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Library Briefs

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PALOS PARK 

Rescheduled: An Evening with Michelle Zauner (Virtual)

Join us for an evening with musician and author Michelle Zauner as she discusses her music career and her beloved bestselling memoir, “Crying in H Mart.” Music critic and producer Jessica Hopper joins her in conversation from 7-8 p.m. Monday, May 30. Register online through the calendar.

Morse Code Bracelet

Morse Code is used to send confidential messages using dots and dashes. Utilizing different beads to mimic Morse Code, encrypt a bracelet with a secret message from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 31. All materials supplied.

Tiny Art Show Pickup

Starting June 1, pick up a tiny (3”x3”) canvas. Artists ages 6 and up are invited to create a miniature work of art. Submit completed work by Thursday, June 30. Art pieces will be on display in July before community members vote for the winners.

Under the Sea Mural

Starting June 1, children are invited to explore the ocean depths by adding sea creatures to a collaborative mural. The mural and supplies can be found in the Youth Department.

Gentle Yoga (Virtual)

Gentle Flow Yoga is geared specifically for those new to yoga or those who are interested in a gentle practice. This class from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, June 1. incorporates simple flowing sequences to warm up the body, as well as slower paced movements focusing on alignment, strength, balance, and flexibility. Modifications will be shown. Participants will need to be able to get up and down from the floor for this class. Register through our online calendar. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to you a day ahead of time.

Movie @ the Library: CODA

“Ruby is the only hearing member of a deaf family. At 17, she works mornings before school to help her parents and brother keep their fishing business afloat. But in joining her high school’s choir club, Ruby finds herself drawn to both her duet partner and her latent passion for singing.” Winner of Best Picture, Outstanding Cast Performance, and Best Writing. From 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, June 1.

Fishy Friday: Color to Help Save the Sea

Join other tweens for some relaxing coloring and conservation from 3-4 p.m. Friday, June 3. Learn about marine environmental issues and action steps to protect our oceans. Grab a friend and learn something new each Friday.

Summer Reading Kickoff

Help kick-off the summer reading program from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 4. Stop by the library to register for summer reading, make a craft, sign up for a library card, and a chance to win Brookfield Zoo tickets, Amazon gift cards, and Emmerson Toys gift cards. Learn about all the fun events this summer and so much more! Summer reading participants do not need to be Palos Park Public Library cardholders.

Insect Scavenger Hunt

Come to the library from May 16 to May 31 and search outdoors for a few (fake) hidden exoskeletons after picking up a list from the front desk. Once your list is completed, a special prize awaits. Recommended for ages 4-9.

Seed Library open

The Seed Library is now open. Palos Park Library cardholders can check out seeds by providing their name and library card. Each patron can check out three to four types per month. The goal of the seed library is to create a collection of seeds that are acclimated to local soil. After sowing, patrons are encouraged to harvest seeds and return extras to the library.

Spice of the month pickup

Pick up a Spice Kit that includes a spice sample, information on the spice, and several recipes. There is no registration or reservation. Simply walk into the library on the first Monday of the month and pick up a kit. They are available while supplies last, limit two per family.

Watercolor Painting with Ms. Mary Lou

Dabble in the art of watercolor painting from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 28. Watercolor painting is a great way for kids to learn about shades and express their dreams and emotions in art. Learn about artists Recommended for ages 6-9.

Tween Galaxy Wall Art

Paint the night sky and stars using a watercolor technique from 2-3 p.m. Saturday, May 28.  Create a unique galaxy piece and frame it in this program. All materials are supplied.

The library is located at 12330 Forest Glen Blvd. You can register online or through the phone. For more information, call 708-448-1530 or visit https://www.palosparklibrary.org/

PALOS HEIGHTS

Library closed for Memorial Day

The library will be closed Sunday and Monday, May 29 and 30, for the Memorial Day Holiday.  The library will be closed on Sundays until Labor Day.

Visit the library at the Farmer’s Market – June 1

The first 25 people to visit the Palos Heights Library booth at the Farmer’s Market between 10 a.m. and noon will receive a free gift.

New Checkouts at the Library

Palos Heights residents are able to check out six-foot folding tables and standard folding chairs for up to a 7-day check-out with a valid adult library card and identification upon availability.  Ask at the Circulation Desk for more information at 708-448-1473.

