In and Around Park Forest Week of August 1, 2011

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—August 1, 2011. It’s that time of the year when you can see mom’s smile growing bigger each day and children looking a bit sad as it’s time to register for the upcoming school year. Information about registration for the Matteson 162 school district and Park Forest/Chicago Heights school district 163 can be found in the ‘Educational Lectures & Opportunities’ Section below.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.

Village of Park Forest

Village Meetings

Village Board Meeting – Saturday, August 6

The Village Board will hold a Saturday Morning Rules Meeting on August 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend. Village Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site at www.villageofparkforest.com.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Advisory Boards will meet the week of August 1:

• Tuesday, August 2 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
• Wednesday, August 3 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group
• Thursday, August 4 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
• Thursday, August 4 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission

The meetings will take place at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Village of Park Forest

Main Street Nights – Wednesday, August 3

Main Street Nights, one of Park Forest’s most popular summer events, continues on Wednesday, August 3 in the Park Forest DownTown Village Green located at the intersection of Cunningham and Main Streets. The entertainment is held rain or shine. This week beginning at 7 p.m., the Chicago Boyz Acrobats will perform stunts and tricks inside twirling jump ropes, catapulting off mini trampolines and thundering tumbling routines with incredible timing. At 7:45 p.m., the talented musicians of Park Forest’s very own Muzicnet will perform smooth jazz, blues and gospel.

So grab a blanket, pack a snack, and enjoy some fun entertainment with family and neighbors. For additional information, call the Recreation office at 708-748-2005 or call the recorded message at 708-283-5647 for weather related changes or cancellations. In case of rain, performances will be moved to Dining on the Green, 349 Main St. – adjacent from the Village Green.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

• Tuesday, August 2 at 3:30 p.m. – Wii Games
• Tuesday, August 2 at 7 p.m. – PJ Story time
• Wednesday, August 3 at 10:15 a.m. – LapSit for those 0 – 35 months with caregiver.
• Wednesday, August 3 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art for those 2 – 5 with caregiver.
• Wednesday, August 3 at 6:30 p.m. – Dessert Reception – Summer reading finale for adults only. Bring your favorite summer read to discuss. Raffle to be held at 7 p.m.
• Friday, August 5 at 2:30 p.m. – Movie Day: Kid’s Choice

For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.

Library Closure

The Park Forest Library will be closed Sundays during the summer.

August Senior Trip — Historic Route 66 Tour – Registration Deadline Friday, August 12

On Wednesday, August 24 you can travel the famous Mother Road with award winning Route 66 author, John Weiss. Visit historic sites (Joliet to Pontiac); enjoy a little shopping in a few quaint towns, and look forward to lots of surprises. Be sure to bring your camera. This ‘all inclusive’ tour includes two snack stops, plus a full family style lunch (broasted chicken, vegetable, mashed potatoes, bread, coleslaw, salad, pop, coffee and tea) at the Route 66 Family Restaurant in Dwight, IL. You will learn and feel the history of this magical ribbon of highway as you “Get your kicks on Route 66.” Tickets are $65 and include round-trip coach bus, snacks, lunch, and the tour. The bus will depart from Freedom Hall at 8 a.m. and return at approximately 6 p.m. Purchase tickets at the Recreation & Parks Department at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, or by phone with a credit card by calling 708-748-2005. Mention Code 248370-1.

Salon Artists Gallery, 249 Main St., Park Forest

‘Flowers & Gardens’ Exhibit – Opens Saturday, August 6

An exhibit titled ‘Flowers & Gardens’ will open on Saturday, August 6 and run through Wednesday, August 31. Gallery hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call Pat Moore at 708-833-5108 or Bev Szaton at 708-748-3946.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Summer Music Series at Ravisloe Country Club – Concert #4 ‘Mozart, Mendelssohn, Glazunov’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Imagine a warm summer evening, stars in the sky, and glorious melodies floating above the courtyard of a Spanish villa. Welcome to Summer Music at Ravisloe, an intimate series of summer concerts presented by chamber ensembles of the IPO. On Wednesday August 10 at 7:30 pm, concert #4, the series finale, will be presented by chamber ensembles of the IPO. Selections to be performed include ‘Divertimento in B-flat Major, K. 137’ by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, ‘Quartet in D Major, Op. 44, No. 1’ by Felix Mendelssohn, ‘Novelettes’ by Alexander Glazunov, and tangos.
Ravisloe Country Club is located at 18231 Park Ave., Homewood. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased by calling the IPO Box Office at 708-481-7774 or on-line at: http://ipomusic.org/

