Tag Archives: Sugar Hills Bakery

April 15, 2013 · 1:24 pm

WVON CELEBRATES 50TH WITH STAR-STUDDED RED CARPET GALA (VIDEO!)

…PLUS CHICAGO FASHION FOUNDATION’S BIG SHOW (ON WATCH312.COM!); THODOS DANCE CHICAGO’S “21 CLUB” GALA; THE “BREAST SHOW” EVER!; IT’S A “WONDERLAND” FOR CHICAGO HOUSE; HEBRU BRANTLEY’S BIG BD/PREVIEW PARTY; ROCHELLE’S “CHECK, PLEASE!” CAMPAIGN; ST. JUDE’S RESTAURANT EXTRAVAGANZA; A BLACKHAWK WITH HEART; HOWARD BROWN’S MAD HATTER’S BRUNCH AND SO MUCH MORE!

I didn’t grow up listening to WVON but after attending its 50th golden anniversary gala on April 6th, I sure wish I had. After attending the gala, hearing the history and meeting many of the legendary radio stars, I can only imagine how exciting this time
must’ve been and still is. I sure won’t miss listening to this station moving forward though! The legends of radio and the who’s who of Who-Ville all showed up on the red carpet for this event that attracted more than 1,000 to the Chicago Theatre. The weather was unpredictable as the reporters, cameramen and photographers
all waited with breathless anticipation to see who was going to show up in the on-again, off-again drizzle. And even though the weather wasn’t perfect, it did give us all a chance to bond under the building’s canopy as we waited as kindred spirits for our scoops. A lot of
the photogs started taking pics of the various media, many of whom were all too happy to sneak onto the red carpet for their own photo ops. It was a cute bunch of newbies and veterans and I was thrilled to be there for Watch312.com. I was also delighted to have two Illinois Center for Broadcasting students with me this night as interns, Sharisa Lee and Chasitie Neal – they both did an amazing job of social media and PA support! Finally the rain let up and we all went back to our carefully secured
posts to wait and boy, was it worth it! I had delightful interviews with Malik Yusef,
musician and spoken word poet. I asked him if he had written a poem in honor of this big night for WVON and boy did he ever! He even shared some of it with me in the video below. I also had the pleasure of speaking with Dick Gregory (comedian and civil rights activist), Reverend Jesse Jackson, Governor Quinn, Matt McGill (radio host
“Matt McGill Show”), Herb Kent “The Cool Gent” (WVON personality), Robert
Townsend (comedian, writer, director and actor), Cheryl Pearson McNeil and Susan Whiting (Nielsen Company), Kenny Williams (VP Chicago White Sox) and his fiancée Zoraida Sambolin (CNN host), Mellody Hobson (president of Ariel Investments and
George Lucas’ fiancée) and so many others. It was one of the most memorable nights in recent memory, so many legends and such a rich history for this radio station dubbed “The Voice
of a Nation.” WVON’s ground-breaking achievements are far too many to list here but let’s start with the fact that it’s given a voice to a sitting president Barack Obama, Martin Luther King, helped elect Harold Washington as our first
black mayor and Carol Mosely Braun as the first African American woman elected to the Senate and so much more. The evening started with King College Prep’s marching band under the leadership
of director Benjamin Washington. This awesome band entertained at the Inaugural and can do anything – they even performed a jazzy Duke Ellington number! A surprise video from President Obama delighted the crowd
especially when he mentioned how much he regrets not being able to co-host any WVON shows now…cute! Other highlights included production numbers by choreographer Andrea Kelly; video presentation by Herb Kent
“The Cool Gent” of all of the late, great WVON personalities; Teresa Britton who sang “Here’s to Life” with the West Point Choir; a video of Reverend Jesse Jackson’s “I Am Somebody” speech at the Million Man
March; Marv Dyson’s presentation of the Broadcast Pioneer Award to Pervis Spann “The Blues Man”; Robert Townsend who said “WVON was the soundtrack of my life”; broadcast pioneer Cathy
Hughes (“Chicago is the seat of black power.”); Craig Gilmore who presented a moving video clip titled “Impact 50” presented by State Farm (which will be shown in its entirety on WTTW); Reverend Al Sharpton (who
is scary skinny) and WVON president Melody Spann-Cooper’s introduction of her “band” which consisted of all of the event chairs, Mellody Hobson, Jim Reynolds, Earl Jones, Cathy Hughes and Susan Whiting “playing
instruments.” After their performance, Mellody said, “I have no idea how I got them all to do this!” The three-hour-long program featured Toni Braxton who appeared with her two glam sisters as backup singers.
She looked stunning in a flowing red gown and performed tirelessly for the appreciative crowd. And the party didn’t stop then nor did the rain keep guests from attending the after-party via private trolleys at the Museum of Broadcast Communications. It was a packed house offering guests
cocktails, delicious food and more entertainment! One of my personal highlights was meeting Minister Louis Farrakhan – everyone may not agree with his teachings but you sure can’t say the guy isn’t charismatic!
Women were flocking to him in droves as he left his balcony box to make his exit, surrounded by Nation of Islam (NOA) bodyguards. I’m so thrilled for Melody Spann-Cooper and the important voices and
messages people can hear on WVON. Just tune into 1690 AM because I have a feeling this is just the beginning for this vibrant spot on the dial. Happy 50th and many, many more WVON! (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina.)

http://admin.brightcove.com/js/BrightcoveExperiences.js

brightcove.createExperiences();

The Chicago Fashion Foundation hosted its biggest and best annual scholarship benefit at the Hard Rock Hotel on March 21st. Fifteen finalists, all students at local fashion colleges, competed for scholarship prizes amounting to $7K in front of a
sold-out, standing room only crowd. I was thrilled to return as a judge for this sixth annual “Future of Chicago Fashion” event founded by Chicago’s own Lana Bramlette in the kitchen of her home. She wanted to promote Chicago’s fashion scene and our town’s rich pool of design talent so she gathered like-minded friends together and created this wonderful
organization that gives back to the community as well as giving a leg up to local design students.
Other judges included Andrea Schwartz (Macy’s VP of Media Relations & Cause Marketing); Diego Rocha (handbag designer and “Project Accessory” contestant); Frances Renk (formerly Sequin Jewelry, consultant); Helen Berkun (contributing editor Glossed & Found) and J.P. Anderson (editor, Michigan Avenue Magazine). Before the fashion show began at 8:30 p.m., the students presented their designs for
judging. Each one had created jaw-dropping ensembles and it was difficult to decide who should take home the first place prize of $5,000,
second place prize of $1,000 and third place of $500. CFF Board members Amanda Domaleczny and Beth Lambert were on hand to greet the attendees and introduce the show. The designers were instructed to choose a time period as their inspiration. Valerie Baker (College of DuPage) chose the
1950’s as her inspiration. Her clear plastic jacket was a wonderful contrast over a navy blue, jersey column gown. Kenneth Beal was influenced by the 1750’s and created a red and white rococo ensemble that
reminded me of Tom Cruise as the Vampire Lestat. Amela Bego Harper was inspired by the 1960’s creating a hand-crocheted evening gown in yarn she bought in Paris. Myra Chung’s influence was the 1860’s and she was inspired by “Gone with the Wind.” Her
white, ruffled and beaded cocktail dress could also be worn over cigarette pants as a tunic. (She took third place.) Columbia College’s Elly Dongoski was influenced by the Spanish armada and the conquistadors of the 1500’s. Other designers included the Art Institute’s Kara Fenoglietto whose influence was the 1940’s. Her
crystal encrusted grey/blue top was a hit with the judges (winning second place) along with the leather pant she designed to go with it. Erin VonKannon
from Dominican University created a dramatic wire cage dress. Other student designers included Lauren Jackson, Megan Knape, Martha (Cindy) Lopez, Rich Masciantonio, Amber Steven, Cecilia Tito and Hayley Zimet. There was so much talent there our heads were spinning as was the SRO crowd who were on hand this night. But in the end, Agnes Hamerlik (Harper College) stole our hearts literally and figuratively with her “celebration of
life” ensemble that incorporated so many painstakingly difficult
details. Her cut-out stitching on the cuffs alone took 15 hours to finish. You could almost see the hand-beaded heart on the front beating it was so lifelike – even the sequins, which represented the blood flowing down the front, were hand-cut. It was a design that could
have easily been shown now on the runways of Paris and New York. Remember her name, since I know you will be hearing a lot more from her! Agnes was the grand prize winner receiving the $5,000 scholarship check
named in honor of patron Doris Scott Behr. Congrats to ALL of these talented designers! I think we’re going to need a lot more space next year for this much loved event honoring fashion in Chicago! Watch all of the action and join the party on my Watch312.com video below! And to see ALL event pics, please click here!

