Tag Archives: Eric Himel

April 25, 2013 · 10:49 am

JENNIFER HUDSON HELPS QATAR AIRWAYS INTRODUCE THEMSELVES TO CHICAGO!

…PLUS AN ELEGANT NYC BLUE BOOK BALL; DUSABLE’S “NIGHT OF 100 STARS”; JANE SEYMOUR OPENS HER HEART; TENNIS LEGEND JIMMY CONNORS SHARES ALL; CUBS' “BRICK & IVY” BALL; JOAKIM NOAH GIVES BACK AND EVENTS FOR MAY YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS!


1 - Jennifer Hudson performs!The first direct route from Chicago to Doha, the capital city of the state of Qatar, opened for business on April 10th. On April 11th, Qatar Airways celebrated with a blow-out party for 580 guests at the Field Museum
2 - Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jennifer Sutton, Paul Iacono, Helen Melchior, Jason and Katie McLenaghanfeaturing Grammy and Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson as the evening's entertainment. The event began with a cocktail reception and red carpet photos with beautiful Qatar Airways flight attendants. As guests
3 - Geoffrey and Monica Dixon (2nd from L), Lonnie Rodriguez and friendsentered the ballroom for a sit-down dinner, a dramatic lighting display was shown on the wall above the stage where Hudson would later perform. A video presentation showcased the beautiful city of Doha and
4 - Tracy Schmidt with a lucky trip winner!this world class airline. Skytrax, the bible in aviation, has named Qatar Airways the “World's Best Airline” two years running now. (Doha will also be hosting the World Cup in 2022.) The delicious dinner, catered by Food for Thought, began with a poached lobster salad followed by beef tenderloin with
5 - CEO of Qatar Airways Akbar Al Baker, Deputy Mayor of Chicago Steve Koch, Qatar’s Ambassador to U.S. His Excellency Mohamad Bin Abdulla Al-Rumaihi-thyme jus. Dessert was a Nobu specialty – macana, which is mango jelly with white chocolate mousse, raspberries, pistachio sponge and lime sorbet. I’m told the wine pairings were an oenophile's dream! The program continued with Miss Illinois Megan Ervin introducing the CEO of
6 - James “Big Cat” Williams, Maureen and Marc SchulmanQatar Airways, Akbar Al Baker. He told the rapt audience that this new collaboration between Qatar and Chicago is expected to generate $250 million dollars and bring thousands of jobs to the community. Chicago Deputy Mayor Steve Koch spoke next and welcomed Qatar Airways to the Windy City. Qatar flight attendants were
7 - Jerry Azuma and friendsscattered throughout the audience collecting business cards which were then used to choose the lucky winners of free trips for two to Doha. Five trips were offered but sadly, no one at our table won. :(  When Hudson appeared onstage,
8 - The Landan Twins, RJ Melman and James Feeley and friendsthe crowd went wild. She looked fantastic in a short, flared black leather mini. Near the end of her performance, guests were invited to dance with her onstage and boy, was that ever a thrill! Tables for this historical gala were offered
9 - Jason McKie and friendto members of its VIP social committee. I was thrilled to be included along with these Chicago notables: Israel Idonije, Alexi Giannoulias, Lindsay Avner, Greg Hyder, Monika Dixon, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Jon and Andrew Landan, Neal Zucker, Linda Johnson Rice, Julie Latsko, Les Coney, Keene
11 - Skip Grisham and Megan McKinneyAddington, Larry Wert, Shawn Baldwin, Justin Jacobson, Sheila King, Kristine Green, Tracy Schmidt, Wendy Krimins, Marco Larsen, J.P. Anderson, Katherine Tarbox, Abigail Tarbox and Laurie Davis. “As the world's best airline, our goal tonight was to showcase the full extent of our five-star service and invite the people of this great city to
10 - Dancing onstage with Jennifer!fly with us to Doha and our many exciting destinations around the world,” said Al Baker. Qatar Airways is currently offering three non-stop flights a week between Doha and Chicago with plans to upgrade to daily service in June. For more info and flight schedules, please visit www.qatarairways.com. Oh, what a night! (To see ALL event pics, please click here!)


1 - Blue Box venue in Rockefeller CenterRecently, NYC was glittering with 1920’s pizzazz! The Jazz Age returned for one spectacular evening, summoned by Tiffany & Co. to ignite the Blue Book Ball. The champagne-fueled celebration was held in honor of the 2013 Blue Book Collection of Tiffany’s
2 - Carey Mulligan, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin (Pic by Andrew Walker-Getty Images)most breathtaking jewels, inspired by the Roaring Twenties that transformed fashion and culture. The preeminent jeweler, then and now, designed the jewels that epitomized glamour and lit up posh Manhattan supper clubs. The sheer exuberance of this magical moment in American life pervaded Rockefeller Center, scene of the Ball that took place within a 31-foot-high Tiffany Blue Box covering the center’s famous 15,000-square-foot ice rink. In his remarks, Tiffany & Co.’s chairman and
3 - Gwyneth Paltrow wearing Tiffany diamondsCEO Michael J. Kowalski said, “The
4 - Megan Hilty performs onstageJazz Age was a time of great energy and creativity. All eyes looked to New York for the latest in music and style. As the city’s first great jeweler, Tiffany provided the diamonds for this nonstop party and, I am happy to say, we still do. So it is with pleasure and gratitude that we celebrate this memorable chapter in American life, in the city where it all began — and with our diamonds that are still the world’s most beautiful.” The 400 guests included
5 - Sarah Jessica Parkercelebrities Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson, Jessica Biel, Sarah Jessica Parker, Carina Lau, Alice Eve, Poppy Delevingne, Peter and Harry Brant, Doutzen Kroes and Hilary Rhoda,
6 - Academy Award winning costume designer Catherine Martin and director-writer-producer Baz Luhrmanalong with Carey Mulligan, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin (star, director/producer/co-writer and costume/production designer of “The Great Gatsby,” respectively). Guests disembarked at Fifth Avenue and proceeded along the promenade, which was bathed in Tiffany Blue, toward a beribboned entrance to an elegant supper club tailor-made for Jazz Age revelry. The seamless Art Deco setting, designed in a palette of chic gray tones, was lined with luxurious velvet drapes and laid
7 - Model Poppy Delevingnewith carpeting in a striking starburst pattern. At the floor’s center, a towering tribute to the bubbly rose toward the ceiling on mirrored risers, with 240 glasses and 142 magnums of Moët & Chandon Imperial champagne. Surrounding it were elegant lounges
8 - Actress Jessica Bieland banquettes arranged for dining in the style of a supper-club buffet, served amid lavish arrangements of white flowers. And trays of iPads for posting images on social media circulated like the cigarette trays of a previous era. (Was this a great idea or what?) Showcased in custom-designed vitrines were jewels from the 2013 Blue Book Collection that reflect Tiffany’s legacy of Art Deco design. Among them were diamond necklaces and drop earrings, platinum and diamond bracelets set in patterns
9 - Model Doutzen Kroesof a jazz composition or with great diamond fans unfolding on black enamel; a suite of voluptuous diamond flowers; and the rarest fancy color
10 - Kate Hudsondiamonds — pink, orange, blue and green. Gemstones Tiffany introduced to the world included green tsavorite, pink morganite, lilac-pink kunzite and blue-violet tanzanite, Montana sapphires and luxuriant turquoise. The bronze-gilded statue of the Greek Titan Prometheus, a fixture of Rockefeller Center, served as backdrop to the stage and a full-scale, ‘20s-style revue. Backed by an orchestra, dancers in fringed and spangled “flapper” costumes reprised classic songs (“Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”), complete with raucous renditions of the Lindy and
11Charleston, and current pop hits (Rihanna’s “Diamonds”), followed by Broadway singer Megan Hilty with more standards from the American
12 - Actress Michelle Williams draped in Tiffany jewelsSongbook. The singer led the finale, accompanied by aerialists that descended from above, trailing feathered headdresses and dancing in mid-air. On cue, a blizzard of silvery fine confetti brought down the curtain on a simply fabulous evening. It was a milestone in the history of New York and its legendary jeweler: the night Tiffany brought the Jazz Age brilliantly to life at the glamorous and euphoric Blue Book Ball. Three words, OH MY GOODNESS! Congrats to Tiffany & Co. on their continuing dedication to excellence in ALL things, including glamorous, over-the-top events like THIS one!


1 - Tony Smith, Barbara Bates, Diane Primo, Richard Gamble and Karen JordanThe DuSable Museum of African American History hosted “A Night of 100 Stars” recently at the South Shore Country Club. This lavish evening included exquisite food, stellar entertainment and an award
2 - Carol Adams, Honoree Cymbrehona Warren and DuSable Museum Board chair Clarence Bournepresentation with a sell-out crowd of more than 800 in attendance. Paparazzi’s flashbulbs illuminated the sky as guests walked the red carpet to indulge in “out-of-the-world” cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a lavish buffet and world-class
3 - Dr. Carol Adams pres-ceo of dusable museum and Sandy Reynolds, gala Chairentertainment and towitness the presentation of the “2013 A Night Of 100 Stars Awards.” This year, five incredible Chicago women were honored during this annual black-tie celebration
4 - Night of 100 Stars event chairman Nicole-Johnson Scales and Sandy Reynoldsof excellence, women who have made outstanding contributions to society, the city and to the world through their careers and civic engagement. The honorees were Mara Brock Akil (award-winning
5 - Carol Adams and honoree Barbara Batestelevision producer/writer), Barbara Bates (fashion designer/philanthropist), Michelle L. Collins (president, Cambium L.L.C.), Diane I. Primo (CEO, IntraLink Global) and Cymbrehona Warren (senior, Young Women’s Leadership Charter School). Serving as 2013 Gala chairmen were Nicole Johnson-Scales
6 - Night of 100 Stars honorees Michelle Collins, Cymrehona Warren, Barabara Bates and Diane Primoand Sandy Reynolds. ABC 7’s Karen Jordan and Charles Thomas hosted the awards presentation. Committee Members included Lynne Bamford, Keiana Barrett, Sharon Bourne, Cheryl Bowman-McPherson, Deborah O. Brown, Florestee Buss E.D., Toiya Butler-White, Randall
7 - Mayor and Congressman Danny DavisCaldwell, Yolanda Collins, Valerie Corr Hanserd, Linda Crane Boyd, Dolores Cross Ph.D., Yolanda Daniel, Nicole Durham, Stanley Gilkey, Frances Guichard, Diana Hennington, Valerie Hill, LaWanda Holmes-
8 - Carol Adams, Honoree Michelle Collins, DuSable Museum Board member Leon WalkerWilliams, Delores Irvin, Lisa M. James, Zara Johnson, Grace LaJoy-Little, Sonya Lewis, Shirley Massey, Sandra McCollum, Adrienne McGee, Reverend James T. and Jamell Meeks, Lisa Newman, Pastor Smokie and Carla Norful, Joyce Owens, Darlene Pierre-Louis, Yvette
9 - Guests at A Night of 100 Stars-Sandra Rand in white-grey ballgownPowe, Sandra Rand, Cheryl Rayner, Toi Salter, Dona Scott, Gladys Smith, Valerie Stoudemire, Gail Swain, Dolores Thibodeaux, Wendy Walker Williams, Cheryl Whitaker, M.D., Cheryl Williams, Carole Wood, and Mary Ann Young.
10 - Guests enjoy a musical performanceCaterers included Beyond Events Catering, Bon Manger Catering, C’Est Si Bon, Fanfares Catering, Inc., Ja’Grill Catering, Josephine’s Southern Culture Cooking, Just Turkey of Homewood, Lenore’s Kitchen, Melon Express, Sinha Catering and The Parrot Cage. I always like to give credit where credit is due and the food was fabulous at this event! The DuSable Museum of African American History is one of
11 - Mayor and honoree Barbara Batesthe oldest institutions of its kind in the country. Their mission is to collect, preserve and display artifacts and objects that promote understanding and
12 - Clarence Bourne, Carol Adams, Mayorinspire appreciation of the achievements, contributions and experiences of African Americans. For more information on the Museum and its programs, please call (773) 947-0600 or visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Congrats on another great event! (Photos by Jerome Simmons.)


1Eighty-five Chicago-area girls ages 5 to 17 hit the catwalk on a mission to help other children for the third annual Girls’ Spring Fashion Show & Tea. The Comer Development Board, Frankie’s On The Park children’s boutique and
2Rock Candy Salon & Spa teamed up to host this event with more than 250 parents, friends and supporters in attendance in the Women’s Athletic Club of Chicago’s elegant ballroom. The afternoon raised more than
3 - Pretty as a picture!$30,000 to support critical patient care programs and treatments at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital. Celebrity stylist Eric Himel, who studied design under style guru Tim Gunn of “Project Runway”
4 - Shirley and Pat Ryan and familyfame, served as the show’s emcee. The fundraiser offers girls an exciting opportunity to help save and improve the lives of children suffering from serious illnesses. Now in its third year, this event continues to increase in popularity drawing a slate of young
6 - Eric Himel and friendsmodels and guests from across the Chicagoland area. The show featured the latest in kids’ fashions from Frankie’s On The Park, a top Lincoln Park destination for trendy tweens and teens, who also donated 25% of its
8 - Future supermodelsproceeds from each outfit to Comer Children's Hospital. Rock Candy Salon & Spa was on hand to help each young model get runway ready. Other sponsors included Gene & Georgetti’s, Heffernan Morgan Ronsley
7Design, Nancy Krause Floral Design & Garden Antiques, Lisa Schenkman Interiors, O'Neil Family Foundation, Fishman's Fabrics and Vineyard Bath Company. Congrats to all of the young models and generous donors who contributed to this wonderful charity event. (To view ALL event pics, please click here!)


1 - James Keach, Maria D'Angelo, Lee Woodruff, Hannah Storm, Jane Seymour, Marie Tillman2Adversity and obstacles confront us all yet how an individual responds to life’s challenges was the sole focus of a special gala evening hosted by actress, artist and philanthropist Jane Seymour and award-winning director and producer James Keach. For the third year, the Open Hearts Foundation recognized some incredible people and organizations that are devoted to inspiring and supporting others. Jane Seymour was stunning in a
Ace Young, Diana DeGarmoturquoise Pamella Roland gown (one of my fav designers!) and took the stage to kick off the event. Highlights included Marie Tillman’s speech. (She is the widow of fallen soldier and NFL star Pat Tillman; she was joined by her new husband, Joe Shenton.) She tearfully addressed the 300 attendees, while noting how Pat Tillman would have been so proud and that it’s remarkable how his life still has so much meaning. ESPN’s Hannah Storm, with 14-year-old daughter Ellery in tow,
Alex Bandspoke about her devotion to removing the stigma of disfiguring vascular birthmarks and empowering those affected by finding their inner beauty. She spoke candidly about her recent accident, which left her wondering if her career in front of the camera was over due to severe facial burns from the fire and the loss of her hair. An emotional video from former NFL great and ALS advocate patient Steve Gleason and his wife Michelle, set the mood for an
Jane Seymour and Chelsea Kane at Open Hearts Foundation galaincredible evening. Eighties movie star Jonathan Silverman and wife, soap star Jennifer Finnigan, accepted the award on their close friends’ behalf. Gleason, who suffers from ALS, spoke via computer technology using only his eyes, leaving not a dry eye in the crowd. Bob and Lee Woodruff learned all too well that life can change in just an instant when Bob suffered a traumatic brain injury in Iraq in 2006. Due to recent developments in South Korea, Bob was unable to attend at the last minute but made quite the appearance via a heartfelt taped message while on
Lee Woodruff, Jane Seymourlocation. Former lead vocalist for The Calling, Alex Band, not only wowed the crowd with his hit “Wherever You Will Go” but candidly broke the heartbreaking news that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease just six months ago, a surprise to all guests. Congrats to Jane and James for shining a light where it’s most needed. Keep up the wonderful work!


1I’m getting so excited about tennis great Jimmy Connors’ upcoming autobiography, “The Outsider.” His wife Patti told me he’s looking forward to a book tour that sadly, for now, doesn’t include a stop in Chicago but I will keep working on them! Here’s Jimmy’s description of the book, “A lot has been written about me, my family, my on-court behavior and my off-court life. Some of it is true, well, you decide. This book is going to change
3 - With Patti and Jimmy in L.A. before Mansion partythat. People may think they know Jimmy Connors. Maybe they do, but now it's time to set the record straight.” I just can’t wait, love him and love his darling family! The book will be available May 14th. To pre-order, please click here! 


1 - Grant recipients Hannah Perez, Isaac Diaz, Aaron Ibarra and Devin HallMore than 840 guests helped raise $1.2 million in a night filled with glamour, baseball and community at the recent Bricks and Ivy Ball to benefit Chicago Cubs Charities. Cubs owners, managers, players, front office associates and fans gathered together at Navy
2 - Kerry and Sarah WoodPier’s Grand Ballroom to enjoy cocktails, dinner, silent/live auctions and live music by DJ Kasper K and his ‘70s dancers. Now in its third year, the Bricks and Ivy Ball has become one of the key fundraisers for CCC and supports numerous organizations and programs targeting youth sports access
3 - Cubs president Theo Epsteinand improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. As the program began, chairman Tom Ricketts addressed the Cubs’ commitment to supporting Chicago’s children through community outreach and charitable programming. “Our goal is to make life better for the youth and families of Chicago by doing our part to improve health, fitness and educational opportunities for those at risk,” said Ricketts.
5 - Cub Jeff Samardzija and friends“Whether it’s a hospital visit, holiday toy drive, serving lunch at a USO or Thanksgiving dinner to homeless teens, our team is there donating their time and resources.” During the evening,
Cubs owner Tom RickettsCCC introduced a video featuring some all-star youth who have benefitted from grants, including Cubs Care grants, a McCormick Foundation Fund. Hannah Perez from Cubs Care RBI Fast Pitch Girls Softball, Isaac Diaz from Urban Initiatives, Aaron Ibarra from Midtown Educational Foundation and Devin Hall from Breakthrough Urban
6 - Legendary Cub Ernie Banks (2nd from L) and friendsMinistries all talked about how the Chicago Cubs are making a difference in their communities and their lives. The video also featured Cubs players Darwin Barney, David DeJesus, Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija who interviewed the youth for the video. Congratulations on all you do Chicago Cubs Charities! For more info, please click here!


Lynne_jordan_banner_3Mark your calendars for April 29th! Beloved diva Lynne Jordan returns to City Winery with her sexy bunch of The Shivers for a night of joyous entertainment and song. Tickets are only $15 to see this award-winning chanteuse sing with her incredible orchestra! For tickets and more information about this event, please call 312.733.9463 or click here!

