Tag Archives: Bill Natale

MCA’S ARTEDGE: A WONDERFUL CASE OF SENSORY OVERLOAD

…PLUS HAMBURG BALLET; CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR; A BIBLIOPHILE’S DREAM; GUESS WHO WON A TELLY?; LEGENDARY LANDMARKS; WOMEN’S DAY AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW; MISERICORDIA’S GOLD MEDAL WINNER; CRYSTAL HEART BALL; EVENING IN BLOOM; QATAR COMES TO CHICAGO; BUNKY SEES RED AND FUCHSIA; WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Linda Johnson Rice and Julie Latsko having some MCA fun!The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) hosted its annual artEdge fundraising benefit on February 2nd with more than 500 guests in attendance at this never-to-be-forgotten, over-the-top with creativity
2 - Darling performance artistsevent. Chicago’s art lovers, performance enthusiasts and philanthropists gathered at the MCA Warehouse for an evening of factory flair and unique performances, raising $900,000 for MCA
3 - Greg Cameron (L), Greg Thompson (R) and friendsprogramming. Known for its unfettered imagination and thought-provoking events, this year’s artEdge was no exception as the MCA presented an interactive and full-sensory experience where guests were taken on
4 - MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynszetjn, co-chairs Marty Nesbitt and Anita Blancharda journey and transported into a revolutionary, working factory. Notable Chicago attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Amy Rule, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, Tom Shapiro, MCA Board Chair King Harris and wife Caryn, MCA Trustees Marilyn and Larry
5 - Sanjay Sharma and Marilyn and Larry FieldsFields
, MCA Trustee Cari Sacks, MCA Trustee Mary Ittelson, MCA Trustees Lois and Steve Eisen, MCA Deputy Director Janet Alberti, MCA Trustees Stefan Edlis and Gael
6 - Cari Sacks and Mayor Rahm EmanuelNeeson
, artists Theaster Gates, Kerry James Marshall, Dawoud Bay and Kara Walker, Chef Michael Kornick and wife Lisa, EXPO Chicago’s Tony Karman and wife Sondra, Sylvie Leger and Todd Ricketts, Neil Bluhm and Johnson
7 - Sondra and Tony KarmanPublishing CEO Linda Johnson Rice. On a chilly Chicago evening, attendees began their journey by entering through the back alley of the MCA Warehouse, arriving at the destination’s loading dock. Upon
8 - MCA Director of Performance Programs Peter Taub and his darling wifeentering, patrons traveled upstairs to the second floor, where chain link walls and mechanical sounds guided guests into the factory. Awash with rich lighting of yellow, red and orange, the fantastic factory featured graffiti walls by Chicago
9 - Creative food station by George Jewell Cateringartist Hebru Brantley. artEdge co-chairs Anne Kaplan, Anita Blanchard and Martin Nesbitt and Susan and Michael Canmann greeted guests and playfully draped them with “caution” tape, preparing them for the evening of factory fun as they punched in timecards for entry. The space
10 - With Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecori, Lucien LaGrange and Melinda Jakovichfeatured three different rooms and each held a distinctive dining experience for guests. Throughout the evening, guests dined buffet-style and enjoyed a variety of delicacies from Jewell Events Catering served by factory workers wearing gloves and navy
11 - Gretchen and Jay Jordanblue factory coats. The first room guests arrived in – the Chain Link Room – featured scrumptious hors d’oeuvres of onion rings, fried mushrooms, pub chips and popcorn cleverly attached to chain-linked walls. Patrons were treated to an ensemble of performers, hanging high above on
12 - Rebecca Ford, Les Coney and Regina Taylorchains and entertaining guests with their impressive theatrics. Jyldo and Peter Taub, MCA Director of Performance Programs, curated all performances for the evening and they were awe-inspiring with a touch of the risqué which had many guests popping out
Naomi Beckwith and McArthur Biniontheir cell phones to record the incredible imagery. The show-stopping crowd, dressed uniquely in industrial chic cocktail attire, entered the Cafeteria Room, which featured a spinning “turn table,” where guests could sit while dining on tins of
14 - Vivian Teng, Michael Kutza and Mimi Plauchemacaroni and cheese, baked potatoes with chipped beef and tuna casserole. The highlight of the room was the “dry cleaning rack,” which featured an oscillating rack of assorted meats and cheeses hanging from hooks that guests were able to both admire and eat.
15 - Fitz and the Tantrums blow the doors off for the after-partyAfter experiencing the Cafeteria Room, guests continued the adventure, arriving in the Corrugated Room where performance troupes amused guests with sporadic, spirited performances on an illuminated stage. The Corrugated Room included a
16 - MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejnbuffet wall with an assortment of salads including cumin and carrot salad, Mediterranean faro salad and kale and Brussels sprout salad as well as a variety of soups served in trashcan-inspired containers. Following the dining hours, groups traveled downstairs to the first floor, for a special concert performance from indie pop and soul group, Fitz and The Tantrums.
17 - Soup and chili served from garbage cansBefore the performance, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn gathered the co-chairs on stage for welcoming remarks, thanking them for
20 - Stairwell performance artisttheir dedication and support to the museum. An extravagant lighting display and distinct guitar chords signaled the arrival of Fitz and The Tantrums to the stage. The lively performance featured the band’s signature tunes and had guests dancing, Dancing, DANCING! During the concert performance, guests enjoyed
18a Rubber Bar and dessert reception, featuring a special “donut wall” that had to be seen to be believed: Created cleverly with pegboards, the “donut wall” was a favorite among attendees and included four different types of donuts. The VIP Rubber Bar doubled as an apothecary, with
19oversized jars filled to the brim with gummy bears, peach rings and different flavors of licorice. It was an evening I’ll never forget and was one of the best parties I’ve ever attended. Gala co-chairs, MCA staff and Heffernan Morgan’s Bill
22 - Donuts served from pegboardsHeffernan
collaborated to create this magical evening and were inspired by the fact that this venue was indeed at one time a factory, so they brought it back to its original roots in grand style! Kudos to the co-chairs and to the MCA –
23 - Aaron Shirley (R) and cute friendsthey always kick it up a notch for each and every event. All proceeds from this hugely successful factory-inspired fete will support MCA programming. Don’t miss any of their events, check out their website here! (Additional photos by Mila Samokhina.)

 

1 - Hamburg Ballet’s Director-Choreographer John Neumeier, Joan Harris, King and Caryn Harris and the MayorThe internationally-acclaimed Hamburg Ballet made its highly-anticipated Chicago debut at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance performing the full-length ballet, “Nijinsky.” Created
2 - Lee Blackwell Baur, Harris Exec. Dir. Michael Tiknis and Dori Wilsonby John Neumeier, the company’s director and chief choreographer for the past 40 years, this touching ballet had the sellout crowd enthralled. Before opening night, the Harris Theater Board of Trustees held a
3 - Phil Lumpkin, Carroll Joynes and Helen Melchiorspecial pre-performance reception to welcome the company to town as it launched its 2013 U.S. Tour. The visit was a homecoming for the Milwaukee-born Neumeier, who spent time in Chicago learning about dance as a young student. Dance supporter Mayor Rahm Emanuel was in attendance to join in the
4 - Hamberg Ballet by Holger Badekowwelcoming festivities with theater board members, theater president and managing director Michael Tiknis, as well as dignitaries, Consul Generals and officials representing six countries. The opening night performance received a standing ovation from the audience and rave reviews from critics. (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

 

1 - CCC Artistic Director Josephine Lee celebrating after Sita RamI loved seeing the Chicago Children’s Choir perform in the blockbuster theater production of “Sita Ram” recently at the Harris Theater. And now, under the direction of president and artistic director Josephine Lee, they
2 - CCC at the Taj Mahalparticipated in a 10-day tour of India, with stops in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Chennai and Bangalore for concerts presented by the Jaipur Literature Festival and the U.S. Embassy. “Chicago Children’s Choir is proud to serve as global ambassadors of our great city and the country,” said Lee. “These children are truly the Voice of Chicago and this tour gave them the opportunity to experience the rich
3 - CCC with Bombay Jayashri and vocalist P. Unnikrishnan in Chennaiculture of India while exhibiting the power of music to unite people through our performances and exchanges.” Throughout India, 45 singers from the world-renowned Concert Choir showcased music from “Sita Ram,” the organization’s world musical based on the ancient Hindu epic “Ramayana,” and performed selections from their diverse
4 - CCC performs for the Salaam Balaak Trustrepertoire spanning classical, world, gospel and popular music. In addition to scheduled performances, the Choir conducted workshops with children from The Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit that provides support for street and working children in inner cities of New Delhi and Mumbai. The Concert Choir is the most advanced Chicago Children’s Choir ensemble, with children ages 12-18 selected from thousands in Chicago Children’s Choir Programs throughout the city. (For more info, please visit www.ccchoir.org.)

