Candid Candace

CHICAGO MAGAZINE CHOOSES FIVE “MEN TO WATCH!”

Chicago magazine could not have chosen five better men to feature in their upcoming “Men to Watch” article. Greg Hyder, Emmanuel Nony, Rick Gresh, Tom Kehoe and Luca Lanzetta are not only extremely good businessmen but they’re also gorgeous and, best of all, really NICE guys! Yeah!!! Finally, nice counts for something in this crazy world! I could not be happier for them AND for Chicago magazine under the new leadership of publisher Rich Gamble. Rich could also be one of the “Men to Watch” but then I guess this wouldn’t really look good since it IS his magazine but in any case, he is already breathing fresh life into a Chicago favorite and I wish him the very best! Back to the guys: David Yurman hosted a bash at 40 E. Oak to celebrate these “Men to Watch” and even a cold rainy night couldn’t keep the legions of friends and fans away from toasting these deserving guys. Champagne glasses tinkled, toasts were made and the gorgeous Yurman jewelry beckoned everyone. Store manager Laura Wallace had her hands full just trying to keep up with the demands behind the counter. Chicago’s fashion editor, Stacey Jones, snagged a magnificent “Hampton Blue” ring (sterling silver with diamonds) while Cindy Burns picked up a stunning “Confetti” ring. The only honoree missing was Tom Kehoe and, as you may know from the last installment of Candid Candace, he had a REALLY good excuse: Tom and his crew were busy decorating the White House for Halloween! I am so thrilled for him…he must’ve thought Christmas came early this year! His business, Kehoe Designs, has been around since 1996 and he has always been the go-to guy for event décor and design. It seems like everywhere you go, you are at a party or event where he has worked his magic. I once took a tour of his design space and I felt like Alice falling down the rabbit hole. He truly brings dreams to life as Michelle and Barack know by now. Our next “Man to Watch” is Emmanuel Nony. Born in Lille, France, Emmanuel is the owner of the River West restaurant, Sepia located at 123 N. Jefferson. Sepia is on everyone’s hot list and offers a product-driven seasonal menu by Chef Andrew Zimmerman in a rustic yet contemporary space. Emmanuel is an extremely dapper guy who says his clothing choices have been influenced by his nine years spent in Asia—at the Park Hyatt Tokyo to be exact  (where “Lost in Translation” was filmed). He’s a gracious and charming selection for this feature. Rick Gresh, another restaurateur, is the executive chef at David Burke’s Primehouse. Rick has an impressive resume: He grew up in the Cleveland area earning an associate degree in culinary arts at the nationally renowned Culinary Institute of America. He landed an externship at the Waldorf-Astoria and, as executive chef of Green Dolphin Street, he was awarded a 3-star review from the Chicago Tribune. In 2001, Gresh was named a “Rising Star of American Cuisine” by the James Beard Foundation and in 2006 he was a USA finalist in the prestigious Bocuse D’Or competition. As you can see, yet another winning honoree! Greg Hyder has always been a “Man to Watch” in my opinion. Besides being a good friend, he is also the “King of Fun.” If Greg hasn’t been there, then you don’t want to go. He is an enthusiastic friend to so many and you can’t look at a charity host committee where his name doesn’t appear. And I don’t mean his name is just added and he doesn’t do any work….he works harder than anyone! He is a wonderful ambassador for the Peninsula Hotel as catering director where he brings his own unique brand of charm, grace and style. There isn’t a best dressed list that he hasn’t been on and deservedly so! Mark your calendars now for the May 21st Gift of Sight Gala where he will also be awarded the 2010 Man of Vision Award. I couldn’t be happier for him! And last but certainly not least, we have Luca Lanzetta and, at the risk of embarrassing him, he had the girls swooning for most of the evening. He’s a dashing man with an obvious flair for business. He has two showrooms in the Mart — Ernestomeda (specializing in modern, unique kitchen design) as well as Antoniolupi (specializing in modern European bathrooms). Born in Rome, his business holdings are international.  He is an engineer by trade hence his strong design sensibilities which enhances his vision for his clients. He’s a very charming man and another very deserving honoree. Congrats to all and look for this upcoming issue of Chicago magazine to see more of these “Men to Watch!” Click here to view more photos.

If you didn’t see the fabulous documentary “The Heart of Hollywood: The Chicago Link” produced by our very own Brenda Sexton and Resolution Digital Studios this weekend then, sadly, you missed a great tribute to Chicago film talent. On September 21st in Santa Monica, there was a star-studded reunion of Chicago’s entertainment icons at La Grande Orange, a new restaurant owned by Chicagoans Rich Melman, his sons RJ and Jerrod and restaurateur Bob Lynn. Richard Roeper and Bill Zwecker were the red carpet hosts and also interviewed many from the Chicago film community including writers, directors, producers and actors for this film such as Harold Ramis, Chris O’Donnell, Joe Mantegna, Virginia Madsen, Tom Dreesen, Jeff Garlin, Bonnie Hunt, Effie Brown, Bob Teitel, Peter Jacobson, Ed Bernero, Gary Gray, Andrew Alexander, Steve Conrad, Steve Jones and Martha Lavey among others. Tom Dreesen, the emcee for both the LA event and the Chicago premiere, stated, “Chicagoans in LA are a very loyal crowd. There is nothing more fun than getting together and hanging out, eating real Chicago pizza in LA. And we naturally talk about our projects and figure out ways to bring that business back home. Recently, at the grand Elysian Hotel, there was a party to celebrate the premiere of this film. These two events successfully united two cities that are both steeped in rich cultural traditions and I congratulate the event sponsors AT&T, United Airlines, Columbia College and the Elysian for having the foresight to support such a wonderful endeavor. Guests attending included former Super Bowl Bear, Richard Dent, Elysian hosts Mary Beth Malone and David Pisor, Peg and Steve Lombardo, Bruce MacArthur, Billy Marovitz, Lee and Jeff Facklis, Jeff Jacobs, Marty and Jack Higgins, Maureen Schulman, Dick Portillo, Denis Healy, Mickey Norton, Trevian Kutti, Patrick Plante, Jocelyn Stoller, Gina Macchitelli, Julee White, Eitsa Bizios, Sarah Cooley, Michelle Carney, Meghan Roskopf, Amy Grundman, Susan Bloomquist, Nicolle Briscoe and Sean Eshagy. The host committee included Carrie Birkel, Christopher Conway, Senator Ken Dunkin, Chaz Ebert, Sonya Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Debbie Marchese, Lyn McKeaney, Helen Melchior, Rich, RJ and Jerrod Melman, Susanna Negovan, Steve Traxler, Julee White and Larry Wert among others. (Additional photos by Jennifer Girard.) For more photos, click here.

Steve Starr is one of my favorite photographers but he’s so much more than this. I have known Steve for 25 years since he had Steve Starr Studios on Clark Street. He had every manner of unique finds there but what I remember most were all of those exquisite vintage art deco frames holding photos of every major star from the Hollywood studio days. His book, “Picture Perfect—Art Deco Photo Frames 1926-1946” published by Rizzoli International Publications, showcased many of these rare frames and now he is coming out with another book!  His latest venture, called “STARRLIGHT—Glamorous Latin Movie Stars of Early Hollywood,” will be published in 2010 and will include images of Rita Hayworth, Carmen Miranda, Dolores Del Rio and Lupe Velez among others. It seems he has photographed just about everybody who is anybody including Beyonce, Mickey Rooney, Dionne Warwick, Angie Dickinson, Carlos Zambrano, Jaslene Gonzalez, William Peterson, Geraldo Rivera, Chaz Palminterri, Jamie Foxx, Lynda Carter, Rita Moreno, Tony Curtis, Martin Landau, Debra Messing and Princess Yasmin Aga Kahn, to name a very few. Steve’s photography also appears in most of the publications around town and I’ve been lucky enough to use many of his pics in Candid Candace. He recently attended a Hollywood Collectibles convention and was kind enough to share some photos with me. Take a look at them now…I guess this just proves that we will all grow old, but some of us better than others! Thanks for the memories Steve! We will be looking forward to your new book! Check out SteveStarrStudios.com where you can visit the Starrlight Room, view a portion of Steve’s famous frame collection, read Starrlight stories and enjoy photos, letters and autographs he has received from his favorite luminaries over the years. :) (Photos by Steve Starr, obviously!) Click here for even more of Steve's fantastic photos.

Every fall my friend John Young hosts one of the most coveted parties around and this year he pulled out all stops. He hosted a party at his magnificent Brompton Gardens showcasing the fabulous Malbec wines of Cahors in the southwestern region of France. The history of Cahors winemaking goes back to the era of ancient Rome and was even served on the tables at the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitane to Henry II of England. The party always includes members of academia, city officials, Chicago’s social elite and friends and neighbors and since he is a garden designer/artist non pareil, everyone is anxious to attend. His many private and commercial projects win almost every coveted design award at the Mayor’s annual competition (Our garden won second place in the residential division under his masterful vision). Lucky guests in attendance included Kathleen Charles, John Robert Wiltgen, Alicia Loftis, David Dodson, Marina Kibardina, retired U.S. Army Brigadier General, Roy R. Moscato, VP of Rush University, Kathleen Andreoli, Steven Doi, Roy May, Joyce and Bruce Chelberg, Charles Vuono, Dr. Chris Henley, Debbie Galasi and Jeff Hoosin among others. Can’t wait until next year John to see how you will top this! (Additional photos by Ron Capek.) Click here for more photos.
 
I am so proud to congratulate my friend Judge Mary Patricia Burns! Just last week the Illinois State Senate confirmed her appointment to the Illinois Court of Claims. Her brother, renowned sports writer Martin Burns, commented, “Surely designer robes soon will become the rage on Benches all across our great land as our ‘wise Irishwoman’ begins her ascent up the judicial ladder. Look out, Sonia Sotomayor!” We are so lucky to have you for a Judge Mary Pat!!! There are so many friends achieving wonderful things! I also want to send out huge kudos to the Joffrey Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway and Experiential Agency’s Amanda Puck for being chosen for Crain’s “40 Under 40” honors! Check out this web site for all of the honorees.
 
Speaking of fabulousness, designer Marcia Patmos - half of the design duo Lutz & Patmos - will be in town on November 19th for an exclusive trunk show co-hosted by Mary Jo Basler, Deirdre Huxhold and moi! Contact Deirdre at 312-375-4754 or at deirdrehux@hotmail.com for more info.

Under the heading of “Ridiculous or Sublime?” I offer up this piece of news: Recently, Hefner Twittered “Buy Crystal’s Boobies” Well naturally, being curious, I went to the web site posted and sure enough, she WAS selling her boobies! Hef’s girlfriend, Crystal Harris, teamed up with artist Randy Janson to raise money for the “Keep A Breast Foundation.” Their mission is to raise awareness among young teens and adults across the country about breast cancer prevention. The plaster cast of her upper torso is up for auction to raise funds. If you would like to bid on Crystal’s boobies, click here. I can’t believe I just wrote this….
 
That is it for this week’s Candid Candace! I hope you’ve enjoyed it and I will “talk” to you next week!
 
Love,

Candace :)

P.S. Don’t forget all of the great events surrounding Latino Fashion Week which runs through November 8th! Check it out here!

ANGELS AND BEARS AND BULLS, OH MY!

Chicago has had lots of great store opening parties, but I can’t remember one being as well publicized and exciting as Victoria’s Secret grand opening. First of all, the ads alone would make any guy have a car accident upon seeing them for the first time—the tag line is “What’s sexy now, Chicago?” and includes a very sultry model in, what else, a Victoria’s Secret black lace bra and panties. And besides the ads, there are Lucite display cases all up and down Michigan Avenue with all manner of Angel wings which were worn in past Victoria’s Secret fashion shows inside. People can step up onto a little platform for a photo of themselves “wearing” the wings. Then there are instructions below where you can e-mail the pic and compete to be an Angel….oh yeah, I’m sure they will find a lot of Angels from this promotion but it is a very clever idea and as I walked along the street earlier in the day, it seemed EVERYONE was climbing up onto the little platform and then sheepishly asking passer-bys to snap a pic for them. It was very cute and I wouldn’t be surprised if it wasn’t only women doing this either! In any case, I was very much looking forward to the party which was, obviously, publicized to perfection by JKLS PR (Jill Katz and Lara Shipp). You could see the store at 734 N. Michigan Ave. from a mile away since it was lit up like a Roman candle! The pink carpet out front was jam packed with banks of photographers, many of them famous in their own right like Kelli Zink, Steve Starr, Melissa and Henrique Kerch (Factio Magazine) and Sally and Kerry Shorr with Miranda Wirth (Luxe Life Chicago). Even I had a Hollywood moment when I was asked to walk the pink carpet! It was a real thrill! Inside the party was less crowded than I expected but it was so refreshing. Most event organizers think the more the merrier but I don’t agree....madhouses are never good! The party was by invitation only and the invites were non-transferable. I know PR people usually try to snag some high-profile sports stars for their parties and, in this case, I don’t think they had to do much arm-twisting. Happily mingling with fans were Bears star linebacker Lance Briggs, Chicago Bulls Taj Gibson (there with his brother Floyd) and Derrick Rose, White Sox second baseman Chris Getz and former Bear Jerry Azumah. When the stars of the evening – VS Angels Miranda Kerr, Doutzen Kroes and Marisa Miller – made their entrances, the room came alive. Upon seeing how gorgeous they all were in person, a friend said, “Well, that throws my air-brushing theory right out the window!” The store itself is gorgeous too! The front room is glamorous, dark and dramatic with shocking pink touches while the second floor houses the Pink Collection in a 5,000-square-foot space which caters to the younger VS set. This Chicago location, besides having the largest swimwear collection, is also the only store in Illinois to carry it year-round. They have VIP fit rooms as well as a Body Match Scanner that utilizes white light technology to capture body images for a perfect bra fit! The days of ill-fitting bras seem to be coming to an end! There is also ongoing open casting events in NY, Miami, LA and Chicago to find the next Runway Angel to join the supermodels as they walk in the famous Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to be broadcast Tuesday, December 1st (10:00 p.m. EST). Other lucky guests seen sipping Limelight Catering’s signature drink of the night – the Magnificent Mile Martini – were Jerry Kleiner, Marisa Molinaro, Steve Traxler, Lee Ellison, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Richard Roeper, The Bachlorette’s Jillian Harris and Ed Swiderski, Trevian Kutti, Rich Foreside, Tonya Adamson, Billy Dec, Dan Uslen, Diane McGrath, Cat and Joe D’Orio, Kimberly Murray, Chris Norman, Chad and Adam Kramer, Brooks Rogalski, Elizavetta Efimova, Bracken Zimmerman, Jennifer Lane, Lou Canellis, Jessica Girdwain, Alec and Jeanette Ross, Paul Lee, Schae Lewis, Aeron Lancero,  John Walcher, Jennifer Wirth, Sally and Kerry Shorr, Melissa and Henrique Kerch, Steve Starr and Kelli Zink. (Additional pics by Steve Starr and Luxe Life Chicago.) Click here to view more photos!
 
