Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—July 3, 2016. Independence Day in Park Forest has been one of the most popular community celebrations for years. This year’s fun begins on July 4 at 6 p.m. with the annual parade. The parade begins at the corner of Main Street and Orchard Drive and proceeds north to Westwood Drive, then continues westbound on Westwood Drive to Lakewood Boulevard, making its final turn at Lakewood Boulevard and ending just past Central Park. Following the parade, a LIVE concert by BBI takes place DownTown from 7p.m. to 9:15 p.m. Then enjoy a 15-minute fireworks display, viewable from Central Park and the Village Green DownTown, beginning at dusk.
The 11th Annual Interfaith Day of Prayer to Heal and Renew the Environment will be held on Sunday, July 10 at the Cal-Sag Canal Waterfall in Blue Island. With daily reports of lead in our drinking water, droughts, horrific flooding, wild forest fires, and oil spills into our streams and oceans, we are reminded of the importance of water, and our responsibility as stewards of the earth to maintain a clean and healthy planet. You can find additional information about the Interfaith Day of Prayer in the ‘Green Events’ section.
Have a very happy and safe July 4th holiday.
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 Hall Closure – Monday, July 4
Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Monday, July 4 in observance of the July 4th holiday.
Village Board Meeting – Saturday, July 9
The Village of Park Forest is scheduled to hold a Saturday Morning Rules Meeting July 9 at 10 a.m. at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend.
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 Commissions are currently scheduled to meet the week of July 3:
Tuesday, July 3 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
Thursday, July 7 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
Thursday, July 7 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission
The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.
Arts & Entertainment
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/.
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-Chicago Heights School District 162
6th Annual Teeing offFORE Education Golf Outing – Tickets Now on Sale
Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 will hold its 6th Annual Teeing off FORE Education golf outing on Monday, July 11, at Lincolnshire Country Club, 390 East Ridge Road, Crete. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Lunch will be available at the turn and dinner will follow golf. The outing will feature a putting contest, fun activities at the holes and prizes. The cost for individual golf is $100; $150 for individual golf and dinner; and $500 for a foursome (includes dinner). The proceeds from the District’s golf outings benefit the District’s arts programs, field trips, technology, enrichment programs, and the District-wide annual Spring Musical. Questions regarding registration, sponsorships or donations should be directed to Sandi Gordon, 708-668-9425.
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
Library Closure – Monday, July 4
The Park Forest Public Library will be closed on Monday, July 4 in observance of the July 4th holiday.
The following events are scheduled for the week of July 3:
Tuesday, July 5 at 11 a.m. – Olympic Circle — We’re Racing Through Time! Join us each week as we learn about the USA Olympics, its history, the different athletes, sports and more. Ages: 12 and under. Materials Provided. While Supplies last.
Tuesday, July 5 at 2 p.m. – Art Studio — It’s time to create! Materials will be provided. Ages 12 and under.
Tuesday, July 5 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, July 5 at 7 p.m. – PajamaRama — 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.
Tuesday, July 5 at 7:30 p.m. — Ravinia Concert- Emerson String Quartet — Come to the Info Zone desk to inquire about tickets to today’s Ravinia show taking place at the Martin Theatre. First come, first serve basis. Ravinia is located in Highland Park, IL
Wednesday, July 6 at 11 a.m. – Movement and Me — On Your Mark, Get Set, Move! to the Rhythm of storytelling. This story time is designed to engage children through movement, music, stories and more. Open to children ages 1 month to 12 years old.
Wednesday, July 6 at 2 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, July 6 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, July 6 at 4 p.m. – “Sports Weekly” Picks — Create, learn, and engage with fun activities all with a creative, sports twist!
Wednesday, July 6 at 7:30 p.m. — Ravinia Concert- Miriam Fried and Friends — Come to the Info Zone desk to inquire about tickets to today’s Ravinia show taking place at the Martin Theatre. First come, first serve basis. Ravinia is located in Highland Park, IL
Thursday, July 7 at 11 a.m. – Creative Play with Art — Bring your imagination and creativity to bring out your inner Picasso. Some projects may involve paint. Ages 12 and under.
