Tag Archives: Susanna Negovan

May 22, 2013 · 1:27 pm

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!
 

1 - Michael Reid, Nicole Prusinski, Dr. Michael O'Meara, Margaret O'Connor, Chelsea Cwiklik, Edward Harrington (all Chicago) - photo by Jon RecanaMaxim’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
2 - Stanley Paul, Hazel Barr, Laurie Davis, Sherrill Bodineinvitation 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
3 - Jacqui and Lorenzo StranoAustralia! 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
Pierre Desy, Jan Melk, Joan Colmar, Michel Desjardinssaid 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
5 - Lily Gulik, Kevin & Janine Larsonwas “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
6 - Bill Zwecker,Nathalie Lavoie, Steve Traxler, Cynthia OlsonDaisy 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
7 - Glenn Murray, Cynovia Pottsstriking 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
9 - Jason & Katie Mclenaghan, Edward Harringtonparked 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
8 - Hazel Barr, Joey Majumdarclassic 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
10 - WilliamHoldeman,Paul IaconoDonohue & 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
11 - Shanya Sutton, Jenny Guoepic 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
12 - Joey Majumdar, Debi Lily, Sacha Amarohors 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
13 - Designer Mark Roscoeto 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
14 - Megan Jasin, Carri PhillipsMay 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
15 - Meghan Bested, Katherine Marley, Ben HandfeltAustralian 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
16 - Theresa Thomas, Korynn Christunas, Lauren CurrieAnderson, 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
18 - JulianneGlatz,JohnDonahuemarried!), 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
17 - Joe Hussar, Greg Gulik, Tony Fatlin, Cory WhiteParisian 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.)
 

1 - Glam models wearing Tiffany jewels at Gatsby premiereTiffany & 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.
2More 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
3 - Ellen Sandor, Eda Davidman and Jean de St. Aubinthe jewels are from Tiffany & Co.’s famed 2013 Blue Book Collection. Featured statement pieces from the Collection included The Savoy, a diamond and
3freshwater 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
4 - Spiro Megremis and Cindy Burnsincluded 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!)
 

1It 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,”
2 - Co-chairs Stephanie Sick (L) and Roopa Weber (2nd from R) with Laura and Kate Mulleavyarguably 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
3 - Creatures of the Wind's Shane Gabier, Chris Peters and Michael WallsMillennium Park on May 3rd! The Legend of Fashion honor went to sisters Laura and Kate Mulleavy, award-
4 - Kim and David DeJesuswinning 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,
5 - Interviewing Swarovski's Nicole Green and team in a GORGEOUS Swarovski necklace!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
6 - Chloe Park designHeart 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!
7 - Candy wrapper headgear!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
8 - Todd and Sylvie Rickettsalways 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,
9 - Interviewing Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra and Tommy WaltonAJ 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
10 - Designers and their musesLaPietra. 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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1 - Beautiful Raquel Pomplun PMOY 2013Congrats 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
2 - Playmate group shot at PMOY luncheonthe 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
3 - Playmate Dianne Chandleron 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
4held 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
5 - Raquel with her family, friends and husband Alejandrodon’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
6 - Raquel beside the Jaguar with Mansion in backgroundsuit 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
8 - Cooper and Hef introduce Raquelthe 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
9 - Carrie Yazel, Peggy McIntaggart, Jeana Tomasino, Michele Drake and Louann Fernalddays 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
10 - Crystal and Hef share a quiet moment at the luncheonlooked 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
11 - Raquel Pomplunlittle 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
12 - Keith Hefner and wife Caya Ukkasremembered 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
14 - Raquel thanks fellow PMs for being so welcoming at PMOY luncheonthe 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).
Patti McGuire (Connors) poses beside her PMOY car - a 1977 Dodge Midnight ChargerCongrats 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!

 


Lynne Jordan and Liza Minelli Liza, will you be thereIf 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)


WahfrontThe 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
2 - Vasiliki Weiden, Charlotte Monhart, Kevin Bell, Peggy Swift White and Jennifer CarusoWomen’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
3 - Dana Snodgrass, Emily Young and Annessa Staabof 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.) 
 

FLEUROTICA2013Fleurotica 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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Blue MasqueThe 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.)
 

1 - Winning Team 3 - Chef Oscar Castro, Hasan Rizvi, me, David Brandt and Kirsten ChylakThanks 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
2 - Chef Stephen Henry congratulates participantscomfort 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
Executive Chef Stephen Henry, Chef Oscar Castro and Chef David Perez in the Control Room of the Palmer House kitchensthey 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
David Brandt with the winning dish!(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!!
4 - Sarah Stein, Erica Ellis and Kelly LohanAlso, 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!)
 

1 - Birthday girls Kristina McGrath, Lynn McMahan and Korinna IsselhardtAnd 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-
2 - With Jan Flanagan, Lynn McMahan, Michaela Parrillo, Tracy Scurto, Nina Mariano and Toni Canadainside-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!

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April 4, 2013 · 11:59 am

COMMON’S ‘UN-COMMON’ STAR-FILLED FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ELDA’S ODE TO SPRING; BLUE MASQUE BALL; GIORDANO DANCE CHICAGO CELEBRATES 50; JENNY MCCARTHY’S “RESCUE OUR ANGELS”; ART INSTITUTE’S “NIGHT HEIST”; COOL, CHRIS AND FLORIDA PARTY IN MIAMI; JOE’S BAR WINS BIG; ULTA BEAUTY’S CARRIE AND MOLLY PARTY WITH NAOMI, KAROLINA AND NIGEL; PALM BEACH POLO ANYONE?; WONKA BALL; PUPPY MILLS BE GONE!; TEA AND FASHION WITH SARAH WOOD; MY TOP EVENT PICKS ON WGN-TV; A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!  
 

1 - Magic, the Mayor and CommonIt was no wonder the Common Ground Gala was a sell-out at the Four Seasons on March 23rd! Who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders – or even be in the same room – with the legendary Earvin “Magic” Johnson and rapper-turned-actor-turned-author Common (aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn)? I was so excited to be covering this major event for my
2 - Milo Dodson, Magic, Common and Lamman Rucker with CGF Dreamers and Believers Summer Camp KidsWatch312.com show “Candid Candace Chicago” but was a bit surprised that there wasn’t more press in attendance for the VIP red carpet portion of the event. Mind you, I’m not complaining and in reality, this was reserved for the night’s honorees so I know they wanted to keep this
3 - Red Carpet VIPsportion of the evening manageable. I was also surprised to see Magic Johnson not only arrive on time for the red carpet interviews but to arrive FIVE MINUTES EARLY! No wonder this guy is such a success: Besides being a Hall of Fame
4 - Magic offering his BIG auction packagebasketball player and able to play every single position on the court, his business acumen is legendary. Presented by Coca-Cola, this third annual event honored Magic, Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas, Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand and raised over $350,000. This colorful and inspiring group of honorees was selected based on their
5 - Common’s mother, Dr. Mahalia Ann Hine and Common (after Magic raised $100K in live auction!)service, impactful lives and unprecedented career success. Though honoree Gabby Douglas was unable to attend, she sent a video expressing how thrilled she was and concluded playfully with energetic footage of her family and friends doing the Harlem Shake. Emceed by ABC 7’s Cheryl Burton and actor Lamman Rucker, the event was exciting from
6 - Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo with Commonbeginning to end but perhaps the most breathtaking moment came when Magic raised more than $100,000 with a live auction package he donated in the first few minutes of the event. Cheryl Burton started off the bidding at $20K for seven floor seats to a Laker’s game, seven signed throwback jerseys and a private dinner with Magic. It sold three times for $90K with Magic adding
7 - Co-host Lamman Rucker and Commonanother $10K for an even $100K donation! WOW, right? Honorees Quintin and Diane Primo and Tim Rand and Everett Rand graciously accepted their awards and pledged their support to the Common Ground Foundation’s Summer Youth Camp. They praised
8 - Red Carpet Host and NBC reporter, Michele Relerford and CGF Gala event planner, Erika JordanCommon, highlighting his authenticity and commitment, noting how truly “uncommon” he is. Six teens from the Common Ground Foundation’s “Dreamers and Believers Mentoring Program” spoke movingly about how important and life changing the summer camp and year-round mentoring has been for each of them.
9 - The Four Seasons BallroomAll proceeds from the black tie event benefited Common’s non-profit organization, the Common Ground Foundation (CGF). Additional attendees included Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Jim Reynolds (Loop Capital), co-chairs Les Coney (Mesirow Financial) and Juanita Jordan (Vanoy Jordan Enterprises), red capet host Michelle Releford (NBC 5), Andre Johnson (Magic Johnson Enterprises), Melody Spann-Cooper (WVON), Andrea Zopp (CEO, Chicago Urban League),  Nina and Bob Mariano, Jeanne
10 - CGF guestsSparrow (co-host WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning”), Marc Brooks, Terri
11 - Common and CGF Exec. Director Tamara BrownMariano, Tamara Brown and Derek Dudley among many others. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction reception (with a highlight being an ALL-access trip to the Grammys), live performance by Chicago Soul Centric (featuring Aziza Lisa), dinner and dancing. The evening was followed by an after-party at the Hard Rock Hotel.


12 - Honorees Everett Rand and Timothy Rand with CommonIn order to pay homage to honorees that have achieved success all while impacting communities in a significant way, the Common Ground Foundation began hosting the gala in an effort to highlight the accomplishments of key influencers and help fund the organization. Last year’s
13 - With darling WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” co-host Jeanne Sparrowevent honored legendary and famous activist and actor Harry Belafonte as well as executive vice president of the Boeing Corporation James A. Bell, Chicago Bear and youth advocate Israel Idonije and CEO and founder of MillionDollar$cholar Derrius Quarles. “I started the Common Ground Foundation because I wanted to help, most of all to help people help
14 - Interviewing Magic and Common for Watch312themselves. I always believed if we started with the youth, then we would be planting the seeds for our future to blossom,” says Common. Love this guy! To learn more about this incredible organization, please click here! To see ALL of the fun from this wonderful night, please watch my video below! Magic and Common give some great advice to Chicago’s youth and Magic tells us just what he thinks about Chicago so let me take YOU to the party!

 


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1 - Designer Elda de la Rosa surrounded by fansBeloved designer Elda de la Rosa presented her 2013 Spring collection, titled “La Vie en Rose,” on March 19th in the Avenues Ballroom of the beautiful Peninsula Hotel. Elda had been working hard for months getting her beautiful designs
2 - Pretty coming AND going!ready for the runway and her hard work paid off as the SRO crowd oohed and aahed for every model who sashayed down the salon-style runway. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions’ Tracy Tarantino, the event’s host committee included Jean Antoniou, Toni Canada, Diana Palomar, Dusty Stemer, Tracy, Tasia June Travlos, Moira Tuffy and
3 - Host committee members and supportersMarsha Brenner. Elda’s honorary committee included many politicos including Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Senator Heather Steans, State Rep Kelly Cassidy, Aldermen Patrick O’Connor and Harry Osterman and Committeewoman Carol Ronen. ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez, a longtime friend of Elda’s, served as emcee wearing a stunning blue Elda gown. I was thrilled to be a model along with Greg Hyder, Jean Antoniou, Diana Palomar, Patricia Gillman,
4 - As pretty on the inside as it is on the outside!Moira Tuffy, Nancy Meyerson, Kathy
5 -Tracy Tarantino, Frances Renk and Sheryl DyerBurke and Minister Blaine Moulton. The evening began with a silent auction and reception in the Grant Park Room. At 8 p.m., the show began in the ballroom with Sylvia welcoming the crowd. She introduced Chanel style consultant Randolph Tovar who talked about his fashion inspirations and how style influences us. Then, the lights dimmed and the classic French song by Edith Piaf, “La Vie en Rose,” began to play. Sylvia repeated a line from the song, “When he takes me in his arms and speaks softly to me, I see life in rosy hues, he tells me
6words of love, words of every day and, in them, I become something.” She went on to say, “A woman who wears Elda de la Rosa does indeed ‘become
7 - Elda de la Rosa Spring 2013something,’ something very special, gorgeous, beautiful and radiant.” And then the show began!  Every woman was a star as she glided down the runway in her Elda creation. The finale was the gorgeous wedding gown worn by Jordan Stemer at her recent nuptials. All of the proceeds from the event benefited the programs and work of the Edgewater Development Corp., an organization dedicated to working with Chicago’s small business entrepreneurs. Congrats again Elda on a beautiful collection! (Photos by Caitlin Saville Collins and David Stephens…view more here!)
 

1 - Honorary Chairs Tom and Susanna NegovanThe Greek America Foundation presented its second annual Blue Masque Ball, a fundraising event to benefit charities in debt-stricken Greece, at the Blackstone Hotel on March 16th. This year’s honorary chairs
2 - Constantine Maroulis and glam friendwere Emmy Award-winning journalist Tom Negovan and his wife, Splash editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, Susanna Negovan. The couple brought years of support to local charities of the Greek America Foundation and Susanna was excited to support and honor her Greek heritage. The entire ballroom was transformed into a casino gaming floor with blackjack, craps and roulette tables dotting the room. All proceeds
3 - Jane Monzures and fab friendfrom the ball, which brought together the best of traditional Greek Mardi Gras celebrations in Casino Royale style, benefited Project Hope for Greece. This is a new initiative launched by the Greek America Foundation to support a
4wide range of accredited charity-driven institutions in Greece that are struggling to solve the problems of its people amidst the country’s worst economic crisis since World War II. Proceeds will be shared with various charities and organizations that have a proven track record of offering support to the country. Ellison Sunglasses CEO Aristotle Loumis served as the Young Professionals Chair.  Celebrity guests included Constantine Maroulis of “American Idol” fame and
5 - Christos Garkinos (2nd from L), Amanda Puck (R) and friendsnow performing in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde”; Christos Garkinos of
8Decades and BravoTV’s new reality show “Dukes of Melrose” who was joined by Amanda Puck;  Evangeline Goutelas of CITE Restaurant and Skyline Equities and Paula Fasseas of PAWS Chicago. DJ John Grammatis kept the lounge jumpin’ with nonstop music and
6 - Beautiful revelersdancing. Founded in 1997, the Greek America Foundation’s mission is to “promote, preserve and perpetuate Greek culture, history and heritage in North America.” For more info on this wonderful non-profit, please visit greekamerica.org. Congrats Susanna and Tom!

 


1 - Giordano Dance Chicago Giordano Dance Chicago celebrated its BIG 50th anniversary at the Harris Theater with a Gala Benefit (presented by the Boeing Company) on March 23rd. Pam Crutchfield served as honorary chair for this
2 - Kip Helverson and Nan Giordanospecial event, with choreographer to the stars Liz Imperio serving as artistic chair. The benefit drew 275 people and raised $100,000 for GDC and their programs. VIP gala ticket holders began their evening with an intimate pre-show
3 - Irwin and Harriet Ross and friendbackstage Signature Experience, including an in-the-wings champagne toast while viewing the final last-minute on-stage dancer preparations, followed by a backstage buffet dinner and conversation with artistic
4 - ason McLenaghan, Paul Iacono, Katie McLenaghan, Cindy Burns, JoeAnna LaCourse, Kip Helverson, Neal Steinerdirector Nan Giordano, Crutchfield and Imperio. As a special treat, they also had the chance to be part of “Circle,” GDC’s inspirational pre-performance ritual, moments before the dancers took the stage. The performance featured the
4 - David Helverson and Alana Helverson-Klimkowskipremiere of Imperio’s “La Belleza de Cuba” plus works from the GDC critically-acclaimed repertoire. Each work was preceded by video introductions, created by HMS Media from recent and archival GDC video and photos, providing historical content and
5 - Sanjay Sharma (L) and friendsilluminating the company’s extraordinary achievements. At 9:30 p.m., following the performance, gala attendees were escorted to the Pritzker Pavilion stage where they took in the dazzling view of Chicago’s Millennium Park nighttime skyline
6 - Giordano Dance’s Martin Ortiz Tapia and friendwhile mingling with GDC dancers and alum, enjoying an exquisite buffet catered by Cork Catering and Special Events and listening to live music by the George McRae Trio. “We knew this golden anniversary celebration was going to be special but on so many levels the results far
6exceeded our expectations,” says GDC artistic director Nan Giordano. “A lion’s share of the credit goes to our incredible benefit chairs and committee, who, along with our hardworking staff, selflessly poured their heart and soul into
7 - Nan Giordano being congratuledthis event. We are extremely grateful to everyone who joined us for this evening, the memory of which is something I will remember and cherish forever. It was an incredible tribute to my late father, Gus Giordano, and all who have supported us
8throughout our 50 years.” GDC is one of the longest running professional dance companies in Chicago and one of the very few dance companies in the U.S. to have achieved this half-century milestone. This achievement was recognized on the cover of the March 2013 edition of Dance Magazine.

 

1 - The Doyle family with Jenny McCarthy Televions star, model, actress and hometown girl Jenny McCarthy hosts the 6th Annual Rescue Our Angels event to support her nonprofit Generation Rescue, raise awareness of autism and generate funds to support families dealing with an autism diagnosis. McCarthy – whose son Evan has recovered from autism – is president of Generation
2Rescue and an advocate for children with autism and their families. The exclusive party will feature red carpet arrivals for VIP guests, remarks by McCarthy honoring Chicago couple Michele and Pete Doyle (founders of the event) and an “experience zone” – a hands-on way for guests to better understand the sensitivities that children on the autism spectrum experience. In addition to McCarthy, more than 400 VIP guests are expected to be in attendance, including Jacqueline and Chris Laurita (“Real Housewives of New Jersey”), Doug
3 - Michelle and Pete Doyle and familyClerget (“The Bachelorette”), Alexis Wineman (2013 People’s Choice Winner, Miss America), Colette Davis (open wheel driver), Heath Frisby (X Games snowmobile medalist) and Madi Wolf (singer). Tickets to the event are $100 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, entertainment and access to a live auction of incredible prizes. A limited number of VIP booths are available for purchase, too. For tickets, visit rescueourangels.com or click here.


Art Institute Night Heist logoThe Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago’s annual fundraising event, “Night Heist”, returns for its third year to the Modern Wing’s Griffin Court on April 26th from 8 to 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Art Institute’s major exhibition Picasso and Chicago – a celebration of the work of Picasso, his connections to the city and his enduring influence. Event includes live music, entertainment, themed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. General admission tickets are $95 (price to increase after 4/19) and the VIP Night Heist Experience (includes a one-hour reception beginning at 7 p.m.) is $150. For tickets and more info, please click here! 


1 - Cool with his birthday cakeRecently, Chris Brown, FloRida and Hennessy V.S put on a show at Dream nightclub in Miami, all to celebrate the birthday of super producer Cool, from Cool & Dre. Chris Brown hit the stage and performed a slew of his hits including, “Look At Me Now” and “No Bullsh*t.” The singer put on a complete show, showcasing his
2 - Chris Brown and his abs performingsignature dance moves and even showing off his rock hard abs. Rapper FloRida also hit the stage to celebrate Cool’s birthday and even helped lead the crowd in a “Happy Birthday” chant for the producer. Cool, huh? 🙂 (Photos by Humberto Cruz…view more pics here!)


Randolph St Market April adChicago Vintage Market pioneer Sally Schwartz is thrilled to announce Randolph Street Market’s Modern Vintage Chicago spring installation will return to the West Loop’s Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) on April 20th and 21st. Recognized as one of the top three vintage shows in the country, this bi-annual event comes just in time to add vintage flair to spring and summer wardrobes that will turn heads! Offering the
Modern Vintage Chicago-Randolph St. market adbest selection of jewelry, clothing and accessories vendors from across the Midwest, as well as Atlanta, NYC, Texas, Minneapolis and Philadelphia for men and women, this event is not to be missed! Among its 90+ vendors, new to the Market this year is the talented, Danielle Colby of “American Pickers” fame. Danielle will bring her vintage wares from her Wicker Park boutique, 4 Miles 2 Memphis, as well as perform with her burlesque troupe, Burlesque Le’Moustache. For more info, visit modernvintagechicago.com, call 312-666-1200 or email info@modernvintagechicago.com.
 

1 - Cellist Ian Makin and Marisa BuchheitThe SPRING AWAKENING Fashion Show didn’t herald the advent of spring but it did provide a beautiful night inside the warm greenhouse at City Escape Garden Center & Design Studio in the West Loop recently.
2 - Borris Powell and Jeff ConwayHosted by Benjamin Cottrell and Shari Duffy, this event offered VIP guests the opportunity to stroll the gardens during the champagne reception, shop City Escapes’ unique gifts and listen to the sound of Miss Heart Illinois 2013,
5 - Monika Wiela, Benjamin Cottrell and Shari DuffyMarisa Buchheit. The show opened with a performance by the Candid Concert Opera Company as models strutted the runway in designs by Stix & Roses, LH Couture, Tres Haute Chic, Just Class Jewelry and StyleUp Girl
8 - Models serenaded by Ian MakinShoes. World renowned cellist Ian Makin serenaded the models down the garden inspired runway. A portion of the proceeds benefitted Chicago Gateway Green. TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. (Photos by Jun Nagano.)

