North Sider Coordinates 'Meat Your Veterans' Fundraiser

A North Side resident is taking matters into his own hands this Veterans Day, honoring those who have served with a "meat and greet."

Lake View resident Michael Cornfield has coordinated Meat Your Veterans, a Sunday afternoon and evening fundraising event at Will's Northwoods Inn bar, 3030 N. Racine Ave. Although the watering hole is typically commanded by Green Bay Packer fans on Sundays, the team's bye week means Chicagoans are taking over.

Those opting to attend Meat Your Veterans and "enjoy bacon, freedom and helping out those who've helped us," are asked to contribute a suggested $20 donation, said Cornfield, who is a University of Iowa alumnus. The deal includes all-you-can-drink beer, brats and assorted meats. All money raised will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping our returning wounded veterans—even when wounds aren't visible, according to the organization's website.

"I feel very strongly about the WWP and I think we can all agree this organization addresses and important and vital need," Cornfield wrote in the event's invitation.

He is hosting the soiree on behalf of his close friends and family, two of whom served in the United States Marine Corps., he said.

Money will not be accepted from any veterans attending the event. Asked why it's important to give back to our military personnel, Cornfield quoted Bruce Springsteen, saying "We take care of our own."

All are welcome to attend Sunday's Meat Your Veterans event, which kicks off at Will's Northwoods at 4 p.m.