September 23, 2026 - 7 pm
Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St, IL
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.

Honoring Sara Janz

Sara Janz passed away on Jan 1, 2025 at the age of 29. The daughter of retired ABC-7 traffic/feature reporter Roz Varon, Sara followed in her mom’s footsteps with tireless efforts on behalf of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Donations can be made to the Foundation of the CMW Chapter of NATAS, Inc. to support a scholarship in her name, entitled the Sara Janz "Take Your Shot" Memorial Scholarship.

The Foundation is the charitable arm of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter and is a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Held on Saturday, November 2, 2024

66th Chicago/Midwest Emmy® Awards Ceremony

Hosted by Chris Witaske
from The Bear

Red Carpet Pre-Show

Hosted by NBC's Cortney Hall
and Matt Rodrigues from Chicago Today

66th Chicago/Midwest Emmy® Winner Interviews

Hosted by Joshua Short from WNDU
and Amanda Vinicky from WTTW

Student Production Awards

College Awards Announcement
Hosted by WCIU's Afua Owusu

WINNER PDFs

REGIONAL EMMY® STATUETTE

& COMMEMORATIVE AWARDS