Hollywood Icon Raquel Welch, Legendary Broadcaster Merri Dee & Producer Jamie Ceaser to be Honored at Women In Film Chicago's 2010 Focus Awards Hosted by WGN-TV's Micah Materre
CHICAGO ( September 13, 2010 ) -- Women in Film Chicago, will host its annual Focus Achievement Awards on the evening of Thursday, October 14th, held at the Chicago Mart Plaza. This signature fundraiser provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor Raquel Welch ( Hollywood icon ) , Merri Dee ( Chicago legend ) and Jamie Ceaser ( WTTW hallmark ) with Mistress of Ceremonies Michah Materre ( WGN-TV news ) , while building support and recognition within the greater Chicago media arts community. The evening gala will include cocktails, a delicious dinner overlooking Chicago's skyline, a raffle and a silent auction with generously donated items and services from Chicago businesses and those who support Women in Film. Most importantly, the distinguished careers of Local Honorees Jamie Ceaser and Merri Dee and National Honoree Raquel Welch will be recognized as the Focus Achievement Awards honor women who have made a significant contribution and impact in the industries of film, television, advertising and new media. This evening benefits the work of Women In Film Chicago by supporting the careers of women in the content creation industries
Hollywood icon and epitome of beauty, actress Raquel Welch was born in Chicago, studied theatre, became a mother, modeled and made her debut to television as a weather person before she began a career as an award winning television and film star. Perhaps it's her Midwest roots but at age 70, Raquel is proud to have surpassed the stereotypes of being a sex symbol. Raquel is a successful entrepreneur, creating a line of designer wigs and lending her fabulousness as a pitch person for Foster Grant sunglasses and various beauty products. Raquel is also a published author who has written books on health and fitness and is currently traveling the country promoting her autobiography, Raquel: Beyond the Cleavage.
Merri Dee started out in radio and quickly moved into television where she, as one of a handful of African-Americans in Chicago programming and development earned accolades for her work on The Merri Dee Show. Merri has interviewed some of the most influential and important entertainers and personalities of the day. Having survived a brutal incident, she triumphed after a year of rehabilitation in which she overcame partial blindness and paralysis. This miracle led to her continued devotion as a leading and prolific community activist.
Jamie Ceaser began her 30 year career at WTTW with a single interview that made quite a lasting first impression: "If I get this job, I will stay here forever." And that's just what she did. With "Mary Tyler Moore" as her inspiration she has produced and developed numerous television programs for which she has achieved nine Emmy's, two Public broadcasting awards, a NATPE award and the Peter Lisagor award.
This year's Mistress of Ceremonies will be WGN-TV News Anchor, Micah Materre. Micah is the producer of "Chicago's Very Own" segment for News at Nine as well as covering entertainment news and special assignments. Micah has also received an Emmy honored by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. As a dedicated community activist, she is the honorary chair of several civic organizations.
Women in Film Chicago ( WIFC ) is a nonprofit membership organization for all creative content professionals. With a focus on driving the advancement of women in this industry, WIF Chicago provides a dynamic network to facilitate the exchange of ideas and opportunities and builds a solid educational platform to accelerate the professional development of our members.
The Chicago chapter of this dynamic and diverse organization is dedicated to promoting the professional and educational advancement of our members, men and women alike, while contributing to the overall success of Chicago as a provider of high-caliber commercial, television, independent and major film production.
This event will sell out!
Women in Film Chicago's 2010 Focus Awards Details:
Thursday, October 14, 2010
6:30 PM
Chicago Mart Plaza
Wolf Point Ballroom
350 West Mart Center Drive
Chicago, IL 60654
Purchase tickets at: http://wifchicago.org/site/focus-awards/2010-focus-awards/
Parking is $5
For more info on Women in Film Chicago please visit: wifchicago.org