Learn How Videos at the Library

The Palos Heights Public Library is responding to new trends in how library users approach learning by creating tutorials and eResource training with easy-to-access videos from their website. Prospective users who want to learn at their own rate can explore these tutorials at any time, 24/7. These tutorials are designed to show how to use the different library resources such as downloading an e-book, e-audio or digital magazine, how to use Consumer Reports or other online resources, how to reserve a study room, reset your PIN, or even get a Palos Heights library card. These training videos may be found at the “Learn How” button on the homepage and on the Research Tools page of the website. Visit the library’s website to get started at phlibrary.org.

Clubs are back

The following clubs are back every Tuesday: Needle Crafters: 10 a.m.; Scrabble: 10 a.m.; Mah Jongg: 1 p.m.

Rosetta Stone 

Learn to listen, read, write and speak a new language! The Rosetta Stone Library Solution teaches by context clues and interactive feedback through your computer, tablet or mobile device for 30 different languages. Free with your Palos Heights Library card.

Programs for Adults

Programs for adults are in the process of changing over to hybrid program. The programs listed this week will be virtual with both in-house and virtual attendance. Please visit the library’s website at phlibrary.org to register for these events.

Discover Millennium Park – Hybrid Program 

Discover the history, the architecture, and public art of Chicago’s epic Millennium Park on Thursday, June 2, 6:30 p.m. Art Historian Jeff Mishur will discuss the project and some of its central features including: the Frank O. Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion and BP Bridge; Anish Kapoor’s “Cloud Gate” (aka “The Bean”) sculpture; Jaume Plensa’s Crown Fountain; and the Lurie Garden. This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Youth & Teen Programs

In-person programs are back! Programs are marked as follows: (R)=In-person program, registration required. (V)=virtual program, drop-in online. Recordings of all virtual events will be available on the library’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

Summer Reading Program – Read Beyond the Beaten Path

Kids of all ages and adults may read from June 1 to July 30 for chances to win prizes all summer along. Visit the library’s website to sign up at phlibrary.org or contact the library with any questions at 708.448.1473.

Bubble Wrap Beehive Painting (R)

Have fun painting with bubble wrap on Friday, May 27, 4 p.m., Grades K–3.

ORLAND PARK

Summer Reading Challenge: Read Beyond the Beaten Path

Sign up online or in person starting Tuesday, May 31, for the Summer Reading Challenge during June and July.

Kids
Birth – Grade 5. Read 800 minutes to earn a lunch bag and drawing tickets for mystery prizes! Earn extra tickets for reading more minutes. You can also enter to win the grand prize, a Kids Tent.

Teens
Grades 6-12. Read 5 books or 800 minutes. It’s your choice! When you finish, you will receive a lunch bag and drawing tickets for mystery prizes! Earn extra tickets for reading more. You can also enter to win the grand prize which will be on display in the lobby.

Adults
Ages 18+. Read 5 books or 800 minutes, and you will earn a lunch bag! You can also receive drawing tickets for gift cards and other prizes by reading up to 15 books or 2,400 minutes. Collect merit badges by attending book discussions, yoga classes, lectures, and more at the library all summer long!

Camp Readalot Jamboree

On Saturday, June 4, at 7 p.m. join other adult campers for an adults only summer Reading Kick-Off Event after hours at the Library. Attendees can enjoy a taco from Joey’s Taco Truck, sip campy beverages, roast marshmallows to make s’mores, and listen to classic camp and folk songs as we celebrate the beginning of summer.

This will be a ticketed event. Tickets are $9 and are available through Eventbrite.

Library offers new collection   

There’s more than just books available to check out at Orland Park Public Library.

Located at 14921 S. Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park Public Library will now offer a range of extra items for checkout like lanterns, folding tables, a step ladder, and a tent!

“Just in time for Summer Reading Challenge, we are going to be offering a tent for checkout,” Adult Services Manager Katie Allan said. “The theme of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge is Off the Beaten Path. We intend to do a lot of camp and camping themed programs over the summer.”

Library of Things items can be checked out for two weeks at a time and renewed if no one is waiting for them. Patrons will have to sign a waiver to use certain items, as the library wants to make sure patrons stay safe while trying out this new collection.

For more information, call 708-428-5100.

