Tag Archives: Chef Art Smith

April 10, 2012 · 10:34 am

FLEUROTICA: GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY’S FLOWER-FILLED & FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ALLIUM’S OPENING (REALLY THIS TIME, NO KIDDING!), JOFFREY’S GRAND GALA, KELSEY GRAMMER’S HUGO HONOR, BEBE’S FIRST BRIDAL SHOP, EVENING IN BLOOM, BIRTHDAY SHOUT-OUTS, COMMON THREADS’ COME PAINT IT BLACK TIE GALA, “ROUTE 66” FLOWER POWER, MERCHANDISE MART’S GLOBAL ANTIQUE SHOW AND TWO NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS!

If you missed this year’s fourth annual Fleurotica Fashion Show, please put it on your calendars NOW for next year! I’ve never seen anything quite like this show which benefitted Garfield Park Conservatory with all of the designs created from flowers, leaves, moss and any other type of plant material imaginable. The backstage action was almost as exciting as the runway with designers scrambling to get the last petal glued on before the show began. I loved seeing the stunning wedding gown floating down the runway by Flower Petal. The Virgin Mary was certainly a show-stopper too with the model clasping her hands in prayer before she walked off the stage. And the tulip skirt was too darling for words by Whole Food Market South Loop. But I’m getting ahead of myself…the cocktail reception was delightful, too, with some of the best food tastings I’ve sampled in a long, long time. Marcello’s served turkey, artichoke and sun-dried tomato paninis. Phil Stefani’s was dishing out delicious Korean noodles with bok choy and mushrooms in a soy-ginger sauce. Kenmare Catering couldn’t keep the blue shrimp coming fast enough! One of the highlights was Goose Island’s clever food and beer pairings: Pulled pork was infused with their latest brew called Pepe Nero and salmon was soaked in Sofie beer. Beyond Events was serving six kinds of bruschetta and Wishbone Restaurant had a line every time I looked so I’m not sure what they were serving! A five-piece band, Visions, played while guests perused the extensive silent auction offerings. Soon, we were all summoned to the second level of Venue One where the show was about to begin. Participating designers included Flower Child, A Stem Above, Zuzu’s Petals, Ildiko Phillips Designs, Natural Beauties Florals, Luxe Floral Chicago, Flower Petal, Anna Held, Scarlet Petal, Blumgarten & Co., Stem Line, Green Jean’s and Whole Foods Market South Loop. Even real life fashion designer Peach Carr showed a stunning creation titled “Driving Miss Daisy” to wild applause, with styling and makeup by AJ’s Salon (who was there filming his “Chicagolicious” reality show). Judging was difficult with all of the breathtaking designs but Borris P
owell, Dennis Remer, Christy Webby and Adam Schwerner seemed to have a lot of fun doing it and awarded “Best in Show” to Blumgarten & Co.’s Lance Larsen. Darling LeeAnn Trotter (NBC 5 entertainment reporter) returned as emcee this year and did a great job, of course! Who doesn’t love LeeAnn?! She introduced the president of Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Eunita Rushing, who reminded us that all proceeds from this event will help to rebuild the roof of the Conservatory which was damaged by a freak hailstorm last summer. (Sixty percent of the roof was destroyed in the Fern Room, Show House and Desert House.) There was also a live auction that included a Jamaican getaway that sold for $2,500, a Chicago Stay-Cation that sold for $1,750, and a Taste of Chicago package and a yacht experience that included dinner for eight – all included in the more than $80,000 that was raised for the Conservatory. Opened in 1908 and designed by noted landscape architect Jens Jensen, the Garfield Park Conservatory is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Please see my fun Watch312.com video below and to see ALL event photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here! (For more info, please visit www.garfieldconcervatory.org.)

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%3D38972%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

The recent grand opening party for the new Allium restaurant attracted an overflow crowd of 600 foodies and fashionistas to the seventh floor of the Four Seasons recently. Host for the night was funnyman Jeff Garlin (see our interview on Watch312.com below). This American restaurant with a farm-to-table menu is by Chef Kevin Hickey whose inspiration was his multi-cultural neighborhood in Chicago where he grew up. The menu features Tallgrass beef (in a brilliant collaboration with CBS’ Bill Kurtis), game bird sausage, suckling pig flat bread, Wagyu beef short-rib sliders, bison tartare, Chicago-style hotdogs, Wisconsin walleye, chorizo cheese chips, oysters, lamb neck agnolotti and crab fritters to name just a few of the delicious offerings. Allium, a name derived from Latin origins, meaning “onion,” pays homage to Chicago whose name comes from the Native American “Shikaakwa” or “wild onion.” The restaurant’s beverage program also echoes the restaurant’s commitment to American artisan producers. The beer list is strictly Midwestern, including the limited-release Allium Roseus, a Belgian red ale created by Chef Hickey and Goose Island’s head brewer, Jared Rouben. The entire renovation of the Four Seasons by Brayton Hughes is one of relaxed elegance with artwork fit for a museum including several Warhols. It’s a must-go! I was proud to be a co-host along with Monika Dixon, Toni Canada, Alexis Cozzini, Vince Anzalone, Lonnie Rodriguez, Jerry Azumah and Susanna Negovan. I hope you enjoy my Watch312.com video of this fabulous night in Chicago! (For more info, please visit www.alliumchicago.com and to see ALL event photos, 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%3D12042802&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D38885%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12042802.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

