Tag Archives: Michigan Avenue Magazine

April 11, 2019 · 10:20 am

“UNDER THE BIG TOP” WITH FACE THE FUTURE FOUNDATION

Plus CHANEL's perfect, private opening party; Costume Council's "Shall We Dance"; Borris' touching #TRAPPED show; "Hope Through Caring" Gala; Alzheimer Association's "Key to the Future"; Ravinia's cover boy; CS/Modern Luxury Datebook launch; Celebrating Paul; Collector's Call debuts; Sabrina's "Adventures of Kameron"; Chicago Fashion Week with FashionBar; UNICEF at the Geraghty; BEST event listings; Darling videos and so much MORE! _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

President Award recipient John Robak, Myrna Farmer, Cynthia Calk, Stephen Cattouse and Bethany Florek

Face the Future Foundation (FFF) held its annual gala at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on March 23. This year’s event, themed "Under the Big Top," attracted 370 people and raised nearly $600,000 (including a generous $50,000 donation from the Chicago Title Bowl-a-thon fundraiser.) Gala proceeds benefit the UI Health Craniofacial Center for the care and treatment of children with cleft lip, cleft palate and other craniofacial conditions, for research and education and

Aerialist artist Bobbi Reed - davidturnerphoto-3862

Aerialist artist Bobbi Reed amid decor by Tamar Productions.

support other Foundation initiatives. The black-tie affair began with a lively pre-dinner reception and a silent auction that featured nearly 100 items. The ballroom was draped in billowy red and white sheer fabric

Scholarship recipient Emily Cihla with parents Karen Olenski and David Cihla

tented across the ceiling for a “big top” effect (by Tamar Productions). In the center of the room, the Ringmaster lead circus-style acts that entertained guests before dinner. John C. Robak, president of Greeley and Hansen, received the President’s Award for his ongoing commitment to help change the lives of Chicago-area children and for his ardent support of the Foundation and its mission. Board member Mary Ann Rose introduced Robak, who said,

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Emcee Lourdes Duarte and Matt McGrath.

“Face the Future Foundation is truly a worthy cause, because of the incredibly profound way that it helps to make a better life for children with craniofacial differences, as well as their families.” Foundation president Rob Grant introduced the Adrienne L. Green scholarship recipient Emily Cihla who was born with Treacher

Kimberly and Christopher Gosell.

Collins Syndrome, an uncommon genetic condition. A few weeks after her birth, Dr Pravin Patel saw her for the first time, and performed emergency surgery to help her breathe. Emily, who has undergone multiple reconstructive procedures, will need treatment for the rest of her life. She attends the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she is currently a freshman, and plans to use the $5,000 scholarship award for continuing education. During her acceptance speech, Emily remarked, “I am very grateful for the care I've received from all my medical professionals at the Center who have helped get me where I am today. I'd also like to thank Face the

Lois Pike and daughter Abby Pike.

Future Foundation whose support has made many of my treatments possible and now, with this scholarship award, my educational endeavors. They have been an integral part of my past and now are a part my

Regina Rice, Florence Mussat MD, Aline Delpierre and Joy Degani.

future.” (Read more of Emily’s story here.) The appeal video featured Abigail Pike, who was born with cleft lip and palate and adopted from China as an infant. It touched on her personal struggles with accepting her appearance, her feelings of insecurity and inferiority and an unwillingness to smile. With the help of her team of doctors and medical professionals, and the additional surgeries she has undergone to correct the issues, she has blossomed into a smiling 16-year-old. (Click here for the appeal video.) The Craniofacial Center’s director, Mimis Cohen MD, expressed his gratitude to the Foundation. (Photos by David Turner)

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Designer Borris Powell bares his soul at his "Trapped" fashion show.

On March 24 at the Drake Hotel one of Chicago's most beloved fashion designers bared his soul through his #TRAPPED collection. It was an exciting fashion moment, as all of Borris Powell's' runway shows are, but it also came with a touchingly honest revelation on the life he's led. As a sellout crowd enjoyed his latest looks, a new line that transcends seasons and instead embraces them all (his Trans Season Collection), no one was aware of the pain Borris had kept from even his closest friends. In Borris' own words, "I feel that while this is my most favorite collection that I've ever designed, it was the most hurtful at the same time. I personally was going through a lot of disappointment, heartache, shame, feeling of loneliness, and so much more that started to lead to a bit of depression. For way too long I would hide these feelings out of shame, or the fact that I thought I would scare friends and clients away. Going to different events and being out, I got very good at acting as if I was on top of the world and I was living the

Borris and makeup artist Kim prepare for the show.

most amazing life. You know what they say. 'Fake it until you make it' or 'Keeping up with the Jones.' Living the constant lie and then coming back to my reality became unbearable for me. Before too long, I was living a #trapped life. Pretending to be what everyone had come to expect me to be based on the type of garments that I make and the events that I attend, was eating at me. Because that was far from the life that I was truly living. There was a time that I was living out of a car that my

The collection was for all sexes and spanned all seasons.

dad had given me. See, I didn't even have an address, but yet I was attending lavish events and brushing shoulders with some of the most wealthiest. At times, at these events, it could have been my only true meal that day. It was 8 months living like this before I was able to climb my way out of the darkness. But the damage had

Borris promoting his fashion show on TV and smiling through the pain.

already been done. It would take me some time to be able to direct this hurt and pain that almost took me down a path of no return and make it into a message. I have to give credit to music once again for saving my life. One day I heard a song that grabbed me. Then that song led me to two more. Ultimately, these three songs started to give me a sense of purpose. From there, visions. Then it started to make more and more sense. I was feeling trapped within a life that I worked so hard to build." He added, " I just hope that by me telling my truth, I can help take some of the shame away and save someone else that might

The "Borris" bag–GIMME!

not see a way out, and or, make more of us aware of the hurt that our loved ones are going through. If we pay closer attention, maybe we can save someone that isn't as strong in that moment, or doesn't have an outlet to work out the darkness." (For 24 hour depression helpline, click here) The collection and Borris received multiple standing ovations. There were lots of tears but Borris is coming out of the darkness and taking his true place in the world–a place where love is more important than money and the truth will always set you free. Love and thank you for your honesty Borris. I bet there are more people living like this than you know. You are never alone. (Save October 19 for Borris' next big show!)

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The exhibit!

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum hosted "Shall We Dance," the opening night gala of the Museum's new fashion exhibition, Silver Screen to Mainstream: American Fashion in the 1930’s and 40’s. More than 150 guests attended the event on April 5 which included an elegant ballroom dance performance by the popular Megan and Igor Afonkin. Guests also enjoyed music

Kathleen Haines-Finley– a vision of style.

by Michael Lerich and His Orchestra. The event raised over $100,000 in support of the Costume Council’s commitment to the Chicago History Museum and was co-chaired by Pamella Capitanini, Karen Peters and Richard and Diane Weinberg. The fashionable event included a champagne

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Co-chair Richard Weinberg and his dance partner.

reception and a first-look at the exhibit. The Costume Council supports the Museum’s world-renowned costume collection, which contains over 50,000 pieces dating from the 1750s to the present and, if you haven't visited, you're really missing out. Its holdings encompass garments worn by prominent Chicagoans and Americans. Unique pieces include personal items belonging to Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, Michael Jordan's basketball uniform and Mahalia Jackson's choir robe. The earliest pieces

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Always handsome guest Mark Olley!

include suits worn by George Washington and John Adams. The Museum's extensive couture holdings, ranging from Charles Worth gowns to the innovative designs of Yohji Yamamoto, have earned an international reputation. (All

Beautiful co-chair Pam Capitanini (center) and friends.

FAB photos by Mark Olley!)

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Lin Brehmer with the Browns.

The Les Turner ALS Foundation hosted its annual Hope Through Caring Gala on March 9 at Rockwell on the River in Chicago. Nearly 450 people helped honor Mindy Evans-Williams and Robert L. Sufit, MD, raising $617,000 for the foundation. The gala featured a video presentation, paddle raise, balloon raffle, award presentations and music by The Chicago Players. Emcee Paul Lisnek (of WGN-TV) opened the evening’s program followed by heartfelt remarks from Les Turner ALS Foundation’s CEO Andrea Pauls Backman and board chair Ken Hoffman. Andrea and Ken spoke of the

Josh Newsome, Andy Jordan and cute friend.

Foundation’s role in the lives of those affected by ALS and thanked the 21 men and women living with ALS who were in attendance. “We were honored to be joined by so many people living with ALS and are grateful to everyone we serve for trusting us with their care,” said Backman. “People living with ALS and their families are the spirit of what we do, and every decision we make and step forward we take is informed by and because of them. They are our constant motivation to put an end to this devastating disease.” Auctioneer Wade Leist led the crowd in an exciting and highly successful paddle raise that realized over $243,000. Mindy was diagnosed with ALS in September of 1992 and has received support

Laurie Fieldman, Mindy Evans-Williams (honoree) and friend.

and resources from the Foundation. To show her

Paul Lisnek (R) and friends.

appreciation and to help others facing their own unique experiences with ALS, Mindy generously pays it forward with gifts and donations to the Foundation. She was presented with the Hope Through Caring Award by her longtime friend and social worker with the Foundation, Laurie B. Fieldman, LCSW. The program included an additional award presentation, the first-ever Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS, which was given to Robert Sufit, MD. Throughout his 27 years as a neurologist at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine, Rob has helped thousands of families affected by ALS and has demonstrated a commitment to creating individualized treatments and furthering research through more than 90 scientific publications.

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Blending in at Chanel's private party.

On April 9, Oak Street was abuzz as Chanel hosted an official private party to celebrate its gorgeous new location at 65 E. Oak Street. I suspect this Tuesday night event was the first of many for the store but it was a thrill to be included for this one that attracted a lot of familiar faces. Black-clad name checkers made sure no one who wasn't invited slipped inside the door. Inside, Champagne on silver

Chanel Takeover at Le Colonial.

trays and caviar topped hors d'oeuvres were passed through the well-heeled throng. Designed by Peter Marino, the space is a work of art–all black, white and silver sleekness with a restroom that belongs in the Louvre, pink slabs of marble on all four walls

Chuck enjoying Le Colonial's exquisite bar.

with not a seam in sight. Oh my. A dinner followed next door at Le Colonial–Chicago's newest hotspot–where the always darling Nate Berkus and his husband were seen dining earlier in the week. The entire restaurant was a "Chanel Takeover” with gorgeous white flowers topping the tables. It was a beautiful space that I had only seen packed on a regular, open-to-the-public night. With less people, I was

Julianna Zobrist wearing light-up Chanel sandals.

able to truly appreciate how magnificent this restaurant is from the cherry wood and zinc bars that had to be airlifted through the windows to the exquisite

Beautiful mother/daughter tablemates.

coffered ceiling. And, in true Chanel-perfection-form, the takeaway gift was a 7 ounce bottle of "1957" cologne! To die. Seen on the scene were Toni Canada, clad in a magnificent bejeweled vintage Chanel jacket, Susanna Homan, Liza Schweitzer, Paula Borg, Julianna Zobrist (wearing Chanel light-up sandals), Liz Ryan, Hanah Jubeh, Whitley Bouma-Herbert, Gregg Zgonena and Shaun Moselik and so many others! Huge congrats to owner Joe King–customers who loved the old Le Colonial spot needn't have worried about the change–it's even better than the original!

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Dan Murphy, gala chair, and Dr. Maria Carrillo, Chief Science Officer, Alzheimer's Assn.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s top supporters and committee members gathered at the Conrad Hilton Suite at the Hilton Chicago on March 19 for their annual Kick-Off for an intimate research update and conversation with Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer, Maria Carrillo, PHD. The event was held in honor of the 32^nd Annual Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala, which is taking place on May 4^th at the Hilton Chicago. Guests discussed the upcoming

Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Legacy Award recipients, center) with Betsy and Dave Goltermann.

gala event and its theme of “The Key to the Future” – inspired by Paris’ world-famous Pont des Arts (the Love Lock Bridge), bringing together advocates passionate about unlocking a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Joan and Paul Rubschlager, Zenith Society members, were recognized with the Legacy

Philanthropists Joan and Paul Rubschlager (2019 Gala Legacy Award recipients) and valued members of the community.

Award for their ongoing support of the Association's global research program. In 2012, they generously donated $1 million for the efforts and in 2018, they made a second Zenith Society-level investment to support the nutritional counseling and modification component of the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health. The Rubschlagers are much loved members of the community and their support spans across many fields of medical research and the arts. (For gala info, click here!) (Photos by Bill Richert)

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Congrats to much loved Nick Pullia, Ravinia's adorable award-winning Director of Communications,

Nick Pullia, Ravinia's Director of Communications, is a cover star!

who was recently featured in the cover story of the Highland Park Neighbors Magazine! The wide ranging article by Paul Clements (with photos by Scott McDougall) covered everything

With Shelita Shaw, Jennifer Schulze, Nick Pullia, Dina Bair and Cheryl Burton.

from Nick's enthusiasm for the arts to his successful "side job" as a screen writer (he's sold two screenplays, including one to Ralph Lauren's producer/son Andrew Lauren). Nick's interests are wide and varied and includes a menagerie of beloved furry friends–a Moluccan Cockatoo, a rescued Scarlet Macaw and Sun Conure. Rescue dogs include a Pyrenees mix, Redtick Coonhound and a harlequin-coated Great Dane. His creativity and joie de vivre are limitless and contagious. It's an honor to call him a friend. Congrats with love Nick!

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Co-hosting CS Datebook Launch with David Zivan, Modern Luxury Group Editor/Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago.

Thanks to David Zivan (Modern Luxury Group Editor/ Editor-in-Chief CS Mag and Men's Book Chicago) and Dan Uslan (Modern Luxury Market President) for the privilege of co-hosting your fabulous CS Datebook 2019 Launch Party on March 26. It was a packed house at Truluck's (41 E. Chestnut) for this celebration of Chicago's "charity Bible"! It's

Truluck's managing partner Andrea Gentry and Dan Uslan, Modern Luxury Market President.

my go-to source (after CandidCandace.com, of course!) for all the latest and best event news with fab photos from past charity events. The "source" is a great guide for what's happening around town and it actually serves as a vetting process too so, if your event isn't listed, make sure you contact CS for next year! I co-hosted with David

Hot singer Molly Callinan.

who gave me such an incredible introduction that I wished I'd been wearing waterproof mascara. The entertainment couldn't have been better as the incredible and beautiful Molly Callinan (who also serves as the lead singer for Gary Sinise & Lt. Dan Band!!) sang her heart out onstage. There were welcoming remarks from Dan as well as the managing partner of Truluck's Andrea Gentry. The spring decor and magnificent ice sculpture made the event even more special as we mixed and mingled with friends that included Paul Iacono, Andrea Schwartz, Laura Schwartz (who is soon to be Laura Schwartz Santiago), Michael Caputo, Ken Norgan, Matt Olaveson,

Michael Caputo

Michael Kutza, John Robak and Bethany, Jennifer Kiefer, Tom Ward, Beth Silverman, Joanna Slusky, Geoff Burton, Adrienne Squires, the Landan Twins, Laurie Dimakos,

With the fab staff of Truluck's, 41 E. Chestnut. (Photo by Jan Salazar)

Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jackie O'Connor, Mila Samokhina and daughter Elena, Heather Farley Ingram, Rhonda Sanderson, Simona Garcia, Nan Giordano, Joshua Blake Carter, Victor Mitchell, Peter Au, Kyle Curry and so many others! It was a great night with friends celebrating the wealth of nonprofits we are lucky to have here in the Windy City! A special shout-out and thanks to Sam Tobias (Modern Luxury Director of Marketing) and her team for making the evening simply perfect!

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Popular Paul Iacono celebrates his BD with friends.

I don't know anyone who celebrates birthdays like Chicago's own Paul Iacono (president Chicago Dowel Company) And, it's through no fault of his own, he just has so damn many friends who want to celebrate with him! I bet he goes out every night for a month or more. For this year's fete, Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff planned a very memorable evening that began at Todd's elegant condo on Lake Shore

Party hosts with the most Frances Renk and Todd Hatoff.

Drive. It was all old world elegance combined with modern touches. Multiple views of the lake and the city could be seem from every room that was decorated Art Deco-style with the original moldings and 1920s limestone fireplace intact. Everywhere Todd went, his beloved dog

With Frances Renk, Monica Canellis, Sherry Lea Holson and Lou Canellis at AVLI.

Lucy followed, even placing herself perfectly for the group photo. Lucky guests included Jennifer and Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Jeff Shea and his wife Melissa, Chris Renk, Chuck, Sherry Lea Holson, Kadmiel Christmas and Dede Lubeznik. Following cocktails at Todd's, we headed over to the new Lincoln Park hotspot, Avli Taverna(1335 W. Wrightwood). This Greek restaurant is an offshoot of the one in suburban Winnetka, both owned

BD boy Paul Iacono with Jennifer Sutton and Dr. Joaquin Brieva.

by Louie Alexakis. The Lincoln Park spot includes sportscaster Lou Canellis as part of the crew. He greeted us warmly, along with his glam wife Monica (with baby in tow). It's a family spot for sure with delicious dishes that include great small plates and mains like moussaka tselementes (a 1910 casserole recipe of roasted lamb, bechamel, eggplant and potatoes). A Greek Feast BBQ Lamb requires a 24 hour pre-order. Everything was DELICIOUS with a capital D! Happy BD Paul and thanks for Avli, Louis and Lou!

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Collector's Call on Me-TV!

Watch out Antiques Roadshow, a new show debuted Sunday night on Me-TV! "Collector's Call" showcases people with unique collections with a surprising twist at the end! Check it

Our segment will be the season finale on June 23 with Leslie Hindman and Thomas Joyce.

out every Sunday at 9 pm central. (Listings here!) (The show is on RCN channel 14 in Chicago.) AND, mark your calendar for June 23, when my segment is featured as the season finale with Leslie Hindman as a trusty advisor and book appraiser Thomas Joyce!

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Best wishes and good luck to my friend/fellow Chicago Now blogger Sabrina Nixon on her latest children's book, "The Adventures of Kameron." This beautifully illustrated book follows the journey of Kameron, a young boy with autism, that is based on the story of her real life son. It helps provide an understanding of this often misunderstood disorder in a fun and colorful manner. (To order, click here) April is Autism Awareness Month!

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FashionBar Chicago (Tony Long and team) presented a series of well-attended fashion

With FashionBar's Tony Long and friend.

shows to spotlight Chicago Fashion Week recently. The week started with an Evening Wear collection previewed at Joy District. The following shows were held at Water Tower Place and included

Design by Jackie Holloway-The Jackie O Experience.

a Trans, Media & Fashion, Modern Minimalist, Beautiful Business, Urban Ready Wear and Resort & Swimwear shows. We attended the Trans, Media & Fashion Show that benefited Howard Brown Health Center. Models from the Broadway Youth Center captivated attendees presenting looks from some of Chicago's hottest designers. (Jackie Holloway –Jackie O Experience- was a personal favorite!) Don't miss this event next year as FashionBar Chicago "raises the bar" for Windy City style!

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Former President George Bush receives the Leadership Prize from ALPLF. (Photo by Ana Miyares)

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation (ALPLF) presented former President George W. Bush with ALPLF’s Lincoln Leadership Prize at the Mariott Marquis Chicago on April 1. While the event was closed to media, you know Candid Candace has her sources! Congrats to former President Bush and thanks RJ Bruce!

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Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, with James Gourley.

It was such an incredible night at the Geraghty for UNICEF's 12th annual gala. From the interactive installations to the sexy Moroccan vide to the keynote speaker, the event drove the point home about the need to support humanity (children in particular) in crises throughout the world. Speaker Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's granddaughter, spoke about her iconic relative and the impact she had helping children in her role as UNICEF ambassador. See this moving video here and check my Chicago Tribune column for details coming soon!

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There are so many worthwhile charities that are hosting yearly fundraisers. Please check out some of my favorites: On Thursday, September 19 (Chuck's birthday), Haute Dog Chicago returns for the 4th year to the Peninsula. Benefiting Canine Companions for Independence, the evening will feature a doggie runway show, produced by ZZAZZ Productions, with lots of local notables! Click here for tickets/more info!

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Holiday Heroes' annual gala returns on Thursday, June 13, at Theater on the Lake (2401 N. Lake Shore Drive). This is the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit that benefits hospitalized children in the Chicagoland area and, this year, the Heart of a Hero honoree will be Kristina McGrath. For tickets, more info, click here!

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The Ingalls Development Foundation will host its annual benefit on Saturday, June 1, at the Tinley Park Convention Center. The event will raise funds to help improve the health of the Chicago Southland communities served by Ingalls and feature legendary entertainer Smokey Robinson. The night will include a VIP reception, dinner and program. For tickets, $125, and more info, click here!

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On Saturday, May 4, the Howard Brown Health Center will present ChiQ, a fundraiser that raises money for the Center's women's services, at the South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive). HBH was founded in 1974 and is now one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) organizations in the country serving more than 35,000 adults and youth each year. For tickets/more info, click here!

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The Goodman Theatre will host its annual gala, "Starstruck," on Saturday, May 18, at the Fairmont. The event will benefit the theatre's programming and outreach and feature Tony Award nominee Megan Hilty. (For tickets/info, click here!) Also, mark your calendars for Monday, July 8, the opening night of their big musical revival of "The Music Man"!

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The Commercial Finance Association (CFA) will present its "CFA Cares Spring Gala" on Friday, May 10 at the Ivy Room (12 E. Ohio). This year's event will benefit Imerman Angels, a nonprofit that provides one-on-one free cancer support. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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The Chinese American Service League will host its 40th anniversary Spring Gala on Thursday, May 9, at Morgan Manufacturing. This year's event will honor Michael Tang with the Golden Lion award. Thanks CASL for all the good you do in the community! For tickets/more info, click here! (Proud to be a host committee member along with Judy Hsu, Linda Yu, Joanie Lum and others!)

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Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilynne Robinson.

The 2019 Newberry Library Awards Dinner will be held on Monday, May 6. The evening will bid a fond farewell to David Spadafora, president and librarian, and honor Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilynne Robinson for her outstanding achievements and support. For tickets, more info, click here!

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The Music Institute of Chicago will honor acclaimed trumpet player, bandleader, composer and educator Wynton Marsalis with the prestigious Dushkin Award at the Four Seasons on Monday, May 20. The celebration will also recognize philanthropic and civic leaders Caryn and King Harris and Susan Charles. For tickets/more info, click here!

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The 14th Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism benefit will support the work of the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs on Thursday, April 18, at the Club. The Ring Lardner Award, that honors excellence in sports journalism, will be presented to Peggy Kusinski (NBC 5), Mike Downey and Lacy Banks (posthumously). Presenters will include Linda Yu (ABC-7/Sun-Times) and former Chicago Bull Bill Cartwright. For tickets, $200, and more info, click here!

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The "Art of Caring: Compassionate with Purpose" benefit will celebrate 30 years of support by the Catholic Charities of Lake County. The event will be held on Saturday, April 6 at the Armour House Mansion and Gardens and include a gourmet dinner, dancing, music by LFC Entertainment and more! This fundraiser has raised more than $5.8 million and supports 28 lake county programs including Meals on Wheels and Diaper Depot. For tickets/more info, click here!

