Retiring Corporal Mel Dunnagan (center) with Det. John DeCeault (left) and Officer Tom Piszczor at last week’s Village Board meeting. Dunnagan will retire January 31 after more than 25 years of service to the residents of Park Forest. Mel and his wife, Cheryl, will be relocating to an area in Florida. (Photo: ENEWSPF)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—January 23, 2012. You and the family can get ready for spring by signing up for the free tennis lessons that will be given at the Park Forest Tennis & Health Club on Saturday, February 11. Space is limited and registration is required. Learn more about this event in the ‘Healthy Living’ Section below.
If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.
Village of Park Forest
Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings
The following Park Forest Commission will meet the week of January 23:
- Wednesday, January 25 at 7 p.m. – Cable Communications Commission
The meeting will take place at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend.
Green Events
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Dr., Park Forest
‘Earth: The Operators’ Manual’ – Free Movie & Discussion – Saturday, January 28
On Saturday, January 28 at 7 p.m., UUCC will screen the movie ‘Earth: The Operators’ Manual.’ The film screening will be followed by a discussion led by Jeff Green. Things that are important to us, like cars and computers, come with manuals. So why not a manual for the most complex operating system of all – the Earth? Is the planet due for an oil change? What do we need to do to keep Earth operating at peak performance? These are some of the questions addressed in ‘Earth: The Operators’ Manual. This film shown on PBS, will leave you amazed at the beauty and bounty of the planet, inspired by human ingenuity and optimistic about the future. Free coffee, tea, and popcorn will be provided. Bring a snack to share if you wish. Optional donations will be gratefully accepted. For additional information, call 708-481.5339.
‘How We’d Like to Transform Our Polluted Area Into a Cleaner Region’ – Sunday, January 29
On Sunday, January 29 at 11:30 a.m., Tom Shepherd, Southeast Environmental Task Force and Cheryl Johnson, Executive Director of People for Community Recovery will present “How We’d Like to Transform Our Polluted Area Into a Cleaner Region’ and will lead a discussion on the challenges of Chicago’s southeast side. Tom is the principal guide for the well-known Toxics to Treasures Eco-Tour that takes visitors through the gritty region where heavy industry has flourished and, in many cases, left environmental challenges in its wake. Cheryl learned about dangerous environmental issues in her Altgeld Gardens neighborhood from her mother, Hazel M. Johnson, who was a recipient of awards presented by Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush, and had worked alongside Barack Obama during his community organizing days. For additional information, call 708-481.5339.
Park Forest Environment Commission & Park Forest Garden Club
‘Natural Lawn Care Basics’ – Save the Date
The Park Forest Environment Commission and Park Forest Garden Club invite you to attend a free educational forum on ‘Natural Lawn Care Basics’ that will be held on Saturday, February 4 at 10 a.m. in the Ringering Room of the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard. Speaker Rachel Rosenberg, Executive Director of Safer Pest Control Project, will help you to discover the health and environmental impacts of conventionally maintained lawns and the benefits of a natural lawn care approach. A status report on the 2012 Park Forest Community Garden project will also be provided. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991.
Village of Park Forest
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.
Arts & Entertainment
Village of Park Forest Recreation & Parks Department, Park Forest
February Senior Trip to Art Institute of Chicago & High Tea at Drake Hotel – Registration Deadline Monday, January 23
The Senior Trip to the Art Institute of Chicago and High Tea at the Drake Hotel will be held on Wednesday, February 1. From popular Rembrandt masterpieces to recent works by lesser-known artists, the Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the finest art collections in the world. You will have 2 hours to explore the museum on your own. Or you may also take this as an opportunity to visit the shops or sights of Chicago during the Art Institute timeframe or grab a light snack before tea on your own. Following the Art Institute, at 2 pm, we will journey to the historic Drake Hotel for High Tea in the renowned Palm Court. Hear the heavenly sounds of a live harp while enjoying a traditional English afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, fruit breads, scones and French pastries. The trip is $65 per person and includes roundtrip transportation departing at 10:30 a.m. from Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Blvd., and returning at approximately 5 p.m. Registration deadline is Monday, January 23 – but don’t wait as these trips fill up fast and seating is limited. For additional information or to register by phone with a credit card, call 708-748-2005 or sign up in person at the Recreation & Parks desk at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.
Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:
- Monday, January 23 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
- Monday, January 23 at 12 p.m. – Friends Book Discussion ‘Left Neglected’ by Lisa Genova
- Tuesday, January 24 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
- Tuesday, January 24 at 7 p.m. – Pajama Storytime – For all story lovers Ages 2 thru 12. Drop-ins welcome.
