Local

In and Around Park Forest for the Week of October 8, 2017


park forest fire department, fire truck, gear
A truck and gear of the Park Forest Fire Department. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF) — The Park Forest Fire Department will hold several events this week in recognition of Fire Prevention Week. The 37th Annual Memorial Service and Twilight Parade will take place on Thursday, October 12 with a Service at 6:30 p.m. at St. Irenaeus Church, 78 Cherry Street followed by a Parade at 7 p.m. An Open House at the Fire Department will take place on Saturday, October 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend these events and thank our Fire Department for a job well done.

The Park Forest Library is currently resurfacing and restriping the parking lot. There will be easy access curbs installed. Two-way traffic will be allowed along with a drive up book drop. The plan is to complete the project by November 10. The Library staff are working hard with the construction team to make sure that there is minimal disruption to Library services. The parking lots will be completely closed during the renovation. Library patrons can park in the lots at the Aqua Center or Freedom Hall. There is a book drop located in front of Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The Library staff apologizes in advance for any inconvenience this will cause for Library patrons. Please be patient during the constructions.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in the community that you would like published, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details no later than 5 p.m. on Friday.  Thank you.

Village of Park Forest

Village Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commissions are scheduled to meet the week of October 8:

  • Tuesday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group

The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

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

‘Starting Over’ – Tickets Now on Sale

On October 21 at 8 p.m., MPAACT Theatre of Chicago presents ‘Starting Over,’ a story of love, tolerance, and identity. Shown as part of LGBT History Month, this production follows a young biracial couple from an intolerant small town to a major city years later. Their difficult past must be reconciled with an even more difficult present: one of them is transgender. Can love roll with the changes? Playwright Shepsu Aakhu says, “Love is complicated…not by how we look, not by who we love not by how we feel. Finding someone to love who loves us in return; someone willing to give, and forgive, to be strong for and be vulnerable with. A love story is such a simple story…and so damn complicated.” Hear more from the cast and playwright Shepsu Aakhu at a post-show discussion following the performance.

Tickets and Additional Information

Tickets: $28, Seniors 65+ $25, and Students $10

PLEASE NOTE: There is adult content and nudity in this production.

Online: www.CenterTickets.net

By Phone: 708-235-2222

In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL

Box Office Hours: Monday – Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open to 6p.m. on Thursdays) and two hours prior to all performances

Parking is free. For best GPS directions always use the location search term “Governors State University” only.

This performance is part of the Center’s “Made in Chicago” Series, which brings Chicago-based theatre, dance, and musical ensemble companies to the Southland. The production is made possible by support from The Chicago Community Trust, The National Endowment for the Arts, and The Illinois Arts Council. Made in Chicago Series was designed to support Chicago artists and increase theater participation by first-time attendees, many who live in communities with little or no access to the arts.

Crete Public Library District, 1177 North Main Street

The following events are scheduled at the Crete Public Library District the week of October 8:

  • Monday, October 9 at 10 a.m. – Music & Movement – Drop in for dancing, singing, and rhythm.  For ages 0-5.
  • Monday, October 9 at 7 p.m. – Book Club – Discussion of Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel. For adults.
  • Monday, October 9 at 7 p.m. – Meet Marie Antoinette – Marie Mathisen comes in costume as the Queen of France. For adults. Register.
  • Monday, October 9 at 7 p.m. – Knot Just for Knitters – Share camaraderie while working on knitting, crocheting or any other type of needlework project. For adults.
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 11 a.m. – Storytime at Aurelio’s – Drop-in. For ages birth-5.
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 2 p.m. – Windows 10 Basics – Topics for this demonstration class include using the new Start Menu, Desktop, and Task Bar and navigating the new Settings. For adults. Register.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 2 p.m. – Getting to Know Lynda.com – Find out how to get started with this instructional video resource in this demonstration class. For adults. Register.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 6 p.m. – STEAM Kids – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math program. For ages 6-8. Register.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 7 p.m. – Knot Another Ball of Yarn! Crochet Group – For teens and adults.
  • Friday, October 13 at 10 a.m. – Babies & Books – Storytime for ages birth-24 months. Register.
  • Friday, October 13 from 1-3 p.m. – Walgreen’s Flu Shot Clinic – Drop-in, no appointment needed. Charges may apply, bring your insurance card.
  • Friday, October 13 at 3 p.m. – Anime Club – Anime screenings, trivia contests, and manga-inspired games. For ages 12+. Drop-in.
  • Saturday, October 14 at 1 p.m. – Family Matinee – Showing Goosebumps. Drop-in.

For more information, please call the Crete Public Library at 708-672-8017 or visit www.cretelibrary.org.

DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago

Senga Nengudi: Improvisational Gestures’ – Through December 10

In the 1970s, artist Senga Nengudi would carry pantyhose and other supplies for her “R.S.V.P.” series of sculptures around in her bag. Born in Chicago and a pioneer of performative art, Nengudi would stage choreographic actions within the works of nylon and sand. DePaul Art Museum will host a touring exhibition of Nengudi’s work, including documentation of her earliest performances. “Senga Nengudi: Improvisational Gestures” will be held on DePaul University’s Lincoln Park Campus through December 10 and is co-organized by Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and the Gallery of Contemporary Art at University  of  Colorado, Colorado Springs. The exhibition is co-curated by Windgate Research Curator Elissa Auther of the Museum of Design, and Nora Burnett Abrams of MCA Denver. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 5 pm. Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The museum is closed Monday and Tuesday. Admission is free. Additional information at http://museums.depaul.edu​ or 773-325-7506.

DePaul University Humanities Center, 2250 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago

What’s Real in Conversation with Rick Jay—Wednesday, October 11

Determining fact from fiction has placed the word “fake” in an even more unflattering spotlight, making it a timely topic for the DePaul University Humanities Center 2017-18 season. All programs are free and open to the public. They are held in the Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave., Room 120 on DePaul’s Lincoln Park Campus.

Fake 1 & In Conversation with Great Minds: Ricky Jay — Oct. 11
6-7:30 p.m. Screening of “Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay”
7:30-9 p.m. Conversation with Ricky Jay
Magic and conversation kick off the Humanities Center’s fall season with a screening of a documentary on Ricky Jay, an author, actor, historian and renowned sleight-of-hand artist. His resume includes film roles in “Boogie Nights” and “Tomorrow Never Dies,” television appearances on “Deadwood” and “The X-Files” and the ability to throw a playing card at 90 mph.

The Horror of the Humanities V — Oct. 30
6-6:30 p.m. “Haunted House” interactive Halloween exhibit
6:30-7:45 p.m. Screening of “The Eyes of My Mother”
7:45-9 p.m. Conversation with director Nicolas Pesce
The Humanities Center’s fifth annual Halloween event marks the return of its version of a haunted house where the “terrors” may be interactive displays and exhibitions on such topics as genetically modified food or student debt. The evening culminates with a screening of the 2016 black and white horror film “The Eyes of My Mother” and a discussion with director Nicolas Pesce.

The 100th Anniversary of the Russian Revolution — Nov. 8 — 7-9:15 p.m.
A century has passed since Bolshevik workers and soldiers rose up against Russia’s provisional government, and there are still lessons that can be learned from the revolution. The Humanities Center examines the event with live performances and the trial of a fictional character. Guest speakers include:
Helena Goscilo, an Ohio State professor with an expertise in Russian culture, will speak on the pivotal role women played in the Bolshevik revolution;
Zachary Cahill, a Chicago-based multi-media artist, will present his “The Parapsychology Initiative” project;
William Nickell, an associate professor and chair of the Slavic Department at the University of Chicago, will discuss the challenges of cultural transformation; and
The Bach & Beethoven Ensemble will provide live musical performances of pre- and post-revolutionary music.

There’s an interactive component, as well, with the audience seated in a manner that resembles a Neo-futurist Russian painting.

More events are scheduled for winter and spring, including a Jan. 29 discussion with actor Michael Shannon and sessions addressing fake art, fake personas and fake illnesses. Learn more about the center and upcoming events at http://bit.ly/DPUHmCtr.

Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Mucca Pazza – Tickets Now on Sale

Mucca Pazza will perform at Freedom Hall, on Friday, October 20 at 7:30 p.m. Mucca Pazza assembled itself in a steel mill parking lot along the Chicago River. Combining marching band traditions and street theater spectacle with rock and roll sensibilities and a high level of musicianship, they quickly found a home for its 25-odd members in the thriving Chicago underground music scene. Despite the drums and brass, cheerleaders and uniforms, Mucca Pazza seldom marches, musically or physically. The uniforms do not match. The cheers are strange. There are no recognizable patterns, no discernible formations, no militant airs. However, the force and presence of a marching band remain, both sonically and theatrically. The brass harmony, rich and powerful, the drums, tight and idiosyncratic, combine as a sum greater than its parts. The band might even move from point A to point B. But this is where similarities end. Mucca Pazza dances, flails, tumbles, and spins in circles. Amplified by speaker helmets, the freak section wields violins and cellos, accordions and guitars – instruments that have no business whatsoever being in a marching band. The cheerleaders rouse, encourage and confound the audience with asynchronous absurdity. The music moves from Balkan to brass band groove to noise-rock to avant-garde game show themes without missing a step. Performances can induce geeky freak-outs and nerdy rapture, from either audience or band members, often both. The American tradition of the marching band – whether as presidential entourage, half-time show, or second line party favor – receives both fresh love and artful abuse from Mucca Pazza. An unparalleled eccentric, frenetic visual presence and genre-bending original compositions earned Mucca Pazza critical praise and a loyal local following. Major festivals include: Lollapalooza, Lincoln Center’s Out of Doors, Montreal Jazz Fest, they’ve also appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Kentucky Derby and been busy collaborators, working with a range of artists including the Chicago Sinfonietta and Andrew Bird. Tickets are $35 or $31 for season subscribers. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org

