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SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEME: PETS & PUPPIES\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-smit-march/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270305T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270305T201500
DTSTAMP:20261005T182159Z
CREATED:20260914T211849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T182159Z
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SUMMARY:Grotto Dance-Spring 2027
DESCRIPTION:Spring into the Grotto!\nDon’t miss the beloved Grotto Dance\, returning to to Gorton Center on Friday\, March 5\, 2027\, at 7:00 PM! This longtime 6th grade dance tradition in Lake Forest moves to spring this year as we renovate our space. \nGrab your friends and get ready to dance! Join us for a high-energy night packed with music\, dancing\, raffle prizes and plenty of fun with fellow 6th graders. \nThe party takes over both the Grotto and Stuart Room. A DJ keeps the music going\, while dancing fills both floors. Move between spaces\, meet up with friends and enjoy everything the night has to offer. \nDance Time: 7:00-8:15 pm\nDress Code: Attire is dressy casual\, no jeans or athleisure please!  Wear comfortable shoes for lots of fun dancing!\nCell phone are prohibited at the event.  Cell phones will be collected and not available for pickup until the Monday following the dance.\n \nGrotto Dance Rules:\n\n All parent(s) and kids must read through and discuss Code of Conduct together\n Parent(s) should explain to their kids that any destruction of property or lack of respect for authority will result in expulsion from the dance\n In order to complete your ticket purchase\, you must check the box that you and your child agree to the Code of Conduct\nCell phones are strictly prohibited and will be collected if found.  Cell phones may not be picked up until Monday September 29th.\n\nVIEW CODE OF CONDUCT  \nHelp Make the Night Unforgettable!\nYour support helps bring the Grotto Dance to life! Consider making a donation to help create a fun\, memorable night for our kids. Every gift makes a difference. Thank you for supporting this special tradition!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/grotto-dance-spring-2027/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270310T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270310T203000
DTSTAMP:20260910T194319Z
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SUMMARY:Silent Book Club March 2027
DESCRIPTION:What is Silent Blook Club? Silent Book Club is a global community of readers with 2\,200+ chapters in 70 countries. There’s no assigned reading — it’s bring your own book. \nMore than a million members gather in person\, online\, and in destinations around the world to read together and swap stories. All readers are welcome! And now\, we have a chapter in Lake Forest! \nA Silent Book Club event looks like this: \n7:00-7:20pm – People arrive\, order drinks/food\, share what they’re reading\n7:20-8:30pm – Quiet reading hour\n8:20-8:30pm (or longer if you wish) – optional socializing \nGorton concessions will be available during this event – soft drinks/beer/wine and popcorn and candy will be on site if you would like a snack during the event. \nWhile this event is free\, we ask that you register in advance so we can plan for the right number of attendees.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/silent-book-club-march-2027/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270312T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270312T210000
DTSTAMP:20260820T154854Z
CREATED:20260820T125807Z
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SUMMARY:Rendezvous Arts: Haymarket Opera Company
DESCRIPTION:Haymarket Opera Company\nThey’re back. \nAfter one of our most popular Rendezvous programs to date\, Haymarket Opera Company returns for another unforgettable evening of music\, drama\, and Baroque extravagance. \nHaymarket brings the operatic world of the 17th and 18th centuries vividly to life. The musicians perform on period instruments and embrace the theatrical traditions of the time. The result is anything but distant or delicate. \nThis music is passionate. Funny. Dramatic. Virtuosic. And completely alive. \nFor this Rendezvous program\, soprano Emily Birsan and tenor (TBA) take center stage. They’re joined by Jeri-Lou Zike and Martin Davids on violin\, Craig Trompeter on cello\, and Brandon Acker on theorbo. \nHaymarket has earned national acclaim from The New York Times\, Chicago Tribune\, and Musical America. Audiences far beyond Chicago have also embraced the ensemble and its thrilling approach to period performance. \nBut you don’t need to know anything about Baroque opera to love this evening. \nCome hear extraordinary singers and remarkable instruments up close. Experience music that has captivated audiences for centuries\, performed just a few feet away. \nOld music. Incredible musicians. Absolutely nothing old-fashioned about it. \nFeatured Visual Artist: Max Li\nOur featured visual artist for this program is Max Li\, an interdisciplinary artist from China now based in Chicago. \nWorking across photography\, tintype\, installation\, object-making\, and digital media\, Max explores how meaning is shaped through memory\, ritual\, place\, and lived experience. His work often unfolds over time\, inviting viewers to notice how repetition\, participation\, and everyday encounters can transform the way we see an object or space. \nMax holds an MFA from the University of Chicago and a BFA with Honors from the University of California\, Irvine. Beyond his studio practice\, he develops cultural programs and collaborative projects throughout Chicago\, including work that activates civic and sacred spaces through exhibitions\, performances\, workshops\, and community gatherings.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/rendezvous-arts-haymarket-opera-company/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music,Performing Arts
