Candid Candace: July 2014

PLUS NIGHT HEIST; MISERICORDIA'S ARTIST IN ALL; GARY SINISE HONORS OUR VETS; BEHIND THE SCENES AT ANTIQUES ROADSHOW; FIG & OLIVE'S GRAND OPENING PARTIES; MACY'S PASSPORT PRESENTS GLAMORAMA; LUX LIFE FOR PRIMO CLASSICO D' EUROPA AND MORE!

CST Exec. Dir. Criss Henderson, Board Chair Sheli Rosenberg, Spirit of Shakespeare Award Artistic honoree Mike Nussbaum, Civic honoree Greg Smith and SCT Artistic director Barbara Gaines

Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) celebrated the enduring vitality of Shakespeare with GALA 2014 at its home on Navy Pier. 350 of Chicago’s civic, corporate and cultural leaders attended the event benefiting CST’s civic engagement and education initiatives

Nancy Huser, Spirit of Shakespeare Award Civic honoree Denise Smith and CST Board member Stephanie Pope

including the citywide summer tradition Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks and Team Shakespeare education programs. GALA 2014 dramatically showcased the home of Chicago Shakespeare at Navy Pier with splendor and theatricality. Inspired by the natural beauty

CST Board member Patrick Richard Daley and Tara Flocco

of Chicago’s parks, the venue was transformed into a forest reminiscent of the mystical woods of this summer’s Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The lush foliage decorations by Bukiety included spectacular flower

Deborah Liverett with CST board members Eric Strickland and Ava Youngblood.

arrangements and full-size transplantable trees that were donated to the Chicago Park District following the event! During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed signature cocktails featuring spirits from Koval Distillery while actors dressed as favorite Shakespearean characters and woodland sprites adorned the lobbies as living art installations. Following dinner, guests gathered in CST’s Courtyard Theater for the presentation of the

Upstairs theater transformed into a forest with Butterfly Fairy (Elizabeth Lanza)

Spirit of Shakespeare Awards which are awarded annually to honor those that keep the spirit of Shakespeare alive through community service and artistic leadership. This year, CST Artistic Director Barbara Gaines and Executive Director Criss Henderson presented the Civic Honoree award to The Boeing Company and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Greg

Co-chairs Robin and Steve Solomon with Sheli Z. Rosenberg.

Smith and his wife Denise in recognition of the company’s founding partnership and continued support of Shakespeare in the Parks. This free citywide program brings Shakespeare productions to Chicago Park District parks in culturally underserved communities. When accepting the award, Smith said, "The work at Chicago Shakespeare is bold, it’s creative, it’s innovative. The theater rightly deserves its

Upstairs theater transformed into a forest.

reputation for pushing the boundaries of the art in Chicago and around the nation in connecting so many people from very diverse backgrounds to the great riches in the experience of Shakespeare. These themes of innovation, excellence and education are highly valued at the Boeing Company, which clearly connects us to the mission of the theater." CST's Gaines presented the Spirit of Shakespeare Award

Danielle Nicholas and Ryan McCaskey

to the Artistic Honoree Mike Nussbaum. A video highlighting Nussbaum’s prolific acting career showcased footage from his roles in the original and Broadway casts of David Mamet’s American Buffalo and Glengarry Glen Ross, as well as his performances at Chicago Shakespeare. Event co-chairs Anna and Bob Livingston, Robin and Steve Solomon, and Charlene and Bill Tomazin spearheaded the evening’s event which raised more than $1.2 million

Gala co-chairs Anna and Robert Livingston with daughters Kristen and Kendall

for Chicago Shakespeare in Urban Communities. This record-breaking fundraising total was made possible by Lead Sponsors Exelon (Robin and Steve Solomon), Food for Thought Catering and Ventas and with the support of the Host Committee and the advocacy of CST’s Board of Directors.

Congrats to the Evening Associates Board of Directors of the Art Institute of

Evening Associates Chairman Jeremy Rothschild and Erika Knierim

Chicago! They threw one of the coolest events in recent memory at the Modern Wing of the museum on July 11. Nearly 900 young movers, shakers and art lovers enjoyed an evening inspired by the museum's latest exhibit: Magritte: The Mystery of the Ordinary, 1926-1938. Surrealism was the watchword of the evening as mixologists brewed exotic concoctions inspired by paintings in the exhibit. Liquid

Katherine Harper, Matt Mullin, Grace Palacio, co-chair Autumn Fincher, Devin Donnelly

nitrogen poured off Adam Seger's drinks as guests oohed and aahed. Drink-master Alex Renshaw of Drumbar was inspired by the artist's mysterious painting of "The Lovers". Other mixologists included Jeff Donahue, Wade McElroy, Danny Shapiro and Paul McGee. Even the food (from Bon Appetit) evoked surrealism with sweet and savory "mystery" snacks, pork belly sliders and whoopie pies. Spin Spun Confections served gourmet cotton candy on glowing light-sticks in three flavors: maple bacon, chocolate and Cajun flavors. The typical photo booth was decidedly un-typical at this event where guests were encouraged to "unthink" their usual expectations for a party. Christopher Free (Project Captured)

