Tag Archives: Marilyn Monroe

March 30, 2012 · 6:43 am

REDMOON’S SPECTACLE LUNATIQUE IS A MOVEABLE FEAST

…COSTUME COUNCIL HOSTS HAL RUBENSTEIN, FACE THE FUTURE FOUNDATION GALA, THE BEST FRENCH TEACHER, HORACIO NIETO PRESENTS, WATCH312’S VIP CLUB PLUS ANOTHER NEW VIDEO AND MORE!

I have been to quite a few galas and fundraisers in my day, but never have I seen such a visual feast like Redmoon Theater’s “Spectacle Lunatique” at the Hudson Club on March 17th. Everywhere you looked, there was something to delight your senses. Theater members and volunteers were riding bicycles dressed in exotic garb serving cosmos from teakettles! Giant colorful balloons would surprise you around corners and you saw people sleeping in flying and twirling bathtubs, a guy scribbling in an ancient notebook high atop a burned-out Victorian room, people dressed as huge birds on 20-foot-long flying bicycles…I tell ya, I thought I had seen just about everything until this gala night – it was surreal! One guest described it as “being right out of a Fellini movie” and I couldn’t agree more! From the very start, upon entering the venue (which truly used to be an old Hudson car dealership), the excitement began with at least 50 theater members forming a gauntlet for guests. As you walked through the gauntlet, wild applause began as if you were an actor receiving accolades. And they did this for EVERY SINGLE GUEST! All through the night, I could hear the applause and it brought a smile to my face. I could imagine some needy guests going in and out multiple times just to hear the applause! It was so cool! The VIP reception, which started earlier than the actual event, began in the front of the venue near its 2222 S. Michigan address. (Guests actually entered from the rear on Wabash since the food trucks were all accessed from there.) The reception, designed in part by the dynamic HGTV star Kevin Grace, was loaded with fantastic and fantastical food stations. The VIP Lounge chefs included David Posey (Blackbird), Efrain Cuevas (Clandestino Supper Club), Valerie Bolon (Culinary Speakeasy), Jeff Pikus (Maude’s Liquor Bar), Jason Vincent (Nightwood), Duncan Biddulph (Rootstock) and Joshua Kulp (Sunday Dinner Club). Food trucks were well represented with the Brown Bag Lunch Truck, Chicago Schnitzel King, Tamale Spaceship, Wagyu Wagon, Curry Cruiser and Hummingbird Kitchen offering up delicious dishes. Delicious desserts were prepared and served by emerging pastry students from the French Pastry School. After the VIP reception, guests were directed into the next room, the aptly-named Spectacle Hall, for a unique fundraising “ask.” Theater members were gathered onstage and began singing for donations…an opera singer would sing out the amount and then the rest of the group would sing a refrain. It was one of the most clever ways to ask for money that I’ve seen in a long time and it must’ve been effective since I saw people waving and raising their hands all over the room! After this unique display, there was a digital countdown to the main event which, in and of itself, made the room hum with expectant excitement. And then the machines were started up and the pageantry began in earnest. All sorts of wild displays of imagination began their turn around the venue and all the while, there were surprising games, smaller displays and a silent auction positioned all around the edges of the room. I felt like I had fallen down the rabbit hole and I didn’t know where to look first! Guests must’ve drained their iPhone capacities capturing it all on their cameras! From 10:30 p.m. until dawn, the space became a huge dance party with more food catered by friends of Redmoon including Manny’s Deli. Redmoon’s directors Jim Lasko and Frank Maugeri said that “this night’s gala was a first step towards a new large-scale public spectacle that Redmoon is planning to build using the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice as a point of departure. We will be performing installments of the piece in high-traffic public venues which will be guerrilla-style, pre-announced, promoted and curated affairs. Some will be brief parades exploring a single contraption. Others may be 15-minute-long performances focused on a narrative event.” Proceeds from this gala will directly fund Redmoon’s artistic mission of community building through the company’s award-winning Neighborhood Arts Programming, public art events and a fraction of the costs associated with running an internationally touring, Chicago-centric not-for-profit arts organization. I just can’t wait to see where they lead us next!!! (Fab photos by Mila Samokhina.)

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Fascinating stories of fashion from the man who knows, Hal Rubenstein, was the order of the day at the recent Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum event hosted by Susanna Negovan, editor of (as if you didn’t know!) Michigan Avenue Magazine. Rubenstein, fashion director of InStyle magazine and author of “100 Unforgettable Dresses” delighted the Casino crowd with insightful stories of some of the most unforgettable dresses and the women who wore them. He shared stories of gowns worn by celebrity icons including the “revenge dress” worn by Princess Diana the night Prince Charles announced his affair with Camilla Parker-Bowles, Elizabeth Hurley’s Gianni Versace “safety-pin” gown worn at the world premiere of “Four Weddings and a Funeral” (which, not surprisingly, was also the night that launched her career), Audrey Hepburn’s long-standing devotion to designer Hubert de Givenchy, and the unforgettable gown worn by Marilyn Monroe as she sang “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy. This event was the first in a series of events planned that will feature high-profile fashion personalities and included a sellout crowd of more than 140 fashion-savvy guests. Costume Council President Nena Ivon, along with luncheon co-hosts, Toni Canada and Dusty Stemer, outdid themselves! Guests also enjoyed lunch and a book signing. Luncheon sponsors included Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event (who donated the flowers) and Greg Hyder (The Peninsula provided guest accommodations). For more info on upcoming events, please visit www.chicagohistory.org. (To see ALL fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here!)

