Candid Candace

JOFFREY BALLET’S “COUTURE & COCKTAILS” SRO AT PALMER HOUSE!

The BEST party of the year was Friday night at the Palmer House for the Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails! It must be true because everyone told me so! If you weren’t there, you missed a lot of fun! Pamella Roland’s show was electrifying and she came with her whole beautiful family. It began with the VIP party in Lockwood Restaurant where guests mingled with celebs including the darling Rancics, Giuliana and Bill, and the red-hot glam DJ, Donna D’Cruz. The lobby where the event was held was SRO and it was a scene straight out of Anna Wintour’s dreams. The runway was covered in gold gel to coordinate with the ornate gilding in the room and the lighting by Dennis Remer of Frost was sexy, sexy, sexy. Then the lights went out and the first gorgeous models appeared at the top of the stairs leading from the Empire Room. The music made you think you were in St. Tropez as the models strutted down the runway with their avant garde hairstyles by Charles Lord. There were so many glam designs it was dizzying….after the show, Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway introduced the Joffrey dancers who paraded down the runway rivaling any supermodel. The crowd went wild and then they introduced Helen Melchior and me, the event founders. This was our fourth event and by far the biggest and the best thanks to our presenting sponsor, The Palmer House. We then introduced our beautiful co-chairs: Anne Kaplan, Kristina McGrath, Rebecca Besser, Shauna Montgomery, Ann Waters, Sheryl Dyer and Leslie Hindman (who was our Auction Chair). I thanked our gracious sponsors, Netjets, Van Cleef & Arpels, United Airlines, Neiman Marcus (who introduced us to Pamella) and our media sponsor CS Magazine, who has been with us from the beginning. Leslie Hindman then started the live auction with Giuliana and Bill. The Peninsula’s Far East Package went to Rhonda Sanderson, Pamella herself bought the gorgeous diamond Van Cleef & Arpels evening watch, the Pamella Roland NY Fashion Week package went to Kristina and Mike McGrath, the party for 50 in the lobby of the Palmer House went to Barkley Payne and the Chicago Package went to Steven Haislet, Victoria Dinges and Anise Wileylittle. Even the dancers joined in donating several items for our silent auction. Temur Suluashvili knitted four sweaters to outfit a family, Fabrice Calmels (who will be playing Othello in the upcoming season) donated a dance class for 12, Valerie Robin donated homemade limoncellos and Matthew Adamczyk donated a gorgeous painting. The dance party continued in the Red Lacquer Room and the State Ballroom served as our sexy lounge area with white leather furniture and the evening’s fashion show being replayed on a giant screen. When the dancers got on the dance floor, the crowd was captivated. If you haven’t seen a Joffrey dancer let his/her hair down then you have really missed an incredible treat. They dance with such abandon and style…it’s a sight you won’t forget. No one wanted to leave when the evening came to an end and we didn’t! Off to Potter’s we went to relive the evening over a final cocktail….WHAT A NIGHT IT WAS… :) And the best part is we raised $250,000 for our beloved Joffrey! Yehhhhhhh!!! Thanks so much to all who attended and supported this unique event! Bold-faced names in the crowd included Dana Hokin, Cynthia Holbrooke, Paula and Peter Fasseas, Traci and Barry Mansur, Angie DeMars, Lynn and John McMahan, Elizabeth Ryan, Sophie Bross, Liz and Jeff Sharp, Lisa Malkin, Sherry and Tom Barrat, Shelley MacArthur Farley, Jan Melk, Gregory Russell, Amelia, Alex and Laura Silva, Kimberly Gleeson and Dr. Stephen Stryker, Sarah and Ted Tetzlaff, Debra McMichael, Grace Barry, Noren and Richard Ungaretti, Jocelyn Stoller, Chris Long, Maria Smithburg, Donn Seidholz, Jeane Schroeder, Toni and Rick Canada, Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Felicia and Kurt Winiecki, Nadine and Ira Epstein, Hedwig and Bob Golant, Charley Jordan, Jannie and Elliot Pearlman, Nicole Jacob, Paul Rehder, Nicki and Nicholas Patrick, Lydia and Francois Alouf, Leslie Hindman, Mary Lou Gorno, Sara Wheater (Ashley’s sis) and her family, Kelli Zink, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Shauna and Barry Montgomery, Rich Varnes, Diane and John Patience, Marcus Riley, Anne and Burt Kaplan, Stanley Paul, Mamie Walton, Beverly Blettner, Sherren Leigh, Carol Beitler, Patti Eyler, Stuart Feinberg and Cookie Cohen, Susan Gohl, Deb and John Gross, Odele and Brent Hawkins, Paul Iacono, Rhonda Sanderson, Marty Higgins, Cheryl Larsen and Robert Murphy, Camille Rudy, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Barkley Payne, Lar Lubovitch, Leslie Blum, Terri D’Ancona, Maria and Bob Zec, Wendy Krimins, Tina Koegel, Susan and George Heisler, Claire Holdren, John Carroll, Bruno Abate, Howard Tullman, Michaela and Dick Parillo, Kathleen Klaeser, Averill and Buddy Leviton, Abigail Rutherford and Wesley Donohoe, Ellie Fisher and Dana Spektor among others. (Othello opens at the Auditorium Theater on October 14th. Don’t miss it!) Special thanks to Howard Tullman and Flashpoint Academy for filming the show as well as our peeps from Frost Lighting which you will see on Candid Candace at a later date but click onto this link for a sneak preview. BTW, guess who visited our own Ashley Wheater at Joffrey Tower? Mikhail Baryshnikov!!! They have known each other for ages and “Mischa” as Ashley calls him, congratulated him on the great job he’s doing!!! I AGREE! Kudos to our Ashley and infinite thank yous to Bob Carl, Caitlin Saville and Barry Brecheisen for the fab fotos! For more photos from this amazing evening, click here! 

All you need to do to have a crowd for a party is have Nate Berkus’ name on the invite! This is exactly what happened for the party at Ralph Lauren last week benefitting DIFFA. It was wall-to-wall with glamorous people (after all, it is benefitting the Design Industry Foundation Fighting Aids) and everyone was very happy to be there. Nate has never looked better – if this is even possible – and seemed very happy. He co-hosted this event, which was a kickoff party for “Dining by Design” which will be held November 5th through 7th at the Merchandise Mart with Alfredo Paredes, the Executive VP of Polo Ralph Lauren and the DIFFA Chicago Board of Trustees.There were people on every floor and everywhere you looked you saw someone you knew. Seen in the crowd were Todd Hatoff and Marshall Erb, Charles Hocevar III, Frank LaMarca, Izabella Stefnis, Corinne Melchior, Helen Melchior, Graham Kostic with Kevin Aeh, Elise Schmitt and Kristin Lamprecht, John Ansehl, Francine Turk, Shelley Koester, JoHannah Kornick, Chris McNally, Chad Duda, Holly Hunt, Patrick Plante, Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero, Kyle Koenig, Az Ferguson, Laura Nelson, Marta Michulka, Melissa and Rich Gamble, Estrella Rosenberg, Jonathon Wells, Jerry Mickelson, Pavel Juricek, Judy Neidermaier, Victor Skrebneski, David Sheppard, DIFFA Chair Jennifer McGregor, Carrie Lannon, Lynn and John McMahan, Kara Mann, Jennifer Woolford, Richard Cassis, John Rouse, Jan Parr, John Brennen, Lee Allison and Deborah Walters among others. Afterwards, the party continued at RL Restaurant…it was a long night but a fun one for a wonderful cause…and, of course, it’s always great seeing NATE! :) Click here for more photos!
 
