Tag Archives: Mayor Rahm Emanuel

DESIGNER BORRIS POWELL WOWS THE CHICAGO FASHION CROWD!

…PLUS BEAR NECESSITIES GALA, CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION’S “STREET STYLE,” TCW MAG’S SINGLES SOIREE, UPCOMING EVENTS, PALMER HOUSE COUP, THREE NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND MORE!

Blog 1 - The one and only Borris PowellThe Without a Shadow of a Doubt Fashion Show presented by local designer Borris Powell set a very high standard for Chicago fashion shows recently at the River East Art Center. Opening with chic fashions from Blog 2 - PR Queen Daphne Ortiz (R) and cute friendsLincoln Park's newest boutique, STRUT, owner Niala Conte sent models down the runway in wearable and accessible outfits that made you want to rush to her store at 2549 N. Clark St. And indeed, guests could shop in her pop-up store after the show with a 20-percent discount thrown in for good measure. Being the ultimate showman, you never know Blog 3 - The Bears' Rashied Daviswhat to expect from Mr. Borris Powell but when the red Ferrari powerfully hummed into the middle of the event Blog 4 - Joking with co-host Marcus Rileydriven by two gorgeous models, both wearing red, the crowd just lost it! It sat there front and center throughout Borris' faultless fashion show. For the first time, Borris presented his menswear line to wild applause. Special guest Rashied Davis of the Chicago Bears was wearing the very first men's suit that Borris had created as he told the crowd about his wonderful foundation that he and his wife Dianna founded, The Rashied Davis Charities, which teaches Blog 5 - Shea Vaughn and beautiful friendstudents how to overcome obstacles. And then the show! I was thrilled and honored to co-host with NBC's Marcus Riley, who made quite a fashion statement himself: He was wearing all local designers and his girlfriend, Nicole Townsend, was beaming with Sally and Kerry Shorr with Monika Dixonpride. Factor models glided down the runway in fashions that made me swoon. Borris' latest handbag, which was premiered on this night, can be used by both sexes and is the perfect shade of chocolate that will match every outfit for fall. His use of pops of color with more classic looks was the perfect mix for now. I loved the full length leather gown and his extra-wide belts, which were shown with lots of the ensembles. This new wide shape was modern and new and I want one in every Blog 7 - Hot STRUT lookcolor! The makeup (by Brenda Blog 8 - STRUT’s Niala Conte with her finale dressArelano, among others) was simple and clean with a bright red mouth. Hair by Nevena Zee from the Custom Hair Lounge & Spa also echoed the makeup with classic shapes and men's looks inspired by Italian Vogue – slicked back and sleek. The menswear collection had something for every type of
male from the buttoned-up businessman to the guy channeling his inner Marc Jacobs. Quenten Schumacher already has his eye on the copper colored statement suit…so heads-up Blog 9 - Great menswear look by Borrishere, Borris! And when the man himself came out for his final bows with that winning smile that we all love, the crowd was sitting in the palm of his hand. As he danced along behind the Blog 10 - Charron (wearing Borris) with cute friendsFerrari as it hummed out of the ballroom, we knew we had all just witnessed fashion magic! Long may you reign, Borris!!! (To see ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins and Mitchell Canoff, please click here and check out my Watch312.com coverage below!)

