In and Around Park Forest October 11, 2010

Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)- October 11, 2010. Hard to believe that there are only 3 more Saturday’s left before the Park Forest Farmers Market ends for the season. In addition to a wide-area of seasonal fruits and vegetables, you’ll find home-made jams and jellies, pasta sauces, and cheeses – most of which can be stored or frozen to get you through the winter. There’s also a variety of items that would make great holiday gifts. Make plans to visit the Farmers Market before it closes on October 30.

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, October 11 at 8 p.m. 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 and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Village Commissions will meet this week:

• Youth Commission – Tuesday, October 12 at 7 p.m.
• Commission on Human Relations – Tuesday, October 12 at 7:30 p.m.

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

Annual Arbor Day Tree Planting – Saturday, October 16

On Saturday, October 16 at 10 a.m., the Village of Park Forest’s Environment Commission will commemorate Arbor Day by planting a tree at the Park Forest Bark District, 218th St. & Wildwood Drive. All are welcome to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

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

Monday, October 11 at 10:30 a.m.	Story Time for children ages 2 and older
Monday, October 11 at 3:30 p.m.	Free Homework Helpers
Tuesday, October 12 at 3:30 p.m.	Free Homework Helpers
Tuesday, October 12 at 7 p.m.	PJ Storytime for children of all ages
Wednesday, October 13 at 10:15 a.m.	Lap Sit Story Times for those ages 3 and under
Wednesday, October 13 at 11 a.m.	Toddler Art for those ages 2 to 4
Thursday, October 14 at 10:15 a.m.	Discovery Time for those ages 3 to 5
Thursday, October 14 at 3:30 p.m.	Free Homework Helpers
Friday, October 15 at 4 p.m.	After School Wii Games
Saturday, October 16 at 2 p.m.	3rd Annual Fall Festival for the entire family

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, October 14

The fall Potpourri of Lectures series kicks-off on Thursday, October 14 at 10:30 a.m. with “The Keys to Real Happiness” at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Robert Beezat (Bieszczat), former Park Forest Assistant to the Village Manager and author of the book Knowing and Loving will conduct the lecture. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information, call Mary VanSwaol at the Park Forest Library at 708-748-3731, extension 24.

Park Forest Library & Park Forest Economic Development and Recreation & Parks Departments

Murder at the Library: An Interactive Mystery Play – Pre-Register Now

On Saturday, October 30 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Murder at the Library: An Interactive Mystery Play will take place at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. Participants will figure out just who committed the ‘crime.’ There will be lots of fun, prizes and food for all. The event is open for those ages 10 and up (those ages 10 – 17 must be accompanied by an adult). There is a fee of $5 per person. Pre-register at the Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department in Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. For additional information, call 708-748-2005.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“The Real Thing” – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for Tom Stoppard’s Tony Award Winning comedy “The Real Thing” which opens on Friday, October 29. The play 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.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

Art Trek – Through October 31

Join us for this fine art exhibition and demonstrations within the Chicago Southland Community. This event will continue through October 31 in over 38 locations. Demonstrations include painting, jewelry making, and much more. Call 708-833-5108 or 708-748-3946 for more information, the different locations. Along with daily business hours.

“Icons” – Through October

“Icons” exhibit at Salon Artists Gallery runs through October. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and 12 Noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, call Pat Moore or Bev Szaton at 708-833-5108.

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

Kenya Safari Acrobats – Friday, October 15

On Friday, October 15 at 8 p.m., the Kenya Safari Acrobats will offer a truly unique cultural experience. Hailing from the heart of Africa, this awe-inspiring and dynamic dance troupe takes acrobatics to exhilarating extremes performing a non-stop ride of gravity-defying human pyramids, tumbling, limbo dancing, hurling through hoops and breathtaking contortions, all while clapping to a joyful Benga beat. Tickets are $23. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Denny Diamond – Tickets Now On Sale