 

LogoCongratulations are in order for Joe’s Bar on Weed St. (940 W. Weed St) owner Ed Warm: His Chicago venue – known for hosting some of the biggest names in country music – has just been named Nightclub of the Year by the Academy of Country Music!!!
Ed WarmWarm, whose keen ear for emerging talent has earned him immense respect within the Nashville music scene, is also taking home honors as Promoter of the Year. (This is the third time Joe’s has been named Nightclub of the Year but the first win for Warm as Promoter of the Year.) Huge congrats on these much deserved wins! (The 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on April 7th).
 

1 - Ulta Beauty’s Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat with Nigel BarkerTalk about a dream job! ULTA Beauty Director of Public Relations Carrie Lannon and ULTA Beauty Director of Trend Development Molly Sloat partied with supermodel Naomi Campbell
3 - Karolina Kurkovaand Nigel Barker in New York during the filming of their hit show, “The Face.” (The finale episode was March 26th.) I sure hope to see this cool model driven show return soon! The show, hosted by Nigel Barker, followed three supermodel coaches (Coco Rocha, Karolina Kurkova and Naomi) as they
4 - Carrie Lannon and Molly Sloat at the premiere of “The Face”competed with each other to find “the face” of ULTA Beauty. Carrie and Molly worked with Nigel, Naomi, Coco and Karolina and appeared on the final episode as they chose the winner of the show: Twenty-one-year-old Devyn Abdullah from Team Kurkova became the first Face of
2 - Coco Rocha, Nigel Barker and Naomi CampbellUlta Beauty! She will appear in its ads, go to Fashion Week and make personal appearances in ULTA Beauty stores. Congrats to Devyn, Carrie and Molly! If you need an assistant, you know who to call! 


AntonioSabatoJrAnd now for some exciting news from Palm Beach! The USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship is a four-week, 26-goal tournament that will finalize its 10th Anniversary Season at the International Polo Club. The
LizAnnHamptonCallowayaction began on March 31st and will continue on April 7th, 14th and 21st, showcasing the world’s most elite, high-goal players and the finest polo ponies. As one can imagine, the celebrity line-up is impressive and will include heartthrob Antonio Sabato, Jr., Emmy Award winner Liz Calloway, actress Ann Hampton Callaway, American Idol’s Brooke Eden and a perfect “10”
BrookeEdenBo Derek.  Country music star Lee Greenwood will
LeeGreenwood1perform “God Bless the USA” before the final match on April 21st. This high-goal polo action takes place every Sunday through April 21st, with tickets starting at $10 for general admission and up to $120 for box seating. Tickets for the lavish Sunday brunch at The
BoDerekPavilion and its reception start at $65 going upward to $330 for the Veuve Clicquot brunch package for two. Tickets can be purchased online at InternationalPoloClub.com or by calling 561.204.5687. Anybody up for a few good chukkers? 🙂
 

Poster with 4 sponsors_800x615The Puppy Mill Project is proud to be honoring the “Mothers in the Mills” at their annual fundraiser on May 11th at John Barleycorn River North (149 W. Kinzie) from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The evening will raise awareness about the cruel and inhumane conditions that dogs endure in puppy mills. Chicago fan-favorite band, Out of Control, will perform, a buffet dinner will be served, and guests will enjoy a silent auction and live raffle. This benefit is held annually on Mother’s Day weekend to honor and bring attention to all female (mother) dogs held captive in the mills who are forced to breed until they are no longer profitable to the breeder. The mission of TPMP is to educate the public about puppy mills, while advocating for legislative reform and facilitating the rescue of mill dogs. “The proceeds from the Mothers in The Mills benefit will
Out of Control Bandeducate and expose the truth about this cruel and inhumane industry that people are unknowingly supporting when purchasing pets through pet shops, the internet and newspaper ads,” says founder Cari Meyers. “We will never stop fighting for the freedom of the mill dogs.” I wish them the best of luck. Tickets are $100 per person ($125 at the door) and can be purchased here. 
 

WonkaBall-2About Face Theatre celebrates its 17th year with a three-ring party of entertainment at the Wonka Ball 2013: Circus Maximus
Circusmaximus_WEB2-214x300on April 26th beginning at 8 p.m. (For those interested, a Ringmaster’s VIP cocktail party begins at 7 p.m.) AFT’s premier fundraiser, hosted by About Face board members Benjamin Sprunger and Billy Lullo, combines the surprising delights of the Big Top with
WonkaBall-4the inspired grandeur of this year’s venue, Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood). For tickets ($135) and more info, please visit aboutfacetheatre.com or call 773.784.8565.
 

Hats Off to the Girls We Love inviteDon’t miss “Hats Off to Girls We Love,” a tea and fashion presentation hosted by the dynamic Sarah Wood benefitting the Wood Family Foundation on April 27th at 2 p.m. at Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Author Cynthia Bardes will be a special guest. Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for kids up to age 12. For more info, please click here or call 312-924-9234. (And I can’t WAIT to tell you what Sarah and Kerry are planning for August! OMG! They are both heroes at giving back! 🙂


WGN segment 3-13Thanks so much to WGN-TV for having me on to discuss my FIVE top event picks for April! I won’t tell but hope you’ll watch it here! Thanks to my sweet friend Marissa Rudman for this clip – just love her!


1Don’t miss the latest edition of A Perfect Event’s E-Mag – Debi Lilly has done it again assembling the best of the best to contribute to her beyond beautiful magazine! I’m so proud to have an
2 - Nate and Nancy Golden before going to boarding schoolarticle (“Things Our Mothers Taught Us”) included! This Mother’s Day feature offers words of wisdom from the mothers of comedian Tom Dreesen,
3 - Tom Dreesen and his mom Glenore (Algoe) Dreesenphilanthropist and football star Israel Idonije, television star/author/designer Nate Berkus, super chef Art Smith, shoe god Brian Atwood and media darling Val Warner. I’m not one bit surprised why these special people became who they are – it’s advice everyone can use! Congrats to contributors Amanda Puck, Eric Himel, Matt Savage, Rosemary Fanti, Ryan Beshel, Elaina Vazquez and Corey Amaro, among others. ALL great reads here (my article appears on pages 26 & 27)!  And a special thanks
6 - My mom Elsa Mae Stott and me in a Rosemary Fanti drawingto friend/artist Rosemary Fanti for this wonderful image of my mom Elsa Stott and me in South Beach where some of our best memories happened! She was my best friend. 🙂 (Check out more pics here!)


With Shantell Jamison at VocaloAnd, last but not least, I was so thrilled to be interviewed on Vocalo/NPR radio by Shantell Jamison for her (ahem) “Wise Woman of the Week” segment…I know, I know. Hear it here, if you want!

Hope you all have spring in your hearts even if it isn’t here in reality and I hope you enjoy this week’s Candid Candace!
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

 

 


Amy Tara Koch, Molly Each, Jared Hatch, Greg Hyder, Kevin Aeh, JC Steinbrunner, Amalie DruryP.S. Congrats to the Peninsula Chicago and Greg Hyder on the fabulous party held in honor of Conde Nast Traveler’s special April feature, “The Grand Tour of Asia.” As always, it was a perfect event! (Want to see more pics? Just click here!)

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February 4, 2013 · 10:30 am

CHICAGO BEARS ISRAEL IDONIJE AND JERRY AZUMAH “LAUGH OUT LOUD” FOR CHARITY

…PLUS RICHARD DENT SHARES A SECRET, NORTHWESTERN STUDENTS’ EARTH SAVING PROJECT, CRYSTAL’S BIG HEART, NICOLE’S BRIDAL TIPS, A HOMETOWN DESSERT FIT FOR A PRESIDENT, PAMELLA AND DAN MAKE SOME PLANS, A SECRET PARTY (WELL, NOT ANYMORE!), THE LYRIC TAKES YOU TO PARIS, WOMEN DRIVING EXCELLENCE AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
1 - Co-hosts Jerry Azumah and Israel IdonijeA cold and rainy night didn’t keep the crowds from packing the house at the hot River North nightclub, Untitled, for the second annual Laugh Out Loud comedy show on January 29th. Chicago Bear Israel Idonije and former all-pro Chicago Bear Jerry Azumah teamed up to benefit 2 - Leon Rogerstheir respective charities for a night that included some of the top comedic talent around. Jerry’s charity, the Azumah Student Assistance Program (ASAP) Foundation, develops innovative and unique programs and charity events designed to raise funds for 3 - Glam girls at Untitleddisadvantaged students. Israel’s charity, the Israel Idonije Foundation, inspires underserved communities by providing 4 - Basketball great Antoine Walkerprograms focused on social and emotional life skills. Together, these great superstars created an evening that all those in attendance won’t soon forget. By the end of the night, my sides hurt from 5 - Ali Claytonlaughing so much at the show’s co-hosts WGCI’s Leon Rogers and Brian Babylon, along with featured comedians Damon Williams (of BET’s "Comic View" who also served as the opening act for the 6 - Kelley Speck (R) and cute friendlegendary Kings of Hollywood Comedy Tour), Adrienne Irmer (Perri’s darling daughter), Ali Clayton, Tony Scolfied, Ron Baker, Jr. (handsome brother of Ryan), Mitch Hurley, Erica Clark and Willie Lynch. The fun-filled 7 - Ron Baker, Jr.night began with a VIP reception in the club’s exclusive bar area behind the main stage. Here, guests got a chance to meet the hosts and mingle with the comedians as well as enjoy a fabulous buffet. I covered the event for 9 - Damon WilliamsCandid Candace Chicago (on Watch312.com) so stay tuned for all of the evening’s fun captured on video as well as great interviews with the hosts and the many sports stars in attendance. Seen on the scene were Antoine Walker, Trista Phillips, Jason McKee, 8 - Idonije Foundation’s Kendra Fogarty and Sharbel ShamoonKelley Speck, Erica Clark, Nina Chantelle, Les Coney, Alayna and DC Crenshaw, KISS-FM’s Angi Taylor and Saran Dunmore to name a few. To learn more about these wonderful charities, please visit www.israelidonije.org and www.theasapfoundation.org. Congrats Izzy and Jerry and thanks for all you do to make the world a better place. 🙂 (To see more pics from this fun-filled evening, please click here!)

 
1 - Richard Dent & Fred MitchellLegendary Chicago Bear, 1985 Super Bowl MVP and Class of 2011 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Richard Dent was the featured guest speaker at the Union League Club reception and luncheon held on January 29th. Richard was there to discuss his RJ, Shiloh & DeEtta Jonesbook, "Blood, Sweat & Bears," written with veteran Chicago Tribune sportswriter Fred Mitchell. After lunch, Fred interviewed Richard as he recounted stories in the book and playing football for the fiercest, most dominant defense in NFL history AND playing the game before violent helmet-to-helmet 3 - Richard giving his speech at Pro Football Hall of Fametackles were forbidden. He spoke about growing up in a family with nine kids and having a mother who did whatever it took to make ends meet. Richard asked the audience, “How many of you have seen the movie, ‘The Help’? That was my mom and she made the best 4 - Fred Mitchell, Margaret O'Connor, Sheila Dorman, Richard Dentbiscuits around.” Fred fielded questions from the crowd and as the luncheon came to a close, Richard shared this with the audience, “You are the first to know I will be carrying the Vince Lombardi trophy onto the field at Sunday’s Super Bowl game!” Two 5 - Richard and his son RJ at the premiere of The Karate Kidguests at the luncheon who sat with Richard and Fred at the Author’s table were Sheila Dorman (Sr. VP and COO of Northern Trust) and Margaret O’Connor (the producer of Richard’s pre-induction Hall of Fame celebration at Carnivale for 450 people). Sheila and Margaret also traveled to Canton, Ohio, for Richard’s induction into the Hall of 6Fame in August 2011. (Our beloved photog Steve Starr also made the trip and would be so pleased to know that his photograph of Richard’s children RJ and Shiloh and long-time girlfriend DeEtta Jones is in the book). To purchase "Blood, Sweat & Bears!", please click here!
 
1 - Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky congratulates NU studentsWater is one of the most important elements on earth and an exciting new documentary, “Water Pressures,” a film that features Northwestern University students and desert villagers in water-distressed Rajasthan, India, 3 - “Water Pressures” executive producer-director Bill Natalewill premiere on March 20th at the Wilmette Theater (1122 Central Ave).  Produced by Artistic Circles’ Ann Feldman, the film is hosted by "Entourage" star Adrian Grenier and directed  by Bill Natale (executive producer for Illinois Centers for Broadcasting and Watch312.com), 2 - On location in Rajasthan, Indiawho also served as the associate producer of the doc. The story demonstrates how understanding, education and collaboration can lead to sustainable solutions, particularly between developing and developed countries. Based on the relationships created by the documentary, Northwestern is now setting up a research site in the desert at the Jal Bhagirathi Foundation to study and 5 - Rajasthan, Indiaassist with desalination and water-related diseases. “Water Pressures” premiered at the Chicago 4 - NU students attend forum on global water crisis at NU CampusSouth Asian Film Festival, winning merit awards for a video for social change. It has been translated into Hindi with plans to be broadcast in India as well as on public TV stations nationwide beginning March 20. “Water Pressures” is presented by WTTW Chicago and will be nationally distributed by American Public Television. Enjoy this three-minute trailer and congrats to all involved for creating this eye-opening film!
 
Astrologer Jolie EvansI don’t know how many of you consult an astrologer from time to time but I have a wonderful woman who even gives readings over the phone based on your info! Jolie Evans has been in the business for a long, long time and her reading for me from last year was so precise that I just had to share her info with you! Anyone interested, please email jolieevans@live.com and tell her Candid Candace sent you! 🙂
 
Nicole Jacob DelehantyHuge congrats to one of my very favorite makeup artists, Nicole Jacob Delehanty! She is featured in this month’s issue of Town & Country Weddings, which showcases hair and makeup pros who travel to destination weddings. Anyone lucky enough to nab Nicole will certainly look her very best on her special day! Congrats to this gorgeous, Scan0001talented new mom who looks more beautiful than ever! Here are her five top tips for wedding makeup: 1.) Wear individual fake lashes, they draw attention to the eye 2.) Add shimmer to foundation for a natural luminous healthy glow, 3.) Enhance your features but don't mask your face with makeup, 4.) Bronzer is super important all the time – heathy color, and 5.) Light pink see through lip gloss is feminine and beautiful! (Unless of course you prefer Candid Candace Coral from CAMP Cosmetics, LOL!) For wedding makeup inquiries, please call Cathy at 312-961-6588 and to book appointments for makeup or brows, contact the Paul Rehder Salon at 312-943-7404. 

Hef and CrystalHef’s leading lady, Crystal Harris Hefner, is auctioning off her wedding dress from their nuptials in honor of Hef’s longtime and much-loved assistant, Mary O’Connor, who recently passed away. Given that Mary was responsible for helping H
ef and Crystal reconcile and eventually marry, Crystal has decided to put her pink, strapless, mermaid-style Romona Keveza gown up for auction along with her Aruna Seth pumps to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (This is the disease that recently claimed Mary’s life.) The auction ends February 11th. Click here to bid! What a loving gesture Crystal!
 
Dan and Pamella DeVos (Roland)Stylish fashion designer Pamella Roland – who has been the featured designer for The Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails – will be spending more time in Chicago and wants her husband Dan to stay busy! Daniel DeVos, son of billionaire Richard DeVos of Grand Rapids, Michigan, just opened a Ford Dealership west of McCormick Place at 2401 S. Michigan Ave. Since buying a home downtown, Pamella hopes to spend more time in the Windy City and we  couldn't be happier to hear this good news! Welcome to Chicago, Pamella and Dan!!
 
1 - The Schulmans and their Eli’s Cheesecake at the InauguralMore Chicagoans making a national impact include the delightful owners of Eli’s Cheesecake, Maureen and Marc Schulman: This year marks the fourth inaugural cake that Eli’s has been invited to create! Both of former 2 - Kori, Haley and Elana Schulman at the Inaugural Balls wearing LuLu’s at the Belle KayPresident Bill Clinton’s inaugurals and President Obama’s 2009 Commander-in-Chief Ball all had giant Eli’s cheesecakes! This year’s 500-pound creation was served at the Staff Ball after Tony Bennett 3 - Eli’s Executive Pastry Chef Laurel Boger places the Statue of Freedom atop the edible Capitol Dome (all chocolate chip cheesecake)and Lady Gaga performed. The President, First Lady, Vice President and Second Lady were also in attendance. Maureen says, “It was a cheesecake frenzy!” The cake also appeared on the Jumbotron much to the delight of the Schulmans! Also in attendance were Eli’s executive pastry chef 4 - Marc Schulman looks on as Inaugural CEO Stephen Kerrigan (front) and Inaug. Exec. Dir. David Cusack cut the cakeLaurel Boger (who decorated the big cake in the kitchen of the Washington Convention Center), Schulman daughters Haley, Kori and Elana (who all wore glam dresses and 5 - Pep rally with Eli’s bakers before the cheesecake left for Washington, DC.exquisite jewelry from LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, no doubt styled by its chic owner Laurie Davis). What a thrilling opportunity for this Chicago institution, Eli’s Cheesecake!! Congrats to Maureen, Marc and all the little Schulmans! 
 
Women Driving Excellence invite finalI’m so excited to be a featured speaker for Women Driving Excellence, an inaugural event at the Chicago Auto Show on February 12th. In celebration of "women who start, accelerate
, fuel and steer others to strive for excellence," MJ Tam and Beth Rosen (ChicagonistaLIVE social talk show), Monika Dixon, Debi Lilly, Elisa All, Jill Saltzman, Saya Hillman along with the Chicago Tribune, Red Eye and Cars.com will partner to co-host this exciting event. Featured speakers/honorees include Corri McFadden (eDrop-Off founder), Genevieve Thiers (founder of Sittercity.com), Luvvie Ajayi (AwesomelyLuvvie.com), Anupa Singla (Chicago Now blogger and former CLTV news broadcaster), Karen Weigert (City of Chicago Chief Sustainability Officer) and ME! 🙂 Giveaways will be offered throughout the event and will include iPad Minis, spa services, hotel stays and many more! The day’s thrilling activities will begin at 10 a.m. – to see all details and to RSVP, please click here! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
 

1 - With Sargent McCormick (2nd from R) with friends at Pump Room

With Sargent McCormick (2nd from R) with friends at Pump Room

I received a very unusual invite for the 108th Twelfth Night Masquerade. What the hell is this, you ask? I know, I asked myself the same question so I googled it: It turns out this is a very exclusive party (by invite only and, by this I mean only you and not your spouse or a plus-one which irritated me to no end). However, my natural curiosity got the best of me so I just had to go. From what I discovered, this event was founded in 1905 by Bill Gamble (of Procter & Gamble fame) and his high-society cohorts, who banded together to break up the doldrums of winter in Chicago by inaugurating the Widow & Widowers Ball. From the start, it was a party with an irreverent twist: Gamble and company drew up a list of all the couples in their social circles, decided which member of each couple they deemed the most fun and invited that person alone to attend the ball. By 1920, this rule was relaxed – no doubt because of the outrage from the other partner – and the name was changed to The Twelfth Night Masquerade. Billy Gamble died in 1921 but the party continues as his lasting legacy to Chicago social life. Twelfth Night 2 - Clemente Dadoo from the University of Chicago and Thomas Love from Northwesternhas been a fixture on the Chicago social calendar for more than a century and for many remains a family tradition with current guests, their parents and even their grandparents in attendance. In order to receive an invite, you must be known to the Committee of Twelve. Oh, and the evening was also a celebration of charming Sargent McCormick’s 30th birthday. 🙂 I could only attend the pre-party cocktail get-together at the Pump Room but the party hit its zenith later with 600 guests in costume in the Gold Coast Room of the Drake Hotel. No press allowed…oops, there goes next year’s invite! 😉 Their motto: Let good taste prevail to no avail. Their rule: No equestrians or mounted pedestrians. 
 
Ladybug_Bash_final-01-19-13I love this event that benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug.  On March 23rd, HGTV host and “hottie-with-a-heart” Dina Manzo will host the third annual Ladybug Bash to benefit Comer Children’s Hospital at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St. Tickets begin at $65 and will help raise awareness for this non-profit which aims to ease the struggles of childhood cancer. Please come out for the fun and be inspired by this great cause!
 
Lyric Save the DateThe Lyric Opera wants to take you to Paris! On February 9th, the Lyric will present the Fantasy of the Opera: Midnight in Paris. The Civic Opera house will be transformed into 1920’s Paris with the lower-level Opera Club morphing into the Moulin Rouge, the foyer and mezzanine levels will become the “Streets of Paris” with French gourmet Lyric venue scenesamplings and spectacles, the Cabaret will showcase stars of the Lyric’s winter productions performing non-opera repertoire and will include singers Jamie Barton, David Cangelosi, Elizabeth Futral, Amanda Majeski, Ana Maria Martinez, Lucas Meachem, Albina Shagimuratova and Andrea Silvestrilli. Event chairman Courtney Rosen (who will be wearing a chic gown by Atelier Azza) promises this will be a very unique experience! Dance music will be provided by big band Rendezvous! For tickets, beginning at $275 and more info, please click here! Ooh la la!
 
