Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds in Safe House. (PHOTO SUPPLIED)

Movie Reviews
By Bernie Jablonski

For a Denzel Washington Non-Event Movie (unlike, say, Philadelphia or American Gangster, or Malcolm X), Safe House isn’t too bad. It’s more like something from the Action Movie Buoyed up by The Presence of Denzel Washington Movie. If you liked Unstoppable, for instance, and thought that it would have been nothing special without Washington, then you will probably enjoy this movie. It keeps one comfortable and occupied between the flood of Oscar-bait movies and the announcement of the Oscars themselves, in that twilight zone where largely mediocre movies, movies the studios don’t have much faith in, are marketed heavily and then released. (Man on a Ledge, anyone? Red Tails?)

One funny thing that I marveled at during the movie is the uncanny resemblance Ryan Reynolds has to Chris Pine.  Pine, who played Captain Kirk in Star Trek, was supposedly considered for Reynolds’ role. Pine also costarred with Denzel Washington in Unstoppable. Is what we once called the juvenile lead becoming so interchangeable? Not that these guys aren’t good actors- I hope they have interesting careers. I’m just glad I’m past the whole Chris Pine-Ryan Reynolds-Ryan Gosling triangle of confusion I was going through. Still working on the Seth Rogan-Jason  Segel-Jonah Hill thing.

There are certainly things to hold your attention in this movie. I liked the cinematography- it had a noir-ish quality that in some of the darker scenes reminded me of Drive (that’s a good thing). I’m wondering if this burned out, saturated color scheme is going to be seen in future moody crime/suspense movies. With the violence and danger alive here, I wouldn’t mind the occasional absolutely clear wide-angle shot scenes (where the camera lens puts everything in the frame in sharp focus, so that the detail is richer) to emphasize the urgency of the situation.

The performances are first-rate. Reynolds plays Matt Weston, a low-level CIA operative who is the “housekeeper” at a “hotel” (that, of course, would be the titular safehouse). Naturally, he wants to be in the field (who doesn’t?). Of course, his friend/mentor at Langley (Brendan Gleeson, that fine Irish actor) tentatively says that he’ll talk to someone about it. Matt then kisses his fabulous European beauty of a girlfriend (of course), and goes to work at the safehouse, where he is surrounded by blank walls and fluorescent lights and banks of telephones. He feels so bored and insignificant, he sits in the hall and bounces the ball off it, catches it, and repeats the process. He evidently saw the last shot of The Great Escape.

Outside, Cape Town teems around his isolated pocket. There are scenes filmed in both Cape Town and Johannesburg, and to tell you the truth, living conditions haven’t improved that much since District 9. Tobin Frost, a character we’re rather wary about, makes a deal with some other guy, and things erupt into violence, leading to a getting-lost-in the-crowd chase. He eludes his pursuers, but as he is about to be caught, turns himself in to the American embassy. When the embassy people realize this is Tobin Frost, everyone has that stunned look on his or her faces, and things immediately go into action to “secure” him.

You see, Frost used to work for the CIA, but bolted and became a mercenary on the spy scene, selling information to the highest bidder. The man, through his many years with the CIA, has a deep understanding of the organization works. Matt, in the meantime, is alerted by his superiors that he is going to be receiving a “guest,” and jumps into action to receive Frost. He, like everyone else, also has a silent, stunned look on his face when the obligatory black sack is taken off Frost’s face and Matt (somehow) recognizes him. Matt, excited about proving himself, is eager to contribute to the operation but finds himself being thanked and asked to stand aside and let the other operatives do their work. Watching what happens next through an observing window, Reynolds really looks like a little kid who wants to be a soldier when he grows up.

So that’s what waterboarding looks like! And this is not supposed to be torture? Maybe the scene of the process being administered to Frost is meant to evoke some empathy with him. Call me weird, but I actually had empathy towards the interrogator/torturer, only because he is played by one of my favorite character actors, Robert Patrick, who here has a Jack Cassidy beard, making him look grandfatherly. That’s probably it. (I like Patrick because even though he plays the same kind of hard-nosed soldier, or cop, or spy, or android, he brings different nuances to every part. I even like him when he’s on the side of the angels- but The X-Files is the only example I have of that.) 

