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SUMMARY:Fencing
DESCRIPTION:En Garde! Prét? Allez!  \nSign your child up for fencing lessons at Gorton! \nThis class is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to sharpen their basic fencing skills. We’ll cover the rules of fencing\, proper etiquette\, footwork\, and both attack and defense techniques. \nEach fencing lesson includes a warm-up\, footwork drills\, group instruction\, and bouting (practice matches). The instructor will guide students every step of the way. \nPlease dress comfortably and bring water. Open to ages 7–14. \nWhy learn to fence?\n\nFencing builds balance\, coordination\, and agility. These skills carry over into other sports and everyday life. \nYou don’t need to be a natural athlete to start. Our lessons ease you into the sport at your own pace. \nFencing sharpens your mind as much as your body. It encourages quick thinking\, creative problem-solving\, and smart strategy. \nPlus\, the sport teaches discipline\, respect\, responsibility\, and sportsmanship – values that go far beyond the fencing strip. \nHistory of Fencing\nDid you know the archaeological evidence of fencing dates back to 1190 B.C.E.? The oldest archeological evidence of a fencing contest is from an Egyptian temple along the river Nile\, and in Europe\, historical records of sword fighting schools extend back to the 12th century. Fencing evolved into a popular entertainment sport around the time of King Henry VIII\, but it wasn’t until the mid-18th century that the sport became truly fashionable among European nobility.\nDuring the 18th and 19th centuries\, fencing became a popular sport among European aristocracy\, and developed a gentlemanly code of conduct which the sport maintains to this day. Men’s fencing competitions were first included in the summer Olympics in 1896 and women’s fencing competitions were added in 1924. \nMidwest Fencing Club’s mission is to help people discover\, enjoy and excel in the sport of fencing by providing the highest level of instruction in a true sportsmanship environment. They have been serving the Chicagoland community for over 10 years. Their experience comes from National\, NCAA\, and Olympic champions. Their programs range from introductory levels to advanced competitive aspirations. Midwest Fencing Club welcomes all ages to learn fencing\, enjoy it as a hobby\, or turn it into their professional sport.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/fencing-september/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Sports,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T100000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250826T152739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T152901Z
UID:20006605-1758013200-1758016800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Yoga with Areta
DESCRIPTION:Yoga With Areta \nJoin Areta for a traditional Vinyasa Flow yoga class. This one-hour\, bi-weekly practice blends poses\, breathwork\, and meditation. Each session helps release tension\, restore balance\, and strengthen the body. At the same time\, you’ll open and lengthen your muscles. \nWhether you’re new to yoga or have years of experience\, this mindful flow will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. Just bring a mat and a water bottle\, and you’re ready to go. \nVinyasa Flow is a dynamic style of yoga. It links breath with movement as you move smoothly from pose to pose. This practice combines ancient traditions with a modern\, fluid rhythm. Its creative sequences encourage you to explore your body\, breath\, and mind in harmony. \nYoga offers powerful benefits. Physically\, it supports heart health\, flexibility\, and strength. Mentally\, it reduces stress and tension. Emotionally\, it boosts energy and leaves you feeling grounded and revitalized. \nAreta has been teaching yoga in Lake Forest and in yoga studios along the North Shore for 10 years and is E-RYT 500 Certified. Areta’s passion is bringing yoga to EVERY BODY\, and has additional certifications in Meditation\, Adaptive Yoga for Disabilities\, Senior Yoga\, Love Your Brain for traumatic brain injury\, Yoga for Eating Disorder Recovery\, Yin Yoga\, and Yoga for 12 Step Recovery. Areta teaches yoga to inspire and empower physical well-being\, spiritual balance and awakening for everyday life. She is a long-time resident of Lake Forest and a disability advocate and volunteer yoga coach for the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA).
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/yoga-with-areta-september-16/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250911T195108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T195108Z
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SUMMARY:Open Play Mahjong
DESCRIPTION:Calling all Mahjong enthusiasts! Join us for Open Play Mahjong — a fun and social opportunity to enjoy the game you love in a relaxed\, informal setting. These sessions are designed for intermediate to advanced players who are already familiar with the rules and flow of the game. Please note that no instruction will be provided during these sessions. \nBring your strategic skills and competitive spirit as you connect with other experienced players. Whether you’re brushing up between classes or just looking for a weekly game\, Open Play is the perfect place to practice\, socialize\, and enjoy the timeless challenge of Mahjong. \nAll Mahjong sets will be provided for use during the session. Just remember to bring your own Mahjong card\, as these will not be supplied. \nPre-registration is required for all participants. Drop-ins cannot be accommodated\, so please make sure to register ahead of time to secure your spot. \nWe look forward to seeing you at the table! \nThe next Mahjong class will start on November 12 and you can register here
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/open-play-mahjong/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250827T163043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T150037Z
UID:20006617-1758124800-1758130200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:RoboThink: Tanks & Battle Bots
DESCRIPTION:Let’s roll out the tanks! Join us as students dive into the exciting world of tanks\, building a variety of armored machines. Throughout the program\, they’ll tackle numerous challenges and engage in epic robot battles that will test their engineering skills to the max! This program is designed for seasoned RoboThinkers\, but newcomers are always welcome. Ages 7 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/robothink-tanks-battle-bots/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,STEM,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250917T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250708T162243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T162243Z
UID:20006479-1758135600-1758144600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Take Your Painting to the Next Level
DESCRIPTION:Ready to take your painting to the next level? \nThis class is ideal for artists who already have some experience painting in Oil\, Acrylic\, Gouache\, or Pastel and are ready to grow their skills further. If you’ve been wanting to turn a photo into a painting or have started a piece but feel unsure about how to move forward\, this is the perfect opportunity to get expert guidance and renewed inspiration. \nEach student brings in either a reference photo or an unfinished painting to work on during class. From there\, artist and instructor Michael Latala provides hands-on\, individualized instruction to help you make confident artistic decisions. First\, he’ll show you how to evaluate your photo reference—guiding you in choosing what elements to include and what to leave out. Then\, through clear demonstrations\, he’ll help you resolve common issues like washed-out highlights or areas that have gone too dark to read. \nThroughout the class\, Michael gives each student personal attention. If you’d prefer to keep your canvas untouched\, he’s happy to demonstrate his suggestions digitally using Procreate on his iPad Pro. This digital approach allows you to visualize changes before applying them\, which can be especially helpful when exploring different color choices or compositional edits. \nImportantly\, this class is all about progress at your own pace. There’s no pressure to finish quickly. Instead\, you’re encouraged to slow down\, focus on what you’re learning\, and enjoy the process. With consistent support and practice\, you’ll discover how to turn your ideas into beautiful\, well-executed paintings—just the way you imagined them. \nThis series is a total of 8 sessions\, all will be 7 – 9:30pm \n\nSeptember 17\nOctober 15\nNovember 12\nDecember 17\nJanuary 15\nFebruary 18\nMarch 18
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/take-your-painting-to-the-next-level-september/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250918T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250918T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250626T175046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T183932Z
UID:20006464-1758222000-1758227400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Moving Meditation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Come Home to Yourself: A Creative Embodiment Workshop \nTake time to reconnect with your inner wisdom. In this 90-minute workshop\, we’ll explore the healing power of writing\, movement\, art\, and connection. \nYou’ll move through a gentle\, yet powerful journey. First\, we’ll begin with reflective journaling. Then\, we’ll shift into 5Rhythms-inspired dance. After that\, you’ll engage in intuitive art-making. Finally\, we’ll come together in heartfelt conversation. \nEach part supports you in slowing down and turning inward. Whether you’re feeling disconnected\, creatively stuck\, or simply need a pause\, this space is here for you. One breath. One expression. One step at a time. \nNo experience is needed—just your body\, your breath\, and a willingness to explore. \nThis is a space for authenticity and curiosity. It’s a place where real connection happens\, your voice is heard\, and your truth is welcome. \nAbout Your Guide: Julie Greenberg \nJulie Greenberg is the founder of Creative Awakening and a passionate guide who uses embodiment\, Human Design\, and self-expression to help others reconnect with who they are and what matters most. With a background in movement\, mindfulness\, intuitive tools\, and energy work\, she creates soulful\, playful spaces grounded in real-life transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/moving-meditation-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250918T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250918T210000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250905T163447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T141723Z
UID:20006669-1758222000-1758229200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Let's Make Masks!
