Local

In and Around Park Forest for the Week of November 19, 2017


Happy Thanksgiving
(Source: Pinterest)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF) — On Thursday, we’ll be celebrating the Thanksgiving Holiday. For many of us, the meaning of Thanksgiving usually includes feasting, four-day weekends, football games, floats, family reunions, or a forerunner to Christmas festivities. But did you know that the first Thanksgiving was neither a feast nor a holiday, but a simple gathering. Historians tell us that following the Mayflower’s arrival at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620, the Pilgrims suffered the loss of 46 of their original 102 colonists. With the help of 91 Indians, the remaining Pilgrims survived the bitter winter and yielded a bountiful harvest in 1621. In celebration, a traditional English harvest festival, lasting three days brought the Pilgrims and natives to unite in a “thanksgiving” observance.

While many will be watching Thanksgiving football games, many will also be hitting the stores to begin their holiday shopping. Don’t forget when making your shopping lists to think about the many Park Forest merchants. The 2017/2018 Park Forest Shopping & Services guide will help you to do as much shopping locally as possible. You can download the guide here.

You’ll also notice that this week’s ‘In & Around Park Forest’ includes our annual section ‘Holiday Events and Activities’ that will help you find things for those of all ages to do to celebrate the holidays.

While this has been a tough year for many of us, let’s not forget to lose sight about how blessed we really are and give thanks for the many gifts we have in our lives. Wishing all our eNews readers a very joyous Thanksgiving holiday.

Events and activities featured in ‘In and Around Park Forest’ take place in Park Forest, the surrounding suburbs and locations that are just a train ride away. 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.

Village of Park Forest Administration

Village Hall Closure – November 23 & 24

Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 23 & 24 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Village Board Meeting – Monday, November 20

The Village of Park Forest Board will meet on Monday, November 20 16 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 November 19:

  • Tuesday, November 21 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
  • Tuesday, November 21 at 7 p.m. – Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

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

Holiday Events & Activities

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

Salt Creek Ballet to Perform ‘The Nutcracker’ – Tickets Now on Sale

The highly acclaimed Salt Creek Ballet once again brings its lovable holiday classic The Nutcracker to GSU’s Center for Performing Arts (CPA). This year, the production will feature internationally-recognized guest dancers Vilia Putrius and Mindaugas Bauzys from Festival Ballet Providence. The Nutcracker performers waltz into Governors State University on Saturday, December 9 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Families will enjoy a ‘Sugar Plum Party’ between the performances at 3 p.m. where they can take pictures with Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, and enter to win prizes. The Chicago Sun-Times has called the production “…a solid, professional Nutcracker,” and the Chicago Tribune calls it “a plum performance.” This enchanting holiday tradition features gorgeous sets and costumes and a cast of 89 dancers, including local children and young adults ages 8-17.

Ticket Information

Tickets are $43/$36/$28 for adults, based on seating location; $25 for seniors (65+); and $18 for children (16 and under).

Online: CenterTickets.net

By Phone: 708-235-2222

In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL

Box Office Hours: Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open until 6p.m. on Thursdays) and two hours prior to all performances. GSU is conveniently located off of I-57 (Sauk Trail exit), the Center for Performing Arts is easily accessible from all neighboring south suburban communities. Parking is free. For best GPS directions always use the location search term “Governors State University” only.

Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Lisa Rock in ‘A Carpenters’ Christmas’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for the performance of Lisa Rock in ‘A Carpenters’ Christmas’ on Tuesday, December 5 at 11 a.m. One of the great holiday TV specials was that of The Carpenters. Now, singer Lisa Rock and her 6-piece band are keeping the tradition alive and bringing their unforgettable holiday songs to the stage. Based on the music from The Carpenters two holiday albums and Christmas variety shows, it’s a concert that spreads joy and cheer to all! Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here. For additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org

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

Holiday Pops – Movie Music Spectacular – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, December 16 at 3 p.m. at the Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 West College Drive in Palos Heights, the IPO will present “Holiday Pops – Movie Music Spectacular. IPO friend and 2016 holiday concert guest conductor Fancesco Milioto returns to the IPO podium to lead the orchestra in some of the best of the best holiday classics for the young and young at heart. No doubt you’ll be smiling and humming along as the orchestra performs excerpts from: The Grinch, Frozen, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, and other seasonal favorites. This is sure to be a concert filled with good cheer, good will and holiday spirit along with a few special guest surprises. Tickets are $10 to $57 and can be purchased here. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org

Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road

Park Forest House Museum Lets You ‘Step Back into the 1950s’ Christmas

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, at 227 Monee Road (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church), Park Forest, Illinois, invites you to “Step Back into a 1950s Christmas.” The Museum will be decorated with things from Christmas past. The Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday, 1 to 3:30 p.m.; other times by appointment. 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. Special tours can be arranged by calling Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252, or Michael Gans, 708-305-3308.  Information on the society and museum, and email contact is at www.parkforesthistory.org.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

Friends of the Park Forest Library Pecan Sale – While Quantities Last

Friends of the Park Forest Library will once again be selling pecans. Available this year will be plan, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, cinnamon, glazed and caramel clusters. And while prices on everything else continue to rise, the Library’s pecans sill sell for only $10. Print the flyer that can be found online at the Library’s website for a free gift with purchase while quantities last. For additional information, or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Gallery to Celebrate Holiday Season with Two Exhibits – Through January 6, 2018

Tall Grass Arts Association in DownTown Park Forest will celebrate the 2017 holiday season with two simultaneous exhibits. The two exhibits, ‘Great Gifts Galore’ and ‘Peace on Earth’ will offer artists’ fine art, craft items and art work interpreting the spirit of the holidays.  The exhibits will run through Saturday, January 6.  The exhibits and reception are free and open to the public. The ‘Peace on Earth’ exhibit will present works that symbolize or portray positive moments, acts and attitudes that illustrate kindness, empathy, respect- people helping others, caring about each other, reaching across barriers  to accept and appreciate others. ‘Peace on Earth’ will include drawings, paintings, collages, mixed media pieces, prints, photographs, digital images, fiber pieces, glass and relief from sculptures from the thirty-one participating artists. These works will uplift and remind visitors of the best reasons to celebrate the holiday season. ‘Great Gifts Galore’ will feature an extensive offering of artists’ reasonable-priced, high-quality, original fine art and crafts items for sale. In addition to the exhibits, the Tall Grass Gift Shop provides another great source for a wide range of one-of-a-kind, affordable gift items, such as notecards, paintings, photographs, mobiles, sculptures and books. Gallery Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday. The Gallery is closed on Sunday and Monday. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

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

2017 Handmade Market – Through Saturday, December 16

USG will host its 2017 Handmade Market through Saturday, December 16. The much anticipated 2017 Handmade Market will feature local and regional goods from over 30 artists. You’ll find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.  And while you’re shopping, don’t forget to pick up something for yourself. For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit Website.

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Shop Locally this Holiday Season

The 2017/2018 Park Forest Shopping & Services guide will help you to do as much shopping locally as possible. You can download the guide here.

Holiday Tree Lighting – Friday, December 1

Park Forest’s Annual Holiday Tree Lighting will take place on Friday, December 1, beginning at 5 p.m., at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., there will be arts, crafts, and refreshments for kids. The lighting of the Holiday Tree will take place just after 6 p.m. on the Village Green, just steps from Dining on the Green. A special guest is expected to make an appearance for the Tree lighting. Residents are encouraged to arrive early to this event due to limited space. Source: www.villageofparkforest.com

Arts & Entertainment

Chicago Design Museum, 108 North State Street, Chicago

‘Hey! Play! Games in Modern Culture’ — Through Feb. 17, 2018

An interactive exhibition that encourages play and offers guests a look at the world of games beyond what’s found on Xbox or Steam is now open at the Chicago Design Museum. Co-curators Brian Schrank and LeAnne Wagner, both School of Design faculty members, created “Hey! Play! Games in Modern Culture,” with all ages and experience levels in mind. The exhibition features nine games that range across three big areas in gaming: high art, outsider art and indie games, said Schrank. High art games can help connect history and art and incorporate elements of graphic art, music or story. Outsider art involves individuals who aren’t necessarily trained in the arts and won’t be in the elite art galleries or museums, but involve art done out of obsessiveness. Small studios or independent artists who are blending art and commercialization make indie games. A few of the games on display and available to play at the exhibition include Robin Arnott’s “Sound-Self,” Feng Mengbo’s “Long March: Restart,” and Champlain College Emergent Media Center’s “Spacebox.”  The other games on display include “SuperBetter” by Jane McGonigal, “Slapsie” and “Parachute Game” by Bernie DeKoven, “Videoball” by Tim Rogers, “Untitled Game” by JODI, a collection of games by Anna Anthropy, and Terry Davis’s TempleOS operating system ready for play on a desktop computer. Founded in 2012, the Chicago Design Museum is located on the third floor of the Block Thirty-Seven mall at 108 N. State St. It’s open from noon to 7p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. “Hey! Play! Games in Modern Culture” runs through Feb. 17, 2018. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are encouraged. For additional information on the Chicago Design Museum is at https://chidm.com/.