A BIG congratulations to CS Magazine on their 15th Anniversary! I can’t believe it’s been this long!! It seems like just yesterday they breezed into town and created a social sensation! The party was held at Barney’s and three of the windows were decorated with quotes about CS Magazine by Bill Zwecker, Billy Dec, Nate Berkus, Amanda Puck, Maria Pinto, and MOI! I was so honored and excited to be included—to see your name on a window like this was really something! I made Chuck drive by TWICE to make sure we got a good look! DJ White Shadow was the music man for the night with décor by Heffernan Morgan. It was a very happy crowd and included John Carroll and his girlfriend April Francis, Toni Canada, Neal Zucker, Amanda Puck, Stephen and Michael Kong (founders of Modern Luxury), Gina Bazer, David Barnett, Liz Grossman, Kelli Zink, Jenny Berg, Graham Kostic, Jonathon Wells, Gary Weidner, David Anthony, Bruno and Melissa Abate, Laura and Howard Sims, Jerry Kleiner, Julie Darling, Gregg Zgonena, Maria Ponce, Michael Crowley and Lisa Kingsley among others. Check out more photos here!
 
Chicago Now hosted its first Blogapalooza along with the 900 Shops on September 24th. Chicago Now bloggers were stationed all over the mall at selected retailers and restaurants meeting fans and friends and passing out treats. Caitlin Giles of “Wee Windy City” treated the kids to face painting, scavenger hunts and cookies while Brandon Frein and Arlene Matthews of “Styled in Chicago” created some new looks at Bloomingdale’s for a few lucky guests and presented fall fashions with personal shopper, Joyce Sobczyk. Sarah Stegner of “Prairie Chefs” gave cooking demonstrations at Williams-Sonoma while I mingled with friends at Mont Blanc. We served champagne and delicious food from Le Colonial. I like to think my friends came to see me but I have to be honest with myself—it was the food and drink! Anyway, lots of Chicago Now’s top bloggers participated including darling Ashley Bond (Miss Illinois 2009) who gave tips for working out and staying healthy at Equinox, Matt Lo Cascio of “Jay Cutler Superstar” and Julie DiCaro of “A League of Her Own” met guests and talked Chicago sports while treating them to cocktails and shoe shines and RedEye’s Stephen Markey held a meet and greet featuring Bloody Marys and breakfast bites at Oak Tree Restaurant and Bakery. (Stephen wrote a very funny account of his Blogapalooza experience on Chicago Now entitled “

I Think I’m Still Drunk from Blogapalooza.”) Friends who turned out to visit included Ryan Salzwedel, Jeffrey Alters, Bill Maxwell and Ryan Salz (Channel 3), Jon and Andrew Landan, Vincent Anzalone, Mable Buckner, Lynn McMahan, David Dvorak, Lonnie Rodriguez, Gina Driskell, JoAnne Bush, Michael Roberts, Julia Jacobs-Sandford, Allison Rausch, Kellen Sisler, Denise Sinz, Callahan Tormey, Kerry and Sally Schor, Jennifer Wirth, Rita Fisher, Joey Majumdar and Rebecca Franson among others. I hope you get a chance to check out all of the great blogs at ChicagoNow.com. For more images, click here!

As we all know, this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beginning October 1st, The Peninsula Chicago will dedicate itself to raising awareness and funds for it starting with a pink backlit hotel entrance and logo as part of the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundations’s annual “Light the Way to Find a Cure” campaign.  They will also donate $2 for every Afternoon Tea served in the lobby from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.—this tea will also feature informal fashion shows during Fashion Focus Chicago. Designs will be shown from Escada (Oct. 20th), Neiman Marcus (Oct. 21st), Giorgio Armani (Oct. 22nd), J. Mendel (Oct. 23rd) and Ultimo with jewelry by Sydney Garber (Oct. 24th). Also, $5 per dinner check at Avenues or Shanghai Terrace will be donated to Lynn Sage when diners mention breast cancer awareness and $5 will also be donated per one hour or longer treatments at The Peninsula Spa by ESPA. Let’s hope more hotels follow suit to make a difference for this much needed cause. We all know someone affected by breast cancer—let’s show them how much we care….For more info, please contact Susan Ellefson at 312-573-6616 or via e-mail at susanellefson@peninsula.com.

Hope you have a wonderful week…I am sorry for our Olympic bid loss but to quote an old Garth Brooks song, I guess we have to be thankful for “Unanswered Prayers.” Check out this little clip that will make you smile and I’ll “talk” to you next week!

Love,
Candace :)

(And as always, if you would like to contact me, please e-mail me at Candace@CandidCandace.com.)

THE PENINSULA HOTELS AS SEEN BY ANNIE LEIBOVITZ

The invitation was sleek, elegant and in black and white just like her photographs—even the stamp had one of her photos taken for this occasion. “Portraits of the Peninsula” was an exclusive party

celebrating these remarkable photographs taken by Annie Leibovitz for the Peninsula Hotels featuring the stars of their line in Chicago and Tokyo. With these photos, Leibovitz departs from her tradition of celebrity portraiture to focus on the people and personalities behind the Peninsula brand. While not famous, the faces of Peninsula pageboys, housekeepers and bellmen are just as compelling as those of celebrities

when seen through her lens. This was the second collection of images by Leibovitz—the first photos were taken in Hong Kong and New York. She was given free rein to roam the hotels, in public spaces and back-of-house areas, shooting wherever she wished and choosing whichever scenes or staff

members that she believed best represented the heart and soul of the hotels. Peter Borer, the Peninsula Hotels’ chief operating officer said, “Portraits of the Peninsula” is a dramatic departure from traditional hotel advertising; there are no models or staged images in these photos, and the only celebrity is the one behind the camera.” In one endearing shot,

The Peninsula Chicago’s doorman welcomes a young guest to the hotel, while in another the hotel’s chefs stand in an organic city farm with Chicago’s dramatic skyline in the background, and the reservations team is poised to welcome guests’ calls in a third.

Peninsula Chicago GM Maria Zec and catering director Greg Hyder were also included in this select group of people who were chosen by Leibovitz for the shoot. This very exclusive party was held in the Peninsula Suite (1808). I had never been there before but it was an experience I won’t soon forget. The

Pen Suite, as it is called, is 3,465 square feet with a wrap-around outdoor terrace and Jacuzzi overlooking Lake Michigan. (It didn’t hurt that it was a perfect evening with a sunset that made you weep.) And when I say terrace, I mean it was HUGE! There were waiters and serving stations surrounding its

perimeter as well as a full bar. The food was the best around with selections that included Japanese Wagyu beef with white truffle brulee, snow crab dim sum, BBQ beef short ribs, exquisite foie gras, mille-feuille

caviar deviled quail eggs, scallop and truffle tarts and so much more. The new French pastry chef, Celine Plano, stole the show with her already famous peanut butter and jelly macaroons! The Sirens played while lucky guests enjoyed the show including Victor Skrebneski, Rich Gamble (the new publisher

of Chicago magazine), Dan Uslan, Christie Hefner, Billy Marovitz, Michael Leppen, Yvette Cusack, Sheryl Dyer, Amy Tara Koch,

Mary and Jim Lasky, Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Arredia, Eric and Jen Ferguson, Hazel and Warren Barr, Sherrill Bodine, Helen Melchior, Paul Iacono, John Regas, Amy Wimer and Jim Wlodarczyk, Jim Smith, Carol Carroll, Karen Maisa, Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern. Click here to check out more of Annie's amazing photos and here for more pictures from this wonderful event.  

Common Threads' new associate board hosted its first annual World Cookout – at Fulton’s on the River last week. Again, it was another one of those perfect evenings in Chicago and the crowd turned out in force to support it. Many chefs were there showing off their

culinary skills including Stephanie Izard (winner of Top Chef Season 4), Rodelio Abilgot (Sunda), Giuseppe Tentori (Boka), Rick Gresh (David Burke’s Primehouse), Suzanne Imaz and Martial Noguier (Café des

Architectes), Paul Virant (Vie), Chris Pandel (The Bristol), Bill Kim (Urban Belly), Gale Gand (Tru) and Ray Villalobos (Table 52) and others. There was a VIP Tasting with Café Spiaggia's chef di cucina Sarah Grueneberg. The

after-party continued at Jake Melnick’s. Almost $30,000 was raised to support the Common Threads’ after-school cooking programs for low-income kids. Seen on the scene were Rich Varnes, Ken Norgan, Linda O’Keefe (Executive Director for Common Threads) and her handsome hubby Nick and Amanda Puck (who led the charge for this event) among others. Click here for more photos!  
 

My favorite artist, Francine Turk, recently held a preview party hosted by Chicago Art Source and Gallery. Her works are highly desirable to many collectors and the who’s who among the designer set—Nate Berkus just mentioned in his

Tribune article this past weekend that he had loaned one of his Turk pieces to his brother for his new apartment. Her artwork also appeared in the movie “The Break-Up” starring Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston. The event was catered by the Elysian Hotel

(who is also a big fan of Francine’s with many of her pieces appearing in the hotel). This exhibit, entitled “Body Language,” will run through October 31st and is inspired by

her recent travels to France and the home of Marcel Proust. She uses varying mediums that include oil, pastels, charcoal and mixed media and this recent collection previewed her latest pieces. It is a show not

to be missed! Francine will travel back to Paris to continue this body of work that is proving to be a successful departure from her work of the last five years. We

wish her the very best and can’t wait to see what exciting images her next trip brings! For more info, stop by the Chicago Art Source and Gallery at 1871 N. Clybourn or visit their web site. For more photos, click here!
 

A Silver Lining Foundation will host its annual black-tie gala on Saturday, October 3rd, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick place (2233 S. Martin L. King Dr.). A Silver Lining Foundation (ASLF) provides breast cancer resources, quality of life services and no-cost mammograms to uninsured patients. This year’s event will

feature singer Nan Mason, an eye-popping live auction and unique silent auction. Tickets are available for purchase at www.asilverliningfoundation.org for $300 per person or $3,000 per table. The evening will feature dinner and dancing to the music of Rhythm City. I know we all know someone touched by breast cancer so I hope you and your friends will be able to support this worthy cause that provides these much needed services. Call 312-345-1322 to learn more about this wonderful organization.
 
And now be prepared for next week’s Joffrey Ballet’s Couture & Cocktails coverage because I am still recovering from the PARTY OF THE YEAR! You will see what I mean when you see the photos! Thanks to all of you who supported this event and I hope you had as much fun as I did!
 
I am sorry this week’s Candid Candace is coming out a little late. My mother-in-law fell recently and broke her hip—she is 88—but the good news is that she only needed pins and is already up and walking. Thanks so much for all of your prayers and good thoughts…they worked! See you soon and thanks again for checking in!
 
Love,
Candace :)

P.S. Check out what my friend Billy Dec is up to with our Olympic bid!

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 :)

JOFFREY’S COUTURE & COCKTAILS KICK-OFF PARTY ROCKS NEIMAN MARCUS!

Neiman Marcus hosted an overflow crowd for the Joffrey Ballet’s Kick-Off Party for “Couture & Cocktails” Wednesday night. Over 200 people crowded into the Zodiac Room to meet the event’s star designer, Pamella DeVos of Pamella Roland designs. She is a beautiful blond with a charm to match and was so gracious to all of the guests…never tiring of taking photos and greeting everyone warmly. Pamella is a Midwesterner from Grand Rapids, Mich., so it’s not a surprise that she is so down to earth. She had her whole family in tow on this evening including her mom, daughter Sydney and even her new Maltese mix puppy, Manolo (yes, named after the shoe!) There were wonderful hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, of course! The informal modeling of her chic designs had everyone oohing and aahing! CS magazine’s Graham Kostic interviewed Pamella, Neiman Marcus GM Wendy Krimmins, and PR director Tina Koegel, told the crowd how happy they are with our collaboration. And so are WE! We are thrilled to have Pamella as our featured designer this year for Couture & Cocktails and I know the show will be over the top AMAZING! It will be held in the majestic lobby of the Palmer House, our underwriting partners, on Friday, September 25th, and is the first time a fashion show will be held here. The décor will be by Jonathan Ryan of “A Perfect Event” and I don’t want to spoil the surprise but I will tell you that it will be unlike anything Chicago has ever seen before. I had heard so many wonderful things about Pamella and I didn’t think anyone could live up to the accolades but she certainly did and surpassed them at that. Everyone in attendance was very excited and when the DJ ramped up the music, no one wanted to leave… It was a fantastic party with an incredible mix of fashionistas, friends and fun-lovers including NBC honcho Larry Wert, Kenneth Marks (Pamella’s director of sales and marketing), Steve Kemble (who flew in all the way from Dallas for the party), David Brandt, Dennis Chaffee, Julie Allen, Lydia and Francois Alouf, Marybeth Brandabur, Vicky Holdren, Margie Habermann, Sheryl Dyer, Executive Director Christopher Conway, Artistic Director Ashley Wheater, Kate Benson and Dick Johnson, Jay Franke, Sophie Bross, Rebecca Besser, Liz Ryan, Donna Kleinman, Cindy Burns, Sharyl Mackey, Ellen Wesley, Felicia and Curt Winiecki, Dana Hokin Garvey, Cynthia HolBrooke, Barbara Glass, Marci Holzer, Ed Howlett, Greg Hyder, Hazel and Warren Barr, Deirdre Nardi, Suzie Glickman, Lynne Bredfeldt, Lisa Malkin, Caryn Kraff, Lynn McMahan, WB President Christine Ott, Kate and Leslie Zentner, Dori Wilson, Angela Rose, Robin Berger, Lauren Besser, Linda Johnson Rice, George Fuller, Connie and Katherine Saville, Martha Wallace, Patrick Plante, Paul Iacono, Alan Sax, Bob Golant, Laura Baron, Chris Long, Julie Johnson, Gail and Bruce Mertz, Cynthia Pacholik, Nico Rodriguez, Charles Lord (who will be doing the model’s hair for the show) and his partner Ricardo Santiago, Courtney Shea, Brenda Sexton, Joyce Wippman, Kimberly Gleeson and Dr. Steven Stryker, Aaron Scott, Andrew Mann, Frank Paul,  Liz Sharp and Celeb TV’s Kelli Zink. And of course, our glorious dancers!!! If the enthusiasm from this party is an indicator for the main event then you better mark your calendars now! There will be room for everyone but only 200 VIP seats available along the runway. For tickets and more info, please call Julia Jankowski at 312-386-8921. I already have my dress! :) (Thanks to Caitlin Saville and Bob Carl for being the official photogs.) Photos from top left: co-founder Helen Melchior, Pamella DeVos, me, Kenneth Marks and Pamella's sister Sharyl; Pamella with the dancers; Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and WB member Joyce Wippman; Sydney and Pamella DeVos with Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway; Pamella Roland's designs; Graham Kostic interviewing Pamella; WB president Christine Ott, Liz Ryan and Sophie Bross; Neiman's GM Wendy Krimmins; Cindy Burns, me, Linda Johnson Rice and George Fuller; Leslie Hindman, Chris Long and Lydia Alouf; Lisa Malkin, Margie Habermann, Kimberly Gleeson and Dr. Steven Stryker; Kate and Leslie Zentner with Dori Wilson; Ellen Wesley, Martha Wallace and Sharyl Mackey; co-chair Sheryl Dyer and C & C producer Lisa Marie McComb; Mary Ann Murphy, co-chair Rebecca Besser, Donna Kleinman, Robin Berger, Liz Ryan and Sophie Bross; Helen, David Brandt, me and Dennis Chaffee; Hazel Barr, Steve Kemble and Sheryl Dyer. For more photos from this event, click here!
 
