David M. Zapata @ Zapwater Communications

MS. GREEN

2008-08-27T09:37:00.004-06:00

Having blogged about green fashion accessories this past Earth Day about our client Tivi, it’s only natural to talk about another earth-friendly client making a difference today.

Lynn McMahan, better know as Lynn S. Green, is a Chicago philanthropist who embodies the qualities of a passionate green goddess. Lynn not only serves as an expert on living in sustainable style, she is also an esteemed businesswoman and developer.
As the owner and president of Trinity Development, Lynn incorporates a 360 ° green program both in and out of her homes. The small yet significant footprints Trinity leaves on our planet truly fascinates me. Trinity uses local resources whenever possible, in turn reducing transportation and fuel costs and helping to support the local economy. It was also interesting to learn that indigenous trees and plants that are typically cut down or destroyed when making room for a building site are actually replanted and used in final landscaping. Trinity also donates unused construction items to charitable groups, like Habitat for Humanity, instead of filling dumpsters with large quantities of reusable items that eventually end up in our landfills.

From lipsticks to light bulbs, Ms. Green has paved the way for making the longevity of our future possible with her eco-ethics. Currently, Trinity is developing green homes in Cordillera and Vail, Colorado.

With Greenivale coming up next month, eco-friendliness is infiltrating our everyday activities. I learned from Lynn and Trinity Development that the three R’s are more powerful than ever (reuse, recycle and reduce...please).

Cassandra Mazur
Intern

THIS IS HOW TO DO A PRODUCT LAUNCH

2008-08-27T07:13:00.003-06:00

Nikon asked commercial photographer Chase Jarvis to test out the new D90 during one of assignments. They then posted behind the scenes footage online. Wow! As an agency that has done a considerable amount of work in the photo market space, this is pretty cool.

David Zapata

THE MANY WAYS ZAPWATER AND ITS CLIENTS GIVE BACK

2008-08-24T19:06:00.003-06:00

The Wikipedia definition of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept whereby organizations consider the interests of society by taking responsibility for the impact of their activities on customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders, communities and other stakeholders, as well as the environment. This obligation is seen to extend beyond the statutory obligation to comply with legislation and sees organizations voluntarily taking further steps to improve the quality of life for employees and their families as well as for the local community and society at large.

In marketing circles, CSR is all the buzz. If you read the last few Blogs on the Zap Blog, you’d see we take CSR very seriously. At Zapwater, we try to include CSR components in almost all our client work. In the past year, we’ve helped our clients give back by holding events that have raised over $40,000.00.

Just last week, one of our newest clients, Chicago hotspot Bon V kicked off the annual Air and Water Show weekend with an event that benefited the USO of Illinois. Our current Pro-Bono client is Gateway Green and we’re proud to be the Public Relations Agency of Record for this year’s Green Tie Ball.

Here is a list of some of the ways Zapwater helped its clients give back in the past year.

Chicago area reality television stars from Big Brother, Survivor, The Apprentice and The Real World participated in RA Sushi’s creative contest, RA Reality, to raise awareness for local non-profit organizations. Each reality television star was transformed into a top chef by creating and naming an original recipe for a sushi roll. Survivor Fiji’s Mookie Lee’s winning RAVU roll was available throughout the month of December 2007 at all three Chicago land RA Sushi locations with 15% of the proceeds donated to Mookie’s own charity, Active Chicago.

At Zapwater, we knew that the celebration to officially welcome the Hotel Sax Chicago needed to be on a scale worthy of the extravagant, $25+ million renovation that had recently taken place. In mid-March, Zapwater and the Hotel Sax Chicago threw a grand unveiling event, taking place on two consecutive days. The 2500 attendees included Chicago VIPs and socialites, the boards of local charities, local politicians, technology, leisure, business and events writers, members of the local television and radio media, Microsoft executives and a slew of other partygoers eager to have an amazing time while enjoying all that the new Hotel Sax Chicago had to offer. The two night event benefited two local charities: Gilda’s Club and Lumity.

On July 3, 2008, Zapwater helped open Chicago’s hottest eatery HUB 51. The opening was dubbed “The 4th of July Party on The Third benefiting Starlight Starbright, and it raised over $20,000 for the charity. This was the most successful outside event in the charity’s history. The restaurant opened to a packed house with a line wrapping around the block as over 500 Chicagoans came to experience it.

We don’t just preach CSR to clients. We include it in almost everything we do including our vacation policy. Zapwater employees get an extra week vacation if they use it volunteering!

These are just a few examples of the many charities that Zapwater’s clients have helped raise money and awareness for. We’re looking forward to continuing this tradition and helping more of our clients give back.

