Michelle Obama splits time in Chicago between politics, fun

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Michelle Obama and her daughters were in Chicago Thursday, where the first lady split her time between politics and fun.

It's been a year since the first lady was in Chicago. Thursday's visit began with a Democratic National Committee fundraiser with more than 100 people at a Gold Coast hotel. She asked donors to dig deep and help give kids a chance in Chicago's violent neighborhoods.

"She's so proud of this city and proud of all the support that Chicago's given her over the years, her and her husband, but recognizes that we face a lot of challenges here, you know, that we're robbing children of their opportunity to grow," said Linda Havlin, Democratic donor.

Donors paid $500 to $20,000 and left with a memento reflecting Obama's love of gardening and planting seeds of hope. Her political message?

"She spoke about the mid-term elections mostly, and to put our money where our mouth is. And that the change is gonna come now," said Melissa Colombo, Democratic donor.

As immigration supporters held a candlelight vigil in front of the Obama's Kenwood home, the first lady dined at Sunda in River North, taking a moment to snap a picture with owner Billy Dec.

And then they were off, reportedly with her daughters and friends to watch the Beyonce - Jay-Z concert at Soldier Field.

The first lady and her daughters are expected to spend the night at their Kenwood home Thursday night.