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SUMMARY:EV Fine Arts: Jewelry Design Camp
DESCRIPTION:Jewelry Design Camp: Create\, Shine & Showcase!\nGet ready to sparkle! In this exciting\, hands-on jewelry design camp\, young creators will have the opportunity to design and craft their very own unique jewelry pieces from start to finish. \nThroughout the week\, campers will learn from experienced young fashion designers who will guide them through the art of working with polymer clay to create beautiful handmade necklaces\, bracelets\, earrings\, and more. From color mixing and shaping to adding personal touches\, students will explore their creativity while developing real design skills. \nAt the end\, campers will show off their creations in a fun end-of-week fashion show\, where family and friends are invited to celebrate their hard work and creativity on display! \nEach camper will complete at least five original pieces to take home\, and all materials and supplies are included in the camp price. Whether your child is a budding designer or just loves to make things with their hands\, this camp is a perfect blend of fun\, fashion\, and artistic expression. \nNo prior experience is necessary\, just bring your imagination and enthusiasm! \nFor those students who are looking to attend more than one week of camp\, please note that each week will feature a different series of projects as well as new clay colors and designs to choose from. Ages 6 – 13 \n \nElena Victoria is a local fashion designer who has gone on to find her true passion in teaching youth how to design and sew their own clothing and jewelry through her program\, EV Fine Arts. Come learn from real fashion designers in the industry and start making your own handmade jewelry!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/ev-fine-arts-jewelry-design-camp-4/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Specialty,Youth
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DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T120000
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CREATED:20250128T161919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T172212Z
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SUMMARY:Overture STEAM Music Camp
DESCRIPTION:Discover Music Through Video Games – A Summer Adventure with Overture Games!\nGet ready for a one-of-a-kind music camp experience where music meets gaming! With Overture Games\, kids will embark on an exciting journey through a STEAM-based musical world\, where they’ll explore the building blocks of music in the most fun and interactive way possible: through video games designed to teach rhythm\, melody\, composition\, and collaboration. \nCampers will dive into game-based challenges that help them develop real musical skills while they play. They’ll compose their own tunes\, master rhythm patterns\, and even collaborate with other campers to jam together in musical mini-games. It’s learning without pressure where creativity is encouraged and every win is a chance to grow. \nNo previous music experience is required! Our professional musician mentors will guide and inspire campers throughout the week\, helping them discover the joy of making music in a way that feels more like play than practice. Whether your child is a budding musician or simply curious about sound and games\, this camp will spark imagination and boost confidence. \nAlong the way\, campers will build essential skills like creativity\, critical thinking\, problem-solving\, and teamwork—all in a welcoming and fun environment where making friends is just part of the adventure. \nSo grab a controller (or a keyboard)\, and let’s make some music! This summer\, it’s game on at Overture music camp! \nGrades 3rd – 6th \nAspen Buckingham and Steven Jiang\, co-founders of Overture Games\, are on a mission to revolutionize music education through video games. Aspen\, a Northwestern University alumnus\, has a background in music composition and computer science. Steven\, also a Northwestern graduate\, holds degrees in economics and music performance. Their passion for music entrepreneurship has earned them recognition on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and the Chicago Inno 25 Under 25 list.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/overture-steam-music-camp-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Camps,Classes,Games,Specialty,STEM,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091935
CREATED:20240207T194147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T155637Z
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SUMMARY:Pajama Party Sewing Camp with Ciao Bella
DESCRIPTION:Sewing Pajama Party Camp: Creative Fun with Fabric and Friends!\nGet ready for a fun-filled\, creative pajama party like no other! In this exciting sewing camp\, students will learn how to sew using a sewing machine while creating some amazing projects. Perfect for both new and returning sewers\, this camp offers a perfect blend of learning and hands-on crafting in a relaxed\, friendly atmosphere. \nThroughout the week\, campers will work on making several adorable and practical items\, including PJ pants\, a cozy pillow\, a stylish sleepover tote bag\, and a cute\, custom mini-cosmetic case. Whether they’re a sewing newbie or already have some experience\, students will gain new skills and confidence in working with fabric\, patterns\, and sewing machines. \nUnder the expert guidance of Ciao Bella Sewing\, every camper will be provided with all the necessary supplies\, including fabric\, sewing machines\, and sewing notions. Students are also welcome to bring their own sewing machine if they prefer. \nBeyond sewing\, this camp is all about having SEW much fun! It’s a great opportunity for students to meet new friends\, bond over their creations\, and enjoy the rewarding experience of making something special from scratch. \nEach day\, students should bring a water bottle and a healthy snack to keep them energized as they work on their projects. \nWhether it’s their first time sewing or they’re returning for more\, this sewing camp is the perfect way to spark creativity and build confidence. \nAges 8 – 15
