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April 15, 2013 · 1:24 pm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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

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

July 16, 2012 · 11:09 am

ARETHA FRANKLIN WOWS N’DIGO GALA CROWD

…PLUS WINDY CITY LIVE’S EXCLUSIVE CELEBRATION, ELI’S BAKES BIG CAKES, CUPID'S ARROWS FIND HEDY AND LAURIE, WORLD’S LARGEST BLOCK PARTY, MARCO'S BENEFIT FOR ONE HOPE UNITED, UPCOMING EVENTS, PEOPLE IN THE NEWS, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

I knew she was called the “Queen of Soul” and I certainly loved her music but it wasn’t until I attended the 17th annual N’Digo Gala that I realized WHY she IS the Queen! This event was something special. First of all, I adore N’Digo Magazine publisher/founder Hermene Hartman. She is a one woman dynamo who loves her community and is the pure definition of giving back with her N’Digo Foundation, which she founded in 1995. This foundation awards merit-based college scholarships to students from Chicago and the suburbs and, to date, has awarded 286. Hermene’s friends and fans are legion and her Gala always includes top notch entertainment plus fun-loving, well-dressed attendees. In years past, performers including Babyface, Ray Charles (with a full orchestra), Jerry Butler and Nancy Wilson, Gladys Knight, Natalie Cole, George Benson, Ledisi and Seal have all appeared at this event. More than 1,500 guests turned out to celebrate the 50th anniversary of soul music as well as to support the foundation at this black-tie gala themed “Legends de Soul.” The dynamic and inspiring program began with hosts Hermene and NBC’s Art Norman welcoming the crowd. Hermene introduced a video showcasing past scholarship recipients and what they’re doing now, saying, “These are the youths who’ve done it their way and are now living their dreams.” It was a wonderful confirmation of the good that this organization does. The 2012 winners were introduced onstage as Pastor Charles Jenkins and the choir of Fellowship Chicago Baptist Church performed their hit song, “Awesome.” Music legends The Impressions took the stage as the concert began at 7 p.m. wowing the audiences with their infectious energy as well as their classic songs that included “Gypsy Woman” and “Super Fly,” which was an homage to the late great Curtis Mayfield. Comedian Jonathan Slocumb – a favorite of Ms. Franklin for his clean-cut style – had the crowd in stitches especially during his impersonation of Reverend Jesse Jackson who happened to be coming down the aisle at the same time. Arie Crown Theater was filled to capacity when the Queen took the stage and announced, “Hello Chicago, here I am!” Before her performance, Michelle Boone, the Mayor’s Cultural Commissioner, proclaimed June 30th to be Aretha Franklin Day in Chicago – it’s good to be Queen! She performed tirelessly for at least two straight hours, never leaving the stage. (The only concession was removing her shoes.) She looked great in a white gown embroidered with large pink/red flowers and her voice rocked the rafters as she sang hits such as “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher” and “Skylark.” She introduced “Skylark” after telling of being turned away from “The Ed Sullivan Show” at age 17 when they told her they had overbooked. She said, “This is the song I was going to sing.” She played the piano during a moving tribute to Whitney Houston as photos were shown overhead. “She was gracious, she was real and my Christian sister,” said Franklin of Houston. As the show continued, photos were also shown of Aretha with greats such as Stevie Wonder, Clive Davis, Don Cornelius, Smokey Robinson and Ray Charles among many others. I couldn’t believe the energy this 70-year-old woman had! It was an incredible history making moment as she finished her performance with “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” to standing ovations…oh what a night! Ms. Franklin has won 18 Grammys and is the first female to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I couldn’t believe she would allow anyone into her dressing room after this tiring performance (let alone me!) but she did and I will never forget it. My cameraman and photog were the only media allowed in her dressing room and I will be forever grateful to Hermene for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…check out my Watch312.com video below! But the party didn’t stop there, as guests moved onto the terrace for more refreshments, small bites and dancing – I even learned how to do the Wobble!! BTW, watch for N’Digo Magazine in your local Walgreen’s coming soon for just $1.00! Guests seen on the scene included Tom Ricketts, Albert Grace, Jr., Wayne Watson, Les Coney, Cassandra Gaddo, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, designer Quinton de’ Alexander, Art Norman, Rick O’Dell, Dionne Williams, Milton Carroll, Jocelyn Stoller, Reverend Helen Carry, Ernesto Borges, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Henderson, Reverend Jesse Jackson, KC McNeil and James Bell. (For more information about this wonderful N’Digo Foundation, click here!)

