The 30th Annual Columbian Ball: October 23, 2010
On Saturday, October 23, 2010 the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago held its 30th Annual Columbian Ball, where guests were invited to celebrate science. The evening was full of excitement and a true success – thanks to the support of all our guests and sponsors. By exceeding our fundraising goal and raising $2 million, the Museum will continue to inspire children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering.
We express our sincere gratitude to our honorary co-chairs, the Honorable and Mrs. Richard M. Daley and Mrs. Cindy Pritzker; our Ball co-chairs, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gordon, Ms. Jill Garling and Mr. Tom Wilson; and our auction co-chairs, Mr. and Mrs. Jay Henderson and Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Hennessy. It is through their work and dedication that we were able to exceed our goal.
The evening included a cocktail reception in the Museum’s Rotunda, a viewing of Science Storms in Allstate Court and an opportunity to meet participants of CASE. As guests enjoyed Science Storms, an exhibit that breaks down the basic physics and chemistry behind nature’s most powerful phenomena, they took turns manipulating the Museum’s 40-foot indoor tornado; created their own rainbow; and watched lightning crack over their heads courtesy of a giant Tesla Coil. Month at the Museum winner Kate McGroarty of Chicago was also in attendance.
A live auction with Fox Chicago’s Robin Robinson, acting as the evening’s auctioneer, led the bidding on luxury experiences. Items available included a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the 2011 Annual Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony and a chance to have lunch with Mayor Richard M. Daley.
After dinner our guests were inspired to leave their seats and began dancing to a fabulous musical performance by Under the Streetlamp: An intimate evening with the stars of Chicago’s "Jersey Boys."
The Museum extends a special thanks to our Presenting Sponsors
The Allstate Corporation as well as Andi and Jim Gordon, The Edgewater Funds.
And our Principal Sponsors
BP America, Max and Jim Farrell, Illinois Tool Works Inc., MacLean-Fogg Company, Motorola, Northern Trust, Pritzker Foundation and United Airlines, the official and exclusive airline of the Museum of Science and Industry.
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about the museum
The Museum of Science and Industry opened its doors in 1933 and is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere.