In and Around Park Forest October 4, 2010

Mayor Ostenburg (left) and Finance Director Mary Dankowski receive the Distinguished Budget Award and Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from Kevin Wachtel of the Government Finance Officers Association. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)— October 4, 2010. Petition packets are currently available at Village Hall for any resident interested in running for elected office in Park Forest in the April 5, 2011 election. On the ballot in April will be the office of the Mayor, and three Village trustees, each with a 4-year term. Three Library Trustees will also be elected in the April 5 election, each for a 6-year term. The filing period for all offices is December 13 – 20. Petitions should be filed in the Village Clerk’s Office at Village Hall between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For additional information, please call Sandra Black at 708-283-5605.

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’s scheduled meeting on Monday, October 4 at 8 p.m., has been canceled. 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 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:

• Plan Commission – Tuesday, October 5 at 7 p.m.
• Economic Development Advisory Group – Wednesday, October 6 at 7 p.m.
• Senior Citizens Advisory Board – Thursday, October 7 at 1 p.m.
• Environment Commission – Thursday, October 7 at 7 p.m.

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

Park Forest Fire Department

Firefighters’ Memorial Parade, Thursday, October 7

The annual Twilight Memorial Parade, held in honor of those firefighters who have lost their lives protecting ours, will be held on Thursday, October 7 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The parade will begin at Calvary United Protestant Church (intersection of Route 30 and Orchard Dr.) and wind its way throughout town and back to the Fire Station. Approximately 40 – 50 pieces of fire equipment generally participate in this moving memorial parade. Take a moment to come out and show your appreciation of the sacrifices and continued efforts of the Park Forest firefighters and paramedics.

Open House – Saturday, October 9

The Park Forest Fire Department will host their annual open house on Saturday, October 9 from 9 a.m. to Noon. Bring your family out for a fun filled day including tours, displays and child firefighter photos.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

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

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

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“Anna Christie” – Through October 10

The Illinois Theatre Center opens its 35th season with “Anna Christie,” Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize winning classic tale of an old sailor’s reunion with the daughter he abandoned as a child. This play has been thrilling audiences around the world for 90 years. The play will run through October 10. 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.

Film Discussion Series – The Last Station — Sunday October 10

Tall Grass Arts Association’s Art Film Discussion Series continues on Sunday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. with the screening of The Last Station at Marcus Theater, 1301 Hilltop Ave., Chicago Heights. 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 – Tickets Now on Sale

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.

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. 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 – Tickets Now on Sale

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 – Tickets Now On Sale

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.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU

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, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights, IL

Either/Or – Opens Friday, October 8

Either/Or features work from talented artists from all over the country and opens on Friday, October 8 and will run through November 20. An opening reception will be held on Friday, October 8 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 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 7

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.

Friends of Thorn Creek Annual Meeting – Saturday, October 9

On Saturday, October 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., join the Friends of Thorn Creek Board and members for their annual meeting. Discover upcoming projects at the nature center and what you can do to help Thorn Creek Woods. Bring a dish to share for the potluck lunch. Enjoy a fall hike with a naturalist at the end of the meeting. Be sure to bring a friend. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

League of Women Voters of Park Forest Area

Film Screening & Discussion — Sunday October 10

On Sunday October 10 at 2 p.m., the League of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area will host a free film screening of the movie, “Iron-Jawed Angels” at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. A discussion will follow the film. Alice Paul (played by Academy Award-winner Hilary Swank) and the women of the 1918 Women’s Suffrage movement fight for the right to vote and run for office. Sacrificing their health, marriages, and the limited amount of freedom they had, women were imprisoned and force fed after picketing and hunger-striking against war-time President Woodrow Wilson, but survived to see the results of their efforts. The public is encouraged to attend this free film screening and help us celebrate the 90th anniversary of the League of Women Voters. For additional information, visit: www.lwvpfa.org.

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

Illinois International/Global Business Certificate Courses – Register Now

CenterPoint at GSU is hosting a five-day course that prepares participants for the State of Illinois Certificate in International Business and Certified Global Business Processional Series. Classes will take place on October 28 and 29, and November 11, 12, and 19 at GSU’s main campus. All classes are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The State of Illinois Certificate in International Business and Certified Global Business Processional Series is designed for executives, professionals, senior staff, and entrepreneurs who would like to improve their knowledge and strategies in international business. An early registration fee of $550 is available through October. The standard registration rate of $595 is valid from October 7 through October 25, the final day of registration. Cost includes course materials, continental breakfast, and refreshments. Participants will also receive free registration for a review course for the NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) credential exam on December 3. To register or receive additional information, contact CenterPoint at 708-534-4929 or visit: www.centerpointgsu.com.

GMAT Prep Classes – Register Now

The GMAT preparation course is being offered at GSU beginning Saturday, October 9. The non-credit course prepares students who plan to take the GMAT, an admission requirement for many graduate programs. The series will be offered on Saturdays, October 9, 16, 23, and 30, and November 6 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room B2202. The cost of the six sessions is $300. For more information or to register, call 708-534-4391.

