Candid Candace

EVEN THOUGH WE'RE BETTER TOGETHER, MANY CHICAGO NONPROFITS' TAKING VIRTUAL VICTORY LAPS

Plus: Apparel Industry Foundation REVS UP; Friends of Prentice "Together at Home"; "Sounds of Celebration: An Evening at Home with the CSO"; "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker"; WINGS' Purple Tie Ball; CASL celebrates Bernie; Streeterville Week; Palm Beach happenings; Service Club's Phantom Gala pivots to victory; Shannon Rovers bring smiles roving around Rush Street; The Holiday Shoppe; Mangel's and the Drake celebrating 100; Eleanor the Musical streaming soon; DMen Tap taps into the spirit of Christkindlmarket; A Covid vaccine?; A surprise holiday pop-up; Maria rules the pulpit too; PAWS Chicago's virtual Fur Ball; One Tail at a Time's virtual Houndstooth Ball; Doorstep Divas Chicago-the Holiday Edition; Jennifer and Erin's happy news; Wings to Cure cancer; This & That; Videos and SOOOO much more!

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Rev Up honoree Sherrill Bodine accepts her award from designer/AIBI board president Lauren Lein.

The Apparel Industry Foundation hosted its annual Rev Up! fashion show/fundraiser virtually on October 29 honoring author/philanthropist Sherrill Bodine and featuring designs

AIBI executive director Ambar Campos (R) and Kat Anderson (AIBI member services coordinator).

from seven top local designers. The exciting show was broadcast simultaneously on Facebook Live and YouTube Live as well as on the Tiltify donation platform (which remains open for donations through November 15). From beginning to end, this high powered fashion show

Model Atelier designer Robin Harris (L) with one of her models.

was flawless, thanks to the production by Tracey Tarantino DiBuono of ZZAZZ Productions and filming by Francis Son. AIBI executive director Ambar Campos (who has been with AIBI for decades since she was a young girl!) and Kat

Glam model wearing Elda de la Rosa.

Anderson (AIBI member services coordinator) planned the event to perfection, with a great script and creative filming ideas. I was proud to host this hour long event, which was filmed (in part) at AIBI's office at 4255 N. Knox. The fashion films were shot at Pat and

Kristine Kinder and designer Al Menotti.

Joe Perillo's Bentley Gold Coast (which is typically the venue of choice for their live in-person events). Fashions segments included designs by Elda de la Rosa who

Designer Lauren Lein (2nd from R) with her models.

presented her romantic Esperanza (Hope) Collection. Lauren Lein (Cavanaugh) (who is also AIBI board president) showcased her collection titled "Lauren: at Home, Work, and Play," whimsical designs with an artful,

Designer Peach Carr's whimsical designs.

feminine aesthetic. Model Atelier designer Robin Harris focused on fashions for tall women with her collection titled "Vertically Blessed in the City." Designer Peach Carr burst onto the fashion scene as a cheeky, self-taught designer from Chicago

Rebellion handbag designer Stephanie Wheat (2nd from L) with models.

on the hit reality show Project Runway (Season 8 and All Stars Season 2). Drawing from her 60s and 70s childhood, her collection was inspired by paper dolls. Designer Daryl Sneed displayed his fashion vision between two brands, Ricorso (which focuses on

Designer Daryl Sneed with his models.

essentials with impeccable tailoring) and Soundoff (a line that explores the multi-cultural street scene in Chicago). Al Menotti, designer for Menotti Couture, has been designing women's fashions since 1985 and his collection featured timeless designs with clean, simple lines. Rebellion designer Stephanie

Designer Elda de la Rosa.

Wheat's handbags are made from upholstery grade leathers and beautiful fur pelts and are light weight and comfortable to carry with an edge of modern fashion. Before Sherrill accepted her honor

It was an honor to host this fabulous event! Thank you AIBI!

from AIBI board president/designer Lauren Lein, several friends congratulated her via video. They included Laurie Demma Davis, Mary Clare Moll, Tracey DiBuono, Lezley Hodes (who called her a "change agent in stilettos"), Lauren Lein, Karen Peters, Myra Reilly, Tina

CHEERS to all who supported and donated! Thank YOU!

Weller, Susan Gohl, Sally Jo Pfaff, Beena Joseph, moi and others. AIBI was created by the late Mayor Harold Washington in 1987 as a Delegate Agency of the City of Chicago and remains today the only official organization in Illinois specifically dedicated to the needs of the sewn products and manufacturing industries. AIBI nurtures the Chicago design and creative industries through a series of innovative programs that allow today’s dreamers to be the design stars of tomorrow. (For more info or to make a donation, click here!).

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FOP executive director Kristen Field and Michael Borders, FOP board president.

Friends of Prentice (FOP), a non-profit organization working in partnership with Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital to fund innovative and leading-edge research benefiting the lives of women, raised nearly $600,000 at its annual fundraising benefit, themed Still Together, At Home. Due to COVID-19, this is the first year that the gala was held virtually on Saturday, October 24. The

FOP emcee Val Warner.

dollars raised during the virtual gala will go towards awarding doctors and clinicians grants needed to continue their life saving research across all areas of women’s health. Mike Borders, Friends of Prentice Board President, along with Executive Director Kristen Field, co-hosted the event with special appearances from gala co-chairs Donna Socol and Shannon Flavin. Close to 1,000 guests tuned in from the comfort of their own homes and “hosted” a virtual or socially distanced table. This year’s gala featured one of a kind online auctions, music from DJ Megan Taylor and the Dr. Bombay band (with my favorites, Lee Golub on drums and singer Molly Callinan) as well as a cocktail hour led by two-time James Beard award-winner and mixologist Belinda Chang. Windy City Live co-host Val Warner served as emcee for the event that

Shannon Flavin, and friends--event co-chair.

encouraged guests to ‘come together’ virtually to honor the healthcare community while raising critical funds for medical research. In addition, the frontline health heroes, clinicians and physicians who have received grants from Friends of Prentice shared highlights of their research and the positive impact the funding has had on the research conducted within their respective

Dr. Bombay, Lee Golub and band, performed.

areas of women’s health. "We are so humbled and grateful for everyone who showed support to FOP by attending our virtual gala,” said Borders. “This year’s gala definitely looked and felt different, but it was a successful night of not only celebrating all our

Singer Molly Callinan performed with Dr. Bombay during the event.

healthcare heroes, but also celebrating the mission of Friends of Prentice – to provide crucial seed money to brilliant clinicians and researchers who are shaping the future of women’s health care.” Since 1983, Friends of Prentice has raised over $20M and awarded grants to more than 100 researchers and clinical programs. FOP’s annual grants initiative has funded projects in the areas of COVID-19 research, gynecologic oncology, mental health, heart disease, disparities in access to care, diabetes, HIV, uterine and pelvic medicine, genetic biomarker research, home health care outreach and more. Funds raised during the gala go directly to research, education, and patient care programs at Prentice. (To make a donation or learn more about the nonprofit, click here!

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Cellist Yo-Yo Ma performs with Civic Orchestra member Dara Hankins.

The CSO's recent "Sounds of Celebration: An Evening at Home with the CSO", a virtual event, was a blockbuster raising over $910,000 (and counting) on October 31! Musical stars from around the world reflected on what makes the CSO so special with superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma creating an evening highlight during his duet with fellow cellist Dara Hankins, a Civic Orchestra member. Chiming in from Ravenna, Italy, CSO music director Riccardo Muti said, "I'm waiting until the orchestra can be together again...My family, my music family, is the Chicago Symphony so practically, I am sort of a father without the family around." He thinks the reunion will be "like a miracle" with the "feelings of every person coming together to create something really magical."  Other contributors to the special evening included jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, trumpeter/composer Wynton Marsalis and pianist Mitsuko Uchida. The evening concluded with Robert Chen and principal cellist John Sharp performing Ravel's Sonata for Violin and Cello.  

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The Joffrey Ballet's Ashley Wheater, Marie B. Galvin artistic director, took us behind-the-scenes of Christopher Wheeldon's "The Nutcracker."

The Women's Board of The Joffrey Ballet hosted a virtual event, "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker" on Friday, November 7. The 45 minute (afternoon) event was a look back at the last 5 years of Christopher Wheeldon's "The Nutcracker" and allowed viewers into a world of magic, mind-blowing creativity and artistic genius. When the Joffrey first introduced this production in 2016, I was still in love with the old version and couldn't imagine how it could be improved upon. Boy, was I ever wrong. Wheeldon, along with an amazing team, completely

The Nutcracker choreographer Christopher Wheeldon.

reimagined the "Nut," moving the setting to Chicago in 1892 during the construction of the famed World's Columbian Exposition. And the protagonist, Marie, was no longer a rich girl but rather an immigrant worker's child, a dreamer who has very

WB member/co-chair Marcie Wright.

little but through an epic, magical Christmas journey, is to gain a great deal. The Great Impresario character was actually based on architect Daniel Burnham, who was the director of works for the Exposition. The story was written by brilliant children's book author/illustrator Brian Selznick, ("The Invention of Hugo

WB member/ co-chair Jessica Jecmen.

Cabret" and others) and beautifully narrated by Judy Hsu, ABC 7 Chicago. Ashley Wheater, the Marie B. Galvin artistic director, opened the show welcoming viewers along with co-chairs Melinda LaGrange, Jessica Jecmen and Marcie Wright. In interviews with company artists, we heard from Anais Bueno, Dylan Gutierrez, Dara Holmes, Victoria Jaiani, Yumi

Author Brian Selznick.

