Wishing all our readers a very Happy Thanksgiving holiday.
Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF) — On Thursday we’ll be celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday. For many of us, the meaning of Thanksgiving usually includes feasting, four-day weekends, football games, floats, family reunions, or a forerunner to Christmas festivities. The “first Thanksgiving,” however, was neither a feast nor a holiday, but a simple gathering. Following the Mayflower’s arrival at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620, the Pilgrims suffered the loss of 46 of their original 102 colonists. With the help of 91 Indians, the remaining Pilgrims survived the bitter winter and yielded a bountiful harvest in 1621. In celebration, a traditional English harvest festival, lasting three days brought the Pilgrims and natives to unite in a “thanksgiving” observance. Enjoy your holiday and pledge to do something this holiday season for those less fortunate.
The Park Forest Police Department has announced plans to award a scholarship to an area teen in the name of Officer Timothy Jones. The Officer Timothy Jones Scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior residing in Park Forest with a grade point average of at least 2.75 who exhibits strong character. The recipient must also declare criminal justice as their college major and be enrolled in courses in the 2017-18 school year at an accredited college or university. Applications must be submitted by December 23. Additional information about the scholarship can be round in the ‘Educational Lectures & Opportunities’ section.
The Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus is currently offering flu and pneumonia shots. Ensure that your holidays will be healthy by getting your shots today. Details can be found in the ‘Healthy Living’ section.
Don’t forget to check the ‘Holiday Events & Activities’ section below for information on events around town where to can find unique holiday gifts as well as events that will be sure to get you in a festive mood. And if your church, club or organization is holding a special holiday event, please pass along the information to me at RJPiserLPH@aol.com so we can help spread the word!
If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in the community that you would like published, please send an e-mail to RJPiserLPH@aol.com with the details no later than 5 p.m. on Friday. Thank you.
Village of Park Forest
Village Board Meeting – Monday, November 21
The Village of Park Forest Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, November 21 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend. Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers).
To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site here and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.
Final Street Sweeping in Park Forest – Begins Monday, November 21
Street sweeping in Park Forest begins Monday, November 21, and lasts approximately 10 days. The street sweeper normally begins in the north part of Park Forest and continues south. The number of streets cleaned each day depends on the amount of leaves and/or debris needing removal as well as contractor work force that day and weather conditions. Residents are asked to remove their cars from the streets during the week of street sweeping in order for the most effective cleaning of the streets to take place. Residents are also reminded that raking or blowing leaves, grass, or debris into the street is strictly prohibited. Leaves clog Village storm sewers resulting in flooded streets. Fines will be issued for any individual witnessed raking or blowing leaves, grass, or debris into the street. Click for more on street sweeping in Park Forest
Village Hall Closure – Thursday & Friday, November 24 & 25
Park Forest Village Hall will be closed on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25 in honor of the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Arts & Entertainment
Calumet Heritage Partnership, Chicago
‘Calumet’s Industrial Heritage: Works by Kathy Los-Rathburn and Matthew Kaplan,’ – Through December 18
The Calumet Heritage Partnership will continue its 2016 Calumet Heritage Event Series with an encore show at South Shore Arts’ Crown Point Gallery featuring two local artists who capture the complex beauty and nature of the region’s industrial landscape in watercolor paintings and photographs. Called ‘Calumet’s Industrial Heritage: Works by Kathy Los-Rathburn and Matthew Kaplan,’ the exhibit is a collaboration between the Calumet Heritage Partnership and South Shore Arts and runs through December 18th. The Crown Point Gallery is located at 123 North Main Street in Crown Point, Indiana. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For additional information, call the Gallery at 219-663-0200.
DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton, Chicago
International Art Exhibition ‘On Space and Place’ – Through December 18
For the first time, viewers of the ART21 or “Art in the Twenty-First Century” television series will be able to see work by artists featured in the new season at the DePaul Art Museum on the Lincoln Park Campus of DePaul University. The exhibition will provide a multi-layered opportunity to learn about the artists on PBS stations, including Chicago’s WTTW-Channel 11, then experience the work in person. The DePaul Art Museum collaborated with the Peabody Award-winning documentary series ART21 to exhibit the 16 artists featured in the show’s eighth season. The exhibition, “On Space and Place: Contemporary Art from Chicago, Los Angeles, Mexico City and Vancouver,” curated by Widholm, will run through December 18 at the DePaul Art Museum. The featured artists, chosen by ART21 curator Wesley Miller, are grouped by their unique and revealing relationships to the places where they live, Chicago, Los Angeles, Mexico City and Vancouver, to showcase their cities as vibrant and diverse centers for art.
