EATING FOR A CAUSE

As if I need a reason to eat more Tunacado, my favorite entrée at RA Sushi! At least this week the money I spend on my sushi fix at RA is going to a great cause and while I scarf down yummy rolls and salty Edamame, I can at at least feel good about it.

This week, May 25-31, RA will host its fourth annual "Nicky's Week" fundraiser to benefit the renowned St. Jude Children's Hospital. 100% of the proceeds from sales of various food and beverage items will help the amazing efforts at St. Jude's to help treat and cure children with life-threatening illnesses.

The fundraiser was developed in memory of longtime St. Jude patient Nicky Maillard, who died in February 2005 after a long battle with brain cancer. A nephew of one of RA's founders, Nicky holds a special place in the hearts of many RA employees. Also, every year patients and families of the hospital visit a restaurant and share their stories with the staff.

RA has raised more than $150,000 for the national hospital and this year they hope to raise $100,000 more. This is an amazing cause and I hope to encourage anyone that loves sushi as much as me to come to RA next week and give a little back!

Annie Neyman
Senior Publicist

CRIMSON PRESENTS: LIVE MUSIC OVERLOAD

Crimson Lounge continues to set the standard to which other nightlife venues in Chicago aspire whether it is the lush décor or the premium liquor and cocktails found at the bar. Once again Crimson has managed to set itself apart from the rest, this time with its ability to provide an overwhelmingly diverse selection of live music throughout the week.

Crimson dedicates three evenings a week to live jazz music to accompany those long anticipated after work cocktails. Tuesday through Thursday nights Crimson is providing different musicians with their own unique interpretation of jazz. Every Tuesday night Crimson features Erin McDougald, Chicago’s leading lady in vocal jazz who has performed in venues from Chicago to Paris, and even has fans as far as Japan. Petra Van Nuis, another prominent female jazz vocalist in Chicago, is known for making incredible connections with her audience and is also featured weekly at Crimson. In addition to jazz vocal talent, Crimson also features Audley L. Reid, a superbly skilled musician who plays everything from the alto sax to the soprano sax, tenor sax, baritone sax, and flute. With even more jazz acts to come, this is an after work event not to be missed.

Crimson Lounge has been known to regularly bring in big name DJs, yet it should not be overlooked that 5 nights a week Crimson is providing local DJ talent that is more than holding its own. Frankie Hollywood, Jamm Master C, DJ Rex, and DJ Kevin are throwing down beats every week. With 3 nights of live jazz, and 5 nights of incredible DJs, Crimson Lounge has once again set the standard in Chicago for a quality nightlife experience.

EVERY BRIDE SHOULD HAVE ONE

Why did I suffer for so long? This is the question I have been asking myself the last few weeks. Coming from a structured corporate background, the beginning of my career with Zapwater has been an eye opener to say the least. From bringing my dog to work to wearing jeans every day…I think I can get used to this. Aside from the comfortable work environment, I am now also exposed to the newest, most sought after Chicago designers and store owners. I plan on using on these connections to address my closet since it hasn’t seen much in the way of “trendy” or “hip” in a decade or so.

While it may take some time to resurrect my wardrobe, I know I will look fabulous on my wedding day. I recently collaborated with our client, Kristen Amato, to design unique jewelry to complement my wedding dress. The Chicago designer is well-known for her innovative jewelry line, K.Amato that offers gorgeous designs at affordable prices.
Any bride should jump at the chance to create personal pieces through K.Amato. Or, request an exclusive in-store party and include your bridesmaids in the fun! Instead of accessorizing with typical bridal jewelry, express individual style with tailor-made necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

Mingle while you design in K.Amato’s Lincoln Park storefront location at 1229 W. Diversey (312.882.1366).

Mayra Camara
Chief Financial Officer