Evening Associates Board of the Art Institute of Chicago

worked his magic in a huge industrial-sized elevator using the shiny metal as the perfect backdrop for the chic crowd, many wearing bowler hats and carrying green apples in a nod to two of Magritte's motifs. Throughout the evening, docent guided tours were also offered to guests (I strongly urge you to see it through

Damien Hawcroft, Lauren Mazur, Kristin Culbertson, David Heger

October 13!). Matt Woodburn (Sound Investment) added his touch to the surrealist environment with colorful projections on the walls as DJs Matt Roan, Gilligan Moss and Ryan Paradise kept the crowd on the dance floor. Evening Associates Board President Jeremy Rothschild said, "What makes the EA unique is that in addition to hosting marquee events like Night Heist and After Dark, we also collaborate with the museum on

Jacqueline Hoover and Antoine Jennings

programming initiatives." Co-chaired by Autumn Fincher and Justin Kay, the event raised more than $60,000 for Evening Associate's programming on behalf of the Art Institute of Chicago. (Check out the fun from this exciting event in my Chicago Tribune column here!

The 17^th annual Misericordia Artist In All event was also held at the Art Institute's Modern Wing with more than 1,700 guests in attendance

Honorary co-chairs Charlie and Rebecca Besser and Elena and Brennan with Kristina and Mike McGrath and Peg Lombardo

recently. Rebecca and Charlie Besser were this year's honorary chairs with Rebecca Pasquesi and Jen Surma serving as co-chairs. Artist In All is hosted by the Misericordia Siblings Association, specifically the brothers and sisters of Misericordia artists. The exhibit consisted of more than 200 pieces of

Lois Gates, Sr. Rosemary Connelly, Fr. Jack Clair of Misericordia and Nina Mariano.

artwork created by the residents of Misericorida that included paintings, ceramic, wood and jewelry. New York based artist Gabriel Specter contributed two collaborative paintings with Misericordia residents. In addition to the silent auction, guests enjoyed a delicious array of culinary edible arts catered by Jay Sympson and the onsite

Dan Walsh, Walsh Construction Group, with daughters Renee and Amy and friend Molly.

staff of Bon Appetit. More than $500,000 was raised through event sponsorship and art sales with all of the money going to Misericordia Heart of Mercy Home in Chicago that supports more than 1200 children and adults with developmental disabilities. Northern Trust Company was the Grand Sponsor. Love this organization and the beloved Sister Rosemary Connelly! (Photos by Gregg Hartemayer)

Gary Sinise and Sgt. Bryan Anderson

Gary Sinise will honor our nation's veterans, defenders, first responders and their families with a special benefit luncheon, Inspiration to Action, at Arlington International Racecourse on Sunday, August 3. Proceeds from this day at the races will benefit the Gary Sinise Foundation which provides unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities for those in need.The event will honor U. S. Army Sargeant Bryan Anderson who lost both his legs and much of

Event emcee Tom Dreesen

his left arm in an IED attack three months before he finished his second tour in Iraq in 2005. He is a Purple Heart recipient. Hosted by beloved comedian and Foundation Ambassador, Tom Dreesen, the program will begin at 11:30 am with the luncheon scheduled for noon. A $250 ticket will include a Chef's Table, Supreme Bar and a seat in the International Ballroom for the program. Howard Sudberry, Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications for Arlington International Racecourse, will offer betting lessons and exciting auctioneer Greg Dellinger will be on hand to hammer down some unique auction packages for this worthy cause! Come spend a day at Arlington and pay tribute to the brave men and women that protect us and have given so much for our country and our freedom. #GivingBack (Gary Sinise explains his mission here.)

Fig & Olive Exec. Chef Pascal Lorgange, founder Lauren Halasz, Mayor Richard Galy

What?! An entire menu prepared with NO butter, just olive oil? They had me at hello for the grand opening of Chicago's newest hotspot, Fig & Olive, located at 104 E. Oak Street. This stunning "olive oil oasis" brings a delicious taste of the French Riviera, Italy and Spain to the Gold Coast in grand style. Chef Pascal Lorange's menu had the opening night crowds of more than 600 oohing and aahing for the dual Red Carpet events that included the Mayor of Mougins, France, Richard Galy, as

Jay Schuster and Laura Modica

well as Fig & Olive founder Laurent Halasz.

During the first Thursday opening, themed "An Evening in Italy", Neiman Marcus upped the glam factor with looks from its Italian Designer Collections as models donning the designer duds wended their way through the appreciative crowd. For Friday's event, themed "An Evening in the South of France,

Janet Mandell, Jacob Neminarz, Monika and Geoff Dixon

Lanvin showcased looks from its elegant collection. I LOVE Fig & Olive! Besides the delicious food, the staff there is wonderful, too! Jasper Nowell does a great job as guest relations manager and Joe Taylor, regional operations director, is fabulous. Robin

John Allen, Brittney Ross, Michelle Dayiantis, Jessica Cashier

McKay is their capable events manager and sommelier Michael Burch really knows his stuff in the wine department, too. We adore sweet server Jessie, too!

