By Stephanie Creech Hackett

Museum Center's 'An Evening in Rome'

Museum Center President and CEO Douglas McDonald greets the Most Rev. Daniel E. Pilarczyk. (Philip Groshong photos)

More than 900 guests attended the gala, "An Evening in Rome," the Cincinnati Museum Center's opening of its spectacular exhibition, St. Peter and the Vatican, the Legacy of the Popes. Cincinnati is one of only four U.S. cities selected to host the exhibition, the largest and most significant collection ever sent from the Vatican to North America.

Douglas W. McDonald, president and CEO of the Museum Center, welcomed guests and acknowledged the hard work and support of many in attendance. Guests of honor included Msgr. Roberto Zagnoli and the Rev. Michael Prince, representatives of the Vatican, as well as the Most Rev. Daniel E. Pilarczyk. McDonald said net proceeds from the opening gala are expected to exceed $300,000. L. Thomas and Francie Hiltz chaired the gala committee. The gala evening was presented by Riverpoint Capital Management Investment Advisors. Clear Channel Exhibitions is producing the exhibition. Cinergy Foundation is presenting sponsor.

Nutcracker Luncheon: Cincinnati Ballet

White tights and patent leather shoes abound as Mary Ann Zalla snaps a shot. Lined up (from left) are Mallory Zalla, Caitlyn Gardiner, Christine Gardiner, Elizabeth Zalla and Rachel Zalla.

What would the Cincinnati Ballet's annual holiday presentation of The Nutcracker be without the children's Nutcracker Luncheon?

Chaired by Amy DeBrunner and Robin Schwanekamp, this pint-sized gala drew more than 1,200 guests during its two days.

The pre-performance luncheon included presentations by Grammy-nominated children's recording artist Zak Morgan and a craft by Imaginattic, a fashion show by Oilily and a performance by 45 Venture Dancers of the Otto Budig Dance Academy.

Cincinnati Ballet Artistic Director Victoria Morgan gathered all the children and shared with them the Nucracker story.

When thanked for putting together such a magnificent production, Morgan said, "This is our Christmas. This is what we do, our tradition."

The holiday tradition raised nearly $20,000 for the Cincinnati Ballet.

World's Largest Office Party

WDBZ's Patti B. and Lincoln Ware toast at the World's Largest Office Party.

This was not your typical office party. It was the World's Largest Office Party - the 20th annual event. More than 2,000 young professionals poured into the Hyatt Regency Ballroom, downtown, for the annual bash. No hangin' around the water cooler for this one. Guests enjoyed cocktails served by radio, television and sports celebrities. Music was provided by Patsy's Decline.

Sponsors are hopeful that proceeds will net $20,000 to benefit the American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge, which provides free non-medical lodging for cancer patients receiving treatment while they're away from home, and helps patients and their families find the courage and hope to face and fight cancer.