Tag Archives: President Obama

January 25, 2013 · 1:04 pm

WOOD AND DEJESUS WARM UP & STRIKE A POSE!

…PLUS INAUGURATION (CELEBS & PARTIES), THODOS TURNS 21, JAN’S OSCAR SWAG, BLACK CREATIVITY GALA, TICKLED PINK, CHEEKIEST CHICKS OF 2013, EMERGE! IS ON FOR NYFW, SHELLEY’S “THING CALLED LOVE,” CHEF ART'S BIG BASH, MY TOP 2012 VIDEO MOMENTS ON WATCH312 AND SO MUCH MORE!

It was the second annual Woody’s Winter Warm-Up hosted by beloved former Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood and his beautiful wife, Sarah. I attended the inaugural event last year and it seemed to double in size this time,
which I was thrilled to see! Everyone wants to support this charitable pair and there were more than 400 guests at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier to celebrate. The line snaked down the hallway with early arrivals and you could hear the excited voices as soon as you entered the building. Trolleys had been
scheduled to bring all of the players from the Cubs Convention on Friday night to Navy Pier so there were a lot of anxious PR people working their radios – at one point, I heard that a driver
had gotten lost! The red carpet was co-hosted by two of my favorite people, Windy City Live’s Ryan Chiaverini and Whitney Reynolds (who will be hosting her own show on WTTW coming soon!). The press was out in force for this party that included sports stars past and
present, media personalities and top-notch entertainment. Emceed by radio personality Pete McMurray and TV/radio
show host Jane Monzures, the night included meet-and-greet opportunities, an open bar, dinner buffet and a raffle with ALL proceeds benefitting the Wood Family Foundation (WFF). A silent auction included sports memorabilia such as signed
jerseys from Cubs Hall of Famers Ernie Banks and Fergie Jenkins, a signed retirement flag from Banks, a Kerry Wood signed jersey, a W flag signed by players,
numerous signed baseballs (lucky collector Tom Strehle nabbed one signed by Billy Williams) and a football signed by Mike Ditka with a bottle of Ditka merlot thrown in for good measure. Guests enjoyed
musical performances by rock n’ roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason and R&B singer Gina Venier but the group that brought the house down was Chi-Town’s Finest Breakers! These five
siblings, ranging in age from 7 to 14 years old, have appeared on Ellen and Oprah and were back-up dancers for Justin Bieber. Their acrobatic skills were a sight to behold: Spinderella holds the world record for the longest head spin at
more than 15 minutes! DJ Greg Corner (an Obama favorite) started and finished the night with some eclectic tunes with a highlight of the evening
happening near the end when Cubs players signed their bartending shirts and auctioned them off to the crowd. Guests seen on the scene included Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, Matt Garza, Darwin Barney, Starlin Castro, David and Kim DeJesus, Jeff Samardzija, Travis Wood,
James Russell, Wellington Castro, Tom Ricketts, Theo Epstein, Cheryl Scott, Peggy Kusinski, Stefan Holt, Kathy Hart, Rafer Weigel, Showbiz Shelley, AJ Johnson, Megan and Lance Josh Needle, Trevor Mosvaugh, Grant
DePorter, Shawn Camp, Nick Struck, DC Crenshaw, Glaros, Nick Roach, Jody Davis, Josh Vitters, Anthony Rizzo, Tom Strehle, Daphne Ortiz, Dale, Sveum, Kelli Zink, Luis Gomez, Hannah
O’Leary, Beth Heller, Laurie Dimakos, Kate Gaddi and Tony Campana. All proceeds from the evening (more than $100K) benefitted the Wood Family Foundation, which works to improve the
lives of children in and around Chicago by raising funds and awareness for its children’s programs and other children’s charities they support. This year, Sarah announced that the organization opened the Wood Family Foundation
playroom on the oncology floor at Lurie Children’s, broke ground on Kerry Wood Cubs Field, held a free baseball clinic in Englewood, supplied more than 400 coats and toys to Nash Elementary and, for the first
time, will be sending a student to UIC on a full scholarship. I was told that near the end of the evening, Kerry even paid out of his own pocket to extend the party! I heard many other stories
this night about the generosity of the Wood family and I stand in awe. Congrats Sarah and Kerry on all of your many good works! I can’t wait to see what next year brings! To learn more about the WFF, please click here.

