“STARS FOR SARA”: A STAR STUDDED-EVENING OF MUSIC, MEDIA and MEMORIES TO HONOR THE LATE SARA JANZ

The Des Plaines Theatre will come alive with heart and purpose as some of Chicago’s most beloved musicians, media personalities, and entertainers unite for “Stars for Sara,” a charitable benefit honoring the memory of Sara Janz, who passed away far too young at the age of 29. The concept, devised by her mother, Roz Varon, veteran WLS-TV Traffic Anchor, was presented to Entertainment Producer powerhouse Ron Onesti, who agreed without hesitation, to donate his venue for the evening. The event will raise funds for the “Sara Janz Take Your Shot Memorial Scholarship” through the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts &Sciences (NATAS), the producer of the Chicago/Midwest Emmy® Awards, ensuring Sara’s light continues to inspire future generations of media professionals. Hosted by Chicago/Midwest Emmy®-winning journalist Val Warner,
the event promises an unforgettable night of entertainment and remembrance.

Musical performances include:
• Jim Peterik and The Ides of March
• Carl Giammarese of The Buckinghams
• Steve Sanders and The Mixaphors
• Ryan Chiaverini with Robbie Gold
• Ted Wulfers, acclaimed singer-songwriter
• Sean Wyte, R&B vocalist
• Blake Alexander, singer/entertainer
Comedy performances by:
• B. Cole
• Gary Wheaton

Actors:
• Yolonda Ross (The Chi)
Media Personalities:
• ABC 7 Chicago’s Hosea Sanders, Judy Hsu, Tracy Butler,
Tanja Babich, Terrell Brown
• Alan Krashesky and Kathy Brock
• Rich Koz / Svengoolie
• Jeanne Sparrow (V103) and Melissa Forman (WLIT)
• Kye Martin (NBC 5)
• Sarah Jindra (WGN)
• Sylvia Perez (Fox 32Chicago)
• Eddie V (Volkman) Radio Personality
• Bart Shore (Retired WBBM News Radio Traffic)
• Turi Ryder (Talk Radio/Podcast Host)
• Catherine Johns (formerly of WLS Music Radio)
• Karen Hand (formerly with ‘BBM FM)
• Roz Varon (Retired WLS-TV Traffic Anchor and Feature Reporter)
• Tommy Edwards (former PA Announcer for the Chicago Bulls, WLS
Music Radio)
• Lisa E (Radio Personality/Producer)

Special Appearance:
• LaShawn Ford (House of Representatives 8th District)

The evening will begin with a heartfelt presentation by the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, who will perform the Color Guard in honor of Sara’s longtime involvement in scouting. “Stars for Sara” is not just a tribute, it’s a celebration of a young life that touched many and a meaningful way to help aspiring students through the NATAS “Sara Janz Take Your Shot Memorial Scholarship.” Sara, daughter of retired ABC-7 Traffic/Feature Reporter Roz Varon, and ABC-7 Engineer Ed Janz, followed in her parent’s footsteps with
tireless efforts on behalf of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of NATAS. She was instrumental in founding the Chapter’s Junior Board and recognized the need for a space where younger voices could come together to create meaningful change. Her spirit will continue to guide the Junior Board’s mission for years to come. A former NATAS Chicago Scholarship recipient herself, Sara’s gratitude for that opportunity never wavered. She dedicated countless hours volunteering at NATAS events, inspiring others through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering passion for the media industry.

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