The Senior Series at Freedom Hall kicks-off on Tuesday, October 19 at 11 a.m. with Denny Diamond who has delighted audiences across the nation performing his fun and energetic tribute to one of America’s favorite singer/songwriters, Neil Diamond. A mix of songs made famous be artists like Johnny Cash, Roger Miller and others will also be featured. Tickets are $9. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Children’s Theatre – “One Monster After Another” – Tickets Now on Sale

On Friday, October 22 at 7 p.m., Child’s Play Touring Theatre will present “One Monster After Another,” a rockin’ rendezvous with witches, monsters, ghosts and ghouls. All the thrills and chills of Halloween night are combined with music, mystery, dance and song – a truly rollicking ride to sweep you along. Tickets are $7. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Park Forest Economic Development & Planning

Park Forest Idols Outreach – Entry Forms Now Available

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.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Symphony of Style: The Best of Friends Fashion Show & Luncheon – Tickets Now on Sale

The Friends of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO) invite you to join them for Symphony of Style, the 20th Annual Best of Friends Fashion Show and Luncheon to be held on Saturday, October 30 beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Idlewild Country Club, 19201 Dixie Highway, Flossmoor. The gala begins with shopping, an open bar and time to connect with old and new friends before the scrumptious luncheon followed by a gala stream of fashions. Raffle tickets sold by Friends and ushers will offer guest chances to win one of five elegant theme baskets, including “Chef’s Table,” “How Does Your Garden Grow,” “Night at the Opera,” and more. 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. Contact the IPO office at 708-481-7774 for ticket information.

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

Benefit Concert – Saturday, October 16

On Saturday, October 16 at 5 p.m., join folksinger Anna Stange for an upbeat performance designed to benefit Thorn Creek Nature Center. From ballads to sing-alongs, Anna’s songs range from old favorites from the American Folk tradition to newer songs she has written herself. Anna’s performances are always fun for the whole family. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children. Family rates are available. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway

Phil Vassar Acoustic – Saturday, October 16

Award-wining country song writer, Phil Vassar will open the Center’s 2010 – 2011 Season on Saturday, October 16 at 8 p.m. Vassar has written number-one hits for country music legends such as Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson, Jo Dee Messina and Collin Raye, and he boasts three chart toppers of his own. With unparalleled energy and boundless talent, Nashville singer-songwriter Phil Vassar is a legend in his own right. Tickets range in price from $59 to $35. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

A pre-show dinner is available at Joe’s Italian Villa, 10160 191st St., Mokena, Il at 5:30 p.m. The cost of the dinner is $25 (excluding tax and tip) and includes a choice of entrees including slow-roasted prime rib, blackened fresh salmon, BBQ back ribs, and chicken vino vianco along with house bread and brushetta, soup or salad, vegetable or potato, coffee, tea, pop, or house red or white wine and homemade chocolate caramel cake for dessert. Advance dinner reservations are required and can be made by calling Joe’s Italian Villa at 708-478-7799.

10th Anniversary Celebration of DanceArt

On Tuesday, October 26, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., DanceArt will celebrate its 10th Anniversary at a special presentation and live performance at the Center for Performing Arts. A reception will be held immediately following the performance. The mission of DanceArt is to bring high quality, inclusive dance education to children in the Chicago region, who would otherwise not experience the world of dance. Both the performance and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information, please call 708-534-4575.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU

Sculpture Park Tour – Sunday, October 17

A free, guided tour of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park will be conducted on Sunday, October 17 at 2 p.m. The tour will begin on the patio behind the Hall of Governors in the D wing of the university and last approximately one and a half hours. Comfortable footwear is recommended as there is extensive walking and occasionally the paths are uneven. For additional information, call 708-534-4486 or visit [email protected].

Neil Goodman Sculptures On Display Through October

Five dramatic sculptures by Chicago artist Neil Goodman are currently on display at GSU’s Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. Goodman’s sculptures have been commissioned and collected by museums, corporations, convention centers, parks, synagogues, universities and private residences. For more information about Neil Goodman in the Park call 708-534-4486 or visit [email protected].

