Almost Home Collection. The Beverly Hills Junior Woman’s Club is partnering with Almost Home, a local non-profit, to provide shower kits for homeless guests in emergency shelters. The club is collecting bath/beach towels and washcloths (used is fine) until Oct 14 and donations can be dropped off at BAPA, 1987 W. 111th St., Christ the King Parish, 9235 S Hamilton Ave, or Bethany Union Church, 1750 W. 103rd St. A painting party fundraiser is planned for Fri., Oct. 6 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 9401 S Oakley Ave. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance. The event is BYOB and snacks will be served. Info: Carla Herr, 312-593-1129, beverlyjuniors@gmail.com, or GFWC Beverly Hills Junior Woman’s Club on Facebook.
Beverly Art Competition Accepting Applications. Artists within 100 miles of the city of Chicago are invited to enter the annual Beverly Arts Center Art Competition and Exhibition, a juried contest that offers prizes that range from $1500 for Best of Show to $100 for honorable mentions. The non-refundable entry fee is $35, and the submission deadline is Oct. 16. Established in 1976 by real estate developer Arthur Rubloff and artists William and Judie Anderson, the contest celebrates the talent of area artists. Finalists and winning works will be exhibited in the Jack Simmerling Gallery at the Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. The exhibit opening and awards presentation will be held on Nov. 11. Entry forms are available at the Beverly Arts Center or can be downloaded from the website, www.beverlyartcenter.org.
Tutors Needed at Mercy Home Walsh Campus. Mercy Home for Boys & Girls is in need of tutors to assist young women at the Walsh Campus, 11600 S. Longwood Dr. The commitment is one hour, once a week (the same night each week). To learn more about the tutoring program visit the website or contact marpil@mercyhome.org.
Smith Village Invites You to Ham it Up on Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, comedians and “closet hams” are welcomed to entertain an appreciative audience at Open Mic Night, Tues., Sept. 5, Smith Village Community Hall, 2320 W. 113th Pl. The monthly event is free and hosted by Debbie Parks, a guitarist and singer who teaches music at the Beverly Arts Center. Complimentary refreshments will be served. To sign up your act, contact Parks, dahp2002@aol.com or 773-574-9727. General info, Meghan Maple, 773-474-7300.
Garden Club Presents Tips for Lazy Gardeners. The Morgan Park/Beverly Hills Garden Club presents “Tips for the Lazy Gardener,” a program by landscape designer Cindy Tyley of Carriage House Designs, Wed., Sept. 6, 9:30 a.m., Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 9401 S. Oakley. The show and tell presentation demonstrates ways for indoor and outdoor gardeners to save time, energy and money.
BIA Garage Sale. Sept, 7 is the deadline for North Beverly residents to sign on to be part of the 3rd annual community-wide garage sale being hosted by Beverly Improvement Association (BIA) Sat., Sept. 16, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more about registering as a participant – which includes a garage sale permit — at beverlyimprovementassoc@gmail.com. Shoppers from all over are welcome to visit North Beverly, get a map from any participating home and browse for bargains.
Movie at Kellogg School. Area residents are invited to celebrate the start of the new school year for an outdoor screening of “The Lego Batman Movie,” Fri., Sept. 8 at dusk, Kellogg School, 9241 S. Leavitt. The event is hosted by Kellogg School and the 19th ward office. All are welcome.
Flea Market on the Lawn. The Women of the Castle will hold a Flea Market on the Lawn, Sat., Sept. 9, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Beverly Unitarian Church, 103rd and Longwood Dr. Shop for bargains and meet a friend. Info: 312-618-1814.
Wellness Seminar Series. Yoga for Healing Heartache and Loss, the first in a monthly Wellness Seminar Series, will be held Sat., Sept. 9, 3 to 5 p.m., Beverly Therapists 10725 S. Western, 2nd floor. Psychotherapist and yoga teacher Christine Sprayberry conducts the seminar, exploring how heartache impacts the body and how bodies impact minds. Participants will engage in gentle, beginner yoga movements, breath and intentional stillness. Also included are massage (optional), singing bowls, ambient nature sounds and aromatherapy. The series continues on the second Saturday each month through May. Info/registration: www.BeverlyTherapists.com or 773-310-3488.
