Tag Archives: Jan Flanagan

May 22, 2013 · 1:27 pm

CHICAGO’S GREAT “GREAT GATSBY” PARTIES!

…PLUS SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE’S “THE WALK” (NEW WATCH312 VIDEO!); PLAYBOY’S PLAYMATE OF THE YEAR PARTY (VIDEO!); FLEUROTICA 2013 (VIDEO!); LYNNE TAKES NEW YORK; ZOO BALL IS “WILD AT HEART”; JOFFREY AUXILIARY BOARD’S MASQUERADE BALL; A SPECIAL MAY BIRTHDAY PARTY; ELLEN BITCHES ABOUT FITCH AND SO MUCH MORE!

Maxim’s was the place to be on May 6th when Warner Brothers, Margaret O’Connor (MarCon Communications), Dr. Michael O’Meara and ReachMail hosted one of the hottest Gatsby parties in town. With Gatsby fever raging for months, this
invitation was coveted among the see-and-be-seen crowd and besides being a blockbuster film, Margaret had another reason for producing this event: Being a fellow Aussie like director Baz Luhrmann, she was keen to present this movie since most of the filming takes place in her native
Australia! The invitation requested guests dress in Gatsby attire with the added enticement of prizes for the most Gatsby-esque. (And it didn’t take much to encourage attendees to channel their best “Daisy” and “Jay” attire either!) Before the start of the film, Deputy Consul General of Australia in Chicago Lorenzo Strano
said he hoped the beautiful scenery would entice everyone to visit Australia. Next, Bill Zwecker and Chaz Ebert introduced the film. Chaz said “The Great Gatsby” was a favorite film and book of her late husband Roger’s and he had been eagerly awaiting the film and he
was “so jazzed” to see Baz Luhrmann’s version. She added that the last page of the book had been recited at their wedding. Bill said that he, too, was looking forward to Baz’s interpretation and that he had run into Mia Farrow (who played the part of
Daisy Buchanan in the 1974 version) in Connecticut a couple weeks earlier. After the film, guests headed over to Maxim’s, located in Chicago’s Gold Coast and once the hot spot for celebrities and the posh set back in its heyday. With its
striking plush red velvet and mahogany décor, Maxim’s was the perfect backdrop for this lavish Gatsby-themed party. At the entrance, under the canopied walkway, a blue 1931 Ford Phaeton replica, belonging to Mamie Walton and given to her at Maxim’s on her 50th birthday, was
parked alongside a lemon yellow 1947 Lincoln convertible (somewhat reminiscent of Jay Gatsby’s yellow Rolls Royce). Having their photos taken with the cars were men of style Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy, Paul Iacono and William Holdeman, all wearing pastel suits and looking every bit the part of a 1920’s GQ fashion spread. Models dressed in ’20s attire draped themselves languorously beside the
classic cars in a fashion installation created by Kate Johnson Artistry. Others channeling Gatsby style included Mamie Walton, Margey Teller, Dr. Kathleen Albrecht, Laurie Davis, Jan Melk, Joan Colmar, Hazel Barr and couples John
Donohue & Julianne Glatz, Katie and Jason Mclenaghan, Kevin & Janine Larson and Stanley Paul & niece Joanie Legittino. Inside, music from the Stanley Paul 1920’s Theatre Collection mixed in with Jay-Z’s film soundtrack played while Gatsby-style attired guests table-hopped and chatted about Luhrmann’s dazzling 3-D
epic which captured the glamour, opulence and indulgent lifestyle of the era. Prosecco, served in keepsake flutes embossed with the Gatsby logo, flowed while servers wearing black flapper fringed dresses and sequined headpieces circulated with St. Claire vodka cocktails and
hors d’oeuvres. Models dressed in the theme of the night took pictures with guests throughout the evening and attendees took home gift bags filled with items from the sponsors that included everything from Warner Brothers’ water bottles and martini shakers
to iPad and iPhone covers and screen wipes. Prizes for “Best Gatsby Attire” included Gatsby beach bags, the book, soundtrack and more. For the film’s official opening at the Cannes Film Festival on
May 15th, there was a glittering red carpet premier. Director Luhrmann found it only fitting to premier the film first in Cannes since F. Scott Fitzgerald’s first draft of “The Great Gatsby” was completed on the French Riviera. (An extravagant
Australian premier is set for May 22nd.) Others guests seen in the crowd included Jacqui O’Neil, Dr. Michael O’Meara, Chicago Bear Henry Melton, former Bear James “Big Cat” Williams, Greg & Lily Gulik, Mary Sleger & John Murphy, Steve Traxler, Paul Iacono, Jesus Salgueiro, Sean Eshaghy, JP
Anderson, Diane Primo, Kelli Zink, Melissa & Brian Babcock, Toni Canada, Johanna Cook, Bunky Cushing, Rachel DeMarte, Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy, Susanna Negovan, Nina Mariano, Andrea Schwartz, Sherrill Bodine, Julie Darling, Amy Wimer, Debi Lily, Sheryl Dyer, Deborah Brown (soon to be
married!), Mary Ann Rose & Heinz Kern, Dr. Joaquin Brieva & Jennifer Sutton, Joey Majumdar, Andrea and Dr. Mimis Cohen, Michael Judge, Mark Roscoe and Sheila Dorman. Maxim’s backstory: This legendary hotspot opened in 1963 and quickly became the gathering spot for celebrities and Chicago’s elite. The striking décor was an exact replica of the famous
Parisian restaurant and throughout the years Maxim’s has been used in other films – there is an extended sequence in Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” and Owen Wilson and Marion Cotillard’s characters travel back in time to the Belle Époque and have dinner together at Maxim’s in Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris.” (Photos by Jon Recana and Alex Riemann.)

Tiffany & Co. jewels sparkled at the recent Chicago screening of “The Great Gatsby” when they rolled out the red carpet on May 15th to host an exclusive screening at the Gene Siskel Film Center.
More than 100 by-invite-only guests attended the 1920’s Jazz Age-themed cocktail party and movie premier with Tiffany designs taking center stage as models showcased pieces that appear in the film. Many of
the jewels are from Tiffany & Co.’s famed 2013 Blue Book Collection. Featured statement pieces from the Collection included The Savoy, a diamond and
freshwater cultured pearl headpiece with detachable brooch and a brilliant necklace featuring a 49.59 carat emerald-cut aquamarine. A jazz quartet set the stage for the event while guests sipped signature cocktails, including “The Daisy” and “Red Berry Mint Julep.” Passed hors d’oeuvres
included griddled buckwheat blinis with American sturgeon caviar presented by Blue Plate Catering. As the lights dimmed, guests were handed boxes of truffle salted and caramel drizzled popcorn to enjoy while they watched the fabulous show! Congrats to Tiffany’s for making a wonderful movie even more visually delightful with your awesome bling! 🙂 (Photos by Mila Samokhina…see more pics here!)

It was a night filled with fashion…but not the kind you are used to seeing on a runway: No my friend, this was the 79th annual School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s (SAIC) “The Walk,”
arguably the most creative and innovative fashion show of its kind in the country! More than 90 design students from SAIC filled the 90-foot runway with the most awe-inspiring, futuristic designs I’ve ever seen. Everything from clear plastic blazers to headgear resembling something Princess Leia would wear, it was a head-spinning evening for sure in
Millennium Park on May 3rd! The Legend of Fashion honor went to sisters Laura and Kate Mulleavy, award-
winning designers/creators of the Rodarte line which they founded in 2005. Their beautiful fashions are worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Kiera Knightly, Cate Blanchett, Natalie Portman, Kirsten Dunst, Chloe Sevigny, Tilda Swinton, Dakota Fanning,
Scarlett Johansson and Reese Witherspoon to name a few and The New Yorker calls the sisters “the most celebrated American designers working today.” Philanthropist Melissa Sage Fadim was honored with the first ever
Heart of Fashion award. Even though the runway fashions were to-die-for, the 500+ attendees could’ve taken a turn on their own runways! I always love this event because the fashions are usually as innovative on the guests as they are on the models!
This year’s stand-outs included Ellen Sandor (who looked chic wearing a student-designed cape), Azeeza Kahn (who looks great in anything all the time), Laura Kofoid (whose outfit was colorfully creative), Quintin Primo III (who was wearing a Mick Jagger-inspired jacket) and Tommy Walton (a “Check, Please!” host contender who
always makes a fashion statement). Other notables included Creatures of the Wind’s Shane Gabier, Chris Peters and Michael Walls, Todd and Sylvie Ricketts, Ikram and Josh Goldman, Nina Ricci artistic director Peter Copping,
AJ Johnson, Kim and David DeJesus, Elle magazine’s Anne Slowey, Paper magazine’s editorial director Mickey Boardman, designer Maria Pinto, Ebony’s editor-in-chief Amy Dubois Barnett, and Bill Kurtis and Donna
LaPietra. The evening raised $400,000 for SAIC – great to see the future of fashion is alive and well in Chicago with the students of SAIC! (To see ALL pics by Sara Condo and Chasitie Neal, please click here!)

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Congrats to 25-year-old Raquel Pomplun for winning the Playboy Playmate of the Year title as the first Mexican-American centerfold! Fellow Playmate Dianne Chandler attended this year’s PMOY party at
the Mansion in LA on May 16th and shared the story with me: For many of the luncheon guests, the day began with a trolley ride from UCLA’s parking lot. This is usually the case with Hef’s parties since those fine folks in Holmby Hills frown
on having cars parked on their multi-million dollar manicured lawns. Dianne says she was helped from the trolley by an exceptionally handsome Latino man whose muscles sent her into a temporary swoon. The luncheon was
held on the front lawn under a lavishly decorated tent in shades of Playmate pink and white. Chandeliers were twinkling and the day was a typical gorgeous, sunny California dream. One of the drinks offered was a non-alcoholic cucumber/water concoction (How I miss the old days…I
don’t recall any non-alcoholic drinks even offered in the ‘70s!) Dianne insists it was “delightfully refreshing” so I’ll have to take her word on this. Cooper Hefner spoke first and introduced his dad, who was dapper in a white
suit and seated with his lovely new wife Crystal Harris. (Hef recently gifted Crystal with a $4-million home on Sunset Strip.) He introduced Raquel, noting that she was chosen by the magazine’s readers, editors, photographers and
the PR department of Playboy. He presented her with a check for $100K and a year’s lease on a red Jaguar F-Style convertible. (It’s good to be PMOY these days: The checks have increased tenfold since the
days when I was a PM!) Raquel, a biochemistry major and a classically trained ballerina, had a 103-degree temperature when she shot her pics. If this layout was Raquel on a “bad day,” I can’t imagine what her photos would’ve
looked like had she been feeling well! Married at age 22 to Alejandro Pomplun, she submitted her photos via Playboy’s website with her husband’s blessing. She said posing nude “made me more confident and less obsessive about little things. I learned to appreciate my body a
little bit more. Not a little bit more. I appreciate it, period.” At the end of the day, a group photo photo was arranged by handsome and beloved Playmate promotions director, James Gonis. There were Playmates in attendance from all generations and Dianne was thrilled that Hef
remembered her from her centerfold days. (They were both alums of the University of Illinois.) All past Playmates are invited to Hef’s parties and it’s always a thrill to connect with old friends. Dianne was one of
the few Playmates who was also a Playboy Bunny: A hometown girl from Berwyn who now lives in Atlanta, she was September 1966 Playmate. Her gatefold was shot by the legendary lensman Pompeo Posar (who also shot Patti McGuire’s beautiful layouts).
Congrats to Raquel and I’m not surprised about Hef's memory: He might be growing older but he always remembers the ladies who brought him to the party! The wonderful video below was created by fellow Playmate Miss May 2010 Kassie Logsdon, who captured the afternoon perfectly!

