Tag Archives: Richard Roeper

September 23, 2019 · 11:22 am

THE CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE: A FLAIR FOR FASHION AND FUNDRAISING

PLUS: Adler Planetarium's Celestial Ball; Step Up's Shine & Dine; Melody's BIG book launch; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab's Art in Motion; Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic; Navy Pier's Pumpkin Lights; Jack's Pumpkin Glow; 900 Shops' beautiful Fleurs de Villes; The Symphony Ball; Chicago Botanic Garden's stunning Lightscape; Cirque's first holiday show at Chicago Theatre; Making an Impact–Havana Nights; Muslim American Leadership Alliance gala; Lynn Sage Fall Benefit Luncheon; Joffrey Ballet WB hosts Jane Eyre Luncheon; Chicago Public Library Foundation Dinner honors literary heavyweights; Michelle's Masterclass; Dancing with the Giordano Stars; Friends of La Rabida Awards Celebration; Urban Prep hosts Aces UP!; White Pine Fall Fest; Steppenwolf's GREAT LEAP; Chef Williams' Soul Crab Chicago; Randolph Street Market hosts Editor's Choice for Charity; Happy Birthday dear Chuck; This & That; Darling videos and so much MORE!

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Honorees Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz.

It was the most successful fundraiser yet, raising over $100,000, for The Chicago Lighthouse! FLAIR 2019 was held at the Drake Chicago on September 13 and honored Cheryl Coleman and Ron Katz. The afternoon fashion show, "Visions of Elegance", was

Co-chairs Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine with Lighthouse president Dr. Janet Szlyk

expertly co-chaired for the third year by Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine. The record crowd, nearly 250, got a first look at fall during the runway show presented by ZZAZZ Productions and included some of Chicago's leading retailers: Anne Fontaine, Carlisle, Contessa Bottega, Frances Heffernan, Mira Couture, my stylist @Macy's and redE. During a reception before the show, attendees enjoyed a silent

Fashion show producer Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions)

auction in the luxurious Palm Court with pop-up shops from Chanel, Chicago Plastic Surgery Center, Jen Hansen Jewelry, L'Occitane, Lex's Lotion, The RealReal and Trish McEvoy. Local notables walking the runway included Kathy Piccone, Paula Borg, Sherry Abrahams, Dr.

Kim Gleeson and Cheri Lawrence.

Stacie McClane, Bobbi Panter, Dori Wilson, Melissa Babcock, Michael Caputo, Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul, Mark Olley, Chilli Pepper, Kim Gleeson, Cheri Lawrence, Sharyl Mackey, Jean and Alex Antoniou, Holly Twardak, Cathy Bartholomay, the darling co-chairs and so many more! Baton Show Lounge star Chilli Pepper vamped it up

The Lighthouse's Sandy Murillo and Learnus Ross wearing mystylist@Macy's.

on the runway wearing a short fox coat and showing off those legs that she's so famous for! It was my honor to introduce Cheryl and Ron whose philanthropy in our communities stretch far and wide. Ron is chair of the board of directors for ELKAY Manufacturing and

The star of the show, child piano prodigy Avett Ray!

supports charities in the fields of health, education and animal protection. They are both cancer survivors and are deeply committed to the

Alex Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou.

University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center. Cheryl was raised in a philanthropic family and in 1981 founded one of the first shelters for battered women in the U.S. The program opened with Lighthouse president Dr. Janet Szlyk welcoming guests. She shared part of the reason why the honorees support the Lighthouse–it's because they love the fact that the nonprofit never turns anyone away because of an

With Mark Olley, Chilli Pepper, Kathy Piccone, Jennifer Sutton, Michael Caputo and Stanley Paul.

inability to pay. Szlyk spotlighted three children who have benefited because of the Lighthouse's support–Matilde, 4, was born without irises and receives braille and rehabilitation training. Austin has multiple disabilities, he's both blind and autistic, and came to the Lighthouse in the "fetal position." He's now an engaged

Michelle Baker (L, wearing Mira Couture) with Dori Wilson in Contessa Bottega.

and "engaging" teenager! And lastly, Blaine who came from a large family of limited means. His inclusion in the First Jobs Program brought him to a permanent job at Walgreen's! The highlight of the event was YouTube sensation Avett Ray, 7, who's blind in one eye and visually impaired in the other. He's an amazing piano prodigy who has appeared on The

Holly Twardak and Helena Kogiones.

Today Show, among many others. His rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody (that he played that day,(see it here) brought him over 6 million views on YouTube. From the moment his mom, Sara Moore, introduced him, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand. The first song, he said, was "for the ladies" as he belted out Stevie

With Tracey Tarantino and The Lighthouse's Carly Englander and Sandy Murillo.

Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely" in a surprisingly adult voice! There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Mom Susan said he's been playing melodies since he was 11 months old! The audience also heard from Sandy Murillo, Lighthouse Development and Media maven. She lost her sight as a baby and the Chicago Lighthouse was there to support her and her family. This nonprofit, founded in 1906, serves the blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veteran communities. The FLAIR program was created in 2000 and supports children's and teen's program at The Lighthouse. (For more info, please click here) (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

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"One Giant Leap" author Charles Fishman (L) and Captain James A. Lovell Jr.

The Adler Planetarium Women’s Board hosted Celestial Ball, the Adler’s biggest fundraising event of the year which also celebrated its 25th anniversary. Held on September 7, the gala raised nearly $1.8 million to support the

Meg Sauer (Adler's WB pres.), Pradip Patiath (Adler Board of Trustees chair), and Linda Jojo (of United Airlines- the 2019 Corporate Partner Honoree)

Adler and its many exciting programs. Event chair Lilly Farahnakian (Global Chief Compliance Officer at GCM Grosvenor), Meg Sauer (Adler WB president) and Pradip Patiath (Board of Trustees chair) welcomed

Laura Glick, Lisa Bertagna and Mihra Seta.

approximately 600 guests. During the evening, guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail reception featuring interactive moments from key Adler programs and a seated dinner followed by dancing and a jazz lounge, complete with cosmic visualizations projected onto the dome in the Grainger Sky Theater. This year’s theme, The Future is Now, perfectly encapsulated the 50th anniversary of the Moon

Pamela Vargas and William Weinstein.

landing and the Moonshot that got us there 50 years ago. "In the future, technology may be better, people may be smarter and solutions to our most difficult problems may be within reach, but a future like that doesn’t just happen. We have to build it, starting today. NASA’s Apollo team didn’t wait for the future or for a more convenient time to attempt the impossible. We won't either. The future is

David Silverman and Lilly Farahnakian (2019 event chair).

the choices we make, the moonshots we take, the work we do together. The future is us. The future is now," said Farahnakian. As part of this year’s Celestial Ball dinner program, the Adler welcomed Apollo 8 and Apollo 13 astronaut Captain James A. Lovell, Jr. and One Giant Leap author Charles Fishman for an in-depth conversation touching on personal stories from on the ground and in the sky during the Apollo missions of the 1960’s. The conversation illuminated the triumphs and setbacks that unfolded in the global race to the Moon. The Adler also recognized United Airlines as its 2019 Corporate Partner Award honoree. (Photos by figMEDIA and David Miller)

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Niyah Simpson, a senior at Carl Schurz HS, played the viola during the reception.

More than fifteen local restaurants and culinary partners came together in support of mentorship at Shine & Dine on August 8. Benefiting Step Up, an after-school and weekend mentorship program for high school girls living or going to school in under-served communities, the event attracted over 500 guests. The nonprofit honored alumna Ahja Howard for inspiring women and girls to fulfill their potential. Howard, a member of Step Up’s Class of 2016, shared her moving story during the event’s brief program and is scheduled to graduate as part of the University of Illinois Springfield’s Class of 2020. During the evening, guests enjoyed tasting stations from Chicago’s top eateries that included Boka, Do-Rite Donuts, Eden, ENO Wine

Step Up alumnae Aminata Bah and Paris Scales chat with Whitney Capps.

Bar, Honey Butter Fried Chicken, Le Colonial, Madison and Rayne, Michael Jordan’s Steak House, Nacional 27, The Signature Room, Sprinkles, Troquet River North, and Wow Bao. Beverage partners include Beam Suntory and MillerCoors. Now in its second decade of service, Step Up was founded in 1998 by Kaye Popofsky Kramer and offers mentorship programs for high school girls in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Dallas. The Chicago chapter reached approximately 500 girls from seven high school partners across the city. The event raised over $275,000 for programming.

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T. Shawn Taylor and Melody Spann Cooper–co-authors of "The Girlfriend's Guide to Closing the Deal"

I'd be hard pressed to remember when I saw so much love in a room but that was exactly the case for the book launch party for "The Girlfriend's Guide to Closing the Deal", by the one and only Melody Spann Cooper, chairman of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, a best-in-class African American owned media boutique whose properties include radio and interactive platforms as well as the popular WVON 1690 AM, the oldest Black-

Cheryl Burton conducts a convo with Meloday Spann Cooper.

oriented radio station in Chicago. The book was co-written by T. Shawn Taylor and held at SX Skybar with a powerhouse gathering of Melody's legion of friends, fans, sisters and supporters who alllllll turned out to hear a spellbinding convo led by Cheryl Burton, who

It was a packed house!

was also a host of the event along with Cheryle Jackson, Shawnelle Richie and Toi Salter. Melody is a real woman's woman and her empathy and concern for her fellow sisters were very evident during the

Buy this book!

conversation. She bared her soul talking about her childhood and how hard it was to take over a legacy company–like Linda Johnson Rice, who she acknowledged in the crowd. Seen on the scene were Mahalia Ann Hines (Common's mom), Angela Thompson, Star Jones, Michelle McKinney Hammond, Tarrah

Follow her on Insta–@melodyspanncoooper.

Cooper, Stella Foster, Dionne Williams, Diane Primo, Sylvia Perez, George Fuller, Mary Mitchell, State's Attorney Kim Foxx, Hermene Hartman, Andrea Zopp, Shari Runner and many others. I'm thrilled to know Melody is already planning her next book which will be the story of Black women in America to be titled "Invisible." (Mel's book is available on Amazon here and at Barnes & Noble).

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Ted Reynolds, Matt Toczylowski, Genevieve Dolan and Barrett Stephan.

The 17^th Annual Art in Motion, hosted by the Associate Board of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, was held on September 6 with over 400 guests. The event took place at the hospital where the 10^th floor SkyLobby and Auditorium were transformed into an exciting art

James Sliwa, Chief Medical Officer.

exhibit and cocktail lounge that featured 25 patient artists along with live music and an art and raffle auction. The theme of this year’s Art in Motion was “The Soul Moves First” – a phrase that holds important meaning to the exhibiting artists who were once patients and participants in the

Michael Swan, Breanne Littleton and Tony Seaman.

hospital’s art therapy program. As Sami, a former patient from Venezuela, said, “Our bodies are fragile, but our souls are strong. Push yourself and you can believe that you can recover, and you will be stronger than before.” This year’s event

Daniel D., Mary and Danny Dolan.

raised $500,000 for therapeutic recreational programs that are typically not funded by insurance and that enable patients to let “the soul move first.” Kudos to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Associate Board for an exciting and meaningful event!

