Steno in the City Takes Chicago: A Summer Celebration of Unity, Elegance & Empowerment
Last Friday, Steno in the City kicked off summer in stunning fashion with a networking event that brought the court reporting and captioning community together for a great time. Hosted at The Metropolitan on the 67th floor of the iconic Willis (Sears) Tower, attendees gathered high above Chicago’s skyline to celebrate, connect, and inspire. The setting was nothing short of extraordinary — a soft summer breeze drifting through the skyline as the sun cast golden hues across the cityscape. Guests arrived to signature Steno in the City elegance, greeted at the entrance by an exquisite Strolling Champagne Lady offering flutes of champagne to mark the start of the evening. As they entered the grand space, attendees were instantly captivated by sweeping, floor-to-ceiling views of downtown Chicago, glowing in the warm light of sunset. Adding a touch of enchantment, violinist Windy Indy moved gracefully throughout the venue, her soulful melodies echoing through the room. Her live performance infused the evening with emotion, elevating the atmosphere and setting a refined, welcoming tone for a night built on connection, celebration, and community. Food, Flavor, and Flair The evening featured a full bar and a curated menu that was nothing short of top-tier. Passed hors d’oeuvres, a nice spread of deviled eggs, charcuterie board, flatbreads, pizza, and bacon-wrapped dates, diced fruits, mini sweets, complemented the chic atmosphere. But the highlight? A live pasta station where the chef customized dishes on demand — complete with sizzling fire shows and dramatic flair. From filet sliders to short ribs, decadent desserts, and a spread that blended comfort and class, the food experience reflected the care and detail Shaunise Day is known for. It was an experience, not just a meal. Community in Action The presence of the Illinois Court Reporters Association Board added depth to the event, allowing attendees to discuss local advocacy, membership, and state initiatives — all while enjoying the camaraderie of colleagues in a relaxed, celebratory setting. This is what unity in our profession looks like — genuine, joyful, and forward-moving. Stenograph was also in the building, sharing the latest about their NexGen writer and offering insight during their own Signature Event weekend in Chicago. Collaboration at its finest. A Night of Music, Networking & Connection The evening wouldn’t have been complete without a DJ, spinning smooth, vibrant tunes that kept energy high and the dance floor warm. Attendees mixed and mingled — from seasoned reporters to students, firm owners, and supporters — exchanging ideas, encouragement, and laughter. New friendships formed. Old ones were reignited. Purpose Beyond the Party Each Steno in the City event carries heart, and this one was no different. From supporting students facing personal challenges — including one bravely navigating a cancer diagnosis — to helping colleagues break isolation and reconnect, this evening offered more than networking. It offered healing. “You can’t put a price tag on the power of support, encouragement, and showing up for each other.” – Shaunise Day Thank You to Our Sponsors We are deeply grateful to the sponsors who made this unforgettable night possible: Silver Sponsors: – Urlaub & Associates – Lexitas – Greg Weiland & Rob Karpinski Bronze Sponsors: – SPS Litigation Services – Worldwide Lit Entertainment & Services: – DJ Services: Planet Depo – Violinist: Sponsored by Stenograph – Overflow Sponsor: Shaunise Day Jewel Sponsors: Lorie Kennedy, Tracy Barksdale, Kerry Murphy, Cinta Corbin, Richael Silvia, Valerie Flora, Rhonda Hall-Breuwet, Jo Gayle, Tina Dillion, Sandy Narup, Karen Tyler, Allie Hall, Amy Doman, Paul O’Connor and our three Anonymous sponsors. Without your generosity and participation, none of this would be possible. Stevie & Steno: Gone but not forgotten This weekend held deep meaning for founder Shaunise Day. It marked the birthday of her late little brother, who tragically passed away two years ago. He was a pedestrian hit by a car. Rather than mourn in silence, she chose to honor him through celebration, light, and love — spreading joy across the city he never got to see. Chicago, thank you for your warmth and hospitality. We can’t wait to return and make more magic. Until next time — stay inspired, stay united, and stay fearless. Here’s What Your Fellow Stenographers Are Saying About the Event in Chicago! We hope you can make the next one if you missed out! “After hosting a few happy hours for court reporters here in Illinois, I kind of had a certain expectation of what I thought the Steno in the City Networking Mixer in Chicago would be like. Steno in the City exceeded those expectations. The venue was beautiful. The views were stunning. And what made this event truly extraordinary was the time, effort, and attention to detail that went into it. Shaunise surprised us with a live violinist! There was even a lady whose dress held champagne glasses! It was more than just a chance to grab a drink and network — it was truly an experience. From start to finish, I felt appreciated, valued, and celebrated. If you haven’t attended a Steno in the City event, you are truly missing out. I cannot recommend it enough — please make it to the next one! Amazing job, Steno in the City.” Kiristie Anderson, CSR This Steno in the City event was such a perfect way to kick off a weekend with our steno friends. It was clear that Shaunice had carefully considered every detail so that each guest – whether a brand-new professional or someone who has spent decades as a stenographer – felt welcomed, included, and entertained. And the food! There were so many delicious options! This was my first SITC event, but it won’t be my last! Amy Doman, RDR, CRR, CCR (MO), CSR (CA, IL, TX, WA) The food, drinks, and venue were all perfect and thoughtfully planned. It was a great opportunity to connect with other attendees and meet more people in the court reporting community. Thank you so much for organizing the event and for all that you do for the