I am so excited to share the news about this year’s Joffrey Ballet Celebration Gala on Sunday, May 6th at the historic Palmer House Hilton, located at17 E. Monroe. This year’s event will be a tribute to the Joffrey’s dynamic Women’s Board who have raised a staggering $16 million in ten years for the Joffrey, making them the largest single contributor to this organization! The night will begin with a special performance at the Auditorium Theatre beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Afterwards, trolleys will whisk guests to the Palmer House where a cocktail reception will begin in the State Ballroom around 7:30 p.m. The Rich Daniels Orchestra will provide elegant background music to start our evening off in style. A special commemorative tribute video will be presented by co-chair Donna LaPietra of Kurtis Productions with a very clever surprise thrown in. The Arpino Angel Awards will be given to the producers of the film “Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance” and they include Jay Alix, Una Jackman and Erica and Harold Ramis. And for the first time, we are partnering with the Joffrey Auxiliary Board for an exciting “Grand Finale” party in the Empire Room. For this part of the evening (starting at 8 p.m.), tickets will be sold online ($95) and also sold at the entrance ($110) and will include a DJ, fun food, raffle prizes and more. If you buy your ticket for the Grand Finale party online, you can also see the performance! I hope I will see ALL of you there! For Gala tickets/info and Grand Finale tickets/info, please click here! (I am thrilled to be a chair along with Helen Melchior. Our co-chairs are Joan Colmar, Mary Jo Basler, Donna LaPietra, Leslie Hindman, Jan Melk, Mary Pat Burns, Victoria Holdren, Pamella Roland DeVos, Nancy Gottlieb Bauer, Liz Sharp, Kate Benson and Anne Kaplan.)

Chicago’s springtime coming out party, “An Evening in Bloom,” previewed at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show on March 9th at Navy Pier. Twenty-five stylized gardens were featured this year with proceeds benefitting Chicago Gateway Green and Friends of the Parks. In keeping with this night’s theme, which reflected the influence of fashion and design in floral, plant and landscape creations, models strolled through the show wearing new creations by local young designers from the Chicago Fashion Incubator. Cast members from the NBC daytime drama “Days of Our Lives” had a featured garden in the show and greeted guests as they sampled fine wines and hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Dirk’s Fish and Gourmet Shop and Cyrano’s Bistrot Wine Bar, among others. Highlights from this year’s show featured a White House vegetable garden and a lifestyle rooftop garden. Co-chairs for this night were Lee and Sandy Golub. If you missed this delightful show that serves as our harbinger of spring, be sure to mark your calendars for next year!

Don’t miss bebe’s first bridal salon in the U.S. at 109 E. Oak St.! Designer Rami Kashou (a “Project Runway” finalist and “All-Star” contestant) created a collection that covers all price points and is modern, glamorous and feminine. His exquisite couture styling uses luxurious fabrics such as silk taffeta, silk stain, charmeuse, georgette, organza and chiffon to offer something for even the most finicky bride-to-be! I interviewed him for an upcoming new segment on Watch312.com called “Candid Candace Recommends” and you will soon see why! (I will also be offering a $150 gift certificate for our Watch312 VIP Club in the segment so please look for it!) 🙂

Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago International Film Festival will present actor Kelsey Grammer, currently starring in STARZ’ hit show, “Boss,” with the Career Achievement Award at the 48th Hugo Television Awards Ceremony on April 19th at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago. Hosts will be Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini of "Windy City Live." Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Kelsey Grammer will include highlights from his illustrious television career in addition to the Career Achievement Award presentation. Grammer has won four Emmys, two Golden Globes, a SAG Award, an unparalleled 16 Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations, 16 SAG nominations and NOW a Hugo! Awards will also be presented to the year’s winning television commercials and productions, as well as the Commitment to Excellence Award to OPTIMUS. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at www.chicagofilmfestival.com or by calling 312-683-0121.

