...PLUS KERRY AND SARAH’S STARRY DAY AT WRIGLEY; SERVICE CLUB’S FABULOUS FASHION FETE; ERNIE LOVES MILA; COMMON THREADS AND RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE’S FALL PARTIES; GOVERNOR QUINN’S PUPPY LOVE; JESUS’ GALLERY SHOW; STEVE HARVEY WANTS YOU; SING WITH CHICAGO; AN EVENING WITH SMOKEY; KOOL-AID MAN LIGHTS UP CHICAGO; MY WCIU CO-HOSTING JOB; BASH ON WABASH; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN RADIO, TWO NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama was described by Macy’s VP of special productions Mike Gansmoe as an “illuminating journey of fashion seen through the varied lenses of history, pop music, culture, science and
technology.” I simply call it fantastic and another home-run hit out of Macy’s ballpark! The show, which benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana for the fifth year,
featured captivating musical performances by multi-talented singer, songwriter and producer Sheryl Crow and iHeartRadio Rising Star winners The Summer Set. Aerial feats of daring from Cirque du Soleil, cutting
edge lighting and visuals and the best of fall fashions from Macy’s rounded out the hour-long show. It was like a rock concert with an explosion of fashions set against a stunning display of light and sound and I was
mesmerized from the very first number which was a performance by Cirque du Soleil from their Las Vegas “Mystere” production. It was a balancing act performed by two heavily muscled men with whimsically dressed
characters crawling, jumping and somersaulting around the stage that had to be seen to be believed. Macy’s chairman/president/CEO Terry Lundgren then welcomed the crowd and introduced Ronald McDonald House Charities’ ambassador family, the Maules. Sisters Neilah and Jaden were
involved in a horrible car accident last July when an intoxicated driver hit them and both girls wound up in the hospital for six months undergoing extensive, multiple surgeries. A video showed what the Houses mean to families of children like this and how they provide care and comfort throughout the world. Mother Kellie Maule said the Ronald McDonald House felt like “going home” and that “it
provided consistency in a world that was rapidly changing.” She also called it a “godsend.” The theme of the event – “Fashion in a New Light” – was created by longtime show director/choreographer Myron Johnson, who
celebrated his 27th year in this position. My friend and VP of media relations and cause marketing for Macy’s North & Midwest Regions, Andrea Schwartz, said the next Glam planning begins the minute the last one ends. Her PR ladies (who include Lauren Rapisand and Liz Kores) had a huge task this night and executed it with perfection although the door people were more than a little
tough this year. I guess this is a necessary evil for such a big event that everyone and their brother tries to crash. (More than 350 press credentials were issued for the four-city tour!) In any case, the evening kept everyone on the edge of
their seats with excitement from beginning to end. More than 100 outfits were showcased on the runway on 42 stunning models that travel from city to city for the event. The show was first seen in Minneapolis,
came to Chicago and went on to L.A. and San Francisco. It requires seven days of rehearsal and more than 10 hours of model fittings. The show uses 42 computers, 350 lighting fixtures, 12 projectors and
60,000 watts of sound with the backdrop comprised of 80 LED panels! Designs from Tommy Hilfiger started off the show featuring sporty, back-to-school looks that included cropped jeans and letter jackets reminiscent of the Fonz. Jean Paul
Gaultier highlighted chic, metallic puffy vests. (I’m lusting after the silver one with the roll collar so hands off people.) Tallia Orange showed cool, wearable menswear looks a la “Mad
Men”. (Designer Mark Roscoe is a fan.) There were a lot of mixed patterns and Rachel Roy presented blazers, bomber jackets, a hot orange catsuit, floppy hats and sparkly separates. A new line for Macy’s – Maison Jules – debuted this
night showing Parisian-inspired street style with a nod towards Audrey Hepburn (who DOESN’T give a nod towards Audrey?!); I loved the ballet flats with the Birkin-inspired handbags, too. Adult and kid dancers performed in a break-dancing production
number that included futuristic LED lights. I loved seeing crowd favorite Bailey “BailRok” Munoz return and steal the show again. I was so thrilled to interview the star of the show, Sheryl Crow, who is as beautiful on
the inside as she is on the outside. She was stunning in a Yves St. Laurent batwing silk top and skin-tight white jeans with black lace detail. She told me that she has two small boys so supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities
was important to her; she also told me she loves everything about Chicago and always looks forward to visiting. She said she loves the vibe here and the people and then laughingly added the shopping. She is an amazing musician and
played at least three different guitars on this night. She sang songs from her upcoming album, “Feels Like Home” (due out in September), that included “Easy”, her first solo country hit. Sheryl said it’s “about drinking beer in your
backyard”...and I loved it! She ended with my all-time favorite “Every Day is a Winding Road”, at which point, silver confetti rained
down and all of the models came out to dance in the audience. (I was verklempt, talk amongst yourselves for a moment...) The elaborate after-party followed and had more moving parts than a
Ferris wheel. I saw a fashion fortune telling booth, an American Express Wheel of Fortune, Instagram- and prop-filled photo ops, more than a dozen Patron bars, DJ Dan Jordan spinning like a demon, fabulous food, Lancome touch-up stations, a celeb-filled VIP lounge and so much more. This is truly fashion’s night out in
Chicago and I was honored to be there covering it for my Chicago Tribune Candid Candace column and for my Watch312.com internet show “Candid Candace Chicago”...SEE VIDEO BELOW!) I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about it as much as I enjoyed attending and writing about it. I also want to thank WGN Radio’s Steve Cochran Show and Windy City LIVE! for having me on to talk about this much loved and much-anticipated yearly event. (For upcoming Macy’s event and fashion news, click here and for Ronald McDonald House Charities info, click here.) (Photos by Mila Samokhina).
