Tag Archives: Randolph Street Market

September 23, 2019 · 11:22 am

THE CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE: A FLAIR FOR FASHION AND FUNDRAISING

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

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Honorees Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz.

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

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

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

Fashion show producer Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions)

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

Kim Gleeson and Cheri Lawrence.

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

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

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

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

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

Alex Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou.

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

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

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

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

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

Holly Twardak and Helena Kogiones.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laura Glick, Lisa Bertagna and Mihra Seta.

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

Pamela Vargas and William Weinstein.

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

David Silverman and Lilly Farahnakian (2019 event chair).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheryl Burton conducts a convo with Meloday Spann Cooper.

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

It was a packed house!

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

Buy this book!

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

Follow her on Insta–@melodyspanncoooper.

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

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

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

James Sliwa, Chief Medical Officer.

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

Michael Swan, Breanne Littleton and Tony Seaman.

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

Daniel D., Mary and Danny Dolan.

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

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

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

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

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

BSF Foursome sponsored by GATX.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Symphony Ball performance.

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

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Gala dinner at the Four Seasons.

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

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Maestro Muti with Leif Ove Andsnes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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We tried to get into Chef Darius Williams new Soul Crab Chicago

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Chef Darius Williams.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as 900 Shops, Aces UP, Adler Planetarium, Alexi Giannoulias, Autism Glows, Avett Ray, Big Shoulders Fund, Canine Companions for Independence, Captain James Lovell, Chef Darius Williams, Cheryl Coleman, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago events, Chicago parties, Chicago Public Library Foundation, chicago theatre, Chris Zorich, Chuck Jordan, Cirque du Soleil, Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, Dancing with the Giordano Stars, Event news, Fig Media, FLAIR, Fleurs de Villes, Fox Lincoln, fundraisers, Giancarlo Turano, Giordano Dance Chicago, Greg Hyder, Haute Dog Chicago, Jack's Pumpkin Glow, Jane Eyre Luncheon, Joffrey Ballet, La Rabida, Lightscape, Linda Johnson Rice, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Madison Square Garden Company, Melody Spann Cooper, Michelle Mekky, Mila Samokhina, Muslim American Leadership Alliance, MyEyeDr, Navy Pier, nonprofits, Pier Pumpkin Lights, Randolph Street Market, Richard Roeper, Ron Katz, Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner, Shine and Dine, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Soul Crab Chicago, Step Up, Steppenwolf, Symphony Ball, The Chicago Lighthouse, The Peninsula Chicago, things to do, Tim King, Twas the Night Before, Urban Prep, White Pine Fall Fest, WVON, York Furs

August 23, 2019 · 9:54 am

LE DINER EN BLANC, THE SUPER SECRET POP-UP, IS A RECORD-BREAKER

Plus: The Happiness Club sings and dances; Livin' the high life at Tribune Tower; Porchlight Music Theatre's night of song; Thoughts on the Air & Water Show; Music Box Theatre has a LOT to celebrate; REELING Film Fest; Mane in Heaven's main event; Dr. Sandy's A Sterling Event; The film doctor is in da' house; Rush Street Reunion; Driehaus Museum Gala; Chefs' Playground Reimagined; Costume Council's Men's Fashion Awards; "Come From Away" returns to the Cadillac!; Lisa's Teal Lights Celebration Cruise; Lauren and Tom tie the knot; Benjamin Marshall Society's E. Lake Shore Drive soiree; Chicago Tribune Food Bowl's Night Market; Made in Chicago's Michael Perich and The Gnome Colony; This & That; Darling videos and so much MORE!

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Guests setting up for Diner en Blanc.

This year marked the 8^thannual Le Dîner en Blanc Chicago, the city's largest, secret culinary pop-up event that is held in an undisclosed and unexpected public space. This year, a record-breaking 3,500 Chicagoans descended on Daley Plaza on August 8 to celebrate the Windy City in all its beauty with a staggering 30,000 people

Val wearing Kham'ryn B swing dress--IMG_6950

Windy City Live's Val Warner was a guest wearing a dress by Kham' ryn B. (Follow her on Insta at @valwarnerTV)

making up the waitlist for this secret event! Each summer in more than 80 cities around the world, thousands of people dressed entirely in white meet up at a landmark public space with everything they need for an elegant soirée in tow, including folding tables and chairs, gourmet picnic food, fine china, silverware and tablecloths. Over the course of the evening, guests eat and celebrate amid live music and dancing, many of them spending weeks in advance planning their lavish menus and striking ensembles. This year the event was hosted by Roger Hobby, James Wild, Lauren Haras and Brandy Koch. Here is Diner by the numbers–3,500 sparklers used, 2,040 bottles of wine and champagne enjoyed and 188 Diner en Blanc volunteers. Invitations for the event occur in three stages. Each invitation is for two people: Phase 1 is for members who attended the previous year’s event; Phase 2 is for new members who are sponsored by Phase 1

Val Warner, Tabby Cage, Karen Macklin.

attendees; and Phase 3 is for guests who register on the waiting list. In keeping with Le Dîner en Blanc’s unique tradition, guests observe a few key rules: Once confirmed, guests’ participation is essential; The dress code is simple, elegant, white outfits and accessories; The table setting should be all white. This is a green event, so no disposables; Wine and/or Champagne permitted through pre-purchase from the official e-store; Beer and hard liquor is prohibited; Non-alcoholic beverages welcome; The location is a secret. Guests meet at their selected

LaTanya Murphy, Tamika Smith, Keisha Holmes and Tia West.

departure point (this year, there were 20) and are escorted by a Dîner en Blanc volunteer to the secret event site. Le Dîner en Blanc's official partner was Glunz Wines with Chateau Ste. Michelle, Citi Bank and Sofitel serving as official national partners. The first Chicago event was held in August, 2012, in the South Gardens of the Art Institute of Chicago. Since then, the hosts have sought out significant Chicago venues throughout the city that are underutilized or have previously not been available for a public or private event including IIT, Pioneer Plaza, the Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Boardwalk, Federal Plaza and Queen’s Landing along Chicago’s lakefront. In June 2018, Le Diner en Blanc de Paris marked its 30th anniversary. A record 17,000 guests from Paris and around the world gathered at the Esplanade des Invalides to celebrate this historic moment. Launched in Paris in 1988 by François Pasquier and a handful of friends, Le Dîner en Blanc has become a worldwide epicurean phenomenon. (For more info, click here!)

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Miguel Cervantes, Artist of the Year honoree, sings with The Happiness Club kids!

I've been a huge fan of The Happiness Club ever since I first became aware of it through its longtime supporters Maureen and Marc Schulman. This organization does such good in our communities, providing a safe and happy place for kids. From Bronzeville to

Artistic director Tanji Harper Legacy Award winner Candace Jordan and benefit co-chair Maureen Schuman 190811_HC_632

Receiving The Happiness Club's Legacy Award from artistic director Tanji Harper and chair Maureen Schulman.

Englewood to Glenview and as far as Algonquin, The Happiness Club represents all levels of income and ethnicities. On Sunday, August 11 at Park West, all of their amazing talents were on full display during its signature

Co chairs Maureen and Marc Schulman with daughters Elana Hakey and Kori Schulman all Haooiness Club alums. DSC00304

Co chairs Maureen and Marc Schulman with daughters Elana, Haley and Kori Schulman, all proud Happiness Club alums.

fundraiser. The dance portion of the evening opened with The Happiness Club kids performing "Make it Through." A lot of the songs and dances are created solely by the kids in reaction to what they're experiencing so it's cathartic as well as

The alumni returned for a number singer songwriter Kaina (orange) just released her first album Next To The Sun and is on tour. 190811_HC_038

The alumni returned for a number, including singer/songwriter Kaina (orange) who just released her first album.

artistic. I was a proud Legacy Award honoree along Artist of the Year recipient Miguel Cervantes, Alexander Hamilton in the Chicago production of Hamilton the Musical. (See his moving acceptance speech here). I couldn't have been in better company and to be able to see

With Bethany Florek, Heinz Kern, Mary Ann Rose, John Robak, Miguel Cervantes and Chuck.

him rehearse and perform with the kids is a memory I'll always treasure. He is as kind as he is talented and it was a real privilege to be in the same room. During his number with the kids, Miguel chose a mash-up of The Jackson 5's I Want You Back with The Schuyler Sisters. Miguel sang and played the guitar. I made my "hip hop" debut (YIKES!) with a Happiness Club original song, Shake That Stress Off.

Just trying to keep up!

Also honored were students of the year, Dawn Butler, Amir Leonard and Levi Carroll and graduating high school seniors Quansaa Gordon and Aja Abron. The show was dedicated to Keith Harper, the Club's beloved sound engineer and artistic director Tanji Harper's father. Co

Richard Weinberg and Miguel Cervantes #8893

Richard Weinberg with Miguel Cervantes.

chairs Maureen and Marc announced the debut of the Keith Harper Memorial Fund for Songwriting. As a music lover and accomplished musician, Keith understood the value of the arts in the lives of young people and was an avid supporter of The Happiness Club's mission to give kids a safe space to express themselves through the arts and have the opportunity to create original music, dance and rap that encourage positive values and social change. A tribute

Some of the proud parents of The Happiness Club kids.

to the success of the program was apparent when over 30 alumni attended the benefit and performed the song Hate it Or Love It. Among

Greg Gallagher (Aliant Mesirow) and family.

them was Kaina, a singer/songwriter who recently released her first album, Next To The Sun, and is currently on tour with the O'My's and in the fall with Cuco. The evening included a silent auction and a Taste of Chicago buffet with food donated by Eli's Cheesecake, Lou Malnati's and Vienna Hot Dogs. Funds raised, $50,000, will be used to support the programs of The Happiness Club, a year round free performing arts education program for kids ages 8-21, and an after school dance program for high school

Candace miguel maureen really final 190811_HC_181

Thrill of a lifetime with Maureen, Miguel and The Happiness Club!

kids. The Happiness Club keeps kids safe and increases their confidence and communication skills through the arts. The diversity within the group allows kids to meet and become great

Jacqueline Hayes founder of Chicago Help Initiative with Migeul Cervantes 190811_HC_252

Jacqueline Hayes, founder of Chicago Help Initiative, with Miguel Cervantes.

friends with peers they would otherwise never have met. Exposure to live theater, homework space and assistance with resumes, applying for college grants, scholarships, and auditions support the aim to focus on the overall development of each member. The Kids have performed at the White House and most recently, at all 3 days of Lolla. (Check out their next performance dates here!)

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The cockroaches have definitely left the building at the newly refurbished Chicago Tribune Tower, now Tribune Tower condos. With a top asking price of $7.6 million, these beautiful condos have it all–outdoor terraces surrounded by Gothic finials with dramatic, drop-dead soaring architectural details and so much more. In a recent Crain's story, Lee Golub, principal of Chicago-based Golub & Co, spoke about the redevelopment project. "This iconic building is in a setting you can’t get anywhere else in the city." Crain's also reported that the developers bought the low-rise, eastern portion of the complex for $240 million. Inside, the condo finishes include 8-foot doors, white oak flooring, quartzite kitchen island tops and more for the building's 162 units. Prices range from the $700,000s to $7.6 million, At the lower end, in the $700,000s, buyers will get a one-bedroom with roughly 1,100 square feet and a balcony. In the castle-like top of the Tribune’s former tower, seven floors will contain five condominiums—two-story units at bottom and top, with three single-story units in between. Three single-level condos are about 1,420 square feet each. For $7.5 million, a buyer would get a 24th-floor space that encompasses much of what was the baronial office of Col. Robert McCormick, the owner and publisher of the Chicago Tribune from the 1920s through 1955. First move-ins for the building are planned for the end of 2020. (Read entire Crain's story here)

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Porchlight's sold-out concert celebrating its 25th anniversary season!

Porchlight Music Theatre’s 25th anniversary season began with the sold-out 14^th annual Chicago Sings concert: Chicago Sings 25 Years of Porchlight, on Aug. 5 at The Museum of Contemporary Art. The concert was directed by Christopher Pazdernik and artistic director Michael Weber with music direction by David Fiorello and a band featuring Kelsey Boltz, Cara Hartz, John McCreary, Greg Strauss, Celeste Park and Jake Saleh. The special event included

Co-chairs Rick and Deann Bayless and Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis.

performances from many of Porchlight’s 25 years of productions, special guests and the presentation of the Guy Adkins Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Music Theatre in Chicago to Gary Griffin. The launch to Porchlight’s silver anniversary celebration began with a cocktail reception for its nearly 300 guests

WTTW's Heidi Weiss, performer James Earl Jones II (with the national touring company of Come From Away), and Judith Share.

including VIPs Sondra Epstein, Marsha and Phil Dowd, Jared Kaplan and Maridee Quanbeck. Guests seated in the Edlis Neeson Theater were welcomed by Porchlight Music Theatre’s executive director Jeannie Lukow who then introduced Porchlight’s 25th Anniversary Gala co-chairs Rick and Deann Bayless and Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis. Deann Bayless said, “I have been looking forward to this night and the celebration of Porchlight and all it does to shine a light on music theatre.” La Pietra

Porchlight's board member Bill Gilmer with John Blackburn, Alan Spaeth and Eduardo Alvarado.

added, “And not only is this a night of great music and performances, it is a fundraiser where proceeds benefit the amazing Porchlight’s education and outreach programs.” Kurtis then introduced the night’s first performers: Bil Ingraham, Gerald Richardson, Charissa Armon, Carrie Beth Bramlett and Heather Townsend. The evening’s music program was a celebration with fifty

Donica Lynn performs "I am Changing" from DREAMGIRLS.

Chicago artists singing the more than two decades of Porchlight productions; the first number was “Better,” from A Class Act, produced by Porchlight in 2012. Artistic director Michael Weber then shared some of Porchlight’s history. “Jill Moore, our founder and first artistic director, whose recollections of the joy and camaraderie she experienced putting on shows with childhood pals under the glow of the lamp on her front porch after the streetlights came on inspired her to build a warm and welcoming home for music theatre right here in

Porchlight's board member Bill Gilmer with John Blackburn, Alan Spaeth and Eduardo Alvarado.

Chicago.” Weber continued, “Jill’s tenure as artistic director in those early days transitioned briefly to another company founder, Eric Bramlett, then, in 1998, the company hit its stride with the arrival of a new brash young artistic director who, along with a passionate music director, steered Porchlight over the next 13 years to many a success.” Weber introduced former Porchlight artistic

Porchlight's artistic director Michael Weber, the 2019 recipient of the Guy Adkins Award for Excellence, Gary Griffin and executive director Jeannie Lukow.

leaders Walter Stearns, the very first Guy Adkins Award recipient, and Eugene Dizon. Among many, many wonderful performances, the penultimate numbers of the night saluted long running shows from Porchlight’s recent history with James Earl Jones II reprising his number “Go Back Home” from 2017’s The Scottsboro Boys, “Breathe” from In The Heights, presented in 2016 and performed by cast members Lucy Godinez with Yando Lopez and Michelle Lauto and Angela Ingersoll’s performance of the classic Garland song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from End of the Rainbow, 2016.

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With Joaquin and Jennifer Brieva and Chuck.

I know a lot of people might think otherwise, but the Air & Water Show never gets old for me. I love seeing the practice runs before the weekend even more than the main event.

Chuck and Jamie Gabala.

When we had our house in Old Town, the planes flew so close, I could see the pilots' faces. Now the thrill for me is getting to visit with friends at the parties surrounding it. No more need to rubber-neck constantly. Now I have more time to socialize and we were

With Leslie Hindman at her Palazzo.

thrilled to do so at two awesome parties. Kristina and Mike McGrath and Leslie Hindman hosted two wonderful soirees, both filled with cute friends, fab food and awesome

Randy Montesinos (R) and friends.

views! Even J. Peterman (John O'Hurley), from Seinfeld fame, showed up at the McGrath's! Love this fabulous city and all it has to offer! Already looking forward to next year's show and parties! Hope you enjoyed the weekend too!

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Andrew Davis and Harrison Ford on The Fugitive set

Andrew Davis and Harrison Ford on the set of The Fugitive!

Happy 90th birthday to the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport)! To celebrate, it hosted a week long celebration of special screenings and events. When the theatre first opened Aug. 22, 1929, it showed the musical "Mother's Boy" starring Morton Downey (Robert Downey Jr.'s granddad) and on Friday, Aug. 23, it welcomes native son/director Andrew Davis, who will present his 1993 film "The Fugitive," which was shot in Chicago. This fabulous movie palace is one of our favorites with fantastic programming and decor that takes you back to the glory days of Hollywood.

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From the film SHINY SHRIMPS.

Reeling, the second oldest LGBTQ film festival in the world, kicks off on Thursday, September 19 (thru Sept. 29) at the aforementioned fabulous Music Box Theatre! The hilarious French comedy "The Shiny Shrimps" opens the fest and for the closing night feature, "Scream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm Street." The slate of films will showcase the diversity of the LGBTQ experience. For festival schedule, click here! and see opening night film trailer below!

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Mane in Heaven (one of my favorite and most adorable charities) hosted a fundraiser on August 5 at the Cubby Bear in Wrigleyville. This fundraiser supported the wonderful work that this organization does–bringing miniature therapy horses (!!!) to places like Shriner's Children's Hospital, Gilda's Clubs, a variety of nonprofits and into the schools with their MIH Making Inclusion

Look how tiny they are!

Happen Program that helps kids understand inclusion and to embrace each other's differences. I had the pleasure of interviewing the handlers of these amazing animals when I co-hosted a show on WCIU and I was blown away. They tip-toed into the studio wearing little rubber doll shoes. I was told this was so they wouldn't create too much noise in the hospitals and places where they visited. (I fainted)…Anyway, this is just the sweetest charity and I hope you'll be able to support it. And, if you know of any nonprofits that would welcome a visit, please let them know here!

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Dr. Sandy Goldberg's A Sterling Event will return on Saturday, October 5 to the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place! This black tie affair supports A Silver Lining Foundation and it's life-saving breast health testing through 5 interrelated programs. For tickets/more info, click here! Just love her!

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Michael Kutz, founder of Chicago International Film Festival, now launching KUTZA! Creative Consulting.

Need a second opinion, or a first look, on a film or design project? Well, the doctor is in! After 55 years of captaining/founding North America's longest-running competitive film festival, Michael Kutza has now launched his latest venture KUTZA! Creative Consulting and is ready to share his many talents! Michael's work with filmmakers and projects includes everything from insights on storyline and cinematic approach to marketing, design and promotion. An accomplished graphic designer, Kutza created the famous Chicago Film Festival logo with its iconic black and white silent film strip eyes and collaborated on numerous iconic festival posters with luminaries that included Art Paul, Saul Bass and Victor Skrebneski! Good luck with your new, exciting venture Michael! (skykutza@aol.com)

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Chicago Honey Bears - Rush Street Reunion

Former Chicago Honey Bears.

Partygoers of all ages and walks of life descended on the legendary Mother’s at 29 W. Division on Saturday, August 10th to celebrate the history and lineage of Rush Street, “The Street of Dreams,” at the annual Rush Street Reunion. This year's theme was "The Music of FACES" featured disco and dance music of the 1970s

Pat Marcy and Barb Bailey.

and early '80s presented by original FACES DJs Carey Weiman, "Broadway" Bill Abraham, Chip E. and internationally acclaimed DJ "Jungle" Jorge Suarez. The headliner of the evening was Chicago's original "Voice of Disco", Byron Stingily. The event began with a VIP presentation of the Carey Weiman documentary “The Disco King of Skokie”, that recently

Pam Stuart, Carey Weiman, Joe Martin (Tavern on Rush) and David Floodstrand.

aired on Chicago’s WTTW TV and has had special screenings in Chicago, LA, and D.C. with more to come. Book signings were offered by The Chicago Honey Bears of “Missing From The Sidelines”

Irene Mojica.

that featured inside stories from past members of the famous NFL Chicago Bears cheerleading team, and author Catherine O’Connell, who was on hand with her book “Last Night Out”, which takes place in areas around Rush Street and the Gold Coast. Organizers David Floodstrand and Carey Weiman said, “This was such a successful event, we are already planning next year's!”