“Come Paint it Black Tie” on Thursday, May 3rd, for Common Threads' elegant benefit as they merge classic rock ‘n’ roll vibes (music by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound) with an upscale black-tie dinner created by some of the nation's finest celebrity chefs. Culinary rock star chefs Jose Garces, Bill Telepan, Paul Kahan, Marc Vetri, Jared Van Camp and Michael Laiskonis will serve an iconic menu at Chicago’s newest hotspot, Nellcôte, located at 833 W. Randolph. Chef Jared Van Camp and his Element Collective team created Nellcôte, a mirror of Villa Nellcôte, an ornate 16-room mansion on the waterfront of Ville Franche-sur-Mer in the Côte d'Azur region of southern France. The evening’s theme originated from the Rolling Stones album “Exile on Main Street,” which was recorded at the villa during the summer of 1971. Come join CT’s Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero along with Executive Director Linda O’Keefe as they take you on another exciting culinary journey to benefit Common Threads! (For more info and tickets, please click here!)

The International Antiques Fair is coming back to town on April 27th with more than 100 dealers from around the world! The Private Preview Party will kick-off this event which runs through April 30th at the Merchandise Mart from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event will benefit the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and will feature live music, refreshments and early bird shopping. For more info and tickets, please click here.

The Garden Guild of Winnetka will host “Route 66 – A Garden Club of America Flower Show” on May 16th and 17th. The show will interpret this iconic piece of American history with floral designs, horticulture and photography. More than 75 entries from the Garden Guild and other GCA clubs will incorporate a theme of the historic Route 66 highway, also known as America’s Main Street. Built in the late 1920’s, this highway stretched from downtown Chicago more than 2,000 miles westward to California. To “get your kicks,” please click here.

And now for some birthday wishes! Man-about-town with a real job, Paul Iacono, celebrated his birthday on March 29th, with an intimate dinner for friends at RPM Italian Restaurant. Guest Rachel Schwanz of The Entertaining Company did an outstanding job of decorating the private room with beautiful flowers and candlelight much to the delight of Gayle and Jim Anthony, Saira and Chris Cooper, Rhonda Sanderson (who was also celebrating a birthday), William Holdeman, Jennifer Sutton, Cindy Burns, Paul’s sweet dad Ralph Iacono, Monika and Geoff Dixon, Eva Pawlus, Diana Iacono and Cadey and Andrew Hershoff. May it never end, Paul! 🙂 (To see ALL party pics, please click here!)

Another birthday shout-out goes to the ageless, beloved and beautiful Hedwig Golant! Her unique party was held at Ten Pin, where guests tested their bowling skills…some were good, some not so good but everyone had a great time! Love you, Hedwig!

Dear friend and all-around terrific designer, Peach Carr, needs your help! Please tweet and Facebook your friends and ask them to help make her a “Project Runway All-Star” for next season. She sure deserves it! Please vote here, it’s so easy!

WHEW, that’s a lot of news this week! I hope you’re all enjoying the first signs of spring and that you will visit me again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t miss designers Omar Villalobos and Gordana Rasic’s fall/winter fashion show, “The Elegance of Maturity” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, April 13th at Room 1520, located at 1520 W. Fulton. Both emerging designers have shown during NY Fashion Week and are officially launching their collection here in Chicago! A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Arts of Life. For tickets and more info, please click here! Congrats, Omar and Gordana!

