The American Veterans for Equal Rights Chicago chapter marked Veterans Day Nov. 11 with a dinner and auction benefit at Ann Sather’s on Belmont, an annual tradition since 1992. This will be the last time at Ann Sather’s on Belmont, as the restaurant makes way for a major new residential and commercial development on the block.
Jim Darby, co-founder of the chapter 32 years ago, attended the event. He and his husband, Patrick Bova, who was unable to attend, were both presented Happy Warrior awards for their decades of commitment to LGBTQ+ veterans and servicemembers.
Other Happy Warrior awards were presented to AVER volunteers Ben Saucedo and Ben Diseroad, who was unable to attend.
Chicago Alds. Bennett Lawson (44th) and Timmy Knudsen (43rd) were in attendance. Recordings from other politicians were played on a TV screen: Mayor Brandon Johnson, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Sen. Dick Durbin, U.S. Rep Jan Schakowsky, and U.S. Rep Mike Quigley.
Melissa Terrell and Sue Jones of Lakeside Pride performed Taps; Bernie Santarsiero led the Pledge of Allegiance; Dean Ogren and Richard Peterson sang America the Beautiful; and Ogren also performed the National Anthem. Ale Hernandez posted the colors.
See https://www.averchicago.org/ for info.
