Tag Archives: Cocktails

Fall's Hottest Runway Event Returns

NorthPark Center's Fashion at the Park, presented by Cadillac, announces the return of its annual iconic event with seven days of high-energy fashion and non-stop excitement on and off the runway. Featuring the best of Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 collections from Friday, October 10 – Thursday, October 16, Fashion at the Park welcomes over 22 top designer shows and events to their luxury tent complex. Don't miss the front row action of Fashion at the Park — tickets go on sale to the public Monday, August 18 at http://www.northparkcenter.com/.

Nonstop fashion action includes appearances by international designers, after parties, in-store events, trunk shows, free fashion photography exhibits, glamorous charity benefits, one-of-a-kind silent auctions and more. After viewing the collections on the runway, “shop the shows” in NorthPark Center, one of the premier luxury shopping centers in the United States with more than 235 fine stores and restaurants.

“I have been to Dallas many times. My first major American trunk show was in Dallas in the '70s,” said famed designer and Fashion at the Park attendee Roberto Cavalli. “Dallas women are very fashion conscious; they know exactly what's on the market, what looks best on them and they enjoy playing with fashion. For me, they represent the perfect client, and it's always a pleasure to meet with them. Fashion at the Park has become a world class fashion event. It's beautifully set, and it's a great opportunity for me to interact with my clients, understand their needs and deliver always great collections.”

“We have visited Dallas only once before. We love the creative spirit and independence that exists in Dallas,” said Rodarte designer duo Kate and Laura Mulleavy. “We're very excited to visit Dallas and NorthPark Center to meet all the amazing women that make up such a vibrant fashion community.”

The 20,000 square-foot luxury tent complex, located between Nordstrom and Macy's, will house day and evening runway shows featuring the latest collections from: Roberto Cavalli; Barneys New York featuring Rodarte; CH Carolina Herrera; Oscar de la Renta; Valentino; Neiman Marcus featuring Marc Bouwer; CFDA/Vogue featuring Doo.Ri, Philip Lim, Michael Bastian, Thakoon, Marchesa and Peter Som; Miss Sixty; Ed Hardy; Dillard's; Macy's; Ted Baker; bebe; Diesel; and Pinto Ranch.

Kicking off Fashion at the Park is the Roberto Cavalli runway show and opening celebration, featuring a special appearance by the renowned designer himself. Personal appearances* include:

— Roberto Cavalli, designer
— Kate and Laura Mulleavy, designers, Rodarte
— Thakoon Panichgul, designer
— Peter Som, designer
— Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, designers, Marchesa
— Marc Bouwer, designer
(*Personal appearances are subject to change)

The Future of Fashion: Celebrating Five Years of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund

A runway fashion show to celebrate five years of the CFDA/VOGUE FASHION FUND — the fashion show will feature multiple designers who have been lauded as award finalists and featured in Vogue, including Doo.Ri, Phillip Lim, Michael Bastian, Marchesa, Thakoon and Peter Som. Special appearances include Marchesa designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, Thakoon Panichgul and Peter Som.

Acting on its long-standing commitment to nurture young talent, Vogue partnered with the Council of Fashion Designers of America to launch the Fashion Fund in 2003. This awards program provides financial help, business expertise and mentoring to the next generation of American fashion designers. Its goal is to encourage and enable designers to achieve their design and business plans.

Tickets

The U-shaped runway, surrounded by 624 reserved seats, features a tiered layout allowing maximum visibility with 212 front row seats. The tiered Designer Circle, located inside the runway, offers a fashion experience usually reserved for celebrities and editors.

All seats are reserved and tickets are available, starting August 18, by logging onto http://www.northparkcenter.com/ (fees apply), or at the NorthPark Center Concierge, located outside Neiman Marcus on Level One. Tickets prices vary starting at $25. A portion of proceeds from Fashion at the Park will benefit local charity partners and CFDA.

Twenty Uber Fashion Passes will give style seekers the ultimate access to Fashion at the Park: front row seats to all runway shows and events, an exclusive VIP swag bag, $250 in NorthPark Gold, invitations to in-store events, complimentary valet parking throughout the event and more. Uber pass holders will also receive access to a private VIP lounge with a dedicated concierge. This season's pass holders will enjoy an even larger lounge area with additional stylish amenities. New this year, Uber pass holders can select from two price tiers: $2,500 for a front row seat to all the shows plus their choice to attend the Bobbi Brown Uber Master Class; or $2,200 for all the fashion action without the Master Class. Uber Passes are available for purchase at http://www.northparkcenter.com/.