The Service Club of Chicago hosted its annual Day on the Terrace Fashion Show and luncheon recently at the Peninsula Chicago with a record-breaking crowd of more than 300. This charitable organization, founded in 1890, is one of the oldest in Chicago now celebrating its 123rd year. The
45-minute show featured more than 80 fall looks from retailers that included Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, Vera Wang, Maximilian of Bloomingdale’s, Tom James, Black Tie Formalwear, Burdi, Escada, Intermix, Ralph Lauren and Starr Couture; local designers included Elda de la Rosa and Shalini and vintage looks from Lulu’s on the Avenue added a touch of
fashion history to the show. Members, local celebs and media personalities served as models and included chefs Giuseppe Tentori and
Travis Strickland, Anna Davlantes, Jane Monzures, Rob Johnson, Mary Ann Childers, Bill Zwecker, Fabrice Calmels, Alexi Giannoulias, Ryan Baker, Dan Uslan, J.P. Anderson, John Carroll, D.C.
Crenshaw, Greg Hyder, Rich Gamble, Sherren Leigh, Kim Vatis, Rich Varnes, Stanley Paul and Fabrice Calmels among many others. Co-chairs Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Sheila
O’Grady planned an exciting event this year breaking records in both attendance and funds raised. Chair emeritus Hazel Barr served as fashion show commentator along with show producer Tracey Dibuono and president Vonita Reescercelebrated her 65th birthday with a surprise cake presentation. Standouts included Sheila O’Grady and Toni Canada (both wearing darling caps and chic designs by Ralph Lauren), Monika
Dixon, Sheree Valukas and first-time Service Club model Elizabeth Queen glowed in glamorous ball gowns by Vera Wang. Evans Scholars escorted models during the Neiman Marcus segment and I was thrilled to wear a beautiful Carolina Herrera cocktail dress. (The long version was worn by Lucy Liu at
the Golden Globes.) One hundred percent of the $40,000 funds raised will go directly to the organization’s grant program, which supports various non-profits in the Chicagoland area. To see ALL of the great event photos by Mila Samokhina, Caitlin Saville Collins and John Reilly Photography, click here and see all of the fun on my Watch312.com video below!)
Excited fans at Wrigley Field were able to witness former Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood’s return to the mound on August 10th...but this time the game was Wiffle ball and his teammates were a combination of celebrities and media personalities. Wood and wife Sarahhosted the First Annual Woody’s Wiffle Ball Classic, an all-day sporting event sponsored by Walgreens which began with a sixteen corporate team tournament and ended with a Home Run Derby and celebrity “Wiffle for a Diffle” game. The event raised more than $490K for the Wood Family Foundation. The outfield of Wrigley was divided into four “fields"
(Fenway, Field of Dreams, Wrigley and Yankee) during the day, complete with backdrops and bleachers where corporate teams competed against one another. The tournament began with
Cubs special announcer Wayne Messmer singing the national anthem. Various celebs and local media personalities served as captains and players for participating teams such as Walgreens, United Airlines, InCapital, JP Morgan Chase,
Sloane Valve Corporation, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, Leo Burnett, Hillshire Brands, Field of Dreams/All Star Ballpark Heaven, WinTrust Mortgage, Select Rehab, Chicago Trading Company, Chicago Athletic Club, and Four Corners Tavern
Group. Funnyman Bill Murray jumped in to play in the outfield with the Wintrust Mortgage and Walgreens teams while also working the crowd of Bleacher Bums all day. Leo Burnett “Bad Apples” team had a cheer going all day with former Chicago Bear Steve McMichael at the helm. In the end, it
was the All Star Ballpark Heaven team captained by Matthew Perry that was crowned the “2013 Wiffle Ball Champions” and received the official Woody’s Wiffle Ball Classic trophy. The field was then prepared for the Home Run Derby which was pitched by Wood. (The crowd went
wild seeing Kerry back on the mound!). Participants included Jenny McCarthy, Moises Alou, CM Punk, Derrek Lee, Michael Barrett, Bill Murray and Matthew Perry. Former Cubs Alou, Lee, and Barrett wowed fans but when all was said and done, it was Michael Barrett who won and received the title of Home Run Derby Champion.