Graduate Business Programs Open House – Saturday, October 9

On Saturday, October 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Cafeteria Annex, GSU will host a graduate programs open house. Information on graduate programs in business administration, public administration, management information systems, and accounting, as well as admission requirements and financial aid will be presented. There will be ample opportunity to meet with advisors and administrators to have questions answered. Attendees are encouraged to bring official or unofficial transcripts for review. The $50 application fee will be waived for applicants who apply and submit official transcripts at the open house. A continental breakfast will be served. For additional information or to RSVP by Thursday, October 7, call 708-534-4391.

‘Green’ Events

Safer Pest Control Project’s Ladybug Bash – Saturday, October 8

On Saturday, October 8 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Safer Pest Control Project will hold its Ladybug Bash at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL. Enjoy delicious food including pizza from Union Restaurant, bid on cool items in the silent auction, groove to the sounds of the Steve Schneck Trio, and honor the Evanston Environmental Board for the successful passage of a sustainable pest control and pesticide reduction policy. Tickets are $65 per person in advance and $75 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.spcpweb.org/donate.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)

Birds of New Zealand and Tasmania – Wednesday, October 6

On Wednesday, October 6 at 7 p.m. at the Wetlands Discovery Center, 30 North Orchard Dr., TCAS October program will feature Glyn Dawson discussing birds of New Zealand and Tasmania.

Field Trip To McGinnis Slough – Saturday, October 9

On Saturday, October 9 at 8 a.m., meet at the McGinnis Slough parking lot (about 187th Street on the west side of LaGrange Road) where we will hope to see a variety of waterfowl such as ducks and perhaps swans that have been forced off the ponds in Canada as winter takes over. Although the McGinnis sign may not be visible, there is a turn lane into the preserve. For additional information, contact Mary Anne McLean at 708-672-5494.

Prairie State College (PSC), 201 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights

Wind Energy Summit

PSC and the Chicago Southland Wind Council are hosting a wind energy summit for organizations interested in wind energy. The summit will be held on October 11 and 12 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Business and Community Education Center located on PSC’s main campus. The purpose of the summit is to provide a forum to educate organizations about wind energy, encourage involvement, and develop business relationships. Eize de Vries, journalist and university lecturer from the Netherlands; Laura Mueller, Vice President of Human Resources for Germany-based Nordex Energy; Joe Coleman, Sourcing Leader, Acciona Windpower North America, LLC; Jeff Anthony, Director of Business Development for the American Wind Energy Association; and Dr. John Galiotos, Director of the Energy Institute at Houston Community College Northeast are among the keynote presenters. Registration is $175 which includes the summit, breakfast and lunch on both days, and a vendor expo. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, contact Julie DeLong at 708-709-7919 or [email protected] or Harry Holtz, Chicago Southland Wind Council at [email protected].

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

Connect Café – Thursday, October 7

On Thursday, September 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., the Connect Café is a place for the community to hang out, have a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate, listen to music, talk, play a game of chess, or just relax. Kid friendly, also for Mom’s and Dad’s. This event will be held every Thursday. For more information, call 708-748-1995 or visit www.celebration4.org.

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.

Men’s Breakfast Fellowship – Saturday, October 9

Join the Men’s Ministry on Saturday, October 9 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for food and discussion. Men of all ages are welcome. This event is held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. For more information, call 708-748-1991.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

Scrapping Sister – Monday, October 4

Join the Scrapping Sisters on Monday, October 4 from 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. and show your scrapbooking talent. Food will be provided. Feel free to bring a side to share or provide a donation for food and supplies. This event is held on the 1st Monday of every month. For more information, call 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.

Weavers Guild South, 847 Hutchinson, Flossmoor, IL

Weavings & Diversities/10 Holiday Boutique – Saturday, October 9

On Saturday, October 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Weavers Guild South’s Holiday Boutique will feature wearable art, scarves, hats, jewelry, table linens, handmade baskets and ceramics for sale.

Garden Club of Park Forest

Annual Fall Bazaar, Sunday, October 10

On Sunday, October 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., come join us for a day of fun, shopping and gardening experience. There will be crafts, door prizes, bake sale, white elephant sale and plenty of food. A gardening program will be done by Kay MacNeal, “The Blue Bird Lady,” from Frankfort. There will be a $6 charge for non-members. For additional information, call Margaret Warden at 708-672-7928. For membership information, call Alice Michalak at 708-748-3654.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Ave., Park Forest

International Sunday, October 10

On Sunday, October 10 from 8:30 a.m. to Noon, joining Trinity will be a guest preacher who is a church leader from one of the partner churches in another country. Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Education hour will begin at 9:30 a.m. Please contact Reverend Linda Johnson Seyenkulo at 708-747-8388 for additional information.

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/clientuploads/Economic_Development/Business/Nominationform-2010final.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.