On this same evening, the street was alive with parties! Prior to the VS party, Tod’s at 121 E. Oak St. hosted an event introducing their new limited-edition book, Italian Touch, celebrating the Italian lifestyle. And, of course, their darling CEO, Marco Giacometti, was on hand to meet and greet the happy guests. Hosts for the evening included Laura and Matthew Anderson, Astra and Tom Gamsjaeger, Kerrie and Kevin Mudd, and Kate Templin and Ben Stahl. A portion of the evening’s proceeds benefitted the Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board and was also a kick-off for their 2009 Nutcracker Family dinner which will be held on December 12th. The store was aglow and full of smiling faces which included Harriet and Irwin Ross with their two handsome sons, Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, Christopher Conway, PR whiz Monique Jones (who planned this wonderful party), Margie Habermann, Ann Waters, Liz Sharp, Dorothy Bousseau, WB Prez Christine Ott, Rhonda Brown, Liz Adams, Margaret O’Connor, Lisa Malkin and crack staff members Julia Jankowski and Jen Hardin. View more photos here! 
 
Fashion Focus started off with a bang in Millenium Park Thursday night when Macy’s presented the Designers of Chicago. Close to 1000 supporters showed up in a cold, driving rainstorm to cheer on their favorites which included Lara Miller, Blake Standard, 5p1t, Tennille White, Lauren Lein, Lee Allison, The Tiebar, Jermikko, Anna Hovet, Furio, Nora Del Busto, Cynthia Ryba and Audrey. These designers were nominated by the Mayor’s Fashion Council and are considered to be some of the best in the city. Tennille White drew the biggest applause: She creates great designs but she is also one of the very few designers who cater to the larger female figure. She had all beautiful models but one in particular caught my eye—Latesha Lipscomb. Not only is she full figured but she’s proud of it and full of attitude. The audience went crazy for her and in an e-mail to me, here’s what she had to say. “I’m a big girl doing big things and I really want to draw more attention to the struggles full-figured models and designers have in the industry.” After recently witnessing the Ralph Lauren fiasco where they had Photoshopped a photo of model Filippa Hamilton down to such a small size it appeared she had no room for her organs, this is a refreshing antidote. Winners for “Macy’s Distinction in Design” award, announced prior to the show, included jewelry designer Aya of Haji Couture who was wearing stunning earrings created entirely of feathers. Fashion czarina Melissa Gamble and Macy’s Andrea Schwartz teamed up to create this extravaganza and even though backstage flooding wreaked havoc on some of the clothes, Andrea joked, “This wet-look may start a new trend!” They also had the best DJ I’ve ever heard...DJ CY (pronounced "sigh). More images here! (Editorial photography by Jack Perno.)
 
And speaking of fashion, Latino Fashion Week begins on Monday, November 2nd with the Hair and Make-up Wars competition at Green Dolphin Street (2200 N. Ashland Ave.) from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. There are lots of fun events scheduled for this week of activities culminating with the Chicago Designers Award Presentation on Sunday, November 8th at V-Live (2047 N. Milwaukee Ave.) with the VIP reception starting at 5 p.m., fashion show from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and the trade show is from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. We need to support ALL of the fabulous designers in our community and help put Chicago on the fashion map so I hope you can join me! For more info and to purchase tickets, please click here. 

As I mentioned to you last week, Bunky Cushing, hosted his wonderful “Handbags and Halos” luncheon at the Palmer House for 200 of his closest friends to benefit the Howard Brown Health Center. The exclusive, invite-only event raised more than $50,000 through its famous handbag raffle. Stanley Paul tickled the ivories and then David Easton – one of the world’s most sought-after interior designers – gave the keynote address. His eclectic design approach has transformed the residences of Carroll Petrie, Patricia Kluge and many leading industrialists. David shared a fascinating slide presentation about the evolution of design, from David Adler to his predictions for the pared down homes of tomorrow (since they aren’t traditional, I won’t be living in them). When I asked him what one would do with their beloved knickknacks, he said, “The only things you need to keep are your friends and books.” I sure can’t invite him over for tea since, as Chuck says, I have everything I’ve ever touched! Twelve lucky guests won handbags including MOI! I won a gorgeous Escada evening bag presented to me by the ever glamorous Ann Wallace. Other handbag donors included Ralph Lauren, Prada, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, 28 Shop at Macy’s and Brian Atwood among others. These bags will all go on sale at the Brown Elephant Resale Shop on November 14th. Besides Howard Brown, Bunky has supported the fundraising efforts of the Jane Addams Senior Caucus, English-Speaking Union, Chicago Historical Society and the American Friends of Versailles. Look for Bunky’s next popular Early Birds and Book Worms breakfast party at RL after David Easton’s new design book comes out November 2010. (Pics by Dan Rest.) Click here for more photos!
 
Step Up Women's Network is an organization that every woman should know about. It’s a national non-profit women’s network dedicated to strengthening community resources for women and girls with chapters in New York City, LA and Chicago. Through teen empowerment programs for underserved girls, women’s health education and advocacy, professional mentorship, and social networking opportunities, they educate their members to ensure that women and girls have the tools they need to create a better future. Their largest event of the year will be at the Hotel Sax (333 N. Dearborn) on Thursday, November 12th from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The goal is to attract new members to this worthy cause. There will be an inspiring keynote address, networking opportunities, drinks and hors d’oeuvres but more importantly, you will have the opportunity to help someone in need. Please join me….tickets are only $35 and maybe you can join and change a life. For more info and to buy tickets, please click here and check out their web site at SUWN.org.
 
Just when you think the world is moving too fast and you start to long for simpler times, the Old Town Triangle hosts its annual Fall Hoe Down party and Chili Cook-Off. It was a true “family affair” organized by the “Mayor” of Old Town, Shirley Baugher, and Michael Warnick. Everyone contributed something—a plate full of homemade cupcakes, various types of cole slaw, cornbread, pumpkin cookies AND the star of the night—CHILI! There were 16 different types of chili, to be exact, all vying for the top title. Judging was led by Perennial’s Chef Ryan Poli and it was a “hotly” contested race to be sure but in the end two winners emerged victorious. Lucy Baldwin won in the “Best New & Different” category (recipe follows) and Lucy Wojis won for her “Best Traditional & Classic” recipe. There was Bluegrass music by the Whiskey Hollow Band, a moonwalk and balloon artists for the kids and lots of mixing and mingling. Partygoers included Alice and Judge John Huff, Monika Betts, Norman Baugher, Dan Baldwin, Alderman Vi Daley, Shannon and John Waterfied with Berit and Scotty, Deborah and Ed Howlett, Rob Katz, Carolyn Armenita David, Karen Stephenson, Sharon O’Brien, Chris Lon, Mary Martel, Tom and Tessa Bracken and Linda Short. Click here for more photos but simply scroll down for Lucy Baldwin's winning recipe: 

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare chili whatever way is your family’s favorite.
3. Place chili mixture in a Pyrex dish and top with Trader Joe’s Cornbread Mix (prepare as directed).
4. Bake for 40 minutes and top with shredded Chihuahua cheese when finished.
 
And last but certainly not least, I want to congratulate friends Greg Hyder, Tom Kehoe and Emmanuel Nony on their upcoming profiles in Chicago magazine. We all know they are the “ones to watch!” As a matter of fact, just today, Tom Kehoe was tapped by the White House to do the Obamas’ Halloween celebration with 2,000 children. Tim Burton will be supplying some props to make the party perfect!! Congrats guys…you ALL deserve it!
 
I love the wonders of the seasons changing and I especially love seeing the little kids dressed up for Halloween! Please be kind and welcome your neighborhood children to your homes for this very special and memorable time in their lives and have a great week! :)
 
Love,
Candace :)

P.S. Don’t forget tonight’s preview party at the Joffrey Tower at 10 E. Randolph from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission is just $20, well worth it for the first ever look into the Joffrey Costume Vault featuring more than 200 one-of-a-kind Joffrey costumes plus vintage clothing and accessories for sale from some of the city’s top fashionistas! The event continues on Wednesday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Co-chairs for this unique event are Corinne Melchior, Gretchen Klotz and Nico Rodriguez.

IS 70 THE NEW 50?

It was a very cold evening and I wondered whether I really wanted to go out or stay home and cozy up to the fireplace. Well, you can guess what I decided. I never like to miss an event that Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions plans and this night was no exception. The occasion was a launch party at Martini Park for Virginia Madsen and her Emmy-Award winning mother, Elaine Madsen, for their documentary entitled “I Know a Woman Like That.” Virginia produced and Elaine directed this story featuring live interviews with extraordinary women ages 64 through 94. These women are fully engaged in their lives in the arts, athletics, social justice, environmentalism and high finance. Their unconventional choices, attitudes and discoveries about the opportunities they find at this time in their lives will motivate and inspire people of all ages. Chaz Ebert spoke eloquently on Roger’s behalf describing the film and no words could ever match his, so in his own words, I am proud to share this with you: “Its description may sound innocuous, but Elaine Madsen’s documentary is transformative in the way it regards life from the perspective of age. She talks intimately with 16 women in their 70’s or above, who didn’t put life on pause but kept right on living. Barbara Hillary skied to the North Pole, and says women her age are expected to feel ‘mindless, useless and sexless.’ Lauren Hutton smiles, ‘I’m better in bed.’ Elaine Kaufman presides nightly over the most famous saloon in New York. Lorraine Morton was elected mayor of Evanston at 74, and is still mayor 14 years later. After a famous career in prose, Maxine Hong Kingston has returned to poetry, her childhood love. Gloria Steinem thinks maybe at 70 you find out who you really were at 14. Madsen doesn’t ask celeb-trash questions, but is an adult talking to adults—even when she and Suzanne Adams (her daughter Virginia’s drama teacher) are lying on a rug on their tummies, talking face to face like two seven-year-old girls. Extraordinary.” Some of the guests for this exciting evening included Roger Ebert, Amanda Puck, Susanna Negovan, LeeAnn Trotter, Sherren Leigh, Janet Davies, Lisa Skolnik, Terry Savage, Richard Roeper, Suzanne LeMignot, Ruth Ratny, Larry Wert, Bill Zwecker, Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero, Marisa Molinaro, Marlene Glitzen (better known as Marlene Siskel), Bruno Cohen (the new head of CBS), Lisa Aprati, Jane Davies, Kevin and Lim Kline, WTTW’s Elizabeth Brackett, Alice and John Sabl, Lyn McKeaney, Stanley Paul and Terry Savage among others. For more photos, click here!
 
We attended the Carl Sandburg Literary Awards dinner at the Public Library as guests of darling Leslie Hindman. She had a wonderfully “bookish” table that included Thomas Joyce (the famous book appraiser, rare bookseller and former star of HGTV’s “The Appraisal Fair”) as well as Mary Williams (the head of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Rare Book Dept.), Matt Kohnke, Ann Marie Lipinski, Steve Kaplan and Nancy O’Shea. Since Chuck and I are book collectors, this evening was a special treat for us. Francie Comer and Miles White were the co-chairs and this year’s recipient of the prestigious Carl Sandburg Literary Award went to Salman Rushdie. The 21st Century Award went to author Patrick Somerville. Both gave witty, charming and informative speeches and then Mayor Daley spoke, stressing the importance of libraries in our neighborhoods not only for knowledge but also to provide a safe haven for children after school. Leslie is a strong supporter of this wonderful cause and was proud to point out that we (Chicago) have the best library system in the country and many people come to our city to study it. Clever table designs by Heffernan Morgan included books by both authors surrounded by candlelight and flowers. Guests were encouraged to take the books and have them autographed after the dinner. Other supporters at the event included Governor and Jayne Thompson, Mary Lou Gorno, Cindy Pritzker, Ralph Hughes and Bill Zwecker among others. Click here to learn more! 

