In and Around Park Forest Week of April 20, 2015

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—April 20, 2015. Hydrant flushing begins in Park Forest on April 20 and will continue through Memorial Day. Hydrants are flushed to remove rust and sediment from the water system. Flushing will begin at 9 a.m., on weekdays only. No flushing will take place on weekends. Flushing will begin in the north part of town — near the intersection of Route 30 and Orchard Drive. To assist residents with tracking the contractors’ progress with the flushing, the Village has developed a new, interactive map that will provide you with real-time updates. This map will also advise you as to when your neighborhood will be flushed. For additional information, call 708-503-7702. View the hydrant flushing progress map!

Folks on Spokes Bicycle Club’s 34th Annual Easter Ride is scheduled for Sunday, April 26. Riders can choose from five routes of 17, 26, 37, 53 and 70 miles on lightly traveled, paved roads over gently rolling countryside. The ride begins at Park Forest Village Hall on 350 Victory Drive between 7:30 and 10:00 a.m. Additional information about the event can be found in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section.

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 Board Meeting – Monday, April 20

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, April 20 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.  Residents are encouraged to attend. Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site here.

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site here and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commissions are scheduled to meet the week of April 20:

• Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
• Wednesday, April 22 at 7 p.m. – Cable Communications Commission

The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Park, University Park

‘Kimberly Akimbo’ – Friday & Saturday, April 24 & 25

A young woman trapped in the body of a 72-year old. And she’s the normal one in the family. While contending with a hypochondriac mother, a rarely sober father, and a criminal aunt, could there be love on the horizon? Patrons will want to find out on April 24 & 25 at 8 p.m. when Governors State University’s (GSU) Theatre and Performance Studies department stages the Pulitzer prize-winning playwright David Lindsay-Abaire’s dark comedy, “Kimberly Akimbo” in Sherman Hall. Tickets are $15 and $10 for students with valid I.D. Kimberly Akimbo tells the story of a teenage girl who suffers from a rare genetic disorder that causes her 16-year old body to age at four and a half times its normal rate. Despite her condition, Kimberly is the most functional and sane member of her family. When she meets fellow outcast Jeff, an anagram-obsessed geek, she is faced with balancing the emotions of first love, her wild family and her condition. This one-of-a-kind coming of age story is puzzling and unexpectedly heart-warming. The Los Angeles Times calls it “A breezy, foulmouthed, fleet-footed, warmhearted comedy. There have been many dark comedies about dysfunctional families, but this is one of the funniest.” This is the fifth production by the new Theatre & Performance Studies (T.A.P.S.) program, recently approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education as a Bachelor’s Degree; the only such degree combining the two disciplines at a state university in Illinois. Having previously staged works of poetry (Anne Sexton’s “Transformations”), musical theatre (“A…My Name is Alice”), a docudrama (“Still Life”), and classic drama (Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”) T.A.P.S. is excited to present a comedy. The five person cast consists of GSU staff and students, both theatre veterans and newcomers.
How to Buy Tickets

• Online:CenterTickets.net
• By Phone: 708-235-2222
• In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
• Box Office Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Download the Center’s APP: goo.gl/nqy4ul

This play contains mature themes and language. A portion of GSU’s arts programming is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

National Touring Production Presents ‘In the Mood’ – Sunday, April 26

GSU’s Center for Performing Arts celebrates the greatest generation with the swinging sounds of the 1940s in the national touring production, ‘In the Mood’ on Sunday, April 26 at 4 p.m. Much more than a concert, this retro musical features singers, dancers and the sensational String of Pearls Orchestra. By recreating the best popular music and songs of the late 1930s and the 1940s, ‘In the Mood’ aspires to promote the memory of this most significant time in American history. Popular songs include: In the Mood (Garland); Jeepers Creepers (Warren, Mercer); Taking a Chance on Love (Duke, Latouche, Fetter); Ain’t We Got Fun (Egan, Kahn, Whiting); Chattanooga Choo (Warren, Gordon); and many more. Now in its 21st year of touring, the show has performed in major performing arts centers, arenas, state fairs, prestigious corporate events, and an Inaugural Ball for President Clinton’s second term. Starting in 1993, World USO selected the production as the official entertainment for the 50th Commemoration of World War II. From 1994 to 2013 this show has traveled to over 48 states, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and Australia for dozens of sold out performances. Tickets range from $25-40. Adults 65+ pay only $20.
How to Buy Tickets

• Online:CenterTickets.net
• By Phone: 708-235-2222
• In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
• Box Office Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Download the Center’s APP: goo.gl/nqy4ul

This performance is generously sponsored by Humana. For more information, visit www.humana.com. WDCB radio is a media sponsor of the event. A portion of GSU’s arts programming is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago

‘Rooted in Soil’ – Through April 26

Beneath the grass and pavement that cover Chicago lies a vital, under-valued ecosystem that gives rise to a new art exhibition — ‘Rooted in Soil’ — is now running at the DePaul Art Museum through April 26. The event is free and open to the public. Curators Laura Fatemi, interim director of the DePaul Art Museum, and her daughter Farrah Fatemi, an environmental scientist and assistant professor at Saint Michael’s College, combined their knowledge of art and science to explore the underappreciated role of soil in human life. ‘Rooted in Soil’ offers viewers a unique way to engage with environmental issues through the arts. Upon entering the museum, visitors will encounter a hanging terrarium built by artist Vaughn Bell, whose work challenges city dwellers to reconnect with nature. Bell invites viewers to enter the biosphere of the terrarium and peer out across the surface of the soil. For more information on events related to ‘Rooted in Soil,’ visit http://museums.depaul.edu/. The DePaul Art Museum at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://museums.depaul.edu/. Photos from the exhibit can be viewed at: http://newsroom.depaul.edu/NewsReleases/showImage.aspx?NID=2845.

DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine, Chicago

‘The Day John Henry Came to School’ – Through May 16

The Theatre School at DePaul University will present ‘The Day John Henry Came to School’ by Eric Pfeffinger, directed by Ernie Nolan, as the final production of the 2014-15 Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences season. This production runs through May 16 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. Performances are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Special Friday performances will be held April 24 and May 1 at 10 a.m. A Sunday performance will be held April 12 at 2 p.m. About the play: John Henry loves technology, but doesn’t love doing his homework. If buttons and gadgets are not involved, he’s not interested. When his teacher, Mr. Gellert, is replaced by a mega-computer, Johnny couldn’t be happier. Then his steel-driving great-great-grandfather arrives for show-and-tell, and Johnny must take on the challenge of his life. This contemporary tale focuses on the value of hard work and the strength of the human spirit. Recommended for ages 8 and older, themes include: ancestry; confidence; diligence; folklore and tall tales; motivation; technology and humanity. Information about pre- and post-show educational activities and highlighted curriculum connections is online at http://theatre.depaul.edu. Free Teacher Guides also are available online or by calling the box office at 312-922-1999. The May 1 and May 2 performances will be interpreted in American Sign Language. Call TTY: 773-325-7975. The April 30 and May 9 performances will be followed by a post-show discussion. Visit the website or call the box office for additional details. Tickets are $10. Subscriptions and group rates (15 or more people) are available. DePaul employees, alumni, and college students receive a discount (with ID). Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at 312-922-1999.

‘The Duchess of Malfi’ – Through Sunday, April 26

The Theatre School at DePaul University will present ‘The Duchess of Malfi’ by John Webster at the Fullerton Stage Theatre. The production, directed by Lavina Jadhwani, premieres on April 17 and runs through April 26. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. About the play: The Duchess asserts her freedom of choice to marry whom she pleases, even if her beloved Antonio is “beneath her class.” Her brothers retaliate in protest and send their henchman, Bosola, to keep an eye on the Duchess. The result: a tragedy full of complex players, destruction, violence, greed, secrets, madness, murders, double crosses, poison, treachery and good old-fashioned aristocratic revenge. Notoriously one of the greatest blood baths of the stage, this Jacobean drama is reimagined by Jadhwani, MFA Directing, class of 2015. Tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10, and student tickets are $5. Subscriptions and group rates (six or more people) are available. All tickets are reserved seating. Tickets are available by calling 773-325-7900 or visiting the online box office at http://theatre.depaul.edu. The Theatre School at DePaul University is located at 2350 N. Racine Ave (at Fullerton). The school is easily accessible via the Fullerton CTA Station and the Fullerton (74) bus. Visitors and audience members can park in DePaul University’s Clifton Parking Deck, located at 2330 N. Clifton Avenue. Please call the Box Office for more information or for help in planning your trip. For patrons who are blind or have low-vision, the performance will be audio described on April 24 at 7:30 p.m. with a pre-performance touch tour. Call 773-325-7900 for information. The performance on April 26 at 2 p.m. will be interpreted in American Sign Language. Call TTY at 773-325-7975. Wednesday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. is USO of Illinois night. U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families can attend the performance for free. Visit www.tixfortroops.org to reserve tickets, or call 773-325-7900 for more information. Additional special events include a post-show discussion on April 23.