1 - Lynne Jordan sings Nina Simone wearing a chic gown by designer Reggie NewportCongrats to beloved cabaret star Lynne Jordan and her hot band, The Shivers!  Her sell-out show, which channeled Nina Simone, was a huge hit at City Winery last month and her recent show at Davenport’s, a tribute to Janis Joplin, was also a 2 - Lynne Jordan & the Shivers at City Winerysell-out! There's nothing this woman can’t sing and Roger Ebert said so in a recent tweet to his almost 800,000 followers! Don’t miss another show from this Chicago treasure!
 
Win black history eventThe Black History Month Innovation Panel will be hosted by the Women’s Innovation Network on February 19th at the International House at the University of Chicago. Panelists will include beloved PR queen Dori Wilson (Dori Wilson Public Relations), Jetta Bates (award-winning marketing expert and creator of JettaSetting), Makeba Kedem-Dubose (artist, curator and art educator) and Dawgelene Sangster (author and founder of Think Royally Inc.). Moderator, and another Chicago treasure, will be NBC’s LeeAnn Trotter. For tickets and more info, please click here.
 
2007 champion Dan PonceDancing with Chicago Celebrities is an annual star-studded charity ball presented by Arthur Murray to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. Over the last seven years, the ball has raised more than $800K which has been donated to deserving charities who champion this cause. The 8th Annual Dancing with Chicago Celebrities will take place March 8th Val Warnerat the Hyatt Regency and will include beloved WGN’s Dina Bair (I’ve seen this woman dance at Newsapalooza and I hope the other competitors are rehearsing NOW!), WBBM-TV’s Pam Jones, ’06 champion Chef Rick Bayless, ’12 MVP Kim Vatis (NBC5) and ’12 champion and former Chicago Bear Desmond Clark, NBC’s Stefan Holt, WGN’s Frank Holland, ABC’s Michelle Gallardo, Miss Illinois Megan Ervin, former Chicago Bear Anthony Adams and Christina Filiaggi (WLS-AM Radio 890). For tickets and more info, please click here! 
 
CFCA_775The Chicago Film Critics Association (CFCA) will celebrate its 24th annual Awards Show on February 9th at the Muvico Theaters in Rosemont, located at 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave. Nadine Velazquez and Joe Perillo will emcee and award-winning actress Jane Lynch will receive the Comedia Extraordinaire Award at 7:30 p.m. at the theater. Net proceeds will support the 2013 Emerging Film Makers Award for Columbia College Chicago film students. For tickets and more info, please click here!

 
Jenny McCarthyI love it that Playboy glamour girl and perpetually fit Jenny McCarthy (40!), loves Chicago’s delicious Giordano’s pizza…and stuffed pie at that! In a recent cover story article in Shape Magazine, she says she gets her Windy City fix by having it shipped to LA when Giordano's signshe craves a taste from home. She said, “There’s this place in Chicago called Giordano’s which has the best deep-dish pizza in the world. It’s my therapist, my best friend and my boyfriend on Friday nights.” I doubt that she’s ever very lonely but nice to know she loves one of Chicago’s many legendary institutions!
 
AdlerThe Adler Planetarium will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a reception hosted by new president Dr. Michelle Larson and chairman of the board, John Estey, on February 7th. The night under the stars will begin with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. in the Adler’s Sky Pavilion followed by a program honoring featured speaker and New York Dava SobelTimes best-selling author of “Galileo’s Daughter” Dava Sobel. Cynthia Ballew is event chair with co-chairs Nancy Temple (WB President), Linda Celesia, Caroline Becker Joss, Lisa Lewis, Erika Bartelstein, Pamela Pohl, Mihra Seta and Linda Gerstman. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.adlerplanetarium.org.)

 
Candid Candace Coral Lipstick-CAMP CosmeticsSpecial thanks to the Sun-Times Splash editor, and all-around great peep, Susanna Negovan for including my CAMP Cosmetics Candid Candace lipstick in Sunday’s fab section! This color is a great cure for the winter doldrums – hope you agree and buy it here!!! Me at Windy City Live(Wink wink!)
 
I’m so happy that Chicago’s social whirl has picked up! There's so much to do and so many great events planned! Tune into "Windy City Live" on February 25th, when I’ll share my top picks for March! 🙂
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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September 13, 2012 · 10:40 am

CHICAGO’S FASHION’S NIGHT OUT – FILLED WITH STARS & STYLE!

…PLUS MS. FOSTER’S "STELLABRATION," OLD TOWN "CRUSHES" IT (WITH A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO!), AN EVENING ON ASTOR, THE JOFFREY BALLET’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS, FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION BALL, THE 48TH CHICAGO FILM FEST’S BIG STARS, PAWS’ LUCK AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

Blog 1 - Joe Cutaia, Jessica Zweig, Erica Bethe Levin, Shannon Williams and Justin JacobsonFashion’s Night Out began in 2009 when Vogue editor Anna Wintour created the event to help retailers during the height of the recession. It has spread to 18 countries with 4,500 events across the U.S. alone and is now a two-week-long affair culminating on
Blog 2 - Bruce MacArthur, Ali Larter, Hayes MacArthur and Shelley MacArthur Farley at 900 ShopsSeptember 6th. Chicago’s FNO did not disappoint: “Fashion Police” star Kelly Osbourne kicked off the Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival (presented by MasterCard) on August 24th and it only accelerated from
Blog 3 - 900 Shops Marketing Mngr. Sarah Burrows with Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan, event sponsorthere with almost every store along the Mag Mile having some sort of exciting fashion event. Macy’s on State Street offered reality stars as its draw with Aviva Drescher of “The Real Housewives of New York” and Nzimiro Oputa of “Fashion Star” and Neiman Marcus offered up a runway presentation hosted by “House of
Blog 4 - Mich Mag’s JP Anderson and Alexi GiannouliasConsignment” star Corri McFadden. Saks Fifth Avenue’s party was hosted by Amanda Puck, Kimberly Burt, Kristina McGrath, Lauren Buxbaum, Lisa Frame, Lisa Sweitzer, Sam Saifer Berngard, Sherri Hoke and Susanna Negovan. Water Tower Place hosted an “In Fashion Lounge,” which featured a series of special workshops including a Gilt City Chicago Night, a culinary demo, a fall trunk show with
Blog 5 - Erica Strama, Allison Cooke, Jenny Polachek and Leah ChavieMichael Hill and an Akira footwear trunk show. Sarca – one of my favorite boutiques – hosted a daytime event that included styling tips from Rad and Refined and makeup applications by fashionable blogger Shannon O’Brien. Barneys New York donated 10 percent of sales to the Human Rights Campaign from 5 to 8 p.m. The streets were packed with
Blog 6fashion savvy guests who had raided their closets for their favorite pieces to wear to this round robin of events. The 900 Shops had a line a mile long of people anxious to get into the VIP Party to see gorgeous actress Ali Larter, who arrived with her hunky actor husband, Hayes MacArthur. (His
Blog 7 - Sally and Kerry Shorr, Jennifer Sutton and Katie McLenaghannew film, “Bachelorette” opened 9/7.) This is one busy, BUSY Hollywood couple with Ali’s book, “Kitchen Revelry” coming out soon. It’s not your
Blog 8 - Maggie Morgan (center) with mom and friendaverage cookbook: It embraces culinary mistakes! (Sounds like something for me…) She also just finished a movie called “Lovesick” with Matt LeBlanc, a romantic comedy about the delusions that come with falling in love. This busy couple was accompanied by Hayes’ parents, Bruce MacArthur and
Blog 9 - 900 Shops celebrity Host Ali Larter with Glossed & Found’s Graham Kostichis glam mother/chanteuse Shelley MacArthur Farley, whose husband, Bill, joined the group later. The 900 Shops teamed up with Michigan Avenue Magazine and McGrath Lexus and Acura for its second annual FNO themed “Fame, Fashion & Flavor.” Nearly 3,500 attendees came out
Blog 10 - Sheila O’Grady and Sharyl Mackeyto party at this chic, multi-level venue that also featured makeup applications, manicures, massages and hair styling provided by Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Spa and Bloomingdale’s. While pampering and beautifying, the partygoers rocked out to DJ Megan Taylor before they jumped in front of the GlossedandFound.com (recent Rising Star Award winners) photo
Blog 11 - Israel Idonije and cute friendbooth for fun pics. There was a Gastronomy by Groupon restaurant tasting featuring Stella Artois brews and bites from some of Chicago’s top restaurants including Shaw’s Crab House, Frankie’s Scaloppine, Tavernita, Mercadito, Market and Sprinkles. A fall fashion show styled by Eric Himel was a hit with the crowd. I was proud to be a host of this event
Blog 13along with Common (Honorary Host), J.P. Anderson, Les Coney, Max Crowley, Jena Gambaccini, Stacy Herpe, Eric Himel, Israel Idonije, Sonya Jackson, Anna Kimball, Graham Kostic, Whitney Lasky, Kristina McGrath, Noelle Provencial, Mary Astor Smithe, Angi Taylor, Sharon Trudell, Dan Uslan, Valerie Warner and Kelli Zink. Congrats to Sarah Burrows (900 Shops Marketing Manager), Ryan Beshel (900 Shops PR Guru) and their teams on an outstanding night of fashion!
 

Blog 14 - Stylish North Bridge Shops peepsMy other favorite FNO event occurred at the Shops at North Bridge. This event had a unique take for FNO that featured a stylist’s fall fashion challenge. Local bloggers, fashionistas and stylists – who included Amy Olson, Maggie Morgan, Amy Creyer, Jessi
Blog 15 - Samantha Amato and Rhonda Sanderson at North Bridge ShopsSheehan, Emma Arnold, Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin, Suzanne Kopulos and Amanda Wolfson with Dee Brodlo – created looks that were displayed on large pedestals that began at the entryway and ended at the VIP Stylist’s Studio Lounge in front of Nordstrom. I was happy to be a judge along with Carrie Lannon, Katie Schroeder, Elaine Doremus, Jessie Kalin and Lisa Ackerman for this fun-filled competition co-hosted by CS Magazine. The night
Blog 16also included a private VIP reception featuring Russian Standard Vodka cocktails, small bites from Corky’s Catering and delicious sweets courtesy of Vosges
Blog 17 - 900 Shops’ PR Guru Ryan Beshel with cute friendHaut Chocolat. Event producer Amy Olson (who was paired with Nordstrom) won for Judges’ Choice; Suzanne Kopulos (Garmental.com) was paired with White House and won Shoppers’ Choice, fashionista Maggie Morgan (paired with XXI Forever) won
Blog 17 - Amy Olson accepts award at Shops at North Bridgethe Drive in Style award for Most Creative and Cheeky Chicago’s Jessica Zweig and Erica Bethe Levin (paired with United Colors of Benetton) won for Most Wearable. I loved ALL of the
Jessica Zweig, Suzanne Kopulos and Erica Bethe Levindesigns and marveled at the talent of these stylistas. Congrats to Erica Strama, Allison Cooke and their teams for this delightful and exciting FNO! And NOW you know ALL of the Windy City’s Fashion’s Night Out news…though I hope you were there to enjoy it, too!!! (To see ALL of the fabulous photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, Steve Starr and Daniel Boczarski, please click here!!


Blog 1 - tella cuts her beautiful Eli’s cheesecake!Stella Foster always signed off on her column with "Yeah, I said it" and at her BIG retirement party August 28th, she did indeed say it to NBC president and general manager Larry Wert when he asked her point blank if she was really
Blog 2 - Sylvia Perez, LeeAnn Trotter, Stuart Ellison, Linda Yu and Diana Palomarretiring. Her hesitation and half-hearted "Yeah" gave everyone in the room some hope for the future with this much beloved columnist. More than 700 fans, friends and supporters turned out
Blog 3 - With Ken Bedford, Stella, Reverend Jesse Jackson and friendsat the Cultural Center to see/hear Stella Foster tell it like it is for the last time…or was it? I personally don't see our dynamic Stella sitting in a rocking chair from now into perpetuity but as we all know, she does need some rest after
Blog 4 - Juanita Jordan, Donna Grant and friend43 years of deadlines! I know she's already being courted by a variety of media types to bring her honesty and inclusiveness to their outlets so I think it's only a matter of time before she returns in some way, shape or form back
Blog 5 - Stella’s loving sis, Jamie Foster Brown (in yellow headband) with friendsto the public arena. But on this night, it was all about paying homage to someone who has given us all so much. NBC's Art Norman served as emcee for a program that included tributes from Governor Pat Quinn, Warner Saunders, Melody Spann
Blog 6 - Ralph Hughes, Sharyl Lee Ralph and Tyronne StoudemireCooper, Dominic DiFrisco, Dori Wilson, Tom Dreesen, Larry Wert, Jamie Foster Brown, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Harry Ellis, Rob Johnson, Merri Dee, State Representative Mary Flowers, Richard Dent,
Blog 7 - NBC’s Daniella Guzman and Martha MelmanShell Reyes, John Rogers, Allen Rafalson, moi 🙂 and many more. Governor Quinn called her "a woman for all seasons" and said, "They [the people] need your energy, your enthusiasm and your zest for life. We've been blessed by Stella covering the news
Blog 7 - Shauna Montgomery and Shelley MacArthur Farley with Stedman Grahamwith her human touch." Warner Saunders recounted a comment from her boss, Kup, who said, "I couldn't do my job without her." (And she had only been working for him six weeks at the time!) Saunders went on to
Blog 8 - Colleen Kelly, Rob Morhaim and Catie Keoghsay, "She was not hateful, not nasty and whenever she shot an arrow of criticism, she always dipped it in honey first. You're truly a Chicago treasure." NBC President Larry Wert said, "No one's been more fair or genuine than Stella." Melody Spann Cooper posed this question: "Have
Blog 9 - N’Digo’s Hermene Hartmanyou ever seen anybody with a gossip column who still keeps the best secrets in the world?" Melody then sang the theme from "The Golden Girls" with Theresa Griffen. The lyrics began with "Thank you for being a friend"…awwwww! The
Blog 9 - Reverend Jesse and Jacqueline Jacksonprogram continued with comments from Channel 2 News' Rob Johnson who said, "Thanks to Stella for making this a better town to live in." Reverend Jesse Jackson offered a prayer reflecting, "We can't take this moment for granted. Thank you Lord for the gift you've given us in Stella Foster and thanks for the gifts you gave to her." Harry Ellis said, "There will never be another you!" Dominic DiFrisco, a well-known leader in the Italian
Blog 10 - RL’s Chef Ryan Pitts and Rich VarnesAmerican community who awarded Stella with the Dante Award, had this to say: "Stella, the name
Blog 11 - John Colletti and Ed Howlett, Jr.means ‘star’ in Italian. She's a star in our lives and she's a champion of truth. We are infinitely privileged to walk beside you." President of the Chicago Journalists Association Allen Rafelson, who recently awarded Stella with a Lifetime Achievement Award, said Stella's appearance for the gala broke attendance records. Stella's sister,
Blog 12 - Robert Mills, Tracey Tarantino and my ChuckJamie Foster Brown, said, "She's retiring from the Sun-Times but she can't retire from who she is. Stella IS Chicago!" The
Blog 13Stellabration committee was chaired by Stella's longtime friend Ken Bedford and co-chaired by PR maven extraordinaire Dionne Williams. Members included John Bellamy, Michelle Boone, Gloria Brown, Les Coney, Carolyn
Blog 14Curry, Alex Dana, Dominic DiFrisco, Mary Frances Fagan, Craig Gilmore, Hermene Hartman, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Kim Nash, Lisa Newman, Art Norman, Bill Pry, Tim & Everett Rand, Shell Reyes, Donna Lear Robinson, John Rogers, Lorri Stacker, Robert Storman, Commissioner Debra Sims,
Blog 15 - Bonnie Spurlock, Dori Wilson, Janice Corley and friendAbe Thompson, Dori Wilson and moi. The night also included rousing numbers by The Together Band & Rich Aldana, DJ Sam Chatman and vocalist Antone. It was a night packed with love for this Chicago treasure and I'm hoping – like all of the other "Stellaholics" out there – that we haven't seen the last of her. Yeah, I said it! (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here to view more!)


Oldtown pic by jaunteddotcomAfter a brief name change, the annual end-of-summer festival in Old Town was back on September 2nd as “Crush in Old Town.” On Labor Day weekend, Wells Street was closed from North Avenue to Schiller for music, food, artwork and
Stanley_Paul-200x250custom designs in the Crush marketplace. Entertainment included Like Pioneers, Andrew Belle, Pet Lions and My Gold Mask. The event also included face painting, a magic show, crafting with Little Beans Café, delicious food from Trattoria Roma and a variety of fabulous wines from Galleria Wine & Liquors. Here’s how my Crush adventure unfolded on Watch312.com…with
Silver Whisper shipa special visit to the gorgeous home of Chicago’s most beloved bandleader/pianist, Stanley Paul! (Next year, Stanley will be hosting a Silversea’s tour from Stockholm to Copenhagen aboard the Silver Whisper from July 12th through 19th! His fast-paced, 45-minute show that includes nearly 300 rarely seen photographs will take you back to the days when glamour was GLAMOUR! (For more info, please call Candace Andreozzi at 561-306-6798 or email candace@posthastetravel.com.)

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Blog 1Eight years ago, Helen Melchior and I wanted to create an event to attract a younger crowd to The Joffrey Ballet and today, “Couture & Cocktails” has grown into the organization’s second largest fundraiser and we couldn’t be more excited! With dynamic
Blog 2 - Designer Pamella Roland with her cute family2012 co-chairs Kristina McGrath and Sonya Jackson, the tradition continues on Friday, September 28th, at the new McGrath Acura Dealership, located at 1301 N. Elston. Beloved designer Pamella Roland returns to C & C with a full runway fashion
Blog 3 - C & C co-chair Sonya Jackson with Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway (pic by www.sociallifechicago.com)show; there will also be once in a lifetime prizes, fun food (including sweets from Sugar Chic), live and silent auctions by Luxury Garage Sale, dancing with the Joffrey dancers and, for the first time, popular Chicago food trucks (including my favorites Babycakes and Southern Mac & Cheese)! And,
Blog 4 - C & C co-chair Kristina McGrath (styled by moi for TWC Mag)not to give away any surprises, but the opening of the event alone will be worth the cost of admission! So join us and experience the excitement and glamour of “Couture & Cocktails” this year! If you have a business you would like to have represented in the Tribute Book, or for tickets and more info, please click here. 

 

Blog 1 - Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker (BEST Table 2012 Winners)The 30th annual Evening on Astor brought out the competitive streaks in some of our town’s notables as they created extravagant, festive tablescapes for judging consideration. Hosted by the Gold Coast Neighbors Association, this annual block party and
Blog 2 - Peter Rogers, Wendy Chronister, Vern Broders (GCN Prez) and Francia Harringtonfundraiser brought out more than 800 people for a celebration that included the Michael Lerich Orchestra, pizzas, hot dogs, Italian sausage, face painting, children’s games, a photo booth and a dessert bar. Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy spoke along
Blog 3 - Lyn McKeaney and happy friend with her 2012 Table Awardwith 18th District Police Commander William Dunn. The BIG winner of the night for the 2012 Best Table Award went to Macy’s Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steven Stryker; others seen on the scene included Vern Broders (President of the Gold Coast Neighbors
Blog 4 - Margie Habermann, Christine Mallul, Suzie Glickman and Deborah ChapmanAssn.), Tiffani Kim, Bradley Griffith, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Paula and Peter Fasseas, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Janice Corley and Ray Blaney, Kim Gleeson, Heather Johnstone, Cheri Lawrence, Wendy
Blog 5 - Patrick Plante surrounded by friendsChronister, Kevin Sullivan, Cindy and Jack Fisher, Susie and Walter Jacobson (whose book, “Walter’s Perspective: A Memoir of Fifty Years in Chicago TV News” comes out in October), Margie
Blog 6 - Jonathan Wells, cute friend, Scott Bobek, Sally Jo Morris and Kevin SullivanHabermann, Christine Mallul, Deborah Chapman, Tim Egan, Lyn McKeaney, Scott Bobek, Sally Jo Morris, Liz Kores, Lauren Rapisand, Patrick Plante, Diva Lynne Jordan and Dorothy Whealan.  Funds raised from this event supported GCN in its efforts to protect, improve and beautify the neighborhood. (Check out more photos from this fun event here!)


