Smile Politely

Won’t you be my neighbor?

On Wednesday, July 1st, the Urbana Park District hosted their weekly Neighborhood Nights event at Prairie Park in Urbana, bringing the musical talents of Desafinado to the stage on a slightly overcast and humid, but otherwise pleasantly warm evening. While the bugs might have been a little thicker than desired, park district employees provided free bug spray so that people could keep their focus on where it belonged: the band.

The night kicked off at 6:30 p.m., and vocalist Elis Artz kept the crowd enthralled with a voice that was one moment warm and sensual, the next full of energy and inspiring people to dance to the beat. The rest of the band did their part too, mixing in guitar, congas, saxophone, bass, drums, and clarinet to give attendees a show worthwhile of applause. The park district provided free popcorn and lemonade, as well as some fun activities for the younger generation, which contributed to a relaxing and intimate night spent with friends, family, and, of course, your neighbors. The evening wrapped up right at 8 p.m., which left plenty of time to grab a late dinner after the show or to get home and put the kids to bed at a reasonable time.

If you want to check out more of Desafinado, visit their website or find them on Facebook.

The next Neighborhood Nights event will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8th, at Crestview Park in Urbana, and will feature classic, country, and roots rock from Riders of the Golden Maize.

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