16 innovative artists from 4 dynamic cities:
Chicago artists: Nick Cave, Theaster Gates, Barbara Kasten, Chris Ware
Mexico City artists: Natalia Almada, Minerva Cuevas, Damián Ortega, Pedro Reyes
Los Angeles artists: Edgar Arceneaux, Liz Larner, Tala Madani, Diana Thater
Vancouver artists: Stan Douglas, Brian Jungen, Liz Magor, Jeff Wall
To view a trailer and learn more about ART21 and television dates visit http://www.pbs.org/art21/. 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/.
Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Masters of Soul – Tickets Now on Sale
Tickets are available for the performance of Master of Soul on Friday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. This is an encore performance for Masters of Soul with a holiday twist! Masters of Soul is a celebration of the Motown era featuring hits from the Temptations – Gladys Knight & the Pips – Marvin Gaye – Smokey Robinson & the Miracles – Four Tops – Diana Ross & Supremes and many more! Read more about Masters of Soul and view videos. Tickets are $30. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Freedom Hall at 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
‘Then Sings My Soul Christmas’ – Tickets Now on Sale
A performance of ‘Then Sings My Soul Christmas’ will take place at Freedom Hall on Tuesday, December 6 at 11 a.m. “Then Sings My Soul Christmas” is an inspiring concert of great American music that includes well-known Christmas tunes, popular Broadway favorites, beloved jazz standards, and stunning spirituals. Join award-winning mezzo-soprano Cheryse McLeod Lewis and (Name of the Choir joining Ms. Lewis on the show) as they share some of the best American music and most famous Christmas songs ever written. This entertaining show consistently delights audiences of all ages and is a concert that is sure to satisfy the soul and get you into the Christmas spirit! View a video of Cheryse McLeod Lewis. Tickets are $15. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Freedom Hall at 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago
Vonnegut’s Odyssey’ – Through May 6
The NVAM’s exhibit, ‘Vonnegut’s Odyssey,’ explores connections between the timeless and universal story of veterans’ return from combat through the artwork of World War II veteran and famed author Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Vonnegut’s selected artwork will be on view at NVAM through May 6, 2017. Exhibit curator and Iraq veteran Ash Kyrie notes, “The experience of returning home and processing the effects of war is something that is shared by all veterans, from the time of Homer’s The Odyssey, through Vonnegut’s experiences in Dresden, and continuing on today. Exhibiting the artwork of Vonnegut as an illustration of the post-war experience and as a creative processing tool for the artist highlights the process of the return and the complexity of the veteran experience.” Vonnegut enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 and was deployed to fight overseas in Europe during WWII. He was later captured at the Battle of the Bulge and served as a Prisoner of War until 1945 when he returned to the U.S. and was awarded the Purple Heart. These experiences largely shaped his creative endeavors including his well-known published literature and his body of artwork. From WWII through Vietnam and beyond, Vonnegut was an active voice in American culture and society—openly discussing war and its effects publicly. After establishing himself as an important American author during the late 1960’s with the publication of Slaughterhouse-Five (1969), Vonnegut later became recognized for his drawings that often accompanied his writings. These drawings vary in subject matter from his Purple Heart to his illustrious Asterisk. Building on these drawings, Vonnegut worked with printer Joe Petro III to create a prolific catalog of artwork. Presented together, these artworks reflect the connections between Vonnegut’s return home from World War II and Homer’s epic of Odysseus’s return home after the Trojan War. For additional information about the National Veterans Art Museum or the exhibit, visit www.nvam.org, or call 312-326-0270.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of November 20:
Monday, November 21 at 4 p.m. – Teen DIY Crafts — Winter is fast approaching! Celebrate the last weeks of fall with creative fall-themed DIYs!
Tuesday, November 22 at 2 p.m. – Art Studio — It’s time to create! Materials will be provided. For ages 12 and under.
