Local

In and Around Park Forest for the Week of May 6, 2018

Spring beauty
The beauty of spring (Source: YouTube)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF) —The Village of Park Forest and the Commission on Human Relations will be hosting a job fair on Saturday, May 12 Park Forest Village Hall. Those seeking jobs are asked to “dress to impress,” bring at least 20 copies of their resume and show up “ready to Interview.” You’ll find additional information about the job fair, as well as where you can get some free business attire if needed, in the ‘This & That’ section.

Don’t forget that Sunday, May 13 is Mother’s Day, a celebration honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. Be sure to make plans to do something special for all the mothers in your family.

Be sure to check out all the other events and activities taking place In & Around Park Forest. Have a great week!

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Events and activities featured in ‘In and Around Park Forest’ take place in Park Forest, the surrounding suburbs and locations that are just a short drive or train ride away. You’ll find that many of these events are free or of a nominal charge.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in the community that you would like published, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details no later than 5 p.m. on Friday.  Thank you.

Administration — Village of Park Forest

Village Board Meeting – Monday, May 7

The Village of Park Forest Board will meet on Monday, May 7 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held 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). 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 May 6:

  • Tuesday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
  • Tuesday, May 8 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group

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

Park Forest Budget Review Sessions — May and June Schedule

The Village of Park Forest has approved the budget review schedule for the proposed 2018-19 budget. Residents are welcome to attend any or all of the upcoming budget review sessions at Village Hall. The schedule is as follows:

Monday, May 7 at 7 p.m.

Board/Public Introduction of Budget at Board Meeting

Monday, May 14 at 6 p.m.

  • Introduction and Overview
  • Financial Summary & Challenges
  • Fire Department — Vehicle Service
  • Police Department — Vehicle Services

Tuesday, May 15 6 p.m.

Public Works Department

  • MFT
  • Water
  • Sewer
  • Municipal Parking
  • Refuse
  • Vehicle Services

Wednesday, May 16 at 6 p.m.

Recreation & Parks

  • Building & Grounds
  • Aqua Center
  • Tennis & Health Club
  • Community Health
  • Capital Projects
  • Vehicle Services

Community Development

Housing

Thursday, May 24 at 6 p.m.

Economic Development

  • DownTown
  • Capital Projects
  • Sustainability
  • TIF

Administration/Finance

  • Manager’s Office
  • Boards and Commissions
  • Legal
  • Finance
  • Bond Retirement
  • Retirement Funds
  • Other

Monday, June 4 at 7 p.m.

Public Hearing/Public Presentation/First Reading

Monday, June 18 at 7 p.m. 

Budget Adoption

Hydrant Flushing Continues – Through May 9

Park Forest’s Department of Public Works will conduct hydrant flushing through May 9, beginning at 9 a.m., weekdays only. No flushing will be done on the weekends. Hydrants are flushed to ensure that water does not stagnate in the system. During flushing, your water may become discolored from iron (rust) in the pipes. There are no known health risks associated with consuming discolored water caused from iron (rust) in the pipes, but Public Works recommends that you refrain from using discolored water until it runs clear. It is also recommended that you not wash clothes when your area is being flushed. If your laundry becomes discolored, keep the items wet and pick-up a free bottle of Red-B-Gone at Village Hall. Flushing signs will be placed throughout neighborhoods to alert you of when an area is to be flushed. Flushing begins in the north part of town (near the intersection of Route 30 and Orchard Drive) and proceeds south. Keep up with the progress of crews at www.villageofparkforest.com/hydrantflushing to best determine when your area will be flushed, or call 708-503-7702 for any additional questions or water quality concerns.

Street Sweeping – Through May 11

Street sweeping in Park Forest is underway and will last approximately 10 days. The street sweeper normally begins in the north part of Park Forest and continues south. The number of streets cleaned each day depends on the amount of leaves and/or debris needing removal as well as contractor work force that day and weather conditions. Residents are asked to remove their cars from the streets during the week of street sweeping in order for the most effective cleaning of the streets to take place. Residents are also reminded that raking or blowing leaves, grass, or debris into the street is strictly prohibited. Leaves clog Village storm sewers resulting in flooded streets. Fines will be issued for any individual witnessed raking or blowing leaves, grass, or debris into the street. Click for more on street sweeping in Park Forest

Arts & Entertainment

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

Shining Star, Hollywood Swinging, and Comedy by B Cole – Saturday, May 12

A Pre Mother’s Day Celebration featuring old school music and comedy will take place on Saturday, May 12 at 7 p.m. The event features the number one Earth, Wind, & Fire Tribute Band Shining Star and Kool and the Gang Tribute Band Hollywood Swinging. Also enjoy the sounds of Smokey Robinson by Warren Julian. With live performance from BET’s own B Cole. Tickets are $25 and $50. A portion of the proceeds will go to Christopher R. Gregoire Scholarship and Memorial. This is a rental event and not eligible for flex pass pricing or regular discounts. Buy tickets here. For additional information, call 708-534-5000.

