Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of February 7, 2011


Beverly Helm
Beverly Helm of Park Forest digs out after the Blizzard of 2011. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—February 7, 2011.  With all the snow on the ground it might be hard to think about outdoor sports, but registration is now underway for Park Forest Baseball and the Park Forest Hurricanes, the new youth tackle football and cheerleading program. You can find registration dates and additional information in the “This and 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.

Village of Park Forest Meetings

Village Board Meeting

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, February 7 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. 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 villageofparkforest.com.
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: villageofparkforest.com and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Village Commissions and Boards will meet this week:

  • Youth Commission – Tuesday, February 8 at 7 p.m.
  • Commission on Human Relations – Tuesday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m.

All meetings are held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Candidates Forum – Sunday, February 13

The first Candidate Forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area will be held on Sunday, February 14 at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The forum  will begin at 2 p.m. and last two hours.  The first 15 minutes will be for the Library Board candidates followed by 45 minutes for the three unopposed Village Trustee candidates. The last hour will be for the two mayoral candidates. Residents are encouraged to attend. The forum will also be aired 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 villageofparkforest.com.
Additional Candidate Forums are currently scheduled for March 1, March 20 and March 27.

Ash Street after blizzard
Ash Street was one snow-covered lane late Wednesday afternoon after the Blizzard of 2011 had officially ended. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

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 7 at 10:30 a.m. – AM Storytime for children ages 2 and up
  • Tuesday, February 8  at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for children of all ages
  • Wednesday, February 9 at 10:15 a.m. – Lapsit for infants through age 3
  • Wednesday, February 9 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 through 5
  • Wednesday, February 9 at 7 p.m. – Edible Mysteries book Discussion of Fatally Flaky by Diane Mott Davidson
  • Friday, February 11 at 3:30 p.m. – Valentine Crafts
  • Saturday, February 12 at Noon – Foodie Movie Chocolat
  • Saturday, February 12 at 2 p.m. – The World Loves Chocolate — Explore the history, legends, and science behind our favorite sweet. Register early to be part of the taste-testing panel. Take home new recipes. Learn about chocolate-themed books. Register at [email protected]

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

Soup Collection

The Library is currently collecting can soups for the Rich Township Food Pantry. Put your contributions in the shopping cart located near the Library’s front desk.

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

Step Back Into a 1950s Valentine’s Day at the Park Forest House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard, Park Forest, will be decorated throughout February with vintage valentines and decorations. The one-room classroom will be decorated for a 1950’s Valentine’s Day party with crepe paper, candy baskets, and construction paper hearts.

The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. For additional information, visit parkforesthistory.org or call Jane Nicoll, Museum Director, at 708-481-4252 or email at [email protected].

Bricks from Former Marshall Field’s Store for Sale

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

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

Maureen Christine “People Will Say We’re in Love” – Tuesday, February 8

Freedom Hall’s Senior Series continues on Tuesday, February 8 at 11 a.m. when the ever popular Maureen Christine and band return with an all new musical program featuring the songs of Rodgers, Hammerstein and Hart. Enjoy the favorite melodies including: Grand Night for Singing, Sound of Music Medley, Something Wonderful and You’ll Never Walk Alone. Tickets are $9. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit: www.freedomhall.org.

Casey Driessen and the Colorfools – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, February 19 at 8 pm. witness the Grammy nominated, inventive genre-warping fiddler Casey Driessen and his band the Colorfools. In Driessen’s hands the fiddle is a percussion instrument as well as a breathtaking melodic lead, a synthesizer and a songstress. He has performed with Steve Earle, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, John Mayer, and countless others. Tickets are $20. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit: www.freedomhall.org.

Children’s Theatre “Madeline and the Bad Hat” – Tickets Now on Sale

On Thursday, February 18 at 7 p.m., bring the children to see “Madeline and the Bad Hat,” an original musical based upon the much-loved book. This gently amusing tale of enemies-become-friends will charm and entertain children and parents alike. Tickets are $7. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit: www.freedomhall.org.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“Intimate Apparel” – Through February 13

“Intimate Apparel” by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Lynn Nottage is now playing through Sunday, February 13. In New York City in 1905, Ester, a black seamstress sews ‘intimate apparel’ for clients ranging from wealth white ladies to Harlem prostitutes. Her gifted hands and sewing machine are the tools she uses to fashion her dreams from the whole cloth of her life’s experiences. “A poignant commentary on an era when the cut and color of one’s dress – and of course, skin – determined whom one could marry, sleep with and event talk to in public” according to Variety. Tickets are priced at $20 and $22. There is a $1 discount for students and seniors 65 and older. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-3510 or visit www.ilthctr.org.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Carnival of Venice Dinner Party and Benefit – Tickets Now on Sale

On Sunday, February 27 at 5:30 p.m. at the Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Dr., Tinley Park, come to ‘A Casually Festive Benefit.’ The evening includes an exclusive live auction, silent auction, live entertainment and dancing. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. Cash bar available. Tickets are $65 per person ($40 tax-deductible). Proceeds support the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra Performances and Youth Education programs. To purchase tickets, visit: https://secure.ticketsage.net/EventsPage.aspx?ws=1.

Famous Fives – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, March 5 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19000 S. Harlem, Frankfort, guest conductor Victor Yampolsky and the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will present famous fifth symphonies. The evening will begin with Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5 in B-flat major followed by Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 in D minor. Tickets are priced at $50, $40, and $30 and can be purchased online at: https://secure.ticketsage.net/EventsPage.aspx?ws=1

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main St., Park Forest

Valentine’ Day Sale – Through Sunday, February 13

Beginning Tuesday, February 8, Salon Artists Gallery will present its Valentine’s Day Sale. The sale will continue through Sunday, February 13. Gifts for men and women will include handmade pens, wood bowls, jewelry, pottery and paintings. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-833-5108.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Tall Grass Film Series Presents “Micmacs” – Sunday, February 13

On Sunday, February 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Marcus Theater, 1301 Hilltop Ave., Chicago Heights, Tall Grass Arts Association will show the French comedy, “Micmacs“. Written and directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet who also directed “Amelie” and “A Very Long Engagement”, this is a surrealist film about a man named Bazil, his friends and their intricate and original plan to destroy two big weapons manufacturers. The film is in French with English subtitles. Box Office admission is $9.00.Following the film there will be a discussion of it in the movie theater. For additional information, visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

“The Wizard of Oz” – Friday, February 11

The Missoula Children’s Theatre will present “The Wizard of Oz” on Friday, February 11 at 7 p.m. The story is as familiar as it is beloved. That nasty tornado carries Dorothy and her canine pal, Toto from the friendly confines of her Kansas home to a fabled fantasy of mystery and magic in the land of Oz. Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion will head down the Yellow Brick Road on a journey to find the Wizard. General admission tickets are $10. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

Duke Ellington’s Sophisticated Ladies – Saturday, February 12

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day treat?  Savor the timeless music of jazz legend Duke Ellington’s Tony Award-winning revue, Sophisticated Ladies on Saturday, February 12 at 8 p.m. Tickets are priced at $46, $39, and $31. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

Frank Catalano Quartet – Tickets Now on Sale

The Center’s popular Cabaret series continues on Saturday, February 19 at 8 p.m. with the Frank Catalano Quartet. A favorite at the Green Mill, Catalano has played with jazz and music greats from Santana and Tito Puente to Von Freeman and David Sanborn. Tickets are $37. You can also enjoy snacks and cocktail service during the Cabaret shows. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

Rich Township Senior Chorus

Singers Needed

The Rich Township Senior Chorus is looking for people who love to sing. Any senior resident living in the south suburbs is welcome to join. The chorus performs twice a month for senior facilities throughout the south suburbs. For additional information about joining the chorus, call 708-748-5454.

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

23rd Annual Jazz Fest – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for PSC’s 23rd Annual Jazz Fest which will be held on Friday, February 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the PSC auditorium. The event will feature the talents of Chicago trumpeter Orbert Davis and New Orleans saxophonist Ed Petersen as well as Larry Gray on bass, PSC’s professor of music Valerie Nicholson on piano, and Joel Spencer on drums. This is an event not to be missed. General admission tickets are priced at $12; students and senior citizens are $8. Tickets are available in advance in the PSC Business Office Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets will also be available at the door. For additional information on the Jazz Festival, call 708-709-3500.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights

 “Dialogue” Exhibition – Through February 12

“Dialogue” an exhibition of more than 30 large scale abstract expressionist paintings by Patricia Moore along with the work of 14 regional sculptors is now taking place at Union Street Gallery. For additional information or gallery hours, phone 708-754-2601 or visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, February 10

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.

Together We Cope, 17010 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park

Annual Dinner Dance & Silent Auction – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for Together We Cope’s Annual Dinner Dance & Silent Auction which will be held on Friday, February 25 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Odyssey Country Club, 19110 Ridgeland Ave., Tinley Park. Guests can walk the red-carpet “Academy Awards” style, dance to the varied contemporary -sounds of Connexion, sample culinary delights, and out-bid their friends on one of the 100+ auction items, including airline tickets and vacation condo stays. Master of Ceremonies for the event is local comedian Brian Hicks. Tickets are $75 each. Tables of ten can be purchased for $700. Together We Cope is a nonprofit agency that offers assistance to families in temporary crisis from 27 south suburban communities. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit: toghetherwecope.com.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Park Forest Nurses Club to Meet on February 17

The Park Forest Nurses Club will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 Orchard, Park Forest (east corner of Lincoln Hwy. and Orchard Dr.). Lois Levin CDE, will discuss “What’s New in Diabetic Treatment.” All RN’s and LPN’s active or inactive, are invited to attend. For additional information, call 708-481-8387. Be sure to check out the Club’s new website at 222.pfnursesclub.org.

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

Early Head Start & Prekindergarten Programs Informational Meetings and Screenings

The Family Development Center at GSU will hold informational meetings and screenings monthly for admission into Early Head Start and prekindergarten programs. Children from birth to two years old are eligible for admission into the Early Head Start program. Three to five year olds are eligible for the full and half day, three and five day prekindergarten programs at the center. Admission is open to all students. A screening is required to meet qualification requirements for free and reduced tuition. Informational meetings and screenings will be held on February 10, March 11, April 8, and May 13. For additional information or to make an appointment, call 708-235-7300.

Infant & Toddler Childcare Now Available

GSU’s Family Development Center (FDC) has opened an Illinois State licensed childcare facility for infants, toddlers, and two year olds. The little ones are cared for in specially equipped classrooms of eight children, each staffed with two teachers. The infant and toddler childcare center is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. FDC staff have been extensively and specially trained to care for young children. Licensure required extensive review by the State. The FDC also offers full and half day pre-kindergarten, three or five days a week, and childcare for three to five year olds and before and after school childcare for five to twelve year olds. Several special grants are available to assist eligible families with infant, toddler childcare costs. Discounts are also offered for GSU students and staff. For additional information or to register your child, call 708-235-7300.

2011 Illinois General Assembly Scholarship Program – Applications Now Accepted

Applications for the 2011 Illinois General Assembly Scholarship Program will be accepted through Friday, March 18. The scholarships are available to residents of the 80th District and will cover one-year of tuition to the following universities:

  • University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign, Chicago & 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 State Representative Anthony DeLuca’s constituent service office at 708-672-0200 or visit www.housedem.state.il.us/members/delucaa.

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.

Green Events

Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

“A Chemical Reaction: The Story of a True Green Revolution” – Movie & Discussion, Saturday, February 26

On Saturday, February 26 at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest, the movie, A Chemical Reaction will be screened followed by a discussion. A Chemical Reaction tells the story of a doctor and community who came together to ban the use of chemical lawn pesticides and herbicides in their community, fighting big chemical companies, and demonstrating the power of people to join together to effect great change in society. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Bring a snack or non-alcoholic drink to share if you wish. Optional donations will be accepted.

University of Illinois at Chicago

“Wild Things” A Chicago Wilderness Conference for People and Nature – Register Now

Early registration is now being accepted for the “Wild Things’ Wilderness Conference which will be held on March 5, 2011 at the University of Illinois at Chicago. This day-long conference will bring together the region’s best experts, most dedicated volunteers and anyone interested in nature. There will be technical presentations and interactive workshops of interest for everyone from beginners to experts. Topics include habitat management, advocacy, wildlife conservation, education, art, culture, history, backyard and neighborhood ecology. Register early through January 30 for only $28 at habitatproject.org. For questions or additional information, call 847-328-3910, extension 21 or email [email protected].

Healthy Living

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.

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.

This & That

Village of Park Forest

Wine and Chocolate Tasting – Friday, February 11

Come and enjoy an evening of tasting wine and chocolate on Friday, February 11 at 7 p.m. at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. Tickets are $15 in advance of the event and $20 at the door. Tickets are $10 each when your purchase 4 or more at a time.

Tickets can be purchased here or at Village Hall. For additional information, call 708-283-5621.

Registration for Park Forest Baseball and Park Forest Hurricanes In Progress

Registration for Park Forest Baseball and the Park Forest Hurricanes, the new youth tackle football and cheerleading program is now in progress. The registration schedule is:

Park Forest Baseball
Saturday, February 19 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, February 26 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, March 5 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Park Forest Hurricanes
Saturday, February 19 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, March 19 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Registration will take place at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, for all dates. For additional information, see: villageofparkforest.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

C4 Underground Youth Gathering – Every Tuesday & Thursday

Youths in grades 6 and up are welcome to join us every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for fun and games, group discussion and a variety of activities. For more information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Men’s Breakfast Fellowship – Saturday, February 12

On Saturday, February 12 at 9 a.m., join the Men’s Ministry for food and discussion on a variety of topics. All ages are welcome. This event is held on the second ad fourth Saturdays of each month. For more information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

Current Events Topic Group – Every Monday

Join us every Monday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as we gather to talk about God, us, the world and how they all work together. Roots and Wings is located behind Celebration Ministries. For more information, contact Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Scrapping Sisters – Monday, February 7

On Monday, February 7 at 6 p.m., join the Scrapping Sisters as they host this monthly event. Come out and show your scrapbooking talent. Food will be provided. Feel free to bring a side to share or provide a donation for food and supplies. This event is held on the first Monday of each month. For additional information, contact Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

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.

Governor’s State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park

“Share the Love” Diaper Drive – Through February 24

Students in GSU’s Social Work Student Organization are sponsoring “Share the Love,” collecting diapers for families in need, now through Thursday, February 24. Diaper donations can be made to designated boxes at GSU and will be given to the South Suburban Family Shelter in Homewood and Women of Power in Chicago. For additional information, call 815-549-6450.

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

Volunteers Needed for Annual Trip to Housewares Show

Sertoma Centre is looking for people willing to donate one evening of their time on Tuesday, March 8th. Join other volunteers for a bus ride to McCormick Place in Chicago, IL and a few hours of packing vendor booths at the International Housewares Show. For nine years, Sertoma Centre has been fortunate enough to be one of only five charities allowed to receive donations from the vendors at this trade show. This community service agency is dedicated to serving individuals with developmental, physical, emotional disabilities and/or mental illness and always grateful to those who consistently support them.

The coach buses will leave Sertoma Centre, 4343 W. 123rd St, Alsip at 4 p.m. SHARP and return by 9:30 p.m. (You must arrive at Sertoma no later than 3:45 p.m.). Participants will receive a boxed dinner during the ride into Chicago. Sertoma staff will find the appropriate job for each person’s skill level and ability, and will accommodate anyone who is interested in joining us. Participants must be 18 years of age. Register as a volunteer by Tuesday, March 2nd, 2011 by contacting Karey Wentz, Thrift Store Manager at (708) 481-5627, [email protected]. or Melanie Jones, Director of Advancement & Communications at 708-730-6206, [email protected]. For additional information visit sertomacentre.org home page and click on the Housewares Show Volunteer Information link.

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.

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.

Sources: Park Forest 201 Winter-SpringRecreation Programs & More; Park Forest Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Recreation Programs Brochure; 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 Theatre Center, Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery, CAUTION, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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