IOC Officials to be Guests of Honor at Chicago Night Celebration

CHICAGO (April 3, 2009)-On Monday, The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Evaluation Commission will be honored at a celebration showcasing Chicago's rich cultural treasures at the world renowned Art Institute of Chicago. City Night is Chicago 2016's chance to show the delegation some of the unique aspects of Chicago-which would take center stage if Chicago were chosen as Host City for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"If Chicago is given the honor to host the Games in 2016, the athletes and visitors who come to our city will enjoy a fantastic experience in the heart of our city," said Patrick G. Ryan, chairman and CEO of Chicago 2016. "This week is our chance to show the IOC some of Chicago's rich cultural offerings-our museums, exhibits, public art, and diverse array of music, dance and theatrical offerings."

The Evaluation Commission guests will be entertained by Chicago blues legends Koko Taylor and Buddy Guy; Chicago-born musician and songwriter Andrew Bird, whose eclectic offerings range from folk rock to baroque pop; and the Chicago Children's Choir.

The menu will be created by Tony Mantuano, chef and partner at Spiaggia, and a member of Chicago's culinary elite. He was named "Best Chef: Midwest" in 2005 by the James Beard Foundation, and Spiaggia received the foundation's nomination for Outstanding Restaurant in America in 2006 and 2007.

Mantuano will be preparing a delicious four-course meal highlighting local ingredients, and he will create a special dessert for the occasion. Wine pairings will come from American vineyards.

"Many of Chicago's cultural gems are located within the very same footprint, some of them virtually within a stone's throw of one another," said Ryan.

Chicago has a long history of public-private partnerships relating to the arts. Millennium Park, located at Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street, is a prime example. It was funded jointly by the City of Chicago and a long list of civic donors.

Philanthropic and civic-minded Chicagoans also have made possible a lengthy list of programs and projects, including a major new expansion of the Art Institute. Private donors are funding the entire cost of Chicago's bid for the Games.

The Evaluation Commission is in Chicago to assess the bid. Its members will receive briefings in great detail on Chicago 2016's plan and will inspect proposed venue sites as part of its visit.

About Chicago 2016

Chicago 2016 is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose mission is to seek the privilege of hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Chicago. The committee's board consists of business, civic, athletic, cultural and academic leaders representing Chicago and the surrounding Midwest region. Patrick Ryan serves as the organization's chairman and CEO.

Tags: Chicago 2016, IOC