Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—November 8, 2015. On Wednesday, November 11 we will celebrate the Veterans Day Holiday – a day set-aside to honor all those that have served in the military. Be sure to take some time to think about these brave men and women that have served so nobly to protect the freedom that we have in this country.
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 Hall Closure – Wednesday, November 11
Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 in observance of the Veterans’ Day Holiday.
Village Commissions & Advisory Boards
The following Park Forest Commissions are scheduled to meet the week of November 8:
- Tuesday, November 10 at 6:30 p.m. – Commission on Human Relations
- Tuesday, November 10 at 7 p.m. – Youth Commission
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 (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Ghashee w Mashee (The Dumbass) – Tickets Now on Sale
NGM Entertainment presents Ghashee w Mashee (the Dumbass) on Saturday, November 14 at 8 p.m. As if Im Hussein hasn’t already endured sufficient setbacks and struggles to fill years of stage plays, playwright Najee Mondalek sets her up for another crisis – dealing with the ignorance of her know-it-all husband. Tucked in between the lines of the main story are other issues that affect the Arab American community: divorce for infertility, drug abuse, conflict between two generations, welfare fraud, and more. Remaining tickets are priced at $45 and $85. BUY TICKETS For additional information, call 708-235-2222.
Chévere de Chicago – Tickets Now on Sale
On November 21 at 8 p.m., the Center for Performing Arts will be ‘en fuego’ when composer, virtuoso pianist and master harmonica player, Howard Levy, his long-time comrades in the Latin/jazz/funk/blues band, Chévere de Chicago for a night filled with Latin inspiration. The band will also welcome special guest Gammy-nominated Trumpeter, Victor Garcia (of CALJE, Chicago Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble). What does Chévere (SHEH-ver-ay) mean? It’s an expression that means everything’s OK. Everything’s fine, awesome, the best…Everything’s cool. And so they are. Chévere de Chicago is one of Chicago’s hottest bands. As Chicago’s leading Latin/Jazz/Funk/Blues Band, Chévere mixes Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, Jazz, Blues, and just about everything else together into an exciting and unique collage of sound. Characterized by high voltage percussion and compelling original compositions, Chévere has performed in and around Chicago and the Midwest for more than 30 years. Tickets are just $28 and can be purchased:
Online: CenterTickets.net
By Phone: 708-235-2222
In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Box Office Hours: Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open to 6p.m. on Thursdays) & 2 hours prior to all performances
DePaul University Art Museum, 935 West Fullerton, Chicago
‘Idol Structures’ – Through December 20
Advertisements permeate public landscapes with billboards, signs and different forms of mass media. ‘Idol Structures,’ an exhibition of sculpture and photography by Chicago artist Matt Siber will run through December 20 at the DePaul Art Museum. This new body of work emphasizes the physical structures that are meant to stay invisible and passive while helping to relay the image, text, or graphic to the consumer. The sculptures and photographs featured in the exhibition are designed to make you more aware of your environment as you go about your daily life. Siber, who teaches advanced digital imaging at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, has been working on this type of artwork since he was a graduate student. The sculptures are modeled after the photographs by using fine craftsmanship to reconstruct the signs out of wood and florescent tubes. Some of the sculptures are almost to scale, with the largest one measuring 14 feet tall. ‘Idol Structures’ is supported by a grant from the David C. and Sarajean Ruttenberg Arts Foundation. More about Matt Siber at http://siberart.com/projects/structures. The DePaul Art Museum is located just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://museums.depaul.edu.
DePaul University Fullerton Stage Theatre, 2350 N. Racine Avenue, Chicago
‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ – Through November 15
The Theatre School at DePaul University will present August Wilson’s “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” at the Fullerton Stage Theatre. The production, directed by Phyllis E. Griffin, runs through November 15. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. About the play: It is 1910 and the Holly’s boardinghouse welcomes the descendants of freed slaves heading north in search of opportunity, identity and a place to call home. When a mysterious man and his daughter arrive, the residents share the struggle of reconciling their pasts in order to create a new future. “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” is the second play in August Wilson’s “The Pittsburgh Cycle” 10 part series, chronicling the lives of African-Americans throughout each decade of the 20th century. Tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10 and student tickets are $5. Subscriptions and group rates are also available. All tickets are reserved seating. Tickets are also available online at http://theatre.depaul.edu or by calling the box office at 773-325-7900. For patrons who are blind or have low-vision, the performance will include an audio description November 15 at 2 p.m. with a pre-performance touch tour. Call 773-325-7900 for more information. The performance on November 15 at 2 p.m. will also be interpreted in American Sign Language. For additional information call TTY at 773-325-7975. November 11 at 7:30 p.m. is USO of Illinois Night. U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families can attend the performance for free. Visit www.tixfortroops.org to reserve tickets, or call 773-325-7900. Additional special events include post-show discussions on November 8 and 12.
DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 East Balbo Drive, Chicago
‘Esperanza Rising’ – Through November 14
The Theatre School at DePaul University will open the 2015-16 Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences series with ‘Esperanza Rising’ by Lynne Alvarez, based on the book by Pam Muñoz Ryan, music by Victor Zupanc, directed by Lisa Portes and with musical direction by Mark Elliott. Based on the award-winning book, ‘Esperanza Rising’ is recommended for ages 8 and up. Esperanza loves fancy dresses, pretty dolls and birthday parties, but when tragedy hits her home in beautiful Mexico, she is forced to flee to the United States where things are very different for her. Facing new challenges, Esperanza learns to take care of herself and her family. In the process, she discovers her own power to create a new home. Complimentary teacher guides for ‘Esperanza Rising’ are available online for educators and interested audience members. These include activities and discussions for before and after the performance, which highlight core learning goals. Themes from this production include: culture, customs and traditions, home, hopes and dreams, immigration, justice, perseverance, prejudice, principles, social studies, society and class. The production will run through November 14 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre. Performances are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and Saturdays at 2 p.m. 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. If patrons require wheelchair accessible and/or companion seating or have any other hearing or vision needs, please let the box office agent know when reserving tickets, so that the theatre staff can ensure an excellent visit to the theatre. DePaul’s Merle Reskin Theatre is located at 60 E. Balbo Dr., in Chicago. For information about parking, please contact the box office. The theatre is accessible via CTA busses (3-King Drive, 29-State Street, 146-Michigan/Museums and others), and CTA ‘L’ stops (Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Purple and Pink).
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
Russian Masters – Tickets Now on Sale
The IPO will perform selections from Russian Masters on Saturday, November 21 at 8 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 South Harlem Avenue, Frankfort. Performances will include: Lera Auerbach ‘Icarus’; Rachmaninoff ‘Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini – Di Wu, Piano’; Tchaikovsky Suite from ‘Swan Lake’; and Stravinsky ‘Firebird Suite.’ Tickets are priced at $55, $45, and $35. In addition, IPO has and introductory offer where “we pick the seats” and will seat you in the best seats available and hold your tickets at will call for pick up before the concert. These tickets are priced at $25. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-7774 or visit www.ipomusic.org.
National Veterans Art Museum, 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
‘Tactical Formations: Collective Practice in the Veteran Art Movement’ – Through January 30
The NVAM will feature its newest exhibit, Tactical Formations: Collective Practice in the Veteran Art Movement through January 30. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Tactical Formations takes the basic military strategy of organizing troops into units to carry out tactical missions during combat and applies it to the practice of forming and operating art collectives in order to achieve socially grounded goals through artistic production. The exhibit explores three art collectives: The Vietnam Veterans Arts Group (VVAG), The Dirty Canteen, and the NVAM Teen Council. The VVAG first formed in 1981 when a group of Vietnam veterans began making artwork as an artistic response to their experiences of war. The VVAG was unique in launching the first exhibition composed exclusively of artwork made by combat veterans. The Dirty Canteen collective formed in 2013, and includes veterans from the Gulf War, Kosovo, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, who strive to create and maintain open dialogues about past and current military engagements. Finally, the NVAM Teen Council represents a growing group of high school students who create artwork while developing skills in leadership and museum practices in collaboration with veteran artists. These three groups represent NVAM’s foundation, its growing population of post-Gulf War veterans, and its future leaders and artists. For additional information, call 312-326-0270 or visit: www.nvam.org.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
Library Closure – Wednesday, November 11
The Park Forest Public Library will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 in observance of Veterans’ Day.
The following event is scheduled the week of November 8:
- Monday, November 9 at 11 a.m. – Sunrise Story Time — Jump start your morning with a series of stories that are sure to get you moving. Ages 12 and under.
- Monday, November 9 at 4:30 p.m. — kids’ zone Science Club: Game Your Way to Mars! — Game your way to Mars! Jois us as we explore ways to launch/land a rocket on Mars with experiments provided by the Museum of Science and Industry Chicago. We’ll also learn how to survive on Mars and even build a model rover that could explore Mars’ surface! Sign up Today! Registration is required, Grades 3rd-5th.
- Tuesday, November 10 at 7 p.m. –Pajama Story Time — Share special moments with your child through stories, crafts, and more. Wear your pj’s and wind down from a busy day. Ages 12 and under.
- Thursday, November 12 at 22 a.m. — Toddler Art — Bring your imagination, creativity, and throw on some old clothes to bring out your inner Picasso through art projects and more… Some projects may involve paint. Ages 3-5.
- Thursday, November 12 at 3:30 p.m. – Art in the Afternoon — Unleash your inner artist. Drop in to create an amazing project using different tools and techniques with oil pastels. Ages 12 and under.
- Friday, November 13 at 10:30 a.m. — Fiber Arts Circle — Meet and mingle with local knitters, crocheters, and quilters. Share stories, swap yarns, and more.
- Friday, November 13 at 3:30 p.m. – Readers’ Theater — Do you love dancing, acting and singing? Would you like to put on a show for your friends and family to see? Join us for Reader’s Theater, where we will bring out the artist in you! Ages 12 and under.
- Saturday, November 14 at 10 a.m. – Coffee with a Cop
- Saturday, November 14 at 1 p.m. – Scrabble Game Day — Join us for an all-ages day of Scrabble fun. Don’t miss the raffle!
- Saturday, November 14 at 2:30 p.m. — Thanksgiving Make & Take — Join in creating some fun Thanksgiving crafts! Ages 12 and under.
For additional information or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Potpourri of Lectures – Thursday, November 12
The Potpourri of Lectures will be held on Thursday, November 12 at 10:30 p.m. in the Library’s Ringering Room. This week’s topic is Feminine Artists of the Expressionists Movement” with Joyce Semmler. For additional information call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
‘Action/Reaction’ Exhibit – Through December 3
PSC is hosting “Action/Reaction,” works by a collective of veteran artists who call themselves Dirty Canteen through Thursday, December 3, in the Christopher Art Gallery, located on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. An artists’ reception is scheduled from 4:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, November 12. Veteran musician Eugene Vineyard will perform. 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. The gallery will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 26. For more information about the exhibit or to make an appointment for a visit, call 708-709-7738.
2015 Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Jazz Festival – Saturday, November 14
PSC is hosting the 2015 Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Jazz Festival from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, November 14, in the Barnes & Noble College Auditorium, located on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. The event is an annual festival of jazz bands and combos from schools in the conference, who will perform and be rated by a panel of jazz clinicians. Schools represented include College of Lake County, Elgin Community College, McHenry County College, Moraine Valley Community College, Morton College, Oakton Community College, PSC, and Waubonsee Community College. The morning opens with the college performances and jazz workshops. Afterwards, there will be a judges’ performance and awards ceremony. Among the clinicians who will be featured in the afternoon performance are Diane Ellis on saxophone, Coco Elysses on drums, Sam Hankins on trumpet and Marlene Rosenberg on bass. For more information, contact PSC Professor Valerie Nicholson at 708-709-3742 or [email protected].
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
Screening of Documentary ‘This Changes Everything’ – Friday, November 13
UUCC will host a special showing of the exciting new documentary ‘This Changes Everything’ on Friday, November 13 at 7 p.m. A lively discussion will follow the film. What if confronting the climate crisis is the best chance we’ll ever get to build a better world? Inspired by Naomi Klein’s non-fiction bestseller ‘This Changes Everything,’ the film presents seven powerful portraits of communities on the front lines, from Montana’s Powder River Basin to the Alberta Tar Sands, from the coast of South India to Beijing and beyond. Interwoven with these stories of struggle is Klein’s narration, connecting the carbon in the air with the economic system that put it there. Throughout the film, Klein builds to her most controversial and exciting idea: that we can seize the existential crisis of climate change to transform our failed economic system into something radically better. The event is free and open to the public. However, a suggested donation of $5 is appreciated. Tea, coffee and snacks will be provided. Bring a snack to share if you wish. UUCC is located just east of Western Avenue and south of Steger Road. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse Presents ‘Harpeth Rising’ – Saturday, November 14
On Saturday, November 14 at 7:30 p.m. at UUCC, Edgar’s Place Coffeehouse will proudly present ‘Harpeth Rising.’ Tickets are $15 per person. ‘Harpeth Rising’ chose to name themselves after a river because water is both dynamic and powerful. These words also describe the music created by the three women. Unapologetic genre-benders, they fuse folk, newgrass, rock, and classical music into a sound that is organically unique. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpr.org.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Undergraduate Open House – Thursday, November 12
GSU will host an undergraduate Open House Thursday, November 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information on admission requirements, financial aid, campus life and student housing, as well as specific undergraduate programs will be available for prospective students and their parents. Students will also be able to meet with Governors State faculty, academic advisors and financial aid counselors. For more information or to RSVP, contact the Office of Admissions at 708-534-4490 or [email protected]. To register for Open House, go to www.govst.edu/openhouse.
