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Updated: January 2, 2012 8:18AM

The Lake Forester welcomes items for the Community Calendar, as well as items for School Digest, Newsmakers and other sections. Items must be received a minimum of 10 days prior to publication; earlier is better. E-mail smauter@pioneerlocal.com, fax (847) 599-6902, or mail to Stephanie Mauter, Lake Forester, 1225 N. Tri-State Parkway, Suite 520, Gurnee, IL 60031.

Boutiques

Residents who enjoy decorating their homes await the annual Holiday Boutique at Mariani Landscape (www.marianilandscape.com). This year’s public event, showcasing a wide variety of decorating ideas, materials and accessories for sale, will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 25 - Dec. 18 at the company’s headquarters, 300 Rockland Rd., Lake Bluff.

The Lake Bluff Women’s Club will hold its annual Christmas Boutique and Luncheon at 11 a.m., Dec. 13 in the Grace United Methodist Church, 244 East Center Avenue, Lake Bluff. The boutique will offer a bake sale of home-baked cookies, coffee cakes, breads and cookies along with holiday decorations. A catered lunch by Kenny’s of Lake Bluff will be served at noon. A holiday musical program will feature the Women of Note performing their “Traditional Holiday Program.” Membership is open to all women no matter of geographic location. Reservations are required and can be made by calling Donna Dieball, (847) 295-3542.

Business

Career Resource Center Inc. is located in Lake Forest at Grove Cultural Campus, 40 E. Old Mill Rd., Suite. 105 and provides professional, individualized and comprehensive resources for re-employment. For more information, visit www.CareerResourceCenter.org or call (847) 295-5626.

The following programs are for December:

12 Key Attributes Employers Evaluate, 10:30 a.m., Dec. 2

Articulating Your Strengths With A Compelling Resume, 10:15 a.m., Dec. 5

Expand Your Connections -- Building Your Network, 7 p.m., Dec. 6

Not Your Typical Office Holiday Party, 1-3 p.m., Dec. 14.

Make A Better Impact, 10:15 a.m., Dec. 28

Clubs

American Association of University Women Lake Forest Lake Bluff Branch welcomes college graduates to join with other area grads in stimulating and enjoyable meetings and special interest activities. Call (847) 234-5886 or (847) 295-8814.

Artists on the Bluff meets at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of the month at Blair Park community room, Green Bay Road and Washington, Lake Bluff (one block north of Route 176). Join fellow area artists for demonstrations, talks, workshops, community activities and the summer Arts Festival. Call Julian Gordon, membership chairman, at (847) 234-2089.

Kiwanis Club of Lake Bluff and Lake Forest holds dinner meetings at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month at Village Grill, Lake Bluff Golf Course (Green Bay Road and Washington - one block north of Route 176). Cost $15. Learn more about service and social opportunities with this charitable organization. Call David Lee at (847) 615-3083.

Lake Bluff American Legion welcomes all veterans. Regular meetings are at 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month in the Community Room of the Lake Bluff Public Safety Building. Post activities include Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veterans Day in Lake Bluff, Legion Boy’s State and Girl’s State, Americanism Contest, Vocational Awards and support for the Veteran’s Assistance Program and VA Hospital. Contact Commander Rudy Iberle at (847) 295-8468.Lake Bluff Garden Club members meet at 11:45 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month either in a member’s home or a nearby public facility. Anyone interested in joining the club or wishing to learn more about its activities should call Membership Chairman Nan Patterson at (847) 295-5058.

Lake Bluff Women’s Club is a philanthropic organization which was founded in 1904. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at Grace United Methodist Church, 244 East Center Ave., Lake Bluff, from October through May. A luncheon is served at noon followed by a business meeting and program. The club offers free baby-sitting service for members at the church during the meeting. For membership, call Mary Gustafson at (847) 731-3585.

Lake Forest American Legion welcomes all veterans. Dinner/social meeting is second Monday each month. Business meeting is fourth Monday each month. Dinner meetings are at 6:30 p.m. and business meetings are at 7:30 p.m. The group supports veterans and the youth of the community. Call (847) 234-9870.

Lake Forest International Club is a non-profit, non-political organization whose purpose through its monthly events is to foster the social, cultural, educational and philanthropic enjoyment of its members and the community. It is open to residents of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, who were either born in another country or have lived abroad for at least two years. Contact Joanna Koperski at (847) 668-0096.

Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Community Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago is an organization that promotes appreciation of art for its members. The Art Associates provides art tours, day trips and lectures throughout the year. The group contributes to special projects at the AIC, funds art scholarships for students, and provides an art appreciation outreach program in the elementary schools in North Chicago. For information and membership, call membership chair Grace Roebel at (847) 735-9932.

