In and Around Park Forest Week of February 27, 2012

Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)- February 27, 2012. The 2012-2013 Park Forest vehicle stickers go on sale beginning Thursday, March 1. Vehicle stickers must be displayed, prior to May 1, on every vehicle that is registered with the State of Illinois with a Park Forest address, even if that vehicle is not located in Park Forest.

Also taking place this week is the final registration for Park Forest Baseball’s 2012 Season which will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive from noon to 4 p.m. on and Saturday, March 3.

For additional information on purchasing a Park Forest vehicle sticker, or registration for Park Forest Baseball’s 2012 Season, see the ‘This & That’ 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.

General Primary Election 2012

Early Voting for General Primary Election – Available Through Thursday, March 15

The General Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, March 20, 2012.  Polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Early voting is available Monday, February 27 through Thursday, March 15 to registered voters in both the Cook and Will County sections of Park Forest.

Cook County

Early voting for Cook County residents will be conducted at the Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, in the Board Conference Room or at any of the County’s early voting sites.  Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.  For a complete list of voting locations, please see the Cook County website at www.cookcountyclerk.com.

Will County

Early voting for Will County residents will be conducted on the second floor of the Park Forest Village Hall, in the Administration offices.   Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For detailed information regarding Will County early voting options, or to request an absentee ballot by mail, visit the Will County Clerk’s website at www.thewillcountyclerk.com  or call either (815) 740-4632 or (815) 774-6367.

State law requires that a registered voter show valid photo identification before voting early. Voters casting an early ballot must display a current driver’s license, a state-issued ID card or another government-issued ID with a photograph.  For questions, contact Sandi Black at [email protected] or by phone at 708-748-1112.

Village of Park Forest

Village Board Meeting

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, February 27 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The Board of Trustees will also hold a Saturday Morning Rules meeting on March 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.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Commissions will meet the week of February 27:

• Thursday, March 1 at 1 p.m. – Senior Commission
• Thursday, March 1 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission

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

Job Fair – Tuesday, March 6

The National Congress of Black Women, Metro Chicago Chapter (NCBW-MCC) and the Village of Park Forest will host a Job Fair on Tuesday, March 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 300 Victory Drive in Park Forest. Participants should bring at least 40 resumes and dress to impress – no jeans or gym shoes. For additional information, call 708-317-8656, email [email protected] or visit www.villageofparkforest.org.

Black History Month Events

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

‘Underground Railroad Quilts’ – Saturday, March 3

On Saturday, March 3 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Dr. Clarice Boswell will present ‘Underground Railroad Quilts’ at the Library. Dr. Boswell’s presentation includes a variety of her family’s vintage Civil War era quilts. She also tells stories of her family which are detailed in her historical fiction book, Lizzie’s Story: A Slave Family’s Journey to Freedom.  The presentation is recommended for those ages 8 and up. For additional information, call 708-748-3731.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

‘African Expressions’ Art and Artifacts of Africa – Through March 18

‘African Expressions,’ an exhibit featuring arts and artifacts of Africa, will run through March 18. The exhibit will feature Neolithic artifacts through 20th century sculpture, metal work, figurative wood sculpture and prestige items. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.

Rich Township, Village of Richton Park, and MuzicNet

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Musical Concert – Save the Date

On Saturday, March 24 beginning at 6 p.m. at Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest, a musical concert will take place remembering Dr. martin Luther King, Jr. The concert will feature District 227 Alumnus Artist Reunion Valerie Nicholson Marla Dillard-Lemons, Dana Devine from WGCI Radio Station, pianist Chris Allison, Alan Franklin and MuzicNet Trio, Phillip Crews and the Rich Central Jazz Band. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Park Forest Village Hall Manager’s Office, 350 Victory Drive. For additional information, call 708-748-6722 or 708-261-5708.

Green Events

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

Woods Music: A Benefit for Thorn Creek Woods –Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for ‘Woods Music’ a benefit concert for Thorn Creek Woods that will be held on Friday, March 23 at 7 p.m. As spring begins, come celebrate the woods with music. With generous donation of the musicians’ time and expertise all proceeds will benefit Thorn Creek nature Preserve. Refreshments will be available. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 10 and under. Advance purchase of tickets is strongly recommended. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-534-8499.

