Tag Archives: Linda Johnson Rice

CHICAGO’S LITERARY AWARDS, HOLIDAY HOT SPOTS, COOL DECORATING TIPS, VIRTUAL TRIUMPHS AND MORE!

Plus: Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy for Infant Welfare Society; Cooking with Sarah and Kerry for Pitch In; WINGS' virtual "Sweet Home Chicago" party; Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm; Frosty's Holiday Pop-Up Hotel (the first and only); Albany Park unites with lights;  CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up; The Drake Hotel's homage to Princess Diana; Top designers share tips/tricks for holiday decorating; Jim Peterik and the Ides of March (FREE) Christmas show; Kehoe Designs makes Christmas Merry & Bright for the needy; Shaun and Joseph's towering holiday gift giving idea; Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman; National Jingle Bell Day from Chicago Star Media (JOIN US!); Porchlight Music Theatre's "Burning Bluebeard"; Playboy remembers its Playmates at Christmas; Ruth Page Center's virtual Nutcracker; Chicago Light's "Gala of Hope at Home"; GREAT toy drive list; Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN"; Special thanks to Sylvia, Anna, Robert, Thomas, Steve, Fred and Hannah; This & That; Fun videos and SOOO much more!

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Isabel Wilkerson, Carl Sandburg Literary Award recipient.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation has hosted an elaborate Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner for the past 20 years, the last being in 2019 with an extravagant affair at the UIC Forum where over 1000 guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner at tables loaded with books from featured authors and even the authors themselves joining guests at their tables. This year, it was a little different with a virtual event but it was certainly no less exciting. Longtime host Bill Kurtis opened the hour-long event seated in an easy chair in a cozy virtual library. He presented speakers Bob Wislow (CPLF chair), Linda Johnson Rice (CPL chair), Brenda Langstraat (CPLF president), Dave Casper (CPLF vice chair, U.S. CEO BMO Financial Group) and moderator Scott Simon (host NPR Saturday Weekend Edition). Kurtis spoke about past literary giants who had been honored at this prestigious event like Kurt Vonnegut, Margaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie and Toni Morrison. He introduced this year's three honorees: Nate Marshall (21st Century Honoree), Donna La Pietra

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Donna La Pietra, the first CPLF Civic Award winner.

 

(Inaugural Civic Award) and Isabel Wilkerson (Carl Sandburg Literary Award). Mayor Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman served as honorary chairs. Langstraat spoke about the successful pivots the Library has been forced to make due to the pandemic like shifting to virtual programming, creating over 100K grab-and-go activity kits and virtual story sessions like "Live from the Library", the most successful social media campaign in the Library's history! It featured celebrities with ties to Chicago reading to kids including former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle, Oprah, John C. Reilly, Bonnie Hunt, Gabrielle Union, Common,

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Nate Marshall, CPLF 21st Century honoree.

Chelsea Clinton, the Mayor, Jane Lynch, Michelle Williams and many others. This uber-successful campaign garnered 22 million video views and 800 million impressions with viewers tuning in from over 37 countries! Wislow then introduced the 21st Century honoree, Nate Marshall, a rapper, poet, playwright, educator, community-engaged artist and more. Marshall was raised in West Pullman and is the grandson of a Chicago Public librarian. Nate said he was "forged in the farthest reaches of this city" and that his family has had a presence here for a century. He urged viewers to support the library where he was

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Former president Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle appeared in video for "Live from the Library."

"nurtured" and ended his acceptance speech with his poem titled "Imagine" dedicated to all those who influenced him. Video congrats came from Natalie Y. Moore (a fellow 21st Century honoree, 2017), Helen

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Event host Bill Kurtis and his Donna La Pietra, Civic Award honoree.

Zell, Dr. Eve L. Ewing (2019 21st Century honoree) and Mary Ellen Messmer (CPL Acting Commissioner). Linda Johnson Rice introduced Donna La Pietra as the inaugural Civic Award honoree calling her "a force." Bob Wislow said, "Donna embodies the spirit of this award." Everyone who knows and loves Donna knows what a perfect

choice she is for this honor. She has been on the CPLF board for over 20 years, invited by

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Gabrielle Union appeared in the presentation from "Live from the Library."

the board's founder and Donna's

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Rap artist Pinqy Ring-After School Matters.

mentor, Cindy Pritzker. Donna, a longtime producer and Emmy Award winner, was also instrumental in the creation of Millennium Park, is active on the boards of many civic organizations, including the Library Foundation, Steppenwolf, Shedd Aquarium and Chicago Botanic Garden to name just a few. She is an avid gardener and land conservationist. There's really not enough space or time to mention all of the ways she has enhanced Chicago and inspired the people who live here, including me, with her unique

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Brenda Langstraat, CPLF president.
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Chef Rick Bayless.

brand of magic. Donna said, "How lucky am I to have found my way to so many of Chicago's nonprofit organizations, who at their hearts, have a desire to serve and at their soul is volunteerism." Congratulatory videos came in from Greg Cameron (CEO Joffrey Ballet), Rick Bayless, Michelle Boone (Navy Pier), Peter Sagal ("Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me"), Jaume Plensa (artist), Justice Anne Burke, Rhona Frazin (past CPLF pres/CEO), Pinqy Ring (rap artist

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Greg Cameron, CEO Joffrey Ballet.

with After School Matters) and artist Nick Cave.

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Linda Johnson Rice, CPLF chair.

Donna dedicated her award to her mentor Cindy Pritzker who she said, "has been her role model for service, for fostering fearlessness, for her visionary thinking, for rewarding the risk-takers and for a wide diverse embrace of people and ideas." Pritzker said of Donna, "When I think of the doers in our wonderful city, the first name that pops up is Donna La Pietra. Nobody can come close. She is Miss Chicago." Isabel Wilkerson,

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Dr. Eve L. Ewing, 2019 21st Century Award recipient.

the Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, was featured

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Dave Casper, U.S. CEO BMO>

in a Q & A with NPR radio's Scott Simon. Wilkerson is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Humanities Medal and is the author of the New York Times bestsellers "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents" and "The Warmth of Other Suns." She spoke about her deeply-researched works that provide insights into America's history and the divides that linger today. She grew up in Washington, D.C. where her father was a Tuskegee Airman. Congrats on this wonderful first virtual Awards event and to all the winners! So inspiring. There is a branch of the Chicago Public Library in all of Chicago's 77 neighborhoods.

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing York Furrier.

Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy were the themes for the Oak Brook Chapter of the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society when they hosted "Home for the Holidays" on December 6. Presented by longtime emcee Alison Rosati (NBC-5), the virtual "Mistletoe Medley" event included fabulous fashions curated by  Tracey Tarantino of ZZAZZ Productions (in a collaboration with Chapter member Marge Tresley)

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Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe.

and a festive home segment from Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula. Alison called the event, "the unofficial start of the festive time of year of giving." Fashion highlights included looks from redE Mas Boutique, York Furrier and Peach Carr Designs,

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Lou Smeja, Oak Brook Chapter President.

all presented by my favorite model Elizabeth McNally Mairs. Alison opened the show welcoming viewers and acknowledging Angel Donors Nives Rizza and Susan Heil. Chapter president Lou Smeja thanked supporters and shared that this event raised over $160,000 for the Infant Welfare Society (and the Angel Harvey Family Health Center) and that the Chapter has donated nearly 9,000 hours of volunteer service in 2020. Tracey reported in from redE Mas Boutique in Hinsdale (36 E.

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Allison Rosati, longtime event emcee (NBC-5).

First St.) where she showed blazer looks that are perfect for Zoom meetings and then it was onto York Furs. York Furrier (located at 107 N. York St. in Elmhurst) is celebrating 89 years in business and has

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Designer Peach Carr, the one and onlyl.

supported nonprofits in the community since its inception. Owners Kathy and John Rezny greet guests like they're family members and the selection of furs, outerwear and unique accessories is one of the best in the city. For this presentation, glam luxe were the watch words as Elizabeth swished about in a beautiful variety of furs and handbags. Tracey then interviewed Project

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Tracey Tarantino at redE Mas Boutique.

Runway star, designer Peach Carr, a Chicago native, from her private atelier above her home built in 1870. The space was once a hay loft and has now been transformed into Peach's "happy place" with light

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Elegant Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing an outfit from redE Mas Boutique.

wood and lots of windows. Peach recounted her journey to appear on Project Runway where she was hand-selected by style arbiter Tim Gunn. Peach's daughter Molly was the driving force behind this exciting opportunity urging her mother to submit an application. Peach eventually appeared in

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Peach Carr pointing out 3 of her archived designs.

episodes for both Project Runway and Project Runway All-Stars. In a riveting Q & A with Tracey, Peach shared that her collections have always been "about women, for women and made in Chicago." She said she wants women to feel good about themselves

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing Peach Carr's popular "paper doll" dress.

and that all of her pieces are very

stretchy, very easy to wear and forgiving, especially with all of us "eating our way through the pandemic." She said Edie Sedgwick, one of Andy Warhol's Factory superstars, has always been her muse and that she even met Edie's aunt Kyra Sedgwick, at an event where Kyra said to

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Tracey Tarantino at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula.

her, "You're the one who designs for my dead aunt, right?" Peach discussed three of her iconic designs that she keeps in the loft. The first, a black cocktail dress, was part of her first collection following Project Runway. A glamorous, pale peach coat dress was her audition piece and a third look, a red dress designed as an

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing a Peach Carr design.

homage to Chicago, was the first piece she designed following her bad accident. The event concluded with a beautiful segment filmed at Kehoe Designs' Holiday Shoppe, where Tracey spotlighted all the festive offerings there including centerpieces, ornaments, Hanukkah items, trees and more. Congrats to all of these hardworking women who are supporting the Angel Harvey Family Health Center with such devotion. The Center provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for children, adolescents and adults. (More info here!)

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Cooking with Sarah and Kerry Wood for the Wood Family Foundation's Pitch In program.

The Wood Family Foundation hosted a "tasty" virtual fundraiser that involved cooking a holiday dinner with Boka Chef Lee Wolen and Foundation founders Kerry and Sarah Wood. It was a very intimate hour with the Woods Zooming in from their elegant all white kitchen and Chef Wolen from another location to prepare parmesan crusted chicken with butternut squash and

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Laura Muriello, Wood Family Foundation executive director. 

polenta. Sarah and Kerry work as well together in the kitchen as they do in real life raising a family of three, Justin, Katie and Charlie. Laura Muriello, executive director of the Wood Family Foundation, introduced the event along with Abby

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Boka Chef Lee Wolen.

Kritzler, executive director of the Boka Restaurant Group. Lots of supporters shared their dishes during the video presentation including Erin and Shawn Doty, whose smoke detector went off during their efforts. Lol! Young Cooper Smith and his brother asked Kerry "what was the fastest pitch you ever threw", the answer was

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Happy culinary participants.

102 mph! Tom and Cece Ricketts were also cooking along with Chef Wolen and the Woods as well as some mentors in the Foundation's Pitch In program. In its early years, the Foundation

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Young supporters.

sponsored one-time initiatives like coat drives, holiday gift programs as well as funding projects like the playroom at Lurie Children's Hospital. As time wore on, the Woods realized the greater needs in the community and, in 2014, developed an after-school mentoring program

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Sarah and Kerry's tasty finished dish.

that currently serves four communities and is growing. Sarah and Kerry concluded the evening showing their beautiful finished dishes and thanking supporters. She said, "It's a rough year for nonprofits and our organization is still working hard every day for our students, giving them everything they need from essentials to school supplies to support with their learning as well as meeting virtually every week. We couldn't do this without events like this." Here's to a lot more success Kerry and Sarah! Thanks for your dedication to Chicago's kids! (Learn more about this much needed nonprofit here!)

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Ralph Covert, of Ralph's World, performs at WING's "Sweet Home Chicago" event.

WINGS (Women in Need Growing Stronger) took its popular "Sweet Home Chicago" fundraiser virtual on December 13. In the past, these Sunday brunch fundraisers were held at the Four Seasons with a room full of laughing, dancing kids intent on creating the very best gingerbread houses. This year, supporters could order gingerbread house kits to be delivered to

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Rita and John Canning.

their homes as they viewed this 17th delightful (virtual) event. One component that has remained the same though was the joyous, kid-friendly music delivered

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Rebecca Darr, executive director WINGS Program.

by Ralph Covert of Ralph's World, a children's musical group that has been a part of this event for the past 11 years. Ralph opened the event Sesame Street-style with a pair of adorable puppets. The event even had a little Mister Rogers' "won't you be my neighbor" feel to it too as Ralph interacted with the puppets and Rebecca Darr, WINGS Program CEO. Darr thanked viewers and

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Adorable event participants!

encouraged them to "embrace this fun time and forget about everything happening in the world." She thanked longtime, dedicated event founders/supporters Rita and John Canning. Early on

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The late Rich Martin, his wife Donna and their amazing comfort dogs.

Rita realized there were no domestic violence shelters near her home so she decided to build one with the first safe house being built in Chicago's northwest suburbs. Since then, the Cannings have helped raise millions to support those affected by domestic violence. Rita and John appeared on-camera from their home and announced that the event raised over $700,000, making it the largest fundraiser of the year. Lots of cute kiddies appeared onscreen dancing in their jammies to Ralph's "Alphabet Song." Sadly, it was announced that Rich Martin (and his wife Donna),

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Dancing to Ralph's World!

whose comfort dogs were a key part of these annual events, had passed away recently due to Covid. In the past, his Golden Retrievers could be seen lounging around the Four Seasons ballroom as kids petted and relaxed around them. The event closed with these encouraging words from Rebecca. "Please know that your support is helping people transcend their life of violence to a life of happiness. No pandemic is going to stop us." (WINGS info here). Currently, WINGS provides 33 safe housing options in and around Chicagoland.

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IMG_8992 (2)You can still find a LOT of holiday cheer at Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm. This pop-up experience is located at 1455 N. Elston in Goose Island. It's decorated with over 1 million lights and dozens of Insta-worthy photo opps. You can pick out a perfect tree, visit with Santa, get lost in a Christmas

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Candid Candace TV team Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Troy Mairs and Elizabeth McNally Mairs.

Tree Trail/Maze and enjoy donuts and hot chocolate as you stroll along to the sounds of the season. (Covid guidelines in place, closes January 10 and you must have a res/ticket before arrival. Details here). I hope you enjoy my latest video from Candid Candace TV (below) with special thanks to the production Dream Team, Troy Mairs, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Elizabeth McNally Mairs, for making it happen! Not a subscriber, please sign up here!)

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Frosty's Pop-Up Christmas Hotel.

And, if you have out of town visitors who love the holidays, IMG_8818steer them to Chicago's first and only pop-up Christmas hotel, Frosty's, at 221 N. Columbus Ave. Yes, it IS the Radisson Blu but, for this brief moment in time it has been transformed into a magical place sprinkled with loads of holiday cheer! Even the rooms are decorated with trees! Dogs and cats are welcome and only registered guests will be allowed access to the hotel. (Details here).

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Albany Park decor.

A little bit of holiday magic is also happening in the 4100 block of N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park where neighbors

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Chuck enjoying N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park.

have erected endless, lighted "tunnels of love." What began last year between neighbors George Heitz and Ignacio Martinez, has caught on with others along the blocks who wanted to help bring an appreciation for the community. The results are dramatic! (Video here!)

For 20 years, CircuitMOM Productions has been producing world class experiential events led by Matthew Harvat and Edwin Martinez. This year, they have jumped into the holiday

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CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up at 409 N. Wolcott.

spirit with all four feet with "CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up" at 409 N. Wolcott. The excitement began on December 9 after they transformed their venue into a winter wonderland. The pop-up offers 8 unique holiday environments where you

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With CircuitMOM's Edwin Martinez and Matthew Harvat.

can capture special memories with family, friends and pets, all in a Covid safe environment. Details here: Kids (Under 10) – $6 per (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal); Adult – $12 per adult (4 people minimum); Professional Pictures – $45 ( Pictures in 3 sets, will receive digital copies, payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal); Prints – $20 (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal). (For tickets or more info, click here!) _______________________________________________________________________

IMG_9216I was able to cross something off my bucket list recently with a visit to the iconic and historic Drake Hotel's magnificent Princess Diana Suite, formerly the hotel's Presidential Suite. It was renamed after Princess Diana's

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Part of the luxurious Princess Diana Suite.

historic, and only, visit to Chicago in June, 1996. Watch for a Chicago Star Media all-access video coming soon of my interview with Damien McArdle, the Drake's GM, who shares fun-filled details about the Princess' visit and a fabulous package they're offering in the suite now! Trivia question, do you know why the hotel's hallways are so wide? To be able to accommodate two women in period ball gowns walking side by side. (Now, take a suite peek here!)

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Greg Hyder, the King of Christmas.

I know most of us have already decorated for the holidays, but I quizzed some of my favorite event designers on their favorite tips and tricks. Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event, loves filling her trees with fresh flowers,

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Debi Lilly's beautiful, flower-filled Christmas tree (photo by Tiffaney Childs)

peonies and hydrangeas and mixing them in with faux flowers. She also suggests styling a winter wonderland champagne bar topped with flowers in silver vases or mercury glass. She loves gifts wrapped in velvet bows with cheeky tags and adding luxe to wrapping paper with suede tassels, Swiss silk double face ribbon and tiny pom poms hot glued onto craft paper. Vintage bottle brush trees are another favorite item to

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Michelle Durpetti's elegant holiday table.

decorate with as are fresh pine boughs. Michelle Durpetti, another fabulous wedding planner, event designer and co-owner of Gene & Georgetti's restaurant, says don't limit yourself to traditional holiday colors. Consider jewel tones and don't be afraid of

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Greg Hyder and Jim Smith's ornament-filled chandelier.

adding texture to your holiday table. Think velvet table linens with gorgeous glassware, Shantung napkins with wooden chargers. She loves using her mom's (Marion

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Ramsey Prince decorates a gorgeous holiday table. (Maison du Prince, 566 Chestnut, Winnetka)

Durpetti) collection of salt and pepper shakers, flatware and china that she picked up in her travels. She said, "This way, the table provides direct access to memory lane as a conversation starter." Event planner Derrick Taylor says "don't get caught up in commercial fads. Christmas is really about feeling. Collect ornaments that tell your story." Greg Hyder helps plan plenty of seasonal decor at

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Debi Lilly with a locally sourced tree.

  the Peninsula Hotel but for his own home, with partner Jim Smith, he likes to go a little more over the top. He's as much a fan of Christmas as I am (if this is even possible?!) and he decorates every nook and cranny. In their new, multi-

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Debi Lilly's pastel bottle brush trees add a charming touch.

level home, he has plenty to work with but is conscious of his carbon footprint. He repurposes decor to suit the holiday. For instance, when Halloween is over, the bright orange pumpkins are transformed into silver and gold works of art that adorn their front steps. Greg loves using ornaments in unexpected places too like hanging from chandeliers or worked into vignettes for the mantle. He's a great collector of vintage items and decorates with traditional as well as modern

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Meet Sookie Hyder-Smith. Finally, a home for the holidays (rescued from PAWS by Greg and Jim).

elements. I love all of these friends' styles and know their homes are filled with so much holiday cheer! For Chuck and me, we LOVE to decorate and, most years, leave our Christmas tree and decorations up way past their due date. I can't stand to part with it.  Actually, I keep a curio cabinet up year-round filled with vintage Christmas items along with a 4-foot-tall Santa that I bought with my Mom at Marshall Field's. A giant, lighted wreath adorns our antique liquor cabinet (that I bought in high school for $45 on layaway). These are things I just can't part with, they provide way too many happy memories. Fortunately, Chuck feels the same (I think).

