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SUMMARY:LILO & STITCH
DESCRIPTION:Lilo & Stitch (2025) is a live-action and CGI reimagining of the 2002 animated classic. The film stars Maia Kealoha as Lilo\, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as her older sister Nani\, and Zach Galifianakis\, Billy Magnussen\, and Chris Sanders returning as the voice of Stitch. It brings the beloved story to life with real actors\, modern effects\, and the vibrant setting of Hawaii.\n\n\n\n\n\nThe story follows Lilo\, a spirited young girl who feels lonely and struggles to fit in. When Stitch\, a mischievous alien experiment\, crash-lands on Earth\, Lilo adopts him\, thinking he’s a strange dog. At first\, Stitch causes chaos\, but Lilo teaches him about love\, belonging\, and ohana—the Hawaiian idea that family means no one gets left behind or forgotten. \nNani works tirelessly to keep the family together after their parents’ deaths and faces pressure from social services. The film balances heartwarming moments with wild humor as Stitch’s antics drive both trouble and growth. Lilo’s lessons help Stitch understand empathy\, while Stitch helps Lilo navigate her fears and loneliness. Together\, they strengthen their bond and inspire those around them. \nVisually\, the film blends live-action performances with seamless CGI to make Stitch and other alien characters feel real in Kauaʻi’s lush landscapes. Hawaiian culture and scenery shine throughout\, grounding the story in its unique setting. The narrative updates the original tale while keeping its core themes of acceptance\, resilience\, and family. \nLilo & Stitch (2025) premiered in May 2025 and quickly became a box office success. Its mix of comedy\, emotion\, and spectacle appeals to longtime fans and newcomers alike. At its heart\, the film celebrates the power of love\, friendship\, and family\, showing that even in chaos\, connection and loyalty can bring people—and aliens—together. \nDirector: Dean Fleischer Camp \nStars: Maia Kealoha\, Sydney Agudong\, Chris Sanders
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/lilo-stitch/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260215T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260215T173000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20251016T173012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T152539Z
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SUMMARY:Yoga for Grief & Stress Release
DESCRIPTION:THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELLED. PLEASE CHECK BACK FOR RESCHEDULED DATES.\nYoga for Grief & Stress Release\nGrief and stress don’t just live in the mind – they also take root in the body. They often show up as tight shoulders\, heavy fatigue\, headaches\, or even chronic pain. Over time\, these emotions can become trapped within us\, influencing how we move\, breathe\, and feel. As Dr. Bessel van der Kolk reminds us\, “the body keeps the score.” In other words\, our bodies remember what our minds try to forget. Therefore\, true healing must include both body and mind working together. \nIn this extended yoga class\, you’ll gently slow down and reconnect with yourself. First\, you’ll be guided through a mindful\, slow flow designed to help you move with intention. Then\, as you settle into each long hold\, you’ll begin to release tension and make space for calm. Gradually\, you’ll notice how the body softens\, the breath deepens\, and the nervous system begins to unwind. Step by step\, you’ll learn to listen to your body’s cues and respond with kindness. \nThe Magic of Breathwork\nFurthermore\, breathwork will play a central and powerful role. By focusing on steady\, conscious breathing\, you’ll discover how the rhythm of the breath can quiet the mind\, regulate the body’s stress response\, and restore a sense of safety. In addition\, restorative poses will invite deep rest – allowing your body to reset from the inside out. During these still moments\, you’ll find that your body naturally begins to let go of what no longer serves it. \nThis trauma-aware yoga class welcomes everyone. Whether you are a caregiver\, navigating grief\, recovering from trauma\, or simply seeking peace\, this class offers support and renewal. You don’t need any prior yoga experience – only a willingness to show up\, breathe\, and be present. \nAs the class unfolds\, you’ll gradually cultivate greater self-awareness and compassion for your body’s wisdom. By the end\, you’ll likely feel grounded\, lighter\, and more at ease. Ultimately\, you’ll discover that healing doesn’t always require words; instead\, it often begins with a single breath\, a gentle stretch\, and a safe place to move and rest. \nSo come as you are. Here\, you’ll find a space to release\, restore\, and reconnect – one mindful moment at a time. \n \nLara N. Dotson-Renta\, PhD is a longtime writer\, educator and scholar of languages (Spanish and French). She is also a 500hr RYT yoga instructor with trauma informed yoga training through The Veteran’s Yoga Project and children’s yoga training from Full of Joy Yoga in CT. She is also a trained death doula through INELDA (The International End of Life Doula Association). She is interested in helping others live life more fully and intentionally. \nShe resides in Lake Bluff with her family.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/yoga-for-grief/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260215T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20251210T173452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T164140Z
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SUMMARY:BLACKkKLANSMAN