“American Idol” winner Lee Dewyze kicked off the celebrity “Wiffle for a Diffle” game with the national anthem followed by Wood Family Foundation scholar recipient Gaby Santoyo throwing out the first pitch. Approximately 70 celebrity players donned in full
throwback baseball uniforms (red and blue) took to their positions on the field and batting line up and the fun began. Emcee Paula Faris (former NBC Chicago sports reporter) announced the batters who came out to their chosen theme song.
(Jenny McCarthy, for example, chose Beyonce’s “Who Runs the World”.) Entertaining moments included: Bill Murray making “Biggest Loser” winner Danni Allen run laps for striking out when at bat, WWE wrestler CM Punk trying to hit the ball with a fold-up chair instead of a bat, Kerry striking
wife Sarah out, and Bill Murray going deep in his first at bat. Chicago Blackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison sang the seventh inning stretch and former Cub Glendon Rusch hit the game-winning grand slam for the Blue team captained by Sarah with Bill Murray as honorary co-captain. “Woody’s
Wiffle Ball Classic was the most fun our Walgreens team has ever had. We are happy to be able to support the Wood Family Foundation and the work they do,” explained Wade Miquelon, CFO for Walgreens. “Training camp starts Monday for the 2014 tournament. We’ll be back!” Celebrities that participated
included Matthew Perry, Bill Murray, Joel Murray (“Mad Men”), Jenny McCarthy, George Wendt (“Cheers”), Adam Rodriguez (“CSI: Miami”), CM Punk (WWE), Mark Moses (“Mad Men”), Josh Charles (“The Good Wife”), Todd Walker (former Chicago Cub), Moises Alou (former Chicago Cub), Michael Barrett (former Chicago Cub), Steve Trout (former Chicago Cub), Ron Harper (former Chicago
Bull), Kristy Swanson (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer”), Kevin Farley, Sarah Colonna (“Chelsea Lately”), Derrek Lee (former Chicago Cub), Aimee Garcia (“Dexter”), Neil Flynn (“Scrubs”), DB Sweeney (“Mountain Men”), Ed Swiderski (“The Bachelorette”), Lee Dewyze(“American Idol”), Peter Mackenzie (“Hart of Dixie”), Jeff Dye (comedian), Finesse Mitchell (comedian), Jim Cornelison (Chicago Blackhawks anthem singer), Danni Allen (“The Biggest
Loser”), Chris Chelios (former Chicago Blackhawk), Lloyd Eisler (Olympic ice skater), Pat Finn (Marvin Marvin), Eric Gilliland (film director), Lisa Guerreo (“Sunset Beach”), Scott Eyre (former Chicago Cub), Ernie Halvorsen (“The
Amazing Race”), Cindy Halvorsen (“The Amazing Race”), Steve McMichael (former Chicago Bear), Ramon Martinez (former Chicago Cub), Glendon Rusch and Wayne Messmer. Local media personalities
and celebrities that participated included Ryan Baker (CBS Chicago), Lou Canellis (Fox), Ryan Chiaverini (“Windy City LIVE”), Roe Conn (“Roe and Roeper”), Janet Davies (ABC), Anna Davlantes (Fox), Eric Ferguson (“Eric and Kathy”), Brotha Fred (Kiss FM), Megan Glaros (CBS), Jerrod Melman (restaurateur), RJ Melman,
(restaurateur), Kathy Hart (“Eric and Kathy”), Dave Kaplan (Comcast / WGN), Catie Keogh (“24-7 Chicago”), Natalie Martinez (NBC), Pete McMurray (WGN radio), Showbiz Shelly (B96), Dionne Miller (Fox), Jane Monzures (FM101 News), J Niice (B96), Richard Roeper (“Roe and Roeper”), Allison Rosati (NBC), Tracy Schmidt (Crain’s), Marc Silverman (“Waddle & Silvy”), Sarah Spain (ESPNChicago.com), Rafer Weigel (ABC), Derrick Young (CBS), Kelli Zink (CelebTV.com) and Billy Dec (restaurateur). The Wood Family Foundation (WFF) is a non-profit 501c3 organization that was founded in June 2011 by Kerry and his wife Sarah. The
WFF works to improve the lives of children in Chicago by raising funds for children’s programs and acts as an advocate for the children, inspiring others to join them in their mission of giving kids the resources they need to succeed. For more info about this wonderful organization, visit www.woodfamilyfoundation.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina, Kenny Kim and Collin Pierson).
