Category Archives: Books

March 14, 2011 · 7:51 pm

A CHEFS’ AFFAIR: COMMON THREADS’ BLACK TIE BALL & WORLD FESTIVAL

Every time I’ve attended an event at the Elysian Hotel, the staff greets you as if you’re visiting royalty. And this is exactly how this grand space makes you feel. The event was The Black Tie Ball benefitting Common Threads and it was an elegant and oh-so exciting affair. Guests were greeted at the elevator for the champagne reception as photographers flashed away. Everyone looked like they had just stepped out of the pages of Town & Country. The Small Threads assisted the servers in passing out delicious hors d’oeuvres while the Elysian’s Director of Operations, Attila Gyulai, and VP of Sales and Marketing, Joe Aguilera, kept a watchful eye. After the reception, fellow co-chairs Danny and Ann Wirtz, welcomed the intimate crowd of 100. Then handsome Australian and former "American Idol" contestant Michael Johns took to the stage. His beautiful voice transported the crowd as the candles twinkled on the tables underneath the dimmed crystal chandeliers. It was a beautifully surreal scene. Then Common Threads co-founder and artist, Jesus Salguiero, spoke and told the guests how the idea for this amazing organization came about. I was privileged to speak about my experiences with the Small Threads as well as introduce Executive Director Linda O’Keefe. Her eyes filled with tears when she spoke about the Small Threads saying their creed before every class. It was a moving moment. The courses were all prepared by famous chefs including Ria’s own Danny Grant who prepared a starter dish of scallops and octopus served with a Fumet Blanc. Chef Anita Lo from NYC prepared a slow-cooked egg with kabocha, maitake paired with Podda Classico Lo Annisa for the second course. Chef Michelle Bernstein from Miami introduced her famous sautéed cobia with Malaysian curry, coconut rice and plantains. The dishes were all fantastic but my favorite was Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s, which consisted of beer-braised short ribs, smoked greens and sweet potatoes. An exquisite dessert made with brown butter, huckleberries and cinnamon came courtesy of Chef Stephanie Prida. After dinner, the live auction began led by professional auctioneer Jeff Brown. There was a Blackhawks Bonanza package that was so coveted, it was doubled for a total of $17,000. A Silver Sea Cruise with Chef Art Smith brought $7,750 and was won by my tablemates, Katie and Jason McClenaghan. Rob Katz, co-owner of Boka Group, offered an amazing dining package for 12 that brought $8,750. The lucky winner was new board member Margaret Rainone! After the auction, guests moved to the stylish bar, Bernard’s, to mix and mingle with the chefs and recap this magical evening! Co-chairs for this event and World Festival were Danny and Anne Wirtz, Rama Dandamudi and Merita Tan and Chuck and me. Oh, what a night!

The festivities continued the FOLLOWING NIGHT when we celebrated the Sixth Annual World Festival in the gigantic United Club at Soldier Field! Seven hundred guests came to sample the delectable cuisine of 60 chefs who came from coast to coast to participate in this fundraiser to support the much needed programs of Common Threads. The evening began with a VIP reception that featured a darling Small Threads Fashion Show (produced by Tracey Tarantino along with Melissa Gamble). The fun, stylish outfits were courtesy of Bloomingdale’s (thanks Peggy Lanigan!) and made the kiddies feel so very special. And to top it off (pun intended), local designers created hats for them to wear for the finale promoting healthy eating. Designer Elda de la Rosa’s hat was a nod to the importance of seafood in your diet: Her hat had a complete dragon roll on top with chopsticks and crystal eyes and hand beading…GORGEOUS! Handsome Richie Porter won this hat in the auction that followed and I saw him wearing it all over the party afterwards! Designers Paul Sisti and John Schultz found inspiration in a trip to NYC. Their hats were covered in fresh fruit and veggies with hand weaving details. John had the big winner for the evening with his hat raising the most money. Other participating designers included Jermikko, Miriam Cecelia Carlson, Lauren Lein (whose own dress matched her charming creation), Horacio Nieto, Jonnie Rettele of Nonnie Threads and Anastasia Chatzka. After, the VIP party, guests dispersed into the crowd for food and fun. There was also a live and silent auction as well as a performance by K’Naan, who performed at the World Cup last year. One of my favorite DJs, Sye Young, played hot, hot mixes throughout the evening. The after-party followed at The James Hotel where the chefs and guests mixed and mingled. Over $350,000 was raised during this two-day event. Congrats to Executive Director Linda Novick O’Keefe and her remarkable team!! (Additional photos by Caitlin Saville. To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

On this same night, Chicago’s first JW Marriott Hotel celebrated with its grand opening hosted by Chairman and CEO, J.W. Marriott, Jr. The event featured exclusive live performances by Emmy Rossum (singer/songwriter and star of Showtime’s new Chicago-based series, “Shameless”) as well as some of our city’s greatest talent including the Joffrey Ballet and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. DJ Kiss performed throughout the evening for 400 guests. Attendees also included Emmy’s “Shameless” co-star, Ethan Cutkosky, renowned architect Lucien Lagrange, plus everyone’s favorite man-about-town, Bill Kurtis. To view more event pics, please click here. (Photos by Mila Samokhina unless otherwise noted).

On another night, hundreds of guests turned up at the Chicago Hilton to attend a Fashion Show Benefit for Little City. Neiman Marcus unveiled the latest trends for 2011 from collections that included Diane Von Furstenburg, Tory Burch, Oscar de la Renta, Escada, Valentino, Vionnet, Vera Wang, Marchesa, Badgley Mischka, Carmen Marc Valvo and alice + olivia among many others. Gorgeous jewels by Lana Jewelry twinkled from the Ford Models' necks and ears. The benefit brought together Chicago's most fashion-forward talent to present the latest spring and summer fashions while raising awareness for children and adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities served by Little City Foundation. The event included cocktails and a sit-down dinner with fun raffle prizes as well. Co-chairs for the evening were Eleni Bousis and Susanna Negovan and the fashion show was once again produced by ZZazz Productions. Check out the fun pics by Caitlin Saville and Mila Samokhina here!

What a whirlwind evening for "Macy's Chicago Takes Off" at the Park West recently! Lido des Boyz treated guests to a variety of performances that left you feeling like you'd attended 20 Broadway shows! Host Murray Hill was fabulous a
nd kept the crowd on its toes with hilarious zingers while introducing the fantastic lineup for the evening including acts that ranged from sexy Can Can dancers to Polly the Prancing Poodle and everything in between! Co-chairs Kyle Heath and Dan Paterno, along with a very supportive committee, introduced the sell-out crowd to over 130 exciting volunteer entertainers and dancers who included Molly Callinan, Kim Hayes, Frenchie Kiss, Michelle L'Amour, Midnight Circus, Kelli Morgan and Juliet Petrus. The Chi-Town She Devils performed along with Lily Bouquet, D'Manda Donation, DiDa Ritz and Teri Yaki. It was such a fun-filled evening benefitting TPAN (Test Positive Aware Network). A huge congrats to TPAN's Bill Farrand and Rhett Lindsay for their dedication and hard work! Additional pics by Steve Starr. To view ALL event pics, please click here!

One of my favorite jewelers and the winner of this year’s CFDA “Accessory Designer of the Year” award, Alexis Bittar, is having a grand opening party for his newest retail store at 1710 N. Damen on Friday, March 25th from 6 – 9 p.m. Bittar says, “I draw my inspiration from a myriad of areas, from antique furniture to vintage fabrics to old classic films. Pieces from the 1800’s and 1900’s were so beautifully crafted. I’m always scouring antique shows to find interesting pieces to sell at my stores as part of my vintage jewelry collection.” For the interior design concept of his Wicker Park store, he drew inspiration from a scene in Alfred Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest,” where Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint find themselves in the Drake Hotel. I think I could live in this jewel box of a store! Vivacious author Rima Suqi will also be signing copies of her latest book, “American Fashion Designers at Home.” To secure your place at this sure-to-be fantastic event, e-mail RSVP@AlexisBittar.com.

Congratulations to the six designers who have been chosen for the Chicago Fashion Incubator 2011 program! CFI will partner with the 900 North Michigan Shops on a pop-up store to celebrate the success of the alumni designers and to introduce these incoming designers with a dedicated retail store on Level 5. The Launch Party and fundraiser will be on Tuesday, March 15th from 6 – 8 p.m. Incoming designers include Concetta Cipriano, Shavonne Dorsey, Eric Kipp, Kahindo Mateene, Taneasha Prunty and Crystal Simms. So please come out to support our design community on Tuesday and shop the fashions from CFI designers past and present. To purchase tickets, $25, please click here.

Over 150 guests attended the First Annual Martinis and Mutts fundraiser hosted by Dominique Scalise and Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions for the Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control. Dressed to impress, guests were greeted with champagne, cocktails, Swirlz cupcakes and appetizers at Proof Lounge. Chicago legends Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra joined in the celebration with Chicago Wolves players Jason Krog and Darren Haydar. Over $8,000 was raised for this first annual event for the FCACC. I love any event that helps our furry friends!!! (Pics by Caitlin Saville…please click here to view more!)

The Four Seasons Hotel and Michigan Avenue Magazine hosted the “Definition of a Party” recently showcasing the key ingredients that define a good party. Four hundred guests filled the ballroom for an evening of cocktails, dancing and fashion amidst a clubby lounge scene created by Studio AG and XA. DJ Rock City spun the latest dance hits and NBC 5 meteorologist Ginger Zee served as emcee. There were Arthur Murray dance lessons, a fashion show from Saks Fifth Avenue, mixologist Adam Seger and creative bits from Four Seasons Executive Chef Kevin Hickey. Love the lounge vignettes!!!! Soooo cooool!

Hope you’re coping through the last gasps of winter…I am so ready for some sunshine!!! Here’s to a bright, happy SPRING!!!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Town treasure Victor Skrebneski will have an exhibition of his photographic works at Julia Buckingham Edelmann, located at 1820 W. Grand, on Friday, March 18th beginning at 6 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail Amy@buckinghamid.com or call 312-243-9975. Hope to see everyone there!

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

January 31, 2011 · 9:07 pm

CHICAGOANS PARTY AT SUNDANCE

Six years ago, then director of the Illinois Film Office, Brenda Sexton, decided Chicago needed a greater presence at the Sundance Film Festival. So she bought a condo large enough to host about 100 people and created the Annual Chicago at Sundance Party. I was so sad I couldn’t go this year but I know it has now become such a big hit that people send their resumes into Brenda for consideration to get in! This year, she has joined forces with Denis John Healy, Chicagoan and CEO of Turtle Wax, and moved the party to his magnificent large home in Deer Valley. Over 200 guests RSVP’d to this party, one of the hottest events at Sundance. The Peninsula Chicago decided to become the name sponsor this year to help encourage filmmakers to produce in Chicago as well as supporters Garrett’s Popcorn and Eli’s Cheesecake, who flew in treats for the event. Guests in attendance this year included Gabe and Alan Polsky (producers of the film “Bad Lieutenant”), Jack Gilardi (mega ICM talent agent), Jim Stern (CEO of Endgame), Christie Hefner and Billy Marovitz, Billy Dec, Les Coney, ABC’s Sylvia Perez, Diann Burns, Lance Chody (CEO of Garrett’s Popcorn), Susanna Negovan, Dr. Warwick Carter (Prez of Columbia College), Dr. Eric Winston (VP of Columbia College), Wade Bradley (CEO of IndieVest), NBC’s Andrea Metcalfe, Betsy Steinberg (Director of Illinois Film Office), Todd Lizak (AD of Ill. Film Office), Marc Anderson (Peninsula’s Director of Marketing), Lake Forest’s Ann and Kevin Dwyer and Lynne Bredfeldt. Lynne reported that she talked to late night talk show host Chelsea Handler and her new beau, hunky hotelier Andre Balazs, at Tao Saturday night, saw two great movie premieres (“The Greatest Movie Ever Sold” and “Cedar Rapids”) and spotted Chaz Bono, James Franco (in a blond wig), Anne Heche and Ed Helms. She was one busy girl!!! Chicago Link Productions is also the host for the annual bash in LA for Chicago alumni with RJ and Jerrod Melman at their Santa Monica eatery, La Grand Orange. Wherever you find Chicagoans, you find FUN with a capital F! Congrats Brenda for taking your show on the road to Park City! They are so lucky to have you!!! We miss you here big time! Click here to see who the party animals were!

I’m beginning to feel that Chicago is the center of the world. Everyone who is anybody comes through here, makes movies here, opens restaurants here and opens world class stores here. It’s also good to know we’re pretty safe from earthquakes, tsunamis and rocket launchers from the Middle East. In other words, I think it’s a pretty special place to live. Even our winters are getting milder, go figure! And the longer I write Candid Candace, the more aware I am of all of the wonderful charities and worthy organizations that are thriving here. Here’s just a sampling of some of the recent events along with exciting upcoming parties. This week at Rockit, I supported Scott Norton in his efforts with his new charitable idea called “Make My Day Mondays.” It’s a simple concept with far reaching results. As a player agent for 17 years, Scott has enlisted some of his sports star clients like St. Louis Blues enforcer Cam Janssen who tweeted on a Monday, “Dinner at Indian Rest. Walked out and gave homeless man leftovers with a $20 bill inside in case not a big fan of Indian! Make My Day Monday!” Scott described how this idea came about, “I talked with the guys about a way to get our company involved in a charitable movement and help people. I came up with this idea and name. I want to lead by example and show people that EVERYONE can help a little!” Through social media, Scott and his clients don’t focus on a dollar amount or specific organization, but behave with a sense of morality and support for the community in ways that don’t require a ton of money but rather a desire to help someone in need. Scott explains, “People feel they cannot give enough, so they don’t give at all.” Fans can follow Norton Sports clients such as Los Angeles King’s Dustin Brown (@DustinBrown23) and Cam Janssen (@CamJanssen55) each Monday on Twitter. This week’s MMDM event at Rockit brought out over 150 friends in support of Step-Up Women’s Network. So, hopefully, you can take a moment this Monday, and every Monday, to make someone’s day! What a wonderful idea Scott and what a great way to be on Karma’s good side! For more info, contact Scott at 312-330-0329 or on Twitter, @NortonSports. Click here for more photos from this fun event!

CS Magazine’s Samantha Saifer is hosting a BIG launch party for Luxury Garage Sale, a company specializing in upscale consignment. This two day, Saturday and Sunday, February 12th and 13th, shopping event will be held at Galleria Unico, located at 1936 W. Division (2nd floor) from 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Shop an inventory of new and gently used designer, contemporary and vintage clothing, accessories and shoes from the most sought after fashionistas’ closets in town. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit Dress for Success, a non-profit organization that provides interview suits, confidence boosts and career development to low-income women in over 75 cities worldwide. Needless to say, this will be the biggest and most handpicked consignment sale of the year! Hope to see you there!!!

On Saturday, February 26th, you won’t want to miss the 2011 Bear Tie Ball, “Tropicure.” This year’s event for the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, will be held at Union Station from 6 p.m. until midnight. Ball chairperson Maxie Clarke promises an island adventure with captivating raffles, sizzling auctions (with new iTouch bidding) and dancing, dancing, dancing! Black tie preferred, island flair encouraged! Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a national organization founded in 1992 by Kathleen Casey and her 8-year-old son, Bear. Their mission is to eliminate pediatric cancer and to provide hope and support to those who are touched by it. For tickets, starting at $325, please visit www.bearnecessities.org or call 312-214-1200, ext. 29.

The Benjamin Marshall Society will host a celebration of the First Centennial Anniversary of East Lake Shore Drive, 1911-2011, on Friday, March 4th at the Drake Hotel. This 100-year milestone in Chicago’s social and architectural history will honor Benjamin Marshall, who designed five of the eight buildings on iconic East Lake Shore Drive including the Drake and 999 N. Lake Shore. Marshall’s creation of the Drive came at a time when that piece of land was merely a landfill and when the wealthy were still living in sumptuous residences on the south side of Prairie Avenue. Jane Lepauw of Northbrook and Jennifer MacGregor of Lake Forest are co-chairs for this upcoming gala along with Honorary Chair, 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly. Tickets are $250. Reservations can be made at BenMarshallSociety@yahoo.com or by calling 312-932
-4309.

Under the “it’s about time” category, we have the upcoming Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Benefit for AIBI which will honor the Duchess of DuPage, our own Hazel Barr! Her contributions to Chicago’s philanthropic community are unparalleled and her singular drive and leadership towards her goals have endeared her to so many. As a matter of fact, I believe the term “Grande Dame” was created just for HER! She has so many admirers that I’m not sure the Casino will be able to hold them all on Wednesday, April 27th. I am very proud to call her my friend. Tickets are $200 and include a cocktail reception from 6 to 9 p.m. and a light supper. Reservations can be made by calling 312-836-1041. See you all there I hope!!!

I ran across a very interesting blog lately called “At Home with the Farmer’s Wife.” This website is the kind you want to read on a Sunday morning with a cup of coffee. It’s a feel good column about life in rural Illinois and I love it. It reads, “The Farmer’s Wife lives 9 miles from anything. Join her on a journey to connect with the rest of the world and find some common ground. The screen door will be open and the porch light will be on.” Too charming for words! I wonder if her farm looks anything like auctioneer Leslie Hindman’s whose Fair Warning Farm was featured in a great spread in this month’s Chicago magazine?

This year’s Service Club Gala promises to be quite a party so save the date now for Friday, November 4th! Co-chairs Dusty Stemer, Toni Canada and Laurie Davis are planning an evening at El Morocco filled with 1940’s glamour so stay tuned for more info! Click here for pics.

And last but not least, the Maxim Chicago Party, celebrating the biggest weekend in football, will be held on Friday, February 4th at SpyBar, located at 646 N. Franklin, Chicago. This VIP event will be hosted by NBC Chicago’s Marcus Riley alongside Maxim spokeperson April Rose. The Blackhawks Ice Crew and Maxim models will be featured this evening along with the world renowned DJ D Ramirez. Doors open at 10 p.m. and the party will go on until 4 a.m. For more info, please contact Hannah at 773-963-1333 or e-mail Hannah@spybarchicago.com. Congrats to Marcus and April on what I know will be a very full house!!

I know it’s getting a little gloomy around here with the lack of sun and never ending snow, but take a look at this little video of 10-year-old LaLa who just LOVES this kind of weather!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t miss the documentary, “Louder Than a Bomb,” coming on February 4th to the Gene Siskel Film Center. Filmmakers Jon Siskel and Greg Jacobs, have already garnered 11 awards at film festivals across the country with the biggest accolade being chosen by the Oprah Winfrey Network for her upcoming “OWN Documentary Club.” The film is based around an annual event where more than 600 teenagers from over 60 Chicago area high school poetry teams gather for the world’s largest youth poetry slam. Roger Ebert called it, “Surely one of the best and most powerful films in this year’s Chicago International Film Festival.” I can’t wait to see it. Take a sneak peek here at this powerful documentary about finding one’s voice at www.louderthanabombfilm.com.

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Television, Travel, Weblogs

December 14, 2010 · 5:35 pm

WORLD OF CHOCOLATE IS A SWEET TREAT!

One of my favorite events is the World of Chocolate benefitting the Aids Foundation of Chicago. Not only is it really “sweet” fun (pun intended!) but the people who attend are all in full holiday-happy mode which makes it even more exciting! This year, 1,700 guests attended this ninth annual winter soiree to sample sweet and savory morsels from 26 of the city’s finest restaurants, chocolatiers and caterers. Held at the Hilton Chicago, this one-of-a-kind event commemorated World AIDS Day and raised more than $170,000 to support AFC and the fight against HIV/AIDS. Guests savored a variety of unusual and tasty treats including chocolate mashed potatoes, caramel sea salt truffles and red ribbon cookies. Booths sparkled spectacularly amidst holiday displays in a room draped by Tom Kehoe with the honorary color of the evening – red. The décor, which included gorgeous oversized lamps and round banquette seating, made the large ballroom seem like a cozy, charming living room. Local celebrity judges included Malika Ameen (“Top Chef: Just Desserts” contestant), Valerie Beck (president and founder of Chicago Chocolate Tours), Kathy Brock (WLS-TV, ABC anchor), Richard Dayhoff (nationally recognized fashion designer), Billy Dec (CEO and founder of Rockit Ranch Productions), Miss Foozie (irrepressible female impersonator), Jan Jeffcoat (WFLD-TV, FOX anchor), Steven Hamilton (celebrated food photog), Sarah Levy (Sarah’s Candies), Bill Pritchard (Sr. VP of Community Affairs for Chicago Pride), Loni Swain (WGCI-FM on-air personality), Fritz Knipschildt (guest of honor and world renowned chocolatier) and moi. Governor Pat Quinn was on hand as a guest of honor and promised to sign the civil union legislation into law after the first of the year causing the crowd to roar with cheers. Even mayoral hopeful Rahm Emanuel was there working the crowd, taking pics and shaking hands. During the event, guests enjoyed lively entertainment provided by DJ Mark Picchiotti, an elaborate buffet, champagne and cocktails. Many guests came dressed for fun wearing playful costume props including feather boas, cowboy hats and giant clown glasses. The judges awarded special vendors with awards in five categories: The Hot Chocolate Award for overall tastiest treat went to Terry’s Toffee, the Loco Cocoa Award for most creative use of chocolate was presented to the Hearty Boys (their chocolate infused BBQ pulled pork with bourbon sweet mashed potatoes was incredibly tasty!), the Sweet Booth Award for best overall presentation went to the Peninsula Hotel for their creative winter ski chalet (the Pen also won the Chocoholic’s Dream Award for most visually enticing dish as well as the People’s Choice Award for guests’ overall favorite chocolatier). Some other highlights included Mama Picky’s whose family has been in the business since the ‘20s. They even grow their own pecans for their chocolates! Talbott Teas and Chocopologie by Knipschildt Chocolatiers were both named as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things while the Illinois Nut Company presented LGBT chocolate toppers. Another favorite of mine, Just Like You Like It Catering, offered delicious comfort food including mashed potatoes and fried sweet potato strings covered in chocolate sauce. Trust me, it was delicious! The Palmer House’s darling homage to the 70’s included TaB cans lit from below on the walls with Chef Stephen Henry and staff serving up delicious chocolate TaB floats. Can’t wait to see what kind of fabulous creations are offered at the tenth winter party in 2011! To view ALL event pics, please visit my Chicago Now site. (Additional pics by Steve Starr.)

The Service Club of Chicago, one of the oldest women’s charitable organizations in the city at 120 years old, held their annual Holiday Luncheon in one of the most beautiful rooms in the city, Cathedral Hall at the University Club. My first thought upon entering was that I had died and gone to Hogwarts: The soaring ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows framed the enormous 22-foot tree which was exquisitely laden with ornaments! The luncheon was a sell out with over 200 guests attending and the holiday shopping offered some of the best gift ideas around. Vendors included Mary, Mary – who had the coolest ballerina ornaments (I bought two for friends) – among many other holiday delights. Tails in the City had the most adorable puppy wear! I bought two little, bitty red and green knitted scarves for Mickey and Rooney. And LuLu’s at the Belle Kay featured their always-gorgeous vintage jewelry selections. The luncheon committee, which included Hazel Barr, Jean Antoniou, Holly Barr, Cheryl Bollinger, Yvette Cusack and Stacie McClane outdid themselves this year and I hope we return to this magical spot again next year. Cheryl even created the whimsical snowman centerpieces on all of the tables—talk about an involved hands-on committee!!! Every guest brought a children’s book which was donated to the Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Illinois at Chicago Hospital. To find out more about all of the wonderful efforts of this organization, please visit www.serviceclubofchicago.org. (Additional pics by Steve Starr…to view ALL event pics, please click here!)

One of my very favorite magazines, Chicago, celebrated its 40th anniversary in grand style recently at the James Hotel. Over 450 friends came out on this snowy night to toast publisher/general manager Rich Gamble and editor Dick Babcock. Rich had this to say: “In 2004, we were the first city monthly ever to win a National Magazine Award for general excellence, tantamount to an Oscar in the magazine business. Our readers rewarded us with their loyalty: Chicago is the largest city monthly magazine in the United States.” Yeahhh! Familiar faces seen in the crowd included Sugar Rautbord, Greg Hyder, Amanda Puck and her cute boyfriend Jerome Weitzel, Amalie Drury, Laura Schwartz, Carmen Rivera and Chicago’s Natalie Sturgis and so many more. To see ALL of the fun party pics, please check out my Chicago Now page.

Here’s something worth planning ahead for: The Fifth Annual Signature event, “My Kind of Town,” will be held on Saturday, January 29th at the River East Art Center located at 435 E. Illinois St. from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. This chic cocktail party benefits the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation which is evolving into America’s #1 advocate for children and families battling pediatric cancer. This year alone, over 13,000 children will be diagnosed with this horrible disease. CEO/President Kathleen Casey started this much-needed organization when her son Bear was diagnosed at age three with the most curable form of pediatric cancer but, sadly, five and a half years later, he lost his courageous battle. His remarkable spirit gave birth to Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Over the last 18 years, Bear Necessities has funded over $3 million for critical research and support services. Tickets, which are $60 in advance and $75 at the door, can be purchased by calling Karen Roark at 312-214-1200, X29 or by e-mailing her at kroark@bearnecessisties.org. To learn more about this wonderful organization, please watch this short video.