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Olympian Michael Phelps will host a star-studded benefit on May 19.

Olympian Michael Phelps will host "Golf. Give. Gala," an event to benefit his Michael Phelps Foundation on Sunday, May 19, at the Hotel Baker in St. Charles, Illinois. Influential guests will include Patrick Sharp (Blackhawks), Tim Tebow (NFL), Taylor Kinney ("Chicago Fire"), Kerry Wood (Cubs), David Ross (Cubs), Ben Higgins and Colton Underwood ("The Bachelor"), Jeremy Piven (actor), Drew Scott ("Property Brothers") and more! A surprise musical performance is scheduled too! The Foundation supports water-safety, wellness, and goal-setting programs for Boys & Girls Clubs of America members and Special Olympics International athletes. The following day, May 20, Phelps will also host a golf tourney. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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The Driehaus Design Initiative will present the Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence runway show competition on Friday, April 26, at Chicago Vintage Motor Carriage (700 S. Desplaines St.) Produced by ZZAZZ Productions, the designers will be judged by a celebrity panel to determine the winner, who will receive a check for $7,500, the production of a look book and an apparel display at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Neiman's Wendy Krimins will select one designer to receive the Neiman Marcus Distinguished Designer Award that will include a window display at the Michigan Avenue store as well. For tickets/more info, click here!

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The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation will host its 13th annual medical briefing luncheon, "Unlocking the Secrets & the Silence" on Wednesday, May 8 at the Casino (195 E. Delaware Pl.) This year's Shining Star Award will be presented to Mary Ellen McGrath in recognition of her support, leadership and commitment to the Foundation. For tickets, $250, and more info click here!

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On Friday, May 3, High Jump Chicago (HJC) will present its annual Spring Opportunity Benefit at the Four Seasons Chicago. This is the organization's signature fundraising event to raise funds for tuition-free programs for Chicago middle school students from families with limited financial means. Notable guests will include Meredith Bluhm-Wolf, Priscilla Kersten, Jack Ferro and Michael Episcope. For tickets/more info, click here!

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F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment) will host its annual benefit at the Chicago Yacht Club (Monroe harbor) on Saturday, April 13. The evening will feature local artists competing and displaying their extraordinary skills through song and dance, a buffet, dancing and more. For tickets/more info, click here! (This wonderful benefit was founded by Lily Liu of Lily's Talent Agency, of which I'm proudly registered! Kudos Lily!)

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And last but not least, please join Michael Caputo and me when we return as co-chairs for Eversight Illinois' Gift of Sight Gala set for Thursday, October 24, back at the Peninsula! We'll be honoring Sherry Lea Holson as the Woman of Vision. We are planning LOTS of surprises so prepare to expect the unexpected at this creative black-tie masquerade party to benefit sight restoration. For tickets/more info, please click here!

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I hope you've enjoyed the latest edition! It's thrilling to be able to cover all the wonderful goings on here in our great city (and beyond!) If you have a story to share, please email me at candacejordan@rcn.com and, if not a subscriber, please sign in HERE!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I found two inspiring videos and couldn't decide which to share so I'm sharing both! Enjoy!

1) Thomas, 11 months, hears a violin for the first time……awwww……

2) Mind-blowing paper sculptures by artist Felix Semper….Slinky time!

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Tagged as Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation, Alzheimer's Association, Borris Powell, Canine Companions for Independence, Catholic Charities of Lake County, Chanel, Chicago Dowel Company, Chicago Now, ChiQ, Collector's Call, Commercial Finance Association, Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, CS Magazine, Dan Uslan, David Zivan, Driehaus Design Initiative, Emma Kathleen Hepburn Ferrer, F.A.M.E., Face the Future Foundation, FashionBar Chicago, George W. Bush, Geraghty, Golf Give Gala, Goodman Theatre, Haute Dog Chicago, High Jump Chicago, Highland Park Neighbors Magazine, Holiday Heroes, Hope Through Caring, Howard Brown Health Center, Imerman Angels, Ingalls Development Foundation, John Robak, Kehoe Designs, Kristina McGrath, Le Colonial, Les Turner/ ALS Foundation, Lily Liu, Me-TV, Michael Lerich, Michael Phelps, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mimis Cohen, Molly Callinan, Music Institute of Chicago, Nate Berkus, Newberry Library, Nick Pullia, Pam Capitanini, Paul Iacono, Peggy Kusinski, Ravinia, Richard Weinberg, Rita Hayworth Gala, Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation, Sabrina Nixon, Shall We Dance, Smokey Robinson, Starstruck, Tamar Productions, Tony Long, Trulucks, UI Health Craniofacial Center, UNICEF, Union League Boys and Girls Clubs, Wynton Marsalis

March 25, 2013 · 12:24 pm

“INSPIRING FASHION” COSTUME BALL: EVERYONE WAS A STAR!

…PLUS "FACE THE FUTURE" FOUNDATION GALA; URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL;” A BELOVED PR FIRM’S BIG KUDOS;“CELEBRATE YOURSELF HEALTHY;” GIULIANA AND LINDSAY'S BIG IDEA; A MODERN DAY LOVE STORY; CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; MADHATTER’S BRUNCH FOR BROADWAY YOUTH CENTER; A SAD GOODBYE; WCIU VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was one of the most beautiful events I’ve attended. Every guest who came through the front door of the Chicago History Museum looked like they were stepping out of the pages of Vogue – even emcee Bill Zwecker agreed
saying, “In all of the years, I don’t think I’ve seen a more glamorous, fashionable crowd.” From the moment you entered the building, you knew you were going to witness history. Beautiful models were stationed at every turn wearing the most dramatic fashions from the legendary Ebony Fashion Fair collection. They lined the staircases, draped languorously against
the walls and modeled on pedestals set up throughout the room. It was one night where you knew you had to find your best stuff to wear. Black tie wasn’t simply a suggestion – it was a mandate and everyone
dressed to impress. Eunice Johnson’s eye was unerring and she gravitated towards the bold and dramatic, much like I suspect she was as a person. After all, one would have to be to become the trailblazer she was for the African American community. She introduced
high couture to people who wouldn’t have otherwise seen it across the country and in spectacular fashion. She utilized top models who also represented her own sensibilities…other trailblazers like Iman and Pat Cleveland, two
of the first black supermodels. Pat Cleveland attended this event and I saw her as she entered the building: It was like I was watching a film in slow motion because she didn’t really walk in…she glided. (Her swanlike neck was still the same as I remembered it in all
of the top fashion magazines.) And that dress! OMG! It was pale pink with a train that stretched forever but she didn’t seem to notice. I would’ve been screaming at people to “watch my train” – the true mark of an amateur – but not Pat: As she posed for photos, you sensed a life in front of the cameras, someone completely comfortable in her own skin. Vogue’s international editor-at-large Hamish Bowles spotted
her, too (everyone did), and rushed to her side. As they chatted about goodness knows what, flashes were going off like crazy. It was definitely a “moment,” one of many for this fashion event of the season. One of
my favorite photogs, Bob Carl, was shooting this event and he told me not to miss the dramatic décor in the big tent where we would soon be dining so I headed downstairs and my breath rushed out of my body. Truly, I’ve never seen a more elegant room…all
done in shades of purple, design guru Tom Kehoe had truly outdone himself this time! From the “upside-down orchids” hung in huge squares at every table to the chandelier within a chandelier within another chandelier hanging from the
draped ceiling, you just didn’t know where to look first. As a matter of fact, when guests streamed in later, there was a huge bottleneck at the door as guests stood gaping. And this was all BEFORE I saw the amazing exhibition featuring more than 60 fashions from
the Ebony Fashion Fair! OMGoodness! Well, you’ve probably seen a lot of photos by now since I know people were posting and Instagramming like crazy while I was there and for good reason: These were some of the top pieces from the couture collection of Eunice Johnson and the Fashion Fair and they were awe inspiring in both their drama and creativity. My favorites were the Givenchy silver raffia
evening gown from 1997; the Christian Lacroix cocktail ensemble; the Jean Patou day ensemble (I would KILL for this outfit!); B Michael’s rainbow dress (he was there and so proud, and rightfully so!); Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld’s “shower dress”; Bob
Mackie’s evening ensemble with white feathers and silver beads; Henry Jackson’s black and white ball gown; and Emanuel Ungaro’s floral bridal gown from 1996. (Insert long, loving sigh here…) When guests finally sat down for dinner, emcee Bill Zwecker thanked the crowd and introduced Costume Council president Nena Ivon, who thanked the co-chairs and told an
adorable story about Tom Kehoe. She said, “We stayed within budget for our décor but Mr. Kehoe decided it wasn’t
enough, so he did more.” How cool is this guy?! When honorary chair for the event, Linda Johnson Rice, was finally introduced the standing ovation was thunderous. She was beautiful from head to toe with a twinkle in her eye that drew you in and everyone loved hearing the story behind this exhibition and how her mother put together this awe-inspiring collection. Linda also gave a shout-out to curator Joy Bivins and to
Dan Oliver saying, “He designed everything you see here – he knew my mother’s vision.” The Ebony Fashion Fair travelled across the country for 50 years raising
millions for African American charities. No one wanted the evening to end so DJs Kiss and Moss made sure guests danced, danced, danced the night away at yet another fabulous party in our Windy City…truly the FIRST city of fashion! (View more photos from this fab evening here!)

Transporting guests back to a time when all was glittering and decadent, the grand ballroom of the Four Seasons was decked out in Roaring Twenties décor for the Face the Future Foundation’s gala “Flappers, Fedoras and All That Jazz: A Night on the Toddlin' Town.” Guests
channeled the fashion sensibilities of the decade with gals in beaded headpieces, lace and fringed dresses adorned with long strands of pearls while guys sported fedoras and bow ties. Two massive Art Deco vases filled with white ostrich plumes graced the entrance of the foyer. Co-chairs Mary Genet and
Michael Judge welcomed more than 300 guests to this elegant affair that included an extensive silent auction and “gambling” at “Jimmy’s Place Casino.” Honorary Chair Chicago Bear Israel “Izzy” Idonije arrived looking dapper as always in a black suit and white shirt topped with a fedora. Other
guests included Dr. Mimis Cohen and his wife Andrea Biel Cohen, Dr. Paula Allen-Meares, Dr. Joe "Skip" Garcia, Dr. Dimitri Azar and Dr. Enrico Benedetti. As the doors swung open at 8:00 p.m., guests oohed and ahhhed over the softly lit golden hued décor while the Stanley Paul Orchestra played the tunes of the era from the Charleston to the Foxtrot in the
background. Emcee Dr. Sandra Goldberg of NBC 5 Chicago, welcomed guests and introduced Izzy. Foundation President Gus Abello presented the President’s Award to Jim Staples for his fundraising efforts and support of the Foundation. A live auction included a Venice/Paris
excursion of 11 days/10 nights with two nights in Venice, then overnight on the Orient Express into Paris to enjoy a full week in a luxurious Paris apartment (AWESOME!); an idyllic escape to Virgin Gorda, BVI, to spend a week at the Bitter End Yacht Club (I love Dana Hokin Garvey and her fabulous family who created this
amazing oasis); a romantic getaway with a Polynesian flair to the South Pacific for a Tahitian cruise aboard the small luxury ship m/s/ Paul Gauguin; and a wine cellar with more than 100 bottles of premium wines and champagne. The item that drew particularly fierce but friendly bidding was the week in a Tuscan villa for 12 people and a private chef. The generous donor of the villa offered the three top bidders the opportunity to each enjoy their own week. The live auction raised more than $100,000 with
another $60,000 in revenue coming from the Paddle Raise. (Event proceeds topped $340,000.) Michigan Avenue Magazine was the media sponsor for this wonderful event that raises funds and public awareness to support the care and treatment of children born with cleft lip, palate and other craniofacial abnormalities. The Center at UIC is one of the oldest and largest facilities of its kind in the USA. Click here for more info. (Photos by Jon Recana.)

Urban Gateways’ Art for All Gala was held March 8th at City Winery Chicago and attracted more than 300 people. Many prominent Chicago business and civic leaders attended including
Kay and Jim Mabie (who served as honorary chairs for the event), Francee Harrington, Richard Dent, Eunita Rushing and an honorary/advisory committee that included
Cheryl Mayberrry McKissack and Eric McKissack, Susan and Nick Pritzker and Dawoud Bey. This enchanting, art-filled evening supported Urban Gateways, one of the largest arts service providers in the city. Programs are led by some of the city’s most
talented professional artists in music, dance, theater, literary arts, visual arts and digital media, serving 57,000 students and teachers annually. The evening included cocktails, dinner, auction prizes and live performances by Urban Gateways performing groups: 20th Century Players and Chicago Improv Productions plus a special percussion performance by high school students from an Urban Gateways after-school program, a
presentation by Urban Gateways digital media student/filmmaker Michael Coleman and a gallery of
incredible student artwork. Urban Gateways educates and inspires young people by delivering high-quality, accessible arts experiences that advance their personal and academic growth. (For more info, please click here!)

Huge congrats to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting, Inc.! They were honored with THREE national public relations awards for non-profit communications account work recently at the 2013 PR News Nonprofit PR Awards luncheon at the National Press Club in
Washington, D.C. Henson Consulting, which celebrates its 12th anniversary this year, won in the high-profile Fundraising category, as well as in the areas of Event PR and PR on a Shoestring Budget. “Nothing is more gratifying than the work we do for our nonprofit
clients,” said HC founder and CEO, Kathleen Henson. “By extending the reach of some of the country’s top charities and arts institutions, both locally and nationally, we’ve had the honor and privilege of being an integral part of
supporting families with sick children, creating awareness for amazing cultural experiences, and raising the profile of open hearted individuals among us. It is the most fulfilling work that we do as a firm, and to be honored for excellence
in this area is very, very special.” In 2011 in honor of the company’s 10th anniversary, Henson created a new division of Henson Consulting called HC3. This practice area is dedicated to providing public relations, marketing and communications support for organizations, companies and individuals that are “doing good while
doing well.” The client roster of HC3 also includes high-profile charitable work for TV personality Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue (supporting autism awareness), Bright Pink and Giuliana Rancic’s Fab-U-Wish (providing support to women battling breast
and ovarian cancer), Greg Olsen’s Kicks for a Cure (supporting breast cancer research) and Camp Kesem (providing magical camp experiences for children whose parents were touched by cancer), among others. Congrats to Kathleen and her team on these much deserved honors! 🙂

March 9th was a memorable evening for fitness and health maven Shea Vaughn and the dedicated friends and supporters of her cause, Healthy Initiative. “Celebrate Yourself Healthy” took place at Germania Place with hundreds of guests to honor the cause and its mission to promote better health
practices and fight disease. The launch of Healthy Initiative started with forty participants challenged to transform themselves in 90 days with the help nutritionists, personal trainers, mentors and lifestyle regimes. For those
people, March 9th was their special day, too: Each was showcased in designs from J-Na Couture and Mark Roscoe with hair by Custom Hair Lounge and makeup by Josie Volpentesta and Brenda Arelano. The night was hosted by Jeff Conway
of NBC’s 24/7, Jon Cotay of Akira and success coach Bill Walsh. This exciting evening included hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, live entertainment by David Rothstein Music, opera by reigning Miss Heart of Illinois Marisa Buchheit, laughter by comedian and writer Jennifer Weigle and a special key note speech by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, bestselling author of “Eat to Live” and wellness advocate often seen on “The Dr. Oz Show.” TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. Congrats on a great event Shea! For more info, please visit healthyinitiative.org.

“Cutest Couple” alert! Please add Kyla McCarthy and Tim Smithe, Jr. to the list of high profile cuties who are tying the knot this summer! Their blow-out engagement party attracted hundreds of fun-loving friends who were thrilled to
celebrate this special occasion with these beautiful/handsome lovebirds. They will be getting married on June 1st (which is Kyla’s grandparent’s 61st wedding anniversary) in Paris where they will say their vows at the Eiffel Tower! Awwwwwww…I love this!
Their families are thrilled beyond measure! Kyla’s beloved grandparents Victoria and Jack Bazarnick have passed but Tim’s grandmother, Florence Smithe, always wears Victoria’s pendant as a way of ensuring that she is always with them. (More awwwwws!) This is a true love
story made even sweeter by this big family, as four generations of Smithes have embraced Kyla and her family in such a beautiful way. I wish this for all brides and grooms-to-be. Kyla and Tim met over a year ago at CareerBuilder and it was
love at first sight. What Tim says about Kyla: “No matter how stubborn I am, she never quits on me and my faults. I always end up seeing the other side and becoming a better person, a more well-rounded man because she is a part of my life.” Kyla on Tim: “What I love most about my fiancé is his heart. He is
able to connect with any single person on the face of this earth as long as he gets the chance to. When we talk about our future, he talks about our children as if they’re already here (we will be waiting a few years for them) and he is always smiling. It’s his kind heart, and I know it’s my job to protect it.” Their famous fathers-in-law
have hit it off, too: Walter E. Smithe’s Tim Smithe, Sr. has this to say about Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy: “What more could a father ask than to have his son find a beautiful
woman who makes his boy so very happy? Kyla is the first new Smithe girl of this generation!” Once Tim Jr. asked for Kyla’s hand in marriage, her father said, “You know how to communicate with her, you understand her and I only wish you both the very best.” A graduate of Northeastern University with a double major in clinical psychology and philosophy and with a thesis in existential psychotherapy, Kyla would be a
dream match for any smart man – I’m just so thrilled she and Tim found each other. This soon-to-be wedding celebration was
held at Harry Caray’s Steakhouse (located at 33 W. Kinzie) and included Kimberly McCarthy, Joe Ahern, Deputy Superintendant Al Wysinger, Alderman Ed Burke, Grant DePorter, Mike Ditka, Steve McMichael, Casey Urlacher, Brad Parker, Kyle Badgley and Alex Najem
(American Junkie Chicago), RRP president Arturo Gomez, R.J. Melman, Jon and Andrew Landan, Matt Deichl, lots of family from both sides and so many more. I know it’s going to be an exciting and loving place in Ky-Tim’s World. Here’s wishing them the very best! 🙂 Don’t cha just love stories like this?

“E! News” anchor, “Fashion Police” host and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic is once again partnering with national non-profit Bright Pink to launch an exciting new philanthropic initiative: Fab-U-Wish. Fab-U-Wish, which made its debut online March 12th at FabUWish.org, provides young women battling breast and ovarian cancer with the opportunity to spend a day feeling
“fabulous” by living one of their wildest wishes or dreams. E! will serve as the official media partner of Fab-U-Wish. In 2011, Giuliana went through a public battle with an early stage breast cancer diagnosis, double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. During that challenging time, she relied heavily on the love and support of her husband of five years Bill
Rancic, family, close friends, colleagues, fans around the world and Bright Pink founder Lindsay Avner. However, it was the days of having her hair and make-up done at E!, putting on gorgeous designer gowns to interview celebrities on the red carpet or receiving the full Hollywood treatment that helped her feel more like a princess and less like a patient. She realized that her own special form of
“fab therapy” helped take her mind off her breast cancer battle and remain optimistic, rather than continuously focusing on her illness. “I’m grateful to be where I am today – a new mother, feeling strong and healthy and in a position to help other women now going through what I did,” said Giuliana. “Along with my friend Lindsay
Avner and the team at Bright Pink, I hope to pay it forward and become a “fairy godmother” to other women by establishing Fab-U-Wish. I sure know firsthand that a little bit of fabulous can go a long way to keep you feeling bright during some of the darkest days.” Applying for a Fab-U-Wish is simple: Women 45 and under currently undergoing treatment for breast and ovarian cancer can submit a 150-word essay or a two-minute video explaining their wish and how this one-of-a-kind indulgence would help bring some
brightness to them during treatment. Giuliana and Bright Pink will work together to review applications and select the most inspiring, creative, awesome, fabulous, and bright wishes to be granted each year, thanks to generous supporters and brands. To learn more about Fab-U-Wish and the official application details or to submit your wish, please visit FabUWish.org. Congrats to Giuliana on this wonderful idea and to Lindsay for all you do for so many!

Sad news to report! Former Joffrey Ballet Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway is relocating back to Los Angeles after his eight-year tenure with the dance company. As a personal friend, I will miss him
beyond measure but know this is a great opportunity for him. I met CCC at the very first Couture & Cocktails in September 2005. His twinkling eyes and whip-smart wit made everyone want to be his friend. I was lucky to have him as a dear one for so long! He changed the Joffrey in so many
immeasurable ways and helped make it the world class company it is today. He completed its $40 million capital campaign, he doubled annual giving to the company, he rebranded and reinvigorated the Joffrey
and created unprecedented media and corporate recognition, he recruited a new artistic team after the death of beloved founder Gerald Arpino, he helped design and build the Joffrey Tower (the first permanent headquarters for the company), he helped produce the 2012 hit
documentary “Mavericks of American Dance,” he launched the “Choreographers of Color” competition in 2010, he increased the Joffrey’s subscription base by 300 percent and he launched the Young Professional’s Board in 2009, among MANY other contributions. So as you can
see, besides being a CS Man of Style and a Paul Stuart Brand Ambassador, this man worked hard to make Chicago a better place for the arts and it will
be a lesser place without him in it. I wish you the best on your new journey CCC – don’t forget the people here who love you, like me! 🙂 BUT along with this bad news is good news for some lucky person looking for a charming 1928 English cottage home in Park Ridge. Christopher purchased this home for easy access to the airport and it’s now for sale and listed with Doug Smith of Rubloff/Prudential. (Check it out here.) We love you CCC and will miss you more than you can imagine!

The Chicago Flower & Garden Show’s preview party “Evening in Bloom” was a bloomin’ success (I know, I know!) and attracted hundreds of Chicagoans who had spring on their minds. Themed the “Art of Gardening,” this
year’s show benefitted several important charities including Chicago Gateway Green (a non-profit dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways), the
Peterson Garden Project (a volunteer non-profit committed to teaching people how to grow their own food), the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (a nonprofit that provides support and assistance to the families of
Chicago Police Officers killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty), the Kendall College Charitable Trust (a nonprofit dedicated to providing support for students in need who are enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs) and Special Olympics Chicago
(which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities). The preview event showcased nearly two dozen stunning display gardens as
well as original artworks. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Riva Restaurant, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet as well as sweets from Eli’s Cheesecake. Show director and president Tony Abruscato said, “This is
where patrons of the arts meet garden and environmental enthusiasts ready to paint the town green for a welcome return to spring.” Guests included Pat Brickhouse, Jim Althoff, Cathy Hull, Joanna and
Grant DePorter, artist Emmy Star Brown, Casey Schommer, Holly and Matt Murek, Amy and Jason Lundy, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Sa, Griffith, Sandy and Lee Golub, Albert Bautista, Pamela Fong and Sharon Ringier among many others. I never miss this beautiful event and love getting ideas for the garden! Congrats to all!