As you would imagine, with each attempt to get information through the waterboarding, Frost catches his breath and pretty much asks for more. The torture only stops when the house is invaded on all sides, and, as the plot requires, Matt grabs Frost, commandeers a car, and escapes with his “package” in an undeniably exciting car chase. He calls the CIA in Langley, where he is told to get to another safehouse. I will admit, the last two-thirds of the movie are something of a twist on The Defiant Ones.

Washington and Reynolds have a good rapport with each other, with Frost trying to distract Matt, but at times becoming almost a friend/father figure. Reynolds gets the sense of inner conflict as Frost tells him things the CIA are likely to do to him once he returns to them. What’s interesting is the coded phrase Frost says the Company uses when someone is deemed expendable. I heard the same speech in Knight and Day. Hmmm. If this dialogue appears in two movies, then it’s got to be true, right?

Vera Farmiga is on hand, playing, as she did in Source Code, the humorless near-automaton  of an authority figure, here with the CIA. I think she’s a great actress, but I miss that warm, sometimes breezy sexiness she had in the great Up in the Air, or even in the otherwise excreable Orphan. As her superior, Sam Shepard is all snarly and direct, similar to, but without the depth of Chris Cooper in Breach. (I feel so bad about Shepard and Jessica Lange breaking up after their long relationship. Maybe American Horror Story freaked him out too much, too.)

I am a big Law & Order fan, so I get a bit picky when it comes to realism in genre movies. (I have a friend who, when her family watches Law & Order, her father, a lawyer, shouts “Objection!” whenever something in the show does not reflect reality as we know it. I know the show is not naturalistic.) If I start questioning the “realism” of a movie while I’m watching it, it’s usually not a very good movie. However, if I watch a movie and don’t start to find faults until I get home, I consider it at least acceptable. Safe House is acceptable. At one point, Reynolds is pursuing Washington through a crowd, and we see shots of Washington’s back as he walks quickly. As soon as Reynolds catches up with him, I was praying to the good Lord above not to see the man turn around and be someone else. The movie did not choose the cliché here. However, the film showed us that once again, if you are thrown through a closed window, you will not only not cut yourself with numerous shards of glass, but you will hit the ground after falling several stories and sustain the same injuries as if you had just fallen out of bed.

Sorry to say that I’ve never seen Training Day, where Denzel Washington played a bad cop. He is such a versatile actor, and he plays a convincing “evil” but not completely unsympathetic character. George Clooney certainly proved that his characters can harbor evil in The Ides of March, and I’m sure that as these gentlemen age, we’ll be treated to an array of nuanced characters.

Bernie Jablonski teaches Mass Media and Film Study in the Fine Arts Department at Marian Catholic High School.

A deer recently investigated the land north of 26th Street. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—February 13, 2012. February is Black History Month -- a time dedicated to celebrating and remembering the history, accomplishments, and triumphs of black American culture. Check out the ‘Black History Month Events’ section to see how the south suburbs are marking this momentous occasion.

We’re also celebrating Valentine’s Day on Tuesday, February 14. It is said that in the United States, 64 percent of men do not make plans in advance for a romantic Valentine's Day with their sweethearts. If you’re one of the 64 percent and still wondering what to do, why not take your sweetheart to the Park Forest House Museum on Saturday and see how Valentine’s Day was celebrated in the 1950s? Information about the House Museum can be found in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section below.

Finally, the Sertoma Centre’s Good As New Thrift Store, 4331 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, is looking for donations of furniture and other household items in good condition. Learn how you can make a donation or arrange for the pick-up of large furniture items in the ‘This & That’ section below.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to RJPiserLPH@aol.com with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.

Village of Park Forest

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Commissions will meet the week of February 13:

• Tuesday, February 14 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
• Tuesday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
• Thursday, February 16 at 6 p.m. – Housing Authority

The meetings will take place at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Black History Month Events

Commission on Human Relations & Village of Park Forest

“From Slavery to the White House” – Saturday, February 25

The Commission on Human Relations and Village of Park Forest will present a Black History Money Program on Saturday, February 25 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest. Join us as the DuSable Museum brings a theatrical performance entitled “From Slavery to the White House.’ The event is free and open to the public.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Harlem Renaissance Documentary Film Encore Presentation – Tuesday, February 14

The Park Forest Library’s Fine Art Lovers will meet on Tuesday, February 14 at 7 p.m. to celebrate Black History Month with a special encore presentation of the documentary film on the Harlem Renaissance. This program is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-748-3731.