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Kehoe Designs helping those less fortunate during the holidays.

Kudos to Tom Kehoe! His Kehoe Designs is working with local nonprofits to gift fully decorated Christmas trees to those in need of a little extra holiday cheer. Working with the American Heart Association, HIRE 360 and NAMI Chicago, the partners have identified recipients who have had particularly challenging experiences this year. The first tree went to Angelo Panzica, who came down with Covid after being hired by HIRE 360. Thanks for all you do in our communities Tom!

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Joseph Szmczak and Shaun Rajah.

A great gift idea brought to you by Shaun Rajah and Joseph Szmczak,, Holiday Happy Hour Towers! Stylishly curated bundles of sweets, savories and holiday scents for Christmas and NYE that come in beautiful, signature holiday packaging! (Details here!)  

I want to give a shout-out to my fellow columnist Thomas

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The uber-talented Thomas O'Gorman of Skyline newspaper.

O'Gorman, the delightful, around-town writer for the Skyline newspaper. In my wildest dreams, I could never write as good as he does. His work is sheer poetry and his knowledge of the arts, history, Chicago and even gourmet cooking runs very, very deep. I love all of his columns and never miss them but, his most recent one, "Who would ever want to be king,"  truly captured the spirit of the holidays and Chicago in its present state. It is a must-read! Keep up the great work Thomas! YOU are a Chicago treasure! (Scroll down his Facebook page to his column here!)  

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National Jingle Bell Day presented by Chicago Star Media, Saturday, December 19, 6 pm CST!

I'm so excited and hope you can join me on Saturday, December 19 at 6 pm CST. Chicago Star Media has come up with a really BIG idea to bring the city and, hopefully, the country together for National Jingle Bell Day! The concept for NJBD was born after the Jingle Bell Day Flier Image Fileresurgence of Covid-19 in Illinois caused another wave of shutdowns this fall that has extended into the holidays. Elaine Hyde, publisher/editor of Chicago Star Media, created the event after being inspired by the community sing-a-longs that took place in Chicago earlier in the year. So, on Dec.19, at 6 pm CST, wherever you are, indoors, outdoors, in your car or in your workplace, videotape yourself singing Jingle Bells and post to social media with the hashtag #jinglebellday2020! OR, come join us around the Great Tree near the Wrigley building on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 6 pm! Bring your bells, we will be live-streaming! (For more info, visit Chicago Star Media here and let's SING!)

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Porchlight Music Theatre announces its latest virtual offering, the holiday return of The Ruffians’ Burning Bluebeard! Burning Bluebeard, now in its ninth year, was created and performed by the critically acclaimed theatre troupe The Ruffians. A magical story, told with music, clowning, tumbling, acrobatics and dance, Burning Bluebeard is a physical-performance phenomena inspired by the true story of Chicago’s former Iroquois Theatre and the unforgettable events that resulted in tragedy for 600 theatergoers at Christmastime in 1903. "A vaudevillian musical delight with a story that excavates the poetic and poignant remains of a piece of Chicago’s rich history and will leave you with an unforgettable experience." (Details here, through January 3!)

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Chicago’s oldest Nutcracker tradition is transformed into a one-of-a-kind, immersive, virtual experience featuring (pre-recorded) dance at the historic Ruth Page Center for the Arts located in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Streaming now, join the Stahlbaum’s at their holiday gathering. Experience Clara’s dreams of sugar plums, rogue bon bons, impish peppermints and a pine forest dusted with snow. Peek into Drosselmeyer's Workshop and the Kingdom of Sweets to see the Sugar Plum Fairy dance with her friends. Visions: A Nutcracker Experience gives everyone a chance to see The Ruth Page Center for the Arts as never before and an opportunity to celebrate the season in a whole new way. (Through Dec. 20, details here!)   

Chicago Lights will host its "Gala of Hope, at Home", on Friday, March 5 at 7 pm. This virtual event will benefit Chicago Lights Gala of Hope at Home Mar. 5 the life-changing and youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights and the community support efforts of the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Details here!

And, it's not too late to donate to the holiday toy drives going on across Chicagoland! Here's a great list comprised by Block Club Chicago!

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Nadia Lee Cohen holds copy of her first book, WOMEN, a sell out in its first run!

I'm so excited about Nadia Lee Cohen's first book, WOMEN. British-born, Los Angeles-based photographer

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Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN."

Nadia's WOMEN, her IDEA-published photo book debut, is the result of six years of work and features 100 "extra unordinary portraits." And I am one of them. Pinch me. It opens with Mick Jagger's daughter, Georgia May. The first run, a limited edition of 1000, is already sold out! They are taking orders now for the second edition here.

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Ides of MarchMy favorite rock legend, Jim Peterik, will be offering his 25th

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Rock legend Jim Peterik, the Ides of March.

annual "Sharing Christmas with the Ides of March" on Saturday, Dec. 19, 8 pm, CST. This live-streamed event (from his studio!) will be available for FREE (Jim's Christmas gift to his fans) on youtube and facebook! (Details here)!

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Hannah Stanley and Fred Weintraub–WGCO radio.

The year is coming to a close and this seems to be about the

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Anna Davlantes–WGN radio host. (John Reilly photo).

end of virtual fundraisers until next year. I've been traveling around town gathering up as much holiday cheer as I possibly can to share with you and it's been a gold mine out there. People are celebrating and decorating in ways I've never seen before. An event designer friend of

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Sylvia Perez–Fox 32 Chicago.

mine told me stores like Michael's, Target, Home Goods, Home Depot and others, were sold out of Christmas decor almost before they were stocked! I'm thrilled to be able to find so many media outlets

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Robert Feder's column.

covering places to go and things to do for the holidays too. It was a thrill to present my Holiday Hot List (read it here on Chicago Star Media) and more fun news from around town with the one and only Sylvia Perez (Fox 32 Chicago), Anna Davlantes (WGNRadio) and Fred Weintraub and Hannah Stanley (WGCO radio's "The Hannah & Fred Show," listen here!) I loved chatting about what I know and love best, CHICAGO, and I'm so lucky to have such wonderfully supportive media friends! And a special thanks to Robert Feder and Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman for including me in their must-read columns too! (Watch my fun interview with Sylvia below!) Love and thanks to ALL!

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Playboy Christmas gifts--mask and bath bomb--received 12-14-20Playboy never forgets its Playmates. For years and years, Hefner always sent Christmas gifts to every one of his Playmates. Gifts included everything from branded clothing (PB backpacks) to jewelry to customized cosmetics (think "Playmate Pink" blush)! I'm so happy to see his tradition continue! Thanks dear Playboy for

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Steve Ewert photo.

never forgetting those who brought you to the party!

Special thanks to photographer Steve Ewert who included me in his "Portraits of Successful Women" campaign. It's an honor to appear alongside alongside Brandis Friedman, Dominique Jordan, Lily Liu, Laura Chavez, Kate Sullivan and others. Thanks so much for including me Steve! (Read my story here, if you want, lol)

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BoatsThe spirit of the season has not been dampened for me even with Covid and all the problems we're facing right now. If anything, I'm feeling even more hopeful. I was chatting with a very knowledgeable friend who's in retail recently and he really opened my eyes with his E148246d341b93843b6eb8c9a729175d interesting take on things. He said, "Can you imagine what it's going to be like when this is all over and people are safe and free to travel again? We will be swamped here in Chicago with people from the Midwest and across the country finally anxious to get out and about! The stores, hotels and restaurants will be packed. It will be like after Prohibition!" I had never thought of things this way but I think he is absolutely right! I know I will be jumping out of my sneakers (no more heels in the near future) to do all of the things I haven't been able to enjoy for all these many months. I will feel like Secretariat breaking free of the starting gate! So, I do see light at the end of our long, dark tunnel. And I just can't wait to celebrate (with you)!  

Have a Happy, Healthy, Safe Holiday Season and a Very Merry Christmas! Here's to a big, bright 2021 for us all!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S.  I didn't know they could read?!

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Music, Television, Travel

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

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

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Fashion and business phenom Diane Von Furstenberg

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

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Kristina O'Neill, WSJ Magazine, editor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

Officer Wazny and his wife Annie

Officer Adam Wazny and wife Annie.

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

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CPD Honor Guard and Bagpipers.

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

Robin Robinson  Superintendent Eddy Johnson  and his wife  Nakia Fenner Johnson

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

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

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

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

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

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Beth Heller  Taylor Kinney  Carrie and Terry Meghie

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

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

Ryan and Kelly Dempster

Ryan and Kelly Dempster.

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

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

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

Adam Hoge  Charles Tillman  Ryan Baker

Adam Hoge, Charles Tillman and Ryan Baker.

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

Owl Give Winner Carrie Prather  Ryan Dempster

Owl Give Winner Carrie Prather with Ryan Dempster.

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

Alayna and D.C. Crenshaw.

Alayna and D.C. Crenshaw.

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

Ed and Karyn Kruschka

Ed and Karyn Kruschka.

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

Ryan Chiaverini  Roe Conn  Val Warner

Ryan Chiaverini, Roe Conn and Val Warner.

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

Tali Kogan  Jason Fishbein  Carrie Meghie

Tali Kogan, Jason Fishbein and Carrie Meghie.

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

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Happy BD Leslie!

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

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

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

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Linda Johnson Rice and Marko Iglendza.

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

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Elegant decor at Marchesa.

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

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Don Hindman, Trish Rooney, Leslie and Les Coney.

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

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

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

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

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

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

30 - Rich Regan  Patti Eylar  Charlie Gardner

Rich Regan, honorees Patti Eylar and Charlie Gardner.

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

2 - Anais Buneo  April Daly  Amelia Silva

Anais Buneo, April Daley and Amelia Silva.

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

Paul Marinaro  photo by Brett Beiner

Paul Marinaro performs.

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

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

Diana Harris and Dr. Linda Curtis O'Bannon.

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

18 - Patti Eylar  Randy Duncan

Honoree Patti Eylar and Randy Duncan

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

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

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

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

3Arts Awardees_Photo by Robin Subar

2019 3Arts Awardees

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

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

2019 3Arts Awardee and Community Award Recipient Ivelisse Diaz.

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

Nejla Yatkin_Photo by Robin Subar

Nejla Yatkin performs.

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

Ayodele Drum and Dance_Photo by Robin Subar

Ayodele Drum and Dance team.

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

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

2018 3Arts Awardee Ben LaMar Gay performs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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MyEyeDr's Kat Christy and Sofia Damianos.

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

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Record-breaking crowds for this year's parade!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Karen and David Dahlquist.

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

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Dr. Michael Musacchio and Dr. Najah Musacchio. 

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

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

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

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Kenneth Ludwig shop.

There are lots of beautiful Christmas gift shops around town

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Brimfield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Beth Robinson and Debra Hermann.

Kathleen Casey inspired guests with the foundation’s

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

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

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Beautiful room at the Skokie Country Club.

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

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Paula Kahn and pantomime

Paula Kahn and friend.

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

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

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

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

Jason and Erin Pritzker

Jason and Erin Pritzker.

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

Dena Perry and Board Chair Jeffery Perry

Dena Perry and Board Chair Jeffery Perry.

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

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Israel "Izzy" Idonije introduces FBRK Impact House.

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

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Izzy and the Team.

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

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

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

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Izzy–Fired up for Philanthropy!

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

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With Laurie Dimakos and Kelly Speck at reception following announcement.

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

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Hard hat tour with Izzy.

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

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

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

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

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With Mamie at RL.

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

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Sheryl Dyer at her joyous bridal shower.

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

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

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

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

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

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Frank "Gator" Robb and Betsy Shepherd.

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

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Art Norman and Deloris Jordan.

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

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Joe Monastero, soon to be honored.

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

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Adrienne Weiss Martha Melman and Molly Melman

Adrienne Weiss, Martha Melman and Molly Melman.

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

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

Board members James Gilliam and Diana Palomar.

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

Altgeld Youth Leadership Program participants

Altgeld Youth Leadership Program participants.

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

The Tony Hunter Family

The Tony Hunter Family.

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

ABC 7 Anchor Alan Krashesky emceed the Mpower the Night Gala

ABC 7 anchor Alan Krashesky served as emcee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ATC's Board of Directors.

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

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

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

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Chef Art Smith in Parade Mag.

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

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

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

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Part of balcony decor.

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

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Come on in!

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

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

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

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

 

 

 

 

   

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

THE CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE: A FLAIR FOR FASHION AND FUNDRAISING

PLUS: Adler Planetarium's Celestial Ball; Step Up's Shine & Dine; Melody's BIG book launch; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab's Art in Motion; Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic; Navy Pier's Pumpkin Lights; Jack's Pumpkin Glow; 900 Shops' beautiful Fleurs de Villes; The Symphony Ball; Chicago Botanic Garden's stunning Lightscape; Cirque's first holiday show at Chicago Theatre; Making an Impact–Havana Nights; Muslim American Leadership Alliance gala; Lynn Sage Fall Benefit Luncheon; Joffrey Ballet WB hosts Jane Eyre Luncheon; Chicago Public Library Foundation Dinner honors literary heavyweights; Michelle's Masterclass; Dancing with the Giordano Stars; Friends of La Rabida Awards Celebration; Urban Prep hosts Aces UP!; White Pine Fall Fest; Steppenwolf's GREAT LEAP; Chef Williams' Soul Crab Chicago; Randolph Street Market hosts Editor's Choice for Charity; Happy Birthday dear Chuck; This & That; Darling videos and so much MORE!

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Honorees Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz.

It was the most successful fundraiser yet, raising over $100,000, for The Chicago Lighthouse! FLAIR 2019 was held at the Drake Chicago on September 13 and honored Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz. The afternoon fashion show, "Visions of Elegance", was

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Co-chairs Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine with Lighthouse president Dr. Janet Szlyk

expertly co-chaired for the third year by Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine. The record crowd, nearly 250, got a first look at fall during the runway show presented by ZZAZZ Productions and included some of Chicago's leading retailers: Anne Fontaine, Carlisle, Contessa Bottega, Frances Heffernan, Mira Couture, my stylist @Macy's and redE. During a reception before the show, attendees enjoyed a silent

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Fashion show producer Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions)

auction in the luxurious Palm Court with pop-up shops from Chanel, Chicago Plastic Surgery Center, Jen Hansen Jewelry, L'Occitane, Lex's Lotion, The RealReal and Trish McEvoy. Local notables walking the runway included Kathy Piccone, Paula Borg, Sherry Abrahams, Dr.

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Kim Gleeson and Cheri Lawrence.

Stacie McClane, Bobbi Panter, Dori Wilson, Melissa Babcock, Michael Caputo, Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul, Mark Olley, Chilli Pepper, Kim Gleeson, Cheri Lawrence, Sharyl Mackey, Jean and Alex Antoniou, Holly Twardak, Cathy Bartholomay, the darling co-chairs and so many more! Baton Show Lounge star Chilli Pepper vamped it up

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The Lighthouse's Sandy Murillo and Learnus Ross wearing mystylist@Macy's.

on the runway wearing a short fox coat and showing off those legs that she's so famous for! It was my honor to introduce Cheryl and Ron whose philanthropy in our communities stretch far and wide. Ron is chair of the board of directors for ELKAY Manufacturing and

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The star of the show, child piano prodigy Avett Ray!

supports charities in the fields of health, education and animal protection. They are both cancer survivors and are deeply committed to the

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Alex Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou.

University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center. Cheryl was raised in a philanthropic family and in 1981 founded one of the first shelters for battered women in the U.S. The program opened with Lighthouse president Dr. Janet Szlyk welcoming guests. She shared part of the reason why the honorees support the Lighthouse–it's because they love the fact that the nonprofit never turns anyone away because of an

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With Mark Olley, Chilli Pepper, Kathy Piccone, Jennifer Sutton, Michael Caputo and Stanley Paul.

inability to pay. Szlyk spotlighted three children who have benefited because of the Lighthouse's support–Matilde, 4, was born without irises and receives braille and rehabilitation training. Austin has multiple disabilities, he's both blind and autistic, and came to the Lighthouse in the "fetal position." He's now an engaged

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Michelle Baker (L, wearing Mira Couture) with Dori Wilson in Contessa Bottega.

and "engaging" teenager! And lastly, Blaine who came from a large family of limited means. His inclusion in the First Jobs Program brought him to a permanent job at Walgreen's! The highlight of the event was YouTube sensation Avett Ray, 7, who's blind in one eye and visually impaired in the other. He's an amazing piano prodigy who has appeared on The

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Holly Twardak and Helena Kogiones.

Today Show, among many others. His rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody (that he played that day,(see it here) brought him over 6 million views on YouTube. From the moment his mom, Sara Moore, introduced him, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand. The first song, he said, was "for the ladies" as he belted out Stevie

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With Tracey Tarantino and The Lighthouse's Carly Englander and Sandy Murillo.

Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely" in a surprisingly adult voice! There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Mom Susan said he's been playing melodies since he was 11 months old! The audience also heard from Sandy Murillo, Lighthouse Development and Media maven. She lost her sight as a baby and the Chicago Lighthouse was there to support her and her family. This nonprofit, founded in 1906, serves the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities. The FLAIR program was created in 2000 and supports children's and teen's program at The Lighthouse. (For more info, please click here) (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

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"One Giant Leap" author Charles Fishman (L) and Captain James A. Lovell Jr.

The Adler Planetarium Women’s Board hosted Celestial Ball, the Adler’s biggest fundraising event of the year which also celebrated its 25th anniversary. Held on September 7, the gala raised nearly $1.8 million to support the

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Meg Sauer (Adler's WB pres.), Pradip Patiath (Adler Board of Trustees chair), and Linda Jojo (of United Airlines- the 2019 Corporate Partner Honoree)

Adler and its many exciting programs.  Event chair Lilly Farahnakian (Global Chief Compliance Officer at GCM Grosvenor), Meg Sauer (Adler WB president) and Pradip Patiath (Board of Trustees chair) welcomed

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Laura Glick, Lisa Bertagna and Mihra Seta.

approximately 600 guests. During the evening, guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail reception featuring interactive moments from key Adler programs and a seated dinner followed by dancing and a jazz lounge, complete with cosmic visualizations projected onto the dome in the Grainger Sky Theater. This year’s theme, The Future is Now, perfectly encapsulated the 50th anniversary of the Moon

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Pamela Vargas and William Weinstein.

landing and the Moonshot that got us there 50 years ago. "In the future, technology may be better, people may be smarter and solutions to our most difficult problems may be within reach, but a future like that doesn’t just happen. We have to build it, starting today. NASA’s Apollo team didn’t wait for the future or for a more convenient time to attempt the impossible. We won't either. The future is

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David Silverman and Lilly Farahnakian (2019 event chair).

the choices we make, the moonshots we take, the work we do together. The future is us. The future is now," said Farahnakian. As part of this year’s Celestial Ball dinner program, the Adler welcomed Apollo 8 and Apollo 13 astronaut Captain James A. Lovell, Jr. and One Giant Leap author Charles Fishman for an in-depth conversation touching on personal stories from on the ground and in the sky during the Apollo missions of the 1960’s. The conversation illuminated the triumphs and setbacks that unfolded in the global race to the Moon. The Adler also recognized United Airlines as its 2019 Corporate Partner Award honoree. (Photos by figMEDIA and David Miller)

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Niyah Simpson, a senior at Carl Schurz HS, played the viola during the reception.

