PGA TOUR
A Round-Up of Morton’s Fundraising Efforts for PGA TOUR Charities
01 year ago
Earlier this year, Morton’s became the Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour. An important component of this sponsorship is our support of various PGA TOUR charities. I’m proud to announce that, so far this year, we’ve raised almost $315,000 for several organizations! Here’s a recap of our efforts.
- In June 2011, our ‘Celebrity Server’ event at Morton’s in King of Prussia featuring Jim Furyk raised $91,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
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- Jim Furyk tees up for his “Celebrity Server” event at Morton’s
In September 2011, Charley Hoffman hosted a ‘Celebrity Server’ dinner at Morton’s in Las Vegas, and special guests included future MLB Hall of Famer Greg Maddux and comedian/TV host George Lopez. The event raised $60,000 for the Charley Hoffman Foundation.
- We contributed $51,250 through our PGA TOUR tournament participation in the AT&T National, Chevron World Challenge and The Player’s Championship.
- $8,240 has been raised for Birdies for the Brave through sales of our in-restaurant Double Cross Mortini and through a portion of ticket sales from our “Prime Event series at Morton’s” series.
- Last month, we raised $38,000 as a result of our “PGA TOUR Golf Experience” at TPC Sawgrass, which included a private meet-and-greet with Jim Furyk and a custom golf ball fitting from Bridgestone…among other exciting experiential components. We’ve also contributed $10,171 through various other TPC course events.
- Most recently, we hosted a ‘Celebrity Server’ event at Morton’s in Palm Beach, when hosts Jack & Barbara Nicklaus helped raised $55,000 for the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation. Barbara Nicklaus said of the evening, “The food and wines were fabulous; the atmosphere was perfect; and everyone who attended seemed so happy to be there! It was a great group! And, to top it off, we raised significant funds to help children in our area.” In addition to meeting this tireless, philanthropic couple, guests also had the opportunity to sample Jack Nicklaus wines and participate in a prestigious auction.
- We will conclude our 2011 fundraising efforts with a final ‘Celebrity Server’ event at Morton’s in Beverly Hills, this one featuring Hunter Mahan and Celebrity Friends. (Click here for more information or to make a reservation.)
Supporting our communities has always been an important part of Morton’s mission, so it gives me great pride that our year-long efforts have helped raise money for so many worthwhile organizations. Stay tuned for more information about exclusive PGA TOUR events and fundraisers available to our guests.
Roger Drake
Sr. V.P. of Marketing and Communications
Morton’s The Steakhouse
Morton’s is proud to be the “Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR”. Please visit our website to learn more about this prime pairing of organizations!
Morton’s ♥’s Celebrities!
11 year ago
Actors Dennis Haysbert and Penelope Ann Miller with Morton's Michael Savitt
Great food is always in abundance and delicious memories are delivered hot and fresh whenever you dine at Morton’s The Steakhouse. Plus you never know who you’ll run into – PGA TOUR players, comedians, local politicians or sports legends. At Morton’s, the options are endless.
Celeb-rating at Morton’s
Charles Tillman
On the evening of Monday , October 17th, Morton’s The Steakhouse in Northbrook was alive with energy and excitement as the Chicago Bears prepared for their 2nd Celebrity Servers Dinner featuring the unbelievably outgoing Cornerback, Charles Tillman. Chicago Bears players and their families, Morton’s VIPs, media, and steak lovers alike gathered to enjoy an evening of fine dining and fun in support of Charles Tillman’s Cornerstone Foundation, an organization that provides opportunities and resources to over one million Chicagoland children and families in need.
Charles Tillman and his Celebrity Servers. Go Bears!
Tillman and teammates, including Anthony Adams, Lance Briggs, Matt Forte, Frank Omiyale, Patrick Manelly, Matt Toeaina, Caleb Hanie, Johnny Knox, Zackary Bowman, Corey Graham, Tim Jennings, D.J. Moore, Brandon Meriweather and Craig Steltz, traded in their signature orange and blue for Morton’s aprons as they passed wine and hors d’oeuvres and signed footballs for guests during the cocktail hour.
The dinner began with a few words from host Zach Zaidman, Sideline Reporter for the Chicago Bears Radio Network, Tom Lange, the General Manager of Morton’s in Northbrook, and Tillman, who introduced fellow teammates and explained his organization, the Charles Tillman Cornerstone Foundation. He shared the story of his young three-year old daughter Tiana, who at three months old was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart disease that slows the pumping of blood to the body. Now a vibrant toddler, Tiana survived with a heart transplant, and Tillman continues to tell her story to educate and inspire.
Lance Briggs!
Smiling players juggled plates of salad and juicy prime steak to serve hungry guests, some even going as far as bussing the tables themselves! A silent auction setup included signed jerseys and memorabilia, trips, and other luxury items, while the rousing live auction included Tillman gear, signed photographs, a massive bottle of wine, and a one-of-a-kind golf trip, among others. Tillman captivated the crowd with his stories and jokes throughout the evening, especially during the auction as he ran across the restaurant from bidder to bidder, hugging them, taking photos, and encouraging everyone to give more.
Matt Forte!
