Tag Archives: Catholic Charities

FLEURS DE VILLES, A STUNNING FLORAL EXHIBIT, POPS UP IN CHICAGO

Plus: Dollywood!; Expo Chicago; Common Threads' BIG news; Very Versace; Columbian Ball, Best Pumpkin Patches; Top events through year's end; Rush's Bright Futures; Chicago Botanic Garden's elegant Harvest Party; Chicago Loop Alliance's Illumination Gala; Beth's awesome new mag; Rev Up on WGN Radio and Fox 32; Allegrezza's Boozy Brunch; This & That; Darling videos and SOOOO much more!

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ACS_0057An exotic, real life garden came to life recently at 900 North Michigan Shops and it was heavenly! You could

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Fleurs de Villes co-creators Karen Marshall and Tina Barkley with David Murga.

smell the exhibit before you actually came upon it. Chicagoans and tourists alike, stopped to smell the roses, and countless other varieties of flowers, at ​the U.S. debut of Fleurs de Villes. The five-day pop-up exhibition of fresh floral couture was hosted by 900 North Michigan Shops and featured 16 different mannequins showcasing custom couture handcrafted by Chicago’s

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900 Shops' Taylor Stucker, Stacy Kolios and Alicia Skruba with ZZAZZ model.

top luxury florists. In addition to the collection of fresh, floral couture, the creative activation also featured daily market stalls, floral workshops and floral-forward menu

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HMR Designs

offerings. Fifteen of Chicago’s leading florists, including HMR Designs, Kehoe Designs, The Revel Group, Flowers for Dreams, Flower Firm, Flora Chicago, Fleurs Chicago and more were paired with world-class brands to design stunning displays of custom couture created out of magnificent, fresh flowers. The five-day extravaganza kicked off on Wednesday, September 25 with a VIP Preview Party, where over 275 guests attended and the creations were unveiled. A panel of guest judges voted on their favorite

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Festive floral attire was the order of the day.

works. I was proud to be a judge alongside Michelle Alegria (Fox WFLD Ch. 32); Rosie Clayton (influencer); Salina Wunderle (Sr. horticulturist for Green Houses, Chicago Botanic Garden) and Joe Barnes (marketing

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With ZZAZZ model wearing headpiece created by Kehoe Designs.

manager for Kennicott Brothers). VIPs in attendance included Elle Cashin, Editor, Modern Luxury Weddings; Clark Lichty, Fashion Model ; Susanna Homan, Chicago Magazine;  Christopher Marrs, Fashion Model & Photographer;  Rina Puri & Sonia Shah, bloggers, Chicks And Salsa ; Derrick Taylor, owner Taylor &

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Designer Pavel beside his award-winning creation.

Co. Events; Brian Smith, Joffrey Ballet PR director; Tom Kehoe, Kehoe Designs; Jennifer Worman, blogger & influencer, Red Soles & Red Wine;  Tom Carto, Chicago Helicopter Experience; Tracey Tarantino, Zzazz Productions ; Dana Nolan, ZZAZZ

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Flowers for Dreams designers for L'Occitane wins Best in Show.

Productions; Jillian K. Horn, blogger, Chicago Mom Blog; Andrea Levoff, blogger, Dope Ass Mom; Brianne Garritano, event planner, Marquette Avenue Events; Stacy Kolios, Sr. Dir. Of Marketing, 900 Shops; ; Alicia Skruba, Marketing & Business Development, 900 Shops; Taylor Stucker, Asst. Marketing & PR Manager, 900 Shops and David Murga, PR guru, Kehoe Designs/900 Shops

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Joffrey Ballet dancers surround the stunning Joffrey mannequin.

and all-round cutie, among others. Highlights of the five-day activation included a pop-up shop from Chicago Botanic Garden, Hendrick’s Gin bar promoting their Original Blend and IMG_8310 Midsummer Solstice blends, and floral-related food and beverage dining experiences from Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Daily floral workshops were held in Le Jardin, a special garden-like setting created by Kehoe Designs. A number of workshops were offered that included presentations by Fleurs de Villes co-founder Tina Barkley; L'Occitane en Provence; Modern Luxury's Amy Allen, publisher,and Elle Cashin, editor-in-chief; Aster Hall and Mila Floral Design School.  After viewing the 15 fresh floral mannequins at the 900 Shops, visitors were invited

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Detail of Chicago Magazine mannequin by Flora Chicago.

to view the 16th mannequin that was exhibited at Chicago’s Four Seasons Hotel lobby. The public was then

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ZZAZZ model wearing Kehoe Design headpiece.

encouraged to vote on their favorite mannequin for a chance to win a trip to Seattle to attend the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival in February 2020 where Fleurs de Villes will pop-up as a feature attraction. The Fan Favorite winners were: 1st Place – Modern Luxury Weddings’ mannequin, created

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Derrick Taylor and Ramsey Prince (center) with cute friends.

by HMR Designs;  2nd Place – Four Seasons Hotel Chicago’s mannequin, created by The Revel Group; 3rd Place – Elena’s Garden Events, Northwest Flower & Garden Fest.  The Judge's Winners were: Most Realistic–HMR Designs for Modern Luxury Weddings Magazine; Most Original–Designs by Pavel for 900 North Michigan

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Joffrey's Brian Smith and dancer.

Shops; Best in Show: Flowers for Dreams for L'Occitane; Florist Favorite–The Revel Group for Rigby + Peller. Established in 2015 by lifestyle and media professionals Karen Marshall and Tina

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Kehoe Designs mannequin surrounded by neon.

Barkley, Fleurs de Villes is a unique, luxury experiential brand, grounded in hyper-local content. In each city the company presents in, they feature the works of top florists in that city, creating stunning fresh floral mannequins aligned with, and inspired by, partnered brands presented in elegant gallery-like settings. I'd never seen anything like it. If you missed it, and it returns (hopefully), run don't walk to the 900 Shops! (For more info on this unique pop-up, click here!)

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Dollywood! We made it!

For our next great adventure, we decided to cross something off our bucket list–a trip to Dollywood! Last year, it was the home of the king, Elvis and Graceland, and this year, we traveled to the home of the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton. Parton jointly owns Dollywood

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Chuck in front of a replica of Dolly's tiny family home.

with Herschend Family Entertainment and it is kitsch, at its finest. It's located in the tiny mountain resort town of Pigeon Forge (pop.

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Pumpkin LumiNights at Dollywood.

5,875, motto, "The Center of Fun in the Smokies"), just five miles north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dollywood has gone through many incarnations before becoming what it is today. I remember in the 70s, it was called Silver Dollar City. To be clear, this is no Disneyland but, if you love kitschy down-home things like we do, then you would love Dollywood. Situated on 150 acres (that includes Dollywood's sister water park,

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The Grist Mill at Dollywood where delicious cinnamon bread is made from scratch.

Splash Country, Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction), the property features 50 rides and attractions, 9 roller coasters

Chuck with Pumpkin Polly

Chuck with Pumpkin Polly.

(which we avoided like the plague), 3 water rides and a large variety of traditional crafts and music, indigenous to the area. We got very lucky hitting the park just as its "Great Pumpkin LumiNights" opened (through November 2). This attraction, the largest addition ever made to Dollywood's fall festival, has to be seen after dark to be appreciated with over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins, sculptures, whimsical scenes and characters like the Pumpkin Master, Pumpkin Polly, Patches the Scarecrow and Pumpkin Penny, all eager to pose for photos. Besides this Halloween themed addition, the

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A show of hands at Waxman Company–they're newlyweds too!

park offers so much of interest. I loved seeing the replica of Dolly's tiny home, built by her brother and furnished by her

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SOOOooooo many Christmas shops!

mother with original family treasures. How 11 kids ever fit in there is a mystery to me but it worked for her and inspired her life and music, making Dolly well "Dolly", the one and only. We took a ride on a coal-burning steam locomotive that was built in the 1940s. And since Chuck and I both come from railroad families, this was a real treat. As with any theme park, the gift offerings were unique and varied. We bought a set of plaster hands of Chuck and I holding hands, cinnamon bread at the Grist Mill, wild

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Our "Coat of Many Colors" ornament.

elderberry jelly, matching T-shirts, a Christmas ornament and more. I collect ornaments from wherever we travel and the one I found at

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Hobnobbing with the Colonel in London, Kentucky.

Dollywood was so perfect–a tiny "Coat of Many Colors" created in honor of Dolly's popular song about her mother creating a patchwork coat for her that made her feel "rich" even though they were dirt poor. It's a funny and odd thing that Christmas is so very popular in Pigeon Forge. A Christmas store seemed to be on every corner offering every type of holiday item there is. There were so many restaurant choices inside (and outside) the park serving southern fare like fried chicken,  ham and beans, grits, cornbread and biscuits, BBQ, funnel cakes–nothing with any dietary fiber whatsoever. In the Spotlight Bakery, you could watch a 25-pound apple pie being

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I can only imagine what it must be like here at Christmastime!

baked in a cast iron skillet. One slice weighs three

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The famous 25-lb. apple pie at Dollywood.

pounds! (And it can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. for $189.99. Wouldn't this be a great idea for a party?!) I wish I could've bottled those luscious aromas, omg. Being a bird lover/watcher, I was particularly interested in the Wings of America Show, sponsored by the non-profit American Eagle Foundation. We missed the show but a beautiful facility next door allowed guests an up-close-and-personal view of nonreleasable raptors (due to injury or human imprinting) that included Maverick the Harris Hawk, Friar Tuck the African Pied Grow, Poe the Northern Raven, Tecumsah the Golden Eagle and many others.

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A charming chapel in the woods in Dollywood.

