Tag Archives: Carol Prins

October 1, 2012 · 1:55 pm

THE STELLABRATION CONTINUES AT GENE & GEORGETTI’S!

…PLUS EXPO CHICAGO HIGHLIGHTS, DEBI LILLY "LET'S THEM EAT CAKE", THE SKY IS FALLING AT HERITAGE AUCTIONS, SARAH’S RED MOON PARTY, FCACC’S FURRY FUN, LUNA NEGRA’S NOCHE DE LUNA GALA, MITCH CANOFF’S BIG NIGHT, CAMP COSMETICS, MICH MAG AND VS CHICAGO MAG PHOTO SHOOTS, NEWCITY STYLE, WRIST WISHES FOR CHARITY AND SO MUCH MORE!

Gene & Georgetti’s, one of my favorite restaurants in town, hosted a party for one of my favorite people in town, Stella Foster. Held upstairs in the Fireplace Room (which is so cozy, it makes you cry), more than 30 close friends came together to celebrate this Chicago icon. The cocktails flowed along with the most delicious food that included sausage and peppers, chicken, lamb chops, beef tenderloin, shrimp cocktail, cake, their world famous spumoni and so much more. Guests took turns sharing their thoughts. Warner Saunders said, “I’m going to quote Shakespeare when I say it is the summer of our discontent to have Stella leaving. There has been no one in this city who has done it quite like her – a combination of news and kindness and whenever she shoots an arrow of criticism, she makes sure the tip is coated in honey.” The always eloquent Dominic DiFrisco said, “Stella, as you know, means star and you have illuminated our city and we love and honor you. What you do is prove that America is not so much a melting pot but more a beautiful mosaic. We are not homogenized; in fact, we make up that mosaic with our different cultures and religions and we come together and celebrate that standing together.” NBC5’s Alison Rosati said, “Thank you for being so kind, authentic and genuine and for really knowing the people that you write about. I pray that God will bring you whatever is meant for you and thank you for having such a beautiful heart. You are Stellalicious!” Stella spoke last and her memory amazed me. She went around the room and spoke lovingly about each and every guest – she even knew their kids’ names and grandkids! Friends included Dori Wilson, Marion and Tony Durpetti, Michelle Durpetti, Abe and Angela Thompson, Dominic and Carole DiFrisco, Sadako and Warner Saunders, Nina Mariano, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Susan Wexler-Mazzoni and Don Mazzoni, Channel 2’s Suzanne LeMignot, Joann Serpico, Tony Romanucci, Dr. Maria Ashley, Lou Rago, Merri Dee, Vince SanFillipo, Shell Reyes, Regina Daniels, Michael Foster, Vera Chitty, Michelle Molise and Lynn and Richard Ciota among others. I sure hope she doesn’t stay “retired” for long! “I know I can be replaced, but I cannot be duplicated,” said Stella….amen to that!

EXPO Chicago brought its world-class art show back to town after an eight-year hiatus and more than 3,000 attendees couldn’t have been happier! I'd been to one at the Merchandise Mart in an earlier incarnation and agree with the event planners, that it wasn’t the place to be. Important art needs to be seen in a dramatic space and nothing could’ve been more exciting than being at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall for the opening night event, Vernissage. Benefitting the Museum of Contemporary Art, this night included art, sculpture, photographs, large-scale installations and so much more. Vernissage – a French term for art openings – means “varnishing day” and evokes the energy and excitement that surround the opening of this major art event. Vernissage first began in 1982 as the opening celebration for the Chicago Intl. Art Fair. Over the years (1982 – 2004), the MCA welcomed more than 40,000 guests who enjoyed what became one of Chicago’s most sought out and influential art events of the year. Co-chairs for opening night included MCA trustee Jennifer Aubrey and MCA Women’s Board member Marilyn Fields. Ms. Aubrey, known for her keen eye and exquisite taste, is the creative director for local jeweler, Sidney Garber. Ms. Fields is a long-time MCA supporter and is a notable collector of contemporary art. Tony Karman, president and director of EXPO Chicago, attracted more than 100 major dealers to the fair including Anthony Meier Fine Arts, Richard Gray Gallery, David Zwirner, Landau Fine Art Gallery, Kavi Gupta and Annely Juda Fine Art Gallery (where the Mayor was seen browsing). Top restaurants served up their tastiest fare with Marc Brooks’ Park 52 being a standout with its crawfish etouffee. The night raised more than $375K for the MCA and I can’t wait to see it return next year! Seen on the scene were Mayor Rahm Emanuel (honorary chair) and wife Amy Rule, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, critic and Chi
cago native Jerry Saltz, actor Billy Zane, artists Theaster Gates and Dawoud Bay, M.K. Pritzker, MCA Trustees including Sara Albrecht, Liz and Eric Lefkofsky, Liza and Marc Brooks, Lois and Steve Eisen, Larry Fields, King Harris, Penny Pritzker, Cari Sacks, Helen and Sam Zell, Sven Asmus, Elysabeth Alfano (“The Dinner Party”), Martha and Rich Melman, Chef Michael Kornick, Grant DePorter, Randy Zweiban, Carol Prins and John Hart, Gregg Zgonena and Chicago Look’s Isa Giallorenzo among others. (To view more pics from this amazing evening, please click here!)

