Jasmine Perkins of Richton Park smiles as she serves patrons Saturday at the 2010 Kiwanis Pancake Day featuring the Pankatron. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 27, 2010. The Park Forest Environment Commission, Thorn Creek Audubon Society and Governors State University (GSU) are hosting a screening of the environmental movie, A Chemical Reaction, on Saturday, October 2 at 1 p.m. at GSU’s Sherman Hall. Learn more about this important environmental event in the ‘Green Events’ 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 of Park Forest Meetings
Village Board Meeting
The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, September 27 at 8 p.m. at Village Hall. In addition, the Board will hold a Saturday morning Rules Meeting beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 2. Residents are encouraged to attend. Village Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers) as well as on the Village web site at www.villageofparkforest.com.
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch
‘Green’ Events
Park Forest Environment Commission
‘A Chemical Reaction’ Film Screening – Saturday, October 2
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.
Thorn Creek Audubon Society (TCAS)
Annual Birdseed Sale – LAST CALL – Orders Thru 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.
Prairie State College (PSC), 201 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights
Wind Energy Summit
PSC and the Chicago Southland Wind Council are hosting a wind energy summit for organizations interested in wind energy. The summit will be held on October 11 and 12 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Business and Community Education Center located on PSC’s main campus. The purpose of the summit is to provide a forum to educate organizations about wind energy, encourage involvement, and develop business relationships. Eize de Vries, journalist and university lecturer from the Netherlands; Laura Mueller, Vice President of Human Resources for Germany-based Nordex Energy; Joe Coleman, Sourcing Leader, Acciona Windpower North America, LLC; Jeff Anthony, Director of Business Development for the American Wind Energy Association; and Dr. John Galiotos, Director of the Energy Institute at Houston Community College Northeast are among the keynote presenters. Registration is $175 which includes the summit, breakfast and lunch on both days, and a vendor expo. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, contact Julie DeLong at 708-709-7919 or [email protected] or Harry Holtz, Chicago Southland Wind Council at [email protected].
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.
Arts & Entertainment
Park Forest Economic Development & Planning
Park Forest Idols Outreach – Begins Friday, October 1
Beginning on Friday, October 1, singers and dancers of all ages can pick up an entry form to apply for an audition for the Park Forest Idols competition to be held on Saturday, January 22, 2011. Forms can be picked up at the Economic Development & Planning Office of Village Hall, or by e-mail at [email protected]. For additional information, call 708-283-5621.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
Auditions for Scrooge! The Musical – Sunday, October 3
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra is auditioning local singers/actors for parts in Leslie Bricuse’s Scrooge! The Musical to be performed during the orchestra’s popular Harris Holiday Concerts in December 2010. Five minute auditions will be held on Sunday, October 3 from Noon to 4 p.m. at Prairie State College, 202 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights (specific room assignment will be provided at the time of audition registration). Those wishing to audition must prepare a musical theater piece emphasizing your range and vocal strengths (accompanist will be provided), a resume or curriculum vitae listing past musical theater and vocal concert productions in which you have performed, and a possible script reading. Pre-registration for an audition is required and can be made at: http://www.ipomusic.org/schedule_detail.cfm?concert_id=79.
Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:
| Monday, September 27 | 10:30 a.m. | Story Time for children ages 3 to 6 |
| Wednesday, September 29 | 10:30 a.m. | Lap Sit Story Times |
| Wednesday, September 29 | 10:30 a.m. | Toddler Art |
| Thursday, September 30 | 3:30 p.m. | Youth Services Homework Helper |
For more information or to register for these events, call the Park Forest Library’s Youth Services Department at 708-748-3731.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
Art Trek – Friday, October 1
Join us for this fine art exhibition and demonstrations within the Chicago Southland Community. This event will continue through October 31 in over 38 locations. Demonstrations include painting, jewelry making, and much more. Call 708-833-5108 or 708-748-3946 for more information, the different locations. Along with daily business hours.
“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” – Through October 10
The Illinois Theatre Center opens its 35th season 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.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 267 Artists Walk, Park Forest
“Americana: Folk Art” – Opens Friday, October 1
“Americana: Folk Art,” an exhibit of American and decorative objects from private collections, will open on Friday, October 1 and run through November 28. An Opening Reception will be held on October 1 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Objects on exhibition mainly derive from the Collections of John Cain, Executive Director of the South Sore Arts; Dr. Jan and Peter Hudak, of Crete, and Dr. Arthur and Marilyn Bourgeois, of Richton Park, Art Professors at Governors State University and Arthur Bourgeois and Thomas Lanham of the Field Museum curated 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 Historical Society
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.
GSU Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, 1 University Parkway
Sculpture Park Tours – Sunday, October 3
A free, guided tour of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park will take place on Sunday, October 3 at 2 p.m. Tours begin on the patio behind the Hall of Governors in the ‘D’ wing of GSU and last approximately one and a half hours. The park includes 26 sculptures by nationally and internationally recognized artists, including Mark diSuvero, Mary Miss, Bruce Nauman, Martin Puryear, and Richard Hunt. Comfortable footwear is recommended as there is extensive walking and occasionally the paths are uneven. For additional information, call 708-534-4486 or visit: www.govst.edu/sculpture.
Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway
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.
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 about Neil Goodman in the Park call 708-534-4486 or visit [email protected].
CAUTION – Featuring Songs of the Grateful Dead
Harte’s Saloon – Thursday, September 30
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.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Parent University – Begins October 2
The Family Development Center at GSU is sponsoring Parent University, a series of free presentations designed to give parents the information and insight they need to the issues, questions, and problems that come with raising children. Parent University begins on Monday, October 3 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with a presentation by Dr. Cyrus Ellis, Associate Professor of Counseling at GUS, entitled “Raising African American Boys to Men: A Workshop for Fathers.” Dr. Jon Carlson, Professor of Counseling, will present “Helping Your Child to Develop Self-Discipline” on Wednesday, October 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dr. Shannon Dermer, Associate Professor and Chair of the Division of Psychology and Counseling will present “Winning the Whining War” on Wednesday, October 27 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Each month through May 2011, Parent University will continue with presentations by experts designed to provide parents with valuable information and tools. All presentations are free and open to the public and are held at the Family Development Center on the GSU campus. For more information, call 708-235-7300. For a complete schedule of Parent University, visit: www.govst.edu/children.
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.
Roots & Shoots – Saturday, October 2
On Saturday, October 2 from 10 a.m. to noon, children ages 5 thru 10 are encouraged to explore the environment, their community and the world around them in this monthly program. There is a fee of $5 per child per month. For more information, call 708-747-6320.
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 30 – Final Week
Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are coming to GSU at its first-ever outdoor farmers market on Thursday, September 30 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 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.
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 30
On Thursday, September 30 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 visit www.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.
Coffee House/Karaoke Night – Friday, October 1
Celebration Ministries will host its monthly coffee house and karaoke night on Friday, October 1 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Come sing, dance, read, play a game, or sit back and relax. There will be fun for everyone. For more information, call 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.
Hallelujah Temple, 1 Dogwood St., Park Forest
Refreshing Times Senior Ministry – Friday, October 1
Adults 55 and older are invited to join us on Friday, October 1 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for this monthly support fellowship that combines food, interactive Christian Bible study, informative workshops, arts and crafts and birthday celebrations. For more information, call Mattie Morgan at 708-503-6536.
Rainbow Café
Monthly Meeting – Saturday, October 2
The Rainbow Café is an opportunity for single or partnered gays, lesbians, bisexuals or other sexual minorities, and their allies, over age 18 to meet one another and socialize in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Those attending are encouraged to bring some non-alcoholic drinks and a dessert or snack to pass, or bring a financial donation. However, neither is mandatory.
The Rainbow Café is held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the 1st Saturday of each month at the Unitarian-Universalist Community Church, 70 Sycamore
Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest
Harvest Fest – Saturday, October 2
On Saturday, October 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., discover the world of locally grown food during Harvest Fest. Sample tasty fall vegetables in cooking demonstrations, purchase organic vegetables from local farmers, as well as the extremely popular organic garlic grown on the Hornicek farm. Fun for the whole family. There is a fee of $5 per car or $1 per bicycle. For more information, call 708-747-6320.
St. Irenaeus Church, Indianwood Blvd. at South Orchard Dr., Park Forest
Blessing of the Animals – Saturday, October 2
In honor of the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, you and your animal friends are invited to the Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, October 2 at 9:30 a.m. For additional information, call 708-748-6891.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 2901 Western Ave., Park Forest
Pet Blessing – Sunday, October 3
On Sunday, October 3 at 1 p.m., bring your pets of all shapes and sizes to Trinity for a service of pet blessing. Treats will be served for humans and pets. 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.
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 bottles every 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.
