Tag Archives: World’s Largest Block Party

A FANTASY ISLAND FOR FRIENDS OF PRENTICE GALA

 …PLUS BUNKY’S RL BREAKFAST, GIULIANA AND BILL CELEBRATE AT RPM, KEITH MAGEE’S RSA HONOR, SERVICE CLUB’S MAD HATTER LUNCHEON, MAMIE HONORED AT TIFFANY EYE-BANK KICK-OFF, LISA MADIGAN HOSTS AUTHOR RECEPTION, OLD ST. PAT’S WORLD’S LARGEST BLOCK PARTY, SUMMER LOVIN’ SINGLES PARTY AT MCA, LANGHAM NABS JOE AGUILERA AND SO MUCH MORE!


P1040187With a theme like “Fantasy Island,” it was no surprise that this fun-filled and visual feast attracted more than 800 supporters to the 26th annual Friends of Prentice benefit at Navy Pier recently. Co-chairs Erica Goldman, Chris Newton and Stan Pillman outdid themselves in the planning and event Blog 2 - Co-chair Stan Pillman (center), wife Ginger and frienddécor specialist extraordinaire Derrick Taylor created a fantasy world that included something special around every corner. Beginning with the cocktail reception and silent auction, the Digging for Diamonds raffle was a magnet for guests who dug in a giant sandbox for all sorts of “bling” with tiny golden shovels. The raffle Blog 3 - Trina Gordon McCallister, auctioneer Greg Dellinger and Alex Sabbaggiveaway was a trip for two to Mexico. Additionally, guests could contribute to the Giving Tree, a faux palm tree with leaves that could be pulled off to make donations to fund services at the Prentice Ambulatory Care Center, which Blog 4 - Ross and Suzie Glickman, Paula Fasseas and Dr. Steven Strykerprovides pre- and post-natal care to low-income women. The silent auction had hundreds of items where you could find anything your heart desired including tickets to Lollapalooza (which has been sold out for weeks!), tickets to the Ryder Cup (another sold out Blog 5 - Having fun on Fantasy Island!event), tickets to the Kids’ Choice Awards in L.A., John Oates and Lyle Lovett concert tix, restaurant packages (including dinners at Nellcote, Paris Club, A Tavola and more), a Joffrey Ballet package and getaways to Michigan, London, New Hampshire and Ireland. As guests headed into the Grand Ballroom at Blog 6 - John Rijos, his gorgeous wife (R) and glam friendNavy Pier, event planner Derrick Taylor (whose company, Taylor & Company, is owned by co-chair Erica Goldman) had planned some delicious surprises. First of all, partygoers were lei-ed with orchids before entering into a tropical, elegant beach- Blog 7 - Mike and Alex Jacobson (center) with their proud parentsthemed paradise through a tunnel ending with a faux “waterfall” complete with sounds of the ocean. Tables were adorned with five-foot-tall palm fronds, candles and crystal candelabras much to the delight of guests. I was privileged to participate in the live auction portion of the evening with Mary Gallo (Prentice board member Blog 8 - With Bob and Hedwig Golant, Azeeza Khan and Paul Iaconoand account director for global retail leisure and luxury sales with Starwood Hotels) and star auctioneer, Greg Dellinger, aka G-Man. (If you have any events that require the services of an auctioneer, do yourself a favor: he’s your guy!) The live auction included a Blog 9 - Having fun with the beach gift giveawaysnever-before-offered package at the St. Regis NY with a stay in the Tiffany Suite. There was also an amazing Napa Valley wine lover’s package, an Italian dinner package at Piccolo Sogno and a trip to Mexico at the luxurious St. Regis Resort Punta Mita. I was Blog 10 - Girls just wanna have fun!also honored to present a moving video tribute that featured Alex and Mike Jacobson: They had lost twin boys who were born prematurely but the loving care and support they received at Prentice moved them to join the Board in appreciation. (In October, Alex gave birth to a healthy baby boy.) As the pirates moved into the Blog 11 - With Mary Pat Burns, Sheila O’Grady, friend and Sharyl Mackeydancing crowd with gift bags, the great band Maggie Speaks kept the music pumping. What a great night for charity in Chicago! This event raised $1 million to fund groundbreaking research, clinical care programs and advanced educational opportunities at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Prentice Women’s Hospital. To view ALL pics from this amazing evening, please click here!