The park also includes nearly 1 million cubic feet of

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A coal-burning, steam locomotive takes you on a 20 minute ride inside and outside of Dollywood.

natural habitat that houses the largest presentation of (again, nonreleasable) bald eagles. One of the most amazing, and wonderful, things about Dollywood was the preponderance of senior citizens who worked there. I love the fact that Dolly was intent on giving EVERYONE jobs at the park and she succeeded. Workers there were so friendly and highly competent–such a smart move, for all concerned. Another cool factoid–Dollywood is the only theme park in the world with a calming room for kids with autism. So thoughtful! While we were there, we took our friends Bonnie Spurlock and Geoff Burton up on their suggestions. We drove to Knoxville for a delightful brunch at the Tupelo Honey

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The trip was exhausting for some of us.
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Our relaxing view from the charming RiverStone Resort & Spa in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Cafe, located inside the historic Oliver Hotel in Market Square (Loved it!) and nailed the best candy store in Dollywood for Chuck (The Old Fashioned Candy Store). The town of Pigeon Forge is filled with unique attractions of its own like the Muscle Car Museum, the World's Largest Knife Store, a Nascar Speed Park, Wax Museums, the Smokey Mountain Opry, antique malls, helicopter and zip-

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We'll be baaaccckkk, hopefully for Dolly's Smoky Mountain Christmas Spectacular!

lining opportunities, Christmas shops, distilleries, Civil War museums, a Jurassic Park attraction, the WonderWorks amusement park and more pancake houses per square foot than anywhere else in the world. We loved it ALL! The drive down and back was delightful too, even at a little over 8 hours. The scenery was spectacular and Rooney, Chuck and I were just happy being together on the road, away from any distractions except each other. (For more info about Dollywood, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area, click here).

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EXPO CHICAGO 2019 Patron Reception Image Courtesy of Northern Trust
Michael O’Grady, Madeleine Grynsztejn, Michelle T. Boone, Mac MacLellan, and President/Director of EXPO CHICAGO Tony Karman.

EXPO CHICAGO, The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, concluded its eighth edition at Navy Pier on Sunday, September 22, with record attendance of international collectors and

Kelly Drew Townsel  Lori Crosley  Carrie Lannon  Liza Brooks. Image by Jeremy Lawson Courtesy of MCA Chicago

Kelly Drew Townsel, Lori Crosley, Carrie Lannon, Liza Brooks.

curators alongside 38,000 visitors, presentations from exhibiting galleries and strong sales, in what was its most global edition to date. On opening day alone, the exposition welcomed more than 8,000 VIP guests while raising $265,000 to benefit the Museum of

3. MCA Vernissage Patron Reception Co-Chairs Lori Crosley (Left) and Mary Kay Touhy (Right). Image by Daniel Boczarski Courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO

MCA Vernissage Patron Reception co-chairs Lori Crosley (L) and Mary Kay Touhy.

Contemporary Art Chicago during Vernissage. Collectors, curators, artists and art professionals enjoyed an exclusive first look at 135 leading galleries from 24 countries and 68 cities throughout the Pier’s iconic Festival Hall. “We are extremely proud of our recent eighth edition—the quality of work presented by our participating

Ellen-Blair Chube  Naomi Beckwith. Image by Jeremy Lawson Courtesy of MCA Chicago

Ellen-Blair Chube and Naomi Beckwith.

exhibitors translated into strong sales, an overwhelmingly positive response to our critically acclaimed programming, and significantly contributed to our powerful forward momentum,” said EXPO CHICAGO president/director Tony Karman. “Chicago

7. EXPO CHICAGO 2019 Vernissage. Kiernan Miller. Image by Daniel Boczarski Courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO

Kiernan Miller

knows how to welcome the world and our date alignment with the third Chicago Architectural Biennial, our special exhibitions and presentations, along with our ongoing collaborations with our renowned museums, institutions and galleries contributed greatly to our successes,” he added. “I am confident that many more calendars will be marked for Chicago next September.” Notable collectors, curators and museum directors in attendance included Marcella Beccaria 9. EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO by Daniel Boczarski_2 (Castello di Rivoli Museo d'Arte Contemporanea), Greg Bell (Vulcan, Inc.), Étienne Bernard (Frac Bretagne), Fred Bidwell (Collector), Giovanna Borasi (Canadian Centre for

8. EXPO CHICAGO 2019 Vernissage. Sara Ismael. Image by Kevin Serna Courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO

Sara Ismael.

Architecture), James Cuno (J. Paul Getty Trust), Mireya Escalante (Coppel Collection), David Eskenazi (Collector), Larry and Marilyn Fields (Collectors), Maxine and Stuart Frankel (Collectors), Pamela Joyner and Fred Giuffrida (Collector), Jack and Sandra Guthman (Collectors), Lisa Goodman and Josef Vascovitz (Collectors), Louis Grachos (Palm Springs Art Museum), Kenneth C. Griffin (Collector), EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO by Justin Barbin_5 John and Sharon Hoffman (Collectors), Kirse Junge-Stevnsborg (Malmö Art Museum), Naima J. Keith (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Prospect.5) Noel Kirnon (Collector), Alicia Knock (Centre Pompidou), Patricia Marshall (Art Advisor), Marie Martraire (San Francisco EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO by Daniel Boczarski_3Kadist Foundation), Lisa Melandri and Wassan Al-Khudairi (Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis), Ron Pizzuti (Collector), Sheikha Hoor al Qasimi (Sharjah Art Foundation), Claire Le Restif (Centre d'Art Contemporain d'Ivry — Le Crédac), Marc Richards (Collector), María Inés Rodríguez (Museu de Arte de São Paulo), Beth Rudin DeWoody (Collector), Alain EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO_3Servais (Collector), Jill Snyder (moCa Cleveland), Marjorie and Ambassador Louis Susman (Collectors), Roberta Tenconi (Pirelli HangarBicocca), Michael and Leslie Weissman (Collectors), and Helen Zell (Collector). The EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO by Justin Barbin_3eighth edition marked considerable institutional representation, with museum curators, trustees and patrons from worldwide cultural organizations including Andy Warhol Museum, Aspen Art Museum, The Brooklyn Museum, Centre Pompidou, The Contemporary

10. EXPO CHICAGO Vernissage 2019. IN SITU- Janine Antoni  Bridle  2000. Image courtesy of EXPO CHICAGO by Kevin Serna

IN SITU- Janine Antoni Bridle 2000.

Austin, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, de Young Fine Arts 5. EXPO CHICAGO 2019 Vernissage. Image of KASMIN. Image Courtesy of EXPO CHICAGOMuseum of San Francisco, Garage Museum of Contemporary Art Moscow, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Milwaukee Art Museum, The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Palm Springs Art Museum, Pérez Art Museum Miami, Pulitzer Arts Foundation, Royal Academy of Arts London, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), Serpentine Galleries, The Speed Art Museum, and more. (Photos by Daniel Boczarski, Justin Darbin, Jeremy Lawson, Kevin Serna)

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IMG_2064A huge congrats to Versace Chicago's GM Ann Wallace, Events Manager Wallis Wagenseil and Regional Director Erin Hill who hosted an elegant afternoon that won't soon be forgotten by some lucky ladies from the Service Club

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Versace dinnnerware flown in specially for this occasion.

of Chicago who were mixed with some of Versace's top clients. The deliciously decadent luncheon at Le Colonial featured, get this, Versace Rosenthal dinnerware and stemware flown in especially for this occasion! Ladies who lunched included Myra Reilly, Paula Borg, Sherry Lea

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Versace gown worn by model Kaia Gerber for her 18th BD, channeling her mom Cindy Crawford who wore it in the 90s.

Holson, Cheri Lawrence, Kathy Cook, Tracey Tarantino, Darby Hills, Susan Gohl and moi. (Kristina McGrath and Mamie Walton were invited but unable to attend.) At the conclusion of the luncheon, Versace presented an in-store fashion show that showcased its exquisite 2019 Fall/Winter collection. One of my favorites was the black, strappy gown that

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With Versace Chicago GM Ann Wallace, love her!

super (baby) model Kaia Gerber wore that her mom,  Cindy Crawford, made iconic back in the 90s! Each look was more stunning than the one before and the accessories! Oh my! What an honor to be included for this very special day! Love you Ann Wallace! (A portion of the sales were donated to the Service Club)

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The gang's all here for Common Threads!

Another very special luncheon was hosted by Common Threads' Linda Novick O'Keefe (CT founding CEO) and Josh Fox (corporate engagement manager) on September 24. Since Linda has moved to Austin, Texas, it was so exciting to have the old gang (board members and

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Common Threads' Jesus Salgueiro, Linda Novick O'Keefe and Chef Art Smith.

supporters) back together again at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden! She shared some very exciting news about the nonprofit that was founded by Chef Art Smith and his Jesus Salgueiro back in 2004. Since then, Common Threads has

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Chef Art Smith's world famous fried chicken at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, 52 W. Elm.

now expanded to 13 cities, provided more than 4 million hours of nutrition and hands-on cooking education programming to more than 400,000 students and families. Mark your calendar NOW to celebrate the org's 15th anniversary at its special Chef Takeover on Monday, March 16! I'll have more exciting news to share about this later! Stay tuned! Seen enjoying the best fried chicken around were Ken Norgan, Greg Cameron, Gabrielle Martinez, Clarisol Dusque, Marilyn Vitale, Julius Rhodes, Constance Pikulas, Laura Schwartz Santiago, Andrea Schwartz Stryker, Sonya Jackson and many others.

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Dani McGowan wears the Thunder Dress from MSI's Wired to Wear exhibit. The dress lights up when someone close by claps._John Wheeler  Museum of Science and Industry  Chicago

Dani McGowan wears the Thunder Dress from MSI's Wired to Wear exhibit. The dress lit up when someone close by clapped!

The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) held the 39th annual Columbian Ball on October 5 with over 650 guests in attendance. The event raised approximately $1.8 million, which will go toward funding the Museum’s

David and Pat Mosena; Colleen Smith  Len Wagner_John Wheeler  Museum of Science and Industry  Chicago

MSI president/CEO David Mosena and wife Pat with Colleen Smith and Len Wagner.

educational programs, exhibits and experiences. Guests enjoyed food, drink and dancing while exploring MSI’s temporary exhibitions, Wired to Wear™ and Makers United. The Ball was co-chaired by Erin and Jason Pritzker, Peng Zhao and Cherry Chen with Mayor Lori Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman serving as honorary co-chairs. The one and only Bill Kurtis served as emcee for the event that began

April and Robert Jones_John Wheeler  Museum of Science and Industry  Chicago

April and Robert Jones.

with a reception featuring an aerialist duo; a tour of the science of spirits through a whiskey sampling in the Liz Stiffel Tasting Room; an embroidery station in MSI’s

Maarten de Jeu  Smita Shah  Nick Nagele of Whiskey Acres  Christy and John Mahoney_John Wheeler  Museum of Science and Industry

Maarten de Jeu, Smita Shah, Nick Nagele, Christy and John Mahoney.