Bunky Cushing always has the best guests for his Handbags and Halos luncheon every year benefitting the Howard Brown Health Center but this year he outdid himself! Maybe it’s because I love the world of interior design but I think when it’s coupled with the world famous designer David Easton, it makes it doubly interesting for me (and I am pretty sure everyone who attended would agree)! I met David the night before at the fabulous and oh-so-elegant Patron’s Tea hosted by long-time friend of Bunky’s, Stanley Paul. His penthouse has been featured in so many magazines that I’ve lost count but every time I’ve been there, I felt like I’ve taken a trip to Paris—Art Deco Paristhat is….everything about his home is sheer elegance but it’s also so very warm and cozy. Patricia Zadony did the catering (call 773-495- 8463 for more info) and offerings included chicken curry tea sandwiches, goat cheese and watercress tea sandwiches, apple-Boursin cheese fingers and smoked salmon with capers and dill on black bread. Delicious!!! Bunky came up with the idea for this Patron’s Tea for his third luncheon featuring Lynn Wyatt as the keynote speaker because he felt, and rightfully so, that some of the ladies would love a chance to meet her on a one-on-one basis. For this Patron’s Tea, about 35 supporters attended including Cynthia Olson, Linda Heister, Zarada Gowenlock, Sherren Leigh, Cheryl Bollinger (with her darling granddaughter), Gerri Shute, Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, Karen Goodyear, John Ansehl, Robin Berger, Cookie Cohen, Mamie Walton, Mary Ann Rose, Peg Lombardo, Lynn McMahan, Carlette McMullen, Gia McDermott, HBHC President and CEO Michael Cook, Paul Fairchild and Alan Brainerd among others. Stay tuned for pics from the luncheon coming next week. :) Great job again, as always Bunky!!! Check out more photos here!

The standing ovations never seemed to end on opening night of The Joffrey Ballet's "Othello" Wednesday evening. The company danced their hearts for a sell out crowd and the excitement was over the top. The scenery, costumes and music all came together for a perfect performance and the reviews were outstanding! This is Chicago-born choreographer Lar Lubovitch's Midwest premier of Shakespeare's classic tale portrayed with an amazing mix of classical and modern movement. The set design by George Tsypin is sheer genius with glass mixed with moving images and even dream sequences projected onto the wall. Fabrice Calmels performed as Othello, April Daley as Desdemona, Matthew Adamczyk as Iago, Aaron Rogers as Cassio, Allison Walsh as Bianco and Emila was portrayed by Valerie Robin. There are only six more performances through October 25th. This 2009-2010 season of Legends will continue on December 11th through 27th with "The Nutcracker" and "Cinderella" will begin on February 17th and run through the 28th. Congratulations to the Joffrey Ballet: Every step they take makes us breathless with anticipation for the next performance!

Speaking of performances, have YOU ever dreamed of being on stage? Now is your chance at the Victory Garden’s Theater Annual Casting Auction Benefit and Performance on Saturday, November 14th. Now in its 28th year, the Casting Auction is Victory Garden’s unique fundraising event in which all the roles (chorus, cameo, supporting and children’s) of a professionally-directed and produced classic American musical are sold at auction! You don’t need to be a professional actor but you should have the appetite to perform and the desire to be onstage in the spotlight. The winners of the roles will have the opportunity to play their parts in performances directed by Artistic Director Dennis Zacek, to be scheduled for a weekend in February 2010 before an audience of more than 400 each night. The event at the Victory Gardens Theater (located at 2433 N. Lincoln Ave.) on Saturday, November 14th, will include a performance of “Anything Goes,” with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. So polish off those paddles and get ready for your close-up! Casting auction co-chairs are Stuart Burstein, Nancy Studenroth and Fred Zar. For more info, please call 773-549-5788 or click here.
 
On Friday, October 23rd, the Palm Court at the Drake Hotel will be hosting a unique fundraiser to benefit the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation during this month of breast cancer awareness. Shaun Rajah has planned an event called “50 & Beautiful—Catwalk Fridays Special” which will celebrate influential women ages 50 and above with an afternoon tea and a fashion show showcasing collections from six of Chicago’s most exclusive designers: Mira Couture; Quinton De Alexander; Elizabeth M Fashion; Sylwia W; milliner Joy Scott; and jewelry designer Sophia Forero. Featured models are Cookie Cohen, Juell Kadet, Lynn McMahan, Dorothy Whealan, Susan Fierro, Joan Sosano, Salome St. Clair, Michelle Yeadon, Marlene Laport, Sheryl Dyer and moi! There will be two shows – the first from 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. and the second from 3:15 p.m. to 4 p.m. – that will include three-tiered tea service. Tickets are $29 and reservations can be made by calling Shaun Rajah at 312-932-4619 or by e-mail at shaun.rajah@hilton.com. Thanks for all of your hard work Shaun! All of your events are such fun! :) For more photos, click here!
 
And last but not least, please join me at the annual “Taste of TCW” on Wednesday, October 28th at The Chopping Block. All monies raised benefits the TCW Foundation which supports organizations helping women and children with operating budgets under $500K. The event, emceed by Steve Dolinsky (a.k.a. The Hungry Hound), is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will feature a contest between Chefs Radhika Desai, Jennifer Gavin and Elaina Vasquez as well as hors ‘d’oeuvres created from the chef’s favorite recipes, signature cocktails by Sunda mixologist Sherrie Geslak and a high-end raffle. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased by calling 312-951-7600, ext. 171 or by visiting tcwmag.com. I hope to see you there! For more photos, click here!

Some personal congrats are in order for my friends Lydia Fisher and Gregg Zgonena! Lydia’s first book, Cinderella of Wall Street, is out now!! After two decades with a century-old Wall Street investment bank, she writes of the far-reaching consequences after its sudden takeover in the spring of 2008 in a totally unique way. A very timely book for these tumultuous times. As for my dear friend Gregg, he has left Ultimo to take on a new and exciting challenge as the sales manager of the Michael Kors Boutique due to open later this month at 900 N. Michigan Ave. A huge congrats to these two go-getters – I am so happy and proud for you both!!!
 
I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s edition of Candid Candace. This link will make you vividly recall your difficulties as a child learning to ride a bike….I am now ashamed of my need for training wheels…

Love,

Candace :)

Candace@candidcandace.com 

WORLD FASHION CHICAGO IS WORLD CLASS!

Chicago’s recent World Fashion Show was world class thanks to the efforts of ZZAZZ Production’s Tracey Tarantino and the incredible support from our fashion community. More than 35 designers inspired by Chicago’s 28 sister cities were featured alongside international designers from Milan, Italy; Shanghai, China; Durban, South Africa; Petach Tikva, Israel and Vilnius, Lithuania. This year’s show featured local talent such as Melissa Serpico, Vika Brown, Anna Fong, Yana German, Mira Couture, Paul Sisti, Sylwia, Kate Jacobson, Bobbie Chi and John Shultz as well as three designers from Israel, Lithuania and China who had travelled to Chicago especially for this event. These global fashions represented the wonderful cultural diversity that our great city has to offer and were presented on the Harris Theater Rooftop Terrace. At the beginning of the show there was a “Hello Sister” video narrated by Oprah Winfrey which was originally created for the IOC visit (we all know the sad results of this). It was a very exciting event and as you approached the Rooftop, dramatic lighting pointed the way to the tent enclosed venue. There were photographers everywhere and video cameras were recording all of the moments. The designers were being interviewed in front of the step-and-repeat and ticket holders were air kissing their friends and taking photos—the atmosphere was abuzz with activity and reminded me of the excitement of NY Fashion Week. Guests were all chicly dressed and even though there was a chill in the air, everyone was very warm in spirit. The Chicago Sister Cities International Program, under the auspices of the City of Chicago, provides leadership to develop, manage, and coordinate programs and projects with Chicago’s sister cities. Besides the cities already mentioned, our sister cities include Accra, Ghana; Amman, Jordan; Athens, Greece; Belgrade, Serbia; Birmingham, England; Bogota, Columbia; Busan, Republic of Korea; Casablanca, Morocco; Delhi, India; Durban, South Africa; Galway, Ireland; Gothenburg, Sweden; Hamburg, Germany; Kyiv, Ukraine; Lahore, Pakistan; Lucerne, Switzerland; Mexico City, Mexico; Milan, Italy; Moscow, Russia; Osaka, Japan; Paris, France; Prague, Czech Republic; Shenyang, China; Toronto, Canada and Warsaw, Poland. Who KNEW?! Wow, we have a lot of friends here, don’t we? Sponsors for this event included RL Restaurant, Richard Driehaus Charitable Trust, Park Hyatt Chicago, TCW, Chicago magazine and Factio magazine and Charles Ifergan among others. (Charles and his terrific styling team created the gorgeous runway looks and a lot of people don’t realize the many charitable events he donates his time and efforts toward. Thanks for all you do Charles! It doesn’t go unnoticed). Other fashionistas seen at this stylish event  included Melissa Gamble (Director of Fashion Arts & Events at Dept. of Cultural Affairs) and her hubby, Richard Gamble (new publisher of Chicago magazine), Hazel Barr, Greg Hyder, Amy Wimer, Vonita Reescer, Peggy Martay, Laurie Davis, Darby Hill, Bree Lara, Sheryl Dyer, Melissa and Heinrich Kerch, Charles Ifergan (who’s styling team did the hair for the event), Jean Antoniou, Barbara Glass, Rich Varnes, John Colletti, Telemundo’s Tsi-tsi-ki Felix and Andrew Hayes, Jennifer Lane and Ann Estsas among many others. For more info, check out worldfashionchicago.com and chicagosistercities.com. (Additional pics by Steve Starr; click here to view the gallery.)
 
Chilli Pepper’s birthday party is always a much coveted invite and this year was no exception. Todd Hatoff of Allen Brothers and chefs Mario Santiago and Guadalupe Aguilar co-hosted her party at May St. Café (located at 1146 W. Cermak) and over 60 friends came to celebrate with her. The first thing you noticed upon entering the restaurant was the massive floral display with little chili peppers from her friend Oprah. Chilli (spelled with TWO L’s) knows everyone and it seems everyone knows her too. She was the gracious hostess greeting everyone at the door and taking photos with her ever-present camera. (And she never fails to send you the photos either!) Chef Mario showed us around the restaurant and it was lovely with an outdoor patio and a massive grill which is used in the summer for parties and chef demonstrations. The sit-down dinner had a marvelous menu (Chilli is a well known foodie and has been to Tru Restaurant over 100 times!) which included quesadillas, French double cream brie and pear, chorizo with Chihuahua cheese, escargot with strawberry garlic butter in phyllo, carne quisado (beef stew), Allen Brothers beef tenderloin tips made with garden fresh herbs (Mario and Guadalupe have an organic garden off of the parking lot), slow roasted pork marinated in mojo criollo. For dessert, there was Chef Art Smith’s famous hummingbird cake and the May Street Café’s white chocolate flan (which will be featured on the food network show “The Best Thing I Ever Ate”). Alpana Singh chose all of the dinner’s wine selections and they were perfect, of course!  She also created a “Chilli Pepper Punch” which she said was, “sweet but deadly!” The restaurant is decorated with beautiful paintings by Art’s partner, Jesus Salguiero. Lucky guests included artists Alexander Espinosa and Bob Clark, JoAnn Buccini, Charles Blackstone, Charlene Acciari, Maya Douglas, Rafael Reudas, Nadine and Ira Epstein, Rosa and Lou Ebling, Shell Reyes, Dan Bacon, Jennifer Fox, Brent Ochs and Tim O’Hare, Matt Nudelman, Brian Butterfield,  Prosecco’s Jason Clark and Katherine Alvera, Jon Cochran, Paul Escriva, JoAnne F. Fehn (who is a candidate for Cook County judge) and Barney Moles among others.  The after-party was hosted by Robert and Luis Miguel. I wish you a happy birthday YEAR, Chilli! :) Click here for more photos from this fantastic fete.
 
