Tag Archives: DC Crenshaw

February 4, 2013 · 10:30 am

CHICAGO BEARS ISRAEL IDONIJE AND JERRY AZUMAH “LAUGH OUT LOUD” FOR CHARITY

…PLUS RICHARD DENT SHARES A SECRET, NORTHWESTERN STUDENTS’ EARTH SAVING PROJECT, CRYSTAL’S BIG HEART, NICOLE’S BRIDAL TIPS, A HOMETOWN DESSERT FIT FOR A PRESIDENT, PAMELLA AND DAN MAKE SOME PLANS, A SECRET PARTY (WELL, NOT ANYMORE!), THE LYRIC TAKES YOU TO PARIS, WOMEN DRIVING EXCELLENCE AND SO MUCH MORE!

A cold and rainy night didn’t keep the crowds from packing the house at the hot River North nightclub, Untitled, for the second annual Laugh Out Loud comedy show on January 29th. Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and former all-pro Chicago Bear Jerry Azumah teamed up to benefit their respective charities for a night that included some of the top comedic talent around. Jerry’s charity, the Azumah Student Assistance Program (ASAP) Foundation, develops innovative and unique programs and charity events designed to raise funds for disadvantaged students. Israel’s charity, the Israel Idonije Foundation, inspires underserved communities by providing programs focused on social and emotional life skills. Together, these great superstars created an evening that all those in attendance won’t soon forget. By the end of the night, my sides hurt from laughing so much at the show’s co-hosts WGCI’s Leon Rogers and Brian Babylon, along with featured comedians Damon Williams (of BET’s "Comic View" who also served as the opening act for the legendary Kings of Hollywood Comedy Tour), Adrienne Irmer (Perri’s darling daughter), Ali Clayton, Tony Scolfied, Ron Baker, Jr. (handsome brother of Ryan), Mitch Hurley, Erica Clark and Willie Lynch. The fun-filled night began with a VIP reception in the club’s exclusive bar area behind the main stage. Here, guests got a chance to meet the hosts and mingle with the comedians as well as enjoy a fabulous buffet. I covered the event for Candid Candace Chicago (on Watch312.com) so stay tuned for all of the evening’s fun captured on video as well as great interviews with the hosts and the many sports stars in attendance. Seen on the scene were Antoine Walker, Trista Phillips, Jason McKee, Kelley Speck, Erica Clark, Nina Chantelle, Les Coney, Alayna and DC Crenshaw, KISS-FM’s Angi Taylor and Saran Dunmore to name a few. To learn more about these wonderful charities, please visit www.israelidonije.org and www.theasapfoundation.org. Congrats Izzy and Jerry and thanks for all you do to make the world a better place. 🙂 (To see more pics from this fun-filled evening, please click here!)

Legendary Chicago Bear, 1985 Super Bowl MVP and Class of 2011 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Richard Dent was the featured guest speaker at the Union League Club reception and luncheon held on January 29th. Richard was there to discuss his book, "Blood, Sweat & Bears," written with veteran Chicago Tribune sportswriter Fred Mitchell. After lunch, Fred interviewed Richard as he recounted stories in the book and playing football for the fiercest, most dominant defense in NFL history AND playing the game before violent helmet-to-helmet tackles were forbidden. He spoke about growing up in a family with nine kids and having a mother who did whatever it took to make ends meet. Richard asked the audience, “How many of you have seen the movie, ‘The Help’? That was my mom and she made the best biscuits around.” Fred fielded questions from the crowd and as the luncheon came to a close, Richard shared this with the audience, “You are the first to know I will be carrying the Vince Lombardi trophy onto the field at Sunday’s Super Bowl game!” Two guests at the luncheon who sat with Richard and Fred at the Author’s table were Sheila Dorman (Sr. VP and COO of Northern Trust) and Margaret O’Connor (the producer of Richard’s pre-induction Hall of Fame celebration at Carnivale for 450 people). Sheila and Margaret also traveled to Canton, Ohio, for Richard’s induction into the Hall of Fame in August 2011. (Our beloved photog Steve Starr also made the trip and would be so pleased to know that his photograph of Richard’s children RJ and Shiloh and long-time girlfriend DeEtta Jones is in the book). To purchase "Blood, Sweat & Bears!", please click here!

Water is one of the most important elements on earth and an exciting new documentary, “Water Pressures,” a film that features Northwestern University students and desert villagers in water-distressed Rajasthan, India, will premiere on March 20th at the Wilmette Theater (1122 Central Ave). Produced by Artistic Circles’ Ann Feldman, the film is hosted by "Entourage" star Adrian Grenier and directed by Bill Natale (executive producer for Illinois Centers for Broadcasting and Watch312.com), who also served as the associate producer of the doc. The story demonstrates how understanding, education and collaboration can lead to sustainable solutions, particularly between developing and developed countries. Based on the relationships created by the documentary, Northwestern is now setting up a research site in the desert at the Jal Bhagirathi Foundation to study and assist with desalination and water-related diseases. “Water Pressures” premiered at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival, winning merit awards for a video for social change. It has been translated into Hindi with plans to be broadcast in India as well as on public TV stations nationwide beginning March 20. “Water Pressures” is presented by WTTW Chicago and will be nationally distributed by American Public Television. Enjoy this three-minute trailer and congrats to all involved for creating this eye-opening film!

I don’t know how many of you consult an astrologer from time to time but I have a wonderful woman who even gives readings over the phone based on your info! Jolie Evans has been in the business for a long, long time and her reading for me from last year was so precise that I just had to share her info with you! Anyone interested, please email jolieevans@live.com and tell her Candid Candace sent you! 🙂

Huge congrats to one of my very favorite makeup artists, Nicole Jacob Delehanty! She is featured in this month’s issue of Town & Country Weddings, which showcases hair and makeup pros who travel to destination weddings. Anyone lucky enough to nab Nicole will certainly look her very best on her special day! Congrats to this gorgeous, talented new mom who looks more beautiful than ever! Here are her five top tips for wedding makeup: 1.) Wear individual fake lashes, they draw attention to the eye 2.) Add shimmer to foundation for a natural luminous healthy glow, 3.) Enhance your features but don't mask your face with makeup, 4.) Bronzer is super important all the time – heathy color, and 5.) Light pink see through lip gloss is feminine and beautiful! (Unless of course you prefer Candid Candace Coral from CAMP Cosmetics, LOL!) For wedding makeup inquiries, please call Cathy at 312-961-6588 and to book appointments for makeup or brows, contact the Paul Rehder Salon at 312-943-7404.

Hef’s leading lady, Crystal Harris Hefner, is auctioning off her wedding dress from their nuptials in honor of Hef’s longtime and much-loved assistant, Mary O’Connor, who recently passed away. Given that Mary was responsible for helping H
ef and Crystal reconcile and eventually marry, Crystal has decided to put her pink, strapless, mermaid-style Romona Keveza gown up for auction along with her Aruna Seth pumps to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (This is the disease that recently claimed Mary’s life.) The auction ends February 11th. Click here to bid! What a loving gesture Crystal!

Stylish fashion designer Pamella Roland – who has been the featured designer for The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails – will be spending more time in Chicago and wants her husband Dan to stay busy! Daniel DeVos, son of billionaire Richard DeVos of Grand Rapids, Michigan, just opened a Ford Dealership west of McCormick Place at 2401 S. Michigan Ave. Since buying a home downtown, Pamella hopes to spend more time in the Windy City and we couldn't be happier to hear this good news! Welcome to Chicago, Pamella and Dan!!

More Chicagoans making a national impact include the delightful owners of Eli’s Cheesecake, Maureen and Marc Schulman: This year marks the fourth inaugural cake that Eli’s has been invited to create! Both of former President Bill Clinton’s inaugurals and President Obama’s 2009 Commander-in-Chief Ball all had giant Eli’s cheesecakes! This year’s 500-pound creation was served at the Staff Ball after Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga performed. The President, First Lady, Vice President and Second Lady were also in attendance. Maureen says, “It was a cheesecake frenzy!” The cake also appeared on the Jumbotron much to the delight of the Schulmans! Also in attendance were Eli’s executive pastry chef Laurel Boger (who decorated the big cake in the kitchen of the Washington Convention Center), Schulman daughters Haley, Kori and Elana (who all wore glam dresses and exquisite jewelry from LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, no doubt styled by its chic owner Laurie Davis). What a thrilling opportunity for this Chicago institution, Eli’s Cheesecake!! Congrats to Maureen, Marc and all the little Schulmans!

I’m so excited to be a featured speaker for Women Driving Excellence, an inaugural event at the Chicago Auto Show on February 12th. In celebration of "women who start, accelerate
, fuel and steer others to strive for excellence," MJ Tam and Beth Rosen (ChicagonistaLIVE social talk show), Monika Dixon, Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Saltzman, Saya Hillman along with the Chicago Tribune, Red Eye and Cars.com will partner to co-host this exciting event. Featured speakers/honorees include Corri McFadden (eDrop-Off founder), Genevieve Thiers (founder of Sittercity.com), Luvvie Ajayi (AwesomelyLuvvie.com), Anupa Singla (Chicago Now blogger and former CLTV news broadcaster), Karen Weigert (City of Chicago Chief Sustainability Officer) and ME! 🙂 Giveaways will be offered throughout the event and will include iPad Minis, spa services, hotel stays and many more! The day’s thrilling activities will begin at 10 a.m. – to see all details and to RSVP, please click here! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

With Sargent McCormick (2nd from R) with friends at Pump Room

I received a very unusual invite for the 108th Twelfth Night Masquerade. What the hell is this, you ask? I know, I asked myself the same question so I googled it: It turns out this is a very exclusive party (by invite only and, by this I mean only you and not your spouse or a plus-one which irritated me to no end). However, my natural curiosity got the best of me so I just had to go. From what I discovered, this event was founded in 1905 by Bill Gamble (of Procter & Gamble fame) and his high-society cohorts, who banded together to break up the doldrums of winter in Chicago by inaugurating the Widow & Widowers Ball. From the start, it was a party with an irreverent twist: Gamble and company drew up a list of all the couples in their social circles, decided which member of each couple they deemed the most fun and invited that person alone to attend the ball. By 1920, this rule was relaxed – no doubt because of the outrage from the other partner – and the name was changed to The Twelfth Night Masquerade. Billy Gamble died in 1921 but the party continues as his lasting legacy to Chicago social life. Twelfth Night has been a fixture on the Chicago social calendar for more than a century and for many remains a family tradition with current guests, their parents and even their grandparents in attendance. In order to receive an invite, you must be known to the Committee of Twelve. Oh, and the evening was also a celebration of charming Sargent McCormick’s 30th birthday. 🙂 I could only attend the pre-party cocktail get-together at the Pump Room but the party hit its zenith later with 600 guests in costume in the Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel. No press allowed…oops, there goes next year’s invite! 😉 Their motto: Let good taste prevail to no avail. Their rule: No equestrians or mounted pedestrians.

I love this event that benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug. On March 23rd, HGTV host and “hottie-with-a-heart” Dina Manzo will host the third annual Ladybug Bash to benefit Comer Children’s Hospital at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St. Tickets begin at $65 and will help raise awareness for this non-profit which aims to ease the struggles of childhood cancer. Please come out for the fun and be inspired by this great cause!

The Lyric Opera wants to take you to Paris! On February 9th, the Lyric will present the Fantasy of the Opera: Midnight in Paris. The Civic Opera house will be transformed into 1920’s Paris with the lower-level Opera Club morphing into the Moulin Rouge, the foyer and mezzanine levels will become the “Streets of Paris” with French gourmet samplings and spectacles, the Cabaret will showcase stars of the Lyric’s winter productions performing non-opera repertoire and will include singers Jamie Barton, David Cangelosi, Elizabeth Futral, Amanda Majeski, Ana Maria Martinez, Lucas Meachem, Albina Shagimuratova and Andrea Silvestrilli. Event chairman Courtney Rosen (who will be wearing a chic gown by Atelier Azza) promises this will be a very unique experience! Dance music will be provided by big band Rendezvous! For tickets, beginning at $275 and more info, please click here! Ooh la la!

Congrats to beloved cabaret star Lynne Jordan and her hot band, The Shivers! Her sell-out show, which channeled Nina Simone, was a huge hit at City Winery last month and her recent show at Davenport’s, a tribute to Janis Joplin, was also a sell-out! There's nothing this woman can’t sing and Roger Ebert said so in a recent tweet to his almost 800,000 followers! Don’t miss another show from this Chicago treasure!

The Black History Month Innovation Panel will be hosted by the Women’s Innovation Network on February 19th at the International House at the University of Chicago. Panelists will include beloved PR queen Dori Wilson (Dori Wilson Public Relations), Jetta Bates (award-winning marketing expert and creator of JettaSetting), Makeba Kedem-Dubose (artist, curator and art educator) and Dawgelene Sangster (author and founder of Think Royally Inc.). Moderator, and another Chicago treasure, will be NBC’s LeeAnn Trotter. For tickets and more info, please click here.

Dancing with Chicago Celebrities is an annual star-studded charity ball presented by Arthur Murray to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. Over the last seven years, the ball has raised more than $800K which has been donated to deserving charities who champion this cause. The 8th Annual Dancing with Chicago Celebrities will take place March 8th at the Hyatt Regency and will include beloved WGN’s Dina Bair (I’ve seen this woman dance at Newsapalooza and I hope the other competitors are rehearsing NOW!), WBBM-TV’s Pam Jones, ’06 champion Chef Rick Bayless, ’12 MVP Kim Vatis (NBC5) and ’12 champion and former Chicago Bear Desmond Clark, NBC’s Stefan Holt, WGN’s Frank Holland, ABC’s Michelle Gallardo, Miss Illinois Megan Ervin, former Chicago Bear Anthony Adams and Christina Filiaggi (WLS-AM Radio 890). For tickets and more info, please click here!

The Chicago Film Critics Association (CFCA) will celebrate its 24th annual Awards Show on February 9th at the Muvico Theaters in Rosemont, located at 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave. Nadine Velazquez and Joe Perillo will emcee and award-winning actress Jane Lynch will receive the Comedia Extraordinaire Award at 7:30 p.m. at the theater. Net proceeds will support the 2013 Emerging Film Makers Award for Columbia College Chicago film students. For tickets and more info, please click here!

I love it that Playboy glamour girl and perpetually fit Jenny McCarthy (40!), loves Chicago’s delicious Giordano’s pizza…and stuffed pie at that! In a recent cover story article in Shape Magazine, she says she gets her Windy City fix by having it shipped to LA when she craves a taste from home. She said, “There’s this place in Chicago called Giordano’s which has the best deep-dish pizza in the world. It’s my therapist, my best friend and my boyfriend on Friday nights.” I doubt that she’s ever very lonely but nice to know she loves one of Chicago’s many legendary institutions!

The Adler Planetarium will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a reception hosted by new president Dr. Michelle Larson and chairman of the board, John Estey, on February 7th. The night under the stars will begin with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. in the Adler’s Sky Pavilion followed by a program honoring featured speaker and New York Times best-selling author of “Galileo’s Daughter” Dava Sobel. Cynthia Ballew is event chair with co-chairs Nancy Temple (WB President), Linda Celesia, Caroline Becker Joss, Lisa Lewis, Erika Bartelstein, Pamela Pohl, Mihra Seta and Linda Gerstman. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.adlerplanetarium.org.)

Special thanks to the Sun-Times Splash editor, and all-around great peep, Susanna Negovan for including my CAMP Cosmetics Candid Candace lipstick in Sunday’s fab section! This color is a great cure for the winter doldrums – hope you agree and buy it here!!! (Wink wink!)

I’m so happy that Chicago’s social whirl has picked up! There's so much to do and so many great events planned! Tune into "Windy City Live" on February 25th, when I’ll share my top picks for March! 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as 8th Annual Dancing with Chicago Celebrities, Adler Planetarium, Adrian Grenier, Adrienne Irmer, Alayna Crenshaw, Albina Shagimuratova, Ali Clayton, Amanda Majeski, American Public Television, Ana Maria Martinez, Andrea Silvestrilli, Angi Taylor, Ann Feldman, Anthony Adams, Antoine Walker, Anupa Singla, Arthur Murray, Artistic Circles, Aruna Seth, Atelier Azza, Atia’s Project Ladybug, AwesomeLuvvie.com, Azumah Student Assistance Program Foundation, Barack Obama, Beth Rosen, Bill Clinton, Bill Gamble, Bill Natale, Blood Sweat & Bears, Brian Babylon, CAMP Cosmetics, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Candid Candace Coral, Carnivale, Caroline Becker Joss, Cars.com, CFCA, CharityBuzz, Chef Rick Bayless, Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Bears, Chicago Film Critics Association, Chicago South Asian Film Festival, Chicago Tribune, ChicagonistaLive, Christina Filiaggi, Columbia College Chicago, Comedia Extraordinaire Award, Comer Children’s Hospital, Committee of Twelve, Cori McFadden, Courtney Rosen, Couture & Cocktails, Crystal Harris Hefner, Cynthia Ballew, Damon Williams, Dancing With Chicago Celebrities, Daniel DeVos, Dava Sobel, David Cangelosi, Dawgelene Sangster, DC Crenshaw, Debi Lilly, DeEtta Jones, Desmond Clark, Dina Bair, Dina Manzo, Dori Wilson, Dori Wilson Public Relations, Dr. Michelle Larson, Drake Hotel, eDrop-Off, Elana Schulman, Eli's Cheesecake, Elisa All, Elizabeth Futral, Emerging Film Makers Award, Entourage, Erica Clark, Erila Bartelstein, Fantasy of the Opera: Midnight in Paris, Frank Holland, Fred Mitchel, Galileo’s Daughter, Genevieve Thiers, Giordano’s, Gold Coast Room, Haley Schulman, HGTV, Hugh Hefner, Illinois Centers for Broadcasting, India, Israel Idonije, Israel Idonije Foundation, Jal Bhagirathi Foundation, Jamie Barton, Jane Lynch, Jason McKee, Jenny McCarthy, Jerry Azumah, Jetta Bates, JettaSetting, Jill Biden, Jill Saltzman, Joe Biden, Joe Perillo, Joffrey Ballet, John Estey, Jolie Evans, Karen Weigert, Kelley Speck, Kim Vatis, Kings of Hollywood Comedy Tour, Kori Schulman, Lady Gaga, Ladybug Bash, Laugh Out Loud, Laurie Davis, LeeAnn Trotter, Leon Rogers, Les Coney, Leukemia & Lymphona Society, Linda Celesia, Linda Gerstman, Lisa Lewis, Lucas Meachem, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Luvvie Ajayi, Lynne Jordan and the Shivers, Lyric Opera, Makeba Kedem-Dubose, Marc Schulman, Margaret O’Connor, Mary O’Connor, Maureen Schulman, Michelle Gallardo, Michelle Obama, Mihra Seta, Miss Illinois Megan Ervin, Mitch Hurley, MJ Tam, Monika Dixon PR, Muvico Theaters, Nadine Velazquez, Nancy Temple, Nicole Jacob Delahanty, Nina Chantelle, Northern Trust, Northwestern University, Pam Jones, Pamela Pohl, Pamella Roland, Paul Rehder Salon, Perri Irmer, Playboy, Procter & Gamble, Pump Room, Rajastjan, Red Eye, Rendezvous, Richard Dent, Richard DeVos, Rom Baker Jr., Romona Keveza, Ryan Baker, Saran Dunmore, Sargent McCormick Collier, Saya Hillman, Shape Magazine, Sheila Dorman, Sittercity.com, Stefan Holt, Steve Starr, Sun-Times Splash, Super Bowl, Susanna Negovan, The Help, The Karate Kid, Tony Bennett, Tony Scolfield, Town & Country Weddings, Trista Phillips, Twelfth Night Masquerade, Untitled, Vince Lombardi, Water Pressures, Widow & Widowers Ball, Willie Lynch, Wilmette Theater, Windy City Live, Women Driving Excellence, Women’s Innovations Network, WTTW Chicago

January 25, 2013 · 1:04 pm

WOOD AND DEJESUS WARM UP & STRIKE A POSE!