The Old Town Triangle’s Annual Holiday Party was packed to the brim with neighbors who were entertained by the “Sounds of Sweetness,” which is Walter Payton College Prep High School’s male a cappella ensemble. Formed in 2001, they sang a number of joyous holiday tunes to a rapt audience and thanked event organizer Shirley Baugher for bringing them to our Old Town party. Guests enjoyed all manner of home-baked goods, caroling led by Jeff Weaver, crafts for the kids conducted by Amy Ewaldt and the beautiful artwork by Elizabeth Weber. The Sounds of Sweetness have performed all over the country and recently appeared on ABC 7 Morning News live from Christkindl Fest in Daley Plaza. If you live in Old Town and are not Triangle members, you can join by visiting www.OldTownTriangle.com and come join in our fun!

Auctioneer extraordinaire Leslie Hindman recently celebrated a birthday at her 100-acre farm, Fair Warning, in Bull Valley, Illinois. There were so many friends there to wish her well – including long-time friends Mary Lou Gorno and Mike Sneed who made the birthday toast – that we were spilling over into the magnificent barn where the sit-down dinner was held. Leslie had hired a delightful duo to perform some of her favorite songs from the ‘70s and it was a wonderful celebration for a terrific and well-loved friend. BTW, Leslie auctioned off a beautiful Norman Rockwell painting Sunday afternoon for a very tidy sum! Congrats and Happy Birthday, Leslie! We love YOU! (Click here for more pics from this fun night!)

This year, I am only buying Christmas gifts for my son Charley and my mother-in-law Jean. Chuck and I couldn’t squeeze another geegaw into our home so I think this is a wise and money-saving decision this year. However, I do have some recommendations for some delightful gifts if you are so inclined! One of my favorite shops – Mangel Florists – is located at the Drake Hotel. Mangel has been around forever but many don’t realize they have a packed gift shop as well as floral services! You feel like you’ve stumbled into Santa’s workshop there are so many visual delights! Even their windows are some of my very favorites in the city—sort of like mini Bergdorf Goodmans. Another favorite shop for gifts is the Joffrey Ballet’s gift shop. Their selections include Monskey Nutcracker dolls (“Bob” has just been named one of the top five holiday gifts this year by Time Out Chicago), jewelry boxes, ballet bears, Nutcracker pop-up books, ornaments, Joffrey logo clothing, note cards, mugs and photo albums to name a few. You can order online here. Greg Hyder told me about Brimfield, a store that opened recently at 5219 N. Clark in Andersonville. Owner Julie Fernstrom loves plaids, flannels and antiques so her shop is filled with wondrous things including vintage Christmas items! I hear it’s selling out fast though so you better pop in! Happy hunting! (View more fantastic holiday finds here.)

Well, that’s it for this week! I hope all of you and your loved ones are enjoying this magical holiday season. There is so much to see and do in Chicago now! Two of my favorites are the Zoo Lights Festival at the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Christkindl Market in Daley Plaza…maybe I will see you there! I will be wearing the oversized Santa hat! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Special thanks to writer Jessica Radloff and AOL’s City’s Best for naming me the “Unofficial Hostess of Chicago!” Thanks for this honor, Jessica and City’s Best! 🙂

LATINO FASHION BALL ROLLS OUT TOP TALENT!

The 4th Annual Latino Fashion Week held its Fashion Ball 2010 at the Mercedes-Benz of Chicago dealership to cap off this week long celebration of Latino fashion in grand style! This event, the only one of its kind in the country, was produced by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon and included collections by designers Jaer Caban, Hector MonArrez, Carlos Campos, John Dunn, Alexandre Chandona, Jose Jhan, Magaly Tiburcio, Gutierrez-Marcano and exquisite wedding gowns by Lazaro Perez. The event was hosted by Zoraida Sambolin. There were also inventive and creative dresses made in construction textures by some of the top architecture and engineering firms as well as pieces from the estate of Celia Cruz. It seemed there was a visual delight in every corner! After the exciting fashion show, there was live entertainment and dancing featuring a performance by salsa recording artist Brian Michaels as well as post-party dancing to the hot mixes by DJ Lugo. Celebrity guests included actress/model Patricia de Leon, multimedia producer Carlos Anaya, Pivot Point founder Leo Passage and actor/model Paulo Quevedo. Tracey Tarantino, my favorite producer from ZZazz Productions, produced the show beautifully, as always. I’ve been to a lot of fashion shows and I think this group of designers created some of the most unique and dramatic pieces I’ve seen in a while. I can’t wait to see what they will do next! (Check out these cool pics by Caitlin Saville, Milo Samokhina and Steve Starr on my Chicago Now site!)

I am so happy for my hard working friend Marcus Riley! I first met him when I became a blogger for the NBC Street Team (he oversaw the bloggers and directed content for their website) and through the years, he added videos and goodness knows what else to his already extensive repertoire. The next thing you know, I find out he has won an EMMY for a project he did surrounding a photography book called “Light: On the South Side.” Photographer Michael Abramson took 5,000 photos in South Side clubs when he was in school at IIT in the mid-70s, and they just now became published by a local company called Numero Group. Marcus said, “I don’t think I wanted to win an Emmy as badly as this one. This was my passion project, because I’ve always had an affinity for the ‘70s from a style, musical and cultural aesthetic.” Marcus, no one deserves this award more than you…congratulations! Check out this link for more info and to purchase Michael Abramson’s incredible book, please click here!

Steve Starr seems to be all over the press these days! He was recently interviewed by Janet Davies for a segment on Channel 7, appeared at the Drake for another book signing and will also be featured at Authorama at Karyn’s on Green (130 S. Green St.) on Tuesday, December 7th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Other authors appearing include Marlys A. Beider (“Continuum”), Sherrill Bodine (“A Black Tie Affair”), Mary Edsey (“The Best Christmas Decorations in Chicagoland”), Jill Egizzi (“Look of Love”), Michele Lowrance (“The Good Karma Divorce”), Delphine Pontvieux (“ETA: Estimated Time of Arrest”), Terri Lee Ryan (“Life is One Big To-Do List: A Woman’s Life After 40”) and Steve with his recent book (“STARRLIGHT: Glamorous Latin Movie Stars of Early Hollywood”). What a wealth of talent we have in Chicago! Hope you can all come out, get your books signed and support our local authors! And besides this, you can pick up some lovely Christmas gifts! :) Love, Santa. Also, check out this video of the event by Ch. 3 Media’s Joel Burton and more pics here.

Sadly, I had to miss this year’s Glamorama in Long Beach and from what I’ve heard, it was so much fun! Over 65 Playmates participated and Hef even made an appearance, his first since 2005. Fans lined up since 5 a.m. to get the “golden ticket” voucher which would allow them to meet Hef and have him sign one item. He brought along his girlfriend, Crystal Harris (Miss December 2009), who also signed autographs at his table. This 50th celebration brought out Playmates Jeana Tomasino (who was a former cast member on “The Real Housewives of Orange County), Victoria Cooke (8/80), Liz Glazowski (4/80), Janet Lupo (who is celebrating her 35th year as a PM, 11/75), Lee Ann Michelle (famous Page 3 girl of “The Sun” and Miss February 1979), Stacy Sanches (Playmate of the Year 1996) and Tiffany Taylor (11/98) to name a few. Glamourcon is defined as a marketplace of the glamour arts. The event is celebrity driven and features dozens of Playmates from five decades as well as many past and present glamour and pinup models. It is tons of fun and I always love seeing my fellow Playmates! I hated missing it this year but will return!

I had the most delightful experience recently at the Illinois Center for Broadcasting! I appeared on “The Jarrett Payton Show” with Jarrett and his funny sidekick and program director, Ernie Scatton. They host live broadcasts weekdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at www.TheJarrettPaytonShow.com. Jarrett, as you probably know, is the son of Sweetness and a running back for the Chicago Slaughter. The show covers everything, not just sports, and I heard some of the funniest improv the day I was interviewed. Their guests who followed me were two of the adorable Guillen boys (sons of Ozzie) and the show was hysterical! Since 1986, the Centers for Broadcasting have taught all aspects of broadcasting through an intensive, hands-on program instructed by the industry’s top professionals. On the day I was there, Eli Clarke was teaching a class. He is a world renowned freelance photography director and cameraman who has been involved with “Chappelle’s Show,” Chris Rock specials and PBS specials for Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder at the White House to name a few. (There are six campuses for the Center for Broadcasting: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, Lombard, Ill. and Chicago). Congrats to President Robert Mills and Executive Director Bill Natale for bringing us this exciting concept for learning!

A great kickoff to the holiday season is the annual “Deck the Hall” Concert at Old St. Pat’s Church. This year was their 17th celebration and all three days were complete sell-outs! The church was gorgeous with red and white poinsettias as well as twinkle lights everywhere you looked. Their Concert Choir performed with the Metropolis Symphony Orchestra and included soloists Catherine O’Connell, Terese Cullen, Laura Higgins, Michael Boschert and Shelley MacArthur Farley (among others), who sang a delightful rendition of “Christmastime is Here” with her long-time pianist Bradley Williams. Even Father Wall joined in the fun singing “Have Yourselves a Merry Little Christmas.” There was a reception following that included a “Twelve Days of Christmas” raffle. One of the top prizes included a round trip to Ireland on Aer Lingus.

Joli Burrell is having a ball in Wellington, Florida and deservedly so! As you may or may not know, she is an avid horsewoman with many champions in her stables at her 20-acre spread known as Halcyon Farms located near Palm Beach. Her neighbors include other horse enthusiasts such as Mayor of NYC Michael Bloomberg, Glenn Close, Bruce Springsteen and Lou Dobbs. Besides being a gorgeous woman of the world with a megawatt smile, she is a dedicated philanthropist and has raised millions for La Rabida Children’s Hospital. There is a wing named in her honor as well as the Joli Burrell Children’s Advocacy Center in Park Forest. Here she is shown with her friends who include the gorgeous polo player and Ralph Lauren model Nacho Figueras, Johnny Robb (publicist), Brandon Phillips (high goal polo player), Tami Hoag (NY Times best-selling author) and Betsy Steiner (Intl. dressage trainer). So happy to see you so happy Joli! :) For more info on the Joli Burrell Children’s Advocacy Center, please click here!

There is still time to buy Joffrey Ballet Nutcracker tickets for the family dinner and performance on Saturday, December 11th! I love to see the joy on all of the little kids’ faces every year as they experience this magical Joffrey Ballet and then play in the “Land of Snow” at the Palmer House. This year’s co-chairs Suzette Bulley and Odele Hawkins have planned so many fun things that it makes me wish I were little again…but then being young at heart counts, too! Hope to see you all there! Call Julia Doherty for tickets at 312-386-8921 or visit www.Joffrey.org/nut. Also, congrats to the sweet Joffrey dancers who recently appeared on Oprah’s “Ultimate Favorite Things” show, Christine Rocas and John Mark Giragosian!

The day after Thanksgiving is always the day our Christmas décor goes up. I have a wonderful elf/friend Jeff Jonen who has helped me with this for over 10 years and he is terrific! This year though we opted for a 7-foot tree in the foyer as opposed to a 12-foot tree in the living room. This move saves on cost and labor and looks equally as charming I think/hope. My collection of antique Christmas toys, ornaments and trees have almost outgrown the table it is displayed on but still thrills me every time I put it up. Please send me pics of your décor and any holiday traditions you might have. I would love to use them in an article about our holidays and traditions in Chicago! (To reach Jeff, e-mail FreshorFaux@aol.com and click here to see more photos of our home.)