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and brunch on Sundays. On weekends, special holidays and for private events the ambiance is amplified by top notch DJs like

Krista Ward, Julee White and Kristina McGrath

St. Tropez celebrity DJ Nolan. Fig & Olive has six other locations, four in NY and two in California, each serving delightful fare in an elegant "yet approachable setting suitable for any occasion." It's just what we needed on the Gold Coast, a beautiful, inviting spot for locals to congregate with great food and great service. Welcome Fig & Olive! (312.445.0060)

Don't wait to snag your ticket for the hottest fashion event of the summer, Macy's Passport Presents Glamorama, coming to the Harris Theater on Friday, August 8! This exciting show featuring recording sensation Jason Derulo, will include eye-popping choreography, gorgeous models and the chicest Macy's fashions from Calvin Klein, Diesel, I.N.C International Concepts, Tommy Hilfiger and MORE! With any ticket purchase of $175 or more, you can join other fun-loving fashionistas at an exclusive after-party on the Rooftop Terrace at Millennium Park!! SHOW ONLY TIX $75!

On Sunday, September 21, the Primo Center for Women and Children will hold its third annual signature fundraiser, Primo Classico d' Europa. Hosted and co-chaired by Diane and Quintin Primo, this year’s event will be held at Lake Forest Sportscars in Lake Bluff and will once again immerse attendees in an afternoon of the European

Quintin and Diane Primo

lux life: precision automobiles, fashions and jewelry, gourmet cuisine and wines, culture and a super deluxe auction conducted by the one and only Greg Dellinger. This year's celebrity Man of Vision honoree will be legendary tennis star Jimmy Connors. Chicago's own Kate Gaynor will be

Honoree Jimmy Connors

honored as the Woman of Vision for her dedicated, ongoing support. Last year more than $400,000 was raised for the Center, a highly regarded non-profit servicing the critical transitional and permanent housing needs of Chicago-area homeless families. The funds raised are crucial in helping a portion of the almost 94,000 homeless individuals in Chicago. I

Honoree Kate Gaynor (pic by Mila Samokhina)

hope you can attend this event to help the Center continue its life-altering impact for homeless families. For tickets and more info, please click here. I hope to see you there!

It's been ten long years since Antiques Roadshow was in Chicago and it took less than an hour for it to sell out completely. We were watching PBS when the offer came up during its fundraising segment. Our fingers flew to the phone and, as luck would have it, we were able to purchase two Golden Tickets to this show dedicated to discovering America's hidden treasures! Shortly after our ticket purchase, we were contacted by Dan Protess, senior producer for WTTW's "Behind the Scenes at the Roadshow", asking if we would be interested in letting him and his crew follow us during the process. They came to our house the day before to film and interview me about what we intended to bring. I took my Playboy Bunny of the Year costume along with a lot of collateral material that included two trophies (one from the local Chicago pageant and the other from the International Bunny of the Year contest that was filmed in LA for ABC at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion) among other items. The LA pageant attracted every celebrity you could think of. My program booklet (which I also brought) had autographs from O.J. Simpson (who had ironically included the word "peace" below his signature), Milton Berle, Dick Martin, Ringo Starr, Jim Brown and, of course, Hef. My silver lame costume was complete with two sets

Receiving filming instructions from WTTW's Dan Protess

of matching ears, well worn heels, a pair of cuffs with the original black Bunny head cufflinks, collar with clip-on bowtie, extra silver costume laces, extra "Candy" rosette name tag.....I even had the pack of bobby pins I used to keep the ears on as well as my hose! To say it was "complete" was an understatement! Additionally, I brought my Playboy Bunny training manuel that included instructions on how to do the famous "Bunny Dip". We were shepherded

Renowned antique toy appraiser Noel Barrett

to the front of the line at McCormick Place (the original one on the lake) since we were going to be filmed for the "Behind the Scenes" show, but when we reached the appraiser, she immediately asked for the show producer who asked us if we would appear on the national show. Woot! Woot! (It will air in January). We were then taken to the Green Room where those who were going to be on-camera were spruced up by makeup artists. I signed a release and watched other people having their things appraised on a monitor. One woman had

Taping at our apt. for the "Behind the Scenes" show

brought about 5 vintage outfits from Abbey Road, a clothing boutique the Beatles had owned for a few months before they shut it down. Apparently, the staff and customers were stealing more than they were buying, so the Fab Four closed the store. I heard one of the outfits was estimated at $3500 (she had paid $100 in the early '60's)....I don't know how many pieces she had, but it was cool to find out the Beatles had tried their hand at retail! Who knew? Before the event, we were sent all sorts of info concerning the experience. There were 70 appraisers who covered more than 22 specialties at the show. They don't appraise

WTTW senior producer Dan Protess and his "Behind the Scenes" crew

coins, stamps, paper currency, bicycles, fossils, tools, glass fire extinguishers (?!) or explosives and hazardous materials (?!?!?)...No surprise here! Each ticket holder was allowed two items. We also took two rare books and an autographed movie script. Since I'm a Harry Potter freak, I was curious about my Goblet of Fire first edition presentation copy inscribed by J.K. Rowling to her father. In the full page inscription, she also reveals who the character Ron

So excited!

Weasley was in real life. The book is dedicated to "Mr. Ridley", who was a friend of her father's and the person who inspired Ron. I also took a script signed by the entire cast from the first film, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Chuck is a collector of modern first editions and he was curious about an Ian Fleming book. The first James Bond film was Dr. No starring Sean Connery. His first edition book was signed by the actor with an accompanying photo. The Roadshow team operates like Seal Team 6 and are super-pros!

A fuzzy pic of my taping with appraiser Laura Woolley (The Collector's Lab)

It was a positively delightful experience from beginning to end! Stay tuned for my segment coming in January to find out if we were successful or not! :-))) #RoadshowRules

This blog is going to be a little shorter than usual, which you may like better! LOL! I enjoyed a getaway last week with Chuck as we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary! We enjoyed a lot of fun in the sun that I'll share in my next post. In the meantime, here are some tips I shared on Chicago Now

Anniversary collage by Tommy Hundley

last year on our 24th anniversary for keeping the spark alive and how to have a happy marriage!

Love, as always,
Candace :-)

P.S. Hope you enjoy Candid Candace in the Chicago Tribune every Sunday! If you missed it this week, read here!

PAWS CHICAGO HAS PRIDE; MADHATTER'S BALL; FIG & OLIVE HITS OAK; BORRIS AND KYLE TEAM UP; DIFFA'S CRYSTAL BALL; CAITLIN'S "BEAUTIFUL LIFE"; CHAZ PRESENTS "LIFE ITSELF"; JOANNE'S "ON THE LEDGE"; PIERRE'S NEXT MOVE; MISS CONTINENTAL PAGEANT; SHINE & DINE; FRENCH RIVIERA MEMORIES; STARVING ARTIST; EYE-BANK HONORS; A SILVER LINING'S TASTING STARS PARTY; LEAGUE OF CHICAGO THEATRES GALA; FUN-FILLED BIRTHDAYS AND SO MUCH MORE!

I hope you all had a great July 4th weekend! If you were lucky, the BBQ was on the grill and the beer and wine were flowing! Some of our favorite memories of this holiday are from St. Tropez on the French Riviera where we've been lucky to celebrate with friends from around the globe. And even though we partied stateside this year, my spirit was still there dancing on the tables at La Voile Rouge, draped in an American flag and drinking copious amounts of le vin du pays with my friends. Here's some of my thoughts on holidays past. Believe it or not, the French celebrate our holiday as exuberantly as we do at home! And, since we all know that the best place to be is always where your friends are, for over 17 years we've met up with an eclectic mix of friends in this ultra chic "fishing village" to celebrate our Independence Day. After our first trip there in the early '90's, we were completely hooked. I finally got to see for myself the inspiration that has existed there for decades for artists and writers. You will never see "light" like this anywhere else in the world. It bathes everything it touches in the warmest glow and could make a 90 year-old woman look like a wood nymph. It's such a magical place that one can never imagine any illness or unhappiness occurring there. The July 4th celebration in St. Tropez is actually sort of a week long party that always begins at Le Club 55 "Cinquate Cinq", the most elegant beach club, and ended at La Voile Rouge ("The Red Sail"), the wildest of them all. Considered the birth place of the beach club, La Voile Rouge, sadly, no longer exists since the neighbors complained about noise levels. I think this is surprising since it's never been anything different since it was brought to life in 1966 by the late Paul Tomaselli. (This club was also the first to have topless guests. Woo Hoo!). In any case, we were thrilled to be there when it was still going strong and the tables, chairs, bars, walls, everything was covered in shades of red, white and blue for this festive occasion. Even the waitstaff were all dressed patriotically.... skimpily, but patriotically! The party started around noon and lasted until the sun was a burnt cinder and/or you ran out of energy, whichever came first. As always on this day American specialties were served and included hamburgers, hotdogs and corn on the cob. Even though we yearned for authentic French food, it was always fabulous fun by the sea. I hope your weekend celebrations were special and you made lasting memories, too!

