Tag Archives: Peninsula

June 26, 2012 · 9:07 am

FASHION COLUMBIA 2012: BIGGEST, GREENEST AND RECORD BREAKING!

…PLUS JOFFREY’S COSTUME LUNCHEON, RUSSIA DAY, SERVICE CLUB’S FASHION SHOW, VICTORIAN BALL, NICOLE’S BABY LUNCHEON, A WHITE PARTY FOR CHARITY, A NEW FASHION BLOG, "ELEVEN DIVAS" AT DUSABLE, MY FAVORITE WEDDING AND SO MUCH MORE!

Fashion Columbia 2012 raised record funds, was the greenest fundraiser and was largest event at the college to date! Proceeds from the event, which brought out over 200 guests, will benefit the Eunice W. Johnson Scholarship in Fashion Studies. All of this good news must’ve made event chair Desiree Rogers very, very happy along with her glam Host Committee that consisted of Trish Rooney Alden, Madeleine Burrell, Gwendolyn Butler, Bonita Chapman, Nora Daley, Janice Barnes Davis, Susan Downing, Elissa Hamid Efroymson, Rich Gamble, Ikram Goldman, Mary Lou Haddad, Mellody Hobson, Susie Kiphart, Julie Latsko, Sylvia Neil, Diane Primo, MK Pritzker, Shawnelle Ritchie, Lynne Turner and Allison Grant Williams. The event at the Media Production Center at 16th and State Streets opened with a red carpet which led to models wearing a selection of vintage pieces from fashion icon, Eunice Johnson’s Fashion Fair Collection. For the main event, 15 fashion studies students showcased 45 designs that included menswear, evening gowns and dresses. The models wore Fashion Fair cosmetics, of course, from the company founded by Eunice Johnson. Desiree had this to say: “Many of the designs intrigued me and I would have purchased them that evening. I could not help but think of how happy Eunice Johnson would have been to see such talent. It was a magical evening.” During the program, Lana Jewelry founder Lana Bramlette was awarded the Alumni Achievement in Fashion Design Award by VP of Institutional Advancement, Eric Winston. Lana is known as the “Queen of Hoops,” with her jewelry adorning celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Kate Hudson, Angelina Jolie and Cameron Diaz, to name a few. A host committee dinner, rooftop reception, VIP lounge and after-party all completed this fabulous night of fashion that raised more than $70,000. Event sponsors included Macy’s and Mercedes-Benz. Live auction packages raised an additional $16K and included a fur donated by Fabbri Furs and a travel package to New York Fashion Week. As for the green aspect, the organizers recycled all post-event paper and other products, even composting food scraps! To learn more about Columbia College and the Eunice Johnson Scholarship Fund, please visit www.colum.edu/. (Click here to see ALL of the pics by Caitlin Saville Collins!)

The Joffrey Ballet’s 10th Anniversary Celebration of its Women’s Board continued with a Costume Luncheon held recently at the Ritz Carlton. Joffrey trainees modeled historic ballet costumes from its archives displaying the wonderful cross section, variety and depth of the collection. Besides the costumes, more than 200 guests also enjoyed beautifully decorated tables by Drew Holitik with mounds of flowers spilling out of Joffrey hat boxes and a luncheon menu that featured spring pea soup, followed by grilled chicken salad and ending with a chocolate Pot de Crème – elegant and yummy all at the same time! The 10th Anniversary Chair, Maureen Smith, introduced her long-time friend, Tina Sloan (a well-known actress from her time on “Guiding Light” and the author of “Changing Shoes”), who delivered a hysterical presentation of her one-woman show based on her book and life experiences including her role in the Academy Award- winning film, “Black Swan.” Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway (who could definitely have his own stand-up comedy show) then introduced Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, who thanked everyone for coming. The chairwomen for the event were Sophie Bross, Liz Ryan, Jennifer Litowitz and Maggie Scheyer with Nena Ivon (Chicago History Museum president and former fashion director of Saks on Michigan Avenue) serving as honorary chair. More than $50K will go towards supporting the Joffrey’s programs and performances as well as providing funds for the Costume Project, whose capable and devoted chair is Lisa Leiden. Seen on the scene were Helen Melchior, Kathleen Klaeser, Dusty Stemer, Tina Weller, Sherren Leigh, Amelia Silva, Leslie Hindman, Suzette Bulley, Jamee Field, Liz Adams, Mary Jo Basler, Sandy Deromedi, Astra Gamsjaeger, Yolanda Tyler, Jim Karas, Shelley Farley, Shauna Montgomery and Marci Holzer among many others. (View more pics here!)

More than 250 Russian nationals and Americans joined together to celebrate Russia Day at a black-tie gala at the Chicago Cultural Center on June 14th. Hosted by the Moscow Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, chaired by the dynamic Aleksandra Efimova and Prince Piotr Galitzine, the event honored Russia’s national holiday, which is celebrated on June 12th and commemorates the day in 1990 when the Russian Parliament formally declared sovereignty over Russia. This is only the second year that Russia Day has been celebrated in Chicago and the first year the event included a black-tie gala. The evening began with Sergey Kislyak, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the U.S., giving the keynote speech highlighting the importance of strengthening the relationships between the U.S. and Russia and focusing on the similarities between Chicago and Moscow. Other speakers included Prince Galitzine, the chairman of TMK IPSCO (a Russian company with offices in Downers Grove); Alexander Tseitline, VP of technology and research of NLMK USA (the U.S. arm of a Russian-owned steel company); and Mike Rehwinkel, president and CEO of EVRAZ North America. In addition to the speeches, the evening included a dinner featuring authentic Russian food, as well as performances by the Campanella Children’s Choir, the Joffrey Ballet, the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Ryan Opera Center and 75 members of the Chicago Master Singers, who will be traveling to St. Petersburg at the end of June. The Moscow Committee presented donations to the Children’s Choir as well as to several WWII vets from both the Russian and American sides. “I truly hope Russia Day encourages people of all countries to see the commonalities between each other and fosters collaboration among Russians and Americans to promote peace and economic growth,” Ms. Efimova said. Since its inception in 1960, Chicago Sister Cities International has built bridges between the people of Chicago and its international neighbors to achieve greater mutual understanding and to strengthen civic, economic and cultural ties. (Chicago has been a sister city with Moscow since 1997.) To conclude Russia Day 2012, Aleksandra and the Russian Federal Agency for the Commonwealth hosted a children’s story time that featured Aleksandra’s Russian translated books and toys. Is there no end to this woman’s talents!!?? Congrats Aleksandra…can’t wait to see what you do next!! For more info, please visit www.cityofchicago.org. (Photos by Mila Samokhina unless otherwise noted.)

