PLUS MARCO'S GRINCH STRIKES AGAIN; PEARL TAVERN OPENS BIG; CHICAGO BULLS CELEBRATE BRIGHT PINK; RASHIED DAVIS BOWLS FOR CHARITY; SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW; JAPONAIS BY MORIMOTO FOR COMMON THREADS; SPEX GAMBLES FOR LITTLE CITY; "BLACK & WHITE" GALA FOR CANINE THERAPY; MAKE-A-WISH'S WOMEN'S NETWORK GALA; ILLINOIS CENTERS FOR BROADCASTING'S ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING SEMINAR; ANTIQUES AT THE PIER; NEW VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
It’s a busy time of year for retired Chicago Cub Kerry Wood and wife Sarah. They recently surprised 482 students at Lawndale Elementary Community Academy when they transformed its gymnasium into a Winter- Wonderland complete with Santa and his elves. Each child received a new coat and toy as a result of Principal Willard Willette’s success in leading the school for four years with continuous substantial improvements. And now Sarah and Kerry, with a little help from their high profile friends, have just finished hosting their 3rd annual Woody’s Winter Warm-Up Celebrity Mixer which took place on Friday, January 17th at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier. The Warm-Upwas emceed by radio personality Pete McMurray and 24/7 television host Catie Keogh and showcased Chicago Cubs (past and present), celebrities and media personalities as they guest-bartended mixing drinks and competing for tips to raise money for the Wood Family Foundation. Participants included Anna Davlantes, Allison Rosati , Kathy Hart (Eric & Kathy), Eric Ferguson (Eric & Kathy), Ryan Chiaverini (Windy City LIVE), David Kaplan (Comcast SportsNet), PeggyKusinski (NBC), Lou Canellis (Fox), Sarah Spain (ESPN radio), Rob Johnson (CBS), Showbiz Shelley (B96), Danni Allen (winner of The Biggest Loser), Jeanne Sparrow (WCIU), Whitney Reynolds (The Whitney Reynolds Show), Mindie Kaplan (Happy Hour with Mindie), Jane Monzures(FM 101), Kelly Crull (Comcast). Cubs in attendance included Starlin Castro, Mark Prior, Jim Bullinger, Theo Epstein, Edwin Jackson, Brooks Raley, Anthony Rizzo, Jeff Samardzija, Junior Lake, James Russell, Welington Castillo, Justin Ruggiano and Carlos Villanueva,. The evening also featured an amazing silent auction filled with unique sports memorabilia, a premium open bar, a dinner buffet, raffle, a DJ and awesome live performances. There was a special solo performance by Robert Randolph, pedal steel guitarist whose American funk and soul sounds have entertained audiences across the country since 2001. “The past two Warm-Ups have attracted an amazing crowd and featured musicians William Beckett, Plain White T’s, Dave Mason, DJ White Shadow and DJ Greg Corner and this year was another great time to benefit the kids!” said Wood. The night was a fun-filled affair with guests mixing and mingling with their favorite sports stars and media personalities. Governor Quinn spoke to the crowd and thanked the Woods for their continuing support of kids in the community. A live auction included a spring training package, a signed performance art piece by Elliott From, and the chance to win a place on the celebrity wiffle ball team for the upcoming "Wiffle for a Diffle" event in Wrigley Field on August 15. Additionally, throughout the month of January, Harry Caray’s Tavern Navy Pier will be serving up “Woody’s Smokin Pitch” winter cocktail to help raise money for WFF and its programs. Made with Avion silver tequila, fresh lime juice, agave nectar and topped with a sliced jalapeno pepper, the drink will donate 100% of sales back to the foundation! So drink UP! The Wood Family Foundation (WFF) is a non-profit organization that was founded in June 2011 by Kerry and Sarah Wood. The WFF works to improve the lives of children in and around Chicago by raising funds and awareness for children’s charities and the causes they support. The WFF acts as an advocate for children in the Chicago community, inspiring others to join them in their mission of giving children the resources they need to succeed. (For more info, click here www.woodfamilyfoundation.org) Keep up the great work Kerry and Sarah! (Fab photos by Mila Samokhina)
Beloved philanthropist-around-town, Marco Foster, hosted yet another great event for a good cause! His third annual "The Grinch Who Gave Back Christmas" attracted more than 350 guests to Underground for a party to benefit the Brain Injury Association of Illinois. This organization is near and dear to Marco's heart since he is a brain tumor survivor himself. "It was scary, but I had my family and friends around me the whole time. Not everyone has the happy ending I did, and this organization provides wonderful support and resources for those who need them," said Foster. The event featured holiday-themed cocktails and photos with the Grinch himself, as well as The Grinchette. Guests could watch scenes from "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" on a custom 40-foot HD video wall. Notable attendees included Jonny Immerman (founder of Immerman Angels), Whitney Reynolds (Whitney Reynolds Show) and Alicia Roman (NBC-5 Chicago meteorologist). The Brain Injury Association of Illinois provides information, advocacy and support for individuals with traumatic brain injuries, their families and professionals who treat them. (Photos by Ray Thompson, Francis Son and Murad Namik)
