Glen Rosenquist (L) and John Wisnewski ready to serve at the St. Irenaeus stand at the Park Forest Farmers Market. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—May 19, 2014. If you’re curious about the status of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the League of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area will host a meeting on this and other Health System Reform Initiatives impacting Cook County and the state of Illinois on Wednesday, May 21, at 7:00 PM at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard. The speaker will be David Carvalho, who is a deputy director for the Illinois Department of Public Health, overseeing the Office of Policy, Planning and Statistics and chair of the Board of the Cook County Health and Hospitals System. Carvalho will discuss the status of ACA implementation in Illinois. Additional information about the event can be found in the ‘Healthy Living’ section.
If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.
Village of Park Forest
Village Hall Closure – Monday, May 26
Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Monday, May 26 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.
Village Board Meetings – Monday, May 19
The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, May 19 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) as well as on the Village web site here.
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site hereand click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.
Village Commission & Advisory Boards
The following Park Forest Advisory Board is scheduled to meet the week of May 19:
- Tuesday, May 20 at 7 p.m. – Recreation and Parks Advisory Board
The meeting will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Arts & Entertainment
DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago
Quilt Show ‘From Heart to Hand’ – Through June 22
DePaul University’s Art Museum will unveil a new exhibition, “From Heart to Hand,” will run through June 22 featuring 23 quilts produced by African-American women. Originally organized by the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in Alabama, the exhibition demonstrates that quilts are not just household goods, but are also a means of personal expression. While quilting has been around in various forms for centuries, Louise Lincoln, Museum Director, explains that it was approximately 15 years ago that the contemporary art world “discovered” the distinctive work of the women in the town of Gee’s Bend, Alabama, who created quilts with intricate patterns that resembled abstract paintings. As the Gee’s Bend artists have become famous, quilt exhibitions have grown in popularity and have been featured in major museums, including the Whitney Museum in New York. The collection on display at DePaul Art Museum will include examples from Gee’s Bend, as well as other styles and subjects from the region of western Alabama, giving viewers rich insight on tradition and community. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/PUx4cp. The DePaul Art Museum at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 773-325-7506 or visit www.depaul.edu/museum.
DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine Avenue, Chicago
‘What Happened in Pinkville? A Cubist Dialectic on the Massacre at My Lai’ – Previews May 14 & 15, Opens May 16
‘What Happened in Pinkville? A Cubist Dialectic on the Massacre at My Lai’ by Greg Allen (Founder, The Neo-Futurists) will open at the Theatre School of DePaul University on the Fullerton Stage Theatre through May 25. This world-premiere play tells the true story of an American-military atrocity: the massacre of 500 civilians in a small village during the Vietnam War. By exploring the history, the murders, the cover-up and the trial of Lieutenant William Calley, playwright Greg Allen asks the question, “Who is responsible for soldiers’ actions during wartime?” A dramatic examination of war atrocities and their far-reaching implications, this production features the Class of 2014 Master of Fine Arts in Acting candidates and is directed by Remy Bumppo Founder, James Bohnen. This production is recommended for mature audiences. For patrons who are blind or have low-vision, the performance of “What Happened in Pinkville? A Cubist Dialectic on the Massacre at My Lai” will open on Friday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m. The performance will include audio description as well as a pre-performance touch tour. Call 312-922-1999. The performance on May 25 at 2 p.m. will be interpreted in American Sign Language. TTY: 773-325-7975. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. General admissions tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10 and student tickets are $5. Subscriptions and group rates (six or more people) are available at 312-922-1999. All tickets are reserved seating. Tickets are available by calling 312- 922-1999 or by visiting the online box office at www.theatre.depaul.edu. The Fullerton Stage Theatre and the Sondra & Denis Healy Theatre are located within The Theatre School at DePaul University, 2350 N. Racine Ave. at Fullerton Avenue. The school is easily accessible via the Fullerton CTA Station and the Fullerton (74) bus. Call the box office for additional transit suggestions or visit the Chicago Transit Authority for specific routes from your location. Visitors and audience members can park in DePaul University’s Clifton Parking Deck, located at 2330 N. Clifton Ave. Please call the Box Office for more information.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
