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!

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!)

CELEBS AND FASHION RULE IN BRYANT PARK!

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in NY was sooooo incredibly exciting! It seemed like everyone in the world was there! We were invited to preview Pamella Roland’s Spring 2010

Collection in Bryant Park and my new friend, NY Housewife, Alex McCord, also invited us to attend Walter Baker’s show at Style 360. He is a dear friend of hers and we were in the front row with lots of paparazzi! It was a blast! Even Chuck had a great time! Walter’s fashions were chic, youthful and oh-so

stylish! The first model on the runway was Somalian supermodel Ubah Hassan. She also appeared in the Oscar de la Renta show and was featured in the first all-black issue of Italian Vogue shot by Steven Meisel. She

was one of the best looking (and sweetest) models we saw all week! For the finale, all of the models came out blowing bubbles out of Swarovski crystal-encrusted bottles. It was adorable!

From the Walter Baker show, we went to Bryant Park to wait for the Pamella Roland show to begin at 1 p.m. While we waited, we saw Carine Roitfeld (editor-in-chief of French Vogue) and Ken Downing (Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus) along with LOTS of very well-dressed fashionistas and zillions of photogs rushing through the tents including

Patrick Cunningham of the New York Time’s weekly “On the Street” pictorial. These shows are everything you’ve heard about and more and I was so thrilled to be there! The hottest looks I saw were strappy booties and platform shoes without heels!

How can they even walk on their toes like this?! I’ll never know! As we lined up for Pamella’s show, there were throngs of people going to the line marked “Standing Room Only.” We felt very grateful to

have our tickets in hand. We had to wait while the photographers all got their pre-event photos and then we were allowed in. I’ve never seen so much press in my life! It was surreal…everywhere you looked, there were celebrities! Lisa Rinna was there in a

hot, short red dress with a great haircut. Nicky Hilton was there but didn’t want to sit next to anyone who wasn’t famous so there was a bit of juggling in the front row until Abby Manning (Eli Manning’s wife) agreed to sit next to her. Nigel Barker, famous judge/photographer on "America’s Next Top Model," was there looking very handsome and very TALL! We also saw J.

Alexander who is the quirky runway coach on "America’s Next Top Model." I was also told that Toni Braxton, Amanda Bynes and Paris Hilton were there (I didn’t see them)

and that Courtney Love showed up for the Narciso Rodriguez show in a very sorry state. And it seems like everywhere I go, I run into one or more of the NY Housewives! (Maybe this is a good omen for me!) Seated across from us were Bethany Frankel, the

Countess (LuAnn de Lesseps) and Kelly Bensimon. The first thing I noticed was how tallllllll they all were too! (As you can see from the photo, I look like I’m standing in a hole next to them….) Then the lights went

out and Pamella’s show began. I have four words for the fashions shown: I WANT THEM ALL!! It seemed like every look brought the crowd to their feet—it was beyond thrilling! From daytime to evening, there was some sense of drama in every outfit…very, very chic and very wearable at the same time with luscious colors and florals inspired by the paintings of Georgia O’Keeffe. There were beaded gowns, chiffons, metallics and pale tweeds—

all simply chic and elegant. At the end of the show Pamella brought her darling children, Cassandra, Sydney and Cole De Vos, up on stage for the runway walk…it was magic time! (Cassandra and Sydney appear in all of her ads that are out now looking

very high fashion and gorgeous). Later that evening, we were all invited to the after-party on Pamella’s family yacht, the Seaquest. This ship – and I do mean SHIP – is 164 feet long with three decks. For this evening, her fashion show was being projected onto the stern of the boat. It was so cool and such an unexpected touch. The party was small and intimate and we felt privileged to have been invited. Chuck and I went to NY with Helen Melchior and

the Executive Director of the Joffrey Ballet, Christopher Clinton Conway and we had such a great time. This after-party really capped off a whirlwind of activities. Pamella

and her family couldn’t have been more gracious and I am so happy to see a woman who is not only successful and talented but so down to earth as well. I am thrilled she will be the main feature for our Couture & Cocktails

event for the Joffrey this Friday evening at the Palmer House. Pamella and Neiman Marcus will be bringing this same show to Chicago that we saw in NY for Fashion Week and it is not to be missed! If you haven’t bought a ticket yet, there is still time! Tickets start at

$250 and include the fashion show, live and silent auctions, after- party with world famous DJ Donna D’Cruz (who just played at

Diddy’s party in St. Tropez) and LOTS of fun food! The VIP ticket is $500 and includes the celeb-filled pre-party in Lockwood starting at 6:30 p.m. Giuliana and Bill Rancic will be there along with many other surprise guests. Call 312-386-8921 for tickets or you can buy them at the door. I hope to see you all there!!!
 

The rest of the week in NY wasn’t too shabby either! We went to the Waverly Inn for dinner (Graydon Carter’s charming West

Village restaurant) and Elle MacPherson was there (again VERY tall with LOTS of hair!) and at Cipriani Downtown, LeBron James (the massive forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers) was there. His bodyguard was a pitbull so I wasn’t able to bring back a pic of him. Let’s just say, next to Shaq, he’s the biggest man I’ve ever seen.  
 

We were also lucky enough to catch Maria Pinto’s dramatic installation at Banchet in the Meat Packing District. As we pulled up, the entire building was bathed in a deep purple glow

with people milling about inside and out. There were lots of press and Katie Couric had just given Maria a great plug on CBS so everyone was very happy! Adding even more drama to her already gorgeous clothes were Charles Lord,

her longtime hair stylist, along with Riccardo Santiago, Nikia Smith, Nelson Serrano and Eneida Bailey (Gayle King’s hairstylist) who did the hair so dramatically and creative it made you gasp! Maria’s sponsors on the invite included Aandrea Carter, Kath Carter, Les Coney (who was there with his handsome buddy Marc

Brooks), Pam Crutchfield, Barbara Franke, Barbara Levy Kipper, Rose Lizarraga, Noelle Nikpour, Julie and Randy Richardson, Gail Waller and Tim Schwertfeger and Susan and Robert Wislow. I was so happy to see Maria showing in NY! Congrats and good luck Maria!! The designs were gorgeous and Lisa Marie McComb, her stylist, looked as chic as the models! Guests in attendance from Chicago included Les Coney, Donna Thompson, Stacey Jones and Emmanuel Nony. For more photos from this amazing trip, click here!
 