The Service Club of Chicago is hosting its annual Day on the Terrace Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Peninsula on Monday, July 30th. This year’s luncheon will have a Parisian theme – “C’est Magnifique in Couture & Contemporary Fashion” - and feature the fall collections from Escada, Intermix, Ralph Lauren, Starr Couture, Neapolitan, Lulu’s at the Belle-Kay, Burdi, Thomas James, Stuart Weitzman and a presentation of evening wear and furs by Neiman Marcus. Fashion show co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Tracey DiBuono and Saira Cooper along with Chair Emeritus Hazel Barr guarantee a show-stopping fashion extravaganza with some surprises planned, as always! The Cocktail Reception will begin on the Terrace at 11 a.m. and will be followed by the Fashion Show at 11:45 a.m. and a luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $175 with all proceeds benefitting the Club’s supplemental grant program. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Fashion, art, music and dance came together on June 15th at the Stan Mansion for the Victorian Ball in the 21st Century. Founder Laura Elvis created one of the most intriguing events of the summer with proceeds, this year, benefitting Chicago Lost and Found and their efforts to raise funds for art education. This year’s star performers included the Joffrey Ballet’s Abigail Simon and Mauro Villanueva and Miss Chicago Marisa Buchheit. The event was emceed by WGN’s Jane Monzures with a red carpet hosted by HGTV’s design star (and all around cute guy) Kevin Grace. The Ball was produced by the handsome and talented Benjamin Cottrell with photos by Kirsten Miccoli and custom designed looks by Anna G. Costumes. It takes a village to have a successful event and Laura Elvis – along with event contributors Shari Duffy, Cera Stan, Ramsey Prince and April Padilla – pulled it off! Congrats to all!

A beautiful baby shower was hosted at the Casino Club recently by glam soon-to-be-grandma, Lynn McMahan for her only daughter, Nicole Brown. Thirty lucky ladies mixed and mingled amidst the elegance of a room dressed in shades of blue for Baby Boy Brown, who is due in September. Designer Tom Kehoe and Lynn planned beautiful table décor that included oversized floral arrangements of blue (naturally!) hydrangeas, New Zealand tea tree blossoms, white stock, purple hyacinths and baby roses with children’s alphabet blocks scattered across the pale blue tablecloths. In a word: BREATHTAKING! Lynn gave a heartfelt and loving tribute to Nicole and after both of their eyes cleared from tears, Lynn asked Rebecca Besser to say a few words. Rebecca emphasized being consistent, not ever be afraid to tell your children that you love them and to savor every moment. Hazel Barr spoke next, commenting that she has raised “three children, five grandchildren and half the neighborhood!” She went on to say, “You will feel a degree of love that you never thought you would have and like most things in life, you learn on the job.” (She also joked that “having children makes you no more of a parent than having a piano makes you a pianist.”) It was a true love fest for Lynn and Nicole and I couldn’t be happier for them or prouder to have been included! Seen in the elegant room were Michaela Parrillo, Toni Canada, Kristina McGrath, Jan Flanagan, Hedwig Golant, Dede Lubeznik, Gail Leahy, Sherrill Bodine, Lynda Silverman, Susan Gohl and Averill Leviton among others. Can’t wait to meet the little guy in September! Congrats, Nicole! Beautiful job, Lynn! (For more pics, please click here!)

And speaking of love, dear friends Alison Howlett and Josh Walters tied the knot in a loving ceremony at Holy Name Cathedral on June 9th. The reception and dinner followed at Gibson’s, where Steve Lombardo and John Colletti outdid themselves to ensure that Alison and Josh were happy as clams! Popular crooner Tony Ocean sang for the wedding party that included Zack Edwards (best man) and Kanika Rankin (maid of honor). The Shannon Rovers even led the couple into the room – how’s THAT for cool?! Guests included proud papa Ed Howlett, Mr. and Mrs. Vinnie Mehta, Senator Howard Carroll and wife Eda, Judge William Bauer and wife Patty, Alison’s mom Lynn Cialdella and grandma Helen Howlett, Judge Mike Howlett and wife Kathy, Helen Cashman and family, Senator Jim Deleo, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Allison, Mr. and Mrs. Al Childress (Alison’s aunt), Roxanne Holloway (Josh’s mom) and John Walters (Josh’s dad) among many others. The couple flew off for their honeymoon shortly after at the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Aruba. Congrats with love, Mr. and Mrs. Walters! (Fab, creative fotos by Kristyna Archer.)

Mark your calendars now for The White Party set for Friday, July 27th, from 9 to 11 p.m. at Underground Chicago, located at 56 W. Illinois. Last year, beloved man-about-town Marco Foster planned this benefit for One Hope United around his birthday so it was a dual celebration. This charity helps abused children as well as foster kids and their parents and since Marco was a foster child himself, this event is very near and dear to his heart. Marco said, “I know what it’s like to get passed around from home to home and it’s not fun. It just so happens my last name is Foster by my adopted mother.” This two-hour cocktail reception will have very low ticket prices as Marco wants everyone to be able to come and support this wonderful cause! For tickets and more information, please click here!