 


1 - Joakim Noah_Cécilia Rodhe_Ryan O'Donnell_Shin ThompsonChicago Bulls center Joakim Noah joined more than sixty friends, family and supporters recently at soon-to be opened West Loop eatery Kabocha (located at 952 W. Lake) to raise
2 - Amanda Puck_David Manilow_Jacqui Wedewerawareness for his namesake charitable organization, Noah’s Arc Foundation. Guests sipped specialty cocktails and snacked on an array of tasty bites from Kabocha’s Chef Shin Thompson while mingling with the basketball star and his
3 - Dana Henderson_Ernest Wilkinsmother/expressive art therapist/sculptor and foundation co-founder Cecilia Rohde. During a short presentation in which smiling faces of children at NAF-organized camps and
4 - Nancy Crown_Anna O'Donnellprograms beamed from the screen, Noah reflected on the work his charity had done over its first two years. “When I think about those kids, they give me strength,” he said. Rodhe also said a few words, thanking partygoers and extolling the necessity of arts education and artistic expression for those children most in need. Noah’s Arc Foundation
5 - Stuart Buck_Karen Buck with with Chef Shin Thompsonwas founded in 2010 by Noah and Rodhe to help engage children in positive self-expression through arts and sports. Guests in attendance got a sneak peek
6 - Julie Carden_Anna O'Donnell_Beth O'Donnellat Kabocha, Chicago’s first Japanese brasserie. Hors d’oeuvres were modeled on dishes one can expect to find on the menu when Kabocha opens soon and included tuna and hamachi
8 - Andrew Weil_Mike Olson_Dominic Volinitartare, Kabocha squash and corn soup and rabbit dumplings with Thai basil. Some notable names came out in support, including artist and author Beth O’Donnell (mother of Kabocha co-owner Ryan O’Donnell), Nancy Crown, Caroline Crown and “Check, Please!” creator and executive producer David Manilow.


CalendarMay2013byjudybonzerStay tuned for these upcoming May events: WTTW Gala featuring Emmy Lou Harris on May 1st; Steppenwolf Gala on May 4th; "The Dinner Party" with host Elysabeth Alfano on May 6th (I can’t wait to be on with Lin Brehmer, Sean Pharr and Nick Bowling); Alzheimer’s Gala on May 11th; Taste for the Arts at the Harris Theatre on May 14th; Shakespeare Theater Gala on May 17th; Goodman Theatre Gala on May 18th; Campfire Ball on May 18th; DePaul University Theatre School Gala on May 22nd; Merit School of Music Gala on May 23rd; my birthday on May 26th (!); and the Hubbard Street Dance Spotlight Ball on May 30th! Whew! We’re going to be very, very busy!

Hope spring is around the corner and I hope you have enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace!

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


Steve and me with the Herrick family - Liz, Max, Jared and TylerP.S. I can’t wait to share an exciting documentary with you all soon! I’ve been working with Emmy Award-winning director and founder of Zacuto, Steve Weiss, to produce an inspiring story of an incredible family, the Herrick Family. You might know them as an Ambassador Family for Ronald McDonald House Charities but there’s so much more to learn! We can’t wait to share this heart-warming story with you, it will make you change the way you live in a very good way! Vanishing Point Films creator/editor Josh Orr will be collaborating on this dynamic and awe-inspiring piece. Stay tuned! #INSPIRING

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

April 4, 2013 · 11:59 am

COMMON’S ‘UN-COMMON’ STAR-FILLED FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ELDA’S ODE TO SPRING; BLUE MASQUE BALL; GIORDANO DANCE CHICAGO CELEBRATES 50; JENNY MCCARTHY’S “RESCUE OUR ANGELS”; ART INSTITUTE’S “NIGHT HEIST”; COOL, CHRIS AND FLORIDA PARTY IN MIAMI; JOE’S BAR WINS BIG; ULTA BEAUTY’S CARRIE AND MOLLY PARTY WITH NAOMI, KAROLINA AND NIGEL; PALM BEACH POLO ANYONE?; WONKA BALL; PUPPY MILLS BE GONE!; TEA AND FASHION WITH SARAH WOOD; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN-TV; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!  
 

1 - Magic, the Mayor and CommonIt was no wonder the Common Ground Gala was a sell-out at the Four Seasons on March 23rd! Who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders – or even be in the same room – with the legendary Earvin “Magic” Johnson and rapper-turned-actor-turned-author Common (aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn)? I was so excited to be covering this major event for my
2 - Milo Dodson, Magic, Common and Lamman Rucker with CGF Dreamers and Believers Summer Camp KidsWatch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” but was a bit surprised that there wasn’t more press in attendance for the VIP red carpet portion of the event. Mind you, I’m not complaining and in reality, this was reserved for the night’s honorees so I know they wanted to keep this
3 - Red Carpet VIPsportion of the evening manageable. I was also surprised to see Magic Johnson not only arrive on time for the red carpet interviews but to arrive FIVE MINUTES EARLY! No wonder this guy is such a success: Besides being a Hall of Fame
4 - Magic offering his BIG auction packagebasketball player and able to play every single position on the court, his business acumen is legendary. Presented by Coca-Cola, this third annual event honored Magic, Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas, Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand and raised over $350,000. This colorful and inspiring group of honorees was selected based on their
5 - Common’s mother, Dr. Mahalia Ann Hine and Common (after Magic raised $100K in live auction!)service, impactful lives and unprecedented career success. Though honoree Gabby Douglas was unable to attend, she sent a video expressing how thrilled she was and concluded playfully with energetic footage of her family and friends doing the Harlem Shake. Emceed by ABC 7’s Cheryl Burton and actor Lamman Rucker, the event was exciting from
6 - Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo with Commonbeginning to end but perhaps the most breathtaking moment came when Magic raised more than $100,000 with a live auction package he donated in the first few minutes of the event. Cheryl Burton started off the bidding at $20K for seven floor seats to a Laker’s game, seven signed throwback jerseys and a private dinner with Magic. It sold three times for $90K with Magic adding
7 - Co-host Lamman Rucker and Commonanother $10K for an even $100K donation! WOW, right? Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand graciously accepted their awards and pledged their support to the Common Ground Foundation’s Summer Youth Camp. They praised
8 - Red Carpet Host and NBC reporter, Michele Relerford and CGF Gala event planner, Erika JordanCommon, highlighting his authenticity and commitment, noting how truly “uncommon” he is. Six teens from the Common Ground Foundation’s “Dreamers and Believers Mentoring Program” spoke movingly about how important and life changing the summer camp and year-round mentoring has been for each of them.
9 - The Four Seasons BallroomAll proceeds from the black tie event benefited Common’s non-profit organization, the Common Ground Foundation (CGF). Additional attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Jim Reynolds (Loop Capital), co-chairs Les Coney (Mesirow Financial) and Juanita Jordan (Vanoy Jordan Enterprises), red capet host Michelle Releford (NBC 5), Andre Johnson (Magic Johnson Enterprises), Melody Spann-Cooper (WVON), Andrea Zopp (CEO, Chicago Urban League),  Nina and Bob Mariano, Jeanne
10 - CGF guestsSparrow (co-host WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning”), Marc Brooks, Terri
11 - Common and CGF Exec. Director Tamara BrownMariano, Tamara Brown and Derek Dudley among many others. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction reception (with a highlight being an ALL-access trip to the Grammys), live performance by Chicago Soul Centric (featuring Aziza Lisa), dinner and dancing. The evening was followed by an after-party at the Hard Rock Hotel.


12 - Honorees Everett Rand and Timothy Rand with CommonIn order to pay homage to honorees that have achieved success all while impacting communities in a significant way, the Common Ground Foundation began hosting the gala in an effort to highlight the accomplishments of key influencers and help fund the organization. Last year’s
13 - With darling WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” co-host Jeanne Sparrowevent honored legendary and famous activist and actor Harry Belafonte as well as executive vice president of the Boeing Corporation James A. Bell, Chicago Bear and youth advocate Israel Idonije and CEO and founder of MillionDollar$cholar Derrius Quarles. “I started the Common Ground Foundation because I wanted to help, most of all to help people help
14 - Interviewing Magic and Common for Watch312themselves. I always believed if we started with the youth, then we would be planting the seeds for our future to blossom,” says Common. Love this guy! To learn more about this incredible organization, please click here! To see ALL of the fun from this wonderful night, please watch my video below! Magic and Common give some great advice to Chicago’s youth and Magic tells us just what he thinks about Chicago so let me take YOU to the party!

 


http://admin.brightcove.com/js/BrightcoveExperiences.js


brightcove.createExperiences();


1 - Designer Elda de la Rosa surrounded by fansBeloved designer Elda de la Rosa presented her 2013 Spring collection, titled “La Vie en Rose,” on March 19th in the Avenues Ballroom of the beautiful Peninsula Hotel. Elda had been working hard for months getting her beautiful designs
2 - Pretty coming AND going!ready for the runway and her hard work paid off as the SRO crowd oohed and aahed for every model who sashayed down the salon-style runway. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracy Tarantino, the event’s host committee included Jean Antoniou, Toni Canada, Diana Palomar, Dusty Stemer, Tracy, Tasia June Travlos, Moira Tuffy and
3 - Host committee members and supportersMarsha Brenner. Elda’s honorary committee included many politicos including Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Senator Heather Steans, State Rep Kelly Cassidy, Aldermen Patrick O’Connor and Harry Osterman and Committeewoman Carol Ronen. ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez, a longtime friend of Elda’s, served as emcee wearing a stunning blue Elda gown. I was thrilled to be a model along with Greg Hyder, Jean Antoniou, Diana Palomar, Patricia Gillman,
4 - As pretty on the inside as it is on the outside!Moira Tuffy, Nancy Meyerson, Kathy
5 -Tracy Tarantino, Frances Renk and Sheryl DyerBurke and Minister Blaine Moulton. The evening began with a silent auction and reception in the Grant Park Room. At 8 p.m., the show began in the ballroom with Sylvia welcoming the crowd. She introduced Chanel style consultant Randolph Tovar who talked about his fashion inspirations and how style influences us. Then, the lights dimmed and the classic French song by Edith Piaf, “La Vie en Rose,” began to play. Sylvia repeated a line from the song, “When he takes me in his arms and speaks softly to me, I see life in rosy hues, he tells me
6words of love, words of every day and, in them, I become something.” She went on to say, “A woman who wears Elda de la Rosa does indeed ‘become
7 - Elda de la Rosa Spring 2013something,’ something very special, gorgeous, beautiful and radiant.” And then the show began!  Every woman was a star as she glided down the runway in her Elda creation. The finale was the gorgeous wedding gown worn by Jordan Stemer at her recent nuptials. All of the proceeds from the event benefited the programs and work of the Edgewater Development Corp., an organization dedicated to working with Chicago’s small business entrepreneurs. Congrats again Elda on a beautiful collection! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins and David Stephens…view more here!)
 

1 - Honorary Chairs Tom and Susanna NegovanThe Greek America Foundation presented its second annual Blue Masque Ball, a fundraising event to benefit charities in debt-stricken Greece, at the Blackstone Hotel on March 16th. This year’s honorary chairs
2 - Constantine Maroulis and glam friendwere Emmy Award-winning journalist Tom Negovan and his wife, Splash editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, Susanna Negovan. The couple brought years of support to local charities of the Greek America Foundation and Susanna was excited to support and honor her Greek heritage. The entire ballroom was transformed into a casino gaming floor with blackjack, craps and roulette tables dotting the room. All proceeds
3 - Jane Monzures and fab friendfrom the ball, which brought together the best of traditional Greek Mardi Gras celebrations in Casino Royale style, benefited Project Hope for Greece. This is a new initiative launched by the Greek America Foundation to support a
4wide range of accredited charity-driven institutions in Greece that are struggling to solve the problems of its people amidst the country’s worst economic crisis since World War II. Proceeds will be shared with various charities and organizations that have a proven track record of offering support to the country. Ellison Sunglasses CEO Aristotle Loumis served as the Young Professionals Chair.  Celebrity guests included Constantine Maroulis of “American Idol” fame and
5 - Christos Garkinos (2nd from L), Amanda Puck (R) and friendsnow performing in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde”; Christos Garkinos of
8Decades and BravoTV’s new reality show “Dukes of Melrose” who was joined by Amanda Puck;  Evangeline Goutelas of CITE Restaurant and Skyline Equities and Paula Fasseas of PAWS Chicago. DJ John Grammatis kept the lounge jumpin’ with nonstop music and
6 - Beautiful revelersdancing. Founded in 1997, the Greek America Foundation’s mission is to “promote, preserve and perpetuate Greek culture, history and heritage in North America.” For more info on this wonderful non-profit, please visit greekamerica.org. Congrats Susanna and Tom!

 


1 - Giordano Dance Chicago Giordano Dance Chicago celebrated its BIG 50th anniversary at the Harris Theater with a Gala Benefit (presented by the Boeing Company) on March 23rd. Pam Crutchfield served as honorary chair for this
2 - Kip Helverson and Nan Giordanospecial event, with choreographer to the stars Liz Imperio serving as artistic chair. The benefit drew 275 people and raised $100,000 for GDC and their programs. VIP gala ticket holders began their evening with an intimate pre-show
3 - Irwin and Harriet Ross and friendbackstage Signature Experience, including an in-the-wings champagne toast while viewing the final last-minute on-stage dancer preparations, followed by a backstage buffet dinner and conversation with artistic
4 - ason McLenaghan, Paul Iacono, Katie McLenaghan, Cindy Burns, JoeAnna LaCourse, Kip Helverson, Neal Steinerdirector Nan Giordano, Crutchfield and Imperio. As a special treat, they also had the chance to be part of “Circle,” GDC’s inspirational pre-performance ritual, moments before the dancers took the stage. The performance featured the
4 - David Helverson and Alana Helverson-Klimkowskipremiere of Imperio’s “La Belleza de Cuba” plus works from the GDC critically-acclaimed repertoire. Each work was preceded by video introductions, created by HMS Media from recent and archival GDC video and photos, providing historical content and
5 - Sanjay Sharma (L) and friendsilluminating the company’s extraordinary achievements. At 9:30 p.m., following the performance, gala attendees were escorted to the Pritzker Pavilion stage where they took in the dazzling view of Chicago’s Millennium Park nighttime skyline
6 - Giordano Dance’s Martin Ortiz Tapia and friendwhile mingling with GDC dancers and alum, enjoying an exquisite buffet catered by Cork Catering and Special Events and listening to live music by the George McRae Trio. “We knew this golden anniversary celebration was going to be special but on so many levels the results far
6exceeded our expectations,” says GDC artistic director Nan Giordano. “A lion’s share of the credit goes to our incredible benefit chairs and committee, who, along with our hardworking staff, selflessly poured their heart and soul into
7 - Nan Giordano being congratuledthis event. We are extremely grateful to everyone who joined us for this evening, the memory of which is something I will remember and cherish forever. It was an incredible tribute to my late father, Gus Giordano, and all who have supported us
8throughout our 50 years.” GDC is one of the longest running professional dance companies in Chicago and one of the very few dance companies in the U.S. to have achieved this half-century milestone. This achievement was recognized on the cover of the March 2013 edition of Dance Magazine.

 

1 - The Doyle family with Jenny McCarthy Televions star, model, actress and hometown girl Jenny McCarthy hosts the 6th Annual Rescue Our Angels event to support her nonprofit Generation Rescue, raise awareness of autism and generate funds to support families dealing with an autism diagnosis. McCarthy – whose son Evan has recovered from autism – is president of Generation
2Rescue and an advocate for children with autism and their families. The exclusive party will feature red carpet arrivals for VIP guests, remarks by McCarthy honoring Chicago couple Michele and Pete Doyle (founders of the event) and an “experience zone” – a hands-on way for guests to better understand the sensitivities that children on the autism spectrum experience. In addition to McCarthy, more than 400 VIP guests are expected to be in attendance, including Jacqueline and Chris Laurita (“Real Housewives of New Jersey”), Doug
3 - Michelle and Pete Doyle and familyClerget (“The Bachelorette”), Alexis Wineman (2013 People’s Choice Winner, Miss America), Colette Davis (open wheel driver), Heath Frisby (X Games snowmobile medalist) and Madi Wolf (singer). Tickets to the event are $100 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, entertainment and access to a live auction of incredible prizes. A limited number of VIP booths are available for purchase, too. For tickets, visit rescueourangels.com or click here.


Art Institute Night Heist logoThe Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago’s annual fundraising event, “Night Heist”, returns for its third year to the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court on April 26th from 8 to 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Art Institute’s major exhibition Picasso and Chicago – a celebration of the work of Picasso, his connections to the city and his enduring influence. Event includes live music, entertainment, themed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. General admission tickets are $95 (price to increase after 4/19) and the VIP Night Heist Experience (includes a one-hour reception beginning at 7 p.m.) is $150. For tickets and more info, please click here! 


1 - Cool with his birthday cakeRecently, Chris Brown, FloRida and Hennessy V.S put on a show at Dream nightclub in Miami, all to celebrate the birthday of super producer Cool, from Cool & Dre. Chris Brown hit the stage and performed a slew of his hits including, “Look At Me Now” and “No Bullsh*t.” The singer put on a complete show, showcasing his
2 - Chris Brown and his abs performingsignature dance moves and even showing off his rock hard abs. Rapper FloRida also hit the stage to celebrate Cool’s birthday and even helped lead the crowd in a “Happy Birthday” chant for the producer. Cool, huh? 🙂 (Photos by Humberto Cruz…view more pics here!)


Randolph St Market April adChicago Vintage Market pioneer Sally Schwartz is thrilled to announce Randolph Street Market’s Modern Vintage Chicago spring installation will return to the West Loop’s Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) on April 20th and 21st. Recognized as one of the top three vintage shows in the country, this bi-annual event comes just in time to add vintage flair to spring and summer wardrobes that will turn heads! Offering the
Modern Vintage Chicago-Randolph St. market adbest selection of jewelry, clothing and accessories vendors from across the Midwest, as well as Atlanta, NYC, Texas, Minneapolis and Philadelphia for men and women, this event is not to be missed! Among its 90+ vendors, new to the Market this year is the talented, Danielle Colby of “American Pickers” fame. Danielle will bring her vintage wares from her Wicker Park boutique, 4 Miles 2 Memphis, as well as perform with her burlesque troupe, Burlesque Le’Moustache. For more info, visit modernvintagechicago.com, call 312-666-1200 or email info@modernvintagechicago.com.
 

1 - Cellist Ian Makin and Marisa BuchheitThe SPRING AWAKENING Fashion Show didn’t herald the advent of spring but it did provide a beautiful night inside the warm greenhouse at City Escape Garden Center & Design Studio in the West Loop recently.
2 - Borris Powell and Jeff ConwayHosted by Benjamin Cottrell and Shari Duffy, this event offered VIP guests the opportunity to stroll the gardens during the champagne reception, shop City Escapes’ unique gifts and listen to the sound of Miss Heart Illinois 2013,
5 - Monika Wiela, Benjamin Cottrell and Shari DuffyMarisa Buchheit. The show opened with a performance by the Candid Concert Opera Company as models strutted the runway in designs by Stix & Roses, LH Couture, Tres Haute Chic, Just Class Jewelry and StyleUp Girl
8 - Models serenaded by Ian MakinShoes. World renowned cellist Ian Makin serenaded the models down the garden inspired runway. A portion of the proceeds benefitted Chicago Gateway Green. TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. (Photos by Jun Nagano.)

 

LogoCongratulations are in order for Joe’s Bar on Weed St. (940 W. Weed St) owner Ed Warm: His Chicago venue – known for hosting some of the biggest names in country music – has just been named Nightclub of the Year by the Academy of Country Music!!!
Ed WarmWarm, whose keen ear for emerging talent has earned him immense respect within the Nashville music scene, is also taking home honors as Promoter of the Year. (This is the third time Joe’s has been named Nightclub of the Year but the first win for Warm as Promoter of the Year.) Huge congrats on these much deserved wins! (The 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on April 7th).
 

