Category Archives: Science

August 16, 2012 · 10:34 am

PLAYBOY DOMINATES GLAMOURCON 53!

…PLUS FIELD MUSEUM’S SUMMER SOIREE, FESTA ITALIANA, CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY AWARD GALA, DIANE LANE STARS AT GOODMAN, ETIQUETTE FOR ALL, RACHEL IS GETTING HITCHED, WINDY CITY LIVE!, A SPECIAL BEAR HUG, BARBARA BATES NEW IDEA FOR FASHION, LOTS OF EVENT NEWS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Glamourcon 53 featured Playboy Playmates (past and present), Playboy Cyber girls and Special Edition models plus pin-ups and it was great seeing some of my fellow Playmates like Janis Schmitt, who was also a Bunny with me at the St. Louis Playboy Club. Patti McGuire, Janis and I were all friends at this wonderful club back in the ‘70s and I’m happy to say we all remain close today. Such is the story for most Playmates I know – their friendships are lasting due to shared experiences and I saw lots of new Playmates making friends-for-life at this weekend affair founded by Bob Schultz. Until I interviewed Bob, I never really knew how Glamourcon, in this format, began. He recounted that for years the event didn’t include Playboy Playmates until Hef walked in one day and “his whole world changed.” Hef walked around the show and commented, “You need Playmates!” and Bob said, “Do you know anyone who could help me with this?” and the rest, as they say, is history. The show now centers around Playmates who are well represented from every era including the early ‘50s, when Playboy first began, to this year’s latest double centerfold Playmates, Beth Williams (8/12) and Shelby Chesnes (7/12), who both busily took photos and signed autographs for the fans. For the first time ever, the opportunity to “Shoot a Centerfold” was presented by two legends of Playboy, Jeff Cohen (former Special Editions Editor) and Gary Cole (former longtime photo director), where they offered amateur photogs the chance to shoot Playmates in lingerie. This event also included a party bus downtown to The Joynt on Saturday night where guests could mix and mingle at this local nightclub with the Playmates. It was a great idea which gave many fans the opportunity to remove a “bucket list wish item” according to Jeff. I love this event, not only because it gives me a chance to see my “sorority sisters” but also because it has the best fans! They are all very knowledgeable and interested in Playboy and its history plus, sometimes, they bring you memorabilia that you never knew existed: Last year, a fan brought a foreign Playboy double cover of mine that I never knew was even published! This year, I received flowers…it’s a fun event for all involved and I can’t wait till the next Glamourcon in Long Beach on November 10th and 11th. (For more info, please visit www.Glamourcon.com or call 425-821-1760. (And a special shout-out to super fans Wil Rivers – who couldn’t make it this year – Larry Armstrong, John O’Neill and our friend from “Support Playboy” – all great Playmate Friends! Seen on the scene were Liz Glazowski (4/80), Amelia Talon (6/12), Jessa Hinton (7/11), Tracy Vaccaro (10/83), Titania Lynn (pin-up), Carlotta Champagne (pin-up), Miss Taylor Wane (adult film star), Seka (vintage adult film star), Vanna Marie (model/actress), Princess Doll (former Guinness Book of World Record holder for largest natural breasts!?!), Patrice Hollis (9/07), Kimberly Spicer (6/99), Ava Fabian (8/86), Cathy St. George (8/82), Deanna Baker (5/72), Heather Knox (1/12), Julie Cialini (1995 Playmate of the Year), Helena Antonaccio (6/69), Kerri Kendall (9/90), Janis Schmitt (2/78), Lorraine Michaels (4/81) and Victoria Valentino (9/63) among many others. (Note: This year's Playmate attendance was down due to the fact that Hef's Midsummer Night's Dream Party at the Mansion in LA was held that Saturday night…glad to know the legend lives on and is still having fun!) To view ALL event pics on Chicago Now, please click here!

The Field Associates of the Field Museum hosted their annual Summer Soiree, co-chaired by Melissa Genova and Katie Sassaman, on the Stanley Field Hall Balcony July 19th. Prospective Field Associates were invited to join active members for this fun evening co-hosted by the Field Museum President’s Leadership Council. More than 100 guests enjoyed not only cocktails and hors d’oeuvres but the opportunity to learn from the museum’s Department of Environment, Culture and Conservation how birds use their bills and adapt to their food sources plus lots of other interesting factoids. Guests also got a chance to tour the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, “Restoring Earth.” This total immersion experience allowed visitors to see conservation efforts from Chicago to South America, to Pacific coral reefs and points in between through the use of huge, breathtaking visuals. (If you haven’t seen this exhibit, it is a must-see!) Partygoers also dressed up in various types of field gear, such as fire suits (used in prairie burns) and hip waders, vests and binoculars (used in wetland surveys) to snap fun pics in the photo booth. Guests seen on the scene included Ryan Tiojanco, Laurie Penalber, Carlin Geremias, Kelsey Phillips, Andrew Critchell, Kelsey Tolmie, Jessie Zhang, Field Museum President/CEO John McCarter, Jeff Korzenik, Jeff Havsy, Jennifer Nolan, Sam Baker, Emily Spector, Sarah Lichtenstein (Field Associates President) and Field Museum Trustee Dave Tolmie. This event’s mission was to engage Chicago’s next generation of civic leaders at The Field Museum. Associates are 21 to 35 years old and share a common desire to learn about, support and advance the Museum’s mission: exploring the Earth and its people. For more info, please click here!

I'd never been to Festa Italiana but according to locals, this was the year to go since it was bigger and better than ever! Produced by Vasta & Associates, this year's 6th Annual Taylor Street Festa Italiana had something for everyone, attracted more than 50,000 during its four day run and was bigger by five blocks. The multiple stages showcased talents that included Moreno Fruzzetti, Tony Spavone, Dominic Mantuano, Aaron Caruso and Packy Angelo Ciaravino. The line-up of pop and rock entertainment included "Chicago's Entertainer" Ron Hawking, Hair Bangers Ball, The Legendary Drifters, Mike & Joe, Liquid Soul, Acoustic Generation, Your Villain My Hero, This Must Be The Band, Jaw Potato, Peter Guerin, John Vincent, Ten Foot Tail, Breakfast Club and Hot Sauce Committee. A fabulous fashion show presented by ZZAZZ Productions' Tracey DiBuono featured all local designers and included exquisite collections from Kate Boggiano, Cettina, Mark Roscoe Design, Loreta Corsetti, Couture Millinery, Paul Sisti Creations, Mona Lisa Boutique and Silver Elements, a jewelry line from accessory designer Marla Lenza Zegart and The Lovehammers' Marty Casey. This was a fabulous production, as only ZZAZZ can do, and had the large crowd cheering with every model run. "I was thrilled to see Festa Italiana Chicago salute Italian food, singers, family and fashion done in a professional production with a salute to Chicago's talented Italian Americans in the fashion industry. From Milan to Taylor Street, they walked in great style," said DiBuono. Fun activities included a grape stomping competition, a meatball eating contest (hosted by presenting sponsors Turano Baking Company and Fontanini) and a bocce ball tournament. Giancarlo Turano II presided over the meatball eating contest with a female participant downing the most sandwiches (eight!) in just two minutes! The food stands were out-of-this-world with pizza, pasta, pork chop sandwiches, Italian-style corn on the cob (parmesan cheese and butter!), steamed clams, gelato, meatball sandwiches, Italian beef and sausage sandwiches, Italian ice, grilled calamari and all of the wine and beer you could drink! There were also stands carrying toys for the kids, jewelry, handmade clothing and handbags among many other offerings. A portion of the proceeds benefitted the University Village Association, a non-profit dedicated to improving the economic and residential development of the neighborhood. I was thrilled to be there covering this magical festival for my show, "Candid Candace Chicago," on Chicago's ONLY online network, Watch312.com! (Stay tuned for a fun segment!) Special thanks to Rebecca Kussmann (Bettie Bomb PR) and Stephanie Krol (SKPR) for bringing this lively event to my attention – you can bet I won't miss it NEXT year! (Photos by Robert Milkovich and, for more pics, please click here!)

