Tag Archives: Roe Conn

DESIGNER BORRIS POWELL WOWS THE CHICAGO FASHION CROWD!

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

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

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

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


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


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And now for some event updates!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nicole and Dempsey photoLove,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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OSCAR FUN AND FASHION AT THE GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER!

…PLUS PAWS’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM, SUCCESS IS A JOURNEY, CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION'S STREET STYLE, BEAR TIE BALL, 60 STYLISH CHICAGOANS, STELLA’S HONOR, NINA AND BOB'S BIG DAY, JACK IS ONE, MY LATEST WATCH312.COM AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - 2012 co-chairsThe red carpet beckoned at the Gene Siskel Film Center for the only Academy Awards show in Chicago sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Movie Blog 2 - Tracey and Ray Samlow, Event Chairlovers came dressed to the nines on this night, many inspired by some of the nominated films. Host Amanda Puck was dressed in black and white from her favorite shop, Space 519, in honor of “The Artist” and guest Allan Caliman did the same and won “The Artist Look Alike” award on this night! Other inspired winners included Renny Blog 3 - Richard and Ellen Sandor (2nd from L) and friendsRhanna for “Marilyn Monroe Look Alike,” Jenna Plakut and Matthew Sullivan for “Power Couple,” Mila Samokhina for “Best Dressed Paparazzi,” Chris O’Dea for “Best Dressed Man,” Monika Rydz for “Best Dressed Woman,” Blog 4 - Ellen Kollar, Jean de St. Aubin and Tim KollarElena Samokhina for “Jessica Chastain Look Alike,” Jamie Sterle for “Zooey Deschanel Look Alike” and Emile Sile for “Morgan Freeman Look Alike.” It was a happy crowd with everyone hoping their favorites would win. The buffet dinner – Blog 5generously donated by MJ Catering – also gave a nod to the theme of the evening: Each dish was inspired by a film! There was Hawaiian salmon (“The Descendants”), thyme beef encroute (“Hugo”), roasted veggies (“Tree of Life”), southern style potato gratin (“The Help”) and asparagus and Blog 6 - A rapt audiencegruyere tart (“Midnight in Paris”). I loved seeing the movie going crowd so excited and it was contagious. I had my own personal favorites and they included “Hugo,” “Midnight in Paris” and “The Artist” and Chuck’s favorite was “Moneyball.” We both laughed so hard over “Bridesmaids” that it was ridiculous…actually, why don’t more Blog 7comedies get nominated? I think we should be throwing a little love their way right about now. And I have to say, as I watched the actual awards ceremony in one of the two state-of-the-art Blog 8theaters where the 84th Annual Academy Awards show was presented courtesy of ABC7 Chicago, that I had some other thoughts. First of all, we all get it…Angelina is gorgeous but that leg-throwing thing really disappointed me. This is a woman who should NOT be trying this hard. And, as Stella Foster so aptly put it Blog 9in the Sun-Times, “Angelina Jolie was elegant in black, but she could have kept that boney leg under wraps.” I love Stella, always telling it like it is! And now, here are my highlights: I Blog 10loved Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz’s booty shot when they were presenting…too awesome and both glam, glam, glam! I loved both the gowns but Diaz’s won in my opinion. When she came out to present and those feathers were flying in all the right Michael and Roopa Weberplaces, I was thrilled for her. I loved Billy Crystal from beginning to end. I am tired of nastiness, not only at awards shows but anywhere – life is hard enough…let’s try to be nice to each other! Funny can be nice, Blog 12as Billy has proven time and time again; I loved his comment about being in a theatre (“These are the places to laugh, to cry and to text.”), his comment about being at the “beautiful Chapter 11 Theatre…” and finally, “We have puppets and acrobats…we’re a Blog 13pony away from being a bar mitzvah.” Gene Siskel Film Center Executive Director Jean de St. Aubin said, “As Chicago’s premiere movie theater, we look forward every year to hosting the official Oscar party to celebrate achievements in Blog 14 - Joel Mangers and friend in Action Boothfilm. We’re thrilled to be sold out again and the crowd is so glamorous…it rivals the real red carpet.” Associate Director of Development Joel Mangers had this to say about the event: “Fun, sexy…everybody is having a Blog 15 - Mila and Elena Samokhinagreat time! It’s the most fun you can have outside of Hollywood!” I thought it was interesting, too, that the last baseball film nominated was “Field of Dreams.” I loved “Moneyball” (probably for all the wrong reasons!) and who could believe Sandra Bullock could speak German Mandarin Blog 16Chinese??!! Penelope Cruz was perfect from head to toe, as usual. I’m thrilled Meryl Streep won – 17 nominations and now three wins – and isn’t it refreshing that she is still so humble? I loved her speech and loved the fact that her first shout-out was to her beloved husband, Don Gummer, to whom she Blog 17 - Emcee Amanda Puck and Andrea Schwartzhas been married for 34 years. I also loved the Cirque du Soleil performance, although I think it was much more impactful in the theater than on TV as the standing ovation proved. It was a Blog 18real treat to cover this night at the Gene Siskel Film Center for my show, “Candid Candace Chicago,” on Watch312.com. We have the greatest crew and I want
to thank them all here now: Cameraman/editor Fred Jackson, producer Jill Bastian, editor Josh Orr, executive producer Bill Natale, producer John Basile and cameraman Brian Kaempen (Split Film Blog 19 - Lee Litas and her darling momProductions). I hope you enjoy this video as much as I enjoyed making it! 🙂 Congrats and thanks to the Gene Siskel Film Center for presenting such wonderful independent and international cinema, film festivals, cutting edge programs, premieres, retrospectives and classic films. Their next event will honor actress Reese Witherspoon on June 23rd at the Ritz-Carlton. Check here for more info. (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina…click here for more!)