The Mad Hatter’s Brunch, a fundraising event to benefit youth programming and services at the Broadway Youth Center (BYC), will be held April 7th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the fabulous ZED451 in River North. This festive afternoon will allow guests to sport zany and outrageous hats while tasting delectable eclectic specialty dishes from a rich buffet-style spread. Nationally-recognized musical and comedy revue THE KINSEY SICKS – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet will be the featured entertainment. FYI, hats are NOT required to attend and all are welcome! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Special thanks to my sweet friends at WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” – we had a great time taping a segment recently at our home and I never wanted them to leave! If you missed it, here it is below. I especially love the surprise that co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman had for me at the end…how thoughtful are these peeps?! Love to producer Rob Morhaim, too! Just love this show!!!!!!

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Well, that’s it for this week’s Candid Candace! Please tell your friends and share!!! 🙂 And, as always, I hope you enjoyed the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. One of my oldest and dearest friends Ed Howlett just became a grandfather, thanks to his beautiful daughter Allison and handsome son-in-law, Josh Walters. Please welcome dear little Charlotte Lynn Walters to the world!

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Tagged as 2013 PR News Nonprofit PR Awards, 20th Century Players, Akira, Al Wysinger, Albert Bautista, Alderman Ed Burke, Alex Najem, Allison Rosati, Allison Walters, American Junkie, Amy Lundy, Andrea Biel Cohen, Andrew Landan, Art for All Gala, Arturo Gomez, B Michael, Bill Rancic, Bill Walsh, Bill Zwecker, Bitter End Yacht Club, Bob Carl, Bob Mackie, Brad Parker, Brenda Arelano, Bright Pink, Broadway Youth Center, Camp Kesem, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Casey Schommer, Casey Urlacher, Cathy Hull, Celebrate Yourself Healthy, Charlotte Lynn Walters, Cheryl Mayberry McKissack, Chicago Bears, Chicago Flower & Garden Show, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago History Museum, Chicago Improv Productions, Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld, Choreographers of Color, Christian Lacroix, Christopher Clinton Conway, City Winery Chicago, Couture & Cocktails, CS Man of Style, Custom Hair Lounge, Dan Oliver, Dana Hokin Garvey, David Rothstein Music, Dawoud Bey, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet, DJ Kiss, DJ Moss, Doug Smith Rubloff/Prudential, Dr. Dimitri Azar, Dr. Enrico Benedetti, Dr. Joe “Skip” Garcia, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Dr. Mimis Cohen, Dr. Paula Allen-Meares, Dr. Sandra Goldberg, E! News, Eat to Live, Ebony Fashion Fair, Ed Howlett, Eli's Cheesecake, Emanuel Ungaro, Emmy Star Brown, Eric McKissack, Eunice Johnson, Eunita Rushing, Fab-U-Wish, Face the Future Foundation, Fashion Police, Flappers Fedoras and All That Jazz: A Night on the Toddlin’ Town, Florence Smithe, Francee Harrington, Garry McCarthy, Gerald Arpino, Giuliana Rancic, Givenchy, Grant DePorter, Greg Olsen’s Kicks for a Cure, Griffith Golub, Gus Abello, Hamish Bowles, Harry Caray’s Steakhouse, HC3, Healthy Initiative, Henry Jackson, Henson Consulting Inc., Holly Murek, Iman, Inspiring Fashion Costume Ball, Israel Idonije, J-Na Couture, Jack Bazarnick, Jason Lundy, Jean Patou, Jeanne Sparrow, Jeff Conway, Jennifer Weigle, Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue, Jim Althoff, Jim Mabie, Jim Staples, Joanna DePorter, Joe Ahern, Joffrey Ballet, Jon Cotay, Jon Landan, Jon Recana, Josh Walters, Josie Volpentesta, Joy Bivins, Kathleen Henson, Kay Mabie, Kendall College Charitable Trust, Kimberly McCarthy, Kyla McCarthy, Kyle Badgley, Lee Golub, Linda Johnson Rice, Lindsay Avner, m/s/ Paul Gauguin, Mad Hatter’s Brunch, Marisa Buchheit, Mark Roscoe, Mary Genet, Matt Deichl, Matt Murek, Mavericks or American Dance, Melissa Forman, Michael Coleman, Michael Judge, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike Ditka, National Press Club, Nena Ivon, Nick Pritzker, Orient Express, Pamela Fong, Pat Brickhouse, Pat Cleveland, Paul Stuart Brand Ambassador, Peterson Garden Project, R.J. Melman, Richard Dent, Riva Restaurant, Rob Stafford, Ron Morhaim, RRP, Sa Golub, Sandy Golub, Sharon Ringier, Shea Vaughn, Special Olympics Chicago, Stanley Paul Orchestra, Steve McMichael, Susan Pritzker, TCW Magazine, The Center at UIC, The Dr. Oz Show, The Kinsey Sicks – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet, Tim Smithe Jr., Tim Smithe Sr., Tom Kehoe, Tony Abruscato, Urban Gateways, Victoria Bazarnick, Vogue, WCIU, You & Me This Morning, Young Professional’s Board, Zed451

December 13, 2012 · 11:15 am

JENNIFER HUDSON & JAMAR ROGERS ROCK THE HOUSE OF BLUES!

…PLUS JHUD/ROGERS WATCH312.COM VIDEO, MEN’S JOURNAL’S “MEN OF THE YEAR,” LOCAL DESIGNERS AND ZZAZZ playCHIC, ART BASEL AND AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW, A SILVER LINING AND MARCO FOSTER, “NAUGHTY OR NICE,” CHEF ARUN AND AMIE HANA HOST A PARTY, COACH LOVIE AND MARYANNE’S NEW ADDITION, JONNY, JOE, LILY AND ELYSABETH HONORED, WCIU’S “YOU & ME IN THE MORNING,” A WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Michigan Avenue Magazine celebrated its December holiday issue in grand style with Oscar- and Grammy-winning star Jennifer Hudson along with “The Voice” finalist Jamar Rogers at the House of Blues on Tuesday,
December 4th. The event, entitled “A Hudson Holiday,” featured a performance by Hudson that blew the doors off the place. I can’t imagine the planning that had to go into an event of this size with two stars of this caliber but I do know the emails were flying as I tried to ensure that my
Watch312.com cameras could be there to film this momentous occasion. President/publisher Dan Uslan couldn’t have been more helpful and it was exciting to see him collaborate with editor-in-chief JP Anderson. As I
waited on the red carpet with a ton of other newsies, it was cute to see them joking with each other and mock-rehearsing their speeches for later that night. They are very supportive of one another and it’s good to know this beloved magazine is in such good hands. Another highlight on the red carpet were four Joffrey Ballet dancers: Dressed in beautiful tutus,
they added to the excitement of the evening. One of my cameramen, Alonzo Stallings, was trying to hold his own on the carpet crammed between two other camera people. It did get a little tense since it
seemed there was more media than there was carpet space but everyone cooperated in the end. Channel 7’s Janet Davies had wisely positioned herself at the start of the carpet to ensure she had first dibs on
Jennifer and, sure enough, she was able to spend the most time with her before she was ushered along. JKLS PR’s Jill Katz did a terrific job of keeping everyone happy and, at the same time, ensuring that Jennifer felt comfortable with all of the interviews. Jennifer’s supportive sister, Julia,
walked the red carpet with her and you could feel the love and closeness that these two sisters share. Many times, I saw Jennifer defer to her big sister for questions so she could be included in the interviews. And now let’s talk about
that Weight Watchers program, shall we? Since 2010, Jennifer has kept off the 80 pounds she lost following her pregnancy. She credits WW and her trainer Harley Pasternak for her hot new bod and she
has NEVER looked better! Wearing a 3.1 Phillip Lim skin tight, sequined short dress with goddess-like flowing hair, she brought gasps from the crowd when she came onstage! But before her appearance, charmer Jamar Rogers had already whipped the crowd into a
frenzy singing his hit single “High” that had just dropped on iTunes that day. His inspirational delivery and positive aura filled the room with love and you can bet this Team Cee Lo protégé will be going far! For this invite-only party, Michigan Avenue Magazine requested all guests bring a new unwrapped book or toy that was given to
Chicago children in need through the Julian D. King Gift Foundation. It was a great idea and SUVs were standing by
to collect them as guests entered. With the Joffrey dancers elegantly posed behind them, Dan and JP welcomed the crowd and offered a toast before Jennifer performed. At the end of this blockbuster evening, the magazine presented a check for $10,000 to Jennifer and Julia. It was an
unforgettable memory with an entertainer who told me “I don’t do it for the awards, I do it because I love it.” We were thrilled to
be invited into sponsor Thomas Dent’s (Essentia) VIP Lounge where Moet Hennessy specialty cocktails were flowing. Other sponsors for the evening included 3X Ranch, Hillshire Brands, Motorola Mobility Foundation, United Airlines, Bob Loquercio Autogroup and TR Napa Valley among others. To read more about this exciting night and for more pics, please click here!

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On Thursday night, December 6th, leading men’s lifestyle magazine, Men’s Journal honored the Chicago Men of the Year at their new 4,575-square-foot Gear Lab
Pop-Up Shop, located at 520 N. Michigan Ave., that opened just in time for holiday shoppers seeking gift ideas for the men in their lives. Honorees and attendees included some of
Chicago’s biggest names – Brandon Marshall (Chicago Bears), Scottie Pippen (retired Chicago Bulls superstar), Jeff Garlin (actor/comedian who recently debuted his new show at Steppenwolf
Theater), Grant Achatz (three-star Michelin chef/owner of Alinea), Doug Psaltis (RPM Italian), Luke Donald (PGA golfer), Kerry Wood (former Chicago Cub), Gordon Beckham (Chicago
White Sox), Mark Silverman (Big Ten Network president), RJ Melman (Lettuce Entertain You partner), Matt Smith (IMG agent), Stefan Holt (NBC), Jerry Azumah (former
Chicago Bear and entrepreneur), Jerrod Melman (Lettuce Entertain You partner), AJ Johnson (“Chicagolicious” star), Paul McGee (nationally-acclaimed mixologist), Jon Harris (Sara Lee Corporation), Les Coney (Mesirow Financial), Rob Johnson (CBS),
Bill Zwecker (FOX/Chicago Sun-Times) and Mark Giangreco (ABC). Each was chosen because they not only embody what makes Chicago a great city, but also what the magazine is all about: “an adventurous spirit, confident sense of style, active lifestyle and desire to live the interesting life.” There supporting the men in their lives were adoring wives Larsa Pippen, Sarah
Wood, Diane Donald and Chef Hsing Chen (wife of chef Doug Psaltis), Kathleen Smith, Stacy Johnson, Allie Harris and Morgan Holt, as well as proud moms Martha
Melman and MaryAnne Smith. A venerable who’s who of Windy City tastemakers also stepped out for the private affair including Erica Strama (Shops at Northbridge),
Larry Wert (NBC5), Ryan Baker (CBS2), Catie Keogh (“24/7 Chicago”), Luis Gomez (Chicago Tribune), Marcus Riley (NBCChicago.com), Shelly Menaker (B96), Lindsay Avner (Bright Pink), Dan Uslan (Michigan Avenue Magazine),
Amy Carr (Time Out Chicago), Tarrah Cooper (Mayor’s office) and Laura Schwartz (White House Strategies), among more than 200 others. During the event, Men’s Journal publisher Christopher McLoughlin toasted the honorees and even bantered with Jeff Garlin, who took over the mic and had some fun joking with the
crowd, stating he was actually THE leading man of the year in Chicago, which got huge laughs from Pippen, Marshall and other honorees standing behind him. While sipping on Patron cocktails and enjoying signature passed hors d’oeuvres from RPM Italian,
guests were able to check out the “gear of the year” at the interactive pop-up shop – the only one of its kind in the nation. The Men’s Journal pop-up shop is open through December 23rd, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. (For more pics, please click here!)

Local designers helped launch Chicago Toy & Game Group Week on November 14th when the runway became a ‘fun-way’ as top models wore one-of-a-kind concept pieces created by some
of Chicago’s most innovative and respected fashion designers. Elda de la Rosa, Nade Baer, Gibeon Tolbert and Miriam Cecilia were each given a toy or game brand as inspiration to create a fashion forward look from head to toe. These designers gladly accepted the challenge given to them by ZZAZZ
Productions, the first playCHIC fashion show producer. Led by the always stylish Tracey Tarantino and her team, the designers stepped up their creativity game to accomplish something that has never been done before. The concept of merging the fashion and gaming world was an
exciting one that ZZAZZ was proud to be a part of. This inaugural event hopes to continue in the future thanks to the positive reactions from the designers, toy/game brands, and the audience. Girls play dress up. Women playCHIC. PlayCHIC fashion concepts were created based on these brands: Settlers of Catan®, one of the fastest-selling board games in the U.S.
with a die-hard cult following of fans including Mark Zuckerberg (founder of Facebook) and Reid Hoffman (co-founder of LinkedIn); Moshi Monsters®, virtual pet monsters that have already been adopted online by over 65 million kids worldwide!; Word Winder® The Game of Winding Words is a new brand of board games, mobile apps, puzzle books and more
created by the world's most syndicated puzzle creator; Annie®, the beloved musical based on the Tribune comic strip, Little Orphan Annie is back on Broadway with an all-new, star-studded production premiering at the famous Palace Theatre in Times Square on November 8th; Brenda Starr, Reporter™, one of the most popular comic strip
characters-turned-dolls of all time, and a woman noted for being a pioneering fashionista; and Pony Royale®, the award-winning fashion doll line featuring 12 beautiful princess ponies, that delivers open- ended creative play with interchangeable manes, tails and mix-and-match fashions. Tarantino said,“This is the best of the toy inventors and design fields merging and Chicago was the perfect place to stage it! Bravo, Chicago designers!!! They wowed the toy & game industry in great style!” Only in Chicago, baby! Congrats to Tracey, ZZAZZ and all of our talented local designers!!!

I know there are a lot of snowbirds from Chicago who either live in or visit Miami on a regular basis so I thought this Art Basel story about an artist you should know might be of interest!
Miami's cultural leaders gathered at the JW Marriott Hotel Miami on December 3rd for a tribute to the city's arts pioneers who helped transform the community into a global art
destination. “Miami Says ART – The Retrospective” by artist Martin Kreloff attracted more than 100 art lovers to the opening reception, ushering in Art Basel Week. According to
the Miami Herald's visual arts editor Jane Wooldridge, “Art Week Miami has kicked off as perhaps it always should but never has, with a tribute to the city’s arts-loving pioneers. It was something of an Old Home Week scene
Monday morning at the JW Marriott Hotel on Brickell Avenue when a few hundred of Miami’s arts pioneers and current cognoscenti turned up for a reprise of Martin
Kreloff’s 1976 Miami Says Art project. Kreloff first sprang onto the American art scene in Miami in 1976, when he captured Miami’s arts leaders in a pioneering collective portrait series
expressing the passion and emotion of the word “ART” for his first museum solo show “MIAMI SAYS ART.” Many of his paintings found their way into the personal collections of some of the
nation’s most accomplished celebrities including Cary Grant, Joan Crawford, Ann Miller, Esther Williams and Gloria Vanderbilt. His work is held by the New York Museum of Modern Art and
dozens of other prestigious galleries, museums and corporate collections across America. I asked this popular artist what his inspiration is and he said, “My art is inspired by
Warhol, Lichtenstein, Matisse, Disney Studios, Al Hirschfeld and Japanese woodblock prints of the 1800’s; the color of the cities I have lived in…yellows don’t work as well in SF as they do in
Miami or LA but reds glow in SF because of their lavender sky; the people I create portraits for…when I unveil their portrait, and watch them cry, it is a shared moment of bliss. I usually hear ‘you captured my
soul.’ Most of the people I have painted have become my lifelong friends as creating a portrait is such an intimate process for both of us. These are my influences.” City of Miami
Mayor Tomas Regalado presented a proclamation, declaring it “Miami Says Art Week.” Guests included Adolfo Henriques (Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council chairman) and
Monty Trainer (executive director and president of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival); Arnold Lehman (director of the Brooklyn Museum); Howard Herring (New World Symphony CEO); John Richard (president/CEO of the Arsht Center); Dr. Carol Damian (director of the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum at
FIU); and Cathy Leff (Wolfsonian director). Chicagoans visiting this world class art fair included MCA curator Naomi Beckwith, Marilyn and Larry Fields, Eric McKissack, Gary Metzner, Dr. Walter Massey and Watch 305’s Bob “Hatman” Mills. The exhibition also launched
“Miami Says Art-2,” a new cultural time capsule honoring Miami’s New World School of the Arts’ 25th anniversary. “This is a terrific opportunity for our students,” says Dennis Edwards, Foundation Board Chair for the NWSA. “We
are honored to be representing the future in this time-capsule honoring Miami's arts leaders.” (Photos courtesy of Hector Gabino.) Love this town, love its art and love its food! We especially love Sunday brunch at La Piaggia! LOL! (Here’s a shout out to owner Robert Pascal and manager Alex Maufroy – hope to see you soon!)

The A Silver Lining Foundation Auxiliary Board’s 5th Annual Naughty or Nice Holiday Party will be held at Frontier Chicago (located at 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave.) on Thursday, December 13th, from 7 to 10 p.m. The night will include a silent auction (that will include two roundtrip
tickets to anywhere in the U.S. on United Airlines!), door prizes, a live DJ, cocktails and delicious appetizers courtesy of Frontier Chicago. Proceeds will benefit the organization’s “Buy a Mom a Mammogram” program. Tickets are $55 and will be available at the door as well as online here! (For more info about this wonderful organization, please visit www.asilverliningfoundation.org.

Another fabulous “Naughty or Nice” party (this seems to be a popular title!) will be hosted by Marco Foster on Friday, December 21st, from 9 to 11 p.m. at The Underground, located at 56 W. Illinois. Tickets are only $20 (also available at the door) and benefit the American Brain Tumor Association. The invite says “wear white if you’ve been nice and red if you’ve been naughty!” LOL! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

For the first time in Chicago, all aspects of Thai culture united in celebration of National Father’s Day – an important day in Thai culture – on Wednesday, December 5th, at NV Penthouse Lounge. More than 280 guests attended this event with celebrity host Chef Arun, whose
acclaimed restaurant (Arun’s Thai Restaurant) has been voted the best Thai restaurant in the country. Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit was on hand for hostess duties and renowned photographer Amie Hana (event host with Ladies Night Chicago) took photos of guests in authentic Thai costumes. There
was classical Thai dancing, cooking demos from restaurants that included Dharma Garden,
Jitlada Thai House, TAC Quick and Lovely Thai and live performances by PopRockJazz Band, Jovie Calma and DJ Corey Sanford. Guests included Benjamin Cottrell, Laura Silva, Aya
Jackson, Gloria Santiago, Jovie Calma, Shari Duffy, Mark Roscoe, Shannon Ihrke, Joe Paciorek, Sophie Williams, Michael Jewula, Sandy Smith-Doghmi, Meiling Jin, Sesamir Yearby and Dan Hahn among others. (To view more pics from this fun event, please click here!)

Congrats (and good news!) is in order for the family of Coach Lovie Smith: MaryAnne and Lovie are Glam-Parents, thanks to son Matt and daughter-in-law Kathleen’s new bundle of joy! Jack Smith was born on 11/29 and is already stealing hearts wherever he goes! Congrats to ALL and welcome to the world, Baby Jack!

More congrats for a beloved friend, Joe Aguilera! We all remember him from his time at the Elysian but now he has a big, brand new job as hotel manager of the Langham Chicago, a 316-room luxury hotel slated to open in the summer of 2013 at 330 N. Wabash Ave. We can’t wait to visit and celebrate this wonderful new addition to Chicago’s hot hotel scene! Congrats Joe and see YOU soon!

Happy 30th anniversary to Lily’s Talent Agency! They joined forces with The Foundation of Artist Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.) and The Drake Hotel for this big celebration that was held in the Palm Court recently. Guests from Chicago’s advertising community, casting
agencies, models and talent attended this event that raised funds for struggling artists’ scholarships. Sadly, this was the last event covered by our beloved Steve Starr…hope you were able to make it to his celebration on 12/12/12.

Founder of Imerman Angels and cancer survivor Jonny Imerman is receiving another much deserved honor. Produced by James Payton and Icon Productions, “An Evening Honoring Jonny Imerman” will be held on Friday, December 14th, from 7 to
10 p.m. at the Allerton Hotel’s Tip-Top-Tap Ballroom, located at 701 N. Michigan Ave. Jonny’s non-profit organization matches anyone seeking cancer support with a Mentor Angel. Mentor Angels are cancer survivors (or survivors’ caregivers) who are the same age, gender, and who, most importantly, have experienced the same type of cancer as the person they are matched with to offer walking,
talking, living proof and inspiration that cancer can be beaten. The event will feature a special program highlighting Jonny’s service to the cancer community, a guest appearance by football legend Mike Ditka,
hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and live entertainment. Tickets are $50 each ($60 at the door) with all proceeds benefiting Imerman Angels. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

Don’t forget the fabulous Randolph Street Market’s Holiday Market will be at Plumber’s Hall, located at 1340 W. Washington, on Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th. You’ll find a great mix of vintage, antique and modern gift ideas plus FREE gift wrapping! I’ll see you there! (For ticket and more info, please click here!)

A big shout out and thank you to WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” for having me back on their fabulous show on December 7th. Co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman, along with executive producer Rob Morhaim, Aly Bockler and Art “Chat Daddy” Sims couldn’t make guests feel more at home! Watch for a brand new set coming soon! I will be returning to the show on 12/28 so I hope you'll tune in for my top NYE party suggestions! And, if you missed my segment, tune in below!

http://assets.delvenetworks.com/player/loader.swf

Have a great week and I hope to see you here again next week! If you are planning any holiday shopping, please check out some of my ideas on GlossedandFound.com! (Thanks to G&F Creative/Editorial Director Graham Kostic for including me!) Ho Ho Ho!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift, check out Sotheby’s auction house in New York! They will be offering the iconic “Casablanca” piano played by Sam in the Paris flashback scene at the La Belle Aurore café on December 14th. While Sam (actor Dooley Wilson) sings “As Time Goes By,” Rick and Ilsa lean on the piano drinking champagne and outside, Paris prepares for the imminent arrival of the German army. Clinking glasses with Ilsa, Rick utters the now famous line: “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid.” The estimate for this lot
(#1) is $800K to $1.2 million…that’s a lotta piano! (For more info, click here!)