http://admin.brightcove.com/js/BrightcoveExperiences.js

brightcove.createExperiences();

Nearly 200 fans, friends and supporters of Thodos Dance Chicago, the contemporary dance company founded by Melissa Thodos, kicked up their heels at the company’s 21st anniversary gala “21 Club” recently at the
Chicago Cultural Center. The evening raised nearly $70K for the dance company known locally, nationally and internationally for its unique, three-tiered mission of inspiring expression through dance education, creation and performance.
Kim Vatis, NBC 5 anchor, longtime supporter of Thodos and chair of the “21 Club” host committee helped plan a classy, fun-filled evening themed to New York’s historic restaurant and prohibition-era speakeasy, the 21 Club. Honorary co-chairs were Anne Reinking,
the Tony Award-winning Broadway star, and frequent Thodos Dance Chicago guest artist Gary Chryst. Also lending their time and talents to make the gala a success were event chairs Courtney Pitt, Lesli Babbs, Diane Reilly, Michael Nugent, Joy Wingren, Lisa Malkin, David
Hall and Carla Hahan. Fans of New York’s 21 Club recall that during prohibition, only insiders armed with a secret password could gain entry to the restaurant and its secret underground
wine cellar. Guests enjoyed the very same private privilege as they entered TDC’s modern-day 21 Club, where they encountered an exciting evening including cocktails, cabaret entertainment by Tommy Hensel and Dan Stetzel, a silent auction, a wine roulette wheel, a delicious dinner followed by dancing late into the night to the music of Swing
Assembly. The live entertainment highlight was a performance by the Thodos Dance Chicago Youth
Ensemble and an exclusive sneak peek of Ann Reinking and Melissa Thodos’ newest production entitled “A Light in the Dark, the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan,” an intimate dance/theater piece about the extraordinary woman who was deaf and blind yet went on to become a world-famous writer, political activist and inspiration to all. As a teaching company, members of this highly-trained ensemble hold BAs and MFAs in
dance, and teach at the elementary, high school and university levels. For more info about this incredible company, please visit www.thodosdancechicago.org. (Photos by Charles Osgood…view more pics here!)

Howard Brown Health Center and Bright Pink have partnered to host the fourth annual “Breast Show EVER!”, a breast health awareness and burlesque-themed event on April 17th at Mary’s Attic, located at 5400 N. Clark, from 7 to 9 p.m. This event will teach attendees everything they need to know about breast health in a fun, upbeat and energetic environment. Featuring performances by top performing members of Chicago’s burlesque community, this revue will be filled with life-saving breast and ovarian health tips and trivia. The event is FREE and open to the public! For more info, please contact Betsy Rubinstein at 773.388.8993 or email betsyr@howardbrown.org.

Here’s something for the young and the young at heart! Chicago Children’s Theatre Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell announced the company’s 2012-13 season finale, a world premiere collaboration with Redmoon’s Frank Maugeri to create “The Elephant and The Whale.” This all-new family fable
features sea voyages, wild mechanical objects, circus songs, panoramic paintings, exquisite shadow puppets and an innovative sound design. Performances run thru May 26th at Chicago Children’s Theatre’s new home, the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 N. Dearborn. The year is 1919 and it’s the end of an era for a beloved circus elephant named Ella. When a nefarious new owner takes over the homegrown Hoogebeck Family show, Ella the star
elephant discovers an unexpected new animal in the circus: a landlocked and homesick baby whale. What happens next is a unique story of friendship and adventure spanning species, rivers, railroads and nautical miles. Single tickets start at $25 and are on sale now. To purchase, visit www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (872) 222-9555. For group rates, visit www.GroupTix.net or call (773) 327-3778.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation will honor Richard and Mary Gray on April 19th at its 38th annual gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, located at 221 N. Columbus Dr. Co-Chaired by architect Dirk Lohan and CAF Board Chairman John Pintozzi, this event honors the Grays for their shared commitment to the
arts and the preservation of significant architectural landmarks including Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House. The evening, themed “Architecture is Art,” also recognizes 2013
as the 50th anniversary of the opening of The Richard Gray Gallery, where he was the first to host a show recognizing architects as artists with an exhibition featuring The Chicago Seven in 1967. The “Chicago Seven” was a first-generation postmodern group of architects in Chicago. The original seven were Stanley Tigerman, Laurence O. Booth, Stuart
Cohen, Ben Weese, James Ingo Freed, Thomas Beeby and James L. Nagle. In the spirit of the theme, the gala will feature an auction offering original works of art by some of Chicago’s most renowned architects including Tigerman of Tigerman McCurry, Phil Enquist of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Peter Exley of Architecture Is Fun, Carlos Martinez of Gensler, Gyo
Obata of HOK, Martin Wolf of Solomon Cordwell Buenz and Dirk Lohan of Lohan Anderson. The auction will also include original photography from Hedrich Blessing and Annie Leibovitz. Joan Gand, one of CAF’s trustees will perform with her blues and soul band: The Blue Road Band featuring special guest Shirley King, daughter of the legendary B.B. King. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

Chicago House, the first organization in the Midwest to provide housing and support for people living with HIV and AIDS, will celebrate its 26th Annual Spring Brunch and Fashion Show at the Harold Washington Library on May 5th, from noon to 3:30 p.m. Join Chicago House for this annual event titled “Wonderland” which will feature a three-course brunch, silent auction and
fashion show featuring local designers and boutiques. Chicago House CEO Stan J. Sloan, co-chairs Colin Falco and Shira Kollins and special events manager Jeremy Hilborn hopes to take their guests on a topsy-turvy journey which will tease at storybook characters with a fashionable twist. “Chicago House serves such a diverse population, including members of Chicago’s LGBT community, and we want to relay a message that in our own ‘Wonderland,’ anything goes!,” said
Hilborn. The fashion show will headline spring 2013 looks from AZZA, Cram, Bonobos, Lulu’s On The Avenue, Suit Supply, Ramsey Prince Designs and Ricorso. The organization will also present its annual Spirit Award to Illinois State Representative Kelly Cassidy, in acknowledging her ongoing advocacy for women, the LGBT communities and Chicago House. For tickets and more info, please visit www.chicagohouse.org.