PAWS Chicago, for the fourth year in a row, came out strong this past Sunday at Chicago’s annual Pride Parade. Over one hundred volunteers, employees, Development Board members (including Founder Paula Fasseas and President Alexis Fasseas) joined hands to say thank you to Chicago’s LGBTQ community! The weather couldn’t have been nicer and the crowd of over 1,000,000 more enthusiastic to see PAWS Chicago’s support! Chicago’s own incomparable Miss Lucy Foozie was the first in line, followed by a parade banner announcing their presence. “I’m so proud of the love and support from the community and all they’ve done to increase awareness of the no-kill movement in not only the City of Chicago, but statewide,” said PAWS Chicago Pride Co-Chair/Development Board member Bonnie Krueger. “This is our way of giving back to those who’ve given and to say thank you so much—we’re all part of the same Chicago community and today we embrace each other in support.” PAWS Chicago ‘walkers’ sang, dance, blew whistles and embraced and thanked the crowd by giving out 5,000 PAWS Chicago Pride button/pins. Next up was the float, funded by John and Christine Mallul, which was led by PAWS Chicago mascots Pepe and Happy. Empowering songs like We Are Family, Respect, I Believe, Who Let The Dogs Out and big crowd pleaser Fancy blared from the speakers as the crowd blew kisses and shared the love back. As a special thank you-- Development Board member Cheri Lawrence sponsored the after-party and invited everyone (all volunteers, Development Board members) to DOC Wine Bar on Clark Street to enjoy spirits, fabulous food and camaraderie—and to say thank you! PAWS Chicago Pride Co-Chairs Bonnie L. Krueger-Spurlock and Nancy Sterling were joined by committee members Christine and John Mallul, Cheri Lawrence, Kim Gleason, Linda Lahey, Lynne Styles, Anita Mauro, Judy Tullman, Wayne Gailis, Alexis Fasseas, Renata and Robert Block, Vince Coraci, Trey Arbonne, David Sarama, Robert Hovermale. Dori Wilson and Mitch Serrano for another amazing event to spread the love and raise awareness for PAWS Chicago, the Midwest's only no-kill animal shelter! (Photos by Richard Chen).

Chicago Artists Coalition’s (CAC) annual benefit, Starving Artist, whet creative appetites with imaginative fare and whimsical, edible installations in celebration of the organization’s 40th anniversary on June 21. Taking place at CAC’s West Loop gallery space (217 N. Carpenter St.), Starving Artist welcomed more than 300 guests into four unique, multiple sensory environments, that meshed culinary and visual arts by pairing visual artists Diana Gabriel, Luftwerk, Alexandra Noe and Edyta Stepien with Chefs Matthias Merges (Yusho), Chris Pandel (Bristol/Balena), Kyle Peterson (Fulton Market Kitchen) and Jared Van Camp (Element Collective). Guests were greeted with a welcome cocktail by Revae Schneider of Femme Du Coupe before entering into Alexandra Noe’s “living room” hive lounge. Cocktails by Jason Brown of Kinmont were served in the buzzing space, complete with floating laser-cut bees, pollen sculptures and hexagonal serving platters that held honey and ricotta beignets, green tea and sesame macaroons with honey-cured wild salmon created by Chef Jared Van Camp of Element Collective. Artist Diana Gabriel’s striking red and orange string installation was accented by Colombian food, including goats milk cheese, puffed coconut rice and crispy stuffed plantains by Chef Chris Pandel of Bristol and Balena, alongside cocktails by Jason Ackerman of Bristol and gin-infused coffee from Intelligentsia. White paper blossoms by artist Edyta Stepien in the adjoining gallery space covered the walls like points on a map, complimented by Fulton Market Kitchen Chef Kyle Peterson's bay scallop ceviche and seaweed salad and Beverage Director Brian Sturgulewski’s Boston Club Punch. Artist collaborative Luftwerk filled the lower level of CAC with a moving light installation that bounced through a presentation of tequila cocktails by Billy Sunday mixologist Alexander Bachman and a curtain of pig skins, created by Yusho Chef Matthias Merges. Chef Merges also dotted a fried gnudi appetizer across an artful table of arugula pesto, pepperoncini and Calabrian Chili, that resulted in an aftermath of smeared sauces resembling an abstract painting. Adjacent to this memorable display, CAC’s Sweet Shop allowed guests to take treats home, including Das Caramels, Gary Poppins Popcorn, Tate’s Cookies, Vosges Haut-Chocolat and artist-made fortune cookies. Performances, including Nicole LeGette’s Blushing Poppy Dance Club and the Safire Belly Dancers of Chicago to name a few, added interactive entertainment throughout the evening, along with music from DJ Victor Carreon, who helped close out the event with a lively dance party. The event raised more than $83,000 in support of CAC’s unique programming, which strives to build a sustainable marketplace for local artists by providing them with educational resources, exhibition opportunities and entrepreneurial networks. Co-chaired by Olga Markoff and Lesley Prizant Goodman, Starving Artist attracted guests who included CAC Board Chairman and EXPO CHICAGO President/Director Tony Karman, United States Artists CEO Carolina Garcia Jayaram, photographer Susan Aurinko, Christie’s Senior Vice President/Midwest Managing Director Lisa Cavanaugh, Gensler Design Director Todd Heiser, Music Box Theatre Owner William Schopf, Consultant Joel Straus, and Karim Ahamed, Nancy Herring, Carmelita Tiu, Steven Collens, Katharine Schutta and Jeffrey Shapack. 2014 Maker Grant honoree John Preus, Natural Resources Defense Council Resident Artist Jenny Kendler and THE MISSION’s Rebecca Eaton and Sebastian Campos were also on hand for the event. "We are thrilled by the continued enthusiasm and support for the fourth annual Starving Artist," said CAC Interim Executive Director Sara Slawnik. "This annual fundraiser has proven itself as a unique art party, combining creatives working in very different disciplines to reflect CAC’s cross-disciplinary mission.” Congrats to all!

