Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—November 14, 2011. Beginning this week, the annual ‘Holiday Activities’ topic has been added to the column that will feature holiday-related events and sales happening in the south suburbs. Be sure to check them out when you start making your list of things to do during this joyful season. And save yourself a great deal of holiday stress by doing your shopping locally.

Don’t forget that this year’s Park Forest Idols showcase will be opening its auditions to the entire South Suburbs. Entry forms must be submitted by November 14. For additional information, see the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section below.
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 Meetings

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Advisory Board will meet the week of November 14:

• Tuesday, November 15 at 7 p.m. – Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

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

Holiday Activities

Park Forest Mayor’s Citizen Advisory Council (MCAC)

Thanksgiving Coat-Drive to Benefit Respond Now Christmas Store

The Park Forest Mayor’s Citizens Advisory Committee is conducting a winter coat drive. All items collected will be given to the Respond Now Christmas Store. Coats for both adults and children should be clean and in good, wearable condition. A full-day collection of coats will be held by the MCAC on Saturday, November 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the entranceway to the MCAC offices, 324 Forest Boulevard (south of the Mike Jordan State Farm Agency). Coats can also be dropped off the week of November 14 at Tower Cleaners, 230 Forest Boulevard or the Mike Jordan State Farm Agency, 308 Forest Boulevard during regular business hours. For additional information, call 708-679-4599 or e-mail [email protected].

Village of Park Forest

Make a Difference for a Child This Christmas

The Rich Township Pantry has provided the Village of Park Forest with name tags and gift requests for 30 children. The tags and requests are available at Village Hall, 350, Victory Drive. Pick up a tag, buy a new gift, and return the tag with the unwrapped gift to the Economic Development and Planning Department on the 2nd Floor of Village Hall. Additional name tags and requests will be available on the Village’s Holiday Tree in the Lobby of Village Hall. Please bring all unwrapped gifts to the 2nd Floor of Village Hall no later than December 8.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Friends of the Park Forest Library Holiday Fundraiser – Pecans are Back!

The Friends of the Park Forest Library are holding their annual holiday fundraiser to benefit the Park Forest Library. This is the only fundraiser held during the year for the Library. Items available include:

• Fresh Mammoth Pecan Halves for $10 per 1 pound package
• Candy Pecans for $9 per package (choices include milk chocolate covered pecans, dark chocolate covered pecans, pecan clusters, cinnamon glazed pecans and glazed pecans)
• Friends of the Library Mug – $6
• Book Lovers’ Calendar – $6
• Pecans and Calendar – $16
• Pecans and Mug – $16
• Mug and Calendar – $11

Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale – Friday, November 18

The Rich Township Senior Center will hold its Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale on Friday, November 18 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Homemade crafts and baked goods will be available for purchase. Coffee and goodies will be served throughout the day. Join us for a day of shopping, eating and friendship. For additional information, please call, 708-748-5454.

Rotary Club of Park Forest

30th Annual Poinsettia Sale

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is embarking on its 30th Annual Poinsettia Sale. All profits go directly to fund the club’s local service projects that will benefit the youth and elderly and to Rotary international’s efforts to eradicate polio worldwide. Red and white poinsettias can be purchased for $10 each. Orders must be placed no later than 3 p.m. on December 3. For additional information or to download an order form, visit: http://www.rotaryofparkforest.org/.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

Holiday Sale – Opening Day Friday, November 18

Salon Artists Gallery’s Holiday Sale will begin with an opening reception on Friday, November 18 from noon until 9 p.m. The opening will feature live music from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. The sale will run through December 22 and will feature original one-of-a-kind artwork and unique gifts at affordable prices. 10% off items over $30. Gallery Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from noon to 4 p.m., Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-833-5108 or 708-748-3946.