Wanger Family Fab Lab (where guests customized their own accessories) and music spun by DJ Nick “Nonstop” Nicholson. Guests were able to see garments from Wired to Wear in action, highlighting the intersection of fashion and technology. The apparel from the exhibit was worn by models, giving guests an up-close look at the strides designers are making in wearable technology. Dinner was served in the Museum’s Rotunda amid some of the Museum’s most recognizable exhibits, including the

Two guests view Electric Dreams  a garment inside MSI's exhibit Wired to Wear_JB Spector  Museum of Science and Industry  Chicago

Guests view Electric Dreams, a garment in MSI's exhibit "Wired to Wear."
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Aerialist Angela Fernandez.

Coal Mine, the United Airlines Boeing 727 jetliner and the 40-foot tornado in Science Storms. The meal was accompanied by a collaboration of sound between DJ Emilio Abadia and the Jeff Gibbs Quartet. Throughout the evening, guests met Wired to Wear innovators inside the exhibit and viewed their inventions on display in the exhibit and in the Lower Court. Guests also had

Aerialists perform inside MSI's Entry Hall_John Wheeler  Museum of Science and Industry  Chicago

Aerialists perform inside MSI's Entry Hall.

after-hours access to the Museum’s hands-on interactive exhibits as well as opportunities to create their own keepsake from the evening, test out the latest in virtual

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Co-chairs Jason and Erin Pritzker and emcee Bill Kurtis.

reality technology and even play video games on the Giant Dome Theater’s five-story wraparound screen. After dinner, the Citadel Securities Wired After Party kicked off in the Museum’s Entry Hall, featuring a live set by DJ Nicholson and a special presentation by STAGE, a collaborative performance between engineers and artists at the University of Chicago who presented science in a whole new context through motion-capture. (Photos by John Wheeler and J.B. Spector)

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Co-chairs Susie Healey  Wilmette  Colby Gaines  Chicago and Buffy Maier  Winnetka - FB chairs

Co-chairs Susie Healey, Colby Gaines and Buffy Maier.

The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center proudly presented a new annual Fall Benefit, Bright Futures, on Friday, September 6, at Theater on the Lake. The party drew more than 450 supporters and

Dr. Omar Lateef  CEO  Rush University Medical Center and Dr. Najia Shakoor - Hinsdale

Dr. Omar Lateef, CEO Rush University Medical Center, and Dr. Najia Shakoor.

featured cuisine by Blue Plate Catering with live musical entertainment from New York-based The Bob Hardwick Sound.  The event was chaired by Woman’s Board members Colby Gaines, Susie Healey and Buffy Maier. The evening included craft cocktails featuring La Luna Mezcal and food stations celebrating gustatory favorites from the Bronzeville,

Theater on the Lake designed by HMR

Theater on the Lake decor designed by HMR Designs.

Chinatown/Pilsen, Taylor Street and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. Bright, fresh décor by HMR Designs featured a blue, green and poppy color scheme. In keeping with the theme, guests’ donned bright cocktail attire too making the event a visual feast. Illuminated rectangular gold frames served as table centerpieces   – a

Alison Victoria and Michael Marks  Chicago

Alison Victoria and Michael Marks.

nostalgic nod to the makeup mirrors used backstage at the Woman’s Board’s beloved Rush Fashion Show, which culminated with a 90th anniversary show in 2016. A surprise for guests upon

Lewis Wilson and Jakeline Jungbluth

Lewis Wilson and Jakeline Jungbluth.

departure was the Boxcar Betty’s food truck stationed out front serving crispy fried chicken sliders and bite-sized pecan pies to-go. The event raised more than $470,000 to support the Rush Community Service Initiative Program, known as RCSIP. In 2019, The Woman's Board pledged $500,000 towards raising funds for this initiative that was established in 1991 to create a network of community service programs that matched Rush Medical College students' interests in social and healthcare needs of Chicago.(Photos by Widia Viti Photography and Rush Photo Group)  

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Ball co-chairs Sally Brown Thilman, Amie Alfe and Wendy Labrum.

The 3rd annual Harvest Party was held on the beautiful late-summer grounds of the Chicago Botanic Garden on September 13. The event raised $100,000 to benefit Windy City Harvest, the Garden's urban agriculture 20190913-RJC_8270education and jobs-training initiative to help build a local food system, healthier communities and a greener economy. More than 200 guests sipped cocktails, enjoyed a variety of small bites and listened to the sounds of DJ Famos! in the Helen and Richard Thomas English Walled Garden. J&L Catering served a farm-to-table dinner in McGinley Pavilion. The party was co-chaired by Amie Alfe, Wendy Labrum and Sally Brown 20190913-RJC_8332 Thilman. Established in 1998, the Guild supports the Garden through service projects as well as fundraising events. Led by co- 20190913-RJC_8314presidents Jennifer Brown and Jennifer Neighbours, the group has more than 100 members representing a diverse group of young leaders from the Chicago area. The Chicago Botanic Garden, one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, is a 385-acre living plant museum featuring 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas. Located at 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe, the Garden is smoke free, free to the public and open year round.

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Illumination Award recipient Dean Lane, Colleen Spector and John Wells.

The Chicago Loop Alliance hosted its 15th annual Illumination Gala on September 20 at the Hilton Chicago. The event featured dinner, dancing, drinks, interactive dessert stations, photo booths and live

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Andrea Schwartz, Megan Bueschel, Stacie Hartman and Matt Ferguson.

music by Hey Jimmy. This year’s Illumination Award was presented to Dean Lane, area general manager, The Palmer House and Hiltons of Chicago, for his dedication to Chicago Loop Alliance and his tireless efforts to serve the City

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Laura Tortorello, Nora Gainer and Kristen Cote-Favaro.

of Chicago and its hospitality and tourism community. The Illumination Award highlights civic and community leaders who, through their ideas, leadership and counsel, have increased the experience and well-being of Loop businesses, residents and visitors. I know Dean has done this in spades and am so happy for

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Laura Caplin, Alanna Elinoff, Katherine Banich and Terry Banich.

his being recognized in such a wonderful way for all of his efforts. Gala co-chairs were Colleen Spector, corporate sales, Southwest Airlines, and John Wells, general manager, Hilton Chicago. Gala raised more than $256,000 to

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Simone Randolph, Ariyana Randolph Miles and Dana Patmon-Johnson.

support public art projects and events in the Loop, including ACTIVATE, The Gateway, winter activations in the Pedway, State Street banner projects and more. The Illumination Gala’s presenting sponsor was Pressure Washing Systems; its cocktail reception sponsor was Streetplus; and its program book sponsor was Bannerville USA.  In case you're not familiar with The Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation, this nonprofit pushes the limits of what a downtown can be for its residents, workers and visitors. The Foundation seeks to enrich the Loop’s public spaces through artistic expression and free cultural programming. Kudos for all you do CLAF!

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IMG_8820You won't want to miss the Curated-Chicago's Launch Party for its fall issue on Tuesday, October 22 at Regal Cinemas (1471 W. Webster). I'm so excited to be a contributor for this issue featuring the one and only, Janet Lee Mandell as its glamorous covergirl (with GREAT photos by Barb Levant) The issue includes a behind-

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Beth Rosen (mag founder, top L), covergirl Janet Lee Mandell, Tiosha Bailey and Kendra Chaplin.

the-TV look at the powerhouse that is Sally Lou Oaks Loveman; Susan G. Komen's new executive director Tiosha Bailey; how Amy Boyle is making a difference; Bela Gandhi's dating advice; tailgating tips from Beth Clinton Peterson; brand building advice and

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First issue with Val Warner as covergirl!

tips from Ari Krzyzek, Marie Hale, Lauren Ramsey and everything you need to know about the party and gala scene from moi! Plus SOOOOO much more. Join us from 6-8 pm to celebrate and congratulate the magazine's fab founder/CEO Beth Rosen! (For tickets, $15-$30, (which will be directed to a local charity, TBD) and more info, click here!

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Ji Suk Yi  Lauren Lein  Dave Eanet and Justin Kaufmann --Steve Cochran Show--Vivianne Linou--producer--10-7-19

With Ji Suk Yi, Lauren Lein, Dave Eanet and Justin Kauffman.

Special thanks to the Steve Cochran Show for having Apparel Industry Board president/fashion designer Lauren Lein and me on to talk about AIBI's Rev UP 2019 event on Thursday, October 10! Producer Vivianne Linou, host Justin Kaufmann ((Steve was on vaca), Dave Eanet and Steve's new co-host and our beautiful Rev Up emcee, Ji Suk Yi, were so welcoming and enthusiastic about this event that will shine a spotlight on Chicago's fashion community. (Listen here!) Thanks for helping us share the news! Here's hoping you can join us! Tickets are available, beginning at $75 (and payable at the door)! For more info, please click here!

