Tag Archives: TCW Magazine

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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March 25, 2013 · 12:24 pm

“INSPIRING FASHION” COSTUME BALL: EVERYONE WAS A STAR!

…PLUS "FACE THE FUTURE" FOUNDATION GALA; URBAN GATEWAYS’ “ART FOR ALL;” A BELOVED PR FIRM’S BIG KUDOS;“CELEBRATE YOURSELF HEALTHY;” GIULIANA AND LINDSAY'S BIG IDEA; A MODERN DAY LOVE STORY; CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; MADHATTER’S BRUNCH FOR BROADWAY YOUTH CENTER; A SAD GOODBYE; WCIU VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Model Pat Cleveland chats with Hamish BowlesIt was one of the most beautiful events I’ve attended. Every guest who came through the front door of the Chicago History Museum looked like they were stepping out of the pages of Vogue – even emcee Bill Zwecker agreed
2 - A dreamy, floral bridal gown by Ungaro (1996-97)saying, “In all of the years, I don’t think I’ve seen a more glamorous, fashionable crowd.” From the moment you entered the building, you knew you were going to witness history. Beautiful models were stationed at every turn wearing the most dramatic fashions from the legendary Ebony Fashion Fair collection. They lined the staircases, draped languorously against
3 - Awe-inspiring décor by Tom Kehoethe walls and modeled on pedestals set up throughout the room. It was one night where you knew you had to find your best stuff to wear. Black tie wasn’t simply a suggestion – it was a mandate and everyone
4 - Costume Council President Nena Ivon (pic by Bob Carl)dressed to impress. Eunice Johnson’s eye was unerring and she gravitated towards the bold and dramatic, much like I suspect she was as a person. After all, one would have to be to become the trailblazer she was for the African American community. She introduced
5 - Neiman Marcus’ Wendy Krimins and Tina Koegel host a group of glam friends (Pic by Bob Carl)high couture to people who wouldn’t have otherwise seen it across the country and in spectacular fashion. She utilized top models who also represented her own sensibilities…other trailblazers like Iman and Pat Cleveland, two
6 - Artist Nick Cave (R) and friend (Pic by Bob Carl)of the first black supermodels. Pat Cleveland attended this event and I saw her as she entered the building: It was like I was watching a film in slow motion because she didn’t really walk in…she glided. (Her swanlike neck was still the same as I remembered it in all
7 - Ikram Goldman and Morris Gearringof the top fashion magazines.) And that dress! OMG! It was pale pink with a train that stretched forever but she didn’t seem to notice. I would’ve been screaming at people to “watch my train” – the true mark of an amateur – but not Pat: As she posed for photos, you sensed a life in front of the cameras, someone completely comfortable in her own skin. Vogue’s international editor-at-large Hamish Bowles spotted
8 - Zac Stemer, Corri McFadden and Toni Canadaher, too (everyone did), and rushed to her side. As they chatted about goodness knows what, flashes were going off like crazy. It was definitely a “moment,” one of many for this fashion event of the season. One of
10 - Jasmine Mickael Jordan, Merri Dee and Juanita Jordanmy favorite photogs, Bob Carl, was shooting this event and he told me not to miss the dramatic décor in the big tent where we would soon be dining so I headed downstairs and my breath rushed out of my body. Truly, I’ve never seen a more elegant room…all
9 - George Fuller (2nd from L) with glam friendsdone in shades of purple, design guru Tom Kehoe had truly outdone himself this time! From the “upside-down orchids” hung in huge squares at every table to the chandelier within a chandelier within another chandelier hanging from the
11 - Loved this 1986 Jean Patou evening ensemble!draped ceiling, you just didn’t know where to look first. As a matter of fact, when guests streamed in later, there was a huge bottleneck at the door as guests stood gaping. And this was all BEFORE I saw the amazing exhibition featuring more than 60 fashions from
12 - Julie Selakovich and Lynne Bredfeldtthe Ebony Fashion Fair! OMGoodness! Well, you’ve probably seen a lot of photos by now since I know people were posting and Instagramming like crazy while I was there and for good reason: These were some of the top pieces from the couture collection of Eunice Johnson and the Fashion Fair and they were awe inspiring in both their drama and creativity. My favorites were the Givenchy silver raffia
13 - 1987 Emanuel Ungaro evening gownevening gown from 1997; the Christian Lacroix cocktail ensemble; the Jean Patou day ensemble (I would KILL for this outfit!); B Michael’s rainbow dress (he was there and so proud, and rightfully so!); Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld’s “shower dress”; Bob
14 - Rich and Melissa Gamble and friendsMackie’s evening ensemble with white feathers and silver beads; Henry Jackson’s black and white ball gown; and Emanuel Ungaro’s floral bridal gown from 1996. (Insert long, loving sigh here…) When guests finally sat down for dinner, emcee Bill Zwecker thanked the crowd and introduced Costume Council president Nena Ivon, who thanked the co-chairs and told an
15 - Entrance making gown by Louis Feraud (1997-98)adorable story about Tom Kehoe. She said, “We stayed within budget for our décor but Mr. Kehoe decided it wasn’t
16 - Jim Smith (L), Greg Hyder and friendenough, so he did more.” How cool is this guy?! When honorary chair for the event, Linda Johnson Rice, was finally introduced the standing ovation was thunderous. She was beautiful from head to toe with a twinkle in her eye that drew you in and everyone loved hearing the story behind this exhibition and how her mother put together this awe-inspiring collection. Linda also gave a shout-out to curator Joy Bivins and to
17 - Upside-down orchid presentationDan Oliver saying, “He designed everything you see here – he knew my mother’s vision.” The Ebony Fashion Fair travelled across the country for 50 years raising
18 - Chuck with David Brandt and Tony Rossimillions for African American charities.  No one wanted the evening to end so DJs Kiss and Moss made sure guests danced, danced, danced the night away at yet another fabulous party in our Windy City…truly the FIRST city of fashion! (View more photos from this fab evening here!) 
 

1 - Israel Idonije, BMO Harris CEO Ellen Costello, Gala Co-Chair Michael JudgeTransporting guests back to a time when all was glittering and decadent, the grand ballroom of the Four Seasons was decked out in Roaring Twenties décor for the Face the Future Foundation’s gala “Flappers, Fedoras and All That Jazz: A Night on the Toddlin' Town.” Guests
2 - Paul Colando, Jackie James, Tracey Guerin, Andrew Dennischanneled the fashion sensibilities of the decade with gals in beaded headpieces, lace and fringed dresses adorned with long strands of pearls while guys sported fedoras and bow ties. Two massive Art Deco vases filled with white ostrich plumes graced the entrance of the foyer. Co-chairs Mary Genet and
3 - Dr Maria Horvat, Jackie KohlmannMichael Judge welcomed more than 300 guests to this elegant affair that included an extensive silent auction and “gambling” at “Jimmy’s Place Casino.” Honorary Chair Chicago Bear Israel “Izzy” Idonije arrived looking dapper as always in a black suit and white shirt topped with a fedora. Other
6 - Michael Lamm, Pilar Mercadoguests included Dr. Mimis Cohen and his wife Andrea Biel Cohen, Dr. Paula Allen-Meares, Dr. Joe "Skip" Garcia, Dr. Dimitri Azar and Dr. Enrico Benedetti. As the doors swung open at 8:00 p.m., guests oohed and ahhhed over the softly lit golden hued décor while the Stanley Paul Orchestra played the tunes of the era from the Charleston to the Foxtrot in the
4 - Sally & Dr Joe Skip Garcia, Andrea & Dr Mimis Cohen, Carla & Dr Enrico Benedettibackground. Emcee Dr. Sandra Goldberg of NBC 5 Chicago, welcomed guests and introduced Izzy. Foundation President Gus Abello presented the President’s Award to Jim Staples for his fundraising efforts and support of the Foundation. A live auction included a Venice/Paris
5excursion of 11 days/10 nights with two nights in Venice, then overnight on the Orient Express into Paris to enjoy a full week in a luxurious Paris apartment (AWESOME!); an idyllic escape to Virgin Gorda, BVI, to spend a week at the Bitter End Yacht Club (I love Dana Hokin Garvey and her fabulous family who created this
7 - Mary Genet, Bob Grahamamazing oasis); a romantic getaway with a Polynesian flair to the South Pacific for a Tahitian cruise aboard the small luxury ship m/s/ Paul Gauguin; and a wine cellar with more than 100 bottles of premium wines and champagne. The item that drew particularly fierce but friendly bidding was the week in a Tuscan villa for 12 people and a private chef. The generous donor of the villa offered the three top bidders the opportunity to each enjoy their own week. The live auction raised more than $100,000 with
8 - Isabelle & Gus Abello, Tina Abelloanother $60,000 in revenue coming from the Paddle Raise. (Event proceeds topped $340,000.) Michigan Avenue Magazine was the media sponsor for this wonderful event that raises funds and public awareness to support the care and treatment of children born with cleft lip, palate and other craniofacial abnormalities. The Center at UIC is one of the oldest and largest facilities of its kind in the USA. Click here for more info. (Photos by Jon Recana.)
 

1 - Eunita Rushing, Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance president, her daughter Regina Rushing, guest and Ina BurdUrban Gateways’ Art for All Gala was held March 8th at City Winery Chicago and attracted more than 300 people. Many prominent Chicago business and civic leaders attended including
2 - Honorary Chairs Jim and Kay Mabie with Eric Delli BoviKay and Jim Mabie (who served as honorary chairs for the event), Francee Harrington, Richard Dent, Eunita Rushing and an honorary/advisory committee that included
3 - Richard Dent and Diana PalomarCheryl Mayberrry McKissack and Eric McKissack, Susan and Nick Pritzker and Dawoud Bey. This enchanting, art-filled evening supported Urban Gateways, one of the largest arts service providers in the city. Programs are led by some of the city’s most
4 - Students performing from an Urban Gateways programtalented professional artists in music, dance, theater, literary arts, visual arts and digital media, serving 57,000 students and teachers annually. The evening included cocktails, dinner, auction prizes and live performances by Urban Gateways performing groups: 20th Century Players and Chicago Improv Productions plus a special percussion performance by high school students from an Urban Gateways after-school program, a
5presentation by Urban Gateways digital media student/filmmaker Michael Coleman and a gallery of
6 - Shundrawn Thomas and friendincredible student artwork. Urban Gateways educates and inspires young people by delivering high-quality, accessible arts experiences that advance their personal and academic growth. (For more info, please click here!) 
 