David Zapata

CAN A PENNY DO ANYTHING? SURE IT CAN...

2008-08-22T08:41:00.003-06:00

A penny can’t buy you much of anything these days. But did you know in Pakistan and Afghanistan it could buy a student a pencil? Yes, sure it can.

Following my last blog about the wonderful book Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin, I have been inspired to help Mr. Mortenson’s cause by setting up a jar here at the Zapwater office to help benefit his non-profit, Pennies for Peace.

The program uses money collected to build schools in the two previously mentioned countries and provide education in areas forgotten by the rest of the world. In researching more about the program, I came to learn that $600 dollars can pay a teachers salary for a year. I have set a goal to raise this amount at the Zapwater office in six months.

So next time you stop by Zapwater's headquarters, remember to bring a penny or ten; drop it in the jar and help change a child’s life forever.

John Delaney
Office & Special Projects Manager

GREEN GALA

2008-08-19T11:07:00.010-06:00

Celebrating its seventeenth year, Green Tie Ball is now less than a month away!

The Zapwater team has been working behind-the-scenes since April on handling media relations for all the gala pre-events and is now getting the press excited to attend and cover the #1 charity event in the Windy City. The celebrated gala will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at Chicago Scenic Studios from 8:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Located at 1315 N. North Branch St. (one block north of Division and North Branch), the venue is a 100,000 square foot enclosed warehouse space and benefits Chicago Gateway Green. This legendary fundraiser has set the standard for black-tie soirees attracting more than 3,000 attendees, featuring chefs from over 75 of Chicago’s top restaurants, premium bars, charitable gaming and entertainment. This year’s theme Greenivale—where “green” meets Carnivale—is an explosion of sights and sounds.

Tickets for Greenivale are still available. Individual gala tickets start at $150 and include access to the entertainment, premium bars, a charitable gaming tent, and tastings from dozens of Chicago’s top culinary kings. For the high-rollers, tickets for a reserved table seating for ten are priced at $5,000 and include cocktail service in the VIP area, $2,500 in charitable gaming chips in the Horseshoe Casino lounge, complimentary select spa services from Mario Tricoci Salon and Spa and much, much more. All Green Tie Ball XVII guests are also encouraged to purchase raffle tickets for $25 to enter to win onsite a Toyota Prius with a two-year lease, compliments of Chicago Northside Toyota, a member of the Bob Loquercio Auto Group.

I know where I'll be on Saturday, September 13th, experiencing THE green gala. Don't miss out, tickets for Greenivale are available through Tickets.com or at GreenTieBall.org.

Kiran Advani
Vice President, Lifestyle

TAKING THE MISSION TO NEW HEIGHTS

2008-08-17T16:28:00.005-06:00

What a weekend! Zapwater Communications was proud to be a small part of the 50th Annual Chicago & Air and Water Show. Since Zapwater opened its doors in 2004, Zapwater has been pro-bono agency of record for the USO of Illinois. 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 was a big part of the Air & Water Show. On Friday, comedian Bill Murray jumped with The Army Golden Knights on behalf of the USO of Illinois. The Army Golden Knights are a valiant representation of all the brave men and women who serve our nation! Murray landed on North Avenue Beach and introduced Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, who performed a free concert. Sinise is a Goodwill Ambassador for the USO.

Later that evening, Chicago hot-spot (and Zapwater client) Bon V hosted a USO Afterparty and raised money for the organization.

On Saturday, WLS Radio broadcasted live from the Palmolive Building home of Mike and Kristina McGrath, both dedicated supporters of the USO. Chicago’s Talk Station teamed up with the USO of Illinois as host Roe Conn hosted CONN AIR; a live broadcast celebrating 50 years of aerial antics over Chicago. The special WLS presentation promoted the mission of the USO while providing Air Show play-by-play with special interviews with aerial experts, veterans, military personal. The highlight of the afternoon was meeting the crew of the USS Chicago, the Los Angeles-class attack submarine.

Even being such a small part of this amazing weekend, Zapwater is proud to be the agency chosen to help get the word out about all of the amazing things the USO does for our men and women in uniform.

David Zapata

TASTE TEST CAMPAIGN OF PRESIDENTIAL PROPORTIONS

2008-08-13T16:44:00.005-06:00

I'm not much of a political aficionado but I have to admit that this election has been more exciting than any I can remember. No matter where you get your information on the election or how involved you are or who you think should be the next President, the most important thing this year is voting. If ever there was a time to register and make a difference for our country and our generation it is now. Everything from fashion magazines to the Paris Hilton's of the world have in some way contributed to this election season and restaurants are no exception.

