Tag Archives: Chicago International Film Festival

October 5, 2011 · 10:45 pm

THE “SPORT OF KINGS” COMES TO NORTH AVENUE BEACH!

Pounding hooves, clicking mallets, cheering fans, hot club music…all of this happened for the first time on North Avenue Beach this weekend. The Grey Goose Chicago Beach Polo World Cup I, 2011 took place Saturday and Sunday on the sands near the boathouse as eight international teams of men and women took to the field, erghhh…I mean beach! This two day event was one of the best parties I’ve been to in a long, long time! DJ Geronimo played the hot club music between chukkers that reminded me of high season in St. Tropez! The attendees had all dug deep into their closets to find the most fashionably appropriate polo-viewing outfits and they ALL looked so very chic. Beach polo was created first in Dubai in 2004 followed by the Miami Beach Polo World Cup in 2005. For the debut event here, team sponsors included Grey Goose, Gascon, Lutfthansa, Titan Commercial, Amstel/Comcast and Trump Residences. The winning team was Titan Commericial led by players Ben Rosenfield, Chad Middendorf and Guille and Tavi Usandizaga. The horses and players were so close to us, you could hear the snorts and see the sweat (on the horses!). It was so exciting and there was so much going on during the matches. The festivities actually began on Thursday at the Noble Horse Theater on Sedgwick with an incredible, hands-on clinic with the pros. Setting the stage for the World Cup weekend, top rated players Nic Roldan and Brazilian Paula Chermont, along with a team of other players directed an eager group of Chicagoans in practices such as riding, shot techniques, rules and strategy. Following the clinic, there was an after-party at Gallery 1028. Friday night, the Crimson Lounge at the Sax Hotel was the scene for the Press Party where guests mixed and mingled with the players and on Saturday, the main event began. There was a men’s and women’s fashion show presented by Cityblue Apparel & Denim. It was so cool to see the models on the “runway” in the sand which then extended through the VIP Pavilion. I even saw fashion maven Nena Ivon there surveying the show with her unerring eye. President of The Polo Life, Bruce Orosz, had this to say: “Our event continues to grow, thanks to incredible and continuing support from our sponsors and many polo enthusiasts, whose population is also increasing. As interest in the ‘Sport of Kings’ expands, we feel we should follow suit.” Orosz has plans on expanding the beach games to spots around the globe. Alex Webbe, chairman of the International Beach Polo Association added this, “Although over 3,000 years old, the ancient sport of polo made its first appearance in Chicago’s Dexter Park in 1876 when the California Polo Club staged a practice game much to the delight of an enthusiastic assemblage. Three years later, the Chicago Polo Club would be formed. Familiarly played on emerald expanses of the finest Bermuda grasses, beach polo reduces the size of the playing area to a more crowd-friendly size in an effort to drop the action into the laps of the spectators. The sport of beach polo has grown over the years, serving as a ‘moveable feast’ of sorts, bringing this exciting equestrian sport to cities and locales that would not otherwise have the opportunity of observing this age-old sport.” This event truly was a ‘moveable feast’ with fabulous food from Fogo de Chao and Union Sushi & BBQ, photo booths, a Gascon wine tent, an Amstel beer tent, pop-up shops and even electric violinists! The beach was filled with happy laughter and, as both days drew to a close, the sand and dance floor was filled with high spirited, dancing polo-nistas…and this was BEFORE the AFTER-PARTIES began! Whew! Congrats to all involved for bringing (and promoting) this exciting event in Chicago: Grey Goose, Bruce Orosz (Polo Life President), Lou Vasta (producer/partner Chicago Beach Polo), Don Miguel Gascon, Union Sushi & BBQ Bar, Rock Sake, Amstel Light, Tim Huizenga, Mark Mitten, Alex Webbe, Vincent Anzalone, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Dan Uslan, Lonnie Rodriquez, Bettie Bomb PR, Rebecca Kussman, Rebecca Janoff, The Polo Life, the amazing men and women players and their athletic ponies and so many more! Can’t wait to see what next year brings! My only complaint is that the event should be held two weeks earlier. Saturday was very cool but sure didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits! For more info, please visit www.ThePoloLife.com. (Additional photos courtesy of Helena Rafeyan and Caitlin Collins. To see ALL event pics, please click HERE!)

The 26th annual fall benefit for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation kicked off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton featuring guest speaker/actress, Goldie Hawn. The event was co-chaired by Michelle Friedman, Ashley Hemphill Netzky and Lara Shipp Shiffman. Children from the Music Institute of Chicago performed for 750 happy guests anxious to hear Goldie, whose mother was a breast cancer survivor, speak. The room was a sea of pink with linens provided by BBJ and assorted pink blossom centerpieces courtesy of Heffernan Morgan/Ronsley. Attendees also had the chance to bid on new and collectible handbags from upscale boutiques and private collections for the “Purse-sue the Cure” silent auction. Bryan and Julie Barrish and family, Neil Bluhm, and Cari and Michael Sacks were Daisy Sponsor supporters for this event, which raised $635,000 to support breast cancer research, fellowships and educational programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern. LSCRF has begun to “Light the Way to Find a Cure,” turning Chicago’s beautiful skyline pink to raise awareness throughout the month of October. To learn more about this wonderful organization or to make a donation, please visit www.lynnsage.org.