1 - Kathleen Henson and her winning teamHuge congrats to Kathleen Henson and Henson Consulting, Inc.! They were honored with THREE national public relations awards for non-profit communications account work recently at the 2013 PR News Nonprofit PR Awards luncheon at the National Press Club in
2 - RMHC-CNI “Champs for Charity”(Henson Consulting won for Fundraising)Washington, D.C. Henson Consulting, which celebrates its 12th anniversary this year, won in the high-profile Fundraising category, as well as in the areas of Event PR and PR on a Shoestring Budget. “Nothing is more gratifying than the work we do for our nonprofit
3 - Giselle Performance--“Paris at the Harris” (Henson won for PR on a Shoestring Budget)clients,” said HC founder and CEO, Kathleen Henson. “By extending the reach of some of the country’s top charities and arts institutions, both locally and nationally, we’ve had the honor and privilege of being an integral part of
4 - Jane Seymour’s “Open Hearts” Foundation (Henson won for Event PR)supporting families with sick children, creating awareness for amazing cultural experiences, and raising the profile of open hearted individuals among us. It is the most fulfilling work that we do as a firm, and to be honored for excellence
5 - Mayor Emanuel speaking at “Paris at the Harris” ballet premierein this area is very, very special.” In 2011 in honor of the company’s 10th anniversary, Henson created a new division of Henson Consulting called HC3. This practice area is dedicated to providing public relations, marketing and communications support for organizations, companies and individuals that are “doing good while
6 - RMHC-CNI’s “Champs for Charity” press conferencedoing well.” The client roster of HC3 also includes high-profile charitable work for TV personality Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue (supporting autism awareness), Bright Pink and Giuliana Rancic’s Fab-U-Wish (providing support to women battling breast
7 - Jane Seymour and Glenn Campbell at “Open Hearts” fundraiserand ovarian cancer), Greg Olsen’s Kicks for a Cure (supporting breast cancer research) and Camp Kesem (providing magical camp experiences for children whose parents were touched by cancer), among others. Congrats to Kathleen and her team on these much deserved honors! 🙂
 

1 - Jon Cotay and Shea VaughnMarch 9th was a memorable evening for fitness and health maven Shea Vaughn and the dedicated friends and supporters of her cause, Healthy Initiative. “Celebrate Yourself Healthy” took place at Germania Place with hundreds of guests to honor the cause and its mission to promote better health
3 - Lisa Lockwood, Bill Walsh and Maralyn Owen (Kasia Jarosz photo)practices and fight disease. The launch of Healthy Initiative started with forty participants challenged to transform themselves in 90 days with the help nutritionists, personal trainers, mentors and lifestyle regimes. For those
2 - Jeff Conway, Ashley Ferrara, Chris Foltz (Kasia Jarosz photo)people, March 9th was their special day, too: Each was showcased in designs from J-Na Couture and Mark Roscoe with hair by Custom Hair Lounge and makeup by Josie Volpentesta and Brenda Arelano. The night was hosted by Jeff Conway
4 - Kerry Knee, Shea Vaughn, Krista Knee (Larry Engelhardt photo)of NBC’s 24/7, Jon Cotay of Akira and success coach Bill Walsh. This exciting evening included hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, live entertainment by David Rothstein Music, opera by reigning Miss Heart of Illinois Marisa Buchheit, laughter by comedian and writer Jennifer Weigle and a special key note speech by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, bestselling author of “Eat to Live” and wellness advocate often seen on “The Dr. Oz Show.” TCW Magazine was the media sponsor. Congrats on a great event Shea! For more info, please visit healthyinitiative.org.
 

1 - A romantic “Gone With the Wind” moment!“Cutest Couple” alert! Please add Kyla McCarthy and Tim Smithe, Jr. to the list of high profile cuties who are tying the knot this summer! Their blow-out engagement party attracted hundreds of fun-loving friends who were thrilled to
2 - Garry McCarthy, Kyla, Tim Jr. and Tim Smithecelebrate this special occasion with these beautiful/handsome lovebirds. They will be getting married on June 1st (which is Kyla’s grandparent’s 61st wedding anniversary) in Paris where they will say their vows at the Eiffel Tower! Awwwwwww…I love this!
3 - Let the celebration begin!Their families are thrilled beyond measure! Kyla’s beloved grandparents Victoria and Jack Bazarnick have passed but Tim’s grandmother, Florence Smithe, always wears Victoria’s pendant as a way of ensuring that she is always with them. (More awwwwws!) This is a true love
4 - Kyla and Tim with his cousins Cameron and Reid and her sister Kimberlystory made even sweeter by this big family, as four generations of Smithes have embraced Kyla and her family in such a beautiful way. I wish this for all brides and grooms-to-be. Kyla and Tim met over a year ago at CareerBuilder and it was
5 - Kyla admires her grandmother’s pendant on Florence Smithelove at first sight. What Tim says about Kyla: “No matter how stubborn I am, she never quits on me and my faults. I always end up seeing the other side and becoming a better person, a more well-rounded man because she is a part of my life.” Kyla on Tim: “What I love most about my fiancé is his heart. He is
6 - The Mc-Smithe Clansable to connect with any single person on the face of this earth as long as he gets the chance to. When we talk about our future, he talks about our children as if they’re already here (we will be waiting a few years for them) and he is always smiling. It’s his kind heart, and I know it’s my job to protect it.” Their famous fathers-in-law
7 - Kyla and her proud papahave hit it off, too: Walter E. Smithe’s Tim Smithe, Sr. has this to say about Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy: “What more could a father ask than to have his son find a beautiful
8 - Kyla and Tim address their friends and familywoman who makes his boy so very happy? Kyla is the first new Smithe girl of this generation!” Once Tim Jr. asked for Kyla’s hand in marriage, her father said, “You know how to communicate with her, you understand her and I only wish you both the very best.” A graduate of Northeastern University with a double major in clinical psychology and philosophy and with a thesis in existential psychotherapy, Kyla would be a
9 - Kyla and friendsdream match for any smart man – I’m just so thrilled she and Tim found each other. This soon-to-be wedding celebration was
9 - Soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. Tim Smithe, Jr.held at Harry Caray’s Steakhouse (located at 33 W. Kinzie) and included Kimberly McCarthy, Joe Ahern, Deputy Superintendant Al Wysinger, Alderman Ed Burke, Grant DePorter, Mike Ditka, Steve McMichael, Casey Urlacher, Brad Parker, Kyle Badgley and Alex Najem
10 - Loving sisters-Kyla and Kimberly(American Junkie Chicago), RRP president Arturo Gomez, R.J. Melman, Jon and Andrew Landan, Matt Deichl, lots of family from both sides and so many more. I know it’s going to be an exciting and loving place in Ky-Tim’s World. Here’s wishing them the very best! 🙂 Don’t cha just love stories like this?

 

1 - Giuliana and Lindsay—the dream team!“E! News” anchor, “Fashion Police” host and breast cancer survivor Giuliana Rancic is once again partnering with national non-profit Bright Pink to launch an exciting new philanthropic initiative: Fab-U-Wish. Fab-U-Wish, which made its debut online March 12th at FabUWish.org, provides young women battling breast and ovarian cancer with the opportunity to spend a day feeling
2 - Giuliana at FabFest“fabulous” by living one of their wildest wishes or dreams. E! will serve as the official media partner of Fab-U-Wish. In 2011, Giuliana went through a public battle with an early stage breast cancer diagnosis, double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. During that challenging time, she relied heavily on the love and support of her husband of five years Bill
3 - Lindsay Avner, Bill and Giuliana Rancic and Val WarnerRancic, family, close friends, colleagues, fans around the world and Bright Pink founder Lindsay Avner. However, it was the days of having her hair and make-up done at E!, putting on gorgeous designer gowns to interview celebrities on the red carpet or receiving the full Hollywood treatment that helped her feel more like a princess and less like a patient. She realized that her own special form of
4“fab therapy” helped take her mind off her breast cancer battle and remain optimistic, rather than continuously focusing on her illness. “I’m grateful to be where I am today – a new mother, feeling strong and healthy and in a position to help other women now going through what I did,” said Giuliana. “Along with my friend Lindsay
5Avner and the team at Bright Pink, I hope to pay it forward and become a “fairy godmother” to other women by establishing Fab-U-Wish. I sure know firsthand that a little bit of fabulous can go a long way to keep you feeling bright during some of the darkest days.” Applying for a Fab-U-Wish is simple: Women 45 and under currently undergoing treatment for breast and ovarian cancer can submit a 150-word essay or a two-minute video explaining their wish and how this one-of-a-kind indulgence would help bring some
6 - Molly Melman, Lindsay Avner, Anna Treiber, Giuliana Rancic, Julie Hamm and Shenetta Johnsonbrightness to them during treatment. Giuliana and Bright Pink will work together to review applications and select the most inspiring, creative, awesome, fabulous, and bright wishes to be granted each year, thanks to generous supporters and brands. To learn more about Fab-U-Wish and the official application details or to submit your wish, please visit FabUWish.org. Congrats to Giuliana on this wonderful idea and to Lindsay for all you do for so many! 
 

1 - Christopher Clinton Conway on the roof of Joffrey TowerSad news to report! Former Joffrey Ballet Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway is relocating back to Los Angeles after his eight-year tenure with the dance company. As a personal friend, I will miss him
2 - CCC with 2012 Joffrey Gala co-chairs Helen and me!beyond measure but know this is a great opportunity for him. I met CCC at the very first Couture & Cocktails in September 2005. His twinkling eyes and whip-smart wit made everyone want to be his friend. I was lucky to have him as a dear one for so long! He changed the Joffrey in so many
2 - CCC with Joffrey Board member Jan Melk and Beth Silvermanimmeasurable ways and helped make it the world class company it is today. He completed its $40 million capital campaign, he doubled annual giving to the company, he rebranded and reinvigorated the Joffrey
3 - Christopher as a model in a recent Burberry campaignand created unprecedented media and corporate recognition, he recruited a new artistic team after the death of beloved founder Gerald Arpino, he helped design and build the Joffrey Tower (the first permanent headquarters for the company), he helped produce the 2012 hit
4 - With CCC, Pamella Roland and Daniel DeVos at Couture & Cocktailsdocumentary “Mavericks of American Dance,” he launched the “Choreographers of Color” competition in 2010, he increased the Joffrey’s subscription base by 300 percent and he launched the Young Professional’s Board in 2009, among MANY other contributions. So as you can
5 - CCC at a Joffrey eventsee, besides being a CS Man of Style and a Paul Stuart Brand Ambassador, this man worked hard to make Chicago a better place for the arts and it will
6 - CCC with Joffrey Board member Helen Melchiorbe a lesser place without him in it. I wish you the best on your new journey CCC – don’t forget the people here who love you, like me! 🙂 BUT along with this bad news is good news for some lucky person looking for a charming 1928 English cottage home in Park Ridge. Christopher purchased this home for easy access to the airport and it’s now for sale and listed with Doug Smith of Rubloff/Prudential. (Check it out here.) We love you CCC and will miss you more than you can imagine!
 