Blog 1Mark your calendars now for this year’s Friends of Conservation Ball on Friday, October 12th! Hosted by FOC founder Reute Butler and celebrating the organization’s 30th anniversary, this event will be bigger and better than ever under the beautiful canopy
Blog 2 - Jim Fowler, Reute Butler, Zoraida Sambolin and friendsof the Winter Garden Ballroom of the historic Harold Washington Library! Zoraida Sambolin returns as emcee along with renowned wildlife expert Jim Fowler (of “Wild Kingdom” fame!) With a delicious dinner catered by George Jewell, there will also be a thrilling wildlife exposition of rare and beautiful animals. An auction of unique and exotic vacation adventures will include a London/Scotland package with a stay at
Blog 4 - Reute and Cloud, a rare snow leopardthe five-star luxury Langham in London, the Balmoral in Scotland and a trip aboard the historic Royal Scotsman. Other packages offer trips to China, India, South America, Patagonia Sur, Tanzania/Uganda and a weeklong Sea Cloud cruise
Blog 3 - The luxurious Langham Hotel, Londonaboard the intimate River Cloud II. The night will also feature a silent auction with rare art and gift packages as well as dancing under the stars to the Stu Hirsh Orchestra. Congrats in advance to Reute and unofficial event chair Paul Iacono on a one-of-a-kind fundraiser that will enable the FOC to partner with the local people in the Masai Mara area of Kenya to support traditional
Blog 5 - The luxury train, the Royal Scotsmanand sustainable ways of living in harmony with wildlife and ecosystems which helps keep our world intact. Founded in 1982, FOC was one of the world’s earliest leaders in the development of community conservation. For tickets and more information, please contact Sue Mitchell at 630-288-2714 or smitchell@friendsofconservation.org.
 

Blog 1 - Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Al Pacino star in Stand Up GuysThe eyes of the entertainment world will be on Chicago when the 48th Chicago International Film Festival opens with the world premiere of the highly-anticipated “Stand Up Guys” on Thursday, October 11th, at the Harris
Blog 3 - Director Fisher Stevens (pic by StarPulse.com)Theater. Produced by Chicagoan Tom Rosenberg and directed by Chicagoan Fisher Stevens, the film features an all-star cast that includes Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Julianna Margulies, all of whom will be in town to celebrate the opening night of the Festival on the 11th. (Lionsgate will release the film for an
Blog 4 - Julianna Margulies (pic by IMDB.com)Oscar qualifying run in December in L.A. and N.Y. and nationwide on January 11th.) “This is without a doubt the most exciting opening night for the Chicago International Film Festival in many years,” said Michael Kutza, Founder and Artistic Director of the CIFF. I’ll say!!!! (I’m also honored to say I’ll be co-hosting this event with
Blog 2the dynamic Rich Varnes.) The night begins at 6 p.m. with red carpet arrivals, a 7 p.m. welcome and guest presentation, a 7:30 p.m. film presentation and a 9:30 p.m. reception at the Chicago Cultural Center. For tickets (beginning at just $35) and more info, please click here or call 312-332-FILM. 
 

Zoe_logoThe ZOE Foundation will host its second annual In-Rhythm Benefit on Friday, September 21st, at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, located at 163 E. Walton. The black tie evening will feature emcee Val Warner and Dr. David Montgomery. Entertainment will be provided by Lynne Jordan & The Shivers with a presentation of the 2012 Gift of Life Award to
Lynne Jordan & the ShiversMr. David Rubin, a philanthropic supporter of the foundation as well as a patient who has mastered atrial fibrillation. This event creates awareness and is dedicated to finding a cure for atrial fibrillation (AF) and elimination of strokes and heart failure. For more info, please visit www.ZFFORAF.org.

 

Guys Night Out inviteThe Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC), a non-profit organization working with abused children, will hold its fifth annual “Guys Night Out for the Kids” event at Carmichael’s Steak House (located at 1052 W. Monroe) on Thursday, September 20th. Chicago Bear Charles Tillman is the honorary chair who will be joined by other athletes, sports personalities, golf pros and community and business leaders. The event will include an indoor BBQ, games, music, premium cigar
Charles Tillman and daughter Tiannamakers and liquor vendors in a tailgating atmosphere. Other athletes expected to attend include former Bear “Big Cat” Williams, Richard Dent, “LA” Mike Richardson, Jim Thornton, Ron Kittle, Dan Pasqua and Dan Hampton. All proceeds from “Guys Night Out” benefit the CCAC and the victims of sexual abuse in the Chicago area. For tickets, beginning at $100, and more info, please visit www.chicagocac.org. 
 

LuckyDo you need a little luck? Well, look no further than PAWS Chicago, located at 1997 N. Clybourn, where Lucky, a two year-old miniature Schnauzer, is
PAWSChicagoready and waiting for YOU! He came to PAWS after he was dropped off at the city pound weighing only 16 pounds. He’s an energetic little guy who loves people and playtime. Please help this precious pooch live up to his name by
Chase Community Giving Programgiving him a great forever home! (Visit PAWS’ website or call 773.935.PAWS for more details.) And while we’re on the subject, PAWS Chicago is competing with 196 charities nationwide for grants ranging from $10K to $250K from the Chase Community Giving Program. If you’re so inclined, please help by voting for them through September 19th at www.pawschicago.org/chase! Good luck…and adopt Lucky! 🙂
 
Hope you’re all enjoying the “dog” days of summer (pun intended) & I hope to see you at some of these cool events around town soon!
 
Love always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com



Big Night InviteP.S. As you all know I’m a sucker for our furry friends so here is another great event that I hope you’ll be able to make! BIG NIGHT CELEBRITY CHEFS BENEFIT will take place under the fabulous Tiffany Dome of Preston Bradley Hall in the Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington, on Wednesday, September 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. This event is hosted by the Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control and will feature celebrity Chef Jackie Shen, who, along with about a dozen of her well-known chef friends, will each prepare delicious dishes for this wonderful cause! A fabulous live auction will include exquisite jewelry from Sidney Garber. So come join us, enjoy the music, relax and have a Mutt-ini as we help our four legged friends find forever homes. (Tickets are $100 in advance and $125 at the door…visit www.fcacc.org for more info.)

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August 23, 2012 · 11:24 am

GLAMORAMA’S FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA BENEFITS RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE!

…PLUS HOTEL LINCOLN’S GRAND OPENING, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S GARDEN PARTY, WATCH312.COM’S GLAMORAMA VIDEO COVERAGE, CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW PARTIES, “OUT IN THE PARK” AT SIX FLAGS, TUESDAY WANTS YOU AT PAWS CHICAGO, MOVE OVER REVLON – CAMP IS COMING AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Meg & Liz, Robin Thicke, Janae and LaTressa McVey and friendIt was a cornucopia of exciting visuals, fabulous fashions, glamazon models, great people watching and the best after-party around: Macy’s Passport Presents Glamorama wowed the crowds again this year at Blog 2 - Laura Schwartz, Nick Noonan, Amy Heidemann, Andrea Schwartz, Dr. Steve Strykerthe Harris Theater on August 10th. This new venue provided a different feel to the show with a smaller stage, which (thankfully!) didn’t affect the quality or excitement level in the least and the Rooftop at Blog 3Millennium Park proved to be one of the BEST after-party venues thus far! The show (expertly produced by Myron Johnson), and themed “The British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now,” Blog 4opened with Macy’s I Heart Radio contest winners, Meg & Liz. These two 19-year-old fraternal twins from Nashville became YouTube sensations when their cover songs and original pop anthems racked up 160 million views. Their Blog 5 - YouTube sensations Meg & Lizlatest hit, “Are You Happy Now?” an anti-bullying song, features Meg’s soulful acoustic guitar alongside her sister Liz’s soaring vocals. The chart topping duo Karmin also performed – they too shot to fame through their collection of YouTube cover songs, only theirs featured the rapid fire rapping of Amy Heidemann alongside her musician/singer/fiancé, Nick Blog 6 - Marco Foster, Nicole Townsend, Paul IaconoNoonan. They ignited the web when they posted a cover of Chris Brown’s “Look at Me Now” on YouTube; the clip went viral, Ellen Degeneres called and the rest is history! (They even had the honor of introducing this year’s Ronald McDonald Host Family, Janae McVey, and her mom, LaTressa.) Headliner Robin Thicke taught himself to play piano at the age of 12 and by Blog 7 - Macy’s Jeffrey Gennette, Janae LaVey, Macy’s Martine Reardon, LaTressa McVey, Doug Porter21, had written and produced songs on over 20 gold and platinum albums for Michael Jackson, Marc Blog 8 - Gretchen Klotz, Fabrice Calmels, Elena Samokhina and Corinne MelchiorAnthony, Pink, Christina Aguilera and others. Macy’s fall fashions featured collections from Tommy Hilfiger, Jean Paul Gaultier, Material Girl, Sean John, Bar III, Rachel Roy and Donna Karan; always a crowd pleaser, the Diesel underwear segment did NOT disappoint this year with hunky male models sporting Beefeater hats, police helmets and billy clubs, House of Lords wigs and, of course, underwe
ar! The segment opened with Blog 9 - Macy’s Robin Hall with British Invasion Dancers (Bailey Munoz, Will, Charlize and cute friend)the guys lined up atop a London bus, tearing off their shirts and marching down stairs towards the appreciative audience. The Blog 10 - Liz Kores, Kamal Bosamia, Lauren Rapisandyoung British Invasion dancers included some favorites from last year like Bailey Munoz (aka BailRok), who Cee-Lo Green famously lifted over his head in last year’s finale. The after-party on the Rooftop of Millennium Park was over-the-top spectacular with British touches everywhere you looked. The “Windsor Terrace’s” champagne lounge featured Blog 11 - Diesel underwear, yeah!the “Queen’s jewels” in a Lucite case while the “Piccadilly Circus” section offered Lancome makeup touchups and a photo booth with props. Delicious food was everywhere you looked Blog 12 - Headliner Robin Thickewith specialty drinks offered at all 18 Patron bars! Attendees included Andrea Schwartz with Dr. Steven Stryker, Martine Reardon, Robin Reibel, Jeff Ganette, Doug Porter, Christina Thomas, Paul Heubener, Kamal Bosamia, Fabrice Calmels, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Sheila Musolino, David Sanchez, Rachel Schwanz, Corinne Melchior, Blog 13 - Robin Reibel and Andrea SchwartzGretchen Klotz, Billy Dec, Ken Norgan, Jose Conforme, Marcus Riley, Nicole Townsend, Marco Foster, Laura Schwartz, Justin Jacobson, Dori Wilson, Sherren Leigh, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Toni Canada, Gale Gottlieb, Carol Gibson, Blog 14 - With Deborah Brown, Tarrah Cooper and friendCamille Britton, Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser, Joan Colmar, Kathleen Henson, Michelle Durpetti, Stephanie Kroll, Heather Ingram, Kathy O’Malley, Katie Cahnmann, Quenten Schumacher, Katie McLenaghan, John Blog 16 - Lynn McMahan, Rebecca Besser and Gale GottliebBourgeois, Donna Pecci, Marcellas Reynolds, Samantha Lurie, Stephanie Teymourian, Sara Jahn, Ami York, Joanne Lee Paul, Tee Lam Dubois, Marketa Kazdova and Sadhna and Narmda Kumar. All of the dancers, models and performers travel to all four cities – Blog 15Minneapolis, Chicago, L.A. and San Francisco. For the fourth year, Glamorama benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. To date, this event has raised more than $750K for this charity to support the Blog 17building of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House which officially opened on June 26th! During the past 13 years, this event has raised more Blog 17 - Confetti-filled finalethan $2 million for Chicagoland charities. See below for an incredible Watch312.com video documenting this historic event! (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr.)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?width=640&height=360&embedCode=9tdTJwNTqrT3sRVib6ovXa5x86KyMdQ5&videoPcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy

Blog 1 - Boka Groups’ Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm with Mary Todd and Abe LincolnChicago's newest boutique hotel, Hotel Lincoln, hosted its official Grand Opening Party at 1816 N. Clark on Thursday, August 16th. Hundreds of locals and hotel guests partied on three floors including the J. Blog 2 - Chicago Tribune’s Luis Gomez (2nd from L) and Emerald-Jane Hunter (R) with friendsParker Rooftop, which has one of the best views in the city. Looking out over Lincoln Park, the zoo and lagoons with the lake beyond is a sight not to be missed! Even Mary Todd Blog 3 - RMHC’s Alli Turner, her cute hubby and Lesley Prizant-Goodmanand Abe Lincoln were on hand to greet guests as they entered. Neon wristbands allowed party-goers all-access into this charming hotel located at the crossroads of Lincoln, Clark and Wells. Conveniently located near the Lincoln Park Zoo, Green City Blog 4 - Perennial Virant’s Jason Dohmann and Boka Group VP Ian GoldbergMarket, Second City and Steppenwolf Theatre Company, this 12-story hotel has 184 rooms that begin reasonably at $179 a night. Dining specials can even be ordered up from restaurant hotspot, Perennial Virant, whose beloved food and beverage director Jason Dohmann was on hand on this special night greeting guests with a smile and a hug. Congrats to BOKA Group restaurant owners Kevin Blog 5 - Deborah Chapman (L) and friendsBoehm and Rob Katz and Joie de Vivre Hotel Group for this terrific addition to the neighborhood. Guests seen on the scene included Marlaine Selip, Cindy Patrasso, Emerald-Jane Hunter and Ji Suk Yi from “Windy City Blog 6 - Christopher Dovalina and Jennifer SuttonLive,” Andrea Schwartz, Scott Bobek, Julianne Glatz, the Landon twins, Laura Schwartz, Charley Jordan, Jennifer Sutton, Deborah Chapman, Lesley Prizant Goodman, Alli Turner, Luis Gomez, Patrick Parkey and Blog 7 - The Landon Twins and Scott Bobek with friendsMitchell Obstfeld. I'm so happy to see that horrible "Days Inn" sign disappear! For more info on Hotel Lincoln, please click here!! (P.S. The Hotel Lincoln is pet-friendly AND charitable, with a $1 donation per room being donated to PAWS Chicago – more than $4,800 has been donated to date, thanks to Deborah Chapman!) Check out more fun party pics here!

Blog 1 - Verdant lagoon vistaLincoln Park Zoo’s second annual Wine & Wildflowers Garden Party was a casually elegant affair in the zoo’s gardens with almost 350 people enjoying this August 1st event that included a wine tasting, mingling and Blog 2 - Brian Houck, Troy Baresel, Judy Keller, Kevin Bellleisurely strolls through the pristine grounds of this urban oasis. Strains of bluegrass music from the Bubbly Creek Bluegrass Band, which could be heard over the Hope B. McCormick swan pond, delighted Blog 3 - Houck discusses the future of the gardensattendees who feasted on Southern favorites including an upscale selection of brisket and pork barbecue bites from Tigerlily Events, deviled eggs topped with smoky bacon and chicken salad tartlettes. Wine Blog 4 - Guests dressed for upscale barbecue themestations included selections from sponsors Apothic Wines, Martin Codax, William Hill Estate Winery and Wirtz Beverage Illinois. Tours throughout the night highlighted striking garden displays of purple fall anemone, tardiva Blog 5 - Lovely ladieshydrangeas and dinner plate hibiscus. Senior VP of Facilities Troy Baresel and Director of Horticulture Brian Houck gave guests an exclusive sneak peek at what lies ahead for the Gardens at Lincoln Park Zoo. Their aim is to create a garden for all seasons that preserves the historic character of the Zoo’s grounds. Founded in 1868, our zoo is one of the country’s only free, privately-managed zoos. (Click here to view more pics!)

Blog 1 - Host Mike Wilkie and Terry LeontiosThe Chicago Air & Water Show is one of my favorite events every summer – Chuck and I always love seeing the rehearsals the day before when the planes fly right over our deck and terrify the Chihuahuas! And although Blog 2 - (Front) Tess, Jamie Gaballa, Whitey Pearson, (top) Charles Herrick and Chuckmuch is written about the show itself, I love the viewing parties thrown across the city to celebrate! I know the newly opened Hotel Lincoln hosted an event as did friends Michael Wilkie and Kristina and Mike McGrath. Wilkie's penthouse home – Blog 3 - Mr. and Mrs. Paul Episcope and friendhigh atop 1500 N. Lake Shore – is, in my opinion, the best perch from which to view these amazing feats of daring since the planes are right at eye level from the 24th floor. His beautiful home was formerly owned Blog 4 - Hosts Mike and Kristina McGrath with Richard (Dickie) Parrilloby an heir of Morton Salt so you can imagine the grandeur. Kristina and Mike McGrath's home holds a special sense of place for me since they live at the Palmolive Building, formerly Playboy headquarters. Their Blog 5 - The “1500 Penthouse Pals”h
ome on the 22nd floor was formerly the editorial department where I spent a lot of my time in earlier years so I felt right at home in their luxurious space with two grand outdoor patios…one with a putting green! Partygoers included Blog 6 - Hostess Kristina McGrath (R), twin sis Korinna Isselhardt (L) & Gayle AnthonySonya Jackson, Korinna Isselhardt (Kristina's darling twin sis), Hazel and Warren Barr, Lynn and John McMahan, Michaela and Dick Parrillo, Susanna Negovan, Sherrill and John Bodine, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Uslan, Gayle and Jim Anthony, Sherren Leigh, Sugar Rautbord, Rebecca Besser, Toni and Rick Canada and Julee White. A gorgeous lakefront, world-class aerial displays and great friends to see it all with – Chicago is MY kind of town! (To see all party pics, please click here!)

TPAN bannerI’ve been fortunate to have attended quite a few unique events in my time but this is one clever idea for a party! An all new private LGBT event benefitting TPAN will feature rides, live music and a party-like atmosphere: “Out in the Park” will be at Out in the Park inviteSix Flags Great America on Saturday, September 8th from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. The park will be closed to the general public for this event, where more than 3,000 guests are expected to attend. Attendees will enjoy DJs Matthew Harvat and Phil DaBeatz, who will be spinning simultaneously as a team. A limited number of bus tickets will be available departing from Uptown on Montrose Avenue, one block west of Broadway. Buses will depart at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., all returning at 1 a.m. Blog 1 - ICB Executive Director Bill Natale and Congressman Danny DavisTickets in advance are $35, which includes admission to the park all day long, free parking and admission to this private event. (For tickets, visit sixflags.com using promo code OUT2012 and for bus ticket info, please visit gaysixflagschicago.com or call 773.878.5323.)

Congrats to the students of the Illinois Center for Broadcasting, who donated their time and efforts for Congressman Blog 2 - ICB student Kiera CobbDanny Davis’ recent Back to School Parade & Picnic. Twelve students happily assisted seniors by serving meals, helping them on and off of buses and with games. The kids gave back to the Blog 3 - ICB’s Ashley Stevensoncommunity in the spirit that won ICB the 2012 ACCSC Award (Accrediting Commission Career Schools & Colleges) that OICB Prez Bob Mills will be receiving in San Diego this September. They beat out more than 1,400 schools and 250,000 college kids in garnering this award so congrats to the students and to ICB on this major honor!

Friends for the Cure logoFriends for the Cure is a dynamic group of associates who have been working together since 2003 to help raise money for research to cure diabetes. The founder, Margery Teller (one of Crain’s “100 Most Influential Women”), will bring together more than 700 celebrants on Saturday, September 15th from 7 p.m. until midnight at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. The night will include strolling musicians, performing artists, DJs and an extensive silent auction that will include a pair of weekend stays at the Langham Hotels in Boston and Pasadena, among many other exciting items. Tickets are $25 each or five for $100. (To purchase tickets, please visit www.diabetes.org/friends.)

Oak-Brook-Polo-Club-season4I’m sad to report that Chicago Beach Polo won’t be returning to North Avenue Beach this year but the good news for polo buffs is that it is alive and well in Oak Brook! Last Sunday was the first of four polo events this year. Remaining dates are August 26th, September 2nd and September 9th and games are at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more info, please visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com.

Social Gravity logoSocial Gravity, a network connecting people and businesses that share common causes and goals with the nonprofits they support, will be hosting a networking and fundraising happy hour on Friday, August 24th, at the Redhead Piano Bar, located at 16 W. Ontario St. from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Social Gravity founder Randy Shipley explains, “This event will raise money for  MyPlea.orgMyPlea.org, an innovative new online charitable organization dedicated to helping those in need on an individual case by case basis.” (Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more info, please contact Sarah Vargo via phone at 224.622.1759 or email at sarah@maven-chicago.com.)

August2012-RSM-lgMy favorite market, Randolph Street Market, returns to 1340 W. Washington on August 25th and 26th! America’s largest and liveliest urban antiques market offers more than eight acres of indoor and outdoor shopping plus some of the best food vendors in Chicago! It also offers free downtown furniture deliveries, a trolley from Water Tower Place and is very pet-friendly! Hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Remember, early Saturday shopping will benefit Chicago House! (For more info, please click here.) 

Tues6If you’re in the market for a 10-month-old Pointer pup, read no further and get over to PAWS Chicago NOW! Tuesday is an affectionate girl who loves to fetch and is anxious to bring so much life and energy to her new family! She is good on leash Tues7and walks and would probably make a great running partner, too! She sits on command and will need lots of exercise, structure, love and training. If you think you qualify for this bundle of love, contact Sarah Ahlberg at sahlberg@PawsChicago.org.