The Chicago Bulls celebrated its first “Health & Wellness Night” on January 13 in a game with the Washington Wizards. The Bulls welcomed staff and volunteers from Bright Pink to the game as representatives of the team’s community partners who focus on health and wellness. Bright Pink is the only national non-profit focused on prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women. Their life-saving education and support programs empower young women to be proactive with their breast and ovarian health. Bright Pink volunteers were on hand providing fans with information on breast and ovarian health. “The Bulls organization always look for opportunities to encourage our fans to live healthy and active lifestyles,” said Nancy Reinsdorf, President of Chicago Bulls Charities. “The Bulls are proud to work with organizations like Bright Pink that are so passionate about the health of Chicagoans and to celebrate these partners during Health & Wellness Night.” (For more info, visit www.Bulls.comand www.brightpink.org )
Rashied Davis Charities is hosting its second annual "Bowling for Brighter Tomorrows" event to support Saturday Place, its academic enrichment program, on Sunday, January 26. Former Bears wide receiver, Rashied Davis, will host the event with attendees expected to include many of his former teammates as well as other players and media personalities such as Anthony Adams, James Loving, James "Big Cat" Williams, Jason McKie, Jim Cornelison and Ray McElroy. The party will be hosted by News Radio 780's Jeff Joniak with a special guest appearance by Jarrett Payton. Lanes can be purchased for $2500 with individual tickets prices at $100. (To learn more about Rashied Davis Charities, Saturday Place and ways to get involved, visit www.SaturdayPlace.org).
Under the category of "Someone You Should Know", beloved children's book author Joe Brown (father of the famed makeup expert Bobbi) has been donating his time and services around the world reading to the kids! He offers signed copies of his popular children's book series, "The Flights of Marceau", and also donates the entire 7 book set for each school's library. He's delighted kids in NY, throughout Illinois, Arizona, California and all the way to Ho Chi Minh City with many stops in between. He's planning his 2014 calendar now so if you know of any schools or worthy children's causes where he might bring his loving brand of entertainment, please contact him at [email protected] .....
As you are probably aware, Japonais has been undergoing some renovation and rebranding work and, when they reopen their doors at the end of the month, their new concept, Japonais by Morimoto, will be revealed! Critically acclaimed Japanese Chef and star of Food Network’s Iron Chef and Iron Chef America, Masaharu Morimoto is heading to Chicago as the new face behind Japonais! In an effort to fully immerse himself in the Chicago food scene, Morimoto has invited some of Chicago’s finest chefs to join him for the evening to serve small bites to some 250 guests. The Launch Party will be on Wednesday, January 29, from 6-9 pm with proceeds from the evening benefitting Common Threads. VIP access allows for table service and special seating as well as a complimentary bottle of champagne. There are 8 VIP tables available that fit 6 to 8 per table and 2 private dining areas available, one seats 8 and the other up to 14. To book a table, contact Common Threads’ Event Coordinator, Robin Vance at [email protected] or call 312.462.0722. For tickets and more info, click here and be the first to welcome Morimoto to our wonderful city!
On Sunday, January 26, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago will host its 13th Annual d'Vine Affair, a premier wine tasting event that will be held at the Union League Club of Chicago on Sunday, January 26, from 2-6 pm. Benefitting Catholic Charities' self-sufficiency programs, the event will feature educational seminars, tastings, a silent auction and a prize raffle followed by a 3-course dinner. Expecting more than 500 attendees, the annual event is hosted by Monsignor Michael Boland, president of Catholic Charities, along with event founders Joseph and Helen Glunz of Louis Glunz Wines, Inc. and co-chairs John and Teddi Scholz. (Tickets are $125 with an additional $80 for the 3-course dinner. www.catholiccharities.net/dvine .
