Tag Archives: Fred Jackson

February 18, 2013 · 1:01 pm

MCA’S ARTEDGE: A WONDERFUL CASE OF SENSORY OVERLOAD

…PLUS HAMBURG BALLET; CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR; A BIBLIOPHILE’S DREAM; GUESS WHO WON A TELLY?; LEGENDARY LANDMARKS; WOMEN’S DAY AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW; MISERICORDIA’S GOLD MEDAL WINNER; CRYSTAL HEART BALL; EVENING IN BLOOM; QATAR COMES TO CHICAGO; BUNKY SEES RED AND FUCHSIA; WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) hosted its annual artEdge fundraising benefit on February 2nd with more than 500 guests in attendance at this never-to-be-forgotten, over-the-top with creativity
event. Chicago’s art lovers, performance enthusiasts and philanthropists gathered at the MCA Warehouse for an evening of factory flair and unique performances, raising $900,000 for MCA
programming. Known for its unfettered imagination and thought-provoking events, this year’s artEdge was no exception as the MCA presented an interactive and full-sensory experience where guests were taken on
a journey and transported into a revolutionary, working factory. Notable Chicago attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Amy Rule, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, Tom Shapiro, MCA Board Chair King Harris and wife Caryn, MCA Trustees Marilyn and Larry
Fields, MCA Trustee Cari Sacks, MCA Trustee Mary Ittelson, MCA Trustees Lois and Steve Eisen, MCA Deputy Director Janet Alberti, MCA Trustees Stefan Edlis and Gael
Neeson, artists Theaster Gates, Kerry James Marshall, Dawoud Bay and Kara Walker, Chef Michael Kornick and wife Lisa, EXPO Chicago’s Tony Karman and wife Sondra, Sylvie Leger and Todd Ricketts, Neil Bluhm and Johnson
Publishing CEO Linda Johnson Rice. On a chilly Chicago evening, attendees began their journey by entering through the back alley of the MCA Warehouse, arriving at the destination’s loading dock. Upon
entering, patrons traveled upstairs to the second floor, where chain link walls and mechanical sounds guided guests into the factory. Awash with rich lighting of yellow, red and orange, the fantastic factory featured graffiti walls by Chicago
artist Hebru Brantley. artEdge co-chairs Anne Kaplan, Anita Blanchard and Martin Nesbitt and Susan and Michael Canmann greeted guests and playfully draped them with “caution” tape, preparing them for the evening of factory fun as they punched in timecards for entry. The space
featured three different rooms and each held a distinctive dining experience for guests. Throughout the evening, guests dined buffet-style and enjoyed a variety of delicacies from Jewell Events Catering served by factory workers wearing gloves and navy
blue factory coats. The first room guests arrived in – the Chain Link Room – featured scrumptious hors d’oeuvres of onion rings, fried mushrooms, pub chips and popcorn cleverly attached to chain-linked walls. Patrons were treated to an ensemble of performers, hanging high above on
chains and entertaining guests with their impressive theatrics. Jyldo and Peter Taub, MCA Director of Performance Programs, curated all performances for the evening and they were awe-inspiring with a touch of the risqué which had many guests popping out
their cell phones to record the incredible imagery. The show-stopping crowd, dressed uniquely in industrial chic cocktail attire, entered the Cafeteria Room, which featured a spinning “turn table,” where guests could sit while dining on tins of
macaroni and cheese, baked potatoes with chipped beef and tuna casserole. The highlight of the room was the “dry cleaning rack,” which featured an oscillating rack of assorted meats and cheeses hanging from hooks that guests were able to both admire and eat.
After experiencing the Cafeteria Room, guests continued the adventure, arriving in the Corrugated Room where performance troupes amused guests with sporadic, spirited performances on an illuminated stage. The Corrugated Room included a
buffet wall with an assortment of salads including cumin and carrot salad, Mediterranean faro salad and kale and Brussels sprout salad as well as a variety of soups served in trashcan-inspired containers. Following the dining hours, groups traveled downstairs to the first floor, for a special concert performance from indie pop and soul group, Fitz and The Tantrums.
Before the performance, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn gathered the co-chairs on stage for welcoming remarks, thanking them for
their dedication and support to the museum. An extravagant lighting display and distinct guitar chords signaled the arrival of Fitz and The Tantrums to the stage. The lively performance featured the band’s signature tunes and had guests dancing, Dancing, DANCING! During the concert performance, guests enjoyed
a Rubber Bar and dessert reception, featuring a special “donut wall” that had to be seen to be believed: Created cleverly with pegboards, the “donut wall” was a favorite among attendees and included four different types of donuts. The VIP Rubber Bar doubled as an apothecary, with
oversized jars filled to the brim with gummy bears, peach rings and different flavors of licorice. It was an evening I’ll never forget and was one of the best parties I’ve ever attended. Gala co-chairs, MCA staff and Heffernan Morgan’s Bill
Heffernan collaborated to create this magical evening and were inspired by the fact that this venue was indeed at one time a factory, so they brought it back to its original roots in grand style! Kudos to the co-chairs and to the MCA –
they always kick it up a notch for each and every event. All proceeds from this hugely successful factory-inspired fete will support MCA programming. Don’t miss any of their events, check out their website here! (Additional photos by Mila Samokhina.)

The internationally-acclaimed Hamburg Ballet made its highly-anticipated Chicago debut at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance performing the full-length ballet, “Nijinsky.” Created
by John Neumeier, the company’s director and chief choreographer for the past 40 years, this touching ballet had the sellout crowd enthralled. Before opening night, the Harris Theater Board of Trustees held a
special pre-performance reception to welcome the company to town as it launched its 2013 U.S. Tour. The visit was a homecoming for the Milwaukee-born Neumeier, who spent time in Chicago learning about dance as a young student. Dance supporter Mayor Rahm Emanuel was in attendance to join in the
welcoming festivities with theater board members, theater president and managing director Michael Tiknis, as well as dignitaries, Consul Generals and officials representing six countries. The opening night performance received a standing ovation from the audience and rave reviews from critics. (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

I loved seeing the Chicago Children’s Choir perform in the blockbuster theater production of “Sita Ram” recently at the Harris Theater. And now, under the direction of president and artistic director Josephine Lee, they
participated in a 10-day tour of India, with stops in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Chennai and Bangalore for concerts presented by the Jaipur Literature Festival and the U.S. Embassy. “Chicago Children’s Choir is proud to serve as global ambassadors of our great city and the country,” said Lee. “These children are truly the Voice of Chicago and this tour gave them the opportunity to experience the rich
culture of India while exhibiting the power of music to unite people through our performances and exchanges.” Throughout India, 45 singers from the world-renowned Concert Choir showcased music from “Sita Ram,” the organization’s world musical based on the ancient Hindu epic “Ramayana,” and performed selections from their diverse
repertoire spanning classical, world, gospel and popular music. In addition to scheduled performances, the Choir conducted workshops with children from The Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit that provides support for street and working children in inner cities of New Delhi and Mumbai. The Concert Choir is the most advanced Chicago Children’s Choir ensemble, with children ages 12-18 selected from thousands in Chicago Children’s Choir Programs throughout the city. (For more info, please visit www.ccchoir.org.)

If you love books, you should know of this wonderful international bookseller, Books Tell You Why. Established in South Carolina in 2002, this company is one of the leading sources for rare and autographed books. I was honored when they asked to interview me for their book blog. (Read here!) I never get tired of reading and talking about rare books and love the wonderful stories surrounding great finds: A copy of Edgar Allan Poe’s first book, “Tamarlane,”
was found in a Goodwill shop and recently, a young man cleaning out his deceased grandfather’s library came across a signed copy of “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley, whose signature is rarer than hen’s teeth! It’s a fun hobby and this is the website to check out to get started yourself!

I hope you are all fans and followers of my Watch312.com show, “Candid Candace Chicago.” Our most recent video covers a hilarious night of comedy at “Laugh Out Loud” with Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and darling former Bear Jerry Azumah! Their famous friends came out to support them and it’s all captured
here on my show! I'm also very excited to report that one of my show segments won a TELLY AWARD (Tellys honor the very best film and video productions, groundbreaking online video content, and outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs!!) (See the award winning segment here!) Congrats to my Watch312.com editor Josh Orr (check out his scary Vanishing Point films here!), Watch312.com executive producer Bill Natale and crack cameramen Alonzo Stallings, Fred Jackson and Abe Pina! More to come!!!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=N5bmo1OTqfFnDjEh-GbTPCkYrl-QF5ZI&version=2

The 2013 Legendary Landmarks Celebration will honor Leslie Hindman, John W. McCarter and Target at the Four Seasons Hotel on March 7th. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception followed by dinner, a live auction and an awards ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. in the Ballroom. Honoree Leslie Hindman founded Leslie Hindman Auctioneers
in 1982 and for the past three decades, she has remained a constant force behind high profile auctions. My personal friendship with Leslie began when she discovered a Van Gogh painting in an attic; I attended the auction (did NOT buy the Van Gogh) and we've been friends ever since. She is not only an amazing businesswoman but she is loved by all who know her. (Leslie will be presented by John H. Bryan.) As president of the Field Museum of Natural History Chicago, honoree John W.
McCarter has served the museum for the last 16 years. He is a fellow of the American Academy of the Arts and Sciences and serves on many high-profile boards. McCarter graduated from Princeton University, has an
MBA from Harvard Business School and also attended the London School of Economics. (John will be presented by Kim White.) Minneapolis-based Target Corporation opened its first store in 1962 and today serves guests at nearly 1,800 trend-forward discount retail stores and at Target.com. Target entered the Chicago market almost 20 years ago and today has 11 stores within the city limits and more than 50 in the metropolitan area. (Target will
be presented by Marty Stern.) The Chicago Sun-Times' Bill Zwecker will serve as emcee and the event will be co-chaired by Joseph Antunovich and Janet Rotner and the celebration committee includes Madeline Gelis, Shelley Gorson and Karen Prieur. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Landmarks Illinois Preservation Heritage Grant Fund, which has made more than 80 grants providing essential assistance for the revitalization of historically and architecturally significant properties. Hope to see YOU there! For tickets and more info, please click here or call 312.553.2000.

Congrats to Oak Park native and Misericordia Heart of Mercy Home resident Patrick McCarthy: He recently won a gold medal for speed skating in the Special Olympics! His gold came in the 777m speed skating category and he also
won a bronze medal in the 500m and finished fourth in the 333m, while attending the Special Olympics World Games from January 29th through February 5th in South Korea. On February 2nd, Patrick was seeded fifth out of sixth in the 777m races. In the semi-final he skated 11 seconds faster than his personal best, finishing in first place and advancing to the finals.
While competing against speed skaters from Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Austria and Hong Kong, Patrick was able to shave off an additional four seconds for a personal best finishing in first place to win a gold medal! Olympic gold medal-winning American speed skaters Apolo Ohno and Dan Jansen were both on hand to congratulate Patrick’s Team USA and skate a unified relay race. The 23-year-old has been a resident at Misericordia Heart of
Mercy Home since 2010. The Home, located on the north side of Chicago, supports more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities. Patrick, who has Down syndrome, has been an active participant in Special Olympics since he was eight years old and is a member of the Misericordia Special Olympics team in aquatics,
athletics, golf, basketball, and power lifting. His career on the ice began in August of 2000 with the Tomahawks, a special needs hockey team sanctioned by Amateur Hockey Association Illinois. Patrick began speed skating to improve his hockey skills but soon discovered his love of the sport and began competing one year later. (He currently trains with the Evanston Speed Skating Club.) Huge congrats Patrick and to learn more about Misericordia Heart of Mercy, please click here!)

The Chicago Auto Show was THE place to be this year for Women’s Day on February 12th. Hundreds of women came out to peruse the latest auto trends and attend the inaugural Women Driving Excellence event.
This first-time networking event was hosted by Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Salzman, Barbara Rozgonyi, Saya Hillman, MJ Tam and Beth Rosen and presented by Broadway in Chicago, Cars.com,
RedEye, Chicago Tribune and Monika Dixon PR. It was a chance to mix and mingle, sample spa and wellness services and enjoy the show. I was honored to be included as one of the speakers for its Women Driving Excellence presentation that also included
Anupy Singla (celebrity author and entrepreneur and Chicago Now blogger), Corri McFadden (E-DropOff founder), Genevieve Thiers (Sittercity founder/serial entrepreneur), Karen Weigert (the Mayor’s Chief Sustainability Officer) and Luvvie Ajayi (The Red Pump Project co-founder). Every
speaker was inspiring and had incredible stories to share about how they “start, accelerate, fuel and steer others to excellence.” The event also included a Broadway in Chicago “I Love Lucy” stage performance. I will treasure my award and this special day shared with inspiring women – congrats to all! Darling reporter LeeAnn Trotter summed up the event perfectly here in her NBC coverage below…thanks for being there, LeeAnn!