Village of Park Forest

Park Forest Community Garden Project

The Park Forest Environment Commission is facilitating the development of community gardens throughout Park Forest in support of the Village’s Sustainability Plan. While the gardening will be a volunteer effort by Park Forest residents, churches, civic, community groups, and businesses, there will be costs involved in testing the soil, building raised beds when necessary, and constructing rain harvesting systems. For those that choose to garden on one of the Village’s vacant lots, the Village will contribute $370 per community garden to defray some of these costs (this amount represents the cost to mow one lot on an annual basis). The Environment Commission is also be appealing to the business community to contribute towards the cost of creating this community gardening project. If you are interested in making a contribution or learning more about the community garden project, please call Rosemary Piser, a member of the Environment Commission, at (708) 747-1991.

Village of Park Forest Sustainability Plan

In April of this year, the Village of Park Forest was selected by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to participate in a local technical assistance program for the purpose of creating a Sustainability Plan.  CMAP received a three-year $4.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to implement their adopted regional comprehensive plan, GO TO 2040.  They are using this grant to fund around 60 local planning projects throughout the Chicago Metropolitan Area that will be instrumental in the implementation of the GO TO 2040 Plan.  CMAP staff assistance is being provided to prepare the Sustainability Plan at no cost to the Village. A Sustainability Assessment has been developed over the past several months. The next step in developing the Sustainability Plan is to develop strategies to help implement the Vision and Goals contained in the Sustainability Assessment.  The public’s input is needed to ensure that this step in the Plan reflects the community’s desires for a sustainable community.  To that end, all residents and Park Forest business owners are invited to participate in a public assessment tool.  This survey will take should take no more than 15 minutes to complete, unless you have a lot of input to share. Please use the following link to access the assessment tool – http://parkforest.metroquest.com/

Share this information with your Park Forest friends and family.  This assessment will be available through March 2012. If you have any questions about the Sustainability Plan process, please feel free to contact Hildy Kingma, AICP, Director of Economic

Development and Planning.  Hildy can be reached at [email protected] or 708-283-5622.
To learn more about the Sustainability Plan Project, visit: http://www.villageofparkforest.com.

Public Meeting on Draft Sustainability Plan – Save the Date

The next public meeting on the draft Sustainability Plan will take place on Tuesday, March 20 at Dining on the Green on the Green 349 Main Street, Park Forest, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

• Monday, February 27 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Monday, February 27 at 12 p.m. – Friends Books Discussion: ‘The Things They Carried’ by Tim O’Brien.
• Tuesday, February 28 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
• Tuesday, February 28 at 7 p.m. – E-Reader Demonstration – Drop in and learn about accessing these new digital library titles. We’ll also have a sampling of E-readers for you to look at, and an experienced user here to help you find your way through many of the features on each reader.
• Tuesday, February 28 at 7 p.m. – Pajama Storytime – For all story lovers Ages 2 thru 12. Drop-ins welcome.
• Wednesday, February 29 at 1 p.m. – Opera in the Afternoon: ‘La Traviata’
• Wednesday, February 29 at 3:30 p.m. – Breaktime! Ages 6 & Up. Stop in to see what we’re doing — crafts, games, more.
• Thursday, March 1 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit – Ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver. Registration please.
• Thursday, March 1 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art – Ages 2-4 with caregiver. Registration please.
• Friday, March 2 at 2 p.m. – Learn to use Your Kindle Fire – An introduction to using an Amazon Kindle. Please note: you must bring your own device for this class.
• Friday, March 2 at 4 p.m. – Teen Time – Ages 12 & up. Wii games, classic TV reruns, board game competitions, teen crafts.

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

Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, March 1

On Thursday, March 1 at 10:30 a.m., the Potpourri of Lectures series will feature “Growing Opportunities at Rich East High School” by Mark Kramer, Nancy Pawluk, and Sandy Spann in the Library’s Ringering Room.

