Pipefitters bring holiday cheer for Glenwood students
A group of students from Glenwood Academy received a bit of holiday cheer thanks to more than 350 apprentices of Pipefitters Local 597 at its Mokena facility.
The students enjoyed visits with Santa Claus – who delivered about eight to 10 presents to each, as well as a pizza party. The apprentices shopped for and wrapped hundreds of presents for the students.
Glenwood Academy is a private residential school in Glenwood that serves children whose homes are affected by violence, physical and emotional harm, poverty and educational neglect.
Recycling holiday lights through Jan. 30
A holiday lights recycling program is available through Jan. 30 at several area locations, thanks to a cooperative effort between State Rep. Bob Rita, D-Blue Island, and Calumet Township, Village of Midlothian, Oak Forest, Village of Calumet Park, City of Blue Island, Blue Island Park District and Village of Crestwood.
Lights can contain glass, plastic, lead and copper wiring, all of which require proper disposal. Unwanted and nonworking lights may be recycled, but broken bulbs should be removed before donating.
Oak Lawn, Flossmoor, Drop-off locations are Blue Island City Hall, 13051 Greenwood Ave.; Memorial Park, 12804 Highland Ave. in Blue Island; Midlothian Village Hall, 14801 Pulaski Rd.; Crestwood Village Hall, 13800 S. Cicero Ave.; Calumet Park Village Hall, 12409 S. Throop St.; Calumet Township Office, 2353 York St. in Blue Island; Calumet Township Community Center, 12633 Ashland Ave. in Calumet Park; and Oak Forest City Hall, 15440 S. Central Ave. Information is at 708-396-2822.
Oak Lawn teen publishes first novel
When Ashlynn Goldizen published her first novel, “Unwrapped” A Novel in Verse,” it was a dream come true.
The story, a spiritual one, explores the disconnection a teenager faces between Christmas and God as she struggles with personal relationships, ultimately using her faith to rediscover hope. It’s aimed at readers 13 and older.
Goldizen, a sophomore at Richards High School in Oak Lawn, started the book in February 2025 while reflecting on her thoughts about the holiday and what it meant for older children. She added Bible verses into the book and sought guidance from youth ministry leaders at Moraine Valley Church in Palos Heights, which she attends.
“I called it ‘Unwrapped’ because some gifts aren’t wrapped in paper. Some only reveal themselves when you finally unwrap your heart,” she shared via a news release.
She’s sold 15 copies of the book as of December and has a goal of selling 100 in a year. It’s available on Amazon.
Host sites sought for Flossmoor’s day of service
Community organizations, government agencies, local businesses and groups of neighbors are invited to host a service project as part of the Village of Flossmoor’s state-honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, which will take place Jan. 19.
The volunteer initiative, now in its 11th year, is organized by the Flossmoor Community Relations Commission.
Several organizations already have registered for this year’s event, but more are needed. Hosts think of a project and provide a site, and the commission provides volunteers to do the work. Sign up at www.flossmoor.org/506/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Day-of-Service.
Chili cook-off chefs needed for Frankfort event
Local restaurants and chili enthusiasts are welcome to join the First & Ice Winter Social Chili Cook-Off, set for noon to 2 p.m .Jan. 31 at Breidert Green in Frankfort.
Competitors in two categories – Restaurant Division (local restaurants, bars and professional food businesses) and Amateur Division (nonprofessionals) must register by Jan. 17.
Participation is free but space is limited. Sign up at www.frankfortil.org.
Competitors will serve samples to attendees and compete for top honors in each division. Attendees can vote for their favorites.
Chicago Festival of Bands celebrates National Polka Month in Orland Park
The International Polka Association recognizes National Polka Month with its 57th annual Chicago Festival of Bands from noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 18 at Elements by the Odyssey, 16235 LaGrand Road. in Orland Park.
Music will be performed by EZ Tones, Music Company, Tony Blazonczyk and New Phaze, IPA Tribute Band, and Kevin Altenburg and Friends.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Admission is $20 at the door. A cash bar and food for purchase will be available. Information is at www.ipapolkas.com.
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