Debi Lilly is a nationally-renowned event planning expert based in Chicago. She is the founder and president of A Perfect Event – one of Chicago's most successful special event companies with a faithful (and famous) following, including Oprah Winfrey! She regularly appears on “The Nate Berkus Show” with delightful party planning tips and now, for her own eMag Launch Party recently, her jewel box of a store (located at 3050 N. Lincoln) was transformed into Versailles' 18th century France with the theme “Marie Antoinette Champagne and Let Them Eat Cake Fete”! Imagine vanilla pink champagne cakes paired with vanilla moscato cakes filled with luscious champagne sabayon and this was just for starters! There was even a real-life Marie Antoinette perched atop the elaborate sweets table saying “Let them eat cake”…and everyone happily obeyed! Even the cocktails were reminiscent of something Louis XVI would serve! The visuals were astounding (as only Debi Lilly and her team can do) and what a perfect Launch Party for her latest creation, A Perfect Event eMagazine! We were happily transported to an elegant and most stylish place in time! Congrats to my Francophile friend, who continues to amaze us ALL!! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…and to see ALL party pics, please click here!)

I’m a great lover of antiques – my husband says I collect so many things that the only thing left that he can afford to collect are toothpicks…LOL! Sadly, things are so expensive nowadays that my collecting efforts are nonexistent but I do love to keep abreast of the auctions and see what’s going on out there. Of course, my favorite auction house in the world is Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, but sometimes I receive catalogs from places I’ve never done business with but which are still very interesting. On October 14th, in New York at the Fletcher Sinclair Mansion, Heritage Auctions will host the largest meteorite auction ever! Some 125 meteorites will be offered. You can buy the largest piece of the moon – four pounds – ever offered to the public (estimated to sell for $340K+); a large slice from the most famous meteorite in the world, the Williamette, which is housed at the Rose Planetarium/American Museum of Natural History (est. $85K-$110K) or a small meteorite that fell in 1492 and was later chained up in a church so it couldn’t fly back into the sky (estimate $4K-$5K). A number of these rarities and novelties are from the Macovich Collection, which is curated by NY’s own “meteorite man” Darryl Pitt and is considered one of the largest and most important private collections in the world. This auction also coincides with the 20th Anniversary of the Peekskill fireball – the most videotaped meteorite descent of all time – which burnished its legacy by puncturing a Chevy Malibu in its final act just 30 miles outside of Manhattan (estimated to sell for $45K). A special highlight of the auction will be a meteorite from a piece of the planet Mars that legendary recording artist Herbie Hancock had in his pocket during a gala performance at The Kennedy Center last fall for the Thelonious Monk Institute. This bit of Mars, along with Hancock, were “gazed upon” by the likes of Jennifer Hudson, Colin Powell, Madeleine Albright and Aretha Franklin, among others. (One hundred percent of the auction proceeds of this lot go to The Monk Institute, which is devoted to nurturing musical excellence. For more info on this fascinating event, please click here!

Speaking of the moon (how ‘bout that segue?), Luna Negra Dance Theater’s Board of Directors and Gala Host Committee including co-chairs Kristin Conley and Jennifer Edgcomb, Executive Director Joanna Naftali and handsome Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, kicked off their
2012-2013 season and saluted Hispanic Heritage Month with the annual Noche de Luna Gala on September 13th. More than 400 attendees helped raise over $234K to support the on-going work of Luna Negra as a springboard for Latino contemporary choreographers. At the Gala, the company presented its Luna de Honor Award to Pamela Crutchfield, who has been a tremendous advocate for the company for many years. Chicago Community Trust was also presented with a Luna de Honor Award for its ongoing support. The evening, which took place at Venue SIX10, began with a cocktail reception where guests could admire the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class and enjoy improvised performances by the LN dancers throughout the space. The crowd then entered the Feinberg Theater to enjoy a performance of LN repertory excerpts, including work by Sansano, Argentinian choreographer Asun Noales and Brazilian choreographer Fernando Melo. Following a dinner by Wolfgang Puck Catering, guests enjoyed dancing to the sounds of Latin band Son de la Habana in the delightful Kehoe designed space. For more info about the fantastic dance company, please visit www.lunanegra.org. (Photos by Cheryl Mann…to view more pics, please click here!)