1 - Tony Abruscato (owner of Chicago Flower & Garden Show), Allison Rosati and Rob StaffordThe Chicago Flower & Garden Show’s preview party “Evening in Bloom” was a bloomin’ success (I know, I know!) and attracted hundreds of Chicagoans who had spring on their minds. Themed the “Art of Gardening,” this
2 - Sam Griffith, Tony, Sandy and Lee Golubyear’s show benefitted several important charities including Chicago Gateway Green (a non-profit dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s neighborhoods, gateways and expressways), the
3 - Albert Bautista and Pamela FongPeterson Garden Project (a volunteer non-profit committed to teaching people how to grow their own food), the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (a nonprofit that provides support and assistance to the families of
4 - Jim Althoff and Cathy HullChicago Police Officers killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty), the Kendall College Charitable Trust (a nonprofit dedicated to providing support for students in need who are enrolled full time in the school’s culinary, hospitality, business and education programs) and Special Olympics Chicago
5 - Tony Abruscato with Pat Brickhouse(which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities). The preview event showcased nearly two dozen stunning display gardens as
6 - Holly and Matt Murek, Jason and Amy Lundywell as original artworks. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Riva Restaurant, Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet as well as sweets from Eli’s Cheesecake. Show director and president Tony Abruscato said, “This is
7 - Sharon Ringierwhere patrons of the arts meet garden and environmental enthusiasts ready to paint the town green for a welcome return to spring.” Guests included Pat Brickhouse, Jim Althoff, Cathy Hull, Joanna and
Grant Deporter, Tony Abuscato and Joanna DeporterGrant DePorter, artist Emmy Star Brown, Casey Schommer, Holly and Matt Murek, Amy and Jason Lundy, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Sa, Griffith, Sandy and Lee Golub, Albert Bautista, Pamela Fong and Sharon Ringier among many others. I never miss this beautiful event and love getting ideas for the garden! Congrats to all!
 

MadHatter Invite Howard BrownThe Mad Hatter’s Brunch, a fundraising event to benefit youth programming and services at the Broadway Youth Center (BYC), will be held April 7th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the fabulous ZED451 in River North. This festive afternoon will allow guests to sport zany and outrageous hats while tasting delectable eclectic specialty dishes from a rich buffet-style spread. Nationally-recognized musical and comedy revue THE KINSEY SICKS – America’s Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet will be the featured entertainment. FYI, hats are NOT required to attend and all are welcome! For tickets and more info, please click here.

Special thanks to my sweet friends at WCIU’s “You & Me This Morning” – we had a great time taping a segment recently at our home and I never wanted them to leave! If you missed it, here it is below. I especially love the surprise that co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman had for me at the end…how thoughtful are these peeps?! Love to producer Rob Morhaim, too! Just love this show!!!!!!

 

http://assets.delvenetworks.com/player/loader.swf

Well, that’s it for this week’s Candid Candace! Please tell your friends and share!!! 🙂 And, as always, I hope you enjoyed the lowdown on Chicago’s many highlights!
 

Charlotte Lynn, Allison and Josh WaltersLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. One of my oldest and dearest friends Ed Howlett just became a grandfather, thanks to his beautiful daughter Allison and handsome son-in-law, Josh Walters. Please welcome dear little Charlotte Lynn Walters to the world!

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January 7, 2013 · 9:47 am

A LOVE-FILLED CELEBRATION HONORS STEVE STARR AT HIS 45TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION

…PLUS MR. PLAYBOY MARRIES RUNAWAY BRIDE, CHICAGOLICIOUS STAR PARTIES IN STYLE, HIP HOP STARS ON NYE, UNTITLED BASH, CHICAGO AUTO SHOW’S FIRST LOOK, NPHM’S KEITH MAGEE HONORED, THE JOFFREY BALLET’S NUTCRACKER, TELEMUNDO IS LOOKING FOR ONE GOOD VOZ, THE WHITE HOUSE SCENE WITH HYDER, BRANDT, KEHOE, SCHWARTZ AND VARNES AND KING, STRIKE A POSE WITH THE CUBS’ DAVID DEJESUS, THE BEARS’ BRANDON MARSHALL SIGNS FOR CHARITY, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 

1 - Steve’s sisters Adrienne Ingebrigtsen and Bobbi Weiss with Steve WrightA month to the day…it just wasn’t fair that we lost beloved photographer Steve Starr so close to the event he had been anticipating and planning for over a year. His Face of the News exhibition was to be the
2 - Julia Jacobs-Sanford, Bruno Abate and Jennifer Suttonbiggest event of his life and the 45th anniversary of his Steve Starr Studios. I’d never seen him more excited: Everywhere he went, he had the familiar brown flyers in his pocket (no one escaped without one) and he stayed up even later than usual, planning and calling his friends to
3 - Co-chairs Margaret O’Connor and Leonard Mogul with friendsget their approval on this or that aspect of his party. It was a joy to see him so happy – not that he wasn’t always this way – I never saw him without a huge smile on his face or his iconic camera around his neck, which he
4 - Skrebneski portrait of Stevetold me he felt naked without. He had created a huge black leather binder with SSS in big silver letters on the front that he used to collect all of his thoughts and ideas and when he left us all too soon, it was this leather binder and the fact that he had
5 - Designer Mark Roscoe and modelsbeen working with Margaret O’Connor for most of the year that helped his friends decide that the show must go on…and that, indeed, it COULD go on just as he had wanted. With only a month to put this big event together, it was a
6 - Co-hosting with Bill Zweckerdaunting task but with a very motivated committee, it all came together on 12/12/12 in the most beautiful way at the Murphy Auditorium. A sell-out crowd of more than 300 guests oohed and aahed over the elegant black and gold décor by Judy Ippolito Floral & Event Décor (Steve’s
7 - Ald. Bob Fioretti presents City Council proclamation in Steve’s honorfavorite color combo, of course!) as well as his extensive collection of more than 200 images of media stars from all over the world that he’d met throughout the years. The walls couldn’t accommodate ALL of his beautiful photos but I hope, as Steve had hoped, that his collection will be placed in a museum or somewhere special in Chicago sometime soon, perhaps the Harold Washington
30 - Crowd scene at the MurphyLibrary. I was thrilled to serve as a host
8 - Reute Butler, Paul Iacono and Hazel Barrfor the evening with Bill Zwecker, who was the emcee. As guests arrived, they were met by the Clark Kent Greeters who looked suspiciously like Starr himself with the black framed glasses and reporter Amy Jacobson who was
9 - Natalie Martinez, Jennifer Sutton and Amy Jacobsondressed as Brenda Starr. (Steve had jokingly told Amy that he felt that Brenda Starr was his first cousin.) He had a wonderful sense of humor and was always telling tales about himself that would make
10 - Julia Jacobs-Sanford, Ann Hickey, Benjamin Cottrell and Shari Duffyyou howl with laughter. When asked how old he was, he would always say 120. I wish this could’ve been the case. Fashion designer Mark Roscoe played a big role in the evening, too, creating a
DSC_4731Newspaper Couture Collection modeled by “The Four Women of the World” – Lily’s Talent Agency models Candice Hill, Aya Jackson, Cynovia Potts and Laura Silva. I couldn’t believe his designs were made entirely out of paper! Beloved milliner
12 - Melinda Jakovich and Lucien LaGrangeLoreta Corsetti created dramatic head pieces to match (also of paper) and LeAnita Ragland-Brooks designed exquisite jewelry using Neiman Marcus boxes to match the Roscoe designs! These looks rivaled the hottest designer gowns and were drop-dead gorgeous!
13 - Colleen Kelly and Thomas McElroyCrooner Steve Biossat performed along with Spider Saloff (who Steve adored) and The Headliners. A cello/piano duo by iAN&ANi and a sensuous tango number by Liz Sung and Jorge Niedas completed the evening as
14 - Ann Hickey, Rich Varnes, Stanley Paul and Tracey TarantinoSteve had wished. Illustrator Rosemary Fanti was on hand to capture the guests’ special memories on this night and legendary pianist/orchestra leader Stanley Paul presented selections from “The Great American Songbook” that
15 - Leah Chavie and Benjamin Cottrellfeatured music from the ‘30s and ‘40s, Steve’s favorite era. Stanley had also produced a wonderful video featuring Steve’s beloved museum-quality collection of Art Deco frames holding images of classic film stars. A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of
16 - Jorge Niedas and Liz Sungthe last photo taken of Steve by renowned photographer Victor Skrebneski. His black-and-white montage of Steve in various poses captured his essence perfectly and brought gasps of appreciation from the crowd upon the unveiling. As guests departed, loaded goody bags assembled by superstar committee members Paul Iacono and Jennifer
17 - Fred Tokowitz and Stanley PaulSutton were handed out. These were some of the best gift bags I’ve seen in a long, long time…with a lot of the expenses coming out of their own pockets: Paul even found the most perfect black and gold bag with a star on the side to hold gifts, which included a DVD of Steve at a recent book signing, his signature star votive candle holder, a bottle stopper in the shape of a globe,
18 - Brenda Arelano, Loreta Corsetti and Kate Johnsonsweets, a tin of mints with a tuxedoed man on the front (that Paul had to fill by hand!), an elegant program book and so much more! Margaret O’Connor and Leonard Mogul served as co-chairs with a committee that also included Chris and Frances Renk, Rich Varnes, Amy
19 - “Big Cat” Williams and Jennifer BridgeforthWimer, JP Anderson, Dan Uslan, Nina and Bob Mariano, Michael Kutza, Lynn McMahan and Rich Gamble among others. Special thanks to Tracey Tarantino (whose ZZAZZ Productions produced the show), Brenda Arelano,
20 - Mark Roscoe designs and the Clark Kent GreetersRose Mandel, Julia Jacobs-Sanford, Leah Chavie, Anna Fong, Leslie Hindman, Shari Duffy, Joey Majumdar, Carter Cortez, Stephen Wright, Carmen C. Rivera, Amie Hana, Jennifer Bridgeforth,
22 - Helen Melchior, Camille Britton and Joan ColmarCatherine Carey (The Murphy), Sandy Smith-Doghmi, Benjamin Cottrell, Frost Lighting and so many others. It was truly a labor of love made even more special by Steve’s family
23 - Alderman Bob Fioretti and Nicki Pecoriwho were in attendance. They included his loving sisters Adrienne Ingebritsen and Bobbi Weiss, who delivered moving speeches about their dear brother, as well as Michael Weiss, Samantha Pitello, Lori Zaitz, Faith
21 - Michel Desjardins, Pierre Desy and Frank JefferyGodfrey and Lenny Weiss. An after-party continued at the Drake Hotel, as there were still so many memories to share. Steve will never be forgotten and will always be missed. RIP Steve…you’re making the angels smile now. (Photos by Jon Recana and Amie Hana…for more pics from this event, please click here and to view a video from this event, please see the media below!)