The Friends of Chicago State University will be hosting their 18th annual Friends of CSU Award Gala on Thursday, September 20,th at the Hyatt Regency Chicago (located at 151 E. Wacker) with a reception beginning at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. This year’s honorees are Women in the Business of Transforming Lives and the deserving ladies are Valerie Van Meter (Corporate Honoree) and Stella Foster (Community Honoree). FOX Chicago’s Robin Robinson will emcee and Terisa Griffin will perform. For tickets and more info, please visit www.csu.edu/fo
undation/ or call 773.995.3839.

Last year, beloved designer Barbara Bates filled the room for her 25th anniversary in business at her annual Barbara Bates Foundation Fashion Show and this year will be no different with reservations already flying out the door! After being diagnosed with breast cancer herself, Barbara has extended her philanthropic reach to support the cause of breast cancer research and treatment so this year, her show will feature her gorgeous designs on models who are also breast cancer survivors. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Lynn Cancer Research Foundation and Mt. Sinai Hospital; additionally, she will continue her support of students by providing prom attire. I hope to see you at Prentice Women’s Hospital at Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Sunday, October 28th, from 2 to 6 p.m. For tickets and more info, phone 312.808.8091 or vist www.barbarabatesfoundation.org.

There she was, standing at the sink with chicken juice all over her fingers and in a crappy mood, when he came back from Costco and announced he’d bought a gift for himself – a sub-woofer for their home theater system. She thought, “Just GREAT!” and continued to decimate the chicken…until he said, “I got a gift for you, too.” As Rachel Schwanz turned around, she saw her boyfriend of two years, Chef James David De Marte, go down on one knee offering her a tiny box. As she pulled her hands OUT of the chicken, she asked, “You’re doing this now?!” He did indeed propose and squeezed the ring onto her salmonella-covered finger amid many tears of joy. As Rachel said, “It’s classic that a chef proposed to me in the kitchen, of course!” I adore both of these successful, dedicated and beloved people and wish them a lifetime of happiness! They will have a small wedding in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, on April 20, 2013…Mrs. Rachel De Marte sounds really, really good, don’t you think? Congrats to you two lovebirds!

Save the date, Monday, September 24th, for the Goodman Theatre’s Season Opening Benefit which will feature a performance of “Sweet Bird of Youth” by Tennessee Williams, directed by David Cromer and starring Diane Lane and Finn Wittrock. The night will begin with cocktails and dinner at the Standard Club (located at 320 S. Plymouth Ct.), followed by an 8 p.m. performance at the Goodman Theatre (located at 170 N. Dearborn). Benefit honorees are Sandra P. Guthman (President of Polk Bros. Foundation) and Nikki Will Stein (Executive Director of the Polk Bros. Foundation) and the event will be co-chaired by Vicki Hood and Carol Prins. For tickets, starting at $500, or more info, please call 312.443.3811 (ext. 586) or email KatieFrient@GoodmanTheatre.org.

Everyone needs to know some etiquette skills and, sadly, from what I’m seeing lately, not everyone has been taught these all important life skills. But, happily, Akilah Easter is ready and waiting to teach us! “People always tell us to act like a lady, but what if we were never taught just HOW to act like one?” said Easter. With 15 years of her life immersed in etiquette and charm schools, she is uniquely qualified to help. EtiquetteFemme is a new charm and etiquette school coming to Chicago that will offer 1-Day Adult, Teenage, Mother/Daughter and Father/Son courses which will focus on topics that include beauty, charm, fashion, manners, general etiquette and more. Classes are $75 for a 3.5-hour course. For more info, please call 312.593.0879 or visit www.EtiquetteFemme.com.

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a weekend of activities that will include a Centennial Gala Dinner Dance on Saturday, September 8th at the Intercontinental Chicago, located at 505 N. Michigan Avenue. The weekend will honor Rear Admiral Susan Blumenthal, M.D. (Discovery Award), Henrietta Lacks (Posthumous Recipient), Ruth Rothstein (Public Health) and Dr. David Feinberg (Leadership Award). For tickets ($200) and more info, please click here!

What a thrill it was to return to ABC’s "Windy City Live" recently to talk about Glamorama! Val Warner and I chatted in the Living Room about what to expect at the city’s biggest fashion extravaganza which you will also see on Watch312.com…coming soon! Also, please tune into WGN radio at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, August 17th, when I return for a segment with fabulous host John St. Augustine! I’ll be talking about all things Chicago so I hope you’ll listen AND call me at 312.591.7200. 🙂

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Beauty secret alert!! My friend Janet Lupo (Playboy’s Miss November 1975), besides being drop dead gorgeous, has always been known for her unbelievably soft, glowing skin. So much so, that she was recently approached by a company to bottle her secret! So, happily, her Fountain of Youth Body Oil is now available online – I can’t wait to try it and will let you know the outcome! Good luck, Janet!

I know these are called the dog days of summer but I’m not giving up yet! We have too many places to go and too many things to do! Hope you’re enjoying every minute of it!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Eleven-year old Austin Smith loves to dance! He takes classes at The Joffrey Ballet and, very recently, became a very young philanthropist: He donated proceeds from his entire birthday party (amounting to $500) to sponsor the Bear Hug of a young girl who will now be attending a Nutcracker performance thanks to Austin’s love and generosity! What a very special young man! (The Bear Hugs Program supports current cancer patients (ages 0 –19), as well as their immediate families, who face the many challenges that accompany the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancer. To find out how YOU can help too, please visit www.BearNecessities.org.

THE LADYBUG BASH’S “STARS & CARS” – HUNDREDS TURN OUT TO CELEBRATE WITH ATIA!

…PLUS ART INSTITUTE’S DOUBLE BLOW-OUTS, STEPPENWOLF’S STAR-STUDDED NIGHT, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S PENTHOUSE PARTY, THE LOCAL TOURIST CELEBRATES 10, HUBBARD STREET DANCE'S SPOTLIGHT BALL, BRIAN ATWOOD, SMITHE FAMILY’S “RUN HOME CHICAGO” PARTY, WOMEN’S BOARD OF FIELD MUSEUM’S “SPARKLY” LUNCHEON AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a night filled with celebration, hope and inspiration for the second Annual Ladybug Bash held this year at Grossinger City Autoplex on Thursday night. Host and organization founder Dina Manzo greeted each and every guest on the red carpet in a stunning champagne colored gown by Rivini. Dina, as I’m sure you know is filming the second season of HGTV’s “Dina’s Party,” which is about Dina’s many event planning adventures. She is also a former star of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” This one-woman powerhouse founded Project Ladybug in New Jersey in 2007 with the wish to bring financial and emotional support to children undergoing rigorous cancer treatments and their families. Atia Lutarewych, the four-year-old pint-size namesake for Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, was there on this night, in full remission after battling cancer for two years beginning at the tender age of 17 months. WGN Morning News’ “Around Town” reporter Ana Belaval was one of the hosts for the evening that also included Alpana Singh, host of WTTW’s “Check, Please!” (BTW, Alpana will become a restaurateur this summer when she and her partners open The Boarding House restaurant at 720 N. Wells!) This year’s Ladybug Bash, themed “Stars & Cars,” also included Ms. Illinois 2012 Amber Podell, Miss Illinois 2012 Nancy To and Mrs. Illinois 2012 Jennifer Cruz. There were a lot of crowns and gowns in that room! The food stations were never ending with something delectable on all three floors from restaurants that included Bistronomic, Orso’s Italian, Sunda, Uncle Julio’s, Wildfire, Market, D’s Sweet Berries, D’Casa, Burger Bar, Currents on the River, Hubbard Inn, Le Chocolat, Paradise Cantina and Punky’s Pizza & Pasta. There were also dazzling vintage GM cars illustrating automobile luxury over the years that included a 1937, 1958 and 1973 Cadillac plus a 1927 Buick. Entertainer Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino performed “A Tribute to Dean Martin” that included funny impersonations of Jerry Lewis, too. All throughout the venue, Ford models showcased chic designs from AKIRA, one of Chicago’s premier fashion houses, while guests perused the extensive silent auction. Dan Colantone of Tone Productions DJ Services donated his musical talents as well as the Mike Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band and singer/songwriter Erica Iozzo. Celebrity impersonator Debborah Hopkins was stunning as Marilyn Monroe! Grace Melon, a young cancer survivor, gave a riveting account of her long and arduous journey with a Broadway-worthy performance following. Grace’s first round with leukemia began at the age of two. She was treated for two and a half years and was cancer free from age 5-12 when the cancer returned in July of 2008. She is now cancer-free, a freshman in high school and a professional actress, having signed on with Gray Talent Group at age 13. She has also initiated her own project to help kids with cancer. It was a wonderful night of fun for a great cause with proceeds benefitting the mission and ongoing programs offered by Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital. (To view more pics, please click here!)