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Blog 1 - Co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto with husbands Bob and RussBear hugs were in abundance at the Bear Necessities 19th annual Bear Tie Ball’s Rhythms for a Reason event on Saturday, March 10th. Every Blog 2 - Kathleen Casey and Bear Hug Ambassador Lawson Frankyear, this event gets bigger and bigger and this year, it had to be moved to the grand UIC Forum to accommodate the 750 guests in attendance. Co-chaired by Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto, this party was filled with love for Bear Blog 3 - Monika and Dr. Geoffrey DixonNecessities and its inspiration, Barrett “Bear” Krupa. Bear lost his battle with cancer in 1993 but his spirit lives on through this amazing organization that Blog 4 - Courtney Krupa, Tony Esposito and founder Kathleen Caseybears his name. This year’s Bear Hug Ambassador, Lawson Frank, spoke to a rapt audience of his journey with cancer. In 2009, he was diagnosed with a rare form which was highly Blog 5 - Vonita Reescer and friendsaggressive and malignant in his left eye. Lawson finished his last cancer treatment in 2011 and is in remission. Bear Necessities came through with a celebratory Bear Hug, sending Lawson Blog 6 - Greg Kosinski and Kathleen Caseyand his family to the Chicago Blackhawks’ Hockey Fights Cancer Night. Lawson did the ceremonial puck drop that evening and even got to shoot on net! Today, he is Blog 7 - Cheri Lawrence and Diana Palomaran honor roll student and soccer player who hopes to one day become a surgeon. This special night was hosted by WLS radio host Roe Conn and Valerie Warner of “Windy City Blog 8 - Bob Clifford and emcee Valerie Warner Live.” They each donated a special live auction package for the event…with Valerie teasing Roe that her package sold for more money! They were very cute onstage together and made a perfect hosting team. Blog 9 - Dr. Jeff Weller with Tina and Scott GordonFounder Kathleen Casey gave a moving speech and said, “If Bear were here today, I would smile at the man he became and thank him for the inspiration.” She noted that the organization Blog 1
0 - Co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto welcome the crowdis the largest pediatric cancer foundation of its kind in the Midwest and also shared that less than 4 percent of federal money has gone towards childhood cancer. The William J. Casey Hope Award, which was created in honor of Blog 11 - Bear Hug recipientsKathleen’s dad and Bear’s devoted grandpa, was awarded to the Urso family and the Chicago Blackhawks. Legendary goalie Tony Esposito accepted the award on their behalf saying, “They’re a giving organization led Blog 12 - UIC Forum decorated for a party!by GIVING people.” Val Warner remarked that she could see Tony’s huge Stanley Cup ring from the stage. (He is a charming man who was dressed impeccably right down to his cufflinks, which were created in the shape of his goalie mask.) Father Paul White, who gave the invocation, remarked, “Tony has made more saves Blog 13 - Peter and Christopher Morinthan I ever will.” His humor was priceless and made me want to travel to Harvard, Illinois to hear his inspiring sermons! The sit-down gala dinner included grilled Blog 14 - Disa DiBuono, John Simpson, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Joseph DiBuonoshrimp, goat cheese salad, green beans, roasted garlic potatoes. Dessert and dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra followed. A private after-party was held at Potter’s Lounge at the Palmer House. The event raised more than $700K for Bear Necessities. For more info about this amazing organization, please visit www.bearnecessities.org. (Event photos by Mila Samokhina…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Grand Prize winner Elena BobyshevaThe Chicago Fashion Foundation’s 5th annual Future of Chicago Fashion scholarship award benefit was themed “Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities” and was held at the Chicago Cultural Blog 2 - 2nd place winner Michele CastellanoCenter on March 7th. Ten student designers competed for scholarships in the amount of $5,000, $1,000 and $500. This chic affair included a cocktail reception in Preston Bradley Hall, an extensive silent auction and more than 350 chicly-clad guests. Judging began backstage before the show with Macy's Andrea Schwartz, Project Runway's Peach Carr (who presented her delightful spring collection), Akira's Jon Cotay, 24/7 Chicago's Catie Keogh and moi doing our best to Blog 3 - 3rd place winner Raven Normandecide who the top scholarship winners should be. The students were instructed to find their inspiration from the street style of Chicago's neighborhoods that included Ukrainian Village, Rogers Park, Chinatown, Beverly, Maxwell Street, Hyde Park and Logan Square. VH1 reality star Corri McFadden was the emcee for the event and Elena Blog 4 - Designer LaTonya Williams with new CFF Prez Amanda DomalecznyBobysheva, a student at Columbia College, walked away with the first place prize of a $5,000 scholarship. Her winning ensemble featured a black stretch crepe jacket with an open back and a blue-violet pegged skirt, which were inspired by the architecture and cathedrals of Ukrainian Village. Second place winner Michele Castellano from the School of the Art Institute won a $1,000 scholarship with a romantic look inspired by the Columbian Exposition and the rich history of Hyde Park. The design Blog 5 - Emcee Corri McFaddenfeatured a laser-cut top and a skirt lined with photographs of the dome Blog 6 - Agnes Lulu Mae with judges Peach Carr, moi, Jon Cotay, Andrea Schwartz and Catie Keoghfrom the Fine Arts Building of the Exposition which required 200 hours to create. Raven Norman from the Illinois Institute of Art won third place and a $500 scholarship with a green silk dress and tinted orange jacket inspired by the Beverly neighborhood. To Raven, the outfit evoked the sophistication, class and old world style of the community. Other participating Blog 7 - Tosha Sherman designstudent/designers included Elizabeth Leukuma, Kara Fenoglietto, Elaine Hoang, Tosha Sherman, Kendel Kennedy, Stacie Randall and Crystale Crubaugh. To see video coverage of this fabulous event on Watch312.com's Blog 8 - Winners with outgoing CFF VP Sandra Enimil and Prez Kristen Amato"Candid Candace Chicago," please see below. Congrats to one and all – Chicago's fashion future is in very good hands indeed! (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)