Crete Public Library District, 1177 North Main Street

The following events are scheduled at the Crete Public Library District the week of May 6:

  • Monday, May 7 at 7 p.m. – Adult Writing Group – Open to beginning and experienced writers. The topic is Reading Like a Writer.
  • Monday, May 7 at 7 p.m. – Know the Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s – Find out how to recognize the signs in yourself and others and how early detection can make a difference. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association.
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 7 p.m. – Canine Massage for Pet Parents – Learn the benefits of massage and a few techniques for massaging your dog. For adults only, leave pets at home. Register.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. – CRAVE Club – Prepare and bring a dish based on this month’s theme of recipes from Mom or Grandma, then share samples with club members.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 7 p.m. – Knot Another Ball of Yarn! Crochet Group – Learn to crochet or bring your own crochet to work on in this twice a month group.
  • Friday, May 11 at 2 p.m. – Friday Afternoon Films – Showing The Theory of Everything with captions.
  • Friday, May 11 at 3 p.m. – Anime Club – Anime screenings, trivia contests, and manga-inspired games. For ages 12+.

For more information or to register for a program, please call the Crete Public Library at 708-672-8017 or visit www.cretelibrary.org.

DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 East Balbo Drive, Chicago

Dr. Seuss’ ‘The Cat in the Hat’ – Opens Sunday, May 6

Bright lights, loud noises and shushes from the audience can make the theatre an unwelcoming place for children with sensory sensitivities. To soften those challenges, The Theatre School at DePaul University is offering a sensory-friendly performance of Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat” on May 6 at 2 p.m. at the Merle Reskin Theatre in Chicago’s South Loop. Regular performances of the play run through May 26. The sensory-friendly performance will incorporate modifications making it more accessible to children with autism or sensory sensitivities. Changes include dim, instead of dark, house lights. In addition, coordinators and performers will warn sensory-sensitive audience members in advance of any strobe lights, sudden noises, or loud effects, or they will simply eliminate them. DePaul faculty and staff also created a quiet room with a puzzle rug and beanbag chairs where children can take a break. Faculty from DePaul’s College of Education coordinated with The Theatre School to create a safe space in the theatre. “The Cat in the Hat” is onstage through May 26. Performances are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m., and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Special Friday performances will occur April 27 and May 11 at 10 a.m. There is no May 5 performance. The show is recommended for ages 4 and older. The May 10 performance will be audio described. The May 11 and 12 performances will be interpreted in American Sign Language. Call TTY: 773-325-7975 for more information.  A post-show discussion will follow the May 19 performance. Details are available at http://bit.ly/DPUcatinhat. Tickets are $10. Subscriptions and group rates for 15 or more people are available. DePaul employees, alumni and college students receive a discount (with ID). Active military and their families receive a discount (with ID). Tickets are available at http://theatre.depaul.edu or by calling the box office at 312-922-1999.

DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine Avenue, Chicago

‘Growing Up Blue’ – Tickets Now on Sale

When North Carolina defined gender access to public bathrooms in 2016, people protested, corporations yanked expansion plans in the state, sports organizations canceled tournaments and celebrities boycotted. Chloë Orlando, a student in The Theatre School at DePaul University, wrote a play.
What began as a one-act class assignment for Orlando is now “Growing Up Blue,” a play having its world premiere at The Theatre School on May 18. Orlando, who graduates this year with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in playwriting and a bachelor’s degree in English, learned her play was one of three selected as part of the school’s New Playwrights Series just months after North Carolina repealed its controversial law in 2017. “Growing Up Blue” tells the story of Blue Johnson, a 13-year-old assigned male, who inadvertently disrupts the peace of Hometown by announcing at a school assembly that he wants to be a mother. Blue’s family, at the center of a reality show, also struggles with identity issues. “Growing Up Blue” opens May 18 and runs through May 26. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. A post-show discussion will take place following the May 20 and 24 performances. In addition, the May 24 performance will be interpreted in American Sign Language. The May 26 performance will offer an audio description. Tickets are $15 with discounts for DePaul students and employees. Tickets are available online at https://bit.ly/2rfHZlS or by calling the box office at 773-325-7900.

Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road

‘Are You Still Here Party and Ice Cream Social’ – Registration Required

The Park Forest and Matteson Historical Societies will host its ‘Are You Still Here Party and Ice Cream Social’ on Sunday, May 20 beginning at 2:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive in DownTown Park Forest. Park Forest’s own Neil Whitham will perform his ‘Back to the Past’ musical program covering 1890 through 1960. This event is a “thank you” to members, friends and especially Star Volunteers who all help keep both groups going. The event is free and open to the public but registration is required in order to ensure that there are enough supplies on hand for the celebration. For additional information or to register, call Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252 or Lois Blume at 708-748-7914.

