From the realm of "there’s something you don’t see every day," the balloon man on stilts from this year’s Youth Day. For more pics, including a couple of this gentle giant walking to his car, go here, and join our growing online community on Facebook!. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 2, 2013. Tickets are now on sale for Freedom Hall’s 2013 – 2014 Series. The Main Series will kick-off on September 20th with one of the south suburban’s hometown favorites, stand-up comedian Tom Dreesen. Tom, who was the opening act for Frank Sinatra in Las Vegas for many years, will provide his favorite memories of Sinatra and fellow ‘Rat Pack members.’ Many of the Freedom Hall events sell out quickly, so purchase your tickets early from the box office, over the phone or online. Details on the upcoming season can be found in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section.
You’ll also want to come out on Friday, September 6 when Illinois State Representatives Anthony DeLuca, Thaddeus Jones, Will Davis, Al Riley, Robert Rita, Andre Thapedi, Marcus Evans and Ed Sullivan take on the Mighty Rolling Falcons Wheelchair Basketball Team at Lincoln-Way Central’s North Gym in New Lenox. The goal of the event is to raise awareness of special recreation programs being offered in the south suburbs. The event is free and open to the public.
Additional information 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 Hall Closure – Monday, September 2
Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Monday, September 2 in observance of the Labor Day Holiday.
Village Board Meeting
The Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday, September 3 at 7 p.m. In addition, the Board will hold a Saturday morning rules meeting September 7 at 9 a.m. Both meetings will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend. 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 villageofparkforest.com.
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: Village Governmentand click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.
Village Commission & Advisory Boards
The following Park Forest Commissions and Advisory Boards are scheduled to meet the week of September 2:
- Tuesday, September 3 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
- Thursday, September 5 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
- Thursday, September 5 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission
The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Arts & Entertainment
Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Tickets on Sale for Freedom Hall 2013 – 2014 Series
Tickets are now on sale for Freedom Hall’s 2013 – 2014 Series. Highlights of the Main Series include:
- September 20 — The Stand-Up Comedy of Tom Dreesen and His Memories of Frank Sinatra;
- October 29 – The Mystical Arts of Tibet’s production of ‘Sacred Music/Sacred Dance’;
- November 15 – Shining Star’s Earth, Wind, and Fire Tribute;
- December 13 – The Freddy Cole Quartet;
- February 22 – CALJE (Chicago Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble); and
- March 15 – Masters of Motown.
The popular matinee series will include:
- October 15 – ‘The Singer’ with Allen Edwards;
- November 12 – Laura Freeman pays tribute to Doris Day;
- December 10 – Mac Frampton;
- February 18 – ‘Close to You – The Music of the Carpenters’;
- March 25 – ‘Cherish the Ladies’; and
- April 8 – ‘The King, The Killer, and The Cash,’ a tribute to Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.
Family Theatre shows include:
- October 25 – ‘Be a Peace of the Puzzle’; and
- March 14 – P.D. Eastman’s classic picture book ‘Are you My Mother?’
For additional information or to order tickets which can be purchased at the box office, over the phone or on-line, please call Freedom Hall at 708-747-0580 or visit the website at freedomhall.org.
Park Forest Recreation & Parks
Trip to Judge Mathis Taping and Lunch at Cheesecake Factory – Thursday, September 12
On Thursday, September 12, join us as an audience member on the Judge Mathis show. We will spend approximately 4.5 hours at the studio and afterwards have a late lunch at the Cheesecake Factory where you will have your choice of a sandwich, cheesecake and a beverage. We will department from Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive at 8:45 a.m. and return at approximately 5:30 p.m. The cost of the trip is $68 per person. You can register in-person at the Recreation & Parks Department at Village Hall or by calling 708-748-2005 to register over the phone with a credit card. Please note: We will need name, address, home phone number, emergency number, and signed waiver for each person registering for the trip. Mention Code: 348720-1 when you register. For additional information, call 708-748-2005 or visit villageofparkforest.com.
University of Illinois Football Game at Soldier Field — Saturday, September 14
On Saturday, September 14 you can experience Big Ten football live as the Fighting Illini meet the Washington Huskies at Soldier Field. This is a premium outing so limited seats are available. As an added bonus, pregame tailgating (food and games) is also include3d in your ticket price. Round trip school bus transportation is also included. The bus will depart from Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, at 2 p.m. and return at approximately 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $56 per person. You can register in-person at the Recreation & Parks Department at Village Hall or by calling 708-748-2005 to register over the phone with a credit card. Please note: We will need name, address, home phone number, emergency number, and signed waiver for each person registering for the trip. Mention Code: 347530-1 when you register. For additional information, call 708-748-2005 or visit villageofparkforest.com.
Enjoy Bingo and a White Sox Game – Wednesday, September 18
Join us on Wednesday, September 18 for an afternoon of food, fun, bingo and baseball. The trip includes buffet lunch, beer, wine and soft drinks, bingo, afternoon baseball game and transportation. We will depart from Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, at 10 a.m. and return at approximately 5 p.m. Tickets are $65 per person. You can register in-person at the Recreation & Parks Department at Village Hall or by calling 708-748-2005 to register over the phone with a credit card. Please note: We will need name, address, home phone number, emergency number, and signed waiver for each person registering for the trip. Mention Code: 348730-1 when you register. For additional information, call 708-748-2005 or visit villageofparkforest.com.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Library Closure – Monday, September 2
The Park Forest Public Library will be closed on Monday, September 2 in observance of the Labor Day Holiday.
New Library Hours — Effective Tuesday, September 3rd
Beginning Tuesday, September 3, the Park Forest Library will be open a follows:
- Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Late Library Opening – Friday, September 6
The Park Forest Public Library will open at 1 p.m. on Friday, September 6.
This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Public Library
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Public Library:
- Saturday, September 7 at 11 a.m. – Sunflower Festival — We will harvest and celebrate every part of and everything about sunflowers at this library-wide event!
For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit pfpl.org/
Freegal: Free Music Downloads – Available with Your PF Library Card
Freegal is a music download service offered to Park Forest Library cardholders for free! Using your library card and PIN number, you can download three songs a week to your computer and transfer
them to other devices. It’s fast, it’s easy and it’s free. To learn more about Freegal, visit: pfpl.org.
Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest
Park Forest House Museum
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 141 Forest Blvd, Park Forest, is open Wednesday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the museum can also be open for groups by appointment, at other times. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under free with an adult. Scout and school tours are priced individually. For details, to arrange a special group tour, or to volunteer, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252.
Park Forest Plaza Print for Sale
Annabelle Gould’s print of the Park Forest Plaza is available for sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. The vibrant print is from an original watercolor, showing kids and their moms in the Park Forest Plaza, in front of the old Holiday Theatre and Golden Hanger Shop. The print can be purchased at the House Museum during normal hours of operation on Wednesdays and Saturdays or through the Society’s online store on their website at parkforesthistory.org. Prints are $15 each. Online purchases also required an additional $6 fee for postage and handling. For additional information on other items for sale by the Society, visit parkforesthistory.org.
Salon Artists Gallery, 249 Main Street, Park Forest
‘Digital Divas’ – Opens Friday, September 6
‘Digital Divas’ featuring the digitally manipulated images of Faye Zalecki and Janet Pratt will open on Friday, September 6 and run through September 28. There will be an opening night reception on Friday, September 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with free refreshments and music. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call Patricia Moore at 708-833-5108 or Bev Szalon at 708-748-3946 or visit salonartistsgallery.com.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Showing Off’ – Annual Gallery Artists’ Exhibition – Through September 22
Tall Grass Arts Association’s annual Gallery Artists’ Exhibition ‘Showing Off’ will be featured through September 22. This show is a varied collection of work in all media, created by our Tall Grass Juried Artists that has never been exhibited in the gallery before. There are 3 exciting raffle opportunities available during this exhibit. Visit the gallery for your chance to win. Raffle drawings will take place at the exhibit closing September 22, 2013 at 4 p.m. Winners need not be present. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information, visit tallgrassarts.com or call 708-748-3377.
Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
‘Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody’—Tickets Now on Sale
It’s time for the saucy book that caused a world sensation to get Spanked! Tickets are now on sale for ‘Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody,’ the hilarious new musical that brings all the naughty fun of the best-selling book to life. Your inner goddess will be laughing out loud with this new imagining of the characters as they come to life with sharp-witted comedy, musical numbers, steamy and fun performances from the hunky leading man, plus lots of surprises. Get there early for pre-show cocktails, then stay to meet the cast after the show, and pose for a photo with the fetching star himself. Grab your girlfriends and don’t miss the funniest and most exciting girls’ night out of the year. Note: Spank! Is not associated with, nor authorized by, author E.L. James or Vintage Press. The performance will take place on Saturday, September 14 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35.75 and $45.50 and can be purchased at the box office or online at: centertickets.net/tickets_events
‘Opera Up Close’ – Tickets Now on Sale
For the fourth consecutive year, the ‘Opera Up Close’ series opens with the celebrated quartet of singers from the Lyric Opera of Chicago who will perform highlights of the 2013 – 14 season at Lyric Opera. The event will take place on Sunday, September 22 at 4 p.m. Selections will include arias and ensembles from:
- La Traviata (Verdi)
- Otello (Verdi)
- Madama Butterfly (Puccini)
- La Clemenza di Tito (Mozart)
- Die Fledermaus (Strauss)
- Barber of Seville (Rossini)
Host and narrator John Concepcion will, once again, provide insight into each opera and its highlights taking the audience on a musical journey across the world and through the ages. Don’t miss this audience favorite event. Sample a Café style opera. From your unique vantage point of your table on the stage, you’ll be looking out into the theater as the operatic stories unfold. Viennese pastries and coffee will be offered during this intimate performance on the Center’s stage. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the box office or online at: centertickets.net. For additional information, call 708-235-2222.
‘The Long and Winding Road’ Starring Jim Witter – Tickets Now on Sale
On Saturday, September 28 at 8 p.m., take a memorable trip with Jim Witter in this multimedia presentation featuring over 30 hits of the Beatles including ‘A Hard Day’s Night,’ ‘Hey Jude,’ ‘Blackbird,’ ‘Yesterday,’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’ ‘Penny Lane,’ and Jim’s favorite the Abbey Road medley. Jim is an award-winning country music and Christian music singer/songwriter. Ten of Witter’s songs reached the top 10 on Canadian country radio. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the box office or online at: centertickets.net. For additional information, call 708-235-2222.
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University (GSU) 1 University Parkway, University Park
Carts & Cocktails 2013 – Tickets Now on Sale
GSU is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Bruce Nauman’s ‘House Divided’ and the 35th anniversary of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park (NMSP) at Carts & Cocktails 2013 on Saturday, September 21 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Following cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in a lakeside tent, guests at the event will take a motorized tour of the sculpture park, where a breathtaking prairie landscape is home to 28 monumental works by some of the world’s most distinguished sculptors, including the newest addition to the collection, ‘Windwaves,’ by Mexican artists Yvonne Domenge. Rick Kogan will be a guest speaker at the event. Tickets for the event are $100 per person. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, contact NMSP at govst.edu/sculpture or call 708-235-0559. The NMSP is located at GSU’s main campus. The park is free of charge and open from dawn to dusk 365 days a year.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights
Photographer of the Year & 2013 Annual Student Art Exhibition – Through September 19
PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery is hosting the Photographer of the Year and 2013 Annual Student Exhibition through Thursday, September 19. An opening reception will be held on Wednesday, August 28 from noon to 2 p.m. The exhibit includes drawings, paintings, photographs, and mixed-media works that were produced by PSC students in the 2012 -2013 academic year. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-709-3636.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
‘Rinnio Della Vita’ Art Exhibit – Through September 12
The Art & Design Department of SSC will present an exhibition entitled ‘Rinnio Della Vita’ in the college’s Dorothea Thiel Gallery through September 12. There will be an artist reception for the artists Anne Farley Gaines and Geoffrey Novelli on September 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. The Thiel Gallery is on the fourth floor I the Art & Design hallway and is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-596-2000, extension 2445.
‘Move Over, Mrs. Markham’ – Tickets Now on Sale
The PAC Rats Theatre Company of SSC will present ‘Move Over, Mrs. Markham,’ written by John Chapman and Ray Cooney. Performances will take place in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the college’s Main Campus on September 20, 21 and 27 at 8 p.m., and September 28 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and September 29 at 2 p.m. Set in a top floor flat in London, ‘Move Over, Mrs. Markham,’ is a hilarious adult comedy revolving around misunderstandings, mix-ups and mistaken identities. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors 55 or better, and $6 for students. To purchase tickets, call the 24/7 box office voicemail line at 708-210-5471 or reserve tickets by e-mail at [email protected]. Group rates also are available.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
‘Tenacity and Truth: People, Places and Memories’ – Through Labor Day
NVAM will host the exhibit ‘Tenacity and Truth: People, Places and Memories’ on through Labor Day, September 2, 2013. The exhibit features work that was created by artists both trained and untrained who share in the overwhelming need to express their experiences through a visual language and explores the creative process behind veteran art. For additional information, visit the museum’s website at nvam.org.