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The Richard H. Driehaus Museum will host Gala 2019 on Thursday, September 12 at the Museum, 40 E. Erie Street. The black tie optional evening will include a presentation honoring the commitment of Bulley & Andrews to the restoration of the Nickerson Mansion, the home of the Museum. For tickets and more info, click here!

The 5th annual Chefs' Playground Reimagined fundraiser, a culinary journey to benefit the Academy for Global Citizenship will be held at Morgan MFG on Thursday, October 10. Click here for info/tickets!

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I had no words when I opened the Dance for Life program book at its annual benefit on Aug. 17 and saw this. Thank you Giordano Dance Chicago and choreographer Ray Leeper for this amazing tribute. To have a world premiere, "SOUL," dedicated and created in your honor is a thrill beyond measure. They opened the show with this number and brought the house down!

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Come From Away, a new musical about the true story of the small town that welcomed the world, will return to Broadway in Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre for a limited two-week engagement Aug. 25–Sept. 6. This return is in response to the audience's overwhelming love for the show! For tickets/more info, click here , and see trailer below!

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Join one of Chicago most loved media personalities, Lisa Fielding (WBBM News Radio 780-AM), as she hosts the 11th annual Teal Lights Celebration Cruise on Friday, September 13. The cruise will benefit the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Illinois Chapter and honor those who have lost their lives to ovarian cancer and the survivors, as well as raise awareness to the importance of early detection. For tickets/more info, click here!

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Mr. and Mrs. Tom Cavanaugh–Lauren Lein and Tom tie the knot!

Huge congrats are in order for one of Chicago's cutest couples–beloved fashion designer Lauren Lein and her Tom Cavanaugh, who were wed on Saturday, Aug. 17 at Fourth Presbyterian. Lauren wore a stunning gown that she had

Tom and Lauren sitting in a tree…..

designed with elegant, silk flowers popping up here and there and a flowing train. At the reception, Tom picked the song for the first dance, "Beautiful" by Gordon Lightfoot, and proceeded to sing it to her as they danced. Awwwww! And, instead of the usual guest book, Lauren displayed a hand-painted gown that she created for guests to sign, of course! The love these two share is contagious–they are true soulmates and helpmates and, for as long as I've known them, they have always been THE perfect pair! Love and congrats to these two and may this be the beginning of a lifetime of good health and happiness!

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Michael Perich, the philanthropic owner/creator of The Gnome Colony boutique in Glen Ellyn.

So proud of my friend Michael Perich, creator/owner of The Gnome Colony in Glen Ellyn. Not only is his delightful boutique at 485 N. Main St., filled with "love, whimsy and wishes" but he also gives back (big time) to the community, hosting in-store nonprofit events and donating a portion of his proceeds to a different charity each month. Listen to WBBM Newsradio's popular "Made in Chicago" segment here where he was recently featured! Congrats dear Michael!

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Beth and John Jostrand with Jane Lepauw.

Congrats to the Benjamin Marshall Society and chair Jane

Chaz Ebert and friend.

Lepauw on their recent, FABULOUS, sold-out All-White Event at the first building ever to be built on E. Lake Shore Drive (in 1912), 999 N. Lake Shore Drive! Gracious owners/hosts of the grand condo, Beth and John Jostrand, provided guests with inspiring spaces all to help fundraise for the first film on the iconic architect Benjamin H. Marshall. Guests on hand to offer toasts included Chaz Ebert and the Consul General of France, Monsieur Guillame LaCroix, bien sur!

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Sister Rosemary Connelly and young friend.

Much love and congrats to everybody's favorite Sister Rosemary Connelly who is celebrating her 50th anniversary as director of Misericordia and her 70th year in ministry as a Sister of Mercy! Her BIG celebration at the Hilton Chicago this Sunday is completely sold-out but you can still get tickets to the Mercy Ball on November 9 (also at the Hilton Chicago) Act now before these tickets are gone too! (Contact LoisG@Misericordia.com for tix/info!)

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will hosts its annual Men's Fashion Awards, this year at Louis Vuitton Michigan Avenue. For tickets, $85, and more info, click here!

If you haven't been attending the 2nd annual Chicago Tribune Food Bowl events, you've been missing out on a LOT of foodie fun! This 18 day food fest has featured 100s of events around town featuring a mix of dinners, panels, demos, tours, cruises, tastings and more that will all culminate with Night Market this weekend, August 24-26! This 3-day festival will feature food, drinks, pop-ups and more along the Riverwalk (at the Confluence) Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm! FREE!

Don't forget, this weekend is the fabulous indoor/outdoor "Back to Cool" RANDOLPH STREET MARKET! August 24/25, Sat/Sun from 10 am to 5 pm!

Well, that's the 411 on 312 this week! Hope you're a subscriber and remember, if you have any exciting news to share, please send it along!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as A Sterling Event, Benjamin Marshall Society, Bill Kurtis, Bixbee Imagination Station, Broadway in Chicago, Cadillac Theatre, Carey Weiman, Chefs' Playground Reimagined, Chicago Tribune Food Bowl, Come From Away, Dance for Life, David Floodstrand, Diner en Blanc, Donna La Pietra, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Driehaus Museum, Fox Ford Lincoln, Giordano Dance Chicago, Jane Lepauw, John O'Hurley, Kristina McGrath, Lauren Lein, Le Diner en Blanc, Lee Golub, Leslie Hindman, Lisa Fielding, Mane in Heaven, Marc Schulman, Maureen Schulman, Michael Kutza, Michael Perich, Miguel Cervantes, Mike McGrath, Music Box Theatre, MyEyeDr, National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, Night Market, Porchlight Music Theatre, Randolph Street Market, Reeling film fest, Richard Driehaus, Rick Bayless, Rush Street Reunion, Tanji Harper, Teal Lights Celebration, The Gnome Colony, The Happiness Club, Tom Cavanaugh, Tribune Tower Condos, Val Warner

June 25, 2019 · 11:39 am

THE SUMMER OF STARS IN THE HOLLYWOOD OF THE MIDWEST

Plus: Gene Siskel Film Center's Renaissance Awards; Service Club's Earlybirds & Bookworms; Bixbee Imagination Station; David Spade proves laughter is the best medicine; Family Focus Gala; Wildlife rules at Big Fish Ball; Gilda's Club Chicago Awards Dinner; Resilience's "Evening of Impact"; Quinton's Blueprint; FLAIR's "Visions of Elegance" honors Cheryl and Ron; Nika Clark's new gig is a slam dunk; Rubby Duckies on parade; Z Bar celebrates 1st birthday; EVERSIGHT'S Mystery Masquerade; Haute Dog Chicago 2019's star-studded runway; Losing Marsha; Police and firemen swing for the fences for charity; Exciting season finale for Collector's Call; Darling videos and so much MORE!

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Gene Siskel Film Center Renaissance Award recipient, filmmaker Jon Favreau.

The Gene Siskel Film Center is repeatedly turning Chicago into the Hollywood of the Midwest and did so again on Saturday, June 15, for "Marvel, Movies and More: Honoring Jon Favreau in Conversation with Robert Downey Jr." To

Robert Downey Jr. (Film Center advisory board member), co-chair Anita Liskey, Jon Favreau and co-chair Roopa Weber.

say it was a love fest is an understatement. It was more like being a fly on the wall as two dear friends and collaborators took a walk down memory lane. Downey conducted an hour-long Q & A with Favreau that was the centerpiece of the gala that was co-chaired by Roopa Weber and Anita Liskey at the Four Seasons Chicago. The fun, however, began on the Red

Film Center executive director Jean de St. Aubin and her husband Jim Mayhercy.

Carpet. Each media outlet was instructed to ask each star only two questions. WGN's Dean Richards was the first in line and, if he only asked two questions, they must've

Raffle winner with favreau and downey jr.

Lucky raffle winners got a personalized, fun photo with the stars!

been really, really long ones, however, both stars still had that charismatic sense of humor by the time they got to me. Kristan Lieb, my Tribune photog that night, videotaped the convo using my Iphone. Well, as soon as Downey saw Chuck's photo on the Iphone case, the interview went sideways. (See the merriment here!) The two mega stars are definitely each other's biggest fans. Downey has been directed by Favreau in many films and they have also worked together as actors so they had much to discuss when they finally mounted the stage during

Advisory board members Michelle Cucchiaro and Averill Leviton.

dinner in the ballroom. They both love Chicago and said, since they landed, it's been a "Taste of Chicago and we're bonding over food." Favreau discussed getting his start here in Chicago, even though he's originally from NY. He became eligible for his guild cards while acting at Second City and said, "Chicago remembers its own, it's so supportive." During my brief discussion with the stars, Favreau said this of their "Iron Man" collaboration, "We figured out what the movie would be based on you (nodding to Downey) being in it. My earliest memory was just you having complete confidence looking at me and me knowing that if I can work with this guy, I knew it could be a great movie. That was the beginning of both of our journeys." Jean de St. Aubin, GSFC executive director, welcomed guests and introduced Ellen Sandor, GSFC board chair, calling her the

Eda Davidman (advisory board member) and her husband Barry Missner.

"driving force behind the Film Center." Video tributes poured in from Favreau's friends Albert Brooks, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sam Holland and Scarlett Johansson. Brooks broke the crowd up during his clip when he said he had hoped to be asked to voice a character in Favreau's upcoming "Lion King" but

Advisory board chair Ellen Sandor and her husband Richard Sandor.

that "all the Jewish animals were already taken." Barbara Scharres, GSFC director of programming, introduced Jon as a "producer, director, writer and super hero-maker extraordinaire." The place was packed with 300 fans and supporters and you could hear a pin drop during the conversation. Downey was very animated, coming into the audience several times, especially to clarify a point with his darling, Schaumburg-born wife Susan. The couple are both on the Film Center's advisory board and have contributed greatly in securing talent like Favreau for Renaissance Award honors. Past honorees have included Nicole Kidman, George Lucas (who was interviewed by Favreau in 2009), Jamie Foxx, Reese Witherspoon, Morgan Freeman, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Ethan Hawke, Michael Mann and

It was a thrill and a privilege chatting with these two geniuses.

Downey himself in 2010. During the interview, Downey said to Favreau, "Your whole career, looking back on it now, has been about inclusion and diversity, underdog heroes and overcoming obstacles." Favreau said he had been inspired by Walt Disney who combined cutting edge technology with a great story. He said George

They had such fun together, it was a joy to watch!

Lucas told him, "Your main audience is kids coming of age. You're teaching them how to succeed in this journey of life without having to make the mistakes themselves." This is the message Lucas based his Star Wars franchise on too. At the end of the conversation, Downey asked Favreau to join the Film Center board to which he readily agreed. Sandor and Elissa Tenny, president of the School of the Art Institute Chicago) presented Favreau with the Renaissance Award. He said, "I feel very grateful that stuff that's come out of my imagination has become a part of your lives." Congrats to all and especially to the Film Center, that raised $380,000 to support programming and outreach. (Photos by MILA SAMOKHINA)

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David Spade, SNL alum/actor, lit up the crowd.

Nearly 600 supporters joined the GI Research Foundation (GIRF) and Saturday Night Live alum/actor David Spade for the 58th Laughter Is The Best Medicine Ball at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on June 1. The nonprofit supports physicians and scientists at the University of Chicago Medicine Digestive

Jennifer Brieva (R) and co-chair Bee Crain.

Diseases Center in their efforts to provide outstanding care, train future leaders and perform innovative clinical and laboratory research in order to treat, cure, and prevent digestive diseases. “This weekend’s Ball continues our mission of excellence and commitment to patients and to future scientific breakthroughs,” said Dr. David Rubin, GIRF’s chief scientific advisor. “By all measures, this was our most successful evening in the nearly 60-year history of GIRF. The energy and enthusiasm of our loyal

Former White Sox Ozzie Guillen (L) and Former Chicago Cubs Fergie Jenkins pose with David Spade following his 45 minute set — perfect for the evening's theme "Laughter is the Best Medicine."

patients, family, and friends help move this important research forward.” Former Loyola basketball player and current University of Chicago research technologist, Nick DiNardi, spoke about having Crohn’s Disease. He shared his decade-long story of debilitating pain, as well as his current symptom-relieving therapies. The paddle raise to fund a study to find the cause of

Samantha Cohen

Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis was extraordinarily successful thanks to the leadership of the event’s premier benefactors, Sy and Nancy Taxman. These well-known philanthropists raised their own paddle for $50,000 and also matched the first twenty gifts at $2,500. These two

Ben Pogofsky (middle) and Loren Evangelist (right) pose with David Spade.

magnanimous acts of generosity helped the Foundation raise nearly $300,000 in 20 minutes! NBC 5 Chicago’s LeeAnn Trotter emceed the evening with the Michael Lerich Orchestra providing the dancing music. An auction item included a meet-and-greet with Spade before or after his new show (airing in the fall on Comedy Central). Co-chaired by Beatrice Crain and Howard Grill, the event raised $1.3M to benefit physicians and scientists at the University of Chicago Digestive Diseases Center. Right now, 1 out of every 4 Americans is affected by digestive diseases, many of them life-threatening or life-altering.

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Nena Ivon interviews fashion icon Jeffrey Banks.

The Service Club of Chicago hosted their 2nd annual Earlybirds & Bookworms breakfast at RL Restaurant on June 13. The event celebrated designer Jeffrey Banks and debuted his latest book, Norell: Master of American Fashion.

Peter Martino with Marchesa's Kathryn Alvera.

Known as a popular fashion designer and author, Banks is a CFDA board member emeritus, an FIT senior board member who currently has two fashion lines on the Home Shopping Network and is the author of six books. He is best known for his own label designs but he has also designed for Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Merona Sport. The festivities began the night before with a private “Red”

Co-chairs Paula Borg and Margaret Wenzel with Jeffrey Banks.

party for VIP host committee members at a well-known Oak Street jeweler. Guests were treated to rosé, cocktails and delectable bites while mingling with Jeffrey. All received signed books and a fabulous gift bag. The next morning, RL closed their doors for a private breakfast of 60 guests who arrived for a mimosa reception followed by a lavish breakfast. Service Club president Tracey DiBuono

Peter Martino, Bonnie Rickard, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou and Morgan Shaner.

welcomed attendees and introduced event co-chairs Paula Borg and Margaret Wenzel, who thanked the host committee, the RL team including GM Anna Finnegan and all the members and friends whose support was instrumental in the success of the day. Then the main event began with Banks being

Michelle Janayea (R) and cute friend.

interviewed by local fashion icon, Nena Ivon. Nena and Jeffrey engaged the audience with their scintillating tales of Jeffrey’s personal and professional experiences in the fashion industry. Of special note, Nena and Jeffrey focused on legendary American couturier Norman Norell. A lively Q & A followed. At the conclusion, Jeffrey signed copies of his book, as well as the popular, Preppy: Cultivating Ivy Style, both of which sold out completely. The event raised over $15,000.00 to support The Service Club and its mission to aid those in need. (Photos by JOHN REILLY PHOTOGRAPHY)

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Just buzzin' around at the Bixbee Imagination Station!

Run, don't walk to the Bixbee Imagination Station at 915 W. North Avenue! This experiential pop-up is for the young and young at heart and features a fantasy world like none other. Think unicorns, enchanted

Chuck, just a kid at heart, at the Bixbee Imagination Station!

forests, a ginormous silver octopus, and more all set in an interactive, immersive, instagrammable wonderland! I didn't want to leave! Brought to life by Kehoe Designs and Black Oak Technical Productions, the pop-up is presented by

For every backpack purchase, Bixbee donates a school bag and supplies to a kid in need.

Bixbee, a San Francisco-based company that makes high quality backpacks and accessories for kids 3-10 years of age. For every backpack purchased, Bixbee donates a school bag with supplies to a kid in need (One Here.One There) So, experience the fun AND support this wonderful cause, now through mid-September! Don't miss it! (For tickets, with a portion of the proceeds funding access to education for children, from gifting backpacks and school supplies to education funds, click here!) (Sneak peek HERE!)

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John Rogers Jr. and Valerie Jarrett.

Family Focus hosted it 43rd Anniversary Gala with a sellout crowd of 400 guests on May 28. The evening at the Four Seasons Hotel honored U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Dennis Abboud, ReaderLink Distribution Services president/CEO, and was emceed by Rob Johnson. The event brought together national and state leaders to celebrate the work of Family Focus, a nonprofit that provides early childhood development

Honorees Dennis Abboud and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin.

services to low-income families. Last year, Family Focus reached 17,000 community members through seven centers located across the state. Governor Pritzker presented the Bernice Weissbourd Award for Family Support to Durbin.(The award is named for Bernice Weissbourd, founder of Family Focus and a nationally recognized leader in the family support movement.) The Senator accepted

Illinois Comptroller Susanna Mendoza and David Szoztak

the award, saying, “Inherently we know that if we are going to have the kind of country we want and need in this great nation, we need the families that can lead these children into better lives.” Valerie Jarrett, former senior advisor to President Obama, presented the Outstanding Corporate Partner Award to Abboud. Valerie said, “ReaderLink has donated almost $8 million in books to disadvantaged families, including thousands of Spanish language books for Family Focus center participants, addressing a critical gap and instilling the

Dr. Seun Adigun, Valerie Jarrett and Rob Johnson.

love of reading to a new generation.” Family Focus president/CEO Merri Ex was surprised with a special Bernice Weissbourd Award for Family Support that was presented to her for her leadership and contributions to support families in Chicago. Bernice Weissbourd shared, “The thing that brings all of us together—Dick Durbin, JB Pritzker, Valerie Jarrett and Dennis Abboud—is

Family focus--stephen f. majsak U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Governor JB Pritzker

Senator Durbin with Governor Pritzker.

an unstoppable belief in our shared ability to nurture children, from birth, in and with their communities.” Dr. Seun Adigun, an Olympic champion, was the keynote speaker. In 2018, Dr. Adigun gained notoriety by forming, not only the first African bobsled team, but also by being part of the first Nigerian team to ever compete in the Winter Olympics. Dr. Adigun grew up in Evanston and attended programs at Family Focus Evanston. During a Black History Month visit in February Dr. Adigun said, “Honestly, every single day of being a product of Family Focus has motivated me to be the woman I am today.” The event raised $450,0000 to fund Family Focus programs and services.

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MWRD Commissioners Debra Shore, Josina Morita, and MWRD president Kari K. Steele

Friends of the Chicago River’s annual Big Fish Ball was a big hit on June 11, raising nearly $300,000 with over 540 guests at the Westin Chicago River North. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, President Kari K. Steele and Chicago's Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Affairs, Manny Perez, were among

Friends of the Chicago River's Tributary Committee led by Louise Barrett.

the speakers. Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel was awarded the Chicago River Blue Ribbon prize for his leadership and enthusiasm for projects such as the Chicago Riverwalk, the Wild Mile plan, the 312 River Run, the Chicago River Boathouses, the more ecologically-based Chicago River Design Guidelines and

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has a meet-and-greet with Mr. Possum.

for creating the River Ecology and Governance Task Force. “I want to thank Friends of the Chicago River, not for this award, but for what you’ve done for over 40 years, being a voice for the city of Chicago, rediscovering one of the most natural resources we have,” said Emanuel in a pre-recorded message. Presented by McDermott Will & Emery, the ball featured live wildlife demonstrations from Big Wolf Run Ranch, Wings and Talons, JG’s Reptile Show and the Flying Foxes Conservation Fund. The Big Fish Ball was established in 2006 to benefit Friends’ efforts to improve and protect the Chicago River system. (Photos by IAN VECCHIOTTI)

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ROOH Chicago, 736 W. Randolph!

