Marklund's Top Hat Ball - Celebrate Chinese New Year February 13, 2010

Marklund will host its 14th Annual Top Hat Ball – “Celebrate Chinese New Year,” at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010, at Navy Pier’s historic Grand Ballroom, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Proceeds will benefit Marklund and its compassionate care of infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

Chaired by Mike and Carol Donahue of Geneva, the Top Hat Ball will include authentic Chinese dancers from the Chinese American Service League in Chinatown, musicians from the Chinese Fine Arts Society, and traditional Lion and Dragon dances from Chicago Dragon's Athletic Association. There will be fine dining with some traditions of the Chinese culture, dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra, the presentation of Marklund’s “Friends of the Year” award, and an exceptional live auction. Although a black tie gala, many guests are planning to attend in “Chinese couture.”

The Top Hat Ball is known for its lavish live auction items. This year’s auction, chaired by Stacey Alexander of Plainfield and Sue Wick of Lombard, surpasses all others. Auctioneer David Goodman of Chicago’s Auction Results will offer packages that include a 12-day Asian cruise for two aboard the Seabourn Pride, a yacht that accommodates just 104 couples, and was donated by Seabourn and Viking Travel Agency. Named the #1 Small Ship Cruise Line in the world in the prestigious Condé Nast Readers' Choice Awards 2009 and also named Best Floating Hotels by Gourmet Magazine, Seabourn yachts present a style that is the ultimate in luxury.

Guests will enjoy 2009 pricing, with tickets on sale for $300 per person. Table sponsorship opportunities and discounted packages are available. To reserve tickets or for more information, call Jeannine Zupo, Top Hat Ball director, at 630-624-9874 or email to: jzupo@marklund.org

Official Website: http://www.tophatball.com