Tag Archives: Joffrey Ballet

July 5, 2012 · 10:17 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as Abby McCormick O’Neil, Academy Award, Access Tickets, Adolphe Adam, Alejandro Silva, Alexander Payne, Alexandra Nichols, Amelia Silva, Andrea Schwartz, Anita Liskey, Anne Reyes, Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Averill Leviton, Azeeza Kahn, Barry Missner, Beth Williams, Bill Kurtis, Bill Marcus, Bill Zwecker, Brigette Lefevre, Buddy Leviton, Callie Siskel, Camille Cook, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Chicago, Caryn Harris, Chauncey McCormick, Chicago High School for the Arts, Chicago magazine, Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine, Chris Long, Cynthia King, D. Carroll Joynes, Daniel Bryant, Dean Richards, Desiree Rogers, Diana Palomar, Donna LaPietra, Dori Wilson, Doug Porter, Dr. Steve Stryker, Dr. Walter Massey, Eda Davidman, Election, Ellen Sandor, Elliot Levin, Extra, Francie Comer, Gary Cole, Gene Siskel Film Center, George Lucas, Giselle, Glamorama, Glamourcon 53, Graff, Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, Gwyneth Paltrow, Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Helen Melchior, How Do You Know, Hyatt Regency Chicago, Ikram Goldman, Ira Antelis, Iron Man 3, J. Christopher Reyes, Jacqueline Kinloch, Jamey Fadim, Jamie Foxx, Janet Davies, Jean Coralli, Jean de St Aubin, Jean Paul Gaultier, Jean-Luc Decaux, Jeff Cohen, Jeff Conway, Jeffrey Sprecher, Jim Mayhercy, Jim Murray, Jim Skinner, Joan Harris, Joe Antunovich, Joe Trpik, Joffrey Ballet, John Cullerton, John Harris, John McMahan, John Nichols, Joynt, Jules Perrot, Julie Latsko, Kate Siskel, Kate Wild, Kelly Loeffler, Ken Norgan, Ken Shanoff, King Harris, King Louis XIV, Kristina McGrath, Lanvin, Legally Blonde, Leon Kinloch, Linda Johnson Rice, Lindy Keiser, Lovie Smith, Lynn McMahan, Macy's, Marc Klutznick, Marilyn Vitale, Marion McCormick, Mark Giangreco, Marlene Iglitzen, Martha Melman, Mary Agnes Laguatan, Mary Smithe, MaryAnne Smith, Mayor Emanuel, MCA, Melissa Sage Fadim, Mellody Hobson, Meryl Streep, Michael Keiser, Michael Tiknis, Michelle Cucchiaro, Mike McGrath, Mila Samokhina, Millennium Park, Nancy Slattery, Nicole Kidman, Northern Trust, Oscar, Pam Crutchfield, Paris Opera Ballet, Pat Quinn, Patrick Ryan, Paul Iacono, Phil Lumpkin, Playboy, Playmate Photo Special, Pleasantville, Raising Arizona, Reese Witherspoon, Renaissance Award, Rich Varnes, Richard Sandor, River East Art Center, RMHCCNI, Robert Downey Jr., Ronald McDonald House, Roopa Weber, Rosie Levin, SAIC, Sheila O’Grady, Shelby Chesnes, Sherren Leigh, Shirley, Shirley Ryan, Sonya Jackson, Soul Children of Chicago, Splendor in the Grass, Stanford, Stephanie Harris, Steve Young, Summer Lovin’, Susan Downey, Sweet Home Alabama, T. Bone Burnett, The Man in the Moon, Theophile Gautier, Tim Smithe, Tony Jones, United Airlines, Walk the Line, Walt Whitman, Watch312.com, Water for Elephants, Will Siskel

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!

Leave a comment

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

June 13, 2012 · 9:39 am

A FANTASY ISLAND FOR FRIENDS OF PRENTICE GALA

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

With a theme like “Fantasy Island,” it was no surprise that this fun-filled and visual feast attracted more than 800 supporters to the 26th annual Friends of Prentice benefit at Navy Pier recently. Co-chairs Erica Goldman, Chris Newton and Stan Pillman outdid themselves in the planning and event décor specialist extraordinaire Derrick Taylor created a fantasy world that included something special around every corner. Beginning with the cocktail reception and silent auction, the Digging for Diamonds raffle was a magnet for guests who dug in a giant sandbox for all sorts of “bling” with tiny golden shovels. The raffle giveaway was a trip for two to Mexico. Additionally, guests could contribute to the Giving Tree, a faux palm tree with leaves that could be pulled off to make donations to fund services at the Prentice Ambulatory Care Center, which provides pre- and post-natal care to low-income women. The silent auction had hundreds of items where you could find anything your heart desired including tickets to Lollapalooza (which has been sold out for weeks!), tickets to the Ryder Cup (another sold out event), tickets to the Kids’ Choice Awards in L.A., John Oates and Lyle Lovett concert tix, restaurant packages (including dinners at Nellcote, Paris Club, A Tavola and more), a Joffrey Ballet package and getaways to Michigan, London, New Hampshire and Ireland. As guests headed into the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, event planner Derrick Taylor (whose company, Taylor & Company, is owned by co-chair Erica Goldman) had planned some delicious surprises. First of all, partygoers were lei-ed with orchids before entering into a tropical, elegant beach- themed paradise through a tunnel ending with a faux “waterfall” complete with sounds of the ocean. Tables were adorned with five-foot-tall palm fronds, candles and crystal candelabras much to the delight of guests. I was privileged to participate in the live auction portion of the evening with Mary Gallo (Prentice board member and account director for global retail leisure and luxury sales with Starwood Hotels) and star auctioneer, Greg Dellinger, aka G-Man. (If you have any events that require the services of an auctioneer, do yourself a favor: he’s your guy!) The live auction included a never-before-offered package at the St. Regis NY with a stay in the Tiffany Suite. There was also an amazing Napa Valley wine lover’s package, an Italian dinner package at Piccolo Sogno and a trip to Mexico at the luxurious St. Regis Resort Punta Mita. I was also honored to present a moving video tribute that featured Alex and Mike Jacobson: They had lost twin boys who were born prematurely but the loving care and support they received at Prentice moved them to join the Board in appreciation. (In October, Alex gave birth to a healthy baby boy.) As the pirates moved into the dancing crowd with gift bags, the great band Maggie Speaks kept the music pumping. What a great night for charity in Chicago! This event raised $1 million to fund groundbreaking research, clinical care programs and advanced educational opportunities at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Prentice Women’s Hospital. To view ALL pics from this amazing evening, please click here!

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

The annual Mad Hatter Luncheon benefitting the Service Club of Chicago filled the elegant Chicago Club on Van Buren with 260 ladies sporting all varieties of chapeaux! Chaired for the second year by SC member Sherry Lea Holson, this event also featured private hat collections by renowned designer Raymond Hudd which were on loan from collectors Mary Robak, Iris Sholder and Eia Radosavljevic. While the ladies sipped cocktails and browsed the collection, a panel of judges that included Bill Zwecker, Robin Robinson and Elizabeth Hamel selected winners in various categories. The Most Original hat award went to Tammy Beeler; the Most Fashionable was worn by Sarena Weil; Best Spring Ensemble was won by Rosa Guidarelli; the Best Fascinator was awarded to Jessica Priego and the Mad Hatter’s Choice was awarded to Hazel Barr. The winners won beautiful hats donated by beloved milliner Loreta Corsetti, Laura Whitlock Millinery, Carlucci Millinery; Jenny Pfanenstiel of Former Millinery and, last but least, Nicole Betti of Gold Coast Couture. SC Prez Vonita Reescer welcomed the guests and introduced speaker Jenny Pfanenstiel who delighted the ladies with a lecture on “The Hat Life of Raymond Hudd.” During the presentation, models from Zzazz Productions (Tracy Tarantino) walked throughout the venue wearing the hats on display. Each guest received a note holder and pen set and the floral
basket centerpieces were donated and created by Arturo from Lord & Mary Florist of Lake Forest. (Photos by John Reilly Studios…view more here!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Chicago magazine will present the 12th annual Summer Lovin’ event on Friday, June 15th, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 7 to10:30 p.m. Auxiliary Board President Laura Beres said, “Our sponsors and the magazine’s featured singles provide Chicago’s young professionals with an unforgettable evening of food, drinks and fun!” NBC 5’s Stefan Holt and Cheryl Scott will be the emcees and Watch312 (Candid Candace Chicago) will be there to cover all the fun! For tickets ($85) and more info, please click here.

Wags to Wishes’ inaugural dinner and auction benefit will be held on Saturday, June 16th, at the Meadows Club, located at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows, Ill. from 6 to10 p.m. This event will benefit Young at Heart Pet Rescue, an organization dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of senior dogs and cats. As the only rescue dedicated exclusively to older animals, they have provided “happily ever afters” for close to 500 senior dogs and cats that would’ve otherwise been euthanized in traditional shelters. For tickets ($65) and more info, please click here!

Congrats to Chicago author Jodee Blanco, on her latest and very timely book, “Please Stop Laughing at Me.” This book tells her compelling personal story about being bullied as a child. Attorney General Lisa Madigan interviewed Jodee and outlined initiatives taken to counter cyber bullying at Studio Paris at The Paris Club with more than 200 guests in attendance. To order Jodee’s book, please click here.

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

1 Comment

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

Tagged as 101.9 The Mix, A Posh Night at Annabel’s, A Tavola, AJ Johnson, Alex Jacobson, Allison Rosati, Amy Wimer, Andrea Metcalf, Anita Brown, Anjali Pint, Annabel’s, Anthony Ponce, Art Smith, Arturo, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Ben Folds Five, Bill Rancic, Bill Zwecker, Bob Zentner, Borris Powell, Brad Ingram, Bridal Wave Season 2, Brielle Buchberg, Bright Pink, Bunky Cushing, C.Z. Guest, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Career Transitions Center of Chicago, Carlucci Millinery, Cathy Elward, Charles Hocevar, Chefs and the City, Cheryl Scott, Chicago Club, Chicago magazine, Chicagolicious, Chris Newton, Claire Kenneally, Comcast, Common Threads, Cornelia Guest, Cornelia Guest’s Simple Pleasures, Cynthia King, Dean Richards, Derrick Taylor, Diane Hollingsworth, Digging for Diamonds, Dina Eastwood, Dori Wilson, Doug Psaltis, Dr. David Donnesberger, Dr. Joel Sugar, Dr. Stacie McClane, Dusty Stemer, Early Birds & Bookworms, Ed Wlodarczyk, Eia Radosavljevic, Elizabeth Hamel, Eric Ferguson, Erica Goldman, Erica Strama, Fantasy Island, Fellow to the Royal Society of the Arts, Former Millinery, Friends of Prentice, Gibson Group, Giuliana & Bill, Giuliana Rancic, Giving Tree, Global Alliance for Africa, Gold Coast Couture, Greg Dellinger, Hazel Barr, Heinz Kern, Helen Applegate, Horizons for Youth, Illinois Eye-Bank Gala, Ira Scheck, Iris Sholder, Jane Addams Senior Caucus, Jean Schlumberger, Jeff Schear, Jenny Pfanenstiel, Jerrod Melman, Jessica Priego, Jodee Blanco, Joe Aguilera, Joffrey Ballet, John Oates, John Regas, John Reilly, John Reilly Studios, Karmin, Kathleen Henson, Keith Magee, Kelli Zink, Ken Brown, Ken Norgan, Kenmore Dream Kitchen, Kenmore Studios, Kids’ Choice Awards, Langham Hotel, Larisa Kronfeld, Laura Beres, Laura Whitlock Millinery, Leslie Zentner, Life House, Linda Heister, Linda Novick O'Keefe, Lindsay Avner, Lindsay Segal, Liza Zito, Lollapalooza, Lord & Mary Florist of Lake Forest, Loreta Corsetti, Lori Daniels, Luis Gomez, Luxury Garage Sale, Lyle Lovett, Lynda Silverman, Lynn McMahan, Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party, Mad Hatter Luncheon, Maggie Speaks, Mamie Walton, Marcus Riley, Mary Ann Rose, Mary Astor Smithe, Mary Gallo, Mary Lasky, Mary Robak, Meadows Club, Megan McKinney, Mike Jacobson, Mitchell Canoff, Molly Melman, Moosa Reaume, Mrs. Eastwood & Co., Museum of Contemporary Art, Myra Reilly, Napa Valley, Natalie Martinez, National Public Housing Museum, Nellcote, Nick O’Keefe, Nicole Betti, Nina Mariano, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Old St. Pat’s, Paris Club, Peninsula, Peter Latz, Phipps Steel, Piccolo Sogno, Please Stop Laughing at Me, Prentice Ambulatory Care Center, Prentice Women’s Hospital, Pump Room, Ralph Applegate, Randolph Street Market, Ravi Baichwal, Raymond Hudd, Rich Varnes, Richard Roeper, RJ Melman, RL restaurant, Rob Stafford, Robin Robinson, Robin Thicke, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Rosa Guidarelli, RPM Italian, Ryan Chiaverini, Ryan Pitts, Ryan Poli, Ryder Cup, Sarena Weil, Service Club of Chicago, Shane Talbot, Sherren Leigh, Sherrill Bodine, Sherry Lea Holson, St. Regis NY, St. Regis Resort Punta Mita, Stan Pillman, Stanley Paul, Starwood Hotels, Stefan Holt, Studio Paris, Style Network, Summer Lovin’, Suzanne LeMignot, Tammy Beeler, Tarrah Cooper, Tavernita, The Debutante’s Guide to Life, Tiffani Kim, Tiffany & Co., Tiffany Suite, Tim Smithe, Tom Gorman, Tom Segesta, Toni Canada, Tracey Tarantino, Vital Bridges, Vonita Reescer, Walter E. Smithe, Warren Barr, Watch312.com. Wags to Wishes, Winston Churchill, Winston Frederick Churchill Guest, World’s Largest Block Party, Young at Heart Pet Rescue, Zarada Gowenlock, ZZAZZ Productions

May 14, 2012 · 9:47 am

THE JOFFREY BALLET’S CELEBRATION GALA RAISES $1.336 MILLION

…PLUS AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S DISCOVERY BALL, ADLER PLANETARIUM HONORS DYNAMO, CHEFS NIGHT OUT FOR COMMON THREADS, A NIGHT IN BLUE & WHITE WITH CARDINAL FRANCIS GEORGE, DUPAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CELEBRATION, WOMEN IN ENTERTAINMENT, FASHION COLUMBIA 2012, STELLA FOSTER HONOR, PLAYBOY SAYS GOODBYE AND MORE!