ROOH Chicago made its highly anticipated debut on “Restaurant

ROOH Chicago ribbon cutting.

Row,” (736 W. Randolph) with a Grand Opening Party on May 22. The event featured a sampling of the restaurant’s new-age Indian cuisine and innovative cocktail programming. Complete with an eclectic, modern design, ROOH, meaning soul or spirit, is bringing the spirit of India to the Windy City and providing guests and foodies with a never-before-seen dining experience masterminded by executive chef Sujan Sarkar. Split into three floors, ROOH Chicago aims to depict a distinct sense of style and experience at every level with aged color washed walls, rich fabrics, ornate tiles, as well as textural panels and imported wall coverings from prominent Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi . (312.267.2323)

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Members of Malnati family–Marc Rick and Jean Malnati-Miller accepted award on behalf of Lou Malnati's Cancer Research Fund.

Gilda's Club Chicago (GCC), a free support community for men, women, teens and children impacted by cancer, celebrated its annual awards dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel on June 12. The event was hosted by Pat Tomasulo (of WGN-TV) and honored Walgreens and Lou Malnati’s Cancer Research Fund. During the evening Tim Mohan, current board chair, also honored David Selby, former board chair, with special recognition. GCC member Bill Evanoff

Board chair Tim Mohan presents Walgreen's award to Rina Shah

introduced Jean Malnati-Miller, Marc Malnati and Rick Malnati who accepted the award on behalf of their Research Fund. Rina Shah accepted the award on behalf of her company, Walgreen's. GCC member Stephanie Guerrero shared her personal experience of how the Club has positively impacted her life. A live auction included two badges

The loving staff at Gilda's Club Chicago.

to the 2020 Masters Golf Tournament (that sold for $15,000); Four three-day passes to the 2019 Chicago Blackhawks Convention; A private collection of 21 wines in honor of GCC's 21st anniversary and four Gold Box tickets to a Chicago White Sox game. An after-party included live music, cocktails and Lou Malnati's pizza, of course! GCC's mission is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community. Its innovative program includes more than 300 free activities each month for members.

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#MuteRKelly co-founder Oronike Odeleye, author of Soulless and Co-Host of Sound Opinions Jim DeRogatis. #MuteRKelly co-founder Kenyette Tisha Barnes, co-chairs & Resilience board members Carol Stone and McKaye Whiteside.

More than 300 donors, service partners and friends attended the 16th annual, "Evening of Impact" presented by Resilience on May 30 at Morgan Manufacturing. Resilience presented Oronike Odeleye and Kenyette Tisha Barnes,

Co-chair/Resilience board member Carol Stone w/ guest auctioneer Jenniffer Weigel.

co-founders of the #MuteRKelly campaign, with the Dr. Natalie A. Stephens Visionary Award, named after the not-for-profit’s founder, to recognize their work of "farsighted leaders who have made a powerful and lasting impact on the fight to end sexual violence." Jim

Resilience executive director Erin Walton with Illinois Comptroller Susanna Mendoza.

DeRogatis, author of Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly, and co-host of Sound Opinions broadcast on WBEZ and nationwide, introduced the honorees and spoke about his experience covering the R. Kelly case for the last 19 years. Co-chaired by Carol Stone and McKaye Whiteside, the event raised more than $170,000 to advance the mission of Resilience, the

Resilience board member Anne Biere, former RVA client and author Kelley Kitley and Resilience board president Beth Kallmyer.

largest comprehensive rape crisis center in metro Chicago. Proceeds from the benefit will help to fund prevention and education outreach designed to stop sexual violence before it starts, supporting a program that currently reaches nearly 18,000 Chicago Public School students. Resilience also trains and provides more than 230 volunteers who serve as advocates for more than 2,000 people annually who identify as sexual assault survivors including 680 people who are treated in the emergency rooms of 17 hospitals in the Chicago metro area. Resilience also provides crisis intervention, medical and legal advocacy and trauma therapy services to all survivors and their loved ones. (Photos by MARC MONAGHAN)

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Quinton de' Alexander

Quinton de Alexander, fashion icon, humanitarian and designer, was honored at the DuSable Museum in an exhibit titled, "Blueprint," which was inspired by the blueprint of his life. Born in New Orleans, he was deeply influenced by the Mardi Gra festivals which no doubt inspired, at least in part, his spectacular "Drama Dresses. "Designed under the label Chez de' Alexander, the gowns make every woman who wears one feel empowered. Quinton's lifelong mission has always been about

Quinton and his ladies wearing his designs.

empowerment–empowering men and women who are less fortunate and children who need a leg up. I was proud to interview him on the opening night of this exhibit where many of his "ladies" were in attendance wearing his glam gowns. We touched on his many accomplishments– chairman/CEO of Creativity United, founder of the "We Dream in Color Foundation,", self-taught fashion designer, minister and many others. His foundation supports the homeless and at-risk youth as well as men going through transitional assistance programs. His Humanitarian Awards, which will be held this year on Saturday, July 13, will be emceed by Suzanne LeMignot and feature a fashion show and awards program. When I asked him what's next, he said the creation of a TV show. I can't wait to see! (For Hermene Hartman's (N'Digo) great interview with Quinton, click here).

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Join the Chicago Lighthouse for its "Visions of Elegance" FLAIR fashion show on Friday, September 13 at the Drake Hotel. The afternoon will begin with a reception at 11 am before the fashion show, luncheon and award presentation to the much deserving honorees Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz. The event will be co-chaired by Sherrill Bodine and Sheree Schimmer Valukas. The Chicago Lighthouse is a world-renowned social service organization serving the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities. The nonprofit provides vision rehabilitation services, education, employment opportunities and assistive technology for people of all ages. Join me to celebrate Cheryl and Ron and support this wonderful nonprofit! (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Nika Clark-New program director for Free Spirit Media's HoopsHIGH!

Congrats to WCIU's media star/and friend Nika Clark! She is now the proud program coordinator for Free Spirit Media's HoopsHIGH, a program in partnership with After School Matters that provides teens and young adults in communities of color on Chicago's West and South sides with a comprehensive foundation in media literacy and hands-on media production. The organization will host a Dunk Contest on Thursday, July 25 at the North Lawndale/ Collins Academy at 1313 S. Sacramento Ave. on the school's basketball courts. Bring a 'brella! Since 2001, Free Spirit Media has empowered more than 6,500 youth. They are so lucky to have YOU Nika Pika!

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The Chicago Fire Department and the Chicago Police Department will swing for the fences during the 20th annual charity baseball game to benefit the CFD Gold Badge Society and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation which provide aid to families who have endured the loss of a loved one serving in the line of duty. (For tickets, $5, visit either website, here's one: http://bit.ly/2LctZUM) Tickets will also be available for purchase at tables near the gate for $10. All proceeds directly benefit the organization from which they are purchased. Let's play BALLLL!!!!

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Collector's Call with book expert Thomas Joyce, host Lisa Whelchel and Leslie Hindman.

Thanks to the brand new Me-TV show, Collector's Call, for featuring our rare book collection on its season finale on June 23! I had the best time filming with long time friends Leslie Hindman and book expert Thomas Joyce. Lisa Whelchel, from the Facts of Life, is the charming host for this new show about unique collections. I'm happy to learn that they have been picked up for a second season! Kudos to all and thanks again for this fun opportunity! (To see the segment, click here!)

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Chicago Ducky Derby coming August 8 to benefit Special Olympics!

Over 60,000 rubber ducks will drop off the Wabash Bridge into the Chicago River at 1 pm, August 8. The 14th annual Chicago Ducky Derby will benefit Special Olympics and enthrall people of all ages who watch the ducks "race" to the finish line. Ducks are available for adoption for $5 online here and in person on race day

Guests pose with Derby mascot Splash.

beginning at 7 am at 400 N. Michigan Ave. The Family Festival begins at 10 am in Pioneer Plaza with entertainment, prizes, face painting and the Ducky Derby mascot Splash. The festival will have live entertainment performed by 7th Heaven. Top viewing locations for the ducky drop include AMA Plaza, State Street Bridge or the Vietnam Memorial Park and Riverwalk. The Hemispheres, a soul and R & B band will entertain the crowd from the AMA Plaza at the time of the drop.

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The Peninsula Chicago's rooftop oasis, the oh-so-chic Z Bar, celebrated its one year anniversary on June 23. The elegant space was decorated head to toe for the festivities! Congrats with love Z Bar! You are definitely a jewel in Chicago's crown!

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The 4th annual Haute Dog Chicago is shaping up to be a blockbuster event with a roster of runway stars that you won't want to miss! The evening will benefit Canine Companions for Independence, a national nonprofit that provides assistance dogs for those in need, FREE of charge! Don't forget to mark your calendars now for Thursday, September 19 from 6:30–9:30 pm at the Peninsula Chicago. I'm honored to return, along with #RooneyRules, as emcee! For tickets/more info, click here! (Special thanks to CS Magazine for being our media sponsor!)

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Marsha Brenner

I was so sad to learn of the passing of Marsha Brenner, the long-time executive director of the Apparel Industry Board. We had lunch together the week before with her "right arm," Ambar Campos. She was so enthusiastic about upcoming plans that it was very hard to believe that she passed away so soon after. During lunch, she talked about how lucky she was to have found Ambar to help her out as she advocated for Chicago designers. Marsha was always a tough little cookie who spoke her mind. I won't lie when I say we had our run-ins but I always admired her tenacity and love for Chicago fashion. She will be missed by all who knew her and especially by the designers whose lives she touched. It was a private service with family requesting donations be made to the COPD Foundation.

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Mark your calendar's now for this year's Eversight Gift of Sight Celebration! We have turned it upside down to give you a unique, new experience starting with a new theme, Mystery Masquerade, and new date, Thursday, October 24, at the Peninsula! The Woman of Vision this year will be Sherry Lea Holson and the Gift of Sight Honoree will be Dr. David Lubeck. Formerly known as the Illinois Eyebank, this nonprofit provides the gift of sight for those in need that includes transplantation and research. For tickets, more info, click HERE! (Special thanks to Chicago Magazine for being our media sponsor!)

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There's so much going on around town, and beyond, and I'm thrilled to be able to bring it to you! Thanks for checking in and remember, if you have exciting news YOU would like to share, please send it to me at candace@candidcandace.com! And, if not a subscriber, join me here!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

Tagged as After School Matters, Big Fish Ball, Bixbee, Bixbee Imagination Station, Black Oak Productions, Candace Jordan, Canine Companions for Independence, CFD Gold Badge Society, Cheryl Coleman, Chicago Ducky Derby, Chicago Fire Department, Chicago Lighthouse, Chicago Police Department, Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, Collector's Call, Cook County Treasurer, David Spade, Diane Bodkins, Dr. David Lubeck, Eversight Illinois, Family Focus, FLAIR Fashion Show, Fox Ford Motors, Free Spirit Media's HoopsHIGH, Friends of the Chicago River, Gene Siskel Film Center, GI Research Foundation, Gilda's Club Chicago, Haute Dog Chicago, Jeffrey Banks, Jon Favreau, Kehoe Designs, Leslie Hindman, Lisa Whelchel, Marsha Brenner, Me-TV, MyEyeDr, Mystery Masquerade, Nena Ivon, Nika Clark, Peninsula Chicago, Quinton de' Alexander, Randolph Street Market, Resilience, Robert Downey Jr., Ron Katz, ROOH Chicago, Service Club of Chicago, Sherry Lea Holson, Special Olympics, York Furrier, Z Bar

June 13, 2019 · 10:04 am

BEST OF CHICAGO FASHION ON DISPLAY AT DRIEHAUS AWARDS

Plus: Goodman Theatre's "Starstruck" Gala; Virgil Abloh hits Chi; NY State of Mind; Getaway2Give, a unique idea for nonprofits; OUT of Office celebrates a sellout; Nikki Haley and our Dominic honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center; Project Style Chips in for Charity; NYC's celeb-filled Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic; Design Museum of Chicago sets the stage; Sunda celebrates 10; A Blueprint for Quinton; Nan has her day; Everyone's favorite public servant; ULBGC's excellent Wine Dinner; Children's Place Assn.'s "Enchantment Under the Sea"; National Hellenic Museum gala; Service Club's "Day on the Terrace" (do you have your tickets?); Randolph Street Market's "Red, White & Cool"; AIBI Revs UP!; BEST street festivals; Darling videos and SO much more!

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Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence runway show.

Driehaus Design Initiative presented creativity without limits at The Driehaus Awards for Fashion

Richard Driehaus with winning designers Edna St. Louis, Molly Quinn and Carlos Osuna.

Excellence on April 26. Themed Infinite Possibilities, the cocktail party and runway show competition highlighted the talents and innovative collections of 24

Wendy Krimins (GM Neiman Marcus Mich Ave) with Sue Wyderka.

top emerging fashion design students in Chicago. The participating fashion and design schools were Columbia College Chicago, Dominican University, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This 18th annual event was hosted at Chicago Vintage Motor Carriage, a unique

Judges Sylwia Wilczynska, Timothy Long and Chloe Mendel.

venue that provided more than 300 guests exclusive viewing access to a private collection of classic American cars. Media personalities Linda Yu and Sylvia Perez returned as emcees of the

Emcees Linda Yu and Sylvia Perez with Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions).

elegant fundraiser which raised more than $140,000 and included a pre-party with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, live entertainment and a live auction. The dynamic fashion show celebrated the incredible talent of local fashion design students and featured ready-to-wear, evening wear, outerwear, sportswear, bridal and wearable art collections. A

Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steven Stryker.

judging panel of industry insiders (Timothy Long, Director, Senior Specialist of Couture & Luxury Accessories, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers; Chloé Mendel, Creative Director/Co-Founder, Maison Atia and Sylwia Wilcynska, Owner/Fashion Designer,

Design by Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award winner Edna St. Louis.

Sylwia Designs) scored the collections by taking a detailed look at the designs including intricate sewing techniques, fabric selection and overall excellence in garment construction. The first place winner, Molly Quinn from Columbia College, took home $7,500 and a prize package including the production of a look-book, an apparel display at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, and mentoring and media opportunities. Her

Angelina Lee, Yoshi Fredisdorf, Justin Wong and Chloe Park.

winning collection, An Abnormal Condition of Sleep, featured digitally printed textiles, 3D printing, foil prints and handmade detailing. Additional cash honorariums were awarded to second place winner Edna St. Louis ($5,000), the School of the Art Institute of Chicago; third place

Tracey Tarantino receives an Achievement Award for 15 years as runway producer. YEAH!

winner Carlos Osuna ($2,500), Columbia College Chicago. Honorable mentions and $1,000 were awarded to Claire Groppe and Shaylin Thurston, Dominican University; Victor Delgado, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago; JunHoPark and Abigail Shute, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. The 2018 first place

Designs by first place winner Molly Quinn.

winner, Lindsay Holeso, presented her winning collection Equilibrium as part of the alumni runway show to cap off the evening. Wendy Krimins, General Manager, Neiman

Design by Heather Hans.

Marcus Michigan Avenue, also selected Edna St. Louis to receive the Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award, which includes a window display at the Michigan Avenue store, plus retail business opportunities. Participating students will also be invited

Melissa Gamble and Stacie Hartman.

to join Driehaus Design Initiative and the Chicago History Museum for the Runway to Showroom^®: Driehaus Business of Fashion Symposium. The symposium consists of industry-led panels and open dialogue, with a focus on business, to help designers achieve success. It also includes a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum's costume collection and a curated guided tour of Silver Screen to Mainstream. (Photos by Allen Bourgeois and Kasia Karosz).

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Amazing views from our Getaway2Give apt.

Chuck, Rooney and I are always up for any adventure so we were happy to recently learn of a program called Getaway2Give. And,

Rooftop luxury.

after we did a little research, we decided to experience it for ourselves on a recent trip to NYC. The program helps charities raise money using live auction packages of memorable vacation experiences. They include beach, city, mountain and international accommodations–everything from an estate on Lake Como to a private island in Belize and so much more! There's a reasonable reserve for the packages but

Four Seasons NYC Ty Warner Suite.

Dinner at Vaucluse with friends David Brandt and David Granados.

there's no obligation if it doesn't sell. (You can see how it works here.) We chose the NYC package and it was everything they had promised and more–friendly greeters, exquisite accommodations in a beautiful apartment and a follow-up to make sure you were satisfied. I love this concept and am very familiar with how hard it is to find/offer unique live auction prizes for

At Polo Bar restaurant with Valentino and his partner Giancarlo Giammetti in background.

a charity gala. (G2G also has a luxury vacation club that links travelers with unique travel spots.

King Kong on Broadway was astounding.

Read about it here in the LA Times). Adam Capes, Getaway2Give president/chief idea officer, founded the company in 2012 and "hopes to continue to help more charities and schools increase their fundraising capabilities." On our first night, we saw King Kong at the Broadway Theatre. I have no words to describe how fabulous and awe-inspiring it was. The mechanical gorilla has to be the 8th wonder of the world! The music was good but it was truly all about the ape. My mouth stayed open for the entire 2 hours and 15 minutes. (A must-see if you can). Afterwards, we had dinner at Raoul's, a

Emilio's Ballato rest. in Nolita.

Jeremy Scott’s "TV dinner dress at Met CAMP exhibit.

classic French bistro at 180 Prince Street. The moody ambiance, low lighting and great food made for a perfect night. The following day, we were so excited to meet up with friends Kim Renk Dryer (co-owner Sequin) and her

Fun with friends Greg and Kim Renk Dryer and Sharon Bush at Polo Bar.

hubby Greg Dryer and Sharon Bush (ex-wife of Neil Bush and mother to the beautiful Lauren Lauren, who is married to Ralph's son). We met up for dinner at the

Moschino gown inspired by a Budweiser beer label at Met CAMP exhibit.

