Main Street Nights returns Wednesday with CN-Little Obie, the Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team, Park Forest Idols, and Banda Rika. Also on the agenda this summer, Creole Stomp (above). (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—June 9, 2014. Park Forest’s Main Street Nights kicks off on Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m. The family oriented Main Street Nights features local and regional entertainers on stage in the Village Green located at Cunningham and Victory Boulevard. Vendors include civic groups selling snacks and beverages, plus Dunagains Irish Pub featuring grilled items and sides. Children can play in a bounce house provided by the Wiggle Room. Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy the free entertainment under the stars.
In case of rain, performances will be moved to Dining on the Green, next to the outdoor site.
As part of the Village’s Resident Appreciation Month in June, a Community BBQ event will take place on the Village Green on June 11 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The BBQ will coincide with the opening night of Main Street Nights and will include free hot dogs, hamburgers, etc. to the first 250 attendees.
The evening will also include a performance by the Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team at 7 p.m. followed by performers from the 2014 Park Forest Idols program at 7:30 p.m. The Banda Rika, named the ‘Best Suburban Latin Band’ will take the stage around 8 p.m. with their powerful, Latin music. In addition, Lil’ Obie – the CN-sponsored steam train – will be on hand to give rides around the perimeter of the DownTown throughout the evening and the Village will coordinate several ‘Touch a Truck’ stations on the Village Green which will allow the public to look at, sit in and, in some cases, even climb on various Village operational vehicles such as police cars, fire engines and public works construction machinery. So bring your family and friends to DownTown on Wednesday to kick-off the summer season.
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 [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.
Village of Park Forest
Village Commission & Advisory Boards
The following Park Forest Commissions and Advisory Boards are scheduled to meet the week of June 9:
- Tuesday, June 10 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
- Tuesday, June 10 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
- Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group
The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Arts & Entertainment
DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago
Quilt Show ‘From Heart to Hand’ – Through June 22
DePaul University’s Art Museum will unveil a new exhibition, “From Heart to Hand,” will run through June 22 featuring 23 quilts produced by African-American women. Originally organized by the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in Alabama, the exhibition demonstrates that quilts are not just household goods, but are also a means of personal expression. While quilting has been around in various forms for centuries, Louise Lincoln, Museum Director, explains that it was approximately 15 years ago that the contemporary art world “discovered” the distinctive work of the women in the town of Gee’s Bend, Alabama, who created quilts with intricate patterns that resembled abstract paintings. As the Gee’s Bend artists have become famous, quilt exhibitions have grown in popularity and have been featured in major museums, including the Whitney Museum in New York. The collection on display at DePaul Art Museum will include examples from Gee’s Bend, as well as other styles and subjects from the region of western Alabama, giving viewers rich insight on tradition and community. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, visit bit.ly/PUx4cp. The DePaul Art Museum at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 773-325-7506 or visit www.depaul.edu/museum.
DePaul University Cortelyou Commons, 2324 North Fremont Street, Chicago
Author Sandra Cisneros to Present ‘My Chicago’ – Friday, June 13
Author Sandra Cisneros will discuss her career and award-winning writings in a presentation titled “My Chicago” on June 13 at DePaul University in Cortelyou Commons. Hosted by the School for New Learning, the event will begin with a breakfast at 8:30 a.m., after which, Cisneros will give a talk and sign books. Born and raised in Chicago, Cisneros is a trailblazing author whose prized novels were some of the first to introduce Latina characters into mainstream American fiction. After achieving critical success, she created several innovative programs to jump-start the careers of other Latina and Latino artists. Cisneros’ talent and contributions to literature have been recognized by many national organizations including the National Endowment for the Arts, Before Columbus Foundation, Mexican Fine Arts Center, MacArthur Foundation and Texas Cultural Trust. Her 1984 novel “The House on Mango Street” tells the sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes deeply joyous story of a young girl growing up in a diverse neighborhood in Chicago. In addition to her writing, Cisneros is known for her community service and activism. She supports public libraries, education and literacy efforts, and speaks often about the importance of mentoring and empowering young Latinas. Through her groundbreaking work and selfless encouragement of others, Cisneros has shown how an individual can use personal success to benefit entire communities. She has been recognized by others as an inspiration to writers, readers, young Latinos and to those who understand the power of the literary voice to shape perspectives and inspire others into action. Co-sponsored by DePaul University Department of Latin American and Latino Studies, Center for Latino Research, DePaul Women’s Network and Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement, admission for the event is free and open to the public. RSVP by calling 312-362-8455 or emailing [email protected].