Congrats to personal stylist Maggie Rei Stepf, formerly manager of J.Mendel on Michigan Avenue: This enterprising and talented lady has launched a new website, ChicXCity.com, which exclusively highlights local designers and boutiques as well as featuring insider scoops on deals of must-have items for the season. Maggie also offers wedding styling advice! I’m so happy for her and wish her all the best! Click here and find out the latest fashion news! :)

A thrilling concert featuring eleven of our town’s top female vocalists will return to the DuSable Museum, located at 740 E. 56th Place, on Sunday, July 8th. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Timeless Gifts, which is a summer mentoring program that gives young performers the opportunity to participate in performances where they will be mentored by world-class performers and technicians. The concert, dubbed “Eleven Divas,” was founded by Joan Collaso and will feature Lynne Jordan (love you…and your Shivers!), Frieda Lee, Sue Conway, Julia Huff, Maggie Brown, Bobbi Wilsyn, Tecora Rogers, Margaret Murphy, Theresa Davis, Yvonne Gage and Joan herself. There will be two shows – 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. – and for ticket info, please call 312.808.0005.

Who will I see at Old St. Pat’s Block Party next weekend, June 29th and 30th!? I hope YOU! I’ll be guest bartending with some very well-known peeps so I hope you’ll come out and see us! (Please don’t order anything difficult as my skills behind the bar leave something to be desired! Have a great week and I hope to see you here the next time! If you enjoy my weekly “blogazine,” please sign up (above right) and receive updates. :)

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. As I’m always happy to promote new models/designers, I would like to introduce you to 19-year-old Johnathan Cook, who is trying to make a fashion statement from Rockford, Illinois! Besides being a designer, Johnathan describes himself as “son, brother to Liberty Cook, gospel singer, musician and model.” From the looks of this photo, I think he’s got a great start! Good luck, Johnathan, and follow your dreams!

ALL EYES WERE ON MAMIE WALTON AT THE ILLINOIS EYE-BANK GALA!

…PLUS BETTY WHITE RULED THE NIGHT AT MBC, A NAVY PIER HOTSPOT FOR LOCALS!, GLAM LAUNCH PARTY (WATCH 312 VIDEO!), ZOO-OLOGIE BASH IS BACK, OLD TOWN ART FAIR (HIGHLIGHTS ON WATCH312!), SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW AND SO MUCH MORE!

It’s not often that you feel transported to Britain here in the Windy City but this was the theme and the ambiance for the recent Illinois Eye-Bank Gala honoring Mamie Walton as the 2012 Woman of Vision and Dr. Joel Sugar as the Gift of Sight Honoree. (Joel has been the Illinois Eye-Bank’s Medical Director for 25 years.) The party, titled “Annabel’s: Indulge in London’s Veddy Best,” brought out more than 200 guests to the Peninsula on a perfect summer night. This hotel has one of the finest patios in town and when the weather is as flawless as it was on this night, no one wanted to move inside for dinner! Mamie Walton’s British roots made the party’s theme so appropriate for this magnetic and ageless woman. With décor by Tom Kehoe, the Grand Ballroom perfectly captured the look and feel of the famed London nightclub, Annabel’s, with purple linens, gold napkins and chairs and even a signature Annabel’s touch, a circular dance floor. This legendary club was founded in 1963 and named after the late Sir James Goldsmith’s wife, Annabel. It was the first of its kind – a members-only nightclub that catered to an exclusive clientele that included royals such as Princess Anne and the Prince of Wales, President Richard Nixon, Aristotle Onassis and Frank Sinatra. Entertainers who have performed there include Tina Turner, Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross and, most recently, Lady Gaga. On this night, we had our own top-notch entertainment with Mamie herself serenading us in song (“Time After Time”) in perfect pitch. As she glided around the dance floor in a glamorous vintage black Chanel cocktail dress, you felt like you were truly a lucky member of an exclusive club, the Mamie Walton Fan Club! Her dress, by the way, was worn 20 years ago to Annabel’s when she and her late husband, Julius, were in London. After dining out with friends, the Morales, they hit Annabel’s. He was the Ambassador for Great Britain to Panama at the time. The Mark Olen Trio performed and Franklin Lamphere sang three songs from the 50’s and 60’s. Master of Ceremonies was the incomparable Bill Zwecker who is a long-time friend of Mamie’s. Eye-Bank Executive Director Diane Hollingsworth announced the Beverly Blettner Gift of Knowledge education fund and acknowledged Amy Wimer. “Beverly looked for one person to carry that torch and it was Amy who chaired the event for the first three years.” Dr. Randy Epstein introduced Dr. Sugar and awarded him his honor. Bill introduced last year’s Woman of Vision honoree Jean Antoniou who proudly presented Mamie with her Woman of Vision Award to wild applause. Guests for the evening included Hazel and Warren Barr, Greg Hyder and Jim Smith, Vonita Reescer, Myra and John Reilly, Tiffani Kim and Brad Griffith, Sherren Leigh, Tina and Jeff Weller, Ken Norgan, Maria Zec, Mary Ann Rose, Heinz Kern, Lynne Bredfeldt, Ray Drymalski, Dr. David Donnersberger, Margaret O’Connor and Dr. Michael O’Meara, Eileen and Howard Weinberg, David Brandt, Sheryl Dyer, Sean Eshaghy, Toni and Rick Canada, Heather Farley and Bruce Ingram, Tom Gorman, Linda and Mark Heister, Gregg Zgonena, Cynthia King and Rich Varnes, John Regas, Her Serene Highness Princess Anna Christina Radziwill (whose maternal aunt was Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis), Stanley Paul, Karen and Peter Martino, Megan McKinney, Lynn and John McMahan, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Segesta, Bunky Cushing and Sherrill and John Bodine among many others. More than $80,000 was raised to help restore the sight to over 1,000 people each year throughout Illinois. Congrats to Mamie and Joel on their much deserved honors and to learn more about this worthy organization, please visit www.IllinoisEyeBank.org. (To view more pics, please click here!)

