Fall 2011

The LPL Summer That Was

From navigating through whitewater rapids to cruising quiet urban river water, tossing water-filled balloons and watching movies alongside the waters of Lake Michigan, outdoor water activities found a prominent place on LPL’s summer calendar.

Pride Weekend

It all started on Pride Weekend when about 20 LPLers gathered near Lake Michigan’s Osterman Beach in Lincoln Park to watch the movie, “Rent.“ Tony and Alex brought popcorn and peanuts as we all shared the heart-warming movie. And as the final nostalgic song faded, the mood changed dramatically to cheers as park district staff announced the New York legislature had just approved same sex marriage.

Wisconsin Wilderness

But water played a much bigger role in July. Far from Osterman Beach about 60 guys invaded the woods of northern Wisconsin for horseback riding, antiquing and, of course, white water rafting. Many churned down the Wolf River over rapids and through narrow canyons, only to be tossed over Big Smokey Falls, the river’s final challenge. Everyone fared well, and this year’s “broken paddle” was awarded to Geo…not for a bruise or sprain, but for a broken fingernail? There was a lot of competition for “queen of the camp,” but Henry won out with his rendition of “how to get on the Shotgun Eddy shuttle bus, flight attendant style.” Ariel presented a photo collage in the dining pavilion, and also posted photos on Facebook for all to enjoy.

All Groups Picnic

If we weren’t sitting by the water or rafting over it, we were throwing it. Felix emceed the water balloon contest at the All Groups Picnic in late August. About 25 LPL members joined another 75 people representing groups from all over Chicagoland at Busse Woods, part of the Cook County Forest Preserve system. The Sunday afternoon event continues to grow each year.

Architecture Cruise

Those of a certain age may remember the lyrics, “cruising down the river, on a Sunday afternoon.“ Well, 20 LPLers did just that and enjoyed a lecture from a Chicago Architecture Foundation expert while cruising through the skyscraper canyons of the Chicago River. Chicago was, after all, where the world’s first skyscraper was built. A gathering at Pizano’s Pizza and Pasta followed the cruise.

Drive-In Movie

Drive-in movies are not obsolete, at least at LPL. An alien named Paul invaded the movie screen in Johnny and Damien’s back yard to the enjoyment of almost 60 LPLers. Hot dogs, peanuts, popcorn and other goodies from the bygone era added to the fun.

And on another summer night about 20 LPLers informally gathered at Indian Boundary Park to see the epic film, That’s Entertainment.“

What’s Next?

As the days get shorter, and the trees around Lincoln Park lagoons start to show their fall colors, we begin to think about Halloween and the upcoming holiday season. Your Board of Directors is busy planning fall events.

Masquerade Buffet

The May Street Café (1146 W. Cermak) hosts LPL’s October event with a Masquerade Brunch on Sunday, October 23 from Noon to 2:00 pm. Masks are encouraged, and the best one wins a prize.

Holiday Party

LPL’s annual Holiday Party returns on November 19. Details to follow.

Holly Trolley

The popular Holly Trolley makes a reprise visit on Saturday, December 2 and will take us around Chicago to see how the city decorates and welcomes the holidays. A pre-trolley reception begins at 6:30 pm at North End (3733 N. Halsted).

VISIT THE LPL WEBSITE (WWW.LPLCHICAGO.COM), OR JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP FOR THE LATEST DETAILS ABOUT UPCOMING EVENTS.

(c)October 2011 LPL Chicago
http://www.lplchicago.com/