In and Around Park Forest Week of January 28, 2013

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—January 28, 2013. Park Forest picnic permits for Somonauk, Central and Logan pavilions for 2013 dates will be issued beginning Saturday, February 2, 2013 at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. For additional information about the lottery permit procedure, visit: http://www.villageofparkforest.com

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

Village Board Meetings

The Board of Trustees has cancelled the Board Meeting scheduled for Monday, January 28th.

A Saturday morning Rules Meeting will be held on February 2 at 9 a.m. 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 www.villageofparkforest.com.

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Library Hours on Friday, February 1

On Friday, February 1, the Library will be closed from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM for staff safety training. The Library will be open from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Public Library

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

• Monday, January 28 at 10:30 a.m. – Imagine! Create! Participate! — This program is designed for children ages 3-5 and will include not only a story, but the use of their imaginations. It’s designed to help children develop their creativity while interacting and connecting to other children in the community. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Monday, January 28 at 12 noon – Book Discussion ‘Sold’ — Discuss ‘Sold’ by Patricia McCormick. You may check out the book from the Patron Services desk three weeks in advance of the discussion date. The club will continue to meet the forth Monday of the month.
• Monday, January 28 at 6 p.m. Guys Read Activity Club — Take the pledge and find out – this isn’t your little sister’s book club! Guys Read is a national program started by Jon Sciezska especially for GUYS. Every month, we’ll read a story that will peak your interest and do activities based on the stories. We meet on the Last Monday of the month. For guys ages 10-13 and their older guy mentors.
• Tuesday, January 29 at 10:30 a.m. – Movement & Me — Come in and enjoy time with your preschooler during this class combining movement with adventure and stories. Exercise is a key to living a healthy lifestyle. In this class parents and caregivers are able to move with their children while having a great time. (Ages 3-5). Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Tuesday, January 29 at 6:30 p.m. – P.J. Story Time — Wear your pajamas & come join us for stories, crafts & games. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Tuesday, January 29 at 7 p.m. – Wrap Yourself Up in a Scarf — Come to the library and make your own cozy winter scarf. Please bring in your old T-Shirts.
• Wednesday, January 30 at 10:30 a.m. — Art Club (Ages 2 – 5) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, January 30 at 1 p.m. – Opera in the Afternoon ‘Cilea’ by Adriana Lecouvreur — Adriana Lecouvreur and Jonas Kaufmann as her lover Maurizio, Count of Saxony, Cilea s verismo drama explores celebrity, romance, jealousy, and death. The trio of sublime voices is completed by Russian mezzo-soprano Olga Borodina as Adriana’s jealous rival, the Princess de Bouillon. The action revolves around a life-size Baroque Theatre, taking us from the bustle and color of the first act backstage at the playhouse, to the bare final scenes as the drama reaches its fatal climax.
• Wednesday, January 30 at 5 p.m. – Art Club (Grades K – 3) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, January 30 at 6 p.m. – Art Club (Grades 4 – 6) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, January 30 at 7 p.m. – Reader’s Theater — Do you love dancing, acting, and singing? Would you like to put on a show for your friends and family to see? Join us every Wednesday for Reader’s Theater, where we will bring out the artist in you! (Ages 5 & Up). Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Thursday, January 31 at 10:30 a.m. – Mother Goose Time — During this 30-minute session, babies and their parents will share nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, music and age-appropriate books. For babies ages 2 and under accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Thursday, January 31 at 5 p.m. – LEGO Club — Play and learn with LEGOs at the Park Forest Public Library! The creations the children make will be on display at the library. For boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th Grade. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31. The library is looking for donations of new or used LEGOs. Please contact the library if you would like to help with this project.
• Friday, February 1 at 3 p.m. – Wii Games — Meet up with your friends at the Park Forest Public Library for some gaming fun. The library will provide some games — YOU bring a friend. If you have a favorite game, bring it along to teach and share. Join us after school as we take a little time to have some fun! Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 3
• Saturday, February 2 at 11 a.m. – Art Club (Grades K – 3) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Saturday, February 2 at 12 p.m. – Art Club (Grades 4 – 6) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Saturday, February 2 at 1 p.m. – ‘Black Achievement in American History’ — The "Black Achievement in American History" series displays a new approach to presenting black history and historical figures in an exciting way. The series begins with importation of slaves to the colonies at the beginning of the 17th century and follows African American achievements to the beginning of the 21st century. Discussion will follow each film.

