Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of September 17, 2012


Jasmine Perkins serves pancakes
Jasmine Perkins volunteered at a previous Kiwanis Pancake Day. The community event returns this year. Read about it inside. (Photo: ENEWSPF)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 17, 2012. The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest will be hosting its 61st Annual Pancake Day on Saturday, September 22. This year’s event will be held indoors at Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood Boulevard. Guests will enjoy attentive service, greater comfort and the usual south suburban camaraderie that permeates all pancake days. Tickets include all the pancakes and sausage you can eat and coffee and milk to drink. Proceeds from the event will benefit Kiwanis Club of Park Forest’s community activities. Additional information on Pancake Day, including the locations where discounted pre-sale tickets can be purchased, can be found in the ‘This & That’ section.

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

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Advisory Board will meet the week of September 17:

  • Tuesday, September 18 at 7 p.m. – Recreation and Parks Advisory Board

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

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Library

The following events are scheduled for the week of September 17:

  • Monday, September 17 at 11:30 a.m. — Murder, Mystery, Mayhem – The New 3M Book Club.  Given the popularity of mysteries, our newest book club will have you turning your magnifying glass on novels filled with twists, trap doors and new whodunits each month. This month’s selection: "A Scandal in Bohemia" featuring Sherlock Holmes.
  • Monday, September 17 at 6:30 p.m. – Jazz on Monday Night: Icons Among Us. Jazz is undergoing changes of monumental magnitude and importance. Icons Among Us: Jazz in the Present Tense is a documentary film series that captures the metamorphosis of jazz by showcasing the words, music, and spirit of the artists that are paving the way for an unprecedented musical revolution. Through interviews and live performance footage, we explore the thoughts and lives of the musicians spearheading today s jazz front lines. The 4-part series examines the jazz music scene today by focusing the spotlight on many current jazz icons including Terence Blanchard, Ravi Coltrane, Robert Glasper, Nicholas Payton, Brian Blade & the Fellowship Band, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Donald Harrison Jr., Anat Cohen, Esperanza Spalding, and Medeski Martin and Wood.
  • Tuesday, September 18 at 6:30 p.m. – Tuesdays Full of Blues: Maxwell Street. The new season of Blues begins with a very fine documentary film on the “blues scene” in Chicago’s historic Maxwell Street district during the ‘50s and ‘60s.
  • Wednesday, September 19 at 1 p.m. – Opera in the Afternoon: the Magic Flute. We present another fine season from the Metropolitan Opera archives. All productions feature English sub-titles. Featuring Mozart’s Magic Flute with James Levine conducting.

For additional information, call 708-748-3731.

Library to Host Scrabble Tournament in Memory of Stephanie Fisher – Registration Required

The Park Forest Library will host a Scrabble tournament for ages 12 and up on November 3 and 4. Players will compete for prizes and bragging rights in two age categories, 12 – 17 and 18 and up. To make this a special event, the Library will use the custom made Scrabble table for the final games of the tournament. This table was made possible with donations from the family and friends of Stephanie Fisher, an avid Scrabble player. The event is free and open to the public but registration is required no later than October 15. You can register in person at the Library, or call 708-748-3731, extension 15, or register online at www.pfpl.org.

Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

2012 – 2013 Season Announced – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets for Freedom Hall’s Nathan Manilow Theatre 2012 – 2013 Season are now available.
Main series events are:

  • Second City for PRESIDENT — October 19 at 7:30 p.m.
  • C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band – November 2 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Peter Mayer ‘Stars and Promises’ – December 22 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Masters of Motown – February 22 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Hank and my Honky Tonk Heroes – March 23 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Julie Fowlis: Music of the Scottish Isles – April 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Family Theatre series events are:

  • Kids for PRESIDENT – October 26 at 7 p.m.
  • The Rainbow Fish – February 15 at 7 p.m.

 

Senior series events are:

  • Travis LeDoyt ‘Tribute to the King’ – October 9 at 11 a.m.
  • Mike Toomey’s TV & Me – November 13 at 11 a.m.
  • ‘Home for the Holidays’ featuring Beckie Menzie and Tom Michael – December 11 at 11 a.m.
  • Metro Jazz Voices: Four-part Harmony, Love Songs for Valentines — February 5 at 11 a.m.
  • Switchback – American Roots – Celtic Soul – March 12 at 11 a.m.
  • Billy Elton – Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel and Elton John – April 9 at 11 a.m.