With the theme "A New Chapter" brought to life by a library-themed-bar created by Spex Optical, the mission of the Illinois Eye-Bank (IEB) was front and center at its 16^th Annual Gift of Sight Gala on Thursday, June 19. The event raised $100,000 to help restore sight to the more than 1,600 people IEB serves throughout Illinois and more than 3,000 worldwide each year and honored North Shore author Sherrill Bodine as this year's Woman of Vision. Dr. Charles Bouchard, Loyola University Chicago Chairman of Ophthalmology, was the 2014 Gift of Sight honoree. The night’s focus on preserving and restoring vision was underscored by a distinctive photo booth where guests’ eyes were the highlight, and an expressive collage of these ‘soul-windows’ was pinned up for all to admire. Event co-chairs Dr. David Donnersberger and Eileen Howard-Weinberg made brief remarks to the 200 attendees, as did IEB Executive Director Diane Hollingsworth. Violinist Katarina Visnevska performed during the cocktail hour. Guests mingled both outside on the hotel’s terrace and inside in a festive ballroom and bid on an array of items in the silent auction. Guests for the evening included past honorees Jean Antoniou, Dr. Randy Epstein, Greg Hyder, John and Myra Reilly, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Dr. Joel Sugar, Susanna Negovan and Mamie Walton. Congrats Sherrill and Charles!

With the perfect mixture of champagne, charity and breathtaking city views, the Tasting Stars event, held at DIRTT Environmental Solutions Showroom, attracted more than 150 guests. In its 12^th year, the Tasting Stars premier champagne event raised over $45,000, and for the fourth consecutive year benefited A Silver Lining Foundation’s Buy A Mom A Mammogram® program. Proceeds from the evening funded the entire spectrum of breast health testing at The Evelyn Goldberg Mammography Center at the University of Illinois Hospital. The center is named in honor of the foundation’s Founder and Chairman, Dr. Sandy Goldberg’s, mother whose philosophy “we are all family and we have to help each other through the tough times” is the cornerstone of ASLF’s mission. Founder and Chairman Goldberg created A Silver Lining Foundation in 2002 to ensure that socioeconomic status never affects an individual's ability to obtain information, timely cancer screenings and/or diagnosis. For more information click here or call 312-345-1322. Congrats on all you do Sandy!

The League of Chicago Theatres celebrated the Chicago theater industry and community during its elegant annual Gala at the Swissotel Chicago recently. This one-night-only event brought together friends of Chicago theatre and raised $120,000 for programs to support Chicago’s 240 member theatre companies. Champions of Chicago theatre honored at this year’s event included The Alphawood Foundation, awarded the 2014 Advocacy Award; Michelle Boone, Commissioner, and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events was honored with the Tribute Award; and the Artistic Excellence Award was awarded to director Gary Griffin. Executive Producer Ben Fuchsen and Executive Director Brad Jayhan-Little accepted the Broadway in Chicago Emerging Theatre Award on behalf of Oracle Productions. The evening also included cocktails, a seated dinner, live and silent auctions and live performances. Robert Upton, 2014 winner of the Chicago arm of the August Wilson Monologue Competition, performed his winning piece from Wilson’s Seven Guitars. In a tribute to Artistic Excellence Award Winner Gary Griffin, numbers from some of Griffin’s most notable Chicago productions were performed, including selections from Gypsy, Road Show, and The Color Purple. League of Chicago Theatres board member Jan Kallish, Producer, Jan Kallish Productions, was the darling Gala Chair for this year’s celebration. (Photos by Kimmy Noonen).

Lookingglass Theatre’s Junior Board hosted its 13^th Annual Madhatter’s Ball at Block 37 on June 14. More than 650of Chicago's young arts supporters enjoyed carnival cocktails, delicious bites from local restaurants, fun house games and performances from circus artists from the Actor’s Gymnasium and more. This year’s celebration raised $60,000 to support the operation and expansion of Lookingglass' education and community programs, which encourage self-esteem and creativity in thousands of students every year. The event also featured a carnival of gourmet bites from restaurants that included BlackFinn, Gino's East, Sunda, Taco Joint and Zed451. A cavalcade of entertainment featured photo memories from Action Booth, Benjamin Barnes Magic, Windy City Rollers, DJs Brock Manke and Lani Love and more. The Ball was hosted by Artistic Associates Lindsey Noel Whiting and Kareem Bandealy. The event was co-chaired by Jessica Barrutia, Junior Board VP of Marketing & PR (Hill+Knowlton Strategies), Jennalee Reiff, Junior Board VP of Sponsorship (Design Kitchen), Jordan Rummel, Junior Board Social Committee Chair (Mesirow Financial).