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/pajama-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:20250714T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091935
CREATED:20250123T165159Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T154232Z
UID:20006286-1752487200-1752494400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Mixed-Media Art Camp
DESCRIPTION:Mixed-Media Art Camp: Create\, Explore\, and Express!\nLet your child’s creativity soar in this exciting mixed-media art camp taught by Jennifer Evans of Periwinkle Art Studio\, where young artists will dive into a world of color\, texture\, and self-expression! This camp is perfect for kids who love to experiment\, get a little messy\, and think outside the box when it comes to creating art. \nThroughout the week\, campers will explore a wide range of materials including paint\, oil and chalk pastels\, stencils\, rubber stamps\, collage elements\, markers\, and more. They’ll learn to combine these mediums in fun and unexpected ways\, creating layered\, vibrant\, and unique pieces of artwork. \nUsing a variety of techniques and non-traditional tools\, such as sponges\, found objects\, and even their hands\, campers will discover new ways to apply paint and add personal touches to their creations. \nThis camp is all about creative freedom and artistic exploration\, allowing students to develop their skills while having fun in a relaxed\, supportive environment. \nThis art camp welcomes all skill levels. Whether your child is a budding artist or just loves making things\, they’ll leave inspired\, confident\, and excited about their creative potential. \nAges 7 – 14
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-camp-with-periwinkle-art-studio-mixed-media-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Camps,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250715T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250715T100000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091935
CREATED:20250701T165201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T165201Z
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SUMMARY:Yoga with Areta
DESCRIPTION:Yoga With Areta \nAreta will guide you through a traditional vinyasa flow yoga class incorporating poses\, breathwork and meditation. This bi-weekly one-hour practice will help release tension and bring you back into balance while opening\, lengthening and strengthening the body.  Whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner\, this mindful flow class will leave you feeling renewed and energized.  Bring a mat and a water bottle. \nTraditional Vinyasa Flow Yoga is a dynamic style of yoga that emphasizes the synchronization of breath and movement as practitioners flow through a sequence of poses. It combines the ancient practice of yoga with a modern approach that focuses on creating a fluid and rhythmic movement pattern. Vinyasa Flow is known for its creative sequencing and the way it allows practitioners to explore their bodies\, breath\, and minds in a harmonious way. \nTaking a yoga class can offer a variety of physical\, mental\, and emotional benefits including improving cardiovascular health\, reducing stress and tension and leaving you feeling more energized 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-class/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250715T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250715T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091935
CREATED:20230824T123605Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T151422Z
UID:20002760-1752580800-1752584400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Divorcing with Dignity
DESCRIPTION:Considering Divorce? Learn About a Healthier Path Forward\nAre you or someone you know thinking about divorce? Navigating this emotional and complex process can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it uninformed. This workshop is designed to help you understand your options and explore the path that may be best for your unique family situation. \nWhy Mediation?