Tag Archives: Mary Ann Childers

May 2, 2013 · 10:14 am

THE STANLEY PAUL SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT: A SPECIAL NIGHT WITH FRIENDS

…PLUS THE JOFFREY BALLET’S SPRING GALA; FLEUROTICA; SWAROVSKI CELEBRATES SAIC’S “THE WALK”; MICHAEL AND YVETTE’S COOL WEDDING GIFT; CHICAGO BOTANICAL GARDEN’S ANTIQUES FAIR; TAILS IN THE CITY CELEBRATES NINE!; LEAGUE OF CHICAGO THEATRES’ SPRING GALA; STELLA’S LATEST HONOR; “CHECK, PLEASE!” HOST FINALISTS; RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES’ BMUG ON WATCH312.COM AND SO MUCH MORE!

I’ve never done this before so please forgive me but I’m including the recent Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Benefit in my blog this week. Why you ask
do I beg forgiveness? Because this year, I was the evening’s honoree and it was such a wonderful night with so many friends who turned out that I would like
to share it with you. (I hope you enjoy it!) I received a call from the Apparel Industry Board a few months ago. It was Marsha Brenner: “Hello Candace. The Stanley Paul Foundation
would like to honor you this year at the Casino. Just say ‘yes.’” Are you kidding me? HELL YES!!! You could’ve knocked me over with a feather! My mind flew in a thousand different directions with the first thought being how very
humbled I felt to be receiving this honor, especially following in the footsteps of Chicago notables who included Hazel Barr, Mamie Walton, Bill Zwecker, Nena Ivon,
Dori Wilson, Leslie Hindman, Donna LaPietra, Mary Ann Childers, Mark Heister, Tony Jones, Victor Skrebneski and the late Beverly Blettner, among others. I also panicked wondering
if anyone would even show up. And then when Marsha mentioned I would need to choose some speakers, I relaxed and knew this would be an evening filled with friends…no need to worry.
It was easy to choose who I would ask to speak for me. I’ve known Rhonda Sanderson longer than anyone else in Chicago. She was the first person I met at the original Playboy
Mansion after Hef and we became and still are great friends – she was even the maid of honor at my wedding. Thank goodness she said yes. I also asked Helen Melchior, a relatively new friend by comparison
but one with whom I have already shared a lifetime of wonderful memories. I met Helen through the Joffrey Ballet and we have never looked back. I love her and I love her beautiful family, too. I’ve known the human
tornado, better known as Leslie Hindman, for 32 years. Words can’t describe how much I admire her for her incredible business acumen but what I love the most about her is her loyalty to her friends. Legendary
funnyman Tom Dreesen and I have been friends since our days on Rush Street. Even though he’s traveled far and wide making the world laugh including Frank Sinatra,
he’s never forgotten his Harvey, Ill. roots, never uses foul language and always has a positive outlook. How could you NOT love him? When I first met Chicago Tribune VP/associate editor Joycelyn Winnecke, she
was seated behind this BIG desk with four other high-powered execs for my interview for my Sunday column. I was shaking in my shoes, as you can imagine, but her kindness, honesty
and intelligence made me realize I had a friend here no matter what happened. Thankfully, she hired me and I sure hope you’re all reading my Sunday Candid Candace column! I first met Donna LaPietra when she
was the chair of the “Having a Ball” program which introduced Chicago Public School kids to ballroom dancing. (Dori Wilson, another Stanley Paul honoree, got me involved
with this wonderful event.) It was so intimidating to walk into this meeting with so many notable Chicagoans seated around this massive conference table. And I’ll
never forget the first thing she said: “Don’t cha just want to get up there and dance?” Well, it was astounding to me how this dynamic, well-connected woman could be so down to earth. She is not only
my friend but a great friend to Chicago, too. So now, I had my dream team of speakers in place and the next thought was, “OMG, what will I wear?” Well, a few weeks earlier I had run into the
renowned local designer Barbara Bates at WVON’s 50th anniversary gala. She had an outfit on that was so stunning, I became her stalker for the evening. I finally asked, “Barbara, do you
think you could design something for me for my event on April 24th?” She said yes and inwardly I screamed with excitement. I also wore the most incredible jewelry that night
from the legendary house of Van Cleef & Arpels – the diamonds were so bright and beautiful, I needed sunglasses. In short, I felt like a fairy princess. The event was held at the very exclusive, very private club, the Casino on Delaware. Their rules restrict any photography of the decor
but trust me, it is exquisite beyond measure. When the day arrived, I was told my event was the largest one they’ve ever hosted for the Stanley Paul Foundation Benefit with almost 400 people in attendance. I was (and still am!) on cloud
nine. A Perfect Event’s Debi Lilly did the most, well, perfect floral arrangements: There were glorious mixed bouquets with white hydrangeas on every table and the piece de
resistance was a life-size portrait done by beloved artist Rosemary Fanti that she had placed on an easel for everyone to sign. This is a memory I will always cherish and can’t believe
how lucky I am to have such supportive friends. Stanley spoke first thanking the crowd and sharing the story of his beautiful sister, Raelene Mittleman. (This scholarship was created in her honor by her loving brother.) Her love and
devotion to the world of fashion and design inspired him to establish this foundation in 1990. Proceeds from the event will help support local fashion design students and give
them a leg-up on their dreams. Sun-Times entertainment columnist/Fox news reporter Bill Zwecker was the event chair and emcee; always perfection at the podium, his words are right
on target and he never needs notes. He truly is Mr. Chicago and I was so excited to have him there! And then the speakers began. Their words made me cry and Donna’s video even included
one of the earliest clips of me as a Playboy Bunny with legendary newscaster John “Bulldog” Drummond. My voice was so young and squeaky I barely recognized
myself! Where she found this clip, I will never know but suffice it to say, this video will also be a cherished possession. (You can see it below.) Joyce teased me about how aghast
the newsroom reporters were over my emails with happy faces and exclamation points. Leslie shared memories of two African American people who raised me and who really were surrogate
parents to me, Mary and Jim Johnson, for which I was so very grateful. Helen spoke about our Joffrey memories and how we are always there for each other through good times and bad and I
added we joke that we “share the same organs.” Rhonda should’ve been a stand-up comedian – she had the audience laughing so hard. It was one of the most
memorable nights of my life and I want to thank all of my friends who attended from the bottom of my heart. I know there was a fabulous buffet served but who had time to eat!? And last but
not least, Eli’s Cheesecake even created little chocolate truffle cakes as a giveaway with my picture on top. My heart is full and I may never come
down off this cloud. Thanks for listening and thanks to all who shared this memorable night with me! A special thanks to AIBI’s Marsha Brenner and Kevin Sullivan who made everything seem so effortless. 🙂 It was truly an evening I will never forget! (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, another beloved friend, click here.)

