Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—August 30, 2010. School is back in session, which means school buses and school children are prominent on our streets. Here are a few safety tips from the Park Forest Police Department to keep in mind when you are out and about around town:
- When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch for children walking or bicycling to school.
- When driving in neighborhoods with school zones, watch out for young people who may be focused on getting to school but may not be thinking about safety.
- Slow down. Watch for children playing and gathering near bus stops or walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks.
- Be alert. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
- Learn and obey the school bus laws.
- It is unlawful to pass a stopped school bus when its stop signal arm is extended.
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 Meetings
Village Board Meeting
The Village Board is scheduled to hold a Saturday morning rules meeting on Saturday, September 4 at 10 a.m. at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend. Village Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site at www.villageofparkforest.com.
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch
Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards
The following Village Commissions and Advisory Groups will meet this week:
- Economic Development Advisory Group – Wednesday, September 1 at 7:00 p.m.
- Senior Citizens Advisory Commission – Thursday, September 2 at 1:00 p.m.
- Environment Commission – Thursday, September 2 at 7:00 p.m.
All meetings are held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.
3rd Annual Running of the Park Forest Scenic 5 and More
This Labor Day, plan on joining the fun in Park Forest during the 2nd Annual running of the Park Forest Scenic 5 and More. This race has been reconstituted onto a 5 mile course and augmented with:
- 5K nature walk around the Central Park Wetlands, and
- A variety of other activities at the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard, Park Forest.
- Events begin on Monday, September 6 at 8 a.m. and include:
- Beautiful Scenic 5 Mile Route (USATF #IL08085 certified course)
- Musical Entertainment
- Children’s Fun Run
- CARA Runners’ Choice Series
- Free T-shirt and refreshments
- Prize money and awards
- Post race Food Fest/Pool Party (bring the family)
- Shower facilities
- Marks and splits every mile
- Aid stations at the Start, Finish and along the route
- Marshals along the route
Check out the course and invite your friends to come out and cheer on the runners and bikers or better yet join in the fun and fitness of the event. For additional information, visit the Village’s website at: www.villageofparkforest.com
‘Green’ Events
Thorn Creek Audubon Society
Annual Birdseed Sale – Orders Accepted Until October 1
Thorn Creek Audubon Society’s annual birdseed sale is now underway. Orders will be accepted until October 1. Pickup date is Saturday, October 23 at the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard Dr., Park Forest. Prices are especially good this year. Seed will include black oil sunflower seed, safflower seed, nyjer (thistle) seed and a variety of seed blends. Also for sale are pine bluebird boxes and suet cakes. To obtain an order form, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847 or visit: www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org. Sale proceeds help fund conservation and environmental education for children and adults.
Monthly Meeting – Wednesday, September 1
Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS) will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 1 at 7 p.m. at the Wetlands Discovery Center at Park Forest’s Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard. The September program will be presented by TCAS president, Dick Riner. Come and follow the planning and implementation of Kim Ramirez’s TogetherGreen grant for Bartel Grassland. Keith Nowakowski, head designer and Landscape Architect for Clarence Davids & Company, designed an Interpretive Garden to be located by the parking lot and kiosk at Bartel Grassland. The meeting is open to all.
Field Trip to Kankakee Sands, Indiana – Saturday, September 4
On Saturday, September 4 at 8 a.m., TCAS will be looking for many native plants in this restored prairie of more than 7,000 acres, as well as butterflies and their caterpillars. Some native sparrows and hawks may be spotted. Participants should meet at the headquarters, 3294 North U.S. 41, Morocco, IN. Look for a small white building with a big green oak leaf on the west side of 41 (about half an hour south of Cedar Lake). Please notify Al Thomas at 708-957-9847 if you plan to attend so you can be notified in case of a change of plans. For additional information, or if you need a ride or want to car pool, or learn how to become a member of TCAS, call Al Thomas or visit TCAS website at: www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org.
Park Forest Environment Commission
Rain Barrel Sale – Saturday, September 4
On Saturday, September 4, the Park Forest Environment will hold its monthly rain barrel sale at the Farmers Market. Rain barrels are priced at $55 (55 gallon barrel) and $45 (30 gallon barrel). Rain barrel accessories such as bases, diverter attachments and netting will also be available for sale. Saturday’s sale is limited to the colors on-hand. If you wish to order a specific color, please stop by the Recreation & Parks Department at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive to order the color of your choice and they will be available for pick-up on September 4. Tumbling composters will also be available for sale for $110.
‘A Chemical Reaction’ Film Screening – Save the Date
On Saturday, October 2 beginning at 1 p.m., the Park Forest Environment Commission, Thorn Creek Audubon Society and Governors State University (GSU) will host a screening of the documentary movie, ‘A Chemical Reaction’ in GSU’s Sherman Hall, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL. ‘A Chemical Reaction’ explores how the elimination of lawn pesticides transformed one community in Canada, and how their actions impacted the chemical lawn care industry in North America. Following the screening, there will be a discussion by industry experts about activity occurring in the State of Illinois to reduce the amount of chemical pesticides being used by local governments and communities. Look for additional information in eNews Park Forest about this event shortly.