I hope you got a chance to enjoy Chicago’s FIRST “Open Streets” event downtown this weekend. This concept, introduced previously to the city by the Active Transportation Alliance, closed seven blocks of State Street to buses, cars and cabs so pedestrians could enjoy a safe place to stroll, bicycle, walk the dog and meander free from the worries of traffic. Sponsored by the Illinois Center for Broadcasting, this popular idea, called a “ciclovia” (Spanish for bike path), originated in Bogota, Columbia. Ciclovias are now popular in many places around the world including New York (where Park Avenue is closed) and San Francisco (where Grant Avenue is closed). The Loop Alliance helped Active Trans organize this year’s event along with help from supportive Aldermen Brendan Reilly and Robert Fioretti as well as Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Ty Tabing. This fun day included an Imagination Playground, a Scavenger Hunt, a dunking booth, the Windy City Rollers, break dance instruction, a skateboard park and live streaming from the Illinois Center for Broadcasting featuring Bionce Foxx and Ernie Scatton. Watch for video from Watch312.com with highlights coming soon! 🙂

Macy's scored another coup having my favorite “Girl Next Door,” Kendra Wilkinson/Baskett, make an in-store appearance at their State Street store for a signing of her latest book, “Being Kendra: Cribs, Cocktails & Getting My Sexy Back.” This is her second book, following her New York Times bestseller, “Sliding into Home.” In her current book, she “reveals her private side, sharing the ups and downs, the joys and challenges of motherhood, marriage, and life in the spotlight.” I will tell you, the opening paragraph catches your attention immediately. “Hank and I had sex on the staircase today. Right there, flat-out spontaneous sex with our clothes mostly still on. Steps digging into my back, the banister acting as a bedpost. It was quick and skillful.” Kendra is blatantly honest which makes her such a successful author and popular reality star. She told me she asks the E! Channel to “put it all in because it’s life. If there’s dog poo on the floor, I tell them to show it.” She has lived a large part of her life in front of the cameras and her intent is to build security for Baby Hank so “he doesn’t have to live that lifestyle.” (Kendra was a stripper when she was discovered by Hef.) Her appearance at Macy’s was filmed by E! for an upcoming show segment. Tribune nightlife reporter Luis Arroyo and Black Sophisticate’s Hairstyle Guide (owned by my friend Bonnie Krueger) also covered this fun event. Kendra’s fans filled the lower level in anticipation of her arrival. I loved talking to her…she’s real, press savvy and driven. Go Kendra! Go Kendra! (Thanks to Macy’s Kamal Bosamia and Andrea Schwartz for this terrific opportunity!) Check out my interview below on Watch312.com and see how interested she is in my own Playboy history!

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

The coming weeks will bring lots of exciting events and here are a few CANDACE RECOMMENDS. Hope to see you at one or more of these fun fundraisers!

On Thursday, October 6th, the International Film Fest Opening Night Gala will feature “The Last Rites of Joe May” and its star, Dennis Farina. Bill Kurtis will emcee. For tickets and more info, please visit www.ChicagoFilmFestival.com.

On Friday, October 7th, designer Hector MonArrez presents his FRONT ROW 2012 Fashion Show at the Union League Club beginning at 6:15 PM with a VIP champagne reception. Tickets (starting at $45) can be purchased by visiting www.monarrezcollection.com.

On Thursday, October 13th, the Art of Home will celebrate 50 Chicago area artists in a benefit to raise funds for Lakeside Housing programs. I am so proud to be a part of this worthy event which will take place at Zhou Brothers Art Center at 1029 W. 35th St. from 6-9 PM. For tickets ($150), please click herge!

Fashion Focus Chicago begins on Monday, October 17th and runs through the 23rd in Millennium Park. Tickets are $35 for general admission which applies to each of the four shows in the tent this year. All ticket holders will be seated, no SRO crowds this year! There are a host of other fashionable events surrounding Fashion Focus including the FIRST show called NEXT FASHION CHICAGO, which will occur Monday night, October 17th, from 6:30 – 10 PM at the Germania Club, located at 108 W. Germania Place. The show, produced by Rose Mandel/Mandel Productions, is the first full-length group show and will include designers Elda de la Rosa, Sahar Dada, Sujata Gazder, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Mira Couture, Fraley Le, Gary Gonzales and Cleons. Featured stores include Bottega Contessa, Sofia, Furla and Cache. I am proud to be an emcee along with NBC’s popular Marcus Riley! For tickets, beginning at $30, please visit www.NextFashionChicago.com.

