Tag Archives: School of the Art Institute of Chicago

May 29, 2019 · 7:08 am

SERVICE CLUB’S RECORD-BREAKING HAT LUNCHEON FIT FOR ROYALTY

Plus: Art Institute's Masterpiece19; Elegant nuptials with bespoke wine; Brookfield Zoo's WHIRL; Butterfly Ball; Untied Anti-Gala; ChiQ 2019; Dream Builders Luncheon; Women in History Spring Fundraiser; BizBash!; One Hope United gala; SAIC Fashion 2019; Bixbee Imagination Station; Jonny's Social Impact block party; Barbie Guncles wed!; Chicago Recipes; Peach and the Allstars of Project Runway; Mary's movin' on up; Pierre's Releve Soiree; Amazing video and so much MORE!

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Jamie Thorsen Annette Findling & Michelle Baker

SC Hat Luncheon co-chairs Jamie Thorsen, Annette Findling and Michelle Baker

If you had visited the Drake Hotel on the afternoon

A Best Hat Winner, Cheryl Coleman, wearing a custom creation by Marissa Collections' Diane Shagot.

of Friday, May 17^th, you might have thought the Queen herself was in residence. Royal Guards stood at attention and U.S. and British flags were posted in the lobby, as was a photo of Queen Elizabeth II, all to welcome a sell-out crowd of 300 guests to The Service Club of Chicago’s annual Spring Luncheon – THE hat luncheon in

Keynote speaker and Royal Gardener, Graham "Digger" Dillamore.

Chicago. Photogs snapped away as guests arrived for a beautiful cocktail reception in the Drake's

Mark Olley (L) and Greg Hyder with friends.

Palm Court. At noon, the flags were paraded through the room to the sounds of “God Save the Queen." Service Club President Tracey DiBuono welcomed everyone to the Gold Coast Ballroom and gave thanks to the event committee and co-chairs Michelle Baker, Annette Findling and Jamie Thorsen. A special tribute was given to Susan Gohl, celebrating 30 years as a

Serene Hebert, Avani Dhaval, Natalie Decancq and Maya Bara.

member of the Service Club. Susan received a royal escort to

Peg Lombardo, Eleni Bousis and Kathy Piccone.

the podium and gave thanks for her ability to participate in philanthropy and make so many good friends at the same time. As guests dined on a menu patterned after the one served to Princess Diana on her visit to Chicago, guest speaker Graham “Digger” Dillamore, the Garden & Estates Manager for

Glam Hatters

Historic Royal Palaces, took the stage and regaled the audience with tales of his work and interactions with the Queen Mother Elizabeth,

Sherry Lea Holson and Todd Kempton.

her corgis and Princess Margaret. The live auction featured a 4 -night stay in London, with a tour of historic sites given by Mr. Dillamore himself, as well as unique and rare photos of the Queen, Princess Diana and the White Garden that were commissioned by Princes Harry & William on the 20^th anniversary of their mother’s death. Best Hat Winners (that

SC president Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and a "Royal Guard"!

were judged during cocktail hour) were Cheryl Coleman, Brenda Tran- Keating and Karen Peters. The event set a new fundraising record, raising over $160,000 to support Philanthropic Grants for 2020. (This year, nearly $400,000 was awarded to 43 deserving nonprofits.) (For more info on this, one of the oldest philanthropic nonprofits in Chicago, click here!)

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Masterpiece 19 Gala - mark campbell productions-209

The Temptations wowed the crowd!

The Art Institute of Chicago celebrated its 10th anniversary

Co-chairs Nancy Santi and Stephanie Harris.

of the Modern Wing during its bi-annual gala, Masterpiece19, on May 4th. The spectacular event raised vital funds for the museum's operations and was co-chaired by Andrea and Jim Gordon, Stephanie and John Harris and Nancy and Scott Santi. Nearly 400 guests enjoyed delicious bites during a reception in the museum's Modern

Co-chairs Andi and Jim Gordon with Andrew J. McKenna, Michael and Claire O'Grady.

Wing, which included engaging installations and a special performance by the Chicago Children's Choir. Guests then

Masterpiece 19 Gala - mark campbell productions-32

Luigi and Jill Zingales.

proceeded across the street to a tent on the South Promenade of Millennium Park for dinner and after-party. Following dinner, guests danced the night away to a performance by music industry legends, The Temptations.

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Golden Triangle's Doug Van Tress (R) and friends.

The Golden Triangle celebrated its 30^th anniversary in grand style during an exciting event held at the store (330

Carrie Lannon and friend.

N. Clark) on May 16 highlighting the best of global design. In partnership with Jon Cotay Events, over 700 of Chicago’s who’s who attended the celebration. To celebrate this milestone, The Golden Triangle invited a very select group of Chicago artists and

John Lanzendorf and friend.

makers to exhibit their modern day masterpieces. They included work from Adam Siegel, Jacob Wener (of Modern Industry), Steven Haulenbeek, Sarah Raskey, Mark Yee, Andrew Ek, Laurel Feldman, David Winn, Addison Xu and Lucy Slivinski. Partygoers enjoyed entertainment by DJ Kimberlite, Fulcrum Point and up and coming artist Kaeyra. Creative refreshments included Thai appetizers by Star of Siam and a dessert bar with coconut cake and mango skewers. Guests also enjoyed an exclusive fashion presentation curated by Aldrin Del Carmen with models from MP Model Management to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. (Make-up and hair was provided by Mario Tricoci, led by Eric Demadara, with fashions provided by Omaima Couture and Rebecca Minkoff. Guests included Donna Mondi, John Lanzendorf, Cleveland Dean, Lonny White, Neil Zuleta, Albert and Suzanne Friedman, John and Elizabeth Cusack, Michael Kutza and Richard Wilson. (Photos by Vergara Nenriquez)

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BizBash Hall of Fame ceremony.

I was so honored/thrilled/over-the-moon happy to be

With Chuck, Dori Wilson, Arthur Samokhina, Jeffrey Foster, Chelsea Harvey, Mila Samokhina, Michael Kutza and Dionne Williams.

included as an inductee into the BizBash Hall of Fame at the Museum of Science & Industry on May 15. The event "paid tribute to industry icons who shaped today's experience landscape" and to an up-and-coming Rising Star who is making an impact in live events. Nicole Peck, BizBash executive VP, emceed the program that honored

With fellow honorees Karen Malone, Jack Luft and Lori Adlesick.

Barbara Lee Cohen (Productions USA) with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Impact Award winners were: Lori Adlesick (Choose Chicago); Jack Luft (Hall's Rentals); Karen

With Jesse Rodriguez III and Elda de la Rosa.

Malone (HIMSS) and Michael Nishi and Carey Pinkowski (Chicago Event Management) and yours truly. Morgan Bucciferro (Chicago Cubs) was honored as the Rising Star. It was a thrilling night with BizBash founder David Adler welcoming the crowd and participating in a Q & A with

Jerry Logaras Beth Kormanik of BizBasheditor in chief. and Jenny Berg.

Jerry Logares, BizBash's Beth Kormanik and Jenny Berg.

the recipients along with Beth Kormanik (BizBash editor-in-chief). Adler also acknowledged Sue Babin, VP of sales, as a driving force of the event. I'm still flying high on cloud nine and so grateful to my friends who attended: Mila and Arthur

Barbara Lee Cohen (Lifetime Achievement Award winner) with Jimmy Rittenberg (L) and friend.

Samokhina, Michael Kutza, Dionne Williams, Edla de la Rosa and Jesse Rodriquez III, Dori Wilson and Jeff Foster. We missed you Laurie Dimakos! BizBash is the leading global resource/platform for event organizers and industry professionals. (Special thanks to ByFashionaholic for my cool gold top and earrings! Love them!) (Photos by Mila Samokhina, of course!)

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Lucky in love–Laura Schwartz and Susan Santiago.

The impeccable white, vintage Rolls Royce parked

Michael and Isabel Mondavi with Laura and Susan.

outside was a giveaway as to what to expect for the elegant wedding of Laura Schwartz and Susan Santiago. Laura, a much loved Chicago fixture is an author, professional speaker, on-air TV contributor, former White House Director of Events (during the Clinton years)

Jean Greg Susan Ellefson Jim Smith and Alex Antoniou at revception

Jean Antoniou, Greg Hyder, Susan Ellefson, Jim Smith and Alex Antoniou.

and more. Susan, equally accomplished, is SVP at Hyatt Corp, and more. Their engagement was a surprise and blessing for both

Andrea and Dr. Steve Stryker and family.

with Susan popping the question in the snowy backyard of Laura's family home in Wisconsin. The ceremony at the Fourth Presbyterian Church brought together friends and family who witnessed the joy between these two soul mates. Susan's sister Julie Santiago served as her maid of honor with Andrea

Laura with her parents Dennis and Judith.

Schwartz Stryker serving as Laura's. Bridesmaids included Julienne Gohde, Jennifer King, Jodi Reeves and Jennifer Thonus, all dressed in rich shades of burgundy.

Sue (a 2-time ice hockey Olympic medalist), and Margaret Merz Mullen.

Groomsmen were Dr. Steve Stryker, Greg Hyder, Jonathan Bedi, Dcota Santiago, Bryan Bennett and JC Bak. The officiant, Shannon Kershner, had known both women and delivered a loving, heartfelt personal ceremony that had everyone reaching for hankies. Members of the Morning Choir performed "Simple Gifts" by Aaron Copland and "Jesu, Joy of All Desiring" by Bach, and others. Laura's off-the-shoulder gown was inspired by one she saw in a

Michael Mondavi unveiling Journeys at start of dinner

Michael Mondavi unveiling Journeys wine at start of dinner.

window during a trip with her family to Vienna (the bridal team at Macy's found it for her, of course!) Susan's was done in delicate beadwork, both had beautiful trains. The love in the church was palpable and the looks on their faces as

Long may they love!

they walked hand in hand down the aisle as newlyweds was one I hoped their photographer captured. Trolleys whisked guests back to the Park Hyatt where NoMI had been closed for this special occasion. Well known crooner John Vincent was singing Sinatra songs as

Our bridemen in showing off their bowtie socks from the local Tie Bar as we sourced as locally as possible for all things

Bridesmen wearing matching socks from the Tie Bar.

guests arrived and the hors d'oeurves, Veuve and cocktails began flowing. Winemaker Michael Mondavi gave me a sneak peek of what Susan and Laura had planned as a surprise for guests–a special, limited edition wine created by and for Laura and Susan in

And they lived happily ever after.

collaboration with Mondavi in Napa to present to guests. (He unveiled it during dinner.) They picked the name "Journeys" since it marked the beginning of their special life together. Each guest was gifted with a bottle! Sommelier Jillian Rily sabred a 2008 bottle of Veuve La Grand Dame to serve as well. It was a night we will never forget and one of the most loving weddings we've had the honor of witnessing. As the late Kup would say, "Long May They Love" and, in my own words, may they have a lifetime of endless happiness.

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Nick Caprio and Matt Jacobi tied the knot in Scottsdale!

More love in the air! Super cuties Matt Jacobi and Nick Caprio were married over Memorial Day weekend at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. The couple made international news in December when they created a custom “Same Sex Barbie Wedding Set” for their 8-year-old niece’s birthday. Jacobi and Caprio wanted to give their niece, something special for her birthday since she and her little sister, would be flower girls in the couple’s wedding. When the couple could not find a toy that was reflective of their wedding or special bond with their nieces, they created their own! The couple exchanged vows in front of 160 guests and toasted to all the LGBTQ freedom fighters and allies that helped make marriage equality the law of the land. The couple were the first same sex couple to get married at the resort and tasked event experts at Juliet Le Fleur, Glamour & Woods, and Southwest Teepee to surprise them on their wedding day. The two grooms left all the details up to the wedding vendors so they had no idea what to expect of their wedding décor until they walked down the aisle. I'd say they were pretty happy! Congrats with love, Matt and Nick! (Everlemon Events, photos by Leland Gebhardt Photography)

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Co-chair Romana Malinowski, chair Barbara Bradford and WB president Sasha Gerritson.

The Chicago Zoological Society’s (CZS) Women's Board and Board of Trustees hosted its 38^th annual black-tie gala on April 27, at Brookfield Zoo. The organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, which

Allison Elfman and board vice chair Betsy Bramsen.

attracted more than 600 corporate, civic and philanthropic leaders from throughout the Chicagoland area, raised more than $1.4 million! This year’s theme “Roaring Whirl 2019” celebrated the 100^th anniversary of the land donation by Edith Rockefeller McCormick to the Forest Preserves of Cook County for the express

Forest Preserves of Cook County General Superintendant Arnold Randall and Jennifer Randall.

purpose of creating a modern zoo. The evening began with a cocktail reception that featured up-close experiences and photo opportunities with many of the zoo’s animal ambassadors (my FAVORITE part!) They included a prehensile-tailed porcupine, tamandua (a small anteater), binturong, and a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo.

ComEd president Joe Dominguez and Amy Trojecki with Veronica Gomez and Jeff Bushofsky.

Calihan Catering (which we love) served a three-course dinner in the Grand Tent which was fabulously decorated in a 1920s theme by The Flower Firm. The evening also featured a paddle raise, raffle and live auction that featured an 18K gold Akoya pearl and diamond necklace donated by A. Marek Fine Jewelry; naming a southern hairy-nosed

Nancy and Mike Timmers.

wombat baby; attending an orangutan physical examination at Brookfield Zoo’s Animal Hospital; 60 bottles of wine with 92 points or higher rating from Wine Spectator; and a long weekend stay at Quail Lodge in Carmel, California. Dancing to the music of

Molly Keller and Elisa Templeton.

Maggie Speaks, one of Chicago’s most popular bands, followed dinner. The chair of the event was Barbara J. Bradford, a resident of North Barrington and a member of the Chicago Zoological Society’s Board of Trustees. Romana E. Malinowski, a resident of Hinsdale and member of the Women’s Board was the co-chair. Proceeds from Whirl support the animals at Brookfield Zoo, as well as the Society’s conservation, education, and research programs. (Photos by Jim Schulz)

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Dick and Peggy Notebaert.

The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s 21st annual Butterfly Ball drew over 650 guests on May 3, raising more than $2 million in

Nature Museum Pres/CEO Deb Lahey, Chuck and Diane Douglas.

support of the Nature Museum’s science education initiatives that impact thousands of Chicago students and teachers. “Our 21^st anniversary gala was met with an incredible outpouring of support for nature and science initiatives. “This

Tom and Cece Ricketts.

support leads to transformative programs for children, provides support for teachers, and helps us stand as a haven for science – inside the Museum and in every neighborhood of Chicago,” said Deborah Lahey, Nature

Colette and Tim Smithburg.

Museum president/CEO. During the cocktail hour guests explored the Nature Museum and experienced the ways the institution engages the community through education initiatives, conservation work, citizen science projects, and immersive exhibits. Highlights included meeting the charismatic Blanding’s turtle, hand-modeling with “big bugs,” and touring the new exhibit Thomas D. Mangelsen – A Life in the Wild. The

Matt and Holly Maloney with Annie and Greg Jones.

Butterfly Ball co-chairs were Lisa and John T. Murphy and Kate and Jim Murray. Anne Thompson served as emcee for the 6th year. The Nature Museum honored Holly and Matt Maloney with an Award for Leadership in Science and Education. Their personal philanthropy focuses around education, aligning with the Nature

Anne Thompson.

Museum’s goal to bring science teachings and resources to under-served schools throughout the city. The Maloneys share the Museum’s passion for education programs and bringing nature to life in our urban environment. Chuck Douglas, 18 year member of the board of trustees, was also honored for his support of the Museum with the Butterfly Award for Exemplary Leadership. A three-course dinner was provided by Calihan Catering and the event’s colorful, nature-inspired look and décor were provided by HMR Designs. Following dinner, guests danced to the music of the band Maggie Speaks.

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Precious Jacobs Ciere Boatright Caroline Robinson MD Britney Cleveland

Precious Jacobs, Ciere Boatright, Dr. Caroline Robinson and Britney Cleveland.