Blog 1 - Camp Cosmetics founder Michael PerichIt came out of the blue: I didn’t even know the guy and had never heard of Camp Cosmetics but when owner Michael Perich contacted me about creating my own lipstick, I had dreams Blog 2of Elizabeth Taylor and her Diamonds fragrance! Well, a dream for sure but what fun to have my own special coral color named “Candid Candace” and, best of all, getting to donate a portion of the proceeds to PAWS Chicago! He is a dedicated makeup artist with a salon filled with Blog 3 - Photo by Amie Hanalike-minded professionals who believe in their slogan “Women are beautiful…we make them pretty.” My signature color sells for $19.50 and can be ordered by phoning Camp Cosmetics at Blog 4630.545.0240 or visiting the store at 480A N. Main St. in Glen Ellyn. I am sooooo excited! 🙂 (Photo courtesy of Amie Hana.)

Thanks for being here and I hope to see you next week – same time, same place! I hope you’re enjoying this glorious weather that makes Chicago the most delightful city in the world!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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August 9, 2012 · 1:21 pm

THE SERVICE CLUB’S 8TH ANNUAL FASHION SHOW IS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER!

…PLUS CHEFS & THE CITY HIGHLIGHTS, COOPER TAKES CHARGE, A WHOLE BLU WORLD, IADT’S IMAGINE ’12 FASHION SHOW, OLYMPIC NEWS, STELLA’S LATEST HONORS, BIRTHDAYS GALORE, A VERY SPECIAL NECKLACE, CHICAGO TRIBUNE’S GIFT TO READERS, A NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Event chairs Hazel Barr, Tracey DiBuono, Saira Cooper and Jean AntoniouThis event has been a longtime labor of love for this year’s Chair Emeritus and event founder Hazel Barr, who, along with co-chairs Jean Antoniou, Saira Cooper and Tracey Blog 2 - Karen Peters, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Tiffany Marshall, Monika Dixon and Mary Pat BurnsDiBuono (Tarantino), planned a fashion extravaganza July 30th that was a sell out with more than 260 guests. The perfect summer day started on the Peninsula terrace. Blog 3 - Wendy Krimins and Ann WallaceAnd with the Hancock building looming in the background, guests mingled and enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres while anxiously awaiting the start of the show. Since I was Blog 4 - Rich Varnes, show producer co-chair Tracey Tarantino and Greg Hydermodeling, I got there early for rehearsals which is always great fun with all of the ladies in high spirits and excited about spending the day with their friends. The Grand Ballroom was bathed Blog 4 - Tina Weller, Dr. Julius Few, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooksin a sea of pink and themed “C’est Magnifique.” Images of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe were projected on the walls with a pink runway waiting for models who included Blog 5 - Co-chair Jean Antoniou and the Peninsula GM Maria ZecService Club members along with other local celebrities. Tracey Tarantino, as always, expertly produced the show even adding original French street music and remixed French pop music. This year’s runway collections featured fall fashions from top Blog 6 - SC Prez Vonita Reescer with Abe and Angela Thompsonretailers that included Escada (Mary Pat Burns wore my favorite outfit of the day: a feathered coat dress over a strapless dress – exquisite!), Intermix, Starr Couture and Blog 7 - Bunky CushingNeopolitan. Laurie Davis’ Lulu’s at the Belle Kay provided vintage splendor for a show that had something for everyone. The men’s fashions were provided by Burdi and Tom James with an exciting finale inspired by the Olympics from Ralph Lauren Polo that featured Blog 8 - Larissa Kronfeld and friendsmodels waving American flags on their runway walks. Other highlights included an exciting evening gown and fur segment from the always popular, long-time supporter, Neiman Marcus, and Stuart Weitzman, whose shoe Blog 9 - Chilli Peppersegment had women clamoring for more! Baton Show Lounge performer Chilli Pepper was a crowd pleaser in her own black mini-dress topped with an eye-popping red cropped fur Blog 10 - Felicia Winiecki, Diana Palomar, Lynn McMahanjacket. (Neiman’s gowns are breathtaking and I was honored to wear one by designer Robin Singer.) Models included Dan Uslan, Skip Grisham, Rich Gamble, Bunky Cushing, Stanley Blog 11 - Monika Dixon and SC President Vonita ReescerPaul, DC Crenshaw, Dr. Julius Few, Greg Hyder, Rich Varnes, Elizabeth Brodsky, Mamie Walton, Karen Peters, Kelly Drury, Larissa Kronfeld, Matt Lee, John Carroll, Scott Bobek, Blog 11 - Nina Mariano and Jan FlanaganRino Burdi, Jean Antoniou, Kim Gleeson, Lynn McMahan, Toni Canada, Gale Gottlieb, Abe Thompson, Rich Gamble, Mary Lasky, Sheila O’Grady, Saira Cooper, Tina Weller, Blog 12 - Katie McLenaghan and Jennifer SuttonSherren Leigh, Susanna Negovan, Kip Lewis, Robin Robinson, Amy Wimer, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, Mary Ann Childers, and more. (Photography by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…please click here to view more pics!)

 

Finally, the PAWS Beach Party is ready for your viewing pleasure! Since we are upgrading our network, this has taken a little longer than usual. Hope you enjoy this darling segment about the pets and the people who love them!

Blog 1 - Bill Lasche, co-chair Amanda Puck (R) and glam friendChefs & the City is always a much-loved and highly-supported event at the Ritz-Carlton benefitting Vital Bridges Chronic Care Center and for its eighth annual event in the Grand Ballroom, more than 30 top chefs Blog 2 - Chef Chair Ryan Pitts and his RL Restaurant crewdonated their time and fabulous samplings for a delectable evening of food for a cause! Beginning with a VIP Reception, guests sipped Grey Goose cocktails and beverages provided by Magic Hat, enjoyed tunes from DJ Megan Taylor and snapped Blog 3 - Handsome Chris Sofka (2nd from R) with his mom, sis and cute friendphotos in the Magbooth provided by Magnolia Photo Booth Co. Savory fare was prepared by 24 top chefs who included Ryan Pitts Blog 4 - Helen Melchior, Chuck, Paul Iacono, and Ken Norgan(from RL who was also the Chef Chair), Heather Terhune (Sable), Chris Pandel (The Bristol), Carl Shelton (BOKA), Giuseppe Tentori (GT Fish & Oyster), Patricio Sandoval (Mercadito), Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno), Doug Psaltis (RPM Italian), Roger Blog 5 - Chefs & the City after-party fun!Herring (Socca), Greg Bastien (Tavernita), Michael Garbin (Union League Club), Chuck Kazmer (Deca), Shawn McClain (Green Zebra), Blog 7 - The cutest & nicest brother-sister duo in town, Sanjay and Natasha SharmaJerome Bacle (Courtright’s), Paul Virant (Perennial Virant/Vie), Andy Motto (Quince) and Jonathan Gorecki (Karyn’s on Green) among many others. Honorary chairs for the event were Rich Varnes, Amanda Puck and Jason Dohmann. The evening also featured an amazing raffle that included a weekend in Harbor Country, a week in Puerto Blog 6 - Todd Hatoff, Alan Harder and glam friendVallarta, tickets to Chicago Gourmet, a C.D. Peacock necklace and so much more! The tastings were out of this world: Some of my highlights were Chef Jerome Bacle’s tomato gazpacho, Chef Tony Priolo’s seafood salad,
John Walcher and friendChef Michael Garbin’s short rib sliders, Chef Stephen Henry’s heirloom tomato burrata with fresh basil and Chef Adam Grandt’s crispy pork bellies with tomato jam. Vital Bridges President/CEO Debbie Hinde, presented RL Restaurant and Gibsons Restaurant Group with the Robert S. Mayo Extra Helping Award which was accepted by RL GM Rich Varnes and Chef Pitts. The dance floor Blog 9 - America’s Dog was there for the after-party fun!filled for the after-party as DJ Taylor jammed with drummer Michael Riendeau. Guests in attendance included Todd Hatoff, Mark Smithe, Joli Burrell, Jessica Zweig and Brian Fisher, Leslie Hindman’s John Walcher Blog 10 - Alli Cortes and Terrence Chappell(who did the auctioneering), Alan Harder, Lorin Adolph, Sanjay and Natasha Sharma, Chuck Benya, Tina Weller and Dr. Jeff Weller, Bill Lasche, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Paul Iacono and Elizabeth Brodsky. For this portion of the evening, food choices included a hot dog cart from America’s Dog, Swirlz cupcakes, Vosges chocolates and Jake Melnick’s hamburgers. More than $100,000 was raised to Blog 11support Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care, which helps low-income people living with AIDS rebuild their health and lives Blog 12 - Peck’s Bad Boys!by providing food and nutrition services, housing and counseling. Revenue from Chefs & the City will underwrite food for more than 30,000 meals and 1,200 nights of housing. (To see more pics and my complete Chicago Tribune Sunday coverage, please click here!)
 
Blog 1 - Co-chairs Janet Barnes and Ashley WeinzweigIt was a whole BLU world of fundraising when co-chairs Janet Barnes and Ashley Weinzweig welcomed a record 1,200 guests to a sold-out lakeside soiree at the Shedd Aquarium for the sixth annual Auxiliary Board fundraiser, Blog 2 - Gorgeous view in the Windy City from the SheddBLU! Raising more than $266,000 to support Shedd’s conservation and education initiatives, Shedd’s sultry summer evening benefit was filled with the sounds of tinkling cocktail glasses and local performers who included Detour JazFunk, Diver, Ami Moss & The Unfortunate and DJ Zebo. Blog 3 - Leadership Committee Jack Hammond, Susie Gura, GP Searle, Ashley Weinzweig, Claudine Tambuatco, Janet Barnes, Katelyn Danielski, John Hennegan, David TraceAgainst a backdrop of the Chicago skyline with fireworks popping over Lake Michigan, this event is always a sellout and a very Blog 4 - Glam guests in the Diet-Coke Pop-up Loungepopular summer social event! “The combining of exotic food and wine tastings with the glittering Chicago skyline made for an unforgettable night to come together in support of the Shedd,” said Barnes. Attendees enjoyed an array of mouthwatering dishes throughout the evening such as Big Fish Farms’ sustainable Blog 5 - SmileAmerican paddlefish caviar (a staple at any Shedd event), summer garden rolls from Sunda, walleye tacos with tomato jalapeno chutney from Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop and peeky toe crab Blog 6 - Detour JazFunkcannoli from The Florentine. The planet-friendly event also featured a delectable dish from Sweetspring Salmon – the only sustainably-farmed salmon in the world, signs that were made from recycled materials or will be reused for other Shedd events and compostable plates and silverware. “This is the most successful BLU in the event’s history,” said Weinzweig. “From dollars raised to people in attendance – even down to how much fun everyone had!” To cap off an already enjoyable evening, trolleys shuttled guests between Shedd and Underground for the after-party. (For more pics, please click here!)
 
127434-250One of the city’s hottest fashion showcases is set to take place at the UIC Forum Stage on Friday, September 21st at 8 p.m. when students from The International Academy of Design & Technology host 127450-250Imagine ’12. Emceed by Jane Monzures of Loop FM’s morning show and host of "Living Healthy" on WGN, this student-produced exhibition will showcase an impressive array of 127449-250garments by 44 student designers and the production talents of IADT’s students, in addition to highlighting unique programs at the school. Join designer Borris Powell, Michelle Tan, Suzanne Kopulos, Mallory Ulaszek, Rebecca Taras, Horacio Nieto, Tonya Pierce, Fraley Le, LaTonya Williams and Katie Schuppler, among many others, for a night of fashion and inspiration! For tickets ($15 for students and $25 for general admission) and more info, please call 312.980.9295 or email imagine@iadtchicago.com.
 
Vicky BaftiriW.I.N.E. (Women in Entertainment) TV profiles a journalist and producer who is doing it ALL – Vicky Baftiri. As an Emmy-winning journalist and National Association of Black Journalist “Salute to Excellence” Sheila Henley Pres. Founder WINE TVnominee, Vicky’s producing credits include the NBC nationally syndicated “Open House” and special news reports for WGN-TV. W.I.N.E. TV creator Sheila Henley says, “I’m so excit
ed for her to share her experiences and I hope it inspires young women everywhere to write, edit and produce!” Congrats, Vicky and Sheila!
 
Blog 1 - Ruth RileyOlympian Ruth Riley, who won gold as a member of the undefeated 2004 USA women’s basketball team in Athens, hosted an Opening Ceremony viewing party at Rockit Bar & Grill. Prior to her party, she spent the afternoon as the Blog 2 - Kerry and Sally Shorrguest of the British Consulate in Chicago watching a live feed of the Opening Ceremonies. The viewing was held at the residence of Her Majesty’s Consul General, Robert Chatterson Dickson with citizens of Great Britain, members of the Mayor’s office and other guests in attendance. Ruth is currently a member of the WNBA basketball team, the Chicago Sky. Selected by ESPN as one of only three Blog 3 - Leeann Trotter with Consul General, Robert Chatterson Dickson, Ruth Rileyformer Olympians to be given a Flip cam, she recorded interviews from both viewing parties with Blog 4 - Chicago Sky Head Coach Pokey Chatman with fans Sloane, Ally, Harperportions from each to be used as vignettes during telecasts. Meet Ruth and her teammates in person when they appear at a fundraiser for Nothing But Nets sponsored by Amazing Blog 5 - Sylvia Fowels and Swin Cash in Olympic VillageCosmetics on August 12th in Libertyville from noon to 4 p.m. Nothing But Nets' malaria campaign is a global initiative to eliminate one of the leading killers of children in Africa. For more info, please click here. (Pics by Slawek Chrzaszcz and Steve Starr…check out more pics here!)

 
Printers row 71581092Six months ago, the Chicago Tribune proudly launched Printers Row, a membership program for those who love books, authors and conversations about the ideas they generate. This weekend, they offered readers a special eight page sample tucked inside the Sunday section (where Candid Candace’s column also appears!). And beginning this week, they are Trib pageoffering even MORE perks with the membership program ($99 per year) which will include four free tickets to Printers Row Live! Events in addition to Book-of-the-Month discounts, private author receptions and conversations at Tribune Tower. You can now also buy it as a digital-only subscription for $29 or just the journal/fiction, no events or programs, for $49, which includes the Printers Row Journal and Fiction home-delivered every week in print and digital editions. To join, call 866.977.8742, offer code X156, or click here! Happy reading from your friends at the Chicago Tribune!!! This is a real literary treat!
 
Blog 1 - Bunky and his fans-friends on his birthday at AlliumLots of friends’ birthdays this month! I loved celebrating the Squire, Bunky Cushing’s, birthday at the Four Seasons’ Allium Restaurant with his special ladies who included Hazel Blog 2 - The Squire makes a wish!Barr, Zarada Gowenlock, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Robin Segesta, Myra Reilly and Megan McKinney. Chef Kevin Hickey’s menu is out of this world delicious and I was so thrilled to be included! Friends also celebrated the perpetually glam Toni Canada’s birthday (or as Blog 3 - Too sweet for words!Dusty Stemer called it “her birthday tour”) at Piccolo Sogno. The evening couldn’t have been more perfect and Toni matched the occasion Blog 4 - Celebrating at Piccolo Sognoin one of the most beautiful dresses I’ve seen in a long time, a form-fitting floral sheath with purple feathers by Prabal Gurung. Friends on the patio included Corri McFadden (who regaled us with tales of her fairytale engagement on Capri), Jan Flanagan (sporting the coolest Louis Vuitton cuff on the Blog 5 - Corri McFadden and Heather Farleyplanet), Lynn McMahan, Nina Mariano, Dusty, Susanna Negovan, Heather Farley Ingram Blog 7 - Celebrating at Chicago Cutand Jennifer Hamood. And a special thanks to all of my sweet friends who came out for my late birthday celebration at Chicago Cut! I loved seeing Leslie Hindman, Sheila O’Grady, Helen Melchior, Toni Canada, Nina Mariano, Jan Flanagan, Sheryl Dyer, Blog 8 - Sonya Jackson, Sheryl Dyer and Mary Pat Bur ns at Chicago CutChris Long, Kristina McGrath, Sonya Jackson, Hazel Barr, Lynn McMahan, Blog 9 - Chris Long and Sheila O’GradyMary Pat Burns, Mamie Walton, Jean Antoniou and Tracy Tarantino. (Sharyl Mackey couldn’t attend since she and Mike were vacationing in Michigan.) Bon anniversaire a mes amis! 🙂 (For more pics from these fun parties, please click here!)
 
19126513_BG1I’m lovin’ all of this great press for and about Stella Foster! People are coming out of the woodwork to celebrate, honor, fete and host events to celebrate her long career! Her "Windy City Live" interview on Monday was priceless and now comes word she will be the FIRST African American women to be named Honorary Grand Marshall for the Columbus Day Parade on October 8th!!!! Later that same night, she also appeared on Jim Williams’ Show and Chicago Tonight with Phil Ponce! I have a feeling her “retirement” won’t be quite what she thinks it will be! LOL! Oh, and did I tell you the Mayor proclaimed Monday to be Stella Foster Day in Chicago!?! I was honored to be included in her last column along with so many other friends like Shell Reyes, Tony Weisman, Ken Bedford, Bonnie Krueger Spurlock, Anna Davlantes, Les Coney, John Roger and Mark Suppelsa! Stay tuned for more “Stellabration” updates! The Foster Love Train is just startin’ to roll!

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Cooper HefnerCheck out this pic of Cooper Hefner that his dad tweeted Monday night along with the phrase, “And the legend continues!” He is the Hef and Crystal Harris at Midsummer Night's Dream party 2012spitting image of Hef! I also hear he was a fabulous host at Saturday night’s Midsummer Night’s Dream party, even donning PJs! Too cute for words! And yes, Crystal Harris (aka the runaway bride) was there, too! (Check out a few more pics here!)
 
Blog 1 - Designer-race car driver Mary Kaczor with Ashley Judd “buying” the necklaceAnd if you’re in the market for unique jewelry and fast cars, then you might want to check out the Concurs d’ Elegance in Pebble Beach next week, August 15th through 19th. This is one of the top Blog 2 - Winning Ways II on finish linecar shows in the world with rare autos showcased against a stunning backdrop. A special highlight of the grand event will be a one-of-a-kind necklace created by former race car driver, Mary Kaczor. This piece is so special (for this 100th anniversary) that it even has its own name, Winning Ways II! It was created from pieces of famous cars in the Blog 3 - Mario Andretti with Mary and WWII necklacepast including the frame nut from the Marmon Wasp, the very first car to win the Indy 500. The necklace is sculpted out of 18K white gold with black and white princess cut diamonds on its sides Blog 4 - Lord and Lady March at Goodwood House before Ballsymbolizing two checkered flags. The centerpiece is a 10.43 carat diamond graded E VVS1. Bids will begin at $1.6 million…yeah, you heard me! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum as well as the Wheldon Family Trust. (Driver Dan Wheldon was killed in the Las Vegas race last year and is survived by his widow and two young sons.) (For more info, visit www.pebblebeachconcours.net or email mary@racerxdesigns.com.)
 
Strut event on Clark Street 2One of my favorite boutiques, STRUT, will be hosting a special shopping night, “High Fashion Without the High Price,” on Thursday, August 9th from 6 to 9 p.m. at 2549 N. Clark. Darling designer Borris Powell will feature his latest ready-to-wear collection and be on hand to answer all of your fashion questions. Beautiful boutique owner Niala Conte will be offering wine and appetizers to her lucky customers! Hope to see you there!
 
CS Social Glam Launch Party pageA special thanks to CS Magazine for featuring our Glamorama Launch Party in such fun style
in this month’s magazine! I love the comments and thought this was so clever! Hope to see you all Friday night, too! 🙂
 
That’s all folks! Hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition and I hope you’re having a fun-filled summer!
 
First pic from MarsLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Breaking news from my friend Tissy Eggleston who submitted this pic of the FIRST image transmitted from the Curiosity Rover on Mars!

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May 22, 2012 · 10:02 am

THE LADYBUG BASH’S “STARS & CARS” – HUNDREDS TURN OUT TO CELEBRATE WITH ATIA!