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BSF Gold Classic foursome sponsored by William Blair and Brent Glendhill–Mike Sabo, Cameron Morris, Matt Gilmore and Greer Clausen.

More than 300 civic and corporate leaders from across the country came out recently to participate in the 19^th Annual Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic co-chaired by Giancarlo Turano. The event is Big Shoulders Fund’s largest

BSF president/CEO Josh Hale and Mike Hanna, United Airlines VP of O'Hare Operations.

annual fundraiser and supports the Friends of Big Shoulders Scholarship, which provides critical tuition assistance to a portion of the nearly 20,000 inner-city students and families seeking access to a values-based education at one of the 75 Big Shoulders Fund schools. Hosted at the prestigious Olympia Fields Country Club, attendees participated in a series of contests, raffles and live and silent auctions, which, along with ticket sales,

BSF Foursome sponsored by GATX.

go towards funding scholarships. Over the last 19 years, the Golf Classic has raised more than $9 million and funded more than 12,500 scholarships. “We’re thrilled with the success of the event and grateful for the support of all those who came out to Olympia Field and helped us further Big Shoulders Fund’s mission of providing access and opportunity for deserving students who are eager to learn,” said Turano. “It’s empowering to see leaders from across the country and the Chicagoland area come together to make a difference in the lives of the next generation of leaders in our city and beyond.” Big Shoulders Fund is an independent charitable organization that has

Student volunteers from Leo High School, one of 75 Big Shoulders Fund schools.

offered support to schools in the neediest areas of Chicago for 33 years. Big Shoulders Fund invests approximately $30 million annually in 75 schools and nearly 20,000 students to enhance the quality of their education through academic programs, scholarships and enrichment, leadership development and operational strategy and improvements. All but three of the schools in the Big Shoulders Fund network are in the city of Chicago and many of the students we serve come from diverse socioeconomic and racial backgrounds – 80 percent represent minorities and nearly 70 percent live in low-income households.

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FREE!! The first-ever Pier Pumpkin Lights is coming to Navy Pier this October, where guests will explore a variety of pumpkin pop-up installations and enjoy Pier-wide deals during the month-long seasonal celebration. From jack-o’-lantern towers to glowing light displays, the Pier will be decked out for autumn. Designed by local Ivan Carlson Event Design, six installations will be displayed across the 50-acre Pier, stretching from the main entrance to past the iconic Centennial Wheel. Building on inspiration from traditional Halloween images as well as unique and original designs, featured stations include the Juggernaut of Jack-O-Lanterns in Polk Bros Park, Pumpkin Picasso, Garden of Totems, Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree, Pumpkin Dancers and Arachnids, as well as Skeleton Grave Dancers scattered throughout. The pop-up installations will be on exhibit daily during normal Pier operating hours but will best be experienced after dusk. The Pier will be full of fun and fright with several other Halloween festivities. Guests can enjoy three dates of free trick-or-treating on Saturday, October 26; Sunday, October 27; and on Halloween, Thursday, October 31. HalloWheel also returns this year, offering guests an opportunity to ride the Centennial Wheel free of charge. The first 1,031 guests to register for tickets will enjoy complimentary access to the iconic, year-round attraction during normal operating hours on Thursday, October 31. Tickets will be available one week prior to Halloween and, on select weekend dates and on Halloween, an Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze will transform into a Haunted Maze, inspired by famous Chicago ghost stories for a spooky, twisty time. Finally, Navy Pier will host the inaugural Cosplay on the Pier: Halloween Fest 2019 on Saturday, October 26 from 2 – 10 p.m. With a designated cosplay photo area, the Chicago skyline, iconic Centennial Wheel and Pier Pumpkin Lights displays, the event will offer great views and backdrops for Halloween photos and fun. All cosplayers who register before the event will also receive a variety of perks, including a free Centennial Wheel ticket, discounted parking, a chance to win a $300 Visa gift card and more. For more information, visit www.navypier.org.

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And speaking of pumpkins, how sweet is this? Jack's Pumpkin Glow in Lisle will have a special, sensory-friendly night for kids/adults with autism or who might need special care. Autism Glows will open a little earlier, 6:30 pm, and the crowds will be smaller (due to limited tickets), music will be a little lower and the atmosphere will be a little brighter. This special event will be held on Sunday, October 6. For tickets/more info, click here!

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Spring is alive and well at the fabulous 900 North Michigan Shops! You won't want to miss Fleurs de Villes ’ Floral Couture Installation as it makes its first appearance in Chicago from September 25-29. This unique, five-day exhibition is Fleurs de Villes’ signature event, blending luxury floral couture and fresh blooms with bespoke floral-dressed mannequins and fresh flower market stalls daily from September 26-29. Fifteen of Chicago’s leading florists, including HMR Designs, Kehoe Designs, The Revel Group,Flowers for Dreams, The Flower Firm, Flora Chicago, Les Fleurs Chicago, Fleur Inc., Flowers Flowers, Elenas Garden Events, Luci Floral Design, Mila Floral Design School, Anemone Chicago, Designs by Pael and more will be paired with world-class brands to design stunning displays from fresh flowers. The five-day extravaganza kicks off on Wednesday, September 25 when the finished mannequins, each clothed in a one-of-a-kind design made up of hundreds of fresh blooms, will be exhibited at 900 North Michigan Shops until Sunday, September 29. I just can't wait! I'm proud to be a judge of this fun exhibit with the one and only Michelle Alegria (of Fox-32)! Join US!

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Arnel Sacianco and Rashaad Hall at opening night for The Great Leap at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. (Photo by Gracie Meier)

Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s 2019/20 season of complex, beautiful and maddening theater kicked off with a thrilling Chicago premiere by in-demand playwright, Lauren Yee, directed by Jesca Prudencio.

Actor Deanna Myers and playwright Lauren Yee at opening night for The Great Leap at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. (Photo by Gracie Meier)

Set in 1989, The Great Leap tells the story of Manford Lum, a local star of the sidewalk basketball courts of San Francisco’s Chinatown who strong arms his way onto an American college team traveling to Beijing for a “friendship” game. Set amidst the friction of the post-Cultural Revolution era, The Great Leap keeps tensions high right up to the final buzzer.The Great Leap is currently playing through October 20 in the Upstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Symphony Board co-chairs Mimi Murley and Leslie Henner Burns with CSOA president Jeff Alexander at Symphony Ball kick-off party at Tiffany & Co.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Women's Board hosted a kick-off event in advance of their annual Symphony Ball at Tiffany & Co. on September 10. This year’s Symphony Ball, on September 21, took its

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Symphony Ball performance.

theme of romance, revelry and artistry of the Italian Renaissance from the evening’s musical program which featured the CSO and Maestro Riccardo Muti, along with internationally acclaimed soloist Leif Ove Andsnes on the piano. Following the concert,

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Gala dinner at the Four Seasons.

guests continued their evening at The Four Seasons for special entertainment, a gala dinner and dancing. Outstanding vintages of wine from private cellars, exclusive wineries and Chicago's finest restaurants were donated for a creative Wine Pull raffle. While every ticket yielded a wine selection, it might also have yielded magnificent jewelry and crystal items

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Maestro Muti with Leif Ove Andsnes.

donated by Tiffany, as well as other surprises and gift certificates. Tiffany also sponsored the "Anniversary Raffle" in honor of the 10th anniversary of the Women’s Board of the CSOA. A 16-stone signature Schlumberger ring encircled one lucky lady’s finger at the end of the evening! Sigh…..Congrats to all! (Photos by Todd Rosenberg)

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Mark your calendars for a spectacular holiday show, Lightscape, debuting for the first time in the U.S. at the Chicago Botanic Garden from November 22 to January 5! You’ll wander into a festive world of wonder and light. Along a mile-long path, the night comes alive with color, imagination, and sound, from a playful choir of singing trees to a spectacular waterfall of light. At times, you’ll find yourself in the center of it all — stepping inside a cathedral of golden light, walking down an avenue of luminous linden trees, moving through colorful ribbons of light. More than one million people in 2018 were delighted by the show across the U.K. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

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And more holiday fun coming to the Chicago Theatre! You know how much I love this time of the year, well this production is going to satisfy all of my cravings and then some! Mark your calendars for 'Twas the Night Before…", a world premiere presented by Cirque du Soleil and the Madison Square Garden Company coming for a limited engagement November 29. This magical, family-friendly production, with stunning visuals, will run through Dec. 8. (This is Cirque's first ever Christmas show so you know it will be fabulous!) For tickets/more info, click here!)

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The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation will present its annual gala, this year themed "Making an Impact: Havana Nights" at the Drake Hotel on Saturday, November 9. Indulge in some of Cuba's cultural cuisine and enjoy an evening of entertainment, dancing, auctions and raffles along with an inspiring program to combat IBD. Proceeds will benefit the Foundation's mission to cure Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. For tickets and more info, click here!

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The Muslim American Leadership Alliance will host its 4th annual gala on Thursday, November 7, at the Chicago History Museum. Chicago legend Malik Yusef, 6-time Grammy award-winner and seven-time ASCAP award-winner for pop and R & B, will deliver the keynote address. For tickets and more info, click here!

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Martin Short will be keynote speaker at the LSCRF fall benefit luncheon.

The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host its annual Fall Benefit Luncheon on Friday, October 25 at the Hilton Chicago. Co-chaired by Justyna Della Valle and Michelle Williams, the event will feature funnyman Martin Short as its keynote speaker. For tickets, more info, click here!

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The Chicago Public Library Foundation will host its annual Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner on Thursday, October 10 at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum (725 W. Roosevelt Road). Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Carl Sandburg Literary Award will be presented to "Game of Thrones" author George R. R. Martin! The education sociologist Dr. Eve L. Ewing will be honored with the 21st Century Award. For tickets, more info, click here!

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Mekky Media Relations (Michelle Mekky, a Crain's Notable Entrepreneur) is launching a Masterclass workshop which will help professionals of all levels enhance their skills in areas such as public speaking, networking, media interviews and even generating media coverage for themselves or their businesses. Tickets are on sale now for this one-day workshop which will be held Friday, Nov. 15, at Exchange312, an innovative event space in Wicker Park. The inaugural Mekky Media Masterclass will help each participant become a dynamic public speaker, network with confidence and conduct powerful media interviews (plus learn a few tricks for getting media coverage). The day will focus on providing valuable tools that can help professionals improve their career, business and future. Not to be missed! Love her! (Tickets/more info here)

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We're just two weeks away from Giordano Dance Chicago's "Dancing with the Giordano Stars" on Thursday, October 3 at Park West! New this year is the addition of a once-in-a-lifetime live auction package that allows the winning bidder to STAR in the opening production number of the next event! Value: PRICELESS! Join us for a dance party like none other and cheer on your friends who are competing! They will include 11 local notables (who will be paired with Giordano dancers): Wendy Berger, Kevin McIntyre, Collin McKenna, Sarah Cunningham, Bobby Hagelstein, Kristine Kinder, Nicole Klotz, Karen Larson, Gregory Long, Jennifer Thurswell and Jeannie Tremblay. For tickets/more info and to place a vote for a favorite, click here!

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Friends of La Rabida will host its annual Awards Celebration on Thursday, November 21 at the Ritz-Carlton. Award recipients will be Randy Markowitz (a trustee for La Rabida Children's Hospital) and Lisa Rolfe Burik (owner Frankie's on the Park). For tickets, more info, click here!

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Urban Prep Academies will host it's annual Aces Up! Charity Poker Tournament on Thursday, October 24, at Chicago Sports Museum (Water Tower Place, level 7). This 13th annual event, hosted by Alexi Giannoulias, Tim King (UPA founder), Richard Roeper and Chris Zorich, will include high-stakes gambling, great food and media, entertainment and sports stars in attendance, all to support Urban Prep Academies, a non-profit that operates a network of free, open-enrollment public male college-prep high schools. From 2010-2016, 100% of the seniors in the school's graduating classes were admitted to four-year colleges or universities. (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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We tried to get into Chef Darius Williams new Soul Crab Chicago

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Chef Darius Williams.

restaurant on opening night but the line stretched around the block and we got too hungry staring into the windows as lucky diners were slurping down house specialties like Bahamas-style deep-fried lobster, buttermilk battered catfish fingers, Chinese wontons stuffed with collard greens and crab meat and so much more. If you get a chance to eat here (1904 N. Western Ave.), please let me know how it was!

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The Joffrey Ballet Women's Board will host its Jane Eyre Luncheon on Tuesday, October 8, at the Hilton Chicago. WB co-chairs Chrissie Walker and Marcie Wright have planned an afternoon of exciting convo and a behind-the-scenes look at the production with choreographer Cathy Marston. (For tickets/more info, click here!) (The production runs from October 16-27. For tickets, click here!)

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Randolph Street Market will host its next vintage market on Sat/Sun, Sept. 28/29. This market will feature an Editor's & Designer's Choice for Charity! Shop finds hand-picked by some of Chicago's top interior designers, fashion stylists, journalists and influencers who will place a ribbon on their choices. When customers buy these items, RSM will make a donation to the charity of their choice! And, for the first time, this market will feature a world class Vintage Motorcycle Show, with over 45 of the most beautiful European, Asian and American bikes around! (For tickets/more info, click here!)

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Doesn't this look like a great reason for a fall road trip? White Pine Farm in New Buffalo, Michigan, will host its 2nd annual White Pine Fall Fest on Saturday, October 19! The afternoon event (from noon-3 pm, EST) will include live music by Groupies Wanted, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, food, games and more! Guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Harbor Country Emergency Food Pantry. (To RSVP, email Kristina at khanna@ucdgrp.com. )

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Please indulge me for a moment while I wish my Chuck a

Celebrating Chuck's BD with a cake from the Peninsula (Greg Hyder).

happy, happy birthday! On his special day, Thursday, September 19, he allowed me to celebrate him at Haute Dog Chicago, an event I covered benefiting Haute Dog Companions (watch Trib for details coming soon!). The Peninsula's Greg Hyder presented him with a surprise cake, so thoughtful! I feel so blessed to have this guy as my husband, he makes everything I do possible in every way and I couldn't live a minute without him. Happy BD dear one and thanks for your love and support!

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That's it for this week! I hope you've enjoyed the blog as much as I enjoy writing and sharing it with you!! And remember, if you have any event info or happy news I can share, please send it my way at Candace@CandaceJordan.com. Please sign up here if you're not a subscriber!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! That fist bump tho'…watch video here.

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Tagged as 900 Shops, Aces UP, Adler Planetarium, Alexi Giannoulias, Autism Glows, Avett Ray, Big Shoulders Fund, Canine Companions for Independence, Captain James Lovell, Chef Darius Williams, Cheryl Coleman, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago events, Chicago parties, Chicago Public Library Foundation, chicago theatre, Chris Zorich, Chuck Jordan, Cirque du Soleil, Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, Dancing with the Giordano Stars, Event news, Fig Media, FLAIR, Fleurs de Villes, Fox Lincoln, fundraisers, Giancarlo Turano, Giordano Dance Chicago, Greg Hyder, Haute Dog Chicago, Jack's Pumpkin Glow, Jane Eyre Luncheon, Joffrey Ballet, La Rabida, Lightscape, Linda Johnson Rice, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Madison Square Garden Company, Melody Spann Cooper, Michelle Mekky, Mila Samokhina, Muslim American Leadership Alliance, MyEyeDr, Navy Pier, nonprofits, Pier Pumpkin Lights, Randolph Street Market, Richard Roeper, Ron Katz, Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner, Shine and Dine, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Soul Crab Chicago, Step Up, Steppenwolf, Symphony Ball, The Chicago Lighthouse, The Peninsula Chicago, things to do, Tim King, Twas the Night Before, Urban Prep, White Pine Fall Fest, WVON, York Furs

November 9, 2012 · 10:36 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

October 24, 2012 · 9:50 am

CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST HOSTS HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS!

…PLUS PUBLIC CHICAGO CHANNELS STUDIO 54, FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION’S WILD GALA, CHEEKY CHICAGO’S FOURTH ANNIVERSARY, SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO’S “GRATITUDE” GALA, THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CELEBRATES 30, MITCH CANOFF FINDS “SOLACE,” BARBARA BATES’ PINK FASHION SHOW, ROE CONN’S NEWSAPALOOZA, HALSTED VODKA SUPPORTS GLBT COMMUNITY, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

I have never attended a more exciting red carpet event than the one recently hosted by the Chicago International Film Festival. For its 48th annual event, formidable founder Michael Kutza called in the big guns of show biz who included Al Pacino (with stunning girlfriend Lucila Sola),
Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Jon Bon Jovi for the world premiere of their new film, “Stand Up Guys”! You knew this was going to be huge as soon as you pulled up in front of the Harris Theater: For this event, there was even a red carpet OUTSIDE beginning at the curb for this exalted
group of legendary stars. And the crowds…OMGoodness! You had to fight your way through the front door and yet cooler heads prevailed inside where the crack PR team from Carol Fox and Associates and the dynamic Film Fest team had
everything well in hand. I was even told a PR associate had measured the media spacing on his hands and knees with a ruler – now THAT’S organization and planning! I was proud to be there representing my 'Candid Candace Chicago' show for Watch312.com with cameramen Alonzo Stallings and Matt Natale
along with social media queen Ashley Stevenson, who kept the Twittersphere buzzing with event pics and info. I saw WGN’s Dean Richards, Fox Chicago’s Bill Zwecker, Extra’s Jamie Blyth, Tribune’s Luis Gomez, NBC5’s LeeAnn Trotter and ABC7’s Janet Davies. (It was a thrill and a
privilege to share the red carpet with them.) Everyone was double-checking their questions so they would be prepared when the first celeb rounded the corner. Producer and Lakeshore Entertainment founder Tom Rosenberg was in a great mood for his world premiere and said, “There’s
no better place to open a film than the CIFF and this film belongs here!” He admitted to me that his Lakeshore Entertainment film company’s logo of the little boy diving into a pond was NOT him or a family member but was rather an image he selected to signify “the exuberance of youth.”
I interviewed Christopher Walken, who was probably the least talkative of the bunch. When I asked him what his new film, “Seven Psychopaths” was about, he said, “The title.” Oh boy! Jon Bon Jovi was beyond handsome with the most perfect set of teeth I’ve ever seen. When I asked
him what the two songs were about that he had written for the film, he said, “The characters.” By now, I felt like it was going to be a long night for interviews until superstar Al Pacino rounded the corner. My legs went numb and all of the intelligent questions I had went right out the
window and then he was there, standing in front of me, smiling from ear to ear. I felt I could do no wrong – he made everyone in line feel that way, I later learned…what a true star! As a matter of fact, he talked so long to each and every reporter that his in-her-own-right-world-famous publicist Pat Kingsley had to tap him on the arm to remind him to
keep moving! I couldn’t believe my good fortune and jokingly offered Steve Starr $4,000 if he could grab a photo while I was speaking to him. (He did…but I didn’t pay up, LOL!) The world is Pacino’s oyster and it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. His girlfriend, Lucila Sola, is gorgeous and
he was heading to NY from here for his already-sold-out stage performance of “Glengarry Glenn Ross.” Good for HIM!!! Screenwriter Noah Haidle couldn’t have been sweeter either and was excited that he will have his play “Smokefall” staged by the Goodman for their 2013-14 season. Alan Arkin was a
nice guy, rather low key but pleasant. I had read that in his past, he had performed as a folk singer so I asked him if there was any singing on set. He said, “Gangsters don’t usually sit around singing folk songs.” (Fortunately, he laughed along with his gorgeous wife, Suzanne Newlander
Arkin, and it was a nice moment. Whew!) Following the red carpet, more than 1,500 people watched the screening. A brief presentation preceded the 90 minute film and included host Bill Kurtis introducing the event’s lead sponsor, Columbia College’s Allen Turner. CIFF founder and
artistic director Michael Kutza introduced Rosenberg, who then presented the stars to the crowd. The film will most certainly win a basket load of awards when it debuts in January 2013. To see Walken, Arkin and Pacino onscreen together was like watching a firecracker sizzling before it exploded.
You didn’t know what was coming next. Julianna Margulies had a terrific role, too and was a great addition to the film. You will love sexy Vanessa Ferlito’s scenes as well! OMG! There is a shot of her coming up in an elevator with a baseball bat that will, for sure, become iconic. I loved this film and you will, too. After the
movie, the buzz in the crowd sounded like a swarm of bees. We all walked to the Cultural Center where the stars were expected to attend but a change of plans took them all to a private dinner at the Pump Room hosted by producer Rosenberg. Believe me, they
had done enough and deserved their down time with friends. I was thrilled to co-host this major opening night event with dynamic Film Fest Board member and RL’s Rich Varnes, whose Gibson’s Restaurant Group provided all of the delicious food for the post-party that also included the sweet jazz sounds of the Jesse Charbonier combo. I didn’t sleep a wink that night, as you can imagine. It was such a
magical evening that I will never, ever forget thanks to the genius of Michael Kutza. Long may you and the CIFF reign! Can’t wait to go to CLOSING NIGHT and see the Robert Zemeckis film,
“Flight.” Oh, the places the Chicago International Film Festival takes us! Become a member and see all of this great programming for yourself! (Fab Fotos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr. – click here for more – and to see what happened on the red carpet, check out my Watch312.com video below!)

