Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of November 28, 2011


2011 Park Forest Police Officer of the Year Lee Elliot, wife Nicole and daughter
Officer Lee Elliot, here with wife Nicole and daughter Kaylee, was named the 2011 Park Forest Police Officer of the Year. (ENEWSPF)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—November 28, 2011. A discussion on expanding Park Forest’s community gardens will take place at the Park Forest Environment Commission meeting that will be held on Thursday, December 1 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. It is envisioned that the harvest from these community gardens will benefit those in need in the community and the local food pantries. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Don’t forget to bring the family for some holiday fun during Park Forest’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting that will take place on Friday, December 2 beginning at 4:30 p.m. Additional information about the event can be found in the ‘Holiday Activities’ Section below.

And when doing your holiday shopping this season, don’t forget to shop locally first. A listing of Park Forest businesses can be found in the 2011 – 2012 Business Resource Guide at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com

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 Meetings

Village Board Meeting

The Village Board will hold a Saturday Morning Rules Meeting on December 3 beginning at 10 a.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.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Commission will meet the week of November 28:

  • Thursday, December 1 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
  • Thursday, December 1 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission

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

Holiday Activities

Village of Park Forest

Holiday Tree Lighting – Friday, December 2

Bring the family for some holiday fun at Park Forest’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting that will be held on Friday, December 2 beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. There will be crafts, music and refreshments. Follow Santa outside at 6 p.m. to light the holiday trees.

Make a Difference for a Child This Christmas

The Rich Township Pantry has provided the Village of Park Forest with name tags and gift requests for 30 children. The tags and requests are available at Village Hall, 350, Victory Drive. Pick up a tag, buy a new gift, and return the tag with the unwrapped gift to the Economic Development and Planning Department on the 2nd Floor of Village Hall. Additional name tags and requests will be available on the Village’s Holiday Tree in the Lobby of Village Hall. Please bring all unwrapped gifts to the 2nd Floor of Village Hall no later than December 8.

Cedarwood Cooperative, 63 Cedar Street, Park Forest

1st Annual Cedarwood Craft Show – December 1, 2 and 3

The 1st Annual Cedarwood Craft Show will be held on December 1st, 2nd and 3rd from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Cedarwood Center 2220 Western Ave., park Forest (corner of Western Ave. and North St.). Local crafters showcasing wreaths, woodwork, jewelry, art, florals, tree skirts, candles, wall hangings, small Christmas trees, afghans, dishtowels, pot holders, scarves and other sewn creations will be available to purchase. There will also be baked goods and raffles.

Freedom Hall – Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest

Peter Mayer ‘Stars and Promises’ – Friday, December 2

‘Stars and Promises’ marks the 11th year of touring for Peter Mayer’s annual celebration of Christmas that will be held on Friday, December 2 at 8 p.m. This will be a celebration of the Christmas season in story and song, featuring a tight knit group of superb musicians that include: R. Scott Bryan, Marc Torlina, Mark Holland, Cris Walters and Maggie Estes, plus state of the art production. Truly a night of inspiring music that will lift your spirits for the Holiday Season. Tickets are $28. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

Maureen Christine’s Holiday Harmonies – A Caroling Trio – Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for the Senior Series concert featuring Maureen Christine’s Holiday Harmonies that will be held on Tuesday, December 13 at 11 a.m. Beautiful three-part harmony, traditional Victorian attire, well-known carols and holiday favorites are the perfect combination to ring in the holiday with musical cheer. Led by award-winning vocalist Maureen Christine, Cecilia Adams and Cathy Robel blend their angelic voices and bring you musical fun and holiday charm. Enjoy traditional carols, holiday favorites and even a few Hanukah selections. Accompanied by full band, this warmhearted and exciting program is sure to put everyone in a very merry spirit. Tickets are $11. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

