In and Around Park Forest Week of May 11, 2015

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—May 11, 2015. It may be hard to believe but summer is just around the corner. The Village of Park Forest is now selling passes for the 2015 Aqua Center season. Since 1952, the Park Forest Aqua Center has been one of Chicagoland’s premiere outdoor pool experiences. The Park Forest Aqua Center is three pools in one, providing a quality summer experience for whatever your age. Toddlers can enjoy a beach pool, where there is plenty of sand and superb instructors who have taught thousands the techniques of swimming. Kids enjoy a 160-foot water slide, two drop slides, and a 15-foot-high aquatic climbing wall. And the east Pool Lap Swim is great for lap or casual swimming. Adults love it. The 2015 season begins on June 6. Learn more about becoming a member of the Park Forest Aqua Center in the ‘This & That’ section.  

Attention all Seniors. The 2015 South Suburban Senior Fair will be held on Friday, May 15 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This year’s Senior Fair will be held at a new venue. The Senior Fair will be held at the Richton Park Community Center located at 4455 Sauk Trail Rd. in Richton Park. Additional information about the Senior Fair can be found in the ‘Healthy Living’ 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 Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commissions and Advisory Groups are scheduled to meet the week of May 11:

• Tuesday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
• Tuesday, May 12 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
• Wednesday, May 13 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group

The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

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

2015 ‘Taste of the Center’ Gala – Tickets Now on Sale

Wine, dine and shop for a great cause—all while being entertained. GSU’s Center for Performing Arts Advisory Council is hosting a ‘Taste of the Center’ Gala featuring five live performances, five courses, and a silent auction for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. The festivities take place on Friday, May 29 starting at 7 p.m. The Center is honored to bestow its inaugural Cultural and Community Ambassador Awards to The Chicago Community Trust and educator Jean Bernstein, who will be recognized at the event for their extraordinary commitment to strengthening arts and education programs in Chicago Southland communities. Enjoy cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction featuring everything from an autographed Crosby and Nash guitar to gifts for food and wine lovers, spa goers, family experiences and more. Guests may also choose to visit the upper lobby for an Apéritif and Viewing Deck Experience of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. The five-course dinner and program will begin at 8 p.m. and take place on the stage of the Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University. The actors will share the stage with guests, as they showcase many of the Center’s programs and Chicago-based artists who will be featured in the coming 20th anniversary season, which kicks off in August. All proceeds from the evening benefit the Center’s music, theatre, dance, and arts in education programs. Center for Performing Arts has been bringing diverse and affordable programs to the Southland for 20 years. Tickets are $100 for individuals, a portion of which is tax-deductible. Tables of eight are also available for $1,000. Contact Gina Ragland at 708-235-7559 to reserve seats. Visit www.govst.edu/cpagala for more information and for menu and performance details.

DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago

‘Liminal Infrastructure’ – Opens May 14

A massive shipping container rolled through Chicago last fall, but instead of carrying cargo, it was taking stunning photographs of the city and its surrounding waterways. The resulting images are part of the exhibition, ‘Liminal Infrastructure,’ that will be on display at the DePaul Art Museum beginning May 14. The exhibit will run through August 9. Organized in collaboration with the Chicago Humanities Festival, the photographs were created using one of the world’s largest pinhole cameras, the Liminal Camera, by artists Lauren Bon, Richard Nielsen and Tristan Duke during their exploration of the Great Lakes region last October. The exhibition will include large-scale photographs of the Chicago landscape, measuring up to 8 feet on the longest side, according to Harris. The dramatic proportions are uniquely suited for extreme horizontal and vertical photos. Perfect for the prairie city that gave birth to the skyscraper, he said. The photos on display are part of the latest chapter of the Liminal Camera’s expedition across the Great Lakes region. During the Chicago Humanities Festival last fall, the artists invited people inside the Liminal Camera to experience the camera obscura technique in action and to see how they perform the photographic process. On May 14 at 4:30 p.m., the artists will recount their experience and unveil the photographs they took with the Liminal Camera in and around Chicago last fall. A public reception will follow beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event is part of the Chicago Humanities Festival 2015 spring schedule and is free and open to the public. The DePaul Art Museum is located just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://bit.ly/DPAM15.