Arts & Entertainment
Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:
| Wednesday, September 1 | 10:30 a.m. | Lap Sit Story Times |
| Wednesday, September 1 | 10:30 a.m. | Toddler Art |
For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
“Icons” – Through October
“Icons” exhibit at Salon Artists Gallery runs through October. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and 12 Noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, call Pat Moore or Bev Szaton at 708-833-5108.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 267 Artists Walk, Park Forest
“Fabulously Focused” Exhibit Now Open
“Fabulously Focused,” an exhibit of current works of Tall Grass Gallery Artists is currently open. Eleven new artists have successfully completed the jurying process and were invited to participate in the exhibit. “Whirling Ocean Life,” an abstract watercolor by Charlotte Sasser will be raffled off during the run of the exhibit. The event if free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
Park Forest Historical Society
Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard (Corner of Forest & Fir)
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum is in an original rental townhome, built in 1947-1949 by American Community Builders. The museum provides a nostalgic trip down Memory Lane for anyone who lived in the 1950s or 1960s, or for those interested in that period. Visitors are encouraged to open drawers, cupboard and closets to discover period treasures inside. Contents of the house, furnished as though a young veteran and his family of small children occupy it, include dolls, toys, dollhouses, books, dishes, serving pieces, furniture and clothing from the period. When is the last time you said, "Hello," to Howdy Doody?
The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Group tours are by appointment. Call 708-748-3731.
Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway
All Star Night of Blues – Tickets Now on Sale
On Saturday, September 11 at 7:30 p.m., Electro Glide Records presents an All-Star Blues Jam that you won’t want to miss. Hosted by Electro Glide Records guitar sensation, Jimmy Warren, with his "rockin style" of blues, the evening includes performances by:
- Lonnie Brooks, a blues legend recently inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame who is known for his "Louisiana Swamp Style";
- Larry McCray, "The Delta Hurricane," known for his electrifying guitar solos and powerful vocals; and
- Chris Beard, a bluesman that is known both for his "down-and-dirty" traditional blues and his showmanship.
Before the Jimmy Warren Band and the all-star cast takes the stage, The Catch Blues Band and Big Dog Mercer will warm up the crowd with a few songs to pave the way for an unbelievable evening of blues at its best.
Tickets prices are $20, $25, and $30. To purchase tickets, visit: http://www.centertickets.net.
Tickets Now on Sale for 2010-2011 Season
The Center for Performing Arts is now selling series tickets for the 2010-2011 Season. Artists range from musical performers, ballet, plays, cabaret acts and events especially for children. Special offers are provided for those purchasing 3, 4, or 5 shows in the series including 15% off regular ticket prices, priority seating, ticket exchange privileges and dining discounts. Treat yourself to this amazing 16th Season at the Center and give back to your community at the same time. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
“Figures in Abstraction” – Opens Tuesday, August 31
The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU will present “Figures in Abstraction,” an exhibit of oil paintings by Karen Keorpes of Orland Park. This solo exhibit will open on Tuesday, August 31 and will run through September 8. An opening reception celebrating the art and the artist will be held on Friday, September 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Hours at the Visual Arts Gallery are Monday and Tuesday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Gallery is located adjacent to GSU’s E Lounge. For more information, call 708-534-4017 or visit: www.gsuvisualartsgallery.blogspot.com.
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU
Neil Goodman Sculptures On Display Through October
Five dramatic sculptures by Chicago artist Neil Goodman are currently on display at GSU’s Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. Goodman’s sculptures have been commissioned and collected by museums, corporations, convention centers, parks, synagogues, universities and private residences. For more information about Neil Goodman in the Park call 708-534-4486 or visit [email protected].
CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead
Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, September 2
CAUTION will be playing every Thursday night at Harte’s Saloon, 9858 S. Artesian. If you are a fan of the Grateful Dead, Phish and great musical jams, check out this band. For more information, call Harte’s Saloon at 708-424-2618.
“Chicago Heights”– Wednesday, September 1
“Chicago Heights,” a film made by students and faculty in the Master of Fine Arts program at Governors State University (GSU) will make its Chicago debut at the 2010 Black Harvest Film Festival at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State Street, Chicago. Screenings of the film will take place on Wednesday, September 1 at 8:15 p.m. “Chicago Heights” is an award-winning, short, experimental, black and white feature film made with a $1,000 budget for food, equipment on loan from GSU and during the free time of the all volunteer cast and crew. Producer-cinematographer Sanghoon Lee, assistant professor at GSU, will participate in the audience discussion on Wednesday. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for students and are available through Ticketmaster. For additional information about the film visit www.923Films.com
Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights, IL
The Artists’ Marks – Through September 24
The Artists’ Marks is a survey of the drawings, paintings and prints of Richard Benoit, Akiko Matsuoka-Thorson, and Gary Thomas, three artists who are often identified by their own personal technical processes of transforming a blank work surface into a meaningful image. The Artists’ Marks gives viewers an opportunity to gain insight into the unique mark-making processes of these three artists. The exhibit will run through September 24. A reception for the Artists’ Marks will be held on Friday, September 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. when the artists will be present to discuss their work and their processes. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org.
