DAY 52 AUGUST 27 PALMOLIVE ULTRA

OH WHAT A NIGHT
Our own "Hurricane" Irene invited us to dinner to meet  the McGraths-Chicagoans who also are part time Boca folks.  Chicagoans in Boca?  I thought everybody in Boca Raton  was from NY or Jersey?   The McGraths have the most amazing condo in the PALMOLIVE BUILDING (previously known as the PLAYBOY BUILDING). The building was  designed by Holabird and Root, is 37 stories tall and was completed in 1929.  It was designated a Chicago Landmark in 2000 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.  In 2004 the process began to turn this office building into residences.  This vintage building exudes all the elegance associated with the finery's of the roaring 20's- yet with the recent renovations all the modern conveniences in today's world.  If anybody is looking for Vince Vaughn he's up on the top floor.

Our hosts, Kristina and Mike McGrath installed dramatic terraces in the art deco set back in front and in back of their unit with art, plants and even a putting green.  While breathtaking and chic- their "home" is as warm and friendly as they are.  Kristina is quite a woman of influence in Chi Town-a strong woman and a strong character who has worked hard for all she has accomplished.  Her involvement in the USO caught Boca's attention.  I think I'll nick name her H.H.- humble heart.  And yep,  equally as beautiful on the inside!  This gracious, hospitable and generous couple are absolutely sensational and a lot of fun to be with.  We appreciate all that you both do in your many charitable works.  We also enjoyed meeting the Flanagan's and Irene's beau Arny.   We sipped and chatted and enjoyed the 2 pooches-also Chicago friendly.  Woof Woof.

 Then out to sup at PANECALDO.  MMM.  Thank you for a delightful evening.  See you in Boca for some of Bubba's BBQ!

H.H. aka Kristina and Jan

The guys solve world problems

USO

Kristina'a charity of choice- the USO.  She and Mike are quite involved in the Illinois Chapter of the USO.  And you know Bubs and I are fond supporters of anything and all for our military and their families.  We shared the Fisher House and Zachary Fisher story with the gang.  We are all familiar with Bob Hope and all of his USO Touring (started in 1942 and hosted 60 tours!).  As a matter of fact Bob Hope and Zachary Fisher are the only persons ever awarded by the U.S. Congress- "Honorary Veterans Status".  Bob in 1996 and Zachary in 1999.  Keep up that good work for our troops HH!  You are an inspiration to so many.

The mission of the USO is to enhance the quality of life of the U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and involved or supporting civilian communities.

The USO of Illinois is a civilian 501(c)(3) registered non-profit that is not government funded but is supported solely by the generosity of the American people.

The USO of Illinois touches the lives of over 300,000 Active Duty, Guard and Reserve military and military families throughout Illinois and the Midwest region over 300 programs and services offered year-round that enhance the quality of their lives, lift morale and provide unique recreational, educational and cultural opportunities. The USO of Illinois is powered over 300 volunteers giving almost 20,000 hours of service annually.

About The USO (United Service Organizations): The USO is chartered by Congress as a non-profit organization. The USO is not funded by, nor a part of the United States Government. It is however, endorsed by the President of the United States and the Department of Defense. Each President has been the Honorary Chairman of the USO since its inception. The USO of Illinois Locations: Navy Pier USO:   312-923-7070USO of Illinois military visitor center is located at Navy Pier in the South Arcade next to the 2West door. Stop by and see our newest home away from home. Includes free internet access, food and drinks. Hours: Various Please Call. Great Lakes USO:   847-688-5591 or 5593 Located at the Naval Station, Great Lakes, 530 B. Farragut Ave., 2nd floor, building 27. Located just over the bridge on the left. Free recreation center is open 7 days a week Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 3-9pm; Sat.-Sun.,11-9pm. USO O’Hare Center “Cyber Canteen”, Terminal 3 (773) 686-8426 Located in Terminal 3, L Concourse. Open 7 Days a Week --- 6:00 AM - 10:30 PM O’Hare International Airport USO: 773-686-7396 Conveniently located in Terminal 2, above the Northwest Ticket Counter, on the Mezzanine level, the O'Hare USO is designed to assist traveling military personnel and their families. Amenities include Internet access, quiet rooms, children's room, TV lounge area, free reading materials, flight information, emergency assistance and travel and lodging information and referral. Hours: 24 hours 7 days a week Midway International Airport USO: 773-582-5852  Located in Concourse C, After passing through the metal detectors turn right and enter Concoursc C. The USO will be located near the Gate area. One of our smallest USO's, but with so much to offer! A team of dedicated volunteers will welcome and assist you with Internet access, travel information, free food and beverage and a friendly face! Amenities include TV, movies, free reading materials, calling cards, free Internet Access, bathroom, copier and fax. Hours: Mon - Sun 9am - 9pm Open hours of Operations is based on volunteer availability