L Word Stars at GenderPAC Cook-Off

The team of Marlee Matlin and Shelley Young won the cook-off challenge against Jennifer Beals and Art Smith Saturday night at the annual Chicago benefit for GenderPAC, a national gender-rights group. All in good fun, the celeb chefs were challenged to do a quick turnaround meal and drinks, judged by Daniela Sea (L Word castmate to Matlin and Beals) and her assistants from the crowd, Diane Dodin and Linda Sassone. Comic Marga Gomez MC’d the events, which were held at Young’s Chopping Block at the Merchandise Mart. GenderPAC Executive Director Riki Wilchins welcomed the attendees, and event co-chairs were Jeff Grinspoon and Michael Cohan. GenderYOUTH staff also addressed the crowd, speaking of the need to protect youth, and both Beals and Matlin were emotional in their support of the work of GenderPAC. The auction raised extra money, including more than $2,000 for an autographed apron. The Kit Kat Divas performed to close out the evening. Top photo, from left: Gomez, Young, Sea, Beals, Matlin and Smith. Photos by Kat Fitzgerald. For more photos see http://www.mysticimagesphotography.com