Tuesday, November 22 at 7 p.m. — Pajama Story Time — Share special moments with your child through stories, crafts, and more. Wear your pj’s and wind down from a busy day. For ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, November 23 at 11 a.m. – Lap Sit Story Time — Babies and their parents or caregivers are invited to read, sing and grow in this weekly story time. This program is geared toward babies 0 – 36 months with an accompanying adult. This is the perfect time for families to bond with their child/children.
Wednesday, November 23 at 3:30 p.m. — Art Extreme — We’re taking art to the EXTREME! Explore a wide range of art through painting, drawing, building and more! Art has never been this fun. You don’t want to miss out. For ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, November 23 at 3:30 p.m. — Teen “Just Dance” Tournament — Do you like to dance and have fun? Compete with teens and find out who is the best dancer in Just Dance!
Sunday, November 27 at 2 p.m. — Drop-In Craft — join us for some fun and creativity! Bring a friend or meet new ones. Materials are provided. While supplies last.
For additional information, or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.
Library’s Thanksgiving Holiday Hours & Closures
The Park Forest Library will be closing at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 23. The Library will be closed on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights
‘Organic’ – Through December 8
‘Organic,’ featuring works by Karen Ami, Renee Robbins, Allison Svoboda, and Ana Zanic will run through Thursday, December 8 at PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery. The exhibit is free and open to the public. This exhibit focuses on works in a wide range of media using forms that are organic, shapes and forms that are irregular and based in nature. Additional information can be found in the Gallery Guide. The Christopher Art Gallery Regular Hours are Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. and by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment to view the exhibit phone 708-709-3636 or visit http://prairiestate.edu/christopher-art-gallery.
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.
Adult Coloring
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday morning of each month at 10 a.m., come to the Senior Center to participate in the new Adult Coloring Group. The Center has supplies and several types of mediums to color with. For additional information, call 708-748-5454.
Roosevelt University Gage Gallery, 18 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
‘Not Forgotten: Chicago Street Memorials’ – Through December 3
‘Not Forgotten: Chicago Street Memorials,’ a new exhibit featuring photos and interviews about Chicago street memorials will be exhibited at Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery through December 3. A joint project by Roosevelt University journalism professor Anne-Marie Cusac and Wisconsin photographer Thomas Ferrella, ‘Not Forgotten: Chicago Street Memorials’ explores the story behind 35 organic and largely obscure memorials that remember primarily those killed in Chicago neighborhoods. Cusac and Ferrella spent more than a year traveling some of Chicago’s most violence-prone streets in order to gain an understanding of the kind of grieving that goes on in communities long after the violence is over. Gage Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For more information, visit www.roosevelt.edu/gagegallery or call 312-341-6458
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 State Street, South Holland
Art Works by Joe Rejholec – Through November 22
The Art & Design Department of SSC is presenting a memorial exhibition of Art Works by Joseph “Joe” Rejholec – colleague, mentor, friend, artist and faculty member of South Suburban College, in the college’s Thiel Gallery through November 22. The exhibit is free and open to the public. A friend and inspiration to many artists, Joe was born in Nyack, New York, He was part of the New York Art Students League, went to Syracuse University on a hockey scholarship for a semester, and later attended Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO, to study history where he became interested in pursuing art and earned a BA. He attended Northern Illinois University for his MA in Fine Art. Joe was our longtime Art & Design department chair, and a dedicated teacher and gallery director at South Suburban College for forty years. He was a tireless supporter of the arts who served on numerous arts panels and selection committees, and he was inspirational in the lives of many students and professionals. He resided in Crete, IL where he worked from his home studio until 2016. Influenced by Abstract Expressionism, Jazz, African Art, the smell of burning metal, Camel cigarettes, and coffee, Joe was “Old School” in so many ways. He epitomized the artist as maker, using the sweet poetry of his welded steel sculpture’s two-dimensional line and mass in the service of framing space in the tradition of David Smith, Jacques Lipchitz, Arshile Gorky, Franz Kline and others. His work flies in the face of the flattening elements of Pop Art & Minimalism, transcending stylistic impulses into the realm of the sculptor’s true passion for the framing of the real space of his world. For additional information or Gallery hours, call 708-596-2000, ext. 2445 or ext. 2300 or visit www.ssc.edu.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘A Winter’s Tale’ – Through January 7
