded in a patriotic salute when they mounted the stage as the “Marines Hymn” played them on. The runway show was produced by ZZAZZ Productions with Tracey Tarantino DiBuono. DJ Akib supplied the background music for both the fashion show and after-party. Media personalities included Micah Materre, D.C. Crenshaw (with wife Alayna), Ryan Baker (with wife Jessa), Lou Canellis, Leah Chavie, Michael
Adiat Baker and Iya Bakare (the "B Sisters")
Kutza, Laura Schwartz, and Whitney Reynolds. Ashlea Hearn, Chicago Star Associate Editor, made her debut on
Tina Weller at after-party.
the runway as well, wearing St. John. Luncheon guests left with loaded goodie bags that included makeup and colognes donated by return supporter Claudio Riaz, a gift certificate for services from the Paul Rehder Salon, Divine Biscotti (donated by Debi Catenacci), and so much more! The after-party included light bites, cocktails, and music
Myra Reilly with family and friends.
by DJ Akib on the Shanghai Terrace. Event sponsors included Diamond Sponsors: 2X2 Health Private Nursing, Sherry Abrahams, Paula Borg and Kristine Kinder, Lauren Brynjelsen and Darby Hills, Cheryl Coleman and Susan Gohl, Marilyn
Dawn Hasbrouck (Fox-32 anchor) with Marine escort in DOT finale.
Hayden, Sharyl Mackey and Patty Marx, and Sherrill Bodine. Gold Sponsors: Melissa Babcock, Kathy Cook and Leslie Logsdon; Mary Lasky and Kate Prange; and Lodge Management Group (Lyn McKeaney). Silver
Jennifer Clarke and Andrea Antoniou.
Sponsors: Jean and Andy Antoniou; Tracey DiBuono; Gene & Georgetti, Weller Dental and Nina Mariano. The Service Club of Chicago’s mission is to assist, improve and expand on nonprofit organizations in the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients are in social service, cultural, educational, and civic fields. (Check the website for more Service Club events and info here. Photos by John Reilly Photography and moi)
Maria Pinto and friends at opening of her new boutique.
Maria Pinto, the esteemed Chicago-based fashion designer who has dressed luminaries like Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and countless other women of note over nearly three decades, has announced the move of her West Loop boutique to a new, larger (3,000-sq-ft) retail
Maria Pinto at 710 N. Wabash.
space in Chicago’s Gold Coast at 710 N. Wabash Ave. The move also ushers a meaningful name change of her label, M2057 by Maria Pinto, to the simple and iconic Maria Pinto. Her work first skyrocketed with her luxury collection in the early 1990’s, which was found in esteemed boutiques like Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys, Ultimo and Saks. Even Mick Jagger became a fan, wearing one of her scarves during a performance at Soldier Field. In the
D.C. Crenshaw and friend.
Michel Desjardins, Emmanuel Nony and friend.
early 2000’s, she stepped further into the international limelight, as First Lady Obama and Oprah sought and confidently wore her custom pieces. She has since earned countless accolades and honors over the course of her career. In 2013, and with a desire to create accessible, effortless fashion that empowers women to feel chic and
Justine Fedak (R) and friends.
confident, Maria launched M2057 by Maria Pinto and began selling timeless, ready-to-wear collections at her West Loop Chicago boutique, as well as online, where they remain available today. Her new boutique features carefully chosen fixtures and furnishings: An ethereal
David Zivan (center), D.C. Crenshaw and friend.
Mooon rug by Moooi Carpets; sleek Hahns Boodt Mannequins; an otherworldly Melt Chandelier by Tom Dixon; a modern Alwa One Table in Smokey Grey and Black by Sebastian Herkner; easy
Sanjay Sharma and Maria Pinto.
Custom Color Wendelbo Lobby Chairs; architecturally significant chairs by Toogood Spade and more. Immersive, larger-than-life photography of the designer’s current and archival collections adorns the walls, along with art pieces created by Ms. Pinto herself—whose passion for art led her to study both fine art and fashion at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). (Photos by Barry Brecheisen)
With more than 100 unique performances each summer between June and September, Ravinia Festival exerts an irresistible
Heather Headley performs at Ravinia Festival Gala.
allure for lovers of live music. For its latest Ravinia Festival Gala, that joy was elevated ten-fold by Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Heather Headley. Accompanied by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Chief Conductor Marin Alsop, her performance was
Rick and Gala Co-Chair Andrea Bechtel; Troy and Ravinia Festival Women's Board Chair Michele Ihlanfeldt; Gala Co-Chair Kelly and Jim Epstein.
nothing short of breathtaking. Headley is best known for originating the role of Nala in the smash hit Broadway musical, Lion King, and the title role of Aida for which she received the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Her Grammy win came for her 2010 gospel album, Audience of One. She is
BMO Commercial Bank Vice Chair Eric Smith and Ravinia Festival President and CEO Jeff Haydon.
also an Olivier Award Nominee for her role in The Bodyguard on London’s West End. The afternoon's festivities commenced on the North Lawn with a cocktail reception (sponsored by BMO) set amidst Ravinia Festival’s renowned sculpture garden. As guests
Ellie Forman (L) and friend.
mingled among masterpieces by Fernando Botero and Richard Hunt, the delightful melodies of the Ravinia Jazz Scholars & Mentors ensemble created a wonderful ambiance. Inside the Pavilion, over 600 guests and other music lovers alike gathered to enjoy the concert,
Elise and Ravinia Festival Board of Trustees Chairman Christopher J. Klein.
sponsored by The Dancing Skies Foundation. On the lawn, adorned with picnic tables and champagne, even more attendees relished the perfect weather and the performance.
Ramsey Prince (of Maison du Prince), event designer with friend.
Adding to the magic were the talented musicians from the Ravinia Lawndale Music School and the Voices of Trinity Mass Choir, who accompanied her performance. Headley's program was full of her favorite Broadway and other hit songs by Elton John, Stephen Schwartz, Harold Arlen, Tim Minchin, Kurt Weill, and others. She surprised the audience with the introduction of tenor Rodrick Dixon, who joined her
Pre-performance cocktail reception on the lawn.
for a spirited and inspiring finale. Within a beautifully adorned tent on the Ravinia grounds, the crowd enjoyed a dinner sponsored by Allstate and created
Garden-inspired decor by Maison du Prince.
by Jewell Events Catering. Décor by Maison Du Prince featured an elegant garden party theme. The "ceiling" twinkled with thousands of enchanting white lights while each table featured unique décor, with some guests dining under quaint iron cupolas placed above elaborate floral displays, while others enjoyed the evening's splendor surrounded by crystal candelabra and flickering candlelight. The "dinner in a garden" theme was completed with an array of mismatched crystal glasses and colorful, floral-patterned tablecloths. Hosted by the Women’s Board and co-chaired by Andrea Bechtel and Kelly Epstein, this 57th gala concert raised over $800,000 and is the only performance fundraiser benefiting Ravinia and its Reach Teach Play educational programs which engage more than 75,000 students and community members in interactive, free musical opportunities throughout Cook and Lake Counties. (Photos by Patrick Gipson, complete Ravinia Festival summer schedule here.
The Curio Experience in partnership with Bonhomme Hospitality hosted its second Fashion Social Hour at Kashmir, on the edge of the West Loop, where guests
Chic and sexy at Kashmir!
were treated to cocktails, a live performance, and a great venue for mixing and mingling. The mission of the group is to bring together the Chicago fashion community for networking and possible collaborations. At these monthly meetups, fashion designers, stylists, photographers, models, retailers, content creators and other creatives that need to work
Ian Gerard (co-founder of The Curio, 2nd from L), Meiling Jin, Rey Rodriguez, and friend.
together to be successful, are able to connect with one another in stylish locations around Chicago. The crowd of 250 included a bevy of beautiful models and content creators including Meiling Jin, Alisha Hoath, Edwin Medina, Jessica Milagros and Amy Anderson, designers including Jamie Hayes of Production Mode, Tania Mackey of NICZKA, AV Grannan, Jen Mason of Urban Sewing Society, and Viviana Langhoff, America Next Top Winner Jaslene Gonzalez, FGI Chicago heads Bhavana Jain and Hila Geller, Marquan Jones and leadership team of Chicago Fashion Coalition, Anna Hovet Dias of Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christine Griffith of Blk + Brwn Market, Ambar Campos of AIBI, Arabel Alva Rosales of Runway LatinX, Model Agency leads Jesse Abudayyeh (Select) and David Sanchez (10 MGMT), and Dani Alonso and his team from Bonhomme Hospitality. And of course lots of stylists, fashion photographers, retailers, and other industry members. I think this is such a great idea! Congrats to all, including Ian Gerard (The Curio co-founder) for this wonderful concept!