More than fifteen local restaurants and culinary partners came together in support of mentorship at Shine & Dine on August 8. Benefiting Step Up, an after-school and weekend mentorship program for high school girls living or going to school in under-served communities, the event attracted over 500 guests. The IMG_0002[1] nonprofit honored alumna Ahja Howard for inspiring women and girls to fulfill their potential. Howard, a member of Step Up’s Class of 2016, shared her moving story during the event’s brief program and is scheduled to IMG_0055graduate as part of the  University of Illinois Springfield’s Class of 2020. During the evening, guests enjoyed tasting stations from Chicago’s top eateries that included Boka, Do-Rite Donuts, Eden, ENO Wine

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Step Up alumnae Aminata Bah and Paris Scales chat with Whitney Capps.

Bar, Honey Butter Fried Chicken, Le Colonial, Madison and Rayne, Michael Jordan’s Steak House, Nacional 27, The Signature Room, Sprinkles, Troquet River North, and Wow Bao. Beverage partners include IMG_0013Beam Suntory and MillerCoors. Now in its second decade of service, Step Up was founded in 1998 by Kaye Popofsky Kramer and offers mentorship programs for high school girls in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Dallas. The Chicago chapter reached approximately 500 girls from seven high school partners across the city. The event raised over $275,000 for programming.

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T. Shawn Taylor and Melody Spann Cooper–co-authors of "The Girlfriend's Guide to Closing the Deal"

I'd be hard pressed to remember when I saw so much love in a room but that was exactly the case for the book launch party for "The Girlfriend's Guide to Closing the Deal",  by the one and only Melody Spann Cooper, chairman of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, a best-in-class African American owned media boutique whose properties include radio and interactive platforms as well as the popular WVON 1690 AM, the oldest Black-

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Cheryl Burton conducts a convo with Meloday Spann Cooper.

oriented radio station in Chicago. The book was co-written by T. Shawn Taylor and held at SX Skybar with a powerhouse gathering of Melody's legion of friends, fans, sisters and supporters who alllllll turned out to hear a spellbinding convo led by Cheryl Burton, who

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It was a packed house!

was also a host of the event along with Cheryle Jackson, Shawnelle Richie and Toi Salter. Melody is a real woman's woman and her empathy and concern for her fellow sisters were very evident during the

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Buy this book!

conversation. She bared her soul talking about her childhood and how hard it was to take over a legacy company–like Linda Johnson Rice, who she acknowledged in the crowd. Seen on the scene were Mahalia Ann Hines (Common's mom), Angela Thompson, Star Jones, Michelle McKinney Hammond, Tarrah

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Follow her on Insta–@melodyspanncoooper.

Cooper, Stella Foster, Dionne Williams, Diane Primo, Sylvia Perez, George Fuller, Mary Mitchell, State's Attorney Kim Foxx, Hermene Hartman, Andrea Zopp, Shari Runner and many others. I'm thrilled to know Melody is already planning her next book which will be the story of Black women in America to be titled "Invisible." (Mel's book is available on Amazon here and at Barnes & Noble).

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Ted Reynolds, Matt Toczylowski, Genevieve Dolan and Barrett Stephan.

The 17th Annual Art in Motion, hosted by the Associate Board of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, was held on September 6 with over 400 guests. The event took place at the hospital where the 10th floor SkyLobby and Auditorium were transformed into an exciting art

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James Sliwa, Chief Medical Officer.

exhibit and cocktail lounge that featured 25 patient artists along with live music and an art and raffle auction. The theme of this year’s Art in Motion was “The Soul Moves First” – a phrase that holds important meaning to the exhibiting artists who were once patients and participants in the

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Michael Swan, Breanne Littleton and Tony Seaman.

hospital’s art therapy program. As Sami, a former patient from Venezuela, said, Our bodies are fragile, but our souls are strong. Push yourself and you can believe that you can recover, and you will be stronger than before.”  This year’s event

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Daniel D., Mary and Danny Dolan.

raised $500,000 for therapeutic recreational programs that are typically not funded by insurance and that enable patients to let “the soul move first.” Kudos to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Associate Board for an exciting and meaningful event!

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BSF Gold Classic foursome sponsored by William Blair and Brent Glendhill–Mike Sabo, Cameron Morris, Matt Gilmore and Greer Clausen.

More than 300 civic and corporate leaders from across the country came out recently to participate in the 19th Annual Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic co-chaired by Giancarlo Turano. The event is Big Shoulders Fund’s largest

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BSF president/CEO Josh Hale and Mike Hanna, United Airlines VP of O'Hare Operations.

annual fundraiser and supports the Friends of Big Shoulders Scholarship, which provides critical tuition assistance to a portion of the nearly 20,000 inner-city students and families seeking access to a values-based education at one of the 75 Big Shoulders Fund schools. Hosted at the prestigious Olympia Fields Country Club, attendees participated in a series of contests, raffles and live and silent auctions, which, along with ticket sales,

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BSF Foursome sponsored by GATX.

go towards funding scholarships. Over the last 19 years, the Golf Classic has raised more than $9 million and funded more than 12,500 scholarships. “We’re thrilled with the success of the event and grateful for the support of all those who came out to Olympia Field and helped us further Big Shoulders Fund’s mission of providing access and opportunity for deserving students who are eager to learn,” said Turano. “It’s empowering to see leaders from across the country and the Chicagoland  area come together to make a difference in the lives of the next generation of leaders in our city and beyond.” Big Shoulders Fund is an independent charitable organization that has

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Student volunteers from Leo High School, one of 75 Big Shoulders Fund schools.

offered support to schools in the neediest areas of Chicago for 33 years. Big Shoulders Fund invests approximately $30 million annually in 75 schools and nearly 20,000 students to enhance the quality of their education through academic programs, scholarships and enrichment, leadership development and operational strategy and improvements. All but three of the schools in the Big Shoulders Fund network are in the city of Chicago and many of the students we serve come from diverse socioeconomic and racial backgrounds – 80 percent represent minorities and nearly 70 percent live in low-income households.

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Pier Pumpkin Lights Navy PierFREE!! The first-ever Pier Pumpkin Lights is coming to Navy Pier this October, where guests will explore a variety of pumpkin pop-up installations and enjoy Pier-wide deals during the month-long seasonal celebration. From jack-o’-lantern towers to glowing light displays, the Pier will be decked out for autumn. Designed by local Ivan Carlson Event Design, six installations will be displayed across the 50-acre Pier, stretching from the main entrance to past the GettyImages-683620088-768x529iconic Centennial Wheel. Building on inspiration from traditional Halloween images as well as unique and original designs, featured stations include the Juggernaut of Jack-O-Lanterns in Polk Bros Park, Pumpkin Picasso, Garden of Totems, Jack-O-Lantern IMG_5488-EDITEDJamboree, Pumpkin Dancers and Arachnids, as well as Skeleton Grave Dancers scattered throughout. The pop-up installations will be on exhibit daily during normal Pier operating hours but will best be experienced after dusk. The Pier will be full of fun and fright with several other Halloween festivities. Guests can enjoy three dates of free trick-or-treating on Saturday, October 26; Sunday, October 27; and on Halloween, Thursday, October 31. HalloWheel also returns this year, offering guests an opportunity to ride the Centennial Wheel free of charge. The first 1,031 guests to register for tickets will enjoy complimentary access to the iconic, year-round attraction during normal operating hours on Thursday, October 31. Tickets will be available one week prior to Halloween and, on select IMG_5339-EDITEDweekend dates and on Halloween, an Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze will transform into a Haunted Maze, inspired by famous Chicago ghost stories for a spooky, twisty time. Finally, Navy Pier will host the inaugural Cosplay on the Pier: Halloween Fest 2019 on Saturday, October 26 from 2 – 10 p.m. With a designated cosplay photo area, the Chicago skyline, iconic Centennial Wheel and Pier Pumpkin Lights displays, the event will offer great views and backdrops for Halloween photos and fun. All cosplayers who register before the event will also receive a variety of perks, including a free Centennial Wheel ticket, discounted parking, a chance to win a $300 Visa gift card and more.  For more information, visit www.navypier.org.

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Autism glowsAnd speaking of pumpkins, how sweet is this? Jack's Pumpkin Glow in Lisle will have a special, sensory-friendly night for kids/adults with autism or who might need special care. Autism Glows will open a little earlier, 6:30 pm, and the crowds will be smaller (due to limited tickets), music will be a little lower and the atmosphere will be a little brighter. This special event will be held on Sunday, October 6. For tickets/more info, click here!

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69820816_2405390219740887_8842360823692132352_nSpring is alive and well at the fabulous 900 North Michigan Shops! You won't want to miss Fleurs de Villes ’ Floral Couture Installation as it makes its first appearance in Chicago from September 25-29. This unique, five-day exhibition is Fleurs Bloomsbury Flowers + Brocket Hall 2de Villes’ signature event, blending luxury floral couture and fresh blooms with bespoke floral-dressed mannequins and fresh flower market stalls daily from September 26-29. Fifteen of Chicago’s leading florists, including HMR Designs, ACS_0057Kehoe Designs, The Revel Group,Flowers for Dreams, The Flower Firm, Flora Chicago, Les Fleurs Chicago, Fleur Inc., Flowers Flowers, Elenas Garden Events, Luci Floral Design, Mila Floral Design School, Anemone Chicago, Designs by Pael and more will be paired with world-class brands to design Amie Bone + Mariages Freresstunning displays from fresh flowers. The five-day extravaganza kicks off on Wednesday, September 25 when the finished mannequins, each clothed in a one-of-a-kind design made up of hundreds of fresh blooms, will be exhibited at 900 North Michigan Shops until Sunday, September 29. I just can't wait! I'm proud to be a judge of this fun exhibit with the one and only Michelle Alegria (of Fox-32)! Join US! 

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The Great Leap Opening - 1

Arnel Sacianco and Rashaad Hall at opening night for The Great Leap at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. (Photo by Gracie Meier)

Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s 2019/20 season of complex, beautiful and maddening theater kicked off with a thrilling Chicago premiere by in-demand playwright, Lauren Yee, directed by Jesca Prudencio.

The Great Leap Opening - 10

Actor Deanna Myers and playwright Lauren Yee at opening night for The Great Leap at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. (Photo by Gracie Meier)

Set in 1989, The Great Leap tells the story of Manford Lum, a local star of the sidewalk basketball courts of San Francisco’s Chinatown who strong arms his way onto an American college team traveling to Beijing for a “friendship” game. Set amidst the friction of the post-Cultural Revolution era, The Great Leap keeps tensions high right up to the final buzzer.The Great Leap is currently playing through October 20 in the Upstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Symphony Board co-chairs Mimi Murley and Leslie Henner Burns with CSOA president Jeff Alexander

Symphony Board co-chairs Mimi Murley and Leslie Henner Burns with CSOA president Jeff Alexander at Symphony Ball kick-off party at Tiffany & Co.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Women's Board hosted a kick-off event in advance of their annual Symphony Ball at Tiffany & Co. on September 10. This year’s Symphony Ball, on September 21, took its

70709865_10156798437018049_3315589283632381952_n

Symphony Ball performance.

theme of romance, revelry and artistry of the Italian Renaissance from the evening’s musical program which featured the CSO and Maestro Riccardo Muti, along with internationally acclaimed soloist Leif Ove Andsnes on the piano. Following the concert,

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Gala dinner at the Four Seasons.

guests continued their evening at The Four Seasons for special entertainment, a gala dinner and dancing. Outstanding vintages of wine from private cellars, exclusive wineries and Chicago's finest restaurants were donated for a creative Wine Pull raffle. While every ticket yielded a wine selection, it might also have yielded magnificent jewelry and crystal items

71057584_10156798435513049_8600428000263012352_n

Maestro Muti with Leif Ove Andsnes.

donated by Tiffany, as well as other surprises and gift certificates. Tiffany also sponsored the "Anniversary Raffle" in honor of the 10th anniversary of the Women’s Board of the CSOA.  A 16-stone signature Schlumberger ring encircled one lucky lady’s finger at the end of the evening! Sigh…..Congrats to all! (Photos by Todd Rosenberg)

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Chicago Botanic Garden pumpkin imageMark your calendars for a spectacular holiday show, Lightscape, debuting for the first time in the U.S. at the Chicago Botanic Garden from November 22 to January 5! You’ll wander into a festive world of wonder and light. Along a mile-long path, the night comes alive with color, imagination, and sound, from a playful choir of singing trees to a spectacular waterfall of light. At times, you’ll find yourself in the center of it all — stepping inside a cathedral of golden light, walking down an avenue of luminous linden trees, moving through colorful ribbons of light. More than one million people in 2018 were delighted by the show across the U.K. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

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Chicago Theatre Cirque holiday showAnd more holiday fun coming to the Chicago Theatre! You know how much I love this time of the year, well this production is going to satisfy all of my cravings and then some! Mark your calendars for 'Twas the Night Before…", a world premiere presented by Cirque du Soleil and the Madison Square Garden Company coming for a limited engagement November 29. This magical, family-friendly production, with stunning visuals, will run through Dec. 8. (This is Cirque's first ever Christmas show so you know it will be fabulous!) For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Havana Nights--Crohn's disease gala 2019The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation will present its annual gala, this year themed "Making an Impact: Havana Nights" at the Drake Hotel on Saturday, November 9. Indulge in some of Cuba's cultural cuisine and enjoy an evening of entertainment, dancing, auctions and raffles along with an inspiring program to combat IBD. Proceeds will benefit the Foundation's mission to cure Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. For tickets and more info, click here!

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Https _cdn.evbuc.com_images_71334495_161502681147_1_original.20190906-142241The Muslim American Leadership Alliance will host its 4th annual gala on Thursday, November 7, at the Chicago History Museum. Chicago legend Malik Yusef, 6-time Grammy award-winner and seven-time ASCAP award-winner for pop and R & B, will deliver the keynote address. For tickets and more info, click here!

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Martin Short

Martin Short will be keynote speaker at the LSCRF fall benefit luncheon.

The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host its annual Fall Benefit Luncheon on Friday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago. Co-chaired by Justyna Della Valle and Michelle Williams, the event will feature funnyman Martin Short as its keynote speaker. For tickets, more info, click here!

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CSLAD-webbanner-1400x400The Chicago Public Library Foundation will host its annual Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner on Thursday, October 10 at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum (725 W. Roosevelt Road). Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Carl Sandburg Literary Award will be presented to "Game of Thrones" author George R. R. Martin! The education sociologist Dr. Eve L. Ewing will be honored with the 21st Century Award. For tickets, more info, click here!

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MekkyMekky Media Relations  (Michelle Mekky, a Crain's Notable Entrepreneur) is launching a Masterclass workshop which will help professionals of all levels enhance their skills in areas such as public speaking, networking, media interviews and even generating media coverage for themselves or their businesses. Tickets are on sale now for this one-day workshop which will be held Friday, Nov. 15, at Exchange312, an innovative event space in Wicker Park. The inaugural Mekky Media Masterclass will help each participant become a dynamic public speaker, network with confidence and conduct powerful media interviews (plus learn a few tricks for getting media coverage). The day will focus on providing valuable tools that can help professionals improve their career, business and future. Not to be missed! Love her! (Tickets/more info here)

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Dancing with the stars 2019We're just two weeks away from Giordano Dance Chicago's "Dancing with the Giordano Stars" on Thursday, October 3 at Park West! New this year is the addition of a once-in-a-lifetime live auction package that allows the winning bidder to STAR in the opening production number of the next event! Value: PRICELESS! Join us for a dance party like none other and cheer on your friends who are competing! They will include 11 local notables (who will be paired with Giordano dancers): Wendy Berger, Kevin McIntyre, Collin McKenna, Sarah Cunningham, Bobby Hagelstein, Kristine Kinder, Nicole Klotz, Karen Larson, Gregory Long, Jennifer Thurswell and Jeannie Tremblay. For tickets/more info and to place a vote for a favorite, click here!

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La Rabida galaFriends of La Rabida will host its annual Awards Celebration on Thursday, November 21 at the Ritz-Carlton. Award recipients will be Randy Markowitz (a trustee for La Rabida Children's Hospital) and Lisa Rolfe Burik (owner Frankie's on the Park). For tickets, more info, click here!

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AcesUP2019_inviteGraphicUrban Prep Academies will host it's annual Aces Up! Charity Poker Tournament on Thursday, October 24, at Chicago Sports Museum (Water Tower Place, level 7). This 13th annual event, hosted by Alexi Giannoulias, Tim King (UPA founder), Richard Roeper and Chris Zorich, will include high-stakes gambling, great food and media, entertainment and sports stars in attendance, all to support Urban Prep Academies, a non-profit that operates a network of free, open-enrollment public male college-prep high schools. From 2010-2016, 100% of the seniors in the school's graduating classes were admitted to four-year colleges or universities. (For tickets/more info, click here!)  

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65823122_2445116598882836_6451507406529626112_nWe tried to get into Chef Darius Williams new Soul Crab Chicago

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Chef Darius Williams.

restaurant on opening night but the line stretched around the block and we got too hungry staring into the windows as lucky diners were slurping down house specialties like Bahamas-style deep-fried lobster, buttermilk battered catfish fingers, Chinese wontons stuffed with collard greens and crab meat and so much more. If you get a chance to eat here (1904 N. Western Ave.), please let me know how it was!

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Jane Eyre Luncheon HeaderThe Joffrey Ballet Women's Board will host its Jane Eyre Luncheon on Tuesday, October 8, at the Hilton Chicago. WB co-chairs Chrissie Walker and Marcie Wright have planned an afternoon of exciting convo and a behind-the-scenes look at the production with choreographer Cathy Marston. (For tickets/more info, click here!) (The production runs from October 16-27. For tickets, click here!)

