Puppy Pals to perform at library

Families are invited to check out the Puppy Pals stunt dog show, which returns at 2 p.m July 8 to the Orland Park Public Library.

The program features high-energy tricks, comedy and adorable canines. It’s free and no registration is needed, although parents and adult caregivers should stay with children.

Entertainer Wesley Williams created the show, which features adopted and rescued dogs performing stunts and skits. The group was featured on “America’s Got Talent.”

Information is at 708-428-5100 or orlandparklibrary.org.

HHH Ranch seeks donations for new tractor, trailer, truck

A fundraising campaign has begun for a new tractor, truck and trailer needed at HHH Ranch, a sanctuary that works to heal both animals and people.

“Our beloved pick-up truck, affectionately named ‘Betty White,’ has served us well but is holding on by a thread, with more than 309,000 miles on it, ranch founder Christine Doran shared in a news release. “All 17 rescues we have done this year have been from us borrowing a truck – that is not sustainable when we are called in emergent situations.”

The ranch offers therapeutic programs for people of all abilities to connect with rescued animals, promoting personal growth and healing.

The Bolger Foundation has offered to match the first $25,000 raised to buy a new tractor. Donations may be sent via www.hhhrachil.org or by sending a check to HHH Ranch, 14101 W. Bruns Road, Manhattan, IL 60442.

Crete Woman’s Club’s garden walk set

Explore five beautiful gardens during the Crete Woman’s Club’s 2025 garden walk, A Day in the Country, set for 3 to 7 p.m. July 10 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 11.

Tickets, which cost $20, may be bought on the day of the walk at the Crete Public Library, 1177 Main St. Buy in advance by calling 708-672-9438.

The library also has a butterfly garden and community garden on display, as well as short-term parking. A plant swap is set for July 11 on a bring-one, get-one model for up to five plants. Donated plants can be taken to the library starting July 7.

A map with the gardens is provided with a ticket. Details are www.cretewomansclub.net.

Area students win scholarships

The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has named the winners of scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities, and local students earned the honor as well as awards between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Area students include Garrin Donovan, of Frankfort, Lincoln-Way East, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology; Caleb Lee, of Frankfort, Lincoln-Way East, Hillsdale College; Levi Sliekers, of Lansing, Illiana Christian, Calvin University; Conor Meehan, of Mokena, Lincoln-Way Central, University of Southern California; Madeline Olson, of Orland Park, Chicago Christian, Hillsdale College; and Benjamin Whitney, of Palos Heights, Alan B. Shepherd, Purdue University.

Community takes CPR/AED training

Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller recently hosted a CPR/AED training session at the Country Club Hills Fire Department’s Fire Station No. 2 as part of National CPR and AED Awareness Week.

It was a collaborative effort with Country Club Hills Fire Department personnel, as well as Mayor James Ford and Alderman Ricardo Spivey.

The training, for community members, focused on the “hands-only” CPR technique, which can double or even triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, according to a news release. Attendees also learned how to use an AED device and how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on children and adults.

For information on the next community event, email Samuel.Stogsdille@cookcountyil.ogov or call 773-848-0501.

Circus coming to Chicago Ridge Mall

Do Portugal Circus performs under a big top July 11 to 27 at Chicago Ridge Mall, 444 Ridgeland Ave., Chicago Ridge.

It’s a family-friendly circus that has operated for five generations that offers aerialists, motorcyclists, magic, acrobats and a funny clown, as well as other acts. A variety of show times will be available. Tickets will be sold at DoPortugalCircus.com.

Pets parade entries sought

The annual pet parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. July 11 at Smith Village, 2320 W. 113th Place in Chicago. Most entrants are dogs and cats, but other species also are welcome. Participants should register by July 7. Forms are available at bmurphy@smithseniorliving.org or 773-474-7316 or at the facility’s reception desk.

Announcers will share fun facts about each pet and its owner as they walk the runway. Audience applause will determine the top three pets, who will receive prizes. Costumes are not required but are encouraged.

Send news to communitynews@southtownstar.com.