Tag Archives: Brian Atwood

April 4, 2013 · 11:59 am

COMMON’S ‘UN-COMMON’ STAR-FILLED FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ELDA’S ODE TO SPRING; BLUE MASQUE BALL; GIORDANO DANCE CHICAGO CELEBRATES 50; JENNY MCCARTHY’S “RESCUE OUR ANGELS”; ART INSTITUTE’S “NIGHT HEIST”; COOL, CHRIS AND FLORIDA PARTY IN MIAMI; JOE’S BAR WINS BIG; ULTA BEAUTY’S CARRIE AND MOLLY PARTY WITH NAOMI, KAROLINA AND NIGEL; PALM BEACH POLO ANYONE?; WONKA BALL; PUPPY MILLS BE GONE!; TEA AND FASHION WITH SARAH WOOD; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN-TV; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!  
 

1 - Magic, the Mayor and CommonIt was no wonder the Common Ground Gala was a sell-out at the Four Seasons on March 23rd! Who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders – or even be in the same room – with the legendary Earvin “Magic” Johnson and rapper-turned-actor-turned-author Common (aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn)? I was so excited to be covering this major event for my
2 - Milo Dodson, Magic, Common and Lamman Rucker with CGF Dreamers and Believers Summer Camp KidsWatch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” but was a bit surprised that there wasn’t more press in attendance for the VIP red carpet portion of the event. Mind you, I’m not complaining and in reality, this was reserved for the night’s honorees so I know they wanted to keep this
3 - Red Carpet VIPsportion of the evening manageable. I was also surprised to see Magic Johnson not only arrive on time for the red carpet interviews but to arrive FIVE MINUTES EARLY! No wonder this guy is such a success: Besides being a Hall of Fame
4 - Magic offering his BIG auction packagebasketball player and able to play every single position on the court, his business acumen is legendary. Presented by Coca-Cola, this third annual event honored Magic, Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas, Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand and raised over $350,000. This colorful and inspiring group of honorees was selected based on their
5 - Common’s mother, Dr. Mahalia Ann Hine and Common (after Magic raised $100K in live auction!)service, impactful lives and unprecedented career success. Though honoree Gabby Douglas was unable to attend, she sent a video expressing how thrilled she was and concluded playfully with energetic footage of her family and friends doing the Harlem Shake. Emceed by ABC 7’s Cheryl Burton and actor Lamman Rucker, the event was exciting from
6 - Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo with Commonbeginning to end but perhaps the most breathtaking moment came when Magic raised more than $100,000 with a live auction package he donated in the first few minutes of the event. Cheryl Burton started off the bidding at $20K for seven floor seats to a Laker’s game, seven signed throwback jerseys and a private dinner with Magic. It sold three times for $90K with Magic adding
7 - Co-host Lamman Rucker and Commonanother $10K for an even $100K donation! WOW, right? Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand graciously accepted their awards and pledged their support to the Common Ground Foundation’s Summer Youth Camp. They praised
8 - Red Carpet Host and NBC reporter, Michele Relerford and CGF Gala event planner, Erika JordanCommon, highlighting his authenticity and commitment, noting how truly “uncommon” he is. Six teens from the Common Ground Foundation’s “Dreamers and Believers Mentoring Program” spoke movingly about how important and life changing the summer camp and year-round mentoring has been for each of them.
9 - The Four Seasons BallroomAll proceeds from the black tie event benefited Common’s non-profit organization, the Common Ground Foundation (CGF). Additional attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Jim Reynolds (Loop Capital), co-chairs Les Coney (Mesirow Financial) and Juanita Jordan (Vanoy Jordan Enterprises), red capet host Michelle Releford (NBC 5), Andre Johnson (Magic Johnson Enterprises), Melody Spann-Cooper (WVON), Andrea Zopp (CEO, Chicago Urban League),  Nina and Bob Mariano, Jeanne
10 - CGF guestsSparrow (co-host WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning”), Marc Brooks, Terri
11 - Common and CGF Exec. Director Tamara BrownMariano, Tamara Brown and Derek Dudley among many others. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction reception (with a highlight being an ALL-access trip to the Grammys), live performance by Chicago Soul Centric (featuring Aziza Lisa), dinner and dancing. The evening was followed by an after-party at the Hard Rock Hotel.


12 - Honorees Everett Rand and Timothy Rand with CommonIn order to pay homage to honorees that have achieved success all while impacting communities in a significant way, the Common Ground Foundation began hosting the gala in an effort to highlight the accomplishments of key influencers and help fund the organization. Last year’s
13 - With darling WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” co-host Jeanne Sparrowevent honored legendary and famous activist and actor Harry Belafonte as well as executive vice president of the Boeing Corporation James A. Bell, Chicago Bear and youth advocate Israel Idonije and CEO and founder of MillionDollar$cholar Derrius Quarles. “I started the Common Ground Foundation because I wanted to help, most of all to help people help
14 - Interviewing Magic and Common for Watch312themselves. I always believed if we started with the youth, then we would be planting the seeds for our future to blossom,” says Common. Love this guy! To learn more about this incredible organization, please click here! To see ALL of the fun from this wonderful night, please watch my video below! Magic and Common give some great advice to Chicago’s youth and Magic tells us just what he thinks about Chicago so let me take YOU to the party!

 


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1 - Designer Elda de la Rosa surrounded by fansBeloved designer Elda de la Rosa presented her 2013 Spring collection, titled “La Vie en Rose,” on March 19th in the Avenues Ballroom of the beautiful Peninsula Hotel. Elda had been working hard for months getting her beautiful designs
2 - Pretty coming AND going!ready for the runway and her hard work paid off as the SRO crowd oohed and aahed for every model who sashayed down the salon-style runway. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracy Tarantino, the event’s host committee included Jean Antoniou, Toni Canada, Diana Palomar, Dusty Stemer, Tracy, Tasia June Travlos, Moira Tuffy and
3 - Host committee members and supportersMarsha Brenner. Elda’s honorary committee included many politicos including Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Senator Heather Steans, State Rep Kelly Cassidy, Aldermen Patrick O’Connor and Harry Osterman and Committeewoman Carol Ronen. ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez, a longtime friend of Elda’s, served as emcee wearing a stunning blue Elda gown. I was thrilled to be a model along with Greg Hyder, Jean Antoniou, Diana Palomar, Patricia Gillman,
4 - As pretty on the inside as it is on the outside!Moira Tuffy, Nancy Meyerson, Kathy
5 -Tracy Tarantino, Frances Renk and Sheryl DyerBurke and Minister Blaine Moulton. The evening began with a silent auction and reception in the Grant Park Room. At 8 p.m., the show began in the ballroom with Sylvia welcoming the crowd. She introduced Chanel style consultant Randolph Tovar who talked about his fashion inspirations and how style influences us. Then, the lights dimmed and the classic French song by Edith Piaf, “La Vie en Rose,” began to play. Sylvia repeated a line from the song, “When he takes me in his arms and speaks softly to me, I see life in rosy hues, he tells me
6words of love, words of every day and, in them, I become something.” She went on to say, “A woman who wears Elda de la Rosa does indeed ‘become
7 - Elda de la Rosa Spring 2013something,’ something very special, gorgeous, beautiful and radiant.” And then the show began!  Every woman was a star as she glided down the runway in her Elda creation. The finale was the gorgeous wedding gown worn by Jordan Stemer at her recent nuptials. All of the proceeds from the event benefited the programs and work of the Edgewater Development Corp., an organization dedicated to working with Chicago’s small business entrepreneurs. Congrats again Elda on a beautiful collection! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins and David Stephens…view more here!)
 

1 - Honorary Chairs Tom and Susanna NegovanThe Greek America Foundation presented its second annual Blue Masque Ball, a fundraising event to benefit charities in debt-stricken Greece, at the Blackstone Hotel on March 16th. This year’s honorary chairs
2 - Constantine Maroulis and glam friendwere Emmy Award-winning journalist Tom Negovan and his wife, Splash editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, Susanna Negovan. The couple brought years of support to local charities of the Greek America Foundation and Susanna was excited to support and honor her Greek heritage. The entire ballroom was transformed into a casino gaming floor with blackjack, craps and roulette tables dotting the room. All proceeds
3 - Jane Monzures and fab friendfrom the ball, which brought together the best of traditional Greek Mardi Gras celebrations in Casino Royale style, benefited Project Hope for Greece. This is a new initiative launched by the Greek America Foundation to support a
4wide range of accredited charity-driven institutions in Greece that are struggling to solve the problems of its people amidst the country’s worst economic crisis since World War II. Proceeds will be shared with various charities and organizations that have a proven track record of offering support to the country. Ellison Sunglasses CEO Aristotle Loumis served as the Young Professionals Chair.  Celebrity guests included Constantine Maroulis of “American Idol” fame and
5 - Christos Garkinos (2nd from L), Amanda Puck (R) and friendsnow performing in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde”; Christos Garkinos of
8Decades and BravoTV’s new reality show “Dukes of Melrose” who was joined by Amanda Puck;  Evangeline Goutelas of CITE Restaurant and Skyline Equities and Paula Fasseas of PAWS Chicago. DJ John Grammatis kept the lounge jumpin’ with nonstop music and
6 - Beautiful revelersdancing. Founded in 1997, the Greek America Foundation’s mission is to “promote, preserve and perpetuate Greek culture, history and heritage in North America.” For more info on this wonderful non-profit, please visit greekamerica.org. Congrats Susanna and Tom!

 


1 - Giordano Dance Chicago Giordano Dance Chicago celebrated its BIG 50th anniversary at the Harris Theater with a Gala Benefit (presented by the Boeing Company) on March 23rd. Pam Crutchfield served as honorary chair for this
2 - Kip Helverson and Nan Giordanospecial event, with choreographer to the stars Liz Imperio serving as artistic chair. The benefit drew 275 people and raised $100,000 for GDC and their programs. VIP gala ticket holders began their evening with an intimate pre-show
3 - Irwin and Harriet Ross and friendbackstage Signature Experience, including an in-the-wings champagne toast while viewing the final last-minute on-stage dancer preparations, followed by a backstage buffet dinner and conversation with artistic
4 - ason McLenaghan, Paul Iacono, Katie McLenaghan, Cindy Burns, JoeAnna LaCourse, Kip Helverson, Neal Steinerdirector Nan Giordano, Crutchfield and Imperio. As a special treat, they also had the chance to be part of “Circle,” GDC’s inspirational pre-performance ritual, moments before the dancers took the stage. The performance featured the
4 - David Helverson and Alana Helverson-Klimkowskipremiere of Imperio’s “La Belleza de Cuba” plus works from the GDC critically-acclaimed repertoire. Each work was preceded by video introductions, created by HMS Media from recent and archival GDC video and photos, providing historical content and
5 - Sanjay Sharma (L) and friendsilluminating the company’s extraordinary achievements. At 9:30 p.m., following the performance, gala attendees were escorted to the Pritzker Pavilion stage where they took in the dazzling view of Chicago’s Millennium Park nighttime skyline
6 - Giordano Dance’s Martin Ortiz Tapia and friendwhile mingling with GDC dancers and alum, enjoying an exquisite buffet catered by Cork Catering and Special Events and listening to live music by the George McRae Trio. “We knew this golden anniversary celebration was going to be special but on so many levels the results far
6exceeded our expectations,” says GDC artistic director Nan Giordano. “A lion’s share of the credit goes to our incredible benefit chairs and committee, who, along with our hardworking staff, selflessly poured their heart and soul into
7 - Nan Giordano being congratuledthis event. We are extremely grateful to everyone who joined us for this evening, the memory of which is something I will remember and cherish forever. It was an incredible tribute to my late father, Gus Giordano, and all who have supported us
8throughout our 50 years.” GDC is one of the longest running professional dance companies in Chicago and one of the very few dance companies in the U.S. to have achieved this half-century milestone. This achievement was recognized on the cover of the March 2013 edition of Dance Magazine.