It’s one of my favorite shows and I’m so glad they're doing SO well! “Windy City Live” hosted its one-year anniversary on June 11th at Epic on Hubbard. I was expecting this by-invite-only party to be jam packed but it was the PERFECT number of people – not too many and not too few. Executive Producer Marlaine Selip explained, “We invited all of the people who’ve made this night possible, our family, our producers, our advertisers and our friends.” It was a joyous affair and the whole place was reserved for this party including their lovely rooftop bar area where everyone seemed to congregate on this perfect summer evening. A giant cake, courtesy of Eli’s Cheesecake, was the first thing guests saw as they entered the venue. Along with Marlaine, “WCL” hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini welcomed the crowd and thanked their many contributors. New General Manager John Idler was in the crowd and laughed as Ryan joked about having his 10-year contract drawn up and ready for him to sign. It was a loving group of supporters who were all there to cheer this great show on. Seen in the crowd were “WCL” Supervising Producer Cindy Patrasso, producer Emerald-Jane Hunter (with hubby Ronny), Dawn Watkins, “WCL” regulars Mark DeCarlo, Nina Chantelle, Hank Mendheim, Billy Dec and Roe Conn (with Barb), “Chicagolicious” stars AJ Johnson and Niki Robinson, winner of “The Bachelorette” Season 5 Ed Swiderski, Kathleen Henson, Debi Lilly, RJ and Jerrod Melman, Cub great Ernie Banks, Amy Tara Koch, Grant DePorter, Chef Kevin Hickey, Terri Hickey, Maureen Schulman, Steve Shern, Jess Altieri, Paul Bryant, Veronica Zepeda, Chuck, Lindsey Avner, Kevin Aeh, Erica Strama, DC Crenshaw, Margaret O’Connor, Jim Karas, Shea Vaughn, Dan Uslan, Lisa Ripson, Brook Jay, Graham Kostic, Nicole Pearl, Stephanie Krol, Nick Harkin, Carly Leviton and Rachel Gillman among many others! HUGE congrats and happy anniversary, “WCL” – Can’t wait to see the mountains you'll climb! (To see ALL the party pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here!)

Maureen and Marc Schulman have been very busy this week! Besides the "WCL" party, they also appeared at the opening of Taste of Chicago! Kelsey Grammer (Chicago Mayor Tom Kane on Starz original hit series “Boss”) performed some "mayoral" duties when he opened Taste by cutting a 1,000-pound Eli's Cheesecake in celebration of Chicago's 175th birthday and the 32nd birthday of Taste of Chicago AND Eli's Cheesecake. Restaurateur Eli Schulman debuted the cheesecake at the first Taste of Chicago in 1980. Grammer, along with the leads from “Rock of Ages,” led the crowd in "Happy Birthday." The cake was then served free to the public. Awwwwww… (Great pics by Jennifer Girard.)

Love was in the air for a popular and much-loved couple who “have been living in sin for the last 43 years," according to Hedy. Hedy Ratner, founder and co-president of the Women’s Business Development Center, and Mort Kaplan, of Morton H. Kaplan and Associates, finally tied the knot after fooling friends and family with a few false starts (some would call them pranks) for the last few years. Last year’s party celebrated Hedy’s birthday with a fake wedding but this time, the nuptials were for real. Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg wrote a delightful column on this remarkable and loving couple and in his interview, he asked them what had changed. “A couple of things,” said Mort. “I had a stroke in January and something happened in that period that I did not like. She wanted to get a prescription filled, and one doctor said, ‘Who are you? You’re the girlfriend.’ And I said, ‘She’s not the girlfriend!’ She was the quarterback of my recovery.” They were married on July 1st at Orchestra Hall. And they will CONTINUE TO live happily ever after! 🙂

Speaking of love, beautiful chanteuse Laurie Marchese is ENGAGED to longtime love, Bill Russ. Laurie lives in LA now but is originally from Oak Lawn and Bill, who also lives in LA, is from Aurora. Their love story could be a Hollywood movie: They met 30 years ago on the set of “Risky Business,” where Bill was an assistant to the producer and a stand-in for Tom Cruise, and Laurie was an extra in a crowd scene at the Highland Park Movie Theater. They had a whirlwind teenage romance and then parted ways as their careers moved in different directions. Fast forward to 2012 after fatefully reuniting, Bill arranged a surprise marriage proposal at the same theater where they met all those years ago and, of course, Laurie said YESSSSSSSSS!!!! Cupid’s arrows have hit their marks AGAIN!! Congrats Laurie and Bill!

The 28th annual World’s Largest Block Party for Old St. Pat’s was another blowout event with almost 18,000 people attending this two-day event in the parking lot across from the Church. This party is known for creating marriage matches and has connected dozens of attendees throughout the years. I was so thrilled to be a guest bartender along with Natalie Martinez, Dean Richards, Ravi Baichwal, Anthony Ponce, Stefan Holt, Marcus Riley, Borris Powell, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson, Jason Knowles, Aly Bockler and Andrea Metcalf. Proceeds support the church and the Center for Social Concerns on the Old St. Pat’s campus, which houses the following outreach programs: Horizons for Youth, Career Transitions Center of Chicago and the Global Alliance for Africa. Ben Folds Five and Lifehouse headlined the event. Watch312.com was THERE to cover all the fun – check it out below!!