1 - Ulta Beauty’s Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat with Nigel BarkerTalk about a dream job! ULTA Beauty Director of Public Relations Carrie Lannon and ULTA Beauty Director of Trend Development Molly Sloat partied with supermodel Naomi Campbell
3 - Karolina Kurkovaand Nigel Barker in New York during the filming of their hit show, “The Face.” (The finale episode was March 26th.) I sure hope to see this cool model driven show return soon! The show, hosted by Nigel Barker, followed three supermodel coaches (Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova and Naomi) as they
4 - Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat at the premiere of “The Face”competed with each other to find “the face” of ULTA Beauty. Carrie and Molly worked with Nigel, Naomi, Coco and Karolina and appeared on the final episode as they chose the winner of the show: Twenty-one-year-old Devyn Abdullah from Team Kurkova became the first Face of
2 - Coco Rocha, Nigel Barker and Naomi CampbellUlta Beauty! She will appear in its ads, go to Fashion Week and make personal appearances in ULTA Beauty stores. Congrats to Devyn, Carrie and Molly! If you need an assistant, you know who to call! 


AntonioSabatoJrAnd now for some exciting news from Palm Beach! The USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship is a four-week, 26-goal tournament that will finalize its 10th Anniversary Season at the International Polo Club. The
LizAnnHamptonCallowayaction began on March 31st and will continue on April 7th, 14th and 21st, showcasing the world’s most elite, high-goal players and the finest polo ponies. As one can imagine, the celebrity line-up is impressive and will include heartthrob Antonio Sabato, Jr., Emmy Award winner Liz Calloway, actress Ann Hampton Callaway, American Idol’s Brooke Eden and a perfect “10”
BrookeEdenBo Derek.  Country music star Lee Greenwood will
LeeGreenwood1perform “God Bless the USA” before the final match on April 21st. This high-goal polo action takes place every Sunday through April 21st, with tickets starting at $10 for general admission and up to $120 for box seating. Tickets for the lavish Sunday brunch at The
BoDerekPavilion and its reception start at $65 going upward to $330 for the Veuve Clicquot brunch package for two. Tickets can be purchased online at InternationalPoloClub.com or by calling 561.204.5687. Anybody up for a few good chukkers? 🙂
 

Poster with 4 sponsors_800x615The Puppy Mill Project is proud to be honoring the “Mothers in the Mills” at their annual fundraiser on May 11th at John Barleycorn River North (149 W. Kinzie) from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The evening will raise awareness about the cruel and inhumane conditions that dogs endure in puppy mills. Chicago fan-favorite band, Out of Control, will perform, a buffet dinner will be served, and guests will enjoy a silent auction and live raffle. This benefit is held annually on Mother’s Day weekend to honor and bring attention to all female (mother) dogs held captive in the mills who are forced to breed until they are no longer profitable to the breeder. The mission of TPMP is to educate the public about puppy mills, while advocating for legislative reform and facilitating the rescue of mill dogs. “The proceeds from the Mothers in The Mills benefit will
Out of Control Bandeducate and expose the truth about this cruel and inhumane industry that people are unknowingly supporting when purchasing pets through pet shops, the internet and newspaper ads,” says founder Cari Meyers. “We will never stop fighting for the freedom of the mill dogs.” I wish them the best of luck. Tickets are $100 per person ($125 at the door) and can be purchased here. 
 

WonkaBall-2About Face Theatre celebrates its 17th year with a three-ring party of entertainment at the Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus
Circusmaximus_WEB2-214x300on April 26th beginning at 8 p.m. (For those interested, a Ringmaster’s VIP cocktail party begins at 7 p.m.) AFT’s premier fundraiser, hosted by About Face board members Benjamin Sprunger and Billy Lullo, combines the surprising delights of the Big Top with
WonkaBall-4the inspired grandeur of this year’s venue, Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood). For tickets ($135) and more info, please visit aboutfacetheatre.com or call 773.784.8565.
 

Hats Off to the Girls We Love inviteDon’t miss “Hats Off to Girls We Love,” a tea and fashion presentation hosted by the dynamic Sarah Wood benefitting the Wood Family Foundation on April 27th at 2 p.m. at Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Author Cynthia Bardes will be a special guest. Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for kids up to age 12. For more info, please click here or call 312-924-9234. (And I can’t WAIT to tell you what Sarah and Kerry are planning for August! OMG! They are both heroes at giving back! 🙂


WGN segment 3-13Thanks so much to WGN-TV for having me on to discuss my FIVE top event picks for April! I won’t tell but hope you’ll watch it here! Thanks to my sweet friend Marissa Rudman for this clip – just love her!


1Don’t miss the latest edition of A Perfect Event’s E-Mag – Debi Lilly has done it again assembling the best of the best to contribute to her beyond beautiful magazine! I’m so proud to have an
2 - Nate and Nancy Golden before going to boarding schoolarticle (“Things Our Mothers Taught Us”) included! This Mother’s Day feature offers words of wisdom from the mothers of comedian Tom Dreesen,
3 - Tom Dreesen and his mom Glenore (Algoe) Dreesenphilanthropist and football star Israel Idonije, television star/author/designer Nate Berkus, super chef Art Smith, shoe god Brian Atwood and media darling Val Warner. I’m not one bit surprised why these special people became who they are – it’s advice everyone can use! Congrats to contributors Amanda Puck, Eric Himel, Matt Savage, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Elaina Vazquez and Corey Amaro, among others. ALL great reads here (my article appears on pages 26 & 27)!  And a special thanks
6 - My mom Elsa Mae Stott and me in a Rosemary Fanti drawingto friend/artist Rosemary Fanti for this wonderful image of my mom Elsa Stott and me in South Beach where some of our best memories happened! She was my best friend. 🙂 (Check out more pics here!)


With Shantell Jamison at VocaloAnd, last but not least, I was so thrilled to be interviewed on Vocalo/NPR radio by Shantell Jamison for her (ahem) “Wise Woman of the Week” segment…I know, I know. Hear it here, if you want!

Hope you all have spring in your hearts even if it isn’t here in reality and I hope you enjoy this week’s Candid Candace!
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

 


Amy Tara Koch, Molly Each, Jared Hatch, Greg Hyder, Kevin Aeh, JC Steinbrunner, Amalie DruryP.S. Congrats to the Peninsula Chicago and Greg Hyder on the fabulous party held in honor of Conde Nast Traveler’s special April feature, “The Grand Tour of Asia.” As always, it was a perfect event! (Want to see more pics? Just click here!)

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 25, 2012 · 9:38 pm

CHESHIRE CAT SMILES ALL AROUND FOR OFFICE MAX’S GREEN TIE BALL!

…PLUS 30/30/30 FOR TCW MAG, BRIAN ATWOOD’S A-LIST PARTY, HENSON’S HIGH HONOR, HORSING AROUND AT THE EVERGREEN INVITATIONAL, PRIMO CLASSICO, HARRIS THEATER’S ONE NIGHT COUP, GOLD COAST FASHION AWARDS RETURNS, LATINO FASHION WEEK, CHEF ERIC LANLARD WANTS TO “TART IT UP!,” A MAGICAL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Guests with Red Moon Theater actorsThe Office Max Green Tie Ball just keeps getting bigger and better! I didn’t think they could top last year’s theme – “The Wizard of Oz” – but with the fantastic addition of Red Moon Theater Company, “Alice in Wonderland” came Blog 2 - Joanna and Grant DePorterto life this year for more than 3,000 guests. From the moment you entered the steel factory grounds of A. Finkl & Sons, you knew magic was afoot when you walked the GREEN carpet! Dramatic visuals thrilled your senses everywhere you looked beginning with striking artwork from this classic book streaming down the sides of the Blog 3 - Emcee Val Warner with the Landon Twinstent as you entered the grounds. The Mad Hatter’s tent made me gasp as I saw oversized lamps and fabulous scenes projected on every wall. And the FOOD! There were more than 70 food stations and I don’t mean little tastings: This was REAL food prepared by Blog 4 - Interviewing Pete Wentz and girlfriend Meagan Camperchefs who wanted to be noticed. Rub BBQ Company served a BBQ martini consisting of coleslaw, cornbread, baker beans and smoked pork shoulder all in one cup! Zapatista’s carnitas on rice flower tortillas with jalapenos was mouthwatering and Flo & Santos served ravarogi (meat pierogies) with vodka Blog 5 - Sarah Cooley (2nd from R), Richard Roeper and friendscream sauce. Thank goodness I didn’t get to ALL 70 restaurants, although I did see great stuff from Frog & Snail, GT Fish & Oyster, III Forks, Rosebud, 25 Degrees, Province, Frontier and Public House. I was especially touched by Blog 6 - Jerry Roeper and David Lissnerthe offerings from the sweet kids from Bethlehem Lutheran Church who were on hand from the After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program. Proud ASM Culinary Director/Chef Gloria Hafer said, “These students are special to us and I know they will succeed because of the Blog 7 - After School Matters students with their creationsconcern of the people here who have taken an interest in the program. I’m working diligently through ASM to promote self-esteem, excellence, and appreciation of the culinary arts.” Students in the program prepared, displayed and served more Blog 8 - Shari and Paul Duffythan 2,000 “Alice in Wonderland”-themed cookies and cakes. I watch a lot of master chef shows and these kids could teach them a thing or two from what I saw on this night. Shannon Roche, Gisel Bahena, Abigail Garcia, Lily Harris and Omar Cardenas proudly displayed their works of art and told me how Blog 9important the program was to them. Gisel plans on working in the culinary arts and Omar was happy to have a place to go that would keep him “off the streets.” Abigail commented on the fun she had and how much she loved learning how to Blog 10 - Zac Stemer and Jordan Stemercook. This was sheer genius by the event organizers to add these kids so they could highlight this worthy organization! Of the 50 world-renowned chefs invited to this event, After School Matters was the only teen initiative asked to participate. The event was emceed for the second year by Blog 11 - Elena Samokhina and magical friend“Windy City Live” hosts Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini. When I interviewed them for Watch312.com, they were so excited about expanding to the weekend, with a Sunday edition coming soon. Ryan jokingly said, “You will be sick of us soon like my parents.” They are too cute for words, as we Blog 12 - Susan and John Collettiall know! Corri McFadden, glam e-Drop Off founder and star of VH1’s “House of Consignment,” and Donald Storino, principal and co-founder of the government affairs firm Fidelity Consulting Group, served as co-chairs. This Blog 13 - DJ Rock Cityevent benefitted Chicago Gateway Green, which was founded by Donald DePorter in 1986. His son, Grant DePorter, President of Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group and Chairman of Gateway Green, carries on his father’s tradition in grand style. “As Gateway Green’s Blog 14signature fundraising event, the Green Tie Ball not only raises our mission but also serves as the catalyst for our ongoing beautification programs, including the Expressway Partnership, for which proceeds from this year’s gala will be directed.” The night also Blog 15included top notch dance music from deejays Justin Jacobson (founder and impresario of Platinum Events), Rock City and former Fall Out Boy bassist and half of the Black Cards duo, Pete Wentz. He showed up on the green carpet around 9:45 p.m. with gorgeous arm candy, Meagan Camper. My friend and celebrity stylist Eric Himel styled them both to perfection saying, “For
Co-chair Corri McFadden and friendPete, I wanted to do something different other than rocker attire.” Wentz was decked out in a fabulous forest green suit from Oak Street’s SuitSupply with a Blog 17 - Agnes Miles and Catie Keoghbow tie. When I asked him how he liked his outfit, he said, “I feel a little Farrakhan-ish but that’s okay, I'm a fan.” He was dancing and tweeting pics of the crowd as he deejayed. So cute! Meagan was in a sleek black dress from Top Shop with green Alexis Bittar earrings. Such a stylish pair! I loved Eric’s Blog 18outfit, too, that featured a green skull necklace on a leather cord from Beatnik's, a great store in Lakeview. Entertainment included live performances from Chicago cover bands Dr. Bombay Blog 19 - Brenda Arelano and Lisa Apratiand South of 80. Co-host Ryan Chiaverini thrilled the crowd when he got onstage to sing his now signature song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The Rivers Casino tent featured craps, blackjack and roulette. There was also a Red Moon bubble-blowing, mobile DJ, Blog 20 - Charitable gambling courtesy of Rivers Casinoan Office Max photo booth filled with “Alice in Wonderland” props and “Hawk Man,” who hovered over the crowd on a 20-foot crane flapping his massive, feathered wings (also from Red Moon). Partygoers happily fell right down the Blog 21 - “Hawk Man” from Red Moon Theater Companyrabbit hole at this party! Executive producer for this magical night was “The Food Dude,” David Lissner, who is also a board member of Chicago Gateway Green. This magical night raised $450K to benefit Chicago Gateway Green. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…to see other photos in my Chicago Tribune column by Beth Rooney, please click here and to see all of the magic, WATCH my Watch312.com video right HERE!)

 

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=490&deepLinkEmbedCode=5vZTAwNjpHS-1s63m0aoyIn01542hGze&height=276&embedCode=5vZTAwNjpHS-1s63m0aoyIn01542hGze&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

Blog 1 - Brian Atwood with Heidi Klum and Rachel ZoeHandsome shoe god Brian Atwood celebrated his new campaign and first flagship store at 655 Madison Avenue in New York with a star-filled celebration at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Wednesday, September 5th. More than 700 guests mixed Blog 2 - Proud mom Dusty congratulates Brianwith A-list celebs as DJ Mick Boogie played hot mixes but nothing could be hotter than the sky high heels so coveted around the globe by this charming designer who is adored by all. Since its 2001 debut, the Brian Atwood Collection has instilled shoe lust in a legion of fans for its infusion of glamour, exquisite Blog 3 - Kim Kardashian with Brian Atwoodcraftsmanship, hyperluxe design and attention to detail. His award-winning styles have earned him the CDA Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for Best Accessory Design and the 2010 Footwear News Designer of the Year Award. His first global campaign this past summer, a print campaign and Blog 4 - Handsome life partners Dr. Jake Deutsch and Briancompanion fashion film tell the story of the modern woman's desire for fantasy and control. The new fall print and video campaign were shot together in London by Mert & Marcus with creative direction by Giovanni Bianco and feature supermodel Candice Swanepoel. The fashion film, The Sex is in the Heel video series, is a voyeuristic flashback by a mysterious seductress reliving the Blog 5 - Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, cute friend and Jordan Stemerprevious night's fantasy and will be a part of the film section on the newly redesigned website. I imagine this is exactly how women feel after a night of wearing a pair of Brian Atwoods! In honor of the evening, DeLeon Tequila presented four signature cocktails: Maniac, The Sex Blog 7 - Heidi Klum having fun with Brian!is in the Heel, Midnight Purple and The Atwood. Ahhhhhh, so cute! Guests seen at the celebration included Heidi Klum, Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Rachel Roy, Ryan Lochte, Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Nate Berkus, Hannah Bronfman, Estelle, Gabrielle Union, Katie Lee, Candice Swanepoel, Giovanni Bianco, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, proud parents Yolanda (Dusty) and Dr. Alex Stemer, Blog 6 - Zak Stemer, Ryan Lochte, Stephanie WeissAbby and Dr. Jim Lipton, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina Mariano, beautiful sister Jordan Stemer and Jackson Miranda, darling brother Zack Stemer, longtime friend milliner Loreta Corsetti, Peter Kousothanos, Nina Aversa, Stephanie Weiss, Andi Laidlaw, Cameron Laidlaw, Jerimiah and Brian's handsome husband, Dr. Jake Deutsch. It was a joy-filled affair filled with beautiful people. Long may you reign, Shoe God Brian Atwood – can't wait for your first store opening at 655 Madison Avenue coming October 4th!!!

Blog 1I love TCW Magazine and I’m so thrilled to be celebrating their 30th
anniversary with them on October 30th with a party benefitting 30 charities in town that assist women and children in Blog 2need! Leave it to Sherren Leigh to come up with this clever idea for her party which will also include a silent auction called Pumpkins on Parade. Faux “funkin” pumpkins will be decorated by local “celebrities” to be auctioned off.  I must say she corralled me for this funkin decorating and I tried but had to relinquish my duties to my dear friend (and crafty Blog 3 - Tissy Eggleston, my “Funkin” carving savior!genius), Tissy Eggleston. So, even though I will have a pumpkin entered, just know it was a collaborative effort! LOL! There will also be an open bar, food stations, a live band with guests encouraged to wear costumes. Tickets are $150 and I know this will be ONE event you shouldn’t miss! Happy birthday, TCW!

Kathleen HensonPR News recently awarded a BIG honor to Chicago’s own Kathleen Henson and her creative Henson Consulting firm with National Small PR Firm of the Year! They also won nationally for best Anniversary Campaign for 373141_60075977775_1321684491_nLettuce Entertain You’s 40th anniversary last summer. Kathleen started her firm 12 years ago in her basement with just a laptop, a phone and a rolodex after her first child, Emily (she now has FIVE!) was only nine months old! I can’t wait to see where this dynamic redhead with a heart of gold flies to next! Congrats to you KH and to Henson Consulting on all of your great work!

 

Blog 1 - Christy Cressey, host MK Pritzker and friendA venerable who’s who of Chicago traveled north to the private 230-acre Evergreen Farm owned by JB and MK Pritzker on Saturday, September 6th, to witness one of the Midwest’s most esteemed equestrian events, the Evergreen Invitational. Hosted by MK and The Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Blog 2 - Neal Zucker, Nora Daley and Sean conroypresented by Northern Trust, this fourth biennial equestrian charity exclusive “by-invite-only” event attracted more than 600 guests who came to support the elegant sport and witness nationally and internationally ranked riders compete. More than $1.1 million was raised from this year’s event with proceeds benefitting under-funded women’s health programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. To Blog 3 - Laura Linback on Whittadate, the Evergreen Invitational has raised more than $4 million. The $25K Junior/Amateur Owner Classic kicked Blog 4 - Ricky, Estelle and Agatha Walgreenoff the event with Meagan Nusz winning on horse, Vesuvius. The $75K Grand Prix blue ribbon went to Laura Linback and horse Whittaker MVNZ. In between the two events, hundreds of guests were spotting enjoying the mild weather and admiring some of the exquisite Graff jewels on display or lusting after a number of Ferraris dotting the property Blog 5 - Julie Latsko, Traci and Mario Tricoci and family(which were available for test drives courtesy of Lake Forest Sportscars). A promenade of shops featured merchandise from Lee Allison Company, Escada, Fabbri Furs, Chicago Luxury Beds and Blog 6 - Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer and Julie Selakovichdozens more. A lavish buffet lunch was catered by beloved George Jewell of George Jewell Catering. Guests seen on the scene included Mimi Olson (President of the WB of Northwestern), co-chairs Joan Moore and Christy Blog 7 - Sargent familyCressey, Meredith Wood-Prince, Nora Daley with husband Sean Conroy, Mich Mag’s J.P. Anderson and Dan Uslan, Neal Zucker, Leslie Hindman and Tempel Smith, Traci and Mario Tricoci, Jr. Blog 8and family, Estelle Walgreen, Quintin Primo, Mayari Pritzker, Susan and Joe Ahern, Dr. Kris and Tricia Rooney Alden, Thea Robinson, Dean Harrison, Curt Bailey, host JB Pritzker and Dan UslanJulie Selakovich, Curt Bailey, Christy Cressey, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer, Bethany Paris, Linda Yu and Stuart Ellison, Susie and Walter Jaco
bson, Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin, Tom Cole, Denise and Adam Hoeflich and Stephen and Diane Falk. (Photos by Mariah Smith…to view more pics, please click here!)
 