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

Tagged as 48th Hugo Television Awards Ceremony, A Stem Above, Adan Schwerner, AJ’s Salon, Alexis Cozzini, Allium, An Evening in Bloom, Andrew Hershoff, Andy Warhol, Anna Held, Arpino Angel Awards, bebe, Beyond Events, Bill Kurtis, Bill Telepan, Blumgarten & Co., Borris Powell, Boss, Brayton Hughes, Cadey Hershoff, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Recommends, Career Achievement Award, Chef Art Smith, Chef Kevin Hickey, Chicago Flower & Garden Show, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago International Film Festival, Chicagolicious, Chris Cooper, Christy Webby, Cindy Burns, Come Paint It Black Tie, Common Threads, Cyrano’s Bistrot and Wine Bar, Days of Our Lives, Dennis Remer, Diana Iacono, Dirk’s Fish and Gourmet Shop, Donna LaPietra, Element Collective, Erica Ramis, Eunita Rushing, Eva Pawlus, Exile on Main Street, Fleurotica, Flower Child, Flower Petal, Fordana Rasic, Friends of the Parks, Garden Guild of Winnetka, Garfield Park Conservatory, Gayle Anthony, GCA, Geoff Dixon, GOCA, Goose Island, Green Jean’s, Harold Ramis, Harry Carays, Hedwig Golant, Ildiko Phillips Designs, International Antiques Fair, Jared Rouben, Jared Van Camp, Jay Alix, JC Brooks, Jeff Garlin, Jennifer Sutton, Jens Jensen, Jerry Azumah, Jesus Salguiero, Jim Anthony, Joffrey Auxiliary Board, Joffrey Ballet Celebration Gala, Joffrey Women’s Board, Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance, Jose Garces, Kelsey Grammer, Kenmare Catering, Kurtis Productions, Lance Larsen, Lee Golub and Sandy Golub, LeeAnn Trotter, Linda O’Keefe, Lonnie Rodriguez, Luxe Floral Chicago, Marc Ventri, Marcello’s, Merchandise Mart, Michael Laiskonis, Monika Dixon, Natural Beauties Florals, Nellcote, NY Fashion Week, Omar Villalobos, Optimus, Paul Iacono, Paul Kahan, Peach Carr, Pepe Nero, Phil Stefani’s, Project Runway, Project Runway All-Stars, Rachel Schwanz, Radisson Bly Aqua Hotel Chicago, Ralph Iacono, Rami Kashou, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Rhonda Sanderson, Rich Daniels Orchestra, Rolling Stones, Route 66 – A Garden Club of American Flower Show, RPM Italian Restaurant, Ryan Chiaverini, Saira Cooper, Scarlet Petal, Sofie, Starz, Stem Line, Susanna Negovan, Taste of Chicago, The Arts of Life, The Elegance of Maturity, The Entertaining Company, Toni Canada, Una Jackman, Uptown Sound, Val Warner, Villa Nellcôte, Ville Franche-sur-Mer, Vince Anzalone, Visions, Watch 312 VIP Club. Cinema/Chicago, Watch312.com, Whole Foods Market South Loop, William Holdeman, Windy City Live, Wishbone Restaurant, Zuzu’s Petals

December 14, 2011 · 9:31 pm

MICHIGAN AVENUE MAGAZINE SCORES ROSIE COUP!

…PLUS WORLD OF CHOCOLATE, A CLEVER WEDDING IDEA, VITAL BRIDGES’ HOLIDAY LUNCHEON, MACY’S MAKES-A-WISH, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS, BEAUTY AND GIFT IDEAS AND MORE!

Michigan Avenue Magazine scored another coup for the publication by featuring Rosie O’Donnell on the December cover along with a feature article cleverly entitled “Rosie the Riveting.” They held a by-invite-only party in the Seven Stars Lounge at Horseshoe Casino. This high roller’s heaven is an elegant room filled with crystal chandeliers, a humidor, extensive bar and friendly servers. Dubbed “In the Red, Holiday Celebration,” this event attracted A-listers who were transported via private motor coach to this gambler’s oasis in Hammond, Indiana. The media info that was provided informed us that a VIP area would be provided for Rosie and her crew and that once she entered this area, no one was to speak with her or film her. Well, I was prepared for the worst. You sensed the minute Rosie entered the room since everyone’s iPhones were waving in the air and the lights from the photogs cameras were flashing nonstop. She stopped repeatedly on her way to the Red Carpet to talk to guests and take pictures. When she got to the Carpet, the cameras’ lights were blinding. And not only did she NOT go to her designated area, but she worked the Red Carpet longer than any celeb I’ve ever seen. She never left…she talked to each and every person who wanted to speak to her and she even allowed a cameraman to check the label on her sweater after someone complimented her on it. In a word, she was a delight! I love her refreshing candor and in her comments about Chicago, she has stated that she loves Table 52 (Chef Art’s fried chicken is a hit!), Paris Club (where she celebrated her show’s launch), Naha (which she said is the “best meal she’s ever had”) and Gibson’s (where she said to “ask for Mo, he’s the best waiter
I’ve ever had.”) The night also included a charity component with guests encouraged to bring a toy to donate to LYDIA Home Association. Mich Mag’s Publisher Dan Uslan and Editor-in-Chief Susanna Negovan welcomed guests and thanked everyone for coming. The Illinois Center for Broadcasting streamed the evening live and I was honored to be the host. Congrats Mich Mag and welcome to Chicago, Rosie!!! (Photos by Mila Samokhina, Cindy Barrymore and Steve Starr…click HERE to see more!) Watch the Michigan Avenue Mag/Rosie party below on Watch312.com! 🙂

watch312 on livestream.com. Broadcast LiveFree

I always love the World of Chocolate event. It is such a celebration of life and love and it benefits the Aids Foundation of Chicago. Everyone from vendors to restaurants to hotels compete for bragging rights in multiple categories. This year, 28 of our city’s finest participated in this annual fundraiser that attracted more than 1,500 guests. Judges included ABC 7’s Kathy Brock, Fox Chicago’s Jan Jeffcoat, Chicago Pride’s Bill Pritchard, Mrs. Illinois International Nicole Khayat, RL’s Rich Varnes, beloved entertainer Miss Lucy Foozie, designer Richard Dayhoff, WGCI’s Loni Swain, entertainer Cyon Flare, NoMI pastry chef Meg Galus and Lookingglass Theatre’s Anthony Fleming, among others. They had a tough decision choosing between entries that included Das Food’s salted caramel, Wow Bao’s steamed bao filled with dark chocolate and coconut, Kendall College’s chocolate- and cranberry-infused macaroons and chocolate Christmas trees, Taberna Restaurant’s chocolate filled dates with bacon, the Peninsula’ stropical chocolate paradise complete with safari girls, Illinois Nut and Candy’s “Wizard of Oz”-themed booth and the Palmer House Hilton’s chocolate-flavored wine that Chef Stephen Henry was generously pouring. I thought they should ALL win but, sadly, this wasn’t to be. After all of the votes were tallied, the winners were Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts for overall tastiest treat (Hot Chocolate Award), Talbott Teas for the most creative use of chocolate (Loco Cocoa Award), Terry’s Toffee (who debuted this year’s delicious limited edition “Holly Berry Toffee”) for best overall presentation (Sweet Booth Award) and the Peninsula for most visually enticing dish (Chocoholic’s Dream Award). The People’s Choice Award went to Just Like U Like It Catering. Their mini chocolate grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato and basil soup shooters was a crowd pleaser along with their chocolate mashed potatoes. This year’s honorary chair Mayor Rahm Emanuel came for a short while and greeted guests. Event chairs Glen Pietrandoni, Ben Stringfellow and Jim Perry also included a Memorial Wall where guests could honor lost loved ones. Held at the Hilton Chicago, this one-of-a-kind event commemorated World AIDS Day and raised more than $300,000 to support AFC and the fight against HIV/AIDS. President/CEO of the AFC David Ernesto Munar had this to say: “We’re so grateful for the supporters and vendors who commemorated World AIDS Day by helping us raise these much-needed funds. As guests walked into the ballroom, they were greeted by a gigantic display of the word ‘HOPE,’ which captures exactly how we feel. And as Charles Dickens once said, ‘There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate!” (View extra pics by Steve Starr HERE and to watch my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!)

Watch live streaming video fromwatch312 atlivestream.com

I get so many emails and information from people with ideas they want to promote and, every once in a while, it’s a really unique concept like the one I recently heard about. “Pap the Question” is the brainchild of ex-paparazzo James Ambler, who is secretly conspiring with nervous grooms-to-be and photographing the magic moment when couples get engaged. Ambler says he got the idea for “Pap the Question” shortly after he himself got down on one knee. “Following my own proposal, friends asked if we had any pictures from this special day. We didn’t, but that definitely planted the seed.” Having witnessed so many different proposals, Ambler has many tips on the subject, including a very common (and easily prevented) mistake most guys make when popping the question: fumbling for the ring. He says have it in an easily accessible place “so you look as smooth as Cary Grant for the reveal.” And for the ladies, one thing future fiancées should NEVER do when their prince proposes is to focus all of their attention on the ring! Ambler says he’s seen this happen so often and it’s not pretty. “While Romeo is longing to stare passionately into her eyes, she’s only concerned with the hardware. Cold!” Originally from Oxford, England, James has been a professional photographer for 10 years. One of his amusing celeb stories included Angelina Jolie, who once took pity on him after James was racing after her on his bike and crashed. She rolled down her window, told him to put his bike in the trunk and gave him a lift in her limo. I think James is onto something with this unique idea for creating even more exciting wedding memories! And instead of celebs, James will now be chasing down young lovers in the Windy City! (www.PaptheQuestion.com)

Vital Bridges’ annual “Celebrate the Spirit” holiday brunch was held recently at the Four Seasons. More than 400 guests attended this fundraiser which netted $158,000 to support nutrition and housing services for low income people living with HIV/AIDS. Guests enjoyed a delectable meal, an exciting live and silent auction and a $10K cash raffle. My longtime friend Paul Iacono, who is an ardent supporter of this organization, reports, “Incredibly, since its founding in 1988, Vital Bridges has provided more than 10 million meals, 600,000 nights of shelter and 250,000 hours of counseling to over 10,000 clients. This year former board chair Ron Anunziato was honored for his longtime dedication and commitment to this all too important cause. Additionally, brunch attendee Emily Angel was the lucky recipient of the $10K cash prize in the annual raffle. Emily is the niece of Bill Holt, one of Vital Bridges’ original founders, who succumbed to AIDS in the mid 1990’s. In the true spirit of the organization and its mission, Emily generously donated her entire cash prize back to Vital Bridges.” Live auction packages included a Lake Michigan yacht cruise with food and beverages provided by Sepia Restaurant, a trip for eight to Puerto Vallarta, and a trip for two to Hawaii. “The annual brunch is an afternoon of delicious food, delightful entertainment and the company of good friends,” said Vital Bridges’ chief healthcare strategist Deborah Hinde. And thanks so much Paul for this info!!! (Thanks to Cindy Barrymore, for these fab fotos!)

As the holidays fast approach, some of us are thinking about what to buy for that sports nut in our families. And if you’re a Cubs fan, then there could be no greater gift (besides the Cubs winning the World Series) than Jimmy Greenfield’s "100 Things Cubs Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die." Written by this Chicago Now guru, the 300-page book is packed with crucial info such as important dates, player nicknames, memorable moments and outstanding achievements by individual players. There is also a to-do list of Cubs activities which include taking in Wrigley Field, traveling to Arizona for spring training and sipping beers at the best Cubs bars around the country. The publication date is March 1, 2012…but I think you should order now while they're still available! Congrats Jimmy!

Holiday dinners abound now with friends getting together to celebrate their happy times, reflect on the year behind and think about the year ahead. It’s also a great time to share those all-important beauty secrets which is one of the things I did recently with a group of glam friends at the retooled Pump Room. As we encircled a big round table, enjoying champagne and sharing gifts we all spoke of what we were grateful for and what our goals were for 2012. This was all very interesting stuff but everyone’s ears seemed to perk up at the discussion of individual beauty secrets so I will share them with you now. Toni Canada’s favorite product is Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream (tube) which she says “helps heal chapped, cracked dry skin and has anti-inflammatory benefits – great protection against the harsh Chicago winters.” Gayle Anthony’s must-have product is Chantecaille’s Anti-Glycation Primer with SPF50+. “I use it with or without makeup, as it gives great protection!” she said. Kristina McGrath swears by GLO Minerals under eye cream. “It tingles when you put it on and is supposed to WAKE up your eyes!” she raved. (Boy, could I use this!) Lynn McMahan loves the Claudio Riaz makeup palette at Barney’s as well as an iPhone app called Suzanne Somers’ Nap 26 because “listening to this particular group of sound frequencies for 26 minutes is equal to three hours of sound sleep according to the NASA researchers who invented it.” Jan Flanagan swears by heated eyelash curlers and coconut oil used as a hair conditioner and makeup remover. As for me, I love going to Che Sguardo (owned by former model Kathy Schmalen) at 161 W. Illinois because she finds truly unique makeup from around the globe and imports it to Chicago. Models and on-air people love this place! I also love the MAC Mellow Mood shimmer highlighter. It’s great for emphasizing cheekbones and looks terrific in photos. And my choice for the VERY best facial moisturizer (goodbye, La Mer), is my new favorite: L’Oreal’s Golden Balm. The best part is you can find it at Walgreen’s…for cheap! So now ya know! 🙂

Hope you’re taking the time to stop and smell the pinecones! I know I am!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you have little ones who still believe in Santa (lucky them!), then don’t forget to take their stamped letters to Santa at Macy’s! Address it to “Santa at the North Pole” and drop it into their special Santa letterbox. For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-a-Wish-Foundation up to $1,000,000!!! To learn more, please click HERE! 🙂

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Television, Travel, Web/Tech, Weblogs

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December 7, 2011 · 7:38 pm

THE ART INSTITUTE’S “LET IT SNOW” IS AN INSTANT FAMILY FAVORITE

PLUS SERVICE CLUB’S HOLIDAY LUNCHEON, HEART OF MERCY BALL, CHEF ART SMITH AND LADY GAGA, PHOTOGRAPHER’S TOCCO PARTY, DECEMBER MICHIGAN AVENUE MAGAZINE, ZACUTO AND MADONNA, VIVA LA VIDA MASQUERADE PARTY LIVE, ICB DONATES TO TROOPS, CHARLES GIVES BACK AND MORE!

The Art Institute’s “Let it Snow” was a debut holiday party that enchanted young and old and from the looks of joy on the children’s faces is sure to become a seasonal favorite. The Women’s Board of the Art Institute, led by president Francie Comer and event chair Laura Werner, were delighted with the turnout of more than 350 guests for this inaugural event. As you entered Griffin Court of the Modern Wing, it felt as if you had crawled inside a giant snow globe. The twinkling snowflakes projected by Frost Lighting all around the room completed this effect as guests looked on in wonder. Balloonists and performance artists greeted everyone at the entrance. Children were dressed in their finest holiday wardrobes and delighted at the balloons fashioned into gingerbread men, reindeer, candy canes and more. Partygoers sampled delicious and creative hors d’oeuvres by Bon Appetit that included treats such as caviar on toast points, beef tenderloin crostinis and butternut squash soup shooters with maple popcorn. To the delight of the kiddies, macaroni and cheese, PB&J sandwiches, ham and cheese lollipops and pigs in a blanket were served. An extensive and colorful dessert display completed the bountiful buffet with s’mores and mixed berry shortcakes, cheesecake lollipops, cookies and cupcakes. As guests sampled the buffet tables, the local gospel choir True Voices of Christ performed on the grand staircase, beginning appropriately with “Let it Snow.” The gingerbread house contest was something to see as competing museum departments vied for the win. Entries included a gingerbread school, fire station, train station, theater and more, all representing scenes of Chicago. Everyone was already on sensory overload when the Midnight Circus stepped into the spotlight. Founded by Julie and Jeff Jenkins, the performance included jugglers, clowns, musicians, dancers, acrobats, aerialists and magicians as well as the “Chicago Boyz” who wowed the crowd. I can’t wait to attend this fun event next year and I know that it will become a perennial favorite. Seen on the scene were Anne and Will Hokin, Naomi Reese, Margot and Mark Bowen, Karen Gray, Max and Jim Farrell, Susan and Michael Canmann, Cathy and Michael Busch, Stephanie and Bill Sick, Jan and Bill Jentes, Melissa and Ward McNally, Elizabeth O’Connor Cole, Connie and David Coolidge, Ikram and Josh Goldman, Kay Krehbiel, Ellen and Jim O’Connor, Penny Pritzker, Gigi Pritzker Pucker, Shirley Ryan, Brenda
Shapiro and Betsy Rosenfield among many others. To learn more about the Art Institute of Chicago, please click here!)

The Service Club’s annual Holiday Luncheon was a beautiful affair held in one of the most magnificent rooms in all of Chicago, the Cathedral Room at the University Club. Event Chair Sheree Valukas, along with her formidable committee, welcomed 150 women who came dressed in their most festive outfits to celebrate and raise funds for one of the oldest philanthropic organizations in the city. A holiday bazaar made Christmas shopping easy this year and vendors included LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Bountiful Homes, Elsa Johnson, Elda de la Rosa, Fabbri Furs, Hinsdale Furriers, Jennifer Kole Designs, Joelle Nadine, Leslie Hodes, Mary Mary, Pam Bernstein, Shrine and Tails in the City. There was new as well as vintage jewelry collections, magnificent furs, designer clothing, men’s gifts and even something for Fido to put under the tree at this extensive, something-for-everyone shopping extravaganza. The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus’ beautiful voices filled the elegant room with sounds of the season as jolly little bell-clad elves roamed among the tables much to the ladies’ delight. A delicious, seasonal luncheon included roasted butternut squash soup, parmesan crusted Amish chicken and chocolate raspberry crème tarts. As always, there was a philanthropic component to the day as the SC ladies all brought children’s gifts to benefit Clara’s House Shelter. The luncheon raised more than $8000 to benefit the grant program for the Service Club. (To see ALL fab event photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here!)

The Women’s Board of Misericordia presented their annual Heart of Mercy Ball this year at the Fairmont Hotel. More than 650 people attended this black tie ball which raised more than $600K. Honorees this year included the Reverend Monsignor Michael Boland who received the Sister Rosemary Connelly Service Medallion and the Brian and Sue Shannon family who received the Heart of Mercy Award. The evening also included a silent and live auction (what event nowadays doesn’t?) and the music of the Ken Arlen Orchestra. All of the money raised supports Misericordia Home, Heart of Mercy, in Chicago which serves more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities from diverse racial, religious and socio-economic backgrounds on its 31-acre campus. By serving society’s most vulnerable citizens, Misericordia also serves the families who want the best for them, yet cannot provide it at home. (You might recognize Sister Rosemary as the feisty nun who jokingly stood up to Mayor Emanuel recently over beginning to charge charities for water.) For more info on this charity and upcoming events, please click here! (For more event photos by Robert Kusel, please click here.)

Did everyone see Chicago’s own Chef Art Smith in the fabulous Thanksgiving special hosted by Lady Gaga??!! Well, I know for sure that 5.4 million of you watched: It was the highest-rated show in this time slot! Huge congrats to Chef Art and Lady Gaga! Chef Art also attended a party at Barney’s in NY with his better half, partner Jesus Salguiero, to celebrate the windows that Gaga has designed for the store for the holidays…what a dynamic duo! I can’t wait to see what they “cook up” next!