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

“Women Uniting for Change” Networking Event – Thursday, October 14

On Thursday, October 14 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the South-Southwest Suburban United Way, Professional Women’s Network, and BankFinancial will host “Women Uniting for Change,” at USG. Come and enjoy an evening of networking, art, and complimentary cocktails and appetizers with other businesswomen, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. You will also learn about programs in the Southland that are transforming the lives of women through financial empowerment and education. Find out how to make a difference in your community by sharing your expertise and investing your resources. For additional information or to register, please call Rachel Hoge at 708-371-1328 or by e-mail at [email protected].

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.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, October 14

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.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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.

Junior Ecologist Club – Saturday, October 16

On Saturday, October 16 from 9 a.m. to Noon, children ages 11 – 15 can discover the woods in a new way and join naturalists to explore the woods and track seasonal changes. The Club meets on the third Saturday of each month and there is a fee of $5 per child per month. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway

Election Issues Forum – Monday, October 18

On Monday, October 18 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., GSU’s graduate Political and Justice Studies program is sponsoring a community forum on “America at the Crossroads and the Issues of the 2010 Election” in the Hall of Honors. The forum will include a short presentation by the panelists on the key issues of the 2010 midterm elections and an open community discussion. Panelists include Assistant Professor Daniel Cortese, Associate Professor Donald Culverson, Assistant Professor Chelsea Haring, and Professor Larry Levinson. The program will be followed with an open house on the graduate Political and Justice Studies program at GSU. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 708-534-4570.

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

41st Annual Fossil, Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show – Saturday, October 16 & Sunday, October 17

On Saturday, October 16 and Sunday October 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, the 41st Annual Fossil, Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show will take place at PSC’s Prairie Center Gym. There will be outstanding exhibits featuring fossils from Mazon Creek and Thornton Quarry, minerals, jewelry, lapidary, crystals, artifacts, Illinois meteorites and fluorescent stones. Joel Knapper, NASA Ambassador, will speak throughout the weekend on “Look-Back at the Space Shuttle Program and Space Stations.” There will also be demonstrations, interactive children’s area, tours of the science labs, and the ability to view sun spots (weather permitting). Dealers will also be present. For additional information, call Lee Ann Burrough at 708-709-3674 or Peggy Keating-Bolm at 708-822-0361.

‘Green’ Events

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)

Field Trip To Magic Hedge/Montrose Beach – Saturday, October 16

On Saturday, October 16 meet at 7 a.m. at the Park Forest Library to caravan to Magic Hedge/Montrose Beach. This is a bottleneck area for birds traveling through the Midwest flyway. Montrose Beach is an overnight sitdown spot for many migrants and has been restored to accommodate more birds. It is a bird magnet during migration. From Lake Shore Drive, get off at Montrose Beach exit and follow the signs. For additional information, call Al Thomas at 708-357-9847.

Shop Locally

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.

Park Forest Farmers Market

The Park Forest’s Farmers Market will be held each Saturday through October from 7 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Fresh garden plants and produce, bakery goods, gourmet cheeses, herbs and eggs will be available for sale. Local businesses will also be on hand with a variety of artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more. Meet your friends at the Farmers Market for breakfast or lunch and shop locally.

During the Farmers Market, local civic groups can give demonstrations, hold fundraisers or other events at no charge but must register in advance. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit www.pfhealth.net.

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.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

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.

Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group

Nominate a Business Person of the Year in Park Forest – Nominations Due October 29

Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a difference for you or someone you know? The Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) seeks nominees from individuals, civic groups, and businesses to recognize a Park Forest business owner who is committed to community service. Submit a completed nomination form to EDAG in care of the Village of Park Forest no later than Friday, October 29. Nomination forms can be found at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com. (PDF) For additional information, contact Sandra Zoellner at 708-283-5623 or by e-mail at [email protected].

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, Thorn Creek Audubon Society websites.