A tire swing in one of Park Forest’s parks
waits for a child to play. (Photo: Gary Kopycinski)
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—September 6, 2010.The Park Forest 2010 Autumn Recreation Programs & More and Fall/Winter 2010 – 2011 Calendar of Events brochures were mailed last week to Park Forest residents. If you did not receive your copies, please stop by Village Hall and pick them up. Remember, programs fill quickly, so if there is an activity that you or your children are interest in, please register soon.
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.
Labor Day in Park Forest
3rd Annual Running of the Park Forest Scenic 5 and More
This Labor Day, plan on joining the fun in Park Forest during the 3rd Annual running of the Park Forest Scenic 5 and More. This race has been reconstituted onto a 5 mile course and augmented with:
- 5K nature walk around the Central Park Wetlands, and
- A variety of other activities at the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 N. Orchard, Park Forest.
Events begin on Monday, September 6 at 8 a.m.(Orchard & Main Streets). Invite your friends to come out and cheer on the runners and bikers or better yet join in the fun and fitness of the event. For additional information, visit the Village’s website at: www.villageofparkforest.com
Labor Day Closings
In observance of the Labor Day Holiday, Park Forest Village Hall and the Park Forest Library will be closed on Monday, September 6. Regular hours and programs will resume on Tuesday, September 7.
Village of Park Forest Meetings
Village Board Meeting
The Village Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, September 7 at 8 p.m. at Village Hall. In addition, the Board will hold a Saturday Morning Rules Meeting on September 11 beginning at 10 a.m. 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
Park Forest Commissions & Advisory Boards
The following Village Commission will meet this week:
- Plan Commission – Tuesday, September 7 at 7:00 p.m.
The meeting will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend.
‘Green’ Events
Thorn Creek Audubon Society
Field Trip to Old Plank Road Trail – Wednesday, September 8
On Wednesday, September 8 at 8 a.m. at Old Plank Road Trail, we will be spotting Herons, Cormorants, Caspian Terns, late warblers, including Palm and Yellow-rumped, native sparrows, Cedar Waxwings, various ducks and even Peregrine Falcons. More than 140 species have been seen here. Meet along Miller Drive, near the former University of Illinois extension building. 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.
Field Trip to Sand Ridge Preserve – Saturday, September 11
On Saturday, September 11 at 8 a.m. TCAS will hold a filed trip to Sand Ridge Preserve. Trails with boardwalks make the walking easy and the birding rewarding among the pine plantations, deciduous woods, restored prairie, wetlands and sand ridges that surround the Nature Center. Kingfishers, ducks, and late fall warblers may be seen. Meet at the parking lot on the east side of Paxton Avenue, just a short distance north from 159th Street (about a mile east of the Bishop Ford, but west of Torrence. For additional information, if you need a ride or want to car pool, or learn how to become a member of TCAS, call Bob Harrison at 708-68909693 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.
Arts & Entertainment
Park Forest Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events will be held this week at the Park Forest Library:
| Wednesday, September 8 | 10:30 a.m. | Lap, Sit Storytime |
| Wednesday, September | 10:30 a.m. | Toddler Art |
Saturday, September 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – “I Love You More Than Ice Cream” Grandparents’ Day Celebration. Reservations suggested.
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
“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.
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.
Tall Grass Art Film Discussion Series – Sunday, September 12
On Sunday, September 12 at 6:30 p.m., The Secret in Their Eyes will be shown at the Marcus Theatre, 1301 Hilltop Avenue, Chicago Heights, IL. A facilitated discussion will be held after the film. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Tall Grass Art Gallery at 708-748-3377.
Faith United Protestant Church, 10 Hemlock St., Park Forest
5th Annual Barbary Coast Dixieland Band Concert – Friday, September 10
On Friday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m., join Faith United Protestant Church for their 5th Annual Barbary Coast Dixieland Band program. Tickets are $12 per person and can be purchased by calling the church office at 708-747-1330 or visit www.barbary-coast.com. 10% of the proceeds go to the Rich Township Pantry.
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.
Center For Performing Arts at GSU, 1 University Parkway
All Star Night of Blues – Saturday, September 11
On Saturday, September 11 at 7:30 p.m., Electro Glide Records presents an All-Star Blues Jam that you won’t want to miss. Hosted by Electro Glide Records guitar sensation, Jimmy Warren, with his "rockin style" of blues, the evening includes performances by:
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Lonnie Brooks, a blues legend recently inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame who is known for his "Louisiana Swamp Style";
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Larry McCray, "The Delta Hurricane," known for his electrifying guitar solos and powerful vocals; and
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Chris Beard, a bluesman that is known both for his "down-and-dirty" traditional blues and his showmanship.
Before the Jimmy Warren Band and the all-star cast takes the stage, The Catch Blues Band and Big Dog Mercer will warm up the crowd with a few songs to pave the way for an unbelievable evening of blues at its best.
Tickets prices are $20, $25, and $30. To purchase tickets, visit: http://www.centertickets.net/tickets_events.aspx?id=36856
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
“Figures in Abstraction” – Through September 8
The Visual Arts Gallery at GSU will present “Figures in Abstraction,” an exhibit of oil paintings by Karen Keorpes of Orland Park. This solo exhibit will run through September 8. 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 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 9
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
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
AARP Safe Driving Program – Tuesday, September 7
The AARP Safe Driving Classes will be held on Tuesday, September 7 at 9 a.m. at Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The course qualifies seniors for a discount on the liability portion of their car insurance. The discount is good for three years, but you must contact your insurance company. The fee for the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Payment by check ONLY, must be brought to class, along with your AARP membership card. Call the Rich Township Senior Center at 708-748-5454 or Brenda Walker at the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118 to make your reservation.
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.
Owl Prowl Night Hikes – Friday, September 10 and Saturday, September 11
Did you know that three owl species call Thorn Creek Nature Preserve home? In this popular program you will learn the habits and calls of the Barred Owl, Screech Owl and Great-horned Owl. The event will be held on:
- Friday, September 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for adults only, and
- Saturday, September 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for those of all ages.
There is a fee of $5 per person and family rates will apply for the Saturday event. Register early for this popular program as there is limited space available. For more information or to register, 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 9
Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are coming to GSU at its first-ever outdoor farmers market on Thursday, September 9 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
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
National Suicide Prevention Day – Wednesday, September 8
GSU will mark National Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday, September 8 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Hall of Governors and from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Engbretson Hall. During the presentation, participants will learn the warning signs of suicide, along with facts and myths about suicide and prevention measures. Information will be distributed during the day’s activities, including suicide prevention cards that include warning signs, and contact information for the national suicide prevention lifeline. Brochures on depression and stress management will also be distributed. Activities are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served during the pretensions. For more information, call 708-235-2228.
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)
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 Lions Club Gigantic Garage Sale & Rib Fest – Saturday, September 11
On Saturday, September 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Park Forest Lions Club will hold its Gigantic Garage Sale & Rib Fest at Glenwood Plaza, 183 & Halsted St., Glenwood, IL. Rent a space to sell your garage/household goods or come to shop for treasures. After shopping, enjoy a rib dinner at the Glenwood Lions Club Rib Rest from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 708-748-7120.
St. Irenaeus Church, 207 S. Orchard Drive, Park Forest
Church Ladies Rummage Sale – Saturday, September 11
On Saturday, September 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the school gym, you can find just about anything your heart desires at Church Ladies Rummage Sale. Many sellers, great stuff – maybe some with your name on it! Tables inside and outside. Refreshments will be available. Being held rain or shine. Plenty of parking. Contact the Parish office for more information at 708-748-6891.
Kiwanis Pancake Day – Tickets Now On Sale
The 59th Annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, a Park Forest tradition, will take place this year 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. Tickets can be purchased at the Farmers Market during September and at Village Hall. For more information, call Michele Johnson at 708-278-0008.
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.
Homecoming Sunday Picnic – September 12
Faith United Protestant Church is celebrating Homecoming Sunday on September 12 by having a picnic following the 10:15 a.m. service. Activities for all ages are planned. Food and beverages will be provided. For more information, call Faith United Church Office at 708-747-1330.
Celebration Ministries, 424 Indianwood, Park Forest
Connect Café – Thursday, September 9
On Thursday, September 9 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.
Men’s Breakfast Fellowship – Saturday, September 11
Join the Men’s Ministry on Saturday, September 11 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for food and discussion. There will be a variety of topics discussed. All ages are welcome. This event will be held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. For more information, contact 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.
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
Garden Club of Park Forest – Tuesday, September 7
The Garden Club of Park Forest invites you to its monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 7 to learn about gardening in a friendly environment. The Garden Club is instrumental in the advancement of gardening, conservation and promotion of civic beautification, and related philanthropies. For more information about the Garden Club or the time and location of the monthly meeting, call Alice Michalak at 708-748-3654 or Margaret Warden at 708-672-7928.
Park Forest Stamp Club – Tuesday, September 7
The Park Forest Stamp Club will meet on Tuesday, September 7 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 7
The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest will meet on Tuesday, September 7. 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.
Southland Community Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago Annual Membership Tea – Wednesday, September 8
The Southland Community Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago invites residents of the Southland area to its Annual Membership Tea on Wednesday, September 8 at Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL. Tea will be served at 1 p.m. in the Hall of Honors. At 2 p.m. following refreshments, a lecture titled “It Only Hurts When You Laugh: Satire and Controversy in Art” will be presented by Annie Morse in Engebretson Hall. No reservations are necessary and guests are welcome. For more information, call Judith Hook at 708-499-9447.
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, Center for Performing Arts, Union Street Gallery, Park Forest Rotary Club, South Suburban Family Shelter, Park Forest Historical Society, Illinois Theatre Center, CAUTION, Sertoma Centre, Inc., Tall Grass Arts Association, Thorn Creek Audubon Society websites.
