Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of May 10, 2010


Tooth fairy

Mayor Ostenburg recognized student artists from SD 162: Amani Malvin-Taylor, Erica Satchell, Arianna Kelly, Ivy Weihert, Darriana Greer and Karah Polk. The students painted rain barrels were selected for the 2010 Village Sticker. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL–(ENEWSPF)–May 10, 2010. At last Monday’s Village Board’s Rules Meeting, Finance Director Mary Dankowski introduced the draft Fiscal Year 2010/2011 Budget. The overview focused on the budget process, schedule format and key points. Copies of the draft budget are available at the Park Forest Library for review. The Board will convene budget review sessions throughout the month of May where Department personnel will discuss their respective sections of the budget with Board Members. All review sessions are open to the public and residents are encouraged to attend. The complete budget review schedule is provided in the ‘Village of Park Forest Meetings’ section of this week’s column.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in our community during the upcoming week, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.

Village of Park Forest Meetings

Village Board Meeting

The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, May 10 at 8 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.

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

Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Village Commission will meet this week:

  • Youth Commission – Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Commission on Human Relations – Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m.

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

Park Forest Village Board 2010/2011 Budget Review Schedule

Date & Time Discussion Topics
Monday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. Budget Introduction & Overview; Financial Summary & Challenges
Tuesday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m. Police Department; Fire Department; Economic Development; DownTown; TIF; Capital Projects
Thursday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. Public Works Department; Administration/Finance
Tuesday, May 18 at 6:30 p.m. Health Department; Recreation & Parks; Community Development
Saturday, May 22 at 9:00 a.m. Outstanding Issues
Monday, June 14 at 8:00 p.m. First Reading/Public Hearing
Monday, June 28 at 8:00 p.m. Budget Adoption

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

Arts and Entertainment

Park Forest Historical Society

Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard (Corner of Forest & Fir)

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum is in an original rental townhome, built in 1947-1949 by American Community Builders. The museum provides a nostalgic trip down Memory Lane for anyone who lived in the 1950s or 1960s, or for those interested in that period. Visitors are encouraged to open drawers, cupboard and closets to discover period treasures inside. Contents of the house, furnished as though a young veteran and his family of small children occupy it, include dolls, toys, dollhouses, books, dishes, serving pieces, furniture and clothing from the period. When is the last time you said, “Hello,” to Howdy Doody?

The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Group tours are by appointment. Call 708-748-3731.

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Parkway

The Glenn Miller Orchestra – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. see that the Big Band era is alive and well on the Center’s stage with the best band in the business playing your favorites –In the Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Moonlight Serenade, String of Pearls, and more. Tickets are $23, $36, and $43.

You can also enjoy a delicious, pre-theater dinner at Scrementi’s Restaurant, 276 Chicago Road, Steger. Dinner includes salad, beef, pasta, chicken, coffee and dessert all for $25 per person (excluding tax/tip). Advance reservations are required through the Center box office.

For more information or to purchase tickets or make dinner reservations, call 708-235-2222 or email [email protected].

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway

‘You’ll Never Get a Second Chance’ Art Exhibit – Through May 17

The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU is pleased to present ‘You’ll Never Get a Second Chance,’ exhibition of graduate degree candidate Christopher Clark of Kankakee. The exhibit will be on display until May 17 and is free and open to the public. ‘You’ll Never Get a Second Chance’ is a series of multi-layered, photographic screen prints in which the artist scrutinizes the minutia of small-town culture. By translating his photography into elaborate screen prints, Clark conveys the affection he feels for the commonplace sights and everyday people of modern Midwestern America. The Gallery is open Monday and Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, please call Javier Chavira at 708-534-4021 or e-mail [email protected].

Southland Area Theatre Ensemble (SLATE) at GSU

Auditions for “The Wedding Singer” – May 16 & May 18

SLATE at GSU will be holding auditions for this summer’s musical production of “The Wedding Singer” on Sunday, May 16 starting at noon, and Tuesday, May 18, starting at 5 p.m., in Sherman Recital Hall at GSU. Persons wishing to audition should visit the SLATE website at www.slatetheatre.org to download the audition form and view character descriptions and casting requirements. Those auditioning should prepare a one minute vocal selection that best demonstrates their vocal range from either a pop-rock musical such as “The Wedding Singer,” “Footloose,” “Tommy,” “Rent,” or a 1980s pop, rock, or power ballad. They should bring sheet music – singing a cappella will not be permitted – and comfortable clothes and shoes for a dance audition.