Good deeds seems to be the hallmark of our Chicago Cubs as outfielder David DeJesus and his wife Kim hosted more than 275 guests at the River East Arts Center on January 17th for their inaugural Strike a Pose Fashion Show benefitting
their non-profit, the David DeJesus Family Foundation. The show featured Cubs players and their wives walking the runway in fashions from the 900 North Michigan Shops, Peach Carr Designs and Two Penny Blue. NBC’s Cheryl Scott welcomed everyone before taking to the runway and host David DeJesus enlisted the help of teammate Anthony Rizzo to help announce the show. The evening raised more than
$180K to help in the fight against ALS. Kim and David presented a video
that featured their dear friend Brian Schnurstein (who was in attendance) and his personal struggle since being diagnosed with this disease. Brian’s wife, Lindsay, spoke eloquently and from the heart about the affects ALS has had on
her family. Guests enjoyed cocktails and food from some of Chicago’s hottest restaurants while listening to the sounds of DJ Kasper K. The live and silent
auctions raised about $80K and featured courtside Bulls tickets, a diamond necklace, field lessons with David DeJesus and autographed sports memorabilia. Runway VIPs included Kerry and Sarah Wood, Darwin and Lindsay Barney,
Shawn Camp, Tony Campana, Starlin Castro, Steve Clevenger, Scott Feldman, Brett Jackson, Anthony Rizzo, James Russell, Ian Stewart, Travis and Brittany Wood, Matt Garza and “The Bachelorette” winner Ed
Swiderski. VIP guests in attendance included designer Peach Carr (Project Runway Season 8 and Project Runway All Stars Season 2), Tom, Pete and Todd Ricketts, Chef Art Smith, Cubs president of operations Theo Epstein
and wife Marie Whitney (Two Penny Blue), Patrick Mannelly (Chicago Bear) and Dave Kaplan (Comcast). “It has been a longtime desire to host a charity event in our hometown of Chicago,” said David. “We felt it was only natural to make our first fundraiser dedicated to raising funds for research, patient care and family support for those suffering from ALS.” “We are excited to give ALS a voice in this city!” added Kim. For more info, visit the foundation's website. (To see ALL event pics by Hallie Duesenberg, click here!)

I was thrilled to cover so many fabulous Chicago parties last year for my Watch312.com show, "Candid Candace Chicago." I hope you enjoy some of my favorite moments below! 🙂

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Celebrity Chef Art Smith hosted a late night Chef’s Ball at his hot Washington, D.C. restaurant, Art & Soul (located in The Liaison Capitol Hill Affinia Hotel) on January 19th to
celebrate President Obama’s inauguration with Washingtonians, visitors, friends and the D.C. restaurant community in attendance. (Executive Chef Wes Morton co-chaired the Ball with
Art). A portion of the proceeds from the evening benefitted Common Threads, a non-profit founded by Art and partner Jesus Salguiero that helps low-income children understand the
importance of nutrition and physical well-being. Five additional D.C. chefs prepared late night bites for the event, as well, with some of the proceeds also benefitting their charities of choice. They included Erik Bruner-Yang (chef/owner Toki Underground), Scott
Drewno (executive chef The Source), Todd Gray (co-owner/chef Equinox Restaurant), Rock Harper
(Hell’s Kitchen Season 3 winner and director of Kitchen Operations, D.C. Central Kitchen) and Mike Isabella (Top Chef All-Stars finalist and chef/owner Graffiato, Kapnos and G). “Washington, D.C. is a burgeoning food town and when Americans
visit our nation’s capital they should expect to eat well and party well into the morning,” said Chef Art Smith. “I’ve invited some of the most talented chefs I know in D.C. to help host a ball that chefs and foodies can enjoy while raising funds for their charities and showcasing some of the best food D.C. has to offer!” (Don’t miss Art and Jesus’ next BIG Chicago event, World Festival, on March 4th – details here!)