The Joffrey Ballet’s Celebration Gala honored the 10th anniversary of its Women’s Board at the legendary Palmer House Hilton on Sunday, May 6th. The grand affair began at the Auditorium Theatre with a special performance created by artistic director Ashley Wheater. Beginning with George Balanchines’ “Stars & Stripes,” this segment included a uniformed Ashley dancing and then stepping out of the line to deliver his opening remarks to a surprised and appreciative crowd. It was one of my favorite performances so far, maybe because the evening was so special to me personally since this was my fifth Joffrey event co-chairing with Helen Melchior. We started planning this benefit two months or so before. Our co-chairs were chosen for their dynamism and willingness to work hard to bring this vision to light. They included Donna LaPietra, designer Pamella Roland DeVos, Victoria Holdren, Mary Pat Burns, Liz Sharp, Joan Colmar, Kate Bensen, Leslie Hindman, Jan Melk, Anne Kaplan, Nancy Gottlieb Bauer and Mary Jo Basler. Maureen Dwyer Smith served as 10th Anniversary Chair. Donna LaPietra (Kurtis Productions) created a remarkable tribute video which was shown during the Gala dinner. It contained archival photos as well as taped comments from Nate Berkus (who had hosted the first two Couture & Cocktails), Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Ashley Wheater, executive director Christopher Clinton Conway, the Joffrey dancers and dancers from the Bridge and Exelon Strobel Step Up programs. There were also photos and video clips from past Women’s Board events as well as member photos. In short, it was a collection of treasured memories from the past 10 years of the Women’s Board. There were many firsts for this event starting with the fact that it was held on a Sunday. This date happened to coincide with the closing performance of the season and, typically, the Junior Auxiliary Board hosts an event to celebrate this occasion. Because of this fact and because we felt it would be a great idea to combine forces, we partnered with the JAB (for the first time) for the Grande Finale party in the Empire Room. From beginning to end, the night was a true celebration in the style the Joffrey is known for. With exquisite décor by Tom Kehoe Designs, the room literally glowed with white orchids and lilies filling lighted crystal vases throughout the Grand Ballroom. Mayor Emanuel welcomed the crowd and mentioned his brief moment in time as a Joffrey dancer. Then Helen and I thanked our co-chairs, committee, sponsors, Women’s Board and, of course, the dancers who inspire us every day. Una Jackman, a producer of the film “Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance,” was the recipient of the Arpino Angel Award. This event was the Joffrey's second largest fundraiser, after the 50th anniversary gala in 2006, raising more than $1.336 million!!!! (Special thanks to Pomellato jewels (41 E. Oak St.), Alayna Washington Crenshaw and Women’s Board member Christina Gilberti for making me feel like a fairy princess! I wore a rose gold bracelet recently worn by J. Lo, from their Tango line consisting of 30 carats of brown diamonds worth $101K with matching earrings ($22K). Also thanks to Bill Zwecker for the great write-up about the event and my jewels in his Sun-Times column! My black dress, which, coincidentally, slightly resembled a tutu, was from STRUT Boutique at 2549 N. Clark St. (owner Niala Conte has fabulous style and chooses beautiful pieces with budget friendly prices) and my elegant co-chair, Helen Hall Melchior, wore Jason Wu (from Nordstrom) to perfection! (Thanks to Mila Samokhina and Bob Carl for these great pics; to see more photos on Chicago Now, please click here!)

The Discovery Ball at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel attracted a crowd of more than 700 guests and 200 dedicated volunteers to benefit the American Cancer Society on Saturday, April 28th. The evening began with co-chairs Anna and Greg Brown (chairman and CEO of Motorola Solutions) welcoming guests to a VIP reception. Brown introduced the evening’s emcee, CNBC’s Maria Bartiromo, who is the first reporter to ever broadcast live from the floor of the NY Stock Exchange. After the reception, guests perused more than 200 silent auction items before moving into the ballroom with a Hamptons theme. Heffernan Morgan’s décor was inspired by the Browns’ home in Cape Cod. Anna wanted a clean elegant look to the event which featured blue hydrangeas and candles inside hurricane vases – it was gorgeous! In 2006, the first Discovery Ball was co-chaired by Motorola CEO Ed Zander and his wife, Mona, and last year, the Zanders were the honorees when the event hit the $10 million mark. Comedian Kevin Nealon was the featured entertainment and he had the crowd in stitches. At one point, he helped sell a Tiffany diamond cocktail ring, modeled by gorgeous Veronica Zepeda, for $30K to a lucky bidder! Iron Chef Bobby Flay flew in from NY to participate in a live auction package that included a dinner for 14 prepared in the winner’s home. This popular live auction package was the hit of the night, selling to three bidders for a total of $218K! Another “live” auction package – a darling silver Labrador puppy – sold to co-chair Greg Brown for $35K. Other packages included a trip to Australia ($22K), a Phil Mickelson golf package ($16K) and a trip for two to the 2012 Olympic Games in London ($24K). Notables seen on the scene included Bill Daley, Kim Duchossois, Kristina and Mike McGrath (who donated a 2013 Acura RDX for the event), Ramona and Dan Ustian, Victoria and Gary Holdren, Ashley Bond and Matthew Pritzker, Blackhawks’ Coach Joel Quenneville with wife Elizabeth, Oracio Marquez, Nancy and Michael Reinsdorf, Sonya Jackson and Kathleen and Mike Henson. Approximately $2.7 million was raised on this night to support the American Cancer Society, aka “The Official Sponsor of Birthdays.” For more info, please visit www.cancer.org. (Fab photos by Mila Samokhina…click here to view more!)

For the 10th year, the Women’s Board of the Adler Planetarium held its Women in Space Science Award Celebration luncheon at the Union League Club recently. The event honors women’s accomplishments in the fields of science and technology and, this year, honored Dr. France A. Cordova, president of Purdue University and the first woman to lead the institution. Dr. Cordova is a former NASA chief scientist, a Senate-confirmed member of the National Science Board and also a member of the Smithsonian Institution Board of Regents! Following the luncheon, this inspiring woman met with 250 middle school girls from Chicago Public Schools at the Adler. Chairs for this 2012 WISS celebration were Teri Monte and Lisa Jozwiak; committee members included Nancy Temple, Cynthia Ballew, Elaine Cottey, Courtney Pitt, Pamela Pohl, Meg Prendergast, Donna Beering, Linda Celesia, Sarah Fritz, Caroline Becker and Lisa Lewis. The Adler Planetarium – America’s FIRST Planetarium – was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. For more than 80 years, the Adler has inspired the next generation of explorers by sharing the personal stories of space exploration and America’s space heroes.

Common Threads' Annual Black Tie Gala was held at the River West hotspot, Nellcote. Culinary rock stars for the evening included chefs Jose Garces (smoked oyster soup), Paul Kahan (Dungeness crab salad), Michael Laiskonis (black sesame panna cotta), Bill Telepan (Normandy duck with foie gras custard), Jared Van Kamp (rib eye with Perigueux sauce) and Marc Vetri (ravioli with fava beans). One hundred twenty elegant guests attended this $1,000-per-person event and enjoyed a six-course seated dinner with wine pairings plus a performance by JC Brooks & Uptown Sound. Hosted by Gwen Farinella, Anne Hokin, Sonya Jackson, Brook Jay and Linda Levine, the evening raised more than $140K for Common Threads! (To view more pics from this event, please click here!)

"A Night in Blue and White" began with a beautiful solemn high mass said by Cardinal Francis George at St. Ferdinand's on the Northwest Side Tuesday, May 8th. “I always love coming back to the NW side where I grew up,” said Cardinal George. “Founded 75 years ago at the end of the Great Depression, it took a great deal of hope for the sisters to come here when there wasn't much hope around. My father always had
a job but he didn't always get paid.” Established in 1937 by the order founded by St. Julie Billiart (the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur), Notre Dame High School for Girls is a small (81 students), all-girls college prep high school. They boast a 16 to 1 student-teacher ratio with 65 percent of the faculty and staff holding master’s degrees or higher. The Class of 2011 earned more than $1.1 million in scholarships and awards towards higher education. On this night, the celebration continued after mass in the auditorium with Cardinal George being surprised by Chair Emeritus Dia Weil with a birthday cake and students singing “Happy Birthday.” (Even though his birthday was in January, they still celebrated their 75th year together.) Ariel Reboyras, Alderman of the 30th Ward, was on hand to offer congratulations along with past alums…some from as far back as the Class of 1943. Avanti Gourmet Catering and Oak Mill Bakery provided a delicious buffet for the evening. Molly Socha from ND's Development Office helped coordinate the event with help from students, faculty and staff along with Michelle Durpetti of Michelle Durpetti Events. It was truly a night of joyous celebration as the high school seniors excitedly spoke about the colleges they would be attending as well as how much they would miss “this fine school that has taught them so much.” Congrats to co-chairs, Noreen Musica and Susan Miller, for this delightful celebration! To learn more about this wonderful institution, please click here. I was honored to be included. 🙂

The DuPage Children’s Museum hosted its Champions for Children Benefit Ball at Hotel Arista in Naperville. Presented under the sparkling stars of a dramatic Venetian night, the black tie optional benefit was a glamorous night of live entertainment, unique auction items and special honorees, all to support educating young children. Emceed by ABC 7’s Judy Hsu, the evening honored the late Dorothy Carpenter, who co-founded DCM with Louise Beem. Last year’s Honorary Chairs, Tom and Brenda Harter, introduced this year’s 2012 Benefit Ball Honorary Chair, Amy Louis. The Museum impacts children’s lives by providing educational programs for 40,000 school children and welcomes more than 300,000 visitors per year. (To view additional pics from this event, please click here!)

A big thank you to Sheila Henley for including me in her W.IN.E (Women in Entertainment) Forum TV segment! Sheila created W.IN.E by asking one simple question: “Where are the women in entertainment and what do they have to say about the industry?” With that, Ms. Henley started the W.IN.E newsletter, which grew to become the W.IN.E magazine and now, W.IN.E TV. Sheila says, “W.IN.E TV has a commitment to be a platform for women who are visionaries and pioneers in their field of entertainment and to encourage and provide role models for women, as well as men. This platform will allow women to share their successes and failures of making it in this dynamic industry. W.IN.E TV will encourage and promote content that will be suitable for all ages. W.IN.E has been a voice for women in entertainment for almost 12 years.”(Visit W.IN.E TV on You Tube and check out my segment here!)

Congratulations to wonderful writer Margie Wilson-Mars for her beautiful and lovingly-written article for Gather News about Playboy leaving Chicago titled “Hugh Hefner and Playboy Say a Bittersweet Goodbye to Chicago.” She has known Hef since she was five years old having met him and Barbie Benton when they took a trip to Disneyland. Her father and mother used to have parties at their home in Miami and many of the Playmates would attend. Margie became a fan saying, “I would sneak out of the room in awe of these glamorous women, just to get a peek at the clothes, hair, etc.” Her article is a must-read for Playboy fans and I was honored to be included.

