Local

In and Around Park Forest Week of September 20, 2010


Children at the 2010 Art Fair

Chilren create works of art at the 2010 Park Forest Art Fair. (Photo: Peter Schaper)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 20, 2010. The 59th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, a Park Forest tradition, will take place on Saturday, September 25 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. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Village Hall or on the day of the event. Pre-event tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for children under 12. Tickets on the day of the event are $6 for adults and $3 for children under 12. For more information, call Michele Johnson at 708-278-0008.

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 Meetings

Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Village Advisory Board will meet this week:

  • Recreation and Parks Advisory Board – Tuesday, September 21 at 7 p.m.

The meeting will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Calvary United Protestant Church, Lincoln Highway & Orchard Drive, Park Forest

Good Neighbor Day – Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., join your neighbors and make new friends at the Good Neighbor Day for a day of games, prizes and free food. The Chicago Sky mascot will be in attendance along with radio station Power 92. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call Dudley Elvery at 708-748-6241.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 267 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“Fabulously Focused” Exhibit Now Open

“Fabulously Focused,” an exhibit of current works of Tall Grass Gallery Artists is currently open. Eleven new artists have successfully completed the jurying process and were invited to participate in the exhibit. “Whirling Ocean Life,” an abstract watercolor by Charlotte Sasser will be raffled off during the run of the exhibit. The event if free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.

Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

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

Monday, September 20 10:30 a.m. Story Time for children ages 3 to 6
Wednesday, September 22 10:30 a.m. Lap Sit Story Times
Wednesday, September 22 10:30 a.m. Toddler Art
Friday, September 24 3:30 p.m. Happy Birthday to You

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

Travelogue – Friday, September 24

On Friday, September 24 at 10:30 p.m., at the Rich Township – Shirley Green Center in DownTown Park Forest, a free travelogue film for seniors will be shown. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 708-748-3731.

Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest

“Icons” – Through October

“Icons” exhibit at Salon Artists Gallery runs through October. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and 12 Noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, call Pat Moore or Bev Szaton at 708-833-5108.

Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Park Forest

“Anna Christie” – Opens Friday, September 24

The Illinois Theatre Center will open its 35th season on Friday, September 24 with “Anna Christie,” Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize winning classic tale of an old sailor’s reunion with the daughter he abandoned as a child. This play has been thrilling audiences around the world for 90 years. The play will run through October 10. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $22 on Friday and Saturday, $20 at all other times, with a $1 discount for students and seniors. For tickets, call (708) 481-3510.

Park Forest Historical Society

History of the Holiday Theater – Sunday, September 26

On Sunday, September 26 at 2:30 p.m., the History of the Holiday Theater will be the program at the Park Forest Historical Society’s annual meeting held at the Village Hall board room, 350 Victory Drive. Jack and Becky Mallers Black will lead a panel discussion on the history of the Theater. For additional information, call Jerry Schnay at 708-747-3571.

Park Forest House Museum, 141 Forest Boulevard (Corner of Forest & Fir)

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum is in an original rental townhome, built in 1947-1949 by American Community Builders. The museum provides a nostalgic trip down Memory Lane for anyone who lived in the 1950s or 1960s, or for those interested in that period. Visitors are encouraged to open drawers, cupboard and closets to discover period treasures inside. Contents of the house, furnished as though a young veteran and his family of small children occupy it, include dolls, toys, dollhouses, books, dishes, serving pieces, furniture and clothing from the period. When is the last time you said, "Hello," to Howdy Doody?

The Museum is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Group tours are by appointment. Call 708-748-3731.

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

Kenya Safari Acrobats – Tickets Now on Sale

On Friday, October 15 at 8 p.m., the Kenya Safari Acrobats will offer a truly unique cultural experience. Hailing from the heart of Africa, this awe-inspiring and dynamic dance troupe takes acrobatics to exhilarating extremes performing a non-stop ride of gravity-defying human pyramids, tumbling, limbo dancing, hurling through hoops and breathtaking contortions, all while clapping to a joyful Benga beat. Tickets are $23. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call 708-503-7737 or visit www.freedomhall.org to order tickets online.

Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St., Park Forest

Dramatic Production – Friday, September 24

On Friday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m., join the Drama Ministry’s quarterly event. The event is combined with dramatic production or spoken word. For additional information, call Myrna Herndon at 708-503-6536.

Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway

Lyric Opera Preview – Sunday, September 26

Add some grandeur to your afternoon on Sunday, September 26 at 4 p.m. with this preview event of the Lyric Opera’s unprecedented 56th Season. Four of the Opera Chorus’ featured artists will be on hand to present arias, duets, and ensembles from the upcoming season.

  • Verdi’sMacbeth andA Masked Ball
  • Bizet’sCarmen
  • Gilbert & Sullivan’sThe Mikado
  • Puccini’sThe Girl of the Golden West
  • Wagner’sLohengrin
  • Handel’sHercules

Viennese pastries and coffee will be offered during this intimate performance on The Center’s stage. Tickets are $37. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visitwww.centertickets.net.

Tickets Now on Sale for 2010-2011 Season

The Center for Performing Arts is now selling series tickets for the 2010-2011 Season. Artists range from musical performers, ballet, plays, cabaret acts and events especially for children. Special offers are provided for those purchasing 3, 4, or 5 shows in the series including 15% off regular ticket prices, priority seating, ticket exchange privileges and dining discounts. Treat yourself to this amazing 16th Season at the Center and give back to your community at the same time. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call the Center box office at 708-235-2222 or visit www.centertickets.net.

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

“Hidden Splendor of Color” – Through September 22

The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU will present “Hidden Splendor of Color,” an exhibit of photographs by Kankakee resident Jeremy Spence, a recent graduate of GSU’s Master of Fine Arts program. Spence’s panoramic works turn everyday landscapes into vivid habitats that become eye candy for the viewer. Through the use of richly saturated colors, Spence reveals the beauty of hidden colors that exist only at night. The solo exhibit runs through September 22. A closing reception will be held on Wednesday, September 22 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Hours at the Visual Arts Gallery are Monday and Tuesday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Gallery is located adjacent to GSU’s E Lounge. For more information, call 708-534-4017 or visit: www.gsuvisualartsgallery.blogspot.com.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU

Neil Goodman Sculptures On Display Through October

Five dramatic sculptures by Chicago artist Neil Goodman are currently on display at GSU’s Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. Goodman’s sculptures have been commissioned and collected by museums, corporations, convention centers, parks, synagogues, universities and private residences. For more information aboutNeil Goodman in the Park call 708-534-4486 or visit[email protected].

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

Photographer of the Year Student Show – Through September 23

The photography of Michelle Cox, winner of the Photographer of the Year award, and selected works by students in fine arts, photography, and graphic communications is being shown through Thursday, September 23 at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. For additional information, call 708-709-3636.

CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead

Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, September 23

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

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., Chicago Heights, IL

The Artists’ Marks – Through September 24

The Artists’ Marks is a survey of the drawings, paintings and prints of Richard Benoit, Akiko Matsuoka-Thorson, and Gary Thomas, three artists who are often identified by their own personal technical processes of transforming a blank work surface into a meaningful image. The Artists’ Marks gives viewers an opportunity to gain insight into the unique mark-making processes of these three artists. The exhibit will run through September 24. A reception for the Artists’ Marks will be held on Friday, September 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. when the artists will be present to discuss their work and their processes. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit: www.unionstreetgallery.org.

“Objects of Affection” – Through September 24

Objects of Affection,” a juried exhibition dedicated to the study, portrayal, and artistic interpretation of arranged objects will run through September 24. The opening reception will be held on Friday, September 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For additional information and gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit:www.unionstreetgallery.org

‘Green’ Events

Multidisciplinary Education for the Environment (ME4E)

National Public Lands Day Event – Thursday, September 23

ME4E will host a National Public Lands Day event on Thursday, September 23 as part of a national initiative. Volunteers are needed to help weed the Park Forest rain garden, clean the park and test the wetland water. Volunteers will meet on September 23 at the Park Forest Aqua Center’s Wetlands Discovery Center, 30 N. Orchard at 2 p.m. For additional information or to notify ME4E that you can volunteer, send an e-mail to [email protected] or visit the event page at www.Facebbok.com/ME4E.org

Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)

Field Trip to Miller Beach – Wednesday, September 22

On Wednesday, September 22 meet at the Park Forest Library at 7 a.m. to car pool to Miller Beach. Weather permitting, we hope to use scopes to see rafts of diving ducks, probably Goldeneyes, Buffleheads, and Mergansers, along with a number of gulls other than Ring-bills, such as the Great Black-backed. We will lunch at the Miller Beach Bakery. Because of possible unfavorable weather conditions, two alternate dates, Saturday, September 25 and Wednesday, September 29 have been set for this trip. Please notify Al Thomas at 708-957-9847, if you plan to attend so you can be notified in case of a change of plans. For additional information, if you need a ride or want to car pool, or learn how to become a member of TCAS, call Al Thomas or visit TCAS website at:www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org.

Annual Birdseed Sale – Orders Accepted Until October 1

Thorn Creek Audubon Society’s annual birdseed sale is now underway. Orders will be accepted until October 1. Pickup date is Saturday, October 23 at the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard Dr., Park Forest. Prices are especially good this year. Seed will include black oil sunflower seed, safflower seed, nyjer (thistle) seed and a variety of seed blends. Also for sale are pine bluebird boxes and suet cakes. To obtain an order form, call Al Thomas at 708-957-9847 or visit: www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org. Sale proceeds help fund conservation and environmental education for children and adults.

Park Forest Environment Commission

 ‘A Chemical Reaction’ Film Screening – Save the Date

On Saturday, October 2 beginning at 1 p.m., the Park Forest Environment Commission, Thorn Creek Audubon Society and Governors State University (GSU) will host a screening of the documentary movie, ‘A Chemical Reaction’ in GSU’s Sherman Hall, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL. ‘A Chemical Reaction’ explores how the elimination of lawn pesticides transformed one community in Canada, and how their actions impacted the chemical lawn care industry in North America. Following the screening, there will be a discussion by industry experts about activity occurring in the State of Illinois to reduce the amount of chemical pesticides being used by local governments and communities. There is a suggested donation of $10 with no charge for GSU students with ID. For more information, call Rosemary Piser at 708-747-1991.

Safer Pest Control Project’s Ladybug Bash – Tickets Now on Sale

On Saturday, October 8 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Safer Pest Control Project will hold its Ladybug Bash at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL. Enjoy delicious food including pizza from Union Restaurant, bid on cool items in the silent auction, groove to the sounds of the Steve Schneck Trio, and honor the Evanston Environmental Board for the successful passage of a sustainable pest control and pesticide reduction policy. Tickets are $65 per person in advance and $75 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.spcpweb.org/donate.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

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

Little Twigs Nature Playtimes – Through November 18

Each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. through November 18, young children ages 2 – 4 can participate in this hands-on exploratory program that teaches young children about the environment through hikes, stories and crafts. There is a fee of $5 per child (no fee for parents). Bring your child or grandchild out for this wonderful program. Snacks are provided. Registration is not required. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

Fall Clean-Up Day – Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., those of all ages are invited to lend a helping hand to help prepare the nature center for the fall. Help prepare the building and grounds for Harvest Fest in October. Fall Clean-up Day is a great way to fulfill community service obligations. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Please call 708-747-6320 if you are in need of community service hours or for additional information.

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

Constitution Day Panel Discussion – Monday, September 20

GSU will observe Constitution Day on Monday, September 20 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a panel discussion on “Controversies in the Constitution” in Engbretson Hall. Panelists include GSU faculty members Dr. Chelsea Haring, assistant professor of Social Sciences; Dr. Will Kelley, Assistant Professor of Political and Justice Studies; and Dr. James Coldren, academic coordinator of Criminal Justice programs. Dr. Larry Levinson, director of the University Honors program and academic coordinator of Political and Justice Studies, will contribute and moderate the discussion. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 708-534-4552.

Free Basic Computer Classes for Rich Township Residents

Rich Township is offering free basic computer skills 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, resume building skills, and more. For additional information, call Mark Mason or Joe Moran at 708-748-6722.

Shop Locally

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.

Park Forest Farmers Market

The Park Forest’s Farmers Market will be held each Saturday through October from 7 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Fresh garden plants and produce, bakery goods, gourmet cheeses, herbs and eggs will be available for sale. Local businesses will also be on hand with a variety of artwork, garden ornaments, candles and more. Meet your friends at the Farmers Market for breakfast or lunch and shop locally.

During the Farmers Market, local civic groups can give demonstrations, hold fundraisers or other events at no charge but must register in advance. For more information, call 708-748-1118 or visit www.pfhealth.net.

Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL

Farm Fresh Market –Thursday, September 23

Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are coming to GSU at its first-ever outdoor farmers market on Thursday, September 23 at the south end of Parking Lot D. Hours are 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. The Farmers Market will be held on Thursdays through September.

Healthy Living

Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest

Wednesday Morning Walkers – Through November 17

Those ages 11 through adult can enjoy light exercise as you meander through Thorn Creek Woods every Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. through 8:30 a.m. through November 17. Experience the arrival of fall first hand as you walk the 1 mile loop through woodlands and ravines. Trails can be wet or muddy, so please wear sturdy shoes. Terrain is moderate. Registration is not required. For more information, call 708-747-6320.

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

Flu & Pneumonia Clinic

On Mondays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., flu and pneumonia immunizations will be available while supplies last. Appointments MUST be made in advance. For fee information or to schedule an appointment, call the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118. Hours of the Health Department are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Babies, Teens and Adults Immunization Clinics

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

Blood Pressure Screening

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

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

Free Counseling Services Available

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

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)

Assistance With Medications & Health Services

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

This & That

Park Forest Recreation Center, 520 Lakewood Blvd., Park Forest

3rd Annual Shoot For Success – Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the 3rd Annual Shoot For Success event will take place. This is a free one-day basketball clinic for girls ages 9 through 14. The clinic not only teaches basketball fundamentals and physical fitness, but also includes a seminar focusing on off-the-court issues that young girls face today such as physical fitness, mental health and empowerment. All participants must register with Recreation and Parks in advance. A light snack will be provided. For additional information or to register, call Kevin Adams at 708-748-2005.

Park Forest Economic Development & Planning Department

October Business Breakfast – RSVP by Friday, October 1

The October Business Breakfast will be held on Wednesday, October 6 beginning at 8 a.m. at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. A complimentary full breakfast will be provided. An in-depth presentation will be given by Steve Robinson, Regional Development Director of Illinois, Constant Contact, on e-mail marketing that will benefit your business – and pocketbook – whether you are a small, mid-size or large company owner. The event is free and open to the public. RSVP by Friday, October 1 to Monica DeLord at http://pfoctoberbreakfast.eventbrite.com or by calling 708-283-5617.

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

Barbeque & Tupperware Party – Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 25 at 5:30 p.m., enjoy hot dogs and hamburgers cooked on the grill. Entertainment and sale of Tupperware will also take place. The event is open to the public. Supper is free, however, if you wish, you can bring a side dish to share. This event is a fundraiser supporting community music outreach. For additional information, call Cathy Grismeyer at 708-748-1100 or visit www.holyfamilyparkforest.org.

Grace United Protestant Church, 255 Somonak St., Park Forest

Women’s Christian Association Annual Pie and Bake Sale, Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 25 from 7 a.m to noon, the Women’s Christian Association of Grace United Protestant Church will have a booth at the Park Forest Farmers Market where they will sell homemade pies and bakery goods. The proceeds from the bake sale go towards the church’s various ministries. For additional information, call Roberta Waitworth at 708-748-4567 or visit www.gbgm-umc.org/graceup.

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

Free Java Tuesdays

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

Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest

Connect Café – Thursday, September 23

On Thursday, September 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., the Connect Café is a place for the community to hang out, have a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate, listen to music, talk, play a game of chess, or just relax. Kid friendly, also for Mom’s and Dad’s. This event will be held every Thursday. For more information, call 708-748-1995 or visitwww.celebration4.org.

C4 Underground Youth Gathering – Every Tuesday & Thursday

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

Men’s Breakfast Fellowship – Saturday, September 25

On Saturday, September 25 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., join the Men’s Ministry for food and discussion on a variety of topics. All ages are welcome. For additional information, call Celebration Ministries at 708-748-1995.

Roots and Wings, 215 Nashua St., Park Forest

Current Events Topic Group – Every Monday

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

St. Irenaeus Church, 207 S. Orchard Dr., Park Forest

Taste of St. Irenaeus – Sunday, September 25

On Sunday, September 25 from Noon to 2 p.m., come to the St. Irenaeus School Gym and sample a variety of food from Parish families, including Polish, Italian, African American, German, Irish, just to name a few. For additional information, call 708-748-6891 or visitwww.stirenaeuschurch.com.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Ave., Park Forest

Last Saturday Potluck – Saturday, September 25

On the last Saturday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., bring a dish to share and come for an evening of fun. Activities include games, movies, and speakers. For additional information, call Reverend Linda Johnson Seyenkulo at 708-747-8388 or visit www.trinityparkforest.org.

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.

Club & Organization Meetings

Park Forest Stamp Club – Tuesday, September 21

The Park Forest Stamp Club will meet on Tuesday, September 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest. The club has members dedicated to all levels of Philately, ranging from beginners to highly advanced collectors. Formal programs are presented from September to June. The Park Forest Stamp Club is open to anyone interested in stamp collecting. For more information, call Duane Larson at 708-503-9552 or Paul Larsen at 708-747-1444.

Kiwanis Club – Tuesday, September 21

The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest will meet on Tuesday, September 21. The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest is dedicated to ‘serving the children of the world’ and performing community service for young people, the aging, and the needy in local and international settings. Please call Michele Johnson at 708-278-0008 for meeting location and membership information.

Greening of Park Forest

B3 Bottles, Park Forest

The United Sates leads in consuming bottled water, drinking 26 billion liters a year (that’s only one, 8 ounce glass per day). It is estimated that Americans go through 2.5 million plastic bottlesevery hour with 86% of the plastic bottles used never getting recycled. B3 Bottles, a local Park Forest business, has a solution to this problem. B3’s stainless steel bottles can be filled with Park Forest’s award winning water or other hot/cold beverages of your choice, and then cleaned and re-used for a lifetime. To learn more about B3 Bottles and pricing information, call Laura Fitzgerald at 708-748-0934.

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

Recycle Unused Wheelchairs

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

South Suburban Family Shelter Used Cell Phone Collection Drive

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

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

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

Local Recycling Resources and Proper Disposal of Unused Medicine

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

Safe Disposal Program – Bio-waste

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

Recycle Used Cell Phones and Cell Phone Accessories

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

Go Green with a Free Tote Bag

The Village of Park Forest encourages residents to visit Village Hall to pick up an environmentally friendly canvas bag that can be used for your day-to-day shopping needs. These bags are free while supplies last with only two expectations: 1) that residents have a valid email address so that future environmentally conscious concepts can be shared by the Village’s Environment Commission; and 2) that bags are limited to one per household. For more information on this program, visit the Village Manager’s Office on the second floor of Village Hall of call 708-748-1129.

Sources: Park Forest 2010 Autumn Recreation Programs & More; Park Forest Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Recreation Programs & More, Village of Park Forest, Governors State University, Prairie State College, Center for Performing Arts, Union Street Gallery, Park Forest Rotary Club, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Theatre Center, Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, CAUTION, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Tall Grass Arts Association, Thorn Creek Audubon Society websites.


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