Native American Artist at Orland Park Library
Chicago-based artist Negwes White will present his exhibit, Here & Now: An Urban Native Voice, at the Orland Park Public Library. The program will run on July 11, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, in Large Meeting Room 104 at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. White, who has roots in Walpole Island Ojibwe, Guachuchil from Mexico, and Diné from Fort Defiance, Arizona, plans to share Native American stories, perform a traditional Plains Indian grass dance, discuss his creative process, and engage with attendees through a Q&A session. White emphasizes teaching culture, language, and art to encourage pride and connection. The exhibit will be available throughout July on the library’s second floor. More information can be found at orlandparklibrary.org or by calling 708-428-5100.
Oak Lawn Students Compete in Reflections Contest
Students at Oak Lawn Community High School showcased their artistic talents in the Illinois PTA Reflections program, now in its 55th year. This national arts initiative provides a platform for students to express themselves through mediums such as film production, literature, music composition, visual arts, photography, and dance choreography. Among the 37 submissions from OLCHS, 15 students advanced to the state level, including Addison Clark, Peyton Marshall, Erin Sprull-Pennington, and more. Honorable mentions included Weronica Makary and others. Regional-level advancements, eligible for national judging, were Addison Clark, Emily Prado, and Peyton Marshall.
Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Scholarships Awarded
The Tinley Park-Frankfort Rotary Club, led by President Wendy Bumphis, awarded $1,000 scholarships to three local students. Recipients were Elizabeth Ardagh of Lincoln-Way East High School, Caden Wolfe of Andrew High School, and Gavin Hemminger of Tinley Park High School. These scholarships, given annually for over 15 years, reward students who embody Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self.’ The club, founded in 1975, supports community and global initiatives through volunteerism and partnerships. More details are available at facebook.com/tpfrotary.
Underground Railroad History Picnic
The Crete Historical Society and Midwest Underground Railroad Network invite families to a picnic and educational event on July 11, from noon to 2 p.m. at Schubert Woods Pavilion in the Cook County Forest Preserve. Attendees can learn about the Underground Railroad’s local history. Participants should bring their own food and seating. Complimentary drinks and treats will be available. At 11 a.m., Professor Larry McClellan will guide a hike to the McCoy Homestead site; attendees should arrive by 10:30. Following the hike, McClellan will present a talk at noon. A representative from the Crete Historical Society will discuss local historical activities and the ongoing “Network to Freedom” designation at Crete Congregational Church. Music by Lana Lewis and Al “The Voice” Mack will feature. For more information, call 773-370-3305.
Country Fest in Tinley Park
The Tinley Park Country Fest celebrates America’s 250th anniversary from July 3 to 5 at the Metra station, 18001 S. 80th Ave. Events 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 Ashley Walls, Eric Chesser, and more. Festivities also feature line dancing lessons, food vendors, craft vendors, carnival rides, a beer garden, and a magic show. Fireworks will cap the event. Visit TinleyParkCountryFest.com for schedules and tickets.
Worth Library Hosts Blood Drive
The Worth Public Library District hosts a blood drive with Versiti Blood Centers on July 8 from 2 to 6 p.m. at 6917 W. 111th St. Public participation is encouraged, with appointments available and walk-ins welcome. Register at tinyurl.com/WorthLibraryLifeSavers.
Illinois Citizens Reentry Day in Joliet
The Joliet Unity Movement, advocate Elizabeth Protich, and Holsten Human Capital Development organize Illinois Citizens Reentry Day, free for the public on July 3 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Riverwalk Community Center, 350 N. Broadway. The event celebrates resilience and contributions of those impacted by the justice system, offering music, family activities, voter registration, and employment resources. For more details, see Joliet815.com.
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