At the end of this month, RA Sushi will go "maki-to-maki" in the taste test of this election season. During the span of both Democratic and Republican conventions, RA will have customers taste test sushi rolls that embody both Presidential hopefuls and vote on their favorite. Political pundits and sushi supporters will have a great time tasting the "Blue" BARACK ATTACK and the "Red" MCCAIN TERRAIN and voting on their favorite candidate. And the best part is that $3 from every sale of the Campaign Platter ($10), will benefit Rock the Vote, an organization that engages and builds the political power of young people in order to achieve progressive change in our country.

The winning candidate’s roll will be inaugurated onto the menu at all three Illinois RA Sushi restaurants starting on Friday, Sept. 12 through Friday, Oct. 3. Both Lombard and Glenview locations will also host voter registration events with Rock the Vote on Thursday, Oct. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday, Oct. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m., respectively.
SO, if you haven't done it yet, now is your chance to register for possibly the most important election of our generation.

Annie Neyman
Group Director, Hospitality

HOMETOWN OLYMPICS

2008-08-10T12:10:00.005-06:00

After watching Friday’s Olympic Opening Ceremonies and the “Redeem Team” thump China in basketball, I got really excited about the 2016 Olympics possibly being held in Chicago.

Chicago-based Zapwater Communications is a proud supporter of the 2016 Chicago Olympics.

There are many ways you can show your support and join the team.

There are volunteer opportunities on the Chicago 2016 homepage.

or

you can show your support by joining one of the many Facebook groups supporting bringing the Olympics to the windy city.

Let’s bring the Olympics to Chicago.

David Zapata

YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU ARE GOING TO MEET

2008-08-07T09:34:00.003-06:00

“You never know who you are going to meet”, that is my life motto and I swear by it. I truly believe I would not have had the opportunity to intern at Zapwater Communications without living life this way. I could say that my Zapwater journey started a short two months ago, but that would not be the complete truth. In my mind it all began one night out in Wicker Park last May, when I was introduced through a friend of a friend, to a young, enthusiastic, fashionable, power PR woman by the name of Kiran Advani. We got the chance to chat about PR and she gave me her business card. The next morning I could not wait to start learning all I could about Zapwater Communications. I followed them as they promoted RA Sushi, saw K.Amato designs in US Weekly and Lucky and watched the unveiling of the newly renovated Hotel Sax Chicago.

Eventually a year later my school schedule lightened up allowing me to take a summer off from classes to focus my time, energy, knowledge and enthusiasm on an internship. I knew, since that night in Wicker Park, that I wanted to intern at Zapwater. Hopefully they would realize they wanted me too.

So here I am, a year and three months later, calling myself a Zapwater Intern! Coming in with such high hopes and expectations could have been disastrous, but Zapwater sure has delivered. From day one I have been given the responsibility and trusted to work alongside the publicists in all areas of PR from writing press releases, pitching stories, creating media lists to offering manpower at the door for high profile events.

As the summer term comes to an end I am excited to accept the offer to return as an intern for yet another, what I am sure will be, eventful session. I am already gearing up to start promoting, with Publicist Holly Ramsey, our new client PJ Loughran and his company Kerosene Creative Services, a multi-facetted advertising and marketing agency. Loughran seems to have the same idea about embracing the unexpected and those chance encounters so I look forward to where life takes me, Zapwater and all our clients next!

Ashley Plaetzer
Intern

A CHANCE TO MAKE A CHANGE

2008-08-05T20:02:00.002-06:00

Reading has always been an integral part of my life. It truly has shaped me as a person. For me, reading provides an adventure and the ability to get insight into opportunities not readily available to one’s self. I read books on varying topics to keep myself informed on important and not so important issues, or sometimes simply to escape the rigors of everyday living. My favorite reads have ranged from John Irving’s A Prayer for Owen Meany (which made me laugh out loud but also think) to David Halberstam’s epic book about the Korean War, The Coldest Winter: America and the Korean War (a book that provided me with a glimpse of a bleak time in the history of this country.)

Most books I have read leave an impact on me, but one of the most recent has left quite an everlasting impression on me and this book is Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. It is a story of will and desire, a story of passion and commitment, of one man’s goal to make something better. The book is the story of mountain climber Greg Mortenson. Mortenson was so taken by the hospitality he was shown in a small Pakistani village after a failed attempt at climbing K2, he decides to build the village a school to provide the village’s children a better chance of life.

This blog is not a review. I will not reveal anything more about the book. But go out and find a copy and read it, you will be rewarded. The book has given me the courage to say that I can help and here at Zapwater, we are rewarded with such a chance, after one year of service we can dedicate a week volunteering. I now intend to take advantage of this great Zapwater perk. I may not be heading to Pakistan any time soon but like Mortenson, I would like to do something, so now my adventure begins.

John Delaney
Office Manager /Special Projects Manager

I DREAM OF CARROT CAKE

2008-08-04T18:27:00.002-06:00

In preparation for my October wedding, I have been on a mission to lose weight. I will generally try any method of weight loss and since I passed the “30” mark nothing has worked. From Celebrity Fit Club’s Fat Smash Diet to Seattle Sutton, I’ve tried it all. I might be the only person in America who actually gained weight on Weight Watchers.

I have had some success on my latest diet craze. Whether it’s the secret potion I’m ingesting or the mere 500 calorie diet of apples, strawberries and shrimp, who knows. What I do know is that I am at the end of my rope. I am tired, grumpy and hungry. This morning I was so physically exhausted that I did not have the strength to lift my blow dryer. Needless to say, I am down eight pounds and well on my way to being so thin people will be worried about me…exactly the look I am going for on my special day.The most difficult part of the diet has been that my co-workers have been frequenting HUB 51 and ordering the carrot cake without me. I have forgotten what most food tastes like at this point, but I wake up almost every night in the midst of a dream about biting into a piece of that carrot cake. It is by far the best dessert I have ever had. I don’t know what’s in there, but I do believe the extraordinary taste comes from the frosting. If you haven’t had it, I don’t know whether to recommend it or tell you to stay far far away from it. All I can do is give warning that once you’ve tasted it, you will not be able to stop until your little dessert plate is clean. I know mine will be on August 21st, my first cheat day…T minus 17 days.

Mayra Camara
CFO

INTERN INITIATION

2008-08-01T14:41:00.002-06:00

Almost two years ago, I took the elevator up to the third floor of an unfamiliar building to begin my first day as an intern at Zapwater Communications. Two years later, I’ve graduated to the role of Publicist! When our former intern coordinator relocated, I was asked to take over that role too. At the beginning of every term I interview a wide variety of intern candidates and choose those who I think will best satisfy our office needs. Though I would like to invite every applicant with experience to join us for a term, I also need to consider who will be able to handle what is….the Zapwater Communications office!

We’re not your average bunch of employees over here in Suite 313. In what is typically an extremely fast-paced environment, with clients that range from political action committees to upscale nightclubs, there is always a unique mix of event planning and brainstorming throughout each day. Our interns are all up to the challenge of switching their mindsets from education to hospitality to crisis communications – whatever the case may be!

From Chicago’s Columbia College and Northwestern University to Washington, D.C., our interns have very diverse backgrounds! Each contributes something unique to not only the experiences of other interns but to our experiences as publicists. Like all of our staff members, interns fill an extremely important role and are an invaluable resource. From media lists to event assistance, they learn the ropes of all areas of public relations. Many of our interns have even joined us as full-time employees. As we learn about our interns, they also learn a lot about us! Seriously…

With desks arranged in the center of the office, interns hear everything! From a weekly client conference call to a private conversation with a significant other, our interns pick up bits and pieces of everything that happens with everyone. Sometimes I wonder if we should ever let them go because they know all the SECRETS! But I trust them. By the end of their intern terms, we all become a little family. As the summer term comes to an end, I’m sad to say goodbye!

Two of our multiple-term interns, the “come-back kids,” if you will, Emma and Cassandra, are thankfully staying on board! We’ll also be re-joined by Ashley, a student at Columbia in Chicago. Unfortunately, when mid-August rolls around, it will be time to say goodbye and good luck to Erin, an Indiana University student with a passion for Martha Stewart and a priceless sense of humor, Kate, who hails from the University of Iowa and has a love of fashion and editing a school magazine, and Dana, a student at my alma mater, the University of Illinois, who was the last to join us but certainly made a lasting impression!

I wish all of our Summer 2008 interns good luck and hope their time at Zapwater Communications has benefited them as much as it has benefited us!

Susie Schreiber
Publicist

EPIC NIGHT

2008-07-31T10:32:00.003-06:00

It was an Epic Night at Epic Burger! On Tuesday July 29th, the Zapwater crew put their event planning hats on and attended the official opening of eco-friendly burger joint, Epic Burger, located in the South Loop.The folks at Epic Burger called us in a crunch – they wanted to put together an event which would showcase their brand new flagship store, but did not have the time or resources to pull it of in two weeks! Have no fear, Zapwater is here!