P.P.S. Last but not least, it was a very “Bo” Christmas for the Obamas this year! Their Christmas card featured their loveable, lucky dog romping in the snow…awwwwww! 🙂

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

Tagged as 3.1 Phillip Lim, 3X Ranch, A Hudson Holiday, A Silver Lining Foundation, Adolfo Henriques, AJ Johnson, Alex Maufroy, Allerton Hotel Tip-Top-Tap Ballroom, Allie Harris, Alonzo Stallings, Aly Bockler, American Brain Tumor Association, Amie Hana, Amy Carr, An Evening with Jonny Imerman, Ann Miller, Annie, Arnold Lehman, Art "Chat Daddy" Sims, Art Basel, Aya Jackson, Bill Zwecker, Bo Obama, Bob “Hatman” Mills, Bob Loquercio Autogroup, Brandon Marshall, Brenda Starr, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Cary Grant, Cathy Leff, Catie Keogh, Cee Lo Green, Chef Arun, Chef Hsing Chen, Chicago Men of the Year, Chicago Toy and Game Group Week, Christopher McLoughlin, Coach Lovie Smith, Dan Hahn, Dan Uslan, Dennis Edwards, Dharma Garden, Diane Donald, DJ Corey Sanford. Benjamin Cottrell, Dooley Wilson, Doug Psaltis, Dr. Carol Damian, Dr. Walter Massey, Drake Hotel, elda de la rosa, Elysian Hotel, Eric McKissack, Erica Strama, Essentia, Esther Williams, Frontier Chicago, Gary Metzner, Gloria Santiago, Gloria Vanderbilt, GlossedandFound.com, Gobeon Tolbert, Gordon Beckham, Graham Kostic, Grant Achatz, Harley Pasternak, Hector Gabino, Hillshire Brands, House of Blues, Howard Herring, Icon Productions, Imerman Angels, Jack Smith, Jamar Rogers, James Payton, Jane Wooldridge, Janet Davies, Jeanne Sparrow, Jeff Garlin, Jennifer Hudson, Jerry Azumah, Jill Katz, Jitlada Thai House, JKLS PR, Joan Crawford, Joe Aguilera, Joe Paciorek, Joffrey Ballet, Jon Harris, Jonny Imerman, Jovie Calma, JP Anderson, Julia Hudson, Julian D. King Gift Foundation, JW Marriott Hotel Miami, Kathleen Smith, Kerry Wood, La Piaggia, Ladies Night Chicago, Langham Chicago, Larry Fields, Larry Wert, Larsa Pippen, Laura Schwartz, Laura Silva, Les Coney, Lily’s Talent Agency, Lindsay Avner, Luis Gomez, Luke Donald, Marco Foster, Marcus Riley, Marilyn Fields, Marisa Buchheit, Mark Giangreco, Mark Roscoe, Mark Silverman, Martha Melman, Martin Krelogg, MaryAnne Smith, Matt Smith, Meiling Jin, Melissa Forman, Men’s Journal, Men’s Journal Gear Lab Pop-Up Shop, Miami Herald, Miami Says ART – The Retrospective, Michael Jewula, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike Ditka, Miriam Cecilia, Moet Hennessy, Monty Trainer, Morgan Holt, Moshi Monsters, Motorola Mobility Foundation, Nade Maer, Naomi Beckwith, National Father’s Day, Naughty or Nice Holiday Party, New World School of the Arts, NV Penthouse Lounge, Paul McGee, playCHIC, Pony Royale, PopRockJazz Band, President Obama, Randolph Street Market Holiday Market, Rob Johnson, Rob Morhaim, Robert Pascal, RPM Italian, Ryan Baker, Sandy Smith-Doghmi, Sarah Wood, Scottie Pippen, Sesamir Yearby, Settlers of Catan, Shannon Ihrke, Shari Duffy, Shelly Menaker, Sophie Williams, Sotheby’s Casablanca, Stacy Johnson, Stefan Holt, Steve Starr, TAC Quick and Lovely Thai, Tarrah Cooper, The Foundation of Artist Mentored in Entertainment, The Underground, The Voice, Thomas Dent, Tomas Regalado, TR Napa Valley, Tracey Tarantino, United Airlines, WCIU, Weight Watchers, Word Winder, You & Me in the Morning, ZZAZZ Productions

December 5, 2012 · 3:04 pm

CHICAGO WELCOMES BURBERRY AND DEL FRISCO’S WITH PACKED PARTIES!

…PLUS THE SPLENDOR OF IMPERIAL RUSSIA AT BOTANIC GARDEN, NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY SUGGESTIONS, FINE ARTS BUILDING’S HOLIDAY PARTY, INDIE FILM FEST, BOYS & GIRLS CLUB GALA, CAMP COSMETICS CAMPAIGN HITS THE MAGS AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was going to be a BIG night with two hotly anticipated grand openings on November 29th with Burberry and the hot new restaurant on Oak Street, Del Frisco’s. Let’s start with the former: I believe Burberry’s “Art of the
Trench” campaign began back in October…at least this was when I was contacted. I know of more than 50 local Chicagoans who were photographed for this photo exhibition intended to herald and publicize the opening of
Burberry’s largest store in the country outside of New York. The email read, “This autumn, Burberry is launching its new flagship store on Michigan Avenue and celebrating Burberry in Chicago by hosting an event on Thursday, November 29th,
with Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey. This event will be a local celebration of our global platform, www.artofthetrench.com, and will feature images of influential Chicagoans on Burberry's digital platform as well as in a physical incarnation of the luxury brand's
site in store. We would like to invite you to participate in this project and photograph you for Art of the Trench.” HELL YES! COUNT ME IN! It was a fun photo shoot with a photographer who I already knew, loved and admired – Amy Creyer. Her popular
website www.ChicagoStreetStyle.com is a must read and her work has appeared on The Huffington Post, in W Magazine and on MTV. It was a rainy day but it made the atmosphere for the shoot even better on film so I
was happy even if the weather was less than perfect. Now that I’ve seen all of the images (see them here), the one thing that stands out (besides the people, of course) is how gorgeous our city is. From the back alleys to the side streets to the historical monuments, every photo looks like a piece of artwork with Chicago as the star. Everyone looked so
powerful in their photos too…most were not the usual smiley images that we Midwesterners are so fond of but rather true portraits of people in the “city that works.” I’m so proud to be a part of this campaign but moreover, just so proud of our city and all of the people
in it. They were determined to keep this campaign top secret until the week of the grand opening and they succeeded. It's fun and exciting to see all of the images popping up around town now. The opening was one of the splashiest I’ve seen
in a loooooonnnnng time! The new five-story space was brought to life with a distinctly British mix of music with guests experiencing an immersive physical and digital experience.
Model/performers emulated the sound of rain throughout the space as images were projected onto the walls of every floor. Live music for the evening was provided by British musician Carl Barat and his band played their little hearts out on the main floor with the performance projected on all
of the levels so guests wouldn’t miss a moment. DJ Matt Roan, an “Art of the Trench” subject, followed with more hot music. Opened earlier this month, the Chicago flagship store (which
purportedly cost $10 million to build) will blur the brand’s physical and digital worlds through the Burberry Retail Theatre concept which will enable broadcast of live events and global synchronized content that can be played on the store’s interior digital screens. Additionally, the store offers the first physical representation of Burberry Bespoke, a concept that allows customers to create their own trench coat by selecting the
cut, the fabric, the color and then navigating through options that include bronze-studded sleeves, bridle leather cuff straps, mink linings and shearling collars. Step by step, the screen
assembles the virtual trench coat as specified and the real-life version arrives in four to eight weeks from Burberry's factory in Yorkshire, England (though the leather trenches are dispatched from Italy). The
tag displays a special limited-edition number, plus a designation in block letters: “Bespoke.” (Prices for the custom trenches start at about $1,800; luxe features such as leather
sleeves and mink linings run the price up as high as $8,800. Trench coats from Burberry's off-the-rack collections start at about $700 and range up to about $6,000.) The store also
offers the first Burberry beauty in-store consultation counter in America – this is what you call one stop shopping, my friends! This exciting evening ended with a striking display of lights
and digital projections amidst a sea of confetti that illuminated the iconic Burberry check on the store’s exterior façade, officially switching on the new Michigan Avenue site! In celebration of the
opening, the Burberry Foundation is partnering with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to create $2.2 million in funding to support the Chicago Hive Learning Network. This new funding,
$1.7 million and $500,000 from the MacArthur and Burberry foundations respectively, will be used to inspire young people in Chicago, creating new innovative educational experiences designed to nurture their skills and creative confidence. (To see more party pics, please click here!) Welcome to Chicago, BURBERRY!!!

Following this sensory overload, we headed to 58 E. Oak St. for the Del Frisco’s grand opening. Cars were backed up down the street as the valets scrambled to keep pace
with the arriving guests. Located in the old Esquire Theater space, this multi-level dining experience seats over 500! With an 11,000-bottle wine cellar, it was a marvel to behold and guests could see it from every floor since it “floated” in the center of the building. Glistening
bars, sparkling oversized crystal light fixtures, friendly service and dark wood appointments created an atmosphere that I’m sure will become a magnet for locals and out-of-towners alike. Chef de Cuisine
Anthony Reyes’ extensive menu includes their famous steaks and chops plus a “Wagyu Longbone,” which is a 32-ounce ribeye for $89. Other dishes include bacon-wrapped scallops, crab cakes, cheesesteak eggrolls and a gorgeous “Shellfish Plateau” for two
for $75. On this night, the seafood bar was a sight to see with enormous ice sculptures flanking each end of a table that was overflowing with every sort of shellfish imaginable! I saw a lot of familiar, happy faces on this night and I’m pretty sure we will all be meeting there
again very soon! Del Frisco’s donated $10K to its charity, the Big Shoulders Fund, which provides support to
the Catholic schools in the neediest areas of inner-city Chicago. All this and charitable, too…can’t beat this combo! General Manager Troy Smith and Private Dining Coordinator Anna Saavedra must be so excited! (Open for lunch and dinner – call 312.888.2499 to make a reservation!)

The Splendor of Imperial Russia was the theme for the Woman’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society’s recent All Aboard! party. Co-chaired by Gail Miller and Alicia
Crawford, the evening began with a cocktail reception complemented by a caviar and vodka bar (my kind of party!) decorated with ice sculptures. The Russian mood was further enhanced by a performance
by Golosa, a Russian singing ensemble. Guests dined in sumptuous recreations of three Imperial palaces including The Catherine Palace; Peterhof, where Peter the Great exhibited
his love of fountains and all things gold; and The Winter Palace, that featured rich décor and the shimmer of ice. (Dramatic décor by Jody, Inc.) Set in and among the garden’s 10,000-square-foot indoor winter exhibition of garden scale trains, winter flora and 80
iconic Chicago landmarks, the evening set the tone for celebrating the season. Jewell Events Catering prepared a delicious menu which featured such passed
hors d’oeuvres as truffled golden beet and goat cheese on cracker bread, petit crepe beggars’ purses with wild mushrooms, very petite filet of salmon, a
pear and walnut sandwich and truffled pate on brioche toast. The Woman’s Board is in its second year of “Growing The Future,” a $1 million pledge to the Chicago Botanic Garden. All
Aboard! raised $300,000 to support the Garden’s Green Youth Farm and Windy City Harvest community gardening programs. For more info about Garden programs and events, please call 847.835.5440 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org. (Photos by Robin Carlson.)

I hope you can join me and NBC’s Marcus Riley when we co-host the New Year’s Eve Countdown for Chicago Empire 2013 on December 31st, beginning at 9 p.m. at Untitled, located at 111 W. Kinzie. Produced by Platinum Events, this black tie optional event will feature a performance by The Gold Coast All Stars with Chicago native turned LA superstar Mr. Robotic jamming out hits, while Platinum DJs Flaco and Wags spin all night! VH1 reality star and NY socialite “JRL” (Justin Ross Lee) and
MORE will also be there! Toast in the New Year with six rooms, a premium open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres and a midnight toast! If you know Platinum Events’ Justin Jacobson, you know this will be one fantastic party! (For tickets and more info on packages, please click here!

Cheeky Chicago and Vertigo Sky Lounge, located at 2 W. Erie, will be toasting the New Year with a Winter White Party. Beginning at 9 p.m., enjoy appetizers from Argent raw bar and specialty cocktails while dancing to the high energy sounds of DJ Mister Wolf on Chicago’s only year-round rooftop patio! Countdown the seconds until 2013 on a 12-foot screen while enjoying festive party favors, passed late night bites and a complimentary toast at midnight! (Tickets range from $125 to $200; to purchase tickets and obtain more info, please click here!)

“An Evening of Opulence” is the theme for a grand New Year’s Eve party presented by Genuine Entertainment and PR maven Monika Dixon at N9NE Steakhouse, located at 440 W. Randolph St. Beginning at 9 p.m., the evening will include an open bar, award-winning food and a decadent dessert buffet. DJ Madrid will keep the crowd fueled for fun! For tickets and more info, please click here!

If you haven’t had a chance to visit the Fine Arts Building during their holiday celebration (A Night at the Fine Arts Building), then you’ve been missing out on a lot of fun and holiday cheer! On Friday, December 14th, from 5 to 10 p.m. at 410 S. Michigan Ave., this legendary building’s 10 floors will be
teeming with entertainment by the artists of the building as well as from the Flat Iron Building and will include tap dancing, symphony, spoken word, opera, jazz, ballet, theatre recitals, chamber music, modern music, visual arts and so much more! (For more info, please visit www.nightatthefab.com.)

The Indie Incubator Film Fest, billed as a “night of kick-ass short films from regional filmmakers,” was recently held at Mother’s on Division. I was thrilled to be there to support two of
the coolest filmmakers I know, partners Josh Orr and Eric Gulbrandsen. Their short film series features three- to five-minute genre films and are not to be missed! Inspired in part by Rod Serling’s “Twilight Zone” series, their two latest segments are chilling and creative. On
this night, more than 23 films were screened, with Josh and Eric WINNING for “Best Scare” for their first film, “Terms and Conditions.” Follow them on Facebook here. I can’t wait to see their NEXT film! Congrats and good luck, Josh and Eric!

The 35th annual Boys & Girls Club Gala was held at the Union League Club on November 3rd. These clubs provide 11,000 kids in Chicago’s inner city with academic, arts and athletic afterschool programs. Over the past 35 years, the clubs
have raised more than $3 million and benefitted more than 250,000 kids ages 6 to 18. This year’s gala, which raised $200,000, included silent and live auctions, a sit-down dinner and dancing to the Al Sophia Orchestra. Congrats! (Photos by Steve Starr, RIP.)

I’m so excited about the new ad campaign for CAMP Cosmetics, which is hitting magazines around town this month. I love seeing the ad in TCW Magazine as well as Michigan Avenue
Magazine! Darling CAMP founder Michael Perich also has a great article about his philosophy and company on page 35 (TCW Mag) so don’t miss it! I’m thrilled to be a part of this excitement with
my new Candid Candace lipstick! I hope you like it and I hope you buy it…it’s the shade I’ve always looked for and could never find! The whole CAMP line, which includes skin care and everything else you can think of, is fantastic, too! Color me coral! You can see the video from the shoot below! (Campaign photo by Amie Hana.)

http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1

And speaking of TCW Magazine, I’m thrilled to announce our online partnership which will include all of my “Candid Candace Chicago” shows on Watch312.com! So, make sure to check it out online here as well as on Watch312.com!

A big GET WELL WISH goes out to beloved photog Mila Samokhina. A recent health scare landed her in Skokie Hospital but she is back home now in the loving care of handsome husband, Arthur, and her daughter, glam-girl-about town Elena Samokhina. Love and get well soon – we all miss you! (Here is a photo of Mila being celebrated on the cover of Reclama! Much deserved, Mila Pila!)

I hope you’re all in the holiday spirit right about now and I hope you will send me some images of your festive décor so I can add them next week! Here’s a link to mine as well as this link to Debi Lilly’s beautiful A Perfect Event E-Magazine, which is filled with the most fabulous images, recipes and décor ideas! Congrats, Debi – love this and YOU! Have a great week and I hope to see you back here soon!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you haven’t bought your tickets yet for this wonderful Memorial Celebration of the life and legacy of Steve Starr on 12/12/12, please do it soon! The space at the John B. Murphy Auditorium only holds 325 and you won’t want to miss this! Beginning at 6 p.m. for a VIP reception, the evening will include entertainment, Steve’s remarkable “Face of the News” photo exhibition, cocktails, food from our town’s top restaurants and so much more! There will be some wonderful surprises, too! (For tickets and more info, please click here!

P.P.S. Jennifer Hudson and Jamar Rogers of “The Voice” were at the House of Blues last night for Michigan Avenue Magazine’s second cover party for Jennifer! Stay tuned for my “Candid Candace Chicago” coverage coming next week on Watch312.com!

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Tagged as A Night at the Fine Arts Building, A Perfect Event E-Magazine, Al Sophia Orchestra, Alicia Crawford, Amie Hana, Amy Creyer, An Evening of Opulence, Anna Saavedra, Anthony Reyes, Argent, Art of the Trench, Arthur Samokhina, Big Shoulders Fund, Boys & Girls Club Gala, Burberry, Burberry Bespoke, Burberry Foundation, Burberry Retail Theatre, CAMP Cosmetics, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Candid Candace Chicago, Carl Barat, Catherine Place, Cheeky Chicago, Chicago, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago Empire 2013, Chicago Hive Learning Network, Christopher Bailey, Debi Lilly, Del Frisco’s, DJ Madrid, DJ Matt Roan, DJ Mister Wolf, Elena Samokhina, Eric Gulbrandsen, Face of the News, Flaco, Gail Miller, Genuine Entertainment, Golosa, Green Youth Farm, Indie Film Fest, Jewell Events Catering, Jody Inc., John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Josh Orr, JRL, Justin Jacobson, Justin Ross Lee, Marcus Riley, Memorial Celebration of the life and legacy of Steve Starr, Michael Perich, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Monika Dixon, Mother’s, Mr. Robotic, N9NE Steakhouse, Peter the Great, Peterhof, Platinum Events, Reclama, Robin Carlson, Rod Sterling’s Twilight Zone, Splendor of Imperial Russia, Steve Starr, TCW Magazine, Terms and Conditions, The Gold Coast All Stars, The Libertines, Troy Smith, Union League Club, Untitled, Vertigo Sky Lounge, Wags, Watch312.com, Windy City Harvest, Winter Palace, Winter White Party, Woman’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society

November 9, 2012 · 10:36 am

DOMINIC DIFRISCO: BELOVED HUMAN RIGHTS CHAMPION GETS HIS “WAY”

…PLUS MCGRATH’S GRAND OPENING, CHICAGO LOOP ALLIANCE GALA, COLUMBIAN BALL CELEBRATES OLD AND NEW, TCW MAG’S HALLOWEEN BASH, CHEF ART “TARTS IT UP” FOR ERIC, STEVE STARR’S “FACE OF THE NEWS,” WCIU’S “YOU & ME IN THE MORNING” IS MOVIN’ ON UP, A PERFECT HOLIDAY E-MAG PLUS NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was a great day in Chicago on Saturday, November 3rd when beloved Dominic DiFrisco, a champion of Italian-Americans and a cultural torch bearer, was honored with his own street! More than 60 fans, friends and family congregated at the corner of Astor and Schiller to join Dominic, his wife Carol, daughter and son-in-law Nina and Bob Mariano, and Alderwoman Michelle Smith as she unveiled “Honorary Dominic DiFrisco Way.” The Alderman read Dominic's extensive bio and cited how he's been a bridge builder in Chicago for not only the Italian-American community but for all ethnic and religious communities. Dominic is president emeritus of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans – an organization founded on the principle that Italian-Americans and Americans from all backgrounds should be able to preserve their heritage – while also pursuing the American Dream without prejudice. Dominic spoke eloquently about his goal for Chicago to be a beautiful mosaic and not a melting pot. Monsignor Kenneth Velo and Father George Clements were on hand and spoke of Dominic's many social and civic efforts while his grandson Pasquale Gianni brought the crowd to tears with his tribute. The party moved on to Gene & Georgetti’s for a two-hour love fest and Italian feast! Friends on the scene included Marion and Tony Durpetti, Terry “Whitey” Pearson, Jamie and Tess Gabala, Mark O’Malley and so many others. It was a fitting day for a man who makes a difference. Love and congrats, Dominic…keep up the GREAT work! (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

McGrath Acura of Downtown Chicago’s by-invite-only grand opening on October 24th brought out hundreds of fans and friends to this magnificent dealership, seven years in the making. You could see this 50,000-square-foot space for miles before you actually arrived thanks to the ginormous rotating Hollywood lights out front! Inside, it was so beautiful that even if it wasn’t a dealership, it could easily double as an event space or grand art gallery; in fact, the first event held there was for the Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails,” which McGrath Acura co-owner Kristina McGrath also co-chaired. During the festivities, speed painter Elliott From of Artbeat Live created an impressionist painting of the dealership that was presented to the family. Co-owner Mike McGrath’s sons, Kevin and Mike Jr., were on hand with their families as well as glam wife Kristina and her equally gorgeous twin sister, Korinna Isselhardt. Hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Dan Uslan and produced by Platinum Events, the grand opening was planned as a way to thank their loyal customers that have been doing business with the family’s six other dealerships over the course of the past 62 years. Key executives from Honda were in attendance as well as McGrath Executive VP of Sales John Mendel and GM of Westmont McGrath Acura Ken Girard. Glen Missner (Missner Group) built the dealership, the first of its kind in the country using the newest designs from Acura and state-of-the-art technology. Michigan Avenue Magazine president and publisher Dan Uslan paid tribute to the McGraths in a moving speech which highlighted their importance in the community. He said, “Trust takes many forms. Few people can say they unilaterally trust someone. The same person you trust in business is not necessarily the same one you'd trust with your money, spouse or reputation. But the McGraths are those rare people that you can feel good about trusting in every way. They've created a personal brand for themselves and business that's enviable. Their reward has been loyalty amongst their friends, business partners and customers. Others want to do right by them simply because the McGraths are so genuine.” Located at 1301 N. Elston and situated on the river, the dealership has hundreds of new Acuras, pre-owned and certified vehicles, many of which were artfully displayed on this special night. Guests seen at this gala celebration included Justin Jacobson, Paul Iacono, Margaret O’Connor, Nina Mariano, Kerry Bowler, Jennifer Sutton, Heather Farley Ingram, Toni and Rick Canada, DC Crenshaw, Larry Wert, Marco Foster, Tonya and Adam Stevenson, Grace and Zack Napolitano, Toni and Ed Mallof and Lynn and John McMahan among many others. Congrats to the McGraths and their dedicated employees! When I do the math, I always choose McGrath!

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The Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation welcomed more than 425 guests, including prominent business and civic leaders, for its Eighth Annual Gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on Friday, October 12th. Guests at the elegant black tie event enjoyed a cocktail reception with live music by Oncore Productions, followed by a lavish dinner catered by Radisson Blu. Special remarks were given by Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) chairman Martin Stern, who welcomed guests and thanked them for continued support of the Foundation’s programs, which include the award-winning Pop-Up Art Loop storefront gallery initiative and annual Art Loop public art commission. The fun continued into the evening as guests filled the dance floor and enjoyed live music by Hey Jimmy! The gala co-chairs were Turner Construction Company business development manager Bill Burfeind, Chicago magazine publisher and GM Rich Gamble, Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University chief development officer Judie Moore Green and Merchandise Mart Properties VP and GM Bill Noonan. Additional distinguished guests at the event included 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, Chicago Department of Transportation commissioner Gabe Klein, Broadway in Chicago president and CLA vice-chairman Lou Raizin, Choose Chicago VP for cultural tourism and neighborhoods Melissa Cherry, Pressure Washing Systems president and founder Bill Mologousis, and CLA interim executive director Laura Jones. Lead sponsors for the Eighth Annual Gala were Presenting Sponsor Pressure Washing Systems and Silver Table Patrons BMO Harris Bank, Columbia College Chicago, Gensler, theWit Hotel and Turner Construction Company. The event raised more than $175,000 in support of the Foundation and its ambitious efforts to develop and promote artistic, cultural and public events wit
hin the Loop. (And speaking of the Chicago Loop Alliance, huge thanks to Philip Barash (CLA Director of Marketing and Development) for choosing me to record the holiday greetings for its “Lightscape” installations on State Street! Listen for a familiar voice on that great street beginning November 24th ! 🙂 Ho! Ho! Ho! (To view more images, please click here!)

