Everything Geneva would like to introduce you to our Preferred Relator, Stephanie Doherty.

Having lived in the Fox Valley for over thirty years, Stephanie has certainly seen the area become a favorite place to call home!  Each town in the area has very distinct attributes yet posses many similarities.  The Fox Valley is and will continue to be a “Great place to live and raise a family”!

This is a special place because folks moving into the area eagerly anticipate becoming part of the community while the people moving away often feel saddened.  Stephanie feels very fortunate to have grown up, met her husband Don Doherty and raised her two children here in the Fox Valley!

She realizes you have many options when selecting an agent to represent you in the Real Estate transaction.  Having a full time seven days a week professional staff does make all the difference!  Her philosophy of serving clients with unsurpassed service, communication and genuine care for their needs is exactly what she would expect!  Her accomplishments are listed below!

• #1 in St. Charles office for listings taken and sales for 11 years running
• #1 overall selling agent in St. Charles in 2009!
• #3 agent among all REALTORS in the Fox Valley
• Over 1/2 a $billion$ in transaction volume
• Top 1/2% in Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage nationwide
• Member of Coldwell Banker International Presidents Premier, the most prestigious and highest designation
  

Her aggressive marketing and negotiating strategy allows her listing clientele to receive maximum exposure to the buying market, bringing more possible buyers consequently providing the highest possible price!

As your buyers agent, her comprehensive knowledge of the area, and aggressive negotiating skills provide us the ability to provide “the perfect place to call home” for you and your family!

We are glad to announce Stephanie Doherty and her team as our preferred real estate agent for Everything Geneva! 

Search homes for sale in Geneva as well as other metropolitan cities now!

Stephanie Doherty – ABR
Sales Associate

2690 E Main St
Saint Charles, IL 60174-2443

Office: (630) 377-1771
Direct: (630) 587-4656
Cell: (630) 643-3602

stephanie.doherty@cbexchange.com

By enjoying tropical drinks and great food on a warm summer night, Fox Valley residents can help the infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities who are served by Marklund.

Marklund at Mill Creek is the beneficiary of the July “Commons Crawl,” hosted by the Geneva Commons. “Taste of the Tropics” takes place from 6 – 8 p.m. Monday, July 19, at the shopping center located at 602 Commons Dr., Geneva, IL.

Each month the Commons Crawl changes themes and benefits a different local charity. It takes place on the third Monday of the month from May through September. With tickets, patrons get goody bags as well as food and drink samplings from the Commons’ restaurants – California Pizza Kitchen, Claddagh Irish Pub and Houlihan’s.

Patrons will pick up their tickets, wrist bands and goody bags on the night of the crawl at Houlihan’s and then go on their way to enjoy the crawl.

“This event is a ton of fun,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development for Marklund. “I went to the May Commons Crawl and had a blast. You definitely get a lot for the money.”

Tickets to the event are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. A maximum of 300 tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis, so participants are urged to purchase early.

For tickets, stop by the mall office or call 630-262-0044. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

For more information on Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or go to: http://www.marklund.org

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org.

Bud Porter with Marklund Clients

On Tuesday, May 25, 2010, 230 golfers attended the 28th Annual Marklund Golf Classic at Hilton Chicago-Indian Lakes Resort, 250 W. Schick Road, Bloomingdale. More than $167,000 was raised for Marklund, a not-for-profit network of services providing a full-life experience for infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

The golf event was led by Chairman George Webster, president of RAM Mechanical. Webster’s committee members included Ed Gunther, Kevin Hagen, Bob Korvas, Linda Kowalsky, Liliana Olalde, Jim Porter, Mark Ratay, Ginny Richardson, Vince Robles, Kevin Roche, Victor Rubino, Chuck Sheets, Steven Spurling, Jeanne Suzuki and Tim Tyrrell. In addition, Marklund’s Tracey Beattie was director of the golf outing.

“I support Marklund, because I see the passion, dedication and care that each staff member at Marklund provides the severely disabled kids and adults,” Webster said, “Few people ever accomplish what they do.”

