Community Highlights in Palos Park and Surrounding Areas
Unique Transportation for a Dedicated Student
A student from The Center’s Farm & Nature School in Palos Park enjoyed a memorable ride to school, courtesy of the local police department. The opportunity arose from an auction designed to support educational funding. The ride was facilitated by the Palos Park Police Department and police commissioner Dan Polk. Community Services Officer Grace Mischak and Officer Rebecca Duffy provided the student with VIP treatment in a police vehicle.
20th Annual Blessing of the Waters in Blue Island
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Blessing of the Waters event in Blue Island. Scheduled for 3 p.m. on June 28 at the Cal-Sag Channel, the celebration will occur near the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District waterfall at Fulton and Chatham streets. The free event features music, refreshments, and an opportunity to reflect on water’s essential role in life and ecosystems.
Ceremony to Honor Historical Figures in Park Forest
In Park Forest, plaques will be installed to commemorate former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar and village founder Philip Klutznick. The ceremony is set for 9 a.m. on June 27 at the Birch Street Townhomes. It will first honor the Klutznick residence, located at 2651-53 Western Avenue, and then the Edgar residence at 2731 Western Avenue. The Klutznick family were early settlers, and the Edgar family resided there briefly.
Evergreen Park High Alum Inducted into Hall of Fame
David McGrath, author and professor, has been inducted into the Evergreen Park Community High School’s Hall of Fame. He is known for his four books and over 700 essays featured in various national publications. His works often discuss life in Evergreen Park and Chicago’s South Side, earning him recognition and awards. McGrath holds degrees in education and English, and he has held teaching positions at several institutions.
Workshop on Humane Cat Trapping at Blue Island Library
The Blue Island Public Library will host a session on humane trapping and neutering of cats on June 27 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Participants can learn about humane trap setting, find low-cost neuter clinics, and understand their rights as cat caretakers. A refundable deposit is required for trap loans. More details are available at TripleRPets.org.
Local Students Recognized as National Merit Scholars
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has awarded scholarships to students in its 71st annual program. Local honorees include Kinga Strzalka from Lemont, Neel Patel from Orland Park, and Ashton Zopf from Tinley Park, who are pursuing studies in science, quantitative analysis, and engineering, respectively. These students are part of a select group chosen through the PSAT/NMSQT exam process, sharing nearly $24 million in scholarship funds.
Church of the Transfiguration Holds Free Concert
The Church of the Transfiguration in Palos Park will host a free concert on July 2 at 7 p.m. The event features performances by Liturgical Folk and Good Lord, Rose. A potluck dinner with the bands will begin at 5:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP online, and donations are welcome.
Crete Woman’s Club Organizes Annual Garden Walk
The Crete Woman’s Club Garden Walk celebrates its 35th year, having gained recognition in the Woodland Tools garden walk competition. This year’s event takes place July 8 from 3 to 7 p.m. and July 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will feature residential gardens and farms, along with a vendor fair. Tickets are available at various local outlets, with additional details on the club’s website.