Blog 1 - Tim Smithe presents baby rocker to RancicsLast week, Walter E. Smithe and Comcast hosted a finale viewing party for Giuliana and Bill Rancic at RPM Italian restaurant with partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman and acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis. Giuliana and Bill Blog 2 - Kathleen Henson, Luis Gomez and Kelly Zinkwarmly greeted guests taking photos with everyone on the Style Network’s flowery red carpet. Excited fans of their show won tickets and a trip to Chicago for the exclusive party through a sweepstakes on the Style Network. Tim Smithe gifted the Rancics Blog 3 - Alison Rosati, Rancics and Rob Staffordwith a custom Walter E. Smithe rocking chair for their new baby, who will be arriving at the end of the summer. After Tim (a father of six!) offered a few words of advice, Giuliana sat down Blog 4 - Shane Talbott (owner of Talbott Teas) with the Rancicsin the chair and Bill jumped on her lap. Giuliana was overheard saying she hadn’t watched much of the finale episode yet which featured the sold-out FabFest event she hosted with breast cancer advocate and Chicagoan, Lindsay Avner of Bright Pink. (The event Blog 5 - Bill and Giuliana with Larry Wertraised $240,000 for the cause, largely due to Giuliana’s support.) Lindsay and Giuliana were spied excitedly talking about her upcoming baby shower in L.A. The reality duo hinted to another season of “Giuliana and Bill” on Style Blog 6 - With Bill and Giuliana, the IT couple!and joked they were negotiating the baby’s contract. Spotted at the party were Tim Smithe, Mary Astor Smithe, Kathleen Henson, Shane Talbott, Lindsay Avner, Ryan Chiaverini, Allison Rosati, Rob Stafford, Dori Wilson, Tarrah Cooper, Richard Roeper, Erica Strama, Kelly Zink, Brielle Buchberg and Lindsay Segal (co-owners of Luxury Garage Sale), Eric Ferguson (from 101.9 The Mix) and Luis Gomez among many others. (Photos by Jeff Schear and Anjali Pint…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Dusty Stemer (center), chair Sherry Lea Holson (R), and friendThe annual Mad Hatter Luncheon benefitting the Service Club of Chicago filled the elegant Chicago Club on Van Buren with 260 ladies sporting all varieties of chapeaux! Chaired for the second Blog 2 - Mamie Walton, Hazel Barr and Lynn McMahanyear by SC member Sherry Lea Holson, this event also featured private hat collections by renowned designer Raymond Hudd which were on loan from collectors Mary Robak, Iris Sholder and Eia Radosavljevic. While the ladies sipped Blog 3 - Monika Dixon, Julianne Glatz and Kathy O’Malley Picconecocktails and browsed the collection, a panel of judges that included Bill Zwecker, Robin Robinson and Elizabeth Hamel selected winners in various categories. The Most Original hat award went to Blog 4 - Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Sheryl DyerTammy Beeler; the Most Fashionable was worn by Sarena Weil; Best Spring Ensemble was won by Rosa Guidarelli; the Best Fascinator was awarded to Jessica Priego and the Mad Hatter’s Choice was awarded to Hazel Barr. The winners won beautiful hats Blog 5 - Elizabeth Brodsky and Lisa Krausdonated by beloved milliner Loreta Corsetti, Laura Whitlock Millinery, Carlucci Millinery; Jenny Pfanenstiel of Former Millinery and, last but least, Nicole Betti of Gold Coast Couture. SC Prez Blog 7 - Karen Peters and Sally Jo MorrisVonita Reescer welcomed the guests and introduced speaker Jenny Pfanenstiel who delighted the ladies with a lecture on “The Hat Life of Raymond Hudd.” During the presentation, models from Zzazz Productions (Tracy Tarantino) walked throughout the venue wearing the hats Blog 6 - Anne Wallace, Sherren Leigh and Tiffani Kimon display. Each guest received a note holder and pen set and the floral
basket centerpieces were donated and created by Arturo from Lord & Mary Florist of Lake Forest. (Photos by John Reilly Studios…view more here!)