IPO Chamber Players String Trio – Tickets Now on Sale
On Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m., the IPO’s annual series of chamber music concerts at the idyllic Ravisloe Country Club, 18231 S. Park Avenue, Homewood, returns for another season. Join friends, superb IPO musicians, and guest artists for diverse and entertaining concerts in one of the most relaxing settings imaginable. General admission tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at https://secure.ticketsage.net/websales.aspx?u=ipo&pid=261734. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
Surrealism and War – Opens Memorial Day, May 26
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2014, the National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM) will honor Memorial Day with the opening reception of, an exhibition of veterans’ artwork that explores the relationship between surrealism and the experience of war. Surrealism and War includes the seminal work “The Earth Lies Screaming” by Jim Leedy, a Korean War veteran who was one of only two Americans invited to participate in the largest Surrealist exhibition ever assembled at the Retretti Art Center, Finland, an exhibition that began with Miro, Dali, and DuChamp, and culminated with several works by Mr. Leedy. Surrealism is an attempt to revolt against the inherent contradictions of a society ruled by rational thought while dominated by war and oppression. Surrealism seeks expression of thought in the absence of all control exercised by reason and free of aesthetic and moral preoccupation. It is this same absence of control exercised by reason that many combat veterans seek to explore and express after their experiences in war. Surrealism and War features the artwork of nine veteran artists that intentionally and unintentionally use and explore Surrealist processes and concepts. Featured artists include Korean War veteran Jim Leedy, Vietnam War veterans William Dugan, Stan Gillett, Michael Helbing, and Richard Yohnka, Gulf War veteran Ehren Tool, Kosovo veteran Giuseppe Pellicano, and Iraq War veterans David Keefe and Robynn Murray. The NVAM is pleased to welcome veterans, military family members, artists, and the general public to join the artists for the Memorial Day Opening, Monday May 26, 2014. Admission to the NVAM will be free from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. A Color Guard will take place at 11 a.m. and artist talks will commence at 2 p.m. will be on display from May 26, 2014 to November 1, 2014. The National Veterans Art Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. For group admission reservations, call the Museum at 312/326-0270 or visit www.nvam.org. Patrons of the museum can access art from the permanent collection and biographical information on the artists through the NVAM Collection Online, a recently launched online and high-resolution archive of every piece of art in the museum’s permanent collection. The NVAM Collection Online can be found at www.nvam.org.
Espirit de Corps Exhibition – Through August 1, 2014
NVAM is celebrating its first anniversary in its Milwaukee Avenue location with its art exhibition, Esprit de Corps, an exhibition highlighting the spirit of creative resilience. Esprit de Corps features art by nine veterans of Vietnam, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror. The NVAM will be free and open to the public through August 1, 2014. Esprit de Corps is sponsored by Omicron, Bank of America and Paratech Incorporated. Drawing on breakthroughs in using art to assist with reintegration of veterans and for therapeutic expression, Esprit de Corps traces the process and roles of therapeutic art from the act of initial perception through expression of experience to an ultimate communal sharing and understanding of the real impact of war. Featured artists include Joseph Fornelli, Jerry Frech, Jonathan Hancock, Peter Sullivan, Benjamin Suarez, Thomas Gilbertson, Theodore Gostas, Richard Williams and Erica Slone. High resolution images of work in the show are available through the NVAM’s Dropbox. For additional information and hours, visit the museum’s website at www.nvam.org.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
kids’ zone Museum of Science and Industry Family Day – Saturday, June 7
Hey kids, don’t miss out! Join us for Family Day at the Museum of Science and Industry on June 7, 2014. Admission is FREE and transportation to and from the library will be provided. Please limit registrations to 4 per family. All children must be accompanied by a guardian. If registered, you will be contacted with complete details at a later date. Click here to register.
This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Public Library
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Public Library:
- Tuesday, May 20 at 3:30 p.m. — Teen Civic Art & Engagement — Create and participate in civic art projects. Dining on the Green is located in downtown Park Forest at 349 Main St.
