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SUMMARY:Salsarobics
DESCRIPTION:Get Ready to Move with SALSArobics!\nJoin Esther Gutierrez Sloan every Friday for a dynamic workout that blends fun\, rhythm\, and full-body movement. This class isn’t just about exercise—it’s about joy\, discovery\, and the thrill of dance! \nThroughout the session\, participants choose their intensity level—low\, moderate\, or high—while moving to irresistible Latin\, Caribbean\, Spanish\, and African beats. Options for both low-impact and high-impact movements allow everyone to customize their experience. \nEach class delivers an energizing workout that averages 4\,000 to 4\,200 steps\, with varying degrees of intensity. Esther integrates the Total Body Training (TBT) Systems Methodology to support proper posture and promote muscle conditioning. She also incorporates Peripheral Heart Action (PHA) Training\, offering an optional challenge that builds aerobic strength based on individual pace and rhythm. \nTo build coordination and balance\, the class includes inline motion drills. Participants move across the room using steps that change direction—laterally\, diagonally\, forward\, and backward—adding functional movement to the workout. \nThe session concludes with Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching to enhance flexibility and recovery. \nColombian-born Esther Gutierrez Sloan created SALSArobics in 1989 to fuse authentic Latin rhythms with aerobic exercise. She has performed on national and local television in Illinois\, California\, Florida\, and New York. In addition to leading classes\, she has presented SALSArobics at fitness conventions\, schools\, health clubs\, ethnic festivals\, and international events. \nIn recognition of her groundbreaking work\, Esther was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2010.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/salsarobics-15/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250601T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250601T163000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20210312T222132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T170122Z
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SUMMARY:Fresh Summer Cocktails with North Shore Distillery
DESCRIPTION:Summer Cocktails with Sonja Kassebaum of North Shore Distillery\nLooking to elevate your summer entertaining game? Join us for an engaging\, hands-on afternoon with one of the region’s top cocktail experts\, Sonja Kassebaum\, co-founder of the acclaimed North Shore Distillery. Whether you’re a seasoned home mixologist or simply love a good drink\, this class is sure to spark your creativity and refresh your cocktail repertoire. \nSonja will guide you through the creation of six unique and refreshing cocktails—perfect for all your summer gatherings. Featuring a mix of North Shore’s signature spirits\, fresh seasonal ingredients\, and approachable techniques\, these drinks are designed to impress your guests while remaining fun and easy to prepare. \nDuring the session\, you’ll learn:\n\nHow to craft cocktails for one or two\, as well as how to scale up for a party\nThe importance of balancing flavors and using fresh ingredients\nUseful tips on batching\, garnishing\, and selecting glassware\nCreative ways to make your drinks stand out with simple yet elegant presentation techniques\n\nThis is more than just a demonstration—it’s a celebration of flavor\, community\, and the joy of creating something delicious. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue\, a dinner party\, or just relaxing on the patio\, Sonja’s cocktail creations will give you plenty of ideas to sip and share. \nMust be 21 or older to attend. Space is limited\, so grab your spot early and get ready to shake things up this summer!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/fresh-summer-cocktails-with-north-shore-distillery/
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Cooking,Specialty
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250602T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250602T123000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20250131T191143Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T162720Z
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SUMMARY:Drawing Faces Like Da Vinci Art Camp
DESCRIPTION:4 OR 5 DAY CAMP OPTIONS! Choose Monday\, June 2 – Friday\, June 6….or Tuesday\, June 3 – Friday\, June 6\nDrawing Faces Like Da Vinci is an engaging\, hands-on art camp designed specifically for middle and high school students who are curious about mastering the timeless art of portrait drawing. Drawing inspiration from one of history’s greatest artists and thinkers\, Leonardo da Vinci\, this camp introduces students to classical techniques that continue to influence artists today. \nOver the course of five interactive sessions\, students will receive direct instruction and guided practice in the foundational skills of portrait drawing. This modern approach makes classical art techniques feel fresh and relevant\, encouraging students to see the connections between history and their own creativity. \nCampers will explore and apply Da Vinci’s artistic principles\, including proportion\, symmetry\, anatomical accuracy\, and shading techniques. They’ll take a closer look at iconic works like the Vitruvian Man\, learning about the Golden Ratio and how it has shaped our understanding of beauty and balance in facial features. \nAs students progress through the camp\, they’ll begin to see improvements in their technical skills\, attention to detail\, and artistic confidence. Each participant will have the opportunity to create and refine their own portraits\, culminating in finished pieces they can proudly take home—true Renaissance-inspired masterpieces. \nWhether your child is a complete beginner or a budding young artist looking to refine their skills\, this camp provides an exciting opportunity to grow artistically in a supportive and inspiring environment. \nOpen to students entering 5th through 12th grade. All materials are provided. Don’t miss this unique chance to explore art through the eyes of a genius!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/drawing-faces-like-da-vinci-art-camp/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T203000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20250415T153525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T144327Z