Polo Bar, always a great spot, and on this night, it was packed with chic peeps. One of the things I love is that you can't even go in for a drink at the bar unless you have dinner reservations. It makes for a very civilized dining experience without having to elbow your way through a crowd. As we were eating and talking, I noticed Valentino being seated directly

Rooney Rules enjoying breakfast at Bubby's.

behind us with his longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti! The iconic designer is much shorter/tinier than I realized but certainly no less formidable. (And, of course, we had to take a sneaky photo for posterity! Lol!). The next day, we couldn't wait to see the CAMP exhibit at the Met. It did not disappoint. There are more than 250 objects dating from the 17th century to the present. The exhibit is inspired

Creel & Gow, one of our faves, at 131 E. 70th.

by Susan Sontag's 1964 essay "Notes on Camp" that examines how the elements of "irony, humor, parody, artifice, theatricality and exaggeration" are expressed in fashion. Bjork's infamous swan dress by Balenciaga is on display as is the Mugler oyster shell gown worn by Cardi B to

Raoul's French bistro at 180 Prince.

the Grammys. Also on exhibit are Viktor & Rolf's meme-able couture gowns that read "Less is More" and "Sorry I'm Late I Didn't Want to Come"; a pair of Celine mink heels; a Warhol Campbell's tomato soup print mini-dress; a Balenciaga pink dress covered in 3 million feathers; a flamingo headpiece by the House of Schiaparelli; a Burberry rainbow Pride cape; a Marc Jacobs cape printed with opera star Maria Callas’

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"CAMP: Notes on Fashion" exhibit through September 8 at the Met.

face; a Moschino gown inspired by a Budweiser beer label; sexy sailor suits by Jean Paul Gaultier; a sparkly showgirl costume and headdress that Bob Mackie designed for Cher; an over-the-top lux tux for Liberace and so much more. One of my favorites

One of several terraces in the Ty Warner Suite at Four Seasons NYC.

was Jeremy Scott’s "TV dinner dress," made for Moschino’s fall 2019 line. The kimono-type garment features a vegetable medley of peas, carrots, and corn on one side and mashed potatoes with a pat of butter on the other. OMG. You had to see it to believe it! From there, it was on to the Temple of Fashion, Bergdorf's. And the day wouldn't have been complete without lunch at BG. The next day we were so

Elegant party space at Four Seasons NYC.

excited to meet up with old Chicago friend David Brandt (former director of catering for the Palmer House Hilton) and his partner David Granados. David B., who is now Director of Catering and Special Events at the fabulous Four Seasons NYC, gave us a tour of one of the most exquisite suites we've ever seen, their Ty Warner Suite that was designed by I.M. Pei. The suite has 360 degree views, a $60,000 bed and

A Warhol Campbell's tomato soup print minidress at CAMP Met exhibit.

multiple balconies–it also comes with a Rolls and driver whose on call 24/7. The suite costs a cool $50,000 per night and is never discounted. From this heady experience, we moved to the elegant Four Seasons bar where the live entertainment included a sweet birthday song for moi. Dinner was at Vaucluse, an upscale brasserie at 100 E. 63rd St. Happy to see the Double Ds so happy and doing so

Elegant Bob Mackie design for Cher at the CAMP Met exhibit.

well. David G. is on a path to stardom having a role in the recent Avengers movie, appearing in the FX series POSE and 3 appearances on SNL! Whoa! On our last night, we had dinner at Emilio's Ballato, an old school Italian restaurant in Nolita (55 E. Houston) with a

Two masterpieces and one is all mine.

history of celebrity visitors that includes Rihanna, the late Andy Warhol, Jerry Seinfeld and more. (Rumor has it, this was Judy Tullman's favorite spot when she lived in NY too!). It reminded me a lot of our own La Scarola, with photos on the walls and top notch food and service. Rooney Rules enjoyed every minute of it too, shopping on Madison, the Village and SoHo with a fabulous breakfast at Bubby's (73 Gansevoort St. and 120 Hudson). I could slap myself for forgetting to bunny hop to the NYC Playboy Club–I don't know what I was thinking!? Next time…..grrrrrr.

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Gala co-chairs Teri and Doug Brown and Carole Wood and Carl Jenkins.

More than 450 guests attended Goodman Theatre’s "Starstruck" Spring Gala on May 18, headlined by Broadway star and Tony–Award nominee Megan Hilty. The black-tie event, presented by the Women's Board, was held at the Fairmont Chicago and raised more than $800,000 to support the theater’s education and

Broadway star Megan Hilty with participants of Goodman Theatre's Education & Engagement programs.

community engagement programs. The evening began in the International Ballroom where guests enjoyed appetizers and cocktails before proceeding to the Imperial Ballroom for dinner and

Roche Schulfer, Goodman's executive director, Alexandre Fox and David Fox Jr., board of trustees chair

entertainment amid an assortment of dramatic purple floral centerpieces and dazzling chandeliers. Hilty kicked off the evening with her impressive vocal range and charm singing “They Just Keep Moving the Line” from her a famed portrayal of seasoned triple-threat

Maria and Albert Goodman.

Ivy Lynn in NBC’s musical drama SMASH. She nodded to her most notable Broadway roles with “Suddenly Seymour,” from the concert revival of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’s Little

Co-chairs Carl Jenkins and Carole Wood with Goodman's artistic director Robert Falls and Kat Falls.

Shop of Horrors; “Popular” from her role as Glinda in Wicked opposite Idina Menzel—marking her Broadway debut; “Backwoods Barbie” from 9 to 5 The Musical; followed by an ode to Alan Jay Lerner/Frederick Loewe with “I Could’ve Danced All Night” and a medley of tunes from Annie Get Your Gun, including “There No Business Like Show Business.” She revisited her famed role in SMASH with “That’s Life” and “Second Hand White Baby Grand” as well as her role in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes with “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Hilty concluded her performance

Siddharth (Bobby) Mehta and WB member Swati Mehta.

with a show-stopping encore mash-up of “Don’t Forget Me/Let Me

Revan Lowe-Watkins and Goodman Scenemakers Board treasurer Dujon Smith.

Be Your Star” from SMASH. Gala guests enjoyed an elegant three-course dinner followed by dancing to the sounds of The Gentleman of Leisure. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for one prize that included a Tiffany & Co. Prism design pendant in platinum, set with over eight carats of Tiffany diamonds hung from a diamond-studded chain valued at $45,000; and a matching Prism design ring in platinum with over four carats of Tiffany diamonds valued at $25,000. The gala was co-chaired by Teri and Doug Brown and Carole Wood and Carl Jenkins. Since its inception in 1978, the Goodman Theatre Women’s Board—currently under the leadership of president Denise Stefan Ginascol—has raised more than $46 million in support of 39 Goodman productions and an array of educational programs through special events and projects. (John Reilly Photography)

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Chuck Hagopian (IL Comptroller’s Chief of Staff) Merri Dee and yours truly wearing his PRIDE Converse sneakers

Chuck Hagopian (IL Comptroller’s Chief of Staff) Merri Dee and OUT of Office founder Andrew Hayes wearing his PRIDE Converse sneakers!

The weather forecast called for rain but, 30 minutes before the sold-out event, the clouds parted and the sun came out, of course, for the 18th annual "OUT of the Office," an event that brought together nearly 450 LGBTQ+ professionals, allies, friends and family. Held on the open rooftop lounge of I|O Godfrey, the event

Michael Caputo, Tony Abruscato and Greg Hyder.

featured a raffle with 10 items on the block – overnight stays at the Godfrey Hotel, London House; dinners at Fogo de Chao; a Ruth Bader Ginsberg “Resist” basket (that included a pose-able RGB “action” figure and prayer candle); a Golden Girls basket (complete with collectible Golden Girls Pez dispensers and an Eli’s Cheesecake) and a framed Make America Gay Again print. In

Keli Knight has longer hair and her partner Tiffany Chemelle has the shorter hair.

Keli Knight and Tiffany Chemelle.

attendance were representatives of event beneficiaries: Imani Rupert Gordon (of Affinity-Chicago), Lori Cannon (of Heartland Health) and Jerome Holsten (of LGBT Chamber of Commerce). They spoke to the crowd sharing news about

Sogna Martin-Hicks Mike Goodridge Tonya Hicks-Martin

Sogna Martin-Hicks, Mike Goodridge and Tonya Hicks-Martin.

their respective non- profits and thanked everyone for their support. Andrew Hayes, dynamic event founder, spoke about the birth of the event in 2001. He said, "The event came to life originally, because 18 years ago, it was very difficult for LGBTQ+ professionals to network for business outside of gay bars. We just weren’t able to

Marshall Beck, Sam Powell and Dan Spillane.

comfortably gather in non-gay settings. I got a downtown restaurant (that is no longer around) to agree to allow us to gather in the banquet room for the first OUT of the Office and, since then, we’ve gathered in downtown and River North area restaurants, hotels,

Dan Diaz and Lindsay Brown.

and venues." A couple of fun party facts–the party averages 350 people every year, except in 2015 when they had 653 people! Don Lemon (CNN) was the emcee for the

Marshall Beck, Sam Powell Dan Spillane.

2006 event benefiting Gay Games Chicago. During the event, a video wall included commemorative artwork acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots #WherePrideBegan. Staff and principals from event sponsors Dreamtown Realty, Professional Moving Specialists, Cirque du Soleil VOLTA, Chicago Reader, Windy City Times and PaternoGroup networked and circulated among the crowd. Love and congrats Andrew, Chicago is very lucky to have YOU!

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Nikki Haley being interviewed by Mary Hart.

Close to 400 guests attended the Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) Midwest Region’s 2019 Spirit of Courage Benefit dinner at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago recently. The Center bestowed its highest honor, the Humanitarian Laureate Award, on Nikki Haley, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2017 – 2019), for her courage and compassion in protecting global human rights and the state of Israel. Ms. Haley and Mary Hart, SWC Trustee and TV personality, had an inspiring conversation on Haley’s upbringing in an Indian immigrant family and the struggle of being an “other” in American society. Haley shared how this experience made her stronger and to take true pride in being an American. Ms. Haley also discussed the current negative political atmosphere and articulated that while it’s bad, we should

Medal of Valor Awardees Daniel Pincus, Justin Hefter, Megan Hallahan and Mohammed Al Samawi pictured with Senator Mark Kirk.

recognize that we all have more in common than different. “There is true evil in the world and we must come together to fight for human rights around the world,” Haley told guests. “Nikki Haley personifies the legacy of Simon Wiesenthal, who reminded the world that freedom is not a gift from heaven, rather, it is something that we must fight for each and every day,” said Rabbi Marvin Hier, SWC Founder and Dean. The late Dominic DiFrisco, a well-known and much loved leader of Chicago's Italian-American community, was posthumously awarded the Community Leadership Award. DiFrisco

Robert Hartman SWC Trustee Stuart Isen SWC Trustee Dawn Arnall SWC Trustees and chair MOTJ Capital Campaign Nikki Haley Rabbi Hier and SWC Trustees Mary Hart and Burt Sugarman

Robert Hartman (SWC Trustee), Stuart Isen (SWC Trustee), Dawn Arnall (SWC Trustee and chair MOTJ Capital Campaign) Nikki Haley, Rabbi Hier and Mary Hart and Burt Sugarman (SWC Trustees).

dedicated his life to building bridges between communities, supporting tolerance education, and fighting against discrimination in all its forms. “Dominic was a giant among men with the soul of an angel,” said Alison Pure-Slovin, SWC Midwest Region Director. Medal of Valor Awards were given to Mohammed Al Samawi, Megan Hallahan, Justin Hefter and Daniel Pincus—the individuals featured in the best-selling memoir, "The Fox Hunt", where Mr. Al Samawi’s life is saved from the brutal civil war in Yemen with the help of a daring plan engineered on social media by a small group of interfaith activists; Hallahan, Hefter, and Pincus. ABC-7's Alan Krashesky served as the evening’s emcee.

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Briand Frazier, Lindsay Siwiec and Evan Marshall.

Project Style hosted its 2nd annual Chips in for Charity Casino Night on May 9th at Taste 222. Over 200 guests gathered to gamble for good and raised nearly $30K for the Chicago-based non profit that uses fashion as a tool to engage and empower

Katie Diehl, Tonisha Hood, Monica-Kaye Gamble, Victoria Watkins, Lindsay Siwiec, Jessica Marx, Jenny Applegate.

disadvantaged youth. There were multiple blackjack, craps, and roulette tables for partygoers to enjoy. Those who found themselves lucky on the tables were able to use their winnings towards raffle prizes from TGIN, Kendra

Andre Wilson Steven Staffan Johnny Endrihs

Andre Wilson, Steven Staffan, and Johnny Endrihs.

Scott, and Sunda to name a few. Silent auction items were also available, including an autographed jersey from Derek Jeter, concert tickets from Rob Thomas, men's fashion from Eredità Shoes, Brummell Socks, and Surmesur, fine jewelry from Rachel Lynn and Ora Nicole, ticket packages from the Chicago Cubs and shopping sprees from Marcus and

Ishan Johnson

Alexandra Marks Jewelry. Founded in 2017, Project Style hosts in-school workshops that educate girls on how fashion and self-esteem intersect; teaching them the link between confidence and personal style, the difference between expression and objectification and how to find and embrace their authentic selves. The girls can take what they learn in the workshops and put it to use as they shop for free from donated clothing pop-up boutiques that are temporarily constructed in their schools.

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Emcee Jenni Pulos with NHM president Dr. Laura Calamos.

The National Hellenic Museum hosted its annual gala, this year themed "Projecting into the Future," on May 11 at The Geraghty. The event attracted hundreds of Greek Americans, friends and community members

Sue Carey, John Cannis, George Safis, Iris McCaffery and Martha Cannis.

from across the country in celebration of the legacy of Hellenism during a lively night of great food, auctions, live music and dancing. The event will benefit tens of thousands of visitors, including schoolchildren and families who attend the Museum on field trips, during community events and for programs. The gala

Glam gala guests!

was emceed by popular former “Flipping Out” star, Jenni Pulos, who donated artwork created by her nephew, artist Nicholas Kontaxis, to the Museum. The evening was enhanced by the live musical stylings of Manhattan and the Chris Sarlas Orchestra featuring Nick Lambrinatos and Voula Karahaliou. The evening honored Peter

John Calamos Sr. (founder/chairman/global CIO, Calamos Investments), Mae Calamos, Ethel Parthenis (founder/ board chair Grecian Delight Foods) and Peter Parthenis.

Parthenis, Sr. in recognition of his lifetime of commitment to the National Hellenic Museum. “We are thrilled that Peter Parthenis, Jr. was

John Karamanos and Paul Athens.

able to join us in honoring his father, through a moving dedication depicting the path of this enterprising Greek American family! The Museum is lucky to have a shining example from our wide community of support,” said Dr. Laura Calamos, Museum president. Attendees were delighted to discover that the décor of this special evening was provided by the museum’s exhibition and collections teams, as images of Greek

Artist Nicholas Kontaxis donated a piece of artwork.

Americans from the archives decorated all aspects of the event. “We were excited to show the ongoing work the Museum does to protect, catalog, and preserve the historical archives that represent the Greek American experience. This was an impactful way to highlight our important work as a museum,” said Dr. Laura Calamos, "And with the NHM Collections & Archives Portal soon accessible online, everyone will be able to learn about our history and culture, from anywhere in the world!”

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Aisha Murff (R) and friends.

The 12th annual Veuve Clicquot (celeb-filled) Classic brought together more than 9,000 guests in Liberty Park for an unforgettable afternoon of polo alongside the idyllic back drop of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The Brut and Rosé Champagne flowed with a feast to match the drink. Buffet tables overflowed with salmon, miniature dollops of burrata and tiny cast iron skillets filled with

“Pose” actor Ryan Jamaal Swain with Aisha.

shrimp and grits. Dessert followed in the form of fruity cake pops and strawberry ice cream sandwiches the size of silver dollars. A call to “Stomp the Divots” brought guests to the field. Seen inside the viewing tent at this Champagne soiree were Michael B. Jordan, Jennifer

Aisha Murff with Tina Wilson (wife of former Chicago Bear Otis Wilson).

Lawrence (newly engaged), Gayle King, and Nicky Hilton Rothschild. The National Anthem was performed by “POSE” actor Ryan Jamaal Swain. Julianne Moore gracefully performed the ceremonial ball toss at the start of the game. The days' events came to an end with a victory for Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier, concluding with a

Tracey Johns, Aisha Murff, Tina Wilson and Krystal Harris.

“highest-scoring award” for Figueras, which came in the form of a limited-edition timepiece from Hubolt. "Soon waiters gently cleared away glasses and plates, a polite signal it was nearly time to go. Guests slowly and reluctantly peeled themselves from the dreamy scene and made it back to reality by way of Manhattan-bound ferries. Just like a dream it was all over much too soon," said darling attendee Aisha Murff, who attended with Tina Wilson (wife of former Chicago Bear Otis Wilson).

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The curtain lifts, a hush falls over the audience and design takes center stage. Objects from more than 50 of Chicago’s storefront theaters, Tony Award-winning companies, back-of-the-bar comedy shows and improv troupes will star in the Design Museum of Chicago’s new exhibition, “Setting the Stage: Objects of Chicago Theatre,” opening on June 29th at Expo 72 (72 E. Randolph). This design-focused show is part of the 2019 Year of Chicago Theatre, a citywide, year-long focus presented by the Chicago Mayor’s office, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the League of Chicago Theatres.

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Abloh/Louis Vuitton pop-up at 1100 W. Randolph.

Virgil Abloh madness is alive and well in Chicago! For Abloh, a Rockford native, multi-disciplinary artist and former creative director for Kanye West, everything he touches is turning to gold beginning with his Off-White luxury brand and continuing through his collab with

BEST smiling--Facetune_09-06-2019-11-41-25

With Virgil Abloh at the MCA's ArtEdge gala.

Louis Vuitton as its innovative menswear designer/director. We attended the MCA's ArtEdge gala on June 8 celebrating him on the eve of his first museum exhibition, "Virgil Abloh: Figures of Speech" and it was as unique as the designer himself, beginning with a red

Virgil (Abloh) signed sneaker at the NikeLab pop-up on N. Michigan.

carpet set up in the loading dock area and continuing into the freight elevator with hanging chandeliers. His pop-ups around town, one for Louis Vuitton at 1100 W. Randolph (see it here) and one at 677 N. Michigan with NikeLab that includes a mentorship program for young, local artists (see it here), are attracting crowds and lines. I love his creations and his design philosophy that is inspired by the kids on the street but with a luxury twist. Keep up the great work and check out my Chicago Tribune column about the exciting gala coming soon here!

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Playboy stand up poster from Mike Travis--mgtravis@twc.com--5-26-19

Now…

It was a nice surprise to receive a call from longtime, Playboy super-fan Mike Travis. His Playboy collection consists

Then….

of over 25,000+ pieces of memorabilia spanning Club items like unique glassware and even curtains imprinted with Bunny logos to my life-size, standup poster that stood in all of the Clubs at one time advertising key club sales and upcoming events. I owned one in the 70s/80s but it disappeared and I've always hoped to find one again. I'm a collector too but, sadly, he wasn't willing to sell. However, he WAS willing to drive all the way from Kentucky, with fellow collector Russ Henning, to have me sign it. It was great to chat about the Golden Age of Playboy with like-minded fans like myself (and at least I have the photo.) Lol! Thanks for the memories Mike and Russ!

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Mike Morales, Billy Dec and Louis Yee.

Sunda Chicago’s 10 Year Anniversary Party took place on May 16 with over 300 guests in attendance, including local luminaries like Ryan Chiaverini, Rochelle Trotter, Linda Yu, and Matt Forte. Hosted by owner Billy Dec and chef/partner Mike Morales, guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and

Rebecca Uy Ryan Chiaverni Martina Platanias Christine Vi Maggie Krebs

cocktails, before digging into a traditional Kamayan Feast. This traditional family-style meal, which translates to “with hands” in

Teresa Soren and Rochelle Trotter.

Tagalong, is commonly employed to mark special occasions where friends and family can be connected through food. Guests capped off the night with cultural performances, including a Lion Dance. Congrats to this River North hotspot and its creative founder Billy and partner Mike!

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Don't miss the season finale of Collector's Call on Sunday, June 23. This brand new show from MeTV is dedicated to the collector in all of us! The show we will appear on features our book collection. Chuck and I have been collecting books since the 80s when I purchased a set of Hemingway first editions from Leslie Hindman Auctioneers for Chuck's Christmas gift. Since then,

With Leslie Hindman and Thomas Joyce.

we've gone on to make some great rare book scores, including all of the British and American first editions of the Harry Potter series (all signed by J.K. Rowling and including special presentation copies to her father, signed scripts and more); a Tolkien-signed Hobbit; Ian Fleming's Dr. No signed by its star Sean Connery; Winnie-the-Pooh signed by author/illustrator Milne, Shepherd; Bambi in the original German; vintage pop-ups; 1st edition F. Scott Fitzgeralds that includes his wife Zelda's only book and more. Can't wait! Hope you tune in!

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Maria Pappas' beautiful image on her birthday cake!

Congrats and happy birthday to everyone's favorite public servant, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. She recently spent time at Operation Push Headquarters to help seniors with their housing concerns (read Sun-Times' Mary Mitchell's column here). Her innovations at the Treasurer's office are something to behold. Love and thanks for all you do Maria and we hope your birthday was as special as you are!