More than 600 supporters turned up at Moonlight Studios on April 26 for the UnTied Anti-Gala, a benefit for Chicago Scholars. This nonprofit supports Chicago’s academically ambitious, first-generation college

2019 Class of "35 Under 35" Making an Impact. Kudos to all!

students from under-resourced communities in their efforts to attend and complete college. Led by CEO and Obama Foundation Fellow, Dominique Jordan Turner, the event kicked-off by recognizing the "2019 Class of 35 under 35 Making an Impact." The sold out event raised over $155,000 while highlighting the importance of Chicago Scholars and

Dominique Jordan Turner, Katrina Jackson and Jesse Slovenec.

its mentorship program that is shaping future leaders and mentors of Chicago – such as those nominated in this year’s class of 35 under 35 – a list which included Chicago Scholars alumni Kevin Stonewall and Ciere

Candid Shot with VIP Guest Kevin Stonewall and Dominique Joradn Turner

VIP guest Kevin Stonewall and Dominique Jordan Turner.

Boatright. Other notable guests included Ben Head (political director of Schakowsky for Congress and a "35 Under 35" honoree; Sierra Wallace (Assistant State's Attorney and "35 Under 35" honoree; Katrina Jackson (Global Manager at Underwriters Laboratory and "35 Under 35" honoree; and Precious Jacobs, partner at Jenner & Block. Chicago Scholars is a one-of-a-kind, 7-year mentoring and leadership development program equipping many of Chicago’s brightest and most driven students from under-resourced communities with the tools and mindsets they need to realize their college-to-career dreams and become the city’s top leaders of tomorrow.

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Over 300 fashion-forward, vibrant, community-loving lesbians, bisexual women, transgender and gender nonconforming guests attended ChiQ 2019, an event hosted by Howard Brown Health to support women’s, transgender and gender nonconforming healthcare services. The May 4^th event raised over $93,000, which will support the Howard Brown Health services that include specialized HIV medical care, pharmacy services, birth control counseling, therapy and support groups and so many more. Guests enjoyed a night of dinner, dancing and games in celebration of the community and affirming healthcare for all.

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John W. Rogers Jr. CCCS CEO Dara Munson Honorary Chair Barbara Bowman

Dream Builder honoree John W. Rogers Jr, CCCS CEO Dara Munson and honorary chair Barbara Bowman.

The Standard Club and Chicago Child Care Society (CCCS) hosted its annual Dream Builders Luncheon on May 7 to celebrate 170 years of service. The event

Board President Paul Herring wife Kanna Herring and daughter Ellie Herring

Board pres Paul Herring, wife Kanna and daughter Ellie.

honored John W. Rogers Jr. (founder/chairman and CEO of Ariel Investments) with the 2019 Dream Builder Award. Aligning with the CCCS vision, Rogers was recognized for his work in youth development and education. I-NOMA (Illinois Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects) received the Community Partner Award for their student-led project transforming a space at the Hyde Park headquarters. The event

Brian Haynes, I-NOMA, accepts Community Partner Award from Dara Munson

raised a record-breaking $153,000 to support programs that open a world of positive choices and relationships for Chicago’s children, adolescents and families throughout the South Side and South Suburbs. Led by Dara Munson (CCCS CEO), the program featured a fireside chat with honoree, Rogers. The two discussed the importance of mentorship, and what can be done to ensure more youth are gaining access and

Krishna Lynch and CCCS Chief Program Officer Craig Lynch

opportunity as they rise through the education system and pursue careers in the financial industry and beyond. “John is a remarkable mentor and friend who lives his values. His commitment to the community will always be his greatest legacy,” said Arne Duncan (former CPS CEO/US Secretary of Education, Obama Administration/managing partner Chicago CRED) who offered a congratulatory video for John, his long-time

Lenora Koyton, Vernice Anthony, Dr. Sanji Barnes

friend. “Today’s job market is filled with financial services opportunities, yet many young people in our city don’t know what these jobs are,” says Rogers. “By introducing students to this industry’s vocabulary at a

CCCS Board of Directors Life Member Judy Block and Karen Thomas

young age, we’re laying the foundation for a future of possibilities. I like the idea of this next generation being financially sophisticated. It’s never too early to begin learning these ideas.” CCCS has served children, youth and families for 170 years, providing support to the whole family. In doing so, the organization helps to create pathways for success and bright futures for those it serves.

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Karmon Hearan

Girls 4 Science hosted its Women in History Spring Fundraiser on April 30 at 1871 in the Merchandise Mart. With 75 guests in attendance, the event raised more than $10,000 to support Girls 4 Science programs, including weekly Saturday Academies focused on science,

Tawana Quarles, London Tyler, Jasmine Tyler

technology, engineering and math (STEM). The event kicked off with a reception and student showcase featuring a Pet Cleaner Prototype by Jasmine Tyler, DNA of Fruits and Vegetables by Kennedi Carpenter, Garlic Through the Eyes of the Raman

Jackie Lomax, Ilene Gordon, Kari Steele, Patricia Natke, Suzzette Jaskowiak

Spectrosopy by Deche Lewis, and Lip Balm Chemistry Kit by Karmon Hearmon. Gayle Jones (director of Patient Access at Horizon Pharma), was honored as the Girls 4 Science 2019 Female STEM Professional of the Year. The award presentation was followed by a panel of notable women in STEM who shared leadership experiences and

Kendall Carpenter, London Tyler, Logan Lomax

accomplishments within their respective fields. Led by

Kelvin and Monique Carpenter

Ilene Gordon (former CEO of Ingredion), the panel included Suzzette Jaskowiak (divisional VP of Pharmacy, Healthcare and Customer Engagement Technology at Walgreens); Patricia Saldaña Natke (president and design principal of UrbanWorks Ltd.) and Kari Steele (president of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago.) (Elliot Powell Photos)

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Illinois Representative Lamont J. Robinson Jr. (5thDistrict) with One Hope United’s Chairwoman Theresa A. Dear and President andCEO Charles A. Montorio-Archer.

Ill. Rep. Lamont J. Robinson Jr. with One Hope United’s chair, Theresa A. Dear, and president/CEO Charles A. Montorio-Archer.

The 124-year old nonprofit, One Hope United, hosted its annual "Hope in Action: Why I Have Hope" gala attracting over 250 supporters on May 3rd to the Hilton Chicago. The event, emceed by Jon Hansen (WCIU-TV) helped drive opportunity and impact for children and families. A highlight of the night was the presentation

Hope In Action emcee Jon Hansen OneHope United Pres CEO Charles A. Montorio-Archer.

Emcee Jon Hansen with OHU's pres/CEO Charles A. Montorio-Archer.

of the Ermit Finch Impact Award to Nannie Crudup, a 97-year-old foster grand-parent at One Hope United's Bridgeport Child Development Center. For the past 26 years, she has been making a positive difference in the lives of the center's students and staff. Mario Bonds, a motivational speaker/ author/singer/songwriter and breakout star of NBC Universal’s The Glee Project delivered a powerful performance through his inspirational storytelling and musical talent. DJ Lady D had guests on the dance floor at One Hope United’s first Hope After Dark after-party. For this new event presented by One Hope United's Ambassador Board, doors opened at 10:00 pm for new supporters who didn’t/couldn't attend the gala but still wanted to support a great cause.

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The School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosted SAIC Fashion 2019 on May 3 at Venue Six10 with about 500 people in attendance. The show was a cutting-edge

Andrea Montoya design.

display of Fashion Core sophomore, junior and post-grad garments with a curated installation of "Body-Builder" fashion elective work in a one-day exhibition on the 1st, 2nd and 10th floors of the space at the Spertus Institute, one of Chicago's most architecturally significant buildings. For this year’s theme, Alchemy 2.0 Transforming Dystopia, students showed more than 260 looks! The SAIC commented about the show noticing that its students are showing more works with heavier political overtones.

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The Bixbee Imagination Station is coming to Chicago on

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Tom Kehoe of Kehoe Designs gives the Imagination Station a test run.

Sunday, June 15! This immersive, interactive experience for kids (and the kid in you) features an experiential pop up and retail shop. It features several Instagrammable backdrops with engaging activities that boost creativity and self-expression. And for each ticket purchased, Bixbee donates a % of the proceeds to fund access to education for children, from gifting backpacks and school supplies to education funds. Congrats to the Kehoe Designs and BlackOak Technical Productions teams for bringing this experience to life! It runs through mid-September! (Get tickets/more info here!)