http://media.nbcchicago.com/assets/pdk449/pdk/swf/flvPlayer.swf?pid=PEe98WS9IYL6

Little Company of Mary Hospital’s Foundation hosted its 23rd annual Crystal Heart Ball on February 2nd at the Field Museum featuring the Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts exhibit. The emcee was Little Company of Mary’s very own Patrick Elwood
(Fox 32 Chicago). More than 830 guests danced the night away to the music of the Indigo Orchestra while perusing more than 200 rare, sparkling artifacts including elaborate jewelry, ornate weaponry, royal costumes, and stunning artwork of the “great king,” the Maharaja. This premiere gala raised more than $467,000 for “Values, Vision, Innovation: the
Campaign for Little Company of Mary Hospital.” The Mary Potter Humanitarian Award was presented to Harmony, Hope & Healing (HHH) and accepted by its founder, Marge Nykaza. (HHH is a non-profit organization that provides creative, therapeutic and educational music programs, offering spiritual and emotional support to
homeless and underserved women, children and men in the Chicago area.) The Sister Nancy Boyle Award for Excellence was presented to The Cancer Center’s Integrative Therapy Department of Little Company of Mary Hospital. Susan Arnold, R.N., B.S.N., M.S., Director of Patient Care Services, accepted this honor on behalf of the Integrated Therapy team. Dr. Irving and Shirley Fuld chaired the
fundraising event along with their co-chairs, Mr. Matt and Mrs. Mary Ellen Filosa. They presented four cash raffle prizes as well as a raffle prize of an 18-karat gold agate yellow sapphires and white diamonds bracelet won by Matt Kavanaugh. The grand prize cash raffle of $15,000 went to Francis J. O’Donovan. For more information on Little Company of Mary’s Foundation Department or to learn how you can donate, please visit www.LCMH.org/foundation.

“Evening in Bloom,” an exclusive first-look preview event of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show opens on March 8th. The event is from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Festival Hall at Chicago’s Navy Pier and heralds the arrival of spring in the city. The theme of
the 2013 Chicago Flower & Garden Show is The Art of Gardening. The show opens to the public at 10 a.m. on March 9 and runs daily through March 17th. A portion of the proceeds from “Evening in Bloom” benefit Chicago Gateway Green, a non-profit
organization dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways; Peterson Garden Project, a volunteer non-profit organization committed to teaching people how to grow their own food; the Kendall College Charitable Trust, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to providing support for students of need enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs; and Special Olympics Chicago, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The preview event
will showcase nearly two dozen stunning display gardens, as well as original artworks in a variety of forms. Guests will have an opportunity to meet several artists, whose works will be shown during the event. As they mingle in the garden “gallery,” guests will sample fine wines and a variety of hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants as well as enjoy a garden-themed regional cake competition on the closing day. For tickets ($125 each) and more info, please visit www.chicagoflower.com.

Drum roll please: And the Chicago Interior Design Firm of the Year issssssssss…CANNON FRANK! In a contest sponsored by Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine and the Design Center at the Merchandise Mart, Cary Frank and John Cannon’s creative company won top honors! Congrats on your wonderful partnership, both professionally and personally! 🙂

Bunky Cushing did it again! For his 20th annual Valentine’s Day Tea held in the Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton, more than 100 of our town’s movers and shakers turned out in force to celebrate with this beloved Chicago
icon. For the first time, the invite offered guests the option of dressing in either fuchsia, pink or red as opposed to the previous “Ladies Please Wear Red” request. This annual tea – now privately known as the “Red Heart 100” – has been called “one of Chicago’s most sought-after-invitations” by Harper’s Bazaar. Attendees included Mary Pat Burns, Sharyl Mackey, Sherry Lea Holson, Lynda Silverman, Robin Segesta, Laurie
Davis, Nina Mariano, Toni Canada, Myra Reilly, Hazel Barr, Jean Antoniou, Stacie Mickelson, Eileen Weinberg, Felicia Winiecki, Diane Edelman, Greg Hyder, Dan Uslan, JP Anderson, Sherrill
Bodine, Megan McKinney, Rochelle Trotter, Mary Ann Rose, Darby Hills, Tina Weller, Cathy Bell (newly engaged!), Sheree Valukas, Amalie Drury, Rebecca Besser, Martha Wallace, Ann Wallace and Heather Farley Ingram among others. Bunky has been a fixture on the city’s philanthropic
scene for as long as I can remember. He hosts annual fundraisers that benefit the Howard Brown Clinic as well as the Jane Addams Senior Caucus. The Chicago Tribune has called Bunky “an arbiter of style for the
crème de la crème of Chicago society,” and Vogue has called him “Chicago’s social tugboat.” He has been associated with Ralph Lauren for more than 25 years as a consultant, his time with the company taking him to
New York, Miami, and finally settling in Chicago in 1990. His weekly column, “Squire of Society,” is not to be missed! Thanks for all you do Bunky! (To see ALL pics from this always amazing event, please click here!)