More inaugural party news with Oscar winner Jamie Foxx and rapper will.I.Am kicking off the Hennessy V.S Inauguration Takeover at the swanky Park at 14th in
Washington, D.C. Foxx took over the event performing for more than two hours and brought the packed house down as he sang several songs from his catalog including “Unpredictable” and
“Blame It” as well as popular songs that included “All Gold Everything” by Trinidad James and A$AP Rocky's hit song “F*ckin' Problems.” will.I.Am also performed with NY Giants
superstar Victor Cruz and radio personality Big Tigger. Foxx got a chance to visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial and said, “Please know that we're living in spectacular times for
African Americans.” He also gave a shout-out to his "Django Unchained" co-stars and shared these thoughts: “Thank you for your support of this film. Every day on the set, I thought of you and how you would enjoy this film. The only thing that mattered after we did that movie was if black folks liked it. It was about respecting you guys.” (Photos courtesy of Jeff Dormeus.)

Don’t miss the exciting Thodos Dance Company’s 21st anniversary gala, 21 Club, at the Chicago Cultural Center on Saturday, February 2nd. TDC founder/artistic director Melissa Thodos and Tony Award-winning Broadway star and frequent TDC collaborator Ann Reinking will preview their latest creative collaboration A Light in the Dark, the
story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan. NBC 5 news anchor Kim Vatis will emcee this special evening that will be themed to New York’s historic restaurant and prohibition-era speakeasy, the 21 Club. Co-chaired by Reinking and guest artist Gary Chryst, the gala will be capped off with a performance by the Thodos Dance Chicago Youth Ensemble. For tickets, $275, and more info, please click here or call 312.266.6255.

HUGE congrats to Jan Lewis, wife of legendary jazz man Ramsey Lewis: Her beautiful jewelry has been selected for inclusion in the prestigious Everybody Wins at the Oscars Nominee Bag! The
unique, eye catching, hand crafted Fair Trade bangles will be hand delivered the morning after the Oscars telecast to all of the nominees and host Seth MacFarlane. “I started this business focused only on creating a new line, a new
look, for discriminating women who appreciate unique, moderately priced jewelry,” Ms. Lewis said. “My focus was also on Fair Trade. Each bangle is a one-of-a-kind piece and all of our jewelry is individually hand crafted by our artists in India who are paid a fair wage.”

I hope to see you at Saturday (1/26) night’s 30th annual Black Creativity Gala at the Museum of Science and Industry! Honorary gala co-chairs are the Honorable Anne Burke, AARP’s Merri Dee and Northern Trust Bank’s Connie Lindsey. The night will include a juried exhibition of more than 100 pieces of artwork by African-
American artists from around the country. The evening’s proceeds will support the museum’s Black Creativity Program. For tickets ($350), contact Octavia Hooks at 773.947.3729 or visit www.msichicago.org.

Tickled Pink, one of the hottest parties for a great cause, returns to the River East Art Center on February 8th. This event was founded in 2005 after Carrie Kenney lost her seven-year battle with breast cancer the year before at the age of 35. Her cousin Jodi Fyfe gathered a group of close friends and colleagues to start Tickled Pink Chicago in honor of Carrie. For tickets ($95) and more info, please click here!

And now, The Joffrey Ballet’s Women’s Board presents something special for Valentine’s Day! Chicago’s own Shelley MacArthur will star in a benefit performance called “What is This Thing Called Love?” on February 14th (of course!) at the Murphy Auditorium, located at 50 E. Erie St. A lavish pre-performance cocktail
reception begins at 6 p.m. followed by a 7:15 p.m. show. Shelley’s special guests include Rodrick Dixon and Alfreda Burke with orchestration by The City Lights Orchestra conducted by Rich Daniels. For tickets ($350) and more info, please email love@joffrey.org or call 312.386.8921. Hope to see YOU there!

Congrats to all of the deserving Cheeky Chicks of 2013!! At a recent party at PUBLIC Hotel, honorees included Megan Chappell (founder of TruHarmony Yoga), Monika Dixon (prez of Monika Dixon PR), Meg Galus (exec pastry chef of NoMI Kitchen), Coco Meers (founder of PrettyQuick.com), Laura Modica (nightlife director at
PUBLIC Hotel), Shannon O’Brien (freelance makeup artist), Brittney Payton (host of “Chicago’s Best”); Lindsay Segal (co-founder of Luxury Garage Sale), Laura Schwartz (political correspondent and author) and Jenna Zielbauer (founder of Cotton Candy Couture). I also loved the fab write-up in the Sun-Times that featured CheekyChicago.com founders Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin! Woot woot!