‘Glowing Wavelengths In Between’ – Opens May 14

The DePaul Art Museum will be artist Sonja Thomsen’s ‘Glowing Wavelengths In Between,’ May 14 through August 9. In her exhibition, Thomsen utilizes an array of materials that refract and reflect light as means to creative discovery. The resulting pieces are vibrant color photographs, immersive photographic murals and faceted metallic sculptures. Thomsen’s layered works create an interactive experience for the viewer that provokes an awareness of light, space and time. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The DePaul Art Museum is located just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://bit.ly/DPAM15.

DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine, Chicago

‘The Day John Henry Came to School’ – Through May 16

The Theatre School at DePaul University will present ‘The Day John Henry Came to School’ by Eric Pfeffinger, directed by Ernie Nolan, as the final production of the 2014-15 Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences season. This production runs through May 16 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. Performances are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and Saturdays at 2 p.m.  About the play: John Henry loves technology, but doesn’t love doing his homework. If buttons and gadgets are not involved, he’s not interested. When his teacher, Mr. Gellert, is replaced by a mega-computer, Johnny couldn’t be happier. Then his steel-driving great-great-grandfather arrives for show-and-tell, and Johnny must take on the challenge of his life. This contemporary tale focuses on the value of hard work and the strength of the human spirit. Recommended for ages 8 and older, themes include: ancestry; confidence; diligence; folklore and tall tales; motivation; technology and humanity. Information about pre- and post-show educational activities and highlighted curriculum connections is online at http://theatre.depaul.edu. Free Teacher Guides also are available online or by calling the box office at 312-922-1999. The May 9 performance will be followed by a post-show discussion. Visit the website or call the box office for additional details. Tickets are $10. Subscriptions and group rates (15 or more people) are available. DePaul employees, alumni, and college students receive a discount (with ID). Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at 312-922-1999.

‘We’re Going to Be Fine’ – Opens May 15

Chicago playwright Laura Jacqmin’s ‘We’re Going to Be Fine’ will feature the Master of Fine Arts in Acting candidates in the Class of 2015, and Theatre School student Jared Hecht (BFA Playwriting, Class of 2015) will debut his play Video Galaxy.  ‘We’re Going to Be Fine’ will open on May 15 in The Sondra & Denis Healy Theatre and will run through May 24, 2015.  Previews performances will be held on May 13 and May 14 at 7:30 PM. Performance will be Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM.  For patrons who are blind or have low-vision, the performance on May 22 (7:30 PM) will be audio described with a pre-performance touch tour. Post-show discussions will occur on May 17 and May 21. About the play: When mass plague breaks out in Chicago, unskilled office worker Bidi can’t afford to stop calling into her employment agency. As the civilian population gets increasingly fractious, frightened, and freaky, who will they decide is to blame? ‘We’re Going to Be Fine’ is a paranoid dark comedy that asks: what if you had to keep temping during the apocalypse? Tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10, and student tickets are $5 with ID. Group rates (6 or more people) are available. All tickets are reserved seating. Tickets are available by calling 773-325-7900 or online at www.theatre.depaul.edu. The Sondra & Denis Healy Theatre is located at DePaul University, 2350 N. Racine Avenue (at Fullerton. The school is easily accessible via the Fullerton CTA Station and the Fullerton (74) bus.

Grande Prairie Singers, 266 Somonauk, Park Forest

‘Haydn and Mozart: Composers and Friends’ – Sunday, May 17

The Grande Prairie Singers will close its 37th season with ‘Haydn and Mozart: Composers and Friends.’ The concert will be held on Sunday, May 17 at Flossmoor Community Church, 2218 Hutchison Road. Haydn was already famous as a composer when Mozart was a child Wunderkind. But sometime around December 1783 they had the occasion to meet and developed a deep admiration for each other as musicians, composers and ultimately became great friends. Grande Prairie Singers are proud to offer you a program of smaller works from each of the composers: Haydn’s Missa in Es, In Honorum Beatissime Virginis Mariae “Great Organ Solo Mass” and Mozart’s Te Deum in C, and a few little gems, as well! If you love the Classical composers and fine organ playing, don’t miss this concert! Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door or $10 for students with an ID. Tickets may be ordered online at www.grandeprairiechoral.org or by phone at 708-481-8684.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Season Finale – Mahler 5 – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for IPO’s Season Finale Concert – Mahler 5 which will be performed on Saturday, May 30 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort. Maestro Danzmayr and the IPO will bring the season to a grand finale with a broad spectrum of genius exploring musical time as portrayed in John Cage’s controversial American classic 4’33” and Mahler’s expansive yet tender creation Symphony No. 5. Marvel at the artistry of Chicago Symphony percussionist, Cynthia Yeh, in her performance of Koppel’s masterwork for marimba Marimba Concerto No. 1. Tickets are priced at $35, $45, and $55 and can be purchased online at https://secure.ticketsage.net/websales.aspx?u=ipo&pid=251679. For additional information, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.