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TCW Singles Party sceneToday’s Chicago Woman magazine presented its annual top singles party recently at Enclave. This fun-filled event, emceed by WGN’s “Healthy Living” host Jane Monzures, honored 40 of the city’s leading bachelors and bachelorettes. Top Chicago restaurants served a Page_1_thumb_largesampling of singles-themed food and included Wow Bao’s Asian cuisine, N9NE Steakhouse’s contemporary fare and Frontier’s farm-to-table American concepts. Late night snacks and desserts were provided by Foiled Cupcakes, Garrett’s Popcorn and Eduardo’s Enoteca. DJ Corey Sanford kept the crowd dancing all to benefit the TCW Foundation, which supports under-funded organizations designed to provide essential programs and services for women and girls. Congrats to Sherren Leigh, Cassandra Gaddo and Rebecca Michuda on another great party! To see all of the fun, check out this video from Watch312.com’s “Candid Candace Chicago!”


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And now for some event updates!

Hats at the Races--CorsetiHats at the Races Spring 2012: Hosted by Loreta Corsetti and guest milliner Laura Whitlock, this event at Loreta Corsetti’s Millinery Atelier (200 E. Delaware Place – Lower Level) will feature an array of the latest hats designed especially for racing events, seasonal luncheons and everyday chic! Saturday and Sunday, March 24 & 25th from noon to 5 p.m. (Please RSVP via loreta@loretacorsetti.com or by calling 312.640.6004.)

LunaNegra_Picasso+TitleLuna Negra’s “CARMEN maquia”: Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano’s Picasso-inspired contemporary take on Bizet’s beloved “Carmen.” This world premiere on March 24th begins at 8 p.m. at the Harris Theater (205 E. Randolph). Tickets are $25-$65; for more information, visit www.lunanegra.org or call 312.334.777.

Art for AllArt for All Gala: Mayor Rahm Emanuel is honorary chair of this year’s Art for All Gala on Friday, March 30th beginning at 7 p.m. at Venue One (1044 W. Randolph). Tickets begin at $250 and include an art-filled evening of cocktails and dinner plus live entertainment and incredible auction prizes! For tickets and more info, please visit www.urbangateways.org or call 312.445.2749.

426929_3230384630925_1005898073_32991713_709356844_nCocktails 4 Causes at the Drake Hotel: This April 4th event will benefit the Chicago Red Dress Party from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Palm Court. Attendees will experience a Neiman Marcus fashion showcase, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and entertainment by the Lisa Rene Band – all for only $5 admission! For reservations (they're required), please click here.

Red or white ballSteppenwolf’s Red or White Ball: Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council hosts Chicago’s philanthropic young professionals at the 2012 Red or White Ball on Friday, April 13th at Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood) beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $135; for more info, please visit www.steppenwolf.org.

Mad hatterThe Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon: Chair Sherry Lea Holson will host a luncheon and cocktail reception to view the milliner Raymond Hudd Collection at The Chicago Club (81 E. Van Buren) on Thursday, May 10th. For tickets and more info, please email tina@wellerdental.com.

Charley Jordan as Squire WesternNow please allow me a moment of pride for my stepson’s recent play, “Tom Jones,” adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer. Charley Jordan will be appearing as Squire Western in this play Tom Jones photobased on Henry Fielding’s 18th century novel. Gala premiere night will be on Friday, March 23rd with the play beginning at 8 p.m. followed by food, open bar and celebration. Running from March 20th to April 29th, "Tom Jones" will be performed at the Josephinum Academy, located at 1500 N. Bell St. in Wicker Park. For tickets and more info, please click here.

Palmer House’s David Brandt with the President at last year’s eventAnd last but not least, big congratulations to the Palmer House Hilton on their amazing coup hosting President Obama’s recent press luncheon. The event included a panel discussion about working in the White House with Mayor Emanuel, Bill Daley and David Axelrod. Darling Director of Catering David Brandt said “It was very interesting and fun to listen to them speak and joke with one another.”

