“Lets Make the Cure Contagious” -- Local Movers & Shakers Out to Impact Violence in Chicago

“Let’s Make the Cure Contagious” gala Chairwoman Diane Weinberg (center) and Co-Chairs Jeremy Kaufman (left) and Soma Roy (right). The October 19th event at the Arts Club will honor Ramsey Lewis.

Gala Chair Diane Weinberg comments, “We are a group of citizens who love Chicago and who are trying to positively impact the occurrence of violence in our community. We believe that violence is contagious, and that it can be treated and ultimately cured using a health-based approach. This is the concept behind Cure Violence, an incredibly successful program developed by Dr. Gary Slutkin and used in 28 cities and over 15 countries... and which has just been reinstated in a number of at-risk communities in Chicago. This event will honor the iconic and wonderful Ramsey Lewis - who has been loyal to Chicago and active in our community for over 50 years - and is a great reason to get together!”

A native Chicagoan, Mr. Lewis remains active and continues to give back to his home town. He is artistic director of Jazz at the Ravinia Festival and helped organize Ravinia’s Jazz Mentor Program. He also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Merit School of Music and The Chicago High School for the Arts, and is an Honorary Board member of the Chicago Jazz Orchestra. In 2005, the Ramsey Lewis Foundation was created to help connect at-risk children to the world of music. Lewis still lives in Chicago, the city of his musical roots, along with his lovely wife, Jan. He has seven children, thirteen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

“Let’s Make the Cure Contagious” will be held October 19th at the Arts Club, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. For tickets and information, call 312.355.3027. For information on Cure Violence/Cease Fire, visit www.cureviolence.org