We at Zapwater put our heads together, pooled our efforts (and our interns) and put together a spectacular event. From the gift bags filled with wonderful environmentally sound products donated from Katherine Anne Confections, Lululemon, Pivot Boutique, Chicago Honey Co-op, and Soulistic Studio and Spa and Epic Burger, to the excited crowd filled with Chicago movers and shakers, the night was a success!

But the main attraction of the night was of course THE FOOD! Epic Burger offers a new take on the classic burger joint. It offers great burgers that you can actually feel good about eating! Epic Burger is an eco-friendly establishment. From the all-natural ingredients to the environmentally sustainable packaging materials, every aspect of its production is GREEN! At the big event, guests enjoyed a sampling of the signature burgers and were the lucky first group to experience the debut of the BLT Burger! The burgers were passed, the fries were mowed, and the shakes were flowing.Thanks to hard work from the Zapwater crew and the Epic Burger staff, guests left with full bellies and definite plans to return to this new South Loop hot spot!

Allison P. Evans
Director of Business Development

IN SEARCH OF A BETTER BURGER

2008-07-24T12:32:00.002-06:00

Unlike most of my colleagues, I can’t really say I am much of a foodie. As a recent college graduate, my diet consists of the same several, pitiful staples: wheat bread, tomatoes, hummus and popcorn. Usually, these are consumed while watching the Food Network as I pretend that my paltry sandwich is whatever delicious comestible is being prepared on the tube. While many of my peers are turning to fast food to satiate their dietary desires, I would prefer to use my imagination. Lately however, my imagination can only go so far. With the smell of summer BBQ wafting through my neighborhood and only re-runs of Paula Deen on TV, I have been craving something tasty and new but still affordable and natural. Luckily David Friedman, founder of the new South Loop eatery Epic Burger, once had a similar dilemma!

Inspired by a road trip that left him longing for a quick yet fresh bite to eat, Friedman set out to create a burger joint that could be delicious, fast, affordable and above all, natural. Epic Burger’s staples are a bit different from my own, consisting of all fresh, natural ingredients including hormone and antibiotic free beef, Wisconsin made cheese and locally grown produce. Add freshly baked buns and cut to order French fries to this mix and you can start to see how Epic Burger got its name. The menu is uncluttered, consisting of only four burger and sandwich choices, their trans-fat free fries and a variety of real fruit smoothies. My suggestion? The All Natural Epic Burger that comes with all the traditional burger fixings and “epic sauce”. If you’re feeling like enjoying an especially epic meal, try it out with their one-year aged cheddar and a few slabs of nitrate free bacon.Although the official grand opening of Epic Burger is Tuesday July 29th, they’re now open to meet your meat needs. I am confident that even if your diet is a bit more thrilling than mine, Epic Burger will live up to its name!

Emma Richards
Intern

72 HOURS, ZAPWATER STYLE

2008-07-22T09:08:00.004-06:00

It’s not every week that you can start with an open house in the suburbs, followed by a Carnivale, topped off with a 2.0 grand opening event (complete with burlesque dancers) and then end the festivities by Dressing Up! Get ready, here we go!

Wednesday, July 16

3:00 pm
Our journey to Des Plaines to visit Feldco, Chicago’s own home renewal specialists, began in the late afternoon and was an hour and half reminder of why I live in the city, it only took that long to go 26 miles! In that time, we managed to wave at fellow drivers, call Allison’s grandma, watch planes land freakishly close at O’Hare and then some.

5:00 pm
Our task for the night was to host and staff a private reception for media and VIP’s, giving them a “behind the windows, siding and doors” look at the all-new Feldco showroom and headquarters.

8:30 pm
The night was a success, as drinks were poured (with one minor bartender finger injury) and RA Sushi was devoured, the crowd was truly impressed by the new Des Plaines facility.

Thursday, July 17

5:00 pm
Prepping for events entails a lot of work, including stuffing gift bags for guests. In preparation for a Friday afternoon/evening event at le Dress, I kidnapped our intern Ashley for a night of stuffing, staffing and dancing.

7:00 pm
After meticulously prepping 100 bags, we crossed over from Wicker Park to Bucktown for the Carnivale celebration at Akira. Proceeds from the door benefited Chicago Gateway Green, the non-profit organization dedicated to beautifying and greening Chicago, and served as the second of three pre-events for this years’ annual Green Tie Ball.