DESCRIPTION:BlacKkKlansman is a gripping crime drama directed by Spike Lee\, based on the true story of Ron Stallworth\, the first Black detective in Colorado Springs. Set in the early 1970s\, the film explores race\, identity\, and systemic racism while blending suspense\, dark humor\, and social commentary. \nRon Stallworth faces prejudice and skepticism even within his own department. When he discovers the Ku Klux Klan is gaining influence in Colorado Springs\, he creates a bold plan: to infiltrate the local chapter and gather intelligence. He conducts phone calls and correspondence with the Klan\, gradually gaining their trust. \nFor in-person meetings\, Ron enlists Flip Zimmerman\, a white Jewish colleague\, to attend in his place. Together\, they balance deception with careful investigation while confronting the danger of infiltrating a violent hate group. Their work exposes the Klan’s extremist ideology\, internal divisions\, and dangerous plans. \nThe film mixes tense thriller elements with satire and social critique. Lee shows both the absurdity and cruelty of the Klan\, contrasted with Ron’s calm courage. The friendship between Ron and Flip highlights the intersections of race\, religion\, and identity\, showing solidarity in the face of oppression. \nBlacKkKlansman also speaks to today’s world\, showing how racism and hate persist over time. Its visuals\, performances\, and soundtrack create a story that is thrilling\, entertaining\, and thought-provoking. At its core\, the film is about courage\, resilience\, and standing up to injustice. Ron Stallworth’s undercover work demonstrates how one person’s bravery can challenge deeply entrenched systems of hatred and make a lasting impact. \nDirector: Spike Lee \nStars: Alec Baldwin\, John David Washington\, Isiah Whitlock Jr.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/blackkklansman/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260216T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260216T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20251221T165318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T152048Z
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SUMMARY:"Mr. V.'s Day Off" - Presidents' Day
DESCRIPTION:“Mr. V.’s Day Off” – Presidents’ Day\nKids ages 4-11:  Kick off the celebration of America’s 250th birthday with award-winning music educator and composer Mr. V! Join Bill Vaananen as he leads students in a series of  thrilling\, powerful\, and delightful songs and scenes that will present a tapestry of American history celebrating its past presidents and other notable historical figures. Sign up for full day or half day.\n \nOption #1:  Half day – 9 am-noon $55\nOption #2:  Half day  – noon-3 pm $55\nOption #3:  Full day – 9 am-3 pm $110  \n\n Monday\, Feb. 16\n9 am-3 pm\nAges 4-11\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 \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-v-s-day-off-presidents-day-monday/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Age,Camps,Classes,Gorton Drama Studio,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260216T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260216T200000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20260204T145138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T025041Z
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SUMMARY:THE WAY OF EXCELLENCE: A GUIDE TO TRUE GREATNESS AND DEEP SATISFACTION IN A CHAOTIC WORLD
DESCRIPTION:In The Way of Excellence: A Guide to True Greatness and Deep Satisfaction in a Chaotic World\, bestselling author and performance coach Brad Stulberg offers a practical guide to realizing our potential amid the chaos of modern life by reconnecting to ourselves through the pursuit of excellence. Combining modern science\, timeless wisdom\, and actionable strategies\, Stulberg redefines excellence—not as a finish line to cross\, but as an ongoing process of growth and becoming that allows us to reach our fullest potential while staying deeply connected to our values and what truly matters. \nInspired by research from diverse fields and grounded in real-world application\, Stulberg frames excellence as the integration of mastery and mattering\, providing a clear\, sustainable path for pursuing meaningful goals with focus and intention. Unlike “hacks” and the hustle culture of “pseudo-excellence\,” this book champions meaningful challenges that align with our values and goals and foster deep satisfaction\, fulfillment\, and contribution. \nStulberg explores critical principles such as defining and living in alignment with your values\, cultivating focus\, prioritizing consistency over intensity\, building genuine confidence\, and creating environments that foster our best performances. He shows how striving for genuine excellence can reconnect us to ourselves\, our work\, and each other\, creating lives rich in meaning and purpose. \nStulberg is the bestselling author of The Practice of Groundedness and Master of Change\, and coauthor of Peak Performance. He regularly contributes to The New York Times\, and his work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and The Atlantic\, among other outlets. He is co-host of the podcast excellence\, actually and is on faculty at the University of Michigan. \nStulberg will be in conversation with Angela Duckworth\, Ph.D. (FAN ’12\, ’16)\, the Rosa Lee and Egbert Chang Professor at the University of Pennsylvania\, faculty co-director of the Penn-Wharton Behavior Change for Good Initiative\, and founding faculty co-director of Wharton People Analytics. She is also co-host of the podcast No Stupid Questions. \nBonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of The Way of Excellence to randomly selected Zoom attendees. Details on the webinar registration page. \nThis event is suitable for youth ages 12 and up. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-way-of-excellence-a-guide-to-true-greatness-and-deep-satisfaction-in-a-chaotic-world/
LOCATION:On Zoom
CATEGORIES:Events,Family Action Network
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20230824T133154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T191159Z
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SUMMARY:Fascial Stretch Therapy
DESCRIPTION:Private Fascial Stretch Therapy Sessions with Josh Watson of Lake Shore Fit@Home!\nAre you struggling with chronic pain\, limited mobility\, or reduced flexibility? Looking for a way to move more freely and feel stronger in your body? Private Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST) sessions with Josh Watson may be the solution you’ve been looking for. \nFascial Stretch Therapy is a cutting-edge\, neuromyofascial manual therapy that targets the body’s connective tissue system—commonly known as fascia—rather than just focusing on individual muscles. This comprehensive approach helps improve overall flexibility\, joint mobility\, strength\, and posture. FST is especially effective for relieving chronic pain\, enhancing athletic performance\, and preventing injury. \nIn each session\, Josh assesses your active\, passive\, and resisted range of motion in dynamic\, functional positions. From there\, he customizes a hands-on therapy plan that aligns with your unique body mechanics and wellness goals. Whether you’re an athlete\, dealing with everyday aches\, or recovering from an injury\, Josh adapts each session to meet your needs and comfort level. \nJosh brings over a decade of experience as a personal trainer and stretch therapist in the Lake Forest community. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Illinois State University and spent eight years at Northwestern Medicine before launching his successful in-home business\, LakeShore Fit@Home. He has worked with a broad range of clients—from CEOs and busy professionals to golfers and Division I athletes—helping each achieve greater mobility\, flexibility\, and pain relief. \nJosh is passionate about educating clients on the benefits of stretching and how it supports long-term health and functional movement. His diverse certifications and holistic approach ensure a safe\, effective\, and personalized experience for every client. \nPlease contact Josh directly to schedule a private stretching session at Gorton! – Josh Watson  or 847-702-2226
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/fascial-stretch-therapy-5/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Classes,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20260121T180044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T180044Z
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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-18/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T203000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20250708T164841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T165820Z
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SUMMARY:Take Your Painting to the Next Level
DESCRIPTION:Ready to take your painting to the next level?\nThis class is ideal for artists who already have some experience painting in Oil\, Acrylic\, Gouache\, or Pastel and are ready to grow their skills further. If you’ve been wanting to turn a photo into a painting or have started a piece but feel unsure about how to move forward\, this is the perfect opportunity to get expert guidance and renewed inspiration. \nEach student brings in either a reference photo or an unfinished painting to work on during class. From there\, artist and instructor Michael Latala provides hands-on\, individualized instruction to help you make confident artistic decisions. First\, he’ll show you how to evaluate your photo reference—guiding you in choosing what elements to include and what to leave out. Then\, through clear demonstrations\, he’ll help you resolve common issues like washed-out highlights or areas that have gone too dark to read. \nThroughout the class\, Michael gives each student personal attention. If you’d prefer to keep your canvas untouched\, he’s happy to demonstrate his suggestions digitally using Procreate on his iPad Pro. This digital approach allows you to visualize changes before applying them\, which can be especially helpful when exploring different color choices or compositional edits. \nImportantly\, this class is all about progress at your own pace. There’s no pressure to finish quickly. Instead\, you’re encouraged to slow down\, focus on what you’re learning\, and enjoy the process. With consistent support and practice\, you’ll discover how to turn your ideas into beautiful\, well-executed paintings—just the way you imagined them. \nThis series is a total of 8 sessions\, all will be 7 – 9:30pm \n\nFebruary 18\nMarch 18
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/painting-next-level-february/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T190000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20251121T175714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T165741Z
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SUMMARY:Thriving Through Perimenopause
DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Transformative Nutrition and Wellness Seminar on Perimenopause!\nAre you navigating the changes of perimenopause or supporting someone who is? This empowering seminar is designed to educate\, uplift\, and equip you with the tools you need to feel strong\, balanced\, and confident through this important life stage. \nLed by experienced wellness professionals\, this interactive class will dive into evidence-based strategies to help you take control of your health and well-being. Whether you’re just beginning to notice changes or are well into your perimenopausal journey\, this seminar will provide practical guidance and a supportive community. \nTopics we’ll explore include:\n\n\nNutrition for Hormonal Balance: Discover the best foods to support fluctuating hormones\, stabilize mood\, maintain a healthy metabolism\, and promote strong bones. Learn how to build meals that nourish your body and reduce common perimenopausal symptoms. \n\n\nMovement for Strength and Vitality: Learn which types of exercise are most effective during perimenopause for preserving muscle mass\, boosting energy\, and protecting heart health. We’ll discuss how to adapt your fitness routine to meet your body’s evolving needs. \n\n\nSmart Supplementation: With so many products on the market\, it can be hard to know what really works. We’ll separate fact from fiction and provide clear guidance on which supplements are truly helpful – and which may be more hype than help. \n\n\nYou’ll leave with:\n\n\nA deeper understanding of what’s happening in your body during perimenopause \n\n\nPractical tips you can start using right away \n\n\nResources to continue your journey with confidence \n\n\nThis is more than just a seminar – it’s an opportunity to take charge of your health and connect with others going through similar experiences. We hope to see you there!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/thriving-through-perimenopause-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Specialty,Wellness