Hebru Brantley, nationally recognized Chicago art superstar, celebrated his birthday in grand style recently with a blow-out bash at Ultra Gallery’s Lacuna Artist Lofts (located at 2150 S. Canalport) with 1,000 friends and fans. This
birthday celebration and collector’s preview, “Downtown 88,” was hosted by Hennessy Black and also featured music by legendary rapper Q-Tip. Hebru was joined by his model girlfriend, Angela Carrol, who never left his side the entire night. A
specially made birthday cake was wheeled out half-way through the event as Q-Tip led the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday.” Other entertainment included a stilt walker, a woman who danced with fire sticks and ballet dancers. Hebru was presented with a crystallized bottle of Hennessy Black bearing his name which he used to toast the crowd. Brantley is a favorite among elite art collectors and has
recently had a piece purchased by Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter for a reported $20K! (Swizz Beatz and Lupe Fiasco are also lovers of his work.) Brantley draws influence from an array of pop culture icons, comic book heroes, Japanese anime and the bold aesthetics of street art pioneers Jean Michel Basquiat, Kaws and Keith Haring. His recent focus is to share energetic narratives, moments of reality from his life and the lives of his peers, mixed with fantastical fiction to create a fragmented environment of
make-believe. Spray paint is often at the forefront of these mixed-media illustrations, working in part to “de-contextualize the levity of cartoon imagery
and bring a critical edge into the white cube.” From this, Brantley has developed his own unique style and identifies as an Afro-Futurist. His creative process is akin to free-form journaling and he uses a variety of surfaces and media including wood, spray paint, coffee and tea. His work delves into political and social issues with a conscious focus on playful insight and the optimism and possibilities of youth. Recognized nationally for public works and solo shows in
Chicago, Brantley has exhibited in San Francisco, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles and New York. He was most recently the winner of the Redbull Curates Chicago contest and
will exhibit at Scope art fair in December. Brantley has been commissioned by Skyy Vodka, Nike and Tyra Banks, he created the Lollapalooza poster for the 25th anniversary of the festival in 2011 and is exhibited regularly by Tim Yarger Gallery in Beverly Hills and Kasia Kay Art Projects in Chicago. Two of
Brantley’s paintings are currently featured at the American Embassy in Stockholm through 2013. Brantley earned a BA in film from Clark Atlanta University and has a background in design and media illustration. To learn more about this amazing artist, please visit his website. We have a legend in our midst…catch him while you can. (Photos by Onassis.)

Don’t miss the 49th International Film Festival Television Awards on April 23rd from 5:30 p.m. through 9 p.m. at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, located at 221 N. Columbus Dr. The event will be hosted by Jeanne Sparrow, co-host of “You & Me This Morning” on WCIU. As part of the event, journalist Walter Jacobson will be presented
with the inaugural “Chicago Legend Award.” Other honorees include ad agency Leo Burnett and ESPN Films. The evening will feature a cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres, followed by the awards ceremony in the main ballroom. Video clips will be screened with surprise guests from the industry. For tickets ($75) and more info, please visit www.chicagofilmfestival.com.

The 12th Annual Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence will be held on April 26th at 700 S. Des Plaines. Hosted by Inese and Richard Driehaus, the event will offer $8,500 worth of design scholarship prizes as well as the Macy’s Choice Award, which will give the winner the opportunity to display their designs at Macy’s on State Street. There will also be a live auction conducted by Leslie Hindman, a high energy runway show and an after-party; Linda Yu will return as emcee. For tickets and more info, please visit www.driehausdesign.org.

St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital will host its 19th St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza on April 17th at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, located at 301 E. North Water St. This special evening will offer cuisine from some of Chicago’s top restaurants, a cocktail reception, live and silent auctions and special St. Jude patient speaker, Emily Daniels. For tickets and more info, please click here!

There are 17 finalists in the running for the host of WTTW’s “Check Please!” but one creative finalist, Rochelle Trotter, rallied support and hoped to rock the vote with a campaign party at Tavernita recently with 200 friends and
supporters. This “Check4Rochelle” party included a specialty cocktail dubbed “Yo, Ro!” as well as “Check, Please!”-themed sugar cookies created by Jacob Neminarz of Sugar Hills Bakery. Attendees included Alex Vasileski, Anna Davlantes, Azeeza
Khan, Chanel Cooney, Saira and Christopher Cooper, Frances and Chris Renk, Denise Dayan, Gayle Anthony, Jared Hatch, Jeff Conway, Karyn Calabrese, Laurie Davis, DJ Madrid Perry, Natasha Isaacs, Paul Iacono, Chef Ryan Poli,
Vonita Reescer, Wilbert Jones, William Heard, Yana Nirshberg and Michael Scott Carter among others. Other finalists for “Check, Please!” include Cassidy Stirtz (server/actor); Tony Diaz (sous chef at Maude’s Liquor Bar); Senam Amegashie (freelance
writer); Sarah Levy (owner of S. Levy Foods/magazine editor); Donny DeCastro (owner of Tavern at the Park); Frank Brunacci (former executive chef at Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago, currently chef at The
Chefs Diamond Co.); Flavia Magdalin (general manager at RL Restaurant); Tommy Walton (fashion design teacher at SAIC); Ina Pinkney (chef/owner of Ina’s Kitchen); Emilie Rose Bishop (chief mixologist at
iNG); Anthony Todd (food and drink editor for Chicagoist.com/Chicago editor for Citysearch.com); Cristiane Pereira (chef/owner of Taste of Brasil Café); Catherine de Orio (president at Culinary Curator); Cleetus Friedman
(former chef/owner of City Provisions); Alia Dalal (personal chef/food tour guide); and Bill St. John (wine writer for the Chicago Tribune/professor at the University of Chicago’s Graham School). The polls close April 17th, so cast your vote HERE and may the best foodie win!

A Blackhawk with heart! Earlier this month, Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith and his wife Kelly-Rae met the Pfister family of Norco, Calif., at the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s to give the family a proper send-off. Heart surgery patient Andrew Pfister (just six months old), this week received the long-awaited “go-ahead” to return home to California. Andrew was born with an extremely rare heart defect and recently underwent delicate surgery at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. For the past few weeks, Andrew has been recovering on the floor sponsored by the Keiths so Duncan and his wife decided a proper send-off was in order! What a happy story! Good luck Andrew and great job Duncan and Kelly-Rae! 🙂

Howard Brown’s Mad Hatter’s Brunch attracted more than 200 Chicagoans sporting their most outrageous and zany hats for this inaugural fundraiser to benefit programs and services for the Broadway Youth Center. Held at Zed451, the event featured
entertainment by The Kinsey Sicks – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet, who dazzled the audience with their lyrical satire about pop culture and politics. For more info and event updates from the Howard Brown Health Center, please click here!

I’m so happy to finally have my blog out today! My computer is about ready to give up so it’s been touch and go trying to type between the black-outs. Hopefully, the next time you read my blog, it will be from a brand new computer! In the meantime, I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Candid Candace and will “like” it and “share” it! Please send any comments or suggestions to me at Candace@CandidCandace.com!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. After a mother chimpanzee died in a zoo, one of the zoo’s employees took the newly orphaned chimp home to care for it. It never occurred to him that his dog, who had just given birth, would give it unconditional love. Awwwwwwww! 🙂

1 Comment

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

Tagged as 19th St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza, 21 Club, 49th International Film Festival Television Awards, A Light in the Dark the Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, Agnes Hamerlik, Alex Vasileski, Alia Dalal, Amanda Domaleczny, Amber Steven, Amela Bego Harper, Andrea Kelly, Andrew Pfister, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Anna Davlantes, Anne Reinking, Annie Leibovitz, Anthony Todd, Azeeza Khan, AZZA, B.B. King, Barack Obama, Ben Weese, Benjamin Washington, Beth Lambert, Betsy Rubenstein, Bill St. John, Bonobos, Breast Show EVER!, Bright Pink, Broadway Youth Center, Candace Jordan, Candid Candace, Carla Hahan, Carlos Martinez, Carol Mosley Braun, Cassidy Stirtz, Catherine de Orio, Cathy Hughes, Cecilia Tito, Chanel Cooney, Charles Osgood, Chasitie Neal, Check Please!, Check4Rochelle, Chef Ryan Poli, Cheryl Pearson McNeil, Chicago Architecture Foundation, Chicago Children’s Theatre, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago House, chicago theatre, Christopher Cooper, Cleetus Friedman, Colin Falco, Courtney Pitt, Craig Gilmore, CRAM, Cristiane Pereira, Dan Stetzel, David Hall, Denise Dayan, Diane Reilly, Dick Gregory, Dirk Logan, Dirk Lohan, DJ Madrid Perry, Donny DeCastro, Doris Scott Behr, Downtown 88, Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence, Duke Ellington, Duncan Keith, Earl Jones, Elly Dongoski, Emilie Rose Bishop, Emily Daniels, Erin VonKannon, Farnsworth House, Flavia Magdalin, Frances and Chris Renk, Frank Brunacci, Frank Maugerie, Future of Chicago Fashion, Gary Chryst, Gayle Anthony, George Lucas, Governor Pat Quinn, Gyo Obata, Hard Rock Hotel, Harold Washington, Hayley Zimet, Hebru Brantley, Hennessy Black, Herb Kent The Cool Gent, Howard Brown, Howard Brown Health Center, Illinois Center for Broadcasting, Ina Pinkney, Ines Driehaus, Jacob Neminarz, Jacqueline Russell, James Ingo Freed, James L. Nagle, Jared Hatch, Jay-Z, Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeanne Sparrow, Jeff Conway, Jeremy Hilborn, Jim Reynolds, Joan Gand, John Pintozzi, Joy Wingren, Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Kara Fenoglietto, Karyn Calabrese, Kasia Kay Art Projects, Kaws, Keith Haring, Kelly Cassidy, Kelly-Rae Keith, Kenneth Beal, Kenny Williams, Kim Vatis, King College Prep, Lana Bramlette, Lauren Jackson, Laurence O. Booth, Laurie Davis, Lesli Babbs, Leslie Hindman, Linda Yu, Lisa Malkin, Lollapalooza, Lulu’s on the Avenue, Lupe Fiasco, Macy’s Choice Award, Mad Hatter’s Brunch, Malik Yusef, Martha Cindy Lopez, Martin Luther King, Martin Wolf, Marv Dyson, Mary Gray, Mary’s Attic, Matt McGill, Megan Knape, Melissa Thodos, Mellody Hobson, Michael Nugent, Michael Scott Carter, Mies van der Rohe, Mila Samokhina, Minister Louis Farrakhan, Museum of Broadcast Communications, Myra Chung, Natasha Isaacs, Nike, Onassis, Paul Iacono, Pervis Spann The Blues Man, Peter Exley, Pfister family, Phil Enquist, Q-Tip, Ramsey Prince Designs, Redbull Curates Chicago, Redmoon, Reverend Al Sharpton, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Rich Masciantonio, Richard Driehaus, Richard Gray, Richard Gray Gallery, Ricorso, Robert Townsend, Rochelle Trotter, Ronald McDonald House, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, Saira Cooper, Sarah Levy, Scope, Senam Amegashie, Sharisa Lee, Shawn Carter, Shira Kollins, Shirley King, Skyy Vodka, Spirit Award, St, Stan J. Sloan, Stanley Tigerman, State Farm, Stuart Cohen, Sugar Hills Bakery, Suit Supply, Susan Whiting, Swing Assembly, Swizz Beatz, Tavernita, Teresa Britton, The Chicago Seven, The Elephant and The Whale, The Kinsey Sicks – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet, Thodos Dance Chicago, Thodos Dance Chicago Youth Ensemble, Thomas Beeby, Tim Yarger Gallery, Tom Cruise, Tommy Hensel, Tommy Walton, Toni Braxton, Tony Diaz, Tyra Banks, Ultra Gallery’s Lacuna Artist Lofts, Valerie Baker, Voice of a Nation, Vonita Reescer, Walter Jacobson, Watch312.com, WCIU, West Point Choir, Wilbert Jones, William Heard, Wonderland, WTTW, WVON, Yana Nirshberg, Yo Ro, You & Me This Morning, Zed451, Zoraida Sambolin

March 5, 2013 · 1:36 pm

GLAMOUR, GLITZ AND FRIENDS: CHICAGO’S OSCAR PARTIES ROCKED!

…PLUS CHICAGO’S NY FASHION WEEK PRESENCE; THE PAYTON FAMILY SERVES COCKTAILS FOR CHARITY; GIRLS IN THE GAME; ART’S BIG GAY ICE CREAM SOCIAL; COSTUME BALL FEATURES 50 YEARS OF EBONY FASHION FAIR; “FEDORAS, FLAPPERS & ALL THAT JAZZ”; LEAH’S NEW VIP SPOT; RAP'S NEW BAD BOY AND SO MUCH MORE!

There were so many Oscar parties around town that it was a hard decision to choose just one. But the event hosted at PUBLIC by GlossedandFound.com’s
Graham Kostic and Monika Dixon was not to be missed! The red carpet snaked from the lobby into the library where these two party pros had prepped the room to perfection. A towering cake
by Jacob Neminarz (of the family-owned Sugar Hills Bakery) had created an Oscar-worthy delight that included edible film reels! Besides Dixon and Kostic, glam host committee
members included Alexis Cozzini, Jessie Kalin and Darnell Robinson. I love the library space at this hotel and think it’s so intimate and chic and the back viewing room served as THE
perfect place to watch the 85th Academy Awards in style! I saw so many friends there like Leah Chavie, Jared Hatch, Lonnie Rodriguez, Eva Pawlus, Yana Nirshberg, Paul Iacono, Geoffrey Dixon, Kasia Konair, Mary Kostic, Drew
Doleski, Victoria Olivares, William Heard, Ricardo Sebastian, JuJu LaCour, Eva Daiburl, Amelia Canham Eaton, Samantha Voss, Gregory Fear, Greg Dillard, Monika Gabal, Eva Starzomski, Suzan Faber,
Anthony Berg, Thai Tyler, Darnell Robinson, Amy DiTomasso, Jessi Sheehan, Anna Majewski, Morgan Byrne, Marisa Ruis and Laura Modica among many others
(around 120 in all). Guests enjoyed two large viewing screens and DJ Kamil Bartoszcze kept the crowd swaying to the music. Partygoers received mini bottles of Moet & Chandon champagne and, besides the Sugar Hills Bakery cake, the sweets table also included treats from Amy DiTomasso’s Sugar Chic Designs. All of the guests came dressed to
impress but the Best Dressed Award winners were Amelia Eaton (The Chicago Life Blog) and
Darnell Robinson (of Christian Louboutin). And my highlight of the Oscars? Seeing Charlize Theron’s stunning new close-cropped haircut! This woman could look fabulous in a garbage bag but her new short do made her look exceptionally stunning. Hope you enjoyed your Oscar party, too!