Drama Group, 330 202nd Street, Chicago Heights

‘Hairspray’ – Tickets Now on Sale

The Drama Group is very pleased to present the fun musical ‘Hairspray’ directed by Charlie Misovye, with set design by Russ Hoganson. Performances will be held at the Bloom Auditorium Theatre, 10th Street and Dixie Highway in Chicago Heights, on May 2 & 3 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday May 4 at 2:00 p.m. ‘Hairspray’ is the story of a teen girl who longs to appear on a 1960s TV dance show and win the heart of the boy of her dreams – without denting her ‘do! ‘Hairspray’ inspired a major motion picture and won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. “You Can’t Stop the Beat” of this great show set in the ‘60s. Tickets are $21 for adults and $20 for seniors and $15 for students with ID. Group discount rates are also available. Good seats are still available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 708-755-3444, online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/profile/242073 or see at www.dramagroup.org

Folks On Spokes, Park Forest

34th Annual Easter Ride – Sunday, April 26

The 34th Annual Easter Ride is scheduled for Sunday, April 26. The ride, sponsored by the Folks on Spokes Bicycle Club, starts from the Park Forest Village Hall on 350 Victory Drive between 7:30 and 10:00 a.m. Riders can choose from five routes of 17, 26, 37, 53 and 70 miles on lightly traveled, paved roads over gently rolling countryside. Rest stops along the route provide riders with fruit, drinks, sandwiches, and homemade cookies. After the ride, participants are invited to stop in at Dining on the Green for music, a massage (for a fee) and more refreshments, including the traditional Easter egg salad sandwiches. The fee for the ride is $20 for pre-registrants before April 12 and $25 thereafter. The fee entitles riders to a map of the routes, access to all rest stops, SAG support, and parking. Short and long sleeve t-shirts with this year’s Easter Ride logo may be ordered for an additional fee with pre-registration. A registration form is available at local bike shops or may be downloaded from www.folksonspokes.com/activities/biking/easter-ride-copy. Folks on Spokes encourages riders to obey all traffic laws, practice courtesy, communicate with fellow riders, ride single file when vehicles are approaching from either direction – and complete the adult or child bike safety quiz at www.bikesafetyquiz.com. Proceeds from the ride help fund the club’s activities throughout the year and support bicycle advocacy and other organizations. Last year, donations were made to the League of American Bicyclists, the League of Illinois Bicyclists, the Active Transportation Alliance, Trails for Illinois, the Indiana Bicycle Coalition, Friends of the Cal Sag Trail, Friedrich’s Ataxia Research Association, and the Mercy Riders. Folks on Spokes members live across the south suburbs and northeastern Indiana. Group rides start in a variety of locations with most starting in Frankfort.

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

(The Symphony) Redefined and Refined: Project Trio and Brahms – Tickets Now on Sale

(The Symphony) Redefined and Refined: Project Trio and Brahms will be performed on Saturday May 2, 2015 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 South Harlem Avenue, Frankfort. Classically trained flutist Greg Pattillo, cellist Eric Stephenson and bassist Peter Seymour became overnight YouTube sensations because of their passion for artistry and innovation. They delight and engage the audience, performing original arrangements for trio and orchestra. Maestro Danzmayr and the IPO enchant with a Kernis composition of transcendent beauty and Brahms’ well-known artistic masterpiece Symphony No. 3. This performance repeats at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, at Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois. Tickets are $35, $45 and $455 and can be purchased online at https://secure.ticketsage.net/websales.aspx?u=ipo&pid=251678. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.

National Veterans Art Museum, 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

‘The Things They Carried’ – Permanent Exhibit

The National Veterans Art Museum reopened its permanent exhibit ‘The Things They Carried’ in a brand new gallery space meant to be more immersive for viewers. Inspired by Tim O’Brien’s book ‘The Things They Carried,’ this exhibit serves as a visual companion that illustrates the narrative with fine art and photography from veterans that lived the stories in the novel. Much like the book, the exhibit explores the concept of storytelling and questions how one might share the story of the Vietnam experience. The exhibit takes as its central question “how to tell a true war story” and prompts viewers to consider their personal stories and contemplate how they might share their own narratives. By literally incorporating the essential elements of storytelling: Who, Where, When, and What, ‘The Things They Carried’ begins by chronicling the Vietnam conflict through first-hand visual accounts and descriptions. The exhibit culminates in the re-creation of an authentic Vietnam-era tented shelter to bring viewers into the intimate physical experience of sleeping, living and working in the field during that time. With artworks and objects created and collected by over twenty Vietnam veteran artists, ‘The Things They Carried’ also provides visual interpretations to viewers, illustrating the war by those who were there. This form of pictorial storytelling offers insights into the individual personalities of those who served, where they were in Vietnam both geographically and environmentally, and what the cultural climate of the time looked like. Representations and artifacts come together in ‘The Things They Carried’ to offer an individuated and holistic presentation of the social and historical context of the Vietnam War. With didactic guides and lesson plans that accompany the artwork and artifacts, visitors of all ages can gain a better understanding of “how to tell a true war story” as explored in Tim O’Brien’s book, as well as explore possibilities and benefits of personal storytelling. Featured artists include László Kondor, Dean Sharp, Charles Shobe, William Myles, James McJunkin, John Hosier, Michael Harac, and Arthur Jacobs. The Museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers free admission year-round. For additional information, call 312-326-0270 or visit: www.nwam.org. 

