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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260310T180000
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DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
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SUMMARY:Art Impact Project: Matisse Color Cut-Outs
DESCRIPTION:Matisse Color Cut-Outs Collage \nA new Henri Matisse exhibit opens March 7 at the Art Institute of Chicago. To celebrate\, we’re bringing the bold spirit of his Cut-Outs into the classroom. First\, we’ll explore color. Then\, we’ll play with shape. Next\, we’ll experiment with space and composition. Finally\, you’ll create your own Matisse-inspired paper collage. \nNo experience is required. Instead\, bring your curiosity. Whether you’re brand new to art or a seasoned creator\, you’ll find joy in the process. Most importantly\, our wellness art program helps you relax\, connect\, and have fun while you create. \nAll supplies provided.  Ages 11+ \n \nThis class is free\, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.  \nCelebrating their tenth anniversary\, Art Impact Project is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.  They partner with organizations such as schools\, treatment facilities\, libraries\, and other community spaces throughout Lake County\, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.  Providing a supportive\, small group setting\, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-matisse-color-cut-outs/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Wellness,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260310T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260310T203000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260225T144717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T144717Z
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SUMMARY:THE FIRST EIGHT: A PERSONAL HISTORY OF THE PIONEERING BLACK CONGRESSMEN WHO SHAPED A NATION
DESCRIPTION:Today\, South Carolina Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) is renowned as a Democratic kingmaker and one of the most distinguished Black political leaders in American history. But behind him stand eight other remarkable men: the first Black politicians elected to Congress from his home state\, who blazed the path for his own ascent. Since arriving in Congress in the early nineties\, Congressman Clyburn has been guided by their wisdom and example — and sobered by their struggles\, particularly against the enduring demon of American racism. \nSouth Carolina’s first eight Black congressmen all rose to office in the wake of the Civil War and emancipation — only to see their gains extinguished as the dark veil of Jim Crow fell across the South. It would take nearly a century before the ninth Black representative from the state\, Clyburn himself\, was elected. \nIn The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation\, Rep. Clyburn brings these men’s stories — and their message of liberty — to the nation they served. Among them: Joseph Rainey\, born enslaved in 1832\, who became the first Black politician elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in American history; Robert Smalls\, celebrated for his extraordinary Civil War heroism\, when he commandeered a Confederate vessel and delivered it — and his freedom — to the Union; and Richard Cain\, editor of a widely read newspaper for Black South Carolinians and a figure deeply associated with Emanuel AME Church\, one of the oldest and most distinguished Black churches in America\, and where nine Black congregants were murdered in a racist mass shooting in 2015. \nThrough the trials\, tribulations\, triumphs\, and setbacks all nine men faced\, Rep. Clyburn illuminates a whole new way of understanding the arc from the Civil War to the present day. \nThe First Eight is a singular blend of history and memoir — at once a monument to eight trailblazing Americans\, a meditation on progress\, and a clear-eyed reckoning with how far we have yet to go in our nation’s ongoing struggle for true democracy. \nRep. Clyburn will be in conversation with Natalie Y. Moore\, an award-winning journalist and author and senior lecturer and director of audio programming at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. \nBonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of The First Eight to attendees\, while supplies last. \nThis event is suitable for youth ages 12 and up. It will be recorded but not live streamed and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-first-eight-a-personal-history-of-the-pioneering-black-congressmen-who-shaped-a-nation/
LOCATION:Evanston Township High School Auditorium\, 1600 Dodge Ave\, Evanston\, IL\, 60201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Family Action Network
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260311T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260311T120000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260223T181215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T181215Z