It was a “Night on the Orient Express” for the lucky 325 attendees to this year’s Face the Future Foundation Gala co-chaired by Andrea Cohen and Mary Ann Rose. At the top of the grand staircase of the Four Seasons Hotel, a train engine and railcar slowly made its way around a circular track. Every so often the car stopped and guests hopped on for photo ops. As the crowd sipp
ed cocktails and nibbled on hors d’oeuvres, they perused the extensive silent auction which included items ranging from luxury to sports packages. Dinner and a brief program followed presented by Dr. Mimis Cohen, director of the Craniofacial Center at UICM, and Gus Abello, president of the Foundation. Awards were given to Alisa Bloom, Christine Cantalupo and Melissa Kelz Ben-Yoseph for their work to further the efforts of the Foundation. This dynamic trio chaired last year’s gala while Christine and Melissa were expecting and Alisa was in the middle of a total home renovation. Now THAT’s dedication! The live auction followed, with the top prize raking in $155K for a trip to the Italian Villa located in the Chianti wine region just outside of Florence. The Face the Future Foundation was established to help children face the future by funding some of the costs associated with craniofacial treatment. The Foundation is largely supported by the doctors, nurses and other specialists at the Craniofacial Center at the University of Illinois Chicago. (For more info, please visit www.facethefuturefoundation.org and to see ALL event photos by Onasis Stoby, please click here!)

Now for some upcoming events around town:

Don’t miss designer Horacio Nieto’s “Falling for Paris” fashion show featuring his Fall/Winter 2012 collections on Thursday, April 12th at the Highland Park Community House located at 1991 Sheridan Road. Hosted by Shea Vaughn, this event will begin at 7 p.m. and will feature Diego Rocha (“Project Accessory”), jewelry from Anidem (by designer Jesse Torres) and music by DJ Famos! For more info, please call 872.232.5909.

If you want to learn French from a master who also makes learning fun, then do yourself a favor and enroll in Erwan Sorel’s L’Ecole Francaise, opening on April 9th. I took classes for years from Erwan at the Alliance – he was the only instructor whose classes were always booked full – and now he is opening his own school in Lakeview at 3349 N. Clark. For more info, please call 773.857.1322 or visit www.lef-learn-french.com. Grosses bises et merci!

I am so excited to announce Watch312.com’s new VIP Club! Please sign up to receive email updates on our shows, get exclusive promotions and have the first look into Chicago’s hottest events plus more fun stuff! You can thank me later! 🙂 Please click here for more info.

Thanks so much for checking in this week! I hope you liked what you’ve seen! Please tell your friends and if you would like to be put on my blog alert list, please just email me below. These emails are strictly confidential and will never be shared. Hav
e a great week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. My son, Rooney Jordan, was thrilled to appear on a Ch. 7 news segment recently For Dog’s Sake Boutique, located at 207 W. Superior! He is participating in their Cutest Dog in Chicago Contest and as we wait for the results, check him out on-camera with boutique owner Marcia DeAndrade who is also a doggie wellness expert! Visit her store to see all of these fun things shown here plus a whole lot more!!!

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Tagged as 100 Unforgettable Dresses, A Perfect Event, Alisa Bloom, Alliance, Andrea Cohen, Anidem, Audrey Hepburn, bebe, Blackbird, Brown Bag Lunch Truck, Caitlin Saville Colllins, Camilla Parker-Bowles, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Recommends, Channel 7, Chicago Schnitzel King, Christine Cantalupo, Clandestino Supper Club, Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, Craniofacial Center at UICM, Culinary Speakeasy, Curry Cruiser, Cutest Dog in Chicago Contest, David Posey, Debbi Lilly, Diego Rocha, DJ Famous, Dr. Mimis Cohen, Duncan Biddulph, Dusty Stemer, Efrain Cuevas, Elizabeth Hurley, Erwan Sorel, Face the Future Foundation, Falling for Paris, Fellini, Florence, For Dog’s Sake Boutique, Four Seasons Hotel, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Frank Maugeri, French Pastry School, Gianni Versace, Greg Hyder, Gus Abello, Hal Rubenstein, HGTV, Highland Park Community House, Horacio Nieto, Hubert de Givenchy, Hudson Club, Hummingbird Kitchen, InStyle magazine, Italian Villa, Jason Vincent, Jeff Pikus, Jesse Torres, Jim Lasko, Joshua Kulp, Kevin Grace, L’Ecole Francaise, Manny’s Deli, Marcia DeAndrade, Marilyn Monroe, Mary Ann Rose, Maude’s Liquor Bar, Melissa Kelz Ben-Yoseph, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Neighborhood Arts Programming, Nena Ivon, Night on the Orient Express, Nightwood, Onasis Stoby, President John F. Kennedy, Prince Charles, Princess Diana, Project Accessory, Project Runway, Project Runway All-Stars, Rami Kashou, Redmoon Theatre, Rooney Jordan, Rootstock, Sea Vaughn, Spectacle Lunatique, Sunday Dinner Club, Susanna Negovan, Tamale Spaceship, The Peninsula, Toni Canada, University of Illinois Chicago, Valerie Bolon, VIP Club, Wagyu Wagon, Watch312.com