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SUMMARY:Creative Writing
DESCRIPTION:Unleash Your Creative Voice\nHave you always wanted to try creative writing but stopped yourself before you began? Or maybe you’ve written before and want to reignite your passion for storytelling? If so\, this class is designed just for you. \nIn a supportive and encouraging environment\, you’ll be gently guided into the world of your own words and ideas. Through fun and engaging exercises\, you’ll learn to silence self-doubt and give your creativity room to grow. You’ll discover the joy of writing from your unique perspective—free of judgment and full of possibility. \nAs you explore different writing styles\, you’ll unlock your authentic voice and learn how to bring your stories to life. Whether you’re crafting fiction\, journaling\, or experimenting with poetry\, you’ll find inspiration and confidence along the way. \nWhat to Expect\nCome ready to have fun\, take creative risks\, and surprise yourself with what you create. Creative writing is a powerful form of self-expression. Regardless of your age or writing experience\, it’s never too soon—or too late—to explore where your words can take you. \nThis course welcomes everyone\, from complete beginners to seasoned writers seeking a fresh start. Together\, we’ll build a space where ideas can flourish. \nAbout Your Instructor – Melissa MacTaggart\nMelissa MacTaggart brings a multi-layered background in writing and the performing arts. She has worked as an actor\, producer\, director\, playwright\, theatre company creative director\, and drama teacher. With over 25 years as a freelance writer\, Melissa has experience in a wide range of genres. \nHer work includes: \n\n\nTwo original plays produced in Los Angeles during the Beverly Hills Live summer season \n\n\nA bi-monthly column\, Urban Suburban\, for Chicagoland’s Sun-Times \n\n\nNine years as a ghostwriter for an online magazine\, covering topics from gardening to environmental awareness \n\n\nArticles for the Daily Herald Chicago and content creation for various websites \n\n\nSongwriting and lyric composition \n\n\nA book deal with IOM Media for her youth novel\, set to release in September 2025 \n\n\nMelissa’s deep love for language and storytelling continues to shape her creative journey\, and she is excited to help you begin—or deepen—yours.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/creative-writing-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T120000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
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LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T174952Z
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SUMMARY:Summer Stitchers Sewing Camp with Ciao Bella
DESCRIPTION:THIS CAMP IS SOLD OUT!\nKick off summer break with creativity and fun at this exciting three-day sewing camp—perfect for beginner and returning young sewers alike! Designed for kids ages 8 to 15\, this camp offers a hands-on opportunity to learn essential sewing skills while making stylish\, functional projects. \nEach day\, campers will use a sewing machine to stitch their way through a variety of fun and useful items. Over the course of the camp\, they’ll complete a cute tank top\, matching shorts\, and a summer bag—the perfect handmade ensemble to show off all season long! Campers will build confidence\, learn new techniques\, and take pride in creating something they can wear and use. \nLed by the talented instructors of Ciao Bella Sewing\, this camp is ideal for kids who love to make things and enjoy working with their hands. All supplies are included\, including fabric\, sewing notions\, and sewing machines. However\, students are welcome to bring their own machines if they prefer. \nCiao Bella creates a supportive\, upbeat environment where kids can express their creativity\, develop lifelong skills\, and have SEW much fun doing it! \nCampers should bring a water bottle and a healthy snack each day to stay energized and refreshed during camp. \nWhether your child is brand new to sewing or already has some experience\, this camp promises to be a fun and fulfilling start to the summer!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/summer-stictchers-sewing-camp-with-ciao-bella/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Sewing,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T120000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20230913T181258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T164356Z
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SUMMARY:Mahjong
