There are so many plates spinning now but it's a good thing. It means Chicago is thriving in brand new ways with lots of new restaurants opening, new events and so much more. Phil Stefani is bringing back his much loved Tavern on Rush to the Thompson hotel this summer; La Grande Boucherie and La Serre have brought a bit of Paris to Chicago. Tre Dita in the St. Regis is dramatic and delicious and Chris and Susie Malayon's Butcher and the Bear is reviving the Lincoln Park dining scene single-handedly.
The event scene has never been hotter with almost each one being a record-breaker. People are stepping out and stepping up with no signs of slowing down. And speaking of new events, I hope you will
consider joining us for a debut WINGS Program fashion show fundraiser,"Blossom," on Thursday, April 25 at the chic 21c Museum Hotel. The night will highlight fashions by Elda de la Rosa and feature live entertainment by jazz great Elaine Dame. To add even more excitement to the night, handsome Nigel
Barker will serve as our emcee. The event will benefit WINGS, a nonprofit that supports survivors of domestic violence, and is being produced by Tracey Mayer, who shared her own inspiring story recently here in Fete Magazine. I'm very proud and excited to be the honoree. (To buy tickets and for more info, please click here!) Also, please try to join us for the kick-off party at Veronica Beard (11 E. Walton) on Thursday, April 11, from 5:30- 7:30. Hosted by Sylvia Perez, Tracey Mayer and me, this VB event will donate 15% of sales to benefit the nonprofit. #VBGivesBack.
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In celebration of its 61st season, Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) hosted its “Studio 61” gala at the Ravenswood Event Center on Feb. 24. Honorary Chair for the evening was Emmy Award-winner (“So You Think You Can Dance”)
Al Blackstone. The festivities began with a cocktail
reception before a warm welcome by GDC's Artistic Director Nan Giordano, Executive Director Erica Lynette Edwards and Board President Chris D’hondt. The highlight of the evening was the sneak peek of performances by GDC dancers of two works premiering in April at the Harris Theater: Adam Houston’s “unconditional” and Al Blackstone’s “Gershwin in B.” Guests also enjoyed an open bar, silent auction, plated dinner and a lively paddle raise. Captains for the “Studio
61” host committee were Paula and Tim Friedman. Committee members included Courtney and David Burk, John Cipriano, Tara Cope, Pam Crutchfield, Chris and Christine D’hondt, Ann Ford and Alex De Frise, Nan Giordano, Trey Gonzalez and Kip Helverson, Jennifer and Kevin Kastenholz, Tina and Brian Monaghan, Janet Rauschenberger, Dan Sabol, Cesar G. Salinas, Richard
and Diane Weinberg and Chuck and me. Sponsors for GDC’s “Studio 61” Gala Benefit were Anna Held Floral Studio, Breakthru Beverage Group, Darvin Furniture & Mattress, EP Event Rentals, DJ Madrid, Mansueto Foundation, Moët Hennessy, Ravenswood Event Center, John Robak and Smith's Men's Store – Lake Forest. Watch for GDC’s exciting upcoming performances at the Harris Theater April 5 – 6 titled, “Season 61 | UNLIMITED!” The program will feature world premieres of Blackstone’s one act, “Gershwin in B," and Houston’s “unconditional,” plus popular selections from GDC’s repertoire. (For more information on these and other GDC events, click here.