Kanazawa and Greig Matthews. The behind-the-scenes footage was breathtaking and made me wish we could see it onstage for this holiday season. And the scenes of Wheeldon with the dancers showed you what a genius choreographer he truly is. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Joffrey’s Crisis Stabilization Fund, a $12M initiative to provide for the continued health of the organization despite the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope you will consider a donation to keep this vital arts organization alive and thriving. Thank you Joffrey for this peek behind the curtain!

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Mike and Melissa Canning, lead sponsors of the event.

At the 20th annual WINGS' Purple Tie Ball on October 3, 400 attendees came together virtually to end domestic violence, celebrate survivors and support victims. The event featured the band Maggie Speaks and guests listened to impassioned speeches about the scourge of domestic violence and the ways that WINGS

WINGS Supporters Jared and Kevin Wasserman

is working to break the cycle in the Chicagoland area. Rebecca Darr, WINGS President/CEO said, “We are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of the attendees of the Purple Tie Ball. Your generosity will support so many families who are escaping domestic violence.” Jillvona accepted the David K. Hill award, an award given to an outstanding WINGS graduate each year. 80 guests received a "Gala in a Bag," delivered by the Entertaining Company that included dinner, wine, hand sanitizer, chocolates and a program book. The funds raised, over $325,000, will help support WINGS' mission to provide housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence.

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CASL honoree Bernie Wong.

On October 29, the Chinese American Service League (CASL) honored its founder and former President Bernie Wong, with the Lifetime Achievement Award during its annual Gala (presented virtually this year by the Sue Ling Gin Foundation). Starting with two

CASL virtual event emcee, Judy Hsu, ABC 7 Chicago.

donated desks and chairs in 1978, Bernie grew CASL into the largest social service agency in the Midwest dedicated to serving Chinese Americans and immigrants. Bernie has been named in numerous lists of influential people in Chicago and beyond, even being awarded the “Champion for Change” award at the White House in 2012 by President Barack Obama. The event was emceed by ABC-7's Judy Hsu (co-chair of CASL's Advisory Board) and included congratulatory videos from  Father Francis Li, Esther Wong, Kenneth Gunn (Acting Commissioner at Chicago Human Relations), Ling and Francis Leung, Pauline Pak, Lois Chan, Amy Wishnick and many others. Congrats Bernie for your lifetime of service!

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New York Social Diary's Blair Sabol casting her vote in Scottsdale.

I don't know if you read the New York Social Diary but it's one of my favorites, especially writer Blair Sabol. Her wit and wisdom is always spot on and I particularly loved her latest column that pretty much nails the way some of us might be feeling now (at least it does for me). "An endless fatigue has set in that is making us feel lax even with last week’s viral resurgence. We are losing interest, so our masks are slipping below our nose and our vigilance is faltering. It’s getting old and we are getting older. Remember last March when we were all in it to win it?  Nightly we banged pots in our cities from apartment windows for all medical first responders. That seems years ago. We’ve gone from cheers to jeers. We’ve morphed from impatience to rage to exhausted disinterest." But we're trying Blair! (Read her full column here).

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Swifty's Robert Caravaggi poolside in Palm Beach. (NYSD photo)

I found it interesting to learn that a few of NYC's hotspot restaurants are adding new locations in Palm Beach. Swifty's, our favorite, has completely decamped to PB where it has found a second life under the watchful eye of Robert Caravaggi (lunch and dinner poolside only for now). Le Bilboquet will be opening there soon and La Goulue Palm Beach has already opened for dinner only.

Chicago Star Media will host its first Streeterville Week, a community-focused event that will spotlight and support local businesses, all of which will be offering exclusive deals. The event was created to lift community spirits, boost morale and encourage residents and visitors to shop locally. Join them (and me) for a fun-filled kick-off event at Ogden Plaza (300 E. North Water) from 12:30 to 2 pm. A series of deals will be on offer during the week at gyms, hotels and other neighborhood businesses plus special menus at restaurants. For the kick-off, Marley Kayden of "Chicago's Best" on WGN-TV will serve as emcee, which will be live-streamed on the Chicago Star Media Facebook page and open to the public. The program, designed to support local artists and brighten this normally gray area of Streeterville, features rotating appearances from Chicago performers and street musicians, including actor Vikram Konkimalla — known for his role as Tiny Tim in The Goodman Theatre's "A Christmas Carol "— and Andrew David, a street performer whose powerful cover of “Hallelujah” in Chicago’s empty streets went viral this spring. To ensure the safety of attendees and performers during the walk-by event, masks are required, signs indicating social distancing will be placed in front of performers. Each performer will display a QR code to receive tips from passersby. Participating Streeterville Week restaurants will include Beatrix Market, Tallboy Taco, Pinstripes, Cupitol Coffee & Eatery, Labriola, Pinched on the River, Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company, Rosebud Steakhouse, Saigon Sisters and Yolk, among others. A complete list of businesses and offers can be found online here. Chicago Star Media, which publishes Streeterville News, New Eastside News and West Loop News, is dedicated to providing a positive, informative and community-building presence in the neighborhoods it serves. 

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The restaurants in and around Gibson's and LuxBar got a treat Wednesday night, courtesy of the Shannon Rovers who marched and played much to the delight of diners. Their intent was to "bring a smile to people's faces and a little happiness during these trying times." They succeeded.

 

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Kudos to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, whose boundless energy has now taken her into the pulpit! Recently, Maria delivered a stem-winding speech at Holy Trinity Church during Polish Heritage Month (watch it here) and she went head-to-head with radio talk show host Maze Jackson, where she discussed how taxpayers can protect their homes and find lost owed back taxes. She, and her office, analyzed 80 million pieces of data! #MariaforPresident

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SC co-chairs Tina Weller, Kristine Kinder, Mary Clare Moll and Mary Lasky.

Congrats to these beautiful women who were the co-chairs for The Service Club of Chicago's Phantom Gala, Mary Lasky, Tina Weller, Mary Claire Moll and Kristine Kinder.  This event is usually a very festive black-tie affair, but this year it was held virtually from October 12-22. The ladies/SC members helped raise much needed funds for the nonprofit's philanthropic grant program. (To donate and learn more, click here!) The organization's next event will be a virtual wine tasting tour "through Lombardy and Tuscany" on November 19. Full details here!

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Well, I've begun decorating for Christmas, don't judge. I think that, for this year especially, you can't start too

The Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula.

soon. I love the fact that WLIT-FM is already playing holiday tunes now too! I've got some wonderful ideas for where you can find some holiday cheer! The Holiday Shoppe at The Peninsula is like a Christmas jewel box in the old space where Pierrot Gourmet used to be at the corner of State and Superior. It's been brought to life by Kehoe Designs (Tom Kehoe) and his Green Market Garden. Inside, you'll find a stunning, designer-inspired selection of seasonal home decor and gifts. Also, watch for Green Market Garden coming to the Lakeshore East, Lakeview and West Loop neighborhoods with a selection of indoor and outdoor trees, plants, flowers and seasonal arrangements. (Details here!)

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Another wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit is a family-friendly viewing of Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish-The Musical, which will be available to stream November 27--December 27. Adding to the fun is the availability of two immersive Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Party in a Box options, ranging in price from $45-$60 which will contain items inspired by the production-- a copy of the book, a keepsake ornament, Eleanor's own stationary and pencil for letters to Santa, holiday hats, cookie cutter with recipe card, Twinkle's reindeer ring toss game and so much more! Denise McGowan Tracy, executive producer, said, "Our wish is to keep the magic of the holidays sparkling in the eyes of children no matter what challenges we face this year." The musical tells the story of a rag doll named Eleanor who lives in the magical world of the North Pole. Despite her love for her family there, she is wishing for something very special and writes a letter to Santa. And so the adventure begins! Ho! Ho! Ho! (Details here!)

  

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DMen Tap will keep Christkindlmarket's beloved tradition alive this year!

As we now know, the Christkindlmarket will be held online this year (see website here, through Dec. 31), but you can still get the experience thanks to DMen Tap, an Avondale restaurant that will offer a similar experience with traditional German food, sipping hot drinks from one of the festival's signature mugs and even a photo backdrop for Insta pics. Starting November

DMen Tap's food truck.

27 (and running through Christmas Eve), DMen Tap's food truck will be in front of the restaurant at 2849 W. Belmont Ave. People will be able to walk up and grab hot cocoa, cider, bratwursts, schnitzel sandwiches,

The traditional Christkindlmarket mugs will be for sale too!

pretzels and raclette cheese sandwiches — food and drinks traditionally found at Christkindlmarket. Gluhwein, or mulled wine, will be available for carryout from the bar inside. The DMen Tap crew will also sell Christkindlmarket mugs from past years, which have become a hot-ticket item. A photo backdrop will be set up so people can take photos with their mugs, also a tradition at Christkindlmarket. With the pop-up, the owners of DMen Tap are looking to keep the holiday tradition alive and bring in revenue during the pandemic, which has restaurants and bars across Chicago struggling to survive. What a great idea! I just can't wait!

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With Derrick Taylor and Santa.