DESCRIPTION:THIS SESSION HAS SOLD OUT! PLEASE JOIN US IN JUNE AND/OR JULY!\nCome learn to play Mahjong with friends and neighbors! Over this four-week Mahjong course\, you will learn how to play Mahjong based on the National Mahjong rules. Mahjong\, a tile-based game created in 19th century China\, is a social tabletop game that is competitive\, exciting\, mentally stimulating and very fun. Mahjong requires cooperation and strategy between four players\, so it’s a great game to play with friends or a way to make some new ones! \nDebbie will group participants and provide personalized instruction for advanced players as well as players just learning the game. So\, even if you’ve taken sessions previously\, there is always more strategy to learn! \nParticipants will need to purchase the new 2025 Mahjong cards and they are available here –  national mahjong league \nAbout Mahjong\nMahjong is a tiled tabletop game that originated in China in the 19th century and has become a staple of Chinese culture and daily life. Although there are many different variations of the game; almost every region of China has its own specialty version\, Mahjong is often played as a four-person game with painted tiles in different suits. Although specific rules vary\, the general goal is to make sets of the same suit or same number\, similar to gin rummy.  \nMahjong was imported to the US in the early 20th century. American Mahjong\, a version created in Chinese neighborhoods in the US\, was first played in the 1920s and has become the most common version played in the US. Sign up for Debbie’s Mahjong class to learn more about the game and get some hands-on experience.  \n \nNot only is Mahjong an exciting tabletop game played with friends\, it is also a stimulating mental exercise. While not conclusive\, research suggests that brain games\, such as Mahjong\, can help improve memory retention\, mental sharpness and reduce the risk of dementia. Either way\, Gorton’s Mahjong class is guaranteed to lift your spirits and add some excitement to your week.  \nDebbie Meyer has been playing Mahjong for over 20 years. She loves the game and how each hand is different. Debbie’s passion is to teach the game of Mahjong to others! 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mahjong-8/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250604T150000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20230824T061912Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T151117Z
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SUMMARY:Canasta
DESCRIPTION:Learn to Play Canasta with Debbie Meyer – All Levels Welcome!\nLooking for a fun and social way to challenge your mind? Join us for a lively and engaging Canasta class led by the enthusiastic and experienced Debbie Meyer. Whether you’re completely new to the game or already have a few hands under your belt\, this session is designed for players of all experience levels. \nCanasta is a popular and fast-growing card game played with partners\, combining elements of strategy\, skill\, and a bit of luck. The goal? Outsmart your opponents and rack up points by forming melds—sets of cards of the same rank. It’s a game that’s both stimulating and social\, offering the perfect balance of challenge and fun. You’ll quickly understand why it has become a favorite among card players around the world. \nDuring the class\, Debbie will group participants based on skill level\, providing personalized instruction that meets you where you are. Beginners will learn the fundamentals\, including rules\, scoring\, and basic strategies. More advanced players will dive into complex strategies and gameplay techniques to sharpen their competitive edge. \nWith over eight years of playing experience\, Debbie’s love for Canasta shines through in her teaching. Her friendly\, encouraging approach creates a welcoming environment for learning and connecting with others. Whether you’re hoping to master the game\, meet new friends\, or simply enjoy a new hobby\, this Canasta class offers something for everyone. \nGrab your friends\, bring your curiosity\, and prepare for an afternoon of fun\, laughter\, and learning. Once you start playing\, you’ll see why Canasta is truly all the rage! \nAll materials are provided. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn. Come see what makes Canasta so captivating!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/canasta-7/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T193000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20240708T144044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T174041Z
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SUMMARY:Breath & Meditation
DESCRIPTION:Learning to breathe is an art form.  Allowing the breath to center and rebalance the body & mind is a practice.  Meditation helps to focus our energy and enhance our lives. Practicing breath and meditation can help with a variety of intentions including relaxation\, stress reduction\, focusing\, intention setting\, directing energy and more. \nEach session we learn how to use the breath in new ways to experience the life force within us and help to direct our energy through intentions. Different modes of meditation will be used through sound\, mudras\, mantra\, and more.  This class is designed for beginners and current practicing meditators. \nNo prior meditation experience is necessary.  Bring a yoga mat\, blanket\, and journal to help enhance your experience.  Available on site as well. \nJennifer is a Holistic Occupational Therapist specializing in several healing modalities in her practice.  She works with people from all ages and stages of life from birth to seasoned ages.  Teaching how to move the energy of the body through breath\, visualization and meditation is one her favorite parts of her career.  Helping people shift and heal into their spirit’s joy is another!  As a mom\, wife\, & healer the importance of self-care is ever so valuable.  Healing individually and collectively is profound.  It is beautiful life work.  More on meditations and classes can be found at intuitlove.com or contacting Jennifer directly at JenniferLauren@nullintuitlove.com or 224-500-7797. 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/breath-meditation-4/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250606T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250606T210000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20230824T105938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T145054Z