If you’re in New York City on July 2nd, don’t miss the Big Apple debut of Chicago’s very own Diva Lynne Jordan! This soulful chanteuse will bring her Nina Simone show to City Winery on July 2nd. Located deep in the heart of SoHo, this gorgeous 300-seat venue is just the place for our girl to go BIG! Please share the news with your friends and buy your tickets now!! ($15 Music Only or upgrade to the five wine pairing, $30 admission)

The Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo recently held a Preview Party at Paul Stuart to kick-off this year’s festivities for Zoo Ball 2013: Wild at Heart. The cocktail party was hosted by dapper Paul Kelly (regional manager of Paul Stuart) at the chic Paul Stuart Oak Street location. Guests of honor included Zoo Ball co-chairs Charlotte Monhart, Vasiliki Weiden and Jennifer Caruso and
Women’s Board president Peggy Swift White. Mark Walter (CEO of Guggenheim Partners and presenting sponsor of Zoo Ball 2013) and his wife Kimbra were also in attendance alongside Lincoln Park Zoo’s president & CEO Kevin Bell. Guests enjoyed small bites courtesy
of Boutique Bites paired with Maker’s Mark cocktails and Goose Island craft beer while perusing Paul Stuart’s expansive inventory and taking in the musical styling of jazz artist Kyle Asche. The buttoned-up preview party at Paul Stuart is just a little taste of what to come at Zoo Ball 2013’s annual affair on July 12th so mark your calendars now! (For tickets and more info, please visit www.lpzooball.org.)

Fleurotica 2013 will be presented at the Museum of Contemporary Art on June 12th. Co-chaired by Deirdre Koldyke, Shauna Montgomery and Whitney Lasky this flower-filled fashion show will also include a champagne reception with small bites. The show is a unique haute couture fashion extravaganza with all of the runway designs created from a variety of flowers and greenery. (To see highlights from last year’s show, please see my Watch312 video below.) A portion of proceeds will benefit Garfield Park Conservatory’s educational programs. (For tickets – beginning at $250 – please click here!)

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The Joffrey Ballet’s Auxiliary Board is hosting an unforgettable night filled with mystery and intrigue at its inaugural Joffrey Blue Masquerade Ball on June14th. The event will be located at the Joffrey Tower at 10 E. Randolph from 8 p.m. until midnight. Partygoers are encouraged to wear their favorite masks and will be treated to complimentary cocktails, delicious bites from Chicago’s top restaurants, an exciting raffle and the hot sounds of DJ Madrid! I hope you’ll join me for this exciting night benefitting The Joffrey Ballet co-chaired by John Walcher, Camille Britton and Terrence Chapell. To purchase tickets or for more info, please visit www.joffrey.org/blue. (Individual tickets are $85.)

Thanks to the Palmer House Hilton for including me as a member of its “Iron Chef” competition on May 7th. I partnered with PH Catering Director David Brandt for an event that put me clearly out of my
comfort zone! Executive Chef Stephen Henry conducted the competition between the four teams. A long table was laid out with every kind of kitchen goody imaginable and each team had a few seconds to grab whatever ingredients they thought
they would need to add to the “secret ingredient,” which turned out to be ground beef. My team quickly whipped up delicious blue cheese mini-burgers sautéed with mushrooms and onions. In the end
(and to our surprise), the team of judges selected our team as the winners! I love this hotel and it was thrilling to take a peek behind the scenes into its gorgeous, massive kitchen area and sample its always-delicious cuisine!!
Also, don’t miss longtime Palmer House PR director Ken Price’s exciting historical presentations about this legendary hotel: He knows everything there is to know about the PH and shares it with guests in thrilling detail! (For more info about the Palmer House and Ken’s lectures, please click here!)

And last but not least, a big Happy Birthday shout-out to glam girlfriends Lynn McMahan, Kristina McGrath and Korinna Isselhardt! I loved feting these beautiful-
inside-and-out friends at one of our fav restaurants: RL. Happy guests included Nina Mariano, Michaela Parrillo, Jan Flanagan, Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, Tracy Scurto and Patty Nalepa. Happy, happy birthday lovely ladies! (View more pics here!)

That’s it for this week! So happy the weather is finally cooperating for all of our outdoor activities! Until next time, have fun, use sunscreen and happy grilling!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I loved this video from the “Ellen Degeneres Show” about the Abercrombie & Fitch controversy. Hope it makes you smile, too!

THE JOFFREY BALLET’S FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER: COUTURE & COCKTAILS!

…PLUS RENAISSANCE SOCIETY GALA, RANDE GERBER’S RUM PARTY, FACING HISTORY & OURSELVES EXHIBITION, ABE THOMPSON’S “LEGENDARY” HONOR, PAUL STUART’S COOL BRAND AMBASSADORS, A CUBAN DANCE OPPORTUNITY, LUXURY GARAGE SALE, WATCH312.COM RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE DOC, PAWS CHICAGO’S BIG HOWL-O-WEEN, MY FAV PUMPKIN PATCH AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails, now in its seventh year, is one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year. This year, glamour queens Kristina McGrath and Sonya Jackson co-chaired the event that attracted more than 500 trendsetters. This party has always been known for its exciting venues and, this year, the new McGrath Acura dealership was the place to be! With more than 50,000 sq. feet of dramatic space, guests were filled with excitement and anticipation as they walked the red carpet leading into the party. Ivan Carlson’s décor set the tone with flashing pink strobe lights while chic bars filled with Skinnygirl cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres from Stefani Catering were major crowd pleasers. A vintage couture auction presented by LUXURY GARAGE SALE had partygoers oohing, ahhing and bidding. At 7:30 p.m., white curtains parted to reveal another gorgeous space filled with a huge runway and row upon row of Lucite chairs. Bartenders served the seated VIP guests who included “Chicagolicious” star AJ Johnson, Jan Flanagan, Lynn and John McMahan, Jacqueline and Leon Kinloch, Michaela Parrillo, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Toni and Rick Canada, Daniel DeVos and designer/wife Pamella Roland DeVos, Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro and Mike McGrath among others. To open the fashion show, co-chairs Kristina and Sonya roared into the space in a $380,000 cherry red Lexus LFA. After inviting Leon Kinloch and orchestra leader turned auctioneer David Rothstein to the stage, the quartet began the live auction portion of the night. Packages included exotic trips on United Airlines with hotel stays at the Langham Hotel Group among other exciting offerings. After the live auction, more donations were raised with a “runway strut,” where guests could take a turn on the runway for varying amounts – there were some pretty fancy moves up there and it was a very clever idea for additional fundraising. And then, the main event: Pamella Roland’s Spring 2013 collection presented by Neiman Marcus! I will tell you that I wanted almost every single thing I saw on that runway. From simple daytime dresses to elegant, entrance-making gowns, Pamella’s creations had the crowd cheering and clapping in appreciation. When I interviewed her for Watch312.com, she told me her inspiration was the minimalistic paintings by Ellsworth Kelly…and indeed, her black-and-white theme made a dramatic yet elegant statement. The peplum dresses were gorgeous enough on their own as the models glided down the runway but when they turned and the crowd saw that the entire backs were sheer, it made everyone moan. At the end of the show, when Pamella made her triumphant runway walk, a standing ovation rattled the walls. Guests were then shuttled to another magnificent room for the post-show reception while this space was transformed into a dance floor. The McGrath Acura space, with its soaring ceilings and exquisite artwork, could be a museum if it wasn’t an uber successful dealership. White leather furniture was arranged for special VIP seating that included darling pillows emblazoned with McGrath Acura and champagne waiting patiently in elegant containers. Beginning at 9 p.m., the dance party was kicked off by the world-famous Joffrey dancers led by Mauro Villanueva and David Gombert, April Daley and Miguel Blanco, Victoria Jaiani and Temur Suluashvili, Derrick Agnoletti, Fabrice Calmels, Erica Lynette Edwards, Dylan Guiterrez and Tian Shuai among others. Food trucks were stationed in the entrance space and included delicious mac and cheese from Southern Mac & Cheese, Chef Leah’s perfect pancakes from Babycakes, Two Italians' delicious meatballs and pizza, Mexican fare from La Adelita and vegan, dairy-free offerings from Ste Martaen. No one wanted this exciting night to end at this glorious new venue on the river but sadly, we will all have to wait till next year to find out what new adventure C & C takes us on! Congrats to Sonya and Kristina and the Joffrey on this fun-filled night that rai
sed more than $275K for Joffrey programming and outreach. This event has grown exponentially in size since its inception in 2007 with past featured designers including David Meister, Carmen Marc Valvo, Maria Pinto, Temperley London and Escada. A special thanks to this year’s sponsors United Airlines, McGrath Imports, Pamella Roland, Neiman Marcus, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Laura Mercier, Beam Global Spirits & Wine (love Tom Strehle!), Skinnygirl, Constellation Brands, Inc., Exelon, The Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation and the beautiful sweet tables from Sugar Chic Designs! (To see ALL party pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here!)

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The Renaissance Society welcomed more than 340 guests, including prominent business leaders, curators and artists for its 2012 Benefit Gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on Saturday, September 8th. The event grossed more than $677,000 in support of The Renaissance Society’s 2012-2013 exhibition season and celebrated director Susanne Ghez’s 40th year at this internationally-renowned non-collecting museum of contemporary art. Guests enjoyed an evening that began with a cocktail reception and silent art auction featuring pieces by past Renaissance Society artists, alongside a special preview of a limited edition photo portfolio curated by guest of honor Susanne Ghez in celebration of her tenure as director of The Renaissance Society. During a lavish dinner by Radisson Blu Catering paired with wines from Todd Hess/H2Vino, guests were treated to the visually stunning décor and table arrangements of Paul Buenvenida and Gary Heiferman. A special tribute to Ghez included remarks from Renaissance Society Board of Directors President Greg Cameron, who warmly congratulated her on 40 years of inspiring leadership and generosity of spirit in supporting artists, noting the profound impact Ghez has had in creating one of the world’s most important contemporary art exhibition venues. The evening concluded with a live auction of cutting-edge art by Matt Saunders, Kara Walker and Kerry James Marshall and a luxury trip to a private villa in the Mexican Riviera. The 2012 Benefit Gala Chair was Deirdre McBreen, Executive Vice President of Corporate Secretary and Principal at Peter J. McBreen & Associates. Distinguished guests at the event included Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago Director Madeleine Grynsztejn and curators Naomi Beckwith and Michael Darling, Art Institute of Chicago director Douglas Druick and curators Peter Zegers, James Rondeau, Matt Witkovsky and Lisa Dorin, Columbia College Museum of Contemporary Photography director Natasha Egan, darling City of Chicago Cultural Affairs commissioner Michelle Boone, Northwestern University Block Museum director Lisa Corrin, Chicago Humanities Festival artistic director Matti Bunzl, Santa Monica Museum of Art director Elsa Longhauser, Terra Foundation director Elizabeth Glassman, Richard Wright of Wright Auction, Tang Museum curator Ian Berry, Arts Club director Janine Mileaf, Jane Addams Hull House Museum director Lisa Lee, and EXPO CHICAGO president/director Tony Karman. (Photos by Erin Drewitz.)

On the heels of successful launches in LA, NY, Miami and Dallas, creator Rande Gerber (husband of gorgeous supermodel Cindy Crawford) was joined by family and friends in Chicago recently to celebrate the launch of Caliche Rum, a rum six generations in the making and exclusively from the Serrallés Family Distillery, the birthplace of premium Puerto Rican rum. Since launching in March 2012, Caliche Rum has been very well received among consumers and trade alike being honored with some of the highest rated reviews in the industry. Congrats Rande and bring Cindy back home! 🙂

The Chicago office of international educational nonprofit Facing History and Ourselves welcomed Mayor Rahm Emanuel along with more than 200 partners, donors and supporters of its acclaimed multimedia exhibition Choosing to Participate for a private party on Monday, September 24th in the Winter Garden of the Chicago Public Library’s Harold Washington Library Center. Guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and guided tours of the exhibition (which is on display at the Harold Washington Library Center now through November 11th). In addition to Mayor Emanuel and his wife, Amy Rule, other distinguished guests included event emcee and Emmy Award-winning ABC 7 News co-anchor Cheryl Burton, Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard, Choosing to Participate co-chair and Aon president and CEO Greg Case, Walmart Chicagoland Market manager Reginald Reese, Facing History co-founder and Klarman Family executive director Margot Stern Strom, Facing History Chicago co-founder Judy Wise, Loop Capital Markets co-founder and president Albert R. Grace, Jr., Facing History Chicago Advisory Board chairman Jill Garling and her husband Tom Wilson (Allstate Chairman, President and CEO), Facing History Chicago director Bonnie Oberman and her husband Marty Oberman (former 43rd Ward Alderman and private practice lawyer) and Choosing to Participate Upstander honorees Mazher Ahmed, Henry Henderson, Nikki Jarvis and Tony Wasilewski. Facing History’s Choosing to Participate is a powerful multimedia exhibition examining the impact and history of bigotry and injustice that features five installations telling stories in the first-person about people and communities that have experienced racism and injustice, and how courage and compassion are necessary to protect democracy. The two local components of the exhibition are Upstanders: Portraits of Courage, featuring photographs and narratives celebrating 12 individuals and groups making a difference in Chicago and pARTicipation: Young Artists Speak Up, a display of original artwork from Chicagoland students in grades 7 – 12 that illustrates the importance of choices we make in our daily lives. For more information, please visit www.choosingtoparticipate.org. Facing History and Ourselves is an international educational and professional development organization whose mission is to engage students of diverse backgrounds in an examination of racism, prejudice and anti-Semitism in order to promote the development of a more humane and informed citizenry. For more information, visit facinghistory.org. (Photos by Bob Carl.)

