Tag Archives: Rick Bayless

December 5, 2022 · 4:32 pm

THE WHO, WHAT, WHERE AND WOW: PARTY PEOPLE IN THE WINDY CITY

The Christkind at the market at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville.

The Christkindlmarket is back and heralding the holidays like none other. The preview party, "Twas' the Night Before Christkindlmarket," was November 17. This

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza has been a staple there for 26 years.

was a great chance to really see the amazing gifts on offer up close and actually chat with the vendors. I spoke to Frank of Frank's Ornament House, he's been coming to the market for 25 years and absolutely loves it. He said, "I love seeing people come here from around the world and am proud to display my over 2,500 ornaments from my country [Germany]!" Another vendor's daughter had designed several of the ornaments on display which I thought was so charming. Everyone has a story and I wish I could've chatted with every one of them. Inside a special warming tent, guests could snap

Drinking gluhwein with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy the popular gluhwein (spiced, mulled wine) and an opening ceremony that introduced the Christkind, the face of the market, who welcomed visitors. A buffet dinner was offered in the heated Grand Timber Haus where many of the food items for sale in the market could be sampled. (The potato pancakes were out of this world.). Carolers and the Phenix Trio provided a festive soundtrack to the market. The following day, the market in Wrigleyville/ Gallagher Way opened and, for the first time, a skating rink was placed inside Wrigley Field! It was so cool to see the stadium used in this way. In the Christkindlmarket, also for the first time, a charming

Leila Schmidt, of Christkindlmarket, on the rink.

German

Inside Wrigley Field, who'd a thunk it?

carousel took center stage surrounded by 35+ vendors. And, again for the first time, a brand new market was launched in Aurora at RiverEdge Park. There's is something for everyone at each market and it is such a great way to celebrate the season. The Daley Plaza and Aurora markets will be in place through December 24 and the Gallagher Way market through December 31. (christkindlmarket.com)

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Rich Lane, Mindy Segal and Jaime Laurita with pups Woody and Ted.

The 21^st annual PAWS Fur Ball was held at the Drake Hotel with elegant guests clad in black-tie along with their four-legged friends dressed in equally resplendent

Hosts Jake Hamilton and Sylvia Perez (of Fox-32) served as co-emcees in the Gold Coast Room.

attire, think pups in tux! The event attracted over 600 guests who were scattered throughout the festively decorated spaces—Gold Coast Room and Grand Ballroom—with a cocktail reception held in the French Room. The evening consisted of a packed silent auction in the Walton Room and programs hosted by Natalie Bomke (of Fox-32) and

Twyler Jenkins with pup Nelson.

Fred (of 105.5 KISS FM) in the Ballroom and Sylvia Perez and Jake Hamilton (of Fox-32) in the Gold Coast Room. A dinner buffet was available to both 2-legged and 4-legged guests and a doggie spa was on-site to relieve any excitement-related stress. A raffle featured exquisite diamond earrings donated by longtime sponsor A. Marek Fine Jewelry, valued at over $10,000. A live auction offered signed guitars from

Natalie Bomke (emcee), daughter Olive and Ed Swiderski.

Dolly Parton and James Taylor, weekend getaways, spa packages and VIP experiences at some of the city’s hottest restaurants A showcase of adoptable pets helped find a home for Larry, a kitten who was adopted by honorary co-chairs Melissa and Michael Canning. An after-party with live music kept

Allie and Jon Harris (co-chair) with dog Winnie.

the party going until after midnight. Co-chairs for this year’s event were Nancy Timmers and Jon Harris. Supporters Amy and George Burin brought along their best dressed Yorkies, one of which, Addison, was experiencing his 14^th Fur Ball! PAWS Chicago is the Midwest’s largest No Kill humane organization and a national model in animal sheltering, committed to bringing an end to the killing of homeless cats and dogs. Since its founding in 1997, the organization has been able to reduce the number of homeless pets killed in the city by 91%. (PAWSChicago.org)

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Grant DePorter,Joanna DePorter, Sandy Golub, Lee Golub (photo by Kenny Kim).

The Green Tie Ball, benefiting Chicago Gateway Green, was held this year at the Chicago Sports Museum. Co-Chairs Joanna DePorter and Meg Newton Satherlie and Chicago Gateway Green Chairman Grant DePorter mixed and

RyanChiaverini Jerry Azumah Taylor Kinney_KennyKimPhoto

Triple threat! Ryan Chiaverini, Jerry Azumah and Taylor Kinney. (Kenny Kim Photo)

mingled with 900 guests throughout the night. Notable guests included gala emcees Cortney Hall and Chris Petlak, Taylor Kinney (Chicago Fire), former Bulls broadcaster Tom Dore, Jerry Azumah (Former Chicago Bear), Dutchie Caray, Roe Conn, ABC-TV's Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini, Alexi Giannoulias, and Ron Kittle (Former White Sox), along with the Honorary Host Committee. The committee was comprised of female sportscasters from all Chicago stations including Cassie Carlson (FOX32 Sports), Taylor McGregor (Marquee Sports Network), Dionne Miller

Danielle Lamorgese Lisette Andrade Katie Shuta_MattMansuetoPhotography Inc-501

Danielle Lamorgese, Lisette Andrade and Katie Shuta. (Matt Mansueto Photography)

(ABC7 Sports), Leila Rahimi (NBC5 Sports Chicago), Krista Ruch (CBS2 Sports), Kaitlin Sharkey (WGN TV), Sarah Spain (ESPN), and Danni Wysocki (NBC Sports Chicago). Guests enjoyed premium open bars and a selection of gourmet bites from Harry Caray's Catering & Events. Entertainment included sets by top Chicago DJs, including DJ Rock City, DJ Marcus Carter, DJ Justin Jacobson,

Co-chair Joanna DePorter and Dutchie Caray.

victor.r, DJ Ryan Levin, along with the popular cover band Dr. Bombay, which features Chicago Gateway Green Vice Chairman Lee Golub as the drummer. The evening also included a live and silent auction with one-of-a-kind items and experiences, games, and special guests. Throughout the night, guests competed in various bracketed challenges, including darts, shuffleboard, and golf, to win great prizes. As a

Crowd scene at GTB 2022!

nod to the venue, this year's theme, Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes, encouraged guests to pair their finest black-tie attire with their coolest sneakers. Attendees could pump up their look with The Sole Revival, which was on hand to customize kicks. Guests were invited to end their night at an after-party at Tao Nightclub. Chicago Gateway Green is dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago's expressways, gateways, and neighborhoods. Founded in 1986 by Donald J. DePorter, Gateway Green has planted more than 5,000 trees, 90,000 shrubs, and 150,000 perennials, along with the removal of over 1.5 million pounds of litter.

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Harry Potter: Magic at Play experience makes worldwide debut at Water Tower Place in Chicago.

Wizards and witches of all ages are invited to experience and celebrate a Wizarding World of their own at “Harry Potter: Magic at Play” now that it's made its worldwide debut at

A not-to-be-missed magical Harry Potter experience!

Chicago’s iconic Water Tower Place (835 N Michigan Ave.) on Friday, November 11. Get your wands up and get ready to play! Created by Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment and Original X Productions (OGX), this first-of-its-kind

Hogwarts Express!

experience will allow fans of all ages to engage with the Wizarding World like never before through 30,000 square feet (and 3 levels) of hands-on magical interactivity including games, exploration, sensory activations and more that celebrate Harry’s own journey in discovering the wizarding world. The journey begins at 4 Privet Drive. Explore the Dursley’s living room taking care to not

An interactive Potions Classroom.

disturb anyone in the cupboard under the stairs; step onto a boat and prepare to cross the Great Lake to Hogwarts; attend some of Hogwarts’ most beloved classes, mastering “Wingardium Leviosa” and levitating a feather in Charms, exploring the Potions dungeon with all senses and fending off a swarm of Cornish Pixies in Defense Against the Dark Arts; practice Quidditch fundamentals for all player positions; play amid Hagrid's pumpkin patch and traverse the Forbidden Forest; and so much more. A multitude of iconic experiences and

Hunting patronuses by lantern light!

surprises await guests throughout the space as they forge their path through Harry’s journey. The experience also features a gift shop open to both ticketed and non-ticketed guests. The gift shop offers a wide range of bespoke and licensed items alongside themed food and beverages including the beloved Butterbeer. Visitors wishing to send word to friends and family about their magical experience can do so via owl post – a much faster alternative to Muggle mail. Tickets are on sale now at www.HarryPotterMagicAtPlay.com and start at $37.50 for adults and $29.50 for children 9 and under. The experience is expected to last through May 14, 2023.

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Macy's 115th Great Tree with a toy store theme.

Holiday cheer filled every nook and cranny of Macy's State Street for the 115th Great Tree Lighting Ceremony. Held in the iconic Walnut Room on the 7th floor, the event was filled with delightful sights, songs and camaraderie. A bank of press was waiting to capture every moment as wide-eyed guests

Paul Iams and The Caroling Party entertained the Walnut Room guests.

enjoyed a gospel choir, carolers, and a nail-biting countdown to the lighting of the Great Tree. This year, the theme around the 45-foot tree was of a whimsical toy shop, surrounded by colorful gifts, wooden soldiers, a robot, and so much more. Guests enjoyed a traditional Walnut Room menu with old favorites like Mrs. Hering's 1890 Original Chicken Pot Pie, classic meatloaf, Walnut Room salads and desserts that included

42 signature trumpets line Macy's at State Street.

Frango Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Pie, Frango Mint Cheesecake, a Build-Your-Own Snowman dish, a holiday yule log and so much more. Before the ceremony, visitors perused the extensive holiday gift shop where darling ornaments featuring some of Macy's holiday decor were for sale. On the 5th floor, Santa awaited in a cozy nook decorated with tartan red, trees festooned with red and white striped bows and

Santa is waiting in Santaland! Make your reservations now!

sturdy holiday boxes for the kiddies to perch on as they fill Santa's ears with their wishes. (Make reservations at: macys.com/Santaland) The 55th annual Holiday Windows feature Tiptoe, the darling reindeer, and his many adventures. The setting is along State Street underneath the 42 signature holiday trumpets, all now on display! Macy's partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America for its holiday campaign this year.

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Honorees Dr. Ali Djalilian and Kathy Piccone.

The always exciting Eversight Gift of Sight Celebration returned with blow-out party at the Peninsula Chicago on September 22. The sellout

Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with a colorful ZZAZZ Productions performer.

crowd came dressed to impress and followed the suggested attire, "top hats and masquerade masks encouraged," to a T! Thanks to all who helped pump up the volume yet again on this much loved event. Kathy Piccone was honored as the Woman of Vision and Dr. Ali Djalilian was the Gift of Sight honoree. Both attracted supporters who were anxious to give back to these two Chicagoans who have given so much to so many. Kathy was introduced by last year's honoree Justine Fedak, who gave a beautiful intro (all without notes!) and Dr. Ali, wearing a top hat, was presented by Dr. Parag Majmudar, last year's Gift of Sight honoree. There were so many exciting moving parts to the event that you didn't know where to look first. Upon entry, two "circus performers" (from ZZAZZ

Gift of Sight honoree Dr. Ali Djalilian with Dr. Parag Majmudar.

Productions) welcomed guests in colorful attire. On the terrace, The Michael Lerich Trio performed against a jaw-dropping view of the Chicago skyline and, before dinner, an

Mary Ann Rose (Tamar Productions), Heinz Kern and Eversight's Marta Garczarczyk.

aerialist performed in the grand ballroom! The theme was beautifully brought to life by Tamar Productions, with an assist on lobby bar decor from Kehoe Designs. Mary Ann Rose and her team tented the ballroom in large swaths of black and white fabric which matched the dramatic silk black and white tablecloths. A perfect final touch, donated by Mary Ann, were bright pink feathered fans at each place setting, which added the perfect pop of color. The overall effect was exactly

Nina Mariano, Nikki Friar and Cheri James.

like being at a party under the big top! So many fabulous guests were in attendance. Hockey great Chris Chelios and his partner

Hockey great Chris Chelios, ZZAZZ Productions' Kyli Jumas, and NFL star Jim Bob Morris.

NFL star Jim Bob Morris, were serving their tequila (El Bandido Yankee) at the beautiful bar set up in the lobby. Sadly, due to Covid, Diane Hollingsworth (Eversight president/CEO and its heart and soul) wasn't able to attend but that didn't stop her from taping an incredible message for the guests. It was made even sweeter by her nasal congestion which showed you that, even in sickness, she didn't lose "sight" of

Sheree Schimmer.

the mission. Marta Garczarczyk, director of philanthropy, introduced a video of Cassandra Perry, a cornea transplant recipient, who shared her inspiring story.

Florencio and Almira Yllana with Renata Sanfilippo.

John P. Walcher, auctioneer extraordinaire, donated his services to help with the paddle raise and live auction. A heads or tails game preceded the introduction of the honorees. All the speakers' comments were well thought out and added so much emotion to the evening. What a privilege it was to be a part of this night that raised funds to help Eversight restore sight through the healing power of donation, transplantation and research. Dr. Onkar Sawant, the head of research and innovation, attended the event and was on hand to answer any questions. I was honored to return as co-chair with the dear Michael Caputo. This the 75th anniversary for Eversight and I hope I'm around to celebrate its 175th! (For more info or to donate, please click here). _______________________________________________________________________

Celestial Bash honoree Brad Serlin of United Scrap Metal and wife Caroline.

The Adler Planetarium celebrated the return to in-person events with its Celestial Bash (formerly known as the Celestial Ball) on September 10, held at the Planetarium. The event treated guests to a special night at the Adler

Jackson Palias enjoying the view through Doane telescope.

where they had a chance to explore the entire museum after hours. Furthering the Adler’s commitment to an “Adler anywhere” experience, the event also included a 15-minute digital program streamed on the Adler’s YouTube channel for guests around the world to enjoy. Other

Mari Feuer (L), and Alexandria Dunn.

highlights included the world’s first high-altitude balloon light pollution mapping system that was designed and flown with the help of their teens and volunteers; looking at the universe through the new Doane Observatory telescope; relaxing under the

Grainger Sky Theater (Courtesy of Nick Lake)

Grainger Sky Theater (Photo by Nick Lake).

Grainger Sky Theater dome as breathtaking space visualizations transported guests to other worlds; and then dancing the night away against a backdrop of the Chicago skyline. The Adler’s first in-person event in nearly three years raised almost $1.2

From left to right_ Channing R. N. Lenert _ Kathleen Walter Billy Baluyot _ Mary Riordan Ann _ Colin Grant Brittany _ Matthew Walsh

Channing R. N. Lenert, Kathleen Walter, Billy Baluyot, Mary Riordan, Ann Colin Grant, and Brittany Matthew Walsh.

million for everything the Adler does in support of its mission to connect people to the universe and each other under the sky we all share. In addition to the Planetarium’s award-winning exhibitions, sky shows and hands-on, minds-on programming, the Adler is also home to one of the largest astronomical collections in the world. The museum typically hosts more than half a million visitors each year and reaches millions more through youth STEAM programs, neighborhood sky-watching events, people-powered research, and other outreach efforts. (adlerplanetarium.org)

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The Chinese American Service League (CASL) hosted its Annual Gala October 12, attracting hundreds of prominent Chicagoans as well as notable Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) leaders from across the country. Presented by the Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust and chaired by Michael Tang – Chairman, Tang Industries, CASL’s Annual Gala was held at Chicago’s historic Old Post Office. The highlight of the event was the presentation of CASL’s prestigious Golden Lion Award to The Asian American Foundation (TAAF). As co-chair of CASL’s Advisory Board and organizational supporter for over two decades, Emmy award-winning anchor Judy Hsu of ABC-7 Chicago returned as the evening’s emcee. CASL’s esteemed Culinary Training Program, once again served appetizers during cocktail hour. CASL’s Annual Gala raises money for nearly 30 social service programs—such as child development, senior services, legal assistance, employment, citizenship, and more—that serve thousands of individuals in and around Chicago’s Chinatown and beyond. Since TAAF’s inception in 2021, the organization has passionately fought to elevate the voices of all AANHPI organizations, communities, and individuals across the country while making significant strides toward a more equitable future. During its first two years, TAAF has built impactful relationships with the Biden Administration, created a national Anti-Hate Action Network, and secured greater representation for the AANHPI community through achievements such as advocating for and securing the first AANHPI Muppet on Sesame Street, helping pass the TEAACH Act in Illinois, and more. The Golden Lion Award, bestowed upon individuals or organizations that positively impact the AANHPI community and embrace CASL’s spirit, was designed and created by the internationally renowned Zhou Brothers. ShanZuo and DaHuang Zhou created only 20 Golden Lion Awards, each depicting an abstract bronze cast statue of a lion. In Chinese culture, the lion symbolizes strength, stability, and happiness.