Garden Club of Park Forest

Donations Needed to Help Beautify Park Forest Blue Star Marker

In 1945, the National Council of Garden Clubs started the Blue Star Marker project as a way to honor members of the Armed Forces. Signs with big blue stars were purchased by garden clubs and placed in all states along major highways to honor all members and branches of the military. The Blue Star Marker that belongs to the Garden Club of Park Forest was moved last fall to the corner of Orchard Avenue and Lakewood Boulevard – across the street from the Park Forest Library. In cooperation with the Village of Park Forest and American Legion Post #1198, the Park Forest Garden Club has designed new foundations and perennial plantings for this very large site. The first phase of the project will cost $5,000 to implement. If you would like to help with this very worth-while cause, you can make a tax-deductible contribution. Checks should be made out to the Garden Club of Park Forest with ‘Blue Star Marker Project’ written in the memo section and sent to: Loretta Madix, Treasurer, 125 Sycamore, Frankfort, IL 60423.

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

Park Forest House Museum – Every Saturday

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is open Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. It is an original rental townhome decorated as it might have looked from 1946 – 1953 during the first five years of Park Forest. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. For additional information, visit www.parkforesthistory.org or call Jane Nicoll, Museum Director, at 708-481-4252 or email at [email protected].

Bricks from Former Marshall Field’s Store for Sale

Bricks from the former Marshall Field’s Store in DownTown Park Forest are on sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. Bricks are $15 each or two for $25. Each brick comes with a certificate of authenticity and a brief history of the store. Bricks can be purchased at the Museum during Museum hours which are Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information, visit: www.parkforesthistory.org.

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

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Sponsors Autumn Art Odyssey to St. Louis – Registration Deadline Friday, August 12

Art enthusiasts can travel to St. Louis for a weekend of art, architecture, and award-winning design during a September trip sponsored by the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU. The Art Odyssey will depart for St. Louis on Friday, September 9 and return to GSU on Sunday, September 11. The Art Odyssey includes the Fall Preview Reception and Cocktail party at the St. Louis Contemporary Art Museum, and visits to the Mildred Land Kemper Museum, the Laumeier Sculpture Park, the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, and the St. Louis Citygarden. Two art experts will address the group. Travelers will stay two nights at the boutique Moonrise hotel in St. Louis’ fashionable Delmar Loop neighborhood. Sunday brunch and dinner, as well as lunches on Friday and Saturday are included. Cost of the trip is $549 or $659 per person, depending on whether participants want a single or double occupancy hotel room. The price of the trip also includes round trip luxury motorcoach service from either GSU or Valparaiso, Indiana, and all admission fees to museums and other venues. Friday and Saturday night dinners are planned, but optional for an additional charge. The registration deadline is August 12. Additional information about the Art Odyssey can be found at www.govst.edu/sculpture Click on ‘Road Trips’ in the ‘Programs and Events’ section for a link to the Art Odyssey brochure. For additional information about the trip of the sculpture park, call 708-534-4486.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Ragtime The Musical – Through August 7

‘Ragtime,’ based on the best-selling novel by E.L. Doctorow, is the powerful story of three groups of people coming together in early 20th century America – well-off WASPs, African-Americans and Eastern European immigrants. Coalhouse Walker, a brilliant Harlem musician, is at the center of the story, which also includes historical characters like Henry Ford, Booker T. Washington and Harry Houdini. Following its 1998 Broadway debut, ‘Ragtime’ won Tony awards for Best Book and Best Score. ‘Ragtime’ will be performed on Saturday, August 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, August 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $22 for adults and $19 for Seniors and Students. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