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RSM Sept. 28-29Randolph Street Market will host its next vintage market on Sat/Sun, Sept. 28/29. This market will feature an Editor's & Designer's Choice for Charity! Shop finds hand-picked by some of Chicago's top interior designers, fashion stylists, journalists and influencers who will place a ribbon on their choices. When customers buy these items, RSM will make a donation to the charity of their choice! And, for the first time, this market will feature a world class Vintage Motorcycle Show, with over 45 of the most beautiful European, Asian and American bikes around! (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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WhitePin9e_Eblast_2019FallFestjpg5d83fcaa81646Doesn't this look like a great reason for a fall road trip? White Pine Farm in New Buffalo, Michigan, will host its 2nd annual White Pine Fall Fest on Saturday, October 19! The afternoon event (from noon-3 pm, EST) will include live music by Groupies Wanted, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, food, games and more! Guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Harbor Country Emergency Food Pantry. (To RSVP, email Kristina at khanna@ucdgrp.com. )

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Chuck--1950Please indulge me for a moment while I wish my Chuck a

Chuck's 76 BD at the Peninsula 9-19-19

Celebrating Chuck's BD with a cake from the Peninsula (Greg Hyder).

happy, happy birthday! On his special day, Thursday, September 19, he allowed me to celebrate him at Haute Dog Chicago, an event I covered benefiting Haute Dog Companions (watch Trib for details coming soon!). The Peninsula's Greg Hyder presented him with a surprise cake, so thoughtful! I feel so blessed to have this guy as my husband, he makes everything I do possible in every way and I couldn't live a minute without him. Happy BD dear one and thanks for your love and support!

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Thank-you-for-reading-257x300That's it for this week! I hope you've enjoyed the blog as much as I enjoy writing and sharing it with you!! And remember, if you have any event info or happy news I can share, please send it my way at Candace@CandaceJordan.com. Please sign up here if you're not a subscriber!

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! That fist bump tho'…watch video here.

Ima9ge

 

 

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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!
 

1 - Steppenwolf co-founders and ensemble members Terry Kinney, Gary Sinise and Jeff PerrySteppenwolf 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
2 - Jeff Perry, Steppenwolf Board Chair Nora Daley and Desiree Rogerscommunity 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
3enjoying 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
4 - Blackhawk on Halstedmember 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
5 - Penny Pritzker with Steppenwolf ensemble member and 2013 Tony Award nominee Laurie MetcalfCreative
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
6 - Terry Kinney, Pat Pulido Sanchez and Manuel Manny Sanchezadventures 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,
7 - Doug Brown with Steppenwolf ensemble member and 2013 Tony Award nominee Amy MortonKate 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
8 - Mary Finnegan, co-chair Stephen Quazzo with ensemble member Kate Arrington and Michael ShannonPerry, 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
9 - Ensemble member Alana Arenas with Eileen and Christopher Murphyand 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
10 - Gary Sinise with Rick and Cate Waddelland 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
11 - Ensemble member Jon Michael Hill (center) with Rebecca and Dennis Ryanand 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,
12 - Bill and Maria Smithburg with co-chairs Tom and Colette SmithburgPenny 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
13 - Co-chair Colette Cachey Smithburg with Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Bruce NorrisZucker. 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
14 - Natalie Lavoie, Steve Traxler and Jan Melkdinner 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
15 - Gary Sinise entertains the crowdChicago 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
16 - CEO of CPS Barbara Byrd-Bennett and Diana RaunerChicago 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
17 - Caryn Harris, Randy and Evie Lyonprepared exclusively by Chef Stephanie Izard with guests of honor Steppenwolf co-founders Terry Kinney and Josh Charles (star of the CBS drama “The Good
18 - Nora Daley Conroy and ensemble member K. Todd FreemanWife
”). 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-
19 - Blackhawk on Halsted venue with decor by Event Creativeand 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,
Steppenwolf signincluding 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.)

 

1 - Cece and Tom Ricketts with Deborah LaheyGuests 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,
2 - Don Lowery, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Susan Whiting and Rebecca Roussellwhich 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
3 - Chris Leggee and Alex Sabbagevening – “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
4 - Vera and Danny Davishour, 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
5 - Kelly Hackett, Deborah Lahey and David Hackettpresident 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
7 - Susan Whiting, Susana Mendoza and David SzostakKelly
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.
6 - Kimberly and Dan ClancyCalihan 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!)

 

1 - John Hinshaw, Billy Gardell and Julia HinshawNearly 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
3 - Alina Plaia, Azeeza Khan and Donna Mittelstadtat 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,
2 - Anna Brown, Jackie and Glenn Tilton and Greg Brownexecutive 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
4 - Billy Gardell, Nancy Yaw, Ron Magersphilanthropists. “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
5 - Ilene Gordon and Bram Bluesteinbirthdays.” 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
6 - Kim Hammondsjeweler’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!) 

 

1 - Wendy Krimins, E.J. Viso and Fritz BonrbergNeiman 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
2 - Lesley Stump, Lauren Petticrew and Bridget Halanskieach 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
3 - New GNMAA president Mary Ann Rose, Amy Wimer and her husband Ed Wlodarczyksetting. The party also celebrated CS Magazine’s Men of Style issue. This
5 - Walegan Koya and Ryan Bakeryear’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,
4 - Wendy Krimins and some CS Men of Style, Chris Hendel, Matt Roan, E.J. Viso, Dr. Julius Few, Mike Cao and Rino Burdiwere 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
7 - Jenna and Tad Strickerevening 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
8 - Jason Hopkins and Christopher TheobaldMan’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
6 - Jon Landan, Fern Baker, Zack Baker and Andrew LandanBaker, 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
9 - Sleek new Man's Store on the 4th floor at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenuedestined 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!)

 


Ozzie_flierThe 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
Ozzie and Ibis GuillenStates 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.)

 

3 - Milesh Jain aka Dr. GhabitFor 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
1 - Milesh Jain's new book Gaby's Organic GardenRoof
,” 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.


1 - Chicagoland graphicWell, 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”
2 - Robert Redford (Pic by Mila Samokhina)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
3 - Filmmaker-producer Marc Levintogether 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!


Humanfirstlogohf_mainEach 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
BillieJeanKingahead 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
Center on halsted2011LOGOChicago 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.


Glam imageThis 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
Macy's Glamorama 2012(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
Sherylcrow300Action 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.)


Randolph Street MarketDon’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 &
RSM_webpromo-may2013Leisure
, 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
My favorite market!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! 🙂


1 - With Lin Brehmer, Nick Bowling and host Elysabeth AlfanoWhat 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
With Nora Dunn, Arica and Sven AsmusSean 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
264482_10151974159348018_988459042_nalum 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!

 


 

Martin_Short 2012 (2)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.

 

1 - Event co-chairs and AFT Board members Billy Lullo and Benjamin SprungerNearly 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
2 - 46th Ward Alderman James Cappleman whose office was the 2013 Leppen Leadership Award recipientAFT’s newly-announced artistic director Andrew Volkoff, who succeeds outgoing artistic director Bonnie Metzgar this spring. Greeted by fire dancers, stilt walkers, a
3swinging 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,
4 - Outgoing AFT Artistic Director Bonnie Metzgar, Artistic Associate Patrick Andrews and Megan Carneypartiers 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
5 - AFT Board Prez William Michel, co-chair Benjamin Sprunger and Artistic Associate John FranciscoDJ Swaguerilla
. The 2013 Leppen Leadership Awards were presented to Mary F. Morten and the Office of
6 - Bryan West, Chris LeBeau and Terrance HawkinsAlderman 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
7and encourage LGBTQA adults and youth to create intergenerational
8 - Taryn Shultz and Danni Sullivanunderstanding 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!) 

 

Tea for Tots invite imageOn 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! 

 

Campfire-Ball-2013Relive 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.

 

Logo-gmnaaThe 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

 

Mission Possible Logo 2And 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
 

Jenny McCarthy with the Doyle FamilyP.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!

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JENNIFER HUDSON HELPS QATAR AIRWAYS INTRODUCE THEMSELVES TO CHICAGO!

…PLUS AN ELEGANT NYC BLUE BOOK BALL; DUSABLE’S “NIGHT OF 100 STARS”; JANE SEYMOUR OPENS HER HEART; TENNIS LEGEND JIMMY CONNORS SHARES ALL; CUBS' “BRICK & IVY” BALL; JOAKIM NOAH GIVES BACK AND EVENTS FOR MAY YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS!


1 - Jennifer Hudson performs!The first direct route from Chicago to Doha, the capital city of the state of Qatar, opened for business on April 10th. On April 11th, Qatar Airways celebrated with a blow-out party for 580 guests at the Field Museum
2 - Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jennifer Sutton, Paul Iacono, Helen Melchior, Jason and Katie McLenaghanfeaturing Grammy and Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson as the evening's entertainment. The event began with a cocktail reception and red carpet photos with beautiful Qatar Airways flight attendants. As guests
3 - Geoffrey and Monica Dixon (2nd from L), Lonnie Rodriguez and friendsentered the ballroom for a sit-down dinner, a dramatic lighting display was shown on the wall above the stage where Hudson would later perform. A video presentation showcased the beautiful city of Doha and
4 - Tracy Schmidt with a lucky trip winner!this world class airline. Skytrax, the bible in aviation, has named Qatar Airways the “World's Best Airline” two years running now. (Doha will also be hosting the World Cup in 2022.) The delicious dinner, catered by Food for Thought, began with a poached lobster salad followed by beef tenderloin with
5 - CEO of Qatar Airways Akbar Al Baker, Deputy Mayor of Chicago Steve Koch, Qatar’s Ambassador to U.S. His Excellency Mohamad Bin Abdulla Al-Rumaihi-thyme jus. Dessert was a Nobu specialty – macana, which is mango jelly with white chocolate mousse, raspberries, pistachio sponge and lime sorbet. I’m told the wine pairings were an oenophile's dream! The program continued with Miss Illinois Megan Ervin introducing the CEO of
6 - James “Big Cat” Williams, Maureen and Marc SchulmanQatar Airways, Akbar Al Baker. He told the rapt audience that this new collaboration between Qatar and Chicago is expected to generate $250 million dollars and bring thousands of jobs to the community. Chicago Deputy Mayor Steve Koch spoke next and welcomed Qatar Airways to the Windy City. Qatar flight attendants were
7 - Jerry Azuma and friendsscattered throughout the audience collecting business cards which were then used to choose the lucky winners of free trips for two to Doha. Five trips were offered but sadly, no one at our table won. :(  When Hudson appeared onstage,
8 - The Landan Twins, RJ Melman and James Feeley and friendsthe crowd went wild. She looked fantastic in a short, flared black leather mini. Near the end of her performance, guests were invited to dance with her onstage and boy, was that ever a thrill! Tables for this historical gala were offered
9 - Jason McKie and friendto members of its VIP social committee. I was thrilled to be included along with these Chicago notables: Israel Idonije, Alexi Giannoulias, Lindsay Avner, Greg Hyder, Monika Dixon, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Jon and Andrew Landan, Neal Zucker, Linda Johnson Rice, Julie Latsko, Les Coney, Keene
11 - Skip Grisham and Megan McKinneyAddington, Larry Wert, Shawn Baldwin, Justin Jacobson, Sheila King, Kristine Green, Tracy Schmidt, Wendy Krimins, Marco Larsen, J.P. Anderson, Katherine Tarbox, Abigail Tarbox
and Laurie Davis. “As the world's best airline, our goal tonight was to showcase the full extent of our five-star service and invite the people of this great city to
10 - Dancing onstage with Jennifer!fly with us to Doha and our many exciting destinations around the world,” said Al Baker. Qatar Airways is currently offering three non-stop flights a week between Doha and Chicago with plans to upgrade to daily service in June. For more info and flight schedules, please visit www.qatarairways.com. Oh, what a night! (To see ALL event pics, please click here!)


1 - Blue Box venue in Rockefeller CenterRecently, NYC was glittering with 1920’s pizzazz! The Jazz Age returned for one spectacular evening, summoned by Tiffany & Co. to ignite the Blue Book Ball. The champagne-fueled celebration was held in honor of the 2013 Blue Book Collection of Tiffany’s
2 - Carey Mulligan, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin (Pic by Andrew Walker-Getty Images)most breathtaking jewels, inspired by the Roaring Twenties that transformed fashion and culture. The preeminent jeweler, then and now, designed the jewels that epitomized glamour and lit up posh Manhattan supper clubs. The sheer exuberance of this magical moment in American life pervaded Rockefeller Center, scene of the Ball that took place within a 31-foot-high Tiffany Blue Box covering the center’s famous 15,000-square-foot ice rink. In his remarks, Tiffany & Co.’s chairman and
3 - Gwyneth Paltrow wearing Tiffany diamondsCEO Michael J. Kowalski said, “The
4 - Megan Hilty performs onstageJazz Age was a time of great energy and creativity. All eyes looked to New York for the latest in music and style. As the city’s first great jeweler, Tiffany provided the diamonds for this nonstop party and, I am happy to say, we still do. So it is with pleasure and gratitude that we celebrate this memorable chapter in American life, in the city where it all began — and with our diamonds that are still the world’s most beautiful.” The 400 guests included
5 - Sarah Jessica Parkercelebrities Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson, Jessica Biel, Sarah Jessica Parker, Carina Lau, Alice Eve, Poppy Delevingne, Peter and Harry Brant, Doutzen Kroes and Hilary Rhoda,
6 - Academy Award winning costume designer Catherine Martin and director-writer-producer Baz Luhrmanalong with Carey Mulligan, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin (star, director/producer/co-writer and costume/production designer of “The Great Gatsby,” respectively). Guests disembarked at Fifth Avenue and proceeded along the promenade, which was bathed in Tiffany Blue, toward a beribboned entrance to an elegant supper club tailor-made for Jazz Age revelry. The seamless Art Deco setting, designed in a palette of chic gray tones, was lined with luxurious velvet drapes and laid
7 - Model Poppy Delevingnewith carpeting in a striking starburst pattern. At the floor’s center, a towering tribute to the bubbly rose toward the ceiling on mirrored risers, with 240 glasses and 142 magnums of Moët & Chandon Imperial champagne. Surrounding it were elegant lounges
8 - Actress Jessica Bieland banquettes arranged for dining in the style of a supper-club buffet, served amid lavish arrangements of white flowers. And trays of iPads for posting images on social media circulated like the cigarette trays of a previous era. (Was this a great idea or what?) Showcased in custom-designed vitrines were jewels from the 2013 Blue Book Collection that reflect Tiffany’s legacy of Art Deco design. Among them were diamond necklaces and drop earrings, platinum and diamond bracelets set in patterns
9 - Model Doutzen Kroesof a jazz composition or with great diamond fans unfolding on black enamel; a suite of voluptuous diamond flowers; and the rarest fancy color
10 - Kate Hudsondiamonds — pink, orange, blue and green. Gemstones Tiffany introduced to the world included green tsavorite, pink morganite, lilac-pink kunzite and blue-violet tanzanite, Montana sapphires and luxuriant turquoise. The bronze-gilded statue of the Greek Titan Prometheus, a fixture of Rockefeller Center, served as backdrop to the stage and a full-scale, ‘20s-style revue. Backed by an orchestra, dancers in fringed and spangled “flapper” costumes reprised classic songs (“Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”), complete with raucous renditions of the Lindy and
11Charleston, and current pop hits (Rihanna’s “Diamonds”), followed by Broadway singer Megan Hilty with more standards from the American
12 - Actress Michelle Williams draped in Tiffany jewelsSongbook. The singer led the finale, accompanied by aerialists that descended from above, trailing feathered headdresses and dancing in mid-air. On cue, a blizzard of silvery fine confetti brought down the curtain on a simply fabulous evening. It was a milestone in the history of New York and its legendary jeweler: the night Tiffany brought the Jazz Age brilliantly to life at the glamorous and euphoric Blue Book Ball. Three words, OH MY GOODNESS! Congrats to Tiffany & Co. on their continuing dedication to excellence in ALL things, including glamorous, over-the-top events like THIS one!


1 - Tony Smith, Barbara Bates, Diane Primo, Richard Gamble and Karen JordanThe DuSable Museum of African American History hosted “A Night of 100 Stars” recently at the South Shore Country Club. This lavish evening included exquisite food, stellar entertainment and an award
2 - Carol Adams, Honoree Cymbrehona Warren and DuSable Museum Board chair Clarence Bournepresentation with a sell-out crowd of more than 800 in attendance.
Paparazzi’s flashbulbs illuminated the sky as guests walked the red carpet to indulge in “out-of-the-world” cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a lavish buffet and world-class
3 - Dr. Carol Adams pres-ceo of dusable museum and Sandy Reynolds, gala Chairentertainment and towitness the presentation of the “2013 A Night Of 100 Stars Awards.” This year, five incredible Chicago women were honored during this annual black-tie celebration
4 - Night of 100 Stars event chairman Nicole-Johnson Scales and Sandy Reynoldsof excellence, women who have made outstanding contributions to society, the city and to the world through their careers and civic engagement. The honorees were Mara Brock Akil (award-winning
5 - Carol Adams and honoree Barbara Batestelevision producer/writer), Barbara Bates (fashion designer/philanthropist), Michelle L. Collins (president, Cambium L.L.C.), Diane I. Primo (CEO, IntraLink Global) and Cymbrehona Warren (senior, Young Women’s Leadership Charter School). Serving as 2013 Gala chairmen were Nicole Johnson-Scales
6 - Night of 100 Stars honorees Michelle Collins, Cymrehona Warren, Barabara Bates and Diane Primoand Sandy Reynolds. ABC 7’s Karen Jordan and Charles Thomas hosted the awards presentation. Committee Members included Lynne Bamford, Keiana Barrett, Sharon Bourne, Cheryl Bowman-McPherson, Deborah O. Brown, Florestee Buss E.D., Toiya Butler-White, Randall
7 - Mayor and Congressman Danny DavisCaldwell, Yolanda Collins, Valerie Corr Hanserd, Linda Crane Boyd, Dolores Cross Ph.D., Yolanda Daniel, Nicole Durham, Stanley Gilkey, Frances Guichard, Diana Hennington, Valerie Hill, LaWanda Holmes-
8 - Carol Adams, Honoree Michelle Collins, DuSable Museum Board member Leon WalkerWilliams, Delores Irvin, Lisa M. James, Zara Johnson, Grace LaJoy-Little, Sonya Lewis, Shirley Massey, Sandra McCollum, Adrienne McGee, Reverend James T. and Jamell Meeks, Lisa Newman, Pastor Smokie and Carla Norful, Joyce Owens, Darlene Pierre-Louis, Yvette
9 - Guests at A Night of 100 Stars-Sandra Rand in white-grey ballgownPowe, Sandra Rand, Cheryl Rayner, Toi Salter, Dona Scott, Gladys Smith, Valerie Stoudemire, Gail Swain, Dolores Thibodeaux, Wendy Walker Williams, Cheryl Whitaker, M.D., Cheryl Williams, Carole Wood, and Mary Ann Young.
10 - Guests enjoy a musical performanceCaterers included Beyond Events Catering, Bon Manger Catering, C’Est Si Bon, Fanfares Catering, Inc., Ja’Grill Catering, Josephine’s Southern Culture Cooking, Just Turkey of Homewood, Lenore’s Kitchen, Melon Express, Sinha Catering and The Parrot Cage. I always like to give credit where credit is due and the food was fabulous at this event! The DuSable Museum of African American History is one of
11 - Mayor and honoree Barbara Batesthe oldest institutions of its kind in the country. Their mission is to collect, preserve and display artifacts and objects that promote understanding and
12 - Clarence Bourne, Carol Adams, Mayorinspire appreciation of the achievements, contributions and experiences of African Americans. For more information on the Museum and its programs, please call (773) 947-0600 or visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Congrats on another great event! (Photos by Jerome Simmons.)


