Archive for May, 2010

HOTEL ORRINGTON BECOMES HILTON ORRINGTON

HOTEL ORRINGTON BECOMES HILTON ORRINGTON

[ 0 ] May 27, 2010 |

HOTEL ORRINGTON BECOMES HILTON ORRINGTON

hotelorrington
EVANSTON, Ill. – Hotel Orrington, located on Chicago’s North Shore, will become the Hilton Orrington on May 4, 2010.

The nine-story 269 room hotel at 1710 Orrington Ave., Evanston, Ill., first opened its doors in 1923.  Totally renovated and reopened in 2005, Hotel Orrington continues to be the premier locale for upscale parties, bar and bat mitzvahs and glamorous weddings. The hotel also offers meeting planners an IACCC-approved 12,000 square foot Conference Center for meetings from 10 to 300.  Dining options at Hotel Orrington include The Globe Café, Futami Restaurant and Indigo lounge.

“The Hilton name will bring additional traffic to the hotel and increase awareness of this great property,” said general manager Russ Abell, who will continue as general manager of the property.

Abell said staffing will remain the same with Randy Pluta handling sales and marketing and Glenn Griffith overseeing catering.
“Our meeting and event planners and guests will receive the same outstanding service from our experienced team of hospitality professionals,” Abel said.
Located in the heart of Evanston, Ill., Hotel Orrington is within walking distance of 186 specialty shops, 72 restaurants, the Northwestern University campus, and beautiful Lake Michigan, and is just 30 minutes from O’Hare International Airport.  Hotel Orrington is managed by Magna Hospitality.

 Please mention Hereschicago.com when contacting us!

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Personal Flip Video Cam Tour of Vertigo Sky Lounge Rooftop at the Dana Hotel & Spa in Chicago

Personal Flip Video Cam Tour of Vertigo Sky Lounge Rooftop at the Dana Hotel & Spa in Chicago

[ 0 ] May 27, 2010 |

Fogo De Chao Private Dining Brazilian Style

Fogo De Chao Private Dining Brazilian Style

[ 0 ] May 22, 2010 |

fogo de chao Chicago Private Dining


661 N La Salle St.
Chicago, IL 60654

Fogo de Chão is the perfect location to host your group or private dining event. Your guests will enjoy Fogo’s elegant and authentic experience. And, you will appreciate our helpful and knowledgeable staff. Fogo provides with the table layout flexibility you need as an event planner. Whether you desire an all inclusive package or an a la carte dining experience Fogo offers the flexibility to customize your event to your exact needs.

Our Chicago restaurant is located in the heart of River North. Guests are welcomed by a striking blue tower housing an authentic fogo de chão, the type of ground fire originally used for cooking meat in Southern Brazil.

Valet parking is offered during lunch and dinner, with limited metered parking streetside. Several parking garages are also located throughout the area.

Private or Semi Private Space Available:
Yes

F&B minimum to reserve / use the room (s):
No

Rental Fee to Reserve / Use the Room:
No

Classic Party Rentals

Classic Party Rentals

[ 0 ] May 21, 2010 |

Classic Party Rentals
9480 W 55th St

IL 60525

classic party rentals chicago

Classic Chicago Party Rental is the Midwest’s largest event rental company and among the largest in the country. Our 35 plus years of experience combined with our wide selection of event and food service equipment along with our extensive inventory of tents and clearspan structures can accommodate all types of events.

Classic Party Rentals has many target markets which include corporate functions, weddings, outdoor celebrations, catered affairs, fundraising galas, home entertaining and large scale national events.

We provide:

Classic Tents
Unique Tabletop Rentals

Prime Event Group
Designer & Lounge Furniture
Chameleon Chairs

Please mention hereschicago.com when contacting me.