Blog 1 - Cornelia Guest, host Bunky Cushing and Sherrill BodineI’ve never been to RL Restaurant at such an early hour as I did recently for Bunky Cushing’s fourth annual “Early Birds & Bookworms” breakfast but it was sure worth it! The room was packed with Blog 2 - Bill Zwecker, Linda Heister and Stanley Paulbold-faced names waiting to see and hear guest speaker Cornelia Guest. Daughter of fashion icon C.Z. Guest and Winston Frederick Churchill Guest, Cornelia is a polo champion, handbag designer, baker and heir to the Phipps steel fortune. Blog 3 - Dusty Stemer, Lynn McMahan, Kristina McGrath and Toni CanadaHer father was a cousin of Winston Churchill. In 1982 she was named “Debutante of the Year” and “Deb of the Decade” in 1986. Her mother was 1937’s “Deb of the Year” and also the guest Blog 4 - Lynda Silverman, Leslie Zentner, Myra Reilly and Sherren Leighspeaker at Bunky’s first hat luncheon 15 years ago! Besides her remarkable family history, she has made a name for herself in her own right: She is the author of “The Debutante’s Guide to Life” and, on this day, was signing her latest book, Blog 5 - Zarada Gowenlock and Mamie WaltonCornelia Guest’s Simple Pleasures.” From childhood, Cornelia had an aversion to eating animal products due to her love for all creatures great and small. When her mother became ill, her research steered her toward a cruelty-free diet. In her latest book, she reveals secrets Blog 6 - Melissa Babcock and Kerry Kennedy Mudd with a cute friendshe learned from her parents’ privileged lifestyles as well as her favorite, simple recipes. Her tips on entertaining take the stress out of any meal and, as she laughingly stated during her talk she “is far from a master chef.” The book is organized by seasons with contributions from her favorite chefs, doctors, a veterinarian and other health experts. She charmed the crowd with her self-effacing banter and blonde, Palm Beach good looks and Blog 7 - Marcia Buchanan, Sarena Weil and Dusty Stemerwas on her way to Bloomingdale’s to promote her cruelty-free (made of PVC) and already-popular Hazel Barr and Lori Danielsnew handbag line (under $300) which she launched a year ago. Seen in the crowd were Bill Zwecker, Tom Gorman, Zarada Gowenlock, Hazel Barr, Cornelia’s handsome husband and doggie, Toni Canada, Sherren Leigh, Nina Mariano, Linda Heister, Mamie Walton, Lynda Silverman, Myra Reilly Dr. Stacie McClane and Mary Lasky(sporting a short new ‘do she cut herself!), Stanley Paul, Lori Daniels, Dusty Stemer (whose cute son, Zac, is working for the Sun-Times now), Mary Lasky, Lynn McMahan, Sarena Weil (carrying a croc Birken similar to the one sawed in half on Dina Eastwood’s reality show “Mrs. Eastwood & Co.”), Blog 8 - Sean Eshaghy (left) and cute friendsDr. Stacie McClane and more. Long may you reign, Cornelia and Bunky! “Early Birds & Bookworms” benefitted the Jane Addams Senior Caucus and was completely underwritten by the Gibson Group…awwwwww, so nice! Even nicer: The breakfast raised more than $20,000 for the Senior Caucus! (Click here for more fun pics.)

Joe Aguilera 54I just can’t wait for the new Langham Hotel to open in Chicago! Slated to open in 2013, it will be a 316-room luxury hotel in one of the city’s most famous downtown riverfront landmarks – a Mies van dere Rohe-designed building at 330 N. Wabash Ave. But the most exciting part of this news is that long time Elysian VP, Joe Aguilera, will be its Director of Sales and Marketing! I adore Joe, as those who know him do, and know he will be a fabulous addition! Currently, 29 member hotels are open or in the pipeline across four continents; to find out where and more info, please visit www.langhamhospitalitygoup.com. I will see YOU soon, Joe, at this sure-to-be elegant spot!

Keith Magee—RSA FellowAnd more kudos are in order for another beloved Chicagoan Keith Magee who is the executive officer of the much-anticipated National Public Housing Museum. On June 7th, he was named as a Fellow to the Royal Society of the Arts of the United Kingdom. “RSA Fellows inspire innovative thinking, enable positive change and support each other to create an enlightened space to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.” – this describes Keith to a T, as he wears his desire to make the world a better place on his sleeve. “I'm just attempting to do what I'm required – as my grandfather has said – for as long as I can remember: ‘You have to pay your rent for taking Blog 2 - Keith Magee speaking at NPHM benefit (pic by Brian Powers)up space on earth.’ And, the resounding message of my father (now deceased), ‘Your wealth will never be determined by what you have in the bank. It will be based on the deposit you made for the next generation.’ So, really, I'm just filling the requirements. :-)” I look forward to seeing and hearing a LOT more about this remarkable man.