9:00 pm
A quick change and cab ride later, we found ourselves at Crimson Lounge, ready to participate in the Grand Opening 2.0 celebration. Scantily-clad burlesque dancers stole the stage and almost bared all (I was impressed!), and the Crimson Kitties made their debut dancing performance. Champagne, appetizers and DJ Kiss filled the night and I even had my own dance-off with one of my favorite DJ’s, Matt Roan!Friday, July 18

10:30 am
As the day begins with a totally crazy cabbie, what other kind is there really, I was ready to put the week to bed, but not before I “le Dress”ed it up at le Dress’s media event and official grand opening. The city’s newest dress-only boutique treated media and guests to champagne, wine, amazing truffles, cheeses and cupcakes (all from our great friend Rehanna at Chocolate Grape), toasting to the boutique’s success and walls of beautiful dresses. I myself felt a bit like Katherine Heigel, I tried on at least 27 dresses throughout the day!

7:30 pm
Equipped with two bottles of wine, I grabbed a cab and headed home, where I immediately toasted with my fiancé to a whirlwind 72 hours – Zapwater style!

Holly Ramsey
Publicist

CHASALLA "STARR"

2008-07-15T17:14:00.006-06:00

Having celebrated his 68th birthday in the Windy City last week, The Beatles' Ringo Starr and his blonde bombshell girlfriend Barbara Bach, were spotted shopping along the trendy Oak Street fashion district last Thursday afternoon.Making a pit stop at our client Chasalla (106 E. Oak Street), the friendly drummer picked up a STAR embellished belt buckle and a black D&G t-shirt with a white peace sign, meant for “a friend” he said.

Ringo’s famous style fits the aesthetic of Chasalla’s Rock n' Roll vibe, especially with designers like John Richmond that harkens a feel with the rocker pant. Ringo even mentioned that he loves Replay jeans, a Chasalla staple.Starr is currently touring with his new band, All Star Band and performed at Northerly Island on Sunday. Hopefully he flashed his star power with his new Chasalla belt buckle.

Cassandra Mazur
Intern

THE GOOD LIFE

2008-07-10T07:21:00.002-06:00

The West Loop was jumping back in late June on the 27th. That Friday night the cast and crew of the John Dillinger bio "Public Enemies" hit Randolph Street hot spot Bon V (pronounced just like the French saying Bon Vie, meaning the good life) for the film's official wrap party.

Stars started arriving into the crowded club around 11:30pm. Actors Giovanni Ribisi (best known for his stint on the television show "My Two Dads," according to my co-worker Holly) and Stephen Dorff were first on the scene (in matching flannel shirts to boot), then came "Public Enemies" director Michael Mann. An hour later, Oscar winner and natural beauty Marion Cotillard ("La Vie en Rose") sashayed in looking casual yet cute wearing a floral tee and jeans. Even though he wasn't in the movie, Chicago homeboy and "Entourage" star Jeremy Piven came out to support his colleagues.
So where was Johnny Depp the star of "Public Enemies" during the wrap party? Filming wrapped late that evening and he was still having some wine in the private dining room of Gibsons Steakhouse.

Oh well, there was enough star power at the two-floor 7,500 square-foot ultra lounge. I'm just getting ready for more star-studded nights and good times at my new favorite nightlife venue, Bon V!

Kiran Advani
Vice President, Lifestyle

I'M IN LOVE WITH A NACHO!

2008-07-09T16:36:00.006-06:00

If anyone knows me they know that I love two things: avocados and crab.

So when HUB 51 debuted their menu with Peekytoe Crab Nachos, I knew I was in for taste bud heaven. Upon my first official visit to the new River North restaurant, my table of four ordered the decadent dish. We were gleefully glad to see the heaping pile of Peekytoe Crab, Fresh Crisp Tortilla Chips, Homemade Guacamole and White Cheddar & Oaxaca cheese sitting in front of us in no time. Each one of us dove right in and I don’t know about anyone else, but my mouth was elated. I would have never thought to pair nachos and crab together, but I swear those chefs at HUB 51 are genius. Usually when I tell my friends about the nachos, they get a weird look on their face but trust me these nachos are incredible!

I have officially found my new favorite nachos of all time at my new favorite client HUB 51.

Annie Neyman
Senior Publicist

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

2008-07-04T17:09:00.002-06:00

Happy 4th. Just in case you are wondering, we're taking a long weekend. Zapwater will be closed July 4th and 7th. Enjoy your holiday weekend.

STRIKE WHILE THE IRON IS HOT

2008-07-01T12:58:00.005-06:00

I have never gotten the chance to wear a hard hat in my life. However, I have always been fascinated with architecture and development and was incredibly excited when I got the opportunity recently to tour the Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee before its completion. Currently scheduled to open in September, the Iron Horse Hotel is located right in downtown Milwaukee and is the industry's first modern luxury boutique hotel geared toward business and leisure travelers along with the growing segment of motorcycle enthusiasts.

Besides the excitement of getting to wear my first hard hat and get a sneak peak at a hotel that is sure to change both the hotel and nightlife scenes in Milwaukee, the experience was a unique blend of seeing different aspects of the hotel coming together while also imagining the finished product. The entire building houses an industrial chic aesthetic that results in luxurious yet understated rooms as well as a lobby that is destined to be a destination in itself. Between the restaurant Smyth and adjoining lounge, the Iron Horse Hotel is primed to become the "it" nightlife spot for visiting musicians and city residents alike.With the upcoming Harley Davidson 105th Anniversary celebration in September as well as the opening of the hotel itself, I can't wait to see what develops next at the Iron Horse Hotel!

Rebecca Palkovics
Assistant Publicist

NO DEVIL IN PRADA HERE!

2008-06-26T15:59:00.003-06:00

I half expected my first day as a Zapwater intern to be traumatic à la Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada. I envisioned myself spilling a tray of hot Starbucks coffee on my white ruffled button-down, frantically scribbling notes as a Miranda Priestly-esque character barked out orders, or unsuccessfully navigating the streets of Chicago in an attempt to pick up Dave’s dry cleaning. My nervousness stemmed from my inexperience in PR (as of three weeks ago my only exposure to the subject came from a single Wall Street Journal article), but I was banking on my writing skills and sheer enthusiasm to keep me afloat in this new and exciting world.

Much to my delight, neither Dave nor Susie resembled Miranda Priestly in manner or appearance, and I managed to get through my first day without so much as a broken nail. The environment was anything but catty or competitive— everyone was extremely helpful in teaching me the language and processes used in PR. When I was given my first assignment, to create vacation packages for the Abbey Resort, I was thrilled! The tasks I was being given fit perfectly with my creative personality and utilized my strong writing skills.

In my past few weeks at Zapwater I’ve done everything from perusing blogs targeting working moms (in hopes of finding one that might feature SuperMom, a.k.a. Kim Kleeman) to choosing photos of ladies in elaborate hats at the Chicago Service Club’s spring luncheon to send to the press. One of my favorite tasks was calculating the total monetary value of the media placements that Zapwater secures for its clients. It really makes me appreciate all of the hard work that goes into each account—and how great everyone here is at what they do!

Just as Andy entered the offices of Runway oblivious to the world of Louboutin and Lagerfeld, I waltzed into Zapwater clueless to the intricacies of pitching and press releases. With loads of guidance from my friendly coworkers, a lot of hard work, and unfailing enthusiasm, I’d like to think that I’ve made myself an asset to the Zapwater team. Now if only my journey could come to an end with a trip to Paris!

Erin Girard
Intern

CONFESSIONS OF A SHOE-O-HOLIC

2008-06-25T10:02:00.004-06:00

I was six when Prince Charming placed that glass slipper on Cinderella’s tiny foot and the downward spiral of my shoe addiction began. From my first pair of bright white Keds to my latest purchase of Rene Caovilla bejeweled sandals, there is a certain kind of happiness and fulfillment that I can only get from shoes.

Does my obsession come from the belief that my fairy ending will happen if I’m wearing the perfect shoe? Or, is it that regardless of the inevitable fat day or bad hair day, my shoes always look good? I don’t know the answer, but I do know that I am not alone as evidenced by the camaraderie felt among women everywhere for Carrie Bradshaw and her passion for Manolo Blahnik.

What I have come to learn is that there is no cure. I had to admit that I had a problem and acknowledge my weakness and vulnerability. I had to stop sleeping in my new shoes and properly store them in their dust bag and box. It is a daily struggle to limit myself to only those shoes that are truly special. This struggle is what drives my continuous search for that exclusive boutique. For those women that are plagued by the same disease, don’t miss Grace on Damen in Bucktown. The unique styles are sure to make any recovering shoe-o-holic fall off the wagon.Trendsetters will not want to miss a spectacular sale at Grace (located at 1917 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60647, 773.384.7223) featuring the majority of spring and summer merchandise marked down to 50% off starting this Friday, June 27th through Thursday, July 24th. The boutique will be stocked with incredible deals on exclusive footwear collections from designers like Luciano Padovan (whose signature peep toe pumps were most recently seen in “Sex and the City: The Movie”), Georgina Goodman (London-based line boasts eccentric fashionistas like Kirsten Dunst and Thandie Newton), and Jean-Michel Cazabat (style setting publications like W Magazine and Marie Claire have praised the 25-year-old fashion veteran’s collections).

Guess where this shoe-o-holic will be this Friday?

