Category Archives: Television

January 22, 2014 · 9:17 pm

SPORTS STARS & MEDIA CELEBS SUPPORT WOODY’S WINTER WARM-UP

PLUS MARCO'S GRINCH STRIKES AGAIN; PEARL TAVERN OPENS BIG; CHICAGO BULLS CELEBRATE BRIGHT PINK; RASHIED DAVIS BOWLS FOR CHARITY; SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW; JAPONAIS BY MORIMOTO FOR COMMON THREADS; SPEX GAMBLES FOR LITTLE CITY; "BLACK & WHITE" GALA FOR CANINE THERAPY; MAKE-A-WISH'S WOMEN'S NETWORK GALA; ILLINOIS CENTERS FOR BROADCASTING'S ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING SEMINAR; ANTIQUES AT THE PIER; NEW VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It’s a busy time of year for retired Chicago Cub Kerry Wood and wife Sarah. They recently surprised 482 students at Lawndale Elementary Community Academy when they transformed its gymnasium into a Winter- Wonderland complete with Santa and his elves. Each child received a new coat and toy as a result of Principal Willard Willette’s success in leading the school for four years with continuous substantial improvements. And now Sarah and Kerry, with a little help from their high profile friends, have just finished hosting their 3rd annual Woody’s Winter Warm-Up Celebrity Mixer which took place on Friday, January 17^th at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier. The Warm-Up was emceed by radio personality Pete McMurray and 24/7 television host Catie Keogh and showcased Chicago Cubs (past and present), celebrities and media personalities as they guest-bartended mixing drinks and competing for tips to raise money for the Wood Family Foundation. Participants included Anna Davlantes, Allison Rosati , Kathy Hart (Eric & Kathy), Eric Ferguson (Eric & Kathy), Ryan Chiaverini (Windy City LIVE), David Kaplan (Comcast SportsNet), Peggy Kusinski (NBC), Lou Canellis (Fox), Sarah Spain (ESPN radio), Rob Johnson (CBS), Showbiz Shelley (B96), Danni Allen (winner of The Biggest Loser), Jeanne Sparrow (WCIU), Whitney Reynolds (The Whitney Reynolds Show), Mindie Kaplan (Happy Hour with Mindie), Jane Monzures (FM 101), Kelly Crull (Comcast). Cubs in attendance included Starlin Castro, Mark Prior, Jim Bullinger, Theo Epstein, Edwin Jackson, Brooks Raley, Anthony Rizzo, Jeff Samardzija, Junior Lake, James Russell, Welington Castillo, Justin Ruggiano and Carlos Villanueva,. The evening also featured an amazing silent auction filled with unique sports memorabilia, a premium open bar, a dinner buffet, raffle, a DJ and awesome live performances. There was a special solo performance by Robert Randolph, pedal steel guitarist whose American funk and soul sounds have entertained audiences across the country since 2001. “The past two Warm-Ups have attracted an amazing crowd and featured musicians William Beckett, Plain White T’s, Dave Mason, DJ White Shadow and DJ Greg Corner and this year was another great time to benefit the kids!” said Wood. The night was a fun-filled affair with guests mixing and mingling with their favorite sports stars and media personalities. Governor Quinn spoke to the crowd and thanked the Woods for their continuing support of kids in the community. A live auction included a spring training package, a signed performance art piece by Elliott From, and the chance to win a place on the celebrity wiffle ball team for the upcoming "Wiffle for a Diffle" event in Wrigley Field on August 15. Additionally, throughout the month of January, Harry Caray’s Tavern Navy Pier will be serving up “Woody’s Smokin Pitch” winter cocktail to help raise money for WFF and its programs. Made with Avion silver tequila, fresh lime juice, agave nectar and topped with a sliced jalapeno pepper, the drink will donate 100% of sales back to the foundation! So drink UP! The Wood Family Foundation (WFF) is a non-profit organization that was founded in June 2011 by Kerry and Sarah Wood. The WFF works to improve the lives of children in and around Chicago by raising funds and awareness for children’s charities and the causes they support. The WFF acts as an advocate for children in the Chicago community, inspiring others to join them in their mission of giving children the resources they need to succeed. (For more info, click here www.woodfamilyfoundation.org) Keep up the great work Kerry and Sarah! (Fab photos by Mila Samokhina)

Beloved philanthropist-around-town, Marco Foster, hosted yet another great event for a good cause! His third annual "The Grinch Who Gave Back Christmas" attracted more than 350 guests to Underground for a party to benefit the Brain Injury Association of Illinois. This organization is near and dear to Marco's heart since he is a brain tumor survivor himself. "It was scary, but I had my family and friends around me the whole time. Not everyone has the happy ending I did, and this organization provides wonderful support and resources for those who need them," said Foster. The event featured holiday-themed cocktails and photos with the Grinch himself, as well as The Grinchette. Guests could watch scenes from "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" on a custom 40-foot HD video wall. Notable attendees included Jonny Immerman (founder of Immerman Angels), Whitney Reynolds (Whitney Reynolds Show) and Alicia Roman (NBC-5 Chicago meteorologist). The Brain Injury Association of Illinois provides information, advocacy and support for individuals with traumatic brain injuries, their families and professionals who treat them. (Photos by Ray Thompson, Francis Son and Murad Namik)

The Chicago Bulls celebrated its first “Health & Wellness Night” on January 13 in a game with the Washington Wizards. The Bulls welcomed staff and volunteers from Bright Pink to the game as representatives of the team’s community partners who focus on health and wellness. Bright Pink is the only national non-profit focused on prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women. Their life-saving education and support programs empower young women to be proactive with their breast and ovarian health. Bright Pink volunteers were on hand providing fans with information on breast and ovarian health. “The Bulls organization always look for opportunities to encourage our fans to live healthy and active lifestyles,” said Nancy Reinsdorf, President of Chicago Bulls Charities. “The Bulls are proud to work with organizations like Bright Pink that are so passionate about the health of Chicagoans and to celebrate these partners during Health & Wellness Night.” (For more info, visit www.Bulls.comand www.brightpink.org )

Rashied Davis Charities is hosting its second annual "Bowling for Brighter Tomorrows" event to support Saturday Place, its academic enrichment program, on Sunday, January 26. Former Bears wide receiver, Rashied Davis, will host the event with attendees expected to include many of his former teammates as well as other players and media personalities such as Anthony Adams, James Loving, James "Big Cat" Williams, Jason McKie, Jim Cornelison and Ray McElroy. The party will be hosted by News Radio 780's Jeff Joniak with a special guest appearance by Jarrett Payton. Lanes can be purchased for $2500 with individual tickets prices at $100. (To learn more about Rashied Davis Charities, Saturday Place and ways to get involved, visit www.SaturdayPlace.org).

Under the category of "Someone You Should Know", beloved children's book author Joe Brown (father of the famed makeup expert Bobbi) has been donating his time and services around the world reading to the kids! He offers signed copies of his popular children's book series, "The Flights of Marceau", and also donates the entire 7 book set for each school's library. He's delighted kids in NY, throughout Illinois, Arizona, California and all the way to Ho Chi Minh City with many stops in between. He's planning his 2014 calendar now so if you know of any schools or worthy children's causes where he might bring his loving brand of entertainment, please contact him at jola1@aol.com …..

As you are probably aware, Japonais has been undergoing some renovation and rebranding work and, when they reopen their doors at the end of the month, their new concept, Japonais by Morimoto, will be revealed! Critically acclaimed Japanese Chef and star of Food Network’s Iron Chef and Iron Chef America, Masaharu Morimoto is heading to Chicago as the new face behind Japonais! In an effort to fully immerse himself in the Chicago food scene, Morimoto has invited some of Chicago’s finest chefs to join him for the evening to serve small bites to some 250 guests. The Launch Party will be on Wednesday, January 29, from 6-9 pm with proceeds from the evening benefitting Common Threads. VIP access allows for table service and special seating as well as a complimentary bottle of champagne. There are 8 VIP tables available that fit 6 to 8 per table and 2 private dining areas available, one seats 8 and the other up to 14. To book a table, contact Common Threads’ Event Coordinator, Robin Vance at rvance@commonthreads.org or call 312.462.0722. For tickets and more info, click here and be the first to welcome Morimoto to our wonderful city!

On Sunday, January 26, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago will host its 13th Annual d'Vine Affair, a premier wine tasting event that will be held at the Union League Club of Chicago on Sunday, January 26, from 2-6 pm. Benefitting Catholic Charities' self-sufficiency programs, the event will feature educational seminars, tastings, a
silent auction and a prize raffle followed by a 3-course dinner. Expecting more than 500 attendees, the annual event is hosted by Monsignor Michael Boland, president of Catholic Charities, along with event founders Joseph and Helen Glunz of Louis Glunz Wines, Inc. and co-chairs John and Teddi Scholz. (Tickets are $125 with an additional $80 for the 3-course dinner. www.catholiccharities.net/dvine .

We attended a fabulous preview over the weekend of hot new Loop restaurant/bar, Pearl Tavern (located at 180 N. Wacker). It was jam-packed with beautiful people enjoying tasty selections from Chef Chris Lorenz that included every type of oyster you could imagine, lobster rolls, tuna bites and so much more! Restaurant developer Adolfo
Garcia has revived the classic All-American seafood eatery and oyster bar in this beautiful new space (that used to be Coogan's) by preserving the original hardwood floors and restoring the vintage ceilings. Guests dined at ornate bistro tables with Carrera marble, gold
brass lighting and the Chicago River as the backdrop. (Outdoor seating will be available in the summer). Chef Lorenz' menu includes oysters from the east and west coasts, a rotating crudo bar with a carpaccio and tuna poke, razor clams with fennel and trout roe, swordfish au poivre, grilled octopus, crab churros and a Connecticut-style lobster roll. It was a great "shucking"experience! (www.PearlTavern.com)

GET YOUR POKER FACE ON! Spex, one of Chicago’s premier destinations for luxury eyewear, joins with Little City Foundation on Friday, March 7^th, from 6:00pm to 12:30am, to present “Seeing Hope Together.” This is the second year of sponsorship for this exciting poker tournament and casino night fundraiser that will be at The Montgomery Club, located at 500 W. Superior Street, Chicago. The evening will support children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Iconic fashion eyewear collections and eyewear accessories will be informally modeled and showcased during the festivities. Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse will provide a lavish, all-night buffet for guests to enjoy plus there will be a premium open bar, exciting raffle, and swag bags as part of this special gaming for a cause event. Michael Caputo, Director of Marketing, expressed pride with the continuing partnership: “We had a great crowd last year; the ballroom was buzzing with excitement! And Spex remains energized in supporting Little City’s commitment to change lives. We’re particularly proud of our association with an Illinois organization whose core advocacy – simply stated, sees hope. It’s our shared Chicago roots — as well as our standard of care and wellness, that makes our committed partnership a winning hand!" (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

The Make-A-Wish Women’s Network, a newly formed women’s board for the foundation, will host its inaugural fundraiser, Women, Wine & Wishes on Thursday, February 20, at New Leaf (1818 N. Wells St.) This cocktail themed party will honor several women in the Chicago community that have helped the organization with identifying and facilitating the wishes of children with life threatening illnesses: Alyssa Hock, Joni Lamb, Jennifer Loewy, Dr. Elaine Morgan and Andrea Schwartz. Make-A-Wish granted over 700 wishes last year and continues to make dreams come true. Contrary to what many people have heard, a child doesn’t need to have a terminal illness to qualify. In fact, there are many more survivors who grow up to lead extraordinary lives, sometimes in professions directly related to their wish. ( For tickets and more info, click here!)

A special shout-out and thanks to Chicago Now blogger/author Nicole Kane Knepper for this interview! We talked for more than an hour at Tempo recently for a column she'll be posting on her blog on Friday. I was honored to be chosen by this incredibly funny writer who puts her heart and soul into every post! Her blog, "Moms Who Drink & Swear" is a must-read! Hope you enjoy the fun-filled (silly) video below!

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If you love antiques as much as I do then you won't want to miss Opening Night of the Chicago International Art, Antique & Jewelry Show on Thursday, April 24, presented by the Palm Beach Show Group and hosted by the Women's Board of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Held for the first time at Navy Pier's Festival Hall, the event will give guests a "first look" at treasures from around the world. The show will run from 4/25 to 4/28. For tickets and more info, click here or call 561.822.5440.

Thanks so much to Tina Weller for bringing "One: The Benefit" to my attention! This fundraiser, hosted by the Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club, will be held on Saturday, February 22, at Skyline Loft, 1200 W. 35th Street, in Chicago. Eric Ferguson, Ben Bradley and Mike Schimmel will emcee alongside DJs Lee Michaels, Megan Taylor and Alvin Black. The event will benefit Hephzibah Children's Association, Oak Park’s oldest charity. The organization was founded in 1897 by Mary Wessels who opened her home to children from a nearby orphanage that had been destroyed by fire. Responding to a need in the community, Mary continued to welcome youngsters into her home and made it her mission to “care for society’s most vulnerable children.” (For tickets and more info, click here!)

Congratulations to John Kelly, founder of A Meal to Heal. This new non-profit provides meals at popular restaurants for families following the loss of a loved one to help with the healing process. John conceived this idea after the loss of his dad in 2005. A meal at Bob Chinn's with his siblings provided such a sense of bonding and healing that he wanted other families who have experienced loss to be able to have this same type of support. "This is my way of grieving and dealing with the loss of my parents. We grew up with a focus on cooking and dining and I thought others might benefit as well," said Kelly. Past endeavors have supported families of servicemen lost with meals at Francesca's. For the month of January, Standard Market Grill in Lincoln Park will donate 10% of sales to www.AMealToHeal.org . Good luck John!

The Canine Therapy Corps Young Professionals Board will host its 3rd annual Spring Gala, "Black & White", to benefit Canine Therapy Corps (CTC) on Saturday, March 8 at Revel Downtown, 440 W. Randolph. (CTC providesinteractive animal-assisted therapy services and support for people in need). Festivities will include hors d'oeuvres, a silent-auction and photo ops with the CTC dogs! Watch this website for tickets and more info or contact Will Wagner at 847-962-4743 ( wlw9123@gmail.com).

I'll be teaching my 3rd entertainment seminar for the Illinois Center for Broadcasting on Wednesday, February 5th. If you're interested in entertainment reporting and interview techniques, please join me!

Congrats to founder Kathleen Casey on the good work she's doing with Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. I was thrilled to see the young artists hard at work creating beautiful original pieces to auction off at our upcoming Bear Tie Ball on March 8! Hope you can come! (For tickets and more info, please click here!) (Photos by Mila Samokhina).

I loved Nico at the Thompson Hotel! Great food and ambiance and I was so happy to see GM Steve Shern and assistant director of catering Mimi Lopez! I celebrated Sheila O'Grady and Dr. Stacie McClane's birthdays with Mary Pat Burns, Tracey Tarantino, Sheryl Dyer, Jean Antoniou and Sharyl Mackey. We all loved the experience from beginning to end! Happy, happy birthday Sheila and Stacie!

That's all the news for this week! Hope there's an event here you want to wrap your arms around! Until next time, thanks for checking in!

Love, as always,

Candace 🙂

P.S. Don't forget our little furry friends in need, too!

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Games, Music, Sports, Television

January 9, 2014 · 12:46 pm

PLAYBOY MANSION’S HOT NYE PARTY PLUS CHICAGO HIGHLIGHTS

PLUS THE JENNY AND DONNIE INTERVIEW ON WATCH312; A NEW GUEST BLOGGER; ALL ABOARD!; ABC 7’S LIVE NYE COVERAGE; PUBLIC CHICAGO’S NYE WITH HEBRU AND THE BULLS; EAT AND DRINK TO THE BEAT AT THE HARRIS; REDMOON’S SPECTACLE LUNATIQUE (VIDEO!); BORRIS POWELL’S “FREEDOM” FASHION SHOW (VIDEO); FANTASY OF THE OPERA; 10 FAVORITE VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Welcome to 2014! I hope your year is off to a great start! There were so many wonderful parties around town and I hope you enjoyed hearing about the plans of the movers & shakers in my last blog (if you missed it, click here). We missed the New Year’s Eve Party this year with Hef and Crystal at the Playboy Mansion. The invite was so cute as the night also celebrated their one-year anniversary. We used to attend these parties with my beautiful friend, Patti Connors and her handsome husband, legendary tennis player, Jimmy. Patti was Playboy’s 1977 Playmate of the Year and is one of the most gorgeous women I know. They have two beautiful children Aubree and Brett who I’ve known since they were born.

Brett has become quite a well known photographer who also does production work for ESPN Sports. He got interested in photography when his dog Bentley got sick. He felt the need to document his every move but, happily, Bentley is just fine and now Brett has a brand new hobby/career path! His favorite subjects are nature and animals but he rocks sporting events too, of course! The highlight of his career was having one of his photos used as the cover of his dad Jimmy Connor’s exciting autobiography “The Outsider: A Memoir“. When I asked him how it was growing up with such famous parents, he answered, “It was pretty normal to be honest. My parents are just normal people who happen to have been in the public eye but, growing up at home, they were just mom and dad for me and my sister Aubree. My father traveled a lot which was tough because he would be gone all the time but, at the same time, it was awesome because I got to go on the road with him a lot. Dad’s the guy who I go to when I need advice and runs me around on the tennis court and mom cooks me the best meals ever and always makes me laugh. I’m so lucky to have them for parents.” When asked what his hopes for the future were for his photography he said, “Leaving something behind is the coolest aspect of art to me, it’s timeless, it can last forever.” His dream is to go on safari and possibly do some stuff for National Geographic. “I would love to be camped out somewhere and catch a glimpse of something rare!” I can’t wait to see the places he’ll go with his amazing talent! (To see more of Brett’s work and for more info, email him at BrettConnorsPhotography@gmail.com)

Since Brett has been attending Hef’s parties since he was young, I thought he would be the perfect candidate to cover this year’s NYE party for my blog so here’s his delightful boots-on-the-ground report:

I remember it like it was yesterday, I had just turned 21 and I was invited to my first Playboy Mansion party!! It would have been sooner but my mother (a former Playmate of the Year) made me wait until I was of legal drinking age until she unleashed me to the wonderland that is Playboy Mansion West! It was everything I had imagined and then some, a surreal world of colors, music and of course, beautiful women, most walking around wearing very little while trying to out-do one another as to who could wear the least amount of clothing and gain the most attention! My head was on a swivel all night long and I remember seeing girls I recognized from the magazine left and right, some wearing nothing more than body paint as their outfit! I had a blast and, by the end of the night, I remember Hugh Hefner himself leaning over to me and whispering, “Hey Brett, you’re on “the list” now!”

At the time I didn’t know exactly what that meant, but what Hef was telling me was that I was now a part of the Playboy family and would be invited back whenever they threw a big party, had a Sunday movie night or went out for a night on the town! I was told there was only one stipulation: Stay away from the blondes, those are for Mr Hefner! Ok, I could handle that….I had always been partial to brunettes anyway, and since Hef had 7 blonde girlfriends at the time, I figured that was a small sacrifice to be able to run with this crew!

The next few years I spent a good amount of my free time at the Playboy Mansion, whether it was Valentines Day, Fourth of July, or Hef’s birthday. What I realized was that Hef’s friends were quite a bit older than me which gave me a leg up when it came to meeting the girls since I was much closer to their age. I became good friends with some of the (non-blonde!) girls, and it really did feel like a small family. I couldn’t believe it, I was in my mid 20’s and a regular at the Playboy Mansion! People always talk about the heyday of the Mansion being the 70’s, but the early mid 2000’s weren’t so bad either! The parties Hef threw were the stuff that legends are made of. He spared no expense when it came to the food and entertainment and he’s one of the most generous, welcoming people I have ever met! Besides creating the Playboy lifestyle, Hugh Hefner is a pioneer in the world of journalism and there will never be anyone like him again. He paved the way for so many people to gain opportunities and it didn’t matter your age, race, or sex. Even though I came to the Playboy world late, I respected and appreciated all that it stood for and was happy to be a small part of it!

Eventually, Hef got more serious when it came to his relationships and the parties. While he was still hosting parties, they were getting a little smaller and less crazy than my first few years. I still visited but only a few times a year for the big parties, such as Mid-Summer Night’s Dream and Halloween. But no matter how long I was away, I was always welcomed back with open arms by my Playboy family, and would enjoy seeing my friends and meeting any new additions to the crew!

This brings me to my most recent visit to PBMW, New Years Eve 2014! While the attire for New Year’s isn’t as casual as the other parties, I figured it gave me a chance to get dressed up in my black-tie attire and strut my stuff! When I arrived, I saw familiar faces that were there that fateful night over 13 years ago when I made my first appearance. Hef is very loyal to his friends. Through thick and thin, they’re his friends to the end and are always there supporting him! The last night of 2013 was a doozy once again. Hef spared no expense in setting up his “playground for adults.” He
put a giant tent in his backyard and decorated it to the 9’s! There was great food served and plenty of booze for those who liked to wet their whistle to ring in the New Year! Hef’s wife Crystal was DJ-ing, there was a Big Band group that performed with dancers and everything and, of course, a countdown clock to let everyone know how close we were to ringing in a new year! When it came time for the countdown, everyone was on the dance floor and I was with two of my dearest friends, Alison and Joel, a married couple who have been going there even longer than me! They had seen me transform from a shy 21 year old who was too nervous to wear pajamas to his first party to the guy in the middle of the dance floor leading the count down for everyone! 3..2..1 Happy New Year!!!! Confetti and balloons were dropped from the ceiling, beautiful women surrounded me and the music played! I snapped pictures throughout the night so I could try and share my Mansion experience with you, but pictures never seem to be enough. It’s a place that must be seen to be believed and, while my photos give you a glimpse into this world, it can never do it justice or show just how cool it is! I stayed and danced for a couple hours and like that, the night was over, another Playboy Mansion Party in the books. While Hef is older now and things might not be as wild as they used to be, the Playboy Mansion can still throw a kick-ass party and will always have its place in history. I’m so lucky to say that I was a part of it!

One of my favorite interviews for my “Candid Candace Chicago” Watch312.com internet show occurred on December 20 when I had the privilege of interviewing “The View’s” newest co-host Jenny McCarthy and her darling beau actor Donnie Wahlberg. Besides being a former Playboy Playmate of the Year, she is also an author, activist and actress. The event was a fundraiser for a charity dear to her heart, Generation Rescue, at hot nightspot Parliament. But after my interview, I realized the buzz-worthy part of the event was the love-match in the making that I observed in front of the camera. Take a look and get the rice ready!

