Tag Archives: Limelight Catering

May 13, 2013 · 8:57 am

STEPPENWOLF’S MILLION DOLLAR FUNDRAISER IS LOADED WITH TALENT!

…PLUS BUTTERFLY, CAMPFIRE AND DISCOVERY BALLS; NEIMAN MARCUS' FAB MAN’S STORE OPENING; STACIE’S “TEA FOR TOTS”; GLAMORAMA; THE DINNER PARTY (VIDEO); WONKA BALL WAS A THREE-RING CIRCUS!; CENTER ON HALSTED’S HUMAN FIRST GALA; OZZIE IS BACK!; ROBERT REDFORD LOVES CHICAGO AND SO MUCH MORE!

Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s star-studded ensemble was joined by 600 members of Chicago’s corporate, civic and cultural communities for its 2013 gala on May 4th, raising $1.1 million for Steppenwolf’s artistic, educational and
community programming! Its premier fundraising event took place in the Downstairs Theatre (1650 N. Halsted) and at Blackhawk on Halsted (1460 N. Halsted) and offered guests the unique opportunity to connect with Steppenwolf artists while
enjoying theatrical entertainment and the chance to bid on once-in-a-lifetime auction items. The gala kicked off at Steppenwolf Theatre Company with a showcase of scenes from the world-premiere production of “Head of Passes” by ensemble member Tarell Alvin McCraney, directed by ensemble
member Tina Landau and featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas and Tim Hopper. Following the performance, the party moved two blocks south to Blackhawk on Halsted, a space with theatrically-inspired décor by Event
Creative and a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline. There, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner prepared by Limelight Catering and the annual live auction (led by auctioneer Michael Davis of Hart Davis Hart Wine Co.) including once-in-a-lifetime
adventures with Steppenwolf ensemble members and artists. The evening concluded with dancing and live music and a late night set with DJ Madrid. Steppenwolf ensemble members in attendance included: Kevin Anderson, Alana Arenas,
Kate Arrington, Robert Breuler, Gary Cole, K. Todd Freeman, Jon Michael Hill, Tim Hopper, co-founder Terry Kinney, Tina Landau, Martha Lavey, 2013 Tony Award nominee Laurie Metcalf, 2013 Tony Award nominee Amy Morton, Sally Murphy, co-founder Jeff
Perry, Yasen Peyankov, Rondi Reed, co-founder Gary Sinise, Lois Smith and Jim True-Frost. The gala co-chairs were Ron and Paula Mallicoat, Deborah and Stephen Quazzo, Colette Cachey Smithburg
and Tom Smithburg. Other notable guests included Steppenwolf Board Chair Nora Daley, Chairman and CEO of Northern Trust Rick Waddell, Ellen Alberding and Kelly Walsh, Trisha Rooney Alden, Barbara Byrd-Bennett, David and Luann Blowers, featured actor in “Head of Passes” Cheryl Lynn Bruce, Phil
and Mary Beth Canfield, Michael and Elizabeth Cole, Mary Dempsey, Peter and Paula Fasseas, Paul and Mary Finnegan, David and Alexandra Fox, King and Steppenwolf Trustee Caryn Harris, Jack
and Marty Higgins, Marko Iglendza, Deputy Mayor Steve Koch, Rick Kogan, 2013 Tony Award nominee and 2013/14 Steppenwolf director Pam MacKinnon, Barry and Tracy Mansur, Randy and Evie Lyon, 2013/14 Steppenwolf playwright Bruce Norris,
Penny Pritzker and Bryan Traubert, Bruce and Diana Rauner, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Michael and Cari Sacks, Michael Shannon, Bill and Maria Smithburg, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Courtney Thompson, Steve Traxler, Estelle Walgreen and Neal
Zucker. Northern Trust was a lead sponsor of the 2013 gala, Liz and Eric Lefkofsky were the Live Auction Sponsors, and Deborah and Stephen Quazzo were the Live Entertainment Sponsors. Co-founders Terry Kinney, Jeff Perry and Gary Sinise started off the live auction with prizes that included an exclusive
dinner in New York with Steppenwolf ensemble member and three-time Emmy Award-winning actress Laurie Metcalf and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Bruce Norris, as well as prime tickets to Norris’ new play featuring Metcalf, “Domesticated,” at Lincoln Center, and luxury seats in a suite at a
Chicago Cubs home game on August 12th with Steppenwolf ensemble member William Petersen, who will sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh inning stretch. Also included was a signed jersey from Chicago Cubs two-time all-star Kerry Wood; an intimate cocktail reception, dinner and tequila tasting in the
Chicago home of acclaimed Chef Rick Bayless with guests of honor Steppenwolf ensemble members Joan Allen and Martha Lavey with Chef Rick and Deann Bayless, followed by a performance of “The Wheel,” featuring Allen in her return to the Steppenwolf stage for the first time since 1991; an exclusive, private dinner at The Underground Goat with a menu
prepared exclusively by Chef Stephanie Izard with guests of honor Steppenwolf co-founders Terry Kinney and Josh Charles (star of the CBS drama “The Good
Wife”). As excitement built for this package during the event, fellow Steppenwolf co-founders Jeff Perry and Gary Sinise as well as frequent Steppenwolf artist and Academy Award nominee Michael Shannon joined the package; a sneak peek at the film “August: Osage County” in the Chicago home and private screening room of ensemble member and Pulitzer Prize-
and Tony Award-winning “August” playwright Tracy Letts; four prime tickets to the Broadway opening of “Of Mice and Men” directed by Tony Award-winning ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro and starring James Franco. Also included were a private backstage tour and champagne toast with Shapiro and exclusive passes to the official opening night party; a “Scandal”ous weekend in Los Angeles,
including a private, gourmet dinner in the Hollywood Hills home of Steppenwolf co-founder and star of the ABC political drama “Scandal,” Jeff Perry and Emmy Award-winning casting director Linda Lowy, “Scandal” co-stars Tony Goldwyn and Bellamy Young, as well as Steppenwolf ensemble member Rondi Reed from the CBS comedy, “Mike & Molly.” Guests also receive signed scripts and photos with the cast of “Scandal.” WOW! Now that’s an exciting auction list if I’ve ever seen one! This is always a great event especially with the stars of Steppenwolf in attendance! Congrats STC! (For more info, please visit www.Steppenwolf.org.) (Photos by Kyle Flubacker and Joan Hackett.)