…PLUS INAUGURATION (CELEBS & PARTIES), THODOS TURNS 21, JAN’S OSCAR SWAG, BLACK CREATIVITY GALA, TICKLED PINK, CHEEKIEST CHICKS OF 2013, EMERGE! IS ON FOR NYFW, SHELLEY’S “THING CALLED LOVE,” CHEF ART'S BIG BASH, MY TOP 2012 VIDEO MOMENTS ON WATCH312 AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was the second annual Woody’s Winter Warm-Up hosted by beloved former Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood and his beautiful wife, Sarah. I attended the inaugural event last year and it seemed to double in size this time,
which I was thrilled to see! Everyone wants to support this charitable pair and there were more than 400 guests at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier to celebrate. The line snaked down the hallway with early arrivals and you could hear the excited voices as soon as you entered the building. Trolleys had been
scheduled to bring all of the players from the Cubs Convention on Friday night to Navy Pier so there were a lot of anxious PR people working their radios – at one point, I heard that a driver
had gotten lost! The red carpet was co-hosted by two of my favorite people, Windy City Live’s Ryan Chiaverini and Whitney Reynolds (who will be hosting her own show on WTTW coming soon!). The press was out in force for this party that included sports stars past and
present, media personalities and top-notch entertainment. Emceed by radio personality Pete McMurray and TV/radio
show host Jane Monzures, the night included meet-and-greet opportunities, an open bar, dinner buffet and a raffle with ALL proceeds benefitting the Wood Family Foundation (WFF). A silent auction included sports memorabilia such as signed
jerseys from Cubs Hall of Famers Ernie Banks and Fergie Jenkins, a signed retirement flag from Banks, a Kerry Wood signed jersey, a W flag signed by players,
numerous signed baseballs (lucky collector Tom Strehle nabbed one signed by Billy Williams) and a football signed by Mike Ditka with a bottle of Ditka merlot thrown in for good measure. Guests enjoyed
musical performances by rock n’ roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason and R&B singer Gina Venier but the group that brought the house down was Chi-Town’s Finest Breakers! These five
siblings, ranging in age from 7 to 14 years old, have appeared on Ellen and Oprah and were back-up dancers for Justin Bieber. Their acrobatic skills were a sight to behold: Spinderella holds the world record for the longest head spin at
more than 15 minutes! DJ Greg Corner (an Obama favorite) started and finished the night with some eclectic tunes with a highlight of the evening
happening near the end when Cubs players signed their bartending shirts and auctioned them off to the crowd. Guests seen on the scene included Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, Matt Garza, Darwin Barney, Starlin Castro, David and Kim DeJesus, Jeff Samardzija, Travis Wood,
James Russell, Wellington Castro, Tom Ricketts, Theo Epstein, Cheryl Scott, Peggy Kusinski, Stefan Holt, Kathy Hart, Rafer Weigel, Showbiz Shelley, AJ Johnson, Megan and Lance Josh Needle, Trevor Mosvaugh, Grant
DePorter, Shawn Camp, Nick Struck, DC Crenshaw, Glaros, Nick Roach, Jody Davis, Josh Vitters, Anthony Rizzo, Tom Strehle, Daphne Ortiz, Dale, Sveum, Kelli Zink, Luis Gomez, Hannah
O’Leary, Beth Heller, Laurie Dimakos, Kate Gaddi and Tony Campana. All proceeds from the evening (more than $100K) benefitted the Wood Family Foundation, which works to improve the
lives of children in and around Chicago by raising funds and awareness for its children’s programs and other children’s charities they support. This year, Sarah announced that the organization opened the Wood Family Foundation
playroom on the oncology floor at Lurie Children’s, broke ground on Kerry Wood Cubs Field, held a free baseball clinic in Englewood, supplied more than 400 coats and toys to Nash Elementary and, for the first
time, will be sending a student to UIC on a full scholarship. I was told that near the end of the evening, Kerry even paid out of his own pocket to extend the party! I heard many other stories
this night about the generosity of the Wood family and I stand in awe. Congrats Sarah and Kerry on all of your many good works! I can’t wait to see what next year brings! To learn more about the WFF, please click here.

Good deeds seems to be the hallmark of our Chicago Cubs as outfielder David DeJesus and his wife Kim hosted more than 275 guests at the River East Arts Center on January 17th for their inaugural Strike a Pose Fashion Show benefitting
their non-profit, the David DeJesus Family Foundation. The show featured Cubs players and their wives walking the runway in fashions from the 900 North Michigan Shops, Peach Carr Designs and Two Penny Blue. NBC’s Cheryl Scott welcomed everyone before taking to the runway and host David DeJesus enlisted the help of teammate Anthony Rizzo to help announce the show. The evening raised more than
$180K to help in the fight against ALS. Kim and David presented a video
that featured their dear friend Brian Schnurstein (who was in attendance) and his personal struggle since being diagnosed with this disease. Brian’s wife, Lindsay, spoke eloquently and from the heart about the affects ALS has had on
her family. Guests enjoyed cocktails and food from some of Chicago’s hottest restaurants while listening to the sounds of DJ Kasper K. The live and silent
auctions raised about $80K and featured courtside Bulls tickets, a diamond necklace, field lessons with David DeJesus and autographed sports memorabilia. Runway VIPs included Kerry and Sarah Wood, Darwin and Lindsay Barney,
Shawn Camp, Tony Campana, Starlin Castro, Steve Clevenger, Scott Feldman, Brett Jackson, Anthony Rizzo, James Russell, Ian Stewart, Travis and Brittany Wood, Matt Garza and “The Bachelorette” winner Ed
Swiderski. VIP guests in attendance included designer Peach Carr (Project Runway Season 8 and Project Runway All Stars Season 2), Tom, Pete and Todd Ricketts, Chef Art Smith, Cubs president of operations Theo Epstein
and wife Marie Whitney (Two Penny Blue), Patrick Mannelly (Chicago Bear) and Dave Kaplan (Comcast). “It has been a longtime desire to host a charity event in our hometown of Chicago,” said David. “We felt it was only natural to make our first fundraiser dedicated to raising funds for research, patient care and family support for those suffering from ALS.” “We are excited to give ALS a voice in this city!” added Kim. For more info, visit the foundation's website. (To see ALL event pics by Hallie Duesenberg, click here!)

I was thrilled to cover so many fabulous Chicago parties last year for my Watch312.com show, "Candid Candace Chicago." I hope you enjoy some of my favorite moments below! 🙂

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?embedCode=BrYTlwODrrr0V6gmZixZIvLSSsdXOnG4&height=360&videoPcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=490

Celebrity Chef Art Smith hosted a late night Chef’s Ball at his hot Washington, D.C. restaurant, Art & Soul (located in The Liaison Capitol Hill Affinia Hotel) on January 19th to
celebrate President Obama’s inauguration with Washingtonians, visitors, friends and the D.C. restaurant community in attendance. (Executive Chef Wes Morton co-chaired the Ball with
Art). A portion of the proceeds from the evening benefitted Common Threads, a non-profit founded by Art and partner Jesus Salguiero that helps low-income children understand the
importance of nutrition and physical well-being. Five additional D.C. chefs prepared late night bites for the event, as well, with some of the proceeds also benefitting their charities of choice. They included Erik Bruner-Yang (chef/owner Toki Underground), Scott
Drewno (executive chef The Source), Todd Gray (co-owner/chef Equinox Restaurant), Rock Harper
(Hell’s Kitchen Season 3 winner and director of Kitchen Operations, D.C. Central Kitchen) and Mike Isabella (Top Chef All-Stars finalist and chef/owner Graffiato, Kapnos and G). “Washington, D.C. is a burgeoning food town and when Americans
visit our nation’s capital they should expect to eat well and party well into the morning,” said Chef Art Smith. “I’ve invited some of the most talented chefs I know in D.C. to help host a ball that chefs and foodies can enjoy while raising funds for their charities and showcasing some of the best food D.C. has to offer!” (Don’t miss Art and Jesus’ next BIG Chicago event, World Festival, on March 4th – details here!)

More inaugural party news with Oscar winner Jamie Foxx and rapper will.I.Am kicking off the Hennessy V.S Inauguration Takeover at the swanky Park at 14th in
Washington, D.C. Foxx took over the event performing for more than two hours and brought the packed house down as he sang several songs from his catalog including “Unpredictable” and
“Blame It” as well as popular songs that included “All Gold Everything” by Trinidad James and A$AP Rocky's hit song “F*ckin' Problems.” will.I.Am also performed with NY Giants
superstar Victor Cruz and radio personality Big Tigger. Foxx got a chance to visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial and said, “Please know that we're living in spectacular times for
African Americans.” He also gave a shout-out to his "Django Unchained" co-stars and shared these thoughts: “Thank you for your support of this film. Every day on the set, I thought of you and how you would enjoy this film. The only thing that mattered after we did that movie was if black folks liked it. It was about respecting you guys.” (Photos courtesy of Jeff Dormeus.)

Don’t miss the exciting Thodos Dance Company’s 21st anniversary gala, 21 Club, at the Chicago Cultural Center on Saturday, February 2nd. TDC founder/artistic director Melissa Thodos and Tony Award-winning Broadway star and frequent TDC collaborator Ann Reinking will preview their latest creative collaboration A Light in the Dark, the
story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan. NBC 5 news anchor Kim Vatis will emcee this special evening that will be themed to New York’s historic restaurant and prohibition-era speakeasy, the 21 Club. Co-chaired by Reinking and guest artist Gary Chryst, the gala will be capped off with a performance by the Thodos Dance Chicago Youth Ensemble. For tickets, $275, and more info, please click here or call 312.266.6255.

HUGE congrats to Jan Lewis, wife of legendary jazz man Ramsey Lewis: Her beautiful jewelry has been selected for inclusion in the prestigious Everybody Wins at the Oscars Nominee Bag! The
unique, eye catching, hand crafted Fair Trade bangles will be hand delivered the morning after the Oscars telecast to all of the nominees and host Seth MacFarlane. “I started this business focused only on creating a new line, a new
look, for discriminating women who appreciate unique, moderately priced jewelry,” Ms. Lewis said. “My focus was also on Fair Trade. Each bangle is a one-of-a-kind piece and all of our jewelry is individually hand crafted by our artists in India who are paid a fair wage.”

I hope to see you at Saturday (1/26) night’s 30th annual Black Creativity Gala at the Museum of Science and Industry! Honorary gala co-chairs are the Honorable Anne Burke, AARP’s Merri Dee and Northern Trust Bank’s Connie Lindsey. The night will include a juried exhibition of more than 100 pieces of artwork by African-
American artists from around the country. The evening’s proceeds will support the museum’s Black Creativity Program. For tickets ($350), contact Octavia Hooks at 773.947.3729 or visit www.msichicago.org.

Tickled Pink, one of the hottest parties for a great cause, returns to the River East Art Center on February 8th. This event was founded in 2005 after Carrie Kenney lost her seven-year battle with breast cancer the year before at the age of 35. Her cousin Jodi Fyfe gathered a group of close friends and colleagues to start Tickled Pink Chicago in honor of Carrie. For tickets ($95) and more info, please click here!

And now, The Joffrey Ballet’s Women’s Board presents something special for Valentine’s Day! Chicago’s own Shelley MacArthur will star in a benefit performance called “What is This Thing Called Love?” on February 14th (of course!) at the Murphy Auditorium, located at 50 E. Erie St. A lavish pre-performance cocktail
reception begins at 6 p.m. followed by a 7:15 p.m. show. Shelley’s special guests include Rodrick Dixon and Alfreda Burke with orchestration by The City Lights Orchestra conducted by Rich Daniels. For tickets ($350) and more info, please email love@joffrey.org or call 312.386.8921. Hope to see YOU there!

Congrats to all of the deserving Cheeky Chicks of 2013!! At a recent party at PUBLIC Hotel, honorees included Megan Chappell (founder of TruHarmony Yoga), Monika Dixon (prez of Monika Dixon PR), Meg Galus (exec pastry chef of NoMI Kitchen), Coco Meers (founder of PrettyQuick.com), Laura Modica (nightlife director at
PUBLIC Hotel), Shannon O’Brien (freelance makeup artist), Brittney Payton (host of “Chicago’s Best”); Lindsay Segal (co-founder of Luxury Garage Sale), Laura Schwartz (political correspondent and author) and Jenna Zielbauer (founder of Cotton Candy Couture). I also loved the fab write-up in the Sun-Times that featured CheekyChicago.com founders Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin! Woot woot!

Emerge!, the fashion collective showcasing local talent, returns during New York Fashion Week on February 12th! Produced and founded by Dionne Williams, this year’s Emerge! designers will include Parul Aneja (Gorgeous Ways), Deidre Jefferies (Espion Atelier), Bernice Morgan (Designersberg) and C. ‘Butterfli Tia’ Dunkley. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6 p.m. with the show and Innovator Award Ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. at the Broad Street Ballroom, located at 41 Broad St. in NYC. For more info, please call 312.243.9060, email Dionne@dwilliamspr.com or visit www.dwilliamspr.com.

A first!!!! I had such a thrill designing my very own handbag at the hot Lincoln Park store Laudi Vidni at 1007 W. Armitage! Co-founder Laura Kofoid approached me a while back and we finally had a chance to
meet over a design concept. Their philosophy empowers women to be their own brand, think outside the logo and gives them the opportunity to design high-quality leather handbags that reflect their own tastes and needs, not those of someone else. With more than 40
imported leathers to choose from and 10,000+ possible style combos, it was a daunting task but I can’t wait to share my design concept with you – I think it will be THE perfect clutch! An in-store celebration is planned to introduce my bag to the public so I hope you can join me! Details to follow! “We
believe fashion is limitless and the only ‘rule’ that should be followed is one that says do what you like,” said Kofoid. AMEN!

I’ll be returning to “Windy City Live” on February 25th to share some of my TOP parties for the month of March! I hope you will tune in and check out some of Chicago’s hottest happenings!

Loved the inauguration and loved seeing all of the cool fashions, especially on this glam pair! Hope you’re enjoying January and I hope to see you next week!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you or someone you know is interested in a career in television, radio, production, broadcasting or emerging media, check out the Illinois Centers for Broadcasting! I’m so exciting to be conducting a seminar at the Chicago campus on February 9th on entertainment reporting! During my video presentation using clips from my past shows, I'll share my dos and don’ts of the interview process with some of the top movie stars in the world! Sign up and see! (You must be an enrolled student). Hope to see you there!

1 Comment

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

Tagged as 21 Club, 900 North Michigan Shops, A Light in the Fark the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, AJ Johnson, Alfreda Burke, Ann Reinking, Anne Burke, Anthony Rizzo, Art & Soul, Bernice Morgan, Beth Heller, Beyonce, Big Tigger, Billy Williams, Black Creativity Gala, Brett Jackson, Brian Schnurstein, Brittany Wood, Brittney Payton, C. Butterflu Tia Dunkley, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carrie Kenney, Cheeky Chicks of 2013, CheekyChicago.com, Chef Art Smith, Chef Wes Morton, Cheryl Scott, Chi-Town Finest Breakers, Chicago’s Best, Coco Meers, Common Threads, Connie Lindsey, Cotton Candy Couture, D.C. Central Kitchen, Dale Sveum, Daphne Ortiz, Darwin Barney, Dave Kaplan, Dave Mason, David DeJesus, DC Crenshaw, Deidre Jefferies, Designersberg, Dionne Williams, DJ Greg Corner, DJ Kasper K, Django Unchained, Ed Swiderski, Ellen Degeneres, Emerge!, Equinox Restaurant, Erica Bethe Levin, Erik Bruner-Yang, Ernie Banks, ESPION Atelier, Everybody Wins at the Oscars, Fergie Jenkins, G, Gary Chryst, Gina Venier, Gorgeous Ways, Graffiato, Grant DePorter, Hannah O’Leary, Harry Caray’s Tavern, Hell’s Kitchen, Hennessy V.S Inauguration Takeover, Ian Stewart, Illinois Centers for Broadcasting, James Russell, Jamie Foxx, Jan Lewis, Jane Monzures, Jay-Z, Jeff Dormeus, Jeff Samardzija, Jenna Zielbauer, Jessica Zweig, Jesus Salguiero, Jodi Fyfe, Jody Davis, Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board, Josh Vitters, Justin Bieber, Kapnos, Kate Gaddi, Kathy Hart, Kelli Zink, Kerry Wood, Kim DeJesus, Kim Vatis, Lance Josh Needle, Laudi Vidni, Laura Kofoid, Laura Modica, Laura Schwartz, Laurie Dimakos, Lindsay Schnurstein, Lindsay Segal, Luis Gomez, Luxury Garage Sale, Marie Whitney, Martin Luther King Jr., Matt Garza, Meg Galus, Megan Chappel, Megan Needle, Melissa Thodos, Merri Dee, Mike Ditka, Mike Isabella, Monika Dixon, Monika Dixon PR, New York Fashion Week, Nick Roach, Nick Struck, NoMI Kitchen, NY Giants, Oprah Winfrey, Parul Aneja, Patrick Mannelly, Peach Carr Designs, Peggy Kusinski, Pete McMurray, Pete Ricketts, President Obama, PrettyQuick.com, Project Runway, PUBLIC Hotel, Rafer Weigel, Ramsey Lewis, Rich Daniels, Rock Harper, Rodrick Dixon, Ryan Chiaverini, Sarah Wood, Scott Drewno, Scott Feldman, Seth MacFarlane, Shannon O’Brien, Shawn Camp, Shelley MacArthur, Showbiz Shelley, Spinderella, Starlin Castro, Stefan Holt, Steve Clevenger, Strike a Pose Foundation, The City Lights Orchestra, The Source, Theo Epstein, Thodos Dance Chicago Youth Ensemble, Thodos Dance Company, Tickled Pink, Tickled Pink Chicago, Todd Gray, Todd Ricketts, Toki Underground, Tom Ricketts, Tom Strehle, Tony Campana, Top Chef All-Stars, Travis Wood, Trevor Mosvaugh, TruHarmony Yoga, Two Penny Blue, Victor Cruz, Wellington Castro, What is This Thing Called Love, Whitney Reynolds, will.I.Am, Windy City Live, Wood Family Foundation, Woody’s Winter Warm-Up, World Festival

November 9, 2012 · 10:36 am

DOMINIC DIFRISCO: BELOVED HUMAN RIGHTS CHAMPION GETS HIS “WAY”

…PLUS MCGRATH’S GRAND OPENING, CHICAGO LOOP ALLIANCE GALA, COLUMBIAN BALL CELEBRATES OLD AND NEW, TCW MAG’S HALLOWEEN BASH, CHEF ART “TARTS IT UP” FOR ERIC, STEVE STARR’S “FACE OF THE NEWS,” WCIU’S “YOU & ME IN THE MORNING” IS MOVIN’ ON UP, A PERFECT HOLIDAY E-MAG PLUS NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a great day in Chicago on Saturday, November 3rd when beloved Dominic DiFrisco, a champion of Italian-Americans and a cultural torch bearer, was honored with his own street! More than 60 fans, friends and family congregated at the corner of Astor and Schiller to join Dominic, his wife Carol, daughter and son-in-law Nina and Bob Mariano, and Alderwoman Michelle Smith as she unveiled “Honorary Dominic DiFrisco Way.” The Alderman read Dominic's extensive bio and cited how he's been a bridge builder in Chicago for not only the Italian-American community but for all ethnic and religious communities. Dominic is president emeritus of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans – an organization founded on the principle that Italian-Americans and Americans from all backgrounds should be able to preserve their heritage – while also pursuing the American Dream without prejudice. Dominic spoke eloquently about his goal for Chicago to be a beautiful mosaic and not a melting pot. Monsignor Kenneth Velo and Father George Clements were on hand and spoke of Dominic's many social and civic efforts while his grandson Pasquale Gianni brought the crowd to tears with his tribute. The party moved on to Gene & Georgetti’s for a two-hour love fest and Italian feast! Friends on the scene included Marion and Tony Durpetti, Terry “Whitey” Pearson, Jamie and Tess Gabala, Mark O’Malley and so many others. It was a fitting day for a man who makes a difference. Love and congrats, Dominic…keep up the GREAT work! (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

McGrath Acura of Downtown Chicago’s by-invite-only grand opening on October 24th brought out hundreds of fans and friends to this magnificent dealership, seven years in the making. You could see this 50,000-square-foot space for miles before you actually arrived thanks to the ginormous rotating Hollywood lights out front! Inside, it was so beautiful that even if it wasn’t a dealership, it could easily double as an event space or grand art gallery; in fact, the first event held there was for the Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails,” which McGrath Acura co-owner Kristina McGrath also co-chaired. During the festivities, speed painter Elliott From of Artbeat Live created an impressionist painting of the dealership that was presented to the family. Co-owner Mike McGrath’s sons, Kevin and Mike Jr., were on hand with their families as well as glam wife Kristina and her equally gorgeous twin sister, Korinna Isselhardt. Hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Dan Uslan and produced by Platinum Events, the grand opening was planned as a way to thank their loyal customers that have been doing business with the family’s six other dealerships over the course of the past 62 years. Key executives from Honda were in attendance as well as McGrath Executive VP of Sales John Mendel and GM of Westmont McGrath Acura Ken Girard. Glen Missner (Missner Group) built the dealership, the first of its kind in the country using the newest designs from Acura and state-of-the-art technology. Michigan Avenue Magazine president and publisher Dan Uslan paid tribute to the McGraths in a moving speech which highlighted their importance in the community. He said, “Trust takes many forms. Few people can say they unilaterally trust someone. The same person you trust in business is not necessarily the same one you'd trust with your money, spouse or reputation. But the McGraths are those rare people that you can feel good about trusting in every way. They've created a personal brand for themselves and business that's enviable. Their reward has been loyalty amongst their friends, business partners and customers. Others want to do right by them simply because the McGraths are so genuine.” Located at 1301 N. Elston and situated on the river, the dealership has hundreds of new Acuras, pre-owned and certified vehicles, many of which were artfully displayed on this special night. Guests seen at this gala celebration included Justin Jacobson, Paul Iacono, Margaret O’Connor, Nina Mariano, Kerry Bowler, Jennifer Sutton, Heather Farley Ingram, Toni and Rick Canada, DC Crenshaw, Larry Wert, Marco Foster, Tonya and Adam Stevenson, Grace and Zack Napolitano, Toni and Ed Mallof and Lynn and John McMahan among many others. Congrats to the McGraths and their dedicated employees! When I do the math, I always choose McGrath!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=640&height=360&embedCode=Q0OTBwNjrbiNiXrqzgp7h83xOjqMisyq&videoPcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

The Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation welcomed more than 425 guests, including prominent business and civic leaders, for its Eighth Annual Gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on Friday, October 12th. Guests at the elegant black tie event enjoyed a cocktail reception with live music by Oncore Productions, followed by a lavish dinner catered by Radisson Blu. Special remarks were given by Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) chairman Martin Stern, who welcomed guests and thanked them for continued support of the Foundation’s programs, which include the award-winning Pop-Up Art Loop storefront gallery initiative and annual Art Loop public art commission. The fun continued into the evening as guests filled the dance floor and enjoyed live music by Hey Jimmy! The gala co-chairs were Turner Construction Company business development manager Bill Burfeind, Chicago magazine publisher and GM Rich Gamble, Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University chief development officer Judie Moore Green and Merchandise Mart Properties VP and GM Bill Noonan. Additional distinguished guests at the event included 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, Chicago Department of Transportation commissioner Gabe Klein, Broadway in Chicago president and CLA vice-chairman Lou Raizin, Choose Chicago VP for cultural tourism and neighborhoods Melissa Cherry, Pressure Washing Systems president and founder Bill Mologousis, and CLA interim executive director Laura Jones. Lead sponsors for the Eighth Annual Gala were Presenting Sponsor Pressure Washing Systems and Silver Table Patrons BMO Harris Bank, Columbia College Chicago, Gensler, theWit Hotel and Turner Construction Company. The event raised more than $175,000 in support of the Foundation and its ambitious efforts to develop and promote artistic, cultural and public events wit
hin the Loop. (And speaking of the Chicago Loop Alliance, huge thanks to Philip Barash (CLA Director of Marketing and Development) for choosing me to record the holiday greetings for its “Lightscape” installations on State Street! Listen for a familiar voice on that great street beginning November 24th ! 🙂 Ho! Ho! Ho! (To view more images, please click here!)