1Eighty-five Chicago-area girls ages 5 to 17 hit the catwalk on a mission to help other children for the third annual Girls’ Spring Fashion Show & Tea. The Comer Development Board, Frankie’s On The Park children’s boutique and
2Rock Candy Salon & Spa
teamed up to host this event with more than 250 parents, friends and supporters in attendance in the Women’s Athletic Club of Chicago’s elegant ballroom. The afternoon raised more than
3 - Pretty as a picture!$30,000 to support critical patient care programs and treatments at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital. Celebrity stylist Eric Himel, who studied design under style guru Tim Gunn of “Project Runway
4 - Shirley and Pat Ryan and familyfame, served as the show’s emcee. The fundraiser offers girls an exciting opportunity to help save and improve the lives of children suffering from serious illnesses. Now in its third year, this event continues to increase in popularity drawing a slate of young
6 - Eric Himel and friendsmodels and guests from across the Chicagoland area. The show featured the latest in kids’ fashions from Frankie’s On The Park, a top Lincoln Park destination for trendy tweens and teens, who also donated 25% of its
8 - Future supermodelsproceeds from each outfit to Comer Children's Hospital. Rock Candy Salon & Spa was on hand to help each young model get runway ready. Other sponsors included Gene & Georgetti’s, Heffernan Morgan Ronsley
7Design, Nancy Krause Floral Design & Garden Antiques, Lisa Schenkman Interiors, O'Neil Family Foundation, Fishman's Fabrics
and Vineyard Bath Company. Congrats to all of the young models and generous donors who contributed to this wonderful charity event. (To view ALL event pics, please click here!)


1 - James Keach, Maria D'Angelo, Lee Woodruff, Hannah Storm, Jane Seymour, Marie Tillman2Adversity and obstacles confront us all yet how an individual responds to life’s challenges was the sole focus of a special gala evening hosted by actress, artist and philanthropist Jane Seymour and award-winning director and producer James Keach. For the third year, the Open Hearts Foundation recognized some incredible people and organizations that are devoted to inspiring and supporting others. Jane Seymour was stunning in a
Ace Young, Diana DeGarmoturquoise Pamella Roland gown (one of my fav designers!) and took the stage to kick off the event. Highlights included Marie Tillman’s speech. (She is the widow of fallen soldier and NFL star Pat Tillman; she was joined by her new husband, Joe Shenton.) She tearfully addressed the 300 attendees, while noting how Pat Tillman would have been so proud and that it’s remarkable how his life still has so much meaning. ESPN’s Hannah Storm, with 14-year-old daughter Ellery in tow,
Alex Bandspoke about her devotion to removing the stigma of disfiguring vascular birthmarks and empowering those affected by finding their inner beauty. She spoke candidly about her recent accident, which left her wondering if her career in front of the camera was over due to severe facial burns from the fire and the loss of her hair. An emotional video from former NFL great and ALS advocate patient Steve Gleason and his wife Michelle, set the mood for an
Jane Seymour and Chelsea Kane at Open Hearts Foundation galaincredible evening. Eighties movie star Jonathan Silverman and wife, soap star Jennifer Finnigan, accepted the award on their close friends’ behalf. Gleason, who suffers from ALS, spoke via computer technology using only his eyes, leaving not a dry eye in the crowd. Bob and Lee Woodruff learned all too well that life can change in just an instant when Bob suffered a traumatic brain injury in Iraq in 2006. Due to recent developments in South Korea, Bob was unable to attend at the last minute but made quite the appearance via a heartfelt taped message while on
Lee Woodruff, Jane Seymourlocation. Former lead vocalist for The Calling, Alex Band, not only wowed the crowd with his hit “Wherever You Will Go” but candidly broke the heartbreaking news that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease just six months ago, a surprise to all guests. Congrats to Jane and James for shining a light where it’s most needed. Keep up the wonderful work!


1I’m getting so excited about tennis great Jimmy Connors’ upcoming autobiography, “The Outsider.” His wife Patti told me he’s looking forward to a book tour that sadly, for now, doesn’t include a stop in Chicago but I will keep working on them! Here’s Jimmy’s description of the book, “A lot has been written about me, my family, my on-court behavior and my off-court life. Some of it is true, well, you decide. This book is going to change
3 - With Patti and Jimmy in L.A. before Mansion partythat. People may think they know Jimmy Connors. Maybe they do, but now it's time to set the record straight.” I just can’t wait, love him and love his darling family! The book will be available May 14th. To pre-order, please click here


1 - Grant recipients Hannah Perez, Isaac Diaz, Aaron Ibarra and Devin HallMore than 840 guests helped raise $1.2 million in a night filled with glamour, baseball and community at the recent Bricks and Ivy Ball to benefit Chicago Cubs Charities. Cubs owners, managers, players, front office associates and fans gathered together at Navy
2 - Kerry and Sarah WoodPier’s Grand Ballroom to enjoy cocktails, dinner, silent/live auctions and live music by DJ Kasper K and his ‘70s dancers. Now in its third year, the Bricks and Ivy Ball has become one of the key fundraisers for CCC and supports numerous organizations and programs targeting youth sports access
3 -  Cubs president Theo Epsteinand improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. As the program began, chairman Tom Ricketts addressed the Cubs’ commitment to supporting Chicago’s children through community outreach and charitable programming. “Our goal is to make life better for the youth and families of Chicago by doing our part to improve health, fitness and educational opportunities for those at risk,” said Ricketts.
5 - Cub Jeff Samardzija and friends“Whether it’s a hospital visit, holiday toy drive, serving lunch at a USO or Thanksgiving dinner to homeless teens, our team is there donating their time and resources.” During the evening,
Cubs owner Tom RickettsCCC introduced a video featuring some all-star youth who have benefitted from grants, including Cubs Care grants, a McCormick Foundation Fund. Hannah Perez from Cubs Care RBI Fast Pitch Girls Softball, Isaac Diaz from Urban Initiatives, Aaron Ibarra from Midtown Educational Foundation and Devin Hall from Breakthrough Urban
6 - Legendary Cub Ernie Banks (2nd from L) and friendsMinistries all talked about how the Chicago Cubs are making a difference in their communities and their lives. The video also featured Cubs players Darwin Barney, David DeJesus, Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija who interviewed the youth for the video. Congratulations on all you do Chicago Cubs Charities! For more info, please click here!


Lynne_jordan_banner_3Mark your calendars for April 29th! Beloved diva Lynne Jordan returns to City Winery with her sexy bunch of The Shivers for a night of joyous entertainment and song. Tickets are only $15 to see this award-winning chanteuse sing with her incredible orchestra! For tickets and more information about this event, please call 312.733.9463 or click here!

 


1 - Joakim Noah_Cécilia Rodhe_Ryan O'Donnell_Shin ThompsonChicago Bulls
center Joakim Noah joined more than sixty friends, family and supporters recently at soon-to be opened West Loop eatery Kabocha (located at 952 W. Lake) to raise
2 - Amanda Puck_David Manilow_Jacqui Wedewerawareness for his namesake charitable organization, Noah’s Arc Foundation. Guests sipped specialty cocktails and snacked on an array of tasty bites from Kabocha’s Chef Shin Thompson while mingling with the basketball star and his
3 - Dana Henderson_Ernest Wilkinsmother/expressive art therapist/sculptor and foundation co-founder Cecilia Rohde. During a short presentation in which smiling faces of children at NAF-organized camps and
4 - Nancy Crown_Anna O'Donnellprograms beamed from the screen, Noah reflected on the work his charity had done over its first two years. “When I think about those kids, they give me strength,” he said. Rodhe also said a few words, thanking partygoers and extolling the necessity of arts education and artistic expression for those children most in need. Noah’s Arc Foundation
5 - Stuart Buck_Karen Buck with with Chef Shin Thompsonwas founded in 2010 by Noah and Rodhe to help engage children in positive self-expression through arts and sports. Guests in attendance got a sneak peek
6 - Julie Carden_Anna O'Donnell_Beth O'Donnellat Kabocha, Chicago’s first Japanese brasserie. Hors d’oeuvres were modeled on dishes one can expect to find on the menu when Kabocha opens soon and included tuna and hamachi
8 - Andrew Weil_Mike Olson_Dominic Volinitartare, Kabocha squash and corn soup and rabbit dumplings with Thai basil. Some notable names came out in support, including artist and author Beth O’Donnell (mother of Kabocha co-owner Ryan O’Donnell), Nancy Crown, Caroline Crown and “Check, Please!” creator and executive producer David Manilow.


CalendarMay2013byjudybonzerStay tuned for these upcoming May events: WTTW Gala featuring Emmy Lou Harris on May 1st; Steppenwolf Gala on May 4th; "The Dinner Party" with host Elysabeth Alfano on May 6th (I can’t wait to be on with Lin Brehmer, Sean Pharr and Nick Bowling); Alzheimer’s Gala on May 11th; Taste for the Arts at the Harris Theatre on May 14th; Shakespeare Theater Gala on May 17th; Goodman Theatre Gala on May 18th; Campfire Ball on May 18th; DePaul University Theatre School Gala on May 22nd; Merit School of Music Gala on May 23rd; my birthday on May 26th (!); and the Hubbard Street Dance Spotlight Ball on May 30th! Whew! We’re going to be very, very busy!

Hope spring is around the corner and I hope you have enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace!

Love, as always,
Candace 🙂
Candace@CandidCandace.com


Steve and me with the Herrick family - Liz, Max, Jared and TylerP.S. I can’t wait to share an exciting documentary with you all soon! I’ve been working with Emmy Award-winning director and founder of Zacuto, Steve Weiss, to produce an inspiring story of an incredible family, the Herrick Family. You might know them as an Ambassador Family for Ronald McDonald House Charities but there’s so much more to learn! We can’t wait to share this heart-warming story with you, it will make you change the way you live in a very good way! Vanishing Point Films creator/editor Josh Orr will be collaborating on this dynamic and awe-inspiring piece. Stay tuned! #INSPIRING

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Sports, Television, Travel, Web/Tech, Weblogs

“INSPIRING FASHION” COSTUME BALL: EVERYONE WAS A STAR!

…PLUS "FACE THE FUTURE" FOUNDATION GALA; URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL;” A BELOVED PR FIRM’S BIG KUDOS;“CELEBRATE YOURSELF HEALTHY;” GIULIANA AND LINDSAY'S BIG IDEA; A MODERN DAY LOVE STORY; CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; MADHATTER’S BRUNCH FOR BROADWAY YOUTH CENTER; A SAD GOODBYE; WCIU VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Model Pat Cleveland chats with Hamish BowlesIt was one of the most beautiful events I’ve attended. Every guest who came through the front door of the Chicago History Museum looked like they were stepping out of the pages of Vogue – even emcee Bill Zwecker agreed
2 - A dreamy, floral bridal gown by Ungaro (1996-97)saying, “In all of the years, I don’t think I’ve seen a more glamorous, fashionable crowd.” From the moment you entered the building, you knew you were going to witness history. Beautiful models were stationed at every turn wearing the most dramatic fashions from the legendary Ebony Fashion Fair collection. They lined the staircases, draped languorously against
3 - Awe-inspiring décor by Tom Kehoethe walls and modeled on pedestals set up throughout the room. It was one night where you knew you had to find your best stuff to wear. Black tie wasn’t simply a suggestion – it was a mandate and everyone
4 - Costume Council President Nena Ivon (pic by Bob Carl)dressed to impress. Eunice Johnson’s eye was unerring and she gravitated towards the bold and dramatic, much like I suspect she was as a person. After all, one would have to be to become the trailblazer she was for the African American community. She introduced
5 - Neiman Marcus’ Wendy Krimins and Tina Koegel host a group of glam friends (Pic by Bob Carl)high couture to people who wouldn’t have otherwise seen it across the country and in spectacular fashion. She utilized top models who also represented her own sensibilities…other trailblazers like Iman and Pat Cleveland, two
6 - Artist Nick Cave (R) and friend  (Pic by Bob Carl)of the first black supermodels. Pat Cleveland attended this event and I saw her as she entered the building: It was like I was watching a film in slow motion because she didn’t really walk in…she glided. (Her swanlike neck was still the same as I remembered it in all
7 - Ikram Goldman and Morris Gearringof the top fashion magazines.) And that dress! OMG! It was pale pink with a train that stretched forever but she didn’t seem to notice. I would’ve been screaming at people to “watch my train” – the true mark of an amateur – but not Pat: As she posed for photos, you sensed a life in front of the cameras, someone completely comfortable in her own skin. Vogue’s international editor-at-large Hamish Bowles spotted
8 - Zac Stemer, Corri McFadden and Toni Canadaher, too (everyone did), and rushed to her side. As they chatted about goodness knows what, flashes were going off like crazy. It was definitely a “moment,” one of many for this fashion event of the season. One of
10 - Jasmine Mickael Jordan, Merri Dee and Juanita Jordanmy favorite photogs, Bob Carl, was shooting this event and he told me not to miss the dramatic décor in the big tent where we would soon be dining so I headed downstairs and my breath rushed out of my body. Truly, I’ve never seen a more elegant room…all
9 - George Fuller (2nd from L) with glam friendsdone in shades of purple, design guru Tom Kehoe had truly outdone himself this time! From the “upside-down orchids” hung in huge squares at every table to the chandelier within a chandelier within another chandelier hanging from the
11 - Loved this 1986 Jean Patou evening ensemble!draped ceiling, you just didn’t know where to look first. As a matter of fact, when guests streamed in later, there was a huge bottleneck at the door as guests stood gaping. And this was all BEFORE I saw the amazing exhibition featuring more than 60 fashions from
12 - Julie Selakovich and Lynne Bredfeldtthe Ebony Fashion Fair! OMGoodness! Well, you’ve probably seen a lot of photos by now since I know people were posting and Instagramming like crazy while I was there and for good reason: These were some of the top pieces from the couture collection of Eunice Johnson and the Fashion Fair and they were awe inspiring in both their drama and creativity. My favorites were the Givenchy silver raffia
13 - 1987 Emanuel Ungaro evening gownevening gown from 1997; the Christian Lacroix cocktail ensemble; the Jean Patou day ensemble (I would KILL for this outfit!); B Michael’s rainbow dress (he was there and so proud, and rightfully so!); Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld’s “shower dress”; Bob
14 - Rich and Melissa Gamble and friendsMackie
’s evening ensemble with white feathers and silver beads; Henry Jackson’s black and white ball gown; and Emanuel Ungaro’s floral bridal gown from 1996. (Insert long, loving sigh here…) When guests finally sat down for dinner, emcee Bill Zwecker thanked the crowd and introduced Costume Council president Nena Ivon, who thanked the co-chairs and told an
15 - Entrance making gown by Louis Feraud (1997-98)adorable story about Tom Kehoe. She said, “We stayed within budget for our décor but Mr. Kehoe decided it wasn’t
16 - Jim Smith (L), Greg Hyder and friendenough, so he did more.” How cool is this guy?! When honorary chair for the event, Linda Johnson Rice, was finally introduced the standing ovation was thunderous. She was beautiful from head to toe with a twinkle in her eye that drew you in and everyone loved hearing the story behind this exhibition and how her mother put together this awe-inspiring collection. Linda also gave a shout-out to curator Joy Bivins and to
17 - Upside-down orchid presentationDan Oliver
saying, “He designed everything you see here – he knew my mother’s vision.” The Ebony Fashion Fair travelled across the country for 50 years raising
18 - Chuck with David Brandt and Tony Rossimillions for African American charities.  No one wanted the evening to end so DJs Kiss and Moss made sure guests danced, danced, danced the night away at yet another fabulous party in our Windy City…truly the FIRST city of fashion! (View more photos from this fab evening here!) 

 

1 - Israel Idonije, BMO Harris CEO Ellen Costello, Gala Co-Chair Michael JudgeTransporting guests back to a time when all was glittering and decadent, the grand ballroom of the Four Seasons was decked out in Roaring Twenties décor for the Face the Future Foundation’s gala “Flappers, Fedoras and All That Jazz: A Night on the Toddlin' Town.” Guests
2 - Paul Colando, Jackie James, Tracey Guerin, Andrew Dennischanneled the fashion sensibilities of the decade with gals in beaded headpieces, lace and fringed dresses adorned with long strands of pearls while guys sported fedoras and bow ties. Two massive Art Deco vases filled with white ostrich plumes graced the entrance of the foyer. Co-chairs Mary Genet and
3 - Dr Maria Horvat, Jackie KohlmannMichael Judge
welcomed more than 300 guests to this elegant affair that included an extensive silent auction and “gambling” at “Jimmy’s Place Casino.” Honorary Chair Chicago Bear Israel “Izzy” Idonije arrived looking dapper as always in a black suit and white shirt topped with a fedora. Other
6 - Michael Lamm, Pilar Mercadoguests included Dr. Mimis Cohen and his wife Andrea Biel Cohen, Dr. Paula Allen-Meares, Dr. Joe "Skip" Garcia, Dr. Dimitri Azar and Dr. Enrico Benedetti. As the doors swung open at 8:00 p.m., guests oohed and ahhhed over the softly lit golden hued décor while the Stanley Paul Orchestra played the tunes of the era from the Charleston to the Foxtrot in the
4 - Sally & Dr Joe Skip Garcia, Andrea & Dr Mimis Cohen, Carla & Dr Enrico Benedettibackground. Emcee Dr. Sandra Goldberg of NBC 5 Chicago, welcomed guests and introduced Izzy. Foundation President Gus Abello presented the President’s Award to Jim Staples for his fundraising efforts and support of the Foundation. A live auction included a Venice/Paris
5excursion of 11 days/10 nights with two nights in Venice, then overnight on the Orient Express into Paris to enjoy a full week in a luxurious Paris apartment (AWESOME!); an idyllic escape to Virgin Gorda, BVI, to spend a week at the Bitter End Yacht Club (I love Dana Hokin Garvey and her fabulous family who created this
7 - Mary Genet, Bob Grahamamazing oasis); a romantic getaway with a Polynesian flair to the South Pacific for a Tahitian cruise aboard the small luxury ship m/s/ Paul Gauguin; and a wine cellar with more than 100 bottles of premium wines and champagne. The item that drew particularly fierce but friendly bidding was the week in a Tuscan villa for 12 people and a private chef. The generous donor of the villa offered the three top bidders the opportunity to each enjoy their own week. The live auction raised more than $100,000 with
8 - Isabelle & Gus Abello, Tina Abelloanother $60,000 in revenue coming from the Paddle Raise. (Event proceeds topped $340,000.) Michigan Avenue Magazine was the media sponsor for this wonderful event that raises funds and public awareness to support the care and treatment of children born with cleft lip, palate and other craniofacial abnormalities. The Center at UIC is one of the oldest and largest facilities of its kind in the USA. Click here for more info. (Photos by Jon Recana.)

