Tag Archives: Chicago Bears

May 22, 2012 · 10:02 am

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

…PLUS ART INSTITUTE’S DOUBLE BLOW-OUTS, STEPPENWOLF’S STAR-STUDDED NIGHT, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S PENTHOUSE PARTY, THE LOCAL TOURIST CELEBRATES 10, HUBBARD STREET DANCE'S SPOTLIGHT BALL, BRIAN ATWOOD, SMITHE FAMILY’S “RUN HOME CHICAGO” PARTY, WOMEN’S BOARD OF FIELD MUSEUM’S “SPARKLY” LUNCHEON AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a night filled with celebration, hope and inspiration for the second Annual Ladybug Bash held this year at Grossinger City Autoplex on Thursday night. Host and organization founder Dina Manzo greeted each and every guest on the red carpet in a stunning champagne colored gown by Rivini. Dina, as I’m sure you know is filming the second season of HGTV’s “Dina’s Party,” which is about Dina’s many event planning adventures. She is also a former star of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” This one-woman powerhouse founded Project Ladybug in New Jersey in 2007 with the wish to bring financial and emotional support to children undergoing rigorous cancer treatments and their families. Atia Lutarewych, the four-year-old pint-size namesake for Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, was there on this night, in full remission after battling cancer for two years beginning at the tender age of 17 months. WGN Morning News’ “Around Town” reporter Ana Belaval was one of the hosts for the evening that also included Alpana Singh, host of WTTW’s “Check, Please!” (BTW, Alpana will become a restaurateur this summer when she and her partners open The Boarding House restaurant at 720 N. Wells!) This year’s Ladybug Bash, themed “Stars & Cars,” also included Ms. Illinois 2012 Amber Podell, Miss Illinois 2012 Nancy To and Mrs. Illinois 2012 Jennifer Cruz. There were a lot of crowns and gowns in that room! The food stations were never ending with something delectable on all three floors from restaurants that included Bistronomic, Orso’s Italian, Sunda, Uncle Julio’s, Wildfire, Market, D’s Sweet Berries, D’Casa, Burger Bar, Currents on the River, Hubbard Inn, Le Chocolat, Paradise Cantina and Punky’s Pizza & Pasta. There were also dazzling vintage GM cars illustrating automobile luxury over the years that included a 1937, 1958 and 1973 Cadillac plus a 1927 Buick. Entertainer Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino performed “A Tribute to Dean Martin” that included funny impersonations of Jerry Lewis, too. All throughout the venue, Ford models showcased chic designs from AKIRA, one of Chicago’s premier fashion houses, while guests perused the extensive silent auction. Dan Colantone of Tone Productions DJ Services donated his musical talents as well as the Mike Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band and singer/songwriter Erica Iozzo. Celebrity impersonator Debborah Hopkins was stunning as Marilyn Monroe! Grace Melon, a young cancer survivor, gave a riveting account of her long and arduous journey with a Broadway-worthy performance following. Grace’s first round with leukemia began at the age of two. She was treated for two and a half years and was cancer free from age 5-12 when the cancer returned in July of 2008. She is now cancer-free, a freshman in high school and a professional actress, having signed on with Gray Talent Group at age 13. She has also initiated her own project to help kids with cancer. It was a wonderful night of fun for a great cause with proceeds benefitting the mission and ongoing programs offered by Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital. (To view more pics, please click here!)

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

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

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

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

The 21st annual Facing History and Ourselves benefit dinner welcomed more than 750 civic and corporate leaders to the Hyatt Regency on May 1st. The event raised over $1.95 million in support of Facing History’s wide-reaching educational programs and marked the Chicago kick-off of the organization’s nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibition, Choosing to Participate, which will be mounted at the Harold Washington Public Library, located at 400 S. State, from August 27th to November 11th. Co-chairs for the initiative are AON President/CEO Greg Case and Loop Capital Markets CEO Jim Reynolds. Guests enjoyed an evening that began with a reception and cocktails, followed by dinner and a presentation by acclaimed novelist Erik Larson, author of “The Devil in the White City” and “In the Garden of Beasts.” The speaking program also included remarks from Facing History Director Bonnie Oberman and Loop Capital Markets Pres/co-founder, Albert R. Grace, Jr. Facing History and Ourselves, which was originally founded in Boston by Margot Stern Strom, established a Chicago office 21 years ago. Co-founded by Judy Wise and Karen Harrison, the Chicago office has trained more than 3,000 local educators through its programs since 1990. These teachers annually reach more than 300,000 middle and high school students in over 175 public, religious and independent Chicago schools. (For more info, visit www.facinghistory.org and for additional pics, click here.)

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago hosted its annual Spotlight Ball at the Hilton Chicago with more than 450 of Chicago’s movers and shakers, including the Mayor who served as Honorary Chair. Co-chaired by Craig Duchossois (CEO of the Duchossois Group) and Don Thompson (President/COO of McDonald’s Corp.), this event raised more than $700,000 to support the dance company’s education, community and artistic programming. Emceed by longtime supporter, ABC 7’s Ron Magers, the evening kicked off with cocktails and a silent auction that featured a seven-night trip to Brazil. Guests were also treated to a unique performance choreographed by some of Hubbard Street’s most prominent talents: resident choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo and Taryn Kaschock Russell, director of Hubbard Street 2, followed by a three-course dinner prepared by Hilton Executive Chef Mario Garcia. Don Thompson presented the Spotlight Award to Jeanne and John Rowe, who delivered a powerful speech about the importance of supporting the arts. Target Group VP Mary Farrell-Tarbox accepted a Spotlight Award for her company’s commitment to improving access to the arts. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, under artistic director Glenn Edgerton, celebrates 34 years as one of the most original forces in contemporary dance. (Photos by Bob Carl.)

Walter Smithe, son Tim Smithe and family recently hosted a Kick-Off party at their Lincoln Park showroom to launch the 30-day countdown for “Run Home Chicago,” a race to end homelessness, that will take place in Soldier Field on June 10th beginning at 7 a.m. Tim’s fabulous wife, Mary Astor Smithe, was on hand to offer her delicious Chicago Butter Cookies (with a chocolate fountain, no less!) to guests who included Chicago Bears Earl Bennett and Israel Idonije, Eda Davidman, Police Supt. Garry McCarthy and his daughter Kyla, Quentin Primo III, Ravi Baichwal and Susanna Negovan, among many others. Everyone enjoyed lively music, food and drinks donated from local Chicago businesses including Tavern on Rush, Swirlz Cupcakes, Tito’s Vodka, Four Roses Bourbon and PRP Wine. “Run Home Chicago” is hosted by the Primo Center for Women and Children, a shelter on Chicago’s West Side that provides transitional housing, counseling and support services to homeless women and their children. The event will honor the Mayor and his wife, Amy Rule, as chairs of the race. Participating in the race will help to raise funds for facilities such as PCWC that provide essential social services to Chicagoans hardest hit by homelessness. (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click here and for more info, please visit www.runhomechicago.com.)

Steppenwolf Theatre Company hosted more than 500 guests for its annual star-studded gala on May 5th. The event kicked off with a showcase of scenes inspired by the world-premiere production of “The March,” based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow, adapted for the stage and directed by ensemble member Frank Galati, and featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Ian Barford, Martha Lavey, Mariann Mayberry, James Vincent Meredith and Alan Wilder. Following the performance, the party moved two blocks south to Blackhawk on Halsted, a 15,000-square-foot space featuring theatrically-inspired décor by Event Creative and a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline. There, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering and the awesome, annual live auction led by auctioneer Michael Davis of Hart Davis Wine Co. It featured once-in-a-lifetime adventures with Steppenwolf ensemble members and artists and included an on-set visit to the hit Starz original drama “Boss,” filmed here in Chicago starring Kelsey Grammer, plus autographed scripts as a memento of the day; exclusive dinner with comedian Jeff Garlin (star and executive producer of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) with dinner prepared by five-time James Beard Award nominee Chef Michael Kornick; four tickets to the NY opening of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (the 50th anniversary of the original Broadway production premiere) plus hotel and airfare; and an exclusive evening on the Steppenwolf stage with co-founder Gary Sinise and ensemble member Moira Harris with a gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Trotter! The evening wrapped up with dancing and live music by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gala 2012 co-chairs included Richard and Margery Feitler, Rita and Scott George and Carol and John Walter while Liz and Eric Lefkofsky were the Live Auction Sponsors. This year's Gala raised more than $1 million! (To view ALL event pics by Joan Hackett and Kyle Flubacker, please click here!)

