Client: Chicago Gateway Green

Event: Chicago Gateway Green 3rd Annual Texas Hold’em Charity Poker Tournament “Green Tie: Game On!”, Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Event Summary:

The Chicago Gateway Green 3rd Annual Texas Hold’Em Charity Poker Tournament: “Green Tie: Game On!” took place in June 2008 at Galleria Marchetti. The 2008 event hosted over 120 poker players, all hoping for a chance to win a $10,000 seat in the 2009 World Series of Poker Final in Las Vegas. The evening included elegant full bar service and hors d’oeuvres in the venue’s gallery area, while VIP patrons had access to an outdoor pavilion featuring Horseshoe Casino-sponsored outdoor lounge furniture, a Knob Creek Whiskey and Christian Brother’s Brandy bar, and a cigar bar—featuring a hand-roll cigar maker. Included in those trying their luck for a great cause were prominent media figures, including film critic Richard Roeper and Mookie Lee of Survivor: Fiji, amongst several other celebrity guests. For the first time in its three-year history, the event had a fashion component, with a ‘Las Vegas’ inspired runway show from Chicago-based fashion boutique Akira. As players were eliminated, guests were able to enjoy the evening mingling with the ‘Las Vegas showgirls’ and watching the tournament as the competing pool narrowed and the excitement grew. The client was pleased with the exciting evening and successfully exceeding their attendance and fundraising goals.

Services:

The “Green Tie: Game On!” event was both produced and promoted by McGowan Durpetti & Associates. The team coordinated all vendor contracting, advance logistics, sponsorship procurement, program planning, and on-site event management. MD&A’s strategic use of media contacts and collateral development and distribution allowed them to provide the client with measurable results with increased attendance and revenue from the preceding year’s event.