On Saturday, October 20th, the Museum of Science and Industry held its 32nd annual Columbian Ball. From the fascination of the famed White City of 1893 to groundbreaking, high-tech exhibits, this year’s ball celebrated the spirit of innovation that has always been within the museum’s walls and part of its rich history. Nearly 900 guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dancing co-chaired by Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin and Christina and Ron Gidwitz. Mayor Rahm Emanuel was also an honorary co-chair of the ball. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the co-chairs and – a special addition this year – by the Anybot QB2, a remote-controlled robot. The décor took guests back to the Columbian Exposition with lights strung between the museum’s balcony levels and historic images of the museum from the fair projected on the massive marble walls, giving the rotunda a spectacular glow. An acrobatic artist spun and twirled from a sheet of silk hanging from the ceiling. The museum’s Science Storms exhibit was open throughout the evening for guests to enjoy. In the museum’s Rosenwald Court, novelties from the fair (including two large paintings and a six-foot-tall vase) from the museum’s collection were displayed. A virtual tour took guests through the fair’s grounds and various buildings. On the adjacent side, technology ruled with current and future innovations featured. Guests interacted with robots (like the Anybot QB2 and NAO) and since spray paint was invented during the fair, guests paid homage to the invention by expressing their creativity on a “digital graffiti” wall. The party then adjourned to a heated tent on the museum’s front lawn (courtesy of Party Time Productions) with event décor by Heffernan Morgan Ronsley. Tables were adorned with camellias and white roses with historic images of the Museum projected on white, fabric sculptures. A live auction raised $242K, which included eight exciting packages including a deep sea diving expedition in Hawaii with world-renowned marine engineer, Graham Hawkes. The ball raised more than $2.2 million to support the museum’s vision. The evening ended with entertainment provided by the Steve Biossat Orchestra. For more info about the Museum and upcoming events, please visit www.msichicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl and JB Spector…click here for more pics!)

Can you imagine how much fun a costume party would be if you saw Grant DePorter dressed as Harry Caray, Sherren Leigh as a witch, Corri McFadden as a skeleton, Bob Graham as the Joker, Cindy Burns as Cleopatra, Shari Duffy as a Hooters girl and Paul Iacono as a mime?! Well, this was exactly the scene for TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Party at the Cultural Center on October 30th. The “Pumpkins on Parade” silent auction was a huge hit with highly creative offerings from some of our town’s VIP’s including Barbara Bates, author Brad Thor, Grant DePorter, artist Rosemary Fanti, Cassandra Gaddo, Greg Hyder, Mellody Hobson, Sherren, RJ Melman, Corri McFadden, Andrea Metcalf, Roe Conn and Richard Roeper, Chef Devon Quinn, Hedy Ratner, Laura Sage, Tim Smithe, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Mario Tricoci, Rich Varnes, Maria Wynne and moi. (My funkins were courtesy of my uber creative girlfriend, Tissy Eggleston!) Catered by Paramount Events, the evening also included delicious mini white cheddar cheese/fig jam sandwiches, lobster salad on cornbread and seared tuna on a wonton crisps. Comfort food stations included hot dogs, BLT’s and meatloaf sandwiches and the “skull” cake donated by TipsyCake was a crowd favorite. More than 200 guests attended this spooky fundraiser that raised a little over $45,000 for the Today's Chicago Woman Foundation 501(c)(3) charity and its 2012 30 For 30 Campaign. TCWF will give grants to 30 area charities that assist women and children in need. (The 30 charities will be featured in the 2012 December issue.) Spooktacular guests included Cece Gonzalez and Melinda Joseph, Kathleen Henson, Carrie and Harry Hightman, Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steven Stryker, Maria Zec, Erica Strama, Ryan Beshel, Jason Erkes, Holly Hughes, Amanda Puck, Rich Varnes, WGN’s Erin McElroy, Bill Shipley and Frank Holland among many others. (Check out more fun pics here!)

And speaking of Halloween, there is nothing like a party in Old Town and, particularly, there is nothing quite like a party at Lucy Wojtas and Steve Weiss’ house! Their home is the talk of the town and it’s decorated inside and outside for Halloween, much to the delight of their constant parade of trick-or-treaters! For the party, hostess Lucy was dressed as Elvis…complete with a white cape, oversized sunglasses, a huge “diamond” ring and, of course, a microphone that never left her hand. She stayed in character for the entire evening and made the night so special for everyone, especially her adoring husband. Her sister, Christina Wojtas, came dressed as a little devil, my stepson, Charley Jordan, made a mean looking Dexter (complete with bloody face, garden boots and a BIG knife) and John Waterfield was unrecognizable as a six-foot Sasquatch. Seen on this boo-tiful night were author Shirley Baugher and husband Norman, Carolyn Armenetta-Davis, Lucy and Dan Baldwin, Shannon Waterfield, Michael Warnick, Todd Humes, Alan Naragon, Karen Pfendler, David Pfendler and Stefani Turken, Mary O’Neill, Karen Stephenson, Chloe Mae Loop and so many more! Thanks so much to the Weisses for keeping our ‘hood so festive! (Click here to view more pics!)

More than 600 guests gathered for an inspirational afternoon at Chicago House’s 4th Annual Speaker Series Luncheon at the Chicago Hilton Hotel on November 2nd. In a 30-minute keynote address to the crowd, Kenneth Cole recounted his unique entry into the fashion world, selling shoes out of a trailer in mid-town Manhattan. His advocacy and trailblazing efforts in the global fight against AIDS are what attracted Chicago House to him. VIP guests included ABC’s Sylvia Perez and Linda Yu, Project Runway Season 2 contestant Steven Rosengard, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, Macy’s Media Relations VP Andrea Schwartz, Glossed & Found’s Graham Kostic, local designers Borris Powell and Horacio Nieto and American Airlines’ Mary Francis Fagan, among many others. Special Events Manager for Chicago House Jeremy Hilborn said, “The 2012 Speaker Series was our most successful yet. Kenneth Cole was the perfect addition to the growing list of unique speakers who have lent their voice to further validate Chicago House’s important work. We are proud to have raised such significant funds for our programs, but even more proud to shed light on important issues at an event which hopefully serves as a catalyst for discussion and change.”(Chicago House provides permanent, community-based housing, supportive services, and prevention outreach to individuals and families struggling with HIV and AIDS). Guests left with swag bags from Room & Board, featuring sweet treats from Sweet Miss Giving’s, Little Miss Muffin, and Cheshire Cat Confectionary. For more information, visit www.chicagohouse.org. (Photos by Steve Starr…see more here!)

You CANNOT MISS beloved photog Steve Starr’s upcoming “Face of the News” celebration on 12/12/12 at the John B. Murphy Auditorium, located at 50 E. Erie! Celebrity photog, author and collector, Steve is celebrating his 45th anniversary of Steve Starr Studios with an elaborate photo exhibition/party of broadcasters, publishers, columnists, writers, journalists, entertainment news reporters and producers. This grand night celebrating the media (and Steve!) will showcase more than 400 framed images and will begin with a VIP “News Hour” reception followed by the opening at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by lovable entertainment reporter Bill Zwecker, the night will include tasty bites from local restaurants as well as a few surprises! (A portion of the proceeds will support CPJ – the Committee to Protect Journalists.) For tickets and more info, please visit click here!

HUGE congrats to beloved author/pastry Chef Eric Lanlard on the publication of his latest book, “Tart It Up”! Chef Art Smith and partner Jesus Salgueiro feted him recently at a delightful brunch at their house that featured scrambled eggs with white truffles they dug on their recent trip to Tuscany. Other delicious offerings included Benton Ham of Tennessee with biscuits, Art’s homemade cinnamon rolls, Eleven City Diner’s red velvet cake and assorted tarts from Eric’s book. A Perfect Event’s Debi Lilly made it all look, well, perfect! Congrats Eric and we hope to see you back in town soon! (Purchase Eric’s delightful book here and to see ALL the party pics, click here!)

Thank you so much to WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” for having me on a segment recently! I love this show and darling co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow – I don’t have a clue as to how they get up so early, look so good and remain so perky every single day! Thanks also to senior producer Rob Morhaim for including me! (Ratings for this popular show have been steadily climbing and on the day I was there, the show beat out CBS2 News, Fox32 and Mancow on Power! Woot woot! Power to the U!) If you want to see my segment, watch here and make sure to tune in to Channel 26 from 6 to 8 a.m. every weekday!

Don’t forget to check out the BEAUTIFUL holiday issue of A Perfect Event’s E-Magazine! Debi Lilly has done it again in her glorious second issue! Love the mag, love the contributors and love, Love, LOVE the images! A visual feast throughout! Congrats to Debi and all involved! (And make sure to turn to page 246 for my little article on Christmas!)

Well, that’s the news for this week and I hope you’ve enjoyed it! Please subscribe to Candid Candace – both here, on Facebook and Twitter (if you want!) – and I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful weekend!!!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as 30 for 30 Campaign, A Perfect Event, Adam Stevenson, Alan Naragon, Alderwoman Michelle Smith, Amanda Puck, Andrea Metcalf, Andrea Schwartz, Anita Alvarez, Anybot QB2, Artbeat Live, Barbara Bates, Bill Burfeind, Bill Mologousis, Bill Noonan, Bill Shipley, Bill Zwecker, BMO Harris Bank, Bob Carl, Bob Graham, Bob Mariano, Borris Powell, Brad Thor, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol DiFrisco, Carolyn Armenetta-Davis, Carrie Hightman, Cassandra Gaddo, Cece Gonzalez, Charley Jordan, Chef Art Smith, Chef Eric Lanlard, Cheshire Cat Confectionary, Chicago House’s Speaker Series Luncheon, Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation, Chicago magazine, Chloe Mae Loop, Christina Gidwitz, Christina Wojtas, Cindy Burns, Columbia College Chicago, Columbian Ball, Committee to Protect Journalists, Corri McFadden, Dan Baldwin, Dan Uslan, David Pfendler, DC Crenshaw, Debi Lilly, Dominic DiFrisco, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Steven Stryker, Ed Mallof, Elliot From, Erica Strama, Erin McElroy, Face of the News, Father George Clements, Frank Holland, Gabe Klein, Gene & Georgetti’s, Gensler, Glen Missner, Glossed & Found Graham Kostic, Grace Napolitano, Graham Hawkes, Grant DePorter, Greg Hyder, Harry Hightman, Heather Farley Ingram, Heffernan Morgan Ronsley, Hey Jimmy!, Holly Hughes, Honorary Dominic DiFrisco Way, Horacio Nieto, Jamie Gabala, Jason Erkes, JB Spector, Jeanne Sparrow, Jennifer Sutton, Jeremy Hilborn, Jesus Salgueiro, John McMahan, John Mendel, John Waterfield, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Judie Moore Green, Justin Jacobson, Karen Pfendler, Karen Stephenson, Kathleen Henson, Ken Girard, Kenneth Cole, Kerry Bowler, Kevin McGrath, Korinna Isselhardt, Kristina McGrath, Larry Wert, Laura Jones, Laura Sage, Linda Yu, Lisa Aronin, Little Miss Muffin, Lou Raizin, Lucy Baldwin, Lucy Wojtas, Lynn McMahan, Marco Foster, Margaret O’Connor, Maria Wynne, Maria Zec, Mario Tricoci, Marion Durpetti, Mark O'Malley, Martin Stern, Mary Francis Fagan, Mary O’Neill, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, McGrath Acura of Downtown Chicago, Melinda Joseph, Melissa Cherry, Melissa Forman, Melllody Hobson, Michael Warnick, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike McGrath, Mike McGrath Jr., Mila Samokhina, Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Museum of Science and Industry, Nina Mariano, Norman Baugher, Oncore Productions, Paramount Events, Party Time Productions, Pasquale Gianni, Paul Iacono, Philip Barash, Platinum Events, Pressure Washing Systems, Project Runway, Pumpkins on Parade, Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Rich Varnes, Richard Roeper, Rick Canada, RJ Melman, Rob Morhaim, Robert Fioretti, Roe Conn, Ron Gidwitz, Room & Board, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Shannon Waterfield, Shari Duffy, Sherren Leigh, Shirley Baugher, Stefani Turken, Steve Biossat Orchestra, Steve Starr, Steve Weiss, Steven Rosengard, Sweet Miss Giving’s, Sylvia Perez, Tart It Up, TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Party, Tess Gabala, theWit Hotel, Tim Smithe, TipsyCake, Tissy Eggleston, Today’s Chicago Woman Foundation, Todd Humes, Toni Canada, Toni Mallof, Tony Durpetti, Tonya Stevenson, Turner Construction Company, WCIU, Whitey Pearson, You & Me in the Morning, Zack Napolitano

November 2, 2012 · 8:47 am

SUSAN G. KOMEN CHICAGO GALA HONORS PINK TIE GUYS!

…PLUS NEXT FASHION CHICAGO’S FAB LOCAL DESIGNERS STRUT FOR PAWS, LUX MGT’S MAISON DE LACOUR SHOW, POTUS AND LITTLE FRIEND, RMHC’S FUN FUNDRAISERS, PAUL STUART’S PHINEAS COLE PARTY, NATE AND THE BIEBS ATTRACT CROWDS, MARTINIS & MISTLETOE, LUXURY GARAGE SALE’S GRAND OPENING, CONGRATS ARE IN ORDER, A WONDERFUL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Tribune Media Group reaffirmed its fight to help end breast cancer by hosting the second annual Pink Tie Gala (themed “Mission Possible”) at Riverfront Theater on Friday, October 19th, benefitting Susan G. Komen Chicago. The event saluted the 2013 class of Komen Chicago Pink Tie Guys and I had the honor of co-hosting with WGN’s Dina Bair. The night’s selection included eleven male influencers who are making a difference in
this battle against breast cancer. These men were nominated by the community and selected by the Komen Chicagoland Board of Directors and represent a wide range of male leaders who live in the Chicagoland area and have a personal connection to breast cancer, a dedication to philanthropy and who help bring awareness to the cause. This illustrious group of men included everybody’s favorite host Ryan Chiaverini from “Windy City Live”, Chicago Public Health Dept. Commissioner Dr. Bechara Choucair, 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, Imerman Angels founder Jonny Imerman (Jonny is a young adult cancer survivor who, after being diagnosed at age 26, founded the organization to carefully match a cancer fighter with someone who has already triumphed over the disease), Victor LaGroon (Manager of the Community Engagement, Cancer Disparities Program at the University of Illinois at Chicago Cancer Center), Jim Logothetis (senior client service partner for Ernst & Young), Reverend Percy W. McCray (Director of Pastoral Care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Midwestern Regional Medical Center), Wade Miquelon (EVP, CFO and President of International for Walgreen’s) and Dr. Steven Rosen (director Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern University); VP/GM of the Chicago Blackhawks Stan Bowman and former mayor Richard Daley (honorary chairman) who couldn’t attend this night. Brotha Fred emceed the evening and thanked sponsors Lexus, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Wintrust Community Bank and Walgreen’s. (Walgreen’s Wade Miquelon announced a $25K donation that night for Susan G. Komen.) Dina Bair shared her inspiring story as a two-time cancer survivor and mother of four and then introduced a touching video of Bridget Spence, who has stage four breast cancer. Other speakers included Komen Chicago’s Executive Director Michael Ziener and the Chicago Tribune’s John O’Neil. “We are honored to have these outstanding leaders in the Chicagoland community working with us to fulfill our mission of a world without breast cancer. While traditionally a woman’s disease, the reality is, men can get breast cancer, too,” said Zeiner. With more than 300 attendees, this event also included fabulous portraits by Rosemary Fanti, a silent auction, a Heads or Tails game, an ActionBooth, a nail booth courtesy of Walgreen’s, tasty bites from Paris Club (delicious pumpkin soup with lobster and chestnuts!), Mitchell’s Soda Shop and decadent chocolates from Truffle, Truffle. Susan G. Komen Chicago has been in existence for more than 15 years and, to date, the organization has invested more than $12 million funding local non-profits that provide lifesaving services to uninsured and underinsured women in the Chicagoland area. Proceeds ($50K) from the Pink Tie Gala will go back into the community to support low income women for breast cancer screening, education, treatment and support. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes. To learn more or to donate, please visit www.KomenChicago.org. (Fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins…see more here!)

Germania Place was filled to bursting on October 16th with more than 400 of our town's most stylish for the NEXT Fashion Chicago show that featured some of our top designers and boutiques. The show kicked off at 8:30 p.m., after NBC's Marcus Riley and I welcomed the crowd. The lights dimmed, the music pumped up and a Grace Kelly (esque) model wearing a Mark Roscoe-designed magenta cocktail dress hit the runway in dark glasses and an upswept 'do. The show featured everything from couture to casual, elegant to edgy and everything in-between including a clever segment spotlighting custom hand-painted stiletto boots from Just Human by Yemonja Smalls worn by models dressed in black unitards. Midway through the show, a moving video presentation showcased the work of PAWS Chicago and the animals available for adoption; this was followed by a special runway walk featuring adoptable dogs and rescued pups wearing their signature yellow kerchiefs as well as ties and coats provided by Barker & Meowsky and Tanner & Dash. PAWS volunteers as well as board members stole the show with their four-legged friends: Participating designers and boutiques included Mark Roscoe Designs, Gary Gonzalez, Just Human (designer Yemonja Smalls), Akira (owner Jon Cotay), Sahar Dada, Cleon’s Clothing Co., Studio Alade (designer Funkside Eniola), Meekis, Contessa Bottega (owner Contessa Helena), Cory Tran, Fraley Le and Mira Couture. This event was produced by Rose Mandel (Mandel Productions) with Associate Producer Marco Foster with PR support and so much more from Margaret O'Connor (Marcon Communications). A dynamic host committee featured some of our town's most notables such as Rosemary Fanti, Corri McFadden, Toni Canada, DC Crenshaw, Ava Anthony, Emma Arnold, Deborah Brown, Cindy Burns, Julie Lampert, Rita George, Lynn McMahan, Katie McLenaghan, Paul Iacono, Micah Materre, Jennifer Sutton, Alicia Roman, Kelli Zink, Billy Dec, Jessica Zweig, Erica Bethe Levin, Jon Cotay, Tyrone Farley, Deborah Goodman, Attila Gyulai, Zingha Hester, Catie Keogh, Michi Marshall, Kristina McGrath, Kerry Shorr, Sally Shorr, Crystal Peters, Arabel Alva Rosales and Sherren Leigh. Special thanks Nevena Zee and Tania Gilbert (artistic directors Custom Hair Lounge & Spa), Brenda Arelano (makeup team artistic director), Joseph and Shawna House (fashion show stylists), Siamonto Etian (Sounds AVL), Laura Bee (soundtrack engineer and event DJ), Robert Sivek (set design), Alison Libby (fashion show video), Paul Latza (videographer) and so many others! A portion of the proceeds benefited PAWS Chicago. For more info on adoptions and the work of PAWS, please visit pawschicago.org. See ALL the of the fun on my Watch312.com video below! (Fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, Amie Hana and Jon Recano…view more event pics here!)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=FoNmhrNjrBXGC3MXvyuk-ucx-udh4LRi&version=2

Luxury Management (LUX MGT) celebrated Chicago’s eighth annual Fashion Focus week by staging a dramatic runway presentation of Maison De LaCour’s latest collections to benefit the American Cancer Society on October 16th. Staged inside Chicago’s breathtaking historical gem, The Murphy Auditorium, LUX MGT’s “The Immaculate One” fashion event also made a dream come true for one young girl battling cancer. Nine-year-old cancer survivor Alyssa’s wish to walk in a real fashion show became a reality Tuesday night when she stole the show – and hearts – with her courageous debut on the runway in a Madison and Friends boutique dress. Edrop-off’s Corri McFadden, Dose Market’s founder April Francis and KISS FM host Angi Taylor introduced Alyssa and emceed the showcasing of Maison De LaCour’s new ready-to-wear line (MDLC), as well as LaCour’s Spring 2013 collection. Models, choreographed by Yana German, strutted down the runway in a kaleidoscope of shimmering sheaths, bold prints, eye-catching hair sculptures by Salon VANITE’ Paul Mitchell Focus Salon and makeup by LaCOUR BEAUTE’. The intermission featured a professional modern ballet performance set to the music of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Sugar Hills Bakery provided all guests with delectable desserts and Russian Standard Vodka sponsored the pre-show VIP cocktail reception. Ricardo Sebastian founded LUX MGT as part of a college project to raise money for non-profits through event planning in 2008. Since then, LUX MGT has raised well over $600K for both not-for-profit and for-profit companies. Sebastian was nominated as one of “The Top 75 Up-and-Comers” by the Chicago Innovation Awards. Refinery 29 and Windy City Times listed him as one of this year’s “30 Under 30.” Congrats to all on this fabulous night of fashion for such a wonderful cause!