Opera Up Close Lyric Opera Preview — Tickets Now on Sale

On Sunday, September 18 at 4 p.m. you can add some grandeur to your afternoon with this preview event of the Lyric Opera’s 57th season. Singers from Lyric Opera of Chicago perform selections from the upcoming 2011-2012 Lyric season, including highlights from: Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann, Verdi’s Aida, Jerome Kern’s Showboat, and more. Viennese pastries and coffee will be offered during this intimate performance on The Center’s stage. Tickets are $37. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, August 4

CAUTION will be playing every Thursday night beginning at 9 p.m. at Harte’s Saloon, 9858 S. Artesian. If you are a fan of the Grateful Dead, Phish and great musical jams, check out this band. For more information, call Harte’s Saloon at 708-424-2618.

Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights

“Voyages” a Solo Exhibit by Sergio Gomez – Through August 6

USG is proud to present “Voyages,” a one-man exhibit of drawings and paintings by Sergio Gomez. The exhibit will run through August 6. The exhibition is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-754- 2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org

Monkey Mind Art Studio, 3 West Nebraska St., Frankfort

Call for Artists for "Off the Wall for Fall" Exhibit –Application Deadline Monday, August 15

Monkey Mind Art Gallery is currently looking for artists to show in their “Off the Wall for Fall” exhibit that will take place September 1 through September 24 during the downtown Frankfort Fall Fest. Application and a detailed prospectus must be submitted no later than Monday, August 15. For additional e-mail [email protected]. Click for Application, in excel Application in word  and detailed prospectus.

“The Meaning of Things” by Jeff Stevenson –Through Sunday, August 28

“The Meaning of Things,” a mixed media assemblage art work by Jeff Stevenson will run through Sunday, August 28. A closing reception will be held Sunday, August 28 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. . For additional information or gallery hours, call 815-464-8818 or visit www.monkeymindartstudio.com.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

School Registration for 2011 – 2012 School Year

Matteson School District 162 Registration

In-person student registration for Matteson School District 162’s 2011-2012 school year will be held at the District Office, 4601 Sauk Trail, Richton Park, on the following days:

Monday	August 8th	8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.	6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday	August 9th	8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.	6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday	August 10th	8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.	6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Until August 10, fee totals include:

Early Childhood and kindergarten through third grade: $78

Grades 4-6: $81

Grades 7-8: $91

Fees paid after August 11 or later:

Early Childhood and kindergarten through third grade: $88

Grades 4-6: $91

Grades 7-8: $100

PTO/PTL fees per PTO are $10 at all grade levels.

Student registration fees for returning students may be mailed or dropped off at the District Office, 4601 Sauk Trail in Richton Park. Families should include the Student Registration Fee Form with their payment. New students to the district may register at their school, the district office, or at the In-Person Student Registration. All checks or money orders should be made payable to Matteson School District 162. A single check or money order may be used for an entire family.

Fees may also be paid online with VISA and MasterCard using the District 162 webstore, which is on the school district website: www.sdl62.org

General information concerning registration and fee payment for the 2011-2012 school year is available by calling the Matteson School District Office at (708) 748-0100. Any person with special circumstances that may require individual attention such as payment plans, partial waivers, or similar circumstances may utilize the hours noted above or may contact the school district business office to set up an appointment after August 10, 2011.

Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 Registration

Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163’s registration for the 2011-2012 school year is under way at Forest Trail Middle School, 215 Wilson Street, Park Forest.

Families must bring competed registration packets to Forest Trail on Wednesday, August 3, from 9:00 a.m. – noon and 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Registration for new students and kindergarten students is Wednesday, August 17, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Questions regarding registration should be directed to (708) 668-9408. The first day of school is Thursday, August 25.

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

Information Session for Master of Public Administration Program – Thursday, August 4

On Thursday, August 4, GSU will host an information session for prospective students interested in the Master of Public Administration Program. A presentation will begin at 5 p.m. and GSU representatives will accept applications and answer questions from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring official or unofficial transcripts for review. The graduate application fee will be waived for students who apply to the program at the event. This information session is free and open to the public and will be held at South Suburban College University Center, 16333 S. Kilbourn Ave., Oak Forest, Il. For additional information, call 708-534-4088.