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270320T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270320T130000
DTSTAMP:20260624T182840Z
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SUMMARY:Babysitting and Child Safety
DESCRIPTION:Prepare for babysitting success with the Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program from MEDIC First Aid—an engaging and informative course designed specifically for teenagers and young adults who want to build confidence in caring for children. \nWhether you’re looking to start a babysitting business or simply want to be a more responsible sibling\, this course covers everything you need to know to babysit safely\, responsibly\, and professionally. From how to get started and communicate with parents\, to caring for infants and young children\, this class teaches critical skills in a fun and relatable format using a magazine-style student guide and vlogger-inspired videos. \nParticipants will learn important topics including: \n\nStarting and marketing a babysitting business\n\n\nUnderstanding the expectations of parents and caregivers\n\n\nBasic child development and age-appropriate play\n\n\nFeeding\, diapering\, and bedtime routines\n\n\nSafety and emergency preparedness\n\n\nBasic first aid and how to respond to common injuries and emergencies\n\nHands-on training and practice are central to this course. Through realistic scenarios and interactive learning\, students will gain the knowledge and experience needed to handle babysitting situations with calmness and confidence. To successfully complete the class and earn a certificate\, students must demonstrate competency in all required skills without assistance. \nThis class offers an excellent opportunity for participants to strengthen their leadership skills and gain practical experience in babysitting. Students will also learn valuable safety techniques and build a strong sense of responsibility. \nAges 12+\nPlease feel free to bring lunch\, a snack\, a water bottle\, and wear comfortable clothes!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/babysitting-and-child-safety-march-20/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Specialty,Wellness,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270320T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270320T160000
DTSTAMP:20260623T192944Z
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SUMMARY:CPR\, AED and Optional First Aid Course
DESCRIPTION:* THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE!  1.5 or 4.5 HOURS ONLINE @ HOME AND 2.5 HOURS IN-PERSON!\nThis blended learning style Basic CPR and AED class with optional First Aid is a must have basic skill everyone should learn. This class will not satisfy a BLS requirement. You will learn how to perform life-saving skills such as rescue breathing\, CPR\, and managing an obstructed airway for all ages. Also\, learn how to use an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). \nThis course is designed by the Health Safety Institute\, a worldwide leader in CPR\, AED and First Aid emergency care training programs. Students will receive a certification valid for two years\, upon successful completion of the course. Class materials include a digital reference book and digital certification card issued upon successful completion of the in-person skills class. \nONLINE\nThe on-line prerequisite class is self-paced. It is best to use a PC to complete. We will send you the link for the online portion once we reach our registration minimum. If you have not received your learning link by 1 week prior to class\, please contact instructor (Tanya 847-989-7056). CPR and AED only will take approximately 1.5  hour.  CPR\, AED\, and optional First Aid will take up to 4.5 hours. The instructor will send you an email with the class options. A learning link can not be assigned until you choose your option. \nIN-PERSON (At Gorton Center)  \nIn-Person skills class is the same for both options and will take approximately 2.5 hours. Wear comfortable clothing. Most of the practice will take place on the floor. A kneeling pad is provided but students may also want to bring a yoga mat or towel to lie on floor. Please inform instructor prior to class if accommodations are needed to explore options. Students must be able to properly compress the chest of the manikin to successfully complete the class. \nAges 12+ \n*Please reach out to Libby Johnson with any questions! 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cpr-aed-and-optional-first-aid-course-march-20/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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