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

Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago – Saturday, March 3

The Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago will perform at Freedom Hall on Saturday, March 3 at 8 p.m. When the drum calls, the soul responds, Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago celebrates the human spirit through traditional and social African and African American dance. Muntu strives to create an atmosphere of communal participation while inspiring the audience to join in the celebration. The concert includes work from the Muntu’s repertoire of West African and contemporary dance, music and song designed to invigorate, enliven and celebrate the collective human spirit. Tickets are $24 and can be purchased online at www.freedomhall.org, call 708-747-0580 to purchase with credit card or in-person at the Box Office. Box office hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

‘The Dooley Brothers’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Freedom Hall’s Senior Series will continue on Tuesday, March 6 at 11 a.m. when the Dooley Brothers take the stage. For twenty-five years the brothers have entertained many at gatherings in virtually every setting. The four brothers have been singing and playing together all of their lives, and have absorbed into their music incredibly diverse styles including Benny Goodman, the Mills Brothers, Debussy and Ravel, Antonio Carolos Jobim, Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Coaster, the Kingston Trio, topped off with a wealth of Irish music. Tickets are $9 and can be purchased online at www.freedomhall.org, call 708-747-0580 to purchase with credit card or in-person at the Box Office. Box office hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walkway, Park Forest

‘The Cocktail Hour’ by A. R. Gurney –Opens Friday, March 2

Tickets are now on sale for A.R. Gurney’s ‘The Cocktail Hour’ which will open on March 2 and run through March 18. This modern comedy of manners was described by the New York Times as “an examination of an over privileged family that fights domestic battles while downing drinks.” A successful playwright must endure an evening with his wealthy parents as he breaks the news to them that they are the subject of his new play. It’s another sparkling gem from one of America’s most prolific playwrights. 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.

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

‘Bridging the Great Divide’ – Saturday, March 3

‘Bridging the Great Divide’ will be presented on Saturday, March 3 at 8 p.m. at Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Avenue, Frankfort. Christopher Zimmerman, current Music Director of the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, will join the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra for a program that divides the orchestra in two wonderful works. Elgar’s symphonic poem ‘Introduction and Allegro for Strings’ resurrects the Baroque concerto grosso for string orchestra. Stravinsky’s ‘Symphonies of Winds’ is a colorful musical portrait and homage to Claude Debussy performed by an ensemble of brass and woodwind instruments. Brahms’ ‘Symphony No. 1.’ often called "Beethoven’s 10th." reunites the orchestra in a true masterpiece for the ages. Come hear two different personalities of the orchestra face off in the whirlwind of aural delight. Tickets are priced at $30, $40 and $50 and can be purchased at:  https://secure.ticketsage.net. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

"Step Back into a 1950s Valentine’s Day" – Exhibit Through February at 1950s House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard, is decorated throughout February with vintage valentines and decorations. One room represents a classroom in the first school, Forest Boulevard School, which was set up in a row of townhomes in 1949. In February, the classroom is decorated for a 1950s Valentine’s Day party with crepe paper candy baskets, and construction paper heart-shaped valentine “mailboxes” on each desk. Red honeycomb, puffy hearts and vintage valentines are on display throughout the house.  The museum is open in February Wednesdays 11-2; Saturdays 10-3. Donation is Adults-$5; 12 & under free. The tour is free with the purchase of a Marshall Field’s Park Forest Store brick at 1 for $15; 2 for $25. Convenient, free, street parking available right outside the front door.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department

March Senior Trip – Chicago Flower & Garden Show at Navy Pier – Registration Deadline Monday, March 5

On Wednesday, March 14, you can experience the 2012 Chicago Flower and Garden show. This event will have over 25 garden displays keeping with the 2012 theme, “Hort Couture.”  There will be over 100 vendors of gardening, landscaping and horticulture products and services, along with educational seminars, interactive gardening workshops, cooking demonstrations and more!  You will also have time to explore Navy Pier’s wide variety of shops and the Stained Glass Windows Museum.  Lunch is on your own, and there are plenty of restaurants to select from with food ranging from casual cuisine to fine dining.  Coach bus will depart from Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, at 9 a.m. and return at approximately 4 p.m. Fee is $38 which includes round-trip coach bus and admission to the Flower Show.

Register in person at the Recreation & Parks Department, Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, or register over the phone with a credit card by calling 708-748-2005. Mention Code: 148580-1 when registering.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

‘African Expressions’ Art and Artifacts of Africa – Through March 18

‘African Expressions,’ an exhibit featuring arts and artifacts of Africa, will run through March 18. The exhibit will feature Neolithic artifacts through 20th century sculpture, metal work, figurative wood sculpture and prestige items. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.