I’ve been to quite a few birthday celebrations in my day but none quite as interesting and creative as Sarah Beardsley’s which was held at the Red Moon Theater Company warehouse! I’d never been to this Wonka-esque spot before but I sure won’t ever forget it! As we wound our way around the large building to the back entrance, whimsical characters directed us to the entrance which was lit by two spotlights. Once you entered the space, there was a riot of activity – lights flashing, bubble-blowing DJs, cranes lit with Christmas lighting, spiral moss-covered spinning cones, mountains of food as art, a huge bar, a large space cleared for dancing and lots and lots of Sarah’s friends. No one really knew what to expect since the invite had no mention of a birthday but I ferreted out this info at the party. I should’ve known something like this was afoot when she climbed onstage to happily belt out tunes with the band The Breakfast Club with girlfriend Kate Murray! Attendees included Dr. Lauren Streicher and husband Jason Brett, Becky and Scott Etzler, Dr. Chris Randolph, Susan and Joe Credle, her lifelong friends Mary Jo Fasan and Cindy Lucaccioni, Helen Melchior, Christopher Clinton Conway, Ashley Wheater and Brian Johnson, Jan Melk, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Chris Long, Lyn McKeaney, Magda Krance, Rebecca Besser, Andreas Zafiridis, Janet Owen and Brian Smith among many others. Congrats and Happy Birthday Sarah! (Additional pics by Glenn Kaupert…click here to view more fun pics!)

I love events that benefit our four-legged friends and the amazing Big Night Celebrity Chefs Benefit, hosted by Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, did just that on an exciting evening on September 19th. Guests mixed and mingled under the fabulous Tiffany Dome of Preston Bradley Hall in the Cultural Center while renowned Chef Jackie Shen, along with a dozen of her well-known celebrity chef friends, prepared delicious dishes. As the Geof Bradfield Trio played, guests enjoyed specialty drinks such as the Cosmopoodlitan and the Muttini! A live auction included diamond jewelry from Sidney Garber and a dinner in-home prepared by Chef Shen. For the past 11 years, FCACC has been dedicated to caring for animals from babies who have to be bottle-fed, to animals with injuries to elderly animals who just need someone to love and care for them. (To learn more, please visit www.fcass.org and check out more photos here!)

Mitchell Canoff is one helluva photographer and his friends want you to know it so we’re hosting a wonderful, love-filled exhibition of his work at Paris Club on Monday, October 8th from 5 to 8 p.m. Host committee members include the Melman family, Judy and Howard Tullman, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Sugar Rautbord, Cheryl Sloan and Chris “Hambone” Cameron among others. A percentage of photography sales will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The night, which will also be Mitch’s 70th birthday party, will include a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and music by Lilianna Wosko. (RSVP to mitchellcanoff@comcast.net and visit www.mitchellcanoffphotography.com for more info.)

A reminder! Friends of Conservation (FOC) will celebrate its 30th anniversary, on Friday, October 12th with “Chicago Celebrates the Whole Wild World.” The Conservation Ball, founded by Reute Butler and her family, will feature silent and live auctions, dinner, and a thrilling wildlife exposition. Paul Iacono is super-sizing this event (it will be at Harold Washington Library Winter Garden, located 400 S. State St.) so you won’t want to miss it! Tickets are $350 for general admission and $250 for guests 35 or younger. Hope to see you there!