…PLUS ART INSTITUTE’S DOUBLE BLOW-OUTS, STEPPENWOLF’S STAR-STUDDED NIGHT, LINCOLN PARK ZOO’S PENTHOUSE PARTY, THE LOCAL TOURIST CELEBRATES 10, HUBBARD STREET DANCE'S SPOTLIGHT BALL, BRIAN ATWOOD, SMITHE FAMILY’S “RUN HOME CHICAGO” PARTY, WOMEN’S BOARD OF FIELD MUSEUM’S “SPARKLY” LUNCHEON AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Host-founder Dina ManzoIt was a night filled with celebration, hope and inspiration for the second Annual Ladybug Bash held this year at Grossinger City Autoplex on Thursday night. Host and organization founder Dina Manzo greeted each and every Blog 2 - Atia and Laura Lutarewychguest on the red carpet in a stunning champagne colored gown by Rivini. Dina, as I’m sure you know is filming the second season of HGTV’s “Dina’s Party,” which is about Dina’s many event planning adventures. She is also a former star of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” This one-woman powerhouse founded Project Ladybug in New Jersey in 2007 with the wish to bring financial and emotional support to children Blog 3 - Grace Melon (R) with her mom and dadundergoing rigorous cancer treatments and their families. Atia Lutarewych, the four-year-old pint-size namesake for Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, was there on this night, in full remission Blog 4 - Ms. Ill. Amber Podell, Mrs. Ill. Jennifer Cruz and Miss Ill. Nancy Toafter battling cancer for two years beginning at the tender age of 17 months. WGN Morning News’ “Around Town” reporter Ana Belaval was one of the hosts for the evening that also included Alpana Singh, host of WTTW’s “Check, Please!” (BTW, Alpana will become a restaurateur this summer Blog 5 - Margaret Rainone, Daniel Kinkade (R) and friendwhen she and her partners open The Boarding House restaurant at 720 N. Wells!) This year’s Ladybug Bash, themed “Stars & Cars,” also included Ms. Illinois 2012 Amber Podell, Miss Illinois Blog 6 - Glam girls beside 1927 Buick2012 Nancy To and Mrs. Illinois 2012 Jennifer Cruz. There were a lot of crowns and gowns in that room! The food stations were never ending with something delectable on all Blog 7 - Ana Belaval with Laura Lutarewychthree floors from restaurants that included Bistronomic, Orso’s Italian, Sunda, Uncle Julio’s, Wildfire, Market, D’s Sweet Berries, D’Casa, Burger Bar, Currents on the River, Hubbard Inn, Le Chocolat, Paradise Cantina and Punky’s Pizza & Pasta. Blog 8There were also dazzling vintage GM cars illustrating automobile luxury over the years that included a 1937, 1958 and 1973 Cadillac plus a 1927 Buick. Entertainer Angelo “Packy” Ciarvino performed “A Tribute to Dean Martin” that included funny impersonations of Jerry Lewis, too. All throughout the venue, Ford models showcased chic designs from AKIRA, one of Chicago’s Blog 9 - Even ladybug houseslippers were available for sale!premier fashion houses, while guests perused the extensive silent auction. Dan Colantone of Tone Productions DJ Services donated his musical talents as well as the Mike Jeffers Trio/Jazz Band and singer/songwriter Erica Iozzo. Celebrity Blog 10 - Grace Conlon brings the house down with her voiceimpersonator Debborah Hopkins was stunning as Marilyn Monroe! Grace Melon, a young cancer survivor, gave a riveting account of her long and arduous journey with a Broadway-worthy performance following. Grace’s Blog 11first round with leukemia began at the age of two. She was treated for two and a half years and was cancer free from age 5-12 when the cancer returned in July of 2008. She is now cancer-free, a freshman in high school and a professional actress, having signed on with Gray Talent Group at age 13. She has also initiated her own project to help kids with cancer. It was a wonderful night of fun for a great cause with proceeds benefitting the mission and ongoing programs offered by Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital. (To view more pics, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Ikram Goldman, Desiree Rogers and Maya PolskyThe Art Institute's Women's Board ALWAYS plans spectacular and creative events but on Friday, May 11th, they hosted TWO back-to-back parties at the Modern Wing! The night began with a gala for 600, co-chaired by Caryn Blog 2 - Margot Pritzker and WB President Francie ComerHarris and Stephanie Field Harris, celebrating the opening of the largest exhibition of artist Roy Lichtenstein's works to date. The colorfully clad, creative, black-tie crowd had a first look at the 160 works in the exhibition that included never-before-seen drawings, paintings and sculpture. Stunning decor by Bill Heffernan transformed the place into a pop-art explosion with many guests dressing the part in polka dots to echo the Ben-Day Blog 3 - Margo Brooks-Pugh, Marc Brooks, Anne Kaplandots in some of the artwork. Following dinner, guests moved upstairs to Terzo Piano where the Crash the Gala after-party was already in full swing with more than 400 guests taking advantage of the “after-party only” ticket pricing. Internationally Blog 4 - Michael Sacks, co-chair Caryn Harris and King Harrisrenowned DJ Jesse De La Pena (who, coincidentally, played at Ikram's big 10th anniversary party at the Hudson Club last year) had everyone on the dance floor. Here, decadent decor by Tom Kehoe delighted Blog 5 - Marlene Welsh Phillips, Patrick Ryan, Shirley Ryan and Jack Sandnerthe partygoers along with fun food from Bon Appetit that included hot dogs, popcorn, platters of bacon, pizza, ice cream and mo
re! Lucky guests were also treated to special performances by burlesque dancer Ray Ray Sunshine and cross-dressing entertainers Paul and Dan. (To see ALL photos by Bob Carl and Dan Rest, please click here! ("Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective" runs through September 3rd.)

Blog 1 - Stella with her Dante AwardChicago Sun-Times columnist Stella Foster was honored by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans with the coveted Dante Award at Galleria Marchetti on May 17th. There were so many in attendance that the valet Blog 2 - Nina Mariano, President Emeritus Dominic DiFrisco and wife Carolparkers had to close up shop for lack of space! Every year, the Human Relations Committee presents the Dante Award to a member of the local news media who fulfills Italian philosopher Dante Alighieri's call to be “no timid friend to truth.” And we sure know our Stella is NOT afraid of the truth! I love her column (who doesn't?) with her tagline “Yeah, I said it!” Past recipients include her old boss/mentor Irv Kupcinet, Walter Jacobson, John Madigan, Hugh Hill, Dick Kay, Joan Esposito, Emily Barr, Larry Wert, Joe Ahern, Merri Dee, Dominic Mancuso, Frank Mathie, Vince Gerasole, Blog 3 - Joan Esposito, Mark Giangreco and Janet DaviesJanet Davies, George Caputo, Mark Giangreco, Allison Rosati and Ron Blog 4 - Kathy Brock, Merri Dee and Susanna NegovanMagers. JCCIA's illustrious members include Dominic DiFrisco (President Emeritus), Antonio Romanucci (President) and Jo Ann Serpico (Executive Director). Stella's column has been appearing in the Sun-Times since 2003 every Tuesday and Thursday and we just love her! Congrats on this much-deserved honor Stella! (To view ALL great pics by Steve Starr, please click here!)

Blog 1 - LP Zoo Prez Kevin Bell, co-chairs Susu Meder and Cindy Polayes, Kimbra & Mark Walter, WB Prez Abby Zanarini, John AlexanderThe Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo recently held a Preview Party in the Hilton Chicago’s penthouse to celebrate its upcoming Blog 2 - LP Zoo Prez Kevin Bell and Mark WalterZoo Ball, which is planned for July 13th. It was hosted by Zoo Ball co-chairs Suzanne Meder and Cynthia Ross Polayes. Mark Walter, CEO of Guggenheim Partners (the presenting Blog 3 - Jim and Gayle Anthony with Paul Iaconosponsor of Zoo Ball 2012) and new controlling owner of the LA Dodgers, was in attendance with his wife, Kimbra. Guests sipped on cocktails and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while taking in the spectacular view and toasting to this Blog 4 - Kimbra and Mark Walteryear’s Zoo Ball, themed “The Great Gatsby.” Guests seen on the scene included John Alexander, Kevin Bell, John Fornengo, Gale Gottlieb, Michaela Parrillo, Gayle Anthony, Windy Krimins and Abby Zanarini. This is always a fabulous party with great people watching to benefit Lincoln Park Zoo, the oldest zoo in the country and one of the last free public institutions in America. (For more details, please visit www.lpzoo.org and to view more pics, please click here!)

Blog 1To celebrate a decade online, The Local Tourist is inviting visitors and residents to tour Chicago like a Local Tourist with Passport To Chicago. On June 3, you can enjoy exclusive events and deals at destinations all over Chicago, getting your pages Blog 2stamped at each place you visit. Each Passport comes complete with a CTA day pass and one free ride from Uber, the new car service that’s taking Chicago by storm. Those who purchase their Passports in advance will also get an “I’m A Local Tourist” sling bag for free! Passport To Chicago provides exclusive access to the Official After Party at local hot spot Public House but the Blog 3 - Theresa Carter, foundercelebration doesn’t end there: There are so many places to go and things to do that there's no way to do them all in one day – that's why the Passport To Chicago is good for a whole year! From June 4, 2012 to May 31, 2013, these businesses are offering even more special discounts. All of this exploring is for a good cause since The Local Tourist is donating a portion of every Passport to participating local charities! This all-inclusive package is just $35. For more information on TLTen and Passport To Chicago, including beneficiary charities and businesses, visit www.passporttochicago.com.

Blog 1 - Acclaimed novelist Erik LarsonThe 21st annual Facing History and Ourselves benefit dinner welcomed more than 750 civic and corporate leaders to the Hyatt Regency on May 1st. The event raised over $1.95 million in support of Facing History’s wide-reaching educational Blog 2 - Albert R. Grace, Jr., Board Chair Jill Garling, Director Bonnie Oberman, novelist Erik Larson, Greg Caseprograms and marked the Chicago kick-off of the organization’s nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibition, Choosing to Participate, which will be mounted at the Harold Washington Public Library, located at 400 S. State, from August 27th to November 11th. Co-chairs Blog 3 - Penny Pritzker and Mark Hoplamazianfor the initiative are AON President/CEO Greg Case and Loop Capital Markets CEO Jim Reynolds. Guests enjoyed an evening that began with a reception and cocktails, followed by dinner and a presentation Blog 4 - Greg Case, Jill Garling, Bonnie Oberman, Albert R. Grace, Jr., Judy Wise, Marc Skvirskyby acclaimed novelist Erik Larson, author of “The Devil in the White City” and “In the Garden of Beasts.” The speaking program also included remarks from Facing History Director Bonnie Oberman and Loop Capital Markets Pres/co-founder, Albert R. Grace, Jr. Facing History and Ourselves, which was originally founded in Boston by Margot Stern Strom, established a Chicago office 21 years ago. Co-founded by Blog 5 - FH & O Chicago Director Bonnie ObermanJudy Wise and Karen Harrison, Blog 6 - Ron and Patty Wisethe Chicago office has trained more than 3,000 local educators through its programs since 1990. These teachers annually reach more than 300,000 middle and high school students in over 175 public, religious and independent Chicago schools. (For more info, visit www.facinghistory.org and for additional pics, click here.)
 
Blog 1 - Event chairs Mike and Frances HenkelHubbard Street Dance Chicago hosted its annual Spotlight Ball at the Hilton Chicago with more than 450 of Chicago’s movers and shakers, including the Mayor who served as Honorary Chair. Blog 2 - Dancers Meredith Dincolo and Kellie Epperheimer with the MayorCo-chaired by Craig Duchossois (CEO of the Duchossois Group) and Don Thompson (President/COO of McDonald’s Corp.), this event raised more than $700,000 to support the dance company’s education, community and artistic programming. Emceed by Blog 3 - Board member Joni Jacobsen and husband Craig Coxlongtime supporter, ABC 7’s Ron Magers, the evening kicked off with cocktails and a silent auction that featured a seven-night trip to Brazil. Guests were also treated to a unique performance choreographed Blog 4 - Hubbard St. Board Prez Meg Callahan and husband Timby some of Hubbard Street’s most prominent talents: resident choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo and Taryn Kaschock Russell, director of Hubbard Street 2, followed by a three-course dinner prepared by Hilton Executive Chef Mario Garcia. Don Blog 5 - Advisory Board Chair Sandra Guthman, her husband Jack and Charlene SchrederThompson presented the Spotlight Award to Jeanne and John Rowe, who delivered a powerful speech about the importance of supporting the arts. Target Group VP Mary Farrell-Tarbox accepted a Spotlight Award for her company’s commitment to improving access to the arts. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, under artistic director Glenn Edgerton, celebrates 34 years as one of the most original forces in contemporary dance. (Photos by Bob Carl.)
 
Blog 1 - Tim Smithe, Kyla McCarthy, Police Supt. Garry McCarthy, Tim Jr. and Mary Astor SmitheWalter Smithe, son Tim Smithe and family recently hosted a Kick-Off party at their Lincoln Park showroom to launch the 30-day countdown for “Run Home Chicago,” a race to end homelessness, that will take Blog 2 - Walter E. Smitheplace in Soldier Field on June 10th beginning at 7 a.m. Tim’s fabulous wife, Mary Astor Smithe, was on hand to offer her delicious Chicago Butter Cookies (with a chocolate fountain, no less!) to guests who included Chicago Bears Earl Bennett and Israel Idonije, Eda Davidman, Police Supt. Garry Blog 3 - Mr. and Mrs. Earl BennettMcCarthy and his daughter Kyla, Quentin Primo III, Ravi Baichwal and Susanna Negovan, among many others. Everyone enjoyed lively music, food and drinks donated from local Chicago businesses including Tavern on Rush, Swirlz Cupcakes, Tito’s Vodka, Four Roses Bourbon and Blog 4 - Quenten Primo and friendPRP Wine. “Run Home Chicago” is hosted by the Primo Center for Women and Children, a shelter on Chicago’s West Side that provides transitional housing, counseling and support services to homeless women and their Blog 5 - Cynthia and Bo Ellischildren. The event will honor the Mayor and his wife, Amy Rule, as chairs of the race. Participating in the race will help to raise funds for facilities such as PCWC that provide essential social services to Chicagoans hardest hit by homelessness. (To see ALL fab fotos by Mila Samokhina, please click here and for more info, please visit www.runhomechicago.com.)
 
Blog 1 - Ensemble member-co-founder Gary Sinise plays bass w Lt. Dan BandSteppenwolf Theatre Company hosted more than 500 guests for its annual star-studded gala on May 5th. The event kicked off with a showcase of scenes inspired by the world-premiere production of “The March,” based on the Blog 2 - Gala co-chair-TPN Prez Rich Feitler and Board Chair Nora Daleynovel by E.L. Doctorow, adapted for the stage and directed by ensemble member Frank Galati, and featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Ian Barford, Martha Lavey, Mariann Mayberry, James Vincent Meredith and Alan Wilder. Following the Blog 3 - Stacy Lindau, Susan Kalt, Liz Lefkofsky, Natalie Ginsberg, Anna Shapiro, Deb Hirschfield, Julie Ellisperformance, the party moved two blocks south to Blackhawk on Halsted, a 15,000-square-foot space featuring theatrically-inspired décor by Event Creative and a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline. Blog 4 - Maria Smithburg, Trustee Colette Cachey Smithburg and Jacky FerroThere, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering and the awesome, annual live auction led by auctioneer Michael Davis of Hart Davis Wine Co. It featured once-in-a-lifetime Blog 5 - Jim Epstein, Steppenwolf Artistic Director Martha Lavey and Kelly Epsteinadventures with Steppenwolf ensemble members and artists and included an on-set visit to the hit Starz original drama “Boss,” filmed here in Chicago starring Kelsey Grammer, plus autographed Blog 6 - Ensemble member Amy Morton, Board Chair Doug Brown and Chaz Ebertscripts as a memento of the day; exclusive dinner with comedian Jeff Garlin (star and executive producer of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) with dinner prepared by five-time James Beard Award nominee Chef Michael Kornick; four tickets to the NY opening of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (the 50th anniversary of Blog 7 - Co-chairs Rich and Margery Feitler, Scott and Rita George, John and Carol Walterthe original Broadway production premiere) plus hotel and airfare; and an exclusive evening on the Steppenwolf stage with co-founder Gary Sinise and ensemble member Moira Harris with a gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Charlie Trotter! The Blog 8 - Gary Sinise, Steppenwolf Trustee Sarah Beardsley, Ted Tetzlaffevening wrapped up with dancing and live music by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gala 2012 co-chairs included Richard and Margery Feitler, Rita and Scott George and Carol and John Walter while Liz and Eric Lefkofsky were the Live Auction Sponsors. This year's Gala raised more than $1 million! (To view ALL event pics by Joan Hackett and Kyle Flubacker, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Top Allison Schmitt, Betsy Ahearne, Gigi Johnson, Ann Kasten Front Katherine Veach, co-chair Liz Sharp

The Women’s Board of The Field Museum is raising funds for its annual Women in Science Fellowship with a program and luncheon at the Museum on Wednesday, May 30th. To kick-off this event, members gathered in Blog 2 - Diana Hall (VP Harry Winston), Tonja Hall, Joan Colmarearly April at Harry Winston in Chicago with its VP Diana Hall to view A.V. Shinde’s iconic designs. This year’s event, co-chaired by Liz Sharp and Susan Clark McBride, will showcase the remarkable designs of Shinde, renowned jewelry Blog 3 - Stephanie Ortel, Gigi Johnson, Ann Kastendesigner for Harry Winston from the 1960’s through the end of the century. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. in the James Simpson Theatre with the viewing of a variety of rarely seen Indian artifacts from the Museum’s collections. Program speakers include Reema Keswani (expert on Blog 4 - Dayna Kirk, co-chair Liz Sharp and Betsy AhearneIndian jewelry and the only authorized biographer of A.V. Shinde) and Anthony Ledru (Global VP of Sales at Harry Winston). An Indian-themed luncheon will follow in Stanley Field Hall. This year’s Women in Science Fellowship winner is Field Museum researcher Charlene “Charlie” McCord. (Photos by Steve Starr.) Individual tickets are $125, tables of 10 are $1,250. (For more info, please call 312.665.7135 or email womensboard@fieldmuseum.org.)

Blog 1 - Maestro Chen Apostolic @MLKThe Chicago Sinfonietta will kick off its 25th anniversary with an UnMasked Ball on Saturday, June 2nd, celebrating the Colors of Sounds at the Fairmont Chicago, located 200 N. Columbus Dr. The event will be co-chaired by civic leader Sandra Rand and Maria Green, V.P. General Counsel and Secretary of Ill. Tool Works. The evening will begin Blog 2 - Jim Hirsch, Maria Green, Maestro Chenwith cocktails and an array of one-of-a-kind masks from productions of other Chicago arts organizations including Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, National Museum of Mexican Art, Red Moon Theater, Chicago Dramatists, Muntu Dance and more. The Ball will also feature a full performance of the Chicago Sinfonietta under the baton of Maestro Mei-Ann Chen; Eric Goldberg and Shuya Gong will join the orchestra as featured soloists. (Tickets begin at $400 and are available by calling 312.236.3681, ext. 1559 or by clicking here.)

Blog 1Mark your calendars now for one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year – Glamorama! Coming on Friday, August 10th to the Chicago Theatre at 175 N. State St., this year’s theme Blog 2 - Glam 2011 (Pic by Steve Starr)is “British Invasion: The Music Then. The Fashion Now!” From the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, Macy’s Glamorama 2012 pays homage to some of the world’s most well-known and respected British pop Blog 3 - Highlight of 2011 Macy’s Glam Showicons from the past 50 years. Macy’s Glamorama is an hour-long, high end fashion show and musical production that unveils Macy’s latest fashions but also showcases heart-stopping dance, lush visuals, staging as well as exciting musical performances – I Blog 4 - Glam Fashion 2011 (Pic by Mila Samokhina)will let you know WHO shortly! The event will once again benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Be the first to get your tickets with the American Express Exclusive Pre-Sale from May 30th through June 7th. Ticket prices are $50 and $75 for show only; $175 and $285 for show and after-party; $1,000 for VIP show and after-party. BUT Blog 5 - Glam Finale 2011FIRST, join me and our dynamic Host Committee for another fabulous GLAM LAUNCH PARTY on Friday, June 8th at Greenhouse Loft, located at 2545 W. Diversey Ave. We will have a surprise musical guest, Rosemary Fanti illustrations, fun food, fashion presentations by Elda de la Rosa, Borris Powell, Anna Fong, M2F and Azeeza, photo booth, fabulous Glam guests and so much more!! Please purchase tickets here but to see what you missed at LAST year's Launch Party, please click here.

CineYouth Fest InviteThe Chicago International Film Festival presents CineYouth Festival beginning on May 31st and running through June 2nd. The opening night presentation will be at AMC River East 21, on Thursday, May 31st beginning at 7 p.m. and featuring director Jonathan Levine (“The Wackness,” “50/50”). There will be a screening of selected clips followed by a Q & A with a reception following at Lucky Strike Lanes. (For tickets and more info, please visit www.cinemachicago.org/cineyouth.)

