Victor and Cindy on cover of Chicago Tribune's Style.
He had an unerring eye. Victor Skrebneski saw the world in black and white with subtle shades in between and no one has ever photographed it like he did. I remember a comment he once made about how much he loved Paris, a city he referred to as his "muse." He said it was because "nothing there offends my eye." I never forgot
Supermodel Carmen Dell' Orefice's favorite (iconic) photo, by Victor.
this...He made the commonplace seem grand and the grand even grander. He was a genius and one that we, as Chicagoans, were always thrilled and proud to call our own. We almost lost him to NYC but, thanks to his longtime friend and supermodel Carmen Dell'Orifice,
Inside looking out from Victor's spotless studio on LaSalle.(9/15/13)
he stayed in the Windy City. He had spoken to her in the '50s about moving and she asked the most logical question, "Why would you want to leave Chicago when you're positioned as the greatest fashion and portrait photographer outside of NYC? The opportunities for you being in Chicago would be endless!" She was right and
Sherren Leigh and Victor.
he stayed, although I'm pretty sure he would've made history wherever he chose to live. My first encounter with Victor came in
TCW Mag 31st anniversary cover shot by Victor in 2013.
2013, when I had the honor of appearing on the 31st anniversary cover of Today's Chicago Woman Magazine, thanks to its dynamic founder Sherren Leigh. I was thrilled with the idea of appearing on the cover but when I heard it would be shot by the legendary Skrebneski, I damn near lost my mind. He didn't remember our first "almost" meeting though
Dennis Minkel and Victor from my favorite book by the photog, "Ageing".
back in my modeling days. I was sent by my agent for a "go-see" to his famed studio at 1350 N. LaSalle. Then as now, having Victor shoot a photo of you was considered the holy grail of the industry. To be shot by him said you had arrived and in a very big way. Well, I was flatly rejected because
Andrea Schwartz' beautiful Victor portrait, won at a PAWS Fur Ball live auction.
I was only 5' 7" and he insisted his models be 5'8" or over. He wouldn't even look at me .....I remember Jovanna Papadakis, who was his right hand woman at the time, even apologized to me as she thought I had some potential. Sun-Times writer Larry Findley said in Jovanna's obit that she was "the stern
Kerry Harper Melchi, a favorite model of Victor's.
gatekeeper who protected the inner sanctum of Victor Skrebneski's famous photography studio." Her friend Camilla Hawk said, "The models shuddered in
Another favorite model of Victor's, Deborah Larsen.
their boots when they walked in. Her reputation spread far and wide that she was a fearsome taskmaster. No model got past her to show their book to Victor. She would take the book, and if she thought it was appropriate, she would show it to him." Well, Jovanna did show it to him but still he wouldn't see me. This was one of the great regrets of my life, but happily, Sherren Leigh and TCW made my dream come true in later years. As I pulled into his
Sexy Dori Wilson, who was a friend and model for Victor.
driveway for the TCW shoot on Sept. 15, 2013, I purposely slowed down and put the top down on my car hoping someone would see me pulling in. When I opened the
Dori by Victor.
big, imposing wooden door, there was Dennis Minkel, Victor's assistant and studio manager, with a big grin on his face....I relaxed. And then there was Victor, also with a big smile, and I knew I was among friends. Suddenly, my worries about squeezing into a too tight Herve Leger dress were behind me and I could only focus on the studio and the legends who had been shot there and the decor. All in shades of white and beige, with his famous portraits dotting the walls, it was truly an honor and a privilege to be invited inside. Sherren was there
Kerry Harper Melchi by Victor.
as well as four beautiful models who would be shooting the fashion feature. Representatives from A. Marek Fine Jewelry were on hand, too, including an imposing security guard
Dr. Steve Stryker by Victor, a sweet anniversary gift.
who followed me everywhere once I'd been layered with their exquisite diamond necklaces. The photography space was all white with a step-down that I'm sure has brought many a client and model to their knees as their eyes scanned the room and not the floor as they entered. The lighting was deceptively simple .....clearly, here was a man who didn't require a bank of white lights to make someone look good. No, this lighting was for a genius who knew exactly what he wanted before he shot
Fast friends, Maria Pappas, Victor and Leslie Hindman.
it and knew what it would look like before he even snapped his Hasselblad's shutter. This was not a photographer who took
A 50+ year friendship/collab--Michael Kutza and Victor at the unveiling of his last poster for the Festival.
all day long to get "the" shot either. Victor took very few shots and stopped when he knew he had what he wanted. I was in awe. Even after the cover shot, when he cleared the studio for a private portrait (which was much to my surprise as I had no idea he planned on doing this!), there was no time wasted. As Frank
Sugar Rautbord shot by Victor.
Sinatra played in the background, the shot took just a few lighting adjustments and an arch of my back for Victor to say, "We have it." Victor shot the covers for TCW Mag for
A beautiful friendship--Victor, Carmen Dell' Orefice and Peter Martino.
about 8 years. Sherren said, "Victor took TCW’s layouts and fashion pages to a level I never could. A true artistic genius." Lots of friends have had the good fortune to own a "Victor Portrait" which I believe he charged around $25K for. Through the years, Victor's generosity extended to so many charitable causes. He would donate a sitting and,
Victor captured the energetic late photog Steve Starr perfectly.
invariably, the money raised would be astronomical for this coveted photo shoot. He raised millions for local charities. Philanthropic friends Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker, have matching Skrebneski photos. Andrea's was purchased at the PAWS Fur Ball's live auction in
Victor, winner of the Lucie award for 'Outstanding Achievement in Fashion', accompanied by model Carmen Dell'Orefice at 11th Annual Lucie Awards at Zankel Hall, Carnegie Hall on October 27, 2013 in NYC.
2014, shortly after they became engaged, and Steve's was purchased by his loving wife for their 1st anniversary in 2016. What a thrill for those lucky enough to have such a treasure! And even though he shot legends the world over, the images of people I know are the ones I relate to the most. Back in the day, I modeled with one of Victor's favorites, Kerry Harper Melchi. She of the long dark hair and lithe
Along with every other ad campaign, Victor made I. Magnin ads iconic. (Kerry Harper Melchi)
5'8" frame....along with Deborah Larsen, these two shot so many iconic ads with Victor--I. Magnin, Grosvenor Furs, Oscar de la Renta and so many others. They were/are flawless. I asked Kerry how she came to be a model for the genius. She said, "In 1977 I graduated from high school and went to Chicago to see if I could make it as a model. One day I had a job at his studio, for shoes only. During the shoot, he called in a makeup
Victor at Ralph Lauren for the book signing of "Ageing", my favorite book of his.
artist and after that he began booking me for fashion. Although he did book hair and makeup he liked us to be able to do our own as well. It was 'The School of Victor' so to speak. We knew hair, makeup, styling, posing, acting and becoming aware of what clients wanted. He taught us to be a perfectionist at our job. I became a sought after
Chuck by Victor for Red Hot Chicago 2013.
model because of what I learned at his studio. I was very grateful. The shoots were amazing, surrounded by very creative and talented people. Always fun music playing and great lunches brought in. We all just clicked and it was a unique atmosphere." Dori Wilson, Dori Wilson PR and a longtime friend and also a former model of
With Victor, Michael Kutza (and Chuck peeking) at the Landmarks Library Foundation Gala. Both Michael and Victor were both honored as Living Landmarks, of course.
