Tag Archives: DJ Kiss

March 25, 2013 · 12:24 pm

“INSPIRING FASHION” COSTUME BALL: EVERYONE WAS A STAR!

…PLUS "FACE THE FUTURE" FOUNDATION GALA; URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL;” A BELOVED PR FIRM’S BIG KUDOS;“CELEBRATE YOURSELF HEALTHY;” GIULIANA AND LINDSAY'S BIG IDEA; A MODERN DAY LOVE STORY; CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; MADHATTER’S BRUNCH FOR BROADWAY YOUTH CENTER; A SAD GOODBYE; WCIU VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was one of the most beautiful events I’ve attended. Every guest who came through the front door of the Chicago History Museum looked like they were stepping out of the pages of Vogue – even emcee Bill Zwecker agreed
saying, “In all of the years, I don’t think I’ve seen a more glamorous, fashionable crowd.” From the moment you entered the building, you knew you were going to witness history. Beautiful models were stationed at every turn wearing the most dramatic fashions from the legendary Ebony Fashion Fair collection. They lined the staircases, draped languorously against
the walls and modeled on pedestals set up throughout the room. It was one night where you knew you had to find your best stuff to wear. Black tie wasn’t simply a suggestion – it was a mandate and everyone
dressed to impress. Eunice Johnson’s eye was unerring and she gravitated towards the bold and dramatic, much like I suspect she was as a person. After all, one would have to be to become the trailblazer she was for the African American community. She introduced
high couture to people who wouldn’t have otherwise seen it across the country and in spectacular fashion. She utilized top models who also represented her own sensibilities…other trailblazers like Iman and Pat Cleveland, two
of the first black supermodels. Pat Cleveland attended this event and I saw her as she entered the building: It was like I was watching a film in slow motion because she didn’t really walk in…she glided. (Her swanlike neck was still the same as I remembered it in all
of the top fashion magazines.) And that dress! OMG! It was pale pink with a train that stretched forever but she didn’t seem to notice. I would’ve been screaming at people to “watch my train” – the true mark of an amateur – but not Pat: As she posed for photos, you sensed a life in front of the cameras, someone completely comfortable in her own skin. Vogue’s international editor-at-large Hamish Bowles spotted
her, too (everyone did), and rushed to her side. As they chatted about goodness knows what, flashes were going off like crazy. It was definitely a “moment,” one of many for this fashion event of the season. One of
my favorite photogs, Bob Carl, was shooting this event and he told me not to miss the dramatic décor in the big tent where we would soon be dining so I headed downstairs and my breath rushed out of my body. Truly, I’ve never seen a more elegant room…all
done in shades of purple, design guru Tom Kehoe had truly outdone himself this time! From the “upside-down orchids” hung in huge squares at every table to the chandelier within a chandelier within another chandelier hanging from the
draped ceiling, you just didn’t know where to look first. As a matter of fact, when guests streamed in later, there was a huge bottleneck at the door as guests stood gaping. And this was all BEFORE I saw the amazing exhibition featuring more than 60 fashions from
the Ebony Fashion Fair! OMGoodness! Well, you’ve probably seen a lot of photos by now since I know people were posting and Instagramming like crazy while I was there and for good reason: These were some of the top pieces from the couture collection of Eunice Johnson and the Fashion Fair and they were awe inspiring in both their drama and creativity. My favorites were the Givenchy silver raffia
evening gown from 1997; the Christian Lacroix cocktail ensemble; the Jean Patou day ensemble (I would KILL for this outfit!); B Michael’s rainbow dress (he was there and so proud, and rightfully so!); Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld’s “shower dress”; Bob
Mackie’s evening ensemble with white feathers and silver beads; Henry Jackson’s black and white ball gown; and Emanuel Ungaro’s floral bridal gown from 1996. (Insert long, loving sigh here…) When guests finally sat down for dinner, emcee Bill Zwecker thanked the crowd and introduced Costume Council president Nena Ivon, who thanked the co-chairs and told an
adorable story about Tom Kehoe. She said, “We stayed within budget for our décor but Mr. Kehoe decided it wasn’t
enough, so he did more.” How cool is this guy?! When honorary chair for the event, Linda Johnson Rice, was finally introduced the standing ovation was thunderous. She was beautiful from head to toe with a twinkle in her eye that drew you in and everyone loved hearing the story behind this exhibition and how her mother put together this awe-inspiring collection. Linda also gave a shout-out to curator Joy Bivins and to
Dan Oliver saying, “He designed everything you see here – he knew my mother’s vision.” The Ebony Fashion Fair travelled across the country for 50 years raising
millions for African American charities. No one wanted the evening to end so DJs Kiss and Moss made sure guests danced, danced, danced the night away at yet another fabulous party in our Windy City…truly the FIRST city of fashion! (View more photos from this fab evening here!)

Transporting guests back to a time when all was glittering and decadent, the grand ballroom of the Four Seasons was decked out in Roaring Twenties décor for the Face the Future Foundation’s gala “Flappers, Fedoras and All That Jazz: A Night on the Toddlin' Town.” Guests
channeled the fashion sensibilities of the decade with gals in beaded headpieces, lace and fringed dresses adorned with long strands of pearls while guys sported fedoras and bow ties. Two massive Art Deco vases filled with white ostrich plumes graced the entrance of the foyer. Co-chairs Mary Genet and
Michael Judge welcomed more than 300 guests to this elegant affair that included an extensive silent auction and “gambling” at “Jimmy’s Place Casino.” Honorary Chair Chicago Bear Israel “Izzy” Idonije arrived looking dapper as always in a black suit and white shirt topped with a fedora. Other
guests included Dr. Mimis Cohen and his wife Andrea Biel Cohen, Dr. Paula Allen-Meares, Dr. Joe "Skip" Garcia, Dr. Dimitri Azar and Dr. Enrico Benedetti. As the doors swung open at 8:00 p.m., guests oohed and ahhhed over the softly lit golden hued décor while the Stanley Paul Orchestra played the tunes of the era from the Charleston to the Foxtrot in the
background. Emcee Dr. Sandra Goldberg of NBC 5 Chicago, welcomed guests and introduced Izzy. Foundation President Gus Abello presented the President’s Award to Jim Staples for his fundraising efforts and support of the Foundation. A live auction included a Venice/Paris
excursion of 11 days/10 nights with two nights in Venice, then overnight on the Orient Express into Paris to enjoy a full week in a luxurious Paris apartment (AWESOME!); an idyllic escape to Virgin Gorda, BVI, to spend a week at the Bitter End Yacht Club (I love Dana Hokin Garvey and her fabulous family who created this
amazing oasis); a romantic getaway with a Polynesian flair to the South Pacific for a Tahitian cruise aboard the small luxury ship m/s/ Paul Gauguin; and a wine cellar with more than 100 bottles of premium wines and champagne. The item that drew particularly fierce but friendly bidding was the week in a Tuscan villa for 12 people and a private chef. The generous donor of the villa offered the three top bidders the opportunity to each enjoy their own week. The live auction raised more than $100,000 with
another $60,000 in revenue coming from the Paddle Raise. (Event proceeds topped $340,000.) Michigan Avenue Magazine was the media sponsor for this wonderful event that raises funds and public awareness to support the care and treatment of children born with cleft lip, palate and other craniofacial abnormalities. The Center at UIC is one of the oldest and largest facilities of its kind in the USA. Click here for more info. (Photos by Jon Recana.)

Urban Gateways’ Art for All Gala was held March 8th at City Winery Chicago and attracted more than 300 people. Many prominent Chicago business and civic leaders attended including
Kay and Jim Mabie (who served as honorary chairs for the event), Francee Harrington, Richard Dent, Eunita Rushing and an honorary/advisory committee that included
Cheryl Mayberrry McKissack and Eric McKissack, Susan and Nick Pritzker and Dawoud Bey. This enchanting, art-filled evening supported Urban Gateways, one of the largest arts service providers in the city. Programs are led by some of the city’s most
talented professional artists in music, dance, theater, literary arts, visual arts and digital media, serving 57,000 students and teachers annually. The evening included cocktails, dinner, auction prizes and live performances by Urban Gateways performing groups: 20th Century Players and Chicago Improv Productions plus a special percussion performance by high school students from an Urban Gateways after-school program, a
presentation by Urban Gateways digital media student/filmmaker Michael Coleman and a gallery of
incredible student artwork. Urban Gateways educates and inspires young people by delivering high-quality, accessible arts experiences that advance their personal and academic growth. (For more info, please click here!)

Huge congrats to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting, Inc.! They were honored with THREE national public relations awards for non-profit communications account work recently at the 2013 PR News Nonprofit PR Awards luncheon at the National Press Club in
Washington, D.C. Henson Consulting, which celebrates its 12th anniversary this year, won in the high-profile Fundraising category, as well as in the areas of Event PR and PR on a Shoestring Budget. “Nothing is more gratifying than the work we do for our nonprofit
clients,” said HC founder and CEO, Kathleen Henson. “By extending the reach of some of the country’s top charities and arts institutions, both locally and nationally, we’ve had the honor and privilege of being an integral part of
supporting families with sick children, creating awareness for amazing cultural experiences, and raising the profile of open hearted individuals among us. It is the most fulfilling work that we do as a firm, and to be honored for excellence
in this area is very, very special.” In 2011 in honor of the company’s 10th anniversary, Henson created a new division of Henson Consulting called HC3. This practice area is dedicated to providing public relations, marketing and communications support for organizations, companies and individuals that are “doing good while
doing well.” The client roster of HC3 also includes high-profile charitable work for TV personality Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue (supporting autism awareness), Bright Pink and Giuliana Rancic’s Fab-U-Wish (providing support to women battling breast
and ovarian cancer), Greg Olsen’s Kicks for a Cure (supporting breast cancer research) and Camp Kesem (providing magical camp experiences for children whose parents were touched by cancer), among others. Congrats to Kathleen and her team on these much deserved honors! 🙂

