Chicago Tour-Guide Professionals Association

CHICAGO TOUR-GUIDE PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION

Meeting and Special Event Chronology

This is the most complete historical listing of all CTPA meeting dates, locations and subjects discussed. Click the year below to take you to that year's meetings.

1990 · 1991 · 1992 · 1993 · 1994 · 1995 · 1996
1997 · 1998 · 1999 · 2000 · 2001 · 2002 · 2003
2004 · 2005 · 2006 · 2007 · 2008 · 2009 · 2010 · 2011

1990  
Sunday, July 29 Sieben's Brewery
Sunday, August 26 Rock 'n' Roll McDonald's Party Room
Sunday, September 23 Hay Lemon Restaurant, Chinatown
Sunday, October 28 Boat Club at North Pier
Wednesday, November 14 Board Meeting - Boudin Bakery at Northwestern Train Station
Sunday, December 9 Christmas Party at the home of Jeanne Elledge

1991  
Sunday, January 13 Board Meeting
Sunday, February 10 Ann Sathers Restaurant on Belmont (Luncheon Privided)
Sunday, March 17 Bacino's Pizza on 75 E. Wacker
Sunday, April 28 North Pier
Sunday, July 28 Home of CTPA Member David Becker, including a tour of the suburb of Beverly, Illinois
Sunday, October 27 Goose Island Brewery
Wednesday, November 20 Visit to Marx Gallery, a stunning Art Glass Gallery - the gala introduction party of the CTPA

1992  
Monday, February 10 Members donated services to coordinate shuttle transportation for the United Bus Owners of America (UBOA) party at Excalibur Nightclub
Sunday, April 12 Board Meeting at the Hyatt Regency, Lincolnwood
Friday, May 8 Chiam Restaurant in Chinatown
Tuesday, June 30 Home of CTPA member Charlotte Kirshbaum, to enjoy her slide presentation of "Women in Chicago History-Doers Dazzlers & Devils"
Saturday, September 26 Sulzer Library Tour, Certification Update and viewing video of Chicago River
Thursday, November 12 Chicago Cultural Center, nominations of new officers
Wednesday, December 9 Home of CTPA Member Millie Kirsch, to discuss election results
Saturday, December 19 Board Meeting

1993  
Tuesday, January 12 Christopher's Restaurant, with performance of "Lost in Yonkers" at the Royal George Theater
Saturday, January 30 Board Meeting at the home of Dennis McAllister in Norridge
Thursday, February 25 Shedd Aquarium/Oceanarium w/refreshments in Sounding Restaurant
Saturday, February 27 Board Meeting at the home of Rita Sargen-Simon
Tuesday, March 23 Bella Vista Restaurant and performance of "The Fourth Wall" at Briar Street Theater
Saturday, March 27 Board Meeting
Tuesday, April 27 O'Brien's Pub w/theatrical presentation of "Chicago Women in the Gay 90's" by Grace Mark
Wednesday, June 9 Sulzer Library site visit w/speakers from Destination Management International and Cardinal Coaches
Wednesday, June 23 Capone's Chicago - invitation see this new multimedia presentation

1994  
Tuesday, February 22 Behind the Scene's Tour of Marshall Field's State Street Store
Saturday, October 22 Tour of Graceland Cemetery by CTPA Member and CAF Docent Marguerite Bailey
Saturday, November 12 Mexican Fine Arts Center, "Day of the Dead" exhibit
Tuesday, December 6 The West Egg Restaurant, business meeting to discuss the CTPA certification test and bylaws

1995  
Monday, March 20 Jeweler's Center, lecture about diamonds and jewelry manufacture
Monday, August 7 Board Meeting
Monday, October 16 Navy Pier, Crystal Garden
Tuesday, December 12 Columbia Yacht Club, tour of ship and social (cash) dinner

1996  
Tuesday, February 13 Chicago Athenaeum, viewing of current exhibits at this museum of culture and design
Tuesday, April 9 The Peace Museum, viewing of the exhibits
Tuesday, June 4 Palmer House Hotel Behind-the-Scenes Tour and presentation about Films Made in Chicago
Wednesday, July 10 Museum of Science and Industry, "Movies, Magic and Monsters" Preview
Saturday, July 20 Museum of Science and Industry, Tourism Preview of the OmniMax film, "Special Effects"
Thursday, October 3 Home of Certified Guide Jeanne Elledge, condo party room, Program on "Employee vs. Independent Contractor"

1997  
Monday, February 3 Auditorium Building, Tour of Auditorium Building & Theater
Tuesday, March 25 House of Blues, Tour of facility & Induction of Charlotte Kirshbaum as first Honorary Member of the CTPA
Tuesday, April 22 Sears Tower SkyDeck, 100th Floor, Program: Company & Guide input to improve services
Tuesday, June 10 Marshall Field's Visitor Center, Tour Field's Department Store and presentation by the State Street Council
Thursday, August 14 Washington Library/Beyond Words Café, Discussion of Tour Bus Parking Problems with Commissioner Schoenberger
Thursday, October 23 Drexel Kenwood Mansion/Greatway Transport, Tour of Drexel Historic District & Mansion
Tuesday, November 18 John Hancock Observatory, Enjoy new exhibit on display

