Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of September 12, 2011

Remembering 9-11 in Park Forest
Residents gather Sunday to remember 9-11-2001 at the site of the Fire and Police Memorial. (ENEWSPF)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 12, 2011.  One of Park Forest’s autumn highlights is the annual Park Forest Art Fair which will be held this year on Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18 in DownTown Park Forest. In addition to art work displayed for sale by some of the finest artists in the Midwest, the fair includes many activities for children, food vendors and musical performances. Details on the event can be found in the “Arts & Entertainment” section below.

Proud member of LION Publishers

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 Meetings

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Advisory Boards will meet the week of September 12:

  • Tuesday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
  • Tuesday, September 13 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission

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

Arts & Entertainment

56th Annual Park Forest Art Fair – Saturday & Sunday, September 17 & 18

The 56th Annual Park Forest Art Fair will be held in DownTown Park Forest (Main St. between Western Ave. & Orchard Dr.) on Saturday, September 17 and Sunday, September 18. The Art Fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The Park Forest Art Fair is the second oldest juried art fairs in the Chicagoland area. The finest artists in the Midwest will be showing a variety of artwork including paintings, prints, photographs, ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood sculpture and fiber arts. The Fair also includes many activities for children. For additional information, call 708-748-3377.

Main Street Music Fest – Saturday, September 17

The Village of Park Forest, in conjunction with the 56th Annual Park Forest Art Fair, will host a music festival on Saturday, September 17 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The lineup of bands performing includes an eclectic mix of renowned artists from the Chicago Southland area. The event is free and open to the public. The day’s line-up is as follows:

  • The Big Boppers – 11 a.m. to Noon.
  • T.L. Williams and ‘ICE’ – 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  • Silk & Smooth and the Family Band – 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
  • ‘BLU’ Willie T & Da Mid-Nite Lovers – 3:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Be sure to come on out to DownTown Park Forest for a day of rock, jazz, blues and more.

Village of Park Forest Charity Softball Game – Rescheduled for Saturday, September 17

Due to last Saturday’s rainy weather, the Charity Softball Game between the Park Forest Fire and Police Departments has been rescheduled to Saturday, September 17 beginning at 6 p.m. at Central Park, 420 Lakewood Boulevard. A cash raffle will be held with the proceeds to benefit the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance Burn Camp and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.). First prize is $1,000; Second prize is $500; Third and Fourth prizes are $250. Raffle tickets are $5 each and can be purchased now or at the event. For additional information on the day’s events or to purchase raffle tickets, contact the Fire Department at 708-748-5605 or the Police Department at 708-748-9536.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

  • Monday, September 12 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Tuesday, September 13 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Tuesday, September 13 at 3:30 p.m. – Back to School Bash
  • Tuesday, September 13 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for all ages
  • Tuesday, September 13 at 7 p.m. – Tuesday, Evening Book Discussion: ‘Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand’
  • Wednesday, September 14 at 1 p.m. – Opera in the Afternoons: ‘Salome’ by soprano Karita Mattila
  • Wednesday, September 14 at 3:30 p.m. – Afterschool Games/Crafts
  • Thursday, September 15 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit Storytime for those ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver
  • Thursday, September 15 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 – 4 with caregiver
  • Thursday, September 15 at 1 p.m. – The Soloists: Jascha Heifetz
  • Thursday, September 15 at5 4 p.m. – Thursday Book Chats: ‘Vampires you Haven’t Met’
  • Friday, September 16 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Time
  • Saturday, September 17 at 1 p.m. – Visit us at the Park Forest Art Fair

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

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

6th Annual Appearance of Barbary Coast Dixieland Band – Friday, September 16

The 6th Annual Appearance of the Barbary Coast Dixieland Band will take place on Friday, September 16, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Faith United Protestant Church. The Barbary Coast Dixieland Band has been together since 1967. Elected to the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in 2001 and rated among the finest entertainers in the Midwest, the band has played everywhere from the Mississippi paddlewheel boats and the Minnesota State Fair, to Nagasaki, Japan. Tickets are $12 per person. 10% of the proceeds of the event will be donated to the Rich Township Pantry. Tickets sell quickly, so get yours today. Call the Church Office at 708-747-1330 to purchase tickets or for additional information. To learn more about the Barbary Coast Dixieland Band, visit www.barbary-coast.com.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

13th Annual ‘Swingin’ With the Symphony’ Golf Outing – Sunday, September 18

On Sunday, September 18, the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will present its 13th Annual ‘Swingin’ With the Symphony’ Golf outing at Lincolnshire Country Club, 390 E. Richton Rd., Crete, IL. Registration and check in begin at 11 a.m. with lunch served at 11:30 a.m. Shotgun start will begin at noon. At 5 p.m., cocktails will be served followed by dinner and prizes. Single Golfer Reservation is $150 which includes lunch, golf, cart and dinner. Dinner only tickets are $50 which includes dinner with a cash bar available. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and its education programs. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.

Garden Club of Park Forest & Park Forest American Legion Post 1198

Blue Star Memorial Marker Landscaping Project – Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., a Spaghetti Dinner will be held at the Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights. Proceeds from the event will be used for the Blue Star Memorial Marker Landscaping Project. Tickets are $8 per person. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-6628 or 708-748-3674. If you cannot attend the fundraiser and 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

New Fall Hours – Open on Wednesdays & Saturdays Through November

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is increasing its hours through November. The Museum will be open on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from Noon to 3 p.m. Group tours can be arranged for other times 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].

Volunteers Needed At Park Forest House Museum

With its hours expanding for Fall 2011, the Park Forest House Museum is in need of volunteers to help cover the increased hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please e-mail Jane Nicoll, Museum Director 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.

Freedom Hall – Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest

2011 – 2012 Season Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets for the 2011 – 2012 Season at Freedom Hall’s Nathan Manilow Theatre are now on sale.  Select only three entertainment events and you qualify as a series Subscriber. Not only will you save money by becoming a Subscriber, you will have first choice of seats. There is a liberal ticket exchange policy for Subscribers and you’ll never hear, “Sorry, Sold Out” for the event of your choice. The Main Series performances include: Abraxas – Santana Tribute Band; The Marcy Daneille ‘6’ featuring Chris Greene; Peter Mayer ‘Stars and Promises’; Hot 8 Brass Band; Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago; and LUMA. The Senior Series performances are ‘3 Blonde Moms’; Mac Frampton; Maureen Christine’s Holiday Harmonies; Ryan DeHues; The Dooley Brothers; and The New Invaders. The Family Theatre will present ‘Masked Marvels & Wondertales,’ and ‘The Great Green Adventures of R-Man. 

For additional information on the scheduled entertainment events or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit: www.freedomhall.org

Redemption Theater, 12952 Western Ave., Blue Island

‘Rules of Engagement’ – September 15 – 18

Lendoria Orr Productions will present the play ‘Rules of Engagement’ at the Redemption Theater from September 15 – 18. ‘Rules of Engagement’ is an inspirational production based upon a group of singles that meet monthly to fellowship, edify, encourage and uplift one another along their walk of abstinence. All but one finds it challenging. You are guaranteed to have an eye-opening experience. This is a must see that you don’t want to miss. VIP tickets are $25 and include dinner and pre-show event. General tickets are $10. Showtime for the Thursday (September 15), Friday (September 16), and Saturday (September 17) performances is 7 p.m. Showtime for the Sunday (September 18) performance is 5 p.m. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 773-881-9960 or 646-728-2279.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights

Photographer of the Year and Annual Student Work Exhibition – Through September 22

A selection of PSC Photographer of the Year honoree Sherryl Smith’s work, along with selected works by students in fine arts, photography, and graphic communications will be on exhibit through Thursday, September 22 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. The Gallery will be closed on Labor Day, September 5. Visits can also be made by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment for a visit, contact the PSC Foundation at 708-709-3636.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Opera Up Close Lyric Opera Preview – Sunday, September 18

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.

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

‘Collective’ – Through September 24

This year’s Studio and Guild Artists Exhibit ‘Collective’ will and run through Saturday, September 24. The theme addresses the idea of a number of individuals joined together, sharing common interests or goals, but also suggests that the works themselves will all have a number of elements or motifs that are repeated and joined within each single piece. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information, call the Gallery at 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

‘Debut’ – Through September 24

‘Debut’ is an exhibit featuring pieces of art created by Union Street Gallery Members who are artists runs through Saturday, September 24. This exhibit is very diverse, featuring quality work from both emerging artists and professional artists. Members exhibiting hail from as local as Chicago Heights and from as far as Pennsylvania. Exhibiting artists are Max Victor Alper, CouSandra Armstron, Dale Augustson, Claudia Craemer, Karen DalSanto-Edelbrock, Pam Eberlin, Nancy Frazier, Margie Glass-Sula, Helen Hnatusko, Peggy Lehocky, Selma Lisit, Harriet Miller, Jim O’Leary, Cheryl Osby, Gisele Perreault, and Emmanuel Turner.