Another top Oscar party was a more intimate affair but no less delightful! Hostess with the mostest Helen Melchior hosted her own get-together at her fabulous Nate Berkus-designed
apartment on Lake Shore Drive – even her hall statue was draped in a red feather boa, alerting to the surprises within. Helen had her own red carpet which flowed down her hallway and into her home theatre (aka her cozy den). As we all enjoyed the show, the food never stopped
coming…delightful treats from Helen’s favorite, Benchmark (located at 1510 N. Wells), included sliders, chicken roll-ups, lamb chops, quesadillas and more. Helen prepared her specialty, homemade guacamole, along with tasty Italian meatballs and roasted shrimp and sinful apple tarts came courtesy of
George Jewell. Guests included Leslie Hindman, George Jewell, John Walcher, Joan Colmar, Ken Norgan, Cammie Britton, Tara Klecka, Phil Lumpkin and Bill Tadford, Beth Silverman and Christopher Clinton Conway. We were all given ballots to vote for our choices but in the end, Joan Colmar walked away the winner. A fun night with friends…what more could you ask?

Now in its fifth season, EMERGE! A Fashion Runway Show created and produced by Dionne Williams of D. Williams Public Relations Group, featured an eclectic
ensemble of artists during New York Fashion Week 2013. These aspiring fashion designers from around the world showcased their artistic genius with amazing collections that powered down the runway. Highlights
included celebrity stylist and lifestyle guru Phillip Bloch honoring fellow style guru Mikki Taylor, a woman who has given birth to a culture of glamour, sophistication and innovation, with the Fashion Innovator Award.
This invite-only affair played host to retail buyers, fashion influencers, top fashion editors, tastemakers, socialites and an amazing array of celebrities who included honoree Mikki Taylor (fashion icon), Phillip Bloch (brand ambassador), Regina Taylor (actress), J. Alexander (“America's Next Top Model”), Dwight Eubanks (“Real Housewives of Atlanta”), Carissa
Rosario (international model), Justiin
Davis (“Boardwalk Empire”), Phyllis Yvonne Stickney (actress) and many more. The Broad Street Ballroom came to life with the thrilling fashions from EMERGE! designers. They included:
Bishme Cromartie – Bishme Cromartie’s collection is edgy sophistication with well-constructed pieces. His collection was cohesive and yet unafraid to take risks.
Parul Aneja – Parul Aneja’s collection adorned the runway with vibrant colors inspired by her hometown of New Delhi. She
specializes in wedding gowns, cocktail dresses, prom and eveningwear.
Deidre Jefferies, ESPION Atelier – ‘ESPION’ (French
for the English word ‘spy’) Jefferies defines her design aesthetic as “the future of classic clothing.” Her strong, yet sexy collection embodied a sleek sophistication combining male and female elements into a luxury line committed
to quality.
Bernice Morgan, Designersberg – A full line of beautiful custom-made
African dresses in a variety of materials including cotton prints, damask, lace and linens came down the runway with a fresh take on modern ethnic wear.
Butterfli Tia – Butterfli Tia's swimwear collection, 2-A-T, came down the runway making a bold statement
with sexy embellishments, well-crafted pieces and bold color choices.
EMERGE! A Fashion Runway Show has become one of the top emerging designer platforms during New York Fashion Week and has been consistent
in providing a national outlet for emerging designers to showcase their work. Hundreds of designer submissions are reviewed by an elite designer committee, which selects some of the top designers from around the world. For more info, please visit www.dwilliamspr.com. (All photos by www.timefrozen.com…you may view more pics from this fantastic event here!)

Glen Ellyn’s Glen Prairie restaurant will host a Celebrity Bartending Event to benefit the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation on April 24th at 1250 Roosevelt Road. With Brittney, Jarrett and Connie Payton all in attendance as well as many Chicago Bears, this night is sure to be fun-filled! Glen Prairie GM Steve Lapino said, “Glen Prairie is proud to be a part of this great event. We look forward to hosting the Payton family and their friends for this fun filled night here in Glen Ellyn.” The event will start at 7:00 p.m. with members of the Payton family bartending during the night. All tips and
gratuities made at the bar that evening will benefit the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation. Silent auction items and raffles will take place with all proceeds of these items benefiting the foundation, which is dedicated to the emotional healing of neglected, abused, and underprivileged children in Illinois by providing tools and opportunities to build self-esteem and give them a reason that tomorrow can be different, that tomorrow can be better. For more information, please visit www.payton34.com.

The Chicago Sky’s Swin Cash’s involvement in Girls in the Game (GITG) is more than just as an honored champion at the gala event. In September 2012, one
month after receiving her second Olympic gold medal, Swin launched The Sport-It Girl Initiative. Her vision was to develop a mentoring program for middle-school aged girls to honor the 40th anniversary of Title IX (the landmark legislation banning sex discrimination in schools, whether it be in academics or athletics) which had a significant
impact on her own life. She partnered with Girls in the Game and works with 40
girls from the Chicago Public Schools system who are involved in sports and collaborated with the Chicago Sky, Sky Cares Foundation and Nike to make the launch a memorable experience for the girls. The initiative provides in-depth mentoring and programming
focused on sports, leadership, health and community service. Sport-It-Girl is off to a great start and Swin regularly interacts with her girls through social media. One week later, Swin
was at McCormick Place as one of a handful of elite athletes who had been invited to participate alongside First Lady Michele Obama for the launch of Let’s Move Active Schools, the newest
program in the Let’s Move! initiative. Adam Fox, CEO of the Chicago Sky said, “We are happy to be a sponsor for Girls in the Game. Through our Sky Cares Foundation, we are able to provide tickets to our games and work with GITG on other initiatives.” Every
year, Girls in the Game empowers more than 3,000 girls to make healthier choices and develop the confidence and leadership skills they need to succeed on and off the field. They are one of the only organizations in the Chicago
area dedicated to year-round, multi-sport and wellness programs for girls and young women. For more info on GITG, please click here and for more info on the Chicago Sky – whose season begins May 27th! – click here. (Photos by SUMPHOTO Photography.)

More than 400 people recently attended Chef Art Smith’s Big Gay Ice Cream Social at the James Royal Palm Hotel in Miami Beach. Eating handmade ice cream poolside by Real Sorbet of Miami and floats created by the Big Gay Ice Cream Truck, attendees came together to help raise awareness for
marriage equality in Florida. (Recently, Chef Art and his life partner Jesus Salgueiro also co-hosted the Equality Illinois Justice for All Gala in Chicago.) Celebrity chefs and a famous female impersonator brought some noise to support marriage equality in the middle of the SOBE Food and Wine Fest.
Chef Art said, “For a place known as the sunshine state, it’s in the darkness over LGBT rights. My Florida will see the sunshine. It’s the place where I was born and it’s the place where I found Jesus on South Beach. LOL! It’s the place we will return to my family’s historic farm
but, we will return as a recognized legally married couple.” Guests in attendance included Andrew Zimmeren (Discovery Channel), Duff Goldman (Food Network), Johnny Luzzini (“Ace of Cakes”), Spike Mendelsohn (“Top Chef”), Anne Burrell (“Top Chef”), Sunny Anderson (Food Network), Lorena Garcia (“Top Chef Masters”), JM Hirsh (AP Food Editor) and famed gay icon Chi Chi Larue.