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

2011 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibition – Through Saturday, March 3

GSU is hosting the 2011 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibition, through March 3, in the Visual Arts Gallery. Artwork includes painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and ceramics. The exhibition celebrates the creative work of 34 student artists representing seven Illinois Community Colleges. A closing reception will be held on Saturday, March 3 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the E-Lounge. The awards presentation and juror talk will take place from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. More than $1,500 in prize money will be awarded. 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.

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

Youth Art Show – Through February 28

The Youth Art Show is now taking place in the Gallery through February 28. An artist reception will be held on Wednesday, February 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Love donations will be accepted for materials and reception costs. For Gallery Hours or additional information, call 815-464-8818.

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

‘Presence-Absence’ Exhibit – Through February 29

‘Presence-Absence,’ a two-person show featuring the paintings by Sergio Gomez and Mark Zlotkowski will run through Wednesday, February 29 at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery located at the Chicago Heights campus. The exhibit is intended to encourage its audience to a deeper understanding of their own visible and invisible experiences. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, and Thursday. Visits can also be made by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment for a visit, call 708-709-3636.

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

‘Botanic/Organic’ Spring National Juried Exhibit – Opens February 29

USC will be hosting its spring national juried exhibit ‘Botanic/Organic’ beginning Wednesday, February 29. The exhibit will run through March 31. This exhibit features art by 52 artists from 21 different states. Art displayed is inspired by nature and the natural world and represents a variety of styles, techniques and media. An opening reception will be held on Friday, March 2 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Graduate Business and Public Administration Program Open House – Saturday, March 3

The College of Business and Public Administration at GSU is hosting a graduate program open house on Saturday, March 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Cafeteria Annex. Information on the Master in Business Administration, Master in Public Administration, Master of Science in Management Information Systems, and Master of Science in Accounting will be provided. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with academic and admission counselors, faculty members, and current students. Attendees are encouraged to bring official or unofficial transcripts for review. Applications will be accepted and a complete breakfast will be served. For addition information or to RSVP by February 29, call 708-534-4391 or e-mail [email protected].

 ‘How to Be an Investor-Ready Entrepreneur’ Seminar – Wednesday, February 29

CenterPoint at GSU is sponsoring a free seminar on ‘How to Be an Investor-Ready Entrepreneur’ at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 29 at Markham City Hall, 16313 S. Kedzie Avenue, Markham. Don Brozek, Manager of Illinois Technical Innovation and Entrepreneurship Services at CenterPoint, will lead the seminar. The session will focus on understanding the venture capital and angel investors market. You’ll find out how companies get money from these sources and how you can use it to build a successful business. The seminar is free and open to the public. For additional information or to register, call CenterPoint at 708-534-4927 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.

Reading Tutoring Available at GSU

GSU’s Graduate Program in Reading is sponsoring The Literacy Zone, a reading tutorial program for students in grades six through high school, on Tuesdays from January 24 through April 17 from 4:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This 12-week, 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 registration fee are received. There is a $70 registration fee. Snacks are provided at each session. Transportation is not provided. For additional information or to register, call 708-534-4122 or e-mail [email protected].

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

Financial Aid Workshop –Wednesday, March 14

PSC is hosting a workshop to help students and parents file the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online on Wednesday, March 14 at PSC. The workshop is free and open to the public and advanced registration is requested by calling 708-709-3735, or by completing the registration form online at prairiestate.edul. Assistance is also available in Spanish. In order to complete the FAFSA, applicants will need to provide a completed or estimated 2011 tax information (parent’s and student’s 1040, 1040A, and/or 1040EZ federal tax applications and W-2 forms); the student’s driver’s license and social security number, the parent’s social security number and date of birth; records f untaxed income (welfare, social security, AFDC/ADC, or veterans benefits); current bank statements; current mortgage information for properties other than the family’s principal residence; records of businesses, farm (if not the family’s principal residence), and assets (stocks, bonds, and other investments); and a calculator. For more information on the FAFSA workshops at PSC, contact the college’s Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs at 708-709-3735.

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].

Representative Anthony DeLuca, Chicago Heights

2012 General Assembly Scholarship Program – Applications Accepted Through March 15

Representative Anthony DeLuca is accepting applications for the 2012 General Assembly Scholarship program through Thursday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m. The scholarships are available o residents of the 80th District and will cover one year of tuition to the following universities:

• University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield)
• Chicago State University
• Eastern Illinois University
• Governors State University
• Illinois State University
• Northern Illinois University
• Northeastern Illinois University
• Southern Illinois University
• Western Illinois University

Eight recipients will receive one-year tuition, including summer semester. Fees, books, room and board are not covered. For additional information or to receive an application, call 708-672-0200 or visit www.housedem.state.il.us.

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

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.

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 Baseball

Registration for 2012 Season – Final Registration Date Saturday, March 3

The final registration for Park Forest Baseball’s 2012 Season will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive from noon to 4 p.m. on and Saturday, March 3. Players are required to furnish a birth certificate. Fees vary by division, with a refundable participation fee of $25 and a fundraising requirement of selling one box of candy. A complete uniform is provided and teams play approximately 20 games during the season. Park Forest Baseball is part of the Greater South Suburban Baseball League, which is made up of Hazel Crest, Richton Park, Glenwood, University Park, OTYA, Matteson, Matteson-Olympia Fields, Chicago Heights, and South Chicago Heights. For additional information, call Alan or Mary Kay Joens at 708-503-1944 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.ParkForestBaseball.org.

Park Forest Vehicle Stickers

Vehicle Sticker Sales Begin March 1

The 2012-2013 Park Forest vehicle stickers go on sale beginning March 1.  Vehicle stickers must be displayed, prior to May 1, on every vehicle that is registered with the State of Illinois with a Park Forest address; even if that vehicle is not located in Park Forest.  Vehicles driven in Park Forest without a current vehicle sticker are subject to citations by law enforcement officers, until a sticker is purchased and displayed.  The cost to purchase a vehicle sticker is $50 before May 1.  Vehicle sticker purchases made on or after May 1 will be assessed a late charge of $25.  An additional late fee will be assessed to vehicle sticker purchases made on or after August 1.  Stickers can be purchased at Village Hall during the normal business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday – with extended hours from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday.  To print an application, click here.  For additional information, including more details on rate changes, click here.

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.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St., Park Forest

Refreshing Times Senior’s Ministry – Friday, March 2

On Friday, March 2 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., those 55 and older are welcome to join us for this monthly support fellowship that combines food, interactive Christian Bible study, informative workshops, arts and crafts, and birthday celebrations. For additional information, call 708-593-6536.

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

Rainbow Café Monthly Meeting – Saturday, March 3

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 Drive, Park Forest.

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

Sertoma Needs Volunteers on Tuesday, March 13

Sertoma Centre is looking for people willing to donate one evening of their time on Tuesday, March 13. Join other volunteers for a bus ride to McCormick Place in Chicago and a few hours of packing exhibitor booths at the International Housewares Show. For ten years, Sertoma Centre has been fortunate enough to be one of five charities allowed to receive donations from the exhibitors at this trade show. Products from the Housewares Show are used in all Sertoma facilities and residences. Programs including Developmental Training which utilizes many housewares items such as electric skillets and cooking utensils to help individuals with disabilities develop cooking skills. In addition, donated merchandise is sold at Sertoma Centre’s Thrift Store Good As New in Matteson. On Tuesday, March 13, coach buses will leave Sertoma Centre, 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip, at 4 p.m. SHARP and return by 9:30 p.m. Participants will receive a boxed dinner during the ride into Chicago. Sertoma staff will accommodate anyone interested in joining. Participants must be at least 18 years of age. Register as a volunteer by Tuesday, March 6 by calling Karey Wentz at 708-481-5627 or e-mail [email protected]. For additional information, visit www.sertomacentre.org home page and click on the Housewares Show Volunteer Information link.

Good As New Thrift Store – Seeking Donations

The Sertoma Centre’s Good As New Thrift Store, 4331 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, is seeking donations of gently used furniture and other household items in good condition. Proceeds from the sale of items at the Thrift Store go directly to supporting the 14 programs offered by Sertoma Centre. The store also serves as a training program for consumers at Sertoma to allow them to gain experience and transition into permanent retail jobs. The Thrift Store will pick up furniture donations within the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago free of charge. To make an arrangement to make a tax deductible donation of furniture to Good As News, call 708-481-5627. For additional information, to schedule a tour, volunteer or to make a donation, please call Amy Chmura at 708-730-6206 or e-mail [email protected].

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 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.