In and Around Park Forest Week of March 4, 2013

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—UPDATED March 8, 2013. Park Forest vehicle stickers and animal tags are now on sale. Vehicle stickers and animal tags must be properly displayed by April 30th. Additional information about vehicle stickers and animal tags, can be found in the ‘This & That’ section.

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

Village Board Meetings

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, March 4 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. In addition, a Saturday morning Rules Meeting will be held on March 10 at 10 a.m. at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend. Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site at www.villageofparkforest.com.

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village Commission & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commissions/Advisory Groups will meet the week of March 4:

• Tuesday, March 5 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
• Wednesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group
• Thursday, March 7 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
• Thursday, February 7 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission

Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee

Candidate Forums

The Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee will host Candidates forums on the following dates:

• Sunday, March 10 at 1:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive – Village Candidates Only.
• Sunday, March 24 at 1 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive – Library Trustees and Village Trustee Candidates

Previously held Candidate’s Forums can be viewed at: CandidateForums.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

This Week’s Events at the Park Forest Public Library

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

• Monday, March 4 at 10:30 a.m. – Imagine! Create! Participate! — This program is designed for children ages 3-5 and will include not only a story, but the use of their imaginations. It’s designed to help children develop their creativity while interacting and connecting to other children in the community. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Monday, March 4 at 11:30 a.m. – 3M Book Club: Janet Evanovich — Given the popularity of mysteries, our newest book club will have you turning your magnifying glass on novels filled with twists, trap doors and new whodunits each month. This month’s selection: “Wicked Business: a Lizzy and Diesel novel” by Janet Evanovich.
• Monday, March 4 at 2 p.m. – Basic Mouse — Learn to the basics of using a computer mouse through fun and interactive “Mouse Aerobics.” Registration required.
• Monday, March 4 at 6 p.m. — Classic Movie Monday Nights: ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ — Frank Capra made this film in 1941 before he went off to make films for America’s war effort, but it wasn’t released until 1944. Adapted from the hit play by Joseph Kesselring, this frantic black comedy shows Capra at his best as a master of mood and timing. Actresses Josephine Hull and Jean Adair reprise their Broadway performances as two gentle old ladies who poison men with elderberry wine to put them out of their misery. Cary Grant plays one nephew, a normal guy who just gets wind of their little hobby and tries to get them to stop, while Raymond Massey plays another, a villain just escaped from jail.
• Tuesday, March 5 at 10:30 a.m. – Movement & Me — Come in and enjoy time with your preschooler during this class combining movement with adventure and stories. Exercise is a key to living a healthy lifestyle. In this class parents and caregivers are able to move with their children while having a great time. (Ages 3-5). Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Tuesday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. – P.J. Story Time — Wear your pajamas & come join us for stories, crafts & games. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Tuesday, March 5 at 7 p.m. — Facebook Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.
• Wednesday, March 6 at 10:30 a.m. — Art Club (Ages 2 – 5) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, March 5 at 5 p.m. — Mouse Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.
• Wednesday, March 6 at 5 p.m. – Art Club (Grades K – 3) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, March 5 at 5 p.m. — Women in STEM: Spotlight on Aviation — Women in Aviation will be explored. Featuring Dr. Mae Jamison, Bessie Colman, & Amelia Earhart. Join us for stories, discussion and STEM activities based on flight.
• Wednesday, March 6 at 6 p.m. – Art Club (Grades 4 – 6) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Wednesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. – Reader’s Theater – Do you love dancing, acting, and singing? Would you like to put on a show for your friends and family to see? Join us every Wednesday for Reader’s Theater, where we will bring out the artist in you! Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Thursday, March 7 at 10:30 a.m. – Mother Goose Time — During this 30-minute session, babies and their parents will share nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, music and age-appropriate books. For babies ages 2 and under accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Thursday, March 7 at 5 p.m. – LEGO Club — Play and learn with LEGOs at the Park Forest Public Library! The creations the children make will be on display at the library. For boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th Grade. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31. The library is looking for donations of new or used LEGOs. Please contact the library if you would like to help with this project.
• Thursday, March 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Microsoft Word II — After the introductory Microsoft Word I, learn more about the word processing program. Registration required.
• Friday, March 8 at 3 p.m. – Wii Games — Meet up with your friends at the Park Forest Public Library for some gaming fun. The library will provide some games — YOU bring a friend. If you have a favorite game, bring it along to teach and share. Join us after school as we take a little time to have some fun! Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 3
• Saturday, March 9 at 11 a.m. – Art Club (Grades K – 3) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Saturday, March 9 at 12 p.m. – Art Club (Grades 4 – 6) — Do you love art? Well this club is for you and all creative kids are welcome. Come on in and join the club where you can discover new books, make wonderful art and meet new friends. Registration required for groups, please call 708-748-3731 ex. 31.
• Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. — Microsoft Word II Practice — The first five people to come may attend these practice sessions. There is no registration required.
• Sunday, March 10 at 2 p.m. — St. Patty’s Day Celebration – Those of all ages can enjoy holiday stories, crafts and music.