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Best Buddies galaFall is filled with fabulous events that you won't want to miss! Check out my top picks HERE through the end of the YEAR! Broadcast 0 Museum's "Rock on TV" on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at the Museum; Fleurotica at the Garfield Park Conservatory on Friday October 18; Chicago Children's Choir's "Red Jacket Optional" on Friday, October18; Navy Pier's ExPIERience Gala on Wednesday, October 23; Eversight Mystery Masquerade on Thursday, October 24 (honoring Sherry Lea Holson and Dr. David Lubeck) at the Peninsula; Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit luncheon (featuring Martin Short) on IMGFriday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago; Susan G. Komen Gala "All Bets on Pink" at the Palmer House on Saturday, Fleurtotica-Postcard-2019-PRINT-1October 26; WITS (Working in the Schools) "Blackboard Affair" at the Geraghty on Saturday, October 26; Chicago Consular Corps Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Hilton Chicago; Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation's "Little Black Dress" luncheon on Wednesday, Csm_FB_Web_Banner_Tickets_on_Sale_Now_2019-left_5cbb4a4879November 6 at the Skokie Country Club; Best Buddies Champions Gala, October 18 at Theater on the Lake; The Service Club of Chicago Gala on Friday, November 1 at the Four Seasons; The Chicago Urban League's "Golden Fellowship Dinner" at the Hilton Chicago on Saturday, November 2; Children's Oncology Services' "Camp One Step" at the Ritz-Carlton on Friday, November 8, Flight-of-Fantasy_LRMisericordia Heart of Mercy 50th Anniversary Gala on PPB Save the DateSaturday, November 9 at the Hilton Chicago; St. Jude fashion show/luncheon on Sunday, November 10 at the Donald Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont; James Jordan Foundation's "Bags for Kids" Gala on Thursday, November 14 at the Palmer House; Jackson Chance Foundation's "Ping Pong" Ball on Thursday, November 14 at the St. Jane Hotel; PAWS Chicago Fur Ball on Friday, November 15 at the Drake Hotel; Auditorium Theatre Gala, performance at the theatre followed by dinner at the Palmer House on Saturday, November 16; La Rabida Gala on Thursday, November 21 at the Ritz-Carlton; Brushes-Chicago-Invitation-2019Illuminate 900, a holiday celebration like none other at the Eversight Mystery Masquerade October 24 900 North Michigan Shops; Botanic Garden's "All Aboard" gala at the garden on Friday, December 6; Catholic Charities' St. Nicholas Ball at the Hilton Chicago on Saturday, December 7; Lurie Children's Ball on Saturday, December 7 at the Hilton Chicago; JDRF One Dream Gala at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center and Arie Crown Theater; WINGS Program Brunch, Sunday, December 8 at the Four Seasons; Old St. Patrick's AcesUP2019_inviteGraphicEmerald Ball on Friday, October 18 at the Hilton Chicago; Muslim American Leadership Alliance Gala on Thursday, November 7 at Chicago History Museum; The Crohn's & Friends of Prentice -OctoberColitis Foundation's Making an Impact: Havana Nights on Saturday, November 9 at the Drake Hotel; Simply From the Heart's Blush & Bowtie son November 9 at W City Center; Friends of Prentice An Evening in Oz on October 26 at Radisson Blu Acqua; Chicago Light's Toast to Tutoring on Tuesday, October 15 at Dance Studio; ALS Foundation's Hope Through Caring at Revel Fulton Market on Saturday, November 2; Urban Prep's Aces UP! on Thursday, October 24 at Chicago Sports Museum; Randolph Street Market, October 26/27 at Plumber's Hall. And then we get to start ALL over again next year!!

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IMG_8873More fun press for tonight's (Oct. 10) AIBI REV UP from Sylvia Perez at Fox 32. Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions will produce the runway show) and I shared a sneak peek at the event with looks from three of the participating designers, Elda de la Rosa, Lauren Lein (AIBI president/designer) and Peach Carr! Sylvia will also be gracing our runway! Hope you can join us for this Salute to Chicago Fashion! (Watch segment here!)

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48958e57-21a6-4560-b0ff-0eee28082761Raise a glass and support the Allegrezza singers on Saturday, October 19 (10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m) at Bar Roma Chicago (5101 N. Clark). Allegrezza's Boozy Brunch fundraiser will celebrate and support this incredible community of joy, music and service with brunch eats, bottomless mimosas, a FAB silent auction, prizes, a raffle and so much more! Get tickets/more info here! (They're accepting silent auction donations as well!)

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That's all for this week's edition! I hope you've enjoyed hearing about all the great things 9.25.17-Pumpkin-Patches-1024x807happening in and around town (and beyond). I'm thrilled Fall has finally arrived! As much as I love summer, I don't enjoy the heat. Sweater Weather is my favorite season! Hope you're making the most of these glorious days. Also, here's a great list of the top Pumpkin Patches near us, so plan a trip and get lost in a corn maze!

 

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P.S. Something to leave you with a smile…Everyone should start their day like this.

 

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

CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW: A HAPPY HARBINGER OF SPRING

Plus former President Clinton keynotes Illinois Holocaust Museum benefit; Giordano Legacy Ball honors Liz and Matt; Glitz & Glamour; A real life love story; The Main Event; Chicago Light's Gala of Hope; Award-winning Kitchen Chat TV; MoCP's DARKROOM; ULBGC'S Youth of the Year Dinner; Susan is Animaltarian of the Year; Outstanding Woman Award for Carol; FashionBar Chicago's Identity; Lisa's new gig; Chicago House's Rhapsody on the Runway; SOS Children's Villages benefit; RMHC Gala 2019; Emma loves DOGS; Videos and SO much more!

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Tony and Sam Griffith

Show director Tony Abruscato with Sam Griffith.

The Flower & Garden Show ended yesterday and I hope you had a chance to see it! A true first look at Spring, the event debuted with "Evening in Bloom," its exciting opening night party that was a welcome introduction to

The Flora Culturist

Design by The Flora Culturist.

warmer weather and the promise of flowers and sunshine! The event attracted over 650 guests to Navy Pier on March 19 where they enjoyed stunning garden vignettes, delicious chef presentations and a unique fashion show, Hort Couture. Themed "Flower Tales: The Story Grows On", the event offered visitors a wide range of experiences, from the unique table presentations at Debi Lilly's DL Party Lab PopUp to various nonprofit displays that included an edible garden exhibit made of sweets created by the kids from After School Matters.

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Hedonia Flowers desgin surrounded by admirers.

During the 30 minute fashion show, outfits created entirely from flowers and plant materials were presented by local designers that included Honey Street Flowers, Hedonia Flowers, The Flower Witch, Zins Flower

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Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event.

Shop, The Flora Culturist, Plump Chicago Floral and Events, St. Frimpong, Onyx Engobor, A Special Touch, Relics Vintage Rentals, Stodola Flowers and Decor, Soule Garden and Styled-It/Bayerly Breathing. (See finale here!) Congrats to Tony Abruscato (show director) and all involved! Honored to emcee this always exciting event! (Check Chicago Tribune here for expanded coverage and more great photos!) (Event photos by Mila Samokhina)

 

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Former President Bill Clinton keynoted the Holocaust Museum & Education Center Humanitarian Awards dinner.

It was a jam-packed crowd of over 2000 for the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center's Humanitarian Awards Dinner at the Hyatt Regency on March 31. To say it was an inspiring night is a gross understatement. Former President Bill Clinton was on hand to celebrate the Center's anniversary (he was on hand to open it 10 years ago too) and to honor Holocaust survivors (over 200 were in the audience). The Chicago Sinfionetta Project Inclusion Quartet set the tone for the evening playing soulful

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Governor J.B. Pritzker conducted convo with Clinton.

melodies from the film "Schindler's List" as names and images of survivors scrolled across two oversized video screens. The Chicago Children's Choir lent their voices to the evening too singing special renditions of "One Day" (by Matisyahu) and "Hallelujah"

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Clinton with Humanitarian Award recipient John Ettelson, CEO William Blair.

(by Leonard Cohen). The highlight of the evening, for me, was the speech delivered by Fritzie Fritzshall (Museum president and Holocaust survivor). Fritzie had spent two years at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp where her mother, two younger brothers and other family members were gassed. (To see this powerful video, click here) Fritzie shared her fears about anti-semitism and the sad fact that

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Emcee Bill Kurtis with Museum president Fritzie Fritzshall.

it's still with us today. She urged the audience to "look our for your neighbors, speak out and never forget the Holocaust." John Ettelson, CEO William Blair, was the recipient of the Humanitarian Award. He spoke about the

ONLINE- #416--Susan Abrams-Museum CEO--Mariah Smith photo

Susan Abrams–Museum CEO.

Museum's mission to "remember the past and transform the future." Philanthropist Lester Crown introduced Governor J.B. Pritzker who conducted the conversation with Clinton. Their 30 minute convo touched on who helped shape Clinton's life (his maternal grandfather who taught him about civil rights); his greatest accomplishment while in office ("inclusive prosperity"); his biggest regret (not doing more to intervene in the Rwandan genocide) and his biggest fear for our country (cyber security). (To read/see more, check the Chicago Tribune here). (Photos by Mariah Smith)

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Giordano Dance Chicago performs at 2nd Legacy Ball.

Congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago on its 2nd annual Legacy Ball! Over 300 supporters enjoyed an evening of surprising dance performances, fun and delicious food, a live auction and a special tribute to two longtime supporters, Liz and Matt Connelly. The dance party on steroids was held at the Ravenswood Event Center, which surprisingly is one of the few venues I

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Martin Ortiz, Dina Gallay and Sandy Golub.

hadn't been to before. I loved it! Vintage cars and neon signs from the Hayes Collection lined the walls and circled the floor in this huge space allowing guests a walk down memory lane while they enjoyed the party. Buffets were lavish,

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Honorees Liz and Matt Connelly with artistic director Nan Giordano and her son Keenan Casey.

tasty and catered by REC to perfection. The Giordano Dancers thrilled the crowd at every turn performing favorite high-energy numbers throughout the night. Executive director Michael McStraw and artistic director Nan Giordano welcomed the crowd with Nan introducing her friends, the Connellys. A short video surprised the honorees with a special performance dedication. Choreographer Marinda Davis dedicated her

#006--Natasha Overturff  Zachary Heller  Meaghan McHale  Ari Israel and Adam Houston.

Natasha Overturf, Zachary Heller, Meaghan McHale, Ari Israel and Adam Houston.

world premiere of "Flickers" to the happy and deserving pair. The evening concluded with a performance of "SOUL", choreographed by Ray Leeper, followed by a live auction conducted by Nick Coombs of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers. A highlight of the auction was a chance to star in a production number with the dancers that was won by board member Chris D'hondt for $7,000. Congrats to ALL! (To see/read fuller coverage, check Chicago Tribune here!)

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Sandy Goldberg and Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines and A Silver Lining founder Dr. Sandy Goldberg.

A Silver Lining Foundation hosted its annual "Glitz & Glamour" fashion 52682008_2200609983295118_1810665225951641600_n show and luncheon on March 14 before a sellout crowd at the Peninsula Chicago. The event supported the nonprofit's mission to provide respectful and equal access to cost-free breast health testing through a network of partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations. Founder Dr. Sandy Goldberg's long time vision is to ensure that socioeconomic status doesn't affect an individual's ability to obtain timely breast health testing. The event featured a fashion show produced by ZZAZZ Productions with participating local designers and models bedecked in jewels from A. Marek Fine Jewelry. Designers included Mark Roscoe, Leandro Mulet,

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Yvette Klobuchar, ZZAZZ Productions' Tracey Tarantino and designer Mira Horoszowski.

Elda de la Rosa, Ricorso, Tamra Ellingson, Mira Couture, Sylwia Designs and Contessa Bottega. Emcees were Micah Materre and Paul Lisnek with Dr. Sandy serving as the inspiring guest speaker. The evening concluded with a powerful performance by Opal Staples. For more info on this worthy cause, please click here.