Linda O'KeefeIt’s with a heavy heart that I’m announcing the move by Common ThreadsLinda Novick O’Keefe to Austin, Texas. Her husband, Nick, was given an offer he couldn’t refuse from the state of Texas, so of course, the family will follow. However, she will be back every month to monitor her beloved Common Threads, where she will continue to serve as the organization’s executive director. With the world living on computers, we can all do business any
where we like and with Common Threads opening up new facilities across the country, Linda will be smack dab in the middle! Common Threads co-founder Chef Art Smith said, “I think Austin is a very exciting young community where many opportunities exist that could help us grow even more.” I love you LNO and wish you and your beyond-adorable family all the best! See you soon!

BW2logo“Bridal Wave” Season 2 is looking for brides-to-be for the hottest, live online show produced by Kenmore Studios! Audition for a chance to win a $10,000 Kenmore Dream Kitchen by clicking here! “Bringing the wisdom of the world to brides-to-be everywhere on July 13th!”

Blog 1 - Stanley Paul and MamieThe Kick-Off for the upcoming Illinois Eye-Bank Gala (set for Thursday, June 14th) was recently hosted at Tiffany’s by VP Cathy Elward and Group Director Liza Zito along with Peter Latz, the Chairman of the Blog 2 - Suzanne LeMignot, Larisa Kronfeld, Sherrill BodineIllinois Eye-Bank Board. Supporters came out to congratulate Mamie Walton, this year’s Woman of Vision, and Dr. Joel Sugar, the Gift of Sight honoree. Always elegantly attired, on this night Mamie was wearing a simple black Blog 3 - Liza Zito and Hazel Barrdress which highlighted her Tiffany Strawberry pin by Jean Schlumberger on her shoulder. Accompanied by long-time friend Stanley Paul, she greeted guests with that charming British accent and winning smile. Liza Zito welcomed the crowd and Diane Hollingsworth, Executive Blog 4 - Leslie and Bob ZentnerDirector of the IEB, thanked Mamie for her support and presented her with a pair of Tiffany cat-eye shaped sunglasses. The June 14th soiree at the Peninsula, “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” will be emceed by Bill Zwecker. Guests will be transported across the pond to the famed London nightclub, Annabel’s – the exclusive Blog 5 - Mark Roscoe and Kimberly Palmisanomember-only club catering to royalty, celebs and an elite clientele. Guests seen at the Kick-Off party included Myra and John Reilly, Hazel and Warren Barr, Tiffani Kim and Brad Ingram, Dr. David Donnesberger and Claire Kenneally, Rich Varnes and Cynthia King, Tom Segesta, Amy Wimer and Ed Wlodarczyk, Ken Norgan, Charles Hocevar, Suzanne LeMignot, Sherrill Bodine, Vonita Reescer, Larisa Kronfeld, Megan McKinney, John Regas, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern and Helen and Ralph Applegate. For tickets and more info to “A Posh Night at Annabel’s,” click here and to view more images from this event, view this gallery!

Blog 1 - Crowd scene at WLBP 2011Don’t miss Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party coming on June 29th and 30th! Headliner is Ben Folds Five with Life House also performing! The WLBP is a Chicago summer tradition supporting Old St. Pat’s many missions including Horizons for Youth, Career Transitions Center of Blog 2 - Having fun at WLBP 2011Chicago and Global Alliance for Africa to name a few. Chicago celebs will be bartending and the food will be awesome! Come out and say hi- to Natalie Martinez, Dean Richards, Ravi Baichwal, Andrea Metcalf, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson, Stefan Holt, Anthony Ponce, Rob Stafford, Marcus Riley, Borris Powell, moi aussi, and many others! For more info, please check out my PSA below!! 

