Tag Archives: Erica Strama

December 13, 2012 · 11:15 am

JENNIFER HUDSON & JAMAR ROGERS ROCK THE HOUSE OF BLUES!

…PLUS JHUD/ROGERS WATCH312.COM VIDEO, MEN’S JOURNAL’S “MEN OF THE YEAR,” LOCAL DESIGNERS AND ZZAZZ playCHIC, ART BASEL AND AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW, A SILVER LINING AND MARCO FOSTER, “NAUGHTY OR NICE,” CHEF ARUN AND AMIE HANA HOST A PARTY, COACH LOVIE AND MARYANNE’S NEW ADDITION, JONNY, JOE, LILY AND ELYSABETH HONORED, WCIU’S “YOU & ME IN THE MORNING,” A WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Mich Ave Mag’s Dan Uslan and JP Anderson with Jennifer HudsonMichigan Avenue Magazine celebrated its December holiday issue in grand style with Oscar- and Grammy-winning star Jennifer Hudson along with “The Voice” finalist Jamar Rogers at the House of Blues on Tuesday,
2December 4th. The event, entitled “A Hudson Holiday,” featured a performance by Hudson that blew the doors off the place. I can’t imagine the planning that had to go into an event of this size with two stars of this caliber but I do know the emails were flying as I tried to ensure that my
3Watch312.com cameras could be there to film this momentous occasion. President/publisher Dan Uslan couldn’t have been more helpful and it was exciting to see him collaborate with editor-in-chief JP Anderson. As I
4 - Event sponsor Bob Loquercio with Veronica Zepedawaited on the red carpet with a ton of other newsies, it was cute to see them joking with each other and mock-rehearsing their speeches for later that night. They are very supportive of one another and it’s good to know this beloved magazine is in such good hands. Another highlight on the red carpet were four Joffrey Ballet dancers: Dressed in beautiful tutus,
5 - The Voice’s Jamar Rogers with Dan, JP and friendthey added to the excitement of the evening. One of my cameramen, Alonzo Stallings, was trying to hold his own on the carpet crammed between two other camera people. It did get a little tense since it
6 - Dan Uslan with Jamar Rogersseemed there was more media than there was carpet space but everyone cooperated in the end. Channel 7’s Janet Davies had wisely positioned herself at the start of the carpet to ensure she had first dibs on
7 - Bright Pink’s Lindsay Avner with her COO Kathleen RalstonJennifer and, sure enough, she was able to spend the most time with her before she was ushered along. JKLS PR’s Jill Katz did a terrific job of keeping everyone happy and, at the same time, ensuring that Jennifer felt comfortable with all of the interviews. Jennifer’s supportive sister, Julia,
8 - Handsome guys, Israel Idonije and Jamar Rogerswalked the red carpet with her and you could feel the love and closeness that these two sisters share. Many times, I saw Jennifer defer to her big sister for questions so she could be included in the interviews. And now let’s talk about
9 - Jennifer signs her second cover for Mich Mag!that Weight Watchers program, shall we? Since 2010, Jennifer has kept off the 80 pounds she lost following her pregnancy. She credits WW and her trainer Harley Pasternak for her hot new bod and she
10 - Jamar performs his new single, “High”has NEVER looked better! Wearing a 3.1 Phillip Lim skin tight, sequined short dress with goddess-like flowing hair, she brought gasps from the crowd when she came onstage! But before her appearance, charmer Jamar Rogers had already whipped the crowd into a
11 - The Joffrey Ballet dancers onstage with Dan for his welcomefrenzy singing his hit single “High” that had just dropped on iTunes that day. His inspirational delivery and positive aura filled the room with love and you can bet this Team Cee Lo protégé will be going far! For this invite-only party, Michigan Avenue Magazine requested all guests bring a new unwrapped book or toy that was given to
13 - 24-7’s Jeff Conway in foreground at House of BluesChicago children in need through the Julian D. King Gift Foundation. It was a great idea and SUVs were standing by
14 - Dan introduces two superstars, Israel Idonije and Jamar Rogersto collect them as guests entered. With the Joffrey dancers elegantly posed behind them, Dan and JP welcomed the crowd and offered a toast before Jennifer performed. At the end of this blockbuster evening, the magazine presented a check for $10,000 to Jennifer and Julia. It was an
14 - With Watch312’s Matt Natale, Krista Cook, Alonzo Stallings, Danielle Davis and Erin Clucasunforgettable memory with an entertainer who told me “I don’t do it for the awards, I do it because I love it.” We were thrilled to
15 - With event sponsor, Essentia’s Thomas Dentbe invited into sponsor Thomas Dent’s (Essentia) VIP Lounge where Moet Hennessy specialty cocktails were flowing. Other sponsors for the evening included 3X Ranch, Hillshire Brands, Motorola Mobility Foundation, United Airlines, Bob Loquercio Autogroup and TR Napa Valley among others. To read more about this exciting night and for more pics, please click here!

 

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2 - Men’s Journal “Men of the Year 2012”On Thursday night, December 6th, leading men’s lifestyle magazine, Men’s Journal honored the Chicago Men of the Year at their new 4,575-square-foot Gear Lab
1 - Chris McLaughlin (Men’s Journal Publisher), Matt Smith (honoree), Jesse Will (Men’s Journal Sr. Editor)Pop-Up Shop, located at 520 N. Michigan Ave., that opened just in time for holiday shoppers seeking gift ideas for the men in their lives. Honorees and attendees included some of
3 - Kerry and Sarah Wood with Brittany Fletcher and Gordon BeckhamChicago’s biggest names – Brandon Marshall (Chicago Bears), Scottie Pippen (retired Chicago Bulls superstar), Jeff Garlin (actor/comedian who recently debuted his new show at Steppenwolf
4 - MaryAnne Smith with new parents Matt and Kathleen SmithTheater), Grant Achatz (three-star Michelin chef/owner of Alinea), Doug Psaltis (RPM Italian), Luke Donald (PGA golfer), Kerry Wood (former Chicago Cub), Gordon Beckham (Chicago
5 - Erica Strama and Marcus RileyWhite Sox), Mark Silverman (Big Ten Network president), RJ Melman (Lettuce Entertain You partner), Matt Smith (IMG agent), Stefan Holt (NBC), Jerry Azumah (former
6 - Larsa and Scottie Pippen (honoree)Chicago Bear and entrepreneur), Jerrod Melman (Lettuce Entertain You partner), AJ Johnson (“Chicagolicious” star), Paul McGee (nationally-acclaimed mixologist), Jon Harris (Sara Lee Corporation), Les Coney (Mesirow Financial), Rob Johnson (CBS),
7 - Sarah and Kerry WoodBill Zwecker (FOX/Chicago Sun-Times) and Mark Giangreco (ABC). Each was chosen because they not only embody what makes Chicago a great city, but also what the magazine is all about: “an adventurous spirit, confident sense of style, active lifestyle and desire to live the interesting life.” There supporting the men in their lives were adoring wives Larsa Pippen, Sarah
7 - Honorees Jerrod and RJ Melman, Doug Psaltis, Paul McGeeWood, Diane Donald and Chef Hsing Chen (wife of chef Doug Psaltis), Kathleen Smith, Stacy Johnson, Allie Harris and Morgan Holt, as well as proud moms Martha
8 - Erica Strama, Dan Uslan, Shelly Menaker, Mary SandbergMelman and MaryAnne Smith. A venerable who’s who of Windy City tastemakers also stepped out for the private affair including Erica Strama (Shops at Northbridge),
9 - Jerry Azumah (honoree) and Bianca CamarenaLarry Wert (NBC5), Ryan Baker (CBS2), Catie Keogh (“24/7 Chicago”), Luis Gomez (Chicago Tribune), Marcus Riley (NBCChicago.com), Shelly Menaker (B96), Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Dan Uslan (Michigan Avenue Magazine),
10 - Mark Silverman, Brandon Marshall (honoree) and Mark Neschis (Men’s Journal)Amy Carr (Time Out Chicago), Tarrah Cooper (Mayor’s office) and Laura Schwartz (White House Strategies), among more than 200 others. During the event, Men’s Journal publisher Christopher McLoughlin toasted the honorees and even bantered with Jeff Garlin, who took over the mic and had some fun joking with the
11 - Stefan and Morgan Holt (honoree)crowd, stating he was actually THE leading man of the year in Chicago, which got huge laughs from Pippen, Marshall and other honorees standing behind him. While sipping on Patron cocktails and enjoying signature passed hors d’oeuvres from RPM Italian,
15 - Men’s Journal publisher Chris McLaughlin with Jeff Garlinguests were able to check out the “gear of the year” at the interactive pop-up shop – the only one of its kind in the nation. The Men’s Journal pop-up shop is open through December 23rd, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. (For more pics, please click here!)
 

1 - Moshi Monsters by company toy designer Be ForeLocal designers helped launch Chicago Toy & Game Group Week on November 14th when the runway became a ‘fun-way’ as top models wore one-of-a-kind concept pieces created by some
2 - Tracey DiBuono Tarantino with designer Horacio Nietoof Chicago’s most innovative and respected fashion designers. Elda de la Rosa, Nade Baer, Gibeon Tolbert and Miriam Cecilia were each given a toy or game brand as inspiration to create a fashion forward look from head to toe. These designers gladly accepted the challenge given to them by ZZAZZ
3 - Brenda Starr by Elda de La RosaProductions, the first playCHIC fashion show producer. Led by the always stylish Tracey Tarantino and her team, the designers stepped up their creativity game to accomplish something that has never been done before. The concept of merging the fashion and gaming world was an
_MG_3800exciting one that ZZAZZ was proud to be a part of. This inaugural event hopes to continue in the future thanks to the positive reactions from the designers, toy/game brands, and the audience. Girls play dress up. Women playCHIC. PlayCHIC fashion concepts were created based on these brands: Settlers of Catan®, one of the fastest-selling board games in the U.S.
5 - Annie by Elda de la Rosawith a die-hard cult following of fans including Mark Zuckerberg (founder of Facebook) and Reid Hoffman (co-founder of LinkedIn); Moshi Monsters®, virtual pet monsters that have already been adopted online by over 65 million kids worldwide!; Word Winder® The Game of Winding Words is a new brand of board games, mobile apps, puzzle books and more
6 - Word Winder by Gibeon Tolbertcreated by the world's most syndicated puzzle creator; Annie®, the beloved musical based on the Tribune comic strip, Little Orphan Annie is back on Broadway with an all-new, star-studded production premiering at the famous Palace Theatre in Times Square on November 8th; Brenda Starr, Reporter™, one of the most popular comic strip
7 - Pony Royale by Nade Baercharacters-turned-dolls of all time, and a woman noted for being a pioneering fashionista; and Pony Royale®, the award-winning fashion doll line featuring 12 beautiful princess ponies, that delivers open- ended creative play with interchangeable manes, tails and mix-and-match fashions. Tarantino said,“This is the best of the toy inventors and design fields merging and Chicago was the perfect place to stage it! Bravo, Chicago designers!!! They wowed the toy & game industry in great style!” Only in Chicago, baby! Congrats to Tracey, ZZAZZ and all of our talented local designers!!!
 

