Candid Candace

HEF, PLAYMATES AND PINUPS IN LA!

The Playboy mystique still thrives and flourishes especially if you were an attendee at Glamourcon 48 recently held in LA. Over 40 Playmates, dozens of calendar pinups and plenty of cyber models gathered together in the Hilton Ballroom for Glamourcon 48 which is the largest pin-up art and glamour convention in the country. Going strong now for 14 years, Bob Schultz is the mastermind behind this unique concept. The first Glamourcon had only one Playboy Playmate in attendance, Susie Owens (February 1988), and boy has it come a long way baby! There were row upon row of gorgeous women signing autographs and taking photos with fans. Many of the Playmates even brought their daughters—Future Playmates in Training perhaps?! Karen Velez (Playmate of the Year 1985) brought her daughter, Nikki Majors. You might recall she was married to the Six Million Dollar Man, Lee Majors. Patti McGuire Connors (Playmate of the Year 1977) brought her gorgeous daughter Aubree and Lorrie Menconi (February 1969) brought her daughter Ashlee Ricci, who is a PB Cyber Girl. Kathy Shower (Playmate of the Year 1986) brought her daughter and Hef’s former girlfriend, Sondra Theodore (1977) even brought her Chihuahua Charlie! It was so much fun to see all of the girls again…..and I must admit some looked better than others but once a Playmate, always a Playmate. Dolores DelMonte (March 1954) and Arline Hunter (August 1954) evoked memories from the early years of Playboy while up at the Mansion we met Hef’s latest girlfriend, Crystal Harris, who will be the December Playmate. Six of us were invited up to the Mansion for Friday’s movie night. The lucky group included Patti McGuire Connors, Debra Jensen (January 1978), Sondra Theodore (1977), Dolores DelMonte, Alison Reynolds Berlinger, Denise Michelle (April 1976), Mary Lou Hamill (who is married to Luke Skywalker, Mark Hamill) and Leann Moen. Patti got a glimpse of the Brown Book which is the mock-up for issues before they go to the publisher and was informed that starting in January, there will be double issues of the magazines….even though there will only be 11 issues, we were told there will still be 12 Playmates. I’m not sure how this will work but I guess we’ll soon see. Anyway, the movie for this night was “Basic Instinct” with Sharon Stone in Blu-Ray. Robert Culp, from “I Spy” fame, was there looking older but still sharp and famous band leader “All the Way Ray” Anthony was there for the fun too. The Rifleman’s “Mark McCain” Johnny Crawford also stayed for the film. My friend Patti and I talked to the girls and took some pics with Hef and then took a tour of his photo gallery on the second floor. I saw the iconic images of the first centerfold of Marilyn Monroe as well as pics of all of his past and present girlfriends including every celeb who has ever stepped foot inside the Mansion doors. There was even a photo of Hef and me roller skating during the 25th Playmate Reunion Party! A lot of the girls had brought items for Hef to sign and he was a real dear to all of us. Patti gave him one of her early St. Louis bunny photos that I had found for her from my own collection of pics while my good friend Larry Armstrong got Hef’s signature on the original Baumgarth Chromolithograph salesman’s sampler that had the photos of the first 14 Playmate’s photos that he had purchased to start the magazine. It was great to see Hef and Mary O’Connor, his right hand lady, again. We didn’t stay for the movie – Patti and I had too much to catch up on. We went to her favorite restaurant, Toscano’s, in Brentwood.