DESCRIPTION:Let’s Make Masks!Creative Workshop with the Deer Path Art League \nGet ready to unleash your inner artist! Join the Deer Path Art League for an exciting and inspiring mask-making workshop at Gorton as we gear up for our dazzling Masquerade Gala on October 4 at the Adler Estate. \nWhether you’re planning to attend the Gala in style\, creating a show-stopping look for an upcoming Halloween party\, or just in the mood for a fun night out\, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to get creative in a festive and welcoming environment. \nEnjoy a relaxing evening sipping drinks among friends while designing your own unique masquerade mask. We’ll provide a fabulous array of materials to choose from—feathers\, garnets\, costume jewelry\, beads\, sequins\, ribbons\, and more—to help you bring your vision to life. \nNo prior experience is necessary—just bring your imagination (and a friend or two!) and prepare for a night of artistic fun and laughter. Whether you go bold and dramatic or elegant and mysterious\, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind creation you’ll be proud to wear. \nAll materials are included\, and light refreshments will be served. Space is limited\, so be sure to reserve your spot today! \nLet’s craft\, connect\, and celebrate the art of disguise—see you there!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/lets-make-masks/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Specialty
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T091500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T101500
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250826T155208Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T155208Z
UID:20006610-1758273300-1758276900@gortoncenter.org
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-september-19/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250708T172357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T154518Z
UID:20006487-1758308400-1758313800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Line It Up Line Dancing
DESCRIPTION:Grab Your Boots and Get Ready to Line Dance!\nDust off your cowboy boots\, throw on your hat\, and slip into your favorite jeans—it’s time to saddle up for a fun-filled evening of line dancing! Whether you’re brand new to line dancing or just want to brush up on your moves\, this beginner-friendly class is the perfect place to start. \nWe’ll kick things off with the basics\, breaking down each step in a relaxed and welcoming environment. No partner or line dancing experience is needed—just a willingness to have fun and try something new! \nThroughout the evening\, you’ll learn a variety of popular country and pop line dances that are performed at parties\, weddings\, and dance halls around the world. From classic country favorites to high-energy modern hits\, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. \nCome solo or bring a group of friends—everyone is welcome. You’ll leave with a smile\, a few new moves\, and maybe even a new favorite hobby! \nLesley has been dancing her whole life. She’s been classically trained in Ballet and Jazz. She’s been teaching dance for 40 years. She currently works at Lake Forest Health and Fitness and Life Time Fitness in Vernon Hills. Her super power is making everyone feel successful.  \n\nPre-Show Dinner AT Gorton from The Gallery + Lucky Duck\nRather than rushing through dinner at a restaurant\, The Gallery + Lucky Duck will bring dinner to you at Gorton! \nSimply click on the order link above to reserve a table and pre-order your meal.  Your brown box dinner will be waiting for you at Gorton’s casual dining area at 6pm. \nSeating is limited so reserve your table today!  Place your dinner order by Wednesday\, September 17th.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/line-it-up-line-dancing/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Music,Specialty,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250819T163128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250822T161859Z
UID:20006554-1758358800-1758364200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:College Application Process Overview for Parents
DESCRIPTION:Unsure of how the college application process works or not sure how to begin? Join us for a full overview of the process\, learn what is most important for applicants and complete a “You are the Admissions Officer” activity. Designed for parents of high school sophomores and juniors this information session will help you gain confidence in the process and answer your important questions. \nThis College Application Process Information Session is led by Susan Morris and Melissa Williams of Thrive U Education. Thrive U Education is an independent college search consultancy that helps families unravel the college application process by providing a clear plan\, explaining how to proceed at every step\, and teaching your student how to complete important college application milestones. Susan is the founder of Thrive U Education as well as an Independent Education Consultant specializing in recognizing what makes each student unique and special\, and Melissa is an Independent Educational Consultant and freelance writer\, focusing on college application essays as well as counseling.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/college-application-process-overview-for-parents/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T222548
CREATED:20250723T133651Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T143023Z
UID:20006497-1758358800-1758366000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Mr. V.’s Fall Saturday Production
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an encore production of an original musical celebration of the cinematic chiller thrillers of yesteryear\, just in time for Halloween! Participants will travel back in time to 1961\, when a double feature cost only a quarter\, and classic movie characters like The Mummy\, Creature From The Black Lagoon\, Godzilla\, and King Kong appeared on the silver screen. There will be buzzing surprises\, fun frights\, and sheer delights for all! \nAges 4-11 \nSaturdays Sept. 20-Oct. 25\, 9:00 am to 11:00 am \nPerformance: Sat. October 25 at 10 am \nPrice: $325 \n \nBill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma\, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award\, IEA Human Rights Award\, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice\, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois\, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children\, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature\, history\, culture\, and adventure. \n  \n\n  \n  \n \nAbout Our Artistic Director: Jeremy Kruse\, Artistic Director of Gorton Drama Studio is the author of “The Young Actor’s Handbook” (Applause Acting Series\, 2017).The book was published in Korean and Chinese in 2022. Jeremy is a professional actor\, published playwright\, award-winning screenwriter\, and award-winning filmmaker. Some of the classes he taught at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York include Method Acting\, Comedic Improvisation\, Sketch Comedy Writing\, and Acting for Film and TV. He graduated from The Strasberg Institute at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he majored in drama. Jeremy also teaches privately\, one on one  www.jeremykruse.com and www.jeremykruseactingtraining.com 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mr-vs-fall-saturday-production/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Classes,Events,Gorton Drama Studio,Performing Arts,Youth
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