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?embedCode=9jcjgxODouzzK6E7ZyF_zVOJHRUBw-26&height=360&video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&width=640&deepLinkEmbedCode=9jcjgxODouzzK6E7ZyF_zVOJHRUBw-26

 
 

1 - Hef and Crystal (photo by Elayne Lodge)New Year’s Eve was a very big night for King of the Bunny Hutch’s Hugh M. Hefner (86) and his (former) “Runaway Bride” Crystal Harris (26). Before Hef’s annual NYE party at the Playboy Mansion, a few guests and family joined together in the grand reception foyer for an intimate wedding ceremony. The bride was resplendent in pink (a signature color in the world of Playboy Playmates) and even their King Charles Spaniel, Charlie, was
2 - Hef and Crystal with his brother Keith (L)decked out in a mini tuxedo. A harpist played “As Time Goes By” from “Casablanca” (Hef’s favorite film) as well as “Because You Loved Me” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Hef’s brother Keith (a recently married man himself) served as his best man. The day of the ceremony, Crystal tweeted to her more than 500K followers, “Today is the day I become Mrs. Hugh Hefner. Feeling very happy, lucky and blessed.” Following the ceremony, Hef tweeted, “Love that girl!” and then the newlyweds joined the revelers in the ginormous tent in the backyard for a dual wedding
3 - Lee Lovitt (Crystal’s mom), Hef and Crystalreception/NYE party. Guests included Gene Simmons, Jon Lovitz and Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney among others. On December 19th, Crystal’s best friend and business partner Ashley Matthau threw her a bridal shower in their new lingerie boutique in Studio City, Femme Fatale. The party
4 - Cooper Hefner hosting NYE at Playboy’s London Clubcombined Crystals’s two favorite things: Disney and Christmas. “We really love Disney. We are huge fans. We go to Disneyland together a lot. My favorite movie is ‘The Little Mermaid’ so she [Ashley] got me an Ariel-themed cake,” Crystal told Us Weekly. I wish Crystal and Hef the very best and hope they have a long love-filled life!
 

1 - With Nicole Townsend, Regina Lee, Justin Ross Lee, Marcus Riley and producer Justin JacobsonAnother exciting New Year’s Eve event, Chicago Empire, took place at the hot River North venue Untitled! Produced by Justin Jacobson’s Platinum Events, this party attracted more than 500 fashionables to this 17,000-square-foot
2 - Hip hop artist Marcas “Mr. Robotic” Harrisspace and was the scene of exciting entertainment including The Gold Coast All-Stars! This 11-piece band, founded by Danny Chaimson, had the crowd whipped into a frenzy. As a solo artist, Chaimson performed across the country headlining the hottest clubs and opening for legendary acts like Etta James
3 - My cute cuz Alexander Groce and Jenny Davisonand The Neville Brothers, as well as current favorites like O.A.R., Eric Hutchinson and Jem. Dapper VH1 reality star Justin Ross Lee was also on hand to add to the excitement.  Justin, an internet personality/sensation, is based in Manhattan and has been featured in The New York Observer and The New York Post among many other publications due to his many
4 - Harpo’s Andrea Dres and Liz Abrahamescapades around the globe. His jet-setting style and party adventures always land him in the press including a recent first-class encounter with Ashley Olsen in Star Magazine as well as a face-to-face with Brad Pitt which was also recounted in the press. He’s a charming character with a darling girlfriend, Regina Brauer, and I hope to
5 - Danielle Davis and Misty Callahansee them again soon! (Check out his Pretentious Pocket site! Very cool stuff!) It was fun co-hosting the evening with this social scenester and NBC’s Marcus Riley and I was thrilled to be there covering the action for my Watch312.com show, too. (Stay tuned!) Untitled boasts six rooms, all with different vibes, and was packed with party people who enjoyed the hot
6 - Untitled’s Felipe, Lisa Walt and Marco Fostermixes of DJs Flaco, Wags and Iman Amy Danielle while hip-hop artist Marcas "Mr. Robotic" Harris brought screams of delight from the crowd. The invite suggested Prohibition-era wear and many of the guests were decked out in this attire inspired
7 - Co-host Justin Ross Lee with his (hopefully, soon-to-be) wife Regina Brauerby the venue. The night included multiple open bars, appetizers and the prerequisite noisemakers and hats. I was thrilled that my handsome cousin Alexander Groce and his beautiful girlfriend Jenny Davison could attend, too! I saw so many familiar faces and it was a joy to ring in the New Year with friends like Marco Foster, Andrea Dres, Leonard Mogul, Danielle Davis, Misty Callahan, Shelley Howard, Liz Abraham, Nicole Townsend (wearing an exquisite Borris Powell gown) and so many more! (Click here for more fun pics!) 


1 - AJ surrounded on NYE!One of my favorite reality shows is Chicago's very own Chicagolicious! The lovable bunch of characters at AJ's  Salon in the West Loop has had me laughing, crying and raising my
2 - AJ and fellow Chicagolicious cast-mate Valincia Saulsberryeyebrows ever since its premiere on the Style Network on 6/11/12. And any party hosted by the show's star has GOT to be a blast and, indeed it was when celebrity hairstylist AJ Johnson co-hosted NYE with legendary music man
4 - Laura Mitchell and AJGeorge Daniels at Eclipse, a multi-million dollar luxurious restaurant and lounge at 2554 W.
3 - Soroya Smith and Chicagolicious’ Aristylez JohnsonDiversey. The party featured the hot sounds of Timbuck2 and the lovely DJ Nikki as well as a lavish buffet, champagne toast, balloon drop, party favors and some of Chicago's sexiest, stylish and most sophisticated movers and shakers! Check out the pics here of AJ and his fun-loving friends! So happy this show has been picked up again! More HAIR-raising adventures to come! (Photos by Donna Binbek Photography…see more pics here!)


1 - Young JeezyAnd for fans of hip hop, here’s some NYE news from Atlanta: Young Jeezy celebrated 2013 in style at the Hennessy V.S. New Year’s Eve Takeover Party at Compound, a dance club in the city’s Homepark neighborhood. Jeezy, arriving in a white Rolls
2 - Rico Love, T.I. and Evan RossRoyce and wearing a blue embroidered jacket, partied alongside club promoter Alex Gidewon and some of the sexiest ladies in town. Simultaneously in Miami, hip hop recording artist Clifford Joseph Harris, Jr. (better known as T.I.) rang in the
4 - Slim ThugNew Year at LIV, a nightclub on Collins Avenue in SoBe. The “King of the South” performed a medley of his hits for the crowd that included his latest from his top selling album, “Trouble
3 - T.I. performsMan: Heavy is the Head.” Other guests included T.I.’s wife Tiny, actor Evan Ross, Houston rapper Slim Thug and Jonathan Cheban. (Photos by Prince Williams and Thaddaeus McAdams.)  And, if you care, Sean “Diddy” Combs celebrated NYE in St. Barth's with his Ciroc Vodka at Sea bash on a yacht. 


1The Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity Gala announces its move to Friday, February 8th and a new and improved start time of 7 p.m. at McCormick Place! This
2black-tie gala has generated more than $34 million for charities since its inception in 1992. This year, these 18 Chicago area charities will benefit from the more than $2 million expected to be raised: 100 Club of Chicago, Boys and Girls
3 - Bonnie and Jim Spurlock at First Look 2012 (pic by Mila Samokhina)Clubs of Chicago, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet, Clearbrook, The Cradle Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Franciscan
4Community Benefit Services, Franciscan St. James Health, Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities, JDRF, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago (formerly Children's Memorial Hospital), March of Dimes, Misericordia, Respiratory Health Association, Special Olympics Illinois, Spina Bifida Association of
5 - Elena Samokhina at First Look 2012 (Pic by Mila Samokhina)Illinois and the Jesse White Tumbling Team. More than 9,000 guests are expected to attend this world-class event that provides an elegant, inaugural look at the annual Chicago Auto Show and will boast more than 1,000 new vehicles,
7 - Having fun in the Cadillac booth 2012 (Pic by Mila Samokhina)dozens on display for the first time anywhere. Those in attendance will also have a chance to win two new vehicles: a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (courtesy of Hyundai Motor America and Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Hyundai dealers) and a 2013 Buick Encore (courtesy of Buick and Chicagoland Buick-GMC
6dealers). Guests will enjoy a coordinated feast themed around some of the world's greatest cities and live entertainment by American English and the cast of the smash Broadway hit “Million Dollar Quartet.” Tickets are $250 and tuxedo attire is mandatory. For more information, including the complete list of charities and how to purchase tickets, visit www.FirstLookForCharity.org. To check out the First Look at last year's Auto Show on Watch312.com, please see below.

http://player.ooyala.com/player.js?video_pcode=h4bTAxOr07tTMKfe-w1HbzyTnrCy&height=360&embedCode=xvbmZqNTqi3BnNny-0QsM9NBO32EVlyG&width=640&deepLinkEmbedCode=xvbmZqNTqi3BnNny-0QsM9NBO32EVlyG


1 - Keith MageeA huge congrats to National Public Housing Museum’s  executive director Keith Magee on being named by Chicago Reader as one of 25 extraordinary Chicagoans! He has been tireless in his efforts to
2create a National Public Housing Museum in the last remaining building of the Jane Addams Homes. In the article (by Sam Worley), Magee explains, “This museum has been around in concept for 15 years. Deverra Beverly still lives
3 - Keith Magee and Betty Whitein the Robert Brooks Homes, and serves on the board of commissioners on the Chicago Housing Authority. She and public housing resident Beatrice Jones were talking about Chicago's Plan for Transformation, and that they were tearing down traditional
4public housing. She said, ‘What are we gonna do? How are our grandchildren and great-grandchildren going to know that we existed as a community?’ I went and I saw the building and I closed my eyes. I could hear the children in the playgrounds and I thought about all of the stories and all of the lives. That building – the Jane Addams Homes opened in '38 – was predominantly occupied by
5 - NPHM design planpeople of European descent, and by 2002 it was predominantly occupied by people of African descent. I thought about what it looked like from Jewish to
6Polish to Italian to African-American, every race and ethnic group having some kind of footprint in this space. And I got it.” He sure did GET IT and we’re so glad he did! This will be great, not only for Chicago but for the world. If you would like to learn more and how you can help, please visit www.nphm.org. Congrats Keith on all of your good work!


1 - Magical décor by Tom KehoeI never tire of The Joffrey Ballet’s "The Nutcracker" performance! Nothing puts you in a holiday mood like watching these graceful dancers glide across the stage in exquisite costumes with magical, breathtaking
2 - With Helen Melchior and Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conwaystage sets. This year's 25th Annual Nutcracker Family Dinner, hosted by The Women’s Board, was held on December 15th at the Palmer House Hilton in the State and Grand ballrooms. More than 650 guests attended
3 - Nutcracker and cookie decorating enthralled young gueststhe biggest family dinner thus far for an enchanting evening that featured entertainment for children and adults alike, a traditional family-style meal, and of course, a thrilling performance
4 - ChicagoStreetStyle dotcom blogger Amy Creyer (R) and cute friend.of Robert Joffrey’s “The Nutcracker.” (Guests had the option of attending the matinee or evening performance.) Children enjoyed decorating toe shoes, cookies and nutcrackers as well as LEGO
5 - The Lego Creation Stationdesigns. Artists were on hand to personalize Nutcracker t-shirts and The Great Frankini, Frank Glab, delighted the children with his juggling and magic tricks.  Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway and Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, along with co-chairs Laura Kofoid and
The Palmer House decorated for the holidays at the Nutcracker DinnerCarol Stone, welcomed the crowd. Tiny bells had been placed at each table setting and guests were asked to join in singing "Jingle Bells" to start the festivities. The next Joffrey event will be Pointe of Departure on February 7th. DON’T MISS IT! (For details, please visit www.joffrey.org.)
 