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Blog 1 - Co-Chairs Ashley & Noah Pettit (their PAWS dog Arthur), Courtney & Eric WeilerPAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism Party attracted a fun-loving and fur-filled crowd of more than 300 people and 80 pets to their sixth annual event at Galleria Marchetti on February 17th. The evening Blog 2 - Hosts Angi Taylor & Brotha’ Fred with PAWS Founder & Chair, Paula Fasseas (center)was hosted by KISS FM’s Brotha Fred and Angi Taylor and included dinner, dancing, photo ops and a one-of-a-kind live and silent auction. Highlights included the chance to fly a military aircraft under the guidance of an expert instructor. The Blog 3 - Alexis Fasseas, Susan Monahan & Jamie McLaughlinaircraft was the North American SNJ-5, the Navy version of the T-6, which trained almost every allied fighter pilot during WWII and into the Korean War. This amazing package sold for only $550!!! Four premium seats for a Cubs game three rows behind Blog 4 - Guests hit the dance floorfirst base included a party bus to the game and sold for only $600. (Now you see another reason why you should be coming to these events: great auction deals!) A trip to NY with two VIP tickets to “The Late Blog 5Show with Jimmy Fallon” sold for $2,450. During the evening, Petco Foundation was honored for its extraordinary donations to PAWS Chicago’s Pet Food Bank and the GusMobile. This medical van visits Chicago’s low income communities offering free Blog 7 - Peter Fasseas with Lindsay & Chris Carlton and their adopted PAWS Chicago pooch Eloisespay/neuter services as well as medical care. PAWS will save 4,500 homeless cats and dogs this year and spay or neuter more than 18,000 pets, the majority free for families who can’t afford this on their own. “It is so inspiring to see so many young Nevena Zee and friendsprofessionals, passionate about helping Chicago’s homeless animals,” said PAWS founder Paula Fasseas. Guests seen on the scene included Paul Earle and Ellen Rudnick, Hank, Anne and Haleigh Bernbaum, Neal Lenhoff (who generously donated $2K during the Bid to Save Lives), Andrew Pitt, Kim Gleeson, Richard Doermer, Lindsay Walter, Chris Carlton, Dr. Steve Stryker and Andrea Schwartz. This event raised more than $90,000 and was co-chaired by Ashley and Noah Pettit and Courtney and Eric Weiler. (Check out additional event pics by Sparenga Photography here!)