Thursday, July 7 at 2 p.m. – Comic Creations — Be inspired to become a graphic novelist/comic creator! Each week explore ways to create comic strips, books, graphic and more. Open to ages 7-12yrs old.
Thursday, July 7 at 4 p.m. – 2000’s Teen Movie Marathon — Join us for a line-up of our favorite sport films from the 2000’s.
Friday, July 8 at 10 a.m. — Color Me Calm: Adult Coloring Circle — Drop in and enjoy the hottest coloring trend. All materials are provided.
Friday, July 8 at 10:30 a.m. – Butterfly Club — The Butterfly Club will track Monarch Butterflies in our backyard! We will collect and raise caterpillars, so we may release butterflies in the library gardens! Registration is Required. Children under 6 must have a chaperone. Shoes, socks, water bottle, and sunscreen are recommended.
Friday, July 8 at 11 a.m. — DIY Game Inventor! — Drop in and create your own game! Use provided materials to create your own board or card games, including rules, number of players, and how to win the game. Play-Test the games to see if they work. Materials provided, while supplies last. Ages: 12 and Under.
Friday, July 8 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, July 9 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.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
‘Aspects of Realism’ – Through July 14
PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery is currently exhibiting ‘Aspects of Realism’ through July 14. The exhibit features works by Jacqueline Moses, Winifred Godfrey, Roland Kulla, Armin Mersmann, and Victoria Fuller. The Gallery will host an Artist’s Reception on July 14th from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. The Christopher Art Gallery Regular Hours: are Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. or by appointment. For additional information, or to schedule an appointment, call 708-709-3636 or visit www.prairiestate.edu.
Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest
Trip to Arlington Park Racetrack – Reservations Now Being Taken
The Senior Center’s July Trip will be to Arlington Park Racetrack on Thursday, July 14. You will enjoy a beautiful day at Arlington including admission to the park, daily racing guides, a two hour buffet and three hours of soft drinks all in the air-conditioned International Room. The trip leaves from the Rich Township Senior Center at 1 a.m. and return at approximately 7 p.m. The cost of the trip is $72. Reservations are now being taken by phone only by calling 708-748-5454. Please remember that Arlington enforces a strict dress code, which does not allow shorts or tennis shoes.
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.
August Monthly Trip to Isle of Capri – Reservations Now Being Taken
The August Monthly Trip will be to the Isle of Capri on August 21 through 23. We will leave at 1 p.m. from the Rich Township Senor Center on Sunday, August 21 and return at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 23. The price for a single room is $210, a double is $145 and a triple is $135. The trip includes $15 Isle Play on Sunday and Monday, 2 breakfast buffets at the Isle and $5 free play and 1 lunch buffet at the ‘new’ Rhythm City Casino on Tuesday, Reservations are now being taken by phone by calling 708-748-5454.
Roosevelt University, 430 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
Annual Golf Outing – Registration Now in Progress
Golfers of all skill levels are invited to show what they can do on the links at Roosevelt University’s 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Outing being held August 1 at the Schaumburg Golf Club & Academy, 401 N. Roselle Road in Schaumburg. The outing begins with registration and buffet lunch at 11 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Cocktails, a delicious dinner and awards are at 5:45 p.m. There are a number of sponsorship opportunities still available, including event sponsor, hole sponsors, prize sponsors as well as foursomes and program book ads. For information about becoming a sponsor, contact Sara Lee Powell at 312-341-2309 or spowell08@roosevelt.edu. For golf outing information, contact Juliana Nelligan at 312-341-2252 or jnelligan@roosevelt.edu. To register for the Roosevelt Scholarship Golf Outing, please visit www.roosevelt.edu/golf.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 State Street, South Holland
PAC Rats Theatre Company Open Auditions – Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 14
The PAC Rats Theatre Company of SSC will hold open auditions for Michael Parker’s American farce, The Amorous Ambassador. The auditions will take place on July 13 and 14, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the main campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL. When “Hormone” Harry Douglas, the new American Ambassador to Great Britain, tells his family he is going to Scotland to play golf, his wife and daughter announce weekend plans of their own. Their newly hired butler, Perkins, watches stoically as each leaves the Embassy and secretly returns for a romantic rendezvous in the empty house. Harry’s secretary and Marine Corps Embassy Security then arrive in the wake of a bomb threat and the embassy is sealed off, with hilarious results. Even the imperturbable Perkins is drawn into the shenanigans. Director Angela Martin of Midlothian, will cast 8 ensemble actors of all colors and sizes, ranging in age from 18 to 70 plus. Martin is planning evening rehearsals. Performances are scheduled for September 16, 17, 23, 24 and 25, 2016. Auditions are open to all community members as well as SSC students. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes, which will be available at the time of auditions. Copies of the script are on reserve in the SSC library. Everyone is welcome to attend both auditions. Be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule. In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also looking for volunteers who want to try their hands backstage. For character descriptions, rehearsal schedule and more information, visit the Kindig Performing Arts Center’s website at http://learn.ssc.edu/theatre/ or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu.