Speaking of baseball, our very own Mila Samokhina was on hand when Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks, was honored in Wrigley Field recently for his nomination by President Obama with the Medal of Freedom honor! Banks played in 11 All-Star Games and hit more than 500 home
runs in his career; he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. Mila is his official photographer and was on hand in his box to capture these photos. She and her husband Arthur renewed their vows recently in Paris where they attached a love lock with their names
engraved on the Pont de l’Archevêché. (They’ve been married 30 years!) This longtime Paris tradition is spreading throughout Europe even though Mayor Emanuel won’t allow this in Chicago. Locks of love appear on both the Pont des Arts and Pont de l’Archevêché in Paris. Newlyweds Kyla and Tim Smithe have a lock there, too! Awwwwwww...
Mark your calendars for Common Threads’ Third Annual Cook-Off on October 2nd at Fulton’s on the River from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Join 30+ of Chicago’s finest chefs as they compete to raise funds for CT’s culinary programs in Chicago. For tickets ($75) and info, visitCommonThreads.org. AND don’t miss CT co-founder Jesus Salgueiro when he presents his fabulous new art exhibit, “Going Gaga for Love Mandalas,
a prayer for love and all the great things in life” at the Gruen Gallery (located at 226 W. Superior) from 6 to 9 p.m. on September 20th. Event proceeds will benefit Common Threads and the Born This Way Foundation. We love Jesus and his limitless positivity, not to mention his amazing talent! Congrats!
Save the date – September 26th – for the third annual Cocktail Party hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary Board of Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s. Tickets are $150 and include live music and entertainment, top shelf open bar and appetizer buffet. The party will be held in The Back Room (located at 937 N. Rush St.) from 6 to 9 p.m. and will raise funds for the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House where 86 families find care and comfort each night. (For tickets to this sure-to-be wonderful evening, please click here!)
Congrats to Governor Quinn for signing the Puppy Lemon Law on August 17th at Wiggly Field, located at 2465 N. Sheffield Ave. This law will now allow consumers to receive a refund, replacement or reimbursement of veterinary costs for animals purchased with a pre-existing or undisclosed disease or illness. The law will also require pet stores to notify customers and the state veterinarian of a life-threatening outbreak of contagious diseases. While there is obviously never a replacement for a pet, this law will place increased financial pressure on pet stores, which in large part obtain pets from puppy mills. Good job, Governor!
Delivery, a food truck and a chance to win big?! This is what one lucky Chicagoan will win this fall when Giordano’s brings its pizza and their new BIG food truck to your neighborhood! Anyone who orders Giordano’s for delivery between now and September 15th will be automatically entered for the chance to win a block party in his or her neighborhood with Giordano’s food truck! How fun is this? May the best pizza lover win!
“The Steve Harvey Show” wants YOU! If you’re single, a Chicago local and between the ages of 18 and 45, then Steve wants you to join him for a filming of a “Singles Symposium” at Navy Pier on September 7th. This entertaining event will be filled with goodies and surprises – one for the record books, I’m told, so email Jessica Smedick at [email protected] ASAP with a photo of yourself!
Thanks so much to WGN Radio’s “The Bill Leff Show” for having me on last week! It was a fun segment with his sidekick Jennifer Stevens – they make a great team and it was a privilege to return to discuss all of Chicago’s hottest parties! Missed my top pics? Listen here!
I can’t wait to attend the South Loop’s 10th annual Bash on Wabash this weekend! This old fashioned street festival will celebrate Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Food Pantry. There will be a wide variety of live musical acts, activities (dunk tank, animal costume contest, mechanical bull riding, etc.), food trucks, a kids’ stage and a ton of local vendors! It all starts at 11 a.m. on August 24th on Wabash Avenue between 13th Street and 14th Place. Hope to see you there! (For more info, click here!)
Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control’s Big Night will include more than 400 animal lovers gathered under the Tiffany Dome in the Chicago Cultural Center on September 26th from 6:30 to 9 p.m. for a great night of food, fun and fundraising. More than a dozen of Chicago’s finest chefs (expertly organized by Executive Chef Jackie Shen) will prepare a tantalizing
array of unique dishes. Phil Stefani’s will serve a variety of fine wines including the signature “Muttinis” to loosen up the crowd and, of course, there will be exciting auction items – from diamonds to doggie treats – to bid on during the silent and live auctions. ABC sports anchor Jim Rose and his beautiful wife Lakesha will emcee the event! (For tickets – $100 pre-sale and $125 at the door – click here.)
The Chicago State University Foundation (CSUF) Board of Directors will host its 19th Annual Circle of Friends event, “Circle of Friends presents An Evening with Smokey Robinson”, on September 19th (which also happens to be Chuck’s birthday)! This scholarship fundraising concert will take place from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. beginning with a Strolling Supper at the CSU Academic Library (located at 9502 S. King Dr.) followed by the one and only Smokey Robinson in concert at the Jones Convocation Center beginning at 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7:00 p.m.) This event is the CSU Foundation’s major fundraiser and proceeds will provide scholarships, technology enhancements and general support for Chicago State University students. Concert tickets range from $50 for general admission seating to $200 for VIP seating that also includes an open bar and appetizers. Sponsorship packages are available as well that include the Strolling Supper reception. Those interested in sponsorships may reach the foundation at 773.995.3839. Visit the CSU website here to purchase tickets.
The Kool-Aid Man came to town recently and I got to meet the big red pitcher – what a thrill to meet a childhood icon! He was in the Windy City doing “Random Acts of Fun” for Chicago area families at the Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo, Wendella Boat Tours and North Avenue Beach. Keep up the “tasty” work, KAM! (Thanks to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting for this “cool” intro!)
Thanks so much to WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” for giving me the privilege of co-hosting its dynamic show last week! Jeanne Sparrow was off to a family reunion and I was so excited to sit in her spot on the couch next to Melissa Forman. I’m telling you, these two make it all look so easy but believe me, it is NOT: A two-hour show with multiple segments and a zillion moving parts is not a simple thing to handle but Melissa and Jeanne certainly make it look effortless. Their team is on top
of every news story and it was awe-inspiring to witness the behind the scenes action. I think I flunked Teleprompter 101 but was thrilled to have this opportunity! Love to Melissa, Jeanne and producer Rob Morhaim and congrats on your fabulous show! (Don’t miss this show every weekday from 6 to 8 a.m. on the WCIU, the U, channel 26!)
I can’t WAIT for this month’s Randolph Street Market on August 24th and 25th at 1350 W. Randolph! This weekend extravaganza will feature a back-to-school theme with more than 250 vendors, fabulous food, cocktails and live music – it’s a block party with benefits...and I’ll see you there! For more info, visit www.randolphsteetmarket.com.
That’s all for now! Hope you tune in next week for more fabulous photos, videos and the hottest event news in the Windy City!
P.S. Congrats to Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro on their fourth wedding anniversary! This loving couple announced on their big day that WHEN the Illinois Marriage Equality bill passes, and is signed by the Governor (expected early next year), they will hold a HUGE celebration at Table Fifty-Two and remarry in Chicago to
celebrate the historic occasion. I hope my invite doesn’t get lost in the mail! CONGRATS ART AND JESUS!
P.P.S. Hope you’re enjoying my Candid Candace column every Sunday in the Chicago Tribune! :) Please send me your events for consideration, too!
...PLUS MARCO’S WHITE PARTY FOR ONE HOPE UNITED; ROBBIE HAS A HEART OF “GOULD”; NORA DUNN’S “MYTHICAL PROPORTIONS”; HEF AND COOPER PAR-TAY IN LA; SILVER SISTERS COMING TO CHICAGO; CSO’S SYMPHONY BALL; "NOW YOU KNOW" CELEBRATES ITS THIRD YEAR; MRS. INTERNATIONAL 2013; HOTEL LINCOLN’S CUTEST POOCH SEARCH; WCIU’S PLAYBOY MANSION VIDEO; RAVINIA FESTIVAL GALA, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
Chicago’s young philanthropists gathered for the Shedd Aquarium’s annual Auxiliary Board soiree, BLU, which was held recently under the stars and against the back drop of the beautiful Chicago skyline.