On Thursday, September 24th, come celebrate Blogapalooza from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the 900 Shops and presented by Chicago Now. There will be complimentary spirits, food and wine and you will get a chance to meet the Chicago Now bloggers stationed throughout 900 N. Michigan’s

selected retailers and restaurants. There will be how-to advice, a DJ, food samples, special values and raffle prizes. I will be at Montblanc and would love to meet all of the Chicago Now fans!! Ashley Bond of “Body by Bond” and David Wallach of “Pace of Chicago” will be giving tips on working

out and staying healthy at Equinox and Matt Lo Cascio of “Jay Cutler Superstar” and Julie DiCaro of “A League of Her Own” will meet, greet and talk Chicago sports with special treats for guests. For more info and to check out all of the bloggers who will be there, click here. As you can see, there will be something for everyone!

What a time we had in the city that never sleeps! I hope you all felt like you were there with me! Stay tuned for next week's Candid Candace when I take you to an exclusive VIP party in

the Peninsula Suite celebrating the genius of Annie Leibovitz, Francine Turk's one-woman show, Common Threads' recent fun-filled party, opening night of "Zero" at the Victory Gardens, CS's 15-year anniversary party, Chicago Now's Blogapalooza AND Couture & Cocktails coverage. Whew...I'm tired already!

Thanks for tuning in!

Love,

Candace :) 

(If you would like to contact me or be added to my blog alert list, please e-mail me at candace@candidcandace.com.)

CHICAGO LOVES NY HOUSEWIFE ALEX McCORD!

Almost 200 friends and fans showed up on a rainy night at Second Time Around (located at 823 W. Armitage) to congratulate Bravo’s New York Housewife Alex McCord on her first venture into Chicago. The Moet flowed as the store filled with guests…..finally, the clouds broke and everyone spilled out onto the street. It was a happy mix of people with many finding some great buys at this upscale consignment store. Toni Canada found a hot pair of hiking/biker boots for her sister, Celeb TV and event co-host Kelli Zink was disappointed the Brian Atwood patent heels didn’t fit and Rikki Ragland-Marver found a turquoise dress that we both had our hands on (it was too small for me anyway). All in all, there was something for everyone. The owners, Susan and Jeff Casler, were very pleased to be in Chicago and were already scouting more locations in Evanston. The concept started in Boston and now has 19 stores, with this one being their first outside of the East Coast. I asked Susan Casler how she came to use Alex as her spokesperson and her answer was surprising and a sign of the times. “I found her on Facebook,” said Susan. “She had just been let go from her job at Victoria’s Secret and I had been following her on the show. She won me over.” After Susan saw a scene of Alex’s closet on the show, she thought “This woman needs to get to a consignment store!” Alex also gave me some advice as a housewife wannabe: “Be as authentic as you can. That’s what the audience relates to. Be prepared to give up control. And you also can’t worry about what anyone thinks of you. They splice lines together that don’t necessarily mean what you say. Sometimes you get a good cut and sometimes you get a bad cut.” I told her yeah but the money must make it all worthwhile, right? She said, “The money isn’t as much as people think.” I’d still be willing to give it a try! A unique aspect of this consignment store is the fact that you can have your proceeds donated to your favorite charity. There is also a tracking system that alerts the consignor when your item sells. Co-hosts for the event were Celeb TV’s Kelli Zink, Ryan Preuett and moi! Event sponsors were Michigan Avenue Magazine, Moet Champagne and Belvedere Black Raspberry. The Entertaining Company provided tasty hors d’oeuvres and the cameras were rolling: Lee Ann Trotter brought her NBC 5 crew, Catie Keough interviewed for 24/7 and Kelli Zink was there from Celeb TV. The guest list included Heather Farley, 24/7 producer Jeff Conway, Scott Mclellan, Robbie Martin, Toni Canada, Bonnie and Chuck Gross, Kimberly Gleeson, Steve Stryker, Estrella Rosenberg, Sandy Stephen, Jaremy Lewno, Hadley Eblen, Christa Opsal, Rikki-Ragland Marver (who had done a slew of recent interviews since she had worked for the late Ted Kennedy), Cammie Bridges, Michelle Barone, Brenda Swauger, Patrick Plante, Chareen Goodman, Howie Green, Dina Lisser-Nanberg, Brenda Arelano, Frank Krug, Kim Pfeiffer, Jessica Zweig, Nico Rodriguez, Freida Lee Gaye, Lynne Bredfeldt, Rhonda Sanderson, Samantha Amato, Mich Mag’s Dan Uslan, Marybeth Brandabur, CFO Howie Green, D.C. Crenshaw and Sandy Caspariello among others. Welcome to Chicago, Second Time Around! (Fab Fotos by Caitlin Saville) :) Photos from top right: with Alex and co-hosts Ryan Pruett and Kelli Zink; Kelli Zink, Jessica Zweig and Kim Peiffer; owners Jeff and Susan Casler; Alex, Lee Ann Trotter, me and Catie Keough; Toni Canada and Heather Farley; Alex and Dan Uslan; Rikki Ragland-Marver and LeAnita Ragland-Brooks; 24/7's Jeff Conway and Sandy Caspariello; Kimberly Gleeson, Steve Stryker and Estrella Rosenberg; Brenda Swauger and Chareen Goodman; Scott Mclellan, me Robbie Martin and Christa Opal; Jeremy Lewno and Hadley Eblen; Lynne Bredfeldt; Bonnie and Chuck Gross; Alex being interviewed by NBC 5's Lee Ann Trotter; Cammie Bridges and CFO Howie Green. Click here for more photos from this event!
 