PAWS Chicago hosted its 20th annual Beach Party at Offshore at Navy Pier recently. Over 400 animal-loving humans with 100 four-legged companions converged on this gorgeous venue, reported to be the world’s largest
Melissa and Michael Canning.
rooftop bar, to raise funds for this beloved nonprofit. Co-chaired by Vasoula Rehkson and Anna Simon, the event netted over $400,000. It was a gorgeous night that offered spectacular views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. Outstanding silent auction
Alison Fogarty, Sean Fogarty, Teresa Bernue, Bill Jacobs.
prizes included tickets for four to see soccer legend Lionel Messi in his first game at Soldier Field; a package of rare bourbons curated by Binny’s Beverage Depot; and tickets to performances by John Legend and Carrie Underwood. Returning emcees,
Co-emcee Jake Hamilton with his rescue dog Daenerys.
Lisa Dent (of WGN radio) and Jake Hamilton (of Fox-32) helped PAWS co-founder Paula Fasseas present an adoptable dogs showcase. Two of the cuties found their forever homes that night. Paula shared, “We’re all here
Kristina and Emilia Augustyniak.
because we love animals. Most of these dogs come from Animal Care and Control. For years we kept getting better and better with our spay/neuter program and the euthanasia rate has just plummeted over the years. However, over this year and last year, the rate is starting to go up, which is very sad and alarming. This is happening because, since COVID, there has
Renata and Bob Block with their rescue dog.
been just so much disarray in people’s lives. Many people are having to give up their pets and our Animal Care and Control is inundated every day. We are working very hard to grow our foster programs and to ramp up our adoption programs. We really need to continue doing more and more spay/neuter. Most clinics closed, it’s hard to get vet
Howard Tullman and Chuck Jordan.
appointments, a lot of the small rescues have closed too. It’s very, very sad. So, we’re focusing our energy on Animal Care and Control. We’re doing less transport from Oklahoma and all those wonderful places
that have relied on us, but we must focus on Chicago. It’s number one. The economy and inflation have really had an impact on the lives of these sweet, voiceless animals.” During the event, guests enjoyed illustrations by artist KristineSteiner, a dinner buffet and dancing. Canine counterparts enjoyed their own dinner buffets from Merrick Pet Care and a doggie spa. Brook Jay won an exciting package to a private benefit with actor Will Ferrell and his celebrity friends. Congrats to PAWS, that to date, has facilitated over 90,000 adoptions!!!
Thanks to the Navy Seal Foundation for the opportunity to interview Captain Chris Cassidy, a Navy Seal and NASA astronaut. He’s the first Seal/Astronaut after Captain Will Shepherd, who was part of the first
Captain Chris Cassidy.
crew on the International Space Station. Cassidy was honored with two Bronze Stars and went into space three times, also serving on the Space Station. During a lighthearted moment, he became the first astronaut to take a selfie in space. The photo went viral in 2017. Today, he is a spokesperson and advocate for many nonprofits, including the Navy Seal Foundation. Below is an excerpt from our Q&A: What's was one of your most awe-inspiring moments in space? I think opening the hatch on my first spacewalk and seeing Earth below, you know,
Captain Cassidy was a big hit with everyone at the event.
just outside, holding on with one hand, seeing Earth go by at five miles a second. And, yeah, that was what probably took my breath away; What was your scariest moment? “We had a spacewalk where my buddy and I were out there, and his spacesuit malfunctioned and there was water leaking inside his helmet and we had to hurry up and get back in. That was probably the scariest moment.”; With your unique perspective of the cosmos, do you think there's life on other planets? “I think that the universe is so giant, somewhere out there, there's life. We just don't know. I don't believe it's in our solar system, but in my opinion, it’s naive to think that it couldn't exist anywhere in the universe.”; What do you think about the civilians in space program and what advice would you give to those
Beautiful setting, beautiful day to hear from Captain Cassidy.
planning to go? “So, it's more complicated than just
Captain Cassidy's viral space selfie.
buying a ticket and sitting in row 15, seat C. You know there's risk to it, but I think it's the success of the commercial companies right now that are driving that risk down somewhat. But there's always a possibility that some piece of equipment won't work the way it's supposed to on that given day and so, understanding those risks, understanding what you're getting into, and why we
A patriotic welcome on the North Shore.
train so intently, it’s not for the good day when everything goes by the plan, but it's for when things start breaking that you can save yourself, save the equipment, keep the thing alive, and your crew mates alive. So just have an appreciation for that and take the training seriously, because it's more than just an enjoyable ride. There's a lot to it.”; How did your training as a Navy SEAL help you as an astronaut? “The military does an amazing job, SEAL teams specifically, of preparing somebody to, in simple terms, walk, chew gum, talk on the radio, and make decisions all at the same time. You're dealing with a dynamic environment. Stuff in front of you is changing. You've got to talk on the radio, communicate that to somebody else, so that you have coordinated effort in that mission. All of that translates exactly to being an effective astronaut. So, I definitely
We hope to see you at the Navy Seal Foundation's "Evening of Tribute" on Sept. 13.
had some advantage with that training under my belt when I got there, but the NASA training is really good, and everybody gets up to that speed eventually.” The afternoon soiree included a Q&A with about 25 guests at the home of Muneer Satter and Kristen Hertel Satter. Invitees enjoyed mingling with Cassidy, taking photos, and a lavish lunch buffet before Cassidy answered further questions and shared his history in a delightful pavilion on the grounds that was situated in front of an infinity pool with a spectacular lake view in the background. (Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 13, when the Navy Seal Foundation hosts its 12th signature fundraiser, “Midwest Evening of Tribute,” at Navy Pier’s AON Grand Ballroom. All details here.) ______________________________________________________________________
Frank Family Vineyards representative Julie Larsen.
The 26th Annual Union League Boys & Girls Clubshosted its annual Wine Dinner fundraiser at the Union League Club of Chicago. The event, co-chaired by Stacy Fleming and David Torres, featured vintage wine tastings and pairings hosted by Calistoga, California
Wine Dinner Co-Chairs David Torres and Stacy Fleming.
winery Frank Family Vineyards and a multi-course meal. Julie Larsen from Frank Family Vineyards, was the keynote speaker. For 104 years, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs have been serving youth in neighborhoods with the highest hardship
David Torres, Julie Larsen, Stacy Fleming, Mary Ann Mahon Huels, Alexandra Nicholson, Thomas E. Payne.
index in Chicago; providing quality programming centered on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. Today, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs serve over 15,000 youth
ULBGC President & CEO Mary Ann Mahon Huels
members at 21 well-equipped and professionally staffed inner-city Clubs, that bring effective after-school programming to youth in communities including Humboldt Park, Pilsen, West Town, Bucktown, South Lawndale and Englewood as well as to youth in the Juvenile Detention Center and at an overnight camp in Kenosha County Wisconsin. Note: The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is a distinct non-profit separate from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, although both are charters of the national Boys & Girls Clubs organization. For more information, please click here.
Mis' Lois Gates and Anne Mills with Elite Presenting Sponsors The Grateful Family of Tricia McGee.
Misericordia Heart of Mercy hosted its 26thArtist in All event at the Art Institute’s Modern Wing July 19. Over 1000 supporters came out in force to bid on 240+ pieces of artwork created by talented Misericordia resident artists
David and Susan Axelrod with daughter Lauren.
with the assistance of dedicated staff and volunteers. Even the invite’s artwork graphics were created by residents in the Art Program where participants use paint and other media to experience the joy that self-expression brings. It was a great night for this amazing nonprofit that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Congrats to Sister Rosemary, Lois Gates and their amazing team. Love this organization so much. (For more info, click here!)
"The Who's Tommy," the most successful production in Goodman Theatre history!
Goodman Theatre’s Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director/CEO Roche Schulfer announced that the Goodman’s must-see musical The Who’s Tommy smashed box office records, officially becoming the highest-grossing production in the 98-year history of Chicago’s largest not-for-profit theater company. Tony Award-winning original creators Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff joined the company on stage for a bow as the “amazing journey” concluded following a matinee in Chicago on Sunday, Aug 6. The unanimously acclaimed, twice-extended production “went clean” in the 856-seat Albert Theatre selling a record number of single tickets and selling out 36 performances. Audiences attending hailed from all 50 United States, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as 21 other countries as far away as New Zealand, with many patrons attending multiple performances.