Blog 1 - Hosts Patrycja Drozdek, Monika Dixon and Jennifer ChristensonI was thrilled to be a part of the recent Success is a Journey seminar hosted by JMP Global’s Monika Dixon, Jennifer Christianson and Patrycja Drozdek at Hotel 71. The room was packed with more than 200 guests Blog 2 - Keynote speaker James Tarantino and his wifeinterested in hearing about the success and personal development of the panelists who included keynote speaker James Tarantino, FanFueled’s Anderson Bell, Boka Group’s Kevin Boehm and fitness expert Andrea Metcalf. Monika Dixon said, “Success is not a destination…it is a journey. This understanding comes when something Blog 3 - Host Jennifer Christenson (R) and glam guesthappens in your life that shakes up the very core of your being. Our panelists discussed what it took and the moment that kept them motivated. Every time they overcame a challenge that was just beyond their reach of capabilities, it gave them a feeling of worth and of value. It is then that they realized the next step and Blog 4 - With Monika Dixon and speaker Anderson Bellfound themselves already looking ahead to the next horizon, just beyond their view, but still surrounded by the feelings of accomplishment for the current successes.” Couldn’t have said it better myself, Monika! All of the speakers shared amazing stories of their Blog 5 - Speaker Andrea Metcalf (R) and friendsuccesses and failures and how it changed them as people. Guests seen on the scene included Kamil Bartoszcze, Chris Foltz, Paul Iacono, Rachel Schwanz, Corinne Meier, Anthony Farinas, Kasia Jarosz, Ryan Blog 6 - Monika with Paul Iacono and Rachel SchwanzBeshel, Zoryana Yavorski, Lonnie Rodriguez, Nevsy Zee, Eva Pawlus, Alexandra Wilson, Patrick Meyn, Kara Moore, Patricia Bielecka, Ruth Diaz Fabiny and Nicole Townsend. Thanks so much for including me! See my speech below and to hear ALL of the speakers, please find their names on YouTube. (To view ALL event photos by Photo Affair Studios, please click here.)

Nena IvonAnd speaking of speakers, legendary fashionista Nena Ivon, along with partners Linda Heister and Jane Laidlow, have created their very own speaker’s bureau, the Chicago Speaker’s Bureau called TALKSCHIC! The intent of TALKCHIC! is to provide lifestyle speakers for spouse programs, women’s groups, executive business meetings, cruises, panels, etc. If you or someone you know are interested, please send a bio to Nena Ivon at 222 E. Pearson St., Suite 2305, Chicago, IL 60611. 

RTRFlyerLots of fun events coming up! You won’t want to miss the Red Pump Project on Saturday, March 24th at the Society Art Gallery at 2140 W. Fulton St. from 6 to 9 p.m. This event will be held in honor of National Women and Kim-Coles-229x300Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and will feature Kim Coles, actress, comedian and motivational speaker. This is the third annual Rock the Red Fashion Show, showcasing up and coming designers from around Chicago. So ladies, prepare to rock your red pumps and fellas, rock your red ties to bring attention and awareness to the impact that HIV/AIDS has on women and girls. Awareness is always in style! 

2012_SPRING_SCHOLARSHIP_EVENT-CFF-1-30-2012-woutThe Chicago Fashion Foundation is hosting its annual scholarship event on Wednesday, March 7th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington from 6 to 9 p.m. “Street Style: Chicago Fashion through Chicago Communities” will showcase the work of 10 local fashion students Peach Carrwho will present looks representative of the signature street style of Chicago’s neighborhoods including Rogers Park, Chinatown, Andersonville and Ukrainian Village. The event will start with a cocktail reception in Preston Bradley Hall followed by the fashion show with three scholarships being awarded in the amounts of $500, $1,000 and Event Host Corri McFadden$5,000. I am thrilled to be a judge along with the always-darling Peach Carr (“Project Runway”), Jon Cotay (Akira founder), Catie Keogh (NBC’s “24/7”), Andrea Schwartz (Macy’s) and Diego Rocha (“Project Accessory”). E-Drop Off’s Corri McFadden will be the emcee for the evening. After the runway show, former winners will debut their spring collections while Too Faced Cosmetics recreates the runway beauty looks from the evening. Tickets are $25 for students, $35 for general admission and $55 for VIP (which includes a gift bag). Hope to see you all there! I will be filming for my Watch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” and would love to see your darling, fashionable faces on camera! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Rhythms_for_a_Reason_2.sflbPlease join me for the 2012 Bear Tie Ball benefitting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation on Saturday, March 10th. This is always a wonderful event for a great cause and I hope you will all come! The event is called Rhythm for a Reason and that means they’re “gonna rattle the walls, shake a leg, and come together to make a difference in the lives of Roe and Barb Conn and Valerie Warnerchildren and families battling pediatric cancer.” The night will begin at 6 p.m. at the UIC Forum with beloved co-chairs Nina Mariano and Tracy Scurto. Emcees for the evening will be Roe Conn and Val Warner from “Windy City Live.” Dining, dancing and awesome auctions all for a great cause! I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please click here! Black tie preferred but favorite musical era flair also encouraged!