The Chicago Photographer’s Party was held recently at one of my favorite restaurants, Tocco (located at 1266 N. Milwaukee) in honor of our wonderful local photographers! If it wasn’t for them, how in the world would we keep track of all of the social comings and goings? So, it was a fitting night of celebration that attracted around 200 party loving guests. There was a fantastic fashion display that featured gowns by Anna Fong, Borris Powell, Elda de la Rosa and Karol Barrero. Models Nicole Townsend, Bebe Georgieva, Cassandra and Freida Medina dressed up the room while the wonderful sounds of the Steve Biossat Trio filled the air. Handsome Tocco owner Bruno Abate was hard at work making sure everyone got a chance to sample his delicious Italian cuisine. (The pizzas are my favorite!) The event was planned by the Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago committee that included Steve Starr, Sandra Smith-Doghmi and Javier Enriquez. The party was so glam and so much fun that no one wanted to leave! (Additional photos by Helena Rafeyan and Steve Starr…to view ALL of the event pics, please click here!

Speaking of parties, I must say the latest issue (December) of Michigan Avenue Magazine has to be my very favorite! I wonder why!? I loved the party scene and those fabulous clothes and I am so grateful to Susanna Negovan for including me!! Photographer to the stars Steve Starr looked dapper as well in his two-page spread. I thought this was their best fashion feature to date. The jewelry, accessories and wardrobe were all so well planned and the models were just so darn cute/handsome! This magazine just keeps getting better and better and I couldn’t be happier for them! Congrats Mich Mag and thanks so very much for including me! 🙂

When I first met my neighbor down the street, Steve Weiss, I had no idea what he did for a living. And quite frankly, I still don’t know for sure other than the fact that he is an owner of Zacuto, which is one of the largest high-quality, originally-designed motion picture camera accessory manufacturing companies around. And Zacuto Films produces its own original web series with six Emmy nods and two wins. As I question him more, I find out that everyone – and I do mean EVERYONE – uses a piece of his equipment…who knew?!

Please mark Wednesday, December 14th on your calendar for the VIVA LA VIDA MASQUERADE PARTY when two cites – Chicago and New York – come together for one night to broadcast the latest fashion trends and happenings LIVE! New York hosts will be the editor and publisher of Gotham magazine, Samantha Yanks and Debra Halpert, while I will be a Chicago host along with "Windy City Live" style guru Eric Himel! This evening, sponsored by the Aparecio Foundation, will also launch Hasana’s e-commerce site at The Mid Nightclub located at 306 N. Halsted beginning at 6 p.m. Live entertainment provided by Sadie Woods and Megan Taylor! Guest bloggers Nicki Brashear and Katie Shuppler will be on hand, too, to keep fans updated. Please come to the party and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-the-minute #HVLV updates! Be there! 🙂

Huge congrats to Illinois Center for Broadcasting for their unique way to give thanks to the military this holiday season! On 12/8 and 12/15, at all of their campuses around the country, they will be offering a free Digital Care Package for families, friends and supporters of military personnel that can be shared with loved ones through email and online social networks, no matter where they are. For more details, please click here!

Is there a more beautiful city in the country than Chicago during the holidays? Granted, New York has a lot to offer – I love those Bergdorf Goodman windows and the Barney’s windows, this year decorated by Lady Gaga and who could resist that huge snowflake hanging in the center of Fifth Avenue? – but we have that and more (kinda)! I’ve never seen a prettier display than our own Lincoln Park Zoo’s “ZooLights” display. I can just imagine the animals having holiday parties after all of the humans have gone. And who can resist the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza? This delightful spot is one of my favorites with its variety of crafts, gifts, entertainment, German food, drinks and more! Macy’s windows are always a must-see attraction and the Joffrey Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition. And finally, I don’t believe there is a prettier spot than right here in my own backyard – the Old Town Triangle. Across the street from us is the most popular house on any Chicago tour, a darling fisherman’s cottage owned by Steppenwolf’s lucky David Hawkanson. I love this city that just keeps getting better and better and better…can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings! Have a happy holiday! (To enjoy more photos from Christmas’ past in Chicago, please click here!)

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I love my hairdresser Charles Ifergan and not just because he’s super cute, skilled and fun to be around but because he’s also good at giving back! The Charles Ifergan Salon at 106 E. Oak St., along with Furla, is co-hosting a children’s toy drive at the salon and store: Each client who donates will receive 20-percent off any hair care products and 20-percent off merchandise at Furla! LOVE this!