What a wonderful time of the year! I hope you all had a memorable Thanksgiving and enjoyed your time with family and friends. I ordered a fried turkey this year, as you may recall, thanks to my friend Carlos Escabedo and I will definitely be doing this again as it was soooooo delicious! Much juicier than a regular turkey baked in the oven! If you are interested in one for Christmas, just call or e-mail Joe Japczyk at 773-474-3919 or jjapczyk@yahoo.com. The price is $75 which includes delivery and saves your own home from going up in flames from trying to do this yourself!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I hope you can join designer Elda de la Rosa and me as she celebrates 10 YEARS in the world of couture! Please join us for a toast on Friday, December 10th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 5555 N. Sheridan Road. To RSVP, please e-mail jacky@jpriego.com. And don’t even ask about this dress on the invite…it’s MINE! Just kidding…I don’t mind sharing! 🙂

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

November 8, 2010 · 8:49 pm

HEF HOPS BACK HOME WITH HIS FAMILY AND PLAYMATES

I loved being a part of the Playboy world in the ‘70s. I was a bunny in St. Louis with Patti Connors (then McGuire) and we had so much fun together (still great friends after all of these years, too). That’s the feeling most of the girls had: Being a bunny was like being in a big, happy family…believe it or not, no jealousies or bickering, just having fun and making money in a very glamorous environment. The guests were very well behaved and treated us with respect – the security guards roaming the premises made sure of this. Moving from southern Illinois into the Mansion was like traveling from Kansas to the Emerald City. I was in awe driving up Lake Shore Drive in my MGB with one lone suitcase on my little luggage rack. I walked up to that big iron gate at 1340 N. State St. and my whole world changed, for the better. I became Chicago Playboy Bunny of the Year and December 1979 Playmate as well as appearing on eight covers for the magazine (two U.S. and six foreign editions). I knew everyone in the Art Department and they were like relatives to me…actually, they still are! So, it was very thrilling for me to welcome my old boss back home to Chicago for the first time with his sons, Marston and Cooper. The first thing that struck me when I saw him was how VERY tall his sons are!!! Oh my, well over six feet and still growing at 20 and 21 years of age. But then their mother, Kimberly Conrad (Playmate of the Year 1989), was tall as is Keith, Hef’s brother, so I guess it all makes sense although it was shocking to see initially. Another thing I noticed at the press meet-and-greet was how very kind and solicitous both of these boys were to everyone. They have indeed been raised well with gracious manners and no rich-boys-in-LA attitude whatsoever. Hef was we
aring a little fedora – he seems to have really taken to the chapeaux concept since Kendra first insisted on his wearing a sailor hat to some function when the original “Girls Next Door” was still running – and it worked for him! He’s hard of hearing in one ear but still as smart and alert as he’s always been. When I asked him about his trip home, he looked at Keith and said, “It was very emotional for us.” He visited his home in Galewood, his high school (Steinmetz), went to a Halloween Party at the PB offices and then came to the Gene Siskel Film Center to view the premiere of his documentary. This two-hour film was entertaining from beginning to end and showed me sides of Hefner I wasn’t aware of. I was asked during an interview with the Daily Herald if I was aware of his activism when I was a bunny. I told the writer, Raymond Benson, my only concerns at the time were what club would I be going to, what would I wear and who would I date. Hef, his family and friends walked the press line and talked to everyone. I could see how many times he must’ve done this in his life because he gave every photographer in the line a look right into their cameras…the mark of an ultimate professional naturally. A lot of Playboy friends from the past showed up to greet him including my old Playmate Promotions Director, Elizabeth Norris. She looked great and he was thrilled to see her along with Playboy’s Art Director Rob Wilson and his charming wife, Shanthi. PB’s Chief Content and Editorial Director Jimmy Jellinik was there, too, as well as Hef’s daughter Christie Hefner and her hubby Billy Marovitz. Playboy’s founding Art Director, Art Paul (creator of the iconic Playboy logo) was also there. After the film, Hef received a standing ovation and then made his way to the front for the Q & A. Michael Kutza, Chicago Film Fest founder, interviewed Hef and the film’s director, Brigitte Berman. As we all know, Hef is trying to buy back his company and I hope he succeeds. The
brand has never been hotter since the ‘50s. The Playboy Bunny is coming back and clubs will be opening in London, Macau and Cancun in the next six months. Since these clubs will also be casinos, expect to see the stock rise along with profits. Old rabbits never die…they just hop slower until the rest of the world catches up again! :) (Pics by Caitlin Saville. To view ALL event pics, please click here!)

Jesse Garza and Joe Lupo are two of the most talented people I know in the world of fashion. They have written several books on the subject and are known experts the world over so when you get an invite to the launch of their latest book, you put on your Manolos, grab your leopard bag and GO! Besides all of their success, they are still two of the nicest guys I know. Their recent party was held at the Ritz in one of the coolest suites I’ve seen, the Royal Suite. It was two stories and filled to the brim with delicious items from the hottest vintage clothing store in the country, Decades! This two-day pop-up shop, Decadestwo.1, included carefully chosen vintage designer duds by owner Christos Garkinos from Hollywood bigwigs, top fashion stylists, wealthy collectors and star clients. Oh, the shoes, Chanel, handbags, jackets, dresses…I was in heaven! Saw lots of fashionistas crowding into the suite as I was leaving so I know they had a terrific turnout! Jesse and Joe’s book, “Work It: The Ultimate Women’s Guide to Dressing for Career Success,” not only included fashion tips but it also included some familiar faces such as Lynn McMahan and Amanda Puck – two more of my favorite glamour girls. And besides the fact that I was thrilled to be there shopping, the best part of the evening was the fact that a percentage of the proceeds benefitted Deborah’s Place. If you haven’t heard of Deborah’s Place, you should know about this much-needed non-profit: For 25 years, this charity has been breaking the cycle of homelessness among women through compassionate, innovative and award-winning programs. Their dedicated volunteers support women through their journeys from homelessness to permanent supportive housing. I told you Jesse and Joe were terrific guys! This gesture, along with the way they live their lives in general, is proof positive. Good luck wi
th your fab new book! (To purchase the book, please click here and to view more photos, click here.)

Fall is the absolute BEST time in Old Town. I look forward every year to the Old Town Triangle’s annual get-together organized by the Mayor of Old Town, Shirley Baugher, and her crack staff at the Center. Last year, there was a chili cook-off and this year we had a meatloaf showdown! I was thrilled to be a judge along with Chef Ryan Poli of Perennial (who had brought his fabulous girlfriend, Celeb TV’s Kelli Zink), Alderman Vi Daley and Keith Thams.Winner Lucy Wojtas had tried out five versions before coming up with the winning recipe: Jalepeno and Red Pepper Stuffed Turkey Meat Loaf. And it was awesome! I would share the recipe with you but, apparently, it’s different every time she makes it! The Pied Pipers entertained the crowd and, for the first time, I saw someone play a SAW! The musician played it with a violin bow and the sound was absolutely haunting! There was also a playroom set up for the kiddies. There were more attendees this year than for any event in Old Town except for the Old Town Art Fair (scheduled next year for June 11th and 12th). The annual Holiday Party will be at the OTT Center on December 5th. Seen at the food fest this year were the Waterfields (Shannon, John, Scotty and Berit), Dan and Lucy Baldwin, Courtney Beemer, Chris Beer, Lynn Chaloupka, Chelsea Davis, Anne Giffles, Edie Scala Hampson, Bob Holmberg, Bill Lackland, Don McDougall, Barbara McGill, Shawna Owen, Stephanie Turken, Karen Pfendler, Masita Thams, Michael Warnick, Sue Apey, Alice Huff and Mary Morony among many others! For more info, please visit www.oldtowntriangle.com and click here for more pics!

And while we’re on the subject of food, I am trying something I’ve never tried before for Thanksgiving: a FRIED TURKEY! However, I am not foolish enough to try to do this myself – believe me, I know my limitations! – but when friend, Carlos Escabedo, suggested I order one from a friend of his, I jumped at the chance. When I heard more about his circumstances, I was thrilled to help: The economy hasn’t been kind to a lot of us and, apparently, Carlos’ friend is trying to make some extra cash frying turkeys to order with delivery for only $75! So, if you want to help out AND try something different for Thanksgiving, please give Joe Japczyk a call at 773-474-3919 or e-mail him at jjapczyk@yahoo.com. Gobble gobble!

I guess there might be an event with cuter attendees but I don’t think so! This year’s 7th Annual Tails in the City Halloween Pet Parade featured over 200 four-legged friends in all of their costume finery. They paraded down Delaware to Washington Square Park to compete for prizes and there was an exhibition of doggie agility from K9 University plus delicious $1 hotdogs from Downtown Dogs. There was lots of creativity, including my favorite: Chihuahuas dressed as Dorothy, the Tin Man and the Scarecrow! The judges, Bobbie Panter and Kathy Stevens, had a tough time deciding who would win in categories such as “Best Overall” (won by Blago and the Senate Seat), Most Glamorous (a pup dressed as a Victoria’s Secret model), Best Duo (a farmer with her pup dressed as a pea in a farmer’s market) among other cute stuff. Proceeds from the event went to PAWS Chicago. Congrats to Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh, owners of Tails in the City, for all of the wonderful pet friendly events you bring to Chicago! Their next party will be on December 4th and 5th for holiday pics with Santa Claus. Keep ‘em comin’! :) (See more pics here!)

As you’re planning your holiday Christmas cards this year, please check with your favorite charity first to see if they offer them! In years past, I’ve just ordered them from Neiman’s (not that there’s anything wrong with this) but this time I am being more conscious of all of those many children, people and pets in need and am trying to make my money count. Ronald McDonald House offers some charming cards with images painted by the children and families they have helped. The cards come in a box of 24 for only $25. If you’re interested in more info or to order, please call Anne at 773-348-5322.

And now some congratulations are in order! First up is Urban Prep founder Tim King, who has recently been named by People magazine as the “HERO OF THE YEAR! This annual award is bestowed upon individuals who “have found a way to fix the world around them—one life at a time.” And, Chicago’s own handsome, hunky Bally king, Brian Atwood, has been named “Shoe Designer of the Year” by the CFDA! Here’s a Halloween pic of Brian with uber stylist Rachel Zoe and friend Jake Deutsch dressed as Fashion Whores, what else?! Congrats Tim and Brian! 🙂

Speaking of fashion, Mary Ann Murphy, is one of the chicest women I know so it thrilled me to find out she has created her own design firm, House of MAM, which is a virtual lifestyle experience featuring her stunning designs and custom furnishings. And the best news of all is that you can see her glorious pieces at The Haute Launch Event on Thursday, November 11th, from noon until 5 p.m. at 1205 N. Astor! Hosts Hollye Jacobs, Lynne Bredfeldt and Whitney Lasky have assembled star designers such as Graff Jewelers and alligator handbag designer Alexandra Knight for this one-day-only event. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dream Foundation, which makes dreams come true for terminally ill adults. So come out and enjoy a day of fashion with friends! Please RSVP to hautelaunchafternoonrsvp@gmail.com.

Whew, another packed week of events around Chicago! I hope you’re enjoying our beautiful fall weather since we all know it won’t last long and I hope to “see” you next week! Also, I hope you visit my other Candid Candace sites, too, on Chicago Now, Facebook and Twitter!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Globe trotting friends Rachel Schwanz (The Entertaining Co.) and Lynne Bredfeldt (Park Hyatt PR) brightened up the streets of Paris recently. They stayed at the beautiful Park Hyatt Place Vendome, visited hot spots Market, Plaza Athenee, Le Comptoir, Hotel Costes, the new Ralph’s in St.-Germain-des-Pres and Colette all the while looking like visions out of French Vogue! 🙂

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Television, Travel, Web/Tech, Weblogs

November 1, 2010 · 8:55 pm

HEARTS WILL BE BLUHM-ing ALONG MICHIGAN AVENUE SOON!

Last Monday night was really hopping at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab as 300 Chicagoans joined together for a private VIP-studded event to support the launch of the much-anticipated “Hearts a Bluhm” campaign, raising awareness for heart health designed around February’s National Heart Month. “This campaign comes at a time when millions of Americans are affected daily by cardiovascular disease, including thousands here in Chicago alone,” said Dr. Patrick McCarthy, chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery for Northwestern Memorial and director of its Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (the campaign’s presenting sponsor). “Our intent with this bold public art display is to encourage conversations about this disease and its prevention and to celebrate the people whose lives have been saved through proper diagnosis and treatment.” The display will include 100 oversized acrylic hearts, which will “bloom” on public sidewalk planters and thoroughfares. They will be creatively embellished and painted by a sponsoring organization or company and will be accompanied by a heart health education tip. Columbia College Chicago will serve as the exhibit’s artistic partner with students, faculty, staff and alumni expected to decorate a number of the hearts. Columbia College President Warrick Carter said, “This campaign is a wonderful opportunity for our community of artists to stretch their creativity and build their body of work through a public forum and for a very important cause.” At the event, “Women With Heart” honorees were acknowledged by Hearts-a-Bluhm co-creators Julee White of Testarossa Entertainment and Kathleen Henson of Henson Consulting for their incredible achievements and heartfelt stories including: Carrie Birkel, Janet Wood Diederichs, Chaz Ebert, Nancy Glick, Sonya Jackson, Kristina McGrath (who was represented by her twin sis Korinna Isselhardt), Carol “Mickey” Norton, Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz, Brenda Sexton and moi. The who’s who of Chicago were spotted mixing and mingling including Democratic Senate hopeful, Alexi Giannoulias (who ordered up a pound and a half of Joe’s fresh Alaskan king crab legs to go!), Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises founder Rich Melman, Tim and Mary Smithe (Walter E. Smithe), Chilli Pepper, NBC’s Larry Wert, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Sugar Rautbord, Hazel Barr, Mark Gill, Lisa Marie McComb, Sheila O’Grady, Ben Soldinger, Catie Keogh, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Paul Iacono, Joli Burrell, Trevian Kutti, Kay and John Volk, Cole Stolman, Ed Howlett, Mike Wilkie, Lauren Berny, Charley Jordan, LeeAnn Trotter, Marcus Riley, Nicole Townsend and Natasha and Sanjay Sharma among many others. Executive Chef Gary Baca served up heart healthy appetizers including fresh king crab, shrimp, mini-salmon and turkey burgers, mini-crabcakes and chicken spring rolls. Meanwhile, Joe’s dining room was packed with A-listers too including Hollywood funnyman and Chicago native Vince Vaughn and wife Kyla Weber who were enjoying a double date with Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen and his wife Kara. Vince and company enjoyed Alaskan king crab legs, jumbo stone crab claws and newly added dry-aged bone-in ribeye. In another private space at Joe’s this same night was a room full of our very own Chicago Bears led by Brian Urlacher who ordered a champion-worthy spread including bone-in steaks, stone crab and fried chicken. What an action packed night at Joe’s! Whew! For more info on the Hearts a Bluhm campaign, please visit www.heartsabluhm.org and to view ALL event photos by Caitlin Saville, please click here.