 

Bookstellyouwhy_1352583180If you love books, you should know of this wonderful international bookseller, Books Tell You Why. Established in South Carolina in 2002, this company is one of the leading sources for rare and autographed books. I was honored when they asked to interview me for their book blog. (Read here!) I never get tired of reading and talking about rare books and love the wonderful stories surrounding great finds: A copy of Edgar Allan Poe’s first book, “Tamarlane,”
Bookswas found in a Goodwill shop and recently, a young man cleaning out his deceased grandfather’s library came across a signed copy of “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley, whose signature is rarer than hen’s teeth! It’s a fun hobby and this is the website to check out to get started yourself!

 

Telly AwardsI hope you are all fans and followers of my Watch312.com show, “Candid Candace Chicago.” Our most recent video covers a hilarious night of comedy at “Laugh Out Loud” with Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and darling former Bear Jerry Azumah! Their famous friends came out to support them and it’s all captured
Chuck with Watch312 crew, Alonzo Stallings,  Josh Orr, Abe Pina, Ashley Stevenson and Brian Person (front)here on my show! I'm also very excited to report that one of my show segments won a TELLY AWARD (Tellys honor the very best film and video productions, groundbreaking online video content, and outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs!!) (See the award winning segment here!) Congrats to my Watch312.com editor Josh Orr (check out his scary Vanishing Point films here!), Watch312.com executive producer Bill Natale and crack cameramen Alonzo Stallings, Fred Jackson and Abe Pina! More to come!!! 

 

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1 - 2013 honorees John W. McCarter and Leslie HindmanThe 2013 Legendary Landmarks Celebration will honor Leslie Hindman, John W. McCarter and Target at the Four Seasons Hotel on March 7th. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception followed by dinner, a live auction and an awards ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. in the Ballroom. Honoree Leslie Hindman founded Leslie Hindman Auctioneers
2 - Heather Becker, Grace Barry (LL honoree 2012), and Jane Nicholl Sahlins (LL honoree 2008)in 1982 and for the past three decades, she has remained a constant force behind high profile auctions. My personal friendship with Leslie began when she discovered a Van Gogh painting in an attic; I attended the auction (did NOT buy the Van Gogh) and we've been friends ever since. She is not only an amazing businesswoman but she is loved by all who know her. (Leslie will be presented by John H. Bryan.) As president of the Field Museum of Natural History Chicago, honoree John W.
Landmarks 2013 invite imageMcCarter
has served the museum for the last 16 years. He is a fellow of the American Academy of the Arts and Sciences and serves on many high-profile boards. McCarter graduated from Princeton University, has an
John-bryanMBA from Harvard Business School and also attended the London School of Economics. (John will be presented by Kim White.) Minneapolis-based Target Corporation opened its first store in 1962 and today serves guests at nearly 1,800 trend-forward discount retail stores and at Target.com. Target entered the Chicago market almost 20 years ago and today has 11 stores within the city limits and more than 50 in the metropolitan area. (Target will
Kim White and John McCarter (Photo by Tonya Hall)be presented by Marty Stern.) The Chicago Sun-Times' Bill Zwecker will serve as emcee and the event will be co-chaired by Joseph Antunovich and Janet Rotner and the celebration committee includes Madeline Gelis, Shelley Gorson and Karen Prieur. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Landmarks Illinois Preservation Heritage Grant Fund, which has made more than 80 grants providing essential assistance for the revitalization of historically and architecturally significant properties. Hope to see YOU there! For tickets and more info, please click here or call 312.553.2000.


1 - Patrick McCarthy’s gold medalCongrats to Oak Park native and Misericordia Heart of Mercy Home resident Patrick McCarthy: He recently won a gold medal for speed skating in the Special Olympics! His gold came in the 777m speed skating category and he also
2 - Patrick with Apolo Ohnowon a bronze medal in the 500m and finished fourth in the 333m, while attending the Special Olympics World Games from January 29th through February 5th in South Korea. On February 2nd, Patrick was seeded fifth out of sixth in the 777m races. In the semi-final he skated 11 seconds faster than his personal best, finishing in first place and advancing to the finals.
3 - Patrick with his mom and dadWhile competing against speed skaters from Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Austria and Hong Kong, Patrick was able to shave off an additional four seconds for a personal best finishing in first place to win a gold medal! Olympic gold medal-winning American speed skaters Apolo Ohno and Dan Jansen were both on hand to congratulate Patrick’s Team USA and skate a unified relay race. The 23-year-old has been a resident at Misericordia Heart of
4 - Receiving his gold medalMercy Home since 2010. The Home, located on the north side of Chicago, supports more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities. Patrick, who has Down syndrome, has been an active participant in Special Olympics since he was eight years old and is a member of the Misericordia Special Olympics team in aquatics,
5 - Patrick winning on the iceathletics, golf, basketball, and power lifting. His career on the ice began in August of 2000 with the Tomahawks, a special needs hockey team sanctioned by Amateur Hockey Association Illinois. Patrick began speed skating to improve his hockey skills but soon discovered his love of the sport and began competing one year later. (He currently trains with the Evanston Speed Skating Club.)  Huge congrats Patrick and to learn more about Misericordia Heart of Mercy, please click here!)

 

1 - Beth Rosen introduces the honoreesThe Chicago Auto Show was THE place to be this year for Women’s Day on February 12th. Hundreds of women came out to peruse the latest auto trends and attend the inaugural Women Driving Excellence event.
2 - Anupy and her daughter with honoree Corri McFadden and co-host Debi LillyThis first-time networking event was hosted by Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Salzman, Barbara Rozgonyi, Saya Hillman, MJ Tam and Beth Rosen and presented by Broadway in Chicago, Cars.com,
3 - Beth Rosen, Debi Lilly, Barbara Rozgonyi, Elisa All, Saya Hillman, Jill SalzmanRedEye
, Chicago Tribune
and Monika Dixon PR. It was a chance to mix and mingle, sample spa and wellness services and enjoy the show. I was honored to be included as one of the speakers for its Women Driving Excellence presentation that also included
4 - Luvvie Ajayi shares her storyAnupy Singla
(celebrity author and entrepreneur and Chicago Now blogger), Corri McFadden (E-DropOff founder), Genevieve Thiers (Sittercity founder/serial entrepreneur), Karen Weigert (the Mayor’s Chief Sustainability Officer) and Luvvie Ajayi (The Red Pump Project co-founder). Every
5 - Women Driving Excellence Trailblazer Awardsspeaker was inspiring and had incredible stories to share about how they “start, accelerate, fuel and steer others to excellence.” The event also included a Broadway in Chicago “I Love Lucy” stage performance. I will treasure my award and this special day shared with inspiring women – congrats to all! Darling reporter LeeAnn Trotter summed up the event perfectly here in her NBC coverage below…thanks for being there, LeeAnn! 

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1 - Dr. Sujal Desai, Puja Desai and Brian MagnaboscoLittle Company of Mary Hospital’s Foundation
hosted its 23rd annual Crystal Heart Ball on February 2nd at the Field Museum featuring the Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts exhibit. The emcee was Little Company of Mary’s very own Patrick Elwood
2 - Sallie Lizcano and Bill Gaede(Fox 32 Chicago). More than 830 guests danced the night away to the music of the Indigo Orchestra while perusing more than 200 rare, sparkling artifacts including elaborate jewelry, ornate weaponry, royal costumes, and stunning artwork of the “great king,” the Maharaja. This premiere gala raised more than $467,000 for “Values, Vision, Innovation: the
3 - Crystal Heart Ball at Field MuseumCampaign for Little Company of Mary Hospital
.” The Mary Potter Humanitarian Award was presented to Harmony, Hope & Healing (HHH) and accepted by its founder, Marge Nykaza. (HHH is a non-profit organization that provides creative, therapeutic and educational music programs, offering spiritual and emotional support to
4 - Kevin and Ann Garvey and Liz and Steve Bensonhomeless and underserved women, children and men in the Chicago area.) The Sister Nancy Boyle Award for Excellence was presented to The Cancer Center’s Integrative Therapy Department of Little Company of Mary Hospital. Susan Arnold, R.N., B.S.N., M.S., Director of Patient Care Services, accepted this honor on behalf of the Integrated Therapy team. Dr. Irving and Shirley Fuld chaired the
5 - Nancy and Bob Barrett and Mike and Monica Careyfundraising event along with their co-chairs, Mr. Matt and Mrs. Mary Ellen Filosa. They presented four cash raffle prizes as well as a raffle prize of an 18-karat gold agate yellow sapphires and white diamonds bracelet won by Matt Kavanaugh. The grand prize cash raffle of $15,000 went to Francis J. O’Donovan. For more information on Little Company of Mary’s Foundation Department or to learn how you can donate, please visit www.LCMH.org/foundation.