March 9th was a memorable evening for fitness and health maven Shea Vaughn and the dedicated friends and supporters of her cause, Healthy Initiative. “Celebrate Yourself Healthy” took place at Germania Place with hundreds of guests to honor the cause and its mission to promote better health
practices and fight disease. The launch of Healthy Initiative started with forty participants challenged to transform themselves in 90 days with the help nutritionists, personal trainers, mentors and lifestyle regimes. For those
people, March 9th was their special day, too: Each was showcased in designs from J-Na Couture and Mark Roscoe with hair by Custom Hair Lounge and makeup by Josie Volpentesta and Brenda Arelano. The night was hosted by Jeff Conway
of NBC’s 24/7, Jon Cotay of Akira and success coach Bill Walsh. This exciting evening included hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, live entertainment by David Rothstein Music, opera by reigning Miss Heart of Illinois Marisa Buchheit, laughter by comedian and writer Jennifer Weigle and a special key note speech by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, bestselling author of “Eat to Live” and wellness advocate often seen on “The Dr. Oz Show.” TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. Congrats on a great event Shea! For more info, please visit healthyinitiative.org.

“Cutest Couple” alert! Please add Kyla McCarthy and Tim Smithe, Jr. to the list of high profile cuties who are tying the knot this summer! Their blow-out engagement party attracted hundreds of fun-loving friends who were thrilled to
celebrate this special occasion with these beautiful/handsome lovebirds. They will be getting married on June 1st (which is Kyla’s grandparent’s 61st wedding anniversary) in Paris where they will say their vows at the Eiffel Tower! Awwwwwww…I love this!
Their families are thrilled beyond measure! Kyla’s beloved grandparents Victoria and Jack Bazarnick have passed but Tim’s grandmother, Florence Smithe, always wears Victoria’s pendant as a way of ensuring that she is always with them. (More awwwwws!) This is a true love
story made even sweeter by this big family, as four generations of Smithes have embraced Kyla and her family in such a beautiful way. I wish this for all brides and grooms-to-be. Kyla and Tim met over a year ago at CareerBuilder and it was
love at first sight. What Tim says about Kyla: “No matter how stubborn I am, she never quits on me and my faults. I always end up seeing the other side and becoming a better person, a more well-rounded man because she is a part of my life.” Kyla on Tim: “What I love most about my fiancé is his heart. He is
able to connect with any single person on the face of this earth as long as he gets the chance to. When we talk about our future, he talks about our children as if they’re already here (we will be waiting a few years for them) and he is always smiling. It’s his kind heart, and I know it’s my job to protect it.” Their famous fathers-in-law
have hit it off, too: Walter E. Smithe’s Tim Smithe, Sr. has this to say about Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy: “What more could a father ask than to have his son find a beautiful
woman who makes his boy so very happy? Kyla is the first new Smithe girl of this generation!” Once Tim Jr. asked for Kyla’s hand in marriage, her father said, “You know how to communicate with her, you understand her and I only wish you both the very best.” A graduate of Northeastern University with a double major in clinical psychology and philosophy and with a thesis in existential psychotherapy, Kyla would be a
dream match for any smart man – I’m just so thrilled she and Tim found each other. This soon-to-be wedding celebration was
held at Harry Caray’s Steakhouse (located at 33 W. Kinzie) and included Kimberly McCarthy, Joe Ahern, Deputy Superintendant Al Wysinger, Alderman Ed Burke, Grant DePorter, Mike Ditka, Steve McMichael, Casey Urlacher, Brad Parker, Kyle Badgley and Alex Najem
(American Junkie Chicago), RRP president Arturo Gomez, R.J. Melman, Jon and Andrew Landan, Matt Deichl, lots of family from both sides and so many more. I know it’s going to be an exciting and loving place in Ky-Tim’s World. Here’s wishing them the very best! 🙂 Don’t cha just love stories like this?