Plans are ramping up for the Joffrey Ballet’s “Couture & Cocktails” on Friday, Sept. 25th at the Palmer House. Co-founder Helen Melchior, Food Chair Ann Waters and I had an incredible tasting last week and let me just tell you, you have not seen or tasted anything like this before! Executive chef Stephen Henry and senior sous chefs Oscar Castio and David Perez have really stepped outside of the box to make the menu for "Couture & Cocktails" not only uber tasty but ultra exciting as well! I can’t tell you everything—I want you to be surprised!—but there will be a different menu in each of the locations for the event starting with the VIP Reception in Lockwood Restaurant. Here the offerings will be upscale and hearty with a wonderful variety which will include sushi, surprising Indian dishes, lobster, beef tenderloin and more. For the Fashion Show segment, guests will be treated to numerous passed hors d’oeuvres and for the dance segment in the Red Lacquer Room (where international DJ Donna D’Cruz will be!) there will be even more fun creations involving comfort food (our signature for C & C) and a unique sweet station which is an award winning creation unique to the Palmer House. There is much, much more but like I said—it’s a surprise! Check out this link of our DJ, Donna, in St. Tropez with Diddy! C & C is going to rock like never before! Our live auction will be incredible too and I want to share with you some of the packages so far:
 
1) A trip for two via private Netjet to NY for the VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW! This includes prime seating and exclusive entrance to the celeb-filled after-party AND a meet-and-greet with one of the Angels in the show! 
2) Business class airfare for two to the Peninsula’s newest jewel in Shanghai AND Hong Kong!!
3) Business class airfare for two to NY for front row seats to Pamella Roland’s Bryant Park Fashion Show, this package also includes theatre tickets to "Billy Elliot" and "Superior Donuts" and much, much more!
4) One-week stay in Deer Valley in a fantastic mansion.
5) Private dinner for 50 in the majestic lobby of the Palmer House–this also includes a weekend in their top-ranked Penthouse!
6) Van Cleef and Arpels Alhambra diamond-encrusted evening watch.
7) Three-hour champagne/lunch cruise aboard a luxury Hinckley yacht.
8) Opening night tickets for two to the Joffrey Ballet’s "Othello" on Oct. 14th, includes dinner at the exclusive Director’s Dinner, premiere performance tickets and a backstage tour.
9) Weekend stay for three couples at the Elysian in three Premier Gold Coast Suites, a private dinner for six and one-hour massages for all six guests.
10) Private summer soiree for 12 which will include a cocktail/hors d’oeuvre party in the gorgeous Old Town Art Deco penthouse owned by world-renowned orchestra leader, Stanley Paul. This is one of the most photographed homes in Chicago and is breathtaking.
11) Private dance class for EIGHT taught by handsome principal Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels!
 
And this is just a SAMPLING! Hope to see you all there…..what will you be wearing? There will be tons of press so come “camera ready”!!!! :) For more info and to purchase tickets, call Julia Jankowski at 312-386-8921. Photos from top left: "Couture and Cocktails" invitation cover; executive chef Stephen Henry with senior sous chefs Oscar Castio and David Perez; food from our tasting; DJ Donna D'Cruz; Victoria's Secret Angels; Shanghai at night; Pamella Roland design; Van Cleef and Arpels watch; Hinckley yacht; "Othello"; Premier Gold Coast Suite at the Elysian; Fabrice teaching; Stanley Paul's terrace feature. For more photos, click here!
 
I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak of the Elysian (begun in 2004) and it is a truly gorgeous property. When I toured it, I thought it evoked memories of Paris and sure enough, the designer is Lucien LaGrange which explained everything. The lobby is unforgettable and sets the tone for the entire hotel. Located at 11 E. Walton in the heart of the Gold Coast, the Elysian will set a new standard in luxury in a sophisticated Art Deco setting. It features 188 guest rooms (prices begin at $395), 52 private guest residences (only four remain for sale starting at $3.8 million), two restaurants (Balsan and Ria), a bar (Bernard’s), 4,500 square feet of function space and a 14,000-square-foot health club and spa. As if this weren’t enough, 90 percent of the guest rooms have gas fireplaces and terraces. World-class chef Jason McLeod oversees the kitchen and its crack staff. The tasting was incredible and included wood-fired homemade pizzas and a wonderful Wagyu beef demonstration. They even can their own jams! Founder/CEO David Pisor has hit a home run here for sure and has the perfect VP of sales in Joe Aguilera! Another investor is Mario Tricoci, Jr. who was rightfully proud of this gorgeous property. Lucky guests attending this exclusive preview party included Brenda Sexton (our hostess with the mostest), Linda Johnson Rice, Neal Zucker, Chaz Ebert, Sonya Jackson, Mickey Norton, Carrie Birkel and her mom Amy Hogan, Joe D. Lauck, Eileen Sweeney, Jan Melk, Grace Puma, Nancy Dalaska, Julee White, Stanley Paul and Les Coney and his handsome son Javon. The hotel is due to open this fall. Photos from top left: Julee White, sommelier Dan Pilkey, Chaz Ebert and Brenda Sexton; Director of Food & Beverage Attila Gyulai, founder CEO David Pisor, GM of Ria Louis Hickner and Chef de Cuisine Justin Cogley; grand entryway; Waygu beef demonstration for Linda Johnson Rice, Neal Zucker and Chaz Ebert; Linda Johnson Rice and Neal Zucker in Ria; Grace Puma and Sonya Jackson; Amy Hogan and Carrie Birkel; Les Coney and his son Javon; investor Mario Tricoci Jr. For more photos from this memorable evening, click here!
 