 

1 - Eunita Rushing, Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance president, her daughter Regina Rushing, guest and Ina BurdUrban Gateways’ Art for All Gala
was held March 8th at City Winery Chicago and attracted more than 300 people. Many prominent Chicago business and civic leaders attended including
2 - Honorary Chairs Jim and Kay Mabie with Eric Delli BoviKay
and Jim Mabie (who served as honorary chairs for the event), Francee Harrington, Richard Dent, Eunita Rushing and an honorary/advisory committee that included
3 - Richard Dent and Diana PalomarCheryl Mayberrry McKissack
and Eric McKissack, Susan and Nick Pritzker and Dawoud Bey. This enchanting, art-filled evening supported Urban Gateways, one of the largest arts service providers in the city. Programs are led by some of the city’s most
4 - Students performing from an Urban Gateways programtalented professional artists in music, dance, theater, literary arts, visual arts and digital media, serving 57,000 students and teachers annually. The evening included cocktails, dinner, auction prizes and live performances by Urban Gateways performing groups: 20th Century Players and Chicago Improv Productions plus a special percussion performance by high school students from an Urban Gateways after-school program, a
5presentation by Urban Gateways digital media student/filmmaker Michael Coleman and a gallery of
6 - Shundrawn Thomas and friendincredible student artwork. Urban Gateways educates and inspires young people by delivering high-quality, accessible arts experiences that advance their personal and academic growth. (For more info, please click here!) 

 

1 - Kathleen Henson and her winning teamHuge congrats to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting, Inc.! They were honored with THREE national public relations awards for non-profit communications account work recently at the 2013 PR News Nonprofit PR Awards luncheon at the National Press Club in
2 - RMHC-CNI “Champs for Charity”(Henson Consulting won for Fundraising)Washington, D.C. Henson Consulting, which celebrates its 12th anniversary this year, won in the high-profile Fundraising category, as well as in the areas of Event PR and PR on a Shoestring Budget. “Nothing is more gratifying than the work we do for our nonprofit
3 - Giselle Performance--“Paris at the Harris” (Henson won for PR on a Shoestring Budget)clients,” said HC founder and CEO, Kathleen Henson. “By extending the reach of some of the country’s top charities and arts institutions, both locally and nationally, we’ve had the honor and privilege of being an integral part of
4 - Jane Seymour’s “Open Hearts” Foundation (Henson won for Event PR)supporting families with sick children, creating awareness for amazing cultural experiences, and raising the profile of open hearted individuals among us. It is the most fulfilling work that we do as a firm, and to be honored for excellence
5 - Mayor Emanuel speaking at “Paris at the Harris” ballet premierein this area is very, very special.” In 2011 in honor of the company’s 10th anniversary, Henson created a new division of Henson Consulting called HC3. This practice area is dedicated to providing public relations, marketing and communications support for organizations, companies and individuals that are “doing good while
6 - RMHC-CNI’s “Champs for Charity” press conferencedoing well.” The client roster of HC3 also includes high-profile charitable work for TV personality Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue (supporting autism awareness), Bright Pink and Giuliana Rancic’s Fab-U-Wish (providing support to women battling breast
7 - Jane Seymour and Glenn Campbell at “Open Hearts” fundraiserand ovarian cancer), Greg Olsen’s Kicks for a Cure (supporting breast cancer research) and Camp Kesem (providing magical camp experiences for children whose parents were touched by cancer), among others. Congrats to Kathleen and her team on these much deserved honors! 🙂

 

1 - Jon Cotay and Shea VaughnMarch 9th was a memorable evening for fitness and health maven Shea Vaughn and the dedicated friends and supporters of her cause, Healthy Initiative. “Celebrate Yourself Healthy” took place at Germania Place with hundreds of guests to honor the cause and its mission to promote better health
3 - Lisa Lockwood, Bill Walsh and Maralyn Owen (Kasia Jarosz photo)practices and fight disease. The launch of Healthy Initiative started with forty participants challenged to transform themselves in 90 days with the help nutritionists, personal trainers, mentors and lifestyle regimes. For those
2 - Jeff Conway, Ashley Ferrara, Chris Foltz (Kasia Jarosz photo)people, March 9th was their special day, too: Each was showcased in designs from J-Na Couture and Mark Roscoe with hair by Custom Hair Lounge and makeup by Josie Volpentesta and Brenda Arelano. The night was hosted by Jeff Conway
4 - Kerry Knee, Shea Vaughn, Krista Knee (Larry Engelhardt photo)of NBC’s 24/7, Jon Cotay of Akira and success coach Bill Walsh. This exciting evening included hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, live entertainment by David Rothstein Music, opera by reigning Miss Heart of Illinois Marisa Buchheit, laughter by comedian and writer Jennifer Weigle and a special key note speech by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, bestselling author of “Eat to Live” and wellness advocate often seen on “The Dr. Oz Show.” TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. Congrats on a great event Shea! For more info, please visit healthyinitiative.org.

 

1 - A romantic “Gone With the Wind” moment!“Cutest Couple” alert! Please add Kyla McCarthy and Tim Smithe, Jr. to the list of high profile cuties who are tying the knot this summer! Their blow-out engagement party attracted hundreds of fun-loving friends who were thrilled to
2 - Garry McCarthy, Kyla, Tim Jr. and Tim Smithecelebrate this special occasion with these beautiful/handsome lovebirds. They will be getting married on June 1st (which is Kyla’s grandparent’s 61st wedding anniversary) in Paris where they will say their vows at the Eiffel Tower! Awwwwwww…I love this!
3 - Let the celebration begin!Their families are thrilled beyond measure! Kyla’s beloved grandparents Victoria and Jack Bazarnick have passed but Tim’s grandmother, Florence Smithe, always wears Victoria’s pendant as a way of ensuring that she is always with them. (More awwwwws!) This is a true love
4 - Kyla and Tim with his cousins Cameron and Reid and her sister Kimberlystory made even sweeter by this big family, as four generations of Smithes have embraced Kyla and her family in such a beautiful way. I wish this for all brides and grooms-to-be. Kyla and Tim met over a year ago at CareerBuilder and it was
5 - Kyla admires her grandmother’s pendant on Florence Smithelove at first sight. What Tim says about Kyla: “No matter how stubborn I am, she never quits on me and my faults. I always end up seeing the other side and becoming a better person, a more well-rounded man because she is a part of my life.” Kyla on Tim: “What I love most about my fiancé is his heart. He is
6 - The Mc-Smithe Clansable to connect with any single person on the face of this earth as long as he gets the chance to. When we talk about our future, he talks about our children as if they’re already here (we will be waiting a few years for them) and he is always smiling. It’s his kind heart, and I know it’s my job to protect it.” Their famous fathers-in-law
7 - Kyla and her proud papahave hit it off, too: Walter E. Smithe’s Tim Smithe, Sr. has this to say about Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy: “What more could a father ask than to have his son find a beautiful
8 - Kyla and Tim address their friends and familywoman who makes his boy so very happy? Kyla is the first new Smithe girl of this generation!” Once Tim Jr. asked for Kyla’s hand in marriage, her father said, “You know how to communicate with her, you understand her and I only wish you both the very best.” A graduate of Northeastern University with a double major in clinical psychology and philosophy and with a thesis in existential psychotherapy, Kyla would be a
9 - Kyla and friendsdream match for any smart man – I’m just so thrilled she and Tim found each other. This soon-to-be wedding celebration was
9 - Soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. Tim Smithe, Jr.held at Harry Caray’s Steakhouse (located at 33 W. Kinzie) and included Kimberly McCarthy, Joe Ahern, Deputy Superintendant Al Wysinger, Alderman Ed Burke, Grant DePorter, Mike Ditka, Steve McMichael, Casey Urlacher, Brad Parker, Kyle Badgley and Alex Najem
10 - Loving sisters-Kyla and Kimberly(American Junkie Chicago), RRP president Arturo Gomez, R.J. Melman, Jon and Andrew Landan, Matt Deichl, lots of family from both sides and so many more. I know it’s going to be an exciting and loving place in Ky-Tim’s World. Here’s wishing them the very best! 🙂 Don’t cha just love stories like this?

 

1 - Giuliana and Lindsay—the dream team!E! News” anchor, “Fashion Police” host and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic is once again partnering with national non-profit Bright Pink to launch an exciting new philanthropic initiative: Fab-U-Wish. Fab-U-Wish, which made its debut online March 12th at FabUWish.org, provides young women battling breast and ovarian cancer with the opportunity to spend a day feeling
2 - Giuliana at FabFest“fabulous” by living one of their wildest wishes or dreams. E! will serve as the official media partner of Fab-U-Wish. In 2011, Giuliana went through a public battle with an early stage breast cancer diagnosis, double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. During that challenging time, she relied heavily on the love and support of her husband of five years Bill
3 - Lindsay Avner, Bill and Giuliana Rancic and Val WarnerRancic
, family, close friends, colleagues, fans around the world and Bright Pink founder Lindsay Avner. However, it was the days of having her hair and make-up done at E!, putting on gorgeous designer gowns to interview celebrities on the red carpet or receiving the full Hollywood treatment that helped her feel more like a princess and less like a patient. She realized that her own special form of
4“fab therapy” helped take her mind off her breast cancer battle and remain optimistic, rather than continuously focusing on her illness. “I’m grateful to be where I am today – a new mother, feeling strong and healthy and in a position to help other women now going through what I did,” said Giuliana. “Along with my friend Lindsay
5Avner and the team at Bright Pink, I hope to pay it forward and become a “fairy godmother” to other women by establishing Fab-U-Wish. I sure know firsthand that a little bit of fabulous can go a long way to keep you feeling bright during some of the darkest days.” Applying for a Fab-U-Wish is simple: Women 45 and under currently undergoing treatment for breast and ovarian cancer can submit a 150-word essay or a two-minute video explaining their wish and how this one-of-a-kind indulgence would help bring some
6 - Molly Melman, Lindsay Avner, Anna Treiber, Giuliana Rancic, Julie Hamm and Shenetta Johnsonbrightness to them during treatment. Giuliana and Bright Pink will work together to review applications and select the most inspiring, creative, awesome, fabulous, and bright wishes to be granted each year, thanks to generous supporters and brands. To learn more about Fab-U-Wish and the official application details or to submit your wish, please visit FabUWish.org. Congrats to Giuliana on this wonderful idea and to Lindsay for all you do for so many! 

 

1 - Christopher Clinton Conway on the roof of Joffrey TowerSad news to report! Former Joffrey Ballet Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway is relocating back to Los Angeles after his eight-year tenure with the dance company. As a personal friend, I will miss him
2 - CCC with 2012 Joffrey Gala co-chairs Helen and me!beyond measure but know this is a great opportunity for him. I met CCC at the very first Couture & Cocktails in September 2005. His twinkling eyes and whip-smart wit made everyone want to be his friend. I was lucky to have him as a dear one for so long! He changed the Joffrey in so many
2 - CCC with Joffrey Board member Jan Melk and Beth Silvermanimmeasurable ways and helped make it the world class company it is today. He completed its $40 million capital campaign, he doubled annual giving to the company, he rebranded and reinvigorated the Joffrey
3 - Christopher as a model in a recent Burberry campaignand created unprecedented media and corporate recognition, he recruited a new artistic team after the death of beloved founder Gerald Arpino, he helped design and build the Joffrey Tower (the first permanent headquarters for the company), he helped produce the 2012 hit
4 - With CCC, Pamella Roland and Daniel DeVos at Couture & Cocktailsdocumentary “Mavericks of American Dance,” he launched the “Choreographers of Color” competition in 2010, he increased the Joffrey’s subscription base by 300 percent and he launched the Young Professional’s Board in 2009, among MANY other contributions. So as you can
5 - CCC at a Joffrey eventsee, besides being a CS Man of Style and a Paul Stuart Brand Ambassador, this man worked hard to make Chicago a better place for the arts and it will
6 - CCC with Joffrey Board member Helen Melchiorbe a lesser place without him in it. I wish you the best on your new journey CCC – don’t forget the people here who love you, like me! 🙂 BUT along with this bad news is good news for some lucky person looking for a charming 1928 English cottage home in Park Ridge. Christopher purchased this home for easy access to the airport and it’s now for sale and listed with Doug Smith of Rubloff/Prudential. (Check it out here.) We love you CCC and will miss you more than you can imagine!

 

1 - Tony Abruscato (owner of Chicago Flower & Garden Show), Allison Rosati and Rob StaffordThe Chicago Flower & Garden Show’s preview party “Evening in Bloom” was a bloomin’ success (I know, I know!) and attracted hundreds of Chicagoans who had spring on their minds. Themed the “Art of Gardening,” this
2 - Sam Griffith, Tony, Sandy and Lee Golubyear’s show benefitted several important charities including Chicago Gateway Green (a non-profit dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways), the
3 - Albert Bautista and Pamela FongPeterson Garden Project
(a volunteer non-profit committed to teaching people how to grow their own food), the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (a nonprofit that provides support and assistance to the families of
4 - Jim Althoff and Cathy HullChicago Police Officers killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty), the Kendall College Charitable Trust (a nonprofit dedicated to providing support for students in need who are enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs) and Special Olympics Chicago
5 - Tony Abruscato with Pat Brickhouse(which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities). The preview event showcased nearly two dozen stunning display gardens as
6 - Holly and Matt Murek, Jason and Amy Lundywell as original artworks. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Riva Restaurant, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet as well as sweets from Eli’s Cheesecake. Show director and president Tony Abruscato said, “This is
7 - Sharon Ringierwhere patrons of the arts meet garden and environmental enthusiasts ready to paint the town green for a welcome return to spring.” Guests included Pat Brickhouse, Jim Althoff, Cathy Hull, Joanna and
Grant Deporter, Tony Abuscato and Joanna DeporterGrant DePorter, artist Emmy Star Brown, Casey Schommer, Holly and Matt Murek, Amy and Jason Lundy, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Sa, Griffith, Sandy and Lee Golub, Albert Bautista, Pamela Fong and Sharon Ringier among many others. I never miss this beautiful event and love getting ideas for the garden! Congrats to all!

 

MadHatter Invite Howard BrownThe Mad Hatter’s Brunch, a fundraising event to benefit youth programming and services at the Broadway Youth Center (BYC), will be held April 7th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the fabulous ZED451 in River North. This festive afternoon will allow guests to sport zany and outrageous hats while tasting delectable eclectic specialty dishes from a rich buffet-style spread. Nationally-recognized musical and comedy revue THE KINSEY SICKS – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet will be the featured entertainment. FYI, hats are NOT required to attend and all are welcome! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Special thanks to my sweet friends at WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” – we had a great time taping a segment recently at our home and I never wanted them to leave! If you missed it, here it is below. I especially love the surprise that co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman had for me at the end…how thoughtful are these peeps?! Love to producer Rob Morhaim, too! Just love this show!!!!!!

 

http://assets.delvenetworks.com/player/loader.swf

Well, that’s it for this week’s Candid Candace! Please tell your friends and share!!! 🙂 And, as always, I hope you enjoyed the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights!
 

Charlotte Lynn, Allison and Josh WaltersLove, as always,

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. One of my oldest and dearest friends Ed Howlett just became a grandfather, thanks to his beautiful daughter Allison and handsome son-in-law, Josh Walters. Please welcome dear little Charlotte Lynn Walters to the world!

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MCA’S ARTEDGE: A WONDERFUL CASE OF SENSORY OVERLOAD

…PLUS HAMBURG BALLET; CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR; A BIBLIOPHILE’S DREAM; GUESS WHO WON A TELLY?; LEGENDARY LANDMARKS; WOMEN’S DAY AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW; MISERICORDIA’S GOLD MEDAL WINNER; CRYSTAL HEART BALL; EVENING IN BLOOM; QATAR COMES TO CHICAGO; BUNKY SEES RED AND FUCHSIA; WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Linda Johnson Rice and Julie Latsko having some MCA fun!The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) hosted its annual artEdge fundraising benefit on February 2nd with more than 500 guests in attendance at this never-to-be-forgotten, over-the-top with creativity
2 - Darling performance artistsevent. Chicago’s art lovers, performance enthusiasts and philanthropists gathered at the MCA Warehouse for an evening of factory flair and unique performances, raising $900,000 for MCA
3 - Greg Cameron (L), Greg Thompson (R) and friendsprogramming. Known for its unfettered imagination and thought-provoking events, this year’s artEdge was no exception as the MCA presented an interactive and full-sensory experience where guests were taken on
4 - MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynszetjn, co-chairs Marty Nesbitt and Anita Blancharda journey and transported into a revolutionary, working factory. Notable Chicago attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Amy Rule, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, Tom Shapiro, MCA Board Chair King Harris and wife Caryn, MCA Trustees Marilyn and Larry
5 - Sanjay Sharma and Marilyn and Larry FieldsFields
, MCA Trustee Cari Sacks, MCA Trustee Mary Ittelson, MCA Trustees Lois and Steve Eisen, MCA Deputy Director Janet Alberti, MCA Trustees Stefan Edlis and Gael
6 - Cari Sacks and Mayor Rahm EmanuelNeeson
, artists Theaster Gates, Kerry James Marshall, Dawoud Bay and Kara Walker, Chef Michael Kornick and wife Lisa, EXPO Chicago’s Tony Karman and wife Sondra, Sylvie Leger and Todd Ricketts, Neil Bluhm and Johnson
7 - Sondra and Tony KarmanPublishing CEO Linda Johnson Rice. On a chilly Chicago evening, attendees began their journey by entering through the back alley of the MCA Warehouse, arriving at the destination’s loading dock. Upon
8 - MCA Director of Performance Programs Peter Taub and his darling wifeentering, patrons traveled upstairs to the second floor, where chain link walls and mechanical sounds guided guests into the factory. Awash with rich lighting of yellow, red and orange, the fantastic factory featured graffiti walls by Chicago
9 - Creative food station by George Jewell Cateringartist Hebru Brantley. artEdge co-chairs Anne Kaplan, Anita Blanchard and Martin Nesbitt and Susan and Michael Canmann greeted guests and playfully draped them with “caution” tape, preparing them for the evening of factory fun as they punched in timecards for entry. The space
10 - With Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecori, Lucien LaGrange and Melinda Jakovichfeatured three different rooms and each held a distinctive dining experience for guests. Throughout the evening, guests dined buffet-style and enjoyed a variety of delicacies from Jewell Events Catering served by factory workers wearing gloves and navy
11 - Gretchen and Jay Jordanblue factory coats. The first room guests arrived in – the Chain Link Room – featured scrumptious hors d’oeuvres of onion rings, fried mushrooms, pub chips and popcorn cleverly attached to chain-linked walls. Patrons were treated to an ensemble of performers, hanging high above on
12 - Rebecca Ford, Les Coney and Regina Taylorchains and entertaining guests with their impressive theatrics. Jyldo and Peter Taub, MCA Director of Performance Programs, curated all performances for the evening and they were awe-inspiring with a touch of the risqué which had many guests popping out
Naomi Beckwith and McArthur Biniontheir cell phones to record the incredible imagery. The show-stopping crowd, dressed uniquely in industrial chic cocktail attire, entered the Cafeteria Room, which featured a spinning “turn table,” where guests could sit while dining on tins of
14 - Vivian Teng, Michael Kutza and Mimi Plauchemacaroni and cheese, baked potatoes with chipped beef and tuna casserole. The highlight of the room was the “dry cleaning rack,” which featured an oscillating rack of assorted meats and cheeses hanging from hooks that guests were able to both admire and eat.
15 - Fitz and the Tantrums blow the doors off for the after-partyAfter experiencing the Cafeteria Room, guests continued the adventure, arriving in the Corrugated Room where performance troupes amused guests with sporadic, spirited performances on an illuminated stage. The Corrugated Room included a
16 - MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejnbuffet wall with an assortment of salads including cumin and carrot salad, Mediterranean faro salad and kale and Brussels sprout salad as well as a variety of soups served in trashcan-inspired containers. Following the dining hours, groups traveled downstairs to the first floor, for a special concert performance from indie pop and soul group, Fitz and The Tantrums.
17 - Soup and chili served from garbage cansBefore the performance, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn gathered the co-chairs on stage for welcoming remarks, thanking them for
20 - Stairwell performance artisttheir dedication and support to the museum. An extravagant lighting display and distinct guitar chords signaled the arrival of Fitz and The Tantrums to the stage. The lively performance featured the band’s signature tunes and had guests dancing, Dancing, DANCING! During the concert performance, guests enjoyed
18a Rubber Bar and dessert reception, featuring a special “donut wall” that had to be seen to be believed: Created cleverly with pegboards, the “donut wall” was a favorite among attendees and included four different types of donuts. The VIP Rubber Bar doubled as an apothecary, with
19oversized jars filled to the brim with gummy bears, peach rings and different flavors of licorice. It was an evening I’ll never forget and was one of the best parties I’ve ever attended. Gala co-chairs, MCA staff and Heffernan Morgan’s Bill
22 - Donuts served from pegboardsHeffernan
collaborated to create this magical evening and were inspired by the fact that this venue was indeed at one time a factory, so they brought it back to its original roots in grand style! Kudos to the co-chairs and to the MCA –
23 - Aaron Shirley (R) and cute friendsthey always kick it up a notch for each and every event. All proceeds from this hugely successful factory-inspired fete will support MCA programming. Don’t miss any of their events, check out their website here! (Additional photos by Mila Samokhina.)