Blog 1 - Hostess Shirley Ryan, Kim White (WB President), Kathleen Carbonara (Ball Co-Chair)Members of the Field Museum Women’s Board are immersing themselves in Indian culture as they prepare for the annual gala on October 13th, “The Maharaja Ball.” The gala, co-chaired by Kathleen Blog 2 - Marty Peterson, Anupy Singla, Kim White and Sandy DeromediCarbonara and Susan Faurot, will celebrate the museum’s opening of “Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts” exhibit coming in November. The exhibit is organized by the Victoria & Blog 3 - Kim White and Renee CrownAlbert Museum in London. The first of two high profile kick-off events was hosted by Patrick and Shirley Ryan at their Winnetka home with more than 50 women in attendance for the annual invitation stuffing party,
Blog 4 - Peggy Snorf, Susan McBride, Betsy Ahearne, Leslie Zentner and Marty Peterson“House in the Garden.” The second event was hosted by bestselling Indian cookbook author and former Chicago TV reporter Anupy Singla, who gave a cooking demo and prepared an Indian lunch for the Women’s Board. She schooled the Blog 5 - Ball co-chairs Kathleen Carbonara and Susan Faurot with Anupy SinglaBoard in the fine points of Indian cuisine and cooked recipes from her newest cookbook, “Vegan Indian Cooking.” A trip along Blog 6 - Stuffing invites at the Ryans'Devon Avenue for sari shopping was included! This gala is sure to be a sellout so please click here for tickets and more info. Congrats to all of the hardworking Women’s Board members!

PrimoPrimo Classico d’Italia, a benefit for the Primo Center, will take place at Diane and Quintin Primo’s home in Lake Forest on Sunday, September 30th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will be new and vintage Ferraris along with beautiful models and great Italian food prepared and donated by leading Chicago restaurants such as Pelago, Prosecco, Tocco, Florentine, Volare and Fred’s. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit homeless women and children who rely on the services of the Primo Center. For tickets and more info, please click here!

Sweet Honey in the RockWhat do you get when you combine a Grammy Award-winning female a cappella group with a youth orchestra ensemble led by President Obama’s first nominee to the National Council of the Arts? I would call it one magnificent night Sphinx Virtuosiin Chicago at the Harris Theater! On Thursday, October 4th only, they will debut a performance by Sphinx Virtuosi with Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Chicago Children’s Choir with a premiere of its new work, Affirmations for a New World. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $10 to $35! For tickets and more information, please visit www.harristheaterofchicago.org.

Gold coast fashion show imageThe 57th Gold Coast Fashion Award show, the signature fundraising event of The Children’s Service Board, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, will be at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan, on Friday afternoon, September 28th beginning at 11 a.m. with a cocktail reception. Emerging designers will compete for the coveted Gold Coast Fashion Award with audience members casting their votes. Last year’s winner, Fabiola Arias, will open the show with her fall Fabiola+Arias+Fabiola+Arias+Backstage+Fall+vvtEcXzRq9Glcollection and designers Lyn Devon, Tess Giberson, Wes Gordon, Stacy Lomnan, Misha Nonoo, Rolando Santana, Verlaine and Rubin Singer will be competing for the 2012 award.  Retail partners this year include Chalk, Mark Shale, McElroy Furs, Neiman Marcus, Perchance, Frances Heffernan and Saks Fifth Avenue. David Yurman will once again host the Grand Staircase entrance during the cocktail hour with displays of fabulous jewelry. Tickets begin at $200 and can be purchased by visiting www.gcfas.com.
 
Latino Fashion Week Save the DateNow in its sixth year, Latino Fashion Week will premier its 2012 tour with the theme “Images of Fashion.” Co-founded by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon, Jr., the tour will include Dallas, Chicago and Miami, and will honor photographers and videographers involved in the exhibition. Highlighted in the Chicago exhibit is globally renowned fashion photographer, Daniel Garriga. This five-day event will include runway shows, celebrity appearances, VIP receptions, a one-day Fashion Lounge and Expo, and much more! The Kick-Off event, “Lights, Camera, Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party,” will be at Zhou B Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th St. on Tuesday, October 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. (For tickets and more info, please call 773.865.7313 or 773.251.3329.
 
Tart-it-up-eric-lanard-e1343125285112And now someone you should know! London-based Chef Eric Lanlard is coming to the Windy City on Tuesday, October 30th, to celebrate the launch of his latest book, “Tart it Up!”(Don’t you just love this title!?) Eric is a master patissier and two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Jesus Salguiero, Chef Eric Lanlard and Naushab AhmedAwards. Having trained in France, Eric moved to London where he ran the patisserie business for Albert and Michel Roux. For the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, he was commissioned to create a recipe (The Elizabeth Sponge) for the celebration! Eric has also appeared in a number of TV series, including top Brit hit, “Glamour Puds,” that have helped him build a global fan base. He’s charming and witty with four books under his belt (so far): “Master Cakes,” “Cox,” ElizabethCake260“Cookies & Cakes,” “Cake Boy” and his latest, “Tart it Up!” Hosted by Jean Zivkovic and Don Newcomb, a champagne reception (with delicious gourmet tastings) is planned at the Ritz Carlton Club (located at 160 E. Pearson) on October 30th. So please come meet my “sweet” friend and "Tart It Up!" (For reservations – $99 – please call 312.777.1090.)
 
StarvingArtistInvitationFinal_emailThe Chicago Artists' Coalition presents its Starving Artist benefit on Saturday, October 6th at 217 N. Carpenter St. beginning at 7 p.m. Artists and chefs will be paired to inspire a dish that’s served at the event and a piece of artwork that results will be auctioned off. There will be a charcuterie battle and food installations. Participants will include food preservationist Tara Lane, artists Laura Letinsky, Jeanne Dunning, Erik Peterson, Jenny Kendler and chefs Jared Van Camp, Erling Wu-Bower and Beverly Kim. For tickets (beginning at $150), please visit www.2012starvingartist.com. 
 
Blog 1 - Keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin and Tribune’s Joycelyn WinneckeThe University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business recently hosted a day-long seminar series that included a fascinating personal branding segment with keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin (principal of Jan Anne Dubin Consulting) and Joycelyn Winnecke (Chicago Tribune vice president and Blog 2 - New Sunday Tribune Candid Candace format!associate editor). I was even more thrilled when she included me as a “Personal Branding Pro” along with Christie Hefner, Amy Guth, Cheryle Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Jeanne Gang, Ron Culp and Bridget Brennan. It was an honor to be included and introduced to the standing room only crowd! Congrats to Jan and Joyce on a thrilling talk! And speaking of the Chicago Tribune, I hope you enjoyed the new format for my Sunday Candid Candace column! 🙂
 
Muttstrut2012The 9th Annual Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR) Mutt Strutt is set for Saturday, September 29th. Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celebrity emcee of the event. (For more info, please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org.)

Dr. Sandy GoldbergThe 8th Annual Silver Lining Event will be held on Saturday, October 6th, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, located at 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., beginning at 6:30 p.m. This black tie event will be held in the Regency Ballroom and will present darling Sonya Jackson with the EVY Award! Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in honor of her late mother, A Silver Lining Foundation provides cancer resource information and outreach as well as Sterling_eventproviding funding for free screening mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women and men at seven partner hospitals. Can’t wait to celebrate your honor Sonya for this great cause! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)
 
Whew, talk about an action packed month! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy some of these fun events or I hope I will see you at an upcoming one soon! Also, please follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) for breaking news from around this beautiful town!
 
Mable Buckner and husband James BucknerLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful Mable Buckner, who has recently been promoted to President and CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce!!! They are SO lucky to have YOU, Mable! Congrats!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 13, 2012 · 10:40 am

CHICAGO’S FASHION’S NIGHT OUT – FILLED WITH STARS & STYLE!

…PLUS MS. FOSTER’S "STELLABRATION," OLD TOWN "CRUSHES" IT (WITH A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO!), AN EVENING ON ASTOR, THE JOFFREY BALLET’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS, FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION BALL, THE 48TH CHICAGO FILM FEST’S BIG STARS, PAWS’ LUCK AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

Blog 1 - Joe Cutaia, Jessica Zweig, Erica Bethe Levin, Shannon Williams and Justin JacobsonFashion’s Night Out began in 2009 when Vogue editor Anna Wintour created the event to help retailers during the height of the recession. It has spread to 18 countries with 4,500 events across the U.S. alone and is now a two-week-long affair culminating on
Blog 2 - Bruce MacArthur, Ali Larter, Hayes MacArthur and Shelley MacArthur Farley at 900 ShopsSeptember 6th. Chicago’s FNO did not disappoint: “Fashion Police” star Kelly Osbourne kicked off the Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival (presented by MasterCard) on August 24th and it only accelerated from
Blog 3 - 900 Shops Marketing Mngr. Sarah Burrows with Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan, event sponsorthere with almost every store along the Mag Mile having some sort of exciting fashion event. Macy’s on State Street offered reality stars as its draw with Aviva Drescher of “The Real Housewives of New York” and Nzimiro Oputa of “Fashion Star” and Neiman Marcus offered up a runway presentation hosted by “House of
Blog 4 - Mich Mag’s JP Anderson and Alexi GiannouliasConsignment” star Corri McFadden. Saks Fifth Avenue’s party was hosted by Amanda Puck, Kimberly Burt, Kristina McGrath, Lauren Buxbaum, Lisa Frame, Lisa Sweitzer, Sam Saifer Berngard, Sherri Hoke and Susanna Negovan. Water Tower Place hosted an “In Fashion Lounge,” which featured a series of special workshops including a Gilt City Chicago Night, a culinary demo, a fall trunk show with
Blog 5 - Erica Strama, Allison Cooke, Jenny Polachek and Leah ChavieMichael Hill and an Akira footwear trunk show. Sarca – one of my favorite boutiques – hosted a daytime event that included styling tips from Rad and Refined and makeup applications by fashionable blogger Shannon O’Brien. Barneys New York donated 10 percent of sales to the Human Rights Campaign from 5 to 8 p.m. The streets were packed with
Blog 6fashion savvy guests who had raided their closets for their favorite pieces to wear to this round robin of events. The 900 Shops had a line a mile long of people anxious to get into the VIP Party to see gorgeous actress Ali Larter, who arrived with her hunky actor husband, Hayes MacArthur. (His
Blog 7 - Sally and Kerry Shorr, Jennifer Sutton and Katie McLenaghannew film, “Bachelorette” opened 9/7.) This is one busy, BUSY Hollywood couple with Ali’s book, “Kitchen Revelry” coming out soon. It’s not your
Blog 8 - Maggie Morgan (center) with mom and friendaverage cookbook: It embraces culinary mistakes! (Sounds like something for me…) She also just finished a movie called “Lovesick” with Matt LeBlanc, a romantic comedy about the delusions that come with falling in love. This busy couple was accompanied by Hayes’ parents, Bruce MacArthur and
Blog 9 - 900 Shops celebrity Host Ali Larter with Glossed & Found’s Graham Kostichis glam mother/chanteuse Shelley MacArthur Farley, whose husband, Bill, joined the group later. The 900 Shops teamed up with Michigan Avenue Magazine and McGrath Lexus and Acura for its second annual FNO themed “Fame, Fashion & Flavor.” Nearly 3,500 attendees came out
Blog 10 - Sheila O’Grady and Sharyl Mackeyto party at this chic, multi-level venue that also featured makeup applications, manicures, massages and hair styling provided by Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Spa and Bloomingdale’s. While pampering and beautifying, the partygoers rocked out to DJ Megan Taylor before they jumped in front of the GlossedandFound.com (recent Rising Star Award winners) photo
Blog 11 - Israel Idonije and cute friendbooth for fun pics. There was a Gastronomy by Groupon restaurant tasting featuring Stella Artois brews and bites from some of Chicago’s top restaurants including Shaw’s Crab House, Frankie’s Scaloppine, Tavernita, Mercadito, Market and Sprinkles. A fall fashion show styled by Eric Himel was a hit with the crowd. I was proud to be a host of this event
Blog 13along with Common (Honorary Host), J.P. Anderson, Les Coney, Max Crowley, Jena Gambaccini, Stacy Herpe, Eric Himel, Israel Idonije, Sonya Jackson, Anna Kimball, Graham Kostic, Whitney Lasky, Kristina McGrath, Noelle Provencial, Mary Astor Smithe, Angi Taylor, Sharon Trudell, Dan Uslan, Valerie Warner and Kelli Zink. Congrats to Sarah Burrows (900 Shops Marketing Manager), Ryan Beshel (900 Shops PR Guru) and their teams on an outstanding night of fashion!
 

Blog 14 - Stylish North Bridge Shops peepsMy other favorite FNO event occurred at the Shops at North Bridge. This event had a unique take for FNO that featured a stylist’s fall fashion challenge. Local bloggers, fashionistas and stylists – who included Amy Olson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi
Blog 15 - Samantha Amato and Rhonda Sanderson at North Bridge ShopsSheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos and Amanda Wolfson with Dee Brodlo – created looks that were displayed on large pedestals that began at the entryway and ended at the VIP Stylist’s Studio Lounge in front of Nordstrom. I was happy to be a judge along with Carrie Lannon, Katie Schroeder, Elaine Doremus, Jessie Kalin and Lisa Ackerman for this fun-filled competition co-hosted by CS Magazine. The night
Blog 16also included a private VIP reception featuring Russian Standard Vodka cocktails, small bites from Corky’s Catering and delicious sweets courtesy of Vosges
Blog 17 - 900 Shops’ PR Guru Ryan Beshel with cute friendHaut Chocolat. Event producer Amy Olson (who was paired with Nordstrom) won for Judges’ Choice; Suzanne Kopulos (Garmental.com) was paired with White House and won Shoppers’ Choice, fashionista Maggie Morgan (paired with XXI Forever) won
Blog 17 - Amy Olson accepts award at Shops at North Bridgethe Drive in Style award for Most Creative and Cheeky Chicago’s Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin (paired with United Colors of Benetton) won for Most Wearable. I loved ALL of the
Jessica Zweig, Suzanne Kopulos and Erica Bethe Levindesigns and marveled at the talent of these stylistas. Congrats to Erica Strama, Allison Cooke and their teams for this delightful and exciting FNO! And NOW you know ALL of the Windy City’s Fashion’s Night Out news…though I hope you were there to enjoy it, too!!! (To see ALL of the fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, Steve Starr and Daniel Boczarski, please click here!!


Blog 1 - tella cuts her beautiful Eli’s cheesecake!Stella Foster always signed off on her column with "Yeah, I said it" and at her BIG retirement party August 28th, she did indeed say it to NBC president and general manager Larry Wert when he asked her point blank if she was really
Blog 2 - Sylvia Perez, LeeAnn Trotter, Stuart Ellison, Linda Yu and Diana Palomarretiring. Her hesitation and half-hearted "Yeah" gave everyone in the room some hope for the future with this much beloved columnist. More than 700 fans, friends and supporters turned out
Blog 3 - With Ken Bedford, Stella, Reverend Jesse Jackson and friendsat the Cultural Center to see/hear Stella Foster tell it like it is for the last time…or was it? I personally don't see our dynamic Stella sitting in a rocking chair from now into perpetuity but as we all know, she does need some rest after
Blog 4 - Juanita Jordan, Donna Grant and friend43 years of deadlines! I know she's already being courted by a variety of media types to bring her honesty and inclusiveness to their outlets so I think it's only a matter of time before she returns in some way, shape or form back
Blog 5 - Stella’s loving sis, Jamie Foster Brown (in yellow headband) with friendsto the public arena. But on this night, it was all about paying homage to someone who has given us all so much. NBC's Art Norman served as emcee for a program that included tributes from Governor Pat Quinn, Warner Saunders, Melody Spann
Blog 6 - Ralph Hughes, Sharyl Lee Ralph and Tyronne StoudemireCooper, Dominic DiFrisco, Dori Wilson, Tom Dreesen, Larry Wert, Jamie Foster Brown, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Harry Ellis, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, State Representative Mary Flowers, Richard Dent,
Blog 7 - NBC’s Daniella Guzman and Martha MelmanShell Reyes, John Rogers, Allen Rafalson, moi 🙂 and many more. Governor Quinn called her "a woman for all seasons" and said, "They [the people] need your energy, your enthusiasm and your zest for life. We've been blessed by Stella covering the news
Blog 7 - Shauna Montgomery and Shelley MacArthur Farley with Stedman Grahamwith her human touch." Warner Saunders recounted a comment from her boss, Kup, who said, "I couldn't do my job without her." (And she had only been working for him six weeks at the time!) Saunders went on to
Blog 8 - Colleen Kelly, Rob Morhaim and Catie Keoghsay, "She was not hateful, not nasty and whenever she shot an arrow of criticism, she always dipped it in honey first. You're truly a Chicago treasure." NBC President Larry Wert said, "No one's been more fair or genuine than Stella." Melody Spann Cooper posed this question: "Have
Blog 9 - N’Digo’s Hermene Hartmanyou ever seen anybody with a gossip column who still keeps the best secrets in the world?" Melody then sang the theme from "The Golden Girls" with Theresa Griffen. The lyrics began with "Thank you for being a friend"…awwwww! The
Blog 9 - Reverend Jesse and Jacqueline Jacksonprogram continued with comments from Channel 2 News' Rob Johnson who said, "Thanks to Stella for making this a better town to live in." Reverend Jesse Jackson offered a prayer reflecting, "We can't take this moment for granted. Thank you Lord for the gift you've given us in Stella Foster and thanks for the gifts you gave to her." Harry Ellis said, "There will never be another you!" Dominic DiFrisco, a well-known leader in the Italian
Blog 10 - RL’s Chef Ryan Pitts and Rich VarnesAmerican community who awarded Stella with the Dante Award, had this to say: "Stella, the name
Blog 11 - John Colletti and Ed Howlett, Jr.means ‘star’ in Italian. She's a star in our lives and she's a champion of truth. We are infinitely privileged to walk beside you." President of the Chicago Journalists Association Allen Rafelson, who recently awarded Stella with a Lifetime Achievement Award, said Stella's appearance for the gala broke attendance records. Stella's sister,
Blog 12 - Robert Mills, Tracey Tarantino and my ChuckJamie Foster Brown, said, "She's retiring from the Sun-Times but she can't retire from who she is. Stella IS Chicago!" The
Blog 13Stellabration committee was chaired by Stella's longtime friend Ken Bedford and co-chaired by PR maven extraordinaire Dionne Williams. Members included John Bellamy, Michelle Boone, Gloria Brown, Les Coney, Carolyn
Blog 14Curry, Alex Dana, Dominic DiFrisco, Mary Frances Fagan, Craig Gilmore, Hermene Hartman, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Kim Nash, Lisa Newman, Art Norman, Bill Pry, Tim & Everett Rand, Shell Reyes, Donna Lear Robinson, John Rogers, Lorri Stacker, Robert Storman, Commissioner Debra Sims,
Blog 15 - Bonnie Spurlock, Dori Wilson, Janice Corley and friendAbe Thompson, Dori Wilson and moi. The night also included rousing numbers by The Together Band & Rich Aldana, DJ Sam Chatman and vocalist Antone. It was a night packed with love for this Chicago treasure and I'm hoping – like all of the other "Stellaholics" out there – that we haven't seen the last of her. Yeah, I said it! (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here to view more!)