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

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

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

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

This has been the busiest month I’ve ever seen on my calendar! From May 4th to May 12th alone, there were more than 15 gala events!! As you can see, I tried to bring the best pics and info from MOST of them to you this week! I hope you enjoyed it and I hope your gardens are flourishing! Our wisteria has never looked lovelier! Happy Spring!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Under the “It’s About Time!” category, proud mom Dusty (Yolanda) Stemer reports that her super handsome, hunky shoe designer son, Brian Atwood, will have his first stand-alone store coming to New York’s Madison Avenue in the fall. I can only imagine the lines! Congrats Brian – we all love you and hope Chicago is NEXT!!! 🙂

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

Tagged as 50/50, A.V. Shinde, Abby Zanarini, Akira, Alan Wilder, Alana Arenas, Albert R. Grade Jr., Alejandro Cerrudo, Allison Rosati, Alpana Singh, Amber Podell, Amy Rule, Ana Belaval, Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino, Anna Fong, Anthony Ledru, Antonio Romanucci, Aon, Art Institute of Chicago Women’s Board, Atia Lutarewych, Azeeza, Bill Heffernan, Bistronomic, Blackhawk, Bob Carl, Bon Appetit, Bonnie Oberman, Borris Powell, Boss, Brian Atwood, British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now!, Burger Bar, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol Walter, Caryn Harris, Charlene “Charlie” McCord, Check Please!, Chef Charlie Trotter, Chef Mario Garcia, Chef Michael Kornick, Chicago Bears, Chicago Butter Cookies, Chicago Dramatists, Chicago International Film Festival, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Chicago Sinfonietta, Chicago Sun-Times, Choosing to Participate, CineYouth Festival, Craig Duchossois, Crash the Gala, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Currents on the River, Cynthia Ross Polayes, Dan Colantone, Dan Rest, Dante Alighieri, Dante Award, D’Casa, D’s Sweet Berries, Dean Martin, Debborah Hopkins, Dianna Hall, Dick Kay, Dina Manzo, Dina’s Party, Dominic DiFrisco, Dominic Mancuso, Don Thompson, Duchossois Group, Dusty Stemer, E.L. Doctorow, Earl Bennett, Eda Davidman, Edward Albee, elda de la rosa, Emily Barr, Eric Lefkofsky, Erica Iozzo, Erik Larson, Event Creative, Facing History and Ourselves, Food for Thought Catering, FORD Models, Four Roses Bourbon, Frank Galati, Frank Mathie, Gale Gottlieb, Garry McCarthy, Gary Sinise, Gary Sinise and the Lt Dan Band, Gayle Anthony, George Caputo, Glamorama, Glenn Edgerton, Grace Melon, Greenhouse Loft, Greg Case, Grossinger City Autoplex, Guggenheim Partners, Harry Winston, Hart Davis Wine Co., HGTV, Hubbard Inn, Hubbard Street 2, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Hugh Hill, Ian Barford, Ikram, In the Garden of Beasts, Irv Kupcinet, Israel Idonije, James Beard Award, James Vincent Meredith, Janet Davies, Jeanne Rowe, Jeff Garlin, Jennifer Cruz, Jerry Lewis, Jesse De La Pena, Jim Reynolds, Jo Ann Serpico, Joan Esposito, Joan Hackett, Joe Ahern, John Alexander, John Fornengo, John Madigan, John Rowe, John Walter, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Jonathan Levine, Judy Wise, Karen Harrison, Kelsey Grammer, Kevin Bell, Kimbra Walter, Kyla McCarthy, Kyle Flubacker, LA Dodgers, Ladybug Bash, Larry Wert, Le Chocolat, Liz Lefkofsky, Liz Sharp, Loop Capital Markets, M2F, Margery Feitler, Margot Stern Strom, Maria Green, Mariann Mayberry, Mark Giangreco, Mark Walter, Market, Martha Lavey, Mary Astor Smithe, Mary Farrell-Tarbox, McDonald’s Corp., Merri Dee, Michael Davis, Michaela Parrillo, Mila Samokhina, Mile Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band, Modern Wing, Moira Harris, Muntu Dance, Nancy To, National Museum of Mexican Art, Orso’s Italian, Paradise Cantina, Passport to Chicago, Paul and Dan, Primo Center for Women and Children, PRP Wine, Public House, Punky’s Pizza & Pasta, Quentin Primo III, Rahm Emanuel, Ravi Baichwal, Ray Ray Sunshine, Red Moon Theater, Reema Keswani, Richard Feitler, Rita George, Rivini, Ron Magers, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Rosemary Fanti, Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective, Run Home Chicago, Sandra Rand, Scott George, Spotlight Ball, Stars & Cars, Stella Foster, Stephanie Field Harris, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Steve Starr, Sunda, Susan Clark McBride, Susanna Negovan, Suzanne Meder, Swirlz Cupcakes, Target Group, Taryn Kaschok Russel, Tavern on Rush, Terzo Piano, The Boarding House, The Devil in the White City, The Great Gatsby, The Local Tourist, The March, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, The Wackness, Theresa Carter, Tim Smithe, Tito’s Vodka, Tom Kehoe, Tone Productions DJ Services, Uncle Julio’s, University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital, UnMasked Ball, Vince Gerasole, Walter E. Smithe Furniture, Walter Jacobson, Walter Smithe, Wendy Krimins, WGN Morning News, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolfe?, Wildfire, Women in Science Fellowship, Women;s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo, Women’s Board of the Field Museum, WTTW, Zoo Ball

April 27, 2012 · 10:57 am

STEPPENWOLF’S AUXILIARY COUNCIL HOSTS RED OR WHITE BALL

…PLUS IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SHOES FOR SERVICE CLUB AND SAKS, NATIONAL PUBLIC HOUSING MUSEUM BENEFIT CELEBRATES TOP PHILANTHROPISTS, DEFENDING HEF ON NATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO, WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND MORE!

The Steppenwolf Theater’s Red or White Ball began as a simple wine tasting party – hence the name “Red or White” – in 2002 but it has now mushroomed into a must-attend event for the young professional crowd. The party at Architectural Artifacts on April 13th brought out more than 500 guests for a night of music, dancing, cocktails, food tastings and a silent auction. Ensemble members and honorary co-chairs Lily Mojekwu (star of Steppenwolf’s “fml: how Carson McCullers saved my life”) and Robert Schleifer (“The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” star) mingled with guests at the VIP reception along with Kathryn Erbe, star of “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” who also served as honorary chair. Steppenwolf Executive Director David Hawkanson welcomed the crowd and introduced co-chairs Kim Davis, Bryce Cooper and Dina Searle. The VIP portion of the evening included gift bags, special access to Steppenwolf artists, delectable tasting stations from Paris Club, ZED451, Fred’s, The Pump Room and drink stations from Barrelhouse Flat and Goose Island Brewery. The party continued in the main room where guests enjoyed signature red or white cocktails with more food samplings from Limelight Catering and a dessert station courtesy of Magnolia Bakery. A DJ kept the crowd moving and the photo booth provided memories from the evening. The silent auction was loaded with nearly 70 exciting packages that included a private party on a rooftop garden, a one-night stay and a round of golf at the Grand Geneva Resort plus the highlight, round-trip airfare to NY for a Broadway show plus a taping of “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” that sold for $4,700! Other notable guests in attendance included Steppenwolf ensemble member Alana Arenas, Fran Guinan, Jon Michael Hill, Mariann Mayberry and James Vincent Meredith, Carrie Coon (currently appearing at Steppenwolf in “The March”), host Finnigan of KISS-FM, ABC-7 reporter Eric Horng, Ben Pritzker, Jason More, Stephanie and Edward Linn, Stephen Cole, Chef Jean Tippenhauer, Chef Tim Graham, Chef Moosah Reaume, Kady Yon and Chef Kate Milashus. Partygoers grabbed late night snacks from the Wagyu Wagon before moving on to the after-party at Lady Gregory’s. The party raised $80,000 benefitting Steppenwolf for Young Adults, the theater’s nationally recognized arts education program which annually impacts more than 15,000 students, teachers and families. The Red or White Ball is the primary fundraiser presented by Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council, a community of more than 150 dynamic young professionals. Since its inception in 2000, the AC has raised more than $1 million in contributions. (Photos by Kyle Flubaker and Manocam Photography…to view ALL event pics, 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%3D39562%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 Service Club of Chicago, with hosts Laurie Davis, Susanna Negovan and Maria Smithburg, presented the U.S. premiere of “God Save My Shoes,” a documentary about women and their relationships with their shoes starring Kelly Rowland, Fergie, Dita Von Teese, Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik, among others. Producer Thierry Dahler and director Julie Benasra flew in from Paris a night early to attend a dinner and Q & A with 30 fashionable ladies at Maria Smithburg’s lovely Streeterville apartment. This event was a pre-party for the screening that occurred the following night at the AMC Theatre. The film had only been shown in Paris and Dubai before this first U.S. screening. The Service Club of Chicago’s next big event will be the Mad Hatter Luncheon chaired by member Sherry Lee Holson at the Chicago Club on Thursday, May 10th. This event will include guest speakers and a hat contest; tickets are $100. The SC, one of Chicago’s oldest charitable organizations founded in 1890, donates 100 percent of money raised to its grant program which distributes funds to numerous non-profits around town.