There’s a lot going on in Chicago in the world of dance including the upcoming Chicago Dancing Festival coming to Millenium Park on Tuesday August 18 through Saturday, August 22nd. Renowned choreographer and Chicago native Lar Lubovitch and highly esteemed Chicago dancer, Jay Franke, founded this event in 2007 as a non-profit whose mission is to bring the best of dance to Chicago. Last year the festival attracted an audience of more than 13,000 to this free celebration and this year there will be dancers from 16 of the country’s greatest companies sharing the stage including the Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard St. Dance Chicago, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Step Afrika, Chicago Human Rhythm Project and Dayton Contemporary Dance Company among many others as well as exciting guest artists from the New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the American Ballet Theatre. The celebration kicks off Tuesday, August 18th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Harris Theater with “New Voices,” on the 19th there will be a lecture/discussion of “Artists Up Close” at the MCA Stage and on Thursday, August 20th, at the Harris is “Modern Masters.” The event culminates on Saturday, August 22nd, with “A Celebration of American Dance” under the stars at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millenium Park. For complete event info, please go to www.ChicagoDancingFestival.com. I hope to see you ALL there! :) Photos from top left: dancing under the stars, artists at Chicago Dancing Festival; Lar Lubovitch Dance Company.
 
Everyone has their version of “Housewives” these days and the BIG party hosted by Michigan Avenue Magazine the other evening was no exception! Gorgeous gals who graced the pages for their “Surreal Housewives” issue included Lynn McMahan, Julie Lampert, Whitney Lasky, Trevian Kutti and Kristina McGrath. It was a very attractive crowd that gathered at the Four Seasons this week to celebrate. Publisher Dan Uslan introduced editor-in-chief Susanna Negovan, whom he described as someone “who makes him look so good.” Then Susanna introduced the glamour girls who each spoke and thanked their friends and hubbies for being so supportive. The bank of photogs snapped away as the girls were introduced and I know you will see many beautiful shots in the magazines very soon. This is the magazine’s third year anniversary and, according to Dan, the biggest issue so far. No matter what may come of the hoopla over the possibility of a “Housewives” or “Windy City Wives” show in Chicago, one thing is certain…..we sure love to talk about it! I know it would be a HUGE success considering the amount of interest being shown. Housewives Unite! We have the POWER! Good luck to all of the participants and may the best “wife” win!!! :) Chic guests at this blowout included Jerry Kleiner, Marisa Molinari, Greg Zgnonena, NBC Street Team boss Marcus Riley, Oprah makeup guru Reggie Wells, Mary Ann Murphy, Caryn Kraff, Quentin Schumacher, Rebecca Besser, Patrick Plante, Vonita Reescer, Mamie Walton, Gale Gottlieb, Justin Polera, George Fuller, Dennis Minkle, Hazel and Warren Barr, Bob Zec, Stanley Paul, Sherrill Bodine, Laurie Davis, Secretary of State Jesse White, Toni Canada, Netjet’s Jeannie and Donn Seidholz, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, Julee White, Lee Tadin, Catie Keough and her sister Colleen Kelly among MANY more! Photos from top right: Trevian Kutti, Lynn McMahan, Julie Lampert and Kristina McGrath (photo courtesy of Getty Images); Mike McGrath, Tony Canada, Hazel Barr and Kristina McGrath; Lynn McMahan; with the boys; Jeannie and Donn Seidholz; Laurie Davis and Sherrill Bodine; Jerry Kleiner, Elise Jones; Ashley Jung; Tonya Stevenson and Diane McGrath; Caryn Kraff, DeDe Lubeznik, Lee Tadin and Mary Ann Murphy. For more photos from this event, click here! 
 
Every year around this town my BFF from high school, Susie Sager, and her daughter Natalie come to Chicago for a mother/daughter weekend. Chuck and I always try to take them to the newest and hottest spots so for dinner Friday we ate at Jerry Kleiner’s 33 Club and Saturday we had drinks at Roof at the Wit Hotel but the highlight of the trip was dinner at Sunda—Billy Dec’s latest venture. It was sports night at Sunda because all in one room, there were A-Rod, Blackhawks former great Jeremy Roenick, Derek Jeter, Chris Getz (Sox second baseman), Gordon Beckham (Sox third baseman), Mark Teixeira (Yankee designated hitter) and Mr. October himself, Reggie Jackson. Thanks for the memories Billy Dec!! It was quite the night! Photos from top left: Natalie Sager with A-Rod; White Sox players Chris Getz and Gordon Beckham and friends with Michelle, Sandy Caspariello and Natalie; Reggie Jackson with Natalie and me.
 
On Wednesday, August 5th, the Stimulus Social Club will host their monthly event at Market at 1113 W. Randolph. This club consists of a network of socially conscious professionals in the Chicago area who choose to give back while having fun. They meet the first Wednesday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at a new venue, benefitting a new charity and always new faces. This month’s designated charity is Chicago 2016 (2016 Olympics). For only $10 you can mix and mingle with like minded friends for good causes. Executive hosts are Kim Lichenstein, Nadia Wetzel, Betsy Helmkamp, Megan Richards, Monica Canellis, Marissa Rudman, Katy Wilson and Kristen Tischhauser. RSVP to rsvp@stimulussocialclub.com. Photos from top right: gathering for a drink with the Stimulus Social Club; Market's fantastic rooftop.
 
A BIG congrats to the Palmer House for the honor of being named one of the top 101 hotel suites in the world by Elite Traveler magazine!!! It is the only Chicago hotel to be included in the world-wide selection and I couldn’t be happier for them!! Palmer House GM Dean Lane said, “To have the Palmer House ranked with the Royal Suite of the Plaza in New York; The Eden Rock, St. Barth’s in the West Indies; The Maestro suite of the Dolder Grand, Switzerland and the Presidential Suite of the Mandarin Oriental in Tokyo is quite a badge of honor. We are very proud.” AND SO ARE WE!! The 3,700-square-foot, 11-room Penthouse was designed by Forrest Perkins, Inc. of Washington, D.C. and is sumptuous to say the least with exotic woods, lush fabrics and lavish amenities. (Coincidentally, the Penthouse will be included in one of the live auction packages for Couture & Cocktails! Yet another reason to come on Sept. 25th!!) Congrats to our gorgeous Palmer House for this much deserved honor!!! Photos from top right: penthouse dining room; penthouse bathroom. 
 
I hope you are all enjoying each and every day of our glorious summer in the city!  I know we are! Have a great week and I’ll “see” you next Tuesday. :) 
 
Love,
Candace :)
 
P.S. We have had tons of baby birds in our backyard recently including five robins, two cardinals and three baby kestrels (sparrow hawks)! Life is good when there is birdsong. :) Photo: one of the kestrels in our yard.

JOFFREY WOWS SPRING GALA CROWD!

How does one describe a magical evening like Friday night when the Joffrey Spring Gala was held at the Hilton Chicago? From beginning to end, the memory-making moments never stopped. First, guests arrived at the Auditorium Theater for a wine reception starting at 5:30 p.m. and the performance began at 6:30 p.m. Gala co-chairs Sandy Deromedi, Mary Jo Basler and Jay Franke welcomed the crowd and thanked the sponsors and artistic director Ashley Wheater and executive director Christopher Clinton Conway introduced the program which began with an inspiring video. The production was, in a word, breathtaking. I’ve followed the Joffrey dancers for a while now and I will tell you, they are a world-class ballet company and every time they dance, they are so much better than the time before. (If you haven’t gotten tickets for the Spring Series, DO IT NOW! You don’t have to be a dance aficionado to appreciate these thrilling performances. The program began with all of the Exelon Strobel Step-Up students performing "Groove", a fast paced, energetic piece that showcased these young dancers’ incredible skills. (They are brilliantly and passionately directed by former dancer Pierre Lockett.) Next up was our own Joffrey Ballet performing a pas de deux from “Reflections” and danced exquisitely by Christine Rocas and Temur Suluashvili. Then “Age of Innocence” choreographed by Edwaard Liang and danced by Derrick Agnoletti, Raul Casaola, Aaron Rogers and Mauro Villanueva. A haunting “Aria” was performed by Matthew Adamczyk and you could hear a pin drop in the audience with his skillful performance. “In the Middle Somewhat Elevated” was danced to perfection by Fabrice Calmels and Victoria Jaiani. This number was very modern and Pulp Fiction-esque in feel and had the audience enthralled. The closing piece – the highlight – was “Carousel A Dance.” With music by Richard Rodgers and choreographed by the genius Christopher Wheeldon, the company was at its peak. The clever and unique staging made the country fair come to life for everyone in the audience. It was danced by the gorgeous Victoria Jaiani and handsome Matthew Adamczyk with “friends” Mauro Villanueva, Allison Walsh, Elizabeth Hansen and Temur Suluashvili. It brought the audience to their feet as the dancers took bow after bow amid a waterfall of glittering confetti. It made me so proud to be a part of this incredible organization that I could almost bust. My husband and I were moved to tears… Photos from top right: Gala co-chairs Sandy Deromedi, Jay Franke and Mary Jo Basler; Exelon Strobel Step-Up students; Joffrey dancers taking their bows; Gala hostesses Jessica Steffenson, Astra Gamsjaeger, Heidi Keeling and Marjorie Habermann; Liz Ryan, Shawna Owen, Sophie Bross and Heather Webster; Pam Strobel with Jeff and Lisa Leiden; Julie Garwood and Julie Johnson; me and Jesus Salguiero; Nancy Bauer and Debbie Beitler; Kelly Dettman and Judy Pierpont; Sheryl Dyer and Alan Sax; Margaret O'Connor, Harold Ramis, Erica Ramis, Katherine Veach and Mayari Pritzker. 

On this night, we were fortunate enough to be picked up and driven to the theatre and gala in a 1960 Rolls Royce limousine with chauffeur courtesy of our friends Deb and John Gross. Now I know how Queen Elizabeth feels!!! Thanks so much Deb and John!! You made a special evening even MORE special! Photo: me and Christine Ott with the vintage Rolls Royce limo.
  
The Gala was held at the Hilton Chicago at 720 S. Michigan Ave. and guests were transported there via trolleys that were running constantly. Gala co-chairs Sandy Deromedi, Mary Jo Basler and Jay Franke thought of EVERYTHING and in this very tough economy brought in 950 guests and raised almost $1.2 million dollars this year for the Joffrey! This is simply amazing and I know how hard they all worked to make this happen! Huge kudos and thank you to Sandy, Mary Jo and Jay!! Presenting sponsor was Harris Private Bank and the dinner and performance was underwritten by Alphawood Foundation. Premier grand benefactors included Abbott Fund, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Basler, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Deromedi, Mr. Fred Eychaner, Mr. Jay Franke and Mr. David Herro, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Levy and J.B. and M.K. Pritzker Family Foundation. Thank you all! Photos from top left: Richard and Kate Benson; Harriet and Irwin Ross.
 
There was a cocktail reception in the Normandie Lounge and then dinner and dancing by Rich Daniels and the City Lights Orchestra in the Grand Ballroom. The Grand Ballroom has never looked more elegant thanks to the floral and décor efforts by Jonathan Ryan of “A Perfect Event.” It was simply breathtaking: There were two-foot-tall white floral arrangements composed of soaring calla lilies, amaryllis, peonies and hydrangeas placed on various tables in beautiful crystal vases. On other tables were chic, modern silver based lamps with white shades and then on the rest of the tables, were gorgeous small white and pale green flowers all set on custom made Fortuny linens. A dramatic touch were the apple green uplights on the second balcony highlighting all of the gilding and moldings. It was the crowning touch and even the giant crystal chandeliers seemed to sparkle a little brighter. Dinner began with smoked salmon, followed by filet mignon topped with an herb crust, truffle sauce, sautéed spinach, fingerling potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The dessert, an apple tatin surrounded by caramel sauce under a golden chocolate cage with fresh raspberries, was a delightful tribute to the Joffrey Ballet. Photos from top left: Angela Flenoy of Sara Lee and Sharon Ford; arriving at the Hilton; Linda Johnson Rice; decor by Jonathan Ryan of A Perfect Event; Marci Holzer and her darling family; delicious Joffrey dessert.   

We all danced until the wee hours and hated to say goodbye. Everyone was at their most elegant and I can’t wait to see what next year brings! Chuck and I were whisked back home in our vintage Rolls and then we turned back into pumpkins but were very happy pumpkins indeed! Hope to see you all there next year!!! Photos from top left: John Amato and Rhonda Sanderson; Greg Hyder, Michelle Desjardins and Bob Golant. For more photos from this magical evening, click here!

Saturday night we attended the American Cancer Society’s Discovery Ball at the Civic Opera House as guests of Kristina and Mike McGrath. It was a packed audience and the rooms were beautifully decorated by Kehoe Designs with massive hanging baskets of flowers and six-foot-tall florals on the auction tables. They had a silent and live auction which raised almost $250,000 with the entire event raising over $2.9 million for cancer research. This is the first time I’ve seen these wireless remote bidding devices that were used but they were very effective. Bidders could watch their bids on the giant live screen and bid from the comfort of their tables throughout the course of the evening. For the live auction, a behind-the-scenes tour with Katie Couric and breakfast at Tiffany’s went for $22,000. Mike and Kristina McGrath donated a 2010 Lexus IS 250 convertible with your choice of colors which is the first of its kind in Chicago. It sold for $50,000. Lucky Mike also won one of the raffle prizes which was a gorgeous diamond and platinum ring from Tiffany’s. A silver lab puppy was auctioned off for $25,000 to United Airlines president Glen Tilton and wife Jackie. An Indianapolis 500 racing package with a full racing suit from Danica Patrick sold for $32,000. Haity and Jim McNerney, CEO of Boeing, were event chairs. CNBC’s Maria Bartiromo was the emcee for the evening and Natalie Cole gave an amazing performance. Natalie has been diagnosed with Hepatitis C and needs a kidney. My tablemates informed me they saw her last year and this year she looks much frailer. We wish her the best. Next year’s chairs will be Victoria and Gary Holdren. Photos from top left: Discovery Ball at the Civic Opera House; dining on stage at the Civic Opera House; Kristina and Mike McGrath with a Tiffany's model; bidder's board; United Airlines president Glen Tilton and wife Jackie with their new puppy; performer Natalie Cole; 2010 Discovery Ball co-chairs Victoria and Gary Holdren; Shauna and Barry Montgomery; David and Julie Lampert. For more photos from this event, click here! 

There are lots more fun events coming up and I want to share a few with you. The first party is hosted by Graham Kostic from “Glossed and Found.” It will be held on Thursday, April 30th, at Galleria Unico from 6 to 8 p.m. to honor their spotlighted profiles. Honorees are Jessa Brinkmeyer, Toni Canada, Lisa Trunda, Harold Zimmerman and moi. Space is limited so please RSVP to Rachel@glossedandfound.com if you can join us. The second event, Art Rocks, will take place on May 1st and is hosted by Cynthia Rowley, Melissa and Henrique Kerch, Claudia Kleiner, Christine Sanderson, Kasia Koniar, Tracey Mayer and moi aussi. This is the official after party for Art Chicago and space fills up fast. Enjoy local paintings, digital art, specialty drinks and mingle with Chicago’s hottest fashion and art scene. RSVP to www.Factio-Magazine.com/artrocks. The final fun and exciting party will be the premier of the cult classic movie Star Trek on May 8th with a private screening at 600 N. Michigan Ave. theatres. Tickets are $100 and will benefit Columbia College. They can be purchased online by clicking on this link. Doors open at 5 p.m., movie starts at 5:30 p.m. and the after-party at Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar will start at 8 p.m. There will be a special introduction by Trekkie Richard Roeper. This is a Chicago Link Productions event so you just know it will be loads of fun! Photos from top right: Glossed & Found logo; Art Rocks invite; Star Trek poster.
  