Guests from across Chicagoland celebrated nature and science May 3rd at the Chicago Academy of Sciences and its Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s 15th annual Butterfly Ball. More than 620 guests enjoyed the Museum’s signature gala,
which raised more than $1.52 million to support the museum’s essential education initiatives. Each aspect of the gala showcased the museum’s commitment to be the urban gateway to nature and science. The theme for the
evening – “Savour Nature” – was inspired by the museum’s newest self-developed exhibition, “Food: The Nature of Eating.” The ball’s décor, designed by Event Creative, featured centerpieces made of local flora and vegetation. Mason jars filled with locally grown vegetables were scattered throughout the museum for guests to enjoy. During the cocktail
hour, guests had the opportunity to explore the museum in its entirety, enjoy the serene, tropical paradise that is the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, interact with animals from the museum’s Living Collections and experience the Food exhibition. “We are so thankful for the way corporate and civic leaders continue to embrace and support the essential work we do at the museum,” said Deborah Lahey, the museum’s
president and CEO. “Their support enables us to continue connecting our guests, students, teachers and Chicagoans to the wonder of nature and science.” Distinguished Butterfly Ball co-chairs Mamie and Gregory Case (Aon), Claire and Joseph A. Gregoire (PNC Bank), Donna and Anders Gustafsson (Zebra Technologies Corporation) and
Kelly and David P. Hackett (Baker & McKenzie) were recognized by Lahey and Chair of the Board of Trustees Susan Whiting (Nielsen Corporation). The museum’s senior curator of urban ecology Steve Sullivan and student programs coordinator Michelle Rabkin concluded the program with an exciting science experiment that ended in applause.
Calihan Catering created a menu that began with a gazpacho salad followed by a filet of beef with cabernet reduction sauce with grilled Green Market asparagus and Yukon gold potato and parsnip puree. Dessert was chocolate vanilla bean panna cotta with poached Seedling Farm cherries and shaved dark chocolate. Following dinner, guests danced to music from Dr. Bombay, sponsored by Lincoln Park 2550. For more info about this cultural highlight and their programs, please visit www.naturemuseum.org. (To view more pics from this always amazing event, please click here!)

Nearly 900 guests attended the sixth annual American Cancer Society’s Discovery Ball at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel recently. Actor and comedian Billy Gardell, star of the CBS comedy “Mike & Molly,” performed
at the black-tie event that was emceed by ABC 7 news anchor Ron Magers. “The Discovery Ball is a great opportunity for us to come together with the corporate and philanthropic community in support of the fight against cancer,” said John Hinshaw,
executive vice president of technology & operations for Hewlett-Packard and one of the society’s “100 Ambassadors for Our 100th Birthday,” a distinguished leadership group comprised of corporate leaders and
philanthropists. “Every year I am amazed by the individuals that make this event a success,” Hinshaw remarked. “Let’s all renew our commitment to finding a cure and celebrating more
birthdays.” More than 20 percent of the evening’s proceeds were generated from the nearly 170 silent auction items, eight live auction packages and a raffle. Top live auction items included a 2.95 carat Tiffany & Co. diamond bracelet and trip to New York City for “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” in the
jeweler’s famous store. (This package sold for $18,000.) A Paris Air Show package sold for $15,000. Next year’s American Cancer Society Discovery Ball will be held on April 26th so mark your calendars now! The event raised more than $2.1 million for the American Cancer Society! (To view more pics from this night, please click here!)

Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue hosted a grand unveiling bash to introduce their new Man’s Store to 700 of Chicago’s most stylish men and women who flocked to the fourth floor for the festivities. General Manager Wendy Krimins personally greeted
each guest as they arrived. As you may know, the store is undergoing a massive renovation of the entire building and this is the first area to be finished. The new department on the fourth floor encompasses 11 shops from the best designers such as Kiton, Ralph Lauren Black Label, Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, Brioni, Giorgio Armani, Zegna, Isaia, Tom Ford, Stefano Ricci and Gucci. All of the shops have a unique design so you feel like you are in a private boutique
setting. The party also celebrated CS Magazine’s Men of Style issue. This
year’s stylish gents were DJ Matt Roan, auction house owner Richard Wright, Oak Street’s Rino Burdi, Jamal Mayers, Leonard Goldberg, Chris Hendel, Dr. Julius Few and Mike Cao. Neiman’s fashion director Matthew Singer along with IZOD Indycar Series Driver of Andretti Autosport E.J. Viso,
were also special guests in attendance. The engines roared in honor of Viso with a slot car racing track presented by Kiton. The crowds loved it and kept cheering the players all
evening long. Revae Schneider, the party's exclusive mixologist of Femme du Coupe, showing off her mix master skills behind illuminated lucite bars. Guests relaxed and escaped the crowds in the sophisticated setting of the
Man’s Store club room with Dewar’s 12 scotch tastings and goodies from Baked by Pure Kitchen. DJ Rock City shook the floors with his genius mash-ups and kept the party going strong until the lights went down. Well-dressed party goers included Corri McFadden, D.C. Crenshaw, Kyle De Santis, Noreen Heron, Marcus Riley, Jon and Andrew Landan, CBS TV sportscaster Ryan
Baker, CS Magazine’s John Carroll, CS Men’s Book publisher Amy Wimer, new GNMAA president Mary Ann Rose and her husband Heinz Kern, Adrienne and Stan Green and Omar Barragan. This great new space is
destined to be the ultimate place for men to shop! Congrats Neiman Marcus – I can't wait to see ALL of your exciting renovations! Love this store, much to my husband’s chagrin! 🙂 (Check out more pics here!)

