Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of April 15, 2013


Park Forest Trustees Ken Kramer and Bonita Dillard
Retiring Village Trustees Ken Kramer and Bonita Dillard were honored Sunday for their combined 42 of service to the residents of Park Forest: 28 years for Trustee Kramer and 14 for Trustee Dillard. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—April 15, 2013. Prairie State College is inviting job seekers to attend the 2013 Spring Job Fair on Tuesday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Conference Center of the college. Additional information about the 2013 Spring Job Fair can be found in the ‘Educational Lectures & Opportunities’ section.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.

Village of Park Forest

Village of Park Forest

Village Board Meetings

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, April 15 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%20Governmentand click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village Commission & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Advisory Group will meet the week of April 15:

  • Thursday, April 18 – Housing Authority

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

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Community Relations

Open Mic/Karaoke Night – Friday April 19

Park Forest Community Relations will host an Open Mic/Karaoke Night on Friday, April 19 at the Holiday Star Theatre, 340 Main Street, Park Forest, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Poets, musicians and singers of all ages will be welcome. The crowd will pick the winner and all guests attending the event will receive a discounted ticket stub for the weekend movie. Restrictions do apply. For additional information, call, 708-283-5621.

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, April 15 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, April 15 at 2 p.m. – Basic Internet — Learn to the basics of using the internet, including safe browsing and getting driving directions. Registration required.
  • Monday, April 15 at 6 p.m. – Live Acoustic Blues Jam — No Drum Kits; No Amps; No Egos, Bad Attitudes, or Monkey Business Allowed; Electric Piano provided. Players from all age groups invited. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.
  • Tuesday, April 16 at 10:30 a.m. – Movement & Me — Come in and enjoy time with your preschooler during this class combining movement with adventure and stories. Exercise is a key to living a healthy lifestyle. In this class parents and caregivers are able to move with their children while having a great time. (Ages 3-5). Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
  • Tuesday, April 16 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, April 16 at 7 p.m. – Facebook Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 10:30 a.m. — Art Club (Ages 2 – 5) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 4 p.m. – Internet Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 4 p.m. — Open Mic Night — Join us at the Park Forest Public Library for a month long celebration of Poetry and Rhythm! If you are a poet or musician and are between the ages of 9-14 we invite you to show skills on the kids zone stage. Those interested in performing are asked to register online or at the kids desk. All ages are welcome.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 5 p.m. – Art Club (Grades K – 3) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 6 p.m. – Art Club (Grades 4 – 6) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
  • Wednesday, April 17 at 7 p.m. – Reader’s Theater – Do you love dancing, acting, and singing? Would you like to put on a show for your friends and family to see? Join us every Wednesday for Reader’s Theater, where we will bring out the artist in you! Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
  • Thursday, April 18 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, April 18 at 5 p.m. – LEGO Club — Play and learn with LEGOs at the Park Forest Public Library! The creations the children make will be on display at the library. For boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th Grade. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31. The library is looking for donations of new or used LEGOs. Please contact the library if you would like to help with this project.
  • Friday, April 19 at 12 p.m. – Learn to Use Your Kindle Fire — Bring in your device to learn the basics of using it and accessing the library’s digital titles. Registration required.
  • Friday, April 19 at 3 p.m. – Wii Games — Meet up with your friends at the Park Forest Public Library for some gaming fun. The library will provide some games — YOU bring a friend. If you have a favorite game, bring it along to teach and share. Join us after school as we take a little time to have some fun! Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 3
  • Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m. – Microsoft Word II — After the introductory Microsoft Word I, learn more about the word processing program. Registration required.

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

Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, April 18

The Potpourri of Lectures series continues on Thursday, April 18 at 10: 30 a.m. with "Biology Behind Infected DNA/Damaged DNA" by Assistant Professor Erica Lannan.  The lecture will be held in the Library’s Ringering Room. Light refreshments will be served.

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.