So many thanks to CAMP Cosmetics and founder Michael Perich, who I mentioned in an earlier posting as honoring me with my very own lipstick, “Candid Candace Coral.” We shot the campaign this week with photographer Amie Hana at her beautiful home in Lindenhurst – she has her very own lake right outside her doorstep and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful! I was even more honored that Michigan Avenue Magazine sent OnAirr videographer Peter Lambrinatos to capture the session for its “behind the scenes” online content. Congrats to Michael on his wonderful cosmetics line which is botanically-extract based. He launched his career working for some of the biggest makeup and skin care names in the business while living in Chicago. As his clientele portfolio grew so did his recognition: He’s been seen on FOX, WGN and CBS to name a few. In 2003, he decided to embark on his own unique business venture and CAMP COSMETICS – whose slogan is “Women are beautiful…We make them pretty” – was created. On May 1, 2004, Michael officially opened CAMP COSMETICS with his first store location in Glen Ellyn; with its mixture of modern minimalistic décor and stainless steel, the store has a chic vibe that attracts women from all over Chicago. I’m thrilled to be the face of this fabulous cosmetics company and hope you get a chance to try it for yourselves! 🙂

I was also honored to be included as the cover feature story for VS Chicago Magazine, the premier Russian language luxury lifestyle magazine in the United States. Based in Chicago, they are the go-to source covering a variety of topics for all Eastern European communities. I had a delightful interview with marketing and advertising manager Olga Ruda and journalist Natalie Berezovska and I hope you’ll enjoy it in the October issue. Pierre Burnaugh shot the cover with wardrobe courtesy of Neiman Marcus on Michigan Avenue (thank you, Tina Koegel and Cynthia Holbrook!!!) and Adelaide on Wells Street. I’m lusting after the black J. Mendel dress from Neiman’s!

More big thanks go out to fashion blogger Isa Giallorenzo for featuring me in her NewCity style column. If you aren’t aware of her blog, “Chicago Looks,” then you’re missing out on some great street style fashions! Congrats Isa and keep up the good work!

That’s it for this week! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it! As always, please send me any suggestions or comments (good or bad) and I will try to implement them. My goal is to keep you entertained, informed and grateful to live in this great city like me! 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I just love this “gift with heart” idea from Wrist Wishes! WW was created by Nicole LaCross as a way to combine her love of fashion with her love of charity and she succeeded on both counts. Built on the concept of shining little glimmers of hope into the lives of all who wrap them around their wrists, these organdy ribbons include charms representing Animal Abuse, Childhood Cancer Awareness, Heart Disease, Fashion For a Cure and many more. Aside from adding a pop of color and style to any outfit, WW donates $2 from every purchase ($10) directly to the charity represented by your bracelet. Congrats Nicole!!! (To buy YOURS, please click here!)

2 Comments

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Web/Tech, Weblogs

Tagged as A Perfect Event, A Perfect Event eMagazine, Abe and Angela Thompson, Adelaide, Alison Rosati, Amie Hana, Amy Rule, Andreas Zafiridis, Annely Juda Fine Arts, Anthony Meier Fine Arts, Aretha Franklin, Ashley Wheater, Asun Noales, Becky Etzler, Big Night Celebrity Chefs Benefit, Bill Van Dahm, Billy Zane, Brian Johnson, Brian Smith, CAMP Cosmetics, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Coral, Cari Sacks, Carol Prins, Celeste Van Dahm, Chef Michael Kornick, Cheryl Mann, Cheryl Sloan, Chicago Community Trust, Chicago Looks, Chris “Hambone” Cameron, Chris Long, Christopher Clinton Conway, Cindy Lucaccioni, Colin Powell, Conservation Ball, Cynthia Holbrook, Darryl Pitt, David Zwirner, Dawoud Bay, Debi Lilly, Dominic DiFrisco, Don Mazzoni, Dori Wilson, Dr. Chris Randolph, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Maria Ashley, Elysabeth Alfano, Eric Lefkofsky, Expo Chicago, Fernando Melo, Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, Friends of Conservation, Gale Gottlieb, Gene & Georgetti’s, Geof Bradfield Trio, Glenn Kaupert, Grant DePorter, Gregg Zgonena, Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Harold Washington Library Winter Garden, Helen Melchior, Helen Zell, Herbie Hancock, Heritage Auctions, Howard Tullman, Isa Giallorenzo, J. Mendel, Jan Melk, Janet Owen, Jason Brett, Jay Gottlieb, Jennifer Aubrey, Jennifer Edgcomb, Jennifer Hudson, Jerry Saltz, Joann Serpico, Joanna Naftali, Joe Credle, John Hart, Judy Tullman, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Kate Murray, Kavi Gupta, Kehoe Designs, King Harris, Kristin Conley, Landau Fine Art Gallery, Larry Fields, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Lilianna Wosko, Liz Lefkofsky, Liza Brooks, Lois Eisen, Lou Rago, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Lyn McKeaney, Lynn Ciota, M.K. Pritzker, Madeleine Albright, Madeleine Grynsztejn, Magda Krance, Marc Brook, Marc Brooks, Marie Antoinette Champagne and Let Them Eat Cake Fete, Marilyn Fields, Marion Durpetti, Martha Melman, Mary Jo Fasan, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Merri Dee, Michael Foster, Michael Perich, Michelle Durpetti, Michelle Molise, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mitchell Canoff, Museum of Contemporary Art, Natalie Berezovska, NewCity, Nicole LaCross, Nieman Marcus, Nina Mariano, Noche de Luna Gala, Olga Ruda, OnAirr, Oprah Winfrey, Pamela Crutchfield, Paris Club, Park 52, Paul Iacono, Penny Pritzker, Peter Lambrinatos, Pierre Burnaugh, Randy Zweiban, Rebecca Besser, Red Moon Theater Company, Regina Daniels, Reute Butler, Rich Melman, Richard Ciota, Richard Gray Gallery, Ross Glickman, Sam Zell, Sara Albrecht, Sarah Beardsley, Scott Etzler, Shell Reyes, Sidney Garber, Son de la Habana, Stella Foster, Steve Eisen, Steve Starr, Sugar Rautbord, Susan Credle, Susan Wexler-Mazzoni, Suzanne LeMignot, Suzie Glickman, Sven Asmus, The Breakfast Club, The Dinner Party, The Nate Berkus Show, Theaster Gates, Thelonious Monk Institute, Tina Koegel, Tony Durpetti, Tony Karman, Tony Romanucci, Vera Chitty, Vernissage, Vince SanFillipo, VS Chicago Magazine, Warner Saunders, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Wrist Wishes

