Friday, February 16, 2024 | View in browser
Good Morning,
Check out this week's Parks & Recreation e-News, featuring information about Summer Jobs, Black History Month, special events, and more.
Evanston Dog Beach
The Evanston Dog Beach will officially begin the 2024 season on Friday, March 1. To use the facility, all current and new Dog Beach patrons must obtain a 2024 season pass. Learn more.
Robert Crown Indoor Walking Track
The indoor track at the Robert Crown Community Center will be closed this Saturday, Feb.17 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. due to the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program job fair.
Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre: “That Art Thing We Do”
 Join the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre for "Black History 24/7/365: That Art Thing We Do." This engaging conversation with Black Evanston artists will take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, located at 927 Noyes St.
The free event will feature a panel of four Black Evanston creatives who will take the stage and share in a conversation about their creative works and inspirations. Moderated by Laurice Bell of Shorefront Legacy Center, the panelists include visual artist Sam Onche, culinary artist Chef "Q" Ibraheem, playwright/director/educator Gloria Bond Clunie, and musician-composer Chris Greene.
The conversation will be followed by an Afterglow Party featuring wine and hors d’oeuvres in the 2nd-floor Art Gallery, where the works of artist and panelist Sam Onche, particularly the "Black In Color" exhibit, will be on display. Additionally, the Donovan Mixon Jazz Combo will perform jazz music to contribute to the ambiance.
This event is co-sponsored by the City of Evanston, Evanston Arts Council, Art Encounter, Evanston Arts Center, Evanston Made, and Evanston Rules.
Summer 2024 Program Guide
The online version of the Summer 2024 Program Guide is now available to view online. This digital-only issue provides a plethora of recreation programs, special events, and opportunities to stay active, healthy, and entertained this summer.
Parks & Recreation Special Events
The City's Parks and Recreation Department is providing a sneak peek into the upcoming special events. There is a curated a lineup that promises to deliver a variety of exciting experiences, from dazzling evenings to enriching activities. Be sure to mark your calendars and get ready to be part of these unforgettable moments.
Noyes Spoken Word Open Mic
Join us for Word Salad at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center on Friday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m.. Bring your poems, lyrics, memoirs, and novels. This free event welcomes all ages.
Owl Prowl
Now that the Super Bowl is over, we invite you to join us for a night hike in search of our local “superb owls”. During the hike, we will learn about the different species of owls that live in Evanston and explore various artifacts to understand how their specialized ears, eyes, feathers, and talons help them find food and survive the night. We will also practice identifying different owl sounds together. At the end of our hike, we will gather around the campfire to make s'mores. If you are bringing children, they must be accompanied by an enrolled adult. To register for this program, please call the Ecology Center at 847-448-8256 or register online.
Saturday Morning Family Theatre
The Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre is presenting two interactive short productions for families at the Ecology Center. The matinee performances include "You're Not Ugly, Duckling" and "Little Ned Riding Hood", and will be accompanied by popcorn and refreshments. After the shows, community crafts will be led by the Ecology Center staff. Children must be accompanied by an adult. To register for this program, please call the Ecology Center at 847-448-8256 or register online.
Legacy Parks: Honoring Black Evanston Trailblazers
In celebration of Black History Month, the City's Parks and Recreation Department invites you to explore five City parks, each proudly named after Black Evanstonians whose community contributions have left a lasting impact. For more information, click here.
Cooking Camps
In this interactive camp, aspiring young chefs will collaborate in cooking challenges that are inspired by their favorite cooking TV shows such as Street Food, Nailed It!, and other similar series. Participants will learn how to use various cooking equipment and techniques, experiment with flavor combinations, and prepare delicious recipes from scratch on a daily basis. This cooking adventure stimulates creativity and provides an incredibly fun and exciting experience for young chefs.
Futsal Camp
Our primary objective is to promote growth, prioritize individual attention, and provide dedicated care for your child's development both on and off the field. Our program emphasizes individually tailored approaches to learning, cultivating a positive, safe, and enjoyable environment. Participants gain fun and memorable experiences, enjoying freestyle sessions and exposure to diverse cultures in a meticulously organized camp that embodies Beyond Soccer philosophy and Brazilian flair.
Summer Camp Jobs
As summer approaches, the Parks & Recreation Department is encouraging interested individuals to apply now for a range of seasonal employment opportunities. Applications are available online at: https://bit.ly/evanstonjobs
Brazilian Soccer Camp
This program is focused on learning, having fun, and building a great community together while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Participants will be able to enjoy freestyle sessions and cultural exposure in a meticulously organized camp rooted in Beyond Soccer philosophy and Brazilian flair. We aim to provide a fun and memorable experience for all participants.
Sit and Fit Blood Flow
Join our midday workout from the comfort of your own chair! Learn easy exercises to keep your blood flowing. Register now!
Candle Making Class
Create your own candle! Perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Don't miss out on our Winter season event. Reserve your spot before February 21st.
Tiempo Juntos
Este programa de juego abierto es perfecto para niños desde el nacimiento hasta los 5 años con un padre o cuidador. Nuestros espacios están llenos de equipos de escalada, bloques, colchonetas suaves, rompecabezas y un rincón para leer. Time Together es el lugar perfecto para llevar a los niños en edad preescolar en los días sin clases y para jugar con los más pequeños mientras los hermanos mayores están en la escuela. Aprende más.
Black History Month Celebration
February is Black History Month, a time to honor the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Join us to celebrate and recognize the rich cultural heritage, triumphs, and adversities that are a part of our country's history. This event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 24, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center!
