So tonight was the much anticipated “black tie event”… with me in my lime bow tie!
It was the annual charity fundraiser gala for the American Cancer Society. The event
was held at the Chicago Opera House – a beautiful venue for this wonderful event.

The place was filled with all the heavy-hitters… CEO’s of all the big Chicago-based
corporations, power spouses, movers & shakers, the ladies who lunch… it was a
veritable philanthropic who’s-who of Chicago… and me… a little out of place?!

It started with a reception in the theater lobby. Silent auction items everywhere,
ranging from gift baskets to spa treatments to sports tickets. From toys for kids to
mink coats to jewelry. There were also two raffle items – a large diamond ring from
Tiffany’s and a fantastic trip package to Scottsdale, Arizona.

At my dinner table, hosted by my friend Sonya from United Airlines, I ate with some
heavy-hitters from Goodman Theater, Comisky Park, the Dominican Republic Consulate
and three charities: Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer & Malaria. Rubbing elbows with the
“in crowd” was quite the change from getting all dirty in the studio! I felt so grown-up!
I actually had to wear long pants AND socks!!!

The entertainer was comedian Martin Short who got the crowd warmed-up
and ready for the main event – the live auction. Incredible “dream vacation” packages,
sports packages, all-star trips to the Academy Awards, a New York adventure to
Broadway and the Tony Awards… even a labradoodle pup was auctioned off –
all to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

All in all, it was a fun evening. Definitely a bit out of my comfort zone. It did help knowing
a couple people at my table… as well as the surprise of seeing my biking friend Nancy walk
in the door! She got a last minute invitation, so her and her husband John also came to
the gala.. unbeknownst to me. Nice surprise to see her there!