Saks Fifth Avenue hosted one of the best in-store events I’ve attended in a long, long time. Watch312.com was the media sponsor for the evening and I emceed the “Well-Heeled Walk-Off” contest with “DishIT” host Amanda Puck serving as a judge along with Saks’ director of marketing Julie Selakovich and Francesca Moceri from Chicago Children’s Charities. (CCC received a portion of the proceeds from the evening as the event beneficiary.) The contestants tested out all of their best moves on the runway from dancing to model poses inspired by Zoolander. It was a riot and everyone had tons of fun all competing to win a pair of coveted Jimmy Choo shoes. In the end, two dynamic women scored perfect 10s from each judge to compete in the final walk-off. Everyone in the third floor 10022-SHOE Salon had chosen their favorite pairs that included sky-high heels to sequined ballet flats but only two ladies strutted their way to perfect scores. Julia Douglas and Colleen Richardson worked the crowd into a frenzy trying to win their chosen shoes…and when I asked for a show of applause from the crowd to see who they thought was the winner, it seemed to be a tie. It was all up to the judges now as they huddled together for the final decision. And THEY BOTH WON!!! It was a wise decision that brought a huge cheer from the Choo-loving crowd. Congrats to Julie Selakovich on a wonderful event for a great cause! Check out the fun on Watch312.com below and view more fun fotos here! 🙂

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I attended a lovely event at Salvage One recently benefitting the National Public Housing Museum. The keynote speaker was Steve Pemberton, chief diversity officer and divisional vice president for Walgreens and author of “A Chance in the World: An Orphan Boy, a Mysterious Past, and How He Found a Place Called Home.” I highly recommend this book – it’s an inspirational story that crosses generations and cultures but specifically speaks to those who have had the odds stacked against them. (Steve is a fascinating man who spent most of his young life in foster care.) Three renowned philanthropists were also honored including Ford Foundation president Luis Ubinas, president of the Ford Foundation, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter and founder of Universal Companies Kenny Gamble and MacArthur Foundation VP Julia Stasch. Chaired by Greg Cameron, Reuben Cannon, Pam Cullerton and Regina Taylor, the event was “An Afternoon of Good Times” that raised money for the National Public Housing Museum coming to the site of the Jane Addams Homes on W. Taylor Street in June. The Museum is dedicated to interpreting the American experience in public housing from across the nation. (For more info, please visit www.nphm.org.) I loved Greg Cameron’s closing remarks: He quoted Winston Churchill, saying, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Amen to that, Greg! (Photos courtesy of Brian Powers of B. Powers Photography.)

Thanks to “Windy City Live” for having me back to discuss upcoming events! Check out the fun surprise at the end, too! (See video below.) Also, special thanks to WBEZ/National Public Radio for my recent interview with Steve Edwards, host of “The Afternoon Shift.” I shared the airwaves with Steven Watts, professor of history at the University of Missouri and author of “Mr. Playboy, Hugh Hefner and the American Dream” and DePaul professor Carolyn Bronstein, author of “Battling Pornography: The American Feminist Anti-Pornography Movement, 1976-1986.” It was a fun time talking about my Playboy days and defending Hef from the feminists…which seems to be an ongoing battle that just won’t go away…listen here and see the Windy City Live segment below!

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And another thank you shout-out to Hillary Sawchuk and Kelly Kane of “Drink With Chicago” for another fun interview at RL! We discussed everything from, “Did I date Hef?” to “What’s the best way to meet the right guy?” Thanks to photographer Natalie Probst for the wonderful photos, too! Check out the article here!

That’s all for this week but I hope to see you here same time next week! In the meantime, enjoy this popular video about just how far a little creativity can go! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Are you following the Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Childrens’ Countdown? The world’s largest House will be opening on June 26th and, so far, has had lots of familiar faces participate in the countdown including Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Jonathan Toews and Brent Seabrook of the Blackhawks, actor Colin Egglesfield, former Chicago Bear Greg Olsen, pro golfer Chip Beck, former “Bachelorette” Jen Schefft, Lisa Dent and Ramblin’ Ray on US99.5 mornings, ABC-7 sports’ Mark Giangreco, Stefen Holt and Alicia Roman from NBC5 and Chef Art Smith, Jesus Salguiero and Linda O’Keefe of Common Threads! Check here to see who is represented today! Can’t wait to celebrate the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House!

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Tagged as 1976-1986, A Chance in the World: An Orphan Boy, a Mysterious Past, Alana Arenas, Alicia Roman, Amanda Puck, AMC Theatre, and How He Found a Place Called Home, Architectural Artifacts, B. Powers Photography, Barrelhouse Flat, Battling Pornography: The American Feminist Anti-Pornography Movement, Ben Pritzker, Brent Seabrook, Brian Powers, Bryce Cooper, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carolyn Bronstein, Carrie Coon, Chef Art Smith, Chef Jean Tippenhauer, Chef Kate Milashus, Chef Moosah Reaume, Chef Tim Graham, Chicago Bears, Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Children’s Charities, Chip Beck, Christian Louboutin, Colin Egglesfield, Colleen Richardson, Common Threads, David Hawkanson, DePaul University, Diana Searle, DishIT, Dita Von Teese, Drink With Chicago, Edward Linn, Eric Horng, Fergie, Finnigan, fml: how Carson McCullers saved my life, Ford Foundation, Fran Guinan, Francesca Moceri, Fred’s, God Save My Shoes, Goose Island Brewery, Grammy Award, Grand Geneva Resort, Greg Cameron, Greg Olsen, Hillary Sawchuk, Hugh Hefner, Hugh Hefner and the American Dream, James Vincent Meredith, Jane Addams House, Jason More, Jen Schefft, Jesus Salguiero, Jimmu Choo. Julia Douglas, Jon Michael Hill, Jonathan Toews, Julie Benasra, Julie Selakovich, Kady Yon, Kathryn Erbe, Kelly Kane, Kelly Rowland, Kenny Gamble, Kim Davis, Kyle Flubaker, Lady Gregory’s, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Laurie Davis, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Lily Mojekwu, Limelight Catering, Linda O’Keefe, Lisa Dent, Luis Ubinas, MacArthur Foundation Julia Stasch, Mad Hatter Luncheon, Magnolia Bakery, Manocam Photography, Manolo Blahnik, Maria Smithburg, Mariann Mayberry, Mark Giangreco, Mr. Playboy, Natalie Probst, National Public Housing Museum, National Public Radio, Pam Cullerton, Paris Club, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Playboy, Ramblin’ Ray, Red or White Ball, Regina Taylor, Reuben Cannon, Robert Schleifer, Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Childrens’ Countdown, Saks Fifth Avenue, Salvage One, Service Club of Chicago, Sherry Lee Holson, Stefen Holt, Stephanie Linn, Stephen Cole, Steppenwolf Auxiliary Council, Steppenwolf for Young Adults, Steppenwolf Theater, Steve Edwards, Steve Pemberton, Steven Watts, Susanna Negovan, The Afternoon Shift, The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, The March, The Pump Room, Thierry Dahler, Universal Companies, University of Missouri, Wagyu Wagon, Walgreen’s, Watch312.com, WBEZ, Well-Heeled Walk-Off, Windy City Live, Winston Churchill, Zed451, Zoolander

March 23, 2012 · 2:23 pm

DESIGNER BORRIS POWELL WOWS THE CHICAGO FASHION CROWD!

…PLUS BEAR NECESSITIES GALA, CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION’S “STREET STYLE,” TCW MAG’S SINGLES SOIREE, UPCOMING EVENTS, PALMER HOUSE COUP, THREE NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND MORE!