 

1 - The Doyle family with Jenny McCarthy Televions star, model, actress and hometown girl Jenny McCarthy hosts the 6th Annual Rescue Our Angels event to support her nonprofit Generation Rescue, raise awareness of autism and generate funds to support families dealing with an autism diagnosis. McCarthy – whose son Evan has recovered from autism – is president of Generation
2Rescue and an advocate for children with autism and their families. The exclusive party will feature red carpet arrivals for VIP guests, remarks by McCarthy honoring Chicago couple Michele and Pete Doyle (founders of the event) and an “experience zone” – a hands-on way for guests to better understand the sensitivities that children on the autism spectrum experience. In addition to McCarthy, more than 400 VIP guests are expected to be in attendance, including Jacqueline and Chris Laurita (“Real Housewives of New Jersey”), Doug
3 - Michelle and Pete Doyle and familyClerget (“The Bachelorette”), Alexis Wineman (2013 People’s Choice Winner, Miss America), Colette Davis (open wheel driver), Heath Frisby (X Games snowmobile medalist) and Madi Wolf (singer). Tickets to the event are $100 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, entertainment and access to a live auction of incredible prizes. A limited number of VIP booths are available for purchase, too. For tickets, visit rescueourangels.com or click here.


Art Institute Night Heist logoThe Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago’s annual fundraising event, “Night Heist”, returns for its third year to the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court on April 26th from 8 to 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Art Institute’s major exhibition Picasso and Chicago – a celebration of the work of Picasso, his connections to the city and his enduring influence. Event includes live music, entertainment, themed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. General admission tickets are $95 (price to increase after 4/19) and the VIP Night Heist Experience (includes a one-hour reception beginning at 7 p.m.) is $150. For tickets and more info, please click here! 


1 - Cool with his birthday cakeRecently, Chris Brown, FloRida and Hennessy V.S put on a show at Dream nightclub in Miami, all to celebrate the birthday of super producer Cool, from Cool & Dre. Chris Brown hit the stage and performed a slew of his hits including, “Look At Me Now” and “No Bullsh*t.” The singer put on a complete show, showcasing his
2 - Chris Brown and his abs performingsignature dance moves and even showing off his rock hard abs. Rapper FloRida also hit the stage to celebrate Cool’s birthday and even helped lead the crowd in a “Happy Birthday” chant for the producer. Cool, huh? 🙂 (Photos by Humberto Cruz…view more pics here!)


Randolph St Market April adChicago Vintage Market pioneer Sally Schwartz is thrilled to announce Randolph Street Market’s Modern Vintage Chicago spring installation will return to the West Loop’s Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) on April 20th and 21st. Recognized as one of the top three vintage shows in the country, this bi-annual event comes just in time to add vintage flair to spring and summer wardrobes that will turn heads! Offering the
Modern Vintage Chicago-Randolph St. market adbest selection of jewelry, clothing and accessories vendors from across the Midwest, as well as Atlanta, NYC, Texas, Minneapolis and Philadelphia for men and women, this event is not to be missed! Among its 90+ vendors, new to the Market this year is the talented, Danielle Colby of “American Pickers” fame. Danielle will bring her vintage wares from her Wicker Park boutique, 4 Miles 2 Memphis, as well as perform with her burlesque troupe, Burlesque Le’Moustache. For more info, visit modernvintagechicago.com, call 312-666-1200 or email info@modernvintagechicago.com.
 

1 - Cellist Ian Makin and Marisa BuchheitThe SPRING AWAKENING Fashion Show didn’t herald the advent of spring but it did provide a beautiful night inside the warm greenhouse at City Escape Garden Center & Design Studio in the West Loop recently.
2 - Borris Powell and Jeff ConwayHosted by Benjamin Cottrell and Shari Duffy, this event offered VIP guests the opportunity to stroll the gardens during the champagne reception, shop City Escapes’ unique gifts and listen to the sound of Miss Heart Illinois 2013,
5 - Monika Wiela, Benjamin Cottrell and Shari DuffyMarisa Buchheit. The show opened with a performance by the Candid Concert Opera Company as models strutted the runway in designs by Stix & Roses, LH Couture, Tres Haute Chic, Just Class Jewelry and StyleUp Girl
8 - Models serenaded by Ian MakinShoes. World renowned cellist Ian Makin serenaded the models down the garden inspired runway. A portion of the proceeds benefitted Chicago Gateway Green. TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. (Photos by Jun Nagano.)

 

LogoCongratulations are in order for Joe’s Bar on Weed St. (940 W. Weed St) owner Ed Warm: His Chicago venue – known for hosting some of the biggest names in country music – has just been named Nightclub of the Year by the Academy of Country Music!!!
Ed WarmWarm, whose keen ear for emerging talent has earned him immense respect within the Nashville music scene, is also taking home honors as Promoter of the Year. (This is the third time Joe’s has been named Nightclub of the Year but the first win for Warm as Promoter of the Year.) Huge congrats on these much deserved wins! (The 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on April 7th).
 

1 - Ulta Beauty’s Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat with Nigel BarkerTalk about a dream job! ULTA Beauty Director of Public Relations Carrie Lannon and ULTA Beauty Director of Trend Development Molly Sloat partied with supermodel Naomi Campbell
3 - Karolina Kurkovaand Nigel Barker in New York during the filming of their hit show, “The Face.” (The finale episode was March 26th.) I sure hope to see this cool model driven show return soon! The show, hosted by Nigel Barker, followed three supermodel coaches (Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova and Naomi) as they
4 - Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat at the premiere of “The Face”competed with each other to find “the face” of ULTA Beauty. Carrie and Molly worked with Nigel, Naomi, Coco and Karolina and appeared on the final episode as they chose the winner of the show: Twenty-one-year-old Devyn Abdullah from Team Kurkova became the first Face of
2 - Coco Rocha, Nigel Barker and Naomi CampbellUlta Beauty! She will appear in its ads, go to Fashion Week and make personal appearances in ULTA Beauty stores. Congrats to Devyn, Carrie and Molly! If you need an assistant, you know who to call! 


AntonioSabatoJrAnd now for some exciting news from Palm Beach! The USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship is a four-week, 26-goal tournament that will finalize its 10th Anniversary Season at the International Polo Club. The
LizAnnHamptonCallowayaction began on March 31st and will continue on April 7th, 14th and 21st, showcasing the world’s most elite, high-goal players and the finest polo ponies. As one can imagine, the celebrity line-up is impressive and will include heartthrob Antonio Sabato, Jr., Emmy Award winner Liz Calloway, actress Ann Hampton Callaway, American Idol’s Brooke Eden and a perfect “10”
BrookeEdenBo Derek.  Country music star Lee Greenwood will
LeeGreenwood1perform “God Bless the USA” before the final match on April 21st. This high-goal polo action takes place every Sunday through April 21st, with tickets starting at $10 for general admission and up to $120 for box seating. Tickets for the lavish Sunday brunch at The
BoDerekPavilion and its reception start at $65 going upward to $330 for the Veuve Clicquot brunch package for two. Tickets can be purchased online at InternationalPoloClub.com or by calling 561.204.5687. Anybody up for a few good chukkers? 🙂
 

Poster with 4 sponsors_800x615The Puppy Mill Project is proud to be honoring the “Mothers in the Mills” at their annual fundraiser on May 11th at John Barleycorn River North (149 W. Kinzie) from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The evening will raise awareness about the cruel and inhumane conditions that dogs endure in puppy mills. Chicago fan-favorite band, Out of Control, will perform, a buffet dinner will be served, and guests will enjoy a silent auction and live raffle. This benefit is held annually on Mother’s Day weekend to honor and bring attention to all female (mother) dogs held captive in the mills who are forced to breed until they are no longer profitable to the breeder. The mission of TPMP is to educate the public about puppy mills, while advocating for legislative reform and facilitating the rescue of mill dogs. “The proceeds from the Mothers in The Mills benefit will
Out of Control Bandeducate and expose the truth about this cruel and inhumane industry that people are unknowingly supporting when purchasing pets through pet shops, the internet and newspaper ads,” says founder Cari Meyers. “We will never stop fighting for the freedom of the mill dogs.” I wish them the best of luck. Tickets are $100 per person ($125 at the door) and can be purchased here. 
 

WonkaBall-2About Face Theatre celebrates its 17th year with a three-ring party of entertainment at the Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus
Circusmaximus_WEB2-214x300on April 26th beginning at 8 p.m. (For those interested, a Ringmaster’s VIP cocktail party begins at 7 p.m.) AFT’s premier fundraiser, hosted by About Face board members Benjamin Sprunger and Billy Lullo, combines the surprising delights of the Big Top with
WonkaBall-4the inspired grandeur of this year’s venue, Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood). For tickets ($135) and more info, please visit aboutfacetheatre.com or call 773.784.8565.
 

Hats Off to the Girls We Love inviteDon’t miss “Hats Off to Girls We Love,” a tea and fashion presentation hosted by the dynamic Sarah Wood benefitting the Wood Family Foundation on April 27th at 2 p.m. at Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Author Cynthia Bardes will be a special guest. Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for kids up to age 12. For more info, please click here or call 312-924-9234. (And I can’t WAIT to tell you what Sarah and Kerry are planning for August! OMG! They are both heroes at giving back! 🙂


WGN segment 3-13Thanks so much to WGN-TV for having me on to discuss my FIVE top event picks for April! I won’t tell but hope you’ll watch it here! Thanks to my sweet friend Marissa Rudman for this clip – just love her!


1Don’t miss the latest edition of A Perfect Event’s E-Mag – Debi Lilly has done it again assembling the best of the best to contribute to her beyond beautiful magazine! I’m so proud to have an
2 - Nate and Nancy Golden before going to boarding schoolarticle (“Things Our Mothers Taught Us”) included! This Mother’s Day feature offers words of wisdom from the mothers of comedian Tom Dreesen,
3 - Tom Dreesen and his mom Glenore (Algoe) Dreesenphilanthropist and football star Israel Idonije, television star/author/designer Nate Berkus, super chef Art Smith, shoe god Brian Atwood and media darling Val Warner. I’m not one bit surprised why these special people became who they are – it’s advice everyone can use! Congrats to contributors Amanda Puck, Eric Himel, Matt Savage, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Elaina Vazquez and Corey Amaro, among others. ALL great reads here (my article appears on pages 26 & 27)!  And a special thanks
6 - My mom Elsa Mae Stott and me in a Rosemary Fanti drawingto friend/artist Rosemary Fanti for this wonderful image of my mom Elsa Stott and me in South Beach where some of our best memories happened! She was my best friend. 🙂 (Check out more pics here!)