And while we’re on the subject of Nina Mariano, please enjoy this sweet video of her and her hubby, Bob, along with members of Roundy’s management team ringing the bell for the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on February 10th! Only two conventional grocers have successfully gone public in the past 15 years – Dominick’s and Roundy’s – both of which were lead by the same CEO, Bob Mariano! Congrats, Nina and Bob! A much deserved honor!

TCW Mag coverA big thanks to TCW Magazine for including me in their “A-List – 60 Chicagoans of Style” feature! To see who was included, READ THE MAGAZINE or click here! 🙂

Stella FosterAnd last, but certainly not least, mark your calendars for yet another much deserved honor for Sun-Times super-scribe Stella Foster! The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans will be presenting her with their prestigious Dante Award at their luncheon on May 17th at Galleria Marchetti! Last year, Linda Yu received this award, as well as Stella’s mentor, Irv Kupcinet, years prior. Just love this girl who tells it like it is! For tickets and more info, please visit www.jccia.com. Congrats, Stella!!!

Well, as the NY Times says, “that’s all the news that’s fit to print” (although this isn’t really the case…I have lots more!). Just wait till next week! 🙂
 
Sharyl and Jackson MackeyLove,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Mike and Jackson MackeyP.S. I was so happy to attend the most incredible baby birthday party! Everyone I know was at Saddle & Cycle recently to toast Jackson Mackey’s first birthday. I don’t know if he’ll remember it but I sure will! The amazing décor was by Debi Lilly from A Perfect Event and will most certainly be appearing soon on a show near you! Just look at these pics and you’ll see why everyone was so happy to be a part of this little guy’s big day! Happy birthday, sweet Jack! 🙂

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KERRY WOOD HITS HOME RUN WITH “WOODY’S WINTER WARM-UP”