1998  
Tuesday, January 13 Cité Restaurant at Lake Point Tower, with a session of "Ask the Experts" discussion of problems on tour
Sunday, February 15 Full day (fee) Chicago Black History Tour of the South Side including lunch at Army & Lou's
Monday, March 9 Upstairs/Downstairs, Women's History at Glessner House
Rescheduled: Monday, March 30 (due to heavy snow fall on March 9)
Monday, April 13 Jazz at Joe's BeBop Café at Navy Pier, plus with viewing of "Into the Deep," a 3-D film shown at the Pier's Imax Theater
Wednesday, May 20 or
Thursday, May 21
Invitation to take a complimentary Chicago Duck Tour on their new boat/vehicles
Tuesday, June 30 Newberry Library, including a Tour of the Library and viewing the Chicago Metro History Center Presentation
Sunday, July 26 Ugly Duck Dinner Cruise - Complimentary Orientation Cruise for this new venue
Monday, August 17 The New O'Hare Airport Procedures with Tour of Transportation Parking areas, refreshments at Skybird meeting/banquet facilities (off T2)
Tuesday, September 8 or
Wednesday, September 9
Reception for Tour Companies, Drivers and Guides at the Chicago Cultural Center (Sponsored by Chicago Dept. of Cultural Affairs)
Tuesday, September 15 Board Meeting at MSI Space Center Café prior to regular meeting
Tuesday, September 15 OmniMax Preview & Reception at the Museum of Science and Industry
Monday, October 19 Planet Hollywood, Invitation to view the locale & enjoy refreshments
Tuesday, November 10 The Chicago Athenaeum cultural exhibits & The Big Downtown Restaurant at the Palmer House

1999  
Wednesday, January 6 Board Meeting
Tuesday, January 26 Yvette's Wintergarden Restaurant
Tuesday, January 26 Invitation to view new OmniMax movie at Museum of Science and Industry
Wednesday, February 24 Tour of the Museum of Contemporary Art with refreshments at the M Café
Tuesday, March 30 Merchandise Mart (Sponsored by Tours at the Mart) & refreshments at Armando's Restaurant, Eleanor Woods inducted as Honorary Member of the CTPA
Thursday, April 22 Ernest Hemingway's Home/Museum in Oak Park
Wednesday, May 5 Invitation to Museum of Science & Industry OmniMax Movie, "Amazon"
Wednesday, May 19 O'Leary's Fire Engine Tour, Sponsored by Chicago Trolley Co.
Tuesday, June 22 Refreshments and meeting space provided by Tucci Benuch, presentation by meeting sponsors: 900 North Avenue Shops & Water Tower Place
Thursday through
Sunday, July 8-11
CTPA Hosted the National Federation of Tourist Guide Assn. Meeting with many social events and tours including (Harold Washington Library/Roosevelt U./Palmer House Hotel/Berghoff Restaurant/Joe's BeBop Restaurant/river cruise)
Wednesday, August 18 Visit to Charnely-Persky House (an Adler/Sullivan/Wright collaboration), 1385 N. Astor Street, refreshments by CTPA
Tuesday, September 21 Quincy Grill (200 S. Wacker), discussed ethics and professionalism in guiding
Wednesday, September 29 Museum of Science & Industry, Preview of OmniMax "Olympic Glory"

2000  
Tuesday, January 18 Chicago Office of Tourism Visitors Center presentation at Water Tower Pumping Station with refreshments provided by Flat Sammies
Tuesday, February 15 Museum of Science & Industry, "Titanic" Exhibit Opening with refreshments
Tuesday, February 29 Museum of Science & Industry, Tour Operator Appreciation Luncheon in Columbian Room
Wednesday, March 1 Museum of Science & Industry, Preview of OmniMax "Dolphins"
Wednesday, April 5 Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 Cannon Drive, visit collection & special exhibits
Friday, April 28 Museum of Science & Industry, Preview of OmniMax "Michael Jordan to the Max"
Sunday, May 21 Bahai Temple, tour of house of worship and gardens, Marlene Kiesler inducted as Honorary Member of the CTPA
Friday, June 16 Shedd Aquarium, "Amazon Rising" Exhibit Open House
Saturday, June 24 Grant Park Music Festival Concert Series, complimentary seating at Rachmaninoff concert
Thursday, July 20 Field Museum "Field Night" and entry to new exhibit - Star Wars: The Magic of Myth
Thursday, July 27 Adler Planetarium, presentation on special exhibits, with SkyShow and exhibit viewing
Sunday, August 13 Tour Cuneo Mansion, Museum & Gardens (Libertyville, IL) with complimentary seating at play, The Misanthrope
Thursday, August 17 Jazzin' at the Shedd, Trolley tours & Amazon related art exhibit with reception
Monday, October 16 Vietnam Veteran's Art Museum (1801 S. Indiana), view collection, enjoy refreshments and hold nominations for CTPA officers
Saturday, October 21 Hosteling International, Sneak Preview Celebration (24 E. Congress Parkway)
Tuesday, October 24 Field Museum, sneak preview & reception of "Kremlin Gold" Exhibit
Thursday, November 2 Spertus Museum (618 S. Michigan), Tour of Collection with provided refreshments
Wednesday, November 15 View 3-D film "Time Escape" at Navy Pier Imax Theater