The Ozzie Guillen Foundation was founded in Venezuela in 1998 by Ozzie and his wife, Ibis, with the goal to improve the lives of children and families who have been touched by various illnesses. The foundation has expanded its reach to support foster children and families and to enhance educational opportunities for some of Venezuela’s most underserved youths. In 2013, Ozzie and Ibis decided it was time to bring the foundation’s work to the United
States and received their 501(c)(3) certification. While expanding the foundation’s efforts in the United States, the mission of supporting children in need will continue both in the Chicagoland area and throughout the country. So welcome Ozzie and Ibis back to town on May 29th at Grid (351 W. Hubbard) beginning at 6:30 p.m. and help them help others. There will be cocktails, a silent auction, raffle prizes and hot sounds by Dante’s Danny V. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.OzzieGuillenFoundation.org.)

For all the families out there, here is someone you should know and a not-to-be-missed event! Milesh Jain (aka Dr. Ghabit) has authored a delightful children’s book that teaches little ones how to leave a greener footprint on the earth. With delightful visuals and a clever storyline, Milesh has created a book for all ages called “Gaby’s Organic Garden” and on May 17th, the author will present “Under One Green
Roof,” a fun-filled workshop at the Auditorium Theater located at 430 S. Michigan that will introduce kids to Ghaby, the green penguin from planet Ghabit, who will share her green stories, present educational activities for parents and kids including storytelling, making heart seed planters, yoga, dancing, painting and more! For more info, please visit www.ghabit.eventbrite.com or contact Milan at info@ghabit.com.

Well, Chicago will finally get its own version of a reality show in a very big way when Robert Redford comes to town to film “Chicagoland,” an eight-part series/documentary ordered by CNN that will “look at the challenges faced by the city of Chicago.” According to the CNN press release, “Chicagoland”
will capture “the riveting, real-life drama of a city looking to unite at this critical moment in the city’s history. In the aftermath of a countrywide economic collapse, Chicago faces the challenges of improving its public education system, and neighborhood and youth safety. Can the city's leaders, communities, and residents come
together in ways that expand opportunities and allow aspirations to be realized?” I'll answer that: HELL YES! Series producer Marc Levin said, “Chicago is the quintessential American city and where it goes tells us a lot about where our country is going.” The series will be executive produced by Redford and his Sundance Productions partner Laura Michalchyshyn with filmmakers Marc Levin and Mark Benjamin (“Brick City”). Love that our city is playing host to so many exciting movie productions! Move over L.A., it’s Hollywood Central right here in Chicago!

Each year, Center on Halsted hosts its annual Human First Performance & Gala to recognize the contributions of individuals, businesses and other organizations to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities in Chicago. Human First provides an opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate past accomplishments, while looking forward to the work
ahead as we continue to build a human first world, together. This year’s Human First Award recipients are Sarah Schmidt & Julie Matthei, Brad Lippitz & Jonathan “Yoni” Pizer, who have each actively participated in the advancement of the marriage equality movement, and Richard Turner, who has been active in AIDS/HIV and LGBTQ issues for decades. The Community Spirit Award will go to Allstate Insurance Company, which has been a great supporter of Center on Halsted programs. Co-chairing this year’s event are CEO Integrys Energy Group Charles A. Schrock and Chairperson of the Board for
Chicago Cubs Charities Laura Ricketts. Billie Jean King, who has done so much to advance the rights of women both on the court and off, has agreed to serve as honorary co-chair along with Maria C. Bechily, Amina Dickerson, Anne L. Kaplan and Abby O’Neil & Carroll Joynes. Headlining this year’s Human First gala on Saturday, MAY 18, will be Chicago-born singer, songwriter and musician Chaka Khan!! Visit www.centeronhalsted.org/hf for tickets and pricing.

This year’s Glamorama promises to be one exciting night of fashion and fun in Chicago with the addition of Sheryl Crow as the featured entertainment! Held this year at the Harris Theater on August 9th, the ever-popular after-party will be held under the stars on the Rooftop Terrace following the fashion show and performances with all the excitement you've come to love and expect from Macy’s Passport Presents! Themed “Fashion in a New Light,” this event will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities for the fifth year in a row and will also feature a live performance by Cirque du Soleil! AND to kick-off the hottest event of the summer, join me and our illustrious host committee for the official GLAMORAMA LAUNCH PARTY on June 13th (note date change from the 6th) at Gallery 225
(225 W. Hubbard) from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be fun food from Food for Thought, Tito's Vodka cocktails, specialty drink stations, a Hershey dessert bar, music by DJ Sye Young, fashions by beloved local designers who include Anna Fong, Elda de la Rosa, Horacio Nieto and Eva Pazola, the popular
Action Booth, a red carpet reception with Ronald McDonald, eye-popping floral decor by Debi Lilly (A Perfect Event) and so much more! One hundred percent of your ticket purchase will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana! Ticket levels are $75 (performance seating only), $175 (performance seating, access to after-party and access to Launch Party), $285 (premier performance seating, access to after-party and Launch Party) and $1,000 (VIP performance seating, access to after-party VIP Lounge and Launch Party); a ticket to Glamorama at $175 level or higher will provide you with access to the Launch Party on June 13th! (For tickets and more info, please email Christina Thomas at cthomas@rmhccni.org.)

