Friday 11/20 – Thursday 11/26
21sATurday Every time heavy rains fill suburban cellars knee-deep with water but leave the city relatively unscathed, a public official goes on TV to invoke and praise the Deep Tunnel. Indeed, since the first phase of the multibillion-dollar underground storm water drainage system was implemented in 1985, reports of fecal grease balls washing up on city beaches–once a regular summer occurrence–have practically come to a halt. But do you know anyone who’s actually seen the largest public-works project in the country? Today a lucky few will be able to inspect the bowels of a 300-foot-deep shaft at a Gay and Lesbian Building and Trade Professionals-sponsored private tour. A bus to the site leaves at noon; participants will meet at 11:30 at Big Chicks, 5024 N. Sheridan. Those who make their own travel arrangements can meet at 1 at the Hodgkins pumping station, 6100 River Road in Hodgkins. Round-trip transportation is $10; the tour itself is free, but you must call 773-281-3878 to make a reservation.
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26 THURSDAY Holiday family squabbles are a heck of a lot easier to take on an endorphin high. That’s what I found out a few years ago, when I began Thanksgiving Day with a morning run at the annual Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Day Race. I didn’t even come close to winning, but the nearly five-mile run gave me such a buzz that my sister-in-law’s pot banging and my brother’s fart jokes seemed almost amusing for a change–and I didn’t feel guilty about filling my plate several times, either. This year the eight-kilometer race has a new starting point–2500 N. Cannon. Registration is $17 ($20 at the race) plus at least one can of food to be donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Prizes will be awarded to the top five men and women overall as well as the top three men and women in each age group. Walking’s allowed, and each registrant will get a goody bag and a T-shirt. Registration starts at 7:30 and the race is at 9. Call 773-248-7400 for more.