Oldtown pic by jaunteddotcomAfter a brief name change, the annual end-of-summer festival in Old Town was back on September 2nd as “Crush in Old Town.” On Labor Day weekend, Wells Street was closed from North Avenue to Schiller for music, food, artwork and
Stanley_Paul-200x250custom designs in the Crush marketplace. Entertainment included Like Pioneers, Andrew Belle, Pet Lions and My Gold Mask. The event also included face painting, a magic show, crafting with Little Beans Café, delicious food from Trattoria Roma and a variety of fabulous wines from Galleria Wine & Liquors. Here’s how my Crush adventure unfolded on Watch312.com…with
Silver Whisper shipa special visit to the gorgeous home of Chicago’s most beloved bandleader/pianist, Stanley Paul! (Next year, Stanley will be hosting a Silversea’s tour from Stockholm to Copenhagen aboard the Silver Whisper from July 12th through 19th! His fast-paced, 45-minute show that includes nearly 300 rarely seen photographs will take you back to the days when glamour was GLAMOUR! (For more info, please call Candace Andreozzi at 561-306-6798 or email candace@posthastetravel.com.)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=640&deepLinkEmbedCode=s4Mml0NTpzDXVBUBlLTTAY91Spb5T0lq&height=360&embedCode=s4Mml0NTpzDXVBUBlLTTAY91Spb5T0lq&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy


Blog 1Eight years ago, Helen Melchior and I wanted to create an event to attract a younger crowd to The Joffrey Ballet and today, “Couture & Cocktails” has grown into the organization’s second largest fundraiser and we couldn’t be more excited! With dynamic
Blog 2 - Designer Pamella Roland with her cute family2012 co-chairs Kristina McGrath and Sonya Jackson, the tradition continues on Friday, September 28th, at the new McGrath Acura Dealership, located at 1301 N. Elston. Beloved designer Pamella Roland returns to C & C with a full runway fashion
Blog 3 - C & C co-chair Sonya Jackson with Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway (pic by www.sociallifechicago.com)show; there will also be once in a lifetime prizes, fun food (including sweets from Sugar Chic), live and silent auctions by Luxury Garage Sale, dancing with the Joffrey dancers and, for the first time, popular Chicago food trucks (including my favorites Babycakes and Southern Mac & Cheese)! And,
Blog 4 - C & C co-chair Kristina McGrath (styled by moi for TWC Mag)not to give away any surprises, but the opening of the event alone will be worth the cost of admission! So join us and experience the excitement and glamour of “Couture & Cocktails” this year! If you have a business you would like to have represented in the Tribute Book, or for tickets and more info, please click here. 

 

Blog 1 - Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker (BEST Table 2012 Winners)The 30th annual Evening on Astor brought out the competitive streaks in some of our town’s notables as they created extravagant, festive tablescapes for judging consideration. Hosted by the Gold Coast Neighbors Association, this annual block party and
Blog 2 - Peter Rogers, Wendy Chronister, Vern Broders (GCN Prez) and Francia Harringtonfundraiser brought out more than 800 people for a celebration that included the Michael Lerich Orchestra, pizzas, hot dogs, Italian sausage, face painting, children’s games, a photo booth and a dessert bar. Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy spoke along
Blog 3 - Lyn McKeaney and happy friend with her 2012 Table Awardwith 18th District Police Commander William Dunn. The BIG winner of the night for the 2012 Best Table Award went to Macy’s Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steven Stryker; others seen on the scene included Vern Broders (President of the Gold Coast Neighbors
Blog 4 - Margie Habermann, Christine Mallul, Suzie Glickman and Deborah ChapmanAssn.), Tiffani Kim, Bradley Griffith, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Paula and Peter Fasseas, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Janice Corley and Ray Blaney, Kim Gleeson, Heather Johnstone, Cheri Lawrence, Wendy
Blog 5 - Patrick Plante surrounded by friendsChronister, Kevin Sullivan, Cindy and Jack Fisher, Susie and Walter Jacobson (whose book, “Walter’s Perspective: A Memoir of Fifty Years in Chicago TV News” comes out in October), Margie
Blog 6 - Jonathan Wells, cute friend, Scott Bobek, Sally Jo Morris and Kevin SullivanHabermann, Christine Mallul, Deborah Chapman, Tim Egan, Lyn McKeaney, Scott Bobek, Sally Jo Morris, Liz Kores, Lauren Rapisand, Patrick Plante, Diva Lynne Jordan and Dorothy Whealan.  Funds raised from this event supported GCN in its efforts to protect, improve and beautify the neighborhood. (Check out more photos from this fun event here!)


Blog 1Mark your calendars now for this year’s Friends of Conservation Ball on Friday, October 12th! Hosted by FOC founder Reute Butler and celebrating the organization’s 30th anniversary, this event will be bigger and better than ever under the beautiful canopy
Blog 2 - Jim Fowler, Reute Butler, Zoraida Sambolin and friendsof the Winter Garden Ballroom of the historic Harold Washington Library! Zoraida Sambolin returns as emcee along with renowned wildlife expert Jim Fowler (of “Wild Kingdom” fame!) With a delicious dinner catered by George Jewell, there will also be a thrilling wildlife exposition of rare and beautiful animals. An auction of unique and exotic vacation adventures will include a London/Scotland package with a stay at
Blog 4 - Reute and Cloud, a rare snow leopardthe five-star luxury Langham in London, the Balmoral in Scotland and a trip aboard the historic Royal Scotsman. Other packages offer trips to China, India, South America, Patagonia Sur, Tanzania/Uganda and a weeklong Sea Cloud cruise
Blog 3 - The luxurious Langham Hotel, Londonaboard the intimate River Cloud II. The night will also feature a silent auction with rare art and gift packages as well as dancing under the stars to the Stu Hirsh Orchestra. Congrats in advance to Reute and unofficial event chair Paul Iacono on a one-of-a-kind fundraiser that will enable the FOC to partner with the local people in the Masai Mara area of Kenya to support traditional
Blog 5 - The luxury train, the Royal Scotsmanand sustainable ways of living in harmony with wildlife and ecosystems which helps keep our world intact. Founded in 1982, FOC was one of the world’s earliest leaders in the development of community conservation. For tickets and more information, please contact Sue Mitchell at 630-288-2714 or smitchell@friendsofconservation.org.
 

Blog 1 - Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Al Pacino star in Stand Up GuysThe eyes of the entertainment world will be on Chicago when the 48th Chicago International Film Festival opens with the world premiere of the highly-anticipated “Stand Up Guys” on Thursday, October 11th, at the Harris
Blog 3 - Director Fisher Stevens (pic by StarPulse.com)Theater. Produced by Chicagoan Tom Rosenberg and directed by Chicagoan Fisher Stevens, the film features an all-star cast that includes Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Julianna Margulies, all of whom will be in town to celebrate the opening night of the Festival on the 11th. (Lionsgate will release the film for an
Blog 4 - Julianna Margulies (pic by IMDB.com)Oscar qualifying run in December in L.A. and N.Y. and nationwide on January 11th.) “This is without a doubt the most exciting opening night for the Chicago International Film Festival in many years,” said Michael Kutza, Founder and Artistic Director of the CIFF. I’ll say!!!! (I’m also honored to say I’ll be co-hosting this event with
Blog 2the dynamic Rich Varnes.) The night begins at 6 p.m. with red carpet arrivals, a 7 p.m. welcome and guest presentation, a 7:30 p.m. film presentation and a 9:30 p.m. reception at the Chicago Cultural Center. For tickets (beginning at just $35) and more info, please click here or call 312-332-FILM. 
 

Zoe_logoThe ZOE Foundation will host its second annual In-Rhythm Benefit on Friday, September 21st, at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, located at 163 E. Walton. The black tie evening will feature emcee Val Warner and Dr. David Montgomery. Entertainment will be provided by Lynne Jordan & The Shivers with a presentation of the 2012 Gift of Life Award to
Lynne Jordan & the ShiversMr. David Rubin, a philanthropic supporter of the foundation as well as a patient who has mastered atrial fibrillation. This event creates awareness and is dedicated to finding a cure for atrial fibrillation (AF) and elimination of strokes and heart failure. For more info, please visit www.ZFFORAF.org.

 

Guys Night Out inviteThe Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC), a non-profit organization working with abused children, will hold its fifth annual “Guys Night Out for the Kids” event at Carmichael’s Steak House (located at 1052 W. Monroe) on Thursday, September 20th. Chicago Bear Charles Tillman is the honorary chair who will be joined by other athletes, sports personalities, golf pros and community and business leaders. The event will include an indoor BBQ, games, music, premium cigar
Charles Tillman and daughter Tiannamakers and liquor vendors in a tailgating atmosphere. Other athletes expected to attend include former Bear “Big Cat” Williams, Richard Dent, “LA” Mike Richardson, Jim Thornton, Ron Kittle, Dan Pasqua and Dan Hampton. All proceeds from “Guys Night Out” benefit the CCAC and the victims of sexual abuse in the Chicago area. For tickets, beginning at $100, and more info, please visit www.chicagocac.org. 
 

LuckyDo you need a little luck? Well, look no further than PAWS Chicago, located at 1997 N. Clybourn, where Lucky, a two year-old miniature Schnauzer, is
PAWSChicagoready and waiting for YOU! He came to PAWS after he was dropped off at the city pound weighing only 16 pounds. He’s an energetic little guy who loves people and playtime. Please help this precious pooch live up to his name by
Chase Community Giving Programgiving him a great forever home! (Visit PAWS’ website or call 773.935.PAWS for more details.) And while we’re on the subject, PAWS Chicago is competing with 196 charities nationwide for grants ranging from $10K to $250K from the Chase Community Giving Program. If you’re so inclined, please help by voting for them through September 19th at www.pawschicago.org/chase! Good luck…and adopt Lucky! 🙂
 
Hope you’re all enjoying the “dog” days of summer (pun intended) & I hope to see you at some of these cool events around town soon!
 
Love always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com



Big Night InviteP.S. As you all know I’m a sucker for our furry friends so here is another great event that I hope you’ll be able to make! BIG NIGHT CELEBRITY CHEFS BENEFIT will take place under the fabulous Tiffany Dome of Preston Bradley Hall in the Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington, on Wednesday, September 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. This event is hosted by the Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control and will feature celebrity Chef Jackie Shen, who, along with about a dozen of her well-known chef friends, will each prepare delicious dishes for this wonderful cause! A fabulous live auction will include exquisite jewelry from Sidney Garber. So come join us, enjoy the music, relax and have a Mutt-ini as we help our four legged friends find forever homes. (Tickets are $100 in advance and $125 at the door…visit www.fcacc.org for more info.)

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 4, 2012 · 10:54 am

KING OF COMEDY STEVE HARVEY SETS SIGHTS ON CHICAGO!

…PLUS SERVICE CLUB GOES TO THE RACES, A “PERFECT” EMAG, LINDA CLIFFORD’S “ONE NIGHT STAND,” WHERE YOU SHOULD BE FOR FNO, FRANCES HAS A NEW “JEWEL,” ZACUTO FOUNDER TURNS 50, JANE SEYMOUR’S OPEN HEART, TOM TAKES ST. TROPEZ, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO, CHICAGO TRIBUNE WHITE HOUSE DISCUSSION AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Steve and Marjorie Harvey with Larry WertIn a stroke of genius, NBC Universal has nabbed popular entertainer Steve Harvey for his own show, “The Steve Harvey Show,” premiering today, September 4th. The Launch Party at the Hard Rock Café on August 22nd was by-invite-only and featured Blog 2 - Larry surrounded by a bevy of NBC Beautiesa live performance by Jeffrey Osbourne. Everyone was in high spirits and excited to meet this one man media empire. From his comedy throne, he has parlayed his genius into best-selling books (“Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man”), movies (“The Blog 3 - Linda Johnson Rice, Marjorie Harvey and Desiree RogersOriginal Kings of Comedy”), television roles, game show host (“Family Feud”), clothing lines, a dating website, a charitable foundation (The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation), a production company, a social media branding company, online Blog 4 - Margaret O’Connor and Jeffrey Osbournehair and wig stores and now, his very own talk show based right here in Chicago! He will be relocating his family – gorgeous wife Marjorie and two kids (ages 15 and 16) – here shortly. Since his kids are home-schooled, he joked that, “They would be shipping a lot of people here.” He joked to NBC’s President and Blog 5 - Richard Dent, Otis Wilson and “Big Cat” Williams with cute friendsGeneral Manager Larry Wert, “There’s gonna be a charge back!” The Hard Rock was packed with friends and fans and he worked the room with a huge smile on his face and seemed especially glad to see his old friend, Abe Thompson, with whom he’d worked with starting out at WGCI. In his comments, he gave Blog 6 - Deborah O. Brown, Crystal Peters, Larry Wert, and Jacinta FisherAbe a shout-out from the stage and joked that Larry Wert went down on one knee to beg his wife to come to Chicago. “I’m blessed to be here and happy to see a lot of my friends from WGCI like Abe Thompson. There’s this Blog 7 - LaRue Martin, Stella Foster (R) and friendthing called fate. I really should be installing spark plugs! I don’t know how all this business works, I just know what my cut is…I just appreciate it all…I’ve developed over the years. I’ve become a real husband, a real father. I’m really just Blog 8 - DuSable’s Carol Adams (R) and frienda general market guy,” said Harvey. When it was recently suggested that his audience was mostly African American, he replied, “You can’t sell three million books
to just black people. Everybody is already in the tent.” And then he Blog 10 - Art Norman and friend Priscilla Strattenintroduced R & B singer/musician/songwriter, Jeffrey Osbourne. “His voice hasn’t changed one bit since I first heard him,” said Harvey. Osbourne enchanted the crowd, and when he sang his highest charting solo hit, “You Should Be Mine (the Woo Woo Song)”, the crowd went wild. He Blog 9 - Crowd scene at Hard Rock Cafébrought people up on stage to sing with him and then said, “Folks, I need a white person to sing the woo woo!” Saran Dunmore pushed Margaret O’Connor onto the stage while partygoers chanted, “Go Margaret, Go!” It was a joyous celebration for, what will most Blog 11 - Laura Baron and Brenda Arelanocertainly, be a big hit for NBC Universal! In a fantastic feature article this month in Ebony Magazine, Harvey shared his “8 Secrets to Make Millions” – 1) Be the best, 2) Have an unbeatable work ethic, 3) Take care of Blog 12 - Steve has the whole world in his hands!your temple, 4) Bounce back from failure, 5) Build on your brand, 6) Surround yourself with the right people, 7) Be a rule breaker, and 8) Give back. It’s clear to see he has the right recipe for success! Blog 14 - Daniella Guzman with Jaime ViteriGuests seen in the crowd included Deborah O. Brown, Dionne Williams, Hermene Hartman, Saran Dunmore, Margaret O’Connor, Jodi Balfour, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Angela and Abe Thompson, Richard Dent, Laura Baron (who will appear on his first show), Stefan Holt, “Big Cat” Blog 13 - Steve with longtime friend Abe ThompsonWilliams, Brenda Arelano, Daniella Guzman, LaRue Martin, Carol Adams, Otis Wilson, Alicia Roman, Marion Brooks, Rob Stafford, Art Norman, Jacinta Fisher, Priscilla Stratten, Stella Foster and so many more! Long may you reign Steve and NBC! (“The Steve Harvey Show” will air on NBC 5 weekdays at 2 p.m. beginning September 4th) I’ll be WATCHING! (To see ALL fab party pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)
 
Blog 1 - Dick Duchossois and Sherrill BodineThe 4th annual Service Club Day at the Races was held at Arlington Park Race Track on Sunday, August 18th. More than 130 guests sported their best fedoras, fascinators and hats to attend this event that raised more than $17,000 for the SC’s Blog 2 - Bob and Nina Mariano with Russ and Tracy Scurtogrant program. The event was held in the Governor’s Room and chaired by Diane Freeman. The room looked gorgeous with tables topped with bottles of Prosecco donated by John Cressman of Worldwide Wines. The centerpieces were overflowing with red Blog 3 - Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul and Ball co-chair Elizabeth Brodskyroses surrounding silver horses by Tom Kehoe Design. The day also included an exciting Kentucky Derby raffle with the winner receiving two Clubhouse tickets to the Derby and a $1,500 travel voucher. The Service Club of Chicago has continually Blog 4 - Sheree and Jim Valukasserved the welfare, civic, educational and cultural needs of Chicago and surrounding communities since 1890. Every single dollar raised goes directly to charity. (Pretty pics by Steve Starr.) And speaking of the Service Club of Chicago, check out my Watch312.com video from their fabulous Day on the Terrace fashion show and luncheon! Lots of fab fashions worn by fab ladies AND gentlemen – congrats!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?height=360&embedCode=F1eXhxNTrsQud8tvvAUUzVf2YIytdfuh&deepLinkEmbedCode=F1eXhxNTrsQud8tvvAUUzVf2YIytdfuh&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=640


Blog 1Leave it to Debi Lilly (brainchild of A Perfect Event) to come up with the idea for a purrrrfect eMag! She designed the first issue while wandering the streets of Paris…nice place for inspiration! This seasonal quarterly e-magazine (that debuted September 1st) is designed to share the latest trends, tips, themes and styles in and around Chicago plus feature the fabulous world of celebrations, Blog 2 - Debi Lilly and her cute kids frolic in Paris!holidays, parties and more! For the style savvy, educated bunch looking for serious visual content, this eMag will provide readers with inspiring solutions to their entertaining needs with constant word of mouth and social media content through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, blogs and more. With insight from industry insiders who include Graham Kostic Blog 3 - My segment! So excited!(Insta.GRAHAM), Amanda Puck (The Foodarazzi and Watch312.com host), Ryan Beshel (Runway Report from 900 N), Ben Newby (Mixologist of the Moment), Melissa Skoog (On Her Plate), Matt Woodburn (Light Up the Night), DJ Megan Taylor (Spinning Now), and moi (Behind the Scenes of Causes We Love)! Even some of Debi’s ultra-chic Parisian friends will be sharing their international views. And with input from Chicago’s celebrations guru Rachel Schwanz, this eMag is bound to explode! So watch your inboxes and check your social media for this cool eMag! 🙂 (Holiday issue coming November 1st!) To see the exquisite debut issue, please click here!
 
Garden of EveMark your calendars for “Garden of Eve,” coming Friday, September 14th to the River East Art Center (located at 435 E. Illinois) beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be co-chaired by Austin Baidas, Amy Crawford, Emily Fry, Meshell NdegeochelloVernita Gray, Pat Ewert, Alma Izquierdo and Liza Martinez. Benefitting the Howard Brown Health Center and its Lesbian Community Care Project (LCCP), the 4th annual signature fundraiser will support women’s health and wellness services and programs for uninsured women. Ted_allen_choppedThe event’s VIP reception will be hosted by Ted Allen, host of Food Network’s “Chopped.” Entertainment will be provided by 10-time Grammy nominee Meshell Ndegeocello whose music includes a variety of influences including funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, R & B, rock and jazz. (For tickets and more info, please click here or call 773.572.5117.)
 
090612 FNO North Bridge FINALThere is so much going on for Fashion’s Night Out on Thursday, September 6th and these are two of my favorites! First up, the Shops at North Bridge (located at 520 N. Michigan Ave.) will feature the ultimate fall fashion challenge beginning at 6 p.m. Judges will decide which local fashionista or blogger will win the prize for best fall looks. Competing stylists include Amy Blog 2 - Celebrity host Ali LarterOlson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi Sheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos, Amanda Wolfson and Dee Brodlo. Judges include Windy City Live’s Jessie Kalin, ULTA Beauty’s Carrie Lannon, NS Mag’s Elaine Doremus, CS Mag’s Katie Schroeder and Lisa Shames, Fashion Group International’s Lisa Ackerman and moi! The after-party will be at Roof at The WIT from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. See you there! My other favorite FNO will be “Fame, Fashion and Flavor” at 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops from 6 Blog 3 - With Eric Himel, Sarah Burrows, Victoria Malkin and Graham Kosticp.m. until 9 p.m. The shops will be transformed into a multi-level event space featuring a flash fashion show styled by Eric Himel, a glam beauty bazaar by Bloomingdale’s and Mario Tricoci, a Gastronomony by Groupon tasting with bites Blog 1from top Chicago restaurants, DJs, Glossed & Found photo opps, in-store parties and so much more! There will also be a VIP Lounge hosted by the stunning Ali Larter. Besides the 900 Shops, this cool event is hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine, McGrath Lexus and Acura of Downtown Chicago!! Can’t wait to parteeeee!!! (To see a more complete list of events, please click here!)
 