Brenda Sexton has been one busy lady! Recently, she organized a star-studded reunion of Chicago’s entertainment icons in L.A. with the help of Rich Melman, Tom Dreesen and friends. Together, they revived a 15-year-old tradition of bringing together Chicago’s A-list in entertainment for a night of Chicago food, fun and camaraderie. This time it was in Santa Monica at Melman’s newly opened restaurant, La Grande Orange, which is owned by Rich’s sons RJ and Jerrod and fellow Chicagoan Bob Lynn. In addition to serving LGO favorites, the restaurant icons served classic Chicago staples including Lou Malnati’s pizza, Italian beef sandwiches from Portillo’s, Fluky’s Chicago hot dogs and Eli’s cheesecake all flown in for the event. In addition to Chris O’Donnell, Virginia Madsen, Jeff Garlin, Joe Mantegna, Peter Jacobson, Nia Vardalos, Hayes MacArthur and Harold Ramis, 350 loyal Chicagoans gathered for this Chicago Link/LA City Link Reunion Party. They included Peggy and Steve Lombardo, Lynn McMahan, Les Coney, Lyn and Lauren McKeaney, Sean Conroy, Chaz Ebert, Lou Weisbach, Julee White, Mary Beth and Kevin Malone, Ken Cook, Christine Ryndak, Debbie Marchese and her daughter Regina among others. Bill Zwecker and columnist/film critic Richard Roeper were on hand to host the red carpet while Tom Dreesen emceed the event. The event was televised and will air in both Chicago and LA on October 31st and November 1st as a 30-minute TV special and includes interviews with Harold Ramis, Jeff Garlin, Peter Jacobson, Bonnie Hunt, Joe Mantegna, Virginia Madsen, Andrew Alexander of Second City, Martha Lavey of Steppenwolf and others. The film premiere will be at the Elysian Hotel on October 27th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Event hosts include Larry Wert, LeeAnn Trotter, Bob Sirott and Marianne Marciano, Christopher Clinton Conway, Helen Melchior, Liz Crokin, Steve Traxler, Richard Roeper, Chaz Ebert, Ruth Ratny and moi among others. Tickets are $100 and space is limited. For more info, contact Brenda Sexton at brenda@chicagolinkproductions.com. (Fab Fotos by Mitch Canoff.)
 
Beautiful author/socialite Amanda Brooks has been photographed for every major magazine. Her sense of style sets her apart from the crowd and now she has written a book, I Love Your Style, documenting how she has been inspired by style icons of yesterday and tomorrow. Using hundreds of candid photos, she demonstrates every possible fashion trend and tells you how to find your own inner fashion icon. She says, “There is hope for everybody. People who have style come from the most unlikely places. Money is more of an encumbrance to style than it is an asset.” I’m not so sure about this last part but I think what she is saying is that lack of funds make you rely more on your own creativity which is actually what true style is all about. The book signing party was held at Chanel and hosted by our own city’s fashionable young things: Kimberly Burt, Caroline Beak-Crown, Meredith Wood-Prince and Alexis Ross. Amanda is a natural and casual beauty and obviously practices what she preaches! Check out this link to see her video and for more info.
 
The Joffrey Ballet will open their new season of Legends on Wednesday, October 14th with the Midwest premiere of “Othello.” This is Chicago-born choreographer Lar Lubovitch’s full length story/ballet in three acts with a stunning score by Academy Award winner Elliot Goldenthal. The entire 42-strong company of Joffrey dancers will participate in this production and it is recommended that you try to see both casts since each showcase different aspects of the company. In one production, 6’ 6” Fabrice Calmels will be paired with April Daley. New dancer, Cuban-born Miguel Blanco, and Victoria Jaiani, will be featured in the other cast. Choreographer Lubovitch has received many awards including a Tony Award nomination for “Into the Woods” as well as an Astaire Award for his highly praised dance sequences for the Broadway show, “The Red Shoes.” He danced in numerous modern, ballet, jazz and ethnic companies before forming the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company in 1968. Since there will be only nine performances, I recommend you get your tickets ASAP! This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity! I will be seeing both companies and I hope to see you there! For a sneak preview video peak and ticket info, click here.
 
Well, that’s it for this week…I hope you’ve enjoyed Candid Candace! I would like to thank Flashpoint Academy’s Howard Tullman for the video of my interview with Pamella Roland and her family at the recent Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails. Check it out here. I would also like to thank CS Magazine for including me this month in Amalie Drury’s article, “Reality Mights,” for the real dish on “Windy City Wives.” Check out the article here. I hope you all have a great week and we will “talk” again soon!
 
Love,
Candace :)
 
(As always, if you would like to contact me, please e-mail me at candace@candidcandace.com. If you or someone you know would like to be added to the blog alert list, just send me your address and I will send you a weekly e-mail when Candid Candace comes out. :) Thanks so much!)

30TH MISS CONTINENTAL PAGEANT WOWS PARK WEST CROWD!

The Miss Continental Pageant finals are always held on Labor Day night. This year’s show, owner Jim Flint’s 30th, was the best one we’ve attended so far at Park West. Everyone was dressed to the nines and all fans had placards and noisemakers ready to cheer their favorites on. It really is the best show around. For $75, you get at least 10 production numbers that are like mini-Broadway shows with the elaborate costuming and choreography. The Continental Pageantry system was started in 1980 to provide an avenue for professional female impersonators to compete for a national title. The opening number was a wonderful medley of the top Broadway hits from Cats, The Wiz, 9 to 5, La Cage aux Folles and many, many more. The closing number of this segment was performed by the legendary, Chili Pepper (who was also the very first winner of the Miss Continental title in 1980), “singing” a song from Sunset Boulevard as Norma Desmond. Clad all in white and acting her little heart out, she was clearly the crowd favorite! There were 30 contestants from all over the country who started out in the semi-finals at the Baton Show Lounge on Sunday night. By the finals on Monday, there were 13 and then the final five who each performed amazing talent segments and appeared in swimsuits and evening gowns for the judging. My friend, Nadine Epstein, has been a judge for 25 years and I know how hard it must’ve been to choose a winner since they were all terrific! Other judges included Jim DeMundo, Skip Mackall, Brian Reams, Howard Meyer, Tommie Ross (a former Continental winner), Antonio Edwards, Denis Sabol, Robert Hamm and Fred Asbell. During the opening greeting, Jim Flint mentioned that they had received a long-distance call from a soldier serving in Afghanistan for tickets – she was home on leave – and he introduced her from the stage to a standing ovation. Erica Dunlap, Miss America 2004, was there enjoying the show as well as 16 former Miss Continental Pageant winners. Approximately 1100 excited fans and friends watched as Armani (Miss Continental Florida) was named the winner (she performed a mean Michael Jackson number for her talent segment). First runner-up was Mokha Montrese (Miss Canada Continental) who performed Swan Lake, and second runner-up was Naysha Lopez (Miss Virginia Icon Continental) who performed a space-age production number. The other two finalists were Aurora Sexton from Chicago and Kim Moore from Puerto Rico. We’ve been to lots of Continental Pageants and were so thrilled to see how far the show has come. We thoroughly enjoyed it and want to congratulate Jim Flint on his dedication to the community and for creating this exciting and unique show! See you all NEXT Labor Day! Photos from top right: finalist Aurora Sexton, winner Armani, first runner-up Mokha Montrese, second runner-up Naysha Lopez and finalist Kim Moore; Sunny Dee-Lite's production number; winner Armani as Michael Jackson; Sunny Dee-Lite's evening gown; with event founder Jim Flint; Cezanne, Mimi Marks and Monica Monroe; John Regas and Chili Pepper; Chuck, Chanel and David Brandt; retiring Miss Continental, Tulsi; Cats production number; judges Nadine Epstein, Skip Mackall and Tommie Ross; Chili Pepper as Norma Desmond; Tim Gideon and former Miss America Erica Dunlap; happy partygoers. For more photos from this event, click here!  
 
The Costume Council of the Chicago Historical Society hosted a reception at Neiman Marcus Thursday night to announce the FashioNext designers who will be competing to create a garment inspired by select pieces from its Costume Collection. This year’s focus will be inspired by an upcoming exhibition on weddings entitled “I Do! Chicago Ties the Knot!” opening May 22, 2010. The designers will each create a wedding gown constructed solely with fabric provided by Brentano, a Chicago-based interior design textile company. The 2009-2010 design contestants are James de Colon, Caroline Devillo, Elda De La Rosa, Anna Fong, Sam Kori George, Holly Greenhagen of Dame Couture, Jane and Saeed Hamidi, Kenneth Park and Carla Hwang and Katrin Schnabl. Several gowns were on display and although they were all gorgeous, a standout was James de Colon’s. It was haute couture and priced at $5,000. (A girl can dream……) Neiman’s chic GM, Wendy Krimins, welcomed the crowd and introduced Costume Council President Noren Ungaretti, who explained the contest and the purpose and encouraged everyone to come to the pre- party before the May opening. Then Timothy Long, the museum curator, spoke…..it was a lovely event with lots of familiar faces in the crowd including upcoming party co-chairs Laura Barnett Sawchyn and Heather Farley (with her handsome fiancé, Bruce Ingram), Tony Rossi, Toni Canada, Robin Berger, Connie, Katherine and Caitlin Saville, John Clese. Omar Miller, Joel Mangers, Alex Aubrey, Patti Kent, Peggy Snorpf, Andrea Reynders, last year’s winners, Roger Price and Tommy Walton (who are this year’s judges), Dan DiCeasar and many more. (BTW, the exhibition preview party will be on Friday, May 21st, so mark your calendars now! For more info and to follow the competition, please go to the Chicago History Museum's web site. Photos from top right: Joel Mangers, Omar Miller. Dan DiCeasar and Alex Aubry; Laura Barnett Sawchyn, Patti Kent, Susanna Johnson and Tony Rossi; designer James de Colon with his models; gorgeous James de Colon design; John Clese, Heather Farley and Bruce Ingram; Cliff Duske and Michael Spellmeyer; Roger Price, Andrea Reynders and Tommy Walton; Marcus Riley and Jessica Zweig; Wendy Krimins with Timothy Long and Noren Ungaretti; Katherine Saville, Peggy Snorpf and Connie Saville.  
 
The Chicago Gourmet event is right around the corner and I hope I’ll see you there! This is a must-attend since its purpose is to promote Chicago internationally as a world-class city and also the fabulous chefs who we are so lucky to have by the dozens! It takes place Saturday (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) September 26th and 27th in Millenium Park and is a celebration of the city’s finest in food and wine. Multiple chefs and restaurants will offer tastings of a variety of cuisines each day including on-stage demonstrations. Celebrity appearances include Ted Allen (of Top Chef and Chopped), Rick Bayless (Top Chef Masters winner and star of PBS’ “Mexico-One Plate at a Time”), Rahman “Rock” Harper (winner of Season 3 of Hell’s Kitchen). Stephanie Izard (winner of Season 4 Top Chef), Marcus Samuelsson (of Inner Chef, Urban Cuisine and Iron Chef America), Fabio Viviani (of Top Chef) and Art Smith (who we all know will be cooking for the Dalai Lama soon!). There will also be the ultimate wine experience with Grand Cru Tastings which will offer attendees tastings of the finest wines in the world as selected by their Master Sommeliers. (The Grand Cru is a separate ticketed event at $175 per person and requires a general admission ticket. Attendance is limited to 200 per day). General admission tickets are $150 per day (a two-day pass is also available for $250). This event was founded by my friend Sheila O’Grady from the Illinois Restaurant Association and I am so proud and happy for her and all of her IRA friends! I hope everyone will support this wonderful event for Chicago! For more info and tickets, please go to www.chicagogourmet.org. Photos from top right: Chicago Gourmet; last year's Chicago Gourmet; Chef Bartolotta and Chef Bayless; chef tasting at Chicago Gourmet; Mayor Daley with Chef Bayless; Top Chef Stephanie Izard serving the crowd; Chef Art Smith; Chef Marcus Samuelsson.  
 
The Gold Coast Neighbors (in its 52nd year) recently hosted its signature event, “Evening on Astor.” We were very lucky to be guests of Toni Canada, Heather Jane Johnston, Michelle Herman and Kimberly Gleeson who had one of the cutest tables there. The theme was orange right down to the colorful hors d’oeuvres and guests were instructed to wear “orange attire if you desire.” Needless to say, it made the task of finding their table pretty easy! Right next to the “Orange Table” was the Leslie Hindman table—staffed by her crack team with crystal stemware, lilies and sterling silver. The street from Schiller to Goethe was chock-a-block with familiar faces. Seen in the crowd were Katherine Chez and Judd Malkin, Shari and Jerry Michaels, Lynda and Howard Silverman, Mike Wilkie, Lori and Don Shroud, Justin Dedeaux, Gabrielle and Don Weisberg, Brian White, Dr. Steve Stryker, Richard Doermer, Lyndsay Canada, Elaine Yusa, Wesley Donohoe and Abigail Rutherford, Michelle Klarchek, Anda and Marc Elardo, John Vaile, Lauri Krakora, Lily Liu and Jimmy Florek among many others. This event for GCN not only brings neighbors and friends together but is also a major source of funds for the upcoming year’s activities and educational efforts. Photos from top right: with Kimberly Gleeson, Toni Canada and Heather Jane Johnston; Leslie Hindman; Katherine Chez and Judd Malkin; Heather Johnston and Richard Doermer; the "Orange Table" with flowers by Jonathan Ryan; Anda Smith-Elardo with Kimberly and Marc Elardo. For more photos from this event, click here! 