For additional information or to register for certain events, please call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, March 7

The Potpourri of Lectures series continues on Thursday, March 7 at 10: 30 a.m. with “Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Biking Along the Aegean and Mediterranean” by Al Sturges. The lecture will be held in the Library’s Ringering Room. Light refreshments will be served.

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

Switchback – American Roots – Celtic Soul – Tickets Now on Sale

Freedom Hall’s Senior Series will continue on Tuesday, March 12 at 11 a.m. when Switchback takes the stage. For over two decades, the musical partnership of Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack, known as Switchback, has been entertaining audiences around the world with the unique American Roots music blended with Celtic Soul. Tickets are $12 and can be purchase in-person at the box office, or online at www.freedomhall.org. For additional information, call 708-747-0580.

Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, March 23 at 7:30 p.m., Freedom Hall will present ‘Hand and My Honky Tonk Heroes.’ This nostalgic look at Hank Williams and his influence on country music is amazing. Jason Petty pays tribute to those who influenced Hank and those Hank influenced. Don’t miss Jason’s Obie Award winning performance as he brings Hank’s music back to life in this insightful and energetic show. Audiences and critics alike were taken back by Petty’s amazing acting ability in his portrayal of Hank Williams. The New York Post stated it best, “At times it sees as if Petty is not just offering an impression of Williams, but channeling his ghost.” Tickets are $24 and can be purchase in-person at the box office, or online at www.freedomhall.org. For additional information, call 708-747-0580.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Cellist Joshua Roman to Perform with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, 23rd of March 2013 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Avenue, Frankfort, David Danzmayr, Music Director will present ‘Oberon’ by Carl Maria von Weber, ‘Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-flat major, Op.107’ by Dmitri Shostakovich featuring Joshua Roman, Cello, and ‘Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 73’by Johannes Brahms. Tickets are priced at $55, $43, and $35 and can be purchased online at ipomusic.org/index.php/concerts.html. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.

Park Forest Historical Society, Park Forest

Step Back into the 1950s at the Park Forest House Museum

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of 21st century and revisit your past in this gem of a museum, just down the street. The museum is open Wednesdays and Saturdays in December from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., or by appointment. The admission is $5 for adults; 12 and under are free. The museum tour is free with the purchase of a Marshall Field’s Brick. Park Forest related gift ideas are available at the museum and in the online store at www.parkforesthistory.org. Convenient street parking is available in front of the museum. For additional information, call 708-481-4252.

Park Forest Plaza Print for Sale

Annabelle Gould’s print of the Park Forest Plaza is available for sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. The vibrant print is from an original watercolor, showing kids and their moms in the Park Forest Plaza, in front of the old Holiday Theatre and Golden Hanger Shop. The print can be purchased at the House Museum during normal hours of operation on Wednesdays and Saturdays or through the Society’s online store on their website at www.parkforesthistory.org. Prints are $15 each. Online purchases also required an additional $6 fee for postage and handling. For additional information on other items for sale by the Society, visit www.parkforesthistory.org.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Luise Renner Retrospective’ – Through March 31