Fifteen years ago, legendary restaurateur Rich Melman joined forces with a group of local L.A.-based Chicago actors, comics, directors and studio heads to help create the first “Windy City West” reunion party. They flocked to Ed Debevic’s to hang out with their buddies and talk about their favorite city: Chicago. Thanks to Brenda Sexton (who produced this event twice when she was head of the Illinois Film Office in 2004 and 2005) and Rich Melman’s sons, RJ and Jerrod, this event will be revised at their newest restaurant in Santa Monica, La Grande Orange, on September 21st! It will be televised and Tom Dreesen, an original founding member, will once again be the evening’s emcee. Other notables expected to attend include Joe Mantegna, Jim Belushi, Jeremy Piven, Bonnie Hunt, Chris O’Donnell, Robert Zemeckis and Nia Vardalos. The mission of this reunion is to encourage these influential alums in LA to bring their production business back home. The event is by invitation only and full but the Sun-Times, an event sponsor, is running a contest and the lucky winner will get two tickets to the party, airfare and a two-night stay at Shutters! This contest ends at midnight on Wednesday night so click on www.suntimes.com/win and good luck! If you DON’T win, the Elysian will be hosting the premiere party of this TV special on October 27th so stay tuned to CandidCandace for more details! Photos from top left: Jerrod and RJ Melman; "Little Miss Sunshine" producer Albert Berger with Brenda Sexton and Harold Ramis; David Schwimmer and Jeff Levine; Nia Vardalos.
 
Well, I have so much more to tell you but it will just have to wait unless you want to drink some Red Bull! I have enjoyed my week-long stay-cation but I have missed writing to you and telling you about all of the things that make Chicago great! Until next time, enjoy this adorable video of my girlfriend Tanya Robinson’s unbelievably cute daughter Amartya! I think she is ready for her spot on "Dancing with the Stars"—except SHE is the star NOW! 
 
Love and missed you,
Candace :)
 
(BTW, sad news to report…..Nate and Brian are no longer an item….they were the cutest couple on the planet. I am so sad.) Photo: Nate Berkus and Brian Atwood in happier times.

SERVICE CLUB’S “DAY ON THE TERRACE” FASHION SHOW BEST EVER!

Thirty-five years ago, the “Day on the Terrace” consisted of sandwiches and lemonade and was created by Hazel Barr as a get-together for members of the Service Club of Chicago. As Hazel remarked, “we just sat there.” And since we all know Hazel is not one to just “sit there,” she planned something different along the way…the next event included a fashion show around someone’s glorious pool which proved to be a lot more exciting. It was so exciting and well received; in fact, that it grew and grew to become what it is today…..one of the best fashion shows around. It all began with a fortuitous lunch at RL in 1999. Hazel was sitting with a group of friends when in walked Greg Hyder, the catering director for the Peninsula. The hotel was just going up and Greg wanted Hazel to don a hard hat and come take a look. She immediately zeroed in on the terrace and told Greg, “I want to be the first one to have a fashion show there.” And the rest, as they say, is history. On Monday, August 3rd, Hazel chaired one of the best fashion shows around using a multitude of talented designers and top-of- the-line retailers. The show has now moved indoors which makes it a lot cooler for sure and this year show producer/member Tracy Tarantino even called for a rehearsal! The first one ever as I recall and it made all the difference. Everyone was more relaxed and knew exactly what they needed to do. The table décor, as always, was by the fabulous Tom Kehoe and the event co-chairs were Sherry Valukas and Felicia Winiecki. Greg Hyder’s scrumptious menu plan included chilled cucumber gazpacho with baby romaine and veggie salad with Greek yogurt and dill dressing, crispy seared chicken and a “twisted” carrot cake for dessert. The event was perfect from beginning to end. Eighteen designers and retailers showed their incredible collections to wild applause. Participants included J. Mendel, Maria Pinto, Ralph Lauren Kids, Paul Stewart, Dismero, Escada, Luca Luca, Macy’s 28 Shop, Loreta Corsetti, Quinton D’Alexander, Sylwia, Yolanda Lorente, Contessa Bottega, 5p1t, Elizabeth M, Lulu’s at the Belle Kay, Neiman Marcus and Starr Couture. Happy guests included JoAnn Nathan, Deirdre Nardi, Dori Wilson, Peggy Lombardo, Kathy Piccone, Diana Chavez, Ray Drymalski, Bonni Gross, Beverly Blettner, Zarada Gowenlock and Marci Holzer. Male models for the Paul Stuart segment were David Brandt, Greg Hyder, Tom Kehoe, Bill Martay, Stanley Paul, Skip Grisham and Jerry Lasky. The Service Club of Chicago was founded in 1890 and is one of the oldest philanthropic organizations in the city. Every dollar raised goes directly to local charities. For more information, visit

www.serviceclubofchicago.org. (Extra event photos by John Reilly Photography, Steve Starr, Teresa Potasiak and John McMahan.) Photos from top right: Suzanne LeMignot and Yvette Cusack; Gerri Shute, Kristina McGrath, Rebecca Besser and Toni Canada; Felecia Winiecki, Hazel Barr, Mary Lasky and Martha Wallace; Wendy Krimmins, Tina Koegel and Ann Wallace; Sharyl Mackey, Mary Pat Burns and Laura Foxman; SC President Peggy Martay, Dusty Stemer and Holly Barr; Lori Daniels, Stacie McClane and Cindy Burns; Quentin Schumacher and Sherrill Bodine in LuLu's at the Belle Kay; Lynn McMahan and Susanna Negovan; Cheryl Bollinger with designer Elizabeth M; Tom Kehoe and Jean Antoniou; Bunky Cushing with Ralph Lauren Kids; Sheryl Dyer, Sylwia and Cindy Mancillas; Kristina McGrath and Sherry Valukas. For more photos from this memorable event, click here!
 