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Fashion designer/humanitarian Quinton de' Alexander was feted at the DuSable Museum on June 7 during "Blueprint," an exhibit

Quinton de' Alexander surrounded by friends/fans wearing his creations.

dedicated to the "blueprint" of his amazing life and career. He founded the Dream in Color Foundation which supports the homeless and at-risk youth and is CEO of Creativity United, a nonprofit that annually recognizes deserving community leaders during its "We Dream in Color" Humanitarian Celebration. (This year's event will be hosted by CBS News' Suzanne Le Mignot on Saturday, July 13. For tickets, more info, click here). During a VIP reception, I interviewed Quinton and learned more about this amazing man who gives back to so many. Thanks for all you do Q and congrats, congrats, CONGRATS!

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The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs will celebrate their 22nd Annual Wine Dinner on June 14 at the Union League Club. This wine dinner benefits the over 14,000 youths associated with the ULBGC. A special toast will be made in honor of the nonprofit’s 100^th year anniversary. The event will feature the iconic Heitz Cellar wines which produces the highest quality wine since 1961. Guests will enjoy a five-course meal specially created by the renowned Union League Club's Chef Garbin with each course paired with a different Heitz Cellar wine. This years event will have ULBGC trustees, Lisa Shade and Michael L. Sullivan as co-chairs. (For tickets, $225, and more info, click here!)

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The Childrens Place Association will present "Enchantment Under the Sea" on Friday, June 14 at Ignite Glass Studios. The nonprofit provides critical assistance to children and their families in four key areas of impact: health, education, family stability and financial stability. (For tickets/more info, please click here)

Mark your calendars NOW for the next Randolph Street Market coming June 29/30, Sat./Sun. from 10 – 5 pm! "Red, White & Cool" will feature endless high end vintage dealers, food, live entertainment, SALLY SCHWARTZ and MORE! There's no better place to visit on a weekend!

The Service Club of Chicago will host its annual "Day on the Terrace" fashion show/fundraiser on Monday, August 5. The luncheon will feature the city's top retail stores and designers showcasing their "first look" at fall fashion modeled by SC members and local celebs. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions and co-chaired by SC members Jean Antoniou, Yvette Cusack and Sharyl Mackey, the event at The Peninsula Chicago is always a sellout so get your tickets while you can HERE!

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I hope you can join me on Thursday, October 10 when I will be honored by the AIBI with its Chicago Fashion Icon Award at the Perillo Rolls Royce Gold Coast dealership (834 N. Rush St.) I love our local designers and can't wait to celebrate with them, and hopefully YOU, during this fashion show/fundraiser! Thrilled to have Frances Renk as our Honorary Committee Chair and ZZAZZ Productions producing the runway show! The fabulous Ji Suk Yi will be our emcee! More details to come! Thank you so much AIBI! I'm so excited! (Save-the-Date image by the one and only Rosemary Fanti!)

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Nan Giordano and Gus Giordano --Nan Giordano Day June 9

The late Gus Giordano and daughter Nan Giordano both have days dedicated to them in Chicago!

Like father, like daughter! Congrats to the much loved artistic director of Giordano Dance Chicago, Nan Giordano! Former Mayor Emanuel designated Sunday, June 9 as NAN GIORDANO DAY in Chicago! Her late father, Gus Giordano, founder of the GDC, also has a day, April 25. Awwwww!

The weather we've all been waiting for appears to have arrived! Thank goodness as we have all sorts of fun outdoor activities we're anxious to pursue like checking out all of the city's wonderful street festivals! (See list here!)

Have a great summer!

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And, as always, something to make you smile! This 5 year-old Indiana girl is a hero (and so adorable) on this 911 call…..

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Tagged as Adam Capes, AIBI, Andrew Hayes, Billy Dec, CAMP exhibit, Chicago Tribune, Children's Place Association, Chips in for Charity Casino Night, Cook County Treasurer, David Brandt, David Granados, Design Museum of Chicago, Driehaus Design Initiative, Four Seasons New York, Getaway2Give, Giordano Dance Chicago, Goodman Theatre, Kim Renk Dryer, Maria Pappas, Mary Hart, Megan Hilty, MET, Museum of Contemporary Art, MyEyeDr, Nan Giordano, National Hellenic Museum, Nikki Haley Simon Wiesenthal Center, OUT of Office, Project Style, Randolph Street Market, Rev Up, Service Club of Chicago, Sharon Bush, Simon Weisenthal Center, street festivals, Sunda, Union League Boys and Girls Clubs, Veuve Clicquot NYC Polo Classic, Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic, Virgil Abloh

May 16, 2019 · 10:19 am

ACTOR CHRISTIAN BALE LEADS ALL-STAR LINE-UP FOR SOS ILLINOIS BENEFIT

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

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SOS Illinois Luminaries 2019

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

Actor Christian Bale, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and SOS Illinois board member

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

With Smita Shah and Leslie Hindman.

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

Celebrity chefs prepared a 15 course menu!

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

Tarrah and Jeff Wright, Christian Bale, Rich and Melissa Gamble and friend.

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

Award-winning author Gillian Flynn, SOS Illinois CEO Tim McCormick and Christian Bale.

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

Chefs enjoying themselves in front of step and repeat

Lead event chef Tony Priolo (R) and fellow celeb chefs.

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

Celebrity chefs who donated their time and talents.

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

With sponsor Alex Pissios and my friend/SOS Illinois board member Mary Pat Burns.

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

With inspiring SOS Illinois alumni Tevin Marbeth.

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

Dining & Conversation was held on the Pritzker Pavilion Stage.

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

Emcee Micah Materre introduces celebrity chefs.

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

The ultimate selfie with Batman. Don't be jelly.

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

The lively art of conversation to benefit a great cause!

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

Fun with new friends.

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

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Dominic DiFrisco–1933-2019

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

Carol and Dominic DiFrisco.

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

En Famille–Nina Mariano, Dominic, Carol and Pasquale Dominic Gianni.

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

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Jamie Gaballa, Chuck Jordan, Dominic, Whitey Pearson, Tess Malone and John Zajak (Photo by Mila Samokhina).

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

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Alderwoman Michelle Smith gives Dominic a street, with his grandson Pasquale Gianni.

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

Daddy/daughter dance.

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

Booth at Gene & Georgetti's reserved in his memory.

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

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Dapper Dominic points to his street sign. (Photo by Mila Samokhina).

delivery, receiving applause and even a standing ovation

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Dominic and Carol at one of his favorite restaurants, G & G's, with owners Marion and Tony Durpetti.

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

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Nina, Bob and Dominic in happier days. (Photo by Mila Samokhina).

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

Dominic with the late Mayor Richard J. Daley.

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

A photo Dominic had hanging in his Edelman office with his hero, Joe DiMaggio.

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

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Retrospect Chicago creator Sally Schwartz (R) with childhood friend/show curator Kathy Aronstam.

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

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Andrea Reynders wearing her own Castlebajac coat.

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

Cute models and vintage lovers Mark Olley and Tanner Chapman.

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

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An honor to receive the CECA Impact Award alongside Julie Novack and Lanie Hartman.

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

CECA Impact Award winner Lanie Hartman.

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

CECA Board Members

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

Friends/tablemates Sheila O'Grady, Michael Caputo, Greg Hyder and my Chuck.

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

Friends/tablemates Frances Renk, Paul Iacono and Mark Olley.

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

Friends/tablemates Beth Florek, John Robak, Mary Pat Burns and Tracey Tarantino.

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

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Hosts Adam Rapoport Kerry Diamond Hunter lewis

Hosts Adam Rapoport, Kerry Diamond and Hunter Lewis.

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

Zoey Deschanel and Jacob Pechenik

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

RL Restaurant–the perfect spot to host an elegant soiree!

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

Kwame Onwuachi, Andrew Zimmern, JJ Johnson and Chef Chris Coombs.

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

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Jay Allen (country music star & Care Giver Award Recipient) and Kylie Morgan.

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

Princess Yasmin (General Chair and Founder) and Blaise LaBriola

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

Deborah Pearce, Laura Putman, Leah Costantino and Peggy Jacober

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

Legacy Award recipients Joan and Paul Rubschlager

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

Amber Rich, Kylie Morgan, Jay Allen, Casandra Robertson, Evan Robertson, Joe Rich

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

Co-chairs Jim, Dan Jr., JoAnn and Dan III Murphy.

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

Jill Baloun, Sarah Creviston, JoAnn Murphy, Inete Bulaw and Tae Haider-Krebs

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

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Laura Faynor-Ciha and Clay Ciha (pres/CEO, AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hosp).

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

Beth and Dr. Paul Guske, Amy and Dr. Jim Kane and Meg and Dr. Michael Recenstein.

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

Tom and Kathy Palmer, Rich and Jan Augustine.

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

Bob and Pam Seiser with Dina Morris and David Hoppe.

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

Mark Frey (AMITA Health pres/CEO), Melanie Furlan (Sr. VP & Philanthropy Officer) and Clay Ciha (AMITA Health Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital).

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

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Honorees Pat and Betsy Canning.

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

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CJO40thGala_TRosenthal_RRusnak_JLindbergh_DFodor_web_by Charles Osgood

CJO supporter, honoree Ray Rusnak (2nd from L) with friends. with

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

CJO40thGala_Jeff Lindberg_Denise Tomasello_Don Conover_web_by Charles Osgood

Jeff Lindberg, Denise Tomasello and Don Conover.

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

A. Alyce Claerbaut.

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

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Sarah and Mark McGee.

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

Paul and Callie Huebener.

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

Butkus Mike & Kristi and Butkus Michael & Kelly - RMHC Family

Mike and Kristi Butkus and Kelly and Michael Butkus–RMHC Family.

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

Cantalupo Jeff & Nicole - Hinsdale 60521 and Mitchell Lisa & Matt - Oak Park

Nicole and Jeff Cantalupo and Lisa and Matt Mitchell.

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

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Honoree Vonita Reescer with Stanley Paul and Marsha Brenner.

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

Dori Wilson, Whitney Lasky, Tracey Tarantino, Eve Montoya, Reute Butler and emcee Robin Robinson with honoree Vonita Reescer.

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

Top R to L-Mark Olley, Scott Seaman, Cookie Cohen, Sherry Abrahams (Front L to R) Vonita, Charlene Seaman and Denise Tomasello.

with a personalized song by Kim Jones. Vonita founded

The event benefits the Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Foundation that funds fashion scholarships.

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

Eve Montoya, Sherry Lea Holson, Julia Jacobs, Debbie Krolik.

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

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

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

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

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

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Hindman-Team_Thomas-Galbraith-Leslie-Hindman-Wes-Cowan_Web21-750x750

Thomas Galbraith, Leslie Hindman and Wes Cowan.

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

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

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

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Gaga stole the Met Gala show.

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

Kylie and Kendall in Versace.

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

Gigi Hadid in Michael Kors escorted by Kors in top hat.

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

Dramatic pink flamingo centerpiece designed by Raul Avila and team.

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

Kim in Thierry Mugler's "wet dress".

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

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Cooper Hefner is hopping down a new path.

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

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NMMA Gala - Carlos X Montoya - Sandy Goldsmith -Eve Rodriguez Montoya Gala Chair- Evelia Rodriguez

Carlos Montoya, Sandy Goldsmith, gala chair Eve Rodriguez Montoya and Evelia Rodriguez.

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

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Newlyweds Tarrah and Jeff Wright!

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

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

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace @CandidCandace.com

P.S. Try to stop smiling……

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Tagged as Adam McKay, Alexian Brothers, AMITA Health System, Andrew Hayes, BBJ Linens, Bloom 'n Toss, Catering Executives Club of America, Catherine Costello, Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, Chicago Jazz Orchestra, Christian Bale, Cooper Hefner, David Eigenberg, Dominic DiFrisco, Earlybirds and bookworms, Gene Siskel Film Center, Gillian Flynn, Hindman Auctions, Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore, James Beard Awards, Jeff Wright, Jeffrey Banks, Joe Monastero, Jon Favreau, Julie Novack, Lanie Hartman, Leslie Hindman, LGBTQ, Mary Pat Burns, Met Gala, Nina Mariano, OUT of Office, PartySlate, Playboy, Randolph Street Market, Retrospect Chicago, Rita Hayworth Gala, Robert Downey Jr., Robert Neubert, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ryan Pitts, Sally Schwartz, Service Club of Chicago, Simply From the Heart, SOS Children's Villages Illinois, SOS Illinois, Stanley Paul, Stanley Paul Foundation, Star Jones, Tarrah Cooper, Tony Priolo, Val Warner, Vonita Reescer

May 13, 2013 · 8:57 am

STEPPENWOLF’S MILLION DOLLAR FUNDRAISER IS LOADED WITH TALENT!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Viso, elda de la rosa, Elizabeth Cole, Ellen Alberding, Elysabeth Alfano, Eric Lefkofsky, Estelle Walgreen, Eva Pazola, Event Creative, Evie Lyon, Faces of Love Foundation, Fashion in a New Light, Fear No Art, Femme du Coupe, Food for Thought, Friends of Prentice, Gaby’s Organic Garden, Gallery 225, Gary Cole, Gary Sinise, Generation Rescue, Gina Ferraro, Giorgio Armani, Glamorama, Glamorama Launch Party, Greater North Michigan Avenue Association, Gregory Case, Gucci, Hank Aaron, Hart Davis Hart Wine Co., Head of Passes, Heinz Kern, Holiday Market, Horacio Nieto, Hub 51, Hubbard Street 2, Human First Performance & Gala, Ibis Guillen, Indie Designer Market, Isaia, Jack Higgins, Jamal Mayers, James Bond, James Franco, Jeff Perry, Jenny McCarthy, Jim True-Frost, Joan Allen, John Carroll, John Hinshaw, Jon Landan, Jon Michael Hill, Jonathan “Yoni” Pizer, Joseph A. Gregorie, Josh Charles, Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, Julie Matthei, Juno, Juvenile Protective Association, K. 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April 4, 2013 · 11:59 am

COMMON’S ‘UN-COMMON’ STAR-FILLED FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ELDA’S ODE TO SPRING; BLUE MASQUE BALL; GIORDANO DANCE CHICAGO CELEBRATES 50; JENNY MCCARTHY’S “RESCUE OUR ANGELS”; ART INSTITUTE’S “NIGHT HEIST”; COOL, CHRIS AND FLORIDA PARTY IN MIAMI; JOE’S BAR WINS BIG; ULTA BEAUTY’S CARRIE AND MOLLY PARTY WITH NAOMI, KAROLINA AND NIGEL; PALM BEACH POLO ANYONE?; WONKA BALL; PUPPY MILLS BE GONE!; TEA AND FASHION WITH SARAH WOOD; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN-TV; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was no wonder the Common Ground Gala was a sell-out at the Four Seasons on March 23rd! Who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders – or even be in the same room – with the legendary Earvin “Magic” Johnson and rapper-turned-actor-turned-author Common (aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn)? I was so excited to be covering this major event for my
Watch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” but was a bit surprised that there wasn’t more press in attendance for the VIP red carpet portion of the event. Mind you, I’m not complaining and in reality, this was reserved for the night’s honorees so I know they wanted to keep this
portion of the evening manageable. I was also surprised to see Magic Johnson not only arrive on time for the red carpet interviews but to arrive FIVE MINUTES EARLY! No wonder this guy is such a success: Besides being a Hall of Fame
basketball player and able to play every single position on the court, his business acumen is legendary. Presented by Coca-Cola, this third annual event honored Magic, Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas, Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand and raised over $350,000. This colorful and inspiring group of honorees was selected based on their
service, impactful lives and unprecedented career success. Though honoree Gabby Douglas was unable to attend, she sent a video expressing how thrilled she was and concluded playfully with energetic footage of her family and friends doing the Harlem Shake. Emceed by ABC 7’s Cheryl Burton and actor Lamman Rucker, the event was exciting from
beginning to end but perhaps the most breathtaking moment came when Magic raised more than $100,000 with a live auction package he donated in the first few minutes of the event. Cheryl Burton started off the bidding at $20K for seven floor seats to a Laker’s game, seven signed throwback jerseys and a private dinner with Magic. It sold three times for $90K with Magic adding
another $10K for an even $100K donation! WOW, right? Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand graciously accepted their awards and pledged their support to the Common Ground Foundation’s Summer Youth Camp. They praised
Common, highlighting his authenticity and commitment, noting how truly “uncommon” he is. Six teens from the Common Ground Foundation’s “Dreamers and Believers Mentoring Program” spoke movingly about how important and life changing the summer camp and year-round mentoring has been for each of them.
All proceeds from the black tie event benefited Common’s non-profit organization, the Common Ground Foundation (CGF). Additional attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Jim Reynolds (Loop Capital), co-chairs Les Coney (Mesirow Financial) and Juanita Jordan (Vanoy Jordan Enterprises), red capet host Michelle Releford (NBC 5), Andre Johnson (Magic Johnson Enterprises), Melody Spann-Cooper (WVON), Andrea Zopp (CEO, Chicago Urban League), Nina and Bob Mariano, Jeanne
Sparrow (co-host WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning”), Marc Brooks, Terri
Mariano, Tamara Brown and Derek Dudley among many others. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction reception (with a highlight being an ALL-access trip to the Grammys), live performance by Chicago Soul Centric (featuring Aziza Lisa), dinner and dancing. The evening was followed by an after-party at the Hard Rock Hotel.

In order to pay homage to honorees that have achieved success all while impacting communities in a significant way, the Common Ground Foundation began hosting the gala in an effort to highlight the accomplishments of key influencers and help fund the organization. Last year’s
event honored legendary and famous activist and actor Harry Belafonte as well as executive vice president of the Boeing Corporation James A. Bell, Chicago Bear and youth advocate Israel Idonije and CEO and founder of MillionDollar$cholar Derrius Quarles. “I started the Common Ground Foundation because I wanted to help, most of all to help people help
themselves. I always believed if we started with the youth, then we would be planting the seeds for our future to blossom,” says Common. Love this guy! To learn more about this incredible organization, please click here! To see ALL of the fun from this wonderful night, please watch my video below! Magic and Common give some great advice to Chicago’s youth and Magic tells us just what he thinks about Chicago so let me take YOU to the party!

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Beloved designer Elda de la Rosa presented her 2013 Spring collection, titled “La Vie en Rose,” on March 19th in the Avenues Ballroom of the beautiful Peninsula Hotel. Elda had been working hard for months getting her beautiful designs
ready for the runway and her hard work paid off as the SRO crowd oohed and aahed for every model who sashayed down the salon-style runway. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracy Tarantino, the event’s host committee included Jean Antoniou, Toni Canada, Diana Palomar, Dusty Stemer, Tracy, Tasia June Travlos, Moira Tuffy and
Marsha Brenner. Elda’s honorary committee included many politicos including Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Senator Heather Steans, State Rep Kelly Cassidy, Aldermen Patrick O’Connor and Harry Osterman and Committeewoman Carol Ronen. ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez, a longtime friend of Elda’s, served as emcee wearing a stunning blue Elda gown. I was thrilled to be a model along with Greg Hyder, Jean Antoniou, Diana Palomar, Patricia Gillman,
Moira Tuffy, Nancy Meyerson, Kathy
Burke and Minister Blaine Moulton. The evening began with a silent auction and reception in the Grant Park Room. At 8 p.m., the show began in the ballroom with Sylvia welcoming the crowd. She introduced Chanel style consultant Randolph Tovar who talked about his fashion inspirations and how style influences us. Then, the lights dimmed and the classic French song by Edith Piaf, “La Vie en Rose,” began to play. Sylvia repeated a line from the song, “When he takes me in his arms and speaks softly to me, I see life in rosy hues, he tells me
words of love, words of every day and, in them, I become something.” She went on to say, “A woman who wears Elda de la Rosa does indeed ‘become
something,’ something very special, gorgeous, beautiful and radiant.” And then the show began! Every woman was a star as she glided down the runway in her Elda creation. The finale was the gorgeous wedding gown worn by Jordan Stemer at her recent nuptials. All of the proceeds from the event benefited the programs and work of the Edgewater Development Corp., an organization dedicated to working with Chicago’s small business entrepreneurs. Congrats again Elda on a beautiful collection! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins and David Stephens…view more here!)

