Tag Archives: Art Smith

February 25, 2013 · 10:30 am

POINTE OF DEPARTURE: THE JOFFREY BALLET’S “ARTFUL” AFFAIR

…PLUS SHELLEY MACARTHUR HOSTS JOFFREY VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY; VAL AND JEFF’S “HEARTFELT” NIGHT; CHEF ART AND JESUS WANT “JUSTICE FOR ALL”; FOUNDERS FIRED UP (A FREE EVENT); SPRING FASHION SHOWS; A NEW SHOW FOR WATCH312; GIORDANO CELEBRATES 50; A PHOTO SURPRISE FOR KATIE; SAM’S 28TH; COMMON THREADS CELEBRATES TEN; WORLD FESTIVAL RETURNS TO SOLDIER FIELD AND SO MUCH MORE! 
 

1 - Joffrey dancers Temur Suluashvili and Victoria JaianiThe Joffrey Ballet’s Auxiliary Board hosted its third annual Pointe of Departure at the elegant space of Block 37 on February 7th. It attracted more than 200 guests and helped raise $25,000 to support the Ballet’s
2programs and performances. The theme of this year’s event was taken from the title of The Joffrey’s Winter Program, “American Legends,” which features pieces by Jerome Robbins, Twyla Tharp, Gerald Arpino and Stanton Welch. (Arts critic Sid Smith
3 - Artistic Director Ashley Wheater (L) and friendssaid in a recent article that the company is moving into “legendary territory” and I couldn’t agree more!) The
4 - Joffrey Board member Helen Melchior with Executive Dir. Christopher Clinton Conwayevent featured more than 63 pieces of art inspired by the movement of dance and available for sale. Participating artists were encouraged to explore creative interpretations of “American Legends” ranging
5 - The RL team, Chef Ryan Pitts (2nd from L) and GM Rich Varnes (R)from classic examples of American art and dance to famous Americans. The Joffrey Ballet’s Director of Special Events, Herbert Migdoll, selected three finalists for Best in Show and they
6 - Elena Samokhina with her mom, Mila, and her Best in Show Awardincluded beloved photographer Mila Samokhina (“Rehearsal”), John Rush (“Cloven Kingdom”) and fabulous Joffrey dancer, Temur Suluashvili (“Untitled”). The artwork covered the walls of Block 37’s 3rd floor space,
7 - Nicholas Blanc and dancer Derrick Agnolettioverlooking State Street and the Joffrey Tower, appropriately. The night began with a cocktail reception provided by Skinnygirl (helllooo Tom Strehle!), Peroni and St. Germain. Jewell Events
8Catering served a selection of canapés and RL’s Chef Ryan Pitts created mini lobster rolls at an action table on site. The happy art and ballet-loving attendees left with delicious More Cupcakes after dancing the night away to DJ Chicago. The event was expertly co-chaired by Alan Swanke and David Kimball. For more info on Joffrey programming, upcoming events and the Auxiliary Board, please click here! (See all photos by Mila Samokhina here!)


1 - Shelley MacArthur surrounded by her adoring co-chairsAnother FABULOUS Joffrey event, “What is This Thing Called Love,” celebrated Valentine’s Day with beautiful songstress Shelley MacArthur at The Murphy, located at 50 E. Erie. Guests
2 - Alfreda Burke and Rodrick Dixonswayed to the music as this talented vocalist took the audience on a journey through song to discover the power that love brings. Shelley was joined by special guests, opera stars Alfreda Burke and Rodrick
3 - Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietraDixon, along with The City Lights Orchestra conducted by Rich Daniels. The event attracted more than 250 guests who enjoyed a cocktail and hors d’oeuvre reception with a delectable and inspired menu specially designed for the event by distinguished Chef
4 - Amelia and Alejandro SilvaCharlie Trotter. Attendees were also treated to a superb raw bar from Fortune Fish Company featuring an array of lobster, crab and oysters, paired with a sampling of some of the world’s best limited-production vodkas served up by master mixologists. Following the show, guests were invited to a lavish champagne and dessert reception in the lobby of The Murphy and each received a special Valentine’s
5 - Bette Cerf Hill and Bruce SaganDay gift from Vosges Haut-Chocolat. “What is This Thing Called Love” raised more than $210,000 for the organization! Event co-chairs included Shauna Montgomery, Whitney Lasky, Melissa Babcock, Renee Crown, Marty Higgins,
6 - Deborah and Cody EngleJerrilyn Hoffmann, Traci Mansur, Maria Smithburg and Kim White. Guests included Joan Colmar, Toni and Rick Canada, Virginia Bobins, Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway and Floyd Elwell, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sam Kori George, Wendy Irvine, Jim Karas, Kathleen Klaeser, Dino Labot, Donna LaPietra and Bill
7 - Kristina and Mike McGrathKurtis, Cheryl Larsen and Robert Murphy, Lucien LaGrange and Melinda Jakovich, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Phil Lumpkin and Bill Tedford, Dawn Meiners, Jan Melk, Shirley Michels, Dierdre and Steve Nardi, Ken Norgan, Shawna Owen, Ken Price, Amanda
8 - Shelley performingPuck, Sugar Rautbord, Anthony Rossi, Dale Sandro, Michael Shannon, Amelia and Alejandro Silva, Maureen and E.B. Smith, Karen Strumillo, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Rochelle and Charlie Trotter, Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Tina and Jeff Weller and Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Brian Johnson among many others.
9 - Connie and David CoolidgeMore GREAT event news in store for the Joffrey’s much-anticipated and loved “Couture & Cocktails” event: Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway has secured the internationally renowned design team of Badgley Mischka for its 2013 C & C
10 - Renee and Lester Crowndesigners!! I can’t imagine the crowd THIS year! Wow! Since 1995, the Joffrey Ballet has been Chicago’s own classical ballet company, reaching more than 150,000 people annually through its performances, classes and outreach initiatives. Just over
11 - Karen Gray and Rick Kashfour years ago, the Joffrey moved into its first permanent home, Joffrey Tower, at the corner of State and Randolph streets, in the heart of Chicago’s revitalized theater district, reinforcing its
12 - Randy and Steve Fifieldcommitment to Chicago and taking its place amongst the city’s preeminent cultural institutions. Joffrey Tower, with its 52,000 square feet of space, is home not only to the Joffrey’s world-class company of dancers, but has become a family center for dance in the north loop, dedicated to nurturing young talent while also promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of classical ballet. (Thanks to Bob Carl for the photos!)


1 - Val Warner and Jeff Cartwright in Smile BoothThe penthouse at Hotel 71 was packed with friends and family who turned out to wish Windy City Live's Val Warner, and her longtime love, handsome Jeff
Jeff surrounded by friendsCartwright, a life filled with happiness at their recent engagement party. A Perfect Event's Debi Lilly had created, well, a perfect event: A charming cupcake bar, ice cream, popcorn and donut stands as well as
Val and Ryan having some fun while Jeff looks on! Cute!a delightful Smile Booth all helped to make the evening enchanting and DJ Vince Adams had guests line dancing well into the night while the specialty cocktails flowed. Before coming to
Hotel 71 GM Steve Shern and A Perfect Event’s Debi LillyChicago in 2005, Valerie spent five years as primary evening anchor and reporter for WEYI-TV in Flint, Mich. While there, she was very active in the community mentoring young people and speaking at schools. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Valerie's family roots are here in Chicago (South Holland) – her children, Zoe and Max, are her primary focus as well as her darling grandmother, mom and sister. I met Val when she was still working at WGN-TV and even then her energy and
President-GM of ABC-7 John Idler and his cute wifecharm were off the charts. And, as WCL's executive producer Marlaine Selip once told me, "She is lightning in a bottle" …and her legion of fans couldn't agree
WCL’s Jessie Kalin and friendmore. When I asked Jeff what he loved most about his Val, he said, "Even with all of her many successes, she still remains the same person." On this night, clad in a sexy low-backed black cocktail dress surrounded by admirers, Val looked every inch the star that she is. I feel very lucky to know them both. Here's to a lifetime of happiness, Val and Jeff! (To see all event pics, please click here!)


1Chicago-based nonprofit Common Threads is proud to announce its 10th anniversary!!! To celebrate, the organization is holding the 7th Annual World Festival at Soldier Field’s United Club on March 4th from 6-9 p.m. Founded in 2003 by beloved, celebrated chef
2 - Chef Art and Gail Simmonsand restaurateur Art Smith and his partner, artist Jesus Salgueiro, with founding chief executive officer Linda Novick O’Keefe, Common Threads has been teaching school-based nutrition and health education programs to underserved communities in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Palo Alto and Washington, D.C. for 10 years. This year’s World Festival Chicago will feature dishes and participation by such top chefs as: Girl & the Goat’s Stephanie Izard, Mercadito’s
3 - Executive director Linda Novik O’ Keefe and Small Thread JaiPatricio Sandoval, Boka’s Carl Shelton, Socca’s Roger Herring, Paris Club’s Alex Ageneu, Tavernita’s Greg Bastien, Belly Q, Urban Belly and Belly Shack’s Bill Kim, Table 52’s Rey Villalobos, Prasino’s Riley Huddleston, among many others. Be sure to come HUNGRY! “World Festival is an example of the power of the chef community,” said O’Keefe. “It shows us that growth is unlimited when you work together
4 - Chilli Pepper and Chef Rick Bayless at a previous WFand these chefs have rallied from around the world in support of Common Threads and our greater mission – to educate children on the importance of nutrition and physical wellbeing, all while fostering an appreciation of cultural diversity through cooking.” The event kicks off with
5 - Small Threads at a Common Threads cooking classan exclusive VIP trolley ride hosted by Food & Wine editor in chief and Bravo’s "Top Chef" judge Gail Simmons. For $1,000, a limited number of generous and epicurean guests will board a Chicago trolley with Simmons and a few surprise
7 - Gail Simmons and Todd Hatoff at a previous WFchefs that will land at Kendall College, where students from Common Threads’ Small Threads classes will prepare a chef-led meal before heading to Soldier Field for the main event. General admission tickets are $250 and World
6 - Chef Ryan Poli and friends at a previous WFFestival VIP tickets are $500. The evening will feature a live fund-a-need auction, with all proceeds going directly to Common Threads programs. Common Threads is also conducting a silent online auction thru March 12th. Click here to participate! I’m proud to be co-chairing this event with Hillshire Farm’s Jon Harris and Beam’s Mindy MacKenzie. Hope to see YOU there!
 

1 - Gala co-chairs Jesus Salgueiro and Chef Art Smith with the MayorGovernor Pat Quinn declared "a historic week in Illinois" and on Valentine’s Day, it became just that when the Illinois Senate passed the Religious Freedom and Marriage
2 - Governor Pat Quinn (center) with gala supportersFairness Act on a vote of 34-21. (If the bill becomes law, Illinois will become the 10th state to allow same-sex couples to marry and Gov. Quinn will become the sixth consecutive Catholic
3 - Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov and Freedom Award recipientgovernor to sign marriage equality legislation). At the recent Equality Illinois Justice for All Gala, co-chaired by Chef Art Smith and his partner/husband Jesus Salgueiro, Quinn issued a call to arms for supporters of the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. “This year
4 - Zachary Barnett, Kinley Preston and Charlie Rice-Minosowe're going to pass and make a law called marriage equality in Illinois,” Gov. Quinn said. “When people band together and work together using the power of democracy, we can make sure we pass a landmark law. And I hope everybody
5 - Rob LoPrete with partner David Germaine, Sean Lewis, friend and Tom Skillingworks together in these next few weeks so we get the votes in the Senate (we did), to get the votes in the House, and make history in Illinois.” On the night of February 9th in the Chicago Hilton, the biggest black-tie gala for
6 - Equality Ill. Board member Christina Kahrl, Governor Quinn and Cook County Board Prez Toni PreckwinkleLGBT equality in the Midwest was a combination celebration of the coming vote and a call to action. “To all those who said ‘it’s not gonna happen,’ it is happening,” Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov told the crowd. “The
7 - Congressman Mike Quigley, Brandon Neece, Gabriel Madeira and Grant Gonchnauerfreedom to marry is unstoppable; in the Land of Lincoln, it is inevitable!” The bill has been endorsed by more than 300 members of the clergy and top Illinois business leaders and according to polls, the freedom to marry has the support of a majority of Americans and a majority of
8 - Art and Jesus with rugby star Ben Cohen (L) and Equality Ill. Founder Art JohnsonIllinoisans. In addition to Quinn, gala attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who is part of the national group Mayors for the Freedom to Marry. Scores of other federal, state and local officials attended the event,
9 - Debra Shore, Kelly Cassidy and Kelly Quinnincluding U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, Lt. Gov Sheila Simon, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Illinois Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka, Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, Cook County Board President
10 - Jesus Salgueiro and Chef Art with Real Housewives of NJ cast members Rich Lane and Jamie LauritaToni Preckwinkle, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez and the bill’s legislative sponsors, state Senator Heather Steans and State Rep. Greg Harris. Among the 1,200+ attending guests, the organization hosted local business leaders who included Hillary and
11 - Hillary Wirtz (L) and friendDanny Wirtz, Col. James Pritzker, Laura Ricketts, and other Chicago notables. At the gala, Senator Steans was honored with the Equality Illinois Freedom Award for her indefatigable work on behalf of equality. Equality Illinois also recognized United Airlines with the Business Leadership Award for the company’s long history of commitment to the LGBT community. (Photos by Mystic Images Photography).


Founders Fired Up inviteTwelve of Chicago’s non-profit founders get four minutes on the mic to tell their stories at “Founders Fired Up” on April 11th from 6-9 p.m. Emceed by Immerman Angels founder Jonny Immerman, the event will feature Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Jenna Benn (Twist Out Cancer), Kathleen Casey (Bear Necessities), Israel Idonije (Israel Idonije Foundation), Jackson Kaguri (The Nyaka Aids Orphan Project), Colleen Kisel (Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Fndtn.), Cathy Krieger (The Children’s Place), Diane Latiker (Kids Off the Block), Jeff Nelson (ONEGOAL), Reveca Torres (Backbones) and Immerman. This night at John Barleycorn (located at 149 W. Kinzie) promises to be an evening of celebration, inspiration and enlightenment and is FREE to the public (with a cash bar). I hope to see you there!