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The Maryville Jen School broke ground on its new school, the Charles H. Walsh Sr. Academy and Career Tech High School, on November 9, located at 6935 W Touhy Ave in Niles. The academy is named after the late Chuck Walsh, an alum at Maryville Academy,

Sister Catherine Ryan.

who also served as a member of its Board of Directors for several years. The Academy will be open in Fall 2023. Walsh Academy will continue Jen School's founding vision to provide students with disabilities with a comprehensive and experiential instructional model in academics, career

Walsh Academy Facade rendering.

and vocational pathways, and social-emotional skills through research-based practices. The Walsh Academy will prepare students with skills to be career or college ready. “For over 15 years, Jen School has approached education from the student's perspective and needs as individuals. This approach has allowed our students to earn their high school diplomas and move on to the next phase of their journey,” said Ann Craig, Maryville director of educational services and Jen School principal. The new Walsh Academy will create more opportunities for special needs students while helping them reach their fullest potential. It is the only school in Illinois that has a teacher, social worker and paraprofessional in the classroom.

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Karen Freeman-Wilson, President and CEO of Chicago Urban League.

The Chicago Urban League’s 61st Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner (GFD) raised more than $2 million on November 5 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. More than 1,800 of the city’s corporate leaders, human rights advocates, philanthropists, clergy and elected

Honoree Nikole Hannah-Jones, author and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.

officials were present for the evening, where the theme was “The Fight for Equity Continues: Get in League with Us!” The funds raised will benefit year-round programming for about 15,000 Chicagoans. “We are so grateful for our generous sponsors, partners, friends, and family who showed up and showed out this

Honoree Walter E. Massey PhD Trustee Chair of the City Colleges of Chgo

Honoree Walter E. Massey, PhD Trustee Chair of the City Colleges of Chicago.

year for GFD,” said Chicago Urban League President and CEO Karen Freeman-Wilson. “Due to their generosity, we were fortunate enough to raise more than $2 million dollars. That is groundbreaking! Those dollars are critical to addressing producing and enhancing the work that our staff does in and around the community each and everyday day.” The Golden Fellowship Dinner is the League’s signature gala.

Honoree Helene D. Gayle, M.D, .M.P.H.,
Spelman College President.

Each year, the event raises funds to support its work in helping people find and secure jobs, lock in affordable housing, improve their educational experiences, and nurture their businesses. GFD is one of the premier events during Chicago’s gala season, and that was evident by this year’s attendance just a few years after the start of the pandemic. Guests were excited to get dressed up and fellowship with one another while supporting a great cause. Earlier in the day at the Gleacher Center with Nykia Wright, CEO of the Chicago Sun-Times, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and creator of the groundbreaking 1619 Project, accepted the League’s highest honor – the esteemed Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award. (Photos by The Crusader. Read more here: The Crusader)

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Shermann "Dilla" Thomas received the 21st Century Award.

Over 400 Library champions gathered to celebrate bold stories and public libraries at the Chicago Public Library Foundation’s Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Gala. The event raised funds to continue to provide unparalleled access to lifelong learning opportunities. The Foundation has

Brenda Langstraat Bui, president/CEO CPLF, greeted guests.

already raised more than $1.2M to date. During an evening filled with inspiration and joy, the Foundation honored Chef Rick Bayless with the Arts Award, Shermann “Dilla” Thomas with the 21^st Century Award and Tony Kushner with the Carl Sandburg

Award winning playwright, Tony Kushner, received the Carl Sandburg Literary Award.

Literary Award. Event co-chairs were Francia E. Harrington and Andrés Ordóñez. Remarks were offered from Commissioner Chris Brown, Library Board Chair Linda Johnson Rice and Dave Casper. Honorary chairs were Mayor Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman and Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker. For more than 20 years, the Library Foundation Awards have brought together civic leaders and creative storytellers to make more unique programming possible at Chicago Public Library. (Photos by Kyle Flubacker)

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Rebar for Mag Mile Lights Festival with Giovanna Krozel, Chuck, Florencio Yllana and Almira Yllana.

There is so much going on in Chicago now, as you can see! Isn't it great to see all the events come back and all the fun parties going on? As a Christmas nut, I especially love seeing the abundance of holiday happenings around town. Of course, the Christkindlmarkets are on my must-visit lists but I also loved the latest Wintrust Mag Mile Lights Festival! It was especially fun viewing it from Rebar at the Trump Tower with friends Giovanna Krozel, Almira Yllana and their

Wings to Cure co-chairs Charlene and Scott Seaman with HCRF founder Eleni Bousis.

artist/brother Florencio Yllana. (You DO NOT want to miss the Gingerbread Elevator at Trump!) And kudos are in order for Eleni Bousis, founder of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation. At this year's Wings to Cure gala, co-chairs Charlene Seaman and Scott Seaman delivered stirring, inspiring speeches and Hosea Sanders (co-emcee) shared his cancer journey. Dina Bair Maher and Lou Canellis were also emcees. The nonprofit raises vital funds for cutting-edge cancer research.

Ralph Lauren opened its second Ralph's Coffee (after NYC) at

Randy Montesinos and Chuck Jordan at the opening of Ralph's Coffee.

the store on Michigan Avenue. Although beautiful, the lighting is a smidge too bright for me. Nonetheless, we enjoyed visiting with friends Jamie Gaballa and Randy Montesinos as well as having illustrations done by the one and only Kristine Steiner. I know it will quickly become THE place to meet and greet but don't plan on bringing your computer, they aren't allowed.

On Tuesday, December 6, join The Service Club of Chicago for its annual Holiday Luncheon, this year at the

Service Club holiday luncheon is Dec. 6 at the Union League Club.

Union League Club. Co-chaired by Karen Peters, Lezley Hodes and sponsored by Sherrill Bodine, the party begins at 10 am for cocktails and shopping with a variety of fabulous vendors. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the nonprofit The Chicago Lighthouse, (Tickets, $200, and info here)

Music of the Baroque's Holiday and Choral Concerts inspire music in some of Chicago’s most beautiful spaces. Celebrate the season with joyful carols, solemn chant, and jubilant works for brass from the medieval era to the present, conducted by Andrew Megill. Concerts will be featured at various locations: Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest (Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.), St. Michael in Old Town (Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.), Faith, Hope & Charity Church in Winnetka (Dec. 17, 2 p.m), Alice Millar Chapel in Evanston (Dec. 18, 2 p.m.), and On Demand (Dec. 23, 10 a.m.). (baroque.org)

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Chef Mauro Mafrici, Pelago Ristorante.

The beloved PELAGO RISTORANTE, 209 East Delaware Place, will come to the end of its fifteen year run serving fine dining Italian cuisine to Chicago on New Year's Eve 2022, when it will serve its last meal. Chef

The cozy ambiance of Pelago Ristorante at 209 E. Delaware Place.

Mauro Mafrici will be serving dinner nightly through December 31,2022. He is going to take some time in January to spend with his family before he decides what is next for his culinary journey. Michelin starred Italian Chef Mafrici's cuisine has been defined a “sapori veri’: true, honest, genuine flavors used masterfully to create new sensations, forms and colors. Fresh seasonal ingredients from Italian and local sources tantalize every

Frollino (cookie ring with mascarpone sabayon, banana and blueberry sorbet)

taste bud as Mauro allows each bite to speak for itself in a clean, straightforward flavorful vocabulary. Chef Mafrici's traditions of Italian cooking from the North to the South of Italy have been translated with a regional twist and modern

Veal Ravioli with pistachio sauce

cooking flair to create a contemporary menu for an outstanding culinary journey. There will be a special menu for Vigilia di Natale, Feast of the Seven Fishes on December 24th and Capodanno New Year's Eve, December 31. But, otherwise Pelago will be serving dinner nightly until January 1, 2023. Visit while you still can for an amazing, intimate dining experience. He will be missed. (Pelago Ristorante, 209 E. Delaware, 312.280.0700, (pelagorestaurant.com)

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The Chicago Lighthouse Woman with Flair honoree, Sherry Lea Holson.

The Chicago Lighthouse hosted its 9^th annual signature fundraiser, FLAIR (“Eye on Style”), at the Langham Chicago. The sold-out event, the organization’s biggest to date,

Event co-chairs Sherrill Bodine and Sheree Schimmer.

honored Sherry Lea Holson as its Hood/Swift Woman with Flair in front of 225 fashion-loving, philanthropic supporters. Established in 1922, this nonprofit has provided assistance, services and programming to the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veterans. The afternoon of “Fun. Fashion. Philanthropy” featured a runway fashion show with looks from ten partner stores and designers. Stores included Frances Heffernan, Anne Fontaine, Max Mara at Bloomingdale’s, Contessa Bottega, St. John, redE and Macy’s (My Personal Stylist at Macy's State Street). Featured designers were Mira Couture, Al Menotti Couture and Lauren Lein. Chicago Lighthouse alum Michael Hansen

Nina Mariano and Tracey DiBuono Tarantino (co-emcee with Candace Jordan)

Tracey Tarantino, show producer and co-emcee with moi, and Nina Mariano.

sang “Unforgettable” in a moving tribute to the organization’s first honoree, the late Vonita

Charlotte Jackson Laura Selipsky Dr. Janet Szlyk (CL executive director) Lindsay Inglis (CL VP of Advancement)

Reescer. A video showcasing the great work of The Chicago Lighthouse on behalf of children with disabilities was presented by its executive director, Dr. Janet Szlyk. Jewelry designer Clara Williams (Clara K Jewelry) donated a pair of earrings for the raffle which was won by Kathy Piccone. Co-chairs Sheree Schimmer and Sherrill Bodine presented Sherry Lea with her award. In her acceptance speech, she shared her own experience with an eye condition that temporarily impaired her vision. The show was expertly produced by Tracey Tarantino DiBuono who also served as the co-emcee with moi. The event raised $150,000 for the organization’s children’s and youth programs. (chicagolighthouse.org)

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Birthday boy Frank N. Jeffery, with friends Donna Rotunno, Jennifer Sutton Brieva and Gayle Anthony.

Congrats with love to realtor Frank N. Jeffery on the occasion of his 50th birthday. His longtime love Todd Hatoff threw him a fabulous bash at Sepia. Before this, he was feted at parties all over town and around the world (think San Jose del Cabo, at the Viceroy). Over 100 friends enjoyed delicious food and an amazing cake served by owner Emmanuel Nony himself. (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

More celebrations are in order, this time for longtime loves Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzales. They were united in marriage at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Lake Forest on October 22.

Newlyweds Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzalez.

The black tie affair carried over for dining and cocktails under the stars at the historic home of Craig Bergmann and Paul Klug. The homes and gardens on the property were a part of the

Surprise performance by Giordano Dance Chicago in honor of Kip and Trey.

Armour estate and was, of course, supremely grand. The multi-tiered wedding cake was almond with champagne mousse and apricot jam topped with buttercream frosting. A delightful surprise was the dynamic performance by Giordano Dance Chicago (Kip is president of the board for GDC). Oh. What. A. Night.

Another man-about-town, Michael Kutza (founder of the Chicago International Film Festival) has been making

appearances everywhere for his exciting new book "Starstruck"! I was thrilled to conduct a

Interviewing author Michael Kutza at Marchesa.

Q & A with this longtime friend at the beautiful Marchesa restaurant (535 N. Wells). Owner Kathryn Alvera outdid herself with hosting and the event was so elegant, cozy and interesting. Michael truly turned Chicago into the Hollywood of the Midwest and his book documents all of the excitement through spectacular insider photos and personal stories of his close encounters. The book has sold out twice on Amazon! Get it here!

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Mary Ann Rose, executive director of the Chicago Police Foundation, with her love Heinz Kern.

The Chicago Police Foundation hosted its 7^th annual True Blue Event at the Hyatt Regency November 15. A sell-out crowd turned out to support this nonprofit that helps to improve the city of Chicago’s public safety by funding

With Officer Orlando and his dog Rich.

programs that supplement resources and equipment available to the Chicago Police Department (CPD). Officers in attendance shared information about the work they do including Officer Orlando who was there with his police dog Rich, members of the bomb squad who demonstrated the use of their heavy equipment as well as a robotic dog and others. The room was decorated by Tamar Productions in shades of blue in honor of the police

Officers were on hand to demonstrate their gear for guests of the True Blue event at the Hilton.

department’s colors. Two speakers stood out who inspired the room and made everyone feel proud to be Chicagoans. Here are their speeches in their entirety from Rick Simon, Chicago Police Foundation Board Chair, and Chicago Police Superintendent David O. Brown. Mary Ann Rose, as CPF executive director, coordinated and planned the event to perfection. Rick Simon, Chicago Police Foundation Board Chair: “What is the Chicago Police Foundation? What do we do? We serve those who serve us. Those who walk the thin blue line

With Chicago Police Superintendent David O. Brown.

every day. If you have the opportunity, go to the park across the street from Soldier Field and, in the park, you will see a blue line in tile about half a block long. That’s what every police officer walks every night when they go out to work—they walk that thin blue line that separates you from those who want to do you harm. The police officer that walks that line makes sure you don’t come to harm. So, I say to you, what will we do for them? …A LEMART [Law Enforcement Medical and Rescue Training] kit, that I’m holding here, costs

Bomb suit on display at the event.

about $100 and we’ve supplied thousands of these life-saving pieces of equipment to police officers. By supplying these, not only are we saving citizens, but the officers are looked at someone who is a savior, partner, and friend.” David O. Brown, Chicago Police Department Superintendent, also addressed the crowd with this inspiring speech [in part]: “What you do holds together the fabric of our democracy. Policing is what happens to ensure that everyone has a fair chance to have a safe neighborhood, a place that you go to work and enjoy the fruits of your labors safely. Is it imperfect? Yes, officers have to make split second decisions many times to save lives. But often, not much appreciation for what they do. YOU have made Chicago Police Officers feel appreciated. You have. You help us build trust when we risk our lives going into some of the toughest neighborhoods. You make us feel like our jobs are not in vain. You have made us feel like the loud voices are not the majority, that YOU are the majority and are the examples of what society really feels about us, and that they appreciate our sacrifice.”

Chicago Police Department Superintendent David O. Brown holds award presented to Verizon for its support of the CPD at True Blue Event.

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Melissa David, Maria Balata, Jennifer Tscherney and Lauren Sandherr enjoy the ACE Preview Party.

