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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260615T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260615T150000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260327T180355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T180647Z
UID:20007126-1781517600-1781535600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Red Cross Blood Drive
DESCRIPTION:Give the Gift of Life at Gorton’s Monthly Blood Drive\nJoin us at the Gorton Center for our monthly blood drive\, proudly hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. Your donation can help save lives – and it only takes a little of your time to make a big difference. \n How to Participate\nPre-registration is required and takes just a few minutes. Click the link below to reserve your spot – walk-ins cannot be accommodated. \nBefore You Donate\n\nEat a healthy meal.\nDrink an extra 16 oz. of water and fluids beforehand.\nBring a photo ID\, your blood donor card\, or two other forms of identification.\n\nSave Time with RapidPass\nYou can speed up your visit by completing a RapidPass on the day of your donation. This allows you to complete the pre-donation reading and health history ahead of time. \nVisit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass for details. \nWe’re so grateful for your generosity. Thank you for supporting the Gorton community and helping the American Red Cross save lives through the power of blood donation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/red-cross-blood-drive-21/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T200000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260423T191030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T192522Z
UID:20007218-1782241200-1782244800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Sing at Gorton - Music of the '80s and '90s
DESCRIPTION:Come Sing at Gorton!\nJoin us for the first Sing at Gorton community sing – a no cost easy\, joyful way to come together through music. Dave Hiltebrand leads this one-night event with host Rich Torres\, and features favorite hits from the ’80s and ’90s. \nNo experience is needed\, and there’s no future commitment. Just show up ready to sing. First\, we’ll warm up together. Next\, we will spend 45–60 minutes singing through a mix of familiar songs in a relaxed\, informal setting. Afterward\, stay for refreshments and conversation. \nWhether you love to sing in the car\, in the kitchen or with friends\, this is a fun way to connect with others through music. \nThe songs we will sing are:\nFree Fallin’ – Tom Petty\nEverybody Wants To Rule the World – Tears for Fears\nTwo Princes – Spin Doctors\nI Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys \nGood to know:\n\nNo experience or vocal training needed\nOne-time event with no ongoing commitment\nHosted by Rich Torres and Led by Dave Hiltebrand\n45–60 minutes\nRefreshments afterward\n\nMeet Your Hosts\n\nDave Hiltebrand has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music\, Dave has extensive experience as a performer\, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the national tour of Jersey Boys\, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs\, composing work for The Oprah Winfrey Show\, Nike and Allstate\, TV appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show\, Empire and Betrayal\, and tours to South Africa\, Cuba\, Spain\, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar\, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. \n  \n \nRich Torres has always had an interest in audio and video production. It dates all the way back to eighth grade when he walked into the television studio at Gordon Tech High School. Seeing the lights and cameras lit a fire in him and he chose to pursue an A/V career. It has been a long and winding road for Rich. He studied at Indiana University and worked as a reporter for the Fine Arts/NPR radio station while also working as a videographer for the IU Sports Information Department. After college\, Rich worked at the Chicago Board of Trade as a clerk\, Poplar Creek Music Theatre as the House Manager and then worked as an on-air talent and producer at WCKG and WXCD radio stations in Chicago. Rich started work in the A/V department at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates where he eventually headed the department before landing at the Gorton Community Center. Rich has a son in college and likes to spend his spare time playing golf or tennis and other sports or playing guitar and listening to music and attending concerts. \n  \nYou Belong Here\nSing at Gorton is a welcoming community sing series designed to bring people together in a fun\, informal way. Each event is themed around a different style of music\, led by local hosts and open to everyone — no experience or vocal knowledge necessary. These one-off gatherings last about 45–60 minutes and end with refreshments\, making it easy to join in\, connect and sing.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/sing-at-gorton-music-of-the-80s-and-90s/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Community,Events,Live Music,Music,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260706T150000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260327T180732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T180732Z
UID:20007122-1783332000-1783350000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Red Cross Blood Drive
DESCRIPTION:Give the Gift of Life at Gorton’s Monthly Blood Drive\nJoin us at the Gorton Center for our monthly blood drive\, proudly hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. Your donation can help save lives – and it only takes a little of your time to make a big difference. \n How to Participate\nPre-registration is required and takes just a few minutes. Click the link below to reserve your spot – walk-ins cannot be accommodated. \nBefore You Donate\n\nEat a healthy meal.\nDrink an extra 16 oz. of water and fluids beforehand.\nBring a photo ID\, your blood donor card\, or two other forms of identification.\n\nSave Time with RapidPass\nYou can speed up your visit by completing a RapidPass on the day of your donation. This allows you to complete the pre-donation reading and health history ahead of time. \nVisit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass for details. \nWe’re so grateful for your generosity. Thank you for supporting the Gorton community and helping the American Red Cross save lives through the power of blood donation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/red-cross-blood-drive-20/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260708T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260708T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251218T194045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155808Z
UID:20006874-1783538100-1783545300@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-31/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T203000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260526T145412Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T142102Z
UID:20007266-1784228400-1784233800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Talking Football with Kevin Warren
DESCRIPTION:Talking Football\nJoin Gorton Center for an unforgettable night with Chicago Bears President & CEO Kevin Warren. In a live conversation with acclaimed interviewer and author David Sweet\, Warren will share an inside look at Bears football\, NFL leadership\, and the future of the Chicago Bears organization. \nDiscover how the Bears are evolving on and off the field. Hear Warren discuss the changing landscape of the NFL\, the business of professional football\, and the role sports play in shaping culture\, community\, and leadership in Chicago and beyond. \nIn addition\, fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at the traditions\, passion\, and legacy that make Bears fans some of the most loyal in the NFL. From franchise vision to league-wide challenges and opportunities\, this special event offers rare access to one of the most influential leaders in professional sports. \nWhether you are a lifelong Chicago Bears fan\, a football enthusiast\, or interested in sports leadership and NFL culture\, Talking Football with Kevin Warren promises an engaging evening filled with compelling stories\, expert conversation\, and exclusive insider perspective. \nAbout Kevin Warren\n\n \nKevin Warren\, Chicago Bears President and CEO\, oversees both the football and business operations and is also focused on the stadium development project for the franchise. Warren is the fifth President in the 107-year history of the Chicago Bears and is in his 25th season in the NFL. \nWarren joined the Bears in 2023 after four years as Commissioner of the Big Ten Conference. He was the first Black commissioner of any Power Five conference. At the Big Ten\, Warren led the conference expansion to 16 schools with the integration of UCLA and USC while also negotiating an unprecedented media rights deal that will generate over $7 billion during the seven-year term of the deal. Warren also created the Big Ten Equality Coalition\, a nonpartisan group committed to combatting racism\, in additional to developing a mental health and wellness cabinet. \nPrior to leading the Big Ten Conference\, Warren spent 15 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings\, including the last five years as COO\, bringing U.S. Bank Stadium to life in 2016\, which is still rated as one of the best sports venues in the world. Warren earned a Super Bowl ring during the 1999 season with the then-St. Louis Rams\, while serving as Vice President of Player Programs & Football Legal Counsel. \nAdditionally\, Warren serves as a member of the board of directors of Grand Canyon Education\, a publicly-traded company (LOPE) and is a member of the university’s hall of fame for his contributions on the basketball court as an undergraduate student before attending Arizona State University (MBA) and Notre Dame Law School (JD). \nWarren has been married for 34 years and has two children. \nAbout David Sweet\n \nDavid Sweet is an accomplished author\, journalist and storyteller whose work brings history\, sports and defining moments vividly to life. Drawing on decades of experience as a writer\, reporter\, interviewer\, researcher and editor\, he has crafted compelling narratives across books\, magazines\, digital media and corporate communications. \nSweet is the author of two acclaimed nonfiction sports books: Three Seconds in Munich: The Controversial 1972 Olympic Basketball Final\, an in-depth look at one of the most disputed moments in Olympic history\, and Lamar Hunt: The Gentle Giant Who Revolutionized Professional Sports\, a portrait of the visionary owner whose influence reshaped modern athletics. \nHe launched weekly columns for The Wall Street Journal and NBCSports.com and has written extensively on sports\, business\, travel and culture for magazines and websites nationwide. He writes “The Sporting Life” and “Unsung Gems” for Classic Chicago magazine\, contributes regularly to Chicago District Golfer magazine and serves as executive editor of the City of Lake Forest blog. \nSweet has also produced and written books celebrating historic institutions and communities\, including Elawa Farm in Lake Forest\, a landmark restoration project designed by architect David Adler\, and a 125th-anniversary history of a Chicago-area golf club that helped shape the early days of American golf and hosted the U.S. Open. He is currently writing a commemorative book for the Winter Club’s 125th anniversary\, highlighting generations of hockey championships\, iconic toboggan runs and community traditions. \nIn addition\, Sweet has crafted brand histories and strategic storytelling projects for companies including Corona beer and ESD (now Stantec)\, while also developing newsletters\, blogs and communications materials that strengthen organizations and connect with audiences. A sought-after speaker and interviewer\, Sweet regularly presents at libraries\, organizations and community venues\, discussing his books and interviewing notable authors and media personalities\, and has acted as moderator for Gorton Center’s TALKING SPORTS series for several years..
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/talking-football-kevinwarren/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Family & Kids,Speakers
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260719T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260719T183000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260421T194517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T152029Z
UID:20007141-1784476800-1784485800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Gorton’s 5th Annual Cornhole Classic & Concert
DESCRIPTION:5th Annual Cornhole Classic & Concert\nSunday\, July 19 \, 2026 \nCheck-In: 3:30 pm | Cornhole Tournament Begins at 4:00 pm Rain or Shine – We’ll move the party indoors if needed! \nReady to toss bags\, sip local brews\, and rock out with friends?\nJoin us for a summer evening of fun at our Cornhole Classic & Concert! Whether you’re in it to win it or just here for the music\, this event is built for good times and great company. \n\nWhat to Expect\n\nLive Music from The Luxmen\nFree skills challenges with prizes for winners – Pop-a-Shot | Long Toss | Bonus Games\nDelicious Food Trucks!\nThat unbeatable mix of friendly competition and community fun!\n\n\nRegistration and Pricing-Two Divisions!\nFamily Division- $60 Early Bird Pricing! \nOne 2-Person TeamFamily Division teams must have at least team member aged 12 or under \nCompetitive Division – $60 Early Bird Pricing! \nOne 2-Person Team \nBuy your team now!  Prices increase week prior to event to: $70 Family Division / $80 Adult Competitive Division \nVIP Bar Access Add-On- $50 \nEnjoy bar access and included drinks while you toss and mingle! For participants ages 21+ only \nImportant Info: \n\nRegistration closes Saturday\, July 18 at 2 pm\nWalk-ins welcome (space permitting) until 3:45 pm\n3:30 – Check-in opens\n4:00 pm – Tournament begins\n6:30 pm – Championship round and prizes!\nLive music throughout the afternoon/evening\n\n\nLive Music by The Luxmen\nGet ready to dance\, sing\, and celebrate with The Luxmen\, a high-energy band bringing nonstop fun with crowd-favorite hits from every era. From classic rock to today’s favorites\, their lively performance keeps audiences of all ages on their feet and the party going all night long. \n\nTournament Details\n\nNo pros allowed – just great players and good sportsmen\nRound-robin format with a 3-game minimum per team\nACO rules apply\nTeams of two – bring a friend and defend your title (or seek redemption!)\nChampionship game starts around 6:30 pm\nPrizes for first and second place!\n\nFamily Division Notes:\n\nFamily Division teams must have at least one player aged 12 or under\nShortened throw line for kids\n\nRegistration closes Saturday\, July 18 at 2 pm – Walk-ins welcome if space allows by 3:45 pm \n\nFood & Extras\n\nFood available for purchase throughout the event from local vendors\nFree activities for kids (life size games\, bubbles and bean bag toss)\n\n\nSponsorships\nCorporate and Individual sponsorships available- includes a set of customized boards! Email Ann for more information. \n\nDon’t Miss Out!\nGrab your teammate\, bring your friends and join us for one of the best events of the summer!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/5th-cornhole-classic-concert/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Family & Kids,Live Music
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260721T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260721T193000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260423T194906Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T211449Z
UID:20007219-1784658600-1784662200@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Sing at Gorton - Americana with Mr. V
DESCRIPTION:Come sing with us at this all-ages Americana community sing led by Bill Vaananen. Part of the Lake Forest 250th Celebration\, this special Sing at Gorton gathering brings people together through songs we know and love. \nFirst\, we’ll warm up! Next\, we will sing a selection of familiar favorites\, including “Take Me Home\, Country Roads\,” “This Land Is Your Land\,” “The City of New Orleans” and “If I Had a Hammer.” No experience is necessary\, and there’s no future commitment – just a chance to share music in a welcoming\, low-pressure setting. \nThe event runs about 45–60 minutes\, followed by refreshments and time to connect. \nGood to know:\n\nOpen to all ages – bring the whole family\nNo experience or vocal knowledge necessary\nOne-off event with no future commitment\nPart of the Lake Forest 250th Celebration\nLed by Bill Vaananen\nRefreshments afterward\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. \nSing at Gorton is a welcoming community sing series designed to bring people together in a fun\, informal way. Each event is themed around a different style of music\, led by local hosts and open to everyone — no experience or vocal knowledge necessary. These one-off gatherings last about 45–60 minutes and end with refreshments\, making it easy to join in\, connect and sing.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/sing-at-gorton-americana-with-mr-v/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Community,Events,Live Music,Music,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260810T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260810T150000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260327T180831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T180831Z
