For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Greater Illinois Chapter hosted its 25th annual gala with the anticipated Grand Chefs Experience in-person at the Field Museum.
Suzanne and Hal Lusk
Guests, including emcee Lourdes Duarte of WGN News, Suzanne and Hal Lusk, AJ and Grant Bruce, and Sandy and Mike Busking, mingled over offered hors d’oeuvres from local eateries, fine wines and spirits, and participated in a culinary-inspired silent auction.
AJ and Grant Bruce
Then, the 430 guests migrated downstairs to dine alongside the world’s largest dinosaur, Maximo. During dinner, keynote speakers Steve Knipstein, president of the Greater Illinois Chapter Board and his wife Julie, as well as three other families, spoke about their experience with cystic fibrosis and the benefits of their therapies.
Chefs who participated in the tasting
An additional 100 guests joined the festivities at the Nightcap afterparty, with an exclusive pre-party hosted by Sue the T-Rex. The event raised an impressive $500,000, which brings the organization one step closer to a cure.
Sandy Busking, Mike Busking, Christy Clow, Susie Winklebleck, Gloria Clow, Dave Winklebleck
Photography by: Photos by Bonnie Robinson Photography