Don’t miss this month’s Randolph Street Market coming May 25th and 26th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival is home to the world-renowned Chicago Antique Market, Indie Designer Market, Modern Vintage Chicago and the Holiday Market. As seen in Travel &
Leisure, the NY Times, Lucky and featured on TV news shows and web casts, the Randolph Street Market Festival is considered “a mecca of cool,” “the best hot spot for antiquing,” “the best Chicago venue for people watching” and “the Barney’s of Vintage.” Celebrity designer Nate Berkus says, “I love this market…the quality is incredible!” As one of Chicago’s most happening monthly parties, Randolph Street Market has become the summer destination: This European-style, indoor-outdoor urban antique market in the historic West Loop neighborhood features 200 select purveyors of high quality, amazingly priced “finds,” offering unlimited creative inspiration and hours of fun. Shoppers can find
furnishings, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles and so much more! Upcoming market dates are June 29/30, July 27/28, August 24/25, September 28/29, October 26/27, November 23/24 and December 14/15. So mark your calendars now and I'll see you there! 🙂

What a thrill it was to appear on “The Dinner Party” with charming, energetic host/creator Elysabeth Alfano at City Winery on May 6th! Guests included WXRT’s funnyman Lin Brehmer and associate director of the Timeline Theatre, Nick Bowling. We, along with the audience, enjoyed tastings of appetizers and entrees created by NoMI’s talented Chef de Cuisine
Sean Pharr. Over food, wine and Vosges chocolates, we discussed everything from theatre in Chicago to Cee-Lo Green. Lin even read one of his popular “Lin Bins” about traveling with family that had the crowd in stitches! The night also included performances by Hubbard Street 2 and a moving musical presentation by singer/actress Rebecca Finnegan (a Jeff Award nominee who will star in the Nick Bowling-directed musical “Juno” next year) and pianist Liz Doran. “Saturday Night Live”
alum Nora Dunn was even in the audience – how cool is that?! Elysabeth, as you may or may not know, also produces the popular Fear No Art show which showcases Chicago’s artistic side in a fun-filled, informative way. Elysabeth has been called the “Rachel Ray of the Chicago art scene” and I couldn’t agree more! To see the latest “Dinner Party,” see below! Congrats Elysabeth and thanks so much for including me on this memorable night…you just rock!

Friends of Prentice will host its annual Make-A-Wish Ball on May 18th at the UIC Forum (725 W. Roosevelt). The event will feature actor/comedian Martin Short as the guest entertainer with “Windy City Live” hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini serving as emcees for the event that attracts more than 1,000 guests who are passionate about supporting children with life-threatening medical conditions. For tickets ($500) and more info, please visit www.wishes.org.

Nearly 450 guests gathered for a three-ring party of colossal entertainment and excessive elegance at About Face Theatre’s WONKA BALL 2013: CIRCUS MAXIMUS on April 26th at Chicago’s Architectural Artifacts, located at 4325 N. Lincoln Ave. Guests were also introduced to
AFT’s newly-announced artistic director Andrew Volkoff, who succeeds outgoing artistic director Bonnie Metzgar this spring. Greeted by fire dancers, stilt walkers, a
swinging mermaid and other sideshow entertainers, guests made their way into the giant red and yellow Wonka Big Top. Following an exclusive Ringmaster’s VIP cocktail reception,
partiers spilled into the playfully decorated venue for spirits and tasty bites at tasting stations and a chance to bid on tempting silent auction items. Partygoers enjoyed non-stop entertainment, including opera tenor Scott Ramsay, a marching band, belly dancers, contortionists and more. Revelers capped off the evening with dancing to the tunes of
DJ Swaguerilla. The 2013 Leppen Leadership Awards were presented to Mary F. Morten and the Office of
Alderman Cappleman and Uptown United. Named for About Face Youth Theatre supporter Michael Leppen, the annual awards recognize those whose efforts on behalf of About Face Theatre and the LGBTQA community empower youth leaders to take action
and encourage LGBTQA adults and youth to create intergenerational
understanding and dialogue. Nemo Serges was the recipient of the About Face Youth Theatre 2013 MVP Award, given annually to an outstanding youth theatre ensemble member for exceptional service to the company and to the greater LGBTQ community. The WONKA BALL 2013 was co-chaired by board members Billy Lullo and Benjamin Sprunger. The company’s 17th annual gala raised more than $85,000 for About Face Theatre programming, including its groundbreaking Youth Theatre. (Check out more pics here!)

On May 18th, join Dr. Stacie McClane Mickelson and her Faces for Love Foundation’s “Tea for Tots” event at the Peninsula Hotel from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stacie founded this non-profit last year to help women and children in distressed situations. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Primo Center for Women and Children (PCWC) and Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC). All guests are asked to bring a new or gently used toy, game or book, which will be donated to children in these shelters. Tickets for adults are $100 and tickets for children 12 years and under are $40. Click here for tickets and more info. I hope to see you there!