The Who's Tommy's original creators Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff, join the company on closing night to celebrate the Goodman Theatre's most successful production in history. (Photo by Liz Lauren)
Chance the Rapper at the WNDR Museum. (Photo by Meiling Jin)
Celebrated global hip-hop artist Chance the Rapper hosted the launch of The Chance Store, a special retail pop-up at WNDR Museum Chicago (1130 W. Monroe), in celebration of his sold-out Acid Rap Ten
Mr. & Mrs.- Jobba Maxey and Val Warner.
Year Anniversary Show at the United Center with a VIP Party on Aug. 16, at the Museum. The place was packed outside and inside with Chance fans who, with the proper wristband, could make their way upstairs to a VIP party. There, a specialty drink was being served along with Harold's (fried) Chicken wings, fries
Ryan Chiaverini and friend Zack.
and ice cream. The room was split into two sides….one was the VVIP party where Chance hung out. He played Bucket Ball with friends, enjoyed a great DJ and mingled. Eventually, he made his way to the VIP section where he smiled for selfies and danced the night away with fans. Guests could also shop in the brand new The Chance Store (that only ran through 8/20) and featured a
limited supply of exclusive merchandise, apparel and
Amy Maniscalho, Chance and Meiling Jin.
accessories including the 10th anniversary edition of the Acid Rap album on vinyl and CD, a collaboration can with Lyrical Lemonade and Chance’s iconic “3” hats in Acid Rap colorways. Besides his hometown of Chicago, Chance brought his Anniversary Show to New York’s
Nick Harkin and Jerry Nunn.
Barclays Center. On Sept. 21, it will go to the Los Angeles’ Kia Forum. Limited tickets remain at chanceraps.com. To give fans a glimpse into the upcoming tour, Chance dropped the “Acid Rap Tour Rehearsal: That’s Love” video. Soundtracked to Acid Rap single “That’s Love,” the video features nostalgic footage of Chance performing back in the day interwoven with Acid Rap 10 Year Anniversary tour rehearsal scenes. Watch the video here.
Chance and friends at WNDR Museum (photo by Meiling Jin).
Co-chairs Sophie Goodwillie and Maribeth McElveen, Founders' Board President Maureen Seaman, Dinner on the Bluff Co-chairs Alex Murphy and Annie Barlow.
The Founders' Board of Lurie Children’s hosted its 63rd Annual Dinner on the Bluff and Pro-Am Golf Championship, presented by Wintrust, on June 25 and June 26,
Devin and Jacinta Staples.
chaired by Sophie Goodwillie and Maribeth McElveen. Over 500 guests gathered at Shoreacres in Lake Bluff to enjoy cocktails, such as “The Birdie” provided by Blue Ash Farm, and dinner overlooking Lake Michigan. The evening highlighted Mental Health Access FORE Every Child and featured patient speaker Leo sharing his personal story about the
Maureen Seaman, Founders' Board President.
positive impact of access to mental health care, alongside his doctor, Dr. John Parkhurst. The evening was chaired Annie Barlow and Alex Murphy and included a dynamic group of supporters. The following day, the Pro Am Golf Championship brought together 275 golfers and pros for a day of competitive play and crowned the 63rd Annual Pro Am’s newest winners of the June Seaman Trophy: Kevin Stineman, Dan Barlow, Dan Waters and Steve Moffat – joined by pro Gideon Traub. Together the events raised over $1.8M in support of the Founders’ Board $5.5M commitment to Lurie Children’s Hospital and the Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities. (Robin Subar Photography)
Conor Gee, being installed as the youngest District Governor for Rotary International.
So much love and congrats to friend Conor Gee! He just became the youngest District Governor for Rotary International in the Chicagoland area! His installation was held aboard a boat cruise at Navy Pier. He also threw out the first pitch at the White Sox game recently! He has a long history of doing good in the community and this is yet another step in the right direction. Congrats dear Conor!
And, on another wonderful note of success, the beloved
Congrats Tanner Branson!
Tanner Branson has just been elevated to Head of Sale of the Luxury Handbag & Couture Department at Hindman. In his new role, he will oversee the department’s four-yearly auctions, liaise with clients nationwide in evaluating their couture, and assist with appraisals, He will support
Leah Chavie, skincare expert and a "Dynamic Woman."
Hindman Chicago’s headquarters and regional offices around the country. Congrats dear Tanner!
Leah Chavie, fabulous aesthetician and owner of Leah Chavie Skincare, has been included in this year’s CS Magazine’s “Dynamic Women” feature. Her skills and winning personality have made her a much loved figure in Chicago. Her new Barbie Facials are something you shouldn’t miss either! (leahchavie.com)
As many of you know, Chuck and I lost our two rescue Chihuahuas a few years ago. Mickey and Rooney were the lights of our lives, and we miss them still. After our loss, I
Penny "The Pencil Neck" Jordan.
was sure we would get another pupper in time. I just didn’t realize it would take so long or the intricacies that would be involved. After being pup-less for so long, I guess we became a little bit spoiled. No more worrying if we were out too long or if the water bowls weren’t
Penny has found her forever home.
filled or if the pee pads needed changing. No walks in the park (which now takes courage in the Gold Coast) nor concerns about shots and nail trims either. BUT, this also meant no bundles of energy racing around the house making you smile. No lap cuddles or fetches or loving eyes staring back at you 24 hours of the day. In other words, we were lonely. All the cons did not compare to the multitude of pros so we began a search. Luckily, Susanna Wickham (PAWS Chicago CEO) came to the rescue, introducing us to little Amaya, now “Penny the Pencil Neck.” (To read the full story, click here).
Terrace 16- spectacular views from Trump Hotel Chicago.
With Labor Day on the horizon, have you planned your activities? If not, consider summer’s farewell on the spectacular rooftop patio at Terrace 16 on Sunday, Sept.
Terrace 16 patio- perfect for Labor Day and any day.
3 (from noon- 7pm) with grilling, cocktails and fireworks! This ultimate grilling experience will feature an interactive chef's experience, outdoor grill station, extensive craft cocktail program, and more! Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks display from their iconic patio. Indulge in the Grilling Experience at just $50 per person, featuring a delectable array of dishes including a BBQ Brisket Sandwich, Cheddar Cheeseburger, Footlong Hotdog, Garden Pasta Salad, Balsamic Marinated Portobello Mushroom, and Grilled Asparagus. With the expertise of Executive Sous Chef Derek Feldmeier, your downtown Chicago dining experience at Trump Hotel Chicago will be as unforgettable as the views! Book here!
Metropolitan Family Services DuPage celebrated its 22nd annual DuPage Gala to highlight the organization’s holistic approach to serving families and individuals. The event took place in Woodridge at Bobak’s Signature Events, with sports anchor Dionne Miller serving as emcee. The evening included impact speeches from families who have benefited from MFS’s Supporting Housing Initiative for Families in Transition program and also recognized its Roger K. Johnson Leadership Awardees — Mary Ann and Paul Travers, Mike Skarr and Paul Pyrcik – for their commitment to Metropolitan and Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan DuPage. The gala was co-chaired by Metropolitan DuPage Board Members Dan McGowan and Emily Shupe. MFS is a nonprofit that provides support and family services to strengthen communities.
I hope you enjoy this latest episode of “Candid Candace – The Podcast!” I interview award-winning Chef Art Smith. His cooking skills and down-to-earth personality have connected him with Lady Gaga, the Dalai Lama and five presidents, to name a few. And, as impressive as his kitchen skills are, his life as a humanitarian is equally inspiring. He shares what’s next on his to-do list, what makes his fried chicken so damn special, and some valuable advice Johnny Carson’s pianist told him. My producer/co-host John St. Augustine and I also chat about a VERY big book launch, Chance the Rapper’s private party, some of my favorite events and so much more! So, grab a piece of Hummingbird Cake, find an easy chair, and enjoy the show! (LISTEN HERE) AND, I hope you will join us on Wednesday, Aug. 30 for Art's "Rainbow at Reunion" party! Details here!