Emerge!, the fashion collective showcasing local talent, returns during New York Fashion Week on February 12th! Produced and founded by Dionne Williams, this year’s Emerge! designers will include Parul Aneja (Gorgeous Ways), Deidre Jefferies (Espion Atelier), Bernice Morgan (Designersberg) and C. ‘Butterfli Tia’ Dunkley. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6 p.m. with the show and Innovator Award Ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. at the Broad Street Ballroom, located at 41 Broad St. in NYC. For more info, please call 312.243.9060, email Dionne@dwilliamspr.com or visit www.dwilliamspr.com.

A first!!!! I had such a thrill designing my very own handbag at the hot Lincoln Park store Laudi Vidni at 1007 W. Armitage! Co-founder Laura Kofoid approached me a while back and we finally had a chance to
meet over a design concept. Their philosophy empowers women to be their own brand, think outside the logo and gives them the opportunity to design high-quality leather handbags that reflect their own tastes and needs, not those of someone else. With more than 40
imported leathers to choose from and 10,000+ possible style combos, it was a daunting task but I can’t wait to share my design concept with you – I think it will be THE perfect clutch! An in-store celebration is planned to introduce my bag to the public so I hope you can join me! Details to follow! “We
believe fashion is limitless and the only ‘rule’ that should be followed is one that says do what you like,” said Kofoid. AMEN!

I’ll be returning to “Windy City Live” on February 25th to share some of my TOP parties for the month of March! I hope you will tune in and check out some of Chicago’s hottest happenings!

Loved the inauguration and loved seeing all of the cool fashions, especially on this glam pair! Hope you’re enjoying January and I hope to see you next week!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you or someone you know is interested in a career in television, radio, production, broadcasting or emerging media, check out the Illinois Centers for Broadcasting! I’m so exciting to be conducting a seminar at the Chicago campus on February 9th on entertainment reporting! During my video presentation using clips from my past shows, I'll share my dos and don’ts of the interview process with some of the top movie stars in the world! Sign up and see! (You must be an enrolled student). Hope to see you there!

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

Tagged as 21 Club, 900 North Michigan Shops, A Light in the Fark the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, AJ Johnson, Alfreda Burke, Ann Reinking, Anne Burke, Anthony Rizzo, Art & Soul, Bernice Morgan, Beth Heller, Beyonce, Big Tigger, Billy Williams, Black Creativity Gala, Brett Jackson, Brian Schnurstein, Brittany Wood, Brittney Payton, C. Butterflu Tia Dunkley, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carrie Kenney, Cheeky Chicks of 2013, CheekyChicago.com, Chef Art Smith, Chef Wes Morton, Cheryl Scott, Chi-Town Finest Breakers, Chicago’s Best, Coco Meers, Common Threads, Connie Lindsey, Cotton Candy Couture, D.C. Central Kitchen, Dale Sveum, Daphne Ortiz, Darwin Barney, Dave Kaplan, Dave Mason, David DeJesus, DC Crenshaw, Deidre Jefferies, Designersberg, Dionne Williams, DJ Greg Corner, DJ Kasper K, Django Unchained, Ed Swiderski, Ellen Degeneres, Emerge!, Equinox Restaurant, Erica Bethe Levin, Erik Bruner-Yang, Ernie Banks, ESPION Atelier, Everybody Wins at the Oscars, Fergie Jenkins, G, Gary Chryst, Gina Venier, Gorgeous Ways, Graffiato, Grant DePorter, Hannah O’Leary, Harry Caray’s Tavern, Hell’s Kitchen, Hennessy V.S Inauguration Takeover, Ian Stewart, Illinois Centers for Broadcasting, James Russell, Jamie Foxx, Jan Lewis, Jane Monzures, Jay-Z, Jeff Dormeus, Jeff Samardzija, Jenna Zielbauer, Jessica Zweig, Jesus Salguiero, Jodi Fyfe, Jody Davis, Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board, Josh Vitters, Justin Bieber, Kapnos, Kate Gaddi, Kathy Hart, Kelli Zink, Kerry Wood, Kim DeJesus, Kim Vatis, Lance Josh Needle, Laudi Vidni, Laura Kofoid, Laura Modica, Laura Schwartz, Laurie Dimakos, Lindsay Schnurstein, Lindsay Segal, Luis Gomez, Luxury Garage Sale, Marie Whitney, Martin Luther King Jr., Matt Garza, Meg Galus, Megan Chappel, Megan Needle, Melissa Thodos, Merri Dee, Mike Ditka, Mike Isabella, Monika Dixon, Monika Dixon PR, New York Fashion Week, Nick Roach, Nick Struck, NoMI Kitchen, NY Giants, Oprah Winfrey, Parul Aneja, Patrick Mannelly, Peach Carr Designs, Peggy Kusinski, Pete McMurray, Pete Ricketts, President Obama, PrettyQuick.com, Project Runway, PUBLIC Hotel, Rafer Weigel, Ramsey Lewis, Rich Daniels, Rock Harper, Rodrick Dixon, Ryan Chiaverini, Sarah Wood, Scott Drewno, Scott Feldman, Seth MacFarlane, Shannon O’Brien, Shawn Camp, Shelley MacArthur, Showbiz Shelley, Spinderella, Starlin Castro, Stefan Holt, Steve Clevenger, Strike a Pose Foundation, The City Lights Orchestra, The Source, Theo Epstein, Thodos Dance Chicago Youth Ensemble, Thodos Dance Company, Tickled Pink, Tickled Pink Chicago, Todd Gray, Todd Ricketts, Toki Underground, Tom Ricketts, Tom Strehle, Tony Campana, Top Chef All-Stars, Travis Wood, Trevor Mosvaugh, TruHarmony Yoga, Two Penny Blue, Victor Cruz, Wellington Castro, What is This Thing Called Love, Whitney Reynolds, will.I.Am, Windy City Live, Wood Family Foundation, Woody’s Winter Warm-Up, World Festival

