Mark Hunter has had his share of memorable moments over the past month or sopersonally and professionally.
He recently attended homecoming festivities at his alma mater, Wheeling High School (class of 1971). And Saturday, Oct. 20, in Elk Grove Village, just a few minutes drive from his childhood stomping ground in the northwest suburbs, Hunter's Night Club will formally celebrate its 25th anniversary. There will be an invitation-only party from 9-11 p.m., followed by a celebration for the public starting at 11 p.m.
The festivities will feature noted DJ Laura B, along with a show featuring winners of the Hunters Idol contest, 'and they're absolutely wonderful singers,' Hunter said.
At the event, Hunters will give away 75 special, commemorative gift bags with the event's logo, and the bags will be filled a glass, drink tokens, a pen, key chain, T-shirts, towels and more.
About 600 partygoers are expected, Hunter said, and the night will feature several drink specials, a large buffet and several detailed ice sculptors.
'Never, in my wildest dream, did I think the bar would be open for 25 years,' Hunter said. 'The chances of any bar lasting 25 years is quite a feat. I'm so proud that the bar has done so well, been so successful.'
Hunters' manager is Pete Landorf, who has worked at the club for 24 years, first starting as a waiter.
Hunter and his then-wife Marian were the club's co-owners and co-founders. She died in 1995.
Hunter, who is gay, has been dating Patrick Volkert, 46, for almost two years. 'He is the love of my life,' Hunter said.
'This is really a good time for me, really a magical time for me, the best time in my life,' said Hunter, 54, who noted that, 'my heart always belongs in Chicago, but I'm currently living in Fort Lauderdale.'