Freshman Fridays – November 13
Admission to a four-year university for highly qualified students has been streamlined at GSU with a program called Freshman Fridays. Attending the session, providing the appropriate documentation and meeting the qualifications enables graduating seniors to apply to GSU and receive an instant admissions decision on-the-spot. The future GSU students can meet with academic and financial aid advisors, take a tour of the university and see what residence hall life is like. To qualify for direct admissions on Freshman Fridays, graduating seniors must meet the following criteria: have an unweighted GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale, have a minimum composite ACT score of 20 with at least a 20 in the English and math components and provide their official high school transcripts and official ACT scores (scores may be posted on the official transcript). Additionally, GSU will waive the application fee for qualified applicants attending Freshman Fridays. The next Freshman Friday will be held on November 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.govst.edu/freshmanfridays or call 708-534-4490.
Information Session on Undergraduate Degree Program in Criminal Justice – Monday, November 16
GSU’s undergraduate degree program in Criminal Justice plans to offer this program at Harper College starting spring 2016. An information session at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL will take place on Monday, November 16, in the H building hallway near room H144 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Governors State University representatives will be present to answer questions about the program. For more information, contact Nancy Kaczmarczyk at 708-235-3983 or [email protected]. If you are interested in obtaining more information about the program, please visit: www.govst.edu/cas.
‘Start Something that Matters’ A Summit to Make a Difference – Friday, November 20
Making a difference can begin locally and result in broader positive results. GSU is celebrating the determination of local people to have a global impact at the ‘Start Something that Matters’ Summit on Friday, November 20, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. Presentations by local experts whose efforts have made a positive impact in the lives of others will be featured. The keynote address, “The Heart of the Matter,” will be given by Thea Polancic, founder and executive director of the Chicago Chapter of Conscious Capitalism, Inc., and advocate for the power of business as a force for good. Also at the event, Harry Rhodes, executive director and co-founder of Growing Home, Chicago’s leading organic agriculture social enterprise focused on empowering people and communities, will present “Sustainability and Social Justice: Social Enterprise, Transitional Jobs and Community Development.” Additional speakers include David Deeds of Governors State University presenting “Combating Human Trafficking” and Shaniqua Jones also of GSU presenting “Implementing Restorative Justice.” The summit is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information, go to http://opus.govst.edu/onebookone/2015/Fall. This event is held in conjunction with International Education Week and Restorative Justice Week and as part of Governors State University’s One Book One University activities centered on the book ‘Start Something that Matters’ by Blake Mycoskie. This event is sponsored by a grant from the GSU Intellectual Life Committee.
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.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
Veterans Day Events – Begin Wednesday, November 11
PSC has several events planned on campus in recognition of Veterans Day next month. Most events are taking place on the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights. The first event is at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 11, with the introduction of the Missing Man Table. The table will remain displayed in the college’s atrium through Wednesday, November 25. The Veterans Day ceremony will be from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, November 11, in the Barnes & Noble College Auditorium. After a posting of colors by the Bloom High School ROTC Color Guard, PSC student Lance Joseph will sing the National Anthem. Rev. Brian Thornton will give the Benediction, followed by a welcome from PSC President Dr. Terri L. Winfree. The keynote address will be given by Rick Reinbold, mayor of Richton Park. After an awards presentation, Joseph will close the ceremony by singing God Bless America. A reception immediately follows. The November Christopher Art Gallery exhibit, “Action/Reaction,” features works from a collective of veteran artists who identify themselves as “Dirty Canteen.” The exhibit opens Monday, November 2, and runs through Thursday, December 3. A reception honoring the artists is scheduled from 4:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday November 12, in the gallery. Veteran musician Eugene Vineyard will perform during the reception. Tuesday, November 24, is Veterans Night at the PSC basketball games being held in the Pioneer Fieldhouse on Vollmer Rd. The women’s game starts at 5:30 p.m., and the men’s game starts at 7:30 p.m. The month’s events end on Wednesday, November 25, with a ceremony retiring the Missing Man Table at 2:30 p.m. in the atrium. For more information on any of the events, contact Georges Sanon, coordinator, Student Veterans Center at [email protected].