The Art Institute's Women's Board ALWAYS plans spectacular and creative events but on Friday, May 11th, they hosted TWO back-to-back parties at the Modern Wing! The night began with a gala for 600, co-chaired by Caryn Harris and Stephanie Field Harris, celebrating the opening of the largest exhibition of artist Roy Lichtenstein's works to date. The colorfully clad, creative, black-tie crowd had a first look at the 160 works in the exhibition that included never-before-seen drawings, paintings and sculpture. Stunning decor by Bill Heffernan transformed the place into a pop-art explosion with many guests dressing the part in polka dots to echo the Ben-Day dots in some of the artwork. Following dinner, guests moved upstairs to Terzo Piano where the Crash the Gala after-party was already in full swing with more than 400 guests taking advantage of the “after-party only” ticket pricing. Internationally renowned DJ Jesse De La Pena (who, coincidentally, played at Ikram's big 10th anniversary party at the Hudson Club last year) had everyone on the dance floor. Here, decadent decor by Tom Kehoe delighted the partygoers along with fun food from Bon Appetit that included hot dogs, popcorn, platters of bacon, pizza, ice cream and mo
re! Lucky guests were also treated to special performances by burlesque dancer Ray Ray Sunshine and cross-dressing entertainers Paul and Dan. (To see ALL photos by Bob Carl and Dan Rest, please click here! ("Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective" runs through September 3rd.)

Chicago Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster was honored by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans with the coveted Dante Award at Galleria Marchetti on May 17th. There were so many in attendance that the valet parkers had to close up shop for lack of space! Every year, the Human Relations Committee presents the Dante Award to a member of the local news media who fulfills Italian philosopher Dante Alighieri's call to be “no timid friend to truth.” And we sure know our Stella is NOT afraid of the truth! I love her column (who doesn't?) with her tagline “Yeah, I said it!” Past recipients include her old boss/mentor Irv Kupcinet, Walter Jacobson, John Madigan, Hugh Hill, Dick Kay, Joan Esposito, Emily Barr, Larry Wert, Joe Ahern, Merri Dee, Dominic Mancuso, Frank Mathie, Vince Gerasole, Janet Davies, George Caputo, Mark Giangreco, Allison Rosati and Ron Magers. JCCIA's illustrious members include Dominic DiFrisco (President Emeritus), Antonio Romanucci (President) and Jo Ann Serpico (Executive Director). Stella's column has been appearing in the Sun-Times since 2003 every Tuesday and Thursday and we just love her! Congrats on this much-deserved honor Stella! (To view ALL great pics by Steve Starr, please click here!)

The Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo recently held a Preview Party in the Hilton Chicago’s penthouse to celebrate its upcoming Zoo Ball, which is planned for July 13th. It was hosted by Zoo Ball co-chairs Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Ross Polayes. Mark Walter, CEO of Guggenheim Partners (the presenting sponsor of Zoo Ball 2012) and new controlling owner of the LA Dodgers, was in attendance with his wife, Kimbra. Guests sipped on cocktails and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while taking in the spectacular view and toasting to this year’s Zoo Ball, themed “The Great Gatsby.” Guests seen on the scene included John Alexander, Kevin Bell, John Fornengo, Gale Gottlieb, Michaela Parrillo, Gayle Anthony, Windy Krimins and Abby Zanarini. This is always a fabulous party with great people watching to benefit Lincoln Park Zoo, the oldest zoo in the country and one of the last free public institutions in America. (For more details, please visit www.lpzoo.org and to view more pics, please click here!)

To celebrate a decade online, The Local Tourist is inviting visitors and residents to tour Chicago like a Local Tourist with Passport To Chicago. On June 3, you can enjoy exclusive events and deals at destinations all over Chicago, getting your pages stamped at each place you visit. Each Passport comes complete with a CTA day pass and one free ride from Uber, the new car service that’s taking Chicago by storm. Those who purchase their Passports in advance will also get an “I’m A Local Tourist” sling bag for free! Passport To Chicago provides exclusive access to the Official After Party at local hot spot Public House but the celebration doesn’t end there: There are so many places to go and things to do that there's no way to do them all in one day – that's why the Passport To Chicago is good for a whole year! From June 4, 2012 to May 31, 2013, these businesses are offering even more special discounts. All of this exploring is for a good cause since The Local Tourist is donating a portion of every Passport to participating local charities! This all-inclusive package is just $35. For more information on TLTen and Passport To Chicago, including beneficiary charities and businesses, visit www.passporttochicago.com.

The 21st annual Facing History and Ourselves benefit dinner welcomed more than 750 civic and corporate leaders to the Hyatt Regency on May 1st. The event raised over $1.95 million in support of Facing History’s wide-reaching educational programs and marked the Chicago kick-off of the organization’s nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibition, Choosing to Participate, which will be mounted at the Harold Washington Public Library, located at 400 S. State, from August 27th to November 11th. Co-chairs for the initiative are AON President/CEO Greg Case and Loop Capital Markets CEO Jim Reynolds. Guests enjoyed an evening that began with a reception and cocktails, followed by dinner and a presentation by acclaimed novelist Erik Larson, author of “The Devil in the White City” and “In the Garden of Beasts.” The speaking program also included remarks from Facing History Director Bonnie Oberman and Loop Capital Markets Pres/co-founder, Albert R. Grace, Jr. Facing History and Ourselves, which was originally founded in Boston by Margot Stern Strom, established a Chicago office 21 years ago. Co-founded by Judy Wise and Karen Harrison, the Chicago office has trained more than 3,000 local educators through its programs since 1990. These teachers annually reach more than 300,000 middle and high school students in over 175 public, religious and independent Chicago schools. (For more info, visit www.facinghistory.org and for additional pics, click here.)

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago hosted its annual Spotlight Ball at the Hilton Chicago with more than 450 of Chicago’s movers and shakers, including the Mayor who served as Honorary Chair. Co-chaired by Craig Duchossois (CEO of the Duchossois Group) and Don Thompson (President/COO of McDonald’s Corp.), this event raised more than $700,000 to support the dance company’s education, community and artistic programming. Emceed by longtime supporter, ABC 7’s Ron Magers, the evening kicked off with cocktails and a silent auction that featured a seven-night trip to Brazil. Guests were also treated to a unique performance choreographed by some of Hubbard Street’s most prominent talents: resident choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo and Taryn Kaschock Russell, director of Hubbard Street 2, followed by a three-course dinner prepared by Hilton Executive Chef Mario Garcia. Don Thompson presented the Spotlight Award to Jeanne and John Rowe, who delivered a powerful speech about the importance of supporting the arts. Target Group VP Mary Farrell-Tarbox accepted a Spotlight Award for her company’s commitment to improving access to the arts. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, under artistic director Glenn Edgerton, celebrates 34 years as one of the most original forces in contemporary dance. (Photos by Bob Carl.)

Walter Smithe, son Tim Smithe and family recently hosted a Kick-Off party at their Lincoln Park showroom to launch the 30-day countdown for “Run Home Chicago,” a race to end homelessness, that will take place in Soldier Field on June 10th beginning at 7 a.m. Tim’s fabulous wife, Mary Astor Smithe, was on hand to offer her delicious Chicago Butter Cookies (with a chocolate fountain, no less!) to guests who included Chicago Bears Earl Bennett and Israel Idonije, Eda Davidman, Police Supt. Garry McCarthy and his daughter Kyla, Quentin Primo III, Ravi Baichwal and Susanna Negovan, among many others. Everyone enjoyed lively music, food and drinks donated from local Chicago businesses including Tavern on Rush, Swirlz Cupcakes, Tito’s Vodka, Four Roses Bourbon and PRP Wine. “Run Home Chicago” is hosted by the Primo Center for Women and Children, a shelter on Chicago’s West Side that provides transitional housing, counseling and support services to homeless women and their children. The event will honor the Mayor and his wife, Amy Rule, as chairs of the race. Participating in the race will help to raise funds for facilities such as PCWC that provide essential social services to Chicagoans hardest hit by homelessness. (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click here and for more info, please visit www.runhomechicago.com.)