If you purchase 3 or more Main series events, you are considered a subscriber and are entitled to reduce ticket price (NOTE: Senior series and Family Theatre are not included). For ticket prices and additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

Grande Prairie Choral Arts, 266 Somonauk, Park Forest

2012 – 2013 Season Announced – Tickets Now on Sale

Based in Park Forest since 1977 but drawing singers from the entire Chicago Southland, the Grande Prairie Singers are led by Artistic Director Jo Rodenburg, now in her third season with the chorus. The 2012-13 season includes three Sunday-afternoon concerts:

  • "Winterlude," December 9;
  • "On This Island: Music of the British Isles," March 3, 2013; and
  • "American Choral Music Today," May 19, 2013.

Season tickets are available for $40. For more information on the Singers or Grande Prairie Choral Arts’ Children’s Choral Workshop, call 708-481-8684, e-mail at [email protected], or visit: www.grandeprairiechoral.org.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

‘History of the 1950s Park Forest House Museum’ Discussion at Annual Meeting – Sunday, September 23

The Park Forest Historical Society will hold its annual meeting on Sunday, September 23 at 2:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. How the 1950s Park Forest House Museum began and the history of its first fourteen years will be presented in an illustrated talk by volunteer Museum Director, Jane Nicoll. The Society’s annual meeting and election of new board members will precede the program. September is membership drive month for the Society. Those who join or renew a membership at this meeting will get their choice of a free gift.

It’s Halloween at the Park Forest House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard, is ready for Halloween visitors. Vintage Halloween decorations will be on display through October 31. The display includes a collection of Gurley Halloween candles, die-cut decorations, and a boxed costume with mask. The museum is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or for small groups by appointment. Donation is Adults- $5; 12 & under free with a paying adult. Group tours may be subject to special pricing. The tour is free with the purchase of a Marshall Field’s Park Forest Store brick at 1 for $15; 2 for $25. Convenient, free, street parking is available right outside the front door. The museum is operated by the Park Forest Historical Society and sponsored by Andrew Brown of Central Park Townhomes. For additional information, visit www.parkforesthistory.org.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

 ‘Luminosity’ – Through October 7

‘Luminosity,’ the Gallery Artists Annual Exhibit runs through October 7. The exhibit features more than 50 artists. The works presented are in a variety of media including watercolors, oils and acrylics, and photography pastels and pencil. In addition to the two-dimension works, there are several three dimensional works including hand-painted gourds and painted porcelain. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information and Gallery hours, call 708-748-3377 or visit http://www.tallgrassarts.org.

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Broadway’s Next H!T Musical – Friday, September 21

On Friday, September 21 at 8 p.m., the Center will kick off its 18th season with ‘Broadway’s Next H!T Musical.’ Master improvisers collect mad-up song suggestions from the audience and create a spontaneous evening of music, humor, and laughter. The audience picks a favorite song and the cast turns it into a full-blown improvised musical, complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue, and plot twists. Tickets range in price from $50 to $15. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

Drama Group Studio Theatre, 330 W. 202nd Street, Chicago Heights

Tickets Now Available for 2012 – 2013 Season—Season Ticket Discounts Through September 21

The Drama Group has been ‘Ringing Broadway to the South Suburbs since 1931.’ For a limited time only, you can purchase tickets for the very best of local theatre and save over 35% in individual ticket prices. Purchase a season ticket by September 21 and you will receive a Subscriber Discount Card, which includes special discount offers from local businesses, restaurants and services as well as one free ticket per order to one of the shows. Performances for the 2012 – 2013 season are:

  • November 30 through December 9 – ‘12 Angry Men’,
  • February 15 through 24 – ‘Superior Donuts’,
  • May 3 through 4 – ‘The Wiz’,
  • June 7 through 16 – ‘God of Carnage’,
  • August 2 through 11 – ‘West Side Story.’

The Drama Group Daytime Children’s Theatre will present:

  • November 14 through 18 – ‘Winnie the Pooh & Friends Birthday Tail’, and
  • March 20 through 24 – ‘The Adventures of Pinocchio.’

For additional information, ticket prices, or to purchase tickets, call 708-755-3444 or visit www.dramagroup.org.

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

Photographer of the Year and 2012 Annual Student Exhibition – Through September 30

The Christopher Art Gallery at PSC is hosting the Photographer of the Year and 2012 Annual Student Exhibition through Sunday, September 30. The exhibit includes drawings, painting, photographs, and mixed media works that were produced by PSC students in the 2011 – 2012 academic year. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery Hours, please visit: http://prairiestate.edu/artgallery/.

Anime Club Hosting Maneki Neko Con Convention – Tickets Limited to First 700 Registrants

The PSC Anime Club is hosting Maneki Neko Con, an Anime/Sci-Fi convention from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.. on Saturday, September 29 at PSC’s main campus, 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights. The convention features classes and workshops focusing on anime, art, science fiction, fantasy, costuming, writing, and Japanese culture related topics. The convention will be followed by a 6:30 p.m. masquerade, limited to the first 400 attendees in line. Tickets are limited to the first 700 registrants, so pre-registration by September 12 is recommended. The cost for adults 18-years old or older is $20. A discounted rate of $15 is available to students at any school or military service members. The cost for children 7 to 11 years old is $5, and children up to 6 years old are admitted free, but still need to register. Group rates are available to schools. Lunch is available for purchase at the cafeteria on campus. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit www.prairiestate.edu/animeclub or e-mail [email protected]. Registration forms can be mailed in or brought to the Business Office on campus.

Monkey Mind Art Studio, 3 West Nebraska, Frankfort, IL

‘Seasons of My Life’ – Through October 8th

The exhibit ‘Seasons of My Life’ will be featured at the Gallery through October 8. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 815-464-8818 or visit www.monkeymindartstudio.com.

‘The Pantry’ of Rich Township, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park

20th Annual ‘Fall Into the Holidays’ Fashion Show – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for ‘The Pantry’ of Rich Township’s 20th Annual Fall Fashion Show, ‘Fall Into the Holidays.’ The event will be held on Sunday, October 17 at the Holiday Inn and Convention Center, 18501 S. Harlem Avenue, Tinley Park, beginning at 12:30 p.m. with a Social Hour. Luncheon will be served at 1:30 p.m. and the Fashion Show will begin at 2:15 p.m. There will be raffles and a Silent Auction where you can bid on items including sports memorabilia, celebrity autographed items, gift baskets, jewelry, and more. Tickets are $35. Please R.S.V.P. no later than October 4, 2012. Proceeds from the event will benefit ‘The Pantry’ of Rich Township. For additional information or to purchase tickets, please call Vicki Line or Carol Pivoney at 708-748-6722.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Knowledge Exchange Classes Being at GSU – Friday, September 21

The opening session of GSU’s Office of Continuing Education begins a new program, The Knowledge Exchange, on September 21 with classes on Fridays, from 10 a.m. to noon, and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Course offerings include a wide range of classes from civic engagement to play reading to cinema studies and the Supreme Court, and topics in science. The Knowledge Exchange is a continuation of the former Adult Learning Exchange (T.A.L.E.) with the same focus – to continue to offer unique and diverse non-credited courses at a reasonable price ($73 per class, $28 for an additional class). Classes are designed for participants aged 55 years and over and provide a relaxed and friendly environment, open to shared learning and the free exchange of opinions and ideas. Classes are peer-led by a community of dedicated volunteers including GSU faculty and alumni, and many former Exchange students. Call the Office of Continuing Education at 708-534-4099 for additional information or to register.

GSU Offers Computer Networking Series

Computer Network training is now available at GSU this fall. The Computer Networking Series enables participants to gain career enhancing skills through non-credit courses. Students will receive training preparing them for certifications in Comptia’s A+ and Cisco’s Certified Network Administration. Courses may be taken individually or in sequence, depending on individual career and education goals. Course topics include Computer Hardware, Networking Fundamentals, Networking Switches and Routing, Wireless Networking, Windows Seven Operating System, and Windows Server Operating System. For additional information about the Computer Networking Series, contact the School of Continuing Education at 708-534-4099.

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday at GSU

The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.

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

Opt In to Technology at PSC

You can bridge the gap between technology and a new you at PSC’s new Opt In program that consists of two computer training centers and free classes to teach basic technological skills. One location is at the Adult Training and outreach Center in Room A145 at PSC’s main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The other location is at the Matteson Area Center’s Computer Training Lab located at 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson. Hours for this location are Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. No matter what skill level you have or want to have, Opt In can help. Both computer labs and on-site tutors are free and open to the public. For additional information, call Lisa Zeigler at 708-709-3548 or e-mail [email protected].

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 12 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.

Online Educational Resources

Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.

Top U.S. Universities

Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At http://www.topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.

Green Events

Village of Park Forest

Donations Still Needed to Help Rebuild Central Park Wetlands Observation Deck

As Park Forest residents know, a fire occurred in the Central Park Wetlands on June 27 that resulted in approximately $10,000 in damages. Unfortunately, the deductible on the Village’s insurance policy is higher than the damages, so an insurance claim cannot be made. The observation deck was used by many in the south suburbs – young and old alike, to enjoy the beauty of the Central park Wetlands’ variety of native plants and view the more than 100 species of birds that have been identified by volunteers from the Thorn Creek Audubon Society. In the true spirit of Park Forest, a grassroots effort to rebuild the observation deck has been started by George and Connie Manno. In addition, the Environment Commission, Recreation & Parks Advisory Board and Park Forest Rotary Club are assisting with the fundraising. If you would like to contribute to the fund, please send a check payable to the Village of Park Forest indicating in the memo section ‘observation deck donation’ and send to:
Village of Park Forest
Recreation & Parks Department
350 Victory Drive
Park Forest, IL 60466.

Park Forest Environment Commission

Rain Barrel Sale

The Park Forest Environment Commission is currently holding a sale on rain barrels for a cost of $30 each – reduced from $55. The sale price is for rain barrels currently in stock. Rain barrels are used to collect and store rain water, typically from rooftops. However, unique ways can be devised to harvest water into a rain barrel as you can see at the community garden located at the Park Forest Fire Station. The collected water is then used for watering lawns and gardens. To purchase a barrel, see staff at the Recreation & Parks Department at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. For additional information about rain barrels, e-mail Commissioner Jim Saxton at [email protected].

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

Thorn Creek Audubon Society 2012 Fall Bird Seed Sale

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS) 2012 Bird Seed Sale is one of the organization’s primary fund-raising projects. Proceeds from last fall’s sale helped fund the 2011 – 12 grants for south suburban projects benefiting the environment totaling $2,000. The DeLong Company, one of the largest in the Midwest, will supply the seed this fall. All orders must be received by October 1st. Pick-up date is Saturday, October 27 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard Drive. All orders MUST be picked up on delivery day. For a complete list of available items and pricing, visit: www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org. For additional information, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847.

Safer Pest Control Project, 4611 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago

6th Annual Ladybug Bash – Tickets Now on Sale

Safer Pest Control Project will be hosting its 6th Annual Ladybug Bash on Thursday, October 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Ravenswood Event Center, 4043 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago. This year’s event will be honoring Kim Stone for her activism over the past two decades to improve community and environmental health. Guests will be treated to organic wine from Frey Vineyards, music and craft beer. WXRT morning DJ Lin Brehmer will MC the evening and preside over the live auction, which features items from City Provisions, Organic Valley, and Patagonia. Special musical guest, Ms. Ladybug, will sing as well. Tickets are $65 if purchased by October 4 or $75 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.spcpweb.org/donate or by calling 773-878-7378.

Healthy Living

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

Walks for Recovery at GSU – Saturday, September 22

Put your feet to good use and take a walk. The GSU Addictions Studies Alumni Club and GSU Alumni Association are sponsoring the Walk for Recovery on Saturday, September 22. The event celebrates National Recovery Month. The Recovery Walk is a two-mile walk around the GSU campus and the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. In addition to the walk, there will be door prizes, refreshments, music and entertainment, and a resource fair. Featured speakers include Peter Palanca, GSU Senior lecturer in addictions studies and Executive Vice President and COO of TASC, Ind.; Theodora Binion, Director of the Illinois Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse; Dr. Groove, inspirational spoken word artist; and comedian Tommy Connolly. Admission is free and there is no charge to participate in the walk. Registration is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. The program begins at 9 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. To register online and to be entered to win a special door prize, visit www.govst.edu/alumniwalk. For additional information, call 708-534-4128.

Free Psychotherapy Available from GSU’s Psychology Program

GSU’s Psychology Department is offering free psychotherapy services to members of the community. Conversations with a psychotherapist can help people cope with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transition problems. Confidential, one-on-one sessions are held with a GSU graduate student in psychology under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Individuals and couples, 18 years and older, are eligible. All sessions are conducted in Matteson, IL. The number of sessions is determined by the client’s needs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-235-2841.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers –Wednesday, September 19

Each Wednesday through November 14, those 11 through adult can follow the forest’s fall changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on Thorn Creek’s autumn trails. The walk will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. each week. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. The terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Village of Park Forest

39th Annual Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday Through October 27

The 39th Annual Farmers’ Market will be held from 7 a.m. to 12 noon on the corner of Lakewood & Cunningham Drive through October 27. The market offers local fresh vegetables, fruits, organic breads, cookies, specialty produce, garden bedding plants, perennials, garden ornaments, salsas, BBQ pork chops, hamburgers, Polish sausage, fresh tamales, jewelry, funnel cakes, and fundraising products from a variety of individuals and civic groups. For additional information, call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.pfhealth.net.

Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Community Nutrition Network (CNN) site located inside the Rich Township’s Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 11 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

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 program 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

Kiwanis Club of Park Forest

61st Annual Pancake Day – Tickets Now On Sale

The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest is launching its 61st Annual Pancake Day emphasizing personalized services in a new indoor format in the dining facilities at Celebration Ministries (formerly Hope Lutheran Church) at 424 Indianwood Blvd., on Saturday, September 22, from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy attentive service, greater comfort, and the usual south suburban camaraderie that permeates all pancake days. Golden pancakes will be prepared at 4 independent pancake cooking stations and Kiwanis "certified" sausages will be baked in kitchen ovens in rapid response to instantaneous demand. In parallel to our societal move from large centralized production systems to small hand-held personalized computing, for example, i-pads, Kiwanis Pancake Day is being transformed from the "Pankatron" years to an even more personalized and responsive serving of high quality pancakes and sausages. Come and enjoy our new i-pancakes! Tickets still include all the pancakes and sausage you can eat, and coffee and milk to drink. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at the Park Forest Farmers Market, Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, or Tower Cleaners, 230 Forest Boulevard. Pre-sale tickets are priced at $5 for adults and $2 for children under 12. The day of the event, tickets will be priced at $6 for adults and $3 for children under 12. Proceeds from the event will benefit Kiwanis Club of Park Forest’s community activities.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department

Chicago Bulls vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Trip – Limited Tickets Available

On Tuesday, October 23, a thunder storm is approaching the United Center. Come see NBA Scoring Champ Kevin Durant and the OKC Thunder invade the United Center to face off against the Chicago Bulls in a pre-season clash. There are only 30 tickets available to this premium game. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. Tickets are $35 per person and include round-trip school bus transportation which will depart from Park Forest Village Hall at 5:30 p.m. and return at approximately 10:30 p.m. You can register over the phone with a credit card at 708-748-2005 or in person at the Recreation & Parks Department at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.  You will need to provide the name, address and phone number of each person registering for the trip. 

Park Forest Economic Development

Business Breakfast – Friday, September 28

The next Park Forest Business Breakfast will take place on Friday, September 28th from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Dining on the Green Banquet Hall, 349 Main Street, in DownTown Park Forest.  The topic will be on how Linked-In and other social media can help business professionals with their business and networking.  The speaker will be Courtney Sanders, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing at Governors State University. A complimentary full breakfast will be provided. There will be a prize for the person who brings in the most guests. For additional information or to register, call 708-283-5617 or visit www.pf2012septbreakfast.eventbrite.com.

Park Forest Rotary Club

Winter Clothing Items Needed to Distribute to Homeless Veterans at November Stand Down Day

Stand Down Day is a time when homeless veterans from the Chicago land area will have access to comprehensive social and medical services that help to prepare them for the harsh winters of Chicago. The veterans will also be treated to a hot meal from Robinson’s Ribs. Rotary Clubs have joined together with the Hines and Jesse Brown Medical Centers, several Chicago area veterans groups and community organizations to collect coats, hats, and gloves for distribution to our veterans at this annual event. The organizing partners of Stand Down Day are expecting more than 850 veterans to attend this year’s event. The Park Forest Rotary Club will be collecting coats, hats and gloves in good condition to provide to the veterans. Donated items can be dropped off at:

  • Village Manager’s Office, 2nd floor of Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, or
  • Tower Cleaners, 230 Forest Boulevard, in DownTown Park Forest.

Donations should be made by November 5. In addition, volunteers are needed to help at the Stand Down Day event. If you would like to volunteer, please call Tom Mick, at 708-748-1129.

Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG)

Seeking Nominations for 2012 Business Person of the Year – Nomination Deadline is October 31

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.  Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a difference for you or someone you know?  Submit your completed nomination form to EDAG in care of the Village of Park Forest no later than October 31, 2012.  Contact Sandra Zoellner at [email protected] or 708-283-5623.