Guests attended the 38^th annual American Craft Exhibition (ACE) sponsored by The Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This year’s show raised $300,000 for NorthShore University HealthSystem SAVE MOMS and Pathways patient care programs. For more information about their vital patient care programs at NorthShore and how to support them, please visit https://foundation.northshore.org/.

Kevin Sullivan, a key to Chicago's fundraising efforts for nonprofits, and a dear friend.

On a personal note, I want to send lots of love and healing hugs to Kevin Sullivan, a vital component of so many nonprofits' success around town. His commitment to The Service Club of Chicago and The Chicago Lighthouse are so appreciated by so many. He never says no which I am guessing is part of the reason he did some hospital time! To send a card (or a donation), please direct it c/o The Service Club, P.O. Box 10165, Chicago, IL 60610. We love you Kev and hope you're back to your old (wonderful) self soon!

The City of Chicago, Mag Mile Association and World Business Chicago led a strategy, coming out of pandemic recovery, to transform vacant retail spaces into experiences featuring local small businesses and the city’s strong global connections. Thus, was born three pop up shops on the Mag Mile, the Argentine Connection, Nordic House and Colores Mexicanos Chicago. Another pop-up is coming next week to Michigan Avenue. Perfect for holiday shopping!

One of my favorite events of the year, and one definitely not to

be missed by families, is WINGS Program, Inc.'s "Sweet Home Chicago" event. It will be held at the Four Seasons on Dec. 11 from 10 am to 1 pm. This year's 19th annual event will be co-chaired by Rita and John Canning to support families facing domestic violence issues. It will include gingerbread house decorating, balloon artists, family portraits, ornament decorating, visiting with Santa and K-9 Comfort Dogs, a special music performance by Ralph's World and MORE! (More info here)

Congrats to Eli's Cheesecake and Maureen and Marc Schulman...Always giving back. This year for Thanksgiving they provided desserts for 400 Ukrainian families and dedicated the staff break room at Refugee One in honor of Eli M. Schulman and Eli's Cheesecake.

The Joffrey Ballet began its second season of “The Nutcracker” at the Lyric Opera House December 3 and it is

Festive tree in Lyric Opera House lobby.

SPECTACULAR! The last time we saw it was 2 years ago at the Auditorium Theatre. This production at the Lyric seems bigger, brighter and bolder, maybe it’s because the stage is larger at the Lyric which allows the dancers more room to shine and also more room to showcase the spectacular visuals! The entire cast is superb but you won’t want to miss veteran/star/dancer Victoria Jaiani as an Arabian dancer. Yowza! (Now through Dec. 27, Joffrey.org)

Paul French, musical director, and the Shrine Chorale and Orchestra.

The Shrine of our Lady of Pompeii (1224 W. Lexington) hosted its 22nd "Mary and Christmas" holiday concert. Congrats to co-chairs Lou Rago, Lydia Aiello and David Allen, Pat and Joe Perillo and Marietta and Louis Pullano on a beautiful and inspiring night. Superstar singers included Lou Rago's son, Anthony, and his granddaughter Mia Rago. Conductor Paul French directed the talented Shrine Chorale and Orchestra.

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas with Pastor John Harrell.

Congrats to ALL!

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas hosted her annual Christmas Party on December 2. The office was packed with friends and supporters for the festive sing-along that included performances from communities across Chicagoland. Wish there were more pols like her.

Wearing a poncho by York Furrier with designer Peach Carr and emcee Alison Rosati.

Congrats to the Oakbrook Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society Family Health on its 50th anniversary! They hosted their annual Mistletoe Medley, "Hearts of Gold," fashion show at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace on November 29. The show was produced by ZZAZZ Productions (Tracey Tarantino DiBuono) with Alison Rosati returning as its inspiring emcee. The event was co-chaired by the dynamic duo, Linda Layland and Marge Tresley. Before the event, guests shopped a fabulous holiday market with over 30 vendors. Funds raised supported healthcare services and education for underserved and vulnerable Chicagoans.

Special thanks to Rick Kogan for having me back for a chat on WGN Radio! We talked about everything from Chicago Star moving to digital to the hottest holiday happenings to the state of Chicago! Listen here.

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Darvin Furniture & Mattress in Orland Park, one of the world's largest furniture stores!

Chuck and I visited one of the world’s largest furniture stores on Black Friday. Darvin Furniture & Mattress in Orland Park tops out at over 200,000-sq-ft of retail space and is one of the top-selling single locations in the entire furniture industry, doing an estimated $95 million in sales

this last year alone. It’s quite an achievement considering

Darvin president Will Harris pointing out one of the company's many awards.

its founder, Louis Darvin, started the business by going door to door to take orders back in the 1920s. Will Harris, president, gave us a grand tour and what touched me the most was seeing how proud he was of the business and his own accomplishments moving it forward. He knew the

Chuck enjoying one of Darvin's offerings.

name of every single employee, including the ones working in the back rooms of the ginormous distribution center, which is located a couple miles away. Chuck and I were also impressed with the extensive offerings too. There is really something here for every taste bud. The mattress department is spread across two floors and, in 2021, the company won the “Retail Giant of Bedding”

Darvin founders breaking ground.

award at the industry-respected Bedding Conference. Darvin brothers, Steve and Marty, acknowledged that since neither of them had children going into the business, that is was important for the future of the company to make it employee-owned. The pride felt throughout is palpable and each employee treats customers just like family. Louis would be so proud. (Check it out at 15400 La Grange Road, Orland Park, IL., (708) 460-4100, Darvin.com)

That's the end for now! I'm hoping you are having a joyous holiday season filled with everything your heart desires. As always, thanks so much for sticking with me! I will always try to fill your inbox with good news you can use AND that supports our wonderful communities. Remember, send me any news you would like me to share to Candace@CandidCandace.com. And don't let the Grinch catch you napping!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

And lastly, the final print edition of Chicago Star is out now (photo by Kristan Lieb, produced by moi)! The move to digital will be in 2023. Sign up now here!

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Tagged as Adler Planetarium, Almira Yllana, around town, arts and culture, best blog in chicago, Brenda Langstraat Bui, Carl Sandburg Literary Awards, Cassandra Perry, Celestial Bash, Charlene Seaman, Chicago events, chicago hotspots, Chicago Public Library Foundation, chicago restaurants, Chicago Urban League, Chicago Urban League Golden Fellowship Dinner, Chris Petlak, Christkind, Christkindlmarket, Chuck Jordan, Cortney Hall, Diane Hollingsworth, Dionne Miller, DJ Rock City, Dr. Ali Djalilian, Dr. Bombay, Dr. Onkar Sawant, Dr. Parag Majmudar, Dutchie Caray, Eleni Bousis, event coverage, events, Eversight Vision, family fun in chicago, gala news, Gallagher Way, Gift of Sight, Giovanna Krozel, Grant DePorter, Green Tie Ball, Greg Hyder, Harry Potter Magic at Play, Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation, holiday fun in chicago, holiday popups, hottest blog in chicago, Jake Hamilton, Jamie Gabala, Jerry Azumah, Joanna DePorter, John P. Walcher, Jon Harris, Justin Jacobson, Justine Fedak, Karen Peters, Kathy Piccone, Kehoe Designs, Krista Ruch, Lee Golub, Leila Rahimi, Lezley Hodes, Macy's State Street, Mag Mile Lights Festival, Marta Garczarczyk, Mary Ann Rose, Maryville Jen School, Meg Newton Satherlie, Michael Caputo, Michael Lerich Trio, Music of the Baroque, Nancy Timmers, Natale Bomke, nonprofits, party pics, PAWS Chicago, Peninsula Chicago, people to know in chicago, Ralph Lauren, Ralph's Coffee, Randy Montesinos, Rick Bayless, Roe Conn, Ron Kittle, Ryan Chiaverini, Ryan Levin, Sarah Spain, Scott Seaman, Shermann Dilla Thomas, Sherrill Bodine, Sylvia Perez, Tamar Productions, Tao Nightclub, Taylor Kinney, the go to blog, The Service Club of Chicago, The Sole Revival, Tony Kushner, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Val Warner, Where to go in Chicago, Wings to Cure gala, Wintrust, ZZAZZ Productions

December 16, 2020 · 10:02 am

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

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

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Isabel Wilkerson, Carl Sandburg Literary Award recipient.

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

Donna La Pietra, the first CPLF Civic Award winner.

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

Nate Marshall, CPLF 21st Century honoree.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

the board's founder and Donna's

Rap artist Pinqy Ring-After School Matters.

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

Brenda Langstraat, CPLF president.

Chef Rick Bayless.

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

Greg Cameron, CEO Joffrey Ballet.

with After School Matters) and artist Nick Cave.

Linda Johnson Rice, CPLF chair.

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

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

the Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, was featured

Dave Casper, U.S. CEO BMO>

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

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing York Furrier.

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

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

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

Lou Smeja, Oak Brook Chapter President.

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

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

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

Designer Peach Carr, the one and onlyl.

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

Tracey Tarantino at redE Mas Boutique.

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

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

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

Peach Carr pointing out 3 of her archived designs.

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

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

and that all of her pieces are very

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

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

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

Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing a Peach Carr design.

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

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

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

Laura Muriello, Wood Family Foundation executive director.

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

Boka Chef Lee Wolen.

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

Happy culinary participants.

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

Young supporters.

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

Sarah and Kerry's tasty finished dish.

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

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

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

Rita and John Canning.

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

Rebecca Darr, executive director WINGS Program.

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

Adorable event participants!

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

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

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

Dancing to Ralph's World!

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

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

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

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

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Frosty's Pop-Up Christmas Hotel.

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

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Albany Park decor.

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

Chuck enjoying N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park.

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

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

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

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

With CircuitMOM's Edwin Martinez and Matthew Harvat.

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

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

Part of the luxurious Princess Diana Suite.

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

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Greg Hyder, the King of Christmas.

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

TiffaneyChildsPhotography-ChicagoWeddingPhotographer-DebiLilyHolidayStyledShoot-DLLoft--319

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

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

Michelle Durpetti's elegant holiday table.

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

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

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

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

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

Debi Lilly with a locally sourced tree.

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

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

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

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

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

Kehoe Designs helping those less fortunate during the holidays.

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

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Joseph Szmczak and Shaun Rajah.

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

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

15590659_1843539932593458_8279539499736337672_n

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN."

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

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My favorite rock legend, Jim Peterik, will be offering his 25th

Rock legend Jim Peterik, the Ides of March.

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

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Hannah Stanley and Fred Weintraub–WGCO radio.

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

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

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

Sylvia Perez–Fox 32 Chicago.

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

Robert Feder's column.

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

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

Steve Ewert photo.

never forgetting those who brought you to the party!

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

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

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

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I didn't know they could read?!

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May 5, 2020 · 11:23 am

GALAS GOING VIRTUAL: HOW SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY CELEBRATED THE BARD’S BIRTHDAY IN STYLE ONLINE

Sign seen on Covid car ride. We believe.

Welcome back for my second blog under covid. Like everyone else in the world, I feel like this thing has me by the throat. I understand the frustration of people trying to gain back some freedom. In the beginning, believe it or not, I thought this was sort of fun–at least I had an excuse to stay home with Chuck and Rooney. I even got in some very creative cooking, thanks to Chef Art Smith and his great Insta videos. The stay-at-home order was like having permission to take a staycation. Little did I, or anyone else,

We miss shooting the breeze with Joey.

realize how long this would last and the horrible loss of life, sickness and personal sacrifice (on behalf of the front line workers

Gibson's with Kathy Piccone–such a sweet memory that I hope will return soon.

and others) it would cost. I understand the safety precautions we all need to take but I'm definitely ready to get back to work, get out of the house and have a reason to get dressed and earn a paycheck again. Zoom meetings are not for me. I'm a Gemini, I need social interaction like I need air to breathe. I know this will end but then what? What will the new normal look like? We all see how the world changed following 9/11. I

Pizano's, festive at Christmastime and always.

can't imagine flying with plastic panels between seats, nor can I imagine what dining in restaurants will look like. How in

Armando Vasquez, La Scarola. We're waiting to do this again!

the world will Armando Vasquez, from La Scarola, share tequila shooters with us? How will I handle not getting a hug from Kathy Piccone at Gibson's and how sad would it be not to be able to sit at Tufano's with Joey DiBuono or at the bar at Pizano's with Brian shooting the breeze. Times will change but I pray memories like these will return for us all, and soon.

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Our fabulous gala-going days have been cut short too, for now. Thank you Rona. However, that doesn't mean nonprofits aren't getting creative with their fundraising, ergo virtual galas! Now, we all know this isn't nearly as gratifying as rubbing shoulders with friends, comparing new outfits or toasting a successful night, but it is a vital effort for the organizations to stay afloat and keep revenue streams open. I've come to realize that if supporters have their heart set on your nonprofit, they will find a way to help and this gives them a perfect opportunity during this crisis. Case in point, I recently "attended/watched" Chicago Shakespeare Theatre's online event, "Toast to Shakespeare's Birthday." It's lucky for them that they have such a deep arsenal of performing and creative talent, which helped move along the 1/2 hour free celebration. It was joyous and thoughtfully produced with nearly 2000 households tuning in and several thousand more on-demand. The organization was really ahead of the game though as they've been producing "tons" of online content as part of their ongoing Shakes@Home initiative. The recent birthday celebration for the bard was the first virtual event of this kind that they have produced. The event was part of its Brave New World campaign which brought in more than $10,000 in new and first time gifts toward the $900,000 raised to date. Read details below:

CST_BdayToast_01_courtesyChicagoShakespeare

Shakespeare Theater Company's virtual gala was a great success!

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presented a one-night-only streaming event Toast to Shakespeare’s Birthday! on April 23. On the occasion of the Bard’s 456th birthday, a line-up of special guests—including the Queens of SIX on Broadway, Chicago Theater legend Larry Yando, hip-hop sensations the Q Brothers Collective, actor/author John Tufts, as well as T.R. Knight, Heather Headley, Peter Sagal, Chef Rick

A 456th BD celebration!

Bayless, Harry Hadden-Paton and Rebecca Night, James Vincent Meredith, E. Faye Butler, and more–all offered toasts to the Bard during the 1/2 hour virtual event that opened with a welcome from artistic director Barbara Gaines and creative producer Rick Boynton. The fun-filled event featured a special musical performance from the

CST_BdayToast_02_courtesyChicagoShakespeare

The virtual event was hosted by Rick Boynton and Barbara Gaines.

SIX Queens—Adrianna Hicks, Andrea Macasaet, Abby Mueller, Brittney Mack, Samantha Pauly, and Anna Uzele—who headlined the North American Premiere production of the hit show at Chicago Shakespeare in Spring 2019 and now await their return to the Broadway stage. Legendary Chicago theater actor Larry Yando joined online to discuss Shakespeare after appearing onstage in some of the Bard’s most storied roles. The evening also featured Chicago hip hop sensations, the Q Brothers Collective – GQ, JQ, Jax and Pos, who have created award-winning “ad-rap-tations” of Shakespeare including Othello: The Remix. Actor

CST_BdayToast_03_courtesyChicagoShakespeare

Beautiful stars from the "Queens of Six"

and author John Tufts, along with his son, shared a birthday-themed recipe from his newly released book, Fat Rascals: Dining at Shakespeare’s Table. Making special appearances throughout the event were T.R. Knight (Grey’s Anatomy, Chicago Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Heather Headley (Broadway’s The Color Purple, Aida, The Lion King), NPR’s Peter Sagal (Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me), Chef Rick Bayless, Harry Hadden-Paton (Downton Abbey, Broadway’s My Fair Lady) and Rebecca Night (Chicago Shakespeare’s The King’s Speech), James Vincent Meredith (The Book of Mormon National Tour), award-winning vocalist E. Faye Butler, as well as Heidi Kettenring, Laura Rook and Nate Burger, Jennifer Latimore, and Sean

The theater company's design department is hard at work helping create masks during the crisis.

and Linda Fortunato. The event highlighted Chicago Shakespeare’s current initiatives to serve audiences, artists and the community and covered Chicago

John Tufts, and his son, cooked on the show and "shamelessly" touted his new cookbook.