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T200000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20260209T173813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T173813Z
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SUMMARY:Shared Wisdom: Cultural Evolution in the Age of AI
DESCRIPTION:In Shared Wisdom: Cultural Evolution in the Age of AI\, Alex “Sandy” Pentland\, Ph.D.\, delves into the history of innovation\, emphasizing how technologies and cultural inventions have shaped human society. Humanity’s great leaps forward—the rise of civilizations\, the Enlightenment\, and the Scientific Revolution—were all propelled by cultural inventions that accelerated our rate of innovation and built collective wisdom. Solving today’s global challenges\, from climate change and pandemics to failing social institutions\, will require similarly fundamental inventions. \nShared Wisdom provides a unique perspective on human society and offers insights into how we can use technologies like digital media and AI to augment\, rather than replace\, our human capacity for deliberation. Drawing on his expertise in both social science and technology\, Pentland bridges the gap between these disciplines and offers a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities we face in the age of AI. By examining our deep history\, he argues that the better we understand the key factors that accelerate cultural evolution\, the greater our chances of surmounting our current problems. \nPentland is a Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI and Toshiba Professor of Media Arts & Science at MIT’s Sloan School of Management. He is a serial entrepreneur\, was named one of the “100 People to Watch This Century” by Newsweek and “one of the seven most powerful data scientists in the world” by Forbes. He is a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering\, an advisor to Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Lab\, and an advisor to Google\, AT&T\, and the UN Secretary General. Pentland will be in conversation with Lisa Kay Solomon (FAN ’24)\, a lecturer and the Futurist in Residence at the Stanford University d.school. She is the host of the How We Future podcast and Substack and the co-author of the bestselling books Moments of Impact and Design a Better Business. \nBonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of Shared Wisdom to randomly selected Zoom attendees. Details on the webinar registration page. \nThis event is suitable for youth ages 12 and up. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/shared-wisdom-cultural-evolution-in-the-age-of-ai/
LOCATION:On Zoom
CATEGORIES:Events,Family Action Network
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T220000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20251203T185947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T212840Z
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SUMMARY:Ladies Night Dance Party
DESCRIPTION:Ladies Night Out – The Ultimate Dance Party (Without the Late Night!)\nDon’t miss out – join us for the ultimate ladies night! Calling all women who love to have fun and dance but don’t want to party until dawn – this is your night! Ladies Night Out is the ultimate women-only dance party where you can let loose\, own the dance floor\, and relive your best moves. And we let you do it all without sacrificing your beauty sleep. \nStep into our Groovy Grotto\, where the DJ will be spinning all your favorite hits\, the dance floor is waiting\, and the energy is nothing short of electric. Whether you’re a queen of the club scene\, a wedding reception dance-floor legend\, or just someone who can’t resist a good beat\, this is your night! It’s your chance to party – let loose\, move your feet\, and have the time of your life – all before bedtime! \nNo pressure\, no judgment – just pure fun\, great music\, and an amazing crowd of women ready to dance the night away. Our dancers will be keeping the vibes going\, so whether you’re busting out your best moves or just grooving in the background\, you’ll feel right at home. \nGrab your girlfriends\, throw on your favorite outfit\, and get ready for an unforgettable night of music\, movement\, and memories. No heels required\, no guys allowed – just an epic night out with the ladies! \nAges 21+ | Good times guaranteed! \nWhen: Friday\, February 20th | 7-10 pm\nWhere: Gorton Center | Grotto\nWhat: DJ | Dancing | Cocktails | Fun \nWomen Only – Home By 10 pm \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/ladies-night-dance-party/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – Grotto\, Lake Forest\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community,Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260221T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260221T090000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20260121T184632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T185915Z
UID:20006975-1771660800-1771664400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Salsarobics
DESCRIPTION:*DATE & TIME CHANGE* CLASS WILL BE ON SATURDAY\, FEBRUARY 21\, 8 – 9 AM\nGet 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-20/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Music,Wellness
GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260221T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T104028
CREATED:20260128T205020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T191907Z
UID:20007008-1771671600-1771675200@gortoncenter.org
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-21/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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GEO:42.2506703;-87.8374004
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