Larry Gatlin – Tickets Now on Sale

Larry Gatlin will kick-off the season’s Matinee Series on Tuesday, October 17 at 11 a.m. with a performance by Larry Gatlin. From Las Vegas to the famed Grand Ole Opry stage, the performing and songwriting talents of Larry Gatlin are known to both audiences and his peers throughout the music industry. His career spans 61 years, including touring from 1976 to 1992 with his brothers Steve and Rudy and also often paired with country music queen Dottie West. With hit after hit, such as “All the Gold in California,” and banking some of the most prestigious awards in the music industry, it was Larry who penned every Gatlin Brothers hit you’ve ever heard. He has also written songs later recorded by Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Charlie Rich, Johnny Mathis, and even starred in the lead role on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning musical “The Will Rogers Follies.” He still tours with his brothers, and in 2015, the trio released “The Gospel According to Gatlin” as a tribute to their 60 years of sibling success. The Freedom Hall audience will enjoy Larry’s solo artist talent and career stories in the center stage spotlight for a special acoustic concert not to be missed. View videos of Larry Gatlin. Tickets are $30. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists walk, Park Forest

40th Anniversary Season Prelude Dinner – Saturday, October 14

The IPO will celebrate the start of its 40th Anniversary season by welcoming the new Music Director, Stilian Kirov, with the 2017 – 2018 Prelude Dinner on Saturday, October 14 at 4:45 p.m. at Zachary’s Grill, 13415 Ridgeland Avenue in Palos Heights. Tickets are $83 and can be purchased here. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org

From Generation to Generation – Saturday, October 14

IPO’s 40th Season will open with ‘From Generation to Generation’ on Saturday, October 14 at 7:30 at the Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 West College Drive in Palos Heights. IPO’s 40th Anniversary Season applauds the brilliance of composer/conductor Leonard Bernstein on the 100th anniversary of his birth while celebrating 40 years of making beautiful music in the Southland. The spectacular Opening Night embraces the clever charm of Respighi in incorporating other composers’ work to create a musical painting of bird songs; reflects the connective power of music as the 3-generation Hersh Trio joins IPO for their premiere of Beethoven’s Triple Concerto (for which Bernstein always played the piano part when it was performed); honors the historic and religious roots of our new venue, Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, as IPO performs Mendelssohn’s majestic Reformation” Symphony in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. From generation to generation, music has the power to enrich our lives. Come and celebrate with the IPO. Tickets are $10 to $57 and can be purchased here. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.

Park Forest Historical Society

Park Forest House Museum Lets You ‘Step Back into the 1950s’

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, at 227 Monee Road (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church), Park Forest, Illinois, invites you to “Step Back into a 1950s.” The Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday, 1 to 3:30 p.m.; other times by appointment. One room represents a classroom in Forest Boulevard School, which was set up in a row of townhomes. Admission is Adults $5; children 12 and under free.  Park in the small lot by the flagpole and knock on the classroom door next to the museum sign. A guide will tell village history, and social and fashion trends of the era. Special tours can be arranged by calling Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252, or Michael Gans, 708-305-3308.  Information on the society and museum, and email contact is at www.parkforesthistory.org.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of October 8:

  • Monday, October 9 at 11 a.m. – Sunrise Story Time — Join us for a delightful morning of stories! Weather Permitted, Join us out doors for Story Time in our Beautiful Butterfly Garden.
  • Monday, October 9 at 3:30 p.m. – Drop In Make and Take — Drop in to kids’ zone and see what we’re creating today!
  • Monday, October 9 at 3:30 p.m. — kids’ zone Science Club: Engineering Design Cycle — Join us for another session of Science Club Minors. Topic: Work in Progress: Engineering Design Cycle. Sign up and discover something new. Registration Required.
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 11 a.m. — Electronic Resource Workshop: A Guide to Media on Demand – A beginner’s guide to checking out ebooks, audiobooks, and videos on your computers, phones, and tablets/Ipads through Media on Demand. Bring your own devices. Registration Required.
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 11 a.m. — Special Poetry Story Time! — Join us for as special story time and craft. For ages 12 and under.
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 3:30 p.m. – Art Studio — Drop in and discover your inner artist with one of our guided projects.
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 4 p.m. — Color-Rama! Coloring Circle — Take a load off before starting your homework! Learn different media of art and show your creativity with other teens!
  • Tuesday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. – Night Time Storytime — Back by popular demand with a Brand New name! Jam out in your PJ’s with stories, crafts, music and more! For ages 12 and under.
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 4 p.m. – Color Me Happy Adult Coloring — Our grown-up coloring circle is the perfect way to step back from the stress of everyday life and enjoy some relaxation! All supplies will be provided.
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 6:30 p.m. — Live Arts: Basket Weaving with Master Weaver, Jane Dwyer — Watch the ancient tradition of basket weaving take shape before your eyes in this live demonstration from local master weaver, Jane Dwyer
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 6:30 p.m. — Movie Night for Adults: ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’ — Captain Jack Sparrow searches for the trident of Poseidon while being pursued by an undead sea captain and his crew.
  • Wednesday, October 11 at 6:30 p.m. – Writer’s Workshop — Want to improve your skills as a writer? Interested in sharing your ideas or written work with others? Come to the Park Forest Library and join other creators in our bi-monthly writers’ group, led by James Pressler, for all your writing wishes. Writers of all skill levels are welcomed.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art — It’s All about Pete the Cat. Let’s get crafty with our favorite Cat!
  • Thursday, October 12 at 3:30 p.m. – Drawing Theory — Do you enjoy Drawing and Sketching? Learn how to draw your favorite animations and more. For ages 12 and under.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 11 a.m. — Electronic Resource Workshop: A Guide to Media on Demand – A beginner’s guide to checking out ebooks, audiobooks, and videos on your computers, phones, and tablets/Ipads through Media on Demand. Bring your own devices. Registration Required.
  • Thursday, October 12 at 6:30 p.m. — The Vietnam War By Ken Burns and Lynn Novick — Join us as we watch this PBS Documentary.
  • Friday, October 13 at 11 a.m. – Falling into Autumn Leaves Part 1 — Join a family-friendly, guided walk to collect colorful fall leaves and press them for your very own leaf identification book. Books will be assembled in part 3 of the program. Registration Required
  • Friday, October 13 at 3:30 p.m. – Fun Friday Game Day — It’s Game Day! Find out how much fun board games can be. For ages 12 and under.
  • Friday, October 13 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Game Day — Show off your competitive side with your friends! From board games to video games, there will be plenty of fun!
  • Saturday, October 14 at 1 p.m. – Live Story Telling with Oba William King — Join us for one of the most EXCITING story tellers, Oba William King! Watch Oba as he masterfully combines professional theatrical training with a distinct poetic style. He’s an entertaining educator sharing the traditional art form as if it were a sacred gift. You don’t want to miss this show!
  • Saturday, October 14 at 2 p.m. — Mindfulness and Meditation Techniques 101 — Learn how to practice mindfulness techniques and meditation in your everyday life. This workshop is designed for four weeks of participation. Patrons must commit to coming to all four session. Registration is Required. Space is limited.

For additional information, or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street8, Chicago Heights

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Art Exhibition – Through Thursday, October 26

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Christopher Art Gallery at PSC presents La Pasión del Artista, an art exhibition featuring the works of three Hispanic artists. The exhibit will be on display, through October 26, in the gallery, located on the PSC main campus in Chicago Heights. La Pasión del Artista, which means “Passion of the Artist,” is a representation of works by artists Carlos Barberena, Oscar Martinez and Paul Sierra, all of whom use extremely expressive visual means to convey their ideas, whether it be through exaggerated color, strongly textural brush strokes, large scale or attention to detail. Martinez will be on campus to speak in room 4190 at the main campus from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on October, 4, followed by an artists’ reception from 4:30 to 7 p.m., in the gallery.  The Christopher Art Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Visits also can be made by appointment. For more information about the gallery, upcoming exhibits or to make an appointment for a visit, call 708-709-7738 or visit www.prairiestate.edu/artgallery.

Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

27th Annual Fall Luncheon – Sunday, October 15

The Rich Township Pantry will host its 27th Annual Fall Luncheon on Sunday, October 15 at the Holiday Inn-Matteson, 500 Holiday Plaza Drive. This year’s event will feature the Award-Winning Acts Of Kindness Cabaret presenting their brand new show, You Can’t Be Serious!  During these days, when our world seems laden with bad news and bad tempers, it is more important than ever to laugh. You Can’t Be Serious! gives audiences a comic lens through which to look at the situations we all face in life. It’s a fun-filled comedy cabaret featuring three of Chicago’s top cabaret vocalists: Caryn Caffarelli, Cynthia Clarey, and Hilary Ann Feldman. Enjoy songs by Stephen Sondheim, Frank Loesser, Charlie Chaplin, Amanda McBroom, Harold Arlen, Bob Marley, and many others. These songs and stories will make you laugh so hard your sides will hurt. Remember, laughter is the best medicine, and this particular brand of healthcare is absolutely free! Socialize with others at 12:30 p.m. and view the Silent Auction items. Lunch will be served at 1:15 p.m. As usual we will dine on a delicious meal while bidding on fantastic Silent Auction items. We will also have door prizes, raffle prizes and a 50/50 cash split the pot. For those of you who have trouble letting go of the past, there will be a small fashion surprise at the event. Tickets are $45 each (cash or check) and are available at Rich Township, 22013 Governors Hwy in Richton Park.  You can also purchase tickets using Credit Cards on Eventbrite here. For questions or more information, please call Candi Kleindorfer at 708-228-5033.

Lunch at the Senior Center – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

The Rich Township Senior Center will be serving lunch at 12 Noon, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Rich Township School District 227 is preparing delicious meals for a cost of $3.00. You MUST make your reservation two days in advance by stopping in, or calling 708-748-5454. Lunch Menu examples: Chicken, Hamburger, Turkey Sandwich, all served with Soup & Chips.  Also we have Pasta dishes, side salads, desserts. Optional: Chef Salad. All served with Lemonade.

Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery, 18 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Photo Exhibit on Plight of World’s Stateless Children – Through December 2

Few can imagine what it is like to be stateless. Now a new photo exhibit “Nowhere People,” at Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery Chicago, tells the story. With its first showing ever in Chicago, “Nowhere People” by photographer Greg Constantine features 39 black-and-white photographs of children who have no citizenship, and therefore, no place to call their true home. A native of Carmel, Ind., Constantine spent 10 years photographing thousands of stateless people in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Dominican Republic, Ukraine, Serbia, Italy, the Netherlands, Iraq Kuwait and Lebanon. While the United Nations has estimated 10 million people around the world today are stateless, Constantine believes that number is much higher.  In addition, he believes that children of those without citizenship are impacted the most, which makes the Roosevelt exhibit not only unique, but also extremely powerful. The exhibit runs until December 2 and is free and open to the public. Gage Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.  For more information, visit www.roosevelt.edu/gagegallery or call 312-341-6458.

South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland

‘Silent Witnesses’ Art Exhibition – Through October 11

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to present a solo exhibition entitled ‘Silent Witnesses’ by Carmen Chami. The exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery through October 11. On September 21, Ms. Chami will deliver an art historical lecture on traditional pictorial techniques popularized in the XVII century and their relationship to her artistic techniques at 12:15 p.m. in room 4340 with an artist reception to follow at 1 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Carmen Chami (Mexico City, 1974) graduated with a degree in Art Restoration. Her education specialized in the great Masters of the seventeenth century of New Spanish Baroque (Mexican Baroque) style and she was able to discover that it is a very particular way in which that they applied the color on the canvas with a precise order. The great masters she studied only used 8 pigments in most cases and the result was an art wonderfully rich in color and light. She translated all of this knowledge into her own pictorial language, with color being an invaluable resource and a powerful and dramatic expression. Chami’s paintings belong to important institutions such as the Mexican Presidency; Marines Secretary; National University of Mexico; Milenio Group and the National Death Museum. Chami is currently part of the National Creators System supported by the Mexican government, which obtained a grant for three years to develop the theme “Adlateres Migrantes” (Migrant Minions). Additional images and information are available at the artist’s website www.carmenchami.com. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information contact 708-596-2000 ext. 2316. Para Información En Español Llame: 708- 210-5740.

Steve Sherrell Art Exhibition – Opens Monday, October 23

The Art & Design Department of SSC is pleased to present a solo exhibition entitled 25 Years of Computer Art Exploration by Steve Sherrell. The exhibition will be on display in both the Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries October 23 through November 17. On November 1, Mr. Sherrell will deliver a lecture at 12:15 in room 4431 with an artist reception to follow. After studying at the School of the Art Institute with Ray Yoshida, Sherrell began exhibiting on a regular basis at many of the city’s great galleries: locally, nationally and internationally. In the early 1990’s he began doing digital artwork on an Amiga computer and taught Computer Art for 20 years. His experimental nature has led him to explore ways that hand-made techniques could merge with computer generated visuals to create unusual and original hybrids. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. The Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries are located on the college’s fourth floor and are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. They are closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. For more information contact 708-596-2000 ext. 2316.

St. Irenaeus Parish, 207 South Orchard, Park Forest

37th Annual Spaghetti Dinner – Sunday, October 22

St. Irenaeus Parish will host its 37th Annual Spaghetti Dinner (all you can eat) on Sunday, October 22 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the gym. Menu: spaghetti & meat balls, “special” sauce, bread & butter, salad and desserts. There will also be raffle prizes.  Tickets are $10 for Adults and $3 for children 10 and under.  Tickets can be purchased at the door or you can purchase tickets after Mass at the Church Rectory. For additional information, call 708-748-6891.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Mark of the Hand’ – Through Saturday, November 4

Tall Grass Arts Association exhibit ‘Mark of the Hand’ runs through Saturday, November 4.  A reception will be held on Friday, October 5 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. ‘Mark of the Hand’ is a juried exhibition of original artwork at Tall Grass Gallery. From prehistory, humans have told their story by literally leaving marks with their hands. Direct mark making and hand forming are the theme of the art show. ‘Mark of the Hand’ will include two and three-dimensional art which celebrates the legacy of traditional, pre-1800 art tools and processes. The artwork will show evidence of being made directly by the human hand. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information or questions about Tall Grass, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

National Collage Society’s 33rd Annual Juried Exhibition – Through Saturday, October 28

USG is hosting the National Collage Society’s 33rd Annual Juried Exhibition. The exhibit runs through Saturday, October 28. The exhibit is free and open to the public. You can learn more about the about the organization at their website, National Collage Society. Gallery hours are: Thursday and Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

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

Song Sisters – Saturday, October 14

Edgar’s Place Coffee House will host the Song Sisters on Saturday, October 14 at 7:30 p.m. Edgar’s Place is located at the UUCC in Park Forest. Amy Dixon-Kolar, Patti Shaffner, and Sue Fink are singer/songwriter friends who discovered that their own distinctive songs and styles worked very well together, like contrasting spices that somehow blend to make one very tasty stew. They perform in-the-round, adding harmonies to each other’s songs and favorite cover songs. There is a $15 cover charge at the door. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

University of Chicago Oriental Institute, 1155 East 58th Street, Chicago

Book of the Dead: Becoming God in Ancient Egypt – Through March 31, 2018

In ancient Egypt, you did not go to the afterlife empty-handed. The Book of the Dead, a collection of spells and charms, was there to guide you. Now through March 31, 2018, visitors to the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago will have a unique opportunity to peruse copies of the Book of the Dead: Two 2,200-year-old papyri, each more than 30 feet long and beautifully illustrated with texts and images. They are on display in their entirety for the first time at a museum, accompanied by the mummy of a woman who lived over 2,000 years ago, as well as statues, stelae, scarabs, magic bricks, ushabtis (small funerary figurines) and other artifacts. The exhibit presents 76 artifacts that demonstrate how religious beliefs shaped the lives and material culture in Egypt over a period of more than 2,000 years (from 2500 B.C. to 100 A.D). Most are from the permanent collection of the Oriental Institute, whose museum holds the Chicago area’s largest collection of Egyptian art and artifacts, as well as galleries devoted to the other cultures of the ancient Middle East. A central feature of the exhibit is an enclosure featuring the mummy of an ancient Egyptian woman from the city of Akhmim. In the display, she is surrounded by mortuary objects inscribed with Book of the Dead spells—typical for an Egyptian burial chamber, where multiple copies of the same spells could be found. Long strips of linen inscribed with Book of the Dead spells reveal how ancient Egyptian priests wrapped the Book of the Dead around the body to protect it within an amuletic cocoon of powerful religious texts. The two Book of the Dead papyri on display, from two different regions of Egypt, were painstakingly hand-produced by a team of skilled scribes and illustrators. Seeing the papyri laid out end-to-end makes their compilation starkly apparent, the curators said; each Book of the Dead papyrus is not a single book at all, but a collection of shorter spells compiled together in a single manuscript. The Field Museum of Natural History has loaned several rarely displayed objects, including several limestone blocks inscribed with large Book of the Dead spells from the tomb of a man named Bakenrenef, as well as a papyrus inscribed with a composition known as the First Book of Breathing. Over the course of the second and first centuries B.C., the Book of the Dead was largely abandoned in favor of the Books of Breathing; they represent the last documents in a tradition of funerary literature stretching back more than 2,500 years. A companion catalog contains essays by 13 prominent scholars with expertise in religion and the use of funerary literature in ancient Egypt. It includes complete photographic documentation of the two Book of the Dead papyri from the Oriental Institute in color for the first time. “Book of the Dead: Becoming God in Ancient Egypt” runs  through March 31, 2018 at the museum. Admission to the Oriental Institute is free, however, there is a suggested donation: $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children under 12. For groups of 8 or more people visiting the museum, please register by completing and submitting the following form: Tour Reservation Form. Learn more about the Oriental Institute here. https://oi.uchicago.edu/

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

League of Women Voters Park Forest Area

Higher Education Institutions in the Southland: Our Hidden Gems – Tuesday, October 10

One of the significant assets of the south suburbs is the access to high quality, affordable post-secondary education.  Please join the League of Women Voters –Park Forest Area on Tuesday, October 10th at 7 p.m. at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, as we host a panel discussion on higher education institutions in the south suburbs.  Panelists will include:

  • Elaine Maimon, President, Governors State University
  • Marie Hansel, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, Prairie State College
  • Lynette Stokes-Wilson, Vice President for Academic Services, South Suburban College

Our panelists will share information of such topics as new programs and initiatives, student demographics, outreach efforts and the lingering impact of the state budget impasse.  This promises to be an informative program, which provides the opportunity to learn more about these institutions that enhance the quality of life in our community. Please plan to attend.  Bring your neighbors, friends and questions for our distinguished panel. For more information, contact Diane Hodges at 708-720-5954 or email at [email protected] or Anne Marie Leofanti at 708-481-1795 or email at:  [email protected]. For more information visit www.wvpfa.org.

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

Graduate and Undergraduate Program Open House – Registration Required by Monday, October 9

GSU is hosting a graduate and undergraduate combined open house on Saturday, October 14, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Hall of Governors, on the first floor of the main campus. Future Jaguars—freshmen, transfer, and graduate students—and their families can attend sessions on financial aid, admission requirements, housing, and much more. The open house will showcase the many bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degree programs offered at the university and give students a chance to talk with faculty and staff while exploring the possibilities at GSU. Prospective students who attend the open house will receive a waiver code for their application fee. Programs requiring application through Centralized Application Services are excluded. For more information, contact Julie Anderson at 708534-4086 or email [email protected]. To register for the open house, visit www.govst.edu/GSU-openhouse/ by Monday, October 9.

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.

