Tag Archives: Jamie Foxx

January 25, 2013 · 1:04 pm

WOOD AND DEJESUS WARM UP & STRIKE A POSE!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

July 5, 2012 · 10:17 am

REESE WITHERSPOON & DIRECTOR ALEXANDER PAYNE CHARM CROWD AT GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER BENEFIT

…PLUS THERE’S A BIG NEW RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE IN TOWN, PARIS OPERA BALLET’S ELEGANT DEBUT AT THE HARRIS, GLAMOURCON RETURNS TO CHICAGO WITH PLAYMATES, PIN-UPS & MODELS, DESIGNER AZEEZA KHAN’S NOMINATION, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

As many of you know, I write a weekly column in the Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine section and this Sunday’s Candid Candace featured the Gene Siskel Film Center benefit honoring Reese Witherspoon. Since I have limited space there (around 400 words), I’m going to tell you the WHOLE story right here! The night began with the largest bank of media I’ve ever seen at events of this type surrounding (though swarming would be a better word) the red carpet. I saw Bill Zwecker, Janet Davies, Jeff Conway, Dean Richards, the cute guy from “Extra” and more photographers than I knew even existed in our town! Everyone was in high anticipation to see this darling actress with such an amazing body of work and she didn’t disappoint. Her small frame hid her baby bump even though she joked about “feeling round.” When I asked her what her biggest challenge was filming “Walk the Line” – the film for which she won a Best Actress Oscar – she said it was “learning how to sing” and went on to talk about her seven months of lessons and sessions she had at T. Bone Burnett’s house. She was so unsure of her singing abilities that she called her lawyer at the start of filming to see if she could get out of the film. The answer, happily, was no! She went on to talk about the things she DID love about filmmaking saying, “I’ve had such a great career getting to learn new skills. I learned to ride an elephant in “Water for Elephants” and I got to play softball for another film (“How Do You Know”).” Reese was at the Film Center to accept the Renaissance Award, following in the footsteps of past honorees Jamie Foxx, Robert Downey, Jr., Nicole Kidman and George Lucas. Two-time Oscar-winning screenwriter and director Alexander Payne (who directed Reese in “Election”) conducted the Q & A with this petite actress but before the questions and retrospective of her films, a hilarious video was shown featuring past Renaissance Award winner, Robert Downey, Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow. The video opened with Downey deadpanning into the camera, “I say the name and feel a burning in my loins but it’s not just because you’re the sexiest woman alive, it’s because of your talent, your gift. I’ve often thought about leaving my wife, Susan Downey, for you.” All the while he’s talking, Paltrow is trying to distract him. Downey turns to her and says, “Insecure newsflash! If you don’t heap compliments on them [actresses], they end up marrying rock stars.” It had the sell-out crowd roaring! (Downey and Paltrow clearly are friends and fans and Robert even donated a set visit to “Iron Man 3,” now filming in North Carolina, to the event’s auction.) During the Q & A with Payne, Reese talked about landing the lead in the “The Man in the Moon” when she was 14. She was living in Nashville and doing some community theatre. Her father saw an ad in the paper and they auditioned, thinking she might have ended up as an extra but, of course, she landed the lead. She went on to say, “I’ve never done interviews reviewing my career. Being pregnant, I hope I don’t get too emotional taking a walk down memory lane.” Film clips were shown from “Pleasantville,” “Election,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Water for Elephants,” “Legally Blonde” and “Walk the Line,” among others. Reese talked about attending Stanford for a year and said, “In retrospect, I’d wished I’d finished.” When asked how she chooses a role, she said, “I find out about the character and whether or not I could see myself in that role. Secondly, it’s about the director, not so much for comedies, but for dramas, I need a leader. It’s difficult for a woman to be able to do both comedy and drama – it’s a privilege to be able to do both.” When asked about staying in character for a role (a la Meryl Streep), she said, “It really doesn’t work staying in character if you have kids. You can’t go home and tell them to call you June.” Her favorite films "ever" are “Splendor in the Grass” and “Raising Arizona” and her favorite co-star was Rosie the elephant in “Water for Elephants.” (“She remained in character throughout the whole movie!” joked Reese.) Marlene Iglitzen, Gene Siskel’s widow, attended the event with her three beautiful children Kate, Callie and Will. Looking stunning in a full-length black Jean Paul Gaultier dress and Lanvin necklace, she said, “Not a day goes by that I don’t think of him. He would be so proud to see these people here tonight.” Marlene went on to say that her husband often described his movie critic job as “covering the American dream beat.” The black-tie crowd feasted on a delicious dinner with each course inspired by one of Reese’s films. There was the “Vanity” salad, the “June and Johnny Duo” (fish and beef) and “Sweet Homes of the South: Alabama, Mississippi and Pleasantville” (a whoopie pie, mud cake and roasted strawberries). Seen in the crowd were Marc Klutznick and Anita Liskey (co-chairs), Michelle Cucchiaro (Advisory Board and committee member), Eda Davidman and Barry Missner, Melissa Sage Fadim (Advisory Board member), Bill Marcus, Ellen Sandor (Chairman of the Board) and husband Richard, Rosie Levin (Advisory Board member) and husband Elliot, Roopa Weber (Advisory Board and committee member), Jamey Fadim, Jean de St. Aubin (Film Center Executive Director), Cynthia and Rich Varnes, Jim Mayhercy, Shirley and Dr. Walter Massey (President of SAIC), Daniel Bryant and Joe Trpik, Jeffrey Sprecher, Averill and Buddy Leviton, Kelly Loeffler, Camille Cook (Film Center founder), Tony Jones (past SAIC president), Kristina and Mike McGrath, Lynn and John McMahan, Paul Iacono, Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker, Diana Palomar and many others. The evening raised more than $340,000 to support programming at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Check out the website for more cool upcoming events! Check out my Watch312.com video below to see what Reese and Alexander had to say. Congrats again to the Gene Siskel Film Center on all of their wonderful programming and exciting events like this one! (Fabulous photos by Mila Samokhina.)