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!

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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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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

July 25, 2012 · 10:28 am

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BALL’S BIG SURPRISE: THE VILLAGE PEOPLE!

…PLUS PAWS-ITIVELY BEACHY, FIELD MUSEUM IS WILD ABOUT HARRY, THE DARK KNIGHT'S CHICAGO PREMIERE, A ST. TROPEZ CHIC DESIGNER, WHITE HOUSE HONORS FOR PAUL, A GIANT NY BOOK LAUNCH, TOM STREHLE’S PERFECT PITCH, A SPECIAL 50TH AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo hosted its 35th annual Zoo Ball in one of my favorite venues! As 1,000 black-tie clad guests entered the zoo grounds through the East Gate, they were greeted by more than 30,000 feet of dramatic sweeping tents. Earlier in the day, one of the tents came down due to heavy rain but all was well by the time the event began. During the cocktail reception across from the Kovler Lion House, one could hear the big cats roaring their approval as guests raised funds to keep them supplied with kitty food. The Feed a Friend Program offered supporters the opportunity to donate for various zoo animals and receive a corresponding stuffed animal to show their support. Levels included $100 to feed a gibbon family for three months all the way up to $15,000 to feed a gorilla family for a year. It was a great way to get guests involved in the zoo as well as raise funds. And for those who didn’t want to take the stuffed toys, they could be donated to Lurie Children’s Hospital which has a floor sponsored by the Zoo. Themed “The Great Catsby” and presented by Guggenheim (who underwrote the evening’s dinner in its entirety), the event was co-chaired by Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Polayes with Honorary Chair Anne Pramaggiore. Women’s Board President Abby Zanarini welcomed the crowd and thanked Guggenheim and J.N. Pritzker/Tawani Foundation/Pritzker Military Library for their continued support. She also acknowledged Barbara Higgins (Allstate), Anne Pramaggiore (ComEd), John Alexander (Chairman of the Board) and Kevin Bell (Zoo President and CEO). Event Creative’s Jeffrey Foster helped bring the chairs’ décor vision to life: An elegant Hampton’s vibe included masses of blue hydrangeas and twinkling chandeliers as well as a stage that resembled a white gate complete with hedge walls. Auction Chair Bridget Campbell arranged a vast array of silent auction items in the chic Leopard Lounge that included Andrea Bocelli box seats (sold for $5K), Master’s golf package (two passes for all four days sold for $19K), a one week stay at the Four Seasons Costa Rica (sold for $6K), a signed Joakim Noah jersey, Ryder Cup tickets and so much more! Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from J & L Catering that included mini Black Forest ham, gruyere and Dijon panini fingers; Maryland crab cakes; vegetable spring rolls; maple-glazed dates; and mini corn muffins with tomatillo-braised chicken. Following the reception, a recorded lion’s roar summoned guests into dinner. Against the musical backdrop of Rendezvous, guests enjoyed delicious tenderloin with caramelized shallots, fingerling potatoes and succotash and a dessert of strawberry shortcake, key lime tart with Michigan berries and chocolate ganache. The highlight of the evening came when surprise performers The Village People were introduced. As guests jammed the dance floor, this popular 1970’s disco group performed their hits “Macho Man” and “In the Navy.” They whipped the crowd into a frenzy with their closing number “YMCA” amid a sea of camera flashes. It was so exciting – how in the world they kept this a secret, I’ll never know! Seen on the scene were Barbara Higgins and Daniel Glynn, Tina Koegel, Wendy Krimins, William Holdeman, Paul Iacono, Sherren Leigh, Ken Norgan, Myra and John Reilly, Beth Levin and Marcus Lemonis, Vicki and Bill Hood, Kathy Brock and Doug Regan, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Janet and Rodger Owen, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Gale and Jay Gottlieb, Wendy Chronister and Peter Rogers, John Alexander, Ann and Blake Benjamin, Bridget and Matthew Campbell, Kimbra and Mark Walter, Holly and Peter Francis Geraci, Jeff Shea, Veronica Zepeda and Bob Loquercio, Mary Ann Young, Ami and Kevin Connolly, Donna and Michael Rigert, Cynthia Holbrook, Debra and Martin Beck, Susan Regenstein, Wendy and Steve Beard, Charlie Huebner, Tracey Benford, Joan Cusack, Jennifer and John Caruso and Deborah and Bruce Crown. At the close of the event, attendees received gift bags that contained John Derian glass mementos provided by Guggenheim, along with cool treats from Pinkberry and late-night slices from the Connie’s Pizza and Catering truck. Chauffeured courtesy cars – BMW 750i’s, to be precise – were stationed out front to whisk guests home…LOVED this! Proceeds from the ball ($1 million) will support the Women’s Board pledge to the Zoo’s Nature Boardwalk and will provide critical support to maintain this community landmark that is one of the last free zoos that's open every day in the nation! (Photos by Bob Carl, Violet Dominek, Julia Nash and Alain Miloti…click here for more!)