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Junior Women’s Club inivte all local women to join the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Junior Women’s Club. We’re an open social and philanthropic organization which promotes friendship and community support through meetings and events. The Club holds monthly social activities in addition to two major fund-raising events each year.

Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Lions Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at the Lake Bluff Golf Course Clubhouse. Lions clubs are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfill those needs. Contact Membership Chairman Jim Gregory at (847) 234-0216 or Mike Hazen at (847) 223-7500.

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Running Club meets Saturdays at the Lake Forest East Train Station at 8 a.m., rain or shine. Come meet new people and stay fit. Various distances. Call Jenny Spangler, (847) 249-1725, or e-mail: JandMFitness@aol.com.

Lake Forest Symphony Guild is a social and fund-raising organization of the Lake Forest Symphony. New members are always welcome. Call Betty Benton at (847) 234-5279.

Lake Forest Woman’s Club is a social and philanthropic organization dedicated to raising funds for scholarships and “Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders Today.” Club meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month. All women are welcome. Yearly membership is $50. For additional information regarding membership, please contact Carol Sarsfield at (847) 283-9016.

La Leche League of Lake Forest will meet at 9:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of the month at Church of the Holy Spirit, 400 E. Westminster Rd., Lake Forest. Babies and children are welcome. Contact Rachael Spencer at (847) 574-2544.

League of Women Voters - Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Area, a non-partisan political organization, invites men and women of voting age to join. Activities include voter registration drives, candidate forums, advocacy, and public policy programs. Be part of the solution! For more information, visit our website www.lwv-lflb.org or call Jane Partridge (847) 234-1247.

Mothers Trust Foundation is a nonprofit organization in Lake Forest that provides emergency assistance for children in Lake County. Visit www.motherstrustfoundation.org for a description of the program, to volunteer, to make a donation, or for information about upcoming events. Call the MTF office at (847) 482-9189, or e-mail motherstrust@motherstrustfoundation.org.

People to People International promotes peace through understanding with direct cultural and humanitarian exchanges. For further information, please call Janet Henderson at (847) 295-5699.

The Newcomers Club of Lake Bluff and Lake Forest is a not-for-profit organization promoting friendship among new residents of these communities through meetings, luncheons, social events and activities. Call Janita Reehl at (847) 235-2780 or visit www.lblfnewcomers.com.

The North Shore Camera Club is a member of the Chicago Area Camera Clubs Association (CACCA). Its members enjoy a full schedule of presentations, workshops, field trips and competition, with an emphasis on sharing knowledge and building relationships with other club members. For further information, visit www.northshorecameraclub.com or phone Club President Allen Davies at (847) 234-9039.

The North Shore Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will meet at 1 p.m. Dec. 8 at the home of Donna Fitzgerald in Fort Sheridan. The Grove of Glenview will present an Historical Trunk Show. Guests are invited. For program information, contact Donna Fitzgerald, (847) 433-4333. For membership information, contact Margery Piersen at (847) 945-6584.

The Shoreline Dance Club invites couples to their dances at Gorton Community Center, Lake Forest. You and your partner will review basic Count Hustle steps and learn new ones in a relaxed atmosphere on Jan. 21. The lesson, taught by Bob and Penny Urbon, begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. and is followed by an evening of social dancing. Admission is $20 for members and $25 for guests. Membership per couple is $20 per year. Attire is dressy/casual. Light refreshments are provided. For further information, call (847) 816-7602 or (847) 566-2177 or visit www.ballroomchicago.com/shoreline.htm

Community

The 15th annual Christmas Tree Sale is being held Dec. 3-4 and Dec. 10-11 at Artesian Park in Lake Bluff, sponsored by Grace United Methodist Church. You can also tag and hold a tree anytime. All proceeds go to local and worldwide missions.

A Holiday Celebration, hosted by the directors of the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation, will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the historic Charles H. Schweppe estate, 405 N. Mayflower Rd., Lake Forest with wine and hors d’oeuvres. Reservation for members ($20 per person), and guests and non-members ($30 per person). Call (847) 234-1230 for more information.

Join Lake Forest College for a free Ethics Center Lecture with U.S. Ambassador at Large for War Crimes Issues, David J. Scheffer at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 1 in the Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel, 555 N. Sheridan Rd., Lake Forest. Scheffer will speak about his role in the negotiations establishing the International Criminal Court.