National Veterans Art Museum, 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

‘The Things They Carried’ – Permanent Exhibit

The National Veterans Art Museum reopened its permanent exhibit ‘The Things They Carried’ in a brand new gallery space meant to be more immersive for viewers. Inspired by Tim O’Brien’s book ‘The Things They Carried,’ this exhibit serves as a visual companion that illustrates the narrative with fine art and photography from veterans that lived the stories in the novel. Much like the book, the exhibit explores the concept of storytelling and questions how one might share the story of the Vietnam experience. The exhibit takes as its central question “how to tell a true war story” and prompts viewers to consider their personal stories and contemplate how they might share their own narratives. By literally incorporating the essential elements of storytelling: Who, Where, When, and What, ‘The Things They Carried’ begins by chronicling the Vietnam conflict through first-hand visual accounts and descriptions. The exhibit culminates in the re-creation of an authentic Vietnam-era tented shelter to bring viewers into the intimate physical experience of sleeping, living and working in the field during that time. With artworks and objects created and collected by over twenty Vietnam veteran artists, ‘The Things They Carried’ also provides visual interpretations to viewers, illustrating the war by those who were there. This form of pictorial storytelling offers insights into the individual personalities of those who served, where they were in Vietnam both geographically and environmentally, and what the cultural climate of the time looked like. Representations and artifacts come together in ‘The Things They Carried’ to offer an individuated and holistic presentation of the social and historical context of the Vietnam War. With didactic guides and lesson plans that accompany the artwork and artifacts, visitors of all ages can gain a better understanding of “how to tell a true war story” as explored in Tim O’Brien’s book, as well as explore possibilities and benefits of personal storytelling. Featured artists include László Kondor, Dean Sharp, Charles Shobe, William Myles, James McJunkin, John Hosier, Michael Harac, and Arthur Jacobs. The Museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers free admission year-round. For additional information, call 312-326-0270 or visit: www.nwam.org. 

Park Forest Historical Society, 141 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest House Museum – Moving to New Location

The Park Forest House Museum is now closed while moving from its current location at, 141 Forest Boulevard to 227 Monee Road. It is anticipated that the re-opening will take place in June and the specific date announced soon. For additional information, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

The following events are scheduled the week of May 11:

• Monday, May 11 at 11 a.m. – Storypalooza — A fun story time for all kids through the age of 6 with an adult. Siblings are welcome
• Tuesday, May 12 at 6 p.m. — Teen Advisory Board Meeting — We want YOU to join our new Teen Advisory Board (TAB) and help plan and design this new space for PF/OF teens. Ask for an application in patron services.
• Tuesday, May 12 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime with the Grand Prairie Children’s Choir — Join us for a special PJ Storytime with the Grande Prairie Children’s Choir! You will enjoy music, sing-alongs, stories and a craft. Wear your PJs out on the town! Bring along a fuzzy friend and your blanket too! Stories, activities, and more. Ages 12 and under.
• Wednesday, May 13 at 11 a.m. – Baby Time — Story time for infants to 35 months of age with an adult. This story time is designed to engage children through movement, music, stories, and more.
• Wednesday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. – Movie Night for Adults ‘Selma’ — A chronicle of Martin Luther King’s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965. For ages 13 and up.
• Thursday, May 14 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art — Ages 3-5. Bring your little artist to create their very own masterpiece! We may get a little messy so wear play clothes.
• Thursday, May 14 at 3:30 p.m. – Smart Snack Break — Stop by for a pick me up after school!
• Sunday, May 17 at 1:30 p.m. — Tail Waggin’ Readers — Drop by and read to our furry friends! Reading to a licensed therapy dog is a great way to practice reading, develop reading fluency, and have fun with a warm furry friend.

