Community Events and Highlights
Native American Artist Exhibition
A Chicago-based artist, Negwes White, will showcase his acrylic paintings in the exhibit titled Here & Now: An Urban Native Voice. As part of this event, White will host a program from 10:30 a.m. to noon on July 11 in Large Meeting Room 104 at the Orland Park Public Library, located at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. White, who belongs to the Walpole Island Ojibwe, Guachuchil from Mexico, and Diné from Fort Defiance, Arizona, will share Native American stories, demonstrate a traditional Plains Indian grass dance, discuss his creative process, and engage with audience questions. This exhibit aims to teach about culture, language, and art through inspiring interaction. Visitors can view the exhibit throughout July on the library’s second floor. For more information, visit www.orlandparklibrary.org or call 708-428-5100.
Oak Lawn Student Art Competition
Oak Lawn Community High School students participated in the Illinois PTA Reflections program, now celebrating its 55th year as a national arts initiative. This program offers students an opportunity to showcase their talents across various mediums, including film production, literature, music composition, visual arts, photography, and dance choreography. Out of 37 entries, 15 advanced to the state level: Addison Clark, Peyton Marshall, Erin Sprull-Pennington, Josiah Bedolla, Zayra Bustamante, Skye Meyer, Hannah Trigg, Tahj Balock, Molly Castellano, Isabel Juarez, Emily Prado, David Sosa, Ava Urbaniec, Lilian Ibarra, and Alanah Martinez. Those receiving honorable mentions were Weronica Makary, Mikayla Vazquez, Nathaniel Vega, and Jake Herpich. Addison Clark, Emily Prado, and Peyton Marshall also progressed to the regional level, making them eligible for national judging.
Scholarships Awarded by Rotary Club
The Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Club granted $1,000 scholarships to three local students: Elizabeth Ardagh from Lincoln-Way East High School, Caden Wolfe from Andrew High School, and Gavin Hemminger from Tinley Park High School. Ardagh plans to study biological sciences and neuroscience on a pre-med track at the University of Notre Dame. Wolfe will pursue special education studies at DePaul University, while Hemminger intends to study biology on a pre-med track at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Scholarships are given to students who align with the Rotary motto “Service Above Self.” Established in 1975, the club supports both local and global initiatives. More details are available at facebook.com/tpfrotary.
Underground Railroad History Picnic
The Crete Historical Society and the Midwest Underground Railroad Network will host a community picnic and educational program on July 11 from noon to 2 p.m. at Schubert Woods Pavilion in the Cook County Forest Preserve. This free event offers families an opportunity to learn about the region’s history concerning the Underground Railroad. Attendees should bring their own food and seating; however, drinks and treats will be provided. Professor Larry McClellan will lead a guided hike to the McCoy Homestead site at 11 a.m., with hikers advised to arrive by 10:30 a.m. McClellan will also deliver a lunchtime presentation. A Crete Historical Society member will discuss local Underground Railroad activities. Musical performances by Lana Lewis and Al “The Voice” Mack are scheduled. Learn more by calling 773-370-3305.
Tinley Park Country Fest Celebrations
The Tinley Park Country Fest will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States from July 3 to 5 at the Metra station, located at 18001 S. 80th Ave. Events will run from 4 to 11 p.m. on July 3, noon to 11 p.m. on July 4, and 1 to 8 p.m. on July 5. Performers include Nashville musicians and local bands such as Ashley Walls, Eric Chesser, Whiskey Friends, Would Coulda Shoulda, The Walk-Ins, Music In Motion Kids, Knievel’s Daredevil Band, and Billy Gray Music. Additional entertainment features line dancing lessons, rib vendors, local breweries, craft shops, carnival rides, and a magic show. The event will conclude with a fireworks display. Visit www.TinleyParkCountryFest.com for the full schedule and ticket sales.
Blood Drive at Worth Library
The Worth Public Library District is hosting a blood drive from 2 to 6 p.m. on July 8. The drive will take place at 6917 W. 111th St. in partnership with Versiti Blood Centers. Appointments remain available, though walk-ins are welcome. Interested donors can sign up at tinyurl.com/WorthLibraryLifeSavers.
Illinois Citizens Reentry Day
The Joliet Unity Movement, advocate and mentor Elizabeth Protich, and Holsten Human Capital Development will host the Illinois Citizens Reentry Day on July 3 from noon to 6 p.m. This free event at the Riverwalk Community Center, 350 N. Broadway in Joliet, celebrates new beginnings. It offers music, family activities, a spades tournament, voter registration, open mic poetry, employment opportunities, community resources, and fellowship. The event acknowledges the resilience and contributions of individuals impacted by the justice system, connecting attendees with resources for successful reentry. More information is available at www.Joliet815.com.
Community news can be sent to [email protected].