The nation is abuzz with talk of politics and, recently, Chicago’s own Jerry Lasky hosted a lavish buffet upstairs at Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse at a private viewing party for the vice presidential debate. The high powered get-together, that included Republican Congressman Joe Walsh and wife Helene, featured a viewing of the 90-minute debate by 30 politically-active friends who included Bruce Wirtz MacArthur, Patrick Donelly, Dr. John McMahan, Rick Canada, Ron Allen, Jay Gottlieb, Jonathan Bross, Lawrence Ryan, Bill Smithburg, comedian Tom Dreesen, Michael Ferro, John Lynch, Steve Stratton, David Smith, Bill Waldrop and Dan Uslan among others. May the best man win!

And speaking of politics, what a thrill it must’ve been for Ivory Reason Carson, the nephew of National Public Housing Museum’s Executive Director Keith Magee, when he met the POTUS! The President rubbed Ivory’s little head and told him, “One day, you will be president, too!” Awww…talk about inspiration! Loved this story! Congrats to little Ivory on his BIG intro! We love Uncle Keith!

What a thrill and what a coup for RL Restaurant and manager Rich Varnes! On Wednesday, October 24th, Oprah Winfrey taped a segment for her show at her “favorite spot” with Justin Bieber! The crowds were off the hook outside the restaurant where beloved waiter Scott McLellan had the honor of waiting on them all inside! The segment will air on November 25th on “Oprah’s Next Chapter” on OWN.

Ronald McDonald House Charities’ “Eat Global, Give Local” event attracted more than 150 people to Carnivale Restaurant recently for a night of charity, socializing and wonderful food from some of our top local chefs. The restaurant is gorgeous, as you know, and designer / restaurateur Jerry Kleiner was on hand greeting guests and sampling dishes from Frontier’s Chef Brian Jupiter (who served delicious milk braised pork shoulder with pistachio cornbread doused in pumpkin bacon gravy!), Davanti’s Chef Creon Mallett (who served roasted squash faro with goat cheese and apple cider reduction), Carnivale’s Chef David Dworshak, Café des Architectes’ Chef Gregg Biggers, Quay’s Chef Dan Marquis and SmallBar’s Chef Justin White among others. Jim DeMaria, Senior Director of Development & Marketing for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, spoke about the importance of the house and encouraged guests to volunteer. Another recent RMHCCNI event was hosted at the Hotel Lincoln’s J. Parker Hotel by dynamic Women’s Auxiliary Board members MaryAnne Smith (WB President and Coach Lovie’s adorable wife), Lesley Prizant Goodman and Carol Beitler. The night included some well-known faces like Heather Farley Ingram, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, John McKinnon, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Sheryl Dyer, Bill Chunowitz and many others. If you haven’t had a chance to visit the House, please check out this video and see what all of this fundraising is for! (Check out more pics here!)

The Paul Stuart townhouse at 107 E. Oak St. was full of friends and fans on October 18th to congratulate its handsome hosts and Brand Ambassadors, Christopher Clinton Conway (Executive Director of the Joffrey Ballet), Marc Brooks (Park 52 owner) and Jason Berngard (Gilt City curator). The occasion was to celebrate Paul Stuart’s collaboration with Esquire Black Book to introduce the Phineas Cole Fall/Winter 2012 Collection, Paul Stuart’s new line of contemporary men’s clothing. On hand for the evening was Phineas Cole designer Ralph Auriemma, who debuted the new collection and mingled with more than 100 stylish attendees. Guests mingled, shopped and enjoyed beer from local Chicago brewery Goose Island, spirits by Maker’s Mark, and water from Smartwater. Notable Chicago attendees included CBS’s Ryan Baker, Blue Chicago Media Group’s Ryan Jeffries, D.C. Crenshaw, Eric McKissack, Maggie Morgan, Tom Shure, Helen Melchoir, Ken Norgan and Arnie Becker. Jazz guitarist Kyle Asche played throughout the evening featuring a mix of jazz, rock and pop music. The evening concluded with guests receiving gift bags with complimentary collar stays from Paul Stuart and a special holiday treat from Maker’s Mark. Awwwwww, so sweet! Congrats to these handsome brand ambassadors and welcome Phineas Cole!!! To see more of the collection, please click here and to view more pics, please click here!)

It was a thrill to emcee cool jazz artist Zemrah’s “Here’s to Life” concert on Sweetest Day (how appropriate!) at Prairie State College Auditorium Theater on October 20th. Zemrah has been performing and perfecting her musical style since childhood, beginning in the church choir to opening for her favorite artist, Nancy Wilson. The night also celebrated the launch of her debut CD, “Irresistible Zemrah” and, from the audience response, she certainly is irresistible! Produced by longtime musical director Syd Brown, the show also included unforgettable performances by the Impression’s Reginald Torian, who was decked out head-to-toe in black leather. (Meow!) He debuted a new song that he will be singing with the group on the Impression’s farewell tour and dedicated it to his lady love, N’Digo’s Hermene Hartman. It was such a touching moment and, since I was sitting next to her, one she did not expect! He even gave her a rose…it was a very special moment on a night filled with great moments and I was so excited to be there! Guest artist and one of the most charismatic men I’ve met, Marcus Gentry, also performed. He sang solo and then, for the finale, appeared in the entranceway in a bright yellow jacket singing “At Last” with Zemrah…the crowd went wild and when they slow-danced onstage together, it was magic. She had a great crowd of admirers who never wanted to leave after the show and stayed late to have their pics taken with her and to buy her CD. Zemrah will be performing two shows at Close-Up 2 Contemporary Jazz Club (located at 416 S. Clark St.) every Thursday beginning November 8th. Don’t miss this dynamic entertainer who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside!

And now for some much deserved congrats! First up, I just love The HAUTE Spot and, apparently, I’m not the only one! Congrats on winning TimeOut Chicago’s 2012 Best Consignment Shop honor!!! Visit their fabulous River West showroom and see why!

Huge congrats to beloved designer Nate Berkus on his recent book signing at Jayson Home & Garden! His gorgeous book, “The Things That Matter,” is not your typical how-to, should-do book on home design but rather a fresh take on what makes you the happiest in your home, and THOSE are the “things that matter.” This book would make a fantastic holiday gift for ALL of your friends! Click here to buy and congrats Nate! Everyone loves YOU!

The Junior League of Chicago will be hosting its annual fundraiser on Friday and Saturday, November 16th and 17th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Randolph. This Gazebo Holiday Market always has a broad selection of gifts and is a perfect place to start your holiday shopping. Come to the “Martinis & Mistletoe” preview party on Friday night and have an exclusive first look while enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music, raffle prizes and more! (For tickets and more info, please click here!

I can’t wait for Luxury Garage Sale’s Grand Opening on Wednesday, November 7th at 1658 N. Wells St., in Old Town (my ‘hood!). Darling owners Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal are hosting an evening of mixing, mingling, shopping and champagne while viewing “the city’s most refined collection of consignment couture and accessories.” For more info, please call 312.291.9126 or visit www.luxurygaragesale.com. I’ll see YOU there!

Join Chicago Home + Garden Magazine's third annual Chairs for Charity event on Wednesday, November 7th from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Cosentino Center located at 1060 W. Division St. as they auction off vintage chairs given new life by Chicago's top designers. Get exclusive access to 15 one-of-a-kind chairs from Francine Turk, Soucie Horner, Erik Kolacz, Lance Lawson, Michele Fitzpatrick and more. While bidding on your favorite chairs, enjoy delicious hors d'oeuvres by Texas de Brazil and complimentary beer by Peroni and wine provided by City Winery. Tickets are $35. Auction proceeds and a portion of ticket sales will benefit The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

If you love sushi in a cozy, fun-filled environment, then check out Sushi-O-Sushi at 346 W. Armitage: Chef Andy makes everyone feel like they’re family!! I just love this spot and you will, too!

Thanks so much for checking in and I hope you’re enjoyed this week’s edition! Please follow me on Facebook (Candid Candace) and Twitter (@CandidCandace) and see what’s HAUTE in the Windy City!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. It’s great to see Hef is still having fun and that his Halloween parties still rock…and author Margie Wilson-Mars tells all right here! (Who knew Holly was pregnant and see who the surprise guest was!)

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as ActionBooth, Akiram Jon Cotay, Alicia Roman, Alison Libby, Alyssa, American Cancer Society, Amie Hana, Andrea Schwarts, Angi Taylor, April Francis, Arabel Alva Rosales, Arnie Becker, Attila Gyulai, Ava Anthony, Barker & Meowsky, Bill Chunowitz, Bill Smithburg, Bill Waldrop, Billy Dec, Brenda Arelano, Brian Jupiter, Bridget Spence, Brielle Buchberg, Brotha Fred, Bruce Wirtz MacArthur, Café des Architectes, Caitlin Saville Collins, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Chicago, CandidCandace, Carnivale Restaurant, Carol Beitler, Catie Keogh, Chairs for Charity, Chef Andy, Chicago Home + Garden, Chicago Tribune, Christopher Clinton Conway, Cindy Burns, Cleon’s Clothing Co., Congressman Joe Walsh, Contessa Bottega, Contessa Helena, Corri McFadden, Cory Tran, Creon Mallett, Crystal Peters, Custom Hair Lounge & Spa, Dan Marquis, Dan Uslan, Davanti, David Dworshak, David Smith, DC Crenshaw, Deborah Brown, Deborah Goodman, DIFFA, Dina Bair, Dose Market, Dr. Bechara Choucair, Dr. John McMahan, Dr. Steven Rosen, Eat Global Give Local, eDrop-Off, Emma Arnold, Eric McKissack, Erica Bethe Levin, Erik Kolacz, Fraley Le, Francine Turk, Frontier, Funkside Eniola, Gary Gonzalez, Gazebo Holiday Market, Germania Place, Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse, Gilt City, Gregg Biggers, Heather Farley Ingram, Helen Melchior, Helene Walsh, Hermene Hartman, Holly Madison, Hotel Lincoln, Hugh Hefner, Imerman Angels, Irresistible Zemrah, Ivory Reason Carson, J. Parker Hotel, Jason Berngard, Jay Gottlieb, Jennifer Sutton, Jerry Kleiner, Jerry Latsky, Jessica Zweig, Jim DeMaria, Jim Logothetis, Joffrey Ballet, John Lynch, John McKinnon, John O’Neil, Jon Cotay, Jon Recano, Jonathan Bross, Jonny Imerman, Joseph House, Julie Lampert, Junior League of Chicago, Just Human, Justin White, Katie Mclenaghan, Keith Magee, Kelli Zink, Ken Norgan, Kerry Shorr, Komen Chicago Pink Tie Guys, Kristina McGrath, Kyle Asche, LaCour Beaute, Lance Lawson, Laura Bee, Laura Schwartz, Lawrence Ryan, Lesley Prizant Goodman, Lexus, Lindsay Segal, Lovie Smith, LUX MGT, Luxury Garage Sale, Luxury Management, Lynn McMahan, Maggie Morgan, Maison De La Cour, Mandel Productions, Marc Brooks, Marco Foster, MarCon Communications, Marcus Gentry, Marcus Riley, Margaret O’Connor, Margie Wilson-Mars, Mark Roscoe, Martinis & Mistletoe, MaryAnne Smith, Meekis, Micah Materre, Michael Ferro, Michael Ziener, Michele Fitzpatrick, Michi Marshall, Mira Couture, Mitchell’s Soda Shop, Nancy Wilson, Nate Berkus, National Public Housing Museum, N’Digo, Nevena Zee, NEXT Fashion Chicago, Oprah Winfrey, OWN, Paris Club, Park 52, Patrick Donelly, Paul Iacono, Paul Latza, Paul Stuart, PAWS Chicago, Phineas Cole, Pink Tie Gala, Pink Tie Guys, Playboy, President Barack Obama, Quay, Ralph Auriemma, Refinery 29, Reginald Torian, Reverend Percy W. McCray, Ricardo Sebastian, Rich Varnes, Richard Daley, Rick Canada, Rita George, RL restaurant, Robert Fioretti, Robert Sivek, Ron Allen, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Rose Mandel, Rosemary Fanti, Ruan Jeffries, Russian Standard Vodka, Ryan Baker, Ryan Chiaverini, Sahar Dada, Sally Shorr, Salon Vanite Paul Mitchell Focus Salon, Scott McLellan, Shawna House, Sherren Leigh, Sheryl Dyer, Siamonto Etian, SmallBar, Soucie Horner, Stan Bowman, Steve Stratton, Studio Alade, Sugar Hills Bakery, Susan G. Komen Chicago, Sushi-O-Sushi, Syd Brown, Tania Gilbert, Tanner & Dash, The HAUTE Spot, The Things That Matter, TimeOut Chicago, Tom Dreesen, Tom Shure, Toni Canada, Tribune Media Group, Truffle Truffle, Tyrone Farley, Victor LaGroon, Wade Miquelon, Walgreen’s, Watch312.com, Windy City Times, Wintrust Community Bank, Wsquire Black Book, Yana German, Yemonja Smalls, Zemrah, Zingha Hester

August 9, 2012 · 1:21 pm

THE SERVICE CLUB’S 8TH ANNUAL FASHION SHOW IS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER!

…PLUS CHEFS & THE CITY HIGHLIGHTS, COOPER TAKES CHARGE, A WHOLE BLU WORLD, IADT’S IMAGINE ’12 FASHION SHOW, OLYMPIC NEWS, STELLA’S LATEST HONORS, BIRTHDAYS GALORE, A VERY SPECIAL NECKLACE, CHICAGO TRIBUNE’S GIFT TO READERS, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

This event has been a longtime labor of love for this year’s Chair Emeritus and event founder Hazel Barr, who, along with co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Saira Cooper and Tracey DiBuono (Tarantino), planned a fashion extravaganza July 30th that was a sell out with more than 260 guests. The perfect summer day started on the Peninsula terrace. And with the Hancock building looming in the background, guests mingled and enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres while anxiously awaiting the start of the show. Since I was modeling, I got there early for rehearsals which is always great fun with all of the ladies in high spirits and excited about spending the day with their friends. The Grand Ballroom was bathed in a sea of pink and themed “C’est Magnifique.” Images of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe were projected on the walls with a pink runway waiting for models who included Service Club members along with other local celebrities. Tracey Tarantino, as always, expertly produced the show even adding original French street music and remixed French pop music. This year’s runway collections featured fall fashions from top retailers that included Escada (Mary Pat Burns wore my favorite outfit of the day: a feathered coat dress over a strapless dress – exquisite!), Intermix, Starr Couture and Neopolitan. Laurie Davis’ Lulu’s at the Belle Kay provided vintage splendor for a show that had something for everyone. The men’s fashions were provided by Burdi and Tom James with an exciting finale inspired by the Olympics from Ralph Lauren Polo that featured models waving American flags on their runway walks. Other highlights included an exciting evening gown and fur segment from the always popular, long-time supporter, Neiman Marcus, and Stuart Weitzman, whose shoe segment had women clamoring for more! Baton Show Lounge performer Chilli Pepper was a crowd pleaser in her own black mini-dress topped with an eye-popping red cropped fur jacket. (Neiman’s gowns are breathtaking and I was honored to wear one by designer Robin Singer.) Models included Dan Uslan, Skip Grisham, Rich Gamble, Bunky Cushing, Stanley Paul, DC Crenshaw, Dr. Julius Few, Greg Hyder, Rich Varnes, Elizabeth Brodsky, Mamie Walton, Karen Peters, Kelly Drury, Larissa Kronfeld, Matt Lee, John Carroll, Scott Bobek, Rino Burdi, Jean Antoniou, Kim Gleeson, Lynn McMahan, Toni Canada, Gale Gottlieb, Abe Thompson, Rich Gamble, Mary Lasky, Sheila O’Grady, Saira Cooper, Tina Weller, Sherren Leigh, Susanna Negovan, Kip Lewis, Robin Robinson, Amy Wimer, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Mary Ann Childers, and more. (Photography by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…please click here to view more pics!)

Finally, the PAWS Beach Party is ready for your viewing pleasure! Since we are upgrading our network, this has taken a little longer than usual. Hope you enjoy this darling segment about the pets and the people who love them!

Chefs & the City is always a much-loved and highly-supported event at the Ritz-Carlton benefitting Vital Bridges Chronic Care Center and for its eighth annual event in the Grand Ballroom, more than 30 top chefs donated their time and fabulous samplings for a delectable evening of food for a cause! Beginning with a VIP Reception, guests sipped Grey Goose cocktails and beverages provided by Magic Hat, enjoyed tunes from DJ Megan Taylor and snapped photos in the Magbooth provided by Magnolia Photo Booth Co. Savory fare was prepared by 24 top chefs who included Ryan Pitts (from RL who was also the Chef Chair), Heather Terhune (Sable), Chris Pandel (The Bristol), Carl Shelton (BOKA), Giuseppe Tentori (GT Fish & Oyster), Patricio Sandoval (Mercadito), Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Doug Psaltis (RPM Italian), Roger Herring (Socca), Greg Bastien (Tavernita), Michael Garbin (Union League Club), Chuck Kazmer (Deca), Shawn McClain (Green Zebra), Jerome Bacle (Courtright’s), Paul Virant (Perennial Virant/Vie), Andy Motto (Quince) and Jonathan Gorecki (Karyn’s on Green) among many others. Honorary chairs for the event were Rich Varnes, Amanda Puck and Jason Dohmann. The evening also featured an amazing raffle that included a weekend in Harbor Country, a week in Puerto Vallarta, tickets to Chicago Gourmet, a C.D. Peacock necklace and so much more! The tastings were out of this world: Some of my highlights were Chef Jerome Bacle’s tomato gazpacho, Chef Tony Priolo’s seafood salad,
Chef Michael Garbin’s short rib sliders, Chef Stephen Henry’s heirloom tomato burrata with fresh basil and Chef Adam Grandt’s crispy pork bellies with tomato jam. Vital Bridges President/CEO Debbie Hinde, presented RL Restaurant and Gibsons Restaurant Group with the Robert S. Mayo Extra Helping Award which was accepted by RL GM Rich Varnes and Chef Pitts. The dance floor filled for the after-party as DJ Taylor jammed with drummer Michael Riendeau. Guests in attendance included Todd Hatoff, Mark Smithe, Joli Burrell, Jessica Zweig and Brian Fisher, Leslie Hindman’s John Walcher (who did the auctioneering), Alan Harder, Lorin Adolph, Sanjay and Natasha Sharma, Chuck Benya, Tina Weller and Dr. Jeff Weller, Bill Lasche, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Paul Iacono and Elizabeth Brodsky. For this portion of the evening, food choices included a hot dog cart from America’s Dog, Swirlz cupcakes, Vosges chocolates and Jake Melnick’s hamburgers. More than $100,000 was raised to support Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care, which helps low-income people living with AIDS rebuild their health and lives by providing food and nutrition services, housing and counseling. Revenue from Chefs & the City will underwrite food for more than 30,000 meals and 1,200 nights of housing. (To see more pics and my complete Chicago Tribune Sunday coverage, please click here!)

