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SUMMARY:Beginner Color Pencil - Black Paper with Phil Schorn
DESCRIPTION:Discover the Art of Colored Pencil Drawing\nWhether you’re a complete beginner or simply curious to explore a new artistic medium\, this engaging course is designed to introduce you to the beauty and versatility of colored pencils. In fact\, far beyond what you may remember from childhood or coloring books\, colored pencil is a powerful fine art tool. It can produce stunning detail\, rich color\, and expressive depth. \nIn this class\, you will first learn the foundational skills needed to begin your journey with colored pencils. Next\, we will cover essential topics such as the different types of pencils and paper available. From there\, you will discover how to apply color effectively and then practice techniques such as layering and blending in order to create depth and vibrancy in your drawings. \nEach session will not only introduce new techniques but also provide hands-on projects. As a result\, your confidence and skill will steadily grow. By the end of the course\, you will have completed 2–3 finished renderings\, each one designed to help you apply what you’ve learned in a creative and supportive environment. \nExperienced Artists Welcome\nIf you already have experience working with colored pencils\, you are welcome to join as well. Instead of following the beginner projects\, you may choose to focus on your own rendering. Meanwhile\, I will be available to provide individualized guidance and support so that you can take your work to the next level. \nUltimately\, this course offers an opportunity to experience how colored pencils can become a truly expressive and rewarding fine art medium. Therefore\, all levels are welcome! \nSUPPLIES TO BE PURCHASED BY PARTICIPANT: – Can be order thru Blicks Art Supply\, Amazon\, etc.\n48ct Prismacolor softcore pencils (or larger set\, set of 72 is usually a few dollars more)\n1 – 9×12 300 series Strathmore Smooth Bristol Pad\n1 – Blick or Prismacolor colorless blending pen\nPencil sharpener (electric or manual) – I will have a couple to use.\nSmooth surface to draw on\, (drawing boards will be available)\nClean soft paint brush (or a drafting brush) \n \nPhilip Schorn – P Schorn Studio – Botanical Color Pencil Artist His botanical renderings are not scientific studies of plant specimens. They are artistic interpretations of plants. He notices shapes\, light\, and shadows in the ground around him. He often focuses on a single detail – an individual leaf\, a flower\, or a small fragment of earth. In this way\, he brings those details to life. He has worked with colored pencil for several years and has taught the art for the past three. \nPhilip is currently teaching online from his home since March. He teaches online color pencil classes for other art studios/galleries\, private classes and Facebook demos. He has published two books featuring his art and techniques and has done a number of outdoor shows\, group and individual exhibitions. \nPhilip’s process of making a rendering with the detail that he wants to have requires a significant amount of time. Sometimes he uses other media\, such as ink\, watercolors or pastels.\n Philip is a member of the Color Pencil Society of America\, Grayslake Arts Alliance and the Lake County Art League. His studio is located in Grayslake. \nEmail: phil@nullpschornstudio.com   FB: pschornstudio/
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/beginner-color-pencil-black-paper-with-phil-schorn/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T153000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20260112T155531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T215112Z
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SUMMARY:Beginner Watercolor Pencil Art
DESCRIPTION:Explore the Unique Beauty of Watercolor Pencil \nWatercolor pencil is a versatile\, yet often overlooked\, medium. It combines the vibrant flow of watercolor with the precision of colored pencil. Because of this unique quality\, it opens the door to endless creative possibilities. In this fun and accessible course\, you’ll dive in and discover how to unlock its full potential step by step. \nThis class is designed for beginners as well as anyone curious to try something new. To begin\, you’ll explore the different types of watercolor pencils and papers. Next\, you’ll practice applying color both dry and wet. After that\, you’ll learn how to layer and blend effectively. Finally\, you’ll activate pigment with water to achieve luminous\, painterly effects. As you move through each stage\, you’ll see how the medium offers both expressive washes and fine detail – all with the stroke of a pencil. \nEach session will build on the last. First\, new techniques will be introduced. Then\, guided projects will give you the chance to practice them right away. Consequently\, your skills will grow consistently and your confidence will strengthen. By the end of the course\, you will have completed 2–3 finished renderings that showcase the versatility and beauty of watercolor pencil art. \nExperienced Artists Welcome \nIf you already have experience with watercolor pencils\, you’re encouraged to join as well. Instead of following the beginner projects\, you may choose to focus on a personal piece. Meanwhile\, I’ll provide feedback\, answer questions\, and offer individualized guidance. In this way\, you can refine your skills and take your work to the next level. \nUltimately\, this course will guide you through a journey of discovery. Step by step\, you’ll see how watercolor pencils can expand your creativity and become a powerful tool in your artistic practice. Therefore\, all levels are welcome! \nSupplies to be Purchased by the Participant \nCan be order thru Blicks Art Supply\, Amazon\, etc.