“E! News” anchor, “Fashion Police” host and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic is once again partnering with national non-profit Bright Pink to launch an exciting new philanthropic initiative: Fab-U-Wish. Fab-U-Wish, which made its debut online March 12th at FabUWish.org, provides young women battling breast and ovarian cancer with the opportunity to spend a day feeling
“fabulous” by living one of their wildest wishes or dreams. E! will serve as the official media partner of Fab-U-Wish. In 2011, Giuliana went through a public battle with an early stage breast cancer diagnosis, double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. During that challenging time, she relied heavily on the love and support of her husband of five years Bill
Rancic, family, close friends, colleagues, fans around the world and Bright Pink founder Lindsay Avner. However, it was the days of having her hair and make-up done at E!, putting on gorgeous designer gowns to interview celebrities on the red carpet or receiving the full Hollywood treatment that helped her feel more like a princess and less like a patient. She realized that her own special form of
“fab therapy” helped take her mind off her breast cancer battle and remain optimistic, rather than continuously focusing on her illness. “I’m grateful to be where I am today – a new mother, feeling strong and healthy and in a position to help other women now going through what I did,” said Giuliana. “Along with my friend Lindsay
Avner and the team at Bright Pink, I hope to pay it forward and become a “fairy godmother” to other women by establishing Fab-U-Wish. I sure know firsthand that a little bit of fabulous can go a long way to keep you feeling bright during some of the darkest days.” Applying for a Fab-U-Wish is simple: Women 45 and under currently undergoing treatment for breast and ovarian cancer can submit a 150-word essay or a two-minute video explaining their wish and how this one-of-a-kind indulgence would help bring some
brightness to them during treatment. Giuliana and Bright Pink will work together to review applications and select the most inspiring, creative, awesome, fabulous, and bright wishes to be granted each year, thanks to generous supporters and brands. To learn more about Fab-U-Wish and the official application details or to submit your wish, please visit FabUWish.org. Congrats to Giuliana on this wonderful idea and to Lindsay for all you do for so many!

Sad news to report! Former Joffrey Ballet Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway is relocating back to Los Angeles after his eight-year tenure with the dance company. As a personal friend, I will miss him
beyond measure but know this is a great opportunity for him. I met CCC at the very first Couture & Cocktails in September 2005. His twinkling eyes and whip-smart wit made everyone want to be his friend. I was lucky to have him as a dear one for so long! He changed the Joffrey in so many
immeasurable ways and helped make it the world class company it is today. He completed its $40 million capital campaign, he doubled annual giving to the company, he rebranded and reinvigorated the Joffrey
and created unprecedented media and corporate recognition, he recruited a new artistic team after the death of beloved founder Gerald Arpino, he helped design and build the Joffrey Tower (the first permanent headquarters for the company), he helped produce the 2012 hit
documentary “Mavericks of American Dance,” he launched the “Choreographers of Color” competition in 2010, he increased the Joffrey’s subscription base by 300 percent and he launched the Young Professional’s Board in 2009, among MANY other contributions. So as you can
see, besides being a CS Man of Style and a Paul Stuart Brand Ambassador, this man worked hard to make Chicago a better place for the arts and it will
be a lesser place without him in it. I wish you the best on your new journey CCC – don’t forget the people here who love you, like me! 🙂 BUT along with this bad news is good news for some lucky person looking for a charming 1928 English cottage home in Park Ridge. Christopher purchased this home for easy access to the airport and it’s now for sale and listed with Doug Smith of Rubloff/Prudential. (Check it out here.) We love you CCC and will miss you more than you can imagine!

The Chicago Flower & Garden Show’s preview party “Evening in Bloom” was a bloomin’ success (I know, I know!) and attracted hundreds of Chicagoans who had spring on their minds. Themed the “Art of Gardening,” this
year’s show benefitted several important charities including Chicago Gateway Green (a non-profit dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways), the
Peterson Garden Project (a volunteer non-profit committed to teaching people how to grow their own food), the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (a nonprofit that provides support and assistance to the families of
Chicago Police Officers killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty), the Kendall College Charitable Trust (a nonprofit dedicated to providing support for students in need who are enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs) and Special Olympics Chicago
(which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities). The preview event showcased nearly two dozen stunning display gardens as
well as original artworks. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Riva Restaurant, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet as well as sweets from Eli’s Cheesecake. Show director and president Tony Abruscato said, “This is
where patrons of the arts meet garden and environmental enthusiasts ready to paint the town green for a welcome return to spring.” Guests included Pat Brickhouse, Jim Althoff, Cathy Hull, Joanna and
Grant DePorter, artist Emmy Star Brown, Casey Schommer, Holly and Matt Murek, Amy and Jason Lundy, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Sa, Griffith, Sandy and Lee Golub, Albert Bautista, Pamela Fong and Sharon Ringier among many others. I never miss this beautiful event and love getting ideas for the garden! Congrats to all!

