Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—March 20, 2016. Local food pantries estimate the need for food and household goods has more than doubled in the past five years. The need is especially high in the spring and summer months as donations decrease and supplies diminish. The south suburbs have a goal of collecting 30,000 pounds of food and household goods for families and individuals throughout the Chicago Southland Region. The Village of Park Forest’s Recreation and Parks Department is accepting donations of food and household goods through March 31. Additional information about what specific items can be donated and details on making your donation can be found in the ‘This & That’ section.
Congresswoman Robin Kelly is sponsoring the annual Congressional Art Competition open to high school students residing or attending a school within the Second Congressional District. The winner will have the opportunity to attend a ceremony this summer in Washington D.C., where his or her artwork will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year. Submissions are due by Friday, March 31. Additional information about the Art Competition can be found in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section.
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 RJPiserLPH@aol.com with the details. Submission deadline is noon on Friday of each week.
Village of Park Forest
Village Board Meeting – Monday, March 21
The Village Board will meet on Monday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend. Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers).
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site here and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.
Park Forest Vehicle Sticker Sales & Animal Registration – Now on Sale
Park Forest vehicle stickers for the 2016-2017 year are now on sale. Vehicle stickers must be displayed prior to May 1 on all vehicles registered with the State of Illinois with a Park Forest address, even if that vehicle is not located in Park Forest. Animal registration for the 2016-2017 year also on sale. View full vehicle sticker details.
Arts & Entertainment
All Chicago, 651 West Washington, Suite 504, Chicago
Handbags for Homes Event – Tickets Now on Sale
Handbags for Homes is a signature event for Chicago’s professional women to network, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and have fun while helping to end homelessness in Chicago. Handbags for Homes will showcase a fabulous collection of designer purses, which guests can win by buying raffle tickets. Check out this year’s purses here. The Handbags for Homes event will be held on Thursday, June 23 at 6 p.m. at the Women’s Athletic Club, 626 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago. Tickets are $75. Groups of 5 or more can purchase tickets for $350. Buy your tickets now! Proceeds for this event go directly to support our work to prevent and end homelessness. To join our Host Committee or learn about sponsorship opportunities: Please contact Stefanie Skaggs via phone at 312 379-0301 x26 or email at sskaggs@allchicago.org. About All Chicago: On any given night, more than 6,700 Chicagoans don’t have a place to call home. Tens of thousands more are just one unexpected setback away from joining them. All Chicago effectively combines immediate resources with long term strategies to address the complex issue of homelessness. Our Emergency Fund program provides critical financial assistance to people experiencing an emergency that could lead to homelessness or other crises. Our Chicago Alliance program analyzes, recommends, and collaboratively implements sustainable housing solutions for Chicago. Our Learning Center program researches leading practices and offers educational opportunities for all those working to end homelessness. To learn more about All Chicago, visit: http://www.allchicago.org/
Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
‘Eurydice’ – Tickets Now on Sale
Young love ended much too soon. Letters used for communication instead of speaking. A father-daughter relationship restored despite “the rules of the Underworld.” Characters called Stones. What more could you ask for in a good Greek tragedy? Immerse yourself in another-worldly experience on April 2 at 7:30 p.m. and April 3 at 2 p.m. when GSU’s Theatre and Performance Studies department stages Sarah Ruhl’s ‘Eurydice’ at Center for Performing Arts. Tickets are just $18 and $13 for students with valid I.D. The play is directed by Lydia Milman-Schmidt, who is making her debut at GSU. A retelling of the myth of Orpheus through a feminine lens: Eurydice’s point of view. Eurydice marries Orpheus, a musician who plays the most beautiful music on earth. On their wedding day, Eurydice tragically dies and enters the Underworld where she is reunited with her father. Orpheus grieves for Eurydice and despite his trouble communicating with words, he writes her letters. Following the traditional myth, the Lord of the Underworld agrees to let Eurydice go with Orpheus under one condition: Orpheus must walk back to the world of the living without looking back. Will he? And will she go back?
How to Buy Tickets
Online: CenterTickets.net
By Phone: 708-235-2222
In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Box Office Hours: Mon-Fri 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 2 hours prior to performances. Thursdays the Box office is open until 6p.m.
Download the Center’s APP: goo.gl/nqy4ul
A portion of GSU’s arts programming is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
GSU Dance Company’s Dance Festival – Tickets Now on Sale
The GSU Dance Company’s Dance Festival, featuring guest performers Fatal Dance, will be held on Thursday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m. The GSU Dance Company’s second production features an eclectic array of dance styles including contemporary, musical theatre jazz, afro-modern, and hip-hop. The Festival is produced by the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies. Tickets are $18 and $13 for students. BUY TICKETS. Please note that student tickets are not available online, but can be purchased at the Box Office or by calling 708-235-2222.