The Greek America Foundation presented its second annual Blue Masque Ball, a fundraising event to benefit charities in debt-stricken Greece, at the Blackstone Hotel on March 16th. This year’s honorary chairs
were Emmy Award-winning journalist Tom Negovan and his wife, Splash editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, Susanna Negovan. The couple brought years of support to local charities of the Greek America Foundation and Susanna was excited to support and honor her Greek heritage. The entire ballroom was transformed into a casino gaming floor with blackjack, craps and roulette tables dotting the room. All proceeds
from the ball, which brought together the best of traditional Greek Mardi Gras celebrations in Casino Royale style, benefited Project Hope for Greece. This is a new initiative launched by the Greek America Foundation to support a
wide range of accredited charity-driven institutions in Greece that are struggling to solve the problems of its people amidst the country’s worst economic crisis since World War II. Proceeds will be shared with various charities and organizations that have a proven track record of offering support to the country. Ellison Sunglasses CEO Aristotle Loumis served as the Young Professionals Chair. Celebrity guests included Constantine Maroulis of “American Idol” fame and
now performing in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde”; Christos Garkinos of
Decades and BravoTV’s new reality show “Dukes of Melrose” who was joined by Amanda Puck; Evangeline Goutelas of CITE Restaurant and Skyline Equities and Paula Fasseas of PAWS Chicago. DJ John Grammatis kept the lounge jumpin’ with nonstop music and
dancing. Founded in 1997, the Greek America Foundation’s mission is to “promote, preserve and perpetuate Greek culture, history and heritage in North America.” For more info on this wonderful non-profit, please visit greekamerica.org. Congrats Susanna and Tom!

Giordano Dance Chicago celebrated its BIG 50th anniversary at the Harris Theater with a Gala Benefit (presented by the Boeing Company) on March 23rd. Pam Crutchfield served as honorary chair for this
special event, with choreographer to the stars Liz Imperio serving as artistic chair. The benefit drew 275 people and raised $100,000 for GDC and their programs. VIP gala ticket holders began their evening with an intimate pre-show
backstage Signature Experience, including an in-the-wings champagne toast while viewing the final last-minute on-stage dancer preparations, followed by a backstage buffet dinner and conversation with artistic
director Nan Giordano, Crutchfield and Imperio. As a special treat, they also had the chance to be part of “Circle,” GDC’s inspirational pre-performance ritual, moments before the dancers took the stage. The performance featured the
premiere of Imperio’s “La Belleza de Cuba” plus works from the GDC critically-acclaimed repertoire. Each work was preceded by video introductions, created by HMS Media from recent and archival GDC video and photos, providing historical content and
illuminating the company’s extraordinary achievements. At 9:30 p.m., following the performance, gala attendees were escorted to the Pritzker Pavilion stage where they took in the dazzling view of Chicago’s Millennium Park nighttime skyline
while mingling with GDC dancers and alum, enjoying an exquisite buffet catered by Cork Catering and Special Events and listening to live music by the George McRae Trio. “We knew this golden anniversary celebration was going to be special but on so many levels the results far
exceeded our expectations,” says GDC artistic director Nan Giordano. “A lion’s share of the credit goes to our incredible benefit chairs and committee, who, along with our hardworking staff, selflessly poured their heart and soul into
this event. We are extremely grateful to everyone who joined us for this evening, the memory of which is something I will remember and cherish forever. It was an incredible tribute to my late father, Gus Giordano, and all who have supported us
throughout our 50 years.” GDC is one of the longest running professional dance companies in Chicago and one of the very few dance companies in the U.S. to have achieved this half-century milestone. This achievement was recognized on the cover of the March 2013 edition of Dance Magazine.

Televions star, model, actress and hometown girl Jenny McCarthy hosts the 6th Annual Rescue Our Angels event to support her nonprofit Generation Rescue, raise awareness of autism and generate funds to support families dealing with an autism diagnosis. McCarthy – whose son Evan has recovered from autism – is president of Generation
Rescue and an advocate for children with autism and their families. The exclusive party will feature red carpet arrivals for VIP guests, remarks by McCarthy honoring Chicago couple Michele and Pete Doyle (founders of the event) and an “experience zone” – a hands-on way for guests to better understand the sensitivities that children on the autism spectrum experience. In addition to McCarthy, more than 400 VIP guests are expected to be in attendance, including Jacqueline and Chris Laurita (“Real Housewives of New Jersey”), Doug
Clerget (“The Bachelorette”), Alexis Wineman (2013 People’s Choice Winner, Miss America), Colette Davis (open wheel driver), Heath Frisby (X Games snowmobile medalist) and Madi Wolf (singer). Tickets to the event are $100 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, entertainment and access to a live auction of incredible prizes. A limited number of VIP booths are available for purchase, too. For tickets, visit rescueourangels.com or click here.

The Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago’s annual fundraising event, “Night Heist”, returns for its third year to the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court on April 26th from 8 to 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Art Institute’s major exhibition Picasso and Chicago – a celebration of the work of Picasso, his connections to the city and his enduring influence. Event includes live music, entertainment, themed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. General admission tickets are $95 (price to increase after 4/19) and the VIP Night Heist Experience (includes a one-hour reception beginning at 7 p.m.) is $150. For tickets and more info, please click here!

Recently, Chris Brown, FloRida and Hennessy V.S put on a show at Dream nightclub in Miami, all to celebrate the birthday of super producer Cool, from Cool & Dre. Chris Brown hit the stage and performed a slew of his hits including, “Look At Me Now” and “No Bullsh*t.” The singer put on a complete show, showcasing his
signature dance moves and even showing off his rock hard abs. Rapper FloRida also hit the stage to celebrate Cool’s birthday and even helped lead the crowd in a “Happy Birthday” chant for the producer. Cool, huh? 🙂 (Photos by Humberto Cruz…view more pics here!)

Chicago Vintage Market pioneer Sally Schwartz is thrilled to announce Randolph Street Market’s Modern Vintage Chicago spring installation will return to the West Loop’s Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) on April 20th and 21st. Recognized as one of the top three vintage shows in the country, this bi-annual event comes just in time to add vintage flair to spring and summer wardrobes that will turn heads! Offering the
best selection of jewelry, clothing and accessories vendors from across the Midwest, as well as Atlanta, NYC, Texas, Minneapolis and Philadelphia for men and women, this event is not to be missed! Among its 90+ vendors, new to the Market this year is the talented, Danielle Colby of “American Pickers” fame. Danielle will bring her vintage wares from her Wicker Park boutique, 4 Miles 2 Memphis, as well as perform with her burlesque troupe, Burlesque Le’Moustache. For more info, visit modernvintagechicago.com, call 312-666-1200 or email info@modernvintagechicago.com.

The SPRING AWAKENING Fashion Show didn’t herald the advent of spring but it did provide a beautiful night inside the warm greenhouse at City Escape Garden Center & Design Studio in the West Loop recently.
Hosted by Benjamin Cottrell and Shari Duffy, this event offered VIP guests the opportunity to stroll the gardens during the champagne reception, shop City Escapes’ unique gifts and listen to the sound of Miss Heart Illinois 2013,
Marisa Buchheit. The show opened with a performance by the Candid Concert Opera Company as models strutted the runway in designs by Stix & Roses, LH Couture, Tres Haute Chic, Just Class Jewelry and StyleUp Girl
Shoes. World renowned cellist Ian Makin serenaded the models down the garden inspired runway. A portion of the proceeds benefitted Chicago Gateway Green. TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. (Photos by Jun Nagano.)

Congratulations are in order for Joe’s Bar on Weed St. (940 W. Weed St) owner Ed Warm: His Chicago venue – known for hosting some of the biggest names in country music – has just been named Nightclub of the Year by the Academy of Country Music!!!
Warm, whose keen ear for emerging talent has earned him immense respect within the Nashville music scene, is also taking home honors as Promoter of the Year. (This is the third time Joe’s has been named Nightclub of the Year but the first win for Warm as Promoter of the Year.) Huge congrats on these much deserved wins! (The 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on April 7th).

Talk about a dream job! ULTA Beauty Director of Public Relations Carrie Lannon and ULTA Beauty Director of Trend Development Molly Sloat partied with supermodel Naomi Campbell
and Nigel Barker in New York during the filming of their hit show, “The Face.” (The finale episode was March 26th.) I sure hope to see this cool model driven show return soon! The show, hosted by Nigel Barker, followed three supermodel coaches (Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova and Naomi) as they
competed with each other to find “the face” of ULTA Beauty. Carrie and Molly worked with Nigel, Naomi, Coco and Karolina and appeared on the final episode as they chose the winner of the show: Twenty-one-year-old Devyn Abdullah from Team Kurkova became the first Face of
Ulta Beauty! She will appear in its ads, go to Fashion Week and make personal appearances in ULTA Beauty stores. Congrats to Devyn, Carrie and Molly! If you need an assistant, you know who to call!

And now for some exciting news from Palm Beach! The USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship is a four-week, 26-goal tournament that will finalize its 10th Anniversary Season at the International Polo Club. The
action began on March 31st and will continue on April 7th, 14th and 21st, showcasing the world’s most elite, high-goal players and the finest polo ponies. As one can imagine, the celebrity line-up is impressive and will include heartthrob Antonio Sabato, Jr., Emmy Award winner Liz Calloway, actress Ann Hampton Callaway, American Idol’s Brooke Eden and a perfect “10”
Bo Derek. Country music star Lee Greenwood will
perform “God Bless the USA” before the final match on April 21st. This high-goal polo action takes place every Sunday through April 21st, with tickets starting at $10 for general admission and up to $120 for box seating. Tickets for the lavish Sunday brunch at The
Pavilion and its reception start at $65 going upward to $330 for the Veuve Clicquot brunch package for two. Tickets can be purchased online at InternationalPoloClub.com or by calling 561.204.5687. Anybody up for a few good chukkers? 🙂

The Puppy Mill Project is proud to be honoring the “Mothers in the Mills” at their annual fundraiser on May 11th at John Barleycorn River North (149 W. Kinzie) from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The evening will raise awareness about the cruel and inhumane conditions that dogs endure in puppy mills. Chicago fan-favorite band, Out of Control, will perform, a buffet dinner will be served, and guests will enjoy a silent auction and live raffle. This benefit is held annually on Mother’s Day weekend to honor and bring attention to all female (mother) dogs held captive in the mills who are forced to breed until they are no longer profitable to the breeder. The mission of TPMP is to educate the public about puppy mills, while advocating for legislative reform and facilitating the rescue of mill dogs. “The proceeds from the Mothers in The Mills benefit will
educate and expose the truth about this cruel and inhumane industry that people are unknowingly supporting when purchasing pets through pet shops, the internet and newspaper ads,” says founder Cari Meyers. “We will never stop fighting for the freedom of the mill dogs.” I wish them the best of luck. Tickets are $100 per person ($125 at the door) and can be purchased here.

About Face Theatre celebrates its 17th year with a three-ring party of entertainment at the Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus
on April 26th beginning at 8 p.m. (For those interested, a Ringmaster’s VIP cocktail party begins at 7 p.m.) AFT’s premier fundraiser, hosted by About Face board members Benjamin Sprunger and Billy Lullo, combines the surprising delights of the Big Top with
the inspired grandeur of this year’s venue, Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood). For tickets ($135) and more info, please visit aboutfacetheatre.com or call 773.784.8565.

Don’t miss “Hats Off to Girls We Love,” a tea and fashion presentation hosted by the dynamic Sarah Wood benefitting the Wood Family Foundation on April 27th at 2 p.m. at Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Author Cynthia Bardes will be a special guest. Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for kids up to age 12. For more info, please click here or call 312-924-9234. (And I can’t WAIT to tell you what Sarah and Kerry are planning for August! OMG! They are both heroes at giving back! 🙂

Thanks so much to WGN-TV for having me on to discuss my FIVE top event picks for April! I won’t tell but hope you’ll watch it here! Thanks to my sweet friend Marissa Rudman for this clip – just love her!

Don’t miss the latest edition of A Perfect Event’s E-Mag – Debi Lilly has done it again assembling the best of the best to contribute to her beyond beautiful magazine! I’m so proud to have an
article (“Things Our Mothers Taught Us”) included! This Mother’s Day feature offers words of wisdom from the mothers of comedian Tom Dreesen,
philanthropist and football star Israel Idonije, television star/author/designer Nate Berkus, super chef Art Smith, shoe god Brian Atwood and media darling Val Warner. I’m not one bit surprised why these special people became who they are – it’s advice everyone can use! Congrats to contributors Amanda Puck, Eric Himel, Matt Savage, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Elaina Vazquez and Corey Amaro, among others. ALL great reads here (my article appears on pages 26 & 27)! And a special thanks
to friend/artist Rosemary Fanti for this wonderful image of my mom Elsa Stott and me in South Beach where some of our best memories happened! She was my best friend. 🙂 (Check out more pics here!)

And, last but not least, I was so thrilled to be interviewed on Vocalo/NPR radio by Shantell Jamison for her (ahem) “Wise Woman of the Week” segment…I know, I know. Hear it here, if you want!

Hope you all have spring in your hearts even if it isn’t here in reality and I hope you enjoy this week’s Candid Candace!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to the Peninsula Chicago and Greg Hyder on the fabulous party held in honor of Conde Nast Traveler’s special April feature, “The Grand Tour of Asia.” As always, it was a perfect event! (Want to see more pics? Just click here!)

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Tagged as 4 Miles 2 Memphis, 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, A Perfect Event’s E-Mag, ABC-7, About Face Theatre, Academy of Country Music, Alderman Harry Osterman, Alderman Patrick O’Connor, Alexis Wineman, Amanda Puck, American Idol, American Pickers, Andre Johnson, Andrea Zopp, Ann Hampton Calloway, Antonio Sabato Jr., Aristotle Loumis, Aziza Lisa, Benjamin Cottrell, Benjamin Springer, Billy Lullo, Blue Masque Ball, Bo Derek, Bob Mariano, Boeing Corporation, Brian Atwood, Brooke Eden, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Candid Concert Opera Company, Cari Meyers, Carrie Lannon, Chef Art Smith, Cheryl Burton, Chicago Bears, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago Soul Centric, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Urban League, Chris Brown, Chris Laurita, Christos Garkinos, City Escape Garden Center & Design Studio, Coca-Cola, Coco Rocha, Colette Davis, Committeewoman Carol Ronen, Common, Common Ground Foundation’s Summer Youth Camp, Common Ground Gala, Conde Nast Traveler, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Constantine Maroulis, Cool, Cool & Dre, Corey Amaro, Cork Catering and Special Events, Cynthia Bardes, Dance Magazine, Danielle Colby, David Stephens, Debi Lilly, Decades, Derek Dudley, Derrius Quarles, Devyn Abdullah, Diana Palomar, Diane Primo, DJ John Grammatis, Doug Clerget, Dreamers and Believers Mentoring Program, Dukes of Melrose, Dusty Stemer, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Ed Warm, Edgewater Development Corp., Edith Piaf, Elaina Vasquez, elda de la rosa, Ellison Sunglasses, Elsa Stott, Eric Himel, Evangeline Goutelas, Everett Rand, FloRida, Gabby Douglas, Generation Rescue, George McRae Trio, Giordano Dance Chicago, Grammy Awards, Greek American Foundation, Greg Hyder, Gus Giordano, Hard Rock Hotel, Harry Belafonte, Hats Off to Girls We Love, Heather Frisby, Hennessy V.S, Humberto Cruz, Ian Makin, International Polo Club, Israel Idonije, Jacqueline Laurita, James A. Bell, Jean Antoniou, Jeanne Sparrow, Jekyll & Hyde, Jenny McCarthy, Jim Reynolds, Joe’s Bar on Weed St., Jordan Stemer, Juanita Jordan, Jun Nagano, Just Class Jewelry, Karolina Kurkova, Kathy Burke, La Belleza de Cuba, La Vie en Rose, Lamman Rucker, Lauren Holly, Le’Moustache, Lee Greenwood, Les Coney, LH Couture, Liz Calloway, Liz Imperio, Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Loop Capital, Madi Wolf, Magic Johnson Enterprises, Marc Brooks, Marisa Buchheit, Marissa Rudman, Marsha Brenner, Matt Savage, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Melody Spann Cooper, Mesirow Financial, Michele Doyle, Michelle Releford, MillionDollar$cholar, Minister Blaine Moulton, Miss America, Miss Heart Illinois 2013, Modern Vintage Chicago, Moira Tuffy, Molly Sloat, Nan Giordano, Nancy Meyerson, Naomi Campbell, NBC 5, Neiman Marcus Northbrook, Nigel Barker, Night Heist, Nina Mariano, NPR, Out of Control, Pam Crutchfield, Patricia Gillman, Paula Fasseas, Peninsula Hotel, People’s Choice Awards, Pete Doyle, Picasso and Chicago, Puppy Mill Project, Quintin Primo, Randolph Street Market, Randolph Tovar, Real Housewives of New Jersey, Rescue Our Angels, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Sally Schwartz, Sarah Wood, Senator Heather Steans, Shantell Jamison, Shari Duffy, Splash, Spring Awakening Fashion Show, State Rep Kelly Cassidy, Stix & Roses, StyleUp Girl Shoes, Susanna Negovan, Sylvia Perez, Tamara Brown, Tasia June Travlos, TCW Magazine, Terri Mariano, The Bachelorette, The Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago, The Grand Tour of Asia, Things Our Mothers Taught Us, Tim Rand, Tom Dreesen, Tom Negovan, Toni Canada, Tracy Tarantino, Tracy Travlos, Tres Haute Chic, Ulta, USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship, Val Warner, Vanoy Jordan Enterprises, Veuve Clicquot, Vocalo, Watch312.com, WCIU, WGN-TV, Wise Woman of the Week, Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus, Wood Family Foundation, WVON, X Games, You & Me This Morning, ZZAZZ Productions

January 18, 2013 · 9:07 am

A MEMORY-MAKING YEAR: THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND PARTIES OF 2012

…PLUS A NOT-2-B MISSED FAMILY VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY, CHARITY POKER TOURNEY, PLAYBOY LEGEND OPENS PHOTO STUDIO, RANDOLPH STREET MARKET MAGIC, DRIVING FASHION FORWARD, WATCH312 HAS A NEW SISTER, AH CHOO FOR KATHLEEN & JOFFREY BALLET, MAKING MUSIC AT THE VISUAL SOUND AWARDS, ELYSABETH/RESTAURANTS/CHEFS ON HUFFPO, WRISTWISHES MAKE FASHION FUN FOR CHARITY, WHO’S THE NEW HONOREE FOR THE STANLEY PAUL FOUNDATION/AIBI?, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

January is a time for reflection and appreciating the memories of your past while anticipating those of the future. This year has included so many highlights that I don’t know where to begin but let me first say, I so appreciate your support during these past four years of Candid Candace! My first blog, written on August 25, 2008, was a labor of love and remains so to this day. It’s a privilege and a thrill for me to cover so many great events and
happenings that go on in this wonderful city as well as so many dynamic Chicagoans who do so much good for so many. Please stay tuned for some exciting changes that I hope you will like on Candid Candace and NOW, take a look at some of my favorite photos from 2012 and the people, places and events that inspired me this year here!