Tent Complex

Before the shows patrons will sip Moet & Chandon White Star Champagne and glaceau smartwater. Special Fashion at the Park cocktails made with Belvedere Vodka and 10 Cane Rum will be served alongside cuisine by Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek's Chef John Tesar at select events in the Cadillac Design Gallery.

The Cadillac Design Gallery reception tent, located outside the north entrance of NorthPark Center between Nordstrom and Macy's, opens one hour prior to show time and features a bar, lounge seating and plasma screens showing Fashion at the Park runway footage. Music maven and Dallas socialite Lucy Wrubel will keep the scene hot as she spins tunes from a custom-designed, raised DJ booth.

With its prestigious reputation for award-winning design and high-fashion glamour, Cadillac will highlight its new 2009 lineup in the Cadillac Design Gallery, the ideal spot for fashion aficionados to enjoy their time in between shows. A Cadillac fashion wall, located on the red carpet at the entry of the luxury tent complex, will be a key attraction for paparazzi photos.

Bobbi Brown

Bringing years of high-fashion and Hollywood experience to Fashion at the Park, Bobbi Brown's Beauty Team, a group of hand-selected makeup artists trained by Bobbi herself, will again up the glamour quotient on the runway. Bobbi Brown East Coast Artistry Manager Kimberly Soane will oversee the makeup backstage for all runway shows. Soane's impressive credits include fashion icons such as Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera and Margherita Missoni as well as domestic and international print from Vanity Fair and Town & Country to Korean Elle and German Vogue.

Hotel Package

Experience Texas' only five-star, five-diamond hotel during Fashion at the Park. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is offering special room rates starting at $290.00, based upon availability. To reserve rooms, call 1-888-ROSEWOOD or 214-559-2100, and ask for the Fashion at the Park rate. Reservations can also be made online at http://www.mansiononturtlecreek.com/. Upon arrival, guests will receive a complimentary Fashion at the Park welcome amenity.

BACKGROUND:

Fashion at the Park, NorthPark Center's unprecedented public fashion and media event brings the excitement and energy of the international fashion scene to Dallas each fall. Fashion at the Park showcases NorthPark Center's one-of-a-kind collection of luxury and trendsetting retailers in an exhilarating venue and provides fashion devotees an exclusive opportunity to view the latest fashion and “shop the shows”.

NorthPark Center's Fashion at the Park is supported by presenting sponsor Cadillac and supporting sponsors national media partner Vogue, local media partner PaperCity Magazine, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Moet & Chandon, glaceau smartwater, Belvedere Vodka, 10 Cane Rum, American Airlines, Kim Dawson Agency, Central Market, Capital One Bank and Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau.

As one of the premier shopping centers in the United States, NorthPark Center (http://www.northparkcenter.com/) proudly offers shoppers the best of the best in every category represented including the finest in luxury retail and exclusives in the Southwest. Offering an unparalleled selection of international designers set amid timeless modern architecture and a world-class art collection, NorthPark Center has established a new standard in the United States for innovative retail destinations. NorthPark Center is owned, managed, operated and leased by husband and wife David J. Haemisegger and Nancy A. Nasher. After a $235 million expansion in 2006, NorthPark Center became the largest shopping center in North Texas and one of the top shopping destinations in the United States. NorthPark Center will continue to open more luxury boutiques, exclusive stores and dining options throughout 2008 and beyond, culminating in over 235 stores and restaurants. NorthPark Center is located at the intersection of North Central Expressway and Northwest Highway in the heart of Dallas. Stores are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Department store, theatre, restaurant and spa hours vary.

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Democrats, Republicans Spar on Bar Behavior

While there is no ballot box at the bar, DC's best bartenders can identify political preference by cocktail selection and bar behavior. According to a survey released today, Democrats are seen as better tippers, have better pick-up lines and give better toasts.

Republicans heavily outweigh Democrats when it comes to ordering their drink straight up. Parties are at a stalemate over drinking hours, with Republicans edging out for the first to arrive at happy hour and Democrats being the last to go home.

The survey was issued today by Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. [Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE:FO) ], a global leader in premium spirits, in collaboration with Clarus Research Group. Approximately 100 bartenders in the Washington, DC area were surveyed on their opinions of patrons' cocktail preferences.

"According to the survey results, bartenders in Denver should know that they'll hear better toasts while the bartenders in Minneapolis won't need as much ice with their patrons ordering drinks straight up," stated Bobby "G" Gleason, master mixologist for Beam Global Spirits & Wine.