There's a hot new restaurant in town that has Chicago buzzing with excitement! Fig & Olive opened recently to rave reviews at 104 E. Oak Street! I loved the fresh, inviting decor and the food was spectacular! It's 10,000' ft, two levels with a gorgeous bar. Congrats to Jasper Nowell (awesome guest relations manager!), sweet Joe Taylor (regional director of operations) and Robin McKay (events manager) on a beautiful spot on a street that desperately needed YOU! See you again very soon!

This summer, a cool partnership will shake LGBT entertainment and fashion. Nationally respected fashion designer, Borris Powell, on the cusp of launching a brand new men’s line, has chosen rising star film director/producer, Kyle Thomas, as the face of his anticipated “Freedom” line. Kyle Thomas, who is producing and directing the highly anticipated upcoming show, SEX + LOVE, is honored to partner with Powell. “There’s a huge shift in culture with marriage being granted to LGBT individuals, and Borris and I have had long conversations about how there’s a desire within gay culture to focus less on the raw sexuality of past decades and to now be courted by a gentleman. Being a gentleman is inherently classic. We grew up on Disney films. It doesn’t matter whether you’re straight or gay, being a gentleman is sexy,” Thomas states. Borris agrees, “It’s about the art and the way that we can make people feel. We want to give people that sense of glamour and romance, whether it be for three hours when she’s in my gown or he’s in my suit. We all want that romance and fantasy, and those things exist here and now. You just have to believe in them once again.” (Photos by Ronald Leon Hale, makeup by Lauren Wiltgen).

One of my favorite photogs, Caitlin Collins Saville, is having an exhibition of her work in Lake Forest, on Friday, July 25. The opening reception for "Beautiful Life" will be at Re-invent Gallery, 202 Wisconsin Ave. from 6-9pm. The exhibition of fine art images will be on display through September 6. Lake Forest native, Caitlin Saville Collins is a member of one of the oldest family's in Lake Forest's history and has always had a passion for viewing life through a lens. Her solo photographic exhibition will highlight many different stages and subjects of her career and lifetime as a Lake Forest resident. Food and drink will be served and all are welcome. For more info, visit www.reinventlf.com

The 26th annual Crystal Ball, hosted by DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Chicago), was held at Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom recently. This black-tie affair was the fourth in a series of Believe Galas dedicated to DIFFA/Chicago grantees and raised more than $500K to help fund education and advocacy to advance the fight against AIDS. This year's spirited gala theme, The Crystal Ball, built awareness among the over 700 attendees that a future without AIDS is possible. The evening's program celebrated new developments and discoveries while recognizing individuals and organizations supporting AIDS research. Catherine De Orio, new host of Chicago's "Check, Please!" and gala emcee, engaged the crowd as well as keynote speaker Dr. John Flaherty, HIV specialist and Director of Infectious Diseases Fellowship Training Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. They were joined by Meg and Jim Prendergast and Hunter Kaiser who conducted the live auction. The event was co-chaired by Frances Renk (LOVE HER!), Ron Leiserowitz, Lynn Fordon and Mary Jo Fasan. The evening's entertainment featured the U.S. debut of the Famous Band, one of Canada's top touring bands, and had the crowd on its feet. There was also a fabulous performance by a Michael Jackson impersonator who performed "Thriller" among other Jackson hits. As tradition has it, the night ended with the announcement of DIFFA/Chicago's Unsung Hero. This honor went to the organization's hardworking Auxiliary Board. For more info, click here. Congrats to ALL!

Birthdays, birthdays, birthdays! I know my friends are getting sick of celebrating (LOL!), but I was thrilled to share another party with fellow Gemini friends Lynn McMahan and Toni Canada. It was a fun gathering at Tavern on Rush recently where the champagne (and Pinot Grigio) flowed! Patty Brand Nalepa wrapped our lovely gifts in custom paper from her new company, ISnapWrap.com. Rochelle Trotter conducted a fun game in her exuberant style and had everyone in tears (laughing not crying!). There were balloons, darling cakes, lovely gifts and, most importantly, the shared fun with beautiful friends. Thanks so much for making this big birthday so memorable! Partygoers included Kristina McGrath, Korinna Isselhardt, Jan Flanagan, Dusty Stemer, Michaela Parrillo, Rebecca Besser, Dede Lubeznik and Nina Mariano. Muah!

Alderman Bob Fioretti surprised his longtime lady-love, Nicki Pecori, with a birthday party at Rosebud on Taylor Street. More than 50 friends from all over the country feted this beloved lady with an after-party following at their home. Guests included Tribune writer Rick Kogan and his darling Kate, Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her Greg among many others. Love and Happy Birthday Nicki!

Another birthday boy celebrated his big day recently, Bunky Cushing! If you're not reading his entertaining social commentary on his own blog, The Squire of Society, or his columns in local magazines, then you are really missing out on what's happening in the Windy City! Happy birthday Bunky!!