1 - Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado issues proclamation in honor of Martin KreloffI know there are a lot of snowbirds from Chicago who either live in or visit Miami on a regular basis so I thought this Art Basel story about an artist you should know might be of interest!
2 - Artist Kreloff and his famous painting “The Scream”Miami's cultural leaders gathered at the JW Marriott Hotel Miami on December 3rd for a tribute to the city's arts pioneers who helped transform the community into a global art
3 - Martin with students from Miami’s New World School of the Artsdestination. “Miami Says ART – The Retrospective” by artist Martin Kreloff attracted more than 100 art lovers to the opening reception, ushering in Art Basel Week. According to
4 - Harvey Burstein (Miami ArtZine), architect Jose Castro and Luis Iglesiasthe Miami Herald's visual arts editor Jane Wooldridge, “Art Week Miami has kicked off as perhaps it always should but never has, with a tribute to the city’s arts-loving pioneers. It was something of an Old Home Week scene
5 - Daniel Perron with photog Iran Issa-Khan and Troy CampbellMonday morning at the JW Marriott Hotel on Brickell Avenue when a few hundred of Miami’s arts pioneers and current cognoscenti turned up for a reprise of Martin
6 - Harvey Burstein with arts patron Carmencita Betancourt-LewisKreloff’s 1976 Miami Says Art project. Kreloff first sprang onto the American art scene in Miami in 1976, when he captured Miami’s arts leaders in a pioneering collective portrait series
7 - Margaria Cano’s & David Vance’s original 1976 portraits at Miami Says Art-2expressing the passion and emotion of the word “ART” for his first museum solo show “MIAMI SAYS ART.” Many of his paintings found their way into the personal collections of some of the
8 - Dennis Edwards (New World School of the Arts Fndtn. Board Chair)nation’s most accomplished celebrities including Cary Grant, Joan Crawford, Ann Miller, Esther Williams and Gloria Vanderbilt. His work is held by the New York Museum of Modern Art and
9 - Martin with Arnold Lehman (Brooklyn Museum Director) as Beth Boone (Miami Light Project) looks ondozens of other prestigious galleries, museums and corporate collections across America. I asked this popular artist what his inspiration is and he said, “My art is inspired by
10 - Martin with renowned arts publicist Charlie CinnamonWarhol, Lichtenstein, Matisse, Disney Studios, Al Hirschfeld and Japanese woodblock prints of the 1800’s; the color of the cities I have lived in…yellows don’t work as well in SF as they do in
11 - Miami arts patrons Frances Sevilla-Sacasa and Swanee DiMare with KreloffMiami or LA but reds glow in SF because of their lavender sky; the people I create portraits for…when I unveil their portrait, and watch them cry, it is a shared moment of bliss. I usually hear ‘you captured my
12 - Mark Levin (producer of Miami Says Art 2), Kreloff and Tim Olsensoul.’ Most of the people I have painted have become my lifelong friends as creating a portrait is such an intimate process for both of us. These are my influences.” City of Miami
13 - Ray Sullivan (Miami Contemporary Dance Co.), George Neary (Miami CVB) and Mary Luft (Tigertail Productions)Mayor Tomas Regalado presented a proclamation, declaring it “Miami Says Art Week.” Guests included Adolfo Henriques (Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council chairman) and
14 - Artists Lynne Gelfman and Barbara FarrelMonty Trainer (executive director and president of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival); Arnold Lehman (director of the Brooklyn Museum); Howard Herring (New World Symphony CEO); John Richard (president/CEO of the Arsht Center); Dr. Carol Damian (director of the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum at
15FIU); and Cathy Leff (Wolfsonian director). Chicagoans visiting this world class art fair included MCA curator Naomi Beckwith, Marilyn and Larry Fields, Eric McKissack, Gary Metzner, Dr. Walter Massey and Watch 305’s Bob “Hatman” Mills.  The exhibition also launched
16 - Ruth Shack, Adolfo Henriques, Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla-Sacasa“Miami Says Art-2,” a new cultural time capsule honoring Miami’s New World School of the Arts’ 25th anniversary. “This is a terrific opportunity for our students,” says Dennis Edwards, Foundation Board Chair for the NWSA. “We
La-piaggia-miami3-loresare honored to be representing the future in this time-capsule honoring Miami's arts leaders.” (Photos courtesy of Hector Gabino.) Love this town, love its art and love its food! We especially love Sunday brunch at La Piaggia! LOL! (Here’s a shout out to owner Robert Pascal and manager Alex Maufroy – hope to see you soon!)

Silver Lining InviteThe A Silver Lining Foundation Auxiliary Board’s 5th Annual Naughty or Nice Holiday Party will be held at Frontier Chicago (located at 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave.) on Thursday, December 13th, from 7 to 10 p.m. The night will include a silent auction (that will include two roundtrip
Ug_naughty_nice_longtickets to anywhere in the U.S. on United Airlines!), door prizes, a live DJ, cocktails and delicious appetizers courtesy of Frontier Chicago. Proceeds will benefit the organization’s “Buy a Mom a Mammogram” program. Tickets are $55 and will be available at the door as well as online here! (For more info about this wonderful organization, please visit www.asilverliningfoundation.org.
 
Another fabulous “Naughty or Nice” party (this seems to be a popular title!) will be hosted by Marco Foster on Friday, December 21st, from 9 to 11 p.m. at The Underground, located at 56 W. Illinois. Tickets are only $20 (also available at the door) and benefit the American Brain Tumor Association. The invite says “wear white if you’ve been nice and red if you’ve been naughty!” LOL! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)


1 - Jovie Calma and Amie HanaFor the first time in Chicago, all aspects of Thai culture united in celebration of National Father’s Day – an important day in Thai culture – on Wednesday, December 5th, at NV Penthouse Lounge. More than 280 guests attended this event with celebrity host Chef Arun, whose
2 - Benjamin Cottrell, Marisa Buccheit, Gloria Santiago, Shannon Ihrkeacclaimed restaurant (Arun’s Thai Restaurant) has been voted the best Thai restaurant in the country. Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit was on hand for hostess duties and renowned photographer Amie Hana (event host with Ladies Night Chicago) took photos of guests in authentic Thai costumes. There
3 - Shari Duffy and Chef Arun Sampanthavivatwas classical Thai dancing, cooking demos from restaurants that included Dharma Garden,
5 - Mark Roscoe, Amie Hana and Shannon IhrkeJitlada Thai House, TAC Quick and Lovely Thai and live performances by PopRockJazz Band, Jovie Calma and DJ Corey Sanford. Guests included Benjamin Cottrell, Laura Silva, Aya
4 - Meiling Jin, Sesamir Yearby, Sophie Williams, Olga Barladym, Beba GeorgievaJackson, Gloria Santiago, Jovie Calma, Shari Duffy, Mark Roscoe, Shannon Ihrke, Joe Paciorek, Sophie Williams, Michael Jewula, Sandy Smith-Doghmi, Meiling Jin, Sesamir Yearby and Dan Hahn among others. (To view more pics from this fun event, please click here!)

 


Baby Jack SmithCongrats (and good news!) is in order for the family of Coach Lovie Smith: MaryAnne and Lovie are Glam-Parents, thanks to son Matt and daughter-in-law Kathleen’s new bundle of joy! Jack Smith was born on 11/29 and is already stealing hearts wherever he goes! Congrats to ALL and welcome to the world, Baby Jack! 


Joe AguileraMore congrats for a beloved friend, Joe Aguilera! We all remember him from his time at the Elysian but now he has a big, brand new job as hotel manager of the Langham Chicago, a 316-room luxury hotel slated to open in the summer of 2013 at 330 N. Wabash Ave. We can’t wait to visit and celebrate this wonderful new addition to Chicago’s hot hotel scene! Congrats Joe and see YOU soon!


1 - LilyHappy 30th anniversary to Lily’s Talent Agency! They joined forces with The Foundation of Artist Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.) and The Drake Hotel for this big celebration that was held in the Palm Court recently. Guests from Chicago’s advertising community, casting
2agencies, models and talent attended this event that raised funds for struggling artists’ scholarships. Sadly, this was the last event covered by our beloved Steve Starr…hope you were able to make it to his celebration on 12/12/12.


1 - Jonny Imerman with Jennifer SuttonFounder of Imerman Angels and cancer survivor Jonny Imerman is receiving another much deserved honor. Produced by James Payton and Icon Productions, “An Evening Honoring Jonny Imerman” will be held on Friday, December 14th, from 7 to
2 - Mike Ditka10 p.m. at the Allerton Hotel’s Tip-Top-Tap Ballroom, located at 701 N. Michigan Ave. Jonny’s non-profit organization matches anyone seeking cancer support with a Mentor Angel. Mentor Angels are cancer survivors (or survivors’ caregivers) who are the same age, gender, and who, most importantly, have experienced the same type of cancer as the person they are matched with to offer walking,
3 - Tip-Top-Tap Ballroomtalking, living proof and inspiration that cancer can be beaten. The event will feature a special program highlighting Jonny’s service to the cancer community, a guest appearance by football legend Mike Ditka,
1hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and live entertainment. Tickets are $50 each ($60 at the door) with all proceeds benefiting Imerman Angels. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)


2 - Holiday gifts at Randolph Street Market!Don’t forget the fabulous Randolph Street Market’s Holiday Market will be at Plumber’s Hall, located at 1340 W. Washington, on Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th. You’ll find a great mix of vintage, antique and modern gift ideas plus FREE gift wrapping! I’ll see you there! (For ticket and more info, please click here!)


With WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow and Exec. Producer Rob MorhaimA big shout out and thank you to WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” for having me back on their fabulous show on December 7th. Co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman, along with executive producer Rob Morhaim, Aly Bockler and Art “Chat Daddy” Sims couldn’t make guests feel more at home! Watch for a brand new set coming soon! I will be returning to the show on 12/28 so I hope you'll tune in for my top NYE party suggestions! And, if you missed my segment, tune in below!

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Candace-Jordan-Gift-Guide-Glossed-FoundHave a great week and I hope to see you here again next week! If you are planning any holiday shopping, please check out some of my ideas on GlossedandFound.com! (Thanks to G&F Creative/Editorial Director Graham Kostic for including me!) Ho Ho Ho!
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 

Casablanca pianoP.S. If you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift, check out Sotheby’s auction house in New York! They will be offering the iconic “Casablanca” piano played by Sam in the Paris flashback scene at the La Belle Aurore café on December 14th. While Sam (actor Dooley Wilson) sings “As Time Goes By,” Rick and Ilsa lean on the piano drinking champagne and outside, Paris prepares for the imminent arrival of the German army. Clinking glasses with Ilsa, Rick utters the now famous line: “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid.” The estimate for this lot
White House Christmas card 12-12-bo on front(#1) is $800K to $1.2 million…that’s a lotta piano! (For more info, click here!)