March 4, 2012 · 8:07 pm

OSCAR FUN AND FASHION AT THE GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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Tagged as 2012 Bear Tie Ball, 24/7, 84th Annual Academy Awards, A Perfect Event, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Akira, Alexandra Wilson, Allan Caliman, Amanda Puck, Anderson Bell, Andersonville, Andrea Metcalf, Andrea Schwartz, Andrew Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Angi Taylor, Animal Magnetism Party, Anne Bernbaum, Anthony Farinas, Ashley Pettit, Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Bid to Save Lives, Bill Natale, Billy Crystal, Bob Mariano, BOKA Group, Brian Kaempen, Bridesmaids, Brotha Fred, Cameron Diaz, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Catie Keogh, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Cultural center, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago Speaker’s Bureau, Chicago Sun-Times, Chinatown, Chris Carlton, Chris Foltz, Chris O’Dea, Cirque du Soleil, Corinne Meier, Corri McFadden, Courtney Weiler, Dante Award, Debi Lilly, Diego Rocha, Dominick’s, Don Gummer, Dr. Steve Stryker, e-Drop Off, Elena Samokhina, Ellen Rudnick, Emile Sile, Eric Weiler, Eva Pawlus, Fanfueled, Fred Jackson, Galleria Marchetti, Gene Siskel Film Center, GusMobile, Haleigh Bernbaum, Hane Laidlow, Hank Bernbaum, Hugo, Irv Kupcinet, Jackson Mackey, James Tarantino, Jamie Sterle, Jean de St Aubin, Jenna Plakut, Jennifer Christianson, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Chastain, Jill Bastian, JMP Global, Joel Mangers, John Basile, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Jon Cotay, Josh Orr, Kamil Bartoszcze, Kara Moore, Kasia Jarosz, Kevin Boehm, Kim Coles, Kim Gleeson, KISS FM, Korean War, Linda Heister, Linda Yu, Lindsay Walter, Lonnie Rodriguez, Macy's, Marilyn Monroe, Matthew Sullivan, Meryl Streep, Midnight in Paris, Mike Mackey, Mila Samokhina, MJ Catering, Moneyball, Monika Dixon, Monika Rydz, Morgan Freeman, National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Neal Lenhoff, Nena Ivon, Nevsy Zee, Nicole Townsend, Nina Mariano, Noah Pettit, North American SNJ-5, Oscar, Patricia Bielecka, Patrick Meyn, Patrycja Drozdek, Paul Earle, Paul Iacono, Paula Fasseas, PAWS Chicago, PAWS Chicago’s Pet Food Bank, Peach Carr, Penelope Cruz, Petco Foundation, Photo Affair Studios, Project Accessory, Project Runway, Rachel Schwanz, Red Pump Project, Reese Witherspoon, Renny Rhanna, Rhythm for a Reason, Richard Doermer, Ritz-Carlton, Rock the Red Fashion Show, Roe Conn, Rogers Park, Roundy’s, Ruth Diaz Fabiny, Ryan Beshel, Sandra Bullock, Sharyl Mackey, Space 519, Split Film Productions, Stella Foster, Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities, Success is a Journey, TALKSCHIC, The Artist, The Descendants, The Help, The Late Show with Jimmy Fallon, The New York Times, Too Faced Cosmetics, Tracy Scurto, Tree of Life, Ukrainian Village, United States Navy, Val Warner, Watch312.com, Windy City Live, Zooey Deschanel, Zoryana Yavorski

February 9, 2012 · 3:30 pm

GENE & GEORGETTI’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY BASH!

…PLUS FANTASY NIGHT AT THE LYRIC, COMMON THREAD’S NEW PARTY, DUSTY, TONI AND NENA HOST HAL, JERRY ROPER’S AWARD, THODOS CELEBRATES 20TH, CS MAGAZINE’S COOL PAGE, A NEW WATCH312 VIDEO AND MORE!

