In and Around Park Forest November 1, 2010

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—November 1, 2010. Did you know as many as half of America’s smoke detectors are not working because of old, disconnected or missing batteries? Begin a new habit that will help your “best defense against fire” do its job if you ever need it. On November 7 when you move your clock back one hour, be sure to change the batteries in your smoke detector as well.

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 Meetings

Village Board Meeting

The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, November 1st at 8 p.m.. In addition, the Saturday Morning Rules Meeting will be held on Saturday, November 6 at 10 a.m. Meetings are held at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend. Village Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site at www.villageofparkforest.com.

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=BoardMtgArchive&category=Village%20Government and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Village Commissions and Boards will meet this week:

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

All meetings are held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Park Forest Annual Ceremony Honoring Military Personnel – Monday, November 8

On Monday, November 8 at 7 p.m., Park Forest’s annual service honoring military personnel will be held in the Village Board Room at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Plan on attending this event to show your support for our military personnel.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Economic Development & Planning

Park Forest Idols Outreach –Auditions Deadline Friday, November 5

Singers and dancers of all ages can pick up an entry form to apply for an audition for the Park Forest Idols competition to be held on Saturday, January 22, 2011. Auditions are limited to Park Forest residents only. Applications for auditions must be submitted no later than Friday, November 5. Forms can be picked up at the Economic Development & Planning Office of Village Hall, or by e-mail at [email protected]. For additional information, call 708-283-5621.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Delayed Library Opening – Tuesday, November 2

Due to Library renovations and for the safety of its patron’s, the Park Forest Library will delay opening on Tuesday, November 2 until 1 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.

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

• Monday, November 1 at 10:30 a.m. – Story Time for children ages 2 and older
• Monday, November 1 at 3:30 p.m. – Free Homework Helpers
• Tuesday, November 2 at 3:30 p.m. – Free Homework Helpers
• Tuesday, November 2 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for children of all ages
• Wednesday, November 3 at 10:15 a.m. – Lap Sit Story Times for those ages 3 and under
• Wednesday, November 3 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 to 4
• Thursday, November 4 at 10:15 a.m. – Discovery Time for those ages 3 to 5
• Thursday, November 4 at 3:30 p.m. – Free Homework Helpers

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

Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, November 4

The fall Potpourri of Lectures series continues on Thursday, November 4 at 10:30 a.m. with a lecture by Al Sturges, entitled “A Trip to Oaxaca” at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information, call Mary VanSwaol at the Park Forest Library at 708-748-3731, extension 24.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department

December Senior Trip to Theatre at the Center – Register Now

On Wednesday, December 15, the Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department is sponsoring the December Senior Trip to the Theatre at the Centre, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana for lunch and the play, “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas.” You will enjoy lunch before the show which will be your choice of London Broil or Roast Turkey with Stuffing as the main entrée, accompanied by salad, two side dishes and dessert. After lunch, you can sit back and enjoy the play which is the musical version of the holiday favorite “A Miracle on 34th Street.” Tickets are $64 per person and include round-trip coach bus, lunch and the play ticket. The bus will depart from Freedom Hall at 11:15 a.m. and return at approximately 5 p.m. You can register in person or over the phone with a credit card by calling the Recreation & Parks Office at 708-748-2005. Please mention your entrée preference with registering. Tickets are non-refundable. The registration deadline is Monday, November 22.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“The Real Thing” – Through Sunday, November 14

Tom Stoppard’s Tony Award Winning comedy “The Real Thing” will run through November 14. Stoppard, who won an Oscar for the movie “Shakespeare in Love,” has created a brilliant play-within-a-play about love, truth and illusion. Legendary London theatre critic Sheridan Morley described the “The Real Thing’ as “…a play which reminds you why you go to the theatre and why you fall in love. And why, just sometimes, it is all worth the effort.” Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $22 on Friday and Saturday, $20 at all other times, with a $1 discount for students and seniors. For tickets, call (708) 481-3510.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 267 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“Americana: Folk Art” – Through November 28