The exhibit, ‘Luise Renner Retrospective,’ will run at Tall Grass Arts Association through March 31. The exhibit was curated by Richard Schmidt with assistance from Richard Renner. It will feature the two and three-dimensional works of artist/illustrator Luise Renner who frequently exhibited in galleries in the Chicago area and southern suburbs. Luise died in December of 2009 at the young age of 63. She left behind a large body of work. This is the first time some of her works have been exhibited. The exhibit is dedicated to her memory and presented in homage to her. The exhibit features original paintings and custom tablecloths created by Luise. Unmounted high-quality prints (giclees) will be available for purchase. The collection displays approximately 60 works. The Tall Grass Gallery is located in Downtown Park Forest, adjacent to Village Hall. Gallery hours are 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge. For additional information, call the gallery at 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

Sing Along ‘Sound of Music’ – Saturday, March 9

On Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m., get your vocal chords warmed up for this screening of the Academy Award-winning movie musical, ‘The Sound of Music’ in glorious full-screen Technicolor, and complete with subtitles so the whole audience can sing along. Come dressed as your favorite character. Audience participation kits are included with each ticket. Tickets are $15 to $25. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

Orbert Davis’ Chicago Jazz Philharmonic – Sunday, March 10

On Sunday, March 10 at 4 p.m., music from the Emmy Award-winning soundtrack from the critically acclaimed WTTW public television documentary “DuSable to Obama: Chicago’s Black Metropolis” will be performed LIVE by the CJP Chamber Ensemble, led by Orbert Davis. The presentation will integrate video highlights from the documentary, telling a timeless story of Chicago’s African-American history through its most leading citizens, scholars, artists, politicians, and business leaders. Tickets are $30. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call the GSU Center Box Office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

The Drama Group, 330 W. 202nd Street, Chicago Heights

‘The Adventures of Pinocchio’ – Tickets Now on Sale

The Drama Group Children’s Theatre production of ‘The Adventures of Pinocchio’ will run from March 20 through March 24. See the puppet who longs to be a ‘real’ boy in his many adventures. His conscience is ever present to remind him to “always tell the truth.” Good deeds and unconditional love are rewarded in the end. This one-hour attention-span-friendly children’s show will thrill young and old alike. There will be a ‘Meet & Greet’ with the characters after each show so bring your camera. Advance tickets are $6 for adults, Senior and children. Tickets at the door are $7. Groups of 25 or more can purchase tickets from $5 each. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-755-3444 or visit www.dramagroup.org.

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

‘Collaborative Vision: Selections from the Poetic Dialogue Project’ – Through March 7

The PSC Foundation is hosting ‘Collaborative Vision: Selections from the Poetic Dialogue Project,’ featuring collaborative works by teams of artists and poets, through Thursday, March 7 in the Christopher Art Gallery located on PSC’s Chicago Heights campus. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The Christopher Art Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Visits can also be made by appointment. For additional information about the exhibit or to make an appointment for a visit, contact the PSC Foundation at 708-709-3636.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

‘Mad World’ Exhibit – Opening Reception Friday, March 8

Union Street Gallery will present its Spring National Juried Exhibit ‘Mad World’ which will feature art that is absurd, surreal, and simply MAD! 35 artists from 11 different states will be exhibiting a wide variety of art including large sculpture. ‘Mad World’ will run from March 6 through April 6. The Gallery will host an opening reception on Friday, March 8 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Many of the exhibiting artists will be traveling into Chicago Heights for the reception. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For additional information, and Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

‘Not About Bombs’ – Opens Saturday March 9

On Saturday, March 9, the NVAM will host the opening of ‘Not About Bombs,’ a celebrated exhibit featuring the work by five Iraqi women artists. Admission to the NVAM will be free all day with light refreshments offered from 1 pm. to 5 p.m. A keynote address will commence at 3 p.m. with a panel discussion at 4 p.m. The show will be open to the public from Saturday, March 9 through Fall 2013. For additional information, visit the museum’s website at www.nvam.org.