Victor's, had this to say about her experiences with the maestro. "We were all so honored for the opportunity to work for Victor, that we always tried our very best. He didn't say much ... one could just tell from his eyes if he was happy or if something needed to be changed. He did makeup better than anyone. I recall Victor told me to show up on a Saturday for a shoot ... I did ... and thought nothing more about it. Of course, I did not tell my folks that I had done a nude (actually I had on bikini bottoms, but same were retouched out.) One day my Dad came home from work with a page from LOOK Magazine that his boss had given
Dear friend of Victor's, Joey Mondelli (La Scarola)
him. He was not pleased. I said "well, it's not me"... he responded, "well, why is your name there?" ...That's how I learned the photo had been picked up by a national magazine.....Yikes! He was THE BEST!" Another longtime friend Michael Kutza, founder of the Chicago International Film Festival, bonded with Victor over the Festival photo shoots, which are now iconic. Michael shared this about his friend, "What can I say about Victor? Victor was a very focused professional. I was friends with SKREBNESKI while a select others were friends with VICTOR! So for 55 years we worked on projects for Film Festival posters to help raise funds for the organization. I would bring him a whole slew of
Shelley MacArthur Farley by Victor.
movie stars and personalities to shoot that we then made into posters, with some being included in the book I was doing for the 40th Anniversary entitled MOVING PICTURES. From Francois Truffaut, Anne Nicole Smith, Oliver Stone, Shirley MacLaine, Sigourney Weaver Faye Dunaway so many fun people. They all loved meeting Skrebneski and being in a
Laura Barnett by Victor.
shoot. His private life was his private life. I have always respected that. There would be months and months where I would never hear from him and then, maybe 6 months later, I'd get a morning call, "When are we going to RL or La Scarola?" As you or may not know, he put RL on the map. It was a failed enterprise of Ralph's [Lauren]! Ralph asked Victor for advice and he said you need Steve Lombardo to reinvent the place and
Bonnie Spurlock by Victor.
manage it. He did and it worked. He loved RL. When I went to him in 1966 and asked him to make the Film Festival SEXY, it took him a few months but he came back with
Myra Reilly by Victor for Red Hot Chicago 2013.
some images that put the Chicago International Film Festival on the map!!! He could be completely impossible and stubborn, but I certainly understood being a fellow Sagittarius, as we are always RIGHT...and do it our way. One year, we Sagittarians got together for a drink at The Casino. The group included Victor, Donna La Pietra, Sugar Rautbord, Leslie Hindman, Beverly Blettner and me. VIC ( as I called him) is about to have a new chapter in his life. He will be rediscovered or discovered for the first time. His iconic photography will live on..." Leslie Hindman,
Carmen Dell' Orefice by Victor for Marshall Fields. Now hanging in the Museum of Contemporary Photography.
Hindman Auctions founder, remembered the unique creativity of Victor. She shared, "When Sandra Hindman and I had Antiques Chicago at Navy Pier in 2001, Victor agreed to be honored and to design a “celebrity booth” at
Playboy cover, Aug. 1959, shot by Victor.
the fair. I couldn’t wait to see what he would bring to the exhibit. He has the best taste of anyone, as you know, and the chicest home in the entire city other than Marilynn Alsdorf’s. He brought his own little paint container and told the painter that the booth needed to be exactly that color - it was off white - but he was SO specific about it that it had to be exactly that off white. Later, I stopped by to see his booth. The ONLY THING in the booth was one beautiful live naked man lying on a very simple table. Stark naked. That was it. Victor explained that that was ART and DESIGN at its best and that there was nothing else necessary whatsoever. So the naked man just sat in various poses in the off white booth - which was just under the stage in the rotunda at Navy Pier - for the duration of the show. Everyone LOVED IT. How
Museum of Contemporary Photography honors Victor with the Silver Camera Award (with Karen Irvine and Natasha Egan).
brilliant. It was fantastic!" (Me: I just wish I had been there to see THIS!) Another dear, dear friend of Victor's, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas had this to share. "Victor was the guy in my life who finished my sentences before I started them. Sometimes we never talked we just made faces, giggles and frowned. He unconditionally loved me and was always up for my cooking. He would even tell me to serve straight out of the pot. He could do no wrong, I could do no wrong. We were two interwoven spirits navigating the world's circus." Carmen Dell' Orefice, who is still modeling at age 88 (and who is my favorite of all time) worked with Skrebneski alot, creating museum quality images. She said, ”My heart will always vibrate whenever I think about Victor and our many photo shoots and times together. I'm grateful for the fact, as long as my memory works, that some of his energy is forever intertwined with mine. Comforting at this moment. He knew he had taken my all time favorite portrait from that era! Raising the biggest cup of turmeric tea right now, in his honor!“ (Below is the video that introduced Victor when he was awarded the prestigious Achievement in Fashion Award from the world-renowned Lucie Foundation in 2013. (Carmen accompanied him)
Carmen's dear friend, Peter Martino (jewelry designer to the stars and also for the rest of us) remembers Victor's inclusiveness. "I'll never forget how kind Victor was to me early in my career, coming to Chicago. He introduced me to so many of his social and fashion
Victor with Mamie Walton and Carmen.
friends. He was a Chicago icon who took an interest in “a friend of a friend” (ie: Carmen) and made a concerted effort to help me succeed. He came to many of the events I supported knowing it would help
La Scarola's Armando Vasquez 2014 Victor portrait.
promote my collections and give me recognition. That kind of kindness is rare and will never be forgotten. Victor and I attended quite a few parties and galas together as guests of Beverly Blettner and these bring back wonderful
Joey Mondelli and Victor, longtime friends. Joey was dear friends with Victor's mother Anna too. This photo hangs in La Scarola.
memories. He and Beverly were close friends who loved to bicker (actually fight! Lol! But always made up) In NYC, we saw each other through Carmen or at fashion events. He was always a very genuine, true and supportive friend. At times a bit testy- but what genius isn’t!? He will always be a beloved mentor and friend to me," Martino said.
Shortly before Victor passed away, he was interviewed by
Victor with Sylvia Perez.
Fox 32 Chicago's Sylvia Perez in one of the best interviews I've ever seen him do. I also believe this might have been the last request he granted. He and Sylvia hit if off so well, they had made plans to get together for dinner. In a move that showed just how brilliant an artist Victor was, he asked Sylvia to shoot the interview in black and white. Her editor popped the color in at the end. The results are spectacular as you will see below. Kudos and thank you dear Sylvia for capturing this beloved man so beautifully.
I could share so many more stories, since every encounter with Victor was so memorable, but I'll just leave you with these for now. And I'll close with these words from his friend Michael Kutza, "He will be rediscovered or discovered for the first time. His iconic photography will live on...a new beginning." Amen to that.
Another tragic loss to our community was Ernest Collins, a world renowned photographer, who was also a Chicago native. Ernest passed away on April 12 at age 67 in his home and studio on the Near West
A beauty by Ernest.
Side. He started his career as a makeup artist and hairstylist who styled The Emotions, the Pointer Sisters and so many more. In this wonderful obit in the Sun-Times by Maureen O'Donnell, it states "Ernest elevated black beauty in elite modeling circles in Chicago, Milan and Paris. As his reputation grew, his clients included model Tyra Banks, basketball legend Michael Jordan, singer Eddie Kendricks of the Temptations, actors Sheryl Lee Ralph and Gabrielle Union, model-actress Roshumba Williams and Oprah Winfrey." I was so lucky to have been photographed by him. As a matter of fact, his headshot of me is my all-time favorite. It's surprising that these two legendary photogs, he and Victor, would pass away so close to each other. They each had such a striking style of shooting glamour and, in many ways, were very similar. Each worked with a bare minimum of shots and had lighting that was deceptively simple and yet genius all at the same time. Ernest was a big bear of a guy...gruff on the outside with a marshmallow heart. I didn't know him as well as I'd wanted to. His last big shoot was for A Silver Lining Foundation's "Glitz & Glamour" gala on
A photo montage by Ernest for A Silver Lining Glitz & Glamour fashion show.
March 4. Produced and conceived by his longtime friend, fashion designer Mark Roscoe, the shoot consisted of all of the event's celebrity models being shot by Ernest in his studio. Afterwards, he photo-shopped them all together in a brilliant backdrop/collage for the show that
My favorite photo--by Ernest.
went from floor to ceiling and wall to wall. I was so happy he was in the audience to see the thunderous applause and appreciation for his work. I adored him in every way. We had plans for another shoot and more laughs, but sadly, that wasn't meant to be. His longtime friend and hairstylist Leigh Jones said, "He basically brought a lot of black models to the forefront. He saw in these young black women what some other white photographers didn't see." Ernest did campaigns for L'Oreal, Fashion Fair and Iman Cosmetics, Soft Sheen hair products, Alberto-Culver, and many more. A future memorial is planned. RIP dear Ernest.
Fashion designer Lauren Lein and a few of her masks.
Since we all have so much time on our hands, I love seeing all the creative ways people are surviving this crisis. Many of our beloved local designers and everyday people have
Fashion designer Shernett Swaby and her mask.
taken on the life-saving task of making masks. A pivot for sure and one that is greatly appreciated. I believe Peach Carr was the first to jump in to help followed by designers Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein,Shernett Swaby, Thierry Couture and even PR maven Betsy Shepherd, who is creating reversible Cubs masks on her brand new Etsy page. And I love and appreciate all the people out there who have shared on Instagram their support of said designers like Sherry Lea Fox, Mary Lasky, Bobbi Panter, Sherrill Bodine, Thomas O'Gorman and so many others. Thanks to all!