2Are you between the ages of 7 and 14 and ready for your close-up? NBC Universal’s Telemundo Media kicks off a nationwide casting call for its much-anticipated global hit singing competition “La Voz Kids” (The Voice Kids) and the Chicago auditions will be on January 26th and 27th! To register, visit www.lavozkids.com or call 1-855-VOZ-KIDS OR send an email to castings@lavozkids.com! The show is
1slated to air in the spring on the Telemundo network!  The winner will receive a recording contract with Universal Music AND a scholarship!! (If only I were 10 with a good voice! Sigh…) Good luck to all participants!


1 - Benjamin Newby, Kye Martin, Kathleen Page, Michael Dolan and Alicia RomanOn December 31st, more than 650 Chicago social notables came together to celebrate New Year’s Eve for the second annual Entrepreneur’s Eve at the Alder Planetarium. A stylish and philanthropic group showed up to raise a glass, have a dance and try their
2 - Ryan Beshel and Morgan Wallerluck to benefit the H Foundation, a charitable foundation committed to raising funds to cure cancer in partnership with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. Cor Strategies welcomed guests to the Adler for an evening under the stars. VIP guests experienced a swanky seated lounge with
3 - Nikki Lynette, Joe Reyes and Keisha HowardHennessy Black cocktails carefully created by Chicago’s very own Benjamin Newby. After a bit of liquid courage, guests grabbed friends to dance in one of the Alder’s full-size theaters, staged as a private club for VIP attendees. General admission also delivered an exceptional NYE experience
4 - Kristin Henriksen, Jen Knoedl and Kristi Cateswith full open bar, champagne and a dance floor under the glass ceiling of the Adler – which offered out-of-this-world skyline views of Chicago and the perfect spot to watch the NYE fireworks over Lake Michigan. All in attendance had access to the museum’s exhibits, the cigar lounge and casino, to name a few.
5 - Jena Gambaccini and Micky CicchinelliThroughout the night, a group of top DJs kept the crowd moving, including DJ DOLO, DJ Will Galvan, DJ Matt Roan (Crossfader King), DJ Yours Truly and #EE12’s headliner, DJ Zeke Thomas. When all was said and done, Entrepreneur’s Eve raised almost $70K for H Foundation…what a great way to start of 2013! For more info, please click here. (Photos by Mateo)
 

1 - Greg Hyder, Tom Kehoe and David BrandtJoin some of our town’s most beloved peeps as the Palmer House’s David Brandt, the Peninsula’s Greg Hyder and Kehoe Designs’ Tom Kehoe present the Master’s Program & Brunch at VenueSIX10, located at 610
2 - Featured speaker Laura SchwartzS. Michigan) on January 17th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year’s program and discussion will take you behind the scenes of the most demanding and intricate event of 2013: the 57th Presidential Inauguration. Join these darling event chairs – some of Chicago’s top event planning ring leaders – as they welcome former White House director of events, Laura
4 - Obama InauguralSchwartz of White House Strategies, as they shed light on what really goes on during a presidential family dinner? Just how friendly is the Secret Service? What are presidents typically like with event staffers? How can you bring the inauguration’s seamlessness and level of service to your events? For tickets ($225) and more info, please click here!


StrikeaposelogoSports stars helping others is the theme for these next two events starting with Chicago Cubs newcomer David DeJesus! He and wife Kim are keeping busy in the off-season by preparing for their upcoming fundraiser
Kim and David DeJesuson January 17th at the River East Arts Center to kick off Cubs Convention weekend. Strike a Pose will feature Cubs players past and present and their wives walking the runway in a variety of fashions from the 900 N. Michigan Shops. Besides DeJesus, participants will include Kerry and Sarah Wood, Darwin and Lindsey Barney, Shawn Camp, Tony Campana, Starlin Castro, Steve Clevenger, Anthony Rizzo and so many more! The David DeJesus Foundation will be donating all proceeds from the event to ALS research in honor of a close friend. For tickets ($250) and more info, please call 773.404.CUBS.


Brandon MarshallAnd on January 14th, Chicago Bear Brandon Marshall will be signing autographs and memorabilia at Ziegler Auto Group, located at 1230 E. Golf Road in Schaumburg. A portion of the proceeds will support Project Borderline, Brandon’s foundation that fights the stigma, spreads the word, educates and advocates for borderline personality disorder. (For more info, please visit www.projectborderline.com.) 


Mayor Rahm Emanuel with Evan BrightfieldSo proud of Tribeca Flashpoint Academy student, Evan Brightfield! He created this “Rahmfather” gift for Mayor Emanuel who actually LIKED IT! As you can imagine, it’s not easy to please the “Rahmfather” but Evan and his dad figured out a way to do it! Very cute and very clever, Evan…and congrats!


1 - Adiat Baker and Dr. Sandy GoldbergA Silver Lining Foundation (founded by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in 2006) celebrated the holiday season with the Auxiliary Board’s 5th Annual Naughty or Nice Holiday Party on December 13th. Guests gathered at Frontier
2 - Robert Mackey, Adiat Baker, Otis Wilson and Ryan JeffriesChicago Restaurant and partied for a purpose. CS Magazine and TCW Magazine co-sponsored the event. Special guests included former Chicago Bear and Super Bowl champion Otis Wilson and former Houston
3 - Dr. Sandy Goldberg and Paula Allen-MearesTexan Robert Mackey. The Naughty or Nice event is the first of a series of Auxiliary Board events to support ASLF's Buy a Mom a Mammogram program, which successfully raised awareness among attendees of the need for uninsured women to have access to cost-free mammographies. The enthusiasm and
4 - Nancy Amicangelo, Kathy Kalesperis-Smith, Greg Hines and Juancetta Smith-Lindseycommitment in the room was electric! The goal of future events is to raise funding to provide potentially lifesaving testing for at least 20 women at one of the foundation's 10 partner hospitals. (To learn more and find out how you can help, please click here!) 


Candace Jordan in Reklama Newspaper 12-12A special thanks to photographer Mila Samokhina for including me in a recent
article in Reklama, one of Chicago’s most
popular newspapers! I’m also thrilled to be a contributor to A
E Mag 1-2Perfect Event e-Mag, the most
gorgeous digital magazine I’ve ever seen, presented by the uber talented Debi Lilly! Click here to read the
latest issue
and make sure to check out pages 230 through 233! 🙂

I hope your New Year is off to a great start and here’s hoping we can spend more time together in 2013!! Love and thanks for your support this year and every year! 

Love always,
Candace 🙂
Candace@CandidCandace.com


Rich Varnes, Valerie Jarrett, Cynthia and Eleanor King at the White HouseP.S. And under the “Thrill of a Lifetime” category, huge congrats and thanks to Rich Varnes, Cynthia King and their darling daughter Eleanor King for letting me see the White House at Christmas through their eyes! What an amazing story with such beautiful photos! To read about their fabulous holiday adventure, please
Alexis Mattera and Scott Silberbergclick here!


P.P.S. Please help me congratulate dear Alexis Mattera on her upcoming marriage to
her longtime love, Scott Silberberg! Alexis has been a part of this blog from its very inception and I couldn’t
do this without her! Thanks and congrats for all you do and for your happy impending
plans! Love you so, Lex…release the doves!

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December 5, 2012 · 3:04 pm

CHICAGO WELCOMES BURBERRY AND DEL FRISCO’S WITH PACKED PARTIES!

…PLUS THE SPLENDOR OF IMPERIAL RUSSIA AT BOTANIC GARDEN, NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY SUGGESTIONS, FINE ARTS BUILDING’S HOLIDAY PARTY, INDIE FILM FEST, BOYS & GIRLS CLUB GALA, CAMP COSMETICS CAMPAIGN HITS THE MAGS AND SO MUCH MORE!


1 - Burberry on opening nightIt was going to be a BIG night with two hotly anticipated grand openings on November 29th with Burberry and the hot new restaurant on Oak Street, Del Frisco’s. Let’s start with the former: I believe Burberry’s “Art of the
2 - Gregg Zgonena, Ford’s Nancy Tennicott, David Sanchez and friendsTrench” campaign began back in October…at least this was when I was contacted. I know of more than 50 local Chicagoans who were photographed for this photo exhibition intended to herald and publicize the opening of
3 - Monika Dixon (2nd from L), STATUS’ Yana Nirshberg and friendsBurberry’s largest store in the country outside of New York. The email read, “This autumn, Burberry is launching its new flagship store on Michigan Avenue and celebrating Burberry in Chicago by hosting an event on Thursday, November 29th,
4 - WCL’s Jessie Kalin in her trench picwith Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey. This event will be a local celebration of our global platform, www.artofthetrench.com, and will feature images of influential Chicagoans on Burberry's digital platform as well as in a physical incarnation of the luxury brand's
5 - Chai Lee and Shannon O’Briensite in store. We would like to invite you to participate in this project and photograph you for Art of the Trench.” HELL YES! COUNT ME IN! It was a fun photo shoot with a photographer who I already knew, loved and admired – Amy Creyer. Her popular
6 - DJ Kid Colorwebsite www.ChicagoStreetStyle.com is a must read and her work has appeared on The Huffington Post, in W Magazine and on MTV. It was a rainy day but it made the atmosphere for the shoot even better on film so I
7 - Best friendswas happy even if the weather was less than perfect. Now that I’ve seen all of the images (see them here), the one thing that stands out (besides the people, of course) is how gorgeous our city is. From the back alleys to the side streets to the historical monuments, every photo looks like a piece of artwork with Chicago as the star. Everyone looked so
8 - Carrie Lannon in her trench picpowerful in their photos too…most were not the usual smiley images that we Midwesterners are so fond of but rather true portraits of people in the “city that works.” I’m so proud to be a part of this campaign but moreover, just so proud of our city and all of the people
9 - Dennis Minkel, Katie McLenaghan and Ryan Beshelin it. They were determined to keep this campaign top secret until the week of the grand opening and they succeeded. It's fun and exciting to see all of the images popping up around town now. The opening was one of the splashiest I’ve seen
10 - Victor Skrebneskiin a loooooonnnnng time! The new five-story space was brought to life with a distinctly British mix of music with guests experiencing an immersive physical and digital experience.
11 - Carl Barat and the Libertines with Billy Zane in foregroundModel/performers emulated the sound of rain throughout the space as images were projected onto the walls of every floor. Live music for the evening was provided by British musician Carl Barat and his band played their little hearts out on the main floor with the performance projected on all
12 - Kevin Aeh in his trench picof the levels so guests wouldn’t miss a moment. DJ Matt Roan, an “Art of the Trench” subject, followed with more hot music. Opened earlier this month, the Chicago flagship store (which
13 - Charlie Barnettpurportedly cost $10 million to build) will blur the brand’s physical and digital worlds through the Burberry Retail Theatre concept which will enable broadcast of live events and global synchronized content that can be played on the store’s interior digital screens. Additionally, the store offers the first physical representation of Burberry Bespoke, a concept that allows customers to create their own trench coat by selecting the
14 - Billy Zane and Amir Attaiecut, the fabric, the color and then navigating through options that include bronze-studded sleeves, bridle leather cuff straps, mink linings and shearling collars. Step by step, the screen
15 - Michel Desjardins, Marianne Strokirk and Pierre Desyassembles the virtual trench coat as specified and the real-life version arrives in four to eight weeks from Burberry's factory in Yorkshire, England (though the leather trenches are dispatched from Italy). The
16 - Chef Art Smith and Chucktag displays a special limited-edition number, plus a designation in block letters: “Bespoke.” (Prices for the custom trenches start at about $1,800; luxe features such as leather
Marc Brooks (R) and friendssleeves and mink linings run the price up as high as $8,800. Trench coats from Burberry's off-the-rack collections start at about $700 and range up to about $6,000.) The store also
Dr. Alex and Dusty Stemeroffers the first Burberry beauty in-store consultation counter in America – this is what you call one stop shopping, my friends! This exciting evening ended with a striking display of lights
Christopher Cooper and Paul Iaconoand digital projections amidst a sea of confetti that illuminated the iconic Burberry check on the store’s exterior façade, officially switching on the new Michigan Avenue site! In celebration of the
19 - Luca Lanzetta in his trench picopening, the Burberry Foundation is partnering with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to create $2.2 million in funding to support the Chicago Hive Learning Network. This new funding,
20 - Joan Colmar and Helen Melchior$1.7 million and $500,000 from the MacArthur and Burberry foundations respectively, will be used to inspire young people in Chicago, creating new innovative educational experiences designed to nurture their skills and creative confidence. (To see more party pics, please click here!) Welcome to Chicago, BURBERRY!!!