On Saturday, May 18, please join us for the 2024 Dream Awards. The event will be held at the Kehrein Center for the Arts, 5628 W. Washington, and is "A Salute to Chicago" produced by the fabulous Mable Buckner. Emceed by the one and only Cheryl Burton, the night will honor "Legends who have achieved their dreams in Music, Film, Dance,
Media and Journalism." Hosea Sanders will receive the Excellence in Broadcast award; George Daniels will accept the Living Legend Award; Tracey V. Bell will receive the Trailblazer Award; Jerry Butler will accept the Icon Award, and so many others. (I will be proud to accept the Excellence in Media honor.) There will be live entertainment, light hors d'oeuvres and moving tributes, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Building a Brighter Future for the Arts, a comprehensive human services nonprofit that offers programs and services in the areas of community engagement, education employment, family services, health equity and youth services. Please join us! For tickets and info, please click here! _______________________________________________________________________
Popular businessmen Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza hosted a blow-out St. Paddy’s Day party at Gibson’s Restaurant on March 15. The by-invite-only event included 300 of Neal and Marko’s closest friends and offered one
delightful surprise after another. The party was packed on the 2nd level with balloons and festive décor everywhere you looked. Irish dancers thrilled the crowd along with the legendary Shannon Rovers (who seemingly appeared in every single restaurant and bar across Chicago!). There were so many familiar faces, included the Governor and First Lady MK, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson, Adam Vitale, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff and Frank Jeffery, Nora Daley Conroy, Steve Lombardo, Mike Siegel, Alderman Tom Tunney, Mark Olley, Sherry Lea Holson, Chuck Jordan, Virginia and Josh Hale, Sara Albrecht, Leslie Hindman, Joe Gromacki and many more. When Neal was asked how long the party would last, he said, “Until they kick us out and the lights go out.” Gotta love his spirit!
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Punxsutawney Phil, aka Chicago Harry, was a little reluctant to come out of his tree stump for the grand celebration at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier on Feb. 2 but, after handler Mark Szafran finally wrangled him
out, the results weren’t good – he saw his shadow, ergo 6 more weeks of winter! The light-hearted, fun-filled event planned by Grant DePorter (Harry Caray’s CEO) and team, was “100% what they were hoping for.” From the guest list to the event details, it was a smile a minute. Grant
replicated the entire Groundhog Day event straight from details in the film. The free-to-the-public event also included a Celebration of Life for the film’s director Harold Ramis (with screenplay by Danny Rubin and Ramis). It was the 10th anniversary of Harold’s passing and his widow, Erica Mann Ramis, was on hand to honor him along with fans and cast members. (Harold was also a partner in the restaurant.) Harry
Caray’s backyard patio, where the ceremony took place, was filled along with a bank of cameras from every TV station in town. Almost every cast member showed up except for Andie McDowell and a couple others. When Bill Murray walked onstage (he had not been announced as attending), the crowd went wild. Cast members in
attendance included Brian Doyle-Murray (Buster Green), Marita Geraghty (Nancy Taylor), Robin Duke (Doris the Waitress), David Pasquesi (the Psychiatrist), Peggy Roeder (the Piano Teacher) and Richard Henzel (the DJ), Ken Hudson Campbell (Man in the Hall) and Richard Henzel (DJ voice heard on clock radio). This was the first time the memorable cast has officially reunited since the film’s release in 1993. Actors absent
from the stage and who called in with messages included Chris Elliott (Larry) and Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned Ryerson). Erica read a message from former President Obama: “Harold’s movies make us laugh, but they do more than that. They encourage us to root for the underdog, to identify with the outsider and to
remember that we’re all capable of changing for the better.” Brian Doyle-Murray as “Buster Green,” President of the Chicago Groundhog Club, initiated the Groundhog Day Ceremony where Chicago Harry, the live groundhog, emerged from his tree stump to reveal 6 more weeks of winter. Chicago Alderman Brendan Reilly closed out the ceremony by reading a City of Chicago proclamation
declaring it Harold Ramis Day in Chicago and the group onstage toasted with the drink from the film, sweet vermouth on the rocks with a twist. Harry Caray’s Tavern transformed into a truly immersive Groundhog Day experience, featuring food and beverages inspired by Groundhog Day’s Tip Top Café, a snowman, and large ice sculptures, similar to those seen
in the movie. Several artifacts from Harold’s storied career were on display including the Armani coat Bill Murray wore in Groundhog Day, the bust of Harold Ramis that appeared in the 2016 version of Ghostbusters, the jumpsuits worn by Harold Ramis and Bill Murray in Ghostbusters, and several of Harold’s leather-bound shooting scripts including Groundhog Day. Navy Pier also participated in the fun
festivities. The film and soundtrack played inside the Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion and an image of a groundhog was featured as the centerpiece of the Centennial Wheel. Various restaurants on the Pier served Groundhog Day specials, and Navy Pier’s Sable Hotel called itself the “Pennsylvanian Hotel” for the day in
honor of the hotel featured in the movie. Notables seen on the scene included former Governor Pat Quinn, Senator Dick Durbin, Aldermen Brian Hopkins and Brendan Reilly, Fox-32’s Jake Hamilton, Roe Conn, Richard Roeper,
Marilynn Gardner (Navy Pier president/CEO), Bonni Pear, Chaz Ebert, Joanna DePorter, Pam Kasper (Ramis’ assistant), Betsy Shepherd, Sandy Golub, Jamie Gabala, Chuck Jordan, Beth Heller, Larry Wert and Tom Skilling. Chris O. Biddle was on hand with his band of “Ghostbusters,” completely decked out in gear inspired by the film. (This group is available for any event with a donation to Children’s Hospital, if interested email him at [email protected].)