For additional information or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Park Forest Library Board of Trustees Vacancy – Applications Due Friday, May 15

A position on the Park Forest Library Board of Trustees is now vacant until the next election, which will be held in April 2017. The vacancy can be filled until that time by appointment by the Park Forest Library Board. Park Forest residents interested in applying for this Library Board Trustee vacancy may do so by submitting a letter to the Park Forest Public Library Board, c/o Park Forest Library, no later than May 15, 2015. The letter should include a description of the applicant’s background and experience, a short history of the applicant’s community involvement and a statement explaining why the applicant is interested in serving on the Library Board. The Library Board normally meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. For further information, please contact Peg Donohue at 708-748-0208 or [email protected].

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

2015 Graduate Students Exhibition – Through May 21

PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery is presenting the annual spring Graduate Students Exhibition through May 21. A reception for all the student artists is scheduled from noon to 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 29, in the gallery, located on the PSC main campus at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights. Works in all media will be presented by participating students Melinda Arce-Gudino of Homewood, Caitlin Gerritsen of Chicago Heights, Julian Graham of Park Forest, Diamond Jones of Homewood, Nicolas Naliwko of Crete, Axl Ramirez of Monee, Amy Roesch of Chicago Heights, Carole Rose of Matteson, Raymond Thompson of Park Forest, Briana Unruh of Park Forest, Steve Voigt of Manteno, Robert Walker of Matteson and Dejon Williams of Country Club Hills. The Christopher Art Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Visits also can be made by appointment. For more information about the exhibit or to make an appointment for a visit, call 708- 709-3636.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Outlooks and Insights’ Exhibit – Through June 6

Works done by Union Street Studio and Guild Artists will be featured in the exhibit ‘Outlooks and Insights’ which runs through June 6 at the Tall Grass Arts Association. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The 65 paintings, drawings, photographs, prints, sculpture and mixed media works that are included in ‘Outlooks and Insights’ represent some of the current directions Union Street artists are pursuing – from very literal or expressive observations of nature, people, animals, and objects, to personal interpretations of memories, dreams, states of mind, conflicts, puzzles and solutions, the inner visions that inspire symbolic or purely abstract responses to media and intuition. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Rainbow Café – Friday, May 15

The Rainbow Café will meet on Friday, May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at UUCC. The movie ‘Pride’ will be shown. In an unlikely alliance, striking British mineworkers draw support from a coalition of gay and lesbian activists who solicit donations to help tide over the miners’ families during the 1984 standoff with Prime Minister Thatcher’s government. The event is free and open to the public. Rainbow Café is a social event that provides a safe and welcoming environment for single or partnered gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender adults and their allies, by creating a space where they are able to socialize outside of the usual bars. The Café is open on the 3rd Friday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 10: 30 p.m. For additional information, call Dave Matteson at 708-672-8835 or 714-930-6134.

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Final Auditions for Broadway in Park Forest – Saturday, May 23

Are you looking to star in your own Broadway show? Have the ability to sing and/or dance? Your last chance to audition for Broadway in Park Forest will be on Saturday, May 23 promptly at 3:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Kim K. Tyler, former choreographer of the Chicago Luvabulls will be coming into town to train local talent to produce a live Broadway show! No experience needed. All aged are welcome. You must be available to train for 6 weeks (2 days per week). You do not need to live in Park Forest to audition. The grand finale performance will be held on Saturday, June 20. For additional information or to register for your audition, call Evelyn Sterling, Community Relations Coordinator, at 708-283-5621 or e-mail [email protected].

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

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 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

Civic Leadership Academy Workshop – Registration Now in Progress

PSC is hosting a Civic Leadership Academy (CLA) workshops on campus offering specialization tracks for elected and appointed leaders and managers in government and nonprofit agencies. The first, “Leadership for Newly Elected or Appointed Officials,” is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Monday, May 18. The second, “Fundraising & Financial Management for Nonprofits,” is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, June 9. During the May 18 workshop, attendees will learn which laws have a major impact on the administration of local government operations and discern the differing roles and responsibilities of elected officials and staff. Topics include the Freedom of Information Act, Open Meetings Act, the roles and responsibilities of elected officials and staff, and mandates from the state and federal governments. Attendees of the June 9 workshop will learn how nonprofit financial management is all about discipline to build a solid revenue base, well-supported budget, clear financial objectives and policies and the discipline to keep to the plan. The workshop is intended to help attendees evaluate where their organization is today. It is recommended to bring copies of the organization’s budget and most recent 990 form. Both workshops will be held in the Conference Center room 1318 on the college’s main campus, located at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights. Each workshop has a registration fee of $90. The CLA is offered by the Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University. PSC has partnered with CLA in response to the demand for increased services and workshops throughout the region. Participants may take individual workshops or complete a series of courses towards the goal of earning a general or specialized Certificate of Achievement. For more information or to register, visit www.cgs.niu.edu/CLA.