Join SSC College Symphony Orchestra – Rehearsals Begin August 22
The Music Department of SSC is excited to announce that the SSC String Orchestra is expanding to a full symphonic orchestra, beginning in August, 2016. SSC Director of Instrumental Music, Rob Calhoon, has long felt the need for a community symphony in our area. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:50 p.m. beginning August 22 at South Suburban College. Any instrumentalists who would like more information about the South Suburban Community Symphony Orchestra, or who would like to schedule an audition should call Rob Calhoon at 708-596-2000, ext. 2299, or email him at rcalhoon@ssc.edu.
Tall Grass Art Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Neutral Ground: Somewhere Between Black and White’ – Through July 23
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 run through July 23. The exhibit is 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
‘Insider Art’ Exhibit – Through July 23
USG’s current exhibit ‘Insider Art’ is curated by Claudia Craemer, and highlights work from many of our Union Street Gallery affiliated artists. The exhibit will run through July 23 and is free and open to the public. Exhibiting artists include: Marjorie Anderson, Richard Benoit, Claudia Craemer, Maureen Cribbs, Suzanne Dreher, Pam Eberlin, Barbara Edwards, Anitra Frazier, Dorita Fuller, Irene Ganas, Margi Hafer, Linda Lane Haynes, Ron Karlic, Aline Keith, Jean Lewis, Joe McIlhany, Harriett Miller, Alexis Moulds, Renee Klyczek Nordstrom, Ginny Raftery, Pamela Rodey, Leon Sarantos, Richard Schmidt, Jean Schuster, Mary Ann Trzyna, and Marikay Peter Witlock. For additional information, call 708-754-2601or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
University of Chicago, 5801 S Ellis Avenue, Chicago
‘Resonant Objects’ – Opens Friday, July 8
A new UChicago exhibition showcases the work of three Chicago-based artists and their shared interest in the social and spatial conditions of their surroundings. ‘Resonant Objects,’ on view from July 8 to Aug. 28 at the Logan Center Gallery and the Arts Incubator, features the work of Greg Bray, Aquil Charlton and Nazafarin Lotfi, who participated in the University of Chicago’s Arts + Public Life and Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture Artists-in-Residence Program. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Over the course of ten months, Bray, Charlton and Lotfi worked in studios at the Arts Incubator, generating research, artworks and happenings that fostered interactive relationships with diverse publics and spaces on Chicago’s South Side. Working across painting and sculpture, Bray blends collage and assemblage with an exploration of random structures. For ‘Resonant Objects,’ Bray presents abstract sculptures informed by his research into the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear purge that occurred in Eastern Japan in 2011. Fashioned from discarded chairs, Bray’s works are uncanny contortions of wood, plastic, metal and electrical cords. At once acquiring anthropomorphic guises and suggesting new forms, Bray’s sculptures speak to humanity’s resilience and capacity to create a new following moments of rupture. As the resident musician in this year’s cohort, Charlton’s work focuses on his music education, sound design and songwriting practices, as well as his research into the life and work of influential American singer/songwriter Eugene “Gene” McDaniels. McDaniel’s politically motivated recordings garnered success in the late 1960s and in recent times various hip hop producers including Prince Paul and Q-Tip of Native Tongues have sampled his work. Following this lineage, Charlton’s presentation infuses music creation with a deep social consciousness and pedagogical intent. Culling elements from McDaniel’s music and lyrics, as well as from his own repertoire, Charlton presents a series of sound installations that interpolate the unique acoustic and spatial qualities of the presenting galleries. Also on view is Charlton’s Mobile Music Box, an interactive vehicle that features instructions and recycled materials for making musical instruments. Lotfi’s sculpture- and performance-based practice explores the relationship between object, body and space. Lotfi engages in daily rituals of walking between her home and several spaces across Chicago’s Hyde Park and Washington Park neighborhoods, accompanied by large-scale, boulder-like sculptures crafted from papier-mâché. These mundane experiences—often reserved solely for the artist and without a prescribed audience—are recorded in physical impressions on the object’s delicate surfaces as they are rolled on the ground, as well as through the artist’s own body as she negotiates holding and carrying them aloft. For the exhibition, Lotfi presents a series of sculptures with distressed and painted surfaces alongside video and photographs documenting her actions in the public sphere. For additional information, call 773-702-8360 or visit www.uchicago.edu.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
2016 Main Street Nights – Wednesday, July 13
Grab a blanket and position yourself in the Park Forest DownTown Village Green (Cunningham and Main Streets) for some free nights of entertainment, rain or shine. Vendors on hand selling food and drinks. The evening starts at 6:30 p.m. with an opening act followed by the showcased entertainment. In case of rain, performances will be oved to Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street. For weather related changes or cancellations, please call 708-283-5647. For general inquiries, call 708-748-2005.
July 13th – Touch a Truck
Children love to see and sit in many of the Village’s neat vehicles from the Police, Fire and Water Departments.
Spotlight on Park Forest – 6:30 p.m.
A sampling of entertainment options throughout the Village and beyond.
Southland Jazz Ensemble with Ava Logan and Saalik Ziyad– 7:15 p.m.
SJE, Ava Logan and Saalik Ziyad bring the big band era music to live featuring the Southland’s finest musicians.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Park Forest – Chicago Heights School District 16
Kindergarten and 6th Grade Registration – Begin Tuesday, July 12
Park Forest – Chicago Heights School District 163 has announced registration for kindergarten and 6th grade returning students for the 2017-17 school year. Details are as follows:
What: Kindergarten & 6th Grade Returning Student Walk-In Registration
Where: 21st Century Media Center
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays starting: July 12th – August 9th, 2016
Tuesdays – 9:00 am -12:00 pm
Wednesdays – 5:00 pm -7:00 pm
Thursdays – 1:00 pm -4:00 pm
Kindergarten and 6th grade returning students MUST bring their completed physical to the District office during WALK-IN registration days to receive access to online registration
Kindergarten & 6th Grade Students will receive username and passwords upon approval of student physical and immunizations per District Nurse.
• Once approved, you can register online using your family username and password.
Parent/Guardian Name:
Address:
Additional Registration Information
Please keep this letter; it will serve as required proof of residency for returning students.
• If you do not have this letter you will need to provide 2 (two) proofs of residency at time of registration. (Address must match address in Skyward system).
• If you complete registration by August 9th 2016, you will receive a $10 discount. Fees may be paid with cash, money order/cashier’s check, credit/debit, (Visa, Master Card, and Discover).
(Personal Checks Are Not Accepted)
For questions or technical assistance, please contact the registration/tech support help line at 708-668-9468.
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
2016 Fall Registration – Now in Progress
Open Registration for the Fall 2016 Semester at SSC is in progress. Fall classes begin Monday, August 22nd at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. SSC will also host a College-Wide Open House on Thursday, August 4th from 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. featuring tours, demonstrations, and information about the college’s wide range of options, programs and student services. Prospective students 18 and over will be entered in an Open House Raffle for:
1st Prize: IPad Air2
2nd Prize: $200 Visa Gift Card
3rd Prize: $100 Visa Gift Card.