- Wednesday, May 21 at 3: 30 p.m. — Teen Zone at Forest Trail — Area youth are invited to participate in this popular drop-in program. Activities include ping pong, air hockey, pool and open gym. This program is open to all students 7th through 9th grade. NOTE: This program will be held at the Forest Trail Middle School, 215 Wilson Street, Park Forest.
- Thursday, May 22 at 10: 30 a.m. — kids’ zone Story Hour — Parents and children of all ages will join us for songs and stories during this one hour program.
- Thursday, May 22 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Civic Art & Engagement — Create and participate in civic art projects. Dining on the Green is located in downtown Park Forest at 349 Main St.
- Thursday, May 22 at 7 p.m. — Knit Lit Presents Karen DeWitt’s The Bunco Club — Please join us for a delightful evening
with the author of The Bunco Club: Karen DeWitt. Bring your book, your knitting and your quilting! Visit Karen DeWitt’s Blog
For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org/
Library Closures
The Park Forest Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 25 and Monday, May 26 in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday.
Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest
Step Back Into the 1950s at the Park Forest House Museum
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 141 Forest Blvd, Park Forest, is open Wednesday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The museum can also be open for groups by appointment, at other times. Donation is Adults $5; Children 12 & under free with an adult. Scout and school tours are priced individually. For details, to arrange a special group tour, or to volunteer, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252.
Park Forest Plaza Print for Sale
Annabelle Gould’s print of the Park Forest Plaza is available for sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. The vibrant print is from an original watercolor, showing kids and their moms in the Park Forest Plaza, in front of the old Holiday Theatre and Golden Hanger Shop. The print can be purchased at the House Museum during normal hours of operation on Wednesdays and Saturdays or through the Society’s online store on their website at www.parkforesthistory.org. Prints are $15 each. Online purchases also required an additional $6 fee for postage and handling. For additional information on other items for sale by the Society, visit www.parkforesthistory.org.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
‘Graduate Exhibition +2’—Through May 21
PSC students is on display through Wednesday, May 21, in the Christopher Art Gallery, located on the PSC main campus. ‘Graduate Exhibition +2’ features works that include drawings, paintings, photography, and mixed-media pieces by the students, who are completing degrees in fine arts, graphic communications, and photography. Works by two additional artists, Irene Ganas and Annabelle Mullennix, also is featured. PSC student artists whose work will be featured in the exhibit are Joshua Joyce of Richton Park, Karalyne Murray of Beecher, Devyn Foster of Olympia Fields, Charles Beard of Chicago Heights, Annabelle Mullennix of Matteson, Irene Ganas of Crete, Brittany Ivy of Homewood, Keli Panega of Steger, Ashieka Daniels of Flossmoor, and Beatriz Romero of Sauk Village. The Christopher Art Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Visits also can be made by appointment. For more information about the exhibit or to make an appointment for a visit, call 708-709-3636.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
‘Bob at Large’ – Artists’ Reception on Friday, May 23
‘Bob at Large,’ an exhibit of work by Bob Gramberg will be shown through May 30. Come meet Mr. Gramberg and enjoy his new art during a reception that will be held on Friday, May 23 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with music and refreshments. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information and Gallery hours, call 708-833-5108.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Identity Interpreted and Assumed: Self Portrait’ – Opening Reception Friday, May 23
Tall Grass Arts Association’s next exhibition is ‘Identity Interpreted and Assumed: Self Portrait’ which opens on Friday, May 23 and will run through July 12. An Opening Reception will be held at the Gallery on Friday, May 23 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. where you can view the work and meet may of the artists. A Coffee and Conversation with Ruth Crnkovich will be held on Saturday, May 24 at 11 a.m. at the Gallery. The exhibit, reception and Saturday event are free and open to the public. Juror Ruth Crnkovich selected works from 38 artists from around the country who have explored through direct representation and expressive interpretation the self-portrait as a symbol for identity. Crnkovich, well-known in our region for her roles as director and curator at galleries such as South Shore Arts, The Vietnam Veterans Museum, and our own Tall Grass Gallery, is also a respected art appraiser, and she has chosen works that range from literal portraits to mythical role-playing to symbolic meditations on how the artists see themselves. Artists included are: Jamilah Adebesin Mason, Marjorie Anderson, Dale Augustson, Sabine Betschart, Chris Cicala, Catherine Danae, Leonard Ferris, Lynn Garwood, Janet Glazar, Karen Anne Glick, John Gutierrez, Margi Hafer, Linda Lane Haynes, Mike Helbing, Gregg Hertzlieb, Jeanine Hill-Soldner, Fran Hollander, chawne kimber, Kim Laurel, Laura Lein-Svencner, Jean Lewis, Mikelle Lindsey, Carol Luc, Susan Mahan, Claudia McCarthy, Jennifer Meyer, Mary Lou Novak, Alison Oakes, Joseph Perryman, Alicia Post, Mark Reed, Don Sala, and Liz Clayton Scofield. For additional information please visit the Tall Grass website www.tallgrassarts.org or call the Gallery at 708-748-3377.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