With Shantell Jamison at VocaloAnd, last but not least, I was so thrilled to be interviewed on Vocalo/NPR radio by Shantell Jamison for her (ahem) “Wise Woman of the Week” segment…I know, I know. Hear it here, if you want!

Hope you all have spring in your hearts even if it isn’t here in reality and I hope you enjoy this week’s Candid Candace!
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

 


Amy Tara Koch, Molly Each, Jared Hatch, Greg Hyder, Kevin Aeh, JC Steinbrunner, Amalie DruryP.S. Congrats to the Peninsula Chicago and Greg Hyder on the fabulous party held in honor of Conde Nast Traveler’s special April feature, “The Grand Tour of Asia.” As always, it was a perfect event! (Want to see more pics? Just click here!)

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September 25, 2012 · 9:38 pm

CHESHIRE CAT SMILES ALL AROUND FOR OFFICE MAX’S GREEN TIE BALL!

…PLUS 30/30/30 FOR TCW MAG, BRIAN ATWOOD’S A-LIST PARTY, HENSON’S HIGH HONOR, HORSING AROUND AT THE EVERGREEN INVITATIONAL, PRIMO CLASSICO, HARRIS THEATER’S ONE NIGHT COUP, GOLD COAST FASHION AWARDS RETURNS, LATINO FASHION WEEK, CHEF ERIC LANLARD WANTS TO “TART IT UP!,” A MAGICAL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Guests with Red Moon Theater actorsThe Office Max Green Tie Ball just keeps getting bigger and better! I didn’t think they could top last year’s theme – “The Wizard of Oz” – but with the fantastic addition of Red Moon Theater Company, “Alice in Wonderland” came Blog 2 - Joanna and Grant DePorterto life this year for more than 3,000 guests. From the moment you entered the steel factory grounds of A. Finkl & Sons, you knew magic was afoot when you walked the GREEN carpet! Dramatic visuals thrilled your senses everywhere you looked beginning with striking artwork from this classic book streaming down the sides of the Blog 3 - Emcee Val Warner with the Landon Twinstent as you entered the grounds. The Mad Hatter’s tent made me gasp as I saw oversized lamps and fabulous scenes projected on every wall. And the FOOD! There were more than 70 food stations and I don’t mean little tastings: This was REAL food prepared by Blog 4 - Interviewing Pete Wentz and girlfriend Meagan Camperchefs who wanted to be noticed. Rub BBQ Company served a BBQ martini consisting of coleslaw, cornbread, baker beans and smoked pork shoulder all in one cup! Zapatista’s carnitas on rice flower tortillas with jalapenos was mouthwatering and Flo & Santos served ravarogi (meat pierogies) with vodka Blog 5 - Sarah Cooley (2nd from R), Richard Roeper and friendscream sauce. Thank goodness I didn’t get to ALL 70 restaurants, although I did see great stuff from Frog & Snail, GT Fish & Oyster, III Forks, Rosebud, 25 Degrees, Province, Frontier and Public House. I was especially touched by Blog 6 - Jerry Roeper and David Lissnerthe offerings from the sweet kids from Bethlehem Lutheran Church who were on hand from the After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program. Proud ASM Culinary Director/Chef Gloria Hafer said, “These students are special to us and I know they will succeed because of the Blog 7 - After School Matters students with their creationsconcern of the people here who have taken an interest in the program. I’m working diligently through ASM to promote self-esteem, excellence, and appreciation of the culinary arts.” Students in the program prepared, displayed and served more Blog 8 - Shari and Paul Duffythan 2,000 “Alice in Wonderland”-themed cookies and cakes. I watch a lot of master chef shows and these kids could teach them a thing or two from what I saw on this night. Shannon Roche, Gisel Bahena, Abigail Garcia, Lily Harris and Omar Cardenas proudly displayed their works of art and told me how Blog 9important the program was to them. Gisel plans on working in the culinary arts and Omar was happy to have a place to go that would keep him “off the streets.” Abigail commented on the fun she had and how much she loved learning how to Blog 10 - Zac Stemer and Jordan Stemercook. This was sheer genius by the event organizers to add these kids so they could highlight this worthy organization! Of the 50 world-renowned chefs invited to this event, After School Matters was the only teen initiative asked to participate. The event was emceed for the second year by Blog 11 - Elena Samokhina and magical friend“Windy City Live” hosts Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini. When I interviewed them for Watch312.com, they were so excited about expanding to the weekend, with a Sunday edition coming soon. Ryan jokingly said, “You will be sick of us soon like my parents.” They are too cute for words, as we Blog 12 - Susan and John Collettiall know! Corri McFadden, glam e-Drop Off founder and star of VH1’s “House of Consignment,” and Donald Storino, principal and co-founder of the government affairs firm Fidelity Consulting Group, served as co-chairs. This Blog 13 - DJ Rock Cityevent benefitted Chicago Gateway Green, which was founded by Donald DePorter in 1986. His son, Grant DePorter, President of Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group and Chairman of Gateway Green, carries on his father’s tradition in grand style. “As Gateway Green’s Blog 14signature fundraising event, the Green Tie Ball not only raises our mission but also serves as the catalyst for our ongoing beautification programs, including the Expressway Partnership, for which proceeds from this year’s gala will be directed.” The night also Blog 15included top notch dance music from deejays Justin Jacobson (founder and impresario of Platinum Events), Rock City and former Fall Out Boy bassist and half of the Black Cards duo, Pete Wentz. He showed up on the green carpet around 9:45 p.m. with gorgeous arm candy, Meagan Camper. My friend and celebrity stylist Eric Himel styled them both to perfection saying, “For
Co-chair Corri McFadden and friendPete, I wanted to do something different other than rocker attire.” Wentz was decked out in a fabulous forest green suit from Oak Street’s SuitSupply with a Blog 17 - Agnes Miles and Catie Keoghbow tie. When I asked him how he liked his outfit, he said, “I feel a little Farrakhan-ish but that’s okay, I'm a fan.” He was dancing and tweeting pics of the crowd as he deejayed. So cute! Meagan was in a sleek black dress from Top Shop with green Alexis Bittar earrings. Such a stylish pair! I loved Eric’s Blog 18outfit, too, that featured a green skull necklace on a leather cord from Beatnik's, a great store in Lakeview. Entertainment included live performances from Chicago cover bands Dr. Bombay Blog 19 - Brenda Arelano and Lisa Apratiand South of 80. Co-host Ryan Chiaverini thrilled the crowd when he got onstage to sing his now signature song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The Rivers Casino tent featured craps, blackjack and roulette. There was also a Red Moon bubble-blowing, mobile DJ, Blog 20 - Charitable gambling courtesy of Rivers Casinoan Office Max photo booth filled with “Alice in Wonderland” props and “Hawk Man,” who hovered over the crowd on a 20-foot crane flapping his massive, feathered wings (also from Red Moon). Partygoers happily fell right down the Blog 21 - “Hawk Man” from Red Moon Theater Companyrabbit hole at this party! Executive producer for this magical night was “The Food Dude,” David Lissner, who is also a board member of Chicago Gateway Green. This magical night raised $450K to benefit Chicago Gateway Green. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…to see other photos in my Chicago Tribune column by Beth Rooney, please click here and to see all of the magic, WATCH my Watch312.com video right HERE!)

 

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Blog 1 - Brian Atwood with Heidi Klum and Rachel ZoeHandsome shoe god Brian Atwood celebrated his new campaign and first flagship store at 655 Madison Avenue in New York with a star-filled celebration at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Wednesday, September 5th. More than 700 guests mixed Blog 2 - Proud mom Dusty congratulates Brianwith A-list celebs as DJ Mick Boogie played hot mixes but nothing could be hotter than the sky high heels so coveted around the globe by this charming designer who is adored by all. Since its 2001 debut, the Brian Atwood Collection has instilled shoe lust in a legion of fans for its infusion of glamour, exquisite Blog 3 - Kim Kardashian with Brian Atwoodcraftsmanship, hyperluxe design and attention to detail. His award-winning styles have earned him the CDA Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for Best Accessory Design and the 2010 Footwear News Designer of the Year Award. His first global campaign this past summer, a print campaign and Blog 4 - Handsome life partners Dr. Jake Deutsch and Briancompanion fashion film tell the story of the modern woman's desire for fantasy and control. The new fall print and video campaign were shot together in London by Mert & Marcus with creative direction by Giovanni Bianco and feature supermodel Candice Swanepoel. The fashion film, The Sex is in the Heel video series, is a voyeuristic flashback by a mysterious seductress reliving the Blog 5 - Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, cute friend and Jordan Stemerprevious night's fantasy and will be a part of the film section on the newly redesigned website. I imagine this is exactly how women feel after a night of wearing a pair of Brian Atwoods! In honor of the evening, DeLeon Tequila presented four signature cocktails: Maniac, The Sex Blog 7 - Heidi Klum having fun with Brian!is in the Heel, Midnight Purple and The Atwood. Ahhhhhh, so cute! Guests seen at the celebration included Heidi Klum, Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Rachel Roy, Ryan Lochte, Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Nate Berkus, Hannah Bronfman, Estelle, Gabrielle Union, Katie Lee, Candice Swanepoel, Giovanni Bianco, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, proud parents Yolanda (Dusty) and Dr. Alex Stemer, Blog 6 - Zak Stemer, Ryan Lochte, Stephanie WeissAbby and Dr. Jim Lipton, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina Mariano, beautiful sister Jordan Stemer and Jackson Miranda, darling brother Zack Stemer, longtime friend milliner Loreta Corsetti, Peter Kousothanos, Nina Aversa, Stephanie Weiss, Andi Laidlaw, Cameron Laidlaw, Jerimiah and Brian's handsome husband, Dr. Jake Deutsch. It was a joy-filled affair filled with beautiful people. Long may you reign, Shoe God Brian Atwood – can't wait for your first store opening at 655 Madison Avenue coming October 4th!!!

Blog 1I love TCW Magazine and I’m so thrilled to be celebrating their 30th
anniversary with them on October 30th with a party benefitting 30 charities in town that assist women and children in Blog 2need! Leave it to Sherren Leigh to come up with this clever idea for her party which will also include a silent auction called Pumpkins on Parade. Faux “funkin” pumpkins will be decorated by local “celebrities” to be auctioned off.  I must say she corralled me for this funkin decorating and I tried but had to relinquish my duties to my dear friend (and crafty Blog 3 - Tissy Eggleston, my “Funkin” carving savior!genius), Tissy Eggleston. So, even though I will have a pumpkin entered, just know it was a collaborative effort! LOL! There will also be an open bar, food stations, a live band with guests encouraged to wear costumes. Tickets are $150 and I know this will be ONE event you shouldn’t miss! Happy birthday, TCW!