Hope you can join me for the second annual White Party in support of One Hope United. Founded by handsome man-about-town Marco Foster, this night will also be a celebration of his birthday! Marco decided what better way to celebrate than to give back with 100 percent of all proceeds going to this wonderful charity whose mission is to protect children and strengthen families in Chicago. Hosted by Akira Chicago’s owner Jon Cotay, WGN’s “Living Healthy Chicago” host Jane Monzures, PR pioneer Chris Foltz and moi, this party with a purpose will be held on July 27th at Underground, located at 56 W. Illinois, from 9 to 11 p.m. Hope to see you there! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

Congrats to David Rothstein and his dynamic and talented music company on their 12-year anniversary! This versatile 11-piece orchestra has won numerous awards, performed for celebrities and Fortune 500 companies, and is regularly flown cross country for special events. And besides being such a talent, he has a big philanthropic heart, too! His “Share the Love” program is nothing short of genius. After weddings, instead of throwing away floral arrangements or begging guests to take them home, David delivers them to the nearest nursing home or women’s and children’s shelters. He has also made numerous charitable contributions of his musical talent. And on top of it all, this cute guy is single, too! (Ladies are you listening?) Anyway, I’m thrilled for his success and can’t wait to watch his star climb even higher! (For more info, please click here and for a sample of his work, see video below.)

After almost 17 years in the luxury and exotic automotive industry, handsome Sven Asmus has decided to pursue his passion. On July 11th, Hilton/Asmus Contemporary Art Gallery opened its doors at 716 N. Wells St. in Chicago’s River North Art District. His gallery will specialize in modern and contemporary paintings, limited edition graphics, glass art, sculpture and photography. A separate division, Art Travel Adventures, will arrange art-related trips throughout the world to places like Spain, Turkey and the Himalayas. For more info, please visit www.hilton-asmus.com. Congrats and good luck, Sven!

Congratulations are in order for Chicago’s own Sherren Leigh! The Arnstein & Lehr law firm is honoring the TCW magazine founder and publisher with its sixth annual Woman of Vision Award on behalf of her Today’s Chicago Woman Foundation, which is highlighting 30 charities for its 30th anniversary. One of these charities, the Chicago Battered Women’s Network is also supported by some of the firm’s attorneys who will be presenting a check earmarked for CBWN. For more info on the TCW Foundation, please click here and for info on CBWN, please click here.

Now for some up and coming Windy City events! This year’s Chicago Dancing Festival will begin on August 20th thru August 25th. Venues for this free-to-the-public festival will include Grant Park, MCA, Millennium Park, Harris Theater and the Auditorium Theater of Roosevelt University. Works will be presented by world class choreographers and performed by top dance companies from across the country. (For more info, please click here!)

Chefs & the City will be returning for its eighth year to the Ritz-Carlton on July 27th. Guests will enjoy savory fare presented by 26 of Chicago’s top chefs to benefit Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care which helps people impacted by HIV/AIDS. The VIP Reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and the Main Tasting at 7:30 p.m. DJ Megan Taylor will be mastering the mixes while Honorary Chairs Amanda Puck, Rich Varnes, Jason Dohmann and Chef Chair Ryan Pitts mix and mingle. There will be a live auction as well as a grand raffle. (For tickets, beginning at $250, visit www.vitalbridges.org.)

“Live.Love.Life: Where Grit Meets Glam,” hosted by WGN’s Jane Monzures, will be held at the Chicago Cultural Center on August 18th from 8 p.m. until midnight. This benefit for Northwestern Memorial Foundation will feature entertainment, fashion and sports all mixed into one philanthropic package! For more info, visit www.live-love-life.org.

Skyline Soiree will be held at the River East Art Center on July 27th from 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by the Associate Board of Ambassadors of the American Cancer Society, this party will include an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and live music by Final Say: A Maggie Speaks Band. For tickets, $95 in advance and $105 at the door, please visit www.skylinesoiree.org.

I am so happy Chuck and I got a chance to take a weekend getaway trip to Michigan – we were thrilled to spend time with good friends in fabulous spots! The lake was like glass and I even tried kayaking for the first time with friends Paul Iacono, Ken Norgan and Pepe Conforme. We also had a delicious dinner at fabulous caterer George Jewell’s Burscott Park estate and met uber-talented interior designer, Jim Dennen. (Friends if you need a designer, OMG call this guy – his home is completely and utterly gorgeous!) Thanks to all for a great time away from my computer, sort of! 🙂 (To view more pics, please click here!)

Well, I hope you’re having loads of summer fun and staying cool! Thanks for joining me again for another edition of my blogazine! If you’re so inclined, please follow me on Twitter and join my Facebook page, Candid Candace. Have a wonderful week!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Loved the pics Diane Edelman sent from her trip to Sapphire, North Carolina. “Every view was picture perfect. It’s incredible what God has created,” said Diane who had travelled there with her beloved Chadwick Randolph Cat IV. :)(To see all of these great pics, click here!)

ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. RECEIVES GENE SISKEL RENAISSANCE AWARD

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

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

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

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

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

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