Longtime Chicago-based media exec Abe Thompson accepted the Living Legends Award from the Black United Fund of Illinois (BUFI) during their 12th Annual Living Legends/Passing the Torch© recently at the Parkway Ballroom. The Living Legends event was conceived by BUFI as a way to encourage generational continuity in civil rights, business and the professions while sharing the collective skills, ideas and strategies with a new generation of leaders. Thompson passed the torch to the students of Kennedy-King College. Huge congrats to a beloved Chicago icon!

Congrats to the Joffrey Ballet’s Christopher Clinton Conway and Park 52’s Marc Brooks on being named the Fall 2012 Chicago Brand Ambassadors for Paul Stuart and its Phineas Cole Collection! They couldn’t have picked more perfect candidates for this honor than Christopher and Marc, whose chic style is always inspiring and uniquely their own. Since 1938, Paul Stuart has been a leading arbiter of taste, style and fashion for luxury menswear in the U.S. The store has dressed world leaders, dignitaries, celebrities and titans of business for over 70 years. In the fall of 2007, Paul Stuart launched Phineas Cole, the first new brand in the company’s history. Its slimmer, more contemporary silhouette is perfectly suited for our town’s best dressed guys! Congrats CCC and MB – they are very lucky to have you in their beautiful new brand! Join them on Thursday, October 18th, for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to celebrate this new line from 6 to 8 p.m. at 107 E. Oak St. RSVP@Skirtpr.com.

Dance devotee Cheryl Tama Oblander is helping plan a major ballet festival in Havana, Cuba, scheduled for October 27th through November 4th (leaving from Miami). Cheryl has been named as the representative for the Center for Cuban Studies and is organizing an amazing itinerary that includes eight nights, welcome and farewell dinners, motor coach tours, exclusive museum passes, five festival performances and so much more! The trip is limited to 25 to 30 guests so email interplanner@comcast.net or visit www.festivalballethabana.cult.cu/ for more info!

I was so honored to have been asked by LUXURY GARAGE SALE to sift through their fabulous fashions and pick my top five! It was no easy task with pages upon pages of beautiful couture offerings but it was a very fun challenge that I happily accepted. Check out my choices and see what you think…and then check out YOURS here! LUXURY GARAGE SALE – an upscale consignment service that specializes in selling new and gently-used contemporary, designer and vintage clothing and accessories – was co-founded by partners Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal. Childhood friends, Brielle and Lindsay always had a love of collecting beginning with stickers and erasers and evolving to shoes and handbags. Over the years, however, their assorted collections soon overwhelmed their available storage space. Utilizing their backgrounds in fashion and sales, Brielle and Lindsay began selling their unwanted items and after realizing that their friends had the same predicament as well, a light flashed and voila – LUXURY GARAGE SALE was born! Happy Hunting!

Who wouldn’t like to party with Nate Berkus!!??? Join handsome and talented Nate as he celebrates the launch of his new book, “The Thing
s That Matter” on Tuesday, October 23rd from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jayson Home and Garden, located at1885 N Clybourn Ave. EVERYONE is welcome! Also, bubbly and bites are being provided by Francis Coppola Winery and Chicago's Real Kitchen. I can't wait to read your new book and see YOU, Nate – we love you!

Chicago Sister Cities International (CSCI) brings Chicagoans a festive evening of cultural discovery with From Chicago to Lahore: A Cultural Nexus. This party with our Pakistani sister city will celebrate the work of artists from Chicago and Pakistan and will highlight our similarities and the impact of arts upon people of all cultures. Free and open to the public, this event will be at the Chicago Cultural Center (located at 77 E. Randolph) on Wednesday, October 17th, from 6 to 9 p.m. The night will include an exhibition of visual arts, a brief speaking program, film screenings, musical performances, poetry readings and so much more. For more info, please click here!

Many thanks to journalist/producer extraordinaire Elysabeth Alfano for including me in her recent fabulous Huffington Post article about the Art Institute’s Rubloff paperweight collection! This one-woman dynamo is also the creator and producer for “Fear No Art” and “The Dinner Party.” To read her latest article, please click here. What a great piece…nice work, Elysabeth!

What a perfect way to spend Sweetest Day on Saturday, October 20th! Join me as I host “Here’s to Life Concert 2” presented by the very irresistible jazz soloist Zemrah at Prairie State College’s Main Auditorium, located at 202 S. Halsted St. (Chicago Heights), beginning at 7 p.m. (A VIP reception will begin at 5 p.m.) Zemrah has been performing and perfecting her musical style since childhood becoming the lead female vocalist of the duet “Fire & Ice” to being selected as the Crown Royale Female Vocalist of the Year. She continued as a solo artist opening for Nancy Wilson to now having her own inspirational concert. The night’s musical director Syd Brown will be joined by guest artist Marcus Gentry. For show information and tickets beginning at $55, please visit www.zemrahsongstress.com or call 318.936.7241. (Her first CD, “Irresistible Zemrah,” is – quite simply – irresistible!) I hope to see you there!

At Cheeky Chicago’s 4th Anniversary Party (coverage coming soon!), I had the opportunity to sample DavidsTea, which will be making its debut in Chicago on October 13th at 1645 N. Damen. Now, I’m not a big tea drinker but with flavors like Read My Lips (a black tea with chocolate, vanilla, mint and red candy lips), Pumpkin Chai (black tea with cinnamon, cloves, lemon peel, squash, carrot and caramel bits) and Banana Nut Bread (dates, currants, almonds and freeze-dried bananas), I stand up and take notice! I also love the fact that all proceeds for their Haitian-inspired KANPE Tea (a blend of hibiscus, mango, cinnamon, papaya, banana, coconut and stevia) will go toward the KANPE organization dedicated to long-term relief in Haiti. The company opened last year with two locations in NYC and plans locations this month in San Francisco. DavidsTea is also available online at www.davidstea.com. Congrats to owners David Segal and his cousin Herschel Segal and WELCOME to Chicago!

Don’t miss this new fall event benefitting PAWS Chicago! PAWS at the Park Hyatt Costume Party “Howl-O-Ween” will be coming to the Grand Salon of the Park Hyatt on Sunday, October 28th from 2 to 5 p.m. You and your family are invited to join in this spooky, fun-filled event featuring a costume contest at 3 p.m. for people and pets with celebrity judges, prizes for Best in Show for Dog, Family, Favorite Duo and Most Outrageous. Co-chaired by Nancy Timmers and Walter Brindell, the party will also include delectable desserts by pastry chef Meg Galus, pawtastic bites by executive chef Ryan LaRoche, beer, wine and Tail-tinis for adults from NoMI Lounge! There will also be a live auction, children’s face painting, photographer Greg Szoda and intuitive dog readings by Denise Zak. Tickets are $75 (adult and 13-up), $25 (6-12) and $20 per pet. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

A special thanks to all of you who voted for me as “Chicago’s Most Social Scenester” in the contest recently hosted by RackedChicago.com! I know I terrorized so many of you to vote but it worked and I won!! 🙂 So thanks for being so patient and so supportive! ALL of the nominees are dynamite social scenesters and included Amanda Puck, Billy Dec, Ryan Beschel, Lisa Frame, Cece & Melinda, Marcus Riley, Emma Arnold, Graham Kostic, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin and Monica Dimperio. I am so honored and promise to live up to this title! 🙂 Thanks so much to Jared Hatch for the nomination!

From humble desires to complete fruition, the story of the building of the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House is an inspiring one. This love-filled Watch312.com documentary will make you laugh, cry and believe that goodness and hope can overcome all obstacles. The new Ronald McDonald house near Lurie Children's opened June 26th and is located at 211 East Grand in Streeterville. Its14 stories offers 86 guest rooms and amenities to comfort families in time of need. If you would like to help support this worthwhile cause please click here. I also hope you enjoy my video that was a labor of love from beginning to end!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=490&deepLinkEmbedCode=ozaHkyNjqnLf5_u_LD3bqW7lEXvPRU0m&height=275&embedCode=ozaHkyNjqnLf5_u_LD3bqW7lEXvPRU0m&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

I hope your fall is off to a beautiful start and I hope you get a chance to celebrate with a visit to a pumpkin patch! One of our favorites is County Line Orchard, located at 200 S. County Line Road in Hobart, Indiana. I love their apple cinnamon and pumpkin donuts but they also have a corn maize, petting zoo, live band performances and, of course, a pumpkin patch! Their country store offers fresh jam, homemade pies, kettle corn and lots of other tasty treats. A perfect way to enjoy the change of seasons!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. My friend Rhonda Sanderson recently shared a story of her bout with breast cancer in this inspiring video. For every new Facebook fan, story shared or purchase made through Hungry Howie’s Pizza chain, a donation will be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Please click here to see it and share it with your friends to help make a difference. 🙂 Great job, Rhonda!

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

Tagged as 2012 Benefit Gala, Abe Thompson, ActionBooth, AJ Johnson, Albert R. Grace Jr., Amanda Puck, Amy Rule, Aon, April Daley, Art Institute, Babycakes, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Billy Dec, Black United Fund of Illinois, Bob Carl, Bonnie Oberman, Brian Jupiter, Brielle Buchberg, BUFI, Café des Architectes, Caliche Rum, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carmen Marc Valvo, Carnivale Restaurant, Cece & Melinda, Center for Cuban Studies, Charlie Besser, Cheeky Chicago, Chef Art Smith, Chef Leah, Cheryl Burton, Cheryl Tama Oblander, Chicago Sister Cities International, Chicago’s Most Social Scenester, Chicago’s Real Kitchen, Chicagolicious, Choosing to Participate, Christopher Clinton Conway, Cindy Crawford, Constellation Brands, County Line Orchard, Couture & Cocktails, CSCI, Dan Marquis, Daniel DeVos, Davanti Enoteca, David Dworshak, David Gombert, David Meister, David Rothstein, David Segal, DavidsTea, Deirdre McBreen, Denise Zak, Derrick Angoletti, Douglas Druick, Dylan Guiterrez, Eat Global Give Local, Elizabeth Ian Berry, Ellsworth Kelly, Elsa Longhauser, Elysabeth Alfano, Emma Arnold, Erica Bethe Levin, Erica Lynette Edwards, Erin Drewitz, Escada, Exelon, Fabrice Calmels, Facing History and Ourselves, Fear No Art, Fire & Ice, Francis Coppola Winery, From Chicago to Lahore: A Cultural Nexus, Frontier Chicago, Gale Gottlieb, Gary Heiferman, Graham Kostic, Greg Cameron, Greg Case, Greg Szoda, Gregg Biggers, Henry Henderson, Here’s to Life Concert 2, Herschel Segal, Howl-O-Ween, Huffington Post, Hungry Howie’s Oizza, Inc., Ivan Carlson, Jacqueline Kinloch, James Rondeau, Jan Flanagan, Janine Mileaf, Jared Hatch, Jay Gottlieb, Jayson Home and Garden, Jean-Claude Brizard, Jessica Zweig, Jesus Salgueiro, Jill Garling, Joffrey Ballet, John McMahan, Jonathon Beatty, Judy Wise, Justin White, Kara Walker, Kennedy-King College, Kerry James Marshall, Kristina McGrath, La Adelita, Langham Hotel Group, Laura Mercier, Leon Kinloch, Lindsay Segal, Lisa Corrin, Lisa Dorin, Lisa Frame, Lisa Lee, Living Legends/Passing the Torch, Lurie Children's Hospital, Luxury Garage Sale, Lynn McMahan, Madeleine Grynsztejn, Marc Brooks, Marcs Gentry, Marcus Riley, Margot Stern Strom, Maria Pinto, Marty Oberman, Matt Saunders, Matt Witkovsky, Matti Bunzl, Mauro Villanueva, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Mazher Ahmed, McGrath Acura, McGrath Imports, Meg Galus, Michael Darling, Michaela Parrillo, Michelle Boone, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Miguel Blanco, Mike McGrath, Mila Samokhina, Monica Dimperio, Nancy Timmers, Nancy Wilson, Naomi Beckwith, Natasha Egan, Nate Berkus, National Breast Cancer Foundation, Nieman Marcus, Nikki Jarvis, Pamella Roland DeVos, Park 52, pARTicipation: Young Artists Speak Up, Paul Buenavenida, Paul Stuart, PAWS at the Park Hyatt Costume Party, PAWS Chicago, Peter Zegers, Phineas Cole, Quay, RackedChicago.com, Radisson Blu Catering, Radisson Bly Aqua Hotel, Rande Gerber, Rebecca Besser, Reginald Reese, Renaissance Society, Rhonda Sanderson, Rick Canada, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Rubloff paperweights, Ryan Beschel, Ryan LaRoche, Serralles Family Distillery, Skinnygirl, SmallBar, Sonya Jackson, Southern Mac & Cheese, Ste Martaen, Stefani Catering, Steve Starr, Sugar Chic Designs, Susanne Ghez, Syd Brown, Temperley London, Temur Suluashvili, The Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Dinner Party, The Things That Matter, Tian Shuai, Todd Hess/H2Vino, Tom Strehle, Toni Canada, Tony Karman, Tony Wasilewski, Two Italians, United Airlines, Upstanders: Portraits of Courage, Victoria Jaiani, Walter Brindell, Watch312.com, Zemrah

August 9, 2012 · 1:21 pm

THE SERVICE CLUB’S 8TH ANNUAL FASHION SHOW IS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER!