On Saturday, October 20th, the Museum of Science and Industry held its 32nd annual Columbian Ball. From the fascination of the famed White City of 1893 to groundbreaking, high-tech exhibits, this year’s ball celebrated the spirit of innovation that has always been within the museum’s walls and part of its rich history. Nearly 900 guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dancing co-chaired by Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin and Christina and Ron Gidwitz. Mayor Rahm Emanuel was also an honorary co-chair of the ball. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the co-chairs and – a special addition this year – by the Anybot QB2, a remote-controlled robot. The décor took guests back to the Columbian Exposition with lights strung between the museum’s balcony levels and historic images of the museum from the fair projected on the massive marble walls, giving the rotunda a spectacular glow. An acrobatic artist spun and twirled from a sheet of silk hanging from the ceiling. The museum’s Science Storms exhibit was open throughout the evening for guests to enjoy. In the museum’s Rosenwald Court, novelties from the fair (including two large paintings and a six-foot-tall vase) from the museum’s collection were displayed. A virtual tour took guests through the fair’s grounds and various buildings. On the adjacent side, technology ruled with current and future innovations featured. Guests interacted with robots (like the Anybot QB2 and NAO) and since spray paint was invented during the fair, guests paid homage to the invention by expressing their creativity on a “digital graffiti” wall. The party then adjourned to a heated tent on the museum’s front lawn (courtesy of Party Time Productions) with event décor by Heffernan Morgan Ronsley. Tables were adorned with camellias and white roses with historic images of the Museum projected on white, fabric sculptures. A live auction raised $242K, which included eight exciting packages including a deep sea diving expedition in Hawaii with world-renowned marine engineer, Graham Hawkes. The ball raised more than $2.2 million to support the museum’s vision. The evening ended with entertainment provided by the Steve Biossat Orchestra. For more info about the Museum and upcoming events, please visit www.msichicago.org. (Photos by Bob Carl and JB Spector…click here for more pics!)

Can you imagine how much fun a costume party would be if you saw Grant DePorter dressed as Harry Caray, Sherren Leigh as a witch, Corri McFadden as a skeleton, Bob Graham as the Joker, Cindy Burns as Cleopatra, Shari Duffy as a Hooters girl and Paul Iacono as a mime?! Well, this was exactly the scene for TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Party at the Cultural Center on October 30th. The “Pumpkins on Parade” silent auction was a huge hit with highly creative offerings from some of our town’s VIP’s including Barbara Bates, author Brad Thor, Grant DePorter, artist Rosemary Fanti, Cassandra Gaddo, Greg Hyder, Mellody Hobson, Sherren, RJ Melman, Corri McFadden, Andrea Metcalf, Roe Conn and Richard Roeper, Chef Devon Quinn, Hedy Ratner, Laura Sage, Tim Smithe, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Mario Tricoci, Rich Varnes, Maria Wynne and moi. (My funkins were courtesy of my uber creative girlfriend, Tissy Eggleston!) Catered by Paramount Events, the evening also included delicious mini white cheddar cheese/fig jam sandwiches, lobster salad on cornbread and seared tuna on a wonton crisps. Comfort food stations included hot dogs, BLT’s and meatloaf sandwiches and the “skull” cake donated by TipsyCake was a crowd favorite. More than 200 guests attended this spooky fundraiser that raised a little over $45,000 for the Today's Chicago Woman Foundation 501(c)(3) charity and its 2012 30 For 30 Campaign. TCWF will give grants to 30 area charities that assist women and children in need. (The 30 charities will be featured in the 2012 December issue.) Spooktacular guests included Cece Gonzalez and Melinda Joseph, Kathleen Henson, Carrie and Harry Hightman, Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steven Stryker, Maria Zec, Erica Strama, Ryan Beshel, Jason Erkes, Holly Hughes, Amanda Puck, Rich Varnes, WGN’s Erin McElroy, Bill Shipley and Frank Holland among many others. (Check out more fun pics here!)

And speaking of Halloween, there is nothing like a party in Old Town and, particularly, there is nothing quite like a party at Lucy Wojtas and Steve Weiss’ house! Their home is the talk of the town and it’s decorated inside and outside for Halloween, much to the delight of their constant parade of trick-or-treaters! For the party, hostess Lucy was dressed as Elvis…complete with a white cape, oversized sunglasses, a huge “diamond” ring and, of course, a microphone that never left her hand. She stayed in character for the entire evening and made the night so special for everyone, especially her adoring husband. Her sister, Christina Wojtas, came dressed as a little devil, my stepson, Charley Jordan, made a mean looking Dexter (complete with bloody face, garden boots and a BIG knife) and John Waterfield was unrecognizable as a six-foot Sasquatch. Seen on this boo-tiful night were author Shirley Baugher and husband Norman, Carolyn Armenetta-Davis, Lucy and Dan Baldwin, Shannon Waterfield, Michael Warnick, Todd Humes, Alan Naragon, Karen Pfendler, David Pfendler and Stefani Turken, Mary O’Neill, Karen Stephenson, Chloe Mae Loop and so many more! Thanks so much to the Weisses for keeping our ‘hood so festive! (Click here to view more pics!)

More than 600 guests gathered for an inspirational afternoon at Chicago House’s 4th Annual Speaker Series Luncheon at the Chicago Hilton Hotel on November 2nd. In a 30-minute keynote address to the crowd, Kenneth Cole recounted his unique entry into the fashion world, selling shoes out of a trailer in mid-town Manhattan. His advocacy and trailblazing efforts in the global fight against AIDS are what attracted Chicago House to him. VIP guests included ABC’s Sylvia Perez and Linda Yu, Project Runway Season 2 contestant Steven Rosengard, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, Macy’s Media Relations VP Andrea Schwartz, Glossed & Found’s Graham Kostic, local designers Borris Powell and Horacio Nieto and American Airlines’ Mary Francis Fagan, among many others. Special Events Manager for Chicago House Jeremy Hilborn said, “The 2012 Speaker Series was our most successful yet. Kenneth Cole was the perfect addition to the growing list of unique speakers who have lent their voice to further validate Chicago House’s important work. We are proud to have raised such significant funds for our programs, but even more proud to shed light on important issues at an event which hopefully serves as a catalyst for discussion and change.”(Chicago House provides permanent, community-based housing, supportive services, and prevention outreach to individuals and families struggling with HIV and AIDS). Guests left with swag bags from Room & Board, featuring sweet treats from Sweet Miss Giving’s, Little Miss Muffin, and Cheshire Cat Confectionary. For more information, visit www.chicagohouse.org. (Photos by Steve Starr…see more here!)

You CANNOT MISS beloved photog Steve Starr’s upcoming “Face of the News” celebration on 12/12/12 at the John B. Murphy Auditorium, located at 50 E. Erie! Celebrity photog, author and collector, Steve is celebrating his 45th anniversary of Steve Starr Studios with an elaborate photo exhibition/party of broadcasters, publishers, columnists, writers, journalists, entertainment news reporters and producers. This grand night celebrating the media (and Steve!) will showcase more than 400 framed images and will begin with a VIP “News Hour” reception followed by the opening at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by lovable entertainment reporter Bill Zwecker, the night will include tasty bites from local restaurants as well as a few surprises! (A portion of the proceeds will support CPJ – the Committee to Protect Journalists.) For tickets and more info, please visit click here!

HUGE congrats to beloved author/pastry Chef Eric Lanlard on the publication of his latest book, “Tart It Up”! Chef Art Smith and partner Jesus Salgueiro feted him recently at a delightful brunch at their house that featured scrambled eggs with white truffles they dug on their recent trip to Tuscany. Other delicious offerings included Benton Ham of Tennessee with biscuits, Art’s homemade cinnamon rolls, Eleven City Diner’s red velvet cake and assorted tarts from Eric’s book. A Perfect Event’s Debi Lilly made it all look, well, perfect! Congrats Eric and we hope to see you back in town soon! (Purchase Eric’s delightful book here and to see ALL the party pics, click here!)

Thank you so much to WCIU’s “You & Me in the Morning” for having me on a segment recently! I love this show and darling co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow – I don’t have a clue as to how they get up so early, look so good and remain so perky every single day! Thanks also to senior producer Rob Morhaim for including me! (Ratings for this popular show have been steadily climbing and on the day I was there, the show beat out CBS2 News, Fox32 and Mancow on Power! Woot woot! Power to the U!) If you want to see my segment, watch here and make sure to tune in to Channel 26 from 6 to 8 a.m. every weekday!

Don’t forget to check out the BEAUTIFUL holiday issue of A Perfect Event’s E-Magazine! Debi Lilly has done it again in her glorious second issue! Love the mag, love the contributors and love, Love, LOVE the images! A visual feast throughout! Congrats to Debi and all involved! (And make sure to turn to page 246 for my little article on Christmas!)

Well, that’s the news for this week and I hope you’ve enjoyed it! Please subscribe to Candid Candace – both here, on Facebook and Twitter (if you want!) – and I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful weekend!!!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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Tagged as 30 for 30 Campaign, A Perfect Event, Adam Stevenson, Alan Naragon, Alderwoman Michelle Smith, Amanda Puck, Andrea Metcalf, Andrea Schwartz, Anita Alvarez, Anybot QB2, Artbeat Live, Barbara Bates, Bill Burfeind, Bill Mologousis, Bill Noonan, Bill Shipley, Bill Zwecker, BMO Harris Bank, Bob Carl, Bob Graham, Bob Mariano, Borris Powell, Brad Thor, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carol DiFrisco, Carolyn Armenetta-Davis, Carrie Hightman, Cassandra Gaddo, Cece Gonzalez, Charley Jordan, Chef Art Smith, Chef Eric Lanlard, Cheshire Cat Confectionary, Chicago House’s Speaker Series Luncheon, Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation, Chicago magazine, Chloe Mae Loop, Christina Gidwitz, Christina Wojtas, Cindy Burns, Columbia College Chicago, Columbian Ball, Committee to Protect Journalists, Corri McFadden, Dan Baldwin, Dan Uslan, David Pfendler, DC Crenshaw, Debi Lilly, Dominic DiFrisco, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Steven Stryker, Ed Mallof, Elliot From, Erica Strama, Erin McElroy, Face of the News, Father George Clements, Frank Holland, Gabe Klein, Gene & Georgetti’s, Gensler, Glen Missner, Glossed & Found Graham Kostic, Grace Napolitano, Graham Hawkes, Grant DePorter, Greg Hyder, Harry Hightman, Heather Farley Ingram, Heffernan Morgan Ronsley, Hey Jimmy!, Holly Hughes, Honorary Dominic DiFrisco Way, Horacio Nieto, Jamie Gabala, Jason Erkes, JB Spector, Jeanne Sparrow, Jennifer Sutton, Jeremy Hilborn, Jesus Salgueiro, John McMahan, John Mendel, John Waterfield, Joint Civic Committee of Italian-Americans, Judie Moore Green, Justin Jacobson, Karen Pfendler, Karen Stephenson, Kathleen Henson, Ken Girard, Kenneth Cole, Kerry Bowler, Kevin McGrath, Korinna Isselhardt, Kristina McGrath, Larry Wert, Laura Jones, Laura Sage, Linda Yu, Lisa Aronin, Little Miss Muffin, Lou Raizin, Lucy Baldwin, Lucy Wojtas, Lynn McMahan, Marco Foster, Margaret O’Connor, Maria Wynne, Maria Zec, Mario Tricoci, Marion Durpetti, Mark O'Malley, Martin Stern, Mary Francis Fagan, Mary O’Neill, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, McGrath Acura of Downtown Chicago, Melinda Joseph, Melissa Cherry, Melissa Forman, Melllody Hobson, Michael Warnick, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike McGrath, Mike McGrath Jr., Mila Samokhina, Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Museum of Science and Industry, Nina Mariano, Norman Baugher, Oncore Productions, Paramount Events, Party Time Productions, Pasquale Gianni, Paul Iacono, Philip Barash, Platinum Events, Pressure Washing Systems, Project Runway, Pumpkins on Parade, Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Rich Varnes, Richard Roeper, Rick Canada, RJ Melman, Rob Morhaim, Robert Fioretti, Roe Conn, Ron Gidwitz, Room & Board, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Shannon Waterfield, Shari Duffy, Sherren Leigh, Shirley Baugher, Stefani Turken, Steve Biossat Orchestra, Steve Starr, Steve Weiss, Steven Rosengard, Sweet Miss Giving’s, Sylvia Perez, Tart It Up, TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Party, Tess Gabala, theWit Hotel, Tim Smithe, TipsyCake, Tissy Eggleston, Today’s Chicago Woman Foundation, Todd Humes, Toni Canada, Toni Mallof, Tony Durpetti, Tonya Stevenson, Turner Construction Company, WCIU, Whitey Pearson, You & Me in the Morning, Zack Napolitano

October 11, 2012 · 8:23 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

October 1, 2012 · 1:55 pm

THE STELLABRATION CONTINUES AT GENE & GEORGETTI’S!

…PLUS EXPO CHICAGO HIGHLIGHTS, DEBI LILLY "LET'S THEM EAT CAKE", THE SKY IS FALLING AT HERITAGE AUCTIONS, SARAH’S RED MOON PARTY, FCACC’S FURRY FUN, LUNA NEGRA’S NOCHE DE LUNA GALA, MITCH CANOFF’S BIG NIGHT, CAMP COSMETICS, MICH MAG AND VS CHICAGO MAG PHOTO SHOOTS, NEWCITY STYLE, WRIST WISHES FOR CHARITY AND SO MUCH MORE!

Gene & Georgetti’s, one of my favorite restaurants in town, hosted a party for one of my favorite people in town, Stella Foster. Held upstairs in the Fireplace Room (which is so cozy, it makes you cry), more than 30 close friends came together to celebrate this Chicago icon. The cocktails flowed along with the most delicious food that included sausage and peppers, chicken, lamb chops, beef tenderloin, shrimp cocktail, cake, their world famous spumoni and so much more. Guests took turns sharing their thoughts. Warner Saunders said, “I’m going to quote Shakespeare when I say it is the summer of our discontent to have Stella leaving. There has been no one in this city who has done it quite like her – a combination of news and kindness and whenever she shoots an arrow of criticism, she makes sure the tip is coated in honey.” The always eloquent Dominic DiFrisco said, “Stella, as you know, means star and you have illuminated our city and we love and honor you. What you do is prove that America is not so much a melting pot but more a beautiful mosaic. We are not homogenized; in fact, we make up that mosaic with our different cultures and religions and we come together and celebrate that standing together.” NBC5’s Alison Rosati said, “Thank you for being so kind, authentic and genuine and for really knowing the people that you write about. I pray that God will bring you whatever is meant for you and thank you for having such a beautiful heart. You are Stellalicious!” Stella spoke last and her memory amazed me. She went around the room and spoke lovingly about each and every guest – she even knew their kids’ names and grandkids! Friends included Dori Wilson, Marion and Tony Durpetti, Michelle Durpetti, Abe and Angela Thompson, Dominic and Carole DiFrisco, Sadako and Warner Saunders, Nina Mariano, Celeste and Bill Van Dahm, Susan Wexler-Mazzoni and Don Mazzoni, Channel 2’s Suzanne LeMignot, Joann Serpico, Tony Romanucci, Dr. Maria Ashley, Lou Rago, Merri Dee, Vince SanFillipo, Shell Reyes, Regina Daniels, Michael Foster, Vera Chitty, Michelle Molise and Lynn and Richard Ciota among others. I sure hope she doesn’t stay “retired” for long! “I know I can be replaced, but I cannot be duplicated,” said Stella….amen to that!

EXPO Chicago brought its world-class art show back to town after an eight-year hiatus and more than 3,000 attendees couldn’t have been happier! I'd been to one at the Merchandise Mart in an earlier incarnation and agree with the event planners, that it wasn’t the place to be. Important art needs to be seen in a dramatic space and nothing could’ve been more exciting than being at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall for the opening night event, Vernissage. Benefitting the Museum of Contemporary Art, this night included art, sculpture, photographs, large-scale installations and so much more. Vernissage – a French term for art openings – means “varnishing day” and evokes the energy and excitement that surround the opening of this major art event. Vernissage first began in 1982 as the opening celebration for the Chicago Intl. Art Fair. Over the years (1982 – 2004), the MCA welcomed more than 40,000 guests who enjoyed what became one of Chicago’s most sought out and influential art events of the year. Co-chairs for opening night included MCA trustee Jennifer Aubrey and MCA Women’s Board member Marilyn Fields. Ms. Aubrey, known for her keen eye and exquisite taste, is the creative director for local jeweler, Sidney Garber. Ms. Fields is a long-time MCA supporter and is a notable collector of contemporary art. Tony Karman, president and director of EXPO Chicago, attracted more than 100 major dealers to the fair including Anthony Meier Fine Arts, Richard Gray Gallery, David Zwirner, Landau Fine Art Gallery, Kavi Gupta and Annely Juda Fine Art Gallery (where the Mayor was seen browsing). Top restaurants served up their tastiest fare with Marc Brooks’ Park 52 being a standout with its crawfish etouffee. The night raised more than $375K for the MCA and I can’t wait to see it return next year! Seen on the scene were Mayor Rahm Emanuel (honorary chair) and wife Amy Rule, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, critic and Chi
cago native Jerry Saltz, actor Billy Zane, artists Theaster Gates and Dawoud Bay, M.K. Pritzker, MCA Trustees including Sara Albrecht, Liz and Eric Lefkofsky, Liza and Marc Brooks, Lois and Steve Eisen, Larry Fields, King Harris, Penny Pritzker, Cari Sacks, Helen and Sam Zell, Sven Asmus, Elysabeth Alfano (“The Dinner Party”), Martha and Rich Melman, Chef Michael Kornick, Grant DePorter, Randy Zweiban, Carol Prins and John Hart, Gregg Zgonena and Chicago Look’s Isa Giallorenzo among others. (To view more pics from this amazing evening, please click here!)

Debi Lilly is a nationally-renowned event planning expert based in Chicago. She is the founder and president of A Perfect Event – one of Chicago's most successful special event companies with a faithful (and famous) following, including Oprah Winfrey! She regularly appears on “The Nate Berkus Show” with delightful party planning tips and now, for her own eMag Launch Party recently, her jewel box of a store (located at 3050 N. Lincoln) was transformed into Versailles' 18th century France with the theme “Marie Antoinette Champagne and Let Them Eat Cake Fete”! Imagine vanilla pink champagne cakes paired with vanilla moscato cakes filled with luscious champagne sabayon and this was just for starters! There was even a real-life Marie Antoinette perched atop the elaborate sweets table saying “Let them eat cake”…and everyone happily obeyed! Even the cocktails were reminiscent of something Louis XVI would serve! The visuals were astounding (as only Debi Lilly and her team can do) and what a perfect Launch Party for her latest creation, A Perfect Event eMagazine! We were happily transported to an elegant and most stylish place in time! Congrats to my Francophile friend, who continues to amaze us ALL!! (Additional photos by Steve Starr…and to see ALL party pics, please click here!)

I’m a great lover of antiques – my husband says I collect so many things that the only thing left that he can afford to collect are toothpicks…LOL! Sadly, things are so expensive nowadays that my collecting efforts are nonexistent but I do love to keep abreast of the auctions and see what’s going on out there. Of course, my favorite auction house in the world is Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, but sometimes I receive catalogs from places I’ve never done business with but which are still very interesting. On October 14th, in New York at the Fletcher Sinclair Mansion, Heritage Auctions will host the largest meteorite auction ever! Some 125 meteorites will be offered. You can buy the largest piece of the moon – four pounds – ever offered to the public (estimated to sell for $340K+); a large slice from the most famous meteorite in the world, the Williamette, which is housed at the Rose Planetarium/American Museum of Natural History (est. $85K-$110K) or a small meteorite that fell in 1492 and was later chained up in a church so it couldn’t fly back into the sky (estimate $4K-$5K). A number of these rarities and novelties are from the Macovich Collection, which is curated by NY’s own “meteorite man” Darryl Pitt and is considered one of the largest and most important private collections in the world. This auction also coincides with the 20th Anniversary of the Peekskill fireball – the most videotaped meteorite descent of all time – which burnished its legacy by puncturing a Chevy Malibu in its final act just 30 miles outside of Manhattan (estimated to sell for $45K). A special highlight of the auction will be a meteorite from a piece of the planet Mars that legendary recording artist Herbie Hancock had in his pocket during a gala performance at The Kennedy Center last fall for the Thelonious Monk Institute. This bit of Mars, along with Hancock, were “gazed upon” by the likes of Jennifer Hudson, Colin Powell, Madeleine Albright and Aretha Franklin, among others. (One hundred percent of the auction proceeds of this lot go to The Monk Institute, which is devoted to nurturing musical excellence. For more info on this fascinating event, please click here!

Speaking of the moon (how ‘bout that segue?), Luna Negra Dance Theater’s Board of Directors and Gala Host Committee including co-chairs Kristin Conley and Jennifer Edgcomb, Executive Director Joanna Naftali and handsome Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, kicked off their
2012-2013 season and saluted Hispanic Heritage Month with the annual Noche de Luna Gala on September 13th. More than 400 attendees helped raise over $234K to support the on-going work of Luna Negra as a springboard for Latino contemporary choreographers. At the Gala, the company presented its Luna de Honor Award to Pamela Crutchfield, who has been a tremendous advocate for the company for many years. Chicago Community Trust was also presented with a Luna de Honor Award for its ongoing support. The evening, which took place at Venue SIX10, began with a cocktail reception where guests could admire the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class and enjoy improvised performances by the LN dancers throughout the space. The crowd then entered the Feinberg Theater to enjoy a performance of LN repertory excerpts, including work by Sansano, Argentinian choreographer Asun Noales and Brazilian choreographer Fernando Melo. Following a dinner by Wolfgang Puck Catering, guests enjoyed dancing to the sounds of Latin band Son de la Habana in the delightful Kehoe designed space. For more info about the fantastic dance company, please visit www.lunanegra.org. (Photos by Cheryl Mann…to view more pics, please click here!)

I’ve been to quite a few birthday celebrations in my day but none quite as interesting and creative as Sarah Beardsley’s which was held at the Red Moon Theater Company warehouse! I’d never been to this Wonka-esque spot before but I sure won’t ever forget it! As we wound our way around the large building to the back entrance, whimsical characters directed us to the entrance which was lit by two spotlights. Once you entered the space, there was a riot of activity – lights flashing, bubble-blowing DJs, cranes lit with Christmas lighting, spiral moss-covered spinning cones, mountains of food as art, a huge bar, a large space cleared for dancing and lots and lots of Sarah’s friends. No one really knew what to expect since the invite had no mention of a birthday but I ferreted out this info at the party. I should’ve known something like this was afoot when she climbed onstage to happily belt out tunes with the band The Breakfast Club with girlfriend Kate Murray! Attendees included Dr. Lauren Streicher and husband Jason Brett, Becky and Scott Etzler, Dr. Chris Randolph, Susan and Joe Credle, her lifelong friends Mary Jo Fasan and Cindy Lucaccioni, Helen Melchior, Christopher Clinton Conway, Ashley Wheater and Brian Johnson, Jan Melk, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Chris Long, Lyn McKeaney, Magda Krance, Rebecca Besser, Andreas Zafiridis, Janet Owen and Brian Smith among many others. Congrats and Happy Birthday Sarah! (Additional pics by Glenn Kaupert…click here to view more fun pics!)

I love events that benefit our four-legged friends and the amazing Big Night Celebrity Chefs Benefit, hosted by Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, did just that on an exciting evening on September 19th. Guests mixed and mingled under the fabulous Tiffany Dome of Preston Bradley Hall in the Cultural Center while renowned Chef Jackie Shen, along with a dozen of her well-known celebrity chef friends, prepared delicious dishes. As the Geof Bradfield Trio played, guests enjoyed specialty drinks such as the Cosmopoodlitan and the Muttini! A live auction included diamond jewelry from Sidney Garber and a dinner in-home prepared by Chef Shen. For the past 11 years, FCACC has been dedicated to caring for animals from babies who have to be bottle-fed, to animals with injuries to elderly animals who just need someone to love and care for them. (To learn more, please visit www.fcass.org and check out more photos here!)

Mitchell Canoff is one helluva photographer and his friends want you to know it so we’re hosting a wonderful, love-filled exhibition of his work at Paris Club on Monday, October 8th from 5 to 8 p.m. Host committee members include the Melman family, Judy and Howard Tullman, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Sugar Rautbord, Cheryl Sloan and Chris “Hambone” Cameron among others. A percentage of photography sales will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The night, which will also be Mitch’s 70th birthday party, will include a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and music by Lilianna Wosko. (RSVP to mitchellcanoff@comcast.net and visit www.mitchellcanoffphotography.com for more info.)

A reminder! Friends of Conservation (FOC) will celebrate its 30th anniversary, on Friday, October 12th with “Chicago Celebrates the Whole Wild World.” The Conservation Ball, founded by Reute Butler and her family, will feature silent and live auctions, dinner, and a thrilling wildlife exposition. Paul Iacono is super-sizing this event (it will be at Harold Washington Library Winter Garden, located 400 S. State St.) so you won’t want to miss it! Tickets are $350 for general admission and $250 for guests 35 or younger. Hope to see you there!

So many thanks to CAMP Cosmetics and founder Michael Perich, who I mentioned in an earlier posting as honoring me with my very own lipstick, “Candid Candace Coral.” We shot the campaign this week with photographer Amie Hana at her beautiful home in Lindenhurst – she has her very own lake right outside her doorstep and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful! I was even more honored that Michigan Avenue Magazine sent OnAirr videographer Peter Lambrinatos to capture the session for its “behind the scenes” online content. Congrats to Michael on his wonderful cosmetics line which is botanically-extract based. He launched his career working for some of the biggest makeup and skin care names in the business while living in Chicago. As his clientele portfolio grew so did his recognition: He’s been seen on FOX, WGN and CBS to name a few. In 2003, he decided to embark on his own unique business venture and CAMP COSMETICS – whose slogan is “Women are beautiful…We make them pretty” – was created. On May 1, 2004, Michael officially opened CAMP COSMETICS with his first store location in Glen Ellyn; with its mixture of modern minimalistic décor and stainless steel, the store has a chic vibe that attracts women from all over Chicago. I’m thrilled to be the face of this fabulous cosmetics company and hope you get a chance to try it for yourselves! 🙂

I was also honored to be included as the cover feature story for VS Chicago Magazine, the premier Russian language luxury lifestyle magazine in the United States. Based in Chicago, they are the go-to source covering a variety of topics for all Eastern European communities. I had a delightful interview with marketing and advertising manager Olga Ruda and journalist Natalie Berezovska and I hope you’ll enjoy it in the October issue. Pierre Burnaugh shot the cover with wardrobe courtesy of Neiman Marcus on Michigan Avenue (thank you, Tina Koegel and Cynthia Holbrook!!!) and Adelaide on Wells Street. I’m lusting after the black J. Mendel dress from Neiman’s!

More big thanks go out to fashion blogger Isa Giallorenzo for featuring me in her NewCity style column. If you aren’t aware of her blog, “Chicago Looks,” then you’re missing out on some great street style fashions! Congrats Isa and keep up the good work!

That’s it for this week! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it! As always, please send me any suggestions or comments (good or bad) and I will try to implement them. My goal is to keep you entertained, informed and grateful to live in this great city like me! 🙂

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I just love this “gift with heart” idea from Wrist Wishes! WW was created by Nicole LaCross as a way to combine her love of fashion with her love of charity and she succeeded on both counts. Built on the concept of shining little glimmers of hope into the lives of all who wrap them around their wrists, these organdy ribbons include charms representing Animal Abuse, Childhood Cancer Awareness, Heart Disease, Fashion For a Cure and many more. Aside from adding a pop of color and style to any outfit, WW donates $2 from every purchase ($10) directly to the charity represented by your bracelet. Congrats Nicole!!! (To buy YOURS, please click here!)

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Tagged as A Perfect Event, A Perfect Event eMagazine, Abe and Angela Thompson, Adelaide, Alison Rosati, Amie Hana, Amy Rule, Andreas Zafiridis, Annely Juda Fine Arts, Anthony Meier Fine Arts, Aretha Franklin, Ashley Wheater, Asun Noales, Becky Etzler, Big Night Celebrity Chefs Benefit, Bill Van Dahm, Billy Zane, Brian Johnson, Brian Smith, CAMP Cosmetics, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Coral, Cari Sacks, Carol Prins, Celeste Van Dahm, Chef Michael Kornick, Cheryl Mann, Cheryl Sloan, Chicago Community Trust, Chicago Looks, Chris “Hambone” Cameron, Chris Long, Christopher Clinton Conway, Cindy Lucaccioni, Colin Powell, Conservation Ball, Cynthia Holbrook, Darryl Pitt, David Zwirner, Dawoud Bay, Debi Lilly, Dominic DiFrisco, Don Mazzoni, Dori Wilson, Dr. Chris Randolph, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Maria Ashley, Elysabeth Alfano, Eric Lefkofsky, Expo Chicago, Fernando Melo, Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, Friends of Conservation, Gale Gottlieb, Gene & Georgetti’s, Geof Bradfield Trio, Glenn Kaupert, Grant DePorter, Gregg Zgonena, Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Harold Washington Library Winter Garden, Helen Melchior, Helen Zell, Herbie Hancock, Heritage Auctions, Howard Tullman, Isa Giallorenzo, J. Mendel, Jan Melk, Janet Owen, Jason Brett, Jay Gottlieb, Jennifer Aubrey, Jennifer Edgcomb, Jennifer Hudson, Jerry Saltz, Joann Serpico, Joanna Naftali, Joe Credle, John Hart, Judy Tullman, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Kate Murray, Kavi Gupta, Kehoe Designs, King Harris, Kristin Conley, Landau Fine Art Gallery, Larry Fields, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Lilianna Wosko, Liz Lefkofsky, Liza Brooks, Lois Eisen, Lou Rago, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Lyn McKeaney, Lynn Ciota, M.K. Pritzker, Madeleine Albright, Madeleine Grynsztejn, Magda Krance, Marc Brook, Marc Brooks, Marie Antoinette Champagne and Let Them Eat Cake Fete, Marilyn Fields, Marion Durpetti, Martha Melman, Mary Jo Fasan, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Merri Dee, Michael Foster, Michael Perich, Michelle Durpetti, Michelle Molise, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mitchell Canoff, Museum of Contemporary Art, Natalie Berezovska, NewCity, Nicole LaCross, Nieman Marcus, Nina Mariano, Noche de Luna Gala, Olga Ruda, OnAirr, Oprah Winfrey, Pamela Crutchfield, Paris Club, Park 52, Paul Iacono, Penny Pritzker, Peter Lambrinatos, Pierre Burnaugh, Randy Zweiban, Rebecca Besser, Red Moon Theater Company, Regina Daniels, Reute Butler, Rich Melman, Richard Ciota, Richard Gray Gallery, Ross Glickman, Sam Zell, Sara Albrecht, Sarah Beardsley, Scott Etzler, Shell Reyes, Sidney Garber, Son de la Habana, Stella Foster, Steve Eisen, Steve Starr, Sugar Rautbord, Susan Credle, Susan Wexler-Mazzoni, Suzanne LeMignot, Suzie Glickman, Sven Asmus, The Breakfast Club, The Dinner Party, The Nate Berkus Show, Theaster Gates, Thelonious Monk Institute, Tina Koegel, Tony Durpetti, Tony Karman, Tony Romanucci, Vera Chitty, Vernissage, Vince SanFillipo, VS Chicago Magazine, Warner Saunders, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Wrist Wishes

September 25, 2012 · 9:38 pm

CHESHIRE CAT SMILES ALL AROUND FOR OFFICE MAX’S GREEN TIE BALL!

…PLUS 30/30/30 FOR TCW MAG, BRIAN ATWOOD’S A-LIST PARTY, HENSON’S HIGH HONOR, HORSING AROUND AT THE EVERGREEN INVITATIONAL, PRIMO CLASSICO, HARRIS THEATER’S ONE NIGHT COUP, GOLD COAST FASHION AWARDS RETURNS, LATINO FASHION WEEK, CHEF ERIC LANLARD WANTS TO “TART IT UP!,” A MAGICAL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Office Max Green Tie Ball just keeps getting bigger and better! I didn’t think they could top last year’s theme – “The Wizard of Oz” – but with the fantastic addition of Red Moon Theater Company, “Alice in Wonderland” came to life this year for more than 3,000 guests. From the moment you entered the steel factory grounds of A. Finkl & Sons, you knew magic was afoot when you walked the GREEN carpet! Dramatic visuals thrilled your senses everywhere you looked beginning with striking artwork from this classic book streaming down the sides of the tent as you entered the grounds. The Mad Hatter’s tent made me gasp as I saw oversized lamps and fabulous scenes projected on every wall. And the FOOD! There were more than 70 food stations and I don’t mean little tastings: This was REAL food prepared by chefs who wanted to be noticed. Rub BBQ Company served a BBQ martini consisting of coleslaw, cornbread, baker beans and smoked pork shoulder all in one cup! Zapatista’s carnitas on rice flower tortillas with jalapenos was mouthwatering and Flo & Santos served ravarogi (meat pierogies) with vodka cream sauce. Thank goodness I didn’t get to ALL 70 restaurants, although I did see great stuff from Frog & Snail, GT Fish & Oyster, III Forks, Rosebud, 25 Degrees, Province, Frontier and Public House. I was especially touched by the offerings from the sweet kids from Bethlehem Lutheran Church who were on hand from the After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program. Proud ASM Culinary Director/Chef Gloria Hafer said, “These students are special to us and I know they will succeed because of the concern of the people here who have taken an interest in the program. I’m working diligently through ASM to promote self-esteem, excellence, and appreciation of the culinary arts.” Students in the program prepared, displayed and served more than 2,000 “Alice in Wonderland”-themed cookies and cakes. I watch a lot of master chef shows and these kids could teach them a thing or two from what I saw on this night. Shannon Roche, Gisel Bahena, Abigail Garcia, Lily Harris and Omar Cardenas proudly displayed their works of art and told me how important the program was to them. Gisel plans on working in the culinary arts and Omar was happy to have a place to go that would keep him “off the streets.” Abigail commented on the fun she had and how much she loved learning how to cook. This was sheer genius by the event organizers to add these kids so they could highlight this worthy organization! Of the 50 world-renowned chefs invited to this event, After School Matters was the only teen initiative asked to participate. The event was emceed for the second year by “Windy City Live” hosts Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini. When I interviewed them for Watch312.com, they were so excited about expanding to the weekend, with a Sunday edition coming soon. Ryan jokingly said, “You will be sick of us soon like my parents.” They are too cute for words, as we all know! Corri McFadden, glam e-Drop Off founder and star of VH1’s “House of Consignment,” and Donald Storino, principal and co-founder of the government affairs firm Fidelity Consulting Group, served as co-chairs. This event benefitted Chicago Gateway Green, which was founded by Donald DePorter in 1986. His son, Grant DePorter, President of Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group and Chairman of Gateway Green, carries on his father’s tradition in grand style. “As Gateway Green’s signature fundraising event, the Green Tie Ball not only raises our mission but also serves as the catalyst for our ongoing beautification programs, including the Expressway Partnership, for which proceeds from this year’s gala will be directed.” The night also included top notch dance music from deejays Justin Jacobson (founder and impresario of Platinum Events), Rock City and former Fall Out Boy bassist and half of the Black Cards duo, Pete Wentz. He showed up on the green carpet around 9:45 p.m. with gorgeous arm candy, Meagan Camper. My friend and celebrity stylist Eric Himel styled them both to perfection saying, “For
Pete, I wanted to do something different other than rocker attire.” Wentz was decked out in a fabulous forest green suit from Oak Street’s SuitSupply with a bow tie. When I asked him how he liked his outfit, he said, “I feel a little Farrakhan-ish but that’s okay, I'm a fan.” He was dancing and tweeting pics of the crowd as he deejayed. So cute! Meagan was in a sleek black dress from Top Shop with green Alexis Bittar earrings. Such a stylish pair! I loved Eric’s outfit, too, that featured a green skull necklace on a leather cord from Beatnik's, a great store in Lakeview. Entertainment included live performances from Chicago cover bands Dr. Bombay and South of 80. Co-host Ryan Chiaverini thrilled the crowd when he got onstage to sing his now signature song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The Rivers Casino tent featured craps, blackjack and roulette. There was also a Red Moon bubble-blowing, mobile DJ, an Office Max photo booth filled with “Alice in Wonderland” props and “Hawk Man,” who hovered over the crowd on a 20-foot crane flapping his massive, feathered wings (also from Red Moon). Partygoers happily fell right down the rabbit hole at this party! Executive producer for this magical night was “The Food Dude,” David Lissner, who is also a board member of Chicago Gateway Green. This magical night raised $450K to benefit Chicago Gateway Green. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…to see other photos in my Chicago Tribune column by Beth Rooney, please click here and to see all of the magic, WATCH my Watch312.com video right HERE!)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=490&deepLinkEmbedCode=5vZTAwNjpHS-1s63m0aoyIn01542hGze&height=276&embedCode=5vZTAwNjpHS-1s63m0aoyIn01542hGze&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

Handsome shoe god Brian Atwood celebrated his new campaign and first flagship store at 655 Madison Avenue in New York with a star-filled celebration at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Wednesday, September 5th. More than 700 guests mixed with A-list celebs as DJ Mick Boogie played hot mixes but nothing could be hotter than the sky high heels so coveted around the globe by this charming designer who is adored by all. Since its 2001 debut, the Brian Atwood Collection has instilled shoe lust in a legion of fans for its infusion of glamour, exquisite craftsmanship, hyperluxe design and attention to detail. His award-winning styles have earned him the CDA Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for Best Accessory Design and the 2010 Footwear News Designer of the Year Award. His first global campaign this past summer, a print campaign and companion fashion film tell the story of the modern woman's desire for fantasy and control. The new fall print and video campaign were shot together in London by Mert & Marcus with creative direction by Giovanni Bianco and feature supermodel Candice Swanepoel. The fashion film, The Sex is in the Heel video series, is a voyeuristic flashback by a mysterious seductress reliving the previous night's fantasy and will be a part of the film section on the newly redesigned website. I imagine this is exactly how women feel after a night of wearing a pair of Brian Atwoods! In honor of the evening, DeLeon Tequila presented four signature cocktails: Maniac, The Sex is in the Heel, Midnight Purple and The Atwood. Ahhhhhh, so cute! Guests seen at the celebration included Heidi Klum, Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Rachel Roy, Ryan Lochte, Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Nate Berkus, Hannah Bronfman, Estelle, Gabrielle Union, Katie Lee, Candice Swanepoel, Giovanni Bianco, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, proud parents Yolanda (Dusty) and Dr. Alex Stemer, Abby and Dr. Jim Lipton, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina Mariano, beautiful sister Jordan Stemer and Jackson Miranda, darling brother Zack Stemer, longtime friend milliner Loreta Corsetti, Peter Kousothanos, Nina Aversa, Stephanie Weiss, Andi Laidlaw, Cameron Laidlaw, Jerimiah and Brian's handsome husband, Dr. Jake Deutsch. It was a joy-filled affair filled with beautiful people. Long may you reign, Shoe God Brian Atwood – can't wait for your first store opening at 655 Madison Avenue coming October 4th!!!

I love TCW Magazine and I’m so thrilled to be celebrating their 30th
anniversary with them on October 30th with a party benefitting 30 charities in town that assist women and children in need! Leave it to Sherren Leigh to come up with this clever idea for her party which will also include a silent auction called Pumpkins on Parade. Faux “funkin” pumpkins will be decorated by local “celebrities” to be auctioned off. I must say she corralled me for this funkin decorating and I tried but had to relinquish my duties to my dear friend (and crafty genius), Tissy Eggleston. So, even though I will have a pumpkin entered, just know it was a collaborative effort! LOL! There will also be an open bar, food stations, a live band with guests encouraged to wear costumes. Tickets are $150 and I know this will be ONE event you shouldn’t miss! Happy birthday, TCW!

PR News recently awarded a BIG honor to Chicago’s own Kathleen Henson and her creative Henson Consulting firm with National Small PR Firm of the Year! They also won nationally for best Anniversary Campaign for Lettuce Entertain You’s 40th anniversary last summer. Kathleen started her firm 12 years ago in her basement with just a laptop, a phone and a rolodex after her first child, Emily (she now has FIVE!) was only nine months old! I can’t wait to see where this dynamic redhead with a heart of gold flies to next! Congrats to you KH and to Henson Consulting on all of your great work!

A venerable who’s who of Chicago traveled north to the private 230-acre Evergreen Farm owned by JB and MK Pritzker on Saturday, September 6th, to witness one of the Midwest’s most esteemed equestrian events, the Evergreen Invitational. Hosted by MK and The Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and presented by Northern Trust, this fourth biennial equestrian charity exclusive “by-invite-only” event attracted more than 600 guests who came to support the elegant sport and witness nationally and internationally ranked riders compete. More than $1.1 million was raised from this year’s event with proceeds benefitting under-funded women’s health programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. To date, the Evergreen Invitational has raised more than $4 million. The $25K Junior/Amateur Owner Classic kicked off the event with Meagan Nusz winning on horse, Vesuvius. The $75K Grand Prix blue ribbon went to Laura Linback and horse Whittaker MVNZ. In between the two events, hundreds of guests were spotting enjoying the mild weather and admiring some of the exquisite Graff jewels on display or lusting after a number of Ferraris dotting the property (which were available for test drives courtesy of Lake Forest Sportscars). A promenade of shops featured merchandise from Lee Allison Company, Escada, Fabbri Furs, Chicago Luxury Beds and dozens more. A lavish buffet lunch was catered by beloved George Jewell of George Jewell Catering. Guests seen on the scene included Mimi Olson (President of the WB of Northwestern), co-chairs Joan Moore and Christy Cressey, Meredith Wood-Prince, Nora Daley with husband Sean Conroy, Mich Mag’s J.P. Anderson and Dan Uslan, Neal Zucker, Leslie Hindman and Tempel Smith, Traci and Mario Tricoci, Jr. and family, Estelle Walgreen, Quintin Primo, Mayari Pritzker, Susan and Joe Ahern, Dr. Kris and Tricia Rooney Alden, Thea Robinson, Dean Harrison, Julie Selakovich, Curt Bailey, Christy Cressey, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer, Bethany Paris, Linda Yu and Stuart Ellison, Susie and Walter Jaco
bson, Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin, Tom Cole, Denise and Adam Hoeflich and Stephen and Diane Falk. (Photos by Mariah Smith…to view more pics, please click here!)

Members of the Field Museum Women’s Board are immersing themselves in Indian culture as they prepare for the annual gala on October 13th, “The Maharaja Ball.” The gala, co-chaired by Kathleen Carbonara and Susan Faurot, will celebrate the museum’s opening of “Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts” exhibit coming in November. The exhibit is organized by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. The first of two high profile kick-off events was hosted by Patrick and Shirley Ryan at their Winnetka home with more than 50 women in attendance for the annual invitation stuffing party,
“House in the Garden.” The second event was hosted by bestselling Indian cookbook author and former Chicago TV reporter Anupy Singla, who gave a cooking demo and prepared an Indian lunch for the Women’s Board. She schooled the Board in the fine points of Indian cuisine and cooked recipes from her newest cookbook, “Vegan Indian Cooking.” A trip along Devon Avenue for sari shopping was included! This gala is sure to be a sellout so please click here for tickets and more info. Congrats to all of the hardworking Women’s Board members!

Primo Classico d’Italia, a benefit for the Primo Center, will take place at Diane and Quintin Primo’s home in Lake Forest on Sunday, September 30th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will be new and vintage Ferraris along with beautiful models and great Italian food prepared and donated by leading Chicago restaurants such as Pelago, Prosecco, Tocco, Florentine, Volare and Fred’s. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit homeless women and children who rely on the services of the Primo Center. For tickets and more info, please click here!

What do you get when you combine a Grammy Award-winning female a cappella group with a youth orchestra ensemble led by President Obama’s first nominee to the National Council of the Arts? I would call it one magnificent night in Chicago at the Harris Theater! On Thursday, October 4th only, they will debut a performance by Sphinx Virtuosi with Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Chicago Children’s Choir with a premiere of its new work, Affirmations for a New World. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $10 to $35! For tickets and more information, please visit www.harristheaterofchicago.org.

The 57th Gold Coast Fashion Award show, the signature fundraising event of The Children’s Service Board, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, will be at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan, on Friday afternoon, September 28th beginning at 11 a.m. with a cocktail reception. Emerging designers will compete for the coveted Gold Coast Fashion Award with audience members casting their votes. Last year’s winner, Fabiola Arias, will open the show with her fall collection and designers Lyn Devon, Tess Giberson, Wes Gordon, Stacy Lomnan, Misha Nonoo, Rolando Santana, Verlaine and Rubin Singer will be competing for the 2012 award. Retail partners this year include Chalk, Mark Shale, McElroy Furs, Neiman Marcus, Perchance, Frances Heffernan and Saks Fifth Avenue. David Yurman will once again host the Grand Staircase entrance during the cocktail hour with displays of fabulous jewelry. Tickets begin at $200 and can be purchased by visiting www.gcfas.com.

Now in its sixth year, Latino Fashion Week will premier its 2012 tour with the theme “Images of Fashion.” Co-founded by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon, Jr., the tour will include Dallas, Chicago and Miami, and will honor photographers and videographers involved in the exhibition. Highlighted in the Chicago exhibit is globally renowned fashion photographer, Daniel Garriga. This five-day event will include runway shows, celebrity appearances, VIP receptions, a one-day Fashion Lounge and Expo, and much more! The Kick-Off event, “Lights, Camera, Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party,” will be at Zhou B Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th St. on Tuesday, October 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. (For tickets and more info, please call 773.865.7313 or 773.251.3329.

And now someone you should know! London-based Chef Eric Lanlard is coming to the Windy City on Tuesday, October 30th, to celebrate the launch of his latest book, “Tart it Up!”(Don’t you just love this title!?) Eric is a master patissier and two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Awards. Having trained in France, Eric moved to London where he ran the patisserie business for Albert and Michel Roux. For the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, he was commissioned to create a recipe (The Elizabeth Sponge) for the celebration! Eric has also appeared in a number of TV series, including top Brit hit, “Glamour Puds,” that have helped him build a global fan base. He’s charming and witty with four books under his belt (so far): “Master Cakes,” “Cox,” “Cookies & Cakes,” “Cake Boy” and his latest, “Tart it Up!” Hosted by Jean Zivkovic and Don Newcomb, a champagne reception (with delicious gourmet tastings) is planned at the Ritz Carlton Club (located at 160 E. Pearson) on October 30th. So please come meet my “sweet” friend and "Tart It Up!" (For reservations – $99 – please call 312.777.1090.)

The Chicago Artists' Coalition presents its Starving Artist benefit on Saturday, October 6th at 217 N. Carpenter St. beginning at 7 p.m. Artists and chefs will be paired to inspire a dish that’s served at the event and a piece of artwork that results will be auctioned off. There will be a charcuterie battle and food installations. Participants will include food preservationist Tara Lane, artists Laura Letinsky, Jeanne Dunning, Erik Peterson, Jenny Kendler and chefs Jared Van Camp, Erling Wu-Bower and Beverly Kim. For tickets (beginning at $150), please visit www.2012starvingartist.com.

The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business recently hosted a day-long seminar series that included a fascinating personal branding segment with keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin (principal of Jan Anne Dubin Consulting) and Joycelyn Winnecke (Chicago Tribune vice president and associate editor). I was even more thrilled when she included me as a “Personal Branding Pro” along with Christie Hefner, Amy Guth, Cheryle Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Jeanne Gang, Ron Culp and Bridget Brennan. It was an honor to be included and introduced to the standing room only crowd! Congrats to Jan and Joyce on a thrilling talk! And speaking of the Chicago Tribune, I hope you enjoyed the new format for my Sunday Candid Candace column! 🙂

The 9th Annual Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR) Mutt Strutt is set for Saturday, September 29th. Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celebrity emcee of the event. (For more info, please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org.)

The 8th Annual Silver Lining Event will be held on Saturday, October 6th, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, located at 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., beginning at 6:30 p.m. This black tie event will be held in the Regency Ballroom and will present darling Sonya Jackson with the EVY Award! Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in honor of her late mother, A Silver Lining Foundation provides cancer resource information and outreach as well as providing funding for free screening mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women and men at seven partner hospitals. Can’t wait to celebrate your honor Sonya for this great cause! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

Whew, talk about an action packed month! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy some of these fun events or I hope I will see you at an upcoming one soon! Also, please follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) for breaking news from around this beautiful town!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful Mable Buckner, who has recently been promoted to President and CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce!!! They are SO lucky to have YOU, Mable! Congrats!

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Tagged as 25 Degrees, 57th Gold Coast Fashion Show, A Silver Lining Foundation, A. Finkl & Sons, Abby Lipton, Abigail Garcia, Adam Hoeflich, Affirmations for a New World, After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program, Albert Roux, Alexis Bittar, Amy Guth, Andi Laidlaw, Ann & Robert H. Hurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Anuyp Singla, Arabel Rosales, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Beatnix, Beth Rooney, Bethany Paris, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Beverly Kim, Black Cards, Blair Spencer, Brian Atwood, Brian Atwood Collection, Bridget Brennan, Cake Boy, Cameron Laidlaw, Candace Jordan, Candice Swanepoel, Candid Candace, CandidCandace, Cassie Gavin, Cesar Rolon Jr., Chalk, Chef Eric Lanlard, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Cheryle Jackson, Chicago Artists Coalition, Chicago Canine Rescue, Chicago Children's Choir, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago Luxury Beds, Chicago Tribune, Children’s Service Board, Christie Hefner, Christy Cressey, Cookies & Cakes, Corri McFadden, Cox, Curt Bailey, Dan Uslan, Daniel Garriga, David Lissner, David Yurman, Dean Harrison, DeLeon Tequila, Denise Hoeflich, Diane Falk, Diane Primo, DJ Mick Boogie, Don Newcomb, Donald DePorter, Donald Storino, Dr. Alex Stemer, Dr. Bombay, Dr. Jake Deutsch, Dr. Jim Lipton, Dr. Kris Rooney, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Dusty Stemer, e-Drop Off, Eric Himel, Erik Peterson, Erling Wu-Bower, Escada, Estelle, Estelle Walgreen, Evergreen Invitational, Fabbri Furs, Fabiola Arias, Fall Out Boy, Fidelity Consulting Group, Field Museum Women’s Board, Florentine, Frances Heffernan, Fred’s, Frog & Snail, Frontier, Gabrielle Union, George Jewell, George Jewell Catering, Giovanni Bianco, Gisel Bahena, Glamour Puds, Gloria Hafer, Graff, Grant DePorter, GT Fish & Oyster, Hannah Bronfman, Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group, Heidi Klum, Henson Consulting, House of Consignment, III Forks, Images of Fashion, J.P. Anderson, Jackson Miranda, Jan Ann Dubin Consulting, Jan Anne Dubin, Jared Van Camp, JB Pritzker, Jean Zivkovic, Jeanne Dunning, Jeanne Gang, Jeffrey Aronin, Jenny Kendler, Joan Moore, Joe Ahern, Jordan Stemer, Joycelyn Winnecke, Julie Selakovich, Justin Jacobson, Kathleen Carbonara, Kathleen Henson, Katie Lee, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Kim Kardashian, Kye Martin, Lake Forest Sportscars, Latino Fashion Week, Laura Letinsky, Laura Linback, Lee Allison Company, Leslie Hindman, Lettuce Entertain You, Lights Camera Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party, Lily Harris, Linda Yu, Lisa Aronin, Loreta Corsetti, Lyn Devon, Mable Buckner, Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts, Mariah Smith, Mario Tricoci Jr., Mark Shale, Master Cakes, Mayari Pritzker, McElroy Furs, Meagan Camper, Meagan Nusz, Meredith Wood-Prince, Mert & Marcus, Michel Roux, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Mimi Olson, Misha Nonoo, MK Pritzker, Mutt Strutt, Nate Berkus, Neiman Marcus, Nicky Hilton, Nina Aversa, Nina Mariano, Nora Daley, Northern Trust, Office Max Green Tie Ball, Omar Cardenas, Paris Hilton, Patrick Ryan, Pelago, Perchance, Pete Wentz, Peter Kousothanos, Platinum Events, PR News, Primo Center, Primo Classico d’Italia, Prosecco, Province, Public House, Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, Quintin Primo, Rachel Roy, Rachel Zoe, Red Moon Theater Company, Rick Canada, Rock City, Rolando Santana, Ron Culp, Rosebud, Rub BBQ Company, Rubin Singer, Ryan Chiaverini, Ryan Lochte, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sean Conroy, Shannon Roche, Sherren Leigh, Shirley Ryan, Sonya Jackson, South of 80, Sphinx Virtuosi, Stacy Lomnan, Starving Artist, Stephanie Weiss, Stephen Falk, Steve Starr, Streeterville Chamber of Commerce, Stuart Ellison, SuitSupply, Susan Ahern, Susan Faurot, Susie Jacobson, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Tara Lane, Tart It Up, TCW Magazine, Tempel Smith, Tess Giberson, The Maharaja Ball, The Sex is in the Heel, Thea Robinson, Tissy Eggleston, TOCCO, Tom Cole, Toni Canada, Top Shop, Traci Tricoi, Tricia Rooney Alden, Twitter, University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, Val Warner, Vegan Indian Cooking, Verlaine, VH1, Volare, Walter Jacobson, Watch312.com, Wes Gordon, Windy City Live, Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Zack Stemer, Zapatista’s Flo & Santos

September 13, 2012 · 10:40 am

CHICAGO’S FASHION’S NIGHT OUT – FILLED WITH STARS & STYLE!

…PLUS MS. FOSTER’S "STELLABRATION," OLD TOWN "CRUSHES" IT (WITH A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO!), AN EVENING ON ASTOR, THE JOFFREY BALLET’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS, FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION BALL, THE 48TH CHICAGO FILM FEST’S BIG STARS, PAWS’ LUCK AND SO MUCH MORE!

Fashion’s Night Out began in 2009 when Vogue editor Anna Wintour created the event to help retailers during the height of the recession. It has spread to 18 countries with 4,500 events across the U.S. alone and is now a two-week-long affair culminating on
September 6th. Chicago’s FNO did not disappoint: “Fashion Police” star Kelly Osbourne kicked off the Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival (presented by MasterCard) on August 24th and it only accelerated from
there with almost every store along the Mag Mile having some sort of exciting fashion event. Macy’s on State Street offered reality stars as its draw with Aviva Drescher of “The Real Housewives of New York” and Nzimiro Oputa of “Fashion Star” and Neiman Marcus offered up a runway presentation hosted by “House of
Consignment” star Corri McFadden. Saks Fifth Avenue’s party was hosted by Amanda Puck, Kimberly Burt, Kristina McGrath, Lauren Buxbaum, Lisa Frame, Lisa Sweitzer, Sam Saifer Berngard, Sherri Hoke and Susanna Negovan. Water Tower Place hosted an “In Fashion Lounge,” which featured a series of special workshops including a Gilt City Chicago Night, a culinary demo, a fall trunk show with
Michael Hill and an Akira footwear trunk show. Sarca – one of my favorite boutiques – hosted a daytime event that included styling tips from Rad and Refined and makeup applications by fashionable blogger Shannon O’Brien. Barneys New York donated 10 percent of sales to the Human Rights Campaign from 5 to 8 p.m. The streets were packed with
fashion savvy guests who had raided their closets for their favorite pieces to wear to this round robin of events. The 900 Shops had a line a mile long of people anxious to get into the VIP Party to see gorgeous actress Ali Larter, who arrived with her hunky actor husband, Hayes MacArthur. (His
new film, “Bachelorette” opened 9/7.) This is one busy, BUSY Hollywood couple with Ali’s book, “Kitchen Revelry” coming out soon. It’s not your
average cookbook: It embraces culinary mistakes! (Sounds like something for me…) She also just finished a movie called “Lovesick” with Matt LeBlanc, a romantic comedy about the delusions that come with falling in love. This busy couple was accompanied by Hayes’ parents, Bruce MacArthur and
his glam mother/chanteuse Shelley MacArthur Farley, whose husband, Bill, joined the group later. The 900 Shops teamed up with Michigan Avenue Magazine and McGrath Lexus and Acura for its second annual FNO themed “Fame, Fashion & Flavor.” Nearly 3,500 attendees came out
to party at this chic, multi-level venue that also featured makeup applications, manicures, massages and hair styling provided by Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Spa and Bloomingdale’s. While pampering and beautifying, the partygoers rocked out to DJ Megan Taylor before they jumped in front of the GlossedandFound.com (recent Rising Star Award winners) photo
booth for fun pics. There was a Gastronomy by Groupon restaurant tasting featuring Stella Artois brews and bites from some of Chicago’s top restaurants including Shaw’s Crab House, Frankie’s Scaloppine, Tavernita, Mercadito, Market and Sprinkles. A fall fashion show styled by Eric Himel was a hit with the crowd. I was proud to be a host of this event
along with Common (Honorary Host), J.P. Anderson, Les Coney, Max Crowley, Jena Gambaccini, Stacy Herpe, Eric Himel, Israel Idonije, Sonya Jackson, Anna Kimball, Graham Kostic, Whitney Lasky, Kristina McGrath, Noelle Provencial, Mary Astor Smithe, Angi Taylor, Sharon Trudell, Dan Uslan, Valerie Warner and Kelli Zink. Congrats to Sarah Burrows (900 Shops Marketing Manager), Ryan Beshel (900 Shops PR Guru) and their teams on an outstanding night of fashion!

My other favorite FNO event occurred at the Shops at North Bridge. This event had a unique take for FNO that featured a stylist’s fall fashion challenge. Local bloggers, fashionistas and stylists – who included Amy Olson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi
Sheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos and Amanda Wolfson with Dee Brodlo – created looks that were displayed on large pedestals that began at the entryway and ended at the VIP Stylist’s Studio Lounge in front of Nordstrom. I was happy to be a judge along with Carrie Lannon, Katie Schroeder, Elaine Doremus, Jessie Kalin and Lisa Ackerman for this fun-filled competition co-hosted by CS Magazine. The night
also included a private VIP reception featuring Russian Standard Vodka cocktails, small bites from Corky’s Catering and delicious sweets courtesy of Vosges
Haut Chocolat. Event producer Amy Olson (who was paired with Nordstrom) won for Judges’ Choice; Suzanne Kopulos (Garmental.com) was paired with White House and won Shoppers’ Choice, fashionista Maggie Morgan (paired with XXI Forever) won
the Drive in Style award for Most Creative and Cheeky Chicago’s Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin (paired with United Colors of Benetton) won for Most Wearable. I loved ALL of the
designs and marveled at the talent of these stylistas. Congrats to Erica Strama, Allison Cooke and their teams for this delightful and exciting FNO! And NOW you know ALL of the Windy City’s Fashion’s Night Out news…though I hope you were there to enjoy it, too!!! (To see ALL of the fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, Steve Starr and Daniel Boczarski, please click here!!

Stella Foster always signed off on her column with "Yeah, I said it" and at her BIG retirement party August 28th, she did indeed say it to NBC president and general manager Larry Wert when he asked her point blank if she was really
retiring. Her hesitation and half-hearted "Yeah" gave everyone in the room some hope for the future with this much beloved columnist. More than 700 fans, friends and supporters turned out
at the Cultural Center to see/hear Stella Foster tell it like it is for the last time…or was it? I personally don't see our dynamic Stella sitting in a rocking chair from now into perpetuity but as we all know, she does need some rest after
43 years of deadlines! I know she's already being courted by a variety of media types to bring her honesty and inclusiveness to their outlets so I think it's only a matter of time before she returns in some way, shape or form back
to the public arena. But on this night, it was all about paying homage to someone who has given us all so much. NBC's Art Norman served as emcee for a program that included tributes from Governor Pat Quinn, Warner Saunders, Melody Spann
Cooper, Dominic DiFrisco, Dori Wilson, Tom Dreesen, Larry Wert, Jamie Foster Brown, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Harry Ellis, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, State Representative Mary Flowers, Richard Dent,
Shell Reyes, John Rogers, Allen Rafalson, moi 🙂 and many more. Governor Quinn called her "a woman for all seasons" and said, "They [the people] need your energy, your enthusiasm and your zest for life. We've been blessed by Stella covering the news
with her human touch." Warner Saunders recounted a comment from her boss, Kup, who said, "I couldn't do my job without her." (And she had only been working for him six weeks at the time!) Saunders went on to
say, "She was not hateful, not nasty and whenever she shot an arrow of criticism, she always dipped it in honey first. You're truly a Chicago treasure." NBC President Larry Wert said, "No one's been more fair or genuine than Stella." Melody Spann Cooper posed this question: "Have
you ever seen anybody with a gossip column who still keeps the best secrets in the world?" Melody then sang the theme from "The Golden Girls" with Theresa Griffen. The lyrics began with "Thank you for being a friend"…awwwww! The
program continued with comments from Channel 2 News' Rob Johnson who said, "Thanks to Stella for making this a better town to live in." Reverend Jesse Jackson offered a prayer reflecting, "We can't take this moment for granted. Thank you Lord for the gift you've given us in Stella Foster and thanks for the gifts you gave to her." Harry Ellis said, "There will never be another you!" Dominic DiFrisco, a well-known leader in the Italian
American community who awarded Stella with the Dante Award, had this to say: "Stella, the name
means ‘star’ in Italian. She's a star in our lives and she's a champion of truth. We are infinitely privileged to walk beside you." President of the Chicago Journalists Association Allen Rafelson, who recently awarded Stella with a Lifetime Achievement Award, said Stella's appearance for the gala broke attendance records. Stella's sister,
Jamie Foster Brown, said, "She's retiring from the Sun-Times but she can't retire from who she is. Stella IS Chicago!" The
Stellabration committee was chaired by Stella's longtime friend Ken Bedford and co-chaired by PR maven extraordinaire Dionne Williams. Members included John Bellamy, Michelle Boone, Gloria Brown, Les Coney, Carolyn
Curry, Alex Dana, Dominic DiFrisco, Mary Frances Fagan, Craig Gilmore, Hermene Hartman, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Kim Nash, Lisa Newman, Art Norman, Bill Pry, Tim & Everett Rand, Shell Reyes, Donna Lear Robinson, John Rogers, Lorri Stacker, Robert Storman, Commissioner Debra Sims,
Abe Thompson, Dori Wilson and moi. The night also included rousing numbers by The Together Band & Rich Aldana, DJ Sam Chatman and vocalist Antone. It was a night packed with love for this Chicago treasure and I'm hoping – like all of the other "Stellaholics" out there – that we haven't seen the last of her. Yeah, I said it! (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here to view more!)

After a brief name change, the annual end-of-summer festival in Old Town was back on September 2nd as “Crush in Old Town.” On Labor Day weekend, Wells Street was closed from North Avenue to Schiller for music, food, artwork and
custom designs in the Crush marketplace. Entertainment included Like Pioneers, Andrew Belle, Pet Lions and My Gold Mask. The event also included face painting, a magic show, crafting with Little Beans Café, delicious food from Trattoria Roma and a variety of fabulous wines from Galleria Wine & Liquors. Here’s how my Crush adventure unfolded on Watch312.com…with
a special visit to the gorgeous home of Chicago’s most beloved bandleader/pianist, Stanley Paul! (Next year, Stanley will be hosting a Silversea’s tour from Stockholm to Copenhagen aboard the Silver Whisper from July 12th through 19th! His fast-paced, 45-minute show that includes nearly 300 rarely seen photographs will take you back to the days when glamour was GLAMOUR! (For more info, please call Candace Andreozzi at 561-306-6798 or email candace@posthastetravel.com.)

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Eight years ago, Helen Melchior and I wanted to create an event to attract a younger crowd to The Joffrey Ballet and today, “Couture & Cocktails” has grown into the organization’s second largest fundraiser and we couldn’t be more excited! With dynamic
2012 co-chairs Kristina McGrath and Sonya Jackson, the tradition continues on Friday, September 28th, at the new McGrath Acura Dealership, located at 1301 N. Elston. Beloved designer Pamella Roland returns to C & C with a full runway fashion
show; there will also be once in a lifetime prizes, fun food (including sweets from Sugar Chic), live and silent auctions by Luxury Garage Sale, dancing with the Joffrey dancers and, for the first time, popular Chicago food trucks (including my favorites Babycakes and Southern Mac & Cheese)! And,
not to give away any surprises, but the opening of the event alone will be worth the cost of admission! So join us and experience the excitement and glamour of “Couture & Cocktails” this year! If you have a business you would like to have represented in the Tribute Book, or for tickets and more info, please click here.

The 30th annual Evening on Astor brought out the competitive streaks in some of our town’s notables as they created extravagant, festive tablescapes for judging consideration. Hosted by the Gold Coast Neighbors Association, this annual block party and
fundraiser brought out more than 800 people for a celebration that included the Michael Lerich Orchestra, pizzas, hot dogs, Italian sausage, face painting, children’s games, a photo booth and a dessert bar. Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy spoke along
with 18th District Police Commander William Dunn. The BIG winner of the night for the 2012 Best Table Award went to Macy’s Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steven Stryker; others seen on the scene included Vern Broders (President of the Gold Coast Neighbors
Assn.), Tiffani Kim, Bradley Griffith, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Paula and Peter Fasseas, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Janice Corley and Ray Blaney, Kim Gleeson, Heather Johnstone, Cheri Lawrence, Wendy
Chronister, Kevin Sullivan, Cindy and Jack Fisher, Susie and Walter Jacobson (whose book, “Walter’s Perspective: A Memoir of Fifty Years in Chicago TV News” comes out in October), Margie
Habermann, Christine Mallul, Deborah Chapman, Tim Egan, Lyn McKeaney, Scott Bobek, Sally Jo Morris, Liz Kores, Lauren Rapisand, Patrick Plante, Diva Lynne Jordan and Dorothy Whealan. Funds raised from this event supported GCN in its efforts to protect, improve and beautify the neighborhood. (Check out more photos from this fun event here!)

Mark your calendars now for this year’s Friends of Conservation Ball on Friday, October 12th! Hosted by FOC founder Reute Butler and celebrating the organization’s 30th anniversary, this event will be bigger and better than ever under the beautiful canopy
of the Winter Garden Ballroom of the historic Harold Washington Library! Zoraida Sambolin returns as emcee along with renowned wildlife expert Jim Fowler (of “Wild Kingdom” fame!) With a delicious dinner catered by George Jewell, there will also be a thrilling wildlife exposition of rare and beautiful animals. An auction of unique and exotic vacation adventures will include a London/Scotland package with a stay at
the five-star luxury Langham in London, the Balmoral in Scotland and a trip aboard the historic Royal Scotsman. Other packages offer trips to China, India, South America, Patagonia Sur, Tanzania/Uganda and a weeklong Sea Cloud cruise
aboard the intimate River Cloud II. The night will also feature a silent auction with rare art and gift packages as well as dancing under the stars to the Stu Hirsh Orchestra. Congrats in advance to Reute and unofficial event chair Paul Iacono on a one-of-a-kind fundraiser that will enable the FOC to partner with the local people in the Masai Mara area of Kenya to support traditional
and sustainable ways of living in harmony with wildlife and ecosystems which helps keep our world intact. Founded in 1982, FOC was one of the world’s earliest leaders in the development of community conservation. For tickets and more information, please contact Sue Mitchell at 630-288-2714 or smitchell@friendsofconservation.org.

The eyes of the entertainment world will be on Chicago when the 48th Chicago International Film Festival opens with the world premiere of the highly-anticipated “Stand Up Guys” on Thursday, October 11th, at the Harris
Theater. Produced by Chicagoan Tom Rosenberg and directed by Chicagoan Fisher Stevens, the film features an all-star cast that includes Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Julianna Margulies, all of whom will be in town to celebrate the opening night of the Festival on the 11th. (Lionsgate will release the film for an
Oscar qualifying run in December in L.A. and N.Y. and nationwide on January 11th.) “This is without a doubt the most exciting opening night for the Chicago International Film Festival in many years,” said Michael Kutza, Founder and Artistic Director of the CIFF. I’ll say!!!! (I’m also honored to say I’ll be co-hosting this event with
the dynamic Rich Varnes.) The night begins at 6 p.m. with red carpet arrivals, a 7 p.m. welcome and guest presentation, a 7:30 p.m. film presentation and a 9:30 p.m. reception at the Chicago Cultural Center. For tickets (beginning at just $35) and more info, please click here or call 312-332-FILM.