Glamourcon began on Saturday morning and we all met many fans and friends who showed up — some came from as far away as England, such as Simon Thorpe, the great portraitist. Playmate Julie Woodson (April 1973) took a 30-hour train trip from Hutchinson, Kan., just to be there. Patti, Sylvie Garant and I were interviewed on Sirius Radio about what it was like during the Golden Age of Playmates: the 1970’s. We had lots of stories to tell and it was a fun show. It was also nice to see the friendly, familiar faces of long time fans like Wilmer Rivers (he has been to 47 of the 48 Glamourcons), Tom Shimada, Dan Stiffler and Peggy Wilkins. Even the Director of Playmate Promotions, handsome James Gonis, showed up and presented us with new promo photos to sign. That evening, we rounded up the usual suspects for dinner in Beverly Hills at STK (755 N. La Cienega) that included Sylvie Garant (November 1979), Patti Connors, Debra Jensen, Dolores DelMonte, Joe DiCarlo (former owner of the famous Pip’s Nightclub in LA), Jonathan Ryan (floral designer extraordinaire) and Larry Armstrong (Playmate friend and poet). We had a blast with many toasts and then Sunday was the final day of Glamourcon. Some fans had brought box loads of magazines and photos to be signed so it was a busy day for everyone. That evening, Patti, Aubree (her daughter), Sylvie and I went back into Beverly Hills for dinner at Mr. Chow’s. What a wonderful weekend with old friends. It wasn’t easy travelling without Chuck so I am very glad to be back in OZ with the Wizard and the two Totos, Mickey and Rooney. There really is no place like home! For more photos from Glamourcon 48 (many MANY more photos, to be precise) click here!  

Latino Fashion Week was a great success in large part due to the efforts by managing producer Arabel Rosales and her wonderful team of supporters. The week was packed with events beginning with the Hair and Make-Up Wars on Monday where the winner was Salon Salome who put an edge to their talents by incorporating body paint into the mix. Tuesday was the student designer competition where they were all winners but, in the end, Arianna Magana pulled ahead to claim first place. Wednesday was retail day at the Dana Hotel where everyone got a chance to shop their favorite designers and Thursday – Millenial-Gen Y Day – put the focus on families. Friday’s Green Day showcased fashionable and ecologically fabulous clothes and jewelry designs. Saturday’s event welcomed designers from Colombia, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Argentina and Sunday was the finale, “El Fin.” This event featured Chicago designers such as Elda de la Rosa and James Production de Colon to name a few. All of the shows were beautifully staged by Tracey Tarantino of ZZazz Productions. Saturday and Sunday brought out enthusiastic crowds of over 2,500 people. Thanks to Latino Fashion Week for adding even more glamour and excitement to Chicago’s fashion community and to their premier sponsor, AztecAmerica Bank, for their support! And now I will let the photos (most by Steve Starr) speak for themselves! Just click here to see what I'm talking about!  
 
I had the best time Saturday afternoon! Principal Joffrey dancer Fabrice Calmels and I were interviewed on the new Chicago Now Show on WGN radio. The new show (it's only two weeks old) was brilliantly hosted by radio veteran Bill Leff. The show airs on WGN 720 AM usually beginning at 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. but times can vary depending on sporting events. The show will feature various Chicago Now bloggers talking about what they know best and topics range from sports to etiquette to what to expect on the CTA! Chicago Now’s editorial director Tracy Schmidt appeared too---I think she needs her OWN show! Fabrice’s blog is called “Come Dance with Fabrice Calmels” and gives an insider’s look at the world of dance. Here are podcasts from our interview on Saturday with Bill Leff. Hope you enjoy it! Part 1 Part 2

There are a lot of terrific events on the horizon so let’s get right to it! On Wednesday, I will be hosting a cookbook launch party with the “Small Threads” from Common Threads at the Omni Chicago Hotel (they have graciously underwritten this event). The cookbook, entitled Eat the World: Good-for-You Food for Families, will be available for sale for only $20--just in time for Christmas! There will also be aprons for sale AND, the best part is, the “Small Threads” will be there signing their little books! The book features recipes that the students cook together in class and the party will feature one of these recipes as well as fabulous food created by Chef Daven Wardynski for their 676 Restaurant. Space is limited to 80 people so if you can’t attend the party but would still like to purchase a cookbook, please call 312-329-2501 ext. 200. The “Small Threads” will really appreciate your support! :) Please RSVP by December 15th to [email protected]. (BTW, Chef Daven will also be participating in World Festival on March 1st.) 