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PUBLIC Chicago celebrated its one-year anniversary in grand style with a Studio 54 theme on Tuesday, October 9th. The foot-long invite arrived filled with silver stars and glitter that spilled out all over your
desk and floor when you opened it. For me, it evoked two emotions: First, it made you excited to attend and relive those glory days and second, it made you wonder who in the heck was going to clean up the mess! LOL! PUBLIC Chicago is the first hotel to open under Ian Schrager’s new brand and he was on hand that night to greet
attendees. The party was planned as an homage to the renowned NYC club where, I am proud to say, I frequented when I lived in
NY in the ‘70s. And because of this fact, I was expecting grand things a la the real hotspot. The most memorable part of the original NY design was a giant moon that descended from the ceiling with an enormous coke spoon. This and the flamboyantly dressed partygoers were elements I will never forget. I was hoping to see some outrageous costumes, drag
queens, maybe even some animal elements reminiscent of the time Bianca Jagger arrived on a white horse for a party there. I was prepared and excited, even donning my old silver
spandex pants but, alas, it wasn’t that kind of party. Grace Jones, where are you when we need you?! Yes, there was a beautiful dance floor complete with flashing strobe lights and waiters with sparklers but I guess I’m a bit jaded. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a fabulous party with lots of lots of gorgeous Chicago peeps and there WERE Studio 54 personalities there including DJ Johnny “Jellybean” Benitez and the doorman, Mark Benecke. Sirius XM
Radio broadcasted live interviews as well as the event’s music on its Studio 54 channel throughout the night. The VIP room in the Library projected home movies all evening with
great footage from the early days with amazing images. This was also the first time that Schrager has ever hosted a Studio 54 event, despite numerous requests over the years. I loved the fact that he brought his first party here to Chicago and it was a wonderful treat. The hotel and the restaurant are both so chic and I think he and his team did a fantastic job reworking a legendary landmark for the 21st century! Here’s to you, Ian – even though those wild days of 54 are gone, the party still rocks! (Check out more pics here!)

The Friends of Conservation Ball really upped the ante at this year’s beautiful gala, held in the magnificent Winter Garden of the Harold Washington Library on
Friday, October 12th. Reute Butler (FOC President and Ball Chairman), resplendent in a red gown, was smiling from ear to ear for the entire evening where more than 300 black-tie clad guests were on hand to
support this worthwhile charity that is changing lives the world over. Chicago Dowel Company’s handsome Paul Iacono was entranced when he attended his first event for
the FOC last year. And, believe me, this is one guy you want to impress. His list of formidable friends and his philanthropic bent helped fill the room to bursting and Reute was so
thrilled to have him onboard as a co-chair. Established in 1982, the FOC helps prevent wildlife and habitat degradation in the Masai Mara, one of the most ecologically important
regions of the world. Their longtime royal patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, sent a moving letter that was included in the Tribute Book (another Iacono touch) for the event: “It gives me
enormous pleasure to offer my congratulations to the FOC on this the 30th anniversary of your founding. Since your early interventions to help save black rhinos from extinction in the Masai Mara, threats
to our precious wildlife have increased inexorably, everywhere, too often outstripping the pace of conservation action. Yet time and again you have demonstrated that it is possible for dedicated
people with clear vision to make a difference, stemming the loss of wildlife and critical habitat and through landmark projects, reversing the declines of some acutely endangered species. As your
Patron now for more years than I care to remember, I can only pay tribute to the role played by the FOC in one of the greatest causes imaginable – preventing the destruction of the natural
world.” Amen to that, Prince Charles! The evening began with a VIP meet-and-greet with former “Wild Kingdom” host, the fabulous and much-loved Jim Fowler, who is another long-time supporter and
FOC director. In addition to his lovely wife, Jim brought along some of his furry, feathered and scaly friends: There were adorable leopard cubs, an 8-foot-long python that Reute has known since it was tiny,
several joeys and more. CNN’s glamorous Zoraida Sambolin returned to emcee this lovefest that began with Reute and her mother, Jorie Butler Kent (FOC Founder and International Chairman), onstage describing what this organization means to
them. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Reute hugged her elegant mother and said, “You are an inspiration” following a moving video presentation produced by Manuela Hung. Everyone who attended was happy to help in some way: Caterer George Jewell donated a private dinner during the live auction
portion, Paul Iacono bought a great trip (courtesy of Abercrombie & Kent, who had donated a lot of exclusive, eye-popping travel packages) and auctioneer David Goodman – one of the best in the business – kept the paddles in the air as he helped raise money for this wonderful cause. A Heads or Tails Game had glam guest Mamie Walton in the running almost to the very end for an iPad. It was a perfectly produced event
from beginning to end and we were so thrilled to be there. One of my favorite parts of this event is watching the delighted smiles on the faces of guests as they took advantage of the opportunity to handle these wild, adorable creatures, all
captured on film by fabulous fotog/friend Mila Samokhina. FOC 2012 Co-Chairmen (besides Paul) included Kip Helverson, Rachael Phillippe, Holly Rothschild, Joan Wegner and Wendy Wood-Prince; Michael Butler, John and Jutta Maue-Kay, Geoffrey J.W. Kent and Kay and Fred Krehbiel were
honorary co-chairmen and Tara and Charles Wegner were also committee co-chairmen and benefactors. As we all
know, it takes a village to put on an event this size so special thanks to Langham Hotels (especially you, Rebecca Werner!), Anantara Resorts, Kent Wine Cellar & Trust, Leela Palace Hotels, Patagonia Sur, Sanctuary’s Gorilla Forest Camp, Sea Cloud Cruises, Suenos, The Balmoral Hotel, The Royal Scotsman and W Santiago among countless others who donated time, services or auction items. Your contributions helped so many! If you would like to learn more about the amazing work of the FOC or would like to donate, please visit www.friendsofconservation.org. (Fab fotos, of course, by Mila Samokhina. View more here!)

Cheeky turns FOUR!!! I remember when the dynamic duo of Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin started their creative website CheekyChicago.com and now they have these Vogue-worthy jutting cheekbones, fashion savvy and business
acumen that would impress the most formidable dot-com billionaires, which I’m sure they’ll be soon!!! We were so thrilled to attend this BIG event at the Four Seasons. You knew where the party was located from the moment you stepped inside the lobby as the sounds of more than 450 excited partygoers
echoed throughout the building. Everyone was so thrilled to be there to celebrate/support/love
these two women, their staffers and this awesome website geared to ALL things you need to know about the Windy City. Platinum Events (love Justin Jacobson) transformed the gorgeous Grand Ballroom into “four seasons” (Get it? Insanely clever!) Guests experienced the transitioning of seasons, Cheeky Style (which is a lot like Gangnam Style – hot, hot, HOT!). From viewing the latest
fall trends from Edith Hart to welcoming winter with Klutch Club (think health in a box), to reviving winter skin a la Elure Beauty’s medical
spa while sipping Skinnygirl cocktails (my very fav, thanks to Tom Strehle), the night offered guests so many ops to step into their favorite seasons for this Cheeky fourth-anniversary party! Four Seasons’ Executive Chef Kevin Hickey provided a veritable feast of food and live music from Stitely Entertainment kept the dance floors packed. If you’re not hooked up with this cool website yet, you’re missing out on SO MUCH!!! Check it out, sign up and strap yourself in for a very wild ride in the Windy City! Congrats Jessica and Erica! Love you, love your website…and I hope YOU love these pics!

Mitchell Canoff – one of Chicago’s most colorful photographers – has been covering social and political events for decades and traveling the world to capture people and places
through the lens of his camera. On one of his recent journeys, he spent hours of solitude photographing the landscapes of Death Valley in the Mojave Desert in eastern California and Great
Dunes National Park in Colorado. What resulted was a collection of work entitled “Solace” and the debut exhibition of his work and Mitch’s 70th birthday party were celebrated by longtime friends and clients
at a party on October 8th at Paris Club. Friends in attendance included Suzie, Ross and Todd Glickman, Jimmy Rittenberg, Kimberly Gleeson, Richard Doermer, Rich Melman, Jerrod
Melman, Christie Hefner, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano, Jennifer Girard, Cheri Eisenberg, Joan Hackett, Charels Cherney, Tony Fitzpatrick, Sue Chernoff, Sunny Fisher,
Thad Wong, Billy Marovitz, Jack Kellman, Danny Coval, Joan Steele, Mickey Norton and Gary Gordon, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Christine and John Mallul, Deborah Chapman, Skip Weiss and Patrick Reedy; John Strazinsky (grandson of Igor Stravinsky) and Domenica Scorsese (daughter of Martin Scorsese) were also in attendance. Congratulations, Mitch…what beautiful work!

A not-to-be-missed event, NEWSAPALOOZA, will be held at Park West on Saturday, November 10th beginning at 7:30 p.m. Hosted by much-loved radio and TV host Roe Conn and his beautiful wife Barbara, this event will benefit Clearbrook, the state’s largest provider of services to people with developmental disabilities. Roe’s long-time friend, Grammy Award winner Richard Marx, will perform and serve as musical director for the third year along with lots of other media personalities
including Rob Johnson, Richard Roeper, Ryan Chiaverini, Val Warner, Steve Sanders, Anna Davlantes, Dan and Anthony Ponce, Steve Dahl, Natalie Martinez, Paula Faris and more. I’ve been told to expect the unexpected as far as talent from our town’s news people and I can’t wait! Tickets are $75; for more info, please visit www.roeconn.com. I hope to see YOU there!

The Chicago Children’s Museum Gala 2012 will be held at Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom on Saturday, November 3rd, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This year’s gala
celebrates 30 years of families and honors the Museum’s commitment to providing playful learning opportunities that bring families and children of all ages, backgrounds and abilities together. The honorary host committee includes the Crown, Goodman and Pritzker Pucker families and Joan Harris. For tickets and more info, please visit chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Mark your calendars for beloved designer Barbara Bates’ Winning the Fight Against Breast Cancer Fashion Show on Sunday, October 28th from 2 to 6 p.m. at Prentice Women’s Hospital at Northwestern Memorial Hospital (3rd level). This event will help raise money for the Barbara Bates Foundation’s Institutional Grant on Disparity and Education
of Breast Cancer which will serve to educate and address the disparities in breast cancer care faced by women in the African American and Latino communities. This event also marks the launch of a partnership between the Barbara Bates Foundation in conjunction with the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation benefiting the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and the Sinai Health System. More than 50 breast cancer survivors will model Barbara’s designs for this great cause! To purchase tickets ($250) please click here!

The Service Club of Chicago is celebrating its 122nd gala, themed “With Gratitude”, on Friday, November 2nd at the Four Seasons Hotel. Co-chaired
by Elizabeth Brodsky and Kimberly Gleeson, the evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception. This black-tie event will also include live and silent auctions, fabulous raffle drawings and a wine auction. The Stanley Paul Orchestra will keep the crowd on the dance floor and the after-party will feature Peter Oprisco. (Tickets are $400 or $122 for after-party only and can be purchased by clicking here!)

DRINK IT!! Founded to champion GLBT community building and human rights, Halsted Vodka is a totally new concept in spirits that has been created with the help and inspiration of the community on Chicago’s North Halsted Street. It was developed with the help of consumers of the street’s popular bars and clubs who were invited to
take part in blind tastings. Designed to taste good and DO good, this all-American spirit donates 15 percent of its profits to GLBT causes. For more info, please visit www.blinkbeverage.com. I can’t wait to try it!

Who saw our town’s “Squire”, Bunky Cushing, in this month 40th anniversary issue of W Magazine!? It was a great article on the world’s classiest women and the men who love them and squire them! Congrats Bunky!

I can’t wait to share all of the news from NEXT Fashion Chicago and Susan G. Komen’s fantastic Pink Tie Gala that honored some of our town’s top guys next week so stay tuned and thanks so much for checking in!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I hope you can join me at TCW Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Halloween Party, “Costumes & Cocktails”, on Tuesday, October 30th, at the Cultural Center from 6 to 10 p.m. This event will provide 30 grants for 30 area charities with buffet stations, full bar, music, dancing and “Pumpkins on Parade” silent auction! Tickets are $150 and can be purchased here.

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Tagged as Abercrombie & Kent, Al Pacino, Alan Arkin, Allen Turner, Alonzo Stallings, Anantara Resorts, Anna Davlantes, Barbara Bates, Barbara Bates Foundation, Barbara Conn, Bianca Jagger, Bill Kurtis, Bill Zwecker, Billy Marovitz, Bob Sirott, Bonnie Spurlock, Bunky Cushing, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace Chicago, Carol Fox and Associates, Charels Cherney, Charles Wegner, CheekyChicago.com, Cheri Eisenberg, Chicago Children's Museum, Chicago Dowel Company, Chicago International Film Festival, Christie Hefner, Christine Mallul, Christopher Walken, CIFF, Clearbrook. Richard Marx, Crown, Dan and Anthony Ponce, Danny Coval, David Goodman, Dean Richards, Deborah Chapman, DJ Johnny Jellybean” Benitez, Domenica Scorsese, Edith Hart, Elizabeth Brodsky, Elure Beauty, Erica Bethe Levin, Four Seasons, Fred Krehbiel, Friends of Conservation, Gary Gordon, Geoffrey J.W. Kent, George Jewell, Gibsons Restaurant Group, Glickman, Goodman, Goodman Theater, Grace Jones, Halsted Vodka, Holly Rothschild, Ian Schrager, Igor Stravinsky, Jack Kellman, Jamie Blyth, Janet Davies, Jennifer Girard, Jerrod Melman, Jesse Charbonier, Jessica Zweig, Jim Spurlock, Jimmy Rittenberg, Joan Hackett, Joan Harris, Joan Steele, Joan Wegner, John Mallul, John Maue-Kay, John Strazinsky, Jon Bon Jovi, Jorie Butler Kent, Justin Jacobson, Jutta Maue-Kay, Kay Krehbiel, Kent Wine Cellar & Trust, Kevin Hickey, Kilianna Margulies, Kimberly Gleeson, Kip Helverson, Klutch Club, Lakeshore Entertainment, Langham Hotels, LeeAnn Trotter, Leela Palace Hotels, Lucila Sola, Luis Gomez, Lynn Sage Cancer Research Center, Mamie Walton, Manuela Hung, Marianne Murciano, Mark Benecke, Martin Scorsese, Masai Mara. Kim Fowler, Matt Natalem Ashley Stevenson, Michael Butler, Michael Kutza, Mickey Norton, Mila Samokhina, Mitchell Canoff, Natalie Martinez, NEWSAPALOOZA, NEXT Fashion Chicago, Noah Haidle, Paris Club, Pat Kingsley, Patagonia Sur, Patrick Reedy, Paul Iacono, Paula Faris, Peter Oprisco, Pink Tie Gala, Platinum Events, Prince Charles, Pritzker Pucker, PUBLIC Chicago, Pump Roo, Rachael Phillippe, Rebecca Werner, Reute Butler, Rich Melman, Rich Varnes, Richard Doermer, Richard Roeper, Rob Johnson, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Robert Zmeckis, Roe Conn, Ross Glickman, Ryan Chiaverini, Sanctuary’s Gorilla Forest Camp, Sea Cloud Cruises, Service Club of Chicago, Sinai Health System, Sirius XM Radio, Skinnygirl, Skip Weiss, Solace, Stanley Paul Orchestra, Steve Dahl, Steve Sanders, Steve Starr, Stitely Entertainment, Studio 54, Sue Chernoff, Suenos, Sunny Fisher, Susan G. Komen, Suzanne Newlander Arkin, Suzie, Tara Wegner, Thad Wong, The Balmoral Hotel, The Royal Scotsman, Todd Glickman, Tom Rosenberg, Tom Strehle, Tony Fitzpatrick, Val Warner, Vanessa Ferlito, W Magazine, W Santiago, Watch312.com, Wendy Wood-Prince, Winning the Fight Against Breast Cancer, Zoraida Sambolin

August 1, 2012 · 9:18 pm

THE WHITE PARTY GOES UNDERGROUND FOR ONE HOPE UNITED!

…PLUS SUPERMODEL & MICH MAG’S A SHORE THING, 50 & BEAUTIFUL, TALKCHIC, LOVE IS IN THE AIR, GAMING FOR GREEN, MISS FOSTER'S 'STELLABRATION,' UPCOMING EVENTS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Man-about-town Marco Foster was a man with a mission in his desire to create a successful fundraiser for One Hope United, an organization which is near and dear to his heart. On July 27th, his many friends and supporters came out in force to help Marco give back. Held at Underground, this annual event was also a celebration of Marco’s birthday with 100 percent of the proceeds going to this organization whose mission is to protect children and strengthen families in Chicago. Marco’s story is a remarkable one: After being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2009 and having a successful surgery on Thanksgiving Day (appropriately) that same year, he has been a role model for giving back to numerous charity events throughout Chicago, especially to causes that have made a major impact on his life. Besides being an advocate for One Hope United, he also supports the American Brain Tumor Association, where he spreads the message of his experience and the importance of giving to charity. “It shouldn’t take a drastic event in one’s life to create change,” said Marco. “We all have the ability to be an instrument of change and I’m honored to have such support from the event’s co-hosts, the Underground, and the leadership from One Hope United to help pull this all off.” Co-hosts for the night included NBC multimedia journalist and five-time Emmy winner Marcus Riley, Akira Chicago owner Jon Cotay, WGN’s "Living Healthy Chicago" host Jane Monzures, PR industry pioneer and motivational speaker Chris Foltz and moi. Marco also founded the elite fashion networking group Chicago Models, as well as creating a popular social media following that is now used as a resource by hundreds in the fashion and modeling industry. Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, he has a passion for fashion and is, indeed, quite the bon vivant with an eye for style. By day, Foster is an IT guru managing the HelpDesk at Sargent & Lundy in the nuclear and fossil power plant industry. He’s a man of many talents but the ones he’s most proud of are of the charitable nature. One Hope United was founded as Chicago Baptist Orphanage in 1895 and Hudelson Baptist Children’s Home in 1903. In 1987, the two created a historic partnership evolving over the years to include foster care, clinical services and early childhood development. “I know what it’s like to get passed around from home to home and it�
�s not fun,” said Foster. And he should know since he was in foster care until the age of seven. It was a love-filled affair for a great cause hosted by a great guy! Congrats Marco and Happy Birthday – you are an inspiration! (Photos by Steve Starr and Mila Samokhina…check out more pics from this fun event here!)

Michigan Avenue Magazine and the Chicago Yacht Club presented "A Shore Thing" at Navy Pier on July 21st. The official viewing party for the Race to Mackinac provided guests with a front row seat for the Parade of Boats at this inaugural party hosted at the tip of Navy Pier by president/publisher Dan Uslan and editor-in-chief J.P. Anderson. With an assist from supermodel/reality star Joanna Krupa, this party celebrated the 104th race. Since 1898, sailors have embarked on the 333-mile race to Mackinac Island. This Chicago Yacht Club Race, presented by Veuve Clicquot, is the oldest and most prestigious freshwater sailing race attracting some of the world's best sailors. "The Mac" hosts 350 boats with approximately 3,500 sailors competing in this world-class sporting event. To view all the pics from this event, please click here!

More than 300 people converged on the legendary Drake Hotel for the fifth annual 50 & Beautiful Fashion Show, hosted by Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions and Shaun Rajah of the Drake Hotel. “This event is about showing that beauty has no age, no race, no height or size restrictions and embracing and celebrating this fact,” said Melinda Joseph. “I am proud to be friends with these ladies. They are beautiful inside and out,” added Cece Gonzales. Fifty stylish women walked the catwalk in designs from Al Menotti, Regina Rice, Sujata Gazder, Fraley Le, Mark Roscoe and Andrea Gems. Models included Kathy O’Malley Piccone, Margaret O’Connor, Shea Vaughn, Denise Tomasello, Mable Buckner Payton, Rosemary Fanti, Kim Gleeson, Deborah Goodman, Ellen Wesley, Dorothy Whealan and Karen Williams. A reception followed in the Palm Court where guests enjoyed live entertainment by the Mike Walters Trio. (Hot DJ Madrid did the show music.) A portion of the proceeds benefitted A Silver Lining Foundation. Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg, the mission of A Silver Lining is to ensure dignified, respectful and equal access to quality cancer education and services for all, by creating meaningful partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations. For more info on this organization, please visit www.asilverliningfoundation.org. (Photos by Steve Starr and Nick Pinto.)

TalkChic is up and running so it’s time to break out the champagne flutes for founders Nena Ivon, Jane Stewart and Linda Heister! This speaker’s bureau is a consortium of experts who offer an array of programs on lifestyle topics. A division of Stewart Talent, speakers include Bill Zwecker (entertainment insider), Hutton Wilkinson (Beverly Hills interior designer and master jeweler), Stanley Paul (maestro and master story teller), Bunky Cushing (party planner extraordinaire), Sherrill Bodine (best-selling romance novelist), Ina Pinkney (culinary master), Debra Mancoff (art and garden expert), Michael Anderson (world of ballet expert), Ron Falzone (award winning screenwriter), Jan Parr (publishing expert), Nena (fashion history) and moi (jack of all trades and master of none). For more info, please contact Nena at nena@talkchic.com or Linda at Linda@talkchic.com or call 312.572.6111.

Love is definitely in the air this summer with beautiful weddings happening all around us. Starting with the popular and much loved Heather Farley and her new husband Bruce Ingram, theirs was the stuff dreams are made of! More than 200 guests convened in Lake Geneva at Bonnie Deutsch’s historic, private home which was once owned by Art Institute founding father, Martin Ryerson. The ceremony was presided over by long-time friend Judge Mary Pat Burns, followed by a reception held on the grounds in a massive tent. Heather’s father wrote a “speech” for the happy couple that he sang to the crowd amid many tears of happiness. At dusk, the largest boat on Lake Geneva – The Lady of the Lake – docked to gather guests for dessert and dancing. A DJ played hot mixes and special guest Katarina played the electric violin. Heather and Bruce enjoyed their first dance – to “Hooked on a Feeling” – and danced the night away with guests who included Mamie Walton, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sherrill and John Bodine, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina and Bob Mariano and Lynn and John McMahan. When the boat docked at 11 p.m., a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream cart capped off a perfect summer wedding on the lake. Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Ingram! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Another magical wedding was held in Lake Forest this past weekend uniting lovely Laura Nosko and Dr. Paul Steinwald. The First Presbyterian Church was filled to the rafters with guests excited to witness the union of these much loved and much IN love people. (Paul is the son of Dr. Os Steinwald, our brother-in-law). This church is so beautiful and it was only eclipsed by the bride and her lovely bridesmaids. The reception was held on the elegant grounds of Lake Forest Academy with the sit-down dinner for 250 held in the marble halls of the historic Armour House. There were many lovely speeches but a standout was Paul’s younger brother and best man, George, who admiringly called his brother “the DJ of life.” Guests in attendance included Meredith and Todd Burkitt, Ashley and Tom Margulis, Maureen and John Dugan, Susan and Antonio Mena, Nancy Steinwald, Amy Steinwald, Ann and Jim McNulty, Mary Louise Loeb, Lee Widhelm, Bruce and Ronnie Steinwald, Karen and John Nosko (parents of the bride), Mildred and John Nosko (grandparents of the bride), Christy Lukes, Beth Fioritto, Abbie Ferguson, Rachel Patel, Thomas Kelly, Chester Nakamura, Steven Vath, Miki Ferenczy, James Rooney, Richard Milone, Margie and Tom Ward and us. Congrats, Dr. and Mrs. Paul Steinwald! (Click here for more pics!)

Chicago Gateway Green, along with its sponsoring presenter and longtime Expressway Program Partner Horseshoe Casino, hosted their seventh annual Gaming for Green, a popular poker tournament and casino night held on July 12th at Galleria Marchetti. Hosted by Roe Conn and Richard Roeper of “Roe and Roeper” on WLS 890AM, the event raised $35,000 for Chicago Gateway Green’s Tree Partnership Program. This program is a large-scale volunteer tree planting initiative that transforms vacant land across
Chicago’s neighborhoods into tree-filled green spaces thereby improving Chicago’s neighborhoods. “Our Tree Partnership is a crucial part of the ongoing effort to green and beautify Chicago,” said Grant DePorter, chairman Gateway Green. Chaid Freid of Northbrook was the evening’s first-place winner and earned a Main Event Championship Seat at the World Series of Poker Circuit event in Las Vegas, a $10K value. Seen on the scene were former Chicago Bear Chris Zorich, NBC 5’s Natalie Martinez and NBC Executive Producer Matt Piacente, Sarah Cooley, Heather Korpella, John Fritchey and Joanna DePorter among others. For more info on Chicago Gateway Green, including details on the annual Green Tie Ball gala on Sept. 15th, please visit www.gatewaygreen.org or call 312.540.9930.

City Winery Chicago is hosting a preview party to benefit arts education non-profit Urban Gateways on Saturday, August 11th from 7 to 10 p.m. This fundraiser will be the public’s first chance to experience the new 33,000-square-foot wine, food and music venue in Chicago’s West Loop. (It officially opens on August 15th with five nights of performances by comedian Lewis Black.) Guests will be treated to complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres and live jazz and blues performances by Reginald Robinson and the 5th Element, and Eric Noden & Joe Falisko with special guest Katherine Davis. One hundred percent of proceeds will go to Urban Gateways. Michael Dorf, City Winery’s founder, first opened a City Winery location in NYC in 2008. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased online or at the door. For more info, please click here!

Compassion, Fashion & Cocktails, a charity event celebrating pioneers in fashion, food and film will be held at Frontier, located at 1072 N. Milwaukee, on Thursday August 23rd, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Co-chaired by Lema Khorshid, Sarah Noonan, Fei Wang and Sam Yanover, the evening will honor the arts while raising money for the non-profits The Musical Art Institute, Bin Donated (as seen on ABC’s "Secret Millionaire") and St. Vincent de Paul Center & Marillac Social Center. Frontier will be transformed into a cutting-edge runway scene with fashions by designer Eva Franco and jazz performances from students of The Musical Arts Institute. A special menu will be presented by Chef Brian Jupiter. A cocktail reception from 6:30 to 8:30 will be hosted by Bombay Sapphire. Tickets are $40, $55 at the door. (All proceeds will go to the charities.) For info, please click here.

Bridal Wave, presented by Kenmore Craftsman, will premiere Saturday, August 4th. Join them live or online as some of the country’s most respected wedding experts share their secrets. If it has anything to do with getting married, they’ll be talking about it on Bridal Wave! Be a part of the audience at 233 W. Huron on Saturdays starting August 4th through September 29th at 10 a.m.!

Saw Denzel Washington's beautiful wife, Pauletta, at dinner at Bijan recently with makeup/style gurus Reggie Wells (Oprah’s longtime makeup artist) and George Fuller. Plans are in the works for a reality show about making everyday people on the street look fabulous with a makeover – I think the working title will be “Finding Fabulous.” These two guys could make Godzilla look great so I can't wait to see what they've cooked up!! Congrats and good luck!!!

On a sad note, I CANNOT believe I won’t be able to read Stella Foster’s column in the Sun-Times anymore!?!?!?! This wonderful reporter gave a voice to the voiceless, love to her friends and always, Always, ALWAYS told it like it is! On Saturday, Operation PUSH has proclaimed “Stella Foster Day” in Chicago at their headquarters at 930 E. 50th starting at 10 a.m. Her fans are legion and I can’t imagine the mail her paper must be receiving. And believe me, this is the first of many events that will be planned in her honor. I can’t wait to participate. “I am overwhelmed by the love and support from my readers and the dignitaries in this town,” said Miss Stella. You ain’t seen nothin’ yet! We love you, Stella!

Thanks to all of you for reading my little blogazine! I hope you enjoy it! Please send me any comments at Candace@CandidCandace.com – I want to keep you informed and entertained so please send me your suggestions! Thanks and hope you’re having a wonderful summer!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. What a thrill for Dr. Steven Stryker who, along with Dan Dalton, were Distinguished Visitors aboard the U.S.S. Stennis, a Navy aircraft carrier that’s being deployed to the Persian Gulf next month. So cool!!!

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Tagged as 50 & Beautiful Fashion Show, A Shore Thing, A Silver Lining Foundation, Abbie Ferguson, Al Menotti, American Brain Tumor Association, Amy Steinwald, Andrea Gems, Ann McNulty, Antonio Mena, Armour House, Ashley Margulis, Beth Fioritto, Bill Zwecker, Bin Donated, Bob Mariano, Bombay Sapphire, Bonnie Deutsch, Bridal Wave, Bruce Ingram, Bruce Steinwald, Caitlin Saville Collins, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Cece & Melinda, Cece Gonzalez, Chaid Freid, Chef Brian Jupiter, Chester Nakamura, Chicago Gateway Green, Chicago Models, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Yacht Club, Chris Foltz, Chris Zorich, Christy Lukes, City Winery Chicago, Compassion Fashion & Cocktails, Dan Dalton, Dan Uslan, Deborah Goodman, Debra Mancoff, Denise Tomasello, Denzel Washington, DJ Madrid, Dorothy Whealan, Dr. Os Steinwald, Dr. Paul Steinwald, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, Dr. Steven Stryker, Drake Hotel, Ellen Wesley, Eric Noden, Eva Franco, Fei Wang, Finding Fabulous, Fraley Le, Gaming for Green, George Fuller, Grant DePorter, Green Tie Ball, Heather Farley, Heather Korpella, Horseshoe Casino, Hutton Wilkinson, Ina Pickney, J.P. Anderson, James Rooney, Jan Parr, Jane Monzures, Jane Stewart, Jim McNulty, Joana Krupa, Joanna DePorter, Joe Falisko, John Bodine, John Dugan, John Fritchey, John McMahan, John Nosko, Jon Cotay, Judge Mary Pat Burns, Karen Nosko, Karen Williams, Katherine Davis, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Kenmore Craftsman, Kim Gleeson, Kristina McGrath, Lake Forest Academy, Laura Nosko, Lee Widhelm, Lema Khorshid, Lewis Black, Linda Heister, Lynn McMahan, Mable Buckner Payton, Mamie Walton, Marco Foster, Marcus Riley, Margaret O’Connor, Margie Ward, Mark Roscoe, Martin Ryerson, Mary Louise Loeb, Matt Piacente, Maureen Dugan, Melinda Joseph, Meredith Burkitt, Michael Anderson, Michael Dorf, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mike McGrath, Mike Walters Trio, Miki Ferenczy, Mila Samokhina, Mildred Nosko, Nancy Steinwald, Natalie Martinez, Nena Ivon, Nina Mariano, One Hope United, Operation Push, Oprah Winfrey, Pauletta Washington, Race to Mackinac, Rachel Patel, Raymi Productions, Reggie Wells, Regina Rice, Reginald Robinson and the 5th Element, Richard Milone, Richard Roeper, Rick Canada, Roe and Roeper, Roe Conn, Ron Falzone, Ronnie Steinwald, Rosemary Fanti, Sam Yanover, Sarah Cooley, Sarah Noonan, Sargent & Lundy, Secret Millionaire, Shaun Rajah, Shea Vaughn, Sherrill Bodine, St. Vincent de Paul Center & Marillac Social Center, Stanley Paul, Stella Foster, Steve Starr, Steven Vath, Stewart Talent, Sujata Gazder, Susan Mena, TalkChic, The Musical Art Institute, Thomas Kelly, Todd Burkitt, Tom Margulis, Tom Ward, Toni Canada, U.S.S. Stennis, Underground, Urban Gateways, Veuve Clicquot, White Party

June 13, 2012 · 9:39 am

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

February 23, 2012 · 9:28 pm

RPM ITALIAN OPENING BRINGS OUT CHICAGO’S WHO’S WHO!

…PLUS CHICAGO DESIGNERS AT NY’S EMERGE! SHOW, ZOOLA IS OOH-LA-LA, AUTO SHOW HIGHLIGHTS, WINDY CITY WEST’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY, TAVERNITA OPENS BIG, NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND MORE!

When the Melmans speak, everyone listens…especially when it comes to new restaurants! They are the experts, as the opening of their latest venture, RPM Italian Restaurant, with reality stars Bill and Giuliana Rancic (E! Channel’s “Fashion Police” and Style Network’s “Giuliana & Bill”) proved on Saturday night, February 18th. After months of planning, this new restaurant, in partnership with acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, the Rancics and restaurateurs RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman, will be the new “IT” spot for the Windy City. The star studded crowd of 500 made your head swivel at every sighting. Seen on the scene were Coach Lovie Smith and his beautiful wife MaryAnne, Bears cornerback Charles Tillman and his wife Jackie, Windy City Live's Val Warner, Ryan Chiaverini, Nina Chantelle and Eric Himel, the Sun-Times’ and Fox Chicago’s Bill Zwecker, Ronald McDonald Charities’ Doug Porter, Sun-Times columnist Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley, ABC’s Sylvia Perez, former Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias with Tara Flocco, fitness expert Shea Vaughn, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, The Mix’s Kathy Hart, Bears defensive tackle Matt Toeaina, Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan, Sonya Jackson, Tim and Mary Smithe, the Landon twins, NBC 5’s Marion Brooks, Stefan Holt and Alicia Roman, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano, Watch312.com’s Bob and Kim Mills and Lindsay, Erica and Stevie Hoey, Paul Iacono, Cindy Burns, Catie Keogh and Jeff Conway of “24/7,” designer Azeeza Khan, Lisa Frame, NBC's Marcus Riley, artist Jesus Salgueiro, Justin Jacobson, Vincent Anzalone, Karen and Marvin Herman, BOKA
Group's Kevin Boehm, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, Amalie Drury and JC Steinbrunner among so many others. Susanna Negovan commented that if a bomb had dropped on this place this night, Chicago would have to start over! The sexy 8,000-foot space at 52 W. Illinois (in the old Ben Pao spot) was designed by NYC based Monolayer. Its chic, modern and sophisticated décor is set in tones of black, white and grey and is ideal for dinner or late night. And I can guarantee you, the bar scene will be something to behold. Acclaimed bartender Paul McGee (director of cocktail development for Lettuce Entertain You) has designed signature cocktails as well as created an expansive list of wines that include more than 100 American and Italian vintners. The restaurant will also include a six-seat Amaro bar and offer a menu of digestives – true to an authentic Italian dining experience. The menu presents modern Italian cuisine with a nod to the classics and will include more than a dozen freshly prepared in-house pastas. A highlight will be Mama DePandi’s Bucatini Pomadoro – a much-loved recipe from Giuliana’s mother! – duck angolotti with black mission figs, short rib pappardelle, taleggio and black truffle tortellini, whole wood-grilled Branzino, lobster caprese, wood grilled octopus, gnocchi gorgonzola al forno as well as a selection of prime steaks, chops and slow-roasted meats. Chef Doug Psaltis brings a wealth of experience to this project having earned three stars from the New York Times and a Michelin star while running the kitchen of NY’s Country restaurant. Psaltis has also worked in some of the world’s most esteemed restaurants including Alain Duscasse at the Essex House in NY, Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant in Monaco, Le Louis XV, Mix in NY, and Thomas Keller’s French Laundry in Napa Valley. Psaltis said, “Our focus throughout the restaurant is on offering great product and handcrafted items. The process is traditional, the spirit is Italian and the feel of the space and the food is modern.” Giuliana said, “Bill and I knew we wanted to work with the best so we’re excited to have teamed up with the Melmans and partner with one of the country’s most accomplished chefs. Doug has really done an amazing job creating our menu. Everything he cooks is delish so it was hard to narrow down our final choices!” Fans and foodies alike can get a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant’s planning process and opening as the details unfold in Season 5 of the Rancics’ hit Style Network show, “Bill and Giuliana,” premiering Monday, April 2nd at 8 p.m. In the meantime, check out the opening night action below on “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com – buon appetito! And to vote for your favorite “Candid Candace Chicago” celebrity interview, please click here!

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The Chicago Auto Show closed this Sunday and was another crowd pleaser with more than 8,000 people attending on opening night alone! The 21st First Look for Charity gave the black-tie-mandatory crowd a chance to view more than 1,000 vehicles before the 10-day show opened to the public. Eighteen local non-profits benefited from this night that raised over $1.2 million for charities and included the 100 Club of Chicago, Boys & Girls Clubs, Catholic Charities, The Cradle Foundation and Misericordia. With auto show covering over 1.2 million square feet of space at McCormick Place, this show is NOT high heel friendly but the people at Cadillac provided pink slippers and foot massages at their gorgeous booth that also highlighted the Ciel, their dramatic new concept car. Blues Traveler performed while guests meandered through the space and enjoyed many interactive exhibits including a Jeep Wrangler obstacle course (one for kiddies, too), a Chevy Volt electric car ride, a playing card table at Scion and a Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 engine experience among others. You could even renew your driver's license at the Secretary of State's booth! Twenty restaurants participated including Fogo de Chao, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Andy's Frozen Custard, Devon Seafood, Roy's Restaurant, Real Urban BBQ and David Burke's Primehouse. Cadillac donated two outstanding and much coveted raffle prizes: The first prize was won by Jill Nelson of Wheeling who will be driving a 2012 Escalade soon and the second prize, donated by Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, was a Cadillac SRX, won by Homer Glen's Richard Onik. And to make these prizes even more exciting, a year of free gas was included! Notables onstage for this giveaway included emcee Alison Rosati, Larry Wert, Steve Foley, Jr. (auto show chairman), Dave Sloan (general manager) and Paul Brian (director of communications). Since First Look for Charity's inception in 1992, this event has raised more than $34 million for Chicago area non-profits. To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to view “Candid Candace Chicago” video coverage on Watch312.com, please see below!!!)

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Dionne Williams has done it again! Her third Emerge! Fashion Runway Show provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work during New York Fashion Week and has grown quicker than anyone could’ve imagined! Fashion legend Andre Leon Talley was honored at the show held on February 14th at the Broad Street Ballroom. He was presented with his award by legendary designer and president of the CFDA, Diane Von Furstenberg. The spectacular program was hosted by actress Tracee Ellis Ross with co-host model Chavis Aaron. More than 500 guests attended and included retail buyers, media, celebrities and fashion influencers. This season’s elite group of designers included Elie Kuame (Elie Kuame Couture), Michael Alan Stein (The Michael Alan Stein Collection), Gordana Rasic and Omar Villalobos (GOCA Designs), Terri Stevens (Funkinbeautiful Design), Jahi Fitzgerald (Evoli Faccion) and Barbara Bates (Barbara Bates Designs). For more information on this exciting, must-attend event, please visit www.EmergeFashionNYC.com and to view ALL event pics, please click here!

The Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo held its 10th annual ZooLa fundraiser in the stunning residence of Elizabeth Foster and Michael Walsh on Wednesday, February 8th – an event that earned over $180,000 to ensure that Lincoln Park Zoo remains free and open to everyone year round. During the cocktail hour, Chicago artist Francine Turk created an oil-on-canvas original to be auctioned later, while guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres by J & L Catering. The event was co-chaired by Susan Flynn, Mary MacGregor and Kim Theiss. Also in attendance were WB president Abby Zanarini, Lincoln Park Zoo president Kevin Bell and a host of friends of the zoo. John Walcher of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers led the live auction that included lively bidding for a Chanel package. This unique offering included Chanel Fine Jewelry Planete earrings in white gold, diamonds and South Sea pearls plus a private tour of Coco Chanel’s private apartment in Paris. Other packages included a chance to join "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano at his show during NY Fashion Week as well as a Masters Golf package courtesy of Intersport. (To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

Don’t miss Windy City West celebrating 25 years of Chicagoans in entertainment in LA! This event, produced by Brenda Sexton’s Chicago Link Productions, will feature comedian Tom Dreesen as the emcee at RJ and Jerrod Melman’s popular LA-based restaurants, M Street Kitchen and Stella Rossa Pizza Bar. On Monday, March 5th, many of the original founders of Windy City West will host a private event for 350 VIP guests where they plan to honor Cubs’ chairman Tom Ricketts. Ricketts will receive the 2012 Windy City West “Man of the Year” award recognizing his many contributions to Chicago sports and commerce. The event was founded by Chicago writer/producer Ginny Weissman, Tom Dreesen and Rich Melman 25 years ago as a “culinary camaraderie,” a simple annual get-together for fellow Chicagoans yearning for a “taste of home, and now attracts some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Watch this space for further coverage of this annually exciting event!

Congrats to darling Chef Ryan Poli on the opening of his new restaurant, Tavernita, at 151 W. Erie! Owned and operated by Mercadito Hospitality, this restaurant features the world-class cuisine of chef/partner Poli and embodies the flavors of Spain and Latin America! Opening night attracted more than 500 fans to this hotspot! Can’t wait to try it – congrats Chef Poli!

Wow, Chicago is exploding with hot new restaurants and lots of excitement, as you can see! Thanks for letting me bring you to the party! Hope you enjoyed the ride and will be back next week for more Windy City fun!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Please check out this eSmiles program benefitting the new Ronald McDonald House! It’s an easy way for them to make $10,000! Just email a note, card or photo everyday from your emails and your message will be posted in the family room for all of the families to enjoy! For details, please visit www.hpesmiles.com or send your message to RMHChicagoCNI@eprintesmiles.com .

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Tagged as 100 Club of Chicago, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Abby Zanarini, ABC, Alain DUscasse, Alexi Giannoulias, Alicia Roman, Alison Rosati, Amalie Drury, Andre Leon Talley, Andrea Schwartz, Andy's Frozen Custard, Azeeza Khan, Barbara Bates, Barbara Bates Designs, Ben Pao, Bill Rancic, Bill Zwecker, Blues Traveler, Bob Mills, Bob Sirott, BOKA Group, Boys & Girls Clubs, Brenda Sexton, Cadillac, Cadillac SRX, Candid Candace Chicago, Catholic Charities, Catie Keogh, CFDA, Chanel, Charles Tillman, Chavis Aaron, Chef Doug Psaltis, Chef Ryan Poli, Chevy Volt, Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Bears, Chicago Link Productions, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, Christian Siriano, Cindy Burns, Coach Lovie Smith, Coco Chanel, Country, Dave Sloan, David Burke's Primehouse, Devon Seafood, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dionne Williams, Doug Porter, E! Channel, Elie Kuame, Elie Kuame Couture, Elizabeth Foster, Emerge! Fashion Runway Show, Eric Himel, Erica Hoey, eSmiles, Essex House, Evoli Faccioni, Fashion Police, First Look for Charity, Fogo de Chao, Ford Shelby Mustang GT500, Fox Chicago, Francine Turk, French Laundry, Funkinbeautiful Design, Ginny Weissman, Giuliana & Bill, Giuliana Rancic, GOCA Designs, Gordana Rasic, Intersport, Jackie Tillman, Jahi Fitzgerald, JC Steinbrunner, Jeep Wrangler, Jeff Conway of 24/7, Jerrod Melman, Jesus Salgueiro, Jill Nelson, John Walcher, Justin Jacobson, Karen Herman, Kathy Hart, Kevin Bell, Kevin Boehm, Kim Mills, Kim Theiss, Larry Wert, Laura Schwartz, Le Louis XV, Leslie Hindman Associates, Lettuce Entertain You, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lindsay Hoey, Lisa Frame, M Street Kitchen, Mama DePandi, Marcus Riley, Marianne Murciano, Marion Brooks, Marvin Herman, Mary MacGregor, Mary Smithe, MaryAnne Smith, Masters Golf, Matt Toeaina, Mercadito Hospitality, Michael Alan Stein, Michael Walsh, Michelin star, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Mila Samokhina, Misericordia, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Mix, Molly Melman, Monolayer, Napa Valley, NBC, New York Fashion Week, Omar Villalobos, Paul Brian, Paul Iacono, Paul McGee, Project Runway, Real Urban BBQ, Rich Melman, Richard Onik, Richard Roeper, RJ Melman, Ronald McDonald Charities, Roy's Restaurant, RPM Italian, Ryan Chiaverini, Sarah Cooley, Scion, Secretary of State, Shea Vaughn, Sonya Jackson, Stefan Holt, Stella Rossa Pizza Bar, Steve Foley Jr., Stevie Hoey, Style Network, Susan Flynn, Susanna Negovan, Sylvia Perez, Tara Flocco, Tavernita, Terri Stevens, The Cradle Foundation, the Landon twins, The Michael Alan Stein Collection, The Mix, Thomas Keller, Tim Smithe, Tom Dreesen, Tom Ricketts, Tracee Ellis Ross, Val Warner, Vincent Anzalone, Watch312.com, Windy City Live, Windy City West, Women;s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo, Zoo La