The Women’s Board of The Joffrey Ballet hosted its annual Spring Gala on April 19th and it was a huge success, thanks to dynamic co-chairs Deborah and Cody Engle and Astrid (Mrs. McKay) McKinnon! Nearly 800 people attended the spectacular celebration of
the company and its educational programs. The gala raised more than $1.23 million to help the Joffrey positively impact the lives of thousands of children, teens and young adults each year through their Community Engagement and Joffrey Academy of Dance programs. The annual black-tie
event began at 6:30 p.m. at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University with unforgettable performance pieces by The Joffrey Ballet company, including a new piece entitled “Prokofiev
Suite,” created by Alexei Kremnev, the artistic director of the Joffrey Academy of Dance, the official school of The Joffrey Ballet. In addition to this world premiere, the company performed Gerald
Arpino’s “Light Rain” and other pieces curated by artistic director Ashley Wheater for this happy occasion. New this year, the program featured the Joffrey company dancers and 100-plus Joffrey students, including the 40 trainees who hail from
Brazil, Mexico, Spain, Australia, France, Japan, Korea and the U.S.!! Highlighted throughout the evening were the transformations and inspirations of a dancer, from the Community Engagement and Joffrey
Academy of Dance students to the internationally renowned company dancers. Following the performances, guests were whisked away via trolleys to the Chicago Hilton for cocktails and dinner in the Grand Ballroom. Guests were treated to a delicious menu
created just for the gala by the Chicago Hilton’s Executive Chef Mario Garcia. After dinner, the evening was topped off with a lively after-party, as guests joined the Joffrey company members for
dancing in the “Blue Star Lounge.” The Hilton was transformed with amazing dance-inspired floral designs and complementary lighting. Bill Pollack Music entertained guests from the
moment they arrived at the Hilton and all during dinner with a full orchestra. A DJ with live Latin percussionists entertained at the after-party. I was thrilled to present the Luxury Live auction with master auctioneer Greg Dellinger (aka G-Man). Fabulous packages guaranteed to impress included Business Class travel via the Joffrey’s official airline (United) with top-notch
accommodations at Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands and at Pristine Bay Resort on the island of Roatán (off the coast of Honduras) and two exclusive dinners in the home of Ashley Wheater. The Spring Gala
Presenting Sponsor was BMO Private Bank; the Dinner Sponsor was Alphawood Foundation Chicago; the Evening Sponsors were the Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation and Mr. Fred Eychaner; the Women’s Board Media Partner was Make It Better and the Gala Video Sponsor was the Edward and Lucy R. Minor Family Foundation. Congrats to all on another beautiful, successful year! (To view ALL event pics, please click here!)

Fleurotica, the hot, haute couture runway show where flowers take center stage, will take place on June 12th, so mark your calendars now! This is one of the most creative events I’ve ever attended with floral designs masquerading as high fashion that will take your breath away! To see a sneak peek, take a look at my Watch312.com video below! This year’s co-chairs, Shauna Montgomery, Whitney Lasky and Deirdre Koldyke, have planned an exciting evening at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Honorees will include Dr. Gwen Rodgers, Jackie McKay, Mary Nelson and Reverend Eudory Ramey, founders of Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance. The Mayor and Theaster Gates are serving as honorary chairs. For tickets and more info, please visit www.garfieldconservatory.org.

I can’t WAIT to attend the School of the Art Institute’s “The Walk” on May 3rd for its 79th annual fashion show. To celebrate this milestone event, Swarovski – the leading designer of fashion jewelry and the
presenting sponsor – hosted a cocktail reception recently to unveil its window installation in honor of Fashion 2013. This is Swarovski’s third year partnering with this prestigious design institution and will be supporting its
students by providing jewelry and crystals to compliment and complete their designs for the show as well as supporting the SAIC Fashion Department Scholarship Fund. Swarovski also provided jewelry to create a visual window display at its flagship store at 540 N.
Michigan (through December 31st) by students and faculty from the school’s master’s program mentored by Nick Cave, professor for the fashion design department. For more info for “The Walk,” please visit www.saicfashion.org.

The Walter and Connie Payton Foundation Celebrity Bartending Event, hosted recently at the Glen Prairie restaurant, included a fun-filled evening with Brittney, Jarrett and Connie Payton as well as super radio personality Eddie V. All bar tips benefited the WCPF charity including the amazing line up of
autograph auction items. To add to the special evening, the City of Glen Ellyn presented the Payton family with a proclamation naming April 24th the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation Day. Awwww…love this! Congrats to the Paytons!

The Michael Jordan/Yvette Prieto nuptials are history now with the lovebirds back in their 35,000-square-foot nest in the elegant Bears Club in Jupiter, Florida. Guests are still talking about the wedding tent which, according to my sources, was one of the world’s largest at 40,000 square feet! It was even bigger than their house! I can only imagine the wedding gifts they must’ve received – after all, what would you ever buy for Michael
Jordan that he didn't already have? Well, I bet none topped this idea for the legendary basketball superstar and his model wife: Upper Deck (the world’s leading sports memorabilia company) created a one-of-a-kind Michael Jordan wedding card. The oversized card, named “Shining Moments,” has been signed by 16 athletes and celebrities who are friends of the famous
couple. Upper Deck’s marketing manager Chris Carlin said, “Upper Deck has enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Michael Jordan over the years. We wanted to create something that would be meaningful, not only to Michael, but to his new wife Yvette as well. Over the past few weeks, we have worked to collect a variety of autographs from sports legends and personalities who are close to both Michael and Yvette. Our Athlete
Relations Team did an amazing job of collecting 16 autographs.” Carlin pointed out that this is also the first collectible to feature the couple together. This unique gift is signed by Ahmad Rashad, Brandi Chastain, Brett Hull, Chris Chelios, Dwight Freeney, Flex Alexander, Julius Erving, Ken Griffey, Jr., Mario Lemieux, Richard Dent, Ron Harper, Salli Richardson, Toni Kukoc, Vince Coleman, Wayne Gretzky and Winn McMurry. It’s good to be king! (For more pics and info from the wedding, please click here!)