IN WAR Series – Through Memorial Day 2013

In light of the ongoing war in Afghanistan and the rising need for mental health care for returning veterans, the National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM) is proud to hold its third annual IN WAR series in its new location at 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago. The third annual INWAR series examines intergenerational trauma: the passing of mass traumas from one generation to the next. Trauma takes a profound psychological and physical toll on survivors that has ramifications for decades. For additional information about the exhibit or museum hours, visit: www.nvam.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Futurist David Houle to Speak at GSU – Wednesday, March 6

David Houle, a well-known futurist, will discuss ‘Entering the Shift Age – A Look into the Future’ during an appearance at GSU on Wednesday, March 6 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Hall of Honors. Houle’s appearance is part of the University Honors Program’s Community Speakers Series. His presentation is free and open to the public. Houle believes we now live in the Shift Age, a time of transformation that will be regarded by future historians as one of the most significant periods in human history. The Shift Age, he says, is one of those times when much of humanity will change its ways of living, thinking, and interacting with one another. Houle’s latest book, ‘Entering the Shift Age,’ was released in January.

Information Session on Psychology and School Psychology Programs – Wednesday, March 6

You can learn how to earn your Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in School Psychology from GSU at a special information session on Wednesday, March 6 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Cafeteria Annex. Refreshments will be served. Classes in this new degree program will begin in the Fall, 2013. The Ed.S. degree prepares students to be highly effective school psychologists, delivering services to children, adolescents, families, and school communities. The M.A. in Psychology offers both the theoretical and clinical tracks for students wishing to continue their studies at the doctorate level or become practicing clinical psychologist. Classes are held in the evenings. For additional information, contact Renee Zdych at [email protected] or call 708-534-6979. Additional information can also be found at www.govst.edu/coe.

‘So You Think You Can Innovate’ – Thursday, March 7

Chart your course to the future at ‘So You Think You Can Innovate’ on Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m. at GSU’s Center for Performing Arts. Join internationally renowned physician and scientist Roberta Ness, the author of “Innovation Generation,” as she demonstrates how to expand your ability to generate original ideas. At GSU, Dr. Ness will discuss proven techniques to unlock innovative thinking, many of which came out of an extraordinarily successful program at the University of Texas, where she is Dean of the School of Public Health. The program was the basis for “Innovation Generation.” Her tools for innovative thinking include analogy, expanding assumptions, pulling questions apart, changing your point of view, reversing your thinking, and getting the most out of multidisciplinary groups. The discussion is free and open to the public. For additional information on Dr. Ness’s appearance at GSU, call 708-534-4130.

‘Generating Hope: Struggles, Challenges, Change…Facing Life in Spite of our Past’ – Monday, March 11

Growing up in Chicago’s now demolished Robert Taylor Homes on the city’s south side, Terry Banies learned at an early age that “black men weren’t supposed to live past the age of 23.” Banies “tried to prove them right,” but fortunately did not succeed. Today, in his second life, Banies is busy completing his Bachelor of Social Work degree and applying for admission to the Master of Social Work program at GSU. Banies is just one of several panelists to be featured at an open forum, ‘Generating Home: Struggles, Challenges, Change…Facing Life in Spite of Our Past,’ to be held on Monday, March 11 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in GSU’s Engbretson Hall. The forum will focus on the challenges and struggles of the formerly incarcerated, as well as their family members. Sponsored by GSU’s Social Work Department, and made possible by a grant from the GSU Intellectual Life Committee, the program is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Dr. Lorri Glass at [email protected].

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday at GSU

The Mobile Workforce Center’s mobile unit will be at GSU every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., parked near the university’s front entrance. Center services include resume development, access to online job boards and websites, instruction in how to conduct an online job search and improve keyboarding skills, and assistance of staff. The center is equipped with 11 computer stations with Internet access, printer, and copy machines, and is wheelchair accessible. Services are free and available to residents in all counties. For additional information, contact the Workforce Services Division of Will County at 815-727-4980.