Coffee, Tea, Flowers & Me. Coffee, Tea, Flowers & Me, an afternoon tea with a presentation by Anastasia Cosby of the Historic Pullman Beekeepers, will be hosted by the Cygnus Ladies of Bethany Union Church of Chicago, Sat., Sept. 9, at the church, 1750 W. 103rd St. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and serving begins at 2 p.m. The donation is $15 and seating is limited. Info/reservations: 708-975-3311.
Free Oak Saplings. Ald. Matt O’Shea and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District are providing free oak saplings, approximately six to ten inches tall. Reserve saplings online at www.the19thward.com, and pick them up on Sun., Sept. 10, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the 95th Street Farmers Market, 95th & Longwood Drive. Instructions for planting and care will be provided. The tree population throughout the City has been decimated by emerald ash borer infestations and extreme weather. Oak trees help provide an energy-saving green canopy for our community and help absorb rainwater that might otherwise flow into our sewer system and possibly flood residential basements. A medium size oak tree can absorb up to 2,800 gallons of rainfall per year.
Start Reading! The Second Sunday Book Club will be held Sun., Sept. 10, 2 p.m., Open Outcry Brewing Co., 10934 S. Western. The community is invited to read and discuss “A Paris All Your Own: Bestselling Women Writers on the City of Light,” a collection of all-new Paris-themed essays – from funny to romantic to reflective — written by some of the biggest names in women’s fiction. Copies of the book are available at Bookie’s, 10324 S. Western. Info: 773- 239-1110.
Youth Choir Concert. The Third Baptist Church of Chicago, 1551 W. 95th St., presents We Are Royalty, a concert by the youth choir and friends, Sun., Sept. 10, 3:30 p.m. Admission: $10/adults, $3 children age 10 and under.
Painted Lady Competition. The Chicago Paint and Coatings Association is accepting submissions to the 31st Annual Chicago Finest Painted Ladies and Her Court Competition, open to owners who have completed their exterior painting projects between Labor Day 2016 and Labor Day 2017. Buildings do not have to be Victorian architecture, and can be painted professionally or by the building owner. Entrants will be required to submit photos and paint chips. Applications, photos and competition details are available at 847-240-0102, director@chicagopaint.org or www.chicagopaint.org.
Sip and Shop. BAPA’sSip and Shop supporting local businesses, Thurs., Sept. 14 in the train station districts on 99th and 103rd Streets. Shopping starts at 6 p.m. on 103rd Street and continues to 99th Street, winding up with a BYOB after party from 9 to 11 p.m. at Tranquility. Included in admission &$10/advance or $15 at the event, and includes a souvenir wine tote, beverage and food tastings, trunks shows and demonstrations. Tickets are available at participating stores (look for the Sip & Shop posters) or online at www.bapa.org.
Warrior 3K Race. Runners age 10 an up are invited to register for the Kroc Fit Warrior 3K Race to be held
Sat., Sept. 16, 4 p.m., Kroc Center, 1250 W. 119th St. Fees are $25 for ages 10 to 14 and $45 for age 15 and older. Register online: https://register.chronotrack.com/r/31657 . Info: 773-995-3319
Midway Fly Way 5K. Registration is open for the Midway Fly Away 5K benefitting Special Olympics Chicago, Sun., Sept. 17, 9 a.m. on the airfield at Midway Airport. Prizes will be awarded to overall top finishers, and winners of the Grade School Challenge will win a trophy and pizza party for their team.info/registration: www.sochicago.org.
Mercy Circle Hosts Open House and Tour. As autumn ushers in a fresh cycle of activities, Mercy Circle, 3659 W. 99th St., welcomes the community to learn more about the continuing care retirement community at an open house Sun., Sept. 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served and visitors will be invited to tour the common areas: exercise room, chapel, boutique salon, library, dining room and bistro. Key staff members will explain the services, continuum of care and many amenities available at Mercy Circle. Info or private appointments: 773-253-3600.
Animal Assisted Therapy Training. Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy will conduct training in Evergreen Park for people and their dogs, Tuesdays, Sept. 19 through Oct. 10, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Participants must be age 18 or older and dogs must be at least 10 months old. All four classes are required, and once training is completed participants will be asked to give an hour of time twice a month. Info/registration www.Rainbowaat.org or 773-779-0451.