Brenda Sexton scored another coup hosting the premier of one of the most entertaining films around, “Julie & Julia.” Even though Roger Ebert gave this film only 2 ½ stars, I think it’s much more deserving of 3 ½. Not only does it include the top actress of our time, Meryl Streep, but she also channels Julia Child seamlessly and with astounding accuracy. And let’s talk about the food scenes! OMG! Believe me, you come away starving hungry from this film so be forewarned. The movie’s food stylist, Susan Spungen, said this was the hardest she’s had to work on a film since the food was, in fact, a co-star. Food in films in the past have relied on half-cooked turkeys coated with motor oil, ice cream carved from Crisco and fruit made of plastic. In this film, not only did the food have to be believable, it had to be Julia Child-worthy which was no small feat. Julia Child’s first lunch in Paris centered around Dover sole expertly prepared swimming in butter sauce and, as she wrote in her memoir, it was “the most exciting meal of my life.”  You will agree when you see Streep’s appreciation of the dish. This film will send you rushing to the kitchen to look for your dusty copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Bon appétit! Over a dozen top chefs as well as numerous foodies enjoyed the film and also the wonderful after-party at Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store at the Medinah Temple. Top chefs included Gale Gand and Rick Tramonto (Tru), Carrie Nahabedian (Naha), Stephanie Izard (winner of Bravo’s Top Chef), Shelley Young (Chopping Block), Bruno Abate (Tocco & Follia), Mindy Segal (Hot Chocolate), Suzy Crofton, (Crofton on Wells), Rick Gresh (Primehouse), Kevin Hickey (Four Seasons and Mary Beth Licconi (Les Nomades). Other guests included Christie Hefner, Billy Marovitz, Linda Johnson Rice and darling daughter Alexa, Sun-Times CEO Jeremy Halbrech and Publisher John Barron, Bloomie’s VP of Marketing and GM Carolyn Edward, NBC’s LeeAnn Trotter, CBS’s Suzanne LeMignot, Chamber of Commerce head Jerry Roper, Common Threads’ Linda O’Keefe, Robin Berger, Dan Uslan, Pat Brickhouse, Shia Kapos, Neil Kirby, Susan Ellefson, Bryan Kurtz, Kimberly Burt, Peggy Lanigan, Susanna Negovan, Tiffani Kim and Brad Griffith, Ken Cook, Renee Ferguson, Debbie Marchese, Diane and Sandy Whiteley and Margaret O’Connor and Michael O’Meara. (Expert pics by Mitchell Canoff.) Photos from top right: Mary Beth Liccioni and Gale Gand; Renee Ferguson and LeeAnn Trotter; Christie Hefner, Billy Marovitz, Joan Steele and Bruno Abate; Debbie Marchese, Marijo Gordon and Gale Leahy; John Barron, Tiffani Kim and Brad Griffith; Brenda Sexton and Ken Cook; with Linda O'Keefe of Common Threads; Linda and Nick O'Keefe, Wei Fraser and Amanda Puck; Susan Ellefson and Diane Whitley; Dan Tucker (Sushi Samba Rio chef); with Bruno Abate; Jerry Roper, Erin Walsh, Neil Kirby and Brenda Sexton.
 
This year’s Glamourcon promises to be one of the best ever thanks to the first-time participation of numerous Playboy Playmates! Appearing for the first time at this event at the Crowne Plaza O’Hare on Saturday and Sunday, August 15th and 16th, are Patti Connors (1977 Playmate of the Year), Sondra Theodore (July 1977 Playmate and Hef’s former girlfriend), Sylvie Garant (November 1979), Ida Ljungvist (2009 Playmate of the Year), Laura Lyons (February 1976) and Monica Tidwell (November 1973 and the primary producer of the off-Broadway hit “Mind Game”). Other Playmates attending are Summer Altice (August 2000), Cassandra Lynn (February 2006), Tiffany Taylor (November 1998), DeDe Lind (August 1967), Cathy St. George (August 1982) and Dolores Del Monte (one of the first original Playmates from March 1954). This will be like a Playmate Reunion for me since I was a bunny in Chicago with Laura Lyons, did numerous Playmate promotions with Sylvie Garant and one of my BFFs is Patti! We can’t wait to get together and reminisce about our days in the Hutch and our Playmate years. This is the 47th Glamourcon and has been run expertly from coast to coast by Bob Schultz. The event is celebrity driven and features dozens of Playboy Playmates from five decades as well as many other past and present glamour and pin up models. Glamourcon runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday—hope to see you there!!! For more info, visit http://www.glamourcon.com/shows.html. (BTW, a recent “tweet” from Hef: “Had a further conversation with son Cooper who is interested in a future with Playboy after college.” I hope Cooper has his pipe polished! Photos from top right: Patti McGuire Connors; Playmate Sondra Theodore with Hef; Candace Collins Jordan (hey, that's me!); Cathy St. George; Laura Lyons; Playmate of the Year Ida Ljungvist; Marston and Cooper Hefner. For a preview of some more Glamourcon 2009 attendees, click here!
 
And now more news from my gallivanting friends! Joffrey Women’s Board President, Christine Ott, just spent a delightful weekend in the Hamptons with her book club friends. They flew there in style aboard a private jet and had a great time as the photo attests! Welcome back COS! Photo: Kathy Iatarola, Denise Favia, Julie Floodstrand, Christine Ott and Terry Ryan. 
 
We’re counting down to the Joffrey’s Couture & Cocktails event! It’s 45 days until the main event! Get your tickets now for VIP seating! Call Julia at 312-386-8921. :) Photo: Couture & Cocktails invite.

That’s all for this week! Hope you’re enjoying the hot, hot days of summer and I will leave you with some delightful scenes of Michigan this past weekend...
 
Love,
Candace :)

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!!!!

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 :)

STEPPENWOLF’S OPENING NIGHT AND CAST PARTY!