It was one of those perfect nights in Chicago that we wait all winter for. Everyone was dressed in their best with smiles from ear to ear. If you live here, you know what I'm talkin' about. And it was on this night that a new, chic soon-to-be hotspot opened on Navy Pier called City Porch. I was proud to co-host the party with owner Manolis Alpogianis of America's Dog fame. He and his family have a long history of restaurant successes and this new spot will be yet another notch on their belts. For opening night, Chef Heather Terhune (Sable) featured some of her specialties. Every month, there will be a celeb
rity chef with Tony Mantuano (Spiaggia) in July and in August, Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven and The Purple Pig) will be featuring his special menu. The menu under Executive Chef George Alpogianis (Manolis' cute brother) and Chef de Cuisine Anthony Riley has a variety of delicious selections in place under "Big, Small and Sweet Plates." For small plates, mouth-watering dishes like Moroccan buffalo wings, Wagyu beef sliders, Havarti mac & cheese, chicken souvlaki and hand-packed crab cakes are on the menu. Salad plates include a killer lobster avocado salad, heirloom tomato salad and chicken chopped salad. Big Plates offers some of the best margherita pizza I've tasted in a long, long time and the sandwich offerings are too extensive to mention! There is also a section for the little ones (whose menus I always covet) as well as fabulous sweets including Eli's Cheesecake, skillet cookies and chocolate peanut butter Napoleons! Designed by Gretchen Dockendorff (with input from Manolis) this new restaurant offers a chic dining experience looking over Lake Michigan and the skyline. It's charming yet upscale all at the same time. Chef Art Smith had this to say: “What I love about City Porch is the fact that it brings the best of Chicago to a very popular destination place, Navy Pier. Yes, there are funnel cakes, corn dogs, etc. but now, there are beautiful artisanal foods prepared by Chicago's very best. Our city has amazing chefs and thanks to Manolis Alpogianis and his family they will introduce this to thousands upon thousands of tourists at Navy Pier, too.” On opening night, bold-faced locals came out to play and party! Hopefully, I will see you on the City Porch soon – the Adirondack chairs arranged for fireworks viewing are genius! Watch for Watch312.com's "Candid Candace Chicago" video coming soon!!!! (To see ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here!)

On Friday evening, June 8th, hundreds of Chicago’s most fashionable and philanthropic joined together at the Greenhouse Loft (located at 2545 W. Diversey) for Macy’s Glamorama kickoff event, the Glam Launch Party! I was so proud to chair this event for the third year benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI). The evening was a nod to the 60’s, coinciding with the 2012 Glamorama theme “British Invasion: The Music Then, The Fashion Now!” and featured the music of American English (who were just voted the top Beatles cover band in the country!) They kept the crowd dancing with rousing renditions of all of the Beatles classics along with a great DJ, Lee Michaels. At this exclusive event, guests mixed and mingled while sipping on cocktails courtesy of SkinnyGirl Cocktails (thanks for the introduction Tom Strehle!), Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Voga Wines, and enjoying passed appetizers from Food for Thought catering. Sweet treats were courtesy of our new sponsor, Amy DiTomasso of Sugar Chic Designs. Models, dispersed throughout the expansive space, showcased collections from local designers Anna Fong, Borris Powell, Elda de la Rosa and M2f Brand Denims. The view of Chicago from the beautiful landscaped rooftop garden was a highlight and as guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres al fresco, other supporters were busy having their photos taken by on-site photog, Steve Ewert. Other highlights included a performance from the high-energy hip hop dance troop, Hip Hop Connixon, fashion illustrations by beloved Rosemary Fanti and the ever popular (and my favorite!) Action Booth that had lines all night long! Familiar faces spotted at the party included RMHC-CNI Chairman of the Board Paul Huebener and chic wife Rosanne, Macy’s Kamal Bosamia, Shops at Northbridge Marketing Manager Erica Strama, Glam Host Committee members Paul Iacono, Katie McLenaghan, Lynn McMahan, Quenten Schumacher, Michaela Parrillo, Macy’s Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steven Stryker, Katie Cahnmann, Justin Jacobson, Kerry Shorr, Sally Shorr, Fabrice Calmels, publicist Kathleen Henson, Heather Farley, Stephanie Krol, Julianne Glatz, Joan Colmar, Helen Melchior, Corinne Melchior, Vonita Reescer, Erica Strama, Eric Himel, Tom Gorman, Dionne Williams, Cece Gonzalez, Melinda Joseph and Michelle Durpetti among many others! To purchase tickets to the MAIN EVENT, GLAMORAMA, featuring Robin Thicke and Karmin at the Harris Theater, please click here . And to see the fun on Watch312.com’s "Candid Candace Chicago," looky here! (Oh, and check out this gallery for more pics from Steve Starr and moi!)

The “Mob Wives Chicago” premier party for cast member Pia Rizza took place June 10th at JBar in The James hotel. Jennifer Graziano, creator of the “Mob Wives” franchise, was also there with more than 100 guests. According to the press release, “Pia Rizza is the daughter of Vincent Rizza, a dirty Chicago cop who worked for the Mob. He testified against the Mob and then went into the Witness Protection Program. Pia has struggled all her life to hide from the shame of having a ‘rat’ for a father. It’s been especially difficult to avoid the judgments and finger pointing in a town like Chicago. With the success of the original ‘Mob Wives NYC,’ it would only be a natural progression to feature women that were associated with the ‘alleged’ Chicago Outfit.” I haven’t seen it yet but will be on the lookout! Sadly, Lord knows, everywhere you go in the world, the first gesture is of a machine gun when you tell people you’re from Chicago.

The Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoo-ologie Gala was their biggest one yet, with 1,000 guests raising more than $150,000! Hosted by the Auxiliary Board and co-chaired by Frank Favia, Melissa Kearney and Jodi McNally, the sold-out event included gourmet food, signature drinks and exclusive after-hours access to Lincoln Park Zoo which is one of the nation’s last remaining free admission zoos in the world. Thanks to décor by Flower Firm, a luxury tent was reminiscent of a South Beach celebration with young, hip Chicagoans dancing to the beat of DJ Rock City and enjoying cutting edge cocktails. Nibbles were offered from some of Chicago’s best restaurants including GT Fish & Oyster and Mercadito. Luxury raffle winners took home incredible prizes: a Bulgari handbag, two round trip tickets to Europe courtesy of United Airlines and a custom Lilly Pulitzer bicycle. Seen on the scene were Ryan Chiaverini, emcee Billy Dec, Café Spiaggia Executive Chef Sarah Grueneberg, LPZ President and CEO Kevin Bell, Rockit Ranch’s Arturo Gomez and Akira’s Jon Cotay among many others. (Photos by Jaclyn Simpson Photography.)