I hope to see you around our wonderful town and I also hope that someday spring will arrive……in case you’ve forgotten, this is what it looks like! This photo was taken last year in Harbor Country in Michigan during the Celebration of Home and Gardens Tour which benefits Heartland Alliance. This year it will take place on Saturday, June 6th. For ticket info, please call (312) 660-1319. It is a wonderful way to spend the day and you’ll bump into a lot of friends too… :) And now, if you feel like you’re swimming with sharks in this terrible economy, take a tip from our little friend and see how it will all work out in the end. 

 

Love,
Candace :)

SEEN ON THE SCENE

I love Chicago! There is never a dull moment and so many fascinating people, restaurants and parties to attend! And in no time, the Olympics will be here (hopefully!) and everyone will be trying to move to our incredible town! Well, we got here first, thank goodness and here’s what’s been going on….
 
I wrote about Sunda’s opening in a recent blog but hadn’t had a chance to go there yet myself. We went for one of a series of soft openings and who should I see first, but my friend from Bentley-Lamborghini Gold Coast, Jason Neagu! He is Sunda’s manager and also works at the dealership during the day. This is one hard-working and NICE guy! The restaurant is beautiful—very Asian in flavor with lots of dramatic lighting and a great wrap-around bar. The food is very reasonably priced—which is key right now in this economy—and very diverse and tasty. Some of the offerings include honey-ginger braised shortribs, Malay style Chilean seabass, lemongrass beef lollipops, “Devil’s Basket” (wok tossed crispy soft shell crabs with shallot, scallions and garlic), Thai fried chicken and an incredible selection of designer sushi. One of the most popular is “No You Didn’t!  The Ultimate Handroll” (crab, shrimp tempura, salmon, spicy tuna, dynamite)….Whew….There is also a wonderful dessert--deep-fried banana “pie” fritters!! Prices start at $4 for the salted edamame up to $34 for the filet Tobanyaki (pickled wasabi butter, peppers and onions). Photos from top right: Toni Canada, Heather Farley, Jennifer Hamood and Liz Kolosa; Sunda manager Jason Neagu; Iko, a superior server at Sunda; Sunda's Scorpion Roll (softshell crab, tempura shrimp, avocado, asparagus and spicy mayo); me and Billy Dec. For more photos from this event, click here!
 
We also went to The Publican the other evening, which is Donnie Madia’s latest restaurant. Donnie's other restaurants include Blackbird and Avec and they are all sparsely modern in style and atmosphere. The night we went with our friends Nadine and Ira Epstein, the place was packed. The booths are entered through a pair of wooden doors which gives a very intimate feel but also doesn’t allow the serving staff to see when the table needs clearing—a small glitch which I’m sure will be improved upon down the road. The menu includes such tasty items as halibut with pistachios, lemon and mint ($14), Basque fish stew ($21), cassoulet (lamb, pork confit and Toulouse sausage-$16) and pork country ribs with polenta and asparagus ($20). There is also a very diverse oyster selection as well as appetizing sides. There are community tables as well as booths which I think are crying out for votive candles on the tables but then that’s just me, I’m a hopeless romantic. Photos from top right: inside The Publican; Nadine and Ira Epstein; The Publican's Dover sole.

Well, some young ladies have cake for their birthday parties and then other lucky people like Corinne Melchior have one of the major stars of the Joffrey Ballet conduct a dance class for her and her friends. That teacher was the handsome, 6’6”, 27-year-old principal dancer, Fabrice Calmels!! It was an evening of memories as we all diligently listened and tried to learn steps from the master Fabrice. He had unlimited patience and charm and if you haven’t seen him in any of the Joffrey productions, then you’re missing history in the making. Fabrice was born and raised in France where he began ballet training at the age of three. In 1991, he entered the prestigious, 300-year-old Paris Opera School which he says was basically a boarding school that he attended for 10 years. He moved to New York in 1998 and danced with the ABT as well as the Pennsylvania and Boston Ballet companies. The Joffrey Ballet, then under artistic director Gerald Arpino, hired Fabrice the day before 9/11. At this point in time, the Joffrey was stressed and Fabrice got stuck in Paris because of red tape with his visa. Not one to miss an opportunity, he joined the Lido de Paris and shortly thereafter the Joffrey beckoned again and this time he was able to answer the call. Fabrice says, “Dancing is like a personal escape. It’s a way to get away from life’s drama; you’re taken away and you can finally breathe. It’s peaceful--it’s a relief.” And it’s a BIG relief for us that he is here with our very own Joffrey Ballet! What a wonderful birthday party, Corinne!!!! I was honored to be a part of it! Other lucky guests included her loving mother Helen Melchior, Ann Waters (in a darling ballerina outfit), Margie Habermann, Amelia Silva, Christopher Conway, Jonathan Ryan, Ana Ernst and Laura Silva. If you want more Fabrice in your life (and why wouldn’t you?!), be sure to make plans to see Fabrice as Othello in the Joffrey Ballet’s Legends series from April 29th through May 10th. Photos from top left: Corinne Melchior and Fabrice Calmels; Fabrice instructing his "students"; Fabrice as Othello in the Joffrey's upcoming Legends series; Fabrice and Bonnie Letkeman. For more photos of Fabrice, click here!
 
The Baton Show Lounge celebrated its 40th anniversary in grand style on March 18th with a one-of-a-kind celebration. The show was as exciting as ever thanks to the wonderful choreography by Harrison McEldowney. Jim Flint, a native of Peoria, opened the club in March 1969 using beer crates with plywood as a stage.  Now it has become famous across the globe as presenting the best of the best through the years in the art of female impersonation. Janet Jackson said of her first visit, “The first time I went to the Baton in Chicago, I told my female dancers they’re giving so much femininity and we look like boys onstage.” Other celebs who have enjoyed the shows through the years include Joan Crawford, Sammy Davis Jr., Carol Channing, Dinah Shore, Kirk Douglas, Robert Wagner, Stephanie Powers, Lauren Bacall, Shirley MacClaine, Joan Rivers, Madonna, Tim Curry, Chris Farley, Dennis Rodman, Gayle Sayers and Jimmy Connors. There were lots of familiar faces at this invitation-only event including Scot Sauer, John Gerald, Art Friedman, Jimmy Rittenberg, Greg Hyder, Hazel Barr, John Regas, Rodolfo Zavala, Craig Hogan, David Hudspeth, Mercedes (Miss Continental Plus), Kyle Ross, Robbie Ham, Denis Sabol, Eric Gorczya, Cole Stolman and Chrissy Rybarczyk. And another congrats to Baton owner Jim Flint for all that he does for the community (and on his anniversary!). If you haven't been to the Baton Club yet - or have been and want to go again - show times are Wednesday through Sunday at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. and reservations are required. Photos from top left: Mistress of Ceremonies Ginger Grant with Baton Club owner Jim Flint; Maya Douglas; Rodolfo Zavala, Greg Hyder and Craig Hogan; Maya Douglas; Sherri Payne; Ginger Grant; Scot Sauer and John Gerald; Jimmy Rittenberg and friend; Hazel Barr and John Regas; me and Jim Flint. Click here for more photos from this event and click here for a slideshow!

Lulu’s at the Belle Kay was the sight of a private shopping party hosted by Victoria Lautman of NPR and Chicago magazine's “Writers on Record.” Laurie Davis, LuLu’s owner, finds the most incredible vintage clothing, shoes, hats, jewelry and handbags and is a well-known fixture on the social scene around town. If you haven't visited this jewel at 3862 N. Lincoln then you're missing a shopping experience you won't soon forget! Guests included Carrie Lannon, Victoria Espy Burns, Melissa Weber, Jessica Diamond, Beth Loeb, Michelle Edwards, Lynn Lockwood Murphy, Nina Winston, Julie Shelton, Cioia Diliberto, Erika Bartelstein and Ruth Lednicer. Photos from top right: party host Victoria Lautman; LuLu's owner Laurie Davis with Julie Shelton; Carrie Lannon. For more photos from this event, click here! 
 