Amanda St. Augustine's inviteThe Fashion Show Production class at the Illinois Institute of Art- Schaumburg is hosting its annual fashion show, Awakening, at the Meadows Club (2950 W. Golf Rd.) in Rolling Meadows, Ill., on March14th beginning at 7 p.m. All proceeds will benefit Women
Amanda St, Augustine (L) and cute friend.At Risk International, an organization that helps women in more than 30 different countries, including the United States, who have been trafficked or are at risk of being trafficked. Help them “Create a Circle of Protection & Hope Around Women at Risk.” For more information about this charity, visit www.warinternational.org and for more information about the show please contact Amanda St. Augustine at aaugustine2@gmail.com.


Giordano 50th anniversary inviteGiordano Dance Chicago will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a concert and gala celebration on March 23rd at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Following the performance, a celebration will take place on the stage of the Pritzker Pavilion overlooking Millennium Park. Tickets are $200 per person but the $500 VIP Signature Experience will include
Neal Steiner and Kip Helversonan in-the-wings champagne toast, a back-stage buffet and conversation with artistic director Nan Giordano, honorary chair Pam Crutchfield and choreographer/honorary artistic chair Liz Imperio. My friend Kip Helverson, who has a long history with this dance company, has been invited to perform! This alone will be worth the price of admission! The troupe is featured on this month’s Dance Magazine cover, too! I can’t wait and hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please click here! 


Gear Grinders logoI’m so excited for a brand new show coming to Watch312.com! “Gear Grinders,” hosted by John Basile and Kyle DePersia with segments by Hersey Mallory, promises to be the end-all, be-all car show! I know these guys are huge gear heads and really know their stuff so “Top Gear” better watch out! Stay tuned for their
With co-hosts John Basile and Kyle DePersiapremiere episode of the Chicago Auto Show’s hits and misses. I was honored to be their first guest! Good luck guys! Also, “Candid Candace Chicago” can now be seen on Watch305.com!! Founder Bob Mills has expanded programming so now you can see the latest news from Chicago AND Miami! 

Beloved girlfriend Katie McLenaghan received a very special surprise 40th birthday gift from talented photographer/friend Lori Allen. Lori shot 28 of Katie’s dearest friends for a very unique photo shoot, dressed them all in white and created a dramatic montage starring Katie as the Lady in Red! Katie said, “When Lori showed me the photos of all of my glamorous, gorgeous, gifted and generous girlfriends, I was floored!!! I still cannot believe that our dear friend Lori Allen conceptualized and executed this amazing shoot as her gift to me. How spoiled are we to not only have such a beautiful and kind friend but one that is the talented photographer that she is?”


Photo in larger sizeThe photo included adoring girlfriends Kerry and Sally Shorr, Carey Isom, Jennifer Rexroat Lavin, Dr. Hasen, Fadila Zec, Carla Frangella, Annette Isom, Sarah Zeller, Margaret O’Connor, Julianne Glatz, Cindy Burns, Rachel DeMarte, Mary Long, Julie Darling, Sonya Jackson, Frances Renk, Sylvia Perez, JoeAnna LaCourse, Heather Murphy, Jennifer Sutton, Katie, Lori and me! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, dear Katie – we are all SO lucky to have you in our lives! (To contact Lori Allen and find out what she can create for YOUR special moments, please email her at laphotodesigns@aol.com.)


With Mark, Tim and Walter SmitheThe Smithe brothers (Tim, Walter and Mark), known across Chicago for their witty and memorable Walter E. Smithe television commercials and extensive inventory of stylish and well-made furniture are at it again, this time inviting Billy Corgan and his Resistance Pro wrestling company to join in their commercial hijinks, which can be seen below. Corgan may be best known as the Smashing Pumpkins’ singer/songwriter but he’s not OK with smashing just anything. In the commercial, Corgan humorously saves a bar chair by beloved Chicago furniture retailer Walter E. Smithe from a royal crushing. “I am proud of Resistance Pro’s growing popularity,” says Corgan. “Tim Smithe and his brothers presented us with the opportunity to share our brand. I’m grateful
Billy Corgan with live auction winners at PAWS Fur Balllto the Smithe brothers for their $50,000 donation to PAWS, a charity that is important to me.” (Corgan has helped raise more than $140,000 for PAWS this year!) Why musical chairs in a wrestling ring, you ask? Corgan is the creative director of Chicago-based Resistance Pro wrestling company – a partnership between Corgan and brothers Jacques and Gabriel Baron. The commercial will officially air on TV soon.

 


Stanley Paul with Bette Davis at the Pump RoomI hope you will save April 24th, when I’ll be honored by The Stanley Paul Foundation/Apparel Industry Board at the Casino on Delaware. Tickets are $200 and will benefit the Stanley Paul/Raelene Mittelman Fashion Design Scholarship Fund, which was established in 1990 by Stanley Paul in honor of his sister, Raelene Mittelman, who was a great lover of fashion and had a strong belief that we must aid the future of fashion by aiding in the education of its students. The scholarships are awarded annually to students from greater Chicago and/or Illinois who are enrolled in a Chicago college that has a fashion design program. I’m honored and humbled by this recognition and hope you can join me! (For tickets and more info, please call 312.836.1041 or email aibi@aibi.com.)


Fashion-wars-mini-me-cropped-1_bigIt’s all about the kids for the “Mini Me Fashion Show” coming March 10th. Presented by Fashion Wars (Kesha Wilson), this is a total kid’s production from top to bottom with child models and even stylists! This fun competition teaches hands on training in the world of fashion with designers who include Andre Swanson, Derricka Cole, Rachel Spencer, Lande Sanusi, Anne Marie and Kia Hall. In addition to the runway show, the event will feature many on-site vendors, including children’s boutiques, activity stations and interactive games with a silent auction benefitting RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). For tickets ($40 includes adult and child) please click here! The event will be held at Lacuna Fitness, located at 645 N. Clark.   


Write-what-you-love1Thanks for reading Candid Candace and if you have any comments or suggestions, please let me know! I write for YOU! 

Love, as always,
Candace 🙂
Candace@CandidCandace.com


Nikki Borys (L), Samantha Amato and Cristina SotoP.S. I celebrated my beloved goddaughter’s 28th birthday recently with her and mom, Rhonda Sanderson, at the Pump Room. Samantha Amato grows more beautiful by the day and I’m so lucky to have her and her mother in my life! Happy Birthday, Sam! Love you!

Pointe of Departure:  The Joffrey Ballet’s “Artful” Affair
…Plus Shelley MacArthur hosts Joffrey Valentine’s Day party; Val and Jeff’s “heartfelt” night; Chef Art and Jesus want “Justice for All”; Founders Fired Up (a free event); spring fashion shows; a new show for Watch312; Giordano celebrates 50; a photo surprise for Katie; Sam’s 28th; Common Threads celebrates TEN; World Festival returns to Soldier Field and so much more! 
 
The Joffrey Ballet’s Auxiliary Board hosted its third annual Pointe of Departure at the elegant space of Block 37 on February 7th. It attracted more than 200 guests and helped raise $25,000 to support the Ballet’s programs and performances. The theme of this year’s event was taken from the title of The Joffrey’s Winter Program, “American Legends,” which features pieces by Jerome Robbins, Twyla Tharp, Gerald Arpino and Stanton Welch. (Arts critic Sid Smith said in a recent article that the company is moving into “legendary territory” and I couldn’t agree more!) The event featured more than 63 pieces of art inspired by the movement of dance and available for sale. Participating artists were encouraged to explore creative interpretations of “American Legends” ranging from classic examples of American art and dance to famous Americans. The Joffrey Ballet’s Director of Special Events, Herbert Migdoll, selected three finalists for Best in Show and they included beloved photographer, Mila Samokhina (“Rehearsal”), John Rush (“Cloven Kingdom”) and fabulous Joffrey dancer, Temur Suluashvili (“Untitled”). The artwork covered the walls of Block 37’s 3rd floor space, overlooking State Street and the Joffrey Tower, appropriately. The night began with a cocktail reception provided by Skinnygirl (helllooo Tom Strehle!), Peroni and St. Germain. Jewell Events Catering served a selection of canapés and RL’s Chef Ryan Pitts created mini lobster rolls at an action table on site. The happy art and ballet-loving attendees left with delicious More Cupcakes after dancing the night away to DJ Chicago. The event was expertly co-chaired by Alam Swanke and David Kimball. (For more info on Joffrey programming, upcoming events and the Auxiliary Board, please click here! http://www.joffrey.org)

Another Joffrey event, “What is this Thing Called Love,” celebrated Valentine’s Day with beautiful songstress Shelley MacArthur at The Murphy, located at 50 E. Erie. Guests swayed to the music as this talented vocalist took the audience on a journey through song to discover the power that love brings. Shelley was joined by special guests, opera stars Alfreda Burke and Rodrick Dixon, along with The City Lights Orchestra conducted by Rich Daniels. The event attracted more than 250 guests who enjoyed a cocktail and hors d’oeuvre reception with a delectable and inspired menu specially designed for the event by distinguished Chef Charlie Trotter. Attendees were also treated to a superb raw bar from Fortune Fish Company featuring an array of lobster, crab and oysters, paired with a sampling of some of the world’s best limited-production vodkas served up by master mixologists. Following the show, guests were invited to a lavish champagne and dessert reception in the lobby of The Murphy and each received a special Valentine’s Day gift from Vosges Haut-Chocolat. “What is This Thing Called Love” raised more than $210,000 for the organization.  Event co-chairs included Shauna Montgomery, Whitney Lasky, Melissa Babcock, Renee Crown, Marty Higgins, Jerrilyn Hoffmann, Traci Mansur, Maria Smithburg and Kim White. Guests included Joan Colmar, Toni and Rick Canada, Virginia Bobins, Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway and Floyd Elwell, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sam Kori George, Wendy Irvine, Jim Karas, Kathleen Klaeser, Dino Labot, Donna LaPietra and Bill Kurtis, Cheryl Larsen and Robert Murphy, Lucien LaGrange and Melinda Jakovich, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Phil Lumpkin and Bill Tedford, Dawn Meiners, Jan Melk, Shirley Michels, Dierdre and Steve Nardi, Ken Norgan, Shawna Owen, Ken Price, Amanda Puck, Sugar Rautbord, Anthony Rossi, Dale Sandro, Michael Shannon, Amelia and Alejandro Silva, Maureen and E.B. Smith, Karen Strumillo, Robin and Mark Tebbe, Rochelle and Charlie Trotter, Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Tina and Jeff Weller and Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Brian Johnson among many others. More GREAT event news in store for the Joffrey’s much-anticipated and loved “Couture & Cocktails” event: Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway has secured the internationally renowned design team of Badgley Mischka for its 2013 C & C designers!!!! I can’t imagine the crowd THIS year! Wow! Since 1995, the Joffrey Ballet has been Chicago’s own classical ballet company, reaching more than 150,000 people annually through its performances, classes and outreach initiatives. Just over four years ago, the Joffrey moved into its first permanent home, Joffrey Tower, at the corner of State and Randolph streets, in the heart of Chicago’s revitalized theater district, reinforcing its commitment to Chicago and taking its place amongst the city’s preeminent cultural institutions. Joffrey Tower, with its 52,000 square feet of space, is home not only to the Joffrey’s world-class company of dancers, but has become a family center for dance in the north loop, dedicated to nurturing young talent while also promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of classical ballet.

The penthouse at Hotel 71 was packed with friends and family who turned out to wish Windy City Live's Val Warner, and her longtime love, handsome Jeff Cartwright, a life filled with happiness at their recent engagement party. A Perfect Event's Debi Lilly had created, well, a perfect event: A charming cupcake bar, ice cream, popcorn and donut stands as well as a delightful Smile Booth (http://smilebooth-midwest.smugmug.com/Smilebooth/val-jeff-engagement/i-ZsPB4TK/0/M/20130215%20Smilebooth%20a237-M.jpg) all helped to make the evening enchanting and DJ Vince Adams had guests line dancing well into the night while the specialty cocktails flowed. Before coming to Chicago in 2005, Valerie spent five years as primary evening anchor and reporter for WEYI-TV in Flint, Mich. While there, she was very active in the community mentoring young people and speaking at schools. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Valerie's family roots are here in Chicago (South Holland) – her children, Zoe and Max, are her primary focus as well as her darling grandmother, mom and sister. I met Val when she was still working at WGN-TV and even then her energy and charm were off the charts. And, as WCL's executive producer Marlaine Selip once told me, "She is lightning in a bottle" …and her legion of fans couldn't agree more. When I asked Jeff what he loved most about his Val, he said, "Even with all of her many successes, she still remains the same person." On this night, clad in a sexy low-backed black cocktail dress surrounded by admirers, Val looked every inch the star that she is. I feel very lucky to know them both. Here's to a lifetime of happiness, Val and Jeff!

Chicago-based nonprofit Common Threads is proud to announce its 10th anniversary!!! To celebrate, the organization is holding the 7th Annual World Festival at Soldier Field’s United Club on Monday, March 4th from 6-9 p.m. Founded in 2003 by beloved, celebrated chef and restaurateur Art Smith and his partner, artist Jesus Salgueiro, with founding chief executive officer Linda Novick O’Keefe, Common Threads ha
s been teaching school-based nutrition and health education programs to underserved communities in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Palo Alto and Washington, D.C. for 10 years. This year’s World Festival Chicago will feature dishes and participation by such top chefs as: Girl & the Goat’s Stephanie Izard, Mercadito’s Patricio Sandoval, Boka’s Carl Shelton, Socca’s Roger Herring, Paris Club’s Alex Ageneu, Tavernita’s Greg Bastien, Belly Q, Urban Belly and Belly Shack’s Bill Kim, Table 52’s  Rey Villalobos, Prasino’s Riley Huddleston, among many others. Be sure to come HUNGRY! “World Festival is an example of the power of the chef community,” said O’Keefe. “It shows us that growth is unlimited when you work together and these chefs have rallied from around the world in support of Common Threads and our greater mission – to educate children on the importance of nutrition and physical wellbeing, all while fostering an appreciation of cultural diversity through cooking.” The event kicks off with an exclusive VIP trolley ride hosted by Food & Wine editor in chief and Bravo’s Top Chef judge Gail Simmons. For $1,000, a limited number of generous and epicurean guests will board a Chicago trolley with Simmons and a few surprise chefs that will land at Kendall College, where students from Common Threads’ Small Threads classes will prepare a chef-led meal before heading to Soldier Field for the main event. General admission tickets are $250 and World Festival VIP tickets are $500. The evening will feature a live fund-a-need auction, with all proceeds going directly to Common Threads programs. Common Threads is also conducting a silent online auction thru March 12th. Click here to participate! (www.charitybuzz.com/CommonThreads) I’m proud to be co-chairing this event with Hillshire Farm’s Jon Harris and Beam’s Mindy MacKenzie. Hope to see YOU there!
 