On April 10th, Qatar Airways will officially honor Chicago as its newest gateway! A VIP host committee met recently at the Waldorf for a luncheon to learn more about this five-star airline and what their plans are for our fair city. I was happy to learn that they plan on becoming involved in the communities, spreading some love to our local
charities while increasing their visibility. Qatar’s Rebecca Jelfo welcomed the group and said, “This partnership with Chicago will bring an estimated $250 million and thousands of jobs to the community.” I was honored to
be a part of this committee who also included Israel Idonije, Christopher Clinton Conway, Linda Johnson Rice, Les Coney, Alexi Giannoulias, Lindsay Avner, Sheila King, Tracy Schmidt, Wendy Krimins, Greg Hyder, Kedzie Schotters, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Jon and Andrew Landan, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, Shawn Baldwin, Keene Addington, Angela Schoenhard, Justin Jacobson, JP Anderson, Katherine and Abigail Tarbox and Laurie Davis among others. Welcome to Chicago, Qatar…this will be the beginning of a beautiful friendship!

A Drink With Chicago is hosting a charity comedy event on February 19, at The Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway. Co-founder Kelly Kane and Hillary Sawchuk will be interviewing the comedians on stage as well as over a drink, of course! Proceeds will benefit Rescue Our Angels which raises funds for families in need to receive autism treatment. Jenny McCarthy's Generation Rescue Foundation will then distribute the funds raised through their grant program. For tickets and more info, please click here!

“Night of the Matador” will be held on February 23rd from 9 p.m. to midnight at Tavernita, located at 151 W. Erie. This event – themed “Old Spain” – will benefit the Equestrian Connection, which is one of the largest therapeutic riding centers in the country. Treating more than 300 children and adults with disabilities, this charity improves the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing by providing equine therapeutic programs. For tickets, $40, and more info, please click here!

Get your poker face on! The Little City Foundation and Spex – Chicago’s favorite stop for luxury eyewear – will co-host “Seeing Hope Together” on March 9th at the Hard Rock Hotel. This exciting poker tournament and casino night will support children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities and include an eyewear trunk show, all-night lavish buffet, open bar and swag bags! Spex Director of Marketing Michael Caputo and Little City Executive Director Shawn Jeffers hope to see YOU there! For tickets ($150), and more info, please click here!

“Cameron Rocks On!” will be held at Rockit Bar & Grill, located at 22 W. Hubbard on March 14th. Join honorary co-chair Antonio Romanucci and The Friends of Cameron for a night of fun and heart-felt giving to help kids with disabilities as they raise funds to provide care for Declan Keddy, whose Irish heritage inspired the event. The night will also support the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Patient Emergency Fund as well as the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation. For tickets ($125), and more info, please click here!

I know there are a lot of Oscar parties planned but the one I’ll be attending will be at PUBLIC Hotel (located at 1300 N. State Pkwy.) hosted by GlossedandFound.com’s Graham Kostic, Monika Dixon, Alexis Cozzini, Jessie Kalin and Darnell Robinson. From 6:30 to 10 p.m., enjoy the Academy Awards in style with champagne and hors d’oeuvres plus a chance to win a Best Dressed Award! Tickets ($50) are available at the door or online here!

That’s it for this week! Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Candid Candace and I hope you’ll follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) and Facebook (Candid Candace)! And don’t miss my Candid Candace column every week in the Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine!

