Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—June 5, 2016. Since 1952, the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 North Orchard Street, has been one of Chicagoland’s premier outdoor pool experiences. The Park Forest Aqua Center is three pools in one, providing a quality summer experience for whatever your age. The Aqua Center is now open and passes are now available for sale. More about the Aqua Center can be found in the ‘This & That’ section.
The Center for Multicultural Communities at Prairie State College, 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights will present a program on ‘Enhancing Community and Police Relations’ on Monday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Prairie State College Auditorium in Chicago Heights. Participants will hear expert presenters provide preventative life-saving guidelines for improving community and police relations in our region. Additional information about the event can be found in the ‘This & That’ section.
If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in the community, please send an e-mail to RJPiserLPH@aol.com with the details no later than Friday of each week. Thank you.
Village of Park Forest
Village Board Meeting
The Village of Park Forest Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, June 6 at 7 p.m. The Village Board meets 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.
Village Commissions & Advisory Boards
The following Park Forest Commission is currently scheduled to meet the week of June 5:
Tuesday, June 7 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
The meeting will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Arts & Entertainment
AARP Rich Township Chapter #4576
Spring Fling – Monday, June 20
AARP Rich Township Chapter #4576 invite you to attend the annual Spring Fling at the Shirley J. Green Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, in DownTown Park Forest, on Monday, June 20, at 1 p.m. Come out and enjoy fellowship, fun, food, and live entertainment celebrating Motown. Tickets are $10. For tickets, or for questions, call 708-748-5454.
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/
DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton, Chicago
‘Barbara Rossi’s: Poor Traits’ and ‘Eye Owe You!’ Art Exhibit – Through August 21
Chicago artist Barbara Rossi’s enigmatic drawings and meticulous Plexiglas paintings will be featured at the DePaul Art Museum through Aug. 21. ‘Barbara Rossi: Poor Traits’ is organized by Natalie Bell at the New Museum in New York and marks the most significant presentation of the artist’s work in 25 years. A companion exhibition, ‘Eye Owe You!’ will highlight Rossi’s photographs and artistic process. DePaul Art Museum has organized a companion exhibition, “Eye Owe You!” in close collaboration with Rossi as a way to illuminate her working process. The exhibition features 124 of Rossi’s photographs that have never been exhibited before. This personal archive of visual culture has informed her work for 40 years and also captures an important bygone era in Chicago’s visual urban landscape. Rossi earned her MFA from the School of the Art Institute, where she has taught drawing and painting since 1971. The images from 1971 to 1975 included in the exhibition are from Rossi’s vast collection of 35mm slides and align with the dates of the paintings in “Poor Traits.” Arranged by the artist in a specific sequence to correlate one image to the next, they document hand-painted outdoor signs and window displays in Chicago and cities around the world. A limited edition artist’s book of these images will be published by DePaul Art Museum. The DePaul Art Museum is located just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop. The museum hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://museums.depaul.edu/.
‘The Secret Birds’ – Through August 21
Chicago artist Tony Fitzpatrick will bring his signature brand of witty visual repartee to the DePaul Art Museum this spring with a display of his collage series ‘The Secret Birds.’ The exhibition will run through August 21, and is the largest presentation of his work to date with more than 50 of his intricately layered collages as well as 40 prints from the DePaul Art Museum collection that span more than two decades of the artist’s career. In his ongoing series ‘The Secret Birds,’ Fitzpatrick meticulously draws and layers images, poetry and found materials onto the page. He combines inspiration from his working class roots in Chicago and influences from folk art, comic book characters and tattoo imagery. Each drawn collage depicts a specific species of bird, ranging from the peregrine falcon to the common starling. Several of the works are commentaries on gun violence, drug abuse and other inequities and injustices found in Chicago and beyond. The event is free and open to the public. The DePaul Art Museum is located at 935 W. Fullerton, just east of the CTA’s Fullerton ‘L’ stop. The museum hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more on the DePaul Art Museum’s upcoming exhibitions and events, call 773-325-7506 or visit http://museums.depaul.edu/.
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. For additional information, please contact Alice Farrell in DePaul’s Office of Mission and Values, afarrell@depaul.edu or 312-362-8822.