I met Karen Wojcikowski at Gene & Georgetti’s and I think she is someone you should know. She is the founder and president of The Bully Police Squad, an organization she created after receiving numerous cases of reported bullying, many of which have involved death. Karen, a Chicago police officer with 15 years of service, is a life coach and public speaker, speaking to schools, parents, teachers and children on the effects of bullying and educates them in the process. She hopes to establish a national hotline for bullying victims and parents and is in the process of writing her first book, “Stop the Bull.” To learn more about the Bully Police Squad and how you can help, please click here or call their 24-hour toll-free number at 800-914-1873 and don’t worry, they never let any call go unanswered. Great job Karen and congrats! (Karen is in the process of completing her Master’s at Penn State University.) Hello, Chicago Tribune! I have a Remarkable Woman candidate for YOU!

The 63rd Annual Old Town Art Fair was one of the best ones yet! We live in the heart of Old Town and every year, I can’t wait to hear the little hammers hard at work outside my door with artists building their booths for one of the largest juried art fairs in the country! With 300 artists participating this year and more than 50 private gardens open to the public, many for the first time, this was a weekend to remember. There was great festival food from Adobo Grill, Stanley’s Kitchen & Tap, Phil Stefani’s, Caroll’s Corn Crib and more. Music by Brad Cole Music and Check With Lucy made the weekend simply perfect! It was pretty awesome people watching, too! Check out this Watch312.com video and see what I mean!

The Museum of Broadcast Communications celebrated its 25th anniversary on June 12th. More than 400 guests came out to see legends of television including Betty White, Hugh Downs and John Mahoney at the MBC’s new location at 360 N. State, which also served as its unofficial grand opening. (The official ribbon cutting occurred the following morning.) With 62,000 square feet, this building houses the National Radio Hall of Fame, sets and costumes from “Bozo’s Circus,” puppets such as Charlie McCarthys, vintage radios and TVs, one of the cameras used in the Kennedy-Nixon debate, a former “Meet the Press” set and a studio dedicated to Paul and Angel Harvey among many other objects of interest. Collections span more than 25,000 TV programs, 5,000 radio shows and 12,000 commercials totalling almost 100,000 hours of viewing. The evening began with a welcome from founder, president and CEO Bruce Dumont followed by comments from Richard Price (event co-chair and chairman and CEO of Mesirow), Pam Cullerton (event co-chair/civic leader) and Cheryl Pearson-McNeil (SVP of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen). Hugh Downs spoke next and recounted his first TV appearance: “It was 67 years ago and my first spot was in September of 1945. I was asked to do a newscast. The lights began to heat up and by the end of it, sweat was all over my seersucker suit, which I thought was a good thing because it kept me from catching fire.” (He also went on to say that, “The really innovative stuff came out of Chicago.”) John Mahoney introduced Betty White as “one of the most talented people in the world.” She quipped, “Boy, have I got YOU fooled!” and went on to say, “I’ve lusted after him for so long and he finally did my show. And it STILL didn’t happen.” (I whispered to Betty that she was the only woman I knew who could cuss like a trooper and still be elegant! Her smile was from ear to ear…LOVE that lady!) Lucky guests included Keith Magee (my sweet host), Carol Marin, Dan Rutherford, Tom Dreesen, Larry Wert, Marty Wilke, Joe Ahern, Dean Richards, Terry Hemmert, Rich Koz, Theresa Gutierrez, Lyn McKeaney, Rob Johnson, Brenda Arelano, Steve Starr, Kathy Brock, Barb and Roe Conn, Thea Flom, Mancow, Pat Brickhouse, Roderick Hawkins, Melissa Kennedy, Alan Krashesky, Paul Harvey Jr., Toby Eveland, Caroline Cracraft, Stephen Lewis and Alonzo Brown among others. For more info, please visit www.museum.tv. (Pics by Steve Starr and moi…view more here!)

That’s all for this week! Hope you enjoyed the Style Network’s second "Chicagolicious" show Monday night – I know I sure did!!! May your flowers not wilt and may the force of summer be with you!!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Click here for a story that will make you go "awwwwwwww!"

A FANTASY ISLAND FOR FRIENDS OF PRENTICE GALA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

September 12, 2011 · 7:55 pm

CHIC CHAPEAUX AT PARKWAYS LUNCHEON BENEFITS KIDS’ CAMP

This much I know for sure: Hats and high winds just don’t mix! But this fact didn’t keep 500+ ladies from donning their best chapeaux for Parkways' Ninth Annual Garden Party in the beautiful Tiffany & Co. Foundation Celebration Garden on Thursday, Sept. 8th. This year’s event, co-chaired by Carol Prins and April Shink, raised more than $275,000 which will be used to support the Send a Kid to Camp Fund along with nature and environmental science programming designed to get kids outdoors, active and connected to nature. Proceeds from the Garden Party will enable 3,500 kids to attend camp and will engage 10,000 more children and their families throughout the city to experience the wonder of nature in more than 550 parks. This year, one of the founding members of Parkways, Donna LaPietra along with Bill Kurtis, emceed a paddle raise that brought in an extra $21,000 giving guests the opportunity to further support the Camp Fund. Blue Cross Blue/Shield of Illinois was the recipient of the Jens Jensen Award and Jo Ann Nathan was honored with the Council Ring Outstanding Volunteer Award. I know Jo Ann and this award couldn’t have been given to a more worthy volunteer. She has been involved with Parkways since its inception and served as director of the Jens Jensen Legacy Project. She also co- authored “Inspired by Nature: The Garfield Park Conservatory and Chicago’s West Side” as well as serving on many other related committees and boards. Congrats Jo Ann! Since 1994, Parkways Foundation has raised more than $30 million for Chicago’s parks to enrich communities through historic preservation, environmental initiatives, capital projects and youth/family programs. We have one of the most extensive systems in the country with more than 550 parks, 250 field houses, 33 beaches, nine museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 wildlife gardens and more than 9,000 annual programs, including summer camp for 30,000 kids each year. WHEW! That’s a lot of fundraising efforts since tax dollars alone can’t do it all. And despite the high winds on this day, the weather was perfect…sunny and bright with mild temps. Just the kind of setting to show off the last of your summer outfits with some great (and not-so-great) hats! The ladies mixed and mingled amidst the last flowers of the season while the gorgeous skyline added the perfect backdrop to the many photographers’ pics. After cocktails, the ladies moved inside the massive tent for the luncheon where whimsical hat designs were the centerpieces at every table. Created by the kids from the Teen Leadership Club at Jesse Owens Park, these charming little hats brought the message home to all attendees just why they were there. If you would like to learn more about this worthwhile organization or donate, please visit www.parkways.org. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins)