Drama Group, Chicago Heights
‘Taking Steps’ A British Farce from the Stables Theatre-UK – Through June 15
The comedy ‘Taking Steps’ will be performed by British actors will run through June 15 at the Studio Theatre, 330 W. 202 Street, Chicago Heights. ‘Taking Steps’ follows a mismatch of people in one house; Roland wants to buy an old house that was once a brothel for Elizabeth, his new wife of three months. She however is planning to leave him, but when she confides in her brother Mark, things start to go hilariously wrong. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on June 12, 13, and 14 and at 2 p.m. on June 15. Tickets are $19 for adults, $18 for Seniors (Age 65+), $18 for Students (with Student ID), and $15 for groups of 25+. To purchase tickets online, visit: dramagroup.org/boxoffice.asp. For additional information, call 708-755-3444.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
IPO Chamber Players String Trio – Wednesday, June 11
On Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m., the IPO’s annual series of chamber music concerts at the idyllic Ravisloe Country Club, 18231 S. Park Avenue, Homewood, returns for another season. Join friends, superb IPO musicians, and guest artists for diverse and entertaining concerts in one of the most relaxing settings imaginable. General admission tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at https://secure.ticketsage.net. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
Espirit de Corps Exhibition – Through August 1, 2014
NVAM is celebrating its first anniversary in its Milwaukee Avenue location with its art exhibition, Esprit de Corps, an exhibition highlighting the spirit of creative resilience. Esprit de Corps features art by nine veterans of Vietnam, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror. The NVAM will be free and open to the public through August 1, 2014. Esprit de Corps is sponsored by Omicron, Bank of America and Paratech Incorporated. Drawing on breakthroughs in using art to assist with reintegration of veterans and for therapeutic expression, Esprit de Corps traces the process and roles of therapeutic art from the act of initial perception through expression of experience to an ultimate communal sharing and understanding of the real impact of war. Featured artists include Joseph Fornelli, Jerry Frech, Jonathan Hancock, Peter Sullivan, Benjamin Suarez, Thomas Gilbertson, Theodore Gostas, Richard Williams and Erica Slone. High resolution images of work in the show are available through the NVAM’s Dropbox. For additional information and hours, visit the museum’s website at www.nvam.org.
Surrealism and War – Through November 1
Surrealism and War, an exhibition of veterans’ artwork that explores the relationship between surrealism and the experience of war will be on display at the NVAM through November 1. Surrealism and War includes the seminal work “The Earth Lies Screaming” by Jim Leedy, a Korean War veteran who was one of only two Americans invited to participate in the largest Surrealist exhibition ever assembled at the Retretti Art Center, Finland, an exhibition that began with Miro, Dali, and DuChamp, and culminated with several works by Mr. Leedy. Surrealism is an attempt to revolt against the inherent contradictions of a society ruled by rational thought while dominated by war and oppression. Surrealism seeks expression of thought in the absence of all control exercised by reason and free of aesthetic and moral preoccupation. It is this same absence of control exercised by reason that many combat veterans seek to explore and express after their experiences in war. Surrealism and War features the artwork of nine veteran artists that intentionally and unintentionally use and explore Surrealist processes and concepts. Featured artists include Korean War veteran Jim Leedy, Vietnam War veterans William Dugan, Stan Gillett, Michael Helbing, and Richard Yohnka, Gulf War veteran Ehren Tool, Kosovo veteran Giuseppe Pellicano, and Iraq War veterans David Keefe and Robynn Murray. The National Veterans Art Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. For group admission reservations, call the Museum at 312/326-0270 or visit www.nvam.org. Patrons of the museum can access art from the permanent collection and biographical information on the artists through the NVAM Collection Online, a recently launched online and high-resolution archive of every piece of art in the museum’s permanent collection. The NVAM Collection Online can be found at www.nvam.org.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Summer Reading 2014 Kickoff with Artist Terri Murphy – Monday, June 9 – Registration Required
Are you a lion, tiger or bear? Maybe have wings of an eagle? Using chalk and oil pastels, release your WILD side with Terri Murphy, iRead 2014 Children’s Illustrator. Join us for a WILD time at our kickoff event on Monday, June 9 at 6:30 p.m. Spaces are limited and registration is required for all young artist participants. Click here to register.