And speaking of World Festival, this year’s event (on Monday, March 1st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Soldier Field) will be even more special than years past since this will be Art Smith’s 50th birthday celebration too! I’ve been privy to some of the planning and I will just tell you that this year will be over the top with surprises! Over 60 chefs from across the globe will be flying in to make Chef’s birthday and World Festival one we won’t soon forget! There will also be a Sunday supper birthday party the evening before by invitation only. General admission tickets are $250 and VIP tickets are $500 (which will include access to Art’s swanky Southern-style lounge and an invitation to the exclusive after-party at the James Hotel). For more info and tickets, please visit www.commonthreads.org. 

The World of Chocolate returns to the Hilton Chicago on Thursday, December 3rd. This event benefits the Aids Foundation of Chicago and features chocolate creations from dozens of Chicagoland’s finest restaurants, caterers and chocolatiers. There will also be a light buffet, open bar, chocolate martinis (of course!) and entertainment! I am honored to be a judge this year…I just hope my tummy can take it! I also hope to see all of you there for this fun and worthy event! Tickets start at $75. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit www.aidschicago.org/events or call 312-922-2322. I’m already starting to feel like Willy Wonka!

Don’t forget The Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker begins on Friday, December 11th through 27th. This is Robert Joffrey’s production and it’s a wonderfully traditional way to start off the season! For tickets and more info, please visit www.Joffrey.org. And for an added bonus, use the promotional code "CANDID" to receive a 10-percent discount on Nutcracker tickets!

And last but not least, the Service Club of Chicago’s annual Christmas luncheon (perfectly organized by Chicago’s own Hazel Barr) will be at the Elysian this year on Tuesday, December 1st. There will be lots of shopping opportunities as well as entertainment by the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. and the luncheon will begin at 12:15 p.m. Tickets are $60 and guests are asked to bring gift items such as men’s and women’s toiletries, undergarments, warm weather clothing or cash in any increments that will be distributed to the National Alliance for Mental Illness. For tickets and more info, please contact Julie Elmore at 630-730-1780. 

I never like to end my blog on a sad note, but I want to express my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the family of Michael Scott. I adored him and his beautiful wife Diana and was proud to call them friends. I ran into them at many charity events around town and they always had electrical sparks above their heads with all of the love they had for each other. I first met Michael when he introduced the “Having a Ball” ballroom dance program to Chicago area schools and I was on the host committee (thanks to Dori Wilson). I also brought him to a recent Common Threads luncheon where he offered the Executive Director Linda O’Keefe his card and promised to try to help. He was one of the kindest and gentlest men I’ve ever met. I can’t believe he would choose to end his life…he loved his family too much. I don’t care how much evidence they have to the contrary, I will never believe it.

Hold your family and loved ones close and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I missed you all.

Love,
Candace
[email protected]

P.S.Congrats to Jim Smith for not only completing his Willis Tower climb for the Rehab Institute but for also being one of the top money makers!

MICHAEL KORS ROCKS 900 SHOPS WITH OPENING PARTIES!