Auditions are by appointment only. Interested persons can make appointments by calling the audition hotline at 708-235-2824. In addition, visit the SLATE website to fill out the audition and conflict sheets to turn in when you arrive for auditions. Auditions will last at least 2 hours to allow completion of both the vocal and dance segments. Callbacks are scheduled for Sunday, May 23 and are by invitation only.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Two Worlds: Old and New – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, May 22 at 8 p.m. conductor Carmon DeLeone and violinists Hal Grossman and Elizabeth Huffman will perform Two Marches and an Interlude (Francis Poulenc), Concerto for Two Violins (J.S. Bach) and Symphony No. 9 in E minor, op. 95 ‘From the New World (Antonin Dvorak). The concert will take place at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 18899 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort, IL. Tickets are priced at $50, $40, $30 and $15. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights, IL

Pairs Exhibit – Through May 14

This new exhibit will focus on pairs of works by each artist that relate very closely to one another, through subject, style, size or color. The works will be hung as partners, inviting comparison and study of the similarities and differences, transformations and growth that developed as the artists pursued an idea or concept. Artists in the exhibit will present drawings, paintings, photographs, sculpture, and missed media pieces in this lively and wide-ranging exploration of subjects and styles. Gallery hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from Noon to 4 p.m., and the second Friday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 708-754-2601.

Union Street Fine Art Fundraiser – Friday, May 14

Union Street Gallery has received a generous donation of a piece of art by award winning artist Eve Jensen entitled ‘Meditation in Flight.’ The piece will be raffled off with proceeds to benefit the Gallery. Raffle tickets can be purchased for $10 each. The raffle will be held on Friday, May 14 at 8:45 p.m. during the closing reception for the Pairs Exhibit. The lucky winner will get to take the piece home that night. To purchase a raffle ticket, visit the gallery or call 708-754-2601.

‘Planting Intentions, Reaping Creative Rewards’ – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., learn how the power of positive thinking combined with specific habits can have amazing results. This workshop will help you to observe and hone your own thoughts and habits to pave the way to realizing your dreams. Individual and group exercises using affirmation brainstorming and stream of consciousness collage will provide participants will skills and ideas on which to build. Supplies for the collage project will be provided but feel free to bring your own found image file, pictures that represent what you like and what you wish for in life. The workshop fee is $45 and will be conducted by Artist and Creativity Life Coach Jeff Stevenson. Space is limited. To register, call 708-754-2601 or e-mail [email protected].

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

PSC Vocal Jazz Ensembles – Monday, May 10

On Monday, May 10 at 8 a.m., the PSC Vocal Jazz Ensembles will perform a free concert at PSC’s BCEC Auditorium. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.

PSC Jazz Pioneers Jazz Combo – Tuesday, May 11

On Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m., the PSC Jazz Pioneers Jazz Combo will perform a free concert at PSC’s BCEC Auditorium. For additional information, call 708-481-7774.

Sertoma Centre, Inc. Big Event 2010 – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Sertoma Centre, Inc. will hold the Big Event 2010 at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115 St., Merrionette Park. Supported by Southtown/Star Newspaper and the Aileen S. Andrew Foundation, the Big Event offers great food and a great time for everyone. You can enjoy live entertainment, music, celebrity judges from the sports world and TV/Radio, Big Raffle with a $5,000 Grand Prize, many cash prizes and lots of activities for the children. Magician and juggler Dave Fleming will be on stage dazzling children and adults alike with his amazing skills. There will also be the Firefighters Cook-off Competition. Ticket prices are Adults $10 for entry fee donation/food sample tickets, children 12 and under $5 and children under 3 are free. All proceeds from the event benefit programs at Sertoma Centre in Alsip, IL.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Thorn Creek Audubon Society

Lake Renwick Field Trip – Wednesday, May 12

On Wednesday, May 12 we will view the spectacular display of nesting Great Blue Herons, Black-crowned Night Herons and Great Egrets at Lake Renwick at the scheduled viewing time from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. We may also stop at Messenger Woods to see wildflowers. On the way home we will stop at Pilcher Park to see spring birds and have a picnic lunch. Meet at the Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood, at 7 a.m. and bring your lunch. For additional information, call Aura Duke at 708-748-6407 or e-mail at [email protected].