Well, it finally happened! After so much planning, hoping, wishing and fundraising, the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House is OPEN! I was honored to be there for this special celebration on a parking garage rooftop which was directly across from the House. It was so cool! Throughout the impressive program, more than 600 attendees could plainly see the purpose for this party. Wrapped in a giant bow, the House loomed large at 16 stories and 86 rooms. I remember when Ken Norgan first got me involved with RMHCCNI at the press party at Morton’s and I was just as thrilled then as I was this day! Emcee Mark Giangreco opened the ribbon cutting ceremony on June 26th – there were so many people there…thank goodness the real Chicago heat came later in the week! But on this day, nothing could dampen anyone’s spirits as 13-year-old Kate Wild sang the National Anthem (she will also be singing the anthem on opening day in Soldier Field.) Mary Agnes Laguatan (VP of Operations for RMHCCNI) gave a moving invocation and then Governor Quinn spoke before he had to rush off to meet with the First Lady. He declared this day “Ronald McDonald House Charities Day” in Chicago. “Long may it live!” he said. Next, Senator John Cullerton presented a proclamation from the Mayor, who ALSO named June 26th as RMHC Day in Chicago. Giangreco then jokingly introduced Jim Skinner (McDonald’s CEO) as the “Grand Imperial Quarter Pounder with Cheese.” Skinner thanked the crowd on "behalf of the 1.7 million people in the McDonald’s family." The Soul Children of Chicago, directed by Walt Whitman, gave a moving performance of “The Future’s Up to Me and You” (written by Nancy Slattery and Ira Antelis) that brought the crowd to tears. MaryAnne Smith (president of the Auxiliary Board for the House) spoke next, along with her adoring husband, Coach Lovie Smith. “As we drove down Grand, I could see the House. I said to Lovie, ‘It’s a palace, it’s a home, it feels like a home and now it’s working like a home.’ It’s what we tried to build.” Doug Porter (CEO of RMHCCNI) said, “Today’s ceremony is for you to recommit.” He called out people who were instrumental in the House’s success including Jim Murray (Founder of Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia & Former Eagles' General Manager) and Joe Antunovich (House architect) among many others. Macy’s has been a HUGE supporter of the new House and has dedicated their Glamorama funds, raising more than $645K not including this year’s event, from the last three years to its building! (Speaking of Glamorama, I hope you can put Chicago’s biggest and best fashion show on your calendars! Friday, August 10th at the Harris Theater! A huge shout out and thank you to Macy’s!!! Where would we be without YOU???!!!! Following the rooftop ceremony, guests were whisked via trolley to the River East Art Center for a delicious reception! (For Glamorama tickets, click here and to view more pics, please click here!)

I must confess, I am a total loyalist to our Joffrey Ballet but I have to say the recent Paris Opera Ballet debut at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance brought tears to my eyes it was so hauntingly beautiful. The Theater hosted a gala celebration for the world’s oldest national ballet company on June 26th. Every notable, VIP, civic leader and arts lover in town attended this black tie gala that began with the performance and a cocktail reception at the Harris. More than 800 guests enjoyed the POB’s American debut of the iconic story ballet “Giselle.” “Giselle” was created in 1841 specifically for the POB and was written by poet Theophile Gautier, composed by Adolphe Adam and choreographed by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot. The Paris Opera Ballet is considered the birthplace of classical ballet with origins that trace back to 1661, during the reign of King Louis XIV of France. The 154-member ballet company is considered the epitome of perfection, purity, artistry and technical acumen and, from the performance on opening night, I can certainly see why: This company hasn’t been to the U.S in 15 years and the full corps has NEVER performed in Chicago before so I was so proud to hear that the company chose Chicago as a debut destination with stops to follow at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and then Lincoln Center in New York. Second City? I think NOT! Michael Tiknis, president and CEO of the Harris, welcomed the sold out crowd, “It’s my pleasure to introduce the first performance ever of the Paris Opera Ballet in Chicago!” The Grant Park Symphony Orchestra accompanied the performance with Graff as the presenting sponsor. The Mayor commented, “It’s only fitting that the POB chose the city of Chicago as the first appearance of its North American tour. In my view, they’re picking the most American of American cities. I am committed to making Chicago a worldwide destination for arts and creativity.” Abby McCormick O’Neil, chairman of the Harris Theater’s Board of Trustees, said, “The opening night gala and performance support the ongoing mission of the Harris. Proceeds from this event will benefit its programs.” (One of their programs, Access Tickets, donated 200 free tickets to students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend.) Before the performance, Mayor Emanuel – a former dancer himself – greeted students from the Chicago High School for the Arts along with POB dancers and Artistic Director Brigitte Lefevre. Caryn and King Harris and Alexandra and John Nichols were presenting sponsors and chairs. Vice chairs included Francie Comer, Stephanie and John Harris, Mellody Hobson and George Lucas, Lindy and Michael Keiser, Anne and J. Christopher Reyes, Linda Johnson Rice and Shirley and Patrick Ryan. Sponsors for this event included Abby McCormick O’Neil and D. Carroll Joynes, Chauncey and Marion McCormick (Foundation), Hyatt Regency Chicago, Northern Trust and United Airlines. The post performance dinner was held in an elegant tent adjacent to the theater in Millennium Park. Two million was raised on this night to support Harris programming. Guests seen in the crowd included Joan Harris, Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra (Chairman of Millennium Park, Inc.), Sheila O’Grady and Jean-Luc Decaux, Francie Comer, Amelia and Alejandro Silva, Ken Shanoff, Chris Long, Marilyn Vitale, Pam Crutchfield, Phil Lumpkin, Ken Shanoff and Steve Young, Desiree Rogers, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sonya Jackson, Jacqueline and Leon Kinloch, Julie Latsko, Martha Melman, Sonya Jackson, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson and Mary and Tim Smithe among many others. (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina and Bob Carl…click here for more pics!)

Mark your calendars now for Glamourcon 53, a lively celebration and marketplace of the glamour arts that features dozens of Playboy Playmates from FIVE decades as well as many other past and present glamour and pin-up models. Vendors sell trading cards, autographs, catalogs, magazines, books, photos, original pin up art, videos and so much more. This year, attendees will get a rare opportunity to meet two “legends” of Playboy: former photo directors Gary Cole and Jeff Cohen. For all of you budding glamour photogs, this is a great opportunity to have your photos and portfolios critiqued by the experts! They will also be orchestrating a first time EVER Playmate Photo Special! A photography session will be offered with Playmates Beth Williams (Miss August 2012) and Shelby Chesnes (Miss July 2012), who are both appearing in Playboy’s July/August double issue which will be on newsstands this month. Sign up to attend a Saturday night VIP party at the Joynt (located at 650 N. Dearborn) with Playmates, Special Edition Models and other Playboy models! Glamourcon presents a great opportunity to meet your favorite vintage and contemporary pin-up stars and get their autographs. I love this event and especially love seeing my fellow Playmates at this special Glamourcon Reunion…hope to see you at Crowne Plaza O'Hare on August 4th and 5th! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

A special shout out and congrats to beautiful fashion designer, Azeeza Kahn! She has just been nominated for the Rising Star Award by the Fashion Group International! Fingers crossed, Azeeza! Ikram, are you watching??!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday that included good food, friends and fun! I will be taking the next week off and will see you again on July 16th!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you missed the Summer Lovin’ party at the MCA co-hosted by Chicago magazine and the Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, check out all the fun here from Watch312.com!!!

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D41652%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12042802.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. RECEIVES GENE SISKEL RENAISSANCE AWARD

When I was asked to be a part of the Gala Committee for this year’s Gene Siskel Film Center tribute, I was beyond honored but when I found out it would be “An Evening with Robert Downey, Jr.” I lost my mind! I have loved and admired RDJ for as long as I can remember as well as the rest of his zillions of fans. We all felt badly for his past addictions and are now so thrilled he has overcome them in such an amazing way. His wife Susan is to be thanked as well as his desire to begin anew. Robert was born in NY into an acting family: His father, Robert Downey, Sr., is a well known actor, writer, producer, cinematographer and director and his mother, Elsie, is also an actress. He appeared in many of his father’s earlier films. RDJ married local Schaumburg girl, Susan Levin, in August 2005. They had met in 2003 on the set of “Gothika” but Susan was leery of his past history; nonetheless, their relationship continued after the film and he proposed on the eve of her 30th birthday and Billy Joel performed at their wedding in upstate NY. RDJ’s filmography boasts dozens of critically-acclaimed films, including such recent hits as “Sherlock Holmes,” “Iron Man,” “Iron Man 2,” “The Soloist,” “Charlie Bartlett,” “Zodiac,” “A Scanner Darkly,” “Fur” and “Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang.” He has worked with a virtual who’s who of Hollywood’s biggest talents including directors Robert Altman (who told him, “Whatever you do tonight, don’t memorize your lines.”), Richard Attenborough (who got RDJ’s competitive juices flowing for the movie “Chaplin” by holding up a pic of Tom Cruise and saying, “Isn’t this an uncanny resemblance to Chaplin?”), Oliver Stone, George Clooney, Guy Ritchie, Jodie Foster (who RDJ says was one of his biggest supporters during his tough times), Jude Law, Halle Berry, Michael Douglas, Jamie Foxx (who appeared on video at the event and told RDJ, “You are Van Gogh. May you keep your brushes dipped and keep creating the wonderful shades of Downey.”), Nicole Kidman, Winona Ryder, Woody Harrelson and Ben Stiller (who cast RDJ in his Oscar-nominated role in “Tropic Thunder”). Stiller had this to say about Downey after his “Iron Man” performance: “Yes, Downey is Iron Man but he really is Actor Man. In the realm where box office is irrelevant and talent is king, the realm that actually means something, he has always ruled. And finally this summer, he gets to have his cake and let us eat him up all the way to the multiplex, where his mastery is in full effect.” He is an actor’s actor and all the world adores him and rightfully so. Even though I missed the Gala Committee’s photo op with Robert before the event began, I still got a chance to meet him. I told him about my missed opportunity and he put his arm around me, asked me my name and pointed me toward a camera. We took not one, but two pics! I was in awe and beyond delighted. He was busy as a bee, but still took this moment to make a fan feel very special. And he would’ve taken questions from the audience all night long. This is the kind of guy he is…maybe too nice which is where his wife Susan steps in to protect him. They are a perfect match and earlier this month, they formed their own production company, Team Downey. Their first project will be the Steve McQueen script “Yucatan,” which is a heist film. Robert was interviewed for this evening at the Ritz by another well-known director, Todd Phillips, who has worked with some of Hollywood’s biggest comedic actors, writing and directing films like “Old School,” “Starsky and Hutch,” “School for Scoundrels” and, most recently, “The Hangover.” (Phillips was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on “Borat.”) During the interview, Downey said there have been two films he had to screen test for – “Chaplin” and “Iron Man” – and that he prepared the hardest for “Chaplin” by working on it every day for nine months to a year. Physically, “Iron Man” was the hardest film and he went into full health mode working on this film, drinking vitamin shakes and doing everything in his power to make himself appear as physically fit as the part called for. When asked how he decides what films to make he said, “Ultimately, it’s an intuitive decision. And for the last one, Susan said, “If you don’t make this film, we can’t buy this property” which had the crowd in stitches. He is so honest in his demeanor, likeable and just plain cute that you want to take him under your wing and keep him from harm. Susan is a lucky woman! Phillips told Downey that his performances never seemed to be affected by his past addictions and asked how this was possible. Downey replied, “Simply put, it’s love of the game and I try to respect it. Also, having a gargantuan hangover and a camera in your face is not pretty. It’s a privilege and you kind of just show up and do it.” When asked who he admires most as an actor, he joked laughingly, “No one comes to mind.” His next film which was directed by Phillips, is “Due Date” which will be out in the fall. We saw a sneak peek of the film with RDJ, Jamie Foxx and Zach Galifianakis and it looked like it will be very funny. It was a night to remember and I know everyone there will never forget seeing this incredible actor up close and personal. Congratulations to Gala co-chairs Ellen Sandor and Bill Marcus. Ellen’s formidable connections brought Downey to Chicago. Flying in during a thunderst
orm when he had wanted to take a later flight, RDJ jokingly commented that he was terrified, but he realized that “Jewish mother-in-law trumps Hollywood star.” Co-chair Bill Marcus gamely wore an Iron Man helmet to auction off the live auction packages. The L.A. Confidential Package sold for $8,500 and included two first class tickets on American Airlines to attend the premiere of “Due Date,” four tickets to “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” an exclusive preview party at the Museum of Contemporary Art and a stay at the Four Seasons. John McMahan won the Chicago raffle which, surprisingly, included a dinner in his own home…too funny! The Gala Committee included Michelle Cucchiaro, Eda Davidman, Melissa Sage Fadim, Marsha Goldstein, David Hundley, Marlene Iglitzen (Siskel), Lynn McMahan and moi but it took a village of dedicated Board Members and a crack PR Agency (Carol Fox and Associates) to put it over the top. A special shout-out to the amazing Joel Mangers for his tireless work on this party, too! The event was a sell-out and the crowd came dressed to impress. Even the goody bags were special and included DVDs of “Sherlock Holmes!” There was a cocktail reception and then the crowd moved into the low lit, intimate ballroom for dinner (each course was named after a movie Robert had done and were all delicious), the Q & A and the presentation of the much- deserved Renaissance Award to Robert who even had his own fan club there who had travelled from Montana, Ohio, California and Arizona just to see him. They came bearing gifts and Joyce Shroder even had a tie with her that RDJ had worn during an “Ally McBeal” episode that she had bought on eBay for $400. (He had signed it for her previously.) This event benefitted the Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago which presents cutting-edge programs, independent and international cinema, premieres, retrospectives and classic films. The Center attracts an audience of more than 80,000 annually. For more info, please visit www.siskelfilmcenter.org. I will see you all in line for tickets to “Due Date” in the fall! Robert, we love you! (Additional pics by Caitlin Saville…click here to see more!)