August 16, 2012 · 10:34 am

PLAYBOY DOMINATES GLAMOURCON 53!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=fw1000&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8767726&parentId=8767653&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

CHIC CHAPEAUX AT PARKWAYS LUNCHEON BENEFITS KIDS’ CAMP

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 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 children and their families 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 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 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- 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 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 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 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 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)

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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!)

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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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!)

Thanks to “Windy City Live” for having me on again recently! I appeared in a segment with Time Out 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 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!)

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8344637&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

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.

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 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, 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!

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 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! 🙂

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.

2 Comments

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

Tagged as 10022-Shoe, all of the participating stores, Amanda Puck, April Shink, Author Talks, Bill Kurtis, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Brad Goreski, Bravo, Brian Atwood, Brittney Payton, Burlesque Hall of Fame, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol Prins, Carrie Lannon, Chicago Bulls, Chicago magazine, Chicago Tribune, Chloe Green, Common Threads, Cook-Off, Council Ring Outstanding Volunteer Award, Dirty Martini, DJ Madrid, Donna LaPietra, Dr. Jake Deutsch, Dr. Stacie McClane, Dusty Stemer, Elizabeth Taylor, Erica Stimac, Evil Hate Monkey, Factor Model, Fame Fashion and Flavor, Fashion Night Out, Fulton’s on the River, Gerard Butler, Heiji Choy Black, Henri, Ian Grabiner, In Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival, Indigo Blue, Inspired by Nature: The Garfield Park Conservatory and Chicago’s West Side, Jacquelyne Mitchard, Jam Productions, Jean Antoniou, Jens Jensen Award, Jens Jensen Legacy Project, Jerry Mickelson, Jo Ann Nathan, Julie Selakovich, Kate Covington, Kerry Wood, Kyle Korver, Lannon, Laura Baginski, Michelle L'amour, Mila Samokhina, Miley Cyrus, Murray Hill, Neiman Marcus, Paris Club, Park West, Parkways Foundation, Peninsula, Playboy, Real Housewives of New Jersey, Roxi D’Lite, Saks Fifth Avenue, Second Nature A Love Story, Send a Kid to Camp Fund, Sherry Lea Holson, Sir Philip Green, Stacey Jones, Stage Door Johnnies, Studio L’amour, Superstars of Burlesque, Taboo Tabou, Teen Leadership Club at Jesse Owens Park, Teresa Guidice, The Shops at North Bridge, Tiffany & Co., Time Out Chicago, Tina Koegel, Topman, Topshop, Tribune Tower, Trixie Little, Tzar VIP Lounge, Ulta Beauty, Water Tower Place, Wendy Krimins, Windy City Live, Yvette Cusack

August 23, 2011 · 11:09 pm

THE WINDY CITY WELCOMES HOLLYWOOD KINGS

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

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

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

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Friday, September 9th

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

Sunday, September 11th

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

Saturday, September 17th

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

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

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8319842&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

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

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