The event – which raised more than $370,000 – commemorated the 10 year anniversary of Shedd’s Wild Reef exhibit which showcases the diverse ecosystem of the
Philippines. BLU co-chairs Gideon P. Searle and Susan Patience, along with the 60-member Auxiliary Board, shared their passion for Shedd’s learning and conservation initiatives with 900 guests at one of Chicago’s premier summer fundraising fêtes. The evening
began in the aquarium’s galleries with sweet and savory bites from some of our city's most popular restaurants including Carnivale, The Florentine, Mercadito, Publican, Big Jones and Jellyfish. (The food at this event is always top notch, as you can imagine!) Delectable desserts from Forever Yogurt, Pioneer Tavern and
Glazed & Infused Doughnuts satisfied the crowd’s sweet tooth. Diving deeper into Shedd (oh no, a pun!), guests experienced what it was like to touch a cownose stingray at Stingray Touch, enjoyed up close and personal animal encounters,
and strolled through the shark habitats in the Wild Reef exhibit. Smooth sounds filled the aquarium from local musical talents The Salt and the Sea, The Samples and DJ Trentino (with a special VIP set from Bailiff) while guests danced the night away against a backdrop of fireworks on the Sick Family Lakefront Terrace. For dancing feet that had yet to grow weary, trolleys shuttled guests to an afterparty hosted by The Underground concluding the eventful evening. “We’re thrilled Shedd’s Auxiliary Board continues to successfully inspire young philanthropists of Chicago to support Shedd Aquarium,” said president and CEO Ted A. Beattie. “The critical funds raised through events like BLU allow Shedd to share the wonders of the
aquarium with thousands of school children each the year, provide exceptional care to its 32,500 animals, and support conservation efforts around the world.” (Photos by Brenna Hernandez.)
Chicago philanthropist and good guy-about-town Marco Foster held his Third Annual White Party on July 26th at American Junkie, located at 15 W. Illinois. The evening, which benefitted One Hope United, a not-for-profit
organization that protects vulnerable children from child abuse or neglect, strengthens their families, and prepares children for a prosperous future, was Marco’s biggest party to date and one of the hottest
parties of the summer. “There was a time in my life when I was young and lost in the system, also known as the Department of Children and Family Services. I was adopted by a great woman, Marjorie Foster, at the age of seven, and I’m able to
relate to what a foster child and parent has to deal with,” said Marco. “The White Party gives me a platform to raise awareness for and give back to One Hope United, an absolutely wonderful organization with the goal of finding a safe
home for every child.” Featuring two hours of specialty cocktails and beats from DJ Dante the Don beneath a retractable roof, guests painted the town white (not red!) for this highly anticipated soiree. Marco arrived in style in a Cadillac XTS4 Platinum Edition that was donated by Cadillac, who also offered another lucky guest the opportunity to drive one for a week! Sponsors included Burrell Vodka and CS magazine, with host
committee members Vincent Anzalone and Lonnie Rodriguez, Genuine Entertainment; Finnigan, 101.9 The MIX personality; Shannon Ihrke, 97.9 Loop Rock Girl; Jonny Imerman, Imerman’s Angels; Justin Jacobson (with Shannon
Williams), Platinum Events; Rose Mandel, Mandel Productions; Alicia Roman, NBC 5 Chicago meteorologist; Raj Sai, philanthropist; and moi! Other fun loving and philanthropically-bent partygoers included Ryan Chiaverini, Marcus Riley, Brenda Arelano, Scott Hays,
Nick Katsafados, Veronica and Michael Palumbo, Brooke Lichtman, Rachel Jacklin, Matt Ryan, Ashley Greene, James Landis, Treavor Mosbaugh, Jason Belenke, Andre Miller, Jenny Sitko, Kendra Correa-Brady, Chellie Carlson, Chantel Luxem, Jacqui Rovirosa, RiKaleigh Johnson, Danielle Young, Cheryl O'Connor, Candyce Parragua,
Cindy-Lee Pijoos, Nelly Cintron and Luzely Avila, among many others. Congrats and much love to you, Marco! For more info on this wonderful organization, click here. (Photos by Onasis Odelmo Stoby and Ray Thompson.)
Dinner at David Burke’s Primehouse was served with a kick recently when Chicago Bears kicker Robbie Gould hosted an intimate dinner with Primehouse Executive Chef Rick Gresh where a portion of the proceeds
benefitted his charity, The Goulden Touch. The evening featured a silent auction in the new Burke’s Dining Room, with a Prosecco reception by Mionetto Wines. The highlight of the dinner was Robbie doubling as a server for the evening, waiting on tables and even plating the food in the Primehouse kitchen – a man of many
talents! The four-course meal created by Chef Gresh included a cocktail starter with shrimp, lobster and king crab, followed by bacon wrapped veal medallions with roasted mushrooms, broccoli and lemon confit. The dinner also featured
Primehouse’s dry aged steaks and included a 35-day dry-aged rib eye! Finally, patrons noshed on a blueberry waffle dessert created by Primehouse Executive Pastry Chef Jove. T. Hubbard that included hickory nuts, maple ice cream and crystalized blueberries. After dinner, Robbie Gould was interviewed by Zach Zaidman from 670 The Score and he held a short Q&A with attendees. Love this Bear with a heart of Gould! (See what I did there? ;))
An Asian pig with a penchant for liquor, a wooden leg discovered in the corner of a dank cellar and the deadly rampage of a desperate middle-aged bookkeeper becomes the stuff of legend in Nora Dunn’s “Mythical Proportions.” Written and performed by Ms. Dunn, this one-woman show that has been two years in the making will come to Theater Wit (located at 1229 W. Belmont) on August 20th. Produced by Steven Ullman, the show combines characters from across the country with
Nora’s own stories from her childhood in inner city Chicago. She describes the show thusly: “The centerpiece of the show is Mrs. Williams, whom I started talking to on my road trip to Los Angeles to do a three-week workshop run of the show. While driving through Missouri, I got nervous about my progressive party bumper sticker. There were so many gruesome “Pro Life” billboards and patriotic “Pro War” billboards that I was afraid to pull over for gas and a PowerBar. I started a conversation in that state with an imaginary black woman named Mrs. Williams whose husband had withdrawn
from society because of his experience with racism. I road along with this monologue all through Missouri and Oklahoma and Texas and when I got to The Andulaz Hotel in Albuquerque, I wrote it down. That’s when my two-year odyssey writing ‘Mythical Proportions’ was finally over.” Dunn goes on to say, “I love Hollywood, especially the old remnants of it you find by
accident. ‘Mythical Proportions’, in part, pays homage to that worn history, and to the ghosts in Hollywood who never realized their dreams. The show is also an ode to the art of storytelling, and the great communion between audience and performer when you are all in the same room together. That experience is worth the time it takes to put something like this together. It even made the dangerous pit stops in rural right-wing America with a Progressive Party sticker on my bumper worth it. Really.” I had the lucky opportunity to meet Ms. Dunn through
a mutual friend (Project Runway’s Peach Carr) and I must say she’s just as fabulous and funny in person as she is on the stage and screen. And did I say loveable? Her list of impersonations is endless and she had us both in stitches throughout the entire lunch at RL Restaurant recently. I can’t wait to see her one-woman show and I hope to see YOU there, too! (For details, please click here!)
ALL of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner’s parties are exciting (at least the ones I’ve attended) and I was thrilled to see that the tradition continued as Hef’s son Cooper hosted this
year’s Midsummer Night's Dream party on August 3rd. The beautiful Tudor-style Mansion was lit up like a Roman candle in shades of Playmate pink, purple and green with twinkling white
lights filling the trees. Mrs. Hefner (Crystal Harris) chose a pink fairy outfit covered in pale flowers and ribbons that made her look like a beautiful wood nymph complete with little wings. Hef wore his signature red
pajamas with a captain’s boating cap tipped jauntily to the side. (I remember when Kendra first convinced him to start wearing this style of headgear back in the days of “The Girls Next Door” and it looks like he still enjoys the look!) Cooper, aka Mini Hef, chose black silk pajamas for the party that also featured stilt walkers
costumed as trees, beautiful aerialists performing on rings attached to the ceiling of the tent and, of course, lots of glam Playmates, many wearing fairy wings. Kendra and husband Hank Baskett were on hand and she looked as fit as ever in black short shorts and a skin tight black T. Other guests included Jamie Foxx, George Lopez,
Matthew Moy, Miles Teller, Jon Lovitz, Garry Marshall, Joel David Moore, Edi Gathegi, Larry Sanders, Playmates Kayla Collins and Summer Altice (who helped DJ), Diablo Cody, Breckin Meyer, Mike Judge, Clifton Collins, Jr., Mikey Roe, Scott Porter, Rob Buckley, Miles Teller and Stephen Colletti. Even electronic Playboy cigarettes were offered to guests from a vending machine! Glad to see Hef still having fun! Here’s to many more legendary Playboy parties!