Tall Grass Arts Association in DownTown Park Forest, will exhibit ‘A Winter’s Tale’ through Saturday, January 7. The exhibit is free and open to the public. ‘A Winter’s Tale’ is an exhibit of paintings, drawings and photographs by regional artists Graydon Cafarella, Chuck Michaels, Stuart Pearson, Richard Schmidt, Mary Ann Trzyna and Marikay Peter Witlock. Nearly fifty works by these well-known, highly respected, and award-winning artists will fill the gallery walls with images of the season – the pristine and transformed landscapes of frozen lakes and ice-encased trees; blurred suns glowing through snow-heavy skies; barns, bridges and homes half-hidden beneath wind-blown drifts – the special places of winter’s days and nights that have touched the artists. Through their visions of various cold weather moments they remind us how visually exciting and beautiful this time of year is. Curators for ‘A Winter’s Tale’ are Claudia Craemer and Deborah Craemer. Tall Grass Arts Association is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
The Drama Group, 330 West 202nd Street, Chicago Heights
‘Alabama Story’ – Tickets Now on Sale
The Drama Group is pleased to present the riveting drama, ‘Alabama Story’, directed by Suzanne Ashlock. Performances will be held at The Drama Group Studio Theatre on December 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30 p.m. and matinees on December 11 and 18 at 2 p.m. A gentle children’s book with an apparent hidden message stirs the passions of a segregationist senator and a no-nonsense state librarian in 1959 Montgomery, just as the civil rights movement is flowering. Inspired by true events, Alabama Story puts political foes, star-crossed childhood friends, and one feisty children’s author on the same page to conjure a Deep South of the Imagination. ‘Alabama Story’ was a finalist in the 2014 National Playwrights Conference of the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center. 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 here. As a Community Outreach Program, The Drama Group will be collecting children’s books from our audience members by offering a ticket incentive – buy one ticket and receive one ticket free with the donation of a new or gently used children’s book – for the Thursday, December 15, 2016 performance. Donations of all new and gently used children’s books will be accepted at The Drama Group Studio Building in Chicago Heights during “Tech Week” (December 4 – 7, 7:00-9:00pm) and throughout the run of the performances (December 9 – 18, 7:00 – 9:00pm and 1:30 – 4:00pm on Sundays) All Children’s books collected will be distributed to participating Elementary Schools in the surrounding communities. For directions and other information regarding Drama Group activities, please visit the Web site at www.dramagroup.org.
Educational Lectures & Opportunities
Park Forest Police Department, 200 Lakewood Boulevard
Officer Timothy Jones Scholarship – Applications Due by Friday, December 23
The Park Forest Police Department has announced plans to award a scholarship to an area teen in the name of Officer Timothy Jones. The Officer Timothy Jones Scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior residing in Park Forest with a grade point average of at least 2.75 who exhibits strong character. The recipient must also declare criminal justice as their college major and be enrolled in courses in the 2017-18 school year at an accredited college or university. Jones was critically wounded in the line of duty in March of 2016 and continues to rehabilitate from his injuries. The 24-year-old officer, though relatively new to the force in December of 2015, won over the Park Forest community who voted him winner of the Park Forest Police Department’s No Shave November for Charity Competition. The contest allows members of the Park Forest Police Department, typically required to remain clean-shaven, to wear facial hair during the month of November in exchange for donating to cancer research. At the end of the month, members of the department take pictures to be judged by the community in determining best beard. The competition, previously held only during the month of November, was extended this year through December to allow more time for donations to flow in from officers and from the community. The funds received will be used to award the Officer Timothy Jones Scholarship with additional dollars going toward cancer research. The scholarship application deadline is Dec. 23, 2016. For complete details on the Officer Timothy Jones Scholarship, visit villageofparkforest.com/police/jonesscholarship
Prairie State College, 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
PSC Trustee Candidacy Petitions – Now Available
Candidacy petitions for three, six-year, non-compensated terms and one, two-year unexpired, non-compensated term on the Prairie State College (PSC) Board of Trustees are now available. The petition packages can be picked up from the President’s Office, located in room 2270 on PSC’s main campus at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights. The election will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. The vacant positions are for those of Christopher Baikauskas, Brunetta Hill-Corley, Wendell Mosby and Marc Wiley, whose terms expire in April 2017. In order to qualify, a candidate must be at least 18 years old, a citizen of the United States, have resided in Illinois Community College District 515 for at least one year, be a registered voter, and have petition signatures from a minimum of 50 registered voters who live in the district. Petitions with the required number of signatures will be accepted in the PSC President’s Office by the secretary of Community College District 515, or a designated representative, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 12, 2016 through Friday, Dec. 16, 2016. Petitions also will be accepted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Monday, Dec. 19, 2016. A Statement of Candidacy and optional Loyalty Oath also must be filed at that time. Additionally, a Statement of Economic Interests must be filed with the county clerk of the candidate’s residence. The resulting receipt must then be filed with the secretary of Community College District 515 or a designated representative no later than Monday, Dec. 19, 2016. Persons elected on April 4 will be seated at the April Board of Trustees meeting. For more information, contact Patricia Trost, administrative director, president’s office and board of trustees at 708-709-3637.