The Lake Bluff History Museum will host its Christmas Tour from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 2-3, taking participants inside five fabulous Lake Bluff homes decorated for the holidays. The tour starts at the Lake Bluff History Museum where participants receive a booklet, tour agenda and map for the self-guided tour. Tickets are $35 and will be sold for one of two time slots each day: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. Tickets are available at ChristmasLakeBluff.com and at the Lake Bluff History Museum during museum hours (1-4 p.m. Tuesday/Thursday and from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday). Questions? Call (847) 482-1571 or events@lakebluffhistory.org

The Lake Bluff/Lake Forest Kiwanis Club, in conjunction with the Lake Bluff Park District, will hold its annual Breakfast with Santa Pancake Breakfast from 8-11 a.m., Dec. 10 at the Grace United Methodist Church, 244 East Center Ave., Lake Bluff. Tickets are available at the door are free for children age 2 years and under, $5 for children ages 3-12 and $10 for ages 13 and over. Proceeds from the Breakfast with Santa will go to local charities in keeping with Kiwanis International’s mission to “Serve the Children of the World” through both global and local initiatives.

The Deer Path Art League strives to spark, nurture and enhance creativity as well as raise awareness and appreciation of the arts in the community. The League’s offices and studio classrooms are located in Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday, Saturday by appointment. For program information and volunteer opportunities, visit www.deerpathartleague.org or phone (847) 234-3743 or email info@deerpathartleague.org . Join us for our seasonal exhibition “Art is…Celebration!” Our Gallery exhibit and Gift Shop are filled with one of kind gifts for you and your loved ones! Enjoy this wonderful opportunity to support the arts and keep your holiday shopping local. Exhibition runs through Jan. 4.

Citadel Theatre invites the public to join them in its 150-seat theatre at 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest. The location offers free parking and exclusive offers with partner restaurants: Alek’s, Francesca’s Intimo, The Grille on Laurel, Lovells of Lake Forest, South Gate Cafe and Bank Lane Bistro. Group rates available. Tickets can be ordered through www.citadeltheatre.org or by calling (847) 735-8554.

Citadel Theatre Company kicks off the Yuletide season on Nov. 25 with its all-new production of Dickens’ holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. The staged presentation will run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. until Dec. 30 in Citadel’s new home in the West Campus Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest. In addition, there will be a 1 p.m. matinee on Dec. 15, and 3 p.m. on and Dec.10. (no performances Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.)

SpeakUp! Prevention Coalition is launching its third annual Parents Who Host Lose the Most campaign to remind parents and community members that it is illegal to provide or knowingly allow underage youth to consume alcohol or other drugs. Signs are being posted around Lake Forest and Lake Bluff to remind parents and the community to work together to keep youth safe from alcohol and drug use. Residents or organizations interested in displaying a lawn sign with the Parents Who Host message can obtain one by contacting the Speak Up! office at (847) 295-9075.

The “Shop With Spirit” card and the Spirit of 67 Foundation is teaming up with Lake Forest retailers to anyone interested in supporting Lake Forest’s children and business. Seventeen participating retailers are offering discounts to Spirit Members when they shop. For the Shop With Spirit program, call Stephanie Cook at (847) 732-0251. For Spirit membership, contact Fronzie Roemen at (847) 735-1536 or visit www.spiritoffoundation.org.

CROYA

CROYA (Committee Representing Our Young Adults) is the youth organization for all seventh- and eighth-graders and high school students who live in Knollwood, Lake Bluff and Lake Forest. For more information and an updated calendar of events, visit www.croya.com or call the office at (847) 810-3980.

Student Union After School Hours: 3:30-5:30 p.m., Monday - Friday

TAPS is the teenage placement service. If you are interested in posting or applying for a job, call Marilynn at (847) 615-4304.

Deer Path Art League

The Deer Path Art League strives to spark, nurture and enhance creativity as well as raise awareness and appreciation of the arts in the community. The League’s offices and studio classrooms are located in Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday, Saturday by appointment. For program information and volunteer opportunities, visit www.deerpathartleague.org or phone (847) 234-3743 or e-mail info@deerpathartleague.org . Join us for our holiday exhibition “Art is...Celebration!” A special Saturday Shopping Day will be held from 10 a.m.-noon, Dec. 3 where you will find artfully created, varied in price and not to be found anywhere else. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

Fundraisers

In the spirit of its production of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Citadel Theatre is collecting canned food and warm clothing at the theatre for distribution to the needy by the Holy Family Food Pantry of Waukegan. New ticket buyers for performances of the holiday classic will get a $5 discount off the general admission price, if they bring an item of warm clothing or two cans or boxes of non-perishable food on performance dates between Nov. 25-Dec. 23. (A Christmas Carol continues through Dec. 30, with no performances Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.) A Christmas Carol is performed at Citadel’s West Campus Theatre in Lake Forest Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m., plus a 1 p.m. matinee on Dec. 15, and 3 p.m. matinees on Dec. 10. Further information is at www.citadeltheatre.org.