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Join Jonny Immerman (founder Imerman Angels and Cloztalk) and reps from 100+ nonprofits on the first day of summer at CLOZTALK's Social Impact Block Party (and launch) on Friday, June 21 from 4 — 10 pm! All ages welcome, family-friendly, FREE, activities, music, cash bar and food by Haymarket Pub & Brewery! Meet and mingle with socially minded people, rain or shine! (Located near Box Shops by Related at 725 W Randolph St. at Halsted, directly east of Haymarket) Hope you can join us!

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The Chicago Help Initiative will host its annual "Chicago Recipes" dining experience at the Chicago Sports Museum on Thursday, June 6. The proceeds will support those in need by providing access to food, health services, shelter and employment. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

Say awwwww…..Join Pierre Lockett and his darling Forward Momentum Chicago: Dancing Towards the Future dancers as they present Releve Soiree 2019! This special evening will include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and, of course, a performance by the students with proceeds supporting summer dance camp programming! The event will be held at the Joffrey Tower on Tuesday, June 11. For tickets/more info, please click here!)

Join the much loved designer Peach Carr and other Project Runway stars Korto Momolu, Joshua J Christensen, Jonathan Kayne and Christopher Palu for the new event, "Allstars of Project Runway," a unique fashion show/fundraiser benefiting JourneyCare on Sat., June 29 at Theater On The Lake ! For tickets, more info, click here!

Huge congrats are in order for everybody's favorite, Mary Boyle,

WGN's rock star, Mary Boyle.

producer of WGN's Steve Cochran Show, who just got a BIG promotion to WGN Radio's Director of News and Operations! So deserving Mary! As always, Robert Feder had the breaking news! Read it here!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! I had fun

Old friends are the best friends!

celebrating another year around the sun. Thanks to all of my friends who sent me BD wishes! I'm grateful, thankful and looking forward to more fun with all of you!!!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! Her look at the end says it all.

CHICAGO’S GREAT “GREAT GATSBY” PARTIES!

…PLUS SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE’S “THE WALK” (NEW WATCH312 VIDEO!); PLAYBOY’S PLAYMATE OF THE YEAR PARTY (VIDEO!); FLEUROTICA 2013 (VIDEO!); LYNNE TAKES NEW YORK; ZOO BALL IS “WILD AT HEART”; JOFFREY AUXILIARY BOARD’S MASQUERADE BALL; A SPECIAL MAY BIRTHDAY PARTY; ELLEN BITCHES ABOUT FITCH AND SO MUCH MORE!

Maxim’s was the place to be on May 6th when Warner Brothers, Margaret O’Connor (MarCon Communications), Dr. Michael O’Meara and ReachMail hosted one of the hottest Gatsby parties in town. With Gatsby fever raging for months, this
invitation was coveted among the see-and-be-seen crowd and besides being a blockbuster film, Margaret had another reason for producing this event: Being a fellow Aussie like director Baz Luhrmann, she was keen to present this movie since most of the filming takes place in her native
Australia! The invitation requested guests dress in Gatsby attire with the added enticement of prizes for the most Gatsby-esque. (And it didn’t take much to encourage attendees to channel their best “Daisy” and “Jay” attire either!) Before the start of the film, Deputy Consul General of Australia in Chicago Lorenzo Strano
said he hoped the beautiful scenery would entice everyone to visit Australia. Next, Bill Zwecker and Chaz Ebert introduced the film. Chaz said “The Great Gatsby” was a favorite film and book of her late husband Roger’s and he had been eagerly awaiting the film and he
was “so jazzed” to see Baz Luhrmann’s version. She added that the last page of the book had been recited at their wedding. Bill said that he, too, was looking forward to Baz’s interpretation and that he had run into Mia Farrow (who played the part of
Daisy Buchanan in the 1974 version) in Connecticut a couple weeks earlier. After the film, guests headed over to Maxim’s, located in Chicago’s Gold Coast and once the hot spot for celebrities and the posh set back in its heyday. With its
striking plush red velvet and mahogany décor, Maxim’s was the perfect backdrop for this lavish Gatsby-themed party. At the entrance, under the canopied walkway, a blue 1931 Ford Phaeton replica, belonging to Mamie Walton and given to her at Maxim’s on her 50th birthday, was
parked alongside a lemon yellow 1947 Lincoln convertible (somewhat reminiscent of Jay Gatsby’s yellow Rolls Royce). Having their photos taken with the cars were men of style Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy, Paul Iacono and William Holdeman, all wearing pastel suits and looking every bit the part of a 1920’s GQ fashion spread. Models dressed in ’20s attire draped themselves languorously beside the
classic cars in a fashion installation created by Kate Johnson Artistry. Others channeling Gatsby style included Mamie Walton, Margey Teller, Dr. Kathleen Albrecht, Laurie Davis, Jan Melk, Joan Colmar, Hazel Barr and couples John
Donohue & Julianne Glatz, Katie and Jason Mclenaghan, Kevin & Janine Larson and Stanley Paul & niece Joanie Legittino. Inside, music from the Stanley Paul 1920’s Theatre Collection mixed in with Jay-Z’s film soundtrack played while Gatsby-style attired guests table-hopped and chatted about Luhrmann’s dazzling 3-D
epic which captured the glamour, opulence and indulgent lifestyle of the era. Prosecco, served in keepsake flutes embossed with the Gatsby logo, flowed while servers wearing black flapper fringed dresses and sequined headpieces circulated with St. Claire vodka cocktails and
hors d’oeuvres. Models dressed in the theme of the night took pictures with guests throughout the evening and attendees took home gift bags filled with items from the sponsors that included everything from Warner Brothers’ water bottles and martini shakers
to iPad and iPhone covers and screen wipes. Prizes for “Best Gatsby Attire” included Gatsby beach bags, the book, soundtrack and more. For the film’s official opening at the Cannes Film Festival on
May 15th, there was a glittering red carpet premier. Director Luhrmann found it only fitting to premier the film first in Cannes since F. Scott Fitzgerald’s first draft of “The Great Gatsby” was completed on the French Riviera. (An extravagant
Australian premier is set for May 22nd.) Others guests seen in the crowd included Jacqui O’Neil, Dr. Michael O’Meara, Chicago Bear Henry Melton, former Bear James “Big Cat” Williams, Greg & Lily Gulik, Mary Sleger & John Murphy, Steve Traxler, Paul Iacono, Jesus Salgueiro, Sean Eshaghy, JP
Anderson, Diane Primo, Kelli Zink, Melissa & Brian Babcock, Toni Canada, Johanna Cook, Bunky Cushing, Rachel DeMarte, Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy, Susanna Negovan, Nina Mariano, Andrea Schwartz, Sherrill Bodine, Julie Darling, Amy Wimer, Debi Lily, Sheryl Dyer, Deborah Brown (soon to be
married!), Mary Ann Rose & Heinz Kern, Dr. Joaquin Brieva & Jennifer Sutton, Joey Majumdar, Andrea and Dr. Mimis Cohen, Michael Judge, Mark Roscoe and Sheila Dorman. Maxim’s backstory: This legendary hotspot opened in 1963 and quickly became the gathering spot for celebrities and Chicago’s elite. The striking décor was an exact replica of the famous
Parisian restaurant and throughout the years Maxim’s has been used in other films – there is an extended sequence in Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” and Owen Wilson and Marion Cotillard’s characters travel back in time to the Belle Époque and have dinner together at Maxim’s in Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris.” (Photos by Jon Recana and Alex Riemann.)

Tiffany & Co. jewels sparkled at the recent Chicago screening of “The Great Gatsby” when they rolled out the red carpet on May 15th to host an exclusive screening at the Gene Siskel Film Center.
More than 100 by-invite-only guests attended the 1920’s Jazz Age-themed cocktail party and movie premier with Tiffany designs taking center stage as models showcased pieces that appear in the film. Many of
the jewels are from Tiffany & Co.’s famed 2013 Blue Book Collection. Featured statement pieces from the Collection included The Savoy, a diamond and
freshwater cultured pearl headpiece with detachable brooch and a brilliant necklace featuring a 49.59 carat emerald-cut aquamarine. A jazz quartet set the stage for the event while guests sipped signature cocktails, including “The Daisy” and “Red Berry Mint Julep.” Passed hors d’oeuvres
included griddled buckwheat blinis with American sturgeon caviar presented by Blue Plate Catering. As the lights dimmed, guests were handed boxes of truffle salted and caramel drizzled popcorn to enjoy while they watched the fabulous show! Congrats to Tiffany’s for making a wonderful movie even more visually delightful with your awesome bling! 🙂 (Photos by Mila Samokhina…see more pics here!)

It was a night filled with fashion…but not the kind you are used to seeing on a runway: No my friend, this was the 79th annual School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s (SAIC) “The Walk,”
arguably the most creative and innovative fashion show of its kind in the country! More than 90 design students from SAIC filled the 90-foot runway with the most awe-inspiring, futuristic designs I’ve ever seen. Everything from clear plastic blazers to headgear resembling something Princess Leia would wear, it was a head-spinning evening for sure in
Millennium Park on May 3rd! The Legend of Fashion honor went to sisters Laura and Kate Mulleavy, award-
winning designers/creators of the Rodarte line which they founded in 2005. Their beautiful fashions are worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Kiera Knightly, Cate Blanchett, Natalie Portman, Kirsten Dunst, Chloe Sevigny, Tilda Swinton, Dakota Fanning,
Scarlett Johansson and Reese Witherspoon to name a few and The New Yorker calls the sisters “the most celebrated American designers working today.” Philanthropist Melissa Sage Fadim was honored with the first ever
Heart of Fashion award. Even though the runway fashions were to-die-for, the 500+ attendees could’ve taken a turn on their own runways! I always love this event because the fashions are usually as innovative on the guests as they are on the models!
This year’s stand-outs included Ellen Sandor (who looked chic wearing a student-designed cape), Azeeza Kahn (who looks great in anything all the time), Laura Kofoid (whose outfit was colorfully creative), Quintin Primo III (who was wearing a Mick Jagger-inspired jacket) and Tommy Walton (a “Check, Please!” host contender who
always makes a fashion statement). Other notables included Creatures of the Wind’s Shane Gabier, Chris Peters and Michael Walls, Todd and Sylvie Ricketts, Ikram and Josh Goldman, Nina Ricci artistic director Peter Copping,
AJ Johnson, Kim and David DeJesus, Elle magazine’s Anne Slowey, Paper magazine’s editorial director Mickey Boardman, designer Maria Pinto, Ebony’s editor-in-chief Amy Dubois Barnett, and Bill Kurtis and Donna
LaPietra. The evening raised $400,000 for SAIC – great to see the future of fashion is alive and well in Chicago with the students of SAIC! (To see ALL pics by Sara Condo and Chasitie Neal, please click here!)

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Congrats to 25-year-old Raquel Pomplun for winning the Playboy Playmate of the Year title as the first Mexican-American centerfold! Fellow Playmate Dianne Chandler attended this year’s PMOY party at
the Mansion in LA on May 16th and shared the story with me: For many of the luncheon guests, the day began with a trolley ride from UCLA’s parking lot. This is usually the case with Hef’s parties since those fine folks in Holmby Hills frown
on having cars parked on their multi-million dollar manicured lawns. Dianne says she was helped from the trolley by an exceptionally handsome Latino man whose muscles sent her into a temporary swoon. The luncheon was
held on the front lawn under a lavishly decorated tent in shades of Playmate pink and white. Chandeliers were twinkling and the day was a typical gorgeous, sunny California dream. One of the drinks offered was a non-alcoholic cucumber/water concoction (How I miss the old days…I
don’t recall any non-alcoholic drinks even offered in the ‘70s!) Dianne insists it was “delightfully refreshing” so I’ll have to take her word on this. Cooper Hefner spoke first and introduced his dad, who was dapper in a white
suit and seated with his lovely new wife Crystal Harris. (Hef recently gifted Crystal with a $4-million home on Sunset Strip.) He introduced Raquel, noting that she was chosen by the magazine’s readers, editors, photographers and
the PR department of Playboy. He presented her with a check for $100K and a year’s lease on a red Jaguar F-Style convertible. (It’s good to be PMOY these days: The checks have increased tenfold since the
days when I was a PM!) Raquel, a biochemistry major and a classically trained ballerina, had a 103-degree temperature when she shot her pics. If this layout was Raquel on a “bad day,” I can’t imagine what her photos would’ve
looked like had she been feeling well! Married at age 22 to Alejandro Pomplun, she submitted her photos via Playboy’s website with her husband’s blessing. She said posing nude “made me more confident and less obsessive about little things. I learned to appreciate my body a
little bit more. Not a little bit more. I appreciate it, period.” At the end of the day, a group photo photo was arranged by handsome and beloved Playmate promotions director, James Gonis. There were Playmates in attendance from all generations and Dianne was thrilled that Hef
remembered her from her centerfold days. (They were both alums of the University of Illinois.) All past Playmates are invited to Hef’s parties and it’s always a thrill to connect with old friends. Dianne was one of
the few Playmates who was also a Playboy Bunny: A hometown girl from Berwyn who now lives in Atlanta, she was September 1966 Playmate. Her gatefold was shot by the legendary lensman Pompeo Posar (who also shot Patti McGuire’s beautiful layouts).
Congrats to Raquel and I’m not surprised about Hef's memory: He might be growing older but he always remembers the ladies who brought him to the party! The wonderful video below was created by fellow Playmate Miss May 2010 Kassie Logsdon, who captured the afternoon perfectly!

If you’re in New York City on July 2nd, don’t miss the Big Apple debut of Chicago’s very own Diva Lynne Jordan! This soulful chanteuse will bring her Nina Simone show to City Winery on July 2nd. Located deep in the heart of SoHo, this gorgeous 300-seat venue is just the place for our girl to go BIG! Please share the news with your friends and buy your tickets now!! ($15 Music Only or upgrade to the five wine pairing, $30 admission)

The Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo recently held a Preview Party at Paul Stuart to kick-off this year’s festivities for Zoo Ball 2013: Wild at Heart. The cocktail party was hosted by dapper Paul Kelly (regional manager of Paul Stuart) at the chic Paul Stuart Oak Street location. Guests of honor included Zoo Ball co-chairs Charlotte Monhart, Vasiliki Weiden and Jennifer Caruso and
Women’s Board president Peggy Swift White. Mark Walter (CEO of Guggenheim Partners and presenting sponsor of Zoo Ball 2013) and his wife Kimbra were also in attendance alongside Lincoln Park Zoo’s president & CEO Kevin Bell. Guests enjoyed small bites courtesy
of Boutique Bites paired with Maker’s Mark cocktails and Goose Island craft beer while perusing Paul Stuart’s expansive inventory and taking in the musical styling of jazz artist Kyle Asche. The buttoned-up preview party at Paul Stuart is just a little taste of what to come at Zoo Ball 2013’s annual affair on July 12th so mark your calendars now! (For tickets and more info, please visit www.lpzooball.org.)

Fleurotica 2013 will be presented at the Museum of Contemporary Art on June 12th. Co-chaired by Deirdre Koldyke, Shauna Montgomery and Whitney Lasky this flower-filled fashion show will also include a champagne reception with small bites. The show is a unique haute couture fashion extravaganza with all of the runway designs created from a variety of flowers and greenery. (To see highlights from last year’s show, please see my Watch312 video below.) A portion of proceeds will benefit Garfield Park Conservatory’s educational programs. (For tickets – beginning at $250 – please click here!)

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The Joffrey Ballet’s Auxiliary Board is hosting an unforgettable night filled with mystery and intrigue at its inaugural Joffrey Blue Masquerade Ball on June14th. The event will be located at the Joffrey Tower at 10 E. Randolph from 8 p.m. until midnight. Partygoers are encouraged to wear their favorite masks and will be treated to complimentary cocktails, delicious bites from Chicago’s top restaurants, an exciting raffle and the hot sounds of DJ Madrid! I hope you’ll join me for this exciting night benefitting The Joffrey Ballet co-chaired by John Walcher, Camille Britton and Terrence Chapell. To purchase tickets or for more info, please visit www.joffrey.org/blue. (Individual tickets are $85.)