Other Chicago companies making a difference include BBJ Linens, which provides linen rentals for all occasions, has temporarily shifted its focus to making gowns and masks and shields for hospitals across the country. Lanie Hartman, BBJ Linens regional account exec, said, "I’m so, so proud of the help that we have given during this crazy time. Our talented sewers are so busy trying to get all of these PPE’s finished as quickly as possible. We’ve turned our talented staff and Atelier Custom Department into a Covid 19 fighting machine!"
And kudos also go out to Justin Jacobson, founder of Platinum Events, a premiere event planning company. He and his company have pivoted towards sanitation services through his newly formed Platinum Sanitation Services. They offer antibacterial and antiviral deep cleaning, steaming and more for warehouses, offices, homes and educational facilities. #HatTip
More love from Common Threads-- To address food insecurity issues Chicago residents are facing in the wake of COVID-19, Common Threads, Top Box
Chef Bill Kim, as always, pitching in to help.
Foods and local restaurateurs are teaming up to deliver family meals and grocery boxes for up to 500 residents per week. Distribution began the week of April 6 and will continue through at least early June thanks to support from Mariano’s, Nielsen-Massey Foundation and donations from Common Threads supporters. Common Threads identified participating chefs, including Chef Bill Kim of Urbanbelly, Chef Kevin Hickey of The Duck Inn, Chef Josh Katt of KitchFix, Chef Paul Hitalenko of Huegah Catering Company and Chef Tiffany Williams of Exquisite Catering to produce the family meal boxes. (To learn more and how you can support, click here!)
Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, the Chicago-based non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer and providing hope and support to those who are touched by it, has put a hold on individualized Bear Hug
American Idol stars Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo.
experiences due to COVID-19 social distancing. Children and families affected by pediatric cancer in 18 Midwest-area hospitals and at home received a giant virtual Bear Hug recently, through the efforts of celebrities, Chicago personalities and supporters. “We are thrilled to
SNL alum Nora Dunn
be blessed by the participation of these individuals who have come together to provide much needed hope at this time,” said Kathleen A. Casey, founder and CEO of BNPCF. Celebrities, Chicago personalities and supporters bidding well-wishes to Bear Necessities families in the Bear Hug video include power couple of American Idol fame Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young, who were set to headline the March premiere of the Chicago musical HIT HER WITH THE
Chicago Bear Patrick Scales.
SKATES; “Saturday Night Live” alum and film star Nora Dunn; Chicago Bears long snapper Patrick Scales; ABC7’s Roz Varon; CBS2’s Ryan Baker; FOX32’s Sylvia Perez; Brookfield Zoo and The Langham Chicago and yours truly. Bear Necessities has supported thousands of children and families through the unique Bear Hugs program over the years, providing customized experiences from events such as tickets to a concert or a Joffrey Ballet to family-friendly moments like brand-new backyard swing sets and fishing trips to Wisconsin. More than 384 Bear Hugs were provided in 2019 alone. For more information on how to support Bear Necessities and Bear Hugs programs for families in need, visit https://www.bearnecessities.org/donate/.
If you're not following Chef Art Smith on Insta (@thechefartsmith), you are truly missing out! A week
Art's executive producer and health coach, Chef Lucas Cancelier.
ago, he started doing 30 minute virtual cooking demos called "Healthy & Comfort Cooking with Chef Art Smith", executive produced by Lucas Cancelier (who is also a chef and kick-ass health coach (Insta @iamdapower). He helped Chef Art lose 50 lbs. in 6 weeks on a healthy eating, fitness plan!). Art's broadcasts are on his Insta story for 24 hours and then they go to IGTV. He said, "In these challenging times people need some happy! A little food and love makes people's day. Pray about better days to come and don't allow the news to become the narrative of your day." Amen to this Chef! In the first week, he showed viewers how to make his famous Hummingbird Cake and, in his most recent video, he showed us (with wit, charm and talent) how to fix un-fried chicken and his world famous fried chicken. Next week, Wednesday, April 22 (4-4:430 pm, EST) he plans on sharing his recipes for biscuits and sweet tea, among others! You have to tune in. He films from his home kitchen in Jasper, Florida, and you feel like you're spending time with a much loved relative. Thank you Art for bringin' the foodie love!
Mary Ann Rose and Bob Hope (Image appeared in Life Magazine)
Our very own Mary Ann Rose's life story should be made into a movie! We all know and love her as a premier event planner through her Tamar Productions but I bet you didn't know she was a star performer for many of Bob Hope's shows entertaining the troops and others! She said, "I toured with Bob Hope during the Viet Nam War and then worked for him for several years as an opening act throughout the US. In addition to the opening of the Notre Dame Center, you’d get a kick to know that I was working with him on one of his birthdays at the Playboy Club in Lake Geneva as well as when he appeared in Chicago for the National Houseware’s Show opening event at the Chicago Hilton and Towers. I was dating Heinz [Kern] at the time but had never told him I had another career other than as a meeting planner. I'd invited him to come see me and he brought some fellow co-workers from the Hyatt and they almost fell off their chairs. He had no clue that I could actually sing! In addition to my opening act, we did a comedy duet together to “
Mary Ann Rose and her Heinz Kern.
It’s Wonderful. “ I don’t think I’ll ever get over the look on Heinz’s face. That picture you have was also featured in Life Magazine’s tribute to Bob. When my daughter was old enough to go to school at Francis Parker, I decided that since I was never going to be a household name, it was time to look for other employment. A friend told me “you can’t stay too long at the party.” Thus the founding of Tamar Productions, Inc. which looking back, is the best thing I ever did, other than marrying Heinz." Mary Ann, I think you ARE a household name! Thanks for sharing this fun story! Once a star, always a star!
Chicago History Museum's In This Together initiative.
The Chicago History Museum announced a community-based initiative, “In This Together” to collect digital records that capture personal experiences during these uncertain times. Gary T. Johnson, Chicago History Museum president said, "In the midst of a global pandemic, it is imperative we turn to our friends, family and community for support and share stories of these uncharted moments in everyday life that will soon be vital pieces of history. We are all affected by this crisis in varying degrees, and personal materials such as diaries, journals, oral histories, images and recordings will help us tell stories of this unprecedented time in history. (Contributions can be made here.) Now more than ever, the Chicago History Museum is committed to sharing Chicago’s stories, and we are honored to launch “In This Together” to shine a light on our shared experiences during this critical time in our history. History is in the making, and we encourage all Chicagoans to share their stories and continue to lean on our community for support as we navigate through the unknown together.” “In This Together” invites those living in Chicago and its surrounding metropolitan area to contribute any digital records that document their experience and tell a story of their community during the COVID-19 pandemic. These could include digital journal entries, audio/video recordings, images or emails. Submissions can be made via smartphones, tablets or computers. Contributors will have the option to remain anonymous. To contribute a physical item, please use our donation inquiry form.
My favorite hair stylist, Charles Ifergan, is throwing it back! Take a look at the salon's new 20th anniversary tee-shirts! 100% of the profits will go toward its employee fund. I've been going to Charles since we were both in diapers. Back in the 80s, I appeared in ads for the salon shot by another iconic photographer Jack Perno (the image appears on the tee-shirt). We have a long history together and I love this fashionable idea to support the stylists. (Click here for info) Or check your own salon for ways you might be able to support them, too. Perhaps prepay for haircuts so they have money now to support the staff?
So many nonprofit events have been cancelled but several have plans in place for either an actual rescheduled event or to take the fun online virtually. Ronald McDonald House Charities, whose Un-Gala was cancelled on April 2, is now hosting the event online through May 2. Check it out here! The Digestive Health Gala has been
RMHC's Un-Gala is online now through May 2.
reset to Friday, June 5. Luminarts, a nonprofit that provides support to aspiring young artists, had to cancel its signature event that was originally scheduled for April 18th. It will now take place sometime in the fall and will be held at the Union League Club and include performances by Luminarts Fellows and a sit-down dinner. Lookingglass Theatre has developed a whole host of free digital offerings presented by Lookingglass Ensemble Members and Artistic Associates, including a new weekly podcast, a virtual yoga class, and exclusive performances (click here). Designs for Dignity, a nonprofit that supports organizations serving adults and children dealing with homelessness, abuse, mental health issues and more, announced a new fundraising initiative to honor its 20th anniversary. The $20 for 20 Challenge will help fundraise for pro-bono design services for charitable organizations. (For more info, click here) Chicago Zoological Society’s largest annual fund-raising gala, the Whirl benefiting Brookfield Zoo, is going virtual too. This year’s event, Rain Forests of the Virtu-Whirl, which is presented by the Society’s Women’s Board and Board of Trustees, will consist of an online auction. Beginning Thursday, April 23, at 5:00 p.m. and continuing through Saturday, April 25, at 9:00 p.m., the public can bid on a variety of fabulous auction items or even contribute with a monetary donation as in a paddle raise. (Details and register here!)
I love seeing all of the funny memes, gifs and jokes out there. It seems this virus has brought out a sense of humor I didn't realize we had. As they say, laughter is the best medicine, and we sure do need a lot of this now. I don't know how much longer this will last but I do know that we will all get through it together. I'm not a big phone person but I have been calling friends more and more. The sound of their voices is comforting and makes me feel connected. I so miss not being out and covering my nonprofit events but I know they will return in one form or another and, hopefully, I will be there to cheer them on. And, I never miss the 8 pm balcony call to cheer on our frontline healthcare workers....Stay safe out there!
In closing, my friend/designer/art curator Daniel Kinkade, shared these comments on his Facebook page. I couldn't have said it better nor agree more: "Can we STOP complaining and whining about being in lockdown? We are BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE to live where we have access to WIFI, Netflix, Hulu, cable, Facetime, ZOOM, social media, air conditioning, heat, food, food delivery, grocery pickup, grocery delivery, etc. As Americans we don't have to worry about what over 50% of the rest of the world worries about on a DAILY basis such as clean water and food to eat. If you're not in a third world country stuck in a one room hut in a slum in 105 degree heat with 10 other immediate family members and none of the above mentioned pleasures we take for granted every day, then you sound ridiculous moaning and groaning about a few weeks in which we have to self-reflect, meditate, pray, read, organize, learn a new language, grow internally and perhaps cherish our loved ones even more. Let's step back and be thankful that we are ALIVE. This will pass." Thank you Daniel.
Love, as always,
Candace
P.S. Funniest bird video ever, watch that lil' claw....
As we all know, the world as we know it has been turned upside down and inside out with this pandemic. People are scrambling to rethink the way they live and how they might have to live going forward. Nothing could've prepared us for this, not the German measles, not H1N1, not SARS, not even Ebola. It's ability to mutate is the worrisome part. I worry about everyone, from the nonprofits to the restaurants and to all those who support them...our service workers in essential jobs who put their lives at risk every day...and on and on and on. It affects every single part of human life. All of my dreams are virus-based nightmares. Now, more than ever, we need to hear good news, light-hearted stories, jokes, virtual hugs and kisses and a compassion like we've never seen before. All over the world, we see this happening. From the Italian balcony singers to right here in Chicago where the Bon Jovi song, "Living on a Prayer" could be heard from our own buildings, people are stepping up and not giving up. It's the most heartening thing I've ever seen. Neighbors checking on neighbors, animal lovers taking in more fosters so the shelters aren't overloaded, GoFundMe pages for hospitality workers and others....everyone is putting their creative juices to work and, in my mind, it's definitely working. Health-wise, a positive attitude can save lives and that's what we're seeing now. I quizzed some of my friends in the nonprofit, restaurant and art worlds to see how they're faring and what they want us to know....here's a few of their comments, along with other uplifting news and updates:
Paula Fasseas with Alexis Fasseas and PAWS dog Loretta.
I've been heartened to hear that a lot of people are stepping up at the animal shelters to be fosters and volunteers. I spoke to Paula Fasseas, the founder of PAWS Chicago, the largest No-Kill shelter in the Midwest and this is what she had to say: 1) How is PAWS coping during the crisis?
PAWS Animal Magnetism party 2019
We are well versed in disease management - we do it every day in our shelter environment! We have taken many measures to ensure that we are able to meet the needs of all the animals in our care, while keeping the public, staff, and volunteers as safe as possible. We have placed
Susanna Homan and Gus, her PAWS rescue, at PAWS Animal Magnetism party 2019
hundreds of animals in foster and adoptive homes thanks to the incredible response from our community. We just launched a virtual adoption process, allowing prospective adopters to adopt online while sheltering in place. You can find your animal, complete your paperwork, meet with an adoption counselor and do it all from the comfort of your living room. We will make every effort for approved adopters to spend time with their dog or cat in advance of the adoption. A two-week foster-to-adopt period will apply to all virtual adoptions to make sure it’s the right fit for all. You can see all of our changes to operations here. And here’s a link to our blog which we try to update daily: 2) What would you like the public to know? It’s times like these that we see the best in our community and our friends. From the beginning of this
PAWS Animal Magnetism 2019 --pretty partygoer.
COVID-19 crisis, all of us at PAWS have been humbled by the outpouring of care and concern for the animals. We have continued our operations during this time as we remain committed to the animals. The community can continue to support us
Treasured PAWS volunteers and rescue dogs.
through donations, adoptions, volunteering, and fostering. 3) Any rescheduled plans for events, etc.? Several of our locations have temporarily closed, or operating at a limited capacity. Our Training Center classes are temporarily postponed and our Clinic is temporarily closed to the public. The Animal Magnetism gala was cancelled and we are postponing our PAWS 5K that was scheduled for
Longtime PAWS supporter Melissa Canning (center) and friends at Animal Magnetism Party 2019.
May 31 to sometime later this fall. We are evaluating all of our upcoming events and will communicate future changes on our website. 4) What services are you
PAWS Animal Magnetism Party 2019 with Philip Emigh, Bruce Haas, Angie DeMars and Susanna Homan.
providing to the community? Virtual Adoptions : We’ve launched a virtual adoption process, allowing prospective adopters to adopt online while sheltering in place. Interested adopters fill out a quick form on our website and our Adoption team will reach out to them directly if they are a match with an available animal. Now is great time to adopt or foster, especially as we are spending more time at home. Pets are scientifically proven to improve health. Benefits include but are not limited to: better sleep, lower anxiety, decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol levels, decreased triglyceride levels, lower heart rate, decreased feelings of loneliness, increased social support, and decreased stress levels. Crisis Care Foster: During these challenging times, PAWS Chicago is here to support our community. Our COVID-19 Crisis Care Foster Initiative is available to owners who are temporarily unable to care for their pets, because they have been directly affected by COVID-19, and for those experiencing financial hardships. Our objective is to place all crisis care pets in a loving, temporary foster home. We are able to offer care for 60 days, which may be able to be extended if necessary. Please fill out the COVID-19 Crisis Care Foster Initiative Form if you are in need of crisis care. Volunteer
Beverly Laser Treatment before going into foster.
Opportunities: We have temporarily discontinued our regularly scheduled volunteer orientations. Interested volunteers can sign up on our website to be added to the Emergency Volunteer roster. Emergency Volunteers are heroes for the animals in times of greatest uncertainty. In the event we have special need of volunteers, we will reach out for support and assistance at our Medical and Adoption Centers. Once we resume regular new-volunteer
Just for fun!
orientations, we will help these volunteers join our ongoing volunteer team. 5) And, most importantly, what do you need? How can your supporters help? So many individuals, families, businesses and charities are facing economic difficulties right now. PAWS Chicago and our homeless animals are no exception. PAWS Chicago does not receive government
Marco Ramirez with Hyannis at Animal Magnetism 2019.
funding and is 100% reliant on the support of our community. We are asking for donations to support our life-saving work. We know this is going to be a very difficult year for everyone, but we’re confident that our wonderful community of friends and supporters will provide resources PAWS Chicago will needs to continue to be there for the animals in need. We have transformed animal welfare in Chicago and beyond, and we will continue to be on the front lines and be the last chance for the animals who depend on us. (Photos by Jim Svehla)
Brenda Langstraat (CPLF president) and Bob Wislow (CPLF board chair) at Night in the Stacks 2019.
The Chicago Public Library Foundation is offering a huge variety of online services: books, movies, cultural conversations, job resources and even a Digital Care Package that includes fun activities for kids, recipes, online book suggestions and info about its virtual "non-event" planned for Tuesday, April 3. CPLF president Brenda Langstraat answered a few questions. How Is your nonprofit coping during crisis? As we all navigate this ever-shifting landscape, the mission and the work of the Library Foundation continue ─ with compassion, empathy, and determination to empower every Chicagoan by connecting them with the resources they need. To do our part in containing COVID-19, the Library Foundation team has been practicing social distancing. We have been working from home since March 13. We stay connected in our home offices through Microsoft Teams and Zoom meetings. We have daily “heart and head” check-ins to support one another professionally and personally. What would you like the
Gordon and Ray Fleming at Night in the Stacks 2019.
public to know? There are a lot of uncertainties that we are facing as a community. One certainty is that ─ on the other side of this crisis ─ Chicago Public Library services and programs will be more essential than ever in bringing our community together to connect, share, and learn. We also know that our work with the Library will be shaped by this time, leading to new ideas and enhanced vision for ourselves, for each other, and for our city. Any rescheduled plans for events? As we come together as a city to protect each other and manage COVID-19, we are postponing Night in the Stacks on April 3 at Harold Washington Library Center. We plan to reschedule for a date this summer. Social distancing doesn’t mean we should stop connecting. In fact, we need to connect now and check-in with each other so we can stay sane. As we work through sheltering in place, we
Cute partygoers at Night in the Stacks 2019.
want to connect with all library lovers. We are inviting all Chicagoans to participate in a virtual gathering via social media on April 3 between 8-9pm. We have uploaded a digital care package to our website with information on how to participate, links to fun resources, and tips for a cozy night in. What services are you providing?