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The Woman’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society recently held its eighth annual All Aboard! Party amid the Garden’s festive indoor holiday and model train exhibition, Wonderland Express. In keeping with All Aboard! tradition, the benefit chairs, Marianne Bestler and Carole Sandner, evoked the theme of a grand train journey, “From Paris to Versailles in Style.” Peggy Carr, a Woman’s Board member since 1960, served as honorary chair of the event. Guests entered the event through Golden Gates to the Palace of Versailles, the home of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI, then traveled past a picture- perfect gingerbread village composed entirely of edible sweets. A fragrant, cedar-lined hall led guests to the Wonderland Express garden-scale train exhibition, featuring lush horticultural displays of holiday plants and 80 miniature replicas of Chicago landmarks. Upon exiting, guests were greeted with strains of classical French music provided by the Allium String Quartet, which played among café tables and sparkling lights, poinsettias and evergreens. Refreshments included champagne, cocktails and French-inspired appetizers from the event caterer, Culinary Landscape. Choices included steak tartare with cornichons, Dijon sauce grabiche; triple cream fromage with caramel apple jam and watercress on a red currant crostini; warm pots of Camembert, spiced pears, cranberry and toasted baguette; foie gras mousse with brandied cherries, black pepper brioche and wild arugula; and warm scallop gratiné with fennel-onion marmalade. Vocalist Lisa Yuen Sandner performed before dinner. Three dining areas staged by Designs by Jody recalled the grandeur of the royal residence of the last Bourbon king of France: the Garden of Versailles, Library of Louis XVI and Hall of Mirrors. French cheeses, wines and other flavors inspired the menu, which began with a first course of mâché with roasted red beets, toasted walnuts, French Roquefort and sherry vinaigrette with smoked salmon mousse in a petite eggshell with whipped crème fraîche and chervil. The entrée featured beef tenderloin bourguignon and dessert offered a duet of white chocolate mint pots de crème, candy cane brittle, and cranberry tartlet, gingerbread truffle, and vanilla crème anglaise. Yummy! Final destinations of the evening included a Crêpe Station and a Souvenir Station. The event raised $250,000 for the Woman’s Board “Growing the Future” campaign. Now in its third year, the effort will raise $1 million to fund the renovation of the English Walled Garden and replacement of trees damaged by the Emerald Ash Borer. The Woman’s Board is dedicated to supporting the Chicago Botanic Garden through advancement of conservation, education and horticulture. (Photos courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden)

I loved ABC 7’s NYE coverage! Their 23-year tradition continued with a new twist this year as Windy City LIVE joined the party! COUNTDOWN CHICAGO 2014 gave viewers a front row seat to the hottest parties, music, comedy and spectacular fireworks in and around Chicago. The only live, local New Year’s Eve show in Chicago was co-hosted by Ryan Chiaverini, Janet Davies, Mark Giangreco, Hosea Sanders, Val Warner, and Ji Suk Yi. The coverage included a magical night at Chicago’s elegant and historic Palmer House Hotel, a dance party at the South Side Parkway Ballroom, and a country/western good time at Toby Keith’s Restaurant and Bar inside Rosemont’s MB Financial Park Entertainment Complex. There were performances by Chicago Blues great Wayne Baker Brooks and American Idol’s Nick Lynch; a year-end comedy review from Zanies Comedy Club’s own Pat McGann; New Year’s resolutions from a kid’s perspective in a fun exchange with WGCI’s Tony Sculfield; and Ryan Chiaverini skating on thin ice when he showed off some of his favorite hockey moves at one of the coolest rinks around. Davies and Giangreco teamed up for the countdown as a spectacular fireworks display from Chicago’s Navy Pier exploded ushering in 2014. Congrats to all!

There was a nice crowd at Public Chicago on NYE, too! I love the feel of this place and think it’s a great spot for a party since there’s so many nooks and crannies. On this night, they had the library screening room blocked off for a party for the Chicago Bulls. There was a great buffet and the bartenders were all in a good mood. But the best part of the event was the fact that there was artwork scattered everywhere by one of my favorites, Bronzeville native Hebru Brantley! His style is described as being derived from graffiti-worn buildings and sneaker-hung telephone poles honoring memories of local legends. Saturday morning cartoons and comic books celebrating the triumphs of mythological heroes inspire him to tell stories. Catch him while you can!

I hope you will join me on Friday, March 14, when beloved designer Borris Powell debuts his fall/winter 2014 collection titled “FREEDOM” at Block 37! VIP tickets are $100 and can be purchased here! (To receive 5% off, just add “Candace” as your promo code). 🙂 www.ticketpeak.com/freedomBjP Come experience this all American inspired

Collection featuring dark/rich fabrics that will grab the attention of all fashion savvy individuals! The 2014 collection will feature daytime and evening wear with an assortment of bags for both men and women. Borris will also introduce a new line of accessories including his first ever men’s wallet as well as his first lipstick (in his signature RED) called “Red Garden.” This is a Standing Room Only event with the exception of VIP ticket holders. VIP ticket holders will gain early entrance to enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres one hour before showtime by Paramount Events Chicago and will also have access to a post show cocktail hour. To see all of the fun from the LAST FABULOUS BP Fashion Show, check out my Watch312 video below! His finale left guests breathless! You won’t want to miss this one! General Admission Tickets $40. (Standing Room only), VIP Tickets $100 (less 5% if you add “Candace” as your promo code!) www.ticketpeak.com/freedomBjP

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On Thursday, January 30, the Harris Theater for Music and Dance will present its first Eat (and Drink) to the Beat–a spinoff of the Theater’s popular Eat to the Beat series–with a special “Appy Hour” prior to a performance from the award-winning ensemble DanceWorks Chicago (DWC). Some of the city’s hippest food trucks will be on site to provide audience members with a variety of “apps” and food options. For the first time, the Theater will offer specialty cocktails and wine beverages to pair with food for a relaxing, post-work social gathering catered toward young business professionals of Chicago’s downtown area. In honor of the Harris Theater’s 10^th season, DWC will present a diverse four-piece program of works choreographed exclusively by Chicago-based choreographers, including a world premiere from Chicago favorite and Ruth Page Award winner Harrison McEldowney and aerial dance specialist Jeremy Plummer, recipient of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters 2013 Artistic Achievement Award. Tickets for the first Eat (and Drink) to the Beat are $5; subscriptions for the rest of the 2013-2014 Eat to the Beat series are $20, available at www.HarrisTheaterChicago.org , or by calling 312.334.7777.

One of Chicago’s most anticipated galas, Redmoon’s annual Spectacle Lunatique, Saturday, March 15,is a decadent night of inspired performance and culinary delights all in the industrial elegance of Redmoon’s 57,000-square foot warehouse studio in Pilsen. Over 1,000 of Chicago’s civic, cultural and business leaders gather for Spectacle Lunatique each year raising funds for Redmoon’s free public work that happens throughout the city, primarily in areas that are culturally underserved. This year, Lunatique’s theme of “Redmoon: At the Scale of the City” will inspire the evening’s offerings as performances throughout the space give guests an exclusive preview of the Spring Spectacle and the designs and planning of the inaugural Great Chicago Fire Festival, due to take place in October. This year, over a dozen of Chicago’s top chefs will be represented in “tasting experiences” throughout the evening, all presented in Redmoon’s signature style combining imagination, whimsy and the unexpected. Music and an open bar complete the experience. Howard Tullman, President and CEO of Flashpoint Academy, Chairman and CEO of Experiencia, Inc. and newly named CEO of Chicago tech hub 1871, will be honored as the 2014 Galvanizer Award recipient. Each year, Redmoon presents this award to an individual who galvanizes communities for a more vibrant Chicago. (VIP: $625, General: $450, Late Night: $100. Tickets are available by calling the Redmoon Box Office at 312-850-8440 x123 or online at www.redmoon.org .. (To see how exciting and magical this event will be, check out this Telly Award-winning segment from a past Spectacle Lunatique party on my “Candid Candace Chicago” show on Watch312.com below:

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Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Guild Board of Directors celebrates its 30^thFantasy of the Opera in the Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive., on Friday, January 31, 2014, beginning at 6:30 p.m. “The hottest party in the coldest month” – featuring drinks, music, and dancing all in the beautiful environs of the historic Civic Opera House. This year’s theme, “Petals and
Pearls,” is inspired by Lyric Opera’s beautiful new production of Madama Butterfly. The lobby will be transformed into a beautiful Japanese garden, and to enhance the evening, special performances and demonstrations will take place throughout the evening – taiko drummers, an origami presentation, and an ikebana floral showcase.

The Cabaret performance in the Ardis Krainik Theatre begins at 8:00pm and features some of the biggest stars from Lyric’s current season. Music director Sir Andrew Davis returns as Master of Ceremonies. Christine Brewer (The Sound of Music), Ana María Martínez (Rusalka and Otello), Brandon Jovanovich (Rusalka), Eric Owens (Rusalka), Jill Grove (Rusalka), and David Cangelosi (Die Fledermaus and Madama Butterfly) will perform selections from the great American songbook and Broadway classics. (For tickets, starting at $275, and more info, click here or call 312.827.5656.

While I was shopping for gifts for the holidays, I realized that some of these ideas might be good for gift giving suggestions for Valentine’s Day, too! So, I’ve put together a list of 10 of my favorite things from around town….everything from makeup to jewelry to art. Maybe you’ll find something YOU like, too!

1) Caron Powder Puffs: Chuck and I discovered these luxurious, goosedown powder puffs at one of the first Caron shops to open in Paris many years ago. They will spoil you forever and their beautiful colors make this item a lovely gift for any occasion. They come in three sizes, too, beginning at $45! (www.parfumscaron.com)

2) Furla Riviera Lux leopard clutch: I love the combo of camel and leopard on this clutch. It’s also the perfect size, not too little and not too big. For $648, you get a lot of bang for your buck and, as we all know, leopard is classic and timeless. (Furla Boutique, 106 E. Oak St.)

3) Swarovski “Triumphal” cuff: This stunning bracelet is only $125 and is a terrific statement piece that would go with everything from formal to jeans. (Swarovski Boutique, 540 N. Michigan Ave.)

4) Louis Vuitton bag charms: Change the look of your handbag instantly without the cost of buying a new one with these chic bag charms. They come in a wide variety of styles and price ranges but “Insolence” is my favorite! (www.louisvuitton.com)

5) Borris Powell‘s Signature Handbags/Clutches: I love this local designer and his eye-catching fashions but I’m also hooked on his signature handbags and clutches! They come in a wide variety of styles, colors and patterns so you can choose what’s best for you. They start at $350, have a removable strap and are lined with suede. The Signature BjP Tote comes in 3 sizes and starts at $600. (www.borrispowell.com)

6) CAMP Cosmetics‘ Candid Candace lipstick: Yes, I know I might be a bit prejudiced but I do believe it’s THE perfect coral and is especially perfect to keep the doldrums of winter at bay! CAMP Cosmetics’ founder Michael Perich has a wide range of other fabulous makeup, too. (http://www.campcosmetics.com/campaign.html)

7) I love all things Hermes but, sadly, a lot of it is out of my price range, BUT these exquisite horn necklaces and earrings are reasonably priced and packed with style. And, like Louis Vuitton, these designer pieces only seem to increase in value on the vintage market. (Fidele Corne horn necklaces ($275) and Isthme earrings ($430): (Hermes, 25 E. Oak Street, Chicago)

8) Pomellato Gourmette Knot Ring: I love this shop on Oak Street and think their jewelry is oh-so chic, especially their sterling silver and marcasite knot ring priced at $755. And they have the cutest store manager, Alayna Crenshaw! (Pomellato, 41 E. Oak Street)

9) Makeup Forever’s HD (High Definition) Powder: This is a miracle making product that allows you to highlight your best features and hide dark circles. It’s particularly great for on-camera work or photo shoots. I love it! (www.Sephora.com)

10) And last, but certainly not least, no home is complete without a gorgeous portrait from Rosemary Fanti. Her artistry makes everyone sigh and wish they looked as good as she portrays them.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace and I hope to see you at one or more of these wonderful events around town! Until next time, stay warm and here’s my fun-filled thoughts on this wintry weather! LOL!

Love, as always,

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Television

December 21, 2013 · 1:19 pm

A VICTORIA’S SECRET PINK PARTY WITH A SUPERMODEL (VIDEO!)

PLUS MY TOP NYE PARTY PICKS; JOFFREY'S NUTCRACKER FAMILY DINNER; "SHOCKING PINK & PEARL GREY"; WING'S "SWEET HOME CHICAGO"; ANGIE'S COOL BOOK PARTY; HENSON'S ROCK STARS; 3ARTS AWARDS; CONNECT.INSPIRE.GROW'S HOLIDAY BASH; A COMEDY CAMEO FOR BEAR NECESSITIES; AMY'S NEW GIG; A STORY OF FRIENDSHIP; CARY AND JOHN TIE THE KNOT; EYE PREFER PARIS; CAMP IN ORYX AND SO MUCH MORE!

Victoria's Secret Pink supermodel Elsa Hosk hosted a packed viewing party at the store at Water Tower Place recently to watch the hot VS Fashion Show on CBS. Pink Nation fans lined up for hours to meet Elsa and watch the show while reclining on cushions with blankets and big smiley face balloons. The glamorous and articulate spokesmodel, Hosk, was dressed adorably in fashions from the VS Pink line's lifestyle collection. Watch all the fun here on "Candid Candace Chicago" on Watch312.com!

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The Joffrey Ballet's annual Nutcracker Family Dinner hosted by its Women's Board is one of my favorite events for many reasons, but the biggest one is seeing the smiles on so many kids' faces as they run from station to station either choosing sweets, decorating cookies and ballet pointe shoes or enjoying magic tricks from the fabulous performer, the Great Frankini (Frank Glab). This year, the venue changed to the historic Standard Club, arguably one of the most elegant spots in the city. With dark wood paneling, high ceilings and fireplaces burning in every room, how could you not feel like a character out of Downton Abbey? And then add the sounds of squealing happy children, well, you get the picture. And then I thought, how special would it be to hear about this event from those who it was created for, the kids? So, for the first time EVER on Candid Candace, I'm featuring two very special guest bloggers who also happened to be co-chairs of the event along with their mothers. May I introduce CJ Ricci (age 8) and Sarah Stone (age 15), and their thrilling accounts of this 16th annual event that had 575 guests in attendance:

CJ Ricci, who co-chaired with her mom Laura Kofoid, had this to say about the Family Dinner: "I was so excited to host the Nutcracker Family Dinner with my mom. She has been taking me to Joffery performances for a long time and it‘s a tradition that my family sees The Nutcracker every year. When I got to the Standard Club, the first thing I did was look at all the activity stations. I decided to first get my nails done at the Rock Candy manicure station so that they would be dry when I ate cotton candy. I did red as my base color, then I got sparkles over it and got a tiny Christmas tree on both my ring fingers. By the time my nails were dry, it was time for the Spin Spun Cotton Candy Station. They had two flavors: blue raspberry and peppermint. I decided to get the blue raspberry. I saw my friend Maya and ran over to her. She said she was looking forward to decorating a pointe shoe, so we went over to the Allegro booth. I used blue and white snowflakes then added a sparkly blue ribbon on the edges. I saw my cousins Cami, Claire, Lucy, Austin, and Kendall. When we got to the ballroom for dinner, I couldn’t believe how pretty it was. There were Nutcracker cupcakes on each table with a sign that said, “In the Land of Sweets, it is proper etiquette to eat dessert first.” So we did! For dinner they served mini burgers, macaroni & cheese, and fries. Then chocolate and peppermint milk shakes for dessert."

And Sarah Stone (age 15), who co-chaired with her mom Carol, gives a teen’s perspective: "The Nutcracker Family Dinner was a beautiful event which truly epitomized the warm family connections we all love around this time of year. The performance was amazing, as always, and was the perfect segue to a fun and delicious night mimicking the wonders from the ballet. Being among the older kids I imagined a night more aimed towards a younger audience might not be as entertaining, but this event was a blast for all ages and I may have had more fun than many of youngest guests. As the night continued, I shamelessly enjoyed each minute – singing and dancing with my friends as we belted out every lyric. The Nutcracker Family Dinner makes everyone, no matter the age, feel like a little kid again—which is what the holidays are all about."

This family-friendly dinner began with a thrilling matinee performance of Robert Joffrey’s holiday favorite, The Nutcracker. Audience members enjoyed this holiday tradition that featured brilliant costumes, larger than life scenery, entrancing storytelling and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Following the ballet, guests were whisked away on festive trolleys to the Club for cocktails, lively entertainment and dazzling “Activity Stations” , as Sarah and CJ mentioned in their fabulous accounts. Guests were seated in the Grand Ballroom for a delicious holiday meal that began with dessert first—as is customary in the “Land of Sweets.” Pierre Lockett, Joffrey's director of community engagement, welcomed the crowd while DJ Brad Blumenthal and Energy Productions kept everyone moving with music, dancing, games, and contests throughout the night. The event raised more than $140,000 for the Joffrey's programming and community outreach programs. (The Nutcracker runs through December 28 at the Auditorium Theatre). For More Images See This Gallery!

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted a group of members and their guests at the Museum recently where they enjoyed a presentation by fashion historian Dimitri Papalexis followed by a luncheon and champagne reception in the Chicago Room. Mr. Papalexis’ lecture, Shocking Pink and Pearl Grey, took the audience through the life and careers of two very different, and now iconic designers, Elsa Schiaparelli and Christian Dior. Schiaparelli was often scandalized in the press for her unconventional designs, which incorporated surrealist imagery inspired by artists of the time, including Salvatore Dali and Jean Cocteau. On the other hand, Christian Dior began his career as a rich gallery owner before turning to design. He is known for creating the “New Look,” worn by legendary women such as Rita Hayworth and Margot Fonteyn. Both designers, however, shared common ground through their great success in the United States, where their designs were sold and admired significantly. Pieces by both Dior and Schiaparelli are represented in the Chicago History Museum Collection, and guests were treated to a special viewing of garments by the designers at the event. The Chicago History Museum serves as a unique national resource for the preservation and understanding of history through the collection, examination and documentation of costume. Many artifacts in the Museum's collection were made by Chicago's dressmakers, milliners, and manufacturers and include a number of items worn by prominent Chicagoans and Americans. Some unique pieces include personal items belonging to Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, Michael Jordan's basketball uniform, and Mahalia Jackson's choir robe. The earliest pieces include suits worn by George Washington and John Adams. The Museum's extensive couture holdings, ranging from Charles Worth gowns to the innovative designs of Yohji Yamamoto, have earned an international reputation. (www.ChicagoHistory.org) (Photos by Robert Kusel).

Led by Honorary co-chairs Jackie and Glenn Tilton and event co-chairs Anna Bilton and Meghan Norton, volunteers for WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger) raised a record $800,000 at the organization’s tenth annual Sweet Home Chicago fundraiser recently at The Four Seasons Hotel. Since it started in 2004, Sweet Home Chicago has become one of Chicago’s most successful brunch fundraisers with this year’s benefit bringing the total raised to more than $5 million to help support WINGS’ Safe House. More than 480 people, about 1/2 children, decorated gingerbread houses, visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus, stopped for a family portrait by photographer Curtis Newborn and danced to music performed by Ralph’s World. Proceeds support WINGS’ domestic violence shelters, programs and services for women and children in the Chicago area. WINGS’ operating budget is funded by corporations, foundations and individuals, as well as revenues from WINGS three northwest suburban resale shops with less than 20 percent coming from government sources. In 2014 construction begins for WINGS Metro, Chicago’s first new domestic violence shelter in 10 years, which will be located on the southwest side of Chicago. (For more info, visit www.wingsprogram.com)(Photos by Waldemar Reichert)

I can't wait to celebrate New Year' Eve! It's one of the most festive party times of the year. I have two favorites starting with one at The Langham Chicago. The famous Black and White ball of 1966 (hosted by Truman Capote) set the standard for mid-century chic-ness with guests dressed in black and white and donning exotic masks. In a playful nod to an era captivated by fun and frivolity, Travelle at The Langham, Chicago will welcome in the New Year with a festive party that celebrates in black and white with a nod to Capote's former extravaganza that captured the imagination of the world wide press with its celeb-filled roster. Everything will be in keeping with the theme, including the delicious, multi-course NYE dinner prepared by Executive Chef Tim Graham and Pastry Chef Scott Green which will include courses ranging from black and white bow tie pasta to black and white croquembouche (cream puff) balls. (There will be two seatings). At 5:00 p.m., a three-course menu will be featured that will be followed by a five-course black and white gala dinner starting at 7:30 p.m. and continuing into the New Year. Guests joining the second seating are encouraged, but certainly not required, to wear their favorite mask along with black and white attire. The recipient whose mask is deemed the most festive will win a magnum of Veuve Clicquot champagne for their table! (Price is $175 per person plus tax). For more info, visit www.travellechicago.com or call 312-923-9988. Happy New Year!!!

I hope you can join me at Public Chicago for a New Year's Eve party with Genuine Entertainment's Vincent Anzalone and Lonnie Rodriguez along with hosts Jerry Azumah, Natalie Bomke, Corri McFadden, Felipe Ospina, Kevin Conroy Smith and Ed Swiderski. There will be guest DJs all night long as well as great dinner packages plus a Recovery Brunch the following day! Check out the details here!

Celebrity publicist Angie Banicki celebrated the launch of her first book, “30 Before 30: Traveling Under the Influence,” with an elite bash at Studio Paris that included movie producer Hilary Shor and actor Chris McDonald. The Hollywood connector with small town roots in Illinois, conceived the idea for the travel memoir after burning out from her high-profile job. The memoir, curated by clients-turned-friends that include Eva Longoria, Jessica and Ashlee Simpson, Forest Whitaker, David Arquette and more, chronicles the adventures she embarked on at their bequest. Guests sipped on Thatcher’s Organic Liqueur cocktails while enjoying Paris Club’s passed hors d’oeuvres and Sprinkles cupcakes and were encouraged to chase after their own dreams with a ‘What’s On Your Bucket List?’ board. (The book can be purchased online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Or locally at Maash Boutique, 3828 N. Lincoln Avenue 60613).

Congrats to Kathleen Henson and her team at Henson Consulting Inc. for being named a finalist for the prestigious PRWeek 2014 Boutique Agency of the Year Award. The River North-based firm is the only agency in Chicago nominated for the honor. HC represents some of the best brands in the country, including Kraft Foods, Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Walter E. Smithe, Coldwell Banker and The Pampered Chef. The agency has grown to a staff of 20 since the firm’s humble beginnings in Kathleen’s basement in January 2001. HC will celebrate its 13th birthday in January 2014! #WINNING

Almost 150 guests attended the grand opening of LOFT at Roosevelt Collection (150 W. Roosevelt Road in Chicago) with glam hosts Catherine DeOrio, Liz Schneider, Revae Schneider and Samantha Saifer-Berngard recently. The holiday date night included complimentary trolley rides to and from LOFT with pick-ups near the Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue. Attendees enjoyed spiked apple cider and a wintery menu of pumpkin spiced donuts, butternut squash crepes and mini Shepherd pies all created by Truffleberry Market. Ladies also had the opportunity to get glam with The Stylisted who provided beauty touch-ups and five minute makeovers. DJ Lani Love kept the music flowing while guests mixed, mingled and shopped at this trendy, affordable boutique that has 500 stores across the US. (www.Loft.com)

Was so thrilled to be reunited with my Dream Team for photo shoots, FAB photographer Paul Sherman and makeup artist extraordinaire, Marcus Geeter! The last time we shot together was for my first TCW Magazine cover and I've always adored them and their amazing talents. I highly recommend them for any and all of your photo and makeup needs! Paul shoots delightful photos of pets, too!! (www.shermanphoto.pro and www.marcusgeetermakeupartist.com )

3Arts announced the ten recipients of its 6th annual 3Arts Awards, presented to women artists, artists of color and artists with disabilities working in the performing, teaching and visual arts. The awards were presented by the 3Arts Board of Directors and Awards Host Committee in a celebratory gathering at the Museum of Contemporary Art. 3Arts has awarded over $1 million in total grants to more than 100 Chicago artists in the past six years. The honorees each received an unrestricted $15,000 award to put to use according to their individual needs and priorities. The 2013 recipients are dancer Michel Rodriguez and choreographer Vershawn Sanders Ward; instrumentalists Lisa Kaplan and Ronnie Kuller; teaching artists Marta Garcia and Robert Schleifer; actors Mierka Girten and Kelli Simpkins; and visual artists Irena Knezevic and Cauleen Smith. “In the past six years, 3Arts has distributed over $1,000,000 to artists across Chicago, a testament to our dedication to supporting a diversity of artistic voices in our community. The 3Arts Award is the first step and the foundation for our ongoing support of each awardee. They are now eligible for a network of offerings designed to help them build momentum in their practice over time including project support, residency fellowships, promotion, and informal and formal professional development programs," said 3Arts Executive Director Esther Grimm. Driven by the belief that the vitality and creative spirit of Chicago is reliant upon a diverse spectrum of artistic voices, 3Arts advocates for women artists, artists of color and artists with disabilities working in the performing (dance, music and theater), teaching and visual arts. (For more information on 3Arts, visit www.3arts.org ).

I'm so excited that CAMP Cosmetic's Candid Candace (coral) lipstick is featured on the Wish List in Oryx Magazine, Qatar Airways in-flight magazine!!! There were only 8 items listed and this lipstick was right at the TOP! OMGoodness! (To buy YOURS, click here!)

I was so honored to be a guest speaker for Connect.Inspire.Grow at the Wyndham. Thanks so much to founder Monika Rydzewski and her glam team for putting together a wonderful holiday networking event that also featured Common Ground Agency founder and inspirational speaker Sherman Wright. Jillian Conley was also scheduled but came down with a cold the night of the event so her My Deal TV show co-host, Jeff Conway, filled in with great enthusiasm and a wonderful story, too! The event also benefitted "A Safe Haven", a non-profit that empowers families and individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis to achieve sustainable self-sufficiency. (www.ASafeHaven.org)

The next evening, I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone to do a stand-up comedy cameo in the hit show, Old Jews Telling Jokes at the Royal George Theatre. Thanks to legendary comedian Tom Dreesen, Khaled Taha and my brother-in-law Dr. Osmar Steinwald for their advice, help and material! I have no idea how anyone in the world does stand-up! It was the hardest thing I've ever done! Catch this funny show that's been extended through March 30 starring SNL alum Tim Kazurinsky, Dara Cameron, Alex Goodrich, Renee Matthews and Gene Weygandt! Other cameo appearances will include Illinois Senate President John Cullerton and State Rep Sara Feigenholtz (Jan. 8) and best-selling author Sara Paretsky (Feb. 5). Author Scott Turow made his stand-up debut on December 17. (A portion of each of these performance's proceeds will benefit a charity. Mine benefitted Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation). (Click here for tickets and more info).

I'm so excited for style expert/author/TV fashion maven, Amy Tara Koch! She is now offering her fashion savvy knowledge as a personal stylist! Her unerring eye will help you edit your wardrobe and she'll shop with you to nail your perfect style! You've seen her share her knowledge on all of the morning shows and now she's available to help us one-on-one! I can't wait! Congrats Amy!! (www.amytarakoch.com) Follow her as she takes over Travel & Leisure's Twitter feed for a family trip to Miami here!

Congrats to longtime partners Cary Frank and John Cannon! After 33 years together, they tied the knot on December 20 in Davenport, Iowa where they were legally married by Chief Justice Greve! Long may you love…..:-)

Chicago is beautiful all lit up for Christmas but I also love seeing the scenes from Paris that blogger Richard Nahem shares on his website, "Eye Prefer Paris". Ex-New Yorker Nahem shares an insider's guide to the City of Light on his popular blog with fabulous photos that's written from his 18th century apartment in the fashionable Marais district! If you love Paris like I do, then add this website to your list!

I love this supportive story of friendship….. Chad Silver and his buddy Brian Levitas have been friends since grade school. In October, Brian told Chad he felt rundown and asked him to take a look at a lump on his neck. Chad thought it might be mono but, two days later, Brian was diagnosed with lymphoma. Chad and his other friend Logan, along with an army of supporters, decided to raise money in Brian's honor for One Step Camp, an organization that provides support for kids with cancer. Brian's being treated at Lurie's and sees little kids suffering everyday so he's thrilled with this choice and so grateful for everyone's help. So far, 122% of their goal of $50,000 has been met with current funds raised at $61,142. To join Team Brian, click here! #SupportiveFriends

Hope you can tune into WCIU's "You & Me This Morning" on Friday, December 27 when I will return as co-host with the always fabulous Jeanne Sparrow! I can't wait and I hope you'll be watching!

Stay tuned for my interview with the View's Jenny McCarthy and her hunky boyfriend Donnie Wahlberg coming soon on Watch312.com! I predict a wedding…you'll know why after you see the video! :-)

Our holiday plans are in full gear and our new place is brimming with Christmas cheer! Here's wishing you the joy of family, the gift of friends, and the best of everything in 2014. Thanks for reading my labor of love, Candid Candace!

With Love & Wintry Wishes,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Just for fun……

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Television

November 27, 2013 · 9:58 am

GIVING THANKS IN CHICAGO

PLUS STEPHANE AND MICHI'S STYLE WATCH; CHICAGO URBAN LEAGUE; ZOOLA 2013; BOLLYWOOD IN CHICAGO WITH ANUPY; BARBIE IN CHICAGO; JUBALEE; LA RABIDA AWARDS; TRIB'S BLUE SKY INNOVATION; L.A.'S TALK OF THE TOWN GALA; WORKING MOTHER OF THE YEAR; MATT'S A "DRAMA QUEEN"; GIBSON'S NEW PARTY SPACE; eDROP-OFF'S NEW HOME AND SO MUCH MORE!

I love Mike Sneed's "grateful" column in the Sun-Times every year. I love reading about what people are thankful for. It's always inspiring and enlightening to read joyful thoughts. I decided, for this Thanksgiving,
that I needed to remind myself about what has been important to me, too. It doesn't have to be earth shattering things, but rather it's the little moments that make a life full. I remember in one of Sneed's columns, she wrote about being thankful for her backyard birds who she loved listening to over a cup of coffee. These lists serve much like Oprah's Gratitude Journals. Sometimes you lose track of what's truly important in life, be they big or small things, but by writing them down they're brought back to the forefront of your mind. Besides the obvious, good health for my loved ones, I also have some beautiful moments that I have been grateful for. In no particular order, here they are. For a birthday one year, Chuck wrote out letters on legal sheets spelling out "happy birthday" that went all the way from upstairs into our kitchen. I still have the yellow sheets. I'm grateful for the beautiful park (Washington Park) that's across the street from our building. I'm grateful to have two crazy Chihuahuas that make us laugh (and sometimes cry) every day. I'm grateful to have a mother-in-law who's 93 years young and to have a loving stepson, Charley. I'm grateful to have been raised in a small town and I'm thankful for the Flat Creek Baptist Church in East Carondelet, Illinois, that welcomed me with open arms when I was young and needed direction. I'm thankful to have been raised by Mary and Jim Johnson who taught me what it was like to be discriminated against and rise above it with grace and dignity. I'm grateful to have seen the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York. We've been a few times and it's more exciting every time I see it and always put you in the mood for the holidays. And speaking of the holidays, I'm grateful for WLIT's (93.9 FM)ALL-Christmas music programming. I'm also grateful for surviving our move after 22 years in one place. It was hell getting here but it's heaven now. Living in Chicago is a blessing since I think it's the coolest, most
gorgeous place in the country with the nicest people. I'm grateful for the music of Cole Porter, Karen Akers, anything French, Diana Krall and, of course, Sinatra. I'm grateful to have the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to watch on television while I anticipate the day with family. I'm grateful for the friends I have and the ones I've yet to meet. I'm grateful to have been blessed with high energy. My mom and dad were always the last ones to leave a party so I guess it's no surprise. And last but not least, I'm so grateful to have this blog to write that I hope you enjoy and I'm thankful to have a voice in the Chicago Tribune every Sunday to spotlight worthy charities as well as my Watch312.com internet TV show. :-) I could go on and on, of course, but you get the idea. I hope this inspires you to make your own lists and I hope you have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Style Watch Alert! Designer Stephane St. Jaymes is definitely one to watch! Although, he's very well known in other parts of the world, he's relatively new to Chicago HOWEVER our very own trendsetter/celeb host Michi Marshall, is about to change all this. She introduced this creative man recently at Tocco to some of the top fashionistas in town for a private get-together that included beautiful models, display windows showcasing his designs, a banquet table filled with his drawings, sketch book and fabric swatches and a very appreciative crowd. PR glam gal extraordinaire Margaret O'Connor, Stephane's publicist, introduced Michi and Stephane when they were both her guests at a private event at the Art Institute's Fashion and Modernism Show. They immediately had a connection and began talking fashion. Stephane is a London-trained designer with an impressive background. He worked with some of the top designers there including Elisabeth Emmanuelle, Michiko Koshino, Alexander McQueen, John Galliano Temperley London and Giles Deason. In the mid-2000's, he took on more private clients, designing for London society, Ascot and other high profile functions and society weddings. Michi has always had a passion for fashion. She decided to pursue her dreams after earning two degrees with honors from University of Central Florida (where she met her husband Brandon) and entered the Miami International University of Art & Design. She transferred a year later to the Illinois Institute of Art Chicago and will graduate next year with a degree in Fashion Merchandising. She plans to open her own boutique called "Michi" which is sure to be a success! On this night, Michi showed up at Tocco, one of my fav Italian restaurants, wearing the most glamorous cocktail dress designed, of course, by Stephane. With only one fitting, the dress fit her perfectly, thanks to his unerring precision. Michi introduced Stephane recounting how he learned to sew from his mother and aunts when he was just a teenager. He enrolled at Redbridge Technical College in East London before going on to the London College of Fashion. Stephane was humble when introduced and said he was the happiest when designing and making beautiful clothes. He said he met Margaret only two months ago and that she was his "fashion tsunami." He said Margaret talked to him about branding and seeking out the right opportunities so he is well on the way to the top of the fashion heap with her expert guidance. Midway through the event, Brandon, arrived to give support to his wife.&#016
0; He made it a point to stay out of the limelight wanting her to have this night all to herself. When I peeked at him in the back of the room, he was taping his wife's speech. It was too sweet for words to see how supportive they are to one another. Stephane will be introducing his 2014 Spring Collection in early 2014 with Margaret already making plans for the big event. His studio is located in the Bridgeport Art Center. Catch him while you can! (Photos by Amie Hana)

Driven by the theme, The Power of Opportunity: Moving Chicago Forward, the Chicago Urban League, along with many of the city’s business, civic and elected leaders, hosted another successful Golden Fellowship Dinner at the Hilton Chicago. Committed to the success of Chicago’s African American communities, proceeds from the dinner provide financial support for the programs, collaboration and advocacy work of the Chicago Urban League with key focus areas that include education, human capital development, workforce development, entrepreneurship and housing. Andrea L. Zopp, president and CEO of the League highlighted some of the organization’s success stories over the past year but challenged the crowd of more than 1,600 guests to do more to move the city of Chicago forward. “At the Chicago Urban League, we are informed by our history and we see things differently,” said Zopp. “We know that we can surmount the insurmountable. With the power of opportunity lives can be transformed, neighborhoods can be renewed and communities can be restored.” This year’s gala was co-chaired by E. Scott Santi, president and CEO of ITW and Gregory D. Wasson, president and CEO of Walgreens. “Real change can’t happen without the right tools,” said Santi. “The key is having the necessary resources. The Chicago Urban League provides people with the necessary tools so they can be empowered and find their own fulfillment.” Wasson added, “In recent years, the Urban League has helped hundreds of homeowners avoid foreclosure and thousands of businesses to grow and create jobs. All this adds up to what reform advocates call “real change” that helps families, communities and cities by empowering individuals.” Best known for his roles in the landmark television miniseries “Roots” and his Academy Award winning performance in “An Officer and A Gentleman,” Louis Gossett, Jr. accepted the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights along with Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. The award is named for Bill Berry, who led the Chicago Urban League from 1956-1969 and was a key leader in the civil rights movement in Chicago. Both Gossett and Jackson were presented with the honor for making a mark on the nation through their hard work, perseverance and creativity. The 52^nd Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner was hosted by comedian/actor Damon Williams and culminated with a show stopping performance by legendary R&B group The O’Jays. Established in 1916, the Chicago Urban League works for economic, educational and social progress for African Americans and promotes strong sustainable communities through advocacy, collaboration and innovation. For more information, visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. (Photos by Powell Photography)

Inspired by the graceful swans of one of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks, the Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo brought together 180 guests at ZooLA on November 14, a live auction in which fantasy took flight. Marking a departure from the intimate home setting of past years, ZooLA 2013 was held at The Casino in Streeterville and raised funds for Lincoln Park Zoo. The ballroom sparkled with beautiful jewel tones as eager guests perused the catalogue of more than 20 auction items. Hors d’oeuvres and small plates were served, while custom cocktails were prepared by mixologist Revae Schneider. A lovely display of designer handbags filled with surprise experiences beckoned guests to enter a pre-auction raffle. Auctioneer and Board of Trustees member, John D. Fornengo, presented the once-in-a-lifetime experiences, luxury pieces, and unique offerings that delivered the “wow” factor and beyond. Premiere packages included a dazzling Harry Winston Midnight Collection Ladies’ Timepiece; a one-week stay at the number one Four Seasons ski resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming; a once-in-a-lifetime experience for two at Super Bowl XLVIII in February, 2014; a one-week stay for two at Rancho La Puerta Spa and a pair of VIP seats to a taping of “Dancing with the Stars. Bridget Campbell, event co-chair, reflected on the enchanting evening, “We would like to thank our guests for their overwhelming enthusiasm and support. The funds raised contribute to maintaining this community treasure,” she said. Denise Stefan Ginascol, event co-chair, added, “This type of support helps keep the zoo free and accessible to all.” Notable attendees included Dana and Ricky Abt; Elizabeth and John Cusack; Holly and Peter Geraci; John Ginascol; Diana Hall; Wendy Krimins; Tina and Mike Leopardo; Roberta Olshansky; Myra and John Reilly; Terry Sullivan; Kimbra Walter; Lincoln Park Zoo Board of Trustees event Liaison, Elizabeth Mihas; Peggy White, Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo President; and Kevin Bell, Lincoln Park Zoo President and CEO. The event raised more than $250,000, the most ever raised by a Women's Board Live Auction! ZooLA will support the Women’s Board pledge to maintain Lincoln Park Zoo’s invaluable presence and worldwide leadership in conservation, education and animal care as well as supporting the construction of the Regenstein Macaque Forest, the first new animal habitat to be built at the zoo in over eight years.

It was a Bollywood Blowout on November 15^th when 500 came out to celebrate Diwali, the festive South Asian New Year, at Stan Mansion. Hosted by Anupy Singla (author of
two best-selling Indian cookbooks and co-founder of Indian As Apple Pie) along with Vandana Walia (Creative Director of Vchilli, a South Asian event planning company), Shari Duffy (Shari Duffy Events) and Ladies Night Out, an event production company, the evening featured Indian food, dance and fashion. Chicago-based Indian restaurants that included Gaylord Restaurants, Indian Garden of Chicago Peacock Cuisine of India and the popular Thalia Spice offered mouth-watering food including samosas, veggie wraps and Asian/Indian fusion bites. New York City based, DJ Rekha, who has performed at the White House, was flown in to spin traditional Punjabi tunes adding to the authentic Indian flavor of the event. Charisma Boutique produced a stunning runway show of traditional Indian fashions. Rita Boorgu, the owner, spent the previous week outfitting local media and social personalities in South Asian fashions and jewels to create buzz. Some of the twenty-six runway models included Dwana De La Cerna, Debi Lilly, Nancy Loo, Margaret O'Connor, Lily Gulik, Karyn Calabrese, Sneha Dixit, Toria Emas, Wendy Widom, Beth Rosen, Monica Eng, Pam Jones, Chicago Tribune's Bill Daley and MJ Tam. Gigi from GiGi’s Playhouse and Paiy Hans, a model and actress, opened the runway show. Dancers, dressed in native costumes entertained the crowd along with Dohl (drum) players, flame twirlers and acrobats. Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro, dressed in their own Indian finery, were VIP guests at the event. (GiGi’s Playhouse is a non-profit that supports children with Downs Syndrome and was the beneficiary of some of the proceeds). What a fun night! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins)

A pink carpet, a pink photo backdrop and accents of white and blue set the stage for the first “Barbie in Chicago” event brought to life by creative photographer Amie Hana with the help of some friends. It all started with an idea Amie had to create stylized photo shoots for people in their favorite Barbie or Ken look. She thought it would be a fun theme for an event but needed someone with experience to help her realize her vision. She looked no further than Vincent Tan, owner of the popular Simply Thalia and Thalia Spice restaurants, to partner with her. Vince brought in Block 37 (where Simply Thalia is located) as the event venue and tapped into the talents and resources of Art of Imagination and Juliet Tan Floral design to plan the décor and Tablescapes Party Rentals rounded out the event plans. When the night arrived, many guests turned up in their favorite Barbie/Ken interpretations, some recreating a look from a Barbie doll they had as a child while others chose a modern twist with looks from Yoga Barbie to Mikimoto Barbie, and even a Ken who looked a lot like “Happy Days” Fonzie! While everyone was enjoying great food, signature pink and blue cocktails music and entertainment, “Barbie Dolls from Around the World” modeled throughout the room. Jillian Conley, author of Dating Chase Walker and Jeff Conway, TV Personality and Emmy Nominated Producer, were the emcees for the night and recognized the event beneficiary, Dress for Success, a nonprofit that provides clothing to low-income women. A runway show produced by Benjamin Cottrell Designs followed with exciting designs by Borris Powell, Mark Roscoe and Eileen Fisher. The finale ended on a note of deliciousness when Shanon Lersch, a Chicago Bulls Luvabull and former Miss Illinois USA, stepped onto the runway in an elaborate chocolate gown created by award-winning pastry chef, Omar
Martinez and Mark Roscoe Design. Live entertainment was provided by De'Borah, a Season 3 contestant on The Voice, and Divalicious entertainer/ reporter/actress, Jovie Calma who packs a huge voice into a tiny frame. Guests danced the night away to the hot sounds by DJ Corey Sandford. Can't wait for your next big idea Amie! (Thanks to PR gal extraordinaire Margaret O'Connor for the info, too, and support of this fun event!)

The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), the world’s first year-round presenter of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts, launched its 24th season with JUBALEE, its annual gala benefit supporting performance, education and community programs. This special evening, hosted by broadcast legend, civic leader and all-around nice guy Bill Kurtis, took place October 28 at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. At this year’s JUBALEE, CHRP honored Mayor Rahm Emanuel with its annual JUBA! Award for Extraordinary Commitment to the Community, Dance and Arts Education. Guests celebrated Mayor Emanuel’s relentless commitment to promoting dance, the arts and civic engagement by every Chicagoan. He joins the distinguished company of past JUBA! Award honorees including Savion Glover, Gregory Hines, Bill Irwin, Ted and Susan Oppenheimer, and Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra. The evening began with a cocktail reception and a silent auction, followed by performances featuring Ian Berg, Starinah Dixon and Nico Rubio—former CHRP scholarship students now touring nationally and internationally—with Greg Spero on piano, and ensembles FootworKINGz, Mexican Dance Ensemble, M.A.D.D. Rhythms West/Better Boys Foundation and members of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras. CHRP Founder and Director Lane Alexander presented Mayor Emanuel with the JUBA Award, noting the Mayor’s “belief in the essential role that the arts play not only in the life of the community, but in the private life of each individual. I’ve heard you talk about the transformative, healing and ennobling power of the arts and your passionate belief—shown through your actions—that the arts are not optional.” The Mayor, inspired by the performances he had just seen, and a video of members of Chicago’s dance community, discarded his prepared remarks. He commented, “When you think about Chicago, we are the most American of American cities, and there is no greater human expression…than dance…when you go around the world, every society has a dance as a way to pay tribute to a higher spirit.” The evening concluded with a live auction and dinner. Attended by nearly 200 people, the event raised nearly $150,000 from a combination of ticket sales, silent and live auction proceeds, table sponsorships, raffle ticket sales, and individual and corporate contributions. The Mayor also served as Honorary Chair. Co-Chairs included Lane Alexander, Judith Blank, Elaine Cohen and Arlen Rubin, Philip and Marsha Dowd, Patti Eylar and Charlie Gardner, Diana E. Harris, Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra, Paul Levy and Mia Park, Ted and Susan Oppenheimer, Cari and Barry Shein, Claudette Smith, and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The lead sponsor for CHRP’s 2013 JUBALEE was BMO Harris Bank.

More than 500 supporters turned out for an elegant evening to raise funds and awareness for La Rabida Children’s Hospital at the 27^th annual 2013 Friends of La Rabida Awards Celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel. Honoring community and health care leaders who have shown a commitment to children with special health care needs, the evening was hosted by ABC 7's Ravi Baichwal. Special guests included NBC 5's Marion Brooks, Congresswoman Robin Kelly, State Rep. Kwame Raoul and Ariel Investments founder John W. Rogers. Guests were treated to a surprise video tribute to the Reinsdorf Family, the recipient of the evening's Family Philanthropy Award. Both the Bulls and White Sox have been longtime supporters of La Rabida, financially and by creating exciting and memorable experiences for patients at games. Players have also organized player and team ambassador visits to the hospital. “I’ve been part of this organization for 10 years now, and I see the amount of work you do in the community,” said Chicago Bulls Luol Deng in the video tribute to the family. “You are a great example of trying to make the world a better place.” Deng was joined in the video by several teammates, including Derrick Rose. Members of Gilda’s Club, where Nancy Reinsdorf is a board member, and the Chicago White Sox also sent video congrats. Drs. Cheryl and Eric Whitaker were honored with the Community Leadership Award. The two Chicago-based medical doctors have longtime ties to the University of Chicago. Today, Cheryl Whitaker is president and CEO of Whitaker Kinne Group in Chicago. Eric Whitaker is chairman and CEO of TWG Partners and chairman of NextLevel Health Partners. The Whitakers have both contributed to health care in underserved communities through research, program development and clinical practice. Eric co-founded the nation’s first clinic focused on black men’s health, and led the Urban Health Initiative, University of Chicago Medicine’s effort to improve health and health care access on Chicago’s South Side. Cheryl has worked more than a decade in the field of chronic-condition treatment in minority communities while developing population-specific approaches to self-management. Sharing Notes was honored with the Community Partnership Award. Founded by Allegra Montanari, a 2012 graduate of Roosevelt University’s Chicago Center of Performing Arts, Sharing Notes brings together local area musicians to perform community outreach. She sought out La Rabida a year ago to form a harmonious partnership that brings live performances to hospital patients each month. Floor nurses, child life specialists and families say the musical group inspires children and adults alike with lullabies such as “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” and impromptu tunes like “The LeBron James Song" set to a Brahms lullaby. We are very excited to honor the work done by these individuals, whose support and commitment help the children of La Rabida and so many others,’’ said La Rabida CEO Brenda Wolf. Established in 1896, La Rabida is a pediatric specialty care hospital, treating children with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities, and other lifelong conditions. It provides family centered care to 7,500 children with special health care needs each year at its lakeside location. (www.LaRabida.org ) (Photos by Neil Gates)

The Chicago Tribune has come up with an exciting new section, Blue Sky Innovation, that showcases the who's doing what in Chicago in the tech world and beyond. I loved one of their recent articles about the dynamic Coco Meers and her ingenious idea for making beauty more accessible for women (and men) in this busy world, Pretty Quick. Check it out!

Congrats to dear friend Giana Pisellini on her well deserved honor as "Working Mother of the Year"! She was chosen by her company Unilever, who was ranked in the top 100 companies for working moms, and had this to say about this one-woman dynamo, "Every morning Giana exudes a contagious positivity, even on the days where the night before she was dealing with a sick child, husband or beloved pet and had less than an hour of sleep. Through her passion for our business and love of people, she has brought strong talent into our organization." She was honored at an awards ceremony and will be featured in the December/January issue of Working Mother Magazine. Congrats with love Giana!

Congrats are also in order for AIBI, Apparel Industry Board, Inc., on their new location at 17 E. Pearson. Dubbed the "pop-up store that keeps popping", this new space located in a chic brownstone offers two main selling floors and a lower-level sales area. Marsha Brenner, AIBI executive director, said, "Our store is open every day of the week and features 12 local designers, offering everything from accessories and millinery, to sportswear and evening wear." Have you hugged a designer today? (www.AIBI.com)

Wonder what they're doing on the Left Coast? Well, the Associates for Breast and Prostate Cancer Studies, (ABCs), hosted its 24^th annual, star-studded Talk of the Town black-tie gala at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Saturday, Nov. 23. The gala raised funds for breast and prostate cancer research for John Wayne Cancer Institute (JWCI) at Saint John’s Health Center. Actress Ann-Margret received the Spirit of Entertainment Award, actor Robert Wagner was honored with the Spirit of Hollywood Award and business leaders and community advocates Bill and Roseann Patterson were recipients of the Spirit of Hope Award. ABCs President Gloria Gebbia and First Vice President Sheri Rosenblum co-chaired the event, which featured entertainment from award-winning R&B legends the O’Jays. Actress and comedian Kym Whitley emceed. Since 1981, the family of John Wayne has been committed to pioneering cancer research in memory of their father, who died of cancer. For more than 30 years, the dedicated physicians and scientists at the John Wayne Cancer Institute (JWCI) have made groundbreaking discoveries that have changed the way cancer is detected, diagnosed and treated around the world. JWCI provides hope to cancer patients everywhere. Congrats on a wonderful event for a great cause! ( www.jwci.org). (Photos by Vince Bucci).

Actor Matt Jacobi is one of my favorite reality stars, darling, humble, witty, cute…the whole package! And I'm thrilled to congratulate him on his hot new show on the E! Channel, "The Drama Queen"! He has a starring role with Hollywood Royalty and celeb manager, Marki Costello. The show airs Sunday nights at 10 pm! I'll be watching Matt!

There's a new event space in town that's creating a lot of buzz! Gibson's Restaurant Group has recently introduced The Montgomery Club, 500 W. Superior (formerly Brasserie Ruhlmann). With 8,000 square feet of elegant space, it's sure to be a magnet for the hottest parties in town! For more deets, click here!

eDrop-Off Luxury Consignments will celebrate the opening of its new space on December 2nd in the Gold Coast at 1201 N. Clark St.! With curbside pick-up and drop-off, founder Corri McFadden has made it uber easy to consign! Watch for her next Fashion Vault sale that will include more than 200 items coming December 5-15! Congrats eDrop-Off and Corri!!!!

And last but not least, I want to congratulate Cece & Melinda of Raymi Productions on their 5th anniversary! Their next big Sassy City Chicks event will be on Sunday, December 15 at the Double Tree Mag Mile! Congrats, congrats, congrats to this hard-working, dazzling duo!

I hope you're all getting excited about the holidays! There's no prettier place around this time of the year than Chicago! I love the lights along the Mag Mile (the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Fest was over the top gorgeous! If you missed the broadcast, it will air again Sunday, December 1 from 1-2 pm and Sunday, December 15, from noon-1:00 pm on ABC 7 Chicago.), the Peninsula's beautiful decor and new Terrace skating rink, Tiffin holiday tea at the Langham (and its new pink cabs), Water Tower Place's Reindeer Games (where you can win $25K this holiday season) and the brand new light show at Morton Arboretum. And, as always, Macy's windows make me smile and I always find unique gifts at the Christkindlmarket. I also love knowing Com Ed's Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo are just blocks away. And I adore the decor at the Ralph Lauren Store on Michigan Avenue. The red lamp shades and understated elegance are so inspiring. I can't wait to begin holiday traditions in our new home. I hope you find lots to make you smile about, too, this year!

Much love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Music, Television

November 4, 2013 · 12:42 pm

WINDY CITY CHIC: CHICAGO’S FASHION WEEK!

…PLUS JHIRMACK’S SILVER SISTERS; FRYE’S 150TH; ABOUT FACE THEATRE'S SUPPER CLUB GALA; LINDA AND DESIREE’S PUMP ROOM BASH; BETRAYAL’S CAST PARTY; ART INSTITUTE’S SNAP GALA; RADIO HALL OF FAME; F.A.M.E.; BEST BUDDIES; HALLOWEEN IN CHICAGO; FELIX MAG; AMIE’S BARBIE BASH; BEAUTIFUL BIRTHDAYS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Chicago is pulling ahead of the competition for the most fashionable city! One of the hottest events in town, Fashion Focus: Chicago’s Fashion Week (October 15th through 20th) was a citywide celebration of Chicago’s fashion industry
presented in conjunction with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Mayor’s office. Highlights during the week included a variety of runway shows in
Millennium Park showcasing the latest trends in menswear, emerging and established designers, shopping events and much more. “Fashion Focus is a great way to showcase our great city as well as highlight the achievements of talented, up-and-coming local designers,” said Mayor Emanuel. “I’m proud that Chicago is home to this
flourishing creative industry and look forward to continuing to cultivate its growth.” DCASE Commissioner Michelle T. Boone said, “This year, Fashion Focus highlighted fashion within the creative industries, emerging designers and menswear while still spotlighting Chicago’s top talent. The city has a vibrant fashion community that we want to share with the rest of world
and perhaps further enhance its status within the industry.” I say amen to that! The week kicked off on October 15th with Designer and Muse. Hosted by the City of Chicago and Michigan Avenue Magazine, the opening event partnered with local celebrities in the creative industries (music, culinary, film, theater and dance) with a
designer who created a look for his or her “muse” that was showcased throughout the evening. Pairings included Maria Pinto and Jeanne Gang (architecture), Azeeza Kahn and Alpana Singh (culinary), Shernett Swaby and Mindy Segal (culinary), and Diego Rocha and Naomi Beckwith (visual arts) among others. (The event was by invitation-only.) The following afternoon, designer Julius LaCour featured his
designs for women and men at Maison De LaCour Fashion Presentation. Luxury Management produced this event in the Chase Promenade North tent at Millennium Park that was free to the public. On October 16th, Fashion Focus: Taking it to the Streets could best be described by a quote from fashion icon Coco Chanel, when she
famously said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” This fashion extravaganza welcomed international designers Sarah Stevenson from Toronto Fashion Incubator and Christine Phung from the Atelier de Paris, an incubator program in the City of Light. Chicago
designers included Lagi Nadeau, Shelby Steiner Agnes Hamerlik, Randall Hill, Laura Takataka, Nicole Puszynski, J. Toor and Chicago Playground. On October 17th, the Urban Shapeshifters debuted in Chicago, focusing on menswear and featured local, national and international menswear designers J. Cheikh, Michelle Tan and Jack Cave
from Chicago, Brandon Scott from Los Angeles and Rana Rojo from Miami. In partnership with Chicago’s Gallery Aesthete, international designers participating included Boris Bidjan Saberi
from Barcelona, Ann Demeulemeester from Antwerp and Comme de Garcons from Tokyo and Paris. The Art of Fashion Runway Show returned for its sixth season presented by StyleChicago.com. This popular show featured 10 spring 2014 looks from 10 Chicago-based designers who included
Maria Pinto, Calvin Tran, Eva Pazola, Boris Powell, Lily & Migs, Michelle Tan, Mark Roscoe, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Shalini Sharma and Shernett Swaby. On October 19th, designers, industry professionals and fashion entrepreneurs were invited to network and share ideas during Industry Day at the Chicago Cultural Center. The day featured keynote speakers, panel discussions and workshops that
advised attendees about the newest business strategies and trends in the fashion industry. Northern Grade, a new pop-up market in Millennium Park, brought menswear to the Chase Promenade South tent on the weekend of October 19th and 20th. (Northern
Grade is a mobile menswear market featuring vendors of products manufactured in the United States; items for sale include clothing, footwear, gear, games, paper goods, grooming supplies and much more.) During this weekend, Fashion Focus 2013 presented FashionChicago, the StyleChicago.com designer shopping event in Millennium Park. This shopping
extravaganza featured more than 30 of Chicago’s best apparel, jewelry and accessory designers and included AndreaGems, Anna Hovet, Archer Townsend, Atir Design, Barbara Keisman, Bourdage Pearls, Buckle Up Babe,
Brynn Capella, Calvin Tran, House of Gemmes, Jennifer Reeves Designs, Jules, K. Amato, Lil & Migs, Michelle Tan, Nade Baer, Nomadic Ant, Jewelry, Nora del Busto, Sevigne Atelier, She Beads, Shruti Kirti, Squasht by Les, Susan Elizabeth
Designs, Tongue Tied and 4 Tamara Nicole. Home to more than 400 local designers and 300 independent boutiques, Chicago boasts one of the most creative fashion communities in the country. Since 2006, the City of Chicago’s Fashion Initiative partners with the industry on resources and high-profile events for local designers and independent boutiques to gain visibility, learn about the business of fashion and elevate the industry. For more information on the City of Chicago’s Fashion Initiative and Fashion Focus: Chicago’s Fashion Week, visit www.fashionfocuschicago.org. Love our fashion forward city!

There is a movement afoot and it’s not a political one, though it inspires passion in those involved. As we baby boomers age, there is a dilemma among many women (and men) who are
afraid to embrace the natural aging process: The subject is whether or not to dye your hair. Author Diana Jewell wrote an interesting book on this topic titled, “Going Gray and Looking Great” and she also inspired
women from across the globe to come together as Jhirmack Silver Sisters to celebrate their commonality: keeping, enjoying and embracing their natural (silver) hair color. Chapters have formed
across the country – there are even some that reach as far away as New Zealand and Chile! – so obviously she’s on to something. I was thrilled when she came to Chicago for the first time to celebrate with like-minded women here. The two-day weekend began with a reception at Cite, a restaurant located 70 stories atop Lake Point
Tower. Overlooking breathtaking views of Chicago, the women snapped pics, shared secrets and enjoyed the camaraderie that comes naturally to this group of women who are aging gracefully, fearlessly and
beautifully. The following day began with a luncheon at the Marriott Courtyard Michigan Avenue. Glam L.A. stylist Arden Reece produced a seriously chic fashion show with day and evening looks from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue that wowed the crowd.
Makeup artist extraordinaire Marcus Geeter shared cosmetics tips that included 1) Use a pore minimizer before applying makeup (he liked The POREfessional by Benefit Cosmetics); 2) Use finely milled HD powders
(he likes one from ITCosmetics.com); 3) Use neutral or earth-tone eye shadows; 4) Use black mascara, a brush-on brow (and a gel fiber brow adds fullness); and 5) Use a highlighter on your cheeks, center of
forehead and chin (he likes Watt’s Up by Benefit Cosmetics). He also recommended Candid Candace coral lipstick by Camp Cosmetics…wink! 🙂 “The Sultan of Silver” George Bruno followed with chic hair demos showing the versatility of gray hair. I was proud to deliver the keynote speech. (Special thanks to Donna
LaPietra for my cool video, too)! A packed goody bag included awesome Jhirmack products (the event’s presenting sponsor) created especially for Silver Sisters!
(Thanks so much, Peter LaFleche!!!) After the festivities at the Marriott, we all boarded trolleys to Millennium Park where we performed the famous “Silver Sister Strut” while the television cameras rolled and photographers snapped. I’m proud to be a Silver Sister and can’t wait till they return to the Windy City! (Great pics by Amie Hana). (For more info about the Silver Sisters, visit their Facebook page here!)

Do you remember Frye boots? Back in the ‘70s, if you didn’t have a pair of these boots, you had no “cool.” Well, recently, The Frye Company – America’s oldest operating footwear
company – celebrated its 150th (WOW!) anniversary with a private party to celebrate the opening of its new Chicago location. The store featured a wide range of footwear and accessories, including the company’s anniversary capsule collection
of classic styles with details like stars and stripes and stone-washed finishes. The brand’s creative director Michael Petry was in attendance to mix and mingle with more than 300 fans. Guests sporting their Frye footwear included Amelia Eaton, Christopher Free, Jessica Moazami and Cait Weingartner. The playlist for the evening was provided by
DJ Matt Roan and also featured a live set by up-and-coming band Blondfire, all decked in Frye footwear. Their history and heritage is told in every stitch of every shoe they’ve made over the last 150 years, across cultural shifts and changes in
fashion for generation upon generation. On March 10, 1863, John A. Frye opened the doors of a small shop on Elm Street in Marlboro, Mass. This is where generations of Frye men would dedicate themselves to the art and craft of shoemaking, creating new patterns, discovering new materials and even inventing shoe-making
machinery. Now, Frye boots are accessorized and envied on city streets, worked and roughed up on country roads and chosen above all others for their inimitable style and uncompromising quality. I’m still a fan!

More than 100 guests traveled back to the exclusive underground society of the “Roaring Twenties” for About Face Theatre’s Black and Tan Supper Club on October 11th at the luxurious Stan Mansion, located at 2408 N.
Kedzie Ave. The “secret venue” was revealed to guests just one week prior to the event, creating a magical and mysterious throwback to Chicago’s “black and tan” nightclubs of the 1920’s. The swanky
supper club soiree raised nearly $40,000 for About Face Theatre programming, including its groundbreaking and acclaimed Youth Theatre, which creates a safe space for LGBTQA youth to tell their stories and create community. Guests
decked out in formal and festive attire sipped classic cocktails and enjoyed fine dining by J&L Catering. The evening’s hosts, AFT artistic associate Paul Oakley Stovall and New York performer Brad Simmons, entertained with 1920s jazz
standards including “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore”, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” and “Pennies From Heaven”. The duo were joined by special guest performers Meghan Murphy and fellow AFT artistic associates Scott
Bradley, John Francisco and Benjamin Sprunger; the Black and Tan Supper Club was co-chaired by Jim Andrews and Jason Held. About Face Theatre is one of Chicago’s most acclaimed theatre companies and is a national leader in the
development of new work exploring gender and sexual identity. Since its founding by Kyle Hall and Eric Rosen in 1995, the company has debuted more than 48 world premieres by writers and directors who have been recognized with several
Tony Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, The MacArthur Fellowship and dozens of Joseph Jefferson Awards. The About Face Youth Theatre (AFYT) was created in 1998 as a safe
space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning and allied young people to become activists and theatre-makers. Youth participants engage in a two-year
process of sharing stories, conducting interviews, writing a script and developing performances to create a full-length production that is produced in About Face Theatre’s mainstage season. (Photos by Timmy Samuel.)

Linda and Desiree threw a party and EVERYONE came! On October 30th, the Pump Room Chicago was filled to bursting with excited chatter and fashionable ladies for an exclusive women’s only event to
celebrate “Life, Love & Beauty”. The party was hosted by Linda Johnson Rice (chairman of Johnson Publishing), Desiree Rogers (CEO of Johnson Publishing), Mitzi Miller (editor-in-chief of Jet Magazine) and Fashion Fair Cosmetics. The evening also premiered a short film, “Say Yes” by Sundance Award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, which
celebrates women of color and encourages them to embrace their individual beauty and embrace what it means to “say yes” to life’s possibilities. Inspired by Fashion Fair, the film is described as “highlighting beautiful women of all hues
and ages who explore the power of the affirmative.” I invited my dear friend Paul Iacono, who is one good sport: I didn’t realize it was women-only until we arrived! LOL but luckily, I convinced him to stay and
he turned out to be a highlight for a lot of the ladies as they snapped pics with him throughout the evening. During the cocktail party, guests had the opportunity to sample Fashion Fair products, receive personal makeovers
by talented make-up artists, listen to music by glam celebrity DJ Kiss and mix and mingle with some of the most beautiful, diverse and accomplished women of Chicago. Special guests included actress Drew Sidora, actress/singer/songwriter Michelle Williams and ever popular female
impersonator Chilli Pepper. During the course of the evening, a dramatic tribute sculptural portrait, commissioned by fashion designer Barbara Bates, was presented to Linda. Created by artist Debra Hand, the piece represented Mrs. Eunice Johnson on her historic journey to change fashion history. Debra explained that Mrs. Johnson took Linda along with her on buying trips to Europe when she visited the top designers’
showrooms. The Eiffel Tower in the piece represents those trips and Mrs. Johnson’s influence on the international fashion industry. In the artwork, a young Linda stands atop a hat box marked with the initials “FF” which
represents the Fashion Fair legacy Mrs. Johnson built and the foundation upon which Linda now stands as she continues the work started by her mother. Photos include Mrs. Johnson sitting in the front row of a European fashion show, working with models, speaking with designers such as Yves St. Laurent, Fashion Fair
Cosmetics, and Linda with her mother and quotes from both. There are also international postage stamps denoting her travels as well as one that bears the photo of Linda’s father, John H. Johnson. The title of the piece is “Family Recipes” and it was AWE-INSPIRING! It was a very touching moment when it was unveiled for Linda. When Paul and I left, the place
was still jumping and I saw lots of ladies doing the “wobble” to a hot DJ Kiss mix. (I wish I could learn this darn dance…it looked so cool!) Anyway, congrats Linda on an amazing life…can’t wait to see where you take us next! (For Jet Magazine info, click here and for Fashion Fair product info, click here!)

All the stars aligned at the Dana Hotel in River North recently for a cast party for “Betrayal”, the hot new series that recently debuted on ABC-7. Guests joined
hosts from “Windy City Live” to mix and mingle with cast members who included James Cromwell, Henry Thomas, Stuart Townsend and Hannah Ware. Set and filmed in Chicago and billed as part thriller/part romance, the series centers around photographer
Sara Hanley (played by Hannah Ware) who is married to prosecutor Drew Stafford (played by Chris J. Johnson). A chance meeting between Hannah and Jack McAllister
(played by Stuart Townsend) leads to an instant attraction that becomes complicated and dangerous. The show also features Wendy Moniz, Elizabeth McLaughlin and Braeden Lemasters. (To see ALL of the fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please visit my Chicago Now blog here!)

The Art Institute of Chicago’s Department of Photography hosted Snap: The 5th Photography Benefit Gala on October 19th in the museum’s Modern Wing. This year’s event celebrated the museum’s encyclopedic
permanent collection of photography with proceeds contributing to the Photography Gala Fund, the largest single source of acquisitions support for photography at the Art
Institute. This fund has helped make possible landmark purchases of work by André Kertész, Richard Misrach, Daido Moriyama and Ed Ruscha, among others. The event was
co-chaired by Meredith Bluhm Wolf and Dia S. Weil. The gala began in the Art Institute’s fine-dining restaurant Terzo Piano with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a stunning nighttime view of Chicago’s skyline. Popular at previous Snap galas, guests once again had the opportunity to get their photo snapped in classic photo booths and
sets depicting famous images. A seated dinner of locally grown, seasonal fare followed in the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court with an innovative setting designed by INDO, a Chicago-based design and fabrications firm
specializing in site-specific installations created with recycled and repurposed materials. Following dinner, a live auction of photography sessions by internationally renowned photographers including Moyra Davey, Abelardo
Morell, Jason Salavon, Tony Tasset and James Welling was conducted by Alexander Gilkes of Phillips. The photography collection began in 1949 with the gift of nearly 250 photographs by Alfred Stieglitz and his circle. The Stieglitz Collection, along with the Julien Levy Collection of surrealist and
avant-garde works, gave the museum core strength in early 20th-century photography from the United States and Europe. With approximately 22,000 objects, the present collection is encyclopedic in scope. (To learn more, click here.)

For more than 90 years, radio has educated, entertained and inspired us. To honor this important medium, the Museum of Broadcast Communications is hosting the 2013 National Radio Hall Fame Gala on November 9th at the
museum (located at 360 N. State St.) beginning at 6 p.m. Hosted by broadcast icon Larry King with entertainment by country star Reba McIntire, the 2013 class of inductees range from a dynamic and trend setting team that changed Chicago’s radio landscape to
one of the most respected play-by-play voices in baseball. Radio’s daring duo Steve Dahl and Garry Meier have been honored with an award but the jury is still out whether or not Dahl will attend. Charley Steiner, a current member of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ play-by-play team, is also an honoree. For tickets ($350 and up), call 312.245.8200.

Embrace your incomparable, unique style sense and join event producer/photographer Amie Hana and restaurateur Vincent Tan for “Barbie
in Chicago” on November 9th at Block 37 for an unforgettable evening of fun, great food, cocktails, fashion show, live entertainment and more! Emcees are Jillian Conley (author of “Dating Chase Walker”) and Jeff Conway (former producer for NBC5’s “24/7 Chicago”). There will be musical performances by De’Borah from
“The Voice” and international performing artist Divalicious Jovie Calma. The Benjamin Cottrell-produced fashion show will feature designs by Eileen Fisher, Borris Powell and Mark Roscoe Designs. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dress For Success, which provides clothing for job interviews to low-income women. For tickets and more info, click here.

Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.) will present its second fashion show – An Evening of Glamour – on November 20th beginning at 7 p.m. at Studio 3G, located at 1017 W. Washington. Guests will enjoy a champagne reception with hors d’oeuvres and Lily’s Talent Agency models. Hosted by B96’s Showbiz Shelly, the event will feature evening wear by Anna Fong, Lauren Lein, Nathalie Loma and Victor Miller. Proceeds will benefit young Chicagoland performing artists with financial aid and mentorship. For tickets and more info, click here or contact tommy@famechicago.com.