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park

‘‘Lift Every Voice’ – An Operatic Celebration of Black History Month – Sunday, February 19

On Sunday, February 19 at 4 p.m., celebrate Black History Month with a review of music drawn from the rich heritage of the Black experience. Two of Chicagoland's greatest operatic stars, soprano Kimberly Jones and tenor Cornelius Johnson, will perform music from ‘Porgy and Bess,’ ‘Ragtime,’ ‘Showboat,’ and more. Viennese pastries and coffee will be offered during this intimate performance on The Center’s stage. Tickets are $37. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

‘African Expressions’ Art and Artifacts of Africa – Through March 18

‘African Expressions,’ an exhibit featuring arts and artifacts of Africa, will run through March 18. The exhibit will feature Neolithic artifacts through 20th century sculpture, metal work, figurative wood sculpture and prestige items. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.

Green Events

Sauk Calumet Group of the Illinois Sierra Club, Palos Park

Monthly Meeting – Monday, February 13

The Sauk Calumet Group of the Illinois Sierra Club will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, February 13 at 7:10 p.m. at the Frankfort Public Library, 21119 Pfeiffer Road. Dr. Jeff Walk will show slides of Illinois birds and discuss changes in Illinois bird populations and habitats in the past century. Walk is the Director of Science of the Illinois Nature Conservancy and a Board member of Illinois Audubon Society. Sierra Club meetings are free and open to the public. People interested in enjoying outdoor activities, preserving the environment, and protecting the world in which we live, are encouraged to attend. For additional information, contact Lois Lauer, Program Co-chair at 708-923-1550.

Village of Park Forest

Village of Park Forest Sustainability Plan

In April of this year, the Village of Park Forest was selected by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to participate in a local technical assistance program for the purpose of creating a Sustainability Plan. CMAP received a three-year $4.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to implement their adopted regional comprehensive plan, GO TO 2040. They are using this grant to fund around 60 local planning projects throughout the Chicago Metropolitan Area that will be instrumental in the implementation of the GO TO 2040 Plan. CMAP staff assistance is being provided to prepare the Sustainability Plan at no cost to the Village. A Sustainability Assessment has been developed over the past several months.

The next step in developing the Sustainability Plan is to develop strategies to help implement the Vision and Goals contained in the Sustainability Assessment. The public’s input is needed to ensure that this step in the Plan reflects the community’s desires for a sustainable community. To that end, all residents and Park Forest business owners are invited to participate in a public assessment tool. This survey will take should take no more than 15 minutes to complete, unless you have a lot of input to share. Please use the following link to access the assessment tool - http://parkforest.metroquest.com.

Share this information with your Park Forest friends and family. This assessment will be available through March 2012. If you have any questions about the Sustainability Plan process, please feel free to contact Hildy Kingma, AICP, Director of Economic Development and Planning. Hildy can be reached at hkingma@vopf.com or 708-283-5622.
To learn more about the Sustainability Plan Project, visit: http://www.villageofparkforest.com.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:

• Monday, February 13 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Monday, February 13 at 6 p.m. – E-Reader Demonstration - Drop in and learn about accessing these new digital library titles. We’ll also have a sampling of E-readers for you to look at, and an experienced user here to help you find your way through many of the features on each reader.
• Tuesday, February 14 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Tuesday, February 14 at 12 p.m. – ‘Time Out for the Holidays’ Book Club - Romance or Thriller or Mystery? Are you a huge fan of holiday and seasonal books? Join us for the third session of this seasonal book club. Stop in and check out one of our Holiday Picks, then come to our lunchtime holiday party to share with all. Registration required. Holiday attire encouraged. Next meeting April 10.
• Tuesday, February 14 at 7 p.m. – Pajama Storytime - For all story lovers Ages 2 thru 12. Drop-ins welcome.
• Wednesday, February 15 at 3:30 p.m. – Breaktime! Ages 6 & Up. Stop in to see what we’re doing — crafts, games, more.
• Thursday, February 16 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit - Ages 0 - 35 months with caregiver. Registration please.
• Thursday, February 16 at 10:30 a.m. – Potpourri of Lectures – “Does Veganism/Vegetarianism Have a Scientific Basis” by Perry Recker
• Thursday, February 16 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art - Ages 2-4 with caregiver. Registration please.
• Thursday, February 16 at 11:30 a.m. – E-Reader Demonstration - Drop in and learn about accessing these new digital library titles. We’ll also have a sampling of E-readers for you to look at, and an experienced user here to help you find your way through many of the features on each reader.
• Friday, February 17 at 4 p.m. – Teen Time - Ages 12 & up. Wii games, classic TV reruns, board game competitions, teen crafts.
• Saturday, February 18 at 1 p.m. – Kids Book Discussion ‘The Quilt’ by Gary Paulsen - Ages 8-15. We’ll talk a lot about what it might have been like to be a kid during WWII. Come even if you haven’t read the book yet!
• Saturday, February 18 at 2 p.m. – Sew-less Wall Hanging - Piece together a cute seasonal wall hanging with no machine sewing. Registration required by February 11. Ages 14 & Up.