Saturday, October 15th, the Kohl Children’s Museum will celebrate 25 years with “An Evening to Imagine” at 2100 Patriot Blvd. in Glenview. The fun-filled celebration will feature music, dining, dancing and magic with surprises for the entire family! Individual tickets start at $500. For more info, please visit www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org or call 847-832-6600.

And lastly, on a personal note, I want to congratulate two friends on their EMMY nominations: Steve Weiss and Catie Keogh! Catie’s show – “24/7” - has once again been nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Magazine Programming! Her show runs on NBC 5 at 12:30 AM as well as 35 times a week on the NBC Nonstop Channels. Congrats to one of the hardest working women in showbiz! And my neighbor/friend, Steve Weiss, and his company, ZACUTO, have been nominated for FOUR Emmys – one for Outstanding Achievement for Documentary Programs, one for Outstanding Achievement for Informational Programming, one for Interview Programming and one for Outstanding Crafts Achievement Off-Air: Editor-Program. I wish them both the BEST of luck!!! 🙂

Well, this is the lowdown on Chicago’s highlights for this week! I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace and that I “see” you again next week, same time, same place!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Dogs really are man’s best friend, in many, many ways… 🙂

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Television, Weblogs

Tagged as 24/7, Active Transportation Alliance, Alex Webbe, Amstel Light, Amstel/Comcast, Andrea Schwartz, Art of Home, Ashley Hemphill Netzky, BBJ, Being Kendra: Cribs, Ben Rosenfield, Bettie Bomb PR, Bill Kurtis, Bionce Foxx, Black Sophisticate’s Hairstyle Guide, Bonnie Krueger, Brendan Reilly, Bruce Orosz, Bryan Barrish, Cache, Caitlin Collins Saville, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Cari Sacks, Catie Keogh, Chad Middendorf, Chicago International Film Festival, Cityblue Apparel & Denim, Cleons. Bottega Contessa, Cocktails & Getting My Sexy Back, Crimson Lounge, Dan Uslan, Dennis Farina, DJ Geronimo, Don Miguel Gascon, E!, elda de la rosa, Emmy awards, Ernie Scatton, Fashion Focus Chicago, Fogo de Chao, Fraley Le, Front Row 2012 Fashion Show, Furla, Gallery 1028, Gary Gonzales, Gascon, Goldie Hawn, Grey Goose, Grey Goose Chicago Beach Polo World Cup I, Guille Usandizaga, Hank Baskett, Hector Mon Arrez, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Heffernan Morgan Ronsley, Helena Rafeyan, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, International Brach Polo Association, Julie Barrish and family, Kamal Bosamia, Kendra Wilkinson, Kohl Children's Museum, Lakeside Housing, Lara Shipp Shiffman, Lonnie Rodriquez, Loop Alliance, Lou Vasta, Luis Arroyo, Lutfthansa, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Macy's, Mandel Productions, Marcus Riley, Mark Mitten, Michael Sacks, Michelle Friedman, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mira Couture, Music Institute of Chicago, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Neil Bluhm, Nena Ivon, NEXT Fashion Chicago, Nic Roldan, Noble Horse Theater, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Open Streets, Paula Chermont, Rebecca Janoff, Rebecca Kussman, Robert Fioretti, Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rock Sake, Rose Mandel, Sahar Dada, Sax Hotel, Sliding into Home, Sofia, Steve Weiss, Sujata Gazder, Tavi Usandizaga, The Last Rights of Joe May, The Polo Life, Tim Huizenga, Titan Commercial, Trump Residences, Union Sushi & BBQ, Union Sushi & BBQ Bar, Vincent Anzalone, Watch312.com, Windy City Rollers, Zacuto, Zhou Brothers Art Center