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

Harris Bank Holiday Concerts – Tickets Now on Sale

Carmon DeLeone, Music Director Laureate, will conduct the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s Harris Bank Holiday Concerts that will be held on Saturday, December 17 and Sunday, December 18. Both concerts will begin at 3 p.m. and held at the Lincoln-Way East Performing Arts Center, 201 East Colorado Ave., Frankfort. Bring family and friends to the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s annual holiday event for all ages! The orchestra, choruses, and soloists celebrate the season: classic holiday tunes, sing-alongs, and magical surprises will get you into the spirit of the season. Don’t miss this special Southland holiday tradition – Hubert the Lion will greet you before the concert! Tickets are priced at $30 and $40. To purchase tickets, visit: https://secure.ticketsage.net.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Friends of the Park Forest Library Holiday Fundraiser – Pecans are Back!

The Friends of the Park Forest Library are holding their annual holiday fundraiser to benefit the Park Forest Library. This is the only fundraiser held during the year for the Library. Items available include:

  • Fresh Mammoth Pecan Halves for $10 per 1 pound package
  • Candy Pecans for $9 per package (choices include milk chocolate covered pecans, dark chocolate covered pecans, pecan clusters, cinnamon glazed pecans and glazed pecans)
  • Friends of the Library Mug – $6
  • Book Lovers’ Calendar – $6
  • Pecans and Calendar – $16
  • Pecans and Mug – $16
  • Mug and Calendar – $11

‘Santa’s Story Workshop’ – Saturday, December 3

On Saturday, December 3 at 2 p.m. the Park Forest Library will host ‘Santa’s Story Workshop.’ We’ll read fun holiday stories and help you write a letter to Santa. Then you can create a personalized book with your drawings and words. For additional information, call 708-748-3731.

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

Park Forest House Museum

‘Step Back Into a 1950s Christmas’ — Special December Hours

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, will be open in December for the exhibit ‘Step Back Into a 1950s Christmas.’ December hours will be on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays December 3, 1 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment. For information about Saturday, December 24, call Jerry Schnay at 708-747-3571. The donation during December is $3 for adults. Children 12 and under are free. The tour donation is waived for adults that purchase a Marshall Field’s Brick. For additional information, visit www.parkforesthistory.org or call Jane Nicoll, Museum Director, at 708-481-4252 or email at [email protected].

Marshall Field’s Park Forest Bricks and More for Sale at PF House Museum

Marshall Field’s Bricks and books on Park Forest are on sale for Holiday gift giving from the Park Forest Historical Society’s 1950s House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd., Park Forest. December hours will be on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays December 3, 1 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment. Marshall Field’s Bricks can also be purchased at the Village of Park Forest’s Recreation and Parks counter, 350 Victory Drive during regular Village hours. Bricks, books and postcards are also available for sale in the online store on the Historical Society’s website at www.parkforesthistory.org.

Rotary Club of Park Forest

30th Annual Poinsettia Sale – Place Orders by Saturday, December 3

The Rotary Club of Park Forest is embarking on its 30th Annual Poinsettia Sale. All profits go directly to fund the club’s local service projects that will benefit the youth and elderly and to Rotary international’s efforts to eradicate polio worldwide. Red and white poinsettias can be purchased for $10 each. Orders must be placed no later than 3 p.m. on December 3. For additional information or to download an order form, visit: http://www.rotaryofparkforest.org/.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

Holiday Sale to Benefit Humane Society – Through December 22

Salon Artists Gallery’s Holiday Sale will run through December 22 and will feature original one-of-a-kind artwork and unique gifts at affordable prices. 10% off items over $30. The sale will feature many artists with pottery, photography, live performances and much more. Ten percent of the sales will benefit the Humane Society. Gallery Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from noon to 4 p.m., Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-833-5108 or 708-748-3946.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest

Annual Holiday Sale – Through January 8

Tall Grass Arts Association’s Annual Holiday Sale will continue through January 8. Get creative for the holidays and consider giving the gift of art. At Tall Grass you will find jewelry, mirrors, casseroles, wooden bowls, prints, photographs, paintings and holiday decorations that are unique. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Holiday Show – Gallery Artists – Through January 7

The Holiday Show exhibit will feature the artwork of Tall Grass Gallery Artists and invited artists, many of whom have shown their work nationally or internationally. The exhibit will run through January 7. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS), Park Forest

Nature Holiday Cards & Gifts

A nesting box for use by bluebirds, house wrens or chickadees is the perfect gift for your bird-loving friends. TCAS offers a well-constructed pine box with a predator guard at the entrance hole for $15. Packets of six notecards and envelopes with original pictures of bluebirds, spring birds, wildflowers of Raccoon Grove, the common loon or a group of Illinois birds sell for $4. You can also send Holiday cards with a nature message, such as winter cardinals, a wreath with six birds, a wood duck or a bluebird with a wreath. Packets of 12 cards and envelopes cost only $7. Send ‘Audubon Adventures’ to a local classroom as a gift in honor of a friend or relative. In that way you will be giving a gift to an entire group of youngsters. A special card will announce the donation. Contact Aura Duke at 708-748-6407 to purchase your cards and gifts.

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Woodland Carols: Annual Food Drive – Saturday, December 10

On Saturday, December 10 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., help feed those in need this holiday season during Thorn Creek Nature Center’s third annual food drive. Last year’s food drive was a huge success with 50 boxes of food delivered to the Rich Township Food Pantry. Savor all-you-can-eat homemade soup while listening to a variety of winter carols sung by popular area performers. Bring a bag of groceries and the $10 per person program fee will be waived. All proceeds to the program will be donated to the Rich Township Food Pantry. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

‘Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!’ – Saturday, December 3

Celebrate the holidays with ‘Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!’ on Saturday, December 3 at 11 a.m. and Sunday, December 4 at 1 p.m. in Emerald City Theatre’s adaption of the best-selling children’s book series by Barbara Park. This show is ideal family entertainment and is part of the BGSU Center’s “Especially for Kids” series. The show runs approximately 60 minutes and is appropriate for children 3 and older. Tickets range in price from $10.50 to $15.50. Tickets can be purchased by calling 708-235-2222 or online at www.centertickets.net.

Salt Creek Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ – Tickets Now on Sale

The weather outside may be frightful, but this timeless holiday ballet sure is delightful. Employing a cast of over 75 talented local dancers, this seasonal gem will delight audiences young and old. Before the show, get your picture taken with Santa Claus, sing along with holiday carolers and enjoy holiday treats. The ballet will be presented on Saturday, December 10 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets range in price from $15 to $40 with special ticket prices for students. Tickets can be purchased by calling 708-235-2222 or online at www.centertickets.net.

Union Street Gallery (USC), 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights

Twelfth Month – Regional Exhibit & Holiday Art Sale – Opens Wednesday, November 30; Reception on Saturday, December 3

USG will open the doors to ‘Twelfth Month,’ its annual Winter Regional Exhibit and Holiday Art Sale on Wednesday, November 30. This large, colorful, eclectic and exciting show of fine art and quality crafts will run through December 23rd. 30 – 40 regional artists including USG Studio and Guild Artists, have been invited to display both wall-hanging and sculpture pieces as well as smaller items such as prints, cards, jewelry, ceramics and other decorative or functional works that would be great for gifts. All work is for sale at affordable prices. An Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, December 3 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Visitors will have plenty of time to view the art and mingle with artists and friends while enjoying holiday treats and music. For holiday Gallery hours or additional information, call 708-754-2601.

Arts & Entertainment

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

  • Monday, November 28 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Monday, November 28 AT 12 p.m. – Friends Book Discussion “I am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced” by Nujood Ali.
  • Monday, November 28  at 1:30 pm. – Basic Internet *
  • Tuesday, November 29 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Wednesday, November 30 at 7:15 p.m. – Microsoft Excel *
  • Thursday, December 1 at 10:30 a.m. – Potpourri of Lectures “Hedgehogs and Foxes: Some Washington Memories” by Pio Uliassi
  • Saturday, December 5 at 1 p.m. – Introduction to E-Readers. E-Books are coming to the Park Forest Public Library! With your Park Forest Library card you’ll be able to check out books free of charge for your E-Reader. Drop in and learn about accessing these new library titles. We’ll also have a sampling of E-readers for you to look at, and an experienced user here to help you find your way through many of the features on each reader.

*Register in Adult Services Department.

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

Library Closure

The Park Forest Library will be closed on Friday, December 2 for Staff Training.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walkway, Park Forest

‘Greetings!’ by Tom Dudzick – Opens Friday, December 2

Tickets are now on sale for Tom Dudzick’s ‘Greetings!’ which will open on December 2 and run through December 18. This heartwarming holiday comedy from the author of the smash hit ‘Over the Tavern’ tells the story of a young man who brings his New York Atheist-Jewish girlfriend home to meet his Pittsburgh Polish-Catholic family on Christmas Eve. Before the night is out, miracles will happen and everybody will question what they actually believe. The L.A. Times called it “a wonderful, wacky look at how cleverly a mixture of Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Age philosophy can flick on the electricity.” Tickets are priced at $22 and $20. There is a $1 discount for students and seniors. For additional information, show times, or to purchase tickets, call 708- 481-3510 or visit www.ilthctr.org.

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

‘In The Eye of the Beholder’ Exhibit – Through Thursday, December 8

The Christopher Art Gallery at PSC is hosting the exhibit ‘In the Eye of the Beholder’ through Thursday, December 8. Featured artists are members of the Area Artists Association of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts. The group exhibit will highlight the diversity and professionalism of the Area Artists Association, which was established in 1980 to increase the appreciation and recognition of local and regional member artists through the exhibition and promotion of their work. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-709-3636.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

2011 Health Professions Career and Internship Fair – Monday, November 28

GSU’s Office of Career Services is sponsoring the 2011 Health and human Services Career and Internship Fair on Monday, November 28 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Center for performing Arts lobby on the GSU campus. Prospective employers in the fields of physical and occupational therapy, nursing, social work, and non-profit social services will meet with job and internship candidates. The career fair is open to current students, GSU alumni, and members of the community seeking employment in these fields. Participants are advised to dress professionally and bring plenty of resumes. Representatives from both public and private institutions, organizations, and businesses interested in meeting job candidates are also welcome. For additional information or to register, call 708-235-3974 or e-mail [email protected].

Alternative Teacher Certification Information Session – Tuesday, November 29

Learn how to earn elementary or middle school teacher certification and secure a teaching position through Governors State University’s Alternative Certification Program Information sessions that will be held on Tuesday, November 29 at 7 p.m. in GSU’s Engbretson Hall. The Alternative Teacher certification program offers three ways to earn certification and embark on a new, rewarding career in education. This program is open to college graduates with five years work experience after receiving a bachelor’s degree. The application deadline for the Alternative Certification program, beginning March 2012, is December 15, 2011. For additional information, call 708-534-4399 or visit www.govst.edu/altcert.

CenterPoint Offers Workshops on Starting a Business in Illinois – Pre-Registration Required

CenterPoint at GSU is sponsoring four Starting a Business in Illinois workshops for Chicago Southland residents. The free tow-hour workshops focus on the personal, financial, and legal aspects of starting a business. Participants will learn what steps to take and what resources are available to assist new business owners succeed in today’s challenging economic climate. Workshops will be presented on:

  • Wednesday, November 30 at 6 p.m. at Markham City Hall, 16313 S. Kedzie Parkway, Markham, presented by Elliott Johnson, regional representative for GSU CenterPoint.
  • Thursday, December 1 at 9 a.m. at Lemont Village Hall, 418 Main Street, Lemont presented by Judi Mack, regional representative for GSU CenterPoint.
  • Monday, December 5 at 5:30 p.m. at Old Plank Trail Bank, 20901 S. LaGrange Rd., Frankfort presented by Judi Mack, regional representative for GSU CenterPoint.
  • Tuesday, December 6 at 6 p.m. at Markham City Hall presented by Elliott Johnson, regional representative for GSU CenterPoint.

Participants must pre-register by calling CenterPoint at 708-534-4927. For additional information, visit: www.centerpointgsu.com.

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday At GSU

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

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

Turkey Oil Drive – Thursday, December 1

With the growing trend of deep frying turkeys for Thanksgiving, the Sustainability Center at PSC is conducting a vegetable oil collection drive to help dispose of the leftover cooking oil in an environmentally sound way by converting it into biodiesel. The drive will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 1. The drop off point will be in Parking Lot C, off of Vollmer Road, and will be marked with an oil collection drive sign. Donors can bring used oil of any age or use, as long as it is delivered in a sealed container. In return for bringing in the oil and while supplies last, each donor will receive a free bottle of soap – a by-product of the biodiesel conversion process. For additional information call 708-709-7950.

Opt In to Technology at PSC

You can bridge the gap between technology and a new you at PSC’s new Opt In program that consists of two computer training centers and free classes to teach basic technological skills. One location is at the Adult Training and outreach Center in Room A145 at PSC’s main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The other location is at the Matteson Area Center’s Computer Training Lab located at 4821 Southwick Dr., Matteson. Hours for this location are Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. No matter what skill level you have or want to have, Opt In can help. Both computer labs and on-site tutors are free and open to the public. For additional information, call Lisa Zeigler at 708-709-3548 or e-mail [email protected].

Rich Township Free Basic Computer Classes for Adults

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skill classes for adults every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 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.

Healthy Living

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.

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.

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 Historical Society, 400 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

Seeking Nominations for Park Forest Hall of Fame

Nominations for the Park Forest Hall of Fame are now being accepted from the public through December 30, 2011 by the Park Forest Historical Society. Nominees are selected for consistent, beneficial service to the citizens of Park Forest over a long span of time. The official nomination form must be used and nominations must include the requested information to be accepted. Nomination forms are available at Park Forest Village Hall, the Park Forest Public Library, or the 1950s Park Forest House Museum. The Park Forest Hall of Fame Induction ceremony will be held at Freedom Hall on April 15, 2012.

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.

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.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood, Park Forest

Refreshing Times Senior’s Ministry – Friday, December 2

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

Donate Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

"Operation Hero Miles" collects unused frequent flyer miles to help military families visit service members who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are recovering in military hospitals around the world. Airline partners are: AirTran, Alaska Airlines, American, Frontier, Midwest, Northwest, United, and US Airways. To donate airline miles, visit www.FisherHouse.org.

Donate to Troops Serving Abroad

The Village of Park Forest is currently seeking the names and addresses of local military personnel currently serving overseas so that they may receive packaged donations from Park Forest residents. If you are a Park Forest resident and have a family member from your household currently deployed or if you have recently returned from a tour of duty, please call Judi Lancaster at 708-283-5608 or stop by the Manager’s Office at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.

Greening of Park Forest

Sertoma Centre, Inc., 4343 W. 123rd St., Alsip

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

If you have a used motorized wheelchair that you no longer need and would like to help a person with a disability, the Sertoma Centre will accept your donation. Contact Melanie Jones at 708-730-6206 for additional information.

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

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

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

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

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

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

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

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

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

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

Sources: Park Forest 2011 Autumn Recreation Programs & More Brochure, 2011/2012 Park Forest Fall/Winter Calendar,  Park Forest ‘Discover’ magazine, Rich Township Report, Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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