Autism Speaks Fundraiser Brings Hollywood to Chicago With "An Evening With The Stars"
By Julia Weeman in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 2, 2014 6:45PM
Experience the glitz and glamor of the Academy Awards red carpet without ever leaving Chicago at Autism Speaks' sixth annual Oscars-themed fundraiser. "An Evening with the Stars Red Carpet Spectacular" takes place Sun., March 2nd at the InterContinental O'Hare Hotel. In its six years, the event has raised over half a million dollars for autism research and awareness.
"An Evening with the Stars..." will feature full red carpet coverage and pre-show interviews on the big screen before the viewing of the 86th Annual Academy Awards which will take place on multiple giant screens inside the InterContinental Ballroom.
Live and silent auctions will include prizes such as dinner theater packages and all-expense paid vacations. The evening will feature Masters of Ceremonies' WGN Radio Personality Steve Cochran and Chicago Comedienne/WGN Radio Personality Patti Vasquez. Vasquez has a personal connection to the cause and is a long-time advocate of Autism Speaks.
Another longtime supporter of the cause, Andrew Salgado, will be providing musical entertainment. His recently released song, "Look At You Now" is available for purchase on iTunes, where a percentage of every sale goes back to Autism Speaks. Chicago notables who have lent their name and celebrity as honorary committee members include: Actor Joe Mantegna; SNL/Second City Alum Tim Kazurinsky; actors Jim Belushi & George Wendt; former Chicago Bears Mark Greene, Jim Thornton, and Glen Kozlowski; Radio personality Rick Kogan; and legendary musician Jim Peterik, who will also perform that night.
The Chicagoland Chapter of Autism Speaks will be raising funds to benefit children and families struggling with autism. The charity is the world's leading autism science and advocacy group, whose goals include funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of people with autism and their families.
The goal for this year's fundraiser is $120,000. Tickets range from $175 for individuals to $300 for couples and $1500-$10,000 for sponsorship tables, which seat 4-10 people. To gain access to the pre-show VIP reception and get premier seating at the benefit, be sure to purchase one of the premier tables. Tickets may be purchased online here or by calling 224-567-8573.