Winter clothing drives in Crestwood, Oak Forest, Blue Island, Midlothian
Area residents are invited to a winter wear collection event from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 22 at the Elks Lodge, 4268 Midlothian Turnpike in Crestwood.
New and gently used boots, coats, mittens, hats, gloves, scarves and warm clothing in sizes infant through high school are needed. Donations will be given away to youths in local needy families. Contributors receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win a prize, and muffins and coffee will be served.
Clothing also can be dropped off this month at Acorn Public Library in Oak Forest, the libraries in Blue Island and Midlothian, Biela Center in Crestwood and Oak Forest High School.
Underground Railroad talk set at Robbins church
The Midwest Underground Railroad Network presents noted historian and author Larry McClellan at its presentation “The Underground Railroad in South Chicagoland” at 3 p.m. Nov. 16 at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, 14139 Claire Blvd. in Robbins.
McClellan will discuss documented Underground Railroad routes and safe havens that were throughout the region, including historic sites within Robbins. The Underground Railroad, a secret network that guided many slaves to safe haven, still had its dangers in northern states, even though slavery was outlawed in many of them. Illinois and Chicago’s Southland played a sometimes unrecognized role in the effort.
“Many people are surprised to learn that their own neighborhoods played a role in this critical movement for freedom,” event organizer Tom Shepherd shared in a news release. “We hope this presentation will spark reflection, dialogue, and greater appreciation for the people who risked everything to help others find liberty.”
Admission is free to the presentation, which is open to the public, and refreshments will be available. Information is at 773-370-3305 or tomshepherd2001@yahoo.com.
Stagg High School expansion project earns kudos
An expansion project at Stagg High School in Palos Hills was chosen to join 24 projects on display at the 2025 Joint Annual Conference later this month as part of the Exhibition of Educational Environments, a juried showcase of innovative school design.
The exhibition, sponsored by the Illinois Association of School Boards Services Associates, recognizes new construction and renovations for administrative, recreational, instructional and other uses in Illinois school districts. Stagg’s expansion project, chosen for the display by architects, school board members and administrators, is in the major addition category.
Stagg alum Nikki Bridges, who worked for Studio GC as an architect on the project, said Stagg’s site required use of part of the courtyard as an outdoor learning space featuring native plants, rainwater collection barrels and a koi pond. The classroom addition, an extension of the science classroom, includes a green roof, planters, a greenhouse and room for scientific learning pods to be added.
Winter festival benefits iCan Dream Center
The iCan Dream Center at 18501 Maple Creek Drive in Tinley Park will transform into a winter wonderland for its Winter Dream Festival, set for noon to 6 p.m. Nov. 23.
Participants will find family-friendly activities and holiday cheer such as ice skating, choir performances, a beer garden, elf driving school ride, gingerbread slide, hayrides, live nativity and petting zoo, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painting, a basketball tournament and a community of trees with local partners.
A quiet sensory hour is planned for 11 a.m. to noon. Tickets cost $20 for general admission, $50 for a whole day wristband and $25 to enter the hoops tournament and can be bought online at icandreamcenter.com. All proceeds benefit the center’s vocational training and athletic programs, which aim to empower young adults with disabilities to receive confidence, purpose and real-world skills.
Pancake brunch boosts Operation Blessing
Pancake fans take heart: a pancake brunch that benefits Operation Blessing of Southwest Chicagoland is planned for 8 a.m. to noon Nov. 15 at Moraine Valley Church, 6300 W. 127th St. in Palos Heights.
Gluten-free pancakes will be available, and a bake sale also is set. The event, in its 41st year, has a suggested donation of $10 per person and $25 per family. Details are at 708-389-1268.
‘Alice in Wonderland’ performance at Shepard High School
Performances of “Alice in Wonderland” take place at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 20, 21 and 22 and at noon Nov. 22 in the Fine Arts Center at Alan B. Shepard High School, 13049 S. Ridgeland Ave.
Tickets cost $8 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and students. Accessible parking is available, as is seating for those who use a wheelchair. They are available online or call 708-371-1111.
‘Little Shop of Horrors’ takes stage in Palos Park
The Palos Village Players continues its performances of “Little Shop of Horrors” at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15 at the Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 123rd St.
Tickets to this classic horror/comedy musical cost $25 for adults and $23 for seniors and students. Tickets are sold at PVP.org.
Caregivers can learn how to navigate holidays
The impact of the upcoming holiday season on people with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia and their caregivers will be discussed at the Smith Village Caregiver Support Group meeting at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Smith Village, 2320 W. 113th Place, Chicago.
Crowds, additional noise, family activities and alcohol all can affect people with memory issues. Being prepared for changes in routine can help caregivers.
Life enrichment director Bridget Murphy and resident Alice Deane will lead the session, which is part of the Empowered Caregivers Series designed by the Alzheimer’s Association. Attendees can reserve a spot by calling 773-474-7302.
Open house set at H-F Racquet & Fitness Club
The public is invited to explore the H-F Racquet & Fitness Club from noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 16 at 2920 183rd St. in Homewood.
The event will show off the club’s amenities and new equipment, and attendees can join free classes, win prizes and test their strength and endurance. All guest fees are waived during the event. Membership deals and a table staffed by trainers will be available. Visit hfracuetandfitness.com or call 708-799-1323.
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