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SUMMARY:Palette & Pours: Fireworks
DESCRIPTION:Wine & Painting with Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz: Fireworks-Themed Fun for Adults\nTreat yourself to a festive\, relaxing evening of creativity and connection at this adult Wine & Painting session led by local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz. Whether you’re an experienced painter or trying it for the first time\, you’ll enjoy a fun and inspiring atmosphere designed for all skill levels. \nIn this session\, you’ll paint a fireworks-themed scene that captures the energy and excitement of summer celebrations. Sandie and Lezlie will guide you step by step\, offering clear instruction on brushwork\, color blending\, and layout. With each stroke\, you’ll gain confidence and watch your unique creation come to life on the canvas. \nBeyond artistic technique\, the evening offers more than just painting. Creative expression can lift your mood\, ease stress\, and awaken your imagination. Paired with a glass of wine and great company\, the experience becomes both joyful and restorative. \nCome solo or bring a friend—either way\, you’ll be welcomed into a supportive\, no-pressure environment where everyone shares in the fun. You might even meet someone new as you laugh\, sip\, and paint your way through the night. \nAll painting supplies are provided\, and a glass of wine is included with registration. Guests are also welcome to bring their own favorite beverages if they prefer. \nJoin us and let your creativity sparkle as brightly as the night sky. You’ll leave with a vibrant piece of art\, new memories\, and maybe even a new favorite hobby.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/palette-pours-fireworks/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250607T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250607T120000
DTSTAMP:20260503T084023
CREATED:20240130T174531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T153259Z
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SUMMARY:Tai Chi With Ken Ning
DESCRIPTION:Sign up for Gorton’s Tai Chi class and join Ken Ning each Saturday to learn and practice Tai Chi. Ken’s Tai Chi class is open to both beginners and experienced practitioners. \nTai Chi is an inclusive form of exercise that anyone can do\, whether you are in peak shape\, or have limited mobility. Despite its slow pace\, Tai Chi is a valuable exercise for all ages\, read about the health benefits of Tai Chi below. Dress comfortably and be prepared to have fun in Ken’s Tai Chi class. \nHealth Benefits of Tai Chi \nTai Chi has numerous health benefits. It is good for balance\, flexibility\, and stress – regular Tai Chi practice can improve overall physical health and well-being. In fact\, Harvard Health suggests Tai Chi might be “…the perfect activity for the rest of your life.” \nAs a form of exercise\, researchers in Toronto found Tai Chi is equivalent to brisk walking. So\, instead of worrying about your steps (how boring)\, join Ken’s Tai Chi class and have some more fun while you exercise. \nUnlike other forms of exercise\, Tai Chi movements are performed with relaxed muscles and a focus on deep breathing. Slow and gentle\, Tai Chi can improve blood flow\, balance\, and relaxation. Each Tai Chi pose flows into the next with circular\, continuous movements. This helps improve your balance and flexibility without putting strain on muscles and joints. \nTai Chi is also a very social activity\, commonly practiced in groups that rhythmically synchronize slow movements with deep breathing. Like meditation\, Tai Chi creates a calm and focused mind and can create a state of mindfulness. \nTai Chi also benefits emotional well-being and mental health. Regular Tai Chi practice can improve concentration\, physical self-awareness\, and create a sense of inner peace. Tai chi is a great exercise for relieving stress and has been shown to benefit hypertension and high blood pressure. \nWhat is Tai Chi? \nTai Chi is a Chinese traditional exercise that blends martial arts’ movement with meditation. Dating back a thousand years\, Tai Chi remains a popular activity in China and around the world. \nTai Chi is a series of slow\, choreographed martial arts movements and poses. Tai Chi poses are circular and continuous\, with an emphasis on smooth transitions and maintaining a centered and grounded posture. Tai Chi poses mimic the movements of animals or nature\, such as flowing water or a bird in flight.  \nKen has been practicing martial arts for 27 years\, and started Tai Chi training in 1996 with Sifu Dale Washington\, Sifu Ban Toy in 2000 and Grand Master Yang Jun in 2006. He has been practicing Tai Chi for 21 years and teaching Tai Chi for 12 years. In 2016\, he received a Gold Eagle certificate from Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Association. certificate. Ken is also one of Grand Master Yang Jun’s Disciples for the Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan. He teaches Kickboxing and Full-contact Martial Arts teacher and is certified by Ng Family Martial Arts Association.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/tai-chi-with-ken-ning-32/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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