The Best Buddies Illinois Gala will take place on November 22nd at the Four Seasons Hotel. My friend Simona Garcia described the good work that they do: “I joined the Best Buddies board earlier this year and have been impressed with everything they do in terms of creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships and offering integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It was founded in
1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver. In our state, Best Buddies serves about 6,000 students in 84 middle schools, high schools and colleges and the adult programs serve about 500 individuals annually.” Great cause Simona and I hope everyone will join you at the gala! For more info, visit www.bestbuddiesillinois.org.

HUGE congrats are in order for Tails in the City on its largest Halloween Pet Parade to date! This year, more than 250 dogs participated in this furry fun that also raised money for PAWS Chicago! Congrats to Bruce Haas and Philip Emigh on another great event – can’t wait to see what you have in store for next year!

And speaking of this spooky holiday, Boystown’s legendary Halloween Parade on North Halsted went under the big top this year for a twisted take on
the circus theme. Now in its 17th year, this beloved annual event kicked off at 8 p.m. on Halloween with spectators and costumed revelers lining North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison. The parade route was filled
with circus sideshows ranging from acrobats to aerialists and fire-eaters to freaks. New this year was the crowning of costume contest winners before the parade start. Winners in each of the five categories (drag, group, original, scariest and pet) were then invited to ride a float through the parade route. They also
received prize packages valued at more than $2,000 that included gift certificates to local businesses and overnight getaways. The Halsted Halloween Parade is
sponsored by the Northalsted Business Alliance and draws thousands of participants and spectators to the Lakeview neighborhood. (Thanks to Bill Pritchard of ChicagoPride.com for this info with photos by Anthony Meade. This website is THE go-to-place for all LGTB news and events! To see more of these creative costumes, click here!)

Special thanks to Felix Magazine and Jessica George for choosing me for a Style Icon feature! I’m thrilled and grateful! I shot at the historic Glessner House Museum with talented L.A. lensman Isaac Alvarez, who’s as funny as he is cool.

Birthday shout-outs to dear friends Marissa Rudman, Michaela Parrillo and Jan Flanagan! Marissa celebrated her big 5-0 in grand style at Studio Paris and Michaela and Jan partied the night
away with friends at Tavern on Rush. Three elegant women who are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside…happy birthday to ALL!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition! Please send any news my way and I’ll try to add it next time. Also, if you would like to advertise on Candid Candace or Watch312.com, please let me know! 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Want a perfect pet portrait or, for that matter, a personal one? Well, look no further than photographer Paul Sherman! This wonderful artist has been in the business for years and is TERRIFIC! I’ve shot with him many times (he did my last cover for TCW Mag!) and I highly recommend him. For more info, call (773) 886-9501. Here’s lookin’ at you, kid!

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

October 23, 2013 · 10:13 am

THE CHICAGO HUMANITIES FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

…PLUS JOFFREY’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS; COSTUME COUNCIL’S DECADES LUNCHEON; JACK AND THE GREEN COAT GALA; A NEW ONLINE ART RESOURCE; PAUL STUART'S RAT PACK; PATRICK SHARP SUITS UP FOR ZEGNA; JANE MONZURES’ LIVE.LOVE.LIFE; JUBALEE!; URBAN LEAGUE’S FELLOWSHIP DINNER; SUSAN G. KOMEN PAINTS IT PINK; DIFFA’S DINING BY DESIGN AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Chicago Humanities Festival (CHF) held its annual Gala Benefit on October 2nd at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago with more than 350 of Chicago’s civic, corporate and cultural leaders in attendance. In keeping with the theme “ANIMAL: What Makes Us Human”, the ballroom was transformed into an animal-
embellished sanctuary. Tables featured animal print runners and floral arrangements adorned with peacock and pheasant feathers, all created by Flower Firm. Attendees enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner provided by the Four Seasons, which
included a dessert sampling with edible chocolate tigers and giraffes in homage to the theme. After dinner, the Chicago Humanities Festival recognized Robert R. McCormick Foundation for its strong commitment to the humanities and its long-standing partnership
with CHF. Current CHF Board Chair Bill Fraumann presented the honor to President and Chief Executive Officer David D. Hiller. “We were delighted to be part of that very special evening,” said David D. Hiller. “We have had a long and fruitful partnership, supporting educational efforts and
celebrating those things that, in the words of this year’s festival, make us human and humane.” Following the first award presentation, CHF saluted three key academic partners: Northwestern University, the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois, who
were honored as vital partners in CHF’s mission to bring renowned pioneers and thinkers in literature, history, science, politics, art, and music to the festival. Audience members enjoyed a video that featured interviews from key leaders at each of the universities, as well as CHF
Executive Director Phillip Bahar and Artistic Director Matti Bunzl, and highlighted the respective campuses. President Morton Schapiro (Northwestern University), President Robert J. Zimmer (University of Chicago) and President Robert A. Easter (University
of Illinois) received the award from Bill Fraumann on behalf of their respective universities. “To have the three university presidents together at one time with David Hiller from the McCormick Foundation marked an extraordinary moment in the Chicago Humanities Festival’s 24 year history,” said CHF Artistic Director Matti Bunzl. “We were honored to have the
opportunity to give our collective thanks to these longstanding partners.” Attendees were then treated to a video about Stages, Sights and Sounds, which documented the annual international theater festival for students, families, and theatergoers of any age. The video featured interviews with artists, cultural leaders and students who attended performances
this past May. Following the video, three teachers from Schubert Elementary spoke about their personal experience with the Stages, Sights and Sounds program and the positive impact it has had on their students. “It has been said that education is not about filling a pail, it’s about lighting the fire,” said Juana Miranda, a third grade bilingual
teacher from Schubert. “Thank you for providing my students with the opportunity to experience the arts, and for striking the match. Closing out the night, CHF Gala Benefit co-chair Allegra Biery introduced the singers from
the Ryan Opera Center, who performed several musical theater and operatic songs under the direction of Andreas Mitisek, General Director of Chicago Opera Theater. The Gala Benefit was co-chaired by Allegra Biery (senior vice president of Northern Trust) and R. Scott Falk (partner at Kirkland & Ellis). The evening raised more than $640,000 to advance CHF’s mission to create opportunities for
people of all ages to support, enjoy and explore the humanities. Specifically, more than $120,000 was raised during the paddle raise, lead by CHF board member Cheryl Harris and auctioneer extraordinaire Greg Dellinger, which will support CHF’s First Time for a Lifetime (TM) education and outreach initiatives, which enhance student attendance, teacher development and education resources. The Chicago Humanities Festival began in 1989 as a
dream shared by a determined group of Chicago’s cultural leaders eager to extend the riches of the humanities to everyone. Since that first year, some of the world’s most exciting thinkers, artists and performers have come to Chicago each fall for a festival that celebrates ideas in the context of civic life. (For more info, click here.)

The Joffrey Ballet’s 8th Annual Couture & Cocktails was held recently at Park West with nearly 300 enthusiastic supporters. Co-chaired by Sonya Jackson and Kathleen Henson, this glamorous fall
fashion event featured a coalition of couture and dance with a dramatic runway show that presented designer selections from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, the 40-minute show featured more than 40 looks with mini-performances interspersed by Joffrey Academy of Dance students.
For the first time in the event’s history, the breathtaking fashions were presented through sophisticated dance interpretations of the 2013 season including the hit La Bayadere (now at the Auditorium Theatre thru 10/27), Episode 31, Romeo
and Juliet, Russian Masters and The Nutcracker. The dancers sparkled on the runway wearing dramatic costumes from these productions and Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels surprised and wowed the crowd with his
own runway walk wearing a Tom Ford tuxedo for the finale. Prior to the show, new executive director Greg Cameron and artistic director Ashley Wheater joined Jackson and Henson onstage to share heartfelt
remarks about the mission of the Joffrey and its work throughout the country. And, with a nod to televised fashion events and awards shows, glam co-hosts Sonya and Kathleen were spotted throughout the evening in three wardrobe changes modeling various designers
from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Neiman’s Wendy Krimins and Tina Koegel were in attendance and very thrilled with the night’s action! Former C & C featured designer Pamella Roland added couture power flying in several evening gowns for the event. A digital live
auction that included couture and cocktail themed packages rounded out the evening before guests took to the dance floor with the Joffrey dancers. The event raised nearly $200K to advance the mission and support Joffrey programming in Chicago and beyond. For more info on the Joffrey and performance schedules, visit www.Joffrey.org. (To view ALL pics, please click here!)

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted a group of 35 members and their guests at the Four Seasons Chicago on October 11th for a luncheon and presentation by vintage guru Cameron Silver and author
of the recently released fashion history book “Decades: A Century of Fashion”. After their meal, guests enjoyed an exclusive preview of the Decades Trunk Show at space519. Decades is the
vintage and haute consignment retailer in Los Angeles, acclaimed for its collection of designer clothing and accessories dating from the 1920’s to today. Known for their discerning eye, co-owners Silver and Christos Garkinos and their teams oversee the acquisition of an edited selection of authentic vintage treasures and future
collectibles. Their clientele in Los Angeles includes celebrities such as Julianne Moore, Selma Blair and Charlize Theron (among many others) who not only shop their collections but also sell to the store. Proceeds from the event benefitted the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. (Photos by Robert Kusel.)

The world’s greatest golf champion Jack Nicklaus will headline the Western Golf Association’s third annual Green Coat Gala to benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation on November 6th at The Peninsula
Chicago, located at 108 E. Superior St. The winner of 18 major championships, two Western Open titles and the Western Amateur Championship, Nicklaus will take the stage after dinner and chat with longtime friend, two-time U.S. Open
champion and ESPN lead golf analyst Andy North. This black-tie event is expected to raise more than $600,000 to help fund college scholarships for deserving golf caddies. Volunteer event chairs are Sharyl and Mike Mackey. The evening also will feature current University of Illinois Evans Scholar Mark Abtahi, who will share his personal experience of how the Evans
Scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity for young golf caddies. The Evans Scholars Program is one of golf’s favorite charities and is country’s largest privately sponsored scholarship program providing full tuition and housing. For more information, visit www.wgaesf.org.

“Art is a reflection of personality and therefore it should be the center of attention in any room,” said designer and art curator Irena Feldman, who recently launched a unique online service that is designed to make art more accessible. DecArte is an online art database that allows people the option to rent artwork before buying.
With years of experience in the interior design world, Irina felt like this was a natural progression for her business. “The rental option allows people to start their art journey without risk, all the while from the comfort of their own home,” said Feldman. She even offers an art personality quiz to help you find the piece that's right for you from a worldwide selection of artists. Fear no art and click here for more info!

More than 150 guests recently celebrated the Rat Pack in conjunction with luxury men’s clothier Paul Stuart and Esquire magazine. The event commemorated a special in-store exhibit from Reel Art Press, honoring the
legendary clique that defined life in the fast lane throughout the late fifties and early sixties. The Gold Coast location showcased an exhibit of original, limited-edition, signed images created by a select group of photogs including Sid Avery
and Bob Willoughby who captured the Rat Pack in their heyday. In conjunction with the event, Paul Stuart is also offering the collectable photographic book titled “The Rat Pack” (referred to by the L.A. Times as ‘the
Rolls Royce of Sinatra memorabilia’). This deluxe master edition is a limited, numbered edition of 2,250 published by Reel Art Press retails for $950. Guests
enjoyed signature Rat Pack-era drinks such as Manhattans, martinis and Prosecco, as well as a selection of hors d’oeuvres that included New York strip medallions topped with artichoke and black truffle mouse, lobster thermidor,
and (of course!) mini cherry pies. The sounds of Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darin filled the boutique, thanks to Myles Hayes and his trio. Notable attendees included Stanley Wozniak, Jessica Moazami, Paul
Arnow of Black Label, Herb Stokes of The Affluence Group, Alayna Crenshaw of Pomellato, Stephanie Degen, Hugh Mallaney of Illinois Mechanical Sales, stylist Naima Naito, and Joseph Baldassare & Tony Nourmand of Reel Art Press.

Dressed in Ermenegildo Zegna Couture, Stanley Cup Champion and Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp hosted a private event to celebrate the store’s new design on the
Mag Mile with nearly 200 friends and fans. Clad in Zegna were DJ Michaelangelo L’Acqua, Saam Hagshenas and Jonathan Marks of the local band Hey Champ. DJ Michaelangelo provided the lively beats throughout the store and the Hey Champ duo performed a live set for the well-dressed crowd. Created by Zegna’s in-house
architects, the Chicago store design is based on the creative concept developed by architect Peter Martino for the Zegna global store in Milan. With the addition of a second level, the store now covers over 4,300 square
feet of space. Seen on the scene were Hawks players Brandon Bollig and Michael Kostka, Jerry Azumah, Eric Ferguson, Jon Harris, Stefan Holt, Chef Bill Kim, Saira Cooper, "Check Please!"Catherine De Orio and Alicia Roman. (Photos by Daniel Boczarski and Barry Breicheisen courtesy of Zegna).

Join WGN “Living Healthy Chicago” host Jane Monzures for Live, Love, Life on November 2nd at the Museum of Broadcast Communications to benefit the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Department of Neurology and the Feinberg School of Medicine for research of rare degenerative brain diseases. Jane recently lost her beloved mom, Barbara, to this disease and she hopes you'll join her for this event to celebrate her life and support a great cause! Click here for tickets ($125) or to make a donation.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel will receive this year’s JUBA! award from the Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), the world’s first year-round presenter of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts, on October 28th on the Jay Pritzker Pavilion Stage in Millennium Park. CHRP’s annual gala, JUBALEE! supports performance, education and
community programs that reach more than 20,000 people every year. This special evening will be hosted by broadcast legend and civic leader Bill Kurtis. Past JUBA! Award honorees included Savion Glover, Gregory Hines, Bill Irwin, former Mayor Rich Daley, Maggie Daley, Ted and Susan Oppenheimer, Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra. The evening will include performances by CHRP’s resident ensemble BAM!, the Greg Spero Trio, youth from the Bronzeville Lighthouse Charter School and other special guests. For tickets to JUBALEE ($150, $250 and $500), contact Catherine Painter at CPainter@chicagotap.org or 312-542-2477 ext. 203, or visit chicagotap.org.

Philanthropists Ann Lurie (president of Lurie Holdings and of the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Foundation) and Dolores Kohl (president and CEO of the Dolores Kohl Children’s Museum) will be honored at UNICEF’s 3rd annual Chicago Humanitarian Awards Luncheon on October 25th at the
Ritz-Carlton. Co-chaired by Susan Schmitt and Susan Sholl, the luncheon will also showcase The Eliminate Project, UNICEF’s global campaign to rid the world of maternal and neonatal tetanus, a deadly disease that steals the lives of nearly 60K newborns and a significant number of women each year in 26 countries. For tickets ($65) and more info, click here.

Susan G. Komen recognized Chicago’s fight against breast cancer on October 16th by honoring Dr. Funmi Olopade at a reception with some of Chicago’s top business leaders. The evening kicked off with a lighting of the LaSalle Street Bridge in the color pink to
mark October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Olopade is an international leader in cancer genetics, seeking personalized treatments for the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. Much of her work is focused on women in
Chicago, where discrepancies in breast cancer mortality rates between African American women and white women are among the highest in the country. “African American women in Chicago are more than twice as likely to die of breast cancer compared to
white women,” said Nancy G. Brinker, founder and chair of global strategy for Komen. “This is stunning. And it is a clear sign that we have work to do in ensuring that every woman has access to education, screening and treatment.” To date, Susan G. Komen has invested more than $17 million
dollars into research in Illinois through 74 different grants. And since 1997, the Chicagoland affiliate has granted more than $13.5 million dollars toward community-based efforts
here in Chicago. The evening’s event was graciously underwritten by Howard Bernick and raised $215,000 that will go directly towards breast cancer research and Chicago community initiatives. Guests in attendance to mark the second annual bridge lighting included co-chairs Janet and Craig Duchossois, Lisa and Jeff Aronin and Catherine Perez; guests Ann
and John Barney, Eve and Rich Biller, Nancy Brinker, Dennis Carlin, Nora Daley and Sean Conroy, Bonnie Gordon, Andrea Herenton, Leslie Hindman, Jeff Jacobs, Carol and Larry Levy, Wade Miquelon, Harriette and Ted Perlman, Michael Perlow, John and Colette Rau, Stephen Schwartz, Robin Loewenberg and Mark Tebbe and Beth and Bruce White. (For info about this much-needed organization, please click here.)

Don’t miss the 52nd annual Golden Fellowship dinner, “The Power of Opportunity: Moving Chicago Forward”, presented by the Chicago Urban League on November 9th at the Hilton Chicago. The event, co-chaired by E. Scott Santi and Gregory Wasson, will be hosted by beloved comedian Damon Williams and feature the O’Jays! Honorees for 2014 are Reverend Jesse Jackson and Louis Gossett, Jr. For tickets, ($600) and more info, click here.

The Society of Architectural Historians will present awards for excellence at its upcoming gala on November 9th at The Casino (195 E. Delaware Place). The theme of the gala, “A Century of Progress: 1913-2013” recognizes the changes in the urban landscape over the past 100 years and will honor Adrian Smith & Gordon Gill Architecture, Judith Paine McBrien (The Archimedia Workshop), Blair Kamin (Chicago Tribune’s Pulitzer Prize-winning architecture critic) along with Zoe Ryan, Alison Fisher and Karen Kice of the Department of Architecture and Design at the Art Institute of Chicago. For tickets ($150) and more info, click here.

The International Beethoven Project (IBP) welcomed over 250 guests including Honorary Chairman Richard H. Driehaus and Inese Driehaus, for its Masquerade of LOVE, the opening night ball for Beethoven Festival:
LOVE 2013. Held at the Merit School of Music on September 7th, the event benefitted IBP, a Chicago-based non-profit dedicated to the promotion of revolutionary culture, inspired by the music and life of Ludwig van
Beethoven. IBP Founder, President and Artistic Director George Lepauw announced at the Masquerade that the organization met The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation’s previously announced $100,000 challenge grant, resulting in a
total of more than $200,000 for the organization and its ambitious Beethoven Festival programming. This is the largest matching grant
the Driehaus Foundation has ever made to a performing arts organization. The 2013 Benefit Chairs were Erika R. Knierim and Christine Rosso. Additional distinguished guests included Merit School of Music President Duffie Adelson; architect Lucien Lagrange; Alliance Française de
Chicago Board President Hervé de la Vauvre; Abe and Angela Thompson; Chicago Intercollegiate Council CEO and Chairman Conrad Miczko; Jim and Joan Shapiro; and gallerists Sven Asmus and Arica Hilton. The IBP’s mission is accomplished through the presentation of an
annual Beethoven Festival, concerts, mixed media exhibits, lectures, the production of recordings and films, the commissioning of new music and art, publications and educational outreach in schools and universities, as well as in nontraditional venues. The
unconventional and multidisciplinary Beethoven Festival was inspired by concert pianist and Founding Artistic Director George Lepauw’s cultural explorations of Paris, London, Beijing and New York. (For more info, click here.) (Photos by Charles Osgood and Paul Crisanti.)

Delectable dishes, daring designs and magnificent tablescapes! DIFFA/Chicago’s 2013 DINING BY DESIGN titled “Beauty and the Feast” is set to take “wow” to the next level from November 7th through 9th. Guests will enjoy masterpieces in richly designed tablescapes by top designers and delicious tastings by renowned local chefs from Henri, Embeya, Piccolo Sogno and more at the Merchandise Mart, 8th Floor. During this time, DIFFA/Chicago will offer the public two distinct ways in which to enjoy this popular event beginning with a public viewing, EYE CANDY on November 8th (tickets are $10), followed by POP UP, Table Hop & Taste on November 8th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Tickets start at $40.) For tickets and more info, call 312.644.6412.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition of Candid Candace! And if you missed my Sunday Chicago Tribune column, click here for fab photos from the Art Institute of Chicago’s Auxiliary Board Masquerade Ball co-chaired
by Toni Canada, Roxy Goebel, Jade Newburn, Matt Pettinelli and Steve Somogyi! Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ Corbin Horn was a stand-out with his face paint inspired by surrealist artist Rene Magritte!

I also hope you have a very happy Halloween! We can’t WAIT to spend time back in Old Town with friends Lucy, Steve and Isabel Weiss at their “spooktacular” home on Menomonee on All Hallows’ Eve! BOO!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here’s another great event for Halloween hosted by The Cure It Foundation’s Junior Board on October 26th! Monster Masque will be held at the St. Germaine School (located at 9734 S. Kolin Ave. in Oak Lawn) and will feature great costumes, music, haunted house, raffle and fab food. The party is fun for the whole family and will support kids touched by childhood cancer.

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October 15, 2013 · 8:43 am

PRIMO CLASSICO BR’ITALIA’S FAST CARS AND KIND STARS

…PLUS AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS GALA; THE LANGHAM CHICAGO’S GRAND OPENING; DANCING WITH THE GIORDANO STARS; HALLOWEEN PARTY PICKS; A BIG NIGHT FOR ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL; WCIU SHOWS CAMP LOVE; CIARA PARTY AT LUMEN; ELDA’S NEW SPOT; AKIRA’S SUPERSONIC BOOM; NINA AND BOB’S 12TH; NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

I knew this wasn’t going to be easy but I had no idea how difficult moving could be. Sadly, now I know and I feel like it’s taken years off our lives. We downsized to a beautiful condo – albeit one smaller than our former home – so I expected to be surrounded by packing boxes for a while but I didn’t realize that I wasn’t going to be able to find anything even with perfectly labeled boxes. It took me three days to find my underwear (I know, too much info, but it’s true) and I still can’t find Chuck’s files nor can I locate our CDs. A little Cole Porter with wine right now would certainly do us a lot of good! Thank goodness for my stepson, Charley Jordan, or else we would still be breaking down boxes for recycling! Paul Gonzalez, who is a dear friend, was our designer for our house on Menomonee and he is lending his magic here at our new place…and it’s actually beginning to look like a smaller (more manageable) version of our old house. Most of my treasured antiques and artwork look even better here than they did before. Paul and I find ourselves continually saying, “Where was that? I don’t remember seeing this before”, etc. Chuck said it’s like Christmas all over again for me opening boxes with new/old treasures and, in a way, he’s right. We’re still overwhelmed but the pros far out way the cons as we enjoy this elegant building with friendly neighbors, a beautiful patio (which the dogs LOVE), a heated garage, doormen and so much more. The park across the street is an added bonus and it makes me feel like I’m living on the edge of Central Park. It’s a perfect location on a charming street and we’re anxious to make new friends in this wonderful part of Chicago. And even though I’m venting right now, once I find that underwear box, I’ll be golden.

