Glamorama 2013: Chicago dresses up for the most decadent fashion fête of the season

Anyone living in Chicago these past fifteen years will understand this: there is a noticeable joie de vivre that casts an auspicious glow over city-dwellers in early August.

Glamorama 2013

Fashion in a New Light

This year, it might have something to do with a loveable Grammy winner (ahem…Sheryl Crow) or a spectacular Canadian circus troupe (Cirque du Soleil, yep), but the countdown to what is perhaps the single greatest stars-and-fashion-galore event of the summer can be summed up in a single word: Glamorama.

a

Crooner Sheryl Crow

Kerry Shorr caught up with three of the űberglam women helming what has been declared one of the most spectacular nights Chicago has ever seen.

Andrea Schwartz
Vice President, Media Relations and Cause Marketing
Macy's

How many Glamorama(s) have you attended?
If you combine those I've attended in Chicago and Minneapolis (both Macy's markets), it's a grand total of 30. I've worked and attended Glamorama every year in both Chicago and Minneapolis since 1998. I remember comedian Ellen DeGeneres opened the show in Chicago in 1998 and witnessed the most outstanding fashions set against a fantastic show-stopping backdrop.

What aspect of Glamorama are most anticipating this year?
There is never just one aspect, but three: fashion, entertainment and the after-party. The show and party are pure spectacle and fun. This year Cirque du Soleil will perform segments from its "Mystere" production in Las Vegas at Treasure Island. Maison Jules, Macy's new Parisian inspired fashion line, is making its debut. I'm looking forward to the after party, getting photos taken, enjoying signature cocktails, and dancing with the beautiful crowd.

Which Sheryl Crow song do you hope she performs?
“If It Makes You Happy" is one of my favorites.

Why is Glamorama such an important event to attend?
The best part about Macy's Glamorama is that it raises money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Every ticket the charity sells goes directly to the House, whose focus is making families as comfortable as possible during a difficult time.

What are you planning to wear?
A sleeveless, ruffled orange Max Mara dress.

Christina Thomas
(pictured right, with Candace Jordan)
Director of Events
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI)

What is your favorite part of Glamorama?
It’s such a high-energy show and I absolutely love the excitement when the dancers come out on stage.

Ronald McDonald House Charities inspires so many people. How can more Chicagoans get involved?
We are always looking for new friends to help donate their time, talents and treasures. Our four local Houses have a “Meals From the Heart” program where volunteers can come prepare a home-cooked meal for our families. We can always use help with day-to-day House duties, from stocking our family pantries, to replenishing the movies in our family living spaces.

Glamorama has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to RMHC-CNI. How does the organization put the monies to use?
2013 marks over a million dollars raised for our four local Ronald McDonald Houses. Monies provide a ‘home away from home’ for families of children with complex medical needs. Our Houses offer comfort, compassion and a sense of community to families going through the most difficult time of their lives. It’s critical to keep families together during this time of healing and recovery.

What are you planning to wear to Glamorama?
I am leaning towards a look that is bold, edgy, and colorful. A bright lipstick is also a must.

To learn more about RMHC-CNI and volunteer opportunities, click HERE.

Candace Jordan
Host, “Candid Candace Chicago”
Watch312.com

Define Glamorama in 3 words.
Fashion. Stars. Music.

Each year, Glamorama helps to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Ronald McDonald House Charities. RMHC-CNI's Ken Norgan personally asked you to take part. Why is this charity so close to your heart?
It means more to me than I can put into words. When I saw the level of love and hope that Ronald McDonald House Charities instills in families, I was a goner. I also had the opportunity to get to know the Herrick family and little Max Herrick who told me how much he loved the Houses because they kept his family close and made him feel safe. I'm honored to help bring this wonderful message of hope to life for everyone.

What are you planning to wear to Glamorama?
Last year I wore fashions by Bar III, which was a new line at Macy's. I hope to repeat last year's success with my outfit this year!

Chicago's Queen of the E-Scene: Candace Jordan

Playboy-Bunny-cum-Social-Media-Maven: Candace Jordan 

When deciding where to go for a memorable night out – VIP parties, charity events, movie premieres, fashion shows – we consult our favorite bon vivant, Candace Jordan. 

Whether she’s blogging about provocative style trends for Sunday’s  Chicago Tribune Magazine or interviewing attendees from last night’s red carpet affair for her Watch312.com show, Candid Candace Chicago, the fabulous Mrs. Jordan always has the first look, and the final word, on the best tinsel in town.   

Chicago's Red Carpet Queen

Luxe File Chicago caught up with the ground-breaking, Midwest Emmy Award-contender and former Playboy model who dished on putting the razzle-dazzle into her love life, her favorite things about Chicago, and that one little thing (or two) she can't live without. What else did we learn? Don't ask her about Aretha (Franklin).

How does Watch312.com’s Candid Candace Chicago differ from other online entertain- ment shows: Well, it has me as the host! I conceived the show as a way to bring viewers with me to these events virtually. I like to spotlight parties, premieres, and festivals that have a lot of human interest. I always look for an element that elevates the event to a newsworthy perspective.

Which celebrity/Chicago insider would you like to interview for your show: I just did! I had the honor of interviewing Al Pacino at The 48th Chicago International Film Festival for the world premiere of his upcoming film, Stand Up Guys. I also interviewed his award-winning cast members: Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin, and Jon Bon Jovi (who wrote two songs for the film). 

Candace with Al Pacino at the Harris Theatre for the kick off of The 48th Chicago International Film Festival 

You’re a woman who’s hard to say “No” to. Has there ever been an interview you couldn’t get or someone who wouldn’t open up to you on camera: Fortunately, there hasn’t been many but when I asked Christopher Walken what his new movie, Seven Psychopaths, was about, he said, “The title". Geez...

Designer(s) you like to wear on camera: I'm not really into labels. For on-camera appearances, there has to be a focal point near my face, such as a bold necklace or an interesting collar.

Media Maven's Must-Haves: 

A mega-watt smile and dramatic accessories  

Your pre-interview/shoot rituals: I make sure I’m prepared and have done my homework. When I got the green light to interview Aretha Franklin, I was told it would only be for a quick sound bite so I prepared accordingly. When I learned I would be the only media person allowed into her dressing room that night and that she was willing to talk longer than I anticipated, I knew I was in trouble. Running out of questions, especially in the face of greatness, is very humbling.

Three Queens and a Jackson: 

Candace with N'Digo's Hermene Hartman 

(in blue), Aretha Franklin, and Jesse Jackson

Favorite Watch312.com episode: The coverage of Red Moon Theater Company’s Gala. The visuals were astounding and the party was off the charts. It was put up for Emmy consideration but we didn’t win.

Another favorite piece we just finished tells the story of the building of the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House and features the miraculous story of one of their ambassadors, Max Herrick. I think this documentary has great Emmy potential and I’m so proud of it. (See video below.) 

Your home is on fire. Which material possess- ion would you save: This is a tough one because my husband says he’s never seen anyone so attached to their possessions. If I had to choose one thing, it would be my rare book collection, particularly my signed Harry Potter books. And, of course, family photos, my paperweights, a few paintings, and...

Which journalist has inspired you most: I’m inspired by so many but I most identify with David Patrick Columbia, who writes New York Social Diary. I don’t know how he does it: every single day he pumps out the most amazing content. I’m lucky to get my “blogazine” finished in a week! 

New York Social Diary's pup-loving founder, 

David Patrick Columbia

You are a very accomplished woman: media personality, perfect hostess, loving wife, magazine centerfold, charity emcee, play- wright, fashion darling. What title is next on your list: I would like it to be "talk show host".

Favorite swear word: (Sadly it’s) fuck.

Don't worry, Candace. It's our favorite, too!

What would your friends say about you that you never would: I'm a fiercely loyal friend.