Park Forest House Museum ‘Boomer Toys & Dolls’ Exhibit – Through Mid-July

The Park Forest House Museum’s “Boomer Toys & Dolls” Exhibit will be up through mid-July. Come see the wonderful selection of toys, games and dolls we have assembled for you to enjoy. Photographs, scrapbooks and sales brochures from the Park Forest Local History Collection and Archive are on display. Park Forest move-ins began 70 years ago in late August 2018. Admission is Adults $5; children 12 and under free.  Park in the small lot by the flagpole and knock on the classroom door next to the museum sign. A guide will tell village history, and social and fashion trends of the era. The Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday, 1 to 3:30 p.m. and by appointment. For additional information or to schedule a tour, please call Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252, or Michael Gans at 708-305-3308 or visit: www.parkforesthistory.org.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of May 6:

  • Sunday, May 6 at 2 p.m. – Drop In Art Day — Drop in to kids’ zone and see what we are creating today!
  • Monday, May 7 at 11 a.m. –Story Time Stars — Rise and Shine Little Movers. Parents, jump start your day with stories and a craft.
  • Monday, May 7 at 3:30 p.m. – Art Palooza — We’re EXPLODING with Creativity! Join us each week as we explore/craft different elements of Art. For ages 12 and under.
  • Monday, May 7 at 4 p.m. – All Day Teen Drop Ins — Join us for a spur-of-the-moment activity in Teen Tech Zone!
  • Monday, May 7 at 4 p.m. – Explore This World of Wonder — Drop in to the Explore space and discover something new.
  • Tuesday, May 8 at 12:30 p.m. — Android Phone Basics — Learn the basics of navigating an Android Smartphone. Registration Required.
  • Tuesday, May 8 at 3:30 p.m. – Kids Art Studio — Drop in and discover your inner artist with one of our guided projects. For ages 12 and under.
  • Tuesday, May 8 at 4 p.m. – Color-Rama! Coloring Circle — Take a load off before starting your homework! Learn different media of art and show your creativity with other teens.
  • Tuesday, May 8 at 6 p.m. – Night Time Story Time – Jam Out in your PJ’s with stories, crafts, music and more! For ages 12 and under.
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 11 a.m. – Baby Time — Babies and their parents or caregivers are invited to read, sing and grow in this weekly story time. This program is geared toward babies 0 – 36 months with an accompanying adult. This is the perfect time for families to bond with their child/children.
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 3:30 p.m. – Kids Color Me Happy — Travel to a world of relaxation for kids. Lose yourself in patterns, curved flowers or even runaway stems. Color yourself Happy in our kids’ coloring circle. For ages 12 and under.
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 4 p.m. – Adult Coloring — Join us as we spend some time unwinding and relaxing with adult coloring books.
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 4 p.m. – All Day Teen Drop Ins — Join us for a spur-of-the-moment activity in Teen Tech Zone!
  • Wednesday, May 9 at 6:30 p.m. – Writers’ Workshop — Want to improve your skills as a writer? Interested in sharing your ideas or written work with others? Come to the Park Forest Library and join other creators in our bi-monthly writers’ group, led by James Pressler, for all your writing wishes. Writers of all skill levels are welcomed.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 11 p.m. – Toddler Art — Bring your imagination and creativity to bring out your inner Picasso through art projects and more. Some projects may involve paint. Ages 3-5.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 12:30 p.m. – Family Movie Matinee —  Drop in for a Movie Surprise.
    Some films are rated: G, PG or PG 13. All Are Welcome.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 3:30 p.m. – Drawing Theory — Do you enjoy Drawing and Sketching? Learn how to draw your favorite animations and more. For ages 12 and under.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 4 p.m. – All Day Teen Drop Ins — Join us for a spur-of-the-moment activity in Teen Tech Zone!
  • Thursday, May 10 at 5 p.m. — Android Phone Basics — Learn the basics of navigating an Android Smartphone. Registration Required.
  • Thursday, May 10 at 6 p.m. – PJ Storytime — Share special moments with your child through stories, crafts, and more. For ages 12 and under.
  • Friday, May 11 at 3:30 p.m. – Fun Friday with Checkers — Join the fun with an old fashion game of checkers! Bring a friend or make a new one. For ages 12 and under.
  • Friday, May 11 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Game Day — Show off your competitive side with your friends! From board games to video games, there will be plenty of fun.
  • Saturday, May 12 at 1 p.m. – Kids Make and Take — Drop in the kids’ zone and make something for Mom or for someone special.

