BAPA Celebrates 75th Anniversary With Big Night

CHICAGO – The Beverly Area Planning Association will celebrate its 75th Anniversary on Sat., Jan 21. BAPA’s long history will be at the center of attention as neighbors get together to enjoy music by the Outcast Jazz Band, dancing, open bar, and hearty hors d’oeuvres from 7 to 10 p.m., and more music and dancing, pizza, and cash bar, from 10 p.m. to midnight at The Vineyard, 2105 W. 95th St.

The Beverly/Morgan Park community that is served by BAPA has seen a lot of change between October 14, 1947, when the organization filed its articles of incorporation, to now. BAPA and friends will celebrate the vibrant, innovative, and accomplished organization that BAPA is today.

Despite humble beginnings, the Outcast Jazz Band has played at some of the most prestigious ballrooms and events in Chicagoland since it was founded in 1981. The Outcast Jazz Band now swings out its repertoire of classic big band music from the 1930s, 1940s. and 1950s (peppered with a smattering of Paul Simon, Van Morrison, and Ray Charles from the 1960s), with a 17-piece group that features five saxophones, four trombones, four trumpets, a full rhythm section, and several vocalists. The band will perform at BAPA’s Big Night from 7 to 10 p.m.

BAPA’s Big Night is a celebration and a fundraiser. The planning committee is working on details for unique prizes for party activities that include some party games with a purpose. When the dance floor empties during the band’s intermission, it will quickly be refilled by people competing for a spectacular prize in a game of Heads & Tails. The Wine Pull fundraiser offers a chance to pull a cork and win a bottle of wine or spirits valued at $20 or more, possibly much more! At least 100 bottles of wine and liquors will be donated to BAPA for this spirited fundraiser, and everyone who purchases a cork will win. A variety of wine styles and price points will make the wine pull exciting and add to the cheer.

BAPA’s Big Night tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online in advance at BAPA Big Night or $125 at the door. Limited tickets are available.