January 17, 2012 · 10:35 pm

CHICAGO FILM CRITICS AWARDS: A STARRY, STARRY NIGHT

…PLUS IAN SCHRAGER’S PARTY AT PUBLIC CHICAGO, FREDERIC FEKKAI IS FETED AT NOMI, JOFFREY BRIDGE PROGRAM, SEND GOCA TO NYFW, WINTER IN CHICAGO AND MORE!

What a full week in Chicago! And here I was worried I wouldn’t have anything to write about at this time of the year! The Chicago Film Critics and Comedy Awards Show can be described in one word: surreal. I have never seen so many stars in one place in such an intimate setting. I was told to come to the Ritz’ 11th floor for a press conference, that I thought was supposed to begin at 4 p.m., but sadly had started at 3 p.m. and was over by the time I arrived. So, I waited in a little anteroom with a few other people who included ABC 7’s Janet Davies, PR whiz Dionne Williams, photogs Mila Samokhina and Shauna Bittle along with a few others. I was sure I had missed my opportunity when event creator/founder Sharee Pemberton swept into the room along with Event Creative’s Lisa Newman. I had previously been invited for dinner but figured this would be a massive affair and I would never even get close to the stars to get photos but boy was I mistaken! Sharee opened doors to reveal an intimate dining room set up with a beautiful buffet for around 25 to 30 people! I couldn’t believe it when I saw George Lucas and Mellody Hobson come in with the cast from “Red Tails” including handsome Terrence Howard, Nate Parker, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and director Anthony Hemingway. As if this wasn’t enough, James Earl Jones arrived with his protective wife, Cece. It was, as I said, surreal! I sat with N’Digo’s witty Hermene Hartman, DuSable Museum Prez Carol Adams and Dionne Williams among others at a table right next to Lucas who was seated next to Mr. Jones. Others seen at the dinner included Abe Thompson and his beautiful wife Angela, Tyronne Stoudemire, Urban Prep’s Tim King, Roe Conn with glam wife Barb, Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley (just back from Mexico together), “The Muppets” writer and star Jason Segel and Tara Jenkins among a few others. Before the dinner began, Pastor Charles Jenkins gave a blessing. Every time James Earl Jones spoke, the room quieted to a whisper just to hear his legendary voice. What a thrill! After the dinner, we all filed downstairs to the Broadway Playhouse in Water Tower Place. Before the awards show began, there was a video presentation featuring movies filmed in Chicago that included clips from the “Blues Brothers,” “Home Alone,” “About Last Night” and others. Then emcees Roe Conn and Richard Roeper came to the podium, Richard with a glass of red wine. After he toasted the crowd, he explained that the proceeds from the sale of these embossed wine glasses would benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. As they mentioned the honorees, Roeper commented on Chicago’s own Dennis Farina by jokingly saying, “Farina hasn’t been a cop in 25 years and still had the fourth highest arrest record.” Shirley MacLaine accepted her Commitment to the Craft Award via a video. Roe Conn said, “Shirley couldn’t be here but she did send an astral projection.” Then the cast of “Red Tails” was introduced to wild applause followed by announcements of winners for Best Original Score (“Drive”), Best Cinematography (“Tree of Life”), Most Promising Performer (Elizabeth Olsen for “Marcy Martha May Marlene”); Most Promising Filmmaker (Sean Durkin for “Marcy Martha May Marlene”), Best Foreign Film (“A Separation” from Iran), Best Documentary (Steve James for “The Interrupters”) and Best Animated Feature (“The Adventures of Tintin”). After these awards were announced, RMHC’s Doug Porter told the crowd of 400 that the new Ronald McDonald House, which will be the world’s largest, will open in June and provide 95 rooms for families every night. The next award for Best Original Screenplay went to the “The Artist” – FANTASTIC and a must-see! – followed by Best Adapted Screenplay (“Moneyball”), Best Supporting Act
ress (Jessica Chastain for “Tree of Life”) and Best Supporting Actor (Albert Brooks for “Drive”). Brooks accepted his award via video as well and said, “I am sorry I can’t be there tonight. Someone forgot to pick me up from my hotel.” Jason Segel was honored by the Comedia in Excellence Award. (He was so cute and kept flirting with the model/actress who presented the exquisite awards created by Crystal Cave.) Final awards went to Michael Shannon, a Red Orchid Theatre ensemble member (“Take Shelter”) for Best Actor; Michelle Williams (“My Week with Marilyn”) for Best Actress; Terrence Malick (“Tree of Life”) for Best Director and Best Picture (“Tree of Life”). The first Oscar Micheaux Award was presented to James Earl Jones, who commented that his father starred in Micheaux’ 1939 melodrama, “Lying Lips.” The first Comedy Awards came next with honors going to Antonio Banderas, Anne Hathaway, George Clooney, Melissa McCarthy, “The Adventures of Tintin” and Alexander Payne. The Second City theater group was recognized with the Big Shoulders Award. The Nichols Sisters, Jennifer Hudson’s cousins, brought the house down to close the show by singing “Happy Birthday” to event planner extraordinaire, Lisa Newman. The after-party continued back at the Ritz where Dennis Farina and his longtime girlfriend Marianne Cahill were seen greeting the guests. Huge kudos to CFCA President Dann Gire and Executive Producer (and Comedy Awards founder) Sharee Pemberton on a memorable night in the Windy City! I can’t wait to see what next year brings!

The parties never stop in Paris by the Prairie: On Tuesday, January 10th, TWO fabulous parties happened within hours of one another! The first event, hosted by hotelier Ian Schrager, was held at his PUBLIC Chicago and celebrated the launch of award-winning Chef
Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s latest cookbook, “Home Cooking with Jean-Georges: My Favorite Simple Recipes.” The place was packed with 150 fans and friends all anxious to chat with Chef Jean-Georges and get their books signed. A Q & A followed with Ian, Chef Jean Georges and Pump Room Executive Chef Bradford Phillips. When asked that the difference was between cooking for people in NYC versus Chicago, Jean-Georges replied, “The people are nicer here.” Well, he instantly created 150 new friends for life! Seen on the scene were Victor Skrebneski, Michael Kutza, Karen and Marvin Herman, Dennis Minkel, Sherren Leigh, Dan Uslan, Rebecca Besser, handsome hairstylist Frederic Fekkai (who had appeared on “Windy City Live” that morning with Chef Jean-Georges), WCL’s Valerie Warner, Ryan Chiaverini and social media expert Ji Suk Yi, WCL producer Marlaine Selip, Cheeky Chicks Erica Bethe Levin and Joran Thompson, PR whiz Jill Katz (who planned the party), Playboy’s Jimmy Jellinek (Jill’s little brother), Alpana Singh (“Check, Please!”), legendary Chef Jean Joho, Elena Samokhina and Gilt City’s Nicole Banks, among others. To view ALL of the party pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

After the PUBLIC party, it was onto the Park Hyatt’s NoMI restaurant, where hostess with the mostest/awesome author Amy Tara Koch had planned an intimate dinner party for 13 of her friends for hairstylist-to-the-stars, Frederic Fekkai – although as guest Lynn McMahan learned, he was so much more than this, being a helicopter skier, organic gardener, lover of holistic retreats and father of three. Amy kept the guests on their toes by expertly rotating everyone around the table to make sure we all got a chance to chat with Frederic. Lucky guests included Toni Canada, Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser, Rusty and Naomi Reese, Dusty Stemer, Chuck Garfien, Naomi Beckwith and Gale Gottlieb, among others. Watch for Amy’s latest book, “Five Minute Fixes: Easy Style Solutions for Busy Women,” coming soon. Can’t wait to buy it and use it! (To view ALL pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here!)

We all know about The Joffrey Ballet but not enough people are aware of their wonderful Bridge Program that was launched in the fall of 2010. Dance master Pierre Lockett heads up this initiative that provides access for children in Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods to dance instruction, increasing diversity in the Joffrey Academy’s students. Thirty students from each of the 11 schools will receive onsite dance instruction twice a week, with 40 to 50 talented students being tapped to attend Saturday classes at the Joffrey Academy. For more info on the Joffrey’s community outreach programs, please click here.

We have such an amazing community of young designers here in Chicago and recently, the design team from GOCA (Gordana Rasic and Omar Villabos) were invited to show at the Emerge! Show during New York Fashion Week. And as is often the case with new designers, their budgets aren’t as bright as their futures, so please join me in a “GOCA Fundraiser: Making Dreams Come True” party on Friday, January 27th at NV Penthouse Lounge, located at 116 W. Hubbard from 6 – 9 p.m. Host committee members include Sandra Smith-Doghmi, Michelle Gomez, Shari Duffy, Benjamin Cottrell and Amir Attaie. GOOOO GOCA!

If you’re looking for a magical night for kids of all ages, then please check out the world premiere of “The Houdini Box” coming to the Mercury Theatre at 3745 N. Southport Ave. on January 24th (through March 4th). This Chicago Children’s Theatre production is based on Brian Selznick’s first book of the same name. The Tribune’s Chris Jones called it one of the “top 10 shows to watch for in 2012.” Selznick is also the author of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” the basis for Martin Scorcese’s current smash hit, Golden Globe winner for Best Director, “Hugo. For more info, please click here!

We all knew it was coming…it was just a matter of time. And now that it’s here, I feel like winter has really arrived. There is nothing quite as beautiful as that first snowfall. Sigh…but now I am done with it and ready for spring!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Look at my new iPhone cover by Caitlin Saville Collins! Not only do you get a great case but you also get a photo session with this wonderful photog. LOVE this wonderful gift idea, Caitlin! For more info, please contact Caitlin at c.savillephotography@gmail.com or click here for her website.