Thanks to the Palmer House Hilton for including me as a member of its “Iron Chef” competition on May 7th. I partnered with PH Catering Director David Brandt for an event that put me clearly out of my
comfort zone! Executive Chef Stephen Henry conducted the competition between the four teams. A long table was laid out with every kind of kitchen goody imaginable and each team had a few seconds to grab whatever ingredients they thought
they would need to add to the “secret ingredient,” which turned out to be ground beef. My team quickly whipped up delicious blue cheese mini-burgers sautéed with mushrooms and onions. In the end
(and to our surprise), the team of judges selected our team as the winners! I love this hotel and it was thrilling to take a peek behind the scenes into its gorgeous, massive kitchen area and sample its always-delicious cuisine!!
Also, don’t miss longtime Palmer House PR director Ken Price’s exciting historical presentations about this legendary hotel: He knows everything there is to know about the PH and shares it with guests in thrilling detail! (For more info about the Palmer House and Ken’s lectures, please click here!)

And last but not least, a big Happy Birthday shout-out to glam girlfriends Lynn McMahan, Kristina McGrath and Korinna Isselhardt! I loved feting these beautiful-
inside-and-out friends at one of our fav restaurants: RL. Happy guests included Nina Mariano, Michaela Parrillo, Jan Flanagan, Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, Tracy Scurto and Patty Nalepa. Happy, happy birthday lovely ladies! (View more pics here!)

That’s it for this week! So happy the weather is finally cooperating for all of our outdoor activities! Until next time, have fun, use sunscreen and happy grilling!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I loved this video from the “Ellen Degeneres Show” about the Abercrombie & Fitch controversy. Hope it makes you smile, too!

URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL” GALA SPOTLIGHTS ITS POETS AND DANCERS

…PLUS SWAROVSKI PRESENTS “THE WALK,” STYLE NETWORK’S “CHICAGOLICIOUS,” THE DINNER PARTY, BOYS & GIRL’S CLUBS’ YOUTH OF THE YEAR, HEF'S BD, 300 FEET OF JOFFREY DANCER FABRICE CALMELS (NOT ENOUGH!), THE RED DRESS PARTY, A SMALL-DOG-ONLY PARTY AND MORE!

Urban Gateways’ artists were the highlights of the evening for its annual Art for All Gala held at Venue One. Two hundred fifty guests attended this benefit to introduce the arts into the lives of children in Chicago. Co-chair Eric McKissack said, “Cheryl [McKissack] and I were very pleased to co-chair this event with Nick and Susan Pritzker. Urban Gateways is near and dear to all of us. The work of UG as a pioneer and leader in arts education helps to develop the creative potential of more than 100,000 young people a year in Chicago.” The night began with a cocktail reception and silent auction that featured the artwork of many talented UG artists. There were original works by Karolina Gnatowski, Jeff Maldonado and Kate Walsh. James Jankowiak donated an abstract acrylic on canvas while Nicole Beck created a steel maquette of one of her public sculptures at Dubuque’s Grand River Center. (Some other auction items included an “instant memory wine cellar” with personal notes affixed to each bottle that sold for $4,500.) After the guests had perused the auction offerings, emcee and president and CEO of the Better Government Association Andy Shaw took to the stage and stated, “Urban Gateways provides art experiences that the public schools can’t offer. In a perfect world, this would all be done there. They’re not doing what must be done. They’re not stepping up.” Andy is not afraid to speak his mind and always tells it like it is – so refreshing! And then the highlight of the evening: the live performances by Urban Gateways touring artists! First up was Elements Contemporary Ballet, founded in 2005 by artistic director Mike Gosney. These elegant dancers combined the beauty of classical technique with the intensity of innovative contemporary dance. Young Chicago Authors’ Louder Than a Bomb poets held the audience in the palm of their hands as they recited their views of the world. Malcolm Lundy’s poem, “Letter to My Unborn Daughter,” was a touching and cautionary tale about what he wants his future daughter to know about life and men especially. “You are preordained to despise your origins and me.” When speaking of future suitors, he said they “inhale virginities and exhale excuses.” He ended the poem with “my princess, never lose your fairytale endings. I pinky promise to be a great father.” Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. A female poet with the single name of George delivered a powerful poem called “My Father’s Promises.” Lamar Jordan’s “Be Step” poem spoke about the joys of this dance form calling it “the choreography of kings.” If you’re not familiar with Louder Than a Bomb, Jon Siskel created a fantastic film by the same name that I highly recommend. The premise surrounds the competition. Every year, more than 600 teenagers from 60-plus Chicago area schools gather for the world’s largest youth poetry slam, a competition known as Louder Than a Bomb. Founded in 2001, Louder Than a Bomb is the only event of its kind in the country – a youth poetry slam built around teams. Rather than emphasize individual poets and performances, its structure demands that kids work collaboratively with their peers – presenting, critiquing and rewriting their pieces. To succeed, teams have to create an environment of mutual trust and support. For many kids, being a part of such an environment in an academic context is life-changing. The movie is spellbinding just like these young poets were on this night. The next act, a nationally recognized dance crew founded by UG teaching artist Leida “Lady Sol” Villegas, brought the crowd to its feet. FootworKINGz performed a high-energy dance number that defied gravity. They have appeared on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” and MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew.” You really have to see them to believe it. Guests seen mixing and mingling included Linda Johnson Rice, Abe and Angela Thompson, Valerie and Tyronne Stoudemire, Theaster Gates, Dawoud Bey, Stephanie and Gary Cole, Michelle Askew, Tarrah Cooper, Kay and Jim Mabie, Ruth Horwich and Judith Venturino. Urban Gateways is one of the largest and most comprehensive arts education organizations in the country and a recipient of the White House “Medal of Arts.” For more than 50 years, UG has brought the arts into the lives of millions of children in Chicago. They provide high-quality, customized programming before, during and after school to more than 80,000 Chicago-area youth each year in the areas of literary, media, performing and visual arts. For more info, please visit www.urbangateways.org. (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins.)

Swarovski recently hosted a cocktail reception at its Michigan Avenue flagship boutique to view the unique window installation created by grad students of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago mentored by Nick Cave, professor and chair of SAIC's fashion design department. Swarovski donated the window space and jewelry for the installation as part of its Presenting Sponsorship for Fashion 2012 and The Walk 2012, which will be held on Thursday, April 19th. The collaborative design was created by KC Winter, Kristina Sparks, Joe Leamanczyk, Justin LeBlanc and Anna Kim and inspired by Swarovski's spring jewelry collection. One hundred thirty guests attended this reception including Chicago Street Style’s Amy Creyer, Emma Arnold, Kelly Zink, Amanda Wolfson, Erica Strama, Ellen Sandor and Shirley and SAIC President Walter Massey. At The Walk 2012, the presentation of the SAIC Legend of Fashion Award will be presented to designer Cynthia Rowley and her husband, Bill Powers, by SAIC adjunct faculty member/critic Jerry Saltz. Rowley said, “As an alumna of SAIC, this award has a very special meaning to me and Bill. We both believe that a marriage between fashion and art is something to strive for in the 21st century, and we hope that future fashion and design students continue to draw inspiration from both the runway and the gallery.” The 78th annual fashion show will feature more than 300 original garments in a tented venue in Millennium Park. Seniors in the SAIC’s fashion design department will create complete collections of five garments; juniors will show three and each sophomore will present one avant-garde look in muslin. The show will be presented three times throughout the day before a final evening presentation with more than 70 Factor Runway models strutting down an 80-foot runway inside a 15,000-foot tent. The 9 a.m. show is a general admission dress rehearsal and tickets are $40, the noon and 3 p.m. shows are also general admission seating with tickets priced at $75 and the main event is $500 and includes a cocktail reception and elegant post-show dinner on the rooftop terrace of the Harris Theater. For more info, please call 312.499.4190 or visit www.said.edu/fashionshow. (To view ALL event pics by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click HERE!)

The dynamic cast from the local reality show, “Chicagolicious,” is still hard at work filming segments around town. Their latest location was at the River West hotspot Sepia located at 123 N. Jefferson. Stylists at AJ Johnson’s Salon, located at 684 W. Randolph, are starring in this upcoming “Jerseylicious” spinoff and just finished another segment at Scoop NYC where they offered free hair and makeup to the public. This drama will showcase the salon’s hairstylists, makeup artists, salon manager and marketing director and their crazy antics at this close-knit salon that caters to a high-profile clientele. (Jennifer Hudson, Iman and Angela Bassett have all been AJ-ized.) Cast members include hair stylists Valincia Saulsberry, Howard Godfrey and MaCray Huff, salon manager Niki Robinson, makeup artists Katrell Mendenhall and Austin Maxfield and marketing director Q Lacey. Even AJ’s son, Ari, appears in some segments along with Julie Darling, Liza Brooks and Jenny Sepulveda. Another segment has been filmed at the Stan Mansion but I can’t tell you anymore (we all signed confidentiality agreements) but suffice it to say, I have some great pics to share by Helena Rafeyan! I wish these lovable locals all the best and hope their hard work pays off! Stay tuned and watch for “Chicagolicious,” premiering in June on the Style Network. (To view ALL pics from this fun event, please click HERE!)