The Children’s Research Fund’s signature event, “The Children’s Ball,” returned this year to the Hilton Chicago. Aptly themed “Curiosity Cures”, more than 900 Chicagoans came together for the black-tie gala hosted by Dr. Elizabeth and Andrew Reyes, the 2023 Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball co-chairs. Over $3.75 million was raised at the event, helping to raise the total to $4.65 million for the organization’s annual campaign. The funds raised will
support the Children’s Research Fund’s three-year, $9 million commitment to Advanced Therapeutics at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. An enthusiastic
drumline led guests from the reception to the International Ballroom, where guests were welcomed with a dance set by Becca Kaufman Orchestra. After welcoming remarks, guests enjoyed an energetic set from a School of Rock Band, featuring young talent from the North Shore. Following dinner, a program featured a moving patient video and a paddle raise. The evening included remarks from the Children’s Ball event co-chairs Dr. Elizabeth and Andrew Reyes, who spoke about their
dedication to pediatric health. Andrew’s family has a long involvement in Lurie Children’s and Elizabeth has a
connection there as a physician. In addition to remarks from Lurie Children’s President & CEO Dr. Thomas Shanley, and Children’s Research Fund chair Peter Bensinger, Jr., the audience was inspired by the words and work of Dr. Sonali Chaudhury, who spoke compellingly about a promising new treatment for the most aggressive forms of childhood leukemia. Guests
then watched an inspiring video about Ella, a young patient of Dr. Chaudhury’s, and her family, who were in attendance at the event. This year’s leading event sponsors included presenting sponsors Jewel Osco
and Hinsdale-based investment firm OceanM19, as well as Enova, Pancoe Family Foundation and Savills, among others. Lurie Children’s has a network of over 20 outpatient and primary care locations and 10 partner hospitals, providing top pediatric care across the greater Chicago area. Lurie Children’s relies on philanthropic support to care for more than 260,000 children each year. Learn more at luriechildrens.org. childrensresearchfund.org. (Photos by Ana Miyares)
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Anyone who knows me, knows how proud I am of my Playboy history. And, for a recent podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Hef and Kimberly Conrad Hefner's oldest son, Marston. I've met him before but it
was only in passing so this was my first chance to really get to know him a little better. What surprised me was how deeply kind and thoughtful he was. Before the
interview, I had listened to other podcasts with some of Hef's former girlfriends (Bridget and Holly) and wife Crystal, all of whom (except for Bridget, so FAR!) have written scathing books about Hef and their life with Playboy. I was astounded to find that he seemingly had no animosity whatsoever about this. He even suggested he understood that by saying things like they did about his dad, they might "sell more books or attract more followers." We cover a wide range of topics, from what life was like at the Mansion to advice his famous dad shared. It was a joyful revisiting! Anyway, listen HERE and let me know what you think.
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A media event for the new Flyover attraction was held in advance of its opening at Chef Art Smith’s Reunion restaurant recently with the principals of the experience on hand to explain what all the buzz is about. A simple answer is that it’s a “love letter to Chicago” that is now open at the Pier, in the old IMAX space. On hand for a
Q&A were Lisa Adams (COO and executive producer), Rick Rothschild (creative director), David Mossop (film writer and director/ associate creative director), Rich Daniels (music director), Elliott Wheeler (score composter and executive music producer) and Dr. Walt Whitman (founder/CEO Soul Children of Chicago).