TOPSHOP/TOPMAN had one of the biggest store openings I’ve seen in a long, long time. It started earlier this year with a very private dinner at Henri as a sort of meet-and-greet and continued this week in a very big way. There was a private shopping day, a runway show featuring their Brit-inspired looks for Fall/Winter 2011 (hosted by Brittney Payton) and a ribbon cutting ceremony with founder Sir Philip Green, his beautiful daughter Chloe AND surprise guest Miley Cyrus! There was also a by-invite-only dinner at Paris Club on Wednesday, Sept. 7th. One hundred eighty guests showed up for an elegant sit-down dinner. The entire restaurant had been reserved for this party that was planned entirely by TOPSHOP. They left nothing to chance even planning the exquisite white floral arrangements spread throughout the room. It was elegance all the way including the French-inspired menu choices that included chicken paillard, halibut with mushroom veloute, French green beans, Provencal vegetable plate and a truffled chicken terrine among other delicious offerings. The tables were peppered with TOPSHOP honchos giving all of the guests a chance to talk shop with the pros. Their future plans include expanding stores into New York, California and Las Vegas. Pretty soon, every TOP city in the world will have a TOPSHOP! I also hear their personal shopping department is incredible! I love the choices for reasonably priced wardrobe options in our city now. The days are over for most people as far as spending thousands of dollars on clothing. At least I know mine are! Congrats to TOPSHOP for bringing their fun-loving clothing line to town. And, as I told CEO Ian Grabiner, not only do I enjoy the store but I am doubly glad to know it’s run by a lot of very, very nice people! (To view ALL event photos, please click HERE!)

Chicago’s stylish set was dancing with joy up and down Michigan Avenue for the last two weeks during “In Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival” which included our city’s first version of “Fashion Night Out” for its finale on Thursday, Sept. 8th. FNO began in New York in 2009 as a global initiative to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence and boost the industry’s economy. It was a runaway success with more than 100 cites across the U.S. participating this year. During the course of Chicago’s evening finale, stores planned a night of fun-filled activities that brought out the stars. The 900 Shops hosted “Fame, Fashion and Flavor” featuring Bravo’s Brad Goreski in its Tzar VIP Lounge as well as a flash fashion show, beauty bazaars, photo booth, in-store celebrations and giveaways. The Shops at North Bridge included styling tips from Chicago magazine’s fashion director Stacey Jones and style editor Heiji Choy Black while Water Tower Place hosted a fashion party and a cookbook signing by “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Teresa Guidice. Flashing strobe lights lit up Neiman Marcus’ entryway while inside its plans included a fall trends runway show, Chicago Bulls’ Kyle Korver, tastings from local restaurants, a Factor Model search, a DJ and live fashion illustrations. Saks Fifth Avenue spotlighted handsome and uber talented shoe designer Brian Atwood for the official unveiling of its new shoe salon, 10022-SHOE. He graciously signed his signature stilettos and posed for pics while the 500+ crowd of admirers sipped champagne and swayed to the sounds of DJ Madrid. He also shared a little scoop with me: He is newly engaged to long-time love and handsome hunk himself, Dr. Jake Deutsch! Jake proposed to Brian on his birthday in a chapel in the Greek Islands after a 2 ½ year courtship. My only question to Jake was, “What took so long?!” They are the perfect couple and are blissfully happy! Chair of In-Fashion and Director of PR for ULTA Beauty, Carrie Lannon, along with her 50-strong committee, created an event to remember and are already planning next year’s celebrations. Congrats to Chi-Town on our first Fashion Night Out, Chair Extraordinaire Carrie Lannon, all of the participating stores, Amanda Puck, Julie Selakovich, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel and Brian and Jake!!! Can’t wait to see what magical fashion fun next year brings!!! (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click HERE!)

Thanks to “Windy City Live” for having me on again recently! I appeared in a segment with Time Out Chicago’s features editor, Laura Baginski, as she discussed their latest issue about Playboy (on newsstands now). I brought my Playboy Bunny ears and made Val and Laura wear them while I gave a little show-and-tell about my long history with Playboy. My friends teased me about being such a saver concerning the memorabilia I had brought but I SAVE everything! Good news and bad news! But I am very happy to have my Bunny costume. Complete sets have sold on eBay for over $10,000! Gerard Butler and Kerry Wood were guests on the show this day, too; check it out below. (I hope you like it!)

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Common Threads ‘Associate Board is hosting its first annual Cook-Off on Thursday, September 15th at Fulton’s on the River, located at 315 N. LaSalle, from 6:30-9 PM. With this new theme, 27 chefs will create and serve their favorite dish either in a glass, on a bun, in a shell or on a stick. Guests will then vote for their favorite in each category and may the BEST chef win! VIP tickets are $150, general admission is $75. For more info, please call Erica Stimac at 312.329.2501, ext. 208, or email Erica@commonthreads.org.