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

Library Closure – Sunday, May 13

The Park Forest Library will be closed on Sunday, May 13. For additional information, call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

‘Expressions: 2018 Exhibition of Student Art’ – Through Thursday, May 17

‘Expressions: 2018 Exhibition of Student Art’ will run at the Christopher Art Gallery through Thursday, May 17. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The exhibit features works in all media, highlighting the best of PSC student art. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m.to 7 p.m. and by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment to view the exhibit, phone 708- 709-3636 or visit www.prairiestate.edu/christopher-art-gallery.

Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Lunch at the Senior Center – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

The Rich Township Senior Center will be serving lunch at 12 Noon, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Rich Township School District 227 is preparing delicious meals for a cost of $3.00. You MUST make your reservation two days in advance by stopping in, or calling 708-748-5454. Lunch Menu examples: Chicken, Hamburger, Turkey Sandwich, all served with Soup & Chips.  Also we have Pasta dishes, side salads, desserts. Optional: Chef Salad. All served with Lemonade.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Heartland: Images of Small Town and Rural Midwest’ – Through June 2

Tall Grass’ exhibit ‘Heartland: Images of Small Town and Rural Midwest’ will run through June 2. The exhibit is free and open to the public. ‘Heartland’ is a display of images of and about life in and around small towns, farms, and rural areas. Images might represent historic buildings, railway stations, gas stations, grain elevators, stores, farms, barns, landscapes, wide open spaces and skies, fields, crops, machines, animals, fairs, parades, people working, celebrations, special events.  Gallery hours are 11a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. For additional information or to schedule an appointment to view the exhibit, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

The Drama Group, 330 West 202nd Street, Chicago Heights

‘Vanya & Sonya & Masha & Spike’ – Through Sunday, May 13

The Drama Group is will present ‘Vanya & Sonya & Masha & Spike,’ a zany comedy by Christopher Durang and directed by Mary Ellen Fawk. Middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia share a home in Bucks County, PA, where they bicker and complain about the circumstances of their lives.  Suddenly, their movie-star sister, Masha, swoops in with her new boy toy, Spike.  Old resentments flare up, eventually leading to threats to sell the house.  Also on the scene are sassy maid Cassandra, who can predict the future, and a lovely young aspiring actress named Nina, whose prettiness somewhat worries the imperious Masha. Some of the show’s elements were derived from works of Anton Chekov, including several character names, the play’s setting in a cherry orchard and the theme of the possible loss of an ancestral home. Performances will be held at The Drama Group’s Milord Studio Theatre on May 10, 11 & 12 at 7:30 p.m. and matinees on May 6 & 13 at 2:00 p.m.  Tickets are $20 for adults; $19 for seniors and $15 for students with ID. Group discount rates are also available. Good seats are available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 708-755-3444 or online here. For additional information, call 708-755-3444 or visit: www.dramagroup.org.

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

Tricia Alexander and Amelia Stamsta to Appear at Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse — Saturday, May 12

Tricia Alexander and Amelia Stamsta will perform at Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse on Saturday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. Due to ongoing repairs being done at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), the event will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Avenue in Park Forest. Come out to celebrate with two outstanding women musicians for our last show of this season. Edgar’s Place favorite Tricia Alexander has performed a number of times over the years for us, as well as conducting services at our UUCC church and other churches, and is also involved in the healing arts. Amelia Stamsta is a powerful new voice in the folk music world. It’s an honor to have these two women on the Edgar’s stage, and just in time for Mother’s Day! Admission is $15 – at the door – Cash only please. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org

Rainbow Café to Screen Movie ‘Call Me By Your Name’ – Friday, May 18th

The Rainbow Café will meet on Friday, May 18th at 6:30 p.m. Due to ongoing repairs being done at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), the event will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Avenue in Park Forest. The movie ‘Call Me By Your Name’ will be screened. The movie tells the story of Elio, a precocious 17 year old, spends his days during the summer of 1983 in his family’s Italian villa transcribing and playing classical music, reading, and flirting with his friend Marzia. One day Oliver, a charming American scholar, arrives as the annual summer intern. Tasked with helping Elio’s father, an eminent professor. Slip and Oliver discover the heady beauty of awakening desire over the course of a summer that will alter their lives forever. Rainbow Café is a social gathering where LGBTQ adults and their partners and friends are able to socialize outside of the usual bars. The Café is open every 3rd Friday of the month from 6:30-10:30 pm. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Film starts around 7 pm. Soft drinks and snacks are served. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org

Immigrant Prisons Film Series to be Screened – Friday, May 25

The ‘Immigrant Prisons series’ from Brave New Films will be screen on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. A discussion will follow the screening. Due to ongoing repairs being done at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), the event will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Avenue in Park Forest. The film screening is free and open to the public. The short films look at the immigrant prison industry and how it profits off the detention and suffering of people and examines issues related to immigration in the US that impact undocumented and refugee communities, including DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. Bring a snack to share if desired. Donations appreciated. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

DePaul University Student Center, 2250 North Sheffield Avenue, Room 120, Chicago

Perception vs. Reality Programs – Through May 17

Identity, perception and illness round out the discussions of the DePaul Humanities Center’s Spring 2018 programs as the center continues to dissect its “fake” theme. Events are free and open to the public. Each program will be held in the DePaul Student Center at 2250 N. Sheffield Ave., Room 120.