Park Forest Historical Society, 141 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest House Museum – Moving to New Location

The Park Forest House Museum is now closed while moving from its current location at, 141 Forest Boulevard to 227 Monee Road. It is anticipated that the re-opening will take place in June and the specific date announced soon. For additional information, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

The following events are scheduled the week of April 20:

• Monday, April 20 at 11 a.m. – Storypalooza — A fun story time for all kids through the age of 6 with an adult. Siblings are welcome
• Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime — Wear your PJs out on the town! Bring along a fuzzy friend and your blanket too! Stories, activities, and more. Ages 12 and under.
• Wednesday, April 22 at 11 a.m. – Baby Time — Story time for infants to 35 months of age with an adult. This story time is designed to engage children through movement, music, stories, and more.
• Wednesday, April 22 at 3:30 p.m. — Science Explorers: Detective Adventure! — Join us on an interactive adventure to rescue the kidnapped chicks from the Museum of Science and Industry. We’ll use fingerprinting, DNA analysis, meteorology, and our creativity to get to the bottom of this mystery! For scholars in 3rd – 5th grade.
• Thursday, April 23 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art — Ages 3-5. Bring your little artist to create their very own masterpiece! We may get a little messy so wear play clothes.
• Friday, April 24 at 3:30 p.m. – DIY – Do It Yourself — Unleash your creativity and build something awesome!

For additional information or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

South Suburban College, 15800 South State Street, South Holland

New Art Exhibits at SSC’s Dulgar Gallery

The Art & Design Department of SSC is pleased to announce new exhibitions in the galleries of the college’s Main Campus in South Holland:

• Robert Pollard, Brave and Old Fashioned – Through April 21

An exhibition of “fine” art by artist Robert Pollard is on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery through the closing reception on Tuesday, April 21st at 12:30 p.m.

• Michael Coakes, Illusions of Psyche – Through April 22

An exhibition of photographs by artist Michael Coakes is on display in the Photo Four Gallery through the closing reception on Wednesday, April 22nd at 12:00 noon.
The Lee Dulgar Gallery is located on the first floor near the college Atrium, and the Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries are located on the 4th floor in the Art & Design hallway. SSC Galleries are open at minimum Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. For more information, please call 708-596-2000, extension 2445 or visit www.ssc.edu/art.

‘Six Degrees of Separation’ – Opens Tuesday, April 21

The SSC Playhouse of South Suburban College closes the 2014-2015 season in April with a week-long run of John Guare’s Tony-Award and Pulitzer-Prize winning 1990 classic American play, ‘Six Degrees of Separation.’ Performance dates include Tuesday through Saturday evenings from April 21–25 at 8:00 p.m., with 2:00 p.m. matinees on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, 2015. Performances will take place in the Kindig Performing Arts Center at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland. John Guare’s ingenious web of intrigue exposes the twisted paths of fawning, wealthy social climbers who dare to slap the hand of God. By ripping off the mask of pretention, Guare shows us the hypocrisy of so-called sophisticates as he guides us through the depth and the meaning of our own lives. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and students. SSC students and employees get a buy one, get one free deal. Members of the armed forces, veterans, firefighters, and police officers with current, valid ID are welcomed free of charge. For more information or to reserve tickets, contact the 24/7 Box Office voicemail line at 708-210-5741 or e-mail [email protected].

SSC Annual Spring Gala – Friday, April 24

Each year the South Suburban College Foundation (SSCF) has an annual spring gala from which all proceeds benefit scholarship programs. The SSCF is now seeking support from local residents, friends and partners for Showcase 2015: Lighting the Path to Lifelong Learning, to be held on April 24 at Glenwoodie Golf Club, 19301 S. State Street, Glenwood. All proceeds from this year’s event will benefit college scholarships for returning adult students through the Foundation’s new Jane Ellen Stocker Adult Education Fund. With the cost of higher education on the rise and the level of state funding on the decline, students are finding it more and more difficult to afford a full-time college education. The SSC Foundation’s support is often critical for students to begin or continue their college education. Individuals and local businesses can support this mission while marketing themselves to approximately 300 guests through tax-deductible sponsorships and auction gifts. Tickets are also available for $125 each. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and features an open bar and plated dinner, silent auction, dancing, and the outstanding music of The Connexion. Sponsorship levels are as follows:

• $2,000 Platinum: Establish Scholarship, Top Sponsor Signage and Announced at event
• $1,000 Gold: Top Sponsor Signage and Announced at event
• $500 Silver: Sponsor Signage
• $300 Bronze: Sponsor Signage

Donations for this cause are fully tax deductible, and are an investment in the economic development of the south suburban region and a better future for thousands of residents who depend on SSC for their education and training. Checks can be made payable to “SSC Foundation” at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, IL 60473. Registrations and sponsorships via credit card can also be made online from www.ssc.edu/foundation or through PayPal transfers to [email protected]. The Foundation Staff will pick up donations for auction. For more information, please call 708-596-2000, extension 2463 or email [email protected]. The SSC Foundation is a philanthropic, not-for-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors composed of 27 of the south suburban area’s finest business, civic and community leaders. The SSCF has now awarded over $1,600,000 in scholarships since 1989. In 2014, over $100,000 in scholarship funds were awarded to SSC students.

Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

‘BioSynthesis’ Exhibition – Through May 9
‘BioSynthesis’, an art exhibition inspired by science, medicine and the human body, will run through May 9. ‘BioSynthesis’ features the work of Aviva Alter and Vesna Jovanovic from Chicago and Angela Dieffenbach from Peoria, IL. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 5 p.m.; Friday from noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-754-2601.

‘Journey: The Art of Healing’ Exhibition – Through May 9

‘Journey: the Art of Healing’ will run through May 9. ‘Journey’ is a regional juried exhibit featuring art in response to physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Juried by Renee Klyczek Nordstrom and Patric McCoy. Renee is an art therapist and USG studio artist and Patric is the director of Diasporal Rythms in Chicago, IL. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 5 p.m.; Friday from noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-754-2601.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

‘Cowspiracy: the Sustainability Secret’ – Friday, April 24

UUCC will screen the documentary film ‘Cowspiracy: the Sustainability Secret’ on Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. A lively discussion will follow the film screening. ‘Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret’ follows intrepid filmmaker Kip Andersen as he uncovers the most destructive industry facing the planet today – and investigates why the world’s leading environmental organizations are too afraid to talk about it. As eye-opening as Blackfish and as inspiring as An Inconvenient Truth, this shocking yet humorous documentary reveals the absolutely devastating environmental impact large-scale factory farming has on our planet, and offers a path to global sustainability for a growing population. The Huffington Post says: “[Andersen] pulls no punches and makes no apologies: ‘The future of our planet is being destroyed by this industry.’ Hard to argue with the data.”  The event is free and open to the public. Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. Optional donations appreciated. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

DePaul University, 2400 North Sheffield, Chicago

Public Talks by Activist Sister Helen Prejean, C.S.J. – Begin Thursday, April 23

Activist, author and anti-death penalty crusader Sister Helen Prejean, C.S.J., will offer a series of public talks throughout Chicago during her annual visit to DePaul University in late April. In addition to donating her personal archives to DePaul, Prejean travels to the university each spring to interact with young people and students. Her book “Dead Man Walking” helped fuel the anti-death penalty movement in the United States. Prejean began her prison ministry in 1981 when she dedicated her life to the poor of New Orleans. While living in a housing project, she became pen pals with convicted killer Patrick Sonnier who was sentenced to die in the electric chair of Louisiana’s Angola State Prison. Prejean often visited with him as his spiritual adviser. During those visits, she learned more about the Louisiana execution process and turned her experiences into the book “Dead Man Walking,” which became an award-winning movie. Read more about Sister Prejean’s connection with DePaul University at http://depaulne.ws/sisterh2011. View a video at http://depaulne.ws/sisterhvid.
Public Events

• Book talk and Q&A session

Harold Washington Library, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St.
April 23 from 6 to 8 p.m.
For additional information, call 312-747-4252, 312-747-8191 or visit http://bit.ly/1N4KnSO.

• St. Clement Parish speaking engagement

642 W. Deming Place
April 26, mass at 11:15 a.m. and luncheon at 12:30 p.m.
For additional information, contact [email protected].

• Sunday Night DePaul University student mass

St. Vincent de Paul Church, 1010 W. Webster Ave.
April 26 at 8:30 p.m.
For additional information, contact [email protected].

• DePaul Humanities Center event on mass incarceration

Cortelyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont St.
April 27 at 7 p.m.
For additional information, visit http://bit.ly/1ahJNPY.
Additional information about Sister Helen can be found at http://www.sisterhelen.org.

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

Freshman Fridays – Next Session – May 1

Freshman Fridays will be held at GSU on May 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission to a four-year university for highly qualified students has been streamlined at Governors State University with a new program called Freshman Fridays. Attending the session, providing the appropriate documentation and meeting the qualifications enables graduating seniors to apply to GSU and receive an instant admissions decision on-the-spot. The future GSU students can meet with academic and financial aid advisors, take a tour of the university and see what residence hall life is like. To qualify for direct admissions on Freshman Fridays, graduating seniors must meet the following criteria: have an unweighted GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale, have a minimum composite ACT score of 20 with at least a 20 in the English and math components and provide their official high school transcripts and official ACT scores (scores may be posted on the official transcript). Additionally, GSU will waive the application fee for qualified applicants attending Freshman Fridays. For more information, visit www.govst.edu/freshmanfridays or call 708-534-4490

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 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

Free Sales Skills Training – Friday, April 24

PSC is hosting a free sales presentation, intended to help attendees achieve next-level business growth. The Friday, April 24 presentation, “Sales Skills Training: Getting to the Next Level?” is being held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the PSC Conference Center, located on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. After a presentation by Don Jones from Growth Development Associates, Inc. (GDA), attendees can stay for the free webinar, which will share GDA’s techniques and strategies to help achieve business growth. More information is available at www.gdasalestrainingonline.com/PrairieState. The presentation and webinar are free and open to the public. To reserve a seat at the presentation, call 708-709-3750.

South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland

Communicating with Five Generations in the Workforce – Registration Required by Monday, April 27

SSC’s Business & Career Institute (BCI) presents a Breakfast with BCI Workshop titled Communicating with the Five Generations in the Workforce, on Wednesday, April 29, from 9:00 a.m. – 12 noon, with check-in and continental breakfast to begin at 8:30 a.m. This workshop will be held in Room 5230 of the Oak Forest Center and will be facilitated by Mary Erlain, President of Peak Development Strategies.
There are five generations currently employed in the American workforce, each with a set of differing experiences and styles that at times, can be in conflict. This workshop also encourages employees to explore ways to improve their communication by taking into account the generational diversity that exists in business today. It will focus on modes of communication, management, work ethic, technology, buying styles, and advertising. The cost of the workshop with continental breakfast is $49 per person with RSVP by April 27th or $59 at the door. Group rate discounts are also available. To register, please call 708-596-2000, extension 3254 or email [email protected]. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.

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 http://www.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 http://www.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: http://pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html

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 http://www.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.

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.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Qigong with Jim Kobus – Most Thursdays

UUCC will host Qigong with Jim Kobus on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the church. This class will usually meet on Thursdays but there may be exceptions, so if you are interested in attending, please send an email to Jim Kobus at [email protected] so he can notify you when class will NOT be held. There is a suggested donation of $5 per class. Please bring your own water. It is recommended that you eat dinner after class, not before. For additional information, please call 708-799-1925 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Green Events

DePaul University, 2400 North Sheffield, Chicago

Climate Change Lessons from the 17th Century – Monday, April 20

Modern climate change may seem unprecedented, yet historian Geoffrey Parker argues that the 17th century offered clues about the social, economic and political struggles caused by extreme weather patterns. Parker will deliver the annual Vincent de Paul lecture at DePaul University during Earth Week, April 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 2400 N. Sheffield Ave. The event is free and open to the public, but a ticket is required. Visit http://tinyurl.com/kr57dsz to register. Parker is the Andreas Dorpalen Professor of European History and an associate of the Mershon Center at The Ohio State University. He has written or co-written 39 books focusing on the social, political and military history of early modern Europe. In 2012 the Royal Dutch Academy recognized these achievements by awarding him its biennial Heineken Foundation Prize for History.  In his book “Global Crisis: War, Climate Change and Catastrophe in the Seventeenth Century,” Parker surveys the broad impact that long, harsh winters and cool, wet summers have had on human populations across the globe. Parker uses firsthand accounts and scientific evidence to examine how changing weather patterns caused famines, wars and political upheaval during that time. The book won the Society of Military History’s Distinguished Book Prize and a medal in 2014 from the British Academy for “a landmark academic achievement … which has transformed understanding of a particular subject.” The lecture is hosted by DePaul’s Office of Mission and Values and will be followed by a panel discussion with Elisabeth Moyer and the Rev. Edward Udovic, C.M.

Park Forest Environment Commission, 350 Victory Drive

Earth Day Celebration 2015 – Registration Required by Monday, April 20 – Limited Availability

The Park Forest Environment Commission invites you to come see what happens to your recycled items after they leave the curb at the Homewood Star Disposal Recycling facility. This state of the art sorting and processing operation is located in Homewood. This tour is free and open to the public HOWEVER it is limited to the first 20 people who register. Bus transportation will be provided from Park Forest Village Hall. We will board the bus beginning at 2 p.m. The bus will depart for the Homewood Disposal at 2:30 p.m. The bus will return to Village Hall at approximately 5 p.m. To register, contact the Recreation P& Parks Department at 708-748-2005 or email [email protected]. Registration is required no later than Monday, April 20.

Prairie State College (PSC), 220 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights

Reserve Your Garden Plot at PSC’s Community Garden – Reservations Now Being Taken

PSC’s Community Garden will be open for its fourth season this year. Are you an expert gardener needing more room to plant? Do you have little or no gardening experience? Reserve a garden plot at PSC’s Community Garden and make new friends while we share our gardening knowledge. Join the PSC Community Garden this year for just $25. We can accept cash, check or credit cards. Plots are on a first-come first-serve basis and payment must be received to reserve your space. You’ll have access to: A 4’ x 8’ garden plot; water; tools; mulch; and compost. To secure your plot for the 2015 growing season, you must remit payment and complete a garden contract and waiver of liability. Once you reserve your plot, you will begin to receive more information on your plot and the garden season. The weather determines our opening date. However, it will most likely be late-May or early-June. For additional information or to reserve your garden spot, contact Allessandra Cairo, Sustainability Coordinator, 708-709-3764 or email [email protected].

South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland

5th Annual Earth Awareness Day – Tuesday, April 28

SSC’s Sustainability Committee is pleased to announce its 5th annual Earth Awareness Day to be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Main Campus in South Holland. All of the Earth Awareness Day presentations and activities are completely free of charge and open to the public. The Cook County Environmental Control will also be hosting a prescription drug take-back throughout the day in the Atrium (including: liquids, inhalers and mercury thermometers; excluding: controlled substances, needles and syringes), and there will be an e-waste collection for used electronics and computers conducted by the Keeling Family Foundation and the VetTech.US Program.
The Earth Awareness Day presentation schedule is as follows:

• 9:30 a.m. Sustainability: What Sand Ridge Center has to Offer
• 11:00 a.m. The Tim Heppner Artist Studio
• 12:30 p.m. Growing Minds, Shrinking Runoff: Rain Gardens at SSC
• 2:00 p.m. AFT Speaker: Bluegreen Alliance

For additional information, please call 708-210-5757.

Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers

Come walk the trails with Wednesday Morning Walkers every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Follow the forest’s seasonal changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on two miles of Thorn Creek’s winding trails. Trails can be wet or icy or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. This weekly program is free and open to those 13 years of age and older. Registration is required two days before your first walk. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320.

Earth Day Celebration of a Life: Jon Mendelson – Saturday, April 25

On this Earth Day, the legacy of Jon Mendelson, the longtime GSU professor, field ecologist and chair of Thorn Creek’s Management Commission who died last November, will be honored at Earth Day Celebration of a Life: Jon Mendelson and Thorn Creek Woods, Saturday, April 25 from noon to 4 p.m. at Thorn Creek Nature Center. A dedicated champion of open space, and a force of nature in his own right, he worked tirelessly to acquire land for Thorn Creek Woods, and to study and protect local watersheds. Jon taught courses in ecology to generations of GSU students and was caretaker for the Preserve’s historic farm. Join us to celebrate Jon’s life with remembrances by family, colleagues and friends, displays highlighting his work in the woods, photographs, music and a hike to explore the habitat of the salamanders, frogs and toads he studies. Mendelson’s drawings, his crafted gourd mobiles, and his Thorn Creek Woods T-shirt design, with their whimsical takes on natural flora and fauna, will be on view. Enjoy a 3 mile hike on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. All are encouraged to bring or send to the nature center your memories, pictures, poems, drawings about Jon for a memory book. The displays and memory book will be on display at the nature center for a few months. Friends of Thorn Creek Woods established the CAPITAL FUND for improvements of the Nature Center building and in the Preserve itself over the years – vital projects for which there is no money in the preserve budget. Over $12,000 has been donated in Jon’s memory for rebuilding the south bridge. Friends is a tax-exempt 501(c) (3) organization. Thank you to all who have contributed. Please watch for parking signs. Earth Day is sponsored by Friends of Thorn Creek Woods. For more information, call 708-747-6320 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

Become a ‘Friend of Thorn Creek’

Friends of Thorn Creek Woods is the citizen activist group responsible in very large part for preserving and securing the dedication of the Thorn Creek Woods as an Illinois Nature Preserve. Friends’ volunteers continue to provide support in so many ways: staff the nature center on weekends; trail work; displays; leading hikes; special events; cleaning; pruning; artwork; music; research; and so on. Friends is a voice for the Woods and preservation values, donates funds for equipment and sponsors an annual meeting, Garlic Fest and Earth Day. Members receive a quarterly newsletter. Annual membership in Friends is $10. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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.