We attended a fabulous preview over the weekend of hot new Loop restaurant/bar, Pearl Tavern (located at 180 N. Wacker). It was jam-packed with beautiful people enjoying tasty selections from Chef Chris Lorenz that included every type of oyster you could imagine, lobster rolls, tuna bites and so much more! Restaurant developer Adolfo Garcia has revived the classic All-American seafood eatery and oyster bar in this beautiful new space (that used to be Coogan's) by preserving the original hardwood floors and restoring the vintage ceilings. Guests dined at ornate bistro tables with Carrera marble, gold brass lighting and the Chicago River as the backdrop. (Outdoor seating will be available in the summer). Chef Lorenz' menu includes oysters from the east and west coasts, a rotating crudo bar with a carpaccio and tuna poke, razor clams with fennel and trout roe, swordfish au poivre, grilled octopus, crab churros and a Connecticut-style lobster roll. It was a great "shucking"experience! (www.PearlTavern.com)
GET YOUR POKER FACE ON! Spex, one of Chicago’s premier destinations for luxury eyewear, joins with Little City Foundation on Friday, March 7th, from 6:00pm to 12:30am, to present “Seeing Hope Together.” This is the second year of sponsorship for this exciting poker tournament and casino night fundraiser that will be at The Montgomery Club, located at 500 W. Superior Street, Chicago. The evening will support children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Iconic fashion eyewear collections and eyewear accessories will be informally modeled and showcased during the festivities. Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse will provide a lavish, all-night buffet for guests to enjoy plus there will be a premium open bar, exciting raffle, and swag bags as part of this special gaming for a cause event. Michael Caputo, Director of Marketing, expressed pride with the continuing partnership: “We had a great crowd last year; the ballroom was buzzing with excitement! And Spex remains energized in supporting Little City’s commitment to change lives. We’re particularly proud of our association with an Illinois organization whose core advocacy – simply stated, sees hope. It’s our shared Chicago roots -- as well as our standard of care and wellness, that makes our committed partnership a winning hand!" (For tickets and more info, please click here!)
The Make-A-Wish Women’s Network, a newly formed women’s board for the foundation, will host its inaugural fundraiser, Women, Wine & Wishes on Thursday, February 20, at New Leaf (1818 N. Wells St.) This cocktail themed party will honor several women in the Chicago community that have helped the organization with identifying and facilitating the wishes of children with life threatening illnesses: Alyssa Hock, Joni Lamb, Jennifer Loewy, Dr. Elaine Morgan and Andrea Schwartz. Make-A-Wish granted over 700 wishes last year and continues to make dreams come true. Contrary to what many people have heard, a child doesn’t need to have a terminal illness to qualify. In fact, there are many more survivors who grow up to lead extraordinary lives, sometimes in professions directly related to their wish. ( For tickets and more info, click here!)
A special shout-out and thanks to Chicago Now blogger/author Nicole Kane Knepper for this interview! We talked for more than an hour at Tempo recently for a column she'll be posting on her blog on Friday. I was honored to be chosen by this incredibly funny writer who puts her heart and soul into every post! Her blog, "Moms Who Drink & Swear" is a must-read! Hope you enjoy the fun-filled (silly) video below!
If you love antiques as much as I do then you won't want to miss Opening Night of the Chicago International Art, Antique & Jewelry Show on Thursday, April 24, presented by the Palm Beach Show Group and hosted by the Women's Board of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Held for the first time at Navy Pier's Festival Hall, the event will give guests a "first look" at treasures from around the world. The show will run from 4/25 to 4/28. For tickets and more info, click here or call 561.822.5440.
Thanks so much to Tina Weller for bringing "One: The Benefit" to my attention! This fundraiser, hosted by the Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club, will be held on Saturday, February 22, at Skyline Loft, 1200 W. 35th Street, in Chicago. Eric Ferguson, Ben Bradley and Mike Schimmel will emcee alongside DJs Lee Michaels, Megan Taylor and Alvin Black. The event will benefit Hephzibah Children's Association, Oak Park’s oldest charity. The organization was founded in 1897 by Mary Wessels who opened her home to children from a nearby orphanage that had been destroyed by fire. Responding to a need in the community, Mary continued to welcome youngsters into her home and made it her mission to “care for society’s most vulnerable children.” (For tickets and more info, click here!)
