On Sunday, June 3rd, a beautiful summer evening, an elite crowd gathered at the Hilton Hotel in Lisle, Illinois to celebrate and support the 22nd year of Athletes Against Drugs.  The 13th annual Celebrity Gala and charity dinner was produced by ProActive: Strategic Communications and Events. Scenic, lighting, and audio support was provided by Production Plus.

The stage at the Hilton.

“It’s a fine evening,” said Stedman Graham, the founder of Athletes Against Drugs, “we’ve got a great turnout and everything looks wonderful.” Graham, a prominent Chicago businessman and philanthropist, founded Athletes Against Drugs to “ … educate youth to make healthy life decisions.” Leveraging the star power of national and local athletes, AAD works in the Chicagoland area to raise the profile and appeal of a drug-free lifestyle, particularly for young athletes.

This elegant freeform affair was filled with laughter and fine performances. Production Plus technicians behind the boards at Front Of House kept pace with co-emcees Ron Masak and Art Norman as they worked the room with enthusiasm. Masak, a veteran actor of stage and television, regaled the crowd with tales of attending Wrigley Field and Comiskey Park while growing up in Chicago. NBC anchorman Norman played the straight man to Masek’s wisecracking old–school Chicago style. On site to keep the show moving at a brisk pace was Carl Purvee, Technical Director.  Sean Munster, Market Director for ProActive, said “Carl Purvee and his team at Production Plus really saved the day for us and our client.”

Stedman Graham poses with his guests.	Ron Masek in full effect.

All the athletes on hand, including the young stars feted by Athletes Against Drugs, spoke about their successes garnered while living a clean, healthy life. Pitching great Bob Feller, Cub Hall-of-Famer Billy Williams, and Chicago Bulls power forward Dickie Simpkins all took a turn in the spotlight. When asked, Dickie Simpkins noted that the event  was “… better than excellent.  I’m having a great time.” 

But it was not just athletes that turned out for Graham’s 13th Celebrity Gala. Country singing great Charlie Pride made the scene.  Actor Richard Kind, best known for his roles on the small screen’s “Mad About You” and “Spin City,” roamed the auction tables browsing the memorabilia. “It was a terrific night, the lighting was great and the band sounded fantastic,” said Kind. Singer Natalie Cole looked elegant at her prime table down front. And Motown great Smokey Robinson held court with his entourage and positively beamed when asked about how Production Plus was doing. “Oh, it’s wonderful,” said Smokey, smiling a million dollar smile. “The event is blessed, and I’m very happy to be here.”

Blessed indeed.  The Celebrity Gala raised over $200000, according to Alicia Straughter, Managing Director  of Athletes Against Drugs. “We are so thankful for (ProActive and Production Plus),” said Staughter. “(They) really helped us take this event to a new level–somewhere we wanted to go this year.” This sentiment was echoed by Michael McCauley, Vice President of Creative Development for ProActive. “ We couldn’t have pulled this event off without our team at Production Plus,” said McCauley. “Thank you all.”

If you would like to learn more about Athletes Against Drugs, please visit their website at www.joinaad.com.