This & That

National Council of Negro Women – South Suburban Chicago Section

4th Annual Youth Empowerment Conference – Saturday, April 25

In supporting the national mission to support African American communities and their families, the National Council of Negro Women – South Suburban Chicago Section (NCNW-SSCS) is hosting its 4th annual Youth Empowerment Conference. The conference is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Prairie State College, 202 S. Halsted, Chicago, Heights from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. The theme is “Positive Profiling-Makes Lives Matter.” The conference will offer workshops that are interactive and designed to enhance youth ages 13 to 18 in planning and supporting their present and future endeavors and goals. Workshop topics include career readiness and presentation, health and fitness, proper handling and uses of technology, dating, and domestic violence, to name a few. The keynote speaker for the conference is Bishop Lance Davis, Senior Pastor of New Zion Covenant Church located in Dolton, Illinois. Bishop Davis is the founder and vice president of the South Suburban Faith-Based Initiative (SSFBI) and the founder and executive director of Building Our Own Communities, Inc. (BOOC) which is established in the United States and in Africa. He has also established Sankofa Ventures Management, Inc., an international company that is established in Ghana, West Africa to create job opportunities and to improve the overall living conditions. Other special guests include New Generation of Men, a steppers group from Thornton High School, District 205 Honors Band and other youth performers. All youth attending the conference are asked to complete a registration form and select three workshops from the eight workshops that will be presented. The conference will begin with a general session at 10:00 a.m. in the college’s auditorium. All middle, junior and high school students must have a chaperone or parent attend with them. For more information, please contact Cheronne M. Mayes, NCNW Program Chair 773-307-9497 or e-mail [email protected] or Sharice Horton, Youth Empowerment Conference chair at 773- 422-0799 or email [email protected].

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

2015 South Suburban CROP Hunger Walk – Sunday, April 26

The 2015 South Suburban CROP Hunger Walk will be held on Sunday, April 26. The walk begins and ends at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Avenue in Park Forest. Registration begins at 1 p.m. Opening ceremonies start at 1:35 p.m. The walk officially kicks-off at 2 p.m. CROP Hunger Walks are community-wide events sponsored by Church World Service and organized by religious groups, businesses, schools and others to raise funds to end hunger in the U.S. around the world. Additional details on the CROP Walk can be found at: Click for more details!

Park Forest Vehicle Stickers for 2015 – 2016 Year – New Stickers to be Displayed by May 1

Park Forest vehicle stickers for the 2015-2016 year are now on sale at Park Forest Village Hall. Vehicle stickers must be displayed prior to May 1 on all vehicles registered with the State of Illinois with a Park Forest address, even if that vehicle is not located in Park Forest. View full details on vehicle sticker sales by clicking on this link: Click for complete vehicle sticker information!

18th Annual Diversity Dinners – Thursday, April 23

On Thursday, April 23, 2015, the 18th Annual Diversity Dinners will be held across the south suburbs. On this evening, residents will open their homes to celebrate our rich diversity in small gatherings by sharing a meal and lively discussion, which can lead to greater understanding and some new friendships. The Diversity Dinners bring people of different races, religions, ethnicities, lifestyles and age together to enjoy a delicious dinner, discuss their common goals, understand differences, address misconceptions and offer solutions to strengthen our communities. This experience can open doors to enhanced appreciation for the unique mosaic of people, who live in the south suburbs. The event, funded by contributions from individuals, businesses and local organizations, is coordinated by the villages of Flossmoor, Park Forest, Homewood, Richton Park and Olympia Fields; Homewood-Flossmoor High School District 233, Rich Township High School District 227, Congresswoman Robin Kelly, League of Women Voters Homewood-Flossmoor Area, League of Women Voters Park Forest Area, Center for Multicultural Communities and the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI). The dinners are free for both the dinner hosts and guests. Although there is no charge for the dinner, each guest and host must register to participate. All guests must be at least 14 years old and the guests should be willing to go to the home assigned. Please plan to join other area residents on April 23th at the Diversity Dinners for a meaningful evening, as we celebrate one of the priceless assets of our community. For additional information, please visit the website at www.diversitydinners.com or contact Hildy Kingma, Village of Park Forest at 708-283-5622 or e-mail: [email protected].

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Part-Time Office Administrator Position at UUCC

Applications are currently being accepted for a part-time position of Office Administrator at Unitarian Universalist Community Church. Strong computer skills are a definite plus, especially experience with Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Word, Mail Merge, Outlook, and Excel. A demonstration of computer skills may be requested. Also, good communication skills, the ability to manage several projects at once, and a willingness to be a team player are necessary for the person who fills this position, which will represent UUCC to our members and the public. Someone local is preferred. Applicants should submit their resume and a cover letter addressed to the Board of Trustees, through the UUCC office. Contact: [email protected] or 708-481-5339.

Sacred Communication Workshops with Reverend Henrietta Byrd – May 9 & 23

UUCC will hold Sacred Communication Workshops with Reverend Henrietta Byrd on May 9 and 23. All Workshops will take place from noon to 3 p.m. at UUCC. These transformative Workshops will help you in identifying and dissolving mental and emotional blockages; learning to use your authentic voice; defining authentic friendships; and more. The events are free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Reverend Byrd at 312-593-4732.