UID:20007128-1786356000-1786374000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Red Cross Blood Drive
DESCRIPTION:Give the Gift of Life at Gorton’s Monthly Blood Drive\nJoin us at the Gorton Center for our monthly blood drive\, proudly hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. Your donation can help save lives – and it only takes a little of your time to make a big difference. \n How to Participate\nPre-registration is required and takes just a few minutes. Click the link below to reserve your spot – walk-ins cannot be accommodated. \nBefore You Donate\n\nEat a healthy meal.\nDrink an extra 16 oz. of water and fluids beforehand.\nBring a photo ID\, your blood donor card\, or two other forms of identification.\n\nSave Time with RapidPass\nYou can speed up your visit by completing a RapidPass on the day of your donation. This allows you to complete the pre-donation reading and health history ahead of time. \nVisit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass for details. \nWe’re so grateful for your generosity. Thank you for supporting the Gorton community and helping the American Red Cross save lives through the power of blood donation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/red-cross-blood-drive-aug10/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251218T194153Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155800Z
UID:20006875-1786562100-1786569300@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-32/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251218T194258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155752Z
UID:20006876-1788981300-1788988500@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-33/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T203000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260309T224909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T142233Z
UID:20007079-1789585200-1789590600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The High School Transition with Gail Gamrath
DESCRIPTION:Help Your Teen Start High School with Confidence\nThe transition to high school is a major milestone for students and families. It can also bring stress and uncertainty. New social dynamics\, tougher coursework\, and greater independence often leave even confident students feeling overwhelmed. \nIn this informative presentation\, parents and caregivers will learn what the high school transition really requires. We’ll explore the academic\, social\, and emotional changes students face. Then we’ll share practical ways to support them. \nDrawing on expertise in adolescent development\, executive function\, and academic skills\, Gail offers clear\, realistic strategies. Parents will learn how to build confidence\, reduce anxiety\, and encourage independence. As a result\, students can start high school feeling prepared and supported. \n \n  \nAttendees will leave with: \n\n\nA clearer understanding of the emotional and academic challenges of the high school transition \n\n\nPractical tools to support organization\, studying and time management \n\n\nStrategies that reduce anxiety while encouraging independence \n\n\nConfidence in knowing when and how to seek help \n\n\nA roadmap for partnering with their student – and the school – during this exciting stage of growth \n\n\nAbout Gail Gamrath\, M.Ed.\nGail Gamrath is a professional speaker\, life coach and parent education consultant with more than 30 years of experience in public education\, including two decades leading student services at a large suburban Chicago high school. \nGail helps families to work together to support struggling students and foster healthy\, resilient teens. Known for her warmth\, humor\, and practical strategies\, she delivers presentations that inspire and equip audiences to take meaningful action at home and in the school community. \nA mom to three\, she brings empathy\, real-life perspective\, and a student-centered approach that helps families and learners feel confident and supported.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-high-school-transition-with-gail-gamrath/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Speakers
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T200000
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20260520T210519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T143401Z
UID:20007262-1791313200-1791316800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Chip Leighton: Dad Can You Not?