Top U.S. Universities
Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educationalcosts 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.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
Americans for Safe Access Program ‘Endocannabinoid System’ – Tuesday, November 10
On Tuesday, November 10 at 7 p.m., Americans for Safe Access will present a program on the ‘Endocannabinoid System’ at UUCC. This is the final of a series of workshops which were designed to reach out to those who already support safe access as well as people who are not already involved. The mission of Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is to ensure safe and legal access to cannabis (marijuana) for therapeutic uses and research. ASA works with a grassroots base of over 50,000 members to effect change using public education and direct advocacy at the local, state, and federal level. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Green Events
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Wednesday Morning Walkers – November 11
Wednesday Morning Walkers can enjoy the early morning and late summer’s floral delights on these leisurely (or brisk – take your choice) trail walks. The group walks on Wednesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Age 13 through adult are invited. Registration is required two days before you walk the first time. For additional information or to register, call 815-727-8700.
Story of the Landscape Hike – Registration Required by Thursday, November 12
The Story of the Landscape Hike will be held on Saturday, November 14 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thorn Creek Woods. In 1957, May Theilgaard Watts, naturalist at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois wrote the enchanting book “Reading the Landscape”. She wrote “there is good reading on the land… The records are written in the forests, in fence rows, in gardens, in tree rings.” Join us on this fall hike to read the landscape of Thorn Creek Woods. The event is free and open to those of all ages. Registration required by Thursday, November 12. For additional information or to register, 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 or visit www.tcwoods.org.
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 or visit www.tcwoods.org.
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.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
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].
Holiday Events
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Annual Fall Shopping Extravaganza – Thursday, November 19
Get an early start on your holiday shopping at the Governors State University Annual Fall Vendor and Craft Fair. Shoppers can beat the Black Friday crowds and shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, arts and crafts, and unique creations on Thursday, November 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., in the Hall of Governors on the university’s main campus. The Fall Vendor Fair event is free and open to the public. Parking is free and refreshments are available for purchase. The fair is sponsored by the GSU Civil Service Senate. Interested vendors and crafters are encouraged to participate. Space is limited. For more information or to register, call 708-235-7559 or email [email protected].
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Annual Food Drive for Rich Township Food Pantry – Donations Accepted Through December 12
Thorn Creek Nature Center is hosting its annual holiday food drive for the Rich Township Food Pantry. Beginning now through Saturday, December 11, donation items can be dropped off at the Nature Center during open hours (Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.). Acceptable items are: non-perishable food items (including boxed, canned and dry foods) especially cereals and peanut butter; personal care items for men and women, especially toothpaste, deodorants and razors; ziplock quart and gallon size bags, baby formula, and disposable diapers (adult and infant). For additional information, call 708-747-6320.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
2015 ‘Twelfth Month’ Handmade & Artisanal Market – Opens Wednesday, November 11
USG will host its 2015 ‘Twelfth Month’ Handmade and Artisanal Market beginning Wednesday, November 11 at the Gallery. The Market will run through December 23. Formally known as ‘Twelfth Month,’ USG’s Handmade and Artisanal Market will showcase beautiful art from USG affiliated artists and friends. As in the past, there will also be boutique items that are perfect for your holiday shopping. Please come in and browse all the wonderful work available in the gallery this holiday season! There will also be special events featured during the Market. The schedule includes:
Friday, November 13 — Cynthia’s Gumbo — Come try Cynthia’s Gumbo (www.cynthiasgumboexpress.com) while viewing art!
Saturday, November 14 Coffee & Conversations — Join us on Saturday for a cup of coffee while viewing the art. Strike up a conversation with someone visiting the gallery, our volunteers, or staff.
Blade & Bloom — Come check out Blade & Bloom’s (www.bladandbloom.com) simple, elegant, high quality beauty products at USG.
Saturday, November 21 — Opening Reception & Fine Tuning — Join us for an opening reception from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Along with our usual refreshments, enjoy the music of Fine Tuning (www.finetuningmusic.com).
Saturday, November 28 — Homewood Kitchen Gardens (www.facebook.com/homewoodkitchengardens) — Freshly harvested, locally grown, chemical free produce and handcrafted personal care items – lip balm, body wash, lotion bars, and more!
Coffee & Conversations — Join us on Saturday for a cup of coffee while viewing the art. Strike up a conversation with someone else visiting the gallery, our volunteers, or staff.
Saturday, December 5 — Coffee & Conversations — Join us on Saturday for a cup of coffee while viewing the art. Strike up a conversation with someone else visiting the gallery, our volunteers, or staff.
Friday, December 11 — Matt Bailey (www.mgbaley.com/onemandband) Bring your friends and enjoy music from Matt Bailey from 7 p.m.to 10 p.m.
Saturday, — December 12 — Blade & Bloom — Come check out Blade & Bloom’s (www.bladandbloom.com) simple, elegant, high quality beauty products at USG.
Coffee & Conversations — Join us on Saturday for a cup of coffee while viewing the art. Strike up a conversation with someone else visiting the gallery, our volunteers, or staff.
Saturday, December 19 – Coffee & Conversations — Join us on Saturday for a cup of coffee while viewing the art. Strike up a conversation with someone else visiting the gallery, our volunteers, or staff.
Wednesday, December 23 — Closes!
Gallery hours are Wednesday & Thursday noon to 5 p.m.; Friday noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
This & That
League of Women Voters – Park Forest Area
‘Campaign Finance – The Good, the Bad & the Ugly’ – Tuesday, November 17
The League of Women Voters – Park Forest Area will host a program on ‘Campaign Finance – The Good, the Bad & the Ugly’ on Tuesday, November 17 at 7 p.m. at the Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard. The speaker will be Doug Price, an experienced campaign coordinator, manager and consultant. He will explain the details and history of campaign finance along with the League position on this topic and take questions from the audience. The program is open to the public and anyone interested in the topic is encouraged to attend to learn more about this important issue. For more information you may contact Diane Hodges at [email protected] or Barbara Moore at 708-481-5251.
Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus, 350 Victory Drive
Community Survey Initiative – Take Online Survey NOW
The Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus and the Health Impact Collaborative of Cook County are currently conducting an important community survey initiative. Cook County residents over the age of 18 are asked to complete this important survey to better understand the health and social issues that are affecting the community. Click below to access the survey. Click to complete the survey online now!
Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road
Nominations Being Accepted for 2016 Park Forest Hall of Fame Class – Through December 30
The Park Forest Historical Society will be accepting nominations for the Park Forest Hall of Fame until December 30, 2015. The official form, which must accompany the nomination, is available at the 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 227 Monee Road on Wednesday and Saturday from 1-3:30 p.m., or at the Archive Office, 227 Monee Road on Friday 10-12, in the lobby of Village Hall or on the society’s website at www.parkforesthistory.org. Nominations may be mailed to the historical society or delivered to the museum or archive in person. To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, persons nominated must have made substantial, beneficial, and consistent contributions to the life and well-being of Park Forest over a considerable span of time. Nominees may now live elsewhere, or be deceased. Individuals or couples may be nominated. The person making the nomination does not have to live in Park Forest, and does not have to be a member of the society. Persons may only make one nomination each year. The official nomination form is required along with separate sheets indicating why the person is being nominated, and in convincing and thorough detail, describing the nominee’s qualifications and contributions which fit the criteria. A list of those already in the Hall of Fame is on their website. Inductees will be chosen from among the eligible nominees by the Park Forest Historical Society, and announced early in 2016. The induction ceremony will be held at Freedom Hall on April 10, 2016. For information, call society president Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252, or email the society via the website, www.parkforesthistory.org. Visit the Park Forest Historical Society’s webs
State Representative Anthony DeLuca – 195 W. Joe Orr Road, Suite 201, Chicago Heights
Annual Wheel Chair Basketball Game – Thursday, November 12
The Annual Wheel Chair Basketball Game will be held on Thursday, November 12 at the Lincolnway Special Recreation Center, 1900 Heather Glen Drive, New Lenox. The game will feature the Rolling Falcons playing against local Illinois State Representatives. This educational yet fun event brings attention to the importance of special recreation programs while being entertaining. Everyone who has attended has enjoyed themselves and keep returning year after year. Come out for this free evening, learn how special recreation programs benefit your community and cheer on the team. For additional information, call Representative DeLuca’s district office at 708-754-7900.