Steppenwolf Theatre Company hosted more than 500 guests for its annual star-studded gala on May 5th. The event kicked off with a showcase of scenes inspired by the world-premiere production of “The March,” based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow, adapted for the stage and directed by ensemble member Frank Galati, and featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Ian Barford, Martha Lavey, Mariann Mayberry, James Vincent Meredith and Alan Wilder. Following the performance, the party moved two blocks south to Blackhawk on Halsted, a 15,000-square-foot space featuring theatrically-inspired décor by Event Creative and a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline. There, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering and the awesome, annual live auction led by auctioneer Michael Davis of Hart Davis Wine Co. It featured once-in-a-lifetime adventures with Steppenwolf ensemble members and artists and included an on-set visit to the hit Starz original drama “Boss,” filmed here in Chicago starring Kelsey Grammer, plus autographed scripts as a memento of the day; exclusive dinner with comedian Jeff Garlin (star and executive producer of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) with dinner prepared by five-time James Beard Award nominee Chef Michael Kornick; four tickets to the NY opening of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (the 50th anniversary of the original Broadway production premiere) plus hotel and airfare; and an exclusive evening on the Steppenwolf stage with co-founder Gary Sinise and ensemble member Moira Harris with a gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Trotter! The evening wrapped up with dancing and live music by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gala 2012 co-chairs included Richard and Margery Feitler, Rita and Scott George and Carol and John Walter while Liz and Eric Lefkofsky were the Live Auction Sponsors. This year's Gala raised more than $1 million! (To view ALL event pics by Joan Hackett and Kyle Flubacker, please click here!)

The Women’s Board of The Field Museum is raising funds for its annual Women in Science Fellowship with a program and luncheon at the Museum on Wednesday, May 30th. To kick-off this event, members gathered in early April at Harry Winston in Chicago with its VP Diana Hall to view A.V. Shinde’s iconic designs. This year’s event, co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, will showcase the remarkable designs of Shinde, renowned jewelry designer for Harry Winston from the 1960’s through the end of the century. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. in the James Simpson Theatre with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers include Reema Keswani (expert on Indian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde) and Anthony Ledru (Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston). An Indian-themed luncheon will follow in Stanley Field Hall. This year’s Women in Science Fellowship winner is Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord. (Photos by Steve Starr.) Individual tickets are $125, tables of 10 are $1,250. (For more info, please call 312.665.7135 or email womensboard@fieldmuseum.org.)

The Chicago Sinfonietta will kick off its 25th anniversary with an UnMasked Ball on Saturday, June 2nd, celebrating the Colors of Sounds at the Fairmont Chicago, located 200 N. Columbus Dr. The event will be co-chaired by civic leader Sandra Rand and Maria Green, V.P. General Counsel and Secretary of Ill. Tool Works. The evening will begin with cocktails and an array of one-of-a-kind masks from productions of other Chicago arts organizations including Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, National Museum of Mexican Art, Red Moon Theater, Chicago Dramatists, Muntu Dance and more. The Ball will also feature a full performance of the Chicago Sinfonietta under the baton of Maestro Mei-Ann Chen; Eric Goldberg and Shuya Gong will join the orchestra as featured soloists. (Tickets begin at $400 and are available by calling 312.236.3681, ext. 1559 or by clicking here.)

Mark your calendars now for one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year – Glamorama! Coming on Friday, August 10th to the Chicago Theatre at 175 N. State St., this year’s theme is “British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now!” From the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, Macy’s Glamorama 2012 pays homage to some of the world’s most well-known and respected British pop icons from the past 50 years. Macy’s Glamorama is an hour-long, high end fashion show and musical production that unveils Macy’s latest fashions but also showcases heart-stopping dance, lush visuals, staging as well as exciting musical performances – I will let you know WHO shortly! The event will once again benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Be the first to get your tickets with the American Express Exclusive Pre-Sale from May 30th through June 7th. Ticket prices are $50 and $75 for show only; $175 and $285 for show and after-party; $1,000 for VIP show and after-party. BUT FIRST, join me and our dynamic Host Committee for another fabulous GLAM LAUNCH PARTY on Friday, June 8th at Greenhouse Loft, located at 2545 W. Diversey Ave. We will have a surprise musical guest, Rosemary Fanti illustrations, fun food, fashion presentations by Elda de la Rosa, Borris Powell, Anna Fong, M2F and Azeeza, photo booth, fabulous Glam guests and so much more!! Please purchase tickets here but to see what you missed at LAST year's Launch Party, please click here.

The Chicago International Film Festival presents CineYouth Festival beginning on May 31st and running through June 2nd. The opening night presentation will be at AMC River East 21, on Thursday, May 31st beginning at 7 p.m. and featuring director Jonathan Levine (“The Wackness,” “50/50”). There will be a screening of selected clips followed by a Q & A with a reception following at Lucky Strike Lanes. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.cinemachicago.org/cineyouth.)

This has been the busiest month I’ve ever seen on my calendar! From May 4th to May 12th alone, there were more than 15 gala events!! As you can see, I tried to bring the best pics and info from MOST of them to you this week! I hope you enjoyed it and I hope your gardens are flourishing! Our wisteria has never looked lovelier! Happy Spring!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Under the “It’s About Time!” category, proud mom Dusty (Yolanda) Stemer reports that her super handsome, hunky shoe designer son, Brian Atwood, will have his first stand-alone store coming to New York’s Madison Avenue in the fall. I can only imagine the lines! Congrats Brian – we all love you and hope Chicago is NEXT!!! 🙂

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Science, Sports, Television, Travel, Web/Tech, Weblogs

Tagged as 50/50, A.V. Shinde, Abby Zanarini, Akira, Alan Wilder, Alana Arenas, Albert R. Grade Jr., Alejandro Cerrudo, Allison Rosati, Alpana Singh, Amber Podell, Amy Rule, Ana Belaval, Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino, Anna Fong, Anthony Ledru, Antonio Romanucci, Aon, Art Institute of Chicago Women’s Board, Atia Lutarewych, Azeeza, Bill Heffernan, Bistronomic, Blackhawk, Bob Carl, Bon Appetit, Bonnie Oberman, Borris Powell, Boss, Brian Atwood, British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now!, Burger Bar, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol Walter, Caryn Harris, Charlene “Charlie” McCord, Check Please!, Chef Charlie Trotter, Chef Mario Garcia, Chef Michael Kornick, Chicago Bears, Chicago Butter Cookies, Chicago Dramatists, Chicago International Film Festival, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Chicago Sinfonietta, Chicago Sun-Times, Choosing to Participate, CineYouth Festival, Craig Duchossois, Crash the Gala, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Currents on the River, Cynthia Ross Polayes, Dan Colantone, Dan Rest, Dante Alighieri, Dante Award, D’Casa, D’s Sweet Berries, Dean Martin, Debborah Hopkins, Dianna Hall, Dick Kay, Dina Manzo, Dina’s Party, Dominic DiFrisco, Dominic Mancuso, Don Thompson, Duchossois Group, Dusty Stemer, E.L. Doctorow, Earl Bennett, Eda Davidman, Edward Albee, elda de la rosa, Emily Barr, Eric Lefkofsky, Erica Iozzo, Erik Larson, Event Creative, Facing History and Ourselves, Food for Thought Catering, FORD Models, Four Roses Bourbon, Frank Galati, Frank Mathie, Gale Gottlieb, Garry McCarthy, Gary Sinise, Gary Sinise and the Lt Dan Band, Gayle Anthony, George Caputo, Glamorama, Glenn Edgerton, Grace Melon, Greenhouse Loft, Greg Case, Grossinger City Autoplex, Guggenheim Partners, Harry Winston, Hart Davis Wine Co., HGTV, Hubbard Inn, Hubbard Street 2, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Hugh Hill, Ian Barford, Ikram, In the Garden of Beasts, Irv Kupcinet, Israel Idonije, James Beard Award, James Vincent Meredith, Janet Davies, Jeanne Rowe, Jeff Garlin, Jennifer Cruz, Jerry Lewis, Jesse De La Pena, Jim Reynolds, Jo Ann Serpico, Joan Esposito, Joan Hackett, Joe Ahern, John Alexander, John Fornengo, John Madigan, John Rowe, John Walter, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Jonathan Levine, Judy Wise, Karen Harrison, Kelsey Grammer, Kevin Bell, Kimbra Walter, Kyla McCarthy, Kyle Flubacker, LA Dodgers, Ladybug Bash, Larry Wert, Le Chocolat, Liz Lefkofsky, Liz Sharp, Loop Capital Markets, M2F, Margery Feitler, Margot Stern Strom, Maria Green, Mariann Mayberry, Mark Giangreco, Mark Walter, Market, Martha Lavey, Mary Astor Smithe, Mary Farrell-Tarbox, McDonald’s Corp., Merri Dee, Michael Davis, Michaela Parrillo, Mila Samokhina, Mile Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band, Modern Wing, Moira Harris, Muntu Dance, Nancy To, National Museum of Mexican Art, Orso’s Italian, Paradise Cantina, Passport to Chicago, Paul and Dan, Primo Center for Women and Children, PRP Wine, Public House, Punky’s Pizza & Pasta, Quentin Primo III, Rahm Emanuel, Ravi Baichwal, Ray Ray Sunshine, Red Moon Theater, Reema Keswani, Richard Feitler, Rita George, Rivini, Ron Magers, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Rosemary Fanti, Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective, Run Home Chicago, Sandra Rand, Scott George, Spotlight Ball, Stars & Cars, Stella Foster, Stephanie Field Harris, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Steve Starr, Sunda, Susan Clark McBride, Susanna Negovan, Suzanne Meder, Swirlz Cupcakes, Target Group, Taryn Kaschok Russel, Tavern on Rush, Terzo Piano, The Boarding House, The Devil in the White City, The Great Gatsby, The Local Tourist, The March, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, The Wackness, Theresa Carter, Tim Smithe, Tito’s Vodka, Tom Kehoe, Tone Productions DJ Services, Uncle Julio’s, University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital, UnMasked Ball, Vince Gerasole, Walter E. Smithe Furniture, Walter Jacobson, Walter Smithe, Wendy Krimins, WGN Morning News, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolfe?, Wildfire, Women in Science Fellowship, Women;s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo, Women’s Board of the Field Museum, WTTW, Zoo Ball