Are you naturally gray and proud of it or are you still coloring your hair the old school way? Well, if you're a proud Silver Sister, Diana Jewell wants YOU! Diana, a former director of marketing for Vogue and author of “Going Gray, Looking
Great” is bringing her Silver Sister Strut to Chicago for a weekend filled with fun beginning on October 25th. This gathering, which is sponsored by Jhirmack Shampoo, will be held at the Marriott Courtyard Mag Mile (located at 165 E. Ontario) and is a celebration of women of all ages who have embraced gray and silver hair. I’m thrilled and
honored to be the ambassador for this event and will be its keynote speaker on Saturday afternoon October 26th. Festivities will begin on Friday evening (7 p.m. to 9 p.m.) with a Gala Cocktail Party at Cité Restaurant followed by a luncheon on Saturday that will include a fashion show with glorious designs from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. A photo session of The Jhirmack Silver Sister Strut will follow the luncheon at the Bean in Millennium Park. (Transportation will be provided.) Tickets are $125 for complete weekend and $75 for those attending the luncheon and Strut here...hope to see my fellow Silver Sisters soon!
WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” recently aired this fun segment that I contributed to about life at the Chicago Playboy Mansion. Producer Chris DeRose’s attention to detail was spot-on and I loved
taking this walk down memory lane. Christie Hefner did, however, correct me on one point: Though Hef did live and play in the Mansion which is where the famous shots of him in the giant circular bed were taken, the building next door to the Mansion was actually offices. Thanks Christie and thanks to WCIU and Chris for including me! Hope you enjoy the segment!
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) Gala concert and Symphony Ball will be held at the Palmer House Hilton on September 21st at 7 p.m. Maestro Riccardo Muti will lead the orchestra for a concert that will celebrate the bicentennial of Italy’s greatest composer, Giuseppe Verdi. In honor of this exciting
evening, Bulgari Jewelers (located at 909 N. Michigan Ave.) recently hosted a jewel-themed kick-off party for the CSO Women’s Board, trustees and friends. (Bulgari, a leading Italian jeweler since 1884, is the official jewelry sponsor of Symphony Ball.) Co-chairs Elisabeth Adams and Katie Barber greeted guests at the kick-off party who included Women’s Board president Leslie Henner Burns and her husband John, Elizabeth Foster, Mary Lou Gorno, Karen Goodyear, Shelley Ochab and Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association president Deborah Rutter. (For tickets and more info, click here).
Save the date: HUGE congrats to one of my favorite bloggers around town, Katie Cahnmann, as she celebrates the third anniversary of her popular website, Now You Know Events, one of the BEST events calendars in town! I hope you can join me in toasting this much loved personality who covers all of the best events in the city on October 1st at the new Blackfinn Ameripub in River North! The party will also benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (Details to follow!)
Forty-year-old Amy Gregorio of Northfield was crowned Mrs. International 2013 recently at the 28th Annual Mrs. International Pageant held at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. The two-hour event featured 70 contestants from around
the world competing in three categories including interview, fitness wear and evening gown. Gregorio’s husband, John, crowned her Mrs. International before a sold-out audience.A former award-winning television journalist, Gregorio will spend her year as Mrs. International promoting her platform of helping abused and neglected children through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). Congrats and good luck, Amy!
Do you think you have the cutest pooch? Well bring him/her to Hotel Lincoln on September 14th and let the judging begin! “Lincoln Park’s Cutest Pooch” competition will be held
from 10 a.m. to noon at the hotel at 1816 N. Clark St. Guests will also be able to bid on silent auction items and win raffle prizes with all proceeds benefiting PAWS Chicago. The event is free to attend and no registration fee is required to enter the competition! For more info, please call (855) 514-8112. Hope to see you there!
Don’t ask me why I waited so long but I attended the Ravinia Festival Gala for the first time this year! Renowned classical pianist Lang Lang was as cute as he was talented and thanks to an invite from Ravinia Festival director of
communications Nick Pullia, I covered this elegant event in my Chicago Tribune column this week. To read more about it and see all of the wonderful pics, please click here! What a performance and what a wonderful event...congrats to all!
The annual PAWS Chicago Beach Party was tail-wagging fun from beginning to end! Check it all out below on my Watch312.com video and read all about it AND see pics here in my Chicago Tribune column! The event raised more than $210,000 for the organization.
Thanks so much for checking in and I hope you’re enjoying this beautiful summer as much as I am!