Silent Art Auction Fundraiser – Bidding Ends Saturday, September 24

Local artists generously donated artwork for a silent auction to help raise funds for Union Street Gallery. The art being auctioned off is worth hundreds of dollars, and many starting bids are at $20.  Whether you are just starting your art collection or adding to it, this is a great opportunity to name your own price on an original piece of art.  What better way to support the local arts than buying a piece of art?Auction is going on now on the first floor in the studio in the back right corner of the gallery.  Many pieces have several bids on them so be sure to keep up on your bids!  Auction ends at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 24th. Winning bids will be notified by Wednesday September 28th.

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

‘Off the Wall for Fall’ Exhibit – Through September 24

‘Off the Wall for Fall’ is an exhibit featuring fifteen juried artists with aviates on paintings, printmaking, photography, wood burning and mixed media collage and more. The exhibit will run through September 17. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 815-464-8818.

St. Paul Community Church, 18200 Dixie Highway, Homewood

‘Monday Night Fun Squares’ – Begins Monday, September 12

Starting on Monday, September 12, ‘Monday Night Fun Squares,’ a new adventure in modern square dancing will be held at St. Paul Community Church. Each week’s schedule is as follows:

  • 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. – Brand New Dancers will learn the basics of the calls and have practice time on the new calls. Experienced dancers are encouraged to come and help the new dancers learn.
  • 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. – New & Experienced Dancers will dance in order to further their understanding and efficiency, using the calls they have learned.
  • 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. – Experienced Dancers can enjoy themselves with friends in a setting of fellowship and fun with the calls they already know. New dancers are welcome and encouraged to say and visit and observe.

Attire is casual and there is a fee of $6 per person for the evening. Refreshments will be provided.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

League of Women Voters

Role of the Federal Government in Public Education – Saturday, September 17

The League of Women Voters across the nation is conducting a study on the role of the Federal Government in public education. On Saturday, September 17 from 10 a.m. to noon at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, Jill Liapis from the South Cook Intermediate Service Center will explain how the Common Core Standards will impact how our students learn. Illinois is one of the states that has adopted the new standards and will begin to implement them in 2014. This meeting is open to the public. The meeting is intended to educate League members, and the public, on standards and practices and needs of our public education system. Discussions will include the effectiveness of programs like No Child Left Behind Act and other mandates. The local League consensus positions will be forwarded to the U.S. League of Women Voters for consideration with all other Leagues across the nation for developing the official position of the League.

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

Information Session on Physical Therapy Programs – Wednesday, September 14

On Wednesday, September 14 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., in Room D34000 of GSU’s main campus, the University’s Physical Therapy department will host an information session for individuals interested in learning more about the entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (t-DPT) degree programs. Information about admission criteria and course curricula for both physical therapy programs will be presented. Advisors will be available for individual consultation. Light refreshments will be provided. For additional information, call 708-53407290 or e-mail [email protected].

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.

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

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)

Thorn Creek Woods Trail Walk – Wednesday, September 14

On Wednesday, September 14 at 8 a.m., take this 3.5 mile wooded walk at Thorn Creek Nature Center, 347 Monee Road, Park Forest. TCAS Members are helping to monitor the trails this fall while birding. We may see the resident barred owls, red-headed woodpeckers, titmice, nuthatches and even a flying squirrel. At Owl Lake we may see a wood duck. Terrain is mildly rugged and hilly but not too challenging for most hikers. For additional information, all Mary Anne McLean at 708-672-5494 or e-mail [email protected].

Field Trip to Old Plank Trail Road – Saturday, September 17

On Saturday, September 17 at 8 a.m., herons, cormorants, Caspian terns, native sparrows, cedar waxwings, various ducks and even peregrine falcons may be spotted on this convenient local walk. More than 140 species have been seen here. Meet along Miller Drive, near the former University of Illinois extension building. Miller runs east from Central, just north of the trail. For additional information, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847 or e-mail [email protected].

Safer Pest Control Project, Chicago

Natural Lawn Care & Sustainable Landscapes Workshop – Registration in Progress

On Thursday, October 13, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, IL, a ‘Natural lawn Care & Sustainable Landscapes Workshop’ will be held. The workshop is recommended for landscape companies, turf managers, homeowner associations, and municipalities. The workshop will include sessions on:

  • Introduction to natural lawn care;
  • Implementing a natural lawn care program;
  • What to look for in contracts;
  • Greening your ordinances; and
  • Creating a rain-friendly landscape.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how to create and implement cost-effective sustainable landscaping programs in your community. Registration is $25. For additional information or to register, call 847-548-5989 extension 33, or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.spcpweb.org.