I hope you're enjoying my "Ask Candid Candace" advice column in Chicago Star! I love fielding all your interesting questions and I hope you like my answers. (See latest edition here) I try to add a little humor along with some common sense and I hope it's working! Special thanks to Randolph Street Market for sponsoring this column too! Don't miss Sally's next big markets coming Sept. 23/24 and the Holiday Market Nov. 18/19. (All RSM details here)
Julie Hightower (Daisie Foundation) and Kathleen Sarpy.
Pretty Powerful 5.0, an event co-founded by Kathleen Sarpy (founder and CEO of Agency H5, a boutique integrated marketing and PR firm) and moi, attracted nearly 100 powerful ladies who are responsible for lifting up our communities through their philanthropic work. Collectively, the women at the Tribune Tower Residences party have raised millions of dollars for Chicago’s nonprofit community. The Residences were the perfect venue for our 5th annual event. Following a toast from Kathleen, invitees enjoyed mingling on the magnificent Crown Terrace, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and taking guided tours of the spectacular residences and
Tribune Tower Residences- Spectacular!
amenities (thanks to the Tribune Tower Residences sales team- Jeanne Martini, Karen Randich Stone, Natalie LaFontaine and Shannon Gibson-Giampa.) Desirée Rogers gifted the attendees with fabulous lipsticks from her successful Fashion Fair cosmetic line sold at Sephora. It was a wonderful night of networking and conversation in a beautiful setting. This event is a thank-you to the fabulous and kind-hearted women who passionately work to promote the work of so many important and impact-driven nonprofits and philanthropic events each year – there certainly are so many worthy causes to highlight that are crucial to supporting the people of Chicago and beyond. A toast to all and thanks to those who participated and, until next year, please continue your wonderful work and we will see you at Pretty Powerful 6.0!
I hope this edition is better late than never! There's so much I want to share with you and I never want to miss anything of importance so sometimes it takes a while to collect all the fun news. I hope I've covered things here that make you smile. As always, please send any events/news my way! Until then, keep the energy positive and your calendars ready. Cheers to unforgettable moments ahead and thanks for sticking with me! 🙂
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
P.S. If this doesn't make you smile, nothing will……
Plus: Brookfield Zoo's "Whirl"; Hard Rock Casino's grand opening party; Tina's FAB Fumee Claire candles; A tribute to Bernie; Blooms on the Mag Mile; Deborah's "Journey to Joshua"; What's happening in Chicago NOW?; "Wonders of the Park" auction for Lincoln Park; Banksy art fans on pins and needles; Schulman Felix Mag; AVLI on the Park; Chicago Pride Fest; Pendry Chicago's, Chicago Star releases June issue!; elegant, grand opening; Birthday joy at La Scarola; Northalsted Market Days; Randolph Street Market updates; Imerman Angels' Angels Spirit Week; Maria Pappas, why we need her; Sweet video, and SOOO much more!
Neiman Marcus Michigan Ave. GM Wendy Krimins, Joffrey pres/CEO Greg Cameron and Joffrey WB member Noren Ungaretti.
Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, Northbrook and Oakbrook joined in partnership to support The Joffrey Ballet for their FIRST in-person event following the Covid outbreak, "Fashion for a Passion." The event combined an in-person luncheon with a video-taped fashion show
Beautiful decor for this first in-person event!
featuring spring trends. Guests were welcomed by the GMs at each store, Wendy Krimins (Michigan Ave.), Linda Piepho (Northbrook) and Michelle Distasio-Flinn (Oakbrook). Around 70 guests were in attendance at all three
locations with over 30 more zooming in for viewing. Tina Koegel, Brand Experience manager at the Neiman Marcus Chicago location, said, "I’m proud of our longstanding support [a 12 year partnership] of the Joffrey Ballet and our wonderful relationship with their incredibly
Noren Ungaretti holding a beautiful gift box courtesy of Neiman Marcus.
successful Women’s Board. The three Chicago Metro stores donated 10% of all eligible sales over the course of 5 days from April 15th through the 19th." I was thrilled to attend this first in-person event for these two Chicago icons and I can tell you, it was so
With Neiman's Tina Koegel.
refreshing to see people in real time as opposed to yet another zoom call. Everyone was dressed in their finest and the table decor took my breath away. All the colors of spring with bright yellow tablescapes, florals of yellow roses and snapdragons and exquisitely boxed lunches (pink and white striped boxes tied with yellow ribbons). Lunch, catered from Food for Thought, consisted of roasted chicken salad tea sandwiches, a spring greens salad and strawberry panna cotta with berries for dessert. Each guest was also treated to a custom-made gift box that included a darling
Melissa Babcock and Leslie Logsdon.
toe-shoe shaped cookie, a notebook and product samplings. The virtual fashion
Even a toe shoe-shaped cookie in the goodie bag!
show was presented by contemporary buyer Lori Caplin from the company's Northpark Mall in Dallas. Four fabulous models showcased 20 looks ranging from casual to daytime and concluded with glamorous evening looks. Some highlights of the show included a stunning Oscar de la Renta red satin dress and a Dries van Noten metallic foil jacket. One of the things I loved most was how so many of the looks were paired with tennis shoes, a
Even the Joffrey WB members are fans of Chicago Star! Lol! (Wink! Wink!)
nod to our pandemic past, no doubt! Following the show, Greg Cameron, Joffrey president/CEO, addressed the crowd. He commented on the 12 year-long partnership between The Joffrey Ballet, its Women's Board and Neiman
Overview of the beautiful space at Neiman Marcus Michigan Ave.
Marcus and talked about the Joffrey's Crisis Stabilization Fund, created to ensure the Company's long term health with support going directly to support the Company artists, students and education programs during the pandemic. The group applauded when they heard that they reached $11 million dollars, towards their goal of $12 million. Greg also expressed excitement over returning to the Lyric stage in October for live performances. In attendance at the Michigan Avenue location were Joffrey Women’s Board President Sandi
Joffrey's Brian Smith and Chris Jabin with WB president Sandi Hartstein.
Hartstein, Cameron, Farissa Knox (WB 2nd Vice President), Melissa Babcock, Dana Treister, Casey Carey, Geeta Nagpal, Nancy Berman, Valerie Gerber, Bonnie Fong, Kelly Rosen LaGrange, Ellie Forman, Karen Zupko, Jennifer Fabian, Johanna Ferguson and Liz Sharp and others. The Michigan Avenue luncheon was hosted by Noren Ungaretti, immediate past WB President. The Oakbrook luncheon was hosted by Marcie Wright. In attendance at the Oakbrook location was Julia Doherty, Director of Principal Gifts at the Joffrey. The Northbrook event was hosted by Camille Rudy, Heather Martin, Joan Malliband and Jenelle Chalmers. (Shared first in Chicago Star's "City Seen" debut column!)
WHY CHICAGO NEEDS MARIA PAPPAS: Maria Pappas is our Cook County Treasurer, has been since 1998. But oh, she is so much more. She has been a cheerleader for Chicago for as far back as I can remember and is a
Maria with Mayor Lightfoot, Lightfoot's mother and wife First Lady Amy Eshleman.
force in every community throughout the city. You can see her at a ceremony commemorating the Polish plane crash in Russia 11 years ago; singing Gregorian chants in her church; honoring and speaking for friends who have passed in the Filipino community; celebrating the first donors at the
Zooming with Telemundo for property tax issues.
Illinois Holocaust Museum; visiting friends and speaking at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village; celebrating Greek Independence Day; attending events at Univision Mexico; cooking in church halls; doing Serbian TV interviews; being the honored guest and
Maria being interviewed by the Serbian Times.
speaker at the Polish Museum; touring bakeries; being featured on zoom calls for R.A.G.E. (Resident Association of Greater Englewood); zooming with the
Maria at a Ukranian picnic.