 

1 - Hamburg Ballet’s Director-Choreographer John Neumeier, Joan Harris, King and Caryn Harris and the MayorThe internationally-acclaimed Hamburg Ballet made its highly-anticipated Chicago debut at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance performing the full-length ballet, “Nijinsky.” Created
2 - Lee Blackwell Baur, Harris Exec. Dir. Michael Tiknis and Dori Wilsonby John Neumeier, the company’s director and chief choreographer for the past 40 years, this touching ballet had the sellout crowd enthralled. Before opening night, the Harris Theater Board of Trustees held a
3 - Phil Lumpkin, Carroll Joynes and Helen Melchiorspecial pre-performance reception to welcome the company to town as it launched its 2013 U.S. Tour. The visit was a homecoming for the Milwaukee-born Neumeier, who spent time in Chicago learning about dance as a young student. Dance supporter Mayor Rahm Emanuel was in attendance to join in the
4 - Hamberg Ballet by Holger Badekowwelcoming festivities with theater board members, theater president and managing director Michael Tiknis, as well as dignitaries, Consul Generals and officials representing six countries. The opening night performance received a standing ovation from the audience and rave reviews from critics. (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

 

1 - CCC Artistic Director Josephine Lee celebrating after Sita RamI loved seeing the Chicago Children’s Choir perform in the blockbuster theater production of “Sita Ram” recently at the Harris Theater. And now, under the direction of president and artistic director Josephine Lee, they
2 - CCC at the Taj Mahalparticipated in a 10-day tour of India, with stops in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Chennai and Bangalore for concerts presented by the Jaipur Literature Festival and the U.S. Embassy. “Chicago Children’s Choir is proud to serve as global ambassadors of our great city and the country,” said Lee. “These children are truly the Voice of Chicago and this tour gave them the opportunity to experience the rich
3 - CCC with Bombay Jayashri and vocalist P. Unnikrishnan in Chennaiculture of India while exhibiting the power of music to unite people through our performances and exchanges.” Throughout India, 45 singers from the world-renowned Concert Choir showcased music from “Sita Ram,” the organization’s world musical based on the ancient Hindu epic “Ramayana,” and performed selections from their diverse
4 - CCC performs for the Salaam Balaak Trustrepertoire spanning classical, world, gospel and popular music. In addition to scheduled performances, the Choir conducted workshops with children from The Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit that provides support for street and working children in inner cities of New Delhi and Mumbai. The Concert Choir is the most advanced Chicago Children’s Choir ensemble, with children ages 12-18 selected from thousands in Chicago Children’s Choir Programs throughout the city. (For more info, please visit www.ccchoir.org.)

 

Bookstellyouwhy_1352583180If you love books, you should know of this wonderful international bookseller, Books Tell You Why. Established in South Carolina in 2002, this company is one of the leading sources for rare and autographed books. I was honored when they asked to interview me for their book blog. (Read here!) I never get tired of reading and talking about rare books and love the wonderful stories surrounding great finds: A copy of Edgar Allan Poe’s first book, “Tamarlane,”
Bookswas found in a Goodwill shop and recently, a young man cleaning out his deceased grandfather’s library came across a signed copy of “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley, whose signature is rarer than hen’s teeth! It’s a fun hobby and this is the website to check out to get started yourself!

 

Telly AwardsI hope you are all fans and followers of my Watch312.com show, “Candid Candace Chicago.” Our most recent video covers a hilarious night of comedy at “Laugh Out Loud” with Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and darling former Bear Jerry Azumah! Their famous friends came out to support them and it’s all captured
Chuck with Watch312 crew, Alonzo Stallings,  Josh Orr, Abe Pina, Ashley Stevenson and Brian Person (front)here on my show! I'm also very excited to report that one of my show segments won a TELLY AWARD (Tellys honor the very best film and video productions, groundbreaking online video content, and outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs!!) (See the award winning segment here!) Congrats to my Watch312.com editor Josh Orr (check out his scary Vanishing Point films here!), Watch312.com executive producer Bill Natale and crack cameramen Alonzo Stallings, Fred Jackson and Abe Pina! More to come!!! 

 

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1 - 2013 honorees John W. McCarter and Leslie HindmanThe 2013 Legendary Landmarks Celebration will honor Leslie Hindman, John W. McCarter and Target at the Four Seasons Hotel on March 7th. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception followed by dinner, a live auction and an awards ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. in the Ballroom. Honoree Leslie Hindman founded Leslie Hindman Auctioneers
2 - Heather Becker, Grace Barry (LL honoree 2012), and Jane Nicholl Sahlins (LL honoree 2008)in 1982 and for the past three decades, she has remained a constant force behind high profile auctions. My personal friendship with Leslie began when she discovered a Van Gogh painting in an attic; I attended the auction (did NOT buy the Van Gogh) and we've been friends ever since. She is not only an amazing businesswoman but she is loved by all who know her. (Leslie will be presented by John H. Bryan.) As president of the Field Museum of Natural History Chicago, honoree John W.
Landmarks 2013 invite imageMcCarter
has served the museum for the last 16 years. He is a fellow of the American Academy of the Arts and Sciences and serves on many high-profile boards. McCarter graduated from Princeton University, has an
John-bryanMBA from Harvard Business School and also attended the London School of Economics. (John will be presented by Kim White.) Minneapolis-based Target Corporation opened its first store in 1962 and today serves guests at nearly 1,800 trend-forward discount retail stores and at Target.com. Target entered the Chicago market almost 20 years ago and today has 11 stores within the city limits and more than 50 in the metropolitan area. (Target will
Kim White and John McCarter (Photo by Tonya Hall)be presented by Marty Stern.) The Chicago Sun-Times' Bill Zwecker will serve as emcee and the event will be co-chaired by Joseph Antunovich and Janet Rotner and the celebration committee includes Madeline Gelis, Shelley Gorson and Karen Prieur. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Landmarks Illinois Preservation Heritage Grant Fund, which has made more than 80 grants providing essential assistance for the revitalization of historically and architecturally significant properties. Hope to see YOU there! For tickets and more info, please click here or call 312.553.2000.


1 - Patrick McCarthy’s gold medalCongrats to Oak Park native and Misericordia Heart of Mercy Home resident Patrick McCarthy: He recently won a gold medal for speed skating in the Special Olympics! His gold came in the 777m speed skating category and he also
2 - Patrick with Apolo Ohnowon a bronze medal in the 500m and finished fourth in the 333m, while attending the Special Olympics World Games from January 29th through February 5th in South Korea. On February 2nd, Patrick was seeded fifth out of sixth in the 777m races. In the semi-final he skated 11 seconds faster than his personal best, finishing in first place and advancing to the finals.
3 - Patrick with his mom and dadWhile competing against speed skaters from Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Austria and Hong Kong, Patrick was able to shave off an additional four seconds for a personal best finishing in first place to win a gold medal! Olympic gold medal-winning American speed skaters Apolo Ohno and Dan Jansen were both on hand to congratulate Patrick’s Team USA and skate a unified relay race. The 23-year-old has been a resident at Misericordia Heart of
4 - Receiving his gold medalMercy Home since 2010. The Home, located on the north side of Chicago, supports more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities. Patrick, who has Down syndrome, has been an active participant in Special Olympics since he was eight years old and is a member of the Misericordia Special Olympics team in aquatics,
5 - Patrick winning on the iceathletics, golf, basketball, and power lifting. His career on the ice began in August of 2000 with the Tomahawks, a special needs hockey team sanctioned by Amateur Hockey Association Illinois. Patrick began speed skating to improve his hockey skills but soon discovered his love of the sport and began competing one year later. (He currently trains with the Evanston Speed Skating Club.)  Huge congrats Patrick and to learn more about Misericordia Heart of Mercy, please click here!)

 

1 - Beth Rosen introduces the honoreesThe Chicago Auto Show was THE place to be this year for Women’s Day on February 12th. Hundreds of women came out to peruse the latest auto trends and attend the inaugural Women Driving Excellence event.
2 - Anupy and her daughter with honoree Corri McFadden and co-host Debi LillyThis first-time networking event was hosted by Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Salzman, Barbara Rozgonyi, Saya Hillman, MJ Tam and Beth Rosen and presented by Broadway in Chicago, Cars.com,
3 - Beth Rosen, Debi Lilly, Barbara Rozgonyi, Elisa All, Saya Hillman, Jill SalzmanRedEye
, Chicago Tribune
and Monika Dixon PR. It was a chance to mix and mingle, sample spa and wellness services and enjoy the show. I was honored to be included as one of the speakers for its Women Driving Excellence presentation that also included
4 - Luvvie Ajayi shares her storyAnupy Singla
(celebrity author and entrepreneur and Chicago Now blogger), Corri McFadden (E-DropOff founder), Genevieve Thiers (Sittercity founder/serial entrepreneur), Karen Weigert (the Mayor’s Chief Sustainability Officer) and Luvvie Ajayi (The Red Pump Project co-founder). Every
5 - Women Driving Excellence Trailblazer Awardsspeaker was inspiring and had incredible stories to share about how they “start, accelerate, fuel and steer others to excellence.” The event also included a Broadway in Chicago “I Love Lucy” stage performance. I will treasure my award and this special day shared with inspiring women – congrats to all! Darling reporter LeeAnn Trotter summed up the event perfectly here in her NBC coverage below…thanks for being there, LeeAnn! 

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1 - Dr. Sujal Desai, Puja Desai and Brian MagnaboscoLittle Company of Mary Hospital’s Foundation
hosted its 23rd annual Crystal Heart Ball on February 2nd at the Field Museum featuring the Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts exhibit. The emcee was Little Company of Mary’s very own Patrick Elwood
2 - Sallie Lizcano and Bill Gaede(Fox 32 Chicago). More than 830 guests danced the night away to the music of the Indigo Orchestra while perusing more than 200 rare, sparkling artifacts including elaborate jewelry, ornate weaponry, royal costumes, and stunning artwork of the “great king,” the Maharaja. This premiere gala raised more than $467,000 for “Values, Vision, Innovation: the
3 - Crystal Heart Ball at Field MuseumCampaign for Little Company of Mary Hospital
.” The Mary Potter Humanitarian Award was presented to Harmony, Hope & Healing (HHH) and accepted by its founder, Marge Nykaza. (HHH is a non-profit organization that provides creative, therapeutic and educational music programs, offering spiritual and emotional support to
4 - Kevin and Ann Garvey and Liz and Steve Bensonhomeless and underserved women, children and men in the Chicago area.) The Sister Nancy Boyle Award for Excellence was presented to The Cancer Center’s Integrative Therapy Department of Little Company of Mary Hospital. Susan Arnold, R.N., B.S.N., M.S., Director of Patient Care Services, accepted this honor on behalf of the Integrated Therapy team. Dr. Irving and Shirley Fuld chaired the
5 - Nancy and Bob Barrett and Mike and Monica Careyfundraising event along with their co-chairs, Mr. Matt and Mrs. Mary Ellen Filosa. They presented four cash raffle prizes as well as a raffle prize of an 18-karat gold agate yellow sapphires and white diamonds bracelet won by Matt Kavanaugh. The grand prize cash raffle of $15,000 went to Francis J. O’Donovan. For more information on Little Company of Mary’s Foundation Department or to learn how you can donate, please visit www.LCMH.org/foundation.

 

1Evening in Bloom,” an exclusive first-look preview event of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show opens on March 8th. The event is from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Festival Hall at Chicago’s Navy Pier and heralds the arrival of spring in the city. The theme of
Chicago flower and garden show 2010-3the 2013 Chicago Flower & Garden Show is The Art of Gardening. The show opens to the public at 10 a.m. on March 9 and runs daily through March 17th. A portion of the proceeds from “Evening in Bloom” benefit Chicago Gateway Green, a non-profit
FGS-blooms-2organization dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways; Peterson Garden Project, a volunteer non-profit organization committed to teaching people how to grow their own food; the Kendall College Charitable Trust, a nonprofit
FGS-closeuporganization dedicated to providing support for students of need enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs; and Special Olympics Chicago, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The preview event
FGS-wall-bloomswill showcase nearly two dozen stunning display gardens, as well as original artworks in a variety of forms. Guests will have an opportunity to meet several artists, whose works will be shown during the event. As they mingle in the garden “gallery,” guests will sample fine wines and a variety of hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants as well as enjoy a garden-themed regional cake competition on the closing day. For tickets ($125 each) and more info, please visit www.chicagoflower.com.

 

John Cannon and Cary FrankDrum roll please: And the Chicago Interior Design Firm of the Year issssssssss…CANNON FRANK! In a contest sponsored by Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine and the Design Center at the Merchandise Mart, Cary Frank and John Cannon’s creative company won top honors! Congrats on your wonderful partnership, both professionally and personally! 🙂

 

1 - Bunky and his beautiesBunky Cushing
did it again! For his 20th annual Valentine’s Day Tea held in the Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton, more than 100 of our town’s movers and shakers turned out in force to celebrate with this beloved Chicago
2 - Dr. Stacie McClane Mickelson and Myra Reillyicon. For the first time, the invite offered guests the option of dressing in either fuchsia, pink or red as opposed to the previous “Ladies Please Wear Red” request. This annual tea – now privately known as the “Red Heart 100” – has been called “one of Chicago’s most sought-after-invitations” by Harper’s Bazaar. Attendees included Mary Pat Burns, Sharyl Mackey, Sherry Lea Holson, Lynda Silverman, Robin Segesta, Laurie
3 - With Rochelle Trotter, Nina Mariano and Toni CanadaDavis, Nina Mariano, Toni Canada, Myra Reilly, Hazel Barr, Jean Antoniou, Stacie Mickelson, Eileen Weinberg, Felicia Winiecki, Diane Edelman, Greg Hyder, Dan Uslan, JP Anderson, Sherrill
4 - Mary Pat Burns and Sharyl MackeyBodine, Megan McKinney, Rochelle Trotter, Mary Ann Rose, Darby Hills, Tina Weller, Cathy Bell (newly engaged!), Sheree Valukas, Amalie Drury, Rebecca Besser, Martha Wallace, Ann Wallace and Heather Farley Ingram among others. Bunky has been a fixture on the city’s philanthropic
5 - Heather Ingram, friend, Felicia Winnecke, Ann Wallace, Mary Pat Burns, Martha Wallace & Jean Antoniouscene for as long as I can remember. He hosts annual fundraisers that benefit the Howard Brown Clinic as well as the Jane Addams Senior Caucus. The Chicago Tribune has called Bunky “an arbiter of style for the
6 - Laurie Davis, Sherrill Bodine, Myra, Megan McKinney and Darby Hillscrème de la crème of Chicago society,” and Vogue has called him “Chicago’s social tugboat.” He has been associated with Ralph Lauren for more than 25 years as a consultant, his time with the company taking him to
7 - Michigan Ave. Mag’s JP Anderson and Dan Uslan with Vicky HoodNew York, Miami, and finally settling in Chicago in 1990. His weekly column, “Squire of Society,” is not to be missed! Thanks for all you do Bunky! (To see ALL pics from this always amazing event, please click here!)

 

Qatar-airways-planeOn April 10th, Qatar Airways will officially honor Chicago as its newest gateway! A VIP host committee met recently at the Waldorf for a luncheon to learn more about this five-star airline and what their plans are for our fair city. I was happy to learn that they plan on becoming involved in the communities, spreading some love to our local
Qatar logo imagescharities while increasing their visibility. Qatar’s Rebecca Jelfo welcomed the group and said, “This partnership with Chicago will bring an estimated $250 million and thousands of jobs to the community.” I was honored to
Flight attendants imagesbe a part of this committee who also included Israel Idonije, Christopher Clinton Conway, Linda Johnson Rice, Les Coney, Alexi Giannoulias, Lindsay Avner, Sheila King, Tracy Schmidt, Wendy Krimins, Greg Hyder, Kedzie Schotters, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Jon and Andrew Landan, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, Shawn Baldwin, Keene Addington, Angela Schoenhard, Justin Jacobson, JP Anderson, Katherine and Abigail Tarbox and Laurie Davis among others. Welcome to Chicago, Qatar…this will be the beginning of a beautiful friendship! 

 

46903_411976738892194_717203530_nA Drink With Chicago
is hosting a charity comedy event on February 19, at The Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway. Co-founder Kelly Kane and Hillary Sawchuk will be interviewing the comedians on stage as well as over a drink, of course! Proceeds will benefit Rescue Our Angels which raises funds for families in need to receive autism treatment. Jenny McCarthy's Generation Rescue Foundation will then distribute the funds raised through their grant program. For tickets and more info, please click here!

 

The Night of the Matador Event Invitation 2-23-13-page-001Night of the Matador” will be held on February 23rd from 9 p.m. to midnight at Tavernita, located at 151 W. Erie. This event – themed “Old Spain” – will benefit the Equestrian Connection, which is one of the largest therapeutic riding centers in the country. Treating more than 300 children and adults with disabilities, this charity improves the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing by providing equine therapeutic programs. For tickets, $40, and more info, please click here!