The title sponsor for the 28th Annual Marklund Golf Classic was Porter Pipe & Supply Company of Addison.  Other major sponsors included RAM Mechanical Services, Ahead, LLC, Architectural Resources & Technologies, Inc., Sportsman Liquor, Bob Korvas Agency, Inc., Infotrack Information Services, Inc., The Irving Press, Mutual Fund Store, Pepsi, Hilton Chicago-Indian Lakes Resort and Polsinelli Shughart PC.

Golfers enjoyed lunch, drinks, massages, a Golden Tee video game contest, premium giveaways, a $5,000 RAM Mechanical Putting Contest and meeting 25 celebrity guests before they hit the course at 12:30 p.m. On the course, participants were entertained with contests, betting holes, a Mai Tai machine donated by Sydney Frank, a bourbon station presented by Heaven Hill Distilleries and two opportunities to win a car at holes sponsored by Zimmerman Ford and Joe Cotton Ford.

All sponsor foursomes were joined by a celebrity including former Cubs, Bears, White Sox, Blackhawks, and other sports hall of famers.

“Each athlete supports Marklund’s efforts to bring the highest quality of life possible to individuals with developmental disabilities,” Webster said. “We appreciate their support very much.”

The evening banquet included drinks, dinner, awards, silent auction packages and more time to talk with celebrity athletes. The prestigious Hero Awards were presented to Marklund supporters Larry and Renie Norkiewicz of Arlington Heights and Kate Harris of Inverness. Established in 2003, the Hero Award is given annually to individuals who, for many years, have supported and furthered the Marklund mission with change and enhancements that have gone beyond the status quo in order to improve the lives of the infants, children and adults served. Marklund’s development team nominates candidates, and the final decision rests with the members of the Marklund board of directors.

“We are very proud of Kate, Renie and Larry and have named them officially as our ‘heroes,’” said Joel Rusco, president and CEO of Marklund. “The funds raised from this outing are vital to supporting Marklund’s services. We are indebted to all who participated in the 2010 golf outing and the volunteers and sponsors who donate their time, talent and dollars. We could not do it without everyone’s wonderful support.”

The live auction had packages such as a Napa Valley wine country experience, a world-class driving experience, a Jimmy Kimmel Live experience, a Lake Michigan sailing adventure for a party of six, Cubs/Sox premium tickets, an Ultimate Blackhawks Package, and vacation stays in Clearwater Beach, Mexico, Hawaii, and Hilton Head Island.

“The Marklund Golf Classic was also made possible by the many participants, donors, volunteers, hole sponsors and celebrities,” said Tracy Beattie, director of the outing. “Marklund is so grateful for everyone who helped make this year’s event a success.”

For more information, contact Vicki Krystof, Marklund’s communications manager at 630-593-5482 or visit: http://www.marklundgolfclassic.org

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklundgolfclassic.com

The concerts take place at Chicago’s Northerly Island’s (formerly Miegs Field) concert venue, Charter One Pavilion. Marklund will also be providing transportation to and from the concerts as has been done in the past.

Marklund needs volunteers for the following concerts:

• May 15: Bamboozle Festival
• June 5: Styx/Foreigner
• June 29: 311/Offspring
• July 5: Rush
• July 7: Rush
• July 9: OAR
• July 10: OAR
• July 16: Chicago/Doobie Brothers
• July 18: REO Speedwagon
• August 18: Honda Civic Tour
• August 21: Sector 9
• August 28: TBA

“Volunteers have had great experiences while working and enjoying the music,” said Stevie Armbruster, development coordinator for Marklund. “This is a fun way for neighbors, clubs, friends or businesses to connect while volunteering. Just gather a group and give me a call. Individuals can volunteer, too.”

Each volunteer works in the main concession tent, which is close to the stage, serving food and drinks for the concerts, while the concession company, Aramark, will donate a portion of its sales to Marklund. One hundred percent of funds raised go to Marklund’s programs and services directly benefitting the lives of infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities. Last summer’s concerts raised an impressive $17,000 for Marklund.