Shakespeare’s new free educational initiative, Stream and Study, which provides educators with a digital stream of the Theater’s 2017 abridged production of Romeo and Juliet, adapted and directed by Marti Lyons and a wide array of teaching materials and activities, tailored for the now-virtual classroom. Hundreds of teachers have already signed up to implement the program in their digital curriculum. The

Actor Greg Vinkler offered a virtual toast.

Theater’s "Masks for faces and for Noses" project, in partnership with University of Illinois – Chicago, was also spotlighted.

Actors Rebecca Night and Harry Hadden-Paton.

The project workers have completed more than 18,000 patient face masks for UI Health hospitals and other healthcare facilities across the state, all while providing a source of income to more than 100 theater-makers across the city, many of whom are out of work due to the COVID-19-releated theater closures. The virtual event closed with cast members and other theater VIPs thanking the viewers and the front line workers. Gaines ended with, "Stay safe, be well and let's all take care of each other."

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Congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago for its first ever virtual Zoom jazz dance experience that was held on Gus Giordano Day April 25 with renowned choreographer Ray Leeper. The

GDC's Nan Giordano and Cesar Salinas welcomed viewers from Nan's living room.

energetic and inspiring online event opened with a welcome from artistic director Nan Giordano and artistic programs manager, Cesar Salinas, from Nan's beautiful living room. Nan introduced Leeper who appeared from his Los Angeles home. This was followed by 20-minute combo sessions conducted by Giordano and Leeper with appearances by the

Choreographer Ray Leeper led us all in dance from his home in LA.

dancers at various intervals. Everyone was encouraged to follow along for this intermediate level online dance celebration. Over 300 viewers tuned in from 12 countries and 31 states, raising $3000 for America's original jazz dance company, now in its 57th year. At the conclusion, a full screen

The entire GDC company participated and joined together at the conclusion to thank supporters.

of all of the dancers appeared with Nan, Cesar, Ray and Michael McStraw, executive director. GDC is one of the longest running professional dance companies in America. The event will be held again on June 9 led by Leeper, this time on NAN GIORDANO DAY! Congrats to all and I'll "see" you on June 9! (To follow along, click here!)

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Pants Optional, a virtual gala for Steppenwolf Theatre Company and Saturday, May 9.

And you won't want to miss THIS virtual gala! Steppenwolf Theatre Company will replace its 2020 Gala with a special (FREE) online event, Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée. The event will celebrate the power of theatre and raise critical funds to keep the company alive during a time of necessary social-distancing. Ensemble member Audrey Francis will emcee this festive virtual gathering on Saturday, May 9, at 6:30 pm CST, with special appearances by Steppenwolf ensemble members Joan Allen, Gary Cole, John Malkovich, Sandra Marquez and Laurie Metcalf, along with celebrity guests who will be announced on

STC ensemble member John Malkovich will participate in the virtual event.

Steppenwolf’s social media channels and website. Steppenwolf ensemble members and esteemed celebrity guests will make special appearances in this

Ensemble member Tracy Young.

virtual soirée, uniting with Steppenwolf supporters, audiences and fans viewing the event from the comfort of their homes. Throughout the evening, guests will be able to give online, by phone or by text to help raise funds to bring back to the stage I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, this season’s Steppenwolf for Young Adults hit world premiere based on the award-winning novel by

Ensemble member Audrey Francis will emcee.

Erika L. Sánchez, adapted by celebrated Chicago playwright Isaac Gómez. The extended and sold out run was cut short by the COVID-19 crisis and remounting the production in the Spring of 2021 would bring back to life this essential Chicago story for those who were unable to see it and others who want to see it again. Wrapping up Steppenwolf’s spectacular online bash, attendees can participate in a virtual dance party with the talented DJ Tracy Young, who won a 2020 Grammy for her remix of Madonna’s I Rise. “Although our traditional gala is always a wonderful night that we look forward to, I know that this year’s event will be truly special. Being able to come together online with a greater swath of Steppenwolf artists, audiences and supporters for a collective

Beloved ensemble member Joan Allen will also participate.

moment of joy during these difficult times is just what we need to support live theatre and each other,” shares artistic director Anna D. Shapiro.

Ensemble member Gary Cole.

Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée co-chairs include ensemble member Joan Allen; trustee Susan Berghoef; ensemble members Gary Cole and Sandra Marquez; and trustee Anne Phillips and Don Phillips. “Every year we look forward to a fun celebration with artists, ensemble, trustees and guests in support of the incredible work that Steppenwolf

Ensemble member Sandra Marquez.

Education does season after season. We’re thrilled that this year’s virtual platform allows us to expand our reach by making it free and open to all. What better way to uplift the power of live theatre than raising funds to bring back a production that was so meaningful to our teen and public audiences. We are looking forward to reuniting with our Steppenwolf community online with this event and at our theatre again in the future,” shared executive director David Schmitz. Pants Optional: A Steppenwolf Soirée lead sponsors are Anne and Don Phillips with additional support from Innovators Allstate, The Bluhm Family Charitable Foundation, Exelon, Grosvenor Capital Management, Liz and Eric Lefkofsky, The Orlebeke Foundation and The Pritzker Traubert Family Foundation, among others. For more details on how to stream this exciting event, click here!

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Holly Buckendahl, RMHC CEO

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana hosted its first virtual UNGala on May 2. Hosted by Fred (of KISS 103.5 FM) and Holly Buckendahl, the nonprofit's CEO, the 40 minute event featured a performance by Sixteen Candles (that was introduced by lead singer Adam LeBlanc). The group sang "Chains of Love." Nick Lynch, 3-time

Fred, of KISS 103.5 FM) hosted the show.

American Idol contestant sang "Best Days" by Graham Colton. In between performances, RMHC ambassador families shared their stories of staying at the Houses when their children were sick. The Donnelly family's daughter Olivia, was born with a rare heart condition

Baby Olivia before her first heart transplant.

that required hospitalization that eventually led to heart transplant surgery, not once, but twice. Every year, the family leads a Walk for Hope and Olivia is doing great now! Throughout the event, Holly shared info about the 5 Houses spread across Chicagoland (along with three Family Rooms). She said, "We

Sixteen Candles' Adam LeBlanc.

exist so families can get better together." The Houses served around 18,000 kids last year. It costs about $85 per night to house a family but they are asked to donate only $10, if they can. If they can't, no family is ever turned away. There was a Q&A with Ronald McDonald introduced by franchise

American Idol's Nick Lynch performed.

owner/operator Derrick Lott. Ronald led the viewers in a dance and told some cute jokes. Mardelle Gundlach, program director, gave supporters a tour of the House near Comer Children's Hospital. Fred spoke about his own family's experiences staying in various

Olivia in dancing mode–she's doing great now!

Houses when he had meningitis as a kid. In conclusion, the band Spoken Four sang Stevie Wonder's "Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours." Pete Bensen, RMHCCNI board chair, thanked everyone for viewing and donating. "While the world around us is on pause, childhood illness doesn't take a break." The event

Spoken Four performed.

raised over $760,000 towards a $1 million goal with donations pouring in online from the Benson Family ($10K); McGonigal Family ($5K); True Group ($10K); Koerner Family ($2500); Hammock Family ($2500); Caitlin Griffin ($1K); Capgemini Family ($10K); Red Shoes Society ($5K) and the Chicago Bulls and White Sox ($5K) and so many more. Donations for the UnGala are continuing through the end of the month (and anytime, of course). To donate or bid on silent auction items, click here!

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I'm so happy to be receiving so many updates on

Chicago House has reset its event to September 13.

the return of previously cancelled galas! Please mark your calendars for the following big events that will be live and in person (for now anyway). Make sure you check each nonprofit's website though as the event draws closer in case there have been changes.

Chicago House & Social Service's 34th annual Brunch & Fashion Show has been rescheduled for September 13. I will be front and center for this hotly anticipated, fun-filled, joyous event to benefit this nonprofit that, since 1985, has provided support for those living with and vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. For tickets, more info, please click here!

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Josh Hale, pres/CEO Big Shoulders Fund, and friends.

The Big Shoulders Fund will host its annual "Reach for the Stars" gala on Friday, September 23 at the Hilton Chicago. Here's what Josh Hale, president/CEO, had to say about BSF which provides support to Catholic Schools in the neediest areas of inner-city Chicago. "We are actively working to keep our mission strong and vibrant. Our 95 schools are providing e-learning to some 26,000 children in under-resourced communities. Also, we are listening to the needs of these schools and children and are providing them with what they need – chromebooks, social-emotional supports, food, and caring – love! While all of these are critical, ensuring these children, their families and communities have access to food has been the most critical and uplifting! With the support of generous supporters, we have initiated an innovative partnerships with small community-based restaurants to deliver food/meals to our students, families, and others in the community facing food instability. Currently, we have 20 sites set up – our schools – located in some of Chicago’s lowest income communities. We have partnered with just over 30 local, family owned

Happy kids enjoying meals from Big Shoulders Fund initiatives.

restaurants in these communities to provide meals. We pay the restaurants to prepare the meals which are either distributed at our schools or picked-up from the restaurant. They are fresh, hot and restaurant quality. We see this as a win-win in that we help local community-based organizations – restaurants and our schools – to remain open, vibrant and fulfilling a great need in their community. This program has grown significantly and, thus far, we have served nearly 20,000 meals and counting." Keep up the great work Josh and BSF! (For gala tickets, more info about this amazing nonprofit, and/or to support, click here!)

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After School Matters, a nonprofit that provides Chicago high school teens with after-school and summer opportunities, had to cancel its Sneaker Ball this year that was scheduled for May 2. It will be reset for Spring 2021.

Bright Futures virtual gala is set for Thursday, May 14.

Bright Futures has changed its event to a virtual gala set for Thursday, May 14. The event will support its Youth Guidance initiative that mentors and counsels 13,000 youth.

The National Museum of Mexican Art had to cancel its May 8th fundraiser that would've presented the Arthur R. Velasquez Award to Adela Cepeda for her significant contributions and support. She will now be honored at next year's gala. In the meantime, the Museum asks if you can donate, please do so here. The Museum is the only one dedicated to Mexican art and accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

The Chicago Flower & Garden Show had to cancel its always anticipated event this year but they are offering new content every week online through its Get Growing channel on YouTube. Please check it out and donate if you can here.

Victory Gardens Theater will honor actor Andre De Shields at its October24 Chicago Stories Gala.

Victory Gardens Theater's "Chicago Stories" gala will be held on Saturday, October 24 at the Four Seasons. The event will honor the very talented actor/legend Andre De Shields with guest playwright and MSNBC legal analyst Jill Wine-Banks. For tickets and more info, click here!

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is offering a variety of digital content online on its CSO From Home channel. Check it out and support, if you can.

The Harris Theatre for Music & Dance, in association with the Lyric Opera, will livestream Beyond the Aria on May 11. Artistic director Craig Terry will be joined by three Lyric artists for an evening of uplifting music. Click here for more info and to watch.

The Second City, the famed comedy institution, has adapted its improvisation-based shows to create real- time, interactive and socially "together" virtual experiences available to audiences world-wide. The events are streamed for free but donations will be accepted to The Second City Alumni Fund, a resource for performers and other members of The Second City community experiencing critical health and financial challenges. Register for shows here.

The National Hellenic Museum in Chicago offers a free digital museum archive that features a rich repository of 20,000+ Greek American artifacts, photos, historic newspapers, books and more than 450 recorded oral histories to explore. This is the largest collection of its kind in the world and it's right here at your fingertips!

WTTW-WFMT's annual gala scheduled for May 6 was cancelled. It would've celebrated women on the 100th anniversary of us getting the right to vote. The theme was Trailblazers: Women Who Change the World. No info is available yet as for a new date. I'll be waiting to hear Julia!

The Adler Planetarium Women's Board had to cancel its WISS (Women in Space Science) Luncheon and is now focusing on the Celestial Ball set for September 12 at the Planetarium. Mark your calendars and check out more info here! See video of last year's spectacular Ball below!

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago has made the decision to reschedule the 71st Annual Woman's Board Ball to Saturday, November 14 at the Four Seasons Chicago. They will hold the ball as originally planned by honoring two Woman's Board Visionaries, Karen Gray-Krehbiel and the late Kim White. For more info, click here.

St. Jude's Four Stars Restaurant Extravaganza has a tentative hold on Tuesday, September 29 to hold its event, this year at a new venue The Field Museum! And the always exciting St. Jude Fashion Show, this year chaired by dear friend Ann Danner Dwyer, will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2021! Mark your calendars for both and follow along here for details.

Nothing deters The Service Club of Chicago! The annual Spring Luncheon (the hat luncheon) will now be held on Thursday, September 3, at the Drake Hotel. Co-chaired by Cathy Bartholomay, Annette Findling and Michelle Baker, the event will feature the same speaker as originally planned, Laura Dowling, who

The SC Spring Luncheon has been moved to Thursday, September 3.

served as the Chief Floral Designer at The White House. SC president Sherrill Bodine said, "These are uncharted waters but SC does have plans to continue our mission. We have survived the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, the '29 Crash, two World Wars and much more because we keep doing our job!" The nonprofit also is conducting virtual philanthropic grant sessions so help in the community will still be ongoing to those organizations who need it the most. The Day on the

SC's virtual cocktail party will be held on Thursday, May 7.

Terrace Fashion Show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions and co-chaired by Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey, Tracey DiBuono and Jamie Thorsen is still scheduled for Monday, August 3 at the Peninsula. (For more info, click here!) Also, mark your calendars for Thursday, May 7 when the SC presents its first Zoom Cocktail Party! Hosted by Nikki Friar at Marchesa Chicago, the event helps the SC support nonprofits throughout Chicagoland. There will be much camaraderie, cocktail recipes, mixology tips and, I'm sure, a lot of laughs! Click the link for more info and to purchase your ticket ($25) here! Boy, these ladies are BUSY!

Another great women's organization is hard at work making a difference in Hinsdale. The Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club (HJWC) is comprised of generous, dedicated, diligent women always asking, "How can we help?", and in unprecedented times like these, that question is coming up even more frequently. Recently, Hinsdale Hospital reached out for HJWC’s help in relation to its COVID-19 needs. The hospital shared a wish list of various medical items they desperately needed and HJWC came through to support them. Thanks to efforts from its philanthropy co-chairs Tina Weller, Dee Bauer, Ruta Brigden, Colleen Whitehead and Liz Weir, along with its executive board, HJWC was able to donate a grant of $19,210 to help purchase three handheld Echo Cardiology Machines and a Portable Patient Monitor. Kudos to all involved in this remarkable effort!

The Chicago Lighthouse will now host its "Seeing What's Possible" gala, chaired by Anida "Cookie" Cohen, on Wednesday, September 23. The event, with a Roaring '20s theme, will be held at the Four Seasons with dinner, a program and dancing to the Becca Kaufman Orchestra. It will honor David and Nancy Huber and the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences Systems. For more info, click here!