StyleChicago.com presented the Art of Fashion 2010 Show last week which introduced some amazing emerging and already-established designers to a packed tent in Millennium Park. Everyone came dressed to thrill in the crowd AND onstage as we watched designers Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein, Borris Powell, Kirk James, Lara Miller, Paul Sisti, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Fraley le and Lydia Wawrzyniak present their Spring 2011 collections. Elda’s collection showed fresh, vibrant colors with super structured gowns inspired by the '50s French couture. Lauren Lein’s collection was positive and upbeat (she even skipped down the runway at the end) and was inspired by a fusion of European and Asian cultures while Borris Powell’s line was very light and feminine but twisted with a dark side. I must admit not everything was to my liking but there was lots of creativity and enthusiasm which was wonderful to see. I predict big things for emerging designer Lydia Wawrzyniak whose collection was unlike anything I’ve ever seen before: It was structured yet feminine and flirty with exquisite shapes and unusual use of fabrics. Congrats to all of these designers who work so hard to put Chicago on the Fashion Map! The show was produced brilliantly, as always, by our own Tracey Tarantino of ZZazz Productions. (Click here to see ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville!)

Common Threads’ Executive Director Linda Novick O’Keefe was honored recently as an ADL Rising Star along with Latoria Carroll (Associate Director, National Diversity and Corporate Responsibilities, KPMG), Sarah Kerr Severson (Partner Schiff Hardin LLP), Julie Parsons (VP Consumer Household, Allstate Corp.) and Michele Ilene Ruiz (Partner Sidley Austin LLP). I was proud to have nominated Linda and I was further honored to present her as a friend and member of Common Threads’ Board of Directors. The event was held at the Alhambra Palace on the “windiest day” in Chicago! They venue lost power and we all had to read our speeches by flashlight. When my friend Linda was in the middle of her speech and as her eyes welled up with tears when she mentioned her darling, proud hubby Nick, the lights magically came back on! Nick not only lights up her life but he can apparently be used as a power source, too! The emcee was one of my favorite and most beautiful friends, Ashley Bond (former Miss Illinois, Luvabull cheerleader and fellow Chicago Now blogger). What a GREAT job she did in the dark! All of the honorees gave very heartfelt speeches about the amazing lives they’ve all led. It was an inspiring day and Linda was surrounded by friends including Chef Art Smith, Jesus Salguiero, Greg Cameron, Greg Thompson, Linda Yu, Marilyn Vitale, Ken O’Keefe, Jason Stephens, Yvonne Cadiz-Kim, Amy Kurzawski, Hollis Turner, Alan Hawksley, Jennifer Newhouse, Peggy Lanigan, Katie Spring, Jane Humzy, Linda Levine, Gwen Farinella, Eleanor Lechenko, Stuart Ellifson, Naushab Ahmed, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan and Charise Studesville among many others.

And speaking of Chef Art Smith, guess who cooked for the Dalai Lama?! None other than Chicago’s own! Art fulfilled a lifelong dream of cooking for His Holiness when he cooked at a luncheon hosted by the Canadian Tibetan Center in Toronto this weekend. Chef Art took husband artist Jesus Salguiero, Table 52 Executive Chef de Cuisine Rey Villalobos, Naushab Ahmed (Allen Brothers Special Events Exec and “At Home With Chef Art Smith” events), Connie Pikalus (Oprah Show stylist), Chef Tal Ronnen (famed vegan chef to Oprah) and Mrs. Bob “Mayari” Pritzker with him on this memorable trip. Art also served the Dalai Lama personally in his room. The dishes included southern fried vegan chicken with local greens and apple cobbler with a buttery short crust, whipped cream and candied spiced pecans. Art’s team bought all local vegetables and fruits for the luncheon. His Holiness spoke of friendship and that friends who are with you through troubling times are precious and rare. What an amazing opportunity, Art…we are so proud and happy for you!

On Wednesday, November 10th, Step Up Women’s Network will host their annual membership celebration at Enclave from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This worthy organization provides mentorship and counseling for underserved teen girls as they make their way in this world. I love their mission statement: “By bridging communities of professional women and underserved teen girls through mentorship, networking and advancement, we ensure women and girls have the opportunities they need to create a better future.” This event will also introduce other like-minded women at a cocktail reception and give them information on how Step Up connects and advances women and girls and how you can get involved. I hope you will join me and, if you’re not a member, will consider becoming one. The event is only $20 for members and $35 for non-members. For more event info, please contact Kristen at Kristen@suwn.org or by calling 312-235-3277.

The dynamic Joffrey Auxiliary Board is hosting a fun event at the Wit Hotel’s Phoenix Lounge on Thursday, November 11th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This party will introduce the Joffrey-tini, with $2 of each drink purchased benefitting the Joffrey Ballet. There will be complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. You can also join the Joffrey Auxiliary Board onsite for a special one-night only discount on membership! Please RSVP by Monday, November 8th to joffreyauxiliary@joffrey.org or by calling 312-386-8979.

The National Museum of Mexican Art will be hosting the “Revolucionarios Awards” on Thursday, November 18th, at the Millennium Stage of the Pritzker Pavilion located at 201 E. Randolph St. from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. These awards will honor exemplary contributions to Mexican art and culture by Alejandro Romero (visual artist), Tanya Saracho (playwright) and Victor Pichardo (musician). A $100 donation is requested which will also include a one-year membership to the NMMA. For tickets and more info, please visit www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org.

Chiara Lima, daughter of legendary Italian chef Mamma Agata, is launching her cookbook, “Mamma Agata,” and unveiling her family’s famous, traditional recipes at a reception at Spiaggia from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on November 8th. Mamma Agata and her family run the famous Hidden Treasure Cooking School on Italy’s Amalfi Coast and have hosted lots of Hollywood legends including Jacqueline Kennedy, Humphrey Bogart, Pierce Brosnan and Fred Astaire. Enjoy a cooking demonstration along with a four course lunch with selected wines. A perfect foodie event for $125 per person with $30 of each cookbook sold, benefitting Common Threads. For more info and to purchase tickets, please visit www.theamalfishop.com/tickets.php.

The 4th Annual Latino Fashion Week presents “Passport to Design Fashion Ball” on November 13th, at Mercedes-Benz of Chicago located at 1520 W. North Ave. with an awards reception beginning at 6 p.m. The program/runway show begins at 8 p.m. with dancing at 10 p.m. Co-executive producers Arabel Alva Rosales and Cesar Rolon promise an action packed night with internationally acclaimed designers, including men’s and women’s designer Carlos Campos. There will be items from the estate of Celia Cruz with a performance by Salsa recording artist, Brian Michaels. Most importantly, the benefactor for this event will be Urban Initiatives, Inc. which supports underserved neighborhoods in Chicago using soccer to motivate children and increase their potential in the areas of physical fitness, health education, academic performance and character development. Please join me in celebrating the Latino fashion industry and supporting Chicago’s youth! Tickets are $175, and can be purchased by visiting www.lfwfashionball.eventbrite.com.

How would you like to see an ADVANCE and private screening of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part I)” AND support another terrific cause?! Well, Urban Prep is offering just this opportunity on November 18th, at the Navy Pier Imax Theater beginning at 5:30 p.m. (movie begins at 6 p.m.)! There will be a private reception immediately following the film at Harry Caray’s Tavern, too (also at Navy Pier). As a member of the Wizengamot Host Committee, I am delighted to offer you this opportunity—normally I would use post owls but I figured the blog might be faster to get the word out! For a donation of $77 (because 7 is the most powerfully magical number), you can enjoy all of this excitement AND benefit Urban Prep Academies. I will be there wearing my Harry Potter gear and I will force my husband to do the same. So bring your wands and make magic happen for Urban Prep whose academies provide a comprehensive high quality college preparatory education to inner city young men with remarkable success. As Dumbledore said to Harry, “Age is foolish and forgetful when it underestimates youth.” Urban Prep hears you, Albus! For tickets and more info, please click here.

We have a lot of exciting events coming up, as you can see, so I hope to see you somewhere around town having fun and doing some good! Until next week…

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. A huge thanks to Alexandra Briguglio of www.Chickagoan.com! She featured me on her fantastic website which encourages women to “feel healthy, live happy and love their city by connecting with and empowering fellow “chicks.” I loved her questions and was thrilled to be included! Enjoy it here. Thanks so much Alexandra for this great opportunity! 🙂

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October 26, 2010 · 8:10 am

OPRAH, TONI MORRISON AND MAYOR DALEY CELEBRATE AT LITERARY AWARDS DINNER

The Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner was originally scheduled to be at the Harold Washington Library, as it was last year, but this year’s program attracted so many people (800!) that it had to be changed to fit the sell-out crowd at the Forum at the University of Illinois campus. I am not surprised since the award recipient was Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning author, Toni Morrison, who was interviewed by none other than Oprah! Cocktails and dinner were served inside a gymnasium and I’ve never seen any gym look this good. The bleachers magically became an amazing light installation and the towers of flowers were at least 10 feet tall. In other words, it was gorgeous! Even the table décor had little library lamps and books by the authors for all of the guests. Co-chairs Cheryl Mayberry McKissack and Jim Tyree welcomed guests and awarded the 21st Century Award to Eula Biss. Her book, “Notes From No Man’s Land,” takes a look at racial identity from multiple angles, during major events in the culture. It recently won the National Book Critics Circle Award. Biss said, “This honor (21st Century Award) is a drop in the bucket for what I owe to the libraries.” President of the Chicago Public Library Board, Jayne Thompson, then introduced Mayor Daley, who was greeted with a standing ovation. The Mayor said, “The spirit of Chicago is not of big shoulders, but of big hearts.” He dedicated his 54th library as Mayor of Chicago last month! (I sure will miss this guy!) After Toni Morrison received her Carl Sandburg Literary Award, presented by co-chair Jim Tyree, Oprah came onstage to interview her. The questions were thought provoking and informative. Morrison had been rejected 12 times for her first book, “The Bluest Eye.” Oprah asked what kept her going. She said, “Arrogance. I wrote this book so I could read it. I saw a gap and I filled it because of this very reason.” She went on to say, “Reading is the beginning of being in the world. It’s how we know things.” She began writing at age 39 and has been writing for 40 years now. She is the author of nine novels and three children’s books. Her novel, “Beloved,” was awarded the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for fiction and in 2006, was named by the NY Times Book Review as the best novel of the previous 25 years. Winfrey produced and starred in the 1998 film based on the book and calls Morrison her “favorite author of all time, living or dead.” Morrison became a professor at Princeton University in 1989 and in 1993 received the Nobel Prize in Literature, making her the first African American to be so honored. The event raised $1.1 million for Chicago Public Libraries. To learn more, please visit www.ChicagoPublicLibraryFoundation.org and click here for more photos.