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 23, 2011 · 11:09 pm

THE WINDY CITY WELCOMES HOLLYWOOD KINGS

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

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

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

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Friday, September 9th

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

Sunday, September 11th

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

Saturday, September 17th

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as A. Finkl & Sons, Alicia August-Wright, Alison Rosati, Andreana Droz, April Schink, Art Smith, Bergstein’s NY Deli Truck, Bill Clinton, Bill Curtis, Billy Williams, Bistro One West, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Bruce Springsteen, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carlos Zambrano, Carol Prins, Catholic Charities, CBS’ Most Valuable Blogger Awards, Cheryl Burton, Chicago Cubs, Chicago International Film Festival, Chicago Street Musicians, Children’s Oncology Services Inc., Cleetus Friedman, Common Threads, Darby Hill, Dark Matter Coffee Company, Dawali Mediterranean Kitchen, Debra Hoag, Dennis Garcia, Derrick Rose, DJ Rock City, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, E Street Band, e.leaven Food Company, Emilio Estevez, English Bar & Restaurant, Eric Paul, Forever Yoghurt Truck, Fred Jackson, Gateway Green, Geraldine Rodriguez, Governor Quinn, Graham Elliot, Green Tie Ball, H2) Soul, Holly Hunt, How to Talk to Anyone Anytime Anywhere, Jack Nicholson, Jerry Stone, Jesse Jackson, Jim Henson, Jo Ann Nathan, Julius Russell, Kermit the Frog, Lane Davis, Larry King, Laura Washington, Leslie Hindman, LickLick, Lynne Bredfeldt, Macy’s Chefs A-Go-Go Tour, MADD, Marilyn Miglin, Marlena Miglin, Martin Sheen, Matthew Miele, Meisha Herron, Mel Gibson, Michael Douglas, Michael Kornick, Michael Kutza, Mila Samokhina, Mindy Segal, Misericordia, Mitch Canoff, Mobi Munch Truck, Old School Root Beer Float Cart, Parkways Foundation, Patrice Perkins, Patrick Kane, Paul McCartney, Peanuts, Platinum Events DJs, Porkchop, Rich Gamble, Rich Varnes, Rivers Casino, Robert Redford, Ryan Poli, Saddam Hussein, Shawn King, Simona Garcia, Social Circles, Sophie Bross, Soul People, St. Louis Cardinals, Stephanie Castagnier. Dr. Bombay, Stephanie Izard, Steve Bonner, Steve Starr, Steven Spielberg, Street Food Artistry, Sugar Rautbord, Takashi Yagihashi, The Real Connection, The Way, Tim Smithe, Tony La Russa, Toque: An Evening with Chicago’s Culinary Masters, Treatment Centers of America, Under the Streetlamp: An Intimate Evening with the Recent Stars of Chicago’s Jersey Boys, University of Chicago Charter School, Vladimir Putin, Windy City Live, Woody Allen, Wow Bao

August 17, 2011 · 4:11 pm

FASHION FLIES “LIKE A G6” AT GLAMORAMA PLUS FAR EAST MOVEMENT AND CEE LO GREEN!