A BIG holiday pop-up experience, "FA, LA, LA",  will be coming to Taylor & Co. Events (Derrick Taylor, 2819 W. Montrose) on Tuesday, December 1....think Santa granting wishes, Christmas decor galore including a 20' tree, professional photo opps, wreath-making classes, a warehouse sale and so much more! Check out their website for all the details here. In the meantime, enjoy this video of the work in progress!  

 

 

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PAWS Chicago virtual Fur Ball co-chairs Phillip Emigh, Angie DeMars and Bruce Haas.

Join PAWS Chicago in your best black-tie attire from your home on Friday, November 13 at 7:45pm for a virtual FUR BALL program

PAWS Chicago's virtual Fur Ball will be November13, 7:45 pm.

that will help PAWS raise important life-saving funds so they can save more homeless dogs and cats! The program will feature a live auction, a Bid to Save Lives mission moment, stories of our Adoptable Pets and music by Maggie Speaks!  Congrats in advance to the event's adorable co-chairs Angie DeMars, Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas and Tinsley Mortimer.  (To register, please click here and make sure to check out the exciting auction items too!)

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One Tail at a Time, another beloved No-Kill rescue, will host its 12th annual Houndstooth Ball virtually on Friday, November 13, 6-9 pm. I'll miss not seeing these

Heather Owen, founder/ED One Tail at a Time.

adorable homeless dogs (and kittens) up close and personal but I hope you will consider supporting this wonderful shelter's life-saving efforts by tuning in for FREE here! (Be sure to check out their at-home Celebration Kits too, ranging in price from $35--$1000!) Pet-loving philanthropists will be coming together to celebrate the record-breaking 1,500 animals saved this year by OTAT! Executive director Heather Owen said, "The outpouring of support One Tail at a Time and homeless pets have received in this pandemic has been nothing short of remarkable. Chicago rallied and opened their homes and hearts to hundreds of dogs during quarantine, enabling us to save more lives than ever before."

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Newly married Jennifer N. Pritzker and Erin E. Solaro.

Huge congrats to Jennifer N. Pritzker and Erin E. Solaro who were married in a private ceremony in Chicago on October 31. Ms. Pritzker is President & CEO of Tawani Enterprises, Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Army, Retired, and Founder and Chairwoman of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library.  Ms. Solaro is currently employed as a sales executive for a medical device manufacturer. She is also the author of "Women in the Line of Fire" (Seal Press, 2006), and a veteran herself. Congrats, love wins! (And thanks for all you do in the community Jennifer!)

 

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The Doorstep Divas Caitlin Simone Buffa and Molly Callinan. 

The Doorstep Divas Chicago want to rock your holiday world! These two vocal dynamos have created a festive holiday show that will make you want to don your Santa hats ASAP! They're available to appear in your virtual gala videos; in person (socially distanced, of course); at holiday parties; ANY occasion-- live, in-person or pre-recorded, at your pleasure! Congrats to superstar singers/artists Molly Callinan and Caitlin Simone Buffa for always bringin' da joy! (Contact them here: [email protected]

 

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The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's "Wings to Cure" Gala will be virtual on Saturday, November 14 from 6-7:30 pm. You will hear from doctors, cancer survivors

Eleni Bousis, along with friends and supporters created HCRF, shown here with Dr. Leonidas Platanias, director Lurie Cancer Center.

and celebrity guests and have the chance to bid in spectacular live and silent auctions. HCRF's mission is to find and implement new treatments for cancer patients by promoting and supporting breakthrough cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. Over half of all men and one-third of all women in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetime. The Foundation's goal is to discover and implement new treatments in order to eliminate this dreaded disease and save lives.  (Once registered, a link to view the virtual event will be sent to you on the day of. Details here.)

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If reports are true that Pfizer has found a vaccine for Covid (that will be ready by the end of the month?!), our collective prayers have been answered! I know we probably won't go back to "normal." Quite frankly, I'm not even sure what this means anymore. I do miss all of our in-person events, that's a given, but I also miss the little things like lingering in bookstores (when I could find one) or spending hours wandering around the make-up section in a department store and actually TRYING THINGS ON. All the little things that I used to love to do seems like it happened in another lifetime, like living in the "Matrix." Wearing a mask takes away any joy anyway because, for some reason, when I'm

Bonnie Spurlock and Judy Tullman with hubbys Jim and Howard at a PAWS Chicago Beach Party.

wearing one I can't see, hear or think. I know people are edgy now and, in some cases, aimless not knowing what's going to happen next. Many are looking for anything to do just to keep busy...my friends Bonnie Spurlock and Judy Tullman find joy volunteering at PAWS Chicago. Now THAT is something truly

Just for fun.....

worthwhile. I'm keeping busy writing The Blog (thanks to all my new subscribers too!), writing for Chicago Now and pondering some possibilities. I had a blast hosting the Apparel Industry Board Foundation's Rev Up event and would like to do more of that. I'd also like to discuss my events and what's going on in Chicago on some media outlets. I'm looking forward to a new venture with Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and videographer Troy Mairs that will be fun and fulfilling. In every case, I will continue to be a voice for Chicago, its charities, its happenings and whatever else is exciting and makes our city shine. Yes, despite Covid, the future is looking very bright. I can't wait to see what's around the next corner, hopefully a cure!

Stay safe and sane out there!

Love,

Candace

[email protected]

P.S. Animals saving animals......

 

I'M SNOW IN LOVE WITH YOU CHICAGO!

JEAN BANCHET AWARDS; A "CANDID" NIGHT AT THE AMERICAN WRITERS MUSEUM; WOODY'S WINTER WARM-UP; EBONY POWER 100 GALA; BETH CELEBRATES 20; LESLIE GIVE US MUSEUM ACCESS; CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION NABS BRENDA; GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN; MEALS ON WHEELS CELEBRITY CHEF BALL; CATHOLIC CHARITIES SPIRIT OF ST. NICK BALL; CHICAGO UNITED'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY; REPLAY POPS UP FOR GOT FANS; BEACH CHICAGO; EVENING IN BLOOM FOR CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; PATRICK J. RYAN'S BOXING FOR CHARITY; BEAR TIE BALL 2019; VIVICA STARS AT GIGI'S PLAYHOUSE GALA; A VERY SPECIAL GERBER SPOKESBABY; CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE'S "SWEETS FOR SIGHT"; STYLE RIVALS FASHION SHOW COMPETITION; HOUSEWARES CARES CHARITY GALA; A CHAT WITH AEWHEELHOUSE; VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Restaurant of the Year-George Troiss (2nd from right) with Mary Kay Bonoma (Executive VP, Illinois Restaurant Association); Sergio Angel and Michael Lachowicz, Kevin Boehm (Co-founder Boka Restaurant Group).

Over 400 culinary enthusiasts gathered at Venue Six10 for the 2019 Jean Banchet Awards on January 17. Presented by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence are the only Chicago-based awards ceremony that

Pizzeria Bebu-Best Neighborhood Restaurant

recognize culinary originality and talent throughout the region. Guests were greeted with a champagne reception followed by the award ceremony hosted by Michael Muser, former partner and general manager at Grace.

Chef of the Year Jason Hammel (R) with presenter Andrew Zimmerman.

A selection of award winners included Restaurant of the Year, Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Best New Restaurant, Best Service, and a new category this year, Best Counter Service. During the ceremony, legendary chef and restaurateur Michael Foley was awarded the Banchet Culinary Achievement Award. (Following the Banchet Awards, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host the Grand Chef’s Experience at

S.K.Y.--Best New Restaurant

the Field Museum on February 1, where all nominated restaurants will be honored and event attendees will be treated to tastings from top chefs in Chicago’s culinary scene. Full Winners List: Restaurant of the Year-- George Trois/ Chef of the Year--Jason Hammel (Lula Café, Marisol)/ Rising Chef of the Year--Alisha Elenz (mfk. restaurant)/ Best Chef-de-Cuisine--Ryan Pfeiffer (Blackbird)/ Pastry Chef of the Year--Nicole Guini

Best Bar--Moody Toungue (Jeremy Cohn and Jared Rubin)

(Blackbird, Avec)/ Rising Pastry Chef of the Year--Elaine Townsend (Fat Rice)/ Best Neighborhood Restaurant--Pizzeria Bebu/  Best Heritage Restaurant--A Place by DAMAO/ Best New Restaurant--S.K.Y./ Best Sommelier--Jill Gubesch (Frontera Grill, Topolobampo, Leña Brava)/ Best Mixologist--Stephanie Andrews (Billy Sunday)/ Best

Nicole Guini--Pastry Chef of the Year

Restaurant Design--Pacific Standard Time/ Best Service--Temporis/ Best Counter Service--Calumet Fisheries/  Best Bar--Moody Tongue. ----The Jean Banchet Panel consists of Chicago's

Best Restaurant Design--Pacific Standard Time (Donnie Madia)

foremost food and beverage journalists, photographers and elite gastronomes. The panel gathers throughout the year to discuss, compare, and contrast experiences at a variety of culinary establishments. They are required to dine and drink at as many different places as possible throughout the year -- from hot dogs to fine dining and everything in between. No members of the Jean Banchet Panel are affiliated with any of Chicagoland's restaurants or bars. (Photos by Katie Coyle)

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"Getting Candid with Candace" with Laura Schwartz.