Governor Pat Quinn declared "”an historic week in Illinois” and on Valentine’s Day, it became just that when the Illinois Senate passed the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act on a vote of 34-21. (If the bill becomes law, Illinois will become the 10th state to allow same-sex couples to marry and Gov. Quinn will become the sixth consecutive Catholic governor to sign marriage equality legislation). At the recent Equality Illinois Justice for All Gala, co-chaired by Chef Art Smith and his partner/husband Jesus Salgueiro, Quinn issued a call to arms for supporters of the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. “This year we're going to pass and make a law called marriage equality in Illinois,” Gov. Quinn said. “When people band together and work together using the power of democracy, we can make sure we pass a landmark law. And I hope everybody works together in these next few weeks so we get the votes in the Senate, to get the votes in the House, and make history in Illinois.” On the night of February 9th in the Chicago Hilton, the biggest black-tie gala for LGBT equality in the Midwest was a combination celebration of the coming vote and a call to action. “To all those who said ‘it’s not gonna happen,’ it is happening,” Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov told the crowd. “The freedom to marry is unstoppable; in the Land of Lincoln, it is inevitable!” The bill has been endorsed by more than 300 members of the clergy and top Illinois business leaders and according to polls, the freedom to marry has the support of a majority of Americans and a majority of Illinoisans. In addition to Quinn, gala attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who is part of the national group Mayors for the Freedom to Marry. Scores of other federal, state and local officials attended the event, including U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, Lt. Gov Sheila Simon, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Illinois Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka, Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez and the bill’s legislative sponsors, state Senator Heather Steans and State Rep. Greg Harris. Among the 1,200+ attending guests, the organization hosted local business leaders who included Hillary and Danny Wirtz, Col. James Pritzker, Laura Ricketts, and other Chicago notables. At the gala, Senator Steans was honored with the Equality Illinois Freedom Award for her indefatigable work on behalf of equality. Equality Illinois also recognized United Airlines with the Business Leadership Award for the company’s long history of commitment to the LGBT community. (www.eqil.org)

Twelve of Chicago’s non-profit founders get four minutes on the mic to tell their stories at “Founders Fired Up” on April 11th from 6-9 p.m. Emceed by Immerman Angels founder Jonny Immerman, the event will feature Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Jenna Benn (Twist Out Cancer), Kathleen Casey (Bear Necessities), Israel Idonije (Israel Idonije Foundation), Jackson Kaguri (The Nyaka Aids Orphan Project), Colleen Kisel (Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Fndtn.), Cathy Krieger (The Children’s Place), Diane Latiker (Kids Off the Block), Jeff Nelson (ONEGOAL), Reveca Torres (Backbones) and Immerman. This night at John Barleycorn (located at149 W. Kinzie) promises to be an evening of celebration, inspiration and enlightenment and is FREE to the public (with a cash bar). I hope to see you there!

The Fashion Show Production class at The Illinois Institute of Art- Schaumburg is hosting its annual fashion show, Awakening, at the Meadows Club (2950 W. Golf Rd.) in Rolling Meadows, Ill., on March14th beginning at 7 p.m. All proceeds  will benefit Women At Risk International, an organization that helps women in more than 30 different countries, including the United States, who have been trafficked or are at risk of being trafficked. Help them “Create a Circle of Protection & Hope Around Women at Risk.” For more information about this charity, visit http://www.warinternational.org  and for more information about the show please contact Amanda St. Augustine at aaugustine2@gmail.com. Local Chicago fashion designers and industry professionals will come together for the annual Spring Awakening Fashion Show on March 20th from 6-10 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Conservatory to support Chicago Gateway Green. Hosted and produced by handsome Benjamin Cottrell, VIP guests will enjoy exclusive runway seating, light bites and a private champagne reception from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. while strolling through the gardens listening to the melodic sounds of the Candid Concert Opera. After the show, guest will be treated to a pop-up boutique where they will be able to meet the designers from the show and shop their ready-to-wear merchandise and place orders with the designers. A cash bar will be available all night with drink specials.  For tickets and more info, please email benjamin@benjamincottrelldesigns.com or click here! (http://www.facebook.com/events/120462988134937/?ref=notif&notif_t=plan_user_joined)

Giordano Dance Chicago will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a concert and gala celebration on March 23rd at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Following the performance, a celebration will take place on the stage of the Pritzker Pavilion overlooking Millennium Park. Tickets are $200 per person but the $500 VIP Signature Experience will include an in-the-wings champagne toast, a back-stage buffet and conversation with artistic director Nan Giordano, honorary chair Pam Crutchfield and choreographer/honorary artistic chair Liz Imperio. My friend Kip Helverson, who has a long history with this dance company, has been invited to perform! This alone will be worth the price of admission! The troupe is featured on this month’s Dance Magazine cover, too! I can’t wait and hope to see you there!  For tickets and more info, ple
ase click here! http://www.giordanodance.org/50thanniversarycelebration.html

I’m so excited for a brand new show coming to Watch312.com! “Gear Grinders,” hosted by John Basile and Kyle DePersia with segments by Hersey Mallory, promises to be the end-all, be-all car show! I know these guys are huge gear heads and really know their stuff so “Top Gear” better watch out!  Stay tuned for their premiere episode of the Chicago Auto Show’s hits and misses. I was honored to be their first guest! Good luck guys! Also, “Candid Candace Chicago” can now be seen on Watch305!! Founder Bob Mills has expanded programming so now you can see the latest news from Chicago AND Miami! (www.Watch312.com, http://www.Watch305.com )

Beloved girlfriend Katie McLenaghan received a very special surprise 40th birthday gift from talented photographer/friend Lori Allen. Lori shot 28 of Katie’s dearest friends for a very unique photo shoot, dressed them all in white and created a dramatic montage starring Katie as the Lady in Red! Katie said, “When Lori showed me the photos of all of my glamorous, gorgeous, gifted and generous girlfriends, I was floored!!! I still cannot believe that our dear friend Lori Allen conceptualized and executed this amazing shoot as her gift to me. How spoiled are we to not only have such a beautiful and kind friend but one that is the talented photographer that she is?” The photo included adoring girlfriends Kerry and Sally Shorr, Carey Isom, Jennifer Rexroat Lavin, Dr. Hasen, Fadila Zec, Carla Frangella, Annette Isom, Sarah Zeller, Margaret O’Connor, Julianne Glatz, Cindy Burns, Rachel DeMarte, Mary Long, Julie Darling, Sonya Jackson, Frances Renk, Sylvia Perez, JoeAnna LaCourse, Heather Murphy, Jennifer Sutton, Katie, Lori and me! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, dear Katie – we are all SO lucky to have you in our lives! (To contact Lori Allen and find out what she can create for YOUR special moments, please email her at laphotodesigns@aol.com.)

The Smithe brothers (Tim, Walter and Mark), known across Chicago for their witty and memorable Walter E. Smithe (www.smithe.com) television commercials and extensive inventory of stylish and well-made furniture are at it again, this time inviting Billy Corgan and his Resistance Pro (www.resistancepro.com) wrestling company to join in their commercial hijinks, which can be seen below. Corgan may be best known as the Smashing Pumpkins’ singer/songwriter but he’s not OK with smashing just anything. In the commercial, Corgan humorously saves a bar chair by beloved Chicago furniture retailer Walter E. Smithe from a royal crushing. “I am proud of Resistance Pro’s growing popularity,” says Corgan. “Tim Smithe and his brothers presented us with the opportunity to share our brand. I’m grateful to the Smithe brothers for their $50,000 donation to PAWS (www.pawschicago.org), a charity that is important to me.” (Corgan has helped raise more than $140,000 for PAWS this year!) Why musical chairs in a wrestling ring, you ask? Corgan is the creative director of Chicago-based Resistance Pro wrestling company – a partnership between Corgan and brothers Jacques and Gabriel Baron. The commercial will officially air on TV soon.

I hope you will save April 24, when I’ll be honored by The Stanley Paul Foundation/Apparel Industry Board at the Casino on Delaware. Tickets are $200 and will benefit the Stanley Paul/Raelene Mittelman Fashion Design Scholarship Fund which was established in 1990 by Stanley Paul in honor of his sister, Raelene Mittelman, who was a great lover of fashion and had a strong belief that we must aid the future of fashion by aiding in the education of its students. The scholarships are awarded annually to students from greater Chicago and/or Illinois who are enrolled in a Chicago college that has a Fashion Design program. I’m honored and humbled by this recognition and hope you can join me! (For tickets and more info, please call 312.836.1041 or email aibi@aibi.com.)

It’s all about the kids for the “Mini Me Fashion Show” coming March 10th. Presented by Fashion Wars (Kesha Wilson), this is a total kid’s production from top to bottom with child models and even stylists! This fun competition teaches hands on training in the world of fashion with designers who include Andre Swanson, Derricka Cole, Rachel Spencer, Lande Sanusi, Anne Marie and Kia Hall. In addition to the runway show, the event will feature many on-site vendors, including children’s boutiques, activity stations and interactive games with a silent auction benefitting RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). For tickets ($40 includes adult and child) please click here! (www.fashionwarkids-eorg.eventbrite.com/#) The event will be held at Lacuna Fitness, located at 645 N. Clark.   

Thanks for reading Candid Candace and if you have any comments or suggestions, please let me know! I write for YOU! 

Love, as always,
Candace  
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I celebrated my beloved goddaughter’s 28th birthday recently with her and mom, Rhonda Sanderson, at the Pump Room. Samantha Amato grows more beautiful by the day and I’m so lucky to have her and her mother in my life! Happy Birthday, Sam! Love you!

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June 13, 2012 · 9:39 am

A FANTASY ISLAND FOR FRIENDS OF PRENTICE GALA

 …PLUS BUNKY’S RL BREAKFAST, GIULIANA AND BILL CELEBRATE AT RPM, KEITH MAGEE’S RSA HONOR, SERVICE CLUB’S MAD HATTER LUNCHEON, MAMIE HONORED AT TIFFANY EYE-BANK KICK-OFF, LISA MADIGAN HOSTS AUTHOR RECEPTION, OLD ST. PAT’S WORLD’S LARGEST BLOCK PARTY, SUMMER LOVIN’ SINGLES PARTY AT MCA, LANGHAM NABS JOE AGUILERA AND SO MUCH MORE!


P1040187With a theme like “Fantasy Island,” it was no surprise that this fun-filled and visual feast attracted more than 800 supporters to the 26th annual Friends of Prentice benefit at Navy Pier recently. Co-chairs Erica Goldman, Chris Newton and Stan Pillman outdid themselves in the planning and event Blog 2 - Co-chair Stan Pillman (center), wife Ginger and frienddécor specialist extraordinaire Derrick Taylor created a fantasy world that included something special around every corner. Beginning with the cocktail reception and silent auction, the Digging for Diamonds raffle was a magnet for guests who dug in a giant sandbox for all sorts of “bling” with tiny golden shovels. The raffle Blog 3 - Trina Gordon McCallister, auctioneer Greg Dellinger and Alex Sabbaggiveaway was a trip for two to Mexico. Additionally, guests could contribute to the Giving Tree, a faux palm tree with leaves that could be pulled off to make donations to fund services at the Prentice Ambulatory Care Center, which Blog 4 - Ross and Suzie Glickman, Paula Fasseas and Dr. Steven Strykerprovides pre- and post-natal care to low-income women. The silent auction had hundreds of items where you could find anything your heart desired including tickets to Lollapalooza (which has been sold out for weeks!), tickets to the Ryder Cup (another sold out Blog 5 - Having fun on Fantasy Island!event), tickets to the Kids’ Choice Awards in L.A., John Oates and Lyle Lovett concert tix, restaurant packages (including dinners at Nellcote, Paris Club, A Tavola and more), a Joffrey Ballet package and getaways to Michigan, London, New Hampshire and Ireland. As guests headed into the Grand Ballroom at Blog 6 - John Rijos, his gorgeous wife (R) and glam friendNavy Pier, event planner Derrick Taylor (whose company, Taylor & Company, is owned by co-chair Erica Goldman) had planned some delicious surprises. First of all, partygoers were lei-ed with orchids before entering into a tropical, elegant beach- Blog 7 - Mike and Alex Jacobson (center) with their proud parentsthemed paradise through a tunnel ending with a faux “waterfall” complete with sounds of the ocean. Tables were adorned with five-foot-tall palm fronds, candles and crystal candelabras much to the delight of guests. I was privileged to participate in the live auction portion of the evening with Mary Gallo (Prentice board member Blog 8 - With Bob and Hedwig Golant, Azeeza Khan and Paul Iaconoand account director for global retail leisure and luxury sales with Starwood Hotels) and star auctioneer, Greg Dellinger, aka G-Man. (If you have any events that require the services of an auctioneer, do yourself a favor: he’s your guy!) The live auction included a Blog 9 - Having fun with the beach gift giveawaysnever-before-offered package at the St. Regis NY with a stay in the Tiffany Suite. There was also an amazing Napa Valley wine lover’s package, an Italian dinner package at Piccolo Sogno and a trip to Mexico at the luxurious St. Regis Resort Punta Mita. I was Blog 10 - Girls just wanna have fun!also honored to present a moving video tribute that featured Alex and Mike Jacobson: They had lost twin boys who were born prematurely but the loving care and support they received at Prentice moved them to join the Board in appreciation. (In October, Alex gave birth to a healthy baby boy.) As the pirates moved into the Blog 11 - With Mary Pat Burns, Sheila O’Grady, friend and Sharyl Mackeydancing crowd with gift bags, the great band Maggie Speaks kept the music pumping. What a great night for charity in Chicago! This event raised $1 million to fund groundbreaking research, clinical care programs and advanced educational opportunities at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Prentice Women’s Hospital. To view ALL pics from this amazing evening, please click here!

Blog 1 - Tim Smithe presents baby rocker to RancicsLast week, Walter E. Smithe and Comcast hosted a finale viewing party for Giuliana and Bill Rancic at RPM Italian restaurant with partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman and acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis. Giuliana and Bill Blog 2 - Kathleen Henson, Luis Gomez and Kelly Zinkwarmly greeted guests taking photos with everyone on the Style Network’s flowery red carpet. Excited fans of their show won tickets and a trip to Chicago for the exclusive party through a sweepstakes on the Style Network. Tim Smithe gifted the Rancics Blog 3 - Alison Rosati, Rancics and Rob Staffordwith a custom Walter E. Smithe rocking chair for their new baby, who will be arriving at the end of the summer. After Tim (a father of six!) offered a few words of advice, Giuliana sat down Blog 4 - Shane Talbott (owner of Talbott Teas) with the Rancicsin the chair and Bill jumped on her lap. Giuliana was overheard saying she hadn’t watched much of the finale episode yet which featured the sold-out FabFest event she hosted with breast cancer advocate and Chicagoan, Lindsay Avner of Bright Pink. (The event Blog 5 - Bill and Giuliana with Larry Wertraised $240,000 for the cause, largely due to Giuliana’s support.) Lindsay and Giuliana were spied excitedly talking about her upcoming baby shower in L.A. The reality duo hinted to another season of “Giuliana and Bill” on Style Blog 6 - With Bill and Giuliana, the IT couple!and joked they were negotiating the baby’s contract. Spotted at the party were Tim Smithe, Mary Astor Smithe, Kathleen Henson, Shane Talbott, Lindsay Avner, Ryan Chiaverini, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Dori Wilson, Tarrah Cooper, Richard Roeper, Erica Strama, Kelly Zink, Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal (co-owners of Luxury Garage Sale), Eric Ferguson (from 101.9 The Mix) and Luis Gomez among many others. (Photos by Jeff Schear and Anjali Pint…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Dusty Stemer (center), chair Sherry Lea Holson (R), and friendThe annual Mad Hatter Luncheon benefitting the Service Club of Chicago filled the elegant Chicago Club on Van Buren with 260 ladies sporting all varieties of chapeaux! Chaired for the second Blog 2 - Mamie Walton, Hazel Barr and Lynn McMahanyear by SC member Sherry Lea Holson, this event also featured private hat collections by renowned designer Raymond Hudd which were on loan from collectors Mary Robak, Iris Sholder and Eia Radosavljevic. While the ladies sipped Blog 3 - Monika Dixon, Julianne Glatz and Kathy O’Malley Picconecocktails and browsed the collection, a panel of judges that included Bill Zwecker, Robin Robinson and Elizabeth Hamel selected winners in various categories. The Most Original hat award went to Blog 4 - Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Sheryl DyerTammy Beeler; the Most Fashionable was worn by Sarena Weil; Best Spring Ensemble was won by Rosa Guidarelli; the Best Fascinator was awarded to Jessica Priego and the Mad Hatter’s Choice was awarded to Hazel Barr. The winners won beautiful hats Blog 5 - Elizabeth Brodsky and Lisa Krausdonated by beloved milliner Loreta Corsetti, Laura Whitlock Millinery, Carlucci Millinery; Jenny Pfanenstiel of Former Millinery and, last but least, Nicole Betti of Gold Coast Couture. SC Prez Blog 7 - Karen Peters and Sally Jo MorrisVonita Reescer welcomed the guests and introduced speaker Jenny Pfanenstiel who delighted the ladies with a lecture on “The Hat Life of Raymond Hudd.” During the presentation, models from Zzazz Productions (Tracy Tarantino) walked throughout the venue wearing the hats Blog 6 - Anne Wallace, Sherren Leigh and Tiffani Kimon display. Each guest received a note holder and pen set and the floral
basket centerpieces were donated and created by Arturo from Lord & Mary Florist of Lake Forest. (Photos by John Reilly Studios…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Cornelia Guest, host Bunky Cushing and Sherrill BodineI’ve never been to RL Restaurant at such an early hour as I did recently for Bunky Cushing’s fourth annual “Early Birds & Bookworms” breakfast but it was sure worth it! The room was packed with Blog 2 - Bill Zwecker, Linda Heister and Stanley Paulbold-faced names waiting to see and hear guest speaker Cornelia Guest. Daughter of fashion icon C.Z. Guest and Winston Frederick Churchill Guest, Cornelia is a polo champion, handbag designer, baker and heir to the Phipps steel fortune. Blog 3 - Dusty Stemer, Lynn McMahan, Kristina McGrath and Toni CanadaHer father was a cousin of Winston Churchill. In 1982 she was named “Debutante of the Year” and “Deb of the Decade” in 1986. Her mother was 1937’s “Deb of the Year” and also the guest Blog 4 - Lynda Silverman, Leslie Zentner, Myra Reilly and Sherren Leighspeaker at Bunky’s first hat luncheon 15 years ago! Besides her remarkable family history, she has made a name for herself in her own right: She is the author of “The Debutante’s Guide to Life” and, on this day, was signing her latest book, Blog 5 - Zarada Gowenlock and Mamie Walton“Cornelia Guest’s Simple Pleasures.” From childhood, Cornelia had an aversion to eating animal products due to her love for all creatures great and small. When her mother became ill, her research steered her toward a cruelty-free diet. In her latest book, she reveals secrets Blog 6 - Melissa Babcock and Kerry Kennedy Mudd with a cute friendshe learned from her parents’ privileged lifestyles as well as her favorite, simple recipes. Her tips on entertaining take the stress out of any meal and, as she laughingly stated during her talk she “is far from a master chef.” The book is organized by seasons with contributions from her favorite chefs, doctors, a veterinarian and other health experts. She charmed the crowd with her self-effacing banter and blonde, Palm Beach good looks and Blog 7 - Marcia Buchanan, Sarena Weil and Dusty Stemerwas on her way to Bloomingdale’s to promote her cruelty-free (made of PVC) and already-popular Hazel Barr and Lori Danielsnew handbag line (under $300) which she launched a year ago. Seen in the crowd were Bill Zwecker, Tom Gorman, Zarada Gowenlock, Hazel Barr, Cornelia’s handsome husband and doggie, Toni Canada, Sherren Leigh, Nina Mariano, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Lynda Silverman, Myra Reilly Dr. Stacie McClane and Mary Lasky(sporting a short new ‘do she cut herself!), Stanley Paul, Lori Daniels, Dusty Stemer (whose cute son, Zac, is working for the Sun-Times now), Mary Lasky, Lynn McMahan, Sarena Weil (carrying a croc Birken similar to the one sawed in half on Dina Eastwood’s reality show “Mrs. Eastwood & Co.”), Blog 8 - Sean Eshaghy (left) and cute friendsDr. Stacie McClane and more. Long may you reign, Cornelia and Bunky! “Early Birds & Bookworms” benefitted the Jane Addams Senior Caucus and was completely underwritten by the Gibson Group…awwwwww, so nice! Even nicer: The breakfast raised more than $20,000 for the Senior Caucus! (Click here for more fun pics.)

Joe Aguilera 54I just can’t wait for the new Langham Hotel to open in Chicago! Slated to open in 2013, it will be a 316-room luxury hotel in one of the city’s most famous downtown riverfront landmarks – a Mies van dere Rohe-designed building at 330 N. Wabash Ave. But the most exciting part of this news is that long time Elysian VP, Joe Aguilera, will be its Director of Sales and Marketing! I adore Joe, as those who know him do, and know he will be a fabulous addition! Currently, 29 member hotels are open or in the pipeline across four continents; to find out where and more info, please visit www.langhamhospitalitygoup.com. I will see YOU soon, Joe, at this sure-to-be elegant spot!

Keith Magee—RSA FellowAnd more kudos are in order for another beloved Chicagoan Keith Magee who is the executive officer of the much-anticipated National Public Housing Museum. On June 7th, he was named as a Fellow to the Royal Society of the Arts of the United Kingdom. “RSA Fellows inspire innovative thinking, enable positive change and support each other to create an enlightened space to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.” – this describes Keith to a T, as he wears his desire to make the world a better place on his sleeve. “I'm just attempting to do what I'm required – as my grandfather has said – for as long as I can remember: ‘You have to pay your rent for taking Blog 2 - Keith Magee speaking at NPHM benefit (pic by Brian Powers)up space on earth.’ And, the resounding message of my father (now deceased), ‘Your wealth will never be determined by what you have in the bank. It will be based on the deposit you made for the next generation.’ So, really, I'm just filling the requirements. :-)” I look forward to seeing and hearing a LOT more about this remarkable man.

Linda O'KeefeIt’s with a heavy heart that I’m announcing the move by Common Threads’ Linda Novick O’Keefe to Austin, Texas. Her husband, Nick, was given an offer he couldn’t refuse from the state of Texas, so of course, the family will follow. However, she will be back every month to monitor her beloved Common Threads, where she will continue to serve as the organization’s executive director. With the world living on computers, we can all do business any
where we like and with Common Threads opening up new facilities across the country, Linda will be smack dab in the middle! Common Threads co-founder Chef Art Smith said, “I think Austin is a very exciting young community where many opportunities exist that could help us grow even more.” I love you LNO and wish you and your beyond-adorable family all the best! See you soon!

BW2logo“Bridal Wave” Season 2 is looking for brides-to-be for the hottest, live online show produced by Kenmore Studios! Audition for a chance to win a $10,000 Kenmore Dream Kitchen by clicking here! “Bringing the wisdom of the world to brides-to-be everywhere on July 13th!”

Blog 1 - Stanley Paul and MamieThe Kick-Off for the upcoming Illinois Eye-Bank Gala (set for Thursday, June 14th) was recently hosted at Tiffany’s by VP Cathy Elward and Group Director Liza Zito along with Peter Latz, the Chairman of the Blog 2 - Suzanne LeMignot, Larisa Kronfeld, Sherrill BodineIllinois Eye-Bank Board. Supporters came out to congratulate Mamie Walton, this year’s Woman of Vision, and Dr. Joel Sugar, the Gift of Sight honoree. Always elegantly attired, on this night Mamie was wearing a simple black Blog 3 - Liza Zito and Hazel Barrdress which highlighted her Tiffany Strawberry pin by Jean Schlumberger on her shoulder. Accompanied by long-time friend Stanley Paul, she greeted guests with that charming British accent and winning smile. Liza Zito welcomed the crowd and Diane Hollingsworth, Executive Blog 4 - Leslie and Bob ZentnerDirector of the IEB, thanked Mamie for her support and presented her with a pair of Tiffany cat-eye shaped sunglasses. The June 14th soiree at the Peninsula, “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” will be emceed by Bill Zwecker. Guests will be transported across the pond to the famed London nightclub, Annabel’s – the exclusive Blog 5 - Mark Roscoe and Kimberly Palmisanomember-only club catering to royalty, celebs and an elite clientele. Guests seen at the Kick-Off party included Myra and John Reilly, Hazel and Warren Barr, Tiffani Kim and Brad Ingram, Dr. David Donnesberger and Claire Kenneally, Rich Varnes and Cynthia King, Tom Segesta, Amy Wimer and Ed Wlodarczyk, Ken Norgan, Charles Hocevar, Suzanne LeMignot, Sherrill Bodine, Vonita Reescer, Larisa Kronfeld, Megan McKinney, John Regas, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern and Helen and Ralph Applegate. For tickets and more info to “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” click here and to view more images from this event, view this gallery!

Blog 1 - Crowd scene at WLBP 2011Don’t miss Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party coming on June 29th and 30th! Headliner is Ben Folds Five with Life House also performing! The WLBP is a Chicago summer tradition supporting Old St. Pat’s many missions including Horizons for Youth, Career Transitions Center of Blog 2 - Having fun at WLBP 2011Chicago and Global Alliance for Africa to name a few. Chicago celebs will be bartending and the food will be awesome! Come out and say hi- to Natalie Martinez, Dean Richards, Ravi Baichwal, Andrea Metcalf, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson, Stefan Holt, Anthony Ponce, Rob Stafford, Marcus Riley, Borris Powell, moi aussi, and many others! For more info, please check out my PSA below!! 

Randolph St. Market AdAmerica’s oldest and liveliest urban antiques market, the Randolph Street Market, will be returning to 1340 W. Randolph on Saturday and Sunday, June 23rd and 24th with more than 250 vendors! There will be plenty of art, fashion, antiques, vintage treasures, decorator finds, food, drinks, music and FUN! Come out and see for yourself! I can’t wait to see what jewelry dealer Ira Scheck brings this time!

Chefs-kick-off-inviteOn Wednesday, June 13th, Vital Bridges is hosting a kick-off party at Studio Paris for their annual Chefs & the City fundraising event. This year, CATC will be held on July 27th at the Ritz-Carlton featuring delicious bites from the city’s best chefs including Ryan Pitts (RL Restaurant), Ryan Poli (Tavernita), Doug Psaltz (RPM Italian), Moosa Reaume (Pump Room) and more! For tickets and more info, please click here!

Summer Lovin' InviteThe Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Chicago magazine will present the 12th annual Summer Lovin’ event on Friday, June 15th, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 7 to10:30 p.m. Auxiliary Board President Laura Beres said, “Our sponsors and the magazine’s featured singles provide Chicago’s young professionals with an unforgettable evening of food, drinks and fun!” NBC 5’s Stefan Holt and Cheryl Scott will be the emcees and Watch312 (Candid Candace Chicago) will be there to cover all the fun! For tickets ($85) and more info, please click here.
 
Wags to Wishes Invite ImageWags to Wishes’ inaugural dinner and auction benefit will be held on Saturday, June 16th, at the Meadows Club, located at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows, Ill. from 6 to10 p.m. This event will benefit Young at Heart Pet Rescue, an organization dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of senior dogs and cats. As the only rescue dedicated exclusively to older animals, they have provided “happily ever afters” for close to 500 senior dogs and cats that would’ve otherwise been euthanized in traditional shelters. For tickets ($65) and more info, please click here!
 