Kids@College Program – Registration Now in Progress

Let learning and fun continue year round by enrolling your child in Kids@College this summer. The Kids@College Program at PSC is new and improved for 2015 with week-long classes, new times, and new topics. Students ages five to 13 will enjoy six weeks of innovative and creative, hands-on learning activities with weekly themes. The curriculum is focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) curriculum areas. Courses meet from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays, June 22 through July 30, at the Matteson Area Center of the college, located at 4821 Southwick Dr. in Matteson. Week one’s theme is “Masterpieces,” where children can discover the masterpiece in themselves through discovery, curiosity and creativity. Week two features “The Big Idea,” where students can learn how to set goals, write their vision, and execute their plans. During week three, “Little Scientist,” students will discover the field of microbiology, examine the ocean and all the habitats, and examine the ecosystems. Week four’s theme is “Let’s Build It,” where students will discover the process of building from the ground up and the various jobs needed to complete a project. Week five will focus on “Super Heroes,” and will foster self-awareness and building self-esteem in each child. During the final week, “Mystery Madness,” children will use their critical thinking and problem solving skills to crack codes. Families have the option to choose individual weeks for $189 each per child, or all six weeks for $995 per child. Before and after care is available for $25 per child each week, or $150 per child for all six weeks. To register, visit www.prairiestate.edu/webadvisor and select Instant Enrollment, call 708-709-3750 or 708-709-3516, fax enrollment form to 708-709-7749, or visit the PSC Matteson Area Center in person. The enrollment form also is available online at www.prairiestate.edu/kids. For more information, email [email protected].

Summer Programs Scheduled at PSC – Registration Now in Progress

PSC will be full of activity this summer with several extracurricular programs for district high school students, including a STEM@PSC Summer Science and Math Camp for high school seniors in the PSC district, the STEM@PSC Summer Bridge Program for first-year students admitted to PSC for fall 2015 and a High School Fire Camp. A Music Tech Summer Boot Camp for Music Teachers also is scheduled.

• STEM@PSC also is holding a free four-week workshop for first-year students admitted to PSC for fall 2015 that have tested into pre-college math or English courses. Instead of spending the first semester or two working up to college-level courses, the Summer Bridge Program can accelerate college level readiness, saving students time and money. The Summer Bridge Program is scheduled 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, from July 6 to 30. The deadline to apply is June 12. For more information, visit prairiestate.edu/stem or email [email protected] or [email protected].

• The High School Fire Camp is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, June 6, at the Park Forest Training Site. The free camp provides an opportunity for high school students to explore public safety services, experience real-life skill building activities, and network with professionals in the field. Activities will include a burn demonstration, search and rescue stations, a smoke crawl, and a victim rescue. For more information, visit http://prairiestate.edu/Assets/Global/pdf/summer15-HSfirecamp.pdf. To register, email [email protected].

• The Music Tech Summer Boot Camp for Music Teachers is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, from Monday, June 15 through Tuesday, June 30. It is a two-credit hour college-level course that qualifies for PDs towards recertification. Students will learn the essentials of computer-based music production and composition using ProTools, and is taught by award-winning film and commercial music composer, Jonathan Pierre. The course is for certified K-12 music teachers only, and has a capacity of 12 students. For more information, email [email protected].

Additionally, the summer semester is starting soon at PSC, and registration is now open. Course offerings include credit and non-credit courses, courses for students from other colleges or universities that are home for the summer, and free courses for high school seniors. There are two eight-week sessions in the summer. The first begins on May 26 and ends July 17. The second begins on June 8 and ends on July 31. The college is closed on Fridays during the summer, beginning Friday, May 22. For more information or to register, visit prairiestate.edu.

South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland

Community Job Fair – Tuesday, May 19

SSC and Thornton Township are partnering to offer a 2015 Community Job Fair on Tuesday, May 19th from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. This free event is open to the public and will be held in the South Suburban College Fitness Center at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. SSC and Thornton Township invite all job seekers to participate at this special event at no charge. The following employers/service organizations have committed to attend to date, and many more are expected to confirm soon:
Abcor Home Health, Inc., Bank Financial, BMO Harris Bank, Chicago Transit Authority, Children’s Habilitation Center, Countryside Nursing & Rehab Center, Davis Staffing, Dolton School District 149, First Merchants Bank ,Homewood Police Department, Illinois Central School Bus, Illinois Dept. of Employment Security, Illinois Tollway, In Home Personal Services, Inc., Indiana Tech, Michaels Distribution Center, New Hope Center, Inc., Primerica, Providence Palos Heights, Reliable Health Care Service, Rimland Services, Shay Health Care Services, TCF Bank, Two Men and a Truck, and UPS.
SSC and Thornton Township also continues to seek employers and hiring managers to participate at this special event. The Community Job Fair is an excellent opportunity for employers to recruit upcoming SSC graduates and alumni, current students, and community residents. A minimal employer fee of $75 will include a skirted table, two chairs, and a light lunch for two representatives. There is a fee of $10 for each additional representative. For more information, please call 708-596-2000, extension 2391, or email [email protected].

Stem-4-Kids – Registration Now in Progress

SSC’s Office of Continuing Education and STEM Department are partnering to offer courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will inspire and challenge kids and young adults. SSC is pleased to offer several STEM for Kids classes at the Main Campus in South Holland in June and July for grade school and high school students.

• Graphic Design
  Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 9th-12th grade students
  Monday through Thursday, June 22-25, 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m., Main Campus Room, 4431
  Graphic design is a class that teaches art, design and technology. In this class students will use design as a creative process in communication. Students will also explore various methods used to create and combine words, symbols, and images to create a visual representation of ideas and messages. Students will use the basic elements and principles of art and also learn how to use the basics of an Apple Macintosh (MAC) computer and computer programs: Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop CS6. This class teaches the basics of Graphic Design through an illustrative and corporate view.
• PC Repair and Home Wi-Fi Installation
  Cost: $50 includes materials; open to 9th-12th grade students
  Monday through Thursday, June 29-July 2, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Main Campus, Room 3348
  Students will be introduced to the major components of a computer, how to upgrade memory, test electrical voltage in the computer, and ensure their home wall voltage outlets meet electrical standards for computers use. The students will learn the importance of certified network/Internet cables and proper installation with certification testing equipment. Students will install a home Wi-Fi router, connect an iPad to a network, setup email, and communicate with their fellow students.
• 2-D and 3-D Design
  Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 5th-12th grade students
  Tuesday through Thursday, July 7-July 9, 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m., Main Campus, Room 2368
  Students will be introduced to the field of Computer-Aided Design and Drafting; including 2D and 3D prototyping. Students will use AutoCad AutoDesk 2013 software as well as other types of software available. Students will plan and create a mechanical or architectural design.
• Robotics and Electronics
  Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 5th-12th grade students
  Monday through Thursday, July 13-16, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Instructor will meet students inside Main Campus Student Entrance
  Students will be introduced to a variety of topics related to Robotics and Electronics such as design, programming, artificial intelligence (AI) and building. This class will teach students how to build a robot using the fundamentals from electrical and mechanical engineering and computers.

First time non-credit students should visit the Admissions Office, Room 2348, or call Continuing Education at 708-596-2000 extension 2231 to get started. For questions about these classes or STEM programs at SSC, please contact Anna Helwig, STEM Dean, at 708-210-5706.

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

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.

Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street, Alsip

Free Community Education and Prevention Programs about Mental Health

Sertoma Centre’s Mental Health Services facility is offering community mental health seminars, free of charge to community groups, schools, law enforcement agencies, religious organizations, and other community groups at their location in Matteson or facility. Education Programs will include: Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) which increases public awareness of suicide and improves one’s ability to identify and refer those at risk for suicide. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education course that helps participants identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. Also included is Mental Health First Aid for Youth and Anxiety/Depression Screenings. Thanks to a grant, these educational opportunities are available at no cost to you or your organization. To arrange a free educational opportunity for your club, group, workplace, organization, or church, call Gia Washington at 708-748-1951, Ext. 418 or email at [email protected].

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

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.

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

South Suburban Senior Fair 2015 – Friday, May 15

The South Suburban Senior Fair 2015 will be held on Friday, May 15 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This year’s Senior Fair will be held at a new venue. The Senior Fair will be held at the Richton Park Community Center located at 4455 Sauk Trail Rd. in Richton Park. This event features more than 50 businesses, organizations and services that hold seniors as their main priority. Come out and gather information and talk with experts in the field of senior services. You may also win a raffle or a door prize. Coffee and refreshments will be served. Reservations are not required. If you have any questions, please call 708-748-5454. The Senior Fair is a joint venture between the Park Forest Rotary Club, Park Forest Health Department (Nurses Plus) and the Rich Township Senior Center. If you need transportation, reduced fare rides are available. Please phone Rich Township Transportation at 708-748-6727.

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch at the Senior Café

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Rich Township Senior Café 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 10 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Health Living Group – Thursday, May 14

UUCC will host a Health Living Group on Thursday, May 14 from 1 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. This month’s topic is ‘The Alexander Technique’ presented by Adeline Anderson. ‘The Alexander Technique’ is an educational method, used over 100 years that teaches how to change faulty postural habits, enabling improved mobility, posture, and performance with relief of pain, chronic stiffness, tension and stress. Endorsed by Dr. Andrew Weill, Paul Newman, Paul McCartney and many more. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Yoga Classes by Karen Nielsen – Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays

Yoga classes by Karen Nielsen are available at UUCC on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No reservations needed. Drop-in fee is $10 per class and the 6th one is free. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Qigong with Jim Kobus – Most Thursdays

UUCC will host Qigong with Jim Kobus on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the church. This class will usually meet on Thursdays but there may be exceptions, so if you are interested in attending, please send an email to Jim Kobus at [email protected] so he can notify you when class will NOT be held. There is a suggested donation of $5 per class. Please bring your own water. It is recommended that you eat dinner after class, not before. For additional information, please call 708-799-1925 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Buddhist Meditation – Saturdays

Learn to enjoy the simple and straight-forward practice of meditation. Please join us for sitting and walking meditation in the Zen and Theravadan Buddhist traditions. This is an on-going event led by Steve McCabe and Beverly Feldt will be held on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at UUCC. There is no cost but a free will offering is most appreciated (proceeds go to UUCC). For additional information contact Steve McCabe at 708-465-3116 or Beverly Feldt at [email protected].

Green Events

Park Forest Environment Commission, 350 Victory Drive

Sustainable Saturday Event – May 16

Roses will be the topic of discussion at the Sustainable Saturday Event on May 16 beginning at 9:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. This free lecture, presented by the Village of Park Forest in collaboration with the Park Forest Environment Commission, Thorn Creek Nature Center and the University of Illinois Extension provides residents with gardening education from experts. For additional information, call 708-748-1112.

Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers

Come walk the trails with Wednesday Morning Walkers every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Follow the forest’s seasonal changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature firsthand on two miles of Thorn Creek’s winding trails. Trails can be wet or icy or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. This weekly program is free and open to those 13 years of age and older. Registration is required two days before your first walk. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320.

Prairie Sampler Work Day – Monday, May 18

The Prairie Sampler Work Day will be held on Monday, May 18 from 9:30 a.m. to Noon. Make a difference in a natural environment! Get down and dirty and help Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension Service care for Thorn Creek’s Prairie Sampler. Located in front of the Nature Center, the small prairie that was nurtured by the late Jim Marzuki needs your help with weeding, pulling tall goldenrod, and trimming out woody plants. Then, we will plant and water the newly acquired plants. For additional information call 708-747-6320 or visit www.tcwoods.org.

Become a ‘Friend of Thorn Creek’

Friends of Thorn Creek Woods is the citizen activist group responsible in very large part for preserving and securing the dedication of the Thorn Creek Woods as an Illinois Nature Preserve. Friends’ volunteers continue to provide support in so many ways: staff the nature center on weekends; trail work; displays; leading hikes; special events; cleaning; pruning; artwork; music; research; and so on. Friends is a voice for the Woods and preservation values, donates funds for equipment and sponsors an annual meeting, Garlic Fest and Earth Day. Members receive a quarterly newsletter. Annual membership in Friends is $10. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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.

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

Park Forest Famers’ Market – Every Saturday Through October

The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October.  The Market hosts 22 full spaces with a variety of fresh flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery goods, herbs and dairy products, food and entertainment. Local businesses are also on hand at the Market selling artwork, garden ornaments, jewelry and more. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market accepts EBT/Link, WIC, and Senior Nutrition Coupons. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is located in the parking lot closest to 271 Lakewood Blvd, at the corner of Lakewood Boulevard and Cunningham Drive, just across from the Park Forest Police Department.

This & That

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

Secretary of State Services at GSU – Tuesday, May 26

The Secretary of State’s Mobile Service Unit will be at GSU on Tuesday, May 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. Services available at the mobile service unit include driver’s license and State ID renewal, replacement, and corrections; vehicle sticker sales; passenger and b-truck license plates; vehicle title and registration; parking placards for persons with disabilities; and organ/tissue donor information. In addition, vision tests and the written driver’s license exam can be taken. No driving tests will be given. The services provided are available to all qualified Illinois residents. State law allows driver’s license renewal up to one year in advance. Proper identification is required for new and duplicate driver’s licenses and state ID cards. Acceptable forms of payment include personal checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover credit and debit cards. Governors State University is located at 1 University Parkway, University Park, Illinois. For information, visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

Community Service Awards – Nominations Due Friday, May 22

Thousands of people in the PSC district give generously of their time and talent to make the community a better place. To honor these individuals, PSC is accepting nominations for two community service awards, one to honor a community member and another to honor a PSC graduate. The first is the Dr. James H. Griffith Community Service Award, given to a 2015 PSC graduate. Nominees should be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to the community. The award is named after former Trustee Dr. James H. Griffith, who served for 25 years on the PSC Board of Trustees. The second award is the Michael R. Monteleone Community Service Award, given to a community member of the PSC district. Nominees must be a person or group who has contributed in an extraordinary way to education through community service, as either a volunteer or a community leader. A nominee’s service efforts should be within the PSC district, although additional activities in other areas would be recognized. Also, the nominee should not be employed in the community service or public service field. The award is named after former Trustee and Board Chair Michael R. Monteleone, who served on the Board of Trustees for 21 years, from 1981 to 2002. All nominations must arrive at the PSC President’s Office no later than Friday, May 22. To receive a nomination form or for more information, contact Pat Trost, administrative director, President’s Office and Board of Trustees at 708-709-3627 or [email protected].

Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive

2015 Park Forest Aqua Center Passes – Now on Sale

Passes are now on sale at the Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive, for the 2015 Aqua Center season which begins on June 6. Since 1952, the Park Forest Aqua Center has been one of Chicagoland’s premiere outdoor pool experiences. The Park Forest Aqua Center is three pools in one, providing a quality summer experience for whatever your age: Toddlers enjoy a beach pool, plenty of sand area, and superb instructors who have taught thousands the techniques of swimming; Kids enjoy a 160-foot water slide, two drop slides, and a 15-foot-high aquatic climbing wall; and the East Pool Lap Swim – great for lap or casual swimming. Adults love it. At the Park Forest Aqua Center, you feel the comfort and community of home and the fun, relaxation, and excitement of vacation all at the same time! Additional Information:

• 2015 Aqua Center Membership/Day Party Brochure PDF Document
• 2015 Aqua Center Swim Lessons/Programs Brochure PDF Document
• 2015 Aqua Center Rules Brochure PDF Document

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Part-Time Office Administrator Position at UUCC

Applications are currently being accepted for a part-time position of Office Administrator at Unitarian Universalist Community Church. Strong computer skills are a definite plus, especially experience with Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Word, Mail Merge, Outlook, and Excel. A demonstration of computer skills may be requested. Also, good communication skills, the ability to manage several projects at once, and a willingness to be a team player are necessary for the person who fills this position, which will represent UUCC to our members and the public. Someone local is preferred. Applicants should submit their resume and a cover letter addressed to the Board of Trustees, through the UUCC office. Contact: [email protected] or 708-481-5339.

Dances of Universal Peace – Sunday, May 17

Dances of Universal Peace will be held at UUCC on Sunday, May 17 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. We join our voices in singing sacred phrases and Divine Names from many spiritual traditions while moving in circle dances and walking meditations. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call Pat Segner at 708-748-2217.

Sacred Communication Workshops with Reverend Henrietta Byrd – May 23

UUCC will hold a Sacred Communication Workshop with Reverend Henrietta Byrd on May 23. The Workshop will take place from noon to 3 p.m. at UUCC. This transformative Workshop will help you in identifying and dissolving mental and emotional blockages; learning to use your authentic voice; defining authentic friendships; and more. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Reverend Byrd at 312-593-4732.