What an honor to be spotlighted at the American Writers Museum and what a thrill to be interviewed by the one-woman-dynamo Laura Schwartz for the January 24 "Getting Candid with Candace" benefit! Laura is an author, public speaker, ex-President Clinton staffer, TV contributor and more--in short, a powerhouse

Eli's Cheesecake's Marc and Maureen Schulman with adorable branded dessert dippers for the party!

for sure! Thank you for making me look good Miss Laura! The Museum is such a wonder too, a cultural jewel located on the 2nd floor of the 180 N. Michigan building. Fairly new, it's the first museum solely devoted to celebrating

With Laurie Dimakos, David Lawlor, Chuck, Betsy Shepherd, Michael Caputo and John Walcher.

American writers and their works. It's a must-see! Even though it was freezing outside, it was warm and cozy inside with an SRO crowd. My Playboy Bunny costume (the one appraised on the Antiques Roadshow)

Dennis and Judy Schwartz, Laura Schwartz, Andrea Stryker and Dr. Steve Stryker.

was displayed and it tickled me to see so many people posing beside it. All those many years ago when I was jumping in and out of it, who could've known it would be such an iconic symbol of the much

With Chicago Tribune's Rick Kogan and Amy Carr, and Laura Schwartz.

loved Playboy brand? I was so pleased and happy to see so many familiar faces in the crowd too like Tracey Tarantino, Mary Pat Burns, Jean Antoniou, Judi Kalata (who I was a

Museum board member Olivia Luk Bedi.

Bunny with at the Chicago Playboy Club), Michael Caputo, Mark Olley, Helen Melchior, Pierre Lockett, Laurie Dimakos, Renata Block, Jolanta Reuge, Stacy Kolios and Alicia Skruba (my 900 Shops friends), David Murga, David Lawlor (the man who makes this blog possible), Rhonda Sanderson with

Tracey Tarantino DiBuono with Joey Alissa Berman

Mallory (Marc Jacobs), Sanjay Sharma, John P. Walcher, Sandy Golub, Nicki Fioretti, Betsy Shepherd, Mike Foran, Marie Mancuso and Marcos Cruz, Tina Koegel, Wendy Krimins, Amy Carr, Rick Kogan and his Kate Murray, Laura's darling family (mom Judy, dad Dennis, sister

Michael Caputo and Jean Antoniou

Andrea Stryker and brother-in-law Dr. Steve Stryker), Patricia Mocco, Betty Blair, Rita Ryan, Jennifer Kelly, Elizabeth Shepherd, Kim Shepherd, Cheryl Hall, Heather Grove, Jan Kostner, Samantha Lera, Naomi Hoover, Liesl McDonald, Anna Zaltz, Carinne Nicosia, David Gaudet and Ronnie Brooks, Bill Natale, Cyndi Rosenberg, Molly Starnes and so

With Judi Kalata Altiere, Rhonda Sanderson and Mallory

many more. Before the convo began, guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before being seated. Then, Eli's Cheesecake party dippers were served branded in white icing with "Candid Candace" and a Playboy Bunny logo on top. They were so cute and, as we all know, it's not a real party unless Eli's is there! (Love and thanks to

John Walcher, Sue Wyderka, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel and Andrea Schwartz.

Maureen and Marc Schulman, not only for this special treat but for coming out in the cold to support me.)  The convo opened with a short video created by Josh Bowen of Kurtis Productions (see it

Pierre Lockett, Stacy Kolios, Alicia Skruba and David Murga.

here) It was a "This is Your Life" kind of video that covered everything from an early clip of me as a Bunny to my recent BBC documentary with Harry Potter star Miriam Margolyes. Laura had copious notes and we talked about

Renata Block and Jolanta Reuge

EVERYTHING! Since she is soon-to-be-married (to the beautiful Susan Santiago), there was even some marriage advice thrown in for good measure. The crowd asked great questions too and the hour flew by. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did. It was a night I'll never forget. Right

Mark Olley, Karri Kartes, Nicki Fioretti.

now, the Museum is hosting an exciting exhibit titled "Bob Dylan: Electric" which will be running through April 30. The exhibit spotlights his writing – song, poetry, and prose – between his 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance and 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature. Items on display include Dylan’s personal

Marie Mancuso and Marcos Cruz

copy of The Catcher in the Rye and an original 1965 Newport Folk Festival program autographed by Dylan. Also included are original pages from the film script of the 1967 Bob Dylan documentary

The always adorable Sandy Golub.

Don’t Look Back and Dylan’s collection of prose and poetry Tarantula. The exhibit’s keystone piece is the electric guitar Bob Dylan played at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. The performance, referred to as “The Newport Incident," is his first ever live performance with a full, electric band and marked a dramatic shift in his writing and popularity. The guitar, a 1964 brown

Michael Foster and friend.

sunburst Fender Stratocaster, was discovered in 2012 by the family of an airline pilot who flew Bob Dylan from Newport Folk Festival and sold for nearly $1 million a year later. It was the highest price ever paid for a guitar at auction. (The guitar is on loan

Cyndi Roppolo Rosenberg, Alicia Skruba and David Murga.

from the collection of James S. Irsay). So, as you can see, there is magic in every nook and cranny at this museum so I hope you will visit! (Discover more about it and sign up here!) It's a perfect spot for private events too! Special thanks to Museum board

Molly Starnes Laura Schwartz, Samantha Lera, Lauren Reilly Schwartz.

member Olivia Luk Bedi who is also an attorney with Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg. She was responsible for giving me this exciting opportunity! She recently appeared as the cover story feature for the magazine Super Lawyers! Congrats and thank you so much Olivia! Can't wait to come back and soak it all in! See more photos by MILA SAMOKHINA here: Photo Gallery

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Kerry and Sarah Wood

Sarah and Kerry Wood hit another home run at their 8th annual Woody's Winter Warm-Up! Everywhere you looked, there was a famous baseball or media star or a cool celebrity like John Cusack and Bonnie Hunt. Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch was packed with over 400 fans who turned out to support this much loved event that benefits the Wood Family Foundation, a non-profit that provides programs and services for CPS students (grades 4-8) in under-served communities. The night began with a VIP reception where players could chill after they arrived from the Cubs Convention and before the madness and fun began. The evening

Ryan Dempster and Grant DePorter

included exciting silent and live auctions, live music by the Suburban Cowboys, fabulous food buffets and lotsa celebrity bartending. Throughout the night, stars competed for tips behind the bar with all

John Cusack and Bonnie Hunt

the proceeds (tips) benefiting the charity. I spied Cubs players Ian Happ, Albert Almora, Kyle Schwarber, David Bote, Rowan Wick and Adbert Alzolay. Former Cubs in attendance included Randy Hundley, Jim Bullinger, Bobby Dernier, Todd Hanley, Bill Madlock, Mike Remlinger, Randy Wells,

Windy City Live's Ryan Chiaverini sings "Eye of the Tiger" with Survivor founder Jim Peterik!

Kyle Farnsworth, Augie Ojeda and Ryan Dempster. More star power was provided by local media personalities Stylz & Roman, Ryan Baker, Dionne Miller, Ryan Chiaverini, Kelly

The gang's all here! Lisa Fielding and Michelle Mekky with friends.

Crull, Lisa Fielding, Brendan Greeley, Melissa McGurren, Danny Parkins, Joe Soto, Sarah Spain and Pat Tomasulo. Besides Cusack and Hunt, other actors on hand included Thomas Ian Nicholas, Mickey O'Sullivan, Rusty Schwimmer and Robyn

Israel Idonije and Sarah Wood.

Coffin. This night was definitely a head-spinner with all the excitement! Partygoers went wild when Survivor founder Jim Peterik took the stage to sing his classic hit "Eye of the Tiger" (made famous as the Rocky III theme) with Windy City Live's Ryan Chiaverini. And

Plain White T's Tom Higgenson sings "Hey Delilah" with the Suburban Cowboys band.

the fun didn't end there as the lead singer for the Plain White T's Tom Higgenson jumped onstage to sing his band's Grammy nominated song "Hey, Delilah" accompanied by Kyle Schwarber! I was thrilled to attend another successful fundraiser, that brought in over $170,000, for the foundation's youth programs and services, including its Pitch In program that provides mentorship for students at Richard Yates Elementary School and the Lawndale Community Academy. See more fun coverage here in the Chicago Tribune! (Photos by Kenny Kim, Juan Martinez) You can help Pitch In by clicking here!