February 18, 2012 · 11:12 am

THE MCA’S artEDGE GALA IS THE TALK OF THE TOWN!

…PLUS BLACK CREATIVITY GALA, AUSTRALIA BALL, BUNKY DOES IT AGAIN, POOR HEF, TCW SINGLES ALERT, A FILM PREMIER FOR SHOE LOVERS AND MORE!

You always expect something creative when you receive an invite from the Museum of Contemporary Art – after all, this is what they’re all about! – but no one could’ve anticipated the excitement that their latest fundraiser, artEdge, produced. Co-chaired by Liza and Marc Brooks, Penny Pritzker, Anne and Don Edwards and Bryan Traubert, this event brought out 600 fashionably funky art-loving supporters. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his lovely wife, Amy Rule, were honorary chairs and took this job very, very seriously. As the co-chairs spoke onstage during the cocktail hour, they playfully spoke to one another in the background. The Mayor, dressed chicly in black jeans, a black sport coat and a white shirt, seemed clearly at ease in NON-black-tie attire and even thanked the co-chairs for this dress code. (A standout was Jay Franke, who wore a brightly dyed wig of dreadlocks and red sunglasses with pink socks.) Guests entered the event through the tented Sculpture Garden after parking their cars with the complimentary valets. (And there was an army of them waiting which was very smart considering the ticket price was $1,000 per person!) The décor by Heffernan Morgan made you feel like you were inside a giant ice palace with everything (and I mean everything!) covered in plastic. This included chandeliers, tables, floors, walls and table fixtures, all of which had been recycled, and would be again once the benefit ended. During this glamorous cocktail reception, guests were treated to a special presentation from renowned artist Nick Cave and his Soundsuits. If you haven’t had the good fortune to witness one of these Soundsuits up close and personal, you are really missing something very, very cool. The larger than life, colorful living sculptures are all made of found materials and have their own individual sounds as they move through a crowd. The “Su
its” draped themselves over balconies, on benches and danced with the guests much to the delight of all. (One of Cave’s Soundsuits recently sold at a gallery for over $50K.) Following this exciting performance art, guests were guided into the museum for a seated dinner, courtesy of Wolfgang Puck himself, who made a rare appearance. Dinner guests were seated at long communal tables with a frame of light above each that reminded me of a star’s dressing room. The delicious menu consisted of heirloom beets, roasted chicken, wild mushroom spoon bread pudding, caramelized yams, chestnuts and braised collard greens with cheesy corn bread and sweet potato biscuits. After this DELICIOUS dinner, Nick Cave’s Soundsuits once again threaded through the dinner crowd to lead them onto the next experience which was an energetic performance by George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Clinton, considered the architect of this type of music, had the crowd dancing to a blend of funk, rock and soul. A special ticket ($150) was available for this concert only which I thought was a nice idea. It was a packed crowd for George Clinton and his energetic and talented Parliament Funkadelic orchestra and performers; no one wanted to leave but we had to go since I had another big night after this one. But guess who was STILL swaying to the music when we left? Rahm! I loved this! He had said earlier if this had been a black tie event, he would’ve stopped by and then he and wife would’ve probably gone to a movie. I just loved this and am about through with black tie attire myself! I loved seeing this already fashionable crowd so creatively dressed. What do you think about black tie? (To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

The G’Day USA Australia Day Ball brought out 350 Australians, Americans and other nationalities to celebrate this Australian national holiday at the Mid America Club on January 26th. This year was the fifth for this black tie ball in Chicago. Upon arrival, guests had the opportunity to have their photo taken between the Australian and American flags before moving into the reception
. Dinner – a five-course menu inspired by Australian Celebrity Chef Pete Evans and executed by the Mid America Club’s Executive Chef Michael Pivoney – followed in the ballroom overlooking Chicago’s fabulous skyline. The Honorable Roger Price, Consul General of Australia in Chicago, took to the stage and welcomed dignitaries and guests before introducing the Honorable Kim Beazley, Australia’s Ambassador to the USA, who toasted the bond between our two countries. David Quinn delivered greetings and congrats on behalf of the State of Illinois and his dad, Governor Pat Quinn. Tabatha Coffey, host of Bravo’s hit reality show “Tabatha Takes Over,” was the evening’s emcee and entertained the crowd with her delightful humor before introducing Joe Robinson, “Australia’s Got Talent” winner. The night’s raffle included two business class tickets on Qantas. Over $5K was raised through the raffle and proceeds benefitted Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago. Guests danced into the wee hours to the Ken Arlen Orchestra. Other notable guests included Lorenzo Strano, Joan and David Maliband, Damien Hawcroft, Tom Allison, Paul Douglas and Christina Rafidia (Miss Arab USA from South Barrington), Aimee and Bill Osborne, Jacqui O’Neill, Pam and David Kay, Margaret O’Connor and Dr. Michael O’Meara, Catherine and Jim Richards, Glenn Hines and Danielle Landfald, Shane and Rene Young, Jude Fitzgerald and Kyle Robinson and Dana and Justin Biggs among many others. (Photos by Steve Starr.)

The 29th Annual Black Creativity Gala was held at the Museum of Science + Industry on January 28th and welcomed nearly 800 guests. The gala, planned in collaboration with a committee of prominent Chicago African-American leaders chaired this year by Gale Foster Farley, raised more than $475,000 to support the Black Creativity program which pays tribute to the culture, heritage and science contributions of African Americans. Keeping in tune with the evening’s Harlem Renaissance theme – a period of heightened African-American energy and culture during the ‘20s and ‘30s – guests feasted on a lavish strolling buffet with seven stations decorated in black, silver and red by Kehoe Designs. NBC5’s Marion Brooks emceed the evening’s program and introduced the musical entertainment, Maurice Mahon, and the New Face of Soul – the evening’s featured entertainer, Grammy-nominated artist, Freddie Jackson. His songs “You Are My Lady” and “Rock Me Tonight” were hits among this gala crowd. Guests experienced the 2012 Black Creativity exhibit, “Powerful: African Americans in Energy,” which explores America’s energy future and different energy sources with an interactive miniature golf experience. Guests “putted” their way through a diverse landscape of “energy lands” representing oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydropower and more. Gala collaborators included Shari Runner (Sr. VP at the Chicago Urban League), Anita Green (President of Anita Green Relocation Management) and Gregory T. Hinton (chief diversity officer for the Democratic National Committee). The gala also included a juried art exhibition featuring more than 100 original works of art from African American artists. (To view more pics from this amazing evening, please click here!)