Love, as always!
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Chicago entrepreneurs and dynamic chef duo, Marc J. Sievers and Ryan L. Sievers, who competed on – and won – the Chicago episode of “Bobby’s Dinner Battle” on the Food Network! Woot woot!

OSCAR FUN AND FASHION AT THE GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER!

…PLUS PAWS’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM, SUCCESS IS A JOURNEY, CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION'S STREET STYLE, BEAR TIE BALL, 60 STYLISH CHICAGOANS, STELLA’S HONOR, NINA AND BOB'S BIG DAY, JACK IS ONE, MY LATEST WATCH312.COM AND MORE!

The red carpet beckoned at the Gene Siskel Film Center for the only Academy Awards show in Chicago sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Movie lovers came dressed to the nines on this night, many inspired by some of the nominated films. Host Amanda Puck was dressed in black and white from her favorite shop, Space 519, in honor of “The Artist” and guest Allan Caliman did the same and won “The Artist Look Alike” award on this night! Other inspired winners included Renny Rhanna for “Marilyn Monroe Look Alike,” Jenna Plakut and Matthew Sullivan for “Power Couple,” Mila Samokhina for “Best Dressed Paparazzi,” Chris O’Dea for “Best Dressed Man,” Monika Rydz for “Best Dressed Woman,” Elena Samokhina for “Jessica Chastain Look Alike,” Jamie Sterle for “Zooey Deschanel Look Alike” and Emile Sile for “Morgan Freeman Look Alike.” It was a happy crowd with everyone hoping their favorites would win. The buffet dinner – generously donated by MJ Catering – also gave a nod to the theme of the evening: Each dish was inspired by a film! There was Hawaiian salmon (“The Descendants”), thyme beef encroute (“Hugo”), roasted veggies (“Tree of Life”), southern style potato gratin (“The Help”) and asparagus and gruyere tart (“Midnight in Paris”). I loved seeing the movie going crowd so excited and it was contagious. I had my own personal favorites and they included “Hugo,” “Midnight in Paris” and “The Artist” and Chuck’s favorite was “Moneyball.” We both laughed so hard over “Bridesmaids” that it was ridiculous…actually, why don’t more comedies get nominated? I think we should be throwing a little love their way right about now. And I have to say, as I watched the actual awards ceremony in one of the two state-of-the-art theaters where the 84th Annual Academy Awards show was presented courtesy of ABC7 Chicago, that I had some other thoughts. First of all, we all get it…Angelina is gorgeous but that leg-throwing thing really disappointed me. This is a woman who should NOT be trying this hard. And, as Stella Foster so aptly put it in the Sun-Times, “Angelina Jolie was elegant in black, but she could have kept that boney leg under wraps.” I love Stella, always telling it like it is! And now, here are my highlights: I loved Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz’s booty shot when they were presenting…too awesome and both glam, glam, glam! I loved both the gowns but Diaz’s won in my opinion. When she came out to present and those feathers were flying in all the right places, I was thrilled for her. I loved Billy Crystal from beginning to end. I am tired of nastiness, not only at awards shows but anywhere – life is hard enough…let’s try to be nice to each other! Funny can be nice, as Billy has proven time and time again; I loved his comment about being in a theatre (“These are the places to laugh, to cry and to text.”), his comment about being at the “beautiful Chapter 11 Theatre…” and finally, “We have puppets and acrobats…we’re a pony away from being a bar mitzvah.” Gene Siskel Film Center Executive Director Jean de St. Aubin said, “As Chicago’s premiere movie theater, we look forward every year to hosting the official Oscar party to celebrate achievements in film. We’re thrilled to be sold out again and the crowd is so glamorous…it rivals the real red carpet.” Associate Director of Development Joel Mangers had this to say about the event: “Fun, sexy…everybody is having a great time! It’s the most fun you can have outside of Hollywood!” I thought it was interesting, too, that the last baseball film nominated was “Field of Dreams.” I loved “Moneyball” (probably for all the wrong reasons!) and who could believe Sandra Bullock could speak German Mandarin Chinese??!! Penelope Cruz was perfect from head to toe, as usual. I’m thrilled Meryl Streep won – 17 nominations and now three wins – and isn’t it refreshing that she is still so humble? I loved her speech and loved the fact that her first shout-out was to her beloved husband, Don Gummer, to whom she has been married for 34 years. I also loved the Cirque du Soleil performance, although I think it was much more impactful in the theater than on TV as the standing ovation proved. It was a real treat to cover this night at the Gene Siskel Film Center for my show, “Candid Candace Chicago,” on Watch312.com. We have the greatest crew and I want
to thank them all here now: Cameraman/editor Fred Jackson, producer Jill Bastian, editor Josh Orr, executive producer Bill Natale, producer John Basile and cameraman Brian Kaempen (Split Film Productions). I hope you enjoy this video as much as I enjoyed making it! 🙂 Congrats and thanks to the Gene Siskel Film Center for presenting such wonderful independent and international cinema, film festivals, cutting edge programs, premieres, retrospectives and classic films. Their next event will honor actress Reese Witherspoon on June 23rd at the Ritz-Carlton. Check here for more info. (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina…click here for more!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D37724%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

PAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism Party attracted a fun-loving and fur-filled crowd of more than 300 people and 80 pets to their sixth annual event at Galleria Marchetti on February 17th. The evening was hosted by KISS FM’s Brotha Fred and Angi Taylor and included dinner, dancing, photo ops and a one-of-a-kind live and silent auction. Highlights included the chance to fly a military aircraft under the guidance of an expert instructor. The aircraft was the North American SNJ-5, the Navy version of the T-6, which trained almost every allied fighter pilot during WWII and into the Korean War. This amazing package sold for only $550!!! Four premium seats for a Cubs game three rows behind first base included a party bus to the game and sold for only $600. (Now you see another reason why you should be coming to these events: great auction deals!) A trip to NY with two VIP tickets to “The Late Show with Jimmy Fallon” sold for $2,450. During the evening, Petco Foundation was honored for its extraordinary donations to PAWS Chicago’s Pet Food Bank and the GusMobile. This medical van visits Chicago’s low income communities offering free spay/neuter services as well as medical care. PAWS will save 4,500 homeless cats and dogs this year and spay or neuter more than 18,000 pets, the majority free for families who can’t afford this on their own. “It is so inspiring to see so many young professionals, passionate about helping Chicago’s homeless animals,” said PAWS founder Paula Fasseas. Guests seen on the scene included Paul Earle and Ellen Rudnick, Hank, Anne and Haleigh Bernbaum, Neal Lenhoff (who generously donated $2K during the Bid to Save Lives), Andrew Pitt, Kim Gleeson, Richard Doermer, Lindsay Walter, Chris Carlton, Dr. Steve Stryker and Andrea Schwartz. This event raised more than $90,000 and was co-chaired by Ashley and Noah Pettit and Courtney and Eric Weiler. (Check out additional event pics by Sparenga Photography here!)

I was thrilled to be a part of the recent Success is a Journey seminar hosted by JMP Global’s Monika Dixon, Jennifer Christianson and Patrycja Drozdek at Hotel 71. The room was packed with more than 200 guests interested in hearing about the success and personal development of the panelists who included keynote speaker James Tarantino, FanFueled’s Anderson Bell, Boka Group’s Kevin Boehm and fitness expert Andrea Metcalf. Monika Dixon said, “Success is not a destination…it is a journey. This understanding comes when something happens in your life that shakes up the very core of your being. Our panelists discussed what it took and the moment that kept them motivated. Every time they overcame a challenge that was just beyond their reach of capabilities, it gave them a feeling of worth and of value. It is then that they realized the next step and found themselves already looking ahead to the next horizon, just beyond their view, but still surrounded by the feelings of accomplishment for the current successes.” Couldn’t have said it better myself, Monika! All of the speakers shared amazing stories of their successes and failures and how it changed them as people. Guests seen on the scene included Kamil Bartoszcze, Chris Foltz, Paul Iacono, Rachel Schwanz, Corinne Meier, Anthony Farinas, Kasia Jarosz, Ryan Beshel, Zoryana Yavorski, Lonnie Rodriguez, Nevsy Zee, Eva Pawlus, Alexandra Wilson, Patrick Meyn, Kara Moore, Patricia Bielecka, Ruth Diaz Fabiny and Nicole Townsend. Thanks so much for including me! See my speech below and to hear ALL of the speakers, please find their names on YouTube. (To view ALL event photos by Photo Affair Studios, please click here.)