The lobby was packed at the Steppenwolf Theatre Sunday evening, June 28th, so I knew I was in for something special. I always am impressed when I attend Steppenwolf and this night was no exception. They concluded their season of the imagination (every season has a theme) with “Up”, a new play by Bridget Carpenter, directed by ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro. It’s based on the true story of Larry Walters who in 1982, realized his dream of flying by attaching 45 helium balloons to a lawn chair. He flew to an altitude of 16,000 feet until his balloons began losing gas and he headed toward the earth. He was saved in his plummet by the interception of trees and his story became a sensation. (Disney also has a four-star 3-D movie with the same title based on this same topic.) The play is particularly relevant now with the state of the economy because it’s also about the pursuit of wealth. The main character is Walter Griffin who is brilliantly played by Ian Barford. He wants to be a dreamer/inventor and nothing else—his wife is a postal worker and the only bread winner and worrier. Their 15-year-old son, Mikey (played by Jake Cohen), sees the tension and wants to help and almost succeeds….almost. There is also a character based on true life French wire-walker Phillippe Petit played by Tony Hernandez. The way he’s utilized in the show is sheer genius. I won’t say the play is “up-lifting” but I will say it makes you think. The artistic director Martha Lavey, who also is a key character in the play, compares the theme to the story of Icarus. She says, “To escape the labyrinth in which they had been ensnared, Icarus’ father, Daedalus, constructs wings of wax and he and Icarus fly toward freedom. Daedalus warns his son to fly a ‘middle course’ over the sea because flying too high would risk melting the wings in the heat of the sun. Icarus, exhilarated by his flight, ignores his father and, true to father’s warning, the wings melt and he is plunged into the sea.” This play is about that balance: Soar too high for the thrills or stay the middle course for safety. How it ends is another story… Seen on opening night were Maureen and E.B. Smith, Jan Melk, Grace Barry, sponsor David Herro, Carol Prins, ensemble member John Mahoney, John Hart, Chris Long, Christine Ott and Governor Pat Quinn. The cast party was at Adobo Grill in Wicker Park. They closed off the restaurant and the margaritas were flowing. The cast was all there and it was a very festive atmosphere. I was thrilled to be there and so happy to see such a vibrant theater scene in our beloved town. Thanks to the individual production sponsors of “Up”:  Hope Abelson Fund for New Play Development; Richard and Mary L. Gray Production Endowment Fund and David Herro and Jay Franke. Don’t miss it! The play runs through August 23rd. For tickets and more info go to www.steppenwolf.org. Photos from top right: Jan Melk and executive director and neighbor David Hawkanson; featured actor Ian Barford; sponsor David Herro and Grace Barry; Rachel Brosnahan who plays Maria; Carol Prins and John Hart; John Mahoney and me; actor Tony Hernandez; actor Jake Cohen; Christine Ott, Jan Melk and Chris Long.

Gibson’s Restaurant held a 20th anniversary party on Monday and Tuesday, June 29th and 30th, and everybody came – 5,000 people to be exact! They used their original menus from 1989 and the prices (ranging from $1- $24) and selections took everyone back in time. Co-owner Peggy Lombardo said everything was original except for the desserts since they didn’t have a pastry chef back then. The evening held a special memory for us since we held our wedding rehearsal dinner there almost to the day. I remember at the time, some people didn’t think they would make it. Boy, were they wrong! There were so many familiar faces and so much table hopping that the servers had a tough time keeping track of their customers. Original supporter Jack McHugh was there with his gorgeous wife Brenda and long-time friend Jimmy O’Brien. Jack had helped start their extensive photo gallery when he donated his photos from his popular Four Torches Restaurant. All of the great pics of Sinatra are his since they were “pallies.” The “Hostess with the Mostest” Kathy O’Malley was in her element. Everyone there was a friend of hers and it made the party all the more exciting and fun. (On a side note, come join us Tuesday evening when we celebrate Kathy’s birthday at Prosecco Ristorante from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. RSVP via e-mail to Jennifer@proseccoristorante.com.) Other fun-loving guests included Mayor Daley, Judge Ann Burke and Alderman Ed Burke, Mike Wilkie, Dori Wilson, Joy Germont, Judd Malkin, Jimmy Damon, Susan and Bruce MacArthur, Gene McCaffrey, Linda Johnson Rice, Neal Zucker, Mr. and Mrs. Rocky Wirtz, Marty and Jack Higgins, Tina and Jeff Weller, Hugo Ralli, Jim Borges, Mike Ditka, Gail and Bruce Mertz, Joli Burrell, Chaz Ebert, Judi Regal, Gabriella and Don Weisberg, Lori and Don Schroud, Jim Riley, Connor Riley, Doug Buffone, Dennis Fitzsimons, Diana and Michael Scott, Cheryl Larson and Robert Murphy, Shari and Jerry Michaels, Bonni and Chuck Gross, Alexi Giannoulias, Whitey Pearson, Julie and Fred Latsko, Lou Canellis, Terry Newman, Nadine and Ira Epstein, Hedwig and Bob Golant and Walter Glass among others. Rocky Wirtz and Bruce MacArthur presented Steve Lombardo with a Blackhawks jersey with the name Gibson’s and the number 20 on the back. Kathy wouldn’t let it out of her hands and you’ll see it prominently displayed there soon. A HUGE congrats to all of the incredible people who make Gibson’s as special as it is. It’s no wonder celebs from around the world make it their destination restaurant in Chicago. With waiters like Mohammed receiving $4,000 tips from Johnny Depp, well, you get the picture! Love you all and we were so happy to share in your wonderful anniversary party!!!! No one wanted to leave… Photos from top left: Kathy O'Malley and Steve Lombardo; the gorgeous Gibson girls; the world's greatest waitstaff; Alexi Giannoulias, Kathy O'Malley, Dough Buffone, me and John Colletti; Brenda and Jack McHugh and Jimmy O'Brien; Peaches and Voula; Kathy with the Gibson's jersey; Dori Wilson and Joy Germont; Alexi Giannoulias and Ira Epstein; me and Kathy; Kathy and Lou Canellis; Jim Riley, Mike Wilkie and Whitey Pearson. For more photos from this memorable event, click here!
 