The crowd was flying “like a G6” at the 13th Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama Friday night. The Far East Movement along with singer/rapper/writer/producer and Grammy Award winner Cee Lo Green headlined this fashion extravaganza that was one of the best Glams I’ve ever attended. The producers for this year’s event outdid themselves in every way. A special shout out to choreographer extraordinaire Myron Johnson! The dance numbers were out of this world! Young dancing sensations Bailey and Sharlese were so fabulous that Macy’s asked them to walk the Media Line after the rehearsal! I coveted almost every single style that was presented along with their perfect accessories. Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs showed looks reminiscent of the 1940’s with little pillbox hats, ¾ length skirts and dresses and romantic silhouettes with fur shrugs thrown casually over the models’ shoulders. Gaultier even went so far as to describe its collection as a “nod to middle age declaring gray is beautiful.” Hallelujah to that!! Even the hairstyles, designed by Sally Noblett and her team from Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa, were stylized and sleek as opposed to the loosey, goosey look of recent years. I loved it ALL! Since the theme was “Artrageous,” national Lancome makeup artist Alex Sanchez created looks inspired by painter’s palettes. The models were all so GLAM and beautiful! Elegance was the watchword for the evening except for some of the menswear lines. Armani Jeans showed rapper inspired fashions with cut-up jeans, bomber jackets and skull caps. Papi, a men’s underwear collection out of Miami, was a huge hit with the ladies as the models strutted their six-packs to the wild applause from the audience. The colorful underwear seemed to be a crowd pleaser and, why not, when you have famous boxer Evander Holyfield’s son Jr. in the lineup!? And he was as nice as he was cute (I had the privilege of interviewing him for Social Circles). The show opened with a heartfelt video featuring Ronald McDonald’s Ambassador family, the Van Fossons. Alisha, at age 12, had been through 32 surgeries and tearfully explained how thankful she was to the Ronald McDonald Houses for “giving her family such a wonderful home away from home.” Her mom, Patty, put it bluntly. “If it wasn’t for the House, Alisha would still be in a wheelchair or on a respirator.” The fashions were fabulous and wearable on the runway. Here is my roundup. Sonia Rykiel showed a great mix of textures, fabrics and colors. Not for me, but looked great on the models, of course! Kenneth Cole showed sporty, yet professional looks for men while Tracy Reese’s line focused on flirty skirts and dresses in the colors of fall: brown, toffee, black and gray with metallic and jewel undertones. For the first time, Karl Lagerfeld’s Impulse collection debuted in Chicago. This line features limited-edition women’s apparel including a blend of dresses, airy tops, tweeds, tees and jackets all with a rock n’ roll edge. Bar III’s collection appeared onstage with Far East Movement (not a bad position and the crowd loved the mix) and showed a contemporary line featuring men’s and women’s clothing (they have a growing home collection as well). I loved the entertainment this year, too! Far East Movement is the first Asian-American group with a #1 song in the country, “Like a G6.” Their stylish, modern looks were a winner and their friendly manner with the fans won me over completely, especially with their kind attention to Alisha. Candid Candace has eyes and ears everywhere. And even though I loved Cee Lo Green, especially since two of his top songs, Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy” and Pussycat Dolls’ “Don’t Cha” are two of my favorites, let’s just say he was great onstage. He performed both of these songs and the latter one with his own clever lyrics. When he asked the crowd, “Don’t cha wish your boyfriend was rich like me?” the crowd exploded. He also performed his latest chart topper, “F*ck You.” Thankfully, he didn’t do it as graphically as it sounds. After the one-hour show, the chic crowd high-tailed it over to the 7th floor at Macy’s for its “Artrageous After-Party.” And the name sure applied because there was something colorful, inspiring and fun in every corner! There was an interactive Patron Tequila Photobooth, silhouette artists in the American Express Lounge, Lancome makeup touch-up stations, 18 fully stocked Patron bars featuring signature Glamorama cocktails like the Glam Grapefruit, Patron Pomorama or the Patron Pineapple Couture. Food stations included Grilled Panini Comforts, American Graffiti, Late Night Breakfast and Asian Food Art with a Sushi Bar. The OfficeMax Lounge featured fashion sketches by designers-in-residence of the Chicago Fashion Incubator. It was so nice to know that, for the third year, this event benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana in the building of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House in Chicago near Lurie Children’s Hospital which is located in the Streeterville neighborhood. There are so many people to thank in the creation of this massive event – and I know I will leave some names out, so forgive me! – so special thanks to Andrea Schwartz, Martine Reardon, Robin Reibel, Robin Hall, Mike Gansmoe, Greg Moore, Kamal Bosamia, Mardelle Gundlach, Christina Thomas, Alyssa Hock, Laura Schara, the Van Fosson Family, Myron Johnson, Sally Noblett, Alex Sanchez, the Amazing Dancers, Models, Entertainers and Backstage Helpers, Jamie Haberkorn, Ralph Hughes, the Sponsors and Everyone Else who was involved!!!! I was so proud to be the Honorary Chair for this sensational event, along with my illustrious Host Committee, that raised more than $350K for RMHCCNI. It was also one of the best Glams attended so far with 3,000-plus people in attendance! (To view ALL Glam pics by Mila Samokhina – whose photos also appeared on “Windy City Live” this week – plus Steve Starr, please click HERE!)

Doesn’t the name “Burscott Park” evoke memories of some ancient, English hunting grounds reserved for royalty? Well, in a way, this is true. Especially since you consider the fact that it is the summer home of culinary royalty, George Jewell. Recently, George graciously lent his elegant estate to Common Threads for a “BBQ Unlike Any Other.” And boy, was this ever the case since five of Chicago’s top chefs cooked an outdoor feast the likes of which I probably won’t see again! The weather tried hard not to cooperate but nothing could dampen the spirits of the many supporters who showed up to eat, drink and put the fun in fundraising! Host Committee members Mary Cameron Frey, Greg Cameron, Greg Thompson and Karen and Marvin Herman enlisted incredibly talented Chefs David Blonsky (Public House/Bull and Bear), Jessie Oloroso (Black Dog Gelato), Ryan Poli (Tavernita), Patrick Sheerin (The Signature Room) and Scott Walton (Markethouse/Greenbush Brewery/Froehlich’s Bakery). Specialties for the day included charred cuttlefish, grilled Dietzler Farm beef shoulder sandwiches, Becker Lane pork belly sandwiches with seedling farm jam, Pin Oak’s lamb ribs with tomato jam BBQ sauce, grilled oysters Rockefeller, panzanella with fried kalamata olive bread and Green Acres red Pontiac potato salad among many others. Dessert consisted of a chocolate and manchego grilled cheese sandwich with smoked date gelato and a blackberry compote! DELICIOUS!!! There was also a lively auction led by Judd Malkin who stood on a chair to get the guests’ attention while his gorgeous wife, Katherine, looked on watchfully and lovingly. George’s guest house was chic in every way and, if he hadn’t chosen to be the world’s top caterer, he would’ve been the world’s top designer. The lighting was so dramatic yet the furniture and antiques were definitely there to be used. There was nothing precious and I noted he even burned the candles on his wall sconces instead of just keeping them there for decoration like I do! A walk around the spacious grounds revealed a large pond inhabited by four gorgeous white swans. All of the property was perfectly manicured, of course, except for the huge vegetable garden and some large patches of wildflowers. A dinner at George’s must be one very special occasion! A walk in the other direction revealed peacocks and peahens in an enclosure. Staff told me they would normally be roaming the grounds except for the party on this night. Ahhhhh, what a perfectly delightful day and night in the country, made even better by the fact that it all benefitted Common Threads to the tune of $22K! This amount of money is enough to completely fund groceries for 14 out of their 18 Chicago 10-week after-school programs for this coming fall, bringing over 225 kids together to learn to prepare meals themselves! (To view more pics, please click here.)

Didn’t you just love The Temptations? Hello! Who didn’t!? Well, now you get a chance to relive this glorious past at “The Temptations Revue!” on Friday, August 19th, at the Park West, located at 322 W. Armitage. This event, beginning at 6 PM with cocktails, benefits the Zoe Foundation which is dedicated to the research and cure of atrial fibrillation. Dinner begins at 7:30 PM with a live auction followed by a 9 PM concert and dancing, dancing, dancing! Tickets are $150 and can be purchased by calling 630.790.2687.

CANDACE RECOMMENDS: Tickets ($200) are still available for the 47th Chicago International Film Festival honoring Martin Sheen with a premiere of his new film “The Way.” For more info, please call 312.683.0121 or visit www.ChicagoFilmFestival.com. Also, “Taste of the Gold Coast” is coming to the Sutton Place Hotel, located at 21 E. Bellevue, on Tuesday, August 23rd, from 6 to 9 PM. Over 13 neighborhood restaurants are participating and there will be live entertainment plus a silent auction benefitting the North Dearborn Association! For tickets ($80-$100), please call 312.730.8262. “Shine & Dine,” benefitting the Step-Up Women’s Network, will be featuring “Windy City Live” darling, Valerie Warner, at Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie, on Thursday, August 18th, from 6-9 PM. Tickets begin at $75 and can be purchased by calling 312.235.3277. I also hope you can attend the “The Rooftop Party at Studio Paris,” located at 59 W. Hubbard, on Thursday, August 18th, benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities from 5 to 8 PM. Tickets are $150 per person and include hors d’oeuvres and cocktails plus a chance to be a part of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House’s history. For tickets and more info, please visit www.RonaldHouseChicago.org.

If you haven't already received my terrorist demand in an email earlier, please take note! I am SO thrilled to be a finalist in CBS’s “Chicago’s Most Valuable Blogger Awards 2011.” I need your vote! You can vote every day until September 9th! (It IS Chicago after all!) It’s really easy, too…just click and vote for Candid Candace HERE! Other finalists I will be voting for include Amanda Puck’s Foodarazzi, CTA Tattler and Julie DiCaro’s “A League of Her Own.” May the best blogger win!!!

Thanks again to “Windy City Live” for having me on again this week! If you missed the show, please check it out HERE… 🙂

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I will have lots of info on some great September events coming up next week so I hope you stay tuned plus the usual recap of some other exciting happenings around town! I hope you enjoy this beautiful weather and have a wonderful weekend! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S Awwwwwwww…just something to make you smile!

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Tagged as A League of Her Own, Alex Sanchez, Alisha Van Fosson, Alyssa Hock, Amanda Puck, Andrea Schwartz, Armani Jeans, Bar III, Buescott Park, Bull and Bear, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, CBS Chicago’s Most Valuable Blogger Awards 2011, Cee Lo Green, Chicago International Film Festival, Christina Thomas, Common Threads, CTA Tattler, David Blonsky, Dietzler Farm, Evander Holyfield, Evander Holyfield Jr., Far East Movement, Foodarazzi, Froehlich’s Bakery, Galleria Marchetti, George Jewell, Glamorama, Gnarles Barkley, Greenbush Brewery, Greg Cameron, Greg Moore, Greg Thompson, Impulse, Jamie Haberkorn, Jean Paul Gaultier, Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa, Judd Malkin, Julie DiCaro, Kamal Bosamia, Karen Herman, Karl Lagerfeld, Katherine Chez, Kenneth Cole, Laura Schara, Like a G6, Lurie Children's Hospital, Macy's, Marc Jacobs, Mardelle Gundlach, Markethouse, Martin Sheen, Martine Reardon, Marvin Herman, Mary Cameron Frey, Mike Gansmoe, Mila Samokhina, Myron Johnson, North Dearborn Association, Papi, Patrick Sheerin, Public House, Pussycat Dolls, Ralph Hughes, Robin Hall, Robin Reibel, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Chariries of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ryan Poli, Sally Noblett, Scott Walton, Shine & Dine, Social Circles, Sonia Rykiel, Step Up Women’s Network, Steve Starr, Studio Paris, Sutton Place Hotel, Taste of the Gold Coast, Tavernita, The Signature Room, The Temptations, The Temptations Revue, The Way, Tracy Rees, Valerie Warner, Windy City Live, ZOE Foundation

August 9, 2011 · 8:42 pm

51st GLAMOURCON HIGHLIGHTS PLAYBOY PLAYMATES, PAST AND PRESENT!