Terri Murphy lives and breathes children’s illustration. She is a children’s book Illustrator, the coordinator for SCBWI’s Illustrator Network in Illinois and holds art workshops for adults and kids. In 2014, Terri will be the premier illustrator for ILA (Illinois Library Association). Her artwork will appear on the children’s, Young Adult, and Adult summer iRead program promo posters in Illinois libraries and in 24 countries. In addition to picture books, she has illustrated for children’s magazines, educational and religious children’s books, music cd covers, and wall murals. Her latest picture book, ONE DAY I WENT RAMBLING (Bright Sky Press, 2012) deals with a subject near and dear to her heart. “Rambling” is a euphemism for finding the treasure in the ordinary. It’s the story of a highly imaginative boy who convinces his reluctant friends to join his rambling escapades and in the end, they build something fantastic together. In much the same way, Terri’s illustrations for this book were HER ramblings. In addition to her painting techniques, Terri incorporated textures from her wanderings into nature photography. Look closely and you may find extreme close-ups of a butterfly’s wing, mossy tree bark, sparkle-kissed waves, and rust patterns used in surprising ways.
This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Public Library
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Public Library:
- Tuesday, June 10 at 7 p.m. — Goodnight Zoo — Wear your PJs out on the town! Bring along a fuzzy friend and your blanket too! Stories, crafts, and more… Ages 12 and under.
- Wednesday, June 11 at 11 a.m. – Storypalooza — Grab some carpet and discover some books you will go wild about! Ages 10 and under.
- Wednesday, June 11 at 1:30 p.m. — Wild about Wii — Come hang out and play some wild games on the Wii. Impress your friends with your stellar hand-eye coordination. Ages 12 and under.
- Thursday, June 12 at 2 p.m. – Unplugged — Drop the gadgets and head over to the library! Think you are an animal expert? Join us for weird animal trivia. Ages 12 and under.
- Friday, June 13 at 11 a.m. — Paws for a Mystery: A Cat Named Brat — Alice Nestleton, part-time actress and cat-sitter, must pound the hot streets of New York City after she becomes enmeshed in murder, mayhem, and missing felines.
- Friday, June 13 at 2 p.m. — Cyber Shelf — Do you have a tablet, e-reader of other gadget? Sop by the library and chat with our experts and find out all the great material you can access with your library card!
- Friday, June 13 at 2 p.m. — DIY (Do it Yourself) — Unleash your creativity and build something awesome! Registration is required. Ages 8-12. Registration Required.
- Saturday, June 14 at 11 a.m. — My Dad, My Hero — Bring your dad, stepdad, grandpa, cool uncle, or best older brother so we can share some awesomeness. Story, craft, and more… Ages 12 and under.
- Saturday, June 14 at 1 p.m. — Discovery: Veterinarian — Discover just what it takes to be a Veterinarian. All Ages.
For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org/
Basic First Aid for Kids – Registration Required – Limited Space
On June 18 at 10:30 a.m., learn basic first aid procedures like how to clean a cut, treat an insect bite, how to stop a bloody nose and lots of other useful tips. The instructor for this class is Captain Mike Wheeler of the Park Forest Fire Department. Class size is limited to 12 participants. Registration Required. For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org/
Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest
Step Back Into the 1950s at the Park Forest House Museum
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 141 Forest Blvd, Park Forest, is open Wednesday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The museum can also be open for groups by appointment, at other times. Donation is Adults $5; Children 12 & under free with an adult. Scout and school tours are priced individually. For details, to arrange a special group tour, or to volunteer, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252.