There are not many restaurants around town that can boast about a 70th anniversary party but this was happily the case with steakhouse icon, Gene & Georgetti’s. On Sunday evening January 29th, this venerable restaurant celebrated in grand fashion at Park West with a by-invite-only party for more than 300 friends, family, staff and regulars. The evening, produced expertly by Michelle Durpetti (Michelle Durpetti Events), started off with an hour-long film by Loudbyte Cinematography that included regulars, Chicago notables and family on camera discussing the restaurant’s history and never-before-heard stories. Opening the film was longtime regular Terry “Whitey” Pearson and Charles Herrick. Other “stars” included Phil Stefani (who catered the event), Bobby Hatoff (Allen Bros. supplies the meat to the restaurant), Rich Melman, Dominic DiFrisco, Phil Hanahan, Peter Wright, David Lissner, Lee Flaherty and Vince Conroy among many others. Marion and Tony Durpetti are second generation owners (Marion’s dad, Gene Michelotti, founded the restaurant with a partner) and throughout the film, family and friends recounted tales of this beloved spot. DiFrisco spoke about the time Yankees Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio planned a dinner at the restaurant…but first, he had an aide find out whether or not there were photos of Marilyn Monroe on the wall and, if there were, that they were removed before he came. (Her loss was too raw for him to bear.) There was also a story about Lucille Ball: She had asked if she could have her "Mame" premiere party at the restaurant on Saturday night (which would mean closing the restaurant) and Gene said no. She settled for Sunday and the next thing you know, she marched herself in and wanted to meet the man who said “no.” The premiere party WAS planned at the restaurant and a 5’ X 4’ photo of her – autographed in her own red lipstick – hangs on the wall to this day. Michelle had so many exciting plans for the night including partnering with Tracey Tarantino (ZZazz Productions) to have “legends of the stage and screen” make appearances at the party. I saw Elton, Elvis, Madonna, Tina Turner (aka Darcy DiBuono), Lady Gaga, Prince and Dolly circulating throughout the crowd. Michelle also surprised her parents onstage with a custom- created cake by Tipsy Cake lit with sparklers for their 43rd wedding anniversary. Sugar Chic Designs hosted a delectable “movie concession stand” filled with themed sweets (like miniature chocolate Academy Awards) and Garrett’s Popcorn. After the film, Sway Chicago performed a big band-style set followed by a dazzling, live theatrical number by ZZazz Productions. To the dancing crowd’s delight, a confetti cannon blast signaled the last hour of the evening as DJ Brent Rolland of Fig Media kicked off the evening’s grand finale. There were beautiful floral arrangements by Exquisite Designs as well as a red carpet for photo ops. It was such a memorable evening for everyone who loves this restaurant and this wonderful Durpetti family who have done so much to keep Chicago on the map but also to see the love and power of a caring family and their loyal staffers. Long may they reign! (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to see a clip from the film by Loudbyte, please click here.) Also, check out my coverage of this amazing evening for Watch312.com below!

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It is always an elegant evening at the Lyric Opera but for their 28th Fantasy of the Opera Gala, it was “A Night Under the Czars” for this Russian-themed evening that attracted more than 500 guests. Event Creative designed a night of wonder with ice sculptures of Faberge eggs, frosted glass table chandeliers, golden branches dripping with crystal strands and white peacocks overlooking the Grand Foyer from the Mezzanine. Guests enjoyed Moscow Mule cocktails, champagne and other refreshments while they bid electronically on the extensive silent auction items expertly coordinated by auction chairman Julie Anne Benson. Before a seated dinner by Limelight Catering, top Chicago restaurants provided gourmet tastings. (Participating restaurants included Carnivale, Coco Pazzo, Devon Seafood Grill, Il Mulino, N9NE, Prosecco, Province, Vera and more.) I was thrilled to be a guest of Board Member and Gold Sponsor Ken Norgan and his group of friends that included Jose “Pepe” Conforme, Leslie Hindman, Helen Melchior, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern, Cynthia and Rich Varnes, George Jewell and Karen Harding. Emceed by General Director Anthony Freud, the Fantasy Cabaret performance featured 14 stars of the Lyric’s current and previous seasons. Philip Kraus did a hysterical rendition of Noel Coward’s “Don’t Put Your Daughter on the Stage, Mrs. Worthington” and David Cangelosi, who sang Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” had the crowd joining in on the chorus. We dined like czars and czarinas in boxes 28 and 30 with glowing “Faberge” eggs as centerpieces after the Fantasy Cabaret performance. Chair of the event, Nancy Temple, along with her co-chair Courtney Rosen, welcomed the crowd and Linda Pedian (of American Airlines, the Lyric’s official airline) was the raffle sponsor. (Allison Alexander was Raffle Chairman.) For the first time, Lyric Young Professionals joined in the festivities and enjoyed an exclusive Russian-themed dinner in The Sarah and Peer Pedersen Room by Jewell Events Catering. This LYP event was chaired by Aleksandra Efimova, who had this to say: “As a LYP gala chair and being born in St. Petersburg, Russia, it was a true honor to share the beauty and richness of Russian culture with the gala guests. This event was another important step to strengthen understanding, communication and interest between the U.S. and Russia—something I strongly and passionately believe in.” Other evening sponsors included Guild Board President David Ormesher (whose company, Closerlook, was the presenting sponsor), Donna Van Eekeren, Richard and Susan Kiphart, Elaine and Allan Muchin, Maura Ann McBreen, Bob Finke and Alan Schriesheim among others. Also seen in the crowd were Meg Caswell (a recent HGTV "Design Star" winner) as well as Illinois State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. The evening ended on a sweet note with Blommer Chocolate, e.leaven Food Company, Katherine Anne Confections, Sprinkles Cupcakes and Terry’s Toffee providing dessert treats. All of the Lyric singers stayed around for the after-party taking pix of each other while dancing to Ken Arlen’s Indigo. The Fantasy evening raised more than $470,000 for Lyric programming.