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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-march-11/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Games
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260311T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260311T211500
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20251218T193749Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T155605Z
UID:20006870-1773256500-1773263700@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-27/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T143000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260209T183536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T170957Z
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SUMMARY:FREE Community Youth Mental Health First Aid
DESCRIPTION:The Josselyn Center is offering a free training session for anyone in our community who works with teens. Whether you’re an educator\, coach\, volunteer\, parent or youth leader\, this session is for you. \nFirst\, we’ll help you understand what today’s teens are facing. Then\, you’ll learn how to recognize the early signs of mental health challenges and substance use. You’ll gain practical tools. Clear language. Real-world examples. \nNext\, we’ll walk through how to start supportive conversations. What do you say? How do you listen? Where do you turn for help? We’ll answer those questions and more. \nMost importantly\, you’ll leave feeling confident. Prepared. Empowered to act. \nTogether\, we can create a stronger safety net for the teens in our community. Join us and be part of the solution. \nScan the QR code or click ‘register’ to sign up.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/free-community-youth-mental-health-first-aid/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Community,Events,Rental Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T091500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T101500
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260223T190717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T190717Z
UID:20007055-1773393300-1773396900@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Salsarobics
DESCRIPTION:Get Ready to Move with SALSArobics!\nJoin Esther Gutierrez Sloan every Friday for a dynamic workout that blends fun\, rhythm\, and full-body movement. This class isn’t just about exercise – it’s about joy\, discovery\, and the thrill of dance! \nThroughout the session\, participants choose their intensity level – low\, moderate\, or high – while moving to irresistible Latin\, Caribbean\, Spanish\, and African beats. Options for both low-impact and high-impact movements allow everyone to customize their experience. \nEach class delivers an energizing workout that averages 4\,000 to 4\,200 steps\, with varying degrees of intensity. Esther integrates the Total Body Training (TBT) Systems Methodology to support proper posture and promote muscle conditioning. She also incorporates Peripheral Heart Action (PHA) Training\, offering an optional challenge that builds aerobic strength based on individual pace and rhythm. \nTo build coordination and balance\, the class includes inline motion drills. Participants move across the room using steps that change direction – laterally\, diagonally\, forward\, and backward—adding functional movement to the workout. \nThe session concludes with Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching to enhance flexibility and recovery. \nColombian-born Esther Gutierrez Sloan created SALSArobics in 1989 to fuse authentic Latin rhythms with aerobic exercise. She has performed on national and local television in Illinois\, California\, Florida\, and New York. In addition to leading classes\, she has presented SALSArobics at fitness conventions\, schools\, health clubs\, ethnic festivals\, and international events. \nIn recognition of her groundbreaking work\, Esther was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2010. Learn more about Esther and SALSArobics.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/salsarobics-march-13/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Wellness,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T130000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260225T143946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T201807Z
UID:20007067-1773403200-1773406800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:DOPAMINE KIDS: A SCIENCE-BASED PLAN TO REWIRE YOUR CHILD'S BRAIN AND TAKE BACK YOUR FAMILY IN THE AGE OF SCREENS AND ULTRAPROCESSED FOODS