What’s the itinerary for a rare night in: No makeup; pants with an elastic waistband; simple dinner; candlelight and a roaring fireplace; watching a great show, like Downton Abbey or Hercule Poirot; or listening to music from the 1930’s and 1940’s with Chuck, the chihuahuas, and my stepson, Charley.

Best thing about being featured on a Playboy cover: Actually, I’ve been on eight covers (two American and six international). Who wouldn’t love it?  It’s great exposure, no pun intended! 

Candace Collins - Playboy (Sept. 1996) #twinsrock

Candace Collins - Playboy (Feb. 1980)

Candace Collins - Playboy (Feb. 1979)

Perks of being a TV personality: Covering the events and causes I'm passionate about and spotlighting all the great people and places Chicago has to offer.

Best power lunch restaurant: RL Restaurant or if I want to stay in my Old Town 'hood, Nookie’s on Wells Street.

What’s on your 2013 Bucket List: Take a vacation with Chuck (anywhere!); become more organized; gain an even bigger audience for my Chicago Tribune column and website; and host or co-host a network show.

Bucket List: Appear on the cover of 

VS Chicago. Check!

You and your best friend-husband, Chuck, have been married for AGES. How do you keep the sizzle crackling: We do it by being each other’s best friends and biggest champions. He is my greatest joy and the love of my life.

A (LOVE) League of Their Own: 

Candace and Chuck

Your out-of-town friends are on the fence about moving to Chicago. What do you say to sell them: Chicago is one of the world's most exciting cities and it’s getting better every day. We boast one of the nation's top restaurant and nightlife scenes, and our art and cultural festivals rival those in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and throughout Europe. Of course, if the tax discussion comes up, I might have a problem.

You are on a short list of Chicago’s most-snapped. What is your first thought when you see yourself in a newspaper or magazine: Did they give the photographer credit?

Best thing about being Candace Jordan: Being married to Chuck Jordan.

Marital Bliss: Candace & Chuck on 

their wedding day (July 21, 1989) 

Congratulations! You were recently recognized as the “Most Social Scenester” by Racked Awards '12. Not an easy feat, considering the competition. How does it feel to be adored by a 20-to-30-something audience that recognizes you as their city's leading social media authority: It makes me unbelievably proud! It also gives me a heightened sense of obligation to keep putting out content that my readers/viewers will find interesting and 
entertaining and, hopefully, helpful.

Photo Credit:

Lead photo of Candace courtesy of Erika Dufour Photography

Photo of Candace courtesy of Steve Starr

Photo of Candace and Al Pacino courtesy of Mila Samokhina

Photo of Candace for VS Chicago courtesy of Mila Samokhina

Written by Kerry & Sally Shorr 

Chicago The Great!: New online network, Watch312.com, showcases the city's top offerings

Wild On Chicago!: Watch312.com show hosts, 

Candace Jordan, D.C. Crenshaw, and 

Tatiana Garrett featured in CS Magazine

On January 26, well-dressed guests braved one of Chicago’s crispest nights of the year to attend the launch party of Watch312.com, a network of online shows that provides a visual smorgasbord of best-of’s, how-to’s and behind-the-scenes footage. Revelers toasted to the new network and mixed and mingled with show hosts that included Candace Jordan, Amanda Puck, D.C. Crenshaw, Chef Rick Gresh, and others.

Nearly eight weeks later, Luxe File checks in with the network's team of spirited hosts who are giving viewers around the globe an easy-armchair-look at everything - from top chef chats and wow-worthy patisserie preparation to best brunch spots and cult-following fundraisers - that makes our fair metropolis memorable, one episode at a time. 

Here, they talk about their shows, the perks of being an online show host, what they're doing when the cameras aren't rolling, and what they love most about Chicago.

D.C. Crenshaw

Chicago Unplugged

Tell us a little about your online show, Chicago Unplugged, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. Chicago Unplugged shows viewers what’s new and hot on the food scene. I’ll also be attending some of the best food events in the city and frequenting new restaurant openings.

 Little Slice of Heaven: 

Bar Toma pizza

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Interviewing the famed Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten at the Pump Room; going behind-the-scenes with Spiaggia’s Executive Chef Tony Mantuano at his new restaurant, Bar Toma; drinking beer with former White Sox star Frank Thomas at the launch of his Big Hurt Beer; and dining on waygu beef with golf legend, Greg Norman.

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? Taping is quick so we can shoot several episodes in a week or two plus we can reach anyone in the world 24/7, which you can’t do on a cable network.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? I get to eat, and eat and eat! I also get to know some really cool people on a more personal level. Of course, being invited to different restaurants to sample their menus isn’t a bad thing either.

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? I have to start with the restaurants – we are one of the top three cities in the world when it comes to great restaurants. I love how people appreciate the city and take advantage of the outdoors when we have good weather. I also like that Chicagoans are so passionate about their sports teams and support them to the end.

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Tavernita and the newly-renovated Pump Room are cool places to have dinner and cocktails. I’d also recommend Chicago Cut, River North’s popular Union Sushi, or one of the twenty varieties of pizza at Bar Toma in the Gold Coast.

 The Pump Room

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? Winter.

What are you doing when you're not hosting Chicago Unplugged? Spending time with my family and my 8-week-old son, Cruz, and working on a number of projects including the launch of my new Wansas ultra premium tequila (due out this spring).

Tatiana Garrett

Chicago Tails

Tell us a little about your online show, Chicago Tails, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. My show takes viewers on a weekly exploration of all things pertaining to pets. See local celebrities with their pets, discover services and locales that cater to animal lovers, and learn about some important animal welfare issues, too.

Diet & Fitness expert, Andrea Metcalf, 

and her bulldog, Wrigley

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Talking to Scottie Pippen and Derrick Rose about how the Chicago Bulls are helping pit bulls; spending time with Ted Brunson, host of Chicago’s Best and America’s Best Bites; and doing PAWsilates with Andrea Metcalf (above) and some adorable pooches.

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? In addition to hosting Chicago Tails, I am the Director of Community Outreach for The Anti-Cruelty Society, Chicago’s oldest and largest private nonprofit animal welfare organization. The show allows the message of empathy and compassion to animals to be spread across the world without any limits.

 Puggie Love

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Watch312.com launched on January 26 and it’s been amazing to be part of the “family” with such extraordinary people like Candace Jordan, Amanda Puck, D.C. Crenshaw, and Rick Gresh to name just a few. Getting my first press pass and using it for a Bulls game was awesome – that was an experience I won’t forget. 

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? I love this city! The food, culture, and history are all so near and dear to my heart including the lush green, outdoor spaces, the dog parks, and beaches.    

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Check in frequently with Watch312.com – all the new restaurants and hot spots will be featured. Chicago Tails is also planning segments on how to travel with pets, pet-friendly bars & eateries, posh pet services, and fun events like Bark in the Park, a dog-friendly 5K walk on May 5th benefitting The Anti-Cruelty Society.

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? While I’m blessed to meet and work with so many caring and compassionate people who’ve made it their mission to rescue animals, there is still many cases of animal cruelty in this city. By raising public awareness and teaching empathy and compassion for all living beings, we can help end the violence.

What are you doing when you're not hosting Chicago Tails? I love attending cultural events and lectures as well as trying new restaurants with friends. I’m into unique sporting events and have two plunges under my belt for the Lakeview Polar Bear Club. I also participate in City Chase and the Urban Assault Ride every summer. Traveling is also a serious passion of mine!

Rick Gresh

Chef City with Rick Gresh

Tell us a little about your online show, Chef City with Rick Gresh, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. The show offers a behind-the-scenes look into the kitchens, and lives, of Chicago’s most renowned chefs.

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Not yet because we’re still finalizing the first season of shows but there’s a few episodes I’m looking forward to shooting including: fishing with Giuseppe Tentori from GT Fish & Oyster; a Golf Challenge where viewers will have the chance to win dinner for two; and cooking with chefs in their home kitchens.

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? Getting to learn so much about Chicago. Everyone I've worked with has been fantastic and loves what we’re showcasing.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Access to restricted areas and getting to eat superb cuisine with Chicago's leading culinaires.

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? The culinary scene, Lake Michigan, and neighborhood hangouts. I also enjoy having a beer or cocktail on an outdoor patio with friends or attending a Cubs game.

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? The city is beautiful in the summer so check out the popular outdoor venues like Millennium Park and Wrigley Field or enjoy a long walk along the lakefront – Chicago boasts ones of the best beaches in the Midwest.

Model Player: Victoria Secret's Marisa Miller 

at Wrigley Field

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? The transportation system – the expressways can get way too congested.

Mint! A 1972 Super Beatle

What are you doing when you're not hosting Chef City with Rick Gresh? Riding “Betty”, the motorcycle I built last year, or building custom furniture in my wood shop. I also like spending time in the garden, restoring my ‘72 Super Beetle, or brewing homemade beer.

Candace Jordan

Candid Candace Chicago

Tell us a little about your online show, Candid Candace Chicago, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. Watch312.com is Chicago’s first online network connecting viewers to everything cool in the Windy City. There is something for everyone on this network. 

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share?  The segment I taped with The Herrick's, Ronald McDonald’s Ambassador family. Their young son, Max, had received a heart transplant when he was two years old but the medication caused him to develop cancers all over his little body. The last email from his mother was hopeless but today, he is almost cancer-free. I believe in miracles and it’s one of the best stories I have heard.

 Max Herrick: Cute and cancer-free

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? Talking to funny, fabulous people at some of the coolest parties, street fests, galas, fundraisers, and film premieres around town.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Feeling like I’m part of a big, happy family with the same goals and aspirations. Everyone at Watch312.com is so dedicated and hard-working, it makes the job even more exciting and fun. 

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? First and foremost, I love the people. Then there’s the sheer beauty of this lovely city, once nicknamed “Paris on the Prairie.”

Paris on the Prairie: Design of Chicago from 

Daniel Hudson Burnham's "City Beautiful" plan 

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Chicago Gourmet, Navy Pier, Millennium Park’s skating rink, Randolph Street Market, Old Town Art Fair, architectural river cruises, Wrigley Field, and Leslie Hindman Auctioneers (one of the best in the country).

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? The taxis – they’re actually old city police cars so you feel like a criminal crammed in the backseat!

What are you doing when you're not hosting Candid Candace Chicago? (Laughing) Thinking about shows I WANT to host! 

Veronica & Mark Kwasigroch

Dream Cakes

Tell us a little about your online show, Dream Cakes, and what viewers can expect when they tune in? We’re a passionate, crazy husband-and-wife team that shows viewers how to make great recipes at home while having fun in the kitchen.

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Mark wearing his grandmother’s babushka while making polish cookies and me surprising him with a handful of powdered sugar in his face!

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? Having the opportunity to be ourselves and share what we love to do with others.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Meeting and working with such interesting and talented people.

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? From its magnificent architecture, lush landscapes, and unique history to its diverse cultures and cuisines, Chicago is a city that truly has it all.

 SOFA Chicago

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Wendella Architectural Tours, Chicago Botanical Gardens, Ravinia, Air & Water Show, art fairs, Michigan Avenue, D’Arte on Milwaukee Avenue, Butterfly on Grand Street, Olive Park, and a trip to Whole Foods for dessert from Dream Cakes.

 From Olive Park with Love

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? The cold weather for me, and traffic and parking for Mark.

What are you doing when you're not hosting your show? I’m usually at the Dream Cakes Bakery and Mark teaches at Kendall College.

David Martin

4x4 with David Martin

Tell us a little about your online show, 4x4 with David Martin, and what viewers can expect when they tune in? I show viewers four things they don't know about an exciting place in Chicago or an event that's coming up.

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Going behind-the-scenes at The Shedd Aquarium. I had no idea how many hours the trainers put in with the dolphins.

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? My favorite part is getting a first-hand look at Chicago’s top attractions and events.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Getting paid to talk too much and getting to know many local celebrities.