GLASA

The following camps and events will be offered through GLASA:

Wheelchair Football, sponsored by the Chicago Bears, 7-8:30 p.m., Thursdays, at Libertyville Sports Complex, 1950 N. Highway 45, Libertyville.

GLASA Holiday Party, 12:30-4 p.m., Dec. 3 at Round Lake Beach Sports Center, 2004 N. Municipal Way, Round Lake Beach. There will be a variety of adaptable activities including wheelchair basketball, rock climbing, goalball and wheelchair football 12:30-3 p.m.; pizza and refreshments served from 2:30-4 p.m.

Golf, 6-8 p.m., Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 at Buffalo Grove Golf and Sports Center, 801 McHenry Rd., Wheeling; $65.

Floor Hockey for friends and family members (age 8 and up). Manual wheelchirs available for use, 7-8:30 p.m., Dec. 14 at Greenbrier Elementary School, 2330 N. Verde, Arlington Heights; $55.

Sled Hockey, Sundays through Dec. 11 at Hot Shot Ice Rink: 3:15-3:45 p.m. Divided Ice Youth/Adult; 3:45-4:45 p.m. Combined Full Ice Youth/Adult; 4:45-5:30 p.m. Tournament Team Practice Full Ice.

Horsemanship, Tuesdays or Thursdays, 6-6:30 p.m. or 6:30-7 p.m., Oct. 11-Dec. 8 at Horse Feathers Therapeutic Riding, 1181 Riverwoods Rd., Lake Forest; $15 per half hour lesson.

Judo, 6-7:30 p.m.,Tuesdays, Wednesdays,Thursdays thru Dec. 15 at Gurnee Judo Club, 4411 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee; $78/one, two, three days per week.

Power Soccer for individuals who utilize a power chair, 7-8:30 p.m., Oct. 5-Dec. 14 at Nelson School, 8901 Ozanam Ave., Morton Grove; $105.

Swim Lessons-Bensenville, 2-3 p.m., Mondays, Dec. 12; (630) 670-4665; $7 per lesson.

Private One-on-One Swim Lessons, Mondays, thru Dec. 5 in Waukegan at Northern Lake YMCA, 2000 Western Ave.; $20 per half hour. Call for times.

Adaptive Tennis for ages 8 and up, Oct. 1-Dec. 10, Saturdays, at Northwestern University’s Combe Tennis Center, 2311 Campus Dr., Evanston; $140. Call for times.

Lending Closet - Are you looking for a handcycle, wheelchair or beep baseball set to borrow? Why not borrow from our Lending Closet! Contact Tom Daily at (847) 406-9701.

Looking to Volunteer? Interested in sharing your passion for swimming, tennis and various other sports this winter or assist GLASA this spring with our Track and Field program? Contact Cindy Clement, GLASA Volunteer Coordinator at cclement@glasa.org or visit the GLASA website at www.glasa.org for more detailed information.

Saturday programs:

Jr. Prep and Prep Wheelchair Basketball for ages 4-12 years who are beginners or potential players, 11 a.m.-noon thru Dec. 10 at Lake Bluff Elementary School, 350 W. Washington; $85.

JV Wheelchair Basketball for ages 10-high school, noon-2 p.m., thru Dec. 10 at Lake Bluff Elementary School, 350 W. Washington; $170

Learn To Swim for ages 3 and up, 9-10 a.m. or 10-11 a.m. thru Dec. 3 at Northbrook YMCA,, 2705 Techny Rd., Northbrook; $50

Swim Team/Lap Team, 9-11 a.m. and 10-11 a.m. thru Dec. 3 at Northbrook YMCA, 2705 Techny Rd., Northbrook; $140 2-hour session; $70 1-hour session. Individual must be able to swim one lap with a recognizable stroke.

Gorton Community Center

The following programs are held at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Call (847) 234-6060, visit www.gortoncenter.org

Yoga with Kristy Harley on: Mondays - 6:45-7:45, Sept. 12-Dec. 5; Tuesdays - 10-11 a.m., Sept. 13-Dec. 6; Thursdays - 10-11 a.m., Sept. 15-Dec. 8. Fee $165.

Performing Arts Fall Theatre Academy presents Rapunzel, a Tangle Fairy Tale, directed by Tom Beck. Performance will take place at 1 p.m., Dec. 3. To register, go to www.gortoncenter.org or call (847) 234-6060.