Mark your calendars for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation’s 6th Annual Be My Valentine Family Event on February 10th. Cupid will fill our hearts once again at this fun-filled event at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Hotel, located at 160 E. Pearson St., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The afternoon will include a brunch buffet, kiddie’s Valentine activities, DJs and dancing, a performance by actors from the Zebra and Lion from the Emmy Award-winning television show Green Screen Adventures, and a special concert by award-winning
children’s musician Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players. Lighting up the room “pink” will be Justin Jacobson and Platinum Events. Other activities will include sweet treat decorating and tips from Sweet Mandy B’s, ELTIF Designs bead bar for all jewelry making enthusiasts, makeovers from Sweet and Sassy, an Abt Electronics video arcade room, and family fun entertainment from Harris Kal Productions. Guests will
also have a chance to win fabulous prizes from the silent auction and raffle. This event will be co-chaired by Julie Lampert and Jennifer Meyers, with proceeds benefitting the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation. Tickets are $85 for adults and $65 for children in advance or $100 for adults and $80 for children at the door. Tickets are available by ordering online at www.lynnsage.org or calling 312-926-7133.

Time to “ante up” and put on your best poker face for the 8th Annual Children’s Oncology Services, Inc. Charity Poker Championship on February 7th at the River East Art Center, located at 435 E. Illinois. Dan Bernstein from WSCR “The Score” (AM 670) will return as emcee for this No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em tournament. Players of all skill levels will compete for more than $15K in prizes including the coveted grand prize to compete at the 2013 World Series of Poker’s Main Event in Las Vegas (a $10K value) and other prizes! So please, bring your best card skills to
help offer camp experiences and educational programs for children with cancer. Not a card shark? Then just come for the party that includes an open bar and a buffet provided by Marcello’s Father & Son Restaurant. (They also happen to have the BEST broasted chicken in the world!) For more info, please visit www.onestepcamp.org or call 312.924.4220.

Chicago Vintage Market pioneer Sally Schwartz is thrilled to announce Randolph Street Market’s second annual Wonderful Winter Markets return in February and March, bringing vintage aficionados some of the best winter shopping events in Chicago. The February show (February 2nd and 3rd) will focus on "Passions & Vanities," highlighting gems, couture, art, antiques and
other endearing vices with chili, cold beer & a Super Bowl big screen TV lounge! Something for everyone! Katya & the Nude Sketch Salon returns so come and get immortalized in your own charcoal drawing. It’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for you and the love of your life! As always, there will be free downtown furniture deliveries and a re-upholstery station along with the addition of several Chicago-based foodie vendors and relaxation specialists to treat guests to the finer things in life! There will be 90+ vendors at each market selling art, antiques, fashion, knick-knacks, furniture and more. Show times are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on February 2nd and
3rd and March 23rd and 24th at Plumber’s Hall, located at 1340 W. Washington St. Discounted tickets ($8) are available in advance and general admission ($10), students with ID ($3 or $5) are available at the gate. Children 12 and under free. For tickets and more info, visit randolphstreetmarket.com. This is my favorite market in town…see YOU there! (Loved seeing Randolph Street Market featured on PBS’ “Market Warriors” recently, too!)

Autohaus on Edens has partnered with the Columbia College Fashion Department to host Launch 2013: Driving Fashion Forward on March 10th. This spring fashion preview event will feature some of the North Shore’s finest boutiques along with a student design competition. The show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions, will spotlight 2013 spring fashions and trends from Shelle Jewelers, Frances Heffernan and Jolie Femme among many others. The lucky winner of the student design competition will receive a $5K scholarship (courtesy of Autohaus on Edens) to put toward a semester in school OR to launch their own collection! An exciting raffle will also offer a lucky guest the opportunity to win a getaway to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week complete with travel, lodging and VIP fashion show tickets!!! For event tickets ($75 or VIP with reserved runway seating for $100) and more info, please click here!

I’m so excited to share some exciting news from Robert Mills, founder of Chicago’s online network (and the home of my show “Candid Candace Chicago”), Watch312.com: Bob has expanded his reach to Chicago’s hot sister city – MIAMI – so please help me welcome Watch305.com! With eight shows, Watch 305.com is your source for everything Miami! On their shows, you'll learn survival skills from Miami
natives, search for the best burger in town, get caught up in shameless hidden camera pranks, gain in-depth looks into the lives of athletes, acquire sex tips from professional sex therapists and witness a city ruled by artists, comedians, fashionistas and night crawlers. Because a lot of their content will be
created on a live video kiosk located in Mary Brickell Village, anyone can become part of the interactive experience by answering trivia questions and winning prizes. Producer Andres Rovira says, “Miami is an animal of a city and it is our job to tell its stories. From the creative depths of the Art District, to the fist-pounding nightlife of South Beach, there's a show about almost everything, for almost anyone. So pick a show, and become part of the fun, here in The Magic City.” Now you’ll get a sneak peek into the BEST of TWO cities! Take a look and become a fan, too!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?embedCode=80MXRxNjocb_sDFvDd0EiG7mLT1QD6B8&height=360&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=640&deepLinkEmbedCode=80MXRxNjocb_sDFvDd0EiG7mLT1QD6B8

And don’t miss all of MY New Year’s Eve party fun on Watch312.com below!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?embedCode=NpZW45ODr7scXYhNe-gk_TG2EO99JWru&height=326&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=490&deepLinkEmbedCode=NpZW45ODr7scXYhNe-gk_TG2EO99JWru

More than 400 guests gathered for the inaugural Visual Sound Awards to recognize marketing and advertising campaigns, TV shows and films that have utilized music in the most successful and creative ways to drive value for Music Dealers’ global brand and entertainment partners, while
showcasing the profound impact these projects have had on the emerging artists whose music is featured in the campaigns. The evening kicked off with an awards ceremony, during which The Visual Sound Awards winners were announced, and continued into the night with an after party featuring live performances by Music Dealers artists Metis, Greg Corner of Kill Hannah, Ghosthouse and Dot Dot Dot that brought down the house. Music Dealers clients change
emerging musicians lives every day. Behind all of these Visual Sound Awards
nominees and winners – be it a web or TV advertisement, or even an experiential activation – are real artists, whose life’s passion is creating music. And because Music Dealers clients chose to enhance their campaigns with music produced by these artists, they have been able to fund national tours, record new albums and build their professional teams – propelling their careers to the next level, all with the money generated from these placements. In his Visual Sound Award acceptance speech, Music Dealers artist and the new sound of Coke Zero's "Make It Possible" global ad campaign, Metis, said "The song we created with Music Dealers for the Coke Zero
campaign was truly a catalyst that catapulted my music career. It led to multiple record deal offers and so many other opportunities, and it all started with Music Dealers
believing in us from an early stage and Coke giving us the global platform." Check out all of the Visual Sound Awards winning campaigns here! And congrats to ALL! (To see ALL event pics, pleases click here!)

Please join new Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board member and uber-PR specialist Kathleen Henson (Henson Consulting) on January 31st when she hosts a very fashionable fete at “her favorite place to shop on Oak Street” – Jimmy Choo. Enjoy a “first look”
at Choo’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection with a portion of the proceeds from the evening’s event going to the Women’s Board of the Joffrey Ballet. You can also head over there before 1/31 and still support the Joffrey through a pre-sale…just be sure to mention the Joffrey! There’s truly no better incentive to buy a new pair of shoes (or two or three!) to go with your spring gala gowns. (The Joffrey Spring Gala is April 19th.) You can RSVP directly to the store at Chicago@JimmyChoo.com.

Have you ever wanted to have your photo taken by a PLAYBOY LEGEND? Well, now’s your chance: Former Executive Editor & Publisher of Playboy Special Editions Jeff Cohen has just opened Jeff Cohen Creative, a photography, design and consulting studio in the newly-revitalized Ravinia
District of Highland Park. Located on the main thoroughfare at 485 Roger Williams Ave., Jeff is down the street from Billy Corgan's Madame ZuZu's Tea House, Merlo's fabulous Italian eatery and next door to Abigail's American Bistro. With a string of black and white portrait photos hung on a clothesline in the studio window, he’s already
attracting a lot of attention and for Valentine’s Day, he is launching a couples portrait promotion. Jeff says, “So many households have family photos with everyone together but very few have just mom and dad sans kids. So here's a chance for Mr. and Mrs. or Mr. and Mr. or Mrs. and Mrs., etc. to do something special for each other.” Jeff will work together with each twosome in the studio and deliver a fun, candid and personal black and white portrait.
(Gift certificates are available.) And for his senior customers, he has a special deal if they combine their ages (i.e., for every year that total is over 120, he’ll reduce the portrait price by $1 so a 65-year-old woman with her 70-year-old partner knocks the price down by $15). For more information and/or to schedule a session, please contact jeffcohencreative@gmail.com or call 847.347-2509. You’ll be glad you did! I can vouch for Jeff since we have done many photo sessions together for Playboy that, sadly, I can’t share here! 😉

What a great article in the Huffington Post by author/director/producer extraordinaire, Elysabeth Alfano! Loved the idea “Chicago is Known for its Fantastic Food: 19 Creatives Name Their Favorite Restaurants.” Get great restaurant and chef recommendations from Chicagoans who include SNL’s Nora Dunn, actress Susan Messing, musician Dennis de Young, NPR’s Peter Sagal,
classical musician George Lepauw, Goodman Theatre’s Robert Falls, artist Ellen Sandor, MCA’s Naomi Beckwith and Marilyn and Larry Fields, XRT’s Lin Brehmer, rocker Jon Langford, Chicago Children’s Choir’s Josephine Lee, author Scott Turow, Expo Chicago’s Tony Karman and MOI among others! Thanks so much for including me and keep up the great work, Elysabeth!!!

Mark your calendars NOW for the 7th Chicago World Festival benefitting the 10th anniversary of Common Threads! Join founders Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro along with celebrity chefs from around the world on March
4th at Soldier Field! I’m thrilled to be co-chairing this beloved event with dynamos Jon Harris (Hillshire) and Mindy Mackenzie (Beam Global)! Tickets start at $250; for more info, please click here!

I’ve always loved wearing multiple bracelets as a style statement and am so honored that Wrist Wishes created a Candid Candace bracelet that will support some of my favorite organizations that include PAWS Chicago, Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Children’s, the Service Club of Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet and Young at Heart Pet Rescue. These charming
bracelets were created by Nicole LaCross and were inspired by her mom who had been diagnosed with cancer and was intended to bring “shining little glimmers of hope into the lives of all who wrap them around their wrists.” Wrist Wishes retail for $10 each with $2 from every purchase going directly to the charity that is represented by your bracelet. (There are many Chicago charities to choose from.) Please check them out here and be stylish AND supportive!

And last but not least, I’m so thrilled to be the 2013 Honoree for the Stanley Paul Foundation/Apparel Industry Board’s (AIBI) fundraiser at the Casino on April 24th! It will be a fun night with friends and I hope you can join me…I AM SO EXCITED! For tickets ($200), please email aibi@aibi.com or call
312.836.1041. The evening will benefit The Stanley Paul – Raelene Mittelman Fashion Design Scholarship Fund which was established in 1990 by Stanley Paul in honor of his sister, Raelene Mittelman. She was a great lover of fashion and had a strong belief that we must aid the future of fashion by aiding in the education of its students. I am SO honored and hope you can come!

Welcome to 2013! I hope this year turns out to be your best one yet and I hope your plans include reading Candid Candace!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. This is one of my favorite looks from the Golden Globes! Jessica Alba was FLAWLESS from head to toe – loved the Oscar gown, the $5.8 mil worth of
Harry Winston jewels and the super-cool feathered Roger Vivier clutch! And wait…was she wearing CAMP Cosmetics' CANDID CANDACE LIPSTICK? (Also, did you notice that coral is poised to be THE hottest color for spring!? Stay ahead of the trend and buy it here now!)

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August 23, 2012 · 11:24 am

GLAMORAMA’S FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA BENEFITS RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE!

…PLUS HOTEL LINCOLN’S GRAND OPENING, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S GARDEN PARTY, WATCH312.COM’S GLAMORAMA VIDEO COVERAGE, CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW PARTIES, “OUT IN THE PARK” AT SIX FLAGS, TUESDAY WANTS YOU AT PAWS CHICAGO, MOVE OVER REVLON – CAMP IS COMING AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a cornucopia of exciting visuals, fabulous fashions, glamazon models, great people watching and the best after-party around: Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama wowed the crowds again this year at the Harris Theater on August 10th. This new venue provided a different feel to the show with a smaller stage, which (thankfully!) didn’t affect the quality or excitement level in the least and the Rooftop at Millennium Park proved to be one of the BEST after-party venues thus far! The show (expertly produced by Myron Johnson), and themed “The British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now,” opened with Macy’s I Heart Radio contest winners, Meg & Liz. These two 19-year-old fraternal twins from Nashville became YouTube sensations when their cover songs and original pop anthems racked up 160 million views. Their latest hit, “Are You Happy Now?” an anti-bullying song, features Meg’s soulful acoustic guitar alongside her sister Liz’s soaring vocals. The chart topping duo Karmin also performed – they too shot to fame through their collection of YouTube cover songs, only theirs featured the rapid fire rapping of Amy Heidemann alongside her musician/singer/fiancé, Nick Noonan. They ignited the web when they posted a cover of Chris Brown’s “Look at Me Now” on YouTube; the clip went viral, Ellen Degeneres called and the rest is history! (They even had the honor of introducing this year’s Ronald McDonald Host Family, Janae McVey, and her mom, LaTressa.) Headliner Robin Thicke taught himself to play piano at the age of 12 and by 21, had written and produced songs on over 20 gold and platinum albums for Michael Jackson, Marc Anthony, Pink, Christina Aguilera and others. Macy’s fall fashions featured collections from Tommy Hilfiger, Jean Paul Gaultier, Material Girl, Sean John, Bar III, Rachel Roy and Donna Karan; always a crowd pleaser, the Diesel underwear segment did NOT disappoint this year with hunky male models sporting Beefeater hats, police helmets and billy clubs, House of Lords wigs and, of course, underwe
ar! The segment opened with the guys lined up atop a London bus, tearing off their shirts and marching down stairs towards the appreciative audience. The young British Invasion dancers included some favorites from last year like Bailey Munoz (aka BailRok), who Cee-Lo Green famously lifted over his head in last year’s finale. The after-party on the Rooftop of Millennium Park was over-the-top spectacular with British touches everywhere you looked. The “Windsor Terrace’s” champagne lounge featured the “Queen’s jewels” in a Lucite case while the “Piccadilly Circus” section offered Lancome makeup touchups and a photo booth with props. Delicious food was everywhere you looked with specialty drinks offered at all 18 Patron bars! Attendees included Andrea Schwartz with Dr. Steven Stryker, Martine Reardon, Robin Reibel, Jeff Ganette, Doug Porter, Christina Thomas, Paul Heubener, Kamal Bosamia, Fabrice Calmels, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Sheila Musolino, David Sanchez, Rachel Schwanz, Corinne Melchior, Gretchen Klotz, Billy Dec, Ken Norgan, Jose Conforme, Marcus Riley, Nicole Townsend, Marco Foster, Laura Schwartz, Justin Jacobson, Dori Wilson, Sherren Leigh, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Toni Canada, Gale Gottlieb, Carol Gibson, Camille Britton, Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser, Joan Colmar, Kathleen Henson, Michelle Durpetti, Stephanie Kroll, Heather Ingram, Kathy O’Malley, Katie Cahnmann, Quenten Schumacher, Katie McLenaghan, John Bourgeois, Donna Pecci, Marcellas Reynolds, Samantha Lurie, Stephanie Teymourian, Sara Jahn, Ami York, Joanne Lee Paul, Tee Lam Dubois, Marketa Kazdova and Sadhna and Narmda Kumar. All of the dancers, models and performers travel to all four cities – Minneapolis, Chicago, L.A. and San Francisco. For the fourth year, Glamorama benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. To date, this event has raised more than $750K for this charity to support the building of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House which officially opened on June 26th! During the past 13 years, this event has raised more than $2 million for Chicagoland charities. See below for an incredible Watch312.com video documenting this historic event! (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr.)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=640&height=360&embedCode=9tdTJwNTqrT3sRVib6ovXa5x86KyMdQ5&videoPcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

Chicago's newest boutique hotel, Hotel Lincoln, hosted its official Grand Opening Party at 1816 N. Clark on Thursday, August 16th. Hundreds of locals and hotel guests partied on three floors including the J. Parker Rooftop, which has one of the best views in the city. Looking out over Lincoln Park, the zoo and lagoons with the lake beyond is a sight not to be missed! Even Mary Todd and Abe Lincoln were on hand to greet guests as they entered. Neon wristbands allowed party-goers all-access into this charming hotel located at the crossroads of Lincoln, Clark and Wells. Conveniently located near the Lincoln Park Zoo, Green City Market, Second City and Steppenwolf Theatre Company, this 12-story hotel has 184 rooms that begin reasonably at $179 a night. Dining specials can even be ordered up from restaurant hotspot, Perennial Virant, whose beloved food and beverage director Jason Dohmann was on hand on this special night greeting guests with a smile and a hug. Congrats to BOKA Group restaurant owners Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz and Joie de Vivre Hotel Group for this terrific addition to the neighborhood. Guests seen on the scene included Marlaine Selip, Cindy Patrasso, Emerald-Jane Hunter and Ji Suk Yi from “Windy City Live,” Andrea Schwartz, Scott Bobek, Julianne Glatz, the Landon twins, Laura Schwartz, Charley Jordan, Jennifer Sutton, Deborah Chapman, Lesley Prizant Goodman, Alli Turner, Luis Gomez, Patrick Parkey and Mitchell Obstfeld. I'm so happy to see that horrible "Days Inn" sign disappear! For more info on Hotel Lincoln, please click here!! (P.S. The Hotel Lincoln is pet-friendly AND charitable, with a $1 donation per room being donated to PAWS Chicago – more than $4,800 has been donated to date, thanks to Deborah Chapman!) Check out more fun party pics here!

Lincoln Park Zoo’s second annual Wine & Wildflowers Garden Party was a casually elegant affair in the zoo’s gardens with almost 350 people enjoying this August 1st event that included a wine tasting, mingling and leisurely strolls through the pristine grounds of this urban oasis. Strains of bluegrass music from the Bubbly Creek Bluegrass Band, which could be heard over the Hope B. McCormick swan pond, delighted attendees who feasted on Southern favorites including an upscale selection of brisket and pork barbecue bites from Tigerlily Events, deviled eggs topped with smoky bacon and chicken salad tartlettes. Wine stations included selections from sponsors Apothic Wines, Martin Codax, William Hill Estate Winery and Wirtz Beverage Illinois. Tours throughout the night highlighted striking garden displays of purple fall anemone, tardiva hydrangeas and dinner plate hibiscus. Senior VP of Facilities Troy Baresel and Director of Horticulture Brian Houck gave guests an exclusive sneak peek at what lies ahead for the Gardens at Lincoln Park Zoo. Their aim is to create a garden for all seasons that preserves the historic character of the Zoo’s grounds. Founded in 1868, our zoo is one of the country’s only free, privately-managed zoos. (Click here to view more pics!)

The Chicago Air & Water Show is one of my favorite events every summer – Chuck and I always love seeing the rehearsals the day before when the planes fly right over our deck and terrify the Chihuahuas! And although much is written about the show itself, I love the viewing parties thrown across the city to celebrate! I know the newly opened Hotel Lincoln hosted an event as did friends Michael Wilkie and Kristina and Mike McGrath. Wilkie's penthouse home – high atop 1500 N. Lake Shore – is, in my opinion, the best perch from which to view these amazing feats of daring since the planes are right at eye level from the 24th floor. His beautiful home was formerly owned by an heir of Morton Salt so you can imagine the grandeur. Kristina and Mike McGrath's home holds a special sense of place for me since they live at the Palmolive Building, formerly Playboy headquarters. Their h
ome on the 22nd floor was formerly the editorial department where I spent a lot of my time in earlier years so I felt right at home in their luxurious space with two grand outdoor patios…one with a putting green! Partygoers included Sonya Jackson, Korinna Isselhardt (Kristina's darling twin sis), Hazel and Warren Barr, Lynn and John McMahan, Michaela and Dick Parrillo, Susanna Negovan, Sherrill and John Bodine, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Uslan, Gayle and Jim Anthony, Sherren Leigh, Sugar Rautbord, Rebecca Besser, Toni and Rick Canada and Julee White. A gorgeous lakefront, world-class aerial displays and great friends to see it all with – Chicago is MY kind of town! (To see all party pics, please click here!)