Kathleen HensonPR News recently awarded a BIG honor to Chicago’s own Kathleen Henson and her creative Henson Consulting firm with National Small PR Firm of the Year! They also won nationally for best Anniversary Campaign for 373141_60075977775_1321684491_nLettuce Entertain You’s 40th anniversary last summer. Kathleen started her firm 12 years ago in her basement with just a laptop, a phone and a rolodex after her first child, Emily (she now has FIVE!) was only nine months old! I can’t wait to see where this dynamic redhead with a heart of gold flies to next! Congrats to you KH and to Henson Consulting on all of your great work!

 

Blog 1 - Christy Cressey, host MK Pritzker and friendA venerable who’s who of Chicago traveled north to the private 230-acre Evergreen Farm owned by JB and MK Pritzker on Saturday, September 6th, to witness one of the Midwest’s most esteemed equestrian events, the Evergreen Invitational. Hosted by MK and The Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Blog 2 - Neal Zucker, Nora Daley and Sean conroypresented by Northern Trust, this fourth biennial equestrian charity exclusive “by-invite-only” event attracted more than 600 guests who came to support the elegant sport and witness nationally and internationally ranked riders compete. More than $1.1 million was raised from this year’s event with proceeds benefitting under-funded women’s health programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. To Blog 3 - Laura Linback on Whittadate, the Evergreen Invitational has raised more than $4 million. The $25K Junior/Amateur Owner Classic kicked Blog 4 - Ricky, Estelle and Agatha Walgreenoff the event with Meagan Nusz winning on horse, Vesuvius. The $75K Grand Prix blue ribbon went to Laura Linback and horse Whittaker MVNZ. In between the two events, hundreds of guests were spotting enjoying the mild weather and admiring some of the exquisite Graff jewels on display or lusting after a number of Ferraris dotting the property Blog 5 - Julie Latsko, Traci and Mario Tricoci and family(which were available for test drives courtesy of Lake Forest Sportscars). A promenade of shops featured merchandise from Lee Allison Company, Escada, Fabbri Furs, Chicago Luxury Beds and Blog 6 - Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer and Julie Selakovichdozens more. A lavish buffet lunch was catered by beloved George Jewell of George Jewell Catering. Guests seen on the scene included Mimi Olson (President of the WB of Northwestern), co-chairs Joan Moore and Christy Blog 7 - Sargent familyCressey, Meredith Wood-Prince, Nora Daley with husband Sean Conroy, Mich Mag’s J.P. Anderson and Dan Uslan, Neal Zucker, Leslie Hindman and Tempel Smith, Traci and Mario Tricoci, Jr. Blog 8and family, Estelle Walgreen, Quintin Primo, Mayari Pritzker, Susan and Joe Ahern, Dr. Kris and Tricia Rooney Alden, Thea Robinson, Dean Harrison, Curt Bailey, host JB Pritzker and Dan UslanJulie Selakovich, Curt Bailey, Christy Cressey, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer, Bethany Paris, Linda Yu and Stuart Ellison, Susie and Walter Jaco
bson, Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin, Tom Cole, Denise and Adam Hoeflich and Stephen and Diane Falk. (Photos by Mariah Smith…to view more pics, please click here!)
 
Blog 1 - Hostess Shirley Ryan, Kim White (WB President), Kathleen Carbonara (Ball Co-Chair)Members of the Field Museum Women’s Board are immersing themselves in Indian culture as they prepare for the annual gala on October 13th, “The Maharaja Ball.” The gala, co-chaired by Kathleen Blog 2 - Marty Peterson, Anupy Singla, Kim White and Sandy DeromediCarbonara and Susan Faurot, will celebrate the museum’s opening of “Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts” exhibit coming in November. The exhibit is organized by the Victoria & Blog 3 - Kim White and Renee CrownAlbert Museum in London. The first of two high profile kick-off events was hosted by Patrick and Shirley Ryan at their Winnetka home with more than 50 women in attendance for the annual invitation stuffing party,
Blog 4 - Peggy Snorf, Susan McBride, Betsy Ahearne, Leslie Zentner and Marty Peterson“House in the Garden.” The second event was hosted by bestselling Indian cookbook author and former Chicago TV reporter Anupy Singla, who gave a cooking demo and prepared an Indian lunch for the Women’s Board. She schooled the Blog 5 - Ball co-chairs Kathleen Carbonara and Susan Faurot with Anupy SinglaBoard in the fine points of Indian cuisine and cooked recipes from her newest cookbook, “Vegan Indian Cooking.” A trip along Blog 6 - Stuffing invites at the Ryans'Devon Avenue for sari shopping was included! This gala is sure to be a sellout so please click here for tickets and more info. Congrats to all of the hardworking Women’s Board members!

PrimoPrimo Classico d’Italia, a benefit for the Primo Center, will take place at Diane and Quintin Primo’s home in Lake Forest on Sunday, September 30th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will be new and vintage Ferraris along with beautiful models and great Italian food prepared and donated by leading Chicago restaurants such as Pelago, Prosecco, Tocco, Florentine, Volare and Fred’s. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit homeless women and children who rely on the services of the Primo Center. For tickets and more info, please click here!

Sweet Honey in the RockWhat do you get when you combine a Grammy Award-winning female a cappella group with a youth orchestra ensemble led by President Obama’s first nominee to the National Council of the Arts? I would call it one magnificent night Sphinx Virtuosiin Chicago at the Harris Theater! On Thursday, October 4th only, they will debut a performance by Sphinx Virtuosi with Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Chicago Children’s Choir with a premiere of its new work, Affirmations for a New World. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $10 to $35! For tickets and more information, please visit www.harristheaterofchicago.org.

Gold coast fashion show imageThe 57th Gold Coast Fashion Award show, the signature fundraising event of The Children’s Service Board, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, will be at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan, on Friday afternoon, September 28th beginning at 11 a.m. with a cocktail reception. Emerging designers will compete for the coveted Gold Coast Fashion Award with audience members casting their votes. Last year’s winner, Fabiola Arias, will open the show with her fall Fabiola+Arias+Fabiola+Arias+Backstage+Fall+vvtEcXzRq9Glcollection and designers Lyn Devon, Tess Giberson, Wes Gordon, Stacy Lomnan, Misha Nonoo, Rolando Santana, Verlaine and Rubin Singer will be competing for the 2012 award.  Retail partners this year include Chalk, Mark Shale, McElroy Furs, Neiman Marcus, Perchance, Frances Heffernan and Saks Fifth Avenue. David Yurman will once again host the Grand Staircase entrance during the cocktail hour with displays of fabulous jewelry. Tickets begin at $200 and can be purchased by visiting www.gcfas.com.
 
Latino Fashion Week Save the DateNow in its sixth year, Latino Fashion Week will premier its 2012 tour with the theme “Images of Fashion.” Co-founded by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon, Jr., the tour will include Dallas, Chicago and Miami, and will honor photographers and videographers involved in the exhibition. Highlighted in the Chicago exhibit is globally renowned fashion photographer, Daniel Garriga. This five-day event will include runway shows, celebrity appearances, VIP receptions, a one-day Fashion Lounge and Expo, and much more! The Kick-Off event, “Lights, Camera, Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party,” will be at Zhou B Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th St. on Tuesday, October 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. (For tickets and more info, please call 773.865.7313 or 773.251.3329.
 
Tart-it-up-eric-lanard-e1343125285112And now someone you should know! London-based Chef Eric Lanlard is coming to the Windy City on Tuesday, October 30th, to celebrate the launch of his latest book, “Tart it Up!”(Don’t you just love this title!?) Eric is a master patissier and two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Jesus Salguiero, Chef Eric Lanlard and Naushab AhmedAwards. Having trained in France, Eric moved to London where he ran the patisserie business for Albert and Michel Roux. For the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, he was commissioned to create a recipe (The Elizabeth Sponge) for the celebration! Eric has also appeared in a number of TV series, including top Brit hit, “Glamour Puds,” that have helped him build a global fan base. He’s charming and witty with four books under his belt (so far): “Master Cakes,” “Cox,” ElizabethCake260“Cookies & Cakes,” “Cake Boy” and his latest, “Tart it Up!” Hosted by Jean Zivkovic and Don Newcomb, a champagne reception (with delicious gourmet tastings) is planned at the Ritz Carlton Club (located at 160 E. Pearson) on October 30th. So please come meet my “sweet” friend and "Tart It Up!" (For reservations – $99 – please call 312.777.1090.)
 
StarvingArtistInvitationFinal_emailThe Chicago Artists' Coalition presents its Starving Artist benefit on Saturday, October 6th at 217 N. Carpenter St. beginning at 7 p.m. Artists and chefs will be paired to inspire a dish that’s served at the event and a piece of artwork that results will be auctioned off. There will be a charcuterie battle and food installations. Participants will include food preservationist Tara Lane, artists Laura Letinsky, Jeanne Dunning, Erik Peterson, Jenny Kendler and chefs Jared Van Camp, Erling Wu-Bower and Beverly Kim. For tickets (beginning at $150), please visit www.2012starvingartist.com. 
 
Blog 1 - Keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin and Tribune’s Joycelyn WinneckeThe University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business recently hosted a day-long seminar series that included a fascinating personal branding segment with keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin (principal of Jan Anne Dubin Consulting) and Joycelyn Winnecke (Chicago Tribune vice president and Blog 2 - New Sunday Tribune Candid Candace format!associate editor). I was even more thrilled when she included me as a “Personal Branding Pro” along with Christie Hefner, Amy Guth, Cheryle Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Jeanne Gang, Ron Culp and Bridget Brennan. It was an honor to be included and introduced to the standing room only crowd! Congrats to Jan and Joyce on a thrilling talk! And speaking of the Chicago Tribune, I hope you enjoyed the new format for my Sunday Candid Candace column! 🙂
 
Muttstrut2012The 9th Annual Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR) Mutt Strutt is set for Saturday, September 29th. Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celebrity emcee of the event. (For more info, please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org.)

Dr. Sandy GoldbergThe 8th Annual Silver Lining Event will be held on Saturday, October 6th, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, located at 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., beginning at 6:30 p.m. This black tie event will be held in the Regency Ballroom and will present darling Sonya Jackson with the EVY Award! Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in honor of her late mother, A Silver Lining Foundation provides cancer resource information and outreach as well as Sterling_eventproviding funding for free screening mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women and men at seven partner hospitals. Can’t wait to celebrate your honor Sonya for this great cause! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)
 
Whew, talk about an action packed month! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy some of these fun events or I hope I will see you at an upcoming one soon! Also, please follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) for breaking news from around this beautiful town!
 
Mable Buckner and husband James BucknerLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful Mable Buckner, who has recently been promoted to President and CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce!!! They are SO lucky to have YOU, Mable! Congrats!

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May 22, 2012 · 10:02 am

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

…PLUS ART INSTITUTE’S DOUBLE BLOW-OUTS, STEPPENWOLF’S STAR-STUDDED NIGHT, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S PENTHOUSE PARTY, THE LOCAL TOURIST CELEBRATES 10, HUBBARD STREET DANCE'S SPOTLIGHT BALL, BRIAN ATWOOD, SMITHE FAMILY’S “RUN HOME CHICAGO” PARTY, WOMEN’S BOARD OF FIELD MUSEUM’S “SPARKLY” LUNCHEON AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Host-founder Dina ManzoIt was a night filled with celebration, hope and inspiration for the second Annual Ladybug Bash held this year at Grossinger City Autoplex on Thursday night. Host and organization founder Dina Manzo greeted each and every Blog 2 - Atia and Laura Lutarewychguest on the red carpet in a stunning champagne colored gown by Rivini. Dina, as I’m sure you know is filming the second season of HGTV’s “Dina’s Party,” which is about Dina’s many event planning adventures. She is also a former star of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” This one-woman powerhouse founded Project Ladybug in New Jersey in 2007 with the wish to bring financial and emotional support to children Blog 3 - Grace Melon (R) with her mom and dadundergoing rigorous cancer treatments and their families. Atia Lutarewych, the four-year-old pint-size namesake for Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, was there on this night, in full remission Blog 4 - Ms. Ill. Amber Podell, Mrs. Ill. Jennifer Cruz and Miss Ill. Nancy Toafter battling cancer for two years beginning at the tender age of 17 months. WGN Morning News’ “Around Town” reporter Ana Belaval was one of the hosts for the evening that also included Alpana Singh, host of WTTW’s “Check, Please!” (BTW, Alpana will become a restaurateur this summer Blog 5 - Margaret Rainone, Daniel Kinkade (R) and friendwhen she and her partners open The Boarding House restaurant at 720 N. Wells!) This year’s Ladybug Bash, themed “Stars & Cars,” also included Ms. Illinois 2012 Amber Podell, Miss Illinois Blog 6 - Glam girls beside 1927 Buick2012 Nancy To and Mrs. Illinois 2012 Jennifer Cruz. There were a lot of crowns and gowns in that room! The food stations were never ending with something delectable on all Blog 7 - Ana Belaval with Laura Lutarewychthree floors from restaurants that included Bistronomic, Orso’s Italian, Sunda, Uncle Julio’s, Wildfire, Market, D’s Sweet Berries, D’Casa, Burger Bar, Currents on the River, Hubbard Inn, Le Chocolat, Paradise Cantina and Punky’s Pizza & Pasta. Blog 8There were also dazzling vintage GM cars illustrating automobile luxury over the years that included a 1937, 1958 and 1973 Cadillac plus a 1927 Buick. Entertainer Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino performed “A Tribute to Dean Martin” that included funny impersonations of Jerry Lewis, too. All throughout the venue, Ford models showcased chic designs from AKIRA, one of Chicago’s Blog 9 - Even ladybug houseslippers were available for sale!premier fashion houses, while guests perused the extensive silent auction. Dan Colantone of Tone Productions DJ Services donated his musical talents as well as the Mike Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band and singer/songwriter Erica Iozzo. Celebrity Blog 10 - Grace Conlon brings the house down with her voiceimpersonator Debborah Hopkins was stunning as Marilyn Monroe! Grace Melon, a young cancer survivor, gave a riveting account of her long and arduous journey with a Broadway-worthy performance following. Grace’s Blog 11first round with leukemia began at the age of two. She was treated for two and a half years and was cancer free from age 5-12 when the cancer returned in July of 2008. She is now cancer-free, a freshman in high school and a professional actress, having signed on with Gray Talent Group at age 13. She has also initiated her own project to help kids with cancer. It was a wonderful night of fun for a great cause with proceeds benefitting the mission and ongoing programs offered by Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital. (To view more pics, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Ikram Goldman, Desiree Rogers and Maya PolskyThe Art Institute's Women's Board ALWAYS plans spectacular and creative events but on Friday, May 11th, they hosted TWO back-to-back parties at the Modern Wing! The night began with a gala for 600, co-chaired by Caryn Blog 2 - Margot Pritzker and WB President Francie ComerHarris and Stephanie Field Harris, celebrating the opening of the largest exhibition of artist Roy Lichtenstein's works to date. The colorfully clad, creative, black-tie crowd had a first look at the 160 works in the exhibition that included never-before-seen drawings, paintings and sculpture. Stunning decor by Bill Heffernan transformed the place into a pop-art explosion with many guests dressing the part in polka dots to echo the Ben-Day Blog 3 - Margo Brooks-Pugh, Marc Brooks, Anne Kaplandots in some of the artwork. Following dinner, guests moved upstairs to Terzo Piano where the Crash the Gala after-party was already in full swing with more than 400 guests taking advantage of the “after-party only” ticket pricing. Internationally Blog 4 - Michael Sacks, co-chair Caryn Harris and King Harrisrenowned DJ Jesse De La Pena (who, coincidentally, played at Ikram's big 10th anniversary party at the Hudson Club last year) had everyone on the dance floor. Here, decadent decor by Tom Kehoe delighted Blog 5 - Marlene Welsh Phillips, Patrick Ryan, Shirley Ryan and Jack Sandnerthe partygoers along with fun food from Bon Appetit that included hot dogs, popcorn, platters of bacon, pizza, ice cream and mo
re! Lucky guests were also treated to special performances by burlesque dancer Ray Ray Sunshine and cross-dressing entertainers Paul and Dan. (To see ALL photos by Bob Carl and Dan Rest, please click here! ("Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective" runs through September 3rd.)

Blog 1 - Stella with her Dante AwardChicago Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster was honored by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans with the coveted Dante Award at Galleria Marchetti on May 17th. There were so many in attendance that the valet Blog 2 - Nina Mariano, President Emeritus Dominic DiFrisco and wife Carolparkers had to close up shop for lack of space! Every year, the Human Relations Committee presents the Dante Award to a member of the local news media who fulfills Italian philosopher Dante Alighieri's call to be “no timid friend to truth.” And we sure know our Stella is NOT afraid of the truth! I love her column (who doesn't?) with her tagline “Yeah, I said it!” Past recipients include her old boss/mentor Irv Kupcinet, Walter Jacobson, John Madigan, Hugh Hill, Dick Kay, Joan Esposito, Emily Barr, Larry Wert, Joe Ahern, Merri Dee, Dominic Mancuso, Frank Mathie, Vince Gerasole, Blog 3 - Joan Esposito, Mark Giangreco and Janet DaviesJanet Davies, George Caputo, Mark Giangreco, Allison Rosati and Ron Blog 4 - Kathy Brock, Merri Dee and Susanna NegovanMagers. JCCIA's illustrious members include Dominic DiFrisco (President Emeritus), Antonio Romanucci (President) and Jo Ann Serpico (Executive Director). Stella's column has been appearing in the Sun-Times since 2003 every Tuesday and Thursday and we just love her! Congrats on this much-deserved honor Stella! (To view ALL great pics by Steve Starr, please click here!)

Blog 1 - LP Zoo Prez Kevin Bell, co-chairs Susu Meder and Cindy Polayes, Kimbra & Mark Walter, WB Prez Abby Zanarini, John AlexanderThe Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo recently held a Preview Party in the Hilton Chicago’s penthouse to celebrate its upcoming Blog 2 - LP Zoo Prez Kevin Bell and Mark WalterZoo Ball, which is planned for July 13th. It was hosted by Zoo Ball co-chairs Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Ross Polayes. Mark Walter, CEO of Guggenheim Partners (the presenting Blog 3 - Jim and Gayle Anthony with Paul Iaconosponsor of Zoo Ball 2012) and new controlling owner of the LA Dodgers, was in attendance with his wife, Kimbra. Guests sipped on cocktails and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while taking in the spectacular view and toasting to this Blog 4 - Kimbra and Mark Walteryear’s Zoo Ball, themed “The Great Gatsby.” Guests seen on the scene included John Alexander, Kevin Bell, John Fornengo, Gale Gottlieb, Michaela Parrillo, Gayle Anthony, Windy Krimins and Abby Zanarini. This is always a fabulous party with great people watching to benefit Lincoln Park Zoo, the oldest zoo in the country and one of the last free public institutions in America. (For more details, please visit www.lpzoo.org and to view more pics, please click here!)

Blog 1To celebrate a decade online, The Local Tourist is inviting visitors and residents to tour Chicago like a Local Tourist with Passport To Chicago. On June 3, you can enjoy exclusive events and deals at destinations all over Chicago, getting your pages Blog 2stamped at each place you visit. Each Passport comes complete with a CTA day pass and one free ride from Uber, the new car service that’s taking Chicago by storm. Those who purchase their Passports in advance will also get an “I’m A Local Tourist” sling bag for free! Passport To Chicago provides exclusive access to the Official After Party at local hot spot Public House but the Blog 3 - Theresa Carter, foundercelebration doesn’t end there: There are so many places to go and things to do that there's no way to do them all in one day – that's why the Passport To Chicago is good for a whole year! From June 4, 2012 to May 31, 2013, these businesses are offering even more special discounts. All of this exploring is for a good cause since The Local Tourist is donating a portion of every Passport to participating local charities! This all-inclusive package is just $35. For more information on TLTen and Passport To Chicago, including beneficiary charities and businesses, visit www.passporttochicago.com.

Blog 1 - Acclaimed novelist Erik LarsonThe 21st annual Facing History and Ourselves benefit dinner welcomed more than 750 civic and corporate leaders to the Hyatt Regency on May 1st. The event raised over $1.95 million in support of Facing History’s wide-reaching educational Blog 2 - Albert R. Grace, Jr., Board Chair Jill Garling, Director Bonnie Oberman, novelist Erik Larson, Greg Caseprograms and marked the Chicago kick-off of the organization’s nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibition, Choosing to Participate, which will be mounted at the Harold Washington Public Library, located at 400 S. State, from August 27th to November 11th. Co-chairs Blog 3 - Penny Pritzker and Mark Hoplamazianfor the initiative are AON President/CEO Greg Case and Loop Capital Markets CEO Jim Reynolds. Guests enjoyed an evening that began with a reception and cocktails, followed by dinner and a presentation Blog 4 - Greg Case, Jill Garling, Bonnie Oberman, Albert R. Grace, Jr., Judy Wise, Marc Skvirskyby acclaimed novelist Erik Larson, author of “The Devil in the White City” and “In the Garden of Beasts.” The speaking program also included remarks from Facing History Director Bonnie Oberman and Loop Capital Markets Pres/co-founder, Albert R. Grace, Jr. Facing History and Ourselves, which was originally founded in Boston by Margot Stern Strom, established a Chicago office 21 years ago. Co-founded by Blog 5 - FH & O Chicago Director Bonnie ObermanJudy Wise and Karen Harrison, Blog 6 - Ron and Patty Wisethe Chicago office has trained more than 3,000 local educators through its programs since 1990. These teachers annually reach more than 300,000 middle and high school students in over 175 public, religious and independent Chicago schools. (For more info, visit www.facinghistory.org and for additional pics, click here.)
 