Tillman’s enthusiasm and incredible dedication to his cause paid off, as the dinner raised nearly $150,000 in total. Since 2005, Tillman’s charitable efforts have impacted the lives of over one million Chicago-area children.
“My teammates really supported me and I think everyone had a lot of fun, I know I did”, said Tillman “We raised more than we ever had which means we can help more children in the Chicago-area, and that is what it is about.”
The Celebrity Servers Dinner with Charles Tillman was an incredible evening for a cause we can all stand behind – we hope you’ll join us next time!
Reported by Lindsay Rafayko, Empower Public Relations
Power Lunching with a Legend
The Legend: Steve Garvey
Morton’s The Steakhouse in Woodland Hills hosted a special “Lunch with a Legend” event with Los Angeles Dodgers’ legend Steve Garvey on Wednesday, October 26. The event was hosted by ESPN hosts Max Kellerman and Marcellus Wiley. Steve was in a great mood and shared some fun stories about his impressive career with the audience during his hour long interview. He also shared a special message to the Dodger’s fans in the audience, which was to “have patience and continue to have hope.”
Steve ended his interview by saying that he is always hopeful and always optimistic. Guests attending this special event enjoyed a three-course signature Morton’s lunch. This event is a part of Morton’s ongoing Lunch With A Legend series where they allow guests to interact with sports legends in an intimate setting.
Reported by Maryam Brown, Murphy O’Brien Public Relations
Are you ready for more celebrities? Throughout October, Morton’s welcomed…
Atlanta – Buckhead
New York Knicks Amar’e Stoudemire
Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Phaedra Parks
Actor Don Cheadle
Atlanta – Downtown
Atlanta Falcons Michael Turner
Bethesda
Buffalo Bills Hall of Famer Jim Kelly
Burbank
Actress Melissa McCarthy
Actors/Comedians Zach Galifianakas and Andy Richter
Actress Jenette McCurdy
Charlotte
Carolina Panthers Jeremy Shockey, R.J. Stanford, and Head Coach Ron Rivera
NASCAR’s Junior Johnson
Fox News Tobin Smith
Charlotte Bobcats Gerald Henderson
Davidson College’s Head Men’s Basketball Coach Bob McKillop
Chicago (State St.)
Chicago Blackhawks Marian Hossa and Michael Frolik
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Bengals
Cleveland
Comedian/Actor D.L. Hughley
NFL Agent Drew Rosenhaus
Former Cleveland Browns player Michael Dean Perry
Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Moon
Former NFL player Bernie Kosar
Dallas
NBA Free Agent and current Chinese Basketball Association player Kenyon Martin
Fort Lauderdale
Florida Panthers Coaches and Players
Actor Dennis Haysbert and Actress Penelope Ann Miller
Hackensack
New Jersey Devils Ilya Kovalchuk
New York Jets Plaxico Burress
Hartford
New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick
Houston (Downtown)
UFC Owners Dana White and Frank Fertitta along with other UFC members including Chuck Liddell, Keith Jardine, and Brendan Schaub
Indianapolis
Actor/Comedian Dan Aykroyd
Louisville
Comedians Lavell Crawford and Spike Davis (pictured left)
Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands John de Jongh
Miami Beach
Florida Gov. Rick Scott
Nashville
Rock Legend/Grammy Winner Robert Plant
PGA TOUR Golfer Kenny Perry
New Orleans
New Orleans Saints Robert Meachem, Sedrick Ellis, and Malcom Jenkins
Actor Arnold Vosloo
NBC Sports Executive Dick Ebersol and Reporter Michele Tafoya
Auction Hunters’ Clinton “Ton” Jones
Actor/Hollywood Military Consultant Harry Humphries
Phoenix
Judas Priest’s Glen Tipton and Ian Hill
Members of the Pittsburgh Steelers
Portland
Professional Snowboarder Danny Kass
Reston
NRA Executive VP Wayne LaPierre
Washington Redskins Dough Worthington
MLB Hall of Famer Frank Robinson
Richmond
Director/Producer Steven Spielberg and his wife Actress Kate Capshaw
Producer Kathleen Kennedy
Actress Sally Field
Scottsdale
PGA TOUR Golfer Chez Reavie (pictured below)
Shanghai
NBA Free Agent and Chinese Basketball Association player Wilson Chandler
Troy
Detroit Tigers Victor Martinez
Detroit Lions Rob Sims
Washington D.C. (Connecticut Ave.)
Speaker of the House John Boehner
Washington D.C. (Georgetown)
CNN Anchor John King
FOODARAZZI: 60 SECONDS WITH JACK NICKLAUS
11 year ago
Barbara and Jack Nicklaus
Strike up a conversation on the history of golf, and sooner or later the name Jack Nicklaus will weave its way into the discussion. Synonymous with the gallant game, Nicklaus has wowed fans and fellow golfers alike with his athletic prowess and is considered “The Most Powerful Person in Golf” with 118 worldwide victories and 18 professional major-championship titles. When he’s not designing championship golf courses or captaining the Ryder Cup, Nicklaus is a guiding light for numerous charities including the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation which provides support for pediatric heath care services. We caught up with the “Golden Bear” who ruminates on baseball, bucket lists and bone-fishing in the South Pacific.
