Tag Archives: Michael Caputo

November 13, 2019 · 9:47 am

EVERSIGHT’S MYSTERY MASQUERADE FUNDS THE GIFT OF SIGHT

Plus: Service Club's Flight of Fantasy; Field Museum celebrates 125; Chicago Public Library Foundation dinner honors literary greats; Gateway for Cancer Research party with Ceelo; An international gathering for Chicago Consular Corps Gala; Hebru's magical Nevermore Park;"Gabby Road with Hannah, Fred and Justin"; Cooper and Scarley wed; Kip and Trey's new venture; Gold Coast Fashion Show; Gift of Life Gala; Oak Street's new Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant; SC Holiday Luncheon; Monday Night Live at Petterino's; Chicago Toy & Game Fair; Bruno's TOCCO North; Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish: A magical, family-friendly holiday musical; Brushes with Cancer Gala; The (fabulous!) World of Chocolate; TWO holiday markets for Randolph Street Market rounds out 2019; This & That; Darling videos and SOOO much more!

_______________________________________________________________________

2019 Eversight honorees Sherry Lea Holson and Dr. David Lubeck.

Making Vision a Reality! The 4th annual Gift of Sight fundraiser for Eversight, this year themed "Mystery Masquerade," was

Co-chair Michael Caputo beside his elegant MyEyeDr Cosmo Bar (Kehoe Designs)

held at the Peninsula Chicago on October 24. In year's past, the event was held in June but the over 250 guests who attended this year seemed to really enjoy the move to October and especially the masquerade concept since nearly everyone came wearing elaborate and creative masks! As guests descended the staircase to the grand ballroom, passing through golden curtains, they were greeted by incredible "human candelabra" (courtesy of ZZAZZ Productions). Two performers

Human candelabra courtesy of ZZAZZ Productions.

were outfitted in golden catsuits with fully LIT candelabra on their heads–think Lumiere on

Diane Hollingsoworth, Eversight VP Partner Relations, with honoree Dr. David Lubeck.

steroids! Tamar Productions upped the decor ante with an exquisitely tented ballroom in ribbons of black and gold. A MyEyeDr "gold cosmo" bar, an event sponsor, was placed at the end of the hallway and was created by Kehoe Designs in collaboration with co-chair Michael Caputo. A giant, golden "Winged Victory" stood watch behind the bar that was flanked by soaring golden, sculptural candle holders. As guests perused the extensive silent auction, white ostrich feathers in golden urns lined the hallway. It was truly a gorgeous event! Even the place settings were decorated with the addition of stunning crystal masks courtesy of Mary Ann Rose (Tamar Productions/committee

Nina Mariano and Dr. Stacie McClane with honoree Sherry Lea Holson.

Mary Ann Rose (Tamar Productions) and Heinz Kern.

member). I was honored to return as a co-chair with Michael to honor the evening's honorees Sherry Lea Holson (2019 Woman of Vision) and Dr. David Lubeck (Gift of Sight Award recipient). Diane Hollingsworth, Eversight's VP Partner Relations, opened the program thanking guests in attendance that included past honorees Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Greg Hyder, Susanna Homan, Jean Antoniou, Sherrill Bodine, Susan Gohl, Mamie Walton, Drs. Charles Bouchard, Randy Epstein, Robert Feder, Marian Macsai,

Stanley Paul, Denise Tomasello, past honoree Mamie Walton and Peter Martino.

Jonathan Rubenstein and Joel Sugar, and yours truly. Sherry spoke eloquently about the nonprofit and

Sherrill Bodine, Bobbi Panter and Sheree Valukas.

encouraged everyone to sign up to be a donor if they hadn't already. She thanked her friends and Tom Kehoe in particular for his glam decor that included beautiful purple floral arrangements (fit for a queen!). Dr. Lubeck explained the corneal transplant process to the crowd, which is a key component of the services that the organization provides to doctors as well as research involving

Frances Renk and Sylvia Perez.

all aspects of restoring sight and preventing blindness. A live

Masquerade fun with my Chuck Jordan. (Mask courtesy of Mark Olley).

auction conducted by Greg Dellinger (G-Man) offered amazing trips, courtesy of the Peninsula (GM Maria Zec), to Paris, China, NY, Chicago, Beverly Hills, Quail Lodge in California and The Breakers. A trip to NYFW, courtesy of my favorite designer Pamella Roland, included two tickets to her by-invite-only fashion show! Dinner followed with dancing to the sounds of DJ Andreas. The evening concluded with guests enjoying the stocked-to-the-brim MyEyeDr Candy Bar. Sponsors included Sherry Lea and Richard S. Holson III, Ocean Prime, Guarantee Trust Life (GTL), MyEyeDr, The Peninsula Chicago with media sponsor Chicago Magazine. The funds raised will help ensure that anyone in need of a sight restoring transplant will be not be left in the dark! (For more info about Eversight, please click here!)

_______________________________________________________________________

SC pres Tracey DiBuono, co-chair Dr. Sapna Rathi, emcee Rob Johnson, co-chair Sylvia Muller and honoree Vonita Reescer.

The Service Club of Chicago hosted its annual gala on Friday, November 1 at the Four Seasons. Flight of

Myra Reilly with Sustaining Sponsor Marguerite Hark.

Fantasy celebrated 129 years of giving for the SC with co-chairs/members Sylvia Muller and Dr. Sapna Rathi and honoree Vonita Reescer. This was the final gala for outgoing president Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, who has done an amazing job in this prestigious position. She said, "Not only do we

The SC Auxiliary Board had a strong presence at the gala!

celebrate our achievements of 129 years, but we spread our wings and travel towards our future. At the end of our days, we will be judged by the good we have done with our time

Alpana Singh with auctioneer John Walcher.

and with our blessings." She added, "Our founders in 1890 had a fantasy that they could help our city's burgeoning immigrant communities who were in need. Tonight, look at what our dreams have become. Our founders' fantasy is alive and well," she said. In 2019, the "good" the SC has done can be translated into the over $400,000 it has

Shaun Rajah and Rochelle Trotter.

distributed to 43 worthy nonprofits across Chicagoland through its renowned Philanthropic Grant Fund. Costumed performers from ZZAZZ Productions

The beautiful DiBuono Family.

performed a firefly dance to celebrate the theme and the Becca Kaufman Orchestra kept the crowd, that included many Auxiliary Board members, on the dance floor. Kehoe Designs' exquisite decor bathed the room in a purple glow with ginormous, sparkly butterfly centerpieces on the tables, representing the transformation

Honoree Vonita Reescer surrounded by friends.

the SC does for the nonprofits it supports. In between courses, a live auction featured items that included Super Bowl 2020 tickets, a week-long stay in Vail and a casting opportunity on the

Scott Seaman reads the proclamation from the Mayor for Vonita.

show "Check, Please!" Tracey introduced honoree Vonita Reescer citing her many philanthropic efforts within the community and for the SC. Vonita is a long time member of the organization and a past president. Her friend Scott Seaman read a proclamation from Mayor Lightfoot proclaiming November 1 "Vonita Reescer Day" in Chicago. All proceeds raised from the event will go toward the organization's grant program. (For more info on SC, click here!) (Photos by John Reilly Photography)

________________________________________________________________________

Judy Block accepts the Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership.

The Field Museum hosted its annual fundraising gala, marking the culmination of the Museum’s

Gala Chair Megan Hoffmann

125^th Anniversary celebration, on October 19. The gala, hosted by the Women’s Board, is the Field’s largest fundraising event of the year. This year, it raised $2.3 million for groundbreaking science research, conservation programs, visitor experiences and education

Bobby Mehta (Trustee) Field Museum Presdient and CEO Richard Lariviere Board Chair Bill Gantz Northern Trust Chairman and CEO Mike O'Grady (Trustee) by Bob Carl

Bobby Mehta (Trustee), Field Museum Pres/CEO Richard Lariviere, Board Chair Bill Gantz and Northern Trust Chairman/CEO Mike O'Grady (Trustee)

outreach in Chicago and around the world. The gala was chaired by Women’s Board member Megan Hoffmann. Highlights of the event included the presentation of two service awards: the 2019 Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership that was presented to Judy

Robert and Leslie Zentner (Women's Board) by Bob Carl

Bob and Leslie Zentner (WB member)

Block, past president of the Women’s Board and the first woman to chair the board of trustees. Michael O’Grady, CEO of Northern Trust, accepted the inaugural Corporate Philanthropy Award in honor of the Bank’s 125 years of partnership with the Field. “It’s difficult to fully express the impact Judy Block

Women's Board President Donna Greenberg and Jack Greenberg (Trustee) by Bob Carl

WB president Donna Greenberg and Jack Greenberg (Trustee)

has had at the museum over four decades. She has displayed outstanding leadership and support. She became the first woman to chair the board of a major cultural institution in Chicago when she took on her role

Kathleen (Women's Board) and Dennis Klaeser by Bob Carl

Kathleen Klaeser (past WB president/member) and Dennis Klaeser.

as our board chair in 1997, and she was the driving force behind our acquisition of SUE,” said Marshall Field V, for whom the Marshall Field Award is named. (Under Block’s leadership, the museum acquired SUE, the world’s largest and most complete T. rex fossil.) “Northern Trust has been stalwart in its philanthropic commitment to the museum since the founding of our institution in

Karen Grey-Krehbiel (Trustee) and John Krehbiel.

1893. They have helped bring world-class exhibitions to the Field – and Chicago – and they have been profoundly important to our work with Chicago students and teachers.”^”said Museum President and CEO, Richard W. Lariviere, PhD. The memorable evening

Flip Block Susu Block Judy Block Margie Stineman Kevin Stineman by Bob Carl

Flip Block, Susu Block, Judy Block, Margie Stineman and Kevin Stineman.

included a reception, seated dinner and dancing for 600 guests. Partygoers enjoyed decor by HMR Designs, dinner and dessert from Calihan Catering and music by Talk of the Town Big Band. The museum’s young professionals

2019 Womens Board Gala - mark campbell productions-2

Gorgeous decor by HMR Designs.

group, the Field Associates, co-hosted the gala after-party. In September 2018, The Field Museum launched its $250M fundraising campaign, Because Earth. The Campaign for the Field Museum. The funds secured through this campaign will fuel the institution’s work to document environmental change, make the museum accessible to all audiences and maintain its historic building on the lakefront. (Photos by Bob Carl)

_______________________________________________________________________

Image05_Brenda Langstraat Mayor Lori Lightfoot Author George R.R. Martin and Bob Wislow at CSLA -- Photo Credit Kyle Flubacker

Brenda Langstraat, CPLF pres, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner George R. R. Martin and Bob Wislow, CPLF board chair.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation and Chicago Public Library’s 2019 Carl Sandburg Literary Awards

Image08_Dr. Eve L. Ewing and Host Bill Kurtis at CSLA -- Photo Credit Kyle Flubacker

21st Century Award winner Dr. Eve L. Ewing and host Bill Kurtis.

dinner was a tremendous success that brought together more than 900 corporate and community leaders on October 10 at The Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum on the campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago. The Sandburg Literary Award was presented to best-selling author,

Leslie Hindman and CPL chair Linda Johnson Rice.

screenwriter and television producer George R.R. Martin. His body of work includes award winning works of science fiction, horror, and fantasy fiction such as A Song for Lya (1974), Fevre Dream (1982) and the world-wide best-selling epic fantasy series A Song of

Image13_Donna La Pietra Author George R. R. Martin and Bill Kurtis at CSLA 2019 - Photo Credit Lynn Renee Photography

CPLF director Donna La Pietra, honoree George R. R. Martin, author Scott Turow (top L) and host Bill Kurtis.

