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As (Never Before) Seen On TV


Call us obsessed, but we can’t get enough of the tempting talking heads on Chicago’s small screens. Brains, beauty and breaking news… what’s not to love? And now photographer Maria Ponce is giving us a preview of her new exhibit, “On TV/Off TV” (opening at the Packer Schopf Gallery next month), for which she’s captured local television’s most gorgeous faces— including that of her brother, NBC 5’s Anthony Ponce—in a decidedly camera-unready way. Yet, lo and behold, they look better than ever.

“On TV/Off TV” includes the intertwined solo shows of Maria Ponce and her mother, Ann Ponce, a celebrated contemporary painter who has created portraits of some of Maria’s subjects. November 20–December 23. Packer Schopf Gallery, 942 W. Lake St., 312-226-8984; packergallery.com



OBSESSIONS:
Michigan football. Yes, they’re in a funk right now, but they’ll work through it and maybe one day figure out how to beat Jim Tressel and Ohio State.

Lebanese food. My father’s from Lebanon, so anytime I can find a restaurant with tabouli and kibbe that rivals what I grew up with, I’m sold!

My family. Two kids under two, my college sweetheart— my life is frenetic, but very full!
 



OBSESSIONS:
Saturdays. I spend my weekend days exploring Chicago neighborhoods, trying to discover random bakeries. And bars.

Scout. This Andersonville shop is filled with unusual objects for the home, all lovingly collected by shopkeeper Larry Vodak.

Cetaphil lotion. The drugstore wonder cream is my all-time favorite. Period.

Lake Geneva. Late summer afternoons on a dock in Lake Geneva with friends, cards and no
evening plans. It doesn’t get better than that.

My kids. Enough said.
 



OBSESSIONS:
The news. I’m a very annoying person to watch television with, especially the news. I’m constantly flipping back and forth between stations because I like to see what CBS’ competitors are doing.

Walking around the city. I walk everywhere, especially on the weekend, even during the winter months. One of my favorite views is of the Chicago River. There is nothing like walking across it on either State Street or Michigan Avenue.

Art fairs. This is one of my favorite summer pastimes, and I especially enjoy the Wells Street Art Festival. This summer I was especially excited because one of my favorite artists, Michael Leu, participated.

Beauty products.
I’m slightly obsessed with Solar Oil. It’s great for your nails, ladies!

Murder mysteries.
There is nothing like a good mystery novel. They truly are a favorite!
 



OBSESSIONS:
Argentina. I’m planning a two-week trip—hiking in Patagonia, sightseeing in Buenos Aires—and I’m so excited it’s been hard to think about anything else.

My phone(s). I unfortunately carry two: work and personal. So unhealthy is this obsession that during my lowest moments, I’ll be double-fisting while crossing a busy intersection. Only during moments of clarity do I think of Tyler Durden in Fight Club, who warned, “The things you own end up owning you.”

Steak burritos from El Burrito Mexicano in Wrigleyville. When I’m around ’em, I devour ’em. When I’m away from ’em, I think about ’em. When I’m asleep, I dream about ’em.
 



OBSESSIONS:
My family and friends. They truly are the best.

My boxer, Rudy. He is and always will be the love of my life.

The duck tortellini at Rose Angelis. I could eat it every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Being neat and clean. My mom says I am on the verge of having OCD.

Shoes. J.Crew are my favorite. It’s kind of a problem.

Writing. I have kept a journal of my life since middle school.
 



OBSESSIONS:
Running. There is no question I’m not at my best without a daily run along the lakefront.

Montana. Fifteen years ago we bought a modest second home in a pretty spot at the foot of the Rockies. I might be clinically obsessed with this vacation escape.

Family. I do work hard, but if I don’t have the balance of my wife and kids all weekend long, the world is not right for me.

Coffee. OK, I’ll admit it, whether it’s Evanston’s Casteel Coffee or a good dark roast from Starbucks, coffee is part of my best livin’.
 


After leaving NBC 5 this summer, Davlantes is remaining mum about her next career move until that pesky non-compete is up. Word on the street, however, is that she’s staying local, meaning her countless fans can rejoice.

OBSESSIONS:
Lou Malnati’s & Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta, which are owned by the same family. I absolutely love their pizza; there’s something about that crust!

Julius Meinl lattes. They come in a huge cup with tons of froth. Drinking them is a Zenlike experience.

The new outdoor terrace at the Shedd Aquarium. Hands down, it’s the best view of our incredible city skyline.

Steve Cochran on WGN radio. I stalk him and hang outside the big glass window at the Tribune Tower, making faces, holding signs. Sometimes he takes pity on me and lets me in.

Reno 911! Especially Lt. Dangle. The show is my no-longer-secret obsession. Lt. Dangle is hilarious. I follow him on Twitter and that’s how I found out the series was canceled. Oh, no!
 

BY KATE TEMPLIN
PHOTOGRAPHS BY Maria Ponce


The complete article appears on page 82 in the October 2009 issue of Michigan Avenue. SUBSCRIBE NOW and get Michigan Avenue delivered direct.

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