2001  
Saturday, January 13 Afternoon tour including visit to PGI Offices. Lunch at Bice. Downtown Motorcoach and Walking Tours, with tour commentary by five (5) Certified guides
Wednesday, February 21 International Tourist Guide Day celebration with CTPA representatives posted at the John Hancock and Sears Tower Observatories, Water Tower Pump Station & Chicago Cultural Center
Wednesday, February 21 Meeting at House of Fortune Restaurant in Chinatown, with a presentation by Chinatown Chamber & multi-course (cash) dinner
Thursday, March 8 American Girl Place, tour of store and complimentary tickets to attend the theater production. CTPA directory distribution.
Tuesday, April 17 Part One - Norwood Park Historical Society & Noble-Seymour-Crippen Home) visit & presentation
Tuesday, April 17 Part Two - Wine Tasting at nearby Victorian home of CTPA Certified member, Beverly Livingston.
Monday, July 30 Goodman Theater, Behind the Scenes Tour and presentation about upcoming events and refreshments by Taste America
Monday, August 20 McCormick Place, tour of convention center and meeting with members of the CCVB
Wednesday, August 29 Nordstrom & North Bridge Shops presentation with refreshments sponsored by the Food Court venues, also tour of new Le Meridien Hotel
Tuesday, September 18 Chicago Historical Society Museum, after hours tour of the Chicago History Gallery with refreshments provided by the Big Shoulders Café
Tuesday, September 18 Board Meeting after the regular meeting at nearby restaurant
Thursday, October 4 Museum of Science and Industry, Special Tourism Preview "Human Body"
Wednesday, October 10 Odyssey Cruise Ship, Complimentary Dinner Cruise (Limited to 30 people) (cash bar & tip)
Tuesday, October 30 Field Museum, reception and sneak preview of "Cleopatra of Egypt" exhibit
Wednesday, November 14 Illinois Institute of Technology, Tour of Campus and presentation on architectural significance of area

2002  
Tuesday, January 29 Harold Washington Library, "Resources for Guides" tour of Chicago collection by librarian William Provis and CTPA Certified Guides presentation entitltled "Places with Stories"
Thursday, February 21 International Tour Guide Day, free Loop walking tours given by CTPA members, tours of "City Space", the Chicago Architectural Foundation exhibit in the Santa Fe building
Thursday, February 21 (Cash) Dinner at Tufano's Vernon Park Tap, 1073 West Vernon Park Place (near UIC)
Tuesday, March 5 Gene Siskel Film Center tour and presentation on "When Hollywood Comes to Chicago" featuring speakers: Joseph Amari, of the IL Film Office, and Arnie Bernstein, author of Holly wood by Lake Michigan: 100 years of Chicago and the Movies. CTPA Directory distribution.
Saturday, March 16 Full day Annual Education Event: Sponsored by In the Loop Chicago. Theme: "Making the 'A' List - A DMC's Wish List"
Tuesday, April 30 Art Institute of Chicago, tours the collections led by CTPA Certified Guides
Thursday, June 27 Museum of Science and Industry, sneak preview of The New  Exhibition
Monday, June 30 Come See the New Cité (restaurant) on the 70th floor of Lake Point Towers, refreshments provided, cash bar
Thursday, July 11 Board Meeting prior to regular meeting at the Adler Planetarium
Thursday, July 11 Adler Planetarium, See the new SkyShow "Sky Watchers of Africa," enjoy a guided tour "Bringing the Heavens to Earth: Cultural Astronomies Around the World," and (optionally) stay on to listen to Latin music or dance at Luna Cabana
Wednesday, September 4 Lincoln Park Conservatory, a tour of the botanic collections by horticulturist Steve Meyer and a presentation by park historian Julia Bachrach.
Thursday, October 3 Garfield Park Conservatory with private tour of the glass exhibit, "Chihuly in the Park: A Garden of Glass." Tours led by park historian Julia Bachrach and the curator of the collections, Dr. Thomas Antonio. CTPA Nominations
Wednesday, October 16 Tour of the Interior of Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece, Robie House, and the nearby Oriental Institute
Wednesday, October 30 "Tracking Your Income and Expenses: A Primer for Tour Guides" and "Independent Contractor or Employee?" (presented by Wilhelm Franz, CPA and CTG, and Donna Primas, CTG)
Tuesday, November 19 Museum of Science & Industry, The Great Train Story

