By Judy Carmack Bross
For almost 50 years the force for hands-on preservation and effective advocacy for both buildings and neighborhoods has been Landmarks Illinois whose galas first celebrated landmark buildings and now living legendary landmarks. In the last 14 years over 40 individuals, families and corporations have received awards. Almost 700 guests attended the recent gala at the Hilton Chicago that raised nearly $800,000 and singled out passionate preservationists at the heart of saving what is important to Chicago.
Past and Present Legendary Landmarks: Front row: Col. Jennifer Pritzker; Ed Wehmer, Wintrust; John Murphy, Murphy Development Group; John Vinci; Judy McCaskey. Back row: Fred Berglund, Berglund Construction; Chris Lee, Bulley & Andrews Masonry Restoration; Michael Kutza; Dan Levin; Ray McCaskey; Joe Antunovich.
This year, Landmarks Illinois honored Ed Wehmer, President and CEO of Wintrust, John Murphy, Chairman and CEO of the Murphy Development Group as 2019 Corporate Legendary Landmarks and dedicated civic leaders and philanthropists Judith and Raymond McCaskey as 2019 Legendary Landmarks—all key partners in landmark efforts. The Murphy Group is currently undertaking the mixed-use re-development of the iconic Old Cook County Hospital, working closely with Landmarks Illinois.
Master of Ceremonies Tim Kazurinksy and Landmarks Illinois President & CEO Bonnie McDonald.
Bonnie McDonald, Landmarks Illinois President and CEO described how the selection process works:
“Landmarks Illinois carefully curates honorees named Legendary Landmarks based on the significance and longevity of the designee’s cultural, philanthropic and corporate contributions to Chicago and beyond. Our 2019 Legendary Landmarks have personal and meaningful connections to historic preservation among their many stellar achievements, and we are proud to illuminate these individuals and corporations as Legendary Landmarks.”
LI President & CEO Bonnie McDonald and Dajuan King.
2019 Legendary Landmarks Celebration paddle raise. Centered, LI board member Jean Follett.
Landmarks Illinois Board Member Erica Meyer, David Hamel, Lynn Orschel and Connie Barkley with the Zazz Dancers.
The 2019 Legendary Landmarks Celebration Committee members were: co-chairs Joseph M. Antunovich and Shelley Gorson, Erika Block, Landmarks Board Chair Mark Henning, Frieda Ireland, Judi Male, Sandra Rand, Kathleen Swien and Anne Voshel. Former Saturday Night Live featured player Tim Kazurinsky, now Chicago actor and screenwriter, was the evening’s hilarious Master of Ceremonies.
Master of Ceremonies Tim Kazurinksy.
2019 Legendary Landmarks Ed Wehmer (Wintrust), John Murphy (Murphy Development Group) and Ray and Judy McCaskey.
LI Emeritus Board Member and Celebration Committee Member Sandra Rand, LI Board Member Michael Altheimer and Deven Rand.
Photo Credits: Oscar H. Izquierdo, Pivot Photography, Lewis Purdy