P.P.S. Last but not least, it was a very “Bo” Christmas for the Obamas this year! Their Christmas card featured their loveable, lucky dog romping in the snow…awwwwww! 🙂

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November 9, 2012 · 10:36 am

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

…PLUS MCGRATH’S GRAND OPENING, CHICAGO LOOP ALLIANCE GALA, COLUMBIAN BALL CELEBRATES OLD AND NEW, TCW MAG’S HALLOWEEN BASH, CHEF ART “TARTS IT UP” FOR ERIC, STEVE STARR’S “FACE OF THE NEWS,” WCIU’S “YOU & ME IN THE MORNING” IS MOVIN’ ON UP, A PERFECT HOLIDAY E-MAG PLUS NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Alderwoman Michelle Smith, Dominic and his grandson Pasquale GianniIt was a great day in Chicago on Saturday, November 3rd when beloved Dominic DiFrisco, a champion of Italian-Americans and a cultural torch bearer, was honored Blog 2 - Nina Mariano, Dominic DiFrisco and Bob Marianowith his own street! More than 60 fans, friends and family congregated at the corner of Astor and Schiller to join Dominic, his wife Carol, daughter and son-in-law Nina and Bob Blog 3 - Jamie Gaballa, Chuck, Whitey Pearson, Tess Malone and John ZajakMariano, and Alderwoman Michelle Smith as she unveiled “Honorary Dominic DiFrisco Way.” The Alderman read Dominic's extensive bio and cited how he's been a bridge builder in Chicago for not only the Blog 4 - Marion and Tony Durpetti with Dominic and his wife CarolItalian-American community but for all ethnic and religious communities. Dominic is president emeritus of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans – an organization founded on the principle Blog 5 - Alderwoman Michelle Smith presents Dominic’s honorsthat Italian-Americans and Americans from all backgrounds should be able to preserve their heritage – while also pursuing the American Dream without prejudice. Dominic spoke Blog 5 - Antonio Romanucci, Dominic and Lou Ragoeloquently about his goal for Chicago to be a beautiful mosaic and not a melting pot. Monsignor Kenneth Velo and Father George Clements were on hand and spoke of Dominic's many social Blog 6 - A happy man!and civic efforts while his grandson Pasquale Gianni brought the crowd to tears with his tribute. The party moved on to Gene & Georgetti’s for a two-hour love fest and Italian feast! Friends on the scene included Marion and Tony Durpetti, Terry “Whitey” Blog 7 - Dominic, Alba LoVerde and Carol DiFriscoPearson, Jamie and Tess Gabala, Mark O’Malley and so many others. It was a fitting day for a man who makes a difference. Love and congrats, Dominic…keep up the GREAT work! (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)
 
Blog 1 - Paul Iacono, Heather Ingram, Nina Mar iano, Toni Canada, Korinna Isselhardt, Kristina McGrathMcGrath Acura of Downtown Chicago’s by-invite-only grand opening on October 24th brought out hundreds of fans and friends to this magnificent dealership, seven years in the making. You could see this 50,000-square-foot Blog 2 - Larry Wert and Mike McGrathspace for miles before you actually arrived thanks to the ginormous rotating Hollywood lights out front! Inside, it was so beautiful that even if it wasn’t a dealership, it could easily double as an event space or grand art gallery; in fact, the first event held there was for the Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails,” which McGrath Blog 3 - Dan Uslan, Rick Canada and Roger FrandsenAcura co-owner Kristina McGrath also co-chaired. During the festivities, speed painter Elliott From of Artbeat Live created an impressionist painting of the dealership that was presented to the family. Co-owner Mike McGrath’s sons, Kevin and Mike Jr., were on hand with their families as well as glam wife Kristina and her equally gorgeous twin sister, Korinna Isselhardt. Hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Blog 4 - Kerry Bowler, Margaret O’Connor, Jennifer Sutton and friendDan Uslan and produced by Platinum Events, the grand opening was planned as a way to thank their loyal customers that have been doing business with the family’s six other dealerships over the course Blog 5 - Marco Foster, Zack and Grace Napolitano, Paul Iaconoof the past 62 years. Key executives from Honda were in attendance as well as McGrath Executive VP of Sales John Mendel and GM of Westmont McGrath Acura Ken Girard. Glen Missner (Missner Group) built the dealership, the first of its kind in the country using the newest designs from Acura and state-of-the-art Blog 6 - NAME, Kerry Bowler, NAME and Justin Jacobsontechnology. Michigan Avenue Magazine president and publisher Dan Uslan paid tribute to the McGraths in a moving speech which highlighted their importance in the community. He said, “Trust takes many forms. Few people can say they unilaterally trust someone. The same person you trust Blog 7 - Paul Iacono and DC Crenshawin business is not necessarily the same one you'd trust with your money, spouse or reputation. But the McGraths are those rare people that you can feel good about trusting in every way. They've created a personal brand for themselves and business that's enviable. Their reward has been loyalty amongst their friends, business partners and customers. Others want Korinna and Kristina with the Landon Twinsto do right by them simply because the McGraths are so genuine.” Located at 1301 N. Elston and situated on the river, the dealership has hundreds of new Acuras, pre-owned and certified vehicles, many of which were artfully displayed on this special night. Guests seen at this gala celebration included Justin Jacobson, Paul Iacono, Margaret O’Connor, Nina Mariano, Kerry Bowler, Jennifer Sutton, Heather Farley Ingram, Toni and Rick Canada, DC Crenshaw, Larry Wert, Marco Foster, Tonya and Adam Stevenson, Grace and Zack Napolitano, Toni and Ed Mallof and Lynn and John McMahan among many others. Congrats to the McGraths and their dedicated employees! When I do the math, I always choose McGrath!

 

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Blog 1 - Rich Gamble, Judie Moore Green, Bill Noonan and Bill BurfeindThe Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation welcomed more than 425 guests, including prominent business and civic leaders, for its Eighth Annual Gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on Friday, October 12th. Blog 2 - Sharon Trudell, Jenna Stricker and Julia SimmonsGuests at the elegant black tie event enjoyed a cocktail reception with live music by Oncore Productions, followed by a lavish dinner catered by Radisson Blu. Special remarks were given by Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) chairman Martin Blog 3 - Martin and Devi SternStern, who welcomed guests and thanked them for continued support of the Foundation’s programs, which include the award-winning Pop-Up Art Loop storefront gallery initiative and annual Art Loop public art commission. The fun continued into the evening as Blog 4 - Michelle and Oren Schumaker with Andrea and Yale Dieckmanguests filled the dance floor and enjoyed live music by Hey Jimmy! The gala co-chairs were Turner Construction Company business development manager Bill Burfeind, Chicago magazine publisher and GM Rich Gamble, Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University chief development officer Judie Moore Green and Blog 5 - Chris Fryson and Stephen FlachMerchandise Mart Properties VP and GM Bill Noonan. Additional distinguished guests at the event included 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, Chicago Department of Blog 6 - Sandor Williams, Rawlin Brown, Angel Perez and Allan ArmstrongTransportation commissioner Gabe Klein, Broadway in Chicago president and CLA vice-chairman Lou Raizin, Choose Chicago VP for cultural tourism and neighborhoods Melissa Cherry, Pressure Washing Systems president and Blog 7 - Nicki Pecori, Alderman Robert Fioretti and Connie Riverafounder Bill Mologousis, and CLA interim executive director Laura Jones. Lead sponsors for the Eighth Annual Gala were Presenting Sponsor Pressure Blog 8 - Amy Tausk, Janel Gould and Vivian NitzbergWashing Systems and Silver Table Patrons BMO Harris Bank, Columbia College Chicago, Gensler, theWit Hotel and Turner Construction Company. The event raised more than $175,000 in support of the Foundation and its Blog 9 - Melissa Cherry and Joy Bivinsambitious efforts to develop and promote artistic, cultural and public events wit
hin the Loop. (And speaking of the Chicago Loop Alliance, huge thanks to Philip Barash (CLA Director of Marketing and Development) for choosing me to record the holiday greetings for its “Lightscape” installations on State Street! Listen for a familiar voice on that great street beginning November 24th ! 🙂 Ho! Ho! Ho! (To view more images, please click here!)
 
 

Blog 1 - Jeffrey and Lisa AroninOn Saturday, October 20th, the Museum of Science and Industry held its 32nd annual Columbian Ball. From the fascination of the famed White City of 1893 to groundbreaking, high-tech exhibits, this year’s ball Blog 2 - Christina and Ron Gidqitzcelebrated the spirit of innovation that has always been within the museum’s walls and part of its rich history. Nearly 900 guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dancing co-chaired by Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin and Christina and Ron Gidwitz. Mayor Rahm Emanuel was also an honorary co-chair of the ball. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the co-chairs and – a special addition this year – by the Anybot QB2, a remote-controlled robot. The décor took guests Blog 3 - Kail and Kwame Raoul, Illinois Senatorback to the Columbian Exposition with lights strung between the museum’s balcony levels and historic images of the museum from the fair projected on Blog 4 - Ellen and James O'Connorthe massive marble walls, giving the rotunda a spectacular glow. An acrobatic artist spun and twirled from a sheet of silk hanging from the ceiling. The museum’s Science Storms exhibit was open throughout the evening for guests to enjoy. In the museum’s Rosenwald Court, novelties from the fair (including two large paintings and a six-foot-tall vase) from the museum’s collection were displayed. A virtual tour took guests Blog 5 - Renee and Lester Crownethrough the fair’s grounds and various buildings. On the adjacent side, technology ruled with current and future innovations featured. Guests interacted with robots (like the Anybot QB2 and NAO) and since Blog 6 - Deb DeHaas and Dave Underwoodspray paint was invented during the fair, guests paid homage to the invention by expressing their creativity on a “digital graffiti” wall. The party then adjourned to a heated tent on the museum’s front lawn (courtesy of Party Time Productions) with event décor by Heffernan Morgan Blog 7 - Vera and Frank ClarkRonsley. Tables were adorned with camellias and white roses with historic images of the Museum projected on white, fabric sculptures. A live auction raised $242K, which included eight exciting packages including a deep sea diving expedition in Hawaii with world-renowned marine engineer, Graham Hawkes. The ball raised more than $2.2 million to support the museum’s vision. The evening ended with entertainment provided by the Steve Biossat Orchestra. For more info about the Museum and upcoming events, please visit www.msichicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl and JB Spector…click here for more pics!)
 