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Hospitality One Party and Event Staffing/Services

Hospitality One Party and Event Staffing/Services

[ 0 ] May 21, 2010 |

Hospitality One
9854 Farragut Ave.
Rosemont, IL 60018

Hospitality One Event Staffing Chicago

Hospitality One has specialized in providing quality staff for the hospitality industry since 2003. We have been delivering superior and professional staff to over 9,000 events ranging from 5 to 6,000 attendees in the greater Chicago land area, to locations as diverse as street festivals and museum campuses to corporate offices and private homes. Hospitality One has had the privilege of serving with some of Chicago’s premier hotels, catering companies, event planning services, and private clients.

Hospitality One provides staffing services in the food service end of the hospitality industry, some of the positions H1 provides staff for are:

• Greeters, Hosts/Hostesses

• Function Directors
• Servers
• Bartenders

• Culinary Staff

• Event Attendants

Drury Lane of Oakbrook Terrace presents the musical comedy SUGAR

Drury Lane of Oakbrook Terrace presents the musical comedy SUGAR

[ 0 ] May 20, 2010 |

grouphotelrooms

Oakbrook Terrace, IL –Following the resounding success of RAGTIME, Drury Lane Theatre continues their celebration of ‘the year of the Director’ with Jim Corti’s dazzling production of the musical comedy SUGAR which previews at Drury Lane Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, on June 3, opens June 12 at 8:30 p.m. and runs through August 1.  Adapted from the Oscar winning 1959 Billy Wilder gem “Some Like It Hot” starring Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe, SUGAR is a sexy Prohibition-era musical farce that romps from Chicago to Miami, with a slew of chaotic mishaps.  Jim Corti, who directed and choreographed last season’s sensational production of CABARET and won the Jeff Award for Best Director for Drury Lane’s SWEET CHARITY, brings a uniquely cinematic approach to this rarely revived forgotten beauty.  Rod Thomas (directly from the Las Vegas production of THE LION KING) and Jennifer Knox (national tour of CATS) return to Chicago to headline the all-star cast.

sugar

On the eve of the Great Depression in Chicago, the St. Valentine’s Day massacre plays out its bloody aftermath in a Clark Street garage accidentally witnessed by Joe (Rod Thomas) and Jerry (Alan Schmuckler), two down on their luck musicians.  After being discovered by Capone’s hit men, their only ticket out of town is to disguise themselves as females and join Sue (Tammy Mader), the leader of Sweet Sue And Her Society Syncopaters, an all-female band headed for Miami.  The chase is on but the boys can’t help chasing a skirt themselves when they fall for the band’s lead singer, a blonde bombshell named Sugar (Jennifer Knox.)  At risk of being caught by The Mob, Joe and Jerry pursue Sugar while keeping their real identities a secret.  More than anything, Sugar wants to marry a millionaire, prompting Joe to disguise himself as the man of her dreams. Meanwhile, wealthy and elderly Osgood Fielding Jr. (Joe Lauck) is pursuing Daphne, unaware she really is Jerry in drag. 

SUGAR first opened at the Majestic Theater in 1972 and ran for 505 performances, earning four Tony Award nominations.  The rarely seen musical comedy features an exhilarating score by composer Jule Styne and lyricist Bob Merrill (GYPSY, FUNNY GIRL) with a book by Peter Stone.  Both outrageous and touching, SUGAR features memorable musical numbers including Penniless Bums, The Beauty That Drives Men Mad, We Could Be Close, Doin’ It for Sugar, What Do You Give (To a Man Who Has Everything?), Beautiful Through and Through and November Song.

The all-star cast of SUGAR also includes Norm Boucher as “Spats Palazzo,” Christopher Damiano as “Dude,” Stef Tovar as “Bienstock”, and ensemble members Jason Bayle, Steve Calzaretta, Brandon Dahlquist, Trisha Ditsworth, Lauren Fijol, Michael Glazer, Tiffany Herlien, Kelli Morgan, Danielle Plisz, Andrea Prestinario, Megan Simmons, Brandon Springman, Richard Strimer, William Travis Taylor and Andrew Weir.