It was a whole BLU world of fundraising when co-chairs Janet Barnes and Ashley Weinzweig welcomed a record 1,200 guests to a sold-out lakeside soiree at the Shedd Aquarium for the sixth annual Auxiliary Board fundraiser, BLU! Raising more than $266,000 to support Shedd’s conservation and education initiatives, Shedd’s sultry summer evening benefit was filled with the sounds of tinkling cocktail glasses and local performers who included Detour JazFunk, Diver, Ami Moss & The Unfortunate and DJ Zebo. Against a backdrop of the Chicago skyline with fireworks popping over Lake Michigan, this event is always a sellout and a very popular summer social event! “The combining of exotic food and wine tastings with the glittering Chicago skyline made for an unforgettable night to come together in support of the Shedd,” said Barnes. Attendees enjoyed an array of mouthwatering dishes throughout the evening such as Big Fish Farms’ sustainable American paddlefish caviar (a staple at any Shedd event), summer garden rolls from Sunda, walleye tacos with tomato jalapeno chutney from Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop and peeky toe crab cannoli from The Florentine. The planet-friendly event also featured a delectable dish from Sweetspring Salmon – the only sustainably-farmed salmon in the world, signs that were made from recycled materials or will be reused for other Shedd events and compostable plates and silverware. “This is the most successful BLU in the event’s history,” said Weinzweig. “From dollars raised to people in attendance – even down to how much fun everyone had!” To cap off an already enjoyable evening, trolleys shuttled guests between Shedd and Underground for the after-party. (For more pics, please click here!)

One of the city’s hottest fashion showcases is set to take place at the UIC Forum Stage on Friday, September 21st at 8 p.m. when students from The International Academy of Design & Technology host Imagine ’12. Emceed by Jane Monzures of Loop FM’s morning show and host of "Living Healthy" on WGN, this student-produced exhibition will showcase an impressive array of garments by 44 student designers and the production talents of IADT’s students, in addition to highlighting unique programs at the school. Join designer Borris Powell, Michelle Tan, Suzanne Kopulos, Mallory Ulaszek, Rebecca Taras, Horacio Nieto, Tonya Pierce, Fraley Le, LaTonya Williams and Katie Schuppler, among many others, for a night of fashion and inspiration! For tickets ($15 for students and $25 for general admission) and more info, please call 312.980.9295 or email imagine@iadtchicago.com.

W.I.N.E. (Women in Entertainment) TV profiles a journalist and producer who is doing it ALL – Vicky Baftiri. As an Emmy-winning journalist and National Association of Black Journalist “Salute to Excellence” nominee, Vicky’s producing credits include the NBC nationally syndicated “Open House” and special news reports for WGN-TV. W.I.N.E. TV creator Sheila Henley says, “I’m so excit
ed for her to share her experiences and I hope it inspires young women everywhere to write, edit and produce!” Congrats, Vicky and Sheila!

Olympian Ruth Riley, who won gold as a member of the undefeated 2004 USA women’s basketball team in Athens, hosted an Opening Ceremony viewing party at Rockit Bar & Grill. Prior to her party, she spent the afternoon as the guest of the British Consulate in Chicago watching a live feed of the Opening Ceremonies. The viewing was held at the residence of Her Majesty’s Consul General, Robert Chatterson Dickson with citizens of Great Britain, members of the Mayor’s office and other guests in attendance. Ruth is currently a member of the WNBA basketball team, the Chicago Sky. Selected by ESPN as one of only three former Olympians to be given a Flip cam, she recorded interviews from both viewing parties with portions from each to be used as vignettes during telecasts. Meet Ruth and her teammates in person when they appear at a fundraiser for Nothing But Nets sponsored by Amazing Cosmetics on August 12th in Libertyville from noon to 4 p.m. Nothing But Nets' malaria campaign is a global initiative to eliminate one of the leading killers of children in Africa. For more info, please click here. (Pics by Slawek Chrzaszcz and Steve Starr…check out more pics here!)

Six months ago, the Chicago Tribune proudly launched Printers Row, a membership program for those who love books, authors and conversations about the ideas they generate. This weekend, they offered readers a special eight page sample tucked inside the Sunday section (where Candid Candace’s column also appears!). And beginning this week, they are offering even MORE perks with the membership program ($99 per year) which will include four free tickets to Printers Row Live! Events in addition to Book-of-the-Month discounts, private author receptions and conversations at Tribune Tower. You can now also buy it as a digital-only subscription for $29 or just the journal/fiction, no events or programs, for $49, which includes the Printers Row Journal and Fiction home-delivered every week in print and digital editions. To join, call 866.977.8742, offer code X156, or click here! Happy reading from your friends at the Chicago Tribune!!! This is a real literary treat!

Lots of friends’ birthdays this month! I loved celebrating the Squire, Bunky Cushing’s, birthday at the Four Seasons’ Allium Restaurant with his special ladies who included Hazel Barr, Zarada Gowenlock, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Robin Segesta, Myra Reilly and Megan McKinney. Chef Kevin Hickey’s menu is out of this world delicious and I was so thrilled to be included! Friends also celebrated the perpetually glam Toni Canada’s birthday (or as Dusty Stemer called it “her birthday tour”) at Piccolo Sogno. The evening couldn’t have been more perfect and Toni matched the occasion in one of the most beautiful dresses I’ve seen in a long time, a form-fitting floral sheath with purple feathers by Prabal Gurung. Friends on the patio included Corri McFadden (who regaled us with tales of her fairytale engagement on Capri), Jan Flanagan (sporting the coolest Louis Vuitton cuff on the planet), Lynn McMahan, Nina Mariano, Dusty, Susanna Negovan, Heather Farley Ingram and Jennifer Hamood. And a special thanks to all of my sweet friends who came out for my late birthday celebration at Chicago Cut! I loved seeing Leslie Hindman, Sheila O’Grady, Helen Melchior, Toni Canada, Nina Mariano, Jan Flanagan, Sheryl Dyer, Chris Long, Kristina McGrath, Sonya Jackson, Hazel Barr, Lynn McMahan, Mary Pat Burns, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou and Tracy Tarantino. (Sharyl Mackey couldn’t attend since she and Mike were vacationing in Michigan.) Bon anniversaire a mes amis! 🙂 (For more pics from these fun parties, please click here!)

I’m lovin’ all of this great press for and about Stella Foster! People are coming out of the woodwork to celebrate, honor, fete and host events to celebrate her long career! Her "Windy City Live" interview on Monday was priceless and now comes word she will be the FIRST African American women to be named Honorary Grand Marshall for the Columbus Day Parade on October 8th!!!! Later that same night, she also appeared on Jim Williams’ Show and Chicago Tonight with Phil Ponce! I have a feeling her “retirement” won’t be quite what she thinks it will be! LOL! Oh, and did I tell you the Mayor proclaimed Monday to be Stella Foster Day in Chicago!?! I was honored to be included in her last column along with so many other friends like Shell Reyes, Tony Weisman, Ken Bedford, Bonnie Krueger Spurlock, Anna Davlantes, Les Coney, John Roger and Mark Suppelsa! Stay tuned for more “Stellabration” updates! The Foster Love Train is just startin’ to roll!

http://WFLD.images.worldnow.com/interface/js/WNVideo.js?rnd=453735;hostDomain=www.myfoxchicago.com;playerWidth=630;playerHeight=355;isShowIcon=true;clipId=7549327;flvUri=;partnerclipid=;adTag=News;advertisingZone=;enableAds=true;landingPage=;islandingPageoverride=false;playerType=STANDARD_EMBEDDEDscript;controlsType=overlay
Chicago News and Weather | FOX Chicago News

Check out this pic of Cooper Hefner that his dad tweeted Monday night along with the phrase, “And the legend continues!” He is the spitting image of Hef! I also hear he was a fabulous host at Saturday night’s Midsummer Night’s Dream party, even donning PJs! Too cute for words! And yes, Crystal Harris (aka the runaway bride) was there, too! (Check out a few more pics here!)

And if you’re in the market for unique jewelry and fast cars, then you might want to check out the Concurs d’ Elegance in Pebble Beach next week, August 15th through 19th. This is one of the top car shows in the world with rare autos showcased against a stunning backdrop. A special highlight of the grand event will be a one-of-a-kind necklace created by former race car driver, Mary Kaczor. This piece is so special (for this 100th anniversary) that it even has its own name, Winning Ways II! It was created from pieces of famous cars in the past including the frame nut from the Marmon Wasp, the very first car to win the Indy 500. The necklace is sculpted out of 18K white gold with black and white princess cut diamonds on its sides symbolizing two checkered flags. The centerpiece is a 10.43 carat diamond graded E VVS1. Bids will begin at $1.6 million…yeah, you heard me! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum as well as the Wheldon Family Trust. (Driver Dan Wheldon was killed in the Las Vegas race last year and is survived by his widow and two young sons.) (For more info, visit www.pebblebeachconcours.net or email mary@racerxdesigns.com.)

One of my favorite boutiques, STRUT, will be hosting a special shopping night, “High Fashion Without the High Price,” on Thursday, August 9th from 6 to 9 p.m. at 2549 N. Clark. Darling designer Borris Powell will feature his latest ready-to-wear collection and be on hand to answer all of your fashion questions. Beautiful boutique owner Niala Conte will be offering wine and appetizers to her lucky customers! Hope to see you there!

A special thanks to CS Magazine for featuring our Glamorama Launch Party in such fun style
in this month’s magazine! I love the comments and thought this was so clever! Hope to see you all Friday night, too! 🙂

That’s all folks! Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition and I hope you’re having a fun-filled summer!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Breaking news from my friend Tissy Eggleston who submitted this pic of the FIRST image transmitted from the Curiosity Rover on Mars!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as Abe Thompson, Alan Harder, Allium Restaurant, Amanda Puck, Amazing Cosmetics, America’s Dog, Ami Moss & The Unfortunate, Amy Wimer, Andy Motto, Anna Davlantes, Ashley Weinzweig, Baton Show Lounge, Big Fish Farms, Bill Lasche, BLU, BOKA, Bonnie Krueger Spurlock, Borris Powell, Brian Fisher, Bunky Cushing, Burdi, C.D. Peacock, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carl Shelton, Chefs & the City, Chicago Cut, Chicago Gourmet, Chicago Sky, Chicago Tonight with Phil Ponce, Chicago Tribune, Chilli Pepper, Chris Long, Chris Pandel, Chuck Benya, Chuck Kazmer, Columbus Day Parade, Concurs d’Elegance, Cooper Hefner, Corri McFadden, Courtright’s, Crystal Harris, CS Magazine, Curiosity Rover, Dan Uslan, Dan Wheldon, DC Crenshaw, Debbie Hinde, Deca, Detour JazFunk, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop, Diver, DJ Megan Taylor, DJ Zebo, Doug Psaltis, Dr. Jeff Weller, Dr. Julius Few, Dusty Stemer, Elizabeth Brodsky, Escada, Four Seasons, Fraley Le, Gale Gottlieb, Giuseppe Tentori, Glamorama Launch Party, Green Zebra, Greg Bastien, Greg Hyder, Grey Goose, GT Fish & Oyster, Hazel Barr, Heather Farley Ingram, Heather Terhune, Helen Melchior, High Fashion Without the High Prices, Horacio Nieto, Hugh Hefner, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Intermix, International Academy of Design and Technology, Jake Melnick’s, Jan Flanagan, Jane Monzures, Janet Barnes, Jason Dohmann, Jean Antoniou, Jennifer Hamood, Jerome Bacale, Jessica Zweig, Jim Williams’ Show, John Carroll, John Roger, John Walcher, Joli Burrell, Jonathan Gorecki, Karen Peters, Karyn’s on Green, Katie Schuppler, Kelly Drury, Ken Bedford, Ken Norgan, Kevin Hickey, Kim Gleeson, Kip Lewis, Kristina McGrath, Larissa Kronfeld, LaTonya Williams, Laurie Davis, Les Coney, Leslie Hindman, Lorin Adolph, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Lynn McMahan, Magic Hat, Magnolia Photo Booth Co., Mallory Ulaszek, Mamie Walton, Mark Smithe, Mark Suppelsa, Mary Ann Childers, Mary Kaczor, Mary Lasky, Mary Pat Burns, Matt Lee, Megan McKinney, Mercadito, Michael Garbin, Michelle Tan, Midsummer Night’s Dream Party, Mila Samokhina, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Myra Reilly, Natasha Sharma, Neiman Marcus, Neopolitan, Niala Conte, Nina Mariano, Nothing But Nets, Patricio Sandoval, Paul Iacono, Paul Virant, PAWS Beach Party, Perennial Virant, Piccolo Sogno, Prabal Gurung, Printers Row, Printers Row Live! Events, Quince, Ralph Lauren Polo, Rebecca Taras, Rich Gamble, Rich Varnes, Rino Burdi, RL, Robert Chatterson Dickson, Robin Robinson, Robin Singer, Rockit Bar & Grill, Roger Herring, RPM Italian, Ruth Riley, Ryan Pitts, Sable, Saira Cooper, Sanjay Sharma, Scott Bobek, Service Club of Chicago, Sharyl Mackey, Shawn McClain, Shedd Aquarium, Sheila Henley, Sheila O’Grady, Shell Reyes, Sherren Leigh, Sheryl Dyer, Skip Grisham, Slawek Chrzaszcz, Socca, Sonya Jackson, Stanley Paul, Starr Couture, Stella Foster, Stella Foster Day, Steve Starr, STRUT, Stuart Weitzman, Sunda, Susanna Negovan, Suzanne Kopulos, Sweetspring Salmon, Swirlz, Tavernita, The Bristol, The Florentime, Tina Weller, Tissy Eggleston, Todd Hatoff, Tom James, Toni Canada, Tony Priolo, Tony Weisman, Tonya Pierce, Tracey DiBuono, Tracey Tarantino, UIC, Underground, Union League Club, Vie, Vital Bridges Chronic Care Center, Vivky Baftiri, Vosges, W.I.N.E. TV, Wheldon Family Trust, Windy City Live, Winning Ways II, WNBA, Women in Entertainment TV, Zarada Gowenlock

July 25, 2012 · 10:28 am

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BALL’S BIG SURPRISE: THE VILLAGE PEOPLE!

…PLUS PAWS-ITIVELY BEACHY, FIELD MUSEUM IS WILD ABOUT HARRY, THE DARK KNIGHT'S CHICAGO PREMIERE, A ST. TROPEZ CHIC DESIGNER, WHITE HOUSE HONORS FOR PAUL, A GIANT NY BOOK LAUNCH, TOM STREHLE’S PERFECT PITCH, A SPECIAL 50TH AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo hosted its 35th annual Zoo Ball in one of my favorite venues! As 1,000 black-tie clad guests entered the zoo grounds through the East Gate, they were greeted by more than 30,000 feet of dramatic sweeping tents. Earlier in the day, one of the tents came down due to heavy rain but all was well by the time the event began. During the cocktail reception across from the Kovler Lion House, one could hear the big cats roaring their approval as guests raised funds to keep them supplied with kitty food. The Feed a Friend Program offered supporters the opportunity to donate for various zoo animals and receive a corresponding stuffed animal to show their support. Levels included $100 to feed a gibbon family for three months all the way up to $15,000 to feed a gorilla family for a year. It was a great way to get guests involved in the zoo as well as raise funds. And for those who didn’t want to take the stuffed toys, they could be donated to Lurie Children’s Hospital which has a floor sponsored by the Zoo. Themed “The Great Catsby” and presented by Guggenheim (who underwrote the evening’s dinner in its entirety), the event was co-chaired by Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Polayes with Honorary Chair Anne Pramaggiore. Women’s Board President Abby Zanarini welcomed the crowd and thanked Guggenheim and J.N. Pritzker/Tawani Foundation/Pritzker Military Library for their continued support. She also acknowledged Barbara Higgins (Allstate), Anne Pramaggiore (ComEd), John Alexander (Chairman of the Board) and Kevin Bell (Zoo President and CEO). Event Creative’s Jeffrey Foster helped bring the chairs’ décor vision to life: An elegant Hampton’s vibe included masses of blue hydrangeas and twinkling chandeliers as well as a stage that resembled a white gate complete with hedge walls. Auction Chair Bridget Campbell arranged a vast array of silent auction items in the chic Leopard Lounge that included Andrea Bocelli box seats (sold for $5K), Master’s golf package (two passes for all four days sold for $19K), a one week stay at the Four Seasons Costa Rica (sold for $6K), a signed Joakim Noah jersey, Ryder Cup tickets and so much more! Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from J & L Catering that included mini Black Forest ham, gruyere and Dijon panini fingers; Maryland crab cakes; vegetable spring rolls; maple-glazed dates; and mini corn muffins with tomatillo-braised chicken. Following the reception, a recorded lion’s roar summoned guests into dinner. Against the musical backdrop of Rendezvous, guests enjoyed delicious tenderloin with caramelized shallots, fingerling potatoes and succotash and a dessert of strawberry shortcake, key lime tart with Michigan berries and chocolate ganache. The highlight of the evening came when surprise performers The Village People were introduced. As guests jammed the dance floor, this popular 1970’s disco group performed their hits “Macho Man” and “In the Navy.” They whipped the crowd into a frenzy with their closing number “YMCA” amid a sea of camera flashes. It was so exciting – how in the world they kept this a secret, I’ll never know! Seen on the scene were Barbara Higgins and Daniel Glynn, Tina Koegel, Wendy Krimins, William Holdeman, Paul Iacono, Sherren Leigh, Ken Norgan, Myra and John Reilly, Beth Levin and Marcus Lemonis, Vicki and Bill Hood, Kathy Brock and Doug Regan, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Janet and Rodger Owen, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Wendy Chronister and Peter Rogers, John Alexander, Ann and Blake Benjamin, Bridget and Matthew Campbell, Kimbra and Mark Walter, Holly and Peter Francis Geraci, Jeff Shea, Veronica Zepeda and Bob Loquercio, Mary Ann Young, Ami and Kevin Connolly, Donna and Michael Rigert, Cynthia Holbrook, Debra and Martin Beck, Susan Regenstein, Wendy and Steve Beard, Charlie Huebner, Tracey Benford, Joan Cusack, Jennifer and John Caruso and Deborah and Bruce Crown. At the close of the event, attendees received gift bags that contained John Derian glass mementos provided by Guggenheim, along with cool treats from Pinkberry and late-night slices from the Connie’s Pizza and Catering truck. Chauffeured courtesy cars – BMW 750i’s, to be precise – were stationed out front to whisk guests home…LOVED this! Proceeds from the ball ($1 million) will support the Women’s Board pledge to the Zoo’s Nature Boardwalk and will provide critical support to maintain this community landmark that is one of the last free zoos that's open every day in the nation! (Photos by Bob Carl, Violet Dominek, Julia Nash and Alain Miloti…click here for more!)

The night was PAWS-atively sensational at the 10th annual PAWS Chicago Beach party held at North Avenue Beach’s Castaways Boathouse on July 19th. With more than 400 guest and 100 dogs in attendance, this event raised $215,000 for the city’s largest no-kill humane society. Every partygoer received a colorful lei upon arrival at the summer’s largest pet-friendly social gathering co-chaired by Renata and Robert Block and Virginia Stafman. Once on deck, supporters enjoyed a lavish beach buffet courtesy of Stefani Catering that included hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, veggie burgers, salads, pizza, pretzels, ice cream, cookies and more fun food. The doggie buffet offered Swirlz “pupcakes” and Licks’ all natural liquid vitamin drinks as well as other treats. The evening’s signature cocktail, “PAWS on the Beach,” kept guests fueled for fun as they danced to the sounds of Spoken Four. The doggies and their owners were dressed in their best summer fashions with some sporting sunglasses, t-shirts, baseball caps and sundresses. And even though the night threatened rain, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of this loyal group of PAWS supporters. US99’s Lisa Dent, emcee and guest of honor, introduced PAWS founder/chair Paula Fasseas. “It’s great to see our community come together to help save the lives of homeless pets,” said Fasseas, who founded the organization in 1997. Volunteers were then introduced who presented rescue pups Hannah, Sponge, Mikey, Winslow and Clark to the crowd. The live auction packages included something for everyone including the highlight of the night, a VIP package from the Boss himself – Bruce Springsteen! This exciting auction prize included four VIP tickets to his September concert in Wrigley Field plus the opportunity to relax inside the VIP E Street Lounge before the show and his entire discography! Susan Clack bought this one-of-a-kind opportunity and said she might give it to her pregnant daughter. Veterinarian Dr. Tara Clack – Susan’s other daughter – was over the top with happiness. (Her darling boyfriend, Mark Bell, will most certainly approve!) Other auction items included the opportunity to have your pets featured as the official 2013 Beach Party logo. Last year’s winners, Judy and Howard Tullman, had their two dogs and two cats featured this year. Next year, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock’s furry family will grace the cover of the invite and all promo materials. (They paid $8K for this honor!) Lunch with Alpana Singh sold to Jimmy Meyer for $3,500, VIP Lollapalooza tickets sold to Cheri Lawrence for $5,000 and a luxury trip to Beverly Hills sold to Nancy Timmers for $5,500. All in all, the Beach Party raised more than $215,000 for PAWS Chicago. Their Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic will provide sterilizations for more than 18,000 pets of families in underserved communities. PAWS Chicago doesn’t receive any financial support from federal, state or local government agencies and is 100-percent reliant upon the community’s generosity. Charity Navigator, the country’s largest independent charity evaluator, has consistently awarded PAWS Chicago with its highest rating of four stars and honored them with national recognition due to their conscientious use of donor funds. Since PAWS’ inception, the number of homeless pets euthanized in the city each year has dropped by more than 50 percent from 42,561 to less than 18,000 in 2011. For more info, please visit www.PAWSChicago.org. Chuck and I own a PAWS dog (Rooney) and he couldn’t be sweeter! I know there’s a darling canine or feline there waiting for you, too! Stay tuned for Watch312.com coverage coming from this fun event! (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina.)