Blog 1 - Grant DePorter and Hannah MichalCan you imagine how much fun a costume party would be if you saw Grant DePorter dressed as Harry Caray, Sherren Leigh as a witch, Corri McFadden as a skeleton, Bob Graham as the Joker, Cindy Burns as Cleopatra, Shari Duffy as a Hooters girl and Blog 2 - Ralph Hughes, Laura Schwartz, Sherren Leigh and Charlie KamPaul Iacono as a mime?! Well, this was exactly the scene for TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Party at the Cultural Center on October 30th. The “Pumpkins on Parade” silent auction was a huge hit with highly creative Blog 3 - Jason Erkes, Amanda Puck, Spiro Tsaparas, Corri McFaddenofferings from some of our town’s VIP’s including Barbara Bates, author Brad Thor, Grant DePorter, artist Rosemary Fanti, Cassandra Gaddo, Greg Hyder, Mellody Hobson, Sherren, RJ Blog 4 - Ashley Hooks and Kyle WilliamsMelman, Corri McFadden, Andrea Metcalf, Roe Conn and Richard Roeper, Chef Devon Quinn, Hedy Ratner, Laura Sage, Tim Smithe, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Mario Tricoci, Rich Varnes, Maria Wynne and moi. (My funkins were courtesy of my uber creative Blog 5 - Andrea Schwartz, Erica Strama, Laura Schwartz and Kathleen Hensongirlfriend, Tissy Eggleston!) Catered by Paramount Events, the evening also included delicious mini white cheddar cheese/fig jam sandwiches, lobster salad on cornbread and seared tuna on a wonton crisps. Blog 6 - Rebecca Michuda, Alexandra Kamischke, Carrie WilliamsComfort food stations included hot dogs, BLT’s and meatloaf sandwiches and the “skull” cake donated by TipsyCake was a crowd favorite. More than 200 guests attended this spooky fundraiser that raised a little over $45,000 for the Today's Chicago Woman Foundation Blog 7 - King Neptune, WGN’s Erin McElroy, Cindy Burns, Spiro Megremis501(c)(3) charity and its 2012 30 For 30 Campaign. TCWF will give grants to 30 area charities that assist women and children in need. (The 30 charities will be featured in the 2012 December issue.) Spooktacular guests included Cece Gonzalez and Melinda Joseph, Kathleen Henson, Carrie and Harry Hightman, Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steven Stryker, Maria Zec, Erica Strama, Ryan Beshel, Jason Erkes, Holly Hughes, Amanda Puck, Rich Varnes, WGN’s Erin McElroy, Bill Shipley and Frank Holland among many others. (Check out more fun pics here!)
 
Blog 1 - Steve Weiss and Lucy WojtasAnd speaking of Halloween, there is nothing like a party in Old Town and, particularly, there is nothing quite like a party at Lucy Wojtas and Steve Weiss’ house! Their home is the talk of the town and it’s decorated inside and outside for Halloween, much Blog 2 - Charley Jordan, Shannon Waterfield, Todd Humes, Alan Naragon, Chuck, John Waterfieldto the delight of their constant parade of trick-or-treaters! For the party, hostess Lucy was dressed as Elvis…complete with a Blog 4 - Dexter, aka Charley Jordanwhite cape, oversized sunglasses, a huge “diamond” ring and, of course, a microphone that never left her hand. She stayed in character for the entire evening and made the night so special for everyone, especially her adoring husband. Her sister, Christina Blog 3 - Cute sisters, Christina and Lucy WojtasWojtas, came dressed as a little devil, my stepson, Charley Jordan, made a mean looking Dexter (complete with bloody face, garden boots and a BIG knife) and John Waterfield was unrecognizable as a six-foot Sasquatch. Seen on this boo-tiful night were author Shirley Baugher and husband Norman, Carolyn Armenetta-Davis, Lucy and Dan Baldwin, Shannon Waterfield, Michael Warnick, Todd Humes, Alan Naragon, Karen Pfendler, David Pfendler and Stefani Turken, Mary O’Neill, Karen Stephenson, Chloe Mae Loop and so many more! Thanks so much to the Weisses for keeping our ‘hood so festive! (Click here to view more pics!)
 
Blog 1 - Kenneth Cole (center) and friendsMore than 600 guests gathered for an inspirational afternoon at Chicago House’s 4th Annual Speaker Series Luncheon at the Chicago Hilton Hotel on November 2nd. In a 30-minute keynote address to the crowd, Kenneth Cole Blog 2 - Rachel Schwanz (2nd from L), Samantha Saifer Berngard (R) and friendsrecounted his unique entry into the fashion world, selling shoes out of a trailer in mid-town Manhattan. His advocacy and trailblazing efforts in the global fight against AIDS are what attracted Chicago House to Blog 3 - Greg Hyder, Tom Kehoe and David Brandthim. VIP guests included ABC’s Sylvia Perez and Linda Yu, Project Runway Season 2 contestant Steven Rosengard, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, Macy’s Media Relations VP Andrea Schwartz, Glossed & Found’s Graham Kostic, Blog 4 - Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz, Lauren Rapisandlocal designers Borris Powell and Horacio Nieto and American Airlines’ Mary Francis Fagan, among many others. Special Events Manager for Chicago House Jeremy Hilborn said, “The 2012 Speaker Series was our most successful yet. Kenneth Cole was the Blog 5perfect addition to the growing list of unique speakers who have lent their voice to further validate Chicago House’s important work. We are proud to have raised such significant funds for our programs, but even more proud to shed light on important issues at an event which hopefully serves as a Blog 6 - J.P. Anderson and Jennifer Suttoncatalyst for discussion and change.”(Chicago House provides permanent, community-based housing, supportive services, and prevention outreach to individuals and families struggling with HIV and AIDS). Guests left with swag bags from Room & Board, featuring sweet treats from Sweet Miss Giving’s, Little Miss Muffin, and Cheshire Cat Confectionary. For more information, visit www.chicagohouse.org. (Photos by Steve Starr…see more here!)
 
INVITATION LARGE NOVEMBER 6 2012You CANNOT MISS beloved photog Steve Starr’s upcoming “Face of the News” celebration on 12/12/12 at the John B. Murphy Auditorium, located at 50 E. Erie! Celebrity photog, author and collector, Steve is celebrating his 45th anniversary of Steve Starr Studios with an elaborate photo exhibition/party of broadcasters, publishers, columnists, writers, journalists, entertainment news reporters and producers. This grand night celebrating the media (and Steve!) will showcase more than 400 framed images and will begin with a VIP “News Hour” reception followed by the opening at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by lovable entertainment reporter Bill Zwecker, the Steve-6night will include tasty bites from local restaurants as well as a few surprises! (A portion of the proceeds will support CPJ – the Committee to Protect Journalists.) For tickets and more info, please visit click here!
 
Blog 1 - Chef Art Smith, Paul, Jesus Salgueiro and Chef Eric LanlardHUGE congrats to beloved author/pastry Chef Eric Lanlard on the publication of his latest book, “Tart It Up”!  Chef Art Smith and partner Jesus Salgueiro feted him recently at a delightful brunch at their house that featured scrambled eggs with white truffles they dug on their Blog 2 - Chef Eric Lanlard (center) with friends and books!recent trip to Tuscany. Other delicious offerings included Benton Ham of Tennessee with biscuits, Art’s homemade cinnamon rolls, Eleven City Diner’s red velvet cake and assorted tarts from Eric’s book. A Perfect Event’s Debi Lilly made it all look, well, perfect! Congrats Eric and we hope to see you back in town soon! (Purchase Eric’s delightful book here and to see ALL the party pics, click here!)
 
With WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne SparrowThank you so much to WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” for having me on a segment recently! I love this show and darling co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow – I don’t have a clue as to how they get up so early, look so good and remain so perky every single day! Thanks also to senior producer Rob Morhaim for including me! (Ratings for this popular show have been steadily climbing and on the day I was there, the show beat out CBS2 News, Fox32 and Mancow on Power! Woot woot! Power to the U!) If you want to see my segment, watch here and make sure to tune in to Channel 26 from 6 to 8 a.m. every weekday!
 
A Perfect E Magazine's Holiday IssueDon’t forget to check out the BEAUTIFUL holiday issue of A Perfect Event’s E-Magazine! Debi Lilly has done it again in her glorious second issue! Love the mag, love the contributors and love, Love, LOVE the images! A visual feast throughout! Congrats to Debi and all involved! (And make sure to turn to page 246 for my little article on Christmas!)
 
Well, that’s the news for this week and I hope you’ve enjoyed it! Please subscribe to Candid Candace – both here, on Facebook and Twitter (if you want!) – and I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful weekend!!!
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com


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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!)

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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!"

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June 13, 2012 · 9:39 am

A FANTASY ISLAND FOR FRIENDS OF PRENTICE GALA

 …PLUS BUNKY’S RL BREAKFAST, GIULIANA AND BILL CELEBRATE AT RPM, KEITH MAGEE’S RSA HONOR, SERVICE CLUB’S MAD HATTER LUNCHEON, MAMIE HONORED AT TIFFANY EYE-BANK KICK-OFF, LISA MADIGAN HOSTS AUTHOR RECEPTION, OLD ST. PAT’S WORLD’S LARGEST BLOCK PARTY, SUMMER LOVIN’ SINGLES PARTY AT MCA, LANGHAM NABS JOE AGUILERA AND SO MUCH MORE!


P1040187With a theme like “Fantasy Island,” it was no surprise that this fun-filled and visual feast attracted more than 800 supporters to the 26th annual Friends of Prentice benefit at Navy Pier recently. Co-chairs Erica Goldman, Chris Newton and Stan Pillman outdid themselves in the planning and event Blog 2 - Co-chair Stan Pillman (center), wife Ginger and frienddécor specialist extraordinaire Derrick Taylor created a fantasy world that included something special around every corner. Beginning with the cocktail reception and silent auction, the Digging for Diamonds raffle was a magnet for guests who dug in a giant sandbox for all sorts of “bling” with tiny golden shovels. The raffle Blog 3 - Trina Gordon McCallister, auctioneer Greg Dellinger and Alex Sabbaggiveaway was a trip for two to Mexico. Additionally, guests could contribute to the Giving Tree, a faux palm tree with leaves that could be pulled off to make donations to fund services at the Prentice Ambulatory Care Center, which Blog 4 - Ross and Suzie Glickman, Paula Fasseas and Dr. Steven Strykerprovides pre- and post-natal care to low-income women. The silent auction had hundreds of items where you could find anything your heart desired including tickets to Lollapalooza (which has been sold out for weeks!), tickets to the Ryder Cup (another sold out Blog 5 - Having fun on Fantasy Island!event), tickets to the Kids’ Choice Awards in L.A., John Oates and Lyle Lovett concert tix, restaurant packages (including dinners at Nellcote, Paris Club, A Tavola and more), a Joffrey Ballet package and getaways to Michigan, London, New Hampshire and Ireland. As guests headed into the Grand Ballroom at Blog 6 - John Rijos, his gorgeous wife (R) and glam friendNavy Pier, event planner Derrick Taylor (whose company, Taylor & Company, is owned by co-chair Erica Goldman) had planned some delicious surprises. First of all, partygoers were lei-ed with orchids before entering into a tropical, elegant beach- Blog 7 - Mike and Alex Jacobson (center) with their proud parentsthemed paradise through a tunnel ending with a faux “waterfall” complete with sounds of the ocean. Tables were adorned with five-foot-tall palm fronds, candles and crystal candelabras much to the delight of guests. I was privileged to participate in the live auction portion of the evening with Mary Gallo (Prentice board member Blog 8 - With Bob and Hedwig Golant, Azeeza Khan and Paul Iaconoand account director for global retail leisure and luxury sales with Starwood Hotels) and star auctioneer, Greg Dellinger, aka G-Man. (If you have any events that require the services of an auctioneer, do yourself a favor: he’s your guy!) The live auction included a Blog 9 - Having fun with the beach gift giveawaysnever-before-offered package at the St. Regis NY with a stay in the Tiffany Suite. There was also an amazing Napa Valley wine lover’s package, an Italian dinner package at Piccolo Sogno and a trip to Mexico at the luxurious St. Regis Resort Punta Mita. I was Blog 10 - Girls just wanna have fun!also honored to present a moving video tribute that featured Alex and Mike Jacobson: They had lost twin boys who were born prematurely but the loving care and support they received at Prentice moved them to join the Board in appreciation. (In October, Alex gave birth to a healthy baby boy.) As the pirates moved into the Blog 11 - With Mary Pat Burns, Sheila O’Grady, friend and Sharyl Mackeydancing crowd with gift bags, the great band Maggie Speaks kept the music pumping. What a great night for charity in Chicago! This event raised $1 million to fund groundbreaking research, clinical care programs and advanced educational opportunities at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Prentice Women’s Hospital. To view ALL pics from this amazing evening, please click here!

