socialifechicago

The 31st Annual Columbian Ball gala at the Musuem of Science and Industry celebrated today’s leading inventors. Nearly 800 guests were received by Gala co-chairs: Jackie and Glenn Tilton, Dianna Strassman and Jeff Smisek, Pat and David Mosena. Guests in attendance were the who’s who and civic leaders of Chicago including: Honorary Chair for the ball Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Julie and Jeremy Unruh, David and Susan Axelrod, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Neal Zucker, Bill Kurtis, Donna La Pietra, Alison and Dean Chung and many more. Mr. Mosena, who made a short speech before dinner was served, noted that the Science Rediscovered campaign raised almost $209 million surpassing their goal of $205 million. Inventors recognized that evening included Chef Homaro Cantu of Moto whose creative inventions inspired the nights menu(the “cuban cigar ashtray” was inspired by Larry’s apartment from Three’s Company) Dickson Despommier of Vertical Farm Project and Marques McCammon & Paul Wilbur of Aptera Motors. Guests started off the evening with a cocktail reception in the Rotunda while viewing the Fast Forward…Inventing the Future exhibit.

When Mayor Emanuel walked in there was a bit of commotion around him with people wanting to shake his hand or get a picture. I must say he moves through a crowd faster than the golden snitch in a quidditch game. There was no awkwardness between Desiree Rogers and David Axelrod, with Ms. Rogers assuring him she was calling him within the week for lunch but who was the young man that was her date?

Sponsors for the evening included: Presenting sponsor- JP Morgan Chase & Co, United Airlines. Allstate, Citadel Foundation, Tiffany & Co. Exelon, Northern Trust, Abbott, Crown Family + many others

Décor by Heffernen Morgan Ronsley really complimented the events theme. Food was provided by Jewell Catering. AV Sound and lighting by FROST Chicago.

Fun night!