…PLUS A CLOSE ENCOUNTER WITH GEORGE CLOONEY (SADLY, NOT MINE), JESSICA RADLOFF'S CRITICS' CHOICE HIGHLIGHTS, MORRIS' ONE-MAN SHOW, A VALENTINE'S SHOW UNLIKE ANY OTHER, RANDOLPH MARKET INFO AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Yolanda Linneman, Kerry Wood and fan Ronnie Woo WooThe queue of white stretch limos out in front of Harry Caray’s was the first thing you noticed besides the plethora of news trucks. I think every station in town Blog 2 - Limos at the ready!was at Navy Pier to cover Cubs’ pitcher Kerry Wood and his beautiful wife Sarah’s first “Woody’s Winter Warm-Up” fundraiser. The place was packed with sports stars, TV personalities, fans and Blog 3 - Valerie Warner styling behind the barfriends, all there to support popular Cubs pitcher Kerry and his Wood Family Foundation, the beneficiary of the night. “Woody” had recruited guest bartenders who suited up in t-shirts and bar aprons and competed for tips Blog 4 - Cubs catcher Michael Brenlywhile serving drinks and food to guests. Volunteers included Val Warner (“Windy City Live”), Lou Cannelis (Fox Chicago), Peter McMurrary (The Loop FM), Cubs players Ryan Dempster, Tony Campana, Travis Wood, Chris Voldstad, Ian Stewart, Matt Garza, Randy Wells, Marlon Byrd, former Cub Rick Sutcliffe, Jon Lieber, Gary Blog 5 - Dutchie Caray surrounded by fansMatthews, Michael Brenly and new manager Dale Sveum. Even Bears players Otis Wilson, Richard Dent and Israel Catie Keogh enlists a new 24-7 reporter for Tom RickettsIdonije did some mixing behind the bar. Other notables in attendance included Cubs owners Todd and Tom Ricketts, President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein, Cubs players Jeff Blog 7 - Ernie Banks’ signed jerseySamardzija, Darwin Barney, James Russell, Josh Vitters and David DeJesus, Delores “Dutchie” Caray, Joanna and Grant DePorter, Barb and Roe Conn, event organizer Blog 8 - '85 Bear Otis Wilson and cute friendDaphne Ortiz, Erica Stimac, Catie Keogh and Jeff Conway ("24/7") along with super-fan Ronnie Woo Woo, who was accompanied by his gorgeous daughter, Yolanda Linneman. The evening also included a delicious dinner buffet of Italian beef sandwiches, mini lamb burgers, mac and cheese, rigatoni, Chicago style hotdogs and other tasty treats. The silent auction was a sports lover’s dream come true and many of the offerings had “Do Not Touch” signs Blog 9 - Crowd scene at Harry Caray’snext to them like Ernie Banks’ signed jersey and bat. There were dozens of autographed baseballs, jerseys and other sports related memorabilia as well Blog 10 - Wood’s signed jersey at auctionas a pig roast for 100 courtesy of Carvetti’s in Lake Geneva! The entertainment was world class, too and opened with an acoustic set by singer/songwriter William Beckett. Hosts for the night were Ryan Chiaverini ("Windy City Live") and Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster, who brought the house down with his spot-on Blog 11 - With Theo Epsteinimpersonation of Harry Caray. (He told me he was VERY nervous but no one would've guessed this!) Ryan Chiaverini also sang and played guitar to “Sweet Home Chicago” and even Theo Epstein got in on the action playing “Rockin’ in Blog 12 - A delicious dinner buffet!the Free World” on guitar alongside the Grammy-nominated Plain White T’s. Cubs pitcher Randy Wells sat in for a song (Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’”) that he dedicated to Ron Santo. Blog 13 - Ryan Dempster and Ryan Chiaverini(They closed the show with their number one single, “Hey There Delilah.”) DJ White Shadow (aka Paul Blair) kept the crowd fueled for fun with his hot mixes (he produced Lady Gaga’s Blog 14 - Thomas Strehle wins the top live auction prize“Born this Way” album). An incredible live auction package went to Jim Beam VP Thomas Strehle for $7K and included first pitch privileges, tour of the press box, photo op, four box seats and a half hour batting session with Woody! It was doubled for the under-bidder to bring this package to $14K for the charity! More than $80,000 was raised for the Wood Family Foundation that is dedicated to supporting children’s charities in and around Chicago. To view ALL pics from this fun evening, please click here.
 