2003  
Wednesday, January 8 Park District Fieldhouse, annual business meeting
Tuesday, February 25 Sears Tower Sky Deck Orientation, including refreshments
Tuesday, March 11 Park District Fieldhouse, "All About Certification" & 2003 CTPA Directory Distribution
Tuesday, April 15 Family Style Dinner w/Cash Bar at Joey Buona's Pizzeria Grille
Saturday, May 3 Annual Educational Event: "Focus on Safety," sponsored by Accenting Chicago Events & Tours, presented by Esther Banike, CTG; and Donna Primas, CTG
Wednesday, May 21 Chicago From The Lake - Complimentary Lake Michigan Cruise
Tuesday, June 24 Visit to the Polish American Museum - an after hours private tour, followed by optional (fee) dinner at Red Apple, a Polish restaurant
Monday, July 14 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting, "Show & Tell: Getting to Know You" including "CTPA Member Bingo"
Tuesday, August 26 Board Meeting at Lisle Library
Monday, September 29 Northwestern Memorial Hospital's new facilities - a tour of the latest additions to the NU Streeterville complex
Tuesday, October 7 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting - "Cross-Cultural Communication & Diversity Issues," presented by Donna Primas, CTG
Tuesday, November 11 Marshall Field's Holiday Party & Tour, with complimentary wine and appetizers

2004  
Tuesday, January 6 Board Meeting at Joey Buona's Pizzeria Grill (prior to general meeting)
Tuesday, January 6 Park District Fieldhouse, general meeting presentation about health insurance for Independent contractors/tour guides with a presentation by the Alliance for Affordable Services
Tuesday, February 24 Thyme Restaurant networking cocktail party, hosted by chef/owner John Bubala.  CTPA Bylaws changes vote passed.
Friday, February 27 Board Meeting at Lisle Library
Wednesday, March 17 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting, 2004 CTPA Directory Distribution & discussion on "Terms of Employment"
Thursday, March 25 &
Tuesday, March 30
Field of Natural History Museum, Special Member Preview: Splendors of China: the Forbidden City
Saturday, April 17 Annual Educational Event: "Wars In Chicago," including the Elks Memorial, organized by Sherry Meyer, CTG, with special appearance and lecture by author Arnie Bernstein
Tuesday, May 11 Complimentary buffet dinner hosted by the Sears Tower Skydeck in their special party/banquet space.  Ursula Jacobius, CTG, named as an Honorary CTPA Member for life.
Tuesday, May 25 Complimentary cocktail party and meal provided by Giordano's Pizza at two of their Loop locations.  Walking tours between the locales given by CTPA members Herb Eiseman, CTG, and Michael Corcoran, CTG.
June 2, 8, 17 & 21 The CTPA Certification Test was updated at several committee meetings held at a variety of member homes (Jacobius, Brumund, Livingston & Mandel hosts respectively).
Tuesday, June 15 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting. HawkGlides, Inc. (IIT student group) demonstrated the futuristic Segway Human Transporter, now being used to give "gliding" tours in several cities of the world.
Tuesday, June 24 Everything You Want to Read About Chicago: CTPA & Claremont Press Book Fair hosted at the publishing company's offices by Sharon Woodhouse, the founder of Lake Claremont. Optional dinner immediately following at Rockwell's Neighborhood Grill
Monday, July 12 Private, after-hours tour of the Hellenic Museum & Cultural Center with an optional dinner immediately following at the Greek Islands Restaurant.
Sunday August 1 &
Thursday August 5
90-minute Tours of Millennium Park, led by architect Mary Beth Herr, Director of Special Projects for the City of Chicago. Optional pre-tour picnics in the park.
Tuesday, September 21 Appetizers, wine and an evening of comedy hosted by the Improv Kitchen, a unique dinner-theater venue. CTPA Officer Nominations were opened using their "virtual" TV technology.
Thursday, September 23 IIT Campus Tour including the new McCormick Tribune Campus Center and State Street Village dormitories. Officer Nominations continued.
Tuesday, October 5 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting. Two speakers: Brian Read, Columbia College professor and photographer of nearly all the faces used in the Crown Fountain, and Elaine Coorens, author of a new book on the Wicker Park Neighborhood. Nominations Closed.
Tuesday, October 19 &
Thursday, October 28
Special Member Preview including docent-led tours of the Field Museum of Natural History special exhibit on Machu Picchu: Unveiling the Mystery of the Incas.
Monday, November 22 &
Tuesday, November 23
Special Member Preview (complimentary entrance) to the Field Museum of Natural History special exhibit on Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years
Tuesday, November 16 Holiday Party with a complimentary meal and wine hosted by The Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant.
November Mail-in vote for CTPA officers to serve February 2005 through January 2007

