Mrs. Birdell Edwards registers Trevon, 5 (left), DeShaun, 7, and herself for the 2011 season at the Park Forest Aqua Center Saturday. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)-June 6, 2011. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) has selected Park Forest to provide technical assistance in the creation of a Sustainability Plan. This Plan will establish a clear direction for Park Forest to achieve its sustainability goals. It will examine a variety of environmental, economic, and equity measures such as building standards, transportation, open space and recreation, water systems, local business and green jobs, local food systems, education, community health and wellness, housing diversity, and arts and culture. Performance measures and action steps will be established to enable the Village to achieve its goals over the coming years. This plan will involve significant public input in the form of a formal steering committee, ad hoc topical work groups, large public meetings and formal public hearings.
The Board of Trustees will hear a presentation from CMAP and their regional GO TO 2040 Plan at its June 6 Board meeting. All interested Village residents are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting to learn more. To learn more about the GO To 2040 Plan, visit: www.cmap.illinois.gov/2040/main.
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 Board Meeting
The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, June 6 at 7 p.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.
New Park Forest Businesses – Remember to Shop Locally
South Suburban Food Co-op, 208 Forest Boulevard, Park Forest
The South Suburban Food Co-op opened its doors at its new Park Forest location, 208 Forest Boulevard in Downtown Park Forest. The store is located immediately to the north of the Tower Cleaners. The Food Co-op offers organic and specialty foods, in addition to a number of other items commonly found at small grocery stores. It has all the flavor of the neighborhood grocery stores that so many of us remember from our childhoods. Everyone is urged to visit the new store and to get acquainted with its offerings. More information may be obtained by calling 708-747-2256, or by visiting the South Suburban Food Co-op website.
Teona’s Boutiques at 310 Main Street, Park Forest
Teona’s Boutiques recently opened in DownTown Park Forest. The Boutique is your premier source for today’s hottest styles. Whether you are looking for formal wear, casual wear, accessories, high-end costume jewelry, snapbacks, or Dobb hats, Teona’s Boutique carries the latest fashions. Teona’s Boutique also carries a wide range of sizes from petite to plus. Their unique inventory and low overhead allow them to offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. For additional information or store hours, call 708-283-2525.
Pictures from Saturday’s ribbon cutting at Teona’s Boutiques are available here. Story here.
Arts & Entertainment
Rotary Club of Park Forest
‘An Evening with the Kings’ Fundraising Event – Tickets Now on Sale
The Rotary Club of Park Forest will host a fundraising event titled ‘An Evening with the Kings’ on Saturday, June 18. The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the adjoining spaces of the Illinois Theatre Center and the Tall Grass Arts Gallery, 371 & 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest. The event will include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction. Entertainment will feature “Rico” – a Michael Jackson Tribute Artists Extraordinaire and Steve Lydell performing the hits of the 50’s and 60’s. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Proceeds will support the Rotary Club’s charitable endeavors across the Village and the region such as youth literacy programs, scholarships and preserving cultural arts in Park Forest. For additional information about the event, or to purchase tickets, call Club President Dan Graham at 708-748-1577.
Registration Underway for Park Forest Summer Programs
Where will your kids be this summer when school ends? If you still aren’t sure, now is the time to get them registered for one, or several, of Park Forest’s fantastic programs! Choose from tennis lessons, swim lessons, summer camps during the day, evening programs sponsored by the Park Forest Police Department in the evening, trips to see the Chicago Sky or Chicago White Sox, painting classes, summer membership at the Aqua Center, and so much more! The couch is no place for kids in Park Forest during the summer! To view a full listing of programs registering now, view the 2011 Summer Recreation Programs & More brochure. Or call Recreation & Parks at 708-748-2008.
Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:
- Tuesday, June 7 at 7 p.m. – Summer Reading Kickoff
- Wednesday, June 8 at 10:15 a.m. – LapSit for those 0 – 35 months with caregiver.
- Wednesday, June 8 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art for those 2 – 5 with caregiver.
- Friday, June 10 at 2:30 p.m. – Movie Day: “Tangled”
- Saturday, June 11 at 10 a.m. – Father’s Day/Local Author Program. Meet Olympia Field’s author, John Fountain who will discuss his new book “Dear Dad: Reflections on Fatherhood.” Autographed copies of the book will be available to purchase at the event.
For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.