JourneyCare's "Allstars of Project Runway" event will be held on Saturday, September 26

JourneyCare's Allstars of Project Runway event is set for Saturday, Sept. 26.

at the Arlington International Racecourse. The event will raise funds and shine a spotlight on care for children and adults living with serious illness. FYI, the runway show is spectacular. Last year it was led by Chicago's own Peach Carr! For more info, click here!

The Holiday Heroes Foundation, a nonprofit led by executive director Felicia Winiecki, provides joy and entertainment to children who are seriously ill by hosting themed hospital parties. Their annual event has been pushed to September but a date hasn't yet been decided. To check details when they become available, please click here!

342Riding in Gay Pride Parade 03_441673808572_570303572_5737660_7611750_n

The thrill of a lifetime, riding in the Pride Parade on the Baton Show Lounge float.

Sadly, the much loved Pride Parade has been postponed from its June 28th date. Tim Frye, coordinator of the 2020 parade, said he hopes the event can be held in late summer or early fall and that, if it can't be rescheduled then, it will be back in 2021. Boystown's annual Pride Fest, which was planned for June 20/21, was also postponed. It has been rescheduled for Sept. 5 and 6. Yeah!!!! (Watch for updates here).

Besides the ones mentioned above, all of these following arts, dance and theater companies will provide a virtual stage for programming. They include the Joffrey Ballet, Paramount Theatre, Porchlight Music Theatre, The House Theatre of Chicago, Chicago Children's Theatre, The Neo-Futurist Theater, Lookingglass Theatre, Sideshow Theatre, Black Button Eyes Productions, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Lucky Plush Productions, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

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Congrats to TPAN (Test Positive Aware Network)! The organization's Dining Out For Life campaign, that raised funds for community-based organizations serving people living with or impacted by HIV, had to be re-imagined this year due to the Covid crisis. Bryant Dunbar (TPAN director of development), Michael Murphy (board chair), Charlie Jungwirth (manager of events and community engagement) and other team members. decided the nonprofit would still show its support for the restaurant community that has supported it for so long. TPAN encouraged supporters to take part in a Solidarity Dinner on April 30 as a way of giving back. Chuck and I ordered a

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Wilde Bar & Restaurant Solidarity Dinner carry out.

delicious dinner from Wilde Bar & Restaurant. As an added bonus, inside the carry-out bag, were two laminated cards. One had a quote from Victor Hugo, "Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise." And on another

Thoughtful inserts in carry out bag from Wilde Bar & Restaurant.

card, there was the most beautiful poem by Donna Ashworth which read, in part, "History will remember when the people sang on their balconies, in isolation but so very much together in courage and song…History will remember when the virus left and the houses opened and the people came out and hugged and kissed and started again. Kinder than before." Just beautiful!

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Cancer and Careers helps cancer patients and survivors who are navigating the job market, returning to work and/or looking for work. This nonprofit has a relationship with QVC and The Home Shopping Network and are offering an incredible sale for a contribution. The annual event, called "Beauty with Benefits," will take place on May 28 and run for 4 hours. With each purchase, regardless of how much is spent, the customer will receive a free gift valued at $230. All the brands who participate will donate the products to be sold with 80% of each purchase supporting CAC. Click here for all the details! (Thanks for the heads-up Christie Hefner!)

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Win virtual happy hours with Tom Ricketts, Rahm and ESPN’s Sarah Spain; a very rare 1973 Old Fitzgerald's 1849 8-Year bourbon; experiences at Utopian Tailgate, The Second City, Roots, Steadfast and more when you purchase a raffle ticket to benefit The Fifty/50 Restaurant Group's charity initiatives. The Food Drive Raffle will help feed those in need and, to date, has produced over 25,000 meals. Raffle tickets start at $20 (which will provide two meals for those in need), and the raffle ends at 11pm CST on Tuesday, May 12. Winners of each prize will be chosen via an online random winner selector, and winners will be notified on May 13. To see all of the items available and to purchase raffle tickets, click here!

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Designer Phil Cooper's new event planning idea, High-minded Events.

Designer Phil Cooper is on a real "high" with his new event planning idea. He has created High-minded Events, "Illinois' premiere cannabis concierge"! This new concept will take events to a whole new level! "From infused dining to creative explorations, High-minded Events will offer elevated experiences that harness the cannabis plant's ability to foster togetherness and fortify relationships," Phil shared. "Whether guests are connoisseurs or curious, we provide a tailored, smoke-free way to enhance the occasion." Good luck Phil! (For details, click here!)

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Steve and Marjorie Harvey fashionably masked.

The Chicago Sun-Times shared a very important article about face masks. Basically, it's everything you need to know about wearing them, caring for them and what types are the best for safety. The article, by Stephanie Zimmermann, states that there are three kinds of masks–N95 masks, medical or surgical masks and cloth masks. N95s block 95% of particles and medical/surgical masks filter out about 60-80% of particles. Any of these types of masks work better than a bandana. Read article here for all the details. #StaySafe #StayMasked

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Leave it to the Rolling Stones, they never miss an opportunity to stay relevant. They have released a very cool song perfectly describing the weird times we're all living through. "Living in a Ghost Town," the song and accompanying video, was written and created by Jagger and Keith Richards in London and L.A. (in isolation). Mick said, ‘‘So the Stones were in the studio recording some new material before the lockdown and there was one song we thought would resonate through the times that we’re living in right now. We’ve worked on it in isolation. And here it is – It’s called ‘Living in a Ghost Town’ – I hope you like it” Keith said, “So, let's cut a long story short. We cut this track well over a year ago in L.A. for part of a new album, an ongoing thing, and then shit hit the fan. Mick and I decided this one really needed to go to work right now and so here you have it, "Living in a Ghost Town." Stay safe!” Watch it below…..so cool!

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Happy 31st anniversary GIBSONS!

Happy 31st anniversary to Gibson's Bar & Restaurant! Chuck and I got married the same year this wonderful hotspot opened,

Frank with Tom Dreesen.

1989, and we always celebrate our anniversaries "together"! We even had our rehearsal dinner at the brand new Gibsons! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 9 when everybody's favorite comedian, Tom Dreesen, will livestream a Zoom event, in collab with the restaurant! “The Man Who Made Sinatra Laugh” will share never-before-told stories from his friendship with the legendary Frank Sinatra! For Zoom tickets, $25, click here!

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On Saturday, when the temps reached 70 and the sun came out, Chuck, Rooney and I made a break for it. We took our old Sebring convertible north on Lake Shore Drive and we didn't stop until we reached a beach. We were careful to stay outside the police barricade but we could still feel the breeze on our faces and hear the gentle lapping of the waves on the shore. It felt like we had taken a long trip but it was only 20 minutes away. It's true that this virus has forced us to stop and smell the roses. I guess out of everything bad, comes something good. For us, that trip rejuvenated us beyond belief. We had sand in our shoes and grateful hearts. I hope you get a chance to do the same.

Love, as always,

Candace

P.S. And now, a bed time story of how it started and why hindsight’s 2020.

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Tagged as Adam LeBlanc, Adler Planetarium, After School Matters, Allstars of Project Runway, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Andre De Shields, Anna D. Shapiro, Armando Vasquez, around town, arts and culture, award-winning blog, Baton Show Lounge, Beauty with Benefits, Big Shoulders Fund, Black Button Eyes Productions, blog, Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago, Bright Futures, Bryant Dunbar, Cancer and Careers, Celestial Ball, Cesar Salinas, Charlie Jungwirth, Chicago, Chicago Flower and Garden Show, Chicago House and Social Services, Chicago Lighthouse, Chicago Stories, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Children's Theatre, Cookie Cohen, Craig Terry, Day on the Terrace Fashion Show, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Derrick Lott, DJ Tracy Young, Don Phillips, Donna Ashworth, Fashion, Felicia Winiecki, fundraisers, Gary Cole, Gibsons Bar and Restaurant, Giordano Dance Chicago, Gus Giordano Day, Harris Theatre for Music and Dance, High-minded Events, Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club, Holiday Heroes, Holly Buckendahl, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Isaac Gomez, Jamie Thorsten, Jean Antoniou, Jill Wine-Banks, Joan Allen, Joey DiBuono, Joffrey Ballet, John Malkovich, John Tufts, Josh Hale, JourneyCare, Kathleen Sarpy, Kathy Piccone, La Scarola, Larry Yando, Laura Dowling, Laurie Metcalf, Living in a Ghost Town, Lookingglass Theatre, Lucky Plush Productions, Marchesa Chicago, Michael McStraw, Michael Murphy, Nan Giordano, National Hellenic Museum, National Museum of Mexican Art, Nick Lynch, Nikki Friar, nonprofits, Pants Optional, Paramount Theatre, parties, Peach Carr, Phil Cooper, photos, Pizano's Pizza, Porchlight Music Theatre, Pride Parade, Q Brothers, Queens of Six, QVC, Ray Leeper, Reach for the Stars, Rick Bayless, Rolling Stones, Ronald McDonald, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Sandra Marquez, Service Club of Chicago, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Sharyl Mackey, Sherrill Bodine, Sideshow Theatre, Sixteen Candles, Sneaker Ball, Social scene, Spoken Four, St. Jude, Stephanie Zimmermann, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Test Positive Award Network, The Fifty/50 Restaurant Group, The House Theatre of Chicago, The Neo-Futurist Theater, The Second City, things to do, Tina Weller, Tom Dreesen, TPAN, Tracey DiBuono, Tufano's, Tufano's Vernon Park Tap, Victory Gardens Theater, videos, virtual galas, Wilde Bar & Restaurant

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

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

April 29, 2019 · 12:47 pm

GIBSONS CELEBRATES 30 IN STYLE TO BENEFIT MISERICORDIA

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

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Legendary Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse turns 30!

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

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

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

With Misericordia's Lois Gates and Sister Rosemary Connelly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congrats Peg and Steve Lombardo!

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

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Joffrey Community Engagement dancers and Academy of Dance students performed.

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

UNgala Experience_Photo Credit Vin Reed (14)

Performance artists everywhere you looked!

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

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

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

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

Jack Andrews Chili Pepper_Photo Credit Dan Rest

Jack Andrews with Chilli Pepper (Photo by Dan Rest)

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

Levoi Brown Erin Brown_Photo Credit Dan Rest

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

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

Yuka Iwai Hansol Jeong_ Photo Credit Dan Rest

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

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

Anne Kaplan Dia Weil_Photo Credit Dan Rest

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

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

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

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

Diego Rocha, Devin Marshall and Chris Schmidt.

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

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

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

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

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

Raphael Sangel and honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek.

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

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

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

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

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

Kristin Atchison and cute friend on the dance floor.

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

Cute party guests!

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

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Final Throne Chicago,809 W. Evergreen. OMG!

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

The Night King at Final Throne Chicago.

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

Khal Drogo and Daenerys greeting guests at Final Throne Chicago.

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

Mother of Dragons wanna be.

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

Final Throne Chicago

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

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Ocean Prime, awesome at 87 E. Wacker Drive.

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

Ocean Prime

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

Ocean Prime's beautiful art deco inspired decor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Husband/wife performers Shanna VanDerwerker and Justin Brill.

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

PMT Board of Directors.

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

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

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

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

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

With show producer Nena Ivon and her fabulous models.

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

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

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

Debut party entertainment provided by Ken Arlen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Superhero Howard Tullman.

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

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

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Beautiful birthday lady Jennifer Sutton Brieva celebrating at Marchesa.

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

Party girls!

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

Party boys!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WTF?

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

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

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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Schrock, Cheryl Lynn Bruce, Chicago Academy of Sciences, Chicago Antique Market, Chicago Cubs, Chicagoland, Children’s Oncology Services, Chris Hendel, Christina Thomas, Cirque du Soleil, City Winery, Claire Gegorie, Colette Cachey Smithburg, Community Spirit Award, Connections for Abused Women and their Children, Corri McFadden, Courtney Thompson, CS Magazine’s Men of Style, D.C. Crenshaw, Dante’s Danny V., David Blowers, David Fox, David P. Hackett, Deann Bayless, Debi Lilly, Deborah Lahey, Deborah Quazzo, Deputy Mayor Steve Koch, Desiree Rogers, Diana Rauner, Discovery Ball, DJ Madrid, DJ Matt Roan, DJ Rock City, DJ Swaguerilla, DJ Sye Young, Domesticated, Donna Gustafsson, Dr. Bombay, Dr. Ghabit, Dr. Julius Few, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Stacie McClane Michelson, E.J. 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. Todd Freeman, Kate Arrington, Kelly Hackett, Kelly Walsh, Kerry Wood, Kevin Anderson, King Harris, Kiton, Kori Chambers, Kyle De Santis, Laura Michalchyshyn, Laura Ricketts, Laurie Metcalf, Leonard Goldberg, Limelight Catering, Lin Brehmer, Lincoln Park 2550, Linda Johnson Rice, Linda Lowy, Liz Doran, Liz Lefkofsky, Lois Smith, Loro Piana, Lou Gehrig, Luann Blowers, Macy’s Passport Presents, Make-A-Wish Ball, Mamie Case, Man’s Store, Marc Levin, Marcus Riley, Maria C. Bechily, Maria Smithburg, Mark Benjamin, Marko Iglendza, Martha Lavey, Martin Short, Marty Higgins, Mary Ann Rose, Mary Beth Canfield, Mary Dempsey, Mary F. Morten, Mary Finnegan, Matthew Singer, Michael Cole, Michael Davis, Michael Leppen, Michael Sacks, Michael Shannon, Michele Doyle, Michelle Rabkin, Mickey Mantle, Mike & Molly, Mike Cao, Milesh Jain, Mission Possible, Modern Family, Modern Vintage Chicago, Nate Berkus, Neal Zucker, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, Nemo Serges, Nick Bowling, NoMI, Nora Daley, Nora Dunn, Noreen Heron, Northern Trust, Northstar Lottery Group, Of Mice and Men, Omar Barragan, One Step At A Time Summer Camp, Ozzie Guillen, Ozzie Guillen Foundation, Pam MacKinnon, Paul Finnegan, Paula Fasseas, Paula Mallicoat, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Penny Pritzker, Peter Doyle, Peter Fasseas, Phil Canfield, Primo Center for Women and Children, Ralph Lauren Black Label, Randolph Street Market, Randy Lyon, Rebecca Finnegan, Rescue Our Angels, Revae Schneider, Richard Turner, Richard Wright, Rick Bayless, Rick Kogan, Rick Waddell, Rino Burdi, Robert Breuler, Robert Reford, Ron Kittle, Ron Magers, Ron Mallicoat, Ronald McDonald, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Rondi Reed, Ryan Baker, Ryan Chiaverini, Sally Murphy, Sarah Schmidt, Saturday Night Live, Savour Nature, Scandal, Scott Ramsay, Sean Pharr, Shaken Not Stirred, Sheryl Crow, Stan Green, Stefano Ricci, Stephanie Izard, Stephen Quazzo, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Steve Sullivan, Steve Traxler, Stout, Studio Paris, Susan Whiting, Swirlz, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Tea for Tots, Terry Kinney, The Business, The Dinner Party, The Good Wife, The Underground Goat, The Wheel, Theory, Tiffany & Co., Tim Hopper, Timeline Theatre, Tina Landau, Tom Ford, Tom Smithburg, Tony Goldwyn, Tracy Letts, Tracy Mansur, Trisha Rooney Alden, Under One Green Roof, Uptown United, Val Warner, Victor Skrebneski, Vosges, Wendy Krimins, Whitney Reynolds, William Petersen, Willie Mays, Windy City Live, Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus, Yasen Peyankov, Zegna

June 4, 2012 · 12:59 pm

CAMPFIRE BALL SPURS MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD FOR SUPPORTERS AND HOPE FOR KIDS WITH CANCER

…PLUS CAA’S HARRIS THEATRE BLOW-OUT, VIPS GALORE AT BUTTERFLY BALL, RASHIED DAVIS – A CHAMPION FOR KIDS TOO, EMBEYA COMES TO WEST LOOP, A VICTORIAN BALL, CHICAGO’S PERSONAL BRANDS, CHICAGO MISCONCEPTIONS, CHEFS & THE CITY’S KICK-OFF TO PRIDE AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Memorial Day weekend came and went before I even knew it. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that it was also my birthday, but I do know I wish it would’ve lasted longer. I want to thank everyone who sent birthday wishes. I feel so lucky to have such wonderful friends – you know who you are!