Glamourcon is a bi-yearly event that celebrates the world of glamour and pinup art with an emphasis on Playboy Playmates. This year at the Crowne Plaza O’Hare, more than 20 Playmates participated. There were girls from every era including the current Playmate of the Year, Claire Sinclair. Claire’s looks harken back to the days of famous pinup Bettie Page with her dark hair and short cropped bangs. Even her flirty, polka dot skirt reminded me of a kinder, gentler time. No wonder Hef picked her! Of course, I guess it doesn’t hurt to be dating his son, Marston, either! At 20 years of age, Claire is one of the youngest Playmates of the Year! My husband wondered if she even had her driver’s license and I replied that I am sure she has no shortage of limo offers! She is cute, adorable, bright, funny and sexy all rolled into one package. Her star turn at MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris revue brought the house down during her hot burlesque number on the big, red lips sofa. But enough about Claire – there were lots of other fabulous Playmates there too like Janis Schmitt, Miss February 1978 (who I was a Bunny with in St. Louis), Lee Ann Michelle (Miss February 1979), Liz Glazowski (4/80), Charlotte Kemp (12/82), Kerri Kendall (9/90), Crystal McCahill (5/09) and her mom Gale Olson (8/68), Henriette Allais (3/80), Cathy St. George (8/82), Lorraine Michaels (4/81) and Lisa Sohm (4/77), among others. The two-day event attracted more than 600 fans and offered everything under the sun pin-up related including vintage Playboy magazines, original artwork, t-shirts, sculptures, Playboy clothing, photography sessions, an old-time burlesque show by Vaudezilla.com and jewelry to name a few of the highlights. It was great seeing favorite friend/fans like Tom Shimada who never fails to amaze me. During the last show, he had found a Playboy cover that I had never seen and he did it again this year! He brought an unknown cover from Mexico dated March 1981. Playmate Cathy St. George had done the identical cover for the U.S. version in October 1981. Playboy is one of the original “recyclers!” Also seen on the scene, the “Playmate’s Friend” Larry Armstrong (who always finds treasures to bring to the show), John O’Neill, photographer Tom Testolin, Seth Grenald, calendar and poster dealer Thomas Helmke (who presented me with my calendar from 1982), John Newman, artists Alex Lord and Steve Baier along with dear Jeff Evans (who is the only person I know with a baseball signed by almost every single 500+ home run hitter including Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Frank Thomas, Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Willie Mays, Reggie Jackson and Barry Bonds to name a few!!!). Friend and United Airlines pilot, Bloke Mauer, touched my heart by gifting me with half of his pilot’s wings! The next Glamourcon will be at the Hilton in Long Beach, California, on November 5th and 6th. I talked to Patti Connors and we hope to make it a Bunny/Playmate reunion with Janis Schmitt and Debra Jensen McMurray, (Miss January1978). Who knows, maybe we can take a casserole over to the Mansion to console Hef! Thanks to all who attended Glamourcon 51 and event founder Bob Schultz! Hope to see you all in Long Beach!!! To learn more about the event, click here. (To view ALL event photos, please click here!)

The Shedd Aquarium’s 5th Annual BLU event was an ocean lover’s delight with more than 1,000 guests mixing and mingling at the historic aquarium on a perfect night in Chicago. The star of the show was the jellyfish (jellies) exhibit but the true star was the aquarium itself. Opening in 1930, it has been a top cultural attraction in the city and, on this night, with the decorative lighting, the exhibits looked like stage sets. The jellyfish were glowing and undulating in their temporary homes (which I hope becomes permanent!) and the sharks, along with 500 other species, were swimming lazily in the Wild Reef complete with its own crashing surf. I am ashamed to say this was only my second time at the Shedd, but thanks to their dynamic Auxiliary Board, who presented this event, I will be returning again and again. There is so much to see here! On this night there were tastings from some of Chicago’s top restaurants including farm raised caviar from Big Fish Farms, tuna and salmon tartar from cibo matto at the Wit, Spanish saffron rice and chicken from Emilio’s Tapas, steak tartar from Hubbard Inn, house smoked sturgeon from Lockwood Restaurant, tacos de carnitas from Mercadito, pan seared goat cheese from Prairie Grass Café, duck breast and beet salad from newcomer Roka Akor Sushi and Steak and a gorgeous chocolate tower of fondue from the Melting Pot among many others. At the end of the night, when dancing began on the Lakefront Terrace, delicious pizza from Aurelio’s was served. Co-chairs Janet Barnes and Julie Hawkins, along with the Shedd staff led by Katie Clark, planned a perfect night under the stars that raised over $150K for conservation and educational programs. I hope to meet you by the shark tank sometime soon! (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina).

