January of 2020 promises to be a dazzler with the celebration of the 145th Anniversary of the Chicago Jewelers Association’s long and unique history! Their Black-Tie Gala will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at the luxurious Hotel Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile.
The CJA is the oldest Jewelers’ Association in the United States. As CJA president Rodger Kadet said, “The Chicagoland area is an important link bridging the east with the west in the jewelry industry. We have a strong pulse on what the average American is looking for in the jewelry they wear.” As their event title suggests, “Rising To the Challenge…Today…Tomorrow… Forever.” They plan to be around for a long time to come.
As the industry evolves and changes in these extremely fast-paced times, one thing that is steadfast is that jewelry is a gift that commemorates the most important life events. Virtually everyone gets married with a ring, and the most important anniversaries are traditionally gifted in Gold, Crystal, Silver, Colored Stones and Diamonds. Time has not changed these iconic customs and time has not altered the strong bonds which are the cornerstones of the CJA’s membership for 145 years.
In addition, the Gala will offer its guests an opportunity to view lit displays commemorating the organization’s historical milestones. They will also have a chance to hear from and interact with several scholarship winners, who are part of the Tom Foody Scholarship Program. Tom was a former member who passed away. Kadet also states, “We use events like this to support the scholarship fund, from which we have awarded a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships to Chicago high school students. These students are both economically and by their circumstances, challenged to continue their education.”
As one of the scholarship recipients, Marisol Villaseñor said, “The influence of organizations such as the CJA cannot be measured in monetary value, but in the performance growth their support has had on young Chicagoans pursuing higher education.”
The event will feature cocktail music by Peter Lerner’s Jazz trio and dinner and dancing music by The Gentlemen of Leisure. A chance to win a Diamond and surprise guests will cap an evening to remember!