Wild Weekends: Raptors
Join us at the Ecology Center for an exciting presentation on Raptors, which are birds of prey commonly found in Evanston. We have teamed up with Wings and Talons, a local organization dedicated to educating people about raptor conservation. You will have an opportunity to meet and learn about these amazing birds while discovering how we can all take steps to protect them. The event starts with an introductory activity at 6:30 p.m., and the live animal presentation begins at 7 p.m. Please note that children must be accompanied by an enrolled adult. To register for this program, please call the Ecology Center at 847-448-8256 or register online.
Drop-in Pickleball
Please visit us at the Levy Senior Center every Monday and Wednesday between Noon and 3 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 pm to 3 pm to enjoy drop-in pickleball!
- $5 per person. Please pay at the front desk before playing.
- Three lined pickleball courts are available
- Nets and balls will be provided
- Players must provide paddles
Players are responsible for organizing games and being respectful of court time. All skill levels are welcome.
Fleetwood Open Gym Schedule
The Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center has implemented a new ‘open gym’ schedule. Play basketball and pickleball!
Arboretum Egg Hunt
Join us for a fun-filled day of springtime activities at the annual Arboretum Egg Hunt. Located in the beautiful landscapes of Eggleston Park, this family-friendly event promises an exciting adventure for both kids and adults.
Be prepared to embark on a thrilling hunt through the park's winding paths and vibrant gardens, searching for hidden treasures. Children will eagerly scour the foliage in search of colorful eggs nestled amongst the greenery.
But the excitement doesn't end there! After the egg hunt, families can gather for a variety of festive activities and entertainment. From face painting to arts and crafts stations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And don't forget to take some photos with our friendly mascot, who will be wandering around to spread joy and cheer.
Thrive with Pride Café: Combatting Loneliness & Increasing Intimacy
How do we connect and build meaningful relationships in the post-COVID world? This workshop with Jacqueline Boyd of ‘The Care Plan’ will provide insights on shaping your social world. In particular, some strategies may be finding and getting to know new people as well as developing intimacy in your life. Increasing intimacy for you may mean dating, a more healthy touch in your life, emotional intimacy, or self-intimacy, and we'll be covering all these areas together. We benefit from close relationships as we grow older and look forward to discussing these critical issues together.
Tuesday, Feb. 27
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 420 827 2855
Bouquet Bar
Even though it's cold out, we're thinking about spring! For those 21 years and over, we're hosting a Bouquet Bar on Friday, March 29, at 6 p.m. The registration cost covers a glass of wine and all materials needed to create your blooming bouquet. Pre-registration is required.
February Levy Finance Series
The topic for February is "The Four Pillars of New Retirement," which will provide an in-depth look at health, family, purpose, and finances. Attendees will be empowered to think through their circumstances, goals, and challenges so that they can take action today that impacts their quality of life in retirement.
This seminar is sponsored and led by Neil Gardner of Edward Jones Financial in Skokie and is offered via Zoom. To register, please call the Levy Senior Center at 847-448-8250.
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Fee: Free, registration required
Robert Crown Flea Market is Now Accepting Vendor Sign-Ups
Do you have a basement, attic space, or trunk filled with items you want to rehome? The Robert Crown Community Center welcomes back its beloved flea market in the new Crown building for the first time. Table spaces are available for $40 each and must be reserved in advance. Please register online at cityofevanston.org/register.
Jamming Jean Concert
Derrick Procell is a harmonica player who is a soulful singer with a baritone voice and a two-fisted piano player who drives the rhythm home. Together with his solid band, they dig deep into soul and blues.
The concert is free and open to the public on Friday, March 22, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Maple Room at the Levy Senior Center.
Hecky’s Barbecue will be on-site with the fare for cash purchases. Grab dinner from this Evanston institution, and enjoy while you tap into the tunes. A selection of wine and beer will also be available from the cash bar.
Mason Park Expansion and Church/Dodge Transportation Improvements
Join the City of Evanston in planning for the Mason Park Expansion and Church-Dodge Transportation Improvements project. This project is focused on expanding open space opportunities and improving vehicular, biking, and walking connections for the neighborhoods surrounding the Mason Park and Church-Dodge areas. Your feedback is a very important part of this community planning process – please take a 10-minute poll before March 15th at the link below:
https://helloinput.org/mason-park-expansion
Unleash Your Talents: Parks & Rec Invites You to Share Skills and Teach Classes
Our Parks & Recreation facilities invite individuals from diverse backgrounds to showcase their incredible talents. If you're a budding artist, fitness guru, cooking maestro, or tech wizard - we want you to share your unique talents with our vibrant community.
Join us in creating a tapestry of skills at our Parks & Recreation Centers. You can share your love for Music and Performing Arts, Visual Arts and Crafts, Fitness and Wellness, Culinary Delights, or Technology and Innovation.
We welcome all creative proposals and ideas that are not listed. Let's transform our community spaces into lively hubs of learning and fun. Your passion could be the spark that ignites new hobbies and friendships!
Submit your program proposal today and bring your unique talents and skills to our community.
Dive into Community Engagement: Attend Parks and Recreation Community Meetings
Dive into community engagement! Attend our Parks and Recreation Committees and Board Meetings to share your ideas and shape the future of our recreational activities. Mark your calendar, participate, and together, build a stronger community.
Accessibility for all
The City of Evanston is committed to promoting a citywide culture of accessibility and inclusivity. To request an accommodation for a program, service, or activity, please call 847-866-2919 to make an ADA service request or complete a request form online.
Facility Locations and Phone Numbers
Chandler-Newberger Community Center: 847-448-8252
Levy Senior Center: 847-448-8250
Robert Crown Community Center: 847-448-8258
Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center: 847-448-8254
Ecology Center: 847-448-8256
Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,
The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team
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