The Without a Shadow of a Doubt Fashion Show presented by local designer Borris Powell set a very high standard for Chicago fashion shows recently at the River East Art Center. Opening with chic fashions from Lincoln Park's newest boutique, STRUT, owner Niala Conte sent models down the runway in wearable and accessible outfits that made you want to rush to her store at 2549 N. Clark St. And indeed, guests could shop in her pop-up store after the show with a 20-percent discount thrown in for good measure. Being the ultimate showman, you never know what to expect from Mr. Borris Powell but when the red Ferrari powerfully hummed into the middle of the event driven by two gorgeous models, both wearing red, the crowd just lost it! It sat there front and center throughout Borris' faultless fashion show. For the first time, Borris presented his menswear line to wild applause. Special guest Rashied Davis of the Chicago Bears was wearing the very first men's suit that Borris had created as he told the crowd about his wonderful foundation that he and his wife Dianna founded, The Rashied Davis Charities, which teaches students how to overcome obstacles. And then the show! I was thrilled and honored to co-host with NBC's Marcus Riley, who made quite a fashion statement himself: He was wearing all local designers and his girlfriend, Nicole Townsend, was beaming with pride. Factor models glided down the runway in fashions that made me swoon. Borris' latest handbag, which was premiered on this night, can be used by both sexes and is the perfect shade of chocolate that will match every outfit for fall. His use of pops of color with more classic looks was the perfect mix for now. I loved the full length leather gown and his extra-wide belts, which were shown with lots of the ensembles. This new wide shape was modern and new and I want one in every color! The makeup (by Brenda Arelano, among others) was simple and clean with a bright red mouth. Hair by Nevena Zee from the Custom Hair Lounge & Spa also echoed the makeup with classic shapes and men's looks inspired by Italian Vogue – slicked back and sleek. The menswear collection had something for every type of
male from the buttoned-up businessman to the guy channeling his inner Marc Jacobs. Quenten Schumacher already has his eye on the copper colored statement suit…so heads-up here, Borris! And when the man himself came out for his final bows with that winning smile that we all love, the crowd was sitting in the palm of his hand. As he danced along behind the Ferrari as it hummed out of the ballroom, we knew we had all just witnessed fashion magic! Long may you reign, Borris!!! (To see ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins and Mitchell Canoff, please click here and check out my Watch312.com coverage below!)

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Bear hugs were in abundance at the Bear Necessities 19th annual Bear Tie Ball’s Rhythms for a Reason event on Saturday, March 10th. Every year, this event gets bigger and bigger and this year, it had to be moved to the grand UIC Forum to accommodate the 750 guests in attendance. Co-chaired by Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto, this party was filled with love for Bear Necessities and its inspiration, Barrett “Bear” Krupa. Bear lost his battle with cancer in 1993 but his spirit lives on through this amazing organization that bears his name. This year’s Bear Hug Ambassador, Lawson Frank, spoke to a rapt audience of his journey with cancer. In 2009, he was diagnosed with a rare form which was highly aggressive and malignant in his left eye. Lawson finished his last cancer treatment in 2011 and is in remission. Bear Necessities came through with a celebratory Bear Hug, sending Lawson and his family to the Chicago Blackhawks’ Hockey Fights Cancer Night. Lawson did the ceremonial puck drop that evening and even got to shoot on net! Today, he is an honor roll student and soccer player who hopes to one day become a surgeon. This special night was hosted by WLS radio host Roe Conn and Valerie Warner of “Windy City Live.” They each donated a special live auction package for the event…with Valerie teasing Roe that her package sold for more money! They were very cute onstage together and made a perfect hosting team. Founder Kathleen Casey gave a moving speech and said, “If Bear were here today, I would smile at the man he became and thank him for the inspiration.” She noted that the organization is the largest pediatric cancer foundation of its kind in the Midwest and also shared that less than 4 percent of federal money has gone towards childhood cancer. The William J. Casey Hope Award, which was created in honor of Kathleen’s dad and Bear’s devoted grandpa, was awarded to the Urso family and the Chicago Blackhawks. Legendary goalie Tony Esposito accepted the award on their behalf saying, “They’re a giving organization led by GIVING people.” Val Warner remarked that she could see Tony’s huge Stanley Cup ring from the stage. (He is a charming man who was dressed impeccably right down to his cufflinks, which were created in the shape of his goalie mask.) Father Paul White, who gave the invocation, remarked, “Tony has made more saves than I ever will.” His humor was priceless and made me want to travel to Harvard, Illinois to hear his inspiring sermons! The sit-down gala dinner included grilled shrimp, goat cheese salad, green beans, roasted garlic potatoes. Dessert and dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra followed. A private after-party was held at Potter’s Lounge at the Palmer House. The event raised more than $700K for Bear Necessities. For more info about this amazing organization, please visit www.bearnecessities.org. (Event photos by Mila Samokhina…view more here!)

The Chicago Fashion Foundation’s 5th annual Future of Chicago Fashion scholarship award benefit was themed “Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities” and was held at the Chicago Cultural Center on March 7th. Ten student designers competed for scholarships in the amount of $5,000, $1,000 and $500. This chic affair included a cocktail reception in Preston Bradley Hall, an extensive silent auction and more than 350 chicly-clad guests. Judging began backstage before the show with Macy's Andrea Schwartz, Project Runway's Peach Carr (who presented her delightful spring collection), Akira's Jon Cotay, 24/7 Chicago's Catie Keogh and moi doing our best to decide who the top scholarship winners should be. The students were instructed to find their inspiration from the street style of Chicago's neighborhoods that included Ukrainian Village, Rogers Park, Chinatown, Beverly, Maxwell Street, Hyde Park and Logan Square. VH1 reality star Corri McFadden was the emcee for the event and Elena Bobysheva, a student at Columbia College, walked away with the first place prize of a $5,000 scholarship. Her winning ensemble featured a black stretch crepe jacket with an open back and a blue-violet pegged skirt, which were inspired by the architecture and cathedrals of Ukrainian Village. Second place winner Michele Castellano from the School of the Art Institute won a $1,000 scholarship with a romantic look inspired by the Columbian Exposition and the rich history of Hyde Park. The design featured a laser-cut top and a skirt lined with photographs of the dome from the Fine Arts Building of the Exposition which required 200 hours to create. Raven Norman from the Illinois Institute of Art won third place and a $500 scholarship with a green silk dress and tinted orange jacket inspired by the Beverly neighborhood. To Raven, the outfit evoked the sophistication, class and old world style of the community. Other participating student/designers included Elizabeth Leukuma, Kara Fenoglietto, Elaine Hoang, Tosha Sherman, Kendel Kennedy, Stacie Randall and Crystale Crubaugh. To see video coverage of this fabulous event on Watch312.com's "Candid Candace Chicago," please see below. Congrats to one and all – Chicago's fashion future is in very good hands indeed! (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

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Today’s Chicago Woman magazine presented its annual top singles party recently at Enclave. This fun-filled event, emceed by WGN’s “Healthy Living” host Jane Monzures, honored 40 of the city’s leading bachelors and bachelorettes. Top Chicago restaurants served a sampling of singles-themed food and included Wow Bao’s Asian cuisine, N9NE Steakhouse’s contemporary fare and Frontier’s farm-to-table American concepts. Late night snacks and desserts were provided by Foiled Cupcakes, Garrett’s Popcorn and Eduardo’s Enoteca. DJ Corey Sanford kept the crowd dancing all to benefit the TCW Foundation, which supports under-funded organizations designed to provide essential programs and services for women and girls. Congrats to Sherren Leigh, Cassandra Gaddo and Rebecca Michuda on another great party! To see all of the fun, check out this video from Watch312.com’s “Candid Candace Chicago!”

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And now for some event updates!

Hats at the Races Spring 2012: Hosted by Loreta Corsetti and guest milliner Laura Whitlock, this event at Loreta Corsetti’s Millinery Atelier (200 E. Delaware Place – Lower Level) will feature an array of the latest hats designed especially for racing events, seasonal luncheons and everyday chic! Saturday and Sunday, March 24 & 25th from noon to 5 p.m. (Please RSVP via loreta@loretacorsetti.com or by calling 312.640.6004.)

Luna Negra’s “CARMEN maquia”: Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano’s Picasso-inspired contemporary take on Bizet’s beloved “Carmen.” This world premiere on March 24th begins at 8 p.m. at the Harris Theater (205 E. Randolph). Tickets are $25-$65; for more information, visit www.lunanegra.org or call 312.334.777.

Art for All Gala: Mayor Rahm Emanuel is honorary chair of this year’s Art for All Gala on Friday, March 30th beginning at 7 p.m. at Venue One (1044 W. Randolph). Tickets begin at $250 and include an art-filled evening of cocktails and dinner plus live entertainment and incredible auction prizes! For tickets and more info, please visit www.urbangateways.org or call 312.445.2749.