The Mad Hatter’s Brunch, a fundraising event to benefit youth programming and services at the Broadway Youth Center (BYC), will be held April 7th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the fabulous ZED451 in River North. This festive afternoon will allow guests to sport zany and outrageous hats while tasting delectable eclectic specialty dishes from a rich buffet-style spread. Nationally-recognized musical and comedy revue THE KINSEY SICKS – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet will be the featured entertainment. FYI, hats are NOT required to attend and all are welcome! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Special thanks to my sweet friends at WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” – we had a great time taping a segment recently at our home and I never wanted them to leave! If you missed it, here it is below. I especially love the surprise that co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman had for me at the end…how thoughtful are these peeps?! Love to producer Rob Morhaim, too! Just love this show!!!!!!

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Well, that’s it for this week’s Candid Candace! Please tell your friends and share!!! 🙂 And, as always, I hope you enjoyed the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. One of my oldest and dearest friends Ed Howlett just became a grandfather, thanks to his beautiful daughter Allison and handsome son-in-law, Josh Walters. Please welcome dear little Charlotte Lynn Walters to the world!

COMMON THREADS CELEBRATES 10 YEARS AT WORLD FEST!

…PLUS A PRITZKER BEV HILLS PARTY WITH BABS, WARREN, ANNETTE AND AL; GIULIANA’S CRYSTAL LIGHT LUNCHEON; PAWS’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM; MICHELLE’S NIGHT OUT; UNCORKED AT THE ART INSTITUTE; SHEDD’S STINGRAY AFFAIR; TCW’S HOT SINGLES PARTY; HERE COME THE BRIDES; “HOP AROUND THE SHOPS” FOR DOGGIES; ELDA’S BIG SHOW AT THE PEN; NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

Common Threads celebrated its seventh annual World Festival and the 10th anniversary of this beloved non-profit organization, an after school cooking program that hopes to get one million American kids moving away from fast food and toward healthy meals with their families by 2017. It’s a lofty goal but with the
dedication and passion shown by founders Chef Art Smith, artist Jesus Salgueiro and executive director Linda Novick O’Keefe, it is sure to happen sooner rather than later. World Festival is Common Threads’ largest fundraiser and growing bigger and better every year. This year, more than 65 top chefs gathered at
Soldier Field on March 4th to offer specialty dishes to more than 500 supporters. “Top Chef” judge/emcee Gail Simmons kicked off the event at Kendall College with a VIP experience. Thirty-five lucky guests enjoyed a trolley ride to Kendall where eight Small Threads from a Common Threads class were waiting
to show off their cooking skills. They prepared a mouthwatering nut- and dairy-free pesto with roasted fruit and ricotta parfaits with famed Chef Bill Telepan, who flew in from NY just for the occasion. As guests arrived at Soldier Field, you could feel the excitement of the crowd and smell the
delicious scents from the 65 chefs cooking their hearts out for CT. It truly showed the spirit of our chef community as they rallied together to help support the much needed programs of this organization. Participating chefs included Bill Kim (Urban Belly and
Belly Shack); Rey Villalobos (Table Fifty-Two); Jess De Guzman (Sunda); Takashi Yagihashi (Slurping Turtle); David Blonsky (Siena Tavern); Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno Due); Ming Tsai (Blue Ginger); Rick Tramonto (Restaurant R’evolution);
Floyd Cardoz (North End Grill); Alex Rosado (Post 154); David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach Post); Beverly Kim and so many more. I was proud to co-host this fabulous event with Hillshire’s Jon Harris and Beam Global’s Mindy Mackenzie. “This is a one-of-a-kind event where
our community of chefs, donors, sponsors, board members and many more are able to come together to support our students,” said Chef Art Smith. “That is the positive attitude and enthusiasm we saw all across Chicago World Festival on Monday that
made this event so inspiring and meaningful for everyone who participated.” It was announced earlier in the day that CT is committed to getting one million children cooking healthy meals by 2017. To kick-start this five year campaign and anniversary year, CT has been gathering diverse
groups of supporters through a series of mini-summits in Chicago, LA, Miami, NYC and Washington, D.C. to focus on ways they can work together to address these nutritional issues affecting America’s children. Walmart announced that it would provide a $720,000 grant to expand CT’s programming to 20 more schools in both
Chicago and Miami. WE LOVE WALMART!!! Prominent guests at World Festival included food photographer Stephen
Hamilton, celebrity chef and designer Jaime Laurita, Sausages by AmyLu’s Amy Kurzawski, FTS International Express, Inc.’s John Chiu, Michelin star chef Homaro Cantu, Rockit
Ranch Productions’ Billy Dec and 24/7’s Catie Keogh. Hot DJ Sye Young returned again this year with his sizzling mixes. As if this wasn’t enough, an after-party followed at the James Hotel! To learn more
about Common Threads and how you can become involved, please visit www.commonthreads.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina…to see ALL event pics, please click here and check out my new Watch312.com video below!)