\nArtist Grade Watercolor Pencils (have a good color selection 24+ colors\, does not have to be Prismacolor)\nMix Media Smooth Paper or a smooth Watercolor Paper (Hot Press)\nPencil Sharpener (manual or electric)\n#1 round Watercolor Brush*\n1/8″ Angle Shader Watercolor Brush*\nDrawing Board (the foam boards at Hobby Lobby work great)\n*NOTE: Having a selection of small/medium watercolor brushes is great. \n \nPhilip Schorn – P Schorn Studio – Botanical Color Pencil Artist His botanical renderings are not scientific studies of plant specimens. They are artistic interpretations of plants. He notices shapes\, light\, and shadows in the ground around him. He often focuses on a single detail – an individual leaf\, a flower\, or a small fragment of earth. In this way\, he brings those details to life. He has worked with colored pencil for several years and has taught the art for the past three. \nPhilip is currently teaching online from his home since March. He teaches online color pencil classes for other art studios/galleries\, private classes and Facebook demos. He has published two books featuring his art and techniques and has done a number of outdoor shows\, group and individual exhibitions. \nPhilip’s process of making a rendering with the detail that he wants to have requires a significant amount of time. Sometimes he uses other media\, such as ink\, watercolors or pastels.\nPhilip is a member of the Color Pencil Society of America\, Grayslake Arts Alliance and the Lake County Art League. His studio is located in Grayslake. \nEmail: phil@nullpschornstudio.com   FB: pschornstudio/
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/beginner-watercolor-pencil-art-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
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LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T175141Z
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SUMMARY:Open Play Mahjong
DESCRIPTION:Please plan to arrive early\, play starts promptly at 10am!\nCalling all Mahjong enthusiasts. Join us for Open Play Mahjong\, a relaxed and social way to enjoy the game you love. These sessions are for intermediate to advanced players who already know the rules. No instruction is offered. \nBring your strategy and a little friendly competition. Connect with other experienced players. Open Play is a great way to practice\, stay sharp\, and enjoy the challenge of Mahjong. \nWe provide all Mahjong sets. Please bring your own Mahjong card. \nPre-registration is required. Drop-ins can’t be accommodated\, so be sure to register early to save your spot. \nWe look forward to seeing you at the table.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/open-play-mahjong-february-4/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20260112T194724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T222352Z
UID:20006935-1770219000-1770224400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:After School Art Club with Lezlie
DESCRIPTION:Do you have a budding artist in the family? Give their creativity room to grow in this engaging after-school art class designed specifically for students in Grades 1–4! \nEach class is thoughtfully structured to balance artistic freedom with meaningful learning. We begin with a free-draw session\, allowing students time to warm up\, express themselves\, and get their creative energy flowing. From there\, we dive into the world of art history by introducing an “Artist of the Day”—a renowned or influential figure whose work provides the inspiration for that day’s project. \nStudents will explore various artistic movements\, mediums\, and styles from around the world\, helping them gain a broader understanding of art and its cultural significance. With guidance and encouragement\, they’ll create their own artwork inspired by the featured artist\, putting their personal spin on classic techniques while developing new skills and confidence. \nThe class wraps up with group clean-up\, an age-appropriate art discussion that encourages observation and expression\, and a fun “draw-a-long” activity to reinforce what they’ve learned in a playful and supportive way. \nMore than just an art class\, this is a space where young artists can explore\, reflect\, and connect with the wider world through creativity. It’s a perfect opportunity for self-expression\, experimentation\, and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts and global perspectives.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/after-school-art-lezlie-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T173000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20251209T183034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T183034Z
UID:20006821-1770220800-1770226200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:Draw & Paint with Joalida\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T091500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T101500
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20260121T184459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T184459Z
UID:20006973-1770369300-1770372900@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. Learn more about Esther and SALSArobics.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/salsarobics-february-6/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Music,Wellness
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20260109T193049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T171017Z
UID:20006925-1770404400-1770411600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Palette & Pour: Happy Hearts