Cocktails 4 Causes at the Drake Hotel: This April 4th event will benefit the Chicago Red Dress Party from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Palm Court. Attendees will experience a Neiman Marcus fashion showcase, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and entertainment by the Lisa Rene Band – all for only $5 admission! For reservations (they're required), please click here.

Steppenwolf’s Red or White Ball: Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council hosts Chicago’s philanthropic young professionals at the 2012 Red or White Ball on Friday, April 13th at Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood) beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $135; for more info, please visit www.steppenwolf.org.

The Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon: Chair Sherry Lea Holson will host a luncheon and cocktail reception to view the milliner Raymond Hudd Collection at The Chicago Club (81 E. Van Buren) on Thursday, May 10th. For tickets and more info, please email tina@wellerdental.com.

Now please allow me a moment of pride for my stepson’s recent play, “Tom Jones,” adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer. Charley Jordan will be appearing as Squire Western in this play based on Henry Fielding’s 18th century novel. Gala premiere night will be on Friday, March 23rd with the play beginning at 8 p.m. followed by food, open bar and celebration. Running from March 20th to April 29th, "Tom Jones" will be performed at the Josephinum Academy, located at 1500 N. Bell St. in Wicker Park. For tickets and more info, please click here.

And last but not least, big congratulations to the Palmer House Hilton on their amazing coup hosting President Obama’s recent press luncheon. The event included a panel discussion about working in the White House with Mayor Emanuel, Bill Daley and David Axelrod. Darling Director of Catering David Brandt said “It was very interesting and fun to listen to them speak and joke with one another.”

Well, that’s the lowdown on this week’s highlights! I hope you’re enjoying our beautiful weather and I hope to see you next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Anyone who knows Nicole Jacob Delahanty, the fantastic makeup artist and brow expert at the Paul Rehder Salon at 939 N. Rush St., will be thrilled to see this pic of her new baby, Dempsey Sullivan Delahanty! Welcome to the world, Dempsey!!! Love you, Nicole!

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Tagged as 24/7 Chicago, Akira, Al Sofia Orchestra, Andrea Schwartz, Art for All Gala, Barrett “Bear” Krupa, Bear Necesities, Bear Tie Ball, Bill Daley, Bizet, Borris Powell, Brenda Arelano, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candid Candace Chicago, Carmen, Carmen Maquia, Cassandra Gaddo, Catie Keogh, Charley Jordan Squire Western, Chicago Bears, Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Club, Chicago Cultural center, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Columbia College, Corri McFadden, Crystale Crubaugh, Custom Hair Lounge & Spa, David Axelrod, David Brandt, David Hammond, Dempsey Sullivan Delahanty, Dianna Davis, DJ Corey Sanford, Eduardo’s Enoteca, Elaine Hoang, Elena Bobysheva, Elizabeth Leukuma, Enclave, Factor models, Father Paul White, Foiled Cupcakes, Frontier, Future of Chicago Fashion, Garret’s Popcorn, Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Hats at the Races Spring 2012, Healthy Living, Henry Fielding, Hockey Fights Cancer Night, Illinois Institute of Art, Italian Vogue, Jane Monzures, Jon Cotay, Josephinum Academy, Kara Fenoglietto, Kathleen Casey, Kendel Kennedy, Laura Whitlock, Lawson Frank, Loreta Corsetti, Luna Negra, Macy's, Mad Hatter Luncheon, Maggie Speer, Marc Jacobs, Marcus Riley, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Michele Castellano, Mila Samokhina, Mitchell Canoff, N9NE Steakhouse, NBC, Nevena Zee, Niala Conte, Nicole Jacob Delahanty, Nicole Townsend, Nina Mariano, Palmer House Hotel, Paul Rehder Salon, Peach Carr, Picasso, Potter’s Lounge, President Barack Obama, Preston Bradley Hall, Project Runway, Quenten Schumacher, Rashied Davis, Raven Norman, Raymond Hatts Collection, Rebecca Michuda, Red or White Ball, Rhythms for a Reason, River East Art Center, Roe Conn, School of the Art Institute, Service Club of Chicago, Sherren Leigh, Sherry Lea Holson, Stacie Randall, Steppenwolf Theatre, Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council, Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities, STRUT, TCW, TCW Foundation, The Rashied Davis Charities, Today’s Chicago Woman, Tom Jones, Tony Esposito, Tosha Sherman, Tracy Scurto, UIC Forum, Urso family, Valerie Warner, Watch312.com, WGN, William J. Casey Hope Award, Windy City Live, Without a Shadow of a Doubt, Wow Bao

March 11, 2012 · 5:23 pm

TICKLED PINK TO SUPPORT Y-ME!

…PLUS WINDY CITY WEST’S CELEB-FILLED PARTY, CENTER ON HALSTED’S NIGHT OF GLAMOUR, MY FAVORITE ROYAL (AFTER K-MIDD), STEVE STARR IN HOLLYWOOD, UPCOMING EVENTS, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND MORE!

The River East Art Center was the perfect venue for this much loved event that grows by leaps and bounds year after year! This party with a purpose benefitted the Y-Me Breast Cancer Organization and brought out more than 900 supporters for the seventh annual Tickled Pink charity bash on February 24th. Hosted by the newly formed Y-Me Auxiliary Board, this event brought together the young and young-at-heart for a roof raising party that broke attendance records and raised more than $50,000. Guests sipped on delicious cocktails including the famous Tickled Pink-tini and dined on hors d’oeuvres from Paramount Events, Purple Pig, Heaven on Seven, Terzo Piano, IPO, Bon Appetit, Phoebe’s Desserts, Rivers Casino and Homerun Inn Pizza along with sushi from Macku. Partygoers had the opportunity to schmooze with Chicago celebs and local media who served as guest bartenders and helped fundraise at the event by selling pink boas, beads and raffle tickets. The dance floor was the place to be, if you could find a spot! The Hat Guys encouraged guests to sing and dance along to their inspired New Orleans sounds while Fig Media’s DJ Sarumi kept the crowd dancing into the wee hours with his hot club mixes. Local celebrity friends included: Dina Bair, Randi Belisomo, Erin McElroy, Frank Holland, Jae Miller (WGN-TV); Susan Carlson, Dana Kozlov, Mike Puccinelli, Susanna Song and Derrick Young (WBBM-TV); Stefan Holt, Lauren Jiggetts (TCW Mag’s latest covergirl!), Natalie Martinez, Alex Perez, Anthony Ponce, Alicia Roman and Cheryl Scott (NBC 5); Jessica Zweig, Joran Thompson and Emily Liftman (Cheeky Chicago); Marissa Conrad, Kevin Aeh, Lauren Capobianco, Mark Bieganski and Matt De La Peña (Time Out Chicago); Kori Chambers, Anna Davlantes, Tammie Souza and Mike Tobin (WFLD-TV, Fox News); Cindy Chiang and Ernie Halvorsen (Amazing Race winners); Gina Ferraro (US99.5, WGN); Trent Erikson (WBBM Radio Personality); Andrea Metcalf, Anthony Rinehart and Nicole Jorvix (NBC’s "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is"), Jason Goff (670 The Score/CBS Radio); James Rhine and Orlando Saez (3 Guys in A Booth), John Garcia (ABC 7) and Savannah B. Van Cartier (Baton Club). Event founder Jodi Fyfe started Tickled Pink as a fun way to raise awareness and support for Y-Me in memory of her cousin, Carrie Kenney. In 2004, Kenney lost her seven-year battle with breast cancer at the age of 35. One year later, Fyfe gathered a group of close friends and colleagues to start Tickled Pink in honor of her beloved cousin, whose fun-loving spirit was shining through on this night. “We are thrilled to have the most successful event so far,” enthused Fyfe. Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan hosted this event, which was also where she met her husband, Tom, years ago! It was definitely the place to see and be seen for the younger set in search of new friends! Every year, the party and its organizers come together to ensure that no one has to face breast cancer alone. To date Tickled Pink has raised more than $800K for Y-Me, which is the only place in the world where someone touched by breast cancer can call 24/7 to speak to a breast cancer survivor and be understood in 150 different languages! For more info, please visit www.Y-Me.org or talk to a peer counselor at 1-800-221-2141. I can’t wait to see what next year brings for this party with a purpose! Look at all the fun below on Watch312.com’s “Candid Candace Chicago” (Photos by Maggie Rife and Eric Rademacher…view more party pics here!)