A VERY chic dinner party was hosted recently by Lydia Fisher Alouf to celebrate her Aquarian friends. It was called an “Aquarian Intermezzo” and her guests included Christina Ghilberti, Dana Capone, Laura Rosenkranz, Jeannette Cooper, Judy Kaplan, actress/producer/model Alex Meneses, Kelly Brown, Suzanne LeMignot and Diane Whiteley. Lydia is an expert cook and all of her dinner parties always include an array of unbelievable home-cooked dishes. I was so sorry to miss this party (even though I’m a Gemini I was still invited). Lydia’s culinary rainbow included sesame encrusted salmon with sweet and sour glaze, pine nut/red pepper/ginger orzo, Lithuanian beet salad, Lithuanian Napoleonas tortes and much, much more. I know everyone had a great time and we are all looking forward to Lydia’s upcoming book! (Love from Ausra—Lydia’s Lithuanian name for me.) Photos from top right: having fun with Lydia; can you say YUM?; hostess Lydia Fisher Alouf, Christina Ghilberti and Dana Capone; hostess Lydia Fisher Alouf. 
 
There was a wonderful party at Bebe on Oak Street this week called a “Salute to Rising Stars”…my friend, Lynne Bredfeldt, is a nominee and I have my fingers crossed that this much-deserved title will be going to her! The party was fun with lots of chic peeps and wonderful food by The Entertaining Company! Seen on the scene were Kevin Sullivan, Melissa Song, Lisa Ackerman, models Cecily Rodriguez, Elena Greenwell, Lina Pakrosnyte and Harold Zimmerman from Votre Vu. Good luck, Lynne! Photos from top right: Melissa Song, Kevin Sullivan and Lisa Ackerman; Lynne Bredfeldt; Cecily Rodriguez, Elena Greenwell and Lina Pakrosnyte.
 
My friend Harriet Ross had great news to report for the recent Dance for Life benefit! They raised over $300,000 with $175,000 going towards all of their good works! Kudos to Dance for Life!! Photo: Harriet Ross.
 
It’s not long now before THE JOFFREY BALLET’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS event on Friday, Sept, 25th at the Palmer House! We will have lots of surprises and celebrity guests PLUS an incredible Pamella Roland runway show! This is an awful lot of fun for just $250! Even if you have plans earlier in the evening, you can still come to the awesome after-party from 9 p.m. to midnight to dance with the dancers, listen to the world-class DJ, Donna D’Cruz, and see the fashion show projected on a super-size screen in the State Ballroom’s chic lounge area. Hope to see you all there! For tickets, please call Julia Jankowski at 312-386-8921. :) Photos from top right: a scene from last year's Couture & Cocktails; Pamella Roland with her daughter Sydney and Joffrey Director of Development Christopher Conway; having fun at last year's Couture & Cocktails. 

Hope you’re enjoying our wonderful weather now that summer has finally arrived! We will be going to New York this week for Fashion Week and to preview the Pamella Roland show firsthand. (Her runway show at Couture & Cocktails will be the first look-see outside of her Bryant Park show!) I will be bringing back lots of fun photos for the next Candid Candace so stay tuned! In the meantime, enjoy this little video that shows true friends come in unusual shapes, sizes and species! Please e-mail me with your comments at Candace@CandidCandace.com.
 
Love,
Candace :)

P.S. Thanks to Sun-Times reporter Celeste Busk for this wonderful article on our book collection! (Just click the image at right to read the article in its entirety.)

SUMMER POOL PARTY MAKES A BIG SPLASH FOR JOFFREY FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

There is nothing quite like summer in our great city! And one of the joys is the traditional backyard BBQ! But the "backyard" party at the home of Sandy and Roger Deromedi was anything but traditional! They hosted close to 100 Joffrey friends, family and dancers at one of the best bashes of the summer! Their estate in Lake Forest is as close to heaven as you can get--from the koi pond to the hot tub grotto, it is all built on a very grand and gracious scale. And even though it's sizable, Sandy and Roger made everyone feel right at home. The dancers were tossing each other in the pool and the food from George Jewell was divine. There was a wide selection with numerous food stations that included BBQ, scallop fajitas, caprese salad, grilled vegetables with goat cheese, pork and beans, fresh creamed corn, cole slaw, mini burgers and much, much more. The desserts were decadent with custom hot fudge sundaes and a beautiful birthday cake. Sandy and Roger didn't miss a beat and had a surprise birthday cake for Joffrey artistic director Ashley Wheater's upcoming 50th birthday. Ashley introduced all of the dancers including some of our new artists (we have eight new dancers in all for the next season!) and 10-year veterans Valerie Robin and Mauro Villanueva. Dancer Abigail Simon led the crowd in singing birthday wishes and then the dancing continued to the sounds of Garrido Productions.Happy guests included Maureen and EB Smith, Helen Melchior, photographer Herbert Migdahl, Christine Ott, Sophie Bross, Liz and Lawrence Ryan, Bryan Johnson, Marci and Ron Holzer, Julie Johnson, Marybeth Brandabur, Marina and Arnie Tatar, Joyce Wippman, Debbie Beitler and her sister Nancy Bauer, Kathy Lidbury, Patti Gerber, Barbara and David Kipper, Kathleen Klaeser, Pierre Lockett, Christopher Clinton Conway, Harriet and Irwin Ross, Liz Sharp, Pam and Russ Strobel, Heidi and David Keeling, Mary Kay and John Burke, Dora Aalbregtse, Laurie Garwood, Nancy and Stephen Bauer and her sister Debbie, Cynthia and John Pacholick, Michael Anderson,  Kate Benson and Dick Johnson among many others. Happy Birthday Ashley and many thanks Sandy and Roger!!! What a GREAT party! :) Photos from top right: Ashley Wheater being feted; Fabrice Calmels, Tian Shuai, Abigail Simon, Seth Hopkins, Jonathan Dummar, April Daley and Mauro Villanueva; me with Sandy and Roger Deromedi; Ashley Wheater, Maureen Smith and Fabrice Calmels; Christine Ott, Christopher Clinton Conway and Marybeth Brandabur; the lovely Deromedi home; Helen Melchior, April Daley and Mauro Villanueva; Pierre Lockett and Sandy Deromedi; Marina Tatar, Roger Deromedi and Ernie Tatar; Sophie Bross and Liz Ryan. Click here to enjoy more photos from this fantastic fete!
 
Hinckley Yachts and insurance giant Marsh co-hosted a party at the Chicago Yacht Club and over 100 guests showed up in their best boating attire. It was a perfect summer night in Chicago and the lake sparkled from the windows of the Commodore Room. Kate Gaynor, senior VP of Marsh Private Solutions, gave a wonderful introduction and introduced president and CEO of Hinckley, Jim McManus. He gave a terrific presentation on the history of the company and everyone could see how passionate he is about his product. There were a few people in the crowd on this evening with serious intents to buy so after cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, we all went down to play in the boats. They had three on display but my favorite was the T38R Convertible. This runabout functioned just like a car….at the push of a button, the top goes up and down. It was very cool to see. It was even more fun when Kate and Joe Scandariato, vice president of investments for Merrill Lynch and a proud Hinckley owner, offered me the chance to take some friends out on the water for a test ride. We went for an hour and a half cruise and the city never looks more beautiful than when it is viewed from the lake-- then you can see the panoramic skyline with the sun glinting off of all of those windows and it just takes your breath away. The lake was perfect for cruising and our captain took it up to 40 knots and we were flying! It was such a thrill. Guests on the boat included Christine Ott, Marisa Bryce, Sheryl Dyer, Christina Peters and a friend, Joey Majumdar and of course, Kate. Guests at the Yacht Club party included Vicky and Gary Holdren, Dr. Steven Stryker, Kimberly Gleeson, Cindy Burns, Laura Wallace, Ed and Alison Howlett, Josh Walters, Terrence and Tiffany Chappell, Nekesa Josey, Patrick Plante, Brenda Sexton and Ken Cook among others. Great pics are by Caitlin Saville. Photos from top right: Marisa Bryce, Laura Wallace, Christine Ott, me, Cindy Burns, Kimberly Gleeson and Maralyn Owen; Jim McManus and Joe Scandariato; Kate Gaynor, Joe Scandariato and Sheryl Dyerl Laura Wallace, Chuck and Cindy Burns; Ken Cook and Brenda Sexton; me with Jim McManus and Kate Gaynor; a Hinckley yacht; Tiffany and Terrence Chappell; Kimberly Gleeson, Dr. Steven Stryker and a friend; Hector Lopez and Heidi Milby. For more photos from this evening on the lake, click here!

The dinner party was named “A Castlewood Caper” but  was more like a Castlewood Dream when renowned interior designer, John Regas, opened his home for guests last week. The house was drop dead gorgeous—as all of his homes are and have been. The sleek grandeur and attention to detail is John’s hallmark….even when climbing the custom winding staircase. As soon as you step onto the first step, the pin lights come on as if by magic to light your way. The guests were instructed to wear “summer chic” attire but the evening didn’t cooperate as there was a definite chill in the air. Not to worry: John, being the ultimate host, even had matching throws to cover most of the ladies’ dresses! The floral décor by Daniel’s Discriminating Floriculture of the Palmer House, was all pale pinks and whites with big balls of flowers hanging on every pathway light.  There were gorgeous pink roses encased in crystal everywhere you looked and even in the legs of a Lucite table that held the buffet! As John said, his home is a vertical one and not for anyone with a fear of stairs. There are four floors with each staircase opening up onto incredibly designed rooms with a glamorous Art Deco inspired rooftop deck. Glamorous guests included Jean Antoniou, Sheryl Dyer, Paul Iacono, Jim Smith, Hazel Barr and Warren Barr, Lynn and John McMahan, Betty and Dean Pappas, Nancy and Tim Okal, David Myers, Leslie and Scott Hodes, Greg Malinowski, Pat Benett,  Rhonda Sanderson, Samantha Amato, Missy Vitale, Ken Norgan, Paul Rehder, Nicole Jacobs, Maria Pappas, Peter Kamberos, Kathy Stratton, Camille and Ed Pearl, Senya and Paul Kolpacke, Jayme Shenk, Christine and Ernie Cochanis, Susan Gohl, Kent Ottwell, Renee and Herb Schneider, Cookie Cohen, Don Poder, Pat Lauderdale and Greg Hyder among others. Photos from top right: Paul Iacono, John Regas, me and Greg Hyder; Maria Pappas, Ken Norgan and friends; Jean Antoniou, Hazel Barr and Sheryl Dyer; Paul Iacono and Rhonda Sanderson; flowers by Daniel; me with Paul Rehder and Nicole Jacob; John and Lynn McMahan; Cookie Cohen and Stuart; Christine Cochanis and Kathy Stratton with a friend; Pat Lauderdale and Don Poder. Click here for more photos from this magical evening! 

Fifty fabulous women and their guests were treated to breathtaking views, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the newly opened Terrace on 16 at Trump Tower. The event was to celebrate the launch of Margot Berwin’s new summer read, Hot House Flower and the Nine Plants of Desire. This is a tale of mystery, adventure and romance surrounding the obsession of advertising executive, Lila Nova, to obtain the mysterious nine plants of desire. Her quest takes her to the rain forests of the Yucatan. Margot has already sold the film rights to Sony who has cast Julia Roberts in the leading role. Guests included Vicki and Bill Hood, Christie Hefner and Billy Marovitz, Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Mickey Norton, Robin Berger, Suzanne LeMignot, Linda Johnson Rice, Susanna Negovan and Robin Robinson. This was another fantastic party produced by Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions with great pics by Mitchell Canoff. Photos from top right: author Margot Berwin; Gary Gordon, Mickey Norton, Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Michael Sampson; Linda Johnson Rice and Robin Berger; Susanna Negovan and Bridget Brennan. For more photos, click here! 

Don’t forget these fun parties coming up! Wednesday, July 29th, please join me at the Kick-Off Party for Couture & Cocktails at Neiman Marcus. The event will be in the Zodiac Room from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and designer Pamella Roland will be there. There will be informal modeling, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. All you have to do is RSVP to Julia at 312-386-8921 and we will see you there!!! Photo: Couture & Cocktails. 

Monday, August 3rd, is the annual “Day on the Terrace” fashion show and luncheon benefitting the Service Club of Chicago.  It begins with cocktails on the terrace of the Peninsula at 11 a.m. followed by a fashion show in the ballroom at noon. The show will showcase 15 prestigious retailers and tickets are $150. For info, call Maria at (312) 664-8471. Photo: modeling Dismero at last year's Day on the Terrace.

CONGRATS to our own Chef Art Smith on winning the first round of Bravo’s "Top Chef Masters!" He said that cooking on this show was like “losing every ounce of my religion over worrying about dishes, time and the judges.” He competed against chefs Roy Yamaguchi, Michael Cimarusti and Jonathan Waxman. He thanked his Chicago family who “rooted him along to victory.” He had a “big” fried chicken dinner in Beverly Hills to celebrate with the CEO of Magical Elves (the producer of “Top Chef,” “Top Chef Masters,” “Project Runway” and “Top Design”) along with other great chefs. If he wins the finals, he will bring home $100,000 for his worthy charity, Common Threads!!! GOOD LUCK ART!! We’ll be watching!!! Photo: Jonathan Waxman, Roy Yamaguchi, Art Smith and Michael Cimarusti.

President Obama flew in Thursday night for some fundraising duties and even though he closed the expressway and created traffic havoc, it was a very majestic and patriotic sight to see those massive helicopters landing in the soccer field off of North Avenue. There were even secret service people in my stepson’s building at 1660 N. LaSalle! Cynthia Olsen took this pic and said the helicopter was so close, it almost skimmed the petunias on her patio! Photo: Obama's chopper.

As always, I hope you have a wonderful week and are enjoying your summer to the fullest!!!

Love,
Candace :)

P.S. Man-about-the-world, Patrick Plante, attended Walter Cronkite’s funeral and was seated at the luncheon following with Nancy Cronkite, Dick Cavett, Jerry Stiller and Ann Meara. I don’t think there is anyone Patrick doesn’t know!!!!

“BLACKBIRD” WOWS CRITICS AND OPENING NIGHT CROWD

My attendance at the opening night performance of “Blackbird” at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater came about due to a bit of serendipity. I was lucky enough to have met the executive director, Jan Kallish, and the artistic director, Dennis Zacek, at Sugar Rautbord’s party for Larry King. As a matter of fact, we shared a cab home together and during the ride Dennis said casually, “You should come see our next play at the Biograph starring William Petersen. It’s a bit of a departure for him.” I’ll say! What an understatement! This drama had the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the 90-minute (no intermission) production and was unlike anything I’d seen before. I had never heard of “Blackbird” which was written by David Harrower and first presented in Edinburgh in 2005. It won the 2007 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Play and Best Play in the Scottish Theatre Critics Awards. I must tell you, it’s not easy to watch and the subject matter is not something that I would normally seek out. I’m more comfortable with more light-hearted fare – musicals like “Mary Poppins” come to mind – but I am so glad to have seen it. All of the newspapers have given it rave reviews and I can see why. It seemed like a risk for William Petersen but he became Ray and co-star Mattie Hawkinson played Una to perfection. (Her next film role will be with Robert De Niro so catch her while you can!) The story revolves around the awkward reunion of these two people 15 years after a passionate affair when he was 40 and she was a minor. The Associated Press calls it “a fascinating and unnerving 90- minute cat-and-mouse tale of revenge and sexual intrigue, with genuine theatricality and undeniable shock value.” The New York Times says “it promises to be the most powerful drama of the season.” It was directed by Dennis Zacek and there is also an appearance by another gifted young actress, Lauren Delfs. William Petersen had his first dramatic lead role on stage in 1978 with this very same theater company when he played the title role in “Dillinger.” Lots of friends and fans were on hand on opening night to cheer him on including his CSI co-star Marg Helgenberger, who flew in to toast him. She arrived with old friends Sugar Rautbord, Sugar’s sister Patrica Tracy and Patrick Plante. Other guests that night included Fanchon and Bruce Simons, Christine Ott with friend Stuart Burnstine, actor John Mahoney and William (Billy’s) wife, Gina Cirone (they were married in 2003). It was a wonderful celebration and an incredible theater experience. I highly recommend “Blackbird” which runs through August 9th at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago. Tickets are $30 to $58 and can be purchased by calling the box office at 773-871-3000 or online at www.victorygardens.org. Welcome home Billy!!!! Photos from top right: "Blackbird" stars William Petersen and Mattie Hawkinson; artistic director Denniz Zacek, Mattie Hawkinson, Lauren Delfs and William Petersen; executive director Jan Kallish and Lauren Delfs; CSI co-star Marg Helenberger congratulating William; the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater marquee; Gina Cirone and William Petersen; Patricia Tracy, Patrick Plante, Sugar Rautbord and Marg Helenberger;  Fanchon Simons and John Mahoney; Stuart Burnstine and Christine Ott; Fanchon and Bruce Simons. For more photos from this amazing evening, click here! 
 
Last week was a week to remember! Another incredibly unique experience came through another bit of luck: I was invited to the opening night of Cavalia by Steven Nowack, a partner and promoter of the show, after he tracked me down through my blog! See there are some perks to writing CandidCandace! So I invited some high-profile friends who I thought would be good for Steven to meet. There was a lovely VIP tent called the Rendezvous Tent that had cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and some delightful souvenirs from the show. And then in we went for one of the most amazing equestrian odysseys we’d ever experienced. The show was created by Cirque du Soleil founder Normand Latourelle and there were some similarities—but only in the creativity because this show was all about the love and evolution of the horse. They were the stars and they seemed to love every minute of it! There are 13 different breeds of horses, including Arabians, Lusitanos, quarter horses, Appaloosas and paint horses from France, the Netherlands, Canada, Spain and the United States. They are all stallions and geldings and have been trained using only hand gestures and talking. There are two horse whisperers in the show whose performances will astound you. It is truly a feast for all of your senses since the show also involves acrobats, aerialists, dancers, riders and musicians (the music is live) in a dream-like setting created by Erick Villeneuve. Larry King called it “the greatest show he’s ever seen” and O Magazine proclaimed that “the wildly beautiful stallions of Cavalia leave audiences with their hearts galloping.” I agree wholeheartedly. When you see the horses tearing across the stage (which is the size of a regulation NFL football field!) with no bridles, it will bring tears to you eyes—their beauty is so haunting. My host Steven Nowack had seen the show 498 times and his enthusiasm on this night was just the same as if he were seeing it for the first time. He told me that creator Normand Latourelle transports 60 to 80 tons of dirt from show to show so the horses will be on a ground they are familiar with. The Cavalia tent is the largest touring tent in North America and when you spy the white peaks of the Big Top for the first time, you will be transported back to childhood and the excitement of your first circus. It’s an experience I’ll never forget. We were lucky enough to go behind the scenes on this night and see the horses up close in their comfy 16,500 square foot stables. They were truly majestic and are nature’s miracles in every way. The opening night was a 2000+ sell out crowd and they have already extended the run to August 2nd. Opening night guests included Maria Pinto, Carrie Lannon, Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Stella Foster, Billy Dec and his fiancé Katherine Stephens, NBC Street Team’s Marcus Riley and Catherine Perez, Dennis Minkle, Hazel, Warren and Maggie Barr, Jerry Kleiner and Marissa Molinaro, Judy and Howard Tullman, Lynn and John McMahan, Kathy O’Malley Piccone, Diana and Carlos Chavez, Rich Gregorin, Heidi Milby and Hector Lopez, John Regas and Paul Iacono. This is a must-see for young and old and anyone looking for an experience they won’t soon forget. The show runs two hours and 20 minutes with a 25-minute intermission. Tickets start at $45.50 and can be purchased online at www.cavalia.net or by calling 1-866-999-8111. Photos from top right: Cavalia founder Normand Latourelle and me; Dennis Minkle, Carrie Lannon and Maria Pinto with a friend; Diana Chavez, me, Kathy (O'Malley) Piccone and Stella Foster; Marcus Riley and Catherine Perez; Paul Iacono, Chuck, Jim Smith and Greg Hyder; John Regas with Hazel and Maggie Barr; Jerry Kleiner Marissa Molinaro and Normand Latourelle; Katherine Stephens, Billy Dec and me; Cavalia tack room; a rider in the show; happy VIP guests; Normand Latourelle, me and Steven  Nowack; Kathy (O'Malley) Piccone, Paul Iacono and Diana Chavez. 

We went to a screening of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” that benefitted Urban Prep Academy

. If you haven’t heard of Urban Prep, you should know what they do: It’s Chicago’s only all-boys charter public school and their mission is to turn urban youth, mostly young African-American boys, into college graduates. Their nickname is “Little Obamas.” Urban Prep founder and CEO Tim King played the role of High Wizard for this premier and Richard Roeper introduced the film. This Potter is my favorite after the “Sorcerer’s Stone” but I recommend waiting to see it in 3D at the IMAX coming July 29th. Magic and romance abound! J. K. Rowling appeared in an hour-long special on ABC last week and she said her next work will be a political fairy tale. She is also in talks for a Harry Potter Amusement Park! Wouldn’t that be awesome?! Guests at the screening included Chicago Bears Rasheed Davis, Brenda Sexton (who helped organize the event) and Ken Cook, Daniel Nikitas (executive VP of MB Real Estate) and lots of happy students! The after-party was held at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. Photos from top left: Chicago Bear Rasheed Davis and Urban Prep founder and CEO Tim King with students; Richard Roeper, Curtis Nordeen (a partner in Fleming's) and Tim King; Potter people (go Gryffindor!) 
 
Jerry Kleiner’s newest restaurant, 33 Club, opens Tuesday at 1419 N. Wells. This building was my husband’s old advertising agency so you can bet we will be going there! From the photos I’ve seen, it’s typical gorgeous Kleiner chic. There are 20-foot-tall mahogany ceilings and walls with a dramatic center staircase. I recognized the unique chairs with Louis Vuitton luggage handles from Room 21 and am glad to see that Jerry recycles like the rest of us. He said the name of the restaurant is inspired by the point in time when Prohibition ended (1933) and was a time of celebration. He feels like we need a new beginning now and the name represents this feeling. The menu is described as “classic American fare” and I can’t wait to try it! Welcome to the ‘hood Jerry!!! Photos from top left: 33 Club dining room; owner Jerry Kleiner; inside 33 Club.  
 
On Friday, July 24th, mark your calendars for the annual Chefs and the City event at the Peninsula Hotel! This party benefits Vital Bridges, an organization that helps more than 2400 people impacted by HIV/AIDS in Chicago. The Premier Tasting is from 7 to 10 p.m. and the VIP After-Party is from 10:30 p.m. to midnight. Participating restaurants include Arun’s, Perennial, Sola, The Publican, RL Restaurant, Sepia, Spring, Union League Club of Chicago, NoMi, David Burke’s Primehouse, Blackbird, Bistro Campagne and Anteprima. Other supporters include Allen Brothers and Swirlz Cupcakes. Tickets start at $250 and can be purchased by calling Vital Bridges at 773-271-5117. Photos from top right: Chefs and the City table decor; Swirlz Cupcakes. 
 
I will celebrate my 20th wedding anniversary on July 21st and, quite honestly, it feels like Chuck and I tied the knot just yesterday! We were married at the Drake Hotel and honeymooned in Paris. Thanks so much for being my husband Chuck...I love you with all of my heart! Photo: the happiest day of my life.
 
I hope you all have a wonderful week and are enjoying the summer! :)
 
Love,
Candace :)

P.S. What was Richard Gere doing in Old Town today? Is he here scouting a movie??!!!

AN ASCOT BALL AUDREY WOULD’VE LOVED!

The Ascot Ball at the Casino benefitting the English Speaking Union was an Audrey Hepburn fan’s dream come true for its "Breakfast at Tiffany's" party! Guests all dressed according to the theme with lots of form-fitting black dresses with pearls cascading down the front. Event co-chairs Lynn McMahan, Mamie Walton and ESU president Brian White even supplied “props” to help guests transform themselves “into the moment” with white boas, ultra long cigarette holders and little mini rhinestone crowns. Audrey would’ve been so proud! More than 150 people were in attendance and were greeted by a trio of violinists dressed in white tie and tails playing nostalgic melodies associated with this famous icon. A highlight of the evening was the traditional Toast to the Queen led by National English Speaking Union president emerita Doe Thornburg, OBE, followed by the Response Toast to the United States President from Consul General for India, the Honorable Ashok Attri. The room décor by Tom Kehoe was one of the prettiest I’ve seen and fit the space and theme perfectly: towering vases of white plumes with a profusion of massed white flowers, white satin tablecloths with Tiffany blue napkins and silver bowls of white roses and hydrangeas with shaded crystal candelabras. The room sparkled and drew gasps from the guests when the doors were opened. An elegant menu began with cucumber consommé followed by Colorado rack of lamb or halibut with spring vegetables. Next came a salad of romaine, pear and Roquefort cheese ending with a Grand Marnier soufflé with crème anglaise…makes me hungry just typing this. The live auction was led by Christie’s Steven Zick and included lots of interesting items. A cocktail party at Stanley Paul’s fabulous Art Deco penthouse with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for 14 went to lucky bidder Oscar Tatisian. A sailboat cruise aboard The Grand Vizier on Lake Michigan, donated by Jim Kinney and Brian White,  included cocktails and a luncheon served by the boat’s butler and was won by Ann O’Brien. A Naples package, donated by Susan and Fred Gohl, included a three-hour cruise on their 106-foot boat, the Susanna Bella, which was decorated by famous interior designer John Regas. This package also included a stay at the Ritz Carlton in Naples and a day of golf on their course for lucky winners Rodger and Janet Owens. And then the moment everyone was waiting for! Who was the winner of the raffle prize which was a gorgeous platinum, diamond and aquamarine “Legacy” cocktail ring donated by Tiffany & Co. and valued at $7,650? The ring caused fevered ticket buying but the winner wanted to remain anonymous. I saw the ring and I don’t blame her for this…it’s GORGEOUS and everyone wanted it! The evening went on into the wee hours with dancing to the Stanley Paul Orchestra. I know how hard Mamie and Lynn worked on this and I also know Lynn did a lot of the work under terrible conditions at her home—including lack of computer and phone service for a while and even flooding! But a swarm of locusts couldn’t keep these co-chairs down, that’s for sure!!! I am so proud and happy for them and their success with this event!! Kudos Mamie, Lynn and Brian!!! :) Photos from top right: event chairs Mamie Walton, Brian White and Lynn McMahan; Toni Canada, Rochelle Smith, Heather Farley and Karen Smith; India's Consul General Ashok Attri and his wife; Kristina and Mike McGrath; Brad Griffith and Tiffani Kim; Mr. and Mrs. Peter Martino and friend; Tom Kehoe decor; Mamie Walton, Averill Leviton, Cynthia Olson and Lynn McMahan; Megan McKinney and Bunky Cushing; Cookie Cohen and Stewart Fineberg; Kate Gaynor and Ray Drymalski; Stanley Paul with Mamie and Lynn. For more photos from this fantastic fete, click here!

Chicago’s very own powerhouse and “Hostess with the Mostest” Kathy O’Malley celebrated her birthday in grand style at Prosecco Ristorante last Tuesday night. Event organizer BJ Murray and I invited close to 200 people and they all came to toast this beloved woman! Kathy has always been gorgeous but I think she’s never looked better! See the pics for proof! The party lasted until around 2 a.m. with Kathy blowing out candles on her giant birthday cake (and no, I didn’t stay this long!). Everyone came—old friends Angie and Paul Murges, Jerry Ranalli, Alan Sax, John Regas, Paul Iacono, Rhonda Sanderson, Jim Levin, Dorothy Whealan, Felicia and Curt Winiecki, Thom Ward, Chilli Pepper, Caren Crystal, Sarinda and Gian Fulgoni, Jason Totani, Dori Wilson, Pedro Vega, Lee Casty, boss Steve Lombardo, Kelly Mulqueeny, Charley Jordan, Elizabeth Bertucci, Gail and Denny Engleman, Monica Kasley, Bonni and Chuck Gross, TCW’s Lauren Rafferty, Matthewy Adamczyk and many, many more. The photog for the evening was the very aptly-named Steve Starr! Happy birthday, my dear friend! :) Photos from top left: Kathy O'Malley, BJ Murray and me; Siliwia Wilcznska, Kathy and Candace Boyle; John Regas, Paul Iacono, Matthew Adamczyk, me, Chuck and Rhonda Sanderson; Chuck, Angie Murges, Jerry Ranalli and Paul Murges; Kelly Mulqueeney and Diana Chavez. Click here for more pictures from this spectacular celebration!
 
Christie Hefner hosted a book signing party this week for her friend, Barbara Bonfigli, who has just written her first book, Café Tempest. The event was held at Christie and Billy Marovitz's magnificent apartment with drop-dead gorgeous views of the city from every room. Billy told me it used to belong to Jerry Wexler and he remembered visiting and seeing many big-name politicians here so it’s a dream come true for him to be living here now. Barbara is a very accomplished lady and besides being an author, she is also a lyricist and theatrical producer. She is a delight with a bright twinkle in her eye that tells you this is a woman living her dreams and marching to her own drumbeat. Christie served wonderful Greek appetizers and wines in keeping with the “flavor” of the book which is a wonderful fictional memoir based on Barbara’s adventures on a small Greek island. According to her bio, “she wore out five passports and four continents before settling down on a mythical Greek island to uncork her memories, her imagination, and a bottle or two of retsina.” Retsina, by the way, is a Greek wine that is the key ingredient in Barbara’s Tempestini cocktail creation. These were served at the party and as a treat the recipe was given out in the form of bookmarks. It is 3 oz of retsina, 1 ½ oz of Samos (a Greek dessert wine), 3 oz of pure unsweetened cranberry juice and a splash of Triple Sec. Put all ingredients in a martini shaker full of ice and shake well then strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a fresh orange slice. Barbara suggests you sip this while reading Café Tempest! She read two chapters from her book and it sounds absolutely delightful. Her co-creators include her partner Marilynn Preston and Adnan Periyali. I have my signed copy ready and waiting by my bedside. Christie was a brilliant hostess and led the audience in a Q & A. I think there might be a talk show in her future, for sure! Christie’s mom, Millie Gunn, was there looking exactly the same as she did 20-plus years ago in our Playboy days. Now she is retired and happily spending time tutoring little children—she was a teacher in her early years and seems very happy and content. Barbara’s glamorous mother, Dorris Carr Bonfigli, flew in from New York for her daughter’s book signing and there was a wonderfully supportive crowd of friends. They included Bill Zwecker, Tom Gorman, Marisa and Dimitri Alexander (who are expecting a baby girl soon), Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Barbara Kipper, Andrea Dres (who is with the Oprah Show and was one of the 1,500 lucky employees who got to take her family on the all expense paid ocean liner cruise with Oprah and Gail), Katherine Smith, George Bliss, Maria Pappas, Susanna Negovan, Brenda Sexton, Leslie Hindman, Mary Lou Gorno and many others. Café Tempest has been called a contemporary version of Zorba the Greek, A Year in Provence and “Eat, Pray, Love and is available at Women & Children First Bookstore at 5233 N. Clark or through www.TellMePress.com. Kali tihi Barbara! Photos from top right: author Barbara Bonfigli with hostess Christie Hefner; Barbara Kipper and Bill Marovitz; Mary Lou Gorno and Leslie Hindman; Margo Rush, Millie Gunn and Barbara Kipper; tray of Tempestinis; Joy Germont, Katherine Smith and Andrea Dres; Joan and Richard Kohn with Marisa and Dimitri Alexander; Margo Rush with Barbara's mom Dorris Carr Bonfigli; Andrea Dres, George Bliss, Terry Poulos and Susanna Negovan; listening to the chapter reading. For more photos from this event, click here!   

I am so excited about this week! “Blackbird” opened last night at the Victory Gardens Theater starring William Petersen, Cavalia opens tonight AND we have a sneak preview of AND a sneak preview of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”!!!! I may be the biggest Potter fan on the planet! As a matter of fact, the Sun-Times is doing an article on our book collection which will run the end of this month or early August. Part of the collection consists of all things Potter! We have all of the American and British first editions signed by J.K. Rowling including the three presentation books addressed to her father as well as the script from the first and second movies signed by the cast members….so YESSSS I am a HUGE fan! I am SOOO excited about this movie premiere and all of these other wonderful events in Chicago! And, as always, you will have every detail! Photos from top right: William Petersen in "Blackbird"; Cavalia; "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" poster; signed "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" presentation copy to J.K. Rowling's father, Peter.
 
Hope you have a wonderful week and stay forever young!
 
Love,
Candace :)

OUR CHICAGO HOUSEWIVES AUDITION!

Thursday was a very eventful day for Shauna Montgomery, Shelly MacArthur Farley, Whitney Lasky and me: We filmed our auditions for Becky Cattie of Towers Productions! We all gathered at Shauna’s gorgeous North Lake Shore Drive apartment for our group interview in front of a big bank of windows (which made the lighting perfect for us). Becky’s assistant Mary Kozelka did the filming and should be on a show herself she’s so pretty. We all had previously filled out an eight-page questionnaire that included questions such as what’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?, were you ever arrested?, describe your personality, who are the people you surround yourself with?, describe a typical day in your life, what would people not know just by looking at you?, have you ever filed for bankruptcy?, what are you passionate about? and many more. Now Towers Productions knows more about me than my husband does!! After the group interview, Becky interviewed us individually. We were told they are looking at four or five more groups but are more interested in women who live downtown since they want to feature our gorgeous city prominently in the filming! YEAHHH!! I know there are lots of gorgeous and dynamic Chicago women out there so Becky and Mary have their work cut out for them! We will be told in three weeks or so of the outcome. Good luck to ALL and may the best housewives win! (Exclusive audition photos by Caitlin Saville.) Photos from top right: the future "Real Housewives of Chicago"; our group audition; Shauna's lovely foyer; refreshments were served; entertaining our interviewers...and ourselves; Whitney and me having a laugh. For more photos, click here!

Sugar Rautbord and Suzie Glickman planned another blockbuster evening when they introduced Paula Froelich, editor of the New York Post’s infamous Page Six, to her adoring Chicago fans on June 17th. The occasion was to celebrate the launch of her bestseller, already three weeks on the list, Mercury in Retrograde. Gigi Grazer, author of The Starter Wife, describes the book this way: “Move over Dorothy Parker…funny, clever and engaging…gives the reader the ultimate insider’s view into the looking-glass world of a working girl’s Manhattan.” Best-selling author Erica Jong says it is “a delicious romp—our horoscope-addicted heroine will make you laugh and cry. Great fun!” The heroine’s name is Penelope Mercury and she’s a reporter at the New York Telegraph. She pounds the pavement breaking stories that seem inconsequential to everyone but her boss. And then she is fired. Another character is Lena “Lipstick Carcrash” Lippencrass (this name alone makes me want to buy the book!), who is a socialite of the highest standards until her parents cut her off for refusing to work in the family business. And then there is Dana Gluck, a workaholic lawyer who is hoping her failing marriage will be revived by having a child. Then her husband leaves her for an exchange student/model who promptly gets pregnant. They all wind up in the same SoHo apartment building and realize having their carefully planned lives fall to pieces might be the best thing that’s ever happened to them. The book launch was held at Hub 51 and the hosts were Sugar, Suzie, Bill Zwecker, Trisha Rooney Alden, RJ and Jerrod Melman and moi. Guests included Lynn McMahan, Brenda Sexton and Ken Cook, Diane Whiteley with her darling hubby, Ross Glickman, Celeb TV’s Kelli Zink, 24/7 producer Jeff Conway, Lydia Alouf, Gale Gottlieb, Leslie Hindman, Jim Gorman, Patrick Plante, Christina Ghilberti, Jennifer Kiefer, Shauna Montgomery, Whitney Lasky, Dr. Ian Smith, Anna Devlantes, Kathleen Henson, Scott Yonover and Nora Daley among others. Congrats Paula! I can’t wait to read Mercury in Retrograde!!! :) (Special thanks to Mitch Canoff for photos!) Photos from top right: Paula Froelich; Jennifer Keifer, Sugar Rautbord and Christina Ghilberti; Ken Cook and Brenda Sexton; Bill Zwecker and Paula; me and Celeb TV's Kelli Zink; Paula and Patti Lambrecht; Kelli Zink and producer Jeff Conway; me and co-host Suzie Glickman; Lynne Bredfeldt and Michelle Barone; Whitney, Shauna and me with Paula; me with co-host/Hub 51 owner RJ Melman and Paula.

Thursday evening, Vogue style expert Amy Tara Koch and Whitney Lasky co-hosted “Evening in Vogue”, an event held each year in various cities across the country for area movers and shakers. (They also have events in L.A., NYC, San Francisco and Miami.) Originally, it was to be held at Whitney’s apartment but the weather seemed threatening so it was changed to the Golden Triangle at 333 N. LaSalle St. There was fun food from The Entertaining Company, cocktails and several different vendors selling top vintage designer collections. Cameron Silver from Decades in L.A. brought in incredible pieces by Lanvin, Pucci, Balenciaga and Chanel. Sally Kovler from Tangerine Sky had jewelry from India and Lisa Kingsley showed her exotic handbags as did Gillian Carrera. A portion of the evening’s sales benefitted The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation. Chic guests included Matt Murphy, Rachel Schwanz, Shellie Thompson, Grace Sergio-Banks, Tina Culver, Fred’s personal shopper Q, Jan Flanagan, Kristina McGrath, Kate Prange, Susan Ifergan with daughter Chloe, Leslie Zentner with her daughter Kate, Christina Ghilberti, Jennifer Keifer, Marci Holzer, Gale Gottlieb, Sherrill Bodine, Dusty Stemer, Becky Cattie, Mary Kozelka, Patrick Plante, Sugar Rautbord, Scott Bobek,  Kate Templin, Dan Uslan, Leslie Bluhm, Cheryle Jackson, Dede Lubeznik, Shauna Owens, Meredith Woodprince, Sophie Bross, Kate Neisser, Sam Goldberg, Ellee, Pai Hong, Jennifer Oppenheim, Robin Berger, Morris Gerring and Linda Bynoe among others. BTW, congrats to Amy Tara Koch on her first book to be published by Random House in March 2010. Now we have ANOTHER party to look forward to!!! Photos from top right: co-host Amy Tara Koch with Kate Prangle; Ann Wallace with co-host Whitney Lasky; Jan Flanagan with Kristina McGrath; Debbie Beitler and Noren Ungaretti; Tina Weller and Mary Lasky; Matt Murphy and Dusty Stemer with friend; Grace Sergio-banks and Tina Culver; Barney's Q with Shayna and Shelley. For more photos, click here! 