North Suburban Symphony performs Beloved Beethoven, at 4 p.m., May 13 time: TBA

Yoga at Gorton with Steve Nakon Nov. 23 - Dec. 21, Wednesday 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday evenings 7 - 80 p.m.; $75 for five weeks. For registration info call Northwest Yoga (847) 590-1221

Shoreline Dance Club - Review basic ballroom steps and learn new ones in a relaxed atmosphere. Professional instructors, Bob and Penny Urbon begin lessons promptly at 7:30 p.m., followed by an evening of social dancing. For information, call (847)816-7602 or (847) 566-2177 or visit Shoreline Dance Club Admission per couple is $20 for members and $25 for guests. Dance Schedule: Jan. 21- 4-Count Hustle; Feb. 18-Waltz; March 17-Cha-Cha; April 21-Fox Trot; May 19-Rumba.

Chess for Kids with Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation - Students master the rules of chess, basic principles of opening and endgame along with strategies and tactics of the game. For ages 6 years and up. Session I: 4-5 p.m., Tuesdays, Nov. 15 - Dec. 15 (five classes) $75; Session II: 4-5 p.m., Tuesdays, Jan. 10 - March 20 (11 classes); $165

Bubbles Academy Music & Motion Classes, Thursdays, thru Dec. 15. Walkers (12-24 months): 9:15 -10 a.m.; Walkers (24-36 months): 10:15-11 a.m.; Babies & Crawlers: 11:15 a.m.-noon; $150 for ten weeks (normally $200 for ten weeks). Register online at bubblesacademy.com/GCCSchedule.asp or call Bubbles Academy at (312) 944-7677

Bubbles Academy Winter Jubilee, Dec. 19 - Jingle along with a live music performance and enjoy some toasty snacks. Create a seasonal art project and say “hello” to a special guest, Santa. This event is ideal for children ages 0-7 years. Pre-registration is required, call (312) 944-7677 to register. $10 per family. One hundred percent of proceeds will benefit Openlands.

Volunteer Opportunities at the Gorton Community Center invites you to participate in Gorton’s mission “To Be the Heart of the Community.” Opportunities include assisting with special events and performances and activities in the office with adults and children’s programs. For more information, call (847) 234-6060 or stop by at 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest.

If you are looking for quality child care, then Gorton Children’s Drop-In Center is the perfect spot for busy parents to put their children, ages 6 weeks through 6 years. The Center is open from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and is licensed by DCFS. Cost to enroll for the school year is $195 for one child and $250 for families with two or more children. The hourly fee is $8 per hour for the first child and $4 per hour each additional child when attending at the same time. Call for a tour: (847) 234-2799 or visit us at www.childrensdropincenter.com

Hospital

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital will hold the following programs. Call Community Education at (847) 535-6112 or the number listed or go to lfh.org/events to register.

Wellness and Prevention:

Freedom from Smoking - Cessation Program - eight-week program at Lake Forest Health and Fitness Center. Register at jlabovitz@lfh.org or call (847) 535-7071. Call for cost and dates.

Wellness 180 - Lower your blood sugar and blood pressure from 3:45-4:45 p.m. or 5-6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays or 6-7 a.m. or 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Lake Forest Health and Fitness Center. Register at jlabovitz@lfh.org or call (847) 535-7071. Call for cost.

Wellness 180 Lite - This version consists of a cardio workout for half the class time and light free weights the other half. Ten-week classes in spring, summer and fall. Register at jlabovitz@lfh.org or call (847) 535-7071. Call for cost.

Therapeutic Yoga for Arthritis, 1-2 p.m. Fridays in spring, summer and fall. Register at jlabovitz@lfh.org or call (847) 535-7071. Eight-week session, $80.

Childhood Immunization Clinic - Walk-in from 9-11 a.m. the fourth Saturday of the month. Please bring your child’s immunization records with you. Cost is $10 per dose; no one will be turned away due inability to pay.

Women’s Heath:

Prenatal and Postnatal Simply Strength specializing in band training and free-weights from 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Thursdays or 5-6 p.m. Fridays at the Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center and Lindenhurst Health & Fitness Center. Register at jlabovitz@lfh.org or call (847) 535-7071. Members free/non-mem. 5 pack $90 and 10 pack $150.

WomenHeart - Support Group in partnership with Lake Forest Hospital. Come and share your experience with someone who really understands your thoughts, concerns and feelings. The group meets once a month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month (except July) in conference rooms B/C at Lake Forest Hospital. For more information, call Debbie Dunn-Survivor, WomenHeart Spokesperson at (847) 987-8074 or womenheart.org

Health Screenings:

Free Hearing Screenings - Sign up for at either the Lake Forest or Grayslake campus. Contact the audiology department at (847) 535-6114. If you’ve already had a comprehensive hearing test or wear hearing aids, this screening is not for you. Adults only.