Congratulations to John Kelly, founder of A Meal to Heal. This new non-profit provides meals at popular restaurants for families following the loss of a loved one to help with the healing process. John conceived this idea after the loss of his dad in 2005. A meal at Bob Chinn's with his siblings provided such a sense of bonding and healing that he wanted other families who have experienced loss to be able to have this same type of support. "This is my way of grieving and dealing with the loss of my parents. We grew up with a focus on cooking and dining and I thought others might benefit as well," said Kelly. Past endeavors have supported families of servicemen lost with meals at Francesca's. For the month of January, Standard Market Grill in Lincoln Park will donate 10% of sales to www.AMealToHeal.org . Good luck John!
The Canine Therapy Corps Young Professionals Board will host its 3rd annual Spring Gala, "Black & White", to benefit Canine Therapy Corps (CTC) on Saturday, March 8 at Revel Downtown, 440 W. Randolph. (CTC providesinteractive animal-assisted therapy services and support for people in need). Festivities will include hors d'oeuvres, a silent-auction and photo ops with the CTC dogs! Watch this website for tickets and more info or contact Will Wagner at 847-962-4743 ( [email protected]).
I'll be teaching my 3rd entertainment seminar for the Illinois Center for Broadcasting on Wednesday, February 5th. If you're interested in entertainment reporting and interview techniques, please join me!
Congrats to founder Kathleen Casey on the good work she's doing with Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. I was thrilled to see the young artists hard at work creating beautiful original pieces to auction off at our upcoming Bear Tie Ball on March 8! Hope you can come! (For tickets and more info, please click here!) (Photos by Mila Samokhina).
I loved Nico at the Thompson Hotel! Great food and ambiance and I was so happy to see GM Steve Shern and assistant director of catering Mimi Lopez! I celebrated Sheila O'Grady and Dr. Stacie McClane's birthdays with Mary Pat Burns, Tracey Tarantino, Sheryl Dyer, Jean Antoniou and Sharyl Mackey. We all loved the experience from beginning to end! Happy, happy birthday Sheila and Stacie!
That's all the news for this week! Hope there's an event here you want to wrap your arms around! Until next time, thanks for checking in!
Love, as always,
Candace :-)
P.S. Don't forget our little furry friends in need, too!
PLUS THE JENNY AND DONNIE INTERVIEW ON WATCH312; A NEW GUEST BLOGGER; ALL ABOARD!; ABC 7'S LIVE NYE COVERAGE; PUBLIC CHICAGO'S NYE WITH HEBRU AND THE BULLS; EAT AND DRINK TO THE BEAT AT THE HARRIS; REDMOON'S SPECTACLE LUNATIQUE (VIDEO!); BORRIS POWELL'S "FREEDOM" FASHION SHOW (VIDEO); FANTASY OF THE OPERA; 10 FAVORITE VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT IDEAS AND SO MUCH MORE!
Welcome to 2014! I hope your year is off to a great start! There were so many wonderful parties around town and I hope you enjoyed hearing about the plans of the movers & shakers in my last blog (if you missed it, click here). We missed the New Year's Eve Party this year with Hef and Crystal at the Playboy Mansion. The invite was so cute as the night also celebrated their one-year anniversary. We used to attend these parties with my beautiful friend, Patti Connors and her handsome husband, legendary tennis player, Jimmy. Patti was Playboy's 1977 Playmate of the Year and is one of the most gorgeous women I know. They have two beautiful children Aubree and Brett who I've known since they were born.