Adiat and Iya Baker at Night in the Stacks 2019.
The Library Foundation is working closely together with Chicago Public Library to support families and communities during this time. We’ll have more details as the plan take shape over the following days. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore the Library’s extensive online resources, including e-books, audiobooks,
Brenda Langstraat (CPLF president, 2nd from R) and friends.
mobile applications to stream TV, music, and movies. Don’t have a Library card yet? You can apply for an eCard. For families with kids of all ages at home, Chicago Public Library offers plenty of resources to keep everyone
learning! Resources for children include games and homework help and for discerning teens there are plenty of blogs and access to online content. How can supporters help? Libraries are essential community hubs where we come together to access information and connect to the world around us. We are in unchartered waters and with libraries closed, one thing we can do is to foster that sense of community that exists all around us. We encourage everyone to look out for one
another and stay connected to their communities whether that be your block, your book club, your playgroups, your network of friends. Along with our friends and donor communities, we are committed to our mission of powering our Library and empowering every Chicagoan. We are keeping everyone updated with the latest on library resources and COVID-19 essential information via our website and social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn)." (Photos by Hilary Higgins)
Ashley Wheater MBE, The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director, shared his thoughts on how The Joffrey Ballet is handling this crisis, what their plans are for the community and how you can help. How is the Joffrey coping during the crisis? In these unprecedented times, we made the difficult decisions to temporarily closeJoffrey Tower, cancel our Academy and Community Engagement classes, as well as our Center Stage celebration, and postpone our upcoming performances of Don
Joffrey Artist Jeraldine Mendoza and ensemble. "The Times Are Racing," Justin Peck’s piece speaks to the power of people coming together to support each other in difficult times. (Photo by Cheryl Mann)
Quixote at the Auditorium Theatre. Our administrative staff is practicing social distancing and taking advantage of remote work options. We are optimistic. With crisis also comes strength and opportunity, and opportunity is what the Joffrey knows best. The determination and positivity of the Joffrey staff during this time has been truly inspiring. What would you like the public to know? The Joffrey's message has always been one of hope. Nowhere is hope more evident than the arts. As our daily lives and routines pause, we want to do our part to keep the world spinning. We look to the arts for surprise and joy. There is lots of that to go around, in the Joffrey community and far beyond. Any rescheduled plans for events,
Joffrey artistic director Ashley Wheater (2nd from R) with dancers ad UNGala 2019. (Photo by Yvette Dostatni)
productions, performances? Out of an abundance of caution and safety, we have decided to cancel our previously postponed Winning Works performances and our Center Stage performance and event. This was not an easy decision, but the health of our staff, artists, and patrons is paramount. We are also currently working to identify alternative performance dates for Don Quixote at the Auditorium Theatre. What services are you offering for the community? Over the next
Performer Gabriel Bowman at Joffrey UNGala 2019.
few weeks, we will be sharing stories on our website and social media channels from the Joffrey family to keep life uninterrupted. We will introduce you to the people who bring their talent to the Joffrey and stage each day. We are also investigating posting weekly videos of past performances to keep our audiences engaged. This is our campaign to keep the hope in our lives strong and unwavering. We will get through this together. Because in the end art will prevail. It always does. And, most importantly, what do you need? How can your supporters help? Like many organizations, the Joffrey is feeling the financial impact of closing its doors. The elimination of Center
Baton performers Maya Douglas, Mimi Marks and Chilli Pepper at the Joffrey UNGala 2019. (Photo by Yvette Dostatni).
Stage (our largest annual fundraiser), the cancellation of Winning Works, and the fragile status of Don Quixote make this a particularly challenging time. With a crisis at hand the Joffrey needs your support now more than ever. We ask you to strongly consider converting your ticket purchases for Winning Works and our Center Stage celebration to a fully tax-deductible donation to The Joffrey Ballet. Doing so will help us minimize our losses and keep us moving forward. (To make a monetary donation, please visit Joffrey.org/donate)
John Peller (L, AFC pres) at the 30th Anniversary AIDS Foundation Milestone Gala on Saturday, May 16, 2015
AIDS Foundation Chicago president/CEO John Peller shared info about how his organization is staying positive while continuing to help within the communities. "Here at AFC, we had to quickly respond to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak to keep everyone healthy and safe. Nearly all staff are working remotely, and our services continue uninterrupted.To help our community, we have
Johnny Ford and David Murga at the 30th Anniversary AIDS Foundation Milestone Gala, 2015
Mable Buckner and Joyce Stanley at the 30th Anniversary AIDS Foundation Milestone Gala, 2015
to identify unmet needs that our clients are experiencing, such as:Additional minutes on their phones to make lifesaving medical appointments; Ride-sharing to get to their doctor’s appointments, the grocery store or pharmacy; Medical and sanitizing supplies; Food and
Tim Russell, Anthony Guerrero , Mari Martinez, Percy Fleming and Brian Porcello at AFC 30th anniversary milestone gala 2015.
food deliveries. While this is an unbelievably tough time, remember
Bryan and Julie Barrish at AIDS Foundation's 30th anniversary milestone gala 2015.
that we have done this before: We responded to the AIDS epidemic when AFC was founded 35 years ago. Working in the midst of an epidemic is in our DNA. We are health equity advocates to our core — and we will fight for our community’s well-being! Click here to make amonetary donation todayto support its services and fill in gaps as they identify them."
The cast of Porchlight Music Theatre’s Sophisticated Ladies.
One of my favorite theatre groups is Porchlight Music Theatre. Founded in 1995 by Jill Moore, the company came to symbolize creativity, comfort and community and for nearly 25 years, its light has been shining brightly! Here's how they're coping: Porchlight Music Theatre, Chicago’s center for music theatre, had to immediately assess all the activities and productions that were scheduled this spring and make some very difficult decisions. Sadly, we had to cancel the Chicago premiere of Disney’s Freaky Friday and postpone several events: our 25th
Porchlight Music Theatre 25th Anniversary Committee Chairs: Bill Kurtis, Donna La Pietra, Deann and Rick Bayless (ICONS Gala 2019)
Anniversary ICONS Gala honoring Broadway legend Joel Grey, in person, and the inspiring contributions of Arlen and Elaine Cohen Rubin; the next edition of our series introducing new talent to our audience, New Faces Sing Broadway 1987, and all of our young people’s programming. However, we have announced our 2020 - 2021 season that includes Legally Blonde, Titanic and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, among many other productions. Currently, we are monitoring the situation, day by day, really hour by hour, and we are
Hollis Resnick and Billy Rude in Porchlight Music Theatre’s Sunset Boulevard.
beginning the work of launching our 26th season and sharing all of what people love about our productions. They are intimate—we are at the Ruth Page Center in the Gold Coast for most productions and this theatre has just over 200 seats. Our last production, the Duke Ellington revue Sophisticated Ladies, performed to universal raves and sold out houses. Our audiences, especially during these times, have been letting us know via social media and emails that they can’t wait for Porchlight to return to the spotlight! It is definitely a bright spot in all of the current darkness that our supporters and our Board of Directors have been so supportive! Music theatre is one of America’s own art forms. Music has been part of theatre since ancient times, however, the music theater we know and love today was uniquely born in our country. The stories told lift spirits, confront issues and expand the imagination. Our hope is to come out of the current situation ready to share new experiences and create new memories. To use a phrase from one of the best
E. Faye Butler in Porchlight Music Theatre’s Gypsy.
loved musicals, “Kiss today goodbye, and point me toward tomorrow!” 2) What would you like the public to know? Porchlight, for 25 years, has been producing award-winning music theatre, celebrating this uniquely American art form and engaging our under-resourced communities to reach Chicago youth with exposure to, and appreciation for, music, theatre, dance and so much more. Because of the cancellation of two of our major spring events, we are very much asking everyone, if they are able, to support Porchlight with a donation. If you know a child aged 7-17 years old who might be
Bill Marovitz, Asia Gajderowicz, Julian Frazin and Porchlight Music Theatre board member Rhona Frazin at Porchlight's ICONS Gala, 2015.
interested in Musical Theatre Summer Camp, those are still on sale and slated to meet at the state-of-the-art DePaul School of Music. Every penny is more valuable than you can imagine and needed at this time. Also, purchasing a subscription, single tickets, and flexible gift certificates to our season starting in fall 2020 is a great investment as well as a vote of confidence in Porchlight as an essential artistic leader in the community. 3) Any rescheduled plans for events, productions, performances? We are working with the Ritz-Carlton Chicago and Mr. Grey to see what dates work for them to hold our ICONS Gala. We encourage all of you to follow us on social media for any updates and we hope you may join us for one of our upcoming events, as soon as they are announced! 4)
Porchlight Music Theatre Executive Director Jeannie Lukow, 2018 Luminary Award Recipient Jim Jensen and 2019 Luminary Award Recipient Jean Klingenstein and Porchlight Music Theatre Artistic Director Michael Weber at the ICONS Gala 2019.