The sky was Windex blue and the temperature was perfect for the annual Primo Classico, this year themed Br’Italia, to celebrate all things British and Italian at Lake Forest Sports Cars on September 22nd. More than 300 people turned out for this beloved event chaired by noted philanthropists Diane and Quinton Primo. The event benefitted the Primo Center which was founded in 1985 by Quinton’s father and he and Diane are continuing the tradition in style raising funds for this program dedicated to providing interim and supportive housing for homeless women and children and to ending the cycle of poverty. The celebration actually began the night before at the Primo’s elegant home in Lake Forest. They hosted an intimate evening to thank the sponsors and supporters of the event. Diane greeted guests as they arrived and master mixologist Benjamin Newby was stationed by the door entrancing guests with his “smoke under glass” Manhattan presentations before dinner and the evening’s entertainment began. Grammy Award-winning entertainer Arturo Sandoval played the piano and sang to a rapt audience in the drawing room before a delicious dinner was served. Fabulous Chef Charles Webb created a menu that was inspired by his recent travels to Italy, Spain and Sicily the week before. It included short ribs with truffle potatoes, Maine lobster with organic tomatoes and basil, homemade gnocchi and Australian rack of lamb with blueberry balsamic reduction among other delicacies. Dessert highlights included orange scented trifles with strawberry and blueberry mousse, flourless chocolate bites with pistachio cream and fresh berries. Diane and Quintin graciously thanked everyone for coming and talked about the center and how it benefits so many. For the main event on Sunday, guests could pose by a mini Trevi Fountain or be snapped on the paparazzi- packed red carpet. Lake Forest Sports Cars owner Rick Mancuso donated his gorgeous showroom for the event and Carla Giordano of the Lamborghini Club of Chicago did a great job assembling vintage and one-of-a-kind cars for attendees to ooh and ahhh over. (A $2 million Maserati garnered LOTS of attention!) Each food station was tastier than the last and included offerings from Bella Via Ristorante, Pelago, Prosecco, The Florentine, Tesori, Tocco, Travelle, Volare Ristorante and Blue Plate Catering to name a few. Maurice Hennessy – an eighth-generation member of the famed Cognac house – was on hand as a sponsor and also donated a one-of-a-kind trip to his family’s estate in France. Actress/director Phylicia Rashad snapped this package up along with another making her the perfect choice as the evening’s honoree. G-Man Greg Dellinger served as auctioneer for the afternoon and I think he’s the best in the business. Not only does he raise big money for the charity but he’s also entertainment in and of himself flying around the room encouraging bidders to go higher. He really puts his heart and soul into his work and it always brings big rewards dollar-wise. Auction highlights included an exotic trip to Muscat, Oman courtesy of Qatar Airways that included two business-class tickets and a five-night stay in a suite at the Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace. Susan Gohl, who is always so charitable, donated her elegant 107-foot yacht, the Susanna Bella, for a cocktail cruise with eight friends in Naples, Florida. Dana Hokin, another charitable friend, donated a stay at her family’s fabulous Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, for five nights in a charming beachfront cottage. A New York trip included tickets to “Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark” courtesy of glam woman-about-world Sugar Rautbord. Other live auction items included dinners for 10 prepared by chefs Vogel and Jean Tippenhauer. An Aston Martin generously offered at cost by Lake Forest Sports Cars brought in big money for the Primo Center as well. A fashion show produced by Trevian Kutti included selections by Vivienne Westwood, Monique Lhuillier, Moschino, Blumarine and Trussardi. Ballerinas from the Chicago Ballet School danced to the show’s hot soundtrack that was created by London DJ Sweet T. International model Daje Barbour opened and closed the show. The event was a great success due in large part to its outstanding host committee that included Oswald Boateng, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Mary Jo Basler, Les Coney, Joan Colmar, Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecori, Kathleen Gaynor-Dickey, Susan Gohl, Hedwig and Robert Golant, Maurice Hennessey, Paul Iacono, Kathleen Klaeser, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sugar Rautbord, Frances Renk, Rochelle and Charlie Trotter, Dan Uslan, Mamie Walton, Andrew Hart, Kathy Reilly and so many more! More than $400,000 was raised to benefit the Primo Center for Women and Children which is an interim and supportive housing program that provides a safe, healthy and positive environment for homeless women and their children. To see ALL of the fabulous photos by Mila Samokhina, click here and let me take YOU to the party below on Watch312.com!

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The Langham Chicago opened in grand style recently along the Chicago river elegantly occupying the Mies van der Rohe landmark building at 330 N. Wabash. Langham Hospitality Group Executive Chairman Dr. K.S. Lo and Managing Director of The Langham Robert Schofield invited a select group to the afternoon luncheon and ribbon cutting ceremony that included former Mayor Richard Daley, Dirk Lohan (designing grandson of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe who designed the Lohan Lobby in the hotel) and Lang Lang, world famous pianist who is also The Langham ambassador. The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on the plaza overlooking the river and included remarks by Alderman Brendan Reilly, Daley and Lohan. Dr. Lo thanked the crowd for attending and for welcoming The Langham to Chicago. Mayor Daley mentioned Chicago as a global city and how important it is to have this latest jewel in Chicago’s crown. (His father was at the groundbreaking in 1973 for this landmark building.) This hotel is the Langham Hospitality Group’s fourth U.S. property and offers 316 rooms (starting at 516 square feet, making them some of the largest in the city); a world class Chuan Spa; Tiffin afternoon tea in the Pavilion Lounge; an elegant Langham Club Lounge with legendary butler service directed by Carlos Carrera; a Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Travelle, under the director of Chef Tim Graham; a 22,000-square-foot health club; a 67-foot pool; 15,000 square feet of event space and so much more. The artwork rivals any museum’s collection with many pieces selected by Dr. Lo’s glamorous daughter Katherine Lo Bo Lun. An evening event featured Lang Lang at the piano much to the delight of all in attendance. Notables seen on the scene included Katie Benson (CEO and executive director of Langham Hospitality Investments), Joe Aguilera (Langham hotel manager), Rebecca Werner (PR Director The Langham Chicago), Paul Iacono, Helen Melchior, Joan Colmar, Darleen Hill, Veranda Dickens, Bunky Cushing and Kathy Adams to name a few. Since 1865, The Langham has built a legacy based on luxurious comfort and service innovation and it continues this tradition, much to our delight, right here in Chicago! Watch the party on “Candid Candace Chicago” below! (For more info, click here.)

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More than 200 of Chicago’s most fabulous and philanthropic headed to the swanky Gold Coast club The Back Room for the Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s third annual cocktail party on September 26th. Co-chaired by MaryAnne Smith, Lesley Prizant Goodman and Carol Beitler, the event raised funds to support the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House located in Streeterville. As guests dined on signature food and cocktails from the club, they were also treated to a jazz performance from the Bobby Lewis Quartet. The fabulous fete also brought out some well known Chicago faces such as PGA Tour golfer Luke Donald and wife Diane (RMH Women’s Auxiliary member), former Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith, NBC Chicago’s Daniella Guzman (RMH Women’s Auxiliary member), Stefan Holt and Kye Martin, Heather Farley, Helen Melchior, Sheryl Dyer and Bill Chunowitz, among many others. Always located in close proximity to area hospitals, Ronald McDonald Houses provide a “home away from home” for the families of sick children who are receiving life-giving care at nearby facilities. The Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s provides care and comfort for 86 families each and every night. For more information, visit www.rhmccni.org.

Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) hosted its 8th Annual Dancing with the Giordano Stars competition benefit at Park West on September 26th. Patterned after the hit ABC series “Dancing with the Stars,” the popular competition dance benefit was hosted by NBC’s Wayne Johnson and drew a crowd of more than 300 enthusiastic fans and raised more than $120,000, setting a record-high total for this event which benefits GDC and its outreach programs. The evening began at 6 p.m. with cocktails and light fare, followed by the competition. The five male competitors and their GDC dance partners were Executive Director of the Auditorium Theatre Brett Batterson (with Katie Rafferty); VP Sales Bridge-X Technologies, Inc. Kip Helverson (with Maeghan McHale); President, KMKCK Corp. Ken Moll (with Rachael B
erube); Kendall College Director of Strategic Initiatives Joe Monastero (with Ashley Downs); and Ford model David Sanchez (with Laurel Bashore). The five female contestants and their GDC dance partners were ViLiving general counsel Tara Cope (with Devin Buchanan); co-founder and co-proprietor of Barrington Hills’ The Gentleman Farmer CSA and market farm Jessica Green (with Zachary Heller); freelance artist Sheila Newman (with Martin Ortiz Tapia); Embeya restaurant Director of Sales Komal Patel, (with Joshua Blake Carter), and Chicago civic and philanthropic leader Sara Crown Star (with Sean Rozanski). Ken Moll was voted Best Male Contestant and – in a very close race – Jessica Green won for Best Female Contestant. (An honorable mention went to Sara Crown Star.) For more info on programs and GDC events, call 312-334-7777 or click here.

Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control (FCACC) held its ninth annual fundraiser – Big Night – recently with a record turnout! More than 400 tickets were sold and more than $92,000 was raised during this popular celebrity chefs event that secured funding for another year to provide support and comfort for the animals at ACC. Proceeds will also support its foster program that saved the lives of nearly 400 animals last year. Fifteen Chicago chefs including Jill Baron of MANA Food Bar, Ryan Pitts of RL and Toni Motamen of Raw Bar & Grill served tastings of their favorite dishes to attendees who sipped on cocktails from the Muttini Bar serving Cosmopoodletons and non-alcoholic Kitty Cocktails. Famed Chicago Chef Jackie Shen started Big Night in partnership with FCACC in 2005 to benefit the organization by raising money and awareness for animals from Chicago’s city shelter. Jackie now provides oversight from afar, living in Michigan and operating her restaurant The Stray Dog, in New Buffalo. She helps to recruit chefs year after year. Notable Chicagoans came out to support the cause including emcees Channel 7 Sportscaster Jim Rose with his wife, lifestyle design expert Lakesha Rose, as well as businessman and Chicago Wolves owner Don Levin, generous longtime supporter of Friends. A variety of exclusive items were purchased during the live and silent auctions including VIP passes to “Conan” donated by iO Theatre owner Charna Halpern, a behind the scenes tour at the Shedd Aquarium, Blackhawks and Bulls courtside seats and more. Live entertainment was provided by violinist extraordinaire Katarina Visnevska and animal communicator Carolee Biddle. (For more info on FCACC, click here.)

Celebrate the season of giving at the Metropolitan Family Services 32nd Annual Holiday Celebration on December 7th beginning at 6 p.m., at the Chicago Hilton, 720 S. Michigan. Enjoy live entertainment from Sammie Torres and Friends, cocktails, dinner and dessert along with fabulous live and silent auctions. There will be a special raffle for a wine collection featuring select vintages. One hundred percent of proceeds benefit the programs and services of Metropolitan Family Services, which has empowered families to learn, earn, heal and thrive since 1857. Tickets are $350. For more information, visit www.metrofamily.org or call 312-986-4172.

Huge kudos to WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” for the great segment on my favorite makeup artist Michael Perich and his fabulous CAMP Cosmetics line! Co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman hosted a great segment on fall cosmetic trends from CAMP and it was terrific and informative. If you missed it, check it out below! Congrats to Michael! (To view CAMP’s fabulous makeup line, click here!)

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And speaking of “You & Me This Morning”, I was thrilled to return to the show recently to discuss my top five event picks for fall! If you missed the segment, see below and put these hot parties on your calendar now!

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Recently, R&B singer Ciara hosted the Hennessy V.S. party at Chicago hot spot, Lumen. The singer rocked darker locks with an all-black ensemble, including a chic cropped black sweater (a la Miley) and black leather pants. She thanked the crowd for coming out and for supporting her new album, Ciara. Later in the evening, the singer was spotted chatting up Tone Kapone from the Power 92 Hot Boyz radio show. (Pics by Onasis.)

In the fight against breast cancer, it’s a team effort. That’s why Chicago Bears cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman has joined with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and P &G Brands to host the “Best Defense Day of Action” on October 22nd at Halas Hall. He’s leading the charge in the program to ask men to work with the women in their lives on an early breast cancer detection program and will tell his personal story at a media event at noon. (His grandmother is a breast cancer survivor.) So join Peanut at 1920 Football Dr. in Lake Forest beginning at 11:45 a.m. and be inspired. 🙂

Looking for something spooky to do for Halloween? Well, look no further than “Boo: A Halloween Ball” on October 31st at the Chicago History Museum from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be terrifying tales told by Steppenwolf’s Jessica Thebus and music that will wake the dead by DJ Nix with devilishly delicious craft cocktails. Come dressed to impress in your most spooktacular costumes for an event so good, it’s to die for!!! LOL! (For tickets and more info, click here.)

And another great Halloween event will be at Chicago’s favorite wine-driven destination, The Boarding House, on November 2nd. An All Hallow’s Eve affair will benefit Imerman Angels, whose mission is to provide personalized connections that enable 1-on-1 support among cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers. From 6:30 to 10 p.m., guests are invited to enjoy a bar package featuring a selection of spooky cocktails and bewitching wines and beers on the haunted first floor and subterranean cellar of 720 N. Wells. The evening’s festivities will also include complimentary appetizers, decked-out décor and a costume contest judged by Imerman Angels’ very own founder, Jonny Imerman. Tickets to the event are $85 per person and will be available through www.TicketLeap.com or by calling (312) 280-0720.

Join Children’s Oncology Services as they celebrate their 35th Anniversary Gala on November 7th at the Chicago Cultural Center. The evening will feature Michael Lerich & Orchestra as well as a packed silent auction. The evening will benefit the COS’ One-Step Programs that offers camp experiences for children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. For tickets and more info, visit www.onestepcamp.org)

Beloved Chicago designer Elda de la Rosa is relocating and having a BIG Farewell Event at her Edgewater location on October 17th. Join Elda at 5555 N. Sheridan Road from noon to 8 p.m. for this big sale consisting of all bridal gowns, special occasion pieces, accessories and one-of-a-kind fabrics at deep discounts! Elda will launch her 2014 collection on November 1st at the new “Made in Chicago” AIBI store in the Gold Coast located at 17 E. Pearson! Good luck Elda and I’ll see you soon!

Don’t miss Akira’s 11th annual fall fashion show and signature event of the season, Supersonic Boom, on October 20th at Grossinger City Autoplex beginning at 4 p.m. You’ll experience sensory overload with small bites from top restaurants around town, a breakdance performance from Brickheadz, mini massages from ellehomme Holistic Med Spa and a fabulous Akira pop-up shop! The show will feature Kristin Cavallari and 30 of Chicago’s top models! Proceeds from the evening will benefit YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. For tickets, beginning at $30, click here.

Congrats to Nina and Bob Mariano on the recent grand opening of their 12th store, this one located in the South Loop at 1615 S. Clark St. (Mayor Emanuel was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony.) He knows what buyers want and gives it to them in grand style at great prices! And aren’t they just the cutest couple around, too?! Mariano’s has created approximately 4,200 jobs in Chicagoland to date and this new location will add another 425 positions. A hot party held that night brought out the FOMs (Friends of Mariano’s) in force! Congrats, Nina and Bob! Love you!

More congrats are in order for Katie Cahnmann and her fabulous event site, NowYouKnowEvents.com, as they celeb
rate their third anniversary! Her loyal crowd of friends and followers enjoyed a fun filled night out at River North’s Blackfinn Ameripub!

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte doesn’t need any more battery power but he has joined forces with Duracell as they donate their new Quantum batteries to the City of Chicago’s Fire Department. This is part of Duracell’s commitment to donate 1 million batteries to the first responders across the country that need them for life-saving devices. #NICEWORK (Photo by Barry Brecheisin.)

ABC 7 Chicago President and General Manager John Idler and “Windy City Live” host Val Warner supported an event for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), an organization that advocates for abused and neglected children in the foster care system. Val emceed the fundraiser that also honored Rocky Wirtz, chairman of the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks, for his community service. The event took place on October 8th at Lloyd’s in Chicago. Congrats John, Val and Rocky on your good work!

Congrats to the happy couple, Macy’s Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker, on their recent engagement! Here’s to a lifetime of happy memories together!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition! I hope to get back on track now after our big move and thank you for your patience. I’ve missed you terribly so stay tuned for the 411 on 312 right here on CandidCandace.com! You can also find me on Twitter, Facebook, Chicago Now, videos at Watch312.com and every Sunday in the Chicago Tribune!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here’s what’s happening in our new ‘hood next weekend: On October 20th, you won’t want to miss this furry 10th annual Halloween Party & Parade hosted by Tails in the City with an adorable costume contest from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. – hope to see you there!

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September 18, 2013 · 9:37 am

GREEN TIE BALL AND MORE: CHICAGO IS ON FIRE WITH HOT EVENTS FOR FALL!

…PLUS DWYANE WADE GIVES BACK; PGA WIVES TOUR; ADLER’S CELESTIAL BALL; MUTT STRUT; JACKIE TAYLOR’S NEW HIT; DEVIL’S BALL; BARBARA BATES’ FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER; JOFFREY’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS; ODYSSEY’S $2-MIL RENO; VICTOR AND SHERREN ARE DREAM WEAVERS; I “HEART” REKLAMA AND MILA; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO; TOP FALL EVENTS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Green Tie Ball, benefitting Chicago Gateway Green, always has the BEST themes in town! For 2012, the theme was “Alice in Wonderland” and boy did they ever have fun with that! As soon as you entered the grounds of “Finkl Town” (aka A. Finkl & Sons at
2011 N. Southport), you knew it was going to be a fabulous night. With dramatic decor that included oversized lamp fixtures on every bar with big clocks hanging from the shades, this event propelled me right down the rabbit hole along with 3,000 other guests! Characters that included Alice, the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat and the Mad Hatter roamed the grounds giving all of the
guests great opportunities for photos. And for this year’s 22nd annual event, it was no different: Themed “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”, this gala was a very sweet treat indeed. Co-chair Lee Golub (along with wife Sandy) described
it best: “This year’s theme will satisfy your sweet tooth and bring music makers and dreamers of dreams together. Just like Wonka offered the children of his adventure a lifetime of chocolate, events like tonight allow us to offer
Chicago a lifetime of sustainability and beauty. So, for tonight, claim your Golden Ticket, delight in our pure imagination and dare to dream of a better Chicago.” More than 50 restaurants participated in the gala which the “Food
Dude” David Lissner described as “the largest damn culinary event ever!” Several of the restaurants had fun with the Willy Wonka theme including Old Town restaurant, The Refinery. Pastry Chef Hetty Art, enclosed five Golden Tickets inside her chocolate fudge with the winners receiving gift bags. Too
cute! Other highlights included a bubble-blowing DJ from Red Moon Theatre Company, glow-in-the-dark cotton candy and characters from the Willy Wonka movie that included a chocolate boy and a huge, purple
Violet Beauregarde. For the third year, Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini emceed the event alongside co-chairs Sandy and Lee Golub (who was dressed as Willy Wonka)! Dancers opened the night with a hot DJ set by Justin
Jacobson and later, Lee Golub drummed onstage with his cover band, Dr. Bombay. In a nearby tent, Rivers Casino hosted craps, roulette and blackjack tables with winnings going towards the raffle. The headliner of the night, SNDCLSH – a DJ duo
consisting of Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco and DJ Sky Gellatly – kept the guests on the dance floor including the VIPs in the Oompa Loompa lounge. For the last song, Fiasco rapped out his hit “The Show Goes On”
while confetti rained down from the stage. This year's attendance of 3,500 was a record breaker! Guests seen on the scene included Kim DeJesus, Joanna and Grant DePorter, Erica Strama, Lana Bramlette, Jason
Erkes, DJ Rock City, Katie Cahnmann, the Landan twins, Alayna and DC Crenshaw, Chef Ryan Poli, Kimberly and James Feeley, Daniela Guzman, Anna Davlantes, Alicia Roman, Tony Abruscato, Brenda Arelano, Rachel Haley, Susanna and Tom Negovan, Donnell Wolford, Bob Sirott and Bridget Halanski. Other familiar faces
included Joe Minoso and Yuri Sardarov of NBC’s “Chicago Fire”. Each year, the Green Tie Ball raises funds for the Expressway Partnership Program, an initiative aimed at “beautifying the gateways and transforming the roadways into parkways.” This year's event raised more than $480K. (For info about Chicago Gateway Green, click here.) (Additional photos by Dwayne Kuan.)

Families and children staying at the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s (located at 211 E. Grand Ave.), were treated to a visit from members of The PGA Tour Wives Association on
September 11th, complete with Patriot Day activities for the kids. The visitors, who were in town for the BMW Championship that took place recently in Lake Forest, included Diane Donald, Amber Watney, Rachel Thompson, Lori Points, Katie Robinson, Amy Wilson,
Brittany Horschel, Rosalind Schwartzel, Taylor Fowler, Debi Rolfing, Lynn Fowler and Stephanie Mrofchak. The PGA Tour Wives Association gives back to golfing communities and child-related charities through volunteerism and other contributions. The fun-filled afternoon at the House featured a variety of activities, such as a
“Hands Helping Hands” craft where children created American Flags to send to U.S. troops and their families, a special ceremonial salute with the Chicago Fire Department, and a delicious lunch of dishes from the PGA Tour Wives Association’s commemorative book, “Beyond the Fairways and Greens”. The special day originated with Diane Donald,
wife of PGA Tour player Luke Donald. The couple (who call Chicago home) became supporters of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana in the fall of 2012 when they first visited the House near Lurie Children’s. Today, Diane serves on the charity’s Board of Directors, and Luke has been raising money for RMHC-CNI through a unique fundraising initiative called Birdies for the House. Love this! Congrats and thanks ladies!

At the Adler Planetarium’s Celestial Ball, more than 725 guests helped raise $1.4 million for the Adler’s STEM education programs which
reach more than 90,000 students and teachers each year with a special emphasis on at-risk communities. Apollo astronaut James Lovell, Jr. was the honorary chair and Elisa Primavera Bailey, Linda Gerstman and Donna Beering Wheaton were ball co-chairs.
With a theme of “Infinite Horizons”, the decor transported guests on a trip throughout the galaxy. A fabulous auction offered a family trip to Space Camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and a rare charcoal Labrador puppy. The Adler Planetarium, dubbed America’s First Planetarium, was
founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler and inspires young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

And could Dwyane Wade be any cuter?! Oh my goodness, an awesome athlete, handsome as can be AND charitable?! He is the real deal and it was a thrill to meet him at his recent Wade’s World Foundation
Gala hosted by CNN’s TJ Holmes at the Peninsula on September 6th. The VIP reception was packed with bold-faced names that included Michi and Brandon
Marshall, James Feeley, Dionne Williams, Deborah and Adam Farmer, Dr. Ian and Triste Smith, Alderman Carrie Austin, Damon Williams, Zoraida Sambolin and Kenny Williams, Secretary of State Jesse White, members of Mindless
Behavior (they have more than 1 million Twitter followers, don’t cha know?!), Michael Malone, Urban Prep’s Tim King, Father Michael Pfleger, Jolinda Wade, Jon and Andrew Landan, Lisa Newman, Astra Gamsjaeger and so many more. Wade’s sister Tragil introduced him
at the reception and congratulated him on his 10 years in the NBA (with the Miami Heat) and the 10 year anniversary of his foundation. The event also featured performances from violinist Lee England, Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Vashawn
Mitchell, singers Kristen Lowe and Mae Ya Ryan and comedian Damon Williams. Wade’s high school basketball coach Jack Fitzgerald spoke about how Wade had always been a team leader and children
from the foundation recited the “Live to Dream” pledge. Marjorie and Steve Harvey and Laura Ricketts received the 2013 Philanthropy Awards. (For more info and photos, check out my Chicago Tribune column here!)