Randolph St. Market AdAmerica’s oldest and liveliest urban antiques market, the Randolph Street Market, will be returning to 1340 W. Randolph on Saturday and Sunday, June 23rd and 24th with more than 250 vendors! There will be plenty of art, fashion, antiques, vintage treasures, decorator finds, food, drinks, music and FUN! Come out and see for yourself! I can’t wait to see what jewelry dealer Ira Scheck brings this time!

Chefs-kick-off-inviteOn Wednesday, June 13th, Vital Bridges is hosting a kick-off party at Studio Paris for their annual Chefs & the City fundraising event. This year, CATC will be held on July 27th at the Ritz-Carlton featuring delicious bites from the city’s best chefs including Ryan Pitts (RL Restaurant), Ryan Poli (Tavernita), Doug Psaltz (RPM Italian), Moosa Reaume (Pump Room) and more! For tickets and more info, please click here!

Summer Lovin' InviteThe Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Chicago magazine will present the 12th annual Summer Lovin’ event on Friday, June 15th, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 7 to10:30 p.m. Auxiliary Board President Laura Beres said, “Our sponsors and the magazine’s featured singles provide Chicago’s young professionals with an unforgettable evening of food, drinks and fun!” NBC 5’s Stefan Holt and Cheryl Scott will be the emcees and Watch312 (Candid Candace Chicago) will be there to cover all the fun! For tickets ($85) and more info, please click here.
 
Wags to Wishes Invite ImageWags to Wishes’ inaugural dinner and auction benefit will be held on Saturday, June 16th, at the Meadows Club, located at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows, Ill. from 6 to10 p.m. This event will benefit Young at Heart Pet Rescue, an organization dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of senior dogs and cats. As the only rescue dedicated exclusively to older animals, they have provided “happily ever afters” for close to 500 senior dogs and cats that would’ve otherwise been euthanized in traditional shelters. For tickets ($65) and more info, please click here!
 
Jodee Blanco and Lisa MadiganCongrats to Chicago author Jodee Blanco, on her latest and very timely book, “Please Stop Laughing at Me.” This book tells her compelling personal story about being bullied as a child. Attorney General Lisa Madigan interviewed Jodee and outlined initiatives taken to counter cyber bullying at Studio Paris at The Paris Club with more than 200 guests in attendance. To order Jodee’s book, please click here.  

Anita and Ken BrownCongrats to my long-time friends from across the pond, Anita and Ken Brown, on their 33rd wedding anniversary! We’ve traveled a lot together and these two lovebirds never age. They have only grown more in love with each other over the years! We love and miss you guys – congrats on your anniversary!

Glamorama-save-the-date-Aug-10Well, this is it for now! Hope your summer is off to a roaring start! Stay tuned for Macy’s Glamorama Launch Party news and more Watch312 videos coming soon! Mark your calendars for the main event on August 10th at the Harris Theatre with Robin Thicke and Karmin benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana! (For more info and tix, please click here.)
 
Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Chicagolicious promoP.S. I was so thrilled to see the premiere of the Style Network’s newest reality show, “Chicagolicious,” in its glorious debut Monday night! I was even more thrilled to find out that my blog and I played such a big role! The show revolved around darling With Howard Godfrey for premiere of Chicagolicioussalon owner AJ Johnson and his cute team trying to find a way to be included on this website! I’ve gotten so many Twitter requests that I can’t believe it and the hits on my blog the following morning were amazing! The power of television – WOWZA! Here’s what AJ had to say about my blog on the show: “Candace Jordan’s blog is The Style Networkthe most important society blog in the country. We have to be mentioned on it if we want to be nationally recognized. If we can get on Candid Candace, we will have lines wrapped around the block for the salon!” Oh, AJ and “Chicagolicious,” how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Thanks SO much for including me and Candid Candace in such big way! Love you, love your show, love that adorable cast! Good luck!

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TWO CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS HOLD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS: GENE & GEORGETTI AND KATHY O’MALLEY!

