Wed. October 23, 2013
By Terrence Chappell
"When I took over the Pump Room, I was lucky enough to inherit the incredible photos of all of the celebrities, actors, comedians, musicians, artists, politicians and world leaders that graced the restaurant in its heyday. These photos now proudly line the walls of the Pump Room entrance and other public spaces in the hotel. In honor of this milestone, I wanted to create a new wall of photos of today's "Chicago Icons" that we feel represent the modern day cultural milieu," said Schrager.
The Women's Board of the Joffrey Ballet hosted their annual Couture and Cocktails at the historic Park West, which has become quite the signature fall fashion event of every year. Co-chaired by Sonya Y. Jackson for the second year in a row, and Kathleen Henson, this year's event attracted over 300 guests and took a theatrical approach with special performances by Joffrey ballet dancers adorned in famous costumes from Romero and Juliet, The Nutcracker, and Le Sacre du Printemps, and models rocking the runway with designer pieces from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, a major sponsor of the evening as well.
As a member of the Joffrey Auxiliary Board, I should say that my favorite part of the evening was the costumes or supporting the Joffrey as a whole. But why lie, the highlight of my night was when DJ Matt Roan blasted Juciy J's Bandz a Make Her Dance at such an unexpected event, of course by request of yours truly. The confused look on all the guests, in particular the older ones and their inquiries as to what the rapper is talking about was not only hilarious but priceless; certainly made for a memorable moment at Couture & Cocktails.
Behind every man and hair flip is a powerful woman. So, I was thrilled to attend this year's YWCA's Why Women Matter Leader Lunheon at the Fairmont Hotel. The luncheon honored influential women and their contributions to the community. Co-chair Linal Harris, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer of U.S. Cellular, welcomed guests and expressed his humble honor of being asked to co-hair this year's luncheon and being the first male co-chair.
According to the website YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The luncheon also invited guests to support the mission all from the comfort of their seats by sending donations with their smartphones. Names of each donating guests was flashed across the room's large LCD screens.
"For over 25 years, Barbara has designed for the greatest of Chicago. We would like our guests to have walked away with the importance of mammogram screening, a heightened awareness of Breast Cancer in the African and Latino communities, and the art of Fashion. We also want them to have seen what giving does in any arena," said Keith.
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