‘War on Whistleblowers’ Film Screening – Friday, May 23
UUCC will screen the documentary film ‘War on Whistleblowers’ on Friday, May 23 at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. ‘War on Whistleblowers’ looks at four whistleblowers (before Edward Snowden) who had their lives practically destroyed after they went to the press with evidence of government wrongdoing. How our government should handle whistleblowing will be just one of the issues talked about in the lively discussion following the film. Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. Bring a snack to share if you wish. Optional donations appreciated. Please Note: the potluck dinners previously held before the movie have been discontinued. UUCC is located just east of Western Avenue, south of Steger Road. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday at GSU
The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights
Opt In to Technology at PSC
You can bridge the gap between technology and a new you at PSC’s new Opt In program that consists of two computer training centers and free classes to teach basic technological skills. One location is at the Adult Training and outreach Center in Room A145 at PSC’s main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The other location is at the Matteson Area Center’s Computer Training Lab located at 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson. Hours for this location are Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. No matter what skill level you have or want to have, Opt In can help. Both computer labs and on-site tutors are free and open to the public. For additional information, call Lisa Zeigler at 708-709-3548 or e-mail [email protected].
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 12 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.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
Summer Basketball Camp – Registration Now in Progress
The SSC Basketball Program is now accepting registrations for their summer camps in June. The Bulldogs will host two camps–a Championship Basketball Camp from June 16th through June 19th from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and a Championship Shooting Camp from June 23rd through 26th from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the SSC Fitness Center/Fieldhouse. The camps are designed for Boys and Girls ages 7 – 17, and will be directed by Head Coach John Pigatti and players from the 2014 Bulldog Basketball Team. The cost of the Shooting Camp is $60 and the Basketball Camp is $105, with a special price of $140 for both camps. Campers will need shorts, basketball shoes, and a T-shirt or practice uniform. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase every day of the camps. The main goal of these camps is to provide each individual with an opportunity to become a better player and to have some fun along the way. In order to accomplish these goals, the emphasis will be on the fundamentals of basketball. The 2014 SSC Men’s Basketball Team finished 7th at the National Junior Conference Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament with a final record of 31-6. Coach Pigatti brings over 20 years of college coaching experience from a well-rounded background. He was also the head coach of the Five Star Basketball Post Development Camp where he instructed several top 100 high school players in the country. Pigatti has received six Region IV-A Coach of the Year Awards and has been named IBCA Coach of the Year. For more information, or to register for the Basketball Camps, please contact Coach Pigatti at 708-596-2000, ext. 2524 or email [email protected]. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
Consumer Wellness Advocate Certification Training Workshop – Registration Required by June 1
SSC’s Business & Career Institute (BCI) is hosting Consumer Wellness Advocate (CWA) Certification Training for individuals who wish to gain the tools to promote wellness at home and in the workplace. This unique program will be facilitated by Alexandra Glumac, MS, NCC, LCPC, RDDP, CWA, BCI Client Solutions Specialist. The CWA Training will take place in the Heritage Room on the 1st Floor of SSC’s Main Campus, on Thursday, June 19th from 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon, with registration and continental breakfast starting at 8:15 a.m. The CWA certification training is available for anyone ages 18 or older (college degree not required) who work in the fields of health and fitness, human resources, corporate wellness or education, or simply anyone who has a desire to make a difference in the community. The program is composed of one half-day comprehensive workshop culminating with a certificate of completion and certification. Additional benefits include an interactive program workbook, an innovative personal well-being profile “The Rating of Perceived Wellness,” official status as a certified CWA on the Wellness Registry and membership in the online CWA Network. The cost is $299 with advance registration by June 1st, or $349 thereafter. Reservations and payments are required by 5:00 p.m. on June 18th. Checks, Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted. Please call (708) 596-2000 ext. 2346 or email [email protected] for more information or to register. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, IL. SSC’s Business & Career Institute serves as a regional headquarters for workforce preparation, employee training, business development and technology deployment. BCI provides training, consulting, and economic and business development resources for the Chicago Southland. For their efforts, BCI has been recognized as a High Performance Business & Industry Center by the Center for Adult and Experiential Learning, among other accolades.