There were 250 floats in this year’s Gay Pride Parade and they had to turn requests away!! Gay Pride 2009 was the biggest parade so far in its 40-year history and Jim Flint and his Baton Show Lounge have been there from day one! I was so honored to be asked to ride on their float this year! It was a thrill of a lifetime plus I’ve never seen crowds like it! There were around 600,000 people along the route, everyone smiling and happy to be there. Senate hopeful Alexi Giannoulias was behind our float and Jim announced his name all along the parade route. It was a completely mixed crowd and the weather was perfect! This year’s first transgendered grand marshal, actress Alexandra Billings, said, “This parade isn’t just for us—the parade is for everybody. Everyone needs to live in their joy and really celebrate what it’s like to be free. That’s what the parade is all about.” Six hundred thousand- plus onlookers obviously agreed! Thanks to Jim Flint, Ginger Grant, Mimi Marks, Sheri Payne, Maya Douglas, Sasha Colby, Victoria LePaige, Miss Continental Elite Michelle Fighter, Miss Continental Plus CoCo Van Cartier and Monica Monroe for letting me ride along. Check out more fantastic photos here! Speaking of Monica, Thursday night was her final performance as a Baton regular. She will be marrying her boyfriend Nebil and moving to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Her farewell song by Lily Allen had everyone in stitches. Good luck Monica!!! Relive her final performance here! Photos from top left: crowds along the parade route; Baton Show Lounge float; Maya Douglas, Miss Continental Plus CoCo Van Cartier, me, Sasha Colby, Mimi Marks and Monica Monroe; cheerleading squad; Miss Continental Elite Michelle Fighter; Monica's last performance. 

The premier of “Public Enemies” presented by Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions was VERY well attended! The all-male host list was very clever and indeed, there were more men in the audience than usual. Johnny Depp shows everyone why he is the superstar that he is but it was disappointing not to be able to recognize more scenes of Chicago. Even though Michael Mann filmed the entire movie here, there were only a couple of spots we recognized. Also, a little too much Tommy gun action for me but regardless, this is a must-see movie and was very entertaining overall. Some of it was filmed near our house in Old Town and the attention to detail was amazing—gluing ivy on buildings and covering up fire hydrants. The after-party was held at the Saks Men’s Store and was catered by Gibson’s. Thanks again for a terrific evening Brenda!  (Additional photos by Mitchell Canoff!) Photos from top left: "Public Enemies" marker; Brenda Sexton with Bulls legend Bob "Butterbean" Love; Rich Rinella, Laura Ludovic, Denis John Healy and Jennifer Healy; Jonathan Landan, Tiffani McDuffie and Andrew Landan; Rita and Scott George.
 
More birthday wishes to send out! My dear friend and Pilates instructor extraordinaire Heidi Milby and her partner Hector Lopez, celebrated her 30th and his 40th on Saturday night, June 20th at their River West Fitness Studio located at 664 W. Hubbard. All of their many friends and supporters were there! Happy, happy Heidi and Hector! Another dear friend and man-about-town Greg Hyder celebrated his birthday in style at RL Restaurant on Thursday, July 2nd, with the LQ Lunch Bunch which included John Regas, David Brandt, Sheryl Dyer, Hazel Barr and moi! It was a great time! We love Greg and every time you’re with him, he makes the occasion VERY memorable!!! Photos from top right: Hector Lopez, Heidi Milby and her parents Marty and PD Milby; David Brandt, John Regas, Sheryl Dyer, Hazel Barr, me and Greg Hyder.
 
That’s it for this week! Hope you all had a very happy 4th of July and I hope our binge eating was worth it!!! Check this video out and remember why we were celebrating… Photo: Corinne Melchior's flag cake.
 
Love,
Candace :)

HAROLD RAMIS CHARMS CHICAGO FANS

Besides being the nicest guy among the Hollywood set, he’s also the bravest! Harold Ramis stood up before an audience invited to the screening of his latest film, “Year One”, who were clearly not the target group for this movie as he pointed out. He said his film’s demographics were directed more towards 20-year-old males and yet, here we were. He was disappointed in its opening and this Q & A came right on the heels of Roger Ebert’s one star review. He was brave, very brave and very kind, honest, funny and smart. He answered everyone’s questions and seemingly took a photo with everyone there. The evening was planned by event planner extraordinaire Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions and it was a delight! Before the movie started, Harold said, “You are exactly NOT the demographic for this movie….I will be drinking while you’re watching this film.” His self-deprecating humor was a breath of fresh air in an arena of too many puffed-up egos. Even though the film has brought in close to $21 million, it still hasn’t met his expectations. He jokingly said he should put “AIR CONDITIONING” in really big letters in the ads like the old days to bring more people in. “Year One” was filmed in Sibley, La. in 13 weeks on a 6½ acre set constructed entirely out of Styrofoam. There were lots of funny moments and Chuck and I laughed at times so hard we had tears running down our cheeks. So even though we weren’t the target, we still thoroughly enjoyed it. Harold describes “Year One” as an abstract theme played out with adolescent comedy. The event was also to honor and celebrate Flashpoint Academy’s first graduating class. Howard Tullman gave a talk and presented a video recounting Flashpoint’s many achievements and his cameras were there to record the evening’s festivities. The after party was at the Wit Hotel which is also celebrating its first year in business. The evening was a night of firsts—“Year One” for a first year class in a year old hotel….very clever Brenda! Richard Roeper moderated the Q & A session and many of Harold’s 11 films were discussed including “Groundhog Day”. He said Tom Hanks turned this film down and the rest, as they say, is history. In Harold’s opinion, this film is the “It’s a Wonderful Life” for our generation. He goes on to say that with all of the blockbuster films coming out now like “Transformers”, he feels like he’s driving a Smart Car down the highway surrounded by 18 wheelers. I see him as the “Little Engine that Could” with “Year One”…  Additional pics by Mitchell Canoff. Photos from top right: Richard Roeper, Howard Tullman and Harold Ramis; me with Chaz Ebert and Joli Burrell; Janine Givray, Laura Baron and Dana Dressler; Amy Jacobsen and Brenda Sexton; Harold at the Wit after party; Deborah Chapman; me, Howard Tullman, Barbara Pollack and Bill Zwecker; Lori and Don Shroud; Badal Shah, Justin Rakestraw and Aakash Shah; chic partygoers.