It is a very coveted invite. Some women wait years just to be included…and yes, the ladies ALWAYS wear red. This, of course, is Bunky Cushing's yearly (usually, unless he's redoing his kitchen or something) soiree/get-together/lovefest of some of our town's most fashionable and philanthropic women. It's a celebration for Valentine's Day that brought out 85 ladies this year for Bunky's 15th anniversary of the Tea. And even though this particular event was just for fun, Cushing is a well-known and longtime fundraiser for so many important charities around town. He founded the Handbags & Halos annual luncheon in 2002 (which to date has raised more than $1 million) and benefits the Howard Brown Health Center and also supports the Chicago History Museum as well as The Friends of Versailles. His Author's Breakfast in May ("Early Birds & Bookworms") benefits the Jane Addams Senior Caucus. This year will be his fourth annual breakfast to support their work with low-income senior citizens, helping them to find affordable housing and healthcare. I will let these beautiful photos by Caitlin Saville Collins speak for themselves here!

Leave it to Laurie Davis! She always thinks BIG and creatively, not only for her fahhhhbulous store, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, but also in the planning for an exciting film premiere of “God Save My Shoes,” that she’s bringing to Chicago on April 17th at the AMC Theatre, along with Maria Smithburg and media sponsor/friend Susanna Negovan. The film is an interesting documentary into the life of legendary shoe designers including Christian Louboutin. So, save the date for this special screening with producer Thierry Dahler and the director of this film along with its stellar guest list. Tickets will be $75 for the premier and after-party. The red carpet will be waiting!

Poor Hef: His oldest son, Marston, has been charged with alleged battery against his on-again, off-again girlfriend, 2011 Playmate of the Year Claire Sinclair. The last time I met his two sons, I was completely impressed with their demeanors and gentlemanly qualities. They seemed humble and thoughtful and their manners were impeccable. So when I learned through KTLA that Marston is free on bail after allegedly attacking his Playmate girlfriend at their Pasadena home, I was very saddened, especially since my longtime involvement with Playboy has been a very happy one. Prosecutors filed misdemeanor domestic violence charges Monday against Marston (21), Hef's oldest of two sons from his previous marriage to 1989 Playmate of the Year Kimberley Conrad. Sinclair opened up to E! News this week, beginning with her account of Sunday night's altercation: "We had just freshly moved into the apartment, and I know Marston was a little stressed about it, and Marston has been unstable throughout the whole course of our relationship…and we got into an argument about something really silly and it kind of escalated and it became violent. Initially, he kicked me and I went backwards, I fell. Then he punched me and grabbed me up, and I scratched him to defend myself. It was very shocking." Sinclair also reported to E! News that neither Marston nor Hef have reached out to her after this altercation. She went on to say, "Nobody, no support. Nobody's empathetic or concerned. It's more like, cover it up and protect the image. You know what I'm saying? All I want is for Marston to give a public apology. And I want him to get psychiatric help. I want him to admit that he did hit me more than once." I can't personally confirm that Hef hasn't tried to contact Claire and as shocking as this is, I hope people don't blame the father for the sins of the son. I do agree that Marston obviously needs counseling and hope he can also receive some anger management support as well. When I met Claire at a past Glamourcon, she couldn't have been more charming to everyone she met at the event. I wish them both well and hope they can move on to healthier relationships. Sometimes, the choices we make in our youth aren’t always the smartest ones…

TCW will be hosting its annual Top Singles Party on March 9th at Enclave, located at 220 W. Chicago Ave. There will be a sponsored bar, appetizers, music, dancing, raffle and a silent auction. Jane Monzures from the LOOP will emcee this year and I will be covering it for my show, “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com. All funds raised will go towards the TCW Woman Foundation. (Please click here for ticket info!

And if you’re planning any Italian cruises anytime soon, don’t forget to pack these shoes!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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Tagged as Aimee Osborne, Amy Rule, Anita Green, Anita Green Relocation Management, Anne Edwards, Annual Tea, artEdge, Australia’s Ambassador to the USA, Australia’s Got Talent, Author’s Breakfast, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, Bill Osborne, Black Creativity Gala, Bryan Traubert, Bunky Cushing, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Chicago, Catherine Richards, Chef Michael Pivoney, Chef Pete Evans, Chicago History Museum, Chicago Urban League, Christian Louboutin, Christina Rafidia, Claire Sinclair, Consul General of Australia in Chicago, Damien Hawcroft, Dana Biggs, Danielle Landfald, David Kay, David Maliband, David Quinn, Democratic National Committee, Don Edwards, Dr. Michael O’Meara, E! News, Early Birds & Bookworms, Freddie Jackson, Gale Foster Farley, G’Day USA Australia Day Ball, George Clinton, Glamourcon, Glenn Hines, God Save My Shoes, Grammy Awards, Gregory T. Hinton, Handbags & Halos, Harlem Renaissance, Heffernan Morgan, Howard Brown Health Center, Hugh Hefner, Jacqui O’Neill, Jane Addams Senior Caucus, Jane Monzures, Jay Franke, Jim Richards, Joan Maliband, Joe Robinson, Jude Fitzgerald, Justin Biggs, Kehoe Designs, Ken Arlen Orchestra, Kim Beazley, Kimberley Conrad, KTLA, Kyle Robinson, Laurie Davis, Liza Brooks, Lorenzo Strano, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Marc Brooks, Margaret O’Connor, Maria Smithburg, Marion Brooks, Marston Hefner, Maurice Mahon, Mid America Club, Mila Samokhina, Miss Arab USA, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Science + Industry, Nick Cave and his Soundsuits, Pam Kay, Parliament Funkadelic, Pat Quinn, Paul Douglas, Penny Pritzker, Playboy, Playmate of the Year, Powerful: African Americans in Energy, Qantas, Rahm Emanuel, Rene Young, Roger Price, Shane Young, Shari Runner, Steve Starr, Susanna Negovan, Tabatha Coffey, Tabatha Takes Over, TCW, TCW Woman Foundation, The Friends of Versailles, Thierry Dahler, Tom Allison, Top Singles Party, Watch312.com, Wolfgang Puck

November 1, 2011 · 12:44 pm

FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION BALL: WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE (WERE!)

…PLUS COLUMBIAN BALL, AIRPLANE ENVY AT AVIATOR’S NIGHT FOR SIGHT, A “SWEET” CHEF AND A BUSY CHEF, A BLOCKBUSTER AUTHOR, ELMO’S, BREAKING ART SMITH/LADY GAGA NEWS AND MORE MUST-ATTEND EVENTS FOR YOUR SOCIAL CALENDAR…AND MY LATEST VIDEO FROM WATCH312.COM!