College for Kids & Day Camp Summer Programs at SSC – Registration Now in Progress
SSC’s Continuing Education Department is offering courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will entertain and challenge children and young adults. The majority of the College for Kids classes scheduled for this summer will begin the week of June 16th at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland and Oak Forest Center. In addition, SSC will offer a Jam Session Day Camp for $329, beginning on June 30, 2014. This four-week summer school program is less than $5 per hour for academics and fun enrichment programs three days a week. Math will consist of review and instruction of the basic arithmetic skills. In addition to Reading and Math, students will enjoy a variety of other stimulating activities, such as Spanish and Art.
The following Learning Enrichment Classes will be offered for preschoolers at a cost of $39 each:
Jump Start on Reading
Reading Readiness
ABC’s and 123’s
Dr. Seuss and Mother Goose
Jump Start on Kindergarten
The following classes will be offered for elementary school kids for $69 each:
Well Written Essays
Study Skills
Fun with Phonics
Grammar No Problem
Reading, Accelerated or Refresher
Math Refresher
Pre-Algebra
Spanish
The following high school classes will be offered for $69 each:
Written Essays
Study Skills
Introduction to Algebra
Pre-Algebra/Geometry
Conversational Spanish
Students with classes totaling $100 or more may be eligible for the FACTS deferred tuition payment plan. Visit “Continuing Education” online at www.ssc.edu for a complete listing of classes, or call 708- 596-2000, extension 2231.
Online Educational Resources
Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.
Top U.S. Universities
Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At http://www.topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.
Healthy Living
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Free Psychotherapy Available from GSU’s Psychology Program
GSU’s Psychology Department is offering free psychotherapy services to members of the community. Conversations with a psychotherapist can help people cope with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transition problems. Confidential, one-on-one sessions are held with a GSU graduate student in psychology under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Individuals and couples, 18 years and older, are eligible. All sessions are conducted in Matteson, IL. The number of sessions is determined by the client’s needs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-235-2841.
League of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area
Implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Cook County & Health System Reform Initiatives – Wednesday, May 21
The League of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area will host a meeting on Implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Cook County and Illinois and Health System Reform Initiatives on Wednesday, May 21, at 7:00 PM at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard. The speaker will be David Carvalho, who is a deputy director for the Illinois Department of Public Health, overseeing the Office of Policy, Planning and Statistics. He is also chair of the Board of the Cook County Health and Hospitals System. Carvalho will discuss the status of ACA implementation in Illinois, including CountyCare, Medicaid expansion and the Health Insurance Exchange, the "Alliance for Health" system reform initiative, the Section 1115 Waiver Application, and other Public Health initiatives. The meeting is open to the public and anyone interested in the topic is encouraged to attend to learn more about how the Affordable Care Act is being implemented in Illinois. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization which encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. 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 about the program or membership in the League, please contact Mary Lubertozzi, 708-747-1359.
Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street, Alsip
Free Community Education and Prevention Programs about Mental Health
Sertoma Centre’s Mental Health Services facility is offering community mental health seminars, free of charge to community groups, schools, law enforcement agencies, religious organizations, and other community groups at their location in Matteson or facility. Education Programs will include: Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) which increases public awareness of suicide and improves one’s ability to identify and refer those at risk for suicide. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education course that helps participants identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. Also included is Mental Health First Aid for Youth and Anxiety/Depression Screenings. Thanks to a grant, these educational opportunities are available at no cost to you or your organization. To arrange a free educational opportunity for your club, group, workplace, organization, or church, call Gia Washington at 708-748-1951, Ext. 418 or email at [email protected].
Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest
CPR Classes
CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: http://pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html
Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest
Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café
Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Rich Township Senior Café located inside the Rich Township’s Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 10 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.
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.
Green Events
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Wednesday Morning Walkers – May 21
On Wednesday, May 21 at 9 a.m., enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on Thorn Creek’s winding trails. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderator. The Wednesday morning walks will continue each week and walkers new to the program must register two days before they first hike. For additional information, please call 708-747-6320 or e-mail [email protected].
Women of the Woods: A Nature Retreat – Registration Required by May 29
Celebrate the beauty of the summer woods in a program for women only, Women of the Woods: A Nature Retreat on Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Discover the naturalist in you as you explore the woods, observing birds and insects, identifying trees and flowers, following tracks and much more. The fee is $5 per person and registration is required by Thursday, May 29. For additional information or to register, please call 708-747-6320 or e-mail [email protected].
Thorn Creek Chamber Players Concert – Friday, May 30
As spring arrives come celebrate the woods with a concert by Ingrid Krizan and the Thorn Creek Chamber Players on Friday, May 30 at 7 p.m. at Thorn Creek Nature Center. Cellist Ingrid Krizan, bassist Julian Pat Romane and the Thorn Creek Chamber Players will perform in the warm wooded acoustics of our 1860’s nature center building. Ingrid is a classically trained professional cellist who weaves seasonal nature narratives into her music. Bringing this music, these ideas and live performances to a wide audience are her passions. Her unique “Bach & I” performances are very popular in the area and particularly at our Thorn Creek music events All proceeds will directly benefit Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve and Nature Center. Join us for a fun evening as the music echoes through the woods. Refreshments will be provided. Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased by Wednesday, May 28. Cost is $10 per person. Program is for those age 12 years and older. Note that this event has been changed from a date earlier in May. For more information or to register call 708-747-6320 or email [email protected]. The nature center is open Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. and trails are open daily, dawn to dusk. Visit our new website: 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.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Clothing, Shoe Recycling at Park Forest Farmers’ Market Beginning June 14
The Park Forest Farmers’ Market will now offer clothing and shoe recycling services from 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday through September. The dates when accepted items may be dropped off are:
– June 14
– July 12
– August 9
– September 13
USAgain, a green, for-profit company committed to protecting the environment, conserving resources, and creating green sector jobs through the collection of textiles for reuse and recycling, has agreed to collect residents’ old shoes and clothing at the Market. Items dropped off will be diverted from landfills to be re-worn, reused or recycled – reducing the carbon footprint of residents. Accepted items include men’s, women’s and kids’ shoes, boots and clothing as well as gloves, hats, bags, purses and belts. Sheets, blankets, drapes and towels are also welcome. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays, May through October, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is located at 271 Lakewood Blvd, just across from the Park Forest Police Department. To learn more, call 708-748-1118.
Park Forest 41st Annual Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday through October 25
Park Forest’s 41st Annual Farmers’ Market will take place every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 25. The Market is located across the street from the Park Forest Police Station, 271 Lakewood Boulevard. The Market offers fresh vegetables, fruits, organic breads, salsa, specialty produce, garden bedding plants, perennials, garden ornaments, Amish butter, cheese and pies. A variety of food vendors, jewelry and oils will also be available for purchase. The Market accepts SNAP/Link cards, Senior Nutrition coupons and WIC. For additional information about the Farmers’ Market, call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118, email [email protected] or visit www.villageofparkforest.com.