For additional information, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org/

Sharing the Warmth – Through February 10

For each new warm item you bring in to the Library to donate, (anything like hats, mittens, slippers, socks, ear muffs, etc.) we will clear $2.00 in Park Forest Library fines. Help us share the warmth this winter, all items will be donated to those in need.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Classical III’ – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, February 16 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 17 at 3 p.m., the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will present ‘Classical III’ at the Ozinga Chapel of Trinity Christian College, 6601 W. College Drive, Palos Heights. David Danzmayr, Music Director, will conduct the orchestra’s performance of ‘Divertimento for Small Orchestra’ byLee Actor; ‘Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35’ by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky featuring Ilya Kaler, Violin; and ‘Symphony No. 92 (Oxford)’ byJoseph Haydn. Tickets are priced at $55, $45 and $35 and can be purchased online at http://www.ipomusic.org.

Freedom Hall’s Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

METRO JAZZ VOICES: Four-part Harmony, Love Songs for Valentines – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for the next Senior Series Event, of METRO JAZZ VOICES who will deliver a program of classic standards and love songs from the Great American Songbook to bet you in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. The concert will be held on Tuesday, February 5 at 11 a.m. There will be scat singing, instrumental solos and humor, along with a heavy dose of tight, scintillating harmonies, in the style of ‘Manhattan transfer’ and the ‘Hi-Los.’ Tickets are $10 and can be purchase in-person at the box office, or online at www.freedomhall.org. For additional information, call 708-747-0580.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks

February Senior Trip – Macy’s on State Street – Register by Monday, January 28

Come join us on Friday, February 15 for a day at Macy’s on State Street. The bus will depart at 9:30 a.m. from Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive and head to Macy’s where we will begin with the history and architecture tour of the historic State Street store. Highlights include the breathtaking Tiffany vaulted ceiling, the iconic Great Clocks, the graceful Burnham fountain and the world-renowned Walnut Room restaurant. Following this we will enjoy a delectable lunch at the Walnut Room where you can chose between their famous chicken pot pie of the butternut squash tortellacci (please provide menu choice when you register). After, we will enjoy the Window Magic Tour where we will learn how a special team works to create displays ranging from romantic Valentine themed windows to Macy’s famous holiday displays. We will have 90 minutes of shopping time at the end of the day. The bus will return to Village Hall at approximately 5:30 p.m. The trip fee is $69 per person which includes round-trip bus transportation and lunch. Register at the Recreation & Parks Department at Village Hall or by phone with a credit card at 708-748-2005. Mention code 148700-1 when registering. We will need the name, address, home phone number, emergency number and meal choice for each person registering for the trip.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

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 www.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 www.parkforesthistory.org.

Step Back into the 1950s Valentine’s Day Exhibit at the Park Forest House Museum

Throughout February , the 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard, will be decorated with vintage valentines and decorations. The on-room classroom featured in the Museum will be decorated for a 1950s Valentine’s Day party with crepe paper candy baskets, and construction paper heart-shaped valentine ’mailboxes’ on each desk. Red honeycomb, puffy hearts and vintage valentines are on display throughout the house. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of 21st century and revisit your past in this gem of a museum, just down the street. The museum is open Wednesdays and Saturdays in December from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., or by appointment. The admission is $5 for adults; 12 and under are free. The museum tour is free with the purchase of a Marshall Field’s Brick. Park Forest related gift ideas are available at the museum and in the online store at www.parkforesthistory.org. Convenient street parking is available in front of the museum. For additional information, call 708-481-4252.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

Barbara Leahy-Edwards Exhibit – Through January 31

Salon Artists Gallery is currently exhibiting the paintings of Barbara Leahy-Edwards through January 31. Barbara’s artwork is a celebration of an individual’s unique ability to achieve. The cylinder shapes and/or circles of color represent the hope, passion, drive, emotion and will that can be found in every person. At the same time the shapes symbolize the formation of a person’s inner spirit. Gallery hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-833-5108.

‘Hearts and Flowers’ the Work of Ann Bonzani – Opens Friday, February 1

The February exhibit at Salon Artists Gallery will be ‘Hearts and Flowers’ featuring the work of Ann Bonzani. The exhibit will open on Friday, February 1 with a reception from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit will run through February 28. Both the reception and exhibit are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-833-5108 or 708-703-7806.