What services are you providing? During this period, we hope to engage all with memories of past events and previews of what is to come as well as some fun original online content that we are creating. Porchlight values the experiences we are sharing and showcasing the skills and talents of all those we partner with — organizations, performers, audiences and others. We have gift certificates and season subscriptions for sale and we are adding to our messaging every day. Our Education Department is also working with students at home via study guides and online sources. We want to engage, educate and entertain those who are social distancing. Letting them know we will return and that we value them as a part of the Porchlight family! 5) And, most importantly, what do you need? How can your supporters help? There are a variety of ways, people may support Porchlight Music Theatre at this time - they can subscribe to our new 2020-21 season here, make a donation here and buy a gift certificate that is applicable on performances, classes and our summer camp here . And if one really feels they have the background and resources, they may ask about joining our Board of Directors. If interested, please reach out to Lisa Torgerson, our director of development, at [email protected].
One of our favorites, Gibsons Restaurant Group, has been "very humbled by the outpouring of support." This was so good to hear. Liz Lombardo Stark, the Director of Marketing and PR for Gibsons Restaurant Group, answered a few questions. 1) How is your restaurant coping during the crisis? Our focus is on our employees right now. We are relying on our core values,
Gibson's Italia
especially Family, which leads our decisions and activity around how we will support our employees through this crisis. We are distributing family meals to all employees (for pick up) twice a day in our restaurants. Employees can order meals for themselves and their families, and there is no charge for, or limits on any meals. All employees have been paid through March and all benefits remain active for all employees enrolled. 2) What would you like the public to know? Gibsons is here for you! We're open for carry-out and delivery every day from 11am-9pm. Our steaks are available cooked and vacuum-packed to cook at home, all at approximately 50% off normal pricing. We also have wine and beer available for carry-out orders at 50% off of beverage menu pricing. And new to our menus - family-style meals. The meals are portioned to feed 4 and feature choices among main courses, sides and desserts that include Gibsons favorites, like the 48 oz porterhouse steak, double baked potato, creamed spinach and carrot cake (desserts are sliced as usual - one slice feeds 4-6
That legendary wall--Gibson's Rush Street.
people). Four salads and choice of dressing are also included.3) Any tips on how to survive during this time if you're a restaurant For us, it has been helpful
Gibson's Kathy Piccone and Steve Lombardo.
to modify and streamline our regular menu a bit to meet the needs of customers during this challenging time. For example, in addition to cooked steaks, we now sell vacuum-packed steaks to cook at home. Overall, we're focused on committing every available resource to taking care of our employees and our customers. 4) What services are you providing? All Gibsons Restaurant Group locations - Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse (Chicago, Rosemont, Oak Brook), Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House (Chicago and Naperville), Gibsons Italia, LUXBAR and Quartino - offer delivery via DoorDash and Caviar, as well as carryout. As always, gift certificates are available on our
Lux Bar
website, along with our line of Gibsons seasoning salts. 5) And, most importantly, what do you need? How can your supporters help? We are so
Steaks are 50% off normal pricing at Gibson's!
humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support we continue to receive from our Gibsons customers in the form of carry-out and delivery orders, gift card purchases for future use, engaging with us on social media and signing up for our newsletter (at the bottom of our homepage) to stay in the loop. Every little bit helps us take care of our staff and remain open to do what we love to do. In addition, please try to support your other favorite restaurants by ordering delivery/takeout, purchasing gift cards, and donating to employee relief funds. All of Chicago restaurants need your help right now!"
Kathleen Casey, BN founder, with Bear Hug receipients.
Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a Chicago based national nonprofit dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer and providing hope and support to those who are touched by it. Founder Kathleen Casey shared some info.
Boots & Bling cuties, Bear Necessities Bear Tie Ball 2020.
What would you like the public to know? Families dealing with cancer are no stranger to what we are all going through. Due to
With Dr. Joaquin and Jennifer Brieva and Chuck at Bear Tie Ball 2020.
compromised immune systems our kids must be quarantined during most of their treatment leaving them isolated as we are all struggling with now. And now with a Pandemic these children are so in danger of catching COVID-19. What do you need? How can your supporters help? We are experiencing high demand for the
Todd Hatoff, Paul Iacono, Donna Rotunno and Kirk Williams at the 25th anniversary of the Bear Tie Ball 2018.
“Necessities” for our families so grocery gift cards, gas gift cards are greatly needed. Since we can’t provide experiential Bear Hugs right now, we are purchasing items such as electronics and other things that occupy these children at
home or in the hospital so we are getting many requests for purchased Bear Hugs so Amazon and Target are always needed to bring hope to these kids. (To donate or learn more, click here) Kathleen shared some happy news about volunteer Amy LeMay, who works with BN families facilitating Bear Hugs. Her wedding was planned for March 28, so obviously, it had to be postponed. However, love conquers all and she and her fiancee/now husband Kyle Ruch married, with only 10 people present, at Holy Name Cathedral. See sweet video below by Windy City Productions:
Kerry Wood with kids from the Wood Family Foundation Pitch In Program.
TheWood Family Foundation, that provides mentoring for kids in under-served neighborhoods, are still figuring out ways to help. Through their Pitch In Program, Kerry
Lisa Fielding (WBBM NewsRadio 780) pitching in at Woody's Winter Warm-up 2019.
and Sarah Wood want you to know their latest efforts include: "At-home deliveries of non-perishable groceries, cleaning supplies, and other critical household goods; Connecting virtually to ensure our students and their families have everything
Do-gooders Kerry and Sarah Wood.
they need to stay healthy, safe, and continue learning during this time; Equipping students with tablets to bolster access to e-learning opportunities; Sharing critical information from CPS and the CDC with families, including at-home activities, fun project ideas, and resources; Beginning to develop a virtual Pitch In curriculum that will allow us to continue supporting the social-emotional skill-building so critical to students in the 4th-8th grades. Pitch In Mentors are also stepping up by picking up their smart phones to record homemade videos of support for our students and families. Their friend and partner Simon from Media House, will then edit the clips into a Pitch In Family compilation movie that will share words of support and connection, messages of love, and ideas for at-home activities with all Pitch In students." (To find out more and how you can help, click here).
A tip of the hat to the Big Shoulders Fund that recently announced a $3 million fundraising campaign in support of the students, families, teachers and administrators in its network of schools. The Big Shoulders Fund COVID-19 Emergency Fund was established two weeks ago and has already raised nearly $300,000 from more than 80 donors. This Emergency
Big Shoulders Fund Dinner 2018 Josh Hale (BSF pres/CEO), Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Jim O'Connor and John Canning. (Photo by Jim Svehla)
Fund will help provide critical resources for the 20,000 children in the Big Shoulders Fund network, including covering the cost of devices and supporting e-learning programs, providing scholarships and financial aid for families struggling to pay tuition and food outreach for the students, families, and the communities where Big Shoulders Fund schools exist. “The
Big Shoulders Fund Gala 2018 supporters Mary Pat Burns and Sheila O'Grady (Photo by Jim Svehla).
number of calls and emails we have received at Big Shoulders Fund offering help with food, school materials, and emergency scholarships for those truly living on the margins is uplifting. The way our principals work to find creative ways to bolster community and learning to their students and families is an inspiration. Fear is not winning. Our core American value of helping those in need is alive and well. It seems President Franklin Roosevelt’s call to action – ‘the only thing we have to fear, is fear itself!’ – continues to move us today,” said Josh Hale, pres/CEO Big Shoulders Fund. For more information and to contribute to the Big Shoulders Fund, click here: COVID-19 Emergency Fund.
Heather Owens is a founder/executive director of One Tail at a Time, an animal rescue that focuses on dogs and young kittens. She said, ""If you'd told me last Monday that rescue dogs would be the silver lining during the COVID-19 pandemic, I'm not sure I would have believed you. In fact, at that time I was preparing to shut down
Heather Owen, ED OTAT (Photo by Jeremy Lawson)
operations. But in the past eleven days, something incredible has happened. We have received well over five hundred new foster applications, about five times as many adoption applications as normal, and everyone on our team adjusted to the new standards of social distancing and staying safe. Because of that, we have welcomed 107 dogs and 6 cats into our program since last Monday.
Christina Brown, Randall Fassbinder with Cali at Houndstooth Ball 2019.
We were able to shut down all our facilities and are now being sustained entirely by 207 selfless foster homes, and we're not slowing down. We are proud that the comfort of rescue pets can be the silver lining right now. Rescue pets are having a moment, and it's proof that we will get through this together." Heather also answered a few questions about the nonprofit: 1) How is OTAT coping during the crisis? We are lucky that the state has allowed us to keep operating. Because so many people are working from home we have seen a surge in foster homes and adopters, which has allowed us to save so many animals in
OTAT adoptable dog.
need. We have had to adjust and write policies to keep
OTAT adoptable dogs resting with an angel foster.
everyone safe, but our volunteers, fosters, and staff have really come through to make the transition smooth. 2) What would you like the public to know? We are open for adoptions! We are doing virtual meet and greets and then handing off leashes for a foster to adopt. If it's a match, the adopter can finalize and pay through a link. We would love to get the word out that we're looking for more
Scout is waiting for his forever home.
adopters for big dogs! 3) Any rescheduled plans? Unfortunately our veterinary clinic grand opening has
Rigby is available for adoption and was found abandoned with a broken leg and open sores. His leg will require an amputation that will be covered by OTAT. He will make a very cute "tripod" for adopters who aren't afraid to take on a special needs dog.
been delayed. We believe we'll be able to get in soon, but some of our major equipment has been delayed which means we won't be able to do surgeries and x-rays until things go back to normal. We are disappointed, but our medical team is getting really creative and doing an incredible job. 4) What services are you providing? We are continuing to intake animals and provide adoptions. 5) And, most importantly, what do you need? How can your supporters help? Monetary donations for the increase in our intake: onetail.org/donate and adopters for big dogs! We are still accepting foster homes, however we received so many offers there is currently a wait list.
Founders Terry Carrie Meghie with Kye Martin Brandon Hardesty
Over 60 Jackson Chance Foundationand Rush University Children’s Hospital supporters celebrated a partnership to help Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Carrie Meghie, Mary Sullivan Stephanie Krol.
families on March 3. Jackson Chance Foundation’s NICU Transportation Program provides complimentary parking passes to every family with a premature or critically ill baby in the NICU. Now, no family with a baby in their NICU will have to pay for parking! The
Dr. Jean Silvestri, Kim Carmignani and Carrie Meghie.
hospital’s NICU Unit Director Kim Carmignani and JCF founder Carrie Meghie led the crowd in a toast! The expansion will add another 72 beds totaling 252 beds in JCF’s NICU Transportation Program. The Foundation works directly with parking garages to purchase passes in bulk that are otherwise not available to the public. A $300 donation provides one monthly parking pass that could save a family more than $1,000/month. (To donate or for more info, click here!)
Tom Kehoe, the go-to expert on event planning and design.
With all of our fun events being cancelled, I turned to an expert (and friend) for his advice. Tom Kehoe has been an industry insider since he was in diapers and is the mastermind behind the uber-successful Kehoe Designs, The Geraghty, Black Oak Productions and Floral Exhibits. He knows everything there is to know about the event industry and these are some valuable
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital Gala at The Geraghty.
tips he shared on how to postpone an event and make the next one even more exciting! (YOU are welcome!) 1) Be Informed - Review vendor contracts to ensure you understand policies on rescheduling. And then reach out to vendors to secure a new date that works for everyone – you might think of hosting a virtual meeting in order to reach consensus quicker. 2) Inform - Once you’ve settled on a new date, be sure to let guests know right away about all updates, so they can plan accordingly. 3) Get Creative - If you are locked into a contract, or decide you’d like to continue to support the vendor, get creative. In lieu
Beautiful UNICEF Gala at The Geraghty.
of a sit-down dinner, see if the caterer will shift to delivering boxed dinners or treats – either to your original guest list, senior centers, or frontline medical staff/volunteers. 4) Take Care - Stay informed and prioritize the health of you, your guests and vendors. It takes a village to pull off a well-orchestrated wedding so it’s important to keep everyone’s wellbeing in mind. 5) Hire a Pro - If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring an event planner to help manage the workload. And if you’re already working with one, rely on them for additional counsel while you look to shift gears. 6) Safety Net - Allocate 10%-15% of your budget for unexpected challenges
Chicago Children's Choir Gala at The Geraghty.
along the way. 7) Don’t Panic - Don’t panic about the unknown and uncontrollable. Recalibrate with updated information in hand, and challenge yourself to envision an even better experience for your guests. 8) Up the Ante – Amp up the tech production for a fully immersive, next level guest experience. Folks have been
Weizmann Institute Gala at The Geraghty.
confined – this is your chance to transport them to a unique place and time! 9) Go Green – After sheltered in place, folks will long for a sense of the outdoors. Incorporate lush greenery to add a verdant and vivacious layer to your event’s ambience. 10) Virtual Success – If postponing your event isn’t an option, consider a custom, virtual experience. Enlist a tech company to work with your planner and décor company to produce a creative and compelling event that delivers on your original goals, and allows for an even greater audience to participate in." Thanks, with love, Tom!
Congrats to former Chicago Bear and world-class entrepreneur, Israel "Izzy" Idonije. According to this article in Crains, Izzy had the foresight to buy quite a unique company, Blessed Communion, a business that sells sealed, pre-filled communion cups. For the past 11 years, he has been pushing churches worldwide to become more sanitary and now his company is producing over 650,000 cups a day, filling orders virtually from all over the world, including the U.S., Europe, China and Africa. “We can barely keep up
Blessed Communion cups.
with all the orders we’re getting,” said Idonije, who took over Blessed Communion in 2009 against the recommendation of his financial advisers. “This is our Super Bowl.” The cups are filled with red or white grape juice and include an unleavened bread wafer. A pack of 100 costs $24.97. “Nobody should be getting sick because you want to pray or safely practice your beliefs,” he said. Amen to that!
Congrats to York Furrier (Kathy and John Rezny) on its 89th anniversary! Since 1931, Chicagoland's favorite
John and Kathy Rezny.
furrier has been serving the community, not only with high quality, chic products, but also with its many philanthropic endeavors through a variety of charities. The family-owned and operated business was started by Kathy's grandfather Joseph R. Wagner. Congrats, with love, Kathy and John! (York Furrier, 107 N. York St., Elmhurst, IL) Nearly 100 years of helping people make lasting memories!
Happy news! We were so happy to hear that Gene & Georgetti's (500 N. Franklin, Chicago) has reopened after a fire in October. This institution has been around since 1941 so it's loss in the community was palpable. They opened Monday for curbside pickup and delivery. Click here to order! And this from co-owner Michelle
The Gene & Georgetti family hope to see YOU!
Durpetti, "While this is not the opening we imagined, Gene & Georgetti Chicago is now open for delivery and take out. We hope that opening this location will provide a moment of joy for our beloved customers and our team,
G&G owners Michelle, Marion and Tony Durpetti with the late/great Dominic DiFrisco.
allowing G & G Chicago to provide delicious meals to those who have found comfort and love in our food since 1941. Our building was built from wood scrap found after the Chicago fire. Gene opened this restaurant with Georgetti at a time of war. We have been closed for six months due to our own fire - and here we are. Hoping to show our love to Chicago the only way we know how - from our kitchen, to all of you."
In the wake of the intensifying pandemic, many of the world’s most venerable art institutions have been forced to temporarily shut their doors. Luckily, that doesn’t mean that we’ve lost access to the countless treasures housed by these great museums. Thanks to the extensive Google Arts & Culture project, more than 2,500 spaces from around the world are accessible online, and many offer virtual tours of their holdings. Here are 14 favorites. (They include MoMA, Musee d'Orsay, J. Paul Getty Museum, Art Institute Chicago and so many more). Click here for your armchair tours!