Congresswoman Robin Kelly, 600 Holiday Plaza Drive, Matteson
2nd Congressional District Art Competition – Submission Deadline Thursday, March 31
Congresswoman Robin Kelly is sponsoring the annual Congressional Art Competition open to high school students residing or attending a school within the Second Congressional District. The winner will have the opportunity to attend a ceremony this summer in Washington D.C., where his or her artwork will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year. The artwork of second- and third-place winners will be displayed in Rep. Kelly’s district offices. Students may submit their artwork from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Congresswoman Kelly’s Matteson Office, located at 600 Holiday Plaza Drive, Suite 505; at the Chicago Office, 9200 South Commercial Avenue, Suite 415; or to the satellite office located on the lower level of Kankakee City Hall. Please call Alan Banks at 708-679-0078 to arrange a drop-off time. The deadline for submissions is 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 31. Artwork must be two dimensional, framed no larger than 28” x 28” x 4” and can include paintings, drawings, collages, prints, photographs, computer generated art, or mixed media. All artwork must be original. Contest entry rules can be found at http://robinkelly.house.gov/services/art-competition. Congresswoman Kelly will host a reception where she will announce the winner and runners-up on April 9, beginning at 9 a.m., in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery at South Suburban College, 15800 State Street, South Holland. For more information, call Alan Banks at 708-679-0078. The high school art competition was established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982 to acknowledge and support the artistic talent of America’s young adults.
DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton, Chicago
‘Split Complementary’ Exhibition – Through April 24
With refined appreciation for materials, but very different approaches, the art of Dianna Frid and Richard Rezac meets on complementary grounds at DePaul Art Museum’s “Split Complementary” exhibition. The exhibition features installations, sculptures, books and wall art by the artists, as well as rare books from the Special Collections Department of DePaul’s John T. Richard Library, and a variety of objects from the DePaul Art Museum’s permanent collection. The items from the museum’s collection include a red hat from South Africa, a Turkish Ottoman miniature painting covered with written notations, South American photographs from the 1930s and other objects and images. ‘Split Contemporary’ will be on display at the DePaul Art Museum through April 24. The DePaul Art Museum at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is free. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://bit.ly/DPAM15.
‘Nexo/Nexus: Latin American Connections in the Midwest’ – Through April 24
‘Nexo / Nexus: Latin American Connections in the Midwest’ will be on display at the DePaul Art Museum through April 24. Drawn from museum’s permanent collection, alongside loans from private collections, the exhibition features Latin American artists in the region and explores their influences, connections and unique reflections of the people, culture and place. This exhibition is presented in conjunction with the 2016 Latino Art Now! Conference taking place this April. The DePaul Art Museum at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop, is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is free. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://bit.ly/DPAM15.
DePaul University Lincoln Park Campus, 2350 North Kenmore Avenue, Chicago
‘Building the Bridges of Faith’ Photo Exhibition of Papal Visits to the Holy Land – Through June 10
A photographic exploration of papal visits to Israel from 1964-2014 will be on display at DePaul University this spring in a special exhibition co-sponsored with the Consul General of Israel to the Midwest. The 44 historic images depict stirring scenes as well as quiet, intimate moments during visits to the Holy Land by some of the most well-traveled popes in history: Blessed Pope Paul VI, Pope Saint John Paul II, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. The exhibition titled ‘Building Bridges of Faith’ features papal visits to nearly a dozen Holy Land sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is recognized as the site of the crucifixion and tomb of Jesus of Nazareth; Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust; the Cenacle on Mt. Zion, traditionally held to be the site of the Last Supper; and the Western Wall. The archival images will be on display in the John T. Richardson Library, second floor, on DePaul’s Lincoln Park Campus in Chicago. The exhibition will be on display through June 10. The photographic exhibition at DePaul is one of three cultural events this spring co-sponsored with the Consul General of Israel to the Midwest. Each is designed to engage with the broader community and illustrate the positive interreligious dialogue between Catholics and Jews.
On April 18, a panel discussion titled “The Catholic Church, the Jewish People and the Jewish State” will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the Richardson Library, Room 400. Speakers include the Rev. John T. Pawlikowski, OSM, professor of social ethics and director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies Program at the Catholic Theological Union; Rabbi Yehiel Poupko, the Rabbinic Scholar at the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago; and Roey Gilad, Consul General of Israel to the Midwest. The discussion will be moderated by Thomas O’Brien, associate professor and director of the Center for Religion, Culture and Community at DePaul.
On May 18, There will be a reading of a version of the play “Imagining Heschel: In Search of Radical Amazement,” written by Colin Greer. The performance is scheduled for 6 p.m. in The Theatre School building, 2350 N. Racine Ave. The reading will be followed by a Q&A and reception. David Y. Chack, with DePaul’s Theatre Studies faculty, is the director. Chack also is the artistic director of ShPIeL and president of the Association for Jewish Theatre.
For additional information, please contact Alice Farrell in DePaul’s Office of Mission and Values, afarrell@depaul.edu or 312-362-8822.
DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine Avenue, Chicago
‘The Misanthrope’ – Tickets Now on Sale
The Theatre School at DePaul University presents a modern retelling of “The Misanthrope,” Molière’s classic comedy of manners and social niceties. The play is translated by Richard Wilbur and directed by Brian Balcom on the Fullerton Stage. The production opens Friday, April 15, and runs through Sunday, April 24, 2016. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Previews are April 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. When Alceste rails against the insincerities in his social circles, he risks losing his freedom, the attention of the lovely and flirtatious Célimène and his place in high society. This satire puts friends and gentlemen into a world of flattery and flaws in verse. What happens when we become overwhelmed by the adulation and the hypocritical buzz of our social networks?
Tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10 and student tickets are $5. Subscriptions and group rates (six or more people) are available. All tickets are reserved seating. Tickets are available by calling 773-325-7900 or online at http://theatre.depaul.edu. The Theatre School’s 2015-16 season in Lincoln Park is supported by presenting level sponsor PNC Bank. The Theatre School at DePaul University is easily accessible via the Fullerton CTA Station and the Fullerton (74) bus. Visitors and audience members can park in DePaul University’s Clifton Parking Deck, located at 2330 N. Clifton Ave. Please call the Box Office for more information. For patrons who are blind or have low-vision, the 2 p.m. performance April 24 will include audio description services, as well as a pre-performance touch tour. Call 773-325-7900. The April 24 performance will also be interpreted in American Sign Language. TTY: 773-325-7975. If patrons require wheelchair accessible and/or companion seating, or have any hearing or vision needs, please let the Box Office staff know upon reservation. Wednesday, April 20, at 7:30 p.m. is “USO of IL Night,” when U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families can attend the performance for free. Visit www.tixfortroops.org to reserve tickets, or call 773-325-7900 for more information. Additional special events include an Opening Night reception following the April 15 performance, and post-show discussions April 17 and 21.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Insider’s View of Hyde Park: The Art-Lovers Community – Limited Seating – Registration Now in Progress
Hyde Park is the quintessential arts community. Known for its acclaimed museums and dynamic neighborhood centers, Hyde Park is a haven for artists, curators and casual connoisseurs. Peter Slevin, Washington Post staff writer has said that “Hyde Park is all about the mix.” Get an insider’s view of this vibrant destination on Saturday, April 16 on an all-day tour with Governors State University’s Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Director Geoff Bates. The tour will focus on exploring significant works of sculpture and design. The chartered bus tour, “Hyde Park: Public & Private,” runs from 8:30 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. and includes:
A Visit to the Hyde Park Art Center, featuring exhibits “Who Cares for the Sky?” and “Rodrigo Lara Zendejas’ La Paz”
A visit to University of Chicago’s Smart Museum
Lunch at The Currency Exchange Café
A Tour of Theaster Gates most recent project, the celebrated Stony Island Arts Bank
A visit to Chicago master sculptor Lorado Taft’s Fountain of Time sculpture
The day will conclude with a wine reception at the home of retired professor and collector Dan Parker, who will share insights on his private collection of African and African-American art. The all-inclusive fee for the tour is $125, and seating is limited. Reservations for the tour can be made by contacting 708-235-7559. Chicago residents who are interested in joining the group in Hyde Park will be provided with directions for meeting the bus when they make their reservations. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University presents important artwork by a variety of nationally and internationally recognized sculptors. Thirty-two large-scale works are currently sited across over 100 acres of prairie landscape and are accessible to the public free-of-charge from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. For more information about the park and its programs, visit our website at www.govst.edu/sculpture.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Soaring Sounds’ – Tickets Now on Sale
‘Soaring Sounds’ will be performing on Saturday, April 9 at 8 p.m. at the Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 West College Drive, Palos Heights. ‘Soaring Sounds’ featuring the Roosevelt University Conservatory Chorus, will feature: Schubert’s Rosamunde Overture; Golijov’s Night of the Flying Horses and Schubert’s Mass No. 5 in A-flat Major with Chorus. For additional information, visit: www.ipomusic.org or call 708-481-7774.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
‘Operation Mom’s Couch’ – Through August 27
The NVAM announces the opening of its solo exhibition ‘Operation Mom’s Couch’ —the newest exploration of the veteran experience through the lens of an Airman and his cultural consumption of war stemming back to early childhood memories, juxtaposed with his lived authentic enlisted experience. The way in which war is broadcast to the public and consumed on couches all across the world—becoming a daily part of the home environment—is a phenomenon explored by retired Air Force veteran, and award-winning artist: Eric J. Garcia. The exhibit will run through August 27. Known for mixing history and culture with contemporary themes, Eric J. Garcia creates art that expands the genre beyond aesthetics. Garcia has shown in numerous national and international exhibitions, has received many awards such as the prestigious Jacob Javits Fellowship and is currently an artist in residence at the Hyde Park Art Center. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Garcia came to Chicago in 2007, to study at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago where he earned his Masters of Fine Arts degree. A versatile artist working in an assortment of media, from hand-printed posters, to published political cartoons, to sculptural installations, they all have a common goal of educating and challenging. While the NVAM is one of the only museums in the world to collect and exhibit artwork exclusively created by veterans in a permanent exhibition, it also provides important programming for veterans, their families, and the community. For more information about the National Veterans Art Museum, visit www.nvam.org, or call 312-326-0270.
Park Forest Historical Society, 227 Monee Road, Park Forest
‘Step Back Into a 1950s Easter’
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, at 227 Monee Road (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church) in Park Forest, Illinois currently has Easter baskets with period books, candy and decorations on display in the spring. Hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and by appointment on other days. There is a donation of $5 per adult; children 12 & under free with adult. For additional information, contact: Jane Nicoll at 708-481-4252 or Mike Gans at 708-305-3308 or visit www.parkforesthistory.org.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events are scheduled the week of March 20:
Monday, March 21 at 11 a.m. – Sunrise Story Time — Jump start your morning with a series of stories that are sure to get you moving. Ages 12 and under.
Monday, March 21 at 4 p.m. – Kids Checker Tournament — Checkers anyone? It’s tournament time! Ages 8 through 12. Registration is required.
Monday, March 21 at 4 p.m. – Yarn Easter Eggs — Join us for a fun, festive craft! Take home your own yarn Easter eggs.
Tuesday, March 22 at 3:30 p.m. — Art Extreme! — We’re taking art to the EXTREME! Explore a wide range of art through painting, drawing, building and more! Art has never been this fun. You don’t want to miss out. Ages 12 and under.
Tuesday, March 22 at 4 p.m. — Color-Rama! Coloring Circle — Are you a teen looking to take a break after school with a fun, fresh activity? Come relieve stress and show your creativity with other teens in our coloring circle!
Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m. – Pajama Storytime — Share special moments with your child through stories, crafts, and more. Wear your pj’s and wind down from a busy day. Ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, March 23 at 3:30 p.m. — Art Extreme! — We’re taking art to the EXTREME! Explore a wide range of art through painting, drawing, building and more! Art has never been this fun. You don’t want to miss out. Ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. – Writer’s Workshop — Want to improve your skills as a writer? Interested in sharing your ideas or written work with others? Come to the Park Forest Library and join other creators in our bi-monthly writers’ group, led by James Pressler, for all your writing wishes. Writers of all skill levels are welcomed.
Thursday, March 24 at 3:30 a.m. – Art in the Afternoon — Unleash your inner artist! Drop in to create an amazing project of your own. Ages 12 and under.
Thursday, March 24 at 6 p.m. – Teen Tech Zone Presents: Maze Runner – The Scorch Trials — “After having escaped the Maze, the Gladers now face a new set of challenges on the open roads of a desolate landscape filled with unimaginable obstacles.”
Friday, March 25 at 1 p.m. – Make & Take — Drop in and create something for yourself, your friend, or a relative! Ages 12 and under.
Friday, March 24 at 3 p.m. — Game Day Fridays — Show off your competitive side on Fridays in Teen Tech Zone. From board games to video games, there will be plenty of fun!
For additional information or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Potpourri of Lectures Series – Thursday, March 24
The Potpourri of Lectures Series will be held on Thursday, March 24 at 10:30 p.m. in the Library’s Ringering Room. This week’s lecture is “Insights Into the Craft of Writing” with Michael Burge. For additional information call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
‘Synergy’ High School Juried Art Exhibit – Through April 14
PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery will exhibit ‘Synergy,’ a juried art competition for high school students in Community College District 515. The exhibit will run through April 14. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The exhibit will feature computer art, drawing, graphic design, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture. Christopher Art Gallery is located on PSC’s main campus in Chicago Heights. Gallery Hours are Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. and by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 708-709-3636.
Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest
Thursday Game Days
Come join us at the Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, in DownTown Park Forest every Thursday morning at 10 a.m. to play games with old friends and new friends. We have a few games on hand, Trivial Pursuit, Racko, Pente, Chess, Pictionary, High Hand and Rummikub. If none of these suit your taste, feel free to bring in your favorites. Come join in the fun. This is a new program, so please help to spread the word.
Roosevelt University Gage Gallery, 18 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
‘One Percent: Privilege in a Time of Global Inequality’ – Through May 28
At a time when studies suggest the gap between rich and poor is growing, Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery will present a provocative and artistically driven photo exhibit that examines wealth and privilege around the world today. Opening for the first time in the United States, ‘One Percent: Privilege in a Time of Global Inequality’ features images by some of the world’s best photographers who have captured affluence in many different settings and situations. The exhibit will run through May 28. Featuring the work of more than 30 photographers who are known internationally, the exhibit is based on the book, One Percent: Privilege in a Time of Global Inequality. The show has been touring the world since September 2015 when it opened at the Pingyao International Photography Festival in Pingyao, China, making stops in Dubai, Germany, Nigeria, Guatemala, France and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sponsored by Roosevelt’s Department of Economics and College of Arts and Sciences, One Percent: Privilege in a Time of Global Inequality is possible thanks to generous financial support of Susan B. Rubnitz and Elyse Koren-Camarra. Exhibit viewing hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call 312-341-6458 or visit www.roosevelt.edu/gagegallery.
Tall Grass Art Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Ancestors: Art and Artifacts of Africa’ – Through April 16
Tall Grass Arts Association will present a major cultural and historical exhibit, ‘Ancestors: Art and Artifacts of Africa,’ through April 16. The will also be a lecture and opportunity to meet the collector on Wednesday, March 30, 7 p.m. The exhibit and lecture are free and open to the public. All traditional African Art objects in an extended sense refer to ancestors whether they are intended to depict them or not. Some symbolize spirits, others represent powerful objects of magic or reference ancestral wisdom, yet undoubtedly ancestors continue as intermediaries. More than seventy works of art will be on display. Most are carved of wood, others are made of ceramic, and some cast in bronze. Most of the objects date from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Art objects will be accompanied by photographic wall murals of traditional rather than modern life in Sub-Sahara Africa. Objects have been loaned to Tall Grass Arts Association by several prominent private collectors, namely, Dr. Peter Gould of Haddonfield, New Jersey, and others. Dr. Arthur P. Bourgeois, of Governors State University, and Mr. Scott Rodolitz, of Keene, New Hampshire, serve as both organizers and curators of this exhibition which includes a published catalog. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. For additional information, visit www.tallgrassarts.org or call 708-748-3377.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
‘A Curious Reality’— Through March 26
USG will be hosting a National Juried Exhibit ‘A Curious Reality’ which has works that portray alternate universes and realities. In an era of pop culture that feeds us both mythological creatures and the apocalypse, Union Street Gallery will be exhibiting art that not only challenges the perceptions of reality but also engages in artistic expression within science fiction, mythology, gaming, and futuristic themes. For those of us who have grown up with the X-Files and video gaming, these conceptions of imagined futures, alternate realities, and alien life have influenced our awareness of these possibilities. Artists from all over the country have submitted works such as full scale models of androids to re-imagined versions of classic art with a science fiction twist. The exhibit will run through March 26. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-754-2601 or visit http://www.unionstreetgallery.org
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Street, Park Forest
‘Call of Life’ Screening – Friday, March 25
UUCC will screen the documentary film ‘Call of Life’ on Friday, March 25 at 7 p.m. A discussion will follow the film. ‘Call of Life’ examines the collective and individual responses that will be needed to mitigate the impacts of the mass extinction and makes clear the critical choices we have before us. We face the potential of the natural world devastated beyond recognition, with the loss of human life in the billions. Yet, we still have time to avert the worst of the crisis and save much of the biosphere, if we act now. The first step to is to create broad public awareness of the problem—its magnitude and its implications. Only then can our whole society begin to recognize the systemic changes that will be required. The solution is clear: in order to save our planet and secure a future for our own species and all species, we need a new worldview. We must recognize that technology alone cannot save us. We must realize that business-as-usual is no longer an option. Instead, we need to create fundamental change in our culture, our minds, and our hearts. Unique among all human generations, those of us alive today have been given a great opportunity: one last chance to preserve the vitality and magnificence of the living planet that brought us into being, and is our only home. The event is free and open to the public. Coffee, tea and snacks will be provided. Bring a snack to share if you wish. Optional donations gratefully appreciated. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Home Concert with Political Satirist Tom Neilson – Sunday, April 10 — Limited Seating
Political satirist Tom Neilson will perform a home concert at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 10 at the Waters Edge Condo, 3505 Lakeview Drive in Hazel Crest. Tom provides a voice for those who believe in the power of folk music to effect change. His award-winning songs of humor and compassion have been performed in 21 countries on 5 continents. His lyrics are celebrated for their sophistication, political astuteness, & wit. There is a suggested donation of $10 – $20. Bring along snacks/drinks to share if you wish. Space is limited. Send your check to:
Tom Neilson c/o Bartlett
66 Water Street
Park Forest, IL 60466
For additional information or questions, call 708-363-1188 or email Nana0801@att.net.
Veterans for Peace, Chicago
Screening of Documentary Film ‘Of Men and War’ – Thursday, March 31
Veterans for Peace will host a one night only showing of the documentary ‘Of Men and War’ on Thursday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kerasotes ShowPlace Icon Theater, 1011 South Delano Ct., Chicago. A question and answer session will follow the film screening. The warriors in ‘Of Men and War’ have come home to the United States, but their minds remain on the battlefield. Anger consumes them long after their return from the front. Like figures from a Greek tragedy, all have traumatic memories that haunt them to this day. At The Pathway Home, a first-of-its-kind PTSD therapy center, the film’s subjects resolve to end the ongoing destruction of their well-being. Their therapist, who is also a Vietnam Vet, helps the young men forge meaning from their trauma. Over years of therapy, the film explores their grueling paths to recovery, as they attempt to make peace with their past, their families and themselves. Tickets are $9 and can be purchased at: https://www.tugg.com/events/92478. Please Note: This event will only take place if 60 or more tickets are sold via the above link. Please purchase your tickets today. Bring a friend or give them to someone who needs to understand the effects of war on veterans. Veterans For Peace is an international 501(c) 3 organization of veterans and allies whose primary purpose is world peace. We are the only veteran’s organization in the world that is recognized by the United Nations.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Graduate Program Open House – Registration Now in Progress
GRE test-taking strategies, choosing the right graduate program, and financing your education are all topics that will be discussed at the Graduate Program Open House at Governors State University on Saturday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees will learn from experts in breakout sessions designed to answer questions about these important issues. GSU offers master’s degree programs, specialist degree program and professional doctoral degree programs as well as graduate-level certificates in a variety of areas from healthcare to business and education to arts and sciences. Prospective students who attend the Graduate Program Open House will receive a waiver code for their application fee. Programs requiring application through the CAS system are excluded from this offer. The GSU Graduate Open House is free and open to the public. Advance registration is requested by April 8. To register, go to www.govst.edu/grad-openhouse. For more information, call 708-534-4086 or janderson13@govst.edu.