I’ve been fortunate to have attended quite a few unique events in my time but this is one clever idea for a party! An all new private LGBT event benefitting TPAN will feature rides, live music and a party-like atmosphere: “Out in the Park” will be at Six Flags Great America on Saturday, September 8th from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. The park will be closed to the general public for this event, where more than 3,000 guests are expected to attend. Attendees will enjoy DJs Matthew Harvat and Phil DaBeatz, who will be spinning simultaneously as a team. A limited number of bus tickets will be available departing from Uptown on Montrose Avenue, one block west of Broadway. Buses will depart at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., all returning at 1 a.m. Tickets in advance are $35, which includes admission to the park all day long, free parking and admission to this private event. (For tickets, visit sixflags.com using promo code OUT2012 and for bus ticket info, please visit gaysixflagschicago.com or call 773.878.5323.)

Congrats to the students of the Illinois Center for Broadcasting, who donated their time and efforts for Congressman Danny Davis’ recent Back to School Parade & Picnic. Twelve students happily assisted seniors by serving meals, helping them on and off of buses and with games. The kids gave back to the community in the spirit that won ICB the 2012 ACCSC Award (Accrediting Commission Career Schools & Colleges) that OICB Prez Bob Mills will be receiving in San Diego this September. They beat out more than 1,400 schools and 250,000 college kids in garnering this award so congrats to the students and to ICB on this major honor!

Friends for the Cure is a dynamic group of associates who have been working together since 2003 to help raise money for research to cure diabetes. The founder, Margery Teller (one of Crain’s “100 Most Influential Women”), will bring together more than 700 celebrants on Saturday, September 15th from 7 p.m. until midnight at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. The night will include strolling musicians, performing artists, DJs and an extensive silent auction that will include a pair of weekend stays at the Langham Hotels in Boston and Pasadena, among many other exciting items. Tickets are $25 each or five for $100. (To purchase tickets, please visit www.diabetes.org/friends.)

I’m sad to report that Chicago Beach Polo won’t be returning to North Avenue Beach this year but the good news for polo buffs is that it is alive and well in Oak Brook! Last Sunday was the first of four polo events this year. Remaining dates are August 26th, September 2nd and September 9th and games are at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more info, please visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com.

Social Gravity, a network connecting people and businesses that share common causes and goals with the nonprofits they support, will be hosting a networking and fundraising happy hour on Friday, August 24th, at the Redhead Piano Bar, located at 16 W. Ontario St. from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Social Gravity founder Randy Shipley explains, “This event will raise money for MyPlea.org, an innovative new online charitable organization dedicated to helping those in need on an individual case by case basis.” (Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more info, please contact Sarah Vargo via phone at 224.622.1759 or email at sarah@maven-chicago.com.)

My favorite market, Randolph Street Market, returns to 1340 W. Washington on August 25th and 26th! America’s largest and liveliest urban antiques market offers more than eight acres of indoor and outdoor shopping plus some of the best food vendors in Chicago! It also offers free downtown furniture deliveries, a trolley from Water Tower Place and is very pet-friendly! Hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Remember, early Saturday shopping will benefit Chicago House! (For more info, please click here.)

If you’re in the market for a 10-month-old Pointer pup, read no further and get over to PAWS Chicago NOW! Tuesday is an affectionate girl who loves to fetch and is anxious to bring so much life and energy to her new family! She is good on leash and walks and would probably make a great running partner, too! She sits on command and will need lots of exercise, structure, love and training. If you think you qualify for this bundle of love, contact Sarah Ahlberg at sahlberg@PawsChicago.org.

It came out of the blue: I didn’t even know the guy and had never heard of Camp Cosmetics but when owner Michael Perich contacted me about creating my own lipstick, I had dreams of Elizabeth Taylor and her Diamonds fragrance! Well, a dream for sure but what fun to have my own special coral color named “Candid Candace” and, best of all, getting to donate a portion of the proceeds to PAWS Chicago! He is a dedicated makeup artist with a salon filled with like-minded professionals who believe in their slogan “Women are beautiful…we make them pretty.” My signature color sells for $19.50 and can be ordered by phoning Camp Cosmetics at 630.545.0240 or visiting the store at 480A N. Main St. in Glen Ellyn. I am sooooo excited! 🙂 (Photo courtesy of Amie Hana.)

Thanks for being here and I hope to see you next week – same time, same place! I hope you’re enjoying this glorious weather that makes Chicago the most delightful city in the world!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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July 25, 2012 · 10:28 am

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BALL’S BIG SURPRISE: THE VILLAGE PEOPLE!

…PLUS PAWS-ITIVELY BEACHY, FIELD MUSEUM IS WILD ABOUT HARRY, THE DARK KNIGHT'S CHICAGO PREMIERE, A ST. TROPEZ CHIC DESIGNER, WHITE HOUSE HONORS FOR PAUL, A GIANT NY BOOK LAUNCH, TOM STREHLE’S PERFECT PITCH, A SPECIAL 50TH AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo hosted its 35th annual Zoo Ball in one of my favorite venues! As 1,000 black-tie clad guests entered the zoo grounds through the East Gate, they were greeted by more than 30,000 feet of dramatic sweeping tents. Earlier in the day, one of the tents came down due to heavy rain but all was well by the time the event began. During the cocktail reception across from the Kovler Lion House, one could hear the big cats roaring their approval as guests raised funds to keep them supplied with kitty food. The Feed a Friend Program offered supporters the opportunity to donate for various zoo animals and receive a corresponding stuffed animal to show their support. Levels included $100 to feed a gibbon family for three months all the way up to $15,000 to feed a gorilla family for a year. It was a great way to get guests involved in the zoo as well as raise funds. And for those who didn’t want to take the stuffed toys, they could be donated to Lurie Children’s Hospital which has a floor sponsored by the Zoo. Themed “The Great Catsby” and presented by Guggenheim (who underwrote the evening’s dinner in its entirety), the event was co-chaired by Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Polayes with Honorary Chair Anne Pramaggiore. Women’s Board President Abby Zanarini welcomed the crowd and thanked Guggenheim and J.N. Pritzker/Tawani Foundation/Pritzker Military Library for their continued support. She also acknowledged Barbara Higgins (Allstate), Anne Pramaggiore (ComEd), John Alexander (Chairman of the Board) and Kevin Bell (Zoo President and CEO). Event Creative’s Jeffrey Foster helped bring the chairs’ décor vision to life: An elegant Hampton’s vibe included masses of blue hydrangeas and twinkling chandeliers as well as a stage that resembled a white gate complete with hedge walls. Auction Chair Bridget Campbell arranged a vast array of silent auction items in the chic Leopard Lounge that included Andrea Bocelli box seats (sold for $5K), Master’s golf package (two passes for all four days sold for $19K), a one week stay at the Four Seasons Costa Rica (sold for $6K), a signed Joakim Noah jersey, Ryder Cup tickets and so much more! Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from J & L Catering that included mini Black Forest ham, gruyere and Dijon panini fingers; Maryland crab cakes; vegetable spring rolls; maple-glazed dates; and mini corn muffins with tomatillo-braised chicken. Following the reception, a recorded lion’s roar summoned guests into dinner. Against the musical backdrop of Rendezvous, guests enjoyed delicious tenderloin with caramelized shallots, fingerling potatoes and succotash and a dessert of strawberry shortcake, key lime tart with Michigan berries and chocolate ganache. The highlight of the evening came when surprise performers The Village People were introduced. As guests jammed the dance floor, this popular 1970’s disco group performed their hits “Macho Man” and “In the Navy.” They whipped the crowd into a frenzy with their closing number “YMCA” amid a sea of camera flashes. It was so exciting – how in the world they kept this a secret, I’ll never know! Seen on the scene were Barbara Higgins and Daniel Glynn, Tina Koegel, Wendy Krimins, William Holdeman, Paul Iacono, Sherren Leigh, Ken Norgan, Myra and John Reilly, Beth Levin and Marcus Lemonis, Vicki and Bill Hood, Kathy Brock and Doug Regan, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Janet and Rodger Owen, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Wendy Chronister and Peter Rogers, John Alexander, Ann and Blake Benjamin, Bridget and Matthew Campbell, Kimbra and Mark Walter, Holly and Peter Francis Geraci, Jeff Shea, Veronica Zepeda and Bob Loquercio, Mary Ann Young, Ami and Kevin Connolly, Donna and Michael Rigert, Cynthia Holbrook, Debra and Martin Beck, Susan Regenstein, Wendy and Steve Beard, Charlie Huebner, Tracey Benford, Joan Cusack, Jennifer and John Caruso and Deborah and Bruce Crown. At the close of the event, attendees received gift bags that contained John Derian glass mementos provided by Guggenheim, along with cool treats from Pinkberry and late-night slices from the Connie’s Pizza and Catering truck. Chauffeured courtesy cars – BMW 750i’s, to be precise – were stationed out front to whisk guests home…LOVED this! Proceeds from the ball ($1 million) will support the Women’s Board pledge to the Zoo’s Nature Boardwalk and will provide critical support to maintain this community landmark that is one of the last free zoos that's open every day in the nation! (Photos by Bob Carl, Violet Dominek, Julia Nash and Alain Miloti…click here for more!)

The night was PAWS-atively sensational at the 10th annual PAWS Chicago Beach party held at North Avenue Beach’s Castaways Boathouse on July 19th. With more than 400 guest and 100 dogs in attendance, this event raised $215,000 for the city’s largest no-kill humane society. Every partygoer received a colorful lei upon arrival at the summer’s largest pet-friendly social gathering co-chaired by Renata and Robert Block and Virginia Stafman. Once on deck, supporters enjoyed a lavish beach buffet courtesy of Stefani Catering that included hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, veggie burgers, salads, pizza, pretzels, ice cream, cookies and more fun food. The doggie buffet offered Swirlz “pupcakes” and Licks’ all natural liquid vitamin drinks as well as other treats. The evening’s signature cocktail, “PAWS on the Beach,” kept guests fueled for fun as they danced to the sounds of Spoken Four. The doggies and their owners were dressed in their best summer fashions with some sporting sunglasses, t-shirts, baseball caps and sundresses. And even though the night threatened rain, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of this loyal group of PAWS supporters. US99’s Lisa Dent, emcee and guest of honor, introduced PAWS founder/chair Paula Fasseas. “It’s great to see our community come together to help save the lives of homeless pets,” said Fasseas, who founded the organization in 1997. Volunteers were then introduced who presented rescue pups Hannah, Sponge, Mikey, Winslow and Clark to the crowd. The live auction packages included something for everyone including the highlight of the night, a VIP package from the Boss himself – Bruce Springsteen! This exciting auction prize included four VIP tickets to his September concert in Wrigley Field plus the opportunity to relax inside the VIP E Street Lounge before the show and his entire discography! Susan Clack bought this one-of-a-kind opportunity and said she might give it to her pregnant daughter. Veterinarian Dr. Tara Clack – Susan’s other daughter – was over the top with happiness. (Her darling boyfriend, Mark Bell, will most certainly approve!) Other auction items included the opportunity to have your pets featured as the official 2013 Beach Party logo. Last year’s winners, Judy and Howard Tullman, had their two dogs and two cats featured this year. Next year, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock’s furry family will grace the cover of the invite and all promo materials. (They paid $8K for this honor!) Lunch with Alpana Singh sold to Jimmy Meyer for $3,500, VIP Lollapalooza tickets sold to Cheri Lawrence for $5,000 and a luxury trip to Beverly Hills sold to Nancy Timmers for $5,500. All in all, the Beach Party raised more than $215,000 for PAWS Chicago. Their Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic will provide sterilizations for more than 18,000 pets of families in underserved communities. PAWS Chicago doesn’t receive any financial support from federal, state or local government agencies and is 100-percent reliant upon the community’s generosity. Charity Navigator, the country’s largest independent charity evaluator, has consistently awarded PAWS Chicago with its highest rating of four stars and honored them with national recognition due to their conscientious use of donor funds. Since PAWS’ inception, the number of homeless pets euthanized in the city each year has dropped by more than 50 percent from 42,561 to less than 18,000 in 2011. For more info, please visit www.PAWSChicago.org. Chuck and I own a PAWS dog (Rooney) and he couldn’t be sweeter! I know there’s a darling canine or feline there waiting for you, too! Stay tuned for Watch312.com coverage coming from this fun event! (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina.)

My FAVORITE vintage market, Randolph Street Market, returns July 28th and 29th to 1340 W. Randolph St.! I can’t wait to see its “Made in the Shade” summer theme which will include a Shade Shack Cabana filled with new independent artists and designers! And don’t forget to look up my favorite jewelry dealer, Ira Sheck: Many of my statement necklaces come from this eagle-eyed New Yorker! (Tell him Candace sent you!) Randolph Street Market is baaaackkkk!!! :)

The Field Museum’s Women’s Board hosted an Outreach Luncheon that featured the remarkable designs of A.V. Shinde, the renowned Indian jewelry designer for the house of legendary jeweler, Harry Winston. Co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, the program began with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers included Reema Keswani, an expert on Indian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde, and Anthony Ledru, the Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston, Inc. For 40 years, A.V. Shinde was the head designer for Harry Winston where he designed for the rich and famous including the Queen of England, Imelda Marcos and Liz Taylor, to name a few. In his earlier years, he designed for the maharajahs and maharanis of India. He died in 2003, at the age of 85. An Indian-themed luncheon followed the presentation in Stanley Field Hall where Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord was honored as this year’s Women in Science Fellow. For more info, please click here! (Photos by Steve Starr and Tonja Hall.)

Eloise Lapidus, daughter of famed designer Ted Lapidus, is bringing a fresh style and Parisian charm to her new line of apparel for BoBo House. Her keen sense of fashion was inspired by her father’s designs, which were worn and coveted by icons such as Brigitte Bardot, Alain Delon, Francoise Hardy and John Lennon. Eloise was greatly influenced by ‘60s and ‘70s bourgeoisie bohemians, or “Bobos” of Paris and St. Tropez. Take a look at her ultra-soft, luxurious basics fit for a relaxing day at Club 55 or on your yacht in the Port and see for yourselves!

How about some party news from the East Coast? A blow-out bash at NYC’s No. 8 hotspot celebrated NY Giants star Victor Cruz’ new memoir, “Out of the Blue.” “It may seem like I came out of the blue. But, my road was long, windy, full of hurdles, and even some dead ends. I lost family. I lost friends. I even lost my way. When I reached what felt like rock bottom, I realized I had a responsibility to everyone who believed in me and to kids, like me, who just needed a chance and something to believe in,” said Cruz in the epilogue of his new book. Famous for his amazing plays as a wide receiver as well as his post-touchdown salsa moves, Cruz partied like a rock star to celebrate his book launch alongside an array of celebs and friends who included rap music artist Wale, singer/actor Josh Groban, Eric Benet, “Empire Girls”stars Julissa Bermudez and Adrienne Bailon, DJ Kiss, DJ Clark Kent, Peter Rosenberg, K. Foxx, Joell Ortiz, Jeannette Jenkins and DJ M.O.S. (Photos by Jerritt Clark.)

Paul Hamann, President and CEO of The Night Ministry, was honored as a Champion of Change by the White House on July 12th as one of 13 individuals who have made a difference in the way their communities combat homelessness among children and youth. The Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s “Winning the Future” initiative and, each week, a different sector is highlighted. Founded in 1976, The Night Ministry is a Chicago-based nonprofit that provides housing, healthcare and human connection to members of the community who are struggling with poverty or homelessness. Congrats Paul on this prestigious honor and keep up the great work!

The PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation hosted its 10th annual gala to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of 40 outstanding Greek-American college students. The 2012 recipients were inducted as members of the Foundation’s prestigious PanHellenic Honors Society, which now has 227 members. Chairman and Founder of the PHSF Chris Tomaras welcomed more than 450 guests to this event that featured Academy Award winning filmmaker Alexander Payne as the Paradigm Recipient. WGN-TV’s film critic Dean Richards served as Master of Ceremonies while renowned Greek singer/songwriter Petros Gaitanos provided star quality entertainment during the evening’s festivities at the Merle Reskin Theater and Hilton Chicago. For more info about this passionate organization, please visit the Foundation's website. Congrats and good luck to this year’s deserving honorees!

Don’t miss this year’s Art in the Garden soiree on Saturday, August 11th, at La Paloma Gardens, located at 3622 Brookview Road in Rockford. (It’s worth the trip!) Hosted by longtime patron of the arts and passionate gardener Karen Harding along with Lon and Dick Behr and Sharyn and Joe Castrogiovanni, the party will include en plein a
ir cocktails and hors d’ouevres beginning at 6 p.m., a seated dinner by Jewell Events Catering at 7:30 p.m. and music provided by Clutch Cargo. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Rockford Art Museum, the event’s beneficiary. (For more info, please click here.)

Thanks to Margaret O’Connor for our first look at the blockbuster film, "The Dark Knight Rises"! The premiere was hosted by WGN at Navy Pier’s IMAX Theater with guests who included Chicago Bears players Charles Tillman (with his wife, Jackie) and Israel Idonije, former Bears players Anthony Adams and Jerry Azuma, Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan and JP Anderson, David Martinez (one of seven final remaining finalists on FOX’s “Master Chef”), Kelli Zink, Charley Jordan, DC Crenshaw, Katie and Jason McLenaghan and Jennifer Sutton. I also saw expert film critic/friend Geoff Burton, whose Cinema Trek movie reviews are always spot-on! He loved this movie and so did I! Thanks for this wonderful opportunity, Margaret!

Chuck and I were thrilled to participate in Kenmore LIVE’s recent taping of “Wisdom of the Ages.” This segment – which offered marriage advice from three couples ranging in age – is a prelude to their upcoming “Bridal Wave” series that will showcase all things wedding-related. Stay tuned for more info and congrats to Judy Faulkner Krause on another sure-to-be-a-hit internet show!

Beam’s VP of Human Resources Tom Strehle is a HUGE baseball fan! His collection of memorabilia would rival Cooperstown’s and, recently, he had the thrill of a lifetime throwing out the first pitch at the recent Cubs game against the Arizona Diamondbacks thanks to his good friend, Kerry Wood! He threw a perfect strike (or at least this is what he told me!) and I’m so happy for him. Not only is he a Cubs fan but his charitable contributions make him someone very, very special on top of it!

And finally, happy 50th anniversary to the loving and lovable couple, Angela and Paul Murges! Their darling only daughter, Giana Pisellini, along with Kathy O’Malley Piccone, planned a surprise party at Gibson’s that they’ll never forget! Even though Angela balked at going out on a Sunday, Giana finally convinced her by telling her they were just meeting Kathy for an anniversary drink. The hard work was getting Angela up the stairs, which Kathy did brilliantly by asking her to look at the balcony being planned for the second floor (which is true, BTW). Loving longtime friends included Skip Pope, Jerry Ranalli, Irv Solganik (the Judge), Leah and Jack Bowman, Barb and Gene Compari, Rich Gregorin, Giana’s cute husband Preston and us. Here’s to another 50, Ang and Paulie! Love you! (Check out more fun pics here!)

I’m really enjoying the dog days of summer and I hope you are, too! I also hope you’re checking out my Candid Candace column in Sunday’s Tribune Magazine! And remember to take a peek at the Tribune’s online column, too, since it contains a LOT more pics and an unedited version of my party coverage!

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