On May 8th, I hope you can join me for the launch party to introduce the new BlackBerry Z10 at Untitled (111 W. Kinzie) with Jonny Imerman of Imerman Angels and Katie Schroeder of Ronald McDonald House Charities. The party will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Please RSVP to RSVPChicago@ModernLuxury.com. Hope to see you there!

Happy 9th anniversary to Tails in the City! To celebrate, they are hosting a party at Proof Nightclub (1045 N. Rush St.) on May 10th. In addition to hors d’oeuvres and an open bar, the night will also include red carpet photos, pet psychic Denise Zak, doggie massages, pet portraits, doggie makeovers, goodie bags and more! Proceeds will benefit the Anti-Cruelty Society. For tickets ($60 in advance, $75 at the door), please visit www.tailsinthecity.com or call 312.649.0347. Happy anniversary, Bruce and Phillip…thanks for all you do for us and our four-legged friends!

Congrats are also in order for Leah Chavie and her fabulous Leah Chavie Skincare Center & Boutique at 2500 and 2457 N. Halsted! Celebrate her three years in business AND the VIP Grand Opening (presented by Platinum Events) of her new space from 6 to 9 p.m. at both locations.

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago along with Holy Family Villa and the Bishop Lyne Residence hosted “An Evening to Honor Bishop Timothy J. Lyne” on April 13th. Bishop Timothy Lyne was
presented with the Holy Family Caritas Sanctae Familiae Award in recognition of his 70 years of the ordination to the priesthood, 30 years of his ordination as bishop and for his love and dedication to the people of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The event took place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers and included a reception, dinner and program. Guests enjoyed fine cuisine and entertainment by the City
Lights Orchestra and proceeds from the dinner benefitted the Holy Family Villa Expansion Project. The honorary chairman was Monsignor Michael M. Boland and the event chairs were Reverend John R. Gorman and Monsignor John A. Kuzinskas. Congrats Bishop Lyne!

More than 600 guests were undeterred by area floods and determined to enjoy spring at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Antiques & Garden Fair Preview Evening. Though the flooding required “all hands on deck,” the party was smooth sailing: The event raised $250,000 for the Garden’s conservation, education and research programs! Preview partygoers dined on a selection of sumptuous dishes prepared by Jewell Events as they shopped an exquisite array of antiques from 120 exhibitors from the United
States and Europe. The Preview Evening was co-chaired by Kimberly and Randy Burt, Peggy and Jack Crowe, Kathy and Chris Deveny, and Kate and J.T. Fitzgerald. Returning for its 13th year, the Antiques & Garden Fair featured four lectures including one by Michael S. Smith, one of the most original and respected talents in the design industry today. Smith, the fair’s honorary chair, attended the Preview. Five of the Chicago area’s premier landscape designers donated indoor display gardens to interpret the theme, “Color in the Garden: An Artist’s View,” including Craig Bergmann Landscape Design, Inc., William Heffernan Landscapes, Mariani
Landscape, The Organic Gardener and Maria Smithburg with Manfredini Landscaping & Design. Principal sponsor of the 2013 Antiques & Garden Fair was BMO Harris Bank; additional support provided by American Airlines, Bonterra Organic Vineyards and Plante Moran. Co-producers of the 2013 Antiques & Garden Fair were Cathy Busch, Susan Canmann, Jen Kasten, Donna LaPietra, Jane O’Neil and Peggy Swartchild and artistic director Bill Heffernan. (Photos by Cheri Eisenberg.)

The League of Chicago Theatres will present its 2013 Spring Gala, an elegant, extravagant evening celebrating the 175th anniversary of Chicago theater. This event will bring together supporters from the community to champion more than 200 Chicago theatre companies. This year’s event will be held on May 20th at 5:30 p.m. in the
Grand Ballroom of the luxurious InterContinental Chicago, located at 505 N. Michigan Avenue. This year, the League will honor Jeff Perry as the recipient of the 2013 Tribute Award. Writers’ Theatre’s Artistic Director Michael Halberstam will receive the 2013 Artistic Leadership Award. The Jeff Committee, now celebrating its 45th anniversary, will receive the
first-ever Theatre Advocacy Award and the 16th Street Theater will receive the fifth annual Broadway in Chicago Emerging Theatre Award. Individual tickets are $300 and tables of 10 are $3,000. All proceeds from ticket sales and contributions directly support the League’s programs and services to more than 200 Chicago theatre companies. For more information and tickets, contact Nancy Weber at 312-554-9800 or nancy@chicagoplays.com.

This woman is going to have to buy a bigger trophy case! Beloved scribe Stella Foster will be receiving the first ever Woman of the Decade Legend of Print Media Award from the All-Illinois 2013 Coalition Banquet Awards Selection Committee. The theme of this year’s awards ceremony is “People Who Have Made A Difference.” This huge honor will be presented to our Stella at the Coalition for United Community Action-ORTC, Inc., 41st Annual Unity Testimonial Awards Banquet on June 7th at the Palmer House Hilton. (Whew, that’s a
mouthful!) So deserving Stella since you are someone who HAS made such a difference!! And I know you’re blogging, tweeting and Facebooking now – follow her on Twitter @Stellascolumn and on Facebook at Stella Foster – BUT I still miss reading your work in the paper! Love you and congrats AGAIN on yet another wonderful, deserving award!

Well, finally the weather is heating up making it the perfect time for PATIOS in Chicago! One of my new favorites is the downtown Rush Street location of Giordano’s Famous Chicago Pizza, located at 730 N. Rush St. Recently, Javier Colon (winner of Season 1 of “The Voice”) played at a benefit there and Tampa Bay Ray’s pitcher Matt Moore ate din-din with his family there. (They loved the stuffed version.) Other Giordano fans include Lady Gaga
and her boyfriend/“Chicago Fire” star Taylor Kinney, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, Channing Tatum, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Taylor Lautner and many more! I can’t wait! Woot woot! And it certainly doesn’t hurt that D. Rose is now their awesome spokesperson either!

The five finalists have just been announced for WTTW's "Check, Please!" host position! They are Senam Amegashie (freelance writer), Donny de Castro (owner of Tavern on the Park), Catherine De Orio (president of Culinary Curator), Sarah Levy (magazine editor and owner of S. Levy Foods) and Ina Pinkney (chef/owner of Ina's). Good luck to ALL!