And now for something completely different! For the second year, Studio L’Amour, presents “Superstars of Burlesque” at the Park West at 322 W. Armitage on Friday, September 16th. This show is described as “the most ambitious and spectacular burlesque show ever to hit Chicago.” Every performer in this one-night-only event holds a title from the Burlesque Hall of Fame (the industry’s highest honor). Performers scheduled include Michelle L’Amour (2005), Indigo Blue (the Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2011), Dirty Martini (2004) and Roxi D’Lite (2010) among others. World’s Best Group 2011, The Stage Door Johnnies, is also scheduled to perform along with Trixie Little and Evil Hate Monkey. These names alone make me want to go! I can’t wait to see what Studio L’Amour has in store (a little rhyme, get it?). It also doesn’t hurt that one of my favorite emcees, Murray Hill, will be doing the hosting duties! There will be two shows on Friday, at 8 PM and 10 PM. Tickets are only $25 and can be purchased at the door, online or at Taboo, Tabou, located at 845 W. Belmont. See you there!

And, finally a huge congrats to Dr. Stacie McClane and JAM Productions' Jerry Mickelson on their recent engagement! I attended a party in their honor at the Peninsula recently and the love in the room was palpable. Stacie’s darling daughter and mom were in attendance along with friends. The event was hosted by Yvette Cusack, Kate Covington, Dusty Stemer, Jean Antoniou and Sherry Lea Holson. Congrats, Stacie and Jerry!

That’s the lowdown on this week’s MANY highlights! I hope to “see” you next week, same time, same place. Thanks also to all who voted for my blog in the CBS contest. I will let you know the results, good or bad as soon as I know! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I also hope you can join me on Thursday, Sept. 15th, for AUTHOR TALKS presented by the Chicago Tribune. Authors Jacquelyn Mitchard (“Second Nature, A Love Story”) and Elizabeth Berg (“Once Upon a Time, There Was You”) will be discussing their upcoming books at a reception hosted by Literary Editor Elizabeth Taylor. The event will begin at 6:30 PM at the Tribune Tower, located at 435 N. Michigan, and tickets are only $20.

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July 26, 2011 · 12:42 pm

TWO CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS HOLD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS: GENE & GEORGETTI AND KATHY O’MALLEY!

Gene & Georgetti owners, Marion and Tony Durpetti, welcomed hundreds of guests over the course of three days as they recently celebrated the 70th anniversary of their legendary restaurant located at 500 N. Franklin. For this momentous occasion, they featured 1940’s décor and offered a prix-fixe, four course menu with old-time favorites that included stuffed celery, minestrone soup, mostaccioli, anchovy canapés, broiled strips, filets and pork chops, chicken Vesuvio and whitefish. Sides included sautéed spinach, broiled mushrooms and cottage fried potatoes. The entire bill (excluding tax and gratuity) was only $15.25. You can certainly see why reservations went faster than Paul McCartney tickets. Guests were seen sipping Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, Rob Roys and Hiballs as they enjoyed the Lucille Ball, Carmen Miranda, Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and Veronica Lake impersonators. Magician David Kovac enchanted the crowd before the big band, Sway, began at 8:30 with a cake cutting ceremony that included all of the guests. General Manager, Richard Ciota, said, “I don’t work a day in my life. These guys are like my family.” The restaurant served 1,100 lunches and dinners each day and night with ALL proceeds benefitting Common Threads, The Standing Tall Foundation and St. Vincent DePaul Center. Congrats also to Tony and Marion’s daughter, Michelle, for planning and promoting this great three-day celebration for wonderful causes!

Chicago’s Hostess with the Mostest, Kathy O’Malley Piccone, celebrated her 50th birthday in grand style at Moe’s Cantina recently. We have been friends for years and years (truth be known, since Faces days…all of you over 50 will know what I mean!) and she has always been one of the nicest people I know. It’s no wonder Gibson’s is so very successful having her at the front desk meeting and greeting every customer like they are long lost friends. And, in many cases, they are! She’s been featured on the cover of TCW in their “Powerful Women” issue and in many other articles and publications. She should’ve run for Mayor! Her long-time friend, BJ Murray, had been at Moe’s all day inputting tons of photos which were shown on the multiple video screens throughout the venue. Hundreds of friends showed up and stayed into the wee hours of the morning. Long may she reign! Love you Kath! Happy BD!!! (To view more party pics, most by Steve Starr, click here.)

Old St. Pat’s recently celebrated two days of music, food and fun at their 27th Annual World’s Largest Block Party. This is one of the most anticipated events of the summer with almost 20,000 people attending this year. Dubbed the “party with a purpose,” this event featured music by Farraday, Plain White T’s, Cobra Starship, Out for Hours, Spazmatics, No Love for Linus, Matt Nathanson and Barenaked Ladies. The food stands held all of the expected delights of a summer festival and then some including BBQ from Robinson’s Ribs, rotisserie chicken and pork and corn on the cob from Nicholas Quality Meats, Good Humor ice cream, Quang Noodles’ crab Rangoon, pad Thai and shrimp fried rice, burgers and brats from Old St. Pat's Grill & Bones Grill, funnel cakes, foot-long corn dogs, Wisconsin cheddar cheese curds and coconut shrimp from Suzie’s Fun Foods and Connie’s Pizza. In a word, heaven! As one of the celebrity bartenders, I even learned how to pour a perfect cup of beer! FYI, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy was a run away winner! Other celeb bartenders included Windy City Live’s Ryan Chiaverini, NBC 5 reporter Anthony Ponce, Fox 32 meteorologist Tammie Souza, Fox 32 reporter and anchor Kori Chambers, WGN-TV anchor Lourdes Duarte and ABC 7 reporter John Garcia among others. This event is also a matchmaker’s dream come true having introduced 102 couples, who are now married, after meeting at this Block Party! So mark your calendars now for next year…maybe YOU could be next!!! Proceeds from this event goes towards Old St. Pat’s dozens of global outreach programs. (To view ALL pics, with additional photos by Gary Chang, please click here).