Finance Ministry from Madrid (who asked her to teach them her methods); presenting her Christmas Trees Around the World exhibit at her Cook County Treasurer's offices (every year); zooming with Telemundo about property tax payments; zooming with the State Department about property tax collections for foreign countries; trying
Maria supporting the cops in Greektown.
her skills at an axe-throwing contest; saluting veterans at a variety of events around town; appearing at Bronzevillededications; celebrating mass at Holy TrinityChurch; appearing on Hispanic Talk Radio; appearing on the cover of the Filipino VIA Times, Korean Television, Chinese News, etc.; taping infomercials at Graham Methodist; writing a children's book, "Me and My Iguana," to help them cope during the pandemic; baking for St. Joseph's Day; celebrating Bulgarian Independence Day; honoring African American history in Englewood; playing a
Maria in the pulpit!
mean piano during office holidays and so much MORE!….I think you get the picture. Maria is
Maria saluting our vets.
on top of whatever is happening in the city and, more importantly, she's making appearances that matter in our communities. Besides being talented at writing, playing the piano and cooking, she clearly loves and cares about people. And they love her right back, connecting with her from every ethnicity. She has friends in high, low and everything-in-between places. We all want to be her best friend. Some of her latest triumphs include hosting her own show on WVON 1690 AM
Speaking at the Polish National Alliance.
radio, "Black Houses Matter." On the show, she lets viewers know the many ways they can collect property tax refunds that they might not be aware of. (Her Cook County Treasurer's website is in 24 different
Baking for St. Joseph's Day.
languages!) She expanded this property tax refund idea to a live phone bank telethon that's appeared on ABC-7 several times. To date, this telethon has generated nearly $13 million in refunds to Illinois property owners! Her "20 Year Tax Bill Study" rattled a lot of cages around town when she discovered and disclosed that the county's tax bills virtually doubled
Maria participating in an axe throwing contest.
over the past 20 years, an increase that is nearly triple the rise in the cost of living index. Her latest efforts involve a re-beautification of the Magnificent Mile which, as we all know, has suffered greatly following the rioting with many stores still boarded up. Her Instagram and Facebook posts ask
Maria on Hispanic Talk Radio.
Alderman Brian Hopkins, "What is magnificent about this?" as she shares photos of crumbling sidewalks, trash and other unsightly scenes. She clearly feels our pain. And I will admit, I'm also speaking as a friend. I've had the privilege of knowing her for many years now and I can tell you, what you see is what you get. There is not a phony bone in her body and her empathy for others knows no bounds. Personally, I think she would make a great mayor. I know she says no, but I think Mayor Maria has a great ring to it. (Follow her on Facebook and Instagram, www.cookcountytreasurer.com )
Whirl raised over $1M for Brookfield Zoo and its programs.
I'm so excited for Brookfield Zoo! This year, the Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) celebrated its 40th anniversary of the Whirl, its largest annual fundraiser. The event, co-hosted by the Society’s Board of Trustees and Women’s Board, was held virtually on May 1. Hundreds of guests tuned in during the virtual
Michael and Melissa Canning, WHIRL co-chairs.
fundraiser, which grossed over $1.1 million for the animals at Brookfield Zoo as well as the Society’s conservation, education, and research programs. The evening featured welcoming
Dr. Stuart Strahl, president and CEO of the Chicago Zoological Society
comments from Dr. Stuart Strahl, president and CEO of CZS, who recognized the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chicago Zoological Society, the nonprofit organization that manages Brookfield Zoo. Additional remarks were given by Michael and Melissa Canning, Whirl co-chairs; Toni Preckwinkle, president of the Forest Preserves of Cook County; John Grube, chairman of the Society’s Board
Sasha Gerritson, president of the Women’s Board of the Chicago Zoological Society
of Trustees; and Sasha Gerritson, president of the Women’s Board of CZS. Auctioneer Jonathan Kraft announced the fundraiser’s virtual paddle raise and live auction. Additionally, videos
The band Maggie Speaks performed via Zoom.
featuring many of Brookfield Zoo’s charismatic animals were highlighted throughout the evening and Maggie Speaks, one of Chicago’s most popular bands, entertained the viewing audience with several songs. During the event, attendees were able to bid on dozens of
John Grube, chairman of the Chicago Zoological Society’s Board of Trustees
amazing silent auction items that included a stunning piece of jewelry courtesy of A. MarekFine Jewelry; a
Toni Preckwinkle, president of the Forest Preserves of Cook County
Kate Spade exotic tote; sports memorabilia, including a signed football by Green Bay Packers legendary quarterback Bart Starr; an exquisite elephant brooch; an array of gift basket packages from local venues; and animal-themed opportunities from Brookfield Zoo such as VIP tours and naming one of the zoo’s Bennett’s wallaby joeys and a black-footed cat.
A day in the country was just what we all needed, especially when it was our first-time trip to Richardson's Adventure Farm. Arranged by Service Club of Chicago leader Heather Spyra, in Spring Grove, IL. (909 English Prairie Rd.), the event was an opportunity for a few Service Club members to experience this adventure that included a
Chuck got into the bloomin' spirit too!
delightful box lunch. Heather put her own touch on everything, including a tulip shaped cookie! This was the farm's first time Tulip Festival and the turnout, despite inclement weather, was terrific. The festival ended May 9, but, believe me, this place ALWAYS has something going on!
The SC gang is all here!
When we visited, there were 300,000 tulips popping up in 30 different varieties, with many guests picking their own bouquets in a specially designated area. The venue is on a private lakefront location with food trucks scattered here and there. There was plentiful free parking, dogs were welcome on leashes and, throughout the year, they also offer live music on
Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Sapna Rathi.
Saturday and Sunday afternoons, a corn maze, a Christmas event with trees and lights, a Halloween Festival, a great gift shop with fresh donuts, kettle corn, etc. and so much more. I loved seeing so many familiar faces that day like Sherrill Bodine, Liz
They have a great gift shop there too!
Teasley, Kathy Mondelli, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Sherry Abrahams, Bonnie Rickard, Sapna Rathi, Lezley Hodes, Lauren Lein Cavanaugh and so many others. Since Lake Geneva is only 20 minutes away, Chuck and I decided to make a weekend of it. We stayed, for the first time, at the Geneva Inn. We tried to stay here previously
Such beauty there! Richardson's has something going on year-round so be sure and check it out!
but they don't accept pets, so I doubt we'll return, but it was a lovely spot situated right on the lake. The dining room has beautiful views of the sunset but, our top choice for dining is always Mars Resort–it has live piano music, a lively bar and a mean Friday night fish fry. We also love Anthony's Steakhouse and I always get a kick out of the grizzled old men doing the seating. They seem like they could care less if anyone was there or not but, even this was charming and I always love a good relish tray. Lake Geneva will never lose its charm for us. (On the way back, we stopped at a wonderful grocery store in Antioch, the Old Mill Creek Country Store–loaded with items we'd never seen before….wish it was closer!)
Marlon and Tito Jackson accept plaque declaring "The Jackson Family Day" in Gary at the opening of the Hard Rock Casino.
It was a Windex-blue sky for the grand opening of The Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana that opened with much fanfare and a guitar smash on Friday, May 14. An untold number of city officials were proudly in attendance as was Gary Mayor Jerome Prince and his wife, former Senator Earline Rogers (known as "the Queen of Gaming" as she's responsible for the legalization of gaming in Indiana), Tito and Marlon Jackson, Deniece Williams (4-time Grammy Award winner, "Let's Hear it for the Boy"), Kym Mazelle (the "First Lady of House Music"), Marshall Thompson (member of the Grammy Award-winning group,
Kym Mazelle, the "first lady of house music".
the Chi-Lites), Pete Wentz (Fallout Boy), Mark Sayers McGrath (lead singer for rock band Sugar Ray), Crystal Taliefero (singer/songwriter), Donald and Ken Kinsey (Big Daddy Kinsey and the Kinsey Report), members of The Seminole Tribe of Florida (who own the HRI brand), and so
Rockers Pete Wentz and Mark McGrath.
many others. Mayor Prince welcomed the crowd, including dozens of press outlets, to the event. He proclaimed it "The Jackson Family Day" in the city and presented Marlon and Tito with a plaque. Dozens of pieces of memorabilia are on display from the Jackson family including Joe Jackson’s original guitar, that started it all (a 37-foot replica is the centerpiece of the complex located at the entrance), outfits worn on stage by the Jacksons, Michael’s famous Swarovski crystal
Lots of Jackson Family memorabilia at the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.
glove and Florsheim Imperial shoes from his "Thriller" video, THE red leather jacket from the "Beat It" video, Janet Jackson’s suit from her "Velvet Rope" tour as well as objects from other artists that have connections to the Jacksons – including Elvis, Lady Gaga, Eddie Van Halen, Justin
Kym Mazelle, Mayor Justin Prince, Deniece Williams, and Regina Smith.