 ‘High Performance Computing and Innovation Cluster Workshop’ – Monday, August 8 — Registration Required

GSU is sponsoring an informative, free seminar, ‘High Performance Computing and Innovation Cluster Workshop’ on Monday, August 8 from 8 a.m. to noon in the Hall of Honors. This workshop will provide an opportunity for representatives of small to medium businesses in the Chicago Southland to learn what cloud computing is and how it can benefit their businesses. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from experts in business, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies. Topics to be discussed include technology innovation, cloud computing, and cloud computing security. For additional information, call Dr. Steve Shih at 708-534-4547 or e-mail [email protected]. Advance registration is required at www.gsucloudcomputing.eventbrite.com.

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday at GSU

The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3P30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leonard Robinson Family Services Center, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park. Participants will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet skills, résumé building skills, and more. Classes are open only to residents of Rich Township. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.

Green Events

Park Forest Farmers Market

The Farmers’ Market will be held each Saturday through October, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to 12 noon in the Holiday Star Theater parking lot (across the street from the Park Forest Police Department). Enjoy fresh produce, locally grown and just picked, organic produce, cheese, bakery goods along with an array of plants for your garden. In addition, the Park Forest Environment Commission will be on hand on the first Saturday of each month selling rain barrels.

Healthy Living

Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Community Nutrition Network (CNN) site located inside the Rich Township’s Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 11 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

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

School Physicals for 2011 – 2012 School Year

Preschool, Kindergarten, Sixth and Ninth Grade children of Park Forest and the surrounding area can get a school physical for the 2011 – 2012 school year at the Park Forest Health Department. Parents must bring child’s immunization record at appointment time. For additional information and the dates/times when school physicals will be given, visit: www.villageofparkforest.com/index.php?src=events&srctype=profile&refno=12266

Walk-In Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. For fee information or questions, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

Babies, teens and adult immunization and flu and pneumonia clinics will be held on Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details or to schedule an appointment, call 708-748-1118. The Health Department is a low cost provider for children and adult immunizations.

Blood Pressure Screening

A free Blood Pressure Clinic is held at the Park Forest Health Department Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Walk in or call ahead at 708-748-1118.

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

Free Counseling Services Available

Today, individuals and families face economic and social pressures as well as communication difficulties that frequently disrupt family unity and the ability to cope. Counseling is one of the most important tools for understanding and coping. Free, individual, family and vocational counseling is available through GSU’s Division of Psychology and Counseling as part of its training program for advanced graduate counseling students. Faculty members, who are also licensed counselors, supervise the sessions. Counseling sessions are conducted on campus in total confidentiality. For more information, call 708-534-4545 or visit www.govst.edu/counselinglab.

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 programs 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.

This & That

Park Forest Commission on Human Relations

Nominations for Good Egg Award – Nominations Due Friday, August 12

The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations is looking for people who have gone beyond the call of duty for the Good Egg Award. The award honors youth and adults who have made an extraordinary commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities through human relations and human rights advocacy. The deadline for nominations is Friday, August 12. To request a nomination form, contact Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or e-mail [email protected].

Wine & Chocolate Tasting – Tickets Now on Sale

A Wine and Chocolate Tasting will take place on Friday, August 12 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 300 Victory Dr., Park Forest. Tickets are priced at $20 each and can be purchased at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. For additional information, call Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or e-mail [email protected].

Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest

Free Java Tuesdays

All are invited to Faith United Protestant Church for FREE Java Tuesdays. Visitors are asked to go to the Indianwood Boulevard side entrance between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. for free curbside service or to come and sit a bit. The event will continue each Tuesday as a form of outreach to the community throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call 708-747-1330.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St., Park Forest

Refreshing Times Senior’s Ministry – Friday, August 5

On Friday, August 5 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., adults 55 and older are invited to join us for this monthly support fellowship that combines food, interactive Christian Bible study, informative workshops, arts and crafts and birthday celebrations. This event is held on the first Friday of each month. For additional information, call Mattie Morgan at 708-503-6536.