Don’t miss Jackie Taylor’s “It’s All-Right to Have a Good Time”, the life story of Curtis Mayfield, at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center in previews now through the 21th! Reggie Torian, the lead singer of the Impressions, will be making his acting debut! Written by Jackie Taylor and directed by Taylor and Daryl Brooks, the production will begin on September 22nd. (For tickets and more info, click here.)

Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control will host their 9th annual celebrity chef's benefit, “Big Night”, to help the city’s neediest animals on September 26th from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington. More than a dozen of the city’s best chefs will participate in this event that will also feature an open “Muttini” bar, silent and live auctions (that will include Conan O’Brien tix and Sidney Garber jewelry) and so much more! ABC 7’s Jim Rose and his beautiful wife Lakesha will emcee. For tickets ($100 donation, $125 at the door) and more info, click here!)

The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University’s Junior Board brings “old Chicago” back to the Historic Landmark Theatre with the 3rd annual Devil’s Ball, on September 27th. Presented by Rivers Casino and themed after “old Chicago neighborhoods”, the event will host nearly 250 young professionals and feature a menu that will include deep dish pizza, mini Chicago hot dogs, Little Italy’s Italian beef, Spanakopita as on ode to Greektown and egg rolls and pot stickers highlighting Chicago’s Chinatown! Yum!!! (For tickets – $65 – and more info, click here.)

National breast and ovarian cancer charity Bright Pink’s 4th Annual FabFest is back, hosted by E! News anchor and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic, on September 29th at the Westin River North! At the event, more than 500 women from across the nation will join together for a day of health, wellness and beauty – all in support of the cause. (For more info, visit www.BrightPink.org and www.FabFest2013.org.)

I have a soft spot in my heart for The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails coming to Park West (located at 322 W. Armitage) on October 4th. Co-chaired by dual dynamos Kathleen Henson and Sonya Jackson, this is the 8th annual C & C and the second largest fundraiser for the Joffrey Ballet. I was proud to create this event with Helen Melchior, a long-time supporter/board member/mentor for this awesome company and, from the very beginning, it’s been all about the dancers! So happy to see this tradition continue in such a grand way and led by dear friends Kathleen and Sonya! This year’s event will feature a presentation of Joffrey costumes as well as the Couture Collection from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue that will include menswear! I hope you can all come out and join us for this chic event benefitting Chicago’s world class ballet company! For tickets and more info, visit www.Joffrey.org.

Celebrating 10 years of Chicagoans “strutting” their stuff for dogs in need, Chicago Canine Rescue will host their popular Mutt Strut on October 5th in Lakeview along Newport Avenue (between Southport and Lakewood). Dog-lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk with their “mutt” followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! Highlights will include a doggy fitness course, K9 cake eating contest, dog wash and nail trims along with a children’s bouncy house, face painter and costumed characters! Pet expert Steve Dale and NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celeb emcees. To register in advance ($25), click here! (Kiddies and doggies free!)

I had always wanted to take a trip on the Odyssey. My last time aboard was when my dad was still alive back in the ‘80s and, after I’d read about its recent $2 million reno, I was anxious to return to see the changes that were made and also to verify for myself all of the press I’d read. I was even more excited when they asked me to cover it! So, with my crack Watch312.com team in tow, along with my husband Chuck, we set
off on another new adventure aboard the largest vessel cruising Lake Michigan, the Odyssey Chicago. As we wended our way up the gangplank, I was delighted to see that every passenger was given a great photo op behind its signature lifesaver. And as I entered the space, I was blown away. I thought it was nice back in the ‘80s but now it's a floating palace…take a look at my video and you’ll see what I mean!

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A special thanks to Sherren Leigh and legendary photog Victor Skrebneski for making a dream come true. I’m thrilled to be appearing on my second cover for beloved Today's Chicago Woman Magazine for its 31st anniversary issue in October AND having it shot by Victor! It was the experience of a lifetime – read all about it here in my latest Chicago Now post. Thanks so much, Sherren and Victor and Dennis Minkel! (www.TCWMag.com)

And now, here are some not-to-be-missed events for fall! Hope to see you at one or more!

1. Primo Classico Br’Italia (benefitting the Primo Center): September 22nd at Lake Forest Sports Cars, 990 N. Shore Dr. in Lake Bluff from 1p.m. to 5 p.m.

2. Goodman Season Opening Benefit: September 24th, featuring “Pullman Porter Blues” (Performance follows the gala dinner at The Standard Club)

3. Ronald McDonald House Annual Cocktail Party: September 26th at the Back Room, 937 N. Rush from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

4. Big Shoulders Fund Ball: September 27th at the Illuminating Co., 2110 S. Wabash from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

5. Imerman Angels’ Tuxes & Tees Ball: September 28th, Roosevelt University Ballroom at 430 S. Michigan

6. Chicago Humanities Gala: October 2nd at The Four Seasons at120 E. Delaware beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Congrats are in order for The Joffrey Ballet! The Board of Directors of the Rudolf Nureyev Dance Foundation have awarded The Joffrey Ballet a $500,000 challenge grant, creating an endowment for the purpose of producing and performing full-length story ballets for years to come. This grant represents one of the largest awarded to a single cultural institution in the Foundation’s history!!

So honored to have been included on the cover of this week’s Reklama with the beautiful Larisa Kronfeld! Thanks to fab fotog Mila Samokhina for making this happen and for her brilliant coverage of the Service Club’s Day on the Terrace fashion show which was also featured. 🙂

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace! We will be moving next week so wish me luck! My next report will be from the Gold Coast where we’ll be firmly ensconced with a doorman and a heated garage – I’ll finally know what all of the fuss is about! 🙂 And lastly, I always want to leave you smiling so this video should definitely do the trick!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. On the rooftop at Epic Sky, with a great backdrop of the city, Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan came to Chicago to promote the new home for their show – “LIVE! with Kelly and Michael” – on ABC 7 weekdays at 9 a.m.! Good luck, Kelly and Michael…you make a great team!

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September 4, 2013 · 1:04 pm

MUSINGS ON THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

…PLUS NEIMAN’S BEAUTY BASH (VIDEO); CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR’S “RED JACKET OPTIONAL”; WILLY WONKA’S GREEN TIE BALL (VIDEO); MICHIGAN AVENUE MAG CELEBRATE FIVE YEARS IN STYLE (VIDEO); DWYANE WADE’S STAR-STUDDED GALA; BEAR TIE BALL; CHICAGO INNOVATION AWARD NOMINATION; GLOBAL LATINO FEST; NIALA’S THIRD; ORYX MAG LOVES CAMP; SPACE519’S CHIC LAUNCH; HERITAGE AUCTIONS BRINGS VINTAGE TO BARNEY’S; SERVICE CLUB’S DAY AT THE RACES; CHICAGO FIRE’S SOCCER & STYLE AND SO MUCH MORE!

August is always a lazy month except for Macy’s Glamorama which seems to me to be the last gasp of summer fashion and fun. I know Kerry and Sarah Wood’s Woody’s Wiffleball
Classic added some star-studded excitement to the calendar as did Dance for Life and the Air and Water Show. And even
though the Thunderbirds didn’t perform, it didn’t cut down on the number of parties and the perfect weather still attracted crowds along the lakefront. We spent the day in the most beautiful penthouse in Chicago
with old friends. It was idyllic and a wonderful respite from our currently tumultuous life.

As some of you may or may not know, Chuck and I recently sold our home in Old Town. As much as we’ve loved this old house, it was time to move on. With multiple gardens and never ending maintenance, we decided our lives needed a breather. I never realized how much trouble, time and effort it required to move after 20 years in one
spot. I can’t believe the stuff I saved. Here’s my story: We had been talking about it for a year. Six
months ago, we put our house up for sale and it sold recently. For a while, I had mixed emotions since this house has held nothing but happy memories for Chuck
and me but as the years progressed and we became busier and busier, the fun of gardening in three gardens (deck, backyard and front yard) became harder and harder on both of us. In fear
of becoming something similar to Big Edie and Little Edie’s “Grey Gardens”, we did our best to keep up. But, as old houses get older, this presents a whole new set of problems we had no desire to deal with, gardening being the least of them. I’ve been packing for
months and it’s been bittersweet going through photos and memories – and goodness knows I have a few! – but what I’ve come to realize is how absolutely liberating it is to get rid of the old (except for your treasures) and begin anew. I
found out I’d saved so many things I didn’t really need, like one tiny yellow flipper that my mother had saved when I learned to swim. I also realized that no one will want my baby shoes (although Chuck is giving me a hard time about throwing them away.) Once
I started tossing, it was hard to stop. The first time Chuck met the woman who raised me and who was like a mother to me, Mary Johnson, she gave him a Mister Ed talking puppet. The joy on her face as she pulled the cord to make it talk was priceless but I figured it was just another tchotchke I could dump. When I was cleaning Chuck’s closet and saw
that he had squirreled it away in his sock drawer, it made me cry so it will definitely be moving to our new home. I once read an article about only children (of which I’m one) and had to laugh when it said they are savers and borderline hoarders. Sadly, this description fit me to a T but I’m determined to find and create a jewel box filled with only the
things we love and couldn’t live without. I also have some tips for first-time buyers: China cabinets are a definite no-no. (You never use the stuff you always think you will one day and most of it doesn’t go in the dishwasher anyway so who needs it?!) My days of formal
entertaining are long gone – friends are lucky to get chips and dip lately around my house so I have no qualms about giving away all of our crystal. And if you receive crystal as a wedding gift, which I know you will, run don’t walk to return it otherwise you’ll dust it for
20 years and then give it away. Another thing to remember when you buy your first home is to buy the best you can afford as far as home furnishings and decor. Everything else will wind up in the junk heap when you move so all of those Ikea purchases – although thrifty – wouldn’t be my first choice. I also suggest buying from auction houses:
These are great spots to find the unique and one-of-a-kind at great prices. It’s not so good for sellers but for buyers, it’s nirvana. There was a great article in the Tribune Magazine recently by Cindy Dampier titled “Lighten Your Load”. I was riveted reading it – her opening line read, “If you want to really see your stuff, move out of a place you’ve lived in for more than 10 years. Live in any one place north of a decade and the days in
which it’s easier to pretend you don’t see the 15 cheap floral shop vases on the closet shelf will start to outnumber you.” Today, I felt liberated to give things away to friends of ours who have always loved our style. These were pieces bought just to fill spaces. Don’t get
me wrong, they were the perfect objects for these particular spots but probably wouldn’t be right for a new place. The smiles and gratitude on our friends’ faces were worth way more than what we paid for these items. I’m happy to know that the people who bought our house are planning on raising a family here. This is definitely a home that will
be perfect for children. The backyard is completely enclosed with no alley so no fear of intruders and no worries for Mom and Dad when the kids want to play in the backyard. Another happy thought is the fact that I know they love this house as much as we loved it when we first bought it. Change is good (scary but good!) and Chuck and I are very much looking forward to our next chapter…albeit one with less maintenance!

It was a true beauty bonanza at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue for its launch party, co-hosted with Cheeky Chicago, to celebrate its newly renovated cosmetics department on August 22th. Almost 200 guests turned
out for this beauty bash that also included nail art from Astrowifey, music by DJ Mister Wolf, blowouts from Blowtique and special guest Tim Quinn, national director of artistry from Giorgio Armani. Dapper Quinn shared stories about celebrity makeovers and worked with guests to select special scents from Armani Prive
fragrance: He told me the fragrances were inspired by Armani’s travels and life experiences. Armani had even created a scent similar to the inside of the church he frequented with his mother when he was a child. I loved it! The line
for nail art from expert Astrowifey was three deep as she applied her unique skills to adorn each guest’s nails. The photo booth was a crowd
favorite, too, with everyone sharing their flipbook photos while they sipped Effen cucumber and black cherry cocktails. Even the appetizers were artistic with food displayed over various cosmetic products encased
within plastic trays! Special guests seen on the scene included Cheeky Chicago’s Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Fabrice Calmels, Corri McFadden, Marcus Riley, Bianca Camarena, Angi Taylor, Jessica Rosas, Claudia Sulkowski, Natasha Jovic, Kat Miletic, Molly Ellingsen, Stephanie Guerrieri, Jessica Schultz, Jelena Saric, Kathryn Sharples and Ven Effect founder Cecil Booth. The entire store is undergoing an amazing transformation. If
you haven’t visited in a while, you will love the changes for this “Jewel on the Mile”. Next up, the shoe department will have a
similar celebration bash with model/actress Joanna Krupa on September 12th! Hope to see you there! (For more info on Neiman’s special events, click here!)

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The Chicago Children’s Choir, under the direction of president/artistic director Josephine Lee, will host its annual Red Jacket Optional fundraising gala, celebrating the Choir’s 57th anniversary on October 18th at 6 p.m. at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. The Choir hopes to raise $1 million to continue to offer music education to nearly 3,500 Chicago
children, of which 72 percent come from low-income families. This event will bring together hundreds of philanthropic Chicagoans for a night of performances by 300 children in addition to the top-level Voice of Chicago. The gala will also debut the organization’s
new after-school program, the Englewood Neighborhood Choir, with their first-ever performance. “Violence in Chicago has reached epidemic proportions,” said Lee. “We as a community must help our city’s children find an alternative to the streets, and music holds that power to change lives.” For tickets ($500) and table sponsorships, please contact Emily Hallock at ehallock@cchoir.org.

One of Chicago’s most celebrated charity events, the Green Tie Ball, returns this year with a whimsical “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” theme. Hosted by Chicago Gateway Green, which is dedicated to greening and beautifying
the region’s expressways, gateways and communities, the Green Tie Ball (presented by A. Finkl & Sons) will be held on September 7th on Finkl’s factory grounds at 2011 N. Southport. Founded in 1992 by Chicago Gateway Green’s late founder Donald
DePorter, the Green Tie Ball is one of the city’s largest celebrations with officer-at-large Grant DePorter continuing the traditions of his father. This year’s event will feature DJ sets by SNDCLSH consisting of Lupe Fiasco and DJ Sky Gellatly. (Fiasco, a Chicago native, is a Grammy-nominated artist.)
Co-chair Lee Golub and his band Dr. Bombay will also take the stage, as well as other guest deejays throughout the evening. Partygoers will enjoy tastings from more than 55 of Chicago’s top restaurants, like Siena Tavern, Lockwood, Mercadito, Jellyfish, Tavernita and Public House, as well as multiple open bars with premium
offerings. ABC7’s “Windy City Live!” hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini, will return to emcee once again. The fundraiser is co-chaired by Lee Golub of Golub & Company and his
wife, Sandy. Vice co-chairs are Grigory Pekarsky of Vesta Preferred Realty and Molly Bromiley of Northern Trust. There will be a VIP reception from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. where guests arriving on the green carpet, adorned in their most
marvelous green-tie attire, will be greeted with a champagne toast as they make their way to the cocktail reception. In addition, a silent auction and Rivers Casino charitable gaming area – the ball’s exclusive gaming sponsor – will feature roulette, blackjack and craps. Winnings from the
casino game will go toward tickets for the raffle. VIP tickets ($250 in advance or $275 at the door, both options which includes admittance to the VIP cocktail reception and gala.) This popular gala, returning each year with a new and engaging theme, raises
funds for Gateway Green’s Expressway Partnership Program. It was first held in 1992 as a 500-person street party and is now one of the best-known charity events in Chicago, attended last year by nearly 3,000 people and raising more than $450,000. The gala attracts Chicago’s most prominent public, political and media figures, environmental
supporters as well as young professionals and local celebrities. General admission ($150 pre-purchased, $175 at the door) can be purchased here. For more info about Chicago Gateway Green, click here. (Photos by Mila Samokhina…and to see my Watch312.com video from last year’s “Alice in Wonderland”-themed event, see below!)

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Michigan Avenue Magazine celebrated its fifth anniversary in style with cover girl and Grammy-winner Michelle Williams. Held at Chicago’s newest
luxury hotel, the Langham Chicago, the evening included a red carpet reception, a video tribute (filmed by our Watch312.com team) and a surprise Eli’s Cheesecake birthday presentation. Almost 300 fans and friends turned out to congratulate
president and publisher Dan Uslan and editor-in-chief JP Anderson. Take a look at the fun on my Watch312.com “Candid Candace Chicago” show below!

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Basketball great Dwyane Wade and Wade’s World Foundation (WWF) will celebrate dual 10th anniversaries with a benefit gala on September 6th at the Peninsula Chicago. Dwyane will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of his foundation and his 10th year in the NBA with the Miami Heat. The evening will also honor comedian/talk show host Steve Harvey and wife Marjorie along with Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts with Excellence in Philanthropy Awards. Starting at 6:30 p.m. with a reception on the Shanghai Terrace, the event will also include a red carpet reception, dinner, cocktails and live performances. Former CNN reporter TJ Holmes will serve as the emcee.
Surprise guest performances will highlight a tribute to Wade. Wade’s World Foundation provides support to community-based organizations that promote education, health and social skills for children in at-risk situations. As part of the 10th anniversary celebration, D-Wade and WWF will host a series of events to support our youth and the work of his foundation. For info on the foundation, click here and for tickets ($350), contact D. Williams Public Relations Group at 312.243.9060.

Mark your calendars now for the 21st anniversary of the Bear Tie Ball on March 8th at the UIC Forum from 6 p.m. to midnight. Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation was founded
in 1992 by Kathleen Casey. This national foundation is named in memory of her eight-year-old son, Barrett “Bear” Krupa, who died after a courageous 5 1/2 year battle with Wilms Tumor, a pediatric cancer. Over the course of
two decades, the Bear Tie Ball has been the organization’s largest, most important fundraiser. Last year’s co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto raised more than $750,000. I’m honored to be the chair of this year’s big event and know I have very large shoes to fill! Hope you can all join me! (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

The Ninth Annual Global Latino Fest will commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month with a showcase of culture, cuisine, arts and entertainment from Argentina, Brazil, Cuba and Mexico with a marquee event on October 11th at Germania Place, located at 108 W. Germania Place. All proceeds from the event will support The Resurrection Project’s (TRP) “La Casa”, an initiative that combines affordable housing with support services to help students graduate from college. Prominent guests who will be in attendance include Alderman George Cardenas, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Andrew Hayes, Sherren Leigh, Cheryl Pearson McNeil and Toni Preckwinkle. For tickets and more info, call 312.346.0211.

Congrats to Niala Conte, owner of the new fashion outpost NIALA CONTE (formerly Strut Boutique) that opened recently at The Shops
at North Bridge, located at 520 N. Michigan. “With the success our stores are receiving in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, and at our Geneva, Ill. location, we felt expanding into a third boutique was the natural progression for the company,” said Conte. Shoppers
will find an exciting selection of women’s clothing, handbags, clutches and jewelry. Niala also carries selections from designers Borris Powell and Sheetah Patel. I love this store and Niala’s taste is impeccable. I even found my Joffrey Gala cocktail dress here and it’s one of my favs! Good luck Niala! (For more info, call 312.832.3200 or follow Niala on Facebook and Twitter @nialaconte).

I’m so excited for my CAMP Cosmetics’ Candid Candace lipstick! Oryx Magazine, the official magazine of award-winning Qatar Airlines, has chosen it as a “Wish List” item! It will featured, along with other “highly covetable” products, in its October issue! Oryx reaches a high volume audience of 1.4 million passengers per issue!! It truly is the BEST coral shade you can buy if I say so myself! For more info on Candid Candace lipstick, click here! (Thank YOU sooooo much, Oryx and Qatar Airlines!!!!!!)

Don’t miss the chic launch of karl lagerfeld + melissa, a shop-in-shop set to open at space519 on September 12th from 6 to 8 p.m. Annie Barlow, Kimberly Burt, Toni Canada, Eva Daiberl and Amanda Puck are co-hosting this event that will include Moet champagne and macarons plus Melissa shoes, couture dolls and accessories from Mua Mua. RSVP to whitney@space519.com and I’ll see you there!

Have you visited the Heritage Auctions’ vintage luxury collection at Barney’s yet? OMGoodness! What a great idea to add a section like this to a major store! The collection includes vintage luxury accessories from Hermes, Chanel and Christian Dior. Highlights include an Hermes 23 cm black Caiman croc Constance bag from the 1980’s, an Hermes 35
cm Rouge H Ostrich Birkin bag from the 2000’s and a Chanel cream lambskin leather Double Flap bag from the 1990’s! Vintage couture is here to stay and now has a nice home at Barney’s! Thanks to Heritage Auctions Chicago director Barbara Conn for this cool info! (For more info, visit www.ha.com.)

The Bark Breakfast Benefit will be held on September 7th at the Omni Hotel beginning at 10 a.m. This event will benefit K-9s for Warriors and will include the NBC cast of “Chicago Fire” along with the Mayor. The K9s for Warriors program/rescue pulls dogs from shelters and trains them to be service dogs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury resulting from their service to our country. Ninety-four percent of every dollar raised goes directly to veteran and service dogs. (To make a donation and for more info, click here.)

The Service Club of Chicago’s “Day at the Races” will be held on September 21st at Arlington International Racecourse (the Governor’s Room) beginning at 12:30 p.m. Co-hosted by Heather Jane Johnston and Sally Jo Morris, the event will feature a cocktail reception, luncheon buffet and a limo bus from Gibsons. (For tickets and more info, email info@serviceclubofchicago.org.)

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE a good street fest and this one sounds fabulous: Lincoln Square will celebrate its 26th annual Apple Fest, “Apples, Cider and Hay Bales…Oh My” on September 21st from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Giddings Plaza, located at 4700 N. Lincoln Ave. This free event will include more than 40 vendors and will showcase all things fall. You will have the chance to enjoy amazing apple inspired dishes including apple cider,
apple pies, apple pizza, apple caramel bread pudding, apple smoked pulled pork sandwiches…well, you get the idea! There will also be live music, a kids’ zone, a bounce maze, storytelling, face painting and more! Hope to see you there!

Soccer and Style, a fashion show featuring the hunky Chicago Fire players, will be held on The Wit’s ROOF, located at 201 N. State St. on September 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. (The show starts at 7:30 p.m.) Come see your favorite players walk the runway in this season’s hottest looks from Penguin, Diesel and
Chicago Fire apparel while supporting a great cause. All proceeds will benefit the Chicago Fire Foundation, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for youth and communities throughout Chicagoland by promoting health and wellness, education and the environment. The Foundation also supports organizations that share this vision. (For tickets – $50 regular and $75 VIP – click here.)