Crete Public Library District, 1177 North Main Street

Library Closure — Thursday, November 23

The Crete Public Library District will be closed on Thursday, November 23 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The following events are scheduled at the Crete Public Library District the week of November 19:

  • Monday, November 20 at 10 a.m. – Music & Movement – Drop in for dancing, singing, and rhythm.  For ages 0-5.
  • Monday, November 20 at 3 p.m. – Teen Microwave Cooking – Bring a favorite holiday appetizer, side dish, or dessert to share. Plan on servings for 10 people. Register.
  • Monday, November 20 at 6 p.m. – Pokemon Club – Pokemon themed activities for ages 6+. Register.
  • Monday, November 20 at 6 p.m.– Teen Movie Night – Showing Pacific Rim.
  • Tuesday, November 21 at 7 p.m. – Trivia Night at Evil Horse Brewing Co. – Theme: The Simpsons TV show. For ages 21+. Register.
  • Wednesday, November 22 – The Library closes early at 5 p.m.
  • Friday, November 24 from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. – Black Friday Retreat – Relaxing activities and self-paced crafts for adults only. Drop-in.
  • Friday, November 24 at 3 p.m. – Current Events Cafe – Discussion on politics and the news for teens.

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 Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago

Senga Nengudi: Improvisational Gestures’ – Through December 10

In the 1970s, artist Senga Nengudi would carry pantyhose and other supplies for her “R.S.V.P.” series of sculptures around in her bag. Born in Chicago and a pioneer of performative art, Nengudi would stage choreographic actions within the works of nylon and sand. DePaul Art Museum will host a touring exhibition of Nengudi’s work, including documentation of her earliest performances. “Senga Nengudi: Improvisational Gestures” will be held on DePaul University’s Lincoln Park Campus through December 10 and is co-organized by Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and the Gallery of Contemporary Art at University  of  Colorado, Colorado Springs. The exhibition is co-curated by Windgate Research Curator Elissa Auther of the Museum of Design, and Nora Burnett Abrams of MCA Denver. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 5 pm. Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The museum is closed Monday and Tuesday. Admission is free. Additional information at http://museums.depaul.edu​ or 773-325-7506.

‘Thrill Ride’ – Screenings December 1 through 7

“Thrill Ride,” started as a promise Chris Parrish kept to his son and has now turned into an award-winning film for fantasy-adventure fans. The feature-length film will have its theatrical and national debut in December. “Thrill Ride” will be shown December 1 through 7 at suburban Chicago Classic Cinemas Theatres in Naperville, Elk Grove Village and Woodstock. It will be released December 12 on iTunes and Amazon. Parrish’s son, Mason, came up with the film’s plot in 2010 during a car ride when he was nine. Unfortunately, he was never able to see his story come to life. Mason was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric cancer and died a year later. “Thrill Ride” tells the adventure of three children who sneak into an abandoned amusement park in search of Al Capone’s legendary hidden treasure. After the attractions come to life, the children must team up with a friendly sea witch to find a secret underground ride while taking on an evil mermaid, bloodthirsty pirates, a fire-breathing dragon and an armada of monsters. The film stars Kristen Johnston of “Third Rock from the Sun” and Lucas Jade Zumann of “20th Century Women.” This film also has another purpose with half the profits supporting the Mason Parrish Foundation, a nonprofit organization Parrish created with his wife to fund research for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), the type of cancer that Mason had. The other half of “Thrill Ride” profits will go toward Mason’s Movies, in order to continue making films. Parrish said Mason’s cancer left him without the ability to walk, but “it never took his gift for storytelling. It never was able to touch his creativity.”