 

Little City Poker Tourney 3-9Get your poker face on! The Little City Foundation and Spex – Chicago’s favorite stop for luxury eyewear – will co-host “Seeing Hope Together” on March 9th at the Hard Rock Hotel. This exciting poker tournament and casino night will support children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities and include an eyewear trunk show, all-night lavish buffet, open bar and swag bags! Spex Director of Marketing Michael Caputo and Little City Executive Director Shawn Jeffers hope to see YOU there! For tickets ($150), and more info, please click here

 

Cameron Can Foundation Overview-page-001Cameron Rocks On!” will be held at Rockit Bar & Grill, located at 22 W. Hubbard on March 14th. Join honorary co-chair Antonio Romanucci and The Friends of Cameron for a night of fun and heart-felt giving to help kids with disabilities as they raise funds to provide care for Declan Keddy, whose Irish heritage inspired the event. The night will also support the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Patient Emergency Fund as well as the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation. For tickets ($125), and more info, please click here!


UPDATED_Glossed & Found + Monika Dixon PR Oscar Event at Public Hotel(1)I know there are a lot of Oscar parties planned but the one I’ll be attending will be at PUBLIC Hotel (located at 1300 N. State Pkwy.) hosted by GlossedandFound.com’s Graham Kostic, Monika Dixon, Alexis Cozzini, Jessie Kalin and Darnell Robinson. From 6:30 to 10 p.m., enjoy the Academy Awards in style with champagne and hors d’oeuvres plus a chance to win a Best Dressed Award! Tickets ($50) are available at the door or online here

That’s it for this week! Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Candid Candace and I hope you’ll follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) and Facebook (Candid Candace)! And don’t miss my Candid Candace column every week in the Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine!
 

Marc and Ryan Sievers on Food NetworkLove, as always!

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 

P.S. Congrats to Chicago entrepreneurs and dynamic chef duo, Marc J. Sievers and Ryan L. Sievers, who competed on – and won – the Chicago episode of “Bobby’s Dinner Battle” on the Food Network! Woot woot!

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KING OF COMEDY STEVE HARVEY SETS SIGHTS ON CHICAGO!

…PLUS SERVICE CLUB GOES TO THE RACES, A “PERFECT” EMAG, LINDA CLIFFORD’S “ONE NIGHT STAND,” WHERE YOU SHOULD BE FOR FNO, FRANCES HAS A NEW “JEWEL,” ZACUTO FOUNDER TURNS 50, JANE SEYMOUR’S OPEN HEART, TOM TAKES ST. TROPEZ, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO, CHICAGO TRIBUNE WHITE HOUSE DISCUSSION AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Steve and Marjorie Harvey with Larry WertIn a stroke of genius, NBC Universal has nabbed popular entertainer Steve Harvey for his own show, “The Steve Harvey Show,” premiering today, September 4th. The Launch Party at the Hard Rock Café on August 22nd was by-invite-only and featured Blog 2 - Larry surrounded by a bevy of NBC Beautiesa live performance by Jeffrey Osbourne. Everyone was in high spirits and excited to meet this one man media empire. From his comedy throne, he has parlayed his genius into best-selling books (“Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man”), movies (“The Blog 3 - Linda Johnson Rice, Marjorie Harvey and Desiree RogersOriginal Kings of Comedy”), television roles, game show host (“Family Feud”), clothing lines, a dating website, a charitable foundation (The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation), a production company, a social media branding company, online Blog 4 - Margaret O’Connor and Jeffrey Osbournehair and wig stores and now, his very own talk show based right here in Chicago! He will be relocating his family – gorgeous wife Marjorie and two kids (ages 15 and 16) – here shortly. Since his kids are home-schooled, he joked that, “They would be shipping a lot of people here.” He joked to NBC’s President and Blog 5 - Richard Dent, Otis Wilson and “Big Cat” Williams with cute friendsGeneral Manager Larry Wert, “There’s gonna be a charge back!” The Hard Rock was packed with friends and fans and he worked the room with a huge smile on his face and seemed especially glad to see his old friend, Abe Thompson, with whom he’d worked with starting out at WGCI. In his comments, he gave Blog 6 - Deborah O. Brown, Crystal Peters, Larry Wert, and Jacinta FisherAbe a shout-out from the stage and joked that Larry Wert went down on one knee to beg his wife to come to Chicago. “I’m blessed to be here and happy to see a lot of my friends from WGCI like Abe Thompson. There’s this Blog 7 - LaRue Martin, Stella Foster (R) and friendthing called fate. I really should be installing spark plugs! I don’t know how all this business works, I just know what my cut is…I just appreciate it all…I’ve developed over the years. I’ve become a real husband, a real father. I’m really just Blog 8 - DuSable’s Carol Adams (R) and frienda general market guy,” said Harvey. When it was recently suggested that his audience was mostly African American, he replied, “You can’t sell three million books
to just black people. Everybody is already in the tent.” And then he Blog 10 - Art Norman and friend Priscilla Strattenintroduced R & B singer/musician/songwriter, Jeffrey Osbourne. “His voice hasn’t changed one bit since I first heard him,” said Harvey. Osbourne enchanted the crowd, and when he sang his highest charting solo hit, “You Should Be Mine (the Woo Woo Song)”, the crowd went wild. He Blog 9 - Crowd scene at Hard Rock Cafébrought people up on stage to sing with him and then said, “Folks, I need a white person to sing the woo woo!” Saran Dunmore pushed Margaret O’Connor onto the stage while partygoers chanted, “Go Margaret, Go!” It was a joyous celebration for, what will most Blog 11 - Laura Baron and Brenda Arelanocertainly, be a big hit for NBC Universal! In a fantastic feature article this month in Ebony Magazine, Harvey shared his “8 Secrets to Make Millions” – 1) Be the best, 2) Have an unbeatable work ethic, 3) Take care of Blog 12 - Steve has the whole world in his hands!your temple, 4) Bounce back from failure, 5) Build on your brand, 6) Surround yourself with the right people, 7) Be a rule breaker, and 8) Give back. It’s clear to see he has the right recipe for success! Blog 14 - Daniella Guzman with Jaime ViteriGuests seen in the crowd included Deborah O. Brown, Dionne Williams, Hermene Hartman, Saran Dunmore, Margaret O’Connor, Jodi Balfour, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Angela and Abe Thompson, Richard Dent, Laura Baron (who will appear on his first show), Stefan Holt, “Big Cat” Blog 13 - Steve with longtime friend Abe ThompsonWilliams, Brenda Arelano, Daniella Guzman, LaRue Martin, Carol Adams, Otis Wilson, Alicia Roman, Marion Brooks, Rob Stafford, Art Norman, Jacinta Fisher, Priscilla Stratten, Stella Foster and so many more! Long may you reign Steve and NBC! (“The Steve Harvey Show” will air on NBC 5 weekdays at 2 p.m. beginning September 4th) I’ll be WATCHING! (To see ALL fab party pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

 
Blog 1 - Dick Duchossois and Sherrill BodineThe 4th annual Service Club Day at the Races was held at Arlington Park Race Track on Sunday, August 18th. More than 130 guests sported their best fedoras, fascinators and hats to attend this event that raised more than $17,000 for the SC’s Blog 2 - Bob and Nina Mariano with Russ and Tracy Scurtogrant program. The event was held in the Governor’s Room and chaired by Diane Freeman. The room looked gorgeous with tables topped with bottles of Prosecco donated by John Cressman of Worldwide Wines. The centerpieces were overflowing with red Blog 3 - Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul and Ball co-chair Elizabeth Brodskyroses surrounding silver horses by Tom Kehoe Design. The day also included an exciting Kentucky Derby raffle with the winner receiving two Clubhouse tickets to the Derby and a $1,500 travel voucher. The Service Club of Chicago has continually Blog 4 - Sheree and Jim Valukasserved the welfare, civic, educational and cultural needs of Chicago and surrounding communities since 1890. Every single dollar raised goes directly to charity. (Pretty pics by Steve Starr.) And speaking of the Service Club of Chicago, check out my Watch312.com video from their fabulous Day on the Terrace fashion show and luncheon! Lots of fab fashions worn by fab ladies AND gentlemen – congrats!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?height=360&embedCode=F1eXhxNTrsQud8tvvAUUzVf2YIytdfuh&deepLinkEmbedCode=F1eXhxNTrsQud8tvvAUUzVf2YIytdfuh&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=640


Blog 1Leave it to Debi Lilly (brainchild of A Perfect Event) to come up with the idea for a purrrrfect eMag! She designed the first issue while wandering the streets of Paris…nice place for inspiration! This seasonal quarterly e-magazine (that debuted September 1st) is designed to share the latest trends, tips, themes and styles in and around Chicago plus feature the fabulous world of celebrations, Blog 2 - Debi Lilly and her cute kids frolic in Paris!holidays, parties and more! For the style savvy, educated bunch looking for serious visual content, this eMag will provide readers with inspiring solutions to their entertaining needs with constant word of mouth and social media content through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, blogs and more. With insight from industry insiders who include Graham Kostic Blog 3 - My segment!  So excited!(Insta.GRAHAM), Amanda Puck (The Foodarazzi and Watch312.com host), Ryan Beshel (Runway Report from 900 N), Ben Newby (Mixologist of the Moment), Melissa Skoog (On Her Plate), Matt Woodburn (Light Up the Night), DJ Megan Taylor (Spinning Now), and moi (Behind the Scenes of Causes We Love)! Even some of Debi’s ultra-chic Parisian friends will be sharing their international views. And with input from Chicago’s celebrations guru Rachel Schwanz, this eMag is bound to explode! So watch your inboxes and check your social media for this cool eMag! 🙂 (Holiday issue coming November 1st!) To see the exquisite debut issue, please click here!
 
Garden of EveMark your calendars for “Garden of Eve,” coming Friday, September 14th to the River East Art Center (located at 435 E. Illinois) beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be co-chaired by Austin Baidas, Amy Crawford, Emily Fry, Meshell NdegeochelloVernita Gray, Pat Ewert, Alma Izquierdo and Liza Martinez. Benefitting the Howard Brown Health Center and its Lesbian Community Care Project (LCCP), the 4th annual signature fundraiser will support women’s health and wellness services and programs for uninsured women. Ted_allen_choppedThe event’s VIP reception will be hosted by Ted Allen, host of Food Network’s “Chopped.” Entertainment will be provided by 10-time Grammy nominee Meshell Ndegeocello whose music includes a variety of influences including funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, R & B, rock and jazz. (For tickets and more info, please click here or call 773.572.5117.)
 
090612 FNO North Bridge FINALThere is so much going on for Fashion’s Night Out on Thursday, September 6th and these are two of my favorites! First up, the Shops at North Bridge (located at 520 N. Michigan Ave.) will feature the ultimate fall fashion challenge beginning at 6 p.m. Judges will decide which local fashionista or blogger will win the prize for best fall looks. Competing stylists include Amy Blog 2 - Celebrity host Ali LarterOlson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi Sheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos, Amanda Wolfson and Dee Brodlo. Judges include Windy City Live’s Jessie Kalin, ULTA Beauty’s Carrie Lannon, NS Mag’s Elaine Doremus, CS Mag’s Katie Schroeder and Lisa Shames, Fashion Group International’s Lisa Ackerman and moi! The after-party will be at Roof at The WIT from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. See you there! My other favorite FNO will be “Fame, Fashion and Flavor” at 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops from 6 Blog 3 - With Eric Himel, Sarah Burrows, Victoria Malkin and Graham Kosticp.m. until 9 p.m. The shops will be transformed into a multi-level event space featuring a flash fashion show styled by Eric Himel, a glam beauty bazaar by Bloomingdale’s and Mario Tricoci, a Gastronomony by Groupon tasting with bites Blog 1from top Chicago restaurants, DJs, Glossed & Found photo opps, in-store parties and so much more! There will also be a VIP Lounge hosted by the stunning Ali Larter. Besides the 900 Shops, this cool event is hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine, McGrath Lexus and Acura of Downtown Chicago!! Can’t wait to parteeeee!!! (To see a more complete list of events, please click here!)
 
OneNight_06_02_smallChicago House is excited to premiere an all new event fundraiser to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to assist families and individuals affected by HIV and AIDS. “ONE NIGHT STAND will be an explosive, multi-sensory dance party wrapped around a live concert,” explained Jeremy Hilborn, Chicago House’s Manager of Special Events. “It’s a full buffet of sights and sounds, built around an experiential concert,” Hilborn continued. For its inaugural year, the new event – inspired by a popular dance recording artist and icon Linda Clifford – will feature her in a custom designed, immersive nightclub environment. From grinding go-go boys to a diva star with a full band to DJ Resized_slacks & shirtlessMathew Harvat offering up the beats, ONE NIGHT STAND will rock a VERY transformed Park West on Saturday, September 15th beginning at 8:00 p.m. Chicago House brought some major players to the table in developing the event in its first year. Keith Elliott (Dance for Life Chicago/Chicago Takes Off) and Tony Savino (Dance for Life Palm Springs) bring more than 20 years of experience in performance based fundraising to create this exciting new addition to the Chicago House event calendar. Tickets to ONE NIGHT STAND start at $35 for balcony seating, and range up to $200. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here or call 773-248-5200 x303.

Blog 1 - The Birthday Boy!Steve Weiss, co-founder of Zacuto – one of the world’s largest film making accessories, sales and rental companies – celebrated his big 5-0 recently with a weekend long celebration in Old Town. Friends and Blog 2 - Birthday peeps—Steve and Isabel Weissfamily flew in from as far away as Australia to honor Steve and his 9-year-old daughter, Isabel, on the occasion of their double birthdays: Steve’s 50th and Isabel’s 9th. The party began at their
historic house Blog 3 - Lucyna Wojtas (aka Mrs. Weiss) surrounded by admirersin Old Town (known as the “Yellow House”) with a cocktail reception. A trolley squeezed its way down our narrow streets to pick up all of the partygoers. After a stop for more friends at the Sutton Place Hotel, we Blog 4 - Christina Wojtas and friendswinded our way down Lake Shore Drive to our final destination, the “Gypsy Spirit” docked in Burnham Harbor. There was more food than anyone could imagine with more drinks than we should’ve been Blog 5 - Cara and Jens Bogehegn and friendsserved but the night couldn’t have been a more perfect celebration for this accomplished man who started his company with partner/friend Jens Bogehegn in 2000. Their company has garnered so many awards, including Blog 6 - Steve and the boat people!numerous Emmys, Silver Telly Awards and Chicago Film Festival honors as well as recently ranking 8th in the top 100 for Video Production and Filmmakers Who Know Social Media and Viral Marketing. Others Blog 7 - Isabel surprised on her 9th BD!on this prestigious list included YouTube, Vimeo, Weinstein & Co., HBO Documentaries and James Cameron. Yikes – pretty great company, Steve! Anyway, it was a perfect summer evening, the kind you dream about all winter long…and as the boat Blog 8 - Tim Cruzfloated over the smooth-as-glass lake, I counted my blessings looking at our magnificent skyline. The trip through the locks was so exciting but, sadly, made me realize how many people should NOT be driving their own boats. And the fireworks, of course, never disappoint. Steve’s glamorous Blog 9 - Entering the lockswife, Lucyna, along with her equally glam sister Christina, presented a whimsical “cake” with Steve’s face on hundreds of cupcakes…her speech was so loving and touching as well. Darling Isabel was dressed like she’d just Blog 10 - Mini-Steve cupcakes!stepped off the pages of Vogue with her stacked bracelets, scarf worn French-style, a jaunty cap and oversized sunglasses. Her beautiful cake was a surprise (and believe me, there’s not much that escapes/surprises Isabel!) but on this night, she was so excited! It was a fabulous family affair filled with love, frivolity, dancing and great friends. We were thrilled and honored to be included. Happy, happy birthday wishes to a special family in Old Town and someone you should know… 🙂

 
460_345_resizeThe Italian Village and the Ferrari Club team up for the 15th annual “Ferrari
s in the Loop
” – an event that kicks off Italian Village’s 85 years of serving Chicago. All of the proceeds for this event go directly to the Inspiration Corporation and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Sixty high-performance vehicles, including vintage and newer model Ferraris, will be featured at the only Chicago stop the Club will make this year. The Loop will be closed down on Monroe from Dearborn to Clark Street. During the event, the Italian Village will offer an all-you-can-eat and drink Italian feast for a $30 donation (including beer and wine). To learn more, please visit www.italianvillage-chicago.com

 
Frances Renk and SiennaA special congrats to new mom Frances Renk on the birth of her first child – darling daughter Sienna, who weighed in at 9 pounds. (I’m not so sure her svelte mom weighs much more than this!) I can already envision Sienna bejeweled in fabulous designs from Sequin. Love you FR and huge congrats to you and your sweet husband!
 
PR maven Kathleen Henson has the coolest friends! When she casually invited me to lunch at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab Restaurant, I had no idea I would be dining with her Jennifer Boroff, Kathleen Henson, Jane Seymour and Anna Treiber at Joe’slongtime friend, the glam, uber-talented actress Jane Seymour (along with dynamic friends NBC’s Daniella Guzman, Jennifer Baum Boroff, Anna Treiber, Jane’s darling sister Annie and her longtime art representative, Susan Nagy Luks). Jane’s life is full to bursting with art projects/installations, an “Open Heart” jewelry line, a bed linen line, a clothing line and many upcoming film and television roles. Kathleen and Jane have been friends since the mid-90’s when she, Kathleen, helped her host her very first art exhibit in Malibu. Henson Consulting still works closely with Jane and her husband James Keach for their Open Hearts Foundation that recognizes individuals who have overcome adversity to do good and help others. 🙂

Blog 1 - Giuseppe Pochintesta and Tom Strehle at the Byblos, St. TropezTom Strehle, VP of Human Resources at Beam Global Spirits & Wine, is enjoying the wonders of the French Riviera and making me so envious! This is one of my favorite spots in the world and Tom is having a great time staying at boutique hotel Le Mouillage in St. Tropez, taking a helicopter to Nice and Monaco, drinking lots of Domaine Ott, visiting the hot new Coco Beach Club Blog 2 - Local specialty, the tarte Tropezienne, at the Byblos Hoteland enjoying the local specialty, Tropezienne tarts at the Byblos Hotel (one of the best in the world). He is a hard working guy who also gives (a lot) back to local charities…thanks for all you do, Tom, and congrats on your much deserved, jet-setting vaca! (Tom is shown in pic with Byblos Head Concierge Giuseppe Pochintesta…to see more of the St. Tropez experience, click here!)
 
Elana Schulman pitching Eli’s on QVC!Congrats are in order for Elana Schulman who is making waves (and cheesecakes!) for HSN! The famous Eli’s Cheesecake is now available on this popular network! Congrats Schulmans – you’re all so "sweet"!
 
Thanks for checking in this week and I hope your Labor Day weekend was filled with BBQ, friends, love and laughter!
 
Trib eventLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Don’t miss the Chicago Tribune’s “Chicago Forward: Conversations About the Future” discussion about the presidential election with heavy hitters who include Bill Daley (former White House Chief of Staff), U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock (from Peoria), Jim Edgar (former Illinois governor), Christie Hefner (director of the Center for American Progress), Leonard Pitts, Jr. (nationally syndicated columnist) and Jonah Goldberg (nationally syndicated columnist). Bruce Dold will conduct this panel discussion about the Windy City White House 2012! Don’t miss it on September 10th at 6 p.m. at the Field Museum. Tickets are only $15…click here for more info!

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