Ice and Fire (1996) that inspired the HBO series “Game of Thrones” which Martin also helped co-write. The 21st Century Award, presented to a Chicago-based author with recent writing achievements, was presented to sociologist, author, poet, visual artist and

Image12_Commissioner Telli Brenda Langstraat and Jennifer Friedes at CSLA 2019 - Photo Credit Lynn Renee Photography

Commissioner Andrea Telli, Brenda Langstraat and event chair Jennifer Friedes.

assistant professor at the University of Chicago Dr. Eve L. Ewing. Her numerous diverse works include writing for Marvel’s Ironheart series, Electric Arches (2017) Ghosts in the School Yard (2018) and 1919 (2019). Bill Kurtis served as emcee with Scott Simon leading an onstage

Francee Harrington, Bob Wislow and Mary Houpt.

conversation with George R.R. Martin. One of the highlights of the annual benefit is that each guest has the opportunity to engage in dinner table conversation with an esteemed author with ties to

Brian Riddick and Constance Jones.

Chicago. This year, guests were seated amidst notable authors including six past recipients of the 21st Century Award and one past recipient of the Carl Sandburg Literary Award: Rich Cohen, Elizabeth Crane, Eric Charles May, Natalie Moore, Nami Mun, Erika L. Sánchez, and Sandburg Literary Award Recipient Scott Turow. Other notable

Image07_Table Settings at CSLA - Photo credit Kyle Flubacker

Lucky guests were treated to complimentary books at each table as well as a seated author.

participating authors in attendance were Pulitzer finalist and author of The House of Broken Angels Luis Albert Urrea; contributing editor at Vanity Fair and Rolling

Constance O'Neal and Kaelee Arrieta.

Stone and author of The New York Times bestseller The Last Pirate of New York, Rich Cohen; and Chief White House official photographer and author of The New York Times best seller Obama: An Intimate Portrait, Pete Souza. “The annual dinner has been tremendously successful and grows more and more prominent each year. The event demonstrates the power of investing in our city’s Library as we celebrate the Chicago literary

Image09_ Event Chair Jenny Friedes and Author George R.R. Martin at CSLA -- Photo Credit Kyle Flubacker

Event chair Jenny Friedes and George R. R. Martin holding his award.

community,” said Library Foundation President Brenda Langstraat. “It is such a privilege to honor some of the greatest literary figures of our time, and we are so grateful to everyone who participated in the event. We will activate the funds raised to directly impact the lives of

Image17_Dr. Eve L. Ewing speaks at CSLA -- Photo Credit Kyle Flubacker

21st Century Award winner Dr. Eve L. Ewing.

thousands of library patrons in every neighborhood.” The evening raised more than $2.2 million for the Foundation and initiatives of the Library. The event was chaired by civic leader Jennifer Friedes. BMO Harris Bank was the presenting sponsor of the event that was produced by Library Foundation Director Donna LaPietra. The Carl

Image09_Room Setup at CSLA - Photo credit Lynn Renee Photography

Exquisite room decor for annual CPLF dinner.

Sandburg Literary Award celebrates a writer’s collective body of work. Many of the world’s most important authors have been recognized with the prize, which is regarded as one of the nation’s most prestigious literary prizes. The annual

First Lady Amy Eshleman.

celebration is one of the highlights of Chicago’s social calendar, hailed as “the smartest event in Chicago” by Crain’s Chicago Business. The Carl Sandburg Literary

Jenny Friedes, Riley Florsheim and Laura Piel.

Award recognizes the work of the world’s most heralded authors and have included past winners Isabel Allende, Margaret Atwood, Judy Blume, Robert Caro, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Don DeLillo, Roger Ebert, Dave Eggers, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Nikki Giovanni, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Walter Isaacson, Erik Larson, Michael Lewis, David Mamet, David McCullough, Larry McMurtry, Toni Morrison, Joyce Carol Oates, Salman Rushdie, Stephen Sondheim, Mavis Staples, Scott Turow, John Updike, Kurt Vonnegut, Alice Walker, and Tom Wolfe. (Photos by Kyle Flubacker and Lynn Renee)

_______________________________________________________________________

Samantha Harris Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson

Samantha Harris with event hosts Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J Stephenson.

Gateway for Cancer Research, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding transformational cancer research, raised a whopping $4.2 million at its recent Cures Gala, which featured a “Gateway Studio 54” theme this year. The annual gala was held on November 2 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel and was hosted by global philanthropists Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson (Vice Chairperson, Gateway) and Mr. Richard J Stephenson (Gateway’s Founder and Chairman). Esteemed philanthropist Muneer Satter served as honorary co-chair. “Cancer affects all of us and the generosity and dedication of those passionate about our urgent cause makes the vital research funded by Gateway possible, giving patients more comfort, more hope, and one of life’s most precious gifts – time,” said Dr. Stephenson. “This

Ceelo Green helps announce the great fundraising news.

inspirational evening reflected the impact and continued promise of lifesaving research, and our tireless commitment to changing the face of cancer care.” Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter/producer CeeLo Green treated the crowd to his music along with Grammy Hall of Fame recipients the SugarHill Gang that delighted the crowd with their hit, “Rappers Delight.” Tony Vincent, ABBA Revisited and the Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra also performed live for guests. Actress Melissa Peterman served as emcee for the evening, which was attended by special guests including Samantha Harris (EMMY Award winning TV host and model), Torrey DeVitto (NBC’s Chicago Med), Joe Minoso (NBC’s Chicago Fire), Marina Squerciati (NBC’s

Dr. Stacie Stephenson, gala vice chair.

Chicago P.D.), Molly Bernard (NBC’s Chicago Med), Willa Fitzgerald (MTV’s Scream) and Alycia Mondavi (CEO and co-owner of Aloft and Dark Matter Wines). “Gateway for Cancer Research is dedicated to funding transformational clinical trials for the patients we serve – courageous men, women and children facing cancer. We advance our mission in partnership with those who share our goal to end cancer as we know it,” said Michael Burton, CEO, Gateway for Cancer Research. Proceeds from the event will support transformational Phase I and Phase II clinical trials for cancers of all types. Since 1991, Gateway has raised more than $85 million for cancer research and funded 170+ studies benefitting over 5,500 patients worldwide. 99 cents of every dollar Gateway receives directly funds early phase clinical trials at renowned research institutions around the world.

_______________________________________________________________________

Andrea Zopp, First Lady Amy Eshleman, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and John Robak (president/COO Greeley & Hansen)

The Chicago Consular Corps Gala was held on November 1 at the Hilton Chicago with over 600 guests in attendance. The event was hosted by World

Bethany Florek and John Robak.

Business Chicago and Chicago Sister Cities (CEO Andrea Zopp) and presented by Greeley and Hansen. The gala is Chicago's premier international event honoring the Chicago Consular Corps (CCC), an international group of Consulates, Consulates General and Honorary Consulates representing 86 countries around the world and celebrating the long-

John Robak welcomes the crowd.

standing relationship between the city and the Consular Corps. Honorary chairs were Mayor Lori Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman and The Honorable Patricia Maza-Pittsford and Phillip Pittsford. John C. Robak, president Greeley and Hansen, served as the gala chair. The honorees for this year's gala were: Samuel C. Scott III (Global Citizen Award); Ruben D. Ocampo (Chicago Sister Cities Volunteer of the Year); Future Founders (Chicago Next Award) and PWC (Corporate Ambassador Award). The gala raised nearly $1 million to support the work of World Business Chicago, Chicago Sister Cities International and the Chicago Consular Corps scholarships to the University of Illinois at Chicago. Congrats to all! To learn more about the Chicago Consular Corps, click here.

________________________________________________________________________

Artist Hebru Brantley enjoying his Nevermore Park experiences.

Artist and Chicago native Hebru Brantley wants to invite you inside his world. Nevermore Park, at 949 W. 16th St., is a visually stimulating, immersive, pop-up universe that spans nearly

Chuck Jordan enjoying an "El ride" at Nevermore Park.

6,000-sq-ft offering 19 different (cool) experiences. Guests enter through a traditional art gallery and then "fall through a canvas" into the world of Nevermore Park. A newspaper tunnel takes visitors through the stories of black history from the 1950's to today. A newstand displays past issues of Ebony and Jet magazines, many collected by Hebru's grandmother. Every inch of the space is interactive including a cave where you regulate your own vibration frequencies. If you don't pay close attention, you can miss something magical. A crashed

Nevermore Park, see it now through December 1!

rocket plays JFK's moon speech inside with take-off and landing sounds. A Pullman train care with leather Chesterfield chairs and a vintage Victrola takes you back in time. One of my favorite experiences was the recreation of a vacant lot transformed into a community garden. Many of the elements reminded me of some of the garden plots back home as did a backyard BBQ set-up. I won't give anymore away but suffice it to say, it's an experience you shouldn't miss, now through December 29. If we're lucky, it might become a permanent exhibit changing with the times, as Hebru does so well. For more info/tickets, click here!

_______________________________________________________________________

Entertainment dynamos Becky Menzie and Denise McGowan Tracy at Petterino's.

Chuck and I were definitely late to THIS party! Who knew!? Thanks to Beth Silverman for turning us onto the best Monday night spot in town, Petterino's Monday Night Live, a weekly, impromptu musical showcase that is now on its 500th show! This Monday night cabaret series, which is akin to Sardi's in NYC, is co-hosted (and created) by dynamos Denise McGowan Tracy and Beckie Menzie and features performers from various Chicago shows who share their singing talents with the crowd while they enjoy a delicious dinner. On this night, the stage was ruled by performers from Denise's new musical production "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish-The

Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish-The Musical opens November 19!

Musical", which is based on the book of the same name penned by Denise! The world premiere production opens at the Greenhouse Theater in Lincoln Park on Tuesday, November 19. It's a 65-minute heartwarming musical that is an "engaging tale of love, friendship and the magic of

Cast of Eleanor's performing at Petterino's in advance of production debut.

the holiday season." (For all "dreamers", ages 3 and up). Single tickets are $29.50 and family packs of four are available at $100. Each ticket includes the opportunity for every girl and boy to take a photo with Santa immediately following the performance and, on opening night, all are invited to a cast party after. I just can't wait! Congrats, with love, Denise! (For info on Petterino's Monday Night Live showcase, click here , and for info on this delightful, new holiday musical, click here!) Santa approves! (To see cast singing finale song, click here!)

________________________________________________________________________

With the Gabby Road team Fred Weintraub, Hannah Stanley and Justin Kulovsek.

A special thanks to WGCO Radio's "Gabby Road with Hannah, Fred & Justin" for the fun-loving and free wheeling interview recently! I was lucky to follow "Price is

With "Price is Right" star Paul Iacono.