Bunky Cushing’s Handbags & Halos Luncheon introduced us to yet another fascinating speaker! Judy Lewis is the love child of Clark Gable and Loretta Young. Her story riveted the 150 ladies in the Palmer House’s Empire Room for 45 minutes as she spoke from the heart about the remarkable life she’s led. She began her talk by saying, “I first heard the term ‘love child’ from my daughter Maria in 1971. We were in the car when she asked me who her grandfather was. I had taken her to see ‘Gone With the Wind’ and she fell in love with Gable like the rest of the nation. My mother was single and 22 when she met Clark Gable on the set of “Call of the Wild” at Mount Baker in Washington State. There was a blizzard and everyone was snowed in.” This is when Judy was conceived. You can see from the clip below how much in love they were. In those days, every star had a morality clause and, had the pregnancy become known, both stars would’ve lost their jobs. After the baby was born, Gable disguised himself to visit his child who was sleeping in a bureau drawer at Young’s house in Venice Beach. Gable had always had a fear of being poor so he always carried a wad of cash in his pocket. He peeled off $400 and said to Young, “Please buy her a decent bed.” Loretta Young had to take the baby to an orphanage early on but made them promise to keep her until she could come back to “adopt” her after the pregnancy rumors died down. At age 7, Judy had her ears pinned back. She had inherited her father’s famous ears and her mother never let her go out without a bonnet. Young never admitted Lewis was her real daughter. Judy married, had two children, appeared on Broadway and in the soap, “Secret Storm,” worked on the “Loretta Young Show,” received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University and worked with foster families and adoption agencies after her own heartache. When her mother finally told her the truth about her father, she threw up first and then said, “Now, you must promise not to tell anyone.” What a courageous and charming woman! This event raised over $150K and benefitted the Howard Brown Health Center which is the Midwest’s largest lesbian, gay and bisexual health organization. It is a home for many who feel isolated and where everyone is welcomed. For more info on this worthy cause, please visit www.HowardBrown.org. (Please click here to hear Judy’s story in her own words and click here to view more event photos!)

“Aviators’ Night Out for Sight,” benefitting the Midwest Eye-Bank, was held recently at the Chicago Executive Airport. Co-chairs Franco LaMarca and Anthony Contrucci planned this inaugural event which featured Marquis Jets from the Netjets fleet, exotic cars from Lake Forest Sportscars, live entertainment by world music dance band Vagando, fabulous food, gaming tables and luxury raffles. Designers Horacio Nieto, Akira, Mark Roscoe, Sittar by Gibeon Tolbert, Anastasia Chatzka and Bolani Custom Clothiers presented dazzling collections for men and women. The models strutted their stuff in front of a magnificent G-4 priced at $38 million and seating for 13. Not bad! The gaming tables were filled and I saw beautifully presented food from several restaurants including one of my favorites, RL. Over 200 people came out for this fun party and everyone was dressed to thrill. It was a great night for a wonderful cause! The event raised over $25,000 for Midwest Eyebanks, which is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the restoration of sight. For more info, please visit www.mebtc.org. Please click here for ALL event pics!

Author Lisa Birnbach was recently feted with a launch party to celebrate her latest book, “True Prep.” Sugar Rautbord planned the cutest party requesting that guests dress “preppy” and most of them did since you never say “no” to Sugar! Lisa’s book was excerpted in Vanity Fair magazine and is a follow-up to her bestselling “Preppy Handbook” written 25 years ago. And even though President Obama’s motorcades were wreaking havoc with the traffic, lots of “preppy” guests showed up including Consuelo Pierrepont, Connie and David Coolidge, MK Pritzker, Trish Rooney Alden, Suzette Bross Bulley, Quentin and Diane Primo, Maureen and EB Smith Jr., Howard Tullman, Tom Gorman, Bill Zwecker, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Richard Weinberg, Patti Lambrecht and Larisa and David Kronfeld, John Walcher, Patrick Plante, Scott Bobek, Kerry Bowler, Andrea Schwartz, Karen Williams, Stanley Paul and Ralph Hughes among many others. The event was held at the newly remodeled Mity Nice Grill at Water Tower Place and was co-hosted by Rich Melman and his restaurateur sons RJ and Jerrod. The party also singled out a few Chicago charities as well as some national charities including the Joffrey Ballet, Maggie Daley’s After School Matters, The Primo Center, Chicago Botanic Garden Harvest Ball, The Evergreen Horse Show benefitting women’s programs at Northwestern and the Rush Pres St. Luke’s Fashion Show. As a special treat, Sugar brought in Broadway singer Merrill Grant who cracked up the guests with her animated rendition of two original songs, “When Muffy Gets Blue” and “It’s Mity Nice to be a Preppy” co-written by Sugar. Even the food carried on the theme with éclairs in the shape of Stubbs and Wooton loafers—the ultimate Preppy symbol! As always, Sugar’s party rocked! Congrats Lisa AND Sugar for a creative and fun-filled party! (To order “True Prep,” please click here!) Extra pics by Mitch Canoff…click here!)

The “Inspiring Chicagoans 2010” awards were recently held at the Dana Hotel and presented by TCW and Charles Ifergan Salons. I had forgotten how cool this space is…the outdoor terrace is unmatched with the fire pit and amazing views of Chicago. These awards were given to 19 women who "exude self-confidence and inspire others to strive to better themselves from the inside out, from overall health, fitness or style, to mentorship, charitable work and entrepreneurial edge." They included Karyn Calabrese, Lindsay Avner, Cassandra Gaddo, Melissa Gamble, Sarah Levy, Andrea Metcalf, Angela Rose, Kelli Zink, Ashley Zisook, Jessica Zweig, Marion Simon, Jenn Gibbons, Stephanie Neely and moi among others. It was a wonderful honor and my sparkling crystal award is displayed proudly in my den! It was a fun evening with women who have big dreams and are pursuing and achieving them! Congrats to all of the honorees! To view ALL event pics, please click here! (Pics by Caitlin Saville)

Chicago Cut Steakhouse’s grand opening was a smashing success! It was a perfect night to showcase their beautiful restaurant with its dramatic 100-seat patio at 300 N. LaSalle to the fullest. The views of Chicago and the river are some of the best in the city. The food was to die for and included first class everything and plenty of it. Everyone was oohing and aahing all over the place. The dramatic 6-foot-tall floral displays spilling over with massive red flowers (by Tom Kehoe) matched the red carpet that stretched all of the way to LaSalle Street. I am so thrilled and proud for owners David Flom and Matt Moore. These guys, and their proud investors, have worked tirelessly to make sure that every single detail is perfect and they have succeeded in spades. I’m also thrilled to have the “Hostess with the Mostest,” Meggan Flom, back in her natural role as charming daytime hostess. The menu is a wonderful mix and has something for everyone including their famous steaks which are USDA prime, cut and dry-aged on premises. The restaurant even has a “secret entrance” for workers at the Merchandise Mart and will be open for a “power breakfast,” lunch and dinner. Congrats on a GREAT opening and a wonderful restaurant! Click here for more photos!

My friend Ann Dwyer recently hosted a fun party at Satan’s home, the Jimmy Choo store on Oak Street. I can never go into this place without wanting each and every shoe! But, in spite of this tempting locale, I went to the party anyway and had the best time. The store donated a percentage of the proceeds to Ann’s favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. I was also going to add information about their upcoming "Dream a Little Dream" fashion show but I am happy to report they are completely sold out! Marlo Thomas, Danny’s daughter, will be making an appearance and I know the event will inspire all who attend like it did me last year. For more info on this wonderful cause, please click here.

A decades-old institution is coming to an end. The Van Cleef Hair Studio, which has been around forever, is up for sale. Owner Michael Flowers is an internationally-known hairdresser and one of his biggest clients is First Lady Michelle Obama, who has been coming to Michael since she was 18 years old! He has styled her hair for the biggest events in her life including her wedding, election night and the 2009 Presidential Inauguration. This super cool 8,500-square-foot space at 56 W. Huron has been a chapel, a restaurant, a photo studio, theater and a jazz club owned by Julius Monk. Michael and his partner have purchased a little piece of paradise in Costa Rica and plan on commuting. They are a delightful pair and other clients include Kerry Washington, Marilyn McCoo, Nancy Wilson and Regina Taylor, to name a few. Good luck with your new path Michael! (For info about the space, please call Mitch Serrano at 312-981-2562)

I hope you’ve enjoyed all of this fun news! I found this little video that made me laugh. This walrus looks like I feel when I’m exercising…who knew we had so much in common!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Another delightful birthday celebration was held at RL last week for beautiful friend Jan Flanagan. As it turned out, another friend, Dori Wilson, was there celebrating her birthday with friends as well! And on top of all of this excitement, who should show up, fresh from his Chicago International Film Festival Award win, but versatile and charming actor Alan Cumming! What a fun-filled night, as usual, at RL! Happy Birthday, Jan and Dori!!!!

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October 17, 2010 · 3:52 pm

STARRLIGHT STUDIOS HONORS LATIN LEGENDS

Everyone was dressed so elegantly but then you would expect nothing less at a party given by and for photographer/designer/Art Deco expert/artist/writer Steve Starr. It was a book launch party at Rumba for his latest book and what a perfect spot it was too, since the Latin themed restaurant mirrored the subject matter of the book, “Steve Starr Studios Presents Starrlight: Glamorous Latin Movie Stars of Early Hollywood.” The book, meticulously researched and beautifully designed, presents colorful biographical accounts of cinema stars Rita Hayworth, Lupe Velez, Carmen Miranda, Dolores Del Rio and Maria Montez. Perhaps even more interesting though was the fascinating account of Steve’s own early life. Steve grew up surrounded by Art Moderne and Art Deco elegance. His mother and father looked like movie stars themselves. They had a 10-room apartment on Roscoe that could’ve appeared in Architectural Digest since his mother Gloria had a keen eye for the unique and exquisite as far as décor. She enlisted the aid of famous interior designer Syd Simon to help her create a temple of 1940s Hollywood glamour. Every year they wintered in Miami Beach and, it was there in the old movie palaces, that Steve’s love of film grew. It was no wonder that his store and studio, Steve Starr Studios, originally on Clark Street, showcased his extensive collection of museum quality Art Deco frames which were featured in his first book, “Picture Perfect—Art Deco Frames 1926-1946” and were filled with images of the elegant Hollywood stars that he loves. The A-list crowd of fans, friends and press filled the room to the brim all in honor of “the hardest working man in Chicago.” If you don’t see Steve with his camera around his neck at an event around town, then sadly, you’re probably not at the right party. He is in demand at most of the high profile parties in every neighborhood in Chicago and covers them all with his amazing photography and coverage. You might not always like how much time he takes getting you to pose, but you can bet you will look your best when the shot is published. The lines never stopped at his book signing desk and it was no surprise since his book is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. It is an elegant silver linen bound limited edition depicting over 100 images, including 50 rarely seen photos of the featured actresses, many displayed in his exquisite Art Deco glass frames. He includes iconic film posters, sheet music illustrations and fan magazine covers as well as images of 28 other Hollywood stars famous in a world that no longer exists. Rumba was the perfect spot for this party as it reminded me of old time Miami or Havanna with the conga drums at every booth and the beautiful Spanish tiles on the Ambassador Dining Room floor. Steve’s cake was shaped like a large star with his signature triple “S” in the center. Chef Benjamin Soto’s food was delicious and plentiful and the Argentinian entertainment was superb. There was an exhibition of Tango dance by Daniel Noce and Ramona Nita with music by Los Tropicanos. I can’t wait to see what Steve does next—his creative mind never rests! Congrats Steve and thanks for the memories! To contact Steve or for book info, please call 773-252-5171 or e-mail ssstarrlight@gmail.com. (Please click this link for ALL event photos—additional pics by Caitlin Saville and Mila Samokhina.)

Happy second anniversary to Michigan Avenue Magazine who celebrated in grand style with September cover girl Jennifer Hudson performing. It’s been written up everywhere how gorgeous she looked in person! She was so thin that a friend speculated that the Weight Watchers’ stock would rise dramatically after her appearance at the House of Blues. In fact, the three-tiered anniversary cheesecake was from Eli’s and the top layer was made from Eli’s new “Skinny Eli” in chocolate just for her! At just 110 calories, 3 Weight Watcher points and no trans fat, Jennifer was thrilled that she could eat it! Her voice was in great form too and when she belted out “I Will Always Love You,” all thoughts of Whitney Houston vanished for the SRO crowd. I hadn’t been to the House of Blues in ages and was happy to see that it was still cozy for such a large venue. Our sky box was charming and I loved having friends pop in and out like a surprise party. Admittedly, it was hard to see Jennifer up close and personal but I’m not sure I could’ve survived the crush of photogs and sea of people on the main floor. I saw lots of people I wanted to say hi to but just couldn’t reach. CEO and founder of Niche Media Jason Binn flew in to celebrate along with Mich Mag editor-in-chief Susanna Negovan and publisher Dan Uslan. They proudly introduced Jennifer to the adoring crowd and then that voice…oh my. So happy to see her in grand form for such a happy occasion! Happy birthday, Mich Mag! (Please check this link for ALL event pics. Additional pics by Tasos Katopodis.)

