Drinking for a Good Cause

By Marcus Gilmer in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 21, 2008 5:35PM

If you're like us, then you love to drink and you like to support great causes. Well, tonight's your chance to do both! The Greater Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association is throwing a party to raise some money, "to support programs and services for the more than half a million Illinois residents affected by Alzheimer’s disease. These programs and services include our 24-hour Helpline, support groups, educational opportunities for both public and professional audiences, and Safe Return." Last year's event raised over $117,000.

This year's event, called "A Toast to Remember" happens tonight at the River East Art Center and will feature a smörgåsbord of great wine and beer, as well as silent auctions and raffles. Tonight's event features the new inclusion of specialty beers and microbrews, and judging from the list of partners, there will be more than enough excellent drinks to keep you occupied.

But of course, it's about more than booze. It's about helping the fight against a terrible disease that, in some way, touches almost all of us at one time. (For further reading, check out Melissa Isaacson's excellent January feature from the Trib's Sunday Magazine about her parents' struggle with Alzheimer's.)

Besides, where else will you get to bid on a ride in the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile or a week of golf at the historic St. Andrews course in Scotland, all in the name of helping those with Alzheimer's?

"A Toast to Remember" Alzheimer's Benefit, Thursday February 21st, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois St. Tickets are $75 in advance from the website or $85 at the door.