Blog 1 - Tim Smithe presents baby rocker to RancicsLast week, Walter E. Smithe and Comcast hosted a finale viewing party for Giuliana and Bill Rancic at RPM Italian restaurant with partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman and acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis. Giuliana and Bill Blog 2 - Kathleen Henson, Luis Gomez and Kelly Zinkwarmly greeted guests taking photos with everyone on the Style Network’s flowery red carpet. Excited fans of their show won tickets and a trip to Chicago for the exclusive party through a sweepstakes on the Style Network. Tim Smithe gifted the Rancics Blog 3 - Alison Rosati, Rancics and Rob Staffordwith a custom Walter E. Smithe rocking chair for their new baby, who will be arriving at the end of the summer. After Tim (a father of six!) offered a few words of advice, Giuliana sat down Blog 4 - Shane Talbott (owner of Talbott Teas) with the Rancicsin the chair and Bill jumped on her lap. Giuliana was overheard saying she hadn’t watched much of the finale episode yet which featured the sold-out FabFest event she hosted with breast cancer advocate and Chicagoan, Lindsay Avner of Bright Pink. (The event Blog 5 - Bill and Giuliana with Larry Wertraised $240,000 for the cause, largely due to Giuliana’s support.) Lindsay and Giuliana were spied excitedly talking about her upcoming baby shower in L.A. The reality duo hinted to another season of “Giuliana and Bill” on Style Blog 6 - With Bill and Giuliana, the IT couple!and joked they were negotiating the baby’s contract. Spotted at the party were Tim Smithe, Mary Astor Smithe, Kathleen Henson, Shane Talbott, Lindsay Avner, Ryan Chiaverini, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Dori Wilson, Tarrah Cooper, Richard Roeper, Erica Strama, Kelly Zink, Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal (co-owners of Luxury Garage Sale), Eric Ferguson (from 101.9 The Mix) and Luis Gomez among many others. (Photos by Jeff Schear and Anjali Pint…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Dusty Stemer (center), chair Sherry Lea Holson (R), and friendThe annual Mad Hatter Luncheon benefitting the Service Club of Chicago filled the elegant Chicago Club on Van Buren with 260 ladies sporting all varieties of chapeaux! Chaired for the second Blog 2 - Mamie Walton, Hazel Barr and Lynn McMahanyear by SC member Sherry Lea Holson, this event also featured private hat collections by renowned designer Raymond Hudd which were on loan from collectors Mary Robak, Iris Sholder and Eia Radosavljevic. While the ladies sipped Blog 3 - Monika Dixon, Julianne Glatz and Kathy O’Malley Picconecocktails and browsed the collection, a panel of judges that included Bill Zwecker, Robin Robinson and Elizabeth Hamel selected winners in various categories. The Most Original hat award went to Blog 4 - Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Sheryl DyerTammy Beeler; the Most Fashionable was worn by Sarena Weil; Best Spring Ensemble was won by Rosa Guidarelli; the Best Fascinator was awarded to Jessica Priego and the Mad Hatter’s Choice was awarded to Hazel Barr. The winners won beautiful hats Blog 5 - Elizabeth Brodsky and Lisa Krausdonated by beloved milliner Loreta Corsetti, Laura Whitlock Millinery, Carlucci Millinery; Jenny Pfanenstiel of Former Millinery and, last but least, Nicole Betti of Gold Coast Couture. SC Prez Blog 7 - Karen Peters and Sally Jo MorrisVonita Reescer welcomed the guests and introduced speaker Jenny Pfanenstiel who delighted the ladies with a lecture on “The Hat Life of Raymond Hudd.” During the presentation, models from Zzazz Productions (Tracy Tarantino) walked throughout the venue wearing the hats Blog 6 - Anne Wallace, Sherren Leigh and Tiffani Kimon display. Each guest received a note holder and pen set and the floral
basket centerpieces were donated and created by Arturo from Lord & Mary Florist of Lake Forest. (Photos by John Reilly Studios…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Cornelia Guest, host Bunky Cushing and Sherrill BodineI’ve never been to RL Restaurant at such an early hour as I did recently for Bunky Cushing’s fourth annual “Early Birds & Bookworms” breakfast but it was sure worth it! The room was packed with Blog 2 - Bill Zwecker, Linda Heister and Stanley Paulbold-faced names waiting to see and hear guest speaker Cornelia Guest. Daughter of fashion icon C.Z. Guest and Winston Frederick Churchill Guest, Cornelia is a polo champion, handbag designer, baker and heir to the Phipps steel fortune. Blog 3 - Dusty Stemer, Lynn McMahan, Kristina McGrath and Toni CanadaHer father was a cousin of Winston Churchill. In 1982 she was named “Debutante of the Year” and “Deb of the Decade” in 1986. Her mother was 1937’s “Deb of the Year” and also the guest Blog 4 - Lynda Silverman, Leslie Zentner, Myra Reilly and Sherren Leighspeaker at Bunky’s first hat luncheon 15 years ago! Besides her remarkable family history, she has made a name for herself in her own right: She is the author of “The Debutante’s Guide to Life” and, on this day, was signing her latest book, Blog 5 - Zarada Gowenlock and Mamie Walton“Cornelia Guest’s Simple Pleasures.” From childhood, Cornelia had an aversion to eating animal products due to her love for all creatures great and small. When her mother became ill, her research steered her toward a cruelty-free diet. In her latest book, she reveals secrets Blog 6 - Melissa Babcock and Kerry Kennedy Mudd with a cute friendshe learned from her parents’ privileged lifestyles as well as her favorite, simple recipes. Her tips on entertaining take the stress out of any meal and, as she laughingly stated during her talk she “is far from a master chef.” The book is organized by seasons with contributions from her favorite chefs, doctors, a veterinarian and other health experts. She charmed the crowd with her self-effacing banter and blonde, Palm Beach good looks and Blog 7 - Marcia Buchanan, Sarena Weil and Dusty Stemerwas on her way to Bloomingdale’s to promote her cruelty-free (made of PVC) and already-popular Hazel Barr and Lori Danielsnew handbag line (under $300) which she launched a year ago. Seen in the crowd were Bill Zwecker, Tom Gorman, Zarada Gowenlock, Hazel Barr, Cornelia’s handsome husband and doggie, Toni Canada, Sherren Leigh, Nina Mariano, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Lynda Silverman, Myra Reilly Dr. Stacie McClane and Mary Lasky(sporting a short new ‘do she cut herself!), Stanley Paul, Lori Daniels, Dusty Stemer (whose cute son, Zac, is working for the Sun-Times now), Mary Lasky, Lynn McMahan, Sarena Weil (carrying a croc Birken similar to the one sawed in half on Dina Eastwood’s reality show “Mrs. Eastwood & Co.”), Blog 8 - Sean Eshaghy (left) and cute friendsDr. Stacie McClane and more. Long may you reign, Cornelia and Bunky! “Early Birds & Bookworms” benefitted the Jane Addams Senior Caucus and was completely underwritten by the Gibson Group…awwwwww, so nice! Even nicer: The breakfast raised more than $20,000 for the Senior Caucus! (Click here for more fun pics.)

Joe Aguilera 54I just can’t wait for the new Langham Hotel to open in Chicago! Slated to open in 2013, it will be a 316-room luxury hotel in one of the city’s most famous downtown riverfront landmarks – a Mies van dere Rohe-designed building at 330 N. Wabash Ave. But the most exciting part of this news is that long time Elysian VP, Joe Aguilera, will be its Director of Sales and Marketing! I adore Joe, as those who know him do, and know he will be a fabulous addition! Currently, 29 member hotels are open or in the pipeline across four continents; to find out where and more info, please visit www.langhamhospitalitygoup.com. I will see YOU soon, Joe, at this sure-to-be elegant spot!

Keith Magee—RSA FellowAnd more kudos are in order for another beloved Chicagoan Keith Magee who is the executive officer of the much-anticipated National Public Housing Museum. On June 7th, he was named as a Fellow to the Royal Society of the Arts of the United Kingdom. “RSA Fellows inspire innovative thinking, enable positive change and support each other to create an enlightened space to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.” – this describes Keith to a T, as he wears his desire to make the world a better place on his sleeve. “I'm just attempting to do what I'm required – as my grandfather has said – for as long as I can remember: ‘You have to pay your rent for taking Blog 2 - Keith Magee speaking at NPHM benefit (pic by Brian Powers)up space on earth.’ And, the resounding message of my father (now deceased), ‘Your wealth will never be determined by what you have in the bank. It will be based on the deposit you made for the next generation.’ So, really, I'm just filling the requirements. :-)” I look forward to seeing and hearing a LOT more about this remarkable man.

Linda O'KeefeIt’s with a heavy heart that I’m announcing the move by Common Threads’ Linda Novick O’Keefe to Austin, Texas. Her husband, Nick, was given an offer he couldn’t refuse from the state of Texas, so of course, the family will follow. However, she will be back every month to monitor her beloved Common Threads, where she will continue to serve as the organization’s executive director. With the world living on computers, we can all do business any
where we like and with Common Threads opening up new facilities across the country, Linda will be smack dab in the middle! Common Threads co-founder Chef Art Smith said, “I think Austin is a very exciting young community where many opportunities exist that could help us grow even more.” I love you LNO and wish you and your beyond-adorable family all the best! See you soon!

BW2logo“Bridal Wave” Season 2 is looking for brides-to-be for the hottest, live online show produced by Kenmore Studios! Audition for a chance to win a $10,000 Kenmore Dream Kitchen by clicking here! “Bringing the wisdom of the world to brides-to-be everywhere on July 13th!”