Lots more summer fun coming in the Windy City with the first ever “Street Food Artistry Event” on Sunday, August 14th, at Galleria Marchetti, located at 825 W. Erie, from 1 – 7 PM. This unique event celebrates Chicago’s street food culture and will include food trucks, street-inspired dishes, food carts, street inspired art, photography and more. There will even be an adorable doggie ice cream truck, LickLick, which will cater to the four-legged guests! Owner Adreana Droz says, “We use only top-grade human ingredients in our doggie treats and ice cream. There are no preservatives or stabilizers of any kind.” Fido can choose between flavors such as peanut butter bacon, green apple cheddar, carrot carob and strawberry almond mint. Makes me wish I was a dog! (Not really!) The silent auction will benefit Common Threads, Chicago Street Musicians and the University of Chicago Charter School. Tickets are only $35 can be purchased by calling 312.884.1278 or visiting www.streetfoodchicago.com/event-deets.

The 47th Chicago Film Festival will honor actor Martin Sheen with a much deserved Lifetime Achievement Award before he premieres his latest film, “The Way” on Friday, August 19th. He will walk the Red Carpet beginning at 6:30 PM alongside his son, Emilio Estevez, who wrote and co-directed with his dad. The film is a feel-good movie about the relationship between a father and son. Film Fest founder Michael Kutza always reins in top talent for his galas and this year is no exception. The film will premiere at AMC River East with a post reception across the street at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Legendary Bill Kurtis will be the emcee and RL’s Rich Varnes is the chair for this event along with a great host committee. Tickets are $200 and can be purchased by calling 312.683.0121 or by visiting www.chicagofilmfestival.com.

It will be a week of dance next week beginning with the 20th anniversary of the Dance for Life Gala coming to the Auditorium Theatre, located at 50 E. Congress Parkway, on Saturday, August 20th. This event benefits DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids) and will feature five dance companies including The Joffrey Ballet, Ron de Jesus Dance, Giordano Jazz Dance of Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance and River North Dance Company plus two world premieres by choreographers Harrison McEldowney and Randy Duncan. Tickets begin at $50 for performance only and $175 for pre-event reception and performance. To purchase tickets or for more info, please call 312.922.5812 or visit www.danceforlifechicago.com.

Following this dance theme, the Chicago Dancing Festival will present its opening night benefit gala at the MCA with Mayor Rahm Emanuel as the host on Monday, August 22nd. (He used to be a ballet dancer, dontcha know?) The night will feature an intimate evening of duet performances by Brian Brooks Moving Company, Faye Driscoll, Hubbard Street Dance, artists from The Joffrey Ballet, Martha Graham Dance Company and the Chicago Dancing Festival’s first ever original commissioned work by Walter Dundervill. The performance begins at 6 PM followed by cocktails and dinner. This event kicks off five days of the festival with the Grand Finale on Saturday night, August 27th, beginning at 7:30 PM with the “Celebration of Dance,” which is open to the public in Millennium Park. For tickets ($250) and more info, please call 312.931.9954 or visit www.ChicagoDancingFestival.com.

ASIDES! Congrats to Tails in the City for being a destination point for John Legend and girlfriend Chrissy Teigen. Darling owners Bruce Haas and Philip Emigh tell me they stocked up on Poochee collars and leashes, a new carrier and bed plus lots of toys and treats. John was in town touring with Sade but, before the show, they headed to Table 52 for Chef Art’s famous fried chicken!

Chicago’s own Steve Starr is known for his photography skills but the set stylists for the much-talked about new television show, "The Playboy Club," sought him out for something else. Steve also has cases of vintage items available for purchase in the Lincoln Antique Mall (on Irving Park Road near Kedzie). There, they found some wonderful pieces for their set including a vintage radio and French sunglasses circa 1962. Steve Starr – a man of many talents!

Hope some of you caught me on “Windy City Live” Monday morning! It was so much fun sitting at the “BIG Chat Desk” with Val, Ryan and Ji… :-) I will be on again on Monday, August 15th, at 9 AM on Ch. 7. If you missed it, please check it out below AND, if you enjoy the segment, please Facebook “Windy City Live” and let them know!

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Well, that’s this week’s lowdown on some fantastic highlights! Hope to see you all at Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama Friday night benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities!!! Tickets are still available by visiting www.RonaldHouseChicago.org or by calling 630.623.2309.

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Wishing the happiest of birthdays to beloved Fred Gohl! A zillion family and friends celebrated his recent 95th birthday! Happy Birthday Fred and many, many more!

Tag Archives: Chicago International Film Festival

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51st GLAMOURCON HIGHLIGHTS PLAYBOY PLAYMATES, PAST AND PRESENT!

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