- Wednesday, January 25 at 3:30 p.m. – Breaktime! Ages 6 & Up. Stop in to see what we’re doing — crafts, games, more.
- Thursday, January 26 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit – Ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver. Registration please.
- Thursday, January 26 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art – Ages 2-4 with caregiver. Registration please.
- Thursday, January 26 at 2 p.m. – Learn to Use Your Nook. An introduction to using a Barnes & Noble Nook. Please note: you must bring your own device for this class.
- Thursday, January 26 at 7 p.m. – “Piecing Together a Story” Book Discussions: ‘The Elm Creek Quilt Series’ – All Adults Welcome! Pick a selection from this popular quilt series to discuss with fellow quilt lovers and cozy readers.
- Friday, January 27 at 1 p.m. – Senior Travelogue: Bavaria
- Friday, January 26 at 3:15 p.m. – Wii Game Extravaganza – Bring your friends to try out the latest games.
- Friday, January 26 at 4 p.m. – Teen Time – Ages 12 & up. Wii games, classic TV reruns, board game competitions, teen crafts.
- Saturday, January 28 at 11 a.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.
- Saturday, January 28 at 2 p.m. – Learn to use Your Nook. An introduction to using a Barnes & Noble Nook. Please note: you must bring your own device for this class.
- Saturday, January 28 at 2 p.m. – Wooden Quilt Puzzle Craft. Please Register. Ages 7 & up. Paint the squares and then you arrange in the design you pick.
For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.
Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest
Ryan DeHues – Tickets Now on Sale
Freedom Hall’s Senior Series will continue on Tuesday, February 7 at 11 a.m. when Ryan DeHues, an abundantly gifted singing prodigy will ignite the audience with his impressive vocal stylings and incredible command of the stage. Ryan valiantly keeps the flame burning for singing in the tradition of his influences – Jack Jones, Frank Sinatra, Booby Darin, Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme. The music he sings reflects meticulous taste and the quality standards of the great American songbook writers such as Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Sammy Cahn and Hoagy Carmichael. Ryan tells the story of every tune, breathing life into every note and word, singing with unrestrained feeling. Tickets are $9.00. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
Hot 8 Brass Band – Tickets Now on Sale
On Friday, February 10 at 8 p.m., New Orleans’ own Hot 8 Brass Band, that epitomizes New Orleans street music for over a decade, will perform with funk and energy. The members of the Hot 8 Brass Band were born and raised in New Orleans, having performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and several Spike Lee documentaries. They have released critically acclaimed recordings and are featured on the latest Blind Boys of Alabama recording. Tickets are $28. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walkway, Park Forest
‘Broke-Ology’ by Nathan Louis Jackson –Opens Friday, January 27
Tickets are now on sale for Nathan Louis Jackson’s ‘Broke-Ology’ which will open on January 27 and run through February 12. This exciting new play is a stirring portrait of an African-American family. When a college student returns to his Kansas City home to help his brother care for their ill father, they find themselves strangely at odds. The New York Time described it as ‘A moving exploration of how time and circumstance – and the hard fact of poverty – can diminish hope, divide loving siblings, and ultimately extinguish life itself.” 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
‘No Place Like Home’ – Tickets Now on Sale
Join us on Saturday, February 11 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 12 at 3 p.m. for a "world cruise" for the senses when Markand Thakar, music director of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, leads the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra in a program bursting with melody. Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man heralds the equality and nobility of mankind as the U.S. was thrust into World War II; Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, one of classical music’s greatest hits, is Russian to the core; and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 is a lively sketch of his beloved Bohemia. The February 11th concert will be held at Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center
19900 S. Harlem Avenue, Frankfort. The February 12th concert will be held at Trinity Christian College’s Ozinga Chapel, 6601 W. College Drive, Palos Heights. Tickets are priced at $30 and $25 and can be purchased at: https://secure.ticketsage.net/Events. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.
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. A reception will be held on Friday, February 3 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit: www.tallgrassarts.org.
Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park
Golden Dragon Acrobats – Sunday, January 29
On Sunday, January 29 at 3 p.m. celebrate the Chinese New Year with the Golden Dragon Acrobats! They represent the best of a time honored tradition that began more than twenty-five centuries ago. The Golden Dragon Acrobats are recognized throughout the United States and abroad as the premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company of today. Tickets range in price from $44 to $15. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: http://www.centertickets.net/tickets.
‘The Color Purple’ – Tickets Now on Sale
On Wednesday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. ‘The Color Purple,’ a soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, and the moving film by Steven Spielberg will be performed. ‘The Color Purple’ is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who—through love—finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her unique voice in the world. Set to a joyous score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, and blues, ‘The Color Purple’ is a story of hope, testament to the healing power of love, and celebration of life! Tickets are priced at $28 (students), $50, $57, and $65. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-235-2222 or visit: http://www.centertickets.net/tickets.
‘Treasured Stories’ by Eric Carle – Tickets Now on Sale
Tickets are now on sale for ‘Treasured Stories: A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar’ by Eric Carle which will be performed on Saturday, February 4 at 11 a.m. The very hungry caterpillar is joined by a whimsical cast of adventurous animals drawn from the pages of ‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See’; and the poignant story of a young girl’s unusual quest, ‘Papa Please Get the Moon for Me,’ completes an hour-long performance, which both entertains and educates. Featuring evocative music, stunning visual effects and innovative puppetry, the triple-bill highlights three of Eric Carle’s most beloved tales. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: http://www.centertickets.net/tickets.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
‘Ways of Making: Photography’ – Through Friday, February 3
The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU is currently presenting ‘Ways of Making: Photography,’ featuring the work of artists Myra Green and Cecil McDonald, Jr. through Friday, February 3. A closing reception celebrating the exhibition will be held on Thursday, February 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public. The Visual Arts Gallery is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; and by appointment. For additional information, call 708-534-4021 or visit www.govst.edu/gallery.
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Annual Winter Walk and Chili Dinner – Saturday, January 28 – Reservations Required
The Annual Winter Walk and Chili Dinner will be held on Saturday, January 28 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The tour will leave from the GSU’s Hall of Governors, D-Wing. The event is free and open to the public. If high temperatures are forecast below 20 degrees, the Winter Walk will be rescheduled for the next day, Sunday, January 29. Reservations are limited to 35 and are required. Please call the Sculpture Park RSVP Line at 708-534-3084 with your name, contact number, and number of guests or contact [email protected] for additional information.
South Suburban PADS
‘N’awlins’ Style Fundraiser’ – Tickets Now on Sale
South Suburban PADS will be holding ‘N’awlins’ Style Fundraiser’ on Saturday, February 11 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 115 Bourbon Street, 13359 Merrionette Park, IL. South Suburban PADS is an emergency shelter program that has operative in the South and Southwest suburbs of Chicago since 1990. It is an interfaith effort that provides food, shelter and hospitality to men, women and children with no place to live. Tickets are $45 per person and include wine, beer and soda bar, buffet meal of local favorites and Cajun cuisine. Special Guest Master of Ceremony will be Andrea Darias of WGN Radio. Dress is casual chic, costumes are encouraged. Advance ticket purchase is required. Tickets can be purchased at www.sspads.org. For additional information, call 708-754-4357.
Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights
‘I Shall Be Released’ Regional Juried Exhibit – Through February 11
‘I Shall Be Released’ a Regional juried exhibit will run through Saturday, February 11. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
The Sculpture of Howard Haarer & Rob Millard-Mendez – Through February 11
The sculpture of Howard Haarer and Rob Millard-Mendez will be exhibited through Saturday, February 11. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Winter Night Hike – Saturday, January 28 – Registration Required
Thorn Creek Nature Center’s Winter Night Hike will take place on Saturday, January 28 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This event is free and open to all ages. Registration is required. As the sun goes down many animals are just becoming active and, even though it is hard to see them with the fading light, you know they are there because of their calls. Join us as we walk through the twilight in anticipation of the night sounds. Come dressed for the weather. Participants should be able to walk a mile outdoors on uneven and possibly snow-covered ground. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
CenterPoint Offers January Workshops on Starting Businesses
CenterPoint at GSU is sponsoring ‘Starting a Business in Illinois’ workshops in January for Chicago Southland residents. The free two-hour workshops focus on personal, financial, and legal aspects of starting a business. Participants will learn what steps to take and what resources are available to assist new business owners succeed in today’s challenging economic climate. Workshops will be presented on:
- Monday, January 23 at 1p.m. at the Palos Heights Public Library, 12501 S. 71st St., Palos Heights.
- Tuesday, January 31 at 6:30 p.m. n the Home Glen Public Library, 14320 W. 151st St., Home Glen.
For additional information, call 708-534-4927 or visit: www.centerpointgsu.com.
Careers for the 21st Century Workshops – Monday, January 30 and Thursday, February 2
GSU is hosting ‘Careers for the 21st Century,’ a series of free workshops for both career seekers and career counselors on Monday, January 30 and Thursday, February 2. Participants may attend the workshop(s) of their choice. Workshops on Monday, January 30 include:
- “The New Careers Perspectives for the New Career World’ from 10 a.m. to noon, E-Lounge
- “Intuition, A Long Overlooked Career Counseling Competency” from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., E-Lounge
- “Personal Reflections on the Use of Intuition in Career Choices” from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Cafeteria Annex.
Workshops on Thursday, February 2 include:
- “Career Transitions and Life Management in the New Career Market” from 10 a.m. to noon, Cafeteria Annex
- “Navigating uncertainty” from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Cafeteria Annex
- “Passion Search: Find Your Career Passion and Path” from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Cafeteria Annex.
Workshop presenters include Dr. Byron Waller, Associate Professor of Counseling at GSU; Carol Vecchio, founder of Centerpoint Institute for Life and Career Renewal, a nonprofit educational organization; and Dr. Heather Zeng, core faculty member and subject matter expert in career counseling at Capella University. Registration is not required. To reserve a seat or for more information, e-mail Dr. Bryon Waller at [email protected]. Include the workshops you wish to attend as well as your contact information.
Manilow Sculpture Park Docent Orientation Begins February 9 – Registration Required
Expand your horizons this year as a docent at the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park (NMSP). Orientation sessions begin February 9 for the 2012 Docent Class at NMSP located at GSU. As a docent you will guide visitors through the nationally acclaimed sculpture park, home to 27 masterworks by some of the world’s great contemporary artists. Docents lead weekend tours of the park, host programs and receptions, and act as park ambassadors. Docents do not have to be experts in contemporary art, and persons of all ages are welcome in the program. Prospective docents will receive instructional materials and simple assignments will be due every other week during orientation. Topics include park history, an introduction to the history of sculpture, presentations on each piece in the collection, and pointers on how to conduct tours. This February 9 session takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Room G262 at GSU. Advance registration and a $25 fee are required. For additional information on the park docent program and volunteer opportunities, call 708-534-4486, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.govst.edu/sculpture.
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.
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.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 S. Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
Opt In to Technology at PSC
You can bridge the gap between technology and a new you at PSC’s new Opt In program that consists of two computer training centers and free classes to teach basic technological skills. One location is at the Adult Training and outreach Center in Room A145 at PSC’s main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The other location is at the Matteson Area Center’s Computer Training Lab located at 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson. Hours for this location are Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. No matter what skill level you have or want to have, Opt In can help. Both computer labs and on-site tutors are free and open to the public. For additional information, call Lisa Zeigler at 708-709-3548 or e-mail [email protected].
Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults
Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leonard Robinson Family Services Center, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park. Participants will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet skills, résumé building skills, and more. Classes are open only to residents of Rich Township. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.
Healthy Living
Park Forest Tennis & Health Club, 290 Westwood Dr., Park Forest
Treat the Family to Tennis Lessons for Free – Saturday, February 11 – Registration Required
Enjoy three hours of learning the game of tennis — right here in town — at the indoor Park Forest Tennis and Health Club. You’ll learn some basics of the game and will be prepared to take your game outdoors when spring arrives. The event takes place on Saturday, February 11 from noon to 3 p.m. Participants should wear athletic shoes and, if possible, bring a tennis racket. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult. This program is free and space is limited. Register your family today by calling 708-748-2005.
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 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 – Now in Progress
Registration for Park Forest Baseball’s 2012 Season will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 11 and Saturday, March 3. There will also be registration held on Saturday, January 28 and Saturday, February 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Village Hall. 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.
Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest
Free Java Tuesdays
All are invited to Faith United Protestant Church for FREE Java Tuesdays. Visitors are asked to go to the Indianwood Boulevard side entrance between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. for free curbside service or to come and sit a bit. The event will continue each Tuesday as a form of outreach to the community throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call 708-747-1330.
Garden Club of Park Forest
"A Gardener’s Cookbook"
To celebrate their 55th anniversary, the Park Forest Garden Club offers this cookbook filled with memories, gardening tips, flowery sayings and of course recipes. Makes a great gift. All proceeds go to the club and are used toward community contributions. Cookbooks are $9 and are available at the Park Forest Recreation and Parks Department, 350 Victory Drive. Call 708-748-2005 for additional information.
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.