The Magnificent Mile turned into the “Magnificent Michael Kors Mile” recently for the VIP opening party and fashion show at The 900 Shops. The by-invitation only VIP party began at 6:30 p.m. and, by party standards, it was a pretty intimate affair. About 75 guests mixed and mingled with Michael (a real charmer!) and gorgeous store manager, Tory Beneke, who was beaming. Michael is my favorite designer: His clothes are not trendy but very chic and timeless. Some of the guests were even wearing 10-year-old Kors and you would have never known. The store itself is gorgeous and modern with white leather furniture and beautiful fur throws thrown casually over the sofas (Michael said he patterned it after his own apartment). At 7:30 p.m., the hosts – who included Linda Johnson Rice, Amanda Puck, Toni Canada, Julie Lampert and moi – and Michael took photos on the red carpet prior to being seated for the runway show. I was so excited to be included and even though we were all co-hosts, Amanda Puck and her crack team from Experiential did all of the heavy lifting to put the event together in very grand style! The crowd of about 250 was very excited for the fashion show and party segment. Finally, everyone was seated and the music began – it made me want to go immediately to a club and dance...lots of Lady Gaga. And then the models came out clad in gorgeous spring dresses in dreamy sherbet shades with zippers and plastic cut-outs accessorized with clear Lucite jewelry that captured the light and made you feel like you were in South Beach. The heels were strappy and high, some with gold accents and some classic with black and carmel. Information on the Lucite seats described the collection as “urbane renewal…sleek architectural shapes….the counterbalance of crisp and soft….slashed openings and translucency reveal the body….asymmetry and sharp angles….luminous Lucite and silver accents, architectural clutch…sculptural sandals, pumps and oxfords….the rites of spring.” The men's clothes were interesting but I couldn't think of any male friends who could wear them. Lots of sleeveless jackets that you needed big guns to carry off with any effect. Click here to view more photos!

Overall, the show included so many wearable and chic looks that the women at the intimate brunch the following morning with Michael were literally throwing their credit cards at darling sales manager, Gregg Zgonena. The brunch was hosted by Whitney Lasky and included 34 of the city’s most sociable women.  They included Michaela Parillo, Dusty Stemer, Lynn McMahan, Robin Berger, Rebecca Besser, Noren Ungaretti, Toni Canada, Mary Lasky, Melissa Babcock, Sophie Bross, Marsha Brenner, Gale Gottlieb, Sherren Leigh, Vonita Reescer, Sherrill Bodine, Sarah Stratton, Amy Koch, Shauna Montgomery, Shelley Farley, Natacha Isaacs, Mary Kay DeMaio, Mary Ann Murphy (who flew in from LA for the occasion), Sheryle Bellick, Marty Higgins, Micah Materre, Jennifer Oppenheimer, Kristina McGrath and Dori Wilson. The brunch, catered to perfection by Rachel Schwanz and The Entertaining Company, consisted of yogurt with granola, lavender honey and fresh berries served inside a golden eggshell, lemon ricotta pancakes, cranberry currant scones, chocolate filled croissants (baked onsite), smoked salmon with dill crème fraiche and caviar. After brunch, the resort line was shown. This collection included dramatic patterns, one-shouldered flowing gowns that you could wear to a black tie party or to the beach as well as oversized hammered gold necklaces and Nefertiti style bracelets. Michael offered three different dress lengths and said the length you choose depends on whether or not you like your legs and also your heel height. He demonstrated how you could change the look completely with the addition of a wide gold belt or a slim black belt as well as throwing a shrug over a cocktail dress and instantly making it daytime chic. I wanted to buy everything I saw but settled for some of the beautiful oversized gold jewelry and his latest version of the little black dress which I wore the night before for the opening. Guests at the evening event included Gale Gottlieb, Gretchen Jordan, Sugar Rautbord, Chaz Ebert, Shauna Montgomery, Helen Melchior, Nicole Jacob, Cindy Burns, Judge Mary Pat Burns, Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Christopher Conway, Coco Meers, Barbara Kipper, Paul Iacono, John Regas, Astra Gamsjaeger, Corinne Melchior, Margaret O'Connor, Jan Melk, Noren Ungaretti, Michaela Parillo, Rebecca Besser, Sharyl Mackey, Lynn McMahan, Dusty Stemer, Sophie Bross, Jannie and Elliot Pearlman, Ricardo Santiago, Trevian Kutti, Rochelle Smith with Chef Charlie Trotter, Connie and Katherine Saville, George Fuller, Gwen Callans, Dawn Mattozzi, Rhonda Sanderson, Samantha Amato, Amalie Drury, Graham Kostic, Mary Kay DeMaio, Mary Ann Murphy, Andrea Schwartz, Melissa and Rich Gamble, John Walcher, Tina and Jeff Weller, Scott Bobek, Peggy Martay, Dorothy Whealan, Shia Kapos, Laura Barnett,  Dennis Minkle, Lyndsie Jackson, Lynne Bredfeldt, Maureen Lampert and David Lampert among others. Welcome to Chicago, Michael Kors…we are thrilled you’re finally here!!!!! (Additional photos by Caitlin Saville and Rush Zimmerman.) Click here for more images!