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, in conjunction with Johnson Publishing Company, will host the Costume Ball on March 15th beginning at 6 p.m. with cocktails and an exhibition preview of “50 Years of the Ebony Fashion Fair.” This one-of-a-kind exhibition will explore the 50 year history of Eunice W. Johnson’s ground-breaking fashion show, which brought
couture fashions to African American communities, while raising millions of dollars for charity. More than 60 garments, including works by Oscar de la Renta, Christian Dior, Stephen Burrows and Yves St. Laurent, will be on display. This black-tie event is chaired by Linda Johnson Rice. (For more info, please click here.)

I hope you can join me on March 12th for a special screening of “Girl Rising,” a documentary that tells the stories of nine remarkable girls from around the globe, each striving beyond circumstances. Directed by Academy Award nominee Richard Robbins (who will be in attendance), the film demonstrates the urgent importance of educating some 66 million girls from around the world who today, can only dream of going to school. Hosted by Daphne Ortiz, Gina Marotta and Molly Rudberg-Leshnock, the event will begin with a reception at 6:30 p.m. followed by a 7:30 p.m. screening. Tickets are only $10 each, with a portion of the sales helping to fund girls’ programs through the 10X10 campaign. For tickets and more info, please click here.

A big thank you shout-out to my friend Bonnie Spurlock, editor-and-chief of Sophisticate’s Hairstyle Guide, for including my Candid Candace lipstick from CAMP Cosmetics in her April issue! This magazine is the number one best-selling hair and beauty magazine in the world and features hundreds of new styles, celebrity interviews, product news and more – a must-read for the stylish set!

Congrats are in order for Leah Chavie of Leah Chavie Skin Care Boutique! She has opened a new, exclusive VIP facility located at 2500 N. Halsted, directly across the street from her original location in Lincoln Park. This new spot was designed to be ultra private to cater
to celebrity and VIP clients; in fact, all services here will be performed by Leah Chavie herself. To book an appointment, please call 773.360.1714 and for more info, visit www.leahchavie.com. Congrats, Leah!

Opulence, decadence, glamour! Evoking the spirit of the 1920’s when fashions liberated and jazz exploded, the Face the Future Foundation will have you dancing the night away at its Roaring Twenties-inspired gala, “Fedoras, Flappers and All That
Jazz,” on March 9th at the Four Seasons. So grab your beaded headbands and top hats, slip into your silk stockings and spats and shimmy on over where you’ll join Honorary Chair and all-around great guy Chicago Bear Israel Idonije, along with event co-chairs Mary Genet and Michael Judge. The night will include dancing to the Stanley Paul Orchestra and a live auction that includes a week at a Tuscan Villa, a trip on the Orient Express and a week at the Bitter End Yacht Club. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.facethefuturefoundation.org/)

Urban Gateways’ annual “Arts for All Gala” will be held on March 8th, at City Winery Chicago (located at 1200 W. Randolph St.) from 6 to 9 p.m. This always exciting and inspiring event will include performances by Urban Gateways students from South Chicago, a film on violence in North Lawndale presented by a Chicago high school student who lives there and a gallery of student artwork. Honorary co-chairs are Kay and Jim Mabie and advisory committee members include Susan and Nick Pritzker, Cheryl and Eric McKissack and Dawoud Bey. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.urbangateways.org.) Check out this video from last year's event!

The Red Moon Theater Company is one of my favorites and its major fundraiser, Red Moon’s Spectacle Lunatique, always puts me and everyone else who attends on sensory overload! The sights, the sounds, phones ringing, fires blazing, confetti falling, people giving, candles winking…it’s a creative
wonderland of unimaginable delights! And this year’s event will be held in its new home, a 50,000-square-foot warehouse located at 2120 S. Jefferson in Pilsen! With more space, one can only imagine what will be in store for this year’s gala! So save March 9th for Red Moon! For tickets and more info, please click here! (Photos by Mila Samokhina.)

That’s the news for this week! There’s so much to do and see around town in March! Wowza! I hope I get to see you at one or more of these fabulous events soon! Until next time…

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

P.S. Congrats to the dynamic team from Siena Tavern – Lucas Stoioff and David Rekhson (Dineamic Group) and Chef Fabio Viviani (“Top Chef All-Stars”) – on their grand opening! Can’t wait to stop in at 51 W. Kinzie and congratulate you all in person!

P.P.S. More congrats are in order for rapper sensation Trinidad James. Coming off the success of his smash radio single and video for “All Gold Everything,” James is now on an 11-city tour that will highlight tracks from his debut project, “Don’t Be S.A.F.E.” and also serve as the launch for his second single, “Females Welcomed.” Check him out here!!

SUSAN G. KOMEN CHICAGO GALA HONORS PINK TIE GUYS!

…PLUS NEXT FASHION CHICAGO’S FAB LOCAL DESIGNERS STRUT FOR PAWS, LUX MGT’S MAISON DE LACOUR SHOW, POTUS AND LITTLE FRIEND, RMHC’S FUN FUNDRAISERS, PAUL STUART’S PHINEAS COLE PARTY, NATE AND THE BIEBS ATTRACT CROWDS, MARTINIS & MISTLETOE, LUXURY GARAGE SALE’S GRAND OPENING, CONGRATS ARE IN ORDER, A WONDERFUL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Tribune Media Group reaffirmed its fight to help end breast cancer by hosting the second annual Pink Tie Gala (themed “Mission Possible”) at Riverfront Theater on Friday, October 19th, benefitting Susan G. Komen Chicago. The event saluted the 2013 class of Komen Chicago Pink Tie Guys and I had the honor of co-hosting with WGN’s Dina Bair. The night’s selection included eleven male influencers who are making a difference in
this battle against breast cancer. These men were nominated by the community and selected by the Komen Chicagoland Board of Directors and represent a wide range of male leaders who live in the Chicagoland area and have a personal connection to breast cancer, a dedication to philanthropy and who help bring awareness to the cause. This illustrious group of men included everybody’s favorite host Ryan Chiaverini from “Windy City Live”, Chicago Public Health Dept. Commissioner Dr. Bechara Choucair, 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, Imerman Angels founder Jonny Imerman (Jonny is a young adult cancer survivor who, after being diagnosed at age 26, founded the organization to carefully match a cancer fighter with someone who has already triumphed over the disease), Victor LaGroon (Manager of the Community Engagement, Cancer Disparities Program at the University of Illinois at Chicago Cancer Center), Jim Logothetis (senior client service partner for Ernst & Young), Reverend Percy W. McCray (Director of Pastoral Care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Midwestern Regional Medical Center), Wade Miquelon (EVP, CFO and President of International for Walgreen’s) and Dr. Steven Rosen (director Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern University); VP/GM of the Chicago Blackhawks Stan Bowman and former mayor Richard Daley (honorary chairman) who couldn’t attend this night. Brotha Fred emceed the evening and thanked sponsors Lexus, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Wintrust Community Bank and Walgreen’s. (Walgreen’s Wade Miquelon announced a $25K donation that night for Susan G. Komen.) Dina Bair shared her inspiring story as a two-time cancer survivor and mother of four and then introduced a touching video of Bridget Spence, who has stage four breast cancer. Other speakers included Komen Chicago’s Executive Director Michael Ziener and the Chicago Tribune’s John O’Neil. “We are honored to have these outstanding leaders in the Chicagoland community working with us to fulfill our mission of a world without breast cancer. While traditionally a woman’s disease, the reality is, men can get breast cancer, too,” said Zeiner. With more than 300 attendees, this event also included fabulous portraits by Rosemary Fanti, a silent auction, a Heads or Tails game, an ActionBooth, a nail booth courtesy of Walgreen’s, tasty bites from Paris Club (delicious pumpkin soup with lobster and chestnuts!), Mitchell’s Soda Shop and decadent chocolates from Truffle, Truffle. Susan G. Komen Chicago has been in existence for more than 15 years and, to date, the organization has invested more than $12 million funding local non-profits that provide lifesaving services to uninsured and underinsured women in the Chicagoland area. Proceeds ($50K) from the Pink Tie Gala will go back into the community to support low income women for breast cancer screening, education, treatment and support. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes. To learn more or to donate, please visit www.KomenChicago.org. (Fab fotos by Caitlin Saville Collins…see more here!)

Germania Place was filled to bursting on October 16th with more than 400 of our town's most stylish for the NEXT Fashion Chicago show that featured some of our top designers and boutiques. The show kicked off at 8:30 p.m., after NBC's Marcus Riley and I welcomed the crowd. The lights dimmed, the music pumped up and a Grace Kelly (esque) model wearing a Mark Roscoe-designed magenta cocktail dress hit the runway in dark glasses and an upswept 'do. The show featured everything from couture to casual, elegant to edgy and everything in-between including a clever segment spotlighting custom hand-painted stiletto boots from Just Human by Yemonja Smalls worn by models dressed in black unitards. Midway through the show, a moving video presentation showcased the work of PAWS Chicago and the animals available for adoption; this was followed by a special runway walk featuring adoptable dogs and rescued pups wearing their signature yellow kerchiefs as well as ties and coats provided by Barker & Meowsky and Tanner & Dash. PAWS volunteers as well as board members stole the show with their four-legged friends: Participating designers and boutiques included Mark Roscoe Designs, Gary Gonzalez, Just Human (designer Yemonja Smalls), Akira (owner Jon Cotay), Sahar Dada, Cleon’s Clothing Co., Studio Alade (designer Funkside Eniola), Meekis, Contessa Bottega (owner Contessa Helena), Cory Tran, Fraley Le and Mira Couture. This event was produced by Rose Mandel (Mandel Productions) with Associate Producer Marco Foster with PR support and so much more from Margaret O'Connor (Marcon Communications). A dynamic host committee featured some of our town's most notables such as Rosemary Fanti, Corri McFadden, Toni Canada, DC Crenshaw, Ava Anthony, Emma Arnold, Deborah Brown, Cindy Burns, Julie Lampert, Rita George, Lynn McMahan, Katie McLenaghan, Paul Iacono, Micah Materre, Jennifer Sutton, Alicia Roman, Kelli Zink, Billy Dec, Jessica Zweig, Erica Bethe Levin, Jon Cotay, Tyrone Farley, Deborah Goodman, Attila Gyulai, Zingha Hester, Catie Keogh, Michi Marshall, Kristina McGrath, Kerry Shorr, Sally Shorr, Crystal Peters, Arabel Alva Rosales and Sherren Leigh. Special thanks Nevena Zee and Tania Gilbert (artistic directors Custom Hair Lounge & Spa), Brenda Arelano (makeup team artistic director), Joseph and Shawna House (fashion show stylists), Siamonto Etian (Sounds AVL), Laura Bee (soundtrack engineer and event DJ), Robert Sivek (set design), Alison Libby (fashion show video), Paul Latza (videographer) and so many others! A portion of the proceeds benefited PAWS Chicago. For more info on adoptions and the work of PAWS, please visit pawschicago.org. See ALL the of the fun on my Watch312.com video below! (Fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, Amie Hana and Jon Recano…view more event pics here!)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=FoNmhrNjrBXGC3MXvyuk-ucx-udh4LRi&version=2

Luxury Management (LUX MGT) celebrated Chicago’s eighth annual Fashion Focus week by staging a dramatic runway presentation of Maison De LaCour’s latest collections to benefit the American Cancer Society on October 16th. Staged inside Chicago’s breathtaking historical gem, The Murphy Auditorium, LUX MGT’s “The Immaculate One” fashion event also made a dream come true for one young girl battling cancer. Nine-year-old cancer survivor Alyssa’s wish to walk in a real fashion show became a reality Tuesday night when she stole the show – and hearts – with her courageous debut on the runway in a Madison and Friends boutique dress. Edrop-off’s Corri McFadden, Dose Market’s founder April Francis and KISS FM host Angi Taylor introduced Alyssa and emceed the showcasing of Maison De LaCour’s new ready-to-wear line (MDLC), as well as LaCour’s Spring 2013 collection. Models, choreographed by Yana German, strutted down the runway in a kaleidoscope of shimmering sheaths, bold prints, eye-catching hair sculptures by Salon VANITE’ Paul Mitchell Focus Salon and makeup by LaCOUR BEAUTE’. The intermission featured a professional modern ballet performance set to the music of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Sugar Hills Bakery provided all guests with delectable desserts and Russian Standard Vodka sponsored the pre-show VIP cocktail reception. Ricardo Sebastian founded LUX MGT as part of a college project to raise money for non-profits through event planning in 2008. Since then, LUX MGT has raised well over $600K for both not-for-profit and for-profit companies. Sebastian was nominated as one of “The Top 75 Up-and-Comers” by the Chicago Innovation Awards. Refinery 29 and Windy City Times listed him as one of this year’s “30 Under 30.” Congrats to all on this fabulous night of fashion for such a wonderful cause!

The nation is abuzz with talk of politics and, recently, Chicago’s own Jerry Lasky hosted a lavish buffet upstairs at Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse at a private viewing party for the vice presidential debate. The high powered get-together, that included Republican Congressman Joe Walsh and wife Helene, featured a viewing of the 90-minute debate by 30 politically-active friends who included Bruce Wirtz MacArthur, Patrick Donelly, Dr. John McMahan, Rick Canada, Ron Allen, Jay Gottlieb, Jonathan Bross, Lawrence Ryan, Bill Smithburg, comedian Tom Dreesen, Michael Ferro, John Lynch, Steve Stratton, David Smith, Bill Waldrop and Dan Uslan among others. May the best man win!

And speaking of politics, what a thrill it must’ve been for Ivory Reason Carson, the nephew of National Public Housing Museum’s Executive Director Keith Magee, when he met the POTUS! The President rubbed Ivory’s little head and told him, “One day, you will be president, too!” Awww…talk about inspiration! Loved this story! Congrats to little Ivory on his BIG intro! We love Uncle Keith!