“Objects of Affection” – Through September 24
Objects of Affection,” a juried exhibition dedicated to the study, portrayal, and artistic interpretation of arranged objects will run through September 24. The opening reception will be held on Friday, September 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
The Literacy Zone – Reading Tutoring
GSU’s Graduate Program in Reading is sponsoring the Literacy Zone, a reading tutorial program for students in grades 6 through high school on Tuesdays, from September 14 through November 30 from 4:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This one-to-one program brings students experiencing reading problems together with teachers who have the skills to help them. Students meet on the GSU campus with certified, experienced teachers enrolled in the Master of Arts Reading Program at GSU. Enrollment is limited and based on the number of tutors. Students will be accepted in the order in which the completed application and the $100 registration fee received. A refund of $30 is made to the parents/guardians of those students who complete the program with good attendance and return all Literacy Zone materials. Snacks are provided at each session. Transportation is not provided. For more information, call 708-534-4129 or e-mail [email protected].
Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest
Roots and Shoots – Saturday, September 4
On Saturday, September 4 from 10 a.m. to Noon, children ages 5 through 10 are encouraged to explore the environment, their community and the world around them in this monthly program. There is a fee of $5 per child per month. For more information, call 708-747-6320.
Free Basic Computer Classes for Rich Township Residents
Rich Township is offering free basic computer skills 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, resume building skills, and more. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.
Shop Locally
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.
Park Forest Farmers Market
The Park Forest’s Farmers Market will be held each Saturday through October from 7 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Fresh garden plants and produce, bakery goods, gourmet cheeses, herbs and eggs will be available for sale. Local businesses will also be on hand with a variety of artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more. Meet your friends at the Farmers Market for breakfast or lunch and shop locally.
During the Farmers Market, local civic groups can give demonstrations, hold fundraisers or other events at no charge but must register in advance. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit www.pfhealth.net.
Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Farm Fresh Market –Thursday, September 2
Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are coming to GSU at its first-ever outdoor farmers market on Thursday, September 2 at the south end of Parking Lot D. Hours are 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. The Farmers Market will be held on Thursdays through September.
Healthy Living
Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive (lower level)
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.
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/counselinglab.
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.
Greening of Park Forest
B3 Bottles, Park Forest
The United Sates leads in consuming bottled water, drinking 26 billion liters a year (that’s only one, 8 ounce glass per day). It is estimated that Americans go through 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour with 86% of the plastic bottles used never getting recycled. B3 Bottles, a local Park Forest business, has a solution to this problem. B3’s stainless steel bottles can be filled with Park Forest’s award winning water or other hot/cold beverages of your choice, and then cleaned and re-used for a lifetime. To learn more about B3 Bottles and pricing information, call Laura Fitzgerald at 708-748-0934.
Sertoma Centre, Inc., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip, IL
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.
Go Green with a Free Tote Bag
The Village of Park Forest encourages residents to visit Village Hall to pick up an environmentally friendly canvas bag that can be used for your day-to-day shopping needs. These bags are free while supplies last with only two expectations: 1) that residents have a valid email address so that future environmentally conscious concepts can be shared by the Village’s Environment Commission; and 2) that bags are limited to one per household. For more information on this program, visit the Village Manager’s Office on the second floor of Village Hall of call 708-748-1129.
This & That
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Secretary of State Services – Tuesday, August 31
The Secretary of State’s Mobile Service Unit will be at GSU on Tuesday, August 31 from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Hall of Governors. Services available include driver’s license renewal, replacement and corrections; State ID card renewal, replacement, and corrections; vehicle sticker sales; passenger and b-truck license plates; vehicle title and registration; parking placards for persons with disabilities; and organ/tissue donor information. In addition, vision tests and the written driver’s license exam can be taken. No driving tests will be given. The services are available to all qualified Illinois residents. State law allows driver’s license renewal up to one year in advance. Proper identification is required for new and duplicate diver’s licenses and state ID cards. Acceptable forms of payment include personal checks, cash, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit and debit cards. For additional information, visit: www.cyberdriveillinois.com.
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.
Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest
Connect Café – Thursday, September 2
On Thursday, September 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., the Connect Café is a place for the community to hang out, have a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate, listen to music, talk, play a game of chess, or just relax. Kid friendly, also for Mom’s and Dad’s. This event will be held every Thursday. For more information, call 708-748-1995 or visit www.celebration4.org.
Rainbow Café
Monthly Meeting – Saturday, September 4
The Rainbow Café is an opportunity for single or partnered gays, lesbians, bisexuals or other sexual minorities, and their allies, over age 18 to meet one another and socialize in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Those attending are encouraged to bring some non-alcoholic drinks and a dessert or snack to pass, or bring a financial donation. However, neither is mandatory.
The Rainbow Café is held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the 1st Saturday of each month at the Unitarian-Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore
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.
Sources: Park Forest 2010 Summer Recreation Programs & More; Park Forest Winter/Spring 2010 Recreation Programs & More, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Center for Performing Arts, Union Street Gallery, Park Forest Rotary Club, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Theatre Center, CAUTION, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Tall Grass Arts Association, Thorn Creek Audubon Society websites.