The Drama Group, 330 West 202nd Street, Chicago Heights
‘Murder on the Nile – Opens Friday, June 10
The Drama Group is thrilled to present Agatha Christie’s suspenseful murder mystery, ‘Murder on the Nile’ directed by Warren Sampson. Performances will be held at the Drama Group Studio Theatre on June 10, 11, 16, 17 & 18 at 7:30 p.m. and matinees on June 12 & 19 at 2:00 p.m. ‘Murder on the Nile’ is based on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel Death on the Nile; one of the few in which Hercules Poirot is not involved. Fatal circumstances await a newlywed couple as they embark on a honeymoon voyage down the Nile. Simon Mostyn has recently married Kay Ridgeway, a rich woman, having thrown over his former lover Jacqueline; they are on a paddle steamer on the Nile, accompanied by a bevy of memorable characters – Canon Pennefather, Kay’s guardian, and Jacqueline, who has been dogging their footsteps all through the honeymoon. During the voyage Jacqueline works herself into a state of hysteria and shoots at Simon, wounding him in the knee. A few moments later Kay is found shot in her bunk. By the time the boat reaches its destination, Canon Pennefather has laid bare an audacious conspiracy and has made sure the criminals shall not go free. Tickets are $20 for adults; $19 for seniors and $15 for students with ID. Group discount rates are also available. Good seats are still available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 708-755-3444 or online http://www.brownpapertickets.com/profile/242073. The Drama Group Studio Theatre is located at 330 W. 202nd Street in Chicago Heights. For directions and other information regarding Drama Group activities, please visit our Web site at: www.dramagroup.org.
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 the 1950s at the Park Forest House Museum
The 1950s Park Forest House Museum at 227 Monee Road, (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church) in Park Forest, will give you a nostalgic look of what a Park Forest home and classroom once looked like. The Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and can also be open at other times by appointment for group tours. Donation is Adults $5; 12 & under free with an adult. Scout and school tours are priced individually. For details, to arrange a special group tour, or to volunteer, visit the Park Forest Historical Society website, www.parkforesthistory.org, or call Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events are scheduled for the week of June 5:
Monday, June 6 at 6:30 p.m. — Family Movie Night! ‘Hotel Transylvania 2’ — Dracula and his friends try to bring out the monster in his half human, half vampire grandson in order to keep Mavis from leaving the hotel.
Tuesday, June 7 ALL DAY — Drop-In Create Zone — Stop in kids’ zone and create something special today.
Tuesday, June 7 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!
Wednesday, June 8 at 11 a.m. — Lego Creative Building — Get Creative with Lego Building! Build cars, planes and more! Enjoy scavenging through a wide collection of blocks, gears and wheels. Stop by kids’ zone and build with us. Ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, June 8 at 4 p.m. — DIY: Origami Bookmarks — Prepare yourself for the Summer Reading Program! Hold you spot in a novel with creative origami bookmarks. Each one will be different, so come with many originals ideas!
Wednesday, June 8 at 4 p.m. — Color Me Happy Circle — Our coloring circle is the perfect way to step back from the stress of everyday life and enjoy some relaxation! All supplies will be provided.
Wednesday, June 8 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, June 9 at 11 a.m. — “LET THE GAMES BEGIN” Game Day! — Be a part of kids’ zones Game Day! Explore our wide collection of board games. Unplug from the millennium gadgets and experience fun with social interaction.
Thursday, June 9 at 4 p.m. — 90’s Sports Edition Teen Movie: ‘The Sandlot’ — When Scottie Smalls (Thomas Guiry) moves to a new neighborhood, he manages to make friends with a group of kids who play baseball at the sandlot. Together they go on a series of funny and touching adventures. The boys run into trouble when Smalls borrows a ball from his stepdad that gets hit over a fence.
Friday, June 10 at 11 a.m. — DIY Tie Dye Friday — Join us for one of the most POPULAR summer crafts! “TIE DYE”! Design your own T-Shirt, Scarf or Journal. You can bring your own t-shirt. Materials Provided. While supplies last.
Ages: 12 and Under
Friday, June 10 at 3 p.m. — “Gold Medal” Teen Game Day — Show off your competitive side with your friends! From board games to video games, there will be plenty of fun! Are you up to the challenge?
Saturday, June 11 ALL DAY — Drop- In Create Zone — Stop in kids’ zone and create something special today.
For additional information call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Friends of the Library Meeting – Tuesday, June 7
The Friends of the Library will meet on Tuesday, June 7 at 7 p.m. at the Park Forest Public Library. Support our mission to open doors to a world of information, education, and recreation. The event is open to the public. For additional information, contact Barbara Osuch at 708-748-3731, extension 16 or email Barbara.Osuch@pfpl.org.
