Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF) — With the countdown on for the 2018 mid-term elections, the League of Women Voters Park Forest Area will host a timely and instructive meeting on Voter Education on Wednesday, October 10. The program will be held at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, beginning at 7 p.m. Al Sturges, a longtime member of the Park Forest Nonpartisan Committee, will discuss the League’s Guide Site and online voters’ guide: (“Vote 411”). Vote Smart, which provides free unbiased, in-depth information about current candidates, their funding, positions on issues, and legislation, will be highlighted. You can find additional information about the event in the ‘This & That’ section.
Be sure to check out all the other events and activities taking place In & Around Park Forest. Have a great week!
###
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 of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Village Board Meeting – Monday, October 15
The next meeting of the Park Forest Board is scheduled to take place on Monday, October 15 at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend. To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s website 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 October 7:
- Tuesday, October 9 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
- Tuesday, October 9 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
- Wednesday, October 10 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group
The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Hydrant Flushing – Through Friday, October 19
Hydrant flushing will be continued through Friday, October 19. Flushing takes place on weekdays at 8:30 a.m. No flushing is done on weekends. Hydrants are flushed to ensure that water does not stagnate in the system. During flushing, your water may become discolored from iron in the pipes. There are no known health risks associated with consuming discolored water caused from iron in the pipes, but it is recommended 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 began in the north part of town and proceeds south. Click on the below link to track progress of hydrant flushing by viewing the hydrant flushing map. The map will be updated as the flushing process progresses. For questions call 708-503-7702. View hydrant flushing page with map
Arts & Entertainment
Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Aaron Neville Duo – Saturday, October 13
The Center is pleased to announce that the Aaron Neville Duo will perform on Saturday, October 13 at 8 p.m. Grammy-Award winning, American R&B and soul singer Aaron Neville is arguably the most distinctive vocal stylist on the planet to tell it like it is. Performing with keyboard player Michael Goods, this intimate evening showcases “the other side of Aaron.” Known for his work with The Neville Brothers, his four Platinum-certified albums and four Top 10 hits, his latest solo album Apache, hails to his mixed Choctaw and African-American roots. Touching on the mystic gumbo of “Yellow Moon” and sheer sweetness of “Everybody Plays the Fool,” patrons will be privileged to experience a third path never quite heard from Neville before. Don’t miss this iconic evening of hits, stories and soul from one of the best in the business. Tickets are $55, $48, and $35. There is also a special VIP ticket for $125 that includes premium seating, wine and appetizers, an autographed CD and a photo with Aaron Neville. Watch Aaron Neville’s Videos here
Tickets for the Aaron Neville Due can be purchased:
- Online here
- By phone at 708-235-2222.
- At the Box Office, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Hours: Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. & 2 hours prior to all performances.
Discounts are available for students, children, seniors 65+, groups of 10+, and patrons purchasing three or more shows. Like us on Facebook @centeratgsu for updates on events, offers and more. Share your experience at the Center on Instagram #govstatearts. Parking is free. For best GPS directions, use the location search term “Governors State University.” For additional information, visit www.govstate.edu.
Crete Public Library District, 1177 North Main Street
The following events are scheduled at the Crete Public Library District the week of October 7:
- Monday, October 8 at 6 p.m. – Teen Movie Night – Enjoy a popular or classic teen movie. Call the library for the film title. For ages 13-18.
- Monday, October 8 at 7 p.m. – Book Club – Discussion of American Born Chinese by Gene Yang. For adults.
- Monday, October 8 at 7 p.m. – Knot Just for Knitters – Share camaraderie while working on knitting, crocheting or any other type of needlework project. For adults.
- Tuesday, October 9 at 11:15 a.m. – Storytime at Aurelio’s – Join us at Aurelio’s for stories, songs, and fingerplays. For ages 0-5.
- Tuesday, October 9 at 6 p.m. – The Young Adult (for Adults) Book Club – Discussion of Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion. Group meets at The Loft Restaurant.
- Wednesday, October 10 at 3 p.m. – Photo Editing 101 – Learn about depth of field in this month’s class. For ages 11-adult. Register.
- Wednesday, October 10 at 4:45 p.m. – Mediums in Art: Summer Flowers –
- Create beautiful flowers using chalk. For grades 1-5. Register.