2005  
Wednesday, January 12 Board Meeting at Northwestern Hospital Cafeteria prior to the general meeting
Wednesday, January 12 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting. Introduction of new officers, farewell to retiring officers, and "Places with Stories" presentations.
Wednesday, February 23 Familiarization trip to the John G. Shedd Aquarium
Tuesday, March 22 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting, 2005 CTPA Directory Distribution and a panel discussion, "Touring Millennium Park: What Works?"
Tuesday, March 29 Spotlight Event: hosted by Capi's Italian Kitchen on Navy Pier
Saturday, April 9 Annual Education Event - Pilsen. A full day tour with lunch, exploring the history and resources of this ethnic neighborhood.
Tuesday, June 14 Pre-Meeting Special Session: Demystifying (Questions and Answers about) the CTPA Certified Tour-Guide Test, Northwestern Hospital Cafeteria
Tuesday, June 14 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting. "Places with Stories" presentations continued from the January meeting plus a recap of the WFTGA Conference in Australia (attended by two CTPA members).
Wednesday, July 20 Special Session: CTPA Certified Tour-Guide Slide Test Study at Giordano's Pizza
Tuesday, July 26 Hosted reception and tour of the Chicago Federal Reserve Bank Visitor's Center.
Sunday, August 21 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" Chinatown Walking Tour with CTPA Candidate Member Z.J. Tong. Optional lunch at Lao Sze Chuan Restaurant.
Tuesday, August 30 A Dog Day Afternoon on the Calumet: Wolf Lake and Pullman. With visits to Wolf Lake State Park, The Historic Pullman Foundation, The Hotel Florence and Pullman State Historic Site (the old factory).
Thursday, September 8 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" Beyond Streeterville Familiarization Tour with CTPA Candidate Member Phoebe Medow.
Thursday, September 15 Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple Restoration Foundation Tourism Appreciation Night in Oak Park, IL.
Saturday, September 24 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" Graceland Cemetery walking tour with CTPA Candidate Member Albert Walavich.
Wednesday, October 5 Board Meeting at the home of CTPA Secretary Gail Gill.
Wednesday, October 5 Park District Fieldhouse quarterly meeting and presentation: "Building on the Basics: Creating a Firm Foundation."
Friday, October 21 &
Tuesday, October 25
Special Member preview and complimentary entrance into "Pompeii: Stories of an Eruption" at the Field Museum of Natural History.
Monday, November 7 Fall Holiday Party at Bubba Gump's Shrimp Company.
Tuesday, November 15 Fall Reception in the Walnut Room hosted by Marshall Field's Department Store.

2006  
Wednesday, January 11 Board Meeting, Water Tower Pump Station
Wednesday, January 11 Park District Fieldhouse, general meeting & "To Tell the Truth"
Tuesday, February 28 Mardi Grs Celebration at the Hilton Garden of Hoffman Estates
Tuesday, March 14 &
Wednesday, March 15
Special Field Museum Previews - "Evolving Planet" & "The Auschwitz Album: The Story of a Transport"
Tuesday, March 21 Park District Fieldhouse, 2006 Directory Distribution plus member "Show & Tell"
Saturday, March 25 Annual Education Day Trip To Springfield, IL
Tuesday, April 4;
Friday, April 14;
Sunday, April 16
Complimentary entrance to a Blue Man Group performance
Thursday, April 6 Tourism Industry Open House breakfast at the McCormick Tribune Freedom Center
Tuesday, April 6 &
Wednesday, April 7
Invitation to see "Back of the Throat," a complimentary play performance at the Silk Road Theater
Tuesday, April 11 Reception/Open House to celebrate the opening of the Silk Road Theater
Thursday, April 20 Spring "Tour Season Kick-off" Dessert Reception at Marshall Field's
Tuesday, April 25 &
Thursday, April 27
Shedd Aquarium Special Preview of "Lizards & the Komodo King"
Thursday, May 11 Tour Group Information Meeting at the McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum
Thursday, May 25 Dinner Cruise aboard the Mystic Blue
Tuesday, May 30 Field Museum Special Preview of "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs"
Wednesday, May 31 Sears Tower Skydeck Orientation and Dinner
Monday, June 5 Field Museum Special Preview of "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs"
Tuesday, June 6 Park District Fieldhouse, general meeting - "Tricks of the Trade"
Friday, June 23 Orientation and a special screening of "Deep Sea 3D" at the Navy Pier IMAX Theater
Thursday, July 6 CTPA Board Meeting at the Chicago Cultural Center
Wednesday, August 2 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" walking tour of Little Italy by Judith Randall, CTG
Wednesday, August 16 &
Thursday, August 17
Field Museum special entrance to a new exhibit on Inuits
Saturday, August 19 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" waling tour of "The Glen," the revamped Glenview Air Force Base, by Howard Silver, CTG
Tuesday, September 12 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" walking tour of Uptown with Candidtate Guide Albert Walavich
Tuesday, September 12 Chicago Federal Reserve Bank tourism networking event
Tuesday, September 19 &
Wednesday, September 20
Field Museum special entrance to a new exhibit on Genetics
Tuesday, September 26 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" walking tour of the downdown Pedway system with Candidate Guide Phoebe Medow
Tuesday, September 26 Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple Open House for Tourism and Hospitality Professionals
Wednesday, October 11 Park District Fieldhouse, general meeting
November CTPA Officer Elections (by mail)