First Defense Legal Aid, 5100 West Harrison, Chicago

Blues & Brews Fundraising Event – Tickets Now

First Defense Legal Aid & Lagunitas Brewing Company Blues & Brews fundraiser on Monday, December 4. The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Lagunitas Brewing Company’s TapRoom, 2607 West 17th Street in Chicago. 100% of the $10 cover charge and net proceeds from beer-sales will support the work of First Defense Legal Aid in providing free, 24-hour legal aid for arrestees. There will be a complimentary Taco Bar and live Blues Music. The $10 cover charge can be paid in advance at www.first-defense.org/donate, or by cash, check or credit at the door. Free parking available in the lot.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

Library Closure – November 23 & 24

The Park Forest Library will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, November 23 & 24 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of November 19:

  • Sunday, November 19 at 1 p.m. – Morning Pages Circle — Join us as we discuss Twyla Tharp’s The Creative Habit Learn It and Use It For Life.
  • Monday, November 20 at 11 a.m. – Sunrise Story Time — Join us for a delightful morning of stories! For ages 12 and under.
  • Monday, November 20 at 4 p.m. – Teen Craftapalooza — Was there a program that you wanted to attend but could not? Help us clear out the old to bring in the new and enjoy a mish-mash of past crafts of all different kinds!
  • Tuesday, November 21 at 3:30 p.m. – Art Studio — Drop in and discover your inner artist with one of our guided projects. For ages 12 and under.
  • Tuesday, November 21 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, November 21 at 6:30 p.m. – Night Time Story Time – Jam out in your PJ’s with stories, crafts, music and more! For ages 12 and under.
  • Wednesday, November 22 at 11 a.m. – Lap-Sit Story Time — Join us for a weekly story-time designed exactly for your baby. Parents or caregivers are invited to read, sing and grow. This program is geared toward babies 0 – 36 months with an accompanying adult.
  • Wednesday, November 22 at 8 p.m. — Youth Astro Net —  Youth ages 9-12 are invited to register for an awesome opportunity to remotely access Harvard telescopes, request images of celestial objects and process images using the same software astronomers use. Registration is limited and parental consent is required!
  • Wednesday, November 22 at 3:30 p.m. – Art in the Afternoon — Unleash your inner artist. Drop in to create a seasonal masterpiece that will be displayed on the wall in kids’ zone. For ages 12 and under.
  • Wednesday, November 22 at 4 p.m. – Color Me Happy for Adults — Our grown-up coloring circle is the perfect way to step back from the stress of everyday life and enjoy some relaxation! All supplies will be provided.
  • Saturday, November 25 at 1 p.m. – Board Game Day — Join us for fun afternoon of wild and crazy fun with our board games.

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

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street8, Chicago Heights

‘The Elephant Man’ – Thursday, November 30

The PSC Players are presenting, ‘The Elephant Man,’ a Tony Award winning play based on the true story of John Merrick, the Elephant Man, as he climbs from carnival sideshow act, beaten and hounded for his terrible disfigurement, to artist, intellectual and celebrity in 19th century London. The production will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 30, in the PSC Barnes & Noble College Auditorium, located on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. Tickets are $5 at the door. For more information, call 708 709-7981 or [email protected].

‘Intricacies’ Exhibit – Through December 7

‘Intricacies’ is the next exhibit featured at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery. ‘Intricacies’ features works by Carrie Ann Bronkowski, Anna Louise Pardee Lindquist, Emily Hermant, and Richard Schipps.  The exhibit runs through Thursday, December 7. The exhibit is free and open to the public. This exhibition of works in widely varied media is filled with art that relies on intricate technique. The works’ content and appearance is based on the complex layering of materials and images. The Christopher Art Gallery regular hours: Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday: Evening 5 – 7 p.m.; or by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment to view the exhibit phone 708-709-3636.

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.

Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery, 18 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Photo Exhibit on Plight of World’s Stateless Children – Through December 2

Few can imagine what it is like to be stateless. Now a new photo exhibit “Nowhere People,” at Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery Chicago, tells the story. With its first showing ever in Chicago, “Nowhere People” by photographer Greg Constantine features 39 black-and-white photographs of children who have no citizenship, and therefore, no place to call their true home. A native of Carmel, Ind., Constantine spent 10 years photographing thousands of stateless people in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Dominican Republic, Ukraine, Serbia, Italy, the Netherlands, Iraq Kuwait and Lebanon. While the United Nations has estimated 10 million people around the world today are stateless, Constantine believes that number is much higher.  In addition, he believes that children of those without citizenship are impacted the most, which makes the Roosevelt exhibit not only unique, but also extremely powerful. The exhibit runs until December 2 and is free and open to the public. Gage Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.  For more information, visit www.roosevelt.edu/gagegallery or call 312-341-6458.