\nDivorce mediation is a collaborative\, respectful process that empowers couples to make all of their own decisions—about parenting\, finances\, property division\, child support\, and alimony—without turning to the courts. If both partners can communicate and are willing to be fair and reasonable\, mediation offers a way to move forward with dignity and mutual respect. \nMediation significantly reduces the emotional and financial costs often associated with traditional divorce litigation. It also minimizes the stress placed on children\, helping families transition more smoothly into their next chapter. \nWhat You’ll Learn\nIn this informative session\, you’ll learn: \n\n\nWhat divorce mediation is and how it works \n\n\nThe key requirements for successful mediation \n\n\nThe benefits of choosing mediation over traditional litigation \n\n\nHow mediation can protect your emotional\, financial\, and family well-being \n\n\nA Better Way Through Divorce\nMediation is the least expensive\, least time-consuming\, and least adversarial way to end a marriage. It puts decision-making power in your hands—not in a judge’s—and fosters a cooperative environment that prioritizes the best interests of everyone involved\, especially children. \nJoin us to discover whether divorce mediation is the right choice for you or someone you care about. \nIf you cannot attend in-person\, you can contact Michael Cohen through his website at michaelsmediation.com to meet 1:1 to review this same information confidentially. \nMichael Cohen is a divorce mediator in Lake Forest who is dedicated to helping families get through the stressful process of a divorce in the healthiest way for the couple and for their children.  During a successful career leading diverse teams for a large local company\, Michael trained at Northwestern University to gain his divorce mediation certification and has built a practice whose purpose is to help others.  Michael is a caring\, empathetic leader who will take the time to understand your passions and priorities\, and will guide you to help you create the best solutions for you and your families. 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/divorcing-with-dignity-6/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250716T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250716T101500
DTSTAMP:20260404T091935
CREATED:20241219T184028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T191044Z
UID:20006243-1752656400-1752660900@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Kundalini Yoga
DESCRIPTION:Kundalini Yoga: The Yoga of Awareness\nKundalini yoga combines postures\, conscious breathing\, mantra\, music\, and meditation. Each class usually starts with an opening chant to help you “tune in.” Then\, you’ll do a warm-up that focuses on the spine. After that\, the class moves into a series of postures called a “kriya.” These postures use specific breathwork and often include chanting. Finally\, the class ends with relaxation or meditation\, all designed to activate your “Kundalini energy.” These practices help balance your body and mind\, allowing you to experience clarity and the beauty of your soul. \nEvery class focuses on a specific theme to support your body and mind in different ways. Therefore\, join us and discover a practice that helps you tap into your unlimited potential. \nYou don’t need any previous yoga experience to participate. Bringing a mat and blanket will make you more comfortable in class. \nJennifer is a Holistic Occupational Therapist. She specializes in healing methods like reiki\, meditation\, ancestral clearing\, craniosacral therapy\, and energy healing. Jennifer loves helping people connect with their unlimited potential. She works with individuals and groups of all ages\, from newborns to older adults. Teaching how to move energy through breath\, visualization\, and meditation is one of her favorite parts of her work. Additionally\, she enjoys helping people heal and find joy in their spirit. As a mom\, wife\, and healer\, Jennifer knows how important self-care is. She believes healing both personally and together is deeply meaningful and beautiful life work. For more information on meditations and classes\, visit intuitlove.com or contact Jennifer directly at JenniferLauren@nullintuitlove.com or 224-500-7797.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kundalini-yoga/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250716T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250716T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091936
CREATED:20230523T192658Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T202226Z
UID:20002369-1752687000-1752690600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Women's Self Defense with Fit 2 Defend Academy
DESCRIPTION:Women’s Self-Defense Workshop: Empowerment Through Action\nJoin us for a dynamic and empowering self-defense workshop designed specifically for women of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or looking to refresh and refine your skills\, this class provides a supportive and inclusive environment where you can learn practical\, real-world techniques that truly work. \nLed by the experienced team at Fit 2 Defend\, this workshop combines a short\, informative lecture with hands-on practice. You’ll learn how to protect yourself across multiple ranges of defense\, understand the importance of situational awareness\, and gain insight into the golden rules of self-defense that can help prevent dangerous encounters before they happen. \nThrough realistic scenarios and step-by-step instruction\, you’ll build physical skills\, mental preparedness\, and the self-assurance needed to respond effectively under pressure. Fit 2 Defend has trained and empowered hundreds of women with great success\, and now it’s your turn to take the first step toward personal safety and empowerment. \nCome dressed to move\, bring water\, and get ready to leave this workshop feeling stronger\, smarter\, and more confident in your ability to defend yourself. \nAges 13 +