Congrats to my fellow “Bold & Beautiful” women selected by Kohler and Chicago magazine recently! Five local women were chosen for this honor and they include Catie Keogh (host and executive producer “24/7 Chicago” on NBC 5), Linda Novick O’Keefe (Executive Director for Common Threads), Laura Schwartz (author of “Eat, Drink and Succeed” and founder and principal of White House Strategies and international television commentator) and Mindy Segal (chef and owner of Hot Chocolate). There will be a private party at The Kohler Store at the Merchandise Mart on Wednesday, July 21st to celebrate. Congrats to my deserving girlfriends!!! :)

Now here is my latest find! I burn candles, all day, everyday. I love to have fresh scents in the house and, let’s face it, with two little dogs running around, this isn’t always easy to do. I recently read about someone’s list of favorite things in some magazine. I know, I know I should at least be able to share the person’s name but I tore the house apart looking for said magazine and it’s gone. But, rest assured, it was someone whose comments I respected or else I wouldn’t have ordered two Cire Trudon candles in the Roi Soleil scent. I was immediately intrigued by the description of the scent: “Fragrance of the Mirror Gallery and the vast wooden floor of the Chateau de Versailles, vapours of wax, candelabras and palace. This kingly and solar perfume blends a green and wooded wake of coniferous trees to the sumptuous dizziness of incense with a light ray of citrus.” Heady stuff, right? Well, I thought if this description is half right, I will be thrilled. I remember the Hall of Mirrors and the rich scent of wood and highly polished antiques and it was intoxicating. I cannot believe these candles smell EXACTLY the same! They are a beautiful mix of French oak, pine and citrus and are created by possibly the oldest candle maker and wax manufacturer in the world, Cire Trudon. Claude Trudon began Wax Trudo in 1643 at 12 Rue du Temple in Paris and initially created candles for the many churches of Paris. Louis XIV, XVI and Marie Antoinette all burned Cire Trudon candles. Napoleon even used the candles for lighting and ceremonies. The Trudon candles have fragrances that are based on the landmarks and history of France. I know they were available at Barney’s in NY but here is a link to order. I’m sure the other scents are terrific too and they are made from 100-percent vegetable wax with pure cotton wicks for the cleanest burn. I can’t wait to try all of them! http://www.ciretrudon.com/

This is it for now! I will be serving on the front lines of the Riviera to bring back a report for Candid Candace on July 14th. Until then, I hope your summer is all you hope it to be!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t forget to pop into Minibar at 3341 N. Halsted on Thursday, July 22nd to wish everyone’s favorite hotel manager, Shaun Rajah, a wonderful 30th birthday! The party itself is invitation only but feel free to stop by The Drake at any time or by Minibar after 10 p.m. to celebrate!