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Newly engaged lovebirds Kathleen Henson (wearing Escada) and Chris Sarpy.

It was a lovely affair as more than 120 VIPs raised a glass and toasted the whirlwind romance of local PR maven and CEO of Agency H5, Kathleen Henson, and Chris Sarpy, a health-tech sales executive and recent transplant from Dallas at the elegant DL Loft. Guests gathered in the stylish studio space of celeb event planner Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event, who curated an elegant evening of light bites, Champagne

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Elegant party venue–DL Loft at 3050 N. Lincoln Ave.

and (the couple’s favorite) particularly potent old fashioneds. When they weren’t congratulating the happy couple, guests snapped photos in front of a floor-to-ceiling white rose flower wall or next to the fireplace, which had been stuffed with white and gold balloons. Henson’s close friends Dorri McWhorter (CEO of the YWCA), Courtney Wright (CEO of Gemini Builds It) Ellie Forman (VP of Community Relations of Mesirow Financial) and Heidy Best (renowned stylist) took the mic to deliver heartfelt (and occasionally tearful)

#2--Debi Lilly  Heidi Best and Whitney Reynolds

Debi Lilly, Heidi Best and Whitney Reynolds.

toasts to the betrothed. Henson and Sarpy’s love story is one for the books. The two met in Summer 2018 and quickly hit it off. A dinner in Chicago led to an unusual second date: A weekend getaway in Paris. From there it was time to introduce the families: her five kids (aged 10 thru 19) and his one son, 12. A family vacation to Mexico and countless

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Kathleen, Chris and friends.

trips back and forth between Chicago and Dallas later, the pair knew it was real love. They got engaged at the very place they first serendipitously met through a mutual contact when Sarpy dropped to a knee at local hotspot Prime & Provision. The two plan to tie the knot in summer 2019.  Guests included Bela Gandhi and husband, Andrew Annacone, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Susanna Homan, Noren

Ungaretti, Rochelle Trotter, Zak Stemer, Whitney Reynolds and husband, David Heiner, Jaime Laurita and husband, Rich Lane, Abigail Zoe Martin and husband, Leo Anguiano, Amy Dordeck and husband, Steve Dolinsky, Jamie-Claire Flaherty, among others. Here's to a lifetime of happiness!!!  

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John  Stacie Ryan (Villa Park)

John and Stacie Ryan.

The Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago hosted its 4th annual Patrick J. Ryan Main Event at Drury Lane in Oak Brook Terrace. The ballroom was turned into a boxing ring with a mini-casino for more than 800 guests. Proceeds from this February 1st event directly benefited the Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) Program created for children and youth who have endured the loss of

Amee Kuehlem (Aurora)  Dali Monrejon (Aurora)

Amee Kuehlem and Dali Monrejon.

a loved one to suicide. LOSS provides its members with education, therapy, group support and hope for the future.The event was established by former

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Patrick J. Ryan Main Event

Attorney General of Illinois Jim Ryan and his wife Marie and their family, after the loss of their son, Patrick J. Ryan, to suicide. Jim and Marie Ryan also served as co-chairs for the event again. Boxing has been a family tradition for the Ryans, starting with Jim Ryan Sr., who won the Middle Weight Golden Glove Championship in 1964. His sons, John (Chief of Staff at Catholic Charities), Jimmy and Matt Ryan, all grew up boxing. The program provides individual, family and group counseling for children and youth, as well as consultation for caregivers and key family members and, since 2010, has supported nearly 300 children. (Photos by John Reilly Photography)

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2019 Gala of Hope - mark campbell photography-32_Brian Van Klompenberg and Jen Kurth Van Klompenberg

Event co-chairs Brian and Jen Kurth Van Klompenberg.

The Chicago Lights Gala of Hope raised over $700,000 for youth development and social services on March 1 at the Radisson Blu Aqua. Led by co-chairs Brian Van Klompenberg and Jen Kurth

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Stacy Jackson, Chicago Lights exec. dir. and Katy Frey Bever.

Van Klompenberg, the gala brought together 500 guests for a night of philanthropy and fun. Stacy Jackson, executive director for Chicago Lights, said, "We believe that every child deserves quality educational opportunities and access to arts learning and that all young people deserve a path to a good job and satisfying career. We believe that adults who have found themselves in the midst of hard times deserve to be treated with dignity as they rebuild their lives." Attendees enjoyed an elegantly-decorated space courtesy of Revel Décor, a seated dinner, a live auction 2019 Gala of Hope - mark campbell photography-96conducted by Ron Magers (for the 14th year in a row!) and dancing to the fabulous Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra (for the 15th year in a row!) The event supports the life-changing youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights, a  nonprofit at Fourth Presbyterian Church, that has served over 50,000 people since the inception of its first program and annually serves over 4,000 children, youth, and adults in the city. A portion of the proceeds also benefit the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being at Fourth Presbyterian Church.

 

 

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Appearing on Kitchen Chat TV with hosts Margaret McSweeney and celeb Chef Jaime Laurita.

What a thrill appearing on the award-winning Kitchen Chat TV show hosted by Margaret McSweeney with celebrity Chef Jaime Laurita! The show was filmed in the elegant Viking Showroom at the Merchandise Mart, which was designed by Laurita as well as other locations across the country. Jaime serves as a brand ambassador and they are very lucky to have this one man dynamo–he does it all from cooking to designing to hosting his own show on TLC, "Make This Place Your Home." I had a blast chatting about my

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Best fried chicken recipe from Mama Mary Johnson coming soon!

passions and projects but, the most fun, was cooking with JAIME, who has worked for top stars including Madonna,

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Exquisite Viking Showroom designed by brand ambassador/designer/chef/ TV host Jaime Laurita.

Sting, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Prince, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and many more. He's an author, graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has his own Italian food and wine lines. Whew! Anyway, of course I was nervous, but Jaime can make a cat in a room full of rocking chairs feel calm. I'm definitely not a "cook" but I do love to cook and my fallbacks are always things I learned in the kitchen with my Mama Mary Johnson, who was like a second mother to me. She was born in 1903 in Tupelo, Mississippi and taught me all about authentic Southern cooking–dishes that included Navy beans and cornbread, greens, black-eyed peas, fried green tomatoes, fried chicken and so IMG_1368 much more. On this day, I even brought her Griswold cast iron skillet from the 1930s as a good luck charm and it worked! My chicken turned out fantastic! It's a simple recipe that I will share when I receive the show video but, suffice it to say, Jaime "Jaime-ized" it to make it even more delectable and I can't wait for you to see it! On another fun note, the show just won TWO Taste Awards recently in Beverly Hills!

 

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(From left) Larry Snider  Lalla Essaydi  Karen Irvine

Larry Snider, award-winning artist Lalla Essaydi and MoCP chief curator/deputy director Karen Irvine.

The Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College Chicago (MoCP) hosted DARKROOM, its annual benefit auction on February 28 at Venue SIX10. The event brought in over $230,000 to support the museum's exhibitions, collections and community engagement initiatives. Highlights of the night included a conversation

(from left) Natasha Egan  Dawoud Bey  Catherine Edelman

Natasha Egan, Dawoud Bey and Catherine Edelman.

between MoCP chief curator and deputy director Karen Irvine and artist Lalla Essaydi about her photographic contributions. A ceremony honored Essaydi with the Silver Camera Award, followed by a rousing Raise the Paddle, that brought in over $20,000 to support MoCP education

Krisitn Taylor  Marisa Murillo  Michal Raz-Russo

Kristin Taylor, Marisa Murillo and Michal Raz-Russo.

initiatives, including expanded teen programs and a bus subsidy program aimed at bringing more Chicago Public School students to the museum from underserved communities. Co-chaired by Ted Keim and Marisa Murillo, with honorary co-chairs Bill and Vicki Hood, DARKROOM 2019 hosted over 300 guests, who enjoyed a celebration of photography while supporting the Museum of Contemporary Photography, the only museum of its kind in the region. The Museum at Columbia College is the world’s premier college art museum dedicated to photography. As an international hub, the MoCP generates ideas and provokes dialogue among students, artists and diverse communities through groundbreaking exhibitions and programming.

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Event chair Stacy Fleming  Finalist Kristian  ULBGC Board Chair Craig Labus (Park Ridge)

Event chair Stacy Fleming, finalist Kristian, ULBGC board chair Craig Labus.

More than 200 guests joined the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs for their annual Youth of the Year Dinner, sponsored by Disney and Toyota,  held at the Union League Club of Chicago on February 28. The exciting Clemente Drumline kicked off the evening's festivities that included a program celebrating youth who have overcome enormous odds and

YOY Winner Ruben Plaza  YOY Jr Winner Jazmine Toudle

YOY winner Ruben and YOY Jr. winner Jazmine!

demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments. Beginning at the club-level and continuing through the state and regional competitions, BGC members compete for Youth of the Year honors. The five regional winners will meet in our nation’s capital in

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Beautiful ballroom at the Union League Club.

September where they will compete for the National Youth of the Year title. This year was extra special because 2019 is the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs BIG 100th anniversary of serving Chicago youth! Winners this year included Ruben, a 17 year-old Barreto Club member, won the ULBGC Youth of the Year and Jazmine, a 13 years-old Wentworth Club member, won the Junior honor. Ruben will represent ULBGC at the state competition. (The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is a separate organization from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. Both are chartered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.) (Francis Son photography)

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Susan Gohl--Animaltarian Award from Humane Society  2019 Naples Yacht Club.

Susan Gohl–Animaltarian 2019

Congrats to much loved philanthropist Susan Gohl on yet another honor! The Humane Society of Naples honored her with its Animaltarian Award (isn't that adorable?!) for her support of animals in need at the Naples Yacht Club. Susan, you're a wonder! Thanks for all you do for so many! She will also be honored at the Service Club of Chicago's annual Hat Luncheon, this year themed "A Royal Garden Party" on Friday, May 17 at the Drake. More details here!

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Honoree Carol DiFrisco with Honorable Dorothy Brown.

Congrats are also in order for Carol DiFrisco who recently received the Outstanding Woman Award at the Daley Center on March 14. In honor of Women's History Month, Carol was presented with the award in honor of her excellence in music and the arts by the Honorable Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Other proud honorees were Regina Taylor, Jackie Taylor, Marti Lyons, Yasuko Oura, Sureya Perez, Myrna Salazar, Kim Stratton and Jimalita Tillman.

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FashionBar Chicago will present "Identity," a series of 5 fashion shows FashionWeekCalendar_revisedFinalUpdate and a marketplace, beginning March 31 thru April 7 at Water Tower Place. The Trans Media Fashion show will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Howard Brown Health center and its VOICES program. (For tickets/more info, click here: http://bit.ly/2HnIbsT)

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CASLCongrats to the Chinese American Service League on its 40th anniversary of devoted service to its community! Join them at their annual gala on May 9 at Morgan Manufacturing! Tickets/details here!

 

 

 


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Join Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter at its annual fundraiser "Wags and Whiskers" on April 9 at Ravinia Green Country Club. The Orphans of Storm April 9 nonprofit will celebrate 91 years of serving Lake County! This event is always a fun night of cocktails, dinner and an amazing silent auction all to fund its mission to shelter orphaned dogs and cats, provide the best care possible and place them into loving, forever homes. Individual tickets are $250 (Sponsorships available). Call the shelter directly to purchase tickets at 847-945-0235.

 

 

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WBBM NewsRadio's Lisa Fielding!

Huge congrats to the much loved Lisa Fielding! We will be hearing her beautiful voice as the new co-anchor (opposite Keith Johnson) on WBBM Newsradio weekdays from 3-6 pm! So happy we'll be hearing more from her. Woot! Woot!

 

 

 

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Rhapsody on the Runway

Rhapsody on the Runway fashion show/fundraiser.

Chicago House and Social Service Agency will host Rhapsody on the Runway, a fashion show supporting the agency's efforts to help people living with HIV/AIDS by providing housing and support services. The event will take place on Sunday, May 5, at the Harold Washington Library. For tickets/more info, click HERE: http://bit.ly/2YbzJSH

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SOS Children's Villages May 1So excited and honored to be a "Luminary" and brand ambassador for this year's "Dining & Conversation," the May 1 signature fundraiser for SOS Children's Villages Illinois, a nonprofit that provides foster care for at-risk youth. Other "luminaries" will include actors Christian Bale and David Raisingsuperheroes-blogEigenberg , Leslie Hindman, authors Gillian Flynn and Scott F. Turow, Lou Canellis and Star Jones, among others! Celebrity chefs will include Tony Priolo, Ryan Pitts, George Jewell, Dan McGee, Kevin Cuddihee and Graham Crowe, among others. For tickets/more info, click here) #raisingsuperheroes

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IMG_0001Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana will host its annual gala on Saturday, April 27, at the Geraghty! The event will support local RMHC Houses and their wonderful efforts to keep families of critical ill children close. For tickets, more info, click here!

 

 

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9Little Emma Mertens is a 7-year-old Wisconsin girl who is terminally ill. All she's asking for is letters from dogs! Rooney has already sent his to: Emma Mertens, P.O. Box 230, Hartland, WI  53029. Hope your dog will do the same! Arf! Arf! #EmmaLovesDogs

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RSM-March 30-31Don't miss the next Randolph Street Market coming March 30/31! This always delightful adventure in vintage features over 125 vendors offering everything from antiques to fashion to unique accessories and so much more! The RSM is the largest market of its kind in the Midwest. The Indie Designers market boutiques offer unique Chicago-designed fashion direct from local designers. Art, jewelry and decor made by local crafters are also popular at the market. Hope to see YOU there! For tickets, more info, click here!

 

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Celebrating 50 years of PRIDE, Chicago will host the first-ever "Pride in the Park", on June Pride in the Park-June 29-2019 29 in Grant Park, the event will feature live musical performances by international and local talent, fireworks and more! Get more exciting deets here!

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Spring has sprung after, what seemed to be, a verrrrrry long winter! I hope you've packed Best-Funny-Quotes-It39s-Spring your heavy coats and boots away and are getting ready for some much needed warmer weather! Here's to an exciting spring in Chicago!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Baby elephant discovers his trunk….so adorable! (To find out how you can help save these noble creatures, click here.)

 

 

 

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RPM ITALIAN OPENING BRINGS OUT CHICAGO’S WHO’S WHO!

…PLUS CHICAGO DESIGNERS AT NY’S EMERGE! SHOW, ZOOLA IS OOH-LA-LA, AUTO SHOW HIGHLIGHTS, WINDY CITY WEST’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY, TAVERNITA OPENS BIG, NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - RPM partners Bill Rancic, RJ, Molly, and Jerrod Melman and Giuliana RancicWhen the Melmans speak, everyone listens…especially when it comes to new restaurants! They are the experts, as the opening of their latest venture, RPM Italian Restaurant, with reality stars Bill and Giuliana Rancic (E! Blog 2 - Bill and Giuliana RancicChannel’s “Fashion Police” and Style Network’s “Giuliana & Bill”) proved on Saturday night, February 18th. After months of planning, this new restaurant, in partnership with acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis, Lettuce Entertain Blog 3 - Bears players Charles Tillman and Matt ToeainaYou Enterprises, the Rancics and restaurateurs RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman, will be the new “IT” spot for the Windy City. The star studded crowd of 500 made your head swivel at every sighting. Seen on the scene Blog 4 - Justin Jacobson and Lindsay Avnerwere Coach Lovie Smith and his beautiful wife MaryAnne, Bears cornerback Charles Tillman and his wife Jackie, Windy City Live's Val Warner, Ryan Chiaverini, Nina Chantelle and Eric Himel, the Sun-Times’ and Fox Chicago’s Bill Zwecker, Ronald McDonald Charities’ Doug Porter, Blog 5 - MaryAnne and Coach Lovie SmithSun-Times columnist Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley, ABC’s Sylvia Perez, former Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias with Tara Flocco, fitness expert Shea Vaughn, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, The Mix’s Kathy Hart, Bears Blog 6 - Interviewing Bill and Giuliana and her cute parentsdefensive tackle Matt Toeaina, Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan, Sonya Jackson, Tim and Mary Smithe, the Landon twins, NBC 5’s Marion Brooks, Stefan Holt and Alicia Roman, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano, Watch312.com’s Blog 7 - Jessica Zweig, Lisa Frame and Kelli ZinkBob and Kim Mills and Lindsay, Erica and Stevie Hoey, Paul Iacono, Cindy Burns, Catie Keogh and Jeff Conway of “24/7,” designer Azeeza Khan, Lisa Frame, NBC's Marcus Riley, artist Jesus Salgueiro, Justin Jacobson, Vincent Blog 8 - Thanking the crowdAnzalone, Karen and Marvin Herman, BOKA
Group's Kevin Boehm, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, Amalie Drury and JC Steinbrunner among so many others. Susanna Negovan commented that if a bomb had dropped on this place this night, Chicago Blog 9 - Designer Azeeza Desai Khan and Jesus Salguierowould have to start over! The sexy 8,000-foot space at 52 W. Illinois (in the old Ben Pao spot) was designed by NYC based Monolayer. Its chic, modern and sophisticated décor is set in tones of black, white and grey and is ideal for dinner or late night. And I can Blog 10 - WCL’s Valerie Warner and Ji Suk Yiguarantee you, the bar scene will be something to behold. Acclaimed bartender Paul McGee (director of cocktail development for Lettuce Entertain You) has designed signature cocktails as well Blog 11 - Brenda Arelano and Nina Chantelleas created an expansive list of wines that include more than 100 American and Italian vintners. The restaurant will also include a six-seat Amaro bar and offer a menu of digestives – true to an authentic Italian dining experience. The Blog 12 - The Melman Familymenu presents modern Italian cuisine with a nod to the classics and will include more than a dozen freshly prepared in-house pastas. A highlight will be Mama DePandi’s Bucatini Pomadoro – a much-loved recipe from Giuliana’s mother! – duck angolotti Blog 13 - Stevie, Erica, and Lindsay Hoey with mom Kim Millswith black mission figs, short rib pappardelle, taleggio and black truffle tortellini, whole wood-grilled Branzino, lobster caprese, wood grilled octopus, gnocchi gorgonzola al forno as well as a selection of prime Blog 14 - Lovebirds Susanna and Tom Negovansteaks, chops and slow-roasted meats. Chef Doug Psaltis brings a wealth of experience to this project having earned three stars from the New York Times and a Michelin star while running the kitchen of NY’s Country restaurant. Psaltis has also worked in Blog 15 - A beautiful crowd!some of the world’s most esteemed restaurants including Alain Duscasse at the Essex House in NY, Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant in Monaco, Le Louis XV, Mix in NY, and Thomas Keller’s French Blog 16 - Maurice Wills and Sonya JacksonLaundry in Napa Valley. Psaltis said, “Our focus throughout the restaurant is on offering great product and handcrafted items. The process is traditional, the spirit is Italian and the feel of the space and the food is Blog 17 - Catie Keogh and Marcus Rileymodern.” Giuliana said, “Bill and I knew we wanted to work with the best so we’re excited to have teamed up with the Melmans and partner with one of the country’s most accomplished chefs. Doug has really done an amazing Blog 18 - Rich Melman greets Mama DePandijob creating our menu. Everything he cooks is delish so it was hard to narrow down our final choices!” Fans and foodies alike can get a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant’s planning process and Blog 19 - Chicago Unplugged’s DC Crenshaw and wife Alaynaopening as the details unfold in Season 5 of the Rancics’ hit Style Network show, “Bill and Giuliana,” premiering Monday, April 2nd at 8 p.m. In the meantime, check out the opening night action below on “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com – buon appetito! And to vote for your favorite “Candid Candace Chicago” celebrity interview, please click here!