Local News

Chicago Christian’s Holland Winthrop eyes a high fastball during an at-bat last week. Photo by Xavier Sanchez

Softball | Jocelyn Hovanec scores two runs, Ks 12 in Chicago Christian win

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Spread the loveBy Xavier Sanchez Correspondent Chicago Christian  is working to find its footing in the inaugural season of the Chicagoland Christian Conference. The Knights entered this week 6-8 overall and 4-6 in the CCC, putting them in fifth place with just two conference games to play among their final seven regular-season contests. The Knights…

Chicago Christian players celebrate after a point during a match agsint St. Edward. Photo by Xavier Sanchez

Boys Volleyball | Chicago Christian finishes April strong, takes second at Ridgewood Invitational

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Spread the loveBy Xavier Sanchez Correspondent A busy and largely successful final seven days of April saw Chicago Christian briefly climb back to the .500 mark after a tough first month of the season. The Knights (11-12, 4-4 Chicagoland Christian Conference) have won seven of their past 10 matches, all of which were played over…

Marist middle hitter Jack Meador attacks against Glenbard West  in the championship match at the Lincoln-Way East Invitational on April 27 in Frankfort. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Boys Volleyball | Marist hands Glenbard West first loss of season

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Spread the loveBy Jeff Vorva Correspondent Marist was scary good in the first set. The RedHawks won it 25-12. Even by Marist standards, that’s pretty impressive. Complete dominance. What’s even more stunning is that it came against the second-ranked team in the nation. The RedHawks, who came into the match ranked sixth in the country…

Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson (left) looks for a pass from Penelope Hocking on April 27. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Sophia Smith’s brace sinks Red Stars

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Spread the loveBy Jeff Vorva Correspondent Home has not been that sweet lately for the Chicago Red Stars. The team lost its second straight game at SeatGeek Stadium with a 2-0 setback to Portland in front of an announced crowd of 4,443 on April 27. Portland star Sophia Smith scored in the 10th and 26th…

Nazareth Academy Principal Therese Hawkins and football offensive coordinator Casey Moran pay close attention to the drafting of J.J. McCarthy at The Stadium Club. (Photos by Steve Metsch)

Nazareth Academy celebrates ‘special talent’ J.J. McCarthy in NFL Draft

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Spread the loveBy Steve Metsch Dennis Moran has no doubts that J.J. McCarthy – the former Nazareth Academy quarterback who is now with the Minnesota Vikings – will succeed in the National Football League. Moran was among about 60 or so Nazareth Academy fans, friends and coaches who gathered Thursday night at The Stadium Club…

Al Perez

Brother Rice names Al Perez next soccer coach

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Spread the loveBy Jeff Vorva Correspondent A few new coaches are dotting the area high school athletic scene. One of the more notable hires was Brother Rice bringing Al Perez aboard as the soccer coach. Perez led Chicago Public League power Washington to a Class 2A state championship in 2013, a fourth-place finish in 2015…

The Palos Park Village Green tennis courts will go through a face-lift in the coming weeks. (Photo by Jeff Vorva)

Pickleball courts coming to Palos Park

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Spread the loveBy Jeff Vorva There will finally be outdoor pickleball in Palos Park. In a process that went longer than anticipated, the Palos Park Village Council was able give the green light to get a pickleball project started on the Village Green. The council voted April 8 to award the contract to U.S. Tennis…

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First Secure Bank to host American Eagle gold coin sale

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Spread the loveFrom staff reports First Secure Bank & Trust of Palos Hills announced its annual May sale of 1-ounce and ¼-ounce American Eagle Gold Coins, produced by the U.S. Mint, will take place from 10 a.m.to noon on Saturdays, May 4, May 11, May 18 and May 25. The sale will take place at…

Mayor Bob Straz presents Lois Duran with a certificate honoring her years of volunteer service in Palos Heights. Next to Lois is her son Gary. (Photo by Nuha Abdessalam)

Palos Heights recognizes volunteers

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Spread the loveBy Nuha Abdessalam Palos Heights handed out awards last week recognizing the services provided by volunteers through the years. The proclamations, which were read aloud during the city council meeting April 16, were a testament to the city’s volunteers and were handed out as part of Volunteer Recognition Week. Volunteers were cited for…

Richards’ A.J. Plawecki leaps into setting the ball during a match against Brother Rice at the Crusaders’ Smack Attack tournament held April 19-20. Photo by Xavier Sanchez

Boys Volleyball | Richards weathering struggles after run of success

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Spread the loveBy Xavier Sanchez Correspondent After a tough weekend at the Smack Attack tournament, Richards got back into the win column with a two-set victory over Eisenhower in a South Suburban Red match. The Bulldogs made quick work of the Cardinals, winning 25-16, 25-15 on April 23 in Oak Lawn to snap a five-match…

Neighbors

Flooding is Illinois’ Most Threatening Natural Disaster. Are We Prepared?