Spring 2017 Registration – Now in Progress
Registration for the spring 2017 semester at PSC is now open. Students are encouraged to register early as classes will fill quickly. PSC offers convenient, flexible scheduling options for credit courses, including 16, 14, 12 and eight-week courses. Classes are offered days, evenings, weekends and online to accommodate busy schedules. Non-credit courses include a variety of single-day and multiple-session offerings that begin throughout the semester. The 16-week courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 17, 14-week courses begin Monday, Jan. 30, and. The 12-week courses begin Friday, Feb. 10. All 16-, 14- and 12-week courses end Thursday, May 11, and offer the same course material and credit hours. The shorter the number of weeks, the longer the class period. PSC also offers two eight-week course options. The first eight-week courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 17 and end Friday, March 10. Second eight-week courses begin Monday, March 20 and end Thursday, May 11. The eight-week courses typically are fewer credit hours. Many of the college certificate programs offer eight-week courses, allowing students to fit two courses in one semester and to make progress towards that certificate. Both credit and non-credit courses are listed in the spring class schedule, available on the PSC main campus in Chicago Heights. The schedule also is available at area public libraries and online at www.prairiestate.edu. To register for credit courses, new students must complete an enrollment application in person or online. Current students can register in person or log into WebAdvisor. Enrollment Services is open Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Students can register for non-credit courses online or in person. To register online via Instant Enrollment, go to prairiestate.edu and follow the directions to choose How To Enroll under continuing education courses. Another option is to complete the registration form available in the back of the printed course schedule. Students also can register for non-credit courses in person at the Matteson Area Center, located at 4821 Southwick Drive in Matteson, or in the Enrollment Services Office on the PSC main campus. The Matteson Area Center is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about registering for courses at PSC, visit prairiestate.edu or call 708-709-3500.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 State Street, South Holland
Registration for Spring 2017 Semester – Now in Progress
Open Registration for the Spring 2017 Semester at SSC is in progress. Spring classes begin Monday, January 17, at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. The deadline to submit an application for financial aid for the Spring semester at SSC is January 3, 2017. Apply online 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. Current and prospective students are encouraged to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov using institution code 001769. 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. 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.
Court Reporting Open House – Registration Now in Progress
SSC is hosting a Court Reporting Open House on Thursday, December 1, 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. To RSVP or for more information call 708-596-2000, ext. 3217 or email LCooke@ssc.edu. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.
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
Wild Animal Tracks – Registration Required by Friday, December 2
Have you ever wondered how animals spend the winter? Join us Sunday, December 4, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve to explore how different animals survive through the different seasons. Tracks can be clues to wild animals’ identities and behaviors. We will walk the trails searching for signs of animals preparing for winter. Bring home your own track replica. This program is sponsored by Thorn Creek Audubon Society in a partnership with Thorn Creek Nature Center to provide quality environmental education in our area. The ‘Wild Animal Tracks’ program is free and open to children ages 4-10 and children younger than age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required by Friday, December 2 Participants should be prepared to walk a mile outdoors on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. For more information or to register for this program, please call Thorn Creek Nature Center at 708-747-6320 or email thorn_creek@att.net. Visit our website at www.tcwoods.org.
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
Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus, 350 Victory Drive
Flu & Pneumonia Shots – Now Available
Flu shots are available now at the Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus. The cost is $30 for adults, $20 for those 18 years and under, and free for Medicare Part B recipients (must bring copy of card). Pneumonia shots are also available for $80. No appointment is necessary. Shots are available Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Park Forest Health Department Nurses Plus, located in the lower level of Village Hall.
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.
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 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.
Holiday Events & Activities