http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D37486%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Blog 1The Chicago Auto Show closed this Sunday and was another crowd pleaser with more than 8,000 people attending on opening night alone! The 21st First Look for Charity gave the black-tie-mandatory crowd a Blog 2 - Bonnie and Jim Spurlock (R) and friendschance to view more than 1,000 vehicles before the 10-day show opened to the public. Eighteen local non-profits benefited from this night that raised over $1.2 million for charities and included the 100 Club of Chicago, Boys & Girls Blog 3 - With Don Butler, US VP Marketing CadillacClubs, Catholic Charities, The Cradle Foundation and Misericordia. With auto show covering over 1.2 million square feet of space at McCormick Place, this show is NOT high heel friendly but the people at Blog 4 - Emcee Alison RosatiCadillac provided pink slippers and foot massages at their gorgeous booth that also highlighted the Ciel, their dramatic new concept car. Blues Traveler performed while guests meandered through the space and enjoyed many interactive exhibits including a Jeep Wrangler obstacle Blog 5course (one for kiddies, too), a Chevy Volt electric car ride, a playing card table at Scion and a Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 engine experience among others. You could even renew your driver's license at the Secretary of State's booth! Twenty restaurants participated including Fogo de Chao, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Blog 6Andy's Frozen Custard, Devon Seafood, Roy's Restaurant, Real Urban BBQ and David Burke's Primehouse. Cadillac donated two outstanding and much coveted raffle Blog 7 - Cadillac Escalade winner Jill Nelsonprizes: The first prize was won by Jill Nelson of Wheeling who will be driving a 2012 Escalade soon and the second prize, donated by Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, was a Cadillac SRX, won by Homer Glen's Richard Onik. And to make these prizes even more exciting, a year of free gas was included! Blog 8 - A BIG check for Chicagoland charitiesNotables onstage for this giveaway included emcee Alison Rosati, Larry Wert, Steve Foley, Jr. (auto show chairman), Dave Sloan Blog 9 - Elena Samokhina makes a car look good!(general manager) and Paul Brian (director of communications). Since First Look for Charity's inception in 1992, this event has raised more than $34 million for Chicago area non-profits. To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to view “Candid Candace Chicago” video coverage on Watch312.com, please see below!!!)


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Blog 1 - Diane Von Furstenberg , Dionne Williams, Andre Leon TalleyDionne Williams has done it again! Her third Emerge! Fashion Runway Show provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work during New York Fashion Week and has grown quicker than anyone Blog 2 - Jay Alexander (America's Next Top Model) and Ashanticould’ve imagined! Fashion legend Andre Leon Talley was honored at the show held on February 14th at the Broad Street Ballroom. He was presented with his award by legendary designer and president of the CFDA, Diane Von Furstenberg. The spectacular program was hosted by actress Tracee Ellis Ross with co-host model Chavis Aaron. More than 500 guests attended and included retail buyers, media, celebrities and fashion influencers. This Blog 3 -  Andre Leon Talley and Diane Von Furstenbergseason’s elite group of designers included Elie Kuame (Elie Kuame Couture), Michael Alan Stein (The Michael Alan Stein Collection), Gordana Rasic and Omar Villalobos (GOCA Designs), Terri Stevens (Funkinbeautiful Design), Jahi Fitzgerald (Evoli Faccion) and Barbara Bates (Barbara Bates Designs). For more information on this exciting, must-attend event, please visit www.EmergeFashionNYC.com and to view ALL event pics, please click here!

Blog 1 - Abby Zanarini, Elizabeth Foster, Michael Walsh, Kim Theiss, Mary MacGregor, Susan FlynnThe Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo held its 10th annual ZooLa fundraiser in the stunning residence of Elizabeth Foster and Michael Walsh on Wednesday, February 8th Blog 2 - Crowd shot of live auction– an event that earned over $180,000 to ensure that Lincoln Park Zoo remains free and open to everyone year round. During the cocktail hour, Chicago artist Francine Turk created an Blog 3 - Francine Turkoil-on-canvas original to be auctioned later, while guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres by J & L Catering. The event was co-chaired by Susan Flynn, Mary MacGregor and Kim Theiss. Also in attendance were WB president Abby Blog 4 - Katie Gledhill, Gale GottliebZanarini, Lincoln Park Zoo president Kevin Bell and a host of friends of the zoo. John Walcher of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers led the live auction that included lively bidding for a Chanel package. This unique offering included Chanel Fine Jewelry Planete earrings in white gold, diamonds and South Sea pearls plus a private tour of Coco Chanel’s private apartment in Paris. Other packages included a chance to join "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano at his show during NY Fashion Week as well as a Masters Golf package courtesy of Intersport. (To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

Blog 1 - Brenda Sexton, Chicago Link Productions founderDon’t miss Windy City West celebrating 25 years of Chicagoans in entertainment in LA! This event, produced by Brenda Sexton’s Chicago Link Productions, will feature comedian Tom Dreesen as the emcee at RJ and Jerrod Blog 2 - Tom Ricketts will be honored as “Man of the Year”Melman’s popular LA-based restaurants, M Street Kitchen and Stella Rossa Pizza Bar. On Monday, March 5th, many of the original founders of Windy City West will host a private event for 350 VIP guests where they plan to honor Cubs’ chairman Tom Ricketts. Ricketts will receive the 2012 Blog 3 - Tom Dreesen and Rich MelmanWindy City West “Man of the Year” award recognizing his many contributions to Chicago sports and commerce. The event was founded by Chicago writer/producer Ginny Weissman, Tom Dreesen and Rich Melman 25 years ago as a “culinary camaraderie,” a simple annual get-together for fellow Chicagoans yearning for a “taste of home, and now attracts some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Watch this space for further coverage of this annually exciting event!

Blog 1 - Chef Poli at TavernitaCongrats to darling Chef Ryan Poli on the opening of his new restaurant, Tavernita, at 151 W. Erie! Owned and operated by Mercadito Hospitality, this Blog 2 - Chef Ryan Poli on the NBC Today Showrestaurant features the world-class cuisine of chef/partner Poli and embodies the flavors of Spain and Latin America! Opening night attracted more than 500 fans to this hotspot! Can’t wait to try it – congrats Chef Poli!

HP eSmile Flyer - FinalWow, Chicago is exploding with hot new restaurants and lots of excitement, as you can see! Thanks for letting me bring you to the party! Hope you enjoyed the ride and will be back next week for more Windy City fun!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P.S. Please check out this eSmiles program benefitting the new Ronald McDonald House! It’s an easy way for them to make $10,000! Just email a note, card or photo everyday from your emails and your message will be posted in the family room for all of the families to enjoy!  For details, please visit www.hpesmiles.com or send your message to RMHChicagoCNI@eprintesmiles.com .

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WHAT THE VICS (VERY IMPORTANT CHICAGOANS) DID FOR NYE!

…PLUS HARRIS THEATER’S PARIS OPERA BALLET/GRAFF LAUNCH PARTY, JOFFREY’S POINTE OF DEPARTURE, TOP CHEEKY CHICKS 2012, GIBSON’S CHARITABLE NYE CONTRIBUTION, “THE DINNER PARTY” AND MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Erica Hoey, Josh Shrecker, Lindsay Hoey, Stevie Hoey and Clayton LougeeMy, my, my…it’s 2012 already and I feel like I barely scratched the surface of 2011! We were so lucky to spend our New Year’s Eve this year with old and new Blog 2 - Bob and Kim Venezia Millsfriends in Florida. Newlyweds ICB’s Bob Mills and Kim Venezia Mills combined their wedding celebration with a New Year’s Eve party and the results were outstanding! An evening boat ride through the waterways of the Intracoastal eating, drinking and Blog 3 - The Girls!dancing while viewing the most magnificent display of holiday lights I’ve seen outside of the Griswold home! Every mansion was draining electricity like an alcoholic downs whiskey. And Blog 4 - Renee Mills, her daughter, Ashley and Dave Mills plus the peeker!yes, we were enjoying adult beverages as well along with every other food group you can think of. Kim missed her calling as a social director but I’m sure glad she was ours! Kim, along with Bob and their respective families, made a group of around 60 guests feel so very Blog 5 - Myki Romano and Bill Natalewelcome in every way. Every day, there was a BBQ, dinner or a pool get-together and I loved meeting their wonderful friends who had flown in from all across the country to celebrate with the new Blog 6 - The Boys!lovebirds. Congrats, Mr. and Mrs. Mills and watch for their upcoming launch of Chicago’s Online Network, Watch312.com, now with eight shows in production! (To view many more fun Florida pics, please click here!)

I’m always so interested in everyone’s New Year’s Eve plans so I quizzed some VICs (Very Important Chicagoans) to see just what they were up to on the eve of 2012:
 
Blog 1 - With Nate and Helen at 2nd Couture & CocktailsI have always loved Nate Berkus…he was the first person to host The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails at the Illuminating Blog 2 - Padma Lakshmi and Natalie Cole (Jason Binn pic)Company on February 8, 2007, at the request of my co-founder and friend, Helen Melchior, and he will always be a VIC in my heart. Blog 3 - Haley Binn and Colin Cowie (Jason Binn pic)His exciting NYE was spent at Playacar Palace in Cancun celebrating event planner extraordinaire Colin Cowie’s 50th birthday. Other VIP guests included Padma Lakshmi, Niche Media’s Jason and Haley Binn, Clear Channel’s Bob Pittman, Chef Todd English and NBC’s Ted Harbert. Natalie Cole even sang “Unforgettable.” Niceeeee…

Blog 1 - Natasha charming Prince “Charming” CharlesAnd even though this event happened LAST NYE, I certainly thought it was worthy of inclusion: I mean how many people have intimate dinners with HRH Prince Charles in his own home!!?!?! I’ll tell you who, the dynamic Natasha Isaacs and her handsome husband, Michael. Natasha was Blog 2 - Natasha and Michael Isaacs and friendsallowed to invite whomever she wanted and, of course, she invited her dearest friends (who are equally gorgeous) Eva and Cezar Jakubowski along with Bozena and Arie Zwieg. The occasion was to thank them for their fundraising efforts for the Shakespeare Theater that’s being built in Gdansk, a project they’re both passionate about. And who could ever say no to Natasha anyway? 🙂

Susanna and Tom NegovanMichigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan and her handsome husband Tom had quite a night, too. They dined at Charlie Trotter’s and during the course of the evening, Charlie dropped the bombshell announcement that he is leaving the industry to pursue philosophy! Susanna said it made the evening even more special knowing this would be the last NYE celebration at Charlie’s historic restaurant.
 
Blog 1 - Kathy O’Malley PicconeGibson’s Restaurant’s Kathy O’Malley Piccone and John Colletti, along with 75 volunteers (mostly staff) served more than 300 people for Catholic Charities at the restaurant New Year’s Day…after they had served almost 1,000 customers for dinner the night Blog 2 - Gibson’s darling staff with John Collettibefore! Special guests arrived at noon and enjoyed steaks, shrimp cocktails, garbage salads and chicken with all of the trimmings. They were also given goody bags that included warm hats, gloves, scarves and tooth paste and toothbrushes. I LOVE THIS PLACE and their staff – especially Kathy – all of whom are just too wonderful for words!