 Skyline Spectacular!

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? I love the skyline and Chicago's diversity. I’ve traveled a lot and I can say Chicago's nightlife is second to none.

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Navy Pier, The Shedd Aquarium, and Wrigleyville. For dining, you can't go wrong eating at Pegasus in Greek Town or at Mike Ditka's restaurant.

 Beautiful Beast: Dolphin-training 

at the Shedd Aquarium

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? The winter weather.

What are you doing when you're not hosting 4x4 with David Martin? I'm on the air at WVON 1690 as a News and Traffic anchor from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday.

Amanda Puck

dish IT! with Amanda Puck

Tell us a little about your online show, dish IT! with Amanda Puck, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. dish IT! with Amanda Puck is basically my life – people are always asking me where should I go for great sushi, what new place should I try – so we just get our amazing camera crew ready and go hit the town in search of the answers.

 Man, that shucks! GT Fish & Oyster's 

Giuseppe Tentori and the 2012 Jean Blanchet 

"Chef of the Year" winner

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? I tried to shuck an oyster with Chef Giuseppe Tentori at GT Fish & Oyster – damn those oysters are tough! His team are amazing shuckers! 

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? I love that the shows can be viewed whenever you have time, and most shows are under ten minutes.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? Going around town, trying all the great food Chicago dishes up. Everyone has been so great and welcoming. I love the Chicago hospitality.

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? The cuisines, the variety of restaurants and the FUN!

 What Lola Wants: Aviary's "Porthole" cocktail

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Try a Chicago hot dog then cocktails at Aviary.

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? Not a THING!

What are you doing when you're not hosting dish IT! with Amanda Puck? Eating, and most likely drinking!

Lonnell Williams

OverexposureTV
(Pictured second from left)

Tell us a little about your online show, OverexposureTV, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. Our show is different than the others in that we have a cadre of talented hosts. Each of us is a specialist in a different area, ranging from entertainment and journalism to hacking and technology.

OverexposureTV focuses on technology and the environment and how both influence our lives and the world around us.

 Ferrari Fiorano 599 GTB: 

What "Hey, it's just money" looks like

Any memorable stand-out moments you'd like to share? Getting behind the wheel of a $260,000 Ferrari Fiorano and meeting then-gubernatorial candidate, Rahm Emanuel.

What is your favorite part about being an online TV show host? The amenities. Getting two ubiquitous reactions when I tell people what I do and seeing people get excited when I say the show is online – I really feel that energy. I'm blessed to be a part of this creative endeavor.

Hosting an online show sounds like an exciting gig! What are some of the perks? The ability to engage with a global audience at ground level. For instance, I enjoy being able to travel to a place like Berlin and talk to friends who have seen OverexposureTV, answer their questions about the show or Chicago, and then synthesize that conversation into bits of knowledge for forthcoming episodes. 

 Chicago Green: City Hall's 20,300-square-foot "green roof"

Watch312.com is all about showcasing the best Chicago has to offer. What are some of the things you love most about our city? Chicago’s competitive posture in becoming a globally-renowned,  'green city'. Already ranked amongst the nation's top ten greenest cities, Chicago boasts some really cool green hotels, restaurants, and museums. It's really something to brag about.

What are some of the top destinations, events, restaurants, and attractions you would recommend viewers try? Willis Tower’s Skydeck, Karyn's on Green, Millennium Park’s Monday Nights in the Park and Grant Park Music Festival, and Garfield Park Conservatory.

If you could change one thing about Chicago, what would it be? Reducing the city’s automobile dependence and making it more bike-friendly. I’d also like to be able to jog and bike year round.

What are you doing when you're not hosting OverexposureTV? I'm working on a music video for a talented Chicago music producer who goes by the name “The North”. It employs galactic visual effects, stylized costuming, fluid choreography, and some cool sets. It's one of those things where every time you read the script, you get goose bumps.

Photo of Amanda Puck courtesy of Helena Rafeyan

Posted by Kerry & Sally Shorr