Wisteria picThis has been the busiest month I’ve ever seen on my calendar! From May 4th to May 12th alone, there were more than 15 gala events!! As you can see, I tried to bring the best pics and info from MOST of them to you this week! I hope you enjoyed it and I hope your gardens are flourishing! Our wisteria has never looked lovelier! Happy Spring!
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
Brian Atwood storeP.S. Under the “It’s About Time!” category, proud mom Dusty (Yolanda) Stemer reports that her super handsome, hunky shoe designer son, Brian Atwood, will have his first stand-alone store coming to New York’s Madison Avenue in the fall. I can only imagine the lines! Congrats Brian – we all love you and hope Chicago is NEXT!!! 🙂

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May 3, 2012 · 10:11 am

STARS SHINE IN CHICAGO FOR THE HUGO TELEVISION AWARDS

…PLUS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS’ GRANDE SOIREE, CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY, LADYBUG BASH, A THEATER COMPANY YOU SHOULD KNOW, WTTW DEBUT'S HOT NEW SHOW, NOMI’S HOT LIST HONOR, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Grammer and Mahoney, reunited!Beyond the International Film Festival and now in its 48th year, the Hugo Television Awards is an international television competition that culminated in a grand gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua recently honoring the best television commercials and Blog 2 - Kayte and Kelsey Grammer and Rotimi Akinoshoproductions from nine countries around the world. Co-hosted by Cinema/Chicago and the IFF, the highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to actor Kelsey Grammer. Best known for his award-winning role as Blog 3 - Emcees Val Warner and Ryan ChiaveriniDr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Grammer included video highlights and the award presentation by his longtime "Frasier" co-star, John Mahoney. Earlier in the year, Grammer received the Blog 4 - Hugo founder Michael KutzaGolden Globe for Best Actor in the Chicago-based drama series “Boss” as Mayor Tom Kane. As Dr. Frasier Crane, he played the celebrated character in three television series ("Wings," "Cheers," and "Frasier") for more than 20 years. He’s won four Blog 5 - Top prize winners, OPTIMUSEmmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations and 16 SAG nominations and he is the first actor in TV history to receive multiple Emmy nods for performing the same role on three series! (Not surprising, since he received his training at the prestigious Juilliard School Blog 6 - Rich Varnes, Cynthia King and Dennis Minkelof the Performing Arts.) Michael Kutza, founder and artistic director of Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago IFF, said, “For decades Kelsey Grammer has entertained us — across genres and media he has proven himself to be a remarkable talent. From the Blog 7 - Alex Kopecky, Vivian Teng, Rebecca Fons and Michael Kutzastage to the screen, from behind the camera to our television, Grammer has provided audiences with some of our most beloved, iconic characters. We are thrilled to honor him for his television work at the Hugos.” Judging from the banks of media at the Blog 8event, everyone agreed! We could barely squeeze our Watch312.com cameras onto the red carpet but we managed to get some great interviews with Mahoney, Grammer and Grammer’s “Boss” co-star Rotimi Akinosho. Kelsey was accompanied by his beautiful wife, Kayte (whose name he had tattooed on his abdomen that day to much fanfare), and who is Blog 9expecting twins. She couldn’t have been more gracious and when he was asked what his inspiration was replied, “She is.” They never stopped holding hands and he kissed her at every opportunity. It was so sweet. Following the red carpet, guests were ushered into the ballroom after enjoying a cocktail reception. Blog 10 - John Mahoney, Bob Mills and Merritt PavichevichDarling co-hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (of “Windy City Live”) welcomed the crowd of 400 and introduced event founder, Michael Kutza, who said, “It was funny thinking back to 1965 when Mr. Leo Burnett himself helped me Blog 12 - Boss star Rotimi Akinosho and Michael Kutzastart the TV Festival and to see so many awards going to some fantastic Leo Burnett spots tonight!” Leo Burnett had the most wins of the evening (24), winning Silver Hugos for “Active Duty” (a heartwarming Hallmark commercial) and “Mayhem” Blog 12(a series of Allstate commercials featuring actor Dean Winters). Other top winners included a Gold Hugo for the documentary series, “Have You Heard from Johannesburg” (about anti-apartheid in South Africa) directed by Connie Field. Director Magdalena Lazarkiewicz (“The Deep Blog 13End”) traveled all the way from Poland to receive her Gold Hugo in the Dramatic Series category. David Hyde Pierce also made a surprise video appearance telling Grammer, “I’m so frustrated that you’re there tonight being honored and I can’t stop them!” (He went on to say that he did hope Blog 14 - Tribune and Watch312.com media teamsGrammer ran for office.) Production company powerhouse Optimus won the Commitment to Excellence Award while the Audience Choice award went to Burrell Communications for “A Frosty Affair,” a McDonald’s Nc1commercial about meeting someone special over a McFrappe. The after-party continued in the Felini Bar with everyone from Hugo winners to John Mahoney Nc2taking turns in the photo booth. Event producer Alex Kopecky did a great job putting the whole show together and Carol Fox and Associates’ Carly Leviton and Nick Harkin did an outstanding job as well. I can’t wait to see the surprises Michael Kutza brings to Chicago next! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and be sure to check out our Watch312.com video of this cool event below!)

http://imgsrv.intertechmedia.com/image/flash_players/new_07062010/singleshot_video_16x9.swf?xmlURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_xml.php%3FstationId%3D3301%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&styleXML=http://watch312.com/pages/wtc_PlayWindowPlayer_1766.xml&episodeXML=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fplayer_episode_xml.php%3FvideoEpisodeId%3D39712%26collectionId%3D1766%26stnPageId%3D12044321&emailFormURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Femail.php&embed=yes&autoPlay=no&mute=no&playerUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwatch312.com%2Fpages%2F12044321.php%3FcollectionId%3D1766

Blog 1 - President-CEO Nicolas BosLegendary jewelers, Van Cleef & Arpels, recently hosted “une grande soiree” for 100 lucky Chicagoans to celebrate the opening of their beautiful new boutique in the Drake Hotel. Van Cleef & Arpels’ handsome president/CEO of the Americas and worldwide creative director Nicolas Bos and chic store Blog 2 - Nicolas Luchsinger, MaryAnne Smith, Lesli Falk, Pat Magoon, Sheryl Dyer, Brent Nestordirector Sheryl Dyer were on hand to meet guests and wax poetic about this iconic brand that has been a favorite of celebrities and royalty for decades. Nicolas Luchsinger (VP of retail operations for the Americas), Brent Nestor (senior VP of sales) and Kristina Buckley (VP of communications) also flew in for this grand occasion. For over a century, the Place Vendome location has been at the forefront with a signature style and a mastery of the craft of fine jewelry inspired by the longstanding Blog 3 - Van Cleef’s Kristina Buckley surrounded by models Blog 4 - A table fit for royalty!themes of the House, nature, couture and the arts. I was so proud that Watch312 was the exclusive media outlet for this event. As high-profile guests mixed and mingled in the exquisite jewel box boutique, it was the jewelry that was the star of the night. The pieces are never as they seem, with earrings that can be worn as brooches, necklaces that can be reassembled into bracelets or the famous zip necklace that is an engineering marvel, all of the jewelry is created with extreme attention to detail and of the Blog 5 - ABC 7’s Sylvia Perez and Linda Yu admiring a Van Cleef & Arpels piecehighest quality gems and stones. I was thrilled to wear an exquisite necklace and earring set Blog 6 - Leslie Prizant Goodman and Carol Beitlerfrom Oiseaux de Paradis Volutes collection for the night and felt like Cinderella until the very end when I turned back into a pumpkin. It is true that high jewelry is empowering…I even felt taller. 🙂 The event was co-hosted by the lovely MaryAnne Smith, a champion of the soon-to-be-opened Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Children’s Hospital on June 26th, and Lesli Falk, chair of Children Blog 7 - The Palm Court is transformed by Tom KehoeMemorial’s Medical Research Institute Council. After cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the boutique, guests were led to the Palm Court which had been transformed by Tom Kehoe into a Parisian salon complete with languid models draped over ivory chairs in chic gowns created Blog 8 - Molly Melman, Suzy and Al Friedman, Sherren Leigh and Dr. Julius Fewby French designer Gaspard Yurkievich. In earlier times, women’s fashions were designed to match their jewelry as was the case on this night. Factor models floated around the room showcasing millions of dollars’ worth of exquisite gems to appreciative guests Blog 9 - Heather Farley and Toni Canadaas they sipped champagne in this flower-filled room to the sounds of a string quartet. It was truly surreal. And as if this weren’t enough, we were then ushered into the Gold Coast Room for the main event. Sharp intakes of breath emanated from every guest upon seeing this already magnificent room transformed as if for Queen Blog 10 - Sonya Jackson, Nicolas Bos and Melissa BabcockElizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee dinner! I’ve never seen anything like it. A long, single table was brimming with flowers, candles, crystal and silver while the sparkling chandeliers above had been dimmed and spotlighted with pale colored lights. The room literally glowed…I heard several Blog 12 - Mike and Kathleen Hensonpeople mumbling that “had they known this event would be like this, they would’ve dressed better!” And the menu seemed to be something that would be served at Buckingham Palace, too, beginning with quenelles of Lake Erie Pike, diver scallops, morel mushrooms and Beluga caviar. Main Blog 11 - Rick and Toni Canadacourse: Kobe Filet and foie gras, local farmed asparagus, haricot verts, roasted shallot pommes Dauphines with Bordeaux reduction. Dessert included a trio of miniature desserts, charlotte russe, hand churned salted caramel ice cream and passion fruit crème brulee. (And the sweetest part, pun intended, the plates all carried this message: “To Chicago, Love Paris.”) Wines served featured Pascal Jolivet, Sancerre (Loire France 2010), Chapoutier Blog 13 - The table setting made guests speechless!Estate “La Petite Ruche” (Crozes Hermitage 2007) and, of course, Taittinger Brut La Francaise (Champagne NV).  Guests enjoying the evening and admiring the collections included William Wolf, Martha Melman, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Laura Schwartz, Greg Hyder, Linda Yu, Sylvia Blog 15 - Gerrard Messague, Bridgitte Young, Tom WoodPerez, Suzy and Al Friedman, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Carol Beitler, Heather Farley, Paul Rehder, Greg Hyder, Toni and Rick Canada, Susanna Negovan, Mary and Tim Smithe, Heather Farley, Sherren Leigh and Sonya Jackson among others. The new 1,600-square-foot boutique is designed to resemble a luxurious Parisian apartment in muted shades of white and grey. You have to see it to believe it! Long may you reign Van Cleef & Arpels! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here for more!)

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Blog 1 - Ginger Zee, Kyler Powell and Christian CarabiasChicago’s second annual Red Dress Party was held in the Loop recently at the beautiful Joffrey Towers, located at 10 E. Randolph. More than 300 people donned their favorite red fashions to benefit the Aids Foundation of Chicago and the Equality Project. This party began in the 1990's when two gentlemen who were dating discovered they had both Blog 2contracted HIV/AIDS. They swore to one another they would each wear red dresses to their partner's funeral. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently, there are Red Dress parties all over the U.S. from Seattle to Chicago. The highlight of the evening was a performance by Blog 3 - Dr. Michael O’Meara, Miss Foozie and Margaret O’ConnorBeverly McClellan, who was a contestant in the Final 4 on the first season of the popular NBC show, “The Voice.” “The Voice” introduced Beverly to the world as a singer of stunning power and range comparable to Etta James, Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge to name a few Blog 4 - Happy supporterstalents whose legacies she evokes. The party also included a dramatic aerial act and a decadent VIP Red Carpet reception hosted by the beloved Miss Lucy Foozie. Ginger Zee (“Good Morning America” meteorologist) and actor/singer Christian Blog 5 - Christian Carabias, Elena Samokhina and Beverly McClellanCarabias were the hosts for the evening. Event chair and board president Kyler Ashton Powell sang a memorable duet with McClellan to Cee Lo Green’s “F*ck You” song. Dedicated host committee members included Adiat Baker, Katie Cahnmann, Kyle Hillman, Terrence Blog 6Chappell, Marco Foster, Julianne Glatz, Cece Gonzales, Melinda Joseph, Haley Lertola, Jerry Nunn, Ramsey Jay Prince, Arabel Alva Rosales, Mark Roscoe and Hilary Schwartz. (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here and to donate and learn more about this great cause, please visit www.reddressparty.org.)

Blog 1Don’t miss this year’s second annual Ladybug Bash, “Stars & Cars: Hollywood Through the Ages” on Thursday, May 17th at Grossinger City Autoplex, located at 1530 N. Dayton from 7 to 11 Blog 2 - Atiap.m. This event benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, which was named after a small, brave princess named Atia, a patient undergoing cancer treatment at Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago. Out of concern for the various non-medical necessities of Comer’s Blog 4 - Dina Manzopatients and their families, Project Ladybug Fund was established to help meet some of those needs, in the hopes of improving the lives of patients and their families. The event will include a red carpet reception hosted by Project Ladybug founder Dina Manzo with special guests Ana Belaval (WGN’s “Around Town” reporter), Meg Caswell (host of HGTV’s “Meg’s Great Rooms”), Blog 3Ted Brunson (producer and host of WGN’s “Chicago’s Best,” Alpana Singh (host of WTTW’s “Check Please”), Amber Podell (Ms. Illinois 2012) and Nancy To (Miss Illinois 2012). For tickets and more info, please click here!
 
Blog 1 - Alex Fisher, Marcus Davis, Charley Jordan, Richard EnglingCongrats to the Polarity Ensemble Theatre group on a wonderful production of "Tom Jones" at Wicker Park’s Josephinum Academy. Adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer, the six-week run garnered wonderful Blog 2 - Jon Beal, Ryan Swikle, Evan Voboril, Gary Henderson, Kevin Bishoppress from the Chicago Tribune as well as Time Out Chicago! Polarity Ensemble Theatre was founded in 2004 by Richard Engling, Ann Keen and Irv Gorman with the mission of presenting work consisting of the classic and the brand Blog 3 - Charley’s fan club and Old Town neighborsnew. It is dedicated to working with Chicago area writers and theatre artists. In addition to producing live theatre, Polarity is also a publisher, having produced its first volume of plays in 2006. Its production of "Hamlet" at the Athenaeum Theater prompted the Chicago Reader to name Polarity the 2008 Best Emerging Theatre Company. Congrats to Charley Jordan and the entire, amazing cast! To follow upcoming PET events, please click here!
 
20120416152801ENPRNPRN-CONDE-NAST-TRAVELER-MAY-2012-a-90-1334590081MR-1-220x300More congratulations are in order for the NoMI Spa at the Park Hyatt! Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List – the ultimate insider’s guide to the hottest new hotels, spas and restaurants of the year – has included NoMI Spa in the May issue! To celebrate this recognition, a complimentary glass of champagne will be offered to guests booking spa appointments during the month of May! Just mention #HotList2012 upon booking your appointment! Congrats, congrats, congrats!

Common threads fundraiser invite imageThere are more parties, fundraisers and events coming up this week than I’ve ever seen! Mark your calendars for the following, if you have the energy! 

Thursday May 3rd: Common Threads' “Come Paint It Black Tie” Fundraiser will be held at Nellcote, located at 833 W. Randolph. Tickets are $1,000; visit www.commonthreads.org for more info.
 
JAB InviteSunday, May 6th: Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala will be held at Palmer House Hilton beginning with a 6:30 p.m. performance at the Auditorium Theatre and followed by the Gala Dinner, Arpino Angel Award presentation and Dreesen does sinatracommemorative video salute. For the first time, the Women’s Board will partner with the Junior Auxiliary Board for a Grand Finale Party following in the Empire Room to celebrate the end of the season for all of the dancers. Tickets are $600 for Gala and $110 for the Grand Finale Party; visit www.joffrey.org/gala and www.joffrey.org/grandefinale for more info.
 
Sunday, May 6th: See Tom Dreesen’s “Sinatra” at the Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway, for an evening of standup and storytelling of Sinatra. Tickets are $45; call 773.327.3175.
 
Hubbard-Street-DanceMonday, May 7th: Hubbard St. Dance Chicago’s Spotlight Ball, will take place at the Chicago Hilton. Tickets are $600 by calling 312.553.2000.
 
St. Jude invite imageTuesday, May 8th: St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza (its 50th anniversary!) will take place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Tickets are $350 and includes top chef tastings. Call 773-784-6704 for more info.
 
Jeremy-Irons-current-portrait-624x936Wednesday, May 9th: WTTW/WFMT “The British Are Coming” with emcee Jeremy Irons begins with a 60-minute onstage celebration at the Harris Theater (Chicago Children’s Choir, Joffrey Ballet, Under the Streetlamp, etc.) followed by dinner on the Rooftop Terrace. Tickets are $500; call 773.509.5434 for more info.
 
Hat_luncheon_1331751449Thursday, May 10th: The Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon will take place at the Chicago Club. Tickets are $100; learn more at www.serviceclubofchicago.org.
 
Bill and DonnaThursday, May 10th: Taste for the Arts’ 30th Anniversary Gala will be hosted by Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra, Rick and Deann Bayless at the Harris Theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. Chicago Academy for the Arts students will perform on the Rooftop Terrace featuring “Top Chef” chefs (think Stephanie Izard and Rick Bayless) serving up their specialties. Tickets are $350.
 
FTRI000ZSaturday, May 12th: Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala starts 6:30 p.m. at Hilton Chicago. Tickets to the “Lights Camera, Glamour” homage to the films of Rita Hayworth are $500 and can be purchased at www.alz.org/galas/chicago or by calling 312.335.5768.
 
BMUG-Logo-e1333138753152Saturday, May 12th: RMHC Big Mac Under Glass will be held at the Aragon Ballroom and will star KC & the Sunshine Band. Tickets are $375 at www.ronaldhousechicago.org.
 
Campfire Ball logoSaturday, May 19th: Campfire Ball will take place at Venue One (located at 1044 W. Randolph) from 7 to 11 p.m. benefitting Children’s Oncology Services will serve all of your favorite camp treats including s’mores, grilled cheese and hot dogs, with DJ and campfire sing-a-longs. Tickets are $85 advanced and $100 at the door; call 312.235.6836 for more info.

I hope to see you at one of more of these wonderful events around town! In the meantime, I hope to see you again next week!
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
Colleen Kelly and Catie KeoghP.S. Congrats to my talented and gorgeous friend Colleen Kelly on her new WTTW show, “Family Travel with Colleen Kelly.” The premiere is Friday, May 4th at 8:30 p.m. and is the only show WTTW has chosen for a national launch in 2013! And, if you don’t know, Colleen is Catie Keogh’s sister (“24/7”) – must’ve been something in the water! Congrats to TWO talented and beautiful women in the world of media!!

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April 27, 2012 · 10:57 am

STEPPENWOLF’S AUXILIARY COUNCIL HOSTS RED OR WHITE BALL

…PLUS IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SHOES FOR SERVICE CLUB AND SAKS, NATIONAL PUBLIC HOUSING MUSEUM BENEFIT CELEBRATES TOP PHILANTHROPISTS, DEFENDING HEF ON NATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO, WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Jon Hill, Kim Davis and Dina SearleThe Steppenwolf Theater’s Red or White Ball began as a simple wine tasting party – hence the name “Red or White” – in 2002 but it has now mushroomed into a must-attend event for the young professional crowd. The party at Architectural Blog 2 - The Ones Who Made it All HappenArtifacts on April 13th brought out more than 500 guests for a night of music, dancing, cocktails, food tastings and a silent auction. Ensemble members and honorary co-chairs Lily Mojekwu (star of Steppenwolf’s “fml: how Carson Blog 3 - Kathryn ErbeMcCullers saved my life”) and Robert Schleifer (“The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” star) mingled with guests at the VIP reception along with Kathryn Erbe, star of “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” who also served as honorary chair. Steppenwolf Executive Director David Hawkanson welcomed the crowd and introduced co-chairs Kim Davis, Blog 4 - Lily MojekwuBryce Cooper and Dina Searle. The VIP portion of the evening included gift bags, special access to Steppenwolf artists, delectable tasting stations from Paris Club, ZED451, Fred’s, The Pump Room and drink stations from Barrelhouse Flat and Goose Island Blog 5 - Alena Tsimis and Aleksandra EfimovaBrewery. The party continued in the main room where guests enjoyed signature red or white cocktails with more food samplings from Limelight Catering and a dessert station courtesy Blog 6 - Brooke Eisenmenger (2nd from left) and friendsof Magnolia Bakery. A DJ kept the crowd moving and the photo booth provided memories from the evening. The silent auction was loaded with nearly 70 exciting packages that included a private party on a rooftop garden, a one-night stay and a round of golf at the Grand Geneva Resort plus the highlight, round-trip airfare to NY for a Broadway show plus a taping of “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” Blog 7that sold for $4,700! Other notable guests in attendance included Steppenwolf ensemble member Alana Blog 8Arenas, Fran Guinan, Jon Michael Hill, Mariann Mayberry and James Vincent Meredith, Carrie Coon (currently appearing at Steppenwolf in “The March”), host Finnigan of KISS-FM, ABC-7 reporter Eric Horng, Ben Pritzker, Jason More, Stephanie and Edward Linn, Stephen Cole, Chef Jean Tippenhauer, Chef Tim Graham, Chef Moosah Reaume, Blog 9Kady Yon  and Chef Kate Milashus. Partygoers grabbed late night snacks from the Wagyu Wagon before moving on to the after-party at Lady Gregory’s. The party raised $80,000 Blog 10 - Pioneer Press’ Lee Litas (R) and friendbenefitting Steppenwolf for Young Adults, the theater’s nationally recognized arts education program which annually impacts more than 15,000 students, teachers and families. The Red or White Ball is the primary fundraiser presented by Steppenwolf’s Auxiliary Council, a community of more than 150 dynamic young professionals. Since its inception in 2000, the AC has raised more than $1 million in contributions. (Photos by Kyle Flubaker and Manocam Photography…to view ALL event pics, please click here!)

