Uncle Remus Founder Celebrates 95th Birthday

Gus and Mary Rickette met a vendor who was trying to sell a sign that a previous customer no longer wanted. The sign read “Uncle Remus,” and the couple knew immediately it was exactly what they wanted to hang over their restaurant door. That was in 1969; and, as they say, the rest is history. Uncle Remus, a fictional character from a collection of African American folktales, has been representing the brand fittingly.

Over the years, the Rickettes laid the groundwork for a legacy of giving by helping thousands of individuals, families, businesses, faith-based institutions and community groups and organizations. This was accomplished through signature initiatives, collaborative programs, events and event sponsorships, education opportunities and training for those presenting a need. Inspiring as they were, they became pioneers in business and philanthropy and were looked upon as role models.

On Saturday, August 14, 2021, that history will be reflected upon and celebrated. Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken and the Rickette Foundation will present a “Gospel Concert Fit for a Legend” celebrating the 95th birthday of Uncle Remus founder Gus W. Rickette. The event will be held at the Kehrein Center of the Arts, 5628 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; concert program starts at 7:00 p.m. Host for the evening is Pastor DeAndre Patterson, Senior Pastor & Chief Servant Destiny Worship Center; Assistant Pastor, Miracle Revival Center COGIC; Radio Personality, WGRB 1390 AM. Musical headliner is gospel artist Anthony Brown & group therapy. Featured performers are Psalmist Cerita Brown; and Pastor Anthony Spencer, One Church Chicago, writer and gospel artist.

Tickets cost: $23 general admission; $95 VIP. Event sponsors are Aetna, Hyatt Hotels, Gift of Hope and Wyn-Win Communications. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities visit the website at www.rickettefoundation.org.

“My parents taught us that it is important to give back and help others,” said Charmaine V. Rickette, president and CEO. “The Uncle Remus brand has been committed to this philosophy the entirety of its 50 years. And, we plan to continue our commitment of compassion and helping others, to growing our business and to supporting other entrepreneurs”

Since being named President/CEO in 1999, Charmaine has made significant achievements and expansion within the business. Uncle Remus Spicy Fried Chicken has locations on the city’s West and South Sides and in the suburbs of Broadview and Bolingbrook, IL. In 2006, the company made history as the first non-national chain restaurant to operate inside the first inner-city location of Wal-Mart, the world’s largest retailer. The Rickette Foundation was recently established to continue the legacy of giving begun by its founders.

 

 

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