Park Forest Public Library Now Hiring: Part Time Library Assistant
The Park Forest Public Library is seeking an enthusiastic, customer focused individual familiar with technology and popular culture. Duties include processing new materials for circulation, facilitating hands-on programs, checking in and out materials, answering patron questions, assisting patrons with research and computer usage, assisting in Library programs for both adults and children, shelving materials, and performing readers’ advisory. To apply and view the entire job listing, click here or check the Employment Opportunities tab on the left side of the Library’s home page, www.pfpl.org.
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.
RTA Presentation – Monday, June 6
A representative from the RTA will come to our center at 297 Liberty Drive and present a transit orientation program on Monday, June 6 at 1 p.m. We will learn how easy the buses and trains are to use. We will find out what options we have to enjoy independent travel. Topics covered will include an overview of Ventra, how to get reduced fare or ride free permits, planning trips using Metra, Pace and RTA and a Q&A with the representative.
Movie of the Month – Wednesday, June 8
On Wednesday, June 8 at 1 p.m. our Rich Township Senior Center will present the new release “Joy,” starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and Robert DeNiro. Joy, a divorced mother of two, risks her life’s savings to produce and market her invention, the Miracle Mop. Joy faces opposition from her dysfunctional family, including her father, as they meddle in her burgeoning business. The film is rated PG-13 and runs 2 hours and 4 minutes. Please call our senior center at 708-748-5454 to make your reservations. Popcorn will be served.
Adult Coloring – Tuesday, June 14
A new Adult Coloring program will be held on Tuesday, June 14 at 10 a.m. at the Senior Center. We will provide mandalas and pictures to color. The mandala has the power to promote relaxation, balance the body’s energies, enhance your creativity and support healing. The great news is you can achieve all of these benefits while having fun with your mandala coloring pages. There are no rules. Use any colors you want. Color at your own pace. We will have colored pencils and markers available for our use. This ongoing program will be held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the money.
Tall Grass Art Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Neutral Ground: Somewhere Between Black and White’ – Opens Friday, June 17
Tall Grass Arts Association Gallery, 367 Artists Walk in DownTown Park Forest, will host the exhibition ‘Neutral Ground: Somewhere Between Black and White’ which will open on June 17 and run through July 23. An opening night reception will be held on Friday, June 17 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with an Artist’s Talk on Saturday, June 18. The exhibit, reception and artist’s talk are free and open to the public. This invitational show of artwork is created predominantly in black & white media. The nine exhibiting artists are Carol Weber, Mike Wasnowski, Joanne Venheizer, Sara Schleicher, Jennifer Moore, Corey Hagelberg, Jennifer Cronin, Michael Barnes, and Joanne Aono. Curated by Mary Bookwalter. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m., to 4 p.m. The Gallery is closed on Sunday and Monday. For additional information, please call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
Annual Garage & Vintage Sale – June 11 & 12
USG will hold its annual Garage & Vintage Sale on June 11 & 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. This year’s sale will be held at St. Kieran’s Gymnasium 724 195th St, Chicago Heights. St. Kieran’s has a large parking lot and almost no stairs with much more space. Items for sale include: antiques, collectables, jewelry, watches, household items, paintings, small furniture, toys, games, electronics, books, dishes, glassware, CDs, DVDs, lamps, linens, towels, decorative items, art and craft supplies, dolls, frames, purses, luggage, Art, pillows, storage containers, cards, seasonal decorations, vintage and designer clothing, purses, jewelry, and accessories. For additional information, visit: http://www.unionstreetgallery.org
12th Annual Garden Walk – Tickets Now on Sale
USC will be hosting its 12th Annual Garden Walk on Saturday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine. Participants will be able to view 10 summer gardens with an artist’s eye. Be inspired! by the Gardeners’ Craft and the Visual Artists who will paint their visions in each of 10 creative gardens in Homewood, Flossmoor, Chicago Heights, South Chicago Heights and Park Forest. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event. Tickets are available online through PayPal or by cash or check at the Gallery. For more information, click here.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
Fall 2016 Registration Open at PSC
