The pasta dinner on Sun. June 2 turned out to be an exceptionally wonderful afternoon. Many of our friends were first time attendees, and while they were familiar with the foundation's goals and the nature our pasta dinner meetings, they marveled at the depth of musical talent we presented and the delicious meal catered by Mista restaurant.

The program began with the presentation of two $500 music scholarships from the Foundation to the Chicago Federation of Musicians in memory of two great musicians who played for many of our productions, Rick Frigo and Loren Binford. And we were honored that the Federation President and Vice President, Gary Matt and Terryl Jares attended and spoke to our audience.

We were pleased to present 15 violinists from the music ensemble "Four Strings Attached",who ranged in age from 5 to 12 years old. We also introduced another new performer to our stage, singer Gianna Capra and welcomed back vocalist Gretta Pope who has become an audience favorite. Each performance melded in perfectly with our own Master of ceremony and in house baritone, Anthony Rago. All were masterly backed up by the Frank Caruso Trio.

Retired Sun Times columnist, Stella Foster, attended and promised to come back to enjoy another great afternoon of food music and friendship, to celebrate the many contributions to the performing arts.

WE HOPE YOU'LL RESERVE SUNDAY JULY 28, 2013 FOR ANOTHER RELAXING PERFORMANCE.