Blog 1 - Jessica Radloff giving me a shout-out!The film critics’ award ceremonies are just a recent memory now and, hopefully, all of your favorites won! But for Glamour.com’s West Coast entertainment contributor Jessica Radloff, the Critics' Choice Movie Blog 2 - The HeartthrobAwards will forever be etched in her memory! Of course, there were a gazillion stars there since this is the largest film critics organization in the U.S. and Canada so Jessica happily conducted tons of interviews for the Glamour network including Melissa McCarthy (who was battling laryngitis), Judy Greer (who was hilarious according to Jessica), Ellie Kemper, Wendi McClendon-Covey (who said she would sign up for Blog 3 - OMG! The kiss!“Bridesmaids 2” even if the script sucked), Bridesmaids’ director Paul Feig (“one of the nicest people you'll ever meet in Hollywood”) and Blog 4 - Another heartthrob, Brad!Elle MacPherson (who she interviewed at the NBC/Universal Golden Globes After Party), among others. But of all the stars, the one person at the top of her Wish List of “Five Celebs She’s Dying to Blog 5 - Interviewing Elle MacPherson at after-partyInterview” was George Clooney – “the epitome of a movie star” (and who doesn’t agree??!!!) – so when she saw him approach on the red carpet, she knew this might be her chance. Blog 6 - The cast of Modern FamilyShe said, “George, could I ask you one question for ‘Glamour’?” But in the end, her only thought was to ask for a hug! And he graciously complied giving her “the most wonderful hug and kiss a girl could ever get from her Hollywood crush!” What Blog 7 - Asking George a question backstagea moment for this lucky and deserving lady! (To read Blog 8 - Octavia SpencerJessica’s WHOLE story and see ALL of her fab pics , please click HERE!) But let me back up and give you a little history about this incredible woman with this great job and you’ll understand why Clooney hugged and kissed her: I met Jessica years ago when she did a Blog 9 - Jessica Radloff with her intern Rachelstory about me for AOL.com. She was very gracious and is, of course, a fantastic writer, entertainment and sports host. Jessica hails from St. Louis and graduated from the University of Arizona in only two and a half years majoring in media arts and double Blog 10 - Madonnaminoring in journalism and theatre arts. She got her start in the entertainment industry by interning with NBC Sports in St. Louis, the “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “The Young & the Restless” and Carsey-Werner. Jessica also studied with the Groundlings (a competitive, improvisational troupe based in L.A.) and is a member of the Blog 11 - Interviewing Melissa McCarthyAcademy of Television Arts and Sciences (aka the Emmy organization). She is a regular contributor to Glamour and Glamour.com as well as CS Magazine, Blog 12 - Michelle WilliamsL.A.’s WHERE magazine and HuffPo. For a couple years, Jessica also starred on the Oxygen sitcom, "Campus Ladies" (executive produced by Cheryl Hines) and one of her very first scenes was featured on “Ellen.” As you can see, this girl is well on her way to superstardom. Pretty soon George Clooney will be begging HER for a hug! Congrats Jessica…I’m a FAN! 

OscarBrown2012-624x873There are lots of great shows on the horizon beginning on February 10th at the DuSable Museum with Morris Gearring’s one-man show, “Something ‘Bout Oscar.” This show features Morris’s personal insights and stories about the late Oscar Brown, Jr. (1926 – 2005), a writer, poet, and commentator on life and civil rights plus a collection of Oscar’s most famous songs with musical backup by the respected Calvin “Koco” Brunson and his band. Gearring will be joined onstage by the renowned poet, Nikki Giovanni, and Maggie Brown, daughter of the legendary singer who will perform “Lyric” and duet on “The Last Hurrah.” Don’t miss this outstanding production! There will be two shows on Friday, February 10th at 10:30 PM and 8 PM. For more info, please visit www.somethinboutoscar.com or www.dusablemuseum.org. See you soon, Morris!

Blog 1Here is a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s show for lovers! For the 10th year in a row, the Queen of Burlesque Michelle L’Amour is bringing her BIG SEXY SHOW to the historic Music Box Blog 3 - Parker & SevilleTheatre at 3733 N. Southport on Saturday, February 11th for two shows – one at 8:30 PM and one at 11:30 PM. This show is an eclectic mix of burlesque and vaudeville and will feature The Chicago Starlets (voted the World’s Best Burlesque Group) and Toronto’s comedy duo Parker and Seville. You may know Michelle from her appearances on “America’s Got Talent” and on the WGN Blog 2 - The Chicago StarletsMorning News. Her new burlesque-infused fitness DVD, “Tease & Tone,” shows you why she has earned the ranking by 21st Century Burlesque as one of the “Top 5 Burlesque Stars in the World!” For more info, please contact Ajay Gosain at ajay@thepropelr.com or Leslie Smith at lsmith@tkhlaw.com.


 
Randolph Steet Market infoMark your calendars now for my favorite market in town – the Randolph Street Market – coming to Plumbers Hall at 1340 W. Washington on February 4th and 5th. Lovingly nicknamed the “Barneys of Vintage,” this market includes vintage treasures of every kind plus music, food and drinks. Designer Nate Berkus said, “I love this market…the quality is incredible!” There is free parking in big onsite lot plus free furniture delivery downtown. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. For more info, please visit www.randolphstreetmarket.com. (Sally Schwartz, I will see you soon!)
 