Big news coming in February for Michigan Avenue and Chicago!! Hearts a Bluhm, Northwestern Memorial Hospital/Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute’s heart-themed public awareness campaign, will be a citywide celebration and education program designed around February’s National Heart Month. Oversized and uniquely designed acrylic hearts will “bloom” throughout key high-traffic locations with the help of artistic partner Columbia College Chicago. The heart sculptures will help raise awareness for the proper diagnosis and treatment of heart disease—the leading cause of death in America. They will not only beautify the city but also serve as a reminder for good heart-healthy practices. I hope you can all join us for our VIP Kick-Off event at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab at 60 E. Grand on Monday, October 25th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests will enjoy signature hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and hear remarks from Dr. Patrick McCarthy, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at Northwestern, and Warrick Carter, Ph.D. President of Columbia College. This event will also honor 11 “Women With Heart” who are known throughout Chicago for their “heart” and commitment to giving back. They include Chaz Ebert, Carrie Birkel, Janet Wood Diederichs, Nancy Glick, Sonya Jackson, Kristina McGrath, Carol “Mickey” Norton, Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz, Brenda Sexton and moi. I am so honored to be included in this great group of women. Tickets are $75 with all proceeds benefitting Hearts a Bluhm! For party RSVPs and info, please e-mail amie@hensonconsulting.com or call 630-315-2962. For more info on this campaign or to sponsor a heart, please visit www.heartsabluhm.org. Don’t forget to wear some red to the party!! Hope to see you on the 25th! Goodbye Cows and Refrigerators…Helllllooooo Hearts! Can’t wait!

Chicago Link Productions has done it again! For their second year, there was no shortage of Chicago staples at RJ and Jerrod Melman’s Santa Monica eatery, La Grande Orange, as those with Windy city ties celebrated none other than: Chicago! Four hundred-plus people showed up for this Chicago-LA Link event including celebs David Arquette, Jeff Garlin, Marilu Henner, Jaleel White (“Dreamgirls”), Ian Gomez (“Cougar Town”), Parvesh Cheena (“Outsourced”), Sonal Shah (“Scrubs”), Harry Lennix (“Ray”), D.B. Sweeney (“The Event”) and John Kapelos (“The Breakfast Club”) among others. Even former Chicago Bears Willie Gault and Tim Wrightman, now LA locals, made an appearance. Also in attendance were Second City’s Andrew Alexander and Joyce Sloan, TV director/producer Jerry Kupcinet, writers/producers Jay and Meredith Lavender and emcee Tom Dreesen. The event was produced by Brenda Sexton (formerly of the Illinois Film Office) and presented by eDrop-Off.com owner/creator Corri McFadden among others. La Grande Orange served such local favorites as Eli’s cheesecake, Lou Malnati’s deep-dish pizza, Hub51 burgers, Portillo’s Italian beef, Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab claws and Vienna hotdogs plus La Grande Orange’s signature sushi and tacos. Wow, what a party…so sorry to miss this one! Congrats Brenda for keeping those LA-based Chicagoans from getting homesick! :) (Photos by Mitch Canoff and Jesse Grant…click here for more!)

There are some VERY special birthdays to celebrate this month! First up, the Mayor of Old Town, Shirley Baugher, was surprised for her birthday! Yes, I said it…surprised! She has eyes and ears all over her head and yet a small band of friends/fans managed to surprise her and bring her to tears in the Old Town Triangle Center office! We were all quite pleased with ourselves and her husband Norman and Chris Beer were our co-conspirators. This woman has a heart so big that everyone she knows fits into it. It is a wonderful feeling to be Shirley’s friend. It is a not-so-secret society where we all feel very blessed to be included. Also, look for Shirley’s next book, “The Hidden History of Old Town,” which will be published by History Press out of South Carolina. Congrats, love and happy birthday Shirley! Another wonderful birthday party was planned by Helen Melchior for our dear Joffrey Executive Director, Christopher Clinton Conway, at her beautiful Lake Shore Drive, Nate Berkus-designed home. Christopher has done such an amazing job bringing this company to the country and world’s attention. He works tirelessly on our behalf to make sure the Joffrey’s path is always climbing for the stars. Oh, did I mention the All Stars season is absolutely breathtaking—nice segue, Candace! I went to opening night and you could’ve heard a pin drop during the company’s performance which will include five Joffrey premieres and two world premieres this season. Christopher Wheeldon, a longtime friend of Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, choreographed “After the Rain,” which was danced in its entirety for the first time Saturday night. The pairings were also perfect with real life husband/wife, Victoria Jaiani and Temur Suluashvili, dancing together for the first time in years as well as boyfriend/girlfriend April Daley and Miguel Blanco. The company also performed Jerome Robbin’s “The Concert (or the Perils of Everybody).” We knew they c
ould dance, but now we know they are all born actors too! Reviews are glowing, of course, and the company has never looked better. Well, honey…just buy the tickets (through October 24th at www.Joffrey.org ).

This weekend was also Bill Farley’s birthday. His beautiful wife, Shelley MacArthur Farley, threw a grand party and EVERYONE came! It wasn’t an A-list party, it was an A+ list party. The Jersey Boys performed and his boys gave heartfelt speeches about their dad. The venue, the Modern Wing’s magnificent Terzo Piano, was filled with loving friends on this beautiful Indian summer evening. Happy Birthday Bill! 🙂

Ronald McDonald House Charities is breaking ground on Tuesday, November 9th, for the largest Ronald McDonald House in the world!!! I’m so excited to be a part of this wonderful project and can’t wait to watch this House come to life. Thanks to your support, the House will open in 2012 providing care and comfort for 86 families of hospitalized children every night!! We’ve raised over $17 million of the $30 million we need, and will have lots of fabulous activities in the new year. I will keep you posted and will hope to see you at some of these events as they come up. 🙂

The Art of Fashion 2010 show will be Friday, October 22nd in the Fashion Tent at Millennium Park, located at 201 E. Randolph. VIP party begins at 6 p.m. with general admission beginning at 7:30 p.m. Featured designers showcasing their Spring 2011 collections include Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein, Borris Powell, Kirk James Collection, Lara Miller and Paul Sisti as well as emerging designers Hector-Javier MonArrez, Fraley Le and Lydia Wawrzyniak. The show will be produced by ZZazz Productions’ Tracey DiBuono so you know it will be TERRIFIC! General admission tickets are $35 and VIP tickets are $95…and $20 of every VIP ticket benefits the Service Club of Chicago! For more info, please visit www.StyleChicago.com. Hope to see you there!

I took the week off to do some much-needed housecleaning—no exotic trip here! To start, I transformed our “Silence of the Lambs” basement into something more usable. I’ve also cleaned out almost every closet and crammed-full drawer in the house! But, because of this time off, I’ve got so much to tell you and not enough space! So, sadly, the rest of the news will have to wait until next week! Hope to “see” you then!

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Huge congrats to Chef Art Smith for his amazing Chicago Marathon run! After a 90-pound weight loss, he finished in the top third and ran the course in 4 hours, 32 minutes! (To see his Celebration Party pics, please click here…)

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October 4, 2010 · 8:34 pm

“COUTURE & COCKTAILS” FEATURES CARMEN MARC VALVO AND THE JOFFREY DANCERS!

The 5th Annual Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails” was one of the most exciting and fun-filled parties of the season thanks to this year’s new co-chairs Kristina McGrath and Marci Holzer. They worked tirelessly throughout the year to ensure this event’s continued popularity and they succeeded in spades! The designer for this year’s C & C was the handsome American designer, Carmen Marc Valvo, who brought his Fall 2010 collection that included chic cocktail dresses and glamorous evening gowns in luxurious silks, chiffons and taffetas with beading, brocade and fur embellishments. The hair, styled by Charles Lord (who also did last year’s Pamella Roland show), was a nod to the ‘40’s with the models wearing jaunty little hats over their eveningwear. The party décor was an all white palette and the ballroom was filled with an SRO crowd of almost 600 guests as Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway and Artistic Director Ashley Wheater took to the stage. They thanked Helen Melchior and me, as founding co-chairs, and then introduced Marci and Kristina. They each thanked the people responsible for helping them this year and then the parade of our Joffrey dancers took to the runway. Besides being world class dancers, they are also all world class dressers! Each of their outfits looked like a page right out of Vogue or GQ. The crowd went wild applauding and celebrating them and it was a very proud moment. Carmen Marc Valvo’s fashion show was produced by Lisa Marie of Visual Therapy and it was a very glam affair indeed. I loved the hats on the models wearing evening gowns…it was a cool touch to an elegant look. After the show, Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan took to the stage with her WGN-TV anchor/husband Tom. They made a great pair as they auctioned off the evening’s live auction packages which included four nights and three days in the McGrath Family Chateau in Deer Valley, Utah (plus four United Airlines tickets), a beachfront villa at the Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands (airfare for two included) and finally, a private power lunch with Mayor Daley. I loved the program description for this: “The Daley family is legendary and their mystique rivals the Kennedy’s but, everyone is a winner when it benefits the Joffrey.” And benefit the Joffrey it did to the tune of $54,740 which was the total raised from both the silent and live auctions. Congrats Susanna and Tom! You did a great job! Other silent auction items included tickets to a Notre Dame game, a private dance class for eight with dancer Fabrice Calmels, tickets to a Steppenwolf play, dinner for 10 at the new steakhouse Mastro’s, Bulls tickets, Tony White 18K gold earrings and a private jet for four to Art Basel Miami Beach with VIP all-access among many other exciting offerings. The day before the event, there was also a private book signing with “America’s Next Top Model” judge Nigel Barker and the night of the event, there was a VIP reception with designer. The following day, there was also a private brunch at Neiman Marcus with Valvo as he previewed his spring collection to a group of around 60 women. It was another fabulous year for “Couture & Cocktails” and I would like to congratulate Kristina and Marci along with their fabulous committee for their fundraising efforts which will benefit the Academy of Dance, The Official School of the Joffrey Ballet. The Academy of Dance serves 1,500 students ages 3 to 83 and their after-school programs reach out to 4,000 students from the Chicago Public Schools. Thanks to all who attended and I hope to see you next year for this fun and worthwhile event! To view ALL event photos, please click here.

Love has been in the air this week with a wedding AND a bridal shower. My dear friend and Candid Candace photographer, Caitlin Saville, married her Prince Charming, Brendan Collins, in a love-filled ceremony at St. Mary’s in Lake Forest. There were so many special touches, as only Caitlin would think of, that even extended right down to their shoes! Caitlin’s shoes were blue, as in “something borrowed, something blue” and had yellow soles (which is Brendan’s favorite color). As if this weren’t enough, they were also embellished with crystals ON THE BOTTOM with one shoe saying “I” and the other shoe saying “do”…too cute for words! And then Brendan’s shoes, being the sports nut that he is, had “ND” on one shoe and “score?” on the other since the ceremony ran during the Notre Dame/Stanford game. (Stanford won…) The reception was held at the tony Knollwood Country Club where Caitlin had even chosen the vintage milk glass vases that matched the fabric in her wedding gown! The flowers, in pale shades of peach, white and crème were some of the loveliest I’d ever seen. The groomsmen gave very touching speeches as did the bridesmaids but it was the speech made by Caitlin’s mother, Connie Saville, that had everyone in tears. The love in the room was palpable. Brendan and Caitlin are honeymooning in Hawaii and she sent me a text message showing the ocean from her villa balcony…once a photographer, always a photographer! And they lived happily ever after…congrats Mr. and Mrs. Collins!

A beautiful bridal shower was held in the grand home of Michaela Parillo for Nicole Stege, the stunning daughter of beautiful woman-about-town Lynn McMahan. This was the first event Michaela had hosted in her Burling Street mansion and it was an elegant affair indeed. Her co-host Dede Lubeznik helped organize this wonderful day for Nicole who is a freelance photo stylist. Her fiancé, Rory Brown, is originally from Cape Cod but lives in Chicago and has a master’s degree in Library Science (he works for the public library system here). They are getting married on October 30th in Tulum, Mexico, which is located on the Yucatan peninsula. This quaint town of 10,000 on the Mayan Riviera is Mexico’s most visited pre-Hispanic site dating back to 1200 to 1450 AD. Early in its history, it was an important center of commerce as well as a place of pilgrimage. I can’t imagine how romantic this location will be for Nicole and Rory’s wedding! Oh boy, I was just starting to feel the sun on my face but back to the shower! The tables were laden with flowers and petals and set up in the magnificent dining room off of the dramatic backyard. It was a gorgeous day and the light streaming in from the banks of windows made the home even more dramatic. Happy friends in attendance included Jan Flanagan, Lyn McKeany, Shelley MacArthur Farley, Shauna Montgomery, Mamie Walton, Hazel Barr, Cookie Cohen, Lynda Silverman, Heather Farley, Hedwig Golant, Nina Mariano, Gretchen Jordan, Susan Gohl, Kristina McGrath, Toni Canada, Gayle Anthony, Nicole’s maid of honor Amy Lahoff-O’Brien, Holly Dickens and Diana Barr among others. Michaela and Dede thanked everyone for coming and then Lynn got up to speak. It was a ferklempping moment between mother and daughter and so very sweet. Congrats Nicole…can’t wait to see the wedding pics!!! For more shower photos, click here!