Our own Stella Foster, Sun-Times columnist extraordinaire, will be honored with the 2012 Dante Award at a luncheon hosted by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans at Galleria Marchetti, located at 825 W. Erie, on Thursday, May 17th, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased by calling 708.450.9050 or by emailing jcc@jccia.com. JCCIA’s illustrious members include Dominic DiFrisco (President Emeritus), Antonio Romanucci (President) and Jo Ann Serpico (Executive Director).

Join Desiree Rogers for Columbia College’s premiere spring fundraising event, Fashion Columbia 2012, on Friday, June 8th beginning at 7 p.m. This event will feature the work of students in the Fashion Studies program with net proceeds benefitting the newly established Eunice W. Johnson Scholarship Fashion Studies Fund. Jewelry designer Lana Bramlette (Class of ’97), will be honored with the Alumni Achievement in Fashion Design Award, as her Lana Jewelry line is worn by celebs and fashionistas around the globe. Host committee members include Trish Rooney Alden, Madele
ine Moore Burrell, Gwendolyn Butler, Nora Daley, Susan Downing, Ikram Goldman, MK Pritzker, Shawnelle Ritchie, Julie Latsko, Rich Gamble, Diane Primo, and Mellody Hobson among others. General admission tickets are $150 per person, VIP tickets are $250 and standing room only tickets are $75. For more info, please click here.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace! Please send any information on events, parties or people YOU would like to see covered to Candace@CandidCandace.com! And, as always…

Love,
Candace 🙂

P.S. Congrats to beloved photographer, Amie Hana, on her recent feature in Marie Claire Magazine titled "Call Me a Professional." Her work is well known in Chicago and now the world will know of her incredible talents too! Check out one of her recent portfolio pics from "Red Riding Hood in Venice" – in a word: SPELLBINDING! Congrats, Amie!

1 Comment

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

Tagged as 2012 Dante Award, 2012 Olympic Games, A Night in Blue and White, Alayna Washington Crenshaw, Alumni Achievement in Fashion Design Award, American Cancer Society, Amie Hana, Amy Louis, Anna Brown, Anne Hokin, Anne Kaplan, Antonio Romanucci, Ariel Reboyras, Arpino Angel Award, Ashley Bond, Ashley Wheater, Avanti Gourmet Catering, Barbie Benton, Bill Daley, Bill Telepan, Bill Zwecker, Black Tie Gala, Bob Carl, Bobby Flay, Brenda Harter, Bridge, Brook Jay, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Cape Cod, Cardinal Francis George, Caroline Becker, Celebration Gala, Champions for Children Benefit Ball, Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Now, Chicago Sun-Times, Christina Gilberti, Christopher Clinton Conway, CNBC, Columbia College, Common Threads, Courtney Pitt, Cynthia Ballew, Dan Ustian, Desiree Rogers, Dia Weil, Diane Primo, Discover Ball, Dominic DiFrisco, Donna Beering, Donna LaPietra, Dorothy Carpenter, Dr. France A. Cordova, DuPage Children’s Museum, Ed Zander, Elaine Cottey, Elizabeth Quenneville, Eunice W. Johnson Scholarship Fashion Studies Fund, Exelon Strobel Step Up, Fashion Columbia 2012, Galleria Marchetti, Gary Holdren, Gather News, George Balanchines, Greg Brown, Gwen Farinella, Gwendolyn Butler, Hamptons, Heffernan Morgan, Helen Melchior, Hugh Hefner and Playboy Say a Bittersweet Goodbye to Chicago, Ikram Goldman, Iron Chef, Jan Melk, Jared Van Kamp, Jason Wu, JC Brooks & Uptown Sound, Jennifer Lopez, Jo Ann Serpico, Joan Colmar, Joel Quenneville, Joffrey Ballet, Joffrey Women’s Board, Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Jose Garces, Judy Hsu, Julie Latsko, Junior Auxiliary Board, Kate Bensen, Kathleen Henson, Kevin Nealon, Kim Duchossois, Kristina McGrath, Kurtis Productions, Lana Bramlette, Leslie Hindman, Linda Celesia, Linda Levine, Lisa Jozwiak, Lisa Lewis, Liz Sharp, Louise Beem, Madeleine Moore Burrell, Marc Vetri, Margie Wilson-Mars, Maria Bartiromo, Marie Claire, Mary Jo Basler. Maureen Dwyer Smith, Mary Pat Burns, Matthew Pritzker, Max Adler, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Meg Prendergast, Mellody Hobson, Michael Laiskonis, Michael Reinsdorf, Michelle Durpetti, Michelle Durpetti Events, Mike Henson, Mike McGrath, Mila Samokhina, MK Pritzker, Molly Socha, Mona Zander, Motorola Solutions, Nancy Gottlieb Bauer, Nancy Reinsdorf, Nancy Temple, NASA, Nate Berkus, National Science Board, Nellcote, Niala Conte, Nora Daley, Nordstrom, Noreen Musica, Notre Dame High School for Girls, Oak Mill Bakery, Oracio Marquez, Palmer House Hilton, Pamela Pohl, Pamella Roland DeVos, Paul Kahan, Phil Mickelson, Playboy, Pomellato, Purdue University, Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Ramona Ustian, Rich Gamble, Sarah Fritz, Shawnelle Ritchie, Sheila Henley, Smithsonian Institution Board of Regents, Sonya Jackson, St. Jilie Billiart, Stella Foster, STRUT Boutique, Susan Downing, Susan Miller, Teri Monte, Tiffany & Co., Tom Barter, Tom Kehoe Designs, Trish Rooney Alden, Una Jackman, Union League Club, Veronica Zepeda, Victoria Holdren, W.IN.E Forum TV, Women in Entertainment, Women in Space Science Award Celebration, Women’s Board of the Adler Planetarium, You Tube

May 3, 2012 · 10:11 am

STARS SHINE IN CHICAGO FOR THE HUGO TELEVISION AWARDS

…PLUS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS’ GRANDE SOIREE, CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY, LADYBUG BASH, A THEATER COMPANY YOU SHOULD KNOW, WTTW DEBUT'S HOT NEW SHOW, NOMI’S HOT LIST HONOR, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Beyond the International Film Festival and now in its 48th year, the Hugo Television Awards is an international television competition that culminated in a grand gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua recently honoring the best television commercials and productions from nine countries around the world. Co-hosted by Cinema/Chicago and the IFF, the highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to actor Kelsey Grammer. Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Grammer included video highlights and the award presentation by his longtime "Frasier" co-star, John Mahoney. Earlier in the year, Grammer received the Golden Globe for Best Actor in the Chicago-based drama series “Boss” as Mayor Tom Kane. As Dr. Frasier Crane, he played the celebrated character in three television series ("Wings," "Cheers," and "Frasier") for more than 20 years. He’s won four Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations and 16 SAG nominations and he is the first actor in TV history to receive multiple Emmy nods for performing the same role on three series! (Not surprising, since he received his training at the prestigious Juilliard School of the Performing Arts.) Michael Kutza, founder and artistic director of Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago IFF, said, “For decades Kelsey Grammer has entertained us — across genres and media he has proven himself to be a remarkable talent. From the stage to the screen, from behind the camera to our television, Grammer has provided audiences with some of our most beloved, iconic characters. We are thrilled to honor him for his television work at the Hugos.” Judging from the banks of media at the event, everyone agreed! We could barely squeeze our Watch312.com cameras onto the red carpet but we managed to get some great interviews with Mahoney, Grammer and Grammer’s “Boss” co-star Rotimi Akinosho. Kelsey was accompanied by his beautiful wife, Kayte (whose name he had tattooed on his abdomen that day to much fanfare), and who is expecting twins. She couldn’t have been more gracious and when he was asked what his inspiration was replied, “She is.” They never stopped holding hands and he kissed her at every opportunity. It was so sweet. Following the red carpet, guests were ushered into the ballroom after enjoying a cocktail reception. Darling co-hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (of “Windy City Live”) welcomed the crowd of 400 and introduced event founder, Michael Kutza, who said, “It was funny thinking back to 1965 when Mr. Leo Burnett himself helped me start the TV Festival and to see so many awards going to some fantastic Leo Burnett spots tonight!” Leo Burnett had the most wins of the evening (24), winning Silver Hugos for “Active Duty” (a heartwarming Hallmark commercial) and “Mayhem” (a series of Allstate commercials featuring actor Dean Winters). Other top winners included a Gold Hugo for the documentary series, “Have You Heard from Johannesburg” (about anti-apartheid in South Africa) directed by Connie Field. Director Magdalena Lazarkiewicz (“The Deep End”) traveled all the way from Poland to receive her Gold Hugo in the Dramatic Series category. David Hyde Pierce also made a surprise video appearance telling Grammer, “I’m so frustrated that you’re there tonight being honored and I can’t stop them!” (He went on to say that he did hope Grammer ran for office.) Production company powerhouse Optimus won the Commitment to Excellence Award while the Audience Choice award went to Burrell Communications for “A Frosty Affair,” a McDonald’s commercial about meeting someone special over a McFrappe. The after-party continued in the Felini Bar with everyone from Hugo winners to John Mahoney taking turns in the photo booth. Event producer Alex Kopecky did a great job putting the whole show together and Carol Fox and Associates’ Carly Leviton and Nick Harkin did an outstanding job as well. I can’t wait to see the surprises Michael Kutza brings to Chicago next! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and be sure to check out our Watch312.com video of this cool event below!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D39712%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Legendary jewelers, Van Cleef & Arpels, recently hosted “une grande soiree” for 100 lucky Chicagoans to celebrate the opening of their beautiful new boutique in the Drake Hotel. Van Cleef & Arpels’ handsome president/CEO of the Americas and worldwide creative director Nicolas Bos and chic store director Sheryl Dyer were on hand to meet guests and wax poetic about this iconic brand that has been a favorite of celebrities and royalty for decades. Nicolas Luchsinger (VP of retail operations for the Americas), Brent Nestor (senior VP of sales) and Kristina Buckley (VP of communications) also flew in for this grand occasion. For over a century, the Place Vendome location has been at the forefront with a signature style and a mastery of the craft of fine jewelry inspired by the longstanding themes of the House, nature, couture and the arts. I was so proud that Watch312 was the exclusive media outlet for this event. As high-profile guests mixed and mingled in the exquisite jewel box boutique, it was the jewelry that was the star of the night. The pieces are never as they seem, with earrings that can be worn as brooches, necklaces that can be reassembled into bracelets or the famous zip necklace that is an engineering marvel, all of the jewelry is created with extreme attention to detail and of the highest quality gems and stones. I was thrilled to wear an exquisite necklace and earring set from Oiseaux de Paradis Volutes collection for the night and felt like Cinderella until the very end when I turned back into a pumpkin. It is true that high jewelry is empowering…I even felt taller. 🙂 The event was co-hosted by the lovely MaryAnne Smith, a champion of the soon-to-be-opened Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Children’s Hospital on June 26th, and Lesli Falk, chair of Children Memorial’s Medical Research Institute Council. After cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the boutique, guests were led to the Palm Court which had been transformed by Tom Kehoe into a Parisian salon complete with languid models draped over ivory chairs in chic gowns created by French designer Gaspard Yurkievich. In earlier times, women’s fashions were designed to match their jewelry as was the case on this night. Factor models floated around the room showcasing millions of dollars’ worth of exquisite gems to appreciative guests as they sipped champagne in this flower-filled room to the sounds of a string quartet. It was truly surreal. And as if this weren’t enough, we were then ushered into the Gold Coast Room for the main event. Sharp intakes of breath emanated from every guest upon seeing this already magnificent room transformed as if for Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee dinner! I’ve never seen anything like it. A long, single table was brimming with flowers, candles, crystal and silver while the sparkling chandeliers above had been dimmed and spotlighted with pale colored lights. The room literally glowed…I heard several people mumbling that “had they known this event would be like this, they would’ve dressed better!” And the menu seemed to be something that would be served at Buckingham Palace, too, beginning with quenelles of Lake Erie Pike, diver scallops, morel mushrooms and Beluga caviar. Main course: Kobe Filet and foie gras, local farmed asparagus, haricot verts, roasted shallot pommes Dauphines with Bordeaux reduction. Dessert included a trio of miniature desserts, charlotte russe, hand churned salted caramel ice cream and passion fruit crème brulee. (And the sweetest part, pun intended, the plates all carried this message: “To Chicago, Love Paris.”) Wines served featured Pascal Jolivet, Sancerre (Loire France 2010), Chapoutier Estate “La Petite Ruche” (Crozes Hermitage 2007) and, of course, Taittinger Brut La Francaise (Champagne NV). Guests enjoying the evening and admiring the collections included William Wolf, Martha Melman, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Laura Schwartz, Greg Hyder, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Suzy and Al Friedman, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Carol Beitler, Heather Farley, Paul Rehder, Greg Hyder, Toni and Rick Canada, Susanna Negovan, Mary and Tim Smithe, Heather Farley, Sherren Leigh and Sonya Jackson among others. The new 1,600-square-foot boutique is designed to resemble a luxurious Parisian apartment in muted shades of white and grey. You have to see it to believe it! Long may you reign Van Cleef & Arpels! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here for more!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D39776%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Chicago’s second annual Red Dress Party was held in the Loop recently at the beautiful Joffrey Towers, located at 10 E. Randolph. More than 300 people donned their favorite red fashions to benefit the Aids Foundation of Chicago and the Equality Project. This party began in the 1990's when two gentlemen who were dating discovered they had both contracted HIV/AIDS. They swore to one another they would each wear red dresses to their partner's funeral. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently, there are Red Dress parties all over the U.S. from Seattle to Chicago. The highlight of the evening was a performance by Beverly McClellan, who was a contestant in the Final 4 on the first season of the popular NBC show, “The Voice.” “The Voice” introduced Beverly to the world as a singer of stunning power and range comparable to Etta James, Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge to name a few talents whose legacies she evokes. The party also included a dramatic aerial act and a decadent VIP Red Carpet reception hosted by the beloved Miss Lucy Foozie. Ginger Zee (“Good Morning America” meteorologist) and actor/singer Christian Carabias were the hosts for the evening. Event chair and board president Kyler Ashton Powell sang a memorable duet with McClellan to Cee Lo Green’s “F*ck You” song. Dedicated host committee members included Adiat Baker, Katie Cahnmann, Kyle Hillman, Terrence Chappell, Marco Foster, Julianne Glatz, Cece Gonzales, Melinda Joseph, Haley Lertola, Jerry Nunn, Ramsey Jay Prince, Arabel Alva Rosales, Mark Roscoe and Hilary Schwartz. (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here and to donate and learn more about this great cause, please visit www.reddressparty.org.)