Park Forest Plaza Print for Sale
Annabelle Gould’s print of the Park Forest Plaza is available for sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. The vibrant print is from an original watercolor, showing kids and their moms in the Park Forest Plaza, in front of the old Holiday Theatre and Golden Hanger Shop. The print can be purchased at the House Museum during normal hours of operation on Wednesdays and Saturdays or through the Society’s online store on their website at www.parkforesthistory.org. Prints are $15 each. Online purchases also required an additional $6 fee for postage and handling. For additional information on other items for sale by the Society, visit www.parkforesthistory.org.
Park Forest Youth Commission, 350 Victory Drive
Carnival Coming to Town – June 19 through June 22
The Park Forest Youth Commission has undertaken much preparation to bring a carnival to Park Forest from Thursday, June 19 through Sunday, June 22. The Carnival will be held in the corner parking lot outside Village Hall and across from St. Irenaeus Church (intersection of Orchard Drive and Indianwood Boulevard). Hours of operation will be 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, noon to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon to 9:30 p.m. on Sunday. To help ensure the carnival runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely, the Youth Commission is seeking volunteers to provide additional support with crowd interaction and public safety. If you, your church group or community service group might be interested in volunteering for this great event, please contact Kevin Adams at 708-283-5650 or email [email protected]. Volunteer registration forms can be brought into the Recreation and Parks Department at Village Hall or sent via fax to 708-503-8561.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
‘Natural Woman’ by Donna Radcliffe – Reception June 20v
‘Natural Woman’ an exhibit by Donna Radcliffe will run through June 28. Donna Radcliffe explores nature and natural surroundings with works on canvas and paper. Come and meet the artist at the reception on Friday, June 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with music and refreshments. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information and Gallery hours, call 708-833-5108.
Father’s Day Sale
Looking for that special Father’s Day gift? Starting Saturday, June 7, come to Salon Gallery where you can choose from the wonderful array of Dad’s gifts such as pens, bowls and other special items for the male members of the family. For additional information and Gallery hours, call 708-833-5108.
SPAA Theatre & Performing Arts Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest
Grand Opening – Friday, June 13
The SPAA Theatre & Performing Arts Center will celebrate its grand opening on Friday, June 13 at 6:340 p.m. The event wll feature refreshments and a VIP reception at 7 p.m. Participants will be able to tour the new SPAA Theater and view a showcase of the upcoming shows. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-785-7371 or visit www.spaatheater.org.
‘It’s a Hard Knocks Life’ – Tickets Now on Sale
The SPAA Theatre & Performing Arts Center will present ‘It’s a Hard Knockis Life’ on Satruday, June 14 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. and Sunday, June 15 at 4 p.m. ‘It’s a Hard Knocks Life’ is an urban musical for the entire family. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Senior and group discounts are available. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-785-7371 or visit www.spaatheater.org.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Identity Interpreted and Assumed: Self Portrait’ – Through July 12
Tall Grass Arts Association’s next exhibition is ‘Identity Interpreted and Assumed: Self Portrait’ will run through July 12. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Juror Ruth Crnkovich selected works from 38 artists from around the country who have explored through direct representation and expressive interpretation the self-portrait as a symbol for identity. Crnkovich, well-known in our region for her roles as director and curator at galleries such as South Shore Arts, The Vietnam Veterans Museum, and our own Tall Grass Gallery, is also a respected art appraiser, and she has chosen works that range from literal portraits to mythical role-playing to symbolic meditations on how the artists see themselves. Artists included are: Jamilah Adebesin Mason, Marjorie Anderson, Dale Augustson, Sabine Betschart, Chris Cicala, Catherine Danae, Leonard Ferris, Lynn Garwood, Janet Glazar, Karen Anne Glick, John Gutierrez, Margi Hafer, Linda Lane Haynes, Mike Helbing, Gregg Hertzlieb, Jeanine Hill-Soldner, Fran Hollander, chawne kimber, Kim Laurel, Laura Lein-Svencner, Jean Lewis, Mikelle Lindsey, Carol Luc, Susan Mahan, Claudia McCarthy, Jennifer Meyer, Mary Lou Novak, Alison Oakes, Joseph Perryman, Alicia Post, Mark Reed, Don Sala, and Liz Clayton Scofield. For additional information please visit the Tall Grass website www.tallgrassarts.org or call the Gallery at 708-748-3377.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
‘A Little Garden Art’ Garden Walk – Presale Discount Tickets Now on Sale
USG’s annual garden walk, ‘A Little Garden Art’ will be held on Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine. Enjoy an enchanting day in the gardens as you experience some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes here in the south suburbs. Each garden will have a working artist creating art inspired by their surroundings and guests can watch artists working in a variety of media. Completed art will be displayed at Union Street Gallery after the walk in the fall. This is more of a "garden drive" than a walk, so transportation is necessary. Tickets are priced at $20 in advance or $25 the day of the event, but you can purchase a presale voucher now for only $18. For additional information or to purchase advance tickets, call 708-754-2601.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
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
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 [email protected].
