Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley has proclaimed Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010, to be "Chef Art Smith Day in Chicago." Smith is being honored because of his numerous culinary and philanthropic accomplishments, and the day concludes with his induction into the Chefs Hall of Fame by the Chicago Culinary Museum. The Museum and Hall of Fame will celebrate Chef Smith's induction at the Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph. The event will be open to the public and will also serve as a gala fundraiser for the Chicago Culinary Museum.
In an official mayoral proclamation dated June 24, Daley stated:
"WHEREAS, an award winning author, expert instructor and beloved media personality, Chef Art Smith brings a warm heart, generous spirit and infectious enthusiasm to all of his endeavors; and
"WHEREAS, in 1993, Chef Smith founded Common Threads, a non-profit organization that teaches children about diversity and tolerance; and
"WHEREAS, in 2007, Chef Smith was named Chicagoan of Year by Chicago magazine and Humanitarian of the Year by the James Beard Foundation; and
"WHEREAS, by sharing his efforts to combat adult-onset diabetes by changing his eating habits and lifestyle, Chef Smith has inspired many to take charge of their own health; and
"WHEREAS, Chef Smith is the executive chef and co-owner of Table Fifty-Two and Art and Soul restaurants; and
"WHEREAS, Chef Smith will be inducted into the Chicago Culinary Museum's Chefs Hall of Fame at a Gala Fundraiser on September 30, 2010:
"NOW, THEREFORE, I, RICHARD M. DALEY, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO, do hereby proclaim September 30, 2010, to be CHEF ART SMITH DAY IN CHICAGO, and encourage all Chicagoans to recognize his culinary skill and outstanding contributions to our city's position as one of the world's premiere dining and hospitality destinations."
Tickets for the eventfeaturing a cocktail reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. with a full martini bar; silent auction; awards presentation at 6:30 p.m; and dinner at 7 p.m.are $175 per person and $200 at the door, if available. Tickets may be purchased by contacting Carmella Anello of the Chefs Hall of Fame at 630-505-5381 or carmella.anello@us.nestle.com .
Smith recently tied the knot with his partner, Jesus Salguerio, in Washington, D.C., at Smith's Art & Soul restaurant.