Jodee Blanco and Lisa MadiganCongrats to Chicago author Jodee Blanco, on her latest and very timely book, “Please Stop Laughing at Me.” This book tells her compelling personal story about being bullied as a child. Attorney General Lisa Madigan interviewed Jodee and outlined initiatives taken to counter cyber bullying at Studio Paris at The Paris Club with more than 200 guests in attendance. To order Jodee’s book, please click here.  

Anita and Ken BrownCongrats to my long-time friends from across the pond, Anita and Ken Brown, on their 33rd wedding anniversary! We’ve traveled a lot together and these two lovebirds never age. They have only grown more in love with each other over the years! We love and miss you guys – congrats on your anniversary!

Glamorama-save-the-date-Aug-10Well, this is it for now! Hope your summer is off to a roaring start! Stay tuned for Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party news and more Watch312 videos coming soon! Mark your calendars for the main event on August 10th at the Harris Theatre with Robin Thicke and Karmin benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana! (For more info and tix, please click here.)
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Chicagolicious promoP.S. I was so thrilled to see the premiere of the Style Network’s newest reality show, “Chicagolicious,” in its glorious debut Monday night! I was even more thrilled to find out that my blog and I played such a big role! The show revolved around darling With Howard Godfrey for premiere of Chicagolicioussalon owner AJ Johnson and his cute team trying to find a way to be included on this website! I’ve gotten so many Twitter requests that I can’t believe it and the hits on my blog the following morning were amazing! The power of television – WOWZA! Here’s what AJ had to say about my blog on the show: “Candace Jordan’s blog is The Style Networkthe most important society blog in the country. We have to be mentioned on it if we want to be nationally recognized. If we can get on Candid Candace, we will have lines wrapped around the block for the salon!” Oh, AJ and “Chicagolicious,” how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Thanks SO much for including me and Candid Candace in such big way! Love you, love your show, love that adorable cast! Good luck!

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November 1, 2011 · 12:44 pm

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

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

Blog 1 - Reute, Charles, Caroline and Tara Wegner and Jim FowlerIt’s not often that a black tie fundraiser includes holding baby snow leopards, watching kudus on the dance floor or seeing young kangaroos bounding from table to table in a crowded ballroom but this was Blog 2 - Doodle and her handler Richard Wieseexactly the scene for the Friends of Conservation’s 21st Ball to benefit the wildlife and culture in East Africa. Reute Butler chaired this event and also serves as president of the organization which was founded in 1982 by her mother, Jorie Butler Kent, and Geoffrey Kent. (On this evening, Jorie was receiving the World Blog 3 - Emcee Zoraida SambolinSaver Award, as founder of A & K Philanthropy, in Singapore and couldn’t attend). The FOC’s mission, with core support from Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy and other generous donors, is to join with the local people to support traditional and sustainable ways of living in harmony with wildlife and the ecosystem. Also, they promote Blog 4 - Dr. Wharton Shober, a cloud leopard and daughter Reute Butlerresource and energy efficient solutions to alleviate the effects of climate change and advancing civilization. Their programs and Conservation Clubs also teach the children of the Masai Mara tree planting, bird watching, bee keeping Blog 5 - William Holdeman, Paul Iacono, Neal Steiner and Tom Juffernbruchas well as helping to develop community health projects. FOC also takes a very active role in promoting the overall education in 30 Mara schools. This year alone, the FOC also captured 29 poachers! The quote of the Blog 6 - Scott Lenhart and Fairmont Catering Director Wayne Harthnight came from renowned wildlife expert (and former “Wild Kingdom” star) Jim Fowler: “When you look into the eyes of these animals, you feel a connection. And this is important in encouraging the desire for wildlife conservation.” Fowler brought along his friends from the “Wild Kingdom,” Blog 7 - Marianna Kohl, Sarah Shillington, Chuck and Stephanie-Kraml Suttleas I mentioned above, who definitely brought the point home for the 150 guests this evening. Emcee Zoraida Sambolin introduced Reute by saying, “When you look into her eyes, you see love, heart and a desire to see the world in a better place.” The patron of the organization for the last 23 years, HRH, the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, also sent a message of congratulations: “I am greatly encouraged Blog 8 - Queen of the Kingdom with a fanby the enthusiasm with which you have pursued your work. Your support for projects to preserve wildlife Blog 10 - Jim Fowler with Caroline Wegnerand its habitat has not only benefitted endangered species but also the local communities which depend upon them. We all must redouble our efforts to put economic value on the vital benefits we receive from nature.” He went on to say, “Our work has made a difference but it 10_21a_11_146fbis far from over.” The FOC has been making a difference for 29 years now in the world-renowned Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem, where the largest remaining mammal migration on earth occurs when 1.8 million Blog 11 - Susan and Joe Ahern with familywildebeest follow the new grass after the rains from the Serengeti every year. It is also the home of the largest concentration of the legendary Masai. Women from the tribe had made exquisite beaded jewelry, Blog 12 - Snow leopardsbelts and more for the silent auction on this night that was filled with intoxicating live auction packages, too. Auctioneer David Goodman hammered down trips, donated by Abercrombie & Kent, to Peru for two (that sold for $3K), a South African safari (that sold for $5K), two business class tickets to Blog 13 - A rapt audienceLondon (courtesy of event sponsor American Airlines that sold for $6K), an eight- day journey for two to Turkey ($7K) and a trip to Thailand ($10K). Other unique offerings included a chance to create your own brew, courtesy of Greenbush Brewing Co. Blog 14 - Admiring the wine collection packageowner Scott Sullivan and Fitzgerald’s Gastro-Pub, and a ready-made wine collection consisting of 100 bottles with messages attached from the donors about the wine. (A very Blog 15 - Photog Mila Samokhina with the kangaroosclever auction idea, by the way, that gets all of the supporters involved). Rachael Phillippe, Holly Rothschild, Wendy Sherman and Jessica Swift were the co-chairs for the evening and honorary co-chairs included Reute’s uncle (and creator of Blog 16 - Natasha and Sanjay Sharma“Hair,” the musical), Michael Butler, Jutta and John Maue-Kay, Geoffrey Kent, Kay and Fred Krehbiel and actress Stefanie Powers. Special thanks also went to Dr. Wharton Shober (Reute’s father) and Frank O. Butler Blog 17 - Chuck with bandleader Stanley PaulII (her uncle), who both flew in for the event. The evening was not only for a wonderful caus, but it was a chance to celebrate with party animals and furry animals to the sounds of my favorite bandleader, Stanley Paul. Congrats to Blog 18 - A touching FOC presentationReute, the FOC, long-time supporter Joan Wegner and her family, emcee Zoraida Sambolin and the ever charming, Jim Fowler for bringing these good works and the reasons for them to our attention. Jim Fowler closed the evening by introducing his equally Kuducharming wife: “I was a specialist on wildlife and I’d like you to meet my wife Betsy. I tamed her with the rewards system.” (Thanks also to Richard Wiese for his expert help with Blog 20 - Chuck and Stephanie-Kraml Suttlethe wildlife presentations. If it weren’t for him, the little snow leopard would’ve been a bit more than I could handle on my own! What an incredible evening!) Other supporters seen on the scene included Ken Norgan, Paul Iacono, Neal Steiner, Stephanie-Kraml Sutter, Manuela Hung, Marianna Kohl, Sarah Shillington, Blog 21 - Annabelle Teal, Justin Shaffer and ReuteRebecca Halpern, Tom Hackett, Colleen Remsburg, Denise Foy, Suzie Browne, World War II ace fighter Blog 22 - Bidding on the live auctionpilot Burt Avedon, Tom Juffernbruch, William Holdeman, George Jewell, Susan and Joe Ahern and family, Janice Bergamin, Sandya Dandamudi, Teri Maki, Tom McGuire, Barbara and Alain Wood-Prince, Jill and Ben Wigdor, Brien Comerford, Dana and Stanley Day, Wendy Dunaway and Mike McGonagle, Cindy and Blog 24 - Elegant Masai creations for saleDavid Wigdahl, Betsey Burhams Fowler, Ann Epting, Pamela Lassers, Blog 23Jean Fawcett, Sue Mitchell, Sandra Busse, Norma Cooke and Sean Eshagy among many others. To learn more and/or to donate, please visit www.FriendsofConservation.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and to see the fun for yourselves, enjoy my four- minute video clip on Watch312.com below!)  

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

Blog 1 - Ball co-chairs Jeff Smisek, Dr. Diana Strassmann, Jackie Tilton, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Glenn TiltonMore than 800 guests celebrated at the 31st annual Columbian Ball at the Museum of Science and Industry which raised nearly $2 million this year. This annual event featured the Museum’s “Fast Forward…Inventing the Blog 2 - Max and Jim Farrell, Karen Gray and Susan MorrisonFuture” exhibit and encouraged guests to celebrate today’s leading inventors and inspire innovators of the future. The evening, chaired by Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Tilton, Dr. Diana Strassmann and Jeff Smisek, also celebrated the Museum’s Center for the Blog 3 - Shirley and Walter MasseyAdvancement of Science Education (CASE), which brings interactive science content into the classroom, out to the community, inside special Museum lab spaces and throughout the Museum itself. During the reception, guests interacted with local Chicago Blog 4 - Auction co-chairs, Alison and Dean Chungteens and teachers who participate in this program, giving guests an opportunity to hear first-hand the positive influence it bears. Guests dined on a delicious meal, catered by George Jewell, which paid homage to featured “Fast Forward” inventors: The meal JBS_ColumbianBall2011_0331started with “The Vertical Garden” (dedicated to inventor Dickson Despommier’s Vertical Farm Project), which included honey crisp apple, cranberry, fennel, arugula and goat cheese in a honey-lemon vinaigrette, followed Blog 6 - Desiree Rogers and Eb Burnoughby the “Out of this World” dinner entrees which were inspired by another featured “Fast Forward” innovator Peter Diamandis, chairman and CEO of the X-Prize Foundation and Zero Gravity Corp. and culminated with the dessert from  molecular gastronomy king Chef Homaro Cantu – David and Susan Axelrodhis ACME Bomb was a truffle-like dessert filled with graham cracker and crème that is a more modern take on the s’more. Emcee Bill Kurtis kicked off the live auction, which raised more than $217K, and included two round trip tickets to Hong Kong and four courtside seats plus a behind-the-scenes tour at the 2012 Eileen_and_Jim_O'Connor_(Chicago)U.S. Open Tennis Championship among many other unique offerings. Live entertainment was provided by “Generation: The Sixties Experience.” The Museum of Science and Industry was once the Palace of Blog 9 - Cheryl and Eric McKissack, Shari Runner, Cynthia ChappellFine Arts at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and the Columbian Ball is named after this world-renowned fair. To learn more about Museum events and programming, please visit www.msichicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl and JB Spector…for more photos, please click here!)

Blog 1 - 2011 Aviators Night for Sight CommitteeThe Illinois Eye-Bank brought the luxe life back for the second year with their popular “Aviator’s Night for Sight” event, which was held inside the hangar at Schaumburg Regional Airport. Guests enjoyed a champagne Blog 2 - Ambassador for Vision Anthony Diaz and dad Jaimereception at Chicago’s Crown Plaza Hotel before departing by motor coach to the airport where numerous jets, luxury sports cars, fashion and food were waiting to greet them. Guest mixed, danced and mingled while drinking Grey Blog 3 - Diane and Emily HollingsworGoose specialty cocktails and perusing the gourmet food stations. Spin master DJ RodX got the party started before IEB Executive Director Diane Hollingsworth and event co-chairs Morgan Stogsdill and Franco La Marca took to the stage. After welcoming the Bridget Waltz and Kimberly Palmisanoattendees, they introduced 10-year-old Anthony Diaz, a cornea recipient who was the evening’s Ambassador for Vision. Morgan and Franco ended by sharing, “Our friends and colleagues united through Ambassadors for Vision to raise awareness for the Illinois Eye-Bank’s important Blog 5 - Mark Bell, Kerry Bowler and Marty Vernonmission of restoring sight to the blind.” Next up, a fashion show produced by Kimberly Palmisano, in association with Akira, featured looks from the Monarrez Collection, Villapando, Anabel Salazar, By Chance, Marissa and Jason Senzon, Blog 6 - Co-chairs Morgan Stogsdill and Franco La MarcaFrench Connection, Hudson Jeans and Scott James among others. The evening raised approximately $25K which will be used to continue the work of the Eye-Bank. For more info, please visit www.illinoiseyebank.org. Check out the video fun here! (Photos by Steve Starr.) 

Blog 1 - Jesus Salguiero, Chef Eric Lanlard and Naushab AhmedA big congrats to “sweet” Chef Eric Lanlard! I attended my first “Disco Dessert Tea Dance” held in his honor recently at the super cool Stephen Hamilton Studio, located at 1520 W. Fulton. Hosted by Jesus Salguiero, Naushab Ahmed and Stephen Blog 2 - Boys just wanna have fun!Hamilton, this ‘70s themed party also featured DJ White Shadow, who helped produce Lady Gaga’s hit, “Born this Way.” And speaking of Lady Gaga, Chef Art wasn’t able to attend, even though he was one of the hosts…but a little birdie told me he is in NY working on a Thanksgiving special with Lady Gaga!!! (So long Andy Williams!) Anyway, the guest of honor, darling Chef Lanlard, told me he’s been baking cakes since he was three years Blog 3old! He is a Master Patissier, a two-time winner Blog 4 - Table 52 Pastry Chefs Geovanna Salas and Celeste Campiseof the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Awards AND he has earned himself an international reputation for superlative cakes with an impressive A-list clientele. Along with his cake emporium, Cake Boy in London, Eric also stars in two British TV series Blog 5 - DJ White Shadowwhere he takes the viewer on a journey to his favorite cafes and patisseries of Paris. He is also the author of “Master Cakes” and teaches regular classes at his Southwest London cookery school. WHEW! He is definitely someone you should know. And his recent book, “Cake Boy,” has some of the most scrumptious recipes and photos I’ve seen in a long, long time. Willy Wonka has nothing on Eric! (To purchase “Cake Boy,” please click here and to view more pics, click here!) 

Blog 1Speaking of book news, society expert/author Megan McKinney has just published a riveting story of the country’s first media dynasty, the Medills of Chicago. “The Magnificent Medills” was featured on the COVER of The New York Times Book Review a week or so ago and, as the jacket Blog 2 - Author Megan McKinneyreads, “Printer’s ink raged in the veins of the Medills, the McCormicks and the Pattersons throughout a century, and their legacy prevailed for another five decades – always in the forefront of events, shaping the intellectual and social pulse of America. At the same time, the dark side of the intellectual stardom driving the dynasty was a Blog 3 - Colonel Robert R. McCormickdestructive compulsion that left clan members crippled by their personal demons of chronic depression, alcoholism, drug abuse and even madness and suicide.” There are also many, many people mentioned that we all know, or have heard of, around town. This book is a must-read! Congrats to Megan on this blockbuster! Chicago is quickly becoming the literary capitol of the world! (To purchase “The Magnificent Medills,” please click here!)

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

2011_Gazebo3The Junior League of Chicago will hold its 40th Annual Gazebo Holiday Market on Friday, November 18th, and Saturday, November 19th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St., in the Sidney R. Yates Gallery on the 4th floor. In addition to a full-day of shopping on Saturday, the “Martinis and Mistletoe” preview cocktail party will be held on Friday, November 18th from 7 – 11 PM. Tickets to the party are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Ticket sales from the party and a portion of every purchase will be donated to the JLC’s community projects dedicated to the empowerment of at-risk women and children in the Chicagoland area. (For more info and to purchase event and raffle tickets, please call 312.664.4462 ext. 101 or visit www.jlchicago.org. (Entrance to the Gazebo Holiday Market is free and open to the public on Saturday, Nov. 19th from 10 AM to 4 PM).

Blog 1Will you be meeting friends at Elmo’s on Friday evening, November 4th, for the annual Service Club of Chicago’s black tie gala at the Four Seasons, located at 120 E. Delaware Place? The theme is “A Glamorous Evening at The Club El Morocco” and will be a celebration of this organization’s 121st gala. Founded in 1890, the SC is one of the oldest philanthropic Blog 2 - Co-chairs Dusty Stemer, Toni Canada and Laurie Davisorganizations in the city. Co-chairs Toni Canada, Laurie Davis and Dusty Stemer have planned a night of surprises you won’t soon forget. Emcees for the evening will be Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini of “Windy City Live,” Honorary Chair is Rahm Emanuel and there will be a special performance by Shelley MacArthur Farley. The title of the Gala was inspired by the legendary supper club of the Blog 3 - Emcees Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini‘30s and ‘40s, El Morocco, where the Vanderbilts dined alongside Cary Grant and Marlene Dietrich, where Jackie went as Mrs. Kennedy and Mrs. Onassis, and where infamous playboy Porfirio Rubirosa dallied with Delores del Rio, Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth and Eva Peron. It was also the place where Humphrey Bogart was banned for life! As you can see, we’re in for some good ole Hollywood glamour! So grab your mink boa, a cigarette holder (well, maybe not) and your martini glass because I think we’re in for one wild ride! (For tickets, beginning at $400, and more info, please contact Laurie Davis at 773.404.5858).

Chill-2011_headerInternational wine and culinary event LUXEHOME Chill will be held in LUXEHOME’s showroom in the Merchandise Mart on Thursday, November 10th, Chef Francis Brennanfrom 6 – 8:30 PM. The VIP party will be held from 5 – 6 PM in their Paris Ceramics suite, #146. Hosted by L20 Restaurant and Wine Spectator Magazine, this event will feature premier seafood tastings served by 2008_LuxeHome_SpecialEvents_LrezExecutive Chef Francis Brennan. The main event will feature 40 top chefs and 150 premium wines! Tickets to the VIP Wine Tasting and Reception plus the main event are $175. For the Wine & Culinary Event only, tickets are $85. The VIP event will benefit the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, the Lynn Sage Foundation and the Respiratory Health Association. (For tix and more info, please click here.) You will see LOTS of familiar faces here, I’m sure, thanks to much loved host, Gayle Anthony!

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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October 18, 2011 · 8:16 pm

STELLA FOSTER HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM CHICAGO JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

…PLUS JOFFREY DANCERS' PARTY FROM EMBARC, CHICAGO GOURMET'S GRAND AFFAIR, HECTOR MONARREZ FASHION SHOW, WATCH312.COM'S LAUNCH PARTY PLANS, ANTI-CRUELTY'S FUN FUNDRAISER, MARIANO'S FRESH MARKET ROCKS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Blog 1 - Stella and the GuvThe room was packed with more than 400 adoring fans and friends as the Chicago Journalists Association hosted its largest awards dinner yet for its 72nd annual event. No wonder!!! The Lifetime Achievement Award Blog 2 - Honoree Howard Reich, Pam Becker, Jamey Fadim and Melissa Sage Fadimwinner was none other than Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster! Even Governor Quinn had a hard time reaching the recipient to congratulate her since the crowd was packed wall to wall outside the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza. He said, “She has a lifetime ethic of service Blog 4 - Regina Daniels, Catrice Armstrong and Juanita Jordanand when people want to get the word out, they know where to Blog 3 - Stella and her sister, Jamie Foster Browngo! She’s got a BIG heart!” The CJA annually recognizes journalistic excellence and this year they honored many more deserving recipients. The evening began with Jimmy Damon singing the National Anthem followed by the invocation from Monsignor Blog 5 - Ernest Baker, Linda Johnson Rice and Cherie BakerKenneth Velo. He thanked “all of the journalists because they capture life in a day.” Emcees Karen Jordan and Christian Farr Blog 6 - Diana Scott, George Daniels, Hosea Sanders, Leah Hope and Marion Brookskept the night moving along as the award winners were announced. The CJA Dale Messick/Brenda Starr Award went to Tribune columnist Mary Schmich who shared the honor with artist June Brigman. The Chicago Journalist of the Year Award was presented to the Blog 7 - Tony Preckwinkle, Tony Abruscato, Grant and Margot DePorter and Dutchie CarayTribune’s arts and jazz critic, Howard Reich, who attended with his wife, Pam Becker, an editor at the Blog 8 - N’Digo’s Hermene HartmanTribune. The award for Best Online Journalism went to Roger Ebert, with adoring wife Chaz accepting, for his popular blog. Sister 2 Sister Magazine founder Jamie Foster Brown – and Stella’s real life sister! – introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Estella Mae Foster. She spoke Blog 9 - Ed McElroy and Larry Wertof Stella’s 34-year relationship with the legendary columnist, Irv Kupcinet, as his secretar
y and confidant. She said, “She’s irreverent and sassy and oh boy, is she opinionated. I love how Blog 10 - Merri Dee, Robert Jordan and Robin Robinsonpeople love my sister. From this sister to my sister, this is YOUR night!” After this, the crowd exploded, leaping to their feet to honor this beloved Chicago treasure. She said, “This has been such an outpouring of love…I love my family at the Sun-Times.” She Blog 11 - Israel Idonije and Regina Danielsstarted to name friends in the audience but realized the task would be too great. So she continued, “Kup, that was quite a person. What I loved about Kup, he loved writing. We were doing six columns a week except for Saturday and I loved every moment of it with him.” (Stella’s popular column – “Stella’s Column” – can be found every Blog 12 - Courteney Nzeribe and Lisa LenoirTuesday and Thursday in the Sun-Times.) Stella’s award was followed by the Daniel Pearl Award which was given to CBS News’ chief foreign affairs correspondent, Lara Logan. Logan and her CBS crew were arrested and detained for a night by the Egyptian Army on Feb. 3, while covering the Blog 13 - Cute newlyweds Christina Raddi and Lou Vastarevolution there. She said the crew was blindfolded and handcuffed at gunpoint, and their driver beaten. They were advised to leave the country, but were later released. Since 2002, she had spent the next four years reporting from war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq for CBS News. Other Sarah Brown Boyden Award winners included Sun-Times’ John J. Blog 14 - Jimmy Rittenberg and “Dutchie” CarayKim (Photography), Sun-Times’ Francine Knowles, Kim Janssen and Sandra Guy (Business), WBEZ-FM’s Robert Wildeboer (Features), Tribune’s Dan Pompei (Sports), Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol, John J. Kim (Public Service), Tribune’s Joel Hood, Annie Sweeney and Stacy Blog 15 - Chris Ruys and Otis WilsonSt. Clair (Spot News), Tribune’s Patricia Callahan and Trine Tsouderos (Science), Tribune’s Sam Roe and Jared Hopkins (Health), Sun-Times’ editorial page staff (Editorial Coverage), Tribune’s Michael Hawthorne (Investigative), AP’s Sharon Cohen (Best Series) and Best of the Best honors went to Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol and John J. Blog 16 - Kathleen Henson and Marion BrooksKim for their public service entry, “The No-Snitch Code.” It was an evening filled with familiar faces including Jimmy Rittenberg, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Alan Kaye, Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Israel Idonije, Juanita Jordan, Grant DePorter with daughter Margot, Hermene Hartman, Blog 17 - Dori Wilson and Joy GermontLinda Yu, Joe Ahern, Linda Johnson Rice, Larry Wert, Otis Wilson, Hosea Sanders, John Colletti, Rich Varnes, Leah Hope, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Lisa Lenoir, Cheryl Burton, Mary Ann Childers and Jay Levine, Robert Jordan, Allison Payne, Christina and Lou Vasta, Tony Preckwinkle, Tim Evans, Chaz Ebert, Marion Brooks, Blog - Asta Ramanauskaite and Jen KnoedlLeeAnn Trotter, Father Ken Velo, Karen Jordan, Christian Farr, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, Robin Robinson, Dutchie Caray, George Daniels, Kathleen Henson, Diana Palomar Scott, Morene Dunn, Barry Axler, Courtney Nzeribe, Blog - Bill Von Dahm and wife CelesteJamey and Melissa Sage Fadim, Tony Abruscato, Johnny Snickers, Margot DePorter, Cherie and Ernest Baker, Chris Ruys, Pam Becker, Tai Duncan, Devin Blackburn and Shell Reyes among many, many others. Congrats to all of the deserving honorees! What a great night for Chicago!

Blog 1 - Rick_Bayless, Dot_Coyle,Sheila_O'GradyThe 4th annual Chicago Gourmet was, yet again, a smashing success! Presented by title sponsor Bon Appétit in conjunction with the Illinois Restaurant Association and presenting sponsor Southern Wine & Spirits, this year’s event took place from September Blog 2 - Food_Buddha, LeeAnn_Trotter23rd through 25th in Millennium Park and brought out a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees. The Kick-Off party, the popular Hamburger Hop, was held atop the Harris Theatre Rooftop and was the ultimate burger showdown with more than 17 determined competitors preparing their top burger dishes. Two chefs emerged victorious: Blog 3 - Adam_Rapaport, Colleen_McHugh, Todd_HatoffBandera Executive Chef Colleen McHugh received the judge-selected Allen Brothers Award presented by Todd Hatoff, president of sponsor Allen Brothers Steaks, and Executive Chef Steven Lawhorn of Palmer Place took home the People’s Choice Award for Blog 4 - Andrew_Knowlton, Bridget_Alberthis “Benchmark Burger.” Other exciting activities surrounding Chicago Gourmet included cooking demos, book signings, food and wine seminars, Grand Cru Tastings, numerous gourmet tasting pavilions, and much more. Hundreds of renowned chefs participated including Rick Blog 5 - Jonathan_Waxman, Steve_DolinksyBayless, Stephanie Izard, Tony Mantuano, Mary Sue Milliken, Jonathan Waxman and Ted Allen. Winemakers, premium spirit producers and brewmasters from around the world were also on hand to interact with the attendees. The event raised big money for the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), whose Blog 6 - Hamburger Hopmission is to build the Illinois hospitality workforce through career exploration, workforce development and scholarships. Congrats to IRA’s Sheila O’Grady and her dedicated staff and supporters for another great year of Chicago Gourment!!! (Photos courtesy of David Ditzler and Jeff Schear.)

A New Movement AdThe Joffrey Ballet dancers are not only incredible artists but they are also dedicated fundraisers for worthy causes! EMBARC is a non-profit Joffrey Ballet dancersorganization that provides unique cultural experiences and interactions to high school students from Chicago’s most socially and economically isolated neighborhoods. And in support of this worthy cause, the Joffrey Dancers have created a special event called “A New Movement.” This intimate evening will feature the dancers in their home, The Joffrey Tower (located at Joffrey-Ballet-Chicago3Randolph and State), where they will share their art for the cause, presenting six world premieres that the dancers have Joffrey Don Quixote Opening Nightchoreographed on their own time. The evening will also include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of J & L Catering, plus a silent auction with décor donated by Kehoe Designs. I hope you can join me and see these groundbreaking new pieces being performed in support of EMBARC. For tickets and more info, please click here. (One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to EMBARC’s programming!) 

Newbuilding_picThe Anti-Cruelty Society will be hosting its 11th annual It’s Raining Cats and Dogs Benefit on Friday, October 21st, from 7 – 11 PM at the Palmer House Hilton. This event, their Oden2_597165second largest annual fundraiser, is sponsored by Chopper Trading, Hill’s Science Diet, RCN Cable and CS Magazine and will be emceed by NBC 5’s Andy Avalos. There will be more than 15 chef tastings, complimentary bars, live entertainment from The Ron Harris Music Group, a Panache Boutique fashion show, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, $5000 cash raffle, and of course, adorable adoptable cats and dogs serving as the host committee! Individual tickets are $175 in advance or $200 at the door. For more info and tickets, please call 312-645-8006 or visit www.itsrainingcatsanddogs.org.

Blog 1 - Designer MonArrez surrounded by loveWell, I guess there could be a cuter designer than Hector-Javier MonArrez but I don’t know who it would be! His beautiful Front Row 2012 Runway Show was held recently in Blog 2 - Wulf Kaal and show producer Kimberly Palmisanothe legendary Union League Club’s Crystal Room in front of a packed, appreciative audience. The evening began with a VIP champagne reception and then moved into the Crystal Room for the main event. Expertly produced by soon-to-be-wed Kimberly Palmisano (her soon-to-be-proud-hubby is hunky Wulf Kaal), the show Blog 3 - The one and only Rosemary Fanti and friendfeatured glamorous Factor Models styled by Joseph Michael’s Salon. The show was hosted by NBC’s Zoraida Sambolin with music provided by DJ Blog 4Konsept. And it wouldn’t be a party without seeing the Queen of Illustrations, Rosemary Fanti, who was there making everyone look much better than they really are! I loved Hector’s sassy designs and especially his copper colored leather- and fur-trimmed suit. His attention to detail is flawless and this collection highlighted his masterful skills. Congrats Hector! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…view ALL pics HERE!)

Blog 1 - Bob Mariano greets Chef Rae Ellen Gutrich and Small ThreadMariano’s Fresh Market is hands-down my favorite grocery store in town! And not only because it generously donated $10,000 to Common Threads recently, but this event did give me the opportunity to Blog 2 - The dedicated Mariano's staffsee this brand new store for myself for the first time. I will tell you I’ve never seen so much beautiful food so lovingly arranged. While we were there accepting the check from owner, Bob Blog 3 - Bob Mariano presenting check to Common Threads ED Linda O’KeefeMariano (darling hubby of Nina DiFrisco), the staff burst spontaneously into song spelling out Mariano’s! I’ve never seen anything like it! The store brochure reads “We provide world-class neighborhood shopping at compelling prices. We Blog 4 - Common Threads cooking demo at Mariano’s Fresh Marketare a full-service, complete destination grocery store that caters to family shoppers and foodies alike.” I am totally hooked. Congrats to Bob Mariano on this wonderful new concept Blog 5that makes grocery shopping such an exciting experience! And thanks also to Bob and Roundy’s Supermarkets for their wonderful policy of always giving back to the communities they’re involved with. Check out Mariano’s for yourselves at 333 E. Benton Place. Welcome to Lakeshore East and thanks for the support on behalf of the kiddies of Common Threads!

Watch312.comMark your calendars and save the date for Watch312.com’s Launch Party set for Wednesday, DC CrenshawNovember 30th at the Joffrey Tower! See for yourselves the new shows being debuted and meet DC Crenshaw from “Chicago Dr. Sandy Goldberg and Scott MackayUnplugged” and Dr. Sandy Goldberg and co-host Scott Mackay from “LIVE! With Dr. Sandy.” Lots of surprises in store, too! In the meantime, check out my latest videos from the Green Tie Ball and the Chicago Beach Polo Matches…more fun than the law allows! 🙂

I still haven’t made it to that pumpkin patch, sadly. I am still hopeful the weather will hold so until I get there, here’s a video to remind us all that “The Time is Now!”   

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

PhotoP.S. Check out this great pic of Chef Art Smith’s latest restaurant, Southern Art & Bourbon Bar, at 3315 Peachtree Road in Atlanta! Rhonda Sanderson reports it was some of the best fried chicken she’s ever had…so now we know!

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August 23, 2011 · 11:09 pm

THE WINDY CITY WELCOMES HOLLYWOOD KINGS

Blog 1 - Sugar Rautbord and Larry King Sometimes opportunities come around when you least expect them. I have known, loved and admired socialite/author Sugar Rautbord for many a year. Her global connections are well known and her stories are fascinating as she calls many world leaders her friends. So, Blog 2 when she called and asked me if I would like to ride in the limo with legendary talk show host/author Larry King to Wrigley Field to see him throw out the first pitch, I had to pinch myself. I’ve always known and admired him (who hasn’t?) but it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to sit with him and ask questions that I came to know what a legend he truly is. He was in town to promote his current Blog 3 - With Larry and Sugar riding to Wrigley book, “Truth Be Told,” which is described as “a fascinating collection of stories and anecdotes about favorite guests, memorable Blog 4 - Larry with Cubs Manager Tony LaRussa moments, funniest jokes and a half-century of asking questions.” I can’t wait to read this one, right after I read his last book, “How to Talk to Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere.” (With my new gig as host of “Social Blog 5 - Cute Cubs Marketing Manager Katie Marta Circles,” I think this book will come in VERY handy!) And speaking of “Social Circles,” I was even allowed to have my cameraman, Fred Jackson, in the Blog 5 - Howard Tullman and Sugar’s sugar cookies! car with me so we could record each and every precious moment. At most, I was expecting a sound bite from Larry enroute to the ballpark, but what I received was 25 minutes of uninterrupted “Larry King-isms” that I will never forget. He recounted his friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who he said will never speak on a cell phone. So when a call came in for Larry at his barbershop from the Russian Prez, Larry’s Blog 6 - Larry’s passion for baseball shows! barber took the call and said, “Some clown is on the Blog 7 - Signing autographs for ALL who asked! phone saying he’s Putin!” (Putin said this about Larry: “In U.S., there are many talented and interesting people. But, still, there is just one King.”) And then there was the time that Saddam Hussein called Larry when he was enjoying himself at a restaurant with friends. Larry told the waiter, “Put him on hold.” Blog 8 - Jesse Jackson with glam daughter Santita Former President Bill Clinton called King during his impeachment proceedings and the first thing he asked was “Who’s Blog 9 - Ken Norgan, Helen Melchior, Joan Colmar and Cheryl Burton winning?” knowing how passionate Larry is about baseball. King also talked about growing up poor in Brooklyn and remembers his first pair of glasses was courtesy of government aid. When I asked him how he met his gorgeous wife, Shawn, he said in L.A. in Blog 10 - Alison Rosati and her cute NBC cameraman front of Tiffany’s. “It became pretty expensive…I wish it had been a Target!” At the ballpark, he was inundated with fans requesting him to sign their baseballs and take photos – Blog 11 - Darby Hill with hubby and Larry and he obliged every single one of them. He also shared a sweet moment on the field with Cardinals Manager Tony La Russa: When Larry playfully tried to switch baseball caps with him for a photo, Tony wasn’t having any of it and Blog 12 held the cap for the camera instead. (BTW, Larry brought the Cubs luck, even though he’s a Dodgers fan – they beat the Cardinals 5-4 in 10 innings!) His long-time friend, Sugar Rautbord, Blog 13 - Larry with Leslie Hindman hosted a book launch party for him, along with International Insurance exec Debra Hoag, later that evening at her posh Gold Coast condo with lots of friends in attendance. Seen on the scene were Jesse Jackson (talking presidential politics with Larry), Leslie Hindman, Lynne Blog 14 - Larry, Father Costello and Marilyn Miglin Bredfeldt, ABC anchor Cheryl Burton (wearing the cutest hot pants), Cancer Treatment Centers of America CEO Steve Bonner, Sophie Bross, film director Party co-hosts Debra Hoag and Sugar with Larry Matthew Miele, Marilyn Miglin and her daughter Marlena, Holly Hunt, Jerry Stone, Chef Art Smith, Lane Davis, former Miss Arkansas and equestrian Darby Hill, Sun-Times’ Laura Washington, Chicago Mag’s Rich Gamble and NBC’s Alison Rosati, among many others. After the party, Sugar and 10 of Larry’s pals headed off to Rivers Casino for dinner. Oh, what a day AND night! :) (All photos by Mila Samokhina with additional pics by Mitch Canoff.)

Blog 1 - Honoree Martin Sheen with Film Fest founder Michael Kutza This same night, the 47th Chicago International Film Festival) honored Martin Sheen with a long overdue Lifetime Achievement Award. Martin came to town with his handsome Blog 2 - Governor Quinn, Monica Walter and Martin Sheen son, Emilio Estevez, as part of their 32-city, grass-roots promo tour of their film, “The Way.” Film Fest Founder and Artistic Director Michael Kutza couldn’t have chosen a more worthy recipient to Blog 3 - Dan Uslan, producer David Alexanian and Emilio Estevez honor than this hard-working, remarkable and much-loved film icon. Sheen remarked to the crowd, after Governor Quinn honored him with a proclamation naming August 19th as “Martin Blog 4 - Donna LaPietra and event emcee Bill Kurtis Sheen and Emilio Estevez Day” in Chicago, that he ‘hopes after all this fuss that you like the movie!” (Governor Quinn told me later that Sheen, being the avid human rights activist that he is, had Blog 4 - With Martin! contacted him to ask him to abolish the death penalty.) As for the movie, “The Way” is described as “a powerful, inspirational, and often amusing story about family, friends and the Blog 5 - Committee Chair Rich Varnes and cute wife Cynthia challenge of navigating through an ever-changing world.” Estevez, who wrote, directed and co-starred in the film, describes it as “essentially the retelling of ‘The Wizard of Oz’” with Sheen portraying Dorothy in her quest to find her way home.  After Sheen received his Silver Blog 7 - Film Fest founder Michael Kutza with Emilio Estevez Hugo from Kutza, he remarked that “it looks like the Blessed Mother!” He also said he would follow FDR’s advice to “be sincere, be brief and be seated.” Emcee Bill Kurtis had an opportunity to tease the Blog 8 - Andrew Hayes and Tsi-tsi-ki Felix Governor with his comment, “Wouldn’t this [the theatre] make a great casino?” In the media line before the screening, the loving father and son talked to each and every reporter! Emilio has piercing Blog 9 - Chic people at film premiere eyes just like his dad and when I told him so, he said, “And no contacts!” He loved directing his father, whom he said “has such dignity,” and is “always on time and knows all of his Blog 10 - Bob Graham and glam friend lines.” He also said his dad inspired him to write the story. In a London Telegraph interview, when asked if he had considered any other actor for the lead Blog 11 - Autographed Paul McCartney guitar role, Estevez said, “Dad wanted me to. He said, ‘You ought to go to Michael Douglas. You’re not going to get this movie made with me.’ But I said, ‘I’m only making this movie with you.’ Then he said, ‘Mel Gibson should play this part.’  I said, you are playing this Blog 12 - Interviewing Emilio Estevez for Social Circles role. Stop.’ That’s the level of his generosity.” The love and respect between these two men was palpable and a joy to see. When I spoke to Martin, I asked him how he liked Chicago and he Blog 13 - Guitar autographed by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band said, “This is not only a city of Big Shoulders, but of big hearts, too.” And I couldn’t agree more! After the movie, the Film Fest’s annual Summer Gala was held across the street at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers. Even the walk to the after-party was exciting as Jeanne Malkin (R) and friend you wound your way past 11 Lincolns (one of the event’s sponsors) and through the pulsating light beams of the six massive searchlights. It made me feel like I was in Hollywood at the premiere of “Casablanca!” (Summer Gala Committee Chair Rich Varnes did an Blog b outstanding job along with his notable host committee!) The party continued the movie’s Spanish theme with flamenco dancers, tapas and Sangria along with a huge memorabilia-filled auction that included two guitars, one signed by Paul McCartney and the other red, white and blue one, signed Blog a by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band! There were also sports jerseys from Patrick Kane, Derrick Rose and Billy Williams; a Carlos Zambrano baseball; a Kermit the Frog sketch signed by Jim Henson; a signed “Peanuts” cartoon sketch; signed film fest posters as well as signed movie posters by Sheen and Estevez. There was even an Oscar poster signed by Jack Nicholson, Robert Redford, Woody Allen and Steven Spielberg among many others. This year’s Chicago International Film Festival runs from October 6th through 20th. (All photos by Mila Samokhina with additional pics by Steve Starr.)

Blog 1 - Chef Takashi Yagihashi There is such diversity in Chicago for events! You can go high, you can go low or you can go fest! The first (hopefully annual) Street Food Artistry event was held recently at Galleria Blog 2 - Mason and event co-founder Alicia-August Wright Marchetti. This event celebrated the rich street food culture in Chicago and had something for everyone! Guests sampled tastings from Bistro One West, Dawali Mediterranean Kitchen, Dark Matter Coffee Company, E.leaven Food Company, English Bar & Restaurant, Porkchop and Wow Blog 3 - Heather Hannon, Lindsey Hays and Andrea Schwartz Bao. Participating food trucks included Bergstein’s NY Deli Truck, Forever Yoghurt Truck and the Old School Root Beer Float Cart among others. Macy’s Chefs A-Go-Go Tour Blog 4 - Jada and Chef Julius Russell featured the Mobi Munch Truck manned by charming Chef Takashi Yagihashi. (Watch for his new restaurant, Slurping Turtle, coming soon to 116 W. Hubbard St.) His delicious and healthy noodle dish with secret sauce was to die for! I also loved the LickLick truck for the Blog 5 poochies, manned by cute owner Andreana Droz. Porkchop offered delicious shredded pork sandwiches grilled with whiskey corks!?! It was tasty (hic!)  though! Chef Julius Russell gave cooking demonstrations using Chilean Blog 6 - “Sweet” Chef Darius Williams ingredients – he is so sweet and talented that it’s no wonder he has just been named Culinary Ambassador to Chile! With wife Jada by his side, they make a formidable team. :) There was also a kids’ cooking demo by handsome Chef Eric Paul. Live entertainment included the sweet Blog 7 - Eleni Hountolas, Dimitri Douvalakis, Miguel Chavez sounds of Chicago Street Musicians’ Meisha Herron, M.A.D.D. Rhythms, The Real Connection, Soul People and H2O Soul. There was also an interactive, live photo shoot by fine art and fashion photographer Geraldine Rodriguez. Blog 8 - Alexis and Alex Straus This event was presented by President and Co-founder Patrice Perkins (My Lifestyle Zen) and Co-founder Alicia August-Wright (A’Vents by August), both who wanted to bring Chicago’s diverse communities together as one. Proceeds from the silent auction benefitted University of Chicago Charter School, Common Threads and Chicago Street Musicians.

And now, here are some of my favorite upcoming events – aka CANDACE RECOMMENDS!

Parkways Garden Party Luncheon Thursday, September 8th

The 9th Annual Parkways Foundation Garden Party & Luncheon will be held in Grant Park (Columbus Drive and Balbo) beginning at 11 AM. The 2011 Volunteer Award will be presented to Jo Ann Nathan. The Jens Jensen Award will be presented to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. Co-chairs are Carol Prins and April Schink. Tickets begin at $225. For further information, please contact Alison Krzys at 312.742.4807 or email her at akrzys@parkways.org.