Blog 1 - Stanley Paul and MamieThe Kick-Off for the upcoming Illinois Eye-Bank Gala (set for Thursday, June 14th) was recently hosted at Tiffany’s by VP Cathy Elward and Group Director Liza Zito along with Peter Latz, the Chairman of the Blog 2 - Suzanne LeMignot, Larisa Kronfeld, Sherrill BodineIllinois Eye-Bank Board. Supporters came out to congratulate Mamie Walton, this year’s Woman of Vision, and Dr. Joel Sugar, the Gift of Sight honoree. Always elegantly attired, on this night Mamie was wearing a simple black Blog 3 - Liza Zito and Hazel Barrdress which highlighted her Tiffany Strawberry pin by Jean Schlumberger on her shoulder. Accompanied by long-time friend Stanley Paul, she greeted guests with that charming British accent and winning smile. Liza Zito welcomed the crowd and Diane Hollingsworth, Executive Blog 4 - Leslie and Bob ZentnerDirector of the IEB, thanked Mamie for her support and presented her with a pair of Tiffany cat-eye shaped sunglasses. The June 14th soiree at the Peninsula, “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” will be emceed by Bill Zwecker. Guests will be transported across the pond to the famed London nightclub, Annabel’s – the exclusive Blog 5 - Mark Roscoe and Kimberly Palmisanomember-only club catering to royalty, celebs and an elite clientele. Guests seen at the Kick-Off party included Myra and John Reilly, Hazel and Warren Barr, Tiffani Kim and Brad Ingram, Dr. David Donnesberger and Claire Kenneally, Rich Varnes and Cynthia King, Tom Segesta, Amy Wimer and Ed Wlodarczyk, Ken Norgan, Charles Hocevar, Suzanne LeMignot, Sherrill Bodine, Vonita Reescer, Larisa Kronfeld, Megan McKinney, John Regas, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern and Helen and Ralph Applegate. For tickets and more info to “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” click here and to view more images from this event, view this gallery!

Blog 1 - Crowd scene at WLBP 2011Don’t miss Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party coming on June 29th and 30th! Headliner is Ben Folds Five with Life House also performing! The WLBP is a Chicago summer tradition supporting Old St. Pat’s many missions including Horizons for Youth, Career Transitions Center of Blog 2 - Having fun at WLBP 2011Chicago and Global Alliance for Africa to name a few. Chicago celebs will be bartending and the food will be awesome! Come out and say hi- to Natalie Martinez, Dean Richards, Ravi Baichwal, Andrea Metcalf, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson, Stefan Holt, Anthony Ponce, Rob Stafford, Marcus Riley, Borris Powell, moi aussi, and many others! For more info, please check out my PSA below!! 

Randolph St. Market AdAmerica’s oldest and liveliest urban antiques market, the Randolph Street Market, will be returning to 1340 W. Randolph on Saturday and Sunday, June 23rd and 24th with more than 250 vendors! There will be plenty of art, fashion, antiques, vintage treasures, decorator finds, food, drinks, music and FUN! Come out and see for yourself! I can’t wait to see what jewelry dealer Ira Scheck brings this time!

Chefs-kick-off-inviteOn Wednesday, June 13th, Vital Bridges is hosting a kick-off party at Studio Paris for their annual Chefs & the City fundraising event. This year, CATC will be held on July 27th at the Ritz-Carlton featuring delicious bites from the city’s best chefs including Ryan Pitts (RL Restaurant), Ryan Poli (Tavernita), Doug Psaltz (RPM Italian), Moosa Reaume (Pump Room) and more! For tickets and more info, please click here!

Summer Lovin' InviteThe Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Chicago magazine will present the 12th annual Summer Lovin’ event on Friday, June 15th, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 7 to10:30 p.m. Auxiliary Board President Laura Beres said, “Our sponsors and the magazine’s featured singles provide Chicago’s young professionals with an unforgettable evening of food, drinks and fun!” NBC 5’s Stefan Holt and Cheryl Scott will be the emcees and Watch312 (Candid Candace Chicago) will be there to cover all the fun! For tickets ($85) and more info, please click here.
 
Wags to Wishes Invite ImageWags to Wishes’ inaugural dinner and auction benefit will be held on Saturday, June 16th, at the Meadows Club, located at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows, Ill. from 6 to10 p.m. This event will benefit Young at Heart Pet Rescue, an organization dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of senior dogs and cats. As the only rescue dedicated exclusively to older animals, they have provided “happily ever afters” for close to 500 senior dogs and cats that would’ve otherwise been euthanized in traditional shelters. For tickets ($65) and more info, please click here!
 
Jodee Blanco and Lisa MadiganCongrats to Chicago author Jodee Blanco, on her latest and very timely book, “Please Stop Laughing at Me.” This book tells her compelling personal story about being bullied as a child. Attorney General Lisa Madigan interviewed Jodee and outlined initiatives taken to counter cyber bullying at Studio Paris at The Paris Club with more than 200 guests in attendance. To order Jodee’s book, please click here.  

Anita and Ken BrownCongrats to my long-time friends from across the pond, Anita and Ken Brown, on their 33rd wedding anniversary! We’ve traveled a lot together and these two lovebirds never age. They have only grown more in love with each other over the years! We love and miss you guys – congrats on your anniversary!

Glamorama-save-the-date-Aug-10Well, this is it for now! Hope your summer is off to a roaring start! Stay tuned for Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party news and more Watch312 videos coming soon! Mark your calendars for the main event on August 10th at the Harris Theatre with Robin Thicke and Karmin benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana! (For more info and tix, please click here.)
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Chicagolicious promoP.S. I was so thrilled to see the premiere of the Style Network’s newest reality show, “Chicagolicious,” in its glorious debut Monday night! I was even more thrilled to find out that my blog and I played such a big role! The show revolved around darling With Howard Godfrey for premiere of Chicagolicioussalon owner AJ Johnson and his cute team trying to find a way to be included on this website! I’ve gotten so many Twitter requests that I can’t believe it and the hits on my blog the following morning were amazing! The power of television – WOWZA! Here’s what AJ had to say about my blog on the show: “Candace Jordan’s blog is The Style Networkthe most important society blog in the country. We have to be mentioned on it if we want to be nationally recognized. If we can get on Candid Candace, we will have lines wrapped around the block for the salon!” Oh, AJ and “Chicagolicious,” how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Thanks SO much for including me and Candid Candace in such big way! Love you, love your show, love that adorable cast! Good luck!

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April 18, 2012 · 1:56 pm

URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL” GALA SPOTLIGHTS ITS POETS AND DANCERS

…PLUS SWAROVSKI PRESENTS “THE WALK,” STYLE NETWORK’S “CHICAGOLICIOUS,” THE DINNER PARTY, BOYS & GIRL’S CLUBS’ YOUTH OF THE YEAR, HEF'S BD, 300 FEET OF JOFFREY DANCER FABRICE CALMELS (NOT ENOUGH!), THE RED DRESS PARTY, A SMALL-DOG-ONLY PARTY AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Linda Johnson Rice (L) and friend with co-chairs Cheryl and Eric McKissackUrban Gateways’ artists were the highlights of the evening for its annual Art for All Gala held at Venue One. Two hundred fifty guests attended this benefit to introduce the arts into Blog 2 - Tarrah Cooper, Mayor’s Press Secretary, with her cute momthe lives of children in Chicago. Co-chair Eric McKissack said, “Cheryl [McKissack] and I were very pleased to co-chair this event with Nick and Susan Pritzker. Urban Gateways is near and dear to all of us. The work of UG as a pioneer and leader in arts education helps to develop the Blog 3 - Catherine Kirk, Tyronne Stoudemire, Abe Thompson, Valerie Stoudemirecreative potential of more than 100,000 young people a year in Chicago.” The night began with a cocktail reception and silent auction that featured the artwork of many talented UG artists. There were original works Blog 4 - Elements Contemporary Balletby Karolina Gnatowski, Jeff Maldonado and Kate Walsh. James Jankowiak donated an abstract acrylic on canvas while Nicole Beck created a steel maquette of one of her public sculptures Blog 5 - UG teaching artist Michael Riendeauat Dubuque’s Grand River Center. (Some other auction items included an “instant memory wine cellar” with personal notes affixed to each bottle that sold for $4,500.) After the guests had perused the auction offerings, emcee and president and CEO of the Better Government Association Andy Blog 6 - With UG Executive Director Eric Delli Bovi and emcee Andy ShawShaw took to the stage and stated, “Urban Gateways provides art experiences that the public schools can’t offer. In a perfect world, this would all be done there. They’re not doing what must be done. They’re not stepping up.” Andy is Blog 6not afraid to speak his mind and always tells it like it is – so refreshing! And then the highlight of the evening: the live performances by Urban Gateways touring artists! First up was Elements Contemporary Ballet, Blog 7 - Poet Lamar Jordanfounded in 2005 by artistic director Mike Gosney. These elegant dancers combined the beauty of classical technique with the intensity of innovative contemporary dance. Young Chicago Authors’ Louder Than a Bomb Blog 8 - Li sa Newman and Angela Thompsonpoets held the audience in the palm of their hands as they recited their views of the world. Malcolm Lundy’s poem, “Letter to My Unborn Daughter,” was a touching and cautionary tale about what he wants his future daughter to know about life and men especially. “You are preordained to despise your origins and me.” When speaking of future suitors, he said they “inhale virginities and Blog 8 - Poet Malcolm Lundyexhale excuses.” He ended the poem with “my princess, never lose your fairytale endings. I pinky promise to be a great father.” Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. A female poet with the single name of George delivered a powerful poem Blog 10 - Chelsea and Jim Smithcalled “My Father’s Promises.” Lamar Jordan’s “Be Step” poem spoke about the joys of this dance form calling it “the choreography of kings.” If you’re not familiar with Louder Than a Bomb, Jon Siskel created a fantastic film by the same name that I highly recommend. The premise surrounds the competition. Every year, more than 600 teenagers from 60-plus Chicago Blog 11 - Emcee Andy Shawarea schools gather for the world’s largest youth poetry slam, a competition known as Louder Than a Bomb. Founded in 2001, Louder Than a Bomb is the only event of its kind in the country – a youth poetry slam built around teams. Blog 12 - FootworKINGz charming the audienceRather than emphasize individual poets and performances, its structure demands that kids work collaboratively with their peers – presenting, critiquing and rewriting their pieces. To succeed, teams have to create an Blog 13environment of mutual trust and support. For many kids, being a part of such an environment in an academic context is life-changing. The movie is spellbinding just like these young poets were Blog 14on this night. The next act, a nationally recognized dance crew founded by UG teaching artist Leida “Lady Sol” Villegas, brought the crowd to its feet. FootworKINGz performed a high-energy dance number that defied gravity. They have appeared on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” and MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew.” You Blog 15really have to see them to believe it. Guests seen mixing and mingling included Linda Johnson Rice, Abe and Angela Thompson, Valerie and Tyronne Stoudemire, Theaster Gates, Dawoud Bey, Stephanie and Gary Cole, Michelle Askew, Blog 16 - FootworKINGz dance memberTarrah Cooper, Kay and Jim Mabie, Ruth Horwich and Judith Venturino. Urban Gateways is one of the largest and most comprehensive arts education organizations in the country and a recipient of the White House “Medal of Blog 17 - Venue sceneArts.” For more than 50 years, UG has brought the arts into the lives of millions of children in Chicago. They provide high-quality, customized programming before, during and after school to more than 80,000 Chicago-area youth each year in the areas of literary, media, performing and visual arts. For more info, please visit www.urbangateways.org. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Blog 1 - Swarovski’s flagship store on Michigan AveSwarovski recently hosted a cocktail reception at its Michigan Avenue flagship boutique to view the unique window installation created by grad students of the Blog 2 - Walter and Shirley Massey with Nick CaveSchool of the Art Institute of Chicago mentored by Nick Cave, professor and chair of SAIC's fashion design department. Swarovski donated the window space and jewelry for the installation as part of its Presenting Sponsorship for Fashion Blog 3 - Swarovski store manager, Nicole Green and Cindy Mancillas2012 and The Walk 2012, which will be held on Thursday, April 19th. The collaborative design was created by KC Winter, Kristina Sparks, Joe Leamanczyk, Justin LeBlanc and Anna Kim and inspired by Swarovski's spring Blog 4 - Debbie Jagel and friendjewelry collection. One hundred thirty guests attended this reception including Chicago Street Style’s Amy Creyer, Emma Arnold, Kelly Zink, Amanda Wolfson, Erica Strama, Ellen Sandor and Shirley and SAIC President Walter Massey. At The Walk 2012, the presentation of the SAIC Legend of Fashion Award will be presented to designer Cynthia Rowley and her husband, Bill Powers, by SAIC adjunct faculty member/critic Jerry Saltz. Blog 5 - Roger Price, Tommy Walton and Don YoshidaRowley said, “As an alumna of SAIC, this award has a very special meaning to me and Bill. We both believe that a marriage between fashion and art is something to strive for in the 21st century, and we hope that Blog 6 - Amy Creyer and Don Yoshidafuture fashion and design students continue to draw inspiration from both the runway and the gallery.” The 78th annual fashion show will feature more than 300 original garments in a tented venue in Millennium Park. Seniors in the SAIC’s fashion design department Blog 7 - Nick Cave with his artistswill create complete collections of five garments; juniors will show three and each sophomore will present one avant-garde look in muslin. The show will be presented three times throughout the day before a final evening presentation with more Blog 8 - St. Jude’s Cathy Breitthan 70 Factor Runway models strutting down an 80-foot runway inside a 15,000-foot tent. The 9 a.m. show is a general admission dress rehearsal and tickets are $40, the noon Blog 9 - Nick Cave (L), Carrie Lannon (R) and friendand 3 p.m. shows are also general admission seating with tickets priced at $75 and the main event is $500 and includes a cocktail reception and elegant post-show dinner on the rooftop terrace of the Harris Theater. For more info, please call 312.499.4190 or visit www.said.edu/fashionshow. (To view ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click HERE!)