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

Rich Township Seniors February Luncheon and Trip – Tickets Now on Sale

On Wednesday, February 13 at 10 a.m., we will depart from the parking lot at the Senior Center and head to Chicago to enjoy a family style lunch at Orso’s Restaurant. After lunch, we will go to the Royal George Theatre for their performance of ‘Bible Bing, an Act of Charity in Two Acts.’ This show is an interactive comedy featuring bible trivia, fun bingo cards, quizzes and wacky prizes. We will return to Park Forest at approximately 5:30 p.m. The cost of the trip is $70 which includes round-trip transportation, lunch and theatre ticket. Please call 708-748-5454 to make your reservation. Payment should be made within 3 days of making your reservation.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Luise Renner Retrospective’ – Through March 31

The exhibit, ‘Luise Renner Retrospective,’ will run at Tall Grass Arts Association through March 31.    The exhibit was curated by Richard Schmidt with assistance from Richard Renner.  It will feature the two and three-dimensional works of artist/illustrator Luise Renner who frequently exhibited in galleries in the Chicago area and southern suburbs.  Luise died in December of 2009 at the young age of 63. She left behind a large body of work.   This is the first time some of her works have been exhibited.  The exhibit is dedicated to her memory and presented in homage to her.   The exhibit features original paintings and custom tablecloths created by Luise. Unmounted high-quality prints (giclees) will be available for purchase. The collection displays approximately 60 works. The Tall Grass Gallery is located in Downtown Park Forest, adjacent to Village Hall.  Gallery hours are 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.  The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge.  For additional information, call the gallery at 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

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

Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse Presents Dave Rudolph – Saturday, February 2

For those of you who were disappointed that Dave Rudolph had to cancel his January performance, Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse is pleased to announce that Dave will perform on Saturday, February 2 at 8 p.m. The Coffeehouse is located at UUCC. An exceptional guitar player and singer, Dave’s original songs have been critically acclaimed, nationally played, recorded, and performed throughout the country. He has shared the stage with such diverse artists as Steve Goodman, Cheech and Chong, the Smothers Brothers, the Gatlin Brothers, the Beach Boys and many others. His show features a huge catalogue of original material, both serious and funny, or if you ask real nice, he’ll play some of your favorites. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. For additional information, call 708-781-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Assassins – Friday, February 1 & Saturday, February 2

On Friday, February 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, February 2 at 8 p.m., the Southland Area Theatre Ensemble (SLATE) will present Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Assassins.’ ‘Assassins’ is a bold original, thought-provoking, and alarmingly funny production about nine people who assassinated or tried to assassinate the United States President. The winner of five Tony awards, ‘Assassins’ will leave you speechless, entertained, and asking yourself what it means to be an American. Tickets are $27. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

A Night at the Operetta – Sunday, February 3

On Sunday, February 3 at 4 p.m., the Chicago Folks Operetta will present an afternoon of beautiful music. Host and performer Gerald Frantzen, along with an ensemble of talented singers will take you a tour of the most beloved and some lesser known, Viennese and American operettas from the 20th century. Tickets are $35. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

‘DRUMLine Live’ – Tickets Now on Sale

On Friday, February 15 at 7 p.m., the Center for Performing Arts will present ‘DRUMLine Live,’ an international tour based on the bold beats and ear-grabbing energy of the Historically Black College and University marching band tradition. With choreographed routines and heavy doses of drum riffs, the show incorporates original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of top 40 hits. Tickets are priced at $15 – $58. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

‘The Flowering Tree’ – Tickets Now on Sale

‘The Flowering Tree’ will be presented by the Natya Dance Theatre on Saturday, February 16 at 8 p.m.  The Natya Dance Theatre is one of the most critically acclaimed and culturally treasured Indian dance companies in the United States. This is an international, multicultural production, exploring timely, cross-cultural concerns about humanity’s relationship to the natural world. Tickets are $30. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

The Drama Group, 330 W. 202nd Street, Chicago Heights, IL

‘Superior Donuts’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for ‘Superior Donuts,’ a comedy-drama about facing your demons and the redemptive power of friendship. Performances will be held on February 15 – 24. When a loner hippie and Chicago donut shop owner meets a young charismatic black teenager full of dreams and bright ideas, the writing is on the wall that things are going to change – watch this combust into a reawakening, salvation, and a love of life found. Performances on Fridays and Saturdays are at 7:30 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $19 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $15 for students with I.D. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-755-3444 or visit www.dramagroup.org.

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

‘Evocative’ Art Exhibit at Christopher Art Gallery – Through January 30

The PSC Foundation is presenting the art exhibit ‘Evocative’ through January 30th in the Christopher Art Gallery on the Chicago Heights campus. This exhibition of sculpture, ceramics, paintings, photographs, prints, and mixed media works was chosen by juror Paul Klein of Klein Artist Works. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or gallery hours, call 708-709-3636.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

‘Upgrade & Breakdown’ – Through February 16

‘Upgrade & Breakdown’ featuring the works of Josh Bindewald and Christopher Cannon will run through February 16. The exhibit features printmaking and mixed media art that addresses humankind’s propensity to upgrade and break down the world around us. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For gallery hours and additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

‘Urban Myths’ – Through February 16

‘Urban Myths’ featuring art by the internationally recognized printmaker Michael Goro will run through February 16. Goro’s solo exhibit will present twenty-five of his intensely detailed, large-scale intaglio prints, as well as several images from preparatory stages of his printmaking process. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For gallery hours and additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

National Veterans Art Museum, 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

IN WAR Series – Through Memorial Day 2013

In light of the ongoing war in Afghanistan and the rising need for mental health care for returning veterans, the National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM) is proud to hold its third annual IN WAR series in its new location at 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago. The third annual INWAR series examines intergenerational trauma: the passing of mass traumas from one generation to the next. Trauma takes a profound psychological and physical toll on survivors that has ramifications for decades. For additional information about the exhibit or museum hours, visit: www.nvam.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

GSU to Host Forum for Second Congressional District Candidates – Thursday, February 7

GSU will host a forum for candidates seeking the vacant Congressional seat in Illinois’ Second District. The forum, in GSU’s Center for Performing Arts, takes place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 7. During the forum, candidates will be asked how they can best serve the residents of the Second District, which includes sections of Chicago’s south side and parts of southern Cook County, areas in Will County and all of Kankakee County. Mike Flannery, Political Editor for WFLD Fox 32, will moderate the forum which is free and open to the public. In presenting the forum, GSU is partnering with the League of Women Voters chapters in Homewood-Flossmoor, Dolton-Harvey-Riverdale, and the Park Forest area. Seventeen Democrats and five Republicans have filed to run for the Second District seat. The primary election takes place February 26 with a special election for the seat to follow on April 9.

Open House for New Mindfulness and Psychotherapy Certificate Program –Registration Required

GSU’s College of Education and College of Health and Human Services have joined forces to present an exciting new program – the first of its kind in the Midwest. An Open House for the new Mindfulness and Psychotherapy Certificate Program will be held on Friday, February 1 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the E-Lounge at GSU. An overview of this two-year, 18 credit hour program, which will begin in the Summer of 2013, will be presented at the Open House. Participants will have the chance to meet faculty and other prospective applicants. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Individuals eligible to enroll in this program include: post-master’s level practitioners with a degree in mental health or allied health professions who have access to clinical populations and; current master’s level GSU students enrolled in clinically-oriented programs who are in their final year of advanced clinical practicum. To register for the Open House or for additional information, call Dr. Maristela Zell at 708-235-2235 or e-mail [email protected].

Veterans Writing Groups at GSU

GSU is inviting veterans to join a new Veterans Writing Group, where they will discover the craft of narrative writing in a small, supportive group environment. Groups will meet for six-week workshops beginning in January to learn new skills and share camaraderie with other vets. There is no charge for participation in the Veterans Writing Group. To register, contact Robin Thompson at 708-534-4581 or e-mail [email protected].

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.

Healthy Living

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: http://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 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.

Green Events

Park Forest Environment Commission

2013 Park Forest Community Garden Project Meeting – Saturday, February 16

The Park Forest Environment Commission invites you to attend a meeting on the 2013 Community Garden Project on Saturday, February 16 at 10:30 a.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. As was the case in 2012, Park Forest will offer gardening groups the opportunity to use Village-owned lots for purposes of gardening. Gardeners from the 2012 season will discuss lessons learned from their experience. We will also discuss the new composting project and fund raising activities to help generate additional revenue for the project and a proposal to utilize the land from the site of the old Wildwood School for a large community garden in 2014. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, please call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

‘Everglades of the North: The Story of the Grand Kankakee Marsh’ – Wednesday, February 6

On Wednesday, February 6 at 7 p.m., TCAS will present ‘Everglades of the North: The Story of the Grand Kankakee Marsh.’ This documentary will be introduced by Marianne Hahn, President of the Friends of the Kankakee. The program will take place at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

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.