 

Sub-nav-toque Thursday, September 8th

Hosted by Dr. Sandy Goldberg, “Toque: An Evening with Chicago’s Culinary Masters” will benefit Children’s Oncology Services, Inc. The evening will begin at 6PM at the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, located at 1 W. Wacker Dr. and will feature a seated, multi-course degustation menu prepared by top chefs including Ryan Poli, Graham Elliot, Stephanie Izard, Mindy Segal and Cleetus Friedman, among others. The event’s Executive Chef is Michael Kornick. Tickets are $250 and can be purchased by calling 312.924.4220, Ext.4 or by visiting www.onestepcamp.org.

Catholic Charities Gala of the Arts Friday, September 9th

The 10th Annual Catholic Charities Gala of the Arts will donate a percentage of proceeds benefitting the Catholic Charities’ ongoing Emergency Assistance Programs for those in need. Fifteen juried artists will display and sell their artwork at this event which will also include a seated dinner followed by the live performance of “Under the Streetlamp: An Intimate Evening with the Recent Stars of Chicago’s Jersey Boys.” Tickets are $250 and can be purchased by calling 312.655.7912 or by emailing aowen@catholiccharities.net.

Misericordia logo Sunday, September 11th 

The 31st Annual Misericordia Family Festival runs from 11 AM until 6 PM at Misericordia’s Campus, located 6300 N. Ridge (just south of Devon Avenue). This event will include live entertainment, a children’s theater, games, a celebrity dunk tank, Jesse White Tumblers, Frisbee Dogs, clowns, Rainbow Dogs Pet Therapy, silent auction, bingo, craft booths, kiddie rides and so much more to support the exceptional programs Miseracordia offers for more than 600 children and adults living with mild to profound developmental disabilities. This year, Miseracordia must raise $13 million for costs not covered by the State of Illinois in their efforts to provide housing for individuals on its waiting list. (Thanks to my friend Mary Frances Bragiel for giving me a heads up about this great event for a wonderful cause!!)

Banner_Silver_Script Saturday, September 17th

The 20th Annual Green Tie Ball, presented by A. Finkl & Sons, celebrates a “Return to the Emerald City” this year and, since this event IS at Finkl Town, located 2011 N. Southport, you know it will be fun!!! Co-chairs Tim Smithe and Stephanie Castagnier have planned an evening that will include edibles from more than 60 of Chicago’s finest restaurants, charitable gaming, live entertainment by Dr. Bombay, DJ Rock City and Platinum Events DJs as well as premium open bars. The evening begins with a VIP reception at 6:30 PM. This ball’s proceeds will help raise money towards the greening and beautifying of Chicago’s expressways, gateways and neighborhoods. For tickets and more info, please visit www.GatewayGreen.org.

Thanks to "Windy City Live" for having me on again this week!  I had a blast, as always, and love those sweet peeps! Glad to see the show doing so well!!!

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Dennis, Simona and Sebastian Garcia And last but not least, a huge congrats to beloved mom-about-town Simona Garcia and her cute hubby Dennis on the birth of their second baby! Welcome to the world, Sebastian Jack Garcia!!!

Mvb Well, that’s this week’s lowdown on Chicago’s highlights! Hope to “see” you ALL again next week! (And remember, if you enjoy Candid Candace, please vote for me in CBS’ “Chicago’s Most Valuable Blogger Awards 2011.” You can vote everyday until Sept. 8th!) 

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. This woman is either really, really brave or really, really stupid. Either way, it’s still beautiful to watch!

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August 9, 2011 · 8:42 pm

51st GLAMOURCON HIGHLIGHTS PLAYBOY PLAYMATES, PAST AND PRESENT!

Blog 1 - Playmate of the Year 2011—Claire Sinclair Glamourcon is a bi-yearly event that celebrates the world of glamour and pinup art with an emphasis on Playboy Playmates. This year at the Crowne Plaza O’Hare, more than 20 Playmates participated. There were girls from Blog 2 - Playmates at Glamourcon 51 every era including the current Playmate of the Year, Claire Sinclair. Claire’s looks harken back to the days of famous pinup Bettie Page with her dark hair and short cropped bangs. Even her flirty, polka dot skirt reminded me of a kinder, gentler time. No wonder Hef picked her! Of course, I guess it doesn’t hurt to be dating his son, Blog 3 - Fellow Bunny-Playmate Janis Schmitt, PM 2-78 Marston, either! At 20 years of age, Claire is one of the youngest Playmates Blog 4 - Chicago’s Crystal McCahill with her casting, PM 5-09 of the Year! My husband wondered if she even had her driver’s license and I replied that I am sure she has no shortage of limo offers! She is cute, adorable, bright, funny and sexy all rolled into one package. Her star turn at MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris revue brought the house down during her hot burlesque number on the big, red lips sofa. But enough about Claire – there Blog 5 - John O’Neill and Claire Sinclair were lots of other fabulous Playmates there too like Janis Schmitt, Miss February 1978 (who I was a Bunny with in St. Louis), Lee Ann Michelle (Miss Blog 6 - Super fans-friends Tom Shimada and Wilmer Rivers February 1979), Liz Glazowski (4/80), Charlotte Kemp (12/82), Kerri Kendall (9/90), Crystal McCahill (5/09) and her mom Gale Olson (8/68), Henriette Allais (3/80), Cathy St. George (8/82), Lorraine Michaels (4/81) and Lisa Blog 7 - Kerri Kendall, PM 9-90 Sohm (4/77), among others. The two-day event attracted more than 600 fans and offered everything under the sun pin-up related including vintage Playboy magazines, original artwork, t-shirts, sculptures, Playboy clothing, photography sessions, an old-time Blog 8 - Fan-friend Larry Armstrong with PM Lee Ann Michelle, PM 2-79 burlesque show by Vaudezilla.com and jewelry to name a few of the highlights. It was great seeing favorite friend/fans like Tom Shimada who never fails to amaze me. Blog 9 - With Claire Sinclair, Janis Schmitt and Liz Glazowski During the last show, he had found a Playboy cover that I had never seen and he did it again this year! He brought an unknown cover from Mexico dated March Blog 10 - Sara Liz and Carlotta Champagne 1981. Playmate Cathy St. George had done the identical cover for the U.S. version in October 1981. Playboy is one of the original “recyclers!” Also seen on the scene, the “Playmate’s Friend” Larry Armstrong (who always finds treasures to bring to the show), John Blog 11 - Fan-friend Jeff Evans with his 500+ baseball O’Neill, photographer Tom Testolin, Seth Grenald, calendar and poster dealer Thomas Helmke (who presented me with my calendar from 1982), John Blog 12 - Rali Ivanova Newman, artists Alex Lord and Steve Baier along with dear Jeff Evans (who is the only person I know with a baseball signed by almost every single 500+ home run hitter including Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Frank Blog 13 - Henriette Allais, PM 3-80 Thomas, Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Willie Mays, Reggie Jackson and Barry Bonds to name a few!!!). Friend and United Airlines pilot, Bloke Mauer, touched my heart by gifting me with half of his pilot’s wings! The next Glamourcon will be at the Hilton in Long Beach, California, on November Blog 14 - Lorraine Michaels (R, PM 4-81) and friend 5th and 6th. I talked to Patti Connors and we hope to make it a Bunny/Playmate reunion with Janis Schmitt and Debra Jensen McMurray, (Miss January1978). Who knows, maybe we can take a casserole over to the Mansion to console Hef! Thanks to all who attended Glamourcon 51 and event founder Bob Schultz! Hope to see you all in Long Beach!!! To learn more about the event, click here. (To view ALL event photos, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Co-chairs Janet Barnes and Julie Hawkins The Shedd Aquarium’s 5th Annual BLU event was an ocean lover’s delight with more than 1,000 guests mixing and mingling at the historic aquarium on a Blog 2 perfect night in Chicago. The star of the show was the jellyfish (jellies) exhibit but the true star was the aquarium itself. Opening in Blog 3 - CS’ Samantha Saifer (2nd from R) with cute friends 1930, it has been a top cultural attraction in the city and, on this night, with the decorative lighting, the exhibits looked like stage sets. The jellyfish were Blog 4 glowing and undulating in their temporary homes (which I hope becomes permanent!) and the sharks, along with 500 other species, were swimming lazily in the Wild Reef complete with its own crashing surf. I am ashamed Blog 5 to say this was only my second time at the Shedd, but thanks to their dynamic Auxiliary Board, who presented this event, I will be returning again and again. There is so much to Blog 6 see here! On this night there were tastings from some of Chicago’s top restaurants including farm raised caviar from Big Fish Farms, tuna and salmon tartar from cibo matto at the Wit, Spanish saffron rice Blog 7 and chicken from Emilio’s Tapas, steak tartar from Hubbard Inn, house smoked sturgeon from Lockwood Restaurant, tacos de carnitas from Mercadito, pan seared goat cheese from Prairie Grass Café, Blog 8 duck breast and beet salad from newcomer Roka Akor Sushi and Steak and a gorgeous chocolate tower of fondue from the Melting Pot among many others. At the end of the night, when Blog 9 dancing began on the Lakefront Terrace, delicious pizza from Aurelio’s was served. Co-chairs Janet Barnes and Julie Hawkins, along with the Shedd staff led by Katie Clark, planned a perfect night under the stars that raised over $150K for conservation and educational programs. I hope to meet you by the shark tank sometime soon!  (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina).

Blog 1 Lots more summer fun coming in the Windy City with the first ever “Street Food Artistry Event” on Sunday, August 14th, at Galleria Marchetti, located at 825 W. Erie, from 1 – 7 PM. This unique event celebrates Chicago’s street Blog 2 - Adreana Droz with her doggie cart, Lick Lick food culture and will include food trucks, street-inspired dishes, food carts, street inspired art, photography and more. There will even be an adorable doggie ice cream truck, LickLick, which will cater to the four-legged guests! Owner Adreana Droz Blog 3 - Chicago Street Musicians says, “We use only top-grade human ingredients in our doggie treats and ice cream. There are no preservatives or stabilizers of any kind.” Fido can choose between flavors such as peanut butter bacon, green apple cheddar, carrot carob and strawberry almond mint. Makes me wish I was a dog! (Not really!) The silent auction will benefit Common Threads, Chicago Street Musicians and the University of Chicago Charter School. Tickets are only $35 can be purchased by calling 312.884.1278 or visiting www.streetfoodchicago.com/event-deets.

Blog 1 - Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez The 47th Chicago Film Festival will honor actor Martin Sheen with a much deserved Lifetime Achievement Award before he premieres his latest film, “The Way” on Friday, August 19th. He will walk the Red Carpet beginning at 6:30 PM alongside his son, Emilio Blog 2 Estevez, who wrote and co-directed with his dad. The film is a feel-good movie about the relationship between a father and son. Film Fest founder Michael Kutza always reins in top talent for his galas and this year is no exception. The film will premiere at AMC River East with a post reception across the street at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Legendary Bill Kurtis will be the emcee and RL’s Rich Varnes is the chair for this event along with a great host committee. Tickets are $200 and can be purchased by calling 312.683.0121 or by visiting www.chicagofilmfestival.com.

Blog 1 It will be a week of dance next week beginning with the 20th anniversary of the Dance for Life Gala coming to the Auditorium Theatre, located at 50 E. Blog 2 - Choreographer Randy Duncan Congress Parkway, on Saturday, August 20th. This event benefits DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids) and will feature five dance companies including The Joffrey Ballet, Ron de Jesus Dance, Giordano Jazz Dance of Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance and River North Dance Company plus two world premieres by choreographers Harrison McEldowney and Randy Duncan. Tickets begin at $50 for performance only and $175 for pre-event reception and performance. To purchase tickets or for more info, please call 312.922.5812 or visit www.danceforlifechicago.com.

Blog 1 - Fab foto by Todd Rosenberg Following this dance theme, the Chicago Dancing Festival will present its opening night benefit gala Blog 2 - Faye Driscoll Dance group at the MCA with Mayor Rahm Emanuel as the host on Monday, August 22nd. (He used to be a ballet dancer, dontcha know?) The night will feature an Blog 3 - Venue scene by Todd Rosenberg intimate evening of duet performances by Brian Brooks Moving Company, Faye Driscoll, Hubbard Street Dance, artists from Blog 4 - Choreographer Walter Dundervill The Joffrey Ballet, Martha Graham Dance Company and the Chicago Dancing Festival’s first ever original commissioned work by Walter Dundervill. The Blog 5 - Brian Brooks Moving Company performance begins at 6 PM followed by cocktails and dinner. This event kicks off five days of the festival with the Grand Finale on Saturday night, August 27th, beginning at 7:30 PM with the “Celebration of Dance,” which is open to the public in Millennium Park. For tickets ($250) and more info, please call 312.931.9954 or visit www.ChicagoDancingFestival.com.

Blog 1 - Sade and John Legend ASIDES! Congrats to Tails in the City for being a destination point for John Legend and girlfriend Chrissy Teigen. Darling owners Bruce Haas and Blog 2 - Tails in the City’s offerings Philip Emigh tell me they stocked up on Poochee collars and leashes, a new carrier and bed plus lots of toys and treats. John was in town touring with Sade but, before the show, they headed to Table 52 for Chef Art’s famous fried chicken!

Steve Starr by Wright Chicago’s own Steve Starr is known for his photography skills but the set stylists for the much-talked about new television show, "The Playboy Club," sought him out for something else. Steve also has cases of vintage items available for purchase in the Lincoln Antique Mall (on Irving Park Road near Kedzie). There, they found some wonderful pieces for their set including a vintage radio and French sunglasses circa 1962. Steve Starr – a man of many talents!

Hope some of you caught me on “Windy City Live” Monday morning! It was so much fun sitting at the “BIG Chat Desk” with Val, Ryan and Ji… :-) I will be on again on Monday, August 15th, at 9 AM on Ch. 7. If you missed it, please check it out below AND, if you enjoy the segment, please Facebook “Windy City Live” and let them know!

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Well, that’s this week’s lowdown on some fantastic highlights! Hope to see you all at Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama Friday night benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities!!! Tickets are still available by visiting www.RonaldHouseChicago.org or by calling 630.623.2309.

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Fred Gohl P.S. Wishing the happiest of birthdays to beloved Fred Gohl! A zillion family and friends celebrated his recent 95th birthday! Happy Birthday Fred and many, many more!

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