SSC is now offering a Free Class to first time credit students who reside within South Suburban College District 510, qualify for our Lake County, IN or Chicago regional rates or work for an employer within South Suburban College District 510. The Free Class applies to tuition only, and does not apply to courses of more than 5 credit hours. Individuals must not be receiving any state or federal financial aid or employer subsidies. More information is available at www.ssc.edu/freeclass. Students who wish to use financial aid as payment for fall classes must have an official high school or GED transcript on file. Official transcripts must have a school seal and graduation date on them. Transcripts can be hand-delivered to the Admissions Office or mailed to: Office of Admissions (15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL 60473). If a transcript is hand-delivered it must be in the original sealed, unopened envelope. Prospective students should complete the Online Application Form at www.ssc.edu to begin the enrollment process. New students will receive an SSC email account and a “My SSC” Username & Password via email which will allow access to the online schedule and class registration. The My SSC Portal also allows students 24-hour access during college closed periods. The complete upcoming open house schedule at SSC is as follows:
Court Reporting Program Open House, Thursday, July 21, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center Room 5190, LCooke@ssc.edu
Paralegal Open House, Wednesday, July 27, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center Room 5190, Jcieslik@ssc.edu
SSC College-Wide Open House, Thursday, August 4th, 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Main Campus, edu
Contact the Office of Admissions at 708-210-5718 for enrollment information. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program – Classes begin July 25
SSC be offering a Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program this summer at their Oak Forest Campus. Orientation and Assessment Testing will be June 28-30 at the Oak Forest Center, with the program set to begin on July 25, 2016. The Highway Construction Careers Training Program has been implemented to increase the number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals working on IDOT highway construction projects. The training consists of an intensive 12-week program to learn the skills necessary for acceptance into the highway construction trades and gives the opportunity for a career with high wage potential.
Career Opportunities Include:
Cement Mason
Electrician
Pipefitter
Carpenter
Laborer
Equipment Operator
Requirements:
Valid driver’s license
18 years or older
High School diploma/GED
Interest working in the Construction Trades
Construction will always be needed for new buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. Some of the more skilled construction careers such as engineer require higher education while others such as cement masonry can be learned as an on-the-job apprentice. For more information, please visit our website at www.ssc.edu/hcctp, or call 708-225-6042, or email hcctp@ssc.edu. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue in Oak Forest.
Court Reporting Open House – Thursday, July 21
SSC is hosting a Court Reporting Open House on Thursday, July 21, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., in Oak Forest Center Room 5190. The Open House will showcase this profession which offers a wide-open job market and excellent income potential. Court reporting is an interesting, challenging career which offers a flexible work schedule, and excellent income potential ($64,672 average yearly income). Broadcast captioners can earn $70,000+ and may work out of their homes. The use of sophisticated computer equipment has broadened the nature of the profession. Our program focuses on the theory behind it all, with an emphasis on Judicial Reporting. There is a severe shortage of reporters in the Chicago area. The Court Reporting Open House is the perfect opportunity to get an overview of SSC’s Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology program, certified by the National Court Reporters Association. You will be able to talk with a certified court reporter and see a demonstration of real-time writing. Refreshments will be served. For more information call 708-596-2000, ext. 3216 or email LCooke@ssc.edu The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.
Paralegal Open House – Wednesday, July 27
SSC will be hosting an Open House for its Paralegal Program on Wednesday, July 27, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center Room 5190. Attendees will learn about an exciting career that is expected to grow 18% through 2020 according to the US Department of Labor. Information will be provided about SSC’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant curriculum, including the Associate Degree and certificate programs. In addition, former students from the program, working as paralegals, will be present to answer questions. The curriculum prepares students to work in a variety of legal environments including civil and criminal litigation, insurance, banking, public and governmental agencies, law offices and corporate legal departments. Emphasis is placed on the development of core skills in legal research and writing techniques including compilation and analysis of data, understanding legal vocabulary, law office technology, and preparation of legal documents. SSC has the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal program in the south suburban Chicago region, giving graduates a huge advantage when entering the workforce. The college also requires that all of the instructors in the program are lawyers or judges to ensure the quality of instruction. While the majority of the paralegal classes are offered at SSC’s Oak Forest Center (conveniently located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue), some classes are offered online. For more information, please contact Mr. Jason Cieslik at 708-596-2000, ext. 2579 or email JCieslik@ssc.edu.