Well, that’s the lowdown on this week’s highlights! I hope you’re enjoying our beautiful weather and I hope to see you next week!

Nicole and Dempsey photoLove,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Dempsey Sullivan Delehanty photoP.S. Anyone who knows Nicole Jacob Delahanty, the fantastic makeup artist and brow expert at the Paul Rehder Salon at 939 N. Rush St., will be thrilled to see this pic of her new baby, Dempsey Sullivan Delahanty! Welcome to the world, Dempsey!!! Love you, Nicole!

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

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!
 
Blog 1 - Marion, Tony and Michelle DurpettiThere 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 Blog 2 - Dominic DiFrisco and Darcy DiBuonoevening 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. Blog 3 - Richard Ciato and his darling wifeThe evening, produced expertly by Michelle Durpetti (Michelle Durpetti Events), started off with an hour-long film by Loudbyte Cinematography that included regulars, Chicago Blog 4 - Bill Brennan and Jim Verrarosnotables and family on camera discussing the restaurant’s history and never-before-heard stories. Opening the film was longtime regular Terry “Whitey” Pearson and Blog 5 - Bonnie Schultz (R) and friendCharles 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 Blog 6 - Tony and Phil StefaniWright, 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) Blog 7 - A cute ZZazz Production numberand 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 Blog 8 - Taso Maroulis and Erinhad 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 Blog 9 - Phil Hanahan and ladyfriendalso 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 Blog 10 - Party sceneSunday 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 – Blog 11 - Elvis has NOT left the building!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 Blog 12 - On the Red Carpet with the Durpettisat 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- Blog 13 - Chuck, Tracy, Jamie and friendcreated 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 Blog 14 - Dave and Roberta Sheehanminiature 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 Blog 15 - Chuck, Tracy Tarantino and Whitey PearsonZZazz 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. Blog 16 - Marion and Tony DurpettiThere were beautiful floral arrangements by Exquisite Designs as well as a red carpet for photo ops. It was such a memorable evening Blog 17 - Supportive G & G friendsfor 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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Blog 1 - Leslie Hindman and Ken NorganIt 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 Blog 2 - Oleg Vasliev, Aleksandra Efimova, Itina Ivanove, Robert Johnsonguests. 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 Blog 3 - Dr. Linda O’Bannon and friendMezzanine. Guests enjoyed Moscow Mule cocktails, champagne and other refreshments while they bid electronically on the extensive silent auction Blog 4 - Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kernitems expertly coordinated by auction chairman Julie Anne Benson. Before a seated dinner by Limelight Catering, top Chicago restaurants provided gourmet tastings. (Participating restaurants Blog 5 - Dustin Berta and Jenny Bergincluded 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 Blog 6 - Cynthia and Rich VarnesJose “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 Blog 7 - Helen Melchior, Ken, George Jewell, Karen Harding, Heinz KernDaughter on the Stage, Mrs. Worthington” and David Blog 8Cangelosi, 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 Blog 9 - Jose “Pepe” Conforme, Sanjay Sharma, Ken (R) and friendevent, Nancy Temple, along with her co-chair Courtney Rosen, welcomed the crowd and Linda Pedian Blog 10 - Lyric Manager of Media Relations, Magda Krance(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 Blog 11 - Sun-Times Elizabeth Hamel and Kurt Guzowskichaired 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 Blog 12gala guests. This event was another important step to strengthen understanding, communication and interest between the U.S. and Russia—something I strongly and Blog 13passionately believe in.” Other evening sponsors included Guild Board President David Ormesher (whose company, Closerlook, was the presenting sponsor), Donna Blog 14 - Box 28 & 30 FriendsVan 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 Blog 14recent HGTV "Design Star" winner) as well as Illinois State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. The evening ended on a sweet note with Blommer Chocolate, Blog 15e.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.

 Blog 1 - Chris Olsen, Melissa Thodos and Ann ReinkingThe 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 Blog 2 - Thodos Youth EnsembleReinking 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 Blog 3 - Liz and Jeff Sharp, Annabelle Volgman and Art Margulisevening’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 Blog 4 - Thodos dancers Cara Carper, Annie Deutz and Danielle Scanloncurrent 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 Blog 5 - Margaret Murphy, Cheri Lawrence and Marcia Sisneyincluded 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 Blog 6 - Kaye Rahn, Don Hunter and Melissa Thodosand 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!)
 
