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When the Tribune article about OperaGram.com® was published, I received an inquiry about performing at a financial institution’s outreach program. I arrived at Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly (http://www.littlebrotherschicago.org) in full Camencota form.

Several members of the financial institution’s team were present at the luncheon, including someone I knew from my Grant Park and initial Lyric Opera days. What a pleasure it was to see and catch up with him!

During the wait before performing, I learned something about Chicago public housing history. While I had known that the initial days of public housing supported low-income families, I had not known that at one point a law had been past to exclude fathers from the residences. Raids were frequently held to see if men were in the apartments of single mother homes. I must find documentation.

The room in which I performed was cheerfully decorated with American flags and red, white and blue ballons. When I was introduced to the luncheon attendees, I got a big laugh for my over-the-top entrance.

I sang a couple of arias and we all sang the American national anthem. Some folks teared up. You know, I expect folk to laugh at me, but am always surprised when they cry. I mean, I look like such a fool! I guess they are either moved by the voice or moved by the fact someone cares for them. Maybe a little of both.

I received a large tip which I used, in turn, to treat my mother to an early dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. It felt good to see her eat and enjoy eating. She’ll be starting chemotherapy soon for stage three colon cancer. I hope the chemo won’t take away her ability to eat and savor food.

I wonder how big the tip would have been if I showed up as “Salami” (derived from Salome) and did the dance of the seven veils! Maybe Charlie Trotters next time, mom ;).