The charming, blond crossing guard you usually see at the corner of Jackson and Desplaines is, in another life, a Forest Park artist. Karen Stuart, who signs her work “Stu-Art,” is shown here working on one of her latest creations, a rain barrel a la Oak Park. You can see more of Karen’s work at the Oak Park Women’s Exchange on south Oak Park Avenue, across from Pan’s. She also accepts commissions.

Have you heard of the traveling shot glass? It has been moving across the nation for about three years and its most recent destination was Forest Park. Loretta Respas showed the glass around town. She is the 71st person to have an adventure with the glass. Who knew such a thing existed?

As it makes its journey across the land, the traveling shot glass accumulates souvenirs and a journal. While in Forest Park, the little glass stopped at Showman’s Rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, and at Goldyburgers. It acquired a hula skirt at Hala-Kahiki Lounge in nearby River Grove, and then took the hula skirt to Pineapple Studio, 7518 Madison, for a quick dance lesson. While there, the traveling shot glass learned of an upcoming dance show at Pineapple on Aug. 15. All types of dancing will be on exhibit and audience members are encouraged to join for a lesson. Contact pineapple dance.org.

For more on the traveling shot glass, send an e-mail to rooster420@aol.com.

The Liebs hosted their annual concert party last week. Everyone agreed it was the best music and the best concert they’d attended all summer. It should have been, the performers were all professional. Well, most of them were.

It was just a rumor that Pat’s Pet Emporium was closing. In fact, they have never been busier. So, don’t be sad, you can still take your doggie to Pat’s.

And finally, a little note to my faithful readers. Birthdays will be listed during the week in which they’re celebrated, but without the specific date. Don’t forget to wish your neighbors a happy birthday.

Special birthday greetings to 10-year-old Lena Giuliani! Hope Simon, Cecilia Rossi, Dan Venski, Karen Stuart, Kelly Rice, Debbie Espinoza, Kelly Crawford, Jon Scheiwe, Chris Behnke, Kathleen Marie Lane, Marie Gianelli, Madeline Kochman, Dyonne Scheiwe, Cali Carlson, Ashley Ernst, Sandy Boy, Briana Balsavich and Andrea Gaines also have birthdays this week. Happy anniversary to Janet and Gary Fink.