South Suburban College (SSC), 158080 South State Street, South Holland

National Information Literacy Awareness Month – Through October

On October 1, 2009, President Barack Obama issued the first National Proclamation establishing October as “National Information Literacy Awareness Month.” This was the first time this important 21st century skill set received federal attention at the National Level. In today’s digital world, people who are information literate know how to find, access, and evaluate information to improve their health, their environment, their education and workplace performance. Having this skill set empowers them to interpret and make informed decisions about their lives, in essence, taking more responsibility for their own individual welfare and that of our nation. Events are as follows:

  • Tuesday, October 24, at 1 p.m. in the Library “back by popular demand” Genealogy Workshop conducted by two members from the Afro-American Genealogical & Historical Society of Chicago: Ms. Angela McGhee and Mr. Paul Holmes. It will be followed by the announcement of the Essay Contest Winners with prizes awarded. Refreshments will be served.

For more information on the SSC Library visit: http://libguides.ssc.edu/libguideshome or Marilyn Wells, Librarian and Coordinator of Information Literacy Month at [email protected]. Para Información En Español Llame: 708-210-5740. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office 708-210-5718.

Top U.S. Universities

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

Green Events

Sauk-Calumet Group of IL Sierra Club, Matteson

Discussion on Growing Native Trees and Shrubs – Monday, October 9

The Sauk-Calumet Group of the Illinois Sierra Club will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, October 9th, at 7:15 pm at the Frankfort Public Library, 21119 Pfeiffer Rd. The title of the program will be, “Northeast Illinois Indigenous Plants: Putting the Right Plant in the Right Place”. Kelsey Shaw from Possibility Place Nursery will talk about growing native trees and shrubs in your own yard. Sierra Club meetings are free and open to the public. People interested in outdoor activities or improving the environment are encouraged to attend. For additional information about the meeting or the Club’s activities should contact Patrick Coffey at [email protected].

Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Park Forest

Nature Education Programs at Thorn Creek Nature Center

Calling all schools, home school groups, day cares, preschools, youth, adult and family groups! Nature Education Programs are offered at Thorn Creek Nature Center throughout the year where your group can discover the plants and animals of Thorn Creek Woods. These Nature Education Programs are sponsored by the Thorn Creek Audubon Society. The Audubon Society and the Thorn Creek Nature Center announce their new Partnership for Programming to further the Society’s environmental education mission and give valuable assistance to Thorn Creek Nature Center in providing nature programming for groups of area children and adults. Some of the nature education programs offered this year include Birding by Sight and Sound, Creek Walk (the world of aquatic insects and metamorphosis), Trees Big and Small (identification by leaves and bark), Insects (what makes an insect unique), the Web of Life (interdependence of producers, consumers, predators and decomposers), Soils Hike (how soil fuels and supports life), and Night Hikes. On the Fall Color Hike learn why leaves change colors and what trees do to prepare for the long months of winter. Discover clues to wild animals’ identities and behavior by trails and trails in Wild Animal Tracks. Make your own track replica. On Vixen’s Trek you are the fox following your daily routines on Thorn Creek trails. Or visit the Historic Farm in the woods to explore an early 1900’s woodland farm. Groups can also arrange for a naturalist to come to your location for programs such as Wild Animal Tracks, Web of Life, Woodland Wildflowers, Soils, History of Thorn Creek Woods, and the like. The new partnership has already collaborated in sponsoring three programs: the Learn 70 Birds by Spring class, which runs from January through March; the Great Backyard Bird Count Open House that was held in February; and the Build a Gourd Birdhouse sessions to be held in March.  For information about Thorn Creek Audubon Society membership, events and projects: Thorn Creek Audubon Society, P. O. Box 895, Park Forest, Il 60466, or www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Become a ‘Friend of Thorn Creek’

Friends of Thorn Creek Woods is the citizen activist group responsible in very large part for preserving and securing the dedication of the Thorn Creek Woods as an Illinois Nature Preserve.  Friends’ volunteers continue to provide support in so many ways: staff the nature center on weekends; trail work; displays; leading hikes; special events; cleaning; pruning; artwork; music; research; and so on.  Friends is a voice for the Woods and preservation values, donates funds for equipment and sponsors an annual meeting, Garlic Fest and Earth Day.  Members receive a quarterly newsletter.  Annual membership in Friends is $10.  For additional information, call 708-747-6320 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

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 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

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

Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive

Walk About for Healthy Hearts – Every Saturday

Are you trying to be more active?  The Park Forest Health Department is hosting a walk about for healthy hearts every Saturday, at 9 a.m. The walks will begin at the Park Forest Village Green in DownTown Park Forest. All you need are your walking shoes! The walks will last 30 minutes and are more enjoyable if you:

  • Wear comfortable clothes,
  • Bring a friend to pass the time,
  • Make sure to stretch those muscles, and
  • Move your arms and maintain good posture.

Don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated. For additional information or to register for the weekly walks, call 708-748-1118.

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.

Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street, Alsip

Free Community Education and Prevention Programs about Mental Health

Sertoma Centre’s Mental Health Services facility is offering community mental health seminars, free of charge to community groups, schools, law enforcement agencies, religious organizations, and other community groups at their location in Matteson or facility. Education Programs will include: Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) which increases public awareness of suicide and improves one’s ability to identify and refer those at risk for suicide. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education course that helps participants identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. Also included is Mental Health First Aid for Youth and Anxiety/Depression Screenings. Thanks to a grant, these educational opportunities are available at no cost to you or your organization. To arrange a free educational opportunity for your club, group, workplace, organization, or church, call Gia Washington at 708-748-1951, Ext. 418 or email at [email protected].

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

Yoga Classes by Karen Nielsen – Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays

Yoga classes by Karen Nielsen are available at UUCC on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  No reservations needed.  Drop-in fee is $10 per class and the 6th one is free.  For additional information, call 708-755-3577 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Buddhist Meditation – Saturdays

Learn to enjoy the simple and straight-forward practice of meditation.  Please join us for sitting and walking meditation in the Zen and Theravadan Buddhist traditions.  This is an on-going event led by Steve McCabe and Beverly Feldt will be held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at UUCC.  There is no cost but a free will offering is most appreciated (proceeds go to UUCC).  For additional information contact Steve McCabe at 708-465-3116 or Beverly Feldt at [email protected].

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Park Forest Farmers’ Market – Through October 28

The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday thereafter through October 28 from 7 a.m. to noon.  The Market is located on the corner of Lakewood Boulevard & Cunningham Drive in DownTown Park Forest. Since 1974, the Park Forest Farmers’ Market has been connecting area residents with local farmers, food vendors and businesses.  The Market hosts 22 full spaces with a variety of fresh flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery goods, herbs and dairy products.  Local businesses are also on hand at the Market selling artwork, garden ornaments, jewelry and more. The Market accepts LINK/Snap card as well as Double Value Coupons & Senior Nutrition Coupons. Additional information about the Park Forest Farmers’ Market can be found here. If you are you a farmer, food vendor, or civic group who would be interested in a booth at the Park Forest Farmers’ Market, call the Park Forest Health Department for additional information at 708-748-1118.

This & That

Congresswoman Robin Kelly, 600 Holiday Plaza Drive, Suite 505, Matteson

5th Annual Hiring Event – Registration Now in Progress

Congresswoman Robin Kelly will host her 5th Annual Hiring Event for residents of the 2nd Congressional District on Friday, October 27, from 9 a.m. to noon, in the gymnasium of South Suburban College, 15800 State St., South Holland. Last year, more than 85 employers with active job openings met more than 400 job seekers.  Companies and agencies participating this year include UPS, ComEd, Metra Rail, Comcast, the CTA, the U.S. Post Office, Pace, and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. Job seekers can visit www.reprobinkelly.eventbrite.com to register. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. For more information about the Hiring Event, call Alan Banks or Jazmin Alvarez at 708-679-0078 or access www.robinkelly.house.gov.

Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group

Nominations for 2017 Park Forest Business Person of the Year — Nomination Deadline is October 31

The Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) seeks nominees from residents, civic groups, and businesses to recognize a Park Forest business owner who is committed to community service. Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a difference for you or someone you know? Submit your completed nomination form to EDAG in care of the Village of Park Forest. Economic Development & Planning, no later than 5:00 p.m. on October 31, 2017. Nomination Form  Submit forms and/or questions to Sandra Zoellner at 708-283-5623 or [email protected]

Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard

Community Events – Thursday, October 12 & Saturday, October 14

The Park Forest Fire Department will hold the following events in recognition of Fire Prevention Week:

  • 37th Annual Memorial Service and Twilight Parade on Thursday, October 12 with a Service at 6:30 p.m. at St. Irenaeus Church, 78 Cherry Street followed by a Parade at 7 p.m.
  • Open House at the Fire Department Saturday, October 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Park Forest Toastmasters Club

Meeting – Thursday, October 26

The Park Forest Toastmasters Club will meet on Tuesday, October26 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 North Orchard Drive in Park Forest.  The meeting is open to the public.  Toastmaster members develop speaking and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.  For additional information, visit: http://parkforesttoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org/

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

Rummage Sale – Saturday, October 18

UUCC will hold a Fall Rummage Sale on Saturday, October 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the Rummage Sale will help UUCC raise funds to offset its flood related expenses. We will be holding a Rummage Sale, open the public, on Saturday October 28th at UUCC. Come sell your own items ($10 for a space, $15 for a space with a table and chair), crafters welcome OR donate items for the church to sell. Donations must be received by October 22nd. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Business Attire Wanted – Collection Now in Progress

The Village of Park Forest is collecting gently used or new men and women business attire. Clean out your closet and contribute to a good cause.  This project will provide business attire for any constituent looking to dress professional for work or interviews. Donations may include:

  • Suits for men and women
  • Ties, belts and shoes
  • Blazers,
  • Dress pants,
  • Dress shirts
  • Blouses,
  • Dresses and skirts, and
  • Clothing Racks and Hangers

Drop off is by appointment only. For additional information or to schedule a drop-off appointment, call or email Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or [email protected].


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