- Wednesday, October 10 at 6 p.m. – Selling Online: eBay Tips – Learn tips and techniques for successfully selling your items online. Receive instruction on signing up for eBay and creating your first listing. For adults. Register.
- Thursday, October 11 at 6 p.m. – STEAM Junior: Body Science – Learn about the human body in this science, technology, engineering, art, and math program. For ages 3-5. Register.
- Thursday, October 11 at 6 p.m. – T(w)een Craft Night – Relax and take some time to make a one-of-a-kind craft for yourself or a friend. All materials provided. For ages 11-18.
- Friday, October 12 at 10 a.m. – Babies & Books – Join us weekly for a storytime that integrates the power of structured play with stories and songs. This program will provide guidance in how to read with your little one and other early literacy concepts. For ages 0-24 months. Register.
- Friday, October 12 at 3 p.m. – Anime Club – Anime screenings, trivia contests, and manga-inspired games. For ages 11-18.
For more information or to register for a program, please call the Crete Public Library at 708-672-8017 or visit www.cretelibrary.org.
Coffee Connection is Back – Monday through Thursday During School Year
With school back in session, Coffee Connection at the Crete Public Library has just begun its 17th year of providing refreshments for library visitors. Coffee Connection began in 2002 with a grant written by then-director Jane Schulten, as a partnership with the Special Education Department at Crete-Monee 201-U. Students from the high school come to the library to serve a selection of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, cocoa, juice, and bottled water, and offer prepackaged biscotti and Nutrigrain bars. Under the supervision of Brigitte Calgaro, Job Coach, the students brew the coffee, run the cash register, bus tables, and practice their customer service skills. They also set out small vases of fresh flowers, provided by The Finishing Touch florist in Crete. This endeavor provides a unique opportunity to the students, who gain experience interacting with the public, preparing the coffee, and handling money. Many of the program’s past participants have gone on to secure paying jobs in the community after graduation. Coffee Connection is open from 10 a.m. until noon, Monday through Thursday, during the school year on days that school is in session. Please stop by the library to visit us!
DePaul Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton Avenue, Chicago
Fall Art Exhibits – Through Sunday, December 16
DePaul University has announced its Fall 2018 Art Exhibitions. The exhibitions will run through Sunday, December 16, 2018, at DePaul’s Lincoln Park Campus are free and open to the public.
Brendan Fernandes: “The Living Mask”
A classically trained ballet dancer, Fernandes started thinking more critically about the profession after he left it. Born in Kenya to descendants from Goa — a former Portuguese colony in India — Fernandes and his family left Kenya for Toronto in 1989 due to political unrest in the country. That background plays strongly into Fernandes’ work as he continues to explore his African heritage through art. Among the pieces Fernandes provided for the exhibition are several black-and-white photographs from his “As One” series taken in 2017. The images show white ballet dancers in poses alongside African masks positioned on stands. The ballet poses are specific and intentional and show deference to the masks, Fernandes explained. Three African masks made with neon lights also are displayed in the exhibition. Fabricated African masks sold as tourist souvenirs on Canal Street in New York City, but based on objects in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Collection inspired Fernandes to create these pieces. Nine African objects from DePaul’s collection, including masks from the Republic of Congo, Cameroon and Nigeria, round out the exhibition.