The ZOE Foundation will host its second annual In-Rhythm Benefit on Friday, September 21st, at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, located at 163 E. Walton. The black tie evening will feature emcee Val Warner and Dr. David Montgomery. Entertainment will be provided by Lynne Jordan & The Shivers with a presentation of the 2012 Gift of Life Award to
Mr. David Rubin, a philanthropic supporter of the foundation as well as a patient who has mastered atrial fibrillation. This event creates awareness and is dedicated to finding a cure for atrial fibrillation (AF) and elimination of strokes and heart failure. For more info, please visit www.ZFFORAF.org.

The Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC), a non-profit organization working with abused children, will hold its fifth annual “Guys Night Out for the Kids” event at Carmichael’s Steak House (located at 1052 W. Monroe) on Thursday, September 20th. Chicago Bear Charles Tillman is the honorary chair who will be joined by other athletes, sports personalities, golf pros and community and business leaders. The event will include an indoor BBQ, games, music, premium cigar
makers and liquor vendors in a tailgating atmosphere. Other athletes expected to attend include former Bear “Big Cat” Williams, Richard Dent, “LA” Mike Richardson, Jim Thornton, Ron Kittle, Dan Pasqua and Dan Hampton. All proceeds from “Guys Night Out” benefit the CCAC and the victims of sexual abuse in the Chicago area. For tickets, beginning at $100, and more info, please visit www.chicagocac.org.

Do you need a little luck? Well, look no further than PAWS Chicago, located at 1997 N. Clybourn, where Lucky, a two year-old miniature Schnauzer, is
ready and waiting for YOU! He came to PAWS after he was dropped off at the city pound weighing only 16 pounds. He’s an energetic little guy who loves people and playtime. Please help this precious pooch live up to his name by
giving him a great forever home! (Visit PAWS’ website or call 773.935.PAWS for more details.) And while we’re on the subject, PAWS Chicago is competing with 196 charities nationwide for grants ranging from $10K to $250K from the Chase Community Giving Program. If you’re so inclined, please help by voting for them through September 19th at www.pawschicago.org/chase! Good luck…and adopt Lucky! 🙂

Hope you’re all enjoying the “dog” days of summer (pun intended) & I hope to see you at some of these cool events around town soon!

Love always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. As you all know I’m a sucker for our furry friends so here is another great event that I hope you’ll be able to make! BIG NIGHT CELEBRITY CHEFS BENEFIT will take place under the fabulous Tiffany Dome of Preston Bradley Hall in the Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington, on Wednesday, September 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. This event is hosted by the Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control and will feature celebrity Chef Jackie Shen, who, along with about a dozen of her well-known chef friends, will each prepare delicious dishes for this wonderful cause! A fabulous live auction will include exquisite jewelry from Sidney Garber. So come join us, enjoy the music, relax and have a Mutt-ini as we help our four legged friends find forever homes. (Tickets are $100 in advance and $125 at the door…visit www.fcacc.org for more info.)

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Tagged as 900 Shops, Abe Thompson, Akira, Al Pacino, Alan Arkin, Alex Dana, Ali Larter, Allen Rafalson, Amanda Puck, Amanda Wolfson, Amy Creyer, Amy Olson, Andrea Schwartz, Andrew Belle, Angi Taylor, Anna Kimball, Anna Wintour, Art Norman, Aviva Drescher, “Big Cat” Williams, “LA” Mike Richardson, Babycakes, Bachelorette, Balmoral, Barneys New York, Big Night Celebrity Chefs Benefit, Bill Pry, Bloomingdale’s, Bonnie Spurlock, Bradley Griffith, Bruce MacArthur, Caitlin Daville Collins, Candace Andreozzi, Carolyn Curry, Carrie Lannon, Charles Tillman, Chase Community Giving Program, Cheeky Chicago, Chef Jackie Shen, Cheri Lawrence, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Chicago Bears, Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, Chicago International Film Festival, Chicago Journalists Association, Christine Mallul, Christopher Walken, Cindy Fisher, Commissioner Debra Sims, Common, Corri McFadden, Couture & Cocktails, Craig Gilmore, Crush in Old Town, CS Magazine, Dan Hampton, Dan Pasqua, Dan Uslan, Daniel Boczarski, David Rubin, Deborah Chapman, Dee Brodlo, Dionne Williams, DJ Megan Taylor, Dominic DiFrisco, Donna Lear Robinson, Dori Wilson, Dorothy Whealan, Dr. David Montgomery, Dr. Steven Stryer, Elaine Doremus, Emma Arnold, Eric Himel, Erica Bethe Levin, Evening on Astor, Fame, Fashion & Flavor, Fashion Police, Fashion Star, Fashion’s Night Out, Fisher Stevens, Frankie’s Scaloppine, Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, Friends of Conservation Ball, Galleria Wine & Liquors, Garmental.com, Garry McCarthy, Gastronomy by Groupon, George Jewell, Gilt City Chicago Night, Gloria Brown, GlossedandFound.com, Gold Coast Neighbors Association, Governor Pat Quinn, Graham Kostic, Guys Night Out for the Kids, Harry Ellis, Hayes MacArthur, Heather Johnstone, Helen Melchior, Hermene Hartman, House of Consignment, Human Rights Campaign, In-Rhythm Benefit, included John Bellamy, Israel Idonije, J.P. Anderson, Jack Fisher, Jamie Foster Brown, Janice Corley, Jena Gambaccini, Jessi Sheehan, Jessica Zweig, Jessie Kalin, Jim Fowler, Jim Spurlock, Jim Thornton, Joffrey Ballet, John Rogers, Julianna Marguiles, Katie Schroeder, Kelli Zink, Kelly Osbourne, Ken Bedford, Kevin Sullivan, Kim Gleeson, Kim Nash, Kimberly Burt, Kitchen Revelry, Kristina McGrath, Langham, Larry Wert, Lauren Buxbaum, Lauren Rapisand, Les Coney, Like Pioneers, Lionsgate, Lisa Ackerman, Lisa Frame, Lisa Newman, Lisa Sweitzer, Liz Kores, Lorri Stacker, Lovesick, Lucky, Luxury Garage Sale, Lyn McKeaney, Lynne Jordan, Lynne Jordan & the Shivers, Macy's, Maggie Morgan, Margie Habermann, Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Spa, Market, Mary Astor Smithe, Mary Frances Fagan, MasterCard, Mat LeBlanc, Max Crowley, McGrath Acura, McGrath Lexus and Acura, Melody Spann Cooper, Mercadito, Merri Dee, Michael Hill, Michael Kutza, Michael Lerich Orchestra, Michelle Boone, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, My Gold Mask, Neiman Marcus, Noelle Provencial, Nordstrom, Nzimiro Oputa, Pamella Roland, Patrick Plante, Paul Iacono, Paula Fasseas, PAWS Chicago, Pet Lions, Peter Fasseas, Rad and Refined, Ray Blaney, Reute Butler, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Rich Varnes, Richard Dent, Rob Johnson, Robert Storman, Ron Kittle, Ross Glickman, Royal Scotsman, Russian Standard Vodka, Ryan Beshel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sally Jo Morris, Sam Saifer Berngard, Sarah Burrows, Sarca, Scott Bobek, Shannon O’Brien, Sharon Trudell, Shaw’s Crab House, Shell Reyes, Shelley MacArthur Farley, Sherri Hoke, Shops at North Bridge, Sidney Garber, Silver Whisper, Silversea, Sonya Jackson, Southern Mac & Cheese, Sprinkles, Stacy Herpe, Stand Up Guys, Stanley Paul, State Representative Mary Flowers, Stella Foster, Steve Starr, Stu Hirsh Orchestra, Sue Mitchell, Sugar Chic, Susanna Negovan, Susie Jacobson, Suzanne Kopulos, Suzie Glickman, Tavernita, The Golden Girls, The Real Housewives of New York, Theresa Griffin, Tiffani Kim, Tim & Everett Rand, Tim Egan, Tom Dreesen, Tom Rosenberg, Trattoria Roma, United Colors of Benetton, Val Watner, Valerie Warner, Vern Broders, Vogue, Vosges Haut-Chocolat, Walter Jacobson, Walter’s Perspective: A Memoir of Fifty Years in Chicago TV News, Warner Saunders, Watch312.com, Water Tower Place, Wendy Chronister, White House, Whitney Lasky, Wild Kingdom, William Dunn, XXI Forever, ZOE Foundation, Zoraida Sambolin

September 4, 2012 · 10:54 am

KING OF COMEDY STEVE HARVEY SETS SIGHTS ON CHICAGO!

…PLUS SERVICE CLUB GOES TO THE RACES, A “PERFECT” EMAG, LINDA CLIFFORD’S “ONE NIGHT STAND,” WHERE YOU SHOULD BE FOR FNO, FRANCES HAS A NEW “JEWEL,” ZACUTO FOUNDER TURNS 50, JANE SEYMOUR’S OPEN HEART, TOM TAKES ST. TROPEZ, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO, CHICAGO TRIBUNE WHITE HOUSE DISCUSSION AND SO MUCH MORE!

In a stroke of genius, NBC Universal has nabbed popular entertainer Steve Harvey for his own show, “The Steve Harvey Show,” premiering today, September 4th. The Launch Party at the Hard Rock Café on August 22nd was by-invite-only and featured a live performance by Jeffrey Osbourne. Everyone was in high spirits and excited to meet this one man media empire. From his comedy throne, he has parlayed his genius into best-selling books (“Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man”), movies (“The Original Kings of Comedy”), television roles, game show host (“Family Feud”), clothing lines, a dating website, a charitable foundation (The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation), a production company, a social media branding company, online hair and wig stores and now, his very own talk show based right here in Chicago! He will be relocating his family – gorgeous wife Marjorie and two kids (ages 15 and 16) – here shortly. Since his kids are home-schooled, he joked that, “They would be shipping a lot of people here.” He joked to NBC’s President and General Manager Larry Wert, “There’s gonna be a charge back!” The Hard Rock was packed with friends and fans and he worked the room with a huge smile on his face and seemed especially glad to see his old friend, Abe Thompson, with whom he’d worked with starting out at WGCI. In his comments, he gave Abe a shout-out from the stage and joked that Larry Wert went down on one knee to beg his wife to come to Chicago. “I’m blessed to be here and happy to see a lot of my friends from WGCI like Abe Thompson. There’s this thing called fate. I really should be installing spark plugs! I don’t know how all this business works, I just know what my cut is…I just appreciate it all…I’ve developed over the years. I’ve become a real husband, a real father. I’m really just a general market guy,” said Harvey. When it was recently suggested that his audience was mostly African American, he replied, “You can’t sell three million books
to just black people. Everybody is already in the tent.” And then he introduced R & B singer/musician/songwriter, Jeffrey Osbourne. “His voice hasn’t changed one bit since I first heard him,” said Harvey. Osbourne enchanted the crowd, and when he sang his highest charting solo hit, “You Should Be Mine (the Woo Woo Song)”, the crowd went wild. He brought people up on stage to sing with him and then said, “Folks, I need a white person to sing the woo woo!” Saran Dunmore pushed Margaret O’Connor onto the stage while partygoers chanted, “Go Margaret, Go!” It was a joyous celebration for, what will most certainly, be a big hit for NBC Universal! In a fantastic feature article this month in Ebony Magazine, Harvey shared his “8 Secrets to Make Millions” – 1) Be the best, 2) Have an unbeatable work ethic, 3) Take care of your temple, 4) Bounce back from failure, 5) Build on your brand, 6) Surround yourself with the right people, 7) Be a rule breaker, and 8) Give back. It’s clear to see he has the right recipe for success! Guests seen in the crowd included Deborah O. Brown, Dionne Williams, Hermene Hartman, Saran Dunmore, Margaret O’Connor, Jodi Balfour, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Angela and Abe Thompson, Richard Dent, Laura Baron (who will appear on his first show), Stefan Holt, “Big Cat” Williams, Brenda Arelano, Daniella Guzman, LaRue Martin, Carol Adams, Otis Wilson, Alicia Roman, Marion Brooks, Rob Stafford, Art Norman, Jacinta Fisher, Priscilla Stratten, Stella Foster and so many more! Long may you reign Steve and NBC! (“The Steve Harvey Show” will air on NBC 5 weekdays at 2 p.m. beginning September 4th) I’ll be WATCHING! (To see ALL fab party pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

The 4th annual Service Club Day at the Races was held at Arlington Park Race Track on Sunday, August 18th. More than 130 guests sported their best fedoras, fascinators and hats to attend this event that raised more than $17,000 for the SC’s grant program. The event was held in the Governor’s Room and chaired by Diane Freeman. The room looked gorgeous with tables topped with bottles of Prosecco donated by John Cressman of Worldwide Wines. The centerpieces were overflowing with red roses surrounding silver horses by Tom Kehoe Design. The day also included an exciting Kentucky Derby raffle with the winner receiving two Clubhouse tickets to the Derby and a $1,500 travel voucher. The Service Club of Chicago has continually served the welfare, civic, educational and cultural needs of Chicago and surrounding communities since 1890. Every single dollar raised goes directly to charity. (Pretty pics by Steve Starr.) And speaking of the Service Club of Chicago, check out my Watch312.com video from their fabulous Day on the Terrace fashion show and luncheon! Lots of fab fashions worn by fab ladies AND gentlemen – congrats!

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Leave it to Debi Lilly (brainchild of A Perfect Event) to come up with the idea for a purrrrfect eMag! She designed the first issue while wandering the streets of Paris…nice place for inspiration! This seasonal quarterly e-magazine (that debuted September 1st) is designed to share the latest trends, tips, themes and styles in and around Chicago plus feature the fabulous world of celebrations, holidays, parties and more! For the style savvy, educated bunch looking for serious visual content, this eMag will provide readers with inspiring solutions to their entertaining needs with constant word of mouth and social media content through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, blogs and more. With insight from industry insiders who include Graham Kostic (Insta.GRAHAM), Amanda Puck (The Foodarazzi and Watch312.com host), Ryan Beshel (Runway Report from 900 N), Ben Newby (Mixologist of the Moment), Melissa Skoog (On Her Plate), Matt Woodburn (Light Up the Night), DJ Megan Taylor (Spinning Now), and moi (Behind the Scenes of Causes We Love)! Even some of Debi’s ultra-chic Parisian friends will be sharing their international views. And with input from Chicago’s celebrations guru Rachel Schwanz, this eMag is bound to explode! So watch your inboxes and check your social media for this cool eMag! 🙂 (Holiday issue coming November 1st!) To see the exquisite debut issue, please click here!

Mark your calendars for “Garden of Eve,” coming Friday, September 14th to the River East Art Center (located at 435 E. Illinois) beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be co-chaired by Austin Baidas, Amy Crawford, Emily Fry, Vernita Gray, Pat Ewert, Alma Izquierdo and Liza Martinez. Benefitting the Howard Brown Health Center and its Lesbian Community Care Project (LCCP), the 4th annual signature fundraiser will support women’s health and wellness services and programs for uninsured women. The event’s VIP reception will be hosted by Ted Allen, host of Food Network’s “Chopped.” Entertainment will be provided by 10-time Grammy nominee Meshell Ndegeocello whose music includes a variety of influences including funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, R & B, rock and jazz. (For tickets and more info, please click here or call 773.572.5117.)

There is so much going on for Fashion’s Night Out on Thursday, September 6th and these are two of my favorites! First up, the Shops at North Bridge (located at 520 N. Michigan Ave.) will feature the ultimate fall fashion challenge beginning at 6 p.m. Judges will decide which local fashionista or blogger will win the prize for best fall looks. Competing stylists include Amy Olson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi Sheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos, Amanda Wolfson and Dee Brodlo. Judges include Windy City Live’s Jessie Kalin, ULTA Beauty’s Carrie Lannon, NS Mag’s Elaine Doremus, CS Mag’s Katie Schroeder and Lisa Shames, Fashion Group International’s Lisa Ackerman and moi! The after-party will be at Roof at The WIT from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. See you there! My other favorite FNO will be “Fame, Fashion and Flavor” at 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. The shops will be transformed into a multi-level event space featuring a flash fashion show styled by Eric Himel, a glam beauty bazaar by Bloomingdale’s and Mario Tricoci, a Gastronomony by Groupon tasting with bites from top Chicago restaurants, DJs, Glossed & Found photo opps, in-store parties and so much more! There will also be a VIP Lounge hosted by the stunning Ali Larter. Besides the 900 Shops, this cool event is hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine, McGrath Lexus and Acura of Downtown Chicago!! Can’t wait to parteeeee!!! (To see a more complete list of events, please click here!)

Chicago House is excited to premiere an all new event fundraiser to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to assist families and individuals affected by HIV and AIDS. “ONE NIGHT STAND will be an explosive, multi-sensory dance party wrapped around a live concert,” explained Jeremy Hilborn, Chicago House’s Manager of Special Events. “It’s a full buffet of sights and sounds, built around an experiential concert,” Hilborn continued. For its inaugural year, the new event – inspired by a popular dance recording artist and icon Linda Clifford – will feature her in a custom designed, immersive nightclub environment. From grinding go-go boys to a diva star with a full band to DJ Mathew Harvat offering up the beats, ONE NIGHT STAND will rock a VERY transformed Park West on Saturday, September 15th beginning at 8:00 p.m. Chicago House brought some major players to the table in developing the event in its first year. Keith Elliott (Dance for Life Chicago/Chicago Takes Off) and Tony Savino (Dance for Life Palm Springs) bring more than 20 years of experience in performance based fundraising to create this exciting new addition to the Chicago House event calendar. Tickets to ONE NIGHT STAND start at $35 for balcony seating, and range up to $200. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here or call 773-248-5200 x303.

Steve Weiss, co-founder of Zacuto – one of the world’s largest film making accessories, sales and rental companies – celebrated his big 5-0 recently with a weekend long celebration in Old Town. Friends and family flew in from as far away as Australia to honor Steve and his 9-year-old daughter, Isabel, on the occasion of their double birthdays: Steve’s 50th and Isabel’s 9th. The party began at their
historic house in Old Town (known as the “Yellow House”) with a cocktail reception. A trolley squeezed its way down our narrow streets to pick up all of the partygoers. After a stop for more friends at the Sutton Place Hotel, we winded our way down Lake Shore Drive to our final destination, the “Gypsy Spirit” docked in Burnham Harbor. There was more food than anyone could imagine with more drinks than we should’ve been served but the night couldn’t have been a more perfect celebration for this accomplished man who started his company with partner/friend Jens Bogehegn in 2000. Their company has garnered so many awards, including numerous Emmys, Silver Telly Awards and Chicago Film Festival honors as well as recently ranking 8th in the top 100 for Video Production and Filmmakers Who Know Social Media and Viral Marketing. Others on this prestigious list included YouTube, Vimeo, Weinstein & Co., HBO Documentaries and James Cameron. Yikes – pretty great company, Steve! Anyway, it was a perfect summer evening, the kind you dream about all winter long…and as the boat floated over the smooth-as-glass lake, I counted my blessings looking at our magnificent skyline. The trip through the locks was so exciting but, sadly, made me realize how many people should NOT be driving their own boats. And the fireworks, of course, never disappoint. Steve’s glamorous wife, Lucyna, along with her equally glam sister Christina, presented a whimsical “cake” with Steve’s face on hundreds of cupcakes…her speech was so loving and touching as well. Darling Isabel was dressed like she’d just stepped off the pages of Vogue with her stacked bracelets, scarf worn French-style, a jaunty cap and oversized sunglasses. Her beautiful cake was a surprise (and believe me, there’s not much that escapes/surprises Isabel!) but on this night, she was so excited! It was a fabulous family affair filled with love, frivolity, dancing and great friends. We were thrilled and honored to be included. Happy, happy birthday wishes to a special family in Old Town and someone you should know… 🙂

The Italian Village and the Ferrari Club team up for the 15th annual “Ferrari�
�s in the Loop” – an event that kicks off Italian Village’s 85 years of serving Chicago. All of the proceeds for this event go directly to the Inspiration Corporation and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Sixty high-performance vehicles, including vintage and newer model Ferraris, will be featured at the only Chicago stop the Club will make this year. The Loop will be closed down on Monroe from Dearborn to Clark Street. During the event, the Italian Village will offer an all-you-can-eat and drink Italian feast for a $30 donation (including beer and wine). To learn more, please visit www.italianvillage-chicago.com.

A special congrats to new mom Frances Renk on the birth of her first child – darling daughter Sienna, who weighed in at 9 pounds. (I’m not so sure her svelte mom weighs much more than this!) I can already envision Sienna bejeweled in fabulous designs from Sequin. Love you FR and huge congrats to you and your sweet husband!

PR maven Kathleen Henson has the coolest friends! When she casually invited me to lunch at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab Restaurant, I had no idea I would be dining with her longtime friend, the glam, uber-talented actress Jane Seymour (along with dynamic friends NBC’s Daniella Guzman, Jennifer Baum Boroff, Anna Treiber, Jane’s darling sister Annie and her longtime art representative, Susan Nagy Luks). Jane’s life is full to bursting with art projects/installations, an “Open Heart” jewelry line, a bed linen line, a clothing line and many upcoming film and television roles. Kathleen and Jane have been friends since the mid-90’s when she, Kathleen, helped her host her very first art exhibit in Malibu. Henson Consulting still works closely with Jane and her husband James Keach for their Open Hearts Foundation that recognizes individuals who have overcome adversity to do good and help others. 🙂

Tom Strehle, VP of Human Resources at Beam Global Spirits & Wine, is enjoying the wonders of the French Riviera and making me so envious! This is one of my favorite spots in the world and Tom is having a great time staying at boutique hotel Le Mouillage in St. Tropez, taking a helicopter to Nice and Monaco, drinking lots of Domaine Ott, visiting the hot new Coco Beach Club and enjoying the local specialty, Tropezienne tarts at the Byblos Hotel (one of the best in the world). He is a hard working guy who also gives (a lot) back to local charities…thanks for all you do, Tom, and congrats on your much deserved, jet-setting vaca! (Tom is shown in pic with Byblos Head Concierge Giuseppe Pochintesta…to see more of the St. Tropez experience, click here!)

Congrats are in order for Elana Schulman who is making waves (and cheesecakes!) for HSN! The famous Eli’s Cheesecake is now available on this popular network! Congrats Schulmans – you’re all so "sweet"!

Thanks for checking in this week and I hope your Labor Day weekend was filled with BBQ, friends, love and laughter!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t miss the Chicago Tribune’s “Chicago Forward: Conversations About the Future” discussion about the presidential election with heavy hitters who include Bill Daley (former White House Chief of Staff), U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock (from Peoria), Jim Edgar (former Illinois governor), Christie Hefner (director of the Center for American Progress), Leonard Pitts, Jr. (nationally syndicated columnist) and Jonah Goldberg (nationally syndicated columnist). Bruce Dold will conduct this panel discussion about the Windy City White House 2012! Don’t miss it on September 10th at 6 p.m. at the Field Museum. Tickets are only $15…click here for more info!