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

Julie Fowlis: Music of the Scottish Isles – Saturday, April 20

On Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m., Julie Fowlis will bring the Music of the Scottish Isles to Park Forest. Julie Fowlis is no stranger to awards and distinctions, winning Gaelic Singer of the Year and Album of the Year at the Scots Trod Music Awards 2007 and nominated for the third year in a row as BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year — the first ever Scottish Gaelic singer to win this prestigious award when given the title in 2008. She is perhaps most proud of her award as Scotland’s Gaelic Ambassador bestowed by the Scottish Parliament in 2008, the first person to ever receive this honor. She is feature on the soundtrack of Disney’s PIXAR film, ‘Brave.’ Tickets are $28 and can be purchased in-person at the box office, or online at www.freedomhall.org. For additional information, call 708-747-0580.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

Park Forest House Museum — Step Back into a 1950s Easter – Through May 4

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 141 Forest Blvd, Park Forest, will have up its spring exhibit, "Step Back into a 1950s Easter," from March 6 through May 4, 2013. 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. Decorations include Easter die cuts, honeycomb rabbits and baskets, plastic and tin decorations, children’s books and Easter baskets with candy available in the 1950s. There is a very special display of hand blown, hand-painted eggs brought back from World War II. 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

‘Blooming Colors’ – Through April 30

‘Blooming Colors’ an exhibit showcasing artists Sandra Evers and Linda Curl will run through April 30th.   The exhibit is 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.

Ed Asner as FDR – Wednesday, April 17

On Wednesday, April 17 at 7 p.m., Seven-time Emmy Award winner Ed Asner stars in this solo performance drama. This powerful play follows Franklin D. Roosevelt as he reflects on his years in office. This one-man drama explores the life of one of America’s best-loved presidents and the events and decisions that shaped a nation. Tickets are $55, $45, $40, $35, and $15. To purchase tickets or for additional information call, 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

‘Transformation’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Anne Sexton’s ‘Transformations’ is coming to the center fort Performing Arts for two performances on April 24 and 25 at 8 p.m. ‘Transformations’ is a production of GSU’s students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Patrick Santoro, Assistant Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies, is directing the play. ‘Transformations’ tackles important social, cultural, and political issues relevant to today’s world. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 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 – Tickets Now on Sale

‘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/

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

Five Shows Coming in April to Visual Arts Gallery

As spring arrives, the Visual Arts Gallery at GSU is bustling with rousing, exciting exhibitions. The Gallery is offering four student shows in April as well as a stimulating multimedia show, “Sitting on Two Stools/You Cannot Sit on Two Stools,” that examines the meaning of home. “Sitting on Two Stools/You Cannot Sit on Two Stools” will take place through April 30 and features the work of Debbie James and Dejana Erish. Other shows at the Gallery in April are:

  • Through May 15 – Monique Perry will present her work on the Big Walls Gallery in GSU’s E-Lounge Corridor. Perry’s reception is planned for Thursday, April 18.
  • April 15 through 28 – Rick Lapidus’ art will be on display with a reception taking place on Thursday, April 18.
  • April 29 through May 6 – Jamilah Adebesin Mason, or Matteson, closes the individual student shows with her exhibition. Her reception is scheduled for Thursday, May 2.

For additional information and Gallery hours, call 708-534-4021 or visit www.govst.edu/gallery.

Matteson Public Library, 801 S. School Avenue, Matteson

Celebrating National Library Week – April 14 – 20

This week, the Matteson Public Library joins libraries in schools, campuses and communities nationwide in celebrating National Library Week, a time to highlight the value of libraries, librarians and library workers. The Matteson Library will be serving coffee and donuts Monday through Friday. In addition:

  • See demonstrations of the library’s online learning resources and databases.
  • Check out a book and receive a ticket for a chance to win our NLW’s gift basket.
  • Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks discussion on April 15 at 7 p.m.
  • Celebrate Pigeon Birthday Party in Youth Services on Wednesday, April 17.
  • Participate in Teen Literature Day on Thursday, April 18.
  • Celebrate our Patron Appreciation Day with a piece of cake on Wednesday, April 17.
  • Take Yoga for Your Health Class on Thursdays at 7 p.m.
  • Attend Computer Basics tutoring class on Friday mornings beginning at 9:30 a.m.
  • See a demonstration of our social media presence on Facebook and Pinterest.

For additional information, call 708-748-4431 or visit www.mattesonpubliclibrary.org. The Matteson Public Library’s hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

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

Sertoma Centre’s BIG Event – Saturday, April 27

The Walk-Ins will perform their eclectic mix of Motown, classic rock, hits from the 80’s and more at Sertoma Centre’s BIG Event to be held on Saturday, April 27 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park. The Walk-Ins are a group of educators from the Chicago Heights School system and talented musicians who are eager to perform at the BIG Event this year. In addition, the hottest firehouse cook-off will take place when area firehouse cooks will prepare chicken, ribs, chili and ethnic dishes for trophies and prizes. Dave Fleming the magician and juggler will perform on stage at 6:30 p.m. Boomer from the Windy City Thunderbolts will stop by and there will be children’s face painting, games and a video gaming station. Tickets are $10 for adults which include 10 food sample tickets, children 12 and under are $5 and children under 3 are free. Proceeds from the event benefit the more than 700 individuals with disabilities served by Sertoma Centre. For additional information, call 708-730-6206 or visit www.sertomacentre.org.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

Rediscovering Chicago Heights ‘Community Photo-Voice Project’ – Opens April 19

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 April 19 through May11. 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.