Four hundred guests dressed in their Sunday best to attend Bright Pink's "For the Women We Love" high tea celebration. Celeb TV's Kelli Zink emceed the fourth annual benefit, which raised over $80,000, and also included musical entertainment by former Broadway performer, Laurie Akers, who sang Rascal Flatts' "I Won't Let Go." There were heartfelt and empowering stories from young women in the Bright Pink community as well as the presentation of the "Bright Impact Award" which was presented to Carolyn Brundage, the founder of Pretty City. This successful entrepreneur and beauty columnist has raised nearly $100,000 through her "Pretty in Pink" campaign which benefits breast cancer charities. Bright Pink founder, Lindsay Avner, has created much needed awareness with her organization that supports, enlightens and empowers young women to be proactive with their breast and ovarian health. To learn more and for donations, please visit www.bebrightpink.org. (To view ALL event pics by Steve Feferman, please click here!)

Congrats to another great year for PAWS! Their 9th Annual All Paws on Deck Beach Party was a tail-wagging success! US99’s Lisa Dent, who was the emcee again this year, auctioned off some exciting packages that included two tickets to “Dancing With the Stars” (won again this year by Tails in the City’s Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh). Judy and Howard Tullman won the right to showcase their five “kids” next year in the always hotly anticipated PAWS poster. This year’s benefit was chaired by Nancy and Ron Officer along with Dawn and Jim O’Neal. PAWS founder, Paula Fasseas, welcomed guests Deborah and Bruce Crown, last year’s co-chair Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Kim Gleeson, Alexis Fasseas, Kathy Hinton, Christine and John Mallul, Carol and John Walter, Carole Mack, Gigi Ross, Sue and Wes Dixon, Dr. Barbara Royal, Colleen Garard, Lindsay Carlton, Len Goodman, Angie DeMars and Cheri Lawrence to name a few. Presenting sponsors included North Community Bank, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock and Pomellato. This event raised $212,000 this year. Congrats PAWS and keep up the good work in support of our beloved four-legged friends! Mark your calendars now for the Fur Ball coming to the Drake Hotel on Friday, November 11th. For tickets and more info, please visit www.pawschicago.org.

The Service Club of Chicago’s “Day on the Terrace” luncheon and fashion show is just around the corner, August 1st, and I hope you all have your tickets for this 25th annual event which promises to be a show stopping fashion extravaganza featuring real women and men wearing the best Fall 2011 fashions from Chicago’s premier retailers. Participating stores include Escada, Intermix, Luca Luca, Tory Burch, Paul Stuart, Lulu’s at the Belle Kay, Saks Fifth Avenue Men, Mark Shale Women’s and Men’s and a finale presented by Neiman Marcus that will include selections from their evening wear and fur collections. The event, which will be held at the Peninsula, was the first event ever held at this hotel when it first opened 10 years ago. Fashion Chairs include Jean Antoniou, Tracey Di Buono and Hazel Barr. Look for some celebrity guest appearances, too! All proceeds from this popular event benefits the Service Club, which supports grants established by government or corporate entities. Tickets are $175. For tix and more info, please call Jean Antoniou at 630.564.5700.

Congrats to UBS for giving back! Two hundred UBS volunteers participated for the Special Olympics Softball Competition Day at Grant Park this year. This is the 13th year that UBS volunteers have totally produced the two days of fun activities supporting Special Olympic athletes. UBS Head of Community Affairs, Patrick Sheahan, said, “It’s a very fulfilling and rewarding event. Every athlete is a winner and every athlete walks away with a medal.” This year, there were more than 750 participants. Congrats to UBS for being such an excellent example of corporate responsibility!

Step Up Women’s Network will launch its first signature event in Chicago, “Shine & Dine,” on Thursday, August 18th, at Galleria Marchetti beginning at 6 PM. The evening will feature philanthropy and seasonal fare from Chicago’s hottest restaurants while welcoming 400 local professionals and notables. Valerie Warner, co-host of Windy City Live, will serve as Honorary Charo for this inaugural event. Step Up Managing Director, Gina Marotta, said, “Step Up has been a fixture in Chicago for five years and this special event is the perfect way to celebrate our work with local women and girls, as well as attract new enthusiasts to our cause.” I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please visit www.suwn.org.

Congrats are in order for friends Leslie Hindman, Amanda Puck and Debra Baum! Leslie had a fantastic half-page article by Melissa Harris in Sunday’s Tribune about her expanding business empire! She will be opening up new locations in Palm Beach and Milwaukee (she recently opened in Naples, too) and she’s busier than ever! Amanda has started a food blog and it’s fantastic! Who better to write about food than AMANDA?! And last but not least, Debra also has a new website devoted to health issues for women over 30. It will have daily updates with a dose of humor!

Good luck and congrats to one and all!!! I hope you are enjoying my new column in the Chicago Tribune called “Chicago Scene.” I am so proud to be the new social columnist for this venerable newspaper that has just been through a major overhaul! My column appears weekly in the Sunday Magazine section, full page, full color! 🙂

And lastly, the launch is coming soon for www.Watch312.com, an online network of Chicago-centric shows! This network and its team of experts from Illinois Center for Broadcasting will provide viewers with a portal connecting them to everything Windy City! DC Crenshaw’s show, "Chicago Unplugged," covers the restaurant scene from top to bottom and everything in-between while Dr. Sandy Goldberg’s call-in show, "LIVE! With Dr. Sandy," will address nutritional and health concerns in a non traditional yet informative way. Her co-host is radio veteran Scott Mackay. As the host for “Social Circles,” I will be bringing you a behind-the-scenes look into charity events, parties, movie premieres, celebrities, nightlife and more! Check it out and let me know what you think! We are still in the early stages with lots of tweaking to do but I wanted to make you aware of all of the excitement to come!!! 🙂

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

And THAT is the lowdown on Chicago’s MANY highlights for this week! Hope to “see” you next week, same time, same place!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here is an inspiring video that will put our petty, daily concerns in the right perspective. This young Chinese girl began playing the piano three years ago and she plays masterfully, despite the fact that she has no fingers on her right hand. Miracles are all around us if we just look for them.