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

‘Plugged In’ Dedication Ceremony – Registration Required

A Dedication Ceremony to showcase the new electric vehicle charging stations at PSC will be held on Thursday, February 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Christopher Art Gallery located on PSC’s main campus.  This is a special event to highlight this initiative as well as others taking place on campus as part of PSC’s strategic sustainability plan. Attendees will watch an electric vehicle charging demonstration and be able to view the Chevy Volt. Representatives from Phillips Chevrolet will provide information on current year incentives and rebates. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP by January 30 to Allesandra Cairo, Sustainability Coordinator at [email protected].

Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted Street, Chicago

‘Peace in Permaculture’ a Talk by Warren Brush – Limited Seating – Registration Required

On Sunday, February 10 beginning at 5:30 p.m., join international permaculture teacher, mentor, and storyteller Warren Brush, for an inspiring evening of stories and images that will take you on a journey into his extensive peach-nurturing work through the worldwide permaculture movement that brings sustainable and equitable living to people and communities in America, Africa, Australia, the Middle East and Europe. The event will take place at the Hull House Museum. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Since space is limited, seating at the door is subject to availability. For additional information or to register in advance via PAYPAL, visit: http://amma.org/groups/north-america/ma-center-chicago/events/peace-permaculture-talk-warren-brush.

Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

‘Everglades of the North: The Story of the Grand Kankakee Marsh’ – Screening February 26

The documentary film ‘Everglades of the North’ will be screening on Tuesday, February 25 at 6 p.m. at the Field Museum of Natural History. The Grand Kankakee Marsh or ‘everglades of the North’ was one of the largest wetlands in North America. With interlocking wetlands, prairies, savannas and woodlands it was home to some of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the planet. Following the screening, Doug Stotz of the Field Museum will moderate a discussion by a panel of experts on the Kankakee Region, including:

• John Rogner, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service,
• Jim Sweeney, Friends of the Kankakee,
• Marianne Hahn, Friends of the Kankakee, and
• Jeff Manes, Producer/Writer.

The event is free and open to the public. Please enter the Museum at the West door. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Paid parking is available at Soldier Field for approximately $19. Public transit is recommended. For additional information, e-mail [email protected].

This & That

Park Forest Baseball

Registration for 2013 Season – Now on Progress

Registration for the 2013 season of Park Forest Baseball is now in progress. This program is open to both boys and girls from age 4 through 14. The registration will be at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive on the following Saturdays:

• Saturday, February 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Saturday, February 23 from noon to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, March 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Complete details about registration can be found at www.ParkForestBaseball.org or call Alan or Mary Kay Joens at 708-503-1944.

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.

Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights

Friday Fish Fry – Friday, February 1

Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, February 1 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.

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.

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

Secretary of State Services at GSU – Tuesday, January 22

The Secretary of State’s mobile Service Unit will be at GSU on Tuesday, January 22 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Hall of Governors. Services available at include driver’s license and State ID renewal, replacement and corrections; vehicle sticker sales; passenger and b-truck license plates; vehicle title and registration; parking placards for persons with disabilities; and organ/tissue donor information, In addition, vision tests and written driver’s license exam can be taken. No driving tests will be given. The services provided are available to all qualified Illinois residents. State law allows driver’s license renewal up to one year in advance. Proper identification is required for new and duplicate driver’s licenses and state ID cards. Acceptable forms of payment include personal checks, cash, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit and debit cards. For additional information, visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com.

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

Get Your Taxes Done for Free at PSC

PSC in conjunction with the Center for Economic Progress (CEP) is offering opportunities for individuals and families meeting certain criteria to get their taxes done for free. The tax assistance will be available beginning January 26 through April 13. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free assistance is available to individuals with incomes less than $25,000; for families with income level less than $50,000. The service is offered on a first come, first serve basis. To ensure the process goes smoothly, bring the following information: all W-2s and 1099s (if any), social security cards of Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for all family members; valid photo ID; copy of last year’s tax return (if available); bank account number and routing number for direct deposit of your refund; property tax bill; and the amount spent on college expenses. Other options offered during the tax preparation session include free help filing an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) claim, open a bank or savings account to deposit your refund, or obtain a prepaid debit card for your refund. If you have any questions, call 888-827-8511.

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 Winter-Spring 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.