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

Economic Forecast Breakfast to Feature Spencer L. Klein – Registration Deadine Friday, March 8

Spencer L. Klein, senior portfolio manager for MB Financial Bank, will be the guest speaker at PSC Foundation Economic Forecast Breakfast being held at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, March 15 at the Olympia Fields Country Club, 2800 Country Club Drive, Olympia Fields. A continental breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. followed by the featured presentation at 8:15 a.m. The cost is $25 per person, and advance registration is required no later than Friday, March 8 by calling 708-709-3636.

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 12 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.

Online Educational Resources

Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.

Top U.S. Universities

Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At http://www.topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.

Healthy Living

Park Forest Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

‘Alzheimer’s Disease & Caregiver Support’ – Thursday, March 7

On Thursday, March 7 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Dining on the Green 349 Main Street, Park Forest, the Park Forest Senior Advisory Commission will sponsor an educational session titled ‘Alzheimer’s Disease & Caregiver Support.’ Beverly Kimmons of the Alzheimer’s Association will lead the discussion. For additional information or to RSVP, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

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.

Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest

CPR Classes

CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: http://pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html

Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café

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.

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 program 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.

Green Events

Park Forest Environment Commission

‘Basic Canning’ Presentation – Limited Seating — Tickets Now on Sale

Based on numerous requests from members of the community, the Park Forest Environment Commission has arranged for Chef Kate Bradley to give a presentation on ‘Basic Canning’ on Monday, April 29 at 7 p.m. at the Wetlands Discover Center, 30N. Orchard, Park Forest (located on the west side of the Park Forest Aqua Center). Kate will provide an overview of basic canning techniques and familiarize participants with the equipment needed to successfully can the fruits of your summer gardens for enjoyment in the cold winter months. Participants will also enjoy light refreshments canned from Kate’s kitchen. Seating for this event is limited.  Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or on the night of the event if any remain. Proceeds from the event will be used for the benefit of the Park Forest Community Garden project. To purchase advance tickets or for additional information, call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991 or e-mail [email protected].

2013 Park Forest Community Garden Project

The Village of Park Forest will once again offer residents the opportunity to use vacant, Village-owned property for purposes of developing a community garden. Gardening groups using Village-owned lots will be reimbursed up to $370 for allowable gardening expenditures. This $370 reimbursement represents the amount that the Village would pay to have the lot maintained over the course of the summer. For additional information about the Community Garden Project, please e-mail Rosemary Piser at [email protected] or Sarah Coulter, the Village’s Sustainability Consultant at [email protected].

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

‘Reading the Landscape’ by Naturalist John Elliott – Wednesday, March 7

On Wednesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, John Elliott, a Naturalist, will present ‘Reading the Landscape.’ We are in history, and history is in us. Wendell Barry says as well that we are the land and the land is us. Based on the book ‘Reading the Landscape of America’ by the Morton Arboretum’s May Watts, this program will survey some of the cues to our history still to be found in our greatly altered modern landscape. The present is the key to the past, says the geologist. The past and present are keys to the future, the ecologist adds. Discovering and interpreting clues from our distant and more recent past can help us understand our history for our own joy of knowledge and provide valuable insights for planning and management. John Elliott retired in 2012 from a career as a naturalist, nature center director, and education manager for the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. Photographer, storyteller, and occasional poet, he teaches in the certificate programs at the Morton Arboretum, works with Bartel Grassland volunteers, and remains active as a Certified Interpretive Trainer with the National Association for Interpretation. The event is free and open to the public.

Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Spring Clean Up Day at Thorn Creek Woods – Saturday, March 16

On Saturday, March 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., those of all ages are invited to shake the winter blahs and come help in the annual spring cleaning of Thorn Creek Nature Canter. There will be indoor and outdoor work to be done in preparation for the spring season. Bring a lunch and glove and dress for the weather. Refreshments will be provided. Parts of this program will be held indoors. Outdoor work is on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. Children under age 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration for a group is required. For additional information or to register a group, call 08-747-6320.