Sertoma Center, In., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip

‘Eye4Style Shopping Event’ to Benefit Individuals with Disabilities – Thursday, November 17

Start your holiday shopping and make the holidays a little warner for Sertoma Centre’s Consumers at the ‘Eye4Style Shopping event’ that will be held on Thursday, November 17 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Eye4Style, 60 Shore Drive, Burr Ridge, IL. Enjoy complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres while browsing an incredible collection of reasonable priced jewelry. Learn more about what Sertoma Centre does and receive some amazing holiday gift ideas. Eye4Style will generously donate a percentage of the evening’s sales to Sertoma to help those with disabilities purchase warm coats for winter. For additional details about the event, visit www.sertomacentre.org. To RSVP, please call Cheryl Host at 708-730-6210 or e-mail [email protected] or [email protected]. If you are unable to attend the event but would like to make a donation to Sertoma, please call Sertoma at 708-730-6206.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

Annual Holiday Sale – Opening Reception Friday, November 18

Tall Grass Arts Association’s Annual Holiday Sale of affordable fine art and crafts will begin with an opening reception on Friday, November 18 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. The sale will continue through January 8. Get creative for the holidays and consider giving the gift of art. At Tall Grass you will find jewelry, mirrors, casseroles, wooden bowls, prints, photographs, paintings and holiday decorations that are unique. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Holiday Show – Gallery Artists – Through January 7

The Holiday Show exhibit will feature the artwork of Tall Grass Gallery Artists and invited artists, many of whom have shown their work nationally or internationally. The exhibit will run through January 7. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

Nature Holiday Cards & Gifts

A nesting box for use by bluebirds, house wrens or chickadees is the perfect gift for your bird-loving friends. TCAS offers a well-constructed pine box with a predator guard at the entrance hole for $15. Packets of six notecards and envelopes with original pictures of bluebirds, spring birds, wildflowers of Raccoon Grove, the common loon or a group of Illinois birds sell for $4. You can also send Holiday cards with a nature message, such as winter cardinals, a wreath with six birds, a wood duck or a bluebird with a wreath. Packets of 12 cards and envelopes cost only $7. Send ‘Audubon Adventures’ to a local classroom as a gift in honor of a friend or relative. In that way you will be giving a gift to an entire group of youngsters. A special card will announce the donation. Contact Aura Duke at 708-748-6407 to purchase your cards and gifts.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

‘Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Celebrate the holidays with ‘Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!’ on Saturday, December 3 at 11 a.m. and Sunday, December 4 at 1 p.m. in Emerald City Theatre’s adaption of the best-selling children’s book series by Barbara Park. This show is ideal family entertainment and is part of the BGSU Center’s “Especially for Kids” series. The show runs approximately 60 minutes and is appropriate for children 3 and older. Tickets range in price from $10.50 to $15.50. Tickets can be purchased by calling 708-235-2222 or online at www.centertickets.net.

Salt Creek Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ – Tickets Now on Sale

The weather outside may be frightful, but this timeless holiday ballet sure is delightful. Employing a cast of over 75 talented local dancers, this seasonal gem will delight audiences young and old. Before the show, get your picture taken with Santa Claus, sing along with holiday carolers and enjoy holiday treats. The ballet will be presented on Saturday, December 10 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets range in price from $15 to $40 with special ticket prices for students. Tickets can be purchased by calling 708-235-2222 or online at www.centertickets.net.

Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery, 3 W. Nebraska St., Frankfort

Pre-Holiday Sale – Friday, November 18

Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery will hold a pre-holiday sale on Friday, November 18 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Art, photography, art supplies, organic gift sets, and gift certificates will be on sale. For additional information, call 815-464-8818 or visit: http://www.monkeymindartstudio.com/.

Arts & Entertainment

Freedom Hall – Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest

Mac Frampton – Tuesday, November 15

On Tuesday, November 15 at 11 a.m., the Senior Series will continue with Mac Frampton. Back by popular demand, Mac Frampton’s credits include the Van Cliburn Competition, the Boston Pops, 22 albums, 10 original revues, reams of critical raves, unprecedented return engagements, and accolades abound. A tour de force, from Rhapsody in Blue to Blue Suede Shoes, Mac Frampton redefines the piano with power, precision, and playfulness. This concert will include a stirring, evocative homage to our homeland including America the Beautiful, God Bless America and many more. Tickets are $11. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

The Marcya Daneille “6” featuring Chris Greene in “All of Me” – Saturday, November 19

On Saturday, November 19 at 8 p.m., Park Forest native jazz vocalist Marcya Daneille and her sextet “6” will return to Freedom Hall along with featured artist, Chicago area rising star saxophonist Chris Greene. Marcya’s melodious voice has been described as “…the perfect blend of Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington and Sarah Vaughan with a dash of Billie Holiday.” Chris Greene has been described as”…an almost impossibly nimble sax player…” “All of Me” promises a soulful journey through classic jazz standards, heartfelt gospel and contemporary crowd pleasing grooves. Tickets are $28. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