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The UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability (IoES) presented its second annual “An Evening of Environmental Excellence” recognizing Al Gore and Lyn Lear at the Beverly Hills
home of Jeanne and Anthony N. Pritzker. More than 350 guests attended this star-studded event including Barbra Streisand, Warren Beatty, Annette Bening, Courteney Cox, Sumner Redstone, Jeff Goldblum, Zach Braff,
Larry King, JJ Abrams and Alan and Cindy Horn. IoES is an organization dedicated to generating knowledge and solving regional and global environmental problems and this event recognized the extraordinary
environmental feats of Al Gore (former VP and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate) and Lyn Lear (co-founder of the Environmental Media Association). Lawrence Bender, Sydney Holland, Alexandria Jackson, Anthony N. Pritzker and Tina Quinn chaired the event which featured special performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Jason Mraz and actress and comedian Sarah Silverman. Actress Amy Smart and TV personality
Carter Oosterhouse served as masters
of ceremonies. Auctioneer Grant Snyder hosted a unique live auction which featured a one-week stay in a private villa at the beachfront Amanpuri resort in Thailand; an autographed Fender Sting guitar with a meet and greet Sting concert package; an autographed Bruce Springsteen guitar; and a Verengo Solar custom-installed solar power system. The event raised more than $1 million to benefit IoES, whose mission is to generate knowledge and solve regional and global environmental problems. The IoES educates the next generation of professional and scientific leadership committed to the health of the planet and drives interdisciplinary environment and sustainability initiatives on campus. For more info, please click here! Wow, what a star-filled night in Bev Hills! Congrats to ALL for your environmental efforts – the planet loves you! (Photos by Vince Bucci…view more here!)

Giuliana Rancic “squeezed” in a fun brunch to toast the end of the award season in LA. Some of Hollywood’s top stylists and fashion insiders joined the “E! News” host and “Fashion Police” commentator for an elegant brunch on
February 26th at the swanky SLS Hotel in Hollywood to toast the top colors from this year’s award season. Hosted by Crystal Light Liquid and Rancic, guests sipped and sampled this brand new product that debuted during award season – a pocket-sized bottle that can be taken on the go to
squeeze into still and sparkling water to add flavor and vibrancy. Attendees were treated to a fashionable morning of mixing, mingling and celebrating the end of another star-studded and successful award season. Giuliana talked about the
Oscar episode of “Fashion Police” where she selected Anne Hathaway as her pick for worst dress and Jennifer Lawrence who rocked it as her top pick on the red carpet. Before sitting down at the breathtaking table adorned with vibrantly colored Crystal Light Liquid-colored flowers, Giuliana asked guests
to raise a glass in honor of all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to execute flawless red carpet looks. Giuliana gave a special toast to her eight-month pregnant celebrity stylist, Monica Rose, who also styles the Kardashian sisters. “Project Runway” alum and renowned fashion personality Nick Verreos also attended with his husband, David (the duo was spotted chatting with Giuliana about Verreos’ new fashion line, which is debuting later this spring) and celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik (with wife Liz) shared behind-the-scenes scoop from the Oscars (his celebrity clients include Beyonce, Zooey Deschanel and Anne Hathaway). Love Giuliana and I guess I have to try Crystal Light Liquid now, too! LOL!

On a related note, First Lady Michelle Obama and a girlfriend dined at Giuliana and Bill Rancic and the Melman family’s hotspot, RPM Italian. The duo enjoyed the light and modern Italian fare of
acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis (the P in RPM). As part of a three-state, two-day tour, Mrs. Obama was in the Windy City as she celebrated the third anniversary of her anti-obesity program Let’s Move! Entering the front door of the packed River North restaurant looking chic in all black, a surprised room of diners
erupted in applause while she waved to her fellow Chicagoans before entering a private dining room. After spending an hour and half in the restaurant, she stopped to thank Chef Psaltis and the Melmans for a wonderful meal. Diners applauded as she left, as well! The next morning, Mrs. Obama attended a special event to mark the occasion at McCormick Place alongside Chicago
Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Nike president Mark Parker, and Olympians Serena Williams and Gabby Douglas. Only in Chicago, baby! Love all of the excitement in our town! 🙂