I didn’t have the space in my last blog to tell you about the latest TRENDS I spotted in South Beach so here is the “hot” list!
 
1)    Multiple mini bracelets. They can be in any price range but I’ve seen multiples of the enamel ones from Hermes and they’re so chic worn together with a fabulous Eres bathing suit!
2)    Mismatched bikini tops and bottoms— girls by the beach and at the pools were all into mixing and matching and it looked so fresh.
3)    Shortest of shorts! This is a trend that is CERTAINLY not for everyone but then I’m just the reporter!
4)    Man bags—the most popular being the Damier pattern by Louis Vuitton
5)    BIG earrings—for day and night…
6)    Patio dresses during the day. These long, flowing dresses look especially nice worn poolside.
7)    Havaiana flip-flops—a must have in Miami.
8)    Dinosaur Designs bangles—these resin bracelets come in all sizes and colors.
9)    Chrome Hearts silver jewelry on all of the young guys—a great look with a suntan.

...but in my world, I live by the motto “Cheap is the new black!!!” Photos from top left: Rihanna in a mismatched bikini; a LV Damier pattern man bag; Havaianas flip flops; Dinosaur Designs resin bangles.

And now I want to leave you with one of my favorite hostess gift ideas—Caron Powder Puffs! I found them in Paris years ago at the Caron Perfume Store but now you can buy them here. They come in two sizes—small ($45) and large ($75). They are the ultimate in body powder luxury and once you use one, you will never turn back. And they come in the most beautiful pale sherbet-colored shades. They’re available at Phyto Universe. Just heavenly!! :) Photo: Caron Powder Puffs.
 
I hope you’ve enjoyed the latest Candid Candace! Please check in next time and enjoy your week!
 
Love,
Candace :)

FUN AND SUN IN SOUTH BEACH!

Sunny, 82 degrees, pool, ocean, palm trees……it was heavenly! This perfectly describes our trip to South Beach this past week; the weather was gorgeous night and day and we were so happy to be there! There is lots of restaurant news so let’s start with the dining scene: The first night, we went to a new restaurant (for us), Prime Italian. It is the sister restaurant to local favorite Prime 112 and is located directly across the street at 101 Ocean Dr. They serve very large portions with very large prices. Highlights or lowlights were the $140 lobster, $35 spaghetti and (one) meatball and $17 glass of Pinot Grigio. But with the sexy lighting and beautiful people……what more do you want? Photos from top right: Prime Italian; Prime Italian's spaghetti, basil and tomato sauce dish; Prime Italian's kitchen.  
 
The pool at the Sagamore was wonderful, just like we remembered it from last year. However, there seemed to be no security anywhere and even a homeless woman came in for a swim and was offered a towel??!!! I’m not sure we’ll be staying there the next time. Photos from top left: the Sagamore pool; Chuck in front of one of the Sagamore's many art installations. For more photos from our stay at the Sagamore, click here.  
 
The next evening we went back to Prime 112, one of our favorites. The Bentleys, Rolls and Lamborghinis were all parked up front as we pulled up in our Sebring convertible. For $15, the valet buries your car; for $20, he parks your car nearby; and for $25, your car gets parked in front and did I say it’s cash in advance? I think I smell a skunk…. Anyway, the parking situation may be less than desirable but the scene inside and the food make it all worthwhile. The bar is always packed and you don’t mind waiting there because the people watching and celeb spotting is superb. On past visits, we’ve seen Shaq, Pharrell Williams, Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley. The food is expensive but worth it: it's wonderful American cuisine mixed with comfort food like truffled lobster mac and cheese ($25), braised collard greens with smokey bacon ($13), creamed corn ($13), deviled eggs with white truffle caviar ($18) and Kobe beef sliders ($25). The menu is steak heavy with lots of fish choices as well. An 8-ounce filet is $38, a 16-ounce bone-in filet is $53 and Chilean sea bass is $38. There is seating outside but this is known as Siberia for people who go often. Photos from top left: the always busy bar at Prime 112; two of Prime 112's beautiful hostesses; Prime 112's Brussels sprouts and pancetta; Prime 112's roasted beets with Maytag blue cheese.  

One of my favorite shopping spots is the beautiful mall at Bal Harbour. They have every top designer store imaginable there and I have always found an abundance of cutting edge clothes that I can’t find anywhere else. Maybe it’s the Latin flavor that the store buyers keep in mind when making their choices because the colors are fabulous and always have a sexy edge. They also have one of the best spots in South Florida for lunch — Carpaccio. The Italian food is incredible and the service is perfect. Photos from top left: the beautiful mall at Bal Harbour; is it a shoe or a sculpture?; Oscar de la Renta gown. For more photos from Bal Harbour, click here.    

We all know the sad story surrounding the brutal murder of Gianni Versace on the front steps of his mansion at 1116 Ocean Dr. Tourists have always come here to see the beautiful place that he called home and now for the first time, it is open to the public. There is a wonderful restaurant there called Loftin’s. You can dine on the patio, by the pool, in Versace’s personal dining room (which is completely shell-encrusted) or in the main hall. The night we were there, they were hosting a private party so we dined on the candlelit patio where every table had lovely pale peach roses in crystal vases. They have a six-course tasting menu for $150 and a diverse selection of menu items but I think the most interesting dish was a 7-ounce Blackmore Wagyu strip loin with a shallot marmalade for $175 (which I didn’t have!). Nor did I have the 2005 Chateau Mouton Rothschild for $1,900. I must say though the service was delightful and Dean, our waiter who was a former model, made the evening very memorable for us. The mansion is also available for tours at no charge. You only need a reservation if you have a large party. Photos from top right: Versace's personal shell-encrusted dining room; Loftin's waiter, Dean; Loftin's watercress salad; Loftin's salmon atop Himalayan rock salt; Versace's great room during the private after party.
 
The next afternoon, we went to see the “new” Fontainebleau Hotel and it did NOT disappoint!!!  After a $1 billion renovation, the hotel was unrecognizable and I came here with my mother for 25 years! The hotel has been completely redone—even the pool has been completely reconfigured. It is gorgeous! It has 1,600 rooms, 11 restaurants and a 40,000-square-foot spa. The pool, lobby, restaurants (including Hakkasan, Gotham and Scarpetta) are breathtaking. Look at the photos and see for yourself! Even the staff are adorable….:-) Photos from top left: the Fontainebleau Hotel; the Fontainbleau lobby; an overview of the Fontainebleau pool. For more photos from the Fontainebleau, click here. 

Our next dinner was at Phillippe Chow which is located in the Gansevoort South Hotel (This hotel is getting lots of press lately and one is scheduled for Chicago down the road). The owner, Phillippe Chow, used to work for Mr. Chow in New York and has now opened his own restaurants located in New York, Mexico City and Las Vegas. I must say, having eaten at other Mr. Chow’s that this menu is incredibly similar—some would say copied. It will be very interesting when Mr. Chow opens right next door in the months to come in the soon-to-be-open W Hotel. But I will say that the place is gorgeous with attentive service and unique Chinese food. If you go, order the noodle presentation and you will have a show you won’t believe! The duck was a highlight, too…..The surprise of the night—and there is always one in South Beach—was seeing Jerome “the Bus” Bettis dining at the next table! Keith Richards was spotted at the Gansevoort pool while we were there too…. Photos from top right: Phillippe Chow in the Gansevoort Hotel; Phillippe Chow hostess Stephanie Andron; Jerome "The Bus" Bettis; a view of the Phillippe Chow kitchen. For more photos from Phillippe Chow, click here.
 
And on our final day, we went to our VERY favorite spot for Sunday lunch—La Piaggia!  It was even better than the last time we were there….like St. Tropez in South Beach! Great music, an incredible mix of people and food and wine straight from the South of France. We were so happy to be with our friend and real estate guru, Jeff “Gooch” Gurciullo: He is a legend in South Beach and one of our oldest and dearest friends. If you need any advice on homes or rentals, please e-mail him at jgurciullo@aol.com. La Piaggia owner Robert Pascal, one of the original founders of La Voile Rouge (the hottest beach club in St. Tropez), brings his unique flair and style to this spot on South Point. He even imports the rose wine from his own vineyard in Provence. It is the best I’ve ever tasted—Chateau Barbeiranne 2007, Reserve Robert Pascal, Cotes de Provence. We saw lots of old friends here including Hayley  and Jason Binn from Niche magazine fame. He told me that Michigan Avenue Magazine “is the most successful of all of his magazines.” We also saw one of the top DJs in the world, Jack-ee from the renowned club Les Caves Du Roy in St. Tropez, who I am proud to say had a picture from my 50th birthday party there on his iPhone…..:-))))) I think South Beach is truly the American Riviera and we were very thankful to be there during a cold spell here in Chicago. Thankfully, we have spring in our sights now which makes Chicago the best place in the world to be…… Photos from top right: La Piaggia; manager Alex M., me and La Piaggia owner Robert Pascal; La Piaggia's crudite platter; me, Jason and Hayley Binn and Jeff “Gooch” Gurciullo; Robert Pascal's rose wine Chateau Barbeiranne 2007; La Piaggia's beef carpaccio; St. Tropez Les Caves du Roy DJ Jack-ee; Jo Jo Pariso. For more photos from La Piaggia, click here. 

On a personal note, I want to thank the Playboy editors for quoting my blog in their latest issue! Check out their New Year’s Eve photos and see my quote from Hef that they used on page 10!  
 
Thanks for checking in again and I hope your St. Patrick’s Day was as green as you had hoped it to be! And as usual, I'll leave you with a truly beautiful sight: Check out this Miami sunset! 
 
Love,
Candace :)

CONGRATULATIONS HEARTLAND ALLIANCE!

I attended the Art Against Aids benefit at the River East Art Center on Thursday, February 26th. I attended because of my friend Aaron Baker but I left with a much broader reason for being there: This event supports the 120-year-old institution Heartland Alliance, which strives and succeeds in helping people living in poverty or danger to improve their lives with a focus on supportive services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The honorary co-chairs for this event were Aaron Baker and Princess Kasune Zulu. Aaron is the curator and business development director for Playboy’s Corporate Art Collection. Princess Kasune started her HIV/AIDS activism work in 1997 in her native country, Zambia. After losing both parents to AIDS and testing positive herself, Zulu embarked on a campaign to fight the global AIDS epidemic. Through a nationally-syndicated radio series entitled “Positive Living,” she became a household name and the program received honors from the U.S. Embassy in Zambia for excellence in broadcasting. She has also been lauded by the United Nations Secretary General, former President George W. Bush, former Secretary of State Colin Powell and numerous ambassadors from countries around the world. Steven Zick, vice president and head of office for Christie’s Fine Art Auctioneers in Chicago, conducted the live auction which included works by Sarah Bierman, Richard Lane, Maggie Meiners, Rebecca May, Mel Odom along with a signed lithograph by Ed Paschke. Sara Lee sponsored the event and it was hosted by the Junior Board of the Heartland Alliance. The event attracted over 400 people and raised approximately $100,000. Photos from top right: Art Against Aids benefit at the River East Art Center; honorary co-chair Aaron Baker, Brian Smuts, Eric Han and Steven Zick; honorary co-chair Princess Kasune Zulu and me; Rob LoPrete and David Germaine; Veronica Zepeda; photographer Steve Starr. 
 
Restaurateur Jerry Kleiner seems to be very quiet lately but don’t be fooled. He has three new – well, sort of new – restaurants on the horizon. First of all, he’s retooling Room 21 into an Italian restaurant which will be called Via Ventuno because feels he needs to offer people a less expensive alternative from the old Room 21 in this economy. His spacious outdoor courtyard will be the perfect spot for a pizza oven and the restaurant will be opening in the next three months. He is also opening a new Italian restaurant in Hinsdale which will open the third week in April at 8 First St. But “the most interesting restaurant he’s ever done” (no name yet) will be opening in May at 1419 N. Wells St. (which coincidentally, is my husband’s old building—what a small world!) It will be like an old-time circa 1940s private club except it will be open to the public with “affordable elegance.” Welcome to the ‘hood, Jerry!!!!! I can’t wait…. Photos: Jerry Kleiner; inside Room 21.

Well, it’s about time someone shows some respect for shorter people in the modeling world…Kate Moss (5’7”) can’t be the only one!! Tyra Banks has made a BIG decision for next season’s “America’s Next Top Model” because she is only casting girls 5’ 7” and UNDER! The casting director explains: “Since the show started, we’ve always had girls under 5’ 7” asking and begging, quite frankly, Tyra to please give them a chance,” she says. “I mean, she would get stopped in the street, in restaurants, anywhere, by girls asking how they can do it being as short as they are. We’ve been thinking about it for a while now what a great opportunity to give these girls. The show is all about opportunity—Kate Moss is a prime example.” Although according to Sunny D’s web comment, this isn’t so. “This is just the latest in a long line of gimmicks from Tyra/ANTM. Not one of these girls have gone on to have successful modeling careers. This show routinely casts aspirants who don’t meet the industry standards; then tortures them by making them do tongue-twisters in Catalan, submerge themselves in ice water, shave their heads, jump double-dutch in the nude, and countless other inane stunts that have nothing to do with fashion modeling.” I think Sunny D has Tyra’s number. And since I was called a short 5’ 7” by the world famous model/agent Wilhelmina, I can relate in my own little own way….:-) Maybe getting TV time is enough for these girls….I sure hope so. Photos from top right: Tyra Bank (photo from Getty Images); fashion icon (and "short" model) Kate Moss; ANTM Cycle 3 winner Eva Pigford (currently the shortest "Top Model" winner at 5' 6.5").
 
For more news on the fashion front….congratulations to local designer Sam Kori George for winning the Oscar Design Challenge! George walked the red carpet with model Lauren Gish who was wearing his creation and watched her carry statuettes during the recent Academy Awards. His winning dress was shown at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and may well be in the Chicago History Museum by now. George says, “It would be an honor to donate it to the museum and have it on view there.” Chicago seems to be becoming a real fashion hotspot with all of the media attention that began when First Lady Michelle Obama began wearing Maria Pinto designs (Pinto was also in the running for the Oscar Design Challenge). Recently, W Magazine devoted a two-page spread to local designers and partners, Shane Gabier and Christopher Peters of Creatures of the Wind designs. They debuted their fall 2008 collection that was inspired by “creepy ‘60s communes.” Don’t be scared off, though: They are both highly creative alums of the famed School of the Art Institute. Move over New York because Chicago is ready for its close-up! Photos from top left: Sam Kori George with model Lauren Gish; Maria Pinto and Michelle Obama; Shane Gabier and Christopher Peters.

You never know who you’re going to run into! My friend, Rhonda Sanderson got the chance to meet former President Bill Clinton recently in San Diego where he was keynote speaker at the International Franchise Association’s 49th Annual Convention. Rhonda is a key player in the IFA, having served on the Board of Directors in 2002 and serving the franchise community with her Chicago-based PR firm, Sanderson & Associates since 1984. Congratulations on your great career and your wonderful philanthropic support of PAWS, Joffrey Ballet, Common Threads and many other worthy organizations. Photo: Rhonda Sanderson and former President Bill Clinton at the IFA Convention.

I also want to thank Michigan Avenue Magazine for their wonderful coverage of my winter CandidCandace blog launch party sponsored by Dismero. If you haven’t seen a copy yet, here's a preview (just click the photo to enlarge). Thanks so much for being so supportive, Mich Mag! :)
 
Well, we’re off to South Beach tomorrow so my next blog will be bringing you all of the sights of Miami including fashion, restaurant and hotel trends!
 
Thanks again for checking in! I am now going to leave you to be enchanted by the darling little being that is known as Kingsford.
 
Love,
Candace :)