Blog 1 - Event chairs Mike and Frances HenkelHubbard Street Dance Chicago hosted its annual Spotlight Ball at the Hilton Chicago with more than 450 of Chicago’s movers and shakers, including the Mayor who served as Honorary Chair. Blog 2 - Dancers Meredith Dincolo and Kellie Epperheimer with the MayorCo-chaired by Craig Duchossois (CEO of the Duchossois Group) and Don Thompson (President/COO of McDonald’s Corp.), this event raised more than $700,000 to support the dance company’s education, community and artistic programming. Emceed by Blog 3 - Board member Joni Jacobsen and husband Craig Coxlongtime supporter, ABC 7’s Ron Magers, the evening kicked off with cocktails and a silent auction that featured a seven-night trip to Brazil. Guests were also treated to a unique performance choreographed Blog 4 - Hubbard St. Board Prez Meg Callahan and husband Timby some of Hubbard Street’s most prominent talents: resident choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo and Taryn Kaschock Russell, director of Hubbard Street 2, followed by a three-course dinner prepared by Hilton Executive Chef Mario Garcia. Don Blog 5 - Advisory Board Chair Sandra Guthman, her husband Jack and Charlene SchrederThompson presented the Spotlight Award to Jeanne and John Rowe, who delivered a powerful speech about the importance of supporting the arts. Target Group VP Mary Farrell-Tarbox accepted a Spotlight Award for her company’s commitment to improving access to the arts. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, under artistic director Glenn Edgerton, celebrates 34 years as one of the most original forces in contemporary dance. (Photos by Bob Carl.)
 
Blog 1 - Tim Smithe, Kyla McCarthy, Police Supt. Garry McCarthy, Tim Jr. and Mary Astor SmitheWalter Smithe, son Tim Smithe and family recently hosted a Kick-Off party at their Lincoln Park showroom to launch the 30-day countdown for “Run Home Chicago,” a race to end homelessness, that will take Blog 2 - Walter E. Smitheplace in Soldier Field on June 10th beginning at 7 a.m. Tim’s fabulous wife, Mary Astor Smithe, was on hand to offer her delicious Chicago Butter Cookies (with a chocolate fountain, no less!) to guests who included Chicago Bears Earl Bennett and Israel Idonije, Eda Davidman, Police Supt. Garry Blog 3 - Mr. and Mrs. Earl BennettMcCarthy and his daughter Kyla, Quentin Primo III, Ravi Baichwal and Susanna Negovan, among many others. Everyone enjoyed lively music, food and drinks donated from local Chicago businesses including Tavern on Rush, Swirlz Cupcakes, Tito’s Vodka, Four Roses Bourbon and Blog 4 - Quenten Primo and friendPRP Wine. “Run Home Chicago” is hosted by the Primo Center for Women and Children, a shelter on Chicago’s West Side that provides transitional housing, counseling and support services to homeless women and their Blog 5 - Cynthia and Bo Ellischildren. The event will honor the Mayor and his wife, Amy Rule, as chairs of the race. Participating in the race will help to raise funds for facilities such as PCWC that provide essential social services to Chicagoans hardest hit by homelessness. (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click here and for more info, please visit www.runhomechicago.com.)
 
Blog 1 - Ensemble member-co-founder Gary Sinise plays bass w Lt. Dan BandSteppenwolf Theatre Company hosted more than 500 guests for its annual star-studded gala on May 5th. The event kicked off with a showcase of scenes inspired by the world-premiere production of “The March,” based on the Blog 2 - Gala co-chair-TPN Prez Rich Feitler and Board Chair Nora Daleynovel by E.L. Doctorow, adapted for the stage and directed by ensemble member Frank Galati, and featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Ian Barford, Martha Lavey, Mariann Mayberry, James Vincent Meredith and Alan Wilder. Following the Blog 3 - Stacy Lindau, Susan Kalt, Liz Lefkofsky, Natalie Ginsberg, Anna Shapiro, Deb Hirschfield, Julie Ellisperformance, the party moved two blocks south to Blackhawk on Halsted, a 15,000-square-foot space featuring theatrically-inspired décor by Event Creative and a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline. Blog 4 - Maria Smithburg, Trustee Colette Cachey Smithburg and Jacky FerroThere, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering and the awesome, annual live auction led by auctioneer Michael Davis of Hart Davis Wine Co. It featured once-in-a-lifetime Blog 5 - Jim Epstein, Steppenwolf Artistic Director Martha Lavey and Kelly Epsteinadventures with Steppenwolf ensemble members and artists and included an on-set visit to the hit Starz original drama “Boss,” filmed here in Chicago starring Kelsey Grammer, plus autographed Blog 6 - Ensemble member Amy Morton, Board Chair Doug Brown and Chaz Ebertscripts as a memento of the day; exclusive dinner with comedian Jeff Garlin (star and executive producer of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) with dinner prepared by five-time James Beard Award nominee Chef Michael Kornick; four tickets to the NY opening of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (the 50th anniversary of Blog 7 - Co-chairs Rich and Margery Feitler, Scott and Rita George, John and Carol Walterthe original Broadway production premiere) plus hotel and airfare; and an exclusive evening on the Steppenwolf stage with co-founder Gary Sinise and ensemble member Moira Harris with a gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Trotter! The Blog 8 - Gary Sinise, Steppenwolf Trustee Sarah Beardsley, Ted Tetzlaffevening wrapped up with dancing and live music by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gala 2012 co-chairs included Richard and Margery Feitler, Rita and Scott George and Carol and John Walter while Liz and Eric Lefkofsky were the Live Auction Sponsors. This year's Gala raised more than $1 million! (To view ALL event pics by Joan Hackett and Kyle Flubacker, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Top Allison Schmitt, Betsy Ahearne, Gigi Johnson, Ann Kasten Front Katherine Veach, co-chair Liz Sharp

The Women’s Board of The Field Museum is raising funds for its annual Women in Science Fellowship with a program and luncheon at the Museum on Wednesday, May 30th. To kick-off this event, members gathered in Blog 2 - Diana Hall (VP Harry Winston), Tonja Hall, Joan Colmarearly April at Harry Winston in Chicago with its VP Diana Hall to view A.V. Shinde’s iconic designs. This year’s event, co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, will showcase the remarkable designs of Shinde, renowned jewelry Blog 3 - Stephanie Ortel, Gigi Johnson, Ann Kastendesigner for Harry Winston from the 1960’s through the end of the century. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. in the James Simpson Theatre with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers include Reema Keswani (expert on Blog 4 - Dayna Kirk, co-chair Liz Sharp and Betsy AhearneIndian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde) and Anthony Ledru (Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston). An Indian-themed luncheon will follow in Stanley Field Hall. This year’s Women in Science Fellowship winner is Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord. (Photos by Steve Starr.) Individual tickets are $125, tables of 10 are $1,250. (For more info, please call 312.665.7135 or email womensboard@fieldmuseum.org.)

Blog 1 - Maestro Chen Apostolic @MLKThe Chicago Sinfonietta will kick off its 25th anniversary with an UnMasked Ball on Saturday, June 2nd, celebrating the Colors of Sounds at the Fairmont Chicago, located 200 N. Columbus Dr. The event will be co-chaired by civic leader Sandra Rand and Maria Green, V.P. General Counsel and Secretary of Ill. Tool Works. The evening will begin Blog 2 - Jim Hirsch, Maria Green, Maestro Chenwith cocktails and an array of one-of-a-kind masks from productions of other Chicago arts organizations including Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, National Museum of Mexican Art, Red Moon Theater, Chicago Dramatists, Muntu Dance and more. The Ball will also feature a full performance of the Chicago Sinfonietta under the baton of Maestro Mei-Ann Chen; Eric Goldberg and Shuya Gong will join the orchestra as featured soloists. (Tickets begin at $400 and are available by calling 312.236.3681, ext. 1559 or by clicking here.)

Blog 1Mark your calendars now for one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year – Glamorama! Coming on Friday, August 10th to the Chicago Theatre at 175 N. State St., this year’s theme Blog 2 - Glam 2011 (Pic by Steve Starr)is “British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now!” From the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, Macy’s Glamorama 2012 pays homage to some of the world’s most well-known and respected British pop Blog 3 - Highlight of 2011 Macy’s Glam Showicons from the past 50 years. Macy’s Glamorama is an hour-long, high end fashion show and musical production that unveils Macy’s latest fashions but also showcases heart-stopping dance, lush visuals, staging as well as exciting musical performances – I Blog 4 - Glam Fashion 2011 (Pic by Mila Samokhina)will let you know WHO shortly! The event will once again benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Be the first to get your tickets with the American Express Exclusive Pre-Sale from May 30th through June 7th. Ticket prices are $50 and $75 for show only; $175 and $285 for show and after-party; $1,000 for VIP show and after-party. BUT Blog 5 - Glam Finale 2011FIRST, join me and our dynamic Host Committee for another fabulous GLAM LAUNCH PARTY on Friday, June 8th at Greenhouse Loft, located at 2545 W. Diversey Ave. We will have a surprise musical guest, Rosemary Fanti illustrations, fun food, fashion presentations by Elda de la Rosa, Borris Powell, Anna Fong, M2F and Azeeza, photo booth, fabulous Glam guests and so much more!! Please purchase tickets here but to see what you missed at LAST year's Launch Party, please click here.

