Liz Colburn, DuShon Brown, Tim Colburn and Zoë Darvive, age 8, enjoy pancakes at the 60th Park Forest Kiwanis of Pancake Day. (ENEWSPF)
Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)-September 26, 2011. Business sustainability will be the topic discussed at the Park Forest Economic Development and Planning Department’s Business Breakfast taking place on Wednesday, September 28 at Dining on the Green Banquet Hall, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. Participants will learn exactly what business sustainability is and what it means to you and your business and how your business, large or small, can make a difference. This will be a great networking event, so bring plenty of business cards. Additional information about the Business Breakfast can be found in the ‘This & That’ section below.
On Saturday, October 1, come out and celebrate the wonders of the garlic bulb and the world of organic growing at the Thorn Creek Garlic Fest. For additional information about this day of fun for the entire family, see the ‘Green Events’ 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.
Arts & Entertainment
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 26 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
- Monday, September 26 at 12 p.m. – Friends Book Discussion ‘Brooklyn’ by Colm Toibon
- Tuesday, September 27 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
- Tuesday, September 27 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for all ages
- Wednesday, September 28 at 3:30 p.m. – Afterschool Games/Crafts
- Thursday, September 29 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit Storytime for those ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver
- Thursday, September 29 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 – 4 with caregiver
- Thursday, September 29 at 4 p.m. – Thursday Book Chats – ‘Who’s in Love?’ – we’ll meet to talk about brand new teen books and favorite reads
- Friday, September 30 at 1 p.m. – Senior Travelogue: ‘Eastern Canada by RV’
- Friday, September 30 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Time – Each Friday we’ll feature a teen craft, Wii games, board game competitions, or maybe even a classic TV rerun. Bring a friend!
For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.
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
Abraxas – Santana Tribute Band, With Special Guest, Alex Ligertwood – Tickets Now on Sale
Freedom Halls’ 2011 – 2012 Season kicks off on Friday, October 14 at 8 p.m. Abraxas – Santana Tribute Band performing a musical tribute to Carlos Santana covering five decades of Santana hits. Special Guest, Alex Ligertwood, the former lead vocalist for Santana, will join the band and reprise some of his and Santana’s greatest hits, such as ‘Winning,’ ‘All I Ever Wanted,’ ‘Hold on,’ ‘Open Invitation,’ ‘E Papa Re,’ and many more. Tickets are $24. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘A Symphony of Style: The Best Friends Fashion Show and Luncheon’ – Tickets Now on Sale
The Friends of the IPO invite you to join them for Symphony of Style, the 21st Annual Best of Friends Fashion Show and Luncheon to be held on Saturday, October 29, 2010. The gala begins at 10:30 a.m. at Idlewild Country Club, 19201 Dixie Highway, Flossmoor, with shopping and time to connect with old and new friends before the scrumptious luncheon followed by a gala stream of fashions. Hansen’s Villa in Manhattan, My Sisters and Me Boutique in Frankfort, and Kluger Furs in Flossmoor will provide the fashions and accessories for the models, all from our own Southland. All proceeds benefit the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and its educational programs, including musical scholarships for Junior High School students. Admission includes:
- 10:30 am Jewelry Bazaar
- 12:00 pm Luncheon and Fashion Show
Keyboard entertainment will be provided by Roger Pampel. Contact the IPO office at (708) 481-7774 for ticket information.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
‘Music, Music, Music Exhibition’ – Through September 30
‘Music, Music, Music’ exhibition will run through September 30. For additional information or gallery hours, call 708-703-7806.
Works of the Late Sylvia Hertz – Through October 30
A retrospective exhibit featuring the works of the late Sylvia Hertz will run through October 30. For additional information or gallery hours, call 708-703-7806.
Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park
‘Thriller: The Legend Continues’ The Michael Jackson Tribute – Saturday, October 1
On Saturday, October 1 at 8 p.m., Michael Jackson’s best songs will be performed live on stage once again. Songs to be performed include: ‘Man in the Mirror,’ ‘Bad,’ ‘Black or White,’ ‘Beat it,’ ‘Billy Jean,’ ‘Thriller,’ and many more unforgettable songs including songs from the days when Michael was a member of the Jackson 5. Tickets range in price from $15 to $62. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.