Chefs Sebastien Canonne, M.O.F. and Jacquy Pfeiffer have launched the result of three years of hard work with a new revolutionary online baking, pastry and cake decorating platform called The Butter Book. It's the most comprehensive online pastry, baking and cake decorating educational experience to date and you can view it for free! In an effort of solidarity and in the spirit of sharing education in this difficult time, they made this site available to all, worldwide, for free and with no-strings-attached for 60 days with a robust library of 150+ instructional recipe lessons and 30+ courses, with new releases weekly. Chef Jacquy said, "We think it will help families who are stranded at home and that they might actually connect on a deeper level through the love of home baking." Amen and thanks to you both! Here is a link to the site. As co-founders of The French Pastry School, the dynamic duo has been teaching the art of pastry to thousands of pastry chefs and students from all over the world for many years.
Justine Fedak--Eversight 2020 Woman of Vision honoree.
And please make sure to mark your calendars for Eversight Illinois' next big, fun, Gift of Sight fundraiser, set for Thursday, October 22! I am proud to announce our 2020 WOMAN OF VISION will be the one and only Justine Fedak, former BMO honcho, co-founder and principal at Instant Impact Group and current Corporate Hippie! Her list of support in the philanthropic community is too long to mention here but we are all so very excited she will be honored at this very SEE-worthy event (theme hint here!) Dr. Majmudar is the Gift of Sight Honoree. Check website here for event details coming soon! (Honored to be a co-chair for the 3rd year with MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo!)
One of our favorite restaurants, La Scarola, has added delivery and to-go options for fans on the North Shore! Armando Vasquez and Joey Mondelli are cooking their
We love you Armando!
little butts off to expand service to Highland Park, Schaumburg, Oakbrook and more. The downtown restaurant at 721 W. Grand is also offering these take-out and delivery services. SO, if you want to enjoy this amazing Italian cuisine in your own home, call 312.243.1740 or 630.865.6239 to set it all up! Buon appetito!
Chicago designers are stepping up to help out too!
Heidi, a nurse at Evanston Hospital, wears a mask designed by Lauren Lein.
Project Runway star Peach Carr and Lauren Lein are both designing masks for those in the medical fields. Where there's a need, you can bet there's a generous-hearted Chicagoan willing to fill it! Kudos to you both!
And then there's this from Snopes: "When readers first came across a biological weapon named “Wuhan-400” in Dean Koontz’s novel “The Eyes of Darkness,” we doubt
Passage from Sylvia Browne's book "End of Days".
anyone had the notion that the famous thriller author was “predicting” a real-world outbreak of COVID-19, coronavirus disease. But in February 2020, after such an outbreak had occurred, eagle-eyed Koontz fans shared this passage as if the famous thriller author was a prognosticator." (Hello, it's pretty damn close to a prediction!) And another coincidence? Self-described psychic Sylvia Browne wrote in her 2008 book "End of Days" that a respiratory illness would spread across the globe in 2020. Say what?!
And now for something a bit naughty! Michelle L' amour is an Oak Park raised burlesque star and a friend. She has created a free website to provide support to entertainers who are out of work. Performers from all over the world are sending in videos that she hosts from her living room. Lol! Called "Quarantine Cabaret", the online show features burlesque, comedy, magic, music and more! (Watch here!) (Not for minors)
Dining Out For Life Chicago eateries and their patrons have provided a lifeline of support for TPAN's mission to care for LGBT and HIV-affected individuals and families in
Participating "Dining Out For Life" restaurants in support of TPAN, thus far.
Chicago. However, Dining Out For Life partners - whose dining rooms closed under an earlier state order-- can still offer carryout, curbside service, drive-thru, and delivery services. On the right is a list of restaurants who pledged their support of this year's Dining Out For Life effort. When you order home delivery or takeout, or consider buying a restaurant gift certificate for a friend, please put these community supporters at the top of your list! (Although, as we know, they ALL need our support). #proudcochair
"Toilet paper" cakes from Sweet T's Bakery & Cake Studio.
Lord knows we need a sense of humor amidst all this bad news! A bakery in Arlington Heights has come up with the perfect antidote, Toilet Paper Cakes! If these creations don't make you smile, nothing will. Tammy Montesino's bakery, Sweet T's Bakery & Cake Studio, are accepting call-ahead orders for pick-up! Now here's one clever way to get your TP! Thanks for the giggles Tammy and your creativity! Visit their website here!
MyEyeDr, my go-to spot for frames, lenses and check-ups, wants you to know they're here for you during this crisis! If you're an existing patient and need new contact lenses, order here! Free shipping too! Thanks so much MED!
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas has come up with a unique way to entertain the kiddies!
Congrats and thanks to our much loved Cook County Treasurer, Maria Pappas. Maria has launched a site and created a song just for children to help ease their concerns during this Coronavirus scare. "Me and My Iguana" is an animated video produced by Pappas, Tim Maeder and Frank Lucas. In the video, a child and an iguana share activities that emphasize friendship while
a young voice sings the original kids tune, "Me and My Iguana." The idea is for the electronic iguana to provide companionship and diversion to out-of-school children during the pandemic. Pappas studied music in high school and college and plays several instruments. Pappas wrote the script, Mader created the graphics and video. Read article here and watch darling video below. Thank you Maria for always putting the community first!
New mom Elizabeth Lawlor with her darling baby Eli.
Now for some really sweet news! My dear friends, Cheryl and
Baby Eli!
David Lawlor's beautiful daughter Elizabeth gave birth to Baby Eli at 4:23 am on April 2. Momma and baby and doing great! So nice to have such happy news for a change! (Dave, as you may or may not know, is the tech genius behind my blog, and therefore an essential person. )
Chef Tony Priolo is working overtime to figure out ways to help his fellow hospitalityworkers. Follow him on Insta @Tony_Priolo.
Now there are a lot of ways out there that you can help our friends who are suffering in the hospitality industry, most of the restaurants have some sort of Employee Relief Fund, but one of the first chefs to get on board and start the process was Chef Tony Priolo, chef/co-owner Piccolo Sogno, Nonnina and Maillard Tavern. He immediately started offering Chicago Hospitality t-shirts for sale with 100% of the proceeds going to the "people who don't have a voice or the means to survive without work in the industry." The government shutdown of bars and restaurants has put thousands out of
Chicago Hospitality t-shirts will benefit workers in the industry.
work for the foreseeable future. Chef Priolo said, "Just as we rely on them to keep Chicago one of the most vibrant dining cities in the world, they rely on us to support them through good times and bad. 100% of the net proceeds from these tees go directly towards financial relief for hourly employees affected by the necessary precautions Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot have implemented." (Please purchase a black or white T-shirt here for only $25! www.stockmfgco.com. (And please share this info if you're so inclined!) Thank YOU Chef Tony!
And another great way to #stayhome and still help the restaurant business? Rent “A Chef’s Voyage,” , a great doc following Chef David Kinch and his Michelin 3-starred culinary team as they travel to France to explore, learn and celebrate his Manresa restaurant's 15th anniversary. The doc premieres today, April 3, on SOMM TV. Every penny of the rental fee goes to the The LEE Initiative’s Restaurant Workers Relief Program, a nationwide network of restaurants providing much needed essentials (meals and provisions) to hospitality workers who have been laid off during this pandemic. The Initiative was created by Chef Edward Lee with Managing Director Lindsey Ofcacek in collaboration with Maker's Mark. Thanks for the info and your support of this Mary Wagstaff! And see trailer below....
And a big thank you goes out to Mayor Lori Lightfoot who is doing her darndest to make self-isolation fun! Her series of hilarious "Stay at Home, Save Lives" PSAs are SNL-worthy! Watch them here!
On a sad note, Chicago has lost one of its most beloved characters and friends, Whitey "Terry" Pearson
Besties in St. Tropez-1999.
has passed at age 90. No one had as much fun in their lifetime than this guy. A 45 year friend of Chuck's, he brought laughter, positivity and joy wherever he went. He was a groomsman at our wedding and we traveled the world together, most memorable were the July 4ths we spent together in St. Tropez for 20 years running. All who knew and loved him will now have a hole in their hearts. His celebratory toasts were always this, "May it never end." RIP dear Whitesides.
I've been so very sad that all of my nonprofit events have been cancelled. The impact on the community has been devastating with many scrambling to find extra ways to raise revenue. (Click here for some resources for nonprofit support) I know they will all come roaring back, bigger and better than ever, so make sure to keep your dancing shoes at the ready and I hope I'll be the first to greet you at the door.
Thank you to all who took the time to answer my questions and provide much needed guidance for the nonprofits, arts and restaurant communities. I wish I could've included everyone. I know we're all stressed and stretched right now but, if you see anything here that touches your heart, please try to help.
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