And now, what’s been happening around town? Well, first off, I want to give a shout-out to one of the coolest charity events around, The Campfire Ball. I had never heard of this until I received the press release (and believe me, if I don’t respond to some of your emails, it’s because my inbox is filled with these but I’m not complaining!) and what attracted me to this fundraiser was its description. How many adults wouldn’t like to relive a part of their childhood, especially the part where you’re camping, eating s’mores over a fire and drinking spiked bug juice!? I was intrigued and did a little further research and after I found out what this event benefitted, I was completely and totally hooked. The Campfire Ball supports Children’s Oncology Services and through its One Step Programs, helps send kids with cancer to camp. Their philosophy is “a diagnosis of cancer should not prevent a child from experiencing the simple joys of childhood.” Hundreds celebrated this night at Venue One with décor reminiscent of northern Wisconsin. Even the signs pointing to the “lake” and the “cabins” were scribbled on wood. And the food! Oh my! Cork Catering served gourmet versions of grilled cheese sandwiches and hot dogs. Sprinkles served mini s’more cupcakes and Theory offered smoked pork sandwiches. The honey, bacon and jalapeno popcorn from Bridgehouse Tavern was out of this world! Co-chair Jordan (Jordi) Izsak had this to say: “Every year I am more and more impressed with the showing of support Campfire Ball garners. Our guests and donors deserve a round of applause for making such a huge impact on the One Step At A Time programs. I was beside myself Saturday night to see a packed house and know that every person there was helping us reach our goal of raising $100,000 and sending 100 kids to camp!” The summer camp hosts nearly 300 children but the beautiful thing about Children’s Oncology Services is that they help offset the financial burden of the cost of camp for families that need it. Lynn Rubin, a counselor and cancer survivor describes her experience this way, “I�
�ve been involved with One Step Camp for six years. I’m a camp counselor, a program leader and a cancer survivor. One Step Camp holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a magical place where kids with cancer can just be kids. They can be themselves without judgment and just enjoy life without thinking about being sick. I volunteer at camp to help these kids have the best summer of their lives, but actually, they have helped me so much more. They have taught me about life, strength and happiness. I will always be a volunteer at One Step Camp. I’m a lifer. Peace. Love. Camp.” During the evening DJ Matt Roan kept the dance floor filled and the wildly popular Digital Photobooth by MVS Studio projected cute guests’ photos on the walls throughout the night. Local media celebrities guest bartended and included NBC 5’s Lauren Jiggetts, former Chicago Bear and sports personality Jerry Azumah, FOX’s Kori Chambers, Time Out Chicago’s Marissa Conrad, Jason Goff from The SCORE/CBS radio and Ed Swiderski, winner from “The Bachelorette” Season 5. Nine-year-old Maggie Conlon, whose cancer has been in remission for nearly eight years, said, “I loved camp so much that my counselors called my parents to ask if I could stay an extra week.” She is already counting down to her next visit. The after party continued at RPM Italian (RJ and Jerrod Melman and Giuliana and Bill Rancic’s new restaurant). And the parting gift for guests? Why, a box of Campfire matches, of course! Congrats to co-chairs Rachel Drescher, Jordi Izsak and Michelle Weiler on a job well done – the event raised more than $114,000! (Photos by Mitchell Canoff and Steve Starr. To learn more about this wonderful charity, please visit www.onestepcamp.org.)

The 30th anniversary celebration for the Chicago Academy of the Arts featured top chefs and student performances at the Harris Theater on May 10th and attracted more than 530 guests. The night began with a video montage of students, past and present, speaking about the CAA and what it meant to them. Emcee Bill Kurtis introduced Head of School Pamela Jordan, who had this to say: “At CAA, we want our students ready for collaborative opportunities that the 21st century will offer. Our plans include an upgraded recording studio, a refurbished science lab, incorporating SKYPE into classrooms and building a state-of-the-art creative lab. We now have a global program, a student composed full length opera performed by professional artists, a student directed and produced 90 minute film and the CAA Repertory Dance Company.” Student/alumni performances included musical theater soloist Eleri Ward, soprano Jessica Oliver, and classical pianist Su Jin Kang. The performances opened and closed with the CAA Repertory Dance Company. Rock band Semi Precious Weapons, featuring front man Justin Tranter, performed a high-energy number that had the crowd on its feet. This group opened for Lady Gaga during her 2009-2011 Monster Ball Tour but Tranter said, “I’ve told more stories about the CAA than Lady Gaga!” Following the performances, guests moved to the Millennium Park Rooftop Terrace where Chef Rick Bayless (an event host with wife Deann, Donna LaPietra and Bill Kurtis) had assembled a culinary team who had all been featured on Bravo’s “Top Chef.” It included chefs Sarah Grueneberg, Tony Mantuano, Stephanie Izard, Chris Jones, Richie Farina, Dale Levitski, Amanda Rockman, Heather Terhune and Takashi Yagihashi. Bayless quipped, “You will not see a group of this caliber together in one place, for one night, anywhere else in Chicago!” Stephen Flach and Chris Fryson were the event co-chairs and Barbara Levy Kipper was the civic chair. The event raised more than $460,000 for the organization. Founded by Essie Kupcinet in 1981, The CAA was designated a National School of Distinction and remains the only independent arts high school in Illinois. This year marks the CAA’s 30th anniversary. (Photos by Bob Carl and Jennifer Girard.)

More than 70 Chicago-area girls ages 6 to 16 strutted their stuff down the catwalk on a mission to help other children suffering from serious illnesses at a benefit for the Comer Children’s Hospital. Development Board members and “Frankie’s on the Park,” a Lincoln Park children’s boutique, teamed up to host the second annual Girls Spring Fashion Show & Tea at the Women’s Athletic Club. "Windy City Live" stylist Eric Himel emceed the show with proceeds from the event supporting medical research and advances in patient care at Comer Children’s Hospital. Awwwww…future super models in training! (For more pics, please click here.)

Chicago’s civic and corporate leaders filled the tent for the 14th annual Butterfly Ball benefitting the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Themed “Tour de Nature,” this event celebrated the museum’s popular new exhibition “Bikes! The Green Revolution” and embodied its commitment to be the urban gateway to nature and science. This year’s co-chairs were Rita and John Canning (who also recently co-chaired the Big Shoulders Fund benefit) along with Susan Whiting. Vendors for the ball were chosen for their creative and vibrant commitment to being environmentally responsible with the flowers dotting the event being repurposed in the Woodward Wickham Butterfly Garden. The stunning décor by Event Creative included butterfly images projected throughout the tent and painted bicycles hanging from every light pole. ABC 7’s Linda Yu served as the charming emcee, even wearing a butterfly pin to prove her commitment. Senior Curator of Urban Ecology Steve Sullivan hosted a Q & A and showcased specimens from the museum’s collection that included a prairie chicken. Sullivan said, “There is an interesting and sad history here with the prairie chicken being very prevalent 100 years ago and now down to a few dozen in Illinois.” Calihan Catering prepared a seasonal menu for the black tie crowd with guests meandering throughout the museum following dinner. The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven was my favorite. The fabulous Lynne Jordan & the Shivers kept the dance floor filled. Besides co-chairs Rita and John Canning and Susan Whiting, other notables seen at the gala included Toni Preckwinkle, Deborah Lahey, Gery Chico, Vi and Vince Daley, Sharon Walton and John Burns, Jacky and Michael Ferro (who is remaking the Sun-Times), Diana and Steve Ferrara, Francee and Vern Broders, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Libby Prakel, Steve Connell, Marc Miller, Chris Horsman and Anne Pramaggiore (with her darling son). On this night, $1.6 million was raised and more than 272,000 people visited the museum over the course of last year. (To view more pics from this event, please click here!)

Rashied Davis, former wide receiver for the Chicago Bears, had some fabulous moves on the field but he’s proving he’s got what it takes in the world of philanthropy, too! Rashied Davis Charities is hosting its annual charity cocktail event to support and promote literacy among children. “Cocktails for Brighter Tomorrows” will take place June 5th, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Rockit Bar & Grill (22 W. Hubbard St.) with WLS ABC 7 sports reporter/anchor Rafer Weigel emceeing. Several of Davis’ former teammates will be on hand to lend support including Lance Briggs, Brian Urlacher (maybe he’ll bring Jenny!), Earl Bennet and Jerry Azumah. The proceeds raised at this event will benefit the Saturday Place Program, a supplemental educational program for third and fourth grade CPS students who are underperforming. Tickets start at $75. (To purchase tix and for more info, please click here and or more info about Rashied Davis Charities, please click here.)

On Wednesday, June 13th, Rape Victims Advocates (RVA) will honor those individuals who have given hope to sexual assault survivors at the 8th Visionary Awards themed Legacy of Hope. This high-energy gala at Salvage One, located at 1840 W. Hubbard, will pay posthumous tribute to RVA’s founder, Dr. Natalie Stephens. Tom and Mary Seeberg will be honored with the Dr. Natalie Stephens Visionary Award along with RVA volunteers, past and present. (Seeberg’s daughter Elizabeth, aka “Lizzy,” tragically committed suicide after a sexual assault and the Seebergs have been adamant in their pursuit of truth, justice and accountability on behalf of their daughter.) The RVA has been doing important work in the city for 38 years with 100 volunteer advocates on call 24/7 for 14 Chicagoland hospitals. Val Warner of "Windy City Live" will emcee. A high-end silent and live auction, illustrations by Rosemary Fanti and a raffle will round out the evening. (Tickets are $95. For more info, please visit www.rapevictimsadvocates.org.)

Congratulations are in order for the handsome former VP of Operations for the Elysian, Attila Gyulai (pronounced like the month July): He and Executive Chef Thai Dang (formerly the chef at the Elysian’s Ria) are teaming up to open a new restaurant this summer in the West Loop, at 564 W. Randolph, called Embeya. The cuisine will be “progressive Asian.” We wish them luck and I can’t wait to become a regular!

And now for something completely different! Channel your inner Lady Elizabeth and Master James at the Victorian Ball on June 15th at the stunning Stan Mansion. Founder Laura Elvis has outdone herself to create an elegant event with proceeds benefitting Chicago Lost and Found and their efforts to raise funds to support artists and art organizations. The red carpet will be hosted by Jen Knoedl (Jen Chicago) and NBC’s Marcus Riley. Guests will enjoy a spectacle of exhibits by local Scott Thompson, a pop-up boutique by Chicago Lost & Found and fashion designers galore! There will be classical presentations including violins and harps, character mimes, dancing waltzes and opera singing by reigning Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit. Unleash the sassy Victorian with DJ Lego and enjoy cocktails and delectable dishes. This event is produced by handsome Benjamin Cottrell with soon-to-be-seen photos courtesy of Kirsten Miccoli. Generous contributors to the Ball include Shari Duffy, Cera Stan, Ramsey J. Prince and April Padilla with custom looks provided by Anna G. Costumes. Tickets are only $50 for this night of delicious decadence for a great cause – get more info here and here!)

A special thanks to TCW magazine for including me in their cover story “70 Chicago Personal Brands.” I never thought I would see my name on the same list as Michael Jordan! (Click here to see the 69 other Chicago Personal Brands but, better yet, check out this cool Chicago-centric magazine and see the whole issue for yourself here!!

The amazing event production duo of Cece & Melinda has done it again: They had so many hits on their recent idea that you would have to be living on the moon not to have seen it! Titled “Chicago Misconceptions,” this article asks 30 Chicagoans to reveal a misconception about themselves. The list includes fellow Watch312 host Amanda Puck, Marcus Riley, Billy Dec, Corri McFadden, WGN’s Nancy Loo, Catie Keogh, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Sarah Vargo, Kelly Zink, Hope Bertram, Ryan Beshel, Margaret O’Connor, Kerry and Sally Shorr, Marco Foster and Rachel Schwanz among others! Check it ALL out here! Thanks so much for including me, Cece & Melinda! Their next big event is the annual “50 & Beautiful Fashion Show” at the Drake Hotel on Wednesday, July 18th from 6 to 10 p.m For more info, please click here!

Don’t miss this year’s Chefs & the City’s culinary series event “Kick-Off to Pride” on Sunday, June 10th, at Anteprima Restaurant, located at 5316 N. Clark St. Hosted by Khoa Ho, William Hail, John Piecha, Peter Alving, David Sanchez, Alan Harder and Stewart Smith, this brunch will include a delectable buffet, champagne, martinis and Bloody Marys! What more could you ask for!? Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Michelle at 773.271.9161. (All proceeds benefit Vital Bridges’ services for people living with HIV/AIDS.)

In the “I can’t believe it” file, runaway bride Crystal Harris – aka the girl who dumped Hef at the altar – is moving back in with him at the Mansion. He tweeted on May 31st, “Getting back together with Crystal Harris shouldn't be a big surprise, since I have a history of remaining close to former girlfriends.” And recently, on June 2nd, he tweeted, “It's Mary O'Conner that brought Crystal Harris back. Crystal was miserable & said so. Mary told Crystal to write & tell me, which she did.” So there you have it. No comment.

Congratulations to handsome restaurateur Manolis Alpogianis on his newest venture at Navy Pier! City Porch, a chic yet comfortable dining spot, is just what the place needs! Enough of the burger joints – finally something sleek with an extensive and delectable menu to match! Plus, I loved the Adirondack chairs out front for viewing the fireworks. This place is sure to be a hit on the dining scene and will even feature guest celeb chefs each month to add their specialties to the menu! Congrats, Manolis!

And last but not least, one of my “Candid Candace Chicago” segments on Watch312.com has been submitted for Emmy consideration. In this case, it’s an honor just to be submitted! To see the segment, please click here.

Love to you and yours and I hope your Memorial Day weekend holiday gave you a shot of adrenaline for the summer ahead!

Love always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Hope to see you at Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party on Friday, June 8th! American English, a Beatles cover band, will provide top-notch entertainment along with lots of surprises at this hot, new venue Greenhouse Loft, located at 2545 W. Diversey, from 7 to 11 p.m. Check out the Glam Host Committee and come out and join us!!!