‘Not About Bombs’ – Through Fall 2013
The NVAM will host the opening of ‘Not About Bombs,’ a celebrated exhibit featuring the work by five Iraqi women artists through Fall 2013. The show will be open to the public through Fall 2013. For additional information, visit the museum’s website at nvam.org.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Blvd, Chicago Heights
Union Street Beat: Open Mic Night — Friday September 6
Join Union Street Gallery for another Union Street Beat open mic night! Our open mic nights are growing fast, and feature both regulars and new comers at the mic. These open mic nights are how Union Street Gallery celebrates the closing of our exhibits. Friday September 6th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. we will be closing out two amazing exhibits Disparate Images and Fluidity. Come to perform or come to listen, either way come and enjoy the art and atmosphere. Admission is free, but a $5 minimum donation is appreciated. Refreshments will be served. Mic is open but not limited to: Poetry, spoken word, rap, freestyle, acoustic performances, singing, excerpts from books or short stories. Performers: please contact the gallery to sign-up ahead of time. Walk-ins will be welcome, but not guaranteed to perform. Please Note: Musicians must bring their own cables. The Gallery can accommodate 2 mics and 2 instruments. Gallery only has one mic on hand. No full drum sets or amps please. For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit unionstreetgallery.org.
Javier Chavira’s Exhibit ‘Disparate Images’ – Through September 7
Javier Chaviera’s exhibit ‘Disparate Images’ at USG will run through September 7. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Javier Chavira is an artist who has no misgivings about creating images that straddle the line between realism and abstraction. He is as much at home with the technical rigor of academic tradition as he is with the liberating nature of formalism. ‘Disparate Images’ is a collection of works created between 2006 and 2013 that highlight his virtuosity of employing various materials and displays a range of representational and abstract forms. A prolific artist, Javier has exhibited nationally and internationally and his work is in numerous public and private collections. Aside from being an active artist, Javier is also an educator. He is an Associate Professor of Painting and Drawing at Governors State University, Illinois, a position he’s held since 2003. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit unionstreetgallery.org.
Regional Juried Exhibit ‘Fluidity’ – Through September 7
‘Fluidity,’ a regional exhibit juried by Renee Klyczek Nordstrom, will run at USG through September 7. The exhibit is free and open to the public. ‘Fluidity’ is an exhibit of art that is fluid, calm, subdued, and peaceful. The exhibit will include 30 works of art by 29 talented artists form the Midwest region. Art exhibiting includes painting, photography, sculpture, digital art, and mixed media. Exhibiting Artists are: Richard Benoit, Cynthis Brinich- Langlois, Carol Brockman, Rexanne Coad, June Finnegan, Alicia Forestall-Boehm, Kate Froemling, Paulina Gal, Margie Glass Sula, Lea Goldman, Kim Guare, John Gutierrez, Janet Hamilton, Sharon Harper, Donna Hoyle, Mark Kennedy, Mary Jane King, Linda Lane Haynes, Paula Mattson, Claudia McCarthy, Ahavani Mullen, Gina Robbins, Leon Sarantos, Stephan Smith, Kati Toivanen, BJ Wooley, Rachel Yurkovich, and Susan Wungluck Zale. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit unionstreetgallery.org.
‘Anthology’ Works by Unions Street Gallery Studio Artists – Opens September 5 at Gallery 7
‘Anthology’ is a group show that includes drawings, paintings, sculpture and fiber pieces by Unions Street Studio Artists Clausia Craemer, Pam Eberlin, Dorita Fuller, Linda Lane Haynes, Eve Jensen, Renee Klyczek Nordstrom, Donna Radcliffe, Ginny Rafery, Jean Schuster, and Marikay Peter Witlocki. The exhibit opens on September 5 and will run through October 4 at Gallery 7, 116 N. Chicago Street, Joliet. A reception at Gallery 7 will be held on Saturday, September 7 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit unionstreetgallery.org.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
DePaul University, 525 S. State Street, Chicago
Crain’s 40 Under 40 Honorees to Discuss ‘Ripple Effect’ – Wednesday, September 18
Business owners will learn how to reshape their company culture to manage less and accomplish more during a two-part workshop on September 18 presented by the Chicago Family Business Council and Coleman Entrepreneurship Center at DePaul University. The program begins at 4 p.m. with a session on defining character traits and the importance of values-driven leadership in the workplace. Mary Deibert, president of KIARA, will explain how to create character-based leaders and value-driven performance in business environments. There also will be information on identifying prominent character traits and adapting a company’s culture. The second part of the program begins at 6 p.m., after a 5 p.m. reception. A panel discussion titled ‘Multiple Your Ripple Effect: Defining Your What, Why, and How’ will feature four of the Crain’s Chicago Business 40 under 40 honorees revealing the strategies that led to the development of their innovative business ventures. Panelists will plunge into the methods of settling and achieving goals, increasing efficiencies and making a bigger splash in their communities. Attendees will discover how to radically expand and increase output from their company while also staying true to their vision. Jill Hebert, CEO and founder of Matrex Exhibits, the largest woman-owned exhibit agency in the U.S. will moderate. Attendees may sign up for either the two-part program or separate sessions. The fee is $50, free to the CFBC and DePaul communities, and special discount for Crain’s subscribers and 1871 members. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/UncommonQuestions2.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday at GSU
The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.
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].
Roosevelt University, 425 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago
Prospective Students Visit Day – Saturday, September 14
For students beginning their senior year of high school this fall, college is right around the corner. To help those students and their parents get a head start on college planning, Roosevelt University is holding a visit day on Saturday, September 14 from 9:30 a.m. to noon in the University’s new 32-story Wabash Building. A continental breakfast will be available beginning at 9 a.m. The Wabash Building is the second tallest university structure in the country and has housing on the top 17 floors for more than 600 students, most of whom are freshmen. All of the rooms have breathtaking views of Chicago. There will be opportunities to learn about Roosevelt’s intercollegiate athletics program, career development activities, honors program and study abroad program. Guests are invited to RSVP at roosevelt.edu/visitday.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
‘2013 Late Start Classes’ at SSC
Registration for the 2013 Fall Semester at SSC is still I progress for a wide range of ‘Late Start Classes.’ Perspective students are encouraged to register soon for these 12-week courses, set to beige on Monday, September 16. The ‘Late Start Classes’ are offered in a variety of general education areas such as Art, English, Music, Mathematics, Reading, Psychology and Sociology. Al list of 12-week courses can be accessed through a link on the SSC homepage ssc.edu. Payment is due at the time of registration but financial aid can still be applied for the 12-week classes (financial aid application must be completed by September 10, 2013). New students should visit the Admissions Office in Room 2348 to complete the Application Form, or download it from ssc.edu and fax to 708-225-5823 along with a current state issued ID to begin the enrollment process. New students will receive an SSC email account and a ‘My SSC’ Username & Password via email which will allow access to the online schedule and class registration. The ‘My SSC’ portal allows students 24-hour access during college closed periods. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at 708-210-5178.
Lean Construction Project Scheduling Training Session – Registration Now in Progress
SSC’s Business & Career Institute (BCI) and WCM Associates will present a one-day training session titled ‘Lean Construction Project Scheduling.’ This event is open to the public and will include jobsite planning and pull planning simulation at the University & College Center, 16333 S. Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, on Thursday, September 12 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Many construction industry professionals do not see “Lean” as a construction application, or if they do recognize Lean in construction they think of it only as a jobsite activity. This workshop will clarify that Lean is a business operating system designed to reduce project waste and improve the amount of value supplied to the owner. Lean is a system applies to construction from RFP to project delivery and payment. Attendees will gain the information to implement a better, faster flow of both information and material to improve the quality and productivity of construction projects (working smarter not harder). This results in greater value, shorter project lead times, increased customer satisfaction and greater profits, all while preserving the environment. The cost of this one-day event is $285 per person, which includes the book “Introduction to lean Construction,” breakfast, and an afternoon snack and beverage (lunch on your own). To register please contact Nancy Burrows at 708-596-2000, ext. 2556 or email [email protected].
Fast Truck Driver Training Program Open House – Monday, September 9
SSC and STAR Truck Driving School are celebrating their five year partnership with a Truck Driving School Open House on Monday, September 9 from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Open House will take place in STAR’s Office at the college’s Main Campus, Room 1362. SSC and STAR are providing career opportunities in truck driving to local residents who are looking for a career change. The collaboration has now prepared 392 students and counting for rewarding careers since 20089 through this fast track program. The Open House will provide attendees with an opportunity to find out about all of the opportunities available, course scheduling and most importantly, to see the trucks. Instructors will also be on hand to answer questions. This event will be located in Room 1362, via entrance #10 at the south end of the Main Campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland. For additional information, please call 708-225-5884.
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 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 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.
Healthy Living
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Holistic Health Symposium – Saturday, September 7
Discover the power of holistic healing and non-traditional health therapies at the Holistic Health Symposium 2013 at GSU on Saturday, September 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. The Symposium features presentations by experts in various non-traditional therapies as well as demonstrations and exhibits. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in Latin dance, belly dancing, and Zumba instruction. The following special presentations will also be offered:
- ‘Taking Charge of Your Wellbeing with Yoga’ – 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in Engbretson Hall;
- ‘Emotional Freedom Technique’ – 11:25 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. in the Hall of Honors;
- ‘Invest in Your Health with T’ai Chi’ – 11:25 to 12:10 p.m. in the Cafeteria Annex;
- ‘What is Iridology?’ – 12:20 to 1:05 p.m. in Engbretson Hall;
- ‘Chinese Medicine’ – 1:15 to 2 p.m. in the Hall of Honors;
- ‘Animal Therapy as an Alternative Health Benefit’ – 2:20 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.; and
- ‘Shamanic Energy Work’ – 2:20 p.m. to 2:55 p.m. in the Hall of Honors.
The Holistic Health Symposium is sponsored by Student Life, College of Health and Human Services and Wellness Club. For additional information, call 708-534-4551 or visit govst.edu/wellnessprograms.
‘Boys’ in Crisis Program – Sunday, September 8
The Metropolitan Institute for Leadership in Education and Family Development Center at GSU are sponsoring a free lecture and discussion focusing on boys’ behavior and socialization. Parents, educators, and social service providers will benefit from this free presentation by author and educator Dr. Jim Littlejohn on Sunday, September 8 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the GSU campus. Dr. Littlejohn, a renowned educator and author, will present understandable and teachable objectives to successfully address the ‘why’ behind male behavior in school and what schools and families can do to become more ‘boy-friendly.’ Boys’ behavior effects socialization, the learning process, and level of success. The male brain is wired differently from the female brain and without an emotional vocabulary, a boy runs the risk of getting lost in his own emotional abyss, setting the stage for a boy’s pain, anger and rage. Dr. Littlejohn will also offer concrete and helpful methods to address the issues raised by boys’ behavior at home, in the classroom and in the community. The program is free and open to the public. For additional information or to register, call 708-534-4024 or visit govst.edu/children.
Addiction Studies Alumni Club to Host Recovery Walk – Saturday, September 14
In celebration of National Recovery month, the GSU Addictions Studies Alumni Club will sponsor their second annual Walk for Recovery on Saturday, September 14 at GSU. The Walk for Recovery is designed to honor individuals I recovery or who are seeking recovery. The event also celebrates the treatment and support service providers who are committed to helping them, and to increasing awareness surrounding addiction issues. This free event begins with registration from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. followed by a program at 9 a.m. the two or three-mile walk will commence at 10 a.m. In addition, a resource fair will be open from 8 a.m.to 1 p.m. Featured at the 9 a.m. program will be the following speakers:
- Peter Palanca, Executive Vice President and COO of Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC, Inc.) who will serve as Master of Ceremonies;
- Benneth Lee, Founder and CEO at NAEFI, counselor, community liaison and re-entry specialist for TASC, Inc.; and
- Comedian Tommy Connolly.
The event will also feature door prizes, refreshments, music and entertainment. Those who register online at govst.edu/alumniwalk will be entered for a special door prize. For additional information, call 708-534-7892.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
What Businesses Should Know About Healthcare Reform Workshop – Thursday, September 12
SSC’s College of Business & Career Institute (BCI) presents a Breakfast with BCI Workshop titled “What Businesses Should Know about Healthcare Reform” on Thursday, September 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the College’s Heritage Room. Topics will include: Health Insurance Exchanges; Health Plan Choices and Premium Costs; Small Business Tax Credits; and New Taxes and fees built in your insurance premiums. Butch Zemar, an expert on healthcare insurance will conduct the workshop. The cost of the event and refreshments is $15 per person, or $10 per person if three or more individuals from the same company attend. To register, please call 708-596-2000, ext. 2346 or e-mail [email protected].
Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive, Park Forest
School Physical Examinations By Appointment Only – Through September 6
If your child is going into Preschool, Kindergarten, 6th or 9th grade, they are in need of a physical. Schedule your appointment with the Park Forest Health Department today. You do not have to live in Park Forest, but must bring your child’s immunization records at appointment time. Appointment dates vary between Fridays (1 p.m. to 6 p.m.), Tuesdays (12 noon to 5 p.m.) and Saturdays (8 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Free for Medicaid participants. No HMO or managed care accepted. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-748-1118.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
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.
Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest
CPR Classes
CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html
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 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.
Green Events
Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest
‘Snowy Owls’ Program – Wednesday, September 4
On Wednesday, September 4 at 7 p.m. at Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock, Park Forest, TCAS will hold its monthly program ‘Snowy Owls’ featuring Josh Engel. Snowy Owls descended by the thousands into the northern tier of states during the winter of 1022 -202 with over 100 in Illinois alone. Starting with a basic question, “What is a Snowy Owl?’ Josh Engel will explore Snowy Owl biology including the factors behind the irruption, what made it so exceptional, and what he learned about their diet from dissecting their pellets. The event is free and open to the public. Please note that the church entrance is through the door that faces the Bank, not the door on Hemlock.
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Experience the Thorn Creek Nature Center
Thorn Creek Nature Center is housed in a historic building, originally Immanuel Lutheran Church of Matteson, Illinois built in 1862, and later Village Bible Church of Park Forest. A gothic frame country church, its notable architectural features include curved ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling and a raised pulpit. Its current attractions are displays of the preserve’s flora and fauna, a bird feeder viewing area, Eugene E. Schwartz reference library and an expanded children’s section. The Nature Center is open Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Trails are open daily year-round, dawn to dusk. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.
Village of Park Forest
Will County & Village of Park Forest Document Destruction Event – Saturday, September 7
On Saturday, September 7 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., you can bring your personal documents, old check stubs, bank statements, old files, IRS tax forms, and other miscellaneous paper documents for destruction in DownTown Park Forest (Cunningham Drive & Liberty Drive – off Main Street. Documents will be shredded on-site by Shark Shredding In. No business documents accepted. There is a tow file box maximum per vehicle. This event is for Park Forest residents only.
Park Forest Farmers’ Market 40th Season – Every Saturday Through October 26
Every Saturday morning through October 26th, you’ll find that the Park Forest Farmers’ Market has something for everyone. The Market opens at 7 a.m. and ends at noon. Rain or shine, come and enjoy fresh produce, bakery items, gourmet cheeses, and herbs. In addition, your favorite local businesses set up shop under their awnings with artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more! Come to the Market and see what’s new and take time to meet new friends, chat, browse, have breakfast or lunch, and shop around. Local civic groups are welcome to give demonstrations, hold fundraisers and other small events at the Market for no charge but must be registered in advance. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is located in the parking lot one block east of Walgreens; just across from the Park Forest Police Department. Electronic payment (debit and credit cards) as well as Link, WIC and Senior program coupons now accepted. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit the Farmers’ Market page at pfhealth.net.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
Fall Gardening Program “Successful Gardening: The Final Harvest’ – Saturday, September 7
New gardeners can learn how to get the most out of their gardens at PSC’s fall program “Successful Gardening: The Final Harvest” that will be held on Saturday, September 7 from 9 a.m. to noon in room K 115 located in PSC’s K-Building. Students will learn what to do with their excess harvest, including cooking, freezing and canning. They also will learn how to prepare their garden for the next growing se3ason. How to replace nutrients, remove plants, compost and prepare soil will be demonstrated. The fee for this non-credit class is $29. For additional information or to register, call 708-709-3750 or visit prairiestate.edu/ced.
