eVENTS & NEWS
Big City Night – RIO
February 21st was a night of samba, generosity and magic! More than 350 Gala goers found themselves transformed as they stepped into the South American paradise of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the 11th Annual Big City Night - RIO. They enjoyed a gourmet dinner, dancing and entertainment set to the Latin themes of Brazil. Despite the current economic climate, the event was a resounding success, raising more than $165,000 for Aspire Children’s Services.
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NBC5 Chicago’s health and nutrition correspondent, Dr. Sandy Goldberg, charmed the audience as emcee. Goldberg, along with Tom and Kathy Roth, presented the Geraldine Post Breaker “Building Their Futures” Award to Kevin Hitzeman and Mary Dempsey. This award is given to Aspire supporters who lead the way through their powerful example and generosity.
A highlight of the night was the live auction which raised more than $60,000. An additional $35,000 was raised when an anonymous donor made a $5000 challenge donation!
As they would say in Brazil, Muito obrigado. Os nossos agradecimentos pelo seu apoio! (Thank you very much. We appreciate your support!)
2009 Big City Night - RIO Sponsors
A very special thank you to our sponsors whose contributions helped to underwrite the cost of the event:
- Bill and Cynthia Caruso
- The Claddagh Foundation, Inc.
- Donald J. Allen
- Drs. Joyce and Anthony Kales
- Good Heart, Work Smart Foundation
- Marquis Jet Partners
- National Van Lines
- Pan American Bank
- Village of Bellwood
- Wilson Boyles and Company
2009 Big City Night - RIO Committee
Big City Night – RIO would not have been possible without the vision and hard work of the Big City Night Committee, chaired by Kerry Baer, Katie Hall and Holly Olis.
Committee Members
Kerry Baer, Co-Chair
Katie Hall, Co-Chair
Holly Olis, Co-Chair
Colette Adams
Sue Ann Capizzi
Molly Clark
Marlene Dantino
Pamela deVarela
Paige Fumo Fox
Tom Hayden
Mary Jane McCampbell
Susan Mika
Kate Mini
Norine Mullins
Joan O’Brien
Sue O’Brien
Barb Prine
Cris Shepard
Mary Jo Schuler
Stephen Schuler
Junior Members
Sarah Mika
Lauren Priebe
Special Thanks
Brody's 800-4Balloons
Mayer Florist
Chris Morris
John Mullins
Royal Graphics Printers
Cris Shepard
Sebastian Szyszka