Relive your summer camp days at the sixth annual Campfire Ball benefitting Children’s Oncology Services, Inc., at Venue One (1044 W. Randolph) from 7 to 11 p.m. This fun-filled night will include your favorite summer camp treats (think s’mores, tater tots, mac and cheese) from Hub 51 and Bub City, Theory, Stout and Swirlz. Enjoy spiked bug juice served up by local celebrity bartenders (such as Aly Bockler, Anthony Ponce, Kori Chambers, Whitney Reynolds, Gina Ferraro and Ron Kittle) and help send kids with cancer to the inspiring One Step At A Time Summer Camp! For tickets and more info, please visit www.CampfireBall.org or call 312.235.6836.

The Greater North Michigan Avenue Association (GNMAA) will host its annual gala on May 17th at the Hyatt Regency Chicago presented by Northstar Lottery Group. This year’s theme – “Shaken, Not Stirred” – celebrates 50 years of James Bond traveling the world in film. The evening will begin with a cocktail and gaming reception hosted by Rivers Casino followed by dinner in the grand ballroom. Guests will dance the night away to music provided by The Business, a Chicago-based horn band. For tickets and more info, please click here!

And last but not least, the Juvenile Protective Association will hold its signature “Mission Possible” benefit on May 17th at 6:30 p.m. at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Proceeds from JPA’s largest event of the year will support programs serving Chicago's families who are struggling with child abuse and neglect. The auction highlights will include a chance to win a photo shoot with renowned photographer Victor Skrebneski, a baseball autographed by some of the greatest Hall of Famers including Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Lou Gehrig, and a walk-on role/set visit through ABC’s Golden Globe- and Emmy-winning TV show, “Modern Family.” For tickets ($350) and more info, please click here! (I've never seen such incredible auction offerings! OMGoodness!)

I hope I’ll see you at some of these wonderful events around town! Chicago is such a supportive city and it thrills me to see the amounts being raised for so many deserving charities! Great fun and great causes! Have a beautiful week and I’ll see you again soon!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Jenny McCarthy on her successful sixth annual Rescue Our Angels event held at Chicago hotspot Studio Paris on April 23rd. More than 350 guests turned out to help raise funds to support families dealing with an autism diagnosis via non-profit Generation Rescue. (Jenny is the organization’s president.) Honorees for the evening and the event co-chairs were Michele and Peter Doyle, who founded Rescue Our Angels. Great job, Jenny – thanks for raising autism awareness and for all the good work you do!

STEPPENWOLF’S AUXILIARY COUNCIL HOSTS RED OR WHITE BALL

…PLUS IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SHOES FOR SERVICE CLUB AND SAKS, NATIONAL PUBLIC HOUSING MUSEUM BENEFIT CELEBRATES TOP PHILANTHROPISTS, DEFENDING HEF ON NATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO, WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND MORE!

The Steppenwolf Theater’s Red or White Ball began as a simple wine tasting party – hence the name “Red or White” – in 2002 but it has now mushroomed into a must-attend event for the young professional crowd. The party at Architectural Artifacts on April 13th brought out more than 500 guests for a night of music, dancing, cocktails, food tastings and a silent auction. Ensemble members and honorary co-chairs Lily Mojekwu (star of Steppenwolf’s “fml: how Carson McCullers saved my life”) and Robert Schleifer (“The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” star) mingled with guests at the VIP reception along with Kathryn Erbe, star of “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” who also served as honorary chair. Steppenwolf Executive Director David Hawkanson welcomed the crowd and introduced co-chairs Kim Davis, Bryce Cooper and Dina Searle. The VIP portion of the evening included gift bags, special access to Steppenwolf artists, delectable tasting stations from Paris Club, ZED451, Fred’s, The Pump Room and drink stations from Barrelhouse Flat and Goose Island Brewery. The party continued in the main room where guests enjoyed signature red or white cocktails with more food samplings from Limelight Catering and a dessert station courtesy of Magnolia Bakery. A DJ kept the crowd moving and the photo booth provided memories from the evening. The silent auction was loaded with nearly 70 exciting packages that included a private party on a rooftop garden, a one-night stay and a round of golf at the Grand Geneva Resort plus the highlight, round-trip airfare to NY for a Broadway show plus a taping of “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” that sold for $4,700! Other notable guests in attendance included Steppenwolf ensemble member Alana Arenas, Fran Guinan, Jon Michael Hill, Mariann Mayberry and James Vincent Meredith, Carrie Coon (currently appearing at Steppenwolf in “The March”), host Finnigan of KISS-FM, ABC-7 reporter Eric Horng, Ben Pritzker, Jason More, Stephanie and Edward Linn, Stephen Cole, Chef Jean Tippenhauer, Chef Tim Graham, Chef Moosah Reaume, Kady Yon and Chef Kate Milashus. Partygoers grabbed late night snacks from the Wagyu Wagon before moving on to the after-party at Lady Gregory’s. The party raised $80,000 benefitting Steppenwolf for Young Adults, the theater’s nationally recognized arts education program which annually impacts more than 15,000 students, teachers and families. The Red or White Ball is the primary fundraiser presented by Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council, a community of more than 150 dynamic young professionals. Since its inception in 2000, the AC has raised more than $1 million in contributions. (Photos by Kyle Flubaker and Manocam Photography…to view ALL event pics, please click here!)