After the guests mixed and mingled and enjoyed Chef Art’s delicious appetizers, the group (mentioned above) sat down for a lengthy discussion. Adams stressed the mission of Flyover, “to amplify some of the epic places on the planet and be true to that.” Rothschild spoke about the new technology used to make this attraction possible and noted his love for our city. “Chicago has one of the most beautiful urban landscapes in the world and certainly in America.” The ride seats 61 people who can view
the attraction on a 65-foot spherical screen as they glide on a flight journey through Chicago. The experience uses a state-of-the-art moving platform with six degrees of motion that will enable guests to feel every sweeping movement of the experience. Special effects, including wind, mist and location-specific scents, will heighten the immersive experience as guests hang suspended with their feet dangling above stunning natural and urban wonders. Rothschild added, “The
ride is fully immersive, not a VR, goggled or glasses experience. It is exceedingly high resolution with a 3-dimensional soundtrack. It’s the most immersive
environmental system we’ve ever put into a ride. We hope it reveals the soul of Chicago, both of its people and the city.” David Mossop shared, “Everything is so beautiful here. Even more so is the beauty of its people, their grit, spirit and integrity. Chicago is just cool, it’s cooler than the other cities, easily." (Flyover is open now, tickets and info can be found here. Adult tickets are $24.95, children 13 and under, $14.95 and military $19.95. To view the trailer, click here.) (The event was produced by Noreen Heron, Heron Agency.)
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The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum scored again hosting yet another wonderful event, this time with two of the top insiders of the fashion world. Hal Rubenstein, a longtime fashion director, consultant, media personality and author, appeared in conversation with Fern Mallis, the award-
winning creator of New York Fashion Week. The event was held at the Women’s Athletic Club on March 6 and co-chaired by Toni Canada and Dusty Stemer. During the hour-long interview, attendees enjoyed a thorough, informative and incredibly funny interview that explored television’s influence on everyday style throughout the past 70 years. The discussion centered around Rubenstein’s new book, “Dressing the Part: Television’s Most Stylish Shows.” Rubenstein and Mallis led the crowd
through a joyful romp of TV fashion and its impact on style today. The book begins with fashions from the hit series “Brideshead Revisited” and goes all the way through to “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” In between, we see
trends from “Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “The Lucy Show,” “Downton Abbey,” “The Crown,” “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour,” “Sex and the City” and so many others. The audience was riveted to the conversation onstage that was also accompanied by a carefully curated video featuring the fashions and TV shows mentioned in the book. Event sponsors were Liz Stiffel, Karen Gray-Krehbiel, Pamella Capitanini (who was also champagne sponsor), Erica Meyer, Randolph Street Market, Noren Ungaretti, Lisa Warshauer and Richard and Diane Weinberg. Table sponsors were Shelley and William Farley and Shauna Montgomery.
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Chicago's own, Chilli Pepper, recently presented Oprah
with GLAAD's Vanguard Award in L.A.This award is presented to allies who have made a significant difference in promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people and issues. Previous honorees include Bad Bunny, Beyoncé and JAY-Z, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Kerry Washington, Cher, Janet Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor, Kacey Musgraves and Antonio Banderas. Congrats to our Chilli AND Oprah!_______________________________________________________________________
Tre Dita, the latest addition to Lettuce Entertain You’s restaurant portfolio, made a grand entrance onto Chicago’s dining scene with a splash of glitz, glamour and drama at the St. Regis on March 13. The exclusive opening event welcomed over 400 guests, including VIPs, local notables and even a former
mayor. Tre Dita (pronounced trā dē-tä) means three fingers in Italian and is a nod to the thickness of a traditional bistecca Fiorentina that the restaurant served on opening night from its open-hearth wood fired grill. The Tuscan steakhouse, located in the St. Regis at 401 E. Wacker, is in collaboration with award-winning Chef Evan Funke (of Felix, Mother Wolf). As guests arrived and checked in, they were serenaded by live music as photographers captured the
moments. Chicly clad attendants directed partygoers to the fifth floor where the main event unfolded. The Melman family, renowned for their commitment to excellence, never do anything in half measures and this
restaurant was no exception. A dramatic two-story dining room/bar area offered breathtaking views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. There were so many activations and serving stations that invitees were given a map upon entry. On the mezzanine, an artist was busily sketching a scantily clad model lounging on a sofa as a server poured generous measures of Amaro Nonino from a glass spout.