The full survey questions and results include:

— Who is a better tipper? Democrats 60%, Republicans 38%

— Who is more likely to order a drink straight up? Democrats 14%, Republicans 82%

— Who is more likely to order a fruity (pink) drink? Democrats 58%, Republicans 34%

— Who has the better pick-up lines? Democrats 74%, Republicans 14%

— Who is better at giving a toast? Democrats 63%, Republicans 36%

— Who is more likely to arrive first to happy hour? Democrats 48%, Republicans 50%

— Who is more likely to be the last to go home? Democrats 53%, Republicans 46%

Whether consumers find themselves at the conventions or watching from home, election-themed cocktails will surely set the stage for both Democrats and Republicans: The Grand Ole Party Bartender: Pat M., Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 2 parts Canadian Club(R) Whisky 1 part DeKuyper(R) Signature Creme de Menthe (clear) 1 part DeKuyper(R) Blustery Peppermint Burst Schnapps Combine ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice. Fill an old-fashioned glass with shaved ice, strain spirits over ice and serve with straw.

The Running Mate Bartender: James Lee, West End Tavern, Boulder, CO 2 parts Maker's Mark(R) Bourbon 1 part simple syrup 2 wedges of lemon 1 slice of watermelon Muddle lemon and watermelon with simple syrup. Add Maker's Mark and ice. Shake and strain into a large old fashioned glass with fresh crushed ice. Garnish with a slice watermelon & lemon wheel

The Donkey Bartender: Jim Hewes, Round Robin Bar, Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C. 2 parts Knob Creek(R) Bourbon 1 part DeKuyper(R) Triple Sec 1 teaspoon sugar 6 mint sprigs Splash of DeKuyper(R) Pucker(R) Raspberry Schnapps Fresh raspberries and blueberries to garnish Add sugar, bourbon and mint into an old-fashioned glass with crushed ice and muddle the fruit. Garnish with berries and mint. Beam Global reminds legal purchase age consumers to drink responsibly after casting their vote.

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Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival Extravaganza Is Set For October 17-18

Maggie White, president of The Edgartown Board of Trade, today announced the schedule of events for the 2008 Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival. From October 17 – 19, visitors and residents are invited to attend cooking demonstrations, food & wine tastings, culinary seminars, and wine dinners featuring the area’s finest chefs, farmers, and specialty food purveyors. This distinguished group of professionals will host more than 13 events all highlighting fresh, local ingredients.

Festival Opening Reception – Friday, October 17

The Food & Wine Festival will begin on Friday, October 17, at 5:00 p.m. with a reception at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum – Small Plates from the Grill Grates. BBQ masters Andy Husbands, chef/owner of Tremont 647 in Boston, and Dante de Magistris, chef/owner of dante in Cambridge and the soon-to-open Il Casale in Belmont, will grill island-raised meats, seafood, and produce for guests to sample. Wine historian Nina Wemyss will pour a selection of vintages chosen to accompany the smoky, subtle flavors of BBQ. Guests can place bids on cases of rare wines during a silent auction while listening to live jazz music by Jeremy Berlin. Tickets are $100 and proceeds will benefit the Martha's Vineyard Museum.  

 

Following the cocktail party, Festival attendees can choose from one of the

pre fixé wine dinners offered by Edgartown restaurants at 7:30 p.m. Participating restaurants to date include Atria, Détente, and l’Etoile. Sharkey’s Cantina will host a Southwestern-themed dinner with pairings of Casa Noble Tequilas.

 

Culinary Seminars – Saturday, Oct. 18

Culinary experts will present seminars in Edgartown galleries and restaurants on Saturday, October 18. Seminar tickets range from to and include:

·          Chocolate and Dessert Wine Pairings, by Lee Napoli of Chocolee Chocolates–2008 Best of Boston “Best Chocolates,” and Jonathan Alsop of The Boston Wine School

·          Beer and Cheese, by The Vineyard’s own Offshore Ale and a selection of cheeses from Shy Brothers Farm, Westport, Mass.

·          Bread and Olive Oil, by Joanne Chang, owner, Boston’s Flour Bakery, and Emmanuel Daskalakis of Aralia

·          Classic Cocktails, by Lauren Clark of DrinkBoston

·          Adventure with an Affineur, wine and cheese tasting, by Russo’s of Watertown resident wine & cheese expertMark Trumble

 

Children’s Camp at The Farm Institute – Saturday, October 18

The Food & Wine Festival has arranged a half-day camp for the children of Festival attendees. Participants will tour the farm and help care for the animals.

 

The camp is open to children ages 6 – 12 years of age and will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The cost per attendee is and the registration deadline is October 4. Camp reservations can be made on the Festival Website at www.mvfoodandwine.com.

 

Corn Maze – Saturday, Oct. 18 & Sunday, Oct. 19

For families to explore together, the famous corn maze at The Farm Institute will be open throughout the weekend from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is for children under 13 and for guests over the age of 14.  Tickets are available for purchase at The Farm Institute.