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

Wisteria picThis has been the busiest month I’ve ever seen on my calendar! From May 4th to May 12th alone, there were more than 15 gala events!! As you can see, I tried to bring the best pics and info from MOST of them to you this week! I hope you enjoyed it and I hope your gardens are flourishing! Our wisteria has never looked lovelier! Happy Spring!
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
Brian Atwood storeP.S. Under the “It’s About Time!” category, proud mom Dusty (Yolanda) Stemer reports that her super handsome, hunky shoe designer son, Brian Atwood, will have his first stand-alone store coming to New York’s Madison Avenue in the fall. I can only imagine the lines! Congrats Brian – we all love you and hope Chicago is NEXT!!! 🙂

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September 12, 2011 · 7:55 pm

CHIC CHAPEAUX AT PARKWAYS LUNCHEON BENEFITS KIDS’ CAMP

Blog 1 - Genine Shafer This much I know for sure: Hats and high winds just don’t mix! But this fact didn’t keep 500+ ladies from donning their best chapeaux for Parkways' Ninth Annual Garden Party in the beautiful Tiffany & Co. Foundation Blog 2 - Marcia Buchanan, John Hart, Carol Prins Celebration Garden on Thursday, Sept. 8th. This year’s event, co-chaired by Carol Prins and April Shink, raised more than $275,000 which will be used to support the Send a Kid to Camp Fund along with nature and environmental science programming designed to get kids outdoors, active and connected to nature. Proceeds from the Garden Party will enable 3,500 kids to attend camp and will engage 10,000 more Blog 3 children and their families Blog 4 - Karen Peter throughout the city to experience the wonder of nature in more than 550 parks. This year, one of the founding members of Parkways, Donna LaPietra along with Bill Kurtis, emceed a paddle raise that brought in an extra $21,000 giving guests the opportunity to further support the Camp Fund. Blue Cross Blue/Shield of Blog 5 - Sarena Weil, Sheree Valukas and Susan Grimm Illinois was the recipient of the Jens Jensen Award and Jo Ann Nathan was honored with the Council Ring Outstanding Volunteer Award. I know Jo Ann and this award Blog 6 - Brian White, Lynda Silverman, Sherrill Bodine and friend couldn’t have been given to a more worthy volunteer. She has been involved with Parkways since its inception and served as director of the Jens Jensen Legacy Project. She also co-Blog 7 authored “Inspired by Nature: The Garfield Park Conservatory and Chicago’s West Side” as well as serving on many other related committees and boards. Congrats Jo Ann! Since 1994, Parkways Foundation has raised more Blog 8 than $30 million for Chicago’s parks to enrich communities through historic preservation, environmental initiatives, capital projects and youth/family programs. We have one of the most extensive systems in the country with more than 550 parks, 250 field houses, 33 beaches, nine Blog 9 - Hello! Princess Beatrice!!! museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 wildlife gardens and more than 9,000 annual programs, including summer camp for 30,000 kids each year. WHEW! That’s a lot of fundraising efforts since tax dollars alone can’t do it all. And despite the high winds on this day, the weather was perfect…sunny and bright with mild temps. Just the kind of Blog 11 - Monika Dixon setting to show off the last of your summer outfits with some great (and not-so-great) hats! The ladies mixed and mingled amidst the last flowers of the season while the gorgeous skyline added the perfect backdrop to the many photographers’ pics. After cocktails, the ladies moved inside the Blog 10 massive tent for the luncheon where whimsical hat designs were the centerpieces at every table. Created by the kids from the Teen Leadership Club at Jesse Owens Park, these charming little hats brought the message home to all attendees just why they were there. If you would like to learn more about this worthwhile organization or donate, please visit www.parkways.org. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins)

Blog 1 - Miley Cyrus and Sir Philip Green TOPSHOP/TOPMAN had one of the biggest store openings I’ve seen in a long, long time. It started earlier this year with a very private dinner at Henri as a sort of meet-and-greet and Blog 2 - Lindsay Avner and WCL’s Hank Mendheim (Frankly Hank) continued this week in a very big way. There was a private shopping day, a runway show featuring their Brit-inspired looks for Fall/Winter 2011 (hosted by Brittney Payton) and a ribbon cutting ceremony with founder Sir Philip Green, his beautiful daughter Chloe AND surprise guest Blog 3 - TOPSHOP TOPMAN fashion show Miley Cyrus! There was also a by-invite-only dinner at Paris Club on Wednesday, Sept. 7th. One hundred eighty guests showed up for an elegant sit-down dinner. The entire restaurant had been reserved for this party that was planned entirely by Blog 4 - Jenny Berg, Korey Huyler, Kelly Ryan O’Brien, Kasia Koniar, model Jennifer and friend TOPSHOP. They left nothing to chance even planning the exquisite white floral arrangements spread throughout the room. It was elegance all the way including the French-inspired menu choices that Blog 5 - Gorgeous décor at Paris Club included chicken paillard, halibut with mushroom veloute, French green beans, Provencal vegetable plate and a truffled chicken terrine among other delicious offerings. The tables were peppered with Blog 6 - With Linda O’Keefe and TOPSHOP CEO Ian Grabiner TOPSHOP honchos giving all of the guests a chance to talk shop with the pros. Their future plans include expanding stores into New York, California and Las Vegas. Pretty soon, every TOP city in the world will Blog 7 - John Carroll and Stacey Jones have a TOPSHOP! I also hear their personal shopping department is incredible! I love the choices for reasonably priced wardrobe options in our city now. The days are over for most people as far as spending thousands of dollars on clothing. At Blog 8 - Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth least I know mine are! Congrats to TOPSHOP for bringing their fun-loving clothing line to town. And, as I told CEO Ian Grabiner, not only do I enjoy the store but I am doubly glad to know it’s run by a lot of very, very nice people! (To view ALL event photos, please click HERE!)

Blog 1 0 Dr. Jake Deutsch and Brian Atwood Chicago’s stylish set was dancing with joy up and down Michigan Avenue for the last two weeks during “In Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival” which included our city’s first version of “Fashion Night Out” for its finale on Blog 2 - Brad Goreski and Amanda Puck Thursday, Sept. 8th. FNO began in New York in 2009 as a global initiative to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence and boost the industry’s economy. It was a runaway Blog 3 - Dr. Stacie McClane, Dr. Alex Stemer and Dusty with friends success with more than 100 cites across the U.S. participating this year. During the course of Chicago’s evening finale, stores planned a night of fun-filled activities that brought out the stars. The 900 Shops hosted “Fame, Blog 4 - Shari Michaels, Jeanine and friend Fashion and Flavor” featuring Bravo’s Brad Goreski in its Tzar VIP Lounge as well as a flash fashion show, beauty bazaars, photo booth, in-store celebrations and Blog 5 - Jessica Zweig, Marcus Riley and friend giveaways. The Shops at North Bridge included styling tips from Chicago magazine’s fashion director Stacey Jones and style editor Heiji Choy Black while Water Tower Place hosted a fashion party and a Blog 6 - Corri McFadden and Ryan Beshel cookbook signing by “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Teresa Guidice. Flashing strobe lights lit up Neiman Marcus’ entryway while inside its plans included a Blog 7 - Interviewing Brad Goreski for Social Circles fall trends runway show, Chicago Bulls’ Kyle Korver, tastings from local restaurants, a Factor Model search, a DJ and live fashion illustrations. Saks Fifth Avenue spotlighted handsome and uber talented shoe designer Blog 8 - Lynn McMahan and Laurie Davis Brian Atwood for the official unveiling of its new shoe salon, 10022-SHOE. He graciously signed his signature stilettos and posed for pics while the 500+ crowd of admirers sipped champagne and Blog 9 - Kathy O’Malley Piccone and her sister Victoria Langston swayed to the sounds of DJ Madrid. He also shared a little scoop with me: He is newly engaged to long-time love and handsome hunk himself, Dr. Jake Deutsch! Jake proposed to Brian on his birthday in a chapel in Blog 10 the Greek Islands after a 2 ½ year courtship. My only question to Jake was, “What took so long?!” They are the perfect couple and are blissfully happy! Chair of In-Fashion and Director of PR for ULTA Beauty, Carrie Lannon, along with her 50-strong committee, created an event to Blog 11 - Connie Saville and darling daughter Caitlin Collins remember and are already planning next year’s celebrations. Congrats to Chi-Town on our first Fashion Night Out, Chair Extraordinaire Carrie Lannon, all of the participating stores, Amanda Puck, Julie Selakovich, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel and Brian and Jake!!! Can’t wait to see what magical fashion fun next year brings!!! (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click HERE!)

Blog 1 - With Laura Baginski and Val Warner Thanks to “Windy City Live” for having me on again recently! I appeared in a segment with Time Out Blog 2 - Ryan Chiaverini with Kerry Wood Chicago’s features editor, Laura Baginski, as she discussed their latest issue about Playboy (on newsstands now). I brought my Playboy Bunny ears and made Val and Laura wear them while I gave a little show-and-tell Blog 3 - With Gerard Butler and Val about my long history with Playboy. My friends teased me about being such a saver concerning the memorabilia I had brought but I SAVE everything! Good news and bad news! But I am very happy to have my Bunny costume. Complete sets have sold on eBay for over $10,000! Gerard Butler and Kerry Wood were guests on the show this day, too; check it out below. (I hope you like it!)

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CommonThreadsCook-OffFinal Common Threads ‘Associate Board is hosting its first annual Cook-Off on Thursday, September 15th at Fulton’s on the River, located at 315 N. LaSalle, from 6:30-9 PM. With this new theme, 27 chefs will create and serve their favorite dish either in a glass, on a bun, in a shell or on a stick. Guests will then vote for their favorite in each category and may the BEST chef win! VIP tickets are $150, general admission is $75. For more info, please call Erica Stimac at 312.329.2501, ext. 208, or email Erica@commonthreads.org.

Blog 1 - Michelle L’ Amour And now for something completely different! For the second year, Studio L’Amour, presents “Superstars of Burlesque” at the Park West at 322 W. Armitage on Friday, September 16th. This show is described as “the most ambitious and spectacular Blog 2 - Murray Hill burlesque show ever to hit Chicago.” Every performer in this one-night-only event holds a title from the Burlesque Hall of Fame (the industry’s highest honor). Performers scheduled include Michelle L’Amour (2005), Indigo Blue (the Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2011), Dirty Martini (2004) and Roxi D’Lite (2010) among others. World’s Best Group 2011, The Stage Door Johnnies, Blog 3 - Trixie Little and Evil Hate Monkey is also scheduled to perform along with Trixie Little and Evil Hate Monkey. These names alone make me want to go! I can’t wait to see what Studio L’Amour has in store (a little rhyme, get it?). It also doesn’t hurt that one of my favorite emcees, Murray Hill, will be doing the hosting duties! There will be two shows on Friday, at 8 PM and 10 PM. Tickets are only $25 and can be purchased at the door, online or at Taboo, Tabou, located at 845 W. Belmont. See you there!

Blog 1 - Stacie McClane, her cute daughter and Sherry Holson And, finally a huge congrats to Dr. Stacie McClane and JAM Productions' Jerry Mickelson on their recent engagement! I attended a party in their honor at the Peninsula recently and the love in the room was palpable. Stacie’s darling Blog 2 - --Pat Maxwell, Jerry Mickelson and Mary Pat Burns (who will be marrying them!) daughter and mom were in attendance along with friends. The event was hosted by Yvette Cusack, Kate Covington, Dusty Stemer, Jean Antoniou and Sherry Lea Holson. Congrats, Stacie and Jerry!

 

That’s the lowdown on this week’s MANY highlights! I hope to “see” you next week, same time, same place. Thanks also to all who voted for my blog in the CBS contest. I will let you know the results, good or bad as soon as I know! 🙂

Author Talks Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I also hope you can join me on Thursday, Sept. 15th, for AUTHOR TALKS presented by the Chicago Tribune. Authors Jacquelyn Mitchard (“Second Nature, A Love Story”) and Elizabeth Berg (“Once Upon a Time, There Was You”) will be discussing their upcoming books at a reception hosted by Literary Editor Elizabeth Taylor. The event will begin at 6:30 PM at the Tribune Tower, located at 435 N. Michigan, and tickets are only $20.

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August 28, 2011 · 6:59 pm

SHINING & DINING FOR STEP UP AND ON THE ROOF FOR RMHC!