A lavish antipasti table was nearby. A highlight of the night, and one which drew a continuous line, was Chef Funke’s bistecca Fiorentina station. Antipasti tables adorned with magnificent floral arrangements were spread throughout the space as well as wine tastings. One room was dedicated to desserts with a gelati cart and Italian cookies while another station served delicious house-made
pasta. Live jazz added to the festive atmosphere. Seen on the scene were former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Linda Johnson Rice with daughter Alexa Rice, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Rocky Mosele, the Landan Twins (Andrew and Jon), Sylvia Perez with daughter Magali Blasdell, Dr. Julius Few, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Phil Vettel, Les Coney, Chef Jean Joho (Miru), Desiree Rogers, Beth Heller, Karen and Phil Stefani, Tom Kehoe, Matt Rodrigues, Cortney Hall, Mike Siegel, Monsignor Velo, Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza, Martha and Molly Melman, Lou Canellis, Nina Mariano, Billy Marovitz, Pasquale Gianni, and so many others. (Tre Dita, 401 E. Wacker, treditarestaurant.com)
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So many thanks to Carol Fox & Associates on its recent "Cultural Catalyst" campaign, "30 Women Who Impact Chicago's Art & Entertainment Scenes." I am honored to be included among these amazing women: Lynne Belsky
(Time to Dance); Tracy Blackwell (Blue Man Group Chicago); Andrea Darlas (WLS-AM; Lori
Dimun (Harris Theater); Lisa Fielding (WBBM-AM); Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell (Hubbard Street Dance Chicago); Brooke Flanagan (Steppenwolf Theatre Company); Marissa Lynn Ford (League of Chicago Theatres); Nora Gainer (Art Institute of Chicago);
Michelle Gonzalez (Choose Chicago); Sandra Guthman (Polk Brothers Foundation; Erin Harkey (Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events); Arica Hilton (Hilton Contemporary); Gail Kalver (formerly Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and River North Dance Company); Donna LaPietra (Chicago Public Library Foundation); Diana Martinez (McAninch Arts Center); Princess Mhoon (Chicago Black Legacy Dance Project); Cynthia Noble (Art on THE MART); Elise Paschen (Poet); Ellen Sandor (Artist); Janet Carl Smith (formerly Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events); Kia Smith (South Chicago Dance Project); LeeAnn Trotter (NBC Chicago); Candace Jordan (Crains Chicago Business, Chicago Star) and others, to be announced.
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Congrats Bobbi Panter! Bobbi’s back and Nilodor Pet Brands has got her! Nilodor, a leader in odor elimination and cleaning solutions across various markets, has
announced the return of Bobbi Panter, renowned for her high-quality pet shampoos. Bobbi's journey began with homemade blends in her kitchen to aid her pet's sensitive skin, leading to a partnership with Nilodor Pet Brands, which eventually acquired her brand. Known for shunning harsh chemicals, her products gained popularity among groomers and pet owners. Bobbi's re-entry into the company brings excitement, with plans to enhance existing lines and develop new products. Her commitment to pets extends beyond products, evident in her philanthropic endeavors. Nilodor Pet Brands, committed to safe and effective pet care solutions, looks forward to collaborating with Bobbi Panter once again, as they continue to innovate in the pet product category.
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Adorn Bar & Restaurant recently hosted the "Seasons of Culinary Excellence" dinner, featuring renowned alumni chefs from Four Seasons properties on March 21. Led by Executive
Chef Richie Farina, the event celebrated Spring ingredients with a four-course dinner, showcasing the culinary legacy of Four Seasons. Wine experts and former hotel employees added to the experience with meaningful toasts and reflections on their time at Four Seasons. Guests included notable figures Ina Pinkney, Phil Vettel, and Chef Art Smith, as well as esteemed former hotel employees who have risen to remarkable success, including Scott Taber, Senior Vice President of Global Hospitality at Four Seasons, and Kylie Hallinan, Corporate Director of People and Culture. The event raised funds for Howard Brown Health, supporting their mission of providing healthcare and support to the LGBTQ+ community.