OneNight_06_02_smallChicago House is excited to premiere an all new event fundraiser to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to assist families and individuals affected by HIV and AIDS. “ONE NIGHT STAND will be an explosive, multi-sensory dance party wrapped around a live concert,” explained Jeremy Hilborn, Chicago House’s Manager of Special Events. “It’s a full buffet of sights and sounds, built around an experiential concert,” Hilborn continued. For its inaugural year, the new event – inspired by a popular dance recording artist and icon Linda Clifford – will feature her in a custom designed, immersive nightclub environment. From grinding go-go boys to a diva star with a full band to DJ Resized_slacks & shirtlessMathew Harvat offering up the beats, ONE NIGHT STAND will rock a VERY transformed Park West on Saturday, September 15th beginning at 8:00 p.m. Chicago House brought some major players to the table in developing the event in its first year. Keith Elliott (Dance for Life Chicago/Chicago Takes Off) and Tony Savino (Dance for Life Palm Springs) bring more than 20 years of experience in performance based fundraising to create this exciting new addition to the Chicago House event calendar. Tickets to ONE NIGHT STAND start at $35 for balcony seating, and range up to $200. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here or call 773-248-5200 x303.

Blog 1 - The Birthday Boy!Steve Weiss, co-founder of Zacuto – one of the world’s largest film making accessories, sales and rental companies – celebrated his big 5-0 recently with a weekend long celebration in Old Town. Friends and Blog 2 - Birthday peeps—Steve and Isabel Weissfamily flew in from as far away as Australia to honor Steve and his 9-year-old daughter, Isabel, on the occasion of their double birthdays: Steve’s 50th and Isabel’s 9th. The party began at their
historic house Blog 3 - Lucyna Wojtas (aka Mrs. Weiss) surrounded by admirersin Old Town (known as the “Yellow House”) with a cocktail reception. A trolley squeezed its way down our narrow streets to pick up all of the partygoers. After a stop for more friends at the Sutton Place Hotel, we Blog 4 - Christina Wojtas and friendswinded our way down Lake Shore Drive to our final destination, the “Gypsy Spirit” docked in Burnham Harbor. There was more food than anyone could imagine with more drinks than we should’ve been Blog 5 - Cara and Jens Bogehegn and friendsserved but the night couldn’t have been a more perfect celebration for this accomplished man who started his company with partner/friend Jens Bogehegn in 2000. Their company has garnered so many awards, including Blog 6 - Steve and the boat people!numerous Emmys, Silver Telly Awards and Chicago Film Festival honors as well as recently ranking 8th in the top 100 for Video Production and Filmmakers Who Know Social Media and Viral Marketing. Others Blog 7 - Isabel surprised on her 9th BD!on this prestigious list included YouTube, Vimeo, Weinstein & Co., HBO Documentaries and James Cameron. Yikes – pretty great company, Steve! Anyway, it was a perfect summer evening, the kind you dream about all winter long…and as the boat Blog 8 - Tim Cruzfloated over the smooth-as-glass lake, I counted my blessings looking at our magnificent skyline. The trip through the locks was so exciting but, sadly, made me realize how many people should NOT be driving their own boats. And the fireworks, of course, never disappoint. Steve’s glamorous Blog 9 - Entering the lockswife, Lucyna, along with her equally glam sister Christina, presented a whimsical “cake” with Steve’s face on hundreds of cupcakes…her speech was so loving and touching as well. Darling Isabel was dressed like she’d just Blog 10 - Mini-Steve cupcakes!stepped off the pages of Vogue with her stacked bracelets, scarf worn French-style, a jaunty cap and oversized sunglasses. Her beautiful cake was a surprise (and believe me, there’s not much that escapes/surprises Isabel!) but on this night, she was so excited! It was a fabulous family affair filled with love, frivolity, dancing and great friends. We were thrilled and honored to be included. Happy, happy birthday wishes to a special family in Old Town and someone you should know… 🙂
 
460_345_resizeThe Italian Village and the Ferrari Club team up for the 15th annual “Ferrari
s in the Loop” – an event that kicks off Italian Village’s 85 years of serving Chicago. All of the proceeds for this event go directly to the Inspiration Corporation and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Sixty high-performance vehicles, including vintage and newer model Ferraris, will be featured at the only Chicago stop the Club will make this year. The Loop will be closed down on Monroe from Dearborn to Clark Street. During the event, the Italian Village will offer an all-you-can-eat and drink Italian feast for a $30 donation (including beer and wine). To learn more, please visit www.italianvillage-chicago.com. 
 
Frances Renk and SiennaA special congrats to new mom Frances Renk on the birth of her first child – darling daughter Sienna, who weighed in at 9 pounds. (I’m not so sure her svelte mom weighs much more than this!) I can already envision Sienna bejeweled in fabulous designs from Sequin. Love you FR and huge congrats to you and your sweet husband!
 
PR maven Kathleen Henson has the coolest friends! When she casually invited me to lunch at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab Restaurant, I had no idea I would be dining with her Jennifer Boroff, Kathleen Henson, Jane Seymour and Anna Treiber at Joe’slongtime friend, the glam, uber-talented actress Jane Seymour (along with dynamic friends NBC’s Daniella Guzman, Jennifer Baum Boroff, Anna Treiber, Jane’s darling sister Annie and her longtime art representative, Susan Nagy Luks). Jane’s life is full to bursting with art projects/installations, an “Open Heart” jewelry line, a bed linen line, a clothing line and many upcoming film and television roles. Kathleen and Jane have been friends since the mid-90’s when she, Kathleen, helped her host her very first art exhibit in Malibu. Henson Consulting still works closely with Jane and her husband James Keach for their Open Hearts Foundation that recognizes individuals who have overcome adversity to do good and help others. 🙂

Blog 1 - Giuseppe Pochintesta and Tom Strehle at the Byblos, St. TropezTom Strehle, VP of Human Resources at Beam Global Spirits & Wine, is enjoying the wonders of the French Riviera and making me so envious! This is one of my favorite spots in the world and Tom is having a great time staying at boutique hotel Le Mouillage in St. Tropez, taking a helicopter to Nice and Monaco, drinking lots of Domaine Ott, visiting the hot new Coco Beach Club Blog 2 - Local specialty, the tarte Tropezienne, at the Byblos Hoteland enjoying the local specialty, Tropezienne tarts at the Byblos Hotel (one of the best in the world). He is a hard working guy who also gives (a lot) back to local charities…thanks for all you do, Tom, and congrats on your much deserved, jet-setting vaca! (Tom is shown in pic with Byblos Head Concierge Giuseppe Pochintesta…to see more of the St. Tropez experience, click here!)
 
Elana Schulman pitching Eli’s on QVC!Congrats are in order for Elana Schulman who is making waves (and cheesecakes!) for HSN! The famous Eli’s Cheesecake is now available on this popular network! Congrats Schulmans – you’re all so "sweet"!
 
Thanks for checking in this week and I hope your Labor Day weekend was filled with BBQ, friends, love and laughter!
 
Trib eventLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Don’t miss the Chicago Tribune’s “Chicago Forward: Conversations About the Future” discussion about the presidential election with heavy hitters who include Bill Daley (former White House Chief of Staff), U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock (from Peoria), Jim Edgar (former Illinois governor), Christie Hefner (director of the Center for American Progress), Leonard Pitts, Jr. (nationally syndicated columnist) and Jonah Goldberg (nationally syndicated columnist). Bruce Dold will conduct this panel discussion about the Windy City White House 2012! Don’t miss it on September 10th at 6 p.m. at the Field Museum. Tickets are only $15…click here for more info!

1 Comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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!
 
Blog 1I 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 Blog 2 - The One and Onlypublisher/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 Blog 3 - 2012 N’Digo Foundation scholarship recipientsscholarships 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 Blog 4 - KC and Cheryl Pearson-McNeil with Reverend Jesse JacksonBabyface, 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 Blog 5 - The Impressionsprogram 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 Blog 6 - Quinton de’ Alexander with his designs and modelsdreams.” 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, Blog 7 - Michelle Boone proclaims Aretha Day in Chicago“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 Blog 8 - Aretha performs tribute to Whitneyincluded “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 Blog 9 - Hermene does some steppin’ to celebrate the night!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 Blog 10 - Lindsay Rafaykotirelessly 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 Blog 11 - The dramatic Terrace at McCormick Placeoverbooked. 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 Blog 12 - The Wobble!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 Blog 13 - With comedian Jonathan Slocumbmaking 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!) Blog 14 - The Impressions at the After-Party on the Terracebut 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 Blog 15 - Interviewing the Queenyour 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!)

Blog 1 - Ryan and Val cut the Eli’s cheesecake!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 Blog 2 - Marlaine Selip, John Idler (new Prez and GM Ch. 7) and Cindy Patrassomany 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 Blog 3 - Ryan and Ernie Banks toast!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 Blog 4Val 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 Blog 5 - Emerald-Jane Hunter and Ji Suk Yito 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 Blog 6 - Chicagolicious’ AJ Johnson and Niki Robinson with Dionne Williams (center)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, Blog 7 - Diana Palomar and Jess AltieriDebi 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!)

Blog 1 - Kelsey Grammer cuts the cake!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 Blog 2Cheesecake 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.)

Blog 1 - Lucky in love—Hedy and Mort make it official!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 Blog 2 - Hedy in FINE form on her big day!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 Blog 3 - Hedy and Mort dance for joy!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!  🙂

Blog 1 - Highland Park Theater marquee with proposalSpeaking 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 Blog 2 - Laurie and Bill at SpagoLaurie 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!

Blog 1 - Waiting for Ben Folds FiveThe 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, Blog 2 - Serving beer with WCIU’s Aly BocklerMarcus 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!!

MarcoFosterWhiteParty_final big (1)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.)

Blog 1 - The David Rothstein Orchestra has the crowd on their feet!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 Blog 2 - David Rothstein and Goldiebeing 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.)

 

Blog 1 - Sven AsmusAfter almost 17 years in the luxury and exotic automotive industry, handsome Sven Asmus has decided to pursue his passion. On July 11th, Hilton/Asmus Blog 2 - Dennis Manarchy’s “Metal”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!

Sherren LeighCongratulations 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 TCW Magazineof 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.
 
DSC03947Now 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 and city invite 221Chefs & 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.)

L3_Invite_Michael_Jackson“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 Cancer Invite-page-001[1]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.
 
Blog 1 - Fun friends in MichiganI 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 Blog 2 - My favorite new home décor store in Union Pier!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

1P.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 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

June 20, 2012 · 8:16 pm

ALL EYES WERE ON MAMIE WALTON AT THE ILLINOIS EYE-BANK GALA!

…PLUS BETTY WHITE RULED THE NIGHT AT MBC, A NAVY PIER HOTSPOT FOR LOCALS!, GLAM LAUNCH PARTY (WATCH 312 VIDEO!), ZOO-OLOGIE BASH IS BACK, OLD TOWN ART FAIR (HIGHLIGHTS ON WATCH312!), SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Honorees Mamie Walton and Dr. Joel SugarIt’s not often that you feel transported to Britain here in the Windy City but this was the theme and the ambiance for the recent Illinois Eye-Bank Gala honoring Mamie Walton as the 2012 Woman of Vision and Dr. Joel Sugar as the Gift of Sight Honoree. (Joel has Blog 2 - Eyebank Executive Director Diane Hollingsworthbeen the Illinois Eye-Bank’s Medical Director for 25 years.) The party, titled “Annabel’s: Indulge in London’s Veddy Best,” brought out more than 200 guests to the Peninsula on a perfect summer night. This hotel has one of the finest patios in town and when the weather is as flawless as it was on this night, no one wanted to move inside for dinner! Mamie Walton’s British roots made the party’s theme so appropriate for this magnetic and ageless woman. Blog 3 - Glam guests and Mamie fans through and through!With décor by Tom Kehoe, the Grand Ballroom perfectly captured the look and feel of the famed London nightclub, Annabel’s, with purple linens, gold napkins and Blog 4 - Beloved Hazel and Warren Barrchairs and even a signature Annabel’s touch, a circular dance floor. This legendary club was founded in 1963 and named after the late Sir James Goldsmith’s wife, Annabel. It was the first of its kind – a members-only nightclub that catered to an exclusive clientele that included royals such as Blog 5 - Miss Arab USA, Christina Rafida, and Secretary of State Jesse WhitePrincess Anne and the Prince of Wales, President Richard Nixon, Aristotle Onassis and Frank Sinatra. Entertainers who have performed there include Tina Turner, Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross and, most recently, Lady Gaga. On this night, we had our own top-notch entertainment with Mamie herself serenading us in song (“Time Blog 7 - The always darling Tom Segesta and wife RobinAfter Time”) in perfect pitch. As she glided around the dance floor in a glamorous vintage black Chanel cocktail dress, you felt like you were truly a lucky member of an exclusive club, the Mamie Walton Fan Club! Her dress, by the way, was worn 20 years ago to Annabel’s when she and her late Blog 8 - Ken Norgan, John Regas, Bill Zwecker, Warren Barr and Tom Gormanhusband, Julius, were in London. After dining out with friends, the Morales, they hit Annabel’s. He was the Ambassador for Great Britain to Panama at the time. Blog 9 - Tina and Jeff Weller and cute friendsThe Mark Olen Trio performed and Franklin Lamphere sang three songs from the 50’s and 60’s. Master of Ceremonies was the incomparable Bill Zwecker who is a long-time Blog 10 - The Squire, Bunky Cushing!friend of Mamie’s. Eye-Bank Executive Director Diane Hollingsworth announced the Beverly Blettner Gift of Knowledge education fund and acknowledged Amy Wimer. “Beverly looked for one person to carry that torch and it was Amy who Blog 11 - Gayle Anthony, Toni Canada, Heather Farley and Lynn McMahanchaired the event for the first three years.” Dr. Randy Epstein introduced Dr. Sugar and awarded him his honor. Bill introduced last year’s Woman of Vision Blog 12 - Linda and Mark Heisterhonoree Jean Antoniou who proudly presented Mamie with her Woman of Vision Award to wild applause. Guests for the evening included Hazel and Warren Barr, Greg Hyder and Jim Smith, Vonita Reescer, Myra and John Reilly, Tiffani Kim and Brad Griffith, Sherren Blog 13 - Margaret O’Connor and Sherrill BodineLeigh, Tina and Jeff Weller, Ken Norgan, Maria Zec, Mary Ann Rose, Heinz Kern, Lynne Bredfeldt, Ray Drymalski, Dr. David Donnersberger, Margaret O’Connor and Dr. Michael O’Meara, Eileen and Howard Weinberg, David Brandt, Sheryl Dyer, Sean Eshaghy, Toni and Rick Canada, Heather Farley Blog 14 - The one and only Stanley Paul!and Bruce Ingram, Tom Gorman, Linda and Mark Heister, Gregg Zgonena, Cynthia King and Rich Varnes, John Regas, Her Serene Highness Princess Anna Christina Radziwill (whose maternal aunt was Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis), Stanley Paul, Karen and Peter Martino, Megan McKinney, Lynn and John McMahan, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Segesta, Bunky Cushing and Sherrill and John Bodine among many others. More than $80,000 was raised to help restore the sight to over 1,000 people each year throughout Illinois. Congrats to Mamie and Joel on their much deserved honors and to learn more about this worthy organization, please visit www.IllinoisEyeBank.org. (To view more pics, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Chef Heather Terhune and Manolis AlpogianisIt was one of those perfect nights in Chicago that we wait all winter for. Everyone was dressed in their best with smiles from ear to ear. If you live here, you know what I'm talkin' about. And it Blog 2 - The cute Alpogianis boys, Executive Chef George, Dad and Manoliswas on this night that a new, chic soon-to-be hotspot opened on Navy Pier called City Porch. I was proud to co-host the party with owner Manolis Alpogianis of America's Dog fame. He and his family have a long history of restaurant successes and this new spot will be yet another notch on their belts. For opening night, Chef Heather Terhune (Sable) featured some of her Blog 3 - Fabrice Calmels, Charley Jordan, Eddie Howlett, Lauren Dobies and Chuckspecialties. Every month, there will be a celeb
rity Blog 4 - Jim and Bonnie Spurlockchef with Tony Mantuano (Spiaggia) in July and in August, Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven and The Purple Pig) will be featuring his special menu. The menu under Executive Chef George Alpogianis (Manolis' cute brother) and Chef de Cuisine Anthony Riley has a variety of delicious Blog 5 - Alexi Giannoulias and his cute momselections in place under "Big, Small and Sweet Plates." For small plates, mouth-watering dishes like Moroccan buffalo wings, Wagyu beef sliders, Havarti mac & cheese, chicken souvlaki and hand-packed crab cakes are on the menu. Salad plates include a killer Blog 6 - Manolis, friend, Desiree Rogers and Neal Zuckerlobster avocado salad, heirloom tomato salad and chicken chopped salad. Big Plates offers some of the best margherita pizza I've tasted in a long, long time and the sandwich offerings are too extensive to mention! There is also a section for the little ones (whose menus I always covet) as well as fabulous Blog 7 - ICB’s Bill Natale and Myki Romanosweets including Eli's Cheesecake, skillet cookies and chocolate peanut butter Napoleons! Designed by Gretchen Dockendorff (with input Blog 8 - Corri McFadden (2nd from L) with friendsfrom Manolis) this new restaurant offers a chic dining experience looking over Lake Michigan and the skyline. It's charming yet upscale all at the same time. Chef Art Smith had this to say: “What I love about City Porch is the fact that it brings the best of Chicago to a very popular destination place, Navy Pier. Yes, Blog 9 - Amanda St. Augustine and cute friendthere are funnel cakes, corn dogs, etc. but now, there are beautiful artisanal foods prepared by Chicago's very best. Our city has amazing chefs and thanks Blog 10 - Dionne Williams and Lauren Rapisandto Manolis Alpogianis and his family they will introduce this to thousands upon thousands of tourists at Navy Pier, too.” On opening night, bold-faced locals came out to play and party! Hopefully, I will see you on the City Porch soon – the Adirondack chairs arranged for fireworks viewing are genius! Watch for Watch312.com's "Candid Candace Chicago" video coming soon!!!! (To see ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Christina Thomas and Kathleen HensonOn Friday evening, June 8th, hundreds of Chicago’s most fashionable and philanthropic joined together at the Greenhouse Loft (located at 2545 W. Diversey) for Macy’s Glamorama Blog 2 - Part of the Glam 2012 Host Committeekickoff event, the Glam Launch Party! I was so proud to chair this event for the third year benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI). The evening was a nod to the 60’s, coinciding with the 2012 Glamorama theme “British Invasion: The Music Then, The Fashion Now!” and featured the music of Blog 4 - Jeff Conway, Quenten Schumacher, Chuck and Paul IaconoAmerican English (who Blog 3 - Niala Conte, Borris Powell and chic friendwere just voted the top Beatles cover band in the country!) They kept the crowd dancing with rousing renditions of all of the Beatles classics along with a great DJ, Lee Michaels. At this exclusive event, guests mixed and mingled while sipping on cocktails courtesy of SkinnyGirl Cocktails (thanks for the Blog 5 - Paul and Rosanne Huebenerintroduction Tom Strehle!), Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Voga Wines, and enjoying passed appetizers from Food for Thought catering. Sweet treats were courtesy of our new sponsor, Amy DiTomasso of Sugar Blog 6 - The one and only Rosemary FantiChic Designs. Models, dispersed throughout the expansive space, showcased collections from local designers Anna Fong, Borris Powell, Elda de la Rosa and M2f Brand Denims. The view of Chicago from the beautiful landscaped rooftop garden was a highlight and as guests enjoyed Blog 7 - Nicole Townsend (in red), Marco Foster and friendscocktails and hors d’oeuvres al fresco, other supporters were busy having their photos taken by on-site photog, Steve Ewert. Other highlights included a performance from the high-energy hip hop dance Blog 8 - Cute party gueststroop, Hip Hop Connixon, fashion illustrations by beloved Rosemary Fanti and the ever popular (and my favorite!) Action Booth that had lines all night long! Familiar faces spotted at Blog 9 - Fabrice Calmels and Larisa Elizondothe party included RMHC-CNI Chairman of the Board Paul Huebener and chic wife Rosanne, Macy’s Kamal Bosamia, Shops at Northbridge Marketing Manager Erica Strama, Glam Host Committee members Blog 10 - Kamal Bosamia (center) and friendsPaul Iacono, Katie McLenaghan, Lynn McMahan, Quenten Schumacher, Michaela Parrillo, Macy’s Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steven Stryker, Katie Cahnmann, Justin Jacobson, Kerry Shorr, Sally Shorr, Fabrice Calmels, publicist Kathleen Henson, Heather Farley, Stephanie Krol, Julianne Glatz, Joan Colmar, Helen Melchior, Corinne Melchior, Vonita Reescer, Erica Ford’s David Sanchez (R) and model friendsStrama, Eric Himel, Tom Gorman, Dionne Williams, Cece Gonzalez, Melinda Joseph and Michelle Durpetti  among many others! To purchase tickets to the MAIN EVENT, GLAMORAMA, featuring Robin Thicke and Karmin at the Harris Theater, please click here . And to see the fun on Watch312.com’s "Candid Candace Chicago," looky here! (Oh, and check out this gallery for more pics from Steve Starr and moi!)