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 12 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.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
Summer Basketball Camp – Camp Begins June 16
The SSC Basketball Program is now accepting registrations for their summer camps in June. The Bulldogs will host two camps–a Championship Basketball Camp from June 16th through June 19th from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and a Championship Shooting Camp from June 23rd through 26th from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the SSC Fitness Center/Fieldhouse. The camps are designed for Boys and Girls ages 7 – 17, and will be directed by Head Coach John Pigatti and players from the 2014 Bulldog Basketball Team. The cost of the Shooting Camp is $60 and the Basketball Camp is $105, with a special price of $140 for both camps. Campers will need shorts, basketball shoes, and a T-shirt or practice uniform. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase every day of the camps. The main goal of these camps is to provide each individual with an opportunity to become a better player and to have some fun along the way. In order to accomplish these goals, the emphasis will be on the fundamentals of basketball. The 2014 SSC Men’s Basketball Team finished 7th at the National Junior Conference Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament with a final record of 31-6. Coach Pigatti brings over 20 years of college coaching experience from a well-rounded background. He was also the head coach of the Five Star Basketball Post Development Camp where he instructed several top 100 high school players in the country. Pigatti has received six Region IV-A Coach of the Year Awards and has been named IBCA Coach of the Year. For more information, or to register for the Basketball Camps, please contact Coach Pigatti at 708-596-2000, ext. 2524 or email [email protected]. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
College for Kids & Day Camp Summer Programs at SSC – Classes Begin June 16
SSC’s Continuing Education Department is offering courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will entertain and challenge children and young adults. The majority of the College for Kids classes scheduled for this summer will begin the week of June 16th at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland and Oak Forest Center. In addition, SSC will offer a Jam Session Day Camp for $329, beginning on June 30, 2014. This four-week summer school program is less than $5 per hour for academics and fun enrichment programs three days a week. Math will consist of review and instruction of the basic arithmetic skills. In addition to Reading and Math, students will enjoy a variety of other stimulating activities, such as Spanish and Art.
The following Learning Enrichment Classes will be offered for preschoolers at a cost of $39 each:
Jump Start on Reading
Reading Readiness
ABC’s and 123’s
Dr. Seuss and Mother Goose
Jump Start on Kindergarten
The following classes will be offered for elementary school kids for $69 each:
Well Written Essays
Study Skills
Fun with Phonics
Grammar No Problem
Reading, Accelerated or Refresher
Math Refresher
Pre-Algebra
Spanish
The following high school classes will be offered for $69 each:
Written Essays
Study Skills
Introduction to Algebra
Pre-Algebra/Geometry
Conversational Spanish
Students with classes totaling $100 or more may be eligible for the FACTS deferred tuition payment plan. Visit “Continuing Education” online at www.ssc.edu for a complete listing of classes, or call 708- 596-2000, extension 2231.
Online Educational Resources
Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.
Top U.S. Universities
Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.
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.
Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street, Alsip
Free Community Education and Prevention Programs about Mental Health
Sertoma Centre’s Mental Health Services facility is offering community mental health seminars, free of charge to community groups, schools, law enforcement agencies, religious organizations, and other community groups at their location in Matteson or facility. Education Programs will include: Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) which increases public awareness of suicide and improves one’s ability to identify and refer those at risk for suicide. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education course that helps participants identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. Also included is Mental Health First Aid for Youth and Anxiety/Depression Screenings. Thanks to a grant, these educational opportunities are available at no cost to you or your organization. To arrange a free educational opportunity for your club, group, workplace, organization, or church, call Gia Washington at 708-748-1951, Ext. 418 or email at [email protected].
Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest
CPR Classes
CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html
Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest
Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café
Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Rich Township Senior Café 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 10 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.
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 program available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
Healthy Living Group – Thursday, June 12
UUCC will host a Health Living Group on Thursday, June 12 from noon to 1:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Expert yoga teacher, Karen Nielson, will talk about the benefits of yoga and lead us in some simple yoga moves. Karen teaches Yoga at UUCC on Mondays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m., as well as at other locations. We all want to be happy and healthy. So let’s share our knowledge and experience, and the wisdom of experts, to help each other and ourselves in our ongoing quest for health and happiness. We have started this free open group, meeting once each month, focusing on a health related topic, usually with a volunteer guest speaker or leader, sometimes with participation, and hopefully always with sharing, respect, and mutual support among participants. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org. UUCC is located just east of Western Avenue, south of Steger Road.
Green Events
Eisenhower High School, 1270-0 Sacramento Avenue, Blue Island
Household Hazardous Waste Collection – Saturday, June 28
Looking for a place to dispose of your household products that are harmful to your health and the environment? On Saturday, June 28 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. you can bring them to Eisenhower High School for proper disposal. Items that will be accepted are: aersol cans, antifreeze, auto and boat batteries, cleaning products, drain cleaners, herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, hobby chemicals, household battries, lawns and garden chemicals, mercury, motor oil and gasoline, oil based paint and paint thinners, pool chemicals, solvents and strippers, used/unwanted pharmeceuticals. Items that will not be accepted are: agricultural wastes, business wastes, fire extinguishers, gas cylinders, latex paint, radioactive material, regular garbage, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, institutional wates, propane tanks, sharps/syringes, and smoke detectors. This event is sponsored by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the city of Blue Island.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Organic Community Garden Plots Now Available
Gather up all your gardening tools and put them to good use at GSU’s organic community garden. Plots are now available. The university’s sustainable garden gives area residents a chance to use organic methods to grow the vegetables of their choice. The university’s garden is an opportunity to put to practice one of the themes that resonates throughout campus: sustainability. It also is an opportunity for gardeners to make healthy choices and achieve them on their own while building a sense of community with fellow gardeners. GSU will provide water to the University Sustainable Garden. Gardeners must bring their own tools, plants and/or seeds and must agree to follow organic gardening principles. GSU will provide a list of products that will be allowed at the community garden. Gardeners seeking assistance will be directed to resources from the University of Illinois Extension Service, American Community Garden Association, and other organizations. To be eligible for a garden plot, gardeners pay a nominal fee, from $10 to $20 depending on plot size, and agree to the rules and policies of the community garden by June 15. Garden plots are available on a first come, first served basis. The University Sustainable Garden will be open from dawn to dusk between May and October. The planting deadline is July 1. Gardens left unplanted on July 1 will be cleared and made available for reassignment to current gardens for fall planting only. GSU’s Office of Facilities Development and Management staff will oversee the seasonal operation of the garden and annual tilling of all plots. To apply for a garden plot, visit www.govst.edu/garden or contact the GSU Facilities and Development and Management Department at 708-534-4515.
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Wednesday Morning Walkers – June 11
On Wednesday, June 11 at 9 a.m., enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on Thorn Creek’s winding trails. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderator. The Wednesday morning walks will continue each week and walkers new to the program must register two days before they first hike. For additional information, please call 708-747-6320 or e-mail [email protected].
Prairie Sampler Work Day – Registration Required by Saturday, June 14
Get down and dirty and help Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension Service care for our Prairie Sampler every third Monday through September. Prairie Sampler Work Day will be Monday, June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and registration is required by Saturday, June 14. Bring your own gloves, hand clippers, kneelers if you like. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots. Refreshments will be provided. For additional information or to register, please call 708-747-6320 or e-mail [email protected].
Experience the Thorn Creek Nature Center
Thorn Creek Nature Center is housed in a historic building, originally Immanuel Lutheran Church of Matteson, Illinois built in 1862, and later Village Bible Church of Park Forest. A gothic frame country church, its notable architectural features include curved ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling and a raised pulpit. Its current attractions are displays of the preserve’s flora and fauna, a bird feeder viewing area, Eugene E. Schwartz reference library and an expanded children’s section. The Nature Center is open Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Trails are open daily year-round, dawn to dusk. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Clothing, Shoe Recycling at Park Forest Farmers’ Market
The Park Forest Farmers’ Market will now offer clothing and shoe recycling services from 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday through September. The dates when accepted items may be dropped off are:
- July 12
- August 9
- September 13
USAgain, a green, for-profit company committed to protecting the environment, conserving resources, and creating green sector jobs through the collection of textiles for reuse and recycling, has agreed to collect residents’ old shoes and clothing at the Market. Items dropped off will be diverted from landfills to be re-worn, reused or recycled – reducing the carbon footprint of residents. Accepted items include men’s, women’s and kids’ shoes, boots and clothing as well as gloves, hats, bags, purses and belts. Sheets, blankets, drapes and towels are also welcome. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays, May through October, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is located at 271 Lakewood Blvd, just across from the Park Forest Police Department. To learn more, call 708-748-1118.
Park Forest 41st Annual Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday through October 25
Park Forest’s 41st Annual Farmers’ Market will take place every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 25. The Market is located across the street from the Park Forest Police Station, 271 Lakewood Boulevard. The Market offers fresh vegetables, fruits, organic breads, salsa, specialty produce, garden bedding plants, perennials, garden ornaments, Amish butter, cheese and pies. A variety of food vendors, jewelry and oils will also be available for purchase. The Market accepts SNAP/Link cards, Senior Nutrition coupons and WIC. For additional information about the Farmers’ Market, call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118, email [email protected] or visit www.villageofparkforest.com.
This & That
Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights
Friday Fish Fry
Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, June 13 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
PSC Seeks Nominations for Community Service Awards – Nominations Due By Friday, June 13
Thousands of people in the Prairie State College (PSC) district give generously of their time and talent to make the community a better place. To honor these individuals, PSC is accepting nominations for two community service awards, one to honor a community member and another to honor a PSC graduate. The first is the Dr. James H. Griffith Community Service Award, given to a 2014 PSC graduate. Nominees should be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to the community. The award is named after former Trustee Dr. James H. Griffith, who served for 25 years on the PSC Board of Trustees. The second award is the Michael R. Monteleone Community Service Award, given to a community member of the PSC district. Nominees must be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to education through community service, as either a volunteer or a community leader. A nominee’s service efforts should be within the PSC district, although additional activities in other areas would be recognized. Also, the nominee should not be employed in the community service or public service field. The award is named after former Trustee and Board Chair Michael R. Monteleone, who served on the Board of Trustees for 21 years, from 1981 to 2002. All nominations must arrive at the PSC President’s Office no later than Friday, June 13. To receive a nomination form or for more information, call Pat Trost, executive assistant to the president, at 708-709-3637.
Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest
Senior Trip to Arlington Park Racetrack – Registration Now in Progress
All bets are on as The Rich Township Senior Services invites you to come and enjoy a wonderful day at the beautiful Arlington Park Racetrack! Our trip includes: admission to the park, daily racing guides, two-hour buffet and three-hour soft drink package – all in an air-conditioned room. The International Room provides a cheerful summer setting with floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views of the track and the horses battling down the stretch. The Graze Chef’s Table will satisfy all of you. It is important to remember that Arlington enforces a Business Casual dress code, which does not allow shorts or tennis shoes. The cost of the trip is $70 payable by cash or check. We will depart from the Senior Center parking lot promptly at 10:00 a.m. We will return at approximately 7:00 p.m. To join us for a day of racing fun, call 708-748-5454 to make your reservations. Your payment must be made no later than three days after your reservation.