More than 300 guests escorted by more than 80 pet companions gathered at Galleria Marchetti on February 22nd for an evening of dinner and dancing at PAWS Chicago’s Seventh Annual Animal Magnetism. The event,
which celebrates people and their pets, raised more than $90,000 – money which will go directly to saving the lives of Chicago’s homeless animals. Lucky pups in attendance indulged in a doggie buffet and “pupcakes” from Swirlz
while their human counterparts enjoyed a lovely dinner buffet, fabulous silent and live auctions, raffle, dancing and insight into their pet’s thoughts through animal communicator, Alicia
Halloran. Hosted by PAWS Chicago’s Professional Board and emceed by 103.5 KISS-FM Morning Show’s Angi Taylor and former Chicago Bear Jerry Azumah, this magnetic event was co-chaired by Ashley and Noah Pettit and Courtney
and Eric Weiler. In addition, Congressman Mike Quigley was honored for his extraordinary leadership in animal welfare through advocacy and legislative reform to address pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs, limit
high-volume breeding and impose harsher penalties for those who knowingly participate in animal fighting. The highlight of the evening was the live auction which raised thousands of dollars and featured items including luxury tickets to a Chicago Bulls game in the BMO Harris Club suite with a jersey and basketball signed by Joakim Noah, a culinary party for 10 with Chef Austin Yancy, a day on the set of the HGTV’s “Kitchen
Crashers” with host Alison Victoria and a VIP trip for two to Las Vegas. PAWS Chicago is committed to saving the lives of more than 6,000 homeless cats and dogs this year and will spay/neuter more than 18,000 pets, the majority of which are free for families in underserved communities. I LOVE THIS ORGANIZATION AND CONGRATS ON ANOTHER GREAT EVENT! (For more info, please visit www.PawsChicago.org.)

The Auxiliary Board of the Art Institute hosted its fourth annual “Uncorked: A Case for Wine,” a wine- and food-tasting event benefitting the Art Institute of Chicago recently. More than 250 guests arrived at The Casino Club in Chicago to participate in wine tasting as well as a live and silent auction. Auxiliary Board member of the Art Institute and executive vice president of Auctions by ATG Diana Peterson hosted both the live and silent auctions. This
year, the auctions brought in $84,275, an increase of $18,000 over last year’s total. All proceeds from the night’s events benefited the fabulous Art Institute of Chicago. Congrats to this dynamic Auxiliary Board on their fabulous fundraising efforts! To learn more, please click here!

Embrace your inner secret agent at Shedd Aquarium’s annual black tie gala. This year’s event, “Be Like Bond: The Stingray Affair,” will unveil a night of mystery and glamour set against a backdrop of breathtaking skyline views and vibrant hues of diverse aquatic life on June 8th from 6 p.m. to midnight at 1200 S. Lake Shore. Philanthropic revelers are
invited to sip cocktails (shaken, not stirred), dine among the fishes and dance the night away on Shedd’s lakeside terrace. An action-packed lineup of entertainment features an aquatic show, live auction and music. Would-be Bonds and Moneypennys are
encouraged to explore the mysterious world of Jellies and dive their hands into the wonder of Shedd’s newest special exhibit, Stingray Touch. This interactive, outdoor exhibit allows guests to see and FEEL the texture and movement of these gentle gliding animals! The 2013 gala committee chairman Laura Ferris Anderson and a committee of 75+ volunteers hope you can attend! (For tickets and more info, please visit www.sheddaquarium.org/gala2013/.)

One of the hottest parties of the year is back, as Today’s Chicago Woman (TCW) is pleased to announce this year’s Chicago’s Top Singles Party titled Spring Fever on March 22 at River East Art Center from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This event is always sure to deliver an evening of mixing and mingling in a venue packed with Chicago’s most intriguing men and women. B96 Radio’s Showbiz Shelly is the evening’s emcee and will be presenting this year’s 50 single women and men. This year’s bash will provide party-goers with delicious bites from Chicago’s top restaurants including Wow Bao and Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse. Last year, more than 500 Chicagoans attended this top single’s party to benefit the TCW Foundation, which supports under-funded organizations designed to provide essential programs and services for women and girls. Tickets ($80) are available at www.tcwmag.com. Hope to see YOU there!

Chicago Bride magazine returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier as it presents the first of two shows at Bridal Expo & Yacht Party Fashion Show on April 14th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Brides will be offered a hands-on experience in preparation for their big day while taking pleasure in the beautiful backdrop of Navy Pier’s Lakeview Terrace. Top local wedding experts, from photographers to caterers, will be on hand to assist brides with planning details including professional advice, product samples, discounts and special offers. Lucky brides-to-be will have the chance to win fabulous
prizes from the day’s raffle, generously donated by exhibitors and donors. There will be a runway bridal fashion show aboard the Anita Dee II yacht, docked right at Navy Pier and, conveniently, directly across from the Lakeview Terrace venue. Brides and their guests will enjoy a fashion show and party featuring complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres from Catered by Design while they take in the latest bridal fashions from Frankfort, Ill.-based Fiancée Couture during the fashion show. Admission is FREE for all attendees and pre-registration is preferred by visiting the Chicago Bride website or calling Cathy at 773-866-9901 x12 for more information. Here come the brides!

And while we’re on the subject of brides, don’t miss a fabulous new collection debuting at Dimitra’s Bridal Salon (located at 1011 N. Rush) beginning March 21st. Constantina Maroulis-Sweeney will be presenting an exquisite collection from Ersa Atelier to American brides-to-be for the first time. This European designer has had fashionistas, style bloggers and brides in the know drooling over her designs and now you can see them for yourself. Plus, mention “Candid Candace” and you’ll get a 10-percent discount! Cupid’s arrows are flying!