Free Speech and Language Screening for Children - If your child is between 3 and 6 years old, and you wonder if his or her speech and language development is on track, schedule an appointment for a free speech and language screening. This 15-minute appointment can be scheduled at the Lake Forest or Grayslake campus by calling (847) 535-6114. If your child is under 3, request a free phone consultation with a speech language pathologist.

Support:

Life after Stroke Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., first Tuesday of the month in Banquet Room at Lake Forest Health and Fitness Center, 1200 N. Westmoreland Rd., Lake Forest. This free support group is for survivors of stroke and their adult family members and friends. Registration is not required, and all are welcome. For more information, call (847) 535-6459.

WomanHeart Support Group - Share your experience with someone who understands your thoughts, concerns and feelings. The group meets once a month from 6:30-8 p.m. on the third Thrusday of the month at the Health Educational Center, Lake Forest Campus. Call (847) 987-8074.

Alzheimer’s Support Group meets from 2-3 p.m. and again at 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. the first Thursday of each month in the Westmoreland Nursing Center Library, 660 N. Westmoreland Road (adjacent to Lake Forest Hospital). Call (847) 535-6764.

R.T.S. (Resolve Through Sharing) Bereavement Services -- for parents who have lost babies. Meets from 7-9 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month in the Hunter Family Center for Women’s Health, Lake Forest Campus. Call (847) 535-6336.

Bereavement and Grief addresses coping with common symptoms of grief. Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month 3:30-5 p.m. at Lake Forest Hospital, 660 N. Westmoreland Road. For more information and to register, call Heartland Hospice, (847) 991-0176.

National Stuttering Association Support Group provides emotional support and encouragement to people who stutter. Meets 7-9 p.m. the first Thursday of every month in the Lake Forest Hospital Cafeteria (meeting room 2), 660 N. Westmoreland Road. For more information, call Art Struss at (847) 970-5067.

Surviving Motherhood Support Group for new (or not-so-new) moms. Two groups are offered based on your baby’s age, and you can participate regardless of where you delivered. Meets once a month from 10 a.m. to noon at various locations. Call (847) 535-6182.

LEAD

LEAD is a community organization dedicated to parents and their role in promoting healthy family relationships and preventing alcohol, drug use and other risky behavior by youth. LEAD provides educational opportunities to assist parents in raising children who make healthy decisions. For program information and additional resources, visit leadweb.org or call (847) 295-9075. To register for programs, www.LEADweb.org

Speak Up! reminder: Keep any perscription and over-the-counter medication in a secure location where children cannot access it. Dispose of unwanted medication at the Lake Forest Police Department (drop-off in lobby, open 24/7). All medication will be incinerated.

Library

Lake Bluff Public Library:

Lake Bluff Public Library, 123 E. Scranton Ave., offers the following programs. Please call (847) 234-2540 for questions or to register for all programs.

Book Talk at Lake Bluff Public Library, 7 p.m., Dec. 1 - Hear about books that will grab your interest and are found in our library - but NOT on the bestseller list! Librarians Carlen DeThorne and Eric Bailey will each highlight four-six mysteries and thrillers that appeal to adults in a 30-minute book talk.

Visit a Snow Village! Dec. 3-17 - A miniature-scale Snow Village is on display in the Spruth Room in conjunction with the celebration of “It’s a Wonderful Life in Lake Bluff!” The decorative village consists of a number of charming houses and shops set along a boulevard full of activity.

The Many Faces of Christmas, 7 p.m., Dec. 5 - celebrate the holidays with beautiful art depicting the Christmas Story through the centuries created by painters, sculptors, architects, weavers and goldsmiths. Claire Crossings shares carefully selected color slides illustrating the Christmas Story as well as scenes of holiday activities such as baking, gathering with friend and going to church.

Violinist in Concert, 2:30 p.m., Dec. 11 - Concert violinist Oliver Colbentson has traveled the world performing classical music in more than 1200 concerts and broadcasting in over 29 countries. Jimin Yun who played with the Chicago Oratorio Concert Choir for 11 years accompanies Mr. Colbentson on the piano. Registration required.

Encore! Lake Bluff Middle School Chorus, 2:30 p.m., Dec. 13 - Encore! under the direction of Ann Cvitkovic serenades library visitors with a holiday concert. This lively performance will fill the entire library with songs of joy.

Wool Gatherers, 7 p.m., Dec. 19 - Our circle of needle artists gets together to share stories, solve problems and to work on our current projects. Wool Gatherers is open to all skill levels and registration is not required. All types of needle arts are welcome.