Blog 1 - Jennifer Graziano, Creator of Mob Wives franchise, Pia Rizza, and Deanna Morales, manager-ceo of Wite Gold management and prThe “Mob Wives Chicago” premier party for cast member Pia Rizza took place June 10th at JBar in The James hotel. Jennifer Graziano, creator of the “Mob Wives” franchise, was Blog 3 - Deanna Morales and Crystal Petersalso there with more than 100 guests. According to the press release, “Pia Rizza is the daughter of Vincent Rizza, a dirty Chicago cop who worked for the Mob. He testified against the Mob and then went into the Witness Protection Program. Pia has struggled all her life to hide from the shame of having a ‘rat’ for a father. It’s been especially difficult to avoid the judgments and Blog 2 - Deanna Morales, Meredith Spiros, Laura Kranz, Pia Rizza, Bella Rizza, Veronica Rubio and Julio Delgadofinger pointing in a town like Chicago. With the success of the original ‘Mob Wives NYC,’ it would only be a natural progression to feature women that were associated with the ‘alleged’ Chicago Outfit.” I haven’t seen it yet but will be on the lookout! Sadly, Lord knows, everywhere you go in the world, the first gesture is of a machine gun when you tell people you’re from Chicago.

Blog 1 - Auxiliary Board President Deborah Barr_ Co-Chairs Melissa Kearney, Frank Favia and Jodi McNallyThe Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoo-ologie Gala was their biggest one yet, with 1,000 guests raising more than $150,000! Hosted by the Auxiliary Board and co-chaired by Frank Favia, Melissa Kearney and Jodi Blog 2 - John Eisel, Stephanie Eisel (Auxiliary Board member), Linda Barham, Peter BrownMcNally, the sold-out event included gourmet food, signature drinks and exclusive after-hours access to Lincoln Park Zoo which is one of the nation’s last remaining free admission zoos in the world. Thanks to décor by Flower Firm, a luxury tent was reminiscent of a South Beach celebration with young, hip Blog 3 - Sarah Grueneberg, Executive Chef of Café Spiaggia and runner up on Bravo's Top Chef TexasChicagoans dancing to the beat of DJ Rock City and enjoying cutting edge cocktails. Nibbles were offered from some of Chicago’s best restaurants including GT Fish & Oyster and Mercadito. Luxury raffle winners took Blog 4 - Hollis Hanover (Auxiliary Board member) and Mark Hanoverhome incredible prizes: a Bulgari handbag, two round trip tickets to Europe courtesy of United Airlines and a custom Lilly Pulitzer bicycle. Seen on the scene were Ryan Chiaverini, emcee Billy Dec, Café Spiaggia Executive Chef Sarah Grueneberg, LPZ President and CEO Kevin Bell, Rockit Ranch’s Arturo Gomez and Akira’s Jon Cotay among many others. (Photos by Jaclyn Simpson Photography.)
 
No%20bullI met Karen Wojcikowski at Gene & Georgetti’s and I think she is someone you should know. She is the founder and president of The Bully Police Squad, an organization she created after receiving numerous cases of reported bullying, many of which have involved death. Karen, a Chicago police officer with 15 years of service, is a life Kid bullycoach and public speaker, speaking to schools, parents, teachers and children on the effects of bullying and educates them in the process. She hopes to establish a national hotline for bullying victims and parents and is in the process of writing her first book, “Stop the Bull.” To learn more about the Bully Police Squad and how you can help, please click here or call their 24-hour toll-free number at 800-914-1873 and don’t worry, they never let any call go unanswered. Great job Karen and congrats! (Karen is in the process of completing her Master’s at Penn State University.) Hello, Chicago Tribune! I have a Remarkable Woman candidate for YOU!
 
Blog 1 - Shannon Waterfield (above L), Lucy Wojtas (below L), Christina Wojtas, Isabel Weiss, Sharon O'BrienThe 63rd Annual Old Town Art Fair was one of the best ones yet! We live in the heart of Old Town and every year, I can’t wait to hear the little hammers hard Blog 2 - Chuck with Tom Leibig and Bob Millsat work outside my door with artists building their booths for one of the largest juried art fairs in the country! With 300 artists Blog 3 - Plaque outside our house for Old Town Garden Walkparticipating this year and more than 50 private gardens open to the public, many for the first time, this was a weekend to remember. There was great festival food from Adobo Grill, Stanley’s Kitchen & Tap, Phil Stefani’s, Caroll’s Corn Crib and more. Music by Brad Cole Music and Check With Lucy made the weekend simply perfect! It was pretty awesome people watching, too! Check out this Watch312.com video and see what I mean! 

Blog 1 - Tom Dreesen, Roe Conn, Larry Wert and Joe AhernThe Museum of Broadcast Communications celebrated its 25th anniversary on June 12th. More than 400 guests came out to see legends of television including Betty Blog 2 - Keith Magee and Betty WhiteWhite, Hugh Downs and John Mahoney at the MBC’s new location at 360 N. State, which also served as its unofficial grand opening. (The official ribbon cutting occurred the following morning.) With 62,000 square feet, this building houses the National Blog 3 - WGN’s Marty WilkeRadio Hall of Fame, sets and costumes from “Bozo’s Circus,” puppets such as Charlie McCarthys, vintage radios and TVs, one of the cameras used in the Kennedy-Nixon debate, a Blog 4 - Brenda Arelano with John Mahoneyformer “Meet the Press” set and a studio dedicated to Paul and Angel Harvey among many other objects of interest. Collections span more than 25,000 TV programs, 5,000 radio shows and 12,000 commercials totalling Blog 5 - Ill. State Treasurer Dan Rutherford and NBC 5’s Carol Marinalmost 100,000 hours of viewing. The evening began with a welcome from founder, president and CEO Bruce Dumont followed by comments from Richard Price (event co-chair and Blog 6 - MBC’s Bruce Dumont and Pat Brickhousechairman and CEO of Mesirow), Pam Cullerton (event co-chair/civic leader) and Cheryl Pearson-McNeil (SVP of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen). Hugh Downs spoke next and recounted his first TV appearance: “It was 67 years ago and my first spot was in Blog 7 - Ruth and Hugh DownsSeptember of 1945. I was asked to do a newscast. The lights began to heat up and by the end of it, sweat was all over my seersucker suit, which I thought was a good thing because it kept me from catching fire.” (He also went on to say that, “The really innovative stuff came out of Blog 8Chicago.”) John Mahoney introduced Betty White as “one of the most talented people in the world.” She quipped, “Boy, have I got YOU fooled!” and went Blog 9 - E. Patrick Johnson, Stephen Lewis, Alonzo Brown, Roderick Hawkinson to say, “I’ve lusted after him for so long and he finally did my show. And it STILL didn’t happen.” (I whispered to Betty that she was the only woman I knew who could cuss like a trooper and still be elegant! Blog 10 - Chuck with Cheryl Pearson-McNeilHer smile was from ear to ear…LOVE that lady!) Lucky guests included Keith Magee (my sweet host), Carol Marin, Dan Rutherford, Tom Dreesen, Larry Wert, Marty Wilke, Joe Ahern, Dean Richards, Terry Hemmert, Rich Koz, Theresa Gutierrez, Lyn McKeaney, Rob Johnson, Brenda Blog 11 - Gail Leahy, Lyn McKeaney and friendArelano, Steve Starr, Kathy Brock, Barb and Roe Conn, Thea Flom, Mancow, Pat Brickhouse, Roderick Hawkins, Melissa Kennedy, Alan Krashesky, Paul Harvey Jr., Toby Eveland, Caroline Cracraft, Stephen Lewis and Alonzo Brown among others. For more info, please visit www.museum.tv. (Pics by Steve Starr and moi…view more here!)
 
That’s all for this week! Hope you enjoyed the Style Network’s second "Chicagolicious" show Monday night – I know I sure did!!! May your flowers not wilt and may the force of summer be with you!!
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P1040498P.S. Click here for a story that will make you go "awwwwwwww!"

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

June 4, 2012 · 12:59 pm

CAMPFIRE BALL SPURS MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD FOR SUPPORTERS AND HOPE FOR KIDS WITH CANCER

…PLUS CAA’S HARRIS THEATRE BLOW-OUT, VIPS GALORE AT BUTTERFLY BALL, RASHIED DAVIS – A CHAMPION FOR KIDS TOO, EMBEYA COMES TO WEST LOOP, A VICTORIAN BALL, CHICAGO’S PERSONAL BRANDS, CHICAGO MISCONCEPTIONS, CHEFS & THE CITY’S KICK-OFF TO PRIDE AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
The Memorial Day weekend came and went before I even knew it. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that it was also my birthday, but I do know I wish it would’ve lasted longer. I want to thank everyone who sent birthday wishes. I feel so lucky to have such wonderful friends – you know who you are!

Blog 1And now, what’s been happening around town? Well, first off, I want to give a shout-out to one of the coolest charity events around, The Campfire Ball. I had never heard of this until I received the press Blog 2 - Creative Co-chairsrelease (and believe me, if I don’t respond to some of your emails, it’s because my inbox is filled with these but I’m not complaining!) and what attracted me to this fundraiser was its description. How many adults wouldn’t like to Blog 3 - Maggie Conlonrelive a part of their childhood, especially the part where you’re camping, eating s’mores over a fire and drinking spiked bug juice!? I was intrigued and did a little further research and after I found out what this event benefitted, I was completely and totally Blog 4 - Kori Chambers guest bartendedhooked. The Campfire Ball supports Children’s Oncology Services and through its One Step Programs, helps send kids with cancer to camp. Their philosophy is “a diagnosis of cancer should not prevent a child from experiencing the Blog 5simple joys of childhood.” Hundreds celebrated this night at Venue One with décor reminiscent of northern Wisconsin. Even the signs pointing to the “lake” and the “cabins” were scribbled on wood. Blog 6And the food! Oh my! Cork Catering served gourmet versions of grilled cheese sandwiches and hot dogs. Sprinkles served mini s’more cupcakes and Theory offered smoked pork sandwiches. The honey, bacon and jalapeno popcorn from Bridgehouse Tavern was out of this world!  Co-chair Jordan (Jordi) Izsak had this to say: “Every year I am more and more impressed with the showing of support Campfire Ball garners. Our guests and donors deserve a round of applause for making such a huge impact on the One Step At A Time programs. I was beside Blog 8myself Saturday night to see a packed house and know that every person there was helping us reach our goal of raising $100,000 and sending 100 kids to camp!” The summer camp hosts nearly 300 children but the beautiful thing about Blog 9Children’s Oncology Services is that they help offset the financial burden of the cost of camp for families that need it. Lynn Rubin, a counselor and cancer survivor describes her experience this way, “I
ve been involved with One Step Blog 10Camp for six years. I’m a camp counselor, a program leader and a cancer survivor. One Step Camp holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a magical place where kids with cancer can just be kids. They can be themselves without judgment and just Blog 11 - The Bachelorette’s Ed Swiderski (L) and cute friendsenjoy life without thinking about being sick. I volunteer at camp to help these kids have the best summer of their lives, but actually, they have helped me so much more. They have taught me about life, strength and happiness. I Blog 12 - Stephanie Krol (R) and friendswill always be a volunteer at One Step Camp. I’m a lifer. Peace. Love. Camp.” During the evening DJ Matt Roan kept the dance floor filled and the wildly popular Digital Photobooth by MVS Studio projected cute guests’ photos on the walls Blog 13throughout the night. Local media celebrities guest bartended and included NBC 5’s Lauren Jiggetts, former Chicago Bear and sports personality Jerry Azumah, FOX’s Kori Chambers, Time Out Chicago’s Marissa Conrad, Jason Goff from Blog 14The SCORE/CBS radio and Ed Swiderski, winner from “The Bachelorette” Season 5. Nine-year-old Maggie Conlon, whose cancer has been in remission for nearly eight years, said, “I loved camp so much that my counselors called my parents Blog 15to ask if I could stay an extra week.” She is already counting down to her next visit. The after party continued at RPM Italian (RJ and Jerrod Melman and Giuliana and Bill Rancic’s new restaurant). And the parting gift for guests? Why, a box of Campfire matches, of course! Congrats to co-chairs Rachel Drescher, Jordi Izsak and Michelle Weiler on a job well done – the event raised more than $114,000! (Photos by Mitchell Canoff and Steve Starr. To learn more about this wonderful charity, please visit www.onestepcamp.org.)
 
Blog 1 - Event Hosts Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra, Deann and Rick BaylessThe 30th anniversary celebration for the Chicago Academy of the Arts featured top chefs and student performances at the Harris Theater on May 10th and attracted more than 530 guests. The night began with a video Blog 2 - Stephen Flach (co-chair), Justin Tranter, Chris Fryson (co-chair)montage of students, past and present, speaking about the CAA and what it meant to them. Emcee Bill Kurtis introduced Head of School Pamela Jordan, who had this to say: “At CAA, we want our students ready for collaborative opportunities Blog 3 - CAA Studentsthat the 21st century will offer. Our plans include an upgraded recording studio, a refurbished science lab, incorporating SKYPE into classrooms and building a state-of-the-art creative lab. We now have a global program, a student Blog 4 - Art and Jen Wirtzcomposed full length opera performed by professional artists, a student directed and produced 90 minute film and the CAA Repertory Dance Company.” Student/alumni performances included musical theater soloist Eleri Ward, soprano Jessica Oliver, and classical pianist Blog 5 - Pamela Jordan (Head of School) and husband Christopher ScottSu Jin Kang. The performances opened and closed with the CAA Repertory Dance Company. Rock band Semi Precious Weapons, featuring front man Justin Tranter, performed a high-energy number that had the crowd on its feet. This group opened for Lady Blog 6 - Randy Duncan and Natalie Rast (CAA faculty)Gaga during her 2009-2011 Monster Ball Tour but Tranter said, “I’ve told more stories about the CAA than Lady Gaga!” Following the performances, guests moved to the Millennium Park Rooftop Terrace where Blog 7 - CAA students Haley Gehrkeand and Isabella FarrellChef Rick Bayless (an event host with wife Deann, Donna LaPietra and Bill Kurtis) had assembled a culinary team who had all been featured on Bravo’s “Top Chef.” It included chefs Sarah Grueneberg, Tony Mantuano, Stephanie Izard, Chris Jones, Richie Farina, Dale Levitski, Amanda Rockman, Heather Terhune and Blog 8 - Rick Bayless introduces the chefsTakashi Yagihashi. Bayless quipped, “You will not see a group of this caliber together in one place, for one night, anywhere else in Chicago!” Stephen Flach and Chris Fryson were the event co-chairs and Barbara Levy Kipper was the civic chair. The event raised more than $460,000 for the organization. Founded by Essie Kupcinet in 1981, The CAA was designated a National School of Distinction and remains the only independent arts high school in Illinois. This year marks the CAA’s 30th anniversary. (Photos by Bob Carl and Jennifer Girard.)
 
Blog 1 - Frances Comer and Stephanie ComerMore than 70 Chicago-area girls ages 6 to 16 strutted their stuff down the catwalk on a mission to help other children suffering from serious illnesses at a benefit for the Comer Children’s Hospital. Development Board members and “Frankie’s on the Park,” a Lincoln Park children’s Blog 2 - On the catwalk!boutique, teamed up to host the second annual Girls Spring Fashion Show & Tea at the Women’s Athletic Club. "Windy City Live" stylist Eric Himel emceed the show with proceeds from the event supporting medical research and advances in patient care at Comer Children’s Hospital. Awwwww…future super models in training! (For more pics, please click here.)

Blog 1 - Prez-CEO Deb Lahey and Peggy NotebaertChicago’s civic and corporate leaders filled the tent for the 14th annual Butterfly Ball benefitting the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Themed “Tour de Nature,” this event celebrated the museum’s popular new exhibition “Bikes! The Green Revolution” and embodied its Blog 2 - Judy Istock, Susan Whiting and Cate Waddellcommitment to be the urban gateway to nature and science. This year’s co-chairs were Rita and John Canning (who also recently co-chaired the Big Shoulders Fund benefit) along with Susan Whiting. Vendors for the ball were chosen for their creative and vibrant commitment to being environmentally responsible with the flowers dotting the event being repurposed in the Woodward Blog 3 - Diana and Steve Ferrara (Museum Board President)Wickham Butterfly Garden. The stunning décor by Event Creative included butterfly images projected throughout the tent and painted Blog 4 - Rita and John Canning (co-chairs)bicycles hanging from every light pole. ABC 7’s Linda Yu served as the charming emcee, even wearing a butterfly pin to prove her commitment. Senior Curator of Urban Ecology Steve Sullivan hosted a Q & A and showcased specimens from the museum’s collection that included a prairie chicken. Sullivan said, “There is an interesting and sad history here with the prairie chicken being very prevalent 100 years ago and now down to a few dozen in Illinois.” Calihan Catering prepared a seasonal menu for Blog 5 - Having fun with the Auxiliary Boardthe black tie crowd with guests meandering throughout the museum following dinner. The Judy Blog 8 - Susan Whiting (co-chair) and Toni PreckwinkleIstock Butterfly Haven was my favorite. The fabulous Lynne Jordan & the Shivers kept the dance floor filled. Besides co-chairs Rita and John Canning and Susan Whiting, other notables seen at the gala included Toni Preckwinkle, Deborah Blog 6 - Anna Pramaggiore and son Jack HarringtonLahey, Gery Chico, Vi and Vince Daley, Sharon Walton and John Burns, Jacky and Michael Ferro (who is remaking the Sun-Times), Diana and Steve Ferrara, Blog 7 - Marc Miller, Sharon Pearson-McNeil and Chris HorsmanFrancee and Vern Broders, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Libby Prakel, Steve Connell, Marc Miller, Chris Horsman and Anne Pramaggiore (with her darling son). On this night, $1.6 million was raised and more than 272,000 people visited the museum over the course of last year. (To view more pics from this event, please click here!)