• Monday, November 14 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Monday, November 14  at 1:30 pm. – Basic Job Search Online *
• Monday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m. – Jazz on Monday Nights featuring saxophone great Cannonball Adderly
• Tuesday, November 15 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Tuesday, November 15 at 6:30 p.m. – Tuesdays Full of the Blues featuring digitally remastered performances of Willie Dixon. Joining us will be Mrs. Marie Dixon to share memories of her late husband.
• Tuesday, November 15 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for all ages
• Wednesday, November 16 at 1 p.m. – Opera in the Afternoon: ‘Don Giovanni’ featuring Thomas Allen with the orchestra conducted by Richard Muti
• Wednesday, November 16 at 3:30 p.m. – Afterschool Games/Crafts
• Thursday, November 17 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit Storytime for those ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver
• Thursday, November 17 at 10:30 a.m. – Potpourri of Lectures – ‘Prague to Vienna by Bicycle’ by bicyclist Al Sturges
• Thursday, November 17 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 – 4 with caregiver
• Thursday, November 17 at 4 p.m. – Job search and Internet Practice — The first ten people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration for the practice sessions.
• Thursday, November 17 at 7 p.m. – Celebrating Illinois Family Reading Night – featuring stories, Reader’s Theatre and book swap
• Friday, November 18 at 1 p.m. – Senior Travelogue: ‘Paraguay’
• Friday, November 18 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Time
• Saturday, November 19 at 11 a.m. – Microsoft Word *
• Saturday, November 19 at 2 p.m. – Getting Ready for Thanksgiving – a family program with centerpiece craft, kid-friendly recipes and more

*Register in Adult Services Department.

For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.

Park Forest Community Relations

Park Forest Idols – Battle of the Suburbs – Audition Entry Form Deadline – Monday, November 14

This year’s Park Forest Idols showcase will be opening its auditions to the entire South Suburbs. Entry forms are now available and must be submitted by November 14. There will be a $300 prize for the first place winner in each category. Categories include: singing, rapping, and dancing. Each contestant will be expected to audition to be selected for the Battle. For additional information or to get an entry form, call 708-283-5621 or e-mail Evelyn Sterling at [email protected].

Park Forest Recreation & Parks

December Senior Trip – Sound of Music Show & Lunch at Drury Lane Theatre (Oakbrook Terrace, IL) – Registration Deadline November 22

On Wednesday, December 14th come see the final collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein, one of the world’s most cherished musicals. Based on an inspiring true story, “The Sound of Music” is one of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved musicals. Set in Austria on the brink of WWII, Maria a postulant proves too high-spirited for the religious life and is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven children of a widowed naval Captain. Her growing rapport with the youngsters, coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the stern Captain. This beloved story features many memorable tunes, including “Climb Every Mountain”, “My Favorite Things”, “Do Re Mi”, and “Edelweiss”. 

Lunch is included before the show and will consist of an entrée (your choice of Baked Tilapia or Sirloin of Beef), vegetables, potato or rice, fresh baked bread, dessert and choice of beverage.  Vegetarian option available upon request.  Please mention your entrée choice when registering.  Cost of the trip is $65 per person which includes lunch, the play and round trip bus transportation that will depart from Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Blvd., at 10 a.m. and return at approximately 5 p.m. Registration Deadline:  November 22, 2011.  Register in person or over the phone with a credit card.  Register at the Recreation and Parks Department, Village Hall
350 Victory Drive, or by phone with a credit card at 708-748-2005.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walkway, Park Forest

‘Greetings!’ by Tom Dudzick – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for Tom Dudzick’s ‘Greetings!’ which will open on December 2 and run through December 18. This heartwarming holiday comedy from the author of the smash hit ‘Over the Tavern’ tells the story of a young man who brings his New York Atheist-Jewish girlfriend home to meet his Pittsburgh Polish-Catholic family on Christmas Eve. Before the night is out, miracles will happen and everybody will question what they actually believe. The L.A. Times called it “a wonderful, wacky look at how cleverly a mixture of Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Age philosophy can flick on the electricity.” Tickets are priced at $22 and $20. There is a $1 discount for students and seniors. For additional information, show times, or to purchase tickets, call 708- 481-3510 or visit www.ilthctr.org.