For additional information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library's Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.

Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest

Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago – Tickets Now on Sale

The Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago will perform at Freedom Hall on Saturday, March 3 at 8 p.m. When the drum calls, the soul responds, Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago celebrates the human spirit through traditional and social African and African American dance. Muntu strives to create an atmosphere of communal participation while inspiring the audience to join in the celebration. The concert includes work from the Muntu’s repertoire of West African and contemporary dance, music and song designed to invigorate, enliven and celebrate the collective human spirit. Tickets are $24 and can be purchased online at www.freedomhall.org, call 708-747-0580 to purchase with credit card or in-person at the Box Office. Box office hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walkway, Park Forest

‘The Cocktail Hour’ by A. R. Gurney –Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for A.R. Gurney’s ‘The Cocktail Hour’ which will open on March 2 and run through March 18. This modern comedy of manners was described by the New York Times as “an examination of an over privileged family that fights domestic battles while downing drinks.” A successful playwright must endure an evening with his wealthy parents as he breaks the news to them that they are the subject of his new play. It’s another sparkling gem from one of America’s most prolific playwrights. Tickets are priced at $22 and $20. There is a $1 discount for students and seniors. For additional information, show times, or to purchase tickets, call 708- 481-3510 or visit www.ilthctr.org.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

A Fanfare for Broadway with "Glee" – RSVP by February 14

A Fanfare for Broadway with “Glee” will be held on Saturday, February 25 at Idlewild Country Club, 19201 Dixie Highway, Flossmoor. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and its education programs. The event will feature a delicious dinner, exciting entertainment and an exclusive silent auction. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. A cash bar will be available and complimentary table wine. Reservations: $125 per person and you must RSVP by February 14th. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-7774 or order online at https://secure.ticketsage.net.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

"Step Back into a 1950s Valentine's Day" - Exhibit Through February at 1950s House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard, is decorated throughout February with vintage valentines and decorations. One room represents a classroom in the first school, Forest Boulevard School, which was set up in a row of townhomes in 1949. In February, the classroom is decorated for a 1950s Valentine’s Day party with crepe paper candy baskets, and construction paper heart-shaped valentine “mailboxes” on each desk. Red honeycomb, puffy hearts and vintage valentines are on display throughout the house. The museum is open in February Wednesdays 11-2; Saturdays 10-3. Donation is Adults-$5; 12 & under free. The tour is free with the purchase of a Marshall Field's Park Forest Store brick at 1 for $15; 2 for $25. Convenient, free, street parking right outside the front door.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department

March Senior Trip - Chicago Flower & Garden Show at Navy Pier – Registration Deadline Monday, March 5

On Wednesday, March 14, you can experience the 2012 Chicago Flower and Garden show. This event will have over 25 garden displays keeping with the 2012 theme, “Hort Couture.” There will be over 100 vendors of gardening, landscaping and horticulture products and services, along with educational seminars, interactive gardening workshops, cooking demonstrations and more! You will also have time to explore Navy Pier’s wide variety of shops and the Stained Glass Windows Museum. Lunch is on your own, and there are plenty of restaurants to select from with food ranging from casual cuisine to fine dining. Coach bus will depart from Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, at 9 a.m. and return at approximately 4 p.m. Fee is $38 which includes round-trip coach bus and admission to the Flower Show.

Register in person at the Recreation & Parks Department, Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, or register over the phone with a credit card by calling 708-748-2005. Mention Code: 148580-1 when registering.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

‘African Expressions’ Art and Artifacts of Africa – Through March 18

‘African Expressions,’ an exhibit featuring arts and artifacts of Africa, will run through March 18. The exhibit will feature Neolithic artifacts through 20th century sculpture, metal work, figurative wood sculpture and prestige items. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.

Monkey Mind Art Studio, 3 W. Nebraska St., Frankfort

Youth Art Show – Through February 28

The Youth Art Show is now taking place in the Gallery through February 28. An artist reception will be held on Wednesday, February 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Love donations will be accepted for materials and reception costs. For Gallery Hours or additional information, call 815-464-8818.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights

‘Presence-Absence’ Exhibit – Through February 29

‘Presence-Absence,’ a two-person show featuring the paintings by Sergio Gomez and Mark Zlotkowski will run through Wednesday, February 29 at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery located at the Chicago Heights campus. The exhibit is intended to encourage its audience to a deeper understanding of their own visible and invisible experiences. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, and Thursday. Visits can also be made by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment for a visit, call 708-709-3636.

24th Annual Jazz Fest – Friday, February 17

Some of the nation’s top jazz artists will perform at PSC’s 24th Annual Jazz Fest to be held on Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the college auditorium. Featured musicians include Chicago trumpeter Orbert Davis, drummer Ernie Adams, and bassist Larry Gray, as well as New Orleans saxophonist Ed Petersen and PSC’s professor of music, Valerie Nicholson, on piano. Ticket prices are $15 for general admission. Students and senior citizens tickets are $10 each. Tickets are available in advance in the PSC Business Office Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased at the door on the evening of the concert. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-709-3500.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Park Forest Nurses Club

Monthly Meeting to be Held Thursday, February 16

The Park Forest Nurses Club will meet on Thursday, February 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 N. Orchard (corner of Lincoln Highway and Orchard Drive). “Rehabilitation Therapy” will be presented by Josh Feigl, Clinical Director of Flexeon Rehabilitation, Frankfort, IL. Josh is a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialists. All Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses, active or inactive, are invited to attend. For additional information call 708-481-8387 or visit www.pfnursesclub.org.

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park

Career Fair – Thursday, February 23

The Office of Career Services at GSU is sponsoring a career fair for people interested in employment and internship opportunities in education and related fields on Thursday, February 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Hall of Governors. Current students, alumni, and community members are invited to attend. Potential employers are also invited to register as participants. This is an opportunity to match job and internship positions with qualified personnel. This event is free and open to the public. For additional information or to register, call 708-235-3974.

CenterPoint Offers Four February Workshops on Starting Businesses in Illinois

CenterPoint at GSU is sponsoring ‘Starting a Business in Illinois’ workshops in February for Chicago Southland residents. The free two-hour workshops focus on personal, financial, and legal aspects of starting a business. Participants will learn what steps to take and what resources are available to assist new business owners succeed in today’s challenging economic climate. Workshops will be presented:

• Wednesday, February 15 at 6 p.m. at Richton Park Village Hall, 4455 W. Sauk Trail, Richton Park. Elliott Johnson, Regional Representative for GSU CenterPoint, will present the program.
• Wednesday, February 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Palos Heights Public Library, 12501 S. 71st St., Palos Heights. Dan McAllister, Regional Representative for GSU CenterPoint will present the program.
• Wednesday, February 22 at 9 a.m. at Kallsen Center in Tinley Park Village Hall, 16250 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park. Dan McAllister will present the program.
• Thursday, February 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Peotone Public Library, 515 N. First St., Peotone. Judi Mack, Regional Representative for GSU CenterPoint will present the program.

For additional information, call CenterPoint at 708-534-4927 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.

Reading Tutoring Available at GSU

GSU’s Graduate Program in Reading is sponsoring The Literacy Zone, a reading tutorial program for students in grades six through high school, on Tuesdays from January 24 through April 17 from 4:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This 12-week, one-to-one program brings students experiencing reading problems together with teachers who have the skills to help them. Students meet on the GSU campus with certified, experienced teachers enrolled in the Master of Arts Reading Program at GSU. Enrollment is limited and based on the number of tutors. Students will be accepted in the order in which the completed application and registration fee are received. There is a $70 registration fee. Snacks are provided at each session. Transportation is not provided. For additional information or to register, call 708-534-4122 or e-mail m-hession@govst.edu.