Shaun Rajah is breathing new life into the Drake Hotel’s Palm Court. He is a one-man marketing team and he has so many ideas I can’t imagine when he ever sleeps. For one particular event, I was lucky enough to participate. Shaun organized a special afternoon tea and fashion show that celebrated women age 50 and above from all different walks of life called “50 & Beautiful.” The event honored Breast Cancer Awareness Month and proceeds benefitted the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Featured fashions included Mira of Mira Couture, Elizabeth M., Quinton de' Alexander, Lily of Trieste, Joy Scott Milliner with jewelry by Sophia Forero. It was a fun day and it was nice seeing fellow models Sheryl Dyer, Dorothy Whealan, Cookie Cohen, Juell Kadet, Michelle Sutton Yeadon, Marlene Laport, Joan Sosano and Jolanta Reuge. Also on display this day was the photography by breast cancer crusader, Maude Metcalfe. The Palm Court began serving afternoon tea during 1982 and has served dignitaries such as the late Princess Diana and Hilary Clinton. In 1958, Queen Elizabeth had tea at the Drake as well as the Empress of Japan in 1970. Shaun is continuing this tradition and adding his own special touches too. “Catwalk Fridays” have been held every Friday during the spring, summer and fall and introduces new designers as well as more established ones from our area. “Palm Court Holiday Happenings” start November 27th and runs through January 3rd. There will be live entertainment with holiday carolers as well as their legendary tea service. Huge congrats to my friend Shaun Rajah for all of his hard work and great ideas! For more info and to book a reservation, please call Shaun at 312-371-0231. (Additional pics by Steve Starr.) View more photos here!
 
For the first time in its 53-year history, The Joffrey Ballet offered one-of-a-kind costumes to the public during its “Costume Vault Sale” earlier this month. More than 200 men’s and women’s costumes were sold with prices beginning at $25. Executive Director Christopher Clinton Conway said, “My favorite was a royal blue jacket circa 1920 that was one of two pieces owned by the company from a production of a ballet by Russian choreographer Leonide Massine. It had these beautifully decorative closures and would cost between $8,000 and $9,000 to have that jacket made today.” It was priced at $100! Many of the elaborate costumes also had the dancer’s names stitched into them for a personal connection. Buyers at the event reminded me of the Filene Basement’s wedding dress sale. The beautiful pieces flew off the racks and believe me, buyers all got great deals. I saw some of the garlanded headpieces and I wished I had arrived earlier….they were all gone by the time I got there. Some lucky little girls will be getting wonderful Christmas presents from the Joffrey Ballet! The event was, obviously, a big success with almost 580 shoppers during the two day event and raised $27,300 for the Joffrey Ballet! Congrats to co-chairs Corinne Melchior, Gretchen Klotz and Nico Rodriguez for the wonderful job they did for their first event for the newly formed Joffrey Circle Associates Board. Don’t miss the next Joffrey performance, “The Nutcracker,” beginning on December 12th.