Yasuhiro Ishimoto: “Someday, Chicago”
Born in the United States and raised in Japan, Ishimoto returned to the U.S. in his late teens. Only a few years later he became one of more than 115,000 Americans with Japanese ancestry forced into internment camps during World War II. It was in the internment camp where he first developed an interest in photography, showing a formal rigor and keen eye for composition, according to the exhibition’s guest curators, Jasmine Alinder and John Tain. Alinder is an associate professor of history at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Tain is head of research at the Art Asia Archive in Hong Kong. Following his release at the end of the war, the U.S. government sent Ishimoto to Chicago, where he developed a lifelong love of the city and continued his work with photography. Living in the city from 1945-52 and then again from 1958-61, Ishimoto developed his unique modernist vision. He studied at the Institute of Design at the Illinois Institute of Technology and took photographs on the city’s streets, creating images of iconic Chicago landmarks like the Loop and the ‘L’ train, and also of everyday life — people walking to work or a car driving by. He went into segregated neighborhoods to take photographs of daily life, as well as public spaces where racial and class mixing more commonly occurred. A well-known artist internationally, Ishimoto is considered a master of black-and-white photography. After returning to Japan in 1961, he revisited his earlier interest in architectural photography and later turned to Cibachrome photography, which was an innovative color process he utilized to create abstract images. Though Ishimoto visited Chicago numerous times, he lived primarily in Japan until his death in 2012. The DePaul Art Museum exhibition “Yasuhiro Ishimoto: Someday, Chicago” features more than 50 works that include both black-and-white photographs from his work in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s in Chicago and his Cibachrome photographs from the early 1980s. The exhibition is part of Art Design Chicago, an exploration of Chicago’s art and design legacy, an initiative of the Terra Foundation for American Art with presenting partner The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation.
Whitney Bradshaw: “Outcry”
Defined as a loud, piercing cry or cries expressing excitement, great emotion or pain, a scream can be a powerful tool for the overlooked to express public anger or disapproval. In her exhibition for DePaul Art Museum, Bradshaw’s “Outcry” features 108 portraits of women screaming that she’s photographed since Jan. 20, 2018, the day of the Women’s March on Washington. Each photograph is a document of much more involved events created by Bradshaw in her home studio where she invites groups of women to scream in response to the silencing they’ve experienced. “Outcry” challenges stereotypes around women and femininity, while celebrating their resilience and insisting on a reconsideration of beauty and power, she said. Bradshaw developed the idea of exploring the silence surrounding sexual violence and harassment while working with the local nonprofit organization Rape Victim Advocates when she was in her 20s. With the recent rise of the #MeToo movement, Bradshaw felt the time was right for the project since she had identified a way to explore these difficult issues that was positive, therapeutic, empowering and fun for the women involved, she said. In addition to the images on display, Bradshaw will hold two scream sessions at the museum Sept. 21 and Nov. 10. Just as in her home studio, Bradshaw will work with small groups of 10-20 women who don’t know one another to create a safe space in which each can practice expressing themselves unencumbered. She will make individual portraits of each woman as they take turns screaming in front of the camera while being encouraged by the others in the group. These portraits will be added to the installation over the duration of the exhibition along with any new portraits she makes during her continuous home studio sessions.
Neon art piece: “Tourist/Refugee”
One additional work of art will hang in the West-facing window closest to the Fullerton ‘L’ stop between the summer and fall exhibitions in August and then again in December between the fall and winter exhibitions. Called “Tourist/Refugee,” the piece is a blinking neon light that flashes the word tourist followed by the word refugee. Chicago-based artists Adam Brooks and Mathew Wilson, who call themselves “Industry of the Ordinary,” designed the piece in order to address the implications of foreign policy on the movement of people across borders and the humanitarian responsibility of providing aid for refugees. On Oct. 8, Columbus Day — or Indigenous People’s Day — Industry of the Ordinary will hold a silent vigil at 5:30 p.m. at Saint Vincent de Paul Church in remembrance of the many thousands of displaced people who have recently tried, and often failed, to find safe harbor. Titled “Genuflect,” the procession will then head east to Lake Michigan.
DePaul Art Museum is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. 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.