My FAVORITE vintage market, Randolph Street Market, returns July 28th and 29th to 1340 W. Randolph St.! I can’t wait to see its “Made in the Shade” summer theme which will include a Shade Shack Cabana filled with new independent artists and designers! And don’t forget to look up my favorite jewelry dealer, Ira Sheck: Many of my statement necklaces come from this eagle-eyed New Yorker! (Tell him Candace sent you!) Randolph Street Market is baaaackkkk!!! :)

The Field Museum’s Women’s Board hosted an Outreach Luncheon that featured the remarkable designs of A.V. Shinde, the renowned Indian jewelry designer for the house of legendary jeweler, Harry Winston. Co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, the program began with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers included Reema Keswani, an expert on Indian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde, and Anthony Ledru, the Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston, Inc. For 40 years, A.V. Shinde was the head designer for Harry Winston where he designed for the rich and famous including the Queen of England, Imelda Marcos and Liz Taylor, to name a few. In his earlier years, he designed for the maharajahs and maharanis of India. He died in 2003, at the age of 85. An Indian-themed luncheon followed the presentation in Stanley Field Hall where Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord was honored as this year’s Women in Science Fellow. For more info, please click here! (Photos by Steve Starr and Tonja Hall.)

Eloise Lapidus, daughter of famed designer Ted Lapidus, is bringing a fresh style and Parisian charm to her new line of apparel for BoBo House. Her keen sense of fashion was inspired by her father’s designs, which were worn and coveted by icons such as Brigitte Bardot, Alain Delon, Francoise Hardy and John Lennon. Eloise was greatly influenced by ‘60s and ‘70s bourgeoisie bohemians, or “Bobos” of Paris and St. Tropez. Take a look at her ultra-soft, luxurious basics fit for a relaxing day at Club 55 or on your yacht in the Port and see for yourselves!

How about some party news from the East Coast? A blow-out bash at NYC’s No. 8 hotspot celebrated NY Giants star Victor Cruz’ new memoir, “Out of the Blue.” “It may seem like I came out of the blue. But, my road was long, windy, full of hurdles, and even some dead ends. I lost family. I lost friends. I even lost my way. When I reached what felt like rock bottom, I realized I had a responsibility to everyone who believed in me and to kids, like me, who just needed a chance and something to believe in,” said Cruz in the epilogue of his new book. Famous for his amazing plays as a wide receiver as well as his post-touchdown salsa moves, Cruz partied like a rock star to celebrate his book launch alongside an array of celebs and friends who included rap music artist Wale, singer/actor Josh Groban, Eric Benet, “Empire Girls”stars Julissa Bermudez and Adrienne Bailon, DJ Kiss, DJ Clark Kent, Peter Rosenberg, K. Foxx, Joell Ortiz, Jeannette Jenkins and DJ M.O.S. (Photos by Jerritt Clark.)

Paul Hamann, President and CEO of The Night Ministry, was honored as a Champion of Change by the White House on July 12th as one of 13 individuals who have made a difference in the way their communities combat homelessness among children and youth. The Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s “Winning the Future” initiative and, each week, a different sector is highlighted. Founded in 1976, The Night Ministry is a Chicago-based nonprofit that provides housing, healthcare and human connection to members of the community who are struggling with poverty or homelessness. Congrats Paul on this prestigious honor and keep up the great work!

The PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation hosted its 10th annual gala to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of 40 outstanding Greek-American college students. The 2012 recipients were inducted as members of the Foundation’s prestigious PanHellenic Honors Society, which now has 227 members. Chairman and Founder of the PHSF Chris Tomaras welcomed more than 450 guests to this event that featured Academy Award winning filmmaker Alexander Payne as the Paradigm Recipient. WGN-TV’s film critic Dean Richards served as Master of Ceremonies while renowned Greek singer/songwriter Petros Gaitanos provided star quality entertainment during the evening’s festivities at the Merle Reskin Theater and Hilton Chicago. For more info about this passionate organization, please visit the Foundation's website. Congrats and good luck to this year’s deserving honorees!

Don’t miss this year’s Art in the Garden soiree on Saturday, August 11th, at La Paloma Gardens, located at 3622 Brookview Road in Rockford. (It’s worth the trip!) Hosted by longtime patron of the arts and passionate gardener Karen Harding along with Lon and Dick Behr and Sharyn and Joe Castrogiovanni, the party will include en plein a
ir cocktails and hors d’ouevres beginning at 6 p.m., a seated dinner by Jewell Events Catering at 7:30 p.m. and music provided by Clutch Cargo. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Rockford Art Museum, the event’s beneficiary. (For more info, please click here.)

Thanks to Margaret O’Connor for our first look at the blockbuster film, "The Dark Knight Rises"! The premiere was hosted by WGN at Navy Pier’s IMAX Theater with guests who included Chicago Bears players Charles Tillman (with his wife, Jackie) and Israel Idonije, former Bears players Anthony Adams and Jerry Azuma, Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan and JP Anderson, David Martinez (one of seven final remaining finalists on FOX’s “Master Chef”), Kelli Zink, Charley Jordan, DC Crenshaw, Katie and Jason McLenaghan and Jennifer Sutton. I also saw expert film critic/friend Geoff Burton, whose Cinema Trek movie reviews are always spot-on! He loved this movie and so did I! Thanks for this wonderful opportunity, Margaret!

Chuck and I were thrilled to participate in Kenmore LIVE’s recent taping of “Wisdom of the Ages.” This segment – which offered marriage advice from three couples ranging in age – is a prelude to their upcoming “Bridal Wave” series that will showcase all things wedding-related. Stay tuned for more info and congrats to Judy Faulkner Krause on another sure-to-be-a-hit internet show!

Beam’s VP of Human Resources Tom Strehle is a HUGE baseball fan! His collection of memorabilia would rival Cooperstown’s and, recently, he had the thrill of a lifetime throwing out the first pitch at the recent Cubs game against the Arizona Diamondbacks thanks to his good friend, Kerry Wood! He threw a perfect strike (or at least this is what he told me!) and I’m so happy for him. Not only is he a Cubs fan but his charitable contributions make him someone very, very special on top of it!

And finally, happy 50th anniversary to the loving and lovable couple, Angela and Paul Murges! Their darling only daughter, Giana Pisellini, along with Kathy O’Malley Piccone, planned a surprise party at Gibson’s that they’ll never forget! Even though Angela balked at going out on a Sunday, Giana finally convinced her by telling her they were just meeting Kathy for an anniversary drink. The hard work was getting Angela up the stairs, which Kathy did brilliantly by asking her to look at the balcony being planned for the second floor (which is true, BTW). Loving longtime friends included Skip Pope, Jerry Ranalli, Irv Solganik (the Judge), Leah and Jack Bowman, Barb and Gene Compari, Rich Gregorin, Giana’s cute husband Preston and us. Here’s to another 50, Ang and Paulie! Love you! (Check out more fun pics here!)

I’m really enjoying the dog days of summer and I hope you are, too! I also hope you’re checking out my Candid Candace column in Sunday’s Tribune Magazine! And remember to take a peek at the Tribune’s online column, too, since it contains a LOT more pics and an unedited version of my party coverage!

Love you, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Hope to see you at one or both of these great events on Friday night!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as A.V. Shinde, Abby Zanarini, Adrienne Bailon, Alain Delon, Alain Miloti, Alexander Payne, Allstate, Alpana Singh, Ami Connolly, Andrea Bocelli, Angela Murges, Ann Benjamin, Anne Pramaggiore, Anthony Adams, Anthony Ledru, Art in the Garden, Barb Compari, Barbara Higgins, Beam, Beth Levin, Bill Hood, Blake Benjamin, Bob Carl, Bob Loquercio, Bob Zentner, BoBo House, Bridal Wave, Bridget Campbell, Brigitte Bardot, Bruce Crown, Bruce Springsteen, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Champions of Change, Charity Navigator, Charlene McCord, Charles Tillman, Charley Jordan, Charlie Besser, Charlie Huebner, Chefs & the City, Cheri Lawrence, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine, Chris Tomaras, Cinema Trek, Clutch Cargo, ComEd, Connie’s Pizza, Cynthia Holbrook, Cynthia Polayes, Dan Uslan, Daniel Glynn, David Martinez, DC Crenshaw, Dean Richards, Deborah Crown, Debra Beck, Dick Behr, DJ Clark Kent, DJ Kiss, DJ M.O.S., Donna Rigert, Doug Regan, Dr. Tara Clack, Eloise Lapidus, Event Creative, Field Museum, Field Museum’s Women’s Board, Four Seasons, Francoise Hardy, Gale Gottlieb, Gene Compari, Geoff Burton, Giana Pisellini, Guggenheim, Holly Geraci, Howard Tullman, Ira Sheck, Irv Solganik, Israel Idonije, J&L Catering, J.N. Pritzker, Jack Bowman, Jackie Tillman, Janet Owen, Jason Mclenaghan, Jay Gottlieb, Jeannette Jenkins, Jeff Shea, Jeffrey Foster, Jennifer Caruso, Jennifer Sutton, Jerritt Clark, Jerry Azuma, Jerry Tanalli, Jewell Events Catering, Jimmy Meyer, Joakim Noah, Joan Cusack, Joe Castrogiovanni, Joell Ortiz, John Alexander, John Caruso, John Derian, John Lennon, John Reilly, Josh Groban, JP Anderson, Judy Faulkner Krause, Judy Tullman, Julia Nash, K. Foxx, Karen Harding, Kathy Brock, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Katie Mclenaghan, Kelli Zink, Ken Norgan, Kenmore LIVE, Kerry Wood, Kevin Bell, Kevin Connolly, Kimbra Walter, La Paloma Gardens, Leah Bowman, Leslie Zentner, Lisa Dent, Liz Sharp, Lollapalooza, Lon Behr, Lurie Children's Hospital, Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic, Marcus Lemonis, Margaret O’Connor, Mark Bell, Mark Walter, Martin Beck, Mary Ann Young, Master Chef, Master’s, Matthew Campbell, Michael Rigert, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Myra Reilly, Nancy Timmers, New York Giants, Out of the Blue, PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation, Paul Hamann, Paul Iacono, Paul Murges, Paula Fasseas, PAWS Chicago, PAWS Chicago Beach Party, Peter Francis Geraci, Peter Rogers, Peter Rosenberg, Petros Gaitanos, Pinkberry, President Obama, Preston Pisellini, Pritzker Military Library, Randolph Street Market, Rebecca Besser, Reema Keswani, Renata Block, Rich Gregorin, Robert Block, Rockford Art Museum, Rodger Owen, Ryder Cup, Sharyn Castrogiovanni, Sherren Leigh, Skip Pope, Spoken Four, Steve Beard, Steve Starr, Susan Clack, Susan Clark McBride, Susan Regenstein, Suzanne Meder, Tawani Foundation, Ted Lapidus, The Dark Knight Rises, The Great Catsby, The Night Ministry, The Village People, Tina Koegel, Tom Strehle, Tonja Hall, Tracey Benford, US99, Veronica Zepeda, Vicki Hood, Victor Cruz, Violet Dominek, Virginia Stafman, Watch312.com, Wendy Beard, Wendy Chronister, Wendy Krimins, White Party, William Holdeman, Winning the Future, Wisdom of the Ages, Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo, Zoo Ball

July 16, 2012 · 11:09 am

ARETHA FRANKLIN WOWS N’DIGO GALA CROWD

…PLUS WINDY CITY LIVE’S EXCLUSIVE CELEBRATION, ELI’S BAKES BIG CAKES, CUPID'S ARROWS FIND HEDY AND LAURIE, WORLD’S LARGEST BLOCK PARTY, MARCO'S BENEFIT FOR ONE HOPE UNITED, UPCOMING EVENTS, PEOPLE IN THE NEWS, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

I knew she was called the “Queen of Soul” and I certainly loved her music but it wasn’t until I attended the 17th annual N’Digo Gala that I realized WHY she IS the Queen! This event was something special. First of all, I adore N’Digo Magazine publisher/founder Hermene Hartman. She is a one woman dynamo who loves her community and is the pure definition of giving back with her N’Digo Foundation, which she founded in 1995. This foundation awards merit-based college scholarships to students from Chicago and the suburbs and, to date, has awarded 286. Hermene’s friends and fans are legion and her Gala always includes top notch entertainment plus fun-loving, well-dressed attendees. In years past, performers including Babyface, Ray Charles (with a full orchestra), Jerry Butler and Nancy Wilson, Gladys Knight, Natalie Cole, George Benson, Ledisi and Seal have all appeared at this event. More than 1,500 guests turned out to celebrate the 50th anniversary of soul music as well as to support the foundation at this black-tie gala themed “Legends de Soul.” The dynamic and inspiring program began with hosts Hermene and NBC’s Art Norman welcoming the crowd. Hermene introduced a video showcasing past scholarship recipients and what they’re doing now, saying, “These are the youths who’ve done it their way and are now living their dreams.” It was a wonderful confirmation of the good that this organization does. The 2012 winners were introduced onstage as Pastor Charles Jenkins and the choir of Fellowship Chicago Baptist Church performed their hit song, “Awesome.” Music legends The Impressions took the stage as the concert began at 7 p.m. wowing the audiences with their infectious energy as well as their classic songs that included “Gypsy Woman” and “Super Fly,” which was an homage to the late great Curtis Mayfield. Comedian Jonathan Slocumb – a favorite of Ms. Franklin for his clean-cut style – had the crowd in stitches especially during his impersonation of Reverend Jesse Jackson who happened to be coming down the aisle at the same time. Arie Crown Theater was filled to capacity when the Queen took the stage and announced, “Hello Chicago, here I am!” Before her performance, Michelle Boone, the Mayor’s Cultural Commissioner, proclaimed June 30th to be Aretha Franklin Day in Chicago – it’s good to be Queen! She performed tirelessly for at least two straight hours, never leaving the stage. (The only concession was removing her shoes.) She looked great in a white gown embroidered with large pink/red flowers and her voice rocked the rafters as she sang hits such as “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher” and “Skylark.” She introduced “Skylark” after telling of being turned away from “The Ed Sullivan Show” at age 17 when they told her they had overbooked. She said, “This is the song I was going to sing.” She played the piano during a moving tribute to Whitney Houston as photos were shown overhead. “She was gracious, she was real and my Christian sister,” said Franklin of Houston. As the show continued, photos were also shown of Aretha with greats such as Stevie Wonder, Clive Davis, Don Cornelius, Smokey Robinson and Ray Charles among many others. I couldn’t believe the energy this 70-year-old woman had! It was an incredible history making moment as she finished her performance with “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” to standing ovations…oh what a night! Ms. Franklin has won 18 Grammys and is the first female to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I couldn’t believe she would allow anyone into her dressing room after this tiring performance (let alone me!) but she did and I will never forget it. My cameraman and photog were the only media allowed in her dressing room and I will be forever grateful to Hermene for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…check out my Watch312.com video below! But the party didn’t stop there, as guests moved onto the terrace for more refreshments, small bites and dancing – I even learned how to do the Wobble!! BTW, watch for N’Digo Magazine in your local Walgreen’s coming soon for just $1.00! Guests seen on the scene included Tom Ricketts, Albert Grace, Jr., Wayne Watson, Les Coney, Cassandra Gaddo, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, designer Quinton de’ Alexander, Art Norman, Rick O’Dell, Dionne Williams, Milton Carroll, Jocelyn Stoller, Reverend Helen Carry, Ernesto Borges, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Henderson, Reverend Jesse Jackson, KC McNeil and James Bell. (For more information about this wonderful N’Digo Foundation, click here!)

It’s one of my favorite shows and I’m so glad they're doing SO well! “Windy City Live” hosted its one-year anniversary on June 11th at Epic on Hubbard. I was expecting this by-invite-only party to be jam packed but it was the PERFECT number of people – not too many and not too few. Executive Producer Marlaine Selip explained, “We invited all of the people who’ve made this night possible, our family, our producers, our advertisers and our friends.” It was a joyous affair and the whole place was reserved for this party including their lovely rooftop bar area where everyone seemed to congregate on this perfect summer evening. A giant cake, courtesy of Eli’s Cheesecake, was the first thing guests saw as they entered the venue. Along with Marlaine, “WCL” hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini welcomed the crowd and thanked their many contributors. New General Manager John Idler was in the crowd and laughed as Ryan joked about having his 10-year contract drawn up and ready for him to sign. It was a loving group of supporters who were all there to cheer this great show on. Seen in the crowd were “WCL” Supervising Producer Cindy Patrasso, producer Emerald-Jane Hunter (with hubby Ronny), Dawn Watkins, “WCL” regulars Mark DeCarlo, Nina Chantelle, Hank Mendheim, Billy Dec and Roe Conn (with Barb), “Chicagolicious” stars AJ Johnson and Niki Robinson, winner of “The Bachelorette” Season 5 Ed Swiderski, Kathleen Henson, Debi Lilly, RJ and Jerrod Melman, Cub great Ernie Banks, Amy Tara Koch, Grant DePorter, Chef Kevin Hickey, Terri Hickey, Maureen Schulman, Steve Shern, Jess Altieri, Paul Bryant, Veronica Zepeda, Chuck, Lindsey Avner, Kevin Aeh, Erica Strama, DC Crenshaw, Margaret O’Connor, Jim Karas, Shea Vaughn, Dan Uslan, Lisa Ripson, Brook Jay, Graham Kostic, Nicole Pearl, Stephanie Krol, Nick Harkin, Carly Leviton and Rachel Gillman among many others! HUGE congrats and happy anniversary, “WCL” – Can’t wait to see the mountains you'll climb! (To see ALL the party pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here!)

Maureen and Marc Schulman have been very busy this week! Besides the "WCL" party, they also appeared at the opening of Taste of Chicago! Kelsey Grammer (Chicago Mayor Tom Kane on Starz original hit series “Boss”) performed some "mayoral" duties when he opened Taste by cutting a 1,000-pound Eli's Cheesecake in celebration of Chicago's 175th birthday and the 32nd birthday of Taste of Chicago AND Eli's Cheesecake. Restaurateur Eli Schulman debuted the cheesecake at the first Taste of Chicago in 1980. Grammer, along with the leads from “Rock of Ages,” led the crowd in "Happy Birthday." The cake was then served free to the public. Awwwwww… (Great pics by Jennifer Girard.)

Love was in the air for a popular and much-loved couple who “have been living in sin for the last 43 years," according to Hedy. Hedy Ratner, founder and co-president of the Women’s Business Development Center, and Mort Kaplan, of Morton H. Kaplan and Associates, finally tied the knot after fooling friends and family with a few false starts (some would call them pranks) for the last few years. Last year’s party celebrated Hedy’s birthday with a fake wedding but this time, the nuptials were for real. Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg wrote a delightful column on this remarkable and loving couple and in his interview, he asked them what had changed. “A couple of things,” said Mort. “I had a stroke in January and something happened in that period that I did not like. She wanted to get a prescription filled, and one doctor said, ‘Who are you? You’re the girlfriend.’ And I said, ‘She’s not the girlfriend!’ She was the quarterback of my recovery.” They were married on July 1st at Orchestra Hall. And they will CONTINUE TO live happily ever after! 🙂

Speaking of love, beautiful chanteuse Laurie Marchese is ENGAGED to longtime love, Bill Russ. Laurie lives in LA now but is originally from Oak Lawn and Bill, who also lives in LA, is from Aurora. Their love story could be a Hollywood movie: They met 30 years ago on the set of “Risky Business,” where Bill was an assistant to the producer and a stand-in for Tom Cruise, and Laurie was an extra in a crowd scene at the Highland Park Movie Theater. They had a whirlwind teenage romance and then parted ways as their careers moved in different directions. Fast forward to 2012 after fatefully reuniting, Bill arranged a surprise marriage proposal at the same theater where they met all those years ago and, of course, Laurie said YESSSSSSSSS!!!! Cupid’s arrows have hit their marks AGAIN!! Congrats Laurie and Bill!