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

‘Remembering Marshall Field’s’ Book Discussion – Saturday, November 19

Historian Leslie Goddard will discuss and sell her new book ‘Remembering Marshall Field’s’ on Saturday, November 19 at 2:30 p.m. in Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The program is free and open to the public. Goddard spent more than a year digging through the Park Forest House Museum, Park Forest Library and corporate archives to locate the more than 200 photographs and stories that make up the book. Bricks from the former Marshall Field’s Store will also be available to purchase.

Bricks from Former Marshall Field’s Store for Sale

Bricks from the former Marshall Field’s Store in DownTown Park Forest are on sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. Bricks are $15 each or two for $25. Each brick comes with a certificate of authenticity and a brief history of the store. Bricks can be purchased at the Museum during Museum hours which are Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information, visit: www.parkforesthistory.org.

Park Forest House Museum

Fall Hours – Open on Wednesdays & Saturdays Through November

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is increasing its hours through November. The Museum will be open on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from Noon to 3 p.m. Group tours can be arranged for other times by appointment. It is an original rental townhome decorated as it might have looked from 1946 – 1953 during the first five years of Park Forest. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. For additional information, visit www.parkforesthistory.org or call Jane Nicoll, Museum Director, at 708-481-4252 or email at [email protected].

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

‘From Russia With Love’ – Saturday, November 19

The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s 34th Season debuts on Saturday, November 19 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort. A matinee performance beginning at 3 p.m. will take place on Sunday, November 20. The concerts will feature Maestra Rei Hotoda, assistant conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, who will lead a concert of masterpieces that run the gamut of human emotion. Both concerts will feature Stravinsky’s Russian folk music ballet, Petrushka, overflows with the colors of a Russian fair and a pathetic, lovelorn puppet that comes to life. Fauré’s Penelope Prelude depicts the dramatic reunion of lovers Ulysses and Penelope from Homer’s Odyssey. Beethoven’s triumphal Symphony No. 5 follows with its rhythmic punch and one of the most popular opening themes of all time. Don’t miss this explosive start to the IPO’s exciting season. Tickets are priced at $30, $40 and $50 for the November 19 performance and $25 and $30 for the November 20 matinee. To purchase tickets, visit: https://secure.ticketsage.net. For additional information, call the IPO office at (708) 481-7774 or visit: http://ipomusic.org/

PRELUDE: An Opening Night Celebration and Dinner Party – Saturday, November 19

Celebrate the start of IPO’s 34th Concert Season at an Opening Night Celebration and Dinner Party to be held on Saturday, November 19 at Prestwick Country Club, 601 Prestwick Drive, Frankfort, IL. Cocktail service will begin at 4:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 5:45 p.m.
Keyboard entertainment will be performed by Roger Pampel. Tickets are $75 per person. Call the IPO Box Office for reservations at 708-481-7774.

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

‘Additive/Subtractive; Sensory Interactions Developed by a Geometric Algorithm’ – Opening Reception Thursday, November 17

On Thursday, November 17 GSU graduate Tim Vitek of Chicago will unveil a collection of new artwork at the University’s Visual Arts Gallery called ‘Additive/Subtractive’ Sensory Interactions Developed by a Geometric Algorithm.’ An opening reception celebrating the artist will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The exhibit runs through November 23. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-534-4021 or visit www.govst.edu/gallery.

Storytelling Festival Returns to GSU Saturday, November 19

‘Tellebration!’ returns to GSU on Saturday, November 19 as three master storytellers will delight and captivate their audience as part of a world-wide celebration of the spoken word. The free event takes place at 7 p.m. in the E Lounge on GSU’s main campus in University Park. ‘Telebration!’ was introduced to Chicago Southland audiences for the first time in 2010. The event originated 19 years ago as a means of building grassroots community support for the age-old art of storytelling. GSU is now one of 400 official sites around the world hosting storytelling events on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Donations will be accepted at ‘Tellebration!’ with all proceeds going to the South Suburban Humane Society and Crossroads Shih Tzu Rescue. For additional information, call 708-534-3074 or e-mail [email protected].

Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery, 3 W. Nebraska St., Frankfort

‘A Little Somethin’ Somethin’ – Call for Artists – Submission Deadline November 19

A Little Somethin’ Somethin’ is a juried exhibition where pieces are specially priced and sold off the wall and switched out during the run of the exhibition. Submission deadline is Saturday, November 19.