Don’t miss this year’s second annual Ladybug Bash, “Stars & Cars: Hollywood Through the Ages” on Thursday, May 17th at Grossinger City Autoplex, located at 1530 N. Dayton from 7 to 11 p.m. This event benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, which was named after a small, brave princess named Atia, a patient undergoing cancer treatment at Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago. Out of concern for the various non-medical necessities of Comer’s patients and their families, Project Ladybug Fund was established to help meet some of those needs, in the hopes of improving the lives of patients and their families. The event will include a red carpet reception hosted by Project Ladybug founder Dina Manzo with special guests Ana Belaval (WGN’s “Around Town” reporter), Meg Caswell (host of HGTV’s “Meg’s Great Rooms”), Ted Brunson (producer and host of WGN’s “Chicago’s Best,” Alpana Singh (host of WTTW’s “Check Please”), Amber Podell (Ms. Illinois 2012) and Nancy To (Miss Illinois 2012). For tickets and more info, please click here!

Congrats to the Polarity Ensemble Theatre group on a wonderful production of "Tom Jones" at Wicker Park’s Josephinum Academy. Adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer, the six-week run garnered wonderful press from the Chicago Tribune as well as Time Out Chicago! Polarity Ensemble Theatre was founded in 2004 by Richard Engling, Ann Keen and Irv Gorman with the mission of presenting work consisting of the classic and the brand new. It is dedicated to working with Chicago area writers and theatre artists. In addition to producing live theatre, Polarity is also a publisher, having produced its first volume of plays in 2006. Its production of "Hamlet" at the Athenaeum Theater prompted the Chicago Reader to name Polarity the 2008 Best Emerging Theatre Company. Congrats to Charley Jordan and the entire, amazing cast! To follow upcoming PET events, please click here!

More congratulations are in order for the NoMI Spa at the Park Hyatt! Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List – the ultimate insider’s guide to the hottest new hotels, spas and restaurants of the year – has included NoMI Spa in the May issue! To celebrate this recognition, a complimentary glass of champagne will be offered to guests booking spa appointments during the month of May! Just mention #HotList2012 upon booking your appointment! Congrats, congrats, congrats!

There are more parties, fundraisers and events coming up this week than I’ve ever seen! Mark your calendars for the following, if you have the energy!

Thursday May 3rd: Common Threads' “Come Paint It Black Tie” Fundraiser will be held at Nellcote, located at 833 W. Randolph. Tickets are $1,000; visit www.commonthreads.org for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala will be held at Palmer House Hilton beginning with a 6:30 p.m. performance at the Auditorium Theatre and followed by the Gala Dinner, Arpino Angel Award presentation and commemorative video salute. For the first time, the Women’s Board will partner with the Junior Auxiliary Board for a Grand Finale Party following in the Empire Room to celebrate the end of the season for all of the dancers. Tickets are $600 for Gala and $110 for the Grand Finale Party; visit www.joffrey.org/gala and www.joffrey.org/grandefinale for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: See Tom Dreesen’s “Sinatra” at the Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway, for an evening of standup and storytelling of Sinatra. Tickets are $45; call 773.327.3175.

Monday, May 7th: Hubbard St. Dance Chicago’s Spotlight Ball, will take place at the Chicago Hilton. Tickets are $600 by calling 312.553.2000.

Tuesday, May 8th: St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza (its 50th anniversary!) will take place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Tickets are $350 and includes top chef tastings. Call 773-784-6704 for more info.

Wednesday, May 9th: WTTW/WFMT “The British Are Coming” with emcee Jeremy Irons begins with a 60-minute onstage celebration at the Harris Theater (Chicago Children’s Choir, Joffrey Ballet, Under the Streetlamp, etc.) followed by dinner on the Rooftop Terrace. Tickets are $500; call 773.509.5434 for more info.

Thursday, May 10th: The Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon will take place at the Chicago Club. Tickets are $100; learn more at www.serviceclubofchicago.org.

Thursday, May 10th: Taste for the Arts’ 30th Anniversary Gala will be hosted by Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra, Rick and Deann Bayless at the Harris Theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. Chicago Academy for the Arts students will perform on the Rooftop Terrace featuring “Top Chef” chefs (think Stephanie Izard and Rick Bayless) serving up their specialties. Tickets are $350.

Saturday, May 12th: Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala starts 6:30 p.m. at Hilton Chicago. Tickets to the “Lights Camera, Glamour” homage to the films of Rita Hayworth are $500 and can be purchased at www.alz.org/galas/chicago or by calling 312.335.5768.

Saturday, May 12th: RMHC Big Mac Under Glass will be held at the Aragon Ballroom and will star KC & the Sunshine Band. Tickets are $375 at www.ronaldhousechicago.org.

Saturday, May 19th: Campfire Ball will take place at Venue One (located at 1044 W. Randolph) from 7 to 11 p.m. benefitting Children’s Oncology Services will serve all of your favorite camp treats including s’mores, grilled cheese and hot dogs, with DJ and campfire sing-a-longs. Tickets are $85 advanced and $100 at the door; call 312.235.6836 for more info.

I hope to see you at one of more of these wonderful events around town! In the meantime, I hope to see you again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to my talented and gorgeous friend Colleen Kelly on her new WTTW show, “Family Travel with Colleen Kelly.” The premiere is Friday, May 4th at 8:30 p.m. and is the only show WTTW has chosen for a national launch in 2013! And, if you don’t know, Colleen is Catie Keogh’s sister (“24/7”) – must’ve been something in the water! Congrats to TWO talented and beautiful women in the world of media!!

Leave a comment

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Fashion, Food and Drink, Games, Music

Tagged as #HotList2012, 24/7, Adiat Baker, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Al Friedman, Alex Kopecky, Allstate, Alpana Singh, Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala, Amber Podell, Ana Belaval, Ann Keen, Arabel Alva Rosales, Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, Beverly McClellan, Big Mac Under Glass, Bill Kurtis, Boss, Brent Nestor, Brian Babcock, Burrell Communications, Campfire Ball, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carly Leviton, Carol Beitler, Carol Fox & Associates, Catie Keough, Cece Gonzales, Cee Lo Green, Charley Jordan, Cheers, Chicago Children's Choir, Chicago Tribune, Children Memorial’s Medical Research Institute Council, Christian Carabias, Cinema/Chicago, Colleen Kelly, Come Paint It Black Tie, Comer Children’s Hospital, Common Threads, Conde Nast Traveler, Connie Field, David Hammond, David Hyde Pierce, Deann Bayless, Dina Manzo, Donna LaPietra, Dr. Frasier Crane, Equality Project, Factor, Family Travel with Colleen Kelly, Frasier, Gaspard Yurkievich, Ginger Zee, Golden Globe, Greg Hyder, Haley Lertola, Hallmark, Have You Heard from Johannesburg, Heather Farley, Hilary Schwartz, Hot List, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Hugo Television Awards, International Film Festival, Irv Gorman, Jeremy Irons, Jerry Nunn, Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala, Joffrey Ballet, John Mahoney, Josephinum Academy, Julianne Glatz, Katie Cahnmann, Kayte Grammer, KC and the Sunshine Band, Kelsey Grammer, Kristina Buckley, Kyle Hillman, Ladybug Bash, Laura Schwartz, Lesli Falk, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Lights Camera Glamour, Linda Yu, Lurie Children's Hospital, Mad Hatter Luncheon, Magdalena Lazarkiewicz, Maggie Speer, Marco Foster, Mark Roscoe, Mary Smithe, MaryAnn Smith, McDonald’s, Meg Caswell, Melinda Joseph, Melissa Babcock, Meredith Bluhm-Wolf, Michael Kutza, Mila Samokhina, Miss Lucy Foozie, Molly Melman, Nancy To, Nellcote, Nick Harkin, Nicolas Bos, Nicolas Luchsinger, NoMI Spa, Optimus, Park Hyatt, Paul Rehder, Polarity Ensemble Theatre, Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, Raddison Blu Aqua, Ramsey Jay Prince, Red Dress Party, RHMC, Richard Engling, Rick Bayless, Rick Canada, Ronald McDonald House, Rotimi Akinosho, Ryan Chiaverini, Service Club of Chicago, Sherren Leigh, Sheryl Dyer, Sinatra, Sonya Jackson, Spotlight Ball, St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza, Stars & Cars” Hollywood Through the Ages, Stephanie Izard, Steve Starr, Susanna Negovan, Suzy Friedman, Sylvia Perez, Taste for the Arts, Ted Brunson, Terrence Chappell, The British Are Coming, The Voice, Tim Smithe, Time Out Chicago, Tom Dreesen, Tom Jones, Tom Kehoe, Toni Canada, Under the Streetlamp, Val Cleef & Arpels, Val Warner, Watch312.com, William Wolf, Windy City Live, Wings

April 18, 2012 · 1:56 pm

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

…PLUS SWAROVSKI PRESENTS “THE WALK,” STYLE NETWORK’S “CHICAGOLICIOUS,” THE DINNER PARTY, BOYS & GIRL’S CLUBS’ YOUTH OF THE YEAR, HEF'S BD, 300 FEET OF JOFFREY DANCER FABRICE CALMELS (NOT ENOUGH!), THE RED DRESS PARTY, A SMALL-DOG-ONLY PARTY AND MORE!

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

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

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

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

I just love the wonderful work that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago do for our kids! They recently honored 17-year-old Nora Martinez, a General Robert E. Wood club member, as its 2012 Youth of the Year at an awards ceremony at Navy Pier. Martinez lovingly refers to her club located in South Lawndale as “My Little World,” the place that gave her support to achieve her goals in academics and athletics and inspired her to give back to her community. During the speech competition, 10 semi-finalists representing clubs throughout Chicago, shared their challenges, hopes and heartfelt experiences as BGCC members. Besides Nora, members at the event included Michel Lopez, Odalys Garcia, Lucy Onoh, Dajanee Tate, Jeremy O’Brian, Jose Gonzalez, Vincent Poole-Oliphant, Darius Smallwood, Jonathan Pittman, Briana Burtley and Brittany Barraza. Honorary Chairman of the Corporate Board of Directors Mayor Rahm Emanuel said, “Nothing is more important than our investment in our children and striving to put every one of them on a path to success.” Martinez is currently the vice president of the Keystone Club and volunteers for multiple service events in her community. Martinez has even hosted service events at her club and brought together a group of her friends to raise money for Children’s Memorial Hospital. BGCC provides services through 16 locations for 10,000 children each year. Congrats, Nora!! (For more info, please visit www.bgcc.org.)

Playboy’s Hugh Hefner had a very special 86th birthday party recently, surrounded by admirers at his Holmby Hills mansion for the screening of his favorite film, “Casablanca.” They dressed in costume for the occasion, and after the screening, shared champagne and caviar by candlelight in the dining room that had been converted into Rick’s Café. Hef was presented with a special birthday cake which had his face superimposed on Humphrey Bogart’s body from the original film poster. Happy birthday Hef and I wish you many more happy occasions as “time goes by.”