The 28th annual World’s Largest Block Party for Old St. Pat’s was another blowout event with almost 18,000 people attending this two-day event in the parking lot across from the Church. This party is known for creating marriage matches and has connected dozens of attendees throughout the years. I was so thrilled to be a guest bartender along with Natalie Martinez, Dean Richards, Ravi Baichwal, Anthony Ponce, Stefan Holt, Marcus Riley, Borris Powell, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson, Jason Knowles, Aly Bockler and Andrea Metcalf. Proceeds support the church and the Center for Social Concerns on the Old St. Pat’s campus, which houses the following outreach programs: Horizons for Youth, Career Transitions Center of Chicago and the Global Alliance for Africa. Ben Folds Five and Lifehouse headlined the event. Watch312.com was THERE to cover all the fun – check it out below!!

Hope you can join me for the second annual White Party in support of One Hope United. Founded by handsome man-about-town Marco Foster, this night will also be a celebration of his birthday! Marco decided what better way to celebrate than to give back with 100 percent of all proceeds going to this wonderful charity whose mission is to protect children and strengthen families in Chicago. Hosted by Akira Chicago’s owner Jon Cotay, WGN’s “Living Healthy Chicago” host Jane Monzures, PR pioneer Chris Foltz and moi, this party with a purpose will be held on July 27th at Underground, located at 56 W. Illinois, from 9 to 11 p.m. Hope to see you there! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

Congrats to David Rothstein and his dynamic and talented music company on their 12-year anniversary! This versatile 11-piece orchestra has won numerous awards, performed for celebrities and Fortune 500 companies, and is regularly flown cross country for special events. And besides being such a talent, he has a big philanthropic heart, too! His “Share the Love” program is nothing short of genius. After weddings, instead of throwing away floral arrangements or begging guests to take them home, David delivers them to the nearest nursing home or women’s and children’s shelters. He has also made numerous charitable contributions of his musical talent. And on top of it all, this cute guy is single, too! (Ladies are you listening?) Anyway, I’m thrilled for his success and can’t wait to watch his star climb even higher! (For more info, please click here and for a sample of his work, see video below.)

After almost 17 years in the luxury and exotic automotive industry, handsome Sven Asmus has decided to pursue his passion. On July 11th, Hilton/Asmus Contemporary Art Gallery opened its doors at 716 N. Wells St. in Chicago’s River North Art District. His gallery will specialize in modern and contemporary paintings, limited edition graphics, glass art, sculpture and photography. A separate division, Art Travel Adventures, will arrange art-related trips throughout the world to places like Spain, Turkey and the Himalayas. For more info, please visit www.hilton-asmus.com. Congrats and good luck, Sven!

Congratulations are in order for Chicago’s own Sherren Leigh! The Arnstein & Lehr law firm is honoring the TCW magazine founder and publisher with its sixth annual Woman of Vision Award on behalf of her Today’s Chicago Woman Foundation, which is highlighting 30 charities for its 30th anniversary. One of these charities, the Chicago Battered Women’s Network is also supported by some of the firm’s attorneys who will be presenting a check earmarked for CBWN. For more info on the TCW Foundation, please click here and for info on CBWN, please click here.

Now for some up and coming Windy City events! This year’s Chicago Dancing Festival will begin on August 20th thru August 25th. Venues for this free-to-the-public festival will include Grant Park, MCA, Millennium Park, Harris Theater and the Auditorium Theater of Roosevelt University. Works will be presented by world class choreographers and performed by top dance companies from across the country. (For more info, please click here!)

Chefs & the City will be returning for its eighth year to the Ritz-Carlton on July 27th. Guests will enjoy savory fare presented by 26 of Chicago’s top chefs to benefit Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care which helps people impacted by HIV/AIDS. The VIP Reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and the Main Tasting at 7:30 p.m. DJ Megan Taylor will be mastering the mixes while Honorary Chairs Amanda Puck, Rich Varnes, Jason Dohmann and Chef Chair Ryan Pitts mix and mingle. There will be a live auction as well as a grand raffle. (For tickets, beginning at $250, visit www.vitalbridges.org.)

“Live.Love.Life: Where Grit Meets Glam,” hosted by WGN’s Jane Monzures, will be held at the Chicago Cultural Center on August 18th from 8 p.m. until midnight. This benefit for Northwestern Memorial Foundation will feature entertainment, fashion and sports all mixed into one philanthropic package! For more info, visit www.live-love-life.org.

Skyline Soiree will be held at the River East Art Center on July 27th from 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by the Associate Board of Ambassadors of the American Cancer Society, this party will include an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and live music by Final Say: A Maggie Speaks Band. For tickets, $95 in advance and $105 at the door, please visit www.skylinesoiree.org.

I am so happy Chuck and I got a chance to take a weekend getaway trip to Michigan – we were thrilled to spend time with good friends in fabulous spots! The lake was like glass and I even tried kayaking for the first time with friends Paul Iacono, Ken Norgan and Pepe Conforme. We also had a delicious dinner at fabulous caterer George Jewell’s Burscott Park estate and met uber-talented interior designer, Jim Dennen. (Friends if you need a designer, OMG call this guy – his home is completely and utterly gorgeous!) Thanks to all for a great time away from my computer, sort of! 🙂 (To view more pics, please click here!)

Well, I hope you’re having loads of summer fun and staying cool! Thanks for joining me again for another edition of my blogazine! If you’re so inclined, please follow me on Twitter and join my Facebook page, Candid Candace. Have a wonderful week!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Loved the pics Diane Edelman sent from her trip to Sapphire, North Carolina. “Every view was picture perfect. It’s incredible what God has created,” said Diane who had travelled there with her beloved Chadwick Randolph Cat IV. :)(To see all of these great pics, click here!)

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as AJ Johnson, Akira, Albert Grace, Aly Bockler, Amanda Puck, Amy Tara Koch, Andrea Metcalf, Anthony Ponce, Aretha Franklin, Arnstein & Lehr, Art Norman, Associate Board of Ambasadors of the American Cancer Society, Babyface, Ben Folds Five, Bill Russ, Billy Dec, Borris Powell, Brook Jay, Candace Jordan, Carly Leviton, Cassandra Gaddo, Chadwick Randolph Cat IV, Chefs & the City, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Chicago Battered Women’s Network, Chicago Dancing Festival, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicagolicious, Chris Foltz, Cindy Patrasso, Curtis Mayfield, Dan Uslan, David Rothstein, David Rothstein Orchestra, Dawn Watkins, DC Crenshaw, Dean Richards, Debi Lilly, designer Quinton de’ Alexander, Diane Edelman, Dionne Williams, Don Cornelius, Dori Wilson, Ed Swiderski, Eli's Cheesecake, Emarald-Jane Hunter, Epic, Eric Himel, Erica Strama, Ernesto Borges, Ernie Banks, Fellowship Chicago Baptist Church, Final Say, George Benson, George Jewell, Gladys Knight, Graham Kostic, Hank Mendhein, Hedy Ratner, Hermene Hartman, Highland Park Movie Theater, Hilton/Asmus Contemporary Art Gallery, James Bell, Jane Monzures, Jason Dohmann, Jason Knowles, Jennifer Girard, Jerrod Melman, Jerry Butler, Jim Dennen. Candid Candace, Jim Karas, Jocelyn Stoller, John Idler, Jon Cotay, Jonathan Slocumb, Jr., Kathleen Henson, KC McNeil, Kelsey Grammer, Ken Norgan, Kevin Aeh, Laurie Marchese, Ledisi, Les Coney, Lifehouse, Lindsey Avner, Lisa Ripson, Live.Love.Life: Where Grit Meets Glam, Maggie Speaks, Marc Shulman, Marco Foster, Marcus Riley, Margaret O’Connor, Mark DeCarlo, Marlaine Selip, Maureen Shulman, Megan Taylor, Michelle Boone, Mila Samokhina, Milton Carroll, Mort Kaplan, Morton H. Kaplan and Associates, Nancy Wilson, Natalie Cole, Natalie Martinez, N’Digo Foundation, N’Digo Gala, N’Digo Magazine, Neil Steinberg, Nick Harkin, Nicole Pearl, Niki Robinson, Nina Chantelle, Northwestern Memorial Foundation, One Hope United, Pastor Charles Jenkins, Paul Iacono, Pepe Conforme, Queen of Soul, Rachel Gillman, Ravi Baichwal, Ray Charles, Reverend Helen Carry, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Rich Varnes, Rick O’Dell, Risky Business, RJ Melman, Rock of Ages, Roe Conn, Ryan Chiaverini, Ryan Pitts, Sapphire North Carolina, Seal, Share the Love, Shea Vaughn, Sherren Leigh, Skyline Soiree, Smokey Robinson, Stefan Holt, Stephanie Krol, Steve Starr, Stevie Wonder Clive Davis, Sven Asmus, Taste of Chicago, TCW, The Bachelorette, The Impressions, Today’s Chicago Woman Foundation, Tom Cruise, Tom Ricketts, Underground, Val Warner, Victor Henderson, Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care, Watch312.com, Wayne Watson, White Party, Whitney Houston, Windy City Live, Woman of Vision Award, Women’s Business Development Center, World’s Largest Block Party for Old St. Pat’s

February 3, 2012 · 12:46 pm

WATCH312.COM: CHICAGO’S FIRST ONLINE NETWORK LAUNCHES BIG!

…PLUS THE JOFFREY AUXILIARY BOARD'S “POINTE OF DEPARTURE,” AWARD-WINNING CHICAGO HOTSPOTS, A COOL NEW RESTAURANT, A RESCUE ORGANIZATION WITH A NEW FOCUS, SAKS’ CHARITABLE BENT AND MORE!

Despite the fact that there were several high profile parties on the same night, the James Hotel was packed with friends who came out to celebrate the launch of Chicago’s online network, Watch312.com! The event was streamed live as well as filmed for my show, "Candid Candace Chicago" (see video at end of segment) and the Red Carpet was continually packed with the crème de la crème of the city. And while I interviewed guests, other hosts worked the room talking up their shows. DC Crenshaw, host of “Chicago Unplugged,” interviewed fellow host and Prime House Executive Chef David Gresh for an upcoming segment for his show while Amanda Puck, host of “Dish It,” was fielding questions for her foodie-oriented show such as where do you go for a romantic Valentine’s dinner or what are the best brunch spots in town? Chef Rick Gresh’s show, “Chefs in the Kitchen,” will take you into the great kitchens of Chicago to meet some of our town’s greatest chefs. “4 X 4” host David Martin IV shows you four fun facts about your favorite places and events around Chicago. Master bakers Veronica and Mark Kwasigroch prepared the sweets for the evening and their show, “Dream Cakes,” teaches us the finer points of baking plus tips of the trade. Their cakes are now offered in over 15 Whole Foods stores as well as on their website, www.DreamCakesChicago.com. Watch312.com even covers the hot technology market in the Windy City with the talented hosts of "OverExposure TV." During the party, Tatiana Garrett (host of “Chicago Tails”) introduced some adorable dogs and cats that are available for adoption from the Anti-Cruelty Society. Her show will be a pet lover’s delight and will not only showcase darling pets waiting for their forever homes, but also the many ways Fido and Fluffy can make your lives healthier and happier. After cocktails, Red Carpet interviews and fabulous hors d’ouevres by Chef Gresh, the lights dimmed and the Watch312.com promo video aired. (See it here!) Then I had the privilege of introducing the brains behind the network, President Robert Mills. Bob began his career as a rock n’ roll DJ in Boston and quickly flew through the ranks into station management, eventually spanning major markets across the U.S. from LA to Chicago, NY and Boston. His track record for elevating ailing radio stations to number one market positions is legendary. Recognizing the need for well-trained broadcasters at all levels, he acquired the Ohio and Illinois Centers for Broadcasting as well as founding the Internet Streaming Corporation. He is a charming newlywed and a brilliant businessman with a quick wit. He also serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Chicago Loop Alliance and actively supports too many arts, civic and charitable organizations to mention. Watch 312.com’s Executive Producer Bill Natale is an Emmy award-winning producer/director and executive member of the Director’s Guild among many other media affiliations. Congrats to Director of Communications, Lindsay Hoey, who has worked tirelessly to bring Watch312.com to fruition, along with production director John Basile and his entire staff. Their hard work has paid off: The website is gorgeous and the programming is all on the right track. If you missed this exciting event, check it out here (on Watch312.com, of course!) and I hope you will keep your iPads, iPhones and eyeballs tuned into Watch312.com, which is available online 24/7! (Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available, too…just shoot me an email!) To see ALL of the party pics by Mila Samokhina and Helena Rafayen, 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%3D36877%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

Another hot event on this same night was presented by the Junior Auxiliary Board of the Joffrey Ballet, “Pointe of Departure.” A signature of this event is finding hot new venues and this year was no exception. Venue Six10 at the Spertus Institute offered a great atmosphere for this evening where stage and canvas collided. More than 430 guests attended this event that included artwork from contemporary to classic, all donated to benefit The Joffrey Ballet, with one piece selling for $2,500! Co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella planned a night to remember that raised over $33,000. DJ Sadie Woods kept the crowd fueled for fun along with delicious food catered by Wolfgang Puck. Stay tuned for next year’s event – every year is bigger than the last for this creative Joffrey Junior Board! (Fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

And is our town a winning city or what?! Huge congrats to RL Restaurant! They were recently honored by BusinessWeek as having one of the "Most Powerful Tables in America." There were only four mentioned (the others were Michael’s in NY, Terrace at Sunset Tower in LA and Prime One Twelve in Miami) and RL also nabbed Forbes honors for being one of the "Top 10 Tables in the Country for a Power Lunch." (Others included the Polo Lounge in LA and The Palm in Washington, D.C.) Table 68, here I come!

And speaking of wins, another huge congrats goes out to the Peninsula Chicago and Catering Director Greg Hyder! The Special Events Gala and the 11th Annual Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence both took place this past weekend and the Peninsula Chicago was honored to be nominated for various awards at each event. Greg took home the award for Best Event Produced by a Hotel in 2011 for their 10 Year Anniversary Party which, if you weren’t there, WAS BEYOND BELIEF! (Check it out here!) The Pen’s wine director Michael Muser also won Best Sommelier at the Jean Banchet Awards at the Fairmont Hotel Friday night. WOWZA!

There is also a huge restaurateur collaboration in the works for a country/western bar/restaurant concept coming to 435 N. Clark St. in the summer of 2012. RJ and Jerrod Melman have teamed up with Joe’s Bar owners Ed Warm and Tom DiSanto for what is sure to be a new hotspot. Expect to hear the best in country music (possibly live) while grabbing a beer and enjoying southern-inspired dishes and authentic barbecue! OMG, I will be waiting at the door! Congrats to these powerhouses and thanks for bringing even more excitement to our beloved Windy City!

Saks Fifth Avenue is hosting a BIG month for charity in February! Titled “Support Your Choice of Charities @Saks,” this event will run from Feb. 1st thru the 29th and offer customers the opportunity to donate 5% of their Saks card purchases to the Service Club of Chicago, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Pathways Foundation, A Better Chicago and Children's Memorial Hospital.

Yappy days are here again! You know what a nut I am about animals: I am proud to be on the PAWS Development Board and I support any other animal oriented events so it is with great pleasure that I tell you about my latest find: YOUNG AT HEART PET RESCUE! Devoted board member Arlene Burkhardt contacted me recently about their upcoming event in June but what I learned about this rescue group is that they are the only rescue in Chicagoland that is exclusively dedicated to rescuing and rehoming SENIOR DOGS AND CATS (aka animals over the age of 5). Now we all know it’s not as hard to find forever homes for puppies and kittens but what about those dogs with a little grey around the muzzle but whose hearts were young and whose love knew no bounds or cats who lounged around pretending to be hard of hearing until the whir of the can opener proved otherwise? THESE are the pets Young at Heart concentrates on and I am thrilled! Even when their medical needs prove too daunting for their adoption program, they are never turned away…instead, they find their happily ever after in one of YAH’s Sanctuary Homes. (Please visit www.yahpetrescue.com to find out more and mark your calendars now for their Wags to Wishes Auction Dinner & Benefit on June 16th at The Meadows Club.)

And now for an update on the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House! The Grand Opening will be on Tuesday, June 26th celebrated with a fabulous ceremony at the House and a FUN party so stay tuned for details. But, in the meantime, they need LOTS of volunteers to help them move in and set up the House during the first few weeks of June. Unpack, set up the kitchen and linen closets, bedrooms and library – just like moving into a new home, only this one will be 14 STORIES HIGH! Anyone interested, please call Anne at their Lincoln Park House at 773.348.5322. RMHC needs YOU! 🙂

I was so thrilled to be back on "Windy City Live" this week – the Chat Desk with Ryan and Val is the coolest place to be! My segment was cut short due to the untimely and sad death of Don Cornelius but I hope this just means they'll have me back! Thanks for a great time and a huge congrats to executive producer Marlaine Selip on this incredible show!

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8527113&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

Well, this is some of the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights! I hope you’re enjoying our unseasonable season and please check in next week when I will be bringing you Lyric Opera and exclusive Gene & Georgetti’s 70th Anniversary Party coverage plus a whole lot more!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Facebook winner Hope Bertram on her event suggestions! I hope you had a great time at the Launch Party!!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as 24/7, 4 X 4, Adrienne Samuels, Amanda Puck, Andrew Caravella, Anti-Cruelty Society, Arlene Burkhardt, Ashley Lobo, Best Hotel Event Produced by a Hotel Banquet Department, Bill Natale, BusinessWeek, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candid Candace Chicago, Carmen Rivera, Catie Keogh, Chef David Gresh, Chefs in the Kitchen, Chicago Loop Alliance, Chicago magazine, Chicago Tails, Chicago Unplugged, David Martin IV, DC Crenshaw, Deborah Arneson, Diane Crary, Director’s Guild, Dish It, DJ Sadie Woods, Dream Cakes, DreamCakesChicago.com, Ebony Magazine, Ed Warm, Emmy awards, Forbes, Gene & Georgetti, Greg Hyder, HappyAlmostFriday.com, Helena Rafayen, Hope Bertram, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, Ina Dorsey, Internet Streaming Corporation, James Hotel, JBar, Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence, Jerrod Melman, Joe’s Bar, Joffrey Ballet, Junior Auxiliary Board, Kohn Basile, LA, Lindsay Hoey, Lyric Opera, Mark Kwasigroch, Maven, Media Mavens, Miami, Michael Muser, Michael’s, Mila Samokhina, Most Powerful Tables in America, NYC, Ohio Center for Broadcasting, OverExposure TV, PAWS, Peninsula Chicago, Pointe of Departure, Polo Lounge, Prime House, Prime One Twelve, Rebecca Michuda, RJ Melman, RL restaurant, Robert Mills, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sarah Vargo, Service Club of Chicago, Support Your Choice of Charities @Saks, Table 68, Tatiana Garrett, TCW, Terrace at Sunset Tower, Terri Lee Ryan, The Meadows Club, The Palm, Tom DiSanto, Top 10 Tables in the Country for a Power Lunch, Venue Six10, Veronica Kwasigroch, Washington D.C., Watch312.com, Weekends with Whitney, Whitney Reynolds, Whole Foods, Wolfgang Puck, Young at Heart Pet Rescue

October 18, 2011 · 8:16 pm

STELLA FOSTER HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM CHICAGO JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

…PLUS JOFFREY DANCERS' PARTY FROM EMBARC, CHICAGO GOURMET'S GRAND AFFAIR, HECTOR MONARREZ FASHION SHOW, WATCH312.COM'S LAUNCH PARTY PLANS, ANTI-CRUELTY'S FUN FUNDRAISER, MARIANO'S FRESH MARKET ROCKS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The room was packed with more than 400 adoring fans and friends as the Chicago Journalists Association hosted its largest awards dinner yet for its 72nd annual event. No wonder!!! The Lifetime Achievement Award winner was none other than Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster! Even Governor Quinn had a hard time reaching the recipient to congratulate her since the crowd was packed wall to wall outside the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza. He said, “She has a lifetime ethic of service and when people want to get the word out, they know where to go! She’s got a BIG heart!” The CJA annually recognizes journalistic excellence and this year they honored many more deserving recipients. The evening began with Jimmy Damon singing the National Anthem followed by the invocation from Monsignor Kenneth Velo. He thanked “all of the journalists because they capture life in a day.” Emcees Karen Jordan and Christian Farr kept the night moving along as the award winners were announced. The CJA Dale Messick/Brenda Starr Award went to Tribune columnist Mary Schmich who shared the honor with artist June Brigman. The Chicago Journalist of the Year Award was presented to the Tribune’s arts and jazz critic, Howard Reich, who attended with his wife, Pam Becker, an editor at the Tribune. The award for Best Online Journalism went to Roger Ebert, with adoring wife Chaz accepting, for his popular blog. Sister 2 Sister Magazine founder Jamie Foster Brown – and Stella’s real life sister! – introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Estella Mae Foster. She spoke of Stella’s 34-year relationship with the legendary columnist, Irv Kupcinet, as his secretar
y and confidant. She said, “She’s irreverent and sassy and oh boy, is she opinionated. I love how people love my sister. From this sister to my sister, this is YOUR night!” After this, the crowd exploded, leaping to their feet to honor this beloved Chicago treasure. She said, “This has been such an outpouring of love…I love my family at the Sun-Times.” She started to name friends in the audience but realized the task would be too great. So she continued, “Kup, that was quite a person. What I loved about Kup, he loved writing. We were doing six columns a week except for Saturday and I loved every moment of it with him.” (Stella’s popular column – “Stella’s Column” – can be found every Tuesday and Thursday in the Sun-Times.) Stella’s award was followed by the Daniel Pearl Award which was given to CBS News’ chief foreign affairs correspondent, Lara Logan. Logan and her CBS crew were arrested and detained for a night by the Egyptian Army on Feb. 3, while covering the revolution there. She said the crew was blindfolded and handcuffed at gunpoint, and their driver beaten. They were advised to leave the country, but were later released. Since 2002, she had spent the next four years reporting from war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq for CBS News. Other Sarah Brown Boyden Award winners included Sun-Times’ John J. Kim (Photography), Sun-Times’ Francine Knowles, Kim Janssen and Sandra Guy (Business), WBEZ-FM’s Robert Wildeboer (Features), Tribune’s Dan Pompei (Sports), Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol, John J. Kim (Public Service), Tribune’s Joel Hood, Annie Sweeney and Stacy St. Clair (Spot News), Tribune’s Patricia Callahan and Trine Tsouderos (Science), Tribune’s Sam Roe and Jared Hopkins (Health), Sun-Times’ editorial page staff (Editorial Coverage), Tribune’s Michael Hawthorne (Investigative), AP’s Sharon Cohen (Best Series) and Best of the Best honors went to Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol and John J. Kim for their public service entry, “The No-Snitch Code.” It was an evening filled with familiar faces including Jimmy Rittenberg, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Alan Kaye, Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Israel Idonije, Juanita Jordan, Grant DePorter with daughter Margot, Hermene Hartman, Linda Yu, Joe Ahern, Linda Johnson Rice, Larry Wert, Otis Wilson, Hosea Sanders, John Colletti, Rich Varnes, Leah Hope, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Lisa Lenoir, Cheryl Burton, Mary Ann Childers and Jay Levine, Robert Jordan, Allison Payne, Christina and Lou Vasta, Tony Preckwinkle, Tim Evans, Chaz Ebert, Marion Brooks, LeeAnn Trotter, Father Ken Velo, Karen Jordan, Christian Farr, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, Robin Robinson, Dutchie Caray, George Daniels, Kathleen Henson, Diana Palomar Scott, Morene Dunn, Barry Axler, Courtney Nzeribe, Jamey and Melissa Sage Fadim, Tony Abruscato, Johnny Snickers, Margot DePorter, Cherie and Ernest Baker, Chris Ruys, Pam Becker, Tai Duncan, Devin Blackburn and Shell Reyes among many, many others. Congrats to all of the deserving honorees! What a great night for Chicago!