Timberlake, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Pharrel, Shakira and Fergie. Marlon said, "I want to thank the Hard Rock Hotel for being the first to take a step and see Gary's vision and wanting to be a part of it, creating so many jobs. So, Gary, a diamond in the rough–you're ready to get polished baby!" He and Tito also thanked city officials for making
The Jackson Family Home, soon to be landmarked, at 2300 Jackson St.
the Jackson Family Home, at 2300 Jackson St., a historical landmark. "It was about a city called Gary, a school called Roosevelt, but most of all it was about a little house on a little street filled with noise and
Earline Rogers, known as the "Queen of Gaming" for her efforts at bringing gaming to Indiana.
music, and most of all, love, " Tito said. A customary Hard Rock guitar smash followed many speeches and signaled the opening of the Casino as all the dignitaries onstage smashed guitars emblazoned with the HR logo following a countdown. Fireworks went off
Michael's GLOVE on display at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.
behind the stand as the crowd rose for a standing ovation. A bank of press, stationed in the rear, captured every moment. The Casino is easily accessible from Chicago (just 45 minutes away) and is located on 29th Street just off Interstate 80/94 at the Burr Street exit in Gary. The $300 million, 200,000 square-foot entertainment complex has nearly 1,600
Members of The Seminole Tribe of Florida, who owns the HRI brand.
gaming tales, 5 restaurants, a theater and a 1,954 seat live performance venue. The new casino is the result of the relocation of the two Majestic Star Riverboat Casinos that are owned by The Seminole Tribe of Florida, into one land-based facility. Since the groundbreaking for the new facility in 2020, Gary officials hope it will provide the economic boost that the struggling Northwest Indiana city needs. (Open 24 hours daily, all details here) (First published in Chicago Star)
Bernarda "Bernie" Wong, a champion for the Chinese American community and so many others.
The Chinese American Community has lost one of its biggest champions in Bernarda "Bernie" Wong who passed away at age 77 on April 27. She was beyond a dynamo and, when I first met her, I just couldn't believe how much love, spirit, laughter, caring and empathy for others she carried in that small frame of hers. Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel joked that "no one ever says no to Bernie" and he was so right. She was always on a mission to improve her community and
Bernie Wong in her award-laden office at CASL.
mankind in general and it was an honor to know her and a pure joy to see her in action. I was invited to her Senior Center in Chinatown once to receive a little plaque and Bernie beamed from ear to ear the entire time and was so joyous introducing me to each and every one of the members,
With Bernie Wong and her beloved seniors.
acknowledging their families and relating all of their many histories, which she knew by heart. Her office was filled to over-flowing with every kind of award imaginable. She was such a beloved individual and I know, anyone who knew her or of her, will have a deep hole in their hearts with her passing. Please sign the Bernie Wong memorial page here and save-the-date for the next Chinese American Service League (CASL) Gala which will be held in her memory on October 21. Details here.
With Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and Luxe Bloom's Shelley Rosen on Mother's Day.
Luxe Blooms' Shelley Rosen wanted to cheer up Chicago so she enlisted two of its biggest cheerleaders, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas and me! On a
Paul Iacono, Chuck Jordan and Bonnie Spurlock.
rainy Sunday, we, along with loyal supporters, gathered around the JC Decaux bustop at the corner of Michigan and Chicago Avenues and handed out over 500 long-stemmed Ecuadorian roses. The bus stop had been bedecked with a spectacular floral wall, courtesy of Luxe Blooms, that will last until the end of May. This Mother's Day event was a celebration of all mothers and women of Chicago and intended to bring the community together as a reminder to take care of our city and neighborhoods. We jumped on buses to hand out roses and stopped people in the street. One woman broke
Marie Mancuso (R) and her goddaughter Judith Kenny.
down in tears after Bonnie Spurlock handed her a flower. Other do-gooders included Paul Iacono, Paul Kawa,
Luxe Bloom's Shelley Rosen, R, and friend in front of her JC Decaux floral wall.
Humberto Jimenez (Consul General of Ecuador), Kenichi Okada (Consul General of Japan), Sam Ma (Honorary Chair of the American-Asian Society), Kina Bagovska (Director Magura Bulgarian Cultural Center), Nanta Buranakanchana (Asian American Coalition of Chicago), Vandana Jhingan (Midwest Bureau Chief TV Asia), Suzie Glickman, Kate Murray, Joey Majumdar, Marie Mancuso (and friend) and others. It was a "Random Act of Kindness" that brightened peoples' day. We need more of this, right? (Check out Luxe Blooms' amazing (miracle) roses here and thanks for all you do in our communities Maria and Shelley!
Deborah Farmer, author "My Journey With Joshua" w/ her adopted son.
Media veteran, communications agency owner and friend, Deborah Farmer, has written a new book, "My Journey with Joshua", which chronicles her experiences in adoption. She says, "Much of what people know about foster care and
Deborah Farmer and her son Joshua.
adoption turns out to be very little or they know misinformation." Farmer grew up in Chicago, where she worked in newsrooms for two decades before launching Brown Farmer Media Group, a full-service communications firm with nonprofit, small business, corporate and government clients. She adds, "Choosing to adopt is just as valid a route to having kids as is biological birth. I truly never understood the stigma it can have." Her book answers a lot of probing questions about the process as well as describes her joy with motherhood. (More details, purchase the book here!
I'm so excited to see so many events and festivals coming back! Following Mayor Lightfoot and the Governor's comments about Chicago opening up by July, I decided to check to see exactly what was returning and when. Here's what I found: Riot Fest will return to the Douglas Park Golf Course, Sept. 17 thru Sun. Sept. 19. And the debut of the ARC Music Festival (electronic, dance and house music, etc.) is set for Sept 4/5 in Union Park, Chicago. The Gold Coast Art Fairreturns August 21-22 to Grant Park, Butler Field with 200 juried artists and food. The Windy City Smokeout will kick off Chicago's summer festival season in July. The four-day event is scheduled to take place from July 8 through 11 in the parking lot
Pride Fest returns June 19/20.
by the United Center, featuring headlining sets from country artists Brett Eldredge, Jon Pardi, Darius Rucker and Dierks Bentley. Windy City Smokeout will also feature world-class Q provided by pit-masters from across the country, including Truth BBQ (Houston, Texas) and Peg Leg Porker (Nashville). Tickets, on sale now, range from $35 for a single-day ticket to $625 for a four-day VIP pass. The Chicago Park District's Night Out in the Parks is set for July 6-11, bringing more than 100 outdoor screenings of family-friendly films to neighborhood parks this summer. The series will kick off July 6 at Oakdale Park. Details here! And this is just a very few of the events that I've found! Looks like Chicago is coming back bigger and better than EVER! Woot! Woot!
Situated in the former III Forks restaurant space in Lakeshore East, at the corner of Field Blvd. and Benton Place, Avli is far removed from the ghost of this old, dark restaurant. In fact, it's the polar opposite with everything artfully designed in sparkling shades of cream, beige and
With partners LouieAlexakis, designer Nike Demacopoulos and Lou Canellis.
white by the talented Nike (pronounced Nicki) Demacopoulos. The two-level, 13,000-square-foot restaurant, owned by Louie Alexakis, Bill Glastris and Lou Canellis (Fox-32 sports anchor), in partnership with the Magellan Development Group, is draw-droppingly beautiful from the moment you walk through the door. A birch-lined cocktail area, and I suspect a soon-to-be holding "pen," is on the right, before you reach the
The not-yet-complete roof deck will feature gauzy curtains, a long bar and a fire-pit lounge.
hostess station. Then, the room opens up with a direct view of the long, elegant U-shaped bar, a brightly lit wine cellar and wrap-around seating. An outdoor, rooftop deck will offer dazzling views of the city and Lake Shore East Park, a variety of seating options as well as a fireplace lounge. Every single server and worker there were all smiles as well as the principals, including GM Stefanos Lemonis, who table-hopped
Dazzling city views from Avli's soon-to-be-open roofdeck.
throughout the night. That's the way you win friends although with the high level of food service and a delicious menu by Chef Nikolaos Kapernaros, I think they already have it made. Chef Kapernaros has selected dishes for the menu that include his own family's recipes. This is the 4th restaurant in Avli's dining empire with locations in Lincoln Park, River North and suburban Winnetka. Avli on the Park, 180 N. Field Blvd., is open 7 days a week for dinner from 5-11 pm, with reservations via Tock. The restaurant seats 180 in the main dining room, 120 on the rooftop (when it opens), with party and event spaces for 8-100. The restaurant will soon launch a lunch service and a weekend brunch. The venue will also host live music on occasion (think popular Mykonos singers and more). (For more info/ reservations, click here) (First published in Chicago Star here)
The Lincoln Park Conservancy will host a virtual auction, "Wonders of the Park," June 18-20 to benefit Lincoln Park and specifically, the restoration of North Pond. Last year, due to Covid, the Conservancy transformed its annual in-person gala to a virtual auction which raised more than $85,000. This year's virtual auction will offer one-of-a-kind park experiences; uniquely Lincoln Park and Chicago items; hospitality packages showcasing all our great city has to offer; opportunities to purchase benches, trees, gardening supplies, and so much more. Established in 1984 as a nonprofit partner of the Chicago Park District, the Lincoln Park Conservancy has supported Chicago’s largest and most visited park for over 35 years.Proceeds will support the Conservancy’s stewardship and programming across the Park and will help close the last remaining funding gap for the restoration of North Pond beginning this fall.
