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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T090000
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DTSTAMP:20261104T181124Z
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LAST-MODIFIED:20261104T181124Z
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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-nov-10/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T193000
DTSTAMP:20261006T175351Z
CREATED:20260629T135752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261006T175351Z
UID:20007333-1794333600-1794339000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Art Impact Project: I Am Thankful For...
DESCRIPTION:THIS CLASS IS SOLD OUT. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT ONE ON DECEMBER 8!\nPractice the art of gratitude by creating a thoughtful pen and watercolor project.  This project will have you leaving the art room feeling refreshed and thankful for life’s treasures. \nAll supplies provided.  Ages 11+ \n \nThis class is free\, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.  \nCelebrating their tenth anniversary\, Art Impact Project is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.  They partner with organizations such as schools\, treatment facilities\, libraries\, and other community spaces throughout Lake County\, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.  Providing a supportive\, small group setting\, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art. \nWant to take this class but can’t make this date? Check out our other Art Impact Class on Tuesday\, December 8! \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-i-am-thankful-for-nov-10/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T200000
DTSTAMP:20260817T160200Z
CREATED:20260806T165419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T160200Z
UID:20007422-1794335400-1794340800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Postcard Project: Gratifood
DESCRIPTION:The Postcard Project is a creative workshop series designed to bring people together for meaningful connection and artistic expression. Over the course of four monthly sessions\, participants will create hand-illustrated and handwritten postcards to send to friends\, family\, or even strangers. Each session explores a different theme\, encouraging reflection\, gratitude\, imagination\, and authentic connection.\nThis project is about stepping away from screens and the fast pace of digital communication—and returning to something tangible\, thoughtful\, and lasting. Whether you’re an artist\, a writer\, or just someone craving deeper connection\, this workshop welcomes all skill levels and backgrounds. \n• All Materials Provided (postcard blanks\, pens\, paints\, stamps)\n• Short Creative Warm-Ups + Guided Prompts\n• Collaborative & Quiet Time to Create\n• Optional Sharing Circle at End \nGratifood Tuesday\, November 10th\, 6:30-8:00\nA gratitude-focused session where we reflect on who we’re thankful for and the food and traditions that bind us. A hand illustrated postcard will show your appreciation through words and images.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/postcard-project-gratifood/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T200000
DTSTAMP:20260813T163438Z
CREATED:20260813T163438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T163438Z
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SUMMARY:Introduction to Reiki
DESCRIPTION:Discover the Healing Power of Reiki \nReiki is a Japanese energy healing practice that supports physical\, emotional\, and mental balance. In this introductory class\, you will learn foundational techniques for self-care\, stress reduction\, and deep relaxation. The word Rei means “Universal life” and Ki means “energy”—so Reiki literally translates to Universal Life Force Energy. \nA Path to Self-Discovery and Healing \nFor many\, Reiki becomes more than just a wellness practice. It can be a spiritual journey\, helping individuals connect more deeply with universal energy and themselves. Taking this class can expand your spiritual practice and offer valuable insights into your emotional and energetic well-being. \nDuring this workshop\, you’ll explore the basics of energy work and consider whether you’d like to pursue further training. This session is perfect for those curious about energy healing and interested in supporting their own health. \nIf you’re looking for one-on-one guidance\, Melissa is also available for private lessons. You can contact her directly at melissamactaggart@nullsbcglobal.net. \nMeet Your Instructor: Melissa MacTaggart \nMelissa MacTaggart is a certified Reiki practitioner and master teacher. She studied the traditional Usui methodology\, the oldest form of Reiki practice. Her training took place at Zaanti Reiki and Sat Nam Yoga in Chicago. \nIn 2018\, she founded Blossom and Bee Reiki. Since then\, she has led workshops in both Los Angeles and Chicago. Melissa’s passion for the mind-body connection began in her teenage years\, and she has explored many forms of energy healing. Reiki quickly became her favorite modality. She describes it as a radiant\, peaceful practice that flows through you and radiates outward. \nMelissa’s joy lies in helping others find balance and healing through energy work. Her mantra says it all: “Let’s move energy together.”
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/introduction-to-reiki-nov-11/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T183000
DTSTAMP:20260804T172801Z
CREATED:20260804T172801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T172801Z
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SUMMARY:Felted Bookmark Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Turn reading time into crafting time in this colorful wet felting workshop for kids! Young artists will discover how soft wool transforms into sturdy felt using water\, soap\, and gentle movement. Then they’ll use their handmade felt to create a one-of-a-kind bookmark.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNext\, each child will cut their felt into a bookmark shape and decorate it with beads and other fun embellishments. They can mix colors\, add patterns\, and create a design that reflects their own style. Every bookmark will be unique. \nAlong the way\, children will build confidence while exploring a new fiber art technique. They will practice creativity\, fine motor skills\, and problem-solving in a fun and supportive environment. This beginner-friendly class makes it easy to learn the basics of wet felting while enjoying the creative process. \nAt the end of the workshop\, each participant will take home a colorful handmade bookmark to enjoy or give as a thoughtful gift. All materials are provided. \nAges 9 – 12
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/felted-bookmark-workshop/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T193000
DTSTAMP:20261102T171332Z
CREATED:20260901T160058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261102T171332Z
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SUMMARY:Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion Gallery & Studio
DESCRIPTION:This introductory workshop will guide participants through creating dimensional floral sculptures using air-dry clay while exploring shape\, texture\, botanical forms\, and sculptural techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to personalize their flowers and create a finished piece that reflects their individual style. \nAges 10+ WITH ADULT
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/dry-clay-flower-sculpture-with-dandelion-gallery-studio/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T203000
DTSTAMP:20260820T195515Z
CREATED:20260813T160007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T195515Z
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SUMMARY:Gather & Give Thanks: Harvest Wine Tasting
DESCRIPTION:Gather & Give Thanks: A Harvest Wine Tasting\nThoughtfully crafted wines and pairings for the Thanksgiving table \nCelebrate the warmth and abundance of the harvest season with a guided tasting featuring small-production\, sustainably crafted wines selected for autumn gatherings and the Thanksgiving table.\nGuests will explore a versatile collection of sparkling wines\, food-friendly whites\, and expressive reds from small independent winemakers committed to sustainable\, organic\,\nor biodynamic farming and thoughtful winemaking practices. Each wine will be selected to complement seasonal favorites\, from appetizers and roasted vegetables to turkey\, savory side dishes\, and desserts.\nAlong the way\, discover how acidity\, body\, fruit\, and texture can help create thoughtful Thanksgiving pairings. Whether you are hosting\, bringing a bottle\, or gathering with\nfriends\, this experience will offer approachable inspiration for the season. The tasting will include tasting materials and small bites. Wines presented and provided by Oakwood Vines\, Lake Forest\, IL.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/gather-give-thanks-harvest-wine-tasting/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Cooking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T114500
DTSTAMP:20261104T145252Z
CREATED:20261102T162218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261104T145252Z
UID:20007668-1794646800-1794656700@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Mr. V Holiday Musical
DESCRIPTION:Mr. V’s Holiday Musical \nThe Merry Mystery of Market Square \nAttention Kids 4-11!  Join Mr. V. in a sparkling holiday musical fantasy set right here in Lake Forest!  “The Merry Mystery of Market Square” is a nostalgic celebration of America’s first shopping center:  our own Market Square designed by famed architect and Lake Forest resident Howard Van Doren Shaw.  When many in the present day do their holiday shopping online\, our performers will return to the public square once again to sing\, laugh\, and shop together in the warm community of friends and neighbors.  The designer himself may even join in the fun!  The show will include classic holiday songs as well as brand new Mr. V. originals.  Come celebrate in the toasty warmth of a frosty evening “where everything’s cool” in the days leading to Christmas!   \nPerformance Date: December 12 @ 11am \nAges 4 – 11
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/mr-v-holiday-musical/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Music,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T094500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T104500
DTSTAMP:20261022T170527Z
CREATED:20261022T161907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261022T170527Z
UID:20007627-1794649500-1794653100@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tai Chi for Beginners
DESCRIPTION:Tai Chi for Beginners\nDiscover the gentle\, flowing practice of Tai Chi in this beginner-friendly class. Learn simple movements that help you slow down\, focus\, and connect with your body. \nWe’ll start with basic Tai Chi footwork and stances. You’ll learn how to shift your weight\, improve your balance\, and move with greater control. We’ll also practice simple Qigong exercises to encourage mindful breathing and relaxed movement. \nAs you build confidence\, you’ll explore foundational Tai Chi movements. Each movement combines gentle motion with focused breathing and awareness. We’ll also include meditation to help you quiet the mind and create a sense of calm. \nThis class welcomes beginners of all experience levels. Move at your own pace and enjoy a supportive environment as you learn the basics of this ancient practice. \nCome ready to breathe\, move\, and discover a new way to support balance\, focus\, and relaxation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/tai-chi-for-beginners-nov-3/
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:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T140000
DTSTAMP:20260817T155353Z
CREATED:20260813T164152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T155353Z
UID:20007462-1794650400-1794664800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Accelerated Reiki Levels I & II
DESCRIPTION:Reiki Accelerated Class 1 and 2\nDiscover 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. Her 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/accelerated-reiki-levels-i-ii-november-14/
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:20261114T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20261007T185949Z
CREATED:20261005T212817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261007T185949Z
UID:20007597-1794654000-1794657600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Paws and Palettes
DESCRIPTION:🐾 Paws & Palettes 🎨 🐾 \nCalling all little animal lovers! Get ready to create\, care for\, and adopt a brand-new furry friend in this fun\, hands-on craft experience. \nChildren will start by choosing their very own pet. Then the creativity begins! They’ll decorate and personalize their new friend to make it completely unique. Next\, kids will create their own pet grooming supplies and build a cozy bed or house where their pet can feel right at home. \nAlong the way\, children can let their imaginations take the lead. They’ll pretend to groom\, care for\, and nurture their new companion while bringing their own pet stories to life. \nTo finish the experience\, each child will officially adopt their pet with a special adoption certificate. Then they’ll take their new friend and handmade accessories home to continue the fun. \nThis playful class combines arts and crafts\, imaginative play\, and hands-on creativity. It’s a wonderful way for young animal lovers to create something special while practicing kindness\, responsibility\, and care.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/paws-and-palettes/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Specialty,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20261023T152705Z
CREATED:20261022T160924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261023T152705Z
UID:20007623-1794654000-1794657600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tai Chi
DESCRIPTION:Tai Chi with Ken Ning\nSign 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-3-nov-3/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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END:VEVENT
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