OCCUPATION: Golf legend.
FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: I would actually say wherever I’m going, because wherever I go, I try to enjoy the opportunity, the experience, and make the best of it. I certainly have special places I have enjoyed visiting, such as Argentina, South Africa, New Zealand, Iceland, and many others. I enjoy places where I can combine work and pleasure.
POWER SUIT: I prefer a pair of shorts, a golf shirt and sneakers.
WHEN I’M NOT WORKING, I’M…: Spending most of my time with family. I enjoy spending time with my wife Barbara and we especially like to spend time at our grandkids’ activities. I also enjoy fishing and tennis.
ONE THING I’VE BEEN DYING TO TRY: I feel as if I have tried everything I have ever wanted to try. The most recent on my bucket list was to see the gorillas. So we took some family and friends to Rwanda for a “Mountain Gorilla Trek.” One thing I have wanted to do is bone-fish in the South Pacific.
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT IN GOLF: That’s hard to answer because all my victories, especially my major championship wins, have been memorable for unique and special reasons. But if I had to pick one, it would be the 1986 Masters—the last of my 18 professional majors. It came when I was 46 years old; I was almost six years removed from my last major; and it was at a point in my career when nobody expected me to win. And in many ways, that included me. For most of my career at Augusta National, most people expected me to win, whether it was the media, the fans, other players…or myself. And I don’t think anybody did in ’86. It was very special, probably the most special win that I’ve ever had. And having my son Jack on the bag is something I’ll never forget. Also, for whatever reason, that was the only Masters since my first one in 1959, where my mother and my sister decided to attend. I have no idea why, but they were there. So to have my son on the bag, and close family just outside the ropes, served to underline the moment for me.
FAVORITE DRINK/COCKTAIL: I am actually not much of a drinker, and prefer water with almost every meal. But if I am going to have a drink, I prefer, of course, Jack Nicklaus Wine.
I STAY HOME TO WATCH: Football or one of my 22 grandkids.
FAVORITE GADGETS: Not a gadget guy but I carry an iPhone for outgoing calls only.
FAVORITE PLACE TO CHILL OUT: Home.
PRIZED POSSESSION: My family.
ADJECTIVE TO DESCRIBE MY MOOD: Even keel.
WHOM I MOST ADMIRE: My wife Barbara. She has not only been my wife of 51 years, but she has been my best friend, my sounding board, and at many times, my conscience. She has been the guiding light of my life and our family. I know I am a better person and better parent because of her.
PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: Family.
PRE-GAME RITUALS: I always made sure to have three pennies in my pocket when I played. One was to mark my ball; a second was in case I lost the first; and the third was in case my playing partner needed one. I also preferred to play a golf ball with the No. 5 on it. I just played it for years because no one else played it, and so they made a 5 just for me. Plus, that was a score I didn’t want to have.
IF I WASN’T A GOLFER, I’D BE: If it was in sports, it would be baseball. I was a switch-hitting catcher growing up. If you are asking about a career outside of sports, I have no idea. I can’t imagine life without sports.
FAVORITE CUT OF STEAK: Ribeye.
FAVORITE SPORT, OTHER THAN GOLF: Fishing, especially fly-fishing. I also enjoy playing tennis.
FINISH THIS SENTENCE: The best part of my job is…: Each day I feel like I have the ability to make someone’s life better—whether it be mine, my family’s, a child’s, or a client. I’m in a position that allows me to do that, and that’s really nice. At the age of 71, I am still able to remain involved in a game that I have always loved and loved to compete in. Although I can’t compete as I once did on the course, I am very involved in the game of golf, whether it as a course designer, a spokesperson or ambassador for the sport as I travel the world, and hopefully a voice for how we can help protect and grow the game for future generations.
Join Jack Nicklaus and his wife, Barbara on Tuesday, October 25 for a memorable evening of Morton’s signature cuisine paired with exquisite Jack Nicklaus Wines…all in the name of a good cause at Morton’s The Steakhouse in West Palm Beach, FL. Listen to the recent interview with Morton’s Roger Drake and Patty McDonald of Nicklaus Children’s Healthcare Foundation who appeared on ESPN760′s Golf Exchange show to chat about our upcoming event with Jack and Barbara Nicklaus!
Morton’s ♥’s Celebrities!
121 year ago
PGA TOUR golfer Ricky Barnes
As the Fall temps cool down, the A+ list celebrity sightings at Morton’s The Steakhouse are heating up! Morton’s is also “The Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour” and our 77 steakhouses have welcomed the world’s greatest golf professionals including Charley Hoffman, Sergio Garcia, Vijay Singh, Matt Kuchar, Chris Riley, Bill Lunde, John Mallinger, Dean Wilson, Billy Horschel, Andres Gonzales, Ricky Barnes, D.J. Trahan, Chez Reavie and Troy Matteson…just to name a few!
From Emmy-winning actresses (Kathryn Joosten and Keshia Knight Pulliam) and hunky actors (Dermot Mulroney and Edward Burns), to prime-time comedians (George Lopez and The Wayans brothers) and “Real Housewives” (New Jersey’s Teresa Giudice and Jacqueline Laurita) – you never know who you’ll see – or dine next to - at Morton’s The Steakhouse!