I hope you were able to join in on the fun on Sunday in my Candid Candace column in the Chicago Tribune! I covered the BIG masquerade ball benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, “Big Mac Under Glass.” To read my column and see all of the pics, please click here and to see the fun for yourself, watch my Watch312.com video below of this cool night in Chicago! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed covering this amazing event!

http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=13Y3RhYjqXPHC_N88NV5XvdktJt4dX4h&version=2

Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition of Candid Candace! The weather has finally broken and it’s time to break out our grills again! Yippee! Enjoy your day and I hope to see you here again next week!

Love, as always,
Candace 🙂
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congratulations are in order for newlyweds Rachel and James DeMarte, who sealed their vows recently at Paradisus Playa del Carmen Hotel on the Mayan Riviera with lots of friends. What a beautiful bride!

P.P.S. Keep those congratulations going for Sharyl and Mike Mackey who just recently welcomed two new bundles of joy to their family – Aidan and Reed Mackey. Welcome to the world little ones!

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Tagged as 16th Street Theater, A Perfect Event, Ahmad Rashad, AIBI, Alexei Kremnev, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, American Airlines, Anti-Cruelty Society, Antiques & Garden Fair Preview Evening, Apparel Industry Board, Ashley Wheater, “An Evening to Honor Bishop Timothy J. Lyne, Barbara Bates, Beverly Blettner, Big Mac Under Glass, Bill Heffernan, Bill Pollack Music, Bill Zwecker, Bishop Lyne Residence, Bitter End Yacht Club, BlackBerry Z10, BMO Harris Bank, BMO Private Bank, Bonterra Organic Vineyards, Brandi Chastain, Brett Hull, Brittney Payton, Broadway in Chicago, Bruno Mars, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Casino, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Cathy Busch, Channing Tatum, Chef Mario Garcia, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Chicago Fire, Chicago Hilton, Chicago Tribune, Chris Carlin, Chris Chelios, Chris Deveny, City Lights Orchestra, Coalition for United Community Action-ORTC Inc. 41st Annual Unity Testimonial Awards Banquet, Color in the Garden: An Artist’s View, Community Engagement, Connie Payton, Craig Bergmann Landscape Design, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, Debi Lilly, Deirdre Koldyke, Denise Zak, Derrick Rose, Donna LaPietra, Dori Wilson, Dr. Gwen Rodgers, Dwight Freeney, Eddie V., Edward and Lucy R. Minor Family Foundation, Eli's Cheesecake, Fleurotica, Flex Alexander, Frank Sinatra, Fred Eychaner, Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Gerald Arpino, Giordano’s Famous Chicago Pizza, Glen Prairie, Greg Dellinger, Having a Ball, Hazel Barr, Holy Family Villa, Holy Family Villa Expansion Project, Hugh Hefner, Imerman Angels, Inc., InterContinental Chicago, J.T. Fitzgerald, Jack Crowe, Jackie McKay, James DeMarte, Jane O’Neil, Jarrett Payton, Javier Colon, Jeff Committee, Jeff Perry, Jen Kasten, Jewell Events, Jim Johnson, Joffrey Academy of Dance, Joffrey Spring Gala, John “Bulldog” Drummond, Jonny Imerman, Joycelyn Winnecke, Jr., Julius Erving, Justin Bieber, Kate Fitzgerald, Kathy Deveny, Katie Schroeder, Ken Griffey, Kevin Sullivan, Kimberly Burt, Lady Gaga, League of Chicago Theatres, Leah Chavie, Leah Chavie Skincare Center & Boutique, Leslie Hindman, Light Rain, Make it Better, Mamie Walton, Manfredini Landscaping & Design, Maria Smithburg, Mariani Landscape, Mario Lemieux, Mark Heister, Marsha Brenner, Mary Ann Childers, Mary Johnson, Mary Nelson, Matt Moore, Mayor Emanuel, Michael Halberstam, Michael Jordan, Michael S. Smith, Mike Mackey, Mila Samokhina, Monsignor John A. Kuzinskas, Monsignor Michael M. Boland, Nena Ivon, Nick Cave, Peggy Crowe, Peggy Swartchild, Plante Moran, Platinum Events, Playboy Bunny, Playboy mansion, Pristine Bay Resort, Prokofiev Suite, Rachel DeMarte, Randy Burt, Reverend Eudory Ramey, Reverend John R. Gorman, Rhonda Sanderson, Richard Dent, Ron Harper, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, Rosemary Fanti, Salli Richardson, School of the Art Institute, Selena Gomez, Sharyl Mackey, Shauna Montgomery, Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, Shining Moments, Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Benefit, Stella Foster, Susan Canmann, Swarovski, Tails in the City, Tampa Bay Rays, Taylor Kinney, Taylor Lautner, Taylor Swift, The Organic Gardener, The Voice, The Walk, Theaster Gates, Tom Dreesen, Toni Kukoc, Tony Jones, United Airlines, Upper Deck, Van Cleef & Arpels, Victor Skrebneski, Vince Coleman, Walter and Connie Payton Foundation, Walter and Connie Payton Foundation Day, Watch312.com, Wayne Gretzky, Whitney Lasky, William Heffernan Landscapes, Winn McMurry, Woman of the Decade Legend of Print Media, Women’s Board of the Joffrey Ballet, Yvette Prieto

November 16, 2012 · 12:08 pm

PAWS-ITIVELY THE BEST FUR BALL YET…AND BILLY CORGAN HELPED!

…PLUS SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO CELEBRATES 122ND GALA, LUXURY GARAGE SALE’S GRAND OPENING, CHICAGO DEFENDER’S NEWSMAKERS GALA, L’ECOLE DE CHOIX IS LISTENING, WORLD OF CHOCOLATE’S TASTY FUNDRAISER, HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS, WALTER WRITES A BOOK, CHICAGO TOY & GAME SHOW, THE CAROLING PARTY CELEBRATES 26 AND SO MUCH MORE!

A record 725 guests escorting 150 pet companions gathered at The Drake Hotel on Friday, November 9th for a special evening of elegance and compassion at PAWS Chicago’s 11th Annual Fur Ball. As Chicago’s premier pet-friendly black tie gala, the event raised more than $1,000,000 which will go directly to saving the lives of Chicago’s homeless animals, making it the most successful Fur Ball to date. Lucky pups in attendance indulged in a doggie buffet served in crystal goblets and received pampered treatments in the Dog Spa, complete with an animal masseuse and paw-dicures. Meanwhile, their human counterparts enjoyed an elegant dinner buffet, silent and live auctions, raffle, dancing, people and pet illustrations by Rosemary Fanti and insight into their pet’s thoughts through animal communicator, Alicia Halloran. Presented by A. Marek Fine Jewelry, Chopper Trading and The Drake Hotel, the event was co-chaired by Joanna Mallers, Rita Moore and Lauren and Sandy Walfish. Honorary chairs Bonnie and Jim Spurlock were celebrated for their long-term dedication and generosity to helping save the lives of homeless pets. The David Duffield Family received the PAWS Chicago Visionary Award for their exemplary work on a national scale with Maddie’s Fund, which is dedicated to building no-kill communities. (Maddie’s Fund has donated more than $300 million to date in their efforts to make this a no-kill nation.) The highlight of the evening was the exciting live auction, featuring one-of-a-kind items. Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan helped auction off a private acoustic performance and sit-down tea with him at his new Highland Park tea house, Madame Zuzu’s. After a bidding war between three guests, Billy generously offered the same chance to each bidder, all together raising $90,000 for homeless pets. This chance of
a lifetime went to Kristy Kitzmiller, Mayari Pritzker and Nancy Timmers. “Like many of you in this room, I’m a pet lover. Two of my kitties came from PAWS, they were left in a box in 2003,” said Corgan. “The mother only had one eye and was missing a leg and I adopted two of her kittens. So every day of my life, I feel blessed to have these kittens and it’s because of an organization like this that they exist.” Earning the opportunity to have their pet featured on the cover of the 2013 PAWS Chicago Desktop Calendar was John & Rita Canning, with a winning bid of $22,000. A portrait sitting with renowned celebrity photographer Victor Skrebneski (donated by Skrebneski himself) was won by Nancy Timmers for $18,000. And a luxurious trip to Beijing brought in $13,000, purchased by Melinda McMullen and donated by American Airlines, Grand Hyatt Beijing, Park Hyatt Beijing and Grand Hyatt Shanghai. Additional auction items included four VIP tickets to “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” a five night stay in a gorgeous Dominican Republic villa and tickets to the 2013 Grammy Awards and the official after-party. Presenting sponsor Raj Fernando of Chopper Trading raised his hand during the “Bid to Save Lives” and committed to a $63,000 matching gift for spay/neuter surgeries for pets of low-income families, which was fulfilled by three generous donors. “The success of this year’s Fur Ball directly translates into PAWS Chicago being able to increase the number of animals we save,” said PAWS Chicago founder and chair Paula Fasseas. “With no government funding, we are reliant on support from our animal-loving community and events like the Fur Ball are essential to continuing our life-saving work.” To learn more about this wonderful organization, please visit www.PawsChicago.org. (Photos courtesy of Sparenga, Malia Rae and Richard Chen Photography, Alexis Fasseas and moi…to see MORE event pics, please click here!) Stay tuned for my Watch312.com video coverage coming SOON!

The Service Club of Chicago celebrated its 122nd gala on November 2nd at the Four Seasons Hotel. The sounds of violins filled the air as more than 400 guests ascended the stairway for the opening reception outside the Grand Ballroom. As always, the extensive silent auction offerings kept the black tie clad attendees busy bidding while they sipped cocktails and mingled with friends before the doors were swung open to reveal spectacular décor by Tom Kehoe Designs, the organization’s much loved design expert. Co-chaired by Kimberly Gleeson and Elizabeth Brodsky, the night was themed “With Gratitude” and featured a parade of past gala chairs who were led into the ballroom on the arms of tuxedo clad dancers in top hats. Twenty-five former gala chairs were in attendance beginning with Marguerite Hark, who chaired her gala in 1983. SC President Vonita Reescer welcomed guests and said, “Our board and our event/committee chairs have worked so hard all year long. From God Save My Shoes and the Hat Luncheon to the Day on the Terrace, our educational events and Day at the Races, it has been a year of much accomplishment of which we can all be proud. Tonight’s ball pays tribute to all of the ball chairs throughout our history who have made a difference and whose contributions enable The Service Club to continue its important work. All of these ladies, starting with the Palmers and the Armours, all the way to Brodsky and Gleeson, have made their mark and have made us strong.” Elizabeth and Kimberly thanked Jamie Breslin and her staff at the Four Seasons and “Mr. Music”, Stanley Paul, who entertained with his formidable orchestra. (Peter Oprisko performed for the after-party.) The live auction, conducted during dinner by David Goodman, including a trip to San Francisco, courtesy of American Airlines and the Terlato Family Vineyards. PAWS Chicago upped the excitement level when three pets were offered for adoption, one kitten and two Lab/retriever mixes. Chef Charlie Trotter and wife Rochelle (wearing an elegant gown by Atelier Azza) were the lucky winners of one of the puppies as well as Richard Doermer (who bought the pup for his daughter). The night was magical in every way and you could hear the happy sounds of laughter and applause filling the room as paddles were raised to bid in support of the SC. This organization is one of the oldest in Chicago having been founded in 1890. Originally created to serve the needs of the city’s most vulnerable, particularly immigrant women and children, the club hosted bazaars and participated in sewing circles to raise the revenues they needed to support their charitable work. Their good work continues and, last year, they awarded more than $252K to agencies working in a wide variety of fields, including the arts, disability services, early childhood care, education, health and healthcare, HIV/AIDS services and youth development. This night raised more than $400K for The Service Club of Chicago. (To see how you can get involved, please click here…and view more pics here!)