University of Chicago Neubauer Collegium for Culture and Society, 915 East 60th Street, Chicago

‘Havana Case Study’ Exhibition – Through December 14

After the brutality of World War II, the United States sought to usher in a new era of optimism in the late 1940’s through an ambitious embassy program that called on some of the greatest architects of the century to design buildings that represented a new foreign policy of openness, dialogue and progress. Those efforts are now the central theme of the latest exhibition at the Neubauer Collegium entitled Havana Case Study, which runs now through December 15. The exhibit is free and open to the public. It is one of several programs that have been organized on campus this fall in conjunction with the Chicago Architecture Biennial.  The project is the second in a series of case studies by New York-based Canadian artist Terence Gower. Funded by a Guggenheim Fellowship, the series began in 2010 with a study of the U.S. embassy in Baghdad. After several years of extensive research in Havana and U.S. archives, Gower’s new project explores the history and impact of the embassy, which opened its doors in Cuba in 1953. Gower said he was struck by the contrast between the older U.S. embassies, like the one in Havana, and the bunker-like embassies that became the reigning style in the 1980’s due to security concerns. That openness would be short-lived, as the embassy closed in 1961 following the end of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba. But the physical structure remains standing to this day, and Gower’s show attempts to capture both the early spirit of the embassy and the future uses of it for propaganda purposes following the Cuban revolution. The installation includes historic architectural models, as well as reprints of photographs and archival documents from 1958, prior to the revolution, overlaid with more recent photographs and newspaper clippings to show how the varied interpretations of the building played out through the century. The extensive archival research took Gower more than two and half years. For additional information, visit: http://neubauercollegium.uchicago.edu/exhibitions/

University of Chicago Oriental Institute, 1155 East 58th Street, Chicago

Book of the Dead: Becoming God in Ancient Egypt – Through March 31, 2018

In ancient Egypt, you did not go to the afterlife empty-handed. The Book of the Dead, a collection of spells and charms, was there to guide you. Now through March 31, 2018, visitors to the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago will have a unique opportunity to peruse copies of the Book of the Dead: Two 2,200-year-old papyri, each more than 30 feet long and beautifully illustrated with texts and images. They are on display in their entirety for the first time at a museum, accompanied by the mummy of a woman who lived over 2,000 years ago, as well as statues, stelae, scarabs, magic bricks, ushabtis (small funerary figurines) and other artifacts. The exhibit presents 76 artifacts that demonstrate how religious beliefs shaped the lives and material culture in Egypt over a period of more than 2,000 years (from 2500 B.C. to 100 A.D). Most are from the permanent collection of the Oriental Institute, whose museum holds the Chicago area’s largest collection of Egyptian art and artifacts, as well as galleries devoted to the other cultures of the ancient Middle East. A central feature of the exhibit is an enclosure featuring the mummy of an ancient Egyptian woman from the city of Akhmim. In the display, she is surrounded by mortuary objects inscribed with Book of the Dead spells—typical for an Egyptian burial chamber, where multiple copies of the same spells could be found. Long strips of linen inscribed with Book of the Dead spells reveal how ancient Egyptian priests wrapped the Book of the Dead around the body to protect it within an amuletic cocoon of powerful religious texts. The two Book of the Dead papyri on display, from two different regions of Egypt, were painstakingly hand-produced by a team of skilled scribes and illustrators. Seeing the papyri laid out end-to-end makes their compilation starkly apparent, the curators said; each Book of the Dead papyrus is not a single book at all, but a collection of shorter spells compiled together in a single manuscript. The Field Museum of Natural History has loaned several rarely displayed objects, including several limestone blocks inscribed with large Book of the Dead spells from the tomb of a man named Bakenrenef, as well as a papyrus inscribed with a composition known as the First Book of Breathing. Over the course of the second and first centuries B.C., the Book of the Dead was largely abandoned in favor of the Books of Breathing; they represent the last documents in a tradition of funerary literature stretching back more than 2,500 years. A companion catalog contains essays by 13 prominent scholars with expertise in religion and the use of funerary literature in ancient Egypt. It includes complete photographic documentation of the two Book of the Dead papyri from the Oriental Institute in color for the first time. “Book of the Dead: Becoming God in Ancient Egypt” runs  through March 31, 2018 at the museum. Admission to the Oriental Institute is free, however, there is a suggested donation: $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children under 12. For groups of 8 or more people visiting the museum, please register by completing and submitting the following form: Tour Reservation Form. Learn more about the Oriental Institute here. https://oi.uchicago.edu/