Right" contestant (for its 9,000th episode!) Paul Iacono on this popular talk radio show. Paul discussed his near miss on the "big wheel" and the inner workings of this beloved CBS game show. I spoke about my long history with Playboy, an exciting recent photo shoot and my work as a columnist. To listen, click here!

________________________________________________________________________

Cooper Hefner weds his longtime love Scarlett Byrne.

Speaking of Playboy, happy news for Hef's son Cooper who recently married his longtime sweetheart, and

Mr. and Mrs. Cooper Hefner.

Harry Potter actress, Scarlett Byrne! They were officially married and will be planning a wedding soon with family and friends. On Insta, Cooper posted, "Cheers to a life full of love, happiness, adventure, and great purpose. Mrs. Hefner, I love you dearly and very much look forward to planning our wedding celebrations in the months ahead. I love you, Scarlett." Awwwww, here's to a lifetime of love and happiness for this darling pair!

_______________________________________________________________________

Open to the public! The 17th annual Chicago Toy & Game Fair is coming to Navy Pier November 23/24, Saturday/Sunday, showcasing the best toys and games from around the globe! This family play experience will offer over 125 interactive exhibits, immersive events and activities for all ages, created by leading toy and game brands! Blast off in the world's largest kid-powered rockets, enjoy a Frozen II Scavenger Hunt, a beer garden with popular adult and party games, test out products before they hit retail shelves and find out what's hot for the holidays, enjoy photo opps with Star Wars characters, a Yo-Yo championship, Ben's Giant Bubble Show, Stage Events, Magic Shows and so much more! (Tickets/more info here)

_______________________________________________________________________

More congrats are in order for Kip Gonzalez and his partner Trey Gonzalez, who are the new owners of Smith's, the iconic menswear store in Lake Forest that's been in operation since 1937. Mark your calendars for their Grand Opening on Saturday, November 23, 10 am–6 pm, 770 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest (847.234.5866). Visit Smith's website here!

________________________________________________________________________

Ilana Lerman (of Lurie Children’s), Megan Hodes (Children’s Service Board President).

The Children’s Service Board (CSB), an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, hosted its signature fundraising

Tina Koegel and Wendy Krimins (of Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue).

event, the Gold Coast Fashion Show, at Revel Fulton Market on September 26. Over 700 fashion loving supporters helped raise more than $1 million for Lurie Children’s and its commitment to the Department of Family Services. “This year, the CSB was thrilled to continue their dedication to supporting Lurie Children’s Department of Family Services,” said Megan Hodes, CSB president. “The CSB understands the importance of providing the highest quality medical care for patients at the hospital, while offering families the ability

Sara Spicklemire, Sr. VP CRBE, Marit Bohbot and friend.

to feel at home in a hospital environment. The devoted staff of the Department of Family Services is instrumental in the healing process for not only

Lukas, Patient Champion and Family.

patients, but the whole family.” The Department of Family Services is funded entirely through philanthropy and addresses the emotional, social and spiritual needs of the children and families treated at the Hospital. The Department encompasses a wide range of essential personnel at Lurie Children’s including child life specialists, social

Megan Hodes and Ryan Bennett.

workers, art and music therapists, teachers, activity coordinators and more. The fashion show celebration kicked off with a cocktail reception followed by the fashion presentation from the show’s long-time partner

Hope Katz (center), Nooshin Felsenthal (R) and friend.

and sole retail sponsor, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. The evening’s festivities concluded with a paddle raise and live auction. The event was hosted by the Children’s Service Board executive committee led by president Megan Hodes with Emily Flaherty, Melissa Kearney, Danielle Hoeg, Susan Flosi, Casey Ray, Julie Simon, Melissa Wolf and Alison Heyman. This year’s lead sponsors included, presenting sponsor, Clune Construction Company, as well as CIBC, Kirkland & Ellis, Park Chicago and Reed Smith.

_______________________________________________________________________

Gift of Life Gala Honorees Joan and Paul Rubschlager.

The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) hosted its 34^th Annual “Gift of Life Gala” at The Drake Hotel on October 24. With over 200 guests in attendance, the evening raised $255,000 to benefit the health and well-being of those at risk or affected by kidney disease. Regina Waldroup (of NBC-5) hosted the event that presented Joan and Paul Rubschlager, renowned Chicago philanthropists, with the “Harold & Molly

CPD Officer Daniel Johnson , NKFI CEO Jackie Burgess-Bishop, retiring CPD Chief Superintendent Eddie Johnson.

Schwartz Founders Award” for their outstanding commitment and achievement on behalf of the organization. Retiring CPD Chief

Dr. Madhavi Ryali and Dr. Sejal Kalawadia.

Superintendent Eddie Johnson and his son CPD Officer Daniel Johnson were honored with the “Gift of Life Award” in recognition of their contributions to fight kidney disease. Nearly two years ago, 25-year-old Daniel donated a kidney to his father, Eddie, after he was diagnosed with glomerulonephritis, an acute inflammation of the kidney. Inspired by the spirit of “Old Chicago,” the event featured dinner stations

Emcee Regina Waldroup.

highlighting classic Chicago flavors with dishes from Greektown, Little Italy, Pilsen and ballpark favorites, themed activities and raffles. A cocktail reception included Windy City-inspired fundraising stations such as Crosstown Classic Trivia, where guests tested their knowledge of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox; Prohibition,

Dr. Ivo Tzvetanov and Polly Tzvetanov.

which allowed guests to test their luck at the roulette wheel; and World’s Fair Wine Toss, giving guests a chance to take home a bottle of wine. The evening ended on a sweet note with dessert stations, a doughnut "wall" and treats provided by Garrett Popcorn Shops. Guests danced to lively music and entertainment from FAMOS! DJ Entertainment. Platinum sponsors included Gift of Hope and Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois & Indiana. All proceeds from the evening directly supported the NKFI mission to improve the health of those at risk or affected by kidney disease through free screening programs and community health initiatives in Illinois.

_______________________________________________________________________

Bruno Abate.

Congrats to much loved restaurateur Bruno Abate on his new restaurant, TOCCO North, newly opened in Winnetka. This jewel of a spot opened on November 10 to rave reviews at 507 Chestnut (across from the post

TOCCO North in Winnetka, now open!

office). Bruno has always been a pioneer in the industry opening his first hotspot in the West Loop, Follia, where he served not only delicious food but also showcased local design talent. The Winnetka location will have 50-55 tables including a chef's table for 10. Abate cooks with his signature pure silver pans, which allow dishes to be cooked slowly over low heat. Out of a side window, baked goods such as panini, pizza and breads will be sold from 11am until the restaurant closes. I'm so happy for Bruno, not only is he a genius when it comes to food but he's also a champion in the world of philanthropy with his much needed work in the prisons teaching inmates to cook (thus preparing them for a new life on the street) through his nonprofit, Recipe for Change. All good Bruno! Keep up the great work with all of your endeavors!

________________________________________________________________________

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant's new flagship on Oak St.

Three months after Del Frisco's closed, the old Esquire Theater space has a new tenant. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant, the suburban chain founded in 2005 in Orland Park is now open! The space is still as elegant as ever and the centerpiece, the "wine tower" is still in tact albeit more appropriate now with Cooper's Hawk's wine history. The location at 58 E. Oak St. is the first Chicago restaurant in its 14 year history and will now serve as its

Tantalizing ribeye (photo courtesy of Anthony Martorina)

flagship. The menu has 5 signature dishes by Chef Matt McMillin (formerly a partner in the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group) including a 25 ounce prime bone-in ribeye. The menu is loaded with tantalizing dishes for every taste. This restaurant is also the only one in the franchise that will offer non-Cooper's Hawk wines. The chain has 35 locations in nine states, mostly in the Midwest. Welcome to the 'hood CH! Opened to the public, Monday, November 11.

_______________________________________________________________________

SC Holiday Luncheon at the elegant University Club.

The Service Club of Chicago will host its wildly popular Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 4 at the legendary University Club. Guests will enjoy a variety of local vendors, holiday entertainment and festive decor, all to fund the nonprofit's grant program. Congrats in advance to co-chairs Lezley Hodes, Karen Peters and Sherrill Bodine! For tickets/more info, click here!

_______________________________________________________________________

Artist Ashley D'Amico (L) and Inspiration Hilary Rikower.

Twist Out Cancer hosted its seventh annual Brushes With Cancer Gala at Moonlight Studios on November 2. Over 500 people were treated to an evening centered on art, entertainment, storytelling, hope, inspiration, and survivorship. This unique celebration paired pre-

A performance by National Recording artist Jesse Palter.

vivors, survivors, fighters and caregivers, referred to as Inspirations, with accomplished artists working in a variety of mediums. Those touched by cancer shared their ‘twist on cancer’ – stories, feelings and experiences – with the artist, which served as the inspiration for the art. All the money that was raised will go back into the program to help bring Brushes With Cancer to more people in Chicago and around the world that have been touched by cancer. At the Brushes With Cancer Gala in Chicago, 35 unique works of art were on display – with each one representing an Inspiration’s personal journey

Artist Dana Phipps (L) and Inspiration Lil Rel Howery.

with cancer. (You can still view all of the artwork and read the stories behind them here) Throughout the evening, guests were also treated to presentations and speeches centered on personal stories from those who have been touched by the disease. This included a presentation from Jenna Benn Shersher, who founded Twist Out Cancer after surviving Grey Zone Lymphoma; a speech from Chicago native, actor, and comedian Lil Rel Howery, who lost his mom and brother to cancer; as well as an original song from Jenny Conlee-Drizos,

Inspiration Rachel Reichblum (L) and Artist Jeffrey Guerrero (R)

Inspiration Rachel Reichblum and artist Jeffrey Guerrero.

who is a breast cancer survivor and is the organist and pianist for The Decemberists. Jenny wrote the song for a cancer survivor in Chicago. The Brushes With Cancer Gala in Chicago was the culmination of a year in which inaugural programs were held in Detroit, Mich., Philadelphia, Pa. and Austin, Texas. Since its inception, the organization has touched over 22,000 people around the world through its programs and events.

_______________________________________________________________________

The World of Chocolate, benefiting the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, comes to Revel Fulton Market on Thursday, December 5. You won't wanna miss this sweet fundraiser filled with over 20 of the city's top chefs! (Tickets available now here!)

________________________________________________________________________

Randolph Street Market, my favorite, returns on November 23/24 and December 14/15 with TWO Holiday Markets! For its final two indoor markets of 2019, RSM is decking the halls at Plumbers Hall with 3 floors of one-of-a-kind shopping and fun for the whole family! Grab a specialty cocktail courtesy of Diageo and snack on free popcorn in the new Sports Bar while shopping the most stylishly crafted mix of vintage and modern decorative objects, housewares, fashion, art, hostess gifts and more from 125 vendors (including makers and shakers like Swoon Living, Luxe 1978, and Cocktail Courier). For tickets/more info, click here!

________________________________________________________________________

I hope you enjoyed the early snowfall! Oh, happy day! We've begun putting up our Christmas decor with the festive holiday musical backdrop of Melissa Forman and 93.9 The Lite. After dragging 5 trees (4 for the balcony, one for indoors) out of our storage locker and into our home, we discovered that not one damn light worked. Oh well, that's God's way of telling me I need a new tree. Soooo, I found a unique "Flip" tree from Balsam Hill and I'll let you know if it meets the hype. (See video here). Hope you're gearing up now for whatever holiday is your favorite too! Nothing wrong with turkey either! Gobble! Gobble!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace @CandidCandace.com

P.S. Something to leave you with a smile…..