Freedom Hall, 401 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Glenn Miller Orchestra – Tuesday, October 9
Freedom Hall’s 2018/19 Matinee series begins on Tuesday, October 9 at 11 a.m. with a performance by the Glenn Miller Orchestra. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Glenn Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing all around the world. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased in person or online here. For additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
‘Hollywood Swinging’ – Saturday, October 19
Freedom Hall’s 2018/19 series opens on Saturday, October 19 with ‘Hollywood Swinging,’ the ultimate tribute to the super group Kool & The Gang. They will bring the party hits of Kool & The Gang from the 70’s thru the 80’s, combining the excitement of a live show with a super-charged dance party to remember. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased in person or online here. For additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
‘Original Warrior’ Exhibition –Through Saturday, April 22
The NVAM is proud to announce ‘Original Warrior,’ an exhibit created to explore the complex Native American relationship between warrior and community, warrior and war, and warrior and service. The exhibit will and run through Saturday, April 22. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Native American nations have a long tradition of honoring and welcoming veterans back into their community after a time of war. Even now, pow wows have kept their focus on celebrating community and culture traditions while evolving fabrics, colors and songs emerge throughout the years. Co-curated by Tom Jones and Ash Kyrie, ‘Original Warrior’ features the work of Native American artists Rick Bartow, Miridith Campbell, T.C. Cannon, Melissa Doud, Teri Greeves, John Hitchcock, Tom Jones, Monty Little, Clarence Monegar, Lloyd Kiva New, and Horace Poolaw. Many of the artists in the exhibit are military veterans who weave the experiences they had while serving into their current cultural perspectives as Native Americans. ‘Original Warrior’ also includes civilian Native American artists who each create works reflecting the identity and roles of the warrior within their own communities. For more information on ‘Original Warrior’ visit: www.nvam.org’ NVAM is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. For group admission reservations visit www.nvam.org.
Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road
“Step Back into a 1950s Halloween” –Through Wednesday, November 7
Vintage Halloween decorations are on display in the 1950s Park Forest House Museum through Wednesday, November 7. Located at in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 227 Monee Road, the museum is open Wednesday and Saturday 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; or for groups by appointment. Display items include Gurley Halloween candles, die-cut decorations, and a boxed costume with mask. Park Forest 70th Anniversary Exhibits are on display throughout 2018-2019, including “Design through the Decade, 1948-1958.” The museum always tells the story of how Park Forest was developed and describes life in the village in its first 5 years, 1948-1953. Toys, dolls, books, clothing and household furnishings all help portray life in the early 1950s to 1960s. September marks the 20th Anniversary of the museum, which was started for the 50th Anniversary of Park Forest. Information is on the website at http://www.parkforesthistory.org and with Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252, or Mike Gans at 708-305-3308. Admission donation is adults $5; children 12 and under free with an adult.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of October 7:
- Monday, October 8 at 11 a.m. – Story Time Stars — Rise and Shine! Parents can jump-start the day with stories and a craft for your little one. Ages 12 and under.
- Monday, October 8 at 3 p.m. – Kidz Zone Science Club – Registration Required.
- Monday, October 8 at 3:30 p.m. – Kids 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.
Ages 12 and under. - Monday, October 8 at 4 p.m. – All Day Drop In Projects –Stop by the Lab for a spur-of-the-moment activity.
- Monday, October 8 at 4 p.m. – Explore This World of Wonder — Drop in to the Explore space and discover something new.
- Tuesday, October 9 at 10:30 a.m. – Take Charge of Your Health — Join this Age Options six-week interactive workshop to help individuals living with ongoing health conditions, learn new skills in self-management. Learn how you can continue to thrive at any age. Anyone with an ongoing health condition such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain are welcome to attend. Earn a certificate of completion at the end of six weeks. Registration Required.
- Tuesday, October 9 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, October 9 at 4 p.m. – Color-Rama! Coloring Circle — Cool down inside from the summer heat with a fun activity that helps you to unwind and relax.
- Tuesday, October 9 at 6 p.m. – PJ Storytime — Share special moments with your child through stories, crafts, and more. For ages 12 and under.
- Wednesday, October 10 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, October 10 at 3:30 p.m. – Color Me Mine — 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, October 10 at 4 p.m. – Adult Coloring — Join us and relax a bit with our coloring circle. All supplies are provided.
- Wednesday, October 10 at 4 p.m. – All Day Drop In Projects — Stop by the Lab for a spur-of-the-moment activity.
- Wednesday, October 10 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, October 11 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art — Bring out your inner Picasso through art projects and more… Some projects may involve paint. Ages 3-5.
- Thursday, October 11 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, October 11 at 4 p.m. – Teen Movie — Cool down this summer with a featured film.
- Thursday, October 11 at 6 p.m. – Earth Wise Movie Night “Revenge of the Electric Car” — Film-maker Chris Paine examines four entries in the race to create a viable alternative to traditional gas- or diesel-powered vehicles.
- Friday, October 2 at 1 p.m. – Digital Literacy Workshop – Internet Basics — Learn the basics about finding information on the internet, and navigating your way around websites. Registration Required.
