Up, Up and Away
Balloons and party games made for a nostalgic birthday bash.

The River East Art Center’s open space and sky-high ceilings were decked with birthday-themed decor — including dozens of brightly colored balloons — at the fourth annual American Cancer Society Skyline Soiree. The decor fit perfectly with the philosophy of the event: “Tonight we’re celebrating all the birthdays that were made possible because of the American Cancer Society,” said co-chair Emily Rillo. More than 500 guests, including 96.3 FM’s Showbiz Shelly and “The Bachelorette” winner Ed Swiderski, engaged in other party elements, including putt-putt golf, a costume-filled photo booth and a travel-themed pin the tail on the donkey, complete with flight voucher prizes. Though there were no candles to blow out, the event’s wish still came true, as it raised more than $100,000 to help support the American Cancer Society’s research and free programs for cancer patients and their families. The Sun-Times was the media sponsor of this event. MORE ONLINE: Full gallery at Suntimes.com