The nights were filled with music blossoming trees, tulips, jonquils and spring, a cold spring, but spring nonetheless. So for at least a few hours the cares of the day, folded their tents like the Arabs and silently stole away. The Michael Teolis Singers again presented another of their off- beat concerts featuring music of well-known composers presented in a different light. First United Methodist Church on Oak Park Avenue was filled to capacity last Saturday night to hear the world renowned pianist Justin Kolb. He really captivated the audience with his spirited playing and selections. Example: music of Aaron Copeland with lyrics by Ira Gershwin. A song about a toothache written by Robert Schumann, the Twleve Months by Peter Schickele, so much more. This gracious, famous man too time to extol the musicianship of accompanist David Richards, well deserved. Mr. Kolb displayed his humanity, love of people as well as music. Be sure to get to the next Teolis concert which will be at Pleasant Home on Oct. 19 at 4 p.m. No matter what kind of music you like, you’re sure to love a Michael Teolis concert.
Then Sunday afternoon the Oak Park Concert Chorale, Paul Lindblad director, presented Cry Out and Shout at Grace Lutheran. The Saint John Choristers and Schola Cantorum joined the Chorale much to the delight of the audience. Among the Cantorum singers is Forest Parker, Eric Neubieser. Featured soloist was Willard Thoman, who has sung with Chicago Symphony Chorus, Music of the Baroque, Chicago Baroque Ensemble, and others. Many Forest Parkers attended both concerts last week-end among them Marian Flight, Eleanor Locati, Nancy and Kathy Greco.
A delightful ladies tea was hosted Saturday by Diane Hansen Grah of the Historical Society of Forest Park at Under the Gingko Tree Bed and Breakfast in Oak Park. A spread of desserts provided by Little Red Wagon Coffee shop was available including everyone’s favorite, banana pudding with vanilla wafers. Yum.
Don’t miss her next event next Saturday: A historic walk down Madison Street. You will learn about the many architects, builders and businessmen/women that transformed Madison Street into what it is today. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members. If you would like to have lunch at Madison Park Kitchen, that there is an additional $10 charge for the lunch. Call 708-232-3747 or email her at forestparkhistory1975@gmail.com.
Congratulations to our editor Jean Lotus on her Peter Lisagor Award for best in-depth community news coverage from the Chicago Headline Club.
Friends of the Library and library staff send sincerest wishes to Zeno Jacquat for a speedy recovery. Zeno is probably the best loved man in town and everyone wants him back soon. The Friends will meet this Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m. to hear guest speaker, Jason Smith from the Book Table in Oak Park. His previous date had to be rescheduled.
Special Happy Birthday Greetings to 101 year old Lorraine Boy!!
Congratulations to new baby girl Scarlett Strickland who arrived (a bit late). Her parents, Adam and Alison Fyeri Strickland, just about gave up waiting for Scarlett who arrived looking thoughtful with her tiny hand on the side of her face. Perhaps wondering if she should come out or not.
May birthdays for this week: Happy birthday to Michelle Collis, Sofia Alvarato Erin Casey, Ashley Kanelos, Chantel Kamm, Ruth Sinnott, Becky Marcantonio, Carrie Schwebl, Kylie Earing, Tracie Karlin, L.A. Goodman, John V. Grimes, Chris Fulko,, Taylor Hollis, Diane Dylewski, Mary Ann Geraci. Happy anniversary to Vincent and Robin Cirrintano, Ellen and Morris O’Connor.