Another local production created by Fear No ART’s Elysabeth Alfano is getting rave reviews with her new online show called “The Dinner Party.” This live show is filmed with a five-camera feed at the Mayne Stage, located at1330 W. Morse, before a studio audience on the last Monday of every month. Elysabeth invites three to four creatives (artists, inventors, entrepreneurs, etc.) to a dinner created by a guest chef and over food, wine and a few impromptu performances, the conversat
ions flow. Viewers and audience members (who share in the food tastings) can tweet questions and win prizes if their tweets are picked. On Monday, April 30th, Chef Paul Kahan, “Saturday Night Live” alum Nora Dunn, former “Project Runway” contestant and “All Stars” hopeful Peach Carr and Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Lane Alexander will meet at “The Dinner Party.” The evening will also include a performance by the dance troupe BAM, illustrations by artist Rosemary Fanti and set paintings by Michael O’Briant. The evening ends with an open cocktail party with artists and attending audience members. For more info, please visit Fear No ART's website and to see blues legend Billy Branch singing “Hoochie Coochie Man” on a recent segment, click here! The show was recently chosen as one of the top five in the Tribune’s feature article about the best variety-type shows in the city – WOWZA! Good luck, Elysabeth: You are one of the hardest working women in showbiz and I know your new show will be a huge success!

I just love the wonderful work that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago do for our kids! They recently honored 17-year-old Nora Martinez, a General Robert E. Wood club member, as its 2012 Youth of the Year at an awards ceremony at Navy Pier. Martinez lovingly refers to her club located in South Lawndale as “My Little World,” the place that gave her support to achieve her goals in academics and athletics and inspired her to give back to her community. During the speech competition, 10 semi-finalists representing clubs throughout Chicago, shared their challenges, hopes and heartfelt experiences as BGCC members. Besides Nora, members at the event included Michel Lopez, Odalys Garcia, Lucy Onoh, Dajanee Tate, Jeremy O’Brian, Jose Gonzalez, Vincent Poole-Oliphant, Darius Smallwood, Jonathan Pittman, Briana Burtley and Brittany Barraza. Honorary Chairman of the Corporate Board of Directors Mayor Rahm Emanuel said, “Nothing is more important than our investment in our children and striving to put every one of them on a path to success.” Martinez is currently the vice president of the Keystone Club and volunteers for multiple service events in her community. Martinez has even hosted service events at her club and brought together a group of her friends to raise money for Children’s Memorial Hospital. BGCC provides services through 16 locations for 10,000 children each year. Congrats, Nora!! (For more info, please visit www.bgcc.org.)

Playboy’s Hugh Hefner had a very special 86th birthday party recently, surrounded by admirers at his Holmby Hills mansion for the screening of his favorite film, “Casablanca.” They dressed in costume for the occasion, and after the screening, shared champagne and caviar by candlelight in the dining room that had been converted into Rick’s Café. Hef was presented with a special birthday cake which had his face superimposed on Humphrey Bogart’s body from the original film poster. Happy birthday Hef and I wish you many more happy occasions as “time goes by.”

Pet lovers should NOT miss this party to benefit Annie’s Little Angels Small Breed Dog and Cat Rescue on Sunday, May 6th, at Chicago Party Animals, located at 1133 W. Fulton Market from 1 to 4 p.m. Hosted by Chicago’s newest canine clothing and accessory line, Perry Dog, this event will be the first in a series of benefits called “Perry Dog Presents Perry to the Rescue Party.” This party will cater to tiny canines (less than 30 lbs.) with massages by Canine Massage Chicago, nail trims by Pet Care Plus and lots of treats. Julia Morel, who was inspired by her rescue Chihuahua Perry, co-founded Perry Dog in 2010. Her mission is to raise money for animal welfare rescue groups with the first benefitting Annie’s Little Angels. Tickets are $10 per dog and admission for humans is FREE! For tickets and more info, please visit www.perrydogchicago.com.

Chicago’s second annual “Red Dress Party” will be held at the Joffrey Ballet Studios, located at10 E. Randolph, on Saturday, April 21st, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Beverly McClellan of “The Voice” has been confirmed to perform with GMA’s weekend (and former NBC Chicago) meteorologist Ginger Zee serving as emcee. The evening will begin with a decadent VIP red carpet reception hosted by Chicago’s own Miss Lucy Foozie at 8 p.m. followed by Beverly’s inspirational performance at 10:30 p.m. The only rule for the evening is that all guests must wear red. The Red Dress Party is dedicated to both raising awareness for the HIV/AIDS movement and funds for organizations that provide vital community services. I was proud to co-host this event last year with NBC’s Marcus Riley and it is a must-attend, fun-filled party for a great cause! Chair Kyler Ashton Powell and his dynamic committee are working hard to make this event something very memorable and I know it will be! Tickets begin at $100 and can be purchased by visiting www.chicagoreddressparty.org. To see the fun from last year’s event on Watch312.com, see below!

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Watch for an exciting art installation coming the first week of May to the riverfront beneath the Trump Tower! Anyone who is a fan (and who isn’t?!), of the dashing 6’6” Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels will love this! Renowned Joffrey photographer Herbert Migdoll has created a 300-foot long and 15-foot high photo of Fabrice swimming!!!! I can’t wait to see this and wish it could be permanent but sadly, it will only be up through July 7th. I can’t wait to ogle, I mean see, this fantastic artwork of much-loved Fabrice! Congrats to Herb and The Joffrey Ballet for yet another “first” for Chicago! (THIS HAS JUST BEEN NIXED BY TRUMP…DETAILS TO FOLLOW…Je suis desolee!)

The countdown to the grand opening of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House has begun! Only 69 more days until the House at 211 E. Grand Ave. opens its doors on June 26th and I’m joining in to help! Each day on their website, www.RonaldHouseChicago.org, and on their Facebook and Twitter they’re featuring a new Countdown Photo of a “famous face or place” (their words, not mine) in Chicago and today, they have an adorable puppy! (I was proud to be #70 yesterday). They’re encouraging the city to join in on the fun, by downloading your own number card here, and posting your photos to their Facebook page – hundreds have already posted their pics! And if you have a cute pet pic, please post that! Don’t forget to tweet about it using the hashtag #86DayCountdown! For more info, please click here!

I am on sensory overload thinking about all of these great happenings in the greatest city in America! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing about it! Have a great week and I will see you here next time, I hope! (And don't forget to sign up for Watch312's VIP Club here and see the new video here! Lots of gift giveaways to come plus some of my favorite spots around town!)

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And now, something cute for all of you cat lovers out there!