CT Small Threads (Pic by Caitlin Saville Collins)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 CommonThreadsLogoinclude 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.
 
Dr. Sandy Goldberg.jpgThe 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 Darius Brooks.jpgeducate 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. 
 
HalRubensteinHal 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 HalRubenstein13.jpgconversation 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.

Senate President Cullerton, Mayor Emanuel, Jerry Roper and Speaker Michael MadiganCongrats 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 Jerry Roper and his extended family$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 James O'Connor and Donovan Pepperaffiliate 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 John Fritcheyand 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!

Nina and Bob MarianoHuge 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!

CS Magazine 2-12And 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! 

Madonna.jpgWell, 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

1-19-12 Beth Aldrich and Jenniffer Weigel (13)368 fbP.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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MICHIGAN AVENUE MAGAZINE SCORES ROSIE COUP!

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

Blog 1 - Susanna Negovan, Dan Uslan and Rosie O'DonnellMichigan Avenue Magazine scored another coup for the publication by featuring Rosie O’Donnell on the December cover along with a feature article cleverly entitled “Rosie the Blog 2 - Amanda Puck and NAMERiveting.” They held a by-invite-only party in the Seven Stars Lounge at Horseshoe Casino. This high roller’s heaven is an elegant room filled with crystal chandeliers, a humidor, extensive bar and friendly Blog 3 - Larry Wert (R) and handsome friendservers. Dubbed “In the Red, Holiday Celebration,” this event attracted A-listers who were transported via private motor coach to this gambler’s oasis in Hammond, Indiana. The Blog 4 - Designers Horacio Nieto and Eldade la Rosamedia info that was provided informed us that a VIP area would be provided for Rosie and her crew and that once she entered this area, no one was to speak with her or film her. Well, I Blog 5was prepared for the worst. You sensed the minute Rosie entered the room since everyone’s iPhones were waving in the air and the lights from the photogs cameras were flashing Blog 6 - Tanya Miller and Cindi Berger (Rosie’spublicist)nonstop. She stopped repeatedly on her way to the Red Carpet to talk to guests and take pictures. When she got to the Carpet, the cameras’ lights were blinding. And not only did she NOT go to her designated area, but she Blog 7 - Designer Anna Fong (center) and friendsworked the Red Carpet longer than any celeb I’ve ever seen. She never left…she talked to each and every person who wanted to speak to her and she even allowed a Blog 8 - Rosie shows Tim Smithe her photo!cameraman to check the label on her sweater after someone complimented her on it. In a word, she was a delight! I love her refreshing candor and in her comments about Chicago, she has stated that she Blog 9 - Julianne Glatz and Paul Iaconoloves Table 52 (Chef Art’s fried chicken is a hit!), Paris Club (where she celebrated her show’s launch), Naha (which she said is the “best meal she’s ever had”) and Gibson’s (where she said to “ask for Mo, he’s the best waiter Blog 10 - With the cute men from Watch312.com!
I’ve ever had.”) The night also included a charity component with guests encouraged to bring a toy to donate to LYDIA Home Association. Mich Mag’s Publisher Dan Uslan and Editor-in-Chief Susanna Blog 11 - Cece Gonzalez and Marcus RileyNegovan welcomed guests and thanked everyone for coming. The Illinois Center for Broadcasting streamed the evening live and I was honored to be the host. Congrats Mich Mag and welcome to Chicago, Rosie!!! (Photos by Mila Samokhina, Cindy Barrymore and Steve Starr…click HERE to see more!) Watch the Michigan Avenue Mag/Rosie party below on Watch312.com! 🙂

watch312 on livestream.com. Broadcast LiveFree

Blog 1 - Entrance to WOCI always love the World of Chocolate event. It is such a celebration of life and love and it benefits the Aids Foundation of Chicago. Everyone from vendors to restaurants to Blog 2 - Jim Smith and Brooke Skinnerhotels compete for bragging rights in multiple categories. This year, 28 of our city’s finest participated in this annual fundraiser that attracted more than 1,500 guests. Judges included ABC 7’s Kathy Brock, Fox Chicago’s Jan Jeffcoat, Chicago Pride’s Bill Blog 3 - Mitch Pennelland Bill PritchardPritchard, Mrs. Illinois International Nicole Khayat, RL’s Rich Varnes, beloved entertainer Miss Lucy Foozie, designer Richard Dayhoff, WGCI’s Loni Swain, entertainer Cyon Flare, NoMI pastry chef Meg Galus and Lookingglass Theatre’s Anthony Fleming, among others. They had a Blog 4 - Greg Hyder, Tom Kehoe (who donated décor)& Wayne Harthtough decision choosing between entries that included Das Food’s salted caramel, Wow Bao’s steamed bao filled with dark chocolate and coconut, Kendall College’s chocolate- and cranberry-infused macaroons and chocolate Christmas trees, Blog 5 - Judge Miss Lucy FoozieTaberna Restaurant’s chocolate filled dates with bacon, the Peninsula’ stropical chocolate paradise complete with safari girls, Illinois Nut and Candy’s “Wizard of Oz”-themed booth and the Palmer House Hilton’s Blog 6 - Cute Guys!chocolate-flavored wine that Chef Stephen Henry was generously pouring. I thought they should ALL win but, sadly, this wasn’t to be. After all of the votes were tallied, the winners were Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts for overall tastiest treat (Hot Chocolate Award), Talbott Teas for the Blog 8 - Judge Cyon Flaremost creative use of chocolate (Loco Cocoa Award), Terry’s Toffee (who debuted this year’s delicious limited edition “Holly Berry Toffee”) for best overall presentation (Sweet Booth Blog 7 - More cute guys!Award) and the Peninsula for most visually enticing dish (Chocoholic’s Dream Award). The People’s Choice Award went to Just Like U Like It Catering. Their mini chocolate grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato and basil soup shooters was a crowd pleaser along with their chocolate mashed potatoes. This year’s honorary chair Mayor Rahm Emanuel came for a short while Blog 9and greeted guests. Event chairs Glen Pietrandoni, Ben Stringfellow and Jim Blog 11Perry also included a Memorial Wall where guests could honor lost loved ones. Held at the Hilton Chicago, this one-of-a-kind event commemorated World AIDS Day and raised more than $300,000 to support AFC and the fight against HIV/AIDS. President/CEO of the AFC David Ernesto Munar Blog 10 - Designer John Ansehl (2nd from R)and friendshad this to say: “We’re so grateful for the supporters and vendors who commemorated World AIDS Day by helping us raise these much-needed funds. As guests walked into the ballroom, they were Blog 12greeted by a gigantic display of the word ‘HOPE,’ which captures exactly how we feel. And as Charles Dickens once said, ‘There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate!” (View extra pics by Steve Starr HERE and to watch my “Candid Candace Chicago” video on Watch312.com, please see below!)

Watch live streaming video fromwatch312 atlivestream.com

James AmblerI get so many emails and information from people with ideas they want to promote and, every once in a while, it’s a really unique concept like the one I recently heard about. “Pap the Question” is the Blog 2brainchild of ex-paparazzo James Ambler, who is secretly conspiring with nervous grooms-to-be and photographing the magic moment when couples get engaged. Ambler says he got the idea for “Pap the Question” shortly after he Blog 3himself got down on one knee. “Following my own proposal, friends asked if we had any pictures from this special day. We didn’t, but that definitely planted the seed.” Having witnessed so many different proposals, Ambler has many tips Blog 5on the subject, including a very common (and easily prevented) mistake most guys make when popping the question: fumbling for the ring. He says have it in an easily accessible place “so you look as smooth as Blog 6Cary Grant for the reveal.” And for the ladies, one thing future fiancées should NEVER do when their prince proposes is to focus all of their attention on the ring! Ambler says he’s seen this happen so often and it’s not pretty. “While Romeo is longing to stare passionately into her eyes, she’s Blog 7only concerned with the hardware. Cold!” Originally from Oxford, England, James has been a professional photographer for 10 years. One of his amusing celeb stories included Angelina Jolie, who once took pity on him after James was racing after her on his bike and crashed. She rolled down her window, told him to put his bike in the trunk and gave him a lift in her limo. I think James is onto something with this unique idea for creating even more exciting wedding memories! And instead of celebs, James will now be chasing down young lovers in the Windy City! (www.PaptheQuestion.com)