Blog 1 - Gayle Anthony and sis Julie WeindlingBeautiful Gayle Anthony’s equally gorgeous sister, Julie Weindling and her beau Phil Geier, spent NYE at Round Hill Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Blog 2 - Sir Paul and family at Round Hill in 2011where they hobnobbed with Sir Paul McCartney and his new wife Nancy, daughter Stella and their kids including Beatrice, his daughter from Heather Mills. Also seen at this posh resort were Ewan McGregor, Ralph and Ricky Lauren and Lauren Bush. WHEW! What a hotspot!

Bill Zwecker and Tom Gorman (New York Social Diary Photo)Celebrity scribe and TV personality Bill Zwecker and his partner, real estate broker extraordinaire Tom Gorman spent an exciting NYE at Linda Desiree Rogers, Linda Johnson Rice and Julie Latsko at Ikram PartyJohnson Rice’s spectacular mountaintop home in Palm Springs. Seen on the scene were Desiree Rogers, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, James Bell (Boeing CFO) and wife Mary, Sue Leonis and others. Awwww…what a life!

Amalie Drury and her cute friends on NYE!Darling freelance writer and Chicago magazine nightlife reporter Amalie Drury always has fun wherever she goes and this night was no exception! Her friends Megan and Alex Menocal hosted a dinner party at their Albany Park apartment where they all enjoyed a “beautiful” grilled rib roast, smoked salmon and butternut squash Wellington. They drank countless bottles of champagne, played board games and danced in the living room and, at midnight, Alex played “Auld Lang Syne” on his guitar while they all sang along. Sounds like a perfect night with friends! Love you, AD!

Blog 1 - Paul Iacono and friendsMan-about-town-but-with-a-serious-job Paul Iacono spent NYE with a “triple header” beginning with a dinner at Piccolo Sogno with Elizabeth Brodsky and her family and friends at 7 p.m. sharp. At 10 p.m., he was off to ring in the New Year with bottle service at the Pump Room at Public Chicago, where he and his buddy Brian Blog 2 - Paul Iacono taking a callThompson occupied Booth One, of course, which was reserved for eight and included Brian’s girlfriend Kristin Atchison, Cindy Burns and Spiro Megremis, Kevin Wright, Emily Greenaway and Rhea Lyn. Restaurant Director Jay Schuster was “spot on” and the evening included a midnight champagne toast..but Paul’s night wasn’t over yet! He concluded his NYE at the home of Shabbir Helaly with glam girls Monika Dixon, Saira Cooper and their cute hubbies…life is good in the World of Iacono! Maybe this could be a ride at Universal?

Blog 1 - Lisa Frame and Jessica ZweigCheekyChicago.com founders Erica Bethe Levin and Jessica Zweig know how to party, too, of course! Erica (along with handsome Terry) dined at NAHA for their annual Blog 2 - Erica Bethe Levintradition, enjoying Chef Carrie Nahabedian’s magical dinners that included lobster risotto this year. Jessica hosted a party with 15 of her best friends at her home. Her “date” for the night was Lisa Frame, founder of MugShotMonday.com. After, a stretch limo (courtesy of Uber) took them to Whistler, a mixology-focused hipster bar in Logan Square, where they danced their cheeky cheeks off!
 
Jenny Berg and  Dustin BertaBiz Bash’s Jenny Berg and her BF Dustin Berta spent NYE at Playboy’s party at the Hilton Chicago where they rang in midnight with a confetti
Marcus Riley and Nicole Townsendexplosion, a kiss and a Bunny at the turntable. NBC’s handsome Marcus Riley also attended the Playboy party but not before making dinner for his glam model girlfriend, Nicole Townsend, accompanied by a couple of bottles of champagne. After, they attended friend Justin Jacobson’s Hard Rock Chicago event before the final stop at the Hilton to party with the Bunnies. 

Corri, Spiro and friend!Reality star and Edrop-Off’s Corri McFadden rang in the New Year with her love Spiro Tsaparas and friends for a simple, low-key dinner at Le Colonial. Although NOTHING is low-key in Corri’s world including her Louboutins that she’s rockin’ in this pic!

Mary Lou Gorno and Leslie HindmanAuctioneer extraordinaire Leslie Hindman spent the New Year in style in Paris with long-time friends Mary Lou Gorno and Ann Tomlinson with her charming college-aged kids at Le Grand Colbert. (BTW, Leslie is opening more auction houses around the country so more good things to come for Leslie Hindman Auctioneers!)

Jason and Samantha BerngardCS Magazine’s Samantha Saifer Berngard, along with her hubby and friends, dined at Tony Mantuano’s new restaurant Bar Toma. Afterwards, they headed over to the Hard Rock Hotel where they listened to their wedding band, The Gold Coast All Stars, perform with a few special guests including Hey Champ, American Idol’s Lee DeWyze and O.A.R.’s Chris Culos. CS sponsored the event and they all danced the night away!
 
Amanda and Jerome at Big StarFoodarazzi blogger/XA’s Amanda Puck kicked off the night with BF Jerome Weitzel and friends at Big Star for some tacos and Amanda's French onion soupbourbon. Then they returned home for their second annual French Onion Soup Fete where they prepared a soup recipe from the October issue of Bon Appetit. (Watch for Amanda’s new internet show, “Dish It,” coming soon on Watch312.com!)
 
Pamella Roland (DeVos) and family in CaboFabulous in every way designer Pamella Roland (DeVos) has just become a VIC having recently bought a beautiful new home here! For NYE she and her glam family, along with their friends, sailed the seas near Cabo on her luxury yacht.

(For space reasons, I wasn’t able to include all of the exciting NYE happenings so to see what ALL of the VIC’s did for NYE, please check out my jam-packed Chicago Now column here!)

Blog 1 - Co-chairs John and Alexandra Nichols and Caryn & King HarrisMore than 100 of Chicago’s arts and civic leaders joined presenting sponsors/co-chairs Caryn and King Harris and Alexandra and Blog 3 - Dori Wilson, Paul Boulis and Joy GermontJohn Nichols along with Gala Presenting Sponsor, GRAFF, in celebrating the announcement of the Chicago debut engagement by the Paris Opera Ballet coming in June. This event has been described as “one of the most significant projects for Blog 2 - Graff’s Henri Barguirdjian, Eve Rogers, Anne & Christopher ReyesChicago’s arts community in decades.” The launch party was held at Graff on Oak Street and included VIP guests Anne and J. Christopher Reyes, Suzette Bulley, Consul General of France Graham Paul, Margaret Unetich, Paul and Kelly Kaiser, David and Blog 4 - Phil Lumpkin, Sandy Guthman and Ken NorganLuann Blowers, Sandy and Jack Guthman, Lori Gray Faversham, Ken Norgan, Maya Polsky and Nicolas Bridon, Maria Zec, Dori Wilson and Elton Blog 5 - David and Luann BlowersDixon among others. The Gala, on June 26th, will debut the Paris Opera Ballet’s “Giselle” and mark the company’s first return to America in more than a decade. Mayor Rahm Emanuel will be Honorary Chair. For tickets and more info please visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl.) 

Ashley Zisook (Pic courtesy of Luxe File)I mentioned the CheekyChicago.com founders’ NYE plans a bit earlier and now I am thrilled to announce the Top 10 Cheeky Chicks of 2012! They Kiran-advaniinclude *drumroll please* Kiran Advani (Programming Director, Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture), Bridget Albert (Mixologist, Southern Wine & Spirits), Maryilene Blondell (Development Director, The ALS Assn.), Leah Chavie (Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique), Jackie Chen (Exec. Chef Chicago Cut Steakhouse), Allison Cooke (Marketing Mngr. CS Mag), Charity Gonzalez (Founder UrbanFitClubs.com), Melissa Muoio (personal stylist) and Ashley Zisook (owner Sofia Boutique). What a great list of CHEEKY CHICKS – congrats to ALL!

Pointe of DepartureThe Auxiliary Board of The Joffrey Ballet presents their second annual Pointe of Departure event on Thursday, January 26th from 6 – 9 p.m., at a NEW venue this year, Venue Six/10 at the Spertus Institute, located at 610 S. Michigan Ave. Joffrey Illusion by Mila Samokhinadancers including Temur Suluashvili and Matthew Adamczyk will again be contributing amazing artwork as well as man
y other artists. Fab fotog/artist/jeweler Mila Samokhina will also be donating an exquisite piece entitled “Illusion.” The after-party will be at TZAR (215 W. Ontario), another new venue for this unique and much-loved event. Besides the original artwork, the evening will also include
DJ Sadie Woods, cocktails and Wolfgang Puck’s tasty hors d’oeuvres plus a silent auction! Tickets can be purchased here or by calling 312.386.8979. Congrats in advance to co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella and their dynamic committee! See you all soon!

Blog 1Congrats to Fear No Art’s Elysabeth Alfano, one of the hardest working women in show business, on the birth of her latest Blog 2 - Elysabethproduction, “The Dinner Party.” This live artist talk show takes place at the Mayne Stage Theatre and will launch on January 30th. “The Dinner Party” happens onstage over wine and Blog 3 - Chef Homaro Cantuappetizers created by celebrity chefs in front of a live audience and will stream live on the internet at www.FearNoART.tv. MOTO Chef Homaro Cantu will be featured in the first production along with guest artists Tony Fitzpatrick, Jon Langford and Rachel Rockwell. Get your tix here!  

Follow the Leaders--CS Mag Best of the City 2012 001So 2012 is off to a roaring start! I hope all of your wishes come true this year and that you keep enjoying Candid Candace!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Thanks to CS Magazine for including this blog in their "Best of the City 2012" book (the "Follow the Leaders" article). I am honored and thrilled!

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THE WINDY CITY WELCOMES HOLLYWOOD KINGS

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

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

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

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

Parkways Garden Party Luncheon Thursday, September 8th

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

 

Sub-nav-toque Thursday, September 8th

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

Catholic Charities Gala of the Arts Friday, September 9th

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

Misericordia logo Sunday, September 11th 

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

Banner_Silver_Script Saturday, September 17th

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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