“Americana: Folk Art,” an exhibit of American and decorative objects from private collections, will run through November 28. Objects on exhibition mainly derive from the Collections of John Cain, Executive Director of the South Sore Arts; Dr. Jan and Peter Hudak, of Crete, and Dr. Arthur and Marilyn Bourgeois, of Richton Park, Art Professors at Governors State University and Arthur Bourgeois and Thomas Lanham of the Field Museum curated the exhibit. The event if free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Park Forest Historical Society

Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard (Corner of Forest & Fir)

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum is in an original rental townhome, built in 1947-1949 by American Community Builders. The museum provides a nostalgic trip down Memory Lane for anyone who lived in the 1950s or 1960s, or for those interested in that period. Visitors are encouraged to open drawers, cupboard and closets to discover period treasures inside. Contents of the house, furnished as though a young veteran and his family of small children occupy it, include dolls, toys, dollhouses, books, dishes, serving pieces, furniture and clothing from the period. When is the last time you said, “Hello,” to Howdy Doody?

The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Group tours are by appointment. Call 708-748-3731.

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

War Bonds – Tickets Now on Sale

The Senior Series at Freedom Hall continues on Tuesday, November 9 at 11 a.m. with “War Bonds” featuring the songs and letters of World War II, a musical journey through the war that redefined the world. “War Bonds” is a well crafted work that leaves audiences with smiles and tears. Tickets are $11. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Marcya Daneille Featuring Wycliffe Gordon – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, November 13 at 8 p.m., jazz vocalist and Park Forest native, Marcya Daneille will perform with featured guest, famed trombonist, Wycliffe Gordon, a veteran member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet, accompanied by a quintet of the finest jazz artists from America. Daneille’s melodious voice has been described a “the perfect blend of Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington and Sara Vaughan with a dash of Billie Holiday.” Tickets are $28. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

33rd Anniversary Season Opening Night Manhattan Maestros – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, November 13 at 8 p.m., ring in the 33rd Anniversary Season with this all-orchestral program of Dvorak, Mahler, Strauss, and Tchaikovsky. Each composer conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and left an indelible mark on this country’s symphonic tradition with works like Dvorak’s vivacious Carnival Overture and Tchaikovsky’s fateful Symphony No. 4. The orchestra celebrates Mahler’s 150th birthday and the 100th anniversary of his death with his most famous work, the Adagietto from Symphony No. 5. Carmon DeLeone will conduct the orchestra. Tickets are priced at $30 and $25. The concert will be held at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort, IL. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s website at: http://ipomusic.org/ or call 708-481-7774.

Opening Night Gala Dinner – Tickets Now On Sale

On Saturday, November 13 at 5 p.m. at Prestwick Country Club, 601 Prestwick Drive, Frankfort, IL, celebrate the start of another season with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra by attending the pre-concert opening night dinner. A cash bar will be available. Dinner tickets are $80 per person and do not include concert tickets. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s website at: http://ipomusic.org/ or call 708-481-7774.

Holiday Star Theater, 340 Main St., Park Forest

Monday Night Football

Watch Monday Night Football games for free at the Holiday Star. Bring your own bowl and we’ll fill it up with popcorn (with the purchase of at least a medium drink). For additional information, call the theater at  708-283-9098.

Discount Pricing for Children

Children wearing the Holiday Star Baseball Jersey will pay only $1 for admission to the theater. For additional information, call the theater at  708-283-9098.

Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway

Ailey II Dance Company – Saturday, November 6

On Saturday, November 6 at 8 p.m., the Ailey II Dance Company will perform “Revelations” choreographed by Alvin Ailey. Richard Christiansen, Chicago Tribune, says “Revelations” is one of the more moving works of the 20th century. Tickets range in price from $53 to $15. Groupon Patrons can redeem Groupon certificate on the night of the show, or by calling the Box Office at 708-235-2222 for information on your seats. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

On-Site Soup and Salad Café will be available at 6 p.m. for $19 per person. The menu features chili and the fixins’, two soups, homemade breads, Caesar salad, make-your-own salad, desserts, coffee, tea and water. Advance reservations are required by calling 708-235-2222.

DRUMLine Live – Tickets Now on Sale

Back by popular demand, on Friday, November 12 at 7 p.m., the raw energy and atmosphere of the popular movie comes to the stage with a large cast of performers from America’s historically black colleges and universities. Tickets range in price from $39 to $46. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU

Neil Goodman to Share Insights About Art – Thursday, November 11

Renowned sculptor Neil Goodman will share his insights about art with the public during a daylong appearance on Thursday, November 11 at GSU’s Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park (NMSP). Goodman and NMSP Curator and Director Geoffrey Bates will engage in a conversation about art at GSU’s Sherman Recital Hall at 5:45 p.m. A public reception is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. in the atrium of the university’s Faculty Office Center. The events are free and open to the public.  For more information call 708-534-4486 or visit [email protected].

Marian Catholic High School, 700 Ashland Ave., Chicago Heights, IL

8th Annual Holiday Madrigal Dinner – Tickets Now on Sale

On Friday, December 10 and Saturday, December 11 at 6:30 p.m. each evening, the Marian Catholic Fine Arts Department will present its 8th Annual Holiday Madrigal Dinner in the Marian Band Room. The evening will feature beautiful music, moving storytelling, court entertainers and delicious food and drink. Tickets are $25 and include a full dinner and copy of the Madrigal Singers CD. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Because of high demand and limited seating, all ticket orders must be paid in full in advance of the event. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Michelle Howisen at 708-756-9442.

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

Either/Or – Through November 20

Either/Or features work from talented artists from all over the country will run through November 20. The work chosen embodies the spectrum of ideas the exhibit title alludes to. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org.

To “Dye” For Workshop – Saturday, November 6 & 13

On Saturday, November 5 & 13 from 12 noon to 2 p.m., learn to dye your own fabrics and clothing. Studio Artist Dorita Fuller will guide you as you create your own unique designs. Bring in your own personal items to dye or buy ‘blanks’ like socks and scarves. All are welcome and encouraged to bring food to share. The fee is $2. To register for the workshop or for additional information, call 708-754-2601.

Feng Shui Basics – Wednesday, November 10

On Wednesday, November 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., learn how to work with your house to obtain love, wealth and prosperity. Feng Shui is an ancient and highly valued Chinese art, philosophy and practice which has been in existence for over 3,000 years and has been gently woven into western living within the past few decades. Feng Shui is a holistic science and practice to balance energy forces through the intentional arrangement and placement of buildings, doors, furniture and other objects. There is a fee of $10. For additional information or to register, call 708-754-2601.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, November 4

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

Greater Chicago Food Depository

Los Lobos Benefit Concert – Saturday, November 6

On Saturday, November 6 at the Vic, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago, Los Lobos will play a Concert with all proceeds benefiting the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Back Yard Tire Fire will be the opening band. Doors will open at 7 p.m. The show is for those 18 and over. General admission tickets are $35 (plus applicable fees), and VIP tickets $74 (plus applicable fees). For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit: http://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/site/Calendar?view=Detail&id=109083&AddInterest=1321

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive

AARP Safe Driving Program – Tuesday, November 2

The AARP Safe Driving Classes will be held on Tuesday, November 2 at 9 a.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The course qualifies seniors for a discount on the liability portion of their car insurance. The discount is good for three years, but you must contact your insurance company. The fee for the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Payment by check ONLY, must be brought to class, along with your AARP membership card. Call the Rich Township Senior Center at 708-748-5454 or Brenda Walker at the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118 to make your reservation.

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

Little Twigs Nature Playtimes – Through November 18

Each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. through November 18, young children ages 2 – 4 can participate in this hands-on exploratory program that teaches young children about the environment through hikes, stories and crafts. There is a fee of $5 per child (no fee for parents). Bring your child or grandchild out for this wonderful program. Snacks are provided. Registration is not required. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Roots and Shoots – Saturday, November 6

On Saturday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to Noon, children ages 5 – 10 are encouraged to explore the environment, their community and the world around them in this monthly program. There is a fee of $5 per child per month. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Secrets of the Woods – Registration Required

On Saturday, November 13 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., join a naturalist for a hike through Thorn Creek Woods and unravel the mysteries of life in the woods. This program is fun for the entire family.  There is a fee of $5 per person or $15 for the entire family. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 708-747-6320.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society

Central Park Wetland Restoration Discussion – Wednesday, November 3

On Wednesday, November 3 at 7 p.m. at the Wetlands Discovery Center, 30 N. Orchard (west side of the Park Forest Aqua Center), Rob Gunther, Parks Superintendent for the Village of Park Forest will discuss the restoration of the 45 acres of peat bog that began in 2000.  In its first ten years, the Wetlands has become a well-known natural area and has won widespread recognition and a number of awards.

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.

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway

2010 Business/Administration/ Communications Career and Internship Fair – Thursday, November 4

On Thursday, November 4 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Hall of Governors, the Office of Career Services at GSU is sponsoring a career fair for people interested in careers in business administration, public administration, and communications. In addition to employment opportunities, the fair will also include internship opportunities. Current students, alumni, and community members are invited to attend. This event is free and open to the public. For more information or to register, call 708-235-3974.

CenterPoint at GSU Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp – Register Now – Limited Seating

CenterPoint at GSU is hosting its semiannual, award winning Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp on Wednesday, November 17 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with registration beginning at 7:45 a.m. The Boot Camp is offered at no cost to veterans. Families and business partners of those serving in the military may attend for a fee of $25. The event is co-sponsored by Phoenix Business Solutions, Accion Chicago, GSU, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The day will feature presentations and seminars from industry professionals, opportunities for free one-on-one counseling, lunch with a panel of ex-military business owners who share their entrepreneurial journey, and access to CenterPoint’s numerous entrepreneurial services and resources. Seating is limited to 100 participants and pre-registration is required. For additional information or to register, contact CenterPoint at 708-534-4929 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers – Through November 17

Those ages 11 through adult can enjoy light exercise as you meander through Thorn Creek Woods every Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. through 8:30 a.m. through November 17. Experience the arrival of fall first hand as you walk the 1 mile loop through woodlands and ravines. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

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

Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Mondays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. Appointments MUST be made in advance. For fee information or to schedule an appointment, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118. Hours of the Health Department are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

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

Blood Pressure Screening

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

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

Free Counseling Services Available

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

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private programs available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.

This & That

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.

Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest

C4 Underground Youth Gathering – Every Tuesday & Thursday

Youths in grades 6 and up are welcome to join us every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for fun and games, group discussion and a variety of activities. For more information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Coffee House/Karaoke Night – Friday, November 5

On Friday, November 5 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Celebration Ministries will host a coffee house and karaoke night. Come sing, dance, read, play a game or sit back and relax. There will be fun for everyone. For more information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

Scrapping Sisters – Monday, November 1

On Monday, November 1 from 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., come out and show your scrapbooking talent. Food will be provided. Feel free to bring a side dish to share or provide a donation for food and supplies. For more information, contact Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Current Events Topic Group – Every Monday

Join us every Monday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as we gather to talk about God, us, the world and how they all work together. Roots and Wings is located behind Celebration Ministries. For more information, contact Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St., Park Forest

Refreshing Times Senior Ministry – Friday, November 5

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

Rainbow Café

Monthly Meeting – Saturday, November 6

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

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

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.

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

B3 Bottles, Park Forest

The United Sates leads in consuming bottled water, drinking 26 billion liters a year (that’s only one, 8 ounce glass per day). It is estimated that Americans go through 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour with 86% of the plastic bottles used never getting recycled.  B3 Bottles, a local Park Forest business, has a solution to this problem. B3’s stainless steel bottles can be filled with Park Forest’s award winning water or other hot/cold beverages of your choice, and then cleaned and re-used for a lifetime. To learn more about B3 Bottles and pricing information, call Laura Fitzgerald at 708-748-0934.

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

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.

Go Green with a Free Tote Bag

The Village of Park Forest encourages residents to visit Village Hall to pick up an environmentally friendly canvas bag that can be used for your day-to-day shopping needs. These bags are free while supplies last with only two expectations: 1) that residents have a valid email address so that future environmentally conscious concepts can be shared by the Village’s Environment Commission; and 2) that bags are limited to one per household. For more information on this program, visit the Village Manager’s Office on the second floor of Village Hall of call 708-748-1129.

Sources: Park Forest 2010 Autumn Recreation Programs & More; Park Forest Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Recreation Programs & More; Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, Union Street Gallery, Park Forest Rotary Club, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Theatre Center, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, CAUTION, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Tall Grass Arts Association, Holiday Star Theater, Thorn Creek Audubon Society and Greater Chicago Food Depository websites.