Brett has become quite a well known photographer who also does production work for ESPN Sports. He got interested in photography when his dog Bentley got sick. He felt the need to document his every move but, happily, Bentley is just fine and now Brett has a brand new hobby/career path! His favorite subjects are nature and animals but he rocks sporting events too, of course! The highlight of his career was having one of his photos used as the cover of his dad Jimmy Connor's exciting autobiography "The Outsider: A Memoir". When I asked him how it was growing up with such famous parents, he answered, "It was pretty normal to be honest. My parents are just normal people who happen to have been in the public eye but, growing up at home, they were just mom and dad for me and my sister Aubree. My father traveled a lot which was tough because he would be gone all the time but, at the same time, it was awesome because I got to go on the road with him a lot. Dad's the guy who I go to when I need advice and runs me around on the tennis court and mom cooks me the best meals ever and always makes me laugh. I'm so lucky to have them for parents." When asked what his hopes for the future were for his photography he said, "Leaving something behind is the coolest aspect of art to me, it's timeless, it can last forever." His dream is to go on safari and possibly do some stuff for National Geographic. "I would love to be camped out somewhere and catch a glimpse of something rare!" I can't wait to see the places he'll go with his amazing talent! (To see more of Brett's work and for more info, email him at [email protected])
Since Brett has been attending Hef's parties since he was young, I thought he would be the perfect candidate to cover this year's NYE party for my blog so here's his delightful boots-on-the-ground report:
I remember it like it was yesterday, I had just turned 21 and I was invited to my first Playboy Mansion party!! It would have been sooner but my mother (a former Playmate of the Year) made me wait until I was of legal drinking age until she unleashed me to the wonderland that is Playboy Mansion West! It was everything I had imagined and then some, a surreal world of colors, music and of course, beautiful women, most walking around wearing very little while trying to out-do one another as to who could wear the least amount of clothing and gain the most attention! My head was on a swivel all night long and I remember seeing girls I recognized from the magazine left and right, some wearing nothing more than body paint as their outfit! I had a blast and, by the end of the night, I remember Hugh Hefner himself leaning over to me and whispering, "Hey Brett, you're on “the list” now!"
At the time I didn't know exactly what that meant, but what Hef was telling me was that I was now a part of the Playboy family and would be invited back whenever they threw a big party, had a Sunday movie night or went out for a night on the town! I was told there was only one stipulation: Stay away from the blondes, those are for Mr Hefner! Ok, I could handle that....I had always been partial to brunettes anyway, and since Hef had 7 blonde girlfriends at the time, I figured that was a small sacrifice to be able to run with this crew!
The next few years I spent a good amount of my free time at the Playboy Mansion, whether it was Valentines Day, Fourth of July, or Hef's birthday. What I realized was that Hef's friends were quite a bit older than me which gave me a leg up when it came to meeting the girls since I was much closer to their age. I became good friends with some of the (non-blonde!) girls, and it really did feel like a small family. I couldn't believe it, I was in my mid 20's and a regular at the Playboy Mansion! People always talk about the heyday of the Mansion being the 70's, but the early mid 2000's weren't so bad either! The parties Hef threw were the stuff that legends are made of. He spared no expense when it came to the food and entertainment and he's one of the most generous, welcoming people I have ever met! Besides creating the Playboy lifestyle, Hugh Hefner is a pioneer in the world of journalism and there will never be anyone like him again. He paved the way for so many people to gain opportunities and it didn't matter your age, race, or sex. Even though I came to the Playboy world late, I respected and appreciated all that it stood for and was happy to be a small part of it!
Eventually, Hef got more serious when it came to his relationships and the parties. While he was still hosting parties, they were getting a little smaller and less crazy than my first few years. I still visited but only a few times a year for the big parties, such as Mid-Summer Night's Dream and Halloween. But no matter how long I was away, I was always welcomed back with open arms by my Playboy family, and would enjoy seeing my friends and meeting any new additions to the crew!
This brings me to my most recent visit to PBMW, New Years Eve 2014! While the attire for New Year's isn't as casual as the other parties, I figured it gave me a chance to get dressed up in my black-tie attire and strut my stuff! When I arrived, I saw familiar faces that were there that fateful night over 13 years ago when I made my first appearance. Hef is very loyal to his friends. Through thick and thin, they're his friends to the end and are always there supporting him! The last night of 2013 was a doozy once again. Hef spared no expense in setting up his "playground for adults." He put a giant tent in his backyard and decorated it to the 9's! There was great food served and plenty of booze for those who liked to wet their whistle to ring in the New Year! Hef's wife Crystal was DJ-ing, there was a Big Band group that performed with dancers and everything and, of course, a countdown clock to let everyone know how close we were to ringing in a new year! When it came time for the countdown, everyone was on the dance floor and I was with two of my dearest friends, Alison and Joel, a married couple who have been going there even longer than me! They had seen me transform from a shy 21 year old who was too nervous to wear pajamas to his first party to the guy in the middle of the dance floor leading the count down for everyone! 3..2..1 Happy New Year!!!! Confetti and balloons were dropped from the ceiling, beautiful women surrounded me and the music played! I snapped pictures throughout the night so I could try and share my Mansion experience with you, but pictures never seem to be enough. It's a place that must be seen to be believed and, while my photos give you a glimpse into this world, it can never do it justice or show just how cool it is! I stayed and danced for a couple hours and like that, the night was over, another Playboy Mansion Party in the books. While Hef is older now and things might not be as wild as they used to be, the Playboy Mansion can still throw a kick-ass party and will always have its place in history. I'm so lucky to say that I was a part of it!