Registration for fall 2016 is open at PSC. Credit courses begin Monday, Aug. 22. Non-credit courses include a variety of single-day and multiple-session offerings that begin throughout the fall. PSC offers convenient, flexible scheduling options. Students can choose their schedule, their class and their time. Hundreds of courses are offered days, evenings, weekends and online to accommodate busy schedules. The 16-week courses begin Monday, Aug. 22. On Tuesday, Sept. 6, 14-week courses begin. The 12-week courses begin Friday, Sept. 16. All of these courses — 16-week, 14-week, and 12-week – end on Thursday, Dec. 8, and offer the same course material with the same credit hours. The shorter the number of weeks, the longer the class period. PSC also offers two different eight-week course sessions. First eight-week courses start Monday, Aug. 22, and end Friday, Oct. 14. Second eight-week courses start Monday, Oct. 17, and end on Thursday, Dec. 8. The eight-week courses typically offer fewer credit hours. Many of the college certificate programs offer eight-week courses, allowing students to fit two courses in a semester and to make progress towards that certificate. Both credit and non-credit courses are listed in the fall class schedule, available on the PSC main campus, located at 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. The schedule also is available at area public libraries and online at prairiestate.edu. To register for credit courses, new students must complete an enrollment application in person at the college or online. Current students can register for credit courses in person or online at prairiestate.edu/start. Through Friday, Aug. 12, Enrollment Services is open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the college is closed on Fridays. Beginning Monday, Aug. 15, Enrollment Services will resume regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday. The college also will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Students can register for non-credit courses online or in person. To register online via Instant Enrollment, go to prairiestate.edu and select “How to Register for Non-Credit Courses” from the A-Z Index. Another option is to complete the registration form available online at prairiestate.edu/noncredit or in the back of the printed course schedule. Students also can register for non-credit courses in person at the Matteson Area Center (MAC), located at 4821 Southwick Drive in Matteson, or in the Enrollment Services Office on the PSC main campus. Through Friday Aug. 12, the MAC is open from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Beginning Monday, Aug. 15, the MAC will resume regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday. For more information about registering for courses, visit prairiestate.edu or call 708-709-3500.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 State Street, South Holland
Welding Lab Open Houses – June 7 & 9
SSC is hosting Open Houses for their Welding Lab on Tuesday, June 7 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., and Thursday, June 9 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., both in Room L-275 on their Main Campus in South Holland. The public is invited to join SSC and learn more about exciting welding opportunities in careers such as: safety, engineering, robotics, inspections, maintenance, sales, marketing, education, consulting, testing, and of course, welding itself. According to recent reports, more than 200,000 jobs are expected to be available in welding over the next 10 years as the current workforce is approaching retirement and new industry is moving to the region. You can earn more than $50,000 to start and thousands more each year after. SSC trains welders to American Welding Society standards in our state-of-the-art welding lab, furnished with Lincoln Electric welders. Come and see the lab with eight welding stations and a welding simulator. College faculty and staff will be on hand to answer questions about welding classes and related programs. SSC offers mini, stackable welding certificates for SMAW (shielded metal arc welding), GMAW (gas metal arc welding), and GTAW (gas tungsten arc welding).Students can earn these smaller certificates while attaining our main welding certificate – Multi-process Welding. For more information, please email Nburrows@ssc.edu or call 708-596-2000, ext. 3258.
College for Kids – Begins Monday, June 13
SSC’s Continuing Education Department is offering courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will entertain and challenge children and young adults. The majority of the College for Kids classes scheduled for this summer will begin the week of June 13nd at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland and Oak Forest Center. In addition, SSC will offer a Jam Session Day Camp for $329, beginning on June 20, 2016. This four-week summer school program is less than $5 per hour for academics and fun enrichment programs three days a week. Math will consist of review and instruction of the basic arithmetic skills. In addition to Reading and Math, students will enjoy a variety of other stimulating activities, such as Spanish.
The following Learning Enrichment Classes will be offered for preschoolers and kindergartners at a cost of $49 each:
Jump Start on Reading
Reading Readiness
ABC’s and 123’s
Seuss and Mother Goose
Jump Start on Kindergarten
The following classes will be offered for elementary school kids for $69 each:
Well Written Essays
Study Skills
Fun with Phonics
Grammar No Problem
Reading, Accelerated or Refresher
Math Refresher
Pre-Algebra
Spanish
The following high school classes will be offered for $69 each:
Written Essays
Study Skills
Introduction to Algebra
Pre-Algebra/Geometry
Conversational Spanish
Students with classes totaling $100 or more may be eligible for the FACTS deferred tuition payment plan. For more information about FACTS please contact the Business and Accounting Services Office at 708-596-2000 ext. 5720. Access class schedule online from www.ssc.edu to search the Summer Continuing Education Schedule, or call 708-596-2000, ext. 2231.
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.
Green Events
Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Park Forest
Nature Education Programs at Thorn Creek Nature Center
Calling all schools, home school groups, day cares, preschools, youth, adult and family groups! Nature Education Programs are offered at Thorn Creek Nature Center throughout the year where your group can discover the plants and animals of Thorn Creek Woods. These Nature Education Programs are sponsored by the Thorn Creek Audubon Society. The Audubon Society and the Thorn Creek Nature Center announce their new Partnership for Programming to further the Society’s environmental education mission and give valuable assistance to Thorn Creek Nature Center in providing nature programming for groups of area children and adults. Some of the nature education programs offered this year include Birding by Sight and Sound, Creek Walk (the world of aquatic insects and metamorphosis), Trees Big and Small (identification by leaves and bark), Insects (what makes an insect unique), the Web of Life (interdependence of producers, consumers, predators and decomposers), Soils Hike (how soil fuels and supports life), and Night Hikes. On the Fall Color Hike learn why leaves change colors and what trees do to prepare for the long months of winter. Discover clues to wild animals’ identities and behavior by trails and trails in Wild Animal Tracks. Make your own track replica. On Vixen’s Trek you are the fox following your daily routines on Thorn Creek trails. Or visit the Historic Farm in the woods to explore an early 1900’s woodland farm. Groups can also arrange for a naturalist to come to your location for programs such as Wild Animal Tracks, Web of Life, Woodland Wildflowers, Soils, History of Thorn Creek Woods, and the like. The new partnership has already collaborated in sponsoring three programs: the Learn 70 Birds by Spring class, which runs from January through March; the Great Backyard Bird Count Open House that was held in February; and the Build a Gourd Birdhouse sessions to be held in March. For information about Thorn Creek Audubon Society membership, events and projects: Thorn Creek Audubon Society, P. O. Box 895, Park Forest, Il 60466, or www.thorncreekaudubonsociety.org.
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Wednesday Morning Walkers
Discover the wonders of spring in a weekly morning walk. Wednesday Morning Walkers meet every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and is free for ages 13 years to adult. Walkers new to the program must register two days before they first hike. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6360.
Thorn Creek Chamber Players Performance – Registration Required by Wednesday, June 8
As spring turns to summer come celebrate the summer woods with the Thorn Creek Chamber Players on Friday, June 10 at 7 p.m. Cellist Ingrid Krizan, bassist Julian Pat Romane and the Thorn Creek Chamber Players perform in the warm wooded acoustics of our 1860’s nature center building. The Chamber Players will offer us the cooling, shaded waters of Brahms’s and Dvorak’s string writing. Bask in the lush harmonies, dance with the vigorous rhythms, and revel in the lush textures of early summer! All proceeds will directly benefit Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve and Nature Center. Seating is limited and registration is required by Wednesday, June 8. Cost is $10 per person. Program is for those older than 12 years. For more information or to register, call 708-747-6320 or email thorn_creek@att.net, www.tcwoods.org.
Stories of Our Nature Center Building with Richard Stuenkel – Sunday, June 12
Thorn Creek Nature Center is housed in an historic building, originally Immanuel Lutheran Church of Matteson, Illinois built in 1862. A gothic frame country church, its notable architectural features include curved ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling and a raised pulpit. On Sunday, June 12 at 1 p.m. join us for Stories of our Nature Center Building with Richard Stuenkel. Special guest speaker Richard Stuenkel will share his knowledge and recollections of the Church, and tell stories of the local communities and woodland as they were when he was growing up in the area. Those attending are invited to come with questions. Then join our naturalist on a hike in the woods at 3 p.m. Mr. Stuenkel still farms on the land originally owned by his grandfather, and lives in the 130 year-old farmhouse in Monee. Stuenkel Road which runs past Governors State University is named for the train stop Stuenkel’s Crossing, run by one of Richard’s family members. After World War II, he worked for a company that supplied heavy equipment used to build Park Forest. This presentation is sponsored by the Jim Marzuki Memorial Fund, established by Friends of Thorn Creek Woods to enhance our public programming. The program is free; call or email to register. Refreshments will be provided. For more information or to register for programs, all 708-747-6320, email thorn_creek@att.net, visit www.tcwoods.org or stop in the nature center between noon and 4 p.m. on Friday or Sunday. Please call before you plan to visit the nature center.