Children:

Winter Reading Club: Earn yourself a reading badge this winter. Grades three to eight can earn their badge by reading only five books on a theme. Grades one-two can earn their badges by reading only ten books. The program is designed for independent readers in grades one through eight and runs Oct. 1-May 5.

Drop-In Holiday Crafts for children through eighth grade until Christmas - Drop in and make a different craft each week. Crafts will be available each week while supplies last. We will have all the materials you will need to make an ornament, a special gift for a family member and a household decoration. Preschoolers will need a caregiver’s assistance.

Holiday Storytime with the Library elf, 10 a.m.-noon, Dec. 3 - Stop in the children’s department and listen to holiday stories read by our own library elf. Crafts and treats will be available as well.

Afternoon Movie & Popcorn, 2 .m., Dec. 21 - Children can join us for an afternoon movie and popcorn. The movie will be “Cars 2” and is rated G. Children under 8 years old will need a caregiver in attendance.

New Year’s Craft, Dec. 26-29 - Children can get the new year off to a fun start with a “Happy New Year” craft project. Children can drop in and make this colorful craft.

Preschool Storytime - Tuesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 21. We will have stories, songs and crafts for young children: 2 year olds, 11:15 - 11:35 a.m. for one child and one adult; 3-5 year olds, 10:30 - 11a.m. For children without adult.

Parent/Child Reading Club - Boys and girls in grades four-six can bring a parent to our reading group that meets once a month to discuss a different book: The Castle in the Attic, 7:30 p.m., Jan. 23; Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 27.

Valentine Workshop, Feb. 5-10. Drop in and express your creativity by making your own Valentine. Supplies provided. Open to children through grade eight.

Leap Year Frog Craft, Feb. 26-29. Commemorate by dropping in and making a frog craft.

Musical Family Fun with Super Stolie, 11 a.m., Feb. 25 - Musical show, snow, songs, freeze dance, interactive and fun for the season.

Knitting With Eliza, 4:30 p.m., Jan. 24-Feb. 28 - Children ages 9, 20 and 11 can join for this relaxed kntting group. Beginners are welcome. Bring any projects you are working on. First-time participants will be supplied with materials.

Winter Reading Club (runs until May 5) Sign up today. Earn badges for reading. Visit the children’s department for more details.

Teens:

Teen Blog: Join us at the teen blog; get the latest information and goings on, share opinions on books, games, movies and more.

Vote For Your Favorite Teen Books of 2011 - During the month of December, teens can vote for their favorite books published in 2011. Pick up a form at the children’s or circulation desk. Results will be posted after the first of the year. A random drawing will be held from all entries for a $25 gift card.

Knitting with Eliza, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 5 and Dec. 26, Feb. 6 and Feb. 27 - Teens, if you have ever had an interest in knitting, this is the group for you. Beginners are welcome in this relaxed, informal group.

Manga and Anime Clu, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, Dec. 12, Jan. 2, and Jan. 23 - Join us for a great time as we dive into the world of manga and anime. We’ll check out some new favorites as well as some old classics, have lively discussions about the topics you love most and even try some Japanese cuisine. Check back at the library or online for more details.

Teen Advisory Board - 7:30 p.m., Dec. 15, Jan. 19 and Feb. 16. Join us once a month: meet new friends, earn volunteer hours, find out what’s new at the library.

Cupcake Decorating, 2 p.m., Dec. 18. Teens can join professional baker Nancy Smithson for an afternoon of cupcake decorating.

Scrapbooking With Ms. Rachel, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, Dec. 19, Jan. 9, Feb. 13. Bring your own pictures and memorabilia, Ms. Rachel will supply everything you need for a variety of scrapbooking projects.

Teen Movie, 2 p.m., Dec. 28 - Teens can join us for an afternoon movie and popcorn. The popular movie, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” will be shown and is rated PG-13.

Finals Study Night At the Library, 6-9 p.m., Jan. 8. The lower level of the library will be reserved exclusively for high school students to study for their finals. We will have coffee and snacks and quiet study time. Bring your Lake Forest high school ID.

Teen Book Discussion, 7:30 p.m., Jan. 30 - Teens can join us to discuss “The Compound,” by S.A. Bodeen. Two other books will be chosen by the group at the following TAB meeting. Join this informal discussion group.

Do You Think Like a Millionaire?, 11 a.m., Feb. 11 - Are you getting ready to graduate from High School? Then this program is for you! Susan Beacham CEO of Money Savvy Generation will be here to show you how to use your money wisely. She will talk about wise choices and how to set goals so your money works for you. Parents are welcome to join their teens for this special program. Registration is required.

Open Lands

Lake Bluff

Lake Bluff Open Lands is a not-for-profit organization committed to the protection, preservation, restoration and management of open spaces and natural areas in Lake Bluff.

Lake Forest

Lake Forest Open Lands is dedicated to conserving our natural environment through land acquisition, habitat restoration, environmental education and conservation advocacy. Visit www.LFOLA.org to register or call (847) 234-3880, ext. 21.

Volunteer Work Day, 9 a.m.-noon, Dec. 3 at West Skokie Nature Preserve, (off Westleigh Rd., one-quarter mile east of Waukegan Rd.) Please wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Work gloves and any tools needed will be supplied. Appropriate for families and young adults.

Parks/Recreation

Lake Bluff Park District:

Lake Bluff Park District offers new classes as well as returning favorites on www.lakebluffparks.org. The Lake Bluff Park District is at 355 W. Washington Ave., Lake Bluff. Call (847) 234-4150.

Weight Watchers meetings are held promptly at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. Weigh-ins begin at 6:30 p.m.

Lake Forest Parks and Recreation:

Sign up for Lake Forest Dance Academy. We offer a variety of programs for 1-year-old through seniors. Ballet, Jazz, Pointe, Modern, Preschool, Tap and Musical Theater. Don’t miss out on all the fun. Contact Sandy Ragsdale, (847) 810-3948.

The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm offers: Children’s classes and camps; Exhibits featuring many live animals open to the public; Outreach programs; Guided tours and nature hikes; Birthday Parties; Internationally renowned wildlife exhibits including indoor and outdoor displays and trails. Stop by and visit the Wildlife Discovery Center today. Visit www.cityoflakeforest.com.

Support

Al Anon is a support group for family members and friends of those who abuse alcohol or drugs. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. Monday evenings at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 400 E. Westminster, Lake Forest.

Al Anon is an anonymous fellowship of family and friends whose lives have been affected by someone else’s abuse of alcohol or drugs. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. every Monday at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Rd. Call (847) 680-4640 for further information.

Religion

St. Patrick Church, 950 W. Everett Rd., Lake Forest offers the following programs/events. For information or to register, call Jo Ann Bednar, Communications Director, at (847) 234-1401, ext. 208 or www.stpatrick-lakeforest.org :

Career Speed Networking takes place the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 a.m. at the Parish Center of St. Patrick Church, 950 W. Everett, Lake Forest. Participants meet with professionals to learn about job prospects and contacts. The event is free.

Hope and Healing Grief Support Group meets from 7-8:15 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at St. Patrick Church Community Room, 950 W. Everett, Lake Forest. Author and Certified Peace Coach Maria Malin moderates the group.

St. Patrick Church Thursday Morning Scripture Study meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m. thru May 2012 in the Parish Center, 950 W. Everett, Lake Forest.

High School Teens and Junior High School youth are invited to participate in St. Patrick Church Youth programs. The year round program features retreats, service projects and social activities. For information contact Katie Prejean, Coordinator of Youth Ministry at (847) 234-1401, ext. 203.

Seniors

Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Senior Center offers a variety of programs. All events require a reservation by calling (847) 234-2209:

Classes:

Lunch & Learn Workshops, noon-2 p.m., Fridays, at Heller Nature Center; $15. Register at (847) 234-2209.

Home Alone discussion group meets at 2 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month.

Poker, Mah Jongg, Tai Chi, Watercolors, Bridge and Current Events are continuing.

Posit Science Brain Fitness program - eight-week program, start anytime. Monday-Friday

Knitting with Caryl Sclove, 1 p.m., Mondays for LF-LB Center members

Volunteer

Friends of Mothers Trust Foundation is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who want to make a difference to children in need. Our volunteers assist with fundraising events, service meetings, public relations, membership and development. Our newest group, Mothers Trust Teens, is also in need of teens who would like to help others and make a difference in the lives of children. Visit www.motherstrustfoundation.org to volunteer, to make a donation, or for information about upcoming events. Call the MTF office at (847) 482-9189, or e-mail motherstrust@motherstrustfoundation.org.

Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Community Associates of the Art Institute are looking for volunteers to present art to primary school children, grades K-five in North Chicago schools. Volunteers do not need to be artists, just enthusiastic about art. Time commitment is minimal, once a month during school year for 45-minute visits, which volunteers individually arrange with teachers. Art posters, background info on artists, craft suggestions and art supplies are provided. Call Mary Summers at (847) 295-7419.

LEAD is a community-based organization dedicated to the role that adults play in the promotion of healthy families and the prevention of alcohol, tobacco and other drug and risky behavior by youth. LEAD is looking for adult and youth volunteers to help with programs and the office at the Gorton Community Center. For information, call Betty Frank-Bailey at (847) 295-9075.