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/womens-self-defense-with-fit-2-defend/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091936
CREATED:20230301T230537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T145853Z
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SUMMARY:Babysitting & Child Safety
DESCRIPTION:Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) Certification Class\nPrepare for babysitting success with the Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program from MEDIC First Aid—an engaging and informative course designed specifically for teenagers and young adults who want to build confidence in caring for children. \nWhether you’re looking to start a babysitting business or simply want to be a more responsible sibling\, this course covers everything you need to know to babysit safely\, responsibly\, and professionally. From how to get started and communicate with parents\, to caring for infants and young children\, this class teaches critical skills in a fun and relatable format using a magazine-style student guide and vlogger-inspired videos. \nParticipants will learn important topics including: \n\nStarting and marketing a babysitting business\nUnderstanding the expectations of parents and caregivers\nBasic child development and age-appropriate play\nFeeding\, diapering\, and bedtime routines\nSafety and emergency preparedness\nBasic first aid and how to respond to common injuries and emergencies\n\nHands-on training and practice are central to this course. Through realistic scenarios and interactive learning\, students will gain the knowledge and experience needed to handle babysitting situations with calmness and confidence. To successfully complete the class and earn a certificate\, students must demonstrate competency in all required skills without assistance. \nThis class offers an excellent opportunity for participants to strengthen their leadership skills and gain practical experience in caring for children. Students will also learn valuable safety techniques and build a strong sense of responsibility. \nAges 12+\nPlease feel free to bring lunch\, a snack\, a water bottle\, and wear comfortable clothes!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/babysitting-child-safety-3/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Classes,Specialty,Wellness,Youth
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091936
CREATED:20250718T190859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T190859Z
UID:20006490-1752922800-1752926400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tai Chi
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/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T091936
CREATED:20221203T044750Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T165901Z
UID:20002232-1752926400-1752933600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Accelerated Class: Reiki Levels I & II 7/19
DESCRIPTION:Discover the Healing Power of Reiki\nReiki is a Japanese energy healing practice that supports physical\, emotional\, and mental balance. It uses gentle touch to channel universal life energy into the body\, helping to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The word Rei means “universal life\,” and Ki means “energy\,” so Reiki literally translates to Universal Life Force Energy. \nThis holistic practice is based on the belief that all living things are sustained by a vital life force. When this energy flows freely\, the body can maintain health and balance. Through Reiki\, practitioners aim to restore this flow\, facilitating healing at physical\, emotional\, and spiritual levels. \nUsing the practitioner’s hands\, Reiki energy is transferred to the recipient\, calming the nervous system and enhancing overall well-being. Many find it to be a deeply soothing and grounding experience. \nWhat You’ll Learn in Our Accelerated Reiki Class\nOur Accelerated Reiki Class is open to everyone and includes both Reiki Level I and Level II certifications. In this course\, participants will: \n\nLearn the core Reiki symbols and their meanings\nReceive clear\, step-by-step instruction from an experienced teacher\nGain hands-on practice with energy work\nEarn a Reiki II certificate upon completion\n\nYou’ll leave the class with the knowledge and confidence to practice Reiki on yourself\, others\, and even animals. \nMeet Your Instructor: Melissa MacTaggart\nMelissa MacTaggart is a certified Reiki Master Teacher who has trained in the Usui method—the oldest form of Reiki. She studied at Zaanti Reiki and Sat Nam Yoga in Chicago\, and founded Blossom and Bee Reiki in 2018. \nMelissa has led Reiki workshops in both Los Angeles and Chicago. Her passion for energy healing began in her teenage years\, sparking a lifelong journey into the mind-body connection. Today\, she considers Reiki her most beloved modality because of its transformative\, radiant power. \nHer mission is to help others discover peace and balance through energy work. Melissa’s mantra is\, “Let’s move energy together.”
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/accelerate-class-reiki-levels-i-ii/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Wellness
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gorton Center 400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest IL 60045;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 East Illinois Road:geo:-87.8374004,42.2506703
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR