Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of September 19, 2011


Tom and Joyce Gallagher with artist Ron Kurowski
Tom and Joyce Gallagher of Park Forest chat with artist Ron Kurowski Saturday at Tall Grass Arts Association’s 56th Art Fair. (ENEWSPF)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 19, 2011.  Two big fundraising events are taking place next Saturday, September 24. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., head over to the big white tent in the parking lot near Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, for the 60th Annual Kiwanis Pankcake Day. This special community event provides proceeds to support children, seniors, and young people through a variety of programs and organizations in the south suburbs. After you eat your pancakes, you might want grab Fido and head over to the Park Forest Bark District to work off some of those calories and participate in the 2nd anniversary gala taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Then plan on heading over to the Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. for the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser sponsored by the Park Forest Garden Club and the American Legion to help continue to raise funds for the Blue Star Memorial Project. You can learn more about these events in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section below.

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 Meetings

Village Board Meeting

The Village Board will meet on Monday, September 19 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. 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.

Village of Park Forest Advisory Board & Commission Meetings

The following Park Forest Advisory Board will meet the week of September 19:

  • Tuesday, September 20 at 7 p.m. – Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

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

Arts & Entertainment

Kiwanis Club of Park Forest

60th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day – Saturday, September 24

The 60th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, a Park Forest tradition, will take place on Saturday, September 24 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot outside Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Enjoy pancakes and sausages from the amazing pank-a-tron machine under the big white tent. This year, there will be the added enjoyment of listening to the musical performance of the Joe Goodrich and Friends ensemble as well as other highly talented groups. Pre-event tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for children under 12. Tickets on the day of the event will be $6 for adults and $3 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Park Forest Farmers Market, US Bank, and Village Hall. This special community event provides proceeds to support children, seniors, and young people through a variety of programs and organizations in the south suburbs. For additional information, call Elmer Washington at 708-748-8256.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks

Park Forest Bark District’s Two Year Anniversary Extravaganza – Rescheduled Date – Saturday, September 24

Grab your canine companion and come celebrate the Bark District’s two year anniversary on Saturday, September 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Bark District is located at 218 Street and Wildwood in Park Forest. We guarantee you will have a ‘fur’bulous time! There will be giveaways, specialty dog vendors and mover. The Park Forest Environment Commission will be planting a tree and unveiling a memorial bench at the start of the event. For additional information, call 708-748-2005 or e-mail [email protected].

Garden Club of Park Forest & Park Forest American Legion Post 1198

Blue Star Memorial Marker Landscaping Project – Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., a Spaghetti Dinner will be held at the Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, 1631 Western Ave., Chicago Heights. Proceeds from the event will be used for the Blue Star Memorial Marker Landscaping Project. Tickets are $8 per person. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, call 708-481-6628 or 708-748-3674. If you cannot attend the fundraiser and would like to help with this very worth-while cause, you can make a tax-deductible contribution. Checks should be made out to the Garden Club of Park Forest with ‘Blue Star Marker Project’ written in the memo section and sent to: Loretta Madix, Treasurer, 125 Sycamore, Frankfort, IL 60423.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore Dr., Park Forest

‘9500 Liberty’ Free Movie & Discussion – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 at 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Community Church will screen the movie ‘9500 Liberty.’ A discussion will follow the movie. The documentary movie looks at the battle over immigration in the U.S. through the lens of one place, Prince William County, Virginia, where, in an eight week period, an ‘Arizona-style’ immigration crackdown was implemented and quickly repealed. Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. The event is free and open to the public. Optional donations are welcome.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

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

  • Monday, September 19 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Monday, September 19 at 6:30 p.m. – Jazz on Monday Nights: Jazz Up in Harlem – The fall series begins with a special documentary film that traces Jazz music in all the Harlem hotspots in their heydays. The film features Dizzy Gillespie, Milt Hinton and Jerry Mulligan.
  • Tuesday, September 20 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime
  • Tuesday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m. – Tuesdays Full of the Blues: Howlin’ Wolf – The second season of Blues begins with an encore presentation of the Howlin’ Wolf Story. Joining us that evening will be members of Wolf’s family to share their personal memories.
  • Tuesday, September 20 at 7 p.m. – PJ Storytime for all ages
  • Wednesday, September 21 at 3:30 p.m. – Afterschool Games/Crafts
  • Thursday, September 22 at 10:30 a.m. – LapSit Storytime for those ages 0 – 35 months with caregiver
  • Thursday, September 22 at 11:15 a.m. – Toddler Art for those ages 2 – 4 with caregiver
  • Thursday, September 22 at 1 p.m. – The Soloists: Isaac Stern – Two classic Mozart concerto performances from Isaac Stern.
  • Friday, September 23, at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Time – Each Friday we’ll feature a teen craft, Wii games, board game competitions, or maybe even a classic TV rerun. Bring a friend!
  • Saturday, September 24 at 2 p.m. – Apple Pie Book Battle – Taste a Book, Taste a Pie! Apple-themed book discussions accompanied by Apple Pie Tastings. Special Readers’ Presentation of Joanna Fluke’s Apple Turnover Murder and Amelia Bedelia’s First Apple Pie. For all ages.

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

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

‘A Celebration of Our Volunteers, Past and Present’ – Sunday, September 25

The Park Forest Historical Society will hold ‘A Celebration of Our Volunteers, Past and Present’ on Sunday, September 25 at 2:30 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The celebration will be preceded by a brief Annual meeting and election of board members with reports from the officers. Those interested in becoming volunteers with the Park Forest Historical Society can contact Jane Nicoll, Museum Director by e-mail at [email protected] or Michael Gans, President at 708-305-3308. The event is free and open to the public.

Park Forest House Museum

New Fall Hours – Open on Wednesdays & Saturdays Through November

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Blvd. Park Forest, is increasing its hours through November. The Museum will be open on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from Noon to 3 p.m. Group tours can be arranged for other times 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].

Volunteers Needed At Park Forest House Museum

With its hours expanding for Fall 2011, the Park Forest House Museum is in need of volunteers to help cover the increased hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please e-mail Jane Nicoll, Museum Director 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.

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

Abraxas – Santana Tribute Band – Tickets Now on Sale

Freedom Halls’ 2011 – 2012 Season kicks off on Friday, October 14 at 8 p.m. Abraxas – Santana Tribute Band performing a musical tribute to Carlos Santana covering five decades of Santana hits. Inspired by the incredible intensity of his music, Abraxas shares a passion for recreating the electrifying sounds of Carlos Santana. Audiences, without exception, have been awed by the authentic Santana sound that Abraxas delivers during their stunning shows. With Abraxas, it’s all there: the propulsive Latin percussion, the fiery lead guitar work, the ‘groove’ that connects to the soul of the audience. Tickets are $24. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Free Preview of Documentary ‘Hogtown’ – Sunday, September 25

A film is being made in our midst and we have an opportunity to be part of the process. If you would like to learn more, please join local writer/director, Daniel Nearing, cinematographer, Sanhoon Lee, and Tall Grass Arts Association’s Board Member, Suzanne Patterson on Sunday, September 25 for a free preview of Nearing and Lee’s new film ‘Hogtown.’ A brief presentation will be made on how you can help make the film. Nearing and Lee are the makers of the film ‘Chicago Heights.’ The event will be held at Governors State University’s Engbretson Hall, 1 University parkway, University Park, IL, beginning at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. To learn more about becoming part of this exciting project, or to RSVP if you plan on attending the event, please contact Suzanne Patterson at 708-420-0563 or e-mail [email protected].

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

Photographer of the Year and Annual Student Work Exhibition – Through September 22

A selection of PSC Photographer of the Year honoree Sherryl Smith’s work, along with selected works by students in fine arts, photography, and graphic communications will be on exhibit through Thursday, September 22 in the college’s Christopher Art Gallery. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. The Gallery will be closed on Labor Day, September 5. Visits can also be made by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment for a visit, contact the PSC Foundation at 708-709-3636.

