Barton G restaurant opens in Chicago: A culinary circus of food, fun and fantasy

I have to share the news of a wondrous new restaurant that just opened February 15, Barton G. The Restaurant Chicago. It is an experience where the food is as fabulous as the whimsy and you can expect the unexpected. It was such an amazing culinary experience, that I’m struggling for words to properly describe... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
February 16, 2019 at 3:34 pm • 

The final New Year's Eve at the much loved Baton Show Lounge

The Baton Show Lounge line-up for the final NYE show. (Photo by Rick Aguilar)
The Baton Show Lounge was all dressed up to say goodbye at its final NYE show on December 31. Balloons were everywhere and every table was topped with the requisite party hats, horns and golden beads. We reserved far in advance as I knew this night would be a sellout and it was. Chuck and... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
January 1, 2019 at 6:08 pm • 

The Hugh Hefner Auction: A Playmate reviews a lifetime of Playboy memories

Hef holding the first issue of Playboy.
How do you sum up a man’s legacy in one auction? The answer is you don’t, especially if it’s Hugh Marston Hefner, a man who changed the world with his views on sexuality, freedom of speech and human rights. He was an artist, a writer, an activist, a rebel and a rule breaker. And yes,... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
November 29, 2018 at 10:29 am • 
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Illuminate 900: Holiday family fun returns to The 900 Shops

Santa with The Real Elf (Tommy Holl)
Once again, 900 North Michigan Shops will transform its atrium into a winter wonderland, as it hosts its annual, tree lighting ceremony, “Illuminate 900,’ on Thursday, November 15, from 6PM-8PM. The event is intended to be an arts-forward, community-wide kick off to the holiday season and promises to be a most magical celebration. Artists from... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
November 1, 2018 at 5:26 pm • 

Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade lights up State Street for first time

Ballet Chicago
LUMA8, producer of the annual Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade, and partners Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Chicago Park District will host this year’s parade tomorrow, October 20 (from 6-8 pm). This magical nighttime Halloween procession will have a new route this year, marching down... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
October 19, 2018 at 12:11 pm • 

Rocket Men: Meeting the brave crew of Apollo 8

The thrill of a lifetime, meeting the crew of Apollo 8, shown here with Major General Bill Anders.
To say it was thrilling is a vast understatement. I’ve been lucky to have many opportunities to meet high profile people and celebrities in my line of work, but I’m not sure I have the words to describe what it was like to meet these three American heroes, the crew of Apollo 8–Captain James Lovell,... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
October 9, 2018 at 11:28 am • 
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Why you shouldn't miss your class reunions

Waterloo, Illinois sunset.
I highly recommend you go back to your high school/college/kindergarten class reunions (any reunion!) if you get the chance. It’s a great way to reconnect with your roots and share stories that only longtime friends can know. This was my 3rd time at Dupo, Illinois’ “No Class Reunion“, lovingly conceived and orchestrated by Marsha Bieber... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
October 4, 2018 at 11:58 am • 

"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", a must-see musical at the Oriental Theatre

For those of us who still believe in magic, put the musical “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on your must-see list. Last night’s opening at the Oriental Theatre in Chicago was packed with kids and adults, like me who were anxious to escape reality for a while. During the 2 1/2 hour musical based on... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
October 4, 2018 at 11:07 am • 

She was Heavenly Hazel Barr

She was Heavenly Hazel Barr
A force to be reckoned with right up to the very end–Hazel Barr passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 28, surrounded by those she loved. She was a long and loyal champion of the Service Club of Chicago, one of the oldest charitable organizations in the city. Her creativity and passion surrounding her... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
June 29, 2018 at 4:58 pm • 
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LMFAO's Redfoo will be celebrity guest host at Green Tie Ball 2018

LMFAO's Redfoo will be celebrity guest host at Green Tie Ball 2018
Green Tie Ball 2018 just got a whole lot cooler with the addition of Redfoo (part of the musical duo LMFAO) as its celebrity guest host! Presented by Chicago Gateway Green with the whimsical, Seussical theme of “Green Eggs & Glam,” this year’s event will be held at The Geraghty (2520 S. Hoyne) on Friday,... Read more »
By Candace Jordan,
May 30, 2018 at 8:39 am •