DESCRIPTION:Nearly everything you’ve heard about dopamine is wrong. It’s not the molecule of happiness — it doesn’t give us pleasure; it gives us motivation. Today\, unprecedented “dopamine surges” pull us toward technology and ultraprocessed foods like magnets\, many times a day\, and neuroscientists have now begun to understand how these surges alter our choices\, habits\, and moods — driving adults and kids toward activities that bring no real enjoyment and leave us feeling sad\, lonely\, anxious\, and depressed. \nWhen Michaeleen Doucleff\, Ph.D. (FAN ’21)\, set out to address her own family’s screen time and dependence on processed foods\, she discovered that study after study refuted nearly everything the media claims about dopamine. She took that new neuroscience and merged it with practical experience to shift the power dynamic back to families — so that instead of devices and foods controlling us\, we control them. The result is Dopamine Kids: A Science-Based Plan to Rewire Your Child’s Brain and Take Back Your Family in the Age of Screens and Ultraprocessed Foods\, a five-step operating manual for habit remodeling that helps parents create boundaries\, replace screen time with equally enticing alternatives\, remove triggers\, and celebrate new choices — ultimately weakening the neurological pull of devices and making dopamine work in a family’s favor. \nDoucleff’s research culminates in a four-week plan to build screen-free sanctuaries that protect conversation\, focus\, sleep\, and adventure. Where Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation sounded the alarm about screens\, Dopamine Kids is the handbook for solving the problem — teaching kids a healthy relationship with technology and food while meeting their genuine biological and emotional needs. Doucleff has a chemistry doctorate from UC Berkeley\, a postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH\, more than a decade covering children’s health for NPR’s science desk\, a Peabody Award\, and the New York Times bestseller Hunt\, Gather\, Parent. \nDoucleff will be in conversation with Heidi Stevens\, Director of External Affairs for the University of Chicago’s TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health. She writes a weekly nationally syndicated column\, “Balancing Act.” Stevens has been a FAN board member since 2021. \nBonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of Dopamine Kids 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/dopamine-kids-a-science-based-plan-to-rewire-your-childs-brain-and-take-back-your-family-in-the-age-of-screens-and-ultraprocessed-foods/
LOCATION:On Zoom
CATEGORIES:Events,Family Action Network
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T200000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260107T171317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T195949Z
UID:20006909-1773424800-1773432000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cookie Decorating: Ladies Night
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. JOIN US FOR THE NEXT SESSION ON APRIL 10!\nGather your favorite gals and get ready for a cozy\, creative night filled with cookies\, conversation\, and plenty of frosting fun! This hands-on cookie decorating class is the perfect way to unwind\, connect\, and try something new together. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night out\, celebrating a special occasion\, or just looking for a fun excuse to get together\, this experience is all about creativity and connection. \nYou’ll learn the basics of cookie decorating\, including piping techniques\, icing consistency\, and simple design tips\, all while working on a beautifully themed set of sugar cookies. Step-by-step guidance makes it easy and approachable\, even if you’ve never decorated cookies before. Along the way\, you’ll pick up tricks you can use at home and plenty of inspiration to make your cookies look as good as they taste. \nSip your favorite drinks and snack as you decorate\, and enjoy a relaxed\, laughter-filled atmosphere. By the end of the night\, you’ll head home with a box of stunning\, hand-decorated cookies—and even sweeter memories made with friends. No experience necessary—just show up ready to have fun and get a little frosted! \n*THIS CLASS IS BYOB!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cookie-decorating-ladies-night-march/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes,Cooking
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T203000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20250905T184213Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T215158Z
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SUMMARY:Rendezvous Arts: Members of the St. Charles Singers
DESCRIPTION:Rendezvous Arts Presents: The St. Charles Singers\nMarch brings something new to Rendezvous – and it’s a milestone moment for us. For the first time\, we welcome a vocal ensemble: eight extraordinary voices from the internationally acclaimed St. Charles Singers\, led by conductor Jeff Hunt. \nYou’ve likely heard these artists before\, whether with the Chicago Symphony Chorus\, Grant Park Music Festival Chorus or Music of the Baroque Chorus. Now\, however\, they step into a more intimate setting where every harmony resonates and every detail shines. As a result\, the experience feels both powerful and personal. \nAlthough the choir tours internationally and earns acclaim around the world\, they remain proudly rooted in the western suburbs. This March\, they bring that global artistry to Dixon\, Lake Forest and Chicago\, offering a program that balances sweep and subtlety in equal measure. \nSomething for Everyone\nThis vibrant program spans centuries with clarity and energy. First\, the group will open with lively Renaissance madrigals like Fair Phyllis I Saw Sitting and Il est bel et bon. Next\, they will feature John Rutter’s In My Garden and Spin Me a Web\, Spider\, written for Saint Charles Singers and included on the upcoming recording Dancing Tree: Choral Landscapes. \nThey bring poetry to life in Ah\, Sunflower and celebrate folk traditions with selections by Gustav Holst and others from Bushes and Briars. Then\, they highlight works written for Saint Charles Singers and feature a quartet on The Longest Time. Finally\, the Saint Charles Singers close with bold\, uplifting favorites by Aaron Copland and Shawn Kirchner. \nAnd then there’s the twist: painter Tina Druce-Hoffman creates live art during the performance\, responding to what she hears in real time—so you’re not just attending a concert\, you’re watching music turn into color\, story\, and shape right in front of you. \nEight world-class artists come together on one stage\, shaping a single canvas of sound. Join us for one night only. \nTina Druce-Hoffman – Millinery Artist \nTina Druce-Hoffman’s career spans illustration\, graphic design\, and teaching\, with work featured in collectible card games\, books\, and countless exhibitions. She explores gouache\, watercolor\, etching\, and more\, always guided by insatiable curiosity. Whether outdoors capturing landscapes or at her easel crafting whimsical scenes\, her art invites us to pause\, reflect\, and enter an “elsewhere” just beyond the everyday. \n \nMusic that soars. Art that responds in the moment. This is a Rendezvous Arts debut you’ll want to witness.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/the-st-charles-singers/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – Stuart Community Room
CATEGORIES:Events,Live Music,Performing Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/JR.-Sewing-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T203000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260304T143225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T143225Z
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SUMMARY:EVERYBODY'S FLY: ART\, MUSIC\, AND CHANGING THE CULTURE
DESCRIPTION:Blondie’s declaration on their 1980 hit “Rapture” introduced listeners around the world to Fred Brathwaite\, also known as Fab 5 Freddy\, a pioneering cultural icon whose fearless creativity reshaped the worlds of art\, style\, and music. Next spring\, Viking is proud to publish his electrifying memoir Everybody’s Fly: A Life of Art\, Music\, and Changing the Culture. \nEverybody’s Fly is an essential\, street-level cultural history from one of our most curious\, passionate\, and inspiring minds still working today. Picking up where Patti Smith’s Just Kids leaves off\, it offers an intimate look into how New York’s underground art and music scene—guided by Fab’s singular vision of what could be possible— irrevocably transformed mainstream culture from the late 1970s to today. \nBecause Fab doesn’t just have a great story—he is the story. Name a seismic cultural shift of the last five decades\, and chances are\, he wasn’t just there—he was making it happen. He’s the graffiti artist who turned subway tags into fine art\, showing his work most recently at the Saatchi Gallery in London; the visionary behind the first hip-hop movie; the bridge between Jean-Michel Basquiat and the downtown punk scene; the first person to take rap global on MTV as the original host of Yo! MTV Raps; the director behind iconic music videos for Snoop Dog\, Nas\, Queen Latifah\, and KRS-One; and\, of course\, the inspiration for the opening rhyme of Blondie’s number one smash hit “Rapture”—the song that propelled hip-hop from the Bronx to popular culture for the first time. With a spirit of joyful creativity\, he shattered racial and artistic boundaries\, bridging worlds and bringing underground movements to the mainstream. \nVibrant\, rhapsodic\, and compulsively readable\, Everybody’s Fly is a love letter to the art of seeing\, a fascinating account of an inimitable creative life\, and a celebration of what it means to shape culture. \nFab will be in conversation with Theaster Gates\, world-renowned artist\, archivist\, social innovator\, and professor and Special Advisor to the President at the University of Chicago. Gates creates work that focuses on space theory and land development\, sculpture\, and performance. \nBonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of Everybody’s Fly to attendees\, while supplies last. \nThis event is suitable for youth ages 12 and up. It will be recorded but not live streamed and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/everybodys-fly-art-music-and-changing-the-culture/
LOCATION:Evanston Township High School Auditorium\, 1600 Dodge Ave\, Evanston\, IL\, 60201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events,Family Action Network
