Hoffman chamber planning luncheon fashion show
If a function has merrymaking intertwined with a flair of wild colors, a Latin beat and a promise of fun, it must be the inviting and rumored "Brazilian Carnivale" that promoters say is taking shape.
Erase any doubts, because the sounds, colors and flavors of that South American country will overshadow this chilly climate when revelers seek feasting and amusement at this luncheon-fashion show coordinated by the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 7, in the Marriott Northwest at Hoffman Estates' Prairie Stone, 4800 Columbine Blvd.
Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates, Alexian Brothers Hospital Network, Harris Bank Hoffman Estates and the Marriott, the top fundraising event's proceeds are slated to fund three $1,000 scholarships, said chamber President Cheri Sisson, who called the event is an opportunity to promote businesses.
"The luncheon show is a sparkling opportunity to say 'thank you' to your staff or clients," said Sisson. "Believe me, your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness because the food will be fabulous and the fashions will elicit oohs and aahs. Mambo over to 'Carnivale.'"
Co-chairwomen Ginny Roncoli, manager and vice president of Harris Bank Hoffman Estates, and Susan Reedquist, director of development of the Children's Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County, consider it interesting to accomplish show details. For instance, before a full-course luncheon featuring Brazilian favorites, last year's darling, the Champagne raffle, will return. One hundred participants may purchase a glass of the sparkly and with it an opportunity to take home a brilliant necklace donated by Brad Gamss, owner of Rahl Jewelers on Barrington Road in Hoffman Estates. Top gemologist there Tony Carone certifies that the 14-karat yellow gold pendant is pave' set with round, brilliant cut diamonds weighing .30 ctw (carat total weight).
"This beauty is a vintage styled, pear-shaped dangle suspended from a 16-inch, 14-karat yellow gold chain itself holding two diamonds, and it's valued at $915," Reedquist said.
Reedquist and Roncoli chaired the event last year.
Zzazz Productions provides professional models but the chamber's celebrity models Mayor Bill McLeod; Mitch Rivera, vice president of National City Northwest Chicago; and James Taylor, husband of chamber member Lynn Taylor of the Mary Kay Corp. based in Hoffman Estates, will take their turns strutting the runway.
One of the silent auction "wow items," donated by Tiffany Peterson of Volt Services of Schaumburg, is a week's stay at a large Orange Beach, Ala., condo that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and features dolphin views.
To reserve a $50 ticket or purchase a table of 10 for $475, call the chamber office, (847) 781-9100.