One of my favorite interviews for my "Candid Candace Chicago" Watch312.com internet show occurred on December 20 when I had the privilege of interviewing "The View's" newest co-host Jenny McCarthy and her darling beau actor Donnie Wahlberg. Besides being a former Playboy Playmate of the Year, she is also an author, activist and actress. The event was a fundraiser for a charity dear to her heart, Generation Rescue, at hot nightspot Parliament. But after my interview, I realized the buzz-worthy part of the event was the love-match in the making that I observed in front of the camera. Take a look and get the rice ready!
The Woman's Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society recently held its eighth annual All Aboard! Party amid the Garden’s festive indoor holiday and model train exhibition, Wonderland Express. In keeping with All Aboard! tradition, the benefit chairs, Marianne Bestler and Carole Sandner, evoked the theme of a grand train journey, “From Paris to Versailles in Style.” Peggy Carr, a Woman’s Board member since 1960, served as honorary chair of the event. Guests entered the event through Golden Gates to the Palace of Versailles, the home of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI, then traveled past a picture- perfect gingerbread village composed entirely of edible sweets. A fragrant, cedar-lined hall led guests to the Wonderland Express garden-scale train exhibition, featuring lush horticultural displays of holiday plants and 80 miniature replicas of Chicago landmarks. Upon exiting, guests were greeted with strains of classical French music provided by the Allium String Quartet, which played among café tables and sparkling lights, poinsettias and evergreens. Refreshments included champagne, cocktails and French-inspired appetizers from the event caterer, Culinary Landscape. Choices included steak tartare with cornichons, Dijon sauce grabiche; triple cream fromage with caramel apple jam and watercress on a red currant crostini; warm pots of Camembert, spiced pears, cranberry and toasted baguette; foie gras mousse with brandied cherries, black pepper brioche and wild arugula; and warm scallop gratiné with fennel-onion marmalade. Vocalist Lisa Yuen Sandner performed before dinner. Three dining areas staged by Designs by Jody recalled the grandeur of the royal residence of the last Bourbon king of France: the Garden of Versailles, Library of Louis XVI and Hall of Mirrors. French cheeses, wines and other flavors inspired the menu, which began with a first course of mâché with roasted red beets, toasted walnuts, French Roquefort and sherry vinaigrette with smoked salmon mousse in a petite eggshell with whipped crème fraîche and chervil. The entrée featured beef tenderloin bourguignon and dessert offered a duet of white chocolate mint pots de crème, candy cane brittle, and cranberry tartlet, gingerbread truffle, and vanilla crème anglaise. Yummy! Final destinations of the evening included a Crêpe Station and a Souvenir Station. The event raised $250,000 for the Woman’s Board “Growing the Future” campaign. Now in its third year, the effort will raise $1 million to fund the renovation of the English Walled Garden and replacement of trees damaged by the Emerald Ash Borer. The Woman’s Board is dedicated to supporting the Chicago Botanic Garden through advancement of conservation, education and horticulture. (Photos courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden)
I loved ABC 7’s NYE coverage! Their 23-year tradition continued with a new twist this year as Windy City LIVE joined the party! COUNTDOWN CHICAGO 2014 gave viewers a front row seat to the hottest parties, music, comedy and spectacular fireworks in and around Chicago. The only live, local New Year’s Eve show in Chicago was co-hosted by Ryan Chiaverini, Janet Davies, Mark Giangreco, Hosea Sanders, Val Warner, and Ji Suk Yi. The coverage included a magical night at Chicago’s elegant and historic Palmer House Hotel, a dance party at the South Side Parkway Ballroom, and a country/western good time at Toby Keith’s Restaurant and Bar inside Rosemont’s MB Financial Park Entertainment Complex. There were performances by Chicago Blues great Wayne Baker Brooks and American Idol’s Nick Lynch; a year-end comedy review from Zanies Comedy Club’s own Pat McGann; New Year’s resolutions from a kid’s perspective in a fun exchange with WGCI’s Tony Sculfield; and Ryan Chiaverini skating on thin ice when he showed off some of his favorite hockey moves at one of the coolest rinks around. Davies and Giangreco teamed up for the countdown as a spectacular fireworks display from Chicago’s Navy Pier exploded ushering in 2014. Congrats to all!