 

Grand Tasting, Oct. 18 – Chefs, Vintners, and Cookbook Authors

On Saturday, October 18, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., the Martha’s Vineyard Museum will host the Grand Tasting.   Distinguished island chefs, including Kevin Crowell of Detente, Christian Thornton of Atria, Anthony Saccoccia of The Grill on Main,will demonstrate dishes prepared with local, in-season produce, meats, and seafood, highlighting each chef’s distinctive style.  Noted vintners will pour wines for guests including Rombauer Vineyards, Duckhorn Wine Company, Liberty School Wine, and C. Donatiello Winery. Acclaimed cookbook authors,including Cathy Walthers and Chef Andy Husbands, will conduct a book signing. Tickets are $100. 

 

 

Two Gourmand Dinners – Saturday, Oct.18

These dinners will be held at a private residence from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.   Guests are invited to enjoy flavorful fall menus while engaging in conversations with chefs and culinary experts on the benefits – and challenges – of eating locally in New England.

 

Food, Art, and Wine

Chef Peter Davis of Henrietta’s Table in Cambridge will prepare an island-grown masterpiece while noted Wine Historian Nina Wymess pairs each course with a selected vintage. With literary anecdotes and illustrations, Nina will explain the historical relationship between wine and art as well as its cultural significance. Margarit Mondavi of the Mondavi Winery will discuss her interest in uniting wine with the arts and the winery’s dedication to cultural programs.   Tickets are $500.

 

Sustainable Seafood

Chef/Owner Jeremy Sewall of Lineage in Brookline, Mass. will walk diners through the process of preparing sustainable fish and shellfish. Heather Tausig, coordinator of the New England Aquarium’s Celebrate Seafood Dinner Series, will lead a discussion on the importance of shopping for and eating sustainable seafood. Chefs Collaborative’s new Sustainable Solutions seafood guide will be provided for guests. Tickets are $500.

 

Farmers’ Market and Brunch – Sunday, Oct. 19

The Festival will close on Sunday, October 19, with a Farmers’ Market and Brunch from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Local farmers will offer their fall harvest for sale. Guests can also purchase prepared brunch foods a la carte. 

 

The Museum will be open for children to enjoy a complimentary craft activity while museum guides engage young festival attendees outdoors with historic games.

 

Ticket Information:

For more detailed information and to purchase tickets, visit www.mvfoodandwine.com. Tickets may also be purchased in Edgartown at The Christina Gallery and at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. 

 

Please note: schedule subject to change.
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DC’s Best Halloween Parties

The Washingtonian compiled a list of the best parties for Halloween:

October 28, High Heel Race
Head to 17th and Q streets near Dupont Circle to watch the annual High Heel Race. It begins at 9, but spectators should show up as early as 6 to grab a good spot.

October 31, Graveyard Jam
Young professionals can win a trip to Aruba, enter a raffle for a guitar, and enjoy dancing to live music at this year’s Graveyard Jam at the Hard Rock Cafe. Prizes will be awarded for the scariest, prettiest, and most original costumes of the night. Early arrivals can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drink specials. Costumes are preferred but not required, and sneakers can be worn only as part of a costume. Tickets are $10, and the party runs from 9 PM to 3 AM, Party Bus Services from https://thebostonpartybus.com/ will be provided.

October 31, Halloween Fiesta
Throw on a costume and head to La Tasca for its fifth annual Halloween Fiesta. Those in costume enjoy $3.50 drink specials and have the chance to win a $100 gift certificate. A DJ will provide the tunes starting at 11. Guests ages 18 to 20 are invited to dance.

October 31, Piratz Tavern Halloween Party
Need a last-minute costume ideaä A pirate is easy to pull together, so grab some mascara, hoop earrings, and a bandana, and head to Piratz Tavern for its Halloween party. As of the full moon on October 14, “de tavern be haunted,” and Piratz will have a haunted VooDoo Luau leading up to Halloween. If you wish the holiday would never end, get two extra days of celebration with the Zombie Lurch on November 1 and the Day of the Dead celebration on November 2.

October 31, Trick-or-Treat on Embassy Row
Going from house to house might be unacceptable unless you’re accompanied by a child on Halloween—so what are adults to do for their candy fixä Participate in Trick-or-Treat on Embassy Row to try international sweets from 6:30 to 9. Getting a peak inside some of the embassies is a special treat but not guaranteed. Purchasing a ticket to this event automatically gets your name on a list for the Graveyard Jam at Hard Rock Cafe. Tickets are $30.