Prairie Sampler and Trail Workdays — Registration Required by Saturday, June 18
Get down and dirty and help Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension Service care for our Prairie Sampler. Located in front of the Nature Center, the Prairie Sampler and a butterfly garden need your help with weeding, pulling tall goldenrod, trimming out woody plants and caring for newly acquired plants. Prairie Sampler Workday will be Monday June 20 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Registration is required by Saturday, June 18. Bring your own gloves, hand clippers, kneelers if you like. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots. Refreshments will be provided. The Workday is for ages 18 and older. The Prairie Sampler was created in the 1970’s with transplanted native prairie plants and large soil plugs from local prairies before they were destroyed by development. The late Jim Marzuki nurtured the prairie in the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s. Over the last two years, naturalist April Richards, Master Gardeners and volunteers have again been caring for the prairie, weeding, clearing out woody vegetation and planting and caring for new plants. They have also been identifying, and labeling the native species, and are impressed with the number of native plants that are flourishing. Today the Thorn Creek Prairie Sampler is a lush, rich prairie community. Join the Thorn Creek Trail Work crew in building and repairing boardwalks and maintaining the 3.5 miles of trails through the preserve. Trail Workday is for ages 15 through adult. Bring a lunch and gloves and dress for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes or boots. Refreshments will be provided. Outdoor work is on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. For additional information or to register, call 708-747-6320, email thorn_creek@att.net or visit www.tcwoods.org.
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
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
Annual Chat-n-Chew Bazaar: A Community Craft and Health Fair – Saturday, June 11
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).
Center for Multicultural Communities (CMC) at Prairie State College, 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
‘Enhancing Community and Police Relations’ – Monday, June 6
CMC will present ‘Enhancing Community and Police Relations’ program on Monday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Prairie State College Auditorium in Chicago Heights. Participants will hear expert presenters provide preventative life-saving guidelines for improving community and police relations in our region. Speakers: Dean Felix Simpkins & Colleagues. For additional information, contact Eugene Dumas, Executive Director of CMC at 708-709-3797 or email mcdirect@gmail.com.
Park Forest Police Department, 200 Lakewood Boulevard
Summer Youth Program – Begins Monday, June 13
The Park Forest Police Department’s summer youth program is registering now. The Park Forest Police Department’s Police Athletic Activities Center (P.A.A.C.) is an athletic-based summer youth program for ages 10 to 15, being held this year June 13 to July 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday evenings at Rich East High School. The program teaches sportsmanship, leadership, and character development through sports activities. For questions, contact Adina McCollough at amccollough@vopf.com or call 708-748-2005. Applications are available through June 3 and can be picked up at the Park Forest Police Department.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Park Forest Aqua Center Open — Passes Now on Sale
Since 1952, the Park Forest Aqua Center, 30 North Orchard Street, has been one of Chicagoland’s premier outdoor pool experiences. The Park Forest Aqua Center is three pools in one, providing a quality summer experience for whatever your age:
Toddlers enjoy a beach pool, plenty of sand area, and superb instructors who have taught thousands the techniques of swimming.
Kids enjoy a 160-foot water slide, two drop slides, and a 15-foot-high aquatic climbing wall!
East Pool Lap Swim – great for lap or casual swimming. Adults love it!
At the Park Forest Aqua Center, you feel the comfort and community of home and the fun, relaxation, and excitement of vacation all at the same time! Ask about how to become a member today! Learn more about the Park Forest Aqua Center!
Relay For Life of the Far South Suburbs, Saturday, June 11
Relay For Life is the signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society celebrating cancer survivors, remembering those lost, and bringing the community together to fight back against the disease. Teams of families, friends and coworkers raise awareness and funds to support cancer prevention programs, groundbreaking cancer research and free services to patients right here in our community. Join fun activities for all ages, Saturday, June 11, from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Rich South High School, 5000 Sauk Trail, in Richton Park. For more information, or to register, call 708-633-7771.
Park Forest Farmers’ Market – Through October 29
Since 1974, the Park Forest Farmers’ Market has been connecting area residents with local farmers, food vendors and businesses. The Market hosts 22 full spaces with a variety of fresh flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery goods, herbs and dairy products. Local businesses are also on hand at the Market selling artwork, garden ornaments, jewelry and more. The Park Forest Farmers’ Market accepts EBT/Link, WIC, and Senior Nutrition Coupons. The Market is open Saturdays, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. through October, for shopping, food, and entertainment. Learn more about the Park Forest Farmer’s Market at: http://www.villageofparkforest.com/Index.aspx?NID=98.