Native American Artist Visits Orland Park Library
Chicago-based artist Negwes White will exhibit his acrylic paintings titled Here & Now: An Urban Native Voice. Attendees can join his program from 10:30 a.m. to noon on July 11 at the Orland Park Public Library, located at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. White, a Walpole Island Ojibwe, Guachuchil from Mexico, and Diné from Fort Defiance, Arizona, will engage with visitors. He will share Native American stories, demonstrate a Plains Indian grass dance, discuss his artistic process, and address questions. White aims to educate and connect people through culture, language, and art. The exhibit will be available throughout July on the library’s second floor. More information is accessible at orlandparklibrary.org or by calling 708-428-5100.
Oak Lawn Artists Compete in Reflections Contest
Students at Oak Lawn Community High School showcased their talents in the Illinois PTA Reflections program’s 55th year. This national arts initiative offers students a platform to express themselves through various art mediums, such as film production, literature, music composition, visual arts, photography, and dance choreography. Out of 37 submissions from OLCHS, 15 students advanced to the state level, including 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. Honorable mentions were awarded to Weronica Makary, Mikayla Vazquez, Nathaniel Vega, and Jake Herpich. Addison Clark, Emily Prado, and Peyton Marshall advanced to the regional level and are eligible for national judging.
Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Grants Scholarships
The Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Club awarded $1,000 scholarships to students Gavin Hemminger, Elizabeth Ardagh, and Caden Wolfe. Elizabeth Ardagh from Lincoln-Way East High School plans to study biological sciences and neuroscience at the University of Notre Dame. Caden Wolfe from Andrew High School will focus on special education at DePaul University. Gavin Hemminger from Tinley Park High School aims to pursue a biology premed track at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Scholarships are given to students who exemplify Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.” The club has supported local and global initiatives since its charter in 1975. More details can be found at facebook.com/tpfrotary.
Underground Railroad History Picnic Set
On July 11, the Crete Historical Society and the Midwest Underground Railroad Network invite families to a community picnic and educational program. The event occurs from noon to 2 p.m. at Schubert Woods Pavilion in the Cook County Forest Preserve, located on Sauk Trail west of Ashlan Avenue near Steger and Park Forest. Families should bring their own food and seating, while drinks and treats are provided. Authority Larry McClellan will lead a guided hike to the McCoy Homestead site at 11 a.m. Arrive by 10:30 a.m. for the hike, followed by his lunchtime presentation around noon. A Crete Historical Society representative will discuss local Underground Railroad history and “Network to Freedom” designation updates at Crete Congregational Church. Musical performances by Lana Lewis and Al “The Voice” Mack are also scheduled. For details, call 773-370-3305.
Country Fest Comes to Tinley Park
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States at the Tinley Park Country Fest from July 3 to 5 at the Metra station, 18001 S. 80th Ave. Events run from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on July 3, noon to 11 p.m. on July 4, and 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on July 5. The festival features musicians from Nashville and local performers, including Ashley Walls, Eric Chesser, Whiskey Friends, Would Coulda Shoulda, The Walk-Ins, Music In Motion Kids, Knievel’s Daredevil Band, and Billy Gray Music. Guests can enjoy a line dancing lesson, rib vendors, local breweries, craft vendors, carnival rides, a beer garden, and a magic show. Fireworks will conclude the celebration. For schedules and tickets, visit TinleyParkCountryFest.com.
Worth Library Hosts Blood Drive
A blood drive is scheduled from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on July 8 at Worth Public Library District, 6917 W. 111th St. Hosted with Versiti Blood Centers, the drive is open to the public. Appointments are available, but walk-ins are welcome. Sign up at tinyurl.com/WorthLibraryLifeSavers.
Illinois Citizens Reentry Day Planned
Illinois Citizens Reentry Day, hosted by Joliet Unity Movement, advocate Elizabeth Protich, and Holsten Human Capital Development, will take place at Riverwalk Community Center, 350 N. Broadway in Joliet, from noon to 6 p.m. on July 3. The free event celebrates new beginnings with music, family activities, a spades tournament, voter registration, open mic poetry, storytelling, employment opportunities, and community resources. It honors the strength and contributions of individuals impacted by the justice system while connecting attendees with resources for successful reentry and long-term stability. More information can be found at Joliet815.com.