Throughout September, Morton’s welcomed the following celebrities…
Anaheim
Anaheim Angels Hideki Matsui
Atlanta – Buckhead
Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam
Atlanta Braves Martin Prado
Atlanta – Downtown
Actor Christopher Lloyd
Actor Edward James Olmos
Philadelphia Eagles LeSean McCoy
Atlanta Falcons Michael Turner
Burbank
Singer Nick Lachey and MTV’s Vanessa Minnillo
Connecticut Ave.
Chef Jose Andres
Former NBA player and radio broadcaster Cedric Maxwell
Charlotte
Green Bay Packers T.J. Lang
Carolina Panthers Jonathan Stewart and Greg Hardy
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Bengals
Cleveland
Actor/Director/Producer Edward Burns
Members of the Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians Chris Perez
Actors Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez
Denver Tech
Colorado Rockies Matt Lindstrom
Former NHL player Joe Sakic
Fort Lauderdale
Miami Dolphins Mike Pouncey
Georgetown
Washington Capitals Marcus Johansson, Mattias Sjogren, and Nicklas Backstrom
Hackensack
Real Housewives of New Jersey’s Teresa Giudice and Jacqueline Laurita
New Jersey Devils Ilya Kovalchuk
Houston – Downtown
Food Network personality Paula Deen
Las Vegas
Actor/Comedian George Lopez
Naperville
NASCAR legend Richard Petty
New Orleans
Actor Zac Efron
Actress Kathryn Joosten
New Orleans Saints Marques Colston, Mark Ingram, Darren Sproles, and Pierre Thomas
New Orleans Saints
Film Producer Randall Emmett
Actor Kevin Alejandro
Rock band Kyuss Lives!
Jazz musician Jeremy Davenport
New York
Food Network judge Geoffrey Zakarian
NFL Hall of Famer Harry Carson
Singer Wayne Newton
Phoenix
Carolina Panthers
San Diego Padres Nick Hundley
Actor Ron Pearlman
Los Angeles Dodgers commentator Vin Scully
Pittsburgh Pirates
Actors/Comedians Shawn and Marlon Wayans
Portland
Film producer Mike Richardson
Reston
Washington Redskins
Seattle
Texas Rangers
Toronto
Actor Dermot Mulroney
PGA TOUR Golfers
Sergio Garcia (Naperville)
Vijay Singh (Atlanta Downtown)
Matt Kuchar (Atlanta Downtown)
A Memorable Day and Night Out with NFL icon Dexter Manley, PGA TOUR’s Charley Hoffman and Houston Texans’ Owen Daniels!
01 year ago
Power Lunching with a Legend: Dexter Manley
Vince Marshall, Hilda Merano, and Dexter Manley
At Morton’s we call the series “Lunch with a Legend,” but Monday’s event in downtown DC was a pep rally of the finest sort. The rivalry between the Washington Redskins and the Dallas Cowboys started on October 9, 1960 and has since become the greatest rivalry in the sport – maybe even in professional sports altogether.
The excitement for this week’s game was palpable as more than 150 Redskins fans, former players, families and media flooded Morton’s dining room for a live broadcast of ESPN980’s “The Sports Fix,” with hosts Kevin Sheehan and Thom Loverro. The sold out crowd donned jerseys from over the years, a majority sporting #72, the number worn by the day’s honoree, former Defensive End Dexter Manley .
Raucous applause erupted at mention of Manley’s legendary 66 sacks from 1982-1986 and his two Super Bowl rings. Former teammate Offensive Lineman George Starke arrived a few minutes late, but not without notice. Both men circled the room at commercial breaks taking photos with guests, signing autographs, and strategizing with fans how the Redskins defense could attack the injured Tony Romo.
In the end, the Cowboys prevailed in the final minutes of the game bringing the team’s record to 61-38-2 against the Redskins. The history won’t matter though. Like the classic American steakhouse, this legendary American tradition is here to stay.
Read all about it! Dexter Manley Lunch with a Legend media coverage included Washington Examiner.
Reported by Anthony Hesselius, Linda Roth Associates, Inc.
Morton’s The Steakhouse Scores a Hole-in-One With PGA TOUR Pro Charley Hoffman
It's Charley Hoffman!
The young guns of the golf world took over Morton’s The Steakhouse Las Vegas as UNLV Alumnus Charley Hoffman and 10 of his friends dropped their 7-irons to serve more than 160 guests. The guest servers who kept every wine glass filled and delivered hot entrees to the guests were Chris Riley, Bill Lunde, John Mallinger, Dean Wilson, Billy Horschel, Andres Gonzales, Ricky Barnes, D.J. Trahan, Chez Reavie and Troy Matteson.
The evening benefited the Charley Hoffman Foundation, which donated $18,000 each to five Las Vegas children’s charities – Goodie Two Shoes, Blessings in a Backpack, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Zelzah Shriners Transportation Fund. All-in-all, more than $90,000 was raised over the course of the day!
The Celebrity Server Event was the conclusion of a golf-filled day as Charley Hoffman hosted his annual Pro-Am at TPC Summerlin. Pro-Am participants, golf enthusiasts and Morton’s regulars filled the dining room with a high-energy atmosphere. Comedian George Lopez and baseball great Greg Maddux came to Morton’s as well and each won a live auction item! Maddux even donated an autographed baseball glove and baseball to the evening’s silent auction.
Morton’s first-ever Celebrity Server Event in Las Vegas was a tremendous success. A great deal of money was raised for charity, everyone in attendance enjoyed themselves and, most importantly, no plates were dropped by the guest servers!
Local media coverage included Las Vegas Sun, KVVU-TV and Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Reported by Stephen Miller, Preferred Public Relations
OH, WHAT A NIGHT! 2nd Annual Owen Daniels Celebrity Server Event Scores Big
Owen Daniels with his Celebrity Servers and Team Morton's!
Cameras, lights, football stars and fans packed Morton’s the Steakhouse Houston Galleria the evening of September 26 for the 2nd Annual Owen Daniels Celebrity Server Dinner. The event sold out ten days prior and the 185 guests were ready to party and party they did. Beginning at 7 pm, Bar 12.21 was packed with guests shopping the silent action items, sampling the bar bites and ready for the action to start.
Houston Texans Tight End Owen Daniels called in the big hitters from the team to help with the fun and activities as Andre Johnson, Arian Foster, James Casey, Chris Myers, J.J. Watt, Shaun Cody, DeMeco Ryans, David Anderson, Steve Slaton, Garrett Graham and Brian Cushing demonstrated their waiter skills throughout the evening. Autographs were the number one request but players were busy refilling water glasses, serving wine, offering dressing for salads and being great sports.
The guests enjoyed a four course Morton’s dinner, silent auction, live auction including two trips to Cabo and opened their hearts and their wallets to help The Owen Daniels Catch a Dream Foundation. Highlights of the evening included the Texans players getting their waiter instructions from the Morton’s team and the live auction with Arian Foster, David Anderson and Shaun Cody demonstrating their auctioneer skills to the joy of the crowd. The big auction items were a Texans autographed 3 liter Monte Bello Red Blend bottle of wine being sold for $5,600 and the two trips to Cabo being sold for $15,000 each, all of which will benefit the Owen Daniels Catch a Dream Foundation.
Special news on the Morton’s Celebrity Server Dinners from Roger Drake, Morton’s Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications; “With two celebrity server events last night – one in Houston with Owen Daniels, and one in Las Vegas with Charley Hoffman and his PGA TOUR friends, Morton’s expects to exceed the $2 million dollar mark in proceeds raised over the past two years. Morton’s is proud to partner with stellar athletes and committed humanitarians such as Owen Daniels, who is truly focused on helping kids in Houston with his Catch a Dream Foundation work.”
Oh, what a night in Houston. Everyone went home with stories to tell, memories to cherish and knowing that they helped a great cause with Owen Daniels and the Catch a Dream Foundation.
Media coverage of the Owen Daniels Celebrity Server event included KHOU-TV, The Rod Ryan Show, Chron.com and CultureMap.com.
Reported by Joe Pogge, Strike Marketing
Still hungry? Click these links to learn more about Morton’s exciting Celebrity Server and Lunch with a Legend series throughout the U.S.
Foodarazzi: 60 SECONDS WITH CHARLEY HOFFMAN
01 year ago
PGA TOUR player, Charley Hoffman
OCCUPATION:
PGA TOUR Golfer
THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME:
Competitive, Easy-going, Focused.
FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION:
Cabo San Lucas.
WHEN I’M NOT WORKING, I’M…:
With my wife and daughter, either at our pool in Las Vegas or the beach in San Diego.
ONE THING I’VE BEEN DYING TO TRY:
Running a marathon.
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT IN GOLF:
Winning the 2010 Deutsche Bank Championship.
FAVORITE DRINK/COCKTAIL:
Grape Vodka and soda.
I STAY HOME TO WATCH:
Catching up on Dexter and Entourage via Netflix.
FAVORITE PLACE TO CHILL OUT:
Any lake where I can jet ski or wakeboard.
WHO WOULD PLAY YOU IN A SUMMER MOVIE BLOCKBUSTER:
Jeff Daniels from Dumb and Dumber, of course.
PRIZED POSSESSION:
My daughter.
PRE-GAME RITUALS:
I arrive at the course about 2 hours early, have a light workout with some stretching, grab some food and then head out to the driving range and practice green.
IF I WASN’T A GOLFER, I’D BE:
A beach bum in San Diego.
FINISH THIS SENTENCE: The best part of my job is…
Doing what I love and being able to make money while doing it. It truly is the best job in the world!
As the “Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR,” we’re proud to partner with Charley Hoffman for the upcoming “Celebrity Servers at Morton’s” event in our Las Vegas location. Check out the recent coverage this event has seen in Las Vegas Review-Journal, ESPN Radio 1100, Channel 3 KSNV (NBC) and Channel 8 KLAS (CBS).
Reported by Mindy Eras, Preferred Public Relations
Delicious Charity
41 year ago
Even though we’re best known for our famous steaks, at Morton’s we don’t spend every moment behind the grill! Equally important to us is our commitment to charity and the sports community at large. Not only are we honored to be the “Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR,” but we’re extremely proud of all the heart-warming charitable events that we host throughout the year at our 77 Morton’s steakhouses around the world. From football and baseball greats at our Celebrity Server dinners to beloved Hall of Famers at Lunch with a Legend (LWAL), the art of giving – and serving up great memories – is alive and well at Morton’s!
LWAL: Deacon Jones and Vince Ferragamo at Morton’s The Steakhouse, Downtown Los Angeles
On July 20, football-minded fans enjoyed a great meal with NFL Hall of Fame defensive end Deacon Jones and former Los Angeles Rams quarterback Vince Ferragamo who had the room laughing and smiling from the first course through dessert.
Regarded as one of the best defensive ends of all time, Deacon Jones has played for the LA Rams, San Diego Chargers, and Washington Redskins. Ferragamo, who dominated the field when the LA Rams went to Super Bowl XIV, has played for the Buffalo Bills , Green Bay Packers, and even played in the Canadian Football League. Both took time out of there busy schedules to come into Morton’s The Steakhouse in Los Angeles on Figueroa Street and interact with their #1 fans.
ESPN radio hosts, Mark Willard and Max Kellerman, asked Jones and Ferragamo how they felt about Farmers Field and LA having a football team again and both agreed it would be great for the community – especially the fans!
To listen to the Deacon Jones and Vince Ferragamo podcast visit http://espn.go.com/espnradio/losangeles/play?s=la&id=6787756. To view the ESPN slideshow, click here.
Reported by Wayne Pua and Spenser Dayoub, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Downtown Los Angeles (Figueroa). Photo credit: ESPN Los Angeles.
Celebrity Server with Ryan Howard at Morton’s The Steakhouse, Philadelphia
On Thursday, July 21st, 2011, Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard hosted his 2nd Celebrity Server event at Morton’s in Philadelphia. The event featured Howard and several of his teammates, including Cliff Lee, Shane Victorino, Jimmy Rollins, Cole Hamels, Chase Utley, and many more, who all graciously traded in their gloves and caps for aprons and notepads, as they spent their night-off of the field serving guests a memorable steak dinner.
Not only did they donate their time, but Howard and his teammates also donated signed jerseys and other Phillies paraphernalia to the silent auction. Additional must-have items included a jersey from Boston Celtics small forward, Paul Pierce, and a signed Muhammad Ali boxing glove. All proceeds from the event’s ticket sales and silent auction went to the Ryan Howard Family Foundation to support underprivileged families in the greater Philadelphia region. A sold-out crowd of over two hundred guests were in attendance to support the cause. Launched in 2009, the foundation focuses on “improving quality of life” for disadvantaged youth and families in the Philadelphia and St. Louis metropolitan areas through the development and implementation of programs that advance education, nutrition, physical fitness, and socio-economic status.
For more coverage of the Ryan Howard Celeb Server event, visit Phillychitchat.com.
Reported by Alexa Darrow, Cashman and Associates. Photo credit: Alexa Darrow.
LWAL: Pat Fitzgerald at Morton’s The Steakhouse, Wacker Place
Over 70 guests gathered in the boardroom of Morton’s The Steakhouse Wacker Place on July 26, as ESPN’s Waddle & Silvy broadcast live with Northwestern University Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald for another installment in Morton’s acclaimed Lunch with a Legend Series. Diners enjoyed a signature Morton’s menu, including the famed Single Cut Filet Mignon with béarnaise and decadent Double Chocolate Mousse, while Fitzgerald discussed everything from Northwestern athletics to Chicago sports.
To listen to the Pat Fitzgerald podcast visit http://espn.go.com/espnradio/chicago/play?s=chicago&id=6803561.
Enjoy this Q&A with Pat Fitzgerald from ESPN Chicago: http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/colleges/post/_/id/3260/fitzgerald-nu-means-that-much-to-me.
Reported by Lindsay Rafayko, Empower Public Relations. Photo credit: Lindsay Rafayko.
LWAL: Morgan Wootten at Morton’s The Steakhouse, Connecticut Avenue
Morton’s The Steakhouse – Connecticut Avenue
ESPN980’s “The Sports Fix” hosts Kevin Sheehan and Thom Loverro set up shop at Morton’s The Steakhouse in downtown DC today in front of a packed house of fans anxious to hear the guest of honor and legendary local high school basketball coach, Morgan Wootten .
Coach Wootten, the most successful basketball coach at any level…ever, joined guests for a lunch of (appropriately so) the best steak anywhere. Those in attendance got the chance to hear the legendary coach reflect on his time at DeMatha Catholic High School in nearby Hyattsville, MD where from 1956-2002 he earned an all-time record of 1274-192, making him the winningest coach in the history of the sport. How’s that for legendary?
The live discussion covered everything from Coach Wootten’s watershed win in 1965 over then undefeated Power Memorial Academy to his take on the best and most memorable moments in local DC sports history. Wootten recalled friend and fellow coach Red Auerbach telling him after a painful one point loss in triple overtime, “You became a spectator Morgan. You lost the feel of the game,” and therefore, he was told, he lost quite easily in fact. Wooten went on to remind the crowd both at Morton’s and over the airwaves that no matter what you endeavor in your life, you have to keep the feel of your game, and you’ll never win.
Over the two hours Wootten received resounding applause from the sold out crowd, but we would be remiss as The Official Steakhouse of the Washington Redskins if we failed to mention another round of applause that erupted midway through a news break. Host Kevin Sheehan broke from his interview with Coach Wootten to announce that today the Redskins re-signed wide receiver Santana Moss, former Baltimore Raven Donte Stallworth, and the Giants’ Barry Cofield.
All told, it was a great day for Washington sports fans at Morton’s!
Reported by Anthony Hesselius, Linda Roth Associates, Inc. Photo credit: Anthony Hesselius.
Still hungry? Click here to learn more about Morton’s Lunch with a Legend and Celebrity Server series throughout the U.S.
Morton’s “Above Par” Wine Series Concludes with Ernie Els
01 year ago
Morton’s is the “Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR,” and there are several opportunities for our guests to celebrate this partnership, both on and off the course. In all U.S. Morton’s restaurants, we’re featuring exclusive “Above Par” wine selections, i.e. “golfer wine” selections. Earlier this month, I started featuring our “Above Par” wines, including Greg Norman Estates and Jack Nicklaus Wines. For this week’s “Wine Wednesday,” we conclude the series with Ernie Els, “Signature,” Bordeaux Blend, Stellenbosch.
The winemaker and managing director for the Ernie Els Winery in Stellenbosch, South Africa is Louis Strydom. On the winery’s website, his biography explains that “Louis has walked the long road with Ernie since the brands inception during 1999 and has been father to each and every wine produced.” He is a winemaker that is passionate about terroir and has a complete understanding of how his vines perform. His attention to detail comes through in the bottle!
Mr. Els embarked on this wine venture simply for the love of red wines, and he continues to be heavily involved in the tasting process at the winery. His hands-on approach gives his wines great focus and depth of character.
Like the other golfers behind our “Above Par” wines, Mr. Els is also an incredibly generous philanthropist. In 2009, he and his wife, Liezl, established the Els for Autism Foundation and are currently raising funds to finance the Els Center of Excellence. It’s a cause that’s close to the Els’ hearts, because their son was diagnosed with Autism. In a heartfelt message to those affected by Autism or supporting his foundation, he says, “Years from now, people may remember me as a golfer and a major champion. But I’d like also to be remembered as somebody who took the issue of Autism and did something with it. The rest of my life, I’ll be fighting this thing…I hope you’ll join me.”
And with that, I hope you’ll join me in saluting these talented and generous men behind our “Above Par” wine selections.
Cheers!
Sara Fasolino
Certified Sommelier/Morton’s Beverage Manager
Morton’s The Steakhouse
To learn more about Morton’s and the PGA TOUR, including exclusive restaurant events and opportunities to help support Birdies for the Brave, a PGA TOUR charity, please visit www.mortons.com/pgatour.
Morton’s ♥’s Celebrities!
01 year ago
"Cake Boss" Buddy Valestro
As the summer heats up, so do the A+ list celebrity sightings at Morton’s The Steakhouse! Since announcing that we’re “The Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour” (this also marks Morton’s first official league-wide sports partnership!) some of the greatest and most colorful golf players in the world have dined with their families and friends at one of our 77 steakhouses.
From beautiful Oscar-winning actresses (Hilary Swank and Diane Keaton) and hunky actors (Rob Lowe and Bruce Willis), to prime-time comedians (George Lopez and D.L. Hughley) and legendary NASCAR drivers (Junior Johnson, Kyle Busch and Matt Crafton) you never know who you’ll sit next to at Morton’s!
Throughout June, Morton’s welcomed…
The lovely Diane Keaton
Anaheim
Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank
Arlington
St. Louis Cardinals Mark Hamilton
Seattle Mariners Justin Smoak, Chris Gimenez, and Jeff Gray
Atlanta – Buckhead
Carolina Panthers QB and NFL Draft #1 overall pick Cam Newton
Boca Raton
Boxing promoter Don King
Olympic gold medalist swimmer Dara Torres
Basketball player Jérôme Moïso- Owner of the Florida Panthers Cliff Viner
Boston (Back Bay)
Former MLB pitcher Pedro Martinez
Burbank
Comedian and talk show host George Lopez
Movie director Guy Ritchie
Charlotte
NASCAR legends Junior Johnson, Kyle Busch and Matt Crafton
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Bengals
MLB VP of Baseball Operations and former MLB manager Joe Torre
Former President of Mexico Vincente Fox
Cleveland
Former NBA player Austin Carr
Texas Rangers’ Manager Ron Washington and players
Cleveland Indians Travis Hafner
Musician Wolfgang Van Halen and actress Valerie Bertinelli
Cleveland Cavaliers President Len Komorski, GM Chris Grant, Head Coach Byron Scott, players Christian Eyenga, Samardo Samuels, Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson
Dallas
Miami Heat Udonis Haslem
NBC sportscaster Ahmad Rashad
Actress Diane Keaton
Former Mayor of Dallas Tom Leppert
Denver
Comedian D.L. Hughley
Denver Tech
Radio broadcaster for Denver Broncos Dave Logan
Fort Lauderdale
Former Miami Dolphins QB Dan Marino
Hackensack
Rapper Ja Rule
Dr. Oz
Hartford
Owner of Anderson’s Conn Valley and Ghost Horse Vineyards Todd Anderson
Jacksonville
Cake Boss Buddy Valestro
Las Vegas
Morton’s Board of Directors member William Anton
Former NFL player Herschel Walker
Macau
PGA golf instructor Butch Harmon
Miami
Dallas Mavericks Dirk Nowitzki, Dominique Jones, and Brian Cardinal
Radio personality Sid Rosenberg
Nashville
Actor, writer, and political personality Ben Stein
Mayor of Nashville Karl Dean
New Orleans
Former New Orleans Saints running back Deuce McAllister
Oscar-winning special effects makeup artist Greg Cannom
New Orleans Hornets Aaron Gray
Hollywood producer Randall Emmett
Jazz musicians Jeremy Davenport and Irvin Mayfield
Actor Bruce Willis
Former Mayor of New Orleans Ray C. Nagin
Palm Desert
Senator Barbara Boxer
Erin Brokovich
Phoenix
Washington Nationals Jayson Werth, Laynce Nix, and Rick Ankiel
Baltimore Ravens Terrell Suggs
Businessman Charles Keating
Reston
Washington Redskins Head Coach Mike Shanahan
Richmond
CBS news anchor Angela Pellerano
Virginia Lt. Governor Bill Bolling
San Francisco
Actor Rob Lowe
San Juan
Golf legend Chi Chi Rodriguez
Seattle
Seattle Mariners Miguel Olivo and Adam Kennedy
Los Angeles Angels pitchers Jered Weaver, Joel Pineiro, and Dan Haren
Members of the Dallas Stars
Kid Cudi
Singapore
Retired English footballer Andy Cole
Toronto
Avril Lavigne and Brody Jenner
Troy
Retired NHL players Sergei Fedorov and Chris Chelios
Washington D.C.
Speaker of the House John Boehner
Senator Robert Menendez
Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis
Former White House Press Corp Helen Thomas
Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizz
PGA Golfers
Matt Kuchar (Bethesda)
Joe Affrunti (Chicago – State)
John Jacobs (Scottsdale)
Jerry Kelly (Hartford)
Bob Tway (Hartford)
Scott Verplank (Hartford)
Ian Poulter (Hartford)
Kirk Triplett (Phoenix)
Rod Pampling (King of Prussia)
Tim “Lumpy” Herron (King of Prussia)
Patrick Cantlay (King of Prussia)
Nick Watney (King of Prussia)
Pat Perez (King of Prussia)
K.J. Choi (King of Prussia)
Bruce Lietzke (Seattle)
The Players Champion, K.J. Choi
Morton’s “Above Par” Series Continues with Jack Nicklaus Wines
31 year ago
Last week’s “Wine Wednesday” blog post launched our “Above Par” wine series. I’m exploring the three incredible golfer wines that Morton’s is featuring as the Official Steakhouse of the PGA TOUR and started off the series with Greg Norman Estates.
For this week’s “Wine Wednesday,” I’m featuring Jack Nicklaus Wines, specifically the Jack Nicklaus, “Private Reserve,” Meritage from from Napa that we proudly offer at all U.S. Morton’s locations. (Click here for a beef tenderloin recipe that’s recommended as an entree pairing for this wine or search our blog for ‘beef tenderloin’ for other options.) As the story goes, Mr. Nicklaus had to be persuaded for several years before he decided to take the plunge into the wine world. When he made the leap, he chose to work with the esteemed Terlato family of Terlato Wines International.
So who really makes this wine? The winemaker who oversees day-to-day operations on the Nicklaus line-up is Marisa Taylor Huffaker. She is a winemaker in Napa whose main job is with Rutherford Hill Winery…a winery that has won many awards. Marisa was born and raised in wine country and has worked her way through the industry at such wineries as Piper Sonoma, J and has even spent some time in Italy to hone her skills. She graduated from the University of California, Davis, first with a B.S. in Chemistry and then an M.S. in Food Science/Enology.
But back to Jack…
His legacy includes not only a successful golf career and an impressive wine portfolio, it also includes golfcourse designer, businessman and philanthropist. He and his wife, Barbara, created the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting the health, safety and well-being of children in their local community. And in 2010, Mr. Nicklaus, along with Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, came together for “The Big 3” — a one-day event that raised an historic $15.1 million dollars for the Mountain Mission Kids!
Yet another impressive golfer wine (and golfer) that we’re proud to feature on our “Above Par” wine list. I’ll conclude this series next week with the story behind Ernie Els, “Signature,” Bordeaux Blend, Stellenbosch.
Cheers!
Sara Fasolino
Certified Sommelier and Morton’s Beverage Manager
Morton’s The Steakhouse