…PLUS CHEFS & THE CITY HIGHLIGHTS, COOPER TAKES CHARGE, A WHOLE BLU WORLD, IADT’S IMAGINE ’12 FASHION SHOW, OLYMPIC NEWS, STELLA’S LATEST HONORS, BIRTHDAYS GALORE, A VERY SPECIAL NECKLACE, CHICAGO TRIBUNE’S GIFT TO READERS, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

This event has been a longtime labor of love for this year’s Chair Emeritus and event founder Hazel Barr, who, along with co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Saira Cooper and Tracey DiBuono (Tarantino), planned a fashion extravaganza July 30th that was a sell out with more than 260 guests. The perfect summer day started on the Peninsula terrace. And with the Hancock building looming in the background, guests mingled and enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres while anxiously awaiting the start of the show. Since I was modeling, I got there early for rehearsals which is always great fun with all of the ladies in high spirits and excited about spending the day with their friends. The Grand Ballroom was bathed in a sea of pink and themed “C’est Magnifique.” Images of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe were projected on the walls with a pink runway waiting for models who included Service Club members along with other local celebrities. Tracey Tarantino, as always, expertly produced the show even adding original French street music and remixed French pop music. This year’s runway collections featured fall fashions from top retailers that included Escada (Mary Pat Burns wore my favorite outfit of the day: a feathered coat dress over a strapless dress – exquisite!), Intermix, Starr Couture and Neopolitan. Laurie Davis’ Lulu’s at the Belle Kay provided vintage splendor for a show that had something for everyone. The men’s fashions were provided by Burdi and Tom James with an exciting finale inspired by the Olympics from Ralph Lauren Polo that featured models waving American flags on their runway walks. Other highlights included an exciting evening gown and fur segment from the always popular, long-time supporter, Neiman Marcus, and Stuart Weitzman, whose shoe segment had women clamoring for more! Baton Show Lounge performer Chilli Pepper was a crowd pleaser in her own black mini-dress topped with an eye-popping red cropped fur jacket. (Neiman’s gowns are breathtaking and I was honored to wear one by designer Robin Singer.) Models included Dan Uslan, Skip Grisham, Rich Gamble, Bunky Cushing, Stanley Paul, DC Crenshaw, Dr. Julius Few, Greg Hyder, Rich Varnes, Elizabeth Brodsky, Mamie Walton, Karen Peters, Kelly Drury, Larissa Kronfeld, Matt Lee, John Carroll, Scott Bobek, Rino Burdi, Jean Antoniou, Kim Gleeson, Lynn McMahan, Toni Canada, Gale Gottlieb, Abe Thompson, Rich Gamble, Mary Lasky, Sheila O’Grady, Saira Cooper, Tina Weller, Sherren Leigh, Susanna Negovan, Kip Lewis, Robin Robinson, Amy Wimer, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Mary Ann Childers, and more. (Photography by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…please click here to view more pics!)

Finally, the PAWS Beach Party is ready for your viewing pleasure! Since we are upgrading our network, this has taken a little longer than usual. Hope you enjoy this darling segment about the pets and the people who love them!

Chefs & the City is always a much-loved and highly-supported event at the Ritz-Carlton benefitting Vital Bridges Chronic Care Center and for its eighth annual event in the Grand Ballroom, more than 30 top chefs donated their time and fabulous samplings for a delectable evening of food for a cause! Beginning with a VIP Reception, guests sipped Grey Goose cocktails and beverages provided by Magic Hat, enjoyed tunes from DJ Megan Taylor and snapped photos in the Magbooth provided by Magnolia Photo Booth Co. Savory fare was prepared by 24 top chefs who included Ryan Pitts (from RL who was also the Chef Chair), Heather Terhune (Sable), Chris Pandel (The Bristol), Carl Shelton (BOKA), Giuseppe Tentori (GT Fish & Oyster), Patricio Sandoval (Mercadito), Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Doug Psaltis (RPM Italian), Roger Herring (Socca), Greg Bastien (Tavernita), Michael Garbin (Union League Club), Chuck Kazmer (Deca), Shawn McClain (Green Zebra), Jerome Bacle (Courtright’s), Paul Virant (Perennial Virant/Vie), Andy Motto (Quince) and Jonathan Gorecki (Karyn’s on Green) among many others. Honorary chairs for the event were Rich Varnes, Amanda Puck and Jason Dohmann. The evening also featured an amazing raffle that included a weekend in Harbor Country, a week in Puerto Vallarta, tickets to Chicago Gourmet, a C.D. Peacock necklace and so much more! The tastings were out of this world: Some of my highlights were Chef Jerome Bacle’s tomato gazpacho, Chef Tony Priolo’s seafood salad,
Chef Michael Garbin’s short rib sliders, Chef Stephen Henry’s heirloom tomato burrata with fresh basil and Chef Adam Grandt’s crispy pork bellies with tomato jam. Vital Bridges President/CEO Debbie Hinde, presented RL Restaurant and Gibsons Restaurant Group with the Robert S. Mayo Extra Helping Award which was accepted by RL GM Rich Varnes and Chef Pitts. The dance floor filled for the after-party as DJ Taylor jammed with drummer Michael Riendeau. Guests in attendance included Todd Hatoff, Mark Smithe, Joli Burrell, Jessica Zweig and Brian Fisher, Leslie Hindman’s John Walcher (who did the auctioneering), Alan Harder, Lorin Adolph, Sanjay and Natasha Sharma, Chuck Benya, Tina Weller and Dr. Jeff Weller, Bill Lasche, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Paul Iacono and Elizabeth Brodsky. For this portion of the evening, food choices included a hot dog cart from America’s Dog, Swirlz cupcakes, Vosges chocolates and Jake Melnick’s hamburgers. More than $100,000 was raised to support Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care, which helps low-income people living with AIDS rebuild their health and lives by providing food and nutrition services, housing and counseling. Revenue from Chefs & the City will underwrite food for more than 30,000 meals and 1,200 nights of housing. (To see more pics and my complete Chicago Tribune Sunday coverage, please click here!)

It was a whole BLU world of fundraising when co-chairs Janet Barnes and Ashley Weinzweig welcomed a record 1,200 guests to a sold-out lakeside soiree at the Shedd Aquarium for the sixth annual Auxiliary Board fundraiser, BLU! Raising more than $266,000 to support Shedd’s conservation and education initiatives, Shedd’s sultry summer evening benefit was filled with the sounds of tinkling cocktail glasses and local performers who included Detour JazFunk, Diver, Ami Moss & The Unfortunate and DJ Zebo. Against a backdrop of the Chicago skyline with fireworks popping over Lake Michigan, this event is always a sellout and a very popular summer social event! “The combining of exotic food and wine tastings with the glittering Chicago skyline made for an unforgettable night to come together in support of the Shedd,” said Barnes. Attendees enjoyed an array of mouthwatering dishes throughout the evening such as Big Fish Farms’ sustainable American paddlefish caviar (a staple at any Shedd event), summer garden rolls from Sunda, walleye tacos with tomato jalapeno chutney from Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop and peeky toe crab cannoli from The Florentine. The planet-friendly event also featured a delectable dish from Sweetspring Salmon – the only sustainably-farmed salmon in the world, signs that were made from recycled materials or will be reused for other Shedd events and compostable plates and silverware. “This is the most successful BLU in the event’s history,” said Weinzweig. “From dollars raised to people in attendance – even down to how much fun everyone had!” To cap off an already enjoyable evening, trolleys shuttled guests between Shedd and Underground for the after-party. (For more pics, please click here!)

One of the city’s hottest fashion showcases is set to take place at the UIC Forum Stage on Friday, September 21st at 8 p.m. when students from The International Academy of Design & Technology host Imagine ’12. Emceed by Jane Monzures of Loop FM’s morning show and host of "Living Healthy" on WGN, this student-produced exhibition will showcase an impressive array of garments by 44 student designers and the production talents of IADT’s students, in addition to highlighting unique programs at the school. Join designer Borris Powell, Michelle Tan, Suzanne Kopulos, Mallory Ulaszek, Rebecca Taras, Horacio Nieto, Tonya Pierce, Fraley Le, LaTonya Williams and Katie Schuppler, among many others, for a night of fashion and inspiration! For tickets ($15 for students and $25 for general admission) and more info, please call 312.980.9295 or email imagine@iadtchicago.com.

W.I.N.E. (Women in Entertainment) TV profiles a journalist and producer who is doing it ALL – Vicky Baftiri. As an Emmy-winning journalist and National Association of Black Journalist “Salute to Excellence” nominee, Vicky’s producing credits include the NBC nationally syndicated “Open House” and special news reports for WGN-TV. W.I.N.E. TV creator Sheila Henley says, “I’m so excit
ed for her to share her experiences and I hope it inspires young women everywhere to write, edit and produce!” Congrats, Vicky and Sheila!

Olympian Ruth Riley, who won gold as a member of the undefeated 2004 USA women’s basketball team in Athens, hosted an Opening Ceremony viewing party at Rockit Bar & Grill. Prior to her party, she spent the afternoon as the guest of the British Consulate in Chicago watching a live feed of the Opening Ceremonies. The viewing was held at the residence of Her Majesty’s Consul General, Robert Chatterson Dickson with citizens of Great Britain, members of the Mayor’s office and other guests in attendance. Ruth is currently a member of the WNBA basketball team, the Chicago Sky. Selected by ESPN as one of only three former Olympians to be given a Flip cam, she recorded interviews from both viewing parties with portions from each to be used as vignettes during telecasts. Meet Ruth and her teammates in person when they appear at a fundraiser for Nothing But Nets sponsored by Amazing Cosmetics on August 12th in Libertyville from noon to 4 p.m. Nothing But Nets' malaria campaign is a global initiative to eliminate one of the leading killers of children in Africa. For more info, please click here. (Pics by Slawek Chrzaszcz and Steve Starr…check out more pics here!)

Six months ago, the Chicago Tribune proudly launched Printers Row, a membership program for those who love books, authors and conversations about the ideas they generate. This weekend, they offered readers a special eight page sample tucked inside the Sunday section (where Candid Candace’s column also appears!). And beginning this week, they are offering even MORE perks with the membership program ($99 per year) which will include four free tickets to Printers Row Live! Events in addition to Book-of-the-Month discounts, private author receptions and conversations at Tribune Tower. You can now also buy it as a digital-only subscription for $29 or just the journal/fiction, no events or programs, for $49, which includes the Printers Row Journal and Fiction home-delivered every week in print and digital editions. To join, call 866.977.8742, offer code X156, or click here! Happy reading from your friends at the Chicago Tribune!!! This is a real literary treat!