Fake 6: Truly Sick? Truly Well?
May 7 — 5:30-7 p.m. Screening of “Mommy Dead and Dearest”
7-8:30 p.m. Discussion and performances

What does it mean to be sick, healthy, disabled, or ill? This program starts with a screening of Erin Lee Car’s documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest” about the murder of Dee Blanchard by her daughter Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who suffered from Munchausen by proxy syndrome inflicted by her mother. Speakers include:

  • Cicely Boggan, an advocate for young, deaf children, will perform poetry in American Sign Language and argue that deafness is not a disability.
  • Allen J. Frances, psychiatrist and chair of the task force that produced the fourth revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental illness, will address the politics of medical diagnosis.

Annual Humanities Laureate Award
May 17 — 7-8:30 p.m.

The DePaul Humanities Center each year presents its annual Humanities Laureate Award to an individual or individuals or community that best represents the heart of the humanities. Previous recipients include artist John Currin, London stop motion filmmakers Stephen and Timothy Quay and the Natives at Standing Rock. The 2017-18 award will be announced in coming weeks.

DePaul University Humanities Center aims to create visibility of the work in the arts and humanities, and foster discussion among the greater community. Learn more about the center and upcoming events at http://bit.ly/DPUHmCtr.

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.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

Summer 2018 Registration – Now in Progress

Summer registration is now open at PSC. Students looking to start, continue or complete their degree or certificate, or for those who want to get ahead or take classes to enhance their skills, can now register for five- or eight- week credit sessions or select from a number of non-credit courses this summer. To accommodate busy schedules, PSC offers daytime, evening and online courses, with flexible start times. The eight-week credit session runs from May 29 through July 19.  The first five-week credit courses begin May 29 and end June 28.The second five-week credit summer session runs from July 2 through Aug. 2. To register for credit courses, new students must complete an enrollment application in person at the college, located at 202 S. Halsted St., in Chicago Heights, or online at www.prairiestate.edu by selecting Apply, Register, Pay. Current students can register for credit courses in person or online on WebAdvisor. Guest students who are seeking credit courses are encouraged to enroll in summer courses at PSC. This gives students the opportunity to fulfill general education requirements at a fraction of the cost, and they can transfer the credits back to their home college. Available courses include English, speech, biology, chemistry, history, math and more. For more information, visit www.prairiestate.edu/summeronly.  High school students who plan to go away in the fall can get ahead by taking classes this summer and then transferring the credits to their college or university. PSC also offers non-credit courses that begin throughout the summer. Students can register for non-credit courses online or in person. To register online via Instant Enrollment, go to prairiestate.edu, select Apply, Register, Pay, and then choose How to Enroll. Another option is to complete the registration form available online or in the back of the printed non-credit course schedule. Students also can register for non-credit courses in person at the Matteson Area Center (MAC), located at 4821 Southwick Drive in Matteson, or in the Enrollment Services Office on the PSC main campus. The MAC is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All available summer courses are listed online at www.prairiestate.edu/courseschedule. Print copies are available by completing the request form online. Non-credit courses also are listed in the 2018 non-credit course schedule. Copies can be found on the main campus and at the MAC or online at www.prairiestate.edu/noncredit.

Kids@College Summer Program – Registration Now in Progress

Are you looking for fun activities to keep your kids busy this summer? Let learning and fun continue year round at Prairie State College (PSC). The Kids@College Summer Program at PSC is designed to enhance the problem solving skills of children ages 5 through 10. Participants will use fun, hands-on, iSTEAM based activities that encourage creativity in the areas of inventions, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. The program will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, from June 25 through Aug. 9, at the college’s Matteson Area Center, located at 4821 Southwick Drive in Matteson. There will be no programming during the week of July 2. Kids@College at PSC offers six weeks of fun-filled learning opportunities including an engaging curriculum taught by certified teachers. Each week is tailored to intrigue students and provide them with a chance to explore, build and learn. Half- and full- day options are available. Cost per child for full day is $138 a week, half day is $75 a week, and a 6-week, full-day deal is offered for $725. Payment plan options and before and after care are available.  For more information about the Kids@College program, visit www.prairiestate.edu/kids, call 708- 709-3750 or email [email protected].

