When school is out, the fun is in at Gorton Center. On Monday, Oct. 13, and again on Friday, Nov. 7, children ages 4-11 are invited to join award-winning music educator Bill Vaananen - affectionately known as “Mr. V.” - for “Mr. V’s Day Off,” part of the Gorton Drama Studio at Gorton Center.

Deerfield author Julia Shraybman will celebrate the release of her debut novel, “Lucky Number Six: A Psychological Thriller,” with a book signing at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Barnes & Noble in Northbrook.

Ten Catholic schools and two other suburban Christian schools, that recently were told they met the criteria for the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School Award, are celebrating the win despite the U.S. Department of Education ending the program.

For 25 years, the Child Life internship program at St. Alexius Women & Children’s Hospital in Hoffman Estates has been paving career paths in a service integral to most pediatric departments.

The Northbrook Park District’s Flea Market will be back this month with a new fall edition in the heart of downtown Northbrook.

Wheeling Township Elementary District 21 is seeking a new board member to replace Dagmara Kalinowski, who resigned to focus on professional and personal obligations.

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown Monday, Sept. 22, and suburban restaurants are serving up traditional favorites for the holiday. Also, former football star Rick Mirer is hosting a wine dinner at CityGate Grille in Naperville.

The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus launched the fourth round of its Electric Vehicle Readiness Program, gathering municipalities committed to enhancing EV adoption and infrastructure throughout the Chicago region.

Libertyville Rotary Sunrise teamed with Zengeler Cleaners for its annual “Coats for Vets” collection drive. This important event collects winter coats, jackets and other seasonal apparel that will be distributed to veterans throughout the northern Illinois area.

Mark your calendar for Oktoberfests in Libertyville, Arlington Heights, Elk Grove Village, Palatine and Highland Park; Tacos and Tequila Festival in Geneva; Naperville Irish Fest; Cantigny Car Show and more happening this week.