22nd Annual Boat Captain’s Luncheon

The Canal Corridor Association is hosting its 22^nd Annual Boat Captain’s Luncheon benefit on Tuesday April 4th 2017 honoring Robert D. Burcenski and J. Thomas Alves of Lockport, IL.

Robert D. Burcenski and J. Thomas Alves are pioneers in the economic revitalization of canal-era Lockport, the headquarters of the I&M Canal Commission. They are responsible for the rehabilitation of three historic buildings; the Norton Building, one of the most important buildings along the canal and two commercial buildings in the heart of downtown Lockport. Mr. Burcenski and Mr. Alves are owners of the award winning Tallgrass Restaurant, and previously the Public Landing Restaurant, both of which have served as anchors for downtown Lockport. Mr. Alves serves on the Heritage and Architectural Commission and the Gaylord Building Site Council. In 1995, both honorees received the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois award for preservation leadership in Illinois. The Canal Corridor Association recognizes Mr. Burcenski and Mr. Alves for having vision, grit, impeccable taste in food and wine, and building rehabs in a key canal community.

The Canal Corridor Association’s mission is to preserve history, protect nature, and create destinations to learn and have fun along the I&M Canal from Chicago to La Salle-Peru. The Canal Boat Captain’s Luncheon is CCA’s premiere friend and fundraiser. Past honorees to receive the Boat Captain’s Award have included governmental leaders, broadcasters, corporate CEOs and heads of private foundations. All share a passion and commitment to preserving history that brings clarity to our future by understanding our past.

Please contact Leslie Urnikis or MarQuinta Moore for more information at (815)220-1848.