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday At GSU

The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights

Financial Aid Workshops – Saturday, February 18 and Wednesday, March 14

PSC is hosting two workshops to help students and parents file the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. The workshops are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 18 and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14 at PSC. The workshop is free and open to the public and advanced registration is requested by calling 708-709-3735, or by completing the registration form online at prairiestate.edu/finaid/workshops.html. Assistance is also available in Spanish. In order to complete the FAFSA, applicants will need to provide a completed or estimated 2011 tax information (parent’s and student’s 1040, 1040A, and/or 1040EZ federal tax applications and W-2 forms); the student’s driver’s license and social security number, the parent’s social security number and date of birth; records f untaxed income (welfare, social security, AFDC/ADC, or veterans benefits); current bank statements; current mortgage information for properties other than the family’s principal residence; records of businesses, farm (if not the family’s principal residence), and assets (stocks, bonds, and other investments); and a calculator. For more information on the FAFSA workshops at PSC, contact the college’s Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs at 708-709-3735.

21st Annual Strong Children – Strong Communities Conference – Registration Required

The 21st Annual Strong Children - Strong Communities conference will be held on Saturday, February 25, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Prairie State College, 202 S. Halsted Street, Chicago Heights. This conference is hosted by Good Shepherd Center, a non-profit agency serving individuals with disabilities and their families since 1963.  The Strong Children - Strong Communities conference is the largest bilingual conference in the Chicago area, featuring many individual workshops in both English and Spanish. Attendees can choose from a variety of individual workshops and hear the keynote speaker. The keynote speaker this year is Sue Black, Certified Bullying Prevention Trainer, Storyteller and Teaching Artist. Some of the workshops include - Playful Science: Rolling, Floating, Swinging and the Science Behind It, Power Struggles: Children vs. Adults, Nutrition, Disconnect to Reconnect: Helping Children Build Relationships at Home & School, Self-Defense, Creating a Special Bond-Siblings of Children with Developmental Disabilities, Early Math is more than Counting & Naming Shapes, Sign Language, Child Sexual Abuse Awareness and more. 

Registration is only $35 per person and includes a delicious box lunch. Lunch includes a choice of turkey, ham and turkey or veggie wraps, a drink and chips. Registration can be made on line at www.gscenter.org or by calling 708-335-0020 x 15. CEU and CPDU credits are available. Entertainment during lunch is provided by The Pink Panthers double dutch jumpers, Gold Medalists at Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics and 2010 Record Breakers Champs three years in a row. For more information on the Strong Children - Strong Communities conference please call Good Shepherd Center, 708-335-0020 x 15.

Opt In to Technology at PSC

You can bridge the gap between technology and a new you at PSC’s new Opt In program that consists of two computer training centers and free classes to teach basic technological skills. One location is at the Adult Training and outreach Center in Room A145 at PSC’s main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The other location is at the Matteson Area Center’s Computer Training Lab located at 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson. Hours for this location are Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. No matter what skill level you have or want to have, Opt In can help. Both computer labs and on-site tutors are free and open to the public. For additional information, call Lisa Zeigler at 708-709-3548 or e-mail lzeigler@prairiestate.edu.

Representative Anthony DeLuca, Chicago Heights

2012 General Assembly Scholarship Program – Applications Accepted Through March 15

Representative Anthony DeLuca is accepting applications for the 2012 General Assembly Scholarship program through Thursday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m. The scholarships are available o residents of the 80th District and will cover one year of tuition to the following universities:

• University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield)
• Chicago State University
• Eastern Illinois University
• Governors State University
• Illinois State University
• Northern Illinois University
• Northeastern Illinois University
• Southern Illinois University
• Western Illinois University

Eight recipients will receive one-year tuition, including summer semester. Fees, books, room and board are not covered. For additional information or to receive an application, call 708-672-0200 or visit www.housedem.state.il.us.

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leonard Robinson Family Services Center, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park. Participants will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet skills, résumé building skills, and more. Classes are open only to residents of Rich Township. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.

Healthy Living

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park

Free Psychotherapy Available from GSU’s Psychology Program

GSU’s Psychology Department is offering free psychotherapy services to members of the community. Conversations with a psychotherapist can help people cope with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transition problems. Confidential, one-on-one sessions are held with a GSU graduate student in psychology under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Individuals and couples, 18 years and older, are eligible. All sessions are conducted in Matteson, IL. The number of sessions is determined by the client’s needs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-235-2841.

Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Community Nutrition Network (CNN) site located inside the Rich Township's Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 11 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive (lower level)

Walk-In Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. For fee information or questions, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

Babies, teens and adult immunization and flu and pneumonia clinics will be held on Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details or to schedule an appointment, call 708-748-1118. The Health Department is a low cost provider for children and adult immunizations.

Blood Pressure Screening

A free Blood Pressure Clinic is held at the Park Forest Health Department Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Walk in or call ahead at 708-748-1118.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private programs available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.

This & That

Park Forest Baseball

Registration for 2012 Season – Now in Progress

Registration for Park Forest Baseball’s 2012 Season will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive from noon to 4 p.m. on and Saturday, March 3. There will also be registration held on Saturday, February 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Village Hall. Players are required to furnish a birth certificate. Fees vary by division, with a refundable participation fee of $25 and a fundraising requirement of selling one box of candy. A complete uniform is provided and teams play approximately 20 games during the season. Park Forest Baseball is part of the Greater South Suburban Baseball League, which is made up of Hazel Crest, Richton Park, Glenwood, University Park, OTYA, Matteson, Matteson-Olympia Fields, Chicago Heights, and South Chicago Heights. For additional information, call Alan or Mary Kay Joens at 708-503-1944 or e-mail frostysmygirl@sbcglobal.net or visit www.ParkForestBaseball.org.

Sertoma Centre, Inc., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip

Good As New Thrift Store – Seeking Donations

The Sertoma Centre’s Good As New Thrift Store, 4331 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, is seeking donations of gently used furniture and other household items in good condition. Proceeds from the sale of items at the Thrift Store go directly to supporting the 14 programs offered by Sertoma Centre. The store also serves as a training program for consumers at Sertoma to allow them to gain experience and transition into permanent retail jobs. The Thrift Store will pick up furniture donations within the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago free of charge. To make an arrangement to make a tax deductible donation of furniture to Good As News, call 708-481-5627. For additional information, to schedule a tour, volunteer or to make a donation, please call Amy Chmura at 708-730-6206 or e-mail achmura@sertomacentre.org.

Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest

Free Java Tuesdays

All are invited to Faith United Protestant Church for FREE Java Tuesdays. Visitors are asked to go to the Indianwood Boulevard side entrance between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. for free curbside service or to come and sit a bit. The event will continue each Tuesday as a form of outreach to the community throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call 708-747-1330.

Garden Club of Park Forest

"A Gardener's Cookbook"

To celebrate their 55th anniversary, the Park Forest Garden Club offers this cookbook filled with memories, gardening tips, flowery sayings and of course recipes. Makes a great gift. All proceeds go to the club and are used toward community contributions. Cookbooks are $9 and are available at the Park Forest Recreation and Parks Department, 350 Victory Drive. Call 708-748-2005 for additional information.

Rotary Club of Park Forest

The Rotary Club of Park Forest urges you to purchase a Golden Opportunities 2012 book to help support its youth activities. Books are only $25 and are now available for purchase at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Blvd.

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

"Operation Hero Miles" collects unused frequent flyer miles to help military families visit service members who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are recovering in military hospitals around the world. Airline partners are: AirTran, Alaska Airlines, American, Frontier, Midwest, Northwest, United, and US Airways. To donate airline miles, visit www.FisherHouse.org.

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

The Village of Park Forest is currently seeking the names and addresses of local military personnel currently serving overseas so that they may receive packaged donations from Park Forest residents. If you are a Park Forest resident and have a family member from your household currently deployed or if you have recently returned from a tour of duty, please call Judi Lancaster at 708-283-5608 or stop by the Manager's Office at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.

Greening of Park Forest

Sertoma Centre, Inc., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

If you have a used motorized wheelchair that you no longer need and would like to help a person with a disability, the Sertoma Centre will accept your donation. Contact Melanie Jones at 708-730-6206 for additional information.

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) is seeking cell phone donations for their ongoing fundraising program. Proceeds from the collection fund the critical programs and services provided to families who experience domestic violence. All victim services are provided free of charge and are available in English and Spanish. Cell phone collection sites currently include:

• SSFS Administrative Office, 18139 Harwood, Homewood, IL
• Bergstein's NY Deli, 200 Dixie Highway, Chicago Heights, IL
• Doyle Designed Salon, 2630 Flossmoor Rd., Flossmoor, IL

All donations are tax deductible and receipts are available at collection sites. For more information about SSFS or the fundraising drive, please contact Ms. Meilach at 708-794-2140, extension 303.