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The Service Club of Chicago, with hosts Laurie Davis, Susanna Negovan and Maria Smithburg, presented the U.S. premiere of “God Save My Shoes,” a documentary about women and their relationships with their shoes starring Kelly Rowland, Fergie, Dita Von Teese, Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik, among others. Producer Thierry Dahler and director Julie Benasra flew in from Paris a night early to attend a dinner and Q & A with 30 fashionable ladies at Maria Smithburg’s lovely Streeterville apartment. This event was a pre-party for the screening that occurred the following night at the AMC Theatre. The film had only been shown in Paris and Dubai before this first U.S. screening. The Service Club of Chicago’s next big event will be the Mad Hatter Luncheon chaired by member Sherry Lee Holson at the Chicago Club on Thursday, May 10th. This event will include guest speakers and a hat contest; tickets are $100. The SC, one of Chicago’s oldest charitable organizations founded in 1890, donates 100 percent of money raised to its grant program which distributes funds to numerous non-profits around town.

Saks Fifth Avenue hosted one of the best in-store events I’ve attended in a long, long time. Watch312.com was the media sponsor for the evening and I emceed the “Well-Heeled Walk-Off” contest with “DishIT” host Amanda Puck serving as a judge along with Saks’ director of marketing Julie Selakovich and Francesca Moceri from Chicago Children’s Charities. (CCC received a portion of the proceeds from the evening as the event beneficiary.) The contestants tested out all of their best moves on the runway from dancing to model poses inspired by Zoolander. It was a riot and everyone had tons of fun all competing to win a pair of coveted Jimmy Choo shoes. In the end, two dynamic women scored perfect 10s from each judge to compete in the final walk-off. Everyone in the third floor 10022-SHOE Salon had chosen their favorite pairs that included sky-high heels to sequined ballet flats but only two ladies strutted their way to perfect scores. Julia Douglas and Colleen Richardson worked the crowd into a frenzy trying to win their chosen shoes…and when I asked for a show of applause from the crowd to see who they thought was the winner, it seemed to be a tie. It was all up to the judges now as they huddled together for the final decision. And THEY BOTH WON!!! It was a wise decision that brought a huge cheer from the Choo-loving crowd. Congrats to Julie Selakovich on a wonderful event for a great cause! Check out the fun on Watch312.com below and view more fun fotos here! 🙂

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I attended a lovely event at Salvage One recently benefitting the National Public Housing Museum. The keynote speaker was Steve Pemberton, chief diversity officer and divisional vice president for Walgreens and author of “A Chance in the World: An Orphan Boy, a Mysterious Past, and How He Found a Place Called Home.” I highly recommend this book – it’s an inspirational story that crosses generations and cultures but specifically speaks to those who have had the odds stacked against them. (Steve is a fascinating man who spent most of his young life in foster care.) Three renowned philanthropists were also honored including Ford Foundation president Luis Ubinas, president of the Ford Foundation, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter and founder of Universal Companies Kenny Gamble and MacArthur Foundation VP Julia Stasch. Chaired by Greg Cameron, Reuben Cannon, Pam Cullerton and Regina Taylor, the event was “An Afternoon of Good Times” that raised money for the National Public Housing Museum coming to the site of the Jane Addams Homes on W. Taylor Street in June. The Museum is dedicated to interpreting the American experience in public housing from across the nation. (For more info, please visit www.nphm.org.) I loved Greg Cameron’s closing remarks: He quoted Winston Churchill, saying, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Amen to that, Greg! (Photos courtesy of Brian Powers of B. Powers Photography.)

Thanks to “Windy City Live” for having me back to discuss upcoming events! Check out the fun surprise at the end, too! (See video below.) Also, special thanks to WBEZ/National Public Radio for my recent interview with Steve Edwards, host of “The Afternoon Shift.” I shared the airwaves with Steven Watts, professor of history at the University of Missouri and author of “Mr. Playboy, Hugh Hefner and the American Dream” and DePaul professor Carolyn Bronstein, author of “Battling Pornography: The American Feminist Anti-Pornography Movement, 1976-1986.” It was a fun time talking about my Playboy days and defending Hef from the feminists…which seems to be an ongoing battle that just won’t go away…listen here and see the Windy City Live segment below!

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And another thank you shout-out to Hillary Sawchuk and Kelly Kane of “Drink With Chicago” for another fun interview at RL! We discussed everything from, “Did I date Hef?” to “What’s the best way to meet the right guy?” Thanks to photographer Natalie Probst for the wonderful photos, too! Check out the article here!

That’s all for this week but I hope to see you here same time next week! In the meantime, enjoy this popular video about just how far a little creativity can go! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Are you following the Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Childrens’ Countdown? The world’s largest House will be opening on June 26th and, so far, has had lots of familiar faces participate in the countdown including Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Jonathan Toews and Brent Seabrook of the Blackhawks, actor Colin Egglesfield, former Chicago Bear Greg Olsen, pro golfer Chip Beck, former “Bachelorette” Jen Schefft, Lisa Dent and Ramblin’ Ray on US99.5 mornings, ABC-7 sports’ Mark Giangreco, Stefen Holt and Alicia Roman from NBC5 and Chef Art Smith, Jesus Salguiero and Linda O’Keefe of Common Threads! Check here to see who is represented today! Can’t wait to celebrate the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House!

GENE & GEORGETTI’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY BASH!

…PLUS FANTASY NIGHT AT THE LYRIC, COMMON THREAD’S NEW PARTY, DUSTY, TONI AND NENA HOST HAL, JERRY ROPER’S AWARD, THODOS CELEBRATES 20TH, CS MAGAZINE’S COOL PAGE, A NEW WATCH312 VIDEO AND MORE!