Joining Director and Choreographer Jim Corti will be Musical Director Ben Johnson.  Set Design is by Brian Sidney Bembridge, Costume Design by Melissa Torchia with Costume Manager Erika Senase, Lighting Design is by Jesse Klug, Sound Design is by Cecil Averett and Properties Design is by Greg Isaac. 

The performance schedule is as follows:  Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. ($31), Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. ($31) and 8 p.m. ($38), Fridays at 8:30 p.m. ($45), Saturdays at 5 p.m. ($45) and 8:30 p.m. ($45) and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. ($45) and 6 p.m. ($40).  Lunch and dinner theater packages range from $45.75 to $68 depending on the day of the week.  Student tickets start as low as $19 and Senior Citizen tickets start as low as $27 for matinees and $41.75 for a matinee luncheon package.  For reservations, phone (630) 530-0111 or call TicketMaster at 800.745.3000.

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Edventure Promotions, Inc., a Chicago based promotional marketing company, received the Pyramid Award in the category of “Best Self Promotion” at the PPAI 52nd Annual Awards Dinner-in Las Vegas

Edventure Promotions, Inc., a Chicago based promotional marketing company, received the Pyramid Award in the category of “Best Self Promotion” at the PPAI 52nd Annual Awards Dinner-in Las Vegas

[ 0 ] May 19, 2010 |

edventure

Edventure Promotions, Inc., a Chicago based promotional marketing company, received the Pyramid Award in the category of “Best Self Promotion” at the PPAI 52nd Annual Awards Dinner-in Las Vegas – held at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center.

“Winning this award is very special and meaningful, not just to us but to our clients especially”- said Ed Levy, the company’s founder and President. “We needed to create a winning program for ourselves in order to reinforce how powerful promotional products can be in any marketing experience-Levy noted. He added – “I believe very strongly that if you’re not able to prove your strategies and tactics within your own organization, why should anyone else want to follow your advice.”

For the past 16 years Edventure Promotions has been integrating ROI measurement tactics into its promotion solutions that translate into huge returns for its clients – Edventure Promotions Pyramid Award Article

Based on the award and recognition by the PPAI, Edventure Promotions is developing a collection of custom and semi-custom self-promotion campaigns based on their award-winning concept. Designed specifically to reach key B2B decision makers and influencers in upper management and C-level positions, each promotional concept will have the flexibility to be personalized and produced in very small quantities.

For more information, contact Ed Levy at 312.440.1800 or

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Where to watch the World Cup in Chicago

Where to watch the World Cup in Chicago

[ 0 ] May 19, 2010 |

fadoworldcup

World Cup fever is underway and Fadó Irish Pub once again promises to show all 64 games live in an atmosphere that all fans of the beautiful game seek.  

As a friend of the pub, starting June 11 we want to invite you and your mates down to cheer on your country in a space you can call your own.    

During most of the early round games (where we can accommodate), we’ll work with you to reserve a space at no charge. With a premium draft selection and delicious, traditional Irish food, Fado offers affordable, customized food and beverage packages that will ensure everyone has a good time …regardless of whether your team wins or loses!

Even though Ireland is not competing in this year’s tournament, we are excited to offer the best in Irish hospitality and celebrate along with you!

- No Deposit Necessary
- Customized Food and Beverage Packages available.

Fadó Irish Pub is easy to find and once you come in, it will be difficult to leave.