Monday evening I visited my friend Christina Peters at the VIP opening party for her new store, Bisazza at 226 W. Kinzie. I must say I was blown away by the incredible tile and home furnishing choices. Bisazza Mosaico has been synonymous with luxury for decades and with new designs by Andree Putnam, Jaime Hayon and design director Carlo Dal Bianco, their Italian tiles have dressed some of the most exquisite celebrity homes, public venues and famed art. Established in 1956 in Alte Vicenza in Northern Italy, the company is the leading producer of glass mosaic for interior and outdoor decoration. They employ 795 people and have nine flagship stores in Barcelona, Berlin, London, L.A., Milan, Moscow, N.Y., Paris, Rome and soon Tokyo and Antwerp. Bisazza brings lux to a whole new level and is a “see it to believe it” kind of store. Launched in 2006, Bisazza Home offers a collection of furniture and accessories also designed by world-class designers. Rumor has it that Oprah and Rod Stewart love the Bisazza pool designs and Kate Walsh is a fan as well. The spa at New York’s Waldorf-Astoria and the custom pool pattern for the new Elysian Hotel here also feature designs by Bisazza. Emily Blinn and Kristin Shea from Chicago Home & Garden magazine, owner Rossella Bisazza, Dustin O’Regan, George Spencer, Sandra Casparriello, Tina Cervone, Bridget Kearney, Jessica Lagrange, Julia Pesak, Michael Richman, Mary Kay Mudd, Kerry Moriarty, Maria Pinto (who has Bisazza tiles in her new showroom), James Kinney, Lara Schiffman, Marisa Bryce, Luke Gibson, Jan Parr (editor-in-chief of Chicago Home & Garden magazine), Jessica and Fredrik Neilsen, Roger Hill, Janet McCann, Rachel Brockway and Felicia Ferrone were among the crowd of 300. I wish them the very best with their first Chicago location. Photos from top left: owner Rossella Bisazza; Christina Peters; Kerry Moriarty, Mary Kay Mudd, Dustin O'Regan and Marisa Bryce; Emily Blinn and Kristin Shea; 24-carat gold "Damasco Oro" in Rossella's office; beautiful Bisazza; the new Chicago flagship store.

A special thanks to former Q101 DJ Todd Fooks and Chicago Sun-Times reporter Mark Konkol for having me on their show, “Keeping Score in Chicago”. They asked tough questions such as which team do I root for, the White Sox or Cubs. I said both and my husband said I tried to pull a “Hillary” and be politically correct and he was right! I should’ve admitted that I’m a Cubs fan but I love Ozzie. Kerry Wood and Paul Konerko have both lived on the street behind us at various times so I have connections with both teams…If you’d like to check out the interview, follow this link. I must warn you, it’s a little long and I am last so you should slide the cursor half way to start the show.  Photos from top right: co-host Todd Fooks; co-host Mark Konkol.
 
Don’t forget the English Speaking Union’s upcoming “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Ascot Ball this Friday night, June 26th! Co-chairs Lynn McMahan and Mamie Walton have planned lots of surprises and it will certainly be an all-star cast of guests! It will begin at 7 p.m. at the Casino with music by the Stanley Paul Orchestra. Sponsor Tiffany & Co. have donated the raffle prize which is  a gorgeous aquamarine and diamond “Legacy” ring valued at $7650. There will be a live and silent auction which will include yacht parties and a penthouse cocktail party among other unique offerings. Tickets start at $350 and can be purchased by calling 630-241-2363. Plan your best Holly Golightly look and I’ll see you there!! :) Photos from top right: Lynn McMahan and Mamie Walton; Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in "Breakfast at Tiffany's"
 
A special birthday wish to Margie Habermann who was feted at Frontera Grill last week by friends Helen Melchior, Amelia Silva and Ann Waters! I hope I’m there to celebrate with you on your 100th Margie!! :) Photo: Amelia Silva, Margie Habermann, Helen Melchior and Ann Waters.

I hope you all have a wonderful week of glorious summer weather (finally!) and stay happy and healthy! Also, as this photo proves, our southern borders are well protected….so nothing to worry about….
 
Love,
Candace :)

SUGAR SHINES AT LARRY KING BOOK PARTY!

On Saturday evening, May 30th, socialite/author Sugar Rautbord hosted a party for Larry King and over 150 friends and fans showed up. To borrow a line from Mary Poppins, “it was practically perfect in every way.” Every way, that is, except for the honoree who didn’t seem so happy to be there. Larry was in town promoting his book, “My Incredible Journey” and attending the Cubs/Dodgers game, which might explain his lack of energy. He’s a big Dodgers fan but he still sang during the seventh inning stretch—go figure. As I was getting ready for this party, I was listening to the Cub’s post-game show on WGN and boy, were the fans upset. They did NOT want a Dodger’s fan singing OUR song and I can’t say I disagree. His two sons were in the box with him and they were both wearing their Dodgers shirts. No more singing celebs unless they’re REAL FANS please! Anyway, it was an incredibly well attended party with even our possible future governor and current Attorney General Lisa Madigan in attendance.  Sugar’s impeccable party planning skills showed in every detail including the delightful cookies—one with a crown (get it? KING) and one personalized with Larry on it. I had a chance to meet his gorgeous wife Shawn - very tall, thin and gracious - and his two sons Chance (named for their chance meeting) and Cannon (named after the street they live on in Beverly Hills). Larry King Jr. was there as well helping his father with the book signing. (HE was delightful!) Friends who came out to support her and meet Larry included novelist Scott Turow, biographers Bill Zehme and Carol Felsenthal, Rich and Martha Melman, former Bull Bill Cartwright, Victory Gardens’ Dennis Zacek and Jan Kallish, Georgia and Jerry Fogelson, Arlene and Marshall Bennett, Paula and Alexis Fasseas, Lydia and Francois Alouf, Maria Smithburg, Ann Gerber, Dawn Miller, Elizabeth Goizueta, Thomas Monahan, Christina Ghilberti, Suzie, Ross and Todd Glickman, Shia Kapos, Traci Mansur, Suzanne LeMignot, Dr. Steve Stryker, Kim Gleason, Whitney and Jerry Lasky, Scott Bobek, K.D. Aubert, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano and Sun-Times publisher John Barron and his wife Maureen and many, many more (as you'll see from these photos taken by yours truly and the fabulous Mitchell Canoff). I know Larry is the titan of television but I think Sugar was the real highlight Saturday night! Her life, her photos, friends and apartment all scored A+ in my book….now there’s the real story. Proof positive is seen in her awesome Skrebneski portrait taken for Interview magazine when Andy Warhol was editor! BTW, watch for lots more exciting parties and events coming up when dynamic co-host Suzie Glickman teams up with Sugar on a number of projects coming soon!! I can’t WAIT!!!!! :) Photos from top right: Sugar Rautbord, Larry and Shawn King and Suzie Glickman; Larry with Attorney General Lisa Madigan; Shia Kapos with Paula and Alexis Fasseas; CBS's Suzanne LeMignot; Sugar displaying some sugar; Bill Cartwright; me with Shawn and Chance King; Thomas Monahan, Elizabeth Goizueta and Christina Ghilberti; K.D. Aubert and Dr. Michael Horn; Sugar's Skrebneski portrait; Larry King Jr. and me. For more photos from this fantastic event, click here!

On Tuesday, May 19th, Bunky Cushing hosted the first annual “Early Birds and Bookworms,” an exclusive book signing and author breakfast to raise funds and awareness for the Jane Addams Senior Caucus (JASC). Many of Chicago’s most philanthropic got up very early to meet Charlie Schieps, the acclaimed curator, art advisor and author of “American Fashion”. Charlie shared stories about how this richly illustrated book, which highlights eight decades of fashion in America, came to be a coffee table staple. The event, which was underwritten by RL Restaurant raised more than $10,000 to support the JASC which helps older area adults build relationships, develop leaders, educate people and create the power necessary for them to play a central role in determining their quality of life. Their primary goal is to develop senior leadership and organized power for social justice. Guests included Mamie Walton, Linda Heister, Shirley Michels, Lisa Malkin, Myra Reilly, Carol Prins, Gerri Shute, Gretchen Jordan, Shauna Montgomery, Rebecca Besser, Robin Berger, Megan McKinney, JASC Chair Vicki Adams, Heather Wright, Lisa Gutierrez, Hazel Barr, Zarada Gowenlock, Maria Smithburg, Peggy Martay, Dori Wilson, Susan Gohl, Bill Zwecker, Whitney Lasky and Sherren Leigh among others.  You can bet that whenever Bunky puts his considerable clout behind an organization that they are in for tons of support!  Good luck Bunky and thanks for all you do for ALL of us! (For more info on supporting the JASC, please call 773-404-6429). Photos from top left: Charlie Shieps addressing the crowd; Bunky Cushing and Maria Smithburg; Gretchen Jordan, Shauna Montgomery, Rebecca Besser and Robin Berger; Megan McKinney, Linda Heister, Zarada Gowenlock and Mamie Walton; Carol Prins and Gerri Schute; Heather Wright, Hazel Barr and Lisa Gutierrez; Myra Reilly and Lisa Malkin. For more photos from this event, click here! (A big thanks to Dan Rest for these shots!)
 
Choose your team and get ready to “fork up” for Common Threads' third annual Cross Town Culinary Classic on June 19th at the Four Seasons! Imagine the most amazing ball park fare but taken to extreme foodie level! Think lobster corn dogs with caviar aioli; short-rib meatball sliders with horseradish and Wisconsin cheddar; Kobe beef hot dogs; “everything” tacos with duck carnitas; Pilsen truffles and foraged ramp salsa; goat cheese and semolina croquette and braised goat sliders with Moroccan BBQ sauce! And this is just a sampling! The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a Ballpark Reception showcasing these fine dining versions of favorite ballpark snacks. At 7 p.m., watch the kitchen action live on flat screen TVs throughout the restaurant as the Southside and Northside rivalry heats up between the Four Seasons executive chef and White Sox fan Kevin Hickey and Cubs fan Giuseppe Tentori of Boka. There will also be a silent auction all benefitting Common Threads. Tickets are only $200 and can be purchased by calling Mary Ann at 312-329-2501 ext. 204 or e-mail maryann@commonthreads.org. I hope to see you there! Photos from top right: Chefs Kevin Hickey and Giuseppe Tentori; Common Threads co-founders Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero with executive director Linda Novick O'Keefe. 

I want you all to know I am an equal-opportunity supporter in the political arena. A few blogs ago, you were introduced to Alexi Giannoulias who is running for the Senate and now I want you to meet our Attorney General Lisa Madigan who might be throwing  her hat into the ring for Governor. She has already done so much for Chicago and it was a wonderful and supportive turnout for her Tuesday night at the Ivy Room at the Tree Studios. Guest speaker was the formidable Ellen Malcolm, president and founder of Emily’s List. It’s nice to know we have such wonderful choices ahead of us…may the best man or woman win in all of the races! Photo: Attorney General Lisa Madigan. 
 
We have so many wonderful authors in our midst as well and I’m happy to introduce you to yet another one! Catherine O’Connell is back with her second urbane and witty mystery set against the backdrop of Chicago high society called “Well Read and Dead”. Her heroine, Pauline Cook, is diamond-clad, beautiful, smart and extraordinarily resourceful as she travels across the world unraveling the secrets behind her friend’s suspicious disappearance. Diane Whiteley organized a wonderful reception for Catherine Thursday evening at the St. John Boutique and many supporters turned out to celebrate—many of them clutching her first book, “Well Bred and Dead”, for her to sign. She lives in Chicago and Aspen and her life reads like her books—exciting and filled with exotic twists and turns. If you missed her at this party, make sure you come to The Drake this Tuesday (6/9) from 2-5 to meet her (or check out her web site at www.catherineoconnell.net. Photos from top left: me and Catherine O'Connell; Cynthia Olsen, Stanley Paul and Diane Whiteley.
 
Now we have more wonderful birthdays and parties to celebrate! Man of the world B.J. Murray celebrated recently with friends at Prosecco before heading back out to La La Land and photog Steve Starr was there to capture it all. Jannie Pearlman celebrated a birthday recently at her gorgeous new home in Phoenix and recent Michigan Avenue Magazine star Lynn McMahan was surprised at L2o with a party organized by her darling husband John and Hazel Barr. Twenty-one friends were there to celebrate including Dennis Minkel, Victor Skrebneski, Lynda and Howard Silverman, Sherrill and John Bodine, Bunky Cushing, Hazel and Warren Barr, Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul, Fred Tokowitz, Averill and Bernie Leviton, Jane and Bernard Karasick and us. Kudos to Tom Kehoe for the fabulous table décor! Photos from top right: B.J. Murray with his sisters Lisa and Tera Dunlap (photo courtesy of Steve Starr); Jannie Pearlman; Lynn McMahan; ESU president Brian White, Sherrill Bodine, Lynda Silverman and Jim Kinney. For more photos from Lynn's bash, click here!

I hope you’ve been following the fun and excitement scooped by our own Bill Zwecker in his column concerning the local reality show coming to Chicago based on the hot Bravo series, “The Real Housewives of…” (Past seasons have taken place in Orange County, NYC, Atlanta and New Jersey.) In this case, they are scouting Chicago “seeking a dynamic group of ladies leading extraordinary lives….modern housewives who juggle busy lives and look great doing it! No wallflowers please.” The Sun-Times ran an article which showcased Shelley MacArthur Farley, Sugar Rautbord, Whitney Lasky, Elizabeth Berger and me!! This article was missing someone though so I’m throwing Shauna Montgomery’s tiara into the ring myself! :) May the best housewife win! I hope I’m one of them!! Photo: the cast of "The Real Housewives of New York."
 
By the way, I am now blogging for the Tribune’s web site, Chicago Now, as I mentioned last week. I am blogging more regularly there if you want instant updates. Also, check out the Sun-Times editorial battle news between me and someone who chose to keep their byline a secret… Photo: me with Chicago Now's Jimmy Greenfield and Bill Adee and book blogger Amy Guth.

In these troubled economic times, everyone needs a little cheering. I hope this funny video helps you start your week off with a smile!

Love,

Candace :)