Glamourcon 48 will be held in L.A. on November 14th and 15th at the Hilton LAX. Described as pinup and glamour at its finest, you may recall from past info, that it was also held in Chicago in August. For the LA convention, there will be the largest line-up of Playboy Playmates ever, 39 and counting. There will be eight Playmates of the Year including Patti Connors (1977), Karen Velez (1985), Kathy Shower (1986), India Allen (1988), Julie Cialini (1995), Brande Roderick (2001), Kara Monaco (2006) and Ida Ljungvist (2009). Playmates attending from the Golden Age of Playboy, the 70’s, include Julie Woodson (4/73), Patti McGuire (11/76), Sondra Theodore (7/77), Debra Jensen (1/78), Sylvie Garant (11/79) and moi (12/79). There will even be two Playmates from Playboy’s early days, Dolores DelMonte (3/54) and Arline Hunter (8/54). Irina Voronina and Penelope Jiminez just confirmed too. It will be great to see Hef and my fellow Playmate friends again! BTW, Hef Twittered recently that Holly Madison will have her own reality show set in Las Vegas called “Holly’s World,” which is due to air after “Girls Next Door.” For info on Glamourcon, go to www.glamourcon.com. Amy Koch gave me a great L.A. restaurant recommendation, Phillippe, which I can’t wait to try! Thanks, Amy! If YOU have a favorite, please e-mail me and let me know!)
 
The Chopping Block was the venue of choice for this year’s “Taste of TCW.” It was emceed by Steve Dolinsky of “The Hungry Hound” and organized to perfection by Managing Editor Cassandra Gaddo, Lauren Rafferty and Rebecca Michuda to benefit the TCW Foundation. There was a chef competition between Radhika Desai, Jennifer Gavin and Elaina Vasquez and Radhika was judged the winner by Carol Haddix (writer for the “Good Eating” section of the Chicago Tribune), Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Café and Ken Norgan. As part of her prize, Radhika will be featured in an upcoming issue of TCW. There was a great turnout and guests included Tiffani Kim and Brad Griffith, Victor Skrebneski, Susan Ellefson, Brooke Skinner (who will be featured in the upcoming Fabulous Singles article), Charlene Gorzela, Carrie Lannon, Joy Germont, Brenda Sexton, Dennis Minkel, Greg Hyder, Tsi-tsi-ki Felix, Andrew Hayes, Pat Borg, Dori Wilson, John and Christine Garcia, Sarah Levy, Rebecca Taras, Matt Lee, Millie and John Simon, Lindsay Hays, Laura Westgate and Adel Tarakdijian. For more photos, click here!

And now a personal note….my friend Jim Smith will be climbing all 103 floors of the Willis Tower on Sunday, November 15th in support of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause and his efforts on its behalf, please click here for more information. Congrats Jim and GOOD LUCK! 
 
Congratulations are in order for Kate Gaynor on her wedding to Tim Dickey. They were married last month at the Fourth Presbyterian in a lovely ceremony. She announced the happy news at the Service Club of Chicago’s annual gala – La Bella Notte – Saturday night which was chaired to perfection by Kathy Crane and Cathy Smith. Congrats Kathy, Cathy and Kate-- you make a beautiful bride, girlfriend! :)
 
And speaking of congratulations, WGN’s own Micah Materre has officially assumed the 9 p.m. anchor spot as of November 5th! She was formerly the noon anchor and is also the host of “Chicago’s Very Own.” We are so happy for you Micah and we’ll be watching!! :)
 
Please don’t forget the Stepping Up in the City event on Thursday, November 13th at the Hotel Sax (333 N. Dearborn) from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. As I mentioned last week, this is a wonderful and much needed national mentoring program for women and girls. Come on Thursday to learn more about it. Tickets are $35 and for more info, click here.
 
I don’t normally like to use ads for my video closers but this one was just too creative to pass up! I hope you enjoy it because let’s face it, who doesn’t need a bit of whimsy in their lives? It also serves as a warning if you’re ever around Loch Ness!
 
That’s it for this week! Candid Candace will return on Tuesday, November 24th with lots of fun news and photos so stay tuned! 
 
Love,
Candace :)
[email protected]

CHICAGO MAGAZINE CHOOSES FIVE “MEN TO WATCH!”

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

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

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

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

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

Candace :)

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