Lots of friends’ birthdays this month! I loved celebrating the Squire, Bunky Cushing’s, birthday at the Four Seasons’ Allium Restaurant with his special ladies who included Hazel Barr, Zarada Gowenlock, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Robin Segesta, Myra Reilly and Megan McKinney. Chef Kevin Hickey’s menu is out of this world delicious and I was so thrilled to be included! Friends also celebrated the perpetually glam Toni Canada’s birthday (or as Dusty Stemer called it “her birthday tour”) at Piccolo Sogno. The evening couldn’t have been more perfect and Toni matched the occasion in one of the most beautiful dresses I’ve seen in a long time, a form-fitting floral sheath with purple feathers by Prabal Gurung. Friends on the patio included Corri McFadden (who regaled us with tales of her fairytale engagement on Capri), Jan Flanagan (sporting the coolest Louis Vuitton cuff on the planet), Lynn McMahan, Nina Mariano, Dusty, Susanna Negovan, Heather Farley Ingram and Jennifer Hamood. And a special thanks to all of my sweet friends who came out for my late birthday celebration at Chicago Cut! I loved seeing Leslie Hindman, Sheila O’Grady, Helen Melchior, Toni Canada, Nina Mariano, Jan Flanagan, Sheryl Dyer, Chris Long, Kristina McGrath, Sonya Jackson, Hazel Barr, Lynn McMahan, Mary Pat Burns, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou and Tracy Tarantino. (Sharyl Mackey couldn’t attend since she and Mike were vacationing in Michigan.) Bon anniversaire a mes amis! 🙂 (For more pics from these fun parties, please click here!)

I’m lovin’ all of this great press for and about Stella Foster! People are coming out of the woodwork to celebrate, honor, fete and host events to celebrate her long career! Her "Windy City Live" interview on Monday was priceless and now comes word she will be the FIRST African American women to be named Honorary Grand Marshall for the Columbus Day Parade on October 8th!!!! Later that same night, she also appeared on Jim Williams’ Show and Chicago Tonight with Phil Ponce! I have a feeling her “retirement” won’t be quite what she thinks it will be! LOL! Oh, and did I tell you the Mayor proclaimed Monday to be Stella Foster Day in Chicago!?! I was honored to be included in her last column along with so many other friends like Shell Reyes, Tony Weisman, Ken Bedford, Bonnie Krueger Spurlock, Anna Davlantes, Les Coney, John Roger and Mark Suppelsa! Stay tuned for more “Stellabration” updates! The Foster Love Train is just startin’ to roll!

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Check out this pic of Cooper Hefner that his dad tweeted Monday night along with the phrase, “And the legend continues!” He is the spitting image of Hef! I also hear he was a fabulous host at Saturday night’s Midsummer Night’s Dream party, even donning PJs! Too cute for words! And yes, Crystal Harris (aka the runaway bride) was there, too! (Check out a few more pics here!)

And if you’re in the market for unique jewelry and fast cars, then you might want to check out the Concurs d’ Elegance in Pebble Beach next week, August 15th through 19th. This is one of the top car shows in the world with rare autos showcased against a stunning backdrop. A special highlight of the grand event will be a one-of-a-kind necklace created by former race car driver, Mary Kaczor. This piece is so special (for this 100th anniversary) that it even has its own name, Winning Ways II! It was created from pieces of famous cars in the past including the frame nut from the Marmon Wasp, the very first car to win the Indy 500. The necklace is sculpted out of 18K white gold with black and white princess cut diamonds on its sides symbolizing two checkered flags. The centerpiece is a 10.43 carat diamond graded E VVS1. Bids will begin at $1.6 million…yeah, you heard me! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum as well as the Wheldon Family Trust. (Driver Dan Wheldon was killed in the Las Vegas race last year and is survived by his widow and two young sons.) (For more info, visit www.pebblebeachconcours.net or email mary@racerxdesigns.com.)

One of my favorite boutiques, STRUT, will be hosting a special shopping night, “High Fashion Without the High Price,” on Thursday, August 9th from 6 to 9 p.m. at 2549 N. Clark. Darling designer Borris Powell will feature his latest ready-to-wear collection and be on hand to answer all of your fashion questions. Beautiful boutique owner Niala Conte will be offering wine and appetizers to her lucky customers! Hope to see you there!

A special thanks to CS Magazine for featuring our Glamorama Launch Party in such fun style
in this month’s magazine! I love the comments and thought this was so clever! Hope to see you all Friday night, too! 🙂

That’s all folks! Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition and I hope you’re having a fun-filled summer!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Breaking news from my friend Tissy Eggleston who submitted this pic of the FIRST image transmitted from the Curiosity Rover on Mars!

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Tagged as Abe Thompson, Alan Harder, Allium Restaurant, Amanda Puck, Amazing Cosmetics, America’s Dog, Ami Moss & The Unfortunate, Amy Wimer, Andy Motto, Anna Davlantes, Ashley Weinzweig, Baton Show Lounge, Big Fish Farms, Bill Lasche, BLU, BOKA, Bonnie Krueger Spurlock, Borris Powell, Brian Fisher, Bunky Cushing, Burdi, C.D. Peacock, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carl Shelton, Chefs & the City, Chicago Cut, Chicago Gourmet, Chicago Sky, Chicago Tonight with Phil Ponce, Chicago Tribune, Chilli Pepper, Chris Long, Chris Pandel, Chuck Benya, Chuck Kazmer, Columbus Day Parade, Concurs d’Elegance, Cooper Hefner, Corri McFadden, Courtright’s, Crystal Harris, CS Magazine, Curiosity Rover, Dan Uslan, Dan Wheldon, DC Crenshaw, Debbie Hinde, Deca, Detour JazFunk, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop, Diver, DJ Megan Taylor, DJ Zebo, Doug Psaltis, Dr. Jeff Weller, Dr. Julius Few, Dusty Stemer, Elizabeth Brodsky, Escada, Four Seasons, Fraley Le, Gale Gottlieb, Giuseppe Tentori, Glamorama Launch Party, Green Zebra, Greg Bastien, Greg Hyder, Grey Goose, GT Fish & Oyster, Hazel Barr, Heather Farley Ingram, Heather Terhune, Helen Melchior, High Fashion Without the High Prices, Horacio Nieto, Hugh Hefner, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Intermix, International Academy of Design and Technology, Jake Melnick’s, Jan Flanagan, Jane Monzures, Janet Barnes, Jason Dohmann, Jean Antoniou, Jennifer Hamood, Jerome Bacale, Jessica Zweig, Jim Williams’ Show, John Carroll, John Roger, John Walcher, Joli Burrell, Jonathan Gorecki, Karen Peters, Karyn’s on Green, Katie Schuppler, Kelly Drury, Ken Bedford, Ken Norgan, Kevin Hickey, Kim Gleeson, Kip Lewis, Kristina McGrath, Larissa Kronfeld, LaTonya Williams, Laurie Davis, Les Coney, Leslie Hindman, Lorin Adolph, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Lynn McMahan, Magic Hat, Magnolia Photo Booth Co., Mallory Ulaszek, Mamie Walton, Mark Smithe, Mark Suppelsa, Mary Ann Childers, Mary Kaczor, Mary Lasky, Mary Pat Burns, Matt Lee, Megan McKinney, Mercadito, Michael Garbin, Michelle Tan, Midsummer Night’s Dream Party, Mila Samokhina, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Myra Reilly, Natasha Sharma, Neiman Marcus, Neopolitan, Niala Conte, Nina Mariano, Nothing But Nets, Patricio Sandoval, Paul Iacono, Paul Virant, PAWS Beach Party, Perennial Virant, Piccolo Sogno, Prabal Gurung, Printers Row, Printers Row Live! Events, Quince, Ralph Lauren Polo, Rebecca Taras, Rich Gamble, Rich Varnes, Rino Burdi, RL, Robert Chatterson Dickson, Robin Robinson, Robin Singer, Rockit Bar & Grill, Roger Herring, RPM Italian, Ruth Riley, Ryan Pitts, Sable, Saira Cooper, Sanjay Sharma, Scott Bobek, Service Club of Chicago, Sharyl Mackey, Shawn McClain, Shedd Aquarium, Sheila Henley, Sheila O’Grady, Shell Reyes, Sherren Leigh, Sheryl Dyer, Skip Grisham, Slawek Chrzaszcz, Socca, Sonya Jackson, Stanley Paul, Starr Couture, Stella Foster, Stella Foster Day, Steve Starr, STRUT, Stuart Weitzman, Sunda, Susanna Negovan, Suzanne Kopulos, Sweetspring Salmon, Swirlz, Tavernita, The Bristol, The Florentime, Tina Weller, Tissy Eggleston, Todd Hatoff, Tom James, Toni Canada, Tony Priolo, Tony Weisman, Tonya Pierce, Tracey DiBuono, Tracey Tarantino, UIC, Underground, Union League Club, Vie, Vital Bridges Chronic Care Center, Vivky Baftiri, Vosges, W.I.N.E. TV, Wheldon Family Trust, Windy City Live, Winning Ways II, WNBA, Women in Entertainment TV, Zarada Gowenlock

June 26, 2012 · 9:07 am

FASHION COLUMBIA 2012: BIGGEST, GREENEST AND RECORD BREAKING!

…PLUS JOFFREY’S COSTUME LUNCHEON, RUSSIA DAY, SERVICE CLUB’S FASHION SHOW, VICTORIAN BALL, NICOLE’S BABY LUNCHEON, A WHITE PARTY FOR CHARITY, A NEW FASHION BLOG, "ELEVEN DIVAS" AT DUSABLE, MY FAVORITE WEDDING AND SO MUCH MORE!

Fashion Columbia 2012 raised record funds, was the greenest fundraiser and was largest event at the college to date! Proceeds from the event, which brought out over 200 guests, will benefit the Eunice W. Johnson Scholarship in Fashion Studies. All of this good news must’ve made event chair Desiree Rogers very, very happy along with her glam Host Committee that consisted of Trish Rooney Alden, Madeleine Burrell, Gwendolyn Butler, Bonita Chapman, Nora Daley, Janice Barnes Davis, Susan Downing, Elissa Hamid Efroymson, Rich Gamble, Ikram Goldman, Mary Lou Haddad, Mellody Hobson, Susie Kiphart, Julie Latsko, Sylvia Neil, Diane Primo, MK Pritzker, Shawnelle Ritchie, Lynne Turner and Allison Grant Williams. The event at the Media Production Center at 16th and State Streets opened with a red carpet which led to models wearing a selection of vintage pieces from fashion icon, Eunice Johnson’s Fashion Fair Collection. For the main event, 15 fashion studies students showcased 45 designs that included menswear, evening gowns and dresses. The models wore Fashion Fair cosmetics, of course, from the company founded by Eunice Johnson. Desiree had this to say: “Many of the designs intrigued me and I would have purchased them that evening. I could not help but think of how happy Eunice Johnson would have been to see such talent. It was a magical evening.” During the program, Lana Jewelry founder Lana Bramlette was awarded the Alumni Achievement in Fashion Design Award by VP of Institutional Advancement, Eric Winston. Lana is known as the “Queen of Hoops,” with her jewelry adorning celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Kate Hudson, Angelina Jolie and Cameron Diaz, to name a few. A host committee dinner, rooftop reception, VIP lounge and after-party all completed this fabulous night of fashion that raised more than $70,000. Event sponsors included Macy’s and Mercedes-Benz. Live auction packages raised an additional $16K and included a fur donated by Fabbri Furs and a travel package to New York Fashion Week. As for the green aspect, the organizers recycled all post-event paper and other products, even composting food scraps! To learn more about Columbia College and the Eunice Johnson Scholarship Fund, please visit www.colum.edu/. (Click here to see ALL of the pics by Caitlin Saville Collins!)

The Joffrey Ballet’s 10th Anniversary Celebration of its Women’s Board continued with a Costume Luncheon held recently at the Ritz Carlton. Joffrey trainees modeled historic ballet costumes from its archives displaying the wonderful cross section, variety and depth of the collection. Besides the costumes, more than 200 guests also enjoyed beautifully decorated tables by Drew Holitik with mounds of flowers spilling out of Joffrey hat boxes and a luncheon menu that featured spring pea soup, followed by grilled chicken salad and ending with a chocolate Pot de Crème – elegant and yummy all at the same time! The 10th Anniversary Chair, Maureen Smith, introduced her long-time friend, Tina Sloan (a well-known actress from her time on “Guiding Light” and the author of “Changing Shoes”), who delivered a hysterical presentation of her one-woman show based on her book and life experiences including her role in the Academy Award- winning film, “Black Swan.” Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway (who could definitely have his own stand-up comedy show) then introduced Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, who thanked everyone for coming. The chairwomen for the event were Sophie Bross, Liz Ryan, Jennifer Litowitz and Maggie Scheyer with Nena Ivon (Chicago History Museum president and former fashion director of Saks on Michigan Avenue) serving as honorary chair. More than $50K will go towards supporting the Joffrey’s programs and performances as well as providing funds for the Costume Project, whose capable and devoted chair is Lisa Leiden. Seen on the scene were Helen Melchior, Kathleen Klaeser, Dusty Stemer, Tina Weller, Sherren Leigh, Amelia Silva, Leslie Hindman, Suzette Bulley, Jamee Field, Liz Adams, Mary Jo Basler, Sandy Deromedi, Astra Gamsjaeger, Yolanda Tyler, Jim Karas, Shelley Farley, Shauna Montgomery and Marci Holzer among many others. (View more pics here!)

More than 250 Russian nationals and Americans joined together to celebrate Russia Day at a black-tie gala at the Chicago Cultural Center on June 14th. Hosted by the Moscow Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, chaired by the dynamic Aleksandra Efimova and Prince Piotr Galitzine, the event honored Russia’s national holiday, which is celebrated on June 12th and commemorates the day in 1990 when the Russian Parliament formally declared sovereignty over Russia. This is only the second year that Russia Day has been celebrated in Chicago and the first year the event included a black-tie gala. The evening began with Sergey Kislyak, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the U.S., giving the keynote speech highlighting the importance of strengthening the relationships between the U.S. and Russia and focusing on the similarities between Chicago and Moscow. Other speakers included Prince Galitzine, the chairman of TMK IPSCO (a Russian company with offices in Downers Grove); Alexander Tseitline, VP of technology and research of NLMK USA (the U.S. arm of a Russian-owned steel company); and Mike Rehwinkel, president and CEO of EVRAZ North America. In addition to the speeches, the evening included a dinner featuring authentic Russian food, as well as performances by the Campanella Children’s Choir, the Joffrey Ballet, the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Ryan Opera Center and 75 members of the Chicago Master Singers, who will be traveling to St. Petersburg at the end of June. The Moscow Committee presented donations to the Children’s Choir as well as to several WWII vets from both the Russian and American sides. “I truly hope Russia Day encourages people of all countries to see the commonalities between each other and fosters collaboration among Russians and Americans to promote peace and economic growth,” Ms. Efimova said. Since its inception in 1960, Chicago Sister Cities International has built bridges between the people of Chicago and its international neighbors to achieve greater mutual understanding and to strengthen civic, economic and cultural ties. (Chicago has been a sister city with Moscow since 1997.) To conclude Russia Day 2012, Aleksandra and the Russian Federal Agency for the Commonwealth hosted a children’s story time that featured Aleksandra’s Russian translated books and toys. Is there no end to this woman’s talents!!?? Congrats Aleksandra…can’t wait to see what you do next!! For more info, please visit www.cityofchicago.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina unless otherwise noted.)

The Service Club of Chicago is hosting its annual Day on the Terrace Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Peninsula on Monday, July 30th. This year’s luncheon will have a Parisian theme – “C’est Magnifique in Couture & Contemporary Fashion” - and feature the fall collections from Escada, Intermix, Ralph Lauren, Starr Couture, Neapolitan, Lulu’s at the Belle-Kay, Burdi, Thomas James, Stuart Weitzman and a presentation of evening wear and furs by Neiman Marcus. Fashion show co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Tracey DiBuono and Saira Cooper along with Chair Emeritus Hazel Barr guarantee a show-stopping fashion extravaganza with some surprises planned, as always! The Cocktail Reception will begin on the Terrace at 11 a.m. and will be followed by the Fashion Show at 11:45 a.m. and a luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $175 with all proceeds benefitting the Club’s supplemental grant program. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Fashion, art, music and dance came together on June 15th at the Stan Mansion for the Victorian Ball in the 21st Century. Founder Laura Elvis created one of the most intriguing events of the summer with proceeds, this year, benefitting Chicago Lost and Found and their efforts to raise funds for art education. This year’s star performers included the Joffrey Ballet’s Abigail Simon and Mauro Villanueva and Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit. The event was emceed by WGN’s Jane Monzures with a red carpet hosted by HGTV’s design star (and all around cute guy) Kevin Grace. The Ball was produced by the handsome and talented Benjamin Cottrell with photos by Kirsten Miccoli and custom designed looks by Anna G. Costumes. It takes a village to have a successful event and Laura Elvis – along with event contributors Shari Duffy, Cera Stan, Ramsey Prince and April Padilla – pulled it off! Congrats to all!

A beautiful baby shower was hosted at the Casino Club recently by glam soon-to-be-grandma, Lynn McMahan for her only daughter, Nicole Brown. Thirty lucky ladies mixed and mingled amidst the elegance of a room dressed in shades of blue for Baby Boy Brown, who is due in September. Designer Tom Kehoe and Lynn planned beautiful table décor that included oversized floral arrangements of blue (naturally!) hydrangeas, New Zealand tea tree blossoms, white stock, purple hyacinths and baby roses with children’s alphabet blocks scattered across the pale blue tablecloths. In a word: BREATHTAKING! Lynn gave a heartfelt and loving tribute to Nicole and after both of their eyes cleared from tears, Lynn asked Rebecca Besser to say a few words. Rebecca emphasized being consistent, not ever be afraid to tell your children that you love them and to savor every moment. Hazel Barr spoke next, commenting that she has raised “three children, five grandchildren and half the neighborhood!” She went on to say, “You will feel a degree of love that you never thought you would have and like most things in life, you learn on the job.” (She also joked that “having children makes you no more of a parent than having a piano makes you a pianist.”) It was a true love fest for Lynn and Nicole and I couldn’t be happier for them or prouder to have been included! Seen in the elegant room were Michaela Parrillo, Toni Canada, Kristina McGrath, Jan Flanagan, Hedwig Golant, Dede Lubeznik, Gail Leahy, Sherrill Bodine, Lynda Silverman, Susan Gohl and Averill Leviton among others. Can’t wait to meet the little guy in September! Congrats, Nicole! Beautiful job, Lynn! (For more pics, please click here!)

And speaking of love, dear friends Alison Howlett and Josh Walters tied the knot in a loving ceremony at Holy Name Cathedral on June 9th. The reception and dinner followed at Gibson’s, where Steve Lombardo and John Colletti outdid themselves to ensure that Alison and Josh were happy as clams! Popular crooner Tony Ocean sang for the wedding party that included Zack Edwards (best man) and Kanika Rankin (maid of honor). The Shannon Rovers even led the couple into the room – how’s THAT for cool?! Guests included proud papa Ed Howlett, Mr. and Mrs. Vinnie Mehta, Senator Howard Carroll and wife Eda, Judge William Bauer and wife Patty, Alison’s mom Lynn Cialdella and grandma Helen Howlett, Judge Mike Howlett and wife Kathy, Helen Cashman and family, Senator Jim Deleo, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Allison, Mr. and Mrs. Al Childress (Alison’s aunt), Roxanne Holloway (Josh’s mom) and John Walters (Josh’s dad) among many others. The couple flew off for their honeymoon shortly after at the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Aruba. Congrats with love, Mr. and Mrs. Walters! (Fab, creative fotos by Kristyna Archer.)

Mark your calendars now for The White Party set for Friday, July 27th, from 9 to 11 p.m. at Underground Chicago, located at 56 W. Illinois. Last year, beloved man-about-town Marco Foster planned this benefit for One Hope United around his birthday so it was a dual celebration. This charity helps abused children as well as foster kids and their parents and since Marco was a foster child himself, this event is very near and dear to his heart. Marco said, “I know what it’s like to get passed around from home to home and it’s not fun. It just so happens my last name is Foster by my adopted mother.” This two-hour cocktail reception will have very low ticket prices as Marco wants everyone to be able to come and support this wonderful cause! For tickets and more information, please click here!

Congrats to personal stylist Maggie Rei Stepf, formerly manager of J.Mendel on Michigan Avenue: This enterprising and talented lady has launched a new website, ChicXCity.com, which exclusively highlights local designers and boutiques as well as featuring insider scoops on deals of must-have items for the season. Maggie also offers wedding styling advice! I’m so happy for her and wish her all the best! Click here and find out the latest fashion news! :)

A thrilling concert featuring eleven of our town’s top female vocalists will return to the DuSable Museum, located at 740 E. 56th Place, on Sunday, July 8th. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Timeless Gifts, which is a summer mentoring program that gives young performers the opportunity to participate in performances where they will be mentored by world-class performers and technicians. The concert, dubbed “Eleven Divas,” was founded by Joan Collaso and will feature Lynne Jordan (love you…and your Shivers!), Frieda Lee, Sue Conway, Julia Huff, Maggie Brown, Bobbi Wilsyn, Tecora Rogers, Margaret Murphy, Theresa Davis, Yvonne Gage and Joan herself. There will be two shows – 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. – and for ticket info, please call 312.808.0005.

Who will I see at Old St. Pat’s Block Party next weekend, June 29th and 30th!? I hope YOU! I’ll be guest bartending with some very well-known peeps so I hope you’ll come out and see us! (Please don’t order anything difficult as my skills behind the bar leave something to be desired! Have a great week and I hope to see you here the next time! If you enjoy my weekly “blogazine,” please sign up (above right) and receive updates. :)

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. As I’m always happy to promote new models/designers, I would like to introduce you to 19-year-old Johnathan Cook, who is trying to make a fashion statement from Rockford, Illinois! Besides being a designer, Johnathan describes himself as “son, brother to Liberty Cook, gospel singer, musician and model.” From the looks of this photo, I think he’s got a great start! Good luck, Johnathan, and follow your dreams!

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

Tagged as Abigail Simon, Al Childress, Aleksandra Efimova, Alexander Tseitline, Alison Howlett, Allison Grant Williams, Alumni Achievement in Fashion Design Award, Amelia Silva, Angelina Jolie, Anna G. Costumes, April Padilla, Ashley Wheater, Astra Gamsjaeger, Benjamin Cottrell, Black Swan, Bobbi Wilsyn, Bonita Chapman, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Burdi, Caitlin Saville Collins, Cameron Diaz, Campanella Children’s Choir, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, C’est Magnifique in Couture & Contemporary Fashion, Cera Stan, Changing Shoes, Chicago Master Singers, ChicXCity.com, Christopher Clinton Conway, Columbia College Chicago, Costume Luncheon, Day on the Terrace Fashion show and Luncheon, Dede Lubeznik, Desiree Rogers, Diane Primo, Drew Holitik, DuSable Museum, Dusty Stemer, Ed Howlett, Eda Carroll, Eleven Divas, Elissa Hamid Efroymson, Eric Winston, Escada, Eunice W. Johnson Scholarship, EVRAZ North America, Fabbri Furs, Fashion Columbia 2012, Frieda Lee, Gail Leahy, Gibson's, Guiding Light, Gwendolyn Butler, Hazel Barr, Hedwig Golant, Helen Cashman, Helen Howlett, Helen Melchior, HGTV, Ikram Goldman, Intermix, J. Mendel, Jamee Field, Jan Flanagan, Jane Monzures, Janice Barnes Davis, Jean Antoniou, Jennifer Litowitz, Jennifer Lopez, Jim Karas, Joan Collaso, Joffrey Ballet, John Colletti, John Walters, Johnathan Cook, Josh Walters, Judge Mike Howlett, Judge William Bauer, Julia Huff, Julie Latsko, Kanika Rankin, Kate Hudson, Kathleen Klaeser, Kathy Howlett, Kevin Grace, Kirsten Miccoli, Kristina McGrath, Kristyna Archer, Lana Bramlette, Lana Jewelry, Laura Elvis, Leslie Hindman, Lisa Leiden, Liz Adams, Liz Ryan, LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, Lynda Silverman, Lynn Cialdella, Lynn McMahan, Lynne Jordan, Lynne Jordan and the Shovers, Lynne Turner, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Macy’s Mercedes-Benz, Madeleine Burrell, Maggie Brown, Maggie Rei Stepf, Maggie Scheyer, Marco Foster, Margaret Murphy, Mary Jo Basler, Mary Lou Haddad, Maureen Smith, Mauro Villanueva, Mellody Hobson, Michaela Parrillo, Mika Samokhina, Mike Rehwinkel, Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit, MK Pritzker, Moscow Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, Neapolitan, Neiman Marcus, Nena Ivon, New York Fashion Week, Nicole Brown, NLMK USA, Nora Daley, Old St. Pat’s Block Party, One Hope United, Patty Bauer, Peninsula, Prince Piotr Galitzine, Ralph Lauren, Ramsey Prince, Rebecca Besser, Rich Gamble, Roxanne Holloway, Russia Day, Ryan Opera Center, Saira Cooper, Sandy Deromedi, Senator Howard Carroll, Senator Jim Deleo, Sergey Kislyak, Service Club of Chicago, Shannon Rovers, Shari Duffy, Shauna Montgomery. Marci Holzer, Shawnelle Ritchie, Shelley Farley, Sherren Leigh, Sherrill Bodine, Sophie Bross, Stan Mansion, Starr Couture, Steve Lombardo, Steve Starr, Stuart Weitzman, Sue Conway, Susan Downing, Susan Gohl and Averill Leviton, Susie Kiphart, Suzette Bulley, Sylvia Neil, Tecora Rogers, The White Party, Theresa Davis, Thomas James, Timeless Gifts, Tina Sloan, Tina Weller, TMK IPSCO, Tom Allison, Tom Kehoe, Toni Canada, Tracey DiBuono, Trish Rooney Alden, Underground Chicago, Victorian Ball in the 21st Century, Vinnie Mehta, Yolanda Tyler, Yvonne Gage, Zack Edwards

December 14, 2011 · 9:31 pm

MICHIGAN AVENUE MAGAZINE SCORES ROSIE COUP!

…PLUS WORLD OF CHOCOLATE, A CLEVER WEDDING IDEA, VITAL BRIDGES’ HOLIDAY LUNCHEON, MACY’S MAKES-A-WISH, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS, BEAUTY AND GIFT IDEAS AND MORE!

Michigan Avenue Magazine scored another coup for the publication by featuring Rosie O’Donnell on the December cover along with a feature article cleverly entitled “Rosie the Riveting.” They held a by-invite-only party in the Seven Stars Lounge at Horseshoe Casino. This high roller’s heaven is an elegant room filled with crystal chandeliers, a humidor, extensive bar and friendly servers. Dubbed “In the Red, Holiday Celebration,” this event attracted A-listers who were transported via private motor coach to this gambler’s oasis in Hammond, Indiana. The media info that was provided informed us that a VIP area would be provided for Rosie and her crew and that once she entered this area, no one was to speak with her or film her. Well, I was prepared for the worst. You sensed the minute Rosie entered the room since everyone’s iPhones were waving in the air and the lights from the photogs cameras were flashing nonstop. She stopped repeatedly on her way to the Red Carpet to talk to guests and take pictures. When she got to the Carpet, the cameras’ lights were blinding. And not only did she NOT go to her designated area, but she worked the Red Carpet longer than any celeb I’ve ever seen. She never left…she talked to each and every person who wanted to speak to her and she even allowed a cameraman to check the label on her sweater after someone complimented her on it. In a word, she was a delight! I love her refreshing candor and in her comments about Chicago, she has stated that she loves Table 52 (Chef Art’s fried chicken is a hit!), Paris Club (where she celebrated her show’s launch), Naha (which she said is the “best meal she’s ever had”) and Gibson’s (where she said to “ask for Mo, he’s the best waiter
I’ve ever had.”) The night also included a charity component with guests encouraged to bring a toy to donate to LYDIA Home Association. Mich Mag’s Publisher Dan Uslan and Editor-in-Chief Susanna Negovan welcomed guests and thanked everyone for coming. The Illinois Center for Broadcasting streamed the evening live and I was honored to be the host. Congrats Mich Mag and welcome to Chicago, Rosie!!! (Photos by Mila Samokhina, Cindy Barrymore and Steve Starr…click HERE to see more!) Watch the Michigan Avenue Mag/Rosie party below on Watch312.com! 🙂

watch312 on livestream.com. Broadcast LiveFree

I always love the World of Chocolate event. It is such a celebration of life and love and it benefits the Aids Foundation of Chicago. Everyone from vendors to restaurants to hotels compete for bragging rights in multiple categories. This year, 28 of our city’s finest participated in this annual fundraiser that attracted more than 1,500 guests. Judges included ABC 7’s Kathy Brock, Fox Chicago’s Jan Jeffcoat, Chicago Pride’s Bill Pritchard, Mrs. Illinois International Nicole Khayat, RL’s Rich Varnes, beloved entertainer Miss Lucy Foozie, designer Richard Dayhoff, WGCI’s Loni Swain, entertainer Cyon Flare, NoMI pastry chef Meg Galus and Lookingglass Theatre’s Anthony Fleming, among others. They had a tough decision choosing between entries that included Das Food’s salted caramel, Wow Bao’s steamed bao filled with dark chocolate and coconut, Kendall College’s chocolate- and cranberry-infused macaroons and chocolate Christmas trees, Taberna Restaurant’s chocolate filled dates with bacon, the Peninsula’ stropical chocolate paradise complete with safari girls, Illinois Nut and Candy’s “Wizard of Oz”-themed booth and the Palmer House Hilton’s chocolate-flavored wine that Chef Stephen Henry was generously pouring. I thought they should ALL win but, sadly, this wasn’t to be. After all of the votes were tallied, the winners were Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts for overall tastiest treat (Hot Chocolate Award), Talbott Teas for the most creative use of chocolate (Loco Cocoa Award), Terry’s Toffee (who debuted this year’s delicious limited edition “Holly Berry Toffee”) for best overall presentation (Sweet Booth Award) and the Peninsula for most visually enticing dish (Chocoholic’s Dream Award). The People’s Choice Award went to Just Like U Like It Catering. Their mini chocolate grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato and basil soup shooters was a crowd pleaser along with their chocolate mashed potatoes. This year’s honorary chair Mayor Rahm Emanuel came for a short while and greeted guests. Event chairs Glen Pietrandoni, Ben Stringfellow and Jim Perry also included a Memorial Wall where guests could honor lost loved ones. Held at the Hilton Chicago, this one-of-a-kind event commemorated World AIDS Day and raised more than $300,000 to support AFC and the fight against HIV/AIDS. President/CEO of the AFC David Ernesto Munar had this to say: “We’re so grateful for the supporters and vendors who commemorated World AIDS Day by helping us raise these much-needed funds. As guests walked into the ballroom, they were greeted by a gigantic display of the word ‘HOPE,’ which captures exactly how we feel. And as Charles Dickens once said, ‘There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate!” (View extra pics by Steve Starr HERE and to watch my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!)

Watch live streaming video fromwatch312 atlivestream.com

I get so many emails and information from people with ideas they want to promote and, every once in a while, it’s a really unique concept like the one I recently heard about. “Pap the Question” is the brainchild of ex-paparazzo James Ambler, who is secretly conspiring with nervous grooms-to-be and photographing the magic moment when couples get engaged. Ambler says he got the idea for “Pap the Question” shortly after he himself got down on one knee. “Following my own proposal, friends asked if we had any pictures from this special day. We didn’t, but that definitely planted the seed.” Having witnessed so many different proposals, Ambler has many tips on the subject, including a very common (and easily prevented) mistake most guys make when popping the question: fumbling for the ring. He says have it in an easily accessible place “so you look as smooth as Cary Grant for the reveal.” And for the ladies, one thing future fiancées should NEVER do when their prince proposes is to focus all of their attention on the ring! Ambler says he’s seen this happen so often and it’s not pretty. “While Romeo is longing to stare passionately into her eyes, she’s only concerned with the hardware. Cold!” Originally from Oxford, England, James has been a professional photographer for 10 years. One of his amusing celeb stories included Angelina Jolie, who once took pity on him after James was racing after her on his bike and crashed. She rolled down her window, told him to put his bike in the trunk and gave him a lift in her limo. I think James is onto something with this unique idea for creating even more exciting wedding memories! And instead of celebs, James will now be chasing down young lovers in the Windy City! (www.PaptheQuestion.com)

Vital Bridges’ annual “Celebrate the Spirit” holiday brunch was held recently at the Four Seasons. More than 400 guests attended this fundraiser which netted $158,000 to support nutrition and housing services for low income people living with HIV/AIDS. Guests enjoyed a delectable meal, an exciting live and silent auction and a $10K cash raffle. My longtime friend Paul Iacono, who is an ardent supporter of this organization, reports, “Incredibly, since its founding in 1988, Vital Bridges has provided more than 10 million meals, 600,000 nights of shelter and 250,000 hours of counseling to over 10,000 clients. This year former board chair Ron Anunziato was honored for his longtime dedication and commitment to this all too important cause. Additionally, brunch attendee Emily Angel was the lucky recipient of the $10K cash prize in the annual raffle. Emily is the niece of Bill Holt, one of Vital Bridges’ original founders, who succumbed to AIDS in the mid 1990’s. In the true spirit of the organization and its mission, Emily generously donated her entire cash prize back to Vital Bridges.” Live auction packages included a Lake Michigan yacht cruise with food and beverages provided by Sepia Restaurant, a trip for eight to Puerto Vallarta, and a trip for two to Hawaii. “The annual brunch is an afternoon of delicious food, delightful entertainment and the company of good friends,” said Vital Bridges’ chief healthcare strategist Deborah Hinde. And thanks so much Paul for this info!!! (Thanks to Cindy Barrymore, for these fab fotos!)

As the holidays fast approach, some of us are thinking about what to buy for that sports nut in our families. And if you’re a Cubs fan, then there could be no greater gift (besides the Cubs winning the World Series) than Jimmy Greenfield’s "100 Things Cubs Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die." Written by this Chicago Now guru, the 300-page book is packed with crucial info such as important dates, player nicknames, memorable moments and outstanding achievements by individual players. There is also a to-do list of Cubs activities which include taking in Wrigley Field, traveling to Arizona for spring training and sipping beers at the best Cubs bars around the country. The publication date is March 1, 2012…but I think you should order now while they're still available! Congrats Jimmy!

Holiday dinners abound now with friends getting together to celebrate their happy times, reflect on the year behind and think about the year ahead. It’s also a great time to share those all-important beauty secrets which is one of the things I did recently with a group of glam friends at the retooled Pump Room. As we encircled a big round table, enjoying champagne and sharing gifts we all spoke of what we were grateful for and what our goals were for 2012. This was all very interesting stuff but everyone’s ears seemed to perk up at the discussion of individual beauty secrets so I will share them with you now. Toni Canada’s favorite product is Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream (tube) which she says “helps heal chapped, cracked dry skin and has anti-inflammatory benefits – great protection against the harsh Chicago winters.” Gayle Anthony’s must-have product is Chantecaille’s Anti-Glycation Primer with SPF50+. “I use it with or without makeup, as it gives great protection!” she said. Kristina McGrath swears by GLO Minerals under eye cream. “It tingles when you put it on and is supposed to WAKE up your eyes!” she raved. (Boy, could I use this!) Lynn McMahan loves the Claudio Riaz makeup palette at Barney’s as well as an iPhone app called Suzanne Somers’ Nap 26 because “listening to this particular group of sound frequencies for 26 minutes is equal to three hours of sound sleep according to the NASA researchers who invented it.” Jan Flanagan swears by heated eyelash curlers and coconut oil used as a hair conditioner and makeup remover. As for me, I love going to Che Sguardo (owned by former model Kathy Schmalen) at 161 W. Illinois because she finds truly unique makeup from around the globe and imports it to Chicago. Models and on-air people love this place! I also love the MAC Mellow Mood shimmer highlighter. It’s great for emphasizing cheekbones and looks terrific in photos. And my choice for the VERY best facial moisturizer (goodbye, La Mer), is my new favorite: L’Oreal’s Golden Balm. The best part is you can find it at Walgreen’s…for cheap! So now ya know! 🙂