The night was PAWS-atively sensational at the 10th annual PAWS Chicago Beach party held at North Avenue Beach’s Castaways Boathouse on July 19th. With more than 400 guest and 100 dogs in attendance, this event raised $215,000 for the city’s largest no-kill humane society. Every partygoer received a colorful lei upon arrival at the summer’s largest pet-friendly social gathering co-chaired by Renata and Robert Block and Virginia Stafman. Once on deck, supporters enjoyed a lavish beach buffet courtesy of Stefani Catering that included hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, veggie burgers, salads, pizza, pretzels, ice cream, cookies and more fun food. The doggie buffet offered Swirlz “pupcakes” and Licks’ all natural liquid vitamin drinks as well as other treats. The evening’s signature cocktail, “PAWS on the Beach,” kept guests fueled for fun as they danced to the sounds of Spoken Four. The doggies and their owners were dressed in their best summer fashions with some sporting sunglasses, t-shirts, baseball caps and sundresses. And even though the night threatened rain, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of this loyal group of PAWS supporters. US99’s Lisa Dent, emcee and guest of honor, introduced PAWS founder/chair Paula Fasseas. “It’s great to see our community come together to help save the lives of homeless pets,” said Fasseas, who founded the organization in 1997. Volunteers were then introduced who presented rescue pups Hannah, Sponge, Mikey, Winslow and Clark to the crowd. The live auction packages included something for everyone including the highlight of the night, a VIP package from the Boss himself – Bruce Springsteen! This exciting auction prize included four VIP tickets to his September concert in Wrigley Field plus the opportunity to relax inside the VIP E Street Lounge before the show and his entire discography! Susan Clack bought this one-of-a-kind opportunity and said she might give it to her pregnant daughter. Veterinarian Dr. Tara Clack – Susan’s other daughter – was over the top with happiness. (Her darling boyfriend, Mark Bell, will most certainly approve!) Other auction items included the opportunity to have your pets featured as the official 2013 Beach Party logo. Last year’s winners, Judy and Howard Tullman, had their two dogs and two cats featured this year. Next year, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock’s furry family will grace the cover of the invite and all promo materials. (They paid $8K for this honor!) Lunch with Alpana Singh sold to Jimmy Meyer for $3,500, VIP Lollapalooza tickets sold to Cheri Lawrence for $5,000 and a luxury trip to Beverly Hills sold to Nancy Timmers for $5,500. All in all, the Beach Party raised more than $215,000 for PAWS Chicago. Their Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic will provide sterilizations for more than 18,000 pets of families in underserved communities. PAWS Chicago doesn’t receive any financial support from federal, state or local government agencies and is 100-percent reliant upon the community’s generosity. Charity Navigator, the country’s largest independent charity evaluator, has consistently awarded PAWS Chicago with its highest rating of four stars and honored them with national recognition due to their conscientious use of donor funds. Since PAWS’ inception, the number of homeless pets euthanized in the city each year has dropped by more than 50 percent from 42,561 to less than 18,000 in 2011. For more info, please visit www.PAWSChicago.org. Chuck and I own a PAWS dog (Rooney) and he couldn’t be sweeter! I know there’s a darling canine or feline there waiting for you, too! Stay tuned for Watch312.com coverage coming from this fun event! (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina.)