Maureen and Marc Schulman and family celebrate the reopening of the Eli M. Schulman Playground.
Congrats to the much loved Schulman Family on the grand reopening of The Eli M. Schulman Playground & Seneca Park on May 18. Top political leaders, ranking members of the Chicago Fire Department, local notables, friends and family came together to honor the memory of
Alderman Brian Hopkins presided over the proceedings.
the late, great Eli Schulman in a ceremony at the park created in his honor. Located just east of Chicago's historic Water Tower, Seneca Park and the Schulman Playground provide a peaceful oasis and a welcome touch of green amid an increasingly concrete-heavy city. Not since 1990 has the playground been renovated, Now, updates to
A little superhero in attendance.
the play area include a 16% increase in space and softer surfaces for safety. One area mom, Sharyl Mackey, pointed out that it was nice to see some installations created for older children there too.
CFD Commissioner Annette Holt.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Alderman Brian Hopkins, whose young daughter presented the countdown. Other speakers included Maureen and Marc Schulman, son of Eli and Chair, Seneca Park & Eli M. Schulman Playground Advisory Council; Michael Kelly, CEO Chicago Park District; Annette Holt, Commissioner, Chicago Fire Department; Grant DePorter, Magnificent
Grant DePorter.
Mile Association and Harry Carays; Brian Butler, SOAR VP; Jack Guthman, attorney & trustee, MCA, and others. Recognition was given for Jim
The beautiful Eli M. Schulman Playground is now open!
Letchinger, CEO, JDL & developer, One Chicago. Notables seen in the crowd included Abra Prentice Wilkin and Jim Wilkin, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Mickey Siegel, Sharyl and Mike Mackey, Maria Smithburg, Kate Murray, Rick Kogan and Willa Lang, among others. The event concluded with a poem by Sally Park, read by Andy White of the Lookingglass Theatre. Alderman Hopkins said the playground will see more upgrades in the near future. (First published here in Chicago Star)
Image of Flag Wall Room at The Art of Banksy exhibit in Toronto.
Whoa! Check this out! $35 million worth ofBanksy art is coming to Chicago's West Loop this summer, opening July 1! The world's largest collection of privately- owned Banksy art is coming to the Windy City and will feature prints, canvasses, screen-prints, sculptures and limited-edition pieces dated between 1997 and 2008, including his iconic works "Girl with Balloon (shown in image)," "Flower Thrower" and "Rude Copper.' The event will be held at a yet-to-be-disclosed location in the West Loop (btw, this is getting pretty old already). Tickets on sale here with prices starting at $40 for adults and $30 for children age 16 and younger.
Northalsted Market Days, one of the Midwest's largest street festival, will return August 6-8, adding a Friday night edition, the first in its 38-year history, according to the Northalsted Business Alliance. First held in August 1982, Market Days has grown to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago's north side, featuring all-day lineups of live music and international DJs on 5 stages, 300 vendors, arts, crafts, wares, summer food and drinks, dancing in the street, and more. Market Days, along with Chicago Pride Fest, was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic.
With CSM publisher Elaine Hyde, Jay Kopp and Jon Cohn.
And, as a part of Chicago Star's many offerings to the community, we will be providing video updates of coming events on a regular basis. Here's our first effort, moderated by Elaine Hyde (publisher/editor) and my colleagues Jay Kopp (CSM Director of Brand Development) and columnist Jon Cohn. Watch here!
We're getting pretty excited about our road trip to Three Oaks, Michigan, to enjoy the new, temporary location for Randolph Street Market (while it's Chicago venue undergoes renovation), opening Memorial Day Weekend, May 29/30. Entrance fee is $5 per adult with children under 12 free. One dollar of every tickets purchased will support Fernwood Botanical Garden in Niles-Buchanan, Michigan. Market dates: June 19/20; July 3/4; August 7/8; Sept. 4/5. Can't wait to see YOU Sally Schwartz! (All details here)
Jonny Imerman and his Imerman Angels will be hosting Angels Spirit Week, now through May 27. Each day will offer a different theme, all to benefit and celebrate this wonderful nonprofit that provides 24/7, 365 comfort and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers through a personalized, one-on-one connection with someone who has been there. (For all info, click here!)
Kudos to Tina Weller, besides being a glam-girl-around-town, she also is one of the most philanthropic people I know. Her most recent project, Fumee Claire Candles(clean smoke), came about following a health scare. Many candles give off a number of known toxins so I think her timing for this couldn't be better. Each product purchased will help contribute to a yearly philanthropy fund awarded to a variety of charities that make a difference to those in need. Tina and her team select agencies that provide services to women and children, the food insecure, the disabled, medically challenged, elderly, the arts, preservation and the homeless as well as education enrichment programs for the underprivileged. Not only are they beautiful and smell good but they're also good for your health and the environment. (For more info, click here!)
Tina Weller and her Fumee Claire Candle products, healthy for you and the environment.
me in its cover feature! It's especially nice as I was given the opportunity to highlight one of my favorite nonprofits, PAWS Chicago. The feature was shot on location at the adoption center (1997 N. Clybourn), with a passel of adorable pups. It took all the will power I had not to go home with all of them! This luxury lifestyle magazine serves Chicago, NYC and LA covering the latest trends in fashion, fine dining, nightlife, arts and cultures. 100% of the net proceeds benefit The Aparecio Foundation, a nonprofit that raises funds for educational grants and programs for low-income, high potential women in public high schools. (Read article here and, to order/subscribe, click here).(Article by Courtney Simich, photos by Hope Sayre)
It's like comparing apples and oranges but there are a lot of similarities between the newly opened Greek restaurant Avli in
Venteaux restaurant inside Pendry Chicago.
Lakeshore East and the recently opened, May 26, Pendry Chicago. Located in the loop (230 N. Michigan), the Pendry is a re-imagination of the iconic 1920s era Carbide and Carbon Building. This hotel was formerly the St. James and the differences between then and now are stark. Where the St. James was dark, the Pendry is all light with sparkling brass touches. In its 364 guest rooms and suites, beautiful parquet floors were discovered under the old carpeting. In the grand ballroom, which seats 500+, an enormous window, that was previously covered over, was revealed with great views of Michigan Avenue. And on and on. As the world opens up following the pandemic, restaurants, hotels and bars seem to be following suit, offering guests a more airy feel after the heaviness of isolation. (Read full story here in Chicago Star!)
Love and thanks to all my friends and supporters who
With La Scarola's Joey Mondelli.
reached out to me on my birthday on May 26! The messages and photos took me down memory lane and I'm so grateful. Thanks also to special friends Maria Pappas, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, Peter Kamberos, Paul Iacono, Michael Kutza who made my BD so perfect at La Scarola! And especially big, big love to Joey Mondelli. What a gift you all are!
Chicago Star June 2021, with twins Giovanna Krozel and Almira Yllana (Sugar & Spice) and Landan Twins (Jon and Andrew).
I'm so very exciting to share the newly released June issue of Chicago Star! Read all the fun including my first CSM social column, "City Seen" (if you like what you see, please let my
The debut of "City Seen" with The Joffrey Ballet and Neiman Marcus.
publisher know at ainfo@chicagostarmedia.com. I want to make sure our nonprofit and event communities have an outlet here so please let them hear you!). Also, I hope you enjoy my Ask Candid Candace advice column, my feature about where Chicagoan's want to go next now that travel restrictions are being lessened, Cooking with Amanda Puck and so much more!. All the news you need to make you love where you live, work and play! (Read issue here and please join our family here!) (Don't we have the cutest cover stars too, twins Sugar & Spice (Giovanna Krozel and Almira Yllana) and the Landan Twins (Jon and Andrew)?!