2007  
January Dues deadline is January 31 each year!
Wednesday, January 17 Board Meeting followed by Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib, Author's Presentation by Candidate Guide William R. Host and Brooke Ahne Portmann about Early Chicago Hotels.
January 22 - 26 WFTGA 12th Biennial conference in Cairo, Egypt - 12 members and guests from Chicago attended!
Monday, March 19 Directory assembly followed by a Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib - Directory Distribution and reports of the WFTGA Conference in Cairo, Egypt.
Wednesday, March 28 &
Thursday, March 29
Special Field Museum Previews - Treasures of the Titans
Tuesday, April 24 Special Field Museum Previews - Dinosaurs-Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries
Wednesday, May 2 New Member Orientation "Fireside Chat" with CTPA President Donna Primas, CTG
Tuesday, May 29 Lecture and tour of the Field Museum's Egyptology collections with visiting Egyptian guide, Aladdin Khalifa, the current WFTGA Vice President.
Tuesday, May 29 Reception at Buca di Beppo to socialize with guest lecturer, Aladdin Khalifa.
Wednesday, June 6 Board Meeting followed by a Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib - "I want to know" interactive learning.
Tuesday, June 12 McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum tour guide open house.
Tuesday, June 26 &
Wednesday June 27
Field Museum Special Previews - Darwin
Friday, July 13 Certification Test study session.
July 19 - 22 NFTGA-USA Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana - six CTPA members attended.
Wednesday, July 25 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" walking tour of the Chicago Theater District led by Candidate Guide Chuck Sussman.
Thursday, August 23 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" River Walk Tour by Candidate Guide Hy Speck
Tuesday, September 11 The Federal Reserve Bank Money Museum annual reception and tour
Monday, October 1 Board Meeting followed by Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib - "Show and Tell."
Wednesday, November 7 &
Thursday, November 8
Field Museum Special Previews-Maps: Finding Our Place in the World
Wednesday, November 14 Macy's Holiday Reception in the Walnut Room
Monday, December 10 Holiday Party at Lawry's The Prime Rib
Tuesday, December 20 Griffin Funeral Home Tour to learn about Chicago's Camp Douglas (a Civil War internment camp), plus a tour of the nearby Bronzeville Visitors' Center.

2008  
Tuesday, January 15 Routing test for certification of guides; Board Meeting
Thursday, January 31 Dues deadline is January 31 each year!
Thursday, February 7 Museum of Science and Industry - Special OmniMax film screening of Dinosaurs 3D
Thursday, February 21 International Tourist Guide Day, an annual event sponsored by the WFTGA
Tuesday, March 4 Friends of Historic 2nd Presbyterian Church Reception and tour
Monday, March 10 Lake Claremont Press Open House Event
Wednesday, March 26 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's, including 2008 Directory Distribution and a presentation about "Green (ecologically friendly) Chicago" by Art Myren, CTG
Sunday, April 27 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" tour of the South Loop and Bronzeville, conducted by Dennis McClendon CTG and Candidate Guide Cheryl Colbert.
Tuesday, May 27 Reception and tour of the newly renovated and reopened Blackstone Marriott Renaissance Hotel
Monday, June 16 &
Tuesday June 17
Study sessions for the CTPA Certified Tour Guide test, led by Donna Primas CTG.
Monday, June 16 Quarterly Meeting - "Frankly Speaking," a discussion of two books about Frank Lloyd Wright: "Loving Frank" by Nancy Horan and "Wright 3" by Blue Balliet. Program leaders: Holly Jensen and Sharon Sylvester CTG, with contributions by Susie Schemmel CTG.
Wednesday, June 18 Special visit and virtual tour of the White City (the 1893 Columbian Exposition) at the Museum of Science and Industry.
Wednesday, July 16 &
Thursday, July 17
Field Museum of Natural History special entrance to three exhibits: Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters, plus Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids and Celebrating Women.
Wednesday, August 27 A full day (paid) tour to Frank Lloyd Wright designed Muirhead Farmhouse and other attractions in the north and west suburbs of Chicago.
Thursday, September 4 Media tour of The Hancock Tower and The 95th.
Tuesday, September 16 The Federal Reserve Bank Money Museum annual reception and tour
Tuesday, October 7 Quarterly Meeting - Dr. Dennis Cremin speaks about "Grant Park: From Lakeshore to Landfill to Millennium Park"
Wednesday, October 22 "Increase Your Revenue: Use Guide Knowledge to Prepare PowerPoint Presentations" by Jerry O'Connor CTG
November In 2008, ballots for the election of CTPA officers to serve from February 1, 2009 until January 31, 2011 will be mailed and counted.
Wednesday, November 5 &
Thursday, November 6
Field Museum of Natural History special entrance to Aztecs exhibit
Friday, November 7 Annual Educational Day: An all day Frank Lloyd Wright themed Field Trip to the Racine area of Wisconsin aboard a luxury motorcoach. Sponsored by CTPA Associate Member About Tours.
December In this election year (2008), results will be announced by mail.
Monday, December 8 Holiday Party at Lawry's

2009  
Tuesday, January 13 Tour Guide Certification Test, Part II- The Routing Test given.
Monday, January 19 Board Meeting
Monday, January 19 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. A Presentation by Mark Mitten, Chief Brand Officer for Chicago 2016 Olympics Committee, plus "Preparing for the Certified Tour Guide Test," oral/slide test demonstrations by four members.
Tuesday, March 3 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. 2009 CTPA Directory distribution, plus a report on the World Federation of Tourist Guide Assns. Biennial conference (in January in Bali, Indonesia), attended by Candidate Guides Ana Clara Campbell & Tom Schuster. Also a discussion on "Is it time for the CTPA to consider a Code of Ethics/Conduct?"
Wednesday, March 4 &
Wednesday, March 11
Spertus Museum at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies - building and special exhibit tours.
Tuesday, March 10 The Field Museum of Natural History special entrance to "Real Pirates The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship"
Friday, April 3 Certification Study Session
Tuesday, May 5 Certification Study Session
Monday, May 18 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" Bohemian National Cemetery with Al Walavich
Tuesday, June 2 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" The Best of Chinatown with Z.J. Tong
Tuesday, June 4 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. "How to Use and Save Your Voice" by CTPA Candidate Member and Speech Pathologist Pam Powell and "Amplification devices as alternative Solutions" by Greg Borzo, Candidate Guide.
Sunday, June 7 Certification Study Session
Wednesday, June 10 Certification Study Session
Friday, June 26 "Pilsen...From Bohemian Beginnings to the Arts of the Latino," a docent led tour of the National Museum of Mexican Art plus a neighborhood walking tour.
Tuesday, June 30 Certification Part 1 - The Written Test
Tuesday, August 4 The Field Museum of Natural History special entrance "Water" plus admission to "Dinosaurs Alive in 3D"
Wednesday, August 12 Tour of the Merchandise Mart and the special "Dream Home" exhibit lead by one of the interior designers.
Friday, August 21 Visits to The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie, IL, and The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston with special docent tours at each.
Tuesday, September 15 The Federal Reserve Bank Money Museum annual reception and tour
Wednesday, September 16 Special Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. "The Legacy of the Plan of Chicago" presented by cartographer, Dennis McClendon CTG.
Monday, October 5 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. A transportation themed evening presented by two CTPA members who are authors! Greg Borzo spoke about "Chicago's Greatest Mover & Shaker: 10 things every guide needs to know about the 'L'" and Dave Clark gave insight on "Chicago: Where the Road Begins."
Thursday, October 29 &
Monday, November 9
The Field Museum of Natural History special entrance to "The Nature of Diamonds."
Thursday, November 5 "Hurry Up Here," a CTPA member reception at The John Hancock Observatory to enjoy the view and hand-held, multi-media electronic tour.
Friday, November 6 &
Friday, November 13
Special entrance and docent guided tour of the renovated Shedd Aquarium and Oceanarium, plus entrance to two shows: "Fantasea" and a 4-D movie.
Thursday, November 12 Discounted tickets offered to take the Chicago Film Tour.
Thursday, November 12 Macy's annual Holiday Reception for Tour Guides
Monday, December 7 Holiday Party at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant.

2010  
Monday, January 11 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. "How Chicago is Marketed to the World" presented by Patrick Steffes, Manager of Tourism Sales and Operations at the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau. Plus, "When is a Chicago City Highlights Tour, NOT a highlights tour?"
February (each year) International Tourist Guide Day, an annual event sponsored by the WFTGA
February 22-26 The National Federation of Tourist Guide Assns.-USA (NFTGA) biennial meeting, called "Sea Change 2010: Meeting the Needs of Tomorrow's Tourist" aboard the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's (RCCL) Majesty of the Seas
Thursday, March 18 The Union League Club: A tour of the building and art collection by CTPA member Marsha Goldstein, plus a buffet lunch (fee).
Wednesday, March 24 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Directory Distribution & a presentation about the 1893 Columbian Exposition, including memorabilia from the collection of Albert Walavich.
Wednesday, April 7 Visits to and docent led tour of the Smart Museum of Art & the Oriental Institute, both on the campus of the University of Chicago. Optional lunch at the Café at the Smart Museum before the visits.
Friday, April 16 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
Monday, May 24 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
Monday, June 7 The Certified Tour Guide Test - Part I/Written Test given downtown Chicago.
Thursday, June 17 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Phil Ranstrom, independent documentary filmmaker, presents his 2007 film "Cheat you Fair, The Story of Maxwell Street" and photographer/author Ken Derry presents information and images from his book "Chicago: A View from the Top."
Thursday, June 24 "Show Us Your Neighborhood Tour" a walking tour through Old Town with Diane Gonzales, with an optional visit to the Chicago History Museum.
July Members joining after July 1st pay half price annual dues
Thursday, July 22 &
Monday, July 26
Complimentary entrance to visit the Field Museum to see exhibits celebrating the 10 year anniversary of Sue ("Robo Sue - The T. Rex Experience" and a 3D Adventure Film "Waking the T. Rex 3D: The Story of Sue"). Also view "Mammoths & Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age" and "Climate Change."
Thursday, July 22 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
Monday, July 26 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
Thursday, August 19 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
Tuesday, August 31 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test
October In an election year (2012), nominations for Officers are due
Thursday, October 7 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Hy Speck will present "Movers and Shakers of Chicago" & Brian Muir will present "Living Above the Store: The Development of Marina City."
November Ballots need to be mailed, received & counted by the end of the month
Thursday, November 4 CTPA Board Meeting
Friday, November 5 Complimentary entrance to visit The Field Museum to see "Gold".
Monday, December 6 Holiday Party downstairs in the Main Dining Room of Lawry's Prime Rib
December Election results are announced by mail.