 

1Evening in Bloom,” an exclusive first-look preview event of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show opens on March 8th. The event is from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Festival Hall at Chicago’s Navy Pier and heralds the arrival of spring in the city. The theme of
Chicago flower and garden show 2010-3the 2013 Chicago Flower & Garden Show is The Art of Gardening. The show opens to the public at 10 a.m. on March 9 and runs daily through March 17th. A portion of the proceeds from “Evening in Bloom” benefit Chicago Gateway Green, a non-profit
FGS-blooms-2organization dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways; Peterson Garden Project, a volunteer non-profit organization committed to teaching people how to grow their own food; the Kendall College Charitable Trust, a nonprofit
FGS-closeuporganization dedicated to providing support for students of need enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs; and Special Olympics Chicago, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The preview event
FGS-wall-bloomswill showcase nearly two dozen stunning display gardens, as well as original artworks in a variety of forms. Guests will have an opportunity to meet several artists, whose works will be shown during the event. As they mingle in the garden “gallery,” guests will sample fine wines and a variety of hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants as well as enjoy a garden-themed regional cake competition on the closing day. For tickets ($125 each) and more info, please visit www.chicagoflower.com.

 

John Cannon and Cary FrankDrum roll please: And the Chicago Interior Design Firm of the Year issssssssss…CANNON FRANK! In a contest sponsored by Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine and the Design Center at the Merchandise Mart, Cary Frank and John Cannon’s creative company won top honors! Congrats on your wonderful partnership, both professionally and personally! 🙂

 

1 - Bunky and his beautiesBunky Cushing
did it again! For his 20th annual Valentine’s Day Tea held in the Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton, more than 100 of our town’s movers and shakers turned out in force to celebrate with this beloved Chicago
2 - Dr. Stacie McClane Mickelson and Myra Reillyicon. For the first time, the invite offered guests the option of dressing in either fuchsia, pink or red as opposed to the previous “Ladies Please Wear Red” request. This annual tea – now privately known as the “Red Heart 100” – has been called “one of Chicago’s most sought-after-invitations” by Harper’s Bazaar. Attendees included Mary Pat Burns, Sharyl Mackey, Sherry Lea Holson, Lynda Silverman, Robin Segesta, Laurie
3 - With Rochelle Trotter, Nina Mariano and Toni CanadaDavis, Nina Mariano, Toni Canada, Myra Reilly, Hazel Barr, Jean Antoniou, Stacie Mickelson, Eileen Weinberg, Felicia Winiecki, Diane Edelman, Greg Hyder, Dan Uslan, JP Anderson, Sherrill
4 - Mary Pat Burns and Sharyl MackeyBodine, Megan McKinney, Rochelle Trotter, Mary Ann Rose, Darby Hills, Tina Weller, Cathy Bell (newly engaged!), Sheree Valukas, Amalie Drury, Rebecca Besser, Martha Wallace, Ann Wallace and Heather Farley Ingram among others. Bunky has been a fixture on the city’s philanthropic
5 - Heather Ingram, friend, Felicia Winnecke, Ann Wallace, Mary Pat Burns, Martha Wallace & Jean Antoniouscene for as long as I can remember. He hosts annual fundraisers that benefit the Howard Brown Clinic as well as the Jane Addams Senior Caucus. The Chicago Tribune has called Bunky “an arbiter of style for the
6 - Laurie Davis, Sherrill Bodine, Myra, Megan McKinney and Darby Hillscrème de la crème of Chicago society,” and Vogue has called him “Chicago’s social tugboat.” He has been associated with Ralph Lauren for more than 25 years as a consultant, his time with the company taking him to
7 - Michigan Ave. Mag’s JP Anderson and Dan Uslan with Vicky HoodNew York, Miami, and finally settling in Chicago in 1990. His weekly column, “Squire of Society,” is not to be missed! Thanks for all you do Bunky! (To see ALL pics from this always amazing event, please click here!)

 

Qatar-airways-planeOn April 10th, Qatar Airways will officially honor Chicago as its newest gateway! A VIP host committee met recently at the Waldorf for a luncheon to learn more about this five-star airline and what their plans are for our fair city. I was happy to learn that they plan on becoming involved in the communities, spreading some love to our local
Qatar logo imagescharities while increasing their visibility. Qatar’s Rebecca Jelfo welcomed the group and said, “This partnership with Chicago will bring an estimated $250 million and thousands of jobs to the community.” I was honored to
Flight attendants imagesbe a part of this committee who also included Israel Idonije, Christopher Clinton Conway, Linda Johnson Rice, Les Coney, Alexi Giannoulias, Lindsay Avner, Sheila King, Tracy Schmidt, Wendy Krimins, Greg Hyder, Kedzie Schotters, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Jon and Andrew Landan, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, Shawn Baldwin, Keene Addington, Angela Schoenhard, Justin Jacobson, JP Anderson, Katherine and Abigail Tarbox and Laurie Davis among others. Welcome to Chicago, Qatar…this will be the beginning of a beautiful friendship! 

 

46903_411976738892194_717203530_nA Drink With Chicago
is hosting a charity comedy event on February 19, at The Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway. Co-founder Kelly Kane and Hillary Sawchuk will be interviewing the comedians on stage as well as over a drink, of course! Proceeds will benefit Rescue Our Angels which raises funds for families in need to receive autism treatment. Jenny McCarthy's Generation Rescue Foundation will then distribute the funds raised through their grant program. For tickets and more info, please click here!

 

The Night of the Matador Event Invitation 2-23-13-page-001Night of the Matador” will be held on February 23rd from 9 p.m. to midnight at Tavernita, located at 151 W. Erie. This event – themed “Old Spain” – will benefit the Equestrian Connection, which is one of the largest therapeutic riding centers in the country. Treating more than 300 children and adults with disabilities, this charity improves the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing by providing equine therapeutic programs. For tickets, $40, and more info, please click here!

 

Little City Poker Tourney 3-9Get your poker face on! The Little City Foundation and Spex – Chicago’s favorite stop for luxury eyewear – will co-host “Seeing Hope Together” on March 9th at the Hard Rock Hotel. This exciting poker tournament and casino night will support children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities and include an eyewear trunk show, all-night lavish buffet, open bar and swag bags! Spex Director of Marketing Michael Caputo and Little City Executive Director Shawn Jeffers hope to see YOU there! For tickets ($150), and more info, please click here

 

Cameron Can Foundation Overview-page-001Cameron Rocks On!” will be held at Rockit Bar & Grill, located at 22 W. Hubbard on March 14th. Join honorary co-chair Antonio Romanucci and The Friends of Cameron for a night of fun and heart-felt giving to help kids with disabilities as they raise funds to provide care for Declan Keddy, whose Irish heritage inspired the event. The night will also support the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Patient Emergency Fund as well as the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation. For tickets ($125), and more info, please click here!


UPDATED_Glossed & Found + Monika Dixon PR Oscar Event at Public Hotel(1)I know there are a lot of Oscar parties planned but the one I’ll be attending will be at PUBLIC Hotel (located at 1300 N. State Pkwy.) hosted by GlossedandFound.com’s Graham Kostic, Monika Dixon, Alexis Cozzini, Jessie Kalin and Darnell Robinson. From 6:30 to 10 p.m., enjoy the Academy Awards in style with champagne and hors d’oeuvres plus a chance to win a Best Dressed Award! Tickets ($50) are available at the door or online here

That’s it for this week! Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Candid Candace and I hope you’ll follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) and Facebook (Candid Candace)! And don’t miss my Candid Candace column every week in the Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine!
 

Marc and Ryan Sievers on Food NetworkLove, as always!

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 

P.S. Congrats to Chicago entrepreneurs and dynamic chef duo, Marc J. Sievers and Ryan L. Sievers, who competed on – and won – the Chicago episode of “Bobby’s Dinner Battle” on the Food Network! Woot woot!

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CHICAGO BEARS ISRAEL IDONIJE AND JERRY AZUMAH “LAUGH OUT LOUD” FOR CHARITY

…PLUS RICHARD DENT SHARES A SECRET, NORTHWESTERN STUDENTS’ EARTH SAVING PROJECT, CRYSTAL’S BIG HEART, NICOLE’S BRIDAL TIPS, A HOMETOWN DESSERT FIT FOR A PRESIDENT, PAMELLA AND DAN MAKE SOME PLANS, A SECRET PARTY (WELL, NOT ANYMORE!), THE LYRIC TAKES YOU TO PARIS, WOMEN DRIVING EXCELLENCE AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
1 - Co-hosts Jerry Azumah and Israel IdonijeA cold and rainy night didn’t keep the crowds from packing the house at the hot River North nightclub, Untitled, for the second annual Laugh Out Loud comedy show on January 29th. Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and former all-pro Chicago Bear Jerry Azumah teamed up to benefit 2 - Leon Rogerstheir respective charities for a night that included some of the top comedic talent around. Jerry’s charity, the Azumah Student Assistance Program (ASAP) Foundation, develops innovative and unique programs and charity events designed to raise funds for 3 - Glam girls at Untitleddisadvantaged students. Israel’s charity, the Israel Idonije Foundation, inspires underserved communities by providing 4 - Basketball great Antoine Walkerprograms focused on social and emotional life skills. Together, these great superstars created an evening that all those in attendance won’t soon forget. By the end of the night, my sides hurt from 5 - Ali Claytonlaughing so much at the show’s co-hosts WGCI’s Leon Rogers and Brian Babylon, along with featured comedians Damon Williams (of BET’s "Comic View" who also served as the opening act for the 6 - Kelley Speck (R) and cute friendlegendary Kings of Hollywood Comedy Tour), Adrienne Irmer (Perri’s darling daughter), Ali Clayton, Tony Scolfied, Ron Baker, Jr. (handsome brother of Ryan), Mitch Hurley, Erica Clark and Willie Lynch. The fun-filled 7 - Ron Baker, Jr.night began with a VIP reception in the club’s exclusive bar area behind the main stage. Here, guests got a chance to meet the hosts and mingle with the comedians as well as enjoy a fabulous buffet. I covered the event for 9 - Damon WilliamsCandid Candace Chicago (on Watch312.com) so stay tuned for all of the evening’s fun captured on video as well as great interviews with the hosts and the many sports stars in attendance. Seen on the scene were Antoine Walker, Trista Phillips, Jason McKee, 8 - Idonije Foundation’s Kendra Fogarty and Sharbel ShamoonKelley Speck, Erica Clark, Nina Chantelle, Les Coney, Alayna and DC Crenshaw, KISS-FM’s Angi Taylor and Saran Dunmore to name a few. To learn more about these wonderful charities, please visit www.israelidonije.org and www.theasapfoundation.org. Congrats Izzy and Jerry and thanks for all you do to make the world a better place. 🙂 (To see more pics from this fun-filled evening, please click here!)

 
1 - Richard Dent & Fred MitchellLegendary Chicago Bear, 1985 Super Bowl MVP and Class of 2011 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Richard Dent was the featured guest speaker at the Union League Club reception and luncheon held on January 29th. Richard was there to discuss his RJ, Shiloh & DeEtta Jonesbook, "Blood, Sweat & Bears," written with veteran Chicago Tribune sportswriter Fred Mitchell. After lunch, Fred interviewed Richard as he recounted stories in the book and playing football for the fiercest, most dominant defense in NFL history AND playing the game before violent helmet-to-helmet 3 - Richard giving his speech at Pro Football Hall of Fametackles were forbidden. He spoke about growing up in a family with nine kids and having a mother who did whatever it took to make ends meet. Richard asked the audience, “How many of you have seen the movie, ‘The Help’? That was my mom and she made the best 4 - Fred Mitchell, Margaret O'Connor, Sheila Dorman, Richard Dentbiscuits around.” Fred fielded questions from the crowd and as the luncheon came to a close, Richard shared this with the audience, “You are the first to know I will be carrying the Vince Lombardi trophy onto the field at Sunday’s Super Bowl game!” Two 5 - Richard and his son RJ at the premiere of The Karate Kidguests at the luncheon who sat with Richard and Fred at the Author’s table were Sheila Dorman (Sr. VP and COO of Northern Trust) and Margaret O’Connor (the producer of Richard’s pre-induction Hall of Fame celebration at Carnivale for 450 people). Sheila and Margaret also traveled to Canton, Ohio, for Richard’s induction into the Hall of 6Fame in August 2011. (Our beloved photog Steve Starr also made the trip and would be so pleased to know that his photograph of Richard’s children RJ and Shiloh and long-time girlfriend DeEtta Jones is in the book). To purchase "Blood, Sweat & Bears!", please click here!
 
1 - Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky congratulates NU studentsWater is one of the most important elements on earth and an exciting new documentary, “Water Pressures,” a film that features Northwestern University students and desert villagers in water-distressed Rajasthan, India, 3 - “Water Pressures” executive producer-director Bill Natalewill premiere on March 20th at the Wilmette Theater (1122 Central Ave).  Produced by Artistic Circles’ Ann Feldman, the film is hosted by "Entourage" star Adrian Grenier and directed  by Bill Natale (executive producer for Illinois Centers for Broadcasting and Watch312.com), 2 - On location in Rajasthan, Indiawho also served as the associate producer of the doc. The story demonstrates how understanding, education and collaboration can lead to sustainable solutions, particularly between developing and developed countries. Based on the relationships created by the documentary, Northwestern is now setting up a research site in the desert at the Jal Bhagirathi Foundation to study and 5 - Rajasthan, Indiaassist with desalination and water-related diseases. “Water Pressures” premiered at the Chicago 4 - NU students attend forum on global water crisis at NU CampusSouth Asian Film Festival, winning merit awards for a video for social change. It has been translated into Hindi with plans to be broadcast in India as well as on public TV stations nationwide beginning March 20. “Water Pressures” is presented by WTTW Chicago and will be nationally distributed by American Public Television. Enjoy this three-minute trailer and congrats to all involved for creating this eye-opening film!
 
Astrologer Jolie EvansI don’t know how many of you consult an astrologer from time to time but I have a wonderful woman who even gives readings over the phone based on your info! Jolie Evans has been in the business for a long, long time and her reading for me from last year was so precise that I just had to share her info with you! Anyone interested, please email jolieevans@live.com and tell her Candid Candace sent you! 🙂
 
Nicole Jacob DelehantyHuge congrats to one of my very favorite makeup artists, Nicole Jacob Delehanty! She is featured in this month’s issue of Town & Country Weddings, which showcases hair and makeup pros who travel to destination weddings. Anyone lucky enough to nab Nicole will certainly look her very best on her special day! Congrats to this gorgeous, Scan0001talented new mom who looks more beautiful than ever! Here are her five top tips for wedding makeup: 1.) Wear individual fake lashes, they draw attention to the eye 2.) Add shimmer to foundation for a natural luminous healthy glow, 3.) Enhance your features but don't mask your face with makeup, 4.) Bronzer is super important all the time – heathy color, and 5.) Light pink see through lip gloss is feminine and beautiful! (Unless of course you prefer Candid Candace Coral from CAMP Cosmetics, LOL!) For wedding makeup inquiries, please call Cathy at 312-961-6588 and to book appointments for makeup or brows, contact the Paul Rehder Salon at 312-943-7404. 

Hef and CrystalHef’s leading lady, Crystal Harris Hefner, is auctioning off her wedding dress from their nuptials in honor of Hef’s longtime and much-loved assistant, Mary O’Connor, who recently passed away. Given that Mary was responsible for helping H
ef and Crystal reconcile and eventually marry, Crystal has decided to put her pink, strapless, mermaid-style Romona Keveza gown up for auction along with her Aruna Seth pumps to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (This is the disease that recently claimed Mary’s life.) The auction ends February 11th. Click here to bid! What a loving gesture Crystal!

 
Dan and Pamella DeVos (Roland)Stylish fashion designer Pamella Roland – who has been the featured designer for The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails – will be spending more time in Chicago and wants her husband Dan to stay busy! Daniel DeVos, son of billionaire Richard DeVos of Grand Rapids, Michigan, just opened a Ford Dealership west of McCormick Place at 2401 S. Michigan Ave. Since buying a home downtown, Pamella hopes to spend more time in the Windy City and we  couldn't be happier to hear this good news! Welcome to Chicago, Pamella and Dan!!
 
1 - The Schulmans and their Eli’s Cheesecake at the InauguralMore Chicagoans making a national impact include the delightful owners of Eli’s Cheesecake, Maureen and Marc Schulman: This year marks the fourth inaugural cake that Eli’s has been invited to create! Both of former 2 - Kori, Haley and Elana Schulman at the Inaugural Balls wearing LuLu’s at the Belle KayPresident Bill Clinton’s inaugurals and President Obama’s 2009 Commander-in-Chief Ball all had giant Eli’s cheesecakes! This year’s 500-pound creation was served at the Staff Ball after Tony Bennett 3 - Eli’s Executive Pastry Chef Laurel Boger places the Statue of Freedom atop the edible Capitol Dome (all chocolate chip cheesecake)and Lady Gaga performed. The President, First Lady, Vice President and Second Lady were also in attendance. Maureen says, “It was a cheesecake frenzy!” The cake also appeared on the Jumbotron much to the delight of the Schulmans! Also in attendance were Eli’s executive pastry chef 4 - Marc Schulman looks on as Inaugural CEO Stephen Kerrigan (front) and Inaug. Exec. Dir. David Cusack cut the cakeLaurel Boger (who decorated the big cake in the kitchen of the Washington Convention Center), Schulman daughters Haley, Kori and Elana (who all wore glam dresses and 5 - Pep rally with Eli’s bakers before the cheesecake left for Washington, DC.exquisite jewelry from LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, no doubt styled by its chic owner Laurie Davis). What a thrilling opportunity for this Chicago institution, Eli’s Cheesecake!! Congrats to Maureen, Marc and all the little Schulmans! 
 
Women Driving Excellence invite finalI’m so excited to be a featured speaker for Women Driving Excellence, an inaugural event at the Chicago Auto Show on February 12th. In celebration of "women who start, accelerate
, fuel and steer others to strive for excellence," MJ Tam and Beth Rosen (ChicagonistaLIVE social talk show), Monika Dixon, Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Saltzman, Saya Hillman along with the Chicago Tribune, Red Eye and Cars.com will partner to co-host this exciting event. Featured speakers/honorees include Corri McFadden (eDrop-Off founder), Genevieve Thiers (founder of Sittercity.com), Luvvie Ajayi (AwesomelyLuvvie.com), Anupa Singla (Chicago Now blogger and former CLTV news broadcaster), Karen Weigert (City of Chicago Chief Sustainability Officer) and ME! 🙂 Giveaways will be offered throughout the event and will include iPad Minis, spa services, hotel stays and many more! The day’s thrilling activities will begin at 10 a.m. – to see all details and to RSVP, please click here! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

 

1 - With Sargent McCormick (2nd from R) with friends at Pump Room

With Sargent McCormick (2nd from R) with friends at Pump Room

I received a very unusual invite for the 108th Twelfth Night Masquerade. What the hell is this, you ask? I know, I asked myself the same question so I googled it: It turns out this is a very exclusive party (by invite only and, by this I mean only you and not your spouse or a plus-one which irritated me to no end). However, my natural curiosity got the best of me so I just had to go. From what I discovered, this event was founded in 1905 by Bill Gamble (of Procter & Gamble fame) and his high-society cohorts, who banded together to break up the doldrums of winter in Chicago by inaugurating the Widow & Widowers Ball. From the start, it was a party with an irreverent twist: Gamble and company drew up a list of all the couples in their social circles, decided which member of each couple they deemed the most fun and invited that person alone to attend the ball. By 1920, this rule was relaxed – no doubt because of the outrage from the other partner – and the name was changed to The Twelfth Night Masquerade. Billy Gamble died in 1921 but the party continues as his lasting legacy to Chicago social life. Twelfth Night 2 - Clemente Dadoo from the University of Chicago and Thomas Love from Northwesternhas been a fixture on the Chicago social calendar for more than a century and for many remains a family tradition with current guests, their parents and even their grandparents in attendance. In order to receive an invite, you must be known to the Committee of Twelve. Oh, and the evening was also a celebration of charming Sargent McCormick’s 30th birthday. 🙂 I could only attend the pre-party cocktail get-together at the Pump Room but the party hit its zenith later with 600 guests in costume in the Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel. No press allowed…oops, there goes next year’s invite! 😉 Their motto: Let good taste prevail to no avail. Their rule: No equestrians or mounted pedestrians. 
 
Ladybug_Bash_final-01-19-13I love this event that benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug.  On March 23rd, HGTV host and “hottie-with-a-heart” Dina Manzo will host the third annual Ladybug Bash to benefit Comer Children’s Hospital at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St. Tickets begin at $65 and will help raise awareness for this non-profit which aims to ease the struggles of childhood cancer. Please come out for the fun and be inspired by this great cause!
 
Lyric Save the DateThe Lyric Opera wants to take you to Paris! On February 9th, the Lyric will present the Fantasy of the Opera: Midnight in Paris. The Civic Opera house will be transformed into 1920’s Paris with the lower-level Opera Club morphing into the Moulin Rouge, the foyer and mezzanine levels will become the “Streets of Paris” with French gourmet Lyric venue scenesamplings and spectacles, the Cabaret will showcase stars of the Lyric’s winter productions performing non-opera repertoire and will include singers Jamie Barton, David Cangelosi, Elizabeth Futral, Amanda Majeski, Ana Maria Martinez, Lucas Meachem, Albina Shagimuratova and Andrea Silvestrilli. Event chairman Courtney Rosen (who will be wearing a chic gown by Atelier Azza) promises this will be a very unique experience! Dance music will be provided by big band Rendezvous! For tickets, beginning at $275 and more info, please click here! Ooh la la!
 
1 - Lynne Jordan sings Nina Simone wearing a chic gown by designer Reggie NewportCongrats to beloved cabaret star Lynne Jordan and her hot band, The Shivers!  Her sell-out show, which channeled Nina Simone, was a huge hit at City Winery last month and her recent show at Davenport’s, a tribute to Janis Joplin, was also a 2 - Lynne Jordan & the Shivers at City Winerysell-out! There's nothing this woman can’t sing and Roger Ebert said so in a recent tweet to his almost 800,000 followers! Don’t miss another show from this Chicago treasure!
 
Win black history eventThe Black History Month Innovation Panel will be hosted by the Women’s Innovation Network on February 19th at the International House at the University of Chicago. Panelists will include beloved PR queen Dori Wilson (Dori Wilson Public Relations), Jetta Bates (award-winning marketing expert and creator of JettaSetting), Makeba Kedem-Dubose (artist, curator and art educator) and Dawgelene Sangster (author and founder of Think Royally Inc.). Moderator, and another Chicago treasure, will be NBC’s LeeAnn Trotter. For tickets and more info, please click here.
 
2007 champion Dan PonceDancing with Chicago Celebrities is an annual star-studded charity ball presented by Arthur Murray to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. Over the last seven years, the ball has raised more than $800K which has been donated to deserving charities who champion this cause. The 8th Annual Dancing with Chicago Celebrities will take place March 8th Val Warnerat the Hyatt Regency and will include beloved WGN’s Dina Bair (I’ve seen this woman dance at Newsapalooza and I hope the other competitors are rehearsing NOW!), WBBM-TV’s Pam Jones, ’06 champion Chef Rick Bayless, ’12 MVP Kim Vatis (NBC5) and ’12 champion and former Chicago Bear Desmond Clark, NBC’s Stefan Holt, WGN’s Frank Holland, ABC’s Michelle Gallardo, Miss Illinois Megan Ervin, former Chicago Bear Anthony Adams and Christina Filiaggi (WLS-AM Radio 890). For tickets and more info, please click here
 
CFCA_775The Chicago Film Critics Association (CFCA) will celebrate its 24th annual Awards Show on February 9th at the Muvico Theaters in Rosemont, located at 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave. Nadine Velazquez and Joe Perillo will emcee and award-winning actress Jane Lynch will receive the Comedia Extraordinaire Award at 7:30 p.m. at the theater. Net proceeds will support the 2013 Emerging Film Makers Award for Columbia College Chicago film students. For tickets and more info, please click here!

 
Jenny McCarthyI love it that Playboy glamour girl and perpetually fit Jenny McCarthy (40!), loves Chicago’s delicious Giordano’s pizza…and stuffed pie at that! In a recent cover story article in Shape Magazine, she says she gets her Windy City fix by having it shipped to LA when Giordano's signshe craves a taste from home. She said, “There’s this place in Chicago called Giordano’s which has the best deep-dish pizza in the world. It’s my therapist, my best friend and my boyfriend on Friday nights.” I doubt that she’s ever very lonely but nice to know she loves one of Chicago’s many legendary institutions!
 
AdlerThe Adler Planetarium will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a reception hosted by new president Dr. Michelle Larson and chairman of the board, John Estey, on February 7th. The night under the stars will begin with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. in the Adler’s Sky Pavilion followed by a program honoring featured speaker and New York Dava SobelTimes best-selling author of “Galileo’s DaughterDava Sobel. Cynthia Ballew is event chair with co-chairs Nancy Temple (WB President), Linda Celesia, Caroline Becker Joss, Lisa Lewis, Erika Bartelstein, Pamela Pohl, Mihra Seta and Linda Gerstman. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.adlerplanetarium.org.)

 
Candid Candace Coral Lipstick-CAMP CosmeticsSpecial thanks to the Sun-Times Splash editor, and all-around great peep, Susanna Negovan for including my CAMP Cosmetics Candid Candace lipstick in Sunday’s fab section! This color is a great cure for the winter doldrums – hope you agree and buy it here!!! Me at Windy City Live(Wink wink!)
 
I’m so happy that Chicago’s social whirl has picked up! There's so much to do and so many great events planned! Tune into "Windy City Live" on February 25th, when I’ll share my top picks for March! 🙂
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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OSCAR FUN AND FASHION AT THE GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER!

…PLUS PAWS’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM, SUCCESS IS A JOURNEY, CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION'S STREET STYLE, BEAR TIE BALL, 60 STYLISH CHICAGOANS, STELLA’S HONOR, NINA AND BOB'S BIG DAY, JACK IS ONE, MY LATEST WATCH312.COM AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - 2012 co-chairsThe red carpet beckoned at the Gene Siskel Film Center for the only Academy Awards show in Chicago sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Movie Blog 2 - Tracey and Ray Samlow, Event Chairlovers came dressed to the nines on this night, many inspired by some of the nominated films. Host Amanda Puck was dressed in black and white from her favorite shop, Space 519, in honor of “The Artist” and guest Allan Caliman did the same and won “The Artist Look Alike” award on this night! Other inspired winners included Renny Blog 3 - Richard and Ellen Sandor (2nd from L) and friendsRhanna for “Marilyn Monroe Look Alike,” Jenna Plakut and Matthew Sullivan for “Power Couple,” Mila Samokhina for “Best Dressed Paparazzi,” Chris O’Dea for “Best Dressed Man,” Monika Rydz for “Best Dressed Woman,” Blog 4 - Ellen Kollar, Jean de St. Aubin and Tim KollarElena Samokhina for “Jessica Chastain Look Alike,” Jamie Sterle for “Zooey Deschanel Look Alike” and Emile Sile for “Morgan Freeman Look Alike.” It was a happy crowd with everyone hoping their favorites would win. The buffet dinner – Blog 5generously donated by MJ Catering – also gave a nod to the theme of the evening: Each dish was inspired by a film! There was Hawaiian salmon (“The Descendants”), thyme beef encroute (“Hugo”), roasted veggies (“Tree of Life”), southern style potato gratin (“The Help”) and asparagus and Blog 6 - A rapt audiencegruyere tart (“Midnight in Paris”). I loved seeing the movie going crowd so excited and it was contagious. I had my own personal favorites and they included “Hugo,” “Midnight in Paris” and “The Artist” and Chuck’s favorite was “Moneyball.” We both laughed so hard over “Bridesmaids” that it was ridiculous…actually, why don’t more Blog 7comedies get nominated? I think we should be throwing a little love their way right about now. And I have to say, as I watched the actual awards ceremony in one of the two state-of-the-art Blog 8theaters where the 84th Annual Academy Awards show was presented courtesy of ABC7 Chicago, that I had some other thoughts. First of all, we all get it…Angelina is gorgeous but that leg-throwing thing really disappointed me. This is a woman who should NOT be trying this hard. And, as Stella Foster so aptly put it Blog 9in the Sun-Times, “Angelina Jolie was elegant in black, but she could have kept that boney leg under wraps.” I love Stella, always telling it like it is! And now, here are my highlights: I Blog 10loved Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz’s booty shot when they were presenting…too awesome and both glam, glam, glam! I loved both the gowns but Diaz’s won in my opinion. When she came out to present and those feathers were flying in all the right Michael and Roopa Weberplaces, I was thrilled for her. I loved Billy Crystal from beginning to end. I am tired of nastiness, not only at awards shows but anywhere – life is hard enough…let’s try to be nice to each other! Funny can be nice, Blog 12as Billy has proven time and time again; I loved his comment about being in a theatre (“These are the places to laugh, to cry and to text.”), his comment about being at the “beautiful Chapter 11 Theatre…” and finally, “We have puppets and acrobats…we’re a Blog 13pony away from being a bar mitzvah.” Gene Siskel Film Center Executive Director Jean de St. Aubin said, “As Chicago’s premiere movie theater, we look forward every year to hosting the official Oscar party to celebrate achievements in Blog 14 - Joel Mangers and friend in Action Boothfilm. We’re thrilled to be sold out again and the crowd is so glamorous…it rivals the real red carpet.” Associate Director of Development Joel Mangers had this to say about the event: “Fun, sexy…everybody is having a Blog 15 - Mila and Elena Samokhinagreat time! It’s the most fun you can have outside of Hollywood!” I thought it was interesting, too, that the last baseball film nominated was “Field of Dreams.” I loved “Moneyball” (probably for all the wrong reasons!) and who could believe Sandra Bullock could speak German Mandarin Blog 16Chinese??!! Penelope Cruz was perfect from head to toe, as usual. I’m thrilled Meryl Streep won – 17 nominations and now three wins – and isn’t it refreshing that she is still so humble? I loved her speech and loved the fact that her first shout-out was to her beloved husband, Don Gummer, to whom she Blog 17 - Emcee Amanda Puck and Andrea Schwartzhas been married for 34 years. I also loved the Cirque du Soleil performance, although I think it was much more impactful in the theater than on TV as the standing ovation proved. It was a Blog 18real treat to cover this night at the Gene Siskel Film Center for my show, “Candid Candace Chicago,” on Watch312.com. We have the greatest crew and I want
to thank them all here now: Cameraman/editor Fred Jackson, producer Jill Bastian, editor Josh Orr, executive producer Bill Natale, producer John Basile and cameraman Brian Kaempen (Split Film Blog 19 - Lee Litas and her darling momProductions). I hope you enjoy this video as much as I enjoyed making it! 🙂 Congrats and thanks to the Gene Siskel Film Center for presenting such wonderful independent and international cinema, film festivals, cutting edge programs, premieres, retrospectives and classic films. Their next event will honor actress Reese Witherspoon on June 23rd at the Ritz-Carlton. Check here for more info. (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina…click here for more!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D37724%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Blog 1 - Co-Chairs Ashley & Noah Pettit (their PAWS dog Arthur), Courtney & Eric WeilerPAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism Party attracted a fun-loving and fur-filled crowd of more than 300 people and 80 pets to their sixth annual event at Galleria Marchetti on February 17th. The evening Blog 2 - Hosts Angi Taylor & Brotha’ Fred with PAWS Founder & Chair, Paula Fasseas (center)was hosted by KISS FM’s Brotha Fred and Angi Taylor and included dinner, dancing, photo ops and a one-of-a-kind live and silent auction. Highlights included the chance to fly a military aircraft under the guidance of an expert instructor. The Blog 3 - Alexis Fasseas, Susan Monahan & Jamie McLaughlinaircraft was the North American SNJ-5, the Navy version of the T-6, which trained almost every allied fighter pilot during WWII and into the Korean War. This amazing package sold for only $550!!! Four premium seats for a Cubs game three rows behind Blog 4 - Guests hit the dance floorfirst base included a party bus to the game and sold for only $600. (Now you see another reason why you should be coming to these events: great auction deals!) A trip to NY with two VIP tickets to “The Late Blog 5Show with Jimmy Fallon” sold for $2,450. During the evening, Petco Foundation was honored for its extraordinary donations to PAWS Chicago’s Pet Food Bank and the GusMobile. This medical van visits Chicago’s low income communities offering free Blog 7 - Peter Fasseas with Lindsay & Chris Carlton and their adopted PAWS Chicago pooch Eloisespay/neuter services as well as medical care. PAWS will save 4,500 homeless cats and dogs this year and spay or neuter more than 18,000 pets, the majority free for families who can’t afford this on their own. “It is so inspiring to see so many young Nevena Zee and friendsprofessionals, passionate about helping Chicago’s homeless animals,” said PAWS founder Paula Fasseas. Guests seen on the scene included Paul Earle and Ellen Rudnick, Hank, Anne and Haleigh Bernbaum, Neal Lenhoff (who generously donated $2K during the Bid to Save Lives), Andrew Pitt, Kim Gleeson, Richard Doermer, Lindsay Walter, Chris Carlton, Dr. Steve Stryker and Andrea Schwartz. This event raised more than $90,000 and was co-chaired by Ashley and Noah Pettit and Courtney and Eric Weiler. (Check out additional event pics by Sparenga Photography here!)

Blog 1 - Hosts Patrycja Drozdek, Monika Dixon and Jennifer ChristensonI was thrilled to be a part of the recent Success is a Journey seminar hosted by JMP Global’s Monika Dixon, Jennifer Christianson and Patrycja Drozdek at Hotel 71. The room was packed with more than 200 guests Blog 2 - Keynote speaker James Tarantino and his wifeinterested in hearing about the success and personal development of the panelists who included keynote speaker James Tarantino, FanFueled’s Anderson Bell, Boka Group’s Kevin Boehm and fitness expert Andrea Metcalf. Monika Dixon said, “Success is not a destination…it is a journey. This understanding comes when something Blog 3 - Host Jennifer Christenson (R) and glam guesthappens in your life that shakes up the very core of your being. Our panelists discussed what it took and the moment that kept them motivated. Every time they overcame a challenge that was just beyond their reach of capabilities, it gave them a feeling of worth and of value. It is then that they realized the next step and Blog 4 - With Monika Dixon and speaker Anderson Bellfound themselves already looking ahead to the next horizon, just beyond their view, but still surrounded by the feelings of accomplishment for the current successes.” Couldn’t have said it better myself, Monika! All of the speakers shared amazing stories of their Blog 5 - Speaker Andrea Metcalf (R) and friendsuccesses and failures and how it changed them as people. Guests seen on the scene included Kamil Bartoszcze, Chris Foltz, Paul Iacono, Rachel Schwanz, Corinne Meier, Anthony Farinas, Kasia Jarosz, Ryan Blog 6 - Monika with Paul Iacono and Rachel SchwanzBeshel, Zoryana Yavorski, Lonnie Rodriguez, Nevsy Zee, Eva Pawlus, Alexandra Wilson, Patrick Meyn, Kara Moore, Patricia Bielecka, Ruth Diaz Fabiny and Nicole Townsend. Thanks so much for including me! See my speech below and to hear ALL of the speakers, please find their names on YouTube. (To view ALL event photos by Photo Affair Studios, please click here.)

Nena IvonAnd speaking of speakers, legendary fashionista Nena Ivon, along with partners Linda Heister and Jane Laidlow, have created their very own speaker’s bureau, the Chicago Speaker’s Bureau called TALKSCHIC! The intent of TALKCHIC! is to provide lifestyle speakers for spouse programs, women’s groups, executive business meetings, cruises, panels, etc. If you or someone you know are interested, please send a bio to Nena Ivon at 222 E. Pearson St., Suite 2305, Chicago, IL 60611. 

RTRFlyerLots of fun events coming up! You won’t want to miss the Red Pump Project on Saturday, March 24th at the Society Art Gallery at 2140 W. Fulton St. from 6 to 9 p.m. This event will be held in honor of National Women and Kim-Coles-229x300Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and will feature Kim Coles, actress, comedian and motivational speaker. This is the third annual Rock the Red Fashion Show, showcasing up and coming designers from around Chicago. So ladies, prepare to rock your red pumps and fellas, rock your red ties to bring attention and awareness to the impact that HIV/AIDS has on women and girls. Awareness is always in style! 

2012_SPRING_SCHOLARSHIP_EVENT-CFF-1-30-2012-woutThe Chicago Fashion Foundation is hosting its annual scholarship event on Wednesday, March 7th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington from 6 to 9 p.m. “Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities” will showcase the work of 10 local fashion students Peach Carrwho will present looks representative of the signature street style of Chicago’s neighborhoods including Rogers Park, Chinatown, Andersonville and Ukrainian Village. The event will start with a cocktail reception in Preston Bradley Hall followed by the fashion show with three scholarships being awarded in the amounts of $500, $1,000 and Event Host Corri McFadden$5,000. I am thrilled to be a judge along with the always-darling Peach Carr (“Project Runway”), Jon Cotay (Akira founder), Catie Keogh (NBC’s “24/7”), Andrea Schwartz (Macy’s) and Diego Rocha (“Project Accessory”). E-Drop Off’s Corri McFadden will be the emcee for the evening. After the runway show, former winners will debut their spring collections while Too Faced Cosmetics recreates the runway beauty looks from the evening. Tickets are $25 for students, $35 for general admission and $55 for VIP (which includes a gift bag). Hope to see you all there! I will be filming for my Watch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” and would love to see your darling, fashionable faces on camera! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Rhythms_for_a_Reason_2.sflbPlease join me for the 2012 Bear Tie Ball benefitting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation on Saturday, March 10th. This is always a wonderful event for a great cause and I hope you will all come! The event is called Rhythm for a Reason and that means they’re “gonna rattle the walls, shake a leg, and come together to make a difference in the lives of Roe and Barb Conn and Valerie Warnerchildren and families battling pediatric cancer.” The night will begin at 6 p.m. at the UIC Forum with beloved co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto. Emcees for the evening will be Roe Conn and Val Warner from “Windy City Live.” Dining, dancing and awesome auctions all for a great cause! I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please click here! Black tie preferred but favorite musical era flair also encouraged!

And while we’re on the subject of Nina Mariano, please enjoy this sweet video of her and her hubby, Bob, along with members of Roundy’s management team ringing the bell for the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on February 10th! Only two conventional grocers have successfully gone public in the past 15 years – Dominick’s and Roundy’s – both of which were lead by the same CEO, Bob Mariano! Congrats, Nina and Bob! A much deserved honor!

TCW Mag coverA big thanks to TCW Magazine for including me in their “A-List – 60 Chicagoans of Style” feature! To see who was included, READ THE MAGAZINE or click here! 🙂

Stella FosterAnd last, but certainly not least, mark your calendars for yet another much deserved honor for Sun-Times super-scribe Stella Foster! The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans will be presenting her with their prestigious Dante Award at their luncheon on May 17th at Galleria Marchetti! Last year, Linda Yu received this award, as well as Stella’s mentor, Irv Kupcinet, years prior. Just love this girl who tells it like it is! For tickets and more info, please visit www.jccia.com. Congrats, Stella!!!

Well, as the NY Times says, “that’s all the news that’s fit to print” (although this isn’t really the case…I have lots more!). Just wait till next week! 🙂
 
Sharyl and Jackson MackeyLove,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Mike and Jackson MackeyP.S. I was so happy to attend the most incredible baby birthday party! Everyone I know was at Saddle & Cycle recently to toast Jackson Mackey’s first birthday. I don’t know if he’ll remember it but I sure will! The amazing décor was by Debi Lilly from A Perfect Event and will most certainly be appearing soon on a show near you! Just look at these pics and you’ll see why everyone was so happy to be a part of this little guy’s big day! Happy birthday, sweet Jack! 🙂

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WATCH312.COM: CHICAGO’S FIRST ONLINE NETWORK LAUNCHES BIG!

…PLUS THE JOFFREY AUXILIARY BOARD'S “POINTE OF DEPARTURE,” AWARD-WINNING CHICAGO HOTSPOTS, A COOL NEW RESTAURANT, A RESCUE ORGANIZATION WITH A NEW FOCUS, SAKS’ CHARITABLE BENT AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - President Bob MillsDespite the fact that there were several high profile parties on the same night, the James Hotel was packed with friends who came out to celebrate the launch of Chicago’s online network, Watch312.com! Blog 2 - Bob Mills, Lindsay Hoey and Bill NataleThe event was streamed live as well as filmed for my show, "Candid Candace Chicago" (see video at end of segment) and the Red Carpet was continually packed with the crème de la crème of the city. And while I interviewed guests, other hosts worked the room talking up their shows. DC Crenshaw, host of “Chicago Blog 3 - With fellow show hosts DC Crenshaw and Amanda PuckUnplugged,” interviewed fellow host and Prime House Executive Chef David Gresh for an upcoming segment for his show while Amanda Puck, host of “Dish It,” was fielding questions for her foodie-oriented show such Blog 4 - Michael Kutza and Donna LaPietraas where do you go for a romantic Valentine’s dinner or what are the best brunch spots in town? Chef Rick Gresh’s show, “Chefs in the Kitchen,” will take you into the great kitchens of Chicago to meet some of Blog 5 - Patrycja Drozdek, Monika Dixon, Jennifer Christensonour town’s greatest chefs. “4 X 4” host David Martin IV shows you four fun facts about your favorite places and events around Chicago. Master bakers Veronica and Mark Kwasigroch prepared the sweets for the evening Blog 6 - “Overexposure” hostsand their show, “Dream Cakes,” teaches us the finer points of baking plus tips of the trade. Their cakes are now offered in over 15 Whole Foods stores as well as on their website, www.DreamCakesChicago.com. Blog 7 - Melissa Babcock, Sheryl Dyer, Mary Pat Burns and Helen MelchiorWatch312.com even covers the hot technology market in the Windy City with the talented hosts of "OverExposure TV." During the party, Tatiana Garrett (host of “Chicago Tails”) introduced some adorable Blog 8 - Chuck, Liz Duffy and Alex LoCicerodogs and cats that are available for adoption from the Anti-Cruelty Society. Her show will be a pet lover’s delight and will not only showcase darling pets waiting for their forever homes, but also the many Blog 9 - Consulate General of Mexico, Eduardo Arnal (R) and friendways Fido and Fluffy can make your lives healthier and happier. After cocktails, Red Carpet interviews and fabulous hors d’ouevres by Chef Gresh, the lights dimmed and the Watch312.com promo video aired. (See it here!) Then I Blog 10 - Rachel Schwanz, Marcus Riley and Katie McLenaghanhad the privilege of introducing the brains behind the network, President Robert Mills. Bob began his career as a rock n’ roll DJ in Boston and quickly flew through the ranks into station management, eventually spanning major markets across the U.S. from LA to Blog 11 - “Chicago Tails” host Tatiana Garrett (center) and friendsChicago, NY and Boston. His track record for elevating ailing radio stations to number one market positions is legendary. Recognizing the need for well-trained broadcasters at all levels, he acquired the Ohio and Illinois Centers Blog 12 - Rhonda Sanderson and Charley Jordanfor Broadcasting as well as founding the Internet Streaming Corporation. He is a charming newlywed and a brilliant businessman with a quick wit. He also serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Chicago Blog 18 - Lynn McMahan, Gale Gottlieb, Toni Canada and Jean AntoniouLoop Alliance and actively supports too many arts, civic and charitable organizations to mention. Watch 312.com’s Executive Producer Bill Natale is an Emmy award-winning producer/director and executive member of the Director’s Guild among many Blog 14 - Kristina and Mike McGrathother media affiliations. Congrats to Director of Communications, Lindsay Hoey, who has worked tirelessly to bring Watch312.com to fruition, along with production director John Basile and his entire staff. Their hard work has paid off: The website is gorgeous Blog 15 - Andrea Schwartz and Kiki Luthringhausenand the programming is all on the right track. If you missed this exciting event, check it out here (on Watch312.com, of course!) and I hope you will keep your iPads, iPhones and Blog 16 - Elena Samokhina with handsome friendseyeballs tuned into Watch312.com, which is available online 24/7! (Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available, too…just shoot me an email!) To see ALL of the party pics by Mila Samokhina and Helena Rafayen, please click here

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Blog 1 - Nico Rodriguez introduces co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew CaravellaAnother hot event on this same night was presented by the Junior Auxiliary Board of the Joffrey Ballet, “Pointe of Departure.” A Blog 2 - Life imitates art...signature of this event is finding hot new venues and this year was no exception. Venue Six10 at the Spertus Institute offered a great atmosphere for this evening where stage and canvas collided. More than 430 guests attended this event that included Blog 3 - Coco Meers and David Kimballartwork from contemporary to classic, all donated to benefit The Joffrey Ballet, with one piece selling for $2,500! Co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella planned a night to remember that raised over $33,000. DJ Sadie Woods kept the crowd fueled for fun along with delicious food catered by Blog 4 - Joffrey dancers-artist Matthew Adamczyk and Joanna WozniakWolfgang Puck. Stay tuned for next year’s event – every year is bigger than the last for this creative Joffrey Junior Board! (Fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)
 
Blog 1 - GM Rich Varnes stands guard (Chicago Magazine pic)And is our town a winning city or what?! Huge congrats to RL Restaurant! They were recently honored by BusinessWeek as having one of the "Most Powerful Tables in America." There were only four mentioned (the others were Michael’s Blog 2 - RL Restaurantin NY, Terrace at Sunset Tower in LA and Prime One Twelve in Miami) and RL also nabbed Forbes honors for being one of the "Top 10 Tables in the Country for a Power Lunch." (Others included the Polo Lounge in LA and The Palm in Washington, D.C.) Table 68, here I come! 
 
Blog 1 - Catering Director Greg Hyder takes home the gold!And speaking of wins, another huge congrats goes out to the Peninsula Chicago and Catering Director Greg Hyder! The Special Events Gala and the 11th Annual Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence both took place this past weekend and the Blog 2 - The award winning Peninsula lobbyPeninsula Chicago was honored to be nominated for various awards at each event. Greg took home the award for Best Event Produced by a Hotel in 2011 for their 10 Year Anniversary Party which, if you weren’t there, WAS BEYOND BELIEF! (Check it out here!) The Pen’s wine director Michael Muser also won Best Sommelier at the Jean Banchet Awards at the Fairmont Hotel Friday night. WOWZA!
 
Jerrod and RJ MelmanThere is also a huge restaurateur collaboration in the works for a country/western bar/restaurant concept coming to 435 N. Clark St. in the summer of 2012. RJ and Jerrod Melman have teamed up with Joe’s Bar owners Ed Warm and Tom DiSanto for what is sure to be a new hotspot. Expect to hear the best in country music (possibly live) while grabbing a beer and enjoying southern-inspired dishes and authentic barbecue! OMG, I will be waiting at the door! Congrats to these powerhouses and thanks for bringing even more excitement to our beloved Windy City! 

SaksSaks Fifth Avenue is hosting a BIG month for charity in February! Titled “Support Your Choice of Charities @Saks,” this event will run from Feb. 1st thru the 29th and offer customers the opportunity to donate 5% of their Saks card purchases to the Service Club of Chicago, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Pathways Foundation, A Better Chicago and Children's Memorial Hospital
 
YAH_logoYappy days are here again! You know what a nut I am about animals: I am proud to be on the PAWS Development Board and I support any other animal oriented events so it is with great pleasure that I tell you about my latest find: YOUNG AT HEART PET Blog 3 - Mimi, 8 year old ChihuahuaRESCUE! Devoted board member Arlene Burkhardt contacted me recently about their upcoming event in June but what I learned about this rescue group is that they are the only rescue in Chicagoland that is exclusively dedicated to rescuing and rehoming SENIOR DOGS AND CATS (aka Blog 4 - Marshall, 8 yr. old rat terrieranimals over the age of 5). Now we all know it’s not as hard to find forever homes for puppies and kittens but what about those dogs with a little grey around the muzzle but whose hearts were young and whose love knew no bounds or cats who lounged around pretending Oscar_wagsto be hard of hearing until the whir of the can opener proved otherwise? THESE are the pets Young at Heart concentrates on and I am thrilled! Even when their medical needs prove too daunting for their adoption program, they are never turned away…instead, they find their happily ever after in one of YAH’s Sanctuary Homes. (Please visit www.yahpetrescue.com to find out more and mark your calendars now for their Wags to Wishes Auction Dinner & Benefit on June 16th at The Meadows Club.)
 
Proposed-Ronald-McDonald-House---Streeterville_rgbAnd now for an update on the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House! The Grand Opening will be on Tuesday, June 26th celebrated with a fabulous ceremony at the House and a FUN party so stay tuned for details. But, in the meantime, they need LOTS of volunteers to help them move in Model Room Professional Photo 4and set up the House during the first few weeks of June. Unpack, set up the kitchen and linen closets, bedrooms and library – just like moving into a new home, only this one will be 14 STORIES HIGH! Anyone interested, please call Anne at their Lincoln Park House at 773.348.5322. RMHC needs YOU! 🙂
 
I was so thrilled to be back on "Windy City Live" this week – the Chat Desk with Ryan and Val is the coolest place to be! My segment was cut short due to the untimely and sad death of Don Cornelius but I hope this just means they'll have me back! Thanks for a great time and a huge congrats to executive producer Marlaine Selip on this incredible show!

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Marion, Michelle and Tony DurpettiWell, this is some of the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights! I hope you’re enjoying our unseasonable season and please check in next week when I will be bringing you Lyric Opera and exclusive Gene & Georgetti’s 70th Anniversary Party coverage plus a whole lot more!
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
Hope Bertram (L) and friend Jen WaltersP.S. Congrats to Facebook winner Hope Bertram on her event suggestions! I hope you had a great time at the Launch Party!!

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