The requirements are as follows:

All volunteers must be 18 years or over. No volunteers under 18 will be permitted.

Any person interested in volunteering must go through TIPS training courses TIPS is

education and training in responsible service, sale and consumption of alcohol. The program is designed to prevent intoxication, drunk driving and underage drinking.

Taking place at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, TIPS training sessions (Volunteers attend just one session.) are scheduled for the following dates:

• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 1
• 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 1
• 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 2
• 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, May 3
• 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 5

All volunteers who attend TIPS training must pass a written test to receive a TIPS card. TIPS certification is good for three years. Aramark will pay for the training, and Marklund will provide transportation for volunteers to attend the TIPS session of his or her choice.

Aramark will provide shirt uniforms for every volunteer. At the end of each volunteer shift shirts must be returned.

“It is crucial to our fundraising success to get all of volunteers through the TIPS sessions and get them signed up ASAP,” Armbruster said. “Please pass this information along to friends, family and co-workers who may be interested. We are looking forward to working with Aramark as they seem to be very organized and excited to work with us.”

Marklund volunteers will work together operating cash registers and serving food and beverages. Aramark staff will work side-by-side with volunteers. Breaks and dinner will be provided. Volunteers must wear khaki pants (no jeans), rubber soled closed shoes, socks and a white t-shirts. There will be no heavy lifting or extensive clean-up.

If you are interested in signing up for training, email Stevie Armbruster at sarmbruster@marklund.org or call 630-593-5473.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Marklund’s 2010 Spring Craft Fair will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at the Marklund Hyde Center, 1 South 450 Wyatt Dr. Geneva. All types of crafters will be selling their handmade items as well as unique gifts from food and cosmetic vendors. In addition, there will be a Marklund booth featuring items handcrafted by Marklund’s developmental training clients.

Proceeds of the Spring Craft Fair benefit Marklund, an organization that provides compassionate care for infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

“Our craft fairs are so popular with the public,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development at Marklund, “It’s the perfect time to purchase something meaningful for Mother’s Day, the perfect one-of-a-kind surprise for the graduating student, and even gifts for upcoming summer weddings.”

Also, crafters are donating one item for a raffle to be held during the Spring Craft Fair.

For more information, call Peggy Szarzynski at 630-593-5475 or pszarzynski@marklund.org.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Proceeds of the Spring Craft Fair go to Marklund, an organization that provides compassionate care for infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

“Our craft fairs are so popular with the public,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development at Marklund, “It’s the perfect time to purchase something meaningful for Mother’s Day, the perfect one-of-a-kind surprise for the graduating student, and even gifts for upcoming summer weddings.”

A 6’x8’ space is available for $35. A table and electricity each cost $5 extra. Set-up times are 4 – 6 p.m. Friday, April 30 and from 7 – 9 a.m. the day of the craft fair, May 1. Also, crafters agree to donate one item valued at $5 or more to Marklund for a raffle to be held during the Spring Craft Fair.

Space is limited; crafters and vendors are encouraged to reserve their spots without delay. For more information, call Peggy Szarzynski at 630-593-5475 or pszarzynski@marklund.org or download the application form.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Kochan describes the music of First Star Destiny as Christian Rock and positive mainstream music with some diversity in approach ranging from rock to classical-flamenco with some electronica-dance influence and a bit of reggae. That’s quite a combination of sounds, but according to a growing fan-base, it works.

Kochan has always been musically inclined, but four years ago, while working as a recreational therapist with the very special residents of Marklund, he began writing songs. Marklund is a not-for-profit network of services that helps infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities reach their highest potential and live as full a life as possible.

“As I wrote the songs, I felt the influence of God leading me in the direction of what turned out to be a unique sound,” Kochan said. “The work is in the genre of Christian Rock, as well as songs that could fit into the secular realm of radio, and all with a positive spirit.”

