Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of November 2, 2009


Leonardo Valez as Bacon and Eggs

Leonardo Valez of Park Forest dressed up as bacon and eggs for Saturday’s Safe Halloween. (Photo: ENEWSPF)

Photo Gallery: Safe Halloween 2009

Updated 11/02/09 at 8:29 a.m. to include additional events at PF Library.

Park Forest, IL–(ENEWSPF)– November 2, 2009. Now that the weather is getting cooler we tend to begin to hibernate in our homes in front of the television. Instead, why not consider attending a Village Board and/or Commission meeting? Or check out some new musical genre or artwork at one of the many area venues? You’ll be glad you did.

Send information concerning your community activities or events during the upcoming week by e-mail to Rosemary Piser, Associate Editor, with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board and Commission Meetings

The following Village Advisory Boards and Commissions will meet the week of November 2:

  • Plan Commission – Tuesday, November 3 at 7 p.m.
  • Senior Citizen Advisory Commission, Tuesday, November 3 at 7 p.m.
  • Economic Development Advisory Group – Wednesday, November 4 at 7 p.m.
  • Environment Commission – Thursday, November 5 at 7 p.m.

All meetings are held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Healthy Living

AARP Safe Driving Program

The AARP Safe Driving Class will be held in the Board Room at the Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive on Tuesday, November 3 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The course qualifies seniors for a discount on the liability portion of their car insurance. The discount is good for three years, but you must contact your insurance company. The fee for the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Payment may be made by check ONLY and must be brought to class along with your AARP membership card. Checks should be made payable to AARP and dated November 3, 2009. For more information or to make a reservation, call the Rich Township Senior Center at 708-748-5454 or Brenda Walker at the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

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

Cook County Department of Public Health Prepares to Distribute H1N1 Vaccine

The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) officials are preparing a multifaceted approach to distribute the H1N1 influenza vaccine in suburban Cook County. The situation is fluid because the exact arrival time and quantity of vaccine from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is unknown. Residents are encouraged to contact the CCDPH for updated information at www.cookcountypublichealth.org or by e-mail: [email protected]. You can also call the CCDPH Flue Hotline at 708-742-2828 or the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118 for updates.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics – NEW HOURS

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.

Arts and Entertainment

Park Forest Idols Auditions – Applications Due November 9

The Village of Park Forest and Park Forest Community Ambassadors present the first Park Forest Idols event on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Freedom Hall’s Nathan Manilow Theatre. This event is open to Park Forest residents only and is limited to singing and dancing acts. Auditions will take place on November 20 and 21 at Village Hall. Audition entry forms are available at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com/clientuploads/Economic_Development/FinalEntryReleases.pdf or call Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621. Entry forms must be submitted no later than November 9, 2009. The first prize winner will receive $300 for each category, second place prize is $100 and third place is a Gift Certificate for the FieldCrest School of Performing Arts.

Tickets for the January 16 event are $5 in advance and $10 at the door. Proceeds will be donated to the Tall Grass Arts Association and Illinois Theatre Center.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

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

  • Monday, November 2 at 10:45 a.m. — Morning Story Times for children 3 to 6;
  • Tuesday, November 3 at 7 p.m. – Pajama Storytime for Children;
  • Wednesday, November 4 at 10:30 a.m. – Lap Sit Storytime for children 3 and under;
  • Wednesday, November 4 at 11:45 a.m. – Toddler Art for children ages 2 – 4;
  • Thursday, November 5 at 10:30 a.m. – Discovery Time for children ages 2 – 6;
  • Friday, November 6 at 4 p.m. — Greeting Cards.  Come and make a card for disabled veterans.  Cards will be delivered to veteran;s hospitals throughout the U.S.; and
  • Saturday, November 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – College Application Help with ISAC Representatives.

In addition, due to the library renovation, the following activity will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive:

  • Thursday, November 5 at 10:30 a.m. – Why Was the Civil Rights Movement Successful? Jack Bloom, Associate Professor of Sociology ad Indiana University will lead the discussion. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, call 708-748-3731, extension 20.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Way

“Here & Now: Annual Gallery Artists’ Exhibit” – Through November 21

View current works by fifty of the Tall Grass Arts Association’s Juried Artists. Viewing hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 708-748-3377.

2009 Art Film Series Continues

Tall Grass Arts Association’s 2009 Art Film festival continues on November 8 when the Woody Allen movie “Whatever Works” is shown. The film stars Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm creator, Larry David. The movie will be shown at the Marcus Theatre in Chicago Heights. Tickets are $8 and are available at the box office the day of the film. For more information, call 708-748-3377 Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

“Faith Journey” by Patricia Watkins – Through November 2

“Faith Journey,” a solo exhibition of paintings by Patricia Watkins, will be on display through November 2 at the Visual Arts Gallery at GSU. The opening reception is Friday, October 30 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. The Visual Arts Gallery is open Monday and Wednesday, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call, 708-534-4017, or visit: www.gsuvisualartsgallery.blogspot.com.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Way, Park Forest

Copenhagen – Through November 15

In 1941 German physicist Werner Heisenberg went to Copenhagen to see his Danish Counterpart, Niels Bohr. Together they had revolutionized atomic science in the 1920s, but now they were on opposite sides of a world war. In this incisive Tony Award Wining Drama, Copenhagen, by Michael Frayn features two men who meet in a situation fraught with danger in hopes of discovering why we do what we do. The New York Times says Copenhagen is “the most invigorating and ingenious play of ideas in many a year. An electrifying work of art.”

Tickets range from $19 – $21. There is a $1 discount for students and senior citizens at all performances. For more information, call 708-481-3510.

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University

A Tribute To Motown Greats – November 7

On Saturday, November 7 at 7:30 p.m., take a trip back in time when Motown was king as talented Chicagoland vocalists perform classic hits, such as Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles’ Tears of a Clown, Stevie Wonder’s Uptight (Everything’s Alright), Gladys Knight & the Pips’ Midnight Train to Georgia, and many more. Ticket prices range from $43 to $23. A $50 celebration ticket includes pre-show reception and post-show party with the cast. Call 708-534-4128 for tickets.

Heartbreaker – Tickets on Sale Now

On Saturday, November 14 at 8 p.m., plan on throwing on that old studded leather jacket and torn jeans for the Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute. Ticket prices range from $42 to $22. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 708-534-4128.

Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Boulevard

Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues Band –November 7

On Saturday, November 7 at 7 p.m., two time Grammy nominee blues harmonica legend Billy Branch, an ambassador of Chicago Blues, and the Sons of Blues will perform. Tickets are $25.

A pre-concert Blues Harmonica Workshop will be held on November 7 at 3 p.m. where participants can learn how to play the harmonica from blues legend Billy Branch. Billy Branch developed the “Blues in Schools” program over 25 years ago and has taught students all over the world. Beginners and experienced, young or old can participate. Tickets for the workshop are $23. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit: www.freedomhall.org.

Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard (Corner of Forest & Fir)

Relive your childhood memories or show your children/grandchildren what it was like to live in the ‘good old days’ by visiting the Park Forest House Museum. The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Group tours are by appointment. Call 708-748-3731.

Educational Lectures

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Lakewood Blvd.

Suburban Development

On Sunday, November 8 from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Joseph P. Schwieterman, Ph.D. will provide a lecture on suburban development. The event will be held at the Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Dr. Schwieterman is the Director of DePaul University’s Chaddick Institute, which promotes effective urban planning, Dr. Schwieterman is also actively involved in research about planning and development in metropolitan Chicago. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

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

Reflecting on the Past and Looking to the Future

As part of its 40th Anniversary events, GSU is sponsoring a discussion featuring a panel of distinguished guests on Friday, November 6 at 3 p.m. in Engbretson Hall. The discussion will focus on the birth, growth, and the future of the university. Current GSU president, Dr. Elaine Maimon and past president, Dr. Goodman-Malamuth, II will be joined by Adenuga Atewologun, Vice President of Academic Affairs at PSC, and Dr. Blondean Davis, Superintendent of Matteson School District 162. After the discussion, a permanent, interactive history wall commemorating the past 40 years will be unveiled in the main entrance atrium. A public reception will follow. For more information, call 708-534-4128 or visit www.govst.edu/40years.

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

Restorative Justice Facilitator Training

Restorative Justice Facilitator Training will be offered on Saturday, November 7, Friday, November 13, and Saturday, November 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at PSC. This training is free and will help prepare schools and communities to respond to rising juvenile crime in the south suburbs. The training will focus on holding youths accountable, developing responsible behaviors, considering the victims of crime, and empowering communities to provide for the general welfare of its members. Continuing Education Units and Continuing Professional Development Units for social workers and teachers are available for a minimal charge. For more information or to register, call 708-235-3987.

This and That

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd.

Roots and Shoots

On Saturday, November 7 from 10 a.m. to noon, children ages 5 – 10 are encouraged to explore the environment, their community and the world around them. Fee is $5. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Into The Dark Deer Hike

On Friday, November 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. learn what deer do at night. Where do they sleep and how do they see in the dark? Get the answers to these questions and more on this night hike. Registration is required. Call 708-747-6320 to register or for additional information.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St.

Refreshing Times

On Friday, November 6 at 1 p.m., all senior are welcome to this monthly fellowship. Join us for arts and crafts, food and bible lessons. For more information, call 708-503-6536.

St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, 227 Monee Rd.

Harvest Craft Festival

On Saturday, November 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. St. Mary’s will be holding a fundraising craft festival for the school. Local crafters and vendors will be showcasing and selling their products. The student council operates the “Council Café.” Patrons can shop and enjoy a leisurely lunch. For more additional information or to obtain a booth, call 708-748-6686.

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Lakewood Blvd.

Park Forest Hall of Fame Nominations

Know a person who has made a substantial, beneficial, and consistent contribution to the life and well-being of Park Forest over a considerable span of time? Why not nominate them for possible induction into the Park Forest Hall of Fame? Nominees may now live elsewhere or be deceased. Individuals or couples may be nominated. Inductees will be chosen from among the eligible nominees by the Park Forest Historical Society and announced publicly early in 2010. To nominate someone, complete a nomination form found on the Historical Society’s website: http://www.parkforesthistory.org/. Nominations must be received by December 15, 2009.

Greening of Park Forest

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.

Go Green with a Free Tote Bag

The Village of Park Forest encourages residents to visit Village Hall to pick up an environmentally friendly canvas bag that can be used for your day-to-day shopping needs. These bags are free while supplies last with only two expectations: 1) that residents have a valid email address so that future environmentally conscious concepts can be shared by the Village’s Environment Commission; and 2) that bags are limited to one per household. For more information on this program, visit the Village Manager’s Office on the second floor of Village Hall of call 708-748-1129.

Human Interest

Rotary Club of Park Forest

Golden Opportunities Fundraising Project

Looking for a unique gift for a friend, family member or co-worker? Golden Opportunities coupon books make a great gift. Golden Opportunities is the only coupon book that offers coupons at favorite local restaurants, movies, groceries, sporting events and much more. Coupons are valid once a month and a single coupon can offer you hundreds of dollars in savings. Customers can receive 50% off and 2 for 1 discounts. Golden Opportunities Books are $25. Proceeds from the sales support the Rotary Club of Park Forest’s Early Act program – a school-wide service club for elementary students from ages 5 to 13. Books can be purchased by calling Jerome Brown at 773-416-1441.

“The Pantry” of Rich Township

Fundraiser – November 14

“The Pantry” of Rich Township is a not-for-profit organization that provides food at no cost to over 750 low-income families who reside in the 10 surrounding communities of Rich Township

Help support the mission of “The Pantry” by purchasing a Carson’s Community Day Book for only $5.00. Coupons can be used at any Carson Pirie Scott location on November 14 beginning at 6 a.m. when numerous discounts and savings can be obtained through the various offers detailed in the coupon book.

Coupon books can be purchased at the Economic Development and Planning Office on the 2nd floor of Park Forest Village Hall. For more information about “The Pantry” or the fundraiser, call 708-748-6722.

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.

Sources:Village of Park Forest Weekly Manager’s Report, 2009 Autumn Recreation Programs, Park Forest Fall/Winter 2009 Calendar of Events, Rotary Club of Park Forest, Cook County Health and Hospital System, League of Women Voters of Park Forest, Park Forest Library, Tall Grass Arts Association, Center for Performing Arts, Prairie Sate College, Governors State University, Illinois Theatre Center, and Park Forest Historical Society websites.


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