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Ebony Media Operations Chairman Emeritus Linda Johnson Rice

Some of Hollywood's biggest names from the film and television worlds joined more than 600 guests to celebrate community champions and industry titans from across the country at the annual EBONY Power 100 Gala at the Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles. Presented by Nationwide, the annual EBONY Power 100 List recognizes the most influential and inspiring individuals from a broad spectrum of industry genres, across eight categories: Community Crusaders, Disruptors, Entertainment & Arts, Entrepreneurs, Innovators, MVPs, Power Players and the coveted Women Up category. Hosted by actor/comedian Chris Tucker, the star-studded spectacle was attended

Susan Kelechi Watson and Melanie Liburd-This is Us

by the who's who in sports, entertainment, business, philanthropy, politics and social activism. Notable celebrities and high-profile personalities who attended included David Oyelowo (Selma), Kat Graham (Vampire Diaries), Ne-Yo (singer), Chris Tucker (actor/comedian), Susan Kelechi Watson (This Is Us), Melanie Liburd (This Is Us), Bianca Lawson and Kofi Siriboe (Queen Sugar)

Chris Tucker, Susan Kelechi Watson

Dyllón Burnside, Hailie Sahar, Indya Moore and Steven Canals (Pose), Debra Lee (former CEO of BET), Ethiopia Habtemariam (Motown president), J.B. Smoove (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Sugar Ray Leonard (legendary boxer), Cedric Yarborough (actor), Ernie Hudson (actor), Cari Champion (ESPN), Mayor Andrew Gillum (Tallahassee, Florida), Mayor London Breed (San Francisco) and Mayor Stephen Benjamin (Columbia, South Carolina), Saweetie (singer), Hayley Law (actress), Marque Richardson (Dear White People), Israel Houghton (singer) and Adrienne Houghton (TV

Indya Moore and Shaun Ross

personality) Mehgan James (actress), Don Benjamin (model/musician), Amin Joseph (actor), Eva Marcille (actress/model), Deborah Ayorinde (actress), Courtney Kemp (co-creator, Power) and Symone Sanders (CNN), among others. Celebrity couples in attendance included Yolanda Adams (gospel singer), who attended on the arm of honoree Titus O’Neil (WWE star), and Cynthia Bailey (actress/model) joined beau Mike Hill (Fox Sports). "This year's gala was the most memorable to-date," said EBONY Media Operations CEO Michael Gibson. "We honored the most eclectic group of outstanding individuals and prolific leaders who

James Davis performs

represent excellence in their respective fields." Following the introduction of actor/host Tucker,  remarks were given by EBONY Media Operations Chairman Emeritus Linda Johnson Rice with Angela Bretz introducing a heartfelt video about the legacy of EBONY Power 100. The EBONY Chairman's Award was presented to former BET Chairman and CEO Debra Lee. Recording artist Ne-Yo performed.  

Ne-Yo performs

(The complete 2018 EBONY Power 100 List can be viewed by clicking here! ) The gala was hosted by EBONY Foundation and benefited the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.

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Beth Silverman and the Chicago Tribune theater critic Chris Jones

Beth Silverman and her PR firm, The Silverman Group, celebrated their 20th anniversary in grand style at City Winery on January 10. The room was packed with friends, clients, media cohorts and more, all to celebrate this much loved lady and her fabulous firm. From humble beginnings to being a powerhouse now,

The Silverman Group's (TSG) 20th anniversary kickoff party-jam packed!

Beth has helped some of the city's most notable clients expand and enrich their public profiles. Beth delivered a short speech, thanking her many well wishers, before guests resumed

Colleen Flanigan, Judie Green, Joan Colmar and Jean de St. Aubin

mixing and mingling. Seen on the scene were DCASE Commissioner Mark Kelly, Chris Jones (Chicago Tribune theater

Commissioner Mark Kelly and Elizabeth Neukirch

critic), Gillian Darlow (Polk Bros. Foundation), Joan Colmar with fiance Mitchell Sabshon, Helen Melchior, Dr. Lauren Streicher and hubby Jason Brett, Janet Carl Smith and Mel Smith, Phil Lumpkin and Bill Tedford, Ken Norgan, Janet Davies (ABC7), Hedy Weiss (WTTW TV), Judie Green (Auditorium Theatre), Ken Norgan, Carrie Lannon, Nick Harkin, Michael Foster, Lisa Middleton (Lyric

Margaret O'Connor, Morgan Harris, Laura Schwartz and Dr. Michael O'Meara

Opera), Jamey Lundblad (DCASE) and Bill Melamed (Chicago Humanities Festival), Margaret O’Connor and Michael O'Meara, Laura Schwartz, Dawn Stanislaw (Visceral Dance), John Walcher (Toomey Auctions), David Zivan (Modern Luxury), Frank Sennett (Crain’s Chicago Business) and Denise Schneider (Goodman Theatre). It was a feel good night celebrating Silverman Group's 20 successful years! Kudos to all! (Photos by Robin Subar)

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the new Gerber Spokesbaby!

Gerber's newest Spokesbaby is Lucas Warren, a 1-year-old from Dalton, Georgia who is the first child with Down syndrome to be named a Gerber baby since the contest's start in 2010. "He's very outgoing and never meets a stranger," Lucas's mom, Cortney said. "He loves to play, loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh." Cortney Warren said she entered the contest on a whim after a relative pointed out an ad seeking submissions. After posting a photo of Lucas on Instagram using the contest's hashtag, Cortney and her husband Jason received the news that their son had been chosen from more than 140,000 entries to be the 2018 Gerber Spokesbaby. Just love this! Can't wait to see more images of darling baby Lucas!

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Leslie Mueller at the Museum of Science and Industry

Huge congrats to Chicago native Leslie Mueller who is the host and executive producer of Museum Access, a new television show on PBS that was recently picked up by Amazon Prime! Leslie grew up in Deerfield, graduated from Deerfield High School and began her training at the Art Institute of Chicago at the age of 13. Season 1, which is 10 half-hour episodes, was filmed and aired in 2018. Several of the museums Leslie visited are in Chicago. Season 2 (also 10 episodes) is completed and has started airing in

Leslie Mueller at the MET

various markets throughout the country. She loves what she does, is super passionate about museums and sharing them with the world and it shows!  The series, produced and hosted by Mueller and Museum Access Media, takes

Leslie Mueller at the Field Museum

viewers behind-the-scenes at some of the country’s top museums. Each 30-minute episode offers exciting stories, in-depth conversations with experts and fascinating footage in areas that museum guests don’t have the opportunity to see. I love, love, love this concept and can't wait to check it out!

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Brenda Langstraat, the new president of the Chicago Public Library Foundation

Bob Wislow, Chicago Public Library Foundation chairman, shared the exciting news that the much loved Brenda Langstraat will be the new President!  "Brenda is a highly experienced Chicago CEO and fundraiser whose personal and professional values align perfectly with our Foundation’s and the Library’s commitment to 'the freedom to read, to learn, to discover,'" said Wislow. Brenda's 20-year career serving Chicago based organizations has been driven by the belief that creating empowered communities of learners will transform lives and support the advancement of our city’s neighborhoods. She joins the Foundation after seven years of serving as CEO of Working in the Schools (WITS), the largest literacy organization that collaborates with Chicago Public Schools (CPS).  Congrats with love Brenda!

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RIP Randy Crumpton

I was so very sad to learn of the passing of Chicago's own Randy Crumpton. "He was one of Chicago's premier socialite-connectors, particularly for the African American community," said friend James Ramos. I would always see Randy at worthy charity events around town--he was always a great supporter and always had a smile on his face. Friend Ken Bennett, father of Chance the Rapper, called him a "house head." He was also a great friend of Frankie Knuckles, the late deejay dubbed the godfather of house music. Frankie Knuckles Foundation founder Frederick Dunson was a dear, dear friend and I had a lot of fun with them both at the last benefit. Film Festival founder Michael Kutza recalled him as a "reliable, calm presence." An attorney, Randy grew up in Roseland and attended law school at the University of Iowa. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. RIP dear Randy.

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More sad news to report, the Voice of Fashion, Susan Glick, has left us way too soon. She was an intricate part of the fabric of Chicago's fashion community. The Apparel Industry Board remembers her as "the common thread and glue that holds us together." She was a tough professional who knew the business like no other. RIP Susan.

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Ken Meyer, Alpana Singh, Alexa and Eric Williams

Meals on Wheels Chicago celebrated the 30th anniversary of their signature fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Ball at Morgan Manufacturing on November 9. WTTW Check Please! host and restaurateur Alpana Singh served as honorary chair

Shilpa Desai, Anamika Das, Archana Patel, Jigna Patel

and MC for the event that featured chefs Cory Morris (Boleo), Devon Quinn (Eden), Paul Virant (Vie/Vistro), Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven), and many more. The Ball

Nude Due with steak appetizer

included two parties: VIP Chef’s Table and the Chef’s Tasting Party. The VIP Chef’s Table began at 6 p.m. with a pre-event cocktail reception, followed by an intimate dining experience. Seated in small clusters, each group was served by three chefs and a mixologist and enjoyed a six-course dinner, an array of pastry specialties and a live auction. The VIP Chef’s Table ticket holders enjoyed entry to the Chef’s Tasting Party where there was a dine-around of over 40 chef and cocktail stations, a raffle, silent auction and dancing. Proceeds from the event supported Meals on Wheels Chicago's mission to promote independence for Chicago seniors and individuals with disabilities through meal delivery. (Photos by Ken Carl and @tableanddish)

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Chairs Michael and Claire O'Grady, Monsignor Cardinal Blase Cupich and vice-chairs Rhonda and Scott Swanson.

Catholic Charities hosted its 29^th Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball to benefit the children served by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago on December 7. Held at the Hilton Chicago, more than 1,300 guests attended this black tie event featuring entertainment by the Ken Arlen Orchestra. Donations

Catherine and Charles Walgreen, Father Michael Gzresik

of new, unwrapped children’s toys and gifts were accepted at the entrance for distribution through Catholic Charities. The gala was hosted by Most Reverend Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, and Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland, President of Catholic Charities, along with

Katie and Marty Bredemann

chair couple Mr. and Mrs. Scott Swanson and vice chair couple Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Castellini. “Each year, more than 115,000 children are supported by Catholic Charities programs. We would not be able to provide quality after-school care, counseling services, housing for families and so much more without the support that is shown at the annual Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball,” said Monsignor Boland. “This past year we were able to expand our counseling services to increase support to children impacted by the trauma of

Matt Doyle, Amy Goldsmith

violence, which can have devastating lasting effects.” Proceeds from the event benefited the children served by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago and its child development centers, after-school programs, counseling services, and teen parenting centers. The Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball celebrates the life of Saint Nicholas, a fourth century bishop, and the generosity and care towards children that was illustrated during his lifetime, becoming a model for Santa Clause. Each year on December 6^th, his feast is commemorated all over the world.

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Chicago United's CEO/Pres. Gloria Castillo presents inaugural Bridge Compass Awards

Chicago United’ celebrated its 50^th Anniversary Gala at the Hilton Chicago to celebrate the organization’s decades long legacy of achieving parity in economic opportunity by advancing multiracial leadership, corporate governance, executive level management and business diversity. At the gala,

Gloria Castillo with John Robak, Anne Pragaggiore and John Rogers.

winners of the first-ever Bridge Compass Award were announced. This award honors organizations that have committed to industry change through active and effective programs to advance multiracial leadership. Chicago United CEO and President Gloria Castillo presented the award to representatives of CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, the Financial Services Pipeline (FSP) Initiative and Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council (IUBDC).

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Just because the holidays are over, doesn't mean pop-up bars are kaput too! Replay Lincoln Park is now capitalizing on Game of Thrones’ final TV season which releases in April, according to Eater Chicago. Management will decorate its arcade bar in homage to the HBO fantasy drama and they’ll sell GoT beer from Brewery Ommegang. The Game of Thrones pop-up starts on February 1 at Replay, 2833 N. Sheffield

Great Insta Opps coming to Replay Lincoln Park for GOT fans!

Avenue. A news release claims visitors will be able to explore the seven kingdoms from the TV show based on a series of books by George R.R. Martin. Replay will commemorate Game of Thrones’ fans favorite episodes including The Red Wedding. Management is even promising some sort of jousting competition. The space should be Instagram friendly so customers could take photos next to the show’s famous Iron Throne and other props. A release warns of “White Walkers” and mentions dragons. There’s also trivia nights and specialty drinks including “Dothaquiri.” Admission is free, but unlike past pop-ups, customers have another option if they want to pay $20. The VIP package lets them cut lines for photos, “express” entry, a pint of mead of beer in a souvenir goblet, and a commemorative pin or print. OMG! I just can't wait! Thanks for the tip Eater Chicago!

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Who isn't ready for spring?! Well, here's a remedy! The Chicago Flower & Garden Show is right around the corner starting with Evening in Bloom, the opening

Hort Couture fashion show will be the highlight of the Evening in Bloom event

night celebration, on Tuesday, March 19. The event will benefit Bernie's Book Bank, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Get Growing Foundation. I'm thrilled to return as emcee of Hort Couture, the out-of-this-world floral fashion show showcasing the best of the best in fashion and floral design! Get tickets, more info here!

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Go ringside and wear your Friday night best for a great cause! The Patrick J. Ryan Main Event & Casino Night returns on February 1 to Drury Lane in Oak Brook. Hosted by the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the event will support the LOSS Program for Children and Youth (kids who have lost a loved one to suicide). For tickets, more info, click here!

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I love the theme for this year's Bear Tie Ball benefiting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation! "Candyland," co-chaired by Kristine Farra and Michael Palumbo, will be held on Sat., March 2 at the UIC Forum. For tix/info, click here!

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Stunning actress Vivica A. Fox will host this year's GiGi's Playhouse - Chicago Gala, "i have a Voice," on Sat., Feb. 2 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel! The event supports Gigi's Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers which provide FREE life-changing programming for children and adults with Down syndrome. For tickets/more info, click here!

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The Chicago Lighthouse Junior Board will host "Sweets for Sight" on Thursday, February 7 at Carnivale. The event will benefit Lighthouse programs for children who are blind or visually impaired. For tickets, more info, click here!

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Long, long ago in a photo shoot far, far away STYLE.RIVALS gave talented stylists from across the Chicagoland area an opportunity to show up and show out their fiercest skills on a battle stage like no other! Join in and witness the 3rd Annual STYLE.RIVALS Fashion Show Competition on Friday, April 5 at Trigger Chicago (2810 W. Addison). Watch as some of the mid-west's best fashion stylists battle it out to be crowned the 3rd Annual STYLE.RIVALS Fashion Champion. A runway competition will decide the winners! A portion of the tickets sales will benefit Smarty Pants are Leaders, a nonprofit that empowers youth by building self-confidence. (I'm thrilled to return as a judge!) For tickets, more info, click here!

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The Housewares Charity Foundation will host its annual Housewares Cares Charity Gala on Monday, March 4, in Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom. The mission of the Foundation is to raise funds for designated charities and help unite and promote the philanthropic image of the housewares industry. In a collaborative effort among industry manufacturers, retailers and allied industry partners, the Foundation hosts this annual charitable dinner that coincides with the International Home + Housewares Show with a goal to raise funds for charities, unite its industry and honor its leaders. For tickets, more info, click here!

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Beach Chicago at Navy Pier

We had the BEST time at Beach Chicago, a free interactive public art installation on display now through February 3 in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier! Presented in partnership with EXPO CHICAGO and

Life's a BEACH at Navy Pier!

created by Snarkitecture, the installation transforms the Pier's 18,000-square-foot space into an indoor beach, complete with lounge chairs, lifeguard chairs, umbrellas, inflatables and signage that mimic the sensation of a day at the Beach. Don't miss it and no sun-screen required!

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With Wheelhouse hosts Mo Dadkhah and John Lally (R) and Shopping Girl's Lora LaPratt

Love and thanks to AE Wheelhouse, a podcast spotlighting "ambitious entrepreneurs"! I had a great time discussing a variety of topics and chatting with Lora LaPratt, a super cool personal stylist, and Wheelhouse hosts Mo Dadkhah and John Lally. Lora was a delight and had so many great styling tips! Check her out at Shopping Girl XOXO! (The segment can be seen here.)

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Look for Candid Candace in the Tribune's new LIFE+TRAVEL section!

I hoped you liked the new, improved Life+Travel section that debuted Sunday in the Chicago Tribune! This new section replaces the smaller formatted Life+Style section! Look for your favorites, like Candid Candace (wink, wink), Heidi Steven's Balancing Act, Answer Angel Ellen, Rick Steves and so much more! Check it out every Sunday (and see it here!) and let me know what you think!

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That's it for this week! Hope you're staying warm! If you have pets, please check out these cold weather tips from the American Humane Society and keep your furry friends safe!

Love, as always,

Candace
[email protected]

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

CHICAGO LIGHTS: AN ART EXHIBIT THAT'S ALL HEART

ILLUMINATE 900 SPARKLES ON THE MAG MILE; GATEWAY FOR CANCER RESEARCH'S CURES GALA; LSCRF'S FALL BENEFIT LUNCHEON; YOUNG AT HEART'S SILVER PAWS GALA; FRIENDS OF LA RABIDA CELEBRATION; WINGS HOSTS CONDOLEEZZA RICE AT ANNUAL LUNCHEON; PARTYSLATE CELEBRATES 3; A WALK FOR THE BEAR; BEST HOLIDAY POP-UP BARS; 3ARTS AWARDS CELEBRATION; SHERYL AND JOE MAKE IT OFFICIAL; CHRISTMAS DECORATING; A JORDAN THANKSGIVING; HEARTWARMING VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a dream come true for acclaimed British photographer Abigail Zoe Martin when her passion project, Chicago Lights, presented in collaboration with White Color Productions and Agency H5, opened at the Zhou B Art Center on Friday, November 16. Since Abigail moved here from London three years ago, with Leonardo (her handsome financial executive husband) and two beautiful teenage children, she has been quietly photographing people of interest. It began as a way to get to know the city and its people better but it grew into something much, much bigger. On her blog (chicagostoriesblog.com), before she put the exhibition together, she said she wanted to "create a space where portraits and quotes from people of all colors, economic levels, religions and ethnicities stand side by side, expressing their common humanity in a dignified way, a show about joy and the things we love." Following the night of the audio/visual exhibition of 81 notable and some not so notable Chicagoans, she expressed herself this way. "I am just coming up for air after that sparkly and magical evening. The sheer scale and diversity of the event was so very exciting. The friendliness was amazing. All sorts of people were chatting to each other and it was so comfortable. It was exhilarating and felt so loving. I'm so thrilled that the idea of kindness and community permeated the room and that everyone felt it. That for me is a perfect world."  I was fortunate to have been photographed by Abigail back in August....I was hoping to either shoot in Washington Park or in the gardens in front of our building but the weather didn't cooperate so we shot it in the lobby of my building. Rooney was just as happy being inside since he didn't want his little top hat to get wet. Abigail is a master at deep diving into people's characters. After she left, I felt like I'd been through a great therapy session. She knows bull-sh_t when she sees it which is why it was such an honor to have my photo included with so many wonderful personalities like celebrity chef Jamie Laurita, Israel Idonije, Nan Giordano and her wonderful Giordano Dance Chicago dancers, Bela Gandhi, Tarrah Cooper, CM Punk, Chef Curtis Duffy, Chef Bruno Abate, Kathleen Kenahan Henson (whose H5 Agency helped produce the event), Trisha Rooney, Tim Kazurinsky, the Zhou B brothers (ShanZuo ZhouShi and DaHuang ZhouShi), Lieutenant Governor-elect Juliana Stratton, Duchess Darling Shear (cabaret star who performed two dramatic numbers), Kiara Lanier (whose songs made everyone weep with joy), Father Michael Pfleger, Secretary of State Jesse White, Dr. Lauren Streicher and her husband Jason Brett,  Essence Walker, Dr. Theri Raby, JoJo Baby, the Mayor and so many more. There were names you recognized and those you didn't--they included tattoo artists, college students, small business owners, bartenders, a professional wrestler, a professor, a beekeeper, a firefighter, a doorman and more. The show is described as a raw unfiltered conversation with Chicagoans that illuminates the incredible kindness Martin found. Each photograph and conversation represents the :ecelectic and diverse cross-section of people: Martin met, all with :a wonderful inner light and a common thread of integrity, compassion and empathy." One of my favorites, Liz Dozier, former educator and star of the CNN series "Chicagoland," posed for her photograph on the front porch of a favorite student who died due to senseless gang/gun violence. The neighborhood was so dangerous, she had to have spotters on the street on the lookout. The night was filled with laughter, new connections, lots of Iphone photos, wine from Cream Wine Company, cocktails from CH Distillery, light bites from LM Catering and pizza from Connie's (thanks to Nina Mariano). Thank you Abigail for including me in this incredible exhibition. Every photo comes with an inspiring sound-bite from Abigail's interview with each subject, to hear any or all of the comments, click here and to read Rick Kogan's wonderful Tribune column about the installation and Abigail's amazing process, click here!  On Abigail's Insta-feed, she summed the show up this way, "The main ingredients of this show are kindness and integrity. Let's spread as much of that as we can around the world and create some ripples." For sure, she achieved her goal and created not just ripples, but an entire ocean of kindness. (A coffee table book is in the works and photographs are available for sale at [email protected]) (Come to the closing night party for the book at Zhou B Art Center on Jan. 8 and view the photos for the last time!)

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The 900 Shops were the first to spread holiday cheer on North Michigan Avenue when they hosted the 3rd annual Illuminate 900 on November 15. The mall's already beautiful atrium was transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a storybook tree-lighting, real-life toy soldiers, holiday performances, caroling kiddies, festive food and drink and other seasonal surprises. The event was an arts-forward, community wide kick off to the holiday season and FREE to the public (suggested donations, that amounted to over $10,000, benefited Make-A-Wish Illinois). Throughout the evening, holiday performances enchanted guests with the highlight being Santa's (Chris Spears--the BEST Santa EVER!) arrival to light the 54-ft. tall tree, which was heralded by the Chicago Children's Choir singing "Here Comes Santa Claus." Once in front of the tree, standing with a darling Make-A-Wish child, 8-year-old Olivia, and the evening's host committee, Santa led the countdown to light the tree. As the tree lighted up and the streamer cannons exploded, beloved vocalist Ava Fain and her equally talented sister Joya Fain sang classic holiday favorites like "Man With the Bag" and "All I Want for Christmas is You." Other highlights of the evening included the New Music School Choir caroling at the main entrance; Winged Harmony (a professionally trained singer) dressed as an angel serenading guests; dancers (ZZAZZettes) from ZZAZZ Productions dressed ala the Rockettes in red velvet and white fur-trimmed costumes dancing their little hearts out; handsome male models from 10 Model Management dressed as toy soldiers greeting guests; The (darling) Real Elf (Tommy Holl) exuberantly interacting with attendees; Mrs. Claus; lush winter wonderland decor by Kehoe Designs; cooking decorating at Sur La Table; hors d'oeuvres from the brand new Aster Hall; Ruth Page Center for The Arts dancers and so much MORE! Alicia Skruba, 900 Shops marketing and business development manager, said, "Illuminate 900 has always been our Holiday Love Letter to Chicago. We couldn't be more pleased to be able to create a moment in time where Chicagoans from throughout the city come together to be reminded of the magic and wonder of the holidays. And no better partner than Make-A-Wish Illinois, as they share their own kind of healing magic throughout the year." A series of 900 Shops events will further benefit MAWI during the holiday season with a goal of $40,000. Host Committee members included Ana Belaval (emcee), Mario Tricoci, Tom Kehoe, Julie Barrish, Nancy Resnick, David Sanchez, Pierre Lockett, D.C. Crenshaw, Ceta Walters, Jivesh Toor, Tracey Tarantino, Mark Olley, David Murga, Samantha Thomas, Josephine Lee, Ava Fain and moi among others. Over 1,600 people turned out for the event that took place on all six levels of The 900 Shops! Ho! Ho! Ho! This was the VERY best way to kick off the holidays!

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Gateway for Cancer Research (Gateway), a nonprofit dedicated to transformational cancer research, raised $4.1 million at its annual CURES Gala, “The Greatest Gateway” with over 750 attendees. Inspired by the Oscar-nominated film, The Greatest Showman, the event was held on Saturday, October 20 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago, 301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL and featured a night of unparalleled entertainment and surprises “under the big top.” The event was presented and sponsored by Richard J Stephenson, founder and chairman of Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) and Gateway for Cancer
Research and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, CTCA Chairman of Functional Medicine and Director Gateway for Cancer Research Board. Actress and comedian Melissa Peterman, best known for her roles in the television comedy series Reba and Baby Daddy, emceed the night’s festivities beginning with a Broadway style performance by 11 year old, America’s Got Talent’s youngest finalist and Golden Buzzer winner, Angelica Hale and universal recording artist Fernando Varela, who has stunned audiences as a classic modern day tenor. Jonathan Cullen, who has wowed audiences as Elder Price in the first national tour of “The Book of Mormon," performed a show-stopping medley from The Greatest Showman, alongside America’s Got Talent finalist and Canadian Songwriters Award winner for Best Adult Contemporary/Pop Song 2018, Stacey Kay, who sang the Oscar-nominated song “This Is Me.”  The London Essentials, a five-piece acoustic party band, continued the thrills, followed by performances from Pia Toscano (American Idol Finalist and star of the new Netflix show “Westside"); electrifying pianist, recording artist and composer William Joseph;  international virtuoso violinist Caroline Campbell and R&B musical legend Brian McKnight who took the stage and delivered a memorable performance before Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra drew the night to an end with an energetic, show-stopping grand finale.“The Greatest Gateway” showcased breakthrough clinical cancer trials funded by Gateway, including Dr. Nathan Robison of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and his patient, Peighton Bailey. Dr. Robison is conducting a trial on low-grade gliomas and genetic mutations with childhood cancer. Using precision medicine, this multi- institutional trial studies the effects of MEK162, an inhibitor in tumor growth pathways. Peighton and her mom Jennifer shared her inspiring story, including the success of MEK162 in helping to shrink Peighton’s tumor and her dream to someday become a doctor and help other children facing cancer. Guests indulged in a custom culinary experience created by premier chef Markus Ford. (A personal favorite!) (Bob & Dawn Davis Photography)

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The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation (LSCRF) hosted its 33^rd Anniversary Fall Benefit Luncheon with featured keynote speaker Jill Kargman on October 22 at the Hilton Chicago. Second City Chicago writer, actress, comedian and producer Maggie Smith served as emcee of the Academy Awards-themed event, “The Pink Ribbon Awards.” With more than 1,000 attendees, the event raised more than $975,000 to help advance the treatment of breast cancer in the hopes of one day finding a cure. The luncheon, co-chaired by Wendy Heltzer and Sheri Whitko, began in the Normandie Lounge with the PURSE-SUE THE CURE™ purse auction sponsored by Luxury Garage Sale which featured more than 200 new, collectable and kids’ handbags from preeminent retailers, upscale boutiques and private collections. The event then moved to the Grand Ballroom for the program and The Pink Ribbon Awards. Recipients were: two-time breast cancer survivor, Elizabeth Kirk, who received the “Warrior” award; Nora M. Hansen, MD, Chief of Breast Surgery of Northwestern Memorial Hospital received the “Hero” award and the Best Documentary Short Film award went to Grace. Breast cancer survivors in attendance and the founders of LSCRF were also bestowed with awards. The ceremony was followed by a Q&A with actress and author Jill Kargman, who recently underwent a double mastectomy due to the CHEK2 gene. Event proceeds will support innovative breast cancer research, fellowships and educational programs at Northwestern Medicine and the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

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Young at Heart Pet Rescue hosted its signature fundraiser, the Silver Paws gala, themed "Senior Pets are Hidden Treasure." Close to 300 guests raised over $166,000 for homeless senior pets, which equals a lot of lives saved in the coming year! A dozen Young at Heart ambassador dogs loved all of the attention from each and every guest, and they all napped like champs the next day from all of the excitement! During the gala, guests laughed, cried and then laughed some more over the joy of seeing pets adopted and the heartbreak that some are still waiting for forever homes. Junior volunteers Alix Burkhardt and Anishi Patel presented an original play,"Island of Young at Heart, " that featured some of YAH's wonderful adoptable senior dogs. The inaugural Heart of Gold award was presented to Rita and John Canning for their support and incredible advancement of the welfare of older pets. The organization's Fund-a-Need video, produced by Erik Porter, highlighted just a few of the stories of senior pets that YAH has recently helped. Dawn Kemper, founder/executive director, announced that in the coming year, a new adoption center will open in Woodstock, Ill. in the spring. (Photos by Embracing Grace Photography) Just love this "no-kill" nonprofit and all the good they do to support senior dogs and cats. (To learn more click here!

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More than 450 guests came together in support of La Rabida Children’s Hospital at the 2018 Friends of La Rabida Awards Celebration, held at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago on November 15.  As La Rabida’s largest fundraising event, the gala provides great awareness about La Rabida’s important role in the Chicago children’s medical community in maintaining and improving the quality of life for each of its patients with complex conditions, disabilities and chronic illness, regardless of ability to pay. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner and the awards ceremony. In the live and silent auctions, guests had the opportunity to bring home vacation packages, VIP tickets to the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls and at-home dining experiences. Ravi Baichwal of ABC 7 Chicago served as the evening’s emcee. Notable guests in attendance included Richard Burridge, Sr., Chairman Emeritus of RMB Capital, who received the Lifetime of Service award and Christine O’Reilly-Riordan, Vice President-Community Relations/Executive Director of Chicago White Sox Charities, who received the Community Support award. The event raised over $725,000 to support the organization.  (Photos by Robert Carl)

WINGS Program Inc., the largest anti-domestic violence agency in Illinois, hosted the 66^th U.S. former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at its Road to Freedom luncheon on November 2 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago. WINGS provides shelter and family support to people fleeing domestic violence, but also provides services and education to break the cycle of abuse. The luncheon featured a Q&A session with Secretary Rice and moderator Greg Brown, CEO of Motorola Solutions, to discuss her book Democracy: The Long Road to Freedom. Mayor Emanuel also attended to speak about his support of WINGS and the importance of their acceptance of children in their shelters unlike others in Illinois. The luncheon raised over $1 million through individual and corporate sponsorships and day of donations. “Even though 1 in 3 women are victims of domestic violence, 1 in 3 people think even a discussion of this is taboo,” said Rebecca Darr, WINGS CEO.  “We are very excited about contributions made through this great event, but we have this conversation all year long.  It costs 1.2 million dollars each year just to keep one of our shelters running.  Our team never stops fundraising and looking for in-kind donations.”  To help WINGS break the cycle of domestic violence, visit www.wingsprogram.com to make a donation, or visit www.wingsprogram.com/in-kind-gift-donations/ for a list of critical needs for in-kind donations.

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Huge congrats to Julie Roth Novack and her incredible PartySlate that just celebrated its 3-year anniversary on November 9! Chicago’s top event professionals and tastemakers gathered at Venue West to celebrate PartySlate and the birthday of Julie, PartySlate co-founder/CEO. Paulette Wolf Events and Erin McDonald Design created a luxe emerald green and copper palette, filling the room with incredible balloon installations, towering florals, and elegant food stations from some of the city’s top restaurants. Kent Drake Photography captured every celebratory moment, including the always-packed dance floor, thanks to Taylor Pace Orchestra and Flow Entertainment. Since its founding in Chicago three years ago, PartySlate (a digital platform designed for leading event professionals to share their work with the world) has launched in Los Angeles, Dallas, New York City, and San Francisco, with Palm Beach scheduled for later this month. You go GURLLLLL!!!!

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Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation hosted its 5^th annual  A Walk for the Bear Costume Walk on Sunday, October 21 in Lincoln Park.  A Walk for the Bear brings together family, friends and supporters of Bear Necessities to honor the children who are currently fighting and those who have lost their battle to cancer. With nearly 500 participants in attendance, the event successfully raised more than $58,000 for pediatric cancer research. This spooktacular, family-friendly event was hosted by 103.5 KISS-FM’s Rufio. The warm-up was led by professional boxer and WBC Continental Americas 2017 Champion, Mike Jimenez, and featured tricks and sweet treats along the 3-mile trail. Following the walk, attendees enjoyed a box lunch provided by Mariano’s and participated in a variety of Halloween activities, including a costume contest and pumpkin decorating. The Kids Tent featured face painting, a bounce house, balloon animals and ghoulish games and crafts.

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This sounds almost too good to be true! Elf'd Up, a holiday pop-up bar now open in Wrigleyville ( 3485 N. Clark, aka Stretch Bar & Grill). This new high-energy, holiday pop-up bar will run through the end of January. Decorated as a full-blown tribute to the movie "Elf", the venue will offer guests themed cocktails and seasonal menu items, ornament decorating nights, a complimentary Santa Cookie Service daily at 10 p.m., a "Get Elf'd Up" happy hour that will benefit Compassion, DJs playing holiday mashups and more. Elf'd Up will be decorated from floor to ceiling with over 200 elves of all shapes and sizes, a 10-foot Christmas tree, an upside down Christmas tree, wreath chandeliers, strands of colored lights, a snow machine, specific tributes to the movie that will include figurines, wall quotes, snowflakes, Schylling Jester Jack in the Boxes, condiment carriers filled with maple syrup and candy canes, and other holiday decor. OH MY!! See YOU there! (www.elfdup.com) And you won't want to miss Santa Baby (3505 N. Clark, aka Deuces and the Diamond Club), right next door (my favorite holiday pop-up!!), since the lights can probably be seen from outer space! (Peek inside here!) Catch them both for a full dose of holiday cheer (through Jan. 6)!

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3Arts, the Chicago-based nonprofit grant-making organization, was honored to award 20 Chicago artists with unrestricted grants at the 11^th annual 3Arts Awards Celebration, that took place on November 5 at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The celebration recognized 3Arts Award recipients along with recipients from Make a Wave—an unprecedented artist-to-artist giving initiative. The evening honored ten artists with $25,000 cash grants and ten additional artists with $1,000 grants as part of the peer-to-peer giving program, Make A Wave. 3Arts has distributed more than $3 million in total funding to more than 600 Chicago artists over the past eleven years and awarded $260,000 on this night. “Championing Chicago artists is a privilege like no other. We are thrilled to present our awardees with opportunities that they profoundly deserve,” said Esther Grisham Grimm, executive director of 3Arts. “Last year’s launch of Make a Wave made it abundantly clear that there is nothing quite as exciting as witnessing artists offering support to other artists by paying it forward and encouraging them to dream big.” This year’s 3Arts Awards celebration featured performances by past awardees including wheelchair dancer Kris Lenzo and operatic baritone Will Liverman. The event was led by co-chairs Erryn Cobb (3Arts Board of Directors and CEO of Fetch Integrated Marketing Communications), Remberto Del Real (3Arts Board of Directors and Managing Director of Personal and Business Banking Marketing for BMO Harris Bank), and Jess Godwin (singer/songwriter and 2016 3Arts Award recipient). The 2018 Make a Wave recipients are: Nura Aly (violinist, educator, and dancer); Silvia Inés Gonzalez (interdisciplinary artist and educator); Krystal Grover-Webb (visual artist and educator); Jo de Presser, aka Marlon Billups (DJ); Joelle Lamarre (soprano, teacher, and playwright); Jenna M. Lyle (experimental musician and performer); Krystel V. McNeil (actor); Gonzalo Escobar Mora (visual artist and experimental filmmaker); Carolyn O’Brien (composer); and Ana Santos (actor). The recipients of the 2018 3Arts Awards are: T. Ayo Alston, 3Arts/Southwest Airlines Awardee; Anna Martine Whitehead, 3Arts/O’Neill & Williams Family Awardee; Brittany “BrittanE” Edwards;  Ben LaMar Gay, 3Arts/Stan Lipkin & Evelyn Appell Lipkin Awardee; Leida “Lady Sol” Garcia, 3Arts/RH, Restoration Hardware Awardee; Elgin Bokari T. Smith, 3Arts/Denise & Gary Gardner Awardee; Sandra Delgado, 3Arts;  Community Awardee; Christine Pascual, 3Arts/Lakeside Bank Awardee; Dianna Frid, 3Arts/Chandler Family Awardee and Hương Ngô, 3Arts/Reva & David Logan Foundation Awardee. (Robin Subar Photography)

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Such happy news! Longtime lovebirds Sheryl Dyer and Joe Schmidt made it official on Thanksgiving Day when he popped the question in front of family and friends at a Sea Island, Georgia get-together! Sheryl is the managing director of Van Cleef & Arpels and Joe is the president (and crack golfer) at Saint Patrick High School! Long may they love!! Woot! Woot!

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Christmas is in full swing at our house. Actually, we started decorating before Thanksgiving but don't judge me 'bro. It's our favorite time of the year so I'm always anxious to dust off the decor and fill the house with holiday cheer! Nothing makes me happier than to see every nook and cranny filled with something that makes me smile. I'm especially proud of our antique Christmas collection, but then, this stays up all year-round! Ho! Ho! Ho!

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I hope you all had the happiest of Thanksgivings! We had a bittersweet one with my sister and brother-in-law (Nancy and Dr. Os Steinwald). Bittersweet because it was our last one together in Chicago as they're moving to Florida soon. We're losing so many friends to the enticing warmer clime of the Sunshine State. Just this week, beloved Jan Melk has decamped to her new home on Fisher Island and Leslie Hindman (Happy Birthday!) has made Palm Beach her permanent residence as well.  I hope they all know they haven't escaped us....we can drive ya' know!

Love, as always,

Candace

[email protected]

P.S. Animals thankful for being rescued and websites where you can help, if so inclined. Awwwwww!