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Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is always fighting the good fight. Her recent study, "The Few Decide for the Many," about the appallingly low number of voters was an eye opener. Read it here. She also appeared in Neil Steinberg's column in the Sun-Times on her fabulous and uber-popular WVON radio show. Killin' it!
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Congrats are in order for longtime, much loved media star Fred Weintraub, who was the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award. Presented by the City of Chicago/Chicago Public Schools, the award recognized his role in promoting high school sports as the executive producer of "Game of the Week" for Weigel Broadcasting, The U and CW 26. Fred has worked in Chicago broadcasting for his entire career beginning in 1985.
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The Joffrey Ballet keeps serving up perfection! Make sure you mark your calendars for their next performance, "Midsummer Night's Dream." "Far from a Shakespearean tale, Alexander Ekman's production is a mind-bending trip to a surreal realm of unearthly delights." (April 25 through May 5, at the Lyric Opera House, joffrey.org)
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Music of the Baroque returns to the Kehrein Center for the Arts on Tuesday, April 16, for "Classical Creatures at the Kehrein." The animal kingdom comes alive through charming works for the orchestra. Dogs bark in "Spring" from Vivaldi's famous Four Seasons. Crickets chirp in Telemann's "Cricket Symphony" and frogs ribbit in his work for solo violin and orchestra, all led by Nicholas Kraemer. (For tickets and more info, click here!)
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The Service Club of Chicago will host its annual Spring Luncheon, this year at the Ritz-Carlton on Friday, May 17. Co-chaired by Julia Jacobs, Whitney Reynolds and Bethany Florek, the event will begin at 10:30 am with a
cocktail reception, raffle, auctions and a hat competition.
For tickets/info, click here! And to see other popular events, see here: Chicago Public Library Foundation- “A Night in the Stacks,” Harold Washington Library, Friday, April 5, 7-11 pm; Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation- Bear Tie Ball- Sat., April 6, Pazzo, 311 S. Wabash; Vernissage, opening night of Expo Chicago, Thursday, April 11, 5 – 7 pm, Festival Hall, Navy Pier; Luminary Awards Dinner, Four Seasons, Wed., April 24, 6-9 pm. (Benefiting Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center); Ronald McDonald House Charities, Geraghty (2520 S. Hoyne), 6 pm, Saturday, April 27; Brookfield Zoo “Whirl” fundraiser, Saturday, April 27, Hilton Chicago, 6:30 pm; Chicago Lighthouse's "Seeing What's Possible" Gala, Friday, May 31, Four Seasons, 6 pm.
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On Thursday, April 18, join the Service Club Auxiliary Board at The Green, 2131 N. Elston for a brand-new event. Guests will be able to golf and mingle over food and drinks while enjoying state-of-the-art golf simulators in a realistic and immersive experience. Whether you are interested in golfing a competitive 18 holes or would rather enjoy leisurely games with friends, you will have access to world-renowned courses and various ways to play. There is something for everyone - beginners and experts! Tickets are $80 per person and includes 2 hours of golf, food and 2 drink tickets. Info here!
Kehoe Designs is HIRING! There are great opportunities for talented people who are interested in positions as Event Coordinator, Creative Services Manager, Graphics Manager and Floral Design Manager. If this sounds like YOU or someone you might know? Check out available openings here!