Flooding is Illinois’ Most Threatening Natural Disaster. Are We Prepared?

by Meredith Newman, Illinois Answers Project April 16, 2024 This story was originally published by the Illinois Answers Project. The electricity in Mary Buchanan’s home in West Garfield Park was not working – again.  The outage lasted four days, starting just after a crew dug up her front lawn to install a check valve in…

Lawmakers pitch sweeping changes to energy industry and Chicagoland transit system

Lawmakers pitch sweeping changes to energy industry and Chicagoland transit system

By ANDREW ADAMS  Capitol News Illinois aadams@capitolnewsillinois.com A group of lawmakers and influential environmental advocates are calling for broad changes to the state’s energy industry and a massive increase in state oversight of Chicagoland’s transit system – which faces a projected $730 million budget shortfall.  Advocates for the policy platform, which is broken up into…

Democrats flex muscle to kick off final month of session as revenues remain on track

Democrats flex muscle to kick off final month of session as revenues remain on track

By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois jnowicki@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – With about three weeks to go before the Illinois General Assembly is scheduled to adjourn its spring legislative session, supermajority Democrats showed their strength this week as fiscal forecasters noted state revenues remain on track. April is typically a make-or-break month for state coffers, as income…

Former state trooper who caused fatal crash halts effort to get driving privileges restored

Former state trooper who caused fatal crash halts effort to get driving privileges restored

By BETH HUNDSDORFER Capitol News Illinois bhundsdorfer@capitolnewsillinois.com The former Illinois State Trooper who pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter of two sisters in 2007 has abandoned his efforts to have a hearing into the restoration of his driving privileges – for now.  Matt Mitchell, 45, requested at least two delays in the hearing after he failed…

Capitol Briefs: Senate advances elections bill, measure targeting ‘predatory’ lending

Capitol Briefs: Senate advances elections bill, measure targeting ‘predatory’ lending

By PETER HANCOCK & HANNAH MEISEL Capitol News Illinois news@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – A bill that would put more controls on certain kinds of high-cost loans to small businesses cleared the Illinois Senate Thursday. Senate Bill 2234, known as the Small Business Financial Transparency Act, targets a relatively new kind of nontraditional lender in the credit…

Law enforcement community honors fallen officers at Illinois Capitol

Law enforcement community honors fallen officers at Illinois Capitol

By COLE LONGCOR Capitol News Illinois clongcor@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – Six fallen police officers were honored at an annual memorial service outside the State Capitol Thursday. The Illinois Police Officers Memorial occurs annually on the first Thursday of May to honor officers who died in the line of duty and to support their families.  “No one…

Democrats muscle through changes to ballot access, advisory questions

Democrats muscle through changes to ballot access, advisory questions

By JERRY NOWICKI HANNAH MEISEL & PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois news@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – Supermajority Democrats in the Illinois House moved quickly Wednesday to push through a change to state election laws that partially limits ballot access and adds three nonbinding referendums to the 2024 general election ballot.  It’s a move that caused minority party…

After 3 years, state poised to enforce law aiming to end lending discrimination

After 3 years, state poised to enforce law aiming to end lending discrimination

By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – In 1977, then-President Jimmy Carter signed into law the Community Reinvestment Act, a federal law that sought to wipe away the last vestiges of racial discrimination and redlining in America’s home mortgage industry. The idea was simple. By requiring lenders – primarily banks – to make…

Capitol News Illinois partners with ‘Illinois Lawmakers’ program to bring it back to air

Capitol News Illinois partners with ‘Illinois Lawmakers’ program to bring it back to air

Capitol News Illinois announced today it will produce the long-running “Illinois Lawmakers” program this spring, in partnership with longtime host and producer Jak Tichenor.  “This new partnership is absolutely critical to providing Illinois residents with reliable, independent, in-depth, up to date coverage from the Illinois Capitol after many newspapers and broadcasters shuttered their Statehouse bureaus over…

Election officials to weigh whether Darren Bailey and GOP operative Dan Proft illegally coordinated

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By ANDREW ADAMS & HANNAH MEISEL Capitol News Illinois news@capitolnewsillinois.com CHICAGO – A year and a half after Republican Darren Bailey lost his campaign to challenge Gov. JB Pritzker, state election officials are weighing whether he illegally colluded with conservative radio show host and political operative Dan Proft in the 2022 campaign. The State Board…