- Friday, October 12 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, October 13 at 1 p.m. — Ukulele Orchestra Rehearsal (New Members Welcome) — The Library has a Ukulele Orchestra! We are looking for ukulele players from ages 12* to 112 who are well seasoned or just beginners. We also have a few seats open for Kazoo players over age 65. You must have your own instrument to join. We will provide the sheet music and other supplies. *Noted: Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Saturday, October 13 at 1 p.m. – Fruteland Jackson: Blues 101 — Join three time Blues Music Award Nominee and a recipient of the Blues Foundation’s “Keeping the Blues Alive” award Fruteland Jackson for an afternoon of music and storytelling.
- Sunday, October 14 at 2 p.m. — These Are the Days: Old Time Radio Broadcast — Join us as we turn back the hands of time to when the radio was a leading source of information and entertainment.
For additional information, or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, October 11
Join us at 10:30 a.m. in the Library’s Ringering Room for coffee and conversation. This week’s lecture is “The League of Women Voters: Past and Present” Presenter: Mary Lubetozzi, long-time member of the Park Forest Area League of Women’s Voters.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
‘Materiality’ Exhibit – Through Thursday, October 25
The ‘Materiality’ exhibit is running at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery through Thursday, October 25. The exhibit is free and open to the public. ‘Materiality’ features works by Ragnhildur Stefánsdóttir, Nnenna Okore, Marjorie Woodruff, Mille Guldbeck, Margi Weir, and Ann Rosen. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday: evening from 5 p.m. – 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.
Fossil, Gem and Mineral Show — October 20 and 21
Exhibits featuring fossils, crystals, jewelry, and fluorescent stones will be on display for the two-day Fossil, Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show on Saturday, October 20, and Sunday, October 21. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the Prairie Center Gym, located on the PSC main campus in Chicago Heights. This family-friendly event is free and offers educational opportunities for all ages including a special presentation during Sunday’s show featuring NASA Ambassador, Joel Knapper. Gem and fossil enthusiasts will get the chance to meet the experts, get a close look at the latest finds, and learn about the geological history of the area. Exhibits will include fossils from Mazon Creek and Thornton Quarry, minerals, jewelry, lapidary, crystals and artifacts. Handmade jewelry, precious stones, fossils, crystals and more will be available for purchase. The show is co-hosted by PSC’s Department of Natural Sciences and the South Suburban Earth Science Club. For more information, contact Burrough at [email protected] or Jan Podbielski at [email protected].
60th Anniversary Gala to Benefits Student Scholarships – Saturday, October 20
To celebrate PSC’s 60th anniversary this year, the PSC Foundation is hosting its annual Gala at 6 p.m., Saturday, October 20, on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. The Foundation has helped thousands of students over the years with tuition, books, supplies and overall support that extend beyond financial need, including college projects that benefit student learning. To help support the increasing number of scholarship applicants, the Foundation hosts an annual special event to raise funds for PSC students. The black-tie optional event begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Conference Center, followed by a 7 p.m. gourmet dinner in the college atrium. The Gala will feature a live auction, choice raffles, dancing and a special “Stand Up for Scholarships” presentation. All proceeds from the event will benefit student scholarships. For tickets or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.give.classy.org/PSCGala. Donations in any amount are accepted. For more information, contact the PSC Foundation at 708-709-3631.
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.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
‘Made In America’ Exhibit – Reception Saturday, October 13
The ‘Made in America’ Exhibit will run through Tuesday, November 13. A reception will be held on Saturday, October 13 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gallery featuring live music by “Bout Time” jazz ensemble, refreshments and conversation. Both the exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public. For additional information and Gallery hours, visit www.salonartistsgallery.com or call 708-703-7806.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 State Street, South Holland
‘Day By Day’ Exhibit – Through Thursday, October 11
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Art & Design Department of SSC is pleased to present a solo exhibition entitled ‘Day By Day, Artworks by Daniela Kovačić.’ The exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery through Thursday, October 11. On September 26, Ms. Kovačić will deliver an Artist Lecture at 12 noon in room 4340 with an artist reception to follow at 1 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Born and raised in the Chilean Patagonia, Daniela has dedicated her career to oil painting. Her work explores different topics around self-identity, largely through the depiction of women and children. She has a master’s degree from the New York Academy of Art and a bachelor’s degree from Universidad Finis Terrae, Santiago, Chile. Daniela has received prestigious awards and scholarships such as Fulbright, Becas Chile, Robert Gamblin Painting Award, NYAA scholarships and a residency from the Terra Foundation for American Art. Her work has been exhibited and published internationally since 2005. The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. For more information contact 708-596-2000 ext. 2316. Para Información En Español Llame: 708-210-5740.
