Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of May 2, 2011


Folks on Spokes Easter Ride
Margaret Vincent and John Johnson, age 7, both from Chicago, biked 17 miles Sunday at the Folks On Spokes Annual Easter Ride. The event began and ended in DownTown Park Forest. About 500 cyclists rode. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)

Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)-May 2, 2011. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market, which is celebrating its 38th year, begins Saturday, May 7. The Farmers’ Market will be held each Saturday, May through October, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to 12 noon in the Holiday Star Theater parking lot (across the street from the Park Forest Police Department). Enjoy fresh produce, locally grown and just picked, organic produce, cheese, bakery goods along with an array of plants for your garden. In addition, the Park Forest Environment Commission will be on hand on the first Saturday of each month selling rain barrels.

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

Village of Park Forest

Village Board Meeting

The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, May 2 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall. A highlight of Monday’s meeting will be the swearing-in of Mayor Ostenburg to an unprecedented fourth term. Trustees Mae Brandon, Gary Kopycinski, and Georgia O’Neill will also be sworn in at that time. In addition, a Saturday Morning Rules meeting will be held on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to Noon 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 here.

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site here on ENEWSP,.and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Commissions and Advisory Boards will meet the week of May 3:

  • Tuesday, May 3 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
  • Wednesday, May 4 at 7 p.m. – Economic Development Advisory Group
  • Thursday, May 5 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
  • Thursday, May 5 at 7 p.m. – Environment Conservation Commission

The meetings will take place at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Spring blossoms
Blossoms bloom in Park Forest Saturday. (Gary Kopycinski)

Mother’s Day Events

Salon Artists’ Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

“Art Sale” for Mother’s Day Gifts

From May 3 through May 7 you can purchase a memorable gift for your Mother at Salon Artists Gallery. 15% off art objects priced $20 or more. Gallery hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from noon to 4 p.m. For additional information, call Pat Moore at 708-833-5108 or Bev Szaton at 708-748-3946.

Park Forest Community Relations

Mother & Daughter’s Brunch and Magic Show – Saturday, May 7

A Mother and Daughter Brunch and Magic Show will be held on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. If you are looking to have a day out with your mother, daughter or a few girlfriends, be sure to join us. Tickets are $15 per person. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Evelyn Sterling at 708-283-5621 or email [email protected].

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Mother’s Day Tea – Saturday, May 7 – Registration Required

Join us on Saturday, May 7 at 2 p.m. for a light afternoon tea complete with tastes of sandwiches and pastries. You’ll learn about the history of tea and tea etiquette. Then the kids will make a special gift for Mom while Mom relaxes and makes a scrapbook page. Grandmas and Aunties are also welcome! Registration in the Youth Services Department is required by Thursday, May 5. For additional information or to register by phone, call 708-748-3731.

First Baptist Church of Park Forest, 80 N. Orchard Dr., Park Forest

Mother’s & Daughters Luncheon & Program – Saturday, May 7

On Saturday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., join us for a light luncheon and guest speaker Reverend Jeanetta Ross. For additional information, call Sandra Richards at 708-748-2566 or visit www.fbcparkforest.org.

Church of the Holy Family, Sauk Trail & Orchard Dr., Park Forest

Spring High Tea – Saturday, May 7

On Saturday, May 7 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., celebrate Mother’s Day with us and enjoy a musical interlude and great surprises. Experience the elegance of a traditional high tea while you savor the delightful variety of tea foods. Tickets are $12 and advance ticket purchase is suggested. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Beverly Sailer at 708-283-7118.

mural
One of the DownTown murals.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

  • Tuesday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. – Computer Class: Mouse Basics *
  • Tuesday, May 3 at 3:30 p.m. – Tutoring Available
  • Tuesday, May 3 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for children of all ages
  • Wednesday, May 4 at 10:15 a.m. – LapSit for those 0 to 35 months
  • Wednesday, May 4 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Art for those 2 to 4
  • Wednesday, May 4 at 11 a.m. – Craft in America/Made in Park Forest
  • Thursday, May 5 at 3:30 p.m. – Children’s Book Week Celebration
  • Thursday, May 5 at 3:30 p.m. – Tutoring Available
  • Thursday, May 5 at 7:15 p.m. – Computer Class: Microsoft Word 1 *

For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.

