BIG WEEK Februar y 8-15

All Area Chess Tournament

Saturday, Feb. 11, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., St. Mar y School, Riverside

This grade school chess game expo will be split into two divisions: grades K-3 and 4-8. Everyone will play ve rounds. The top 10 scorers in each division will receive trophies and medals; the best school team in each division will receive trophies A guardian must be present for any child 11 and under The rst round begins at 10 a.m. Register no later than Feb. 10. Sign-up info: https://www learningmeansfun.com/signup. Enter code SMR2.11.23. No admittance allowed with signs of illness. $58.25, 97 Herrick Road., Riverside

Rising Stars

Valentine’s Concer t

Saturday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., Unity Temple Restoration Foundation

A diverse and talented group of musicians share their talents: Yoshihiro Okuyama, Leandro Isaac Motta, Sava Velko , Leandro Isaac Motta, Jordan Hiley, Nicholas Reeves, Jesus Linarez, Gabriela Lara, Pedro Mendez, and Lidanys Graterol. 875 Lake St., Oak Park.

Art Exhibit: Alkebulan Shadows by Jason Dorsey

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2-4 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y

This por trait photography projec t of Indigenous African people from various countries challenges colonial imagery by restoring it with contemporar y, non-intrusive, non- exploitative photos. These images aim to enlighten and restore dignity back the black- circulated image. Equally ser ving as a celebration of Africa’s sprawling diversity, each photograph symbolizes the gradual re- emergence of cultural identity, restoration, and hope. Alkebulan is the oldest and the only word of Indigenous origin regarding the continent of Africa. This exhibit runs from Feb. 7 thru March 11, with a special reception on Feb. 11. Learn more at oppl.org/calendar.

834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Listing your event in the calendar

Wednesday Jour nal welcomes notices about events that Oak Park and River Forest community groups and businesses are planning. We’ ll work to get the word out if you let us know what’s happening by noon

Wednesday a week before your news needs to be in the newspaper

■ Send details to Wednesday Jour nal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 60302

■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Family Event: Hot Chocolate Making

Thursday, Feb. 9, 1-2 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y Winter’s here, and the time is right to star t getting cozy with cocoa. Kids and their grown-ups will assemble and decorate a gift-wor thy jar of hot chocolate mix, plus whip up their own gourmet cup of cocoa with lots of fun toppings. Please register each child attending to ensure adequate supplies. Best for grades K-5. Register now at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

Valentine Card Craf ternoon

Friday, Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y Drop in to create something beautiful to gift or keep for yourself! Best for kids in elementar y school Younger siblings may par ticipate with caregiver suppor t. Register now at oppl.org/calendar.

834 Lake St., Oak Park