Speaking For A Change

The Beach Boys: America’s Band and Their Timeless Sound
2026-06-10 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago) | New City Library, 220 N. Main Street, New City, NY, 10956-4000, United States
THIS PROGRAM IS FREE AND ON ZOOM, THANKS TO OUR FRIENDS AT THE FANTASTIC NEW CITY LIBRARY! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
With Brian Wilson’s death on June 11, 2025, American music lost one of its most dynamic and original creators. As co-founder of the Beach Boys, Wilson was the musical genius behind the California sound, melding lush harmonies, inventive arrangements, and emotional depth into pop music in ways few have ever done. From iconic early hits like Surfin’ U.S.A. to masterpieces like Pet Sounds and Good Vibrations, his work continues to inspire musicians across genres.
The Beach Boys created an unmistakably American sound — sunny, inventive, and layered with harmonies that captured the spirit of an era. Emerging from Southern California in the early 1960s, they became the soundtrack of surfboards, convertibles, and endless summers.
Yet their music was far more sophisticated than it first appeared. Brian Wilson, their creative force, blended rock, jazz, and classical influences to craft songs that still feel fresh decades later.
The Beach Boys constantly pushed boundaries from early hits like Surfin’ U.S.A. and California Girls to the groundbreaking Pet Sounds album and the iconic Good Vibrations. Their work influenced everyone from the Beatles to today’s indie bands. Behind the catchy tunes were stories of sibling rivalries, innovation in the studio, and the complicated personal struggles that shaped their artistry.
This fascinating multimedia program traces the history of the Beach Boys — from their modest beginnings in Hawthorne, California, to their rightful place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
With fabulous music clips, rare behind-the-scenes stories, and fascinating cultural context, we’ll rediscover why the Beach Boys remain one of American music history’s most important and beloved groups.
Whether you grew up with their records or are hearing them with new ears, their story is as moving as their melodies.

Carl Reiner
2026-06-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Senior Center, 100 E. Old Mill Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
Carl Reiner was one of the funniest men ever to appear, write for, or direct a TV episode!
At 97, he was the oldest celebrity active on Twitter – and never contemplating retiring from show business! Join me for a fast, funny, and fascinating look at one of America’s classic comic treasures, Mr. Carl Reiner
Carl Reiner first exploded into the American consciousness as the straight man on the immortal Sid Caesar’s great TV shows.
Working alongside writing legends including Mel Brooks, Woody Allen, Neil Simon, Selma Diamond, and Larry Gelbart, Carl Reiner became one of the volatile Caesar’s favorite co-stars and most trusted writers.
Their classic “Professor” sketches are still hilarious sixty-five years after they first aired. And his lifelong friendship and collaboration with Mel Brooks began as a result!
After the Sid Caesar shows ended, Carl Reiner created The DIck Van Dyke Show. This program would prove to be one of the most influential, funniest, and most transformative situation comedies of all time.
After Reiner and Van Dyke ended the show at the height of its popularity, the brilliant writer/producer/director began working on feature films.
Carl Reiner created the cult classics “Where’s Poppa” and “Oh, God” before embarking on a brilliant partnership with Steve Martin. The Reiner/Martin films include some of the best comedies of Steve Martin’s career, including “The Jerk,” “All Of Me,” and “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid.
We’ll enjoy clips and stories from all of this – and, of course – the brilliant “2,000-Year-Old Man” routines with Mel Brooks. Don’t miss this excellent presentation!

The Life And Career Of George Clooney
2026-06-12 22:00 | Lake Forest Library, 360 E. Deerpath Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
George Clooney is one of the most celebrated actors and cultural icons of our time. From his breakout role as Dr. Doug Ross on ER to his commanding performances in Syriana and The Descendants, George Clooney has captivated audiences with his unique blend of charisma, talent, and versatility.
This multimedia program provides an in-depth look into the life and career of an actor who has become a true Hollywood legend.
In addition to his award-winning performances, Clooney’s filmography includes beloved hits such as Ocean’s Eleven, Michael Clayton, Batman and Robin, The Ides of March, and Up in the Air.
As an A-list producer and director, George Clooney has shaped the cinematic landscape, earning critical acclaim for films such as Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind and Good Night and Good Luck. His ability to bring depth and charm to his roles has cemented him as a leading figure in the entertainment world.
Beyond Hollywood, George Clooney is renowned for his humanitarian efforts and political activism, including advocacy for refugees and support for disaster relief efforts. A committed family man, he has balanced his personal life with his high-profile career, inspiring millions around the world. Don’t miss this engaging program that celebrates Clooney’s remarkable journey—sign up today!
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Bobby Darin: A Brilliant Career Cut Short
2026-06-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
THIS PROGRAM IS LIVE AND FREE ON ZOOM!
REGISTRATION LINK
With the debut of the new Broadway musical Just in Time on April 23, 2025, American music is experiencing a joyful revival of one of its most dynamic stars, Bobby Darin. The show has introduced a whole new audience to his brilliance, reminding us why songs like Mack the Knife, Beyond the Sea, and Splish Splash continue to sparkle with energy and charm.
Bobby Darin’s story is one of constant reinvention. He effortlessly moved from his days as a songwriter at the Brill Building to rock ’n’ roll teen idol to sophisticated nightclub crooner, from pop to folk to film. Darin’s career was tragically short—he died at just 37—but in that brief time, he left a mark that rivals artists who lived twice as long. His ability to reinvent himself musically and to captivate audiences with both showmanship and sincerity remains the essence of his legacy.
This program will celebrate Darin’s extraordinary life and music through rare clips, behind-the-scenes stories, and timeless recordings. We’ll also touch briefly on how Just in Time, featuring a celebrated performance by Jonathan Groff, is reintroducing Darin’s magic to a new generation. But the heart of our journey is Bobby Darin himself—the dazzling, restless, unforgettable performer who continues to inspire long after his curtain call.