The 4th annual Chicago Gourmet was, yet again, a smashing success! Presented by title sponsor Bon Appétit in conjunction with the Illinois Restaurant Association and presenting sponsor Southern Wine & Spirits, this year’s event took place from September 23rd through 25th in Millennium Park and brought out a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees. The Kick-Off party, the popular Hamburger Hop, was held atop the Harris Theatre Rooftop and was the ultimate burger showdown with more than 17 determined competitors preparing their top burger dishes. Two chefs emerged victorious: Bandera Executive Chef Colleen McHugh received the judge-selected Allen Brothers Award presented by Todd Hatoff, president of sponsor Allen Brothers Steaks, and Executive Chef Steven Lawhorn of Palmer Place took home the People’s Choice Award for his “Benchmark Burger.” Other exciting activities surrounding Chicago Gourmet included cooking demos, book signings, food and wine seminars, Grand Cru Tastings, numerous gourmet tasting pavilions, and much more. Hundreds of renowned chefs participated including Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard, Tony Mantuano, Mary Sue Milliken, Jonathan Waxman and Ted Allen. Winemakers, premium spirit producers and brewmasters from around the world were also on hand to interact with the attendees. The event raised big money for the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), whose mission is to build the Illinois hospitality workforce through career exploration, workforce development and scholarships. Congrats to IRA’s Sheila O’Grady and her dedicated staff and supporters for another great year of Chicago Gourment!!! (Photos courtesy of David Ditzler and Jeff Schear.)

The Joffrey Ballet dancers are not only incredible artists but they are also dedicated fundraisers for worthy causes! EMBARC is a non-profit organization that provides unique cultural experiences and interactions to high school students from Chicago’s most socially and economically isolated neighborhoods. And in support of this worthy cause, the Joffrey Dancers have created a special event called “A New Movement.” This intimate evening will feature the dancers in their home, The Joffrey Tower (located at Randolph and State), where they will share their art for the cause, presenting six world premieres that the dancers have choreographed on their own time. The evening will also include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of J & L Catering, plus a silent auction with décor donated by Kehoe Designs. I hope you can join me and see these groundbreaking new pieces being performed in support of EMBARC. For tickets and more info, please click here. (One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to EMBARC’s programming!)

The Anti-Cruelty Society will be hosting its 11th annual It’s Raining Cats and Dogs Benefit on Friday, October 21st, from 7 – 11 PM at the Palmer House Hilton. This event, their second largest annual fundraiser, is sponsored by Chopper Trading, Hill’s Science Diet, RCN Cable and CS Magazine and will be emceed by NBC 5’s Andy Avalos. There will be more than 15 chef tastings, complimentary bars, live entertainment from The Ron Harris Music Group, a Panache Boutique fashion show, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, $5000 cash raffle, and of course, adorable adoptable cats and dogs serving as the host committee! Individual tickets are $175 in advance or $200 at the door. For more info and tickets, please call 312-645-8006 or visit www.itsrainingcatsanddogs.org.

Well, I guess there could be a cuter designer than Hector-Javier MonArrez but I don’t know who it would be! His beautiful Front Row 2012 Runway Show was held recently in the legendary Union League Club’s Crystal Room in front of a packed, appreciative audience. The evening began with a VIP champagne reception and then moved into the Crystal Room for the main event. Expertly produced by soon-to-be-wed Kimberly Palmisano (her soon-to-be-proud-hubby is hunky Wulf Kaal), the show featured glamorous Factor Models styled by Joseph Michael’s Salon. The show was hosted by NBC’s Zoraida Sambolin with music provided by DJ Konsept. And it wouldn’t be a party without seeing the Queen of Illustrations, Rosemary Fanti, who was there making everyone look much better than they really are! I loved Hector’s sassy designs and especially his copper colored leather- and fur-trimmed suit. His attention to detail is flawless and this collection highlighted his masterful skills. Congrats Hector! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…view ALL pics HERE!)

Mariano’s Fresh Market is hands-down my favorite grocery store in town! And not only because it generously donated $10,000 to Common Threads recently, but this event did give me the opportunity to see this brand new store for myself for the first time. I will tell you I’ve never seen so much beautiful food so lovingly arranged. While we were there accepting the check from owner, Bob Mariano (darling hubby of Nina DiFrisco), the staff burst spontaneously into song spelling out Mariano’s! I’ve never seen anything like it! The store brochure reads “We provide world-class neighborhood shopping at compelling prices. We are a full-service, complete destination grocery store that caters to family shoppers and foodies alike.” I am totally hooked. Congrats to Bob Mariano on this wonderful new concept that makes grocery shopping such an exciting experience! And thanks also to Bob and Roundy’s Supermarkets for their wonderful policy of always giving back to the communities they’re involved with. Check out Mariano’s for yourselves at 333 E. Benton Place. Welcome to Lakeshore East and thanks for the support on behalf of the kiddies of Common Threads!

Mark your calendars and save the date for Watch312.com’s Launch Party set for Wednesday, November 30th at the Joffrey Tower! See for yourselves the new shows being debuted and meet DC Crenshaw from “Chicago Unplugged” and Dr. Sandy Goldberg and co-host Scott Mackay from “LIVE! With Dr. Sandy.” Lots of surprises in store, too! In the meantime, check out my latest videos from the Green Tie Ball and the Chicago Beach Polo Matches…more fun than the law allows! 🙂

I still haven’t made it to that pumpkin patch, sadly. I am still hopeful the weather will hold so until I get there, here’s a video to remind us all that “The Time is Now!”

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Check out this great pic of Chef Art Smith’s latest restaurant, Southern Art & Bourbon Bar, at 3315 Peachtree Road in Atlanta! Rhonda Sanderson reports it was some of the best fried chicken she’s ever had…so now we know!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as A New Movement, Alan Kaye, Allen Brothers Steaks, Allison Payne, Andy Avalos, Annie Sweeney, Anti-Cruelty Society, Art Smith, Barry Axler, Bill Van Dahm, Bob Mariano, Bon Appetit, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Celeste Van Dahm, Chaz Ebert, Cherie Baker, Cheryl Burton, Chicago Beach Polo, Chicago Gourmet, Chicago Journalists Association, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Chopper Trading, Chris Ruys, Christian Farr, Christina Vasta, Colleen McHugh, Common Threads, Courtney Nzeribe, CS Magazine, Dan Pompei, David Ditzler, DC Crenshaw, Devin Blackburn, Diana Palomar Scott, DJ Konsept, Dori Wilson, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Dutchie Caray, EMBARC, Ernest Baker, Estella Mae Foster, Factor models, Francine Knowles, Frank Main, Front Row 2012 Runway Show, George Daniels, Governor Quinn, Grant DePorter, Green Tie Ball, Hamburger Hop, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Hermene Hartman, Hill’s Science Diet, Hosea Sanders, Howard Reich, Illinois Restaurant Association, Irv Kupcinet, Israel Idonije, J&L Catering, Jamey Sage Fadim, Jamie Foster Brown, Jared Hopkins, Jay Levine, Jeff Schear, Jimmy Damon, Jimmy Rittenberg, Joe Ahern, Joel Hood, Joffrey Ballet, John Colletti, John J. Kim, Johnny Snickers, Jonathan Waxman, Joseph Michael’s Salon, Joy Germont, Juanita Jordan, June Brigman, Karen Jordan, Kathleen Henson, Kehoe Designs, Kim Janssen, Kimberly Palmisano, Lara Logan, Larry Wert, Leah Hope, LeeAnn Trotter, Linda Johnson Rice, Linda Yu, Lisa Lenoir, Lou Vasta, Margot DePorter, Mariano’s Fresh Market, Marion Brooks, Mark Konkol, Mary Ann Childers, Mary Schmich, Mary Sue Milliken, Melissa Sage Fadim, Merri Dee, Michael Hawthorne, Millennium Park, Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Morene Dunn, Nina DiFrisco, Otis Wilson, Palmer Place, Pam Becker, Panache Boutique, Patricia Callahan, Peggy Lombardo, RCN Cable, Rhonda Sanderson, Rich Varnes, Rick Bayless, Rob Johnson, Robert Jordan, Robert Wildeboer, Robin Robinson, Roger Ebert, Ron Harris Music Group, Rosemary Fanti, Sam Roe, Sandra Guy, Scott Mackay, Sharon Cohen, Sheila O’Grady, Shell Reyes, Southern Art & Bourbon Bar, Southern Wine & Spirits, Stacy St. Clair, Stella Foster, Stephanie Izard, Steve Lombardo, Steve Starr, Steven Lawhorn, Tai Duncan, Ted Allen, Tim Evans, Todd Hatoff, Toni Preckwinkle, Tony Abruscato, Tony Mantuano, Trine Tsouderos, Watch312.com, Wulf Kaal, Zoraida Sambolin

July 26, 2011 · 12:42 pm

TWO CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS HOLD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS: GENE & GEORGETTI AND KATHY O’MALLEY!

Gene & Georgetti owners, Marion and Tony Durpetti, welcomed hundreds of guests over the course of three days as they recently celebrated the 70th anniversary of their legendary restaurant located at 500 N. Franklin. For this momentous occasion, they featured 1940’s décor and offered a prix-fixe, four course menu with old-time favorites that included stuffed celery, minestrone soup, mostaccioli, anchovy canapés, broiled strips, filets and pork chops, chicken Vesuvio and whitefish. Sides included sautéed spinach, broiled mushrooms and cottage fried potatoes. The entire bill (excluding tax and gratuity) was only $15.25. You can certainly see why reservations went faster than Paul McCartney tickets. Guests were seen sipping Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, Rob Roys and Hiballs as they enjoyed the Lucille Ball, Carmen Miranda, Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and Veronica Lake impersonators. Magician David Kovac enchanted the crowd before the big band, Sway, began at 8:30 with a cake cutting ceremony that included all of the guests. General Manager, Richard Ciota, said, “I don’t work a day in my life. These guys are like my family.” The restaurant served 1,100 lunches and dinners each day and night with ALL proceeds benefitting Common Threads, The Standing Tall Foundation and St. Vincent DePaul Center. Congrats also to Tony and Marion’s daughter, Michelle, for planning and promoting this great three-day celebration for wonderful causes!

Chicago’s Hostess with the Mostest, Kathy O’Malley Piccone, celebrated her 50th birthday in grand style at Moe’s Cantina recently. We have been friends for years and years (truth be known, since Faces days…all of you over 50 will know what I mean!) and she has always been one of the nicest people I know. It’s no wonder Gibson’s is so very successful having her at the front desk meeting and greeting every customer like they are long lost friends. And, in many cases, they are! She’s been featured on the cover of TCW in their “Powerful Women” issue and in many other articles and publications. She should’ve run for Mayor! Her long-time friend, BJ Murray, had been at Moe’s all day inputting tons of photos which were shown on the multiple video screens throughout the venue. Hundreds of friends showed up and stayed into the wee hours of the morning. Long may she reign! Love you Kath! Happy BD!!! (To view more party pics, most by Steve Starr, click here.)

Old St. Pat’s recently celebrated two days of music, food and fun at their 27th Annual World’s Largest Block Party. This is one of the most anticipated events of the summer with almost 20,000 people attending this year. Dubbed the “party with a purpose,” this event featured music by Farraday, Plain White T’s, Cobra Starship, Out for Hours, Spazmatics, No Love for Linus, Matt Nathanson and Barenaked Ladies. The food stands held all of the expected delights of a summer festival and then some including BBQ from Robinson’s Ribs, rotisserie chicken and pork and corn on the cob from Nicholas Quality Meats, Good Humor ice cream, Quang Noodles’ crab Rangoon, pad Thai and shrimp fried rice, burgers and brats from Old St. Pat's Grill & Bones Grill, funnel cakes, foot-long corn dogs, Wisconsin cheddar cheese curds and coconut shrimp from Suzie’s Fun Foods and Connie’s Pizza. In a word, heaven! As one of the celebrity bartenders, I even learned how to pour a perfect cup of beer! FYI, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy was a run away winner! Other celeb bartenders included Windy City Live’s Ryan Chiaverini, NBC 5 reporter Anthony Ponce, Fox 32 meteorologist Tammie Souza, Fox 32 reporter and anchor Kori Chambers, WGN-TV anchor Lourdes Duarte and ABC 7 reporter John Garcia among others. This event is also a matchmaker’s dream come true having introduced 102 couples, who are now married, after meeting at this Block Party! So mark your calendars now for next year…maybe YOU could be next!!! Proceeds from this event goes towards Old St. Pat’s dozens of global outreach programs. (To view ALL pics, with additional photos by Gary Chang, please click here).

Four hundred guests dressed in their Sunday best to attend Bright Pink's "For the Women We Love" high tea celebration. Celeb TV's Kelli Zink emceed the fourth annual benefit, which raised over $80,000, and also included musical entertainment by former Broadway performer, Laurie Akers, who sang Rascal Flatts' "I Won't Let Go." There were heartfelt and empowering stories from young women in the Bright Pink community as well as the presentation of the "Bright Impact Award" which was presented to Carolyn Brundage, the founder of Pretty City. This successful entrepreneur and beauty columnist has raised nearly $100,000 through her "Pretty in Pink" campaign which benefits breast cancer charities. Bright Pink founder, Lindsay Avner, has created much needed awareness with her organization that supports, enlightens and empowers young women to be proactive with their breast and ovarian health. To learn more and for donations, please visit www.bebrightpink.org. (To view ALL event pics by Steve Feferman, please click here!)

Congrats to another great year for PAWS! Their 9th Annual All Paws on Deck Beach Party was a tail-wagging success! US99’s Lisa Dent, who was the emcee again this year, auctioned off some exciting packages that included two tickets to “Dancing With the Stars” (won again this year by Tails in the City’s Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh). Judy and Howard Tullman won the right to showcase their five “kids” next year in the always hotly anticipated PAWS poster. This year’s benefit was chaired by Nancy and Ron Officer along with Dawn and Jim O’Neal. PAWS founder, Paula Fasseas, welcomed guests Deborah and Bruce Crown, last year’s co-chair Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Kim Gleeson, Alexis Fasseas, Kathy Hinton, Christine and John Mallul, Carol and John Walter, Carole Mack, Gigi Ross, Sue and Wes Dixon, Dr. Barbara Royal, Colleen Garard, Lindsay Carlton, Len Goodman, Angie DeMars and Cheri Lawrence to name a few. Presenting sponsors included North Community Bank, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock and Pomellato. This event raised $212,000 this year. Congrats PAWS and keep up the good work in support of our beloved four-legged friends! Mark your calendars now for the Fur Ball coming to the Drake Hotel on Friday, November 11th. For tickets and more info, please visit www.pawschicago.org.

The Service Club of Chicago’s “Day on the Terrace” luncheon and fashion show is just around the corner, August 1st, and I hope you all have your tickets for this 25th annual event which promises to be a show stopping fashion extravaganza featuring real women and men wearing the best Fall 2011 fashions from Chicago’s premier retailers. Participating stores include Escada, Intermix, Luca Luca, Tory Burch, Paul Stuart, Lulu’s at the Belle Kay, Saks Fifth Avenue Men, Mark Shale Women’s and Men’s and a finale presented by Neiman Marcus that will include selections from their evening wear and fur collections. The event, which will be held at the Peninsula, was the first event ever held at this hotel when it first opened 10 years ago. Fashion Chairs include Jean Antoniou, Tracey Di Buono and Hazel Barr. Look for some celebrity guest appearances, too! All proceeds from this popular event benefits the Service Club, which supports grants established by government or corporate entities. Tickets are $175. For tix and more info, please call Jean Antoniou at 630.564.5700.

Congrats to UBS for giving back! Two hundred UBS volunteers participated for the Special Olympics Softball Competition Day at Grant Park this year. This is the 13th year that UBS volunteers have totally produced the two days of fun activities supporting Special Olympic athletes. UBS Head of Community Affairs, Patrick Sheahan, said, “It’s a very fulfilling and rewarding event. Every athlete is a winner and every athlete walks away with a medal.” This year, there were more than 750 participants. Congrats to UBS for being such an excellent example of corporate responsibility!

Step Up Women’s Network will launch its first signature event in Chicago, “Shine & Dine,” on Thursday, August 18th, at Galleria Marchetti beginning at 6 PM. The evening will feature philanthropy and seasonal fare from Chicago’s hottest restaurants while welcoming 400 local professionals and notables. Valerie Warner, co-host of Windy City Live, will serve as Honorary Charo for this inaugural event. Step Up 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.” I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please visit www.suwn.org.

Congrats are in order for friends Leslie Hindman, Amanda Puck and Debra Baum! Leslie had a fantastic half-page article by Melissa Harris in Sunday’s Tribune about her expanding business empire! She will be opening up new locations in Palm Beach and Milwaukee (she recently opened in Naples, too) and she’s busier than ever! Amanda has started a food blog and it’s fantastic! Who better to write about food than AMANDA?! And last but not least, Debra also has a new website devoted to health issues for women over 30. It will have daily updates with a dose of humor!

Good luck and congrats to one and all!!! I hope you are enjoying my new column in the Chicago Tribune called “Chicago Scene.” I am so proud to be the new social columnist for this venerable newspaper that has just been through a major overhaul! My column appears weekly in the Sunday Magazine section, full page, full color! 🙂

And lastly, the launch is coming soon for www.Watch312.com, an online network of Chicago-centric shows! This network and its team of experts from Illinois Center for Broadcasting will provide viewers with a portal connecting them to everything Windy City! DC Crenshaw’s show, "Chicago Unplugged," covers the restaurant scene from top to bottom and everything in-between while Dr. Sandy Goldberg’s call-in show, "LIVE! With Dr. Sandy," will address nutritional and health concerns in a non traditional yet informative way. Her co-host is radio veteran Scott Mackay. As the host for “Social Circles,” I will be bringing you a behind-the-scenes look into charity events, parties, movie premieres, celebrities, nightlife and more! Check it out and let me know what you think! We are still in the early stages with lots of tweaking to do but I wanted to make you aware of all of the excitement to come!!! 🙂

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

And THAT is the lowdown on Chicago’s MANY highlights for this week! Hope to “see” you next week, same time, same place!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here is an inspiring video that will put our petty, daily concerns in the right perspective. This young Chinese girl began playing the piano three years ago and she plays masterfully, despite the fact that she has no fingers on her right hand. Miracles are all around us if we just look for them.