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M Street Kitchen and Stella Rossa Pizza Bar in Santa Monica were the places to be for the 25th anniversary of Windy City West! This popular culinary event attracted more than 500 talented Chicagoans from film, television and music for a celebration of food, fun and friendship. This party began as a way to bring a taste of Chicago and camaraderie to many of our town's brightest actors and actresses living in LA who were homesick for Chicago. Produced by Brenda Sexton and sponsored by The Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Harry Caray's, Cinespace Chicago and IPA, this event attracted loads of Chicago-loving celebs and notable VIPs! Seen on the scene were Jim Belushi, Chris O'Donnell, Jeff Garlin, Marilu Henner, James Denton, Billy Zane, Kevin Farley, Dennis Farina, Joe Mantegna, Chuck Hittinger, Ali Corbin, Sonal Shah, Joel Murray, Richard Kind, Patt Finn, Adrian Zmed, Neil Flynn, Amy Landecker, Playboy Playmates Kimberly Phillips, Ashley Hobbs, Hiromi Oshima, Deanna Brooks and Sarah Erdelyan, Virginia Madsen, Chicago Cubs legend Ernie Banks, former Chicago Bear Willie Gault, 2010 Olympic figure skater champion Evan Lysacek, Chaz Ebert, Bill Zwecker, Andrew Alexander, producer Michael Mann and emcee Tom Dreesen. In honor of the party's anniversary, many of the original Windy City West founders honored one very special Chicagoan – Chicago Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts. He was presented with the 2012 Windy City West "Man of the Year" Award in recognition of his many contributions to Chicago sports and commerce. And the tradition continued from the culinary front with celebs like Billy Zane serving up Windy City favorites such as Lou Malnati's pizza, Vienna Beef hot dogs, Portillo's Italian beef, Harry Caray's Chicken Vesuvio, Garrett's popcorn, Eli's cheesecake and signature fare from HUB 51 and Paris Club in Chicago. (To view ALL event photos by Mitchell Canoff, Vivien Killilea and Tiffany Rose, please click here!)

I hated to miss the Center on Halsted’s annual Oscar party this year but I know it was another runaway success! A sell-out crowd of more than 400 guests brought glitz and glamour to the Park West for this year’s show which was broadcast on three giant movie screens. The night also included a full buffet courtesy of The Entertaining Company, cocktails and champagne. Adding to the festive atmosphere, attendees were interviewed on the red carpet by Precious Jewel, which was aired live via closed-circuit TV courtesy of Mini of Chicago. The Nielsen Company served as presenting sponsor for the second year in a row. All told, Center on Halsted raised a record $70K for their programs and services through ticket sales, a silent auction, a raffle and corporate sponsorships. “Our tremendous success shows the support the people, companies and institutions of Chicago have for our Center,” said CEO Modesto Tico Valle. “The money raised will go directly back to building and strengthening the LGBT community through the diverse programs offered daily at Center on Halsted.” (Photos by Anthony Meade…to view more pics, please click here!)

I thought her grandmother, Princess Grace of Monaco, was one of the most beautiful women in the world and I think her mother, Princess Caroline, has the same lovely features but no one has the looks of global IT girl, Princess Charlotte Casiraghi. Charlotte is the new face of Gucci and, boy, what a smart move this was! Gucci’s latest campaign, shot by Peter Lindbergh, shows Charlotte in one of her favorite spots: with her horse in its stable against a backdrop of hay. She is a natural beauty that this Italian fashion house was wise to snare. Besides the commercial presence, she will also star in their Forever Now campaign series conceived by creative director Frida Giannini in collaboration with Charlotte herself. Over the next two years, the young royal will be photographed by four of the world’s top photographers in photos celebrating the brand’s icons. The video is breathtaking like the lady herself…

http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f8/1817812374

Photographer Steve Starr’s trip to the Oscar’s proved to be a veritable treasure trove of photo ops! He seemed to be everywhere at once! I loved the shot of him near the massive Oscar sign. As one Facebook friend observed, “Steve could’ve been the inspiration for the golden statue.” To see some of his pics from the “Night of 100 Stars” at the Beverly Hilton, please click here! Keep up the great work, Steve!

There are so many great parties coming up! Check out my favorites and I hope to see you at one or more of them!

Wednesday, March 14th: DON’T FORGET! The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will host Hal Rubenstein, fashion director of InStyle magazine. The luncheon will be moderated by Susanna Negovan, hosted by Toni Canada, Nena Ivon and Dusty Stemer. Tickets $75; RSVP to Wendy Schiller at 312.799.2113.

Tuesday, March 27th: McDonald’s All American 35th Anniversary Player Awards Banquet will be held at United Club of Soldier Field beginning at 6 p.m. The evening will include a cocktail reception, silent auction, player ring ceremony, dinner, player and coaches awards plus the presentation of “The 35 Greatest All Americans.” Tickets begin at $250. For more info, please visit www.RonaldHouseChicago.org.

Friday, March 23rd: Fleurotica benefitting the Garfield Park Conservatory will take place at Venue One, located at 1044 W. Randolph beginning at 6:30 p.m. (For more info, please visit www.Fleurotica.org.)

Sunday, March 18th: Borris Powell’s Fall / Winter 2012 Collection can be viewed at the River East Art Center, located at 435 E. Illinois, beginning with a VIP party at 5:30 p.m. I am thrilled to be co-hosting with NBC’s Marcus Riley! (For tickets and more info, please click here!) I will also be covering this event for “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com so please arrive camera ready!

Thanks so much for checking in this week! As I plan segments around town for “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com, I am interested in knowing what YOU would like to see! Please email me and let me know your thoughts! After all, this show is for YOU! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Never underestimate the power of a good herding dog!

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Tagged as 2012 Windy City West Man of the Year Award, 2102 Oscars, 3 Guys in A Booth, 670 The Score/CBS Radio, ABC-7, Adrian Zmed, Alex Perez, Ali Corbin, Alicia Roman, Amazing Race, Amy Landecker, Andrea Metcalf, Andrew Alexander, Anna Davlantes, Anthony Meade, Anthony Ponce, Anthony Rinehart, Ashley Hobbs, Baton Club, Bill Zwecker, Billy Zane, Bon Appetit, Borris Powell, Brenda Sexton, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Chicago, Carrie Kenney, Center on Halsted, Chaz Ebert, Cheeky Chicago, Cheryl Scott (NBC 5) Jessica Zweig, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chris O'Donnell, Chuck Hittinger, Cindy Chiang, Cinespace Chicago, Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, Dana Kozlov, Deanna Brooks, Dennis Farina, Dina Bair, DJ Sarumi, Dusty Stemer, Emily Liftman, Eric Rademacher, Erin McElroy, Ernie Banks, Ernie Halvorsen, Evan Lysacek, Fig Media, Fleurotica, Forever Now, Fox News, Frank Holland, Frida Giannini, Garfield Park Conservatory, Garrett’s Eli’s, Gina Ferraro, Gucci, Hal Rubenstein, Harry Carays, Heaven on Seven, Hiromi Oshima, Homerun Inn Pizza, Hub 51, InStyle, IPA, IPO, Jae Miller, James Denton, James Rhine, Jason Goff, Jeff Garlin, Jim Belushi, Jodi Fyfe, Joe Mantegna, Joel Murray, John Garcia, Joran Thompson, Kevin Aeh, Kevin Farley, Kimberly Phillips, Kori Chambers, Lauren Capobianco, Lauren Jiggetts, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Lou Malnati’s, M Street Kitchen, Macku, Maggie Rige, Marcus Riley, Marilu Henner, Marissa Conrad, Mark Bieganski, Matt De La Peña, McDonald’s All American 35th Anniversary Player Awards Banquet, Michael Mann, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike Puccinelli, Mike Tobin, Mini of Chicago, Mitchell Canoff, Modesto Tico Valle, Natalie Martinez, NBC’s Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, Neil Flynn, Nena Ivon, Nicole Jorvix, Night of 100 Stars, Orlando Saez, Paramount Events, Paris Club, Patt Finn, Peter Lindbergh, Phoebe’s Desserts, Playboy Playmates, Portillo’s, Precious Jewel, Princess Caroline, Princess Charlotte Casiraghi, Princess Grace of Monaco, Purple Pig, Randi Belisomo, Richard Kind, River East Art Center, Rivers Casino, Sarah Erdelyan, Savannah B. Van Cartier, Sonal Shah, Stefan Holt, Stella Rosa Pizza Bar, Steve Starr, Susan Carlson, Susanna Negovan, Susanna Song and Derrick Young, Tammie Souza, TCW, Terzo Piano, The 35 Greatest All Americans, The Entertaining Company, The Hat Guys, The Nielsen Company, The Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Tickled Pink, Tiffany Rose, Time Out Chicago, Tom Dreesen, Tom Negovan, Tom Ricketts, Toni Canada, Trent Erikson, US99.5, Vienna Beef, Virginia Madsen, Vivien Killilea, Watch312.com, WBBM Radio Personality, WBBM-TV, WFLD-TV, WGN, WGN-TV, Willie Gault, Windy City West, Winter Olympics, Y-Me Auxiliary Board, Y-Me Breast Cancer Organization

February 23, 2012 · 9:28 pm

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!

When 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! Channel’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 You 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 were 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, Sun-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 defensive 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 Bob 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 Anzalone, 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 would 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 guarantee 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 as 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 menu 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 with 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 steaks, 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 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 Laundry 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 modern.” 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 job 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 opening 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!

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The 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 chance 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 Clubs, 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 Cadillac 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 course (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, Andy's Frozen Custard, Devon Seafood, Roy's Restaurant, Real Urban BBQ and David Burke's Primehouse. Cadillac donated two outstanding and much coveted raffle prizes: 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! Notables onstage for this giveaway included emcee Alison Rosati, Larry Wert, Steve Foley, Jr. (auto show chairman), Dave Sloan (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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Dionne 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 could’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 season’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!

The 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 – 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 oil-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 Zanarini, 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.)

Don’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 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 Windy 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!

Congrats to darling Chef Ryan Poli on the opening of his new restaurant, Tavernita, at 151 W. Erie! Owned and operated by Mercadito Hospitality, this restaurant 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!

Wow, 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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Tagged as 100 Club of Chicago, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Abby Zanarini, ABC, Alain DUscasse, Alexi Giannoulias, Alicia Roman, Alison Rosati, Amalie Drury, Andre Leon Talley, Andrea Schwartz, Andy's Frozen Custard, Azeeza Khan, Barbara Bates, Barbara Bates Designs, Ben Pao, Bill Rancic, Bill Zwecker, Blues Traveler, Bob Mills, Bob Sirott, BOKA Group, Boys & Girls Clubs, Brenda Sexton, Cadillac, Cadillac SRX, Candid Candace Chicago, Catholic Charities, Catie Keogh, CFDA, Chanel, Charles Tillman, Chavis Aaron, Chef Doug Psaltis, Chef Ryan Poli, Chevy Volt, Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Bears, Chicago Link Productions, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, Christian Siriano, Cindy Burns, Coach Lovie Smith, Coco Chanel, Country, Dave Sloan, David Burke's Primehouse, Devon Seafood, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dionne Williams, Doug Porter, E! Channel, Elie Kuame, Elie Kuame Couture, Elizabeth Foster, Emerge! Fashion Runway Show, Eric Himel, Erica Hoey, eSmiles, Essex House, Evoli Faccioni, Fashion Police, First Look for Charity, Fogo de Chao, Ford Shelby Mustang GT500, Fox Chicago, Francine Turk, French Laundry, Funkinbeautiful Design, Ginny Weissman, Giuliana & Bill, Giuliana Rancic, GOCA Designs, Gordana Rasic, Intersport, Jackie Tillman, Jahi Fitzgerald, JC Steinbrunner, Jeep Wrangler, Jeff Conway of 24/7, Jerrod Melman, Jesus Salgueiro, Jill Nelson, John Walcher, Justin Jacobson, Karen Herman, Kathy Hart, Kevin Bell, Kevin Boehm, Kim Mills, Kim Theiss, Larry Wert, Laura Schwartz, Le Louis XV, Leslie Hindman Associates, Lettuce Entertain You, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lindsay Hoey, Lisa Frame, M Street Kitchen, Mama DePandi, Marcus Riley, Marianne Murciano, Marion Brooks, Marvin Herman, Mary MacGregor, Mary Smithe, MaryAnne Smith, Masters Golf, Matt Toeaina, Mercadito Hospitality, Michael Alan Stein, Michael Walsh, Michelin star, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Misericordia, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Mix, Molly Melman, Monolayer, Napa Valley, NBC, New York Fashion Week, Omar Villalobos, Paul Brian, Paul Iacono, Paul McGee, Project Runway, Real Urban BBQ, Rich Melman, Richard Onik, Richard Roeper, RJ Melman, Ronald McDonald Charities, Roy's Restaurant, RPM Italian, Ryan Chiaverini, Sarah Cooley, Scion, Secretary of State, Shea Vaughn, Sonya Jackson, Stefan Holt, Stella Rossa Pizza Bar, Steve Foley Jr., Stevie Hoey, Style Network, Susan Flynn, Susanna Negovan, Sylvia Perez, Tara Flocco, Tavernita, Terri Stevens, The Cradle Foundation, the Landon twins, The Michael Alan Stein Collection, The Mix, Thomas Keller, Tim Smithe, Tom Dreesen, Tom Ricketts, Tracee Ellis Ross, Val Warner, Vincent Anzalone, Watch312.com, Windy City Live, Windy City West, Women;s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo, Zoo La

September 27, 2011 · 3:47 pm

THE JOFFREY BALLET’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS: SIX YEARS LATER AND STILL GOING STRONG!

I have a soft spot for The Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails”…I admit it. Six years ago when Helen Melchior and I planned this event, I could never have anticipated how successful it would become nor how it would bring me a lifelong friend in Helen. I know this year’s co-chairs, Rebecca Besser and Kristina McGrath, also bonded over this event. It usually happens this way when two like-minded people unite for a common purpose, especially one that is so much fun to plan and for such a wonderful organization. The Joffrey Ballet has come a long way too since its inception. Founded by visionary teacher Robert Joffrey in 1956 in NY, guided by celebrated choreographer Gerald Arpino from 1988 until 2007, The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under internationally renowned Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway. I have loved watching it grow since I’ve been a Women’s Board member and, this year, the Women’s Board has a birthday, too: Our 10th anniversary is being planned as I type and I can’t wait to share those details with you when they’ve been formed by Event Chair Maureen Smith. Every year, Couture & Cocktails has presented a top name designer and, in years past, they have included Maria Pinto (for the inaugural event at The Illuminating Co.), Temperley London and Escada (for the party at the Bentley Dealership where the street was closed and tented!), Pamella Roland (for the first fashion show ever to be presented in the Grand Lobby of the Palmer House), Carmen Marc Valvo (another killer show at the W) and this year’s designer, David Meister. This year’s event was also a first, being the first institution to host a major event at The Hudson at 2222 South Michigan. The previous party held there was the much publicized Ikram anniversary party! Another signature for Couture & Cocktails is always the food! For the original event, we had re
al White Castle sliders in boxes served on silver trays – the first, fun food idea! This year, The Entertaining Company carried on in fine form with sliders, yes, but beef tenderloin sliders, along with many other tasty and creative choices. The dancers were an inspiration and the reason the event was created. We wanted to showcase them in a friendly, fun atmosphere…away from the stage where guests could get to know them as people. They are not only incredible dancers, as we all know, but the most amazing human beings with multiple talents. Why, dancer Amber Neumann even designed cocktail dresses for a number of her cohorts for this night and they were GORGEOUS! Many others are artists and designers. And they are all charming! The live auction was something to behold this year. Great auction packages included a trip for four plus airfare to the British Virgin Island’s Bitter End Yacht Club with airfare courtesy of United Airlines that sold for $14,500. For this package, Executive Director Christopher Conway even donned a sailor suit! He looked adorable! Another package was an “Instant Cellar: Wine & Champagne Collection” with over 50 bottles that sold for $6,500. A PGA Masters Tournament and the Double Eagle Club for four (courtesy of Charlie and Rebecca Besser) plus business class airfare on United Airlines sold for $13,500. Mike and Kristina McGrath donated their 108-foot yacht, the Kristina, for a group of eight for four days and three nights that sold for $21,000. And for the final package, for the first time in the ballet company’s history, a dance-on role was offered during the season opener of its upcoming world premiere of Don Quixote (which begins on October 12th and runs through the 23rd). This sold for $5,000. The party continued in the Intersport VIP Lounge as hot DJ Ashok lured the guests onto the dance floor. Seen on the scene were Chicago Bears Charles Tillman, Anthony Adams, J’Marcus Webb and Robbie Gould as well as the sensational, international choreographer for Don Quixote, Yuri Possokhov. May it never end! Congrats to Kristina and Rebecca along with the supportive Joffrey staff and Women’s Board committee members. (C & C 2011 raised over $250K). For tickets and more info for the Joffrey Ballet and Don Quixote, please visit www.Joffrey.org/DonQuixote or call 800.982.2787. (To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, with additional pics by Steve Starr, please visit here!)

