The past couple weeks have featured some interesting real estate headlines. For example, there are rumors of the Mars mansion in River Forest being torn down and strides have been taken to build a 20-story apartment complex in downtown Oak Park. While I think of myself as a forward-thinking individual, I found these two pieces of news troublesome.
Character is an important part of not just major cities, but smaller municipalities like the Villages of Oak Park and River Forest. Historic buildings, landmarks and architectural design are three things that make up the character of OPRF. I only speak for myself, but it will be sad to see the Mars mansion torn down, and it might take some time to get used to the erection of a 20-story building on Harlem & Lake. Nonetheless, I refuse to allow myself to become a curmudgeon, and I stand by the decisions of the community.
As we do every Friday, here is a glimpse of what’s happening in the area this weekend. The forecast calls for sunshine Friday and some rain Saturday/Sunday, so enjoy the sunshine while we have it.
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Hallapalooza at Val’s halla Records
Val’s halla Records, located at 239 Harrison St. in Oak Park, is celebrating its 43rd anniversary with Hallapalooza on Saturday and Sunday. There will be live music, refreshments and a storewide sale including 20% off all used records and 10% off new records. For more information, call the store at 708-524-1004.
Forest Park’s “No Glove Invitational Softball Tournament”
The Park District of Forest Park will host a 16-inch softball tournament this weekend. “Come out and see the most prestigious and competitive 16-inch Softball Tournament in the Chicagoland Area. There will be softball, food, beer, pop, and fun for the entire family,” according to the Park District website. For more information, visit http://www.pdofp.org/events/index.php.
Oak Park Art League presents Off the Grid abstract exhibit
The Oak Park Art League’s July abstract exhibition is one of the biggest shows of the year. In 2014, the historic Carriage House Gallery featured 90 works by artists from all over Chicagoland and the Art League anticipates a similar draw in 2015. The exhibit is open during gallery hours. The Oak Park Art League is located at 720 Chicago Ave. For more information, visit http://www.oakparkartleague.org/grid-exhibit/.
Cocktails & Comedy at The Day Nursery
The historic Day Nursery in Oak Park (1139 Randolph) will host Cocktails & Comedy on Saturday from 7-11 p.m. Enjoy Haymarket beer on tap, Goose Island bottles, wine, and an herb-infused vodka cocktail while witnessing four comedic acts. Admission is $60. For more information, read the full article here.
Oak Park Festival Theatre’s “Two Gentlemen of Verona”
“Two Gentlemen of Verona” is set in the over-the-top, youth-centric 1980’s world of John Hughes and offers everything you could want in a romantic comedy: moony and misguided guys, smart and resourceful gals, a road trip, a funny bit with a dog and, of course, plenty of cross-dressing. Shakespeare’s classic is performed outdoors through August 22. Show times: Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. $27-Seniors, $22-Adults, $15-Students, Children under 12 & dogs are free.