20th Annual Summer Speech Camp for High School Students – Registration Now in Progress

PSC is hosting its 20th Annual Summer Speech Camp, July 9 through July 19, 2018. The camp meets from 1:15 to 5:15 p.m., Monday through Thursday, on PSC’s main campus in Chicago Heights. The camp is intended to prepare high school varsity and novice speech team members for fall competition. Participants will get the opportunity to enhance their skills through interactive learning with trained professionals during the summer. Week one will focus on interpretation, finding material, cutting material and discovering delivery advantages. Week two will cover public speaking, generating ideas, humor and citing sources. During week three, students will be practicing, polishing and performing. The camp will conclude with a performance showcase and awards presentation. Registration for the camp is underway. The cost is $300 per student. For more information or to apply, visit www.prairiestate.edu/speechcamp, or contact Assistant Professor Dana Trunnell at 708-709-3798 or email [email protected]; or Associate Professor Joshua Green at 708- 709-2958 or [email protected].

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

Community Job Fair – Tuesday, May 22

SSC and Thornton Township are partnering to offer a 2018 Community Job Fair on Tuesday, May 22 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. This free event is open to the public and will be held in the South Suburban College Fitness Center at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. SSC and Thornton Township invite all job seekers to participate at this special event. For your convenience, free resume writing assistance will also be offered. The following employers/service organizations have committed to attend to date, and more are expected to confirm soon:

160 Driving Academy
ABF Freight
Advocate Health Care
Allied Universal Security
AMTRAK
Blommer Chocolate Company
Blue Cap
Bria of River Oaks
Childcare Careers
Command Center
Cook County Health & Hospital System
CTF Illinois
DeVry University
Dot Foods, Inc.
Ed Miniat LLC
Elite Staffing
Friends of the Forest
GCA
Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel
Illiana Financial Credit Union
Integrity Trade Services
JMJ Talent Solutions and Staffing
Manor Care Health Services
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
Mi-Jack Products
Pace Suburban Bus
Positive Connections/ STA
Professional Transportation Inc.
Roseland Community Hospital
Safety Service Systems Inc.
Schillings
Schneider

The Community Job Fair is an excellent opportunity for employers to recruit upcoming SSC graduates and alumni, current students, and community residents. For more information please call Diamond Wright at 708-210-5748 or email: [email protected]. Para Información En Español Llame: 708-210-5740.

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.

Green Events

Prairie State College (PSC) Matteson Area Center, 4821 Southwick Drive, Matteson

Earth Day Celebration for Kids – Saturday, May 12

In recognition of Earth Day 2018, PSC is hosting a free community event designed for children ages four to 13. The Saturday, May 12 event is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. at the college’s Matteson Area Center (MAC) in Matteson. Attendees will get the opportunity to participate in activities and experiments centered around environmental education, as well as science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Children also will be able to use their imaginations with crafts and art projects to take home. If weather permits, several of the day’s activities will be held outdoors. Healthy snacks will be provided. The event will highlight the themes from the Kids@College iSTEAM summer program, which is scheduled at the MAC from June 25 through Aug. 9. The Earth Day celebration represents PSC’s commitment to improve and protect the environment while promoting fiscal and social responsibility. To register for the Earth Day event, call 708-709-3750 or email [email protected], and include the child’s name and age. Multiple children can be registered in one email. For more information about the PSC Kids@College summer program, visit www.prairiestate.edu/previewpsc.

Sauk-Calumet Sierra Club Group, Matteson

Discussion of Will County Truck Traffic – Monday, May 14

The next meeting of the Sauk-Calumet Sierra Club Group will be on Monday, May 14th, at the Frankfort Public Library, 21119 Pfeiffer Rd. in Frankfort at 7:15 pm.  This will be our last meeting until we meet again in September. Sierra Club’s Will County Conservation Organizer Ann Baskerville will address the impact of the expanding profusion of huge warehouses in Will County and the resulting freight traffic, noise and smog, pollution and road congestion. All meetings are open to members and the general public.  For additional information or for questions about the Club and its activities email Patrick Coffey at [email protected].

Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Park Forest

Nature Education Programs at Thorn Creek Nature Center

Calling all schools, home school groups, day cares, preschools, youth, adult and family groups! Nature Education Programs are offered at Thorn Creek Nature Center throughout the year where your group can discover the plants and animals of Thorn Creek Woods. These Nature Education Programs are sponsored by the Thorn Creek Audubon Society. The Audubon Society and the Thorn Creek Nature Center announce their new Partnership for Programming to further the Society’s environmental education mission and give valuable assistance to Thorn Creek Nature Center in providing nature programming for groups of area children and adults. Some of the nature education programs offered this year include Birding by Sight and Sound, Creek Walk (the world of aquatic insects and metamorphosis), Trees Big and Small (identification by leaves and bark), Insects (what makes an insect unique), the Web of Life (interdependence of producers, consumers, predators and decomposers), Soils Hike (how soil fuels and supports life), and Night Hikes. On the Fall Color Hike learn why leaves change colors and what trees do to prepare for the long months of winter. Discover clues to wild animals’ identities and behavior by trails and trails in Wild Animal Tracks. Make your own track replica. On Vixen’s Trek you are the fox following your daily routines on Thorn Creek trails. Or visit the Historic Farm in the woods to explore an early 1900’s woodland farm. Groups can also arrange for a naturalist to come to your location for programs such as Wild Animal Tracks, Web of Life, Woodland Wildflowers, Soils, History of Thorn Creek Woods, and the like. The new partnership has already collaborated in sponsoring three programs: the Learn 70 Birds by Spring class, which runs from January through March; the Great Backyard Bird Count Open House that was held in February; and the Build a Gourd Birdhouse sessions to be held in March.  For information about Thorn Creek Audubon Society membership, events and projects: Thorn Creek Audubon Society, P. O. Box 895, Park Forest, Il 60466, or www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

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 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

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 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

Will County Green, 58 East Clinton Street, Joliet

Recycling in the South Suburbs — Ongoing

Have old electronics, TVs or computer monitors sitting around your house gathering dust? Want to get rid of them for free? There are places in Will County where you can properly dispose of them. Each recycling location will accept only 2 televisions per vehicle. ID will be required to prove that you are a Will County resident. However, Park Forest residents residing in either Will OR Cook Counties may participate.

Recycling Locations

Richton Park Donation Drop Spot Peotone Police Department New Lenox Township
Richton Park Village Hall 208 E. Main Street 1100 S. Cedar Road
4455 Sauk Trail (Located along Latonia Lane) 1st & 3rd Wednesdays 2nd & 4th Wednesdays
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (lines will be cut off at 7 p.m.) 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (lines will be cut off at 7 p.m.
7 days a week Closed on Holidays Closed on Holidays

For additional information, visit www.countygreen.com.

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.

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.

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].

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

Yoga Classes by Karen Nielsen – Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays

Yoga classes by Karen Nielsen are available at UUCC on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  No reservations needed.  Drop-in fee is $10 per class and the 6th one is free.  For additional information, call 708-755-3577 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

This & That

Chicago Cares, 2 North Riverside Plaza, Suite 1800, Chicago

25th Annual Serve-a-thon, the City’s Largest Day of Service – Registration Now in Progress

Chicago Cares, the city’s largest volunteer organization, is celebrating a milestone in 2018 as it kicks-off registration for its 25th Annual Serve-a-thon (SAT). Those looking to make an impact in communities throughout Chicago can sign up to fill one of 5,000 volunteer spots for the June 23rd SAT activities. The Chicago Cares volunteer experience is a powerful tool for bringing people together from all walks of life to build empathy and understanding for one another and their communities. More than 5,000 volunteers will work together in unity to serve communities in need throughout the city as part of the annual SAT They will be painting, planting, cleaning, doing light construction and other hands-on work at dozens of elementary and public high schools in the Chicago Public School system. By choosing to volunteer during the Chicago Cares 25th Annual Serve-a-thon, volunteers will have the chance to come together across lines of difference and create opportunities to build goodwill and better communities. Those looking to volunteer should head to event.ChicagoCares.org where they can register. Volunteers will start their morning on the 23rd at Daley Plaza before heading out on school buses to their volunteer destination for the day. After their activities have come to an end, they will head back to Daley Plaza for a volunteer appreciation party. For more than 25 years, Chicago Cares has engaged with over 600,000 volunteers through 200 monthly programs, corporate programming and annual events. Chicago Cares has been making an impact on communities in need thanks to the generous support of volunteers and corporate sponsors, including this year’s SAT sponsors – PepsiCo, GCM Grosvenor, Winston & Strawn LLP, Discover Financial Services, IRI, and Epsilon Conversant.