THE BEST AND BIGGEST SUMMER PARTY FEATURES DIANA ROSS

Plus: Out of the BLU at the Shedd; Ocean Prime hosts kick-ass kick-off; Ji's next big step; Service Club's BIG Day on the Terrace; Crain's shining star executives; Chicago Tribune Food Bowl is BACK; Babs loves Azeeza; LIPS Chicago presents drag and dining; Giordano Dance Chicago's Nan is WINNING; Expo Chicago brings the art; Second City Divas in Concert; Haute Dog Chicago's yap happy party; The Happiness Club benefit with Miguel; The BEST event listings; This and That; Videos and so much MORE!

_______________________________________________________________________

There are parties and then there are DRIEHAUS parties of which there is a world of difference. As a matter of fact, Richard Driehaus just may well be the Hugh Hefner of our age sans Bunnies! One of the most coveted invitations around is Richard's Summer Party, which also celebrates his birthday each year. This year's "O77" theme

The coveted invite!

was a nod to both James Bond and Richard's 77th birthday. It was the largest in the event's long history with over 1,100 of his closest friends in attendance. We love any excuse to travel to Lake Geneva in the summer and this is a really good one. Our long weekend started off at a friend's beautiful

One happy man with the James Bond Golden Girls.

lake house where we met up with several friends including Linda Yu (host with her Stuart), Sylvia Perez, Frances Renk, Andrea and Dr. Steve Stryker, Peach Carr, Nora Dunn, Alison Ruble, among others. The "mother" of all parties began with a unique invitation that included details printed on silvered metal with an image of Richard posing as James Bond between Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan and others, enclosed with a black leather kit (marked "Top Secret-For Your Eyes

Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan with Lee Glenna.

THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS! Omg….

Only") containing a complete portable martini set for two! The invitation box also included a very real-looking passport with Richard's photo and info as a "Special Agent."This sort of attention to detail is a hallmark of every Driehaus party and it's a thrill to behold. We drove up to the "estate on the lake" where valet parkers took guests'

And, of course, there were portable gaming tables for this fun James Bond theme.

cars before boarding trolleys and buses to the party site. Among the many lakes and ponds dotting the property, the one bordering the cocktail and dining areas were filled with ginormous "casino chips" floating lazily atop the water. Aerialists and models dressed as "golden girls" greeted guests as they meandered through the orchard and "Children's

Floating "casino chips" in a pond.

Village" (where Richard had constructed mini-playhouses for his kids when they were younger). The invite requested men wear white dinner jackets and almost everyone complied making the scene look a bit surreal in the heat of the summer, albeit uber-

Stunning decor like this was everywhere you looked.

elegant. Food stations were scattered throughout the space and featured "Skyfall" (Mediterranean fare), "License to Kill" (carving station with baby lamb chops, salmon, pasta), "The Spy Who Loved Me" (veggies), "Casino Royale" (paella and salads), "Goldfinger" (desserts including caramelized bananas and mini apple pie skillets) and a "Pretty Cool" ice cream bar. Every year, Richard thrills guests with

Pre-party with friends Nora Dunn, Andrea Schwartz, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Peach Carr and Frances Renk.

his entertainment choices and, this year, it was Miss Diana Ross! (This might account for the record attendance!) White chairs with mini cocktail sidetables covered the lawn in front of the Pavilion stage where "077" was lit up across the

Zach Lazar and Lee Flaherty.

top. Richard made his entrance in his usual dramatic fashion via a video that showed clips from past James Bond films with his image superimposed in several key scenes (see video here). During his opening remarks, he sat in an oversized red leather chair and began in story-telling fashion of how his father influenced his life. "One of the greatest gifts of time and aging is the perspective it gives on life. Danish philosopher Kierkegaard said this, 'Life can only be understood backwards but it must be

Marilyn Miglin and Jim Karas.

lived forwards.' With that in mind, tonight I want to acknowledge my father Herman and his influence on my life…Dad wanted the best for us and he gave me a priceless gift, the power of aspiration, " he said.

Jim Karas and Nicki and Bob Fioretti.

Richard's father was a successful mechanical engineer with 24 patents but he only received $1 per patent and wasn't able to afford a house that he desired. This inspired Richard to make sure he was in a better position to provide for his own family when the time came. With his voice breaking, he concluded, "I thank you dad, you inspired me with your aspiration. It was a life-changing gift. Thank you dad

The one and only Miss Diana Ross!

for what you did." Diana Ross entered in grand fashion too (see video here) and opened her hour long set with "My World is Empty Without You Babe" and sang many

Expo Chicago's Tony Karman and Sondra Karman.

of her hits including "Stop! In the Name of Love", "Baby Love", "Why Do Fools Fall in Love" and many more. During "Reach Out and Touch", she asked the crowd to hold up their cell phones in flashlight mode. She made three gorgeous costume changes, one more exquisite than the next, wished Richard a happy birthday and then, poof, she was gone leaving everyone in a dreamlike state. Afterwards, Richard's family presented him with a huge birthday cake and then it was time for fireworks! On the lawn, more cocktails and desserts were served…..It was a party for the record books, as they all are. I'm sure Hefner was watching with envy.

________________________________________________________________________

Shedd BLU 2019

Over 900 of Chicago’s wildlife enthusiasts and socialites came together at the John G. Shedd Aquarium on July 27 for the sold-out signature fundraising fête, BLU, to make a difference for the aquatic animals everywhere. Hosted by

Auxiliary Board member Ashley Poulter and Nate Boychuck.

Shedd Aquarium’s auxiliary board and co-chairs, Caroline Conese, Ronak Danak and Dana Waud Floberg, the event raised more than $330,000 to support Shedd’s ongoing sustainability, conservation and rescue efforts for aquatic wildlife around the globe and

Shedd Aquarium Auxiliary Board members.

for the animals that call Shedd home. This year’s theme, “Out of the BLU” focused heavily on helping guests keep litter out of our waterways and away from landfills and instead reallocate as much waste as possible generated throughout the evening with the help of the aquarium’s robust composting and recycling programs. VIP guests kicked off the event an hour early and had the aquarium to themselves, though many chose to spend their time at the private lounge, presented by

Dan Derrig, Aux. Bd. member, Ronak Danak, co-chair and Aux. Bd. member and Dana Waud Floberg, co-chair and Aux Bd. member.

Citadel, on the North Terrace with an unbeatable view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. In

Cute servers from Nude Dude Food.

this one-of-a-kind setting, there were opportunities to come face-to-face with Shedd’s Magellanic penguins in Shedd’s North Lobby and enjoy a private acoustic performance from Daniel Wade outside while sipping on drinks provided by Heaven’s Door Whiskeys served in compostable cups. As the celebration got underway, guests walked

Co-chairs Dana Waud Floberg, Caroline Conese and Ronak Danak.

through the main entrance, adorned by 10-foot octopus tentacles for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity. In the main foyer, artists from Ink

Steve Boruta and Mina Boruta.

Factory worked feverishly to create a real-time art piece about how attendees can incorporate Zero Waste into their daily lives and their favorite memories at Shedd with visual notes and hand-drawn illustrations. Between sipping cocktails and experiencing special animal encounters to tastings from Chicago’s top restaurants like Nude Dude Food and Shaw’s Crab

Aquatic presentation "Tomorrow Starts Tonight" with dolphins, sea lions and penguins with music by Musicality.

House, guests also had the opportunity to marvel at a “trashion” show, hosted by Gordon Salon, with models wearing up-cycled couture outfits made from plastic bottles and bags. These activities and experiences helped inspire “Out of the BLU” attendees to think twice before reaching for single-use plastic materials. The stylish socialites then made their way to an exclusive aquatic presentation titled

Tom Scanlon, creator of "Clean the BLU" game.

Tomorrow Starts Tonight, in the Abbott Oceanarium that featured a dynamic musical performance by Musicality – a local west Chicago musical group featured on America's Got Talent. During the special

Aux. Bd. members Jeff Ollada and Catie Wloch with J.R. Davis.

program, there was a call to take action for animals by Shedd’s president/CEO, Dr. Bridget Coughlin, who highlighted the aquarium’s ongoing plastic pollution reduction efforts alongside recent heartwarming animal rescue stories. Following the stunning aquatic presentation with California sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins and Magellanic and rockhopper penguins, guests participated in a paddle raise, raising more than $47,000 in donations to

"Trashion" show hosted by Gordan Salon.

benefit the aquarium’s mission. From there, attendees went to the Sick Family Lakefront Terrace where the dance floor opened with

Aux. Bd. member Gregory Curtis Jr. and Nate Boychuck.

special performances by some of Chicago’s most popular drag performers, including Kat Sass and Lucy Stoole. Guests could enjoy food and drink in the downstairs foyer or dance the night away and gaze at the fireworks over Navy Pier. Concluding the evening, guests had the option to keep the party going at LiqrBox Chicago for the BLU After Party. While exiting, guests picked up a reusable bag, with SWZLE reusable straws, Ferrara candy,

Artists from Ink Factory create real time art to raise awareness for the Zero Waste theme.

reusable food wraps, and more, to encourage them to embrace the Zero Waste theme and

Aux. Bd. members Jeff Samotny and Ted Challenger.

choose alternatives to single-use plastics in their daily lives. The John G. Shedd Aquarium is home to 32,000 aquatic animals representing 1,500 species of fishes, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds and mammals from waters around the

A Chicago cultural treasure–The John G. Shedd Aquarium.

globe. Shedd is a recognized leader in animal care, conservation education and research. An accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the first U.S. aquarium awarded the Humane Certified™ mark for the care and welfare of its animals by American Humane Society, the organization is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute, and is supported by the people of Chicago, the State of Illinois and the Chicago Park District. (Photos by EVA HO and DANIELLE DOLAN)

_______________________________________________________________________

Co-chair Jean Antoniou, SC pres/show producer Tracey DiBuono, honoree Marguerite Hark, co-chairs Sharyl Mackey and Yvette Cusack.

Stay tuned for all the fun from this year's Service Club of Chicago fashion show! I think it was the best one yet! Themed "Fashionology #whatstrendingnow",

With Kristina McGrath, Mary Lasky, Sheree Valukas and Kathy Piccone. (Love my Elda de la Rosa dress!)

the event included a patriotic salute with U.S. Marines escorting models for the finale! I was proud to wear a beautiful gown by local designer Elda de la Rosa! Participating stores included Alice + Olivia, Anne Fontaine, Cram Fashion, Eileen Fisher, Escada, Ted Baker London, Tom James and Max Mara and Maximilian Furs (at Bloomingdale's). The glam finale segment featured eveningwear by Neiman Marcus Michigan Ave. All the deets coming soon in the Chicago Tribune! Don't miss it!

_______________________________________________________________________

The FAB Ocean Prime restaurant at 87 E. Wacker! GO!

The kick-off party for the October 24th Eversight Mystery Masquerade was a great success at Ocean Prime on July 25! Over 60 guests came out to celebrate the event and our 2019 honorees Sherry Lea Holson and Dr. David Lubeck. Louis Morgan, Ocean Prime GM, took care of us in VIP style as did the sales

With fellow co-chair Michael Caputo, honoree Sherry Lea Holson, Eversight's Diane Hollingsworth and honoree Dr. David Lubeck.

and event manager Crystal Lining. Guests oohed and ahhed their way to the Wrigley Room as they admired the stunning restaurant/bar decor along the way at 87 E. Wacker Dr. The room was decorated

Eversight's Diane Hollingsworth (R) with past honorees Mamie Walton (L) and Susan Gohl with Jonathan Grabill.

with tiny gold masks placed on the high tops as a nod to the event's fun masquerade theme. The corner event space offered dramatic views of Michigan Avenue as well as the river and skyline beyond. As partygoers mixed and mingled, photos from past events scrolled

Dave and Cheryl Lawlor.

on multiple video screens. Diane Hollingsworth, Eversight VP Partner Relations, welcomed guests and introduced Teresa Clark, Eversight VP of Philanthropy. As event co-chairs, Michael Caputo and I introduced the honorees, Sherry

Eversight's Teresa Clark (front L), Frances Renk, Paul Iacono and Todd Hatoff.

and David, and acknowledged past honorees in the crowd–Dr. Elmer Tu, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou, Susan Gohl, Sherrill Bodine, Susanna Homan (and lucky moi). Some of the guests asked

Peggy Martay, Toni Di Meola and honoree Sherry Lea Holson.

questions of the doctors and the two corneal transplant recipients who were in the crowd, Gerry Bouey and Alan Kravets. They enlightened all of us on the process and importance of the work that Eversight does. I hope you've marked your calendars for the main event, October 24 at the Peninsula! It's gonna be one wild, yet elegant, ride! For details, click here! (FAB photos by MILA SAMOKHINA)

_______________________________________________________________________

67467409_10217407297007810_687959310193393664_n

Haute Dog Chicago committee members Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas with host Elaine Duffens.

Another kick-ass kick-off was hosted by Elaine Duffens for Haute Dog Chicago, a fashion show fundraiser for Canine Companions for Independence set for

67448643_10217407297207815_3780051311924346880_n

Haute Dog Chicago supporters and committee members. We missed our chair Katie Cox!

Thursday, Sept. 19 at the Peninsula. Elaine's beautiful Gold Coast condo was filled to the brim with loving supporters like Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas, Wendy and Gregg Elstien, Donna Schultz, Natisha Dixon, Dee

Natisha Dixon and Donna Schultz and Mitchell Hatcher

Phillip Emigh, Natisha Dixon, Donna Schultz and Mitchell Hatcher.

Simmons, Leigh Primack, Angie DeMars, Katy Sandburg, Kyle DeSantis, Mitchell Hatcher, Sandy Golub, Maureen Guon, Margaret Harris, Amanda Black, Mary and Lionel Go, Jon Rodgers, Lori Smuckler and so many others. The Sept. 19 fashion show will feature local celebs and notables, many with Canine Companions, walking the runway with moving testimonials from some of the "teams" with their highly trained assistance dogs. I'm proud to return as emcee and hope you can join us! For tickets, more info, click here! This nonprofit provides highly trained service dogs for FREE to the disabled.

_______________________________________________________________________

Ji Suk Yi now on WGN-Radio's The Steve Cochran Show!

Congrats to Chicago's own Ji Suk Yi! She has become a regular contributor on the wildly popular Steve Cochran Show on WGN Radio! You can hear our beautiful friend Monday through Friday from 6 to 10 am! Yi most recently has written and hosted “The Grid: Neighborhood Eats,” a weekly restaurant column and video for the Chicago Sun-Times. She will continue the feature for the Sun-Times while adapting it as a weekly segment on Cochran’s show. Tune in!

_________________________________________________________________________

Tom Kehoe, a Crain's LGBTQ Notable Executive–no surprise here!

Crain's Chicago Business announced Chicago's Notable LGBTQ Executives, a first-ever list. The 88 LGBTQ leaders featured alphabetically here come from a wide range of sectors—finance, tech, nonprofits, media, the arts and more. All have demonstrated that they are advancing their

Robert Neubert, a Crain's LGBTQ Notable Executive, of course!

industries, workplace equality and civic engagement in Chicago. The article noted that "Chicago has been home to many LGBTQ leaders—philanthropist Jennifer Pritzker, media executive Fred Eychaner, Chicago Aldermen Deb Mell and Tom Tunney as well as Chicago Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts, to name a few—but today’s feature demonstrates the depth and breadth of LGBTQ involvement, service and leadership throughout Chicago." Congrats to ALL!

_______________________________________________________________________

Don't miss Opening Night of Chicago Tribune Food Bowl!

Chicago Tribune Food Bowl is BACCCKKK! This citywide festival features hundreds of events across Chicago with a mix of local favorites and world-renowned chefs. Spanning 18 days of food, Food Bowl encompasses a mix of dinners, parties, tours, pop-ups,

Trib food critic Phil Vettel celebrating at last year's event.

classes and a 3-day Night Market on the Chicago Riverwalk. Opening night is Tuesday, August 13 with Chicago born chef Rosio Sánchez (of Sanchez and Hija de Sanchez in Copenhagen, formerly of Noma). The evening’s event at City Hall will feature collaborative tastings from Birrieria Zaragoza, Brown Sugar Bakery, City Hall, The Duck Inn, Mi Tocaya Antojería, Sanchez (Copenhagen), The Swill Inn, and more, alongside the presentation of the Chicago

The Trotter Project will host the 1st annual Trotter Project Beer Fest Aug. 11-18.

Tribune Food & Dining team’s Game Changer Award. The Chicago Tribune Food & Dining team will award the Game Changer Award to a chef, restaurateur, charity or producer that is an individual in the food business or a food-based organization whose work has brought significant, positive change to the restaurant industry as a whole, or to the Chicago dining scene, in particular. For tickets, from $75-85 and all event info, click here! (All food and drink are included in the price of admission.)

_______________________________________________________________________

Streisand at the United Center (photo by Kathy Piccone).

By now, the whole world knows that Chicago designer Azeeza Khan has designed a wardrobe for Barbra Streisand's summer tour! Azeeza is no stranger to celeb dressing having had stars like Beyonce and Sarah Jessica Parker already wearing her designs but she seemed particularly excited about this big collaboration and no wonder! In a Tribune article by David Syrek,

Barbra Streisand performs in London on July 7 2019 wearing a black gown by Azeeza. (Dave J. HoganGettyDave J HoganGetty Images for Ba)

Barbra Streisand performs in London on July 7 wearing a black gown by Azeeza named the "Barbra." (Dave J. HoganGettyDave J HoganGetty Images for Ba)

Khan said she became acquainted with Streisand through a hook-up by a store manager at Barney's where Azeeza's line is exclusive. Babs had seen her designs there and, voila, here we are! Their meetings at Streisand’s California home resulted in the singer wearing a show-stopping black ruffled silk gown (now dubbed “The Barbara,” that will retail for $2995) designed by Khan as Streisand performed her classic song “The Way We Were” in London early last month. During her United Center gig, Babs acknowledged "Chicago designer Azeeza" from the stage. How cool is that?! Since those meetings, Khan has created about 30 pieces for the star for on and off the stage. You go girl!

________________________________________________________________________

LIPS Chicago opens in Chicago Aug. 23!

LIPS Chicago is opening on Friday, August 23 at 2229 S. Michigan Avenue! Billed as the "ultimate in drag dining" and the "only true La Cage experience in the Windy City", the venue offers drinks, dinner and, of course drag entertainment. LIPS started as a small drag restaurant in the West Village of NYC in 1984. The restaurant has grown over the years and today Miss

LIPS Chicago at 2229 S. Michigan.

Yvonne Lame' rules over her "drag empire" with show palaces from coast to coast. Today Lips has venues in New York, Georgia, Florida, California and now Chicago. Dinner with The Divas, Twisted Broadway, Dragalicious Gospel Brunch, Glitz and Glamour, Superstar Sundays and TABOO – The Dirty Show are just a few of the many shows that will grace the Lips stages. For more details, click here!

________________________________________________________________________

Nan Giordano holds her Lifetime Achievement Award surrounded by the Company, Michael McStraw and friends.

Love and congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago's artistic director Nan Giordano who recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Star Dance Alliance, one of the nation's most prestigious competition dance entities! The award was presented in Secaucus, New Jersey, during their annual gala on August 1. For a surprise,the Company's ten main dancers were flown in, along with executive director Michael McStraw! They performed excerpts from "Flickers" (choreographed by Marinda Davis) during the gala in her honor! Congrats, congrats, congrats! GDC is attracting eyeballs all over the world!

________________________________________________________________________

EXPO CHICAGO returns to Navy Pier September 19 through the 22nd! Opening night, Vernissage, is Thursday, September 19, beginning with a Collector and Professional Preview at noon, an opening preview at 3 pm and then Vernissage from 6-9 pm. Besides the one-of-a-kind artwork, you will experience the BEST people watching around! It's like a show within a show! For tickets, more info, click here!

_______________________________________________________________________

In a one-night-only opportunity to see Chicago’s leading ladies of musical theatre on stage together, Season of Concern (SOC) presents “Second City Divas—In Concert,” a benefit performance Monday, September 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue. Season of Concern is the Chicago theatre community’s fundraising effort to provide financial assistance to those in the community impacted by illness, injury or circumstance. A virtual “who’s who” of Chicago’s musical theatre, the performers who have committed to date include: Roberta Duchak (also musical director), Cheryl Avery, Kelly Clark, Ariane Dolan, Mary Ernster, Lara Filip, Kitty Fishman, Linda Fortunato, Cory Goodrich, Anne Gunn, Heidi Kettenring, Tammy Mader, Kim Mallory,

Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue

Susie McMonagle, Johanna McKenzie Miller, Susan Moniz, Liz Pazik, Hollis Resnik, Peggy Roeder, Sharon Sacks, MaryBeth Samuelson, Jill Shellabarger, Cathy Smitko and Linda Waner. Created 32 years ago, Season of Concern has raised more than $3 million to benefit hundreds of people in the entertainment industry—actors, directors, designers, technicians, playwrights—who are unable to work due to illness, injury or circumstance, as well as offer support to more than 35 Chicago-based AIDS direct-care service organizations.

________________________________________________________________________

After School Matters will host its annual gala on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Wintrust Arena! Enjoy an evening of engaging teen program exhibits, cocktails and dinner and spectacular performances. Help show our teens how much they MATTER! For tickets/more info, click here! The Chicago Children's Advocacy Center will host its annual "Night of Heroes" on Wed., Oct. 2 at TAO Chicago! Help this nonprofit battle child abuse and restore lives! Event details here!

Other BIG, not-to-missed events include: Share Your Soles at Carnivale on Friday, Aug. 23; Navy Seals Evening of Tribute with Ambassador Nikki Haley on Wednesday, September 4 at the Hilton Chicago; Gala of the Arts on Friday, Sept. 6 at Navy Pier; Patrick Lives On on Saturday September 7 at The Chop Shop; After School Matters on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Wintrust Arena; Imerman Angels Mission Possible on Friday, Sept. 20 at Morgan MFG; Cook County Health Foundation Gala on Wed., Sept. 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Gilda's Night Out hosted by Gilda's Club Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Park West; Dance for Life on Saturday, Aug. 17 (performance at the Auditorium Theater followed by gala at the Hilton Chicago); Green Tie Ball's "I Dream of Greenie" with rocker Pete Wentz on Friday, Sept. 13 at the Alhambra Palace; The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center's Fall Benefit, Bright Futures on Friday, Sept. 6 at Theater on the Lake; Joffrey Ballet's Jane Eyre Luncheon on Tuesday, October 8 at the Hilton Chicago; Jackson Chance Foundation's Ping Pong Ball on Thursday, November 14 at the St. Jane Hotel; Friends of Prentice's An Evening in Oz on Saturday, October 26 at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel; The Service Club of Chicago's Flight of Fantasy Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Four Seasons Chicago; Police Foundation Gala on Sat., November 2 at the Four Seasons; FLAIR Visions of Elegance presented by The Chicago Lighthouse on Friday, Sept, 13 at the Drake; Susan G. Komen's All Bets on Pink gala on Saturday, October 26 at the Palmer House; Victory Gardens Theater's Chicago Stories gala on Saturday, October 5 at the Four Seasons Hotel; Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit Luncheon (keynote speaker Martin Short) on Friday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Giordano Dance Chicago's Dancing with the Giordano Stars on Thursday, Oct. 3 at Park West; Working in the Schools' (WITS) Blackboard Affair on Saturday, October 26 at the Geraghty; Auditorium Theatre's Annual Fall Gala on Saturday, November 16 at the Palmer House with Chicago Celebrates Sondheim! performance following at the theater; Brushes with Cancer presents Twist Out Cancer at Moonlight Studios on Saturday, November 2; Chicago Research Fund's Children's Ball on Saturday, December 7 at the Hilton Chicago; Saving tiny Hearts Gala on Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Fairmont; Chicago Consular Corps Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Hilton Chicago; Chicago Botanic Garden's Harvest Party on Friday, Sept. 13 at the Garden; PAWS Chicago Fur Ball on Friday, November 15 at the Drake (co-chaired by our own Frances Renk!); Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago's Centennial Gala on Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Institute; James R. Jordan Foundation's Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser on Thursday, November 14 at the Palmer House; White Summer Soiree hosted by the Benjamin Marshall Society at 999 N. Lake Shore Drive on Wed. August 14; Adler Planetarium's Celestial Ball on Saturday, Sept. 7 at the Planetarium; Chicago Men's Fashion Awards hosted by the Chicago Costume Council on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Louis Vuitton Michigan Ave; Little Italy Festa starts Thursday, Aug. 15 in the Taylor Street Neighborhood, 1516 W. Taylor.

And I hope you can join me this Sunday, August 11, when I will be honored with the Legacy Award by The Happiness Club at Park West! Hamilton's Miguel Cervantes will receive the Artist of the Year Award. He will sing and I will dance with the kids. (Lord help me!) For tickets/more info, please click here! The Happiness Club (co-chaired yearly by Maureen and Marc Schulman) provides a positive influence for kids through the arts.

That's all for now! Hope you enjoyed this week's Candid Candace, the go-to blog for Chicago and beyond! And, if not a subscriber, please sign in here! My list is never shared, only treasured.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And something to leave you with a smile!

2 Comments

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

Tagged as After School Matters, around town, arts and culture, Auditorium Theatre, Azeeza Khan, Barbra Streisand, Benjamin Marshall Society, Best blog, Bixbee Imagination Station, BLU, Brushes with Cancer, Candid Candace, Canine Companions for Independence, Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, Chicago Consular Corps, Chicago Costume Council, Chicago events, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago news, Chicago parties, Chicago Research Fund, Chicago Tribune Food Bowl, Cook County Health Foundation, Crain's Chicago Business, Dance for Life, Diana Ross, Dr. Bridget Coughlin, Dr. David Lubeck, elda de la rosa, Eversight Illinois, Expo Chicago, Fox Ford Lincoln, Frances Renk, Friends of Prentice, fundraisers, Giordano Dance Chicago, Green Tie Ball, Haute Dog Chicago, Hugh Hefner, Imerman Angels, Jackson Chance Foundation, James R. Jordan Foundation, Ji Suk Yi, Joffrey Ballet, Kehoe Designs, LGBTQ, Lips Chicago, Little Italy Festa, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Marc Schulman, Martin Short, Maureen Schulman, Michael Caputo, Michael Perich, Miguel Cervantes, Musicality, MyEyeDr, Mystery Masquerade, Nan Giordano, nightlife, nonprofits, Ocean Prime, Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago, parties, Patrick Lives On, PAWS Chicago, Pete Wentz, Playboy, Season of Concern, Second City Divas, Service Club of Chicago, Share Your Soles, Shedd Aquarium, Sherry Lea Holson, Social scene, Susan G. Komen, The Gnome Colony, The Happiness Club, The Steve Cochran Show, theater, things to do, U.S. Marines, Victory Gardens Theater, WGN Radio, where to go, Working in the Schools

April 29, 2019 · 12:47 pm

GIBSONS CELEBRATES 30 IN STYLE TO BENEFIT MISERICORDIA

Joffrey Ballet's UNGala; About Face Theatre's Wonka Ball; Chicago Children's Museum plays "Hide 'N Seek"; Final Throne Chicago (OMG); Ocean Prime; Porchlight Music Theatre's ICONS gala; Giordano Dance Chicago and Saks' cool fashion show/party; Something new at the Pen; Hall of Fame baby!; Anixter Center's Benefit for Ability; Opening night for Mart antiques show; Alexian Brothers "Bal de Fleur"; Rush Spring Luncheon; Howard's brand new book; JoinAgent, a cool, new modeling platform; Jen's Golden Birthday; Fun videos and SO Much MORE!

_______________________________________________________________________________

Legendary Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse turns 30!

Legendary Rush Street hotspot, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, celebrated its 30th anniversary in grand style on April 24 during a luncheon that benefited Misericordia Heart of Mercy. An overflow crowd turned out to celebrate with Gibsons' principals Steve Lombardo, Hugo Ralli, John Colletti, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Greg Horan and a host of regulars, longtime employees and loyal fans. The afternoon began with a

Rick Kogan led a panel discussion with Steve Lombardo, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Hugo Ralli, Greg Horan and John Colletti.

cocktail reception with passed hors d'oeuvres, followed by a 3-course meal with menu favorites like filet mignon, double baked potatoes, creamed spinach and macadamia turtle pie and carrot cake. Following lunch, Rick Kogan of the Chicago Tribune, hosted an hour-long retrospective panel

With Misericordia's Lois Gates and Sister Rosemary Connelly.

discussion with Gibsons' afore mentioned partners. It was a fascinating discussion that touched on the early days (when every pencil was counted and they had no take-home bags) to the heady, celeb-filled days (that are ongoing). Kathy shared a touching story of one of Mohammad Ali's last visits to the restaurant with tears in her eyes. She said Jack Nicholson told her NOT to protect his table from fans as he "needed all the love he

It was a full house for the 30th anniversary celebration!

can get." Billy Joel, a restaurant favorite, was told there would be a 45 minute wait before Kathy looked up and realized who was requesting a table. He still chose to wait like a normal customer (loved this). And Colletti shared an hysterically funny story about the time sexy actress Sharon Stone called for a carry out. John got to do the honors himself and was

2nd level private party. Video screens were provided for guests to enjoy the festivities downstairs too.

even offered a kiss of gratitude! I was surprised to learn how much input from customers inspired menu selections. Famed NFL quarterback and Chicago legend Sid Luckman was instrumental in deciding on the restaurant's signature desserts insisting they be big and bold. He even flew Steve to Miami to check out Wolfie's that is famous for over-sized servings. Still Steve wasn't convinced so Luckman had his driver pick up desserts from all over town to compare. The late Congressman Dan Rostenkowski had his wife Laverne give up her beloved coleslaw recipe and the famous Gibsons' ribs were

Partner/Hostess with the mostest Kathy O'Malley Piccone (Chicago Mag photo)

inspired by those served at the former popular Rush Street hot spot, Singapore. Steve spoke about how the name came about (see video here), a combination of many happenstances that included inspiration from the late John Gibson (a man-about-town

Congrats Peg and Steve Lombardo!

who worked for the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau), the Gibsons martini and the simple fact that they'd waited until the last minute to decide. The event upstairs was by-invite-only but tickets were offered at $100 each with all proceeds benefiting Misericordia, a nonprofit that supports over 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More than 300 people watched the panel discussion on screens set up downstairs at the restaurant so everyone could feel they were a part of the celebration. It was a thrill to relive the memories and see so many iconic photos as they scrolled on multiple screens throughout the event. Although, my fondest memory was getting engaged the day the restaurant opened and going there to celebrate, as we still do for every milestone (and just for fun too). Love and congrats Gibsons! You just keep getting better with age! 🙂

________________________________________________________________________

Joffrey Community Engagement dancers and Academy of Dance students performed.

It was definitely not your grandma's gala and it was a pure delight! I think The Joffrey Ballet's UNGala (see video here!) was just what the doctor ordered and that it heralds winds of change in the event world. I love the idea of something unique and unexpected, especially since it seems like I've

UNgala Experience_Photo Credit Vin Reed (14)

Performance artists everywhere you looked!

gone to almost every party/gala/ball in town since 1974. Years ago, my friend Helen Melchior and I came up with a similar concept for the Joffrey, an event we named "Couture & Cocktails," which was a departure from their usual event fare. We offered a

Coco Meers Laura Kofoid Anne Kaplan Greg Cameron Ashley Wheater Noren Ungaretti Anne Lazar Zachary Lazar_Photo Credit Dan Rest

Co-chairs Coco Meers and Laura Kofoid (front left) w/ Anne Kaplan, Greg Cameron, Ashley Wheater, WB pres. Noren Ungaretti, Anne Lazar and Zach Lazar. (Photo by Dan Rest)

fashion show experience along with White Castle hamburgers served on silver trays, all at unique venues, and so much more. For 7 years, it was the Joffrey's second largest fundraiser after its gala. These days, people in the know in the event planning world are learning that the word "gala" does not have the connotation they are

Jack Andrews Chili Pepper_Photo Credit Dan Rest

Jack Andrews with Chilli Pepper (Photo by Dan Rest)

hoping their parties will have these days. I know of many who are removing the word "ball" or "gala" from their invite. Just recently, during a planning meeting for the Eversight Gift of Sight event (formerly gala), we decided to remove that word and replace it with "celebration." (Shameless plug here: Michael

Levoi Brown Erin Brown_Photo Credit Dan Rest

Levoi and Erin Brown. (Photo by Dan Rest).

Caputo and I are co-chairing this event again this year–with honoree Sherry Lea Holson–on October 24, details here). Times are a-changing and I think this word denotes a thing of the past, at least at this point in time. Partygoers are now looking for unique experiences for their charity dollars and I don't blame them, I am too. I remember when the Red Moon Theatre Company first came into being–I was blown away by its creativity. I saw things I'd never seen before and loved every minute of it. I wanted to be at any party that they were a part of. Sadly, they no

Yuka Iwai Hansol Jeong_ Photo Credit Dan Rest

Yuka Iwai and Hansol Jeong (Photo by Dan Rest).

longer exist but I'm hoping something else will pop up along these lines like the Joffrey Ballet's UNGala did on April 12. This party had all of these elements and more for a fabulous, must-attend event, held for the first time at the Lyric Opera House (which will be the Joffrey's permanent home in 2020). Stilt walkers dancing in the aisles and

Anne Kaplan Dia Weil_Photo Credit Dan Rest

Anne Kaplan and Dia Weil (Photo by Dan Rest).

blowing bubbles, Joffrey Community Engagement Dancers and Academy of Dance students (see video here!) featured in pop-up performances on 3 levels, fun food from Jewell Events Catering, dramatic decor from HMR Designs, magicians, performance artists, drag queens (Maya Douglas, Chilli Pepper, Mimi Marks, Honey West) and so much more. I was on complete sensory overload, just like my first trip to Disneyland, and I loved every minute of it. Congrats to the creative co-chairs and Women's Board members Laura Kofoid and Coco Meers and to the company itself, led by artistic director Ashley Wheater and Greg Cameron, president/CEO. Just like the event, the company keeps pushing boundaries on what's expected, bringing brand new work to its delighted audiences on an ongoing basis. UNBelievable!

________________________________________________________________________

Leppen Leadership Award recipient Precious Brady-Davis (center) with AFT Artistic Director Megan Carney (L) and co-chair Mary Morten.

More than 300 guests joined About Face Theatre for WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno on April 12, at Venue West. Chicago’s celebrated lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and allied (LGBTQIA) theatre company raised nearly $65,000 for its programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. Decked out in polyester leisure suits and platform shoes, guests were immersed in the lush world of drag, disco and decadent club culture. The

Diego Rocha, Devin Marshall and Chris Schmidt.

evening paid homage to the legendary champions of ball culture started by LGBTQIA communities of color. Crowds sipped cocktails and savored delectable treats at food stations while enjoying live entertainment by host Cleo Pockalipps and disco-infused

AFT board pres Becky Huinker and AFT artistic director Megan Carney.

music and dancing curated by CircuitMOM productions. The party also featured an exclusive VIP reception, dozens of silent auction items, plus a live auction and raffle including tickets to Queen and Adam Lambert’s North American Rhapsody Tour and a private yacht party on Lake Michigan. Co-Chaired by Willa

AK Miller, DJ CircuitMOM, AFT Dir. of Institutional Giving Benjamin Sprunger and David Hackett.

Taylor, Mary Morten and Aaron Kacel with honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek (WGN TV/Comcast), the party included the presentation of the annual Leppen Leadership Awards. The 2019 recipients were Affinity Community Services, a social justice organization serving the needs of the Black LGBTQ

Raphael Sangel and honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek.

community of Chicago with a particular focus on Black women and Precious Brady-Davis, a local award-winning diversity advocate, communications professional and public speaker. Micah Manternach, Sharon Pasia and Jimbo Pestano were honored with the About Face Youth Theatre MVP Award, presented annually to outstanding youth theatre ensemble members for exceptional service to the company and to the greater LGBTQIA community. Proceeds from WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno support the theatre's award-winning mainstage programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. (Photos by Timmy Samuel)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Jessica Dedow, Kelsey Paternoster, Gabriela Crowley and Franki Smurro.

Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) opened its doors to more than 250 supporters for the 9th annual Hide 'N Seek event on March 30. The event raised over $75,000 to support the museum’s community inclusion initiatives which welcome almost 140,000 people from underserved neighborhoods every year. The CCM board, along with the event’s host

Board co-presidents Megan Clower, Ruthie Neumeier and Leslie Venetz.

committee, created a "Roaring 20s" theme for the party that included blackjack and roulette casino games, an aerialist performance, a flip cup game sponsored by Coyote Logistics, a Smilebooth gifbooth and more. DJ Michael Hill along with live music from

Kristin Atchison and cute friend on the dance floor.

The Chicago Players transformed the Great Hall into a dance floor. The DineAmic Hospitality Group provided all of the evening’s decadent appetizers, with representation from Public House, Siena Tavern, Bar Siena, Bombobar, Prime & Provisions, Barrio and La Bodega. The party

Cute party guests!

continued at LIQR BOX, Hide 'N Seek’s official after party. The mission of the nonprofit museum is to improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect by providing play-filled experiences that include more than 15 interactive exhibits and daily programming. CCM aims to deliver at least one-third of its total annual attendance opportunities to low-income or under-served community members. (Photos by Beking Media)

________________________________________________________________________

Final Throne Chicago,809 W. Evergreen. OMG!

The authenticity is astounding! Final Throne Chicago, a Game of Thrones-inspired pop-up party bar at 809 W. Evergreen, opened on April 20, and it is a must see if you're a fan of HBO's Game of Thrones. I'm a total geek for this show so this experience was like visiting Disneyland for

The Night King at Final Throne Chicago.

the first time for me. (Take a video tour here!) The theme envelops you as soon as you step inside the door and travel along the top of the "Wall" to enter the space. There, Daenerys and Khal Drogo greet you in full costume looking every inch the real characters they represent on TV.The main level houses the outstanding Hall of Faces, eerily detailed, where bartenders dressed as

Khal Drogo and Daenerys greeting guests at Final Throne Chicago.

henchmen serve "White Walker" Johnny Walker scotch, Game of Thrones chardonnay and red wine, along with many other cocktail choices, some served out of chalices. The great white Weirwood tree, from the godswood of Winterfell, spreads its branches in the entryway, with periodic snowfalls. Crazy, right?! Then, you move around the corner and there it is, the Iron

Mother of Dragons wanna be.

Throne in all its majesty, just like you remembered it. I couldn't wait to sit on it and feel the power. Cersei, I'm coming for you! Upstairs is another complete GOT

Final Throne Chicago

experience, this time inspired by Littlefinger's lair (brothel) on the Street of Silk in King's Landing–dragon alert here! The decor makes you feel like you're there–everything is bathed in red and very, very decadent. Loved, loved, loved it! The dungeon downstairs houses the wicked Night King, all 8 feet of him–another perfect photo opp. I'm telling you, I just about lost my mind here! Can you tell? I can't wait to go back and bring friends. WINTER is DEFINITELY HERE, Final Throne Chicago, 809 W. Evergreen Ave., 312.535.3355. (Take a video tour here with Daenerys, Drogo and me!)

________________________________________________________________________

Ocean Prime, awesome at 87 E. Wacker Drive.

Chicago seems to be exploding with new restaurants and, as much as this pleases me, it hasn't been so good for my waistline, yet, I soldiered on. We tried my favorite of the bunch (so far), Ocean Prime, a hot steakhouse and seafood restaurant located at 87 E. Wacker Drive on the 2nd floor of LondonHouse. From the elegant, chic decor to the delicious menu (created by executive chef Jason Shelley), the place was perfect in every way. A beautifully

Ocean Prime

appointed bar was packed with laughing guests with corner views to die for. The space features four private dining rooms with stunning views of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue. The Wrigley Room accommodates up to 66 guests or can be divided into 3 smaller spaces. For a

Ocean Prime's beautiful art deco inspired decor.

more intimate dining experience, the Tribune Room accommodates up to 14 guests in an elegant wood-paneled space. Our server Heather was excellent and pointed out popular dishes like the variety of fish choices that ranged from blackened snapper to Florida grouper to Chilean sea bass, all prepared in a unique style by the chef. Sides were equally delicious and included smoked gouda tater tots, lobster mashed potatoes, parmesan truffle fries, white truffle caviar deviled eggs, goat cheese ravioli and so much more. There's even an extensive

And you run into just the nicest peeps there too–with Whitney Reynolds, her husband David Heiner and my Chuck.

selection of sushi as well as a raw bar. Just for fun, Heather brought us a signature cocktail "Berries & Bubbles", a complicated concoction of Belvedere citrus vodka, marinated berries, fresh lemon and Domaine Chandon Brut, all bubbling over with dry ice and smoke. It was so cool! We can't wait to go back! Congratulations to GM Louis Morgan III, Crystal Lining (sales and event manager), Maureen DeLuca (dining room manager) and, of course Chef Jason. It was a winner–delightful experience in a magnificent setting! Ocean Prime has 16 locations across the country and is open for lunch and dinner. 312.428.4344.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

PMT's 25th anniversary chairs Bill Kurtis, Donna La Pietra Kurtis and Deann and Rick Bayless.

Porchlight Music Theatre celebrated 24 years and announced its 25th Anniversary Co-Chairs at its ICONS Gala brunch on March 31 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. The event set a new attendance record with 300 guests and broke fundraising records for Porchlight’s artistic and educational programs. The elegant brunch, chaired by Tamara Sims, included performances from Chicago’s leading talents that celebrated the legendary career of Jerome Robbins; the presentation of The Luminary Award to Jean Klingenstein and the introduction of the 25th Anniversary Chairs– Rick and

PMT artistic director Michael Weber, Commissioner of Chicago's Dept. of Cultural Affairs & Special Events Mark Kelly and PMT exec. dir. Jeannie Lukow.

Deann Bayless and Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra. Since it was a Porchlight special event, music and performances took center stage with David Fiorello, pianist and vocalist,

Billy Marovitz, Asia Gajderowicz, Julian and Rhona Frazin (PMT board member).

serving as musical director with Yulia Block on the drums and Lara Regan on reeds. Fiorello and the band performed Jerome Robbins-inspired numbers beginning with one of the stars of Porchlight’s recent hit A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder, Andrés Enriquez, singing “Something’s Coming” from West Side Story. Executive director Jeannie Lukow welcomed guests and shared a recap of Porchlight's stellar year that

PMT Young Professional Committee members Becca Sheehan, Cody Czymr and Carolyn Isaac.

included the critical, audience and financial successes of Gypsy starring E. Faye Butler and the aforementioned A Gentleman’s Guide; the highest number of subscribers in

PMT exec. dir. Jeannie Lukow, 2018 Luminary Award recipient Jim Jensen and 2019 Luminary Award winner Jean Klingenstein with PMT artistic dir. Michael Weber.

Porchlight’s history and the expansion of its educational programming in Chicago’s public schools. The Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department of Cultural and Special Events Mark Kelly spoke about the Year of Chicago Theatre and how Porchlight's productions reflect Chicago’s place as a performing arts leader on a global scale. Artistic director Michael Weber spoke about

Husband/wife performers Shanna VanDerwerker and Justin Brill.

Robbins’ storied life and career including videos and photos of him and the many productions he was affiliated with including On the Town.

PMT Board of Directors.

The tribute to Klingenstein began with multi-Jeff Award-winning Donica Lynn singing “One,” from A Chorus Line with the 300+ crowd joining in a musical salute to this year’s award recipient. Jeff-Award winner and star of Porchlight’s Gypsy, E. Faye Butler, performed “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from the Robbins musical that brought the crowd to their feet. Lucy Godinez and Michelle Lauto ended the brunch with their rendition of “A Boy Like That” from West Side Story. (Photos by Michael Courier).