National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

Reading of ‘My Short, Crazy Vietnam War’ – Saturday, April 20

On Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m., the NVAM will host a reading of an artist’s unusual illustrated memoir, ‘Boocoo Dinky Dow: My Short, Crazy Vietnam War.’ Julie Titone will read from the book, which she co-authored with the late Grady Myers, at the museum. The free event will include the display of Myer’s drawings from the museum’s permanent collection. Guest reader Bill Crist, also a Vietnam veteran, will join Titone in reading excerpts from the book. Examples of the drawings and an excerpt from the book are online at www.shortcrazyvietnam.com. For additional information about the museum, visit: www.nvam.org.

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

Criminal Justice and Public Administration Career and Internship Fair – Thursday, April 18

GSU’s Office of Career Services is sponsoring an employment and internship fair for people interested in positions in criminal justice, public administration, and related fields. The Criminal Justice and Public Administration Internship and Career Fair will be held on Thursday, April 18 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Hall of Governors. Current students, alumni, and community members are invited to attend. This is an opportunity to match jobs and internship positions with qualified personnel. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-235-3974.

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

2013 Spring Job Fair – Tuesday, April 16

PSC invites job seekers to attend the 2013 Spring Job Fair on Tuesday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Conference Center of the college. The fair is co-sponsored with UPS, the Chicagoland Regional College Program, and the PSC Illinois workNet Center. The job fair is free and open to the public. Company representatives will recruit for both full and part-time positions. Companies scheduled to participate include the U.S. Secret Service, Bulkmatic, Homewood Police Department, Bimba Manufacturing Company, Crawford Broadcasting, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago, and Franciscan Alliance. A complete, up-to-date listing of companies and the positions they are hiring for is available at www.prairiestate.edu/jobfair.  Attendees are required to dress in professional business attire and encouraged to bring plenty of resumes. Pre-registration for the job fair is encouraged, and is available at www.prairiestate.edu/jobfair. For additional information, contact Norfleet at 708-709-3755 or Ramien Manson, career advisor at 708-709-3922, or e-mail Career Development Services at [email protected].

‘Week of the Young Child Conference: The Child and the Curriculum’ – Saturday, April 20

PSC is hosting the ‘Week of the Young Child Conference: The Child and the Curriculum’ on Saturday, April 20 from 8 a.m. to 12: 35 p.m. in the Conference Center of the PSC main campus. Keynote speaker Dr. Barbara Biles, an adjunct professor at Waubonsee Community College, will present “It’s All About Relationship – The Child and the Curriculum.” The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the world’s largest early childhood education association. The purpose is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families, and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs. Registration is $10 and includes breakfast and a choice of five breakout sessions. Early childhood educators can earn 4.0 DCFS In-Service/Registry Training Hours. Elementary school teachers can earn 4.0 CPDUs. There is an additional $10 processing fee for CPDUs. For additional information or to register, contact Carina Lowe at 708-709-7957 or e-mail [email protected].

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 Business & Career Institute, 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest

Workshop for Healthcare Providers and Office/Practice Managers – Wednesday, April 17

The South Suburban College Business & Career Institute (BCI) presents a special workshop event on Wednesday, April 17 featuring two sessions geared for healthcare providers and office/practice managers. Registration and networking will take place at 8:45 a.m. with workshops and discussion to follow from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the University & College Center (UCC) in Oak Forest. Brian A. Thompson, Principal Consultant for Black & Essington Solutions and Adjunct Professor of Economics and Management will present the first session, ‘Seven Trends Impacting the Business of Healthcare.’ This session takes a big picture view to identify growth opportunities in the rapidly changing healthcare industry. The second session will feature Rebecca R. Palumbo, Principal/Creative Director for Rollins Palumbo Creative, presenting ‘Give Your Healthcare Marketing a Shot in the Arm.’ IN this session, attendees will learn how to overcome challenges and craft an attractive message that is clear, on-point and compelling, while applying those traditional marketing methods in a whole new way. The cost of the event and continental breakfast is $20 per person, or $15 per person if three or more individuals from the same company attend. For additional information or to register, please call 708-596-2000, extension 2346 or e-mail [email protected].