There was a nice crowd at Public Chicago on NYE, too! I love the feel of this place and think it's a great spot for a party since there's so many nooks and crannies. On this night, they had the library screening room blocked off for a party for the Chicago Bulls. There was a great buffet and the bartenders were all in a good mood. But the best part of the event was the fact that there was artwork scattered everywhere by one of my favorites, Bronzeville native Hebru Brantley! His style is described as being derived from graffiti-worn buildings and sneaker-hung telephone poles honoring memories of local legends. Saturday morning cartoons and comic books celebrating the triumphs of mythological heroes inspire him to tell stories. Catch him while you can!
I hope you will join me on Friday, March 14, when beloved designer Borris Powell debuts his fall/winter 2014 collection titled "FREEDOM" at Block 37! VIP tickets are $100 and can be purchased here! (To receive 5% off, just add "Candace" as your promo code). :-) www.ticketpeak.com/freedomBjP Come experience this all American inspired
Collection featuring dark/rich fabrics that will grab the attention of all fashion savvy individuals! The 2014 collection will feature daytime and evening wear with an assortment of bags for both men and women. Borris will also introduce a new line of accessories including his first ever men's wallet as well as his first lipstick (in his signature RED) called “Red Garden." This is a Standing Room Only event with the exception of VIP ticket holders. VIP ticket holders will gain early entrance to enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres one hour before showtime by Paramount Events Chicago and will also have access to a post show cocktail hour. To see all of the fun from the LAST FABULOUS BP Fashion Show, check out my Watch312 video below! His finale left guests breathless! You won't want to miss this one! General Admission Tickets $40. (Standing Room only), VIP Tickets $100 (less 5% if you add "Candace" as your promo code!) www.ticketpeak.com/freedomBjP
On Thursday, January 30, the Harris Theater for Music and Dance will present its first Eat (and Drink) to the Beat–a spinoff of the Theater’s popular Eat to the Beat series–with a special “Appy Hour” prior to a performance from the award-winning ensemble DanceWorks Chicago (DWC). Some of the city’s hippest food trucks will be on site to provide audience members with a variety of “apps” and food options. For the first time, the Theater will offer specialty cocktails and wine beverages to pair with food for a relaxing, post-work social gathering catered toward young business professionals of Chicago’s downtown area. In honor of the Harris Theater’s 10th season, DWC will present a diverse four-piece program of works choreographed exclusively by Chicago-based choreographers, including a world premiere from Chicago favorite and Ruth Page Award winner Harrison McEldowney and aerial dance specialist Jeremy Plummer, recipient of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters 2013 Artistic Achievement Award. Tickets for the first Eat (and Drink) to the Beat are $5; subscriptions for the rest of the 2013-2014 Eat to the Beat series are $20, available at www.HarrisTheaterChicago.org , or by calling 312.334.7777.
One of Chicago’s most anticipated galas, Redmoon’s annual SpectacleLunatique, Saturday, March 15,is a decadent night of inspired performance and culinary delights all in the industrial elegance of Redmoon’s 57,000-square foot warehouse studio in Pilsen. Over 1,000 of Chicago’s civic, cultural and business leaders gather for Spectacle Lunatique each year raising funds for Redmoon’s free public work that happens throughout the city, primarily in areas that are culturally underserved. This year, Lunatique’s theme of “Redmoon: At the Scale of the City” will inspire the evening’s offerings as performances throughout the space give guests an exclusive preview of the Spring Spectacle and the designs and planning of the inaugural Great Chicago Fire Festival, due to take place in October. This year, over a dozen of Chicago’s top chefs will be represented in “tasting experiences” throughout the evening, all presented in Redmoon’s signature style combining imagination, whimsy and the unexpected. Music and an open bar complete the experience. Howard Tullman, President and CEO of Flashpoint Academy, Chairman and CEO of Experiencia, Inc. and newly named CEO of Chicago tech hub 1871, will be honored as the 2014 Galvanizer Award recipient. Each year, Redmoon presents this award to an individual who galvanizes communities for a more vibrant Chicago. (VIP: $625, General: $450, Late Night: $100. Tickets are available by calling the Redmoon Box Office at 312-850-8440 x123 or online at www.redmoon.org .. (To see how exciting and magical this event will be, check out this Telly Award-winning segment from a past Spectacle Lunatique party on my "Candid Candace Chicago" show on Watch312.com below:
Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Guild Board of Directors celebrates its 30th Fantasy of the Opera in the Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive., on Friday, January 31, 2014, beginning at 6:30 p.m. "The hottest party in the coldest month” – featuring drinks, music, and dancing all in the beautiful environs of the historic Civic Opera House. This year’s theme, “Petals and Pearls,” is inspired by Lyric Opera’s beautiful new production of Madama Butterfly. The lobby will be transformed into a beautiful Japanese garden, and to enhance the evening, special performances and demonstrations will take place throughout the evening – taiko drummers, an origami presentation, and an ikebana floral showcase.