Library Closing
The Park Forest Library will be closed on Sundays for the summer.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
Summer Music Series at Ravisloe Country Club – Concert #1 – Tickets Now On Sale
Imagine a warm summer evening, stars in the sky, and glorious melodies floating above the courtyard of a Spanish villa. Welcome to Summer Music at Ravisloe, an intimate series of summer concerts presented by chamber ensembles of the IPO. On Wednesday June 15, 2011 at 6:00 pm, concert #1 will feature Prairie State College’s Southland Jazz Ensemble. Ravisloe Country Club is located at 18231 Park Ave., Homewood. For additional information or to buy tickets click on the picture below.
Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest
Park Forest House Museum – Every Saturday
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is open Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. It is an original rental townhome decorated as it might have looked from 1946 – 1953 during the first five years of Park Forest. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. For additional information, visit www.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.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 36 Artists Walk, Park Forest
Tall Grass Film Series Continues – Sunday, June 12
The Tall Grass Arts Association’s Film Series continues on Sunday, June 12 with the screening of the movie ‘I Am Love.’ The film stars Academy Award winner Tilda Swinton and is set at the turn of the millennium in Milan. This beautifully photographed and elegantly told movie asks us to consider how far should one take things when it comes to love and at what price. The film will be shown beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Marcus Theatre, 1301 Hilltop Ave., Chicago Heights. A discussion will follow the screening. Tickets are $9 and can be purchased at the Marcus Theatre box office. The film is in Italian with English subtitles and is rated R.
“Shouts and Whispers: a Lifetime in Photography: by Donald Kouba” Exhibit – Through July 17
“Shouts and Whispers: a Lifetime in Photography“ by Donald W. Kouba will run through July 17. The exhibit is comprised of photographs derived from a variety of themed series or visual movements. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or gallery hours, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park
Jukebox Musical Theatre Camp Presents ‘Glee’ – Tickets Now On Sale
Tickets are now on sale for Jukebox Musical Theatre Camp’s presentation of ‘Glee’ which will take place on Friday, June 24 at 7 p.m. This showcase will be based on the soundtrack of songs from the hot TV show GLEE, such as: Don’t Stop Believin’, Proud Mary, Lean on Me, and more. Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.
CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead
Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, June 9
CAUTION will be playing every Thursday night beginning at 9 p.m. 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.
Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights
Union Street Annual Vintage Sale – Opens Friday, June 10
The famous Union Street Vintage Sale is back beginning on Friday, June 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Come shop fun and beautiful vintage clothing and accessories while supporting the local arts at the same time. Both men’s and women’s clothes will be for sale. For additional information, call 708-754-2601.
Union Street Annual Garage Sale – June 10 & 11
On Friday and Saturday, June 10 and 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., come shop this unique indoor sale and support Union Street Gallery. Sale includes household items, home and garden décor, accessories, jewelry, books, toys, tools, electronics, antiques, art, art supplies and more. Funds raised will help the Gallery stay open and free to the public as well as provide area schools with free field trips and art projects. For additional information, call 708-754-2601.
Monkey Mind Art Studio, 3 West Nebraska St., Frankfort
“My Journey” by Artist Sherri Danault – Opens June 7
“My Journey” an exhibit by artist Sherri Danault will open on Tuesday, June 7 and run through July 15th. An Artists Reception will be held on June 10th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Gallery. In her artwork, Danault explores the quiet beauty of the past, the present and the future. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information or gallery hours, call 815-464-8818 or visit www.monkeymindartstudio.com.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest
Picnic in the Pines – Saturday, June 11 – Registration Required
On Saturday, June 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., those of all ages are invited to enjoy Thorn Creek Woods in a new way and enjoy a picnic lunch beneath the majestic pines in Thorn Creek Woods. Hike out with a naturalist and discover woods lore along the way. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and a blanket to sit on; dessert will be provided. Registration is required. There is a fee of $5 per person or $15 per family. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Multicategorical Special Education Cohort Information Session—Monday, June 6 – Reserve Seat
Certified teachers interested in earning a Master of Arts in multicategorical Special Education with coursework leading to LBS 1 Unlimited Certificate are invited to attend an information session hosted by GSU. The session will take place on June 6 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Washington-McKinley School Spartan Center, 25 West 16th Place, Chicago Heights. The program will begin in Fall 2011. The cohort format enables students enrolled in the program to complete their degree on a predetermined schedule. This cohort is open to any certified teacher from any public or private school. All classes will be held at Washington-McKinley School. Twenty participants are required. For more information or to reserve a seat, call 708-534-4536 or email [email protected].
Alternative Teacher Certification Information Session – Wednesday, June 8
Learn how to earn elementary or middle school teacher certification and secure a teaching position through GSU’s Alternative Certification Program. Information sessions will be held on Wednesday, June 8 in Engbretson Hall beginning at 7 p.m. The Alternative Teacher Certification program offers three ways to earn certification and embark on a new, rewarding career in education. The program is open to college graduates with five years work experience after receiving a bachelor’s degree. The application for the program beginning Spring 2012, is December 15, 2011. For additional information, call 708-534-4399 or visit www.govst.edu/altcert.
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
Park Forest Farmers Market
The Farmers’ Market will be held each Saturday through October, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to 12 noon in the Holiday Star Theater parking lot (across the street from the Park Forest Police Department). Enjoy fresh produce, locally grown and just picked, organic produce, cheese, bakery goods along with an array of plants for your garden. In addition, the Park Forest Environment Commission will be on hand on the first Saturday of each month selling rain barrels.
Thorn Creek Audubon Society
Field Trip to Governors State University – Wednesday, June 8
On Wednesday, June 8, we will meet at 7 a.m. at Governors State University’s easternmost parking lot, 1 University Parkway, University Park to see outdoor sculptures and winged wonders. There are always surprises here but in the last few years we have consistently seen the yellow-breasted chat, the orchard oriole and the black-crowned night heron. For additional information, call Aura Duke at 708-748-6407.
Golf Outings
School District 163 to Hold Teeing Off for Education – Thursday, June 9
Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 will hold Teeing Off for Education, its first annual golf outing, at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 9 at University Golf Club, 23520 Crawford Ave., University Park. The event is designed to generate revenue that will support the continuance of funding for summer school, reading specialists, technology, enrichment programs, and the district-wide Annual Spring Musical. Teeing Off For Education will feature a deli lunch, 18-holes of golf, card games, golf lessons, dinner, live jazz music, prizes and gifts. Registration and the deli lunch begin at 10 a.m., shotgun start is at noon and dinner is at 6 p.m. Golf outing registration fee is $150 for an individual and $550 for a foursome. Hospitality and dinner only are $30. For information, and to pay golf outing fees, contact Carol Bailey at 708-668-9427.
Hallelujah Temple Golf Outing – Saturday, June 11
On Saturday, June 11 beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Chicago Heights Park District West Golf Course, 1112 Scott Avenue, both men and women are invited to participate in this golf event sponsored by Active Brothers for Christ (ABC) as a fundraiser to benefit their mentoring initiative. For additional information, call Michael Harley at 708-503-6536.
Healthy Living
Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest
Wednesday Morning Walkers –Wednesday, June 8
On Wednesday, June 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., those ages 11 – adult can enjoy light exercise as you meander through Thorn Creek Woods. Experience the arrival of spring first hand as you walk the 1.5 mile loop with a naturalist. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. This event will take place each Wednesday through June 8th and there is a fee of $2 per week per person. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.
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
Park Forest Commission on Human Relations
Seeking Nominations for Good Egg Award
The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations is looking for people who have gone beyond the call of duty for the Good Egg Award. The award honors youth and adults who have made an extraordinary commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities through human relations and human rights advocacy. The deadline for nominations is Friday, August 12. To request a nomination form, contact Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or e-mail [email protected].
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.
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.
St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 227 Monee Rd., Park Forest
St. Mary’s Family & Alumni Picnic – Sunday, June 12
On Sunday, June 12 beginning at 12 noon, former teachers, students, and friends of St. Mary’s School are invited to attend a family picnic and re-connect with old friends and make some new ones. For additional information, call 708-748-6686 or visit www.stmaryparkforest.org.
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.
Cook County Commission Holding Low-Cost Rabies Vaccine & Microchip Clinics
Cook County Commissioner Joan Patricia Murphy is currently sponsoring clinics that provide low-cost rabies vaccines and microchips for dogs, cats and ferrets. The clinics are for Cook County residents only and will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at various locations throughout the County. Vaccines and microchips will be provided for dogs and cats for $7 for a one-year vaccine; $21 for a three-year vaccine; $9 for ferrets one-year vaccine; and $10 for microchip identification. Mobile clinic services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Pet owners must present a valid Driver’s License or State ID as proof of residency. For public safety, all pets must be leashed or caged at all times. For additional information, including a listing of dates and locations, or for transportation assistance, click here.
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 and Beyond
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 Summer Recreation Programs & More Brochure; Rich Township Report; Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 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, Sertoma Centre, Inc., CAUTION, Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.