It’s not often that a black tie fundraiser includes holding baby snow leopards, watching kudus on the dance floor or seeing young kangaroos bounding from table to table in a crowded ballroom but this was exactly the scene for the Friends of Conservation’s 21st Ball to benefit the wildlife and culture in East Africa. Reute Butler chaired this event and also serves as president of the organization which was founded in 1982 by her mother, Jorie Butler Kent, and Geoffrey Kent. (On this evening, Jorie was receiving the World Saver Award, as founder of A & K Philanthropy, in Singapore and couldn’t attend). The FOC’s mission, with core support from Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy and other generous donors, is to join with the local people to support traditional and sustainable ways of living in harmony with wildlife and the ecosystem. Also, they promote resource and energy efficient solutions to alleviate the effects of climate change and advancing civilization. Their programs and Conservation Clubs also teach the children of the Masai Mara tree planting, bird watching, bee keeping as well as helping to develop community health projects. FOC also takes a very active role in promoting the overall education in 30 Mara schools. This year alone, the FOC also captured 29 poachers! The quote of the night came from renowned wildlife expert (and former “Wild Kingdom” star) Jim Fowler: “When you look into the eyes of these animals, you feel a connection. And this is important in encouraging the desire for wildlife conservation.” Fowler brought along his friends from the “Wild Kingdom,” as I mentioned above, who definitely brought the point home for the 150 guests this evening. Emcee Zoraida Sambolin introduced Reute by saying, “When you look into her eyes, you see love, heart and a desire to see the world in a better place.” The patron of the organization for the last 23 years, HRH, the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, also sent a message of congratulations: “I am greatly encouraged by the enthusiasm with which you have pursued your work. Your support for projects to preserve wildlife and its habitat has not only benefitted endangered species but also the local communities which depend upon them. We all must redouble our efforts to put economic value on the vital benefits we receive from nature.” He went on to say, “Our work has made a difference but it is far from over.” The FOC has been making a difference for 29 years now in the world-renowned Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem, where the largest remaining mammal migration on earth occurs when 1.8 million wildebeest follow the new grass after the rains from the Serengeti every year. It is also the home of the largest concentration of the legendary Masai. Women from the tribe had made exquisite beaded jewelry, belts and more for the silent auction on this night that was filled with intoxicating live auction packages, too. Auctioneer David Goodman hammered down trips, donated by Abercrombie & Kent, to Peru for two (that sold for $3K), a South African safari (that sold for $5K), two business class tickets to London (courtesy of event sponsor American Airlines that sold for $6K), an eight- day journey for two to Turkey ($7K) and a trip to Thailand ($10K). Other unique offerings included a chance to create your own brew, courtesy of Greenbush Brewing Co. owner Scott Sullivan and Fitzgerald’s Gastro-Pub, and a ready-made wine collection consisting of 100 bottles with messages attached from the donors about the wine. (A very clever auction idea, by the way, that gets all of the supporters involved). Rachael Phillippe, Holly Rothschild, Wendy Sherman and Jessica Swift were the co-chairs for the evening and honorary co-chairs included Reute’s uncle (and creator of “Hair,” the musical), Michael Butler, Jutta and John Maue-Kay, Geoffrey Kent, Kay and Fred Krehbiel and actress Stefanie Powers. Special thanks also went to Dr. Wharton Shober (Reute’s father) and Frank O. Butler II (her uncle), who both flew in for the event. The evening was not only for a wonderful caus, but it was a chance to celebrate with party animals and furry animals to the sounds of my favorite bandleader, Stanley Paul. Congrats to Reute, the FOC, long-time supporter Joan Wegner and her family, emcee Zoraida Sambolin and the ever charming, Jim Fowler for bringing these good works and the reasons for them to our attention. Jim Fowler closed the evening by introducing his equally charming wife: “I was a specialist on wildlife and I’d like you to meet my wife Betsy. I tamed her with the rewards system.” (Thanks also to Richard Wiese for his expert help with the wildlife presentations. If it weren’t for him, the little snow leopard would’ve been a bit more than I could handle on my own! What an incredible evening!) Other supporters seen on the scene included Ken Norgan, Paul Iacono, Neal Steiner, Stephanie-Kraml Sutter, Manuela Hung, Marianna Kohl, Sarah Shillington, Rebecca Halpern, Tom Hackett, Colleen Remsburg, Denise Foy, Suzie Browne, World War II ace fighter pilot Burt Avedon, Tom Juffernbruch, William Holdeman, George Jewell, Susan and Joe Ahern and family, Janice Bergamin, Sandya Dandamudi, Teri Maki, Tom McGuire, Barbara and Alain Wood-Prince, Jill and Ben Wigdor, Brien Comerford, Dana and Stanley Day, Wendy Dunaway and Mike McGonagle, Cindy and David Wigdahl, Betsey Burhams Fowler, Ann Epting, Pamela Lassers, Jean Fawcett, Sue Mitchell, Sandra Busse, Norma Cooke and Sean Eshagy among many others. To learn more and/or to donate, please visit www.FriendsofConservation.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and to see the fun for yourselves, enjoy my four- minute video clip on Watch312.com below!)

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

More than 800 guests celebrated at the 31st annual Columbian Ball at the Museum of Science and Industry which raised nearly $2 million this year. This annual event featured the Museum’s “Fast Forward…Inventing the Future” exhibit and encouraged guests to celebrate today’s leading inventors and inspire innovators of the future. The evening, chaired by Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Tilton, Dr. Diana Strassmann and Jeff Smisek, also celebrated the Museum’s Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE), which brings interactive science content into the classroom, out to the community, inside special Museum lab spaces and throughout the Museum itself. During the reception, guests interacted with local Chicago teens and teachers who participate in this program, giving guests an opportunity to hear first-hand the positive influence it bears. Guests dined on a delicious meal, catered by George Jewell, which paid homage to featured “Fast Forward” inventors: The meal started with “The Vertical Garden” (dedicated to inventor Dickson Despommier’s Vertical Farm Project), which included honey crisp apple, cranberry, fennel, arugula and goat cheese in a honey-lemon vinaigrette, followed by the “Out of this World” dinner entrees which were inspired by another featured “Fast Forward” innovator Peter Diamandis, chairman and CEO of the X-Prize Foundation and Zero Gravity Corp. and culminated with the dessert from molecular gastronomy king Chef Homaro Cantu – his ACME Bomb was a truffle-like dessert filled with graham cracker and crème that is a more modern take on the s’more. Emcee Bill Kurtis kicked off the live auction, which raised more than $217K, and included two round trip tickets to Hong Kong and four courtside seats plus a behind-the-scenes tour at the 2012 U.S. Open Tennis Championship among many other unique offerings. Live entertainment was provided by “Generation: The Sixties Experience.” The Museum of Science and Industry was once the Palace of Fine Arts at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and the Columbian Ball is named after this world-renowned fair. To learn more about Museum events and programming, please visit www.msichicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl and JB Spector…for more photos, please click here!)

The Illinois Eye-Bank brought the luxe life back for the second year with their popular “Aviator’s Night for Sight” event, which was held inside the hangar at Schaumburg Regional Airport. Guests enjoyed a champagne reception at Chicago’s Crown Plaza Hotel before departing by motor coach to the airport where numerous jets, luxury sports cars, fashion and food were waiting to greet them. Guest mixed, danced and mingled while drinking Grey Goose specialty cocktails and perusing the gourmet food stations. Spin master DJ RodX got the party started before IEB Executive Director Diane Hollingsworth and event co-chairs Morgan Stogsdill and Franco La Marca took to the stage. After welcoming the attendees, they introduced 10-year-old Anthony Diaz, a cornea recipient who was the evening’s Ambassador for Vision. Morgan and Franco ended by sharing, “Our friends and colleagues united through Ambassadors for Vision to raise awareness for the Illinois Eye-Bank’s important mission of restoring sight to the blind.” Next up, a fashion show produced by Kimberly Palmisano, in association with Akira, featured looks from the Monarrez Collection, Villapando, Anabel Salazar, By Chance, Marissa and Jason Senzon, French Connection, Hudson Jeans and Scott James among others. The evening raised approximately $25K which will be used to continue the work of the Eye-Bank. For more info, please visit www.illinoiseyebank.org. Check out the video fun here! (Photos by Steve Starr.)

A big congrats to “sweet” Chef Eric Lanlard! I attended my first “Disco Dessert Tea Dance” held in his honor recently at the super cool Stephen Hamilton Studio, located at 1520 W. Fulton. Hosted by Jesus Salguiero, Naushab Ahmed and Stephen Hamilton, this ‘70s themed party also featured DJ White Shadow, who helped produce Lady Gaga’s hit, “Born this Way.” And speaking of Lady Gaga, Chef Art wasn’t able to attend, even though he was one of the hosts…but a little birdie told me he is in NY working on a Thanksgiving special with Lady Gaga!!! (So long Andy Williams!) Anyway, the guest of honor, darling Chef Lanlard, told me he’s been baking cakes since he was three years old! He is a Master Patissier, a two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Awards AND he has earned himself an international reputation for superlative cakes with an impressive A-list clientele. Along with his cake emporium, Cake Boy in London, Eric also stars in two British TV series where he takes the viewer on a journey to his favorite cafes and patisseries of Paris. He is also the author of “Master Cakes” and teaches regular classes at his Southwest London cookery school. WHEW! He is definitely someone you should know. And his recent book, “Cake Boy,” has some of the most scrumptious recipes and photos I’ve seen in a long, long time. Willy Wonka has nothing on Eric! (To purchase “Cake Boy,” please click here and to view more pics, click here!)