The 20th anniversary party for Thodos Dance Chicago was a return to the roaring ‘20s at their annual Gala on January 28th at the Cultural Center. Legendary Broadway and film veteran, Tony Award-winning choreographer and frequent Thodos collaborator Ann Reinking mixed and mingled with more than 250 of her Chicago fans and the company’s top supporters as Honorary Chair. The evening raised more than $85K for the non-profit Thodos Dance Chicago, a 20-year-old contemporary dance company. One of the evening’s most exciting revelations was the announcement that “Beneath the White City Lights: The Making of an American Ballet Story” by Emmy Award-winning producer Chris Olsen, a half-hour documentary about the making of TDC’s current signature dance, “The White City: Chicago’s Columbian Exposition of 1893,” co-choreographed by Reinking and Thodos in 2010, would make its broadcast debut on WTTW-TV, Channel 11 on Thursday, February 23 at 10:30 p.m. The evening also included a surprise video tribute to founder Melissa Thodos, “20 Years in 20 Minutes,” as well as the always popular “Dancing with the Thodos Stars,” an inspiring performance by the Thodos/Menomonee Club Youth Ensemble, pre-dinner cabaret music courtesy of Tommy Hensel and Dan Stetzel, dancing to the Swing Assembly orchestra plus a sit-down dinner, silent auction and a wine roulette. If you haven’t seen this company perform, then you are missing out on some incredibly dedicated and talented dancers. (Stay tuned for more exciting Thodos news in my next blogazine!)

Common Threads will be hosting its first Bright Threads event on Sunday, March 11th at the James Hotel. The benefit will be hosted by Gail Simmons, “Top Chef” judge and Food & Wine magazine director, and will include a chance to attend an intimate VIP book signing and cocktail hour with Gail before the start of the main event. This party will be a seated family-style coursed dinner served on communal tables with the CT Small Threads working alongside the participating chefs to prep, cook and serve. VIP tickets are $500 and general admission tickets are $250. To purchase tickets and for more info, please email Eleanor@commonthreads.org or call 312.329.2501.

The Annie B. Brown Foundation will host an inaugural Gospel Concert on Thursday, March 29th, during Colon Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness of the benefits of colon cancer screenings. Proceeds raised will be donated to the Loretto Hospital Foundation to carry out screenings and educate people on the risks of this disease. The program, which will be emceed by Dr. Sandy Goldberg at Biagio’s at 4242 N. Central, will include a silent auction, dinner and performances by church choirs as well as Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Darius Brooks. For tickets and more info, please visit www.abbfoundation.org or call 630.765.2886.

Hal Rubenstein, fashion director
of InStyle magazine, will have a busy two days when he is in town on March 13th and 14th. Dusty Stemer and Toni Canada will host a party at Blake, located at 212 W. Chicago Ave., on Tuesday, March 13th, from 4 – 7 p.m., to celebrate Rubenstein’s new book, “100 Unforgettable Dresses.” (RSVP to 312.202.0047.) The following day, Toni, Dusty and Nena Ivon will host a conversation with Hal for the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum as he discusses his book and the Fall 2012 collections from the runways of NY, Paris and Milan. This event will be moderated by Susanna Negovan at the Casino, located at195 E. Delaware, beginning at 11:30 am. Tickets are $75. Please RSVP to Wendy Schiller at 312.799.2113.

Congrats to civic leader Jerry Roper for being honored by Mayor Rahm Emanuel with the Chicago Gateway Green Urbs in Horto (city in a garden) Award for his commitment to the greening and beautification of Chicago. The event raised more than $1.1 million for a nine-mile Kennedy Expressway Enhancement Project. As President and CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and a founding member of Gateway Green, Roper led the formation of Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center, an affiliate of the Chamber. The Governor proclaimed the Kennedy/Edens Expressway Junction the Gerald J. Roper Gateway and the Mayor proclaimed January 25th as “Gerald J. Roper Day.” He is also known as an outspoken advocate of public transportation, including aviation, rapid transit and high-speed rail. His aviation advocacy includes service on the National Commission to Ensure Consumer Choice and Information in the Aviation Industry as an appointee of House Speaker Dennis Hastert in 2002. He is also a founding member of Business Leaders for Transportation, which focuses on the various forms of transit and transportation that businesses and their employees use every day. Congrats Jerry and thanks for your dedication to this beautiful city!

Huge congrats to Nina and Bob Mariano (Roundy’s and Mariano’s Fresh Market) who will be ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Friday morning! Too cool for words but I tried!