Rainbow Café

Monthly Meeting – Saturday, August 6

The Rainbow Café is an opportunity for single or partnered gays, lesbians, bisexuals or other sexual minorities, and their allies, over age 18 to meet one another and socialize in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Those attending are encouraged to bring some non-alcoholic drinks and a dessert or snack to pass, or bring a financial donation. However, neither is mandatory.

The Rainbow Café is held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the 1st Saturday of each month at the Unitarian-Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore, Park Forest.

Garden Club of Park Forest

"A Gardener’s Cookbook"

To celebrate their 55th anniversary, the Park Forest Garden Club offers this cookbook filled with memories, gardening tips, flowery sayings and of course recipes. Makes a great gift. All proceeds go to the club and are used toward community contributions. Cookbooks are $9 and are available at the Park Forest Recreation and Parks Department, 350 Victory Drive. Call 708-748-2005 for additional information.

Cook County Commission Holding Low-Cost Rabies Vaccine & Microchip Clinics

Cook County Commissioner Joan Patricia Murphy is currently sponsoring clinics that provide low-cost rabies vaccines and microchips for dogs, cats and ferrets. The clinics are for Cook County residents only and will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at various locations throughout the County. Vaccines and microchips will be provided for dogs and cats for $7 for a one-year vaccine; $21 for a three-year vaccine; $9 for ferrets one-year vaccine; and $10 for microchip identification. Mobile clinic services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Pet owners must present a valid Driver’s License or State ID as proof of residency. For public safety, all pets must be leashed or caged at all times. For additional information, including a listing of dates and locations, or for transportation assistance, click here.

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

"Operation Hero Miles" collects unused frequent flyer miles to help military families visit service members who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are recovering in military hospitals around the world. Airline partners are: AirTran, Alaska Airlines, American, Frontier, Midwest, Northwest, United, and US Airways. To donate airline miles, visit www.FisherHouse.org.

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

The Village of Park Forest is currently seeking the names and addresses of local military personnel currently serving overseas so that they may receive packaged donations from Park Forest residents. If you are a Park Forest resident and have a family member from your household currently deployed or if you have recently returned from a tour of duty, please call Judi Lancaster at 708-283-5608 or stop by the Manager’s Office at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.

Greening of Park Forest

Sertoma Centre, Inc., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

If you have a used motorized wheelchair that you no longer need and would like to help a person with a disability, the Sertoma Centre will accept your donation. Contact Melanie Jones at 708-730-6206 for additional information.

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) is seeking cell phone donations for their ongoing fundraising program. Proceeds from the collection fund the critical programs and services provided to families who experience domestic violence. All victim services are provided free of charge and are available in English and Spanish. Cell phone collection sites currently include:

• SSFS Administrative Office, 18139 Harwood, Homewood, IL
• Bergstein’s NY Deli, 200 Dixie Highway, Chicago Heights, IL
• Doyle Designed Salon, 2630 Flossmoor Rd., Flossmoor, IL

All donations are tax deductible and receipts are available at collection sites. For more information about SSFS or the fundraising drive, please contact Ms. Meilach at 708-794-2140, extension 303.

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

Do you have old televisions, computers, video games or other electronics or household appliances that need to be recycled? Want to know how to properly dispose of old or unused medication? Click on the "Recycling" icon found on the top of eNews Park Forest and you will find useful information on proper recycling/disposal that will not only be good for the environment, but in some cases, earn you a few dollars as well.

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

The Park Forest Health Department and Environment Commission have partnered to provide information on the proper disposal of bio-waste such as used syringes or lancets (medical sharps). Begin by purchasing a Sharps container to dispose of your medical sharps for $10 at the Park Forest Health Department. Return the filled container to the Park Forest Health Department and purchase a new container. Call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118 for more information.

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is conducting a used cell phone and accessory collection drive to benefit the families and programs of the South Suburban Family Shelter. Donated items can be placed in the collection box located in the lobby of Village Hall. For more information, call Denyse Carreras at 708-283-5603.

Sources: Park Forest 2011 Summer Recreation Programs & More Brochure; Rich Township Report; Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., CAUTION, Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.