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

November is Resident Appreciation Month – Events All Month Long

November is Resident Appreciation Month in Park Forest.  There are raffles, gifts, programs, food, music and lots of fun for Park Foresters of all ages. Here’s the list of events:

Water Bill Raffle

Through November 29th

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Stop at Village Hall and enter your household for your chance to win $100 off your next water bill. Hurry in today! Three lucky households will be selected. Winners will be drawn and contacted on Thursday, November 30th. Proof of residency will be required to collect the prize. Fill out your form in the lobby today. Winners will be notified by email or phone.

Win a Basket of Village “SWAG”

Through November 29th

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Come enter your name in a raffle for a chance to win a basket of Park Forest “SWAG”. Raffle box will be in the lobby all month during business hours. Fill out your form in the lobby today. Winners will be drawn and contacted on Thursday, November 30th.

Nominees for Realtor Awards

Through November 30th

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Whether you are a new home-buyer in the area or been out here for decades, we would like to hear from you. We are looking for nominations for the best Realtor in the area. Nominate your Realtor today. Nomination forms can be picked up in the lobby at the Village Hall today. Call 708-283-5621 or email, [email protected].

Nominees for Park Forest Community Oscars Awards

Through Monday, December 18th

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

We are venturing out and spreading the love amongst our community. We are looking for nominations for the best talent in the area, police officer, staff person, volunteer, fireman, most active church, you name it. We are looking for our community to get involved and make the nominations. No suggestion will go unnoticed, this event is to celebrate our local talent, historians, artists and much more. Stay turned for the Oscar event in January. Reserve your spot early. This event will be a packed house. Grab your nomination form in the lobby of Village Hall. Questions? Call 708-283-5621 or email, [email protected].

Park Forest New Resident Bus Tour

Wednesday, November 29, 11a-1p

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Are you new to Park Forest and looking to see what’s around town or just haven’t had time to explore your town? Well this Bus Tour is for you. We will tour around town and show you all the hot and adventurous locations. From local parks, pool, tennis club, rail-fan park, MakerLab and much more. Come see what your community is about and how you can take advantage of it to the fullest. Space is limited, so RSVP no later than, Friday, November 24, by calling, 708-283-5621 or email [email protected].

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Marian Catholic High School, 700 Ashland Avenue, Chicago Heights

Tuition Assistance Information Night – Monday, November 27

Marian Catholic High School is hosting a Tuition Assistance Information Night on Monday, November 27 at 6:30 p.m. Families interested in learning more about how they can afford Marian Catholic, including the State of Illinois’s new Invest in Kids Act scholarships, are encouraged to attend. The meeting will take place in the Leadership Center located off of Joe Orr Road and should last approximately 45 minutes. For more information, please visit the school’s website here.

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

Student Veterans Center Celebrates Veterans – Through November

The Student Veterans Center at PSC is celebrating veterans throughout the month of November with various activities intended to honor those who have served. All events are open to the public, and most will be held on the college’s main campus at in Chicago Heights.

Tuesday, November 21

A PSC Pioneers Women’s and Men’s Basketball Game Veterans Night is scheduled at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 21 in the PSC Fieldhouse, located on the college’s north campus.

Wednesday, November 22

The month’s events will close with the retirement of the Missing Man Table at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday

November 22, in the atrium

Veterans are supported throughout the year at PSC. Student veterans are eligible for early registration, in-district tuition rates, and one-on-one assistance navigating college life. These services extend to all service members, regardless of when they served or whether it was active, reserve or National Guard component. PSC offers assistance to new students, returning students, or those who are deployed on active duty, so veterans can achieve their academic goals. The Student Veterans Center offers students a place to study and socialize with other veterans and find out information on services available to them both at PSC and in the community. For more information on the Veteran’s Day celebrations being held on campus or for information about the services PSC offers to veterans, contact Georges Sanon, student veterans center coordinator at 708-709-3567 or [email protected].