1 - Monsignor Ken Velo, Troy Smith, Alderman Brendan Reilly, DF Regional Mngr.Ray Kasperski, Josh HaleFollowing this sensory overload, we headed to 58 E. Oak St. for the Del Frisco’s grand opening. Cars were backed up down the street as the valets scrambled to keep pace
2 - Juanita Jordan and Chef Anthony Reyeswith the arriving guests. Located in the old Esquire Theater space, this multi-level dining experience seats over 500! With an 11,000-bottle wine cellar, it was a marvel to behold and guests could see it from every floor since it “floated” in the center of the building. Glistening
3 - Regional Manager Ray Kasperski and CEO Mark Mednanskybars, sparkling oversized crystal light fixtures, friendly service and dark wood appointments created an atmosphere that I’m sure will become a magnet for locals and out-of-towners alike. Chef de Cuisine
Carlos Romano and Kerry ShorrAnthony Reyes’ extensive menu includes their famous steaks and chops plus a “Wagyu Longbone,” which is a 32-ounce ribeye for $89. Other dishes include bacon-wrapped scallops, crab cakes, cheesesteak eggrolls and a gorgeous “Shellfish Plateau” for two
5 - Jerry and Shari Michaels, Leonard Goldbergfor $75. On this night, the seafood bar was a sight to see with enormous ice sculptures flanking each end of a table that was overflowing with every sort of shellfish imaginable! I saw a lot of familiar, happy faces on this night and I’m pretty sure we will all be meeting there
6 - Bob Loquercio, Larry Wert and Veronica Zepedaagain very soon! Del Frisco’s donated $10K to its charity, the Big Shoulders Fund, which provides support to
7 - With Donna Grant and Jess Altierithe Catholic schools in the neediest areas of inner-city Chicago. All this and charitable, too…can’t beat this combo! General Manager Troy Smith and Private Dining Coordinator Anna Saavedra must be so excited! (Open for lunch and dinner – call 312.888.2499 to make a reservation!)


1 - Co-chairs Alicia Crawford and Gail MillerThe Splendor of Imperial Russia was the theme for the Woman’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society’s recent All Aboard! party. Co-chaired by Gail Miller and Alicia
2 - Patrick Kearney, Emily Betts Susanin, Sean SusaninCrawford, the evening began with a cocktail reception complemented by a caviar and vodka bar (my kind of party!) decorated with ice sculptures. The Russian mood was further enhanced by a performance
3 - Dr. Lawrence Becker and Nicole Williams, Robert and Linda Sullivanby Golosa, a Russian singing ensemble. Guests dined in sumptuous recreations of three Imperial palaces including The Catherine Palace; Peterhof, where Peter the Great exhibited
4 - The Catherine Palace dining roomhis love of fountains and all things gold; and The Winter Palace, that featured rich décor and the shimmer of ice. (Dramatic décor by Jody, Inc.) Set in and among the garden’s 10,000-square-foot indoor winter exhibition of garden scale trains, winter flora and 80
5 - Karen and Jack MacKayiconic Chicago landmarks, the evening set the tone for celebrating the season. Jewell Events Catering prepared a delicious menu which featured such passed
6 - Susan Green, Janice Beck, Jennifer Martay, Valerie Foradashors d’oeuvres as truffled golden beet and goat cheese on cracker bread, petit crepe beggars’ purses with wild mushrooms, very petite filet of salmon, a
7 - Jane Irwin and Bob Romopear and walnut sandwich and truffled pate on brioche toast. The Woman’s Board is in its second year of “Growing The Future,” a $1 million pledge to the Chicago Botanic Garden. All
8 - Barbara and Richard MetzlerAboard! raised $300,000 to support the Garden’s Green Youth Farm and Windy City Harvest community gardening programs. For more info about Garden programs and events, please call 847.835.5440 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org. (Photos by Robin Carlson.)


3I hope you can join me and NBC’s Marcus Riley when we co-host the New Year’s Eve Countdown for Chicago Empire 2013 on December 31st, beginning at 9 p.m. at Untitled, located at 111 W. Kinzie. Produced by Platinum Events, this black tie optional event will feature a performance by The Gold Coast All Stars with Chicago native turned LA superstar Mr. Robotic jamming out hits, while Platinum DJs Flaco and Wags spin all night! VH1 reality star and NY socialite “JRL” (Justin Ross Lee) and
2 - Justin Jacobson and Shannon WilliamsMORE will also be there! Toast in the New Year with six rooms, a premium open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres and a midnight toast! If you know Platinum Events’ Justin Jacobson, you know this will be one fantastic party! (For tickets and more info on packages, please click here!


Cheeky Party inviteCheeky Chicago and Vertigo Sky Lounge, located at 2 W. Erie, will be toasting the New Year with a Winter White Party. Beginning at 9 p.m., enjoy appetizers from Argent raw bar and specialty cocktails while dancing to the high energy sounds of DJ Mister Wolf on Chicago’s only year-round rooftop patio! Countdown the seconds until 2013 on a 12-foot screen while enjoying festive party favors, passed late night bites and a complimentary toast at midnight! (Tickets range from $125 to $200; to purchase tickets and obtain more info, please click here!)


NYE“An Evening of Opulence” is the theme for a grand New Year’s Eve party presented by Genuine Entertainment and PR maven Monika Dixon at N9NE Steakhouse, located at 440 W. Randolph St. Beginning at 9 p.m., the evening will include an open bar, award-winning food and a decadent dessert buffet. DJ Madrid will keep the crowd fueled for fun! For tickets and more info, please click here!
 

Fine Arts BuildingIf you haven’t had a chance to visit the Fine Arts Building during their holiday celebration (A Night at the Fine Arts Building), then you’ve been missing out on a lot of fun and holiday cheer! On Friday, December 14th, from 5 to 10 p.m. at 410 S. Michigan Ave., this legendary building’s 10 floors will be
Santa4teeming with entertainment by the artists of the building as well as from the Flat Iron Building and will include tap dancing, symphony, spoken word, opera, jazz, ballet, theatre recitals, chamber music, modern music, visual arts and so much more! (For more info, please visit www.nightatthefab.com.)

 

1 - Filmmakers Eric Gulbrandsen (L) and Josh Orr with actress Carissa Leandra BrownThe Indie Incubator Film Fest, billed as a “night of kick-ass short films from regional filmmakers,” was recently held at Mother’s on Division. I was thrilled to be there to support two of
2the coolest filmmakers I know, partners Josh Orr and Eric Gulbrandsen. Their short film series features three- to five-minute genre films and are not to be missed! Inspired in part by Rod Serling’s “Twilight Zone” series, their two latest segments are chilling and creative. On
3this night, more than 23 films were screened, with Josh and Eric WINNING for “Best Scare” for their first film, “Terms and Conditions.” Follow them on Facebook here. I can’t wait to see their NEXT film! Congrats and good luck, Josh and Eric!


1 - Louise LaRue, Martha Martin and Melanie MartinThe 35th annual Boys & Girls Club Gala was held at the Union League Club on November 3rd. These clubs provide 11,000 kids in Chicago’s inner city with academic, arts and athletic afterschool programs. Over the past 35 years, the clubs
2 - Club One Chairman Michael Chioros and wife Lyndahave raised more than $3 million and benefitted more than 250,000 kids ages 6 to 18. This year’s gala, which raised $200,000, included silent and live auctions, a sit-down dinner and dancing to the Al Sophia Orchestra. Congrats! (Photos by Steve Starr, RIP.)


1 - Camp adI’m so excited about the new ad campaign for CAMP Cosmetics, which is hitting magazines around town this month. I love seeing the ad in TCW Magazine as well as Michigan Avenue
2 - Camp founder Michael PerichMagazine! Darling CAMP founder Michael Perich also has a great article about his philosophy and company on page 35 (TCW Mag) so don’t miss it! I’m thrilled to be a part of this excitement with
3my new Candid Candace lipstick! I hope you like it and I hope you buy it…it’s the shade I’ve always looked for and could never find! The whole CAMP line, which includes skin care and everything else you can think of, is fantastic, too! Color me coral! You can see the video from the shoot below! (Campaign photo by Amie Hana.)

 

http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1


LoResCCClogoAnd speaking of TCW Magazine, I’m thrilled to announce our online partnership which will include all of my “Candid Candace Chicago” shows on Watch312.com! So, make sure to check it out online here as well as on Watch312.com!
 

Mila on ReclamaA big GET WELL WISH goes out to beloved photog Mila Samokhina. A recent health scare landed her in Skokie Hospital but she is back home now in the loving care of handsome husband, Arthur, and her daughter, glam-girl-about town Elena Samokhina. Love and get well soon – we all miss you! (Here is a photo of Mila being celebrated on the cover of Reclama! Much deserved, Mila Pila!)