And speaking of speakers, legendary fashionista Nena Ivon, along with partners Linda Heister and Jane Laidlow, have created their very own speaker’s bureau, the Chicago Speaker’s Bureau called TALKSCHIC! The intent of TALKCHIC! is to provide lifestyle speakers for spouse programs, women’s groups, executive business meetings, cruises, panels, etc. If you or someone you know are interested, please send a bio to Nena Ivon at 222 E. Pearson St., Suite 2305, Chicago, IL 60611.

Lots of fun events coming up! You won’t want to miss the Red Pump Project on Saturday, March 24th at the Society Art Gallery at 2140 W. Fulton St. from 6 to 9 p.m. This event will be held in honor of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and will feature Kim Coles, actress, comedian and motivational speaker. This is the third annual Rock the Red Fashion Show, showcasing up and coming designers from around Chicago. So ladies, prepare to rock your red pumps and fellas, rock your red ties to bring attention and awareness to the impact that HIV/AIDS has on women and girls. Awareness is always in style!

The Chicago Fashion Foundation is hosting its annual scholarship event on Wednesday, March 7th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington from 6 to 9 p.m. “Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities” will showcase the work of 10 local fashion students who will present looks representative of the signature street style of Chicago’s neighborhoods including Rogers Park, Chinatown, Andersonville and Ukrainian Village. The event will start with a cocktail reception in Preston Bradley Hall followed by the fashion show with three scholarships being awarded in the amounts of $500, $1,000 and $5,000. I am thrilled to be a judge along with the always-darling Peach Carr (“Project Runway”), Jon Cotay (Akira founder), Catie Keogh (NBC’s “24/7”), Andrea Schwartz (Macy’s) and Diego Rocha (“Project Accessory”). E-Drop Off’s Corri McFadden will be the emcee for the evening. After the runway show, former winners will debut their spring collections while Too Faced Cosmetics recreates the runway beauty looks from the evening. Tickets are $25 for students, $35 for general admission and $55 for VIP (which includes a gift bag). Hope to see you all there! I will be filming for my Watch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” and would love to see your darling, fashionable faces on camera! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Please join me for the 2012 Bear Tie Ball benefitting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation on Saturday, March 10th. This is always a wonderful event for a great cause and I hope you will all come! The event is called Rhythm for a Reason and that means they’re “gonna rattle the walls, shake a leg, and come together to make a difference in the lives of children and families battling pediatric cancer.” The night will begin at 6 p.m. at the UIC Forum with beloved co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto. Emcees for the evening will be Roe Conn and Val Warner from “Windy City Live.” Dining, dancing and awesome auctions all for a great cause! I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please click here! Black tie preferred but favorite musical era flair also encouraged!

And while we’re on the subject of Nina Mariano, please enjoy this sweet video of her and her hubby, Bob, along with members of Roundy’s management team ringing the bell for the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on February 10th! Only two conventional grocers have successfully gone public in the past 15 years – Dominick’s and Roundy’s – both of which were lead by the same CEO, Bob Mariano! Congrats, Nina and Bob! A much deserved honor!

A big thanks to TCW Magazine for including me in their “A-List – 60 Chicagoans of Style” feature! To see who was included, READ THE MAGAZINE or click here! 🙂

And last, but certainly not least, mark your calendars for yet another much deserved honor for Sun-Times super-scribe Stella Foster! The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans will be presenting her with their prestigious Dante Award at their luncheon on May 17th at Galleria Marchetti! Last year, Linda Yu received this award, as well as Stella’s mentor, Irv Kupcinet, years prior. Just love this girl who tells it like it is! For tickets and more info, please visit www.jccia.com. Congrats, Stella!!!

Well, as the NY Times says, “that’s all the news that’s fit to print” (although this isn’t really the case…I have lots more!). Just wait till next week! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I was so happy to attend the most incredible baby birthday party! Everyone I know was at Saddle & Cycle recently to toast Jackson Mackey’s first birthday. I don’t know if he’ll remember it but I sure will! The amazing décor was by Debi Lilly from A Perfect Event and will most certainly be appearing soon on a show near you! Just look at these pics and you’ll see why everyone was so happy to be a part of this little guy’s big day! Happy birthday, sweet Jack! 🙂

THE WINDY CITY WELCOMES HOLLYWOOD KINGS

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

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

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

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Thursday, September 8th

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

Friday, September 9th

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

Sunday, September 11th

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

Saturday, September 17th

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

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

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8319842&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

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

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