Equally important to Kochan is his valued relationship with Marklund, where “Miracles are always within reach.” He has enjoyed working as a therapist with the special residents of Marklund since 1997, and a true joy for him is to perform his music for his incredible friends at Marklund, where he still works today. Kochan finds it tremendously gratifying to hear the residents – those who are able – sing along with him. Because of his devotion to Marklund, he is donating a percentage of the proceeds of the album to Marklund.

Also known as “wEs LeE ‘K’”, Kochan handled songwriting, lead and harmony vocals, lead guitar, keyboards-synthesizer, bass, and harmonica. In addition, there are other musicians on the album including session musicians on violin and backup vocals. Now performing in concert, both electronically and acoustically, whether with his solid backup group of musicians or in “one-man-band” style, he loves to perform his music.

When Kochan was a teenager, he started playing a Hawaiian lap steel guitar, however, he didn’t play it with a metal slide as it is meant to be played – he played with his fingers.

“Can you say finger callouses!?” he said. “Eventually I got my first $15 acoustic guitar that was actually meant to be fretted with fingers, and the rest is history. My listeners deserve a fun time of music and they don’t have to cover the kids’ ears for the lyrics! Really, it’s an album with meaning and many catchy grooves and hooks and lyrics for thinkers, seekers, believers and those who have a sense of emotion and a sense of what love is or should be. It has catchy beats and rhythms with something more than your average, everyday, just-make-sure-it-rhymes lyrics. Those who have heard this new release note the lyrical content and appreciate it right along with the sonic quality and catchiness therein.

“In summary, while there are other musicians on the album, it is primarily a solo artist album with a band name,” he said. “Whether playing in concert as a ‘one-man-band’ or with backup musicians, acoustically or electronically, my motto is to ‘bring the music to the people.’ And I love to do just that.”

Links for the First Star Destiny debut album, “Something For Everyone”, to iTunes, CD Baby, and Digstation are posted on www.Myspace.com/firststardestiny or www.Shoutlife.com/starwayrockband

For more information, call Wes Kochan at 630-310-1293 or email him at: wkochan@sbcglobal.net

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Chinese American Service League dancers from Chicago's Chinatown

It was quite a colorful sight to see many of Marklund’s guests dressed in “Chinese couture.” More than 500 attendees raised $425,000 for the not-for-profit organization at the Marklund 14^th Annual Top Hat Ball – “Celebrate Chinese New Year,” on Saturday, Feb. 13^th at Navy Pier’s historic Grand Ballroom, Chicago.

Such proceeds will go a long way to 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 included 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 was fine dining with some traditions of the Chinese culture and dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra.

The Donahue Family of Geneva

The Top Hat Ball is well known for its lavish live auction items. This year’s auction, chaired by Stacey Alexander of Plainfield and Sue Wick of Lombard, surpassed all others, raising $120,000. The 12-day Asian Seabourn cruise went for $17,000. Other live auction items and their final bids were: tickets to the Grammy Awards – two packages sold at $8,000 each; golfing Ireland’s best courses – two packages sold at $7,000 each; two tickets at the PGA Masters finals – $13,000; winter vacation for four at Steamboat, Colo.- $12,500;  two tickets to the Oprah show – $5,000; Disney World for six over Fourth of July – $8,500 and many more.

In addition, Marklund’s Fund-in-Need auction raised well over $90,000.

A highlight of the annual Top Hat Ball was the presentation of Marklund’s prestigious “Friend of the Year” award. George and Pam Rion of Bloomingdale received one of Marklund’s highest honors for the couple’s 18 years of consistent support and willingness to serve Marklund’s infants, children and adults in ways that will affect their lives significantly, now and in the future.

“We are so pleased for the Rions,” said Jeannine Zupo, director of the Top Hat Ball. “The Rions started volunteering at Marklund by opening gifts as a family with their then small children on Christmas Eve at the Bloomingdale location, just down the street from their home. Their heart for the Marklund residents grew each year and has made a huge impact on many.”

Congratulations are in order to the Top Hat Ball committee: Michael J. Ahlert, Carol Angelescu, Lynn Armbruster, Diana Book, Mayor Kevin Burns, Carie Carney, Jeff Cook, Chris and Vicki Deane, Karen Golden, Rob and Carol Hassels, Jackie Janega, Brian and Lily Kay, Jason Laub, Robert Levy, Randy Lindenberg, Kate McCracken, Jill Schluntz

For more information, call Jeannine Zupo, Top Hat Ball director, at 630-624-9874 or email to: jzupo@marklund.org

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

This year, many donors chose to purchase gift cards that provide Marklund residents with extra spending money to use on community outings.

“Marklund is thankful for the outpouring of support from this year’s donors,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development for Marklund. “This holiday at Marklund was full of excitement and a lot of love, thanks to our generous donors.”

For 24 years, the Giving Tree program has allowed Marklund residents to receive special holiday gifts from generous donors such as companies, clubs, churches, schools, and individuals.

How it works: Marklund residents submit wish lists with items ranging from winter coats to classical music CDs to gift cards (The residents go on an outing to spend their gift cards.) Giving Tree cards are created for each resident with a brief bio and three gift suggestions. Donors take a card and purchase one or more of the resident’s wish items and return them, festively wrapped, to Marklund.

On Christmas Eve day, more than 100 Marklund volunteers and staff members gathered to help residents open their gifts. It was indeed a very happy holiday.

For more information about the Giving Tree, contact Cathy Nikrandt at cnikrandt@marklund.org or 630-593-5468 or go to: http://www.marklund.org.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org/

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.

Another exquisite auction item is luncheon for eight at Cinderella’s Royal Table with the Royal Family at Walt Disney World, a tour of Cinderella’s Castle, complimentary photographs and autographs with Cinderella and her princess friends. This item includes four airline tickets from Chicago to Orlando and eight nights in a two-bedroom villa that sleeps up to nine, at Kidani Village at Animal Kingdom Lodge overlooking the savannah. It takes place from June 27 through July 5^th over the popular Fourth of July holiday.

Other items are a trip for two to Costa Rica, a ski trip to Steamboat, CO; a trip to the PGA Master’s Tournament; unique Chicago Cubs experiences and many more.

A highlight of the annual Top Hat Ball is the presentation of Marklund’s prestigious “Friend of the Year” award. This year, the honor goes to a couple – George and Pam Rion of Bloomingdale. The Marklund Friend of the Year must demonstrate in his/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. The Rions certainly qualify. They have been involved with Marklund since 1992.

George has served in leadership capacities as the chair of the Marklund Golf Outing and as member of the former Development Council. For many years, Pam served as member of the DuPage County Board, and she was instrumental in working with Marklund leadership to ensure the not-for-profit was meeting the needs of families in DuPage County. By aligning Marklund’s goals with DuPage County goals, Marklund received county funding, both Community Development Block Grants and Human Services Grants.

Pam also was crucial in assisting Marklund with the process of securing the Certificate of Need for the last two 16-bed homes on the Mill Creek Campus. In fact, she was (and remains) an advocate for Marklund throughout DuPage County, raising awareness of Marklund programs and services. She retired from the DuPage County Board in 2008.

“The Rions have Marklund in their blood,” said Jeannine Zupo, director of the Top Hat Ball. “Not only have they been instrumental in helping Marklund grow and succeed, but their son, Chris, has become more involved on a volunteer level over the years, which truly shows the special place Marklund has in the Rion family’s heart. There is no better legacy to leave your children than teaching them to use their God-given talents and gifts to give back to the community. The Rions started volunteering at Marklund by opening gifts as a family with their then small children Chris and Beth on Christmas Eve at the Bloomingdale location, just down the street from their home. Their heart for the Marklund residents grew each year and has made a huge impact on many.”

Top Hat Ball committee members are Michael J. Ahlert, Carol Angelescu, Lynn Armbruster, Diana Book, Mayor Kevin Burns, Carie Carney, Jeff Cook, Chris and Vicki Deane, Karen Golden, Rob and Carol Hassels, Jackie Janega, Brian and Lily Kay, Jason Laub, Robert Levy, Randy Lindenberg, Kate McCracken, Jill Schluntz

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

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org