And finally, a big thank you to CS Magazine for the full page feature about Watch312.com in this month’s issue! And thanks to amazing photographer Anthony Tahlier for his expertise!

Well, that’s it for this week and I hope your team won the Super Bowl! And, did we like Madonna? As far as commercials, my favorites were the Audi vampires and the little dog, “Here, Weego,” for Bud Light…but then you know I’m a sucker for doggie commercials. I especially loved the Facebook shout out at the end for rescue dogs…nice!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats are also in order for author Beth Aldrich! Her new book, “Real Moms Love to Eat,” received rave reviews recently at Michigan Shore Club in Wilmette. (Pic by Mila Samokhina.)

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Tagged as 100 Unforgettable Dresses, A Night Under the Czars, Alan Schriesheim, Aleksandra Efimova, Allan Muchin, Allen Bros., Allison Alexander, American Airlines, Ann Reinking, Annie B. Brown Foundation, Anthony Freud, Anthony Thalier, Audi, Beneath the White City Lights: The Making of an American Ballet Story, Beth Aldrich, Billy Joel, Blommer Chocolate, Bob Finke, Bob Mariano, Bobby Hatoff, Bright Threads, Bud Light, Carnivale, Casino, Charles Herrick, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center, Chris Olsen, Closerlook, Coco Pazzo, Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Common Threads, Courtney Rosen, CS Magazine, Cynthia Varnes, Dan Stetzel, Darcy DiBuono, Darius Brooks, David Cangelosi, David Lissner, David Ormesher, Design Star, Devon Seafood Grill, DJ Brent Rolland, Dolly Parton, Dominic DiFrisco, Donna Van Eekeren, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Dusty Stemer, e.leaven Food Company, Elaine Muchin, Elton John, Elvis Presley, Event Creativem Julie Anne Benson, Exquisite Designs, Facebook, Fantasy of the Opera Gala, Fig Media, Food & Wine magazine, Gail Simmons, Gene & Georgetti’s, Gene Michelotti, George Jewell, Gerald J. Roper Day, Gospel Concert, Hal Rubenstein, Heinz Kern, Helen Melchior, HGTV, Il Mulino, InStyle, Jerry Roper, Jewell Events Catering, Joe DiMaggio, Jose “Pepe” Conforme, Judy Baar Topinka, Karen Harding, Katherine Anne Confections, Ken Arlen’s Indigo, Ken Norgan, Lady Gaga, Lee Flaherty, Leslie Hindman, Limelight Catering, Linda Pedian, Loretto Hospital Foundation, Loudbyte Cinematography, Lucille Ball, Lyric Opera, Lyric Young Professionals, Madonna, Mame, Mariano’s Fresh Market, Marilyn Monroe, Marion Durpetti, Mary Ann Rose, Maura Ann McBreen, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Meg Caswell, Melissa Thodos, Michelle Durpetti, Michelle Durpetti Events, Michigan Shore Club, Mila Samokhina, N9NE, Nancy Temple, Nena Ivon, New York Stock Exchange, Nina Mariano, Nowel Coward, Park West, Peter Wright, Phil Hanahan, Phil Stefani, Philip Kraus, Prince, Prosecco, Province, Real Moms Love to Eat, rescue dogs, Rich Melman, Rich Varnes, Richard Kiphart, Roundy’s, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Super Bowl, Susan Kiphart, Susanna Negovan, Swing Assembly, Terry “Whitey” Pearson, Terry’s Toffee, The Sarah and Peer Pendersen Room, The White City: Chicago’s Columbian Exposition, Thodos Dance Chicago, Thodos/Menomonee Club Youth Ensemble, Tina Turner, Tommy Hensel, Toni Canada, Tony Durpetti, Top Chef, Tracey Tarantino, Urbs in Horto Award, Vera, Vince Conroy, Watch312.com, Weego, Wilmette, ZZAZZ Productions

November 10, 2011 · 12:48 pm

THE SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO GALA REVISITS CLUB EL MOROCCO!

…PLUS HALLOWEEN FUN, EMMY NEWS, THE JOFFREY BALLET'S NUT, MENDING FENCES, A NEW CHICAGO STREET, A "CLASSY" BOOK, UPCOMING FUN EVENTS AND MORE!