Huge congrats to Emerge!, the premier runway showcase for new designers hosted during New York Fashion Week on its recent blockbuster success! More than 400 people attended this event that opened with designer Tracy Reese presenting the 2011 Fashion Innovator Award to Constance C. White, Editor-in-Chief of ESSENCE Magazine. The audience applauded as White took the runway and expressed her gratitude to the fashion industry and confidence in the Emerge! production (hosted by PR whiz Dionne Williams). Hosted in the magnificent landmark Broad Street Ballroom, located in the financial district, this fantastic production included collections from Adriana Osorio Lugo (Adriana Osorio Lugo Designs), Kirk Johnson (b.-Vain Couture), Berny Martin (Catou) and Borris Powell (Borris Powell Designs). The audience included fashion icon Freddie Leiba, Tamron Hall (MSNBC), Rebecca Crews, fashion execs, buyers, bloggers, socialites, family and friends. Check out this cool video and I hope to see you in the front row next year! To view more pics, please click here!

Chicago Gateway Green

hosted its 20th Green Tie Ball at A. Finkl & Sons over the weekend as you know from, hopefully, reading my Tribune column on Sunday! The theme, “A Return to the Emerald City,” made it easy for some guests to plan their wardrobe! Ruby slippers? Check. Toto? Check. Tin hat and oil can? Check! This year’s co-chairs, Tim Smithe (Walter E. Smith Furniture & Design) and Stephanie Castagnier (The Apprentice 2010) planned an event that included tastings from more than 60 restaurants, a silent auction, charitable gaming, live entertainment by Dr. Bombay, Too White Crew, DJ Rock City plus Platinum Event DJs. Music was everywhere! The Supreme Lobster Chef Challenge featured its final round of the Chicago Summer Chef Challenge Series, too, judged by the Food Dude David Lissner. Emcees Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini kicked off the party in grand style as Grant DePorter was honored with a Leadership Award for his longtime support. His dad, Don DePorter, created Chicago Gateway Green in 1986. This event hosted more than 2,500 guests who came out to support this organization dedicated to the greening and beautifying of Chicago’s expressways, gateways and neighborhoods. For more info, please visit www.GatewayGreen.org or call (312) 540.9930. (For ALL event photos by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

The 47th Chicago International Film Festival will host its opening night benefit on Thursday, October 6th at the Harris Theater located 205 E. Randolph St. beginning with a Red Carpet at 6 PM. The opening night presentation will premiere “The Last Rites of Joe May.” This film is the latest creation from two giant Chicago institutions, actor Dennis Farina and the Steppenwolf Theater Company. Farina gives “the finest performance of his career as an aging hustler whose way of life is at a crossroads” in this film shot in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood and featuring members of the Steppenwolf ensemble. Expect to see Dennis walking the Red Carpet along with the show’s cast and writer/director Joe Maggio. Event emcee will be award-winning journalist Bill Kurtis. The VIP Reception will follow at the Chicago Cultural Center at 77 E. Randolph from 9:30 –11:30 PM. Opening Night tickets can be purchased by visiting the Festival Box Offices (322 E. Illinois or 30 E. Adams) or by calling the Festival Hotline at 312.332.3456. Hopefully, I will see you all there! (I am proud to be a co-chair for this event along with dynamo, RL’s Rich Varnes 🙂 )

I love the name of this event! The 8th Annual “Mutt Strut” invites Chicago to “strut” their stuff for charity on Saturday, October 8th, in Lakeview along Newport Avenue (between Southport and Lakewood) from noon until 2 PM. The party kicks off with a 1.5-mile walk “with your mutt” followed by an old-fashioned block party. This event is open to all ages and will include lunch, children’s activities, contests, raffles, music and a chance to visit with adoptable Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation doggies. Tickets are $25 but kids and dogs get in free! Proceeds will benefit CCR, which was founded in 2001 to help find loving homes for dogs and cats, especially for the most vulnerable in Chicago who are slated for euthanasia because they are too old, too young, too injured, have disabilities or have simply been overlooked for too long by potential adopters and other shelters. CCR is moving to a larger space and the proceeds from this event will help a lot! I hope to see you all there with your four-legged and two-legged friends!

My handsome friends and uber wardrobe stylists to the stars, Jesse Garza and Joe Lupo, have designed their own line of clothing for QVC called VT Luxe. They always have great fashion styling tips and have advised many an A-list celeb, too! Check out their latest video here and you’ll see what I mean! Congrats to Jesse and Joe on their much-deserved success!

And, as long as you’re in a video state of mind, please check out my “Social Circles” video from the Parkways Foundation Hat Luncheon…there is a story around every Chicago corner and I will find it and share it with you! So, keep checking my website at www.Watch312.com for continuous updates of “Behind the Velvet Ropes” coverage of all of Chicago’s TOP events! Some expected, some surprising, but ALWAYS fun!!!!!

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

Well, that’s the lowdown on this week’s Chicago highlights! Hope to see you all for this weekend’s first Chicago Beach Polo Event! May the chukkers be spirited and the horses light-footed! (Who would’ve ever thought these words would come out of my computer!?) I’ll just meet you at the bar… :) (For tickets and more info, please visit www.ChicagoBeachPolo.com!)

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

Tagged as A. Finkl & Sons, Adrian Osorio Lugo Designs, Adriana Osorio Lugo, Amber, Anthony Adams, Ashley Wheater, b.-Vain Couture, Berny Martin, Bill Kurtis, Bitter End Yacht Club, Borris Powell, Borris Powell Designs, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carmen Marc Valvo, Catou, Charles Tillman, Chicago Beach Polo, Chicago Bears, Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago International Film Festival, Christopher Clinton Conway, Constance C. White, Couture & Cocktails, David Meister, Dennis Farina, Dionne Williams, DJ Ashok, DJ Rock City, Don DePorter, Dr. Bombay, Emerge!, Escada, Essence Magazine, Food Dude David Lissner, Freddie Leiba, Gerald Arpino, Grant DePorter, Green Tie Ball, Helen Melchior, J’Marcus Webb, Jesse Garza, Joe Lupo, Joe Maggio, Kirk Johnson, Kristina McGrath, Maria Pinto, Maureen Smith, Mila Samokhina, MSNBC, Mutt Strut, Neuman, New York Fashion Week, Pamella Roland, Platinum Event DJs, QVC, Rebecca Besser, Rebecca Crews, Robbie Gould, Robert Joffrey, Ryan Chiaverini, Social Circles, Stephanie Castagnier, Steppenwolf Theater Company, Tamron Hall, Temperley London, The Apprentice, The Entertaining Company, The Joffrey Ballet, The Last Rites of Joe May, Tim Smithe, Too White Crew, Tracy Reese, United Airlines, Valerie Warner, VT Luxe, Walter E. Smithe Furniture & Design, Watch312.com, Yuri Possokhov

August 28, 2011 · 6:59 pm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as 10022-Shoe, ABC-7, Amalie Drury, Ashley Netzky, Baker House, Bill Kurtis, Brad Goreski, Bravo, Brian Atwood, Caitlin Saville Collins, Cameron Croft, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol Beitler, Carrie Lannon, Carson Kressley, Cassandra Gaddo, CBS’ Most Valuable Blogger, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Loop Alliance, Couture & Cocktails, D.C. Crenshaw, Daphne Ortiz, David Meister, Erica Strama, Gale Gand, Galleria Marchetti, Garfield Park Conservatory, Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Genevieve Theirs, Geovany Soto, Gina Marotta, Go Do Good, Goldie Hawn, Goodman Theatre, Heather Farley, Helen Melchior, Hudson, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, In-Fashion, Joffrey Ballet, John Logan, Jonny Imerman, Julee White, Julia Bachrach, Kay Rosen, Kim Lichtenstein, Kristina McGrath, Kristine Subido, Kyle Richards, Lake Geneva, Lara Shipp Shiffman, Laura Schwartz, Lesley Goodman, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lovie Smith, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Maggie Daley, Magnificant Mile Shopping Festival, Marcus Riley, Mark Rothko, MaryAnne Smith, Mondo Guerra, Neiman Marcus, Peter Marsh, Project Runway, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Rebecca Besser, Red, Robert McGhee, Ronald McDonald House, Rooftop at Studio Paris, Russell Crowe, Saks Fifth Avenue, Shine & Dine, Stacy Levy, Step Up Women’s Network, Susanna Negovan, Testarossa Entertainment, the 900 Shops, Todd Helmink, Todd S. Pugh, United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, Valerie Warner, Wave, Wine & Wildflowers, Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House Near Lurie Children’s, Zed45 Patrick Quackenbush

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