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T100000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260106T195018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T141809Z
UID:20006900-1773478800-1773482400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cookie Decorating Little Sprouts (3 - 5 Years)
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION IS CLOSED. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT SESSION IN APRIL!\nCookie Decorating with The Cookie Garden\nJoin us for a fun\, hands-on cookie decorating class made just for little bakers! Little Sprouts is designed for children ages 3–5. In this class\, kids explore the sweet world of creativity through color\, texture\, and taste. \nWe start with pre-baked cookies\, so the focus is all on decorating. Children use frosting\, sprinkles\, and edible decorations. They squeeze\, spread\, and shake. Each cookie becomes a small work of art. \nThis class is sensory-friendly. We create a calm and welcoming space. Young learners feel supported as they experiment. They can explore at their own pace. No pressure\, just play. \nDecorating cookies helps more than creativity. Kids practice fine motor skills. They build hand strength and coordination\, learn to follow simple steps and gain confidence with each design. \nAt the same time\, they have fun! Expect sticky fingers\, messy tables\, and lots of smiles. Every swirl of frosting or sprinkle of color adds to the excitement. Children get to see their ideas come to life right in front of them. \nParents and caregivers are welcome to join in. Together\, you’ll share laughter and create sweet memories. Decorating side by side encourages bonding and teamwork. It’s a simple activity that sparks big joy. \nNo baking experience is needed. Just bring curiosity and a love of fun. We’ll guide the rest. Kids leave with decorated cookies to enjoy or share. More importantly\, they leave with pride in what they created. \nLittle Sprouts is more than a class. It’s an invitation to imagine\, explore\, and connect. From the first squeeze of frosting to the last bite\, it’s a celebration of creativity. \nCome decorate\, discover\, and delight with us. We can’t wait to see what your little baker creates!  \nLittle Sprouts Cookie Decorating Class  is for Ages 3 – 5  \nFebruary’s Theme: Valentine’s Day \nElizabeth Lindberg— The Cookie Garden\nBeth Lindberg is the owner and creative heart behind The Cookie Garden\, a whimsical\, sugar-inspired business that brings joy and artistry to the community through in-home cookie decorating parties and custom cookie bouquets. With a passion for creativity and connection\, Beth transforms cookies into edible works of art\, guiding people of all ages to decorate\, laugh\, and make memories together.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cookie-decorating-little-sprouts-march/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Cooking,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T120000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260223T201600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T141743Z
UID:20007059-1773484200-1773489600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cookie Decorating 5 - 10 Year Olds
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION IS CLOSED. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT SESSION IN APRIL!\nLearn the art of Cookie Decorating!\nCurious about cookie decorating? This class is the sweetest place to start! No experience? No problem. We’ll guide you step by step\, and all supplies are included. Just bring your creativity\, a playful spirit\, and maybe a sweet tooth. \nIn this beginner-friendly class\, you’ll dive into the colorful world of royal icing. First\, we’ll explore the basics of piping. Next\, you’ll practice outlining and flooding with ease. Then comes the fun part – decorating! You’ll design six beautiful\, themed cookies to take home\, show off\, or devour. \nBut don’t worry – it’s not all serious. We keep the pace relaxed and the atmosphere light. Each cookie is a new chance to experiment. You’ll discover how to hold your piping bag like a pro\, make clean outlines\, and fill cookies with smooth\, glossy icing. With every cookie\, your confidence will grow. \nThe best part? This class is all about fun. Come solo for a relaxing creative break. Invite friends and make it a sweet little outing. Celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself to something new. Everyone leaves with cookies\, smiles\, and a sprinkle of pride. \nEdible Creations\nCookie decorating isn’t just about sugar and icing – it’s about joy. It’s about turning simple cookies into edible works of art. It’s about playing with color\, design\, and style while sharing laughter along the way. \nAnd once you’ve learned the basics\, you’ll be hooked. You’ll start spotting cookie inspiration everywhere – holidays\, birthdays\, or even a rainy afternoon at home. With your new skills\, you’ll be ready to decorate cookies that taste as amazing as they look. \nSo\, why wait? Grab a spot\, join the fun\, and discover the magic of cookie decorating. Sweet memories (and sweet treats) are waiting for you! Ages 5 – 8 \nMarch’s Theme: St. Patrick’s Day \nElizabeth Lindberg— The Cookie Garden Beth Lindberg is the owner and creative heart behind The Cookie Garden\, a whimsical\, sugar-inspired business that brings joy and artistry to the community through in-home cookie decorating parties and custom cookie bouquets. With a passion for creativity and connection\, Beth transforms cookies into edible works of art\, guiding people of all ages to decorate\, laugh\, and make memories together.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cookie-decorating-st-patricks/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Cooking,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T120000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260306T161300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T161619Z
UID:20007082-1773486000-1773489600@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-march-14/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T140000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260106T193548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T142430Z
UID:20006897-1773491400-1773496800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Cookie Decorating 10 Years Old & Up
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION IS CLOSED. PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NEXT SESSION IN APRIL!\nLearn the Art of Cookie Decorating!\nCurious about cookie decorating? This class is the sweetest place to start! No experience? No problem. We’ll guide you step by step\, and all supplies are included. Just bring your creativity\, a playful spirit\, and maybe a sweet tooth. \nIn this beginner-friendly class\, you’ll dive into the colorful world of royal icing. First\, we’ll explore the basics of piping. Next\, you’ll practice outlining and flooding with ease. Then comes the fun part – decorating! You’ll design six beautiful\, themed cookies to take home\, show off\, or devour. \nBut don’t worry – it’s not all serious. We keep the pace relaxed and the atmosphere light. Each cookie is a new chance to experiment. You’ll discover how to hold your piping bag like a pro\, make clean outlines\, and fill cookies with smooth\, glossy icing. With every cookie\, your confidence will grow. \nThe best part? This class is all about fun. Come solo for a relaxing creative break. Invite friends and make it a sweet little outing. Celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself to something new. Everyone leaves with cookies\, smiles\, and a sprinkle of pride. \nMarch’s Theme: Lucky Gnomes \nElizabeth Lindberg— The Cookie Garden \nBeth Lindberg is the owner and creative heart behind The Cookie Garden\, a whimsical\, sugar-inspired business that brings joy and artistry to the community through in-home cookie decorating parties and custom cookie bouquets. With a passion for creativity and connection\, Beth transforms cookies into edible works of art\, guiding people of all ages to decorate\, laugh\, and make memories together.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cookie-decorating-10-years-march/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Cooking,Youth
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T213000
DTSTAMP:20260713T195136
CREATED:20260112T033259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T162852Z
UID:20006930-1773493200-1773523800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:2026 OSCAR SHORTS
DESCRIPTION:Showcasing the best short films from around the world\, the 2026 Oscar®-Nominated Shorts presents feature-length programs dedicated to each Academy Award® Short Film category: Animated\, Documentary and Live Action. \nAnimated Short Film Nominees:\nButterfly – Florence Miailhe and Ron Dyens\nForevergreen – Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears\nThe Girl Who Cried Pearls – Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski\nRetirement Plan – John Kelly and Andrew Freedman\nThe Three Sisters – Konstantin Bronzit \nDocumentary Short Film Nominees:\nAll the Empty Rooms – Joshua Seftel and Conall Jones\nArmed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud – Craig Renaud and Juan Arredondo\nChildren No More: “Were and Are Gone” – Hilla Medalia and Sheila Nevins\nThe Devil Is Busy – Christalyn Hampton and Geeta Gandbhir\nPerfectly a Strangeness – Alison McAlpine \nLive Action Short Film Nominees:\nButcher’s Stain – Meyer Levinson-Blount and Oron Caspi\nA Friend of Dorothy – Lee Knight and James Dean\nJane Austen’s Period Drama – Julia Aks and Steve Pinder\nThe Singers – Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt\nTwo People Exchanging Saliva – Alexandre Singh and Natalie Musteata
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/2026-oscar-shorts/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – John & Nancy Hughes Theater\, 400 E. Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Film
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END:VCALENDAR