Mayra Camara
CFO

CAMELOT: THE PR CAMPAIGN

2008-06-23T12:40:00.002-06:00

Not since John F. and Jackie Kennedy has a political duo come on the scene with such star power it seemed almost unstoppable. Barack and Michelle Obama have literally cast a spell on the American public. From the most liberal democrat to the staunchest conservative, the entire population is studying the Obamas to find out just what it is that makes them so captivating.

Their effortless class, calming vernacular and endless style are likely products of Barack and Michelle Obama – the private couple – but the publicity focus on these attractive qualities is no doubt the result of a brilliant public relations campaign. From loosely rolled sleeves on him to her sleeveless dresses, the Obamas have become an entity with the strength of a well-calculated brand; we can count on them to deliver every time in the areas of speech, dress and approach. These qualities make them approachable but respected in a way that the majority of politicians fail to achieve.

From US Weekly covers to the fist pump heard round the world, the Obama PR camp has doubtlessly been carefully calculating and deliberately emphasizing every public move that makes the Obamas appear relatable. What many in the general public often neglect is that a public relations effort is behind a large portion of what you hear and see every day. The Obama PR machine has succeeded in grabbing the attention of voters of all ages from all walks of life. Only time will tell if this campaign will lead to the emergence of the Obamas–the First Family–and the introduction of the modern day Camelot.

Susan Scheiber
Publicist

TOUCHDOWN

2008-06-20T16:17:00.006-06:00

For a girl who grew up in Chambana (Champaign-Urbana), the home of the Fighting Illini and then migrated to Badger Country to attend the University of Wisconsin, saying that football is a part of my life would be an understatement. As if I wasn't a big enough football fanatic, I married a college quarterback!

So with all that said, you can imagine how excited I was when, as I was leaving the Chasalla "10 Year Anniversary Party," I heard a rumor that the one and only Donavan McNabb was hanging out at Crimson Lounge! You must understand that Donavan, or Donnie as I like to call him, is my absolute favorite quarterback in the NFL. I have been a faithful fan for many years cheering him on in Philly. That does not sit well when you are constantly surrounded by many devout Chicago Bears fans.When I arrived at Crimson Lounge I spotted him immediately. He was having a great time laughing and partying with a group of friends. A hole had opened in the offensive line, and I saw my opportunity to go in for the quarterback sack! Donavan was such a great sport as I proceeded to give this soon-to-be free agent all the reasons why he should play for the Bears, we will see how good my recruiting skills are!

I always love seeing Samantha Ronson put on a good show at Crimson Lounge, and Lindsay Lohan was quite an exciting surprise, but I will have to say Donavan McNabb really takes the cake for me! Big Ups to you, Donnie, for partying at the coolest Lounge in the Windy City, see you next time!

Allison Pickard Evans
Director of Business Development

DADDY DEAREST

2008-06-12T10:53:00.003-06:00

As a complete daddy’s girl (his picture is to the left), I may be slightly biased in saying this, but my dad is a total rock star! From scraped knees and the Girl Scouts “Father Daughter Dance” to driving lessons and broken hearts, my dad is my go-to guy when it comes to just about everything…everything except gift suggestions! Each year when Fathers Day rolls around I am at a total loss as to what to get the man who “doesn’t want anything”. Lucky for me, Zapwater is filled with helpful clients and staff that take the guess work out of Fathers Day gift giving!

Hotel Sax Chicago, located in the chic Marina City, knows the importance of unleashing your inner rock star from time to time. Their Celebrity Rider packages, inspired by rider requests from celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and The Red Hot Chili Peppers, is a great way to show your dad he rocks. My favorite, the Rat Pack inspired package, is aimed at helping dad experience Frank Sinatra’s kind of town first hand. Featuring a suite with a bar cart and personal bartender, a private steak dinner at Harry Caray’s restaurant for up to nine friends, personal butler service, 24-hour transportation and a boat for dad and his friends to cruise the Chicago river on, this gift will have dad singing your praises.

If your dad is at all like mine, and insists you get him nothing this year, why not grant his wish and make a donation to a charitable cause in his name? Contributing to a local cause, such as a hospital or community group that has touched your dad’s life is a great way to show him you care. The Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center in my family’s hometown of Waterbury, CT is a place that is especially close to my dad’s (and my) heart. The Leever Center is a state of the art cancer treatment facility that wouldn’t have been possible without the generous donations from our community members. And without the Leever Center, many people from Connecticut, including myself, may not have a father to celebrate with this year.

So this Sunday make sure your dad knows that you are his #1 fan. Even if you’re like me and believe that everyday is Fathers Day (trust me, I have the phone bills to prove it), take the time to celebrate everything your dad does. Happy Fathers Day Dad…and sorry again about those gray hairs!

Emma Richards
Intern