My FAVORITE vintage market, Randolph Street Market, returns July 28th and 29th to 1340 W. Randolph St.! I can’t wait to see its “Made in the Shade” summer theme which will include a Shade Shack Cabana filled with new independent artists and designers! And don’t forget to look up my favorite jewelry dealer, Ira Sheck: Many of my statement necklaces come from this eagle-eyed New Yorker! (Tell him Candace sent you!) Randolph Street Market is baaaackkkk!!! :)

The Field Museum’s Women’s Board hosted an Outreach Luncheon that featured the remarkable designs of A.V. Shinde, the renowned Indian jewelry designer for the house of legendary jeweler, Harry Winston. Co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, the program began with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers included Reema Keswani, an expert on Indian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde, and Anthony Ledru, the Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston, Inc. For 40 years, A.V. Shinde was the head designer for Harry Winston where he designed for the rich and famous including the Queen of England, Imelda Marcos and Liz Taylor, to name a few. In his earlier years, he designed for the maharajahs and maharanis of India. He died in 2003, at the age of 85. An Indian-themed luncheon followed the presentation in Stanley Field Hall where Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord was honored as this year’s Women in Science Fellow. For more info, please click here! (Photos by Steve Starr and Tonja Hall.)

Eloise Lapidus, daughter of famed designer Ted Lapidus, is bringing a fresh style and Parisian charm to her new line of apparel for BoBo House. Her keen sense of fashion was inspired by her father’s designs, which were worn and coveted by icons such as Brigitte Bardot, Alain Delon, Francoise Hardy and John Lennon. Eloise was greatly influenced by ‘60s and ‘70s bourgeoisie bohemians, or “Bobos” of Paris and St. Tropez. Take a look at her ultra-soft, luxurious basics fit for a relaxing day at Club 55 or on your yacht in the Port and see for yourselves!

How about some party news from the East Coast? A blow-out bash at NYC’s No. 8 hotspot celebrated NY Giants star Victor Cruz’ new memoir, “Out of the Blue.” “It may seem like I came out of the blue. But, my road was long, windy, full of hurdles, and even some dead ends. I lost family. I lost friends. I even lost my way. When I reached what felt like rock bottom, I realized I had a responsibility to everyone who believed in me and to kids, like me, who just needed a chance and something to believe in,” said Cruz in the epilogue of his new book. Famous for his amazing plays as a wide receiver as well as his post-touchdown salsa moves, Cruz partied like a rock star to celebrate his book launch alongside an array of celebs and friends who included rap music artist Wale, singer/actor Josh Groban, Eric Benet, “Empire Girls”stars Julissa Bermudez and Adrienne Bailon, DJ Kiss, DJ Clark Kent, Peter Rosenberg, K. Foxx, Joell Ortiz, Jeannette Jenkins and DJ M.O.S. (Photos by Jerritt Clark.)