Wooded Island Field Trip – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 the annual trip to Jackson Park will take place. In the past, many exciting birds, such as Hooded and Black-throated Blue Warblers have been seen. Guides will be Glyn and Sylvia Dawson. We will convene for lunch at a Hyde Park neighborhood restaurant. For carpool arrangements or additional information, call Charlie Habecker at 708-747-6061.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Junior Ecologist Club – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 10 a.m. to noon, children ages 11 – 15 can discover the woods in a new way and join naturalists to explore the woods and track seasonal changes. There is a fee of $5 per child. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Trail Work Days – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., give back to Thorn Creek Woods and help staff and volunteers with much needed trail repairs. Community service groups welcome. This event is for those 15 years of age through adult. Please register with Tara Janisch at 708-747-6320 or e-mail at www.tcwoods.org.

Rich East High School, 300 Sauk Trail, Park Forest

Community Classes – Saturday, May 15

As part of its receiving a $232,000 School Improvement Grant from the Illinois State Board of Education, Rich East High School is sponsoring a series of classes that will be open to all Park Forest residents, including Rich East students. The final series of classes will be held on Saturday, May 15 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Classes in the following areas will be available:

  • Computer Proficiency,
  • Careers that Work,
  • Yoga, Line Dancing Boot Camp,
  • Weight Training,
  • Culinary Arts/Soul Kitchen,
  • Chorus (Join the Rich East Community Choir), and
  • Reading.

Lunch will be served and daycare provided. For more information, call 708-679-6100 weekdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway

Graduate Business Program Information Session – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the GSU Cafeteria Annex, learn about the many graduate programs offered in the College of Business and Public Administration. Faculty members and advisors will be available to discuss the Masters in Business Administration, the Master’s of Science in Management Information Systems, the Master’s of Science in Accounting, and the Master’s in Public Administration degree programs offered at GSU. Information on admission requirements, taking the GMAT, and financial aid will also be provided. The session begins with a continental breakfast and registration at 9:30 a.m. and continues with a brief program and opportunity to meet with advisors, faculty and an admissions counselor. Tours of the university will also be available. For more information or to RSVP, call 708-534-4391 or e-mail [email protected].

Holiday Star Theater Scholarship Program for Arts and Media Majors – Application Deadline May 17

The Holiday Star Theater, 340 Main St., Park Forest, is offering $12,500 in scholarships for the Fall 2010 semester to local high school and college students who plan to or are currently majoring in film production, theater management, performing arts or related fields at a local Chicago-area college or university. Applicants will be evaluated based on a variety of factors including GPA, level of community involvement and other outstanding factors with preference given to residents of Park Forest and its surrounding communities. Additional information and the application form can be downloaded at www.theholidaystartheater.net/scholarship.pdf. Applications must be submitted no later than May 17, 2010.

Park Forest Nurses Club

60th Anniversary Celebration – Thursday, May 20

The Park Forest Nurses Club will celebrate its 60th anniversary on Thursday, May 20th at Carlo’s Restaurant, 560 W. Lincoln Highway, Chicago Heights. ‘Special’ guest and speaker will be Clara Barton, famous army nurse, humanitarian, teacher, and co-founder of the American Red Cross. A ‘wall of memory’ exhibiting photos of members, as well as books depicting the activities of the club will be prominently displayed. The program will also include the awarding of nursing scholarships for deserving area students and installation of Officers for the 2010 – 2011 year. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. For additional information, call Barbara Principali at 708-481-8387.

Shop Locally

Park Forest Farmers Market

The Park Forest’s Farmers Market will be held each Saturday through October from 7 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Fresh garden plants and produce, bakery goods, gourmet cheeses, herbs and eggs will be available for sale. Local businesses will also be on hand with a variety of artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more. Meet your friends at the Farmers Market for breakfast or lunch and shop locally.

During the Farmers Market, local civic groups can give demonstrations, hold fundraisers or other events at no charge but must register in advance. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit www.pfhealth.net.

Park Forest Spring Savings Coupons

Spring savings coupons were recently mailed to all Park Forest residents. Participating merchants include: Lifetime Automotive Repair, Quality Classic Health & Fitness Center, The Image of Inc. Barber Shop, Superior Cabinet & Window, Shrimp Max, Freedom Hall, and Last Minute Printing & Copy Center. Remember to support our local Park Forest merchants. If you did not receive coupons in the mail, pick some up at Village Hall.