Free Financial Aid Workshops – Through December 6

PSC is offering free workshops to help students and their parents complete and file the 2018/19 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The workshops are being held in the Learning Achievement Center on the PSC main campus, located in Chicago Heights.  The FAFSA workshops are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday through December 6. There will be no workshops on November 21 and 22, and only one workshop will be held on November 28, from 5 to 7 p.m. Representatives from the office of Financial Aid will be available during the workshops to assist and answer questions. The workshops are open to the public. Registration is requested at www.prairiestate.edu/facheckup or sign-up by emailing your name, student ID, phone number and desired session to [email protected]. In order to complete the FAFSA, students will need to provide their 2016 tax information. Other required documents and available workshop dates can be found at www.prairiestate.edu/finaid.

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

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

Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive

Flu Shots Now Available

Flu shots are available now at the Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus. The cost is $30 for those ages 19 through 64, $20 for those 18 years and under, and free for Medicare Part B recipients (must bring copy of card).  No appointment is necessary. Shots are available Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus, located in the lower level of Village Hall. For additional information, call 708-748-1118.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private 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.

Buddhist Meditation – Saturdays

Learn to enjoy the simple and straight-forward practice of meditation.  Please join us for sitting and walking meditation in the Zen and Theravadan Buddhist traditions.  This is an on-going event led by Steve McCabe and Beverly Feldt will be held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at UUCC.  There is no cost but a free will offering is most appreciated (proceeds go to UUCC).  For additional information contact Steve McCabe at 708-465-3116 or Beverly Feldt at [email protected].

This & That

Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road

Park Forest Hall of Fame Nominations — Accepted Through Friday, December 29

Nominations for the Park Forest Hall of Fame are now being accepted through Friday, December 29. Nominations must be submitted on the official form which must accompany nominations. The nomination form can be found here in the Historical Society’s November newsletter. Completed nominations may be mailed to the Park Forest House Museum, 227 Monee Road, or delivered in person to the Museum during regular hours (Wednesdays & Saturdays 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.). To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, persons nominated must have made substantial, beneficial, and consistent contributions to the life and well-being of Park Forest over a considerable span of time. Nominees do not currently have to live in Park Forest or can be deceased. Individuals as well as couples may be nominated. Nominations can be made by someone who does not live in Park Forest and does not have to be a member of the Historical Society. Individuals may only make one nomination each year. The official nomination form must be submitted along with separate sheet(s) of paper indicating why the person is being nominated and describing the nominee’s qualifications and contributions. Inductees will be chosen from the eligible nominees by the Park Forest Historical Society and announced in early 2018. An induction ceremony will be held at Freedom Hall on April 15, 2018. For additional information, call Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252.

Park Forest Police Department, 200 Lakewood Boulevard

Park Forest Team Participating in Special Olympics Polar Plunge Seeking Support – Team racing in Honor of Officer Tim Jones

The Law Enforcement Torch Run and GEICO’s 2018 Polar Plunge provides a unique opportunity to support Special Olympics athletes by taking a flying leap into the frigid waters of Manteno Lake located in Kankakee County. Each participant must raise $100 in donations from friends, family, neighbors and co-workers in exchange for jumping into the icy waters. The Park Forest Team will be taking the plunge in honor of Officer Tim Jones who suffered gunshot wounds in the line of duty in March of 2016 and is still recovering. The 2018 Polar Plunge is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 3 at the Manteno Sportsmen’s Club, 851 North Main Street in Manteno. Registration will take place at noon with the plunge at 2 p.m. Join the team by donating to a great cause and come out on March 3 and support Special Olympics Illinois!  Make a donation or register for the 2018 Polar Plunge here.

Park Forest Toastmasters Club

Meeting – Tuesday, November 28

The Park Forest Toastmasters Club will meet on Tuesday, November 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 North Orchard Drive in Park Forest.  The meeting is open to the public.  Toastmaster members develop speaking and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.  For additional information, visit: http://parkforesttoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org/

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Business Attire Wanted – Collection Now in Progress

The Village of Park Forest is collecting gently used or new men and women business attire. Clean out your closet and contribute to a good cause.  This project will provide business attire for any constituent looking to dress professional for work or interviews. Donations may include:

  • Suits for men and women
  • Ties, belts and shoes
  • Blazers,
  • Dress pants,
  • Dress shirts
  • Blouses,
  • Dresses and skirts, and
  • Clothing Racks and Hangers

Drop off is by appointment only. For additional information or to schedule a drop-off appointment, call or email Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or [email protected].

 


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