Blog 1 - Marion and Tony Durpetti Gene & Georgetti owners, Marion and Tony Durpetti, welcomed hundreds of guests over the course of three days as they recently celebrated the 70th anniversary of their Blog 2 legendary restaurant located at 500 N. Franklin. For this momentous occasion, they featured 1940’s décor and offered a prix-fixe, four course menu with old-time favorites that included stuffed celery, minestrone soup, mostaccioli, anchovy canapés, broiled strips, filets Blog 3 - Julie and John Hendricks and pork chops, chicken Vesuvio and whitefish. Sides included sautéed spinach, broiled mushrooms and cottage fried potatoes. The entire bill (excluding tax and gratuity) was only $15.25. You can certainly see why reservations went Blog 4 - Marion Durpetti and cute friends faster than Paul McCartney tickets. Guests were seen sipping Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, Rob Roys and Hiballs as they enjoyed the Lucille Ball, Carmen Miranda, Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn Blog 5 - Chuck with Jamie Gaballa and Tracy Powell and Veronica Lake impersonators. Magician David Kovac enchanted the crowd before the big band, Sway, began at 8:30 with a cake cutting ceremony that Blog 6 - Donn and Jeannie Seidholz included all of the guests. General Manager, Richard Ciota, said, “I don’t work a day in my life. These guys are like my family.” The restaurant served 1,100 lunches and dinners each day and night with ALL proceeds benefitting Common Threads, The Standing Tall Foundation and St. Vincent DePaul Blog 7 - Tracey Di Buono, Dominic DiFrisco and candy girl Center. Congrats also to Tony and Marion’s daughter, Michelle, for planning and promoting this great three-day celebration for wonderful causes!

Blog 1 - Birthday girl Kathy O’Malley Chicago’s Hostess with the Mostest, Kathy O’Malley Piccone, celebrated her 50th birthday in grand style at Blog 2 - Kathy surrounded by friends Moe’s Cantina recently. We have been friends for years and years (truth be known, since Faces days…all of you over 50 will know what I mean!) and she has always been one of the nicest people I know. Blog 3 - Corey Bernstein, Kath and Jim Levin It’s no wonder Gibson’s is so very successful having her at the front desk meeting and greeting every customer like they are long Blog 4 - Host BJ Murray with Rose Mandel (R) and friend lost friends. And, in many cases, they are! She’s been featured on the cover of TCW in their “Powerful Women” issue and in many Blog 5 - With Jimmy Damon and Chilli Pepper other articles and publications. She should’ve run for Mayor! Her long-time friend, BJ Murray, had Cece Gonzalez, Bonni Gross and Melinda Joseph been at Moe’s all day inputting tons of photos which were shown on the multiple video screens throughout the venue. Hundreds of friends showed up and stayed into the wee hours of the morning. Long may she reign! Love you Kath! Happy BD!!! (To view more party pics, most by Steve Starr, click here.)

Blog 1 - Barenaked Ladies Old St. Pat’s recently celebrated two days of music, food and fun at their 27th Annual World’s Largest Block Party. This is one of the most anticipated events of the summer with Blog 2 - OSP’s Beth Marek and Steve Jaeger almost 20,000 people attending this year. Dubbed the “party with a purpose,” this event featured music by Farraday, Plain White T’s, Cobra Starship, Out for Hours, Spazmatics, No Love for Linus, Matt Nathanson Blog 3 - OSP Griller hard at work! and Barenaked Ladies. The food stands held all of the expected delights of a summer festival and then some including BBQ from Robinson’s Ribs, rotisserie chicken and pork and corn on the cob from Blog 4 - Megan and Paul Moffat Nicholas Quality Meats, Good Humor ice cream, Quang Noodles’ crab Rangoon, pad Thai and shrimp fried rice, burgers and brats from Old St. Pat's Grill & Bones Grill, funnel cakes, foot-long corn dogs, Wisconsin cheddar cheese Blog 5 curds and coconut shrimp from Suzie’s Fun Foods and Connie’s Pizza. In a word, heaven! As one of the celebrity bartenders, I even learned how to pour a perfect cup of beer! FYI, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy was a run away winner! Other celeb bartenders included Windy City Live’s Blog 6 - Conor Gee and Becky Terlep Ryan Chiaverini, NBC 5 reporter Anthony Ponce, Fox 32 meteorologist Blog 7.jpg Tammie Souza, Fox 32 reporter and anchor Kori Chambers, WGN-TV anchor Lourdes Duarte and ABC 7 reporter John Garcia among others. This event is also a matchmaker’s dream come true having Blog 8 introduced 102 couples, who are now married, after meeting at this Block Party! So mark your calendars now Blog 9 - John Garcia, Ryan Chiaverini, Anthony Ponce, Tammie Souza, Kori Chambers, Lourdes Duarte for next year…maybe YOU could be next!!! Proceeds from this event goes towards Old St. Pat’s dozens of global outreach programs. (To view ALL pics, with additional photos by Gary Chang, please click here). 

Blog 1 - Lindsay Avner, Corri McFadden and Nicole Guarascio Four hundred guests dressed in their Sunday best to attend Bright Pink's "For the Women We Love" high tea celebration. Celeb TV's Blog 2 - Lindsay with Bright Impact Honoree Carolyn Brundage Kelli Zink emceed the fourth annual benefit, which raised over $80,000, and also included musical entertainment by former Broadway performer, Laurie Akers, who sang Rascal Flatts' "I Won't Let Go." There were heartfelt and empowering stories from young women Blog 3 - Randi Lustig, Lindsay, Carli and Taylor Lustig in the Bright Pink community as well as the presentation of the "Bright Impact Award" which was presented to Carolyn Brundage, the founder of Blog 4 - Amy Sweet, Lisa Elbert, Latonia Baker and Dalia Holmes Pretty City. This successful entrepreneur and beauty columnist has raised nearly $100,000 through her "Pretty in Pink" campaign which Blog 5 - Laurie and Brad Akers benefits breast cancer charities. Bright Pink founder, Lindsay Avner, has created much needed awareness with her organization that supports, enlightens and empowers young women to be proactive with their breast and ovarian health. To learn more and for donations, please visit www.bebrightpink.org. (To view ALL event pics by Steve Feferman, please click here!)

 

 

Blog 1 - Co-chairs Dawn & Jim O’Neal with Winston & Dominick Congrats to another great year for PAWS! Their 9th Annual All Paws on Deck Beach Party was a tail-wagging success! US99’s Lisa Dent, who was the emcee again this year, auctioned off Blog 2 - Co-chairs Nancy and Ron Officer some exciting packages that included two tickets to “Dancing With the Stars” (won again this year by Tails in the City’s Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh). Judy and Howard Tullman won the right to showcase their five Blog 3 - Bonnie Spurlock with emcee US99.5’s Lisa Dent “kids” next year in the always hotly anticipated PAWS poster. This year’s benefit was chaired by Nancy and Ron Officer along with Dawn Blog 4 - Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh with the kids and Jim O’Neal. PAWS founder, Paula Fasseas, welcomed guests Deborah and Bruce Crown, last year’s co-chair Bonnie and Jim Spurlock, Kim Gleeson, Blog 5 - Colleen Garard, Lindsay Carlton and Carol Walter Alexis Fasseas, Kathy Hinton, Christine and John Mallul, Carol and John Walter, Carole Mack, Gigi Ross, Sue and Wes Dixon, Dr. Barbara Royal, Colleen Blog 6 - Dr. Barbara Royal, Alexis Fasseas and Len Goodman Garard, Lindsay Carlton, Len Goodman, Angie DeMars and Cheri Lawrence to name a few. Presenting sponsors included North Blog 7 - Haleigh Bernbaum and Jeffrey Levine with Winston Community Bank, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock and Pomellato. This event raised $212,000 this year. Congrats PAWS and keep up Blog 8 - Cheri Lawrence and Kim Gleeson with Bentley and Lucy the good work in support of our beloved four-legged friends! Mark your calendars now for the Fur Ball coming to the Drake Hotel on Friday, November 11th. For tickets and more info, please visit www.pawschicago.org.

 

Blog 1 - DOT Co-chairs Jean Antoniou and Tracey Di Buono with Greg Hyder The Service Club of Chicago’s “Day on the Terrace” luncheon and fashion show is just around the corner, August 1st, and I hope you all have your Blog 2 - DOT Founder and Chair Emeritus Hazel Barr tickets for this 25th annual event which promises to be a show stopping fashion extravaganza featuring real women and men wearing the best Fall 2011 Blog 3 - Celebrity model Chilli Pepper fashions from Chicago’s premier retailers. Participating stores include Escada, Intermix, Luca Luca, Tory Burch, Paul Stuart, Lulu’s at the Belle Kay, Saks Fifth Avenue Men, Mark Shale Women’s and Men’s and a Invite designed by Jacqueline Kim finale presented by Neiman Marcus that will include selections from their evening wear and fur collections. The event, which will be held at the Peninsula, was the first event ever held at this hotel when it first opened 10 years ago. Fashion Chairs include Jean Antoniou, Tracey Di Buono and Hazel Barr. Look for some celebrity guest appearances, too! All proceeds from this popular event benefits the Service Club, which supports grants established by government or corporate entities. Tickets are $175.  For tix and more info, please call Jean Antoniou at 630.564.5700.

Blog 1 - Matthew Masillani, Patrick Sheahan, athletes Tom and Betty, Glen Drafke Congrats to UBS for giving back! Two hundred UBS volunteers participated for the Special Olympics Softball Competition Day at Grant Blog 3 - Special Olympic athlete Bryan Jackson Park this year. This is the 13th year that UBS volunteers have totally produced the two days of fun activities supporting Special Olympic athletes. UBS Head of Community Affairs, Patrick Sheahan, said, “It’s a very Blog 2 - Glen Drafke, athletes Tom and Betty, Patrick Sheahan, Matthew Masillani fulfilling and rewarding event. Every athlete is a winner and every athlete walks away with a medal.” This year, there were more than 750 participants. Congrats to UBS for being such an excellent example of corporate responsibility! 

Logo Step Up Women’s Network will launch its first signature event in Chicago, “Shine & Dine,” on Thursday, August 18th, at Galleria Marchetti beginning at 6 PM. The evening will feature philanthropy and seasonal Honorary Chair Valerie Warner fare from Chicago’s hottest restaurants while welcoming 400 local professionals and notables. Valerie Warner, co-host of Windy City Live, will serve as Honorary Charo for this inaugural event. Step Up Managing Director, Gina Marotta, said, “Step Up has been a fixture in Chicago for five years and this special event is the perfect way to celebrate our work with local women and girls, as well as attract new enthusiasts to our cause.” I hope to see you there! For tickets and more info, please visit www.suwn.org.  

Leslie Congrats are in order for friends Leslie Hindman, Amanda Puck and Debra Baum! Leslie had a Amanda fantastic half-page article by Melissa Harris in Sunday’s Tribune about her expanding business empire! She will be opening up new locations in Palm Beach and Milwaukee (she recently opened in Naples, too) and she’s busier Debra than ever! Amanda has started a food blog and it’s fantastic! Who better to write about food than AMANDA?! And last but not least, Debra also has a new website devoted to health issues for women over 30. It will have daily updates with a dose of humor! 

Article Good luck and congrats to one and all!!! I hope you are enjoying my new column in the Chicago Tribune called “Chicago Scene.” I am so proud to be the new social columnist for this venerable newspaper that has just been through a major overhaul! My column appears weekly in the Sunday Magazine section, full page, full color! 🙂

Blog 1 - Chicago Unplugged host DC Crenshaw And lastly, the launch is coming soon for www.Watch312.com, an online network of Chicago-centric shows! This network and its team of experts from Illinois Center for Broadcasting will provide viewers with a Blog 2 - Watch.312 editor Josh Orr, Social Circles producer Jill Bastian and Production Director John Basile portal connecting them to everything Windy City! DC Crenshaw’s show, "Chicago Unplugged," covers the restaurant scene from top to bottom and everything in-between while Dr. Sandy Goldberg’s call-in show, "LIVE! With Dr. Sandy," will address nutritional and health Blog 4 - With cameraman Fred Jackson, photog Mila Samokhina, and cameraman Corey O'Brien concerns in a non traditional yet informative way. Her co-host is radio veteran Scott Mackay. As the host for “Social Circles,” I will be bringing Blog 3 - Dr. Sandy Goldberg and co-host Scott Mackay you a behind-the-scenes look into charity events, parties, movie premieres, celebrities, nightlife and more! Check it out and let me know what you think! We are still in the early stages with lots of tweaking to do but I wanted to make you aware of all of the excitement to come!!! 🙂

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

And THAT is the lowdown on Chicago’s MANY highlights for this week! Hope to “see” you next week, same time, same place!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Here is an inspiring video that will put our petty, daily concerns in the right perspective. This young Chinese girl began playing the piano three years ago and she plays masterfully, despite the fact that she has no fingers on her right hand. Miracles are all around us if we just look for them.

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