This & That
Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Matteson
Youth Summit and Job Expo Saturday, May 31 – Preregistration Required
Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) is hosting a Youth Summit and Job Expo on Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy, located at 250 E. 111th St., Chicago. The Summit will offer participants between the ages of 15 and 21 opportunities for summer jobs, internships, career exploration and access to youth programs, as well as sessions on job readiness, financial literacy and social media responsibility. Exhibitors include Nike, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, Blue 1647, Villa, Project SYNCERE, Millhouse Construction and the Chicago Urban League. We expect many other agencies and businesses to participate. Interested young men and women must be job-ready and between the ages of 15 and 21. Pre-registration is required at http://repkellyyouthsummit.eventbrite.com. Space is limited and registration is on a first-come basis. For more information, call Rep. Kelly’s District Office at 773-568-2623, or visit www.robinkelly.house.gov.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Secretary of State Services at GSU – Tuesday, May 20
The Secretary of State’s Mobile Service Unit will be at Governors State University on Tuesday, May 20, from 1 to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. Services available at the mobile service unit include driver’s license and State ID renewal, replacement, and corrections; vehicle sticker sales; passenger and b-truck license plates; vehicle title and registration; parking placards for persons with disabilities; and organ/tissue donor information. In addition, vision tests and the written driver’s license exam can be taken. No driving tests will be given. The services provided are available to all qualified Illinois residents. State law allows driver’s license renewal up to one year in advance. Proper identification is required for new and duplicate driver’s licenses and state ID cards. Acceptable forms of payment include personal checks, cash, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit and debit cards. For information, visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com.
Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights
Friday Fish Fry
Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, May 23 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
PSC Foundation Annual Scholarship Classic Golf & Tennis Outing – June 2
The PSC Foundation is hosting the 21st Annual Scholarship Classic on Monday, June 2, 2014. All proceeds from the event will benefit student scholarships at PSC. Breaking tradition, participants of this year’s event have the opportunity to choose between a golf outing at Idlewild Country Club in Flossmoor or a tennis clinic and tournament at Olympia Fields County Club in Olympia Fields. The cost for the golf outing is $200 per golfer, and includes an 11 a.m. grilled lunch in the clubhouse and driving range warm-ups, followed by a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start scramble that includes a cart, contests, and beverages. The scramble will be followed by a 5:30 p.m. cocktail half hour and 6 p.m. buffet dinner and awards presentation. Golfers may also purchase the Diploma Games package for $50, which includes participation in a hole-in-one contest for $5,000 to the first successful contestant, a two-game scratch card, three mulligans (not on hole 3 or 12), and more. All participants in the golf outing also have the opportunity to win a hole-in-one contest sponsored by Arnie Bauer Buick Cadillac GM in Matteson. The prize is a 2014 Buick LaCrosse. The cost for the tennis clinic and tournament is $150 per person, and includes a 10 a.m. cardio clinic with Olympia Fields Country Club pro Wayne Muskievicz, an 11:30 a.m. lunch at Olympia Fields Country Club, a 1 p.m. round robin doubles tournament at Olympia Fields Country Club, and the 6 p.m. buffet dinner and awards presentation at Idlewild Country Club. Participants in the cardio clinic also have the option to skip the doubles tournament and join the golf scramble and lunch at Idlewild Country Club. If not available for golf or tennis, guests can pay $60 per person for the dinner and awards presentation at Idlewild Country Club. Sponsorship opportunities also are available, and will help raise extra scholarship funds. A full list of sponsorship opportunities is online at prairiestate.edu/foundation by visiting Scholarship Events. For more information or to register for the event, visit www.prairiestate.edu/foundation or email [email protected].
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
Vintage Clothing Sale – Beginning Saturday, May 24
It is that time of the year again. USG will once again be having our beloved Vintage Clothing Sale. Sale includes vintage clothing for women and men, accessories, jewelry, hat boxes, and artist made clothes/accessories. People travel in from all over Illinois and Indiana for this sale. If you would like to donate vintage items for the gallery to sell please contact the Gallery 708-754-2601. All vintage donations must be made during gallery hours and are due by May 22nd. The Vintage Clothing Sale will be held May 24 through 29 during regular Gallery hours and May 30 through June 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
Pop-Up Thrift Shop Fundraiser – Friday May 30 through Sunday June 1
A Pop-Up Thrift Shop Fundraiser will be held at USG beginning Friday, May 30 through Sunday, June 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. USG will accept donations of items for the sale during Gallery hours through Wednesday, May 28th. Sale includes collectables, antiques, household/kitchen items, home decor, holiday decor, jewelry, art & art supplies, books, toys, tools, electronics, CDs/DVDs, sports equipment, and so much more. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