DESCRIPTION:THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELLED. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT SESSION ON MARCH 6!\nPalette & Pours: Happy Hearts Inspired by Jim Dine – A Wine & Paint Night for Adults\nGet ready for Palette & Pours – a lively\, adults-only night where art and wine flow together! This isn’t your average painting class. It’s a chance to laugh\, sip\, and let your creativity shine. \nThis session’s theme\, Happy Hearts\, is inspired by the work of Jim Dine\, a renowned American artist known for his personal and expressive pop art style\, and sets the stage for bold colors and expressive brushwork.  \nBut this evening is about more than just technique. Art has a way of relaxing the mind and lifting the spirit. With each brushstroke\, you’ll let go of stress and slip into a creative flow. Whether you’re an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the very first time\, you’ll discover just how joyful and freeing painting can be. \nAnd don’t worry – you won’t be alone. Talented local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz will guide you step by step\, making sure you feel supported while still encouraging your personal style. You’ll learn\, laugh\, and create at your own pace. By the end of class\, you’ll have an original painting you’ll be proud to take home. \nOf course\, no Palette & Pours night would be complete without a glass in hand. All painting materials are included\, along with complimentary wine to enjoy while you work. Prefer something else? Bring your favorite beverage and sip as you create. \nSo paint hearts with a friend\, a date\, or come solo and make new connections. Either way\, you’ll leave with more than just a painting – you’ll walk away with memories\, laughter\, and maybe even a brand-new hobby. \n*All wine will be included. Guests are also welcome to bring their own if they would like!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/palette-pour-happy-hearts/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062153
CREATED:20260122T203927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T203927Z
UID:20006981-1770458400-1770462000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Mr. V's Winter Games Performance
DESCRIPTION:“Winter Games” Performance \nJoin us in the Grotto Theater downstairs at Gorton Center on Saturday\, Feb. 7th for the Gorton Drama Studio performance of Mr. V.’s “Winter Games.”  Performance begins at 10 a.m.  Doors open for parents and guests at 9:45 a.m.  The performance will last approx. 40 minutes. \n\nSat. Feb. 7\n10 a.m.\nAdults $10\, Children $5\n\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-winter-games-performance/
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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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062154
CREATED:20260128T204504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T204504Z
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SUMMARY:Tai Chi
DESCRIPTION:Tai 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\, it is a valuable exercise for all ages\, read about the health benefits below. Dress comfortably and be prepared to have fun in Ken’s class. \nHealth Benefits \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 it is equivalent to brisk walking. So\, instead of worrying about your steps (how boring)\, join Ken’s 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? \nIt 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-february-7/
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:20260207T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T062154
CREATED:20251217T175324Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T175324Z
UID:20006865-1770469200-1770472800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Good Grief Pet Loss
DESCRIPTION:Coping with the Loss of a Pet\nJoin Jessica from the Animal Hospital of West Lake Forest for a heartfelt session on understanding pet loss. This event is for anyone grieving a pet or supporting someone who is. \nPets are more than animals—they are family\, companions\, and sources of comfort. Losing them brings deep grief that’s often overlooked or misunderstood. Jessica will explain why this loss feels so intense and why it’s different from other types of grief. \nNavigating the Emotions\nPet loss can trigger many emotions\, including sadness\, guilt\, loneliness\, and anger. These feelings are valid and real. Jessica will help participants better understand these reactions and explore the emotional impact of losing a beloved pet. Mourning a pet can be difficult in a world that may not fully acknowledge that loss. Jessica will talk about the lack of societal support and the importance of recognizing the pet-owner bond. \nFinding Healing and Offering Support\nThis session offers tools and guidance for healing. Jessica will share strategies to help you move through grief and support others on their journey. Whether you’re personally grieving or want to be there for someone else\, you’ll leave with insight and compassion. \nEveryone Is Welcome\nAll pet lovers are invited to attend. This session creates a safe\, understanding space to honor your pet’s memory and learn how to cope with loss from someone who truly understands. \nJessica is a CVT who has served the Lake Forest and surrounding communities at the Animal Hospital of West Lake Forest since 2004.  She is a wife and mother of 4 with 4 dogs of her own. She is passionate about helping navigate the various aspects of pet loss.  
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/good-grief-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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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
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