On Thursday, October 21st, the Drake Hotel will be hosting a fashion event from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. called “50 & Beautiful.” This very special catwalk event’s initial fundraiser last year was dedicated to the courageous spirit of Lynn Sage while this year’s event will benefit the Chicago Academy for the Arts. Designers who will be featured include Elizabeth M, Joy Scott Millinery, Fabri Furs, Quinton d’Alexander, Bryan K. Osburn and Lily of Trieste among others. Models will include Dori Wilson, Cookie Cohen, Juell Kadet, Denise Tomasello, Hazel Barr, Dorothy Whealan, Marci Holzer, Sherrill Bodine, Bonnie Gross, Debra Goodman and moi among others. Lynne Jordan will emcee the fashion showcase which begins at 6:30 p.m. and then will be performing with the Shivers. A suggested donation of $10 can be made directly to the foundation or offered at the door the night of the event. For more info on this fun-filled evening of fashion, please contact Shaun Rajah at shaun.rajah@hilton.com and for charity info, please visit www.chicagoartsacademy.org/index.html.

Hef is coming back to his hometown on Friday, October 29th, to the Gene Siskel Film Center (164 N. State) for the 6 p.m. screening of his new documentary, “Hugh Hefner: Playboy, Activist and Rebel.” The film, directed by Oscar-winning documentarian Brigitte Berman, concentrates on his status as a standard bearer for the sexual revolution as well as his lesser known career as a tireless social activist fighting battles for free speech, civil and gay rights, and yes, women’s rights! An array of celebs appear in the film as well as vintage Playmates and clips. Hef will be doing a Q & A after the film and had this to say on Twitter, “It will be a special treat to revisit my childhood and the early days of Playboy with my boys, brother and Crystal.” He will also be visiting PB headquarters, the original Mansion (where I also lived when I first moved to Chicago) and the neighborhood where he and his brother Keith grew up. Th
e film is two hours long and will be shown at the Gene Siskel Film Center from October 29th through November 4th. For more info, please visit www.siskelfilmcenter.org/hughhefner. Hope to see you there! Welcome home, Hef!

Tails in the City owners Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh have planned a BIG October for their four legged friends and the humans who love them! On Sunday, Oct. 17th, they will co-host the first annual charity dog walk, “BARK for Breast Cancer Research,” which will begin at 10:30 a.m. at CosMedic Clinic at 58 E. Walton. And then, on Sunday October 24th, they will host their 7th Annual Halloween Party & Parade. It begins at 11 a.m. at 1 E. Delaware and will include a costume contest for scariest, most glamorous, best duo (pet and parent) and best overall. Could anything be cuter?! A $10 donation will benefit PAWS Chicago. For event info, please click here.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition! Candid Candace will return in two weeks with more fun news from the greatest city in the world, Chicago!!!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Thanks so much to Cover Chicago Magazine’s Mark Rashid for featuring me on two of their magazine covers this month! This magazine is dedicated to covering the people of the fashion and entertainment industry in Chicago and they do it in a big way! (The photos were taken at Elda de la Rosa’s fashion show and are her designs.)

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September 30, 2010 · 8:59 pm

“Who Is Chicago” Party Lights Up Cuvee!

The premier “Who Is Chicago” contest was held at Cuvee this week. I had never been to this club before and it reminded me of my disco days at Faces on Rush Street…lots of slinky lounges and low lighting. In other words, I felt right at home!! This event was hosted by CS Magazine and the dynamic duo of CeCe & Melinda (that is Cece Gonzales and Melinda Joseph) who together have created Raymi Productions (raymi means “event” in Cece’s native language, Peruvian). Between the two of them, they bring a wealth of knowledge to their event planning. Cece has over 10 years of sales, marketing and business development experience while Melinda graduated as valedictorian of Columbia College Chicago with a degree in marketing communications. For this event, they polled various high profile business and social professionals around town and came up with 10 honorees. These honorees cover the philanthropic map in Chicago and include Paula Fasseas (PAWS founder), Juell Kadet (owner and executive vice president of Rogers & Hollands Jewelers, a board member of Ingalls Memorial Hospital Foundation and Fashion Group International, and founder of the Kadet Cancer Research Foundation), Anida “Cookie” Cohen (founding member of Brookfield Zoo Women’s Board, board member of the Chicago Academy for the Arts, Service Club of Chicago and the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind), Rhett Lindsay (associate director of special events and communication for the Test Positive Aware Network), Justin Jacobson (CEO of Platinum Events and board member for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation), Reverend Stan Sloan (CEO of the Chicago House and Social Service Agency and Sweet Miss Giving’s NFP), William Goldstein (chairman of Lodestar Investment Counsel LLC and the Night Ministry and trustee of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra), Molly Riley (executive director of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Greater Illinois), Celena Roldan (executive director at Erie Neighborhood House) and moi! There was wonderful food courtesy of Japonais and decadent cupcakes from Swirlz. Everyone gave very heartfelt speeches and it was wonderful to see so many people committed to so many good causes for our great city! Congrats to all of the honorees! (To see ALL of the event photos and video, please click here.) Additional pics by Caitlin Saville.

Designer Elda de la Rosa’s Fall/Winter 2010 fashion show was SRO at the historical “pink palace” – Edgewater Beach Apartments – this week. Elda is one of my favorite Chicago designers and I wear many of her dazzling creations (two of my cocktail dresses were shown in style features this month for both TCW and Shore Magazine). The collection embraced Parisian fashion classics for today’s modern woman. It featured rich wool fabrics, natural fur embellishments, interesting jacket shapes and luxury silks combined with classic satins and taffetas. Elda also unveiled her new ready-to-wear line, “El,” for professional women on the go which also includes the couture touch with exceptional fabrics and detailing priced from $125 to $200. In other words, there was something for EVERYONE! Elda had this to say, “I’m delighted to share my vision for the fall and holiday season, with the emphasis on classic Parisian style and elegance, my inspiration for the collection. I’m also including a lot of jackets and accessories. In addition to my full length gowns, many of the mid-calf creations feature skirts and dresses that become quite elegant for evening without the jacket.” Paoola Sefir also introduced her unique jewelry collection to rave reviews and Tracey Tarantino of ZZazz Productions produced the show to perfection. Long may you reign, Elda! (To see ALL of the event pics, please click here. Additional pics by Steve Starr and Mark Rashid.)

The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails reception featured the incredibly handsome Nigel Barker, “America’s Next Top Model” judge and world famous photographer, signing copies of his new book for a very appreciative crowd at Neiman Marcus! The book is called “Nigel Barker’s Beauty Equation” and, from the reviews I’ve read, will be a smash hit! There are loads of great pics of past ANTM models including crowd favorite, Shandi. One of the reviewers had this to say: “This is not a fashion and stylist book, but an overall beauty book.” Nigel writes with a “friendly voice” and includes anecdotes and a look at his life experiences that are “funny, sometimes touching and always interesting.” There is also a chapter on photography and lighting and how to always look great in photos. This chapter alone is reason enough to buy the book! This 38-year-old former model is one of the most gracious celebs I’ve met. He took pics with almost everyone in the room and always with a smile on his face. He lives in NY with his wife, Cover Girl model Cristen, and their two children. It’s wonderful to see someone so nice be so successful and I guess his looks don’t hurt him either!!! Good luck Nigel…we’ll be watching! Couture & Cocktails was the following night at the W City Center and was a blow-out! Wait till you see the pics next week! (To purchase Nigel’s book, please click here.)

Steve Starr is hosting a party and everyone wants to come but, sadly, it will be by invitation only!! The party will be on October 10 (10/10/10) at Rumba, 351 W. Hubbard, to introduce his new book, “Starrlight: Glamorous Latin Movie Stars of Early Hollywood.” This book includes amazing photos and colorful biographical accounts of cinema stars Maria Montez, Rita Hayworth, Lupe Velez, Carmen Miranda and Dolores Del Rio. Steve is also the author of “Picture Perfect—Art Deco Photo Frames 1926-1946” published by Rizzoli International. If anyone remembers his incredible store on Clark Street – Steve Starr Studios – then you know how creative he is! His eye for photography and art is unparalleled and he is one of the most coveted event photographers around town. Steve’s photography, Starrlight, appears in various publications including IMAGE Chicago Magazine, Entertainment Magazine, CS Magazine, Red Carpet Concierge, VIA Times, Hoy, Michigan Avenue, Skyline and, I am proud to say, Candid Candace, as well as many other publications and websites. There will be entertainment by Argentine Tango (Daniel Noce and Ramona Nita) and the hostesses for the party include Dori Wilson, Arabel Rosales, Telemundo’s Tsi-Tsi-Ki Felix and moi. Diana Palomar Scott will emcee. Congrats to the hardest working man in showbiz, Steve Starr! Can’t wait to celebrate with him and share the party photos with YOU! (To purchase Steve’s book, please call 773-252-5171 or e-mail SSStarrlight@gmail.com.)

Sports stars are giving back thanks to a unique idea by Scott Norton, prez and founder of Norton Sports Management. Scott is using his influence as an NHL player agent for the last 17 years to encourage his athletes to participate in “Make My Day Mondays.” Scott hopes every Monday, they and their fans will make an effort to help someone in need. The difference in their plan is not to focus on a dollar amount but rather on doing a good deed for someone less fortunate be it buying them a hot meal or donating something they need like a warm winter coat. Scott explains, “People feel they can’t give enough, so they don’t give at all.” Norton utilizes Twitter to broaden the concept through his athletes. Fans can follow L.A. Kings captain Dustin Brown (@DustinBrown23) and St. Louis Blues tough guy Cam Janssen (@CamJanssen55) each Monday to see their good deeds and add your own. It’s a lot like the “pay it forward” concept and I wish Scott all the best on this goodwill endeavor! For more info, please call Scott at 312-330-0329 or contact him via his Twitter handle, @NortonSports.

The “Blissful Wishes Ball” will be on Monday, November 1st, at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel with proceeds benefitting a remarkable organization called Wish Upon a Wedding. This nonprofit is the first wish-granting organization that provides weddings and vow renewals for couples facing terminal illness and serious life-altering circumstances regardless of sexual orientation. By celebrating the courage and spirit of these couples, Wish Upon a Wedding helps them create lasting memories when they need it the most. Their event will begin at 6 p.m. with tickets priced at $100. The evening will include a three-course sit down dinner and open bar with music by the Larry King Orchestra. For tickets and more info, please visit www.wishuponaweddingchicago.eventbrite.com.

I am so proud and thrilled to report yet another magazine accolade for noted makeup artist, brow shaper and all-around super cool lady, Nicole Jacob. Allure calls Nicole “the Second City’s first lady of eyebrows” and I couldn’t agree more! She is featured in their “Best of the Best” article and everyone I know who has been to visit her at the Paul Rehder Salon comes away raving, not only about her incredible skills but also about her uplifting and positive outlook on life. Her infectious laughter can be heard as soon as you enter the Paul Rehder Salon where she works and also sells her own makeup line. She is one-of-a-kind and was also featured in W Magazine last year. The hits just keep on comin’ for the First Lady of Makeup! Congrats and love to you, Nicole!

We went to Viaggio Restaurant at 1330 W. Madison for the first time last week and it is one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago…or anywhere! I felt like I was eating in someone’s home, the welcome was so warm. And the food? Fuggedabout! It was beyond delicious! Executive Chef Victor Perdue, formerly the exec chef at Giannotti’s, creates Southern Italian dishes such as al dente pastas and handmade sausage that will make you feel like you’ve left the country. They were filming a segment of “Check Please!” while we were there celebrating our friend Nadine Epstein’s birthday and we will most certainly be returning! The owner, Sam Villardito, visited every table and seemed to know everyone in the room. And how many restaurant owners do you know who has their cell phone on their card??!!! It was a four-star experience from beginning to end. Happy Birthday, Nadine and Ali!! See more pics from this excellent evening here!

Until next week…

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. September has been verrry, verrrry good to me! I was thrilled to be featured in three magazines for their fashion features: TCW for their “Trendsetters” feature (wearing Elda de la Rosa), Shore Magazine for their “Style Icons” feature (wearing Elda de la Rosa) and ME: In Focus Magazine for their “Influencers” feature (wearing Lanvin). Thanks to ALL for these wonderful honors!