All Things Well Series. All Things Well, a five week studies series that focuses on ancient and new mindfulness, meditation and wellness, begins Thurs., Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m., Bethany Union Church of Chicago, 1750 W. 103rd St. Each of the sessions features a teaching on topics concerning mindfulness as well as practicing mindfulness. Rev. Dr. Lawrence Michael Cameron, a certified Spiritual Director and Religious Studies scholar, and a practitioner of the contemplative arts for over five decades is the instructor. There is no fee for the series. Session subjects include how to use mindfulness to relax and fall asleep, and sleep well; how to master an overstimulated brain; how to master negative and obtrusive thoughts; how to remedy your anxious mind and how to use mindfulness to manage pain and discomfort. Information: 773-779-0123 or www.bethanyunion.com
Words by Friends. Words by Friends will host a reading of original works by neighborhood writers Thurs., Sept. 21, 7 p.m., BAPA Community Room, 11109 S. Longwood Dr. Writers interested in learning more about reading their work can email longwoodwritersguild@gmail.com. Neighbors are encouraged to attend to enjoy a variety of stories and poetry.
Free Flu Shots. Ald. Matt O’Shea, Sen. Bill Cunningham and Rep. Fran Hurley will partner with the Chicago Department of Public Health to provide free influenza immunizations Sun., Sept. 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 19th Ward Office, 10402 S. Western. Flu vaccines are offered at no cost to adults of any age and children over six months old. No appointment is necessary and vaccinations are provided on a first come, first served basis. Info: 773-238-8766 or ward19@cityofchicago.org.
SXU Celebrates Homecoming Week. The Saint Xavier University (SXU), 3700 W, 103rd St., is planning spirit-filled activities for Homecoming Week, Sept. 24 through 30. Among the highlights are the Homecoming liturgy and presentation of Spirit of Saint Xavier awards on Sun., Sept. 24, 10 a.m.; Reunions for the classes of 1967 and 1992; the 17th Annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk Sat., Sept, 30, 9 a.m. followed by Cougar’s Corner Tailgate Tent and Family Fun Zone at 11 a.m. and the Homecoming Football Game: SXU vs. Taylor University, kicking off at 1 p.m. Info: 773-298-3316 or t alumni@sxu.edu.
Property Tax Appeals. The Cook County Board of Review is accepting property tax appeal applications for area homeowners for 2017 taxes (payable in 2018). The appeal paperwork is very simple and can result in significant savings. There is no fee for applicants and appealing cannot increase current assessments. Board of Review Commissioner Larry Rogers Jr., Ald. Matt O’Shea, Sen. Bill Cunningham and Rep. Fran Hurley will co-host an appeal assistance event Mon., Sept. 25, 6:30p.m., Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, 3857 W. 111th St. at 6:30pm. Staff from the Board of Review will be available to help residents complete appeal paperwork and address questions or concerns. Bring your tax bill or property index number to complete the paperwork. Appeals can also be filed online at http://www.cookcountyboardofreview.com/. Info: Colleen White, 773-238-8766 or colleen@the19thward.com.
Beverly Hills Turkey Trot. Registration is open for the 9th Annual Beverly Hills Turkey Trot 5K Run and Family Walk on Sat., Nov. 25. The Trot takes participants through the beautiful tree lined streets of North Beverly. Proceeds benefit the John McNicholas Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and the 19th Ward Youth Foundation. Runners will be chip-timed and walkers will be untimed. Register at www.the19thward.com. A $5 discount is available to CARA members. Participants will receive a t-shirt and gift bag. A post-race pancake breakfast sponsored by the Original Pancake House-Beverly will be held in the Christ the King School gymnasium. The after party will feature booths from sponsors and local organizations as well as entertainment. Info or to volunteer: Tristan Angus, Tristan@the19thward.com.
Teen LGBTQ+ Support Group: Local support groups, GROW and Gendernauts, have joined together to provide an affirming space for gender expansive, transgender, agender, lesbian, gay, queer, bisexual, LGBTQ+ high school aged teens. The free monthly meetings and social activity opportunities are held at Beverly Therapists, 10725 S. Western, 2nd floor. Info: Christina Sprayberry, 314-550-4384 or Bonn Wade, 773-330-2544.
Drum Circle for Wellness. Throughout history, drumming has brought people together to create a healing circle. On Sun., Oct. 1, 3 p.m., a Drum Circle for Wellness will tap the therapeutic power to music to increase the immune response, express emotion, stimulate the brain and nurture the spirit, at Beverly Therapists, 10725 S. Western, 2nd floor. No musical training required. $10 donation to benefit a future community event will be collected. RSVP: www.beverlytherapists.com.
Garage and Book Sale. Ridge Historical Society, 10621 S. Seeley Ave., will hold its annual garage and book sale Fri., Sept. 29 and Sat., Sept. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sun., Oct. 1, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations of tools, housewares, home goods, jewelry, furniture, antiques and books are now being accepted. No clothing will be accepted. Community residents are encouraged to use this event as an opportunity to clean attics, closets and basements of things no longer used but that can be treasures for someone else. This fundraiser helps the society’s efforts to preserve history. All contributions are tax deductible; a receipt will be provided. Info: 773-881-1675 or ridgehistory@hotmail.com.
Leave Your tracks at SXU’s Annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk. The cougar community will be on the prowl again through the streets of Evergreen Park during Saint Xavier University’s (SXU) 17th Annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk on Sat., Sept. 30. The race attracts new yearly participants as well as the returning running enthusiasts. It is a tradition grounded in spirit, a benefit to the whole community. The Cougar 5K Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m. on SXU’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. Runners, walkers and joggers will navigate the neighborhood and conclude on SXU’s main campus. Advance registration is $35 for runners/walkers and $40 on race day. There are registration discounts for SXU faculty, staff, alumni and students as well as for families. Registration can be completed online at www.sxu.edu, keyword: cougar 5K. Each Cougar Run participant will get a long sleeve performance moisture wicking t-shirt. Shirts are 100% polyester and feel like cotton. Stop into the Shannon Center to try on sizes. For more information, call the Cougar 5K hotline, 773-298-3592.
80th Anniversary Picnic. All families, alumni, and former staff are invited to a picnic and party Sat., Sept. 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Kellogg School, 9241 S. Leavitt, to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the school’s founding. The picnic will feature games, tours and more. Information will be posted at kellogg.cps.edu and Facebook.com/KateStarrKellogg Elementary
Juniors Offer Crafts at Farmers Market. The Beverly Juniors will be in the community tent at the 95th Street Farmer’s Market on Sun., Oct. 1 to share information about the club, host a craft activity for the kids and accept towel donations to help the homeless through the Almost Home non-profit. Info on membership and future events: beverlyjuniors@gmail.com or GFWC Beverly Hills Junior Woman’s Club on Facebook.
Reservations Open for Anti-Bullying Conference. Area resident Dorothy J. Thompson, head of Bullying Prevention and Awareness 365, and National Louis University, Chicago will hold a one-day conference, “The Collective Roles of Adults in Bullying Prevention and Students’ Well-Being,” at the University, Fri., Oct. 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Approximately 250 educators, paraprofessionals, authors, parents and anti-bullying activists are expected to attend. Reservations: www.bullyingprevention365.com.Questions: bullyingpreventionawareness365@gmail.com.
Beverly Theatre Guild Announces Cast for ‘Avenue Q.’ Actors from throughout southwest Chicago and Blue Island have been cast by the Beverly Theatre Guild for its fall musical, “Avenue Q.” Staged like a children’s show, “Avenue Q” is laugh-out-loud how about a recent Princeton graduate who moves to a shabby New York apartment and struggles to find a job and meaning in life. On Avenue Q, puppets are friends, monsters are good and life lessons are learned. Due to explicit content, the show carries a parental advisory. The show will be directed by Beverly/Morgan Park resident Glenn Hering. Performances will be held on the weekends of Oct. 20 to 22 and Oct. 27 to 29 at the Morgan Park Academy Arts Center, 2153 W. 111th St. Tickets are $21 and available online at www.beverlytheatreguild.org, or by calling 773-BTG-TIXS.