Nearly 200 fashion-forward Chicagoans headed to the hottest new upscale consignment shop in town – Luxury Garage Sale – located right in my Old Town ‘hood at 1658 N. Wells. The 3,300-square-foot boutique presents a refined and impeccably curated collection of discounted couture clothing, accessories, designer handbags and shoes. The fashionable and business savvy duo behind the booming business, founders, Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal, have created a space where designer-loving fans can peruse and purchase the company’s highly coveted inventory that will change daily, as well as drop-off couture they’re ready to surrender from their own closets. At the event, guests toasted the gorgeous new store with Moet champagne and Coco Mori desserts, whose custom cake pops were adorned with LGS, Chanel and Louis Vuitton logos. A supporter of the event, Moet’s own Peggy Lanigan, presented Segal and Buchberg with a magnum bottle of Moet custom designed with Luxury Garage Sale. (Awwwwww!) Radiant Buchberg (pregnant with twins due in early 2013 and wearing a breathtaking vintage necklace) and Segal (looking chic in Prada and Miu Miu) greeted friends and consigners and thanked everyone for their support to help open the new store. The fabulous fete also brought out some well-known Chicago faces including Ashley Hooks (Miss Illinois USA 2012), Graham Kostic (GlossedandFound.com), Chicago Bears head coach’s wife MaryAnne Smith (with daughter-in-law Kristin Smith), Amy Tara Koch, Steve and Lucy Weiss (Zacuto Manufacturing) and Lesley Prizant Goodman among many others. Luxury Garage Sale provides a unique service and format for buying and selling new, gently-used and vintage clothing, shoes, accessories and collectibles. Their new boutique will feature a daily carefully curated collection of their favorite ‘finds’ such as Chanel handbags and vintage Balenciaga, as well as overstock from some of the top boutiques nationwide. Store hours will be Monday – Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more info, visit luxurygaragesale.com. I’ll see YOU there, I hope!

The Chicago Defender’s Newsmakers Gala was held at the Hyatt Regency on November 3rd. This prestigious award ceremony highlights people doing great things in the community. Honorees in different industries who have influenced lives near and far are Steve Harvey (Multi-Media), Val Warner (journalist and television host, “Windy City Live”), Larry Huggins (acting Chairman, METRA), Jean-Claude Brizard (former CEO, Chicago Public Schools), Karen Lewis (president, Chicago Teachers Union), Karen Freeman-Wilson (Mayor of Gary, Indiana) and Tio Hardiman (director of CeaseFire Illinois). For 107 years, the Chicago Defender has been a powerful force in unifying African American and African communities across the globe. They have initiated and supported some of the biggest movements in the United States including the Great Northern Migration in the early 1900’s to the Civil Rights Movement in the '50s and '60s to the 2012 election. Pastor Corey Brooks of New Beginnings Church (aka the Rooftop Pastor) received the Newsmaker of the Year Award for his commitment to camping out on the roof of the downtrodden motel which he intends to replace with a community center for 90 days. Retired (sadly!) Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her journalistic contributions. Renowned jazz vocalist Maggie Brown performed. Congrats to ALL of these deserving honorees!

“Does anyone care, is anyone even listening?” asks 12-year-old Daniel Toussaint, a student at The School of Choice (L'Ecole de Choix), a first-of-its kind trilingual school in Mirebalais, Haiti, that provides a high-quality elementary education with a focus on leadership development for 183 children ages 4 to 12. Listening intently is one Chicago woman and a growing group of supporters who are committed to providing Daniel and his classmates with a unique gift in rural Haiti: choice. “Without choice, whether it’s about what we eat or what career we enter, we are deprived of our dignity,” says Laura Pincus Hartman (Vincent de Paul professor of business ethics at DePaul University) who is co-founder and board chair of the school. “For the hundreds of thousands who live in extreme poverty in Haiti’s Central Plateau, hope is a rare commodity, and choices are even scarcer.” Haitian Olympian triple jumper Samyr Laine will join Laura on one of her frequent visits to Choix in Haiti this fall to continue his commitment “to inspire his people and showcase my country's dignity.” To mark the success of its first academic anniversary and raise funds to meet annual operating costs, Laine joined Hartman at the “Virtual Visit To Choix” benefit on October 20th at The Francis W. Parker School that attracted more than 300 guests. Emceed by renowned Chicago comedian, commentator and actor Aaron Freeman, guests experienced Choix first-hand through videos, student profiles, interactive arts and crafts projects. Honorary chairs for the benefit included Lesly Condé (Consul Géneral, Consulate General of Haiti), Fr. Dennis Holtschneider (President, DePaul University), Andrew Mason (CEO, Groupon), Katrina Markoff (CEO, Vosges Chocolates), Senator Kwame Raoul (13th Dist., IL), Hon. Lionel Jean-Baptiste (Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County, IL), Chris Kennedy (Chair, Board of Trustees, Univ. of Illinois, Past President, Merchandise Mart), David Brown (Chairman, Much Shelist, P.C.), Suzanne Muchin (Founder, ROI Ventures) and Laura Pincus Hartman (Board Chair, L’Ecole de Choix, Vincent de Paul professor, DePaul University). “We want to instill in this next generation a pride and esteem for their culture, both current and historical,” says Hartman. “As the first and only Black republic to have overcome slavery, and remain a free people to this day, Haiti offers its children – as well as the rest of us – an extraordinary model of liberty.”
The Fifth Annual Global Health Initiative Benefit Dinner was held at The Peninsula on October 3rd. The evening was hosted by beloved Bill Kurtis and featured the president of Chicago Lake Shore Medical Associates, Dr. Robert Havey, as well as Northwestern Feinberg medical student Joe Brown, who is currently on a GHI-funded rotation in Peru. More than 200 guests came out to support the GHI mission with the event raising more than $480K for global health education, providing access to healthcare in low resource areas worldwide and encouraging compassionate primary care medicine. For more info, visit clsma.com/ghi.

Don’t miss WORLD OF CHOCOLATE's one-of-a-kind annual party in commemoration of World’s AIDS Day. It will take place for the 11th year on Thursday, November 29th from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hilton Chicago at 720 S. Michigan! If you love chocolate, then you will LOVE this event benefitting the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Dozens of Chicago’s finest chocolatiers, restaurants and caterers will be offering up their most creative and tasty selections for a night that will also include a light buffet, specialty cocktails, a raffle with lavish prizes, music and so much more! Tickets start at $125. For info, please visit www.aidschicago.org/chocolate.

The Chicago theater community will present a wide variety of festive plays and musicals, as well as dance and concert offerings this Holiday season. The League of Chicago Theatres has created a list of offerings with an updated list of holiday shows that will be available throughout the season at www.chicagoplays.com. Click HERE for a selection of holiday-themed work playing in Chicago, thus far, this season! Ho! Ho! Ho!

Twenty-five thousand visitors will head to Navy Pier this weekend (November 17th and 18th) for the Chicago Toy & Game Fair to shop and play with thousands of toys and games on display from over 250 exhibitors! The 10th anniversary of the fair – the largest public toy and game show in the country – will feature the holiday season’s newest offerings. Founder/CEO Mary Couzin says, “It will be like a giant interactive and bottomless toy box!” Count me IN!!!! For more info, visit www.ChiTag.com!