October 31, Hollywood Ballroom Dance Party
Singles are invited to the Halloween dance party at the Hollywood Ballroom. Free two-step lessons will be offered at 8 by Steve Ferrara, and the party starts at 9.

October 31, Nightmare on M Street
DC’s largest roaming costume party/bar crawl is in its ninth year. From 6 PM to 2 AM, treat yourself to Halloween specials, including $2 Miller Lite bottles, $4 rail drinks, and more. The party starts early, but be sure to catch the costume contest at midnight at McFadden’s. Advance tickets are needed for James Hoban’s Irish Bar, but Front Page and Rumors accept walk-up tickets. If purchased in advance, tickets will start at $12 and will increase over time, while walk-up prices are $20 at the door or a $10 cover at each bar without an event wristband.

October 31, Clarendon Ballroom Monster Bash
Do you start planning your Halloween costume on November 1 for the following yearä If so, the Halloween Monster Bash costume contest at Clarendon Ballroom is for you. To enter, download the entry form and drop it off at the registration table upon arrival. Judges will pick 30 semi-finalists from 9:35 to 10:15, which will be narrowed down to 10 with the best and most original costumes. These contestants will compete, and the crowd will pick the winners. First-, second-, and third-place winners receive $200, $100, and $50, respectively, and the most original costume also takes home $50. Get more information and the application here. Doors open at 6, and tickets start at $10.

October 31, McGinty’s Public House
McGinty’s is giving away $200 in prizes for this year’s best costumes. Live rock music will be provided by Still Counting.

October 31, Synetic Theater’s Vampire’s Ball
After a performance of Edgar Allen Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher at Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre, stick around for the Vampire’s Ball. Food and drinks will be available, and prizes will be awarded for the costume contest; 8 PM.

October 31, Yorktown Bistro
The Yorktown Bistro will award prizes for sexiest and most original costume. Come dressed to impress to participate and enjoy live music.

October 31, 9:30 Club Halloween Bash
Head to the 9:30 Club to watch the Pietasters, the Toasters, and Deals Gone Bad, and participate in the costume contest. The grand-prize winner takes homes tickets to every 9:30 show in November and December. Tickets to the bash cost $15, and doors open at 8 PM.

October 31, ’80s Halloween Bash
If the ’80s was your favorite decade, pull your hair in a side pony and throw on stone-washed jeans before heading to Tortoise and Hare for its throw-back bash. Eighties cover band Members Only will perform.

October 31, Best Halloween Show Ever
Palace of Wonders hosts The Best Halloween Show Ever, featuring burlesque performances, a go-go show, and more. Participate in the costume contest and enjoy candy. Costumes are highly encouraged. The fun starts at 10; $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

October 31, Jammin’ Java Halloween Bash
Some people can get by on Halloween without a costume—but not at Jammin’ Java. Get creative because the costume is a must, and impress the bands because they will be voting on the best costume. Mambo Sauce, Future, Flex Matthews, and Jon Braman will provide entertainment, and a special Halloween happy hour starts at 8.

October 31, Alice in Helixland
Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum cocktails will be served at Helix Lounge as well as complimentary tea party-themed hors d’oeuvres for this Halloween charity bash benefiting the Whitman-Walker Clinic. Get lost in Wonderland and participate in the costume contest or bid on an item during the silent auction. The admittance fee includes two drink tickets. 7-10 PM; $10.

October 31, 14th Annual Halloween Bash
Check out the Old Post Office Pavilion for the 14th Annual Halloween party featuring Judo Chop and the Winn Brothers Band. Costumes are required, and awesome prizes will be awarded: Best group costume wins a $500 bar tab, and the person with the best costume wins a $300 tab at Smith Point. The entrance fee includes an open bar, Red Bull Bar and free admission to the Rookery for an afterparty. Tickets cost $60 for the first 300 people who purchase in advance, $80 if purchased before 10 PM on October 30, and $100 at the Rookery between 4 and 9 PM on Halloween. 9 PM-1 AM.

October 31: ICDC Halloween Dance Party
The International Club of DC is hosting a Halloween dance party at the Sports Club of LA. Kick the night off with a salsa lesson at 8:15, then dance to the Latin grooves of Origem at 9. Costumes aren’t required, but c’mon—who wants to go to a Halloween party not dressed upä Bring a can of food for the homeless, which will be donated to the Capital Area Food Bank. Tickets cost $15 for the dance party or $20 for the party and the salsa lesson, but register now because prices will increase.

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Cindy Crawford Launches Mag. in Chicago

Supermodel and Chicago native Cindy Crawford will join Niche Media CEO Jason Binn, Midwest President and Publisher Dan Uslan and Editor-in-Chief Susanna Homan, to host the launch party for Michigan Avenue magazine on Sept. 20, 2008.

The red carpet extravaganza at The James Chicago will bring together tastemakers from the Windy City and around the country including “Top Chef Chicago” winner Stephanie Izard, Pro Golfer Luke Donald, and more. Guests will be treated to live performances from Terrence Howard and Destiny's Child singer Michelle Williams while sipping on Don Julio Ultra Premium tequila, Ciroc cocktails, Sapporo beer, and enjoying food from the renowned David Burke's Primehouse.

About Michigan Avenue magazine: Michigan Avenue is synonymous with Chicago–and Michigan Avenue magazine, which debuted on September 15, 2008, is the talk of the town, celebrating the lifestyles and passions of the city's most affluent and sophisticated readers. High-impact covers and witty, intelligent editorial content make Michigan Avenue magazine a must-read. Every issue features interviews, fashion stories, an inside look at the lives of celebrity contributors, product and accessories trends, the best in home design, art, restaurants, theatre, entertainment, and amazing photos of the people and places that make Chicago so special.

More than 30 bold-faced names with Chicago ties have contributed to the first issue, including Oprah Winfrey, Mayor Richard M. Daley, Michelle Obama, Reverend Al Sharpton, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, political comedian Bill Maher, Chicago rocker Pete Wentz, famed photographer Victor Skrebneski, singer Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child fame, journalist Bill Kurtis, Tim Zagat, Mariel Hemingway, writer and host James Lipton and news anchor Robin Meade, to name a few on the acclaimed list.

About Niche Media Holdings: Niche Media, a subsidiary of Greenspun Media Group, was founded in 1992 and is the country's preeminent regional magazine company with the largest network of city-specific luxury publications in the United States. Niche Media consistently delivers the finest editorial content and advertising to a controlled group of influencers with the highest disposable incomes in each city. Niche Media reaches readers who maintain annual household incomes of at least $200,000 and have liquid assets in excess of $1 million, making the pages of these glossies some of the most valuable real estate in publishing. Additionally, the company brings its publications' pages to life with more than 500 dynamic A-list events across the country each year. With more than 300 full-time employees, Niche Media exceeds 30,000 pages annually, and its titles have a combined annual distribution of more than 8 million copies. Niche Media's titles provide advertisers and marketers with a direct connection to the most desirable markets across the country.

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Candlelight Ball on Sat, Nov. 8

The Candlelight Ball

Cocktails – Dinner – Dancing – Silent Auction – Cash Raffle

Join the Women’s Board of Heartland Alliance in celebrating those who have moved from darkness to light – from harm to hope – from poverty to brighter futures.

Master of Ceremonies

Ron Magers

Featuring

Rhythm City

Candlelight Ball Silent Auction 4

Saturday, November 8
The Palmer House Hilton

Purchase Tickets
Online ticket registration closes at midnight on Wednesday, November 5th

Sponsorship and
Ad Information

Silent Auction

Share This Event with a Friend!

Event Schedule

How Heartland Alliance Helps

Sponsored by

comed         Sara Lee

Photos from 2007

The Candlelight Ball - 2007, 1
Heartland Alliance President Sid Mohn and Master of Ceremonies Ron Magers

The Candlelight Ball - 2007, 2
Dinner at The Candlelight Ball

The Candlelight Ball - 2007, 3
The Dance Floor at The Candlelight Ball

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Playboy Golf Tournament in Leesburg

 

A private DJ at the Sky Vodka Lounge on the first hole teed things off to some groovy music and some Playmate-wannabes.

Sky Lounge in DC had a booth where they mixed heady cocktails and passed out $10 gift cards for comp meals at the hot lounge in DC. If you'd like one of those gift cards, contact us.

Marriages may be made in heaven but bliss could be had on the golf course! Just ask Chris Moore, Publisher of The Observer Newspapers in Herndon who was a pint away from divorce. (His digital cell phone saved him as he kept texting his wife pictures and sweet nothings of all the no-good he was upto! Or maybe was just just sexting!)

Publisher Lak Vohra shared the 'rough life' with ex-Redskins great Ricky Irwins who has a mean swing but doesn't drink not smoke (don't pay any attention to the guy shooting the picture.)

The ladies who worked the hospitality rounds during the game cleaned up pretty good for the dinner reception and awards ceremony.

That's Jennifer E. Lewis, National Events Manager, TAJ LLC, the group that organized the Playboy Golf Tournament nationwide with one of the trophies for the evening.

Redskins' greats Brian Mitchell and Ricky Irwins all smiles at the after-party and ceremony. 

We snapped Playboy's Miss June Candice Cassidy with Ajay Pathak, Founder & COO, Playboy Golf enjoying each other's company at the after-party. 

And- the final line-up:

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Courage Cup Summer Swing Under the Stars

 

Kirsten Murdock was showing everyone the money. It was a good cause after all raising funds for the Courage Cup.

Event host Andrea Rodgers in the swanky penthouse at AKA The White House which graciously donated the space for the evening. The brie was delicious!

Realtor Tanya Lynn Sabel (the blonde in the middle) with DJ Seyhan Duru's Parisian girlfriend who just moved to the US to be with Duru and enjoy the Washington social scenery.

Cheryl P. Ibanez, Community Affairs Coordinator, Public Affairs, GEICO (2nd to right) had five and then some minutes to kill with her recessionistahs.

Lot's of classy couture and cocktails throughout the evening.

Co-organizers Andrea Rodgers and Mike Carson, Owner & Social Media Producer, Mike Carson Creative basking in the glow at the event. Kudos to Rodgers for pulling off the fab affair even after the swing band canceled at 5 pm fearing rain. She quickly substituted with DJ Seyhan Duru who was out for a drive when he got a SOS call from Rodgers and agreed on the spot to DJ the party! (see below)

Laid-off-lobbyist Kara networked with Bruce Boxer, Systems Engineer, DoD Intelligence Support Services, General Dynamics (r) and a friend.

Josh Hedrington, Corporate Sales Manager for AKA White House with a volunteer made sure the penthouse was swanky for the sizzle. Josh tells us AKA White House, a extended stay hotel, has over 75% occupancy and rooms rent from $235 to $345. Guess whatä They still have rooms available for the Fourth of July and with the top-floor deck watching the fireworks could be amazing! Contact Josh and tell him we sent ya!

DC Girls in the Know co-founders Chris Jacobs (l) and Julie O'Brien (r) were ensconsed by Andrea Rodgers. The girls travel in pairs and almost missed the party. Better late than never!

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$5000 Cash Giveaway at Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant & Pub

 Beginning Saturday July 11, and running for five consecutive Saturday nights, one lucky customer at Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant and Pub will go home $1000 richer.

"Denver has been very good to Katie," states Paul Maye, Katie Mullen's principal owner. "This promotion is our way of saying thank you to Denver locals who have supported us since our February opening with such enthusiasm and loyalty. We recognise the challenging economic times we are all experiencing, but in celebration of our new cabaret licence, we felt a little hard cash reward was an appropriate gesture. Every Saturday night from July 11th through to August 15th, one lucky customer will go home feeling a little bit more financially secure!"

"Our goal is to become a destination venue on Saturday nights," says Tom Cronin, Katie Mullen's director of operations. "Customers are looking for value and we feel that a cash offer will help us grow this night and make it a success." He continued that Katie Mullen's offers four themed areas encompassing The Victorian Bar, Gaelic Bar, Pharmacy Bar and Shop Bar, all which allow for a different ambiance. Utilising premium brands provides a unique setting for all demographics and while doing so offer values on promotional cocktails and house draft beer.

Katie Mullen's launches the new Saturday night concept coinciding with the approval of a cabaret licence. D.J. Qwyla Mae will provide tunes on the Victorian Bar stage, and Katie Mullen's will offer premium cocktail promotions and special prices on Durango brewed draft beers.

Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant and Pub, which is 100% Irish owned and operated, is Denver's newest and most authentic Irish dining and socialising experience. With seating for over 600 and hosting the largest patio on the 16th Street Mall, Katie Mullen's provides the ideal setting for all occasions and can cater for groups from 50 to 500.

Katie Mullen's is located on the 16th Street Mall at 1550 Court Street beside the newly renovated Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. See www.Katiemullens.com for additional information. 

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Make-A-Wish Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction July 24

Meet your dream date at the Make-A-Wish Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction, Friday, July 24th at 7 p.m. Hosted by Big 105.9 FM's Paul & Young Ron, this event promises to be bigger and better than ever as The Opium group brings a taste of South Beach Nightlife to OPIUM Nightclub at the Hard Rock. Each of our bachelors and bachelorettes will be up on the auction block along with an extravagant date package that you can enjoy together. All you have to do is bid! This special evening also features cocktails and raffle prizes. 

 

Special guest co-host Becky Willard took to the auction block at last year’s Dream Date Auction and was also a model at our Spring Fling & Flower Fashion Show.  In 2008, she was crowned Miss America Touch of Class with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida as her platform. 

 

100 percent of proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. Last year's sold out event raised enough money to grant the heartfelt wishes of 9 special children, enriching their lives with hope, strength and joy.