What a thrill and what a coup for RL Restaurant and manager Rich Varnes! On Wednesday, October 24th, Oprah Winfrey taped a segment for her show at her “favorite spot” with Justin Bieber! The crowds were off the hook outside the restaurant where beloved waiter Scott McLellan had the honor of waiting on them all inside! The segment will air on November 25th on “Oprah’s Next Chapter” on OWN.

Ronald McDonald House Charities’ “Eat Global, Give Local” event attracted more than 150 people to Carnivale Restaurant recently for a night of charity, socializing and wonderful food from some of our top local chefs. The restaurant is gorgeous, as you know, and designer / restaurateur Jerry Kleiner was on hand greeting guests and sampling dishes from Frontier’s Chef Brian Jupiter (who served delicious milk braised pork shoulder with pistachio cornbread doused in pumpkin bacon gravy!), Davanti’s Chef Creon Mallett (who served roasted squash faro with goat cheese and apple cider reduction), Carnivale’s Chef David Dworshak, Café des Architectes’ Chef Gregg Biggers, Quay’s Chef Dan Marquis and SmallBar’s Chef Justin White among others. Jim DeMaria, Senior Director of Development & Marketing for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, spoke about the importance of the house and encouraged guests to volunteer. Another recent RMHCCNI event was hosted at the Hotel Lincoln’s J. Parker Hotel by dynamic Women’s Auxiliary Board members MaryAnne Smith (WB President and Coach Lovie’s adorable wife), Lesley Prizant Goodman and Carol Beitler. The night included some well-known faces like Heather Farley Ingram, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, John McKinnon, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Sheryl Dyer, Bill Chunowitz and many others. If you haven’t had a chance to visit the House, please check out this video and see what all of this fundraising is for! (Check out more pics here!)

The Paul Stuart townhouse at 107 E. Oak St. was full of friends and fans on October 18th to congratulate its handsome hosts and Brand Ambassadors, Christopher Clinton Conway (Executive Director of the Joffrey Ballet), Marc Brooks (Park 52 owner) and Jason Berngard (Gilt City curator). The occasion was to celebrate Paul Stuart’s collaboration with Esquire Black Book to introduce the Phineas Cole Fall/Winter 2012 Collection, Paul Stuart’s new line of contemporary men’s clothing. On hand for the evening was Phineas Cole designer Ralph Auriemma, who debuted the new collection and mingled with more than 100 stylish attendees. Guests mingled, shopped and enjoyed beer from local Chicago brewery Goose Island, spirits by Maker’s Mark, and water from Smartwater. Notable Chicago attendees included CBS’s Ryan Baker, Blue Chicago Media Group’s Ryan Jeffries, D.C. Crenshaw, Eric McKissack, Maggie Morgan, Tom Shure, Helen Melchoir, Ken Norgan and Arnie Becker. Jazz guitarist Kyle Asche played throughout the evening featuring a mix of jazz, rock and pop music. The evening concluded with guests receiving gift bags with complimentary collar stays from Paul Stuart and a special holiday treat from Maker’s Mark. Awwwwww, so sweet! Congrats to these handsome brand ambassadors and welcome Phineas Cole!!! To see more of the collection, please click here and to view more pics, please click here!)

It was a thrill to emcee cool jazz artist Zemrah’s “Here’s to Life” concert on Sweetest Day (how appropriate!) at Prairie State College Auditorium Theater on October 20th. Zemrah has been performing and perfecting her musical style since childhood, beginning in the church choir to opening for her favorite artist, Nancy Wilson. The night also celebrated the launch of her debut CD, “Irresistible Zemrah” and, from the audience response, she certainly is irresistible! Produced by longtime musical director Syd Brown, the show also included unforgettable performances by the Impression’s Reginald Torian, who was decked out head-to-toe in black leather. (Meow!) He debuted a new song that he will be singing with the group on the Impression’s farewell tour and dedicated it to his lady love, N’Digo’s Hermene Hartman. It was such a touching moment and, since I was sitting next to her, one she did not expect! He even gave her a rose…it was a very special moment on a night filled with great moments and I was so excited to be there! Guest artist and one of the most charismatic men I’ve met, Marcus Gentry, also performed. He sang solo and then, for the finale, appeared in the entranceway in a bright yellow jacket singing “At Last” with Zemrah…the crowd went wild and when they slow-danced onstage together, it was magic. She had a great crowd of admirers who never wanted to leave after the show and stayed late to have their pics taken with her and to buy her CD. Zemrah will be performing two shows at Close-Up 2 Contemporary Jazz Club (located at 416 S. Clark St.) every Thursday beginning November 8th. Don’t miss this dynamic entertainer who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside!

And now for some much deserved congrats! First up, I just love The HAUTE Spot and, apparently, I’m not the only one! Congrats on winning TimeOut Chicago’s 2012 Best Consignment Shop honor!!! Visit their fabulous River West showroom and see why!

Huge congrats to beloved designer Nate Berkus on his recent book signing at Jayson Home & Garden! His gorgeous book, “The Things That Matter,” is not your typical how-to, should-do book on home design but rather a fresh take on what makes you the happiest in your home, and THOSE are the “things that matter.” This book would make a fantastic holiday gift for ALL of your friends! Click here to buy and congrats Nate! Everyone loves YOU!

The Junior League of Chicago will be hosting its annual fundraiser on Friday and Saturday, November 16th and 17th at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Randolph. This Gazebo Holiday Market always has a broad selection of gifts and is a perfect place to start your holiday shopping. Come to the “Martinis & Mistletoe” preview party on Friday night and have an exclusive first look while enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music, raffle prizes and more! (For tickets and more info, please click here!

I can’t wait for Luxury Garage Sale’s Grand Opening on Wednesday, November 7th at 1658 N. Wells St., in Old Town (my ‘hood!). Darling owners Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal are hosting an evening of mixing, mingling, shopping and champagne while viewing “the city’s most refined collection of consignment couture and accessories.” For more info, please call 312.291.9126 or visit www.luxurygaragesale.com. I’ll see YOU there!

Join Chicago Home + Garden Magazine's third annual Chairs for Charity event on Wednesday, November 7th from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Cosentino Center located at 1060 W. Division St. as they auction off vintage chairs given new life by Chicago's top designers. Get exclusive access to 15 one-of-a-kind chairs from Francine Turk, Soucie Horner, Erik Kolacz, Lance Lawson, Michele Fitzpatrick and more. While bidding on your favorite chairs, enjoy delicious hors d'oeuvres by Texas de Brazil and complimentary beer by Peroni and wine provided by City Winery. Tickets are $35. Auction proceeds and a portion of ticket sales will benefit The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS. (For tickets and more info, please click here!)

If you love sushi in a cozy, fun-filled environment, then check out Sushi-O-Sushi at 346 W. Armitage: Chef Andy makes everyone feel like they’re family!! I just love this spot and you will, too!

Thanks so much for checking in and I hope you’re enjoyed this week’s edition! Please follow me on Facebook (Candid Candace) and Twitter (@CandidCandace) and see what’s HAUTE in the Windy City!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. It’s great to see Hef is still having fun and that his Halloween parties still rock…and author Margie Wilson-Mars tells all right here! (Who knew Holly was pregnant and see who the surprise guest was!)

Tag Archives: Sugar Hills Bakery

WVON CELEBRATES 50TH WITH STAR-STUDDED RED CARPET GALA (VIDEO!)

SUSAN G. KOMEN CHICAGO GALA HONORS PINK TIE GUYS!

Join RSS Feed

Follow Candace!