Candace_001Vital Bridges’ annual “Celebrate the Spirit” holiday brunch was held recently at the Four Seasons. More than 400 guests attended this fundraiser which netted $158,000 to support nutrition and housing services for low Candace_002income people living with HIV/AIDS. Guests enjoyed a delectable meal, an exciting live and silent auction and a $10K cash raffle. My longtime friend Paul Iacono, who is an ardent supporter of this organization, reports, “Incredibly, since its founding in 1988, Vital Bridges has provided more than 10 million meals, 600,000 nights of shelter and 250,000 hours of counseling to Candace_004over 10,000 clients. This year former board chair Ron Anunziato was honored for his longtime dedication and Candace_005commitment to this all too important cause. Additionally, brunch attendee Emily Angel was the lucky recipient of the $10K cash prize in the annual raffle. Emily is the niece of Bill Holt, one of Vital Bridges’ original founders, who Candace_007succumbed to AIDS in the mid 1990’s. In the true spirit of the organization and its mission, Emily generously donated her entire cash prize back to Vital Bridges.” Live auction packages Candace_011included a Lake Michigan yacht cruise with food and beverages provided by Sepia Restaurant, a trip for eight to Puerto Vallarta, and a trip for two to Hawaii. “The annual brunch is an afternoon of delicious food, delightful entertainment and the company of good friends,” said Vital Bridges’ chief healthcare strategist Deborah Hinde. And thanks so much Paul for this info!!! (Thanks to Cindy Barrymore, for these fab fotos!)

Book51fWw7kfJqL._SL500_AA300_As the holidays fast approach, some of us are thinking about what to buy for that sports nut in our families. And if you’re a Cubs fan, then there could be no greater gift (besides the Cubs winning the World Series) than Jimmy Greenfield’s "100 Things Cubs Fans Should Know and Do Jimmy GreenfieldBefore They Die." Written by this Chicago Now guru, the 300-page book is packed with crucial info such as important dates, player nicknames, memorable moments and outstanding achievements by individual players. There is also a to-do list of Cubs activities which include taking in Wrigley Field, traveling to Arizona for spring training and sipping beers at the best Cubs bars around the country. The publication date is March 1, 2012…but I think you should order now while they're still available! Congrats Jimmy!

Blog 1 - Nina Mariano, Toni Canada, Jan Flanagan and Gayle AnthonyHoliday dinners abound now with friends getting together to celebrate their happy times, reflect on the year behind and think about the year ahead. It’s also a great time to share those Blog 2 - Chantecaille’s Anti-Glycation Primerall-important beauty secrets which is one of the things I did recently with a group of glam friends at the retooled Pump Room. As we encircled a big round table, enjoying champagne and sharing gifts we all spoke of what we Blog 3 - With Kristina McGrath and Lynn McMahanwere grateful for and what our goals were for 2012. This was all very interesting stuff but everyone’s ears seemed to perk up at the discussion of individual beauty secrets so I will share them with you now. Toni Canada’s favorite product is Blog 4Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream (tube) which she says “helps heal chapped, cracked dry skin and has anti-inflammatory benefits – great protection against the harsh Chicago winters.” Gayle Anthony’s must-have product is Chantecaille’s Blog 5 - Makeup artist Claudio RiazAnti-Glycation Primer with SPF50+. “I use it with or without makeup, as it gives great protection!” she said. Kristina McGrath swears by GLO Minerals under eye cream. “It tingles when you put it on and is supposed to WAKE up your eyes!” she raved. (Boy, could I use this!) Lynn McMahan loves the Claudio Riaz makeup palette at Barney’s as well as an iPhone app called Suzanne Somers’ Nap 26 because Blog 6 - GLO Minerals undereye cream“listening to this particular group of sound frequencies for 26 minutes is equal to three hours of sound sleep according to the NASA researchers who invented it.” Jan Flanagan swears by heated eyelash curlers and coconut oil used as a hair conditioner and makeup remover. As for me, I Blog 7 - Che Sguardo’s Kathy Schmalenlove going to Che Sguardo (owned by former model Kathy Schmalen) at 161 W. Illinois because she finds truly unique makeup from around the globe and imports it to Chicago. Models and on-air people love this place! I also PAWS dog Emma Ahlberglove the MAC Mellow Mood shimmer highlighter. It’s great for emphasizing cheekbones and looks terrific in photos. And my choice for the VERY best facial moisturizer (goodbye, La Mer), is my new favorite: L’Oreal’s Golden Balm. The best part is you can find it at Walgreen’s…for cheap! So now ya know! 🙂

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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