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

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

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D36331%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12042802&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12042802.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

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

The countdown to the grand opening of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House has begun! Only 69 more days until the House at 211 E. Grand Ave. opens its doors on June 26th and I’m joining in to help! Each day on their website, www.RonaldHouseChicago.org, and on their Facebook and Twitter they’re featuring a new Countdown Photo of a “famous face or place” (their words, not mine) in Chicago and today, they have an adorable puppy! (I was proud to be #70 yesterday). They’re encouraging the city to join in on the fun, by downloading your own number card here, and posting your photos to their Facebook page – hundreds have already posted their pics! And if you have a cute pet pic, please post that! Don’t forget to tweet about it using the hashtag #86DayCountdown! For more info, please click here!

I am on sensory overload thinking about all of these great happenings in the greatest city in America! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing about it! Have a great week and I will see you here next time, I hope! (And don't forget to sign up for Watch312's VIP Club here and see the new video here! Lots of gift giveaways to come plus some of my favorite spots around town!)

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

2 Comments

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

Tagged as #86DayCountdown, 2012 Youth of the Year, Abe Thompson, AJ Johnson’s Salon, Amanda Wolfson, America’s Best Dance Crew, America’s Got Talent, Amy Creyer, Andy Shaw, Angela Bassett, Angela Thompson, Anna Kim, Annies Little Angels Small Breed Dog and Cat Rescue, Ari Johnson, Art for All Gala, Austin Maxfield, BAM, Beverly McClellan, Bill Powers, Billy Branch, Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago, Briana Burtley, Brittany Barraza, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Canine Massage Chicago, Casablanca, Chef Paul Kahan, Cheryl McKissack, Chicago Party Animals, Chicago Street Style, Chicagolicious, Cynthia Rowley, Dajanee Tate, Darius Smallwood, Dawoud Bey, Elements Contemporary Ballet, Ellen Sandor, Elysabeth Alfano, Emma Arnold, Eric McKissack, Erica Strama, Fabrice Calmels, Factor Runway, Fear No Art, FootworKINGz, Gary Cole, George, Ginger Zee, Harris Theater, Helena Rafeyan, Herbert Migdoll, Hoochie Coochie Man, Howard Godfrey, Hugh Hefner, Humphrey Bogart, Iman, James Jankowiak, Jeff Maldonado, Jennifer Hudson, Jenny Sepulveda, Jeremy O’Brian, Jerseylicious, Jim Mabie, Joe Leamanczyk, Joffrey Ballet, Joffrey Ballet Studios, Jon Siskel, Jonathan Pittman, Jose Gonzalez, Judith Venturino, Julia Morel, Julie Darling, Justin LeBlanc, Karolina Gnatowski, Kate Wash, Katrell Mendenhall, Kay Mabie, KC Winter, Kelly Zink, Kristina Sparks, Kyler Ashton Powell, Lamar Jordan, Leida “Lady Sol” Villegas, Linda Johnson Rice, Liza Brooks, Louder Than a Bomb, Lucy Onoh, MaCray Huff, Malcom Lundy, Marcus Riley, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Michael O’Briant, Michel Lopez, Michelle Askew, Mike Gosney, Miss Lucy Foozie, Nick Cave, Nick Pritzker, Nicole Beck, Niki Robinson, Nora Dunn, Nora Martinez, Odalys Garcia, Peach Carr, Perry Dog, Pet Care Plus, Playboy, Project Runway, Q Lacey, Red Dress Party, Rosemary Fanti, Ruth Horwich, Saturday Night Live, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Sepia, Shirley Massey, Stan Mansion, Stephanie Cole, Style Network, Susan Pritzker, Swarovski, Tarrah Cooper, The Dinner Party, The Voice, The Walk 2012, Theaster Gates, Tonald McDonald House, Trump Tower, Tyronne Stoudemire, Urban Gateways, Valerie Stoudemire, Valincia Saulsberry, Vincent Poole-Oliphant, Walter Massey, Watch312.com, Young Chicago Authors

February 3, 2012 · 12:46 pm

WATCH312.COM: CHICAGO’S FIRST ONLINE NETWORK LAUNCHES BIG!

…PLUS THE JOFFREY AUXILIARY BOARD'S “POINTE OF DEPARTURE,” AWARD-WINNING CHICAGO HOTSPOTS, A COOL NEW RESTAURANT, A RESCUE ORGANIZATION WITH A NEW FOCUS, SAKS’ CHARITABLE BENT AND MORE!

Despite the fact that there were several high profile parties on the same night, the James Hotel was packed with friends who came out to celebrate the launch of Chicago’s online network, Watch312.com! The event was streamed live as well as filmed for my show, "Candid Candace Chicago" (see video at end of segment) and the Red Carpet was continually packed with the crème de la crème of the city. And while I interviewed guests, other hosts worked the room talking up their shows. DC Crenshaw, host of “Chicago Unplugged,” interviewed fellow host and Prime House Executive Chef David Gresh for an upcoming segment for his show while Amanda Puck, host of “Dish It,” was fielding questions for her foodie-oriented show such as where do you go for a romantic Valentine’s dinner or what are the best brunch spots in town? Chef Rick Gresh’s show, “Chefs in the Kitchen,” will take you into the great kitchens of Chicago to meet some of our town’s greatest chefs. “4 X 4” host David Martin IV shows you four fun facts about your favorite places and events around Chicago. Master bakers Veronica and Mark Kwasigroch prepared the sweets for the evening and their show, “Dream Cakes,” teaches us the finer points of baking plus tips of the trade. Their cakes are now offered in over 15 Whole Foods stores as well as on their website, www.DreamCakesChicago.com. Watch312.com even covers the hot technology market in the Windy City with the talented hosts of "OverExposure TV." During the party, Tatiana Garrett (host of “Chicago Tails”) introduced some adorable dogs and cats that are available for adoption from the Anti-Cruelty Society. Her show will be a pet lover’s delight and will not only showcase darling pets waiting for their forever homes, but also the many ways Fido and Fluffy can make your lives healthier and happier. After cocktails, Red Carpet interviews and fabulous hors d’ouevres by Chef Gresh, the lights dimmed and the Watch312.com promo video aired. (See it here!) Then I had the privilege of introducing the brains behind the network, President Robert Mills. Bob began his career as a rock n’ roll DJ in Boston and quickly flew through the ranks into station management, eventually spanning major markets across the U.S. from LA to Chicago, NY and Boston. His track record for elevating ailing radio stations to number one market positions is legendary. Recognizing the need for well-trained broadcasters at all levels, he acquired the Ohio and Illinois Centers for Broadcasting as well as founding the Internet Streaming Corporation. He is a charming newlywed and a brilliant businessman with a quick wit. He also serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Chicago Loop Alliance and actively supports too many arts, civic and charitable organizations to mention. Watch 312.com’s Executive Producer Bill Natale is an Emmy award-winning producer/director and executive member of the Director’s Guild among many other media affiliations. Congrats to Director of Communications, Lindsay Hoey, who has worked tirelessly to bring Watch312.com to fruition, along with production director John Basile and his entire staff. Their hard work has paid off: The website is gorgeous and the programming is all on the right track. If you missed this exciting event, check it out here (on Watch312.com, of course!) and I hope you will keep your iPads, iPhones and eyeballs tuned into Watch312.com, which is available online 24/7! (Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available, too…just shoot me an email!) To see ALL of the party pics by Mila Samokhina and Helena Rafayen, please click here!

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D36877%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Another hot event on this same night was presented by the Junior Auxiliary Board of the Joffrey Ballet, “Pointe of Departure.” A signature of this event is finding hot new venues and this year was no exception. Venue Six10 at the Spertus Institute offered a great atmosphere for this evening where stage and canvas collided. More than 430 guests attended this event that included artwork from contemporary to classic, all donated to benefit The Joffrey Ballet, with one piece selling for $2,500! Co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella planned a night to remember that raised over $33,000. DJ Sadie Woods kept the crowd fueled for fun along with delicious food catered by Wolfgang Puck. Stay tuned for next year’s event – every year is bigger than the last for this creative Joffrey Junior Board! (Fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

And is our town a winning city or what?! Huge congrats to RL Restaurant! They were recently honored by BusinessWeek as having one of the "Most Powerful Tables in America." There were only four mentioned (the others were Michael’s in NY, Terrace at Sunset Tower in LA and Prime One Twelve in Miami) and RL also nabbed Forbes honors for being one of the "Top 10 Tables in the Country for a Power Lunch." (Others included the Polo Lounge in LA and The Palm in Washington, D.C.) Table 68, here I come!

And speaking of wins, another huge congrats goes out to the Peninsula Chicago and Catering Director Greg Hyder! The Special Events Gala and the 11th Annual Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence both took place this past weekend and the Peninsula Chicago was honored to be nominated for various awards at each event. Greg took home the award for Best Event Produced by a Hotel in 2011 for their 10 Year Anniversary Party which, if you weren’t there, WAS BEYOND BELIEF! (Check it out here!) The Pen’s wine director Michael Muser also won Best Sommelier at the Jean Banchet Awards at the Fairmont Hotel Friday night. WOWZA!

There is also a huge restaurateur collaboration in the works for a country/western bar/restaurant concept coming to 435 N. Clark St. in the summer of 2012. RJ and Jerrod Melman have teamed up with Joe’s Bar owners Ed Warm and Tom DiSanto for what is sure to be a new hotspot. Expect to hear the best in country music (possibly live) while grabbing a beer and enjoying southern-inspired dishes and authentic barbecue! OMG, I will be waiting at the door! Congrats to these powerhouses and thanks for bringing even more excitement to our beloved Windy City!

Saks Fifth Avenue is hosting a BIG month for charity in February! Titled “Support Your Choice of Charities @Saks,” this event will run from Feb. 1st thru the 29th and offer customers the opportunity to donate 5% of their Saks card purchases to the Service Club of Chicago, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Pathways Foundation, A Better Chicago and Children's Memorial Hospital.

Yappy days are here again! You know what a nut I am about animals: I am proud to be on the PAWS Development Board and I support any other animal oriented events so it is with great pleasure that I tell you about my latest find: YOUNG AT HEART PET RESCUE! Devoted board member Arlene Burkhardt contacted me recently about their upcoming event in June but what I learned about this rescue group is that they are the only rescue in Chicagoland that is exclusively dedicated to rescuing and rehoming SENIOR DOGS AND CATS (aka animals over the age of 5). Now we all know it’s not as hard to find forever homes for puppies and kittens but what about those dogs with a little grey around the muzzle but whose hearts were young and whose love knew no bounds or cats who lounged around pretending to be hard of hearing until the whir of the can opener proved otherwise? THESE are the pets Young at Heart concentrates on and I am thrilled! Even when their medical needs prove too daunting for their adoption program, they are never turned away…instead, they find their happily ever after in one of YAH’s Sanctuary Homes. (Please visit www.yahpetrescue.com to find out more and mark your calendars now for their Wags to Wishes Auction Dinner & Benefit on June 16th at The Meadows Club.)

And now for an update on the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House! The Grand Opening will be on Tuesday, June 26th celebrated with a fabulous ceremony at the House and a FUN party so stay tuned for details. But, in the meantime, they need LOTS of volunteers to help them move in and set up the House during the first few weeks of June. Unpack, set up the kitchen and linen closets, bedrooms and library – just like moving into a new home, only this one will be 14 STORIES HIGH! Anyone interested, please call Anne at their Lincoln Park House at 773.348.5322. RMHC needs YOU! 🙂

I was so thrilled to be back on "Windy City Live" this week – the Chat Desk with Ryan and Val is the coolest place to be! My segment was cut short due to the untimely and sad death of Don Cornelius but I hope this just means they'll have me back! Thanks for a great time and a huge congrats to executive producer Marlaine Selip on this incredible show!

http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=&section=wcl&mediaId=8527113&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://windycitylive.com&configPath=/shared/util/&site=

Well, this is some of the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights! I hope you’re enjoying our unseasonable season and please check in next week when I will be bringing you Lyric Opera and exclusive Gene & Georgetti’s 70th Anniversary Party coverage plus a whole lot more!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to Facebook winner Hope Bertram on her event suggestions! I hope you had a great time at the Launch Party!!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as 24/7, 4 X 4, Adrienne Samuels, Amanda Puck, Andrew Caravella, Anti-Cruelty Society, Arlene Burkhardt, Ashley Lobo, Best Hotel Event Produced by a Hotel Banquet Department, Bill Natale, BusinessWeek, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candid Candace Chicago, Carmen Rivera, Catie Keogh, Chef David Gresh, Chefs in the Kitchen, Chicago Loop Alliance, Chicago magazine, Chicago Tails, Chicago Unplugged, David Martin IV, DC Crenshaw, Deborah Arneson, Diane Crary, Director’s Guild, Dish It, DJ Sadie Woods, Dream Cakes, DreamCakesChicago.com, Ebony Magazine, Ed Warm, Emmy awards, Forbes, Gene & Georgetti, Greg Hyder, HappyAlmostFriday.com, Helena Rafayen, Hope Bertram, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, Ina Dorsey, Internet Streaming Corporation, James Hotel, JBar, Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence, Jerrod Melman, Joe’s Bar, Joffrey Ballet, Junior Auxiliary Board, Kohn Basile, LA, Lindsay Hoey, Lyric Opera, Mark Kwasigroch, Maven, Media Mavens, Miami, Michael Muser, Michael’s, Mila Samokhina, Most Powerful Tables in America, NYC, Ohio Center for Broadcasting, OverExposure TV, PAWS, Peninsula Chicago, Pointe of Departure, Polo Lounge, Prime House, Prime One Twelve, Rebecca Michuda, RJ Melman, RL restaurant, Robert Mills, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sarah Vargo, Service Club of Chicago, Support Your Choice of Charities @Saks, Table 68, Tatiana Garrett, TCW, Terrace at Sunset Tower, Terri Lee Ryan, The Meadows Club, The Palm, Tom DiSanto, Top 10 Tables in the Country for a Power Lunch, Venue Six10, Veronica Kwasigroch, Washington D.C., Watch312.com, Weekends with Whitney, Whitney Reynolds, Whole Foods, Wolfgang Puck, Young at Heart Pet Rescue

January 17, 2012 · 10:35 pm

CHICAGO FILM CRITICS AWARDS: A STARRY, STARRY NIGHT

…PLUS IAN SCHRAGER’S PARTY AT PUBLIC CHICAGO, FREDERIC FEKKAI IS FETED AT NOMI, JOFFREY BRIDGE PROGRAM, SEND GOCA TO NYFW, WINTER IN CHICAGO AND MORE!

What a full week in Chicago! And here I was worried I wouldn’t have anything to write about at this time of the year! The Chicago Film Critics and Comedy Awards Show can be described in one word: surreal. I have never seen so many stars in one place in such an intimate setting. I was told to come to the Ritz’ 11th floor for a press conference, that I thought was supposed to begin at 4 p.m., but sadly had started at 3 p.m. and was over by the time I arrived. So, I waited in a little anteroom with a few other people who included ABC 7’s Janet Davies, PR whiz Dionne Williams, photogs Mila Samokhina and Shauna Bittle along with a few others. I was sure I had missed my opportunity when event creator/founder Sharee Pemberton swept into the room along with Event Creative’s Lisa Newman. I had previously been invited for dinner but figured this would be a massive affair and I would never even get close to the stars to get photos but boy was I mistaken! Sharee opened doors to reveal an intimate dining room set up with a beautiful buffet for around 25 to 30 people! I couldn’t believe it when I saw George Lucas and Mellody Hobson come in with the cast from “Red Tails” including handsome Terrence Howard, Nate Parker, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and director Anthony Hemingway. As if this wasn’t enough, James Earl Jones arrived with his protective wife, Cece. It was, as I said, surreal! I sat with N’Digo’s witty Hermene Hartman, DuSable Museum Prez Carol Adams and Dionne Williams among others at a table right next to Lucas who was seated next to Mr. Jones. Others seen at the dinner included Abe Thompson and his beautiful wife Angela, Tyronne Stoudemire, Urban Prep’s Tim King, Roe Conn with glam wife Barb, Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley (just back from Mexico together), “The Muppets” writer and star Jason Segel and Tara Jenkins among a few others. Before the dinner began, Pastor Charles Jenkins gave a blessing. Every time James Earl Jones spoke, the room quieted to a whisper just to hear his legendary voice. What a thrill! After the dinner, we all filed downstairs to the Broadway Playhouse in Water Tower Place. Before the awards show began, there was a video presentation featuring movies filmed in Chicago that included clips from the “Blues Brothers,” “Home Alone,” “About Last Night” and others. Then emcees Roe Conn and Richard Roeper came to the podium, Richard with a glass of red wine. After he toasted the crowd, he explained that the proceeds from the sale of these embossed wine glasses would benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. As they mentioned the honorees, Roeper commented on Chicago’s own Dennis Farina by jokingly saying, “Farina hasn’t been a cop in 25 years and still had the fourth highest arrest record.” Shirley MacLaine accepted her Commitment to the Craft Award via a video. Roe Conn said, “Shirley couldn’t be here but she did send an astral projection.” Then the cast of “Red Tails” was introduced to wild applause followed by announcements of winners for Best Original Score (“Drive”), Best Cinematography (“Tree of Life”), Most Promising Performer (Elizabeth Olsen for “Marcy Martha May Marlene”); Most Promising Filmmaker (Sean Durkin for “Marcy Martha May Marlene”), Best Foreign Film (“A Separation” from Iran), Best Documentary (Steve James for “The Interrupters”) and Best Animated Feature (“The Adventures of Tintin”). After these awards were announced, RMHC’s Doug Porter told the crowd of 400 that the new Ronald McDonald House, which will be the world’s largest, will open in June and provide 95 rooms for families every night. The next award for Best Original Screenplay went to the “The Artist” – FANTASTIC and a must-see! – followed by Best Adapted Screenplay (“Moneyball”), Best Supporting Act
ress (Jessica Chastain for “Tree of Life”) and Best Supporting Actor (Albert Brooks for “Drive”). Brooks accepted his award via video as well and said, “I am sorry I can’t be there tonight. Someone forgot to pick me up from my hotel.” Jason Segel was honored by the Comedia in Excellence Award. (He was so cute and kept flirting with the model/actress who presented the exquisite awards created by Crystal Cave.) Final awards went to Michael Shannon, a Red Orchid Theatre ensemble member (“Take Shelter”) for Best Actor; Michelle Williams (“My Week with Marilyn”) for Best Actress; Terrence Malick (“Tree of Life”) for Best Director and Best Picture (“Tree of Life”). The first Oscar Micheaux Award was presented to James Earl Jones, who commented that his father starred in Micheaux’ 1939 melodrama, “Lying Lips.” The first Comedy Awards came next with honors going to Antonio Banderas, Anne Hathaway, George Clooney, Melissa McCarthy, “The Adventures of Tintin” and Alexander Payne. The Second City theater group was recognized with the Big Shoulders Award. The Nichols Sisters, Jennifer Hudson’s cousins, brought the house down to close the show by singing “Happy Birthday” to event planner extraordinaire, Lisa Newman. The after-party continued back at the Ritz where Dennis Farina and his longtime girlfriend Marianne Cahill were seen greeting the guests. Huge kudos to CFCA President Dann Gire and Executive Producer (and Comedy Awards founder) Sharee Pemberton on a memorable night in the Windy City! I can’t wait to see what next year brings!

The parties never stop in Paris by the Prairie: On Tuesday, January 10th, TWO fabulous parties happened within hours of one another! The first event, hosted by hotelier Ian Schrager, was held at his PUBLIC Chicago and celebrated the launch of award-winning Chef
Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s latest cookbook, “Home Cooking with Jean-Georges: My Favorite Simple Recipes.” The place was packed with 150 fans and friends all anxious to chat with Chef Jean-Georges and get their books signed. A Q & A followed with Ian, Chef Jean Georges and Pump Room Executive Chef Bradford Phillips. When asked that the difference was between cooking for people in NYC versus Chicago, Jean-Georges replied, “The people are nicer here.” Well, he instantly created 150 new friends for life! Seen on the scene were Victor Skrebneski, Michael Kutza, Karen and Marvin Herman, Dennis Minkel, Sherren Leigh, Dan Uslan, Rebecca Besser, handsome hairstylist Frederic Fekkai (who had appeared on “Windy City Live” that morning with Chef Jean-Georges), WCL’s Valerie Warner, Ryan Chiaverini and social media expert Ji Suk Yi, WCL producer Marlaine Selip, Cheeky Chicks Erica Bethe Levin and Joran Thompson, PR whiz Jill Katz (who planned the party), Playboy’s Jimmy Jellinek (Jill’s little brother), Alpana Singh (“Check, Please!”), legendary Chef Jean Joho, Elena Samokhina and Gilt City’s Nicole Banks, among others. To view ALL of the party pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

After the PUBLIC party, it was onto the Park Hyatt’s NoMI restaurant, where hostess with the mostest/awesome author Amy Tara Koch had planned an intimate dinner party for 13 of her friends for hairstylist-to-the-stars, Frederic Fekkai – although as guest Lynn McMahan learned, he was so much more than this, being a helicopter skier, organic gardener, lover of holistic retreats and father of three. Amy kept the guests on their toes by expertly rotating everyone around the table to make sure we all got a chance to chat with Frederic. Lucky guests included Toni Canada, Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser, Rusty and Naomi Reese, Dusty Stemer, Chuck Garfien, Naomi Beckwith and Gale Gottlieb, among others. Watch for Amy’s latest book, “Five Minute Fixes: Easy Style Solutions for Busy Women,” coming soon. Can’t wait to buy it and use it! (To view ALL pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

We all know about The Joffrey Ballet but not enough people are aware of their wonderful Bridge Program that was launched in the fall of 2010. Dance master Pierre Lockett heads up this initiative that provides access for children in Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods to dance instruction, increasing diversity in the Joffrey Academy’s students. Thirty students from each of the 11 schools will receive onsite dance instruction twice a week, with 40 to 50 talented students being tapped to attend Saturday classes at the Joffrey Academy. For more info on the Joffrey’s community outreach programs, please click here.

We have such an amazing community of young designers here in Chicago and recently, the design team from GOCA (Gordana Rasic and Omar Villabos) were invited to show at the Emerge! Show during New York Fashion Week. And as is often the case with new designers, their budgets aren’t as bright as their futures, so please join me in a “GOCA Fundraiser: Making Dreams Come True” party on Friday, January 27th at NV Penthouse Lounge, located at 116 W. Hubbard from 6 – 9 p.m. Host committee members include Sandra Smith-Doghmi, Michelle Gomez, Shari Duffy, Benjamin Cottrell and Amir Attaie. GOOOO GOCA!

If you’re looking for a magical night for kids of all ages, then please check out the world premiere of “The Houdini Box” coming to the Mercury Theatre at 3745 N. Southport Ave. on January 24th (through March 4th). This Chicago Children’s Theatre production is based on Brian Selznick’s first book of the same name. The Tribune’s Chris Jones called it one of the “top 10 shows to watch for in 2012.” Selznick is also the author of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” the basis for Martin Scorcese’s current smash hit, Golden Globe winner for Best Director, “Hugo. For more info, please click here!

We all knew it was coming…it was just a matter of time. And now that it’s here, I feel like winter has really arrived. There is nothing quite as beautiful as that first snowfall. Sigh…but now I am done with it and ready for spring!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Look at my new iPhone cover by Caitlin Saville Collins! Not only do you get a great case but you also get a photo session with this wonderful photog. LOVE this wonderful gift idea, Caitlin! For more info, please contact Caitlin at c.savillephotography@gmail.com or click here for her website.

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as A Separation, Abe Thompson, About Last Night, Albert Brooks, Alexander Payne, Alpana Singh Check, Amir Attaie, Amy Tara Koch, Angela Thompson, Anne Hathaway, Anthony Hemingway, Antonio Banderas, Barb conn, Benjamin Cottrell, Brian Selznick, Bridge Program, Broadway Playhouse, Caitlin Saville Collins, Carol Adams, CheekyChicago.com, Chef Jean Joho, Chef Jean-Georges, Chicago Children’s Theatre, Chicago Film Critics and Comedy Awards Show, Chicago Tribune, Chris Jones, Chuck Garfien, Comedia in Excellence Award, Commitment to the Craft Award, Crystal Cave, Cuba Gooding Jr., Dan Uslan, Dann Gire, Dennis Farina, Dennis Minkel, Dionne Williams, Doug Porter, Drive, Du Sable Museum, Dusty Stemer, Elena Samokhina, Elizabeth Olsen, Emerge! Show, Erica Bethe Levin, Executive Chef Bradford Phillips, Five Minute Fixes: Easy Style Solutions for Busy Women, Frederic Fekkai Windy City Live, Gale Gottlieb, George Clooney, George Lucas, Gilt City, GOCA, Golden Globe Awards, Gordana Rasic, Hermene Hartman, Home Alone, Home Cooking with Jean-Georges: My Favorite Simple Recipes, Houdini Box, Ian Schrager, iPhone, Iran, James Earl Jones, Janet Davies, Jason Segel, Jennifer Hudson, Jessica Chastain, Ji Suk Yi, Jill Katz, Jimmy Jellinek, Joffrey Academy, Joffrey Ballet, Joran Thompson, Karen Herman, Lisa Newman, Lying Lips, Lynn McMahan, Marcy Martha May Marlene, Marianne Cahill, Marlaine Selip, Martin Scorcese, Marvin Herman, Melissa McCarthy, Mellody Hobson, Mercury Theatre, Michael Kutza, Michael Shannon, Michelle Gomez, Michelle Williams, Mila Samokhina, Moneyball, My Week with Marilyn, Naomi Beckwith, Naomi Reese, Nate Parker, N’Digo, New York Fashion Week, Nicole Banks, NoMI, Omar Villabos, Oscar Micheaux Award, Paris by the Prairie, Park Hyatt, Pastor Charles Jenkins, Pierre Lockett, Playboy, Please!, PUBLIC Chicago, Pump Room, Rebecca Besser, Red Orchard Theatre, Red Tails, Richard Roeper, Roe Conn, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Rusty Reese, Ryan Chiaverini, Sandra Smith-Doghmi, Sarah Cooley, Sean Durkin, Sharee Pemberton, Shari Duffy, Shauna Bittle, Sherren Leigh, Shirley MacLaine, Steve James, Take Shelter, Tara Jenkins, Terrence Howard, Terrence Malick, The Adventures of Tintin, The Artist, The Interrupters, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, The Muppets, The Nichols Sisters, The Second City, Tim King, Toni Canada, Tree of Life, Tyronne Stoudemire, Urban Prep, Valerie Warner, Victor Skrebneski, Water Tower Place. Blues Brothers

January 10, 2012 · 11:05 pm

WHAT THE VICS (VERY IMPORTANT CHICAGOANS) DID FOR NYE!

…PLUS HARRIS THEATER’S PARIS OPERA BALLET/GRAFF LAUNCH PARTY, JOFFREY’S POINTE OF DEPARTURE, TOP CHEEKY CHICKS 2012, GIBSON’S CHARITABLE NYE CONTRIBUTION, “THE DINNER PARTY” AND MUCH MORE!

My, my, my…it’s 2012 already and I feel like I barely scratched the surface of 2011! We were so lucky to spend our New Year’s Eve this year with old and new friends in Florida. Newlyweds ICB’s Bob Mills and Kim Venezia Mills combined their wedding celebration with a New Year’s Eve party and the results were outstanding! An evening boat ride through the waterways of the Intracoastal eating, drinking and dancing while viewing the most magnificent display of holiday lights I’ve seen outside of the Griswold home! Every mansion was draining electricity like an alcoholic downs whiskey. And yes, we were enjoying adult beverages as well along with every other food group you can think of. Kim missed her calling as a social director but I’m sure glad she was ours! Kim, along with Bob and their respective families, made a group of around 60 guests feel so very welcome in every way. Every day, there was a BBQ, dinner or a pool get-together and I loved meeting their wonderful friends who had flown in from all across the country to celebrate with the new lovebirds. Congrats, Mr. and Mrs. Mills and watch for their upcoming launch of Chicago’s Online Network, Watch312.com, now with eight shows in production! (To view many more fun Florida pics, please click here!)

I’m always so interested in everyone’s New Year’s Eve plans so I quizzed some VICs (Very Important Chicagoans) to see just what they were up to on the eve of 2012:

I have always loved Nate Berkus…he was the first person to host The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails at the Illuminating Company on February 8, 2007, at the request of my co-founder and friend, Helen Melchior, and he will always be a VIC in my heart. His exciting NYE was spent at Playacar Palace in Cancun celebrating event planner extraordinaire Colin Cowie’s 50th birthday. Other VIP guests included Padma Lakshmi, Niche Media’s Jason and Haley Binn, Clear Channel’s Bob Pittman, Chef Todd English and NBC’s Ted Harbert. Natalie Cole even sang “Unforgettable.” Niceeeee…

And even though this event happened LAST NYE, I certainly thought it was worthy of inclusion: I mean how many people have intimate dinners with HRH Prince Charles in his own home!!?!?! I’ll tell you who, the dynamic Natasha Isaacs and her handsome husband, Michael. Natasha was allowed to invite whomever she wanted and, of course, she invited her dearest friends (who are equally gorgeous) Eva and Cezar Jakubowski along with Bozena and Arie Zwieg. The occasion was to thank them for their fundraising efforts for the Shakespeare Theater that’s being built in Gdansk, a project they’re both passionate about. And who could ever say no to Natasha anyway? 🙂

Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan and her handsome husband Tom had quite a night, too. They dined at Charlie Trotter’s and during the course of the evening, Charlie dropped the bombshell announcement that he is leaving the industry to pursue philosophy! Susanna said it made the evening even more special knowing this would be the last NYE celebration at Charlie’s historic restaurant.

Gibson’s Restaurant’s Kathy O’Malley Piccone and John Colletti, along with 75 volunteers (mostly staff) served more than 300 people for Catholic Charities at the restaurant New Year’s Day…after they had served almost 1,000 customers for dinner the night before! Special guests arrived at noon and enjoyed steaks, shrimp cocktails, garbage salads and chicken with all of the trimmings. They were also given goody bags that included warm hats, gloves, scarves and tooth paste and toothbrushes. I LOVE THIS PLACE and their staff – especially Kathy – all of whom are just too wonderful for words!

Beautiful Gayle Anthony’s equally gorgeous sister, Julie Weindling and her beau Phil Geier, spent NYE at Round Hill Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where they hobnobbed with Sir Paul McCartney and his new wife Nancy, daughter Stella and their kids including Beatrice, his daughter from Heather Mills. Also seen at this posh resort were Ewan McGregor, Ralph and Ricky Lauren and Lauren Bush. WHEW! What a hotspot!

Celebrity scribe and TV personality Bill Zwecker and his partner, real estate broker extraordinaire Tom Gorman spent an exciting NYE at Linda Johnson Rice’s spectacular mountaintop home in Palm Springs. Seen on the scene were Desiree Rogers, Neal Zucker, Julie Latsko, James Bell (Boeing CFO) and wife Mary, Sue Leonis and others. Awwww…what a life!

Darling freelance writer and Chicago magazine nightlife reporter Amalie Drury always has fun wherever she goes and this night was no exception! Her friends Megan and Alex Menocal hosted a dinner party at their Albany Park apartment where they all enjoyed a “beautiful” grilled rib roast, smoked salmon and butternut squash Wellington. They drank countless bottles of champagne, played board games and danced in the living room and, at midnight, Alex played “Auld Lang Syne” on his guitar while they all sang along. Sounds like a perfect night with friends! Love you, AD!

Man-about-town-but-with-a-serious-job Paul Iacono spent NYE with a “triple header” beginning with a dinner at Piccolo Sogno with Elizabeth Brodsky and her family and friends at 7 p.m. sharp. At 10 p.m., he was off to ring in the New Year with bottle service at the Pump Room at Public Chicago, where he and his buddy Brian Thompson occupied Booth One, of course, which was reserved for eight and included Brian’s girlfriend Kristin Atchison, Cindy Burns and Spiro Megremis, Kevin Wright, Emily Greenaway and Rhea Lyn. Restaurant Director Jay Schuster was “spot on” and the evening included a midnight champagne toast..but Paul’s night wasn’t over yet! He concluded his NYE at the home of Shabbir Helaly with glam girls Monika Dixon, Saira Cooper and their cute hubbies…life is good in the World of Iacono! Maybe this could be a ride at Universal?

CheekyChicago.com founders Erica Bethe Levin and Jessica Zweig know how to party, too, of course! Erica (along with handsome Terry) dined at NAHA for their annual tradition, enjoying Chef Carrie Nahabedian’s magical dinners that included lobster risotto this year. Jessica hosted a party with 15 of her best friends at her home. Her “date” for the night was Lisa Frame, founder of MugShotMonday.com. After, a stretch limo (courtesy of Uber) took them to Whistler, a mixology-focused hipster bar in Logan Square, where they danced their cheeky cheeks off!

Biz Bash’s Jenny Berg and her BF Dustin Berta spent NYE at Playboy’s party at the Hilton Chicago where they rang in midnight with a confetti
explosion, a kiss and a Bunny at the turntable. NBC’s handsome Marcus Riley also attended the Playboy party but not before making dinner for his glam model girlfriend, Nicole Townsend, accompanied by a couple of bottles of champagne. After, they attended friend Justin Jacobson’s Hard Rock Chicago event before the final stop at the Hilton to party with the Bunnies.

Reality star and Edrop-Off’s Corri McFadden rang in the New Year with her love Spiro Tsaparas and friends for a simple, low-key dinner at Le Colonial. Although NOTHING is low-key in Corri’s world including her Louboutins that she’s rockin’ in this pic!

Auctioneer extraordinaire Leslie Hindman spent the New Year in style in Paris with long-time friends Mary Lou Gorno and Ann Tomlinson with her charming college-aged kids at Le Grand Colbert. (BTW, Leslie is opening more auction houses around the country so more good things to come for Leslie Hindman Auctioneers!)

CS Magazine’s Samantha Saifer Berngard, along with her hubby and friends, dined at Tony Mantuano’s new restaurant Bar Toma. Afterwards, they headed over to the Hard Rock Hotel where they listened to their wedding band, The Gold Coast All Stars, perform with a few special guests including Hey Champ, American Idol’s Lee DeWyze and O.A.R.’s Chris Culos. CS sponsored the event and they all danced the night away!

Foodarazzi blogger/XA’s Amanda Puck kicked off the night with BF Jerome Weitzel and friends at Big Star for some tacos and bourbon. Then they returned home for their second annual French Onion Soup Fete where they prepared a soup recipe from the October issue of Bon Appetit. (Watch for Amanda’s new internet show, “Dish It,” coming soon on Watch312.com!)

Fabulous in every way designer Pamella Roland (DeVos) has just become a VIC having recently bought a beautiful new home here! For NYE she and her glam family, along with their friends, sailed the seas near Cabo on her luxury yacht.

(For space reasons, I wasn’t able to include all of the exciting NYE happenings so to see what ALL of the VIC’s did for NYE, please check out my jam-packed Chicago Now column here!)

More than 100 of Chicago’s arts and civic leaders joined presenting sponsors/co-chairs Caryn and King Harris and Alexandra and John Nichols along with Gala Presenting Sponsor, GRAFF, in celebrating the announcement of the Chicago debut engagement by the Paris Opera Ballet coming in June. This event has been described as “one of the most significant projects for Chicago’s arts community in decades.” The launch party was held at Graff on Oak Street and included VIP guests Anne and J. Christopher Reyes, Suzette Bulley, Consul General of France Graham Paul, Margaret Unetich, Paul and Kelly Kaiser, David and Luann Blowers, Sandy and Jack Guthman, Lori Gray Faversham, Ken Norgan, Maya Polsky and Nicolas Bridon, Maria Zec, Dori Wilson and Elton Dixon among others. The Gala, on June 26th, will debut the Paris Opera Ballet’s “Giselle” and mark the company’s first return to America in more than a decade. Mayor Rahm Emanuel will be Honorary Chair. For tickets and more info please visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl.)

I mentioned the CheekyChicago.com founders’ NYE plans a bit earlier and now I am thrilled to announce the Top 10 Cheeky Chicks of 2012! They include *drumroll please* Kiran Advani (Programming Director, Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture), Bridget Albert (Mixologist, Southern Wine & Spirits), Maryilene Blondell (Development Director, The ALS Assn.), Leah Chavie (Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique), Jackie Chen (Exec. Chef Chicago Cut Steakhouse), Allison Cooke (Marketing Mngr. CS Mag), Charity Gonzalez (Founder UrbanFitClubs.com), Melissa Muoio (personal stylist) and Ashley Zisook (owner Sofia Boutique). What a great list of CHEEKY CHICKS – congrats to ALL!

The Auxiliary Board of The Joffrey Ballet presents their second annual Pointe of Departure event on Thursday, January 26th from 6 – 9 p.m., at a NEW venue this year, Venue Six/10 at the Spertus Institute, located at 610 S. Michigan Ave. Joffrey dancers including Temur Suluashvili and Matthew Adamczyk will again be contributing amazing artwork as well as man
y other artists. Fab fotog/artist/jeweler Mila Samokhina will also be donating an exquisite piece entitled “Illusion.” The after-party will be at TZAR (215 W. Ontario), another new venue for this unique and much-loved event. Besides the original artwork, the evening will also include DJ Sadie Woods, cocktails and Wolfgang Puck’s tasty hors d’oeuvres plus a silent auction! Tickets can be purchased here or by calling 312.386.8979. Congrats in advance to co-chairs Diane Crary and Andrew Caravella and their dynamic committee! See you all soon!

Congrats to Fear No Art’s Elysabeth Alfano, one of the hardest working women in show business, on the birth of her latest production, “The Dinner Party.” This live artist talk show takes place at the Mayne Stage Theatre and will launch on January 30th. “The Dinner Party” happens onstage over wine and appetizers created by celebrity chefs in front of a live audience and will stream live on the internet at www.FearNoART.tv. MOTO Chef Homaro Cantu will be featured in the first production along with guest artists Tony Fitzpatrick, Jon Langford and Rachel Rockwell. Get your tix here!