Holiday Star Theater, 340 Main St., Park Forest

Free Movie Every Tuesday for Seniors

Every Tuesday at 1 p.m., Seniors can attend a free movie at the Holiday Star Theater. Afternoon tea will be served following the movie. Call 708-283-9096 for each week’s scheduled movie.

Free Popcorn Tuesdays

If you love popcorn, bring your own popcorn bowl to the Holiday Star Theater any Tuesday and they will fill it up for you with a drink purchase. For information on ticket prices and/or movie times, call 708-283-9096.

Doomsday Zombie Fest 2010

The Holiday Star Theater will be hosting Doomsday Zombie Fest 2010. The goal is to break the current Guinness World Record for the most Zombies gathered at a single location. Starting Friday, October 22 at 5 p.m., the Holiday Star Theater will be showing Zombie Movies for 72 straight hours on huge outdoor screens. Zombies are encouraged to bring their tents and camp out.

On Saturday, October 23, the attempt to beat the World Record will take place. Bring your best Zombie costume, make-up and props. There will be prizes, contests, ‘Zombie Walk,’ vendors, and on-site make-up artists.

This event is free and open to the public however, the Holiday Star Theater requests that you bring a non-perishable food or household item for charity. Additional information about the event can be found at http://doomsdayzombiefest.com/.

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.

Greening of Park Forest

B3 Bottles, Park Forest

The United Sates leads in consuming bottled water, drinking 26 billion liters a year (that’s only one, 8 ounce glass per day). It is estimated that Americans go through 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour with 86% of the plastic bottles used never getting recycled. B3 Bottles, a local Park Forest business, has a solution to this problem. B3’s stainless steel bottles can be filled with Park Forest’s award winning water or other hot/cold beverages of your choice, and then cleaned and re-used for a lifetime. To learn more about B3 Bottles and pricing information, call Laura Fitzgerald at 708-748-0934.

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

South Suburban Family Shelter (SSFS) is seeking cell phone donations for their ongoing fundraising program. Proceeds from the collection fund the critical programs and services provided to families who experience domestic violence. All victim services are provided free of charge and are available in English and Spanish. Cell phone collection sites currently include:

  • SSFS Administrative Office, 18139 Harwood, Homewood, IL
  • Bergstein’s NY Deli, 200 Dixie Highway, Chicago Heights, IL
  • Doyle Designed Salon, 2630 Flossmoor Rd., Flossmoor, IL

All donations are tax deductible and receipts are available at collection sites. For more information about SSFS or the fundraising drive, please contact Ms. Meilach at 708-794-2140, extension 303.

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

Do you have old televisions, computers, video games or other electronics or household appliances that need to be recycled? Want to know how to properly dispose of old or unused medication? Click on the “Recycling” icon found on the top of eNews Park Forest and you will find useful information on proper recycling/disposal that will not only be good for the environment, but in some cases, earn you a few dollars as well.

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

The Park Forest Health Department and Environment Commission have partnered to provide information on the proper disposal of bio-waste such as used syringes or lancets (medical sharps). Begin by purchasing a Sharps container to dispose of your medical sharps for $10 at the Park Forest Health Department. Return the filled container to the Park Forest Health Department and purchase a new container. Call Brenda Walker at 708-748-1118 for more information.

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is conducting a used cell phone and accessory collection drive to benefit the families and programs of the South Suburban Family Shelter. Donated items can be placed in the collection box located in the lobby of Village Hall. For more information, call Denyse Carreras at 708-283-5603.

Go Green with a Free Tote Bag

The Village of Park Forest encourages residents to visit Village Hall to pick up an environmentally friendly canvas bag that can be used for your day-to-day shopping needs. These bags are free while supplies last with only two expectations: 1) that residents have a valid email address so that future environmentally conscious concepts can be shared by the Village’s Environment Commission; and 2) that bags are limited to one per household. For more information on this program, visit the Village Manager’s Office on the second floor of Village Hall of call 708-748-1129.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers – May 12

On Wednesday, May 12 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. The Walkers will meet each Wednesday through June 16 and there is a fee of $2 per week. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive (lower level)

H1N1 Vaccine Available at Park Forest Health Department

The Park Forest Health Department has a limited supply of H1N1 vaccines available. H1N1 vaccines will be given by appointment only on Mondays and Fridays while supplies last. The fee for the vaccine is $15 and must be paid in cash at the time the vaccine is given. Medicare primary is accepted and Medicaid accepted for those 6 months through 18 years of age. No Managed Care enrollees accepted.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 708-481-1118. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

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.