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.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers – Wednesday, September 14

On Wednesdays, through November 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., those ages 11 to adult are invited to follow the forest’s fall changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature first-hand on Thorn Creek’s autumn trails. Trails can be wet or muddy so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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.

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)

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.

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

2011 Good Egg Award Presentation – Monday, September 19 – RESCHEDULED DATE

The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations will present its 2011 Good Egg Award presentation on Monday, September 19 at 6 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The event will take place prior to the regularly scheduled Board Meeting. The 2011 awardees are Gene Finley, Olubukola Fatoki and Bets Hofsommer. Residents are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Evelyn Sterling, Community Relations Coordinator at 708-283-5621.

Pax Christi Seed Planters, Generations for Peace Park Forest, St. Irenaeus Church Community Garden & South Suburban Food Cooperative

International Day of Peace – Wednesday, September 21

On Wednesday, September 21, Pax Christi Seed Planters, Generations for Peace Park Forest, St. Irenaeus Church Community Garden and the South Suburban Food Cooperative invite you to participate in the International Day of Peace Event at St. Irenaeus Church, 78 Cherry, Park Forest. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and will include the planting of a Peace Pole and a commitment to peace dedication in the community garden located in the back of the church off the parking lot.  Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. Come and take a stand for the things that make for peace.  Commit to nonviolence and seed the change we hope to see.  For additional information, call Concetta Smart at 708-672-3971.

Kiwanis Club of Park Forest

60th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day – Tickets Now on Sale

The 60th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, a Park Forest tradition, will take place on Saturday, September 24 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot outside Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Enjoy pancakes and sausages from the amazing pank-a-tron machine under the big white tent. This year, there will be the added enjoyment of listening to the musical performance of the Joe Goodrich and Friends ensemble as well as other highly talented groups. Pre-event tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for children under 12. Tickets on the day of the event will be $6 for adults and $3 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Park Forest Farmers Market, US Bank, and Village Hall. This special community event provides proceeds to support children, seniors, and young people through a variety of programs and organizations in the south suburbs. For additional information, call Elmer Washington at 708-748-8256.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks

Park Forest Bark District’s Two Year Anniversary Extravaganza – Rescheduled Date – Saturday, September 24

Grab your canine companion and come celebrate the Bark District’s two year anniversary on Saturday, September 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Bark District is located at 218 Street and Wildwood in Park Forest. We guarantee you will have a ‘fur’bulous time! There will be giveaways, specialty dog vendors and mover. The Park Forest Environment Commission will be planting a tree and unveiling a memorial bench at the start of the event. For additional information, call 708-748-2005 or e-mail [email protected].

Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG)

Seeking Nominees for Park Forest Business Person of the Year Award

Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a difference for you or someone you know?  You can nominate individuals, civic groups, and/or businesses who are committed to community service to receive this year’s award. Completed nomination forms should be submitted to EDAG in care of the Village of Park Forest no later than October 31, 2011.  Contact Sandra Zoellner at [email protected] or 708-283-5623 for additional information.

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.

Southland Community Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago

Membership Tea – September 14

The Southland Community Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago invite the residents of the Southland Area to the Annual Membership Tea to be held Wednesday, September 14 at Governors State University’s Hall of Honors at 1 p.m. A lecture entitled “Mary Cassatt: Was There Anything She Couldn’t Do?” will be held at 2 p.m. in Engbretson Hall. Tamara Faulkner, an adjunct lecturer for the Art Institute of Chicago will present the program. The event is open to the public and no reservations are required. For additional information, call Evelyn Gaudutis at 708-422-1492.

Park Forest Nurses Club

Annual Smorgasbord – Thursday, September 15

The Park Forest Nurses Club will hold its annual smorgasbord on Thursday, September 15 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 Orchard Drive (corner of Lincoln Highway and Orchard Drive). Etel Billig will present “Feiffer’s People,” a comedic monologue by Jules Feiffer. Members are asked to bring their favorite salad. Dessert and beverage will be provided. All area RN’s and LPN’s, active or inactive, are invited to attend. For additional information, call 708-481-8387 or visit www.pfnursesclub.org.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore Dr., Park Forest

‘9500 Liberty’ Free Movie & Discussion – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 at 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Community Church will screen the movie ‘9500 Liberty.’ A discussion will follow the movie. The documentary movie looks at the battle over immigration in the U.S. through the lens of one place, Prince William County, Virginia, where, in an eight week period, an ‘Arizona-style’ immigration crackdown was implemented and quickly repealed. Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. The event is free and open to the public. Optional donations are welcome.

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 Through November 9

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, 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.

Most read stories this week

Take a Survey

ARCHIVES