Earth Hour Chicago On Saturday, March 29, 2008, from 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Chicagoans will join together in a collective effort during Earth Hour Chicago 2008 to illuminate the effective impact of even the smallest individual contributions to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse emissions.  For one hour, between 8:00 – 9:00 PM, residents of more than 20 cities around the world are being invited to take part by switching off lights and turning off appliances.  The concept which originated in Sydney Australia in March, 2007 is being embraced by Chicagoans and by participating cities around the world including Bankok, Copenhagen, Melbourne, Manila, Tel Aviv and Toronto.

Kokua Hospitality properties including The Allerton Hotel, Chicago City Centre and The Inn of Chicago are three such businesses that will be hosting soy candlelit (soy candles)gatherings featuring low impact specialty libations including organic beer and eco-tinis complimented by a selection of upscale eco-efficient cold fare, acoustic music by Chris Gelbuda and a healthy dose of ambiance.  It is estimated that the monetary impact of this one hour “lights out” effort at these properties will result in approximately $5000 in energy savings which will be generously donated to the World Wildlife Federation to support the ongoing effort.  While many will choose to enjoy a quiet, lightless moment of tranquility others will choose to paint the town green.  Below are just a few of Chicago’s best:

Avenue M Restaurant and Lounge at the Allerton Hotel is offering an Earth Hour menu prepared without the use of heat or energy. Fabulous offerings and specialty cocktails enjoyed over candlelight are sure to make Earth Hour a memorable experience.  These special items will be available throughout the evening.

InnBar at the Inn of Chicago will host candlelight cocktails from 8:00pm-9:00pm. Join us all night for our highly anticipated Eco-Tini (made with organic vodka and raspberries) and a selection of organic beers. Chris Gelbuda will be performing at 7:00pm, acoustically of course! Soy candles will illuminate the swanky scene provided by Flowers with Feeling.

Winners at the Chicago City Centre is proud to offer a selection of organic beers and spirits to encourage our guests to get in the true spirit of Earth Hour. Soy candles, provided by Flowers with Feeling will again set the mood in an eco-friendly way.

Earth Hour 2008 will begin in Christchurch, New Zealand and will cascade through 14 time zones including participating U.S. cities Phoenix, Atlanta San Francisco and Chicago.  This dramatic and symbolic initiative is yet another step in Chicago’s ongoing commitment to being one of the greenest cities in the nation.  Visit http://www.worldwildlife.org/ or http://www.earthhour.org/ for more information.