WGN Morning News‘ Pat Tomasulo
The Drake Hotel’s magnificent Gold Coast Room
A whimsical ice sculpture
February 6, 2014 | Parties
The Party
A record number of gala-goers and their four-legged companions gathered at the luxurious Drake Hotel for the 12th annual Fur Ball, PAWS Chicago’s signature fundraising gala.
The Scene
As they ascended the main staircase, black-tie guests were greeted by a troop of PAWS volunteers holding adorable rescued puppies. While their owners mingled over cocktails in the silk-covered French Room, lucky pups were treated to “pawdicures,” massages and a lavish doggie buffet (served in crystal goblets, no less!). After their own elegant dinner in the hotel’s two ballrooms, guests participated in a spirited live auction where covetable lots, including a portrait sitting with celebrity photographer Victor Skrebneski and a trip to this year’s Super Bowl, generated five-figure bids.
The Highlights
Longtime PAWS supporter (and Smashing Pumpkins frontman) Billy Corgan was on hand to kick off the bidding for A Night of Folly, an exclusive evening of live entertainment and a dinner for 12 prepared by chef Curtis Duffy of the Michelin Star-awarded restaurant Grace, which went for an impressive $60,000. –Photos by Sparenga Photography
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