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

Do you have old televisions, computers, video games or other electronics or household appliances that need to be recycled? Want to know how to properly dispose of old or unused medication? Click on the "Recycling" icon found on the top of eNews Park Forest and you will find useful information on proper recycling/disposal that will not only be good for the environment, but in some cases, earn you a few dollars as well.

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

The Park Forest Health Department and Environment Commission have partnered to provide information on the proper disposal of bio-waste such as used syringes or lancets (medical sharps). Begin by purchasing a Sharps container to dispose of your medical sharps for $10 at the Park Forest Health Department. Return the filled container to the Park Forest Health Department and purchase a new container. Call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118 for more information.

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is conducting a used cell phone and accessory collection drive to benefit the families and programs of the South Suburban Family Shelter. Donated items can be placed in the collection box located in the lobby of Village Hall. For more information, call Denyse Carreras at 708-283-5603.

Sources: Park Forest 2011 Autumn Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 2011/2012 Park Forest Fall/Winter Calendar, Park Forest ‘Discover’ magazine, Rich Township Report, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.

Chicago, IL-(ENEWSPF)- Robert D. Grant, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is asking for the public’s help in identifying the individual depicted on the below wanted flyer, dubbed the “Man in Black” robber, who is responsible for the armed robbery of at least one bank in the Chicago area.

The robbery took place on April 6, 2011, at a Citibank branch, located at 5674 South Archer Avenue. According to witnesses, the robber entered the bank wearing a black motorcycle helmet and approached the counter. The robber motioned as though he was going to take off the motorcycle helmet, but instead reached into his jacket and pulled out a small, semi-automatic handgun and a black draw-string bag.

The robber then stated, “Give me all your money, I’m not kidding.” As the tellers put the money on the counter, the robber told one of the bank employees to put the money in the bag and told all of the tellers to “hurry up” while pointing the gun at them. The robber took the money from the tellers and began to leave the bank. While walking toward the southeast exit, the robber pointed the gun at an employee and stated, “Boom! Boom! You’re dead!” The robber then exited the bank on foot, last seen walking north on Laramie Avenue.

The “Man in Black” robber is described as a white/male, approximately 5’10”–6’2” tall, with a thin build. He wore a black “HJC” Motorcycle Helmet with dark visor, black jeans, black leather gloves, black leather riding jacket, and white tennis shoes during the robbery.

This case is being investigated by the Chicago FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), which is comprised of FBI special agents, detectives from the Chicago Police Department and investigators from the Cook County Sheriff’s Police.

Anyone recognizing this individual or having any information about this robbery is asked to call the Chicago FBI at (312) 421-6700 or any law enforcement agency.

Additional information about this and other unsolved Chicago area bank robberies, including downloadable photographs, is available on-line at the Bandit Tracker Chicago web site, www.bandittrackerchicago.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE:  Copies of the below wanted flyer are available from the Chicago FBI’s press office at (312) 829-1199.

Long-time Richton Park Village Clerk Mary Pierce died peacefully at home Wednesday. (PHOTO SUPPLIED)

Richton Park, IL-(ENEWSPF)- Referring to her as "the living history of Richton Park," Mayor Rick Reinbold shared the news of the passing of Mary Pierce, Village Clerk for 20 years.

Mayor Reinbold said Ms. Pierce, an octogenarian, died "very peacefully" Wednesday evening in her home. "She was still involved, still vibrant, still contributing," playing bingo every Wednesday at the VFW, Reinbold told ENEWSPF Friday night.

Ms. Pierce moved to Richton Park in 1928. She enjoyed relating that when her family moved to town, the town's population sign read "50."

Village officials released a statement regarding the loss of Ms. Pierce:

We offer our deepest sympathy for the loss of Ms. Mary Pierce. The Village was very proud to call Mary our friend and Village Clerk for the past 20 years. We have lost one of the kindest and gentlest people we have ever had the privilege to know. She was a dear ally and kind person to the Village of Richton Park. We will all miss her dearly.

Mary's wish was that there be no service. As difficult as that may be, it is important to honor Mary's wish. She asked her remains be donated to science and any donations in her memory be made to the American Cancer Society.

‘Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow;
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow’

Mayor Reinbold will honor Mary's memory with a resolution at the Village Board meeting on Monday, February 13.