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Community Corner

Out of Control Draws Hundreds During Inaugural “Gig at the Y!”

Guests were offered a surprise chance to tour the newly renovated spaces of the North Suburban YMCA.

Attracted by beautiful weather and the sounds of outdoor music, an enthusiastic audience gathered on the front lawn of the on Tuesday to enjoy the first “” concert presented by the Northbrook Arts Commission. Approximately 200 people lounged on blankets and lawn chairs for the performance by the Top-40 band “Out of Control,” picnicking with fresh grilled food from .

An added attraction of the evening was the chance for visitors to view newly-renovated spaces inside the YMCA, including an expansive new lobby and completely upgraded men’s locker room. Staff members led impromptu tours of the improved facilities, which are part of a $1.7 million renovation project encompassing the entire building.

New exterior improvements were also in evidence, from the new front entry and patio to the colorful new Y logo and lettering on the building. Numerous additional renovations continue to move forward, with a projected completion date of mid-October.

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The August 7 concert was the first of three to be presented at the Y, located at 2705 Techny Road. Arts Commission Chairperson Julia Miller was very happy to see the concert succeed at its new venue.

“It was really a perfect evening,” said Miller. “We had a great turnout with a wide range of ages. Everyone enjoyed seeing their friends and neighbors, and the Y itself looked fabulous. It was the kind of event that really gives us the community feeling that we strive for.”

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Two more concerts are planned in the 2012 Gig at the Y series. On August 14, The Nightcrawlers blues band will perform with food available for purchase from . The August 21 show features People of Swing, with food vendor .

Music and food service begins at 6:30 each night. To avoid Techny Road construction eastbound lane closures, visitors coming from the west are advised to take Pfingsten Road to Koepke Road (one light north of Techny) and follow the signs to access the Y’s parking lot. For more information, visit www.nsymca.org or call 847 272 7250.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The YMCA is a not-for-profit entity and relies on donations to fund capital improvements and keep its programs available to all, including those facing financial hardship. All board members are community volunteers who donate their time, talents and financial resources. Located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook, the YMCA has served area families in its twelve-city region for over 40 years.

The Y is about youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, providing programs and services that meet the needs of our community and are accessible to all. For more information or to make a donation call Tara Bilby at 847-272-7250, tbilby@nsymca.org, or visit www.nsymca.org.

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