DESCRIPTION:Dad Can You Not?\nGet ready for a night of comedy\, parenting stories\, and laugh-out-loud honesty with viral comedian and author Chip Leighton. \nOn Monday\, October 6\, Chip Leighton (@the_leighton_show) comes to Gorton Center to discuss his new book\, Dad\, Can You Not? A Dad’s Guide to Being Less Cringey. Known for his wildly popular parenting videos and relatable humor\, Chip has built a massive online following by turning everyday family moments into comedy gold. \nNow\, he brings that humor to the stage for a live event designed for parents\, grandparents\, caregivers\, and anyone raising kids in today’s world. \nDuring the evening\, Chip will share: \n\nFunny stories from parenting and family life\nInsights from Dad\, Can You Not?\nTips for surviving the “cringe dad” era\nBehind-the-scenes stories from social media\nA live audience Q&A\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter the discussion\, guests can purchase copies of Dad\, Can You Not? from The Book Stall. In addition\, Chip Leighton will stay for a book signing following the event. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’ve ever embarrassed your kids at school drop-off\, struggled to understand teenage slang\, or told a joke that landed badly\, this event is for you. \nIn addition\, guests will enjoy a fun and interactive evening filled with humor\, connection\, and relatable parenting moments. \nWhy You Should Attend\nChip Leighton combines comedy with real-life parenting experiences. As a result\, audiences leave feeling entertained\, understood\, and less alone in the chaos of family life. \nFurthermore\, his new book offers a hilarious look at modern parenting while encouraging dads to embrace the awkward moments that come with raising kids. \nSpecial Things You Must Know\nDads\, enjoy an exclusive 20% off coupon to Smith’s Men’s Store in Lake Forest or Winnetka with proof of ticket. \n \n  \n \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/chip-leighton-dad-can-you-not/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Performing Arts,Speakers
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261014T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261014T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251223T212046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155745Z
UID:20006879-1792005300-1792012500@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-34/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251223T212337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155738Z
UID:20006880-1794424500-1794431700@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-35/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T211500
DTSTAMP:20260614T202326
CREATED:20251223T212519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155730Z
UID:20006881-1796843700-1796850900@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Do Not Submit-Lake Forest
DESCRIPTION:Storytelling Open Mic-WALK-INS WELCOME\n  \nDNS takes place the second Wednesday of every month. No Cover Charge!\n  \nDo Not Submit Lake Forest takes place in a cozy room at Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Each month\, it opens the door to a welcoming storytelling open mic. From the start\, the atmosphere is enthusiastic\, supportive\, and free from pressure\, judgment\, or scoring. \nBecause of that\, no experience is required. Instead\, everyone is encouraged to join in or simply listen. \nTo participate\, arrive at 7:15 pm to sign up. Then\, when your name is called\, you’ll have up to seven minutes to share. You can tell\, read\, tap dance\, or perform in any way you like. The story can be personal\, fictional\, essay-style\, or even about proper flossing. Throughout the evening\, all language and content are welcome\, with the exception of hate speech. \nFinally\, there’s no cover charge. Plus\, beer\, wine\, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase\, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night. \nHosted by Jasmin Rodriguez\, Suzie Garfield & Lisa Parr \nAbout Your Hosts:\n  \nJasmin Rodriguez is a trained actress with over a decade of experience spanning stage\, commercial\, film\, and storytelling work. Most recently\, she appeared in commercials for the Illinois Lottery and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her film credits include several independent projects\, such as Market Value and Faithful Disappointments. She also served as a stand-in and double for the dynamic Miranda Mayo—known for her role as Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire—during Seasons 5 and 6\, where she gained extensive on-set training and professional production experience. Jasmin completed her acting training at Second City\, Vagabond\, Wheaton Drama\, and Gorton Drama Studio. Known for her dedication\, strong work ethic\, and commitment to continual growth\, she is always seeking opportunities to sharpen her craft. Currently\, Jasmin works as an MC for DO NOT SUBMIT – Lake Forest Open Mic\, where she shares heartfelt—and often quirky—stories that energize and engage audiences. Outside of her creative work\, she enjoys power walks by the lake\, bike riding\, active involvement with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston\, and traveling throughout Europe. \nLisa Parr: Lisa taught studio art and art history before launching an international business restoring historic landmark carousels. Her expertise in original paint and early design also serves legal and insurance clients in the art world. Fascinated by ancient myths and Celtic traditions\, she conducts on-site research in Scotland. In recent years\, Lisa has added storytelling to her list of creative pursuits\, performing in Lake Forest\, Highland Park\, and beyond. For fun\, she restores antique toys and vintage sports cars—and yes\, she drives them\, too. \nSuzie Garfield: Suzie believes that everyone has stories worth telling—many of them. Her own path has included raising two sons\, working in tech and education\, and diving deeply into lifelong learning. Now retired from traditional work\, she stays busy exploring opera\, theater\, museums\, and\, of course\, storytelling. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her to seek new experiences and share them with others.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/do-not-submit-lake-forest-36/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR