Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—May 6, 2013. The ‘Bike & Hike Benefit for Thorn Creek Woods’ will take place on Saturday, May 11^th. Ride your motorcycle or bike to the Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest, where you can savor homemade soups, tour the Nature Center and enjoy a two mile hike. This benefit event is in memory of the late Joe Hanes who along with his wife, Alice, were early supporters of Thorn Creek Woods and the Chicago Region BMW Motorcycle Owners Association, one of the sponsors of the event. Other event sponsors are the Friends of Thorn Creek Woods, Park Forest Environment Commission and the Park Forest Garden Club. Additional information about the benefit can be found in the ‘Green Events’ section.

Next Sunday, May 12, we will celebrate Mother’s Day – a day intended to recognize mothers, motherhood and maternal bonds, as well as the positive contributions that they make to society. Don’t forget to say thank-you to that special Mom in your life on Sunday.

The South Suburban Senior Fair will be held on Friday, May 17 at the Rich Township Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty rive, Park Forest. The event will feature more than 25 businesses, organizations and services that are marketed primarily to seniors. Experts in the field of senior services will also be in attendance. The event is a joint venture between the Park Forest Rotary Club, Park Forest Health Department and Rich Township Senior Center. Lunch will also be served in the Rich Township Senior Café for $2.50. Luncheon reservations must be made by Wednesday, May 8^th. Additional information can be found in the ‘Healthy Living’ section.

Remember, 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 will meet on Monday, May 6 at 7 p.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/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=BoardMtgArchive&category=Village%20Government and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village Commission & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commission will meet the week of May 6:

• Tuesday, May 7 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission

All meetings are held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Grande Prairie Singers, Park Forest

Season’s Closing Concert – Sunday, May 19

The Grande Prairie Singers perform the music of some of the best contemporary composers Sun., May 19, with “American Choral Music Today.” The season’s closing concert begins at 4:00 p.m. at Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest. The program includes works by Morten Lauridsen (“O Magnum Mysterium”), Eric Whitacre (“This Marriage,” “Lux Arumque”), Guy Forbes (“Ubi Caritas,” “O Nata Lux”), David Brunner (“I Am in Need of Music”), John Corigliano (“L’Invitation au Voyage”) and Robert Boyd (“Sing to Me, Guiding Stars”). In addition, GPS Assistant Director Darrell Dalton has written “Then I Saw a New Heaven” especially for the performance. The longtime Southland musician, instructor and composer set Carl Sandburg’s poem “Chicago” to music for the Grande Prairie Singers’ European concert tour in 2006. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door; for students with ID, $10. The Grande Prairie Singers are led by Jo Rodenburg, now in her third season as artistic director. For more information on Grande Prairie Choral Arts, including its Children’s Choral Workshop, visit facebook.com/gpchoral or www.grandeprairiechoral.org . Contact them at [email protected] or 708-481-8684.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Beethoven’s 9^th & Lincoln Portrait – Saturday, May 11

On Saturday, May 11 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center
19900 S. Harlem Avenue, Frankfort, David Danzmayr will conduct the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance of ‘Lincoln Portrait’ by Aaron Copland and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125. The DePaul University Choirs will be featured. Tickets are priced at $55, $45, and $35. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, visit  http://www.ipomusic.org/index.php/concerts.html or call, 708-481-7774.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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, May 6 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, May 6 at 2 p.m. – Best of the Web — Find out about some of the best web sites around like Pinterest and others! Registration required.
• Monday, May 6 at 4 p.m. – Girl Read Activity — For 7th and 8th grade girls. This week we’re reading “Lost and Found” from the Bluford High series.
• Tuesday, May 7 at 10:30 a.m. – Movement and 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, May 7 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, May 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Microsoft PowerPoint — An introduction to using the presentation program Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Wednesday, May 8 at 10:30 a.m. — Art Club (Pre-K) — 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, May 8 at 5 p.m. — Art Club (K-3rd) — 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, May 8 at 6 p.m. — Art Club (4th-6th) — 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.
• Thursday, May 9 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, May 9 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.
• Thursday, May 9 at 6 p.m. – Basic Email — Learn to the basics of using Gmail Email. If you do not have a Gmail account, please sign up before the class. Registration required.
• Friday, May 10 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. 31.
• Saturday, May 11 at 12 p.m. — Mother’s Day Gifts — Come join to create special gifts for Mom. Children of all ages are welcome.
• Saturday, May 11 at 2 p.m. – Microsoft PowerPoint Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.

For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org/

Library Closure – Sunday, May 11

The Park Forest Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 11 in honor of Mother’s Day.

Museum Adventure Pass

Visit the Park Forest Public Library and check out a museum! View the list of participating museums for details on each destination. Find out what discoveries await you, get directions to the museum, and review each museum’s pass entry offer (including any restrictions that may apply). Come into the library with your Park Forest library card to check out a pass today.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

Park Forest House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 141 Forest Blvd, Park Forest, is open Wednesday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the museum can also be open for groups by appointment, at other times. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under free with an adult. Scout and school tours are priced individually. For details, to arrange a special group tour, or to volunteer, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252.

Park Forest Plaza Print for Sale

Annabelle Gould’s print of the Park Forest Plaza is available for sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. The vibrant print is from an original watercolor, showing kids and their moms in the Park Forest Plaza, in front of the old Holiday Theatre and Golden Hanger Shop. The print can be purchased at the House Museum during normal hours of operation on Wednesdays and Saturdays or through the Society’s online store on their website at 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.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

‘The Boys Are Back’ – Opens Friday, May 10

Robert Carr and Gerald Saunders will present their paintings and affordable prints beginning on Friday, May 10. The exhibit will run through May 31. An opening night reception will be held on Friday, May 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Refreshments and music will be provided. 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. For additional information, call 708-703-7806.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Process and Narrative’ – Through June 2

‘Process and Narrative’ an exhibit curated by Thomas Lanham, will run through June 2. ‘Process and Narrative’ explores the process of creating a work of art and the creation of narrative themes, particularly through preliminary drawings and graphic media. The exhibit features the works of four artists: Tim Hailey, Laura Richens, Charles Rolwing and Calvin Moore. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Summer Musical Theatre Camp to Feature Songs, Dances from the Wonderful Land of Oz – Registration Now in Progress

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to this summer’s Musical Theatre Camp at GSU’s Center for Performing Arts. This year’s camp, from June 17 to 21, takes its inspiration from “The Wizard of Oz” as young participants learn classic songs like “Over the Rainbow” and valuable theater skills. Campers develop a mini-musical based on “The Wizard of Oz” and perform a one-time-only production at the center on Friday, June 21 at 7 p.m. During the camp, students will learn songs, choreography, and scenes from the play. Professional coaches will work with campers on scene study, voice, diction, improvisation, singing and dancing. Musical Theatre Camp is open to children ages 7 to 13. Camp takes place six hours each day, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $250 for the week; the price of the camp also includes four tickets for the Friday night performance. Additional tickets for the performance are $10. To reserve a spot at Musical Theatre Camp, call the box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

Habitat for Humanity Chicago South Suburbs, 139 West Joe Orr Road, Chicago Heights, IL

‘Hard Hats & High Heels’ Fundraising Event – Friday, May 10

‘Hard Hats & High Heels’ a wine and beer tasting fundraising event benefitting Habitat for Humanity Chicago South Suburbs will be held on Friday, May 10 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will be held at the Union Street Art Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights. Food pairings, live music, freshly rolled cigars and a “Chance Auction” will be featured. Tickets are priced at $45 in advance and $50 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at the Habitat Office, 139 W. Joe Orr Road, or online at  http://hardhatshighheels.charityhappenings.org/

South Suburban College, 15800 South State Street, South Holland

Bi-annual Student Art Exhibition – Through Friday, May 10

The South Suburban College Bi-annual Student Art Exhibition is currently on display in the fourth floor galleries at the college’s Main Campus. Students of the Art & Design program are displaying over 300 works of art through Friday, May 10. A “pot luck” Artist Reception will be held on Wednesday, May 8 at 12 noon in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery. Both the exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. Works will be on view Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information, call 708-596-2000 extension 2445.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