Steve Starr Face of News InviteI hope you’re all in the holiday spirit right about now and I hope you will send me some images of your festive décor so I can add them next week! Here’s a link to mine as well as this link to Debi Lilly’s beautiful A Perfect Event E-Magazine, which is filled with the most fabulous images, recipes and décor ideas! Congrats, Debi – love this and YOU! Have a great week and I hope to see you back here soon!


Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you haven’t bought your tickets yet for this wonderful Memorial Celebration of the life and legacy of Steve Starr on 12/12/12, please do it soon! The space at the John B. Murphy Auditorium only holds 325 and you won’t want to miss this! Beginning at 6 p.m. for a VIP reception, the evening will include entertainment, Steve’s remarkable “Face of the News” photo exhibition, cocktails, food from our town’s top restaurants and so much more! There will be some wonderful surprises, too! (For tickets and more info, please click here!


IMG_2757P.P.S. Jennifer Hudson and Jamar Rogers of “The Voice” were at the House of Blues last night for Michigan Avenue Magazine’s second cover party for Jennifer! Stay tuned for my “Candid Candace Chicago” coverage coming next week on Watch312.com!

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September 25, 2012 · 9:38 pm

CHESHIRE CAT SMILES ALL AROUND FOR OFFICE MAX’S GREEN TIE BALL!

…PLUS 30/30/30 FOR TCW MAG, BRIAN ATWOOD’S A-LIST PARTY, HENSON’S HIGH HONOR, HORSING AROUND AT THE EVERGREEN INVITATIONAL, PRIMO CLASSICO, HARRIS THEATER’S ONE NIGHT COUP, GOLD COAST FASHION AWARDS RETURNS, LATINO FASHION WEEK, CHEF ERIC LANLARD WANTS TO “TART IT UP!,” A MAGICAL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Guests with Red Moon Theater actorsThe Office Max Green Tie Ball just keeps getting bigger and better! I didn’t think they could top last year’s theme – “The Wizard of Oz” – but with the fantastic addition of Red Moon Theater Company, “Alice in Wonderland” came Blog 2 - Joanna and Grant DePorterto life this year for more than 3,000 guests. From the moment you entered the steel factory grounds of A. Finkl & Sons, you knew magic was afoot when you walked the GREEN carpet! Dramatic visuals thrilled your senses everywhere you looked beginning with striking artwork from this classic book streaming down the sides of the Blog 3 - Emcee Val Warner with the Landon Twinstent as you entered the grounds. The Mad Hatter’s tent made me gasp as I saw oversized lamps and fabulous scenes projected on every wall. And the FOOD! There were more than 70 food stations and I don’t mean little tastings: This was REAL food prepared by Blog 4 - Interviewing Pete Wentz and girlfriend Meagan Camperchefs who wanted to be noticed. Rub BBQ Company served a BBQ martini consisting of coleslaw, cornbread, baker beans and smoked pork shoulder all in one cup! Zapatista’s carnitas on rice flower tortillas with jalapenos was mouthwatering and Flo & Santos served ravarogi (meat pierogies) with vodka Blog 5 - Sarah Cooley (2nd from R), Richard Roeper and friendscream sauce. Thank goodness I didn’t get to ALL 70 restaurants, although I did see great stuff from Frog & Snail, GT Fish & Oyster, III Forks, Rosebud, 25 Degrees, Province, Frontier and Public House. I was especially touched by Blog 6 - Jerry Roeper and David Lissnerthe offerings from the sweet kids from Bethlehem Lutheran Church who were on hand from the After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program. Proud ASM Culinary Director/Chef Gloria Hafer said, “These students are special to us and I know they will succeed because of the Blog 7 - After School Matters students with their creationsconcern of the people here who have taken an interest in the program. I’m working diligently through ASM to promote self-esteem, excellence, and appreciation of the culinary arts.” Students in the program prepared, displayed and served more Blog 8 - Shari and Paul Duffythan 2,000 “Alice in Wonderland”-themed cookies and cakes. I watch a lot of master chef shows and these kids could teach them a thing or two from what I saw on this night. Shannon Roche, Gisel Bahena, Abigail Garcia, Lily Harris and Omar Cardenas proudly displayed their works of art and told me how Blog 9important the program was to them. Gisel plans on working in the culinary arts and Omar was happy to have a place to go that would keep him “off the streets.” Abigail commented on the fun she had and how much she loved learning how to Blog 10 - Zac Stemer and Jordan Stemercook. This was sheer genius by the event organizers to add these kids so they could highlight this worthy organization! Of the 50 world-renowned chefs invited to this event, After School Matters was the only teen initiative asked to participate. The event was emceed for the second year by Blog 11 - Elena Samokhina and magical friend“Windy City Live” hosts Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini. When I interviewed them for Watch312.com, they were so excited about expanding to the weekend, with a Sunday edition coming soon. Ryan jokingly said, “You will be sick of us soon like my parents.” They are too cute for words, as we Blog 12 - Susan and John Collettiall know! Corri McFadden, glam e-Drop Off founder and star of VH1’s “House of Consignment,” and Donald Storino, principal and co-founder of the government affairs firm Fidelity Consulting Group, served as co-chairs. This Blog 13 - DJ Rock Cityevent benefitted Chicago Gateway Green, which was founded by Donald DePorter in 1986. His son, Grant DePorter, President of Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group and Chairman of Gateway Green, carries on his father’s tradition in grand style. “As Gateway Green’s Blog 14signature fundraising event, the Green Tie Ball not only raises our mission but also serves as the catalyst for our ongoing beautification programs, including the Expressway Partnership, for which proceeds from this year’s gala will be directed.” The night also Blog 15included top notch dance music from deejays Justin Jacobson (founder and impresario of Platinum Events), Rock City and former Fall Out Boy bassist and half of the Black Cards duo, Pete Wentz. He showed up on the green carpet around 9:45 p.m. with gorgeous arm candy, Meagan Camper. My friend and celebrity stylist Eric Himel styled them both to perfection saying, “For
Co-chair Corri McFadden and friendPete, I wanted to do something different other than rocker attire.” Wentz was decked out in a fabulous forest green suit from Oak Street’s SuitSupply with a Blog 17 - Agnes Miles and Catie Keoghbow tie. When I asked him how he liked his outfit, he said, “I feel a little Farrakhan-ish but that’s okay, I'm a fan.” He was dancing and tweeting pics of the crowd as he deejayed. So cute! Meagan was in a sleek black dress from Top Shop with green Alexis Bittar earrings. Such a stylish pair! I loved Eric’s Blog 18outfit, too, that featured a green skull necklace on a leather cord from Beatnik's, a great store in Lakeview. Entertainment included live performances from Chicago cover bands Dr. Bombay Blog 19 - Brenda Arelano and Lisa Apratiand South of 80. Co-host Ryan Chiaverini thrilled the crowd when he got onstage to sing his now signature song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The Rivers Casino tent featured craps, blackjack and roulette. There was also a Red Moon bubble-blowing, mobile DJ, Blog 20 - Charitable gambling courtesy of Rivers Casinoan Office Max photo booth filled with “Alice in Wonderland” props and “Hawk Man,” who hovered over the crowd on a 20-foot crane flapping his massive, feathered wings (also from Red Moon). Partygoers happily fell right down the Blog 21 - “Hawk Man” from Red Moon Theater Companyrabbit hole at this party! Executive producer for this magical night was “The Food Dude,” David Lissner, who is also a board member of Chicago Gateway Green. This magical night raised $450K to benefit Chicago Gateway Green. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…to see other photos in my Chicago Tribune column by Beth Rooney, please click here and to see all of the magic, WATCH my Watch312.com video right HERE!)

 

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Blog 1 - Brian Atwood with Heidi Klum and Rachel ZoeHandsome shoe god Brian Atwood celebrated his new campaign and first flagship store at 655 Madison Avenue in New York with a star-filled celebration at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Wednesday, September 5th. More than 700 guests mixed Blog 2 - Proud mom Dusty congratulates Brianwith A-list celebs as DJ Mick Boogie played hot mixes but nothing could be hotter than the sky high heels so coveted around the globe by this charming designer who is adored by all. Since its 2001 debut, the Brian Atwood Collection has instilled shoe lust in a legion of fans for its infusion of glamour, exquisite Blog 3 - Kim Kardashian with Brian Atwoodcraftsmanship, hyperluxe design and attention to detail. His award-winning styles have earned him the CDA Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for Best Accessory Design and the 2010 Footwear News Designer of the Year Award. His first global campaign this past summer, a print campaign and Blog 4 - Handsome life partners Dr. Jake Deutsch and Briancompanion fashion film tell the story of the modern woman's desire for fantasy and control. The new fall print and video campaign were shot together in London by Mert & Marcus with creative direction by Giovanni Bianco and feature supermodel Candice Swanepoel. The fashion film, The Sex is in the Heel video series, is a voyeuristic flashback by a mysterious seductress reliving the Blog 5 - Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, cute friend and Jordan Stemerprevious night's fantasy and will be a part of the film section on the newly redesigned website. I imagine this is exactly how women feel after a night of wearing a pair of Brian Atwoods! In honor of the evening, DeLeon Tequila presented four signature cocktails: Maniac, The Sex Blog 7 - Heidi Klum having fun with Brian!is in the Heel, Midnight Purple and The Atwood. Ahhhhhh, so cute! Guests seen at the celebration included Heidi Klum, Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Rachel Roy, Ryan Lochte, Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Nate Berkus, Hannah Bronfman, Estelle, Gabrielle Union, Katie Lee, Candice Swanepoel, Giovanni Bianco, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, proud parents Yolanda (Dusty) and Dr. Alex Stemer, Blog 6 - Zak Stemer, Ryan Lochte, Stephanie WeissAbby and Dr. Jim Lipton, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina Mariano, beautiful sister Jordan Stemer and Jackson Miranda, darling brother Zack Stemer, longtime friend milliner Loreta Corsetti, Peter Kousothanos, Nina Aversa, Stephanie Weiss, Andi Laidlaw, Cameron Laidlaw, Jerimiah and Brian's handsome husband, Dr. Jake Deutsch. It was a joy-filled affair filled with beautiful people. Long may you reign, Shoe God Brian Atwood – can't wait for your first store opening at 655 Madison Avenue coming October 4th!!!

Blog 1I love TCW Magazine and I’m so thrilled to be celebrating their 30th
anniversary with them on October 30th with a party benefitting 30 charities in town that assist women and children in Blog 2need! Leave it to Sherren Leigh to come up with this clever idea for her party which will also include a silent auction called Pumpkins on Parade. Faux “funkin” pumpkins will be decorated by local “celebrities” to be auctioned off.  I must say she corralled me for this funkin decorating and I tried but had to relinquish my duties to my dear friend (and crafty Blog 3 - Tissy Eggleston, my “Funkin” carving savior!genius), Tissy Eggleston. So, even though I will have a pumpkin entered, just know it was a collaborative effort! LOL! There will also be an open bar, food stations, a live band with guests encouraged to wear costumes. Tickets are $150 and I know this will be ONE event you shouldn’t miss! Happy birthday, TCW!