Rashied Davis and wifeRashied Davis, former wide receiver for the Chicago Bears, had some fabulous moves on the field but he’s proving he’s got what it takes in the world of philanthropy, too! Rashied Davis Charities is hosting its annual charity cocktail event to support and promote literacy among children. “Cocktails for Brighter Tomorrows” will take place June 5th, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Rockit Bar & Grill (22 W. Hubbard St.) with WLS ABC 7 sports reporter/anchor Rafer Weigel emceeing. Several of Davis’ former Rashied's invite phototeammates will be on hand to lend support including Lance Briggs, Brian Urlacher (maybe he’ll bring Jenny!), Earl Bennet and Jerry Azumah. The proceeds raised at this event will benefit the Saturday Place Program, a supplemental educational program for third and fourth grade CPS students who are underperforming. Tickets start at $75. (To purchase tix and for more info, please click here and or more info about Rashied Davis Charities, please click here.)

RVA SaveTheDateOn Wednesday, June 13th, Rape Victims Advocates (RVA) will honor those individuals who have given hope to sexual assault survivors at the 8th Visionary Awards themed Legacy of Hope. This high-energy gala at Salvage One, located at 1840 W. Hubbard, will pay RVA Visionary Awards E-viteposthumous tribute to RVA’s founder, Dr. Natalie Stephens. Tom and Mary Seeberg will be honored with the Dr. Natalie Stephens Visionary Award along with RVA volunteers, past and present. (Seeberg’s daughter Elizabeth, aka “Lizzy,” tragically committed suicide after a sexual assault and the Seebergs have been adamant in their pursuit of truth, justice and accountability on behalf of their daughter.) The RVA has been doing important work in the city for 38 years with 100 volunteer advocates on call 24/7 for 14 Chicagoland hospitals. Val Warner of "Windy City Live" will emcee. A high-end silent and live auction, illustrations by Rosemary Fanti and a raffle will round out the evening. (Tickets are $95. For more info, please visit www.rapevictimsadvocates.org.)

Attila GyulaiCongratulations are in order for the handsome former VP of Operations for the Elysian, Attila Gyulai (pronounced like the month July): He and Executive Chef Thai Dang (formerly the chef at Chef Thai Dangthe Elysian’s Ria) are teaming up to open a new restaurant this summer in the West Loop, at 564 W. Randolph, called Embeya. The cuisine will be “progressive Asian.” We wish them luck and I can’t wait to become a regular!


Stan Mansion partyAnd now for something completely different! Channel your inner Lady Elizabeth and Master James at the Victorian Ball on June 15th at the stunning Stan Mansion. Founder Laura Elvis has outdone herself to create an elegant event with Jen Knoedlproceeds benefitting Chicago Lost and Found and their efforts to raise funds to support artists and art organizations. The red carpet will be hosted by Jen Knoedl (Jen Chicago) and NBC’s Marcus Riley. Guests will enjoy a spectacle of exhibits by local Scott Thompson, a pop-up boutique by Chicago Lost & Found and fashion designers galore! There will be classical presentations Marcus Rileyincluding violins and harps, character mimes, dancing waltzes and opera singing by reigning Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit. Unleash the sassy Victorian with DJ Lego and enjoy cocktails and delectable dishes. This event is produced by handsome Benjamin Cottrell with soon-to-be-seen photos courtesy of Kirsten Miccoli. Generous contributors to the Ball include Shari Duffy, Cera Stan, Ramsey J. Prince and April Padilla with custom looks provided by Anna G. Costumes. Tickets are only $50 for this night of delicious decadence for a great cause – get more info here and here!)

TCW Magazine Brand IssueA special thanks to TCW magazine for including me in their cover story “70 Chicago Personal Brands.” I never thought I would see my name on the TCW Magazine's 70 Chicago Personal Brandssame list as Michael Jordan! (Click here to see the 69 other Chicago Personal Brands but, better yet, check out this cool Chicago-centric magazine and see the whole issue for yourself here!! 

The amazing event production duo of Cece & Melinda has done it again: They had so many hits on their Misconceptions imagerecent idea that you would have to be living on the moon not to have seen it! Titled “Chicago Misconceptions,” this article asks 30 Chicagoans to reveal a misconception about themselves. The list includes fellow Watch312 host Amanda Puck, Marcus Riley, Billy Dec, Corri McFadden, WGN’s Nancy Loo, Catie Keogh, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Sarah Vargo, Kelly Zink, Hope Cece and melinda photo promoBertram, Ryan Beshel, Margaret O’Connor, Kerry and Sally Shorr, Marco Foster and Rachel Schwanz among others! Check it ALL out here! Thanks so much for including me, Cece & Melinda! Their next big event is the annual “50 & Beautiful Fashion Show” at the Drake Hotel on Wednesday, July 18th from 6 to 10 p.m  For more info, please click here!

Chefs & the CityDon’t miss this year’s Chefs & the City’s culinary series event “Kick-Off to Pride” on Sunday, June 10th, at Anteprima Restaurant, located at 5316 N. Clark St. Hosted by Khoa Ho, William Hail, John Piecha, Peter Alving, David Sanchez, Alan Harder and Stewart Smith, this brunch will include a delectable buffet, champagne, martinis and Bloody Marys! What more could you ask for!? Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Michelle at 773.271.9161. (All proceeds benefit Vital Bridges’ services for people living with HIV/AIDS.)
 
Hugh-Hefner-and-Crystal-HarrisIn the “I can’t believe it” file, runaway bride Crystal Harris – aka the girl who dumped Hef at the altar – is moving back in with him at the Mansion. He tweeted on May 31st, “Getting back together with Crystal Harris shouldn't be a big surprise, since I have a history of remaining close to former girlfriends.” And recently, on June 2nd, he tweeted, “It's Mary O'Conner that brought Crystal Harris back. Crystal was miserable & said so. Mary told Crystal to write & tell me, which she did.” So there you have it. No comment.

Manolis AlpogianisCongratulations to handsome restaurateur Manolis Alpogianis on his newest venture at Navy Pier! City Porch, a chic yet comfortable dining spot, is just what the place needs! Enough of the burger joints – finally something sleek with an extensive and delectable menu to match! Plus, I loved the Adirondack chairs out front for viewing the fireworks. This place is sure to be a hit on the dining scene and will even feature guest celeb chefs each month to add their specialties to Watch 312 logothe menu! Congrats, Manolis!

And last but not least, one of my “Candid Candace Chicago” segments on Watch312.com has been submitted for Emmy consideration. In this case, it’s an honor just to be submitted! To see the segment, please click here. 

Love to you and yours and I hope your Memorial Day weekend holiday gave you a shot of adrenaline for the summer ahead!

Glam Launch Party Deadline - ImageLove always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Glamorama and Launch Party InviteP.S. Hope to see you at Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party on Friday, June 8th! American English, a Beatles cover band, will provide top-notch entertainment along with lots of surprises at this hot, new venue Greenhouse Loft, located at 2545 W. Diversey, from 7 to 11 p.m. Check out the Glam Host Committee and come out and join us!!!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

February 23, 2012 · 9:28 pm

RPM ITALIAN OPENING BRINGS OUT CHICAGO’S WHO’S WHO!

…PLUS CHICAGO DESIGNERS AT NY’S EMERGE! SHOW, ZOOLA IS OOH-LA-LA, AUTO SHOW HIGHLIGHTS, WINDY CITY WEST’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY, TAVERNITA OPENS BIG, NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - RPM partners Bill Rancic, RJ, Molly, and Jerrod Melman and Giuliana RancicWhen the Melmans speak, everyone listens…especially when it comes to new restaurants! They are the experts, as the opening of their latest venture, RPM Italian Restaurant, with reality stars Bill and Giuliana Rancic (E! Blog 2 - Bill and Giuliana RancicChannel’s “Fashion Police” and Style Network’s “Giuliana & Bill”) proved on Saturday night, February 18th. After months of planning, this new restaurant, in partnership with acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis, Lettuce Entertain Blog 3 - Bears players Charles Tillman and Matt ToeainaYou Enterprises, the Rancics and restaurateurs RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman, will be the new “IT” spot for the Windy City. The star studded crowd of 500 made your head swivel at every sighting. Seen on the scene Blog 4 - Justin Jacobson and Lindsay Avnerwere Coach Lovie Smith and his beautiful wife MaryAnne, Bears cornerback Charles Tillman and his wife Jackie, Windy City Live's Val Warner, Ryan Chiaverini, Nina Chantelle and Eric Himel, the Sun-Times’ and Fox Chicago’s Bill Zwecker, Ronald McDonald Charities’ Doug Porter, Blog 5 - MaryAnne and Coach Lovie SmithSun-Times columnist Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley, ABC’s Sylvia Perez, former Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias with Tara Flocco, fitness expert Shea Vaughn, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, The Mix’s Kathy Hart, Bears Blog 6 - Interviewing Bill and Giuliana and her cute parentsdefensive tackle Matt Toeaina, Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan, Sonya Jackson, Tim and Mary Smithe, the Landon twins, NBC 5’s Marion Brooks, Stefan Holt and Alicia Roman, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano, Watch312.com’s Blog 7 - Jessica Zweig, Lisa Frame and Kelli ZinkBob and Kim Mills and Lindsay, Erica and Stevie Hoey, Paul Iacono, Cindy Burns, Catie Keogh and Jeff Conway of “24/7,” designer Azeeza Khan, Lisa Frame, NBC's Marcus Riley, artist Jesus Salgueiro, Justin Jacobson, Vincent Blog 8 - Thanking the crowdAnzalone, Karen and Marvin Herman, BOKA
Group's Kevin Boehm, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, Amalie Drury and JC Steinbrunner among so many others. Susanna Negovan commented that if a bomb had dropped on this place this night, Chicago Blog 9 - Designer Azeeza Desai Khan and Jesus Salguierowould have to start over! The sexy 8,000-foot space at 52 W. Illinois (in the old Ben Pao spot) was designed by NYC based Monolayer. Its chic, modern and sophisticated décor is set in tones of black, white and grey and is ideal for dinner or late night. And I can Blog 10 - WCL’s Valerie Warner and Ji Suk Yiguarantee you, the bar scene will be something to behold. Acclaimed bartender Paul McGee (director of cocktail development for Lettuce Entertain You) has designed signature cocktails as well Blog 11 - Brenda Arelano and Nina Chantelleas created an expansive list of wines that include more than 100 American and Italian vintners. The restaurant will also include a six-seat Amaro bar and offer a menu of digestives – true to an authentic Italian dining experience. The Blog 12 - The Melman Familymenu presents modern Italian cuisine with a nod to the classics and will include more than a dozen freshly prepared in-house pastas. A highlight will be Mama DePandi’s Bucatini Pomadoro – a much-loved recipe from Giuliana’s mother! – duck angolotti Blog 13 - Stevie, Erica, and Lindsay Hoey with mom Kim Millswith black mission figs, short rib pappardelle, taleggio and black truffle tortellini, whole wood-grilled Branzino, lobster caprese, wood grilled octopus, gnocchi gorgonzola al forno as well as a selection of prime Blog 14 - Lovebirds Susanna and Tom Negovansteaks, chops and slow-roasted meats. Chef Doug Psaltis brings a wealth of experience to this project having earned three stars from the New York Times and a Michelin star while running the kitchen of NY’s Country restaurant. Psaltis has also worked in Blog 15 - A beautiful crowd!some of the world’s most esteemed restaurants including Alain Duscasse at the Essex House in NY, Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant in Monaco, Le Louis XV, Mix in NY, and Thomas Keller’s French Blog 16 - Maurice Wills and Sonya JacksonLaundry in Napa Valley. Psaltis said, “Our focus throughout the restaurant is on offering great product and handcrafted items. The process is traditional, the spirit is Italian and the feel of the space and the food is Blog 17 - Catie Keogh and Marcus Rileymodern.” Giuliana said, “Bill and I knew we wanted to work with the best so we’re excited to have teamed up with the Melmans and partner with one of the country’s most accomplished chefs. Doug has really done an amazing Blog 18 - Rich Melman greets Mama DePandijob creating our menu. Everything he cooks is delish so it was hard to narrow down our final choices!” Fans and foodies alike can get a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant’s planning process and Blog 19 - Chicago Unplugged’s DC Crenshaw and wife Alaynaopening as the details unfold in Season 5 of the Rancics’ hit Style Network show, “Bill and Giuliana,” premiering Monday, April 2nd at 8 p.m. In the meantime, check out the opening night action below on “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com – buon appetito! And to vote for your favorite “Candid Candace Chicago” celebrity interview, please click here!


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%3D37486%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

Blog 1The Chicago Auto Show closed this Sunday and was another crowd pleaser with more than 8,000 people attending on opening night alone! The 21st First Look for Charity gave the black-tie-mandatory crowd a Blog 2 - Bonnie and Jim Spurlock (R) and friendschance to view more than 1,000 vehicles before the 10-day show opened to the public. Eighteen local non-profits benefited from this night that raised over $1.2 million for charities and included the 100 Club of Chicago, Boys & Girls Blog 3 - With Don Butler, US VP Marketing CadillacClubs, Catholic Charities, The Cradle Foundation and Misericordia. With auto show covering over 1.2 million square feet of space at McCormick Place, this show is NOT high heel friendly but the people at Blog 4 - Emcee Alison RosatiCadillac provided pink slippers and foot massages at their gorgeous booth that also highlighted the Ciel, their dramatic new concept car. Blues Traveler performed while guests meandered through the space and enjoyed many interactive exhibits including a Jeep Wrangler obstacle Blog 5course (one for kiddies, too), a Chevy Volt electric car ride, a playing card table at Scion and a Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 engine experience among others. You could even renew your driver's license at the Secretary of State's booth! Twenty restaurants participated including Fogo de Chao, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Blog 6Andy's Frozen Custard, Devon Seafood, Roy's Restaurant, Real Urban BBQ and David Burke's Primehouse. Cadillac donated two outstanding and much coveted raffle Blog 7 - Cadillac Escalade winner Jill Nelsonprizes: The first prize was won by Jill Nelson of Wheeling who will be driving a 2012 Escalade soon and the second prize, donated by Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, was a Cadillac SRX, won by Homer Glen's Richard Onik. And to make these prizes even more exciting, a year of free gas was included! Blog 8 - A BIG check for Chicagoland charitiesNotables onstage for this giveaway included emcee Alison Rosati, Larry Wert, Steve Foley, Jr. (auto show chairman), Dave Sloan Blog 9 - Elena Samokhina makes a car look good!(general manager) and Paul Brian (director of communications). Since First Look for Charity's inception in 1992, this event has raised more than $34 million for Chicago area non-profits. To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to view “Candid Candace Chicago” video coverage on Watch312.com, please see below!!!)


http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D37531%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12042802.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Blog 1 - Diane Von Furstenberg , Dionne Williams, Andre Leon TalleyDionne Williams has done it again! Her third Emerge! Fashion Runway Show provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work during New York Fashion Week and has grown quicker than anyone Blog 2 - Jay Alexander (America's Next Top Model) and Ashanticould’ve imagined! Fashion legend Andre Leon Talley was honored at the show held on February 14th at the Broad Street Ballroom. He was presented with his award by legendary designer and president of the CFDA, Diane Von Furstenberg. The spectacular program was hosted by actress Tracee Ellis Ross with co-host model Chavis Aaron. More than 500 guests attended and included retail buyers, media, celebrities and fashion influencers. This Blog 3 - Andre Leon Talley and Diane Von Furstenbergseason’s elite group of designers included Elie Kuame (Elie Kuame Couture), Michael Alan Stein (The Michael Alan Stein Collection), Gordana Rasic and Omar Villalobos (GOCA Designs), Terri Stevens (Funkinbeautiful Design), Jahi Fitzgerald (Evoli Faccion) and Barbara Bates (Barbara Bates Designs). For more information on this exciting, must-attend event, please visit www.EmergeFashionNYC.com and to view ALL event pics, please click here!

Blog 1 - Abby Zanarini, Elizabeth Foster, Michael Walsh, Kim Theiss, Mary MacGregor, Susan FlynnThe Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo held its 10th annual ZooLa fundraiser in the stunning residence of Elizabeth Foster and Michael Walsh on Wednesday, February 8th Blog 2 - Crowd shot of live auction– an event that earned over $180,000 to ensure that Lincoln Park Zoo remains free and open to everyone year round. During the cocktail hour, Chicago artist Francine Turk created an Blog 3 - Francine Turkoil-on-canvas original to be auctioned later, while guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres by J & L Catering. The event was co-chaired by Susan Flynn, Mary MacGregor and Kim Theiss. Also in attendance were WB president Abby Blog 4 - Katie Gledhill, Gale GottliebZanarini, Lincoln Park Zoo president Kevin Bell and a host of friends of the zoo. John Walcher of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers led the live auction that included lively bidding for a Chanel package. This unique offering included Chanel Fine Jewelry Planete earrings in white gold, diamonds and South Sea pearls plus a private tour of Coco Chanel’s private apartment in Paris. Other packages included a chance to join "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano at his show during NY Fashion Week as well as a Masters Golf package courtesy of Intersport. (To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

Blog 1 - Brenda Sexton, Chicago Link Productions founderDon’t miss Windy City West celebrating 25 years of Chicagoans in entertainment in LA! This event, produced by Brenda Sexton’s Chicago Link Productions, will feature comedian Tom Dreesen as the emcee at RJ and Jerrod Blog 2 - Tom Ricketts will be honored as “Man of the Year”Melman’s popular LA-based restaurants, M Street Kitchen and Stella Rossa Pizza Bar. On Monday, March 5th, many of the original founders of Windy City West will host a private event for 350 VIP guests where they plan to honor Cubs’ chairman Tom Ricketts. Ricketts will receive the 2012 Blog 3 - Tom Dreesen and Rich MelmanWindy City West “Man of the Year” award recognizing his many contributions to Chicago sports and commerce. The event was founded by Chicago writer/producer Ginny Weissman, Tom Dreesen and Rich Melman 25 years ago as a “culinary camaraderie,” a simple annual get-together for fellow Chicagoans yearning for a “taste of home, and now attracts some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Watch this space for further coverage of this annually exciting event!

Blog 1 - Chef Poli at TavernitaCongrats to darling Chef Ryan Poli on the opening of his new restaurant, Tavernita, at 151 W. Erie! Owned and operated by Mercadito Hospitality, this Blog 2 - Chef Ryan Poli on the NBC Today Showrestaurant features the world-class cuisine of chef/partner Poli and embodies the flavors of Spain and Latin America! Opening night attracted more than 500 fans to this hotspot! Can’t wait to try it – congrats Chef Poli!

HP eSmile Flyer - FinalWow, Chicago is exploding with hot new restaurants and lots of excitement, as you can see! Thanks for letting me bring you to the party! Hope you enjoyed the ride and will be back next week for more Windy City fun!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

P.S. Please check out this eSmiles program benefitting the new Ronald McDonald House! It’s an easy way for them to make $10,000! Just email a note, card or photo everyday from your emails and your message will be posted in the family room for all of the families to enjoy!  For details, please visit www.hpesmiles.com or send your message to RMHChicagoCNI@eprintesmiles.com .

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,