I know this is a lot to take in but I don't want to miss sharing with you! If you have an event, a happening, know of some inspiring person, or have info you would like to see here, please send it to candace@candidcandace.com. And don't forget to send any questions for my Chicago Star monthly Candid Candace Advice Column along too! I love hearing from you!
And, if I've forgotten to include anything you sent previously, please forgive me and give me another chance. With Chicago opening up again, events, restaurants, bars, cultural events and more are exploding with business, not enough yet to make up for their losses, but it's so good to see the buzz in the city again.
And, if not a blog subscriber, please do so now here and follow along with all the fun!
The annual Day on the Terrace fashion show was held on August 1st at the Peninsula Hotel benefiting the Service Club of Chicago, one of the city's oldest philanthropic organizations. It was organized, as always, by the Queen Bee of Chicago – Hazel Barr. She outdid herself this time with an over-the-top show, 
including circus performers on unicycles displaying the store signs, acrobats and everything else you could think of. It was a sold-out event with over 330 gorgeous ladies in attendance. The fashion show consisted of top-of-the-line retailers including a new designer to the show, Quinton d'Alexander. I was lucky enough to 
wear his unique creations – top hat, cane, white gloves and an outfit right from the racetrack in My Fair Lady – and it was so much fun! Other participating stores included Luca Luca (we LOVE Simona!), Dismero, Escada(we LOVE Ann!), Macy's 28 Shoppe, Ultimo, Maria Pinto (who will also be showing her awesome fall fashions for the Joffrey's Couture & Cocktails on Monday, September 15th), Hana K and Neiman Marcus (we missed Tina, who was on vacation). Photos: top left, Hazel Barr with Service Club member and model Cookie Cohen; right, designer Quinton d'Alexander; bottom left, Service Club members and models Sheryl Dyer and Jean Antoniou.
Another fabulous event was organized by our dear friend, Kate Gaynor, on behalf of Marsh and Hinckley boats. It was held at the Chicago Yacht Club on a perfect summer evening. There were hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and then the BOATS! I don't think we can simply call these 
masterpieces boats because they were all handmade and priced in the millions. Breathtaking!
lovely and unique event. For more info, please contact 1-866-HINCKLEY or visit
On July 10th, we attended a party at Table 52 celebrating the opening of the Louis Vuitton Boutique in Nordstrom – Chicago is the only city to have this arrangement 🙂 – a very intimate affair with only about 24 guests upstairs in the restaurant. We were greeted by the infinitely talented chef Art Smith with champagne at the foot of the stairs and when we walked into the upstairs dining area, it took our breath away! The space was designed by our very own Jonathan Ryan and Debi Lilly from A Perfect Event, in conjunction with the LV creative team. All of Jonathan's projects are masterpieces but I think he outdid himself with this one! The room was a sea of candlelight from burgundy tapers that were 
The meal was unbelievable, starting with Art’s signature parmesan cheese and buttermilk biscuits and ending with his famous hummingbird cake; Art even signed all of our menus in silver to commemorate the event.
artist Francine Turk and her husband, Steve; Sven Asmus; Les Coney; great Bears defensive tackle and all around cute guy, Tommie Harris; handsome Bulls guard, Ben Gordon; and Lauren and Brian Rosen. Pete Nordstrom and Daniel LaLonde, president and CEO of LV North America, gave charming speeches, as did Art Smith. The evening was capped off with a chauffeured ride back home. It was one of the best evenings with the most incredible attention to detail. Everyone received a signed cookbook from Art AND a Louis Vuitton wallet!! Unbelievable…a truly a perfect event. Photos: top left, the gorgeous designs of A Perfect Event and signed menua from Art Smith; top right, Heather Vandenberghe, me and artist Francine Turk; bottom left, Art Smith and LV North America CEO Daniel LaLonde; bottom right, Pete Nordstrom, Francine Turk, me and Daniel LaLonde. 
In the first week of June, I took a group of friends including Dori Wilson, Bernice Pink, Hedwig Golant and Jan Bail for a very unique and worthwhile experience: cooking at the Common Threads after-school program with Art Smith and his students. If you haven’t heard of Common Threads, it was started by our wonderful Art and his life partner, Jesus Salgueiro, in October 2001, a month after planes crashed into the World Trade Center 
towers. Art and Jesus traveled to New York on a mission of healing where Art had been asked to cook dinner for a mother and her three school-aged children after their father had disappeared in the collapse of Tower Two. Art and Jesus were so touched by this experience that when they came back to Chicago, Art penned these impactful and fateful words: “For our world is a quilt, its people the fabric, all joined together by common threads.” From this quote, Art and Jesus’ organization grew. Their executive director and my friend, Linda Novick-O’Keefe, drew out their business plan and Common Threads – a non-profit teaching children age 8 to 12 valuable lessons about 
nutrition and food preparation in a number of cultures – was born. Today, Common Threads has a presence in 17 schools across the country and has served over 1,000 kids this year alone. Believe me, this is one organization that makes a difference at the level we need it most: our children. For more information on this worthy effort, please contact Linda Novick-O’Keefe at 312-752-2692 or visit
party at the hot new Affinia Hotel for the upcoming Couture & Cocktails event scheduled for Monday, September 15th, as mentioned above. It also was the official opening of New York chef Marcus Samuelson’s first foray into the Chicago restaurant scene with C-House. The crowd was hot but the 29th floor C-View Lounge was even hotter. The rooftop deck and secluded sexy bar has become THE place to be this summer; check it out at 166 E. Superior! For C-House reservations, please call 312-523-0923. Photo: left, CEO Brooke Barrett, C-House chef Marcus Samuelson, me and CEO Patrick Denihan; right, Shawn Moskalak, Shauna Montgomery and Gregg Zgonena.
Here is some wonderful Joffrey Ballet news for all of you fans and friends: On September 11th in Millennium Park, the Joffrey Ballet will headline a program entitled An Evening of Remembrances–A Salute to the Victims and Families of 9/11. Helen Melchior will serve as the chairman of the entire weekend 
of events including the official opening night in the Black Box Theatre on Friday, September 12th, a black tie dinner followed by the first performance in the Joffrey's new home. Tickets are $1,000 and it will be an event not to be missed; history in the making, I tell you! The whole city will be celebrating with banners along Randolph Street, pointe shoes and costumes with congratulatory signs in windows along Oak Street and Michigan Avenue, even the old Esquire Theater marquee is carrying our message as I type! There will be a public open house with tours on Saturday, September 13th and the opening events will close with the must-attend party of the season, Couture & Cocktails, on Monday, September 15th. This party will feature the dazzling fall fashions of designer to the stars (and possibly first lady), Maria Pinto, a live auction including Van Cleef and Arpels diamond earrings valued at over $25,000, two tickets (plus airfare) to Wimbledon for the men's semi-finals and finals in 2009 and an original Joffrey Ballet charcoal portrait by Francine Turk. For information, please contact Nicole Patrick at 312-386-8921. Photo: left, Joffrey Ballet logo; right, Joffrey artistic director Ashley Wheater and opening events chairman Helen Melchior.
Now, on a personal note, what gorgeous goddaughter of mine got up close and personal with Vogue magazine’s editor-at-large, Andre Leon Talley? Samantha Amato, of course! She should be a model but she won’t listen to her aunt. Her mother and my dear friend, Rhonda Sanderson, were recently guests of Nordstrom in New York for a designer shopping experience where they met Carolina Herrera, Phillip Lim, Peter Som, and Vogue editor Anna Wintour who “was the size of a pencil.” Photo: left, Samantha Amato and Andre Leon Talley.
This fall will be a classic and clean-line lover’s delight. The clothes are chic and cut to a turn. I think Michael Kors has nailed the looks this year; he has designed some incredible fur collars that you just slap around your neck with any outfit and it’s instantly chic. For this matter, if you have an old fur coat that’s out of style and you don’t know what to do with it, have it made into a cool collar or a giant muff – this is what I’ll be doing! I also love the simple classic colors: black, camel and gray. These colors are also so great to travel with because they all mix so well. I’m leaving for Cape Cod for the first time soon so I will let you know how I did with my packing! It’s Sandy Deromedi’s 50th birthday party and we’re all going. I’ll have photos for you in my next blog. Photo: right, a fur collar designed by Michael Kors.