• Submit up to five pieces for $30
• Max Size 24 x 24 
• Max Price $200
• Small 3-D work will be considered 

Notifications for accepted work: Wednesday, November 23. For additional information e-mail: [email protected].

Click here for Application, in excel Application in word  and  detailed prospectus.

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

‘In The Eye of the Beholder’ Exhibit – Through Thursday, December 8

The Christopher Art Gallery at PSC is hosting the exhibit ‘In the Eye of the Beholder’ from Monday, through Thursday, December 8. Featured artists are members of the Area Artists Association of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts. The group exhibit will highlight the diversity and professionalism of the Area Artists Association, which was established in 1980 to increase the appreciation and recognition of local and regional member artists through the exhibition and promotion of their work. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-709-3636.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Park Forest Nurses Club

Meeting to be Held Thursday, November 17

The Park Forest Nurses Club will meet on Thursday, November 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 N. Orchard Drive (corner of Lincoln Highway and Orchard Dr.). ‘Make Health & Wellness a Priority in Your Life’ will be presented by Derek Harman, DC. All Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses, active or inactive, are invited to attend. For additional information, call 708-481-8387 or visit www.pfnursesclub.org.

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

First Forum on Jewish/Palestine Conflict – Sunday, November 20

You and your friends and colleagues are invited to attend a series of free forums on the Jewish/Palestine conflict at UUCC. The first forum will be held on Sunday, November 20 at 11:30 a.m.  The topic ‘Israel and Palestine: A liberal Israel-American View’ will be presented by David Borris, a leader in Chicago’s J-Street group and Peace Now. Additional forums are scheduled for January 15 and January 22. For additional information, call 708-277-5923.

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

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday At GSU

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

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

Opt In to Technology at PSC

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

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 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.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers – Wednesday, November 16 – Final Week

On Wednesdays, through November 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., those ages 11 to adult are invited to follow the forest’s fall changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature first-hand on Thorn Creek’s autumn trails. Trails can be wet or muddy so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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

Free Counseling Services Available

Today, individuals and families face economic and social pressures as well as communication difficulties that frequently disrupt family unity and the ability to cope. Counseling is one of the most important tools for understanding and coping. Free, individual, family and vocational counseling is available through GSU’s Division of Psychology and Counseling as part of its training program for advanced graduate counseling students. Faculty members, who are also licensed counselors, supervise the sessions. Counseling sessions are conducted on campus in total confidentiality. For more information, call 708-534-4545 or visit www.govst.edu.

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

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch

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.

Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive (lower level)

Walk-In Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. For fee information or questions, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

Babies, teens and adult immunization and flu and pneumonia clinics will be held on Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details or to schedule an appointment, call 708-748-1118. The Health Department is a low cost provider for children and adult immunizations.

Blood Pressure Screening

A free Blood Pressure Clinic is held at the Park Forest Health Department Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Walk in or call ahead at 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 programs available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.

This & That

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

Seeking Nominations for Park Forest Hall of Fame

Nominations for the Park Forest Hall of Fame are now being accepted from the public through December 30, 2011 by the Park Forest Historical Society. Nominees are selected for consistent, beneficial service to the citizens of Park Forest over a long span of time. The official nomination form must be used and nominations must include the requested information to be accepted. Nomination forms are available at Park Forest Village Hall, the Park Forest Public Library, or the 1950s Park Forest House Museum. The Park Forest Hall of Fame Induction ceremony will be held at Freedom Hall on April 15, 2012.

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.

Garden Club of Park Forest

"A Gardener’s Cookbook"

To celebrate their 55th anniversary, the Park Forest Garden Club offers this cookbook filled with memories, gardening tips, flowery sayings and of course recipes. Makes a great gift. All proceeds go to the club and are used toward community contributions. Cookbooks are $9 and are available at the Park Forest Recreation and Parks Department, 350 Victory Drive. Call 708-748-2005 for additional information.

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

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

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

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

Greening of Park Forest

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

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

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

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

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

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

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

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

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

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

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

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

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

Sources: Park Forest 2011 Autumn Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 2011/2012 Park Forest Fall/Winter Calendar,  Park Forest ‘Discover’ magazine, Rich Township Report, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.