The American Cancer Society’s 5th Annual Skyline Soiree will be held on September 20th at City Winery, located at 1200 W. Randolph. The event will feature wine-themed activities and include live
music by Final Say: A Maggie Speaks Band, open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a raffle. Celeb guests will include Kate Pankike (“Project Runway” designer Seasons 11 & 12), Ed Swiderski (winner of Season 5 “The Bachelorette”), Showbiz Shelly (B96 radio) and ESPN’s Sarah Spain. (For tickets – $105 online and $120 at the door – click here.)

The Chicago Fringe Festival 2013 presents “Love, Guts, High School”, a wickedly funny one-woman play by Jeannette Bonner. This breakout hit about young love, self-acceptance and taking life advice from a Magic 8 Ball will premiere at The Gift
Theatre, located at 4802 N. Milwaukee in Jefferson Park on September 5th. (It will run through the 8th.) Bonner plays herself offering an engaging and often self-deprecating recount of relationships she grapples with during her secondary school years. It’s a must-see! For tickets and more info, click here!

And last but not least, I’m so thrilled that my Watch312.com internet show, “Candid Candace Chicago”, is nominated for a Chicago Innovation Award! The gala event will be held at the Harris Theater on October 30th…my fingers are crossed!!! (For tickets and more info, click here!)

I hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Candid Candace! As always, please email me any news and events that you think are special and I’ll try to add them here. I shared a story recently on my Chicago Now blog that has received a lot of interest. It’s a human interest story about my upbringing that you might like. The title is “What Mary and Jim Johnson Taught me About Racial (In)Equality”. Wish they were here now…

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to the Drake Hotel’s Shaun Rajah! After nine years as special events manager at the Palm Court, he is moving on to a new position as senior catering sales manager! Welcome him as a new U.S. citizen, too – so happy for you, Shaun!

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August 23, 2013 · 9:31 am

GLAMORAMA: A LIGHT-INFUSED FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA

…PLUS KERRY AND SARAH’S STARRY DAY AT WRIGLEY; SERVICE CLUB’S FABULOUS FASHION FETE; ERNIE LOVES MILA; COMMON THREADS AND RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE’S FALL PARTIES; GOVERNOR QUINN’S PUPPY LOVE; JESUS’ GALLERY SHOW; STEVE HARVEY WANTS YOU; SING WITH CHICAGO; AN EVENING WITH SMOKEY; KOOL-AID MAN LIGHTS UP CHICAGO; MY WCIU CO-HOSTING JOB; BASH ON WABASH; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN RADIO, TWO NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama was described by Macy’s VP of special productions Mike Gansmoe as an “illuminating journey of fashion seen through the varied lenses of history, pop music, culture, science and
technology.” I simply call it fantastic and another home-run hit out of Macy’s ballpark! The show, which benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana for the fifth year,
featured captivating musical performances by multi-talented singer, songwriter and producer Sheryl Crow and iHeartRadio Rising Star winners The Summer Set. Aerial feats of daring from Cirque du Soleil, cutting
edge lighting and visuals and the best of fall fashions from Macy’s rounded out the hour-long show. It was like a rock concert with an explosion of fashions set against a stunning display of light and sound and I was
mesmerized from the very first number which was a performance by Cirque du Soleil from their Las Vegas “Mystere” production. It was a balancing act performed by two heavily muscled men with whimsically dressed
characters crawling, jumping and somersaulting around the stage that had to be seen to be believed. Macy’s chairman/president/CEO Terry Lundgren then welcomed the crowd and introduced Ronald McDonald House Charities’ ambassador family, the Maules. Sisters Neilah and Jaden were
involved in a horrible car accident last July when an intoxicated driver hit them and both girls wound up in the hospital for six months undergoing extensive, multiple surgeries. A video showed what the Houses mean to families of children like this and how they provide care and comfort throughout the world. Mother Kellie Maule said the Ronald McDonald House felt like “going home” and that “it
provided consistency in a world that was rapidly changing.” She also called it a “godsend.” The theme of the event – “Fashion in a New Light” – was created by longtime show director/choreographer Myron Johnson, who
celebrated his 27th year in this position. My friend and VP of media relations and cause marketing for Macy’s North & Midwest Regions, Andrea Schwartz, said the next Glam planning begins the minute the last one ends. Her PR ladies (who include Lauren Rapisand and Liz Kores) had a huge task this night and executed it with perfection although the door people were more than a little
tough this year. I guess this is a necessary evil for such a big event that everyone and their brother tries to crash. (More than 350 press credentials were issued for the four-city tour!) In any case, the evening kept everyone on the edge of
their seats with excitement from beginning to end. More than 100 outfits were showcased on the runway on 42 stunning models that travel from city to city for the event. The show was first seen in Minneapolis,
came to Chicago and went on to L.A. and San Francisco. It requires seven days of rehearsal and more than 10 hours of model fittings. The show uses 42 computers, 350 lighting fixtures, 12 projectors and
60,000 watts of sound with the backdrop comprised of 80 LED panels! Designs from Tommy Hilfiger started off the show featuring sporty, back-to-school looks that included cropped jeans and letter jackets reminiscent of the Fonz. Jean Paul
Gaultier highlighted chic, metallic puffy vests. (I’m lusting after the silver one with the roll collar so hands off people.) Tallia Orange showed cool, wearable menswear looks a la “Mad
Men”. (Designer Mark Roscoe is a fan.) There were a lot of mixed patterns and Rachel Roy presented blazers, bomber jackets, a hot orange catsuit, floppy hats and sparkly separates. A new line for Macy’s – Maison Jules – debuted this
night showing Parisian-inspired street style with a nod towards Audrey Hepburn (who DOESN’T give a nod towards Audrey?!); I loved the ballet flats with the Birkin-inspired handbags, too. Adult and kid dancers performed in a break-dancing production
number that included futuristic LED lights. I loved seeing crowd favorite Bailey “BailRok” Munoz return and steal the show again. I was so thrilled to interview the star of the show, Sheryl Crow, who is as beautiful on
the inside as she is on the outside. She was stunning in a Yves St. Laurent batwing silk top and skin-tight white jeans with black lace detail. She told me that she has two small boys so supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities
was important to her; she also told me she loves everything about Chicago and always looks forward to visiting. She said she loves the vibe here and the people and then laughingly added the shopping. She is an amazing musician and
played at least three different guitars on this night. She sang songs from her upcoming album, “Feels Like Home” (due out in September), that included “Easy”, her first solo country hit. Sheryl said it’s “about drinking beer in your
backyard”…and I loved it! She ended with my all-time favorite “Every Day is a Winding Road”, at which point, silver confetti rained
down and all of the models came out to dance in the audience. (I was verklempt, talk amongst yourselves for a moment…) The elaborate after-party followed and had more moving parts than a
Ferris wheel. I saw a fashion fortune telling booth, an American Express Wheel of Fortune, Instagram– and prop-filled photo ops, more than a dozen Patron bars, DJ Dan Jordan spinning like a demon, fabulous food, Lancome touch-up stations, a celeb-filled VIP lounge and so much more. This is truly fashion’s night out in
Chicago and I was honored to be there covering it for my Chicago Tribune Candid Candace column and for my Watch312.com internet show “Candid Candace Chicago”…SEE VIDEO BELOW!) I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about it as much as I enjoyed attending and writing about it. I also want to thank WGN Radio’s Steve Cochran Show and Windy City LIVE! for having me on to talk about this much loved and much-anticipated yearly event. (For upcoming Macy’s event and fashion news, click here and for Ronald McDonald House Charities info, click here.) (Photos by Mila Samokhina).

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The Service Club of Chicago hosted its annual Day on the Terrace Fashion Show and luncheon recently at the Peninsula Chicago with a record-breaking crowd of more than 300. This charitable organization, founded in 1890, is one of the oldest in Chicago now celebrating its 123rd year. The
45-minute show featured more than 80 fall looks from retailers that included Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, Vera Wang, Maximilian of Bloomingdale’s, Tom James, Black Tie Formalwear, Burdi, Escada, Intermix, Ralph Lauren and Starr Couture; local designers included Elda de la Rosa and Shalini and vintage looks from Lulu’s on the Avenue added a touch of
fashion history to the show. Members, local celebs and media personalities served as models and included chefs Giuseppe Tentori and
Travis Strickland, Anna Davlantes, Jane Monzures, Rob Johnson, Mary Ann Childers, Bill Zwecker, Fabrice Calmels, Alexi Giannoulias, Ryan Baker, Dan Uslan, J.P. Anderson, John Carroll, D.C.
Crenshaw, Greg Hyder, Rich Gamble, Sherren Leigh, Kim Vatis, Rich Varnes, Stanley Paul and Fabrice Calmels among many others. Co-chairs Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Sheila
O’Grady planned an exciting event this year breaking records in both attendance and funds raised. Chair emeritus Hazel Barr served as fashion show commentator along with show producer Tracey Dibuono and president Vonita Reescer
celebrated her 65th birthday with a surprise cake presentation. Standouts included Sheila O’Grady and Toni Canada (both wearing darling caps and chic designs by Ralph Lauren), Monika
Dixon, Sheree Valukas and first-time Service Club model Elizabeth Queen glowed in glamorous ball gowns by Vera Wang. Evans Scholars escorted models during the Neiman Marcus segment and I was thrilled to wear a beautiful Carolina Herrera cocktail dress. (The long version was worn by Lucy Liu at
the Golden Globes.) One hundred percent of the $40,000 funds raised will go directly to the organization’s grant program, which supports various non-profits in the Chicagoland area. To see ALL of the great event photos by Mila Samokhina, Caitlin Saville Collins and John Reilly Photography, click here and see all of the fun on my Watch312.com video below!)

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Excited fans at Wrigley Field were able to witness former Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood’s return to the mound on August 10th…but this time the game was Wiffle ball and his teammates were a combination of celebrities and media personalities. Wood and wife Sarah
hosted the First Annual Woody’s Wiffle Ball Classic, an all-day sporting event sponsored by Walgreens which began with a sixteen corporate team tournament and ended with a Home Run Derby and celebrity “Wiffle for a Diffle” game. The event raised more than $490K for the Wood Family Foundation. The outfield of Wrigley was divided into four “fields"
(Fenway, Field of Dreams, Wrigley and Yankee) during the day, complete with backdrops and bleachers where corporate teams competed against one another. The tournament began with
Cubs special announcer Wayne Messmer singing the national anthem. Various celebs and local media personalities served as captains and players for participating teams such as Walgreens, United Airlines, InCapital, JP Morgan Chase,
Sloane Valve Corporation, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, Leo Burnett, Hillshire Brands, Field of Dreams/All Star Ballpark Heaven, WinTrust Mortgage, Select Rehab, Chicago Trading Company, Chicago Athletic Club, and Four Corners Tavern
Group. Funnyman Bill Murray jumped in to play in the outfield with the Wintrust Mortgage and Walgreens teams while also working the crowd of Bleacher Bums all day. Leo Burnett “Bad Apples” team had a cheer going all day with former Chicago Bear Steve McMichael at the helm. In the end, it
was the All Star Ballpark Heaven team captained by Matthew Perry that was crowned the “2013 Wiffle Ball Champions” and received the official Woody’s Wiffle Ball Classic trophy. The field was then prepared for the Home Run Derby which was pitched by Wood. (The crowd went
wild seeing Kerry back on the mound!). Participants included Jenny McCarthy, Moises Alou, CM Punk, Derrek Lee, Michael Barrett, Bill Murray and Matthew Perry. Former Cubs Alou, Lee, and Barrett wowed fans but when all was said and done, it was Michael Barrett who won and received the title of Home Run Derby Champion.
“American Idol” winner Lee Dewyze kicked off the celebrity “Wiffle for a Diffle” game with the national anthem followed by Wood Family Foundation scholar recipient Gaby Santoyo throwing out the first pitch. Approximately 70 celebrity players donned in full
throwback baseball uniforms (red and blue) took to their positions on the field and batting line up and the fun began. Emcee Paula Faris (former NBC Chicago sports reporter) announced the batters who came out to their chosen theme song.
(Jenny McCarthy, for example, chose Beyonce’s “Who Runs the World”.) Entertaining moments included: Bill Murray making “Biggest Loser” winner Danni Allen run laps for striking out when at bat, WWE wrestler CM Punk trying to hit the ball with a fold-up chair instead of a bat, Kerry striking
wife Sarah out, and Bill Murray going deep in his first at bat. Chicago Blackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison sang the seventh inning stretch and former Cub Glendon Rusch hit the game-winning grand slam for the Blue team captained by Sarah with Bill Murray as honorary co-captain. “Woody’s
Wiffle Ball Classic was the most fun our Walgreens team has ever had. We are happy to be able to support the Wood Family Foundation and the work they do,” explained Wade Miquelon, CFO for Walgreens. “Training camp starts Monday for the 2014 tournament. We’ll be back!” Celebrities that participated
included Matthew Perry, Bill Murray, Joel Murray (“Mad Men”), Jenny McCarthy, George Wendt (“Cheers”), Adam Rodriguez (“CSI: Miami”), CM Punk (WWE), Mark Moses (“Mad Men”), Josh Charles (“The Good Wife”), Todd Walker (former Chicago Cub), Moises Alou (former Chicago Cub), Michael Barrett (former Chicago Cub), Steve Trout (former Chicago Cub), Ron Harper (former Chicago
Bull), Kristy Swanson (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer”), Kevin Farley, Sarah Colonna (“Chelsea Lately”), Derrek Lee (former Chicago Cub), Aimee Garcia (“Dexter”), Neil Flynn (“Scrubs”), DB Sweeney (“Mountain Men”), Ed Swiderski (“The Bachelorette”), Lee Dewyze
(“American Idol”), Peter Mackenzie (“Hart of Dixie”), Jeff Dye (comedian), Finesse Mitchell (comedian), Jim Cornelison (Chicago Blackhawks anthem singer), Danni Allen (“The Biggest
Loser”), Chris Chelios (former Chicago Blackhawk), Lloyd Eisler (Olympic ice skater), Pat Finn (Marvin Marvin), Eric Gilliland (film director), Lisa Guerreo (“Sunset Beach”), Scott Eyre (former Chicago Cub), Ernie Halvorsen (“The
Amazing Race”), Cindy Halvorsen (“The Amazing Race”), Steve McMichael (former Chicago Bear), Ramon Martinez (former Chicago Cub), Glendon Rusch and Wayne Messmer. Local media personalities
and celebrities that participated included Ryan Baker (CBS Chicago), Lou Canellis (Fox), Ryan Chiaverini (“Windy City LIVE”), Roe Conn (“Roe and Roeper”), Janet Davies (ABC), Anna Davlantes (Fox), Eric Ferguson (“Eric and Kathy”), Brotha Fred (Kiss FM), Megan Glaros (CBS), Jerrod Melman (restaurateur), RJ Melman,
(restaurateur), Kathy Hart (“Eric and Kathy”), Dave Kaplan (Comcast / WGN), Catie Keogh (“24-7 Chicago”), Natalie Martinez (NBC), Pete McMurray (WGN radio), Showbiz Shelly (B96), Dionne Miller (Fox), Jane Monzures (FM101 News), J Niice (B96), Richard Roeper (“Roe and Roeper”), Allison Rosati (NBC),
Tracy Schmidt (Crain’s), Marc Silverman (“Waddle & Silvy”), Sarah Spain (ESPNChicago.com), Rafer Weigel (ABC), Derrick Young (CBS), Kelli Zink (CelebTV.com) and Billy Dec (restaurateur). The Wood Family Foundation (WFF) is a non-profit 501c3 organization that was founded in June 2011 by Kerry and his wife Sarah. The
WFF works to improve the lives of children in Chicago by raising funds for children’s programs and acts as an advocate for the children, inspiring others to join them in their mission of giving kids the resources they need to succeed. For more info about this wonderful organization, visit www.woodfamilyfoundation.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina, Kenny Kim and Collin Pierson).

Speaking of baseball, our very own Mila Samokhina was on hand when Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks, was honored in Wrigley Field recently for his nomination by President Obama with the Medal of Freedom honor! Banks played in 11 All-Star Games and hit more than 500 home
runs in his career; he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. Mila is his official photographer and was on hand in his box to capture these photos. She and her husband Arthur renewed their vows recently in Paris where they attached a love lock with their names
engraved on the Pont de l’Archevêché. (They’ve been married 30 years!) This longtime Paris tradition is spreading throughout Europe even though Mayor Emanuel won’t allow this in Chicago. Locks of love appear on both the Pont des Arts and Pont de l’Archevêché in Paris. Newlyweds Kyla and Tim Smithe have a lock there, too! Awwwwwww…

Mark your calendars for Common Threads’ Third Annual Cook-Off on October 2nd at Fulton’s on the River from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Join 30+ of Chicago’s finest chefs as they compete to raise funds for CT’s culinary programs in Chicago. For tickets ($75) and info, visit CommonThreads.org. AND don’t miss CT co-founder Jesus Salgueiro when he presents his fabulous new art exhibit, “Going Gaga for Love Mandalas,
a prayer for love and all the great things in life” at the Gruen Gallery (located at 226 W. Superior) from 6 to 9 p.m. on September 20th. Event proceeds will benefit Common Threads and the Born This Way Foundation. We love Jesus and his limitless positivity, not to mention his amazing talent! Congrats!

Save the date – September 26th – for the third annual Cocktail Party hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary Board of Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s. Tickets are $150 and include live music and entertainment, top shelf open bar and appetizer buffet. The party will be held in The Back Room (located at 937 N. Rush St.) from 6 to 9 p.m. and will raise funds for the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House where 86 families find care and comfort each night. (For tickets to this sure-to-be wonderful evening, please click here!)

Congrats to Governor Quinn for signing the Puppy Lemon Law on August 17th at Wiggly Field, located at 2465 N. Sheffield Ave. This law will now allow consumers to receive a refund, replacement or reimbursement of veterinary costs for animals purchased with a pre-existing or undisclosed disease or illness. The law will also require pet stores to notify customers and the state veterinarian of a life-threatening outbreak of contagious diseases. While there is obviously never a replacement for a pet, this law will place increased financial pressure on pet stores, which in large part obtain pets from puppy mills. Good job, Governor!

Delivery, a food truck and a chance to win big?! This is what one lucky Chicagoan will win this fall when Giordano’s brings its pizza and their new BIG food truck to your neighborhood! Anyone who orders Giordano’s for delivery between now and September 15th will be automatically entered for the chance to win a block party in his or her neighborhood with Giordano’s food truck! How fun is this? May the best pizza lover win!

“The Steve Harvey Show” wants YOU! If you’re single, a Chicago local and between the ages of 18 and 45, then Steve wants you to join him for a filming of a “Singles Symposium” at Navy Pier on September 7th. This entertaining event will be filled with goodies and surprises – one for the record books, I’m told, so email Jessica Smedick at jessica.smedick@steveharveytv.com ASAP with a photo of yourself!

Thanks so much to WGN Radio’s “The Bill Leff Show” for having me on last week! It was a fun segment with his sidekick Jennifer Stevens – they make a great team and it was a privilege to return to discuss all of Chicago’s hottest parties! Missed my top pics? Listen here!

I can’t wait to attend the South Loop’s 10th annual Bash on Wabash this weekend! This old fashioned street festival will celebrate Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Food Pantry. There will be a wide variety of live musical acts, activities (dunk tank, animal costume contest, mechanical bull riding, etc.), food trucks, a kids’ stage and a ton of local vendors! It all starts at 11 a.m. on August 24th on Wabash Avenue between 13th Street and 14th Place. Hope to see you there! (For more info, click here!)

Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control’s Big Night will include more than 400 animal lovers gathered under the Tiffany Dome in the Chicago Cultural Center on September 26th from 6:30 to 9 p.m. for a great night of food, fun and fundraising. More than a dozen of Chicago’s finest chefs (expertly organized by Executive Chef Jackie Shen) will prepare a tantalizing
array of unique dishes. Phil Stefani’s will serve a variety of fine wines including the signature “Muttinis” to loosen up the crowd and, of course, there will be exciting auction items – from diamonds to doggie treats – to bid on during the silent and live auctions. ABC sports anchor Jim Rose and his beautiful wife Lakesha will emcee the event! (For tickets – $100 pre-sale and $125 at the door – click here.)

The Chicago State University Foundation (CSUF) Board of Directors will host its 19th Annual Circle of Friends event, “Circle of Friends presents An Evening with Smokey Robinson”, on September 19th (which also happens to be Chuck’s birthday)! This scholarship fundraising concert will take place from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. beginning with a Strolling Supper at the CSU Academic Library (located at 9502 S. King Dr.) followed by the one and only Smokey Robinson in concert at the Jones Convocation Center beginning at 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7:00 p.m.) This event is the CSU Foundation’s major fundraiser and proceeds will provide scholarships, technology enhancements and general support for Chicago State University students. Concert tickets range from $50 for general admission seating to $200 for VIP seating that also includes an open bar and appetizers. Sponsorship packages are available as well that include the Strolling Supper reception. Those interested in sponsorships may reach the foundation at 773.995.3839. Visit the CSU website here to purchase tickets.

The Kool-Aid Man came to town recently and I got to meet the big red pitcher – what a thrill to meet a childhood icon! He was in the Windy City doing “Random Acts of Fun” for Chicago area families at the Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo, Wendella Boat Tours and North Avenue Beach. Keep up the “tasty” work, KAM! (Thanks to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting for this “cool” intro!)

Thanks so much to WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” for giving me the privilege of co-hosting its dynamic show last week! Jeanne Sparrow was off to a family reunion and I was so excited to sit in her spot on the couch next to Melissa Forman. I’m telling you, these two make it all look so easy but believe me, it is NOT: A two-hour show with multiple segments and a zillion moving parts is not a simple thing to handle but Melissa and Jeanne certainly make it look effortless. Their team is on top
of every news story and it was awe-inspiring to witness the behind the scenes action. I think I flunked Teleprompter 101 but was thrilled to have this opportunity! Love to Melissa, Jeanne and producer Rob Morhaim and congrats on your fabulous show! (Don’t miss this show every weekday from 6 to 8 a.m. on the WCIU, the U, channel 26!)

I can’t WAIT for this month’s Randolph Street Market on August 24th and 25th at 1350 W. Randolph! This weekend extravaganza will feature a back-to-school theme with more than 250 vendors, fabulous food, cocktails and live music – it’s a block party with benefits…and I’ll see you there! For more info, visit www.randolphsteetmarket.com.

That’s all for now! Hope you tune in next week for more fabulous photos, videos and the hottest event news in the Windy City!

Love as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro on their fourth wedding anniversary! This loving couple announced on their big day that WHEN the Illinois Marriage Equality bill passes, and is signed by the Governor (expected early next year), they will hold a HUGE celebration at Table Fifty-Two and remarry in Chicago to
celebrate the historic occasion. I hope my invite doesn’t get lost in the mail! CONGRATS ART AND JESUS!

P.P.S. Hope you’re enjoying my Candid Candace column every Sunday in the Chicago Tribune! 🙂 Please send me your events for consideration, too!

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