Click here for more information or to contact Cassie Carroll at Fado Irish Pub.  Please mention Hereschicago.com

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THE WOMEN’S BAR ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS WELCOMES ITS 2010  EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DIRECTORS AT THE 96th ANNUAL INSTALLATION DINNER

THE WOMEN’S BAR ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS WELCOMES ITS 2010 EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DIRECTORS AT THE 96th ANNUAL INSTALLATION DINNER

[ 0 ] May 14, 2010 |

THE WOMEN’S BAR ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS WELCOMES ITS 2010 EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DIRECTORS AT THE 96th ANNUAL INSTALLATION DINNER

CHICAGO—On June 3, the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois (“WBAI”) will celebrate its 96th Annual Installation Dinner. The WBAI Annual Installation Dinner marks the installation of the WBAI’s incoming executive board and officers, commences the new term for the bar, and honors the annual recipient of the Women with Vision Award. Each year the WBAI looks forward to hosting over 800 judges, attorneys, corporate supporters, and prominent leaders to inaugurate another year dedicated to furthering the mission of the WBAI.

Since 1914, the mission of the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois has been to promote and foster, advance and protect the interests and welfare of women lawyers; to encourage a spirit of friendship and mutual helpfulness among its members; to aid in the enactment of legislation for the common good and the administration of justice; and to promote and protect the interests and the rights of women. This year, the WBAI will foster its mission and begin its new term by focusing on the theme selected by its incoming president: “Giving Back to the Community.” To appropriately kick-off the theme, the WBAI is proud to honor Allison Rosati as this year’s recipient of the WBAI’s Women with Vision Award, an award intended to recognize an individual for his or her contribution to the well-being and empowerment of women.

Ms. Rosati is co-anchor of NBC5 News’ award-winning news team at 5, 6 and 10 p.m. As a respected journalist for over twenty years, Ms. Rosati has demonstrated a commitment to issues impacting women and children. Ms. Rosati has also received numerous other awards for her professional endeavors and humanitarian efforts. Ms. Rosati volunteers her time for many Chicago-area organizations and is the embodiment of the WBAI’s 2010 theme of “Giving Back to the Community.”

In addition to honoring Ms. Rosati, the WBAI is excited to welcome its new executive board and directors at the 96th Annual Installation Dinner, with the ceremonious swearing-in of its governing council. This year, the WBAI will be led by its 96th President, Kathryn Gallanis Matern, of the Chicago law firm Bruce Farrel Dorn & Associates. First Vice-President Deane B. Brown, Second Vice-President Karina DeHayes, Financial Secretary Michelle Kohut, Treasurer Eugena Whitson-Owen, Recording Secretary Sarah Breitlander, and Corresponding Secretary Jessica Arong O’Brien will also partake in the oath of office. Additionally, newly elected directors Sarah Greene and Belinda Scrimenti will be sworn-in. Also, continuing directors Kristin Barnette, Deanna Blair, Vickie Voukidis Blum, Jennifer Irmen, Adria Mossing, Rosa Tumiálan, RoxAnne Rochester, and Karie J. Valentino will renew their oath of office. The WBAI will also honor retiring officers Hon. Jeanne M. Reynolds and Navdeep Gill. Outgoing President Hon. Patrice Ball-Reed and Incoming President Kathryn Gallanis Matern will address guests of the Annual Installation to commemorate the successful 2009-2010 term and to set forth goals for success in the term to come.

The WBAI’s 96th Annual Installation Dinner is generously sponsored by Diamond Sponsor Goldberg, Weisman Cairo, Platinum Sponsor Anesi, Ozmon, Rodin, Novak, & Kohen, Ltd. and Platinum Sponsor Nolan Law Group. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for this well-attended special event. Several tiers of sponsorship are available and each sponsorship level is uniquely recognized for its contribution.

Meeting Professionals International Chicago Area Chapter Award Winners Announced

Meeting Professionals International Chicago Area Chapter Award Winners Announced

[ 0 ] May 14, 2010 |

mpicaclogo

Meeting Professionals International Chicago Area Chapter Award Winners Announced

Unconventional Ceremony Held Throughout Leadership Education & Awards Program – “L.E.A.P.”