* NOTE: Those wishing to attend computer classes must pre-register. Contact the Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731 to register.

Library Closure

The Park Forest Library will be closed on Sunday, May 8 in honor of Mother’s Day.

Museum Adventure Passes – Presented by Macy’s — Available at Park Forest Library

Check out free passes to area museums with your library card. Ask at the Patron Services desk for more details. There is a limited amount of passes and are available first come, first serve and are good through August 31, 2011. For a list of participating museums, to find out what discoveries await you, get directions to the museum, and review each museum’s pass entry offer, including any restrictions that may apply, visit http://www.museumadventure.org/

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

’25 Years with Carmon’ – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for ’25 Years with Carmon’ which will be held on Saturday, May 21 at 8 p.m. at Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem, Frankfort. We honor the Silver Anniversary of our Music Director, Carmon DeLeone, and his contributions to the Chicago Southland with works by Leonard Bernstein and George Gershwin! Guest soloists for the concert include pianist Kevin Cole and vocalist Benjamin Warschawski.  Works to be performed include: Bernstein‘s Overture to Candide and selections from Mass “Make our Garden Grow” from Candide and Gershwin’s Cuban Overture and Rhapsody in Blue. Tickets are $30, $40, and $50 and can be purchased at: https://secure.ticketsage.net.

Park Forest Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

Park Forest House Museum – Every Saturday

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is open Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. It is an original rental townhome decorated as it might have looked from 1946 – 1953 during the first five years of Park Forest. Donation is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. For additional information, visit www.parkforesthistory.org or call Jane Nicoll, Museum Director, at 708-481-4252 or email at [email protected].

Bricks from Former Marshall Field’s Store for Sale

Bricks from the former Marshall Field’s Store in DownTown Park Forest are on sale at the Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard. Bricks are $15 each or two for $25. Each brick comes with a certificate of authenticity and a brief history of the store. Bricks can be purchased at the Museum during Museum hours which are Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information, visit: www.parkforesthistory.org.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 36 Artists Walk, Park Forest

 “Half the Sky” Exhibit Celebrations Women’s History Month – Through May 8

“Half the Sky” an exhibit celebrating Women’s History will run through May 8. “Half the Sky” derives its name from the Chinese saying that “women hold up half the sky.” It is a celebration of Women’s History Month with a national juried exhibit. For additional information or gallery hours, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

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

“LeNouveau Cirque” Art Exhibit –Through Saturday, May 7

The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU is pleased to present new printmaking work from “LeNouveau Cirque,” the thesis exhibition of graduate student Diana Lynch. The exhibit will be on display through May 7. A public reception will be held on Thursday, May 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to celebrate the artist and her achievement. These events are free and open to the public. The Gallery is located in the E wing of the University and is open Monday and Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 9 p.m. For additional information, call 708-534-4021.

Southland Theatre Ensemble (SLATE) Holding Auditions for ‘Ragtime’

SLATE at Governors State University has announced that it will present the musical ‘Ragtime’ as its 2011 summer production. Auditions will take place May 18 and 19 in GSU’s Sherman Recital Hall. There are roles for six principal cast members, 10 supporting players, and 23 ensemble members. Persons wishing to audition should be prepared to present a one minute song selection that demonstrates their vocal range. A dance call will follow the vocal audition. For additional information or to schedule an audition, visit: www.slatetheatre.org

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

“Mama’s Night Out” – Saturday, May 7

Tickets are now on sale for “Mama’s Night Out” which will take place on Mother’s Day Eve, Saturday, May 7 at 8 p.m. The tree finalists from Nick at Nite’s “The Search for the Funniest Mom in America” will share big laughs in one great girls’ night out. The will be a complimentary pre-show girl party beginning at 6:30 p.m. with drink specials, raffle prizes, beauty treatments and more. Exquisite boutique items will be available to purchase. Tickets are priced at $44, $37, and $29. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, May 5

CAUTION will be playing every Thursday night beginning at 9 p.m. at Harte’s Saloon, 9858 S. Artesian. If you are a fan of the Grateful Dead, Phish and great musical jams, check out this band. For more information, call Harte’s Saloon at 708-424-2618.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights

“Into Bhutan” – Through May 14

“Into Bhutan,” an exhibit of photographs and traditional arts from the country of Bhutan is now showing through May 14. “Into Bhutan” draws you in to the magic of the country of Bhutan with its gently flapping prayer flags, friendly and charming people, incredible biodiversity and majestic mountains. Its deeply lived spirituality is evident everywhere. Bhutan is isolated in the Himalayan mountains south of Tibet and north of India. Bhutan only opened itself to visitors in the late 1970s. Even now the number of guests permitted each year is highly regulated. For a schedule of related events, visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-754-2601.

“Into Harmony” – Through May 14

“Into Harmony” located on the second floor of the Gallery features the work of Union Street Gallery Studio Artists and Guild Artists. The exhibit will run through May 14. For Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-754-2601.

Richton Park Library, 405 Sauk Trail, Richton Park

jazz
Rich East students perform at last week’s Diversity Dinner held at the high school.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

“How Understanding Emotional Intelligence Can Improve Results in Business and Education” – Monday, May 2

Noted author, economist, and educator Dr. Daniel Goleman will speak at GSU on Monday, May 2 in the Center for Performing Arts. His presentation entitled “How Understanding Emotional Intelligence Can Improve Results in Business and Education” will draw on the research and conclusions presented in his best-selling book “Emotional Intelligence.” According to Goleman, emotional intelligence is a greater determinant of success than IQ or graduate school. Two and a half CEUs and CPDUs are available for people attending the lecture. Dr. Goleman will sign books and CDs following the presentation. Seating is limited. Tickets are $25 and registration is required. To register, call 708-534-4024 or email registration to [email protected].

Alternative Teacher Certification Information Session – Wednesday, May 4

Learn how to earn elementary or middle school teacher certification and secure a teaching position through GSU’s Alternative Certification Program. Information sessions will be held on Wednesday, May 4 at 7 p.m. in GSU’s Hall of Honors. The program is open to college graduates with five years work experience after receiving a bachelor’s degree. For additional information, call 708-534-4399 or visit www.govst.edu/altcert.

CenterPoint at GSU

Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp – Limited Seating – Pre-Registration Required

CenterPoint at GSU is hosting its semiannual, award-winning Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp on Wednesday, May 18 from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. 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. Designed by military veterans, this event is the only one of its kind to be held in the Chicago southland and offers support to the families and business partners of our service men and women currently on active duty. The day features presentations and seminars from industry professionals, opportunities for free one-on-one counseling, breakfast with a panel of ex-military business owners who share their entrepreneurial journey, and access to CenterPoint’s numerous entrepreneurial services and resources.

Seating is limited to 100 participants and pre-registration is required. For additional information or to register, call 708-534-4929 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest

Roots and Shoots – Saturday, May 7

On Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon, children ages 5 – 10 are encouraged to join us and interact with the environment, their community and the world around them in this monthly program. There is a fee of $5 per month per child. This event is held on the first Saturday of every month. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leonard Robinson Family Services Center, 22013 Governors Highway, Richton Park. Participants will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet skills, résumé building skills, and more. Classes are open only to residents of Rich Township. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.

Tire swing
April showers make way for May blossoms and flowers in Winnebago Park. (Gary Kopycinski)

Green Events

Thorn Creek Audubon Society

Field Trip to Gibson Woods – Wednesday, May 4

On Wednesday, May 4 at 9 a.m., we will head to Gibson Woods where we should see white-throated sparrows, scarlet tangers, indigo buntings, hermit thrushes and more. Take Rt. 30 to Indianapolis Blvd., go north to 165th St., then east to Parrish Ave. Turn north, go to the end of Parrish to the Nature Center. Participants should be prepared for inclement weather and the possibility of wet conditions. Binoculars are advised. For additional information, call Pat Strange at 219-923-5164. To car pool, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847.

Park Forest Environment Commission & Unitarian Universalist Church

“Vanishing of the Bees’ – Save the Date

A screening of the environmental film “Vanishing of the Bees” will take place on Saturday, May 28 at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 70 Sycamore, Park Forest. Honeybees have been mysteriously disappearing across the planet, literally vanishing from their hives. Known as Colony Collapse Disorder, this phenomenon has brought beekeepers to crisis in an industry responsible for producing apples, broccoli, watermelon, onions, cherries and a hundred other fruits and vegetables. Commercial honeybee operations pollinate crops that make up one out of every three bites of food on our tables.

Vanishing of the Bees follows commercial beekeepers David Hackenberg and Dave Mendes as they strive to keep their bees healthy and fulfill pollination contracts across the U.S. The film explores the struggles they face as the two friends plead their case on Capitol Hill and travel across the Pacific Ocean in the quest to protect their honeybees. Filming across the US, in Europe, Australia and Asia, this documentary examines the alarming disappearance of honeybees and the greater meaning it holds about the relationship between mankind and mother earth. As scientists puzzle over the cause, organic beekeepers indicate alternative reasons for this tragic loss. Conflicting options abound and after years of research, a definitive answer has not been found to this harrowing mystery.

A discussion will follow the screening of the film. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. You may bring a snack to share if desired. Donations will be accepted. For additional information, call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers –Wednesday, May 4

On Wednesday, May 4 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., those ages 11 – adult can enjoy light exercise as you meander through Thorn Creek Woods. Experience the arrival of spring first hand as you walk the 1.5 mile loop with a naturalist. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. This event will take place each Wednesday through June 9th and there is a fee of $2 per week per person. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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

Senior Citizen Weekday Lunch

Senior citizens of all income levels are invited to lunch weekdays at the Community Nutrition Network (CNN) site located inside the Rich Township’s Shirley J. Green Senior Center. The CNN site is open to all south suburban residents, including those living outside of Rich Township. Participants must be 60 years of age or older. The suggested donation for lunch is $2.50. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Bingo begins at 11 a.m. For additional information or to make a reservation for lunch, call 708-747-2700.

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

Walk-In Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. For fee information or questions, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

Babies, teens and adult immunization and flu and pneumonia clinics will be held on Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details or to schedule an appointment, call 708-748-1118. The Health Department is a low cost provider for children and adult immunizations.

Blood Pressure Screening

A free Blood Pressure Clinic is held at the Park Forest Health Department Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Walk in or call ahead at 708-748-1118.

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

Dance to Better Health at GSU

The Recreation and Fitness Center at GSU is encouraging everyone to dance their way to better health and fitness by offering three fun classes that teach dance steps while toning muscles and burning calories. The classes are:

  • Stepping Lessons – Offered Wednesdays, May 4 through June 8 from noon to 1 p.m.
  • Belly Dancing Lessons – Offered Wednesdays, May 4 through June 8 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Zumba – Offered Wednesdays, May 4 through June 8 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

No experience is required for any of these classes. The cost is $25 for Recreation and Fitness Center members and $40 for non-members. For additional information and to register, call 708-534-4556.

Free Counseling Services Available

Today, individuals and families face economic and social pressures as well as communication difficulties that frequently disrupt family unity and the ability to cope. Counseling is one of the most important tools for understanding and coping. Free, individual, family and vocational counseling is available through GSU’s Division of Psychology and Counseling as part of its training program for advanced graduate counseling students. Faculty members, who are also licensed counselors, supervise the sessions. Counseling sessions are conducted on campus in total confidentiality. For more information, call 708-534-4545 or visit www.govst.edu/counselinglab.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private programs available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.

This & That

Park Forest Economic Development and Planning

Business Networking Mix – Wednesday, May 4

On Wednesday, May 4 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., you can expand your circle of contacts by attending the Park Forest Business Networking Mix at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. This free event includes a full complimentary breakfast. For additional information, or to RSVP for the event, phone 708-283-5617 or visit: http://pfmaybusinessmix.eventbrite.com. There is a $100 Advertising Bonus Prize for the person who brings the most guests.

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

Free Java Tuesdays

All are invited to Faith United Protestant Church for FREE Java Tuesdays. Visitors are asked to go to the Indianwood Boulevard side entrance between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. for free curbside service or to come and sit a bit. The event will continue each Tuesday as a form of outreach to the community throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call 708-747-1330.

Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest

C4 Underground Youth Gathering – Every Tuesday & Thursday

Youths in grades 6 and up are welcome to join us every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for fun and games, group discussion and a variety of activities. For more information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

Current Events Topic Group – Every Monday

Join us every Monday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as we gather to talk about God, us, the world and how they all work together. Roots and Wings is located behind Celebration Ministries. For more information, contact Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

 “Dance With Me” Family Dance – Saturday, May 7

Roots and Wings and B.A.S.E. program present their First Annual “Dance With Me” Family Dance on Saturday, May 7. The event will be held at Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest. Come and enjoy music and dancing, photo fun and other activities. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are priced at $8.00 per couple and $1 for each additional family member. For additional information or to purchase tickets, contact Celebration ministries at 708-748-1995.

Crete Reformed Church, 24755 Country Lane, Crete

60th National Day of Prayer – Thursday, May 5

Crete Reformed Church will be observing the 60th Annual National Day of Prayer at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 5. This year’s theme will be “A Mighty Fortress is our God.” Please join us in praying for all of our elected officials and public servants of our great country, our state and our local communities. Child care will be available. For additional information, call 708-672-5400.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood, Park Forest

Refreshing Times Senior Ministry – Friday, May 6

On Friday, May 6 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., adults 55 and older are invited to join us for this monthly support fellowship that combines food, interactive Christian Bible study, informative workshops, arts and crafts, and birthday celebrations. This event is held on the first Friday of each month. For additional information, call Mattie Morgan at 708-503-6536.

Cook County Commission Holding Low-Cost Rabies Vaccine & Microchip Clinics

Cook County Commissioner Joan Patricia Murphy is currently sponsoring clinics that provide low-cost rabies vaccines and microchips for dogs, cats and ferrets. The clinics are for Cook County residents only and will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at various locations throughout the County. Vaccines and microchips will be provided for dogs and cats for $7 for a one-year vaccine; $21 for a three-year vaccine; $9 for ferrets one-year vaccine; and $10 for microchip identification. Mobile clinic services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Pet owners must present a valid Driver’s License or State ID as proof of residency. For public safety, all pets must be leashed or caged at all times.

For additional information, including a listing of dates and locations, or for transportation assistance, click here.

Rainbow Café

Monthly Meeting – Saturday, May 7

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. on the 1st Saturday of each month at the Unitarian-Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore, Park Forest.

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.

School District 163 to Hold Teeing Off for Education

Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 will hold Teeing Off for Education, its first annual golf outing, at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 9 at University Golf Club, 23520 Crawford Ave., University Park. The event is designed to generate revenue that will support the continuance of funding for summer school, reading specialists, technology, enrichment programs, and the district-wide Annual Spring Musical.

Teeing Off For Education will feature a deli lunch, 18-holes of golf, card games, golf lessons, dinner, live jazz music, prizes and gifts. Registration and the deli lunch begin at 10 a.m., shotgun start is at noon and dinner is at 6 p.m. Golf outing registration fee received before May 16 is $130 for an individual and $500 for a foursome. After May 16 the fee is $150 for an individual and $550 for a foursome. Hospitality and dinner only are $30. For information, and to pay golf outing fees, contact Carol Bailey at 708-668-9427.

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights

Donations Needed for Annual ‘Garage’ Sale

Union Street Gallery is in need of items to sell at its Annual Garage Sale Fundraiser which will be held on June 10 & 11. Funds raised by the Garage Sale help support free exhibitions, events and free field trips for local schools. All Garage Sale donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be provided. Acceptable items include, but are not limited to: household, antique, vintage, kitchen, garden, décor, holiday, electronics, art, art & craft supplies, jewelry and other accessories. Please NO clothes (vintage clothes accepted), TVs, heavy furniture, or malfunctioning electronics. Drop off your donations of new, used or unwanted items to the Gallery during regular gallery hours – Wednesdays & Thursdays from noon to 5 p.m., Fridays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-990-7724.

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.

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.

Sources: Park Forest 201 Winter-SpringRecreation Programs & More; Park Forest Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Recreation Programs Brochure; Rich Township Report; Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Unitarian Universalist Community Church, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Sertoma Centre, Inc., CAUTION, Union Street Gallery, Richton Park Library, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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