Hope you’re taking the time to stop and smell the pinecones! I know I am!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you have little ones who still believe in Santa (lucky them!), then don’t forget to take their stamped letters to Santa at Macy’s! Address it to “Santa at the North Pole” and drop it into their special Santa letterbox. For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-a-Wish-Foundation up to $1,000,000!!! To learn more, please click HERE! 🙂

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

Tagged as 100 Things Cubs Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die, ABC7, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Angelina Jolie, Anthony Fleming, Barney’s, Ben Stringfellow, Bill Holt, Bill Pritchard, Candid Candace Chicago, Cary Grant, Chantecaille’s Anti-Glycation Primer with SPF50+, Charles Dickens, Che Sguardo, Chef Art Smith, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Now, Chicago Pride, Cindy Barrymore, Claudio Riaz, Cyon Flare, Dan Uslan, Das Good, David Ernesto Munar, Deborah Hinde, Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream, Emily Angel, Four Seasons, Fox Chicago, Gayle Anthony, Gibson's, Glen Pietrandoni, GLO Minerals under eye cream, Hilton Chicago, Horseshoe Casino, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, Illinois Nut and Candy, In the Red Holiday Celebration, iPhone, James Ambler, Jan Flanagan, Jan Jeffcoat, Jim Perry, Jimmy Greenfield, Just Like U Like It Catering, Kathy Brock, Kathy Schmalen, Kendall College, Kristina McGrath, La Mer, L’Oreal’s Golden Balm, Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, Loni Swain, Lookingglass Theatre, LYDIA Home Association, Lynn McMahan, MAC Mellow Mood shimmer highlighter, Macy's, Make-a-Wish Foundation, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Meg Galus, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Miss Lucy Foozie, Mo, Mrs. Illinois International, Naha, NASA, Nicole Khayat, NoMI, Palmer House Hilton, Pap the Question, Paris Club, Paul Iacono, Peninsula Hotel, Pump Room, Rich Varnes, Richard Dayhoff, RL, Ron Anunziato, Rosie O’Donnell, Santa at the North Pole, Sepia Restaurant, Seven Stars Lounge, Stephen Henry, Steve Starr, Susanna Negovan, Suzanne Somers’ Nap 26, Taberna Restaurant, Table 52, Talbott Teas, Terry’s Toffee, Toni Canada, Vital Bridges, Walgreen’s, Watch312.com, WGCI, World AIDS Day, World of Chocolate, World Series, Wow Bao, Wrigley Field

November 21, 2011 · 8:47 pm

“DREAMING A LITTLE DREAM” FOR ST. JUDE

…PLUS PAWS’ RECORD BREAKER, OPEN DOORS GALA, MARTHA STEWART, TOY DRIVES, A TRIP TO THE DESERT, HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS AND MORE!

It is so heartwarming to see charity events breaking records in these tough economic times. All of the events I’ve attended recently have had record attendance and have raised more money than in years past. This year’s, St. Jude “Dream a Little Dream” Fashion Show and Luncheon was no exception. With the biggest crowd in the event’s 17-year history, this much loved event brought out more than 1,500 supporters and raised more than $338K! Presenting sponsors for the next two years, Camping World and Good Sam presented a fashion extravaganza produced by none other than Chicago’s own Tracey Tarantino of ZZazz Productions. (Nancy Long was the fashion coordinator.) They knocked it out of the ballpark with collections from York Furrier, BCBG, Cusp, Neiman Marcus, Escada, Talbots, Luca Luca, Swaby, Nade Baer, Elda de la Rosa, menswear by Lord & Taylor and Furla accessories. Show highlights included glam jewels from sponsor Swarovski and a cool, holiday-inspired collection by designer darling Peach Carr of “Project Runway.” Since this is the 17th year of this event and the underlying theme of the fashion show was “Dream a Little Dream,” Tracey opted for music from The Beatles, opening with “She Was Just 17.” There were even five dancing Marilyn Monroes to add some high energy fun to the show. Entertainment was provided by Larry Adams who performed with his wife, Jessye Wright. Both are accomplished singers with Larry being named by Chicago magazine as Chicago Theatre’s best singer. Emcee for the event was NBC’s Allison Rosati who charmed the crowd from beginning to end. I was so thrilled to be the honorary chair and my highlight was introducing this year’s host family, Annie and Michael Brady and their superhero son, Michael. Michael was diagnosed last year at age three with Stage 4 neuroblastoma. Within hours of this diagnosis, Michael and Annie were pursuing the best course of treatment for their precious little boy. With the support of family and friends, they decided to uproot their small family (Michael also has a little sister, Allie) and relocate to Memphis, the home of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. They made this decision knowing that at St. Jude, Michael would receive the best care in the world available for children with cancer. Annie, told the crowd in a moving speech that her daughter “took her first steps in the halls of St. Jude with the support and cheering of St. Jude staff.” Executive Committee member Cathy Shaker Breit said, “I was informed that tickets sales were sold out four weeks ago or else the attendance might have hit over 2,000. This event, from my 478 years on the Board (LOL!) is by far the largest I’m aware of. The goodwill and grassroots efforts it creates to fuel other local Chicago events is invaluable.” (To view Michael Brady's heartfelt story, please see the following video).

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This event began with a champagne reception as well as makeup and hair touchups by Trish McEvoy and Ultimate Hair and a wine tasting by The Naked Grape. I was also proud to conduct a “Text to Live” that raised an extra $4,400 for the event. The extensive raffle had something for everyone and is always a favorite of attendees. Exciting packages this year for the Dream Raffle included tickets to the finale of “American Idol,” a Disney package with a Waldorf-Astoria stay, Blackhawks, Sox and Cubs tickets, a $1,000 Nordstrom gift card and a Kayman Scooter among hundreds of other prizes. The St. Jude Executive Committee – Cathy Shaker Breit, Ann Danner Dwyer, Toni Hasan and Terry Shaker – worked long and hard to make this “Dream a Little Dream” a reality and they did so in grand style. Congrats on this wonderful event benefitting the premier pediatric cancer research center in the world! To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and John Giesecke, please click here and to view my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below! Do you like the new show name!!??? 🙂

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The PAWS Fur Ball is one of my favorite events! How could it not be when you see terriers in tennis shoes, dachshunds in diamonds and Chihuahuas in cowboy hats?! And like the St. Jude event, this event was also a sellout with more than 650 animal lovers and their 200 pets! The 10th annual Fur Ball’s co-chairs Julie and Kurt Miller and Nancy and Michael Timmers planned an exciting night of fundraising highlights that included amazing one-of-a-kind live auction packages. A trip for two to Argentina brought $11K while a portrait sitting by Victor Skrebneski raised $31K. Other packages included two tickets to an “American Idol” taping in Hollywood, a week-long stay in a Tuscan villa, tickets for two to the 2012 Grammy Awards (that sold for $25K) and the opportunity to have your pet featured on the cover of PAWS’ 2013 desktop calendar that sold for $38K. Five-year board member Judith Blazer also donated $1 million the week before to support PAWS’ many good works. Fifteen PAWS puppies and kittens were on display tugging at everyone’s heartstrings and during the course of the evening six were adopted. One of the adoptees, a kitten with burned paws who had just been released from the hospital on this day, was the first to be adopted by Joann and Michael Sweig. Two of my tablemates, Anne-Marie and Murry Peretz, also became proud parents of a darling doggie on this magical night. This premier pet lover’s event began with a red carpet followed by a cocktail reception surrounded by the extensive silent auction items. There was even a doggie spa complete with masseuses and pawdicures donated by Paradise 4 Paws. Canine guests were also treated to a Pet Buffet located in the French Room where they could dine on chicken and rice with gravy, green beans and carrots served in crystal goblets and dog cookies, donated by McGrath Lexus & Acura. Animal communicator Debbie Weaver was on hand as well as artist Rosemary Fanti who had so many requests for pet pics that she ran out of paper!!! Human parents enjoyed a delicious dinner buffet in the elegant Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel; dancing continued in the French Room. PAWS Chicago has been saving pets’ lives since 1997 and, this year, will exceed 4,200 adoptions. Founder Paula Fasseas was proud to report that this year’s event netted $750K - $150K more than last year’s! To learn more about this worthwhile organization, please click here. To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and moi, please click here and to see my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!

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Columbia College’s Open Doors Gala, co-chaired by Richard Kiphart and Sylvia Neil, raised nearly $700K and honored Linda Johnson Rice, chairman of Johnson Publishing Company. The organization’s first Chicago Legacy Award was created to recognize those who have made a significant impact in the Chicago community and have helped “open doors” for future generations. Johnson Publishing has a long-standing relationship with Columbia College, including hiring interns and graduates. Columbia College recently purchased the Johnson Publishing headquarters building for the future site of the college library. This festive evening began with a cocktail reception featuring creative installations throughout the Media Production Center displaying student film work, art, photography, jazz music and fashion design. Columbia President Dr. Warrick Carter and Board Chairman Allen Turner welcomed guests. The sit-down dinner, catered by Food for Thought, followed and included a root vegetable “mosaic wall” and beef tenderloin plus a made-to-order donut bar for dessert. The evening’s entertainment featured performances by the Columbia College Gospel Choir & Rhythm Section among other student-driven performances. Congrats to Linda Johnson Rice for this much deserved honor! For more info about Columbia College and all they have to offer, please click here. (Photos courtesy of Steve Becker and Robert Kusel…to view all event pics, please click here!)

The North Shore Women’s Board and the Chicago Women’s Board of the American Cancer Society along with The Book Stall recently welcomed dining and design guru Martha Stewart to celebrate the release of her new book, “Martha’s Entertaining: A Year of Celebrations.” More than 320 guests, including author luncheon chair of the NSWB Shannon Weasler, author luncheon chair of the CWB Connie Teska, and emcee Kathy Brock (ABC 7) enjoyed lunch at the Hilton Orrington Hotel in Evanston while listening to Stewart discuss her life and work. The event raised more than $15K for the American Cancer Society. Seen on the scene were Lynn McMahan, Michaela Parrillo, Toni Canada, Kristina McGrath, Jan Flanagan, Angie Campolo, Megan Galante, Jan Evans, Stacy Barrins (Chicago Women’s Board president), Andrea Hurteau (North Shore Women’s Board president), Sally Jo Morris, Betty Rendell, Ann Lynch and Sheree Valukas among many others.

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

On December 10th, don’t miss Kris Kringle’s 9th Annual Holiday Toy Drive and Kandy Kane Ball at 940 W. Weed St. beginning at 9 p.m. Spinmasters DJ Sye Young and DJ JEM will get the party started at this Winter Wonderland (aka Joe’s Bar) where a toy donation is required and pre-sale tickets are only $40. Cocktail attire is requested and there will be an open bar, appetizers, a live choir and festive holiday décor. The toys will be distributed to hundreds of children at Holy Name Church on December 17th and anyone is welcome to help. It’s a great opportunity to give back during the holiday season! This event is an annual sellout so get your tickets now! Tickets can be purchased at www.Ticketweb.com or at Joe’s Bar.

Still with children in mind for the holidays, the 5th Annual Brad’s Kids Toy Drive will take place on Thursday, December 15th, from 7 – 9 p.m. at The Joynt, located at 650 N. Dearborn. All you need to bring is a new, wrapped toy to gain entry to this party offering complimentary cocktails, live music and more! Since 2007, Brad’s Kids has delivered more than 25,000 toys to seven local hospitals. Visit www.bradskids.org for more info.

How about a terrific holiday getaway for a good cause? On January 27th, Dance for Life will host a celebratory evening of dance in support of the AIDS Assistance Program and The Dancer’s Fund in Palm Springs at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Annenberg Theater. Tickets for the event start at $150 and can be purchased by calling 760.325.8481 or clicking here. With Chicago Ambassadors Katherine Chez Malkin and Carol Kaplan rounding up support from other “snowbirds,” you know this event will be a sellout!

I hope you, your families and friends all have a delightful, healthy and Happy Thanksgiving. We have much to be grateful for…

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And if you’re getting in the gift giving mood for the holidays and just don’t know where to go, may I suggest Leslie Hindman Auctioneers at 1338 W. Lake St.? Her “Fine Jewelry and Timepieces” auction will begin previews on Wednesday, November 30th , beginning at 10 a.m. The preview will run through Saturday, December 3rd, with the auction on Sunday and Monday, December 4th and 5th. I have the catalog and, believe you and me, there are more than 1,100 lots running the gamut and price ranges in luxurious jewelry and watches. :) Sigh…

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