Blog 1 - Chicagolicious star-salon owner AJ Johnson (L) with admirersThe dynamic cast from the local reality show, “Chicagolicious,” is still hard at work filming segments around town. Their latest location was at the River West hotspot Sepia located at 123 N. Blog 2 - Ari Johnson and salon manager Niki RobinsonJefferson. Stylists at AJ Johnson’s Salon, located at 684 W. Randolph, are starring in this upcoming “Jerseylicious” spinoff and just finished another segment at Scoop NYC where they offered free hair and makeup to the public. This drama will showcase the salon’s hairstylists, Blog 3 - Sepia’s Emanuel Nony and Liza Brooksmakeup artists, salon manager and marketing director and their crazy antics at this close-knit salon that caters to a high-profile clientele. (Jennifer Hudson, Iman and Angela Bassett have all been AJ-ized.) Cast members include hair stylists Valincia Saulsberry, Howard Godfrey and Blog 4 - Glam guests with Niki Robinson (2nd from R)MaCray Huff, salon manager Niki Robinson, makeup artists Katrell Mendenhall and Austin Maxfield and marketing director Q Lacey. Even AJ’s son, Ari, appears in some segments along with Julie Darling, Liza Brooks and Jenny Blog 5 - Future restaurant owner-cast member Julie Darling with show directorSepulveda. Another segment has been filmed at the Stan Mansion but I can’t tell you anymore (we all signed confidentiality agreements) but suffice it to say, I have some great pics to share by Helena Rafeyan! I wish these lovable locals all the best and hope their hard work pays off! Stay tuned and watch for “Chicagolicious,” premiering in June on the Style Network. (To view ALL pics from this fun event, please click HERE!)   

DinnerParty0208[1]Another local production created by Fear No ART’s Elysabeth Alfano is getting rave reviews with her new online show called “The Dinner Party.” This live show is filmed with a five-camera feed at the Mayne Stage, located at1330 W. Morse, before a studio audience on the last Monday of every month. Elysabeth invites three to four creatives (artists, inventors, entrepreneurs, etc.) to a dinner created by a guest chef and 2DinnerParty0206over food, wine and a few impromptu performances, the conversat
ions flow. Viewers and audience members (who share in the food tastings) can tweet questions and win prizes if their tweets are picked. On Monday, April 30th, Chef Paul Kahan, “Saturday Night Live” alum Nora Dunn, former “Project Runway” TDP 15contestant and “All Stars” hopeful Peach Carr and Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Lane Alexander will meet at “The Dinner Party.” The evening will also include a performance by the dance troupe BAM, illustrations by artist Rosemary Fanti and set paintings by Michael O’Briant. Dinner0146PartyThe evening ends with an open cocktail party with artists and attending audience members. For more info, please visit Fear No ART's website  and to see blues legend Billy Branch singing “Hoochie Coochie Man” on a recent segment, click here! The show was recently chosen as one of the top five in the Tribune’s feature article about the best variety-type shows in the city – WOWZA! Good luck, Elysabeth: You are one of the hardest working women in showbiz and I know your new show will be a huge success! 

Blog 1 - Supreme Court Justice Mary Jane Their presents award to NoraI just love the wonderful work that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago do for our kids! They recently honored 17-year-old Nora Martinez, a General Robert E. Wood club member, as its 2012 Youth of the Year at an awards ceremony at Navy Blog 2 - Nora and the Mayor walking to stage for awardPier. Martinez lovingly refers to her club located in South Lawndale as “My Little World,” the place that gave her support to achieve her goals in academics and athletics and inspired her to give back to her community. During the speech competition, 10 semi-finalists representing Blog 4 - Nora with President and CEO of BGCCclubs throughout Chicago, shared their challenges, hopes and heartfelt experiences as BGCC members. Besides Nora, members at the event included Michel Lopez, Odalys Garcia, Lucy Onoh, Dajanee Tate, Jeremy O’Brian, Jose Gonzalez, Vincent Poole-Oliphant, Darius Smallwood, Jonathan Blog 3 - Program Director Fernando Lopez, Maria Martinez, Nora and Club Director Hermilo HinojosaPittman, Briana Burtley and Brittany Barraza. Honorary Chairman of the Corporate Board of Directors Mayor Rahm Emanuel said, “Nothing is more important than our investment in our children and striving to put every one of them on a path to Blog 5 - Mayor with members of BGCCsuccess.” Martinez is currently the vice president of the Keystone Club and volunteers for multiple service events in her community. Martinez has even hosted service events at her club and brought together a group of her friends to raise money for Children’s Memorial Hospital. BGCC provides services through 16 locations for 10,000 children each year. Congrats, Nora!! (For more info, please visit www.bgcc.org.)
 
Blog 2 - With Hef in 1976Playboy’s Hugh Hefner had a very special 86th birthday party recently, surrounded by admirers at his Holmby Hills mansion for the screening of his favorite film, “Casablanca.” They dressed in costume for the occasion, and after the screening, shared champagne and caviar by candlelight in the dining room that had been converted into Rick’s Café. Hef was presented with a special birthday cake which had his face superimposed on Humphrey Bogart’s body from the original film poster. Happy birthday Hef and I wish you many more happy occasions as “time goes by.”

AlalogoPet lovers should NOT miss this party to benefit Annie’s Little Angels Small Breed Dog and Cat Rescue on Sunday, May 6th, at Chicago Party Animals, located at 1133 W. Fulton Market from 1 to 4 p.m. Hosted by Chicago’s newest canine clothing and accessory line, Perry Dog, this Perry Dog in White Hoodieevent will be the first in a series of benefits called “Perry Dog Presents Perry to the Rescue Party.” This party will cater to tiny canines (less than 30 lbs.) with massages by Canine Massage Chicago, nail trims by Pet Care Plus and lots of treats. Julia Morel, who was inspired by her rescue Chihuahua Perry, co-founded Perry Dog in 2010. Her mission is to raise money for animal welfare rescue groups with the first benefitting Annie’s Little Angels. Tickets are $10 per dog and admission for humans is FREE! For tickets and more info, please visit www.perrydogchicago.com. 

Blog 1Chicago’s second annual “Red Dress Party” will be held at the Joffrey Ballet Studios, located at10 E. Randolph, on Saturday, April 21st, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Beverly McClellan of “The Voice” has been confirmed to perform with GMA’s weekend (and former NBC Chicago) meteorologist Ginger Zee serving as emcee. The evening will begin with a decadent VIP red carpet reception hosted by Chicago’s own Miss Lucy Foozie at 8 p.m. followed by Beverly’s inspirational performance at 10:30 Blog 2p.m. The only rule for the evening is that all guests must wear red. The Red Dress Party is dedicated to both raising awareness for the HIV/AIDS movement and funds for organizations that provide vital community services. I was proud to co-host this event last year with NBC’s Marcus Riley and it is a must-attend, fun-filled party for a great cause! Chair Kyler Ashton Powell and his dynamic committee are working hard to make this event something very memorable and I know it will be! Tickets begin at $100 and can be purchased by visiting www.chicagoreddressparty.org. To see the fun from last year’s event on Watch312.com, see below!

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Fabrice_Calmels-27565Watch for an exciting art installation coming the first week of May to the riverfront beneath the Trump Tower! Anyone who is a fan (and who isn’t?!), of the dashing 6’6” Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels will love this! Renowned Joffrey photographer Herbert Migdoll has created a 300-foot long and 15-foot high photo of Fabrice swimming!!!! I can’t wait to see this and wish it could be permanent but sadly, it will only be up through July 7th. I can’t wait to ogle, I mean see, this fantastic artwork of much-loved Fabrice! Congrats to Herb and The Joffrey Ballet for yet another “first” for Chicago! (THIS HAS JUST BEEN NIXED BY TRUMP…DETAILS TO FOLLOW…Je suis desolee!)

Day 70 - PopupBox - Candace JordanThe countdown to the grand opening of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House has begun! Only 69 more days until the House at 211 E. Grand Ave. opens its doors on June 26th and RMHCLogoI’m joining in to help! Each day on their website, www.RonaldHouseChicago.org,  and on their Facebook and Twitter they’re featuring a new Countdown Photo of a “famous face or place” (their words, not mine) in Chicago and today, they have an adorable puppy! (I was proud to be #70 yesterday). They’re encouraging the city to join in on the fun, by downloading your own number card here, and posting your photos to their Facebook page – hundreds have already posted their pics! And if you have a cute pet pic, please post that!  Don’t forget to tweet about it using the hashtag #86DayCountdown! For more info, please click here!
 
I am on sensory overload thinking about all of these great happenings in the greatest city in America! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing about it! Have a great week and I will see you here next time, I hope!  (And don't forget to sign up for Watch312's VIP Club here and see the new video here!  Lots of gift giveaways to come plus some of my favorite spots around town!)

