E3 Radio Held 12th Annual Purple Tie Affair

The Chicago fundraiser successfully exceeded its $10,000 goal while honoring community achievements.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Cultural

Bold vector editorial illustration of a purple necktie draped over a silver microphone stand, representing a community fundraising event. — E3 Radio's 12th annual Purple Tie Affair in Chicago raised over $10,000 to support community contributions and local programming initiatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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E3 Radio hosted the 12th annual Purple Tie Affair at Sidetrack on October 3. The event surpassed its $10,000 fundraising target through a mix of performances, auctions, and raffles.

Why it matters

The annual affair serves as a key platform for E3 Radio to raise money and recognize individuals for their contributions to the Chicago community.

The 12th annual event brought together donors and supporters to hit a milestone fundraising goal of over $10,000. This follows a long-standing tradition of the event serving as a significant financial resource for the organization.

The players

E3 Radio

This organization is a digital media platform that focuses on amplifying voices and providing curated content to its audience.

Otis Mack

He was the recipient of the Build Your Own Table Award at this year's event.

Mayor Brandon Johnson

He is the current Mayor of Chicago who made a guest appearance at the event.

Frenchie Davis

She is a vocalist and performer who rose to prominence through her appearances on reality television music competitions.

The details

Held at Sidetrack on N. Halsted St., the evening featured performances by Frenchie Davis and Kenyotta, along with a silent auction and raffle. Anna DeShawn and Carter Cavazos led a live contribution rally, while Mayor Brandon Johnson attended the festivities.

The 12th annual Purple Tie Affair took place on Oct. 3, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The success of this fundraiser follows the established pattern of community-led digital media fundraising events seen in major urban centers. Such gatherings demonstrate how digital platforms are increasingly anchoring local civic engagement through hybrid in-person and online models.

Attendees and contributors supported the event through ticketed participation and raffle entries at the Sidetrack venue. The funds raised directly bolster E3 Radio’s ongoing community initiatives and media production.

The takeaway

Events like the Purple Tie Affair highlight the importance of grassroots fundraising in sustaining community-focused media. Readers looking to support local causes can engage with similar upcoming community initiatives to make a tangible impact.