Once upon a time in 1890, 14 young ladies - inspired by Jane Addams of Hull House – met to form a philanthropic organization to improve the lives of the less fortunate. Now, 121 years later, the Service Club of Chicago celebrated this landmark anniversary with its annual Gala, this year themed “An Evening of Glamour at Club El Morocco.” The ballroom of the Four Seasons was magically transported back to an era of elegance and Old World Hollywood glamour where the rich and famous danced and drank the night away against the backdrop of zebra printed banquettes. This Manhattan supper club, famous from the ‘30s thru the ‘50s, celebrated a lifestyle that everyday people could only read about in the newspapers. Where people like Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant, Marilyn Monroe, Marlene Dietrich and Jackie Kennedy Onassis (in both incarnations) mixed and mingled with royalty. Event designer Tom Kehoe was the genius behind this evening’s transformation and, according to some who had visited the original El Morocco, it was true down to the last detail. When I first entered the room, my jaw dropped in amazement; believe you and me, I’ve seen some pretty incredible event venues but nothing like this. Tom had even created zebra banquettes that replaced chairs around many of the tables. The centerpieces featured three-foot-tall, thin crystal vases holding simple white calla lilies or wispy palms evocative of that era. Many of the guests were inspired by the invitation to dress accordingly. I saw beautiful vintage gowns with statement jewelry, fur boas, feathered evening bags, flapper-inspired hairstyles, cigarette holders…there were even old-fashioned cigarette girls selling Cuban cigars while wearing flirty, little pillbox hats, shorts and cropped tuxedo jackets. There were prizes inside some of the cigars such as rounds of golf or dinners at top restaurants. (Insanely clever, right?) I also saw some guests who thought “El Morocco” meant the country of Morocco but this is another story! LOL! The live auction prizes, presented by Jim Karas, were outstanding too and included a trip to Ireland for the Notre Dame/Navy football game ($4,500), three days and two nights on Susan and Fred Gohl’s yacht in Naples, Florida ($3,500), an African photo safari ($6,500), a seven-day Holland America Cruise Line trip for two (your choice of itinerary, $3,750), after-party tickets to the Golden Globes, NY Fashion Week tickets and a trip to Skibo Castle in Scotland. An adorable Havanese puppy from PAWS went to a lucky bidder as well. Raffle prizes included a custom gown by designer Elda de la Rosa, earrings from Pomellato and a John Reilly photography session among others. SC President Sherrill Bodine welcomed the crowd and spoke about dedicating her year as president to the memory of her mother, who was mentally disabled since birth. She said, “Mentally, she never progressed older than six years old. She could not read or write. I am a writer—she was never able to read any of my books. In the years I’ve worked on the Philanthropic Committee and seen the organizations in Chicago which assist women like my mother, I’ve often thought that if she’d lived in this wonderful city she could have been helped. She might have been able to learn to read. What a gift that would’ve been. That is the kind of gift you are giving to others by being here tonight. Thank you for helping us make Chicago a better place in which to live—for everyone.” Emcees Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (struggling with crutches from his recent surgery), spoke about the history of the Service Club and thanked them for their 121 years of service. Event co-chairs Toni Canada, Laurie Davis and Dusty Stemer brought out a sell-out crowd of more than 430 people who danced the night away to the sophisticated dance arrangements by the Ken Arlen Orchestra who played everything from Cole Porter to club music. The orchestra also accompanied special guest performer Shelley MacArthur Farley, who entertained the crowd with her cabaret style. The memorable and delicious dinner menu included potato pumpkin soup, roast beef tenderloin with wild mushroom sauce and asparagus as well as a seasonal trio of desserts. The party continued into the State Room where the Leopard Lounge was in full swing as we said our goodbyes. I could almost hear Truman Capote gossiping in the corner. This year’s Gala raised close to $250K. (Additional photos by Cindy Barrymore, Caitlin Saville Collins and Steve Starr.) Please enjoy my video coverage on Watch312.com and to view ALL event pics, please click here!

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I don’t know about you, but it was a pretty spooky Halloween in my Old Town neighborhood this year. Emmy award winner Steve Weiss of Zacuto Manufacturing, along with his beautiful wife Lucy and sister-in-law Christina Wojtas, hosted a thriller of an evening complete with fog machines, 12-foot-tall ghosts, vampires, bonfires, roasted weenies and marshmallows and witches’ brew along with a cast of local, costumed characters. Steve and Lucy’s ethereal daughter Isabel was dressed as a Victorian vampire (think Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise’s daughter in “Interview with the Vampire”) and she played her part to the hilt complete with pet “rats” (fake, thank God!) she carried around in a cage to scare the bejesus out of guests to peals of laughter (hers). It was a great night with friends who feel like family. Thanks for the memories! (To view all pics, please click here!)

Emmy congratulations go out to Zacuto’s Steve Weiss, Jens Bogehegn and Scott Lynch on their exciting win this weekend! They received the award for “FilmFellas” and now have multiple Emmys on their office shelves! Kudos all around!

And speaking of kudos, congrats to Dr. Arnie Tatar! Mayor Rahm Emanuel recently passed a resolution naming a street after this beloved doc! Can’t wait to drive down Honorary Arnold M. Tatar, MD Way! Congrats to Arnie and his darling family on this great honor!

I met the “The Fence Doctor” Fred Gebbia when he was working on a street near my house…on a fence, of course! You see, Fred is a master iron worker and craftsman who has been featured in a zillion magazines and the Chicago Tribune, among other publications. He built the winning structure on national TV for HGTV’s "Landscape Design Challenge," appeared in “Public Enemies” and the “Garden in a City” show in Millennium Park. He has brought treasured, landmarked Victorian iron fences back to life, many times recreating the missing pieces himself in his studio. He has worked on many celebrity homes and to show you the kind of guy he is, he didn’t want to share their names unless he got their permission. He’s not interested in expanding his company to multiple crews since he makes sure he’s on every job himself “to make sure it’s done right.” He laughs and says, “That means I’ll never get rich but I don’t think that’s why we’re here on earth.” This guy is the real deal from the inside out and as the Carly Simon song goes, “Nobody does it better…” To learn more, email Fred here.