Sauk-Calumet Group of the Illinois Sierra Club, Matteson
‘Grand Kankakee Marsh: Everglades of the North’ – Monday, September 9
The Sauk-Calumet Group of the Illinois Sierra Club will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, September 9 at 7:15 p.m. at the Frankfort Public Library, 21119 Pfeiffer Road (just off Route 30). The film ‘Grand Kankakee Marsh: Everglades of the North’ will be screened. The Grand Kankakee Marsh once covered an area of 500,000 acres. The film will explain how the 250 mile meandering river which fed into the marsh was channelized into the 90 mile drainage ditch that exists today. The meeting is free and open to the public. For addit6ional information, contact Patrick Coffey at [email protected].
This & That
Mighty Rolling Falcons Wheelchair Basketball Team, New Lenox
Falcons Take on Illinois State Representatives – Friday, September 6
Come out on Friday, September 6 at 6:30 p.m. and cheer on State Representatives Anthony DeLuca, Thaddeus Jones, Will Davis, Al Riley, Robert Rita, Andre Thapedi, Marcus Evans, and Ede Sullivan as they take on the Mighty Rolling Falcons Wheelchair Basketball Team at the Lincoln-Way Central’s North Gym, 1801 E. Lincoln Highway, New Lenox. While playing against the Lincolnway Special Recreation Association (LWSRA) Rolling Falcons, the State Representatives will get a chance to see first-hand what it is like to play a sport in a wheelchair. The goal of this event is to raise awareness of special recreation programs and give the participants and public the personal experience needed to become better advocates for people in our communities who have disabilities. Many or our own friends and neighbors may have great talents and abilities, but may not currently have access to special recreation programs. Many times those gifted people are sitting, unaware that such recreation opportunities exist. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call Representative DeLuca’s office at 708-754-7900.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
Rainbow Café – Saturday, September 7
Join us at UUCC on Saturday, September 7 at 7:30 p.m. for the Rainbow Café. This social event provides a safe and welcoming environment for single or partnered gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender adults and their allies, by creating a space where they are able to socialize outside of the usual bars. The Café is open every first Saturday of each month. For additional information, call 708-672-8837 or 708-408-1421.
Park Forest Baseball
Seeking Items for Garage Sale
Do you have any items that are cluttering up your home or garage but can still be used by someone? If so, you can help out Park Forest Baseball by donating any gently used items for the garage sale they will be holding on September 14 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sale will be held across from the Farmers Market in Park Forest and the proceeds will go to the fund for the building of a new Indoor Training Facility. To arrange for a pickup/drop-off of your donated items, call Mary Kay Joens at 708-503-1944 or e-mail [email protected].
Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights
Friday Fish Fry
Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, September 6 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.
Park Forest & Glenwood Lions Club
10th Annual Garage Sale & Rib Fest – Saturday, September 14
The 10 Annual Park Forest Lions Club Garage Sale will be held in conjunction with the Glenwood Lions Club Rib Fest on Saturday, September 14 in the Glenwood Plaza parking lot (183rd Street & Halsted). The cost of a space to sell your garage sale items is $40. Check in time is 6:#0 a.m. and the market will be open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. All are welcome to buy and sell your garage/household type goods. Foods, fire arms, commercial resale products, odd lots or close outs are NOT allowed. All profits benefit the Park Forest Lions Club Charities. For additional information, call Allen Warshaw at 708-476-0064.
VFW Post #331, 22341 Governors Highway, Richton Park
Stand Down 2013 Outreach Program for Homeless Veterans – Donations Accepted Through September 4
VFW Post #331 is hosting, Stand Down 2013 in Richton Park – an outreach program for Homeless Veterans seeking rest, hope and fellowship. Cook County Commissioner Joan Patricia Murphy is collecting toiletries and sundry items for the Veterans outreach event. Donations of gently used men’s clothing are needed. Donations must be received before Wednesday, September 4 at Commissioner Murphy’s District Office, 5404 W. 127th Street in Crestwood. All items will be packaged and given away to the homeless veterans.
“Stand Down – Richton Park” a veterans outreach event, will be held on September 7thy at the VFW Post 311, 22341 Governors Highway from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free health screenings, haircuts, clothing and meals will be provided. Many Social Service agencies and Veteran coordinators will be available for helpful information and services. For additional information, call Patrice at Commissioner Joan Murphy’s Office at 708-389-2125. If you wish to volunteer for the event, call Bill Browne at 708-705-6090 or e-mail [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 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.
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 Summer 2013 Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 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.