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June 22, 2010 · 12:37 pm

ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. RECEIVES GENE SISKEL RENAISSANCE AWARD

When I was asked to be a part of the Gala Committee for this year’s Gene Siskel Film Center tribute, I was beyond honored but when I found out it would be “An Evening with Robert Downey, Jr.” I lost my mind! I have loved and admired RDJ for as long as I can remember as well as the rest of his zillions of fans. We all felt badly for his past addictions and are now so thrilled he has overcome them in such an amazing way. His wife Susan is to be thanked as well as his desire to begin anew. Robert was born in NY into an acting family: His father, Robert Downey, Sr., is a well known actor, writer, producer, cinematographer and director and his mother, Elsie, is also an actress. He appeared in many of his father’s earlier films. RDJ married local Schaumburg girl, Susan Levin, in August 2005. They had met in 2003 on the set of “Gothika” but Susan was leery of his past history; nonetheless, their relationship continued after the film and he proposed on the eve of her 30th birthday and Billy Joel performed at their wedding in upstate NY. RDJ’s filmography boasts dozens of critically-acclaimed films, including such recent hits as “Sherlock Holmes,” “Iron Man,” “Iron Man 2,” “The Soloist,” “Charlie Bartlett,” “Zodiac,” “A Scanner Darkly,” “Fur” and “Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang.” He has worked with a virtual who’s who of Hollywood’s biggest talents including directors Robert Altman (who told him, “Whatever you do tonight, don’t memorize your lines.”), Richard Attenborough (who got RDJ’s competitive juices flowing for the movie “Chaplin” by holding up a pic of Tom Cruise and saying, “Isn’t this an uncanny resemblance to Chaplin?”), Oliver Stone, George Clooney, Guy Ritchie, Jodie Foster (who RDJ says was one of his biggest supporters during his tough times), Jude Law, Halle Berry, Michael Douglas, Jamie Foxx (who appeared on video at the event and told RDJ, “You are Van Gogh. May you keep your brushes dipped and keep creating the wonderful shades of Downey.”), Nicole Kidman, Winona Ryder, Woody Harrelson and Ben Stiller (who cast RDJ in his Oscar-nominated role in “Tropic Thunder”). Stiller had this to say about Downey after his “Iron Man” performance: “Yes, Downey is Iron Man but he really is Actor Man. In the realm where box office is irrelevant and talent is king, the realm that actually means something, he has always ruled. And finally this summer, he gets to have his cake and let us eat him up all the way to the multiplex, where his mastery is in full effect.” He is an actor’s actor and all the world adores him and rightfully so. Even though I missed the Gala Committee’s photo op with Robert before the event began, I still got a chance to meet him. I told him about my missed opportunity and he put his arm around me, asked me my name and pointed me toward a camera. We took not one, but two pics! I was in awe and beyond delighted. He was busy as a bee, but still took this moment to make a fan feel very special. And he would’ve taken questions from the audience all night long. This is the kind of guy he is…maybe too nice which is where his wife Susan steps in to protect him. They are a perfect match and earlier this month, they formed their own production company, Team Downey. Their first project will be the Steve McQueen script “Yucatan,” which is a heist film. Robert was interviewed for this evening at the Ritz by another well-known director, Todd Phillips, who has worked with some of Hollywood’s biggest comedic actors, writing and directing films like “Old School,” “Starsky and Hutch,” “School for Scoundrels” and, most recently, “The Hangover.” (Phillips was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on “Borat.”) During the interview, Downey said there have been two films he had to screen test for – “Chaplin” and “Iron Man” – and that he prepared the hardest for “Chaplin” by working on it every day for nine months to a year. Physically, “Iron Man” was the hardest film and he went into full health mode working on this film, drinking vitamin shakes and doing everything in his power to make himself appear as physically fit as the part called for. When asked how he decides what films to make he said, “Ultimately, it’s an intuitive decision. And for the last one, Susan said, “If you don’t make this film, we can’t buy this property” which had the crowd in stitches. He is so honest in his demeanor, likeable and just plain cute that you want to take him under your wing and keep him from harm. Susan is a lucky woman! Phillips told Downey that his performances never seemed to be affected by his past addictions and asked how this was possible. Downey replied, “Simply put, it’s love of the game and I try to respect it. Also, having a gargantuan hangover and a camera in your face is not pretty. It’s a privilege and you kind of just show up and do it.” When asked who he admires most as an actor, he joked laughingly, “No one comes to mind.” His next film which was directed by Phillips, is “Due Date” which will be out in the fall. We saw a sneak peek of the film with RDJ, Jamie Foxx and Zach Galifianakis and it looked like it will be very funny. It was a night to remember and I know everyone there will never forget seeing this incredible actor up close and personal. Congratulations to Gala co-chairs Ellen Sandor and Bill Marcus. Ellen’s formidable connections brought Downey to Chicago. Flying in during a thunderst
orm when he had wanted to take a later flight, RDJ jokingly commented that he was terrified, but he realized that “Jewish mother-in-law trumps Hollywood star.” Co-chair Bill Marcus gamely wore an Iron Man helmet to auction off the live auction packages. The L.A. Confidential Package sold for $8,500 and included two first class tickets on American Airlines to attend the premiere of “Due Date,” four tickets to “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” an exclusive preview party at the Museum of Contemporary Art and a stay at the Four Seasons. John McMahan won the Chicago raffle which, surprisingly, included a dinner in his own home…too funny! The Gala Committee included Michelle Cucchiaro, Eda Davidman, Melissa Sage Fadim, Marsha Goldstein, David Hundley, Marlene Iglitzen (Siskel), Lynn McMahan and moi but it took a village of dedicated Board Members and a crack PR Agency (Carol Fox and Associates) to put it over the top. A special shout-out to the amazing Joel Mangers for his tireless work on this party, too! The event was a sell-out and the crowd came dressed to impress. Even the goody bags were special and included DVDs of “Sherlock Holmes!” There was a cocktail reception and then the crowd moved into the low lit, intimate ballroom for dinner (each course was named after a movie Robert had done and were all delicious), the Q & A and the presentation of the much- deserved Renaissance Award to Robert who even had his own fan club there who had travelled from Montana, Ohio, California and Arizona just to see him. They came bearing gifts and Joyce Shroder even had a tie with her that RDJ had worn during an “Ally McBeal” episode that she had bought on eBay for $400. (He had signed it for her previously.) This event benefitted the Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago which presents cutting-edge programs, independent and international cinema, premieres, retrospectives and classic films. The Center attracts an audience of more than 80,000 annually. For more info, please visit www.siskelfilmcenter.org. I will see you all in line for tickets to “Due Date” in the fall! Robert, we love you! (Additional pics by Caitlin Saville…click here to see more!)

Congrats to my fellow “Bold & Beautiful” women selected by Kohler and Chicago magazine recently! Five local women were chosen for this honor and they include Catie Keogh (host and executive producer “24/7 Chicago” on NBC 5), Linda Novick O’Keefe (Executive Director for Common Threads), Laura Schwartz (author of “Eat, Drink and Succeed” and founder and principal of White House Strategies and international television commentator) and Mindy Segal (chef and owner of Hot Chocolate). There will be a private party at The Kohler Store at the Merchandise Mart on Wednesday, July 21st to celebrate. Congrats to my deserving girlfriends!!! :)

Now here is my latest find! I burn candles, all day, everyday. I love to have fresh scents in the house and, let’s face it, with two little dogs running around, this isn’t always easy to do. I recently read about someone’s list of favorite things in some magazine. I know, I know I should at least be able to share the person’s name but I tore the house apart looking for said magazine and it’s gone. But, rest assured, it was someone whose comments I respected or else I wouldn’t have ordered two Cire Trudon candles in the Roi Soleil scent. I was immediately intrigued by the description of the scent: “Fragrance of the Mirror Gallery and the vast wooden floor of the Chateau de Versailles, vapours of wax, candelabras and palace. This kingly and solar perfume blends a green and wooded wake of coniferous trees to the sumptuous dizziness of incense with a light ray of citrus.” Heady stuff, right? Well, I thought if this description is half right, I will be thrilled. I remember the Hall of Mirrors and the rich scent of wood and highly polished antiques and it was intoxicating. I cannot believe these candles smell EXACTLY the same! They are a beautiful mix of French oak, pine and citrus and are created by possibly the oldest candle maker and wax manufacturer in the world, Cire Trudon. Claude Trudon began Wax Trudo in 1643 at 12 Rue du Temple in Paris and initially created candles for the many churches of Paris. Louis XIV, XVI and Marie Antoinette all burned Cire Trudon candles. Napoleon even used the candles for lighting and ceremonies. The Trudon candles have fragrances that are based on the landmarks and history of France. I know they were available at Barney’s in NY but here is a link to order. I’m sure the other scents are terrific too and they are made from 100-percent vegetable wax with pure cotton wicks for the cleanest burn. I can’t wait to try all of them! http://www.ciretrudon.com/

This is it for now! I will be serving on the front lines of the Riviera to bring back a report for Candid Candace on July 14th. Until then, I hope your summer is all you hope it to be!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Don’t forget to pop into Minibar at 3341 N. Halsted on Thursday, July 22nd to wish everyone’s favorite hotel manager, Shaun Rajah, a wonderful 30th birthday! The party itself is invitation only but feel free to stop by The Drake at any time or by Minibar after 10 p.m. to celebrate!