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Tagged as 50 & Beautiful Fashion Show, 70 Chicago Personal Brands, Alan Harder, Amanda Puck, Amanda Rockman, American English, Anna G. Costumes, Anne Pramaggiore, Anteprima Restaurant, April Padilla, Attila Gyulai, Barbara Levy Kipper, Benjamin Cottrell, Bikes! The Green Revolution, Bill Kurtis, Bill Rancic, Billy Dec, Bob Carl, Bravo, Brian Urlacher, Bridgehouse Tavern, Butterfly Ball, CAA Repertory Dance Company, Calihan Catering, Campfire Ball, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Catie Keogh, Cece & Melinda, Cera Stan, Chef Thai Dang, Chefs & the City, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Chicago Academy of the Arts, Chicago Bears, Chicago Lost and Found, Chicago Misconceptions, Chicago Sun-Times, Children’s Oncology Services, Chris Fryerson, Chris Horsman, Chris Jones, City Porch, Cocktails for Brighter Tomorrows, Cocomori, Comer Children’s Hospital, Cork Catering, Corri McFadden, Crystal Harris, Dale Levitski, David Sanchez, Deann Bayless, Deborah Lahey, Diana Ferrara, Digital Photobooth by MVS Studio, DJ Lego, Donna LaPietra, Dr. Natalie Stephens, Drake Hotel, Earl Bennet, Ed Swiderski, Eleri Ward, Elizabeth Seeberg, Elysian Hotel, Embeya, Emmy awards, Eric Himel, Essie Kupcinet, Event Creative, Francee Borders, Frankie’s On The Park, Gery Chico, Girls Spring Fashion Show and Tea, Giuliana Rancic, Glamorama, Greenhouse Loft, Heather Terhune, Hope Bertram, Hugh Hefner, Jacky Ferro, Jason Goff, Jen Chicago, Jen Knoedl, Jennifer Girard, Jerrod Melman, Jessica Oliver, John Burns, John Canning, John Piecha, Jordan Izsak, Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, Justin Tranter, Kelly Zink, Kerry Shorr, Khoa Ho, Kick-Off to Pride, Kirsten Miccoli, Kori Chambers, Lady Elizabeth, Lady Gaga, Lance Briggs, Laura Elvis, Lauren Jiggets. Jerry Azumah, Legacy of Hope, Libby Prakel, Linda Yu, Lynn Jordan & the Shivers, Lynn Rubin, Macy's, Maggie Conlon, Manolis Alpogianis, Marc Miller, Marco Foster, Marcus Riley, Margaret O’Connor, Marianberry, Marissa Conrad, Mary Seeberg, Master James, Matt Roan, Memorial Day, Michael Ferro, Michael Jordan, Michelle Weiler, Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit, Mitchell Canoff, Monster Ball, Nancy Loo, Navy Pier, One Step Programs, Pamela Jordan, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Peter Alving, Rachel Drescher, Rachel Schwanz, Rafer Weigel, Ramsey J. Prince, Rape Victims Advocates, Rashied Davis, Rashied Davis Charities, Raymi Productions, Ria, Richie Farina, Rick Bayless, Rita Canning, RJ Melman, Rockit Bar & Grill, Rosemary Fanti, RPM Italian, Ryan Beshel, Sally Shorr, Salvage One, Sarah Grueneberg, Sarah Vargo, Saturday Place Program, Scott Thompson, Semi Precious Weapons, Shari Duffy, Sharon Walton, Sprinkles, Stan Mansion, Stephanie Izard, Stephen Frach, Steve Connell, Steve Ferrara, Steve Starr, Steve Sullivan, Stewart Smith, Su Jin Kang, Susan Whiting, Takashi Yagihashi, TCW, Theory, Tom Seeberg, Toni Preckwinkle, Tony Mantuano, Top Chef, Tour de Nature, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Val Warner, Vern Broders, Vi Daley, Victorian Ball, Vince Daley, Visionary Awards, Vital Bridges, Watch312.com, William Hail, Windy City Live, Women’s Athletic Club, Woodward Wickham Butterfly Garden

May 3, 2012 · 10:11 am

STARS SHINE IN CHICAGO FOR THE HUGO TELEVISION AWARDS

…PLUS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS’ GRANDE SOIREE, CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY, LADYBUG BASH, A THEATER COMPANY YOU SHOULD KNOW, WTTW DEBUT'S HOT NEW SHOW, NOMI’S HOT LIST HONOR, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Beyond the International Film Festival and now in its 48th year, the Hugo Television Awards is an international television competition that culminated in a grand gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua recently honoring the best television commercials and productions from nine countries around the world. Co-hosted by Cinema/Chicago and the IFF, the highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to actor Kelsey Grammer. Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Grammer included video highlights and the award presentation by his longtime "Frasier" co-star, John Mahoney. Earlier in the year, Grammer received the Golden Globe for Best Actor in the Chicago-based drama series “Boss” as Mayor Tom Kane. As Dr. Frasier Crane, he played the celebrated character in three television series ("Wings," "Cheers," and "Frasier") for more than 20 years. He’s won four Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations and 16 SAG nominations and he is the first actor in TV history to receive multiple Emmy nods for performing the same role on three series! (Not surprising, since he received his training at the prestigious Juilliard School of the Performing Arts.) Michael Kutza, founder and artistic director of Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago IFF, said, “For decades Kelsey Grammer has entertained us — across genres and media he has proven himself to be a remarkable talent. From the stage to the screen, from behind the camera to our television, Grammer has provided audiences with some of our most beloved, iconic characters. We are thrilled to honor him for his television work at the Hugos.” Judging from the banks of media at the event, everyone agreed! We could barely squeeze our Watch312.com cameras onto the red carpet but we managed to get some great interviews with Mahoney, Grammer and Grammer’s “Boss” co-star Rotimi Akinosho. Kelsey was accompanied by his beautiful wife, Kayte (whose name he had tattooed on his abdomen that day to much fanfare), and who is expecting twins. She couldn’t have been more gracious and when he was asked what his inspiration was replied, “She is.” They never stopped holding hands and he kissed her at every opportunity. It was so sweet. Following the red carpet, guests were ushered into the ballroom after enjoying a cocktail reception. Darling co-hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (of “Windy City Live”) welcomed the crowd of 400 and introduced event founder, Michael Kutza, who said, “It was funny thinking back to 1965 when Mr. Leo Burnett himself helped me start the TV Festival and to see so many awards going to some fantastic Leo Burnett spots tonight!” Leo Burnett had the most wins of the evening (24), winning Silver Hugos for “Active Duty” (a heartwarming Hallmark commercial) and “Mayhem” (a series of Allstate commercials featuring actor Dean Winters). Other top winners included a Gold Hugo for the documentary series, “Have You Heard from Johannesburg” (about anti-apartheid in South Africa) directed by Connie Field. Director Magdalena Lazarkiewicz (“The Deep End”) traveled all the way from Poland to receive her Gold Hugo in the Dramatic Series category. David Hyde Pierce also made a surprise video appearance telling Grammer, “I’m so frustrated that you’re there tonight being honored and I can’t stop them!” (He went on to say that he did hope Grammer ran for office.) Production company powerhouse Optimus won the Commitment to Excellence Award while the Audience Choice award went to Burrell Communications for “A Frosty Affair,” a McDonald’s commercial about meeting someone special over a McFrappe. The after-party continued in the Felini Bar with everyone from Hugo winners to John Mahoney taking turns in the photo booth. Event producer Alex Kopecky did a great job putting the whole show together and Carol Fox and Associates’ Carly Leviton and Nick Harkin did an outstanding job as well. I can’t wait to see the surprises Michael Kutza brings to Chicago next! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and be sure to check out our Watch312.com video of this cool event below!)

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Legendary jewelers, Van Cleef & Arpels, recently hosted “une grande soiree” for 100 lucky Chicagoans to celebrate the opening of their beautiful new boutique in the Drake Hotel. Van Cleef & Arpels’ handsome president/CEO of the Americas and worldwide creative director Nicolas Bos and chic store director Sheryl Dyer were on hand to meet guests and wax poetic about this iconic brand that has been a favorite of celebrities and royalty for decades. Nicolas Luchsinger (VP of retail operations for the Americas), Brent Nestor (senior VP of sales) and Kristina Buckley (VP of communications) also flew in for this grand occasion. For over a century, the Place Vendome location has been at the forefront with a signature style and a mastery of the craft of fine jewelry inspired by the longstanding themes of the House, nature, couture and the arts. I was so proud that Watch312 was the exclusive media outlet for this event. As high-profile guests mixed and mingled in the exquisite jewel box boutique, it was the jewelry that was the star of the night. The pieces are never as they seem, with earrings that can be worn as brooches, necklaces that can be reassembled into bracelets or the famous zip necklace that is an engineering marvel, all of the jewelry is created with extreme attention to detail and of the highest quality gems and stones. I was thrilled to wear an exquisite necklace and earring set from Oiseaux de Paradis Volutes collection for the night and felt like Cinderella until the very end when I turned back into a pumpkin. It is true that high jewelry is empowering…I even felt taller. 🙂 The event was co-hosted by the lovely MaryAnne Smith, a champion of the soon-to-be-opened Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Children’s Hospital on June 26th, and Lesli Falk, chair of Children Memorial’s Medical Research Institute Council. After cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the boutique, guests were led to the Palm Court which had been transformed by Tom Kehoe into a Parisian salon complete with languid models draped over ivory chairs in chic gowns created by French designer Gaspard Yurkievich. In earlier times, women’s fashions were designed to match their jewelry as was the case on this night. Factor models floated around the room showcasing millions of dollars’ worth of exquisite gems to appreciative guests as they sipped champagne in this flower-filled room to the sounds of a string quartet. It was truly surreal. And as if this weren’t enough, we were then ushered into the Gold Coast Room for the main event. Sharp intakes of breath emanated from every guest upon seeing this already magnificent room transformed as if for Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee dinner! I’ve never seen anything like it. A long, single table was brimming with flowers, candles, crystal and silver while the sparkling chandeliers above had been dimmed and spotlighted with pale colored lights. The room literally glowed…I heard several people mumbling that “had they known this event would be like this, they would’ve dressed better!” And the menu seemed to be something that would be served at Buckingham Palace, too, beginning with quenelles of Lake Erie Pike, diver scallops, morel mushrooms and Beluga caviar. Main course: Kobe Filet and foie gras, local farmed asparagus, haricot verts, roasted shallot pommes Dauphines with Bordeaux reduction. Dessert included a trio of miniature desserts, charlotte russe, hand churned salted caramel ice cream and passion fruit crème brulee. (And the sweetest part, pun intended, the plates all carried this message: “To Chicago, Love Paris.”) Wines served featured Pascal Jolivet, Sancerre (Loire France 2010), Chapoutier Estate “La Petite Ruche” (Crozes Hermitage 2007) and, of course, Taittinger Brut La Francaise (Champagne NV). Guests enjoying the evening and admiring the collections included William Wolf, Martha Melman, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Laura Schwartz, Greg Hyder, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Suzy and Al Friedman, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Carol Beitler, Heather Farley, Paul Rehder, Greg Hyder, Toni and Rick Canada, Susanna Negovan, Mary and Tim Smithe, Heather Farley, Sherren Leigh and Sonya Jackson among others. The new 1,600-square-foot boutique is designed to resemble a luxurious Parisian apartment in muted shades of white and grey. You have to see it to believe it! Long may you reign Van Cleef & Arpels! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here for more!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D39776%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Chicago’s second annual Red Dress Party was held in the Loop recently at the beautiful Joffrey Towers, located at 10 E. Randolph. More than 300 people donned their favorite red fashions to benefit the Aids Foundation of Chicago and the Equality Project. This party began in the 1990's when two gentlemen who were dating discovered they had both contracted HIV/AIDS. They swore to one another they would each wear red dresses to their partner's funeral. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently, there are Red Dress parties all over the U.S. from Seattle to Chicago. The highlight of the evening was a performance by Beverly McClellan, who was a contestant in the Final 4 on the first season of the popular NBC show, “The Voice.” “The Voice” introduced Beverly to the world as a singer of stunning power and range comparable to Etta James, Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge to name a few talents whose legacies she evokes. The party also included a dramatic aerial act and a decadent VIP Red Carpet reception hosted by the beloved Miss Lucy Foozie. Ginger Zee (“Good Morning America” meteorologist) and actor/singer Christian Carabias were the hosts for the evening. Event chair and board president Kyler Ashton Powell sang a memorable duet with McClellan to Cee Lo Green’s “F*ck You” song. Dedicated host committee members included Adiat Baker, Katie Cahnmann, Kyle Hillman, Terrence Chappell, Marco Foster, Julianne Glatz, Cece Gonzales, Melinda Joseph, Haley Lertola, Jerry Nunn, Ramsey Jay Prince, Arabel Alva Rosales, Mark Roscoe and Hilary Schwartz. (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here and to donate and learn more about this great cause, please visit www.reddressparty.org.)

Don’t miss this year’s second annual Ladybug Bash, “Stars & Cars: Hollywood Through the Ages” on Thursday, May 17th at Grossinger City Autoplex, located at 1530 N. Dayton from 7 to 11 p.m. This event benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, which was named after a small, brave princess named Atia, a patient undergoing cancer treatment at Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago. Out of concern for the various non-medical necessities of Comer’s patients and their families, Project Ladybug Fund was established to help meet some of those needs, in the hopes of improving the lives of patients and their families. The event will include a red carpet reception hosted by Project Ladybug founder Dina Manzo with special guests Ana Belaval (WGN’s “Around Town” reporter), Meg Caswell (host of HGTV’s “Meg’s Great Rooms”), Ted Brunson (producer and host of WGN’s “Chicago’s Best,” Alpana Singh (host of WTTW’s “Check Please”), Amber Podell (Ms. Illinois 2012) and Nancy To (Miss Illinois 2012). For tickets and more info, please click here!

Congrats to the Polarity Ensemble Theatre group on a wonderful production of "Tom Jones" at Wicker Park’s Josephinum Academy. Adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer, the six-week run garnered wonderful press from the Chicago Tribune as well as Time Out Chicago! Polarity Ensemble Theatre was founded in 2004 by Richard Engling, Ann Keen and Irv Gorman with the mission of presenting work consisting of the classic and the brand new. It is dedicated to working with Chicago area writers and theatre artists. In addition to producing live theatre, Polarity is also a publisher, having produced its first volume of plays in 2006. Its production of "Hamlet" at the Athenaeum Theater prompted the Chicago Reader to name Polarity the 2008 Best Emerging Theatre Company. Congrats to Charley Jordan and the entire, amazing cast! To follow upcoming PET events, please click here!

More congratulations are in order for the NoMI Spa at the Park Hyatt! Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List – the ultimate insider’s guide to the hottest new hotels, spas and restaurants of the year – has included NoMI Spa in the May issue! To celebrate this recognition, a complimentary glass of champagne will be offered to guests booking spa appointments during the month of May! Just mention #HotList2012 upon booking your appointment! Congrats, congrats, congrats!

There are more parties, fundraisers and events coming up this week than I’ve ever seen! Mark your calendars for the following, if you have the energy!

Thursday May 3rd: Common Threads' “Come Paint It Black Tie” Fundraiser will be held at Nellcote, located at 833 W. Randolph. Tickets are $1,000; visit www.commonthreads.org for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala will be held at Palmer House Hilton beginning with a 6:30 p.m. performance at the Auditorium Theatre and followed by the Gala Dinner, Arpino Angel Award presentation and commemorative video salute. For the first time, the Women’s Board will partner with the Junior Auxiliary Board for a Grand Finale Party following in the Empire Room to celebrate the end of the season for all of the dancers. Tickets are $600 for Gala and $110 for the Grand Finale Party; visit www.joffrey.org/gala and www.joffrey.org/grandefinale for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: See Tom Dreesen’s “Sinatra” at the Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway, for an evening of standup and storytelling of Sinatra. Tickets are $45; call 773.327.3175.

Monday, May 7th: Hubbard St. Dance Chicago’s Spotlight Ball, will take place at the Chicago Hilton. Tickets are $600 by calling 312.553.2000.

Tuesday, May 8th: St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza (its 50th anniversary!) will take place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Tickets are $350 and includes top chef tastings. Call 773-784-6704 for more info.