Center for Performing Arts, 1 University Parkway, University Park

‘Thriller: The Legend Continues’ The Michael Jackson Tribute – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, October 1 at 8 p.m., Michael Jackson’s best songs will be performed live on stage once again. Songs to be performed include: ‘Man in the Mirror,’ ‘Bad,’ ‘Black or White,’ ‘Beat it,’ ‘Billy Jean,’ ‘Thriller,’ and many more unforgettable songs including songs from the days when Michael was a member of the Jackson 5. Tickets range in price from $15 to $62. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-235-2222 or visit: www.centertickets.net.

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

‘Collective’ – Through September 24

This year’s Studio and Guild Artists Exhibit ‘Collective’ will and run through Saturday, September 24. The theme addresses the idea of a number of individuals joined together, sharing common interests or goals, but also suggests that the works themselves will all have a number of elements or motifs that are repeated and joined within each single piece. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information, call the Gallery at 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.

‘Debut’ – Through September 24

‘Debut’ is an exhibit featuring pieces of art created by Union Street Gallery Members who are artists runs through Saturday, September 24. This exhibit is very diverse, featuring quality work from both emerging artists and professional artists. Members exhibiting hail from as local as Chicago Heights and from as far as Pennsylvania. Exhibiting artists are Max Victor Alper, CouSandra Armstron, Dale Augustson, Claudia Craemer, Karen DalSanto-Edelbrock, Pam Eberlin, Nancy Frazier, Margie Glass-Sula, Helen Hnatusko, Peggy Lehocky, Selma Lisit, Harriet Miller, Jim O’Leary, Cheryl Osby, Gisele Perreault, and Emmanuel Turner.

Silent Art Auction Fundraiser – Bidding Ends Saturday, September 24

Local artists generously donated artwork for a silent auction to help raise funds for Union Street Gallery. The art being auctioned off is worth hundreds of dollars, and many starting bids are at $20.  Whether you are just starting your art collection or adding to it, this is a great opportunity to name your own price on an original piece of art.  What better way to support the local arts than buying a piece of art?Auction is going on now on the first floor in the studio in the back right corner of the gallery.  Many pieces have several bids on them so be sure to keep up on your bids!  Auction ends at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 24th. Winning bids will be notified by Wednesday September 28th.

Monkey Mind Art Gallery, 3 West Nebraska St., Frankfort

‘Off the Wall for Fall’ Exhibit – Through September 24

‘Off the Wall for Fall’ is an exhibit featuring fifteen juried artists with aviates on paintings, printmaking, photography, wood burning and mixed media collage and more. The exhibit will run through September 17. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 815-464-8818.

Rich Township Food Pantry

22nd Annual Fall Fashion Show Fundraiser – Tickets Now on Sale

The Rich Township Food Pantry’s 22nd Annual Fall Fashion Show Fundraiser will take place on Sunday, October 16 at 12:30 p.m. at the Tinley Park Holiday Inn Convention Center, 18501 S. Harlem, Tinley Park, IL. All proceeds raised from the fashion who go directly to purchase food that is distributed to more than 800 families in need every month. Tickets are $35 which includes a delicious sit-down luncheon, a fabulous fashion show, and a silent auction with hundreds of incredible items, such as valuable artwork, jewelry, gift baskets, and much more. There will also be door prizes and raffles. To purchase tickets or for additional information, call 708-748-6722.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Job Search Assistance Every Tuesday At GSU

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

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.

Green Events

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)

Field Trip to Hammond Bird Sanctuary – Wednesday, September 21 (Rain Date, Saturday, September 24)

We will meet on Wednesday, September 21 at 8 a.m. at Hammond Bird Sanctuary which is a stopover for migrating birds. Take Calumet Avenue north to a sign for the casino and the Hammond Marina. Turn left and follow the curving road until you see the Marina sign. Turn into the parking lot. The sanctuary is by the Marina. For additional information, call Pat Strange at 219-923-5164.

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

Thorn Creek Woods Clean-Up Day – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., those of all ages are invited to come out and have fun sprucing up the nature center, and doing cleanup and trail repairs. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

Safer Pest Control Project, Chicago

Natural Lawn Care & Sustainable Landscapes Workshop – Registration in Progress

On Thursday, October 13, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, IL, a ‘Natural lawn Care & Sustainable Landscapes Workshop’ will be held. The workshop is recommended for landscape companies, turf managers, homeowner associations, and municipalities. The workshop will include sessions on:

  • Introduction to natural lawn care;
  • Implementing a natural lawn care program;
  • What to look for in contracts;
  • Greening your ordinances; and
  • Creating a rain-friendly landscape.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how to create and implement cost-effective sustainable landscaping programs in your community. Registration is $25. For additional information or to register, call 847-548-5989 extension 33, or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.spcpweb.org.

Park Forest Farmers’ Market

The Farmers’ Market will be held each Saturday 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.

Healthy Living

Park Forest Fire & Police Departments

Car Seat Safety Check – Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, September 24 from 10 a.m. to noon, the Park Forest Fire & Police Departments will be holding a car seat safety check. The event will be held in the parking lot west of the Fire Station located at 156 Indianwood Boulevard. For additional information, please call 708-748-5605.

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

Wednesday Morning Walkers – Wednesday, September 21

On Wednesdays, through November 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., those ages 11 to adult are invited to follow the forest’s fall changes, enjoy light exercise and experience nature first-hand on Thorn Creek’s autumn trails. Trails can be wet or muddy so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. For additional information, call 708-747-6320.

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 Commission on Human Relations

2011 Good Egg Award Presentation – Monday, September 19 – RESCHEDULED DATE

The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations will present its 2011 Good Egg Award presentation on Monday, September 19 at 6 p.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The event will take place prior to the regularly scheduled Board Meeting. The 2011 awardees are Gene Finley, Olubukola Fatoki and Bets Hofsommer. Residents are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Evelyn Sterling, Community Relations Coordinator at 708-283-5621.

Pax Christi Seed Planters, Generations for Peace Park Forest, St. Irenaeus Church Community Garden & South Suburban Food Cooperative

International Day of Peace – Wednesday, September 21

On Wednesday, September 21, Pax Christi Seed Planters, Generations for Peace Park Forest, St. Irenaeus Church Community Garden and the South Suburban Food Cooperative invite you to participate in the International Day of Peace Event at St. Irenaeus Church, 78 Cherry, Park Forest. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and will include the planting of a Peace Pole and a commitment to peace dedication in the community garden located in the back of the church off the parking lot.  Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. Come and take a stand for the things that make for peace.  Commit to nonviolence and seed the change we hope to see.  For additional information, call Concetta Smart at 708-672-3971.

Park Forest Economic Development and Planning Department

Business Breakfast – Wednesday, September 28

Business sustainability will be the topic discussed at the Business Breakfast to be held Wednesday, September 28 at Dining on the Green Banquet Hall, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. It’s no secret that ‘green campaigning’ is here to stay and is affecting our lives right here and now. Learn exactly what business sustainability is and what it means to you and your business and how your business, large or small, can make a difference. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and a complimentary full breakfast will be provided. Presentations will be given by Kevin Dick, Director of Certifications Programs, Delta Institute, and Jessica Simoncelli and Kristin Ihnchak, Community Outreach Planners, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. To register for the event, call 708-283-5617 or visit www.villageofparkforest.com/index.php?src=news&refno=928&category=News

Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG)

Seeking Nominees for Park Forest Business Person of the Year Award

Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a difference for you or someone you know?  You can nominate individuals, civic groups, and/or businesses who are committed to community service to receive this year’s award. Completed nomination forms should be submitted to EDAG in care of the Village of Park Forest no later than October 31, 2011.  Contact Sandra Zoellner at [email protected] or 708-283-5623 for additional information.

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.

Cook County Commission Holding Low-Cost Rabies Vaccine & Microchip Clinics Through November 9

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.

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 Summer Recreation Programs & More Brochure; Rich Township Report; Park Forest Historical Society, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Center for Performing Arts, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Illinois Theatre Center, Sertoma Centre, Inc., CAUTION, Union Street Gallery, Monkey Mind Art Studio, and Tall Grass Arts Association websites.


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