Rich Township Food Pantry
22nd Annual Fall Fashion Show Fundraiser – Tickets Now on Sale
The Rich Township Food Pantry’s 22nd Annual Fall Fashion Show Fundraiser will take place on Sunday, October 16 at 12:30 p.m. at the Tinley Park Holiday Inn Convention Center, 18501 S. Harlem, Tinley Park, IL. All proceeds raised from the fashion who go directly to purchase food that is distributed to more than 800 families in need every month. Tickets are $35 which includes a delicious sit-down luncheon, a fabulous fashion show, and a silent auction with hundreds of incredible items, such as valuable artwork, jewelry, gift baskets, and much more. There will also be door prizes and raffles. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-748-6722.
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.
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 Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest
Thorn Creek Garlic Fest – Saturday, October 1
On Saturday, October 1 from noon to 4 p.m., come out and celebrate the wonders of the garlic bulb and the world of organic growing at the Thorn Creek Garlic Fest. You can taste different varieties of garlic, and gather information on garlic, its uses, planting techniques, organic gardening and garlic cooking. All garlic is organically grown on Thorn Creek’s Historic Farm and many refreshments include organic garlic in them. Enjoy demonstrations on garlic preparation and try your hand at garlic braiding. Organic garlic bulbs will be available to purchase. Parking is located in the field across from Thorn Creek Nature Center. Bring the entire family out for a day of fun. There is a fee of $5 per car of $1 per bicycle. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.
Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)
Field Trip to Pilcher Park and Conservatory – Wednesday, September 28 (Rain Date, Saturday, October 1)
We will meet on Wednesday, September 28 at 8 a.m. at Pilcher Park and Conservatory where pileated woodpeckers have been seen. We will also be looking for migrating fall warblers, native sparrows and woodland birds. Later we will visit the nearby conservatory to see interesting plants. Take Route 30 beyond New Lenox to Gouger Road (a stop light), turn north and take the third entry to the left to get to the nature center parking lot. For additional information, call Mary Anne McLean at 708-672-5494 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 28
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
Mental Health Awareness Week Events at GSU
In conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Week, GSU is offering informational sessions and confidential depression screening at a series of events that are free and open to the public. Activities during the week include:
- October 3 from noon to 1 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. — ‘Fight or flight,’ a workshop on stress management, in the Center for Performing Arts lobby
- October 4 from noon to 1 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. – ‘Revealing Me to Me,’ a presentation on achieving inner wellness, in the Center for Performing Arts lobby
- October 5 from noon to 1 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. – ‘Discovering Self,’ investigates self-empowerment, in the Center for Performing Arts lobby
- October 6 from noon to 5 p.m. – Information on depression and related concerns will be available. Confidential depression screening will be offered in the Academic Resource Center (ARC), adjacent to the Hall of Governors. Screening involves completing a brief questionnaire and a conversation with a mental health professional. Questionnaire results are anonymous and confidential. If warranted, the mental health professional will offer next-steps suggestions.
For additional information, call 708-235-2228.
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 Economic Development and Planning Department
Summer/Fall Edition Park Forest Business News
The Economic Development & Planning Department of the Village of Park Forest Summer/Fall Business News is now available online. Click here to view the latest edition.
Business Breakfast – Wednesday, September 28
Business sustainability will be the topic discussed at the Business Breakfast to be held Wednesday, September 28 at Dining on the Green Banquet Hall, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. It’s no secret that ‘green campaigning’ is here to stay and is affecting our lives right here and now. Learn exactly what business sustainability is and what it means to you and your business and how your business, large or small, can make a difference. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and a complimentary full breakfast will be provided. Presentations will be given by Kevin Dick, Director of Certifications Programs, Delta Institute, and Jessica Simoncelli and Kristin Ihnchak, Community Outreach Planners, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. To register for the event, call 708-283-5617 or visit www.villageofparkforest.com.
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.
Park Forest Community Relations
Park Forest Idols – Battle of the Suburbs – Audition Entry Form Deadline – November 14
This year’s Park Forest Idols showcase will be opening its auditions to the entire South Suburbs. Entry forms can be submitted beginning October 1 and are due by November 14. For additional information, call 708-283-5621
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.
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.