Shopping FUN for two legs AND four on March 23rd! The businesses along Southport Avenue (3200 to 3900 N. Southport Ave.) are teaming up with local rescue organizations to help homeless dogs find loving homes and raise awareness about adopting a shelter animal. Shoppers, families and dog lovers alike are invited to “Hop Around the Shops,” a FREE neighborhood event offering shopping discounts and freebies hidden in eggs and the opportunity to meet many adoptable dogs from both Chicago Canine Rescue and Project Rescue Chicago on Southport between Roscoe and Byron from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Don’t miss the elegant spring 2013 collection from beloved designer Elda de la Rosa on March 19th at The Peninsula Hotel Chicago beginning at 6 p.m. A portion of the proceeds from “La Vie en Rose: Couture for a Cause” will benefit Edgewater Development Corp., a community-based nonprofit that supports small businesses. Chanel’s style consultant Randolph Tovar will be the guest speaker and ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez will emcee. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions, the event’s host committee includes Jean Antoniou, Toni Canada, Diana Palomar, Dusty Stemer, Tracey Tarantino, Tasia June Travlos, Moira Tuffy and Marsha Brenner. I’m honored to be modeling for my favorite designer! For tickets ($100) and more info, please call 773.506.4016 or click here!

Over the weekend, Hennessy V.S presented an ‘80s-themed birthday bash for popular NYC promoter and socialite Legendary Damon at Good Units in the Hudson Hotel. A special performance of “Like a Prayer” was performed by recording artist Melanie Fiona (accompanied by a gospel choir) as Damon made his grand
entrance. Singer Luke James also gave a special performance and later on in the evening, Bridget Kelly serenaded Damon with “Happy Birthday.” Music was provided by DJ Kiss, MOS, DJ Goldfinger and Jimmy Da Gent to the trendy, fashionable and hip downtown artsy New York crowd. I just love these Hennessey parties!

The Service Club of Chicago presents its annual Mad Hatter Spring Luncheon on May 30th at the Ritz-Carlton, located at 160 E. Pearson. This year, co-chairs Sherry Lea Holson, Pat Maxwell and Dr. Stacie McClane are thrilled to feature the iconic photographer Victor Skrebneski, who will present an exclusive viewing of his collection, “SKREBNESKI PHOTOGRAPHS HATS OFF!!” which will be followed by a Q & A. This event sells out every year so get your tix now! The afternoon will also showcase the Loreta Corsetti Couture Millinery Collection. Other highlights will include a special Loreta Corsetti Hat silent auction prize, prizes for Hatter’s Contest winners and raffle prizes. (Champagne will be available for purchase during lunch.) The Service Club of Chicago is one of the oldest charitable organizations in Chicago. Founded in1890, it provides grant funding for tangible items to nonprofit organizations benefitting women, the arts, children and education. For tickets and more information please call or email Sherry Lea Holson at 847-347-1708 or snrholsoniii@aol.com.

The Taste of Streeterville is coming to the InterContinental Chicago, on May 7th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This fun-filled event will include all you can eat and drink from more than a dozen restaurants plus beer and wine! Tickets are $125; however, if you use the code “CandidCandace” (wink, wink), you will receive 50 percent off! Hope to see you at this exciting Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions event! For tix and more info, please click here!

Popular Chicago Now blogger, cookbook author, Trailblazer Award winner and chef Anupy Singla will be appearing at Whole Foods at 1550 N. Kingsbury to teach Indian cooking classes on March 14th (11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Let Anupy walk you through the very basics of Indian cooking: You’ll first learn spicing and then three of the most basic dishes for a successful Indian meal. Sign up online or call 312.587.0648. Just love this one woman dynamo!

Stay tuned for the fourth episode from Vanishing Point Productions – “The Snow Man” – coming March 18th! A seemingly innocuous pandhandler hides a sinister secret…how is he spending his change? YIKES! “The Vanishing Point” is a series of three- to 10-minute genre films tied together by themes of horror, sci-fi or the supernatural. Check out these amazing, Twilight Zone-inspired films by Josh Orr and Eric Gulbrandsen here!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition and I hope to see you here next week! In the meantime, is this the cutest doggie costume you’ve ever seen? 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful model Nicole Townsend on her new position as social media and brand manager for Mega Growth Hair
Care! In collaboration with Black Sophisticate’s Hairstyle Guide, Nicole will be at the Black Women’s Expo on April 6th at McCormick Place along with “Real Housewives of Atlanta” supermodel Cynthia Bailey! Congrats and good luck Nicole…and I LOVE your new look!

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