Kathleen HensonPR News recently awarded a BIG honor to Chicago’s own Kathleen Henson and her creative Henson Consulting firm with National Small PR Firm of the Year! They also won nationally for best Anniversary Campaign for 373141_60075977775_1321684491_nLettuce Entertain You’s 40th anniversary last summer. Kathleen started her firm 12 years ago in her basement with just a laptop, a phone and a rolodex after her first child, Emily (she now has FIVE!) was only nine months old! I can’t wait to see where this dynamic redhead with a heart of gold flies to next! Congrats to you KH and to Henson Consulting on all of your great work!

 

Blog 1 - Christy Cressey, host MK Pritzker and friendA venerable who’s who of Chicago traveled north to the private 230-acre Evergreen Farm owned by JB and MK Pritzker on Saturday, September 6th, to witness one of the Midwest’s most esteemed equestrian events, the Evergreen Invitational. Hosted by MK and The Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Blog 2 - Neal Zucker, Nora Daley and Sean conroypresented by Northern Trust, this fourth biennial equestrian charity exclusive “by-invite-only” event attracted more than 600 guests who came to support the elegant sport and witness nationally and internationally ranked riders compete. More than $1.1 million was raised from this year’s event with proceeds benefitting under-funded women’s health programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. To Blog 3 - Laura Linback on Whittadate, the Evergreen Invitational has raised more than $4 million. The $25K Junior/Amateur Owner Classic kicked Blog 4 - Ricky, Estelle and Agatha Walgreenoff the event with Meagan Nusz winning on horse, Vesuvius. The $75K Grand Prix blue ribbon went to Laura Linback and horse Whittaker MVNZ. In between the two events, hundreds of guests were spotting enjoying the mild weather and admiring some of the exquisite Graff jewels on display or lusting after a number of Ferraris dotting the property Blog 5 - Julie Latsko, Traci and Mario Tricoci and family(which were available for test drives courtesy of Lake Forest Sportscars). A promenade of shops featured merchandise from Lee Allison Company, Escada, Fabbri Furs, Chicago Luxury Beds and Blog 6 - Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer and Julie Selakovichdozens more. A lavish buffet lunch was catered by beloved George Jewell of George Jewell Catering. Guests seen on the scene included Mimi Olson (President of the WB of Northwestern), co-chairs Joan Moore and Christy Blog 7 - Sargent familyCressey, Meredith Wood-Prince, Nora Daley with husband Sean Conroy, Mich Mag’s J.P. Anderson and Dan Uslan, Neal Zucker, Leslie Hindman and Tempel Smith, Traci and Mario Tricoci, Jr. Blog 8and family, Estelle Walgreen, Quintin Primo, Mayari Pritzker, Susan and Joe Ahern, Dr. Kris and Tricia Rooney Alden, Thea Robinson, Dean Harrison, Curt Bailey, host JB Pritzker and Dan UslanJulie Selakovich, Curt Bailey, Christy Cressey, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer, Bethany Paris, Linda Yu and Stuart Ellison, Susie and Walter Jaco
bson, Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin, Tom Cole, Denise and Adam Hoeflich and Stephen and Diane Falk. (Photos by Mariah Smith…to view more pics, please click here!)
 
Blog 1 - Hostess Shirley Ryan, Kim White (WB President), Kathleen Carbonara (Ball Co-Chair)Members of the Field Museum Women’s Board are immersing themselves in Indian culture as they prepare for the annual gala on October 13th, “The Maharaja Ball.” The gala, co-chaired by Kathleen Blog 2 - Marty Peterson, Anupy Singla, Kim White and Sandy DeromediCarbonara and Susan Faurot, will celebrate the museum’s opening of “Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts” exhibit coming in November. The exhibit is organized by the Victoria & Blog 3 - Kim White and Renee CrownAlbert Museum in London. The first of two high profile kick-off events was hosted by Patrick and Shirley Ryan at their Winnetka home with more than 50 women in attendance for the annual invitation stuffing party,
Blog 4 - Peggy Snorf, Susan McBride, Betsy Ahearne, Leslie Zentner and Marty Peterson“House in the Garden.” The second event was hosted by bestselling Indian cookbook author and former Chicago TV reporter Anupy Singla, who gave a cooking demo and prepared an Indian lunch for the Women’s Board. She schooled the Blog 5 - Ball co-chairs Kathleen Carbonara and Susan Faurot with Anupy SinglaBoard in the fine points of Indian cuisine and cooked recipes from her newest cookbook, “Vegan Indian Cooking.” A trip along Blog 6 - Stuffing invites at the Ryans'Devon Avenue for sari shopping was included! This gala is sure to be a sellout so please click here for tickets and more info. Congrats to all of the hardworking Women’s Board members!

PrimoPrimo Classico d’Italia, a benefit for the Primo Center, will take place at Diane and Quintin Primo’s home in Lake Forest on Sunday, September 30th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will be new and vintage Ferraris along with beautiful models and great Italian food prepared and donated by leading Chicago restaurants such as Pelago, Prosecco, Tocco, Florentine, Volare and Fred’s. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit homeless women and children who rely on the services of the Primo Center. For tickets and more info, please click here!

Sweet Honey in the RockWhat do you get when you combine a Grammy Award-winning female a cappella group with a youth orchestra ensemble led by President Obama’s first nominee to the National Council of the Arts? I would call it one magnificent night Sphinx Virtuosiin Chicago at the Harris Theater! On Thursday, October 4th only, they will debut a performance by Sphinx Virtuosi with Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Chicago Children’s Choir with a premiere of its new work, Affirmations for a New World. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $10 to $35! For tickets and more information, please visit www.harristheaterofchicago.org.

Gold coast fashion show imageThe 57th Gold Coast Fashion Award show, the signature fundraising event of The Children’s Service Board, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, will be at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan, on Friday afternoon, September 28th beginning at 11 a.m. with a cocktail reception. Emerging designers will compete for the coveted Gold Coast Fashion Award with audience members casting their votes. Last year’s winner, Fabiola Arias, will open the show with her fall Fabiola+Arias+Fabiola+Arias+Backstage+Fall+vvtEcXzRq9Glcollection and designers Lyn Devon, Tess Giberson, Wes Gordon, Stacy Lomnan, Misha Nonoo, Rolando Santana, Verlaine and Rubin Singer will be competing for the 2012 award.  Retail partners this year include Chalk, Mark Shale, McElroy Furs, Neiman Marcus, Perchance, Frances Heffernan and Saks Fifth Avenue. David Yurman will once again host the Grand Staircase entrance during the cocktail hour with displays of fabulous jewelry. Tickets begin at $200 and can be purchased by visiting www.gcfas.com.
 
Latino Fashion Week Save the DateNow in its sixth year, Latino Fashion Week will premier its 2012 tour with the theme “Images of Fashion.” Co-founded by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon, Jr., the tour will include Dallas, Chicago and Miami, and will honor photographers and videographers involved in the exhibition. Highlighted in the Chicago exhibit is globally renowned fashion photographer, Daniel Garriga. This five-day event will include runway shows, celebrity appearances, VIP receptions, a one-day Fashion Lounge and Expo, and much more! The Kick-Off event, “Lights, Camera, Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party,” will be at Zhou B Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th St. on Tuesday, October 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. (For tickets and more info, please call 773.865.7313 or 773.251.3329.
 
Tart-it-up-eric-lanard-e1343125285112And now someone you should know! London-based Chef Eric Lanlard is coming to the Windy City on Tuesday, October 30th, to celebrate the launch of his latest book, “Tart it Up!”(Don’t you just love this title!?) Eric is a master patissier and two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Jesus Salguiero, Chef Eric Lanlard and Naushab AhmedAwards. Having trained in France, Eric moved to London where he ran the patisserie business for Albert and Michel Roux. For the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, he was commissioned to create a recipe (The Elizabeth Sponge) for the celebration! Eric has also appeared in a number of TV series, including top Brit hit, “Glamour Puds,” that have helped him build a global fan base. He’s charming and witty with four books under his belt (so far): “Master Cakes,” “Cox,” ElizabethCake260“Cookies & Cakes,” “Cake Boy” and his latest, “Tart it Up!” Hosted by Jean Zivkovic and Don Newcomb, a champagne reception (with delicious gourmet tastings) is planned at the Ritz Carlton Club (located at 160 E. Pearson) on October 30th. So please come meet my “sweet” friend and "Tart It Up!" (For reservations – $99 – please call 312.777.1090.)
 
StarvingArtistInvitationFinal_emailThe Chicago Artists' Coalition presents its Starving Artist benefit on Saturday, October 6th at 217 N. Carpenter St. beginning at 7 p.m. Artists and chefs will be paired to inspire a dish that’s served at the event and a piece of artwork that results will be auctioned off. There will be a charcuterie battle and food installations. Participants will include food preservationist Tara Lane, artists Laura Letinsky, Jeanne Dunning, Erik Peterson, Jenny Kendler and chefs Jared Van Camp, Erling Wu-Bower and Beverly Kim. For tickets (beginning at $150), please visit www.2012starvingartist.com. 
 
Blog 1 - Keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin and Tribune’s Joycelyn WinneckeThe University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business recently hosted a day-long seminar series that included a fascinating personal branding segment with keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin (principal of Jan Anne Dubin Consulting) and Joycelyn Winnecke (Chicago Tribune vice president and Blog 2 - New Sunday Tribune Candid Candace format!associate editor). I was even more thrilled when she included me as a “Personal Branding Pro” along with Christie Hefner, Amy Guth, Cheryle Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Jeanne Gang, Ron Culp and Bridget Brennan. It was an honor to be included and introduced to the standing room only crowd! Congrats to Jan and Joyce on a thrilling talk! And speaking of the Chicago Tribune, I hope you enjoyed the new format for my Sunday Candid Candace column! 🙂
 
Muttstrut2012The 9th Annual Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR) Mutt Strutt is set for Saturday, September 29th. Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celebrity emcee of the event. (For more info, please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org.)

Dr. Sandy GoldbergThe 8th Annual Silver Lining Event will be held on Saturday, October 6th, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, located at 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., beginning at 6:30 p.m. This black tie event will be held in the Regency Ballroom and will present darling Sonya Jackson with the EVY Award! Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in honor of her late mother, A Silver Lining Foundation provides cancer resource information and outreach as well as Sterling_eventproviding funding for free screening mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women and men at seven partner hospitals. Can’t wait to celebrate your honor Sonya for this great cause! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)
 
Whew, talk about an action packed month! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy some of these fun events or I hope I will see you at an upcoming one soon! Also, please follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) for breaking news from around this beautiful town!
 
Mable Buckner and husband James BucknerLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful Mable Buckner, who has recently been promoted to President and CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce!!! They are SO lucky to have YOU, Mable! Congrats!

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