Wednesday, May 9th: WTTW/WFMT “The British Are Coming” with emcee Jeremy Irons begins with a 60-minute onstage celebration at the Harris Theater (Chicago Children’s Choir, Joffrey Ballet, Under the Streetlamp, etc.) followed by dinner on the Rooftop Terrace. Tickets are $500; call 773.509.5434 for more info.

Thursday, May 10th: The Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon will take place at the Chicago Club. Tickets are $100; learn more at www.serviceclubofchicago.org.

Thursday, May 10th: Taste for the Arts’ 30th Anniversary Gala will be hosted by Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra, Rick and Deann Bayless at the Harris Theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. Chicago Academy for the Arts students will perform on the Rooftop Terrace featuring “Top Chef” chefs (think Stephanie Izard and Rick Bayless) serving up their specialties. Tickets are $350.

Saturday, May 12th: Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala starts 6:30 p.m. at Hilton Chicago. Tickets to the “Lights Camera, Glamour” homage to the films of Rita Hayworth are $500 and can be purchased at www.alz.org/galas/chicago or by calling 312.335.5768.

Saturday, May 12th: RMHC Big Mac Under Glass will be held at the Aragon Ballroom and will star KC & the Sunshine Band. Tickets are $375 at www.ronaldhousechicago.org.

Saturday, May 19th: Campfire Ball will take place at Venue One (located at 1044 W. Randolph) from 7 to 11 p.m. benefitting Children’s Oncology Services will serve all of your favorite camp treats including s’mores, grilled cheese and hot dogs, with DJ and campfire sing-a-longs. Tickets are $85 advanced and $100 at the door; call 312.235.6836 for more info.

I hope to see you at one of more of these wonderful events around town! In the meantime, I hope to see you again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to my talented and gorgeous friend Colleen Kelly on her new WTTW show, “Family Travel with Colleen Kelly.” The premiere is Friday, May 4th at 8:30 p.m. and is the only show WTTW has chosen for a national launch in 2013! And, if you don’t know, Colleen is Catie Keogh’s sister (“24/7”) – must’ve been something in the water! Congrats to TWO talented and beautiful women in the world of media!!

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Tagged as #HotList2012, 24/7, Adiat Baker, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Al Friedman, Alex Kopecky, Allstate, Alpana Singh, Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala, Amber Podell, Ana Belaval, Ann Keen, Arabel Alva Rosales, Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, Beverly McClellan, Big Mac Under Glass, Bill Kurtis, Boss, Brent Nestor, Brian Babcock, Burrell Communications, Campfire Ball, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carly Leviton, Carol Beitler, Carol Fox & Associates, Catie Keough, Cece Gonzales, Cee Lo Green, Charley Jordan, Cheers, Chicago Children's Choir, Chicago Tribune, Children Memorial’s Medical Research Institute Council, Christian Carabias, Cinema/Chicago, Colleen Kelly, Come Paint It Black Tie, Comer Children’s Hospital, Common Threads, Conde Nast Traveler, Connie Field, David Hammond, David Hyde Pierce, Deann Bayless, Dina Manzo, Donna LaPietra, Dr. Frasier Crane, Equality Project, Factor, Family Travel with Colleen Kelly, Frasier, Gaspard Yurkievich, Ginger Zee, Golden Globe, Greg Hyder, Haley Lertola, Hallmark, Have You Heard from Johannesburg, Heather Farley, Hilary Schwartz, Hot List, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Hugo Television Awards, International Film Festival, Irv Gorman, Jeremy Irons, Jerry Nunn, Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala, Joffrey Ballet, John Mahoney, Josephinum Academy, Julianne Glatz, Katie Cahnmann, Kayte Grammer, KC and the Sunshine Band, Kelsey Grammer, Kristina Buckley, Kyle Hillman, Ladybug Bash, Laura Schwartz, Lesli Falk, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Lights Camera Glamour, Linda Yu, Lurie Children's Hospital, Mad Hatter Luncheon, Magdalena Lazarkiewicz, Maggie Speer, Marco Foster, Mark Roscoe, Mary Smithe, MaryAnn Smith, McDonald’s, Meg Caswell, Melinda Joseph, Melissa Babcock, Meredith Bluhm-Wolf, Michael Kutza, Mila Samokhina, Miss Lucy Foozie, Molly Melman, Nancy To, Nellcote, Nick Harkin, Nicolas Bos, Nicolas Luchsinger, NoMI Spa, Optimus, Park Hyatt, Paul Rehder, Polarity Ensemble Theatre, Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, Raddison Blu Aqua, Ramsey Jay Prince, Red Dress Party, RHMC, Richard Engling, Rick Bayless, Rick Canada, Ronald McDonald House, Rotimi Akinosho, Ryan Chiaverini, Service Club of Chicago, Sherren Leigh, Sheryl Dyer, Sinatra, Sonya Jackson, Spotlight Ball, St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza, Stars & Cars” Hollywood Through the Ages, Stephanie Izard, Steve Starr, Susanna Negovan, Suzy Friedman, Sylvia Perez, Taste for the Arts, Ted Brunson, Terrence Chappell, The British Are Coming, The Voice, Tim Smithe, Time Out Chicago, Tom Dreesen, Tom Jones, Tom Kehoe, Toni Canada, Under the Streetlamp, Val Cleef & Arpels, Val Warner, Watch312.com, William Wolf, Windy City Live, Wings

October 18, 2011 · 8:16 pm

STELLA FOSTER HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM CHICAGO JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

…PLUS JOFFREY DANCERS' PARTY FROM EMBARC, CHICAGO GOURMET'S GRAND AFFAIR, HECTOR MONARREZ FASHION SHOW, WATCH312.COM'S LAUNCH PARTY PLANS, ANTI-CRUELTY'S FUN FUNDRAISER, MARIANO'S FRESH MARKET ROCKS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The room was packed with more than 400 adoring fans and friends as the Chicago Journalists Association hosted its largest awards dinner yet for its 72nd annual event. No wonder!!! The Lifetime Achievement Award winner was none other than Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster! Even Governor Quinn had a hard time reaching the recipient to congratulate her since the crowd was packed wall to wall outside the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza. He said, “She has a lifetime ethic of service and when people want to get the word out, they know where to go! She’s got a BIG heart!” The CJA annually recognizes journalistic excellence and this year they honored many more deserving recipients. The evening began with Jimmy Damon singing the National Anthem followed by the invocation from Monsignor Kenneth Velo. He thanked “all of the journalists because they capture life in a day.” Emcees Karen Jordan and Christian Farr kept the night moving along as the award winners were announced. The CJA Dale Messick/Brenda Starr Award went to Tribune columnist Mary Schmich who shared the honor with artist June Brigman. The Chicago Journalist of the Year Award was presented to the Tribune’s arts and jazz critic, Howard Reich, who attended with his wife, Pam Becker, an editor at the Tribune. The award for Best Online Journalism went to Roger Ebert, with adoring wife Chaz accepting, for his popular blog. Sister 2 Sister Magazine founder Jamie Foster Brown – and Stella’s real life sister! – introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Estella Mae Foster. She spoke of Stella’s 34-year relationship with the legendary columnist, Irv Kupcinet, as his secretar
y and confidant. She said, “She’s irreverent and sassy and oh boy, is she opinionated. I love how people love my sister. From this sister to my sister, this is YOUR night!” After this, the crowd exploded, leaping to their feet to honor this beloved Chicago treasure. She said, “This has been such an outpouring of love…I love my family at the Sun-Times.” She started to name friends in the audience but realized the task would be too great. So she continued, “Kup, that was quite a person. What I loved about Kup, he loved writing. We were doing six columns a week except for Saturday and I loved every moment of it with him.” (Stella’s popular column – “Stella’s Column” – can be found every Tuesday and Thursday in the Sun-Times.) Stella’s award was followed by the Daniel Pearl Award which was given to CBS News’ chief foreign affairs correspondent, Lara Logan. Logan and her CBS crew were arrested and detained for a night by the Egyptian Army on Feb. 3, while covering the revolution there. She said the crew was blindfolded and handcuffed at gunpoint, and their driver beaten. They were advised to leave the country, but were later released. Since 2002, she had spent the next four years reporting from war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq for CBS News. Other Sarah Brown Boyden Award winners included Sun-Times’ John J. Kim (Photography), Sun-Times’ Francine Knowles, Kim Janssen and Sandra Guy (Business), WBEZ-FM’s Robert Wildeboer (Features), Tribune’s Dan Pompei (Sports), Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol, John J. Kim (Public Service), Tribune’s Joel Hood, Annie Sweeney and Stacy St. Clair (Spot News), Tribune’s Patricia Callahan and Trine Tsouderos (Science), Tribune’s Sam Roe and Jared Hopkins (Health), Sun-Times’ editorial page staff (Editorial Coverage), Tribune’s Michael Hawthorne (Investigative), AP’s Sharon Cohen (Best Series) and Best of the Best honors went to Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol and John J. Kim for their public service entry, “The No-Snitch Code.” It was an evening filled with familiar faces including Jimmy Rittenberg, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Alan Kaye, Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Israel Idonije, Juanita Jordan, Grant DePorter with daughter Margot, Hermene Hartman, Linda Yu, Joe Ahern, Linda Johnson Rice, Larry Wert, Otis Wilson, Hosea Sanders, John Colletti, Rich Varnes, Leah Hope, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Lisa Lenoir, Cheryl Burton, Mary Ann Childers and Jay Levine, Robert Jordan, Allison Payne, Christina and Lou Vasta, Tony Preckwinkle, Tim Evans, Chaz Ebert, Marion Brooks, LeeAnn Trotter, Father Ken Velo, Karen Jordan, Christian Farr, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, Robin Robinson, Dutchie Caray, George Daniels, Kathleen Henson, Diana Palomar Scott, Morene Dunn, Barry Axler, Courtney Nzeribe, Jamey and Melissa Sage Fadim, Tony Abruscato, Johnny Snickers, Margot DePorter, Cherie and Ernest Baker, Chris Ruys, Pam Becker, Tai Duncan, Devin Blackburn and Shell Reyes among many, many others. Congrats to all of the deserving honorees! What a great night for Chicago!

The 4th annual Chicago Gourmet was, yet again, a smashing success! Presented by title sponsor Bon Appétit in conjunction with the Illinois Restaurant Association and presenting sponsor Southern Wine & Spirits, this year’s event took place from September 23rd through 25th in Millennium Park and brought out a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees. The Kick-Off party, the popular Hamburger Hop, was held atop the Harris Theatre Rooftop and was the ultimate burger showdown with more than 17 determined competitors preparing their top burger dishes. Two chefs emerged victorious: Bandera Executive Chef Colleen McHugh received the judge-selected Allen Brothers Award presented by Todd Hatoff, president of sponsor Allen Brothers Steaks, and Executive Chef Steven Lawhorn of Palmer Place took home the People’s Choice Award for his “Benchmark Burger.” Other exciting activities surrounding Chicago Gourmet included cooking demos, book signings, food and wine seminars, Grand Cru Tastings, numerous gourmet tasting pavilions, and much more. Hundreds of renowned chefs participated including Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard, Tony Mantuano, Mary Sue Milliken, Jonathan Waxman and Ted Allen. Winemakers, premium spirit producers and brewmasters from around the world were also on hand to interact with the attendees. The event raised big money for the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), whose mission is to build the Illinois hospitality workforce through career exploration, workforce development and scholarships. Congrats to IRA’s Sheila O’Grady and her dedicated staff and supporters for another great year of Chicago Gourment!!! (Photos courtesy of David Ditzler and Jeff Schear.)

The Joffrey Ballet dancers are not only incredible artists but they are also dedicated fundraisers for worthy causes! EMBARC is a non-profit organization that provides unique cultural experiences and interactions to high school students from Chicago’s most socially and economically isolated neighborhoods. And in support of this worthy cause, the Joffrey Dancers have created a special event called “A New Movement.” This intimate evening will feature the dancers in their home, The Joffrey Tower (located at Randolph and State), where they will share their art for the cause, presenting six world premieres that the dancers have choreographed on their own time. The evening will also include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of J & L Catering, plus a silent auction with décor donated by Kehoe Designs. I hope you can join me and see these groundbreaking new pieces being performed in support of EMBARC. For tickets and more info, please click here. (One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to EMBARC’s programming!)

The Anti-Cruelty Society will be hosting its 11th annual It’s Raining Cats and Dogs Benefit on Friday, October 21st, from 7 – 11 PM at the Palmer House Hilton. This event, their second largest annual fundraiser, is sponsored by Chopper Trading, Hill’s Science Diet, RCN Cable and CS Magazine and will be emceed by NBC 5’s Andy Avalos. There will be more than 15 chef tastings, complimentary bars, live entertainment from The Ron Harris Music Group, a Panache Boutique fashion show, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, $5000 cash raffle, and of course, adorable adoptable cats and dogs serving as the host committee! Individual tickets are $175 in advance or $200 at the door. For more info and tickets, please call 312-645-8006 or visit www.itsrainingcatsanddogs.org.

Well, I guess there could be a cuter designer than Hector-Javier MonArrez but I don’t know who it would be! His beautiful Front Row 2012 Runway Show was held recently in the legendary Union League Club’s Crystal Room in front of a packed, appreciative audience. The evening began with a VIP champagne reception and then moved into the Crystal Room for the main event. Expertly produced by soon-to-be-wed Kimberly Palmisano (her soon-to-be-proud-hubby is hunky Wulf Kaal), the show featured glamorous Factor Models styled by Joseph Michael’s Salon. The show was hosted by NBC’s Zoraida Sambolin with music provided by DJ Konsept. And it wouldn’t be a party without seeing the Queen of Illustrations, Rosemary Fanti, who was there making everyone look much better than they really are! I loved Hector’s sassy designs and especially his copper colored leather- and fur-trimmed suit. His attention to detail is flawless and this collection highlighted his masterful skills. Congrats Hector! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…view ALL pics HERE!)

Mariano’s Fresh Market is hands-down my favorite grocery store in town! And not only because it generously donated $10,000 to Common Threads recently, but this event did give me the opportunity to see this brand new store for myself for the first time. I will tell you I’ve never seen so much beautiful food so lovingly arranged. While we were there accepting the check from owner, Bob Mariano (darling hubby of Nina DiFrisco), the staff burst spontaneously into song spelling out Mariano’s! I’ve never seen anything like it! The store brochure reads “We provide world-class neighborhood shopping at compelling prices. We are a full-service, complete destination grocery store that caters to family shoppers and foodies alike.” I am totally hooked. Congrats to Bob Mariano on this wonderful new concept that makes grocery shopping such an exciting experience! And thanks also to Bob and Roundy’s Supermarkets for their wonderful policy of always giving back to the communities they’re involved with. Check out Mariano’s for yourselves at 333 E. Benton Place. Welcome to Lakeshore East and thanks for the support on behalf of the kiddies of Common Threads!

Mark your calendars and save the date for Watch312.com’s Launch Party set for Wednesday, November 30th at the Joffrey Tower! See for yourselves the new shows being debuted and meet DC Crenshaw from “Chicago Unplugged” and Dr. Sandy Goldberg and co-host Scott Mackay from “LIVE! With Dr. Sandy.” Lots of surprises in store, too! In the meantime, check out my latest videos from the Green Tie Ball and the Chicago Beach Polo Matches…more fun than the law allows! 🙂

I still haven’t made it to that pumpkin patch, sadly. I am still hopeful the weather will hold so until I get there, here’s a video to remind us all that “The Time is Now!”

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Check out this great pic of Chef Art Smith’s latest restaurant, Southern Art & Bourbon Bar, at 3315 Peachtree Road in Atlanta! Rhonda Sanderson reports it was some of the best fried chicken she’s ever had…so now we know!