Congrats to Chaz Ebert and director Steve James who co-hosted the Chicago premiere of "Life Itself", the unflinching look at the life of legendary film critic Roger Ebert. Based on his best-selling memoir of the same name, the film explores the legacy of Ebert's life, from his Pulitzer Prize-winning film criticism at the Sun-Times to becoming one of the most influential cultural voices in America. It's a must-see. It's heartbreakingly honest and is inspiring from beginning to end. Roger wanted to show his world, warts and all. As he told one of the film's producers, Michael Ferro, he didn't want to be portrayed as an icon, he was a film critic. During the Q & A at the Museum of Contemporary Art, the crowd gave Chaz and Steve a much deserved standing O. Executive produced by Martin Scorsese (The Departed) and Steven Zaillian (Moneyball), the documentary recounts the inspiring and entertaining life of Ebert---"a story that is by turns personal, funny, painful and transcendent." (The film is now running at the Landmark Century Centre Cinema and is also available on ITunes and VOD.)

Do you have a "black thumb" when it comes to gardening? Would you like your terrace to look "camera-ready"? If so, you need to call fabulous urban landscaper Joanne Greene! "On the Ledge Landscaping" has a gift for the art of gardening that's reflected in her stunning window boxes, urban planters, small landscapes and rooftop gardens for city dwellers in the Chicagoland area. I was fortunate to have Joanne help design my terrace and I think it looks fabulous! Her plant choices were spot-on and are thriving and she helped me add the drama I needed. Now I've even attracted cardinals and finches to my aerie in the sky, thanks to Joanne! She also designed WCIU's "You & Me This Morning" co-host Jeanne Sparrow's terrace and it looks beautiful! AND Chicago Magazine named her the "Best Windowbox Designer". For a complimentary consultation, call 312.560.5815. Happy Planting!

Huge congrats and good luck to beloved Joffrey Ballet Community Outreach director, Pierre Lockett. After many years with the Joffrey, he is stepping down to continue to follow his passion of transforming lives through dance by working with youth from the Chicago Public Schools, the Chicago Park District and various dance schools throughout the city as an independent consultant. He has impacted the lives of thousands of Chicago's youth (and the lives of their families) and I'm thrilled he will be continuing to share his joy and passion for dance around the city. We are so lucky to have him in our lives! Mayor Rahm Emanuel declared June 30 to be Pierre Lockett Day in Chicago. I think it should be EVERY day for all the good he does! Happy dancing Pierre!

I've always been a fan of The Baton Show Lounge and through the years have taken friends, fans and celebs there to enjoy this one-of-a-kind show that stars female impersonators Chilli Pepper, Mimi Marks, Sasha Colby, Ginger Grant and so many talented others. The Continental Pageantry Systems have become famous for their success in producing the most elite and competitive pageants around the globe with the best of the best in the art of female impersonation competing for the coveted titles. Credit for the success of the Continental Pageantry Systems is found in the man that started it all, Jim Flint. Over the years, the System has grown to include not only the Miss Continental Pageant but also the Miss Continental Plus and Elite contest as well as the MR Continental Contest. This year's Miss Continental event prelims will be held on Sunday, August 31 with the finals being held on Labor Day, Monday, September 1st, at the Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield. Each contestant puts on a performance worthy of Broadway! For tickets or more info, call 312.527.9338 or visit www.theBatonShowLounge.com

The 3rd annual Chicago Arkive Benefit, a not-for-profit leader in the global conservancy effort, was held on June 19 at the Racquet Club with beloved Jack Hanna, Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, as guest speaker. There was an afternoon invite for children and parents/grandparents to meet and get up close and personal to Hanna and some of his favorite animals from the Columbus Zoo. They included a cheetah, a serval, a clouded leopard, penguin, kangaroo, palm civet, a sloth and an armadillo! As
nature's "media vault", Arkive's goal is to collect and link stunning wildlife imagery, state-by-state with local conservation organizations in order to raise awareness for conservation of the natural world. Co-chaired by Cindy and Christopher Galvin and Sue and Terrance Graunke, the event raised more than $100K.

Shine & Dine will host its annual networking event to benefit Step-Up Women's Network on August 7 at Bridgeport Art Center's Skyline Loft, 1200 W. 35th St. Enjoy delicious tastings from top Chicago restaurants, meet-and-greet with Step-Up teens, a silent auction and more. SUWN empowers girls from under-resourced communities to live up to their full potentials through mentoring opportunities. This year's event will honor Catherine De Orio (host, Check, Please! and Kenia Rodgriguez (Step Up Class of 2012, DePaul University 2016). (Click here for tickets and more info).

Congrats to beloved philanthropist Francee Harrington on her recent appointment as President and Chief Development Officer of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Foundation! They are so lucky to have her! :-)

Hope you're enjoying this beautiful summer! And remember, I want YOUR news! If there's anything fun or interesting, please send it my way! I love to celebrate ALL things Chicago and the fabulous people in it!

Love, as always,

Candace
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