WED 6/7
‘Rita rewards
Made it through 666 in one piece? What better way to toast the not-so-end-of-the-world than with an X-Rated margarita at El Nuevo Mexicano? The drink’s just $6 on Wednesdays (normally $9), and it’s a doozy. We named this oh-so-naughty nectar our fave martini-style ‘rita (see “Salt Rocks!” at metromix.com for more top sips). 2914 N. Clark St. 773-528-2131. And as long as you’re safe–at least for now–from the super 666ers, crank the heat up a notch with a full slate of sizzling summer activities; see Page 42 for more on our metromix Summer Kickoff, and find more Hot Week! picks at metromix.com.
Free, no strings attached
Still mourning the loss of the “The Muppet Show”? Can’t wait until Conan unleashes his next Triumph the Insult Comic Dog bit? Grab a seat at I.O.’s “Felt,” and get your perverted puppet fix. The show employs a cast of nine Jim Henson-inspired characters to demonstrate improv stylings from the troupe’s 25-year history. It takes “Tickle me, Elmo” to a whole new level. 8 p.m. Free. I.O., 3541 N. Clark St. 773-880-0199.
Industrious idea
Blew your cash on a first-run screening of “The Omen,” and all you’ve got to show for it is a lingering sugar rush (you know, from the six pack of sodas you drank to stay awake)? Liven up your week with a shot of culture that’s dated–but in a good way. The Museum of Science and Industry is waiving its admittance fee this week–that means free entry, folks!–so now’s the time to ogle a more educational form of eye candy. 9:30 a.m. daily through Friday. 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. 773-684-1414.
Flex your bod, not your wallet
You’re willing to stretch your bod to stay in shape–but not so much your gas budget? The North Side’s not the only place to practice your downward dog; South Siders who sign on for a Beginning Yoga Class at Beverly Yoga Studio will learn the basics of breathing techniques, relaxation and posture. And that’s just from the thought of saving bucks at the pump. 6:15 p.m. $15; $60-$200 for class packages. 1917 W. 103rd St. 773-239-9642.
THU 6/8
Chips and dips
So, we caught a few minutes of “Ocean’s Eleven” on the telly earlier this week, and you know that scene where Brad Pitt schools a flock of not-so-savvy TV youngsters (awe, Topher Grace with a beard) on the ins and outs of poker? It reminded us how lucrative a good hand can be. Think you’ve got the skills? Lay your cards on the table at a Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament, and you could score airline tickets, a plasma TV and more. With an open bar. 5:30 p.m. Cactus Bar & Grill, 404 S. Wells St. 312-915-3562.
Much ado about ‘dos
Hey, we’ve all had a bad hair day–heck, this might be a bad hair year–and this summer’s soon-to-set-in humidity won’t do a thing for our much-fussed styles. But at least we can toast a new helping hand when fresh spot Brilli Salon, A Style Lounge hosts its Grand Opening Party. Show up for free appetizers, cocktails and, we bet, plenty of coiffure commiseration. 7 p.m. Free. RSVP required: rsvp@skirtpr.com. 3334 N. Ashland Ave. 773-755-4247.
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jwehunt@tribune.com