Paul Hamann, President and CEO of The Night Ministry, was honored as a Champion of Change by the White House on July 12th as one of 13 individuals who have made a difference in the way their communities combat homelessness among children and youth. The Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s “Winning the Future” initiative and, each week, a different sector is highlighted. Founded in 1976, The Night Ministry is a Chicago-based nonprofit that provides housing, healthcare and human connection to members of the community who are struggling with poverty or homelessness. Congrats Paul on this prestigious honor and keep up the great work!

The PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation hosted its 10th annual gala to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of 40 outstanding Greek-American college students. The 2012 recipients were inducted as members of the Foundation’s prestigious PanHellenic Honors Society, which now has 227 members. Chairman and Founder of the PHSF Chris Tomaras welcomed more than 450 guests to this event that featured Academy Award winning filmmaker Alexander Payne as the Paradigm Recipient. WGN-TV’s film critic Dean Richards served as Master of Ceremonies while renowned Greek singer/songwriter Petros Gaitanos provided star quality entertainment during the evening’s festivities at the Merle Reskin Theater and Hilton Chicago. For more info about this passionate organization, please visit the Foundation's website. Congrats and good luck to this year’s deserving honorees!

Don’t miss this year’s Art in the Garden soiree on Saturday, August 11th, at La Paloma Gardens, located at 3622 Brookview Road in Rockford. (It’s worth the trip!) Hosted by longtime patron of the arts and passionate gardener Karen Harding along with Lon and Dick Behr and Sharyn and Joe Castrogiovanni, the party will include en plein a
ir cocktails and hors d’ouevres beginning at 6 p.m., a seated dinner by Jewell Events Catering at 7:30 p.m. and music provided by Clutch Cargo. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Rockford Art Museum, the event’s beneficiary. (For more info, please click here.)

Thanks to Margaret O’Connor for our first look at the blockbuster film, "The Dark Knight Rises"! The premiere was hosted by WGN at Navy Pier’s IMAX Theater with guests who included Chicago Bears players Charles Tillman (with his wife, Jackie) and Israel Idonije, former Bears players Anthony Adams and Jerry Azuma, Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan and JP Anderson, David Martinez (one of seven final remaining finalists on FOX’s “Master Chef”), Kelli Zink, Charley Jordan, DC Crenshaw, Katie and Jason McLenaghan and Jennifer Sutton. I also saw expert film critic/friend Geoff Burton, whose Cinema Trek movie reviews are always spot-on! He loved this movie and so did I! Thanks for this wonderful opportunity, Margaret!

Chuck and I were thrilled to participate in Kenmore LIVE’s recent taping of “Wisdom of the Ages.” This segment – which offered marriage advice from three couples ranging in age – is a prelude to their upcoming “Bridal Wave” series that will showcase all things wedding-related. Stay tuned for more info and congrats to Judy Faulkner Krause on another sure-to-be-a-hit internet show!

Beam’s VP of Human Resources Tom Strehle is a HUGE baseball fan! His collection of memorabilia would rival Cooperstown’s and, recently, he had the thrill of a lifetime throwing out the first pitch at the recent Cubs game against the Arizona Diamondbacks thanks to his good friend, Kerry Wood! He threw a perfect strike (or at least this is what he told me!) and I’m so happy for him. Not only is he a Cubs fan but his charitable contributions make him someone very, very special on top of it!

And finally, happy 50th anniversary to the loving and lovable couple, Angela and Paul Murges! Their darling only daughter, Giana Pisellini, along with Kathy O’Malley Piccone, planned a surprise party at Gibson’s that they’ll never forget! Even though Angela balked at going out on a Sunday, Giana finally convinced her by telling her they were just meeting Kathy for an anniversary drink. The hard work was getting Angela up the stairs, which Kathy did brilliantly by asking her to look at the balcony being planned for the second floor (which is true, BTW). Loving longtime friends included Skip Pope, Jerry Ranalli, Irv Solganik (the Judge), Leah and Jack Bowman, Barb and Gene Compari, Rich Gregorin, Giana’s cute husband Preston and us. Here’s to another 50, Ang and Paulie! Love you! (Check out more fun pics here!)

I’m really enjoying the dog days of summer and I hope you are, too! I also hope you’re checking out my Candid Candace column in Sunday’s Tribune Magazine! And remember to take a peek at the Tribune’s online column, too, since it contains a LOT more pics and an unedited version of my party coverage!

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