‘The Mask Behind The Mask’ Photographs by David Hauptschein – Through Wednesday, October 24
SSC’s Art & Design Department is pleased to announce a special guest artist exhibition titled ‘The Mask Behind the Mask,’ Photographs by David Hauptschein, in the Photo Four Gallery from now through its closing reception on October 24th at 12:30 p.m. The Photo Four Gallery is located in Room 4338 on the 4th Floor of SSC’s Main Campus. Hauptschein is currently working on several series of photo-based digital paintings. Selections from ‘Never Before Seen’ and ‘The Mask Behind the Mask’ were exhibited at the Zhou B Art Center in Chicago in 2016. Additionally, Hauptschein is an award-winning playwright, director, and producer. He also created an award-winning experimental animated short film entitled Fecundation. SSC Galleries are open at minimum Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. For more information, please call 708-596-2000, ext. 2445 or visit www.ssc.edu/art.
SSC Music Events – October 2018
Please note: This calendar is correct at the time of publication and is subject to change. All events are held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center (PAC) on SSC’s Main Campus and admission is FREE (donations are appreciated to benefit the Music Scholarship Fund).
October 10, 2018 – 7 pm – PAC
Jazz Orchestra Concert
Under the direction of Prof. Sam Hankins, the SSC Jazz Orchestra will be performing our first concert.
October 15, 2018 – 7:00 pm – PAC
Orchestra & Chamber String Ensemble Concert
The concert will feature the two new music ensembles in the Music Department: the SSC Chamber String Ensemble (directed by Prof. David Howard) and the SSC Orchestra. Under the direction of Prof. Phil Bauman, the Orchestra will present a diverse program of string music encompassing a wide range of musical styles, including the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Leonard Bernstein’s birth with memorable selections from West Side Story and other favorite composers of “Lenny.”
October 17, 2018 – 12:00 pm – PAC
Lecture Recital: “Joy and Sorrow”
Through the lens of music, we will explore the complex mixture of joys and sorrows that comprise the human experience. SSC cellist Patricia White, guest violinist Tamara Ringas and SSC pianist Marilyn
Bourgeois will present, in various combinations, an assortment of works of music that give voice, as only richly glorious music can, to the emotional spectrum.
October 19, 2018 – 7:00 pm – PAC
SSC Voices & Symphonic Band Concert
The SSC Voices, under the direction of Prof. Doug Ulreich, will be performing famous choral works, including Up, Up and Away, Twilight Time, Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name, The Joy of Living, and I Know that My Redeemer Lives. Under the direction of Prof. Jeff Brath, the SSC Symphonic Band will present various styles of band music.
For more information or to confirm dates and times, call 708-596-2000, ext. 2316.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Soundwaves – Colorcodes – Natureforms’ Exhibit – Through Saturday, November 3
The ‘Soundwaves – Colorcodes – Natureforms’ exhibit feature the work of four artists who interpret objects and ideas through abstract imagery. The exhibit includes paintings, prints, photographs and sculptures by artists who have created a large body of work that is primarily abstract; who explore concepts related to music, sound, natural forms and pure geometric design. Works represent a clearly identifiable and personal language of form, shape, color, texture, imagery and mark-making or process. Artists include: James Bowden, Bill Dixon, Linda Haynes, and Patricia Moore. The exhibit will run through Saturday, November 3. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
The Drama Group, 330 West 202nd Street, Chicago Heights
‘Sister Act, the Musical’ – Opens Friday, October 12
The Drama Group opens its 88th Season with the blockbuster musical, ‘Sister Act, the Musical’ directed by Darcelle Williams. Performances will be held at The Drama Group’s Studio Theatre on October 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20 at 7:30 p.m. and matinees on October 14 & 21 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $23 for adults; $21 for seniors and $17 for students with ID. Group discount rates are also available. Some of the performances are already “sold out,” but good seats are still available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 708-755-3444 or online here. For directions and other information regarding Drama Group activities, please visit www.dramagroup.org
Synopsis ‘Sister Act,’ the Musical
‘Sister Act’ pits disco-dancing nuns against dangerous gangsters in a joyous feel-good musical comedy. It celebrates the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music. Based on the hit film starring Whoopie Goldberg, and nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. When disco diva Deloris VanCartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find themselves up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood. This year The Drama Group is pleased to be a member of S.A.M.B.A. [Southland Arts Municipalities Business Alliance] and a participant in the MADE IN AMERICA Festival with the other 21 arts organization taking part. See details at www.southlandarts.org.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Online Educational Resources
Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.