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.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

‘Hacking Democracy’ – Saturday, September 22

On Saturday, September 22 at 7 p.m., UUCC will screen the documentary ‘Hacking Democracy.’ A discussion will follow the movie. Electronic voting machines count about 87% of the votes cast in America today. But are they reliable and safe from tampering? If the voting process is not secure, then our democracy isn’t safe either. This timely documentary exposes gaping holes in the security of America’s electronic voting system. Free coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. Bring a snack to share if you wish. The event is open to the public. Optional donations will be accepted. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

St. Paul’s Community Church, 182 Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL

Modern Square Dancing – Monday, September 10

Are you looking for something that is healthy, provides exercise and is mentally stimulating? Looking for something to do with your friends, significant other or spouse? Single and looking for a way to meet new friends? Then we have the answer. Join us on Monday, September 10 from 7 pm. to 9 p.m. at St. Paul’s Community Church for Modern Square Dancing. No experience required. If you can walk and listen, you can square dance. There is a fee of $6 per person. For additional information, call Flora Haynes at 708-748-4909 or 708-334-4909.

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.

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

Good As New Thrift Store – Seeking Donations

The Sertoma Centre’s Good As New Thrift Store, 4331 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, is seeking donations of gently used furniture and other household items in good condition. Proceeds from the sale of items at the Thrift Store go directly to supporting the 14 programs offered by Sertoma Centre. The store also serves as a training program for consumers at Sertoma to allow them to gain experience and transition into permanent retail jobs. The Thrift Store will pick up furniture donations within the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago free of charge. To make an arrangement to make a tax deductible donation of furniture to Good As News, call 708-481-5627. For additional information, to schedule a tour, volunteer or to make a donation, please call Amy Chmura at 708-730-6206 or e-mail [email protected].

Rotary Club of Park Forest

The Rotary Club of Park Forest urges you to purchase a Golden Opportunities 2012 book to help support its youth activities. Books are only $25 and are now available for purchase at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Blvd.

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

"Operation Hero Miles" collects unused frequent flyer miles to help military families visit service members who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are recovering in military hospitals around the world. Airline partners are: AirTran, Alaska Airlines, American, Frontier, Midwest, Northwest, United, and US Airways. To donate airline miles, visit www.FisherHouse.org.

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

The Village of Park Forest is currently seeking the names and addresses of local military personnel currently serving overseas so that they may receive packaged donations from Park Forest residents. If you are a Park Forest resident and have a family member from your household currently deployed or if you have recently returned from a tour of duty, please call Judi Lancaster at 708-283-5608 or stop by the Manager’s Office at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.

Greening of Park Forest

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

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

If you have a used motorized wheelchair that you no longer need and would like to help a person with a disability, the Sertoma Centre will accept your donation. Contact Melanie Jones at 708-730-6206 for additional information.

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) is seeking cell phone donations for their ongoing fundraising program. Proceeds from the collection fund the critical programs and services provided to families who experience domestic violence. All victim services are provided free of charge and are available in English and Spanish. Cell phone collection sites currently include:

  • SSFS Administrative Office, 18139 Harwood, Homewood, IL
  • Bergstein’s NY Deli, 200 Dixie Highway, Chicago Heights, IL
  • Doyle Designed Salon, 2630 Flossmoor Rd., Flossmoor, IL

 

All donations are tax deductible and receipts are available at collection sites. For more information about SSFS or the fundraising drive, please contact Ms. Meilach at 708-794-2140, extension 303.

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

Do you have old televisions, computers, video games or other electronics or household appliances that need to be recycled? Want to know how to properly dispose of old or unused medication? Click on the "Recycling" icon found on the top of eNews Park Forest and you will find useful information on proper recycling/disposal that will not only be good for the environment, but in some cases, earn you a few dollars as well.

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

The Park Forest Health Department and Environment Commission have partnered to provide information on the proper disposal of bio-waste such as used syringes or lancets (medical sharps). Begin by purchasing a Sharps container to dispose of your medical sharps for $10 at the Park Forest Health Department. Return the filled container to the Park Forest Health Department and purchase a new container. Call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118 for more information.

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is conducting a used cell phone and accessory collection drive to benefit the families and programs of the South Suburban Family Shelter. Donated items can be placed in the collection box located in the lobby of Village Hall. For more information, call Denyse Carreras at 708-283-5603.

Sources: Park Forest 2012 Autumn Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 2012 Park Forest Spring/Summer Calendar, Park Forest ‘Discover’ magazine, Rich Township Report, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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