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And now, something cute for all of you cat lovers out there!

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August 28, 2011 · 6:59 pm

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

Blog 1 - Honorary Chair Valerie Warner with Step Up teen participants Two great events for wonderful causes BOTH on the same night! What is Candid Candace to do? Go to both, of course! The first “Shine & Dine” was held at Galleria Marchetti recently Blog 2 - Greg Moore, Annette Winkleman, founder Gina Marotta, Ramona and Peter Marsh to benefit Step Up Women’s Network. This event, the first of its kind, attracted more than 400 guests. Honorary Chair, ABC 7’s Valerie Warner, sparkled and inspired from Blog 3 - Marcus Riley, Jason Erkes, DC Crenshaw and Cameron Croft the stage to the crowd consisting of local professionals and notables. The evening was a mix of philanthropy plus seasonal fare from Chicago’s hottest restaurants all to benefit Blog 4 - Cassandra Gaddo, Erica Strama and friends the charitable programs of Step Up Women’s Network. Managing Director Gina Marotta said, “Step Up has been a fixture in Chicago for five years and this special event is the perfect Blog 5 - Honorary Chair Valerie Warner, Laura Schwartz and Gina Marotta way to celebrate our work with local women and girls, as well as attract new enthusiasts to our cause.” Wave Executive Chef Kristine Subido and ZED451 Executive Chef Patrick Quakenbush were on hand to offer Blog 5 - JC Steinbrunner, his sweetie Amalie Drury and Liz Grossman guests their exclusive tastings as well as favorites from The Purple Pig. The event’s host committee included D.C. Crenshaw, Cameron Croft, Amalie Drury, Cassandra Gaddo, Todd Helmink, Jonny Imerman, Stacy Levy, Kim Lichtenstein, Peter Marsh, Robert McGhee, Susanna Negovan, Daphne Ortiz, Todd S. Pugh, Marcus Riley, Laura Blog 6 - Cute SUWN staffers Schwartz, Erica Strama, Genevieve Theirs, Julee White and moi. This Blog 8 - A packed house at Galleria Marchetti wonderful organization supports and mentors teen girls in Chicago’s most underserved communities to become confident, college-bound and career-ready! For more info on how YOU can become involved, please visit www.suwn.org. (All photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Blog 1 - RMHC’s COB Paul Huebener, Jamie Haberkorn, Ronald, co-chairs Lesley Goodman, Carol Beitler and MaryAnne Smith This same evening, one of my favorite new spots in town, The Rooftop at Studio Paris, was the scene of a party hosted by The Women’s Auxiliary of Ronald McDonald House Blog 2 - Kimberly Gleeson, Richard Doermer, John and Carol McKinnon and friends Near Lurie Children’s. This benefit was co-chaired by three of the most enthusiastic ladies I know – Carol Beitler, Lesley Goodman and MaryAnne Smith (Coach Lovie’s Blog 3 - Marge Hamm, Anna Treiber, Kathleen Henson, Caroline Kinney and Julie Hamm vivacious wife). Two hundred plus supporters participated in this benefit that raised more than $50,000 to support the Rooftop Retreat of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House. Debuting Blog 4 - Jami Weiman, Bari Izenstark and Steve Beitler in 2012 and designed to give families a chance to relax and replenish after a day at the hospital, this impressive space will be surrounded by Blog 5 - Rochelle Trotter and Frances Renk nine-foot glass walls with both a family activity area and a meditation garden. The brick sculpture dividing the two areas will feature the city’s first skyline bricolage mosaic, a customized Blog 6 - Sarca’s Alexis Cozzini (center) with cute friends mural constructed from pieces of tile, mirrors, paintings and photographs which the Auxiliary is sponsoring. On this night, guests were introduced to some of the wall’s artists as well as having an opportunity to create a tile to be embedded in the structure.Another fun event is planned for September 27th. Starting at 4 PM, “Topping Off” festivities will begin on the garage rooftop across the street from the new House at 211 E. Grand. Following the official ceremony at 5 PM, Saks on Michigan Avenue (courtesy of Heather Farley) has invited everyone for an exclusive night of fashion and cocktails from 6 to 8 PM. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins. To view ALL images, please click here.)

Blog 1 - Russell Crowe Film star and Oscar winner Russell Crowe tweeted to his 250,000 followers: "Rode from Algonquin to Lake Geneva (WI). Beautiful place, my first ever visit to Wisconsin. If you are in the area, check out Baker House." Blog 2 - Baker House Well, it just so happens my darling friend, Bethany, OWNS Baker House and this is her report: "Last night (8/25), Russell Crowe arrived (unannounced) at our new restaurant, The Baker House, in Lake Geneva, WI. He came in with two male friends and asked to be seated in our lakefront garden. They were hungry and seemed a bit tired…evidently, turns out he and his two male companions had biked from Algonquin, Blog 3 - Versailles Turret Luxury Suite Illinois, to Lake Geneva, 40 miles, and then spent the day trekking around our scenic 28-mile lake! Russell said it was his FIRST VISIT EVER TO WISCONSIN and Blog 4 thought it was beautiful, and when he left he tweeted to his fans that if ever in the area, they should check out the Baker House! Our staff all wear costumes set in the 1890's through 1920's and Russell was amused asking our waitress if she liked dressing up when she came to work! Blog 5 - Provence Premier Suite When he and his friends left, they said Blog 6 - Bordeaux Premier Room fireplace they had an early day in Chicago or would have spent the night in our luxury hotel rooms that just opened. That would have been awesome!" Truth be told, this beautiful, vintage hotel with a lakefront setting has been on MY hit list for quite some time. My neighbors love it and we have been invited a few times but my schedule has never allowed us to go. Nestled in scenic beauty on Blog 7 - Champagne Luxury Suite Geneva Lake, this hotel was built in 1885 as a summer home for a wealthy family. Situated at 327 Wrigley Dr. in downtown Lake Geneva, this vintage, painted lady boasts 30 rooms, 13 fireplaces, nightly entertainment, a lakefront garden and is a Nationally Registered Historic property. Luxury suites begin at $340 and there are many packages available. I am sure Russell will be returning…and I hope I can meet him for cocktails in the lakefront garden! (With my husband, of course!) (Baker House, 327 Wrigley Dr., downtown Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, 262.248.4700)

Godogood-1 I love feel-good stories, feel good movies and, of course, feel good campaigns! And this one is pretty special. Chicago Loop Alliance, along with the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, in support of their public art initiative, created the “GO DO GOOD” campaign. (You would only miss the brightly-colored yellow signs around town if you were living in a cave, which hopefully you aren’t!) This campaign is a summer long, citywide movement to prepare Chicago’s kids to succeed in school and to also encourage good deeds around town. The theme Events.Par.26414.Image.0.0.1 is based on the Chicago Loop Alliance’s commissioned “Go Do Good” art installation which is a six foot story mural by Midwest based, internationally-acclaimed contemporary artist, Kay Rosen. This 30-second PSA was produced by Julee White’s Testarossa Entertainment in association wih the Illinois Center for Broadcasting (that shot and edited the spot). Check it out (campaign ends on Sept. 10th) and GO DO GOOD!!! :)

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

Blog 1 - Shawntae Calhoun Photo by Dennis Lee The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival is the first of its kind in Chicago! “In-Fashion,” presented by MasterCard, will feature a two-week (August 26th through Sept. 8th) celebration of style Blog 2 - Carson Kressley featuring exclusive shopping offers, hotel packages, sweepstakes, culinary events and celebrities galore! Stylist Carson Kressley kicked off the event early on Aug. 26th in Pioneer Court on Blog 3 - Brian Atwood Michigan Avenue. There are too many events to mention here but expect to see Cubs catcher Geovany Soto, "Real Housewives'" Kyle Richards, Bill Kurtis, hunky shoe designer Brian Atwood, Chef Gale Gand and "Project Runway’s" Mondo Guerra at events around town. I will be dividing my time on Sept. 8th between Saks Fifth Avenue’s shoe salon re-opening (10022-SHOE) with Brian Atwood (6 to 9 PM) and 900 Shops VIP party featuring Bravo’s Brad Goreski (6 to 9 PM). Congrats to Carrie Lannon, In-Fashion Chairperson and National Director of PR for ULTA Beauty! For more info, please visit www.shop900.com/fno.

RED_560x195 On Tuesday, Sept. 27th, the Goodman Theatre will present its opening benefit featuring the Tony award-winning play by John Logan, “Red,” which is described as a journey into the mind of abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, for whom paintings are “pulsating” life forces intended “to stop the heart.” The evening will begin with cocktails and dinner at the Modern Wing of the Art Institute, located at 159 E. Monroe, followed at 8 PM with the performance of “Red.” Gala and performance tickets begin at $500. Performance only tickets start at $25.

Blog 1 As you know, there was extensive damage to our fabulous Garfield Park Conservatory during the hail storm on June 30th. Thus, the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance is spearheading a fundraising campaign to restore the damaged panes. Entitled, “Wine & Wildflowers,” this fundraiser will be held Thursday, Sept.1st, at the Lincoln Park Zoo Blog 2 - Garfield Park Conservatory Fern Room hail damage from 5:30 to 8 PM and will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a meet-and-greet with author Julia Bachrach. Tickets are $95 and can be purchased by visiting lpzoo.org/wine.

Blog 1 On Friday, September 23rd, an event very close to my heart, “Couture & Cocktails,” will be celebrating its sixth year as one of the biggest fundraisers for The Joffrey Ballet. Co-created by Helen Melchior and myself, this year’s event is being chaired by matching dynamos Kristina McGrath and Rebecca Besser. Held for the first time at this hot, Blog 2 - Joffrey dancers on the catwalk at C & C 2009 new, BIG (115,000 feet.) venue, the Hudson at 2222 S. Michigan (where Ikram hosted her anniversary party!), this party/fashion show will feature the designs of David Meister (presented by our great friends at Neiman Marcus). Beginning with a VIP Party at 6 PM, there will also be a live and silent auction as well as the event’s signature “fun food.” Live auction items feature a Blog 3 - C & C at the Palmer House 2009 Championship Round Masters Golf Package for four, a dream trip to British Virgin Island’s Bitter End Yacht Club, a private yacht for eight in Florida and a Ready-Made Champagne and Wine Collection. Tickets start at $275 with packages available. For more info and tickets, please visit Joffrey.org/CoutureandCocktails.

Lynn Sage Cancer Luncheon 2011 The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host its 26th Annual Fall Benefit luncheon on Monday, Sept. 19th at the Ritz-Carlton. (Chuck’s birthday!!!!) Featuring Goldie Hawn, the event will begin at 11 AM followed by a luncheon at noon. Event chairs are Ashley Netzky and Lara Shipp Shiffman with Maggie Daley serving as the Honorary Chair. For tickets or more info, please visit www.lynnsage.org, email lynnsage@nmh.org or call 312.926.7133. And that’s this week’s lowdown on Chicago’s fabulous highlights! 🙂

Most Valuable Blogger Nominee Logo Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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