Community Events and News Highlights

Native American Artist at Orland Park Library

Chicago-based artist Negwes White showcases his exhibit, Here & Now: An Urban Native Voice, at the Orland Park Public Library. The program is on July 11, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, in Large Meeting Room 104. White, of Walpole Island Ojibwe, Guachuchil from Mexico, and Diné heritage from Fort Defiance, Arizona, will engage with visitors. He will share Native American stories, demonstrate a traditional Plains Indian grass dance, discuss his creative process, and take questions.

The exhibit will remain on the second floor throughout July. For more details, visit www.orlandparklibrary.org or call 708-428-5100.

Oak Lawn Artists in Reflections Contest

Students from Oak Lawn Community High School participated in the 55th annual Illinois PTA Reflections program. This initiative allows students to express their talents in various art forms. Categories include film, literature, music, visual arts, photography, and dance choreography. Out of 37 submissions, 15 students advanced to the state level.

• Advancing students included Addison Clark, Peyton Marshall, and others.
• Honorable mentions: Weronica Makary, Mikayla Vazquez, Nathaniel Vega, and Jake Herpich.
• Advancing to regional and national judging: Addison Clark, Emily Prado, and Peyton Marshall.

Rotary Club Scholarships Awarded

The Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Club granted $1,000 scholarships to three local students. Recipients are:

• Elizabeth Ardagh, Lincoln-Way East High School, studying biological sciences at the University of Notre Dame.
• Caden Wolfe, Andrew High School, studying special education at DePaul University.
• Gavin Hemminger, Tinley Park High School, pursuing biology at Georgia Institute of Technology.

The scholarships honor students who embody the Rotary motto, ‘Service Above Self.’ Learn more at facebook.com/tpfrotary.

Underground Railroad History Picnic

The Crete Historical Society, along with the Midwest Underground Railroad Network, hosts a community event on July 11 from noon to 2 p.m. at Schubert Woods Pavilion. This free picnic and educational program will explore the region’s Underground Railroad history. Attendees should bring food and seating, although drinks and treats will be provided.

An 11 a.m. guided hike to the McCoy Homestead will precede a lunchtime presentation. Professor Larry McClellan will lead the hike and present historical information. Crete Historical Society will update on the ‘Network to Freedom’ designation effort. Musical performances are also planned. For more information, call 773-370-3305.

Tinley Park Country Fest

The Tinley Park Country Fest celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States from July 3 to 5 at the Metra station. Activities include live music, dance lessons, local breweries, craft vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks.

Performers will include Ashley Walls, Eric Chesser, and others. Visit www.TinleyParkCountryFest.com for details and tickets.

Blood Drive at Worth Library

A blood drive occurs on July 8, from 2 to 6 p.m., at the Worth Public Library. Versiti Blood Centers will support the event. Appointments are available, or walk-ins are welcome. Sign up at tinyurl.com/WorthLibraryLifeSavers.

Illinois Citizens Reentry Day

Joliet Unity Movement, Elizabeth Protich, and Holsten Human Capital Development organize Illinois Citizens Reentry Day on July 3 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Riverwalk Community Center in Joliet. The event supports and connects individuals impacted by the justice system.

Activities include music, open mic sessions, employment opportunities, and community resources. More information can be found at www.Joliet815.com.

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