The kick-off party for the Joffrey Ballet’s fourth annual “Couture & Cocktails” will be at Neiman Marcus’ Michigan Avenue store in the Zodiac Room on Wednesday, July 29th. Come for a sneak peak of international designer Pamella Roland’s exciting collection and meet her in person. The party and trunk show will be from 6 to 8 p.m. and I don’t want you to miss it! It will be a very chic affair! Please call 312-386-8921 to RSVP. Pamella will be doing the fashion show for “Couture & “Cocktails”, the most exciting event of the year, on Friday evening, September 25th, in the Palmer House, our presenting sponsor! This will be the first fashion show ever to be held in its grand lobby. Her designs are worn on hipsters around the world and we are so lucky to have her! I am proud to say that Helen Melchior and I are the co-founders of this event and this year we have more fabulous co-chairs involved:  Leslie Hindman, Shauna Montgomery, Ann Waters, Anne Kaplan, Rebecca Besser, Sheryl Dyer and Kristina McGrath. We have enlisted Donna D’Cruz, DJ of the international jet set, to amp up the excitement for the after party. At Donna’s latest event in Dubai, her guests included Robert DeNiro, Michael Jordan, Sir Richard Branson, Charlize Theron, Wesley Snipes, Jade Jagger, Mary Kate Olsen, Janet Jackson, Mischa Barton, Kylie Minogue, Denise Rich, Lindsay Lohan, Samantha Ronson and various Sheiks. “Couture & Cocktails” will be a blow out with never ending surprises and excitement! Tickets start at $250 and there is limited runway seating so reserve now to get up close and personal! For sponsorship information and tickets, please call 312-386-8921. Don’t forget to polish your dancing shoes!!! We won’t be leaving early… :) Photos from top left: Pamella Roland design; Pamella DeVos and her beautiful family; Palmer House lobby; DJ Donna D'Cruz; "Couture & Cocktails" invitation.

The 11th annual Gift of Sight Gala benefitting Midwest Eye-Banks took place Friday, May 15th at the Peninsula Hotel. Almost 150 guests came to this black tie affair to honor well loved local entrepreneurs and philanthropists Heinz Kern and Mary Ann Rose as the 2009 Man and Woman of Vision. Co-chairs for this evening were Greg Hyder, Beverly Blettner, Tom Hackett and Amy Wimer. Bill Zwecker was the emcee and the Stanley Paul Orchestra played until the wee hours. Charles Hocevar of Pratesi Linens was the silent auction chair and helped raise over $45,000 worth of items for this worthy cause. Guests included Sheryl Dyer, Cookie Cohen, Mary Cameron Frey, Connie Wimer, Kerstin Stitt, Laurie Zewer, Franco La Marca, Carol Caroll, Tiffani Kim, Marily Frank, Lesley Bramson, Jeff Stolarz, Daniel Nack, David Donnersberger, Brian Szubinski, Tom McGuire, Maureen Haga, Susan and Fred Gohl, Linda and Mark Heister, Maria and Bob Zec and Hazel Barr among others. Thanks to John Reilly Photography for the fantastic photos! Photos from top right: 2008 honoree and emeritus Beverly Blettner with 2009 honorees Heinz Kern and Mary Ann Rose; gala co-chairs Greg Hyder, Tom Hackett and Amy Wimer; Maria and Bob Zec; Susan Gohl and Laurie Zerwer. For more photos from this event, click here!
 
Congratulations to Diana Palomar Scott for the recognition she is bringing to the wonderful organization Mujeres Latinas en Accion. Diana, Pat Pulido Sanchez and Maria Capoccia hosted a luncheon on Wednesday, June 17th, to bring awareness to this group and the important work and services they provide for their community! I was sorry to miss it but if you would like to learn more, please visit www.mujereslatinasenaccion.org. Good luck Diana! :) Photo: Jessica Priego of the Chicago White Sox, Judie Garcia of WGN News, Michael Gonzalez of Maestros Ventures and Diana Palomar Scott of ABC 7 News.

I think one of the most important trends in this economic turndown is the return to basics and spending more quality time with family and friends. And what can be more traditional than a backyard BBQ?! We were invited to Jannie and Elliot Pearlman’s house the other evening for just such a get together. Friends included Nadine and Ira Epstein and Hedwig and Bob Golant. We had the best time and didn’t want the evening to end. The delightful meal consisted of Bob Golant’s BBQ cauliflower, Carson’s ribs and chicken (can’t make it any better on your own grill!), crispy sweet potato fries, potato salad, cole slaw and two different pies (cherry and apple) homemade by our hostess Jannie. It was a perfect summer evening—not too hot, not too cold and their home is enchanting. Jannie and I share a charming and talented designer, Paul Gonzalez, and our homes both showcase his incredible touch. We used him 20 years ago and we’ve been close friends ever since. Even though he says he’s retired, you can’t tell it. He takes on special projects for friends and family and can do anything be it modern or traditional. It was a wonderful night and I hope to be spending more intimate time with friends throughout the summer. Photos from top right: hosts Jannie and Elliot Pearlman; having fun with friends; Hedwig with the famous Golant BBQ'd cauliflower; homemade pies; Pearlman living room designed by Paul Gonzalez. For more party pics, click here!
 
A big congrats to the Philanthropic co-chairs for the Service Club of Chicago! Connie and Katherine Saville and Lynda Silverman put in over 2000 hours with the largest group of philanthropic volunteers (46) ever this year! We received 81 grant requests and were able to fulfill 39 of them to the tune of $362,000! The Service Club of Chicago, established in 1890, is one of the oldest philanthropic organizations in the city. Their motto is “No one is greater than the service he/she renders to the world.”  Amen…and don’t forget the annual Day on the Terrace this year at the Peninsula Hotel! The date is Monday, August 3rd, and there will be a luncheon and fashion show from many chic Chicago stores! Host Hazel Barr always has surprises up her sleeve and this year will be no different! Tickets are $150 and can be purchased by calling 312-664-8471. Photos from top right: SC philanthropic co-chairs Connie Saville, Lynda Silverman and Katherine Saville; Day on the Terrace host Hazel Barr. 

I hope you’re thoroughly enjoying summer in Chicago—there is no better city in the world, especially at this time of year! And now, if you didn’t believe in miracles before, you will now… check this out!
 
Love,
Candace :)