Legendary Chicago Cultural Leader Steps Down

(1-20-2011) Lois Weisberg is the first flesh-and-bones Chicagoan to be named a “Legendary Landmark” by Illinois's Landmarks Preservation Council. During and before her tenure as Commissioner of Cultural Affairs, she has been responsible for all manner of popular Chicago public arts programs, including the Chicago Cultural Center, Gallery 37, and numerous annual festivals. Now, at age 85, Weisberg is stepping down amidst controversy over Major Richard M. Daley's proposal to merge her office, the Department of Cultural Affairs with the Major's Office of Special Events. The decision, identified as the necessary result of necessary budget cuts, has Weisberg deeply concerned about the privatization of public arts events and the ability of Chicago leadership to continue bringing art to the public (something they have done extraordinarily well for years, largely due to Weisberg's leadership).

Read Rick Kogan's story for the Chicago Tribune here.