Rediscovering Chicago Heights ‘Community Photo-Voice Project’ – Through May 11

Compiling the photographs by the citizen photographers and the two professional photographers, Union Street Gallery will present an exhibition of photography which celebrates diversity, beauty, meaning and positive aspects of the Chicago Heights community. The entire Chicago Heights community will be invited to view the exhibition through May 11. The gallery will be hosting an arts & Jazz Festival Saturday May 11th to celebrate the project, the exhibit, and community of Chicago Heights. All events are free and open to the public. Along with the exhibit and festival, the gallery will be creating street banners and a book with photos and quotes by the citizen photographers that will be available for sale and distribution throughout the community. These items, which will be around for years to come, will help this project have a lasting positive impact on the community. For additional information, and Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

DePaul University School of Music, Chicago

Annual Spring Concert – Wednesday, May 29

‘Aureole,’ a commissioned orchestral overture written by Chicago composer Augusta Read Thomas, will have its world premiere at the DePaul University School of Music’s annual spring concert which will be held on May 29 at 8 p.m. in Orchestra Hall and Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Conducted by Cliff Colnot, the DePaul Symphony Orchestra and Chorus will perform the new work preceding Beethoven’s majestic Ninth Symphony. Tickets for the concert, which marks the DePaul School of Music’s centennial celebration, are on sale for $5 at the Symphony Center Box Office, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets can also be purchased with an additional service fee by calling 312-294-3000 or online at www.cso.org.   Additional information about the Spring Concert is online at www.bit.ly/ZRJIWy.

National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 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.

‘Not About Bombs’ – Through Fall 2013

The NVAM will host the opening of ‘Not About Bombs,’ a celebrated exhibit featuring the work by five Iraqi women artists through Fall 2013. The show will be open to the public through Fall 2013. For additional information, visit the museum’s website at www.nvam.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Summer Language Therapy for 10 to 14 Year Olds

The Building Complex Language Project is offering free individual language therapy for complex sentence development as part of a clinical study. The program is designed for students between 10 and 14 years old who have a history of speech/language delay/impairment or learning disability, normal hearing, and no intellectual impairment/developmental delay. Your child or student may be eligible for this program if he or she has difficulties with understanding or using spoken or written sentences. Screening and enrollment are taking place now through June. The program will involve pre- and post-testing and one or two hours of individual lessons per week for nine weeks, beginning in May or June. All schedules will be arranged individually with families and the program’s licensed, certified speech-language pathologists, but typically sessions are arranged on weekday afternoons and evenings. Vacation and camp schedules can usually be accommodated. Transportation will not be provided. This program is being offered at several convenient locations, including the GSU Naperville Education Center, GSU, Rush University Medical Center, and Elmhurst College. Additional sites may also be arranged. This program is supported by a grant from the national Institute on Deafness and Other Communicative Disorders. For additional information, contact Dr. Catherine Balthazar, Associate Professor of Communication Disorders, at 708-534-4592 or email  [email protected].

Transfer Thursdays

GSU is offering qualified undergraduate applicants the opportunity to get admitted to the university “on the spot” with a new program called Transfer Thursdays. Twice a month on selected Thursdays, the Office of Admissions and Student Recruitment will host instant admission opportunities. The first Transfer Thursday will be held on May 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additional dates and times are listed at www.govst.edu/transferthursdays. Representatives from the Offices of Admissions, Financial Aid, and Career Services will be on hand to answer questions and guide prospective students through the application process and answer questions about bachelor’s degree programs offered in the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business and Public Administration, Education, and Health and Human Services. Qualified applications for all undergraduate degree programs, except art, nursing, and social work, will be accepted and processed immediately. Attendees are asked to bring official transcripts. The undergraduate application fee is $25. Applicants must have completed at least 60 semester hours or an associate degree. For additional information, call 78-534-4490.

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].

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

Court Reporting Open House to be Held in Oak Forest – Thursday, May 9

SSC will host an Open House for the Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program on Thursday, May 9 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the University & College Center in Oak Forest (16333 South Kilbourn Avenue), room 5230. The Program is fully accredited by the national Court Reporters Association. It is a comprehensive career education program that can lead to an exciting, high paying career. Upon completion of all the courses, students receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree and are well-prepared to take the Illinois Certified Shorthand Reporter Examination – the professional certifying exam for the State of Illinois. Reporters are I high demand and may work in areas such as judicial reporting, broadcast captioning, steno interpreting and web casting. In addition to the excellent earnings, court reporters have opportunities for travel, exposure to high-profile cases, and self-employment. All of the classes are held in the oak Forest location. For additional information, call LaTherese Cooke at 708-596-2000, extension 3217, or visit www.ssc.edu.

5^th Annual Alumni Association Banquet – Tuesday, May 7

SSC, formerly Thornton Community College, is looking for alumni of the ADA/LPN Nursing programs to participate in their 5^th Annual Alumni Association Banquet on Tuesday, May 7 in the Heritage Room at SSC’s main campus. The cost of attending the banquet is $25 per person ($20 for current students). Checks should be made payable to the “SSC Alumni Association” and mailed to SSC c/o the Department of Nursing at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL 60473. All donations are also welcome for the Nursing Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. For additional information, call La’Sheah Stewart a 708-596-2000, extension 2509 or email  [email protected].

Breakfast with BCI Presents ‘Seven Low Cost Marketing Strategies You Can Implement Right Away’ – Registration Required by Tuesday, May 7

SSC’s Breakfast with BCI presents ‘Seven Low Cost Marketing Strategies You Can Implement Right Away’ with special guest speaker Summer Alexander, CEO of Summer Alexander Research & marketing, on Thursday, May 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the Heritage Room on the 1^st floor of the main campus in South Holland. Effective marketing is one of the most valuable assets to businesses. In this workshop, attendees will learn how to identify ideal customers and craft a marketing message to speak directly to them; what to do now in order to stand out from competitors, and seven cost-effective strategies that can be implemented right away. The cost of the program is $15 per person or $10 if there are three or more from the same company attend. RSVP is required by Tuesday, May 7. For additional information or to register, please call Alexandra Glumac at 708-595-2000, extension 2346 or e-mail aglumac#ssc.edu.

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

Park Forest Rotary Club, Park Forest Health Department & Rich Township Senior Center

South Suburban Senior Fair – Friday, May 17

The South Suburban Senior Fair will be held on Friday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Rich Township Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest. The event feature more than 25 businesses, organizations and services that hold seniors as their main priority. Come out and gather information and talk with experts in the field of senior services. You may also win a raffle or a door prize. Coffee and refreshments will be served. For additional information about the South Suburban Senior Fair, call 708-748-5454. At noon, lunch will be served in the Rich Township Senior Café for $2.50. If you would like lunch, please call 708-747-2700 by Wednesday, May 8 to make your reservation. The only requirement for lunch is that you or your spouse be age 60 or older.

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

The Village of Park Forest will once again offer residents the opportunity to use vacant, Village-owned property for purposes of developing a community garden. Gardening groups using Village-owned lots will be reimbursed up to $370 for allowable gardening expenditures. This $370 reimbursement represents the amount that the Village would pay to have the lot maintained over the course of the summer. If you would like to garden, but don’t want to take on an entire Village-owned lot, we can assist you in finding a group where you can try out your ‘green thumbs’! For additional information about the Community Garden Project, please e-mail Rosemary Piser at  [email protected] or Sarah Coulter, the Village’s Sustainability Consultant at  [email protected].

Park Forest Police & Recreation & Parks Departments

National Kids to Parks Day – Saturday, May 18, 2013

Hundreds of thousands of children nationwide, including here in Park Forest will take part in a grassroots movement to discover America’s parks through play on Saturday, May 18, to commemorate National Park Trust’s (NPT) third annual National Kids to Parks Day. A special commemorative National Kids to Parks Day is being planned for 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Central Park, and all are invited to start their day of play there and adventure out to all Park Forest’s other outdoor spaces throughout the day. Activities planned especially for Park Forest include outdoor games in Central Park hosted by the Park Forest Police Department and PAAC as well as guided tours of the Central Park Wetlands. Other special activities include fun spaces to “Discover Art” to “Discover Health” and to “Discover Science.” Plan to enjoy the day with family and friends and get a jump start on a healthy, fun summer in the parks! Visit the Park Forest website at www.kidstoparks.org and sign up so that local families can be counted in the national tally. Then, on May 18, families are encouraged to visit a park or recreation area and submit photos of their adventures to  [email protected] for possible inclusion in NPT’s national map commemorating the day. For more information please call the Recreation & Parks Department at 708-748-2005. 

Park Forest Area League of Women Voters

Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

‘Bike and Hike Benefit for Thorn Creek Woods’ – Registration Required by Thursday, May 9

On Saturday, May 11 from noon to 4 p.m., the ‘Bike and Hike Benefit for Thorn Creek Woods’ will take place. Ride your motorcycle or bicycle to Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest, and savor homemade soups, tour the Nature Center and enjoy a two mile hike. Hiking is on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. This benefit event is in memory of the late Joe Hanes. Joe and his wife Alice were early supporters of Thorn Creek Woods and longtime members of the Chicago Region BMW Motorcycle Owners Association. Co-sponsors of the event are: Friends of Thorn Creek Woods, Chicago Region BMW Motorcycle Owners Association, Park Forest Environment Commission, and Garden Club of Park Forest. There is a suggested donation of $20 per person. Registration required by Thursday, May 9. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320.

Wednesday Morning Walkers – May 8

Every Wednesday morning through June 19 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., those ages 11 through adult can follow the forest’s spring changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on Thorn Creek’s winding trails. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Hiking is on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. There is no fee. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Thorn Creek Morning Bird Hike – Registration Required by Thursday, May 16

Those 10 and older are invited to join the Thorn Creek naturalist for a Morning Bird Hike on Saturday, May 18 from 8 am. to 10 a.m. May is the peak of the spring migration, with gnatcatchers, kinglets, thrushes and warblers in great abundance. As the season progresses, Thorn Creek Woods is bustling with a flurry of activity as local birds build nests and raise their young. Phoebes, bluebirds, woodpeckers and hummingbirds are a few of the summer residents that you might be lucky to see. Even on the rainy, colder days, birds are active, so come dressed for the weather because we will be birding rain or shine. A bird guide and binoculars are recommended. The program will include hiking preserve trails over uneven terrain. Registration is required by Thursday, May 15. To register or for additional information, call 708-946-2216.

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.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

Field Trip to Lake Renwick/Lockport Prairie – Wednesday, May 8

On Wednesday, May 8, TCAS volunteers will lead a bird walk and present an interpretive talk about the Lake Renwick Heron Rookery. Scopes will be provided for clos-up viewing of the many herons, egrets, cornmorants and other wildlife which nest on the islands and around the lake. The TCAS viewing group will leave the Park Forest Library at 8 a.m. and make a brief stop to check the birds at Lockport Prairie before going to the Rookery. After the Rookery we will stop at Pilcher Park Nature Center grounds for lunch while watching more woodland birds, such as warblers and vireos, towhees, grosbeaks, and perhaps a pileated woodpecker. Bring a sack lunch for our Pilcher Park stop. For additional information, call 708-748-6407.

Field Trip to Magic Hedge/Montrose – Saturday, May 11

A field trip to Magic Hedge/Montrose will take place on Saturday, May 11 beginning at 7 a.m. This is a bottleneck area for birds traveling through the Central Midwest flyway. Montrose Beach is an overnight sit-down spot for many migrants and has been restored to accommodate more birds. It is called magic hedge because it is a bird magnet during migration. We may see a wide variety of songbirds, especially colorful spring warblers, some waterbirds, and possibly a Peregrine Falcon. If you are not carpooling, take Lake Shore Drive, get off at Montrose Beach exit east, and follow the signs. For additional information, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847 or email  [email protected].

Village of Park Forest

Park Forest Farmers’ Market 40^th Season – Every Saturday Through October 26

Every Saturday morning through October 26^th, you’ll find that the Park Forest Farmers’ Market has something for everyone. The Market opens at 7 a.m. and ends at noon.  Rain or shine, come and enjoy fresh produce, bakery items, gourmet cheeses, and herbs. In addition, your favorite local businesses set up shop under their awnings with artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more! Come to the Market and see what’s new and take time to meet new friends, chat, browse, have breakfast or lunch, and shop around. Local civic groups are welcome to give demonstrations, hold fundraisers and other small events at the Market for no charge but must be registered in advance. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is located in the parking lot one block east of Walgreens; just across from the Park Forest Police Department. Electronic payment (debit and credit cards) as well as Link, WIC and Senior program coupons now accepted. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit the Farmers’ Market page at www.pfhealth.net.

This & That

Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest

Free Java Tuesdays

All are invited to Faith United Protestant Church for FREE Java Tuesdays. Visitors are asked to go to the Indianwood Boulevard side entrance between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. for free curbside service or to come and sit a bit. The event will continue each Tuesday as a form of outreach to the community throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call 708-747-1330.

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

Friday Fish Fry – Friday, May 10

Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, May 10 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.

Rehoboth Ministries Church of God in Christ, 300 Westgate, Park Forest

‘Sista to Sista’ Brunch – Saturday, May 11

On Saturday, May 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Rehoboth Women’s department will be hosting a brunch in honor of Mothers. Come and enjoy fellowship and good food. Donation is $10 per person. For additional information call Miriam Knox at 708-691-4556.

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

Bulldogs Baseball & Basketball Camps Coming to SSC in June

The SSC Baseball and Basketball Programs are accepting registrations for their summer camps in June. The 2013 Bulldog Baseball Camp will take place from Monday, June 17 through Thursday, June 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Bulldog Stadium. The camp is designed for kids ages 6 – 14, and is directed by Head Coach Steve Ruzich and current players. The cost of the camp is $75 per camper for all four days of instruction. Each camper should have gym shoes, spikes, sweat clothes, and bring their own equipment. For additional information or to register, contact Coach Ruzich at 708-596-2000, extension 2413 or email  [email protected].

The Bulldog Basketball Program will host two camps – a Championship Basketball Camp from June 24 through 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a Championship Shooting Camp from June 17 through 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the SSC Fitness Center. The camps are designed for boys and girls ages 7 – 17, and will be directed by Head Coach John Pigatti and players from the 2013 Bulldog Basketball Team. The cost of the Shooting Camp is $60 and the Basketball Camp is $100, with a special price of $140 for both camps. Campers will need shorts, basketball shoes, and a T-shirt or practice uniform. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase every day of the camps. The main goal of these camps is to provide each individual with the opportunity to become a better player and to have some fun along the way. In order to accomplish these goals, the emphasis will be on the fundamentals of basketball. For additional information or to register for the Basketball Camps, please contact Coach Pigatti at 708-596-2000, extension 2524 or email  [email protected].

Community Job Fair – Tuesday, May 21

SSC and Thornton Township are partnering to offer a 2013 Community Job Fair on Tuesday, May 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the SSC Fitness Center, 15800 South State Street, South Holland. SSC and Thornton Township invite all job seekers to participate at this special event at no charge. The Community Job Fair is an excellent opportunity for employers to recruit upcoming SSC graduates and alumni, current students, and community residents. The following employers/service organizations will participate: Alpha School Bus Company; Awakened Alternatives; Child Life Academy; Citizens Financial Bank; Countryside Nursing; Homewood Police Department; Illinois School Bus Company; Illinois Tollway; The Menta Group; Prodigy Preparatory Academy; and Vector Engineering. Additional companies are also expected to participate. For additional information, call Gerri Weatherspoon at 708-596-2000, extension 2391 or email  [email protected].

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

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

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

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

Greening of Park Forest

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

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

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

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

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

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

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

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

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

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

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

Sources: Park Forest 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.