Experience the Thorn Creek Nature Center

Thorn Creek Nature Center is housed in a historic building, originally Immanuel Lutheran Church of Matteson, Illinois built in 1862, and later Village Bible Church of Park Forest. A gothic frame country church, its notable architectural features include curved ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling and a raised pulpit. Its current attractions are displays of the preserve’s flora and fauna, a bird feeder viewing area, Eugene E. Schwartz reference library and an expanded children’s section. The Nature Center is open Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Trails are open daily year-round, dawn to dusk. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

This & That

Village of Park Forest

Park Forest Vehicle Stickers and Animal Tags Now on Sale

Vehicle stickers for the 2013-2014 year are now on sale. Vehicle stickers must be purchased and displayed on all vehicles registered in Park Forest by April 30, 2013. Vehicle stickers can be purchased at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, the Park Forest Currency Exchange, 98 S. Orchard Drive, and the Richton Park Currency Exchange, 2710 Sauk Trail. Stickers can now be purchased through the internet by clicking here. Scroll to Park Forest and follow the instructions. Note that a $3 convenience fee will be added to your transaction. Your sticker will be mailed to you. If you are eligible for a discount, you will need to come to Village Hall to purchase your sticker.

For more information on vehicle sticker sales, including details on late fees, click here.

Animal tags are also on sale and are available at Village Hall only. Animal tags should also be purchased and made visible on your pets before April 30, 2013. Please note: a current rabies vaccination certificate must be presented with your animal tag registration form.

Park Forest Baseball

Registration for 2013 Season – Now in Progress

Registration for the 2013 season of Park Forest Baseball is now in progress.  This program is open to both boys and girls from age 4 through 14. The registration will be at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive on the following dates:

• Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, March 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Complete details about registration can be found at www.ParkForestBaseball.org or call Alan or Mary Kay Joens at 708-503-1944.

Knights of Columbus-Nina Council #3602, Park Forest

Annual Lenten Fish Fry – Friday, March 8

The Knights of Columbus-Nina Council #3602 will hold their annual Lenten Fish Fry on Friday, March 8 at St. Irenaeus Church’s School Gym located at south Orchard and Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest. Serving is from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. each week. The menu includes:

• 3 piece fish dinner — $8
• 2 piece fish dinner — $7
• 2 pieces fish and 3 shrimp dinner — $10
• 6 piece shrimp dinner — $8

All sea food dinners include macaroni and cheese, green beans, coleslaw and bread. Also on the menu is a Macaroni and cheese and green bean meal for $5 for adults and $4 for children. Coffee and tea are free. Bottled water and canned pop are available for $1 each. Dessert is sold separately. There is plenty of free parking. All are invited.

Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest

Job Fair – Tuesday, March 12

The National Congress of Black Women, Metro Chicago Chapter and the Village of Park Forest will present a Job Fair on Tuesday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Faith United Protestant Church. Participants should enter the door on Indianwood Boulevard next to the US Bank. You should bring at least 40 resumes, dress to impress – no jeans or gym shoes – and be ready to interview. There is plenty of free parking available and all are welcome. For additional information, call 708-317-8657, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.villageofparkforest.com.

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.

Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights

Friday Fish Fry – Friday, March 8

Join Park Forest’s American Legion Post 1198 for fish, shrimp, wings, beef and appetizers on Friday, March 8 beginning at 6 p.m. Carry outs are available. For additional information, call Jesse Rodriguez at 708-481-3055.

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.

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

Get Your Taxes Done for Free at PSC

PSC in conjunction with the Center for Economic Progress (CEP) is offering opportunities for individuals and families meeting certain criteria to get their taxes done for free. The tax assistance will be available through April 13. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free assistance is available to individuals with incomes less than $25,000; for families with income level less than $50,000. The service is offered on a first come, first serve basis. To ensure the process goes smoothly, bring the following information: all W-2s and 1099s (if any), social security cards of Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for all family members; valid photo ID; copy of last year’s tax return (if available); bank account number and routing number for direct deposit of your refund; property tax bill; and the amount spent on college expenses. Other options offered during the tax preparation session include free help filing an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) claim, open a bank or savings account to deposit your refund, or obtain a prepaid debit card for your refund. If you have any questions, call 888-827-8511.

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 Winter-Spring 2013 Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 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.