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Blog 1 - Maria Smithburg, Julie B., Thierry Dahler, Jennifer Lane, Sherrill Bodine and Laurie DavisThe Service Club of Chicago, with hosts Laurie Davis, Susanna Negovan and Maria Smithburg, presented the U.S. premiere of “God Save My Shoes,” a documentary about women and their relationships with Blog 2their shoes starring Kelly Rowland, Fergie, Dita Von Teese, Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik, among others. Producer Thierry Dahler and director Julie Benasra flew in from Paris a night early to attend a Blog 3 - Heather Johnston, Sherry Abrahams and friendsdinner and Q & A with 30 fashionable ladies at Maria Smithburg’s lovely Streeterville apartment. This event was a pre-party for the screening that occurred the following night Blog 4 - Laurie Davis, Lisa Kraus and Jennifer Laneat the AMC Theatre. The film had only been shown in Paris and Dubai before this first U.S. screening. The Service Club of Chicago’s next big event will be the Mad Hatter Luncheon Blog 5 - Nikki Friar, Kathy Piccone, Carol Gipson and Lisa Gordanchaired by member Sherry Lee Holson at the Chicago Club on Thursday, May 10th. This event will include guest speakers and a hat contest; tickets are $100. The SC, one of Chicago’s oldest charitable organizations founded in 1890, donates 100 percent of money raised to its grant program which distributes funds to numerous non-profits around town.
 
Blog 1 - Winners Julia Douglas and Colleen RichardsonSaks Fifth Avenue hosted one of the best in-store events I’ve attended in a long, long time. Watch312.com was the media sponsor for the evening and I emceed the “Well-Heeled Blog 2 - Allison Cortes (middle), Jen Hardin (R) and friendsWalk-Off” contest with “DishIT” host Amanda Puck serving as a judge along with Saks’ director of marketing Julie Selakovich and Francesca Moceri from Chicago Children’s Charities. (CCC received a portion of the proceeds from the evening as the event beneficiary.) The contestants tested out all of their best moves on the runway from Blog 3dancing to model poses inspired Blog 4 - With Julia Douglas, Colleen Richardson, Julie Selakovich and Amanda Puckby Zoolander. It was a riot and everyone had tons of fun all competing to win a pair of coveted Jimmy Choo shoes. In the end, two dynamic women scored perfect 10s from each judge to compete in the final walk-off. Everyone in the third floor 10022-SHOE Salon had chosen their favorite pairs that Blog 5 - Caitlin Saville Collins (2nd from R) and friendsincluded sky-high heels to sequined ballet flats but only two ladies strutted their way to Blog 6perfect scores. Julia Douglas and Colleen Richardson worked the crowd into a frenzy trying to win their chosen shoes…and when I asked for a show of applause from the crowd to see who they thought was the winner, it seemed to be a tie. It was all up to the judges now as they huddled together for the final decision. And THEY BOTH WON!!! It was a wise decision that brought a huge cheer from the Choo-loving crowd. Congrats to Julie Selakovich on a wonderful event for a great cause! Check out the fun on Watch312.com below and view more fun fotos here! 🙂

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Blog 1 - Keynote speaker Steve PembertonI attended a lovely event at Salvage One recently benefitting the National Public Housing Museum. The keynote speaker was Steve Pemberton, chief diversity officer and divisional vice president for Walgreens and Blog 2 - NPHM President-CEO Keith L. Mageeauthor of “A Chance in the World: An Orphan Boy, a Mysterious Past, and How He Found a Place Called Home.” I highly recommend this book – it’s an inspirational story that crosses generations and cultures but specifically speaks to those who have had the odds stacked Blog 3 - Co-chairs Greg Cameron, Scott Ammarell, Pam Cullerton, Joyce Chou, NPHM Prez Keith Mageeagainst them. (Steve is a fascinating man who spent most of his young life in foster care.) Three renowned philanthropists were also honored including Ford Foundation president Blog 4 - Founding Chair and Atlanta Housing Authority President-CEO Renee GloverLuis Ubinas, president of the Ford Foundation, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter and founder of Universal Companies Kenny Gamble and MacArthur Foundation VP Julia Stasch. Chaired by Greg Cameron, Reuben Cannon, Pam Cullerton and Regina Taylor, the event was “An Afternoon of Good Times” Blog 5 - Keeper of the Vision and Boeing Co. Director Nora Moreno Cargiethat raised money for the National Public Housing Museum coming to the site of the Jane Addams Homes on W. Taylor Street in June. The Museum is dedicated to interpreting the American experience in public housing from across the nation. (For more info, please visit www.nphm.org.) I loved Greg Cameron’s closing remarks: He quoted Winston Churchill, saying, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Amen to that, Greg! (Photos courtesy of Brian Powers of B. Powers Photography.)

Blog 1 - WBEZ host Steve EdwardsThanks to “Windy City Live” for having me back to discuss upcoming events! Check out the fun surprise at the end, too! (See video below.)  Also, special thanks Blog 3to WBEZ/National Public Radio for my recent interview with Steve Edwards, host of “The Afternoon Shift.” I shared the airwaves with Steven Watts, professor of history at the University of Missouri and author of “Mr. Playboy, Hugh Hefner and the American Dream” and DePaul professor Carolyn Bronstein, author of “Battling Pornography: The American Feminist Anti-Pornography Movement, 1976-1986.” It was a fun time talking about my Playboy days and defending Hef from the feminists…which seems to be an ongoing battle that just won’t go away…listen here and see the Windy City Live segment below!

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Blog 2 - With Hillary Sawchuk and Kelly KaneAnd another thank you shout-out to Hillary Sawchuk and Kelly Kane of “Drink With Chicago” for another fun interview at RL! We discussed everything from, “Did I date Hef?” to “What’s the best way to meet the right guy?” Thanks to photographer Natalie Probst for the wonderful photos, too! Check out the article here!
 
That’s all for this week but I hope to see you here same time next week! In the meantime, enjoy this popular video about just how far a little creativity can go! 🙂

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

PsP.S. Are you following the Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Childrens’ Countdown? The world’s largest House will be opening on June 26th and, so far, has had lots of familiar faces participate in the countdown including Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Jonathan Toews and Brent Seabrook of the Blackhawks, actor Colin Egglesfield, former Chicago Bear Greg Olsen, pro golfer Chip Beck, former “Bachelorette” Jen Schefft, Lisa Dent and Ramblin’ Ray on US99.5 mornings, ABC-7 sports’ Mark Giangreco, Stefen Holt and Alicia Roman from NBC5 and Chef Art Smith, Jesus Salguiero and Linda O’Keefe of Common Threads! Check here to see who is represented today! Can’t wait to celebrate the World’s Largest Ronald McDonald House!

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April 10, 2012 · 10:34 am

FLEUROTICA: GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY’S FLOWER-FILLED & FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ALLIUM’S OPENING (REALLY THIS TIME, NO KIDDING!), JOFFREY’S GRAND GALA, KELSEY GRAMMER’S HUGO HONOR, BEBE’S FIRST BRIDAL SHOP, EVENING IN BLOOM, BIRTHDAY SHOUT-OUTS, COMMON THREADS’ COME PAINT IT BLACK TIE GALA, “ROUTE 66” FLOWER POWER, MERCHANDISE MART’S GLOBAL ANTIQUE SHOW AND TWO NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS!
 
Blog 1 - Event Chair Richard Wester, GPC Alliance President Eunita Rushing and emcee LeeAnn TrotterIf you missed this year’s fourth annual Fleurotica Fashion Show, please put it on your calendars NOW for next year! I’ve never seen anything quite like this show which benefitted Garfield Park Conservatory with all of the designs created from Blog 2flowers, leaves, moss and any other type of plant material imaginable. The backstage action was almost as exciting as the runway with designers scrambling to get the last petal glued on before the show began. I loved seeing the stunning wedding gown floating down the runway by Flower Petal. The Virgin Mary was certainly a show-stopper too with the model Blog 3 - Winning designer, Lance Larsenclasping her hands in prayer before she walked off the stage. And the tulip skirt was too darling for words by Whole Food Market South Loop. But I’m getting ahead of myself…the cocktail reception was delightful, too, with some of the best food tastings I’ve sampled in a long, long time. Marcello’s served turkey, Blog 4 - Judges Dennis Remer and Borris Powell having fun!artichoke and sun-dried tomato paninis. Phil Stefani’s was dishing out delicious Korean noodles with bok choy and mushrooms in a soy-ginger sauce. Kenmare Catering couldn’t keep the blue shrimp coming fast enough! One of the highlights was Goose Island’s Blog 5 - Designer Peach Carrclever food and beer pairings: Pulled pork was infused with their latest brew called Pepe Nero and salmon was soaked in Sofie beer. Beyond Events was serving six kinds of bruschetta and Wishbone Restaurant had a line every time I looked so I’m not sure what they were serving! A five-piece band, Visions, played while guests perused the extensive silent auction Blog 6 - Event Creative’s Sean Cannon (2nd from R) and friendsofferings. Soon, we were all summoned to the second level of Venue One where the show was about to begin. Participating designers included Flower Child, A Stem Above, Zuzu’s Petals, Ildiko Blog 7 - Iron Florist competitors Peter Vrotsos and Matt BarrettPhillips Designs, Natural Beauties Florals, Luxe Floral Chicago, Flower Petal, Anna Held, Scarlet Petal, Blumgarten & Co., Stem Line, Green Jean’s and Whole Foods Market South Loop. Even real life fashion designer Peach Carr showed a stunning creation titled “Driving Miss Daisy” to wild applause, with styling and makeup by AJ’s Salon (who was there filming his Blog 8“Chicagolicious” reality show). Judging was difficult with all of the breathtaking designs but Borris P
owell, Dennis Remer, Christy Webby and Adam Schwerner seemed to have a lot of fun doing it and awarded “Best in Show” to Blumgarten & Blog 9Co.’s Lance Larsen. Darling LeeAnn Trotter (NBC 5 entertainment reporter) returned as emcee this year and did a great job, of course! Who doesn’t love LeeAnn?! She introduced the president of Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Eunita Rushing, who reminded us that all proceeds from this event will help to rebuild the roof of the Conservatory which was Blog 10 - Nena Ivon (R) and frienddamaged by a freak hailstorm last summer. (Sixty percent of the roof was destroyed in the Fern Room, Show House and Desert House.) There was also a live auction that included a Jamaican getaway that sold for $2,500, a Chicago Stay-Cation that sold for $1,750, and a Taste of Chicago package and a yacht experience that included dinner for eight – all included in the more than $80,000 that was raised for the Conservatory. Opened in 1908 and designed by noted landscape architect Jens Jensen, the Garfield Park Conservatory is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Please see my fun Watch312.com video below and to see ALL event photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here! (For more info, please visit www.garfieldconcervatory.org.)

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Blog 1 - Bill Kurtis, Jeff Garlin, Donna LaPietraThe recent grand opening party for the new Allium restaurant attracted an overflow crowd of 600 foodies and fashionistas to the seventh floor of the Four Seasons recently. Host for the night was funnyman Jeff Garlin (see our Blog 2 - Host Vince Anzalone, Erica Bethe Levin, Jessica Zweig and friendinterview on Watch312.com below). This American restaurant with a farm-to-table menu is by Chef Kevin Hickey whose inspiration was his multi-cultural neighborhood in Chicago where he grew up. Blog 3 - Jesus Salguiero and Linda O’KeefeThe menu features Tallgrass beef (in a brilliant collaboration with CBS’ Bill Kurtis), game bird sausage, suckling pig flat bread, Wagyu beef short-rib sliders, bison tartare, Chicago-style hotdogs, Wisconsin walleye, chorizo cheese chips, oysters, lamb neck Blog 4 - Lakesha and Jim Rose with Linda O’Keefeagnolotti and crab fritters to name just a few of the delicious offerings. Allium, a name derived from Latin origins, meaning “onion,” pays homage to Chicago whose name comes from the Native American “Shikaakwa” or “wild onion.” The restaurant’s beverage program also echoes the restaurant’s commitment to American artisan producers. The beer list is strictly Midwestern, including the limited-release Allium Blog 5 - With Vince Anzalone, Vonita Reescer, Diana Palomar and Lonnie RodriguezRoseus, a Belgian red ale created by Chef Hickey and Goose Island’s head brewer, Jared Rouben. The entire renovation of the Four Seasons by Brayton Hughes is one of relaxed elegance with artwork fit for a Blog 6 - Chef Kevin Hickey and host Jeff Garlinmuseum including several Warhols. It’s a must-go! I was proud to be a co-host along with Monika Dixon, Toni Canada, Alexis Cozzini, Vince Anzalone, Lonnie Rodriguez, Jerry Azumah and Susanna Negovan. I hope you enjoy my Watch312.com video of this fabulous night in Chicago! (For more info, please visit www.alliumchicago.com and to see ALL event photos, please click here!)

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Blog 1I am so excited to share the news about this year’s Joffrey Ballet Celebration Gala on Sunday, May 6th at the historic Palmer House Hilton, located at17 E. Monroe. This year’s event will be a tribute Blog 2to the Joffrey’s dynamic Women’s Board who have raised a staggering $16 million in ten years for the Joffrey, making them the largest single contributor to this organization! The night will begin with a special performance at the Auditorium Theatre beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Afterwards, trolleys will whisk guests to the Palmer House where a cocktail reception will begin in the State Ballroom around 7:30 p.m. The Rich Daniels Orchestra will provide elegant background music to start our evening off in style. A special commemorative tribute video will be presented by co-chair Donna LaPietra of Kurtis Productions with a very clever surprise thrown in. The Arpino Angel Awards will be given to the Blog 3producers of the film “Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance” and they include Jay Alix, Una Jackman and Erica and Harold Ramis. And for the first time, we are partnering with the Joffrey Auxiliary Board for an exciting “Grand Finale” party in the Empire Room. For this part of the evening (starting at 8 p.m.), tickets will be sold online ($95) and also sold at the entrance ($110) and will include a DJ, fun food, raffle prizes and more.  If you buy your ticket for the Grand Finale party online, you can also see the performance! I hope I will see ALL of you there! For Gala tickets/info and Grand Finale tickets/info, please click here! (I am thrilled to be a chair along with Helen Melchior. Our co-chairs are Joan Colmar, Mary Jo Basler, Donna LaPietra, Leslie Hindman, Jan Melk, Mary Pat Burns, Victoria Holdren, Pamella Roland DeVos, Nancy Gottlieb Bauer, Liz Sharp, Kate Benson and Anne Kaplan.)
 
Blog 1 - Days of Our Lives cast Bill and Susan Hayes, Matthew AshfordChicago’s springtime coming out party, “An Evening in Bloom,” previewed at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show on March 9th at Navy Pier. Twenty-five stylized gardens were featured this year with proceeds benefitting Chicago Gateway Green and Friends Blog 2 - CFGS Tony Abruscato and Jenny Pickfordof the Parks. In keeping with this night’s theme, which reflected the influence of fashion and design in floral, plant and landscape creations, models strolled through the show wearing new creations by local young designers from the Chicago Fashion Incubator. Cast members from the NBC daytime drama “Days of Our Lives” had a featured garden in the show and greeted guests as they sampled fine Blog 3wines and hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Dirk’s Fish and Gourmet Shop and Cyrano’s Bistrot Wine Bar, among others. Highlights from this year’s show featured a White House vegetable garden and a lifestyle rooftop garden. Co-chairs for this night were Lee and Sandy Golub. If you missed this delightful show that serves as our harbinger of spring, be sure to mark your calendars for next year!
 
Bebe P1030287Don’t miss bebe’s first bridal salon in the U.S. at 109 E. Oak St.! Designer Rami Kashou (a “Project Runway” finalist and “All-Star” contestant) created a collection that Rami Kashoucovers all price points and is modern, glamorous and feminine. His exquisite couture styling uses luxurious fabrics such as silk taffeta, silk stain, charmeuse, georgette, organza and chiffon to offer something for even the most finicky bride-to-be! I interviewed him for an upcoming new segment on Watch312.com called “Candid Candace Recommends” and you will soon see why! (I will also be offering a $150 gift certificate for our Watch312 VIP Club in the segment so please look for it!) 🙂

Dt_common_streams_StreamServerCinema/Chicago and the Chicago International Film Festival will present actor Kelsey Grammer, currently starring in STARZ’ hit show, “Boss,” with the Career Achievement Award at the 48th Hugo Television Awards Ceremony on April 19th at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago. Hosts will be Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini of "Windy City Live." Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Kelsey Film Fest Founder Michael Kutza (photo by Patrick McDonald)Grammer will include highlights from his illustrious television career in addition to the Career Achievement Award presentation. Grammer has won four Emmys, two Golden Globes, a SAG Award, an unparalleled 16 Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations, 16 SAG nominations and NOW a Hugo! Awards will also be presented to the year’s winning television commercials and productions, as well as the Commitment to Excellence Award to OPTIMUS. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at www.chicagofilmfestival.com or by calling 312-683-0121.

Blog 1“Come Paint it Black Tie” on Thursday, May 3rd, for Common Threads' elegant benefit as they merge classic rock ‘n’ roll vibes (music by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound) with an upscale black-tie dinner created by some of the nation's finest celebrity chefs. Culinary rock star chefs Jose Blog 3 - Jesus, Linda and ArtGarces, Bill Telepan, Paul Kahan, Marc Vetri, Jared Van Camp and Michael Laiskonis will serve an iconic menu at Chicago’s newest hotspot, Nellcôte, located at 833 W. Randolph. Chef Jared Van Camp and his Element Collective team created Nellcôte, a mirror of Villa Nellcôte, an ornate 16-room mansion on the waterfront of Ville Franche-sur-Mer in the Côte d'Azur region of southern France. The evening’s theme originated from the Rolling Blog 2Stones album “Exile on Main Street,” which was recorded at the villa during the summer of 1971. Come join CT’s Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero along with Executive Director Linda O’Keefe as they take you on another exciting culinary journey to benefit Common Threads! (For more info and tickets, please click here!)

Antique show invite1The International Antiques Fair is coming back to town on April 27th with more than 100 dealers from around the world! The Private Preview Party will kick-off this event which runs through April 30th at the Merchandise Mart from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event will benefit the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and will feature live music, refreshments and early bird shopping. For more info and tickets, please click here.

Screen%20shot%202011-12-20%20at%2011.53.01%20AMThe Garden Guild of Winnetka will host “Route 66 – A Garden Club of America Flower Show” on May 16th and 17th.  The show will interpret this iconic piece of American history with floral designs, horticulture and photography. More than 75 entries from the Garden Guild and other GCA clubs will incorporate a theme of the historic Route 66 highway, also known as America’s Main Street. Built in the late 1920’s, this highway stretched from downtown Chicago more than 2,000 miles westward to California. To “get your kicks,” please click here.

Blog 1 - Birthday boy Paul IaconoAnd now for some birthday wishes! Man-about-town with a real job, Paul Iacono, celebrated his birthday on March 29th, with an intimate dinner for friends at RPM Italian Blog 2 - Jennifer Sutton, Paul and Rachel SchwanzRestaurant. Guest Rachel Schwanz of The Entertaining Company did an outstanding job of decorating the private room with beautiful flowers and candlelight much to the delight of Blog 3 - Monika Dixon, Saira Cooper and Rhonda SandersonGayle and Jim Anthony, Saira and Chris Cooper, Rhonda Sanderson (who was also celebrating a birthday), William Holdeman, Jennifer Sutton, Cindy Burns, Paul’s sweet dad Ralph Iacono, Monika and Geoff Dixon, Eva Pawlus, Diana Iacono and Cadey and Andrew Hershoff. May it never end, Paul! 🙂 (To see ALL party pics, please click here!)

Hedwig and Bob at BDAnother birthday shout-out goes to the ageless, beloved and beautiful Hedwig Golant! Her unique party was held at Ten Pin, where guests tested their bowling skills…some were good, some not so good but everyone had a great time! Love you, Hedwig!

I’m begging you, PLEASE send me to All-Stars!Dear friend and all-around terrific designer, Peach Carr, needs your help! Please tweet and Facebook your friends and ask them to help make her a “Project Runway All-Star” for next season. She sure deserves it! Please vote here, it’s so easy!

WHEW, that’s a lot of news this week! I hope you’re all enjoying the first signs of spring and that you will visit me again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

GocaP.S. Don’t miss designers Omar Villalobos and Gordana Rasic’s fall/winter fashion show, “The Elegance of Maturity” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, April 13th at Room 1520, located at 1520 W. Fulton. Both emerging designers have shown during NY Fashion Week and are officially launching their collection here in Chicago! A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Arts of Life. For tickets and more info, please click here! Congrats, Omar and Gordana!

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