_________________________________________________________________________

With GDC dancers Zachary Heller, Jacob Frazier, Ashley Downs, Katie Rafferty and Adam Houston.

Giordano Dance Chicago blew the doors off the spring fashion show presentation held at Saks Fifth Avenue (Michigan Avenue) on April 11. Matt Brown, Saks VP and general manager, welcomed guests. He was a former

Richard Weinberg, GDC artistic dir. Nan Giordano and Michael Caputo.

"Dancing with the Giordano Stars" participant and, not only does he know his fashion but he knows dance too! Nena Ivon, a longtime Saks fashion director and author of Nena's Notes, produced the show that included dancers, models and former Star participants Christine D'hondt

With show producer Nena Ivon and her fabulous models.

and her husband Chris D'hondt, Joe Brown, Kip Helverson (board president) and Dr. Stacie McClane. The dancers opened the show and performed throughout as well as participating as models. Their "Momentum" number awed the crowd and had everyone hooting and clapping along. (See it here!) (Don't miss a GDC performance, click here for info!)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Millennium Park room, a fab new event space at the Peninsula.

Congrats to the award-winning Peninsula Chicago! While many are lamenting the loss of its beautiful bar on the lobby level, fear not! A brand new, elegant event space has taken its place. Millennium Park will seat 135 or so for that

Debut party entertainment provided by Ken Arlen.

perfect party. The oversized fireplace and windows overlooking the city will make this your go-to destination for after-parties, private events and more. A private debut party featured delicious food by the Pen's master chefs, beautiful decor by Kehoe Designs and great music by Ken Arlen performers. (Take a video tour here with an intro by the Pen's PR whiz Susan Ellefson!)

_________________________________________________________________________

Hall of Fame baby! I was so thrilled to receive the news that BizBash, a national industry magazine and event platform, chose me as an inductee into its 2019 Hall of Fame! The ceremony will take place at the Museum of Science & Industry on Wednesday, May 15. The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Barbara Lee Cohen (Productions USA). I will be honored along with Lori Adlesick (Choose Chicago), Jack Luft (Hall's Rentals), Karen Malone (HIMSS) and Michael Nishi and Carey Pinkowski (Chicago Event Management). The Rising Star Award will be presented to Morgan Bucciferro (Chicago Cubs). I am beyond thrilled! #InviteOnly

________________________________________________________________________

The Anixter Center will host its 8th annual Benefit for Ability Celebrating a Century of Service on Wednesday, May 15 at the 1914 Club at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison). Chaired by Dominick Mondi, the event will honor the Anixter Family for its commitment to serving those with disabilities. (For tickets, more info, click here.)

On Friday, May 16, join the Woman's Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital for its 3rd annual Chicago Antiques + Art + Design Show opening night benefit. The show will feature over 75 dealers exhibiting fine antique furniture, decorative and fine arts and more at the Merchandise Mart (May 17th through 19th). For tickets, more info, click here!

On Saturday, May 4, the Alexian Brothers Foundation will host "Bal de Fleur" at Rockwell on the River (3057 N. Rockwell). Funds raised will go towards the Foundation's AMITA health initiative which provides access to programs and services for behavorial medicine, homelessness, chronic illness, the autism spectrum and developmental disorders, when and where people need it. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center will host its 25th annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, May 7 at the Hilton Chicago. The event will feature Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN Special Envoy on Climate Change. Funds raised will support service programs supported by the WB of Rush University Medical Center. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

__________________________________________________________________________

Superhero Howard Tullman.

Huge congrats are in order for Chicago's own Howard A. Tullman, tech guru/serial entrepreneur/author/and all-round nice guy. His latest book, "You Can't Win A Race With Your Mouth: And 299 Other Expert Tips From a Lifelong Entrepreneur" is a must-read! Filled with tips, truths and advice, this book is the ultimate "source" for business and life in general. And even though Howard is always several steps ahead of anyone I know, the book is straight-forward and easy to read. (To purchase, please click here. You will be doing yourself a favor, believe me).

_________________________________________________________________________

Are you a model or an actress who is tired of the old way of doing business? Well, there's a new game in town and it's quite a disruptor. Welcome Agent, a brand new platform that puts the talent in charge. Establish your own rate, monitor and update your page and even RATE your clients/bookings! I love this new idea and am behind it 100% (as a matter of fact, I'm already signed up). I sat down for a chat with its creator, Mark Willingham, at RL the other day and I loved what I heard. He was in town doing press for this new idea and was introduced to me by the Tribune's Larry Wert, who also backs the platform. "We're interested in providing a safer, more transparent environment for both the talent and client," Willingham said. I think this is an idea whose time has come. Currently, the platform is available in L.A., NYC, Miami, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, San Diego, Seattle and now Chicago. Check out all the details here, see video below and let me know what you think!

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Beautiful birthday lady Jennifer Sutton Brieva celebrating at Marchesa.

One of Chicago's most popular girls-around-town, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, celebrated her Golden Birthday (50th) at the posh restaurant Marchesa recently with a room full of friends and family. Hosted by her handsome hubby, Dr. Joaquin Brieva, the event was all Old Hollywood Glamour put together by a "dream

Party girls!

team" of event professionals including Debi Lilly (A Perfect Event), Kathryn Alevera and Jason Clark (Marchesa) and beloved photog Mila Samokhina. Jennifer's passion for the Golden Era of Hollywood inspired everything from "gold" place settings accompanied by a framed photo of a silver screen legend to the music. Cole Porter and George Gershwin favorites were performed by

Party boys!

one of Chicago's popular bandleader's Bill Pollack. A three-tiered show stopper cake was prepared by Toni's Patisserie and topped off the decadent dinner designed by Michelin-starred Chef Didier. Once the dining and

Jennifer with Todd Hatoff and hubby/host Dr. Joaquin Brieva.

toasts came to a close, the group ascended downstairs to continue celebrating in The Cave with local celebrity mixologist Nikki Friar for drinks and dancing to 70s and 80s music. It was a magical evening for all and the perfect soiree for a classic beauty who loves to dance! “At this point in my life I

Elegant cake by Toni's Patisserie and floral decor and design by Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event.

know who and what matters most. I’ve stopped trying to fit into anyone else’s version of who they think I should be – what to believe or who to like. I'm grateful for loyal friends, support of family, the unconditional love of my cat and a true partnership with the love of my life who holds my hand

Julia Jacobs, Jennifer's gorgeous mother SharonAnn Louden, Lori Allen, Jen and Julianne Glatz.

through it all,” Jenny said. Guests, who flew in from all over to attend, included Sharon Ann Louden, David Sutton II, David Sutton III, and Lonnie Sue Sutton from Colorado; John and Julianne

Jennifer with JP Anderson, Michigan Ave Mag's editor-in-chief.

Donohue from Canada; Kelley McCarthy from St. Louis and Jodi Wilmot from Cleveland. Chicago guests included Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff, Christopher Dovalina, Verne Thomas, J.P. Anderson, Steven Hearn, Julia Jacobs, Lori Allen, Tammy Kohl, Leah Chavie, Norma Rixter, Ben Soldinger, Kimberly and Jeffrey Postma, Diala and Henry Joseph, Martha and Magnus Ottenborn, and Lisa and Jeremy Kerman. Love and Happy BD dear Jenny!

________________________________________________________________________

Don't forget to mark your calendars now for "RETROSPECT," a brand new vintage fashion experience brought to you by the same cool folks from Randolph Street Market ! The event will include a preview of "Funny Face" at the Music Box Theatre on May 2, an upscale vintage market (May 3/4 and a killer fashion show (May 3), produced by Nena Ivon (Nena's Notes)! Join us! All the exciting details here!

________________________________________________________________________

Chris Renk Principal Sr Partner at Banner & Witcoff and his team receiving the Impact Case of the Year Award.

Chris Renk and his Banner & Witcoff team after receiving Impact Case of the Year Award in NYC.

Congrats are also in order for Chris Renk, principal senior partner at the law firm Banner & Witcoff. He and his team were recently awarded with the Impact Case of the Year Award for their work representing Converse in its trademark battle against entities selling knock-off versions of the company’s iconic Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker. Kudos Team Renk!

______________________________________________________________________

That's it for this week! I hope you've endured our extreme weather changes in APRIL?! One day, we were laying in the sun and the next

WTF?

day, building snowmen! Also, don't forget, if you have something exciting to share, send it my way: candacejordan@rcn.com and, if not a subscriber, please sign in here! (My list is never shared, only treasured).

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile…..I could watch this allllll day long!

4 Comments

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as About Face Theatre, Agent, Alexian Brothers, Anixter Center, Ashley Wheater, Ball de Fleur, Banner and Witcoff, Bill Kurtis, Billy Joel, Brian Smith, Chicago, Chicago blog, Chicago Children's Museum, Chilli Pepper, Chris Renk, CircuitMom, Cook County Assessor's Office, Dan Rostenkowski, Deann Bayless, Donna La Pietra, Eversight gala, Final Throne Chicago, fundraisers, Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse, Gift of Sight, Giordano Dance Chicago, Greg Cameron, Helen Melchior, HMR Designs, Howard A. Tullman, Howard Tullman, Jack Nicholson, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, Jewell Events Catering, Joffrey Ballet, Kathy O'Malley, Kathy Piccone, Kehoe Designs, Ken Arlen, Laura Kofoid, Matt Brown, Maya Douglas, Michael Caputo, Millennium Park, Mimi Marks, Misericordia, MyEyeDr, Nan Giordano, Nena Ivon, nightlife, nonprofits, Ocean Prime, parties, party scene, Peg Lombardo, Peninsula Chicago, Porchlight Music Theatre, Precious Brady-Davis, Red Moon Theatre Company, Rick Bayless, Rick Kogan, Rush Medical Center, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sharon Stone, Steve Lombardo, things to do in Chicago, UNGala, Wonka Ball, York Furs

February 18, 2013 · 1:01 pm

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!

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
event. 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
programming. 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
a 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
Fields, 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
Neeson, 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
Publishing 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
entering, 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
artist 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
featured 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
blue 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
chains 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
their 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
macaroni 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.
After 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
buffet 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.
Before the performance, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn gathered the co-chairs on stage for welcoming remarks, thanking them for
their 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
a 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
oversized 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
Heffernan 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 –
they 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.)

The 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
by 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
special 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
welcoming 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.)

I 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
participated 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
culture 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
repertoire 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.)

If 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,”
was 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!

I 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
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!!!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=N5bmo1OTqfFnDjEh-GbTPCkYrl-QF5ZI&version=2

The 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
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.
McCarter 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
MBA 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
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.

Congrats 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
won 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.
While 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
Mercy 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,
athletics, 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!)

The 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.
This 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,
RedEye, 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
Anupy 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
speaker 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!

http://media.nbcchicago.com/assets/pdk449/pdk/swf/flvPlayer.swf?pid=PEe98WS9IYL6

Little 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
(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
Campaign 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
homeless 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
fundraising 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.

“Evening 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
the 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
organization 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
organization 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
will 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.

Drum 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! 🙂

Bunky 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
icon. 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
Davis, 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
Bodine, 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
scene 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
crème 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
New 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!)

On 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
charities 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
be 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!

A 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!

“Night 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!

Get 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 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!

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!

Love, 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!