The holiday season is fast approaching and during this time of the year, my thoughts turn to nutcrackers – as in the The Joffrey Ballet’s annual crowd pleaser known affectionately as “America’s #1 Nutcracker” which begins on Saturday, December 9th and runs through the 27th at the Auditorium Theatre. On Saturday, December 10th, The Women’s Board of The Joffrey Ballet presents the Nutcracker Family Dinner which will be held at the Palmer House Hilton in the State and Grand Ballrooms. The enchanting evening will feature entertainment for children and adults alike, a traditional family-style meal, and of course, a thrilling performance of Robert Joffrey’s The Nutcracker. Guests will have the option of attending the matinee or evening performance of The Nutcracker on December 10th. The evening’s co-chairs Sonya Jackson and Cindy Burns, both Women’s Board members, have created an evening of family fun. The delightful evening begins at 4:00 PM on the fourth floor of the Palmer House in the State Ballroom with cocktails, punch, lively entertainment and special “Creation Stations” that the entire family can enjoy. At 5:15 PM, guests will be seated in the Grand Ballroom for a traditional family-style meal. It is a tradition you should begin now!

Desiree Rogers, Susu Block and Kara Mann co-hosted a party in PUBLIC Chicago’s Library to celebrate the launch of Derek Blasberg’s latest book, “Very Classy: Even More Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady.” Blasberg is a fashion writer, editor and New York Times best-selling author who was born in St. Louis now lives in NY (with his dachshund named Monster) where he is the editor-at-large of Harper’s Bazaar and senior editor of V magazine and VMAN, the fashion titles from arts collective Visionaire. His latest book, an expanded, updated and revamped version of his original best seller - “Very Classy” – is a collection of humorous essays and illustrations that pertain to etiquette. Harper’s Bazaar said, “He is to parties what Rob Pattinson is to vampires but you don’t get bitten, you get smitten.” In its second week, “Very Classy” was certified a New York Times best seller and has since been translated into several languages and published in countries in Asia, South America and Europe. (To order his book, please click here!)

The Chicago Academy of Dance is hosting a “More Dinner Than Dance” soiree at Tantrik Chicago, located at 800 Superior, on Friday, November 18th, from 7 – 10 PM with an after-party from 10 PM – 2 AM. This formal party will benefit the renovation of their first location at 3433 S. Indiana Ave. CAM offers free music education through a variety of programs for children who are undeserved and/or chronically poor in the South and West sides of Chicago. This event will showcase the finest vocalists, instrumentalists and dancers Chicago has to offer. For tickets and more info, please visit www.CAMChicago.org.

Well, that’s the lowdown on this week’s fun highlights! Hope you’re having a great week and I hope to “see” you here next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I conducted a little Facebook Halloween Contest and I had lots of creative entries but, hands down, my favorite was "24/7" producer Jeff Conway’s! Both the name and the costume made me giggle – take a look at his “Jack (Daniels) and the Beanstalk” look if you want a laugh, too! He’s a brave man! To see all of the cute entries, please click here!

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Tagged as 24/7, An Evening of Glamour at Club El Morocco, Caitlin Saville Collins, Carly Simon, Cary Grant, Chicago Academy of Dance, Chicago Tribune, Christina Wojtas, Cindy Barrymore, Cindy Burns, Clark Gable, Derek Blasberg, Desiree Rogers, Dr. Arnie Tatar, Dusty Stemer, elda de la rosa, FilmFellas, Four Seasons, Fred Gebbia, Garden in a City, Harper’s Bazaar, HGTV, Honorary Arnold M. Tatar MD Way, Hull House, Interview with the Vampire, Isabel Weiss, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Jane Addams, Jeff Conway, Jens Bogehegn, Jim Karas, Jimmy Stewart, John Reilly, Kara Mann, Ken Arlen Orchestra, Landscape Design Challenge, Laurie Davis, Lucy Weiss, Marilyn Monroe, Marlene Dietrich, More Dinner Than Dance, New York Times, Nutcracker, Nutcracker Family Dinner, Palmer House Hilton, Pomellato, Public Enemies, Rahm Emanuel, Robert Joffrey’s The Nutcracker, Robert Pattinson, Ryan Chiaverini, Scott Lynch, Service Club of Chicago, Shelley MacArthur Farley, Sherrill Bodine, Sonya Jackson, Steve Starr, Steve Weiss, Susu Block, The Fence Doctor, The Joffrey Ballet, Tom Kehoe, Toni Canada, Truman Capote, V magazine, Valerie Warner, Very Classy, Very Classy: Even More Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady, Visionaire, VMAN, Zacuto Manufacturing