The Caroling Party will celebrate its 26th anniversary with a special performance in the Signature Room of the John Hancock with all 60 of their fabulous performers on Monday, December 3rd. Anyone dining in the 95th will get to see the show for FREE so make your reservations now for their 45-minute performance which will follow a visit to the Rehabilitation Institute where they will bring the sounds of the season to its patients. Congrats to Paul Iams and this wonderful group who brings joy to so many!

Congrats to beloved TV anchor/author Walter Jacobson on the launch of his recent book, "Walter's Perspective: A Memoir of Fifty Years in Chicago TV News." A group of friends celebrated his book launch at Gibson’s: Bill Kurtis, Bob Sirott, Jay Levine, Mary Ann Childers, Joe Ahern, Terry Savage, Victor Skrebneski, Billy Marovitz, Mancow, Roe Conn, Ryan Baker, Steve Baskerville, Marty Wilke, Joanie Bayhack, Rob Feder, Father Michael Pfleger, Paula and Peter Fasseas, Dominic DiFrisco, Sherren Leigh, Richard Babcock and Vonita Reescer all turned out to celebrate! Congrats Walter! To buy his wonderful book, please click here! (Photos by Steve Starr.)

As many of you know, our town has lost one of its most colorful and beloved characters. Celebrity photographer Steve Starr passed away suddenly on November 12th, a month to the day before an event that he had been planning for over a year, “The Face of the News”. The event has now turned into a celebration and tribute to this beloved man’s life. I never heard him say an unkind word, he always had a smile on his face and encouraged everyone around him to have one on theirs. No one cared more than he did if you looked good in your photo. He stayed up through the wee hours sending out individual pics from the evening to those people whose photos he’d taken. He taught us how to pose, he taught us how to live. He was a shining example of how to make the most out of life, live every moment, enjoy every party and cherish your friends. God is smiling bigger and leaning forward, just a little bit. We will miss you, Steve – our town will never be the same without you. Please join me in a celebration of Steve on 12/12/12. Besides ticket sales, donations are gladly accepted.

That’s the news for this week; I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it! Chicago is such an inspiring town..

Love you all,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

STELLA FOSTER HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM CHICAGO JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

…PLUS JOFFREY DANCERS' PARTY FROM EMBARC, CHICAGO GOURMET'S GRAND AFFAIR, HECTOR MONARREZ FASHION SHOW, WATCH312.COM'S LAUNCH PARTY PLANS, ANTI-CRUELTY'S FUN FUNDRAISER, MARIANO'S FRESH MARKET ROCKS AND SO MUCH MORE!

The room was packed with more than 400 adoring fans and friends as the Chicago Journalists Association hosted its largest awards dinner yet for its 72nd annual event. No wonder!!! The Lifetime Achievement Award winner was none other than Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster! Even Governor Quinn had a hard time reaching the recipient to congratulate her since the crowd was packed wall to wall outside the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza. He said, “She has a lifetime ethic of service and when people want to get the word out, they know where to go! She’s got a BIG heart!” The CJA annually recognizes journalistic excellence and this year they honored many more deserving recipients. The evening began with Jimmy Damon singing the National Anthem followed by the invocation from Monsignor Kenneth Velo. He thanked “all of the journalists because they capture life in a day.” Emcees Karen Jordan and Christian Farr kept the night moving along as the award winners were announced. The CJA Dale Messick/Brenda Starr Award went to Tribune columnist Mary Schmich who shared the honor with artist June Brigman. The Chicago Journalist of the Year Award was presented to the Tribune’s arts and jazz critic, Howard Reich, who attended with his wife, Pam Becker, an editor at the Tribune. The award for Best Online Journalism went to Roger Ebert, with adoring wife Chaz accepting, for his popular blog. Sister 2 Sister Magazine founder Jamie Foster Brown – and Stella’s real life sister! – introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Estella Mae Foster. She spoke of Stella’s 34-year relationship with the legendary columnist, Irv Kupcinet, as his secretar
y and confidant. She said, “She’s irreverent and sassy and oh boy, is she opinionated. I love how people love my sister. From this sister to my sister, this is YOUR night!” After this, the crowd exploded, leaping to their feet to honor this beloved Chicago treasure. She said, “This has been such an outpouring of love…I love my family at the Sun-Times.” She started to name friends in the audience but realized the task would be too great. So she continued, “Kup, that was quite a person. What I loved about Kup, he loved writing. We were doing six columns a week except for Saturday and I loved every moment of it with him.” (Stella’s popular column – “Stella’s Column” – can be found every Tuesday and Thursday in the Sun-Times.) Stella’s award was followed by the Daniel Pearl Award which was given to CBS News’ chief foreign affairs correspondent, Lara Logan. Logan and her CBS crew were arrested and detained for a night by the Egyptian Army on Feb. 3, while covering the revolution there. She said the crew was blindfolded and handcuffed at gunpoint, and their driver beaten. They were advised to leave the country, but were later released. Since 2002, she had spent the next four years reporting from war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq for CBS News. Other Sarah Brown Boyden Award winners included Sun-Times’ John J. Kim (Photography), Sun-Times’ Francine Knowles, Kim Janssen and Sandra Guy (Business), WBEZ-FM’s Robert Wildeboer (Features), Tribune’s Dan Pompei (Sports), Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol, John J. Kim (Public Service), Tribune’s Joel Hood, Annie Sweeney and Stacy St. Clair (Spot News), Tribune’s Patricia Callahan and Trine Tsouderos (Science), Tribune’s Sam Roe and Jared Hopkins (Health), Sun-Times’ editorial page staff (Editorial Coverage), Tribune’s Michael Hawthorne (Investigative), AP’s Sharon Cohen (Best Series) and Best of the Best honors went to Sun-Times’ Frank Main, Mark Konkol and John J. Kim for their public service entry, “The No-Snitch Code.” It was an evening filled with familiar faces including Jimmy Rittenberg, Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Alan Kaye, Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Israel Idonije, Juanita Jordan, Grant DePorter with daughter Margot, Hermene Hartman, Linda Yu, Joe Ahern, Linda Johnson Rice, Larry Wert, Otis Wilson, Hosea Sanders, John Colletti, Rich Varnes, Leah Hope, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Lisa Lenoir, Cheryl Burton, Mary Ann Childers and Jay Levine, Robert Jordan, Allison Payne, Christina and Lou Vasta, Tony Preckwinkle, Tim Evans, Chaz Ebert, Marion Brooks, LeeAnn Trotter, Father Ken Velo, Karen Jordan, Christian Farr, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, Robin Robinson, Dutchie Caray, George Daniels, Kathleen Henson, Diana Palomar Scott, Morene Dunn, Barry Axler, Courtney Nzeribe, Jamey and Melissa Sage Fadim, Tony Abruscato, Johnny Snickers, Margot DePorter, Cherie and Ernest Baker, Chris Ruys, Pam Becker, Tai Duncan, Devin Blackburn and Shell Reyes among many, many others. Congrats to all of the deserving honorees! What a great night for Chicago!

The 4th annual Chicago Gourmet was, yet again, a smashing success! Presented by title sponsor Bon Appétit in conjunction with the Illinois Restaurant Association and presenting sponsor Southern Wine & Spirits, this year’s event took place from September 23rd through 25th in Millennium Park and brought out a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees. The Kick-Off party, the popular Hamburger Hop, was held atop the Harris Theatre Rooftop and was the ultimate burger showdown with more than 17 determined competitors preparing their top burger dishes. Two chefs emerged victorious: Bandera Executive Chef Colleen McHugh received the judge-selected Allen Brothers Award presented by Todd Hatoff, president of sponsor Allen Brothers Steaks, and Executive Chef Steven Lawhorn of Palmer Place took home the People’s Choice Award for his “Benchmark Burger.” Other exciting activities surrounding Chicago Gourmet included cooking demos, book signings, food and wine seminars, Grand Cru Tastings, numerous gourmet tasting pavilions, and much more. Hundreds of renowned chefs participated including Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard, Tony Mantuano, Mary Sue Milliken, Jonathan Waxman and Ted Allen. Winemakers, premium spirit producers and brewmasters from around the world were also on hand to interact with the attendees. The event raised big money for the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), whose mission is to build the Illinois hospitality workforce through career exploration, workforce development and scholarships. Congrats to IRA’s Sheila O’Grady and her dedicated staff and supporters for another great year of Chicago Gourment!!! (Photos courtesy of David Ditzler and Jeff Schear.)

The Joffrey Ballet dancers are not only incredible artists but they are also dedicated fundraisers for worthy causes! EMBARC is a non-profit organization that provides unique cultural experiences and interactions to high school students from Chicago’s most socially and economically isolated neighborhoods. And in support of this worthy cause, the Joffrey Dancers have created a special event called “A New Movement.” This intimate evening will feature the dancers in their home, The Joffrey Tower (located at Randolph and State), where they will share their art for the cause, presenting six world premieres that the dancers have choreographed on their own time. The evening will also include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of J & L Catering, plus a silent auction with décor donated by Kehoe Designs. I hope you can join me and see these groundbreaking new pieces being performed in support of EMBARC. For tickets and more info, please click here. (One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to EMBARC’s programming!)

The Anti-Cruelty Society will be hosting its 11th annual It’s Raining Cats and Dogs Benefit on Friday, October 21st, from 7 – 11 PM at the Palmer House Hilton. This event, their second largest annual fundraiser, is sponsored by Chopper Trading, Hill’s Science Diet, RCN Cable and CS Magazine and will be emceed by NBC 5’s Andy Avalos. There will be more than 15 chef tastings, complimentary bars, live entertainment from The Ron Harris Music Group, a Panache Boutique fashion show, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, $5000 cash raffle, and of course, adorable adoptable cats and dogs serving as the host committee! Individual tickets are $175 in advance or $200 at the door. For more info and tickets, please call 312-645-8006 or visit www.itsrainingcatsanddogs.org.

Well, I guess there could be a cuter designer than Hector-Javier MonArrez but I don’t know who it would be! His beautiful Front Row 2012 Runway Show was held recently in the legendary Union League Club’s Crystal Room in front of a packed, appreciative audience. The evening began with a VIP champagne reception and then moved into the Crystal Room for the main event. Expertly produced by soon-to-be-wed Kimberly Palmisano (her soon-to-be-proud-hubby is hunky Wulf Kaal), the show featured glamorous Factor Models styled by Joseph Michael’s Salon. The show was hosted by NBC’s Zoraida Sambolin with music provided by DJ Konsept. And it wouldn’t be a party without seeing the Queen of Illustrations, Rosemary Fanti, who was there making everyone look much better than they really are! I loved Hector’s sassy designs and especially his copper colored leather- and fur-trimmed suit. His attention to detail is flawless and this collection highlighted his masterful skills. Congrats Hector! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…view ALL pics HERE!)

Mariano’s Fresh Market is hands-down my favorite grocery store in town! And not only because it generously donated $10,000 to Common Threads recently, but this event did give me the opportunity to see this brand new store for myself for the first time. I will tell you I’ve never seen so much beautiful food so lovingly arranged. While we were there accepting the check from owner, Bob Mariano (darling hubby of Nina DiFrisco), the staff burst spontaneously into song spelling out Mariano’s! I’ve never seen anything like it! The store brochure reads “We provide world-class neighborhood shopping at compelling prices. We are a full-service, complete destination grocery store that caters to family shoppers and foodies alike.” I am totally hooked. Congrats to Bob Mariano on this wonderful new concept that makes grocery shopping such an exciting experience! And thanks also to Bob and Roundy’s Supermarkets for their wonderful policy of always giving back to the communities they’re involved with. Check out Mariano’s for yourselves at 333 E. Benton Place. Welcome to Lakeshore East and thanks for the support on behalf of the kiddies of Common Threads!

Mark your calendars and save the date for Watch312.com’s Launch Party set for Wednesday, November 30th at the Joffrey Tower! See for yourselves the new shows being debuted and meet DC Crenshaw from “Chicago Unplugged” and Dr. Sandy Goldberg and co-host Scott Mackay from “LIVE! With Dr. Sandy.” Lots of surprises in store, too! In the meantime, check out my latest videos from the Green Tie Ball and the Chicago Beach Polo Matches…more fun than the law allows! 🙂

I still haven’t made it to that pumpkin patch, sadly. I am still hopeful the weather will hold so until I get there, here’s a video to remind us all that “The Time is Now!”

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Check out this great pic of Chef Art Smith’s latest restaurant, Southern Art & Bourbon Bar, at 3315 Peachtree Road in Atlanta! Rhonda Sanderson reports it was some of the best fried chicken she’s ever had…so now we know!