So 2012 is off to a roaring start! I hope all of your wishes come true this year and that you keep enjoying Candid Candace!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Thanks to CS Magazine for including this blog in their "Best of the City 2012" book (the "Follow the Leaders" article). I am honored and thrilled!

Leave a comment

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

Tagged as Alex Menoval, Alexandra Nichols, Allison Cooke, ALS Association, Amalie Drury, Amanda Puck, American Idol, Andrew Caravella, Ann Tomlinson, Anne Reyes, Arie Zweig, Ashley Zisook, Auld Lang Syne, Auxiliary Board of The Joffrey Ballet, Bar Toma, Beatrice McCartney, Best of the City 2012, Big Star, Bill Zwecker, Biz Bash, Bob Mills, Bob Pittman, Boeing, Boenza Zweig, Bon Appetit, Booth One, Brian Thompson, Bridget Albert, Cabo, Cancun, Caryn Haris, Catholic Charities, Cezar Jakubowski, Charity Gonzalez, Charlie Trotter, CheekyChicago.com, Chef Carrie Nahabedian, Chef Homaro Canty, Chef Todd English, Chicago, Chicago Cut Steakhouse, Chicago magazine, Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture, Chicago’s Online Network, Chris Culos, Cindy Burns, Clean Channel, Consul General of France Graham Paul, Corri McFadden, Couture & Cocktails, CS Magazine, David Blowers, Desiree Rogers, Diane Crary, Dish It, DJ Sadie Woods, Dori Wilson, Dustin Berta, eDrop-Off, Elizabeth Brodsky, Elton Dixon, Elysabeth Alfano, Emily Greenaway, Erica Bethe Levin, Eva Jakubowski, Ewan McGregor, Fear No Art, FearNoArt.tv, FloRida, Follow the Leaders, Foodarazzi, French Onion Soup Fete, Gayle Anthony, Gibson's Restaurant, Graff, Graff on Oak Street, Haley Binn, Hard Rock Chicago, Heather Mills, Helen Melchior, Hey Champ, Hilton Chicago, HRH Prince Charles, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, Illuminating Company, Intracoastal, J. Christopher Reyes, Jack Guthman, Jackie Chen, Jamaica, James Bell, Jason Binn, Jay Schuster, Jenny Berg, Jerome Weitzel, Jessica Zweig, Joffrey Ballet, John Colletti, John Nichols, Jon Langford, Julie Latsko, Julie Weindling, Justin Jacobson, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Kelly Kaiser, Ken Norgan, Kevin Wright, Kim Venezia Mills, King Harris, Kiran Advani, Kristin Atchinson, Lauren Bush, Le Colonial, Le Grand Colbert, Leah Chavie, Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique, Lee DeWyze, Leslie Hindman, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Linda Johnson Rice, Lisa Frame, Lori Gray Faversham, Louboutins, Luann Blowers, Marcus Riley, Margaret Unetich, Maria Zec, Mary Lou Gorno, Maryilene Blondell, Matthew Adamczyk, Maya Polsky Bridon, Mayne Stage Theatre, Megan Menocal, Melissa Muoio, Michael Isaacs, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Monika Dixon, Montego Bay, MOTO, MugShotMonday.com, Nancy Shevell, Natalie Cole, Natasha Isaacs, Nate Berkus, NBC, Neal Zucker, New Year's Eve, Niche Media, Nicolas Bridon, Nicole Townsend, O.A.R., Padma Lakshmi, Palm Springs, Pamella Roland DeVos, Paris Opera Ballet, Paul Iacono, Paul Kaiser, Phil Geier, Piccolo Sogno, Playacar Palace, Playboy, Pointe of Departure, PUBLIC Chicago, Pump Room, Rachel Rockwell, Rahm Emanuel, Ralph Lauren, Rhea Lyn, Ricky Lauren, Round Hill Resort, Saira Cooper, Samantha Saifer Berngard, Sandy Guthman, Shabbir Helaly, Sir Paul McCartney, Sofia Boutique, Southern Wine & Spirits, Spertus Institute, Spiro Megremis, Spiro Tsaparas, Stella McCartney, Sue Leonis, Susanna Negovan, Suzette Bulley, Ted Barbert, Temur Suluashvili, Terry Levin, The Dinner Party, The Gold Coast All Stars, Tom Gorman, Tom Negovan, Tony Fitzpatrick, Tony Mantuano, TZAR, Uber, Unforgettable, UrbanFitClubs.com, Venue Six/10, Watch312.com, Whistler, Wolfgang Puck, XA

December 20, 2011 · 5:03 pm

KANDY KANE BALL COLLECTS TONS OF TOYS FOR GIRLS AND BOYS!

…PLUS THE JOFFREY BALLET’S NUTCRACKER, ANOTHER ART INSTITUTE COUP, GOLDEN GLOBE NEWS, CHEF CHARLIE TROTTER’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY, THE APARECIO FOUNDATION EVENT AND MORE!

The Kandy Kane Ball is the largest party with a kid-friendly purpose in town hosting more than 1,000 guests at Joe’s Bar recently and including one of the city’s biggest toy drives! I had never been to this event before and it’s not surprising, since it sells out almost before it is even publicized! My handsome friends and hosts Mark Bell, Chris Draska and Matt Unertl invited me this year and I was thrilled! This event consisted of young professionals with a charitable bent and everywhere you looked there were beautiful people. Joe’s 12,000-square-foot space was transformed into a winter wonderland by Derrick Taylor of Taylor & Co. There was a spinning Victorian kissing ball and fresh mistletoe straight from Texas. An eight-foot flocked Wisconsin Frasier fir hung upside down over the red room changing colors as it rotated. The “Northern Lights” theme dictated the frosty décor with ice sculptures while LED lights throughout the five party rooms changed color every five minutes. Five projectors scattered throughout the venue made the walls look as if they were, in fact, snowing and on 120 plasma TVs, classic Christmas movies were being played. It was a sight to behold! There were opportunities to chat with Santa and have your photo taken as well as passed hors d’oeuvres including steak sandwich sliders, pulled pork tostadas, parmesan stuffed artichoke hearts and buffalo chicken Rangoon among other tasty treats. The upstairs VIP Lounge was by-wristband-only and included comfy lounge seating, a full bar and festive holiday décor and allowed you to view the crowd from an aerie perch. Cocktail attire was required as well as a toy donation. During the course of the evening, more than 5,000 toys filled a 53-foot semi trailer truck for delivery to Holy Family Church on December 17th. The toy distribution was overseen by Father Jeremiah Boland. Holy Family Church has been involved with the Kandy Kane Ball since the inception of the event in 2002 which began in a basement with a group of close friends who had gathered to throw a surprise party for a friend diagnosed with cancer. Courtney Dempsey’s only wish was to provide enough toys on Christmas to the children of Chicago who were less fortunate than her. Her wish was fulfilled that night and the Kandy Kane Ball, now in its ninth year, continues to raise money and provide toys to thousands of Chicagoland children while providing an enjoyable and fun-filled night for those who were lucky enough to attend. The night included an open bar, a champagne toast by the hosts and songs of the season by The Arlingtones. World class DJ entertainment by one of my favorites, DJ Sye Young (along with DJ Jem), kept the crowd fueled for fun along with Drummer Miro and DJ Ryan Pullano. In addition to the toys donated, the host committee (along with Target) donate hundreds of mountain bikes for kids of all ages. Congrats to the committee members (aka elves) of the Kandy Kane Ball – Matt Joki, Paul Manning, David Sacher, Steve Angelo, Jason Vargovchik, Larry Loethen, Jared Schlicht, Ed Warm, Gabby Lobascio, Mark Bell, Matt Unertl, Chris Draska, Christian Habitz and Donnie Kruse. What a wonderful party for a heartwarming cause! To view ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here…and to see the latest “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!

watch312 on livestream.com. Broadcast Live Free

The Joffrey Ballet’s “Nutcracker” came to life at the Palmer House Hilton for its annual Nutcracker Family Dinner. Held in multiple ballrooms and attracting more than 450 guests, this lively, holiday favorite was chaired by WB members Sonya Jackson and Cindy Burns. Children delighted in creating snow-flakes, taking photos with Nutcrackers, decorating ballet shoes, making their own cupcakes and having their faces painted. A sit-down family style dinner included traditional favorites: turkey, roasted chicken, stuffing and cranberries. Before and after dinner, trolleys shuttled guests between the hotel and the Auditorium Theatre for matinee and evening performances of this classic ballet deemed “America’s #1 Nutcracker.” Rich Daniels and the City Lights Orchestra provided entertainment along with carolers while Hubert the Lion, from sponsor Harris Bank, posed for photos. Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway, along with the co-chairs, welcomed the crowd. The Nutcracker is one of The Joffrey Ballet’s largest touring shows, traveling with 80 people and requiring five 48-foot long semi trailer trucks. This company has been hailed as “America’s Company of Firsts.” The list includes being the first dance company to perform at the White House (at Jacqueline Kennedy’s invitation), first to appear on TV, first American company to visit Russia, first classical dance company to go multi-media, first to commission a rock n’ roll ballet, the first and only dance company to appear on the cover of Time magazine and the first to have a major motion picture based on it, Robert Altman’s “The Company.” Premiering in 1987, “The Nutcracker” now features 42 company dancers and 70 children set against a magical, 19th century Christmas backdrop and runs through December 27th. (To view ALL event pics by Caitlin Collins Saville, please click here!)

The Evening Associates of the Art Institute hosted a party to celebrate the projection of Andy Warhol’s film “Empire” onto the Aon Center recently. This monumental outdoor screening onto 12 upper stories (150 feet tall) was the first outdoor projection of the film in the United States. The film began at 6 p.m. and ran in its entirety until 2:05 a.m. More than 125 guests showed up in the Nichols Trustees Suite at the Modern Wing and enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a DJ. Did YOU see the projection?

Moet & Chandon will return as the official champagne for the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards in L.A. Sofia Vergara, Gerard Butler and Rashida Jones were on hand to present the nominations and celebrate a nomination for Sofia herself in the “Best Supporting Actress – TV movie or Miniseries” category. More than 1,000 Imperial minis and 500 Grand Vintage 2002 magnums will be served on both the Red Carpet and inside the ballroom totaling more than 9,000 glasses being served during one of Hollywood’s biggest nights! Prepare for some exciting stage moments! (The Globes will air on Sunday, January 15th from the Beverly Hilton.)

Through December 30th, star chef Charlie Trotter will be celebrating his silver anniversary. And for this 25th anniversary occasion, American Express card members are invited to dine on a quarter century of inspired dishes on Friday, December 30th where they will be welcomed into the private Studio Kitchen with a champagne reception, enjoy a four course menu and depart with an exclusive Charlie Trotter anniversary gift! Happy anniversary, Charlie!!! For more info, please call 800.445.7374.

I’ve had so many exciting media moments lately beginning with the inclusion in Michigan Avenue Magazine as one of their “High Society Style Setters.” This was one of their biggest fashion features yet and I feel so privileged to have been included! Thanks to editor-in-chief Susanna Negovan and publisher Dan Uslan for this exciting opportunity! Also a big shout and thank you to CBS Ch. 2’s Pam Jones who interviewed me about Playboy’s plans to relocate. (To see the interview, please click here! I also had the thrill to return on WGN radio in an interview with top talent and author, John St. Augustine. His latest book, "Living an Uncommon Life," is an inspiration. (To hear this interview, please click here. And last but not least, I had the best time talking to Janelle Price from Chicago 3 Media, along with Bill Maxwell. (Remember Janelle’s name – she is definitely going places!) Chicago 3 Media covers Chicago with lively interviews and terrific videos of events, people and places. (Check out our talk here!) Good luck and thanks to all!

The Aparecio Foundation hosted a “Viva la Vida Masquerade Party” at the W Hotel recently. And even though it said “masquerade party,” no one wore a mask except for NowYouKnow.com’s Katie Cahnmann, who seemed to be the only person who paid attention to the invite bringing a gorgeous gold feathered one that looked like it came straight from Carnival in Venice. There was a fashion show by designers Miriam Cecilia Carlson and Horatio Nieto (expertly styled by Benjamin Cottrell) as well as DJ performances by Sadie Woods and Megan Taylor. The event also celebrated the launch of Hasana’s eCommerce site. (Hasana is the fundraising arm of the Aparecio Foundation which promotes diversity, accessibility and fellowship opportunities to advance academic achievement for low-income, high-potential women in Chicago Public Schools). I was honored to be a co-host with Eric Himel of "Windy City Live." (Click here to see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina!)

Well, that’s this week’s lowdown on some of our city’s highlights! And as Christmas approaches, be alert for diversity in the manger scene, particularly with the Baby Jesus. He just might turn out to be a Chihuahua!