Roosevelt University, 2250 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago
Philosopher Kwame Anthony Appiah Lecture – Tuesday, March 29
World-renowned intellectual Kwame Anthony Appiah will speak on “Education for Global Citizenship and the Crisis Facing Black America” March 29 at DePaul University’s Lincoln Park Campus. The event is hosted by the Institute for Daisaku Ikeda Studies in Education at DePaul. Ikeda, a Buddhist leader, peacebuilder, writer, poet and educator, is the founder of several institutes of peace, culture and educational research across Asia, Europe and the U.S. Appiah is an internationally recognized philosopher, cultural theorist and scholar of African and African-American studies. He is the recipient of the 2012 White House National Humanities Medal and was named one of Foreign Policy magazine’s Top 100 Global Thinkers. He writes the New York Times Magazine column “The Ethicist,” where he considers ethical quandaries of readers. Appiah is a professor of philosophy and law at New York University. Born in London, Appiah earned undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees in philosophy from Clare College, Cambridge University. He is the author of several books including “Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a World of Strangers” and “Lines of Descent: W.E.B. DuBois and the Emergence of Identity.” The lecture begins at 6 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 120 of DePaul’s Lincoln Park Campus in Chicago. The event is open to the public. RSVP at IkedaInstitute@depaul.edu. The Institute for Daisaku Ikeda Studies in Education was established at DePaul in 2014. Its purpose is to research the philosophies and practices of Ikeda and Japanese educators Josei Toda and Tsunesaburo Makiguchi. Additional information is online at http://bit.ly/DPU_Ikeda.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
Women’s History Month Event – Wednesday, March 30
SSC’s next Women’s History Programming event is “The Non-Traditional Workforce for Women & Men.” This panel of students, workers in their fields, along with SSC educators and staff, will discuss and show the importance of non-traditional job roles for both male and female workers. Additionally, they will highlight how various professions have changed throughout the years, and how South Suburban College can help individuals get a head start, a certificate, or a degree toward these professions, many often paying $50,000 a year or more. Students, faculty, staff and the community are invited. The event is planned for Wednesday, March 30, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland, IL. More information is available by calling Corrie Gray at 708-596-2000, ext. 2499 or Patrice Burton at ext. 5841.
‘The Non-Traditional Workforce for Men and Women’ Event – Wednesday, March 30
SSC’s Office of Student Life and Leadership will present ‘The Non-Traditional Workforce for Men and Women’ on Wednesday, March 30, 2016, from 12:00-2:00pm in the Kindig Performing Arts Center located on SSC’s main campus in South Holland. Students, faculty, staff and the community are invited to listen to and engage in meaningful dialogue with a panel filled with our own faculty and staff. They will discuss and show the importance of non-traditional job roles, how they have changed throughout the years, and how South Suburban College can help you get a head start, a certificate, or degree towards these professions. Non-traditional career training for women offered at SSC includes our new Welding Program, Highway Construction and Trades, Building and Construction, Computer Science, Applied Engineering Technology, Cisco Academy, Truck Driving, and more. Non-Traditional career training for men offered at SSC includes Nursing, Teacher Aide, Paralegal, Administrative Assistant and more. Join us for this exciting event. For more information please contact the Office of Student Life & Leadership at 708-596-2000, ext. 2499. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at 708-210-5718.
Online Educational Resources
Online college programs are a great way for today’s busy people to complete or earn a degree. To find an online college program in Illinois, visit http://www.onlineschools.org/guides/Illinois/ where you will find a compilation of every college program offered online in Illinois offered on a full or part-time basis.
Top U.S. Universities
Choosing what college or university to attend can be a very daunting experience. With educational costs continually increasing, it’s more important than ever to choose a university that meets your specific educational needs. At http://www.topschools.com/, you will find a comprehensive resource that ranks each university throughout the nation by size, degrees offered, tuition costs, admission, graduation and retention rates.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Applications for 2016 Village of Park Forest Scholarships — Now Being Accepted
The Village of Park Forest Scholarship helps provide financial assistance to Park Forest residents. Recipients of the Park Forest Scholarship demonstrate strong academic ability and a high level of character.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Must be a Park Forest resident
Must be a graduating high school senior
Must be able to illustrate your educational and career goals
Must submit only one application
Must be willing to have your story told
Requirements
Park Forest Scholarship: Minimum G.P.A. of 2.75
Dr. Ken W. Kramer Scholarship: Minimum G.P.A of 3.75
Scholarship Awards
Park Forest will award three Park Forest Scholarships in the amount of $500 to first-year college students with a high school G.P.A. of at least 2.75.
Park Forest will award one Dr. Ken W. Kramer Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to a first-year college student with a high school G.P.A of at least 3.75.
*Applicants do not need to specify which award they are applying for.
The selection process takes into consideration academic performance, activities and involvement outside of the classroom, need, as well as academic improvement.
Deadline
April 15, 2016 at 5 p.m.
Disbursement of Awards
Unless requested to be applied towards a different term, funds will be paid directly to the educational institution of each respective award recipient during the first term. Should a student request to have funds applied to a different term during the first year of coursework, scholarship dollars must be applied to the student’s account no later than May 31, 2017 or the dollars are forfeited. Students will not receive cash.
Additional scholarships available!
The Park Forest Youth Commission has two scholarship awards available to Park Forest residents; one for high school seniors and a second for continuing college students. To apply now, click here.
Green Events
Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Park Forest
Acclaimed Photographer, Tom Ulrich to Speak – Wednesday, April 6
Thorn Creek Audubon Society will host Tom Ulrich, an acclaimed professional photographer, on Wednesday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Freedom Hall, 400 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest. Tom will take us through a dozen countries where we’ll see amazing photos of birds, butterflies, mammals and reptiles.
The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Optional donations will be gratefully accepted.
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Become a ‘Friend of Thorn Creek’
Friends of Thorn Creek Woods is the citizen activist group responsible in very large part for preserving and securing the dedication of the Thorn Creek Woods as an Illinois Nature Preserve. Friends’ volunteers continue to provide support in so many ways: staff the nature center on weekends; trail work; displays; leading hikes; special events; cleaning; pruning; artwork; music; research; and so on. Friends is a voice for the Woods and preservation values, donates funds for equipment and sponsors an annual meeting, Garlic Fest and Earth Day. Members receive a quarterly newsletter. Annual membership in Friends is $10. For additional information, call 708-747-6320 or visit www.tcwoods.org.
Experience the Thorn Creek Nature Center
Thorn Creek Nature Center is housed in a historic building, originally Immanuel Lutheran Church of Matteson, Illinois built in 1862, and later Village Bible Church of Park Forest. A gothic frame country church, its notable architectural features include curved ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling and a raised pulpit. Its current attractions are displays of the preserve’s flora and fauna, a bird feeder viewing area, Eugene E. Schwartz reference library and an expanded children’s section. The Nature Center is open Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Trails are open daily year-round, dawn to dusk. For additional information, call 708-747-6320 or visit www.tcwoods.org.
Healthy Living
Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Yoga Classes – Registration Now in Progress
Registration is now being taken for a Yoga class for people who haven’t stretched in while or maybe have never stretched to help them to get more flexible and more pliable to perform everyday activities. Yoga class will be held at Freedom Hall in Park Forest on Thursdays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. March 31 through April 28. There is a fee of $55 for the class. For additional information, or to register, contact Deaneen Merritt, Wellness Coach & Personal Trainer, at 708-872-7431 or email deaneenm@gmail.com.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Free Psychotherapy Available from GSU’s Psychology Program
GSU’s Psychology Department is offering free psychotherapy services to members of the community. Conversations with a psychotherapist can help people cope with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transition problems. Confidential, one-on-one sessions are held with a GSU graduate student in psychology under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Individuals and couples, 18 years and older, are eligible. All sessions are conducted in Matteson, IL. The number of sessions is determined by the client’s needs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 708-235-2841.
Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard, Park Forest
CPR Classes
CPR classes are available at the Park Forest Fire Department. Click on the following link for more details: http://pffd.vopf.com/cpr-classes.html
Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)
Assistance With Medications & Health Services
If you, or someone you know, are struggling to pay for medications every month, they may be able to get the medicines they need for free or almost free through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. If you live in Illinois, you can get access to more than 475 public and private program available to help you pay for your medicines. Simply visit http://www.pparx.org/en/click_illinois to find out if you can apply to any of these great programs and to get connected with 10,000 free clinics and doctors.
Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street, Alsip
Free Community Education and Prevention Programs about Mental Health
Sertoma Centre’s Mental Health Services facility is offering community mental health seminars, free of charge to community groups, schools, law enforcement agencies, religious organizations, and other community groups at their location in Matteson or facility. Education Programs will include: Question, Persuade, and Refer (QPR) which increases public awareness of suicide and improves one’s ability to identify and refer those at risk for suicide. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education course that helps participants identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. Also included is Mental Health First Aid for Youth and Anxiety/Depression Screenings. Thanks to a grant, these educational opportunities are available at no cost to you or your organization. To arrange a free educational opportunity for your club, group, workplace, organization, or church, call Gia Washington at 708-748-1951, Ext. 418 or email at gwashington@sertomacentre.org.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest
Yoga Classes by Karen Nielsen – Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays
Yoga classes by Karen Nielsen are available at UUCC on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No reservations needed. Drop-in fee is $10 per class and the 6th one is free. For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Qigong with Jim Kobus – Most Thursdays
UUCC will host Qigong with Jim Kobus on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the church. This class will usually meet on Thursdays but there may be exceptions, so if you are interested in attending, please send an email to Jim Kobus at emiton1@gmail.com so he can notify you when class will NOT be held. There is a suggested donation of $5 per class. Please bring your own water. It is recommended that you eat dinner after class, not before. For additional information, please call 708-799-1925 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
Buddhist Meditation – Saturdays
Learn to enjoy the simple and straight-forward practice of meditation. Please join us for sitting and walking meditation in the Zen and Theravadan Buddhist traditions. This is an on-going event led by Steve McCabe and Beverly Feldt will be held on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at UUCC. There is no cost but a free will offering is most appreciated (proceeds go to UUCC). For additional information contact Steve McCabe at 708-465-3116 or Beverly Feldt at bevfeldt@gmail.com.
This & That
Calvary United Protestant Church, 425 North Orchard Drive, Park Forest
Save the Date for the Annual Chat-n-Chew Bazaar: A Community Craft and Health Fair on June 11 – Call For Additional Vendors
Calvary United Protestant Church will host its annual Chat-n-Chew Bazaar: A Community Craft and Health Fair on Saturday, June 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Bazaar will feature food, arts and crafts, music, dancing, games and lots of fun for everyone of all ages. Free yard plants will be available while quantities last. There will also be health screenings, health and wellness, information, dental, insurance and holistic medicine information. If you are a craft and/or health vendor and would like to participate in the event, please call 708-283-4190. Be sure to mark your calendar and plan on attending this fun-filled event. Calvary United Protestant Church is located at Orchard Drive and Lincoln Highway (Rt. 30).
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Spring Career and Internship Fair – Thursday, April 14
The Spring Career and Internship Fair at GSU is a chance for job seekers to meet with potential employers and discover job and internship opportunities. The Office of Career Services at GSU is sponsoring the fair for people interested in jobs and internship opportunities in communications, technology, business, public administration, criminal justice, addiction studies, community health, and education. The Spring Career and Internship Fair will be held on Thursday, April 14, from 2-5 p.m., in the Hall of Governors and the Center for Performing Arts Lobby on the university’s main campus. This is an opportunity to match jobs and internships positions with qualified personnel. This event is free and open to the public. Current students, alumni, and community members are invited to attend. Potential employers are also invited to register as participants through the Office of Career Services by the employee registration deadline of March 18, 2016.
Park Forest Rotary Club
‘Books 2 Meals’ Book Sale – April 1 through 3
The Park Forest Rotary Club will be hosting a fundraising event offering thousands of books, including some rare and vintage books sorted, categorized and reasonably priced. Other items for sale include Audio Books, CDs and DVDs. Proceeds from this sale will benefit the local food pantries. The event will be held in DownTown Park Forest at 298 Main Street (the former Commerce Arc location) on:
Friday, April 1, 2016 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday, April 2, 2016 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sunday, April 3, 2016 — 12 noon to 3 p.m.
If you are interested in donating items for the sale, please drop them off at the Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, or contact Jim Saxton, at 630-290-6887 to arrange to have them picked up.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
PSC Job Fair – Friday, April 1
PSC invites job seekers to attend the 2016 Spring Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, April 1, in the Conference Center of the college, located in Chicago Heights. The fair is co-sponsored with UPS and The Chicagoland Regional College Program. The job fair is free and open to the public, and will feature employers from various industries looking for employees with a range of education and experience levels. Company representatives will recruit for both full- and part-time positions, as well as internship opportunities. Several companies already are scheduled to participate, including the United States Postal Service, Mi-Jack Products, KinderCare Learning Center, ABC Auto Parts & Sales, Catholic Charities, St. James Health, Indian Oaks Academy, Rimland Services, SPEED District #802, and CAVO Broadband Communications, LLC. Employer registration is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and as space permits. New employers regularly are added. A complete, up-to-date listing of companies and the positions they are hiring for, as well as information about job seeker pre-registration, is available at www.prairiestate.edu/jobfair. Attendees are required to dress in professional business attire and encouraged to bring plenty of résumés. For more information about the job fair, contact Norfleet at 708-709-3755 or email the Student Career Development Center at careerdevelopment@prairiestate.edu.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Open Gyms in Park Forest
Open gyms are being offered throughout Park Forest.
The Rich East Parent Booster Club is sponsoring an open gym at Rich East High School, 300 Sauk Trail, on March 22, and 24. The open gyms are held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost is $4. Participants should enter through Door 11.
Park Forest’s Teen Zone program is also offering open gym events at Michelle Obama School (formerly Forest Train), 215 Wilson Street, for kids in grades 7 through 12. The open gyms are held from 6 to 10 p.m. The fee is $3. A picture ID is also required for admission.
Donations for Local Food Pantries – Accepted Through March 31
Local food pantries estimate the need for food and household goods has more than doubled in the past five years. The need is especially high in the spring and summer months as donations decrease and supplies diminish. Join us to help reach our goal of 30,000 pounds of food and household goods for families and individuals throughout the Chicago Southland Region. The Village of Park Forest’s Recreation and Parks Department will accept donations of food and household goods through March 31 on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What Can You Donate?
Canned fruits and veggies (pull tops if possible)
100% fruit and vegetable juice
Beans (canned and dry)
Pasta and Sauce
Bagged Rice
Chips and Cookies
Hamburger Helper, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Evaporated or Powdered Milk (packets)
Infant Supplies (baby food, formula, diapers)
Hygiene Supplies (feminine products, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, deodorant, laundry detergent)
Donations should be unopened and non-expired cans and boxes – no glass.