The Cabaret performance in the Ardis Krainik Theatre begins at 8:00pm and features some of the biggest stars from Lyric’s current season. Music director Sir Andrew Davis returns as Master of Ceremonies. Christine Brewer (The Sound of Music), Ana María Martínez (Rusalka and Otello), Brandon Jovanovich (Rusalka), Eric Owens (Rusalka), Jill Grove (Rusalka), and David Cangelosi (Die Fledermaus and Madama Butterfly) will perform selections from the great American songbook and Broadway classics. (For tickets, starting at $275, and more info, click here or call 312.827.5656.
While I was shopping for gifts for the holidays, I realized that some of these ideas might be good for gift giving suggestions for Valentine's Day, too! So, I've put together a list of 10 of my favorite things from around town....everything from makeup to jewelry to art. Maybe you'll find something YOU like, too!
1) Caron Powder Puffs: Chuck and I discovered these luxurious, goosedown powder puffs at one of the first Caron shops to open in Paris many years ago. They will spoil you forever and their beautiful colors make this item a lovely gift for any occasion. They come in three sizes, too, beginning at $45! (www.parfumscaron.com)
2) Furla Riviera Lux leopard clutch: I love the combo of camel and leopard on this clutch. It's also the perfect size, not too little and not too big. For $648, you get a lot of bang for your buck and, as we all know, leopard is classic and timeless. (Furla Boutique, 106 E. Oak St.)
3) Swarovski "Triumphal" cuff: This stunning bracelet is only $125 and is a terrific statement piece that would go with everything from formal to jeans. (Swarovski Boutique, 540 N. Michigan Ave.)
4) Louis Vuitton bag charms: Change the look of your handbag instantly without the cost of buying a new one with these chic bag charms. They come in a wide variety of styles and price ranges but "Insolence" is my favorite! (www.louisvuitton.com)
5) Borris Powell's Signature Handbags/Clutches: I love this local designer and his eye-catching fashions but I'm also hooked on his signature handbags and clutches! They come in a wide variety of styles, colors and patterns so you can choose what's best for you. They start at $350, have a removable strap and are lined with suede. The Signature BjP Tote comes in 3 sizes and starts at $600. (www.borrispowell.com)
6) CAMP Cosmetics' Candid Candace lipstick: Yes, I know I might be a bit prejudiced but I do believe it's THE perfect coral and is especially perfect to keep the doldrums of winter at bay! CAMP Cosmetics' founder Michael Perich has a wide range of other fabulous makeup, too. (http://www.campcosmetics.com/campaign.html)
7) I love all things Hermes but, sadly, a lot of it is out of my price range, BUT these exquisite horn necklaces and earrings are reasonably priced and packed with style. And, like Louis Vuitton, these designer pieces only seem to increase in value on the vintage market. (Fidele Corne horn necklaces ($275) and Isthme earrings ($430): (Hermes, 25 E. Oak Street, Chicago)
8) Pomellato Gourmette Knot Ring: I love this shop on Oak Street and think their jewelry is oh-so chic, especially their sterling silver and marcasite knot ring priced at $755. And they have the cutest store manager, Alayna Crenshaw! (Pomellato, 41 E. Oak Street)
9) Makeup Forever's HD (High Definition) Powder: This is a miracle making product that allows you to highlight your best features and hide dark circles. It's particularly great for on-camera work or photo shoots. I love it! (www.Sephora.com)
10) And last, but certainly not least, no home is complete without a gorgeous portrait from Rosemary Fanti. Her artistry makes everyone sigh and wish they looked as good as she portrays them.
Hope you've enjoyed this week's Candid Candace and I hope to see you at one or more of these wonderful events around town! Until next time, stay warm and here's my fun-filled thoughts on this wintry weather! LOL!