Watch 312 logoI love this city and all it has to offer! Next week, watch for coverage of Watch312.com’s Launch Party plus more exciting news from the Windy City! And, as always, thanks for checking in! (Please “Like” Watch312.com’s Facebook page, too!)
 
Teresa Potasiak and Ines ArocenaLove,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Teresa Potasiak and Ines photoP.S. Loved these pics from friends Ines Arocena and photographer Teresa Potasiak, who have just returned from a trip to Uruguay. Now this is the way to get through Chicago’s winters!

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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!

Blog 1 - Executive Producer Sharee Pemberton and Dennis FarinaWhat 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 Blog 2 - Regina Taylor awards James Earl Jones the Oscar Micheaux Awardsuch 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 Blog 3 - Mellody Hobson and George Lucaslittle 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 Blog 4 - LeAnita Ragland-Brooks and Sr. Producer Lisa Newmanopportunity 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 Blog 5 - CFCA’s President Dan Gire shows off Crystal Cove awardclose 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 Blog 6 - Cuba Gooding, Jr. and N’Digo’s Hermene HartmanHobson 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 Blog 7 - Emcees Roe Conn (Barb) and Richard Roeper (Sarah Cooley)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. Blog 8 - Sr. Producer Abe Thompson with wife AngelaJones. 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 Blog 9 - Muppet’s star, Jason Segeltogether), “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 Blog 10 - Nate Parker with DuSable’s Dr. Carol Adamshear 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 Blog 11 - “Red Tails” Anthony Hemingway, Nate Parker, Tyronne Stoudemire and Cuba Gooding, Jr.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 Blog 12 - Girls just wanna have fun!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 Blog 13 - Jason Segel receives his Comedia in Excellence Awardhasn’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 Blog 14 - Emcees Roe Conn and Richard Roeperprojection.” 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 Blog 15 - Terrence Howard and Janet DaviesPerformer (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 Blog 16 - Hermene Hartman, Dennis Farina and Dionne WilliamsBest 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 Blog 17 - 7’9” Kenny George, the tallest basketball player, with cute friendnight. 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 Blog 18 - The Nichols Sisters performingvia 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 Blog 19 - Sr. Producer Abe Thompson and RMHC’s Doug PorterShannon, a Red Orchid Theatre ensemble member (“Take Shelter”) for Best Actor; Michelle Williams (“My Week with Marilyn”) for Best Actress; Terrence Blog 20 - Urban Prep’s Tim King, Sarah Cooley and Richard RoeperMalick (“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 Blog 21going to Antonio Banderas, Anne Hathaway, George Clooney, Melissa McCarthy, “The Adventures of Tintin” and Alexander Payne. The Second City theater group Director Anthony Hemingwaywas 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 Jeanne and David Kaplan, critics and presentersextraordinaire, Lisa Newman. The after-party continued back at the Ritz where Dennis Farina and his longtime girlfriend Marianne Cahill were seen Greg and Arnette Faulknergreeting 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!

 
Blog 1 - Chef Jean Georges and Ian SchragerThe 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 Blog 2 - Chef Jean Georges, Ian Schrager, Chef Bradford Phillips and Chef Jean Johocelebrated 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 Blog 3 - Cheeky Chicks Joran Thompson and Erica Bethe Levin150 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 Blog 4 - Gilt City’s Nicole Banks (R) and friendpeople 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 Blog 5 - Marvin and Karen Herman and friendsLeigh, 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 Blog 6 - Sherren Leigh and Michael Kutzaproducer 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!)

 
Blog 1 - Host Amy Tara Koch and Frederic FekkaiAfter 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 Blog 2 - Frederic and friends at NoMIhairstylist-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 Blog 3 - Gale Gottlieb, Lynn McMahan and Toni Canadathe table to make sure we all got a chance to chat with Frederic. Lucky guests included Toni Canada, Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser, Blog 4 - Naomi Reese, Naomi Beckwith, Dusty Stemer, Rusty Reese and Amy Tara KochRusty 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!) 
 
Blog 1 - Pierre Lockett and his Bridge dancersWe 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 Blog 2 - Joffrey Bridge Program studentsAcademy’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.
 
Goca_flyer[1]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 Gordana Rasic and Omar VillabosDreams 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
 
P1020107We 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

Iphone photoP.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.

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