There are not many restaurants around town that can boast about a 70th anniversary party but this was happily the case with steakhouse icon, Gene & Georgetti’s. On Sunday evening January 29th, this venerable restaurant celebrated in grand fashion at Park West with a by-invite-only party for more than 300 friends, family, staff and regulars. The evening, produced expertly by Michelle Durpetti (Michelle Durpetti Events), started off with an hour-long film by Loudbyte Cinematography that included regulars, Chicago notables and family on camera discussing the restaurant’s history and never-before-heard stories. Opening the film was longtime regular Terry “Whitey” Pearson and Charles Herrick. Other “stars” included Phil Stefani (who catered the event), Bobby Hatoff (Allen Bros. supplies the meat to the restaurant), Rich Melman, Dominic DiFrisco, Phil Hanahan, Peter Wright, David Lissner, Lee Flaherty and Vince Conroy among many others. Marion and Tony Durpetti are second generation owners (Marion’s dad, Gene Michelotti, founded the restaurant with a partner) and throughout the film, family and friends recounted tales of this beloved spot. DiFrisco spoke about the time Yankees Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio planned a dinner at the restaurant…but first, he had an aide find out whether or not there were photos of Marilyn Monroe on the wall and, if there were, that they were removed before he came. (Her loss was too raw for him to bear.) There was also a story about Lucille Ball: She had asked if she could have her "Mame" premiere party at the restaurant on Saturday night (which would mean closing the restaurant) and Gene said no. She settled for Sunday and the next thing you know, she marched herself in and wanted to meet the man who said “no.” The premiere party WAS planned at the restaurant and a 5’ X 4’ photo of her – autographed in her own red lipstick – hangs on the wall to this day. Michelle had so many exciting plans for the night including partnering with Tracey Tarantino (ZZazz Productions) to have “legends of the stage and screen” make appearances at the party. I saw Elton, Elvis, Madonna, Tina Turner (aka Darcy DiBuono), Lady Gaga, Prince and Dolly circulating throughout the crowd. Michelle also surprised her parents onstage with a custom- created cake by Tipsy Cake lit with sparklers for their 43rd wedding anniversary. Sugar Chic Designs hosted a delectable “movie concession stand” filled with themed sweets (like miniature chocolate Academy Awards) and Garrett’s Popcorn. After the film, Sway Chicago performed a big band-style set followed by a dazzling, live theatrical number by ZZazz Productions. To the dancing crowd’s delight, a confetti cannon blast signaled the last hour of the evening as DJ Brent Rolland of Fig Media kicked off the evening’s grand finale. There were beautiful floral arrangements by Exquisite Designs as well as a red carpet for photo ops. It was such a memorable evening for everyone who loves this restaurant and this wonderful Durpetti family who have done so much to keep Chicago on the map but also to see the love and power of a caring family and their loyal staffers. Long may they reign! (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to see a clip from the film by Loudbyte, please click here.) Also, check out my coverage of this amazing evening for Watch312.com below!

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It is always an elegant evening at the Lyric Opera but for their 28th Fantasy of the Opera Gala, it was “A Night Under the Czars” for this Russian-themed evening that attracted more than 500 guests. Event Creative designed a night of wonder with ice sculptures of Faberge eggs, frosted glass table chandeliers, golden branches dripping with crystal strands and white peacocks overlooking the Grand Foyer from the Mezzanine. Guests enjoyed Moscow Mule cocktails, champagne and other refreshments while they bid electronically on the extensive silent auction items expertly coordinated by auction chairman Julie Anne Benson. Before a seated dinner by Limelight Catering, top Chicago restaurants provided gourmet tastings. (Participating restaurants included Carnivale, Coco Pazzo, Devon Seafood Grill, Il Mulino, N9NE, Prosecco, Province, Vera and more.) I was thrilled to be a guest of Board Member and Gold Sponsor Ken Norgan and his group of friends that included Jose “Pepe” Conforme, Leslie Hindman, Helen Melchior, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Cynthia and Rich Varnes, George Jewell and Karen Harding. Emceed by General Director Anthony Freud, the Fantasy Cabaret performance featured 14 stars of the Lyric’s current and previous seasons. Philip Kraus did a hysterical rendition of Noel Coward’s “Don’t Put Your Daughter on the Stage, Mrs. Worthington” and David Cangelosi, who sang Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” had the crowd joining in on the chorus. We dined like czars and czarinas in boxes 28 and 30 with glowing “Faberge” eggs as centerpieces after the Fantasy Cabaret performance. Chair of the event, Nancy Temple, along with her co-chair Courtney Rosen, welcomed the crowd and Linda Pedian (of American Airlines, the Lyric’s official airline) was the raffle sponsor. (Allison Alexander was Raffle Chairman.) For the first time, Lyric Young Professionals joined in the festivities and enjoyed an exclusive Russian-themed dinner in The Sarah and Peer Pedersen Room by Jewell Events Catering. This LYP event was chaired by Aleksandra Efimova, who had this to say: “As a LYP gala chair and being born in St. Petersburg, Russia, it was a true honor to share the beauty and richness of Russian culture with the gala guests. This event was another important step to strengthen understanding, communication and interest between the U.S. and Russia—something I strongly and passionately believe in.” Other evening sponsors included Guild Board President David Ormesher (whose company, Closerlook, was the presenting sponsor), Donna Van Eekeren, Richard and Susan Kiphart, Elaine and Allan Muchin, Maura Ann McBreen, Bob Finke and Alan Schriesheim among others. Also seen in the crowd were Meg Caswell (a recent HGTV "Design Star" winner) as well as Illinois State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. The evening ended on a sweet note with Blommer Chocolate, e.leaven Food Company, Katherine Anne Confections, Sprinkles Cupcakes and Terry’s Toffee providing dessert treats. All of the Lyric singers stayed around for the after-party taking pix of each other while dancing to Ken Arlen’s Indigo. The Fantasy evening raised more than $470,000 for Lyric programming.