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
Southeast Environmental Task Force
11th Annual Interfaith Day of Prayer to Heal and Renew the Environment on Sunday, July 10
The 11th Annual Interfaith Day of Prayer to Heal and Renew the Environment will be held on Sunday, July 10 at 3 p.m. at the Cal-Sag Canal Waterfall, 2250 Fulton Street in Blue Island. With daily reports of lead in our drinking water, droughts, horrific flooding, wild forest fires, and oil spills into our streams and oceans, we are reminded of the importance of water, and our responsibility as stewards of the earth to maintain a clean and healthy planet. During the event, we will acknowledge how precious our water is, and to pray for clean air, water, and the earth. We will also have a special remembrance of our dear friend, Rev. Rod Reinhart. There will be music, drumming and refreshments. The event is free and open to the public. Please join us at this lovely spot along the river to meet friends and pray for our environment. The Cal-Sag Waterfall is located 4 blocks east of Western Avenue; 2 blocks south of Vermont Street (Chatham & Fulton Streets) — look for signs. For additional information, call Tom Shepherd at 773-370-3305.
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.
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.
Medical Cannabis Education Association (MCEA) Meeting – Sunday, July 3
The MCEA will meet at UUCC on Sunday, July 3 at noon. The speaker, Kiana Hughes of Illinois Women in Cannabis will speak on ‘Changing the Conversation About Cannabis.’ For additional information, call 708-481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.
This & That
St. Irenaeus Church, 78 Cherry Street, Park Forest
A Faith Response to Homicide: Vigil for Peace – Wednesday, July 6
The distant echo of gun fire has roared its thunderous blast in our community. The weeping of Rachel for her children is now our weeping. As an expression of solidarity and peace-seeking, the faith communities of Park Forest are gathering to pray for peace in our village, our nation and our world. The event will take place at St. Irenaeus Church on Wednesday, July 5, at 7 p.m. for a vigil, and as an ongoing commitment, the first Wednesday of each month to join our hearts, our hands, and our voices for peace. See you there!
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy – Applications Accepted Through July 31
The Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy is an invaluable nine-month experience that allows you to meet local leaders, hear their stories, and take part in informative sessions on the realities and challenges of decision-makers and the organizations they lead. Learn more about your community, build your network, and enhance your leadership skills by taking part in a program that last year’s participants unanimously voted “a tremendous value.” As part of the Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy, you’ll meet with a host of individuals including Park Forest Mayor John Ostenburg, Park Forest Village Manager Tom Mick, Prairie State College President Dr. Terri Winfree, leadership with the Park Forest Police Department, and a host of other area leaders. Applications for the upcoming Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy are being accepted now through July 31. To apply, or to learn more, click on this link. More on the Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy
6th Annual Midsummer Madness – Registration Now in Progress
On Wednesday, July 20, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Village of Park Forest’s Economic Development and Planning Department will hold the 6th Annual Midsummer Madness. Stroll through Park Forest’s DownTown business district and increase your chances at winning more than 20 prizes. All the while, you’ll discover many Park Forest businesses you may not have been familiar with previously. Two air-conditioned buses will be providing courtesy transportation up and down Main Street to help participants reach all businesses on the event map. This event is free and open to all. For questions, contact Monica DeLord at 708-283-5624 or email mdelord@vopf.com. Register to participate now!
Park Forest Aqua Center Open — Now Open
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!
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.
Park Forest Fire Department, 156 Indianwood Boulevard
Raffle for Chicago Cubs Tickets – Now on Sale
The Park Forest Fire Department is raffling off four tickets to the Cubs vs. Mariners game on Sunday, July 31 at 1:20 p.m. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20 and are available for purchase at the Fire Department during normal business hours (Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Tickets will be on sale until 4 p.m. on Friday, July 22 when the winner will be drawn. Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to Park Forest Police Officer Tim Jones and his family to support his recovery from injuries sustained in a shooting incident in March. For additional information, please contact the Fire Department at 708-748-5605.