Top U.S. Universities
Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At http://www.topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.
Green Events
Park Forest Environment Commission
Fairy Gardens – Saturday, October 13
The 2018 Park Forest Gardening Series continues on Saturday, October 13 with a discussion about Fairy Gardens — tiny, whimsical and fun gardens. Bring a fairy and a pot and we’ll supply the rest and work together to make your own. The event will take place at the Wetlands Discovery Center, 30 North Orchard beginning at 10:30 a.m.
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
Congresswoman Robin Kelly, 600 Holiday Plaza Drive, Suite 505, Matteson
6th Annual Hiring Event and Job Readiness Workshop – Registration Now in Progress
Congresswoman Robin Kelly will host her 6th Annual Hiring Event for residents of the 2nd Congressional District on Friday, October 19, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Lan-Oak Park District, 2550 178th St., Lansing (View Map). More than 50 employers with active job openings will be in attendance. Prior to the Hiring Event, Rep. Kelly will sponsor a free Job Readiness Workshop on Wednesday, October 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., in the Community Room of the Calumet City Public Library, 660 S. Manistee Avenue, Calumet City. Instructors from the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership will teach job-seekers interview etiquette and skills, and how to prepare a resume. Companies and agencies participating in this year’s Hiring Event include UPS, ComEd, Metra Rail, Comcast, and the U.S. Post Office. Job-seekers can register for the Hiring Event and/or the Job Readiness Workshop here. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call Alan Banks or Elise Miller at 708-679-0078, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
League of Women Voters Park Forest Area
Voter Education – Wednesday, October 10
Please join the League of Women Voters Park Forest Area (LWVPFA) for a timely and instructive meeting on Voter Education on Wednesday, October 10. The program will be held at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Library’s Ringering Room. The main speaker will be Mr. Al Sturges, who is a longtime member of the Park Forest Nonpartisan Committee that provide forums for candidates for office in Park Forest. Mr. Sturges will discuss the League of Women Voters Election Guide Site and the League’s online voters’ guide: (“Vote 411”). Also Vote Smart, which provides free unbiased, in depth information about current candidates, their funding, positions on issues, and legislation, will be highlighted. Two league members, Dora Jacks, past Voter Service Chairperson and Deborah Orr, present Voter Service Chairperson, will discuss the logistics of voting in the statewide election to be held on November 6, 2018. For more information contact Jos O Gallagher 708-957-3973. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization which encourages informative and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The LWV encourages citizens to register to vote and provides public education for voters on election issues. The League does not support or oppose any candidate for public office. Anyone interested in promoting responsible government is invited to be a member. For more information visit www.lwvpfa.org.
Park Forest Economic Development and Planning Department
Water Bill Buck Buster – Final Raffle Friday, 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. The final 2018 drawing will be held on Friday, 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 water bill statement.
Park Forest Toastmasters Club
Meeting – Tuesday, October 23
The Park Forest Toastmasters Club will meet on Tuesday, October 23 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.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Park Forest Main Street Market – Every Saturday through October 27
The Park Forest Main Street Market, previously known as the Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday, rain or shine from 7 a.m. to noon through October 27 for shopping, food and entertainment. Along with its new name, the Market has a new location at 152 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. The Market accepts Link/SNAP & Senior Nutrition Coupons. For additional information about the Market, call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118, email [email protected] or the Market’s website.