The 20th anniversary party for Thodos Dance Chicago was a return to the roaring ‘20s at their annual Gala on January 28th at the Cultural Center. Legendary Broadway and film veteran, Tony Award-winning choreographer and frequent Thodos collaborator Ann Reinking mixed and mingled with more than 250 of her Chicago fans and the company’s top supporters as Honorary Chair. The evening raised more than $85K for the non-profit Thodos Dance Chicago, a 20-year-old contemporary dance company. One of the evening’s most exciting revelations was the announcement that “Beneath the White City Lights: The Making of an American Ballet Story” by Emmy Award-winning producer Chris Olsen, a half-hour documentary about the making of TDC’s current signature dance, “The White City: Chicago’s Columbian Exposition of 1893,” co-choreographed by Reinking and Thodos in 2010, would make its broadcast debut on WTTW-TV, Channel 11 on Thursday, February 23 at 10:30 p.m. The evening also included a surprise video tribute to founder Melissa Thodos, “20 Years in 20 Minutes,” as well as the always popular “Dancing with the Thodos Stars,” an inspiring performance by the Thodos/Menomonee Club Youth Ensemble, pre-dinner cabaret music courtesy of Tommy Hensel and Dan Stetzel, dancing to the Swing Assembly orchestra plus a sit-down dinner, silent auction and a wine roulette. If you haven’t seen this company perform, then you are missing out on some incredibly dedicated and talented dancers. (Stay tuned for more exciting Thodos news in my next blogazine!)

Common Threads will be hosting its first Bright Threads event on Sunday, March 11th at the James Hotel. The benefit will be hosted by Gail Simmons, “Top Chef” judge and Food & Wine magazine director, and will include a chance to attend an intimate VIP book signing and cocktail hour with Gail before the start of the main event. This party will be a seated family-style coursed dinner served on communal tables with the CT Small Threads working alongside the participating chefs to prep, cook and serve. VIP tickets are $500 and general admission tickets are $250. To purchase tickets and for more info, please email Eleanor@commonthreads.org or call 312.329.2501.

The Annie B. Brown Foundation will host an inaugural Gospel Concert on Thursday, March 29th, during Colon Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness of the benefits of colon cancer screenings. Proceeds raised will be donated to the Loretto Hospital Foundation to carry out screenings and educate people on the risks of this disease. The program, which will be emceed by Dr. Sandy Goldberg at Biagio’s at 4242 N. Central, will include a silent auction, dinner and performances by church choirs as well as Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Darius Brooks. For tickets and more info, please visit www.abbfoundation.org or call 630.765.2886.

Hal Rubenstein, fashion director
of InStyle magazine, will have a busy two days when he is in town on March 13th and 14th. Dusty Stemer and Toni Canada will host a party at Blake, located at 212 W. Chicago Ave., on Tuesday, March 13th, from 4 – 7 p.m., to celebrate Rubenstein’s new book, “100 Unforgettable Dresses.” (RSVP to 312.202.0047.) The following day, Toni, Dusty and Nena Ivon will host a conversation with Hal for the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum as he discusses his book and the Fall 2012 collections from the runways of NY, Paris and Milan. This event will be moderated by Susanna Negovan at the Casino, located at195 E. Delaware, beginning at 11:30 am. Tickets are $75. Please RSVP to Wendy Schiller at 312.799.2113.

Congrats to civic leader Jerry Roper for being honored by Mayor Rahm Emanuel with the Chicago Gateway Green Urbs in Horto (city in a garden) Award for his commitment to the greening and beautification of Chicago. The event raised more than $1.1 million for a nine-mile Kennedy Expressway Enhancement Project. As President and CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and a founding member of Gateway Green, Roper led the formation of Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center, an affiliate of the Chamber. The Governor proclaimed the Kennedy/Edens Expressway Junction the Gerald J. Roper Gateway and the Mayor proclaimed January 25th as “Gerald J. Roper Day.” He is also known as an outspoken advocate of public transportation, including aviation, rapid transit and high-speed rail. His aviation advocacy includes service on the National Commission to Ensure Consumer Choice and Information in the Aviation Industry as an appointee of House Speaker Dennis Hastert in 2002. He is also a founding member of Business Leaders for Transportation, which focuses on the various forms of transit and transportation that businesses and their employees use every day. Congrats Jerry and thanks for your dedication to this beautiful city!

Huge congrats to Nina and Bob Mariano (Roundy’s and Mariano’s Fresh Market) who will be ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Friday morning! Too cool for words but I tried!

And finally, a big thank you to CS Magazine for the full page feature about Watch312.com in this month’s issue! And thanks to amazing photographer Anthony Tahlier for his expertise!

Well, that’s it for this week and I hope your team won the Super Bowl! And, did we like Madonna? As far as commercials, my favorites were the Audi vampires and the little dog, “Here, Weego,” for Bud Light…but then you know I’m a sucker for doggie commercials. I especially loved the Facebook shout out at the end for rescue dogs…nice!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats are also in order for author Beth Aldrich! Her new book, “Real Moms Love to Eat,” received rave reviews recently at Michigan Shore Club in Wilmette. (Pic by Mila Samokhina.)