If it's Spring, then art fairs and festivals are right around the corner. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements from Amdur Productions! They have a fabulous art show
schedule planned for this summer, beginning May 11. Complete listings are here. :-)
FAshion artist Borris Powell wants to take us back in time with his next show, King's Kourt. Get ready for his most
explosive FAshion Theater Show ever. Powell's love for Kings and Queens and their royal lives in the 17th century is what has inspired his next show, specifically, King Louis XIV, builder of Versailles. Borris wants to take you back to a time of Opulence. Join him for a night with The Sun King and see what it's like to be invited to King Borris' Kourt. Proceeds benefit Saving Lives Foundation, a 501c3 organization. (For tickets/info, click here: www.borrispowell.com )
Our recent trip to Palm Beach was a life-saver. Stress melted away at the first palm tree sighting. Jimmy Buffet had a great idea when he titled one of his albums "Changes in Latitude, Changes in Attitude." No truer words could apply to a vacation getaway to Florida. We were lucky to return to Palm Beach, even though the weather was better in
Chicago at the time, go figure! It was Penny the Pencil Neck’s first airplane ride and she was a champ. Never made a peep the entire time. It’s sad though that, nowadays, airplane travel isn’t what it used to be. I don’t expect everyone to travel in a bow tie and tuxedo and it’s not really about
what people wear, it’s the chaos that I dread. You never know what to expect, flights are changed on a whim, doors are blowing off and seats are now one inch apart. It’s not exactly the luxe life but it’s the only alternative and we can’t afford our own plane, yet. We used to love to drive to Florida, stopping along the way at charming roadside restaurants. Now everything is a chain and much less
interesting, unless it’s a Cracker Barrel, of course! We have a few favorites there that are always our go-to’s,
like Pizza al Fresco. There’s no place in town that has a more charming ambiance- or better pizza. We also love Swifty’s at the Colony. We’ve been a fan of this spot since Robert Caravaggi managed it in NYC. We have so many fond memories of being there with friends and so, it was natural, that we would love its Palm Beach location too. We also love La Galoue, again a favorite from NYC. We dined at Café Flora again too, but even though the ambiance is wonderful in a courtyard right in front of my friend Kim Renk’s fabulous store, the
food was underwhelming. We stayed at a friend’s gorgeous home a half block from the ocean. Her pool is surrounded by sky-high hedges where monk parakeets and hummingbirds can be found. It’s so tranquil, it was hard to leave. One night, we went to a grand home on Middle Road for a party thrown by Palm Beach’s ultimate host and hostess, Greg and Kim Renk Dryer. It seems every party they have shows up in all the posh magazines and shiny sheets and this one was no different. The guest of honor was Ray Kelly, the longest serving commissioner in NYPD history. After his handling of the World Trade Center bombing, he was offered the position of FBI Director, which he turned down. Kelly served as a
Marine Colonel, fought in the Vietnam war and was endorsed by Sen. Schumer to become Secretary of Homeland Security. In other words, he is an all-around bad-ass. On this night, we was surrounded by young ladies all clamoring for his attention. Even at age 82, the man is still attractive. Oh, what a night! We ended our stay in PB with a dinner at Rocco’s Tacos, another favorite, before heading to Chuck’s favorite spot, Oh My Chocolates! ice cream shop! It’s no wonder people live so long in Florida. Smiles for miles.
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PAWS Chicago brings back it's howl-worthy Animal Magnetism party on Friday, April 26, to Morgan Manufacturing. For tickets and more info, click here! _______________________________________________________________________
And last, but not least, big cograts to Illinois Supreme Court Justice Joy Virginia Cunningham, who won her race by a landslide! She will be retained on the court where she belongs. I also want to thank all my friends who voted for her. She truly is the real deal and Chuck and I are proud to know her.
Well, that's it for now! Thanks so much for being here with me! I hope you've enjoyed this recap of all the fun in the city of big shoulders and beyond! Chicago may have a few kinks to work out, but I think it's definitely worth holding on to. Just remember to give where you can and try to keep positive thoughts.
Love, as always,
Candace
P.S. History-making perfection on ice....
Thanks so much Rhonda!!!!!
Posted by: Candace Jordan | September 4, 2024 at 01:47 PM
Thanks so much Norman!!! Hope all is well! Miss you!
Posted by: Candace Jordan | September 4, 2024 at 01:46 PM
I remain forever amazed and impressed by your work. Always happy when I see you or Chuck. At the Jewel. Stay healthy.
Posted by: Norman Baugher | May 7, 2024 at 01:59 PM
This had to take a month to write!!!✍🏿 filled with everything that happened
of any import this winter.
Posted by: Rhonda Sanderson | March 27, 2024 at 06:33 PM