Marian Catholic High School, 700 South Ashland, Chicago Heights

Warrior Wrestling – Friday, May 11

Marian Catholic will welcome professional wrestling stars from around the world for Warrior Wrestling on Friday, May 11th. The wrestling event will serve as a fundraiser for scholarships for students as well as a “fun-raiser” for the school community and surrounding area of the South Suburbs and Northwest Indiana, the school said in a release. The event will be family-friendly in content, and fans of all ages are welcome. Former WWE World Champions Alberto El Patron (Del Rio) and Jack Swagger will headline the evening’s card, which will also feature several other former-WWE stars including Matt Sydal (Evan Bourne), James Ellsworth, Hornswoggle, and Ricardo Rodriguez. Current stars of North America’s second most popular wrestling program – Impact Wrestling on PopTV –will also feature into the night’s action when Moose, oVe, DJZ, and Chelsea Green (Laurel Van Ness) take the ring in various matches. Several famed masked luchadores are traveling to Chicago Heights from Mexico specifically for this event. Among them are El Hijo de Dos Caras, El Hijo del Fantasma, Rey Fenix, and Penta El Cero Miedo. Top female competitors will also be in action, including third generation wrestler Tessa Blanchard, daughter of famed grappler Tully Blanchard, and Impact Wrestling Champion Chelsea Green (Laurel Van Ness). National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) champion Nick Aldis will also compete in the ring. Card subject to change. Tickets for the event can be purchased online at www.warriorwrestling.net. Prices range from $25 for general admission bleacher seats to $75 for first row ringside seats. Bell time is 7:30 on May 11th with doors opening to the public at 6:30. A VIP Fan Fest will take place before the show from 5:45 to 7:15. The VIP Fan Fest will allow attendees to meet the wrestlers as well as take pictures and receive autographs. All autographs and pictures are free in the Fan Fest, and $20 admission tickets to the Fest are also available through the Warrior Wrestling website. Food and concessions will be available for purchase, and for those fans over 21, several local breweries will have their craft beer on tap. All proceeds from the event go to benefit scholarships for local students to attend Marian Catholic High School. For additional information, visit www.marianchs.com.

Park Forest Economic Development and Planning Department

Southland Small Business Networking Mix — Friday, May 18

The Village of Park Forest’s Economic Development and Planning Department will host the Southland Small Business Networking Mix on Friday, May 18 at Dining on the Green Banquet Hall, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest (View Map). The event is open to all small business people. A complimentary full breakfast will be provided.

Agenda

Event takes place from 7:45 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

  • Free breakfast buffet and informal networking starts 7:45 a.m. to 8:25 a.m.
  • Activities start at 8:25 a.m. until 9:30 a.m.

Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227, will give a brief presentation on building relationships with employers and ways high school students can add value to your business. There will also be several interactive activities including speed networking.  Small giveaways will be handed out activity winners. In addition, the person who brings the most guests will win a $50 VISA card.  Register here today. For additional information, call Monica DeLord at 708-283-5634 or email [email protected].

Water Bill Buck Buster – Through December 28

Park Forest Economic Development and Planning Department ‘Water Bill Buck Buster’ contest will continue through December 28. Spend $150 or more each quarter at local Park Forest businesses and you can enter a raffle for a $100 water bill credit. You can also win Village swag with the first $50 in receipts in each quarter. Submit receipts from local Park Forest businesses totaling $150 or more dated within each quarter.  Limit of one entry per household per quarter. Three drawings will be held in 2018:

  • June 29
  • September 28
  • December 28

Receipts are due the day before each drawing. Locate Park Forest businesses in the Park Forest Shopping & Service Guide found here. Email your receipts and include your name, address and phone number to [email protected] or drop off the information at Park Forest Village Hall 2nd Floor, 350 Victory Drive. For additional information, call 708-283-5617 or check your April water bill statement.

Park Forest Toastmasters Club

Meeting – Tuesday, May 22

The Park Forest Toastmasters Club will meet on Tuesday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 N. Orchard Drive in Park Forest. The meeting is open to the public. The Park Forest Toastmasters Club meets on the 1st and 4th Tuesdays of each month. Members develop speaking and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. For additional information, visit: www.parkforesttoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org.

Park Forest Youth Baseball

2018 Park Forest Baseball Registration – In Progress

Registration is now open for the 2018 baseball season for Park Forest Youth Baseball. Families with kids ages 4 to 14 who might be interested can visit Park Forest Baseball online to learn more details about the upcoming season. Their web site is www.pf-baseball.club or calls can be directed to 708-627-0586.

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Park Forest Job Fair – Saturday, May 12

The Village of Park Forest and the Commission on Human Relations will host a job fair on Saturday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event is slated to be held at 350 Victory Drive, Park Forest. Those seeking jobs are asked to “dress to impress.” No one wearing jeans or gym shoes will be admitted. If one is in need of business attire, there is a free business closet available. Call 708-283-5621 to schedule an appointment. Attendees should bring at least 20 copies of their resumes and show up “ready to interview,” according to information provided by the Village. Need more information? Call 708-283-5621, email [email protected], or visit villageofparkforest.com.

Park Forest Aqua Center Early Registration – Now in Progress

The Park Forest Aqua Center wants residents to know that they are now offering early bird registrations for the 2018 Swim Season. For more details, call visit the Village website www.villageofparkforest.com or call the Recreation and Parks Department at 708-748-2005.

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