Eric Weiler, Alison Victoria and Courtney Weiler
A canine guest
Emily Mullen and her dog, Ava
Emily Mullen and her dog, Ava
Lex Cisler and Nina Marchese
Melissa Cocagne and Melissa Canning
Paula Fasseas, Sophia Kamberos, Cory Spence and Alexis Fasseas
The Party
A mix of 400 guests and their four-legged companions gathered at Galleria Marchetti for the eighth annual Animal Magnetism benefit hosted by PAWS Chicago.
The Scene
A reception featuring tasty bites and signature “muttinis” fueled lively banter as many pet owners lined up to have their portraits drawn by caricaturist Darick Maasen and receive a reading from animal communicator Alicia Halloran. Dinner kicked off with an address from Gov. Pat Quinn, who was on hand to receive an award for his commitment to animal welfare.
The Highlights
While furry guests enjoyed their own doggie buffet and “pupcakes,” the event’s emcees, radio personality Christopher “Brotha’ Fred” Frederick and HGTV’s Alison Victoria, led an enthusiastic paddle-raise that, within minutes, garnered more than $20,000. “To see those hands fly up to donate made me choke up,” says Victoria. “We are the voice of those animals in need.” And a strong voice it is: This year’s benefit netted $130,000, a new record for Chicago’s largest no-kill shelter. –Photos by Sparenga Photography
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