2011  
Monday, January 10 Study session for Certified Tour Guide Test Part 1, Written Test
Monday, January 10 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant, "Cartographic Tales of Chicago," by professional map maker Dennis McClendon CTG.
Wednesday, January 19 Study session for Certified Tour Guide Test Part 2 , Slides/Commentary
Monday, January 24 CTPA Part II - Slide Test (given by appointment)
Tuesday, January 25 Tour Guide Orientation of the Art Institute of Chicago, led by Linda Fox CTG and Judy White CTG.
Sunday, January 30 -
Friday, February 4
The World Federation of Tourist Guide Assns. biennial meeting - "Culture as a Unifying Guide" in Tallinn, Estonia
Monday, January 31 Calendar year 2011 membership dues payment deadline!
Tuesday, February 1 Visit the Board of Trade at the opening bell, then tour the new J. W. Marriott Hotel, located in an historic renovated bank building.
February (each year) International Tourist Guide Day, an annual event sponsored by WFTGA
Friday, February 10 Complimentary entrance to the Field Museum to take an extensive tour of the highlights of the collection given by two museum docents.
Tuesday, February 15 CTPA Certified Tour Guide Test Part 3 - Routing Test given
Tuesday, February 15 Prairie Avenue Historic Homes: Tours of Glessner House and Clarke House arranged by Bill Tyre of Glessner House.
Thursday, February 24 Complimentary entrance to the new special exhibit "The Horse" at the Field Museum, open February 18 to August 14, 2011.
Thursday, February 24 Secrets of the Smith - a tour of Navy Pier's Smith Museum of Stained Glass with museum curator Rolf Achilles
Wednesday, March 9 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Directory Distribution & a presentation about Louis H. Sullivan by Chicago Historian Tim Samuelson
Friday, March 25 A Sneak Preview of the annual Macy's Spring Flower Show, themed "Towers of Flowers," plus a tour of the historic Marshall Field building's architectural highlights.
Sunday, May 1 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" Tour Hyde Park & Keck plus KAM Isaiah Israel Synagogue given by Candidate Member Enid Rieser.
Monday, May 2 A private tour of the Jane Addams Hull House Museum.
Wednesday, June 8 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Jacob Kaplan, Editor of "Forgotten Chicago" introduces CTPA members to their website and research www.forgottenchicago.com
July Members joining after July 1st pay half price annual dues
Thursday, July 7 Complimentary entrance to the new special exhibit "Whales: Giants of the Deep" at the Field Museum.
Monday, August 29 Study Session for the Certified Tour Guide Part I Written Test
Tuesday, September 6 Complimentary entrance to the new special exhibit "Ground Zero 360˚" at the Field Museum, open Friday, September 2, 2011-Sunday, January 1, 2012.
Monday, September 12 &
Monday, September 19
CTPA Certified Tour Guide Test - Part I: The Written Test. (Given at downtown and suburban locations by appointment.)
Thursday, September 22 "Show Us Your Neighborhood" tour of Old Town, given by Candidate Member Diane Gonzalez.
Monday, October 10 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test - Part II: The Slide Test.
Wednesday, October 12 Special early morning entrance to the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum for a special tour and bridge lift viewing.
Wednesday, October 12 Quarterly Meeting at Lawry's The Prime Rib Restaurant. Herb Eiseman CTG "The Jewish Princes of State Street".
Tuesday, November 8 Complimentary entrance to the new special exhibit "Chocolate: Around the World" at the Field Museum, October 5, 2011 to January 8, 2012.
Tuesday, November 8 Study session for the Certified Tour Guide Test - Part II: The Slide Test.
Monday, November 14 Part II: The Slide Test given. (This is the only date for 2011.)
December Holiday Party

*Meetings known at time of printing. All future dates are subject to change. Additional programs are added throughout the year and all programs are events are announced via mailings & e-mails.