Marklund hosting 13th 'Top Hat Ball'
Marklund will host its 13th annual "Top Hat Ball," appropriately titled "RED" in recognition of Valentine's Day, Saturday, Feb. 14, at Navy Pier's historic Grand Ballroom, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Cocktails are from 6 to 7 p.m. with dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. Entertainment and dancing take place following dinner. Proceeds will benefit the infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities who are served by Marklund.
Enjoy a chance of a lifetime at a private, interactive experience with the Green Witch of "Wicked." Ten girls and their moms will have lunch with the professional actress Dee Roscioli who played Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in Chicago's performance "Wicked." The girls will get their very own autograph session, plus autographed memorabilia including the green makeup used on set, playbill and photos.
Other live auction items include: a weekend in Germany's Black Forest with a Porsche 911; an Olympic Ski Experience with Billy Kidd in Steamboat, Colo.; a scrimmage with Blackhawk alumni; chef Jim Champman of Cafe 100-Eurest will cook privately for six; a Disney family cruise; a Costa Rica trip; Le Cordon Blue adventure in Paris; America's Cup Stars and Stripes aboard Dennis Conner's yacht; Wrigley rooftop tickets; dazzling pieces of fine jewelry; a trip to Vail, Colo.; a spa getaway at Kohler's American Club; Goodman Theatre tickets with dinner and weekend stay at Chicago's Lake Point Towers; a weekend and spa getaway at Herrington Inn; and Cubs and Bulls memorabilia.
Top Hat guests will enjoy a Valentine's Day black tie gala with special entertainment including professional dancers from State Street Dance Company and by Redmoon Theatre Group. Plans include many "scarlet surprises," premium cocktails, a fine dining experience, dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra, a lavish live auction, and the chance to mingle with local celebrities including Steve Sanders of WGN TV.
At the Top Hat Ball, Marklund's top award, "Friend of the Year," will be presented to Greg Osko of Wheaton, an exceptional Marklund supporter. Founder of Trust Company of Illinois, Osko has had a significant impact on Marklund by providing leadership on its board of directors, Top Hat Ball committee, and steering committee for the Mill Creek Campus in Geneva. He was the chairman of the Marklund board of directors during the campaign to build the campus in Geneva.
"The Marklund Friend of the Year must demonstrate in his or her own way, publicly or privately, a heart of gold and the willingness to serve Marklund's infants, children and adults in ways that will affect their lives significantly, now and in the future," said Jeannine Zupo, director of the Top Hat Ball. "Greg Osko fits that description perfectly."
"I am very honored," Osko said. 'I know some former Friends of the Year, and I am humbled to be in their company."
Trust Company of Illinois has donated consistently since its initial gift in 1994, and the company, under Osko's leadership, has always lent support to the Marklund Golf Classic and the Top Hat Ball. In addition, Osko and his wife, Sandy, have supported Marklund financially with noteworthy contributions.
"I'm continually amazed by the people who so joyfully serve the residents of Marklund," said the father or five and grandfather of eight.
Tickets are $325 per person. Table sponsorship opportunities are available. To reserve tickets, call Jeannine Zupo at (630) 624-9874.