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Kick Start the Ride!
April 19 Fundraiser to Help Operation Route 66 tell the stories of Middle East war vets
Chicago, IL – Local photographers and founders of Gerber + Scarpelli photography are using their talents to help tell the story of Middle East war veterans on a project that they are embarking on in May called “Operation Route 66.” Kurt Gerber and son Nick Gerber are using their visual gifts to give a light to some of the forgotten war veterans of our generation. The duo founded 41 Degrees North Productions, as a nonprofit documentary film to help others. To help fund the $140,000 for production and travel costs, the duo is hosting “Kick Start the Ride” a benefit to help get Operation Route 66 on the road.
The majestic Columbia Yacht Club, located off of Chicago’s historic Lake Shore Drive will play host to this evening full of fun, prizes, live music, great food and drinks. The event will feature a silent auction and several inspiring speeches from some true American heroes, veterans of foreign wars.
The mission of Operation Route 66 is to raise funds and awareness for veterans’ organizations benefitting American soldiers who have served in the wars in the Middle East. Professional photographers Kurt and Nick Gerber will embark on a motorcycle trip across the Western United States to collect stories and portraits of soldiers who have served to secure the safety and stability of the American people.
“My son and I are very excited to begin this journey”, said Kurt Gerber, Founder of Operation Route 66. “Not only does it mean a lot to me personally to be able to share this adventure with Nick, but also it is a great honor to tell the stories of the men and women who fought for our country. They deserve as much support and recognition as we can give.”
WHEN: Thursday April 19, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Columbia Yacht Club
111 N. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
312-455-1144
PRICE: $150/ticket
*After party will be held at Bull & Bear, 431 N. Wells Chicago, IL 60654. All attending guests receive a complimentary beverage!
ABOUT OPERATION ROUTE 66
The mission of Operation Route 66 is to raise funds and awareness for veterans support organizations benefitting American service members who have served in the wars in the Middle East. Professional photographers Kurt and Nick Gerber will embark on a motorcycle trip across the Western United States to collect stories and portraits of soldiers who have served to secure the safety and stability of the American people. Accompanied by a small film crew, the team will document the ride and conduct interviews with soldiers and their families along the journey. The father and son team, along with their crew, will navigate Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles over a two-week period in May 2012. At the conclusion of the ride, the motorcycles used will be up for auction with all proceeds benefiting a designated veterans organization. Ultimately, a collection of the portraits and film will be made accessible to the public to honor and identify those who so readily gave. For more information, please visit: www.operationroute66.us.
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