Local Events and Achievements Highlighted in the Community

Student Enlists Police for a Unique School Ride

A student at The Center’s Farm & Nature School in Palos Park experienced a memorable trip to school, courtesy of a successful auction. This auction aimed at raising funds for education received support from the Palos Park Police Department, led by police commissioner Dan Polk. Community Services Officer Grace Mischak and Officer Rebecca Duffy facilitated the unique experience, driving the student to school in a police car.

Blessing of the Waters Commemorates 20 Years in Blue Island

The esteemed Blessing of the Waters event celebrates its 20th year on June 28 at the Cal-Sag Channel located at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District waterfall in Blue Island. Scheduled for 3 p.m., the event includes musical performances and refreshments. Open to the public at no charge, it emphasizes the importance of water in sustaining life, ecosystems, and community connections. The scenic Cal-Sag waterway provides the backdrop for reflection and appreciation of natural resources.

Recognition for Park Forest Residents

Park Forest will host a ceremony to honor two notable figures, former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar and town founder Philip Klutznick. Plaques will be installed at the Birch Street Co-ops, places linked to their residences. The event is set for 9 a.m. on June 27, beginning at the former Klutznick residence and moving to Edgar’s former home. The Klutznick family settled there in 1948, while the Edgar family resided from 1969 to 1970.

Professor David McGrath Inducted into Hall of Fame

Evergreen Park Community High School has inducted David McGrath, a distinguished author and professor, into its Hall of Fame. A 1967 graduate, McGrath’s contributions include four books and over 700 essays in prominent newspapers and journals. His works capture stories from Chicago’s South Side, garnering accolades such as a finalist in EdPress awards and heartfelt op-ed recognition. McGrath’s academic career spans instructional roles at institutions such as College of DuPage and Florida Southwestern State College.

Library Offers Workshop on Caring for Outdoor Cats

The Blue Island Public Library will hold a session on managing outdoor cats, from humane trapping techniques to discovering affordable neuter clinics. Set for June 27, from 10:30 a.m. till noon, attendees can learn how to handle cats safely and the rights for caretakers to provide essentials in Cook County. Participants gain priority in trap-neuter-release assistance. More information is available on TripleRPets.org or by emailing [email protected].

Local Students Recognized as National Merit Scholars

Kinga Strzalka of Lemont, Neel Patel of Orland Park, and Ashton Zopf of Tinley Park earned the esteemed title of National Merit Scholars. Held by the National Merit Scholarship Program, each receives a $2,500 scholarship. Candidates were selected from juniors who took the PSAT/NMSQT, culminating in 6,700 finalists sharing scholarships worth nearly $24 million.

Palos Park Church Hosts Free Musical Event

Church of the Transfiguration in Palos Park will present a free concert on July 2 at 7 p.m., featuring Liturgical Folk, known for its unique blend of modern folk music and traditional church language. Another act, Good Lord, Rose, will perform before them. A potluck dinner at 5:30 p.m. accompanies the event, with donations welcomed.

Crete Woman’s Club Plans Garden Walk

The Crete Woman’s Club gears up for its 35th annual Garden Walk, recognized with a second-place trophy in the Woodland Tools garden walk competition. Set for July 8 and 9, this event features residential gardens, a wildflower farm, and an organic farm selling produce and goods. A vendor fair complements the experience, inviting community members to explore gardens and support local commerce. Tickets are sold at various outlets with details online at cretewomansclub.net.