Blog 1 - Honorary Chair Valerie Warner with Step Up teen participants Two great events for wonderful causes BOTH on the same night! What is Candid Candace to do? Go to both, of course! The first “Shine & Dine” was held at Galleria Marchetti recently Blog 2 - Greg Moore, Annette Winkleman, founder Gina Marotta, Ramona and Peter Marsh to benefit Step Up Women’s Network. This event, the first of its kind, attracted more than 400 guests. Honorary Chair, ABC 7’s Valerie Warner, sparkled and inspired from Blog 3 - Marcus Riley, Jason Erkes, DC Crenshaw and Cameron Croft the stage to the crowd consisting of local professionals and notables. The evening was a mix of philanthropy plus seasonal fare from Chicago’s hottest restaurants all to benefit Blog 4 - Cassandra Gaddo, Erica Strama and friends the charitable programs of Step Up Women’s Network. Managing Director Gina Marotta said, “Step Up has been a fixture in Chicago for five years and this special event is the perfect Blog 5 - Honorary Chair Valerie Warner, Laura Schwartz and Gina Marotta way to celebrate our work with local women and girls, as well as attract new enthusiasts to our cause.” Wave Executive Chef Kristine Subido and ZED451 Executive Chef Patrick Quakenbush were on hand to offer Blog 5 - JC Steinbrunner, his sweetie Amalie Drury and Liz Grossman guests their exclusive tastings as well as favorites from The Purple Pig. The event’s host committee included D.C. Crenshaw, Cameron Croft, Amalie Drury, Cassandra Gaddo, Todd Helmink, Jonny Imerman, Stacy Levy, Kim Lichtenstein, Peter Marsh, Robert McGhee, Susanna Negovan, Daphne Ortiz, Todd S. Pugh, Marcus Riley, Laura Blog 6 - Cute SUWN staffers Schwartz, Erica Strama, Genevieve Theirs, Julee White and moi. This Blog 8 - A packed house at Galleria Marchetti wonderful organization supports and mentors teen girls in Chicago’s most underserved communities to become confident, college-bound and career-ready! For more info on how YOU can become involved, please visit www.suwn.org. (All photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Blog 1 - RMHC’s COB Paul Huebener, Jamie Haberkorn, Ronald, co-chairs Lesley Goodman, Carol Beitler and MaryAnne Smith This same evening, one of my favorite new spots in town, The Rooftop at Studio Paris, was the scene of a party hosted by The Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House Blog 2 - Kimberly Gleeson, Richard Doermer, John and Carol McKinnon and friends Near Lurie Children’s. This benefit was co-chaired by three of the most enthusiastic ladies I know – Carol Beitler, Lesley Goodman and MaryAnne Smith (Coach Lovie’s Blog 3 - Marge Hamm, Anna Treiber, Kathleen Henson, Caroline Kinney and Julie Hamm vivacious wife). Two hundred plus supporters participated in this benefit that raised more than $50,000 to support the Rooftop Retreat of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House. Debuting Blog 4 - Jami Weiman, Bari Izenstark and Steve Beitler in 2012 and designed to give families a chance to relax and replenish after a day at the hospital, this impressive space will be surrounded by Blog 5 - Rochelle Trotter and Frances Renk nine-foot glass walls with both a family activity area and a meditation garden. The brick sculpture dividing the two areas will feature the city’s first skyline bricolage mosaic, a customized Blog 6 - Sarca’s Alexis Cozzini (center) with cute friends mural constructed from pieces of tile, mirrors, paintings and photographs which the Auxiliary is sponsoring. On this night, guests were introduced to some of the wall’s artists as well as having an opportunity to create a tile to be embedded in the structure.Another fun event is planned for September 27th. Starting at 4 PM, “Topping Off” festivities will begin on the garage rooftop across the street from the new House at 211 E. Grand. Following the official ceremony at 5 PM, Saks on Michigan Avenue (courtesy of Heather Farley) has invited everyone for an exclusive night of fashion and cocktails from 6 to 8 PM. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins. To view ALL images, please click here.)

Blog 1 - Russell Crowe Film star and Oscar winner Russell Crowe tweeted to his 250,000 followers: "Rode from Algonquin to Lake Geneva (WI). Beautiful place, my first ever visit to Wisconsin. If you are in the area, check out Baker House." Blog 2 - Baker House Well, it just so happens my darling friend, Bethany, OWNS Baker House and this is her report: "Last night (8/25), Russell Crowe arrived (unannounced) at our new restaurant, The Baker House, in Lake Geneva, WI. He came in with two male friends and asked to be seated in our lakefront garden. They were hungry and seemed a bit tired…evidently, turns out he and his two male companions had biked from Algonquin, Blog 3 - Versailles Turret Luxury Suite Illinois, to Lake Geneva, 40 miles, and then spent the day trekking around our scenic 28-mile lake! Russell said it was his FIRST VISIT EVER TO WISCONSIN and Blog 4 thought it was beautiful, and when he left he tweeted to his fans that if ever in the area, they should check out the Baker House! Our staff all wear costumes set in the 1890's through 1920's and Russell was amused asking our waitress if she liked dressing up when she came to work! Blog 5 - Provence Premier Suite When he and his friends left, they said Blog 6 - Bordeaux Premier Room fireplace they had an early day in Chicago or would have spent the night in our luxury hotel rooms that just opened. That would have been awesome!" Truth be told, this beautiful, vintage hotel with a lakefront setting has been on MY hit list for quite some time. My neighbors love it and we have been invited a few times but my schedule has never allowed us to go. Nestled in scenic beauty on Blog 7 - Champagne Luxury Suite Geneva Lake, this hotel was built in 1885 as a summer home for a wealthy family. Situated at 327 Wrigley Dr. in downtown Lake Geneva, this vintage, painted lady boasts 30 rooms, 13 fireplaces, nightly entertainment, a lakefront garden and is a Nationally Registered Historic property. Luxury suites begin at $340 and there are many packages available. I am sure Russell will be returning…and I hope I can meet him for cocktails in the lakefront garden! (With my husband, of course!) (Baker House, 327 Wrigley Dr., downtown Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, 262.248.4700)

Godogood-1 I love feel-good stories, feel good movies and, of course, feel good campaigns! And this one is pretty special. Chicago Loop Alliance, along with the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, in support of their public art initiative, created the “GO DO GOOD” campaign. (You would only miss the brightly-colored yellow signs around town if you were living in a cave, which hopefully you aren’t!) This campaign is a summer long, citywide movement to prepare Chicago’s kids to succeed in school and to also encourage good deeds around town. The theme Events.Par.26414.Image.0.0.1 is based on the Chicago Loop Alliance’s commissioned “Go Do Good” art installation which is a six foot story mural by Midwest based, internationally-acclaimed contemporary artist, Kay Rosen. This 30-second PSA was produced by Julee White’s Testarossa Entertainment in association wih the Illinois Center for Broadcasting (that shot and edited the spot). Check it out (campaign ends on Sept. 10th) and GO DO GOOD!!! :)

And now, here are some wonderful upcoming events that Candid Candace Recommends!

Blog 1 - Shawntae Calhoun Photo by Dennis Lee The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival is the first of its kind in Chicago! “In-Fashion,” presented by MasterCard, will feature a two-week (August 26th through Sept. 8th) celebration of style Blog 2 - Carson Kressley featuring exclusive shopping offers, hotel packages, sweepstakes, culinary events and celebrities galore! Stylist Carson Kressley kicked off the event early on Aug. 26th in Pioneer Court on Blog 3 - Brian Atwood Michigan Avenue. There are too many events to mention here but expect to see Cubs catcher Geovany Soto, "Real Housewives'" Kyle Richards, Bill Kurtis, hunky shoe designer Brian Atwood, Chef Gale Gand and "Project Runway’s" Mondo Guerra at events around town. I will be dividing my time on Sept. 8th between Saks Fifth Avenue’s shoe salon re-opening (10022-SHOE) with Brian Atwood (6 to 9 PM) and 900 Shops VIP party featuring Bravo’s Brad Goreski (6 to 9 PM). Congrats to Carrie Lannon, In-Fashion Chairperson and National Director of PR for ULTA Beauty! For more info, please visit www.shop900.com/fno.

RED_560x195 On Tuesday, Sept. 27th, the Goodman Theatre will present its opening benefit featuring the Tony award-winning play by John Logan, “Red,” which is described as a journey into the mind of abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, for whom paintings are “pulsating” life forces intended “to stop the heart.” The evening will begin with cocktails and dinner at the Modern Wing of the Art Institute, located at 159 E. Monroe, followed at 8 PM with the performance of “Red.” Gala and performance tickets begin at $500. Performance only tickets start at $25.

Blog 1 As you know, there was extensive damage to our fabulous Garfield Park Conservatory during the hail storm on June 30th. Thus, the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance is spearheading a fundraising campaign to restore the damaged panes. Entitled, “Wine & Wildflowers,” this fundraiser will be held Thursday, Sept.1st, at the Lincoln Park Zoo Blog 2 - Garfield Park Conservatory Fern Room hail damage from 5:30 to 8 PM and will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a meet-and-greet with author Julia Bachrach. Tickets are $95 and can be purchased by visiting lpzoo.org/wine.

Blog 1 On Friday, September 23rd, an event very close to my heart, “Couture & Cocktails,” will be celebrating its sixth year as one of the biggest fundraisers for The Joffrey Ballet. Co-created by Helen Melchior and myself, this year’s event is being chaired by matching dynamos Kristina McGrath and Rebecca Besser. Held for the first time at this hot, Blog 2 - Joffrey dancers on the catwalk at C & C 2009 new, BIG (115,000 feet.) venue, the Hudson at 2222 S. Michigan (where Ikram hosted her anniversary party!), this party/fashion show will feature the designs of David Meister (presented by our great friends at Neiman Marcus). Beginning with a VIP Party at 6 PM, there will also be a live and silent auction as well as the event’s signature “fun food.” Live auction items feature a Blog 3 - C & C at the Palmer House 2009 Championship Round Masters Golf Package for four, a dream trip to British Virgin Island’s Bitter End Yacht Club, a private yacht for eight in Florida and a Ready-Made Champagne and Wine Collection. Tickets start at $275 with packages available. For more info and tickets, please visit Joffrey.org/CoutureandCocktails.

Lynn Sage Cancer Luncheon 2011 The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host its 26th Annual Fall Benefit luncheon on Monday, Sept. 19th at the Ritz-Carlton. (Chuck’s birthday!!!!) Featuring Goldie Hawn, the event will begin at 11 AM followed by a luncheon at noon. Event chairs are Ashley Netzky and Lara Shipp Shiffman with Maggie Daley serving as the Honorary Chair. For tickets or more info, please visit www.lynnsage.org, email lynnsage@nmh.org or call 312.926.7133. And that’s this week’s lowdown on Chicago’s fabulous highlights! 🙂

Most Valuable Blogger Nominee Logo Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And I hope you’re not sick of my constant pleas for you to vote for me in CBS’ “Most Valuable Blogger” contest! I am proud to be a finalist and hope to be a win-alist! Just click and vote HERE! Remember, you can vote once a day until Sept. 9th, yadda, yadda, yadda… 🙂

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