This & That

Shirley Green Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty, Park Forest

Senior Fair – Friday, May 14

On Friday, May 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, the Shirley Green Rich Township Senior Center will hold its annual Senior Fair. This annual event offers seniors the opportunity to browse and learn about services and social events available to them. Refreshments are provided and lunch is available at noon. For additional information or to make reservations for lunch, call Sally at 708-747-2700.

Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 Orchard , Park Forest

Grow Your Garden Day – Saturday, May 15

On Saturday, May 15 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., come and attend a plant sale/exchange. Learn gardening tips from the Park Forest Garden Club. Rain barrels will be available for purchase or to order from the Park Forest Environment Commission. Whether you are a first-time or experienced gardener, there will be something of interest for everyone. For additional information, call 708-748-6261.

Park Forest Economic Development & Planning

Business Networking Mix – Pre-register by Friday, May 14

On Wednesday, May 19 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., a Business Networking Mix will be held at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. This free event includes a full complimentary breakfast. Immediately following breakfast will be 30 minutes of lively networking followed by an update on the Village’s economic opportunities. Come and join the fun while expanding your circle of contacts. There will be a $100 advertising bonus for the person who brings the most guests. For additional information or to register, call Monica DeLord at 708-283-5617 or online at http://pfbusinessmix051910.eventbrite.com/

Rainbow Café

Monthly Meeting – Saturday, May 15

The Rainbow Café is an opportunity for single or partnered gays, lesbians, bisexuals or other sexual minorities, and their allies, over age 18 to meet one another and socialize in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Those attending are encouraged to bring some non-alcoholic drinks and a dessert or snack to pass, or bring a financial donation. However, neither is mandatory.

The Rainbow Café is held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Unitarian-Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore Dr. For more information, call 708-481-5539 and connect to the Rainbow extension.

Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest

Connect Café – Thursday, May 13

On Thursday, May 6 from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m., the Connect Café is a place for the community to hang out, have a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate, listen to music, talk, play a game of chess, or just relax. Kid friendly, also for Mom’s and Dad’s. This event will be held every Thursday. For more information, call 708-748-1995.

Girlfriends Unlimited – Friday, May 14

Girlfriends Unlimited is a chance for women of all ages to get together and grow in all areas of their life. This event will be held on Friday, May 14 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will occur every 2nd Friday of the month with a variety of topics, games and food. This will include children and youth programming; dinner included. For more information call 708-748-1995.

Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway

All Nations for Haiti Fashion Show – Tickets Now on Sale

Supporting the rebuilding and empowerment of Haiti after the devastating earthquake is the goal of the “All Nations for Haiti” Fashion Show at GSU on Friday, May 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Sherman Hall. GSU students representing many different nations, will take part in the fashion show. Styles representing various cultures from around the world as well as current fashions will be presented. All proceeds will go to the Joseph Assignment which works closely with relief and development organizations in Haiti. Advance tickets are $10. Tickets purchased at the door are $15. For ticket information, call 708-235-3969.

Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp – Pre-Registration Required

CenterPoint at GSU is hosting its semiannual, award winning Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp on Wednesday, May 19, 2010. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with registration beginning at 7:45 a.m. Seating is limited to 100 participants and pre-registration is required.

The Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp is offered at no cost to veterans. Families and business partners of those serving in the military may attend for $25. The event is co-sponsored by Phoenix Business Solutions, Accion Chicago, GSU, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The day features presentations and seminars from industry professionals, opportunities for free one-on-one counseling, lunch with a panel of ex-military business owners who share their entrepreneurial journey, and access to CenterPoint’s numerous entrepreneurial services and resources.

For additional information or to register, call 708-534-4929 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.

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.

Sources: Park Forest 2010/Spring/Summer Calendar of Events, Park Forest 2010 Summer Recreation Programs & More; Park Forest Winter/Spring 2010 Recreation Programs & More, Village of Park Forest, Center for Performing Arts, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Freedom Hall, Tall Grass Arts Association, Union Street Gallery, Park Forest Rotary Club, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, and Holiday Star Theater websites.


ARCHIVES