Speaking of book news, society expert/author Megan McKinney has just published a riveting story of the country’s first media dynasty, the Medills of Chicago. “The Magnificent Medills” was featured on the COVER of The New York Times Book Review a week or so ago and, as the jacket reads, “Printer’s ink raged in the veins of the Medills, the McCormicks and the Pattersons throughout a century, and their legacy prevailed for another five decades – always in the forefront of events, shaping the intellectual and social pulse of America. At the same time, the dark side of the intellectual stardom driving the dynasty was a destructive compulsion that left clan members crippled by their personal demons of chronic depression, alcoholism, drug abuse and even madness and suicide.” There are also many, many people mentioned that we all know, or have heard of, around town. This book is a must-read! Congrats to Megan on this blockbuster! Chicago is quickly becoming the literary capitol of the world! (To purchase “The Magnificent Medills,” please click here!)

And now for some exciting upcoming events that Candid Candace Recommends 🙂

The Junior League of Chicago will hold its 40th Annual Gazebo Holiday Market on Friday, November 18th, and Saturday, November 19th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St., in the Sidney R. Yates Gallery on the 4th floor. In addition to a full-day of shopping on Saturday, the “Martinis and Mistletoe” preview cocktail party will be held on Friday, November 18th from 7 – 11 PM. Tickets to the party are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Ticket sales from the party and a portion of every purchase will be donated to the JLC’s community projects dedicated to the empowerment of at-risk women and children in the Chicagoland area. (For more info and to purchase event and raffle tickets, please call 312.664.4462 ext. 101 or visit www.jlchicago.org. (Entrance to the Gazebo Holiday Market is free and open to the public on Saturday, Nov. 19th from 10 AM to 4 PM).

Will you be meeting friends at Elmo’s on Friday evening, November 4th, for the annual Service Club of Chicago’s black tie gala at the Four Seasons, located at 120 E. Delaware Place? The theme is “A Glamorous Evening at The Club El Morocco” and will be a celebration of this organization’s 121st gala. Founded in 1890, the SC is one of the oldest philanthropic organizations in the city. Co-chairs Toni Canada, Laurie Davis and Dusty Stemer have planned a night of surprises you won’t soon forget. Emcees for the evening will be Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini of “Windy City Live,” Honorary Chair is Rahm Emanuel and there will be a special performance by Shelley MacArthur Farley. The title of the Gala was inspired by the legendary supper club of the ‘30s and ‘40s, El Morocco, where the Vanderbilts dined alongside Cary Grant and Marlene Dietrich, where Jackie went as Mrs. Kennedy and Mrs. Onassis, and where infamous playboy Porfirio Rubirosa dallied with Delores del Rio, Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth and Eva Peron. It was also the place where Humphrey Bogart was banned for life! As you can see, we’re in for some good ole Hollywood glamour! So grab your mink boa, a cigarette holder (well, maybe not) and your martini glass because I think we’re in for one wild ride! (For tickets, beginning at $400, and more info, please contact Laurie Davis at 773.404.5858).

International wine and culinary event LUXEHOME Chill will be held in LUXEHOME’s showroom in the Merchandise Mart on Thursday, November 10th, from 6 – 8:30 PM. The VIP party will be held from 5 – 6 PM in their Paris Ceramics suite, #146. Hosted by L20 Restaurant and Wine Spectator Magazine, this event will feature premier seafood tastings served by Executive Chef Francis Brennan. The main event will feature 40 top chefs and 150 premium wines! Tickets to the VIP Wine Tasting and Reception plus the main event are $175. For the Wine & Culinary Event only, tickets are $85. The VIP event will benefit the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, the Lynn Sage Foundation and the Respiratory Health Association. (For tix and more info, please click here.) You will see LOTS of familiar faces here, I’m sure, thanks to much loved host, Gayle Anthony!

Still haven’t made it to the pumpkin patch…sigh. Have a great week and thanks for checking in!! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Thanks to a happenstance meeting on a reality cooking show, Lady Gaga and Chef Art Smith are doing some BIGGGGG, EXCITING things together! Chef Art and Lady Gaga met on "Oprah." She admired Art from "Top Chef Masters" and expressed disappointment that he didn’t win. He replied, “I did win, you remembered me. It’s not about winning, it’s about being remembered.” Their friendship and love for each other led to her introducing her parents, Cynthia and Joe Germanotta, to Art. Papa Gaga, a graduate of Hotel and Restaurant School at Michigan State has always dreamed of owning his own restaurant. Well, voila! Watch for a small restaurant, Joanne’s, coming to NYC’s Upper West side, in the 60’s between Columbus and Central Park with a menu inspired by family recipes with Art’s special southern touches. It will be designed by Mama Gaga and will I’m sure become an instant star-spotting, celeb hangout! AND, watch for Chef Art in a starring role in an ABC Thanksgiving Special with the Lady herself!

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Tagged as A Glamorous Evening at The Club El Morocco, Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy, Akira, Alain Wood-Prince, Anabel Salazar, Andy Williams, Ann Epting, Anthony Diaz, Art Smith, Aviator’s Night for Sight, Barbara Wood-Prince, Ben Wigdor, Betsey Burhams Fowler, Bill Kurtis, Bob Carl, Brien Comerford, Burt Avedon, By Chance, Cake Boy, Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE), Chef Eric Lanlard, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, Cindy Wigdahl, Colleen Remsburg, Columbian Ball, Conservation Clubs, Dana Day, David Goodman, David Wigdahl, Denise Foy, Diane Hollingsworth, Disco Dessert Tea Dance, DJ White Shadow, Dr. Diana Strassmann, Dr. Wharton Shober, Dusty Stemer, Elmo’s, Fast Forward...Inventing the Future, Fitzgerald Gastro-Pub, Francis Brennan, Franco La Marca, Frank O. Butler II, Fred Krehbiel, French Connection, Friends of Conservation Ball, Gayle Anthony, Gazebo Holiday Market, Generation: The Sixties Experience, Geoffrey Kent, George Jewell, Glenn Tilton, Greenbush Brewing Company, Holly Rothschild, Homaro Cantu, Hudson Jeans, Illinois Eye-Bank, Jackie Tilton, Janice Bergamin, JB Spector, Jean Fawcett, Jeff Smisek, Jessica Swift, Jesus Salguiero, Jill Wigdor, Jim Fowler, Joan Wegner, Joe Ahern, John Maue-Kay, Jorie Butler Kent, Junior League of Chicago, Jutta Maue-Kay, Kay Krehbiel, Ken Norgan, Kimberly Pamlisano, L2O, Lady Gaga, Laurie Davis, LUXEHOME Chill, Lynn Sage Foundation, Magnificent Medills, Manuela Hung, Marianna Kohl, Marissa and Jason Senzon, Martinis and Mistletoe, Masai Mara, Master Cakes, Megan McKinney, Merchandise Mart, Michael Butler, Mike McGonagle, Mila Samokhina, Monarrez Collection, Morgan Stogsdill, Museum of Science and Industry, Naushab Ahmed, Neal Steiner, Norma Cooke, Pamela Lassers, Paul Iacono, Peter Diamandis, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Rachael Phillippe, Rahm Emanuel, Rebecca Halpern, Respiratory Health Association, Reute Butler, Richard Wiese, Ryan Chiaverini, Sandra Busse, Sandya Dandamudi, Sarah Shillington, Scott James, Scott Sullivan, Sean Eshagy, Service Club of Chicago, Shelley MacArthur Farley, Stanley Day, Stanley Paul, Stefanie Powers, Stephanie-Kraml Sutter, Stephen Hamilton, Stephen Hamilton Studio, Steve Starr, Sue Mitchell, Susan Ahern, Suzie Browne, Teri Maki, The New York Times Book Review, Tom Hackett, Tom Juffernbruch, Tom McGuire, Toni Canada, Valerie Warner, Villapando, Watch312.com, Wendy Dunaway, Wendy Sherman, William Holdeman, Windy City Live, Wine Spectator, World War II, Zoraida Sambolin

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