Chicago, IL – May 14, 2010 Meeting Professionals International, Chicago Area Chapter (MPI-CAC), a professional association serving 1,300+ meetings industry professionals announced the winners of its 2010 Annual Awards during its day long Leadership Education & Awards Program (L.E.A.P.), held at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers on April 26, 2010. Chicago area business professionals from the meeting management, event marketing and hospitality sector enjoyed the unconventional agenda which includedMPI award-winner recognition elements amidst a rapid moving presentation from numerous thought leaders across all industries with an array of entertainment segments from Broadway and the performing arts. As an alternative to the traditional awards gala and ceremony, Chapter award announcements were made throughout the day, celebrating the Hall of Fame Individual, Hall of Fame Organization, Kathy Osterman Industry Award, and President’s Award winners honored at the luncheon.

The MPI-CAC 2010 Award Winners:

Chapter Leader:

Lisa Meredith, CMP, Director of Association Sales – Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau

Planner Member: Jane Mundell, CMP, Senior Meetings Manager – Association of Legal Administrators

Supplier Member:

Denise Mongoven, Director of National Accounts – San Diego Convention Center

Student Member: Bradley Kenaga – Joliet Junior College

Tomorrow’s Leader:

Meghan Keelean, Meeting Planner – American Student Dental Association

Emily Miller, Project Coordinator – One Smooth Stone

Kristine Morgan, CMP, Meetings Manager – APICS The Association for Operations Management

Kathleen Nelson, Account Manager – Chicago Is…,Inc.

Hall of Fame – Organization: Chicago Indoor Racing, LLC

Kathy Osterman Industry Award: Chicago 2016 Committee

President’s Awards

Achievement: Joe Hirsch, Vice President, Branch Sales – PSAV Presentation Services

Effort: Char Shada, CMP, Strategic Account Manager – Experient

Team Spirit: Sean Lynch, Executive Vice President – NHS

The day’s education was launched by a high-powered panel of media moguls: Richard Aaron, CMP, CSEP – BizBash Media President; Torey Malatia – President & CEO of Chicago Public Radio; Kathryn Humphreys – Hubbard Street Dance Studio. Highlights of the day’s offerings that made the event stand out from others included timely discussions about facets affecting the Chicago area meetings and conventions industry today. Chicago’s Mayor Richard M. Daley kicked the day off with a pre-recorded statement offering his support for the Chapter and meetings industry. The program closed with a networking reception, award winner highlights taken from the presentations that occurred throughout the day and a performance by local blues band Rodney Brown & Hodrod.

“I firmly believe that the L.E.A.P. content may be the best ever constructed by the MPI Chicago Chapter,” stated Chrissy Ward, MPI-CAC president and association executive with the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists. “I am particularly pleased with the Chicago-centric community tone of the program. The addresses by leaders of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau and McCormick Place were welcomed by our members and created a renewed enthusiasm for the Chicago meetings industry.”

MPI-CAC L.E.A.P. Program Chair, Bill Kubiak, CSEP, Freeman ,General Manager, added, “The committee really wanted a program that stood out among ordinary industry awards ceremonies. We wanted to mix education, networking and recognition… and the result was a phenomenal event.”

Further, a long-time MPI-CAC member and L.E.A.P. attendee Brian Palmer, president of National Speakers Bureau stated, “Moment after moment was laced with great bits. I had a wonderful time, learned a good deal and recognize the boost such a gathering gives our chapter and our industry.”

To learn more about the benefits of MPI-CAC membership, including access to a current event calendar and career center, visit mpicac.org or call 888-721-8908.


About Meeting Professionals International – and MPI-Chicago Area Chapter

Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the meeting and event industry’s largest and most vibrant global community. MPI global membership is comprised of more than 24,000 members belonging to 70 chapters and clubs worldwide. It serves its members by providing human connections to knowledge and ideas, relationships, and marketplaces. As the largest chapter within the 24,000+ member global Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the 1,300 member Chicago Area Chapter has connected its community of meeting and event professionals to comprehensive support, industry knowledge and business opportunities since its inception in 1976. For more information, visit mpicac.org or call 888-721-8908.

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