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Leonard Robinson Family Services Center, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park. Participants will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet skills, résumé building skills, and more. Classes are open only to residents of Rich Township. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.

Online Educational Resources

Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.

Top U.S. Universities

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

Healthy Living

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

Free Psychotherapy Available from GSU’s Psychology Program

GSU’s Psychology Department is offering free psychotherapy services to members of the community. Conversations with a psychotherapist can help people cope with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transition problems. Confidential, one-on-one sessions are held with a GSU graduate student in psychology under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Individuals and couples, 18 years and older, are eligible. All sessions are conducted in Matteson, IL. The number of sessions is determined by the client’s needs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-235-2841.

Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest

CPR Classes

CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: http://pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html

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

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Community Nutrition Network (CNN) site located inside the Rich Township’s Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 11 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private program available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.

Green Events

Park Forest Environment Commission

‘Basic Canning’ Presentation – Limited Seating — Tickets Now on Sale

Based on numerous requests from members of the community, the Park Forest Environment Commission has arranged for Chef Kate Bradley to give a presentation on ‘Basic Canning’ on Monday, April 29 at 7 p.m. at the Wetlands Discovery Center, 30 N. Orchard, Park Forest (located on the west side of the Park Forest Aqua Center). Kate will provide an overview of basic canning techniques and familiarize participants with the equipment needed to successfully can the fruits of your summer gardens for enjoyment in the cold winter months. Participants will also enjoy light refreshments canned from Kate’s kitchen. Seating for this event is limited and tickets are selling quickly. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or on the night of the event if any remain. Proceeds from the event will be used for the benefit of the Park Forest Community Garden project. To purchase advance tickets or for additional information, call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991 or e-mail [email protected].

NOTE: The location of this event has been changed from Park Forest Village Hall to the Wetlands Discovery Center.

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].

Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

‘Emerald Ash Borer & Our Ash Trees’ – Saturday, April 20

Earth Day at Thorn Creek will celebrate ash trees on Saturday, April 20 from noon to 4 p.m. What kinds of ash trees grow in Thorn Creek Woods and on your street? How can you tell the differences? Where can you find them in the woods? The emerald ash borer is a small metallic green beetle native to Asia that feeds exclusively on ash trees. Learn how to identify the beetle and how to protect our ash trees. Other events will include:

  • 12:30 p.m. — Emerald Ash Borer Skit
  • 1 p.m. – Andrea Dierich, Illinois Forest Pest Outreach Coordinator at the Morton Arboretum will share a presentation on EAB and Ash Trees.

Following the presentation, Jon Mendelson will lead a hike in the woods. Participants can also view specimens of the insect and the tunnels its larvae make in the bark of ash trees. Exhibits on ash trees and the emerald ash borer are courtesy of the University of Illinois Extension and the Morton Arboretum. There will be lots of fun for everyone including a raffle, refreshments, face painting and Emerald Ash Borer mask making throughout the day. The program is free and open to all ages. For additional information, call 708-747-6320 or e-mail [email protected].

‘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.

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.

This & That

Village of Park Forest

Park Forest Vehicle Stickers and Animal Tags Now on Sale

Vehicle stickers for the 2013-2014 year are now on sale. Vehicle stickers must be purchased and displayed on all vehicles registered in Park Forest by April 30, 2013. Vehicle stickers can be purchased at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, the Park Forest Currency Exchange, 98 S. Orchard Drive, and the Richton Park Currency Exchange, 2710 Sauk Trail. Stickers can now be purchased through the internet by clicking here. Scroll to Park Forest and follow the instructions. Note that a $3 convenience fee will be added to your transaction. Your sticker will be mailed to you.

If you are eligible for a discount, you will need to come to Village Hall to purchase your sticker.

For more information on vehicle sticker sales, including details on late fees, click here.

Animal tags are also on sale and are available at Village Hall only. Animal tags should also be purchased and made visible on your pets before April 30, 2013. Please note: a current rabies vaccination certificate must be presented with your animal tag registration form.

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, April 19

Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, April 19 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.

Garden Club of Park Forest

"A Gardener’s Cookbook"

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

Rotary Club of Park Forest

The Rotary Club of Park Forest urges you to purchase a Golden Opportunities 2012 book to help support its youth activities. Books are only $25 and are now available for purchase at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Blvd.

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

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

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

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

Greening of Park Forest

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

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

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

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

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

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

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

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

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

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

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

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

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

Sources: Park Forest Winter-Spring 2013 Recreation Programs & More Brochure, Park Forest ‘Discover’ magazine, Rich Township Report, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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