 

Don't miss out on the chance to meet South Florida's most eligible single men and women. Your special someone may have already RSVPed. Don't leave them waiting!

 

Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $40 VIP Exclusive Access

For a sneak peek at the bachelors and bachelorettes or to purchase tickets, visit www.dreamdateauction.net.  For more information, call 954-967-9474. 

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Best Staycation in DC

If you like to stay in places where they remember your name, treat you like any other celebrity, or in fact, treat you like royalty, where the bar lurks within an eyeshot of the lobby, where the staff has some really cool stories to tell, where you can walk to a 24-hour CVS for those post-midnight Advils, you'll want to consider The Fairfax at Embassy Row, located at 2100 Massachusetts Ave., NW in DC.

Everyone knows it as the boyhood home of Al Gore but the hotel has literally had nine lives. In its heydays it used to be a Ritz-Carlton until the chain yanked the license on the Middle Eastern owners after a tiff and than it became a Westin and now its part of  the Luxury Collection. 

Happily so, the hotel has been brought back to life – and so has the Jockey Club, once the grand dame of all eating establishments and even before people could find Cafe Milano on a map.

We visited the property on a weekend sojourn arranged by the hotel pitchman Hugh Drummond of O'Neil & Associates, the kindest man in the biz.

As soon as we arrived this past Friday, we were welcome in the lobby by Pierre Yves-Robin, the Sommelier and Beverage Manager, who promptly informed us that all the old regulars were back. By that he meant all the staff that once presided over the hotel glorious past when Presidents and Playboys ate and played at the hotel. You know it's always a good sign when the first person to greet you at a hotel is the resident sommelier!

Pierre with one of his 'regulars' Ben Jamil and a 'newbie' Raymond Lawrence.

After we checked into our plush digs, a suite, arranged by our host David Bodette, Assistant General Manager, The Fairfax at Embassy Row, we strode down to relive some other memories over cocktails with Pierre at the Fairfax Lounge.

Pierre with Publisher and Chief Party Animal Lak Vohra.

Cocktails in the Fairfax Lounge turned out to be a Flight of Wines from Cote d'Or. Pierre tells us that the hotel tries different wines in keeping with the Embassies around them and if you plan to go anytime soon here are the tastings for the rest of the summer season: July 29: Veneto and Trentino; Aug. 5: Piedmont and Lombardy Wines; Aug. 12: Wines of Chile; Aug. 19: Wines of Argentina; and Aug. 26: Catalonia Wines. Reservations generally are not required and dress can be casual.

On Saturday, we ate a delicious eggs benedict with french fries at the Jockey Club and in the afternoon we drank rose at the bar. We were pumped up for the grand finale – a sumptuous dinner reliving those glory days at theJockey Club.

When we arrived for dinner, we were greeted by Martin Garbisu, the Maitre D' and Restaurant Manager. Martin brought us up to speed on what he had been doing all these years the Jockey Club had been shut down and how he brought back the old team together – "the ones who are alive are here," he said with a glint in his eye ever so affably.

For starters, we tried the Fresh Shellfish assortment which consisted of Maine Lobster Tail, blue crab claws, jumbo shrimp, cherry stone clams and East Coast oysters which was a bevy of beauties swallowed into one.

Our main course for the evening was the Pan Seared Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with a side of Grilled Vegetables, Toasted Quinoa, Red Pepper Coulis in Verbena Oil. The helping was just the right size we needed to leave room for desert.

We partaked in a mango sorbet and for the start attraction of the evening we ordered one of the finest deserts we've arguably ever eaten: the Rhubarb Pie. If there is one thing you must try if you are in DC it is the stupendous Rhubarb Pie. There's not too many places you can eat such a Pie and it was simply delicious! We're gonna have to sneak in one day to steal the recipe!

Before we could call it a night, our host David paid us a visit and mentioned he had planned the perfect Sunday Brunch for us – back here at the Jockey Club. 

Needless to say, we slept well that night. Tomorrow was another day – at the Jockey Club!

Viola`.

David with his staff at the pearly gates of heaven: The Fairfax at Embassy Row.

Bye bye birdie (come back soon and croon).

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2009 Global Tastes on Sept. 30

Nationalities Service Center welcomes members of the Philadelphia area to join them in celebrating the city’s diversity through NSC’s Global Tastes fundraising event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in this exceptional event. Joining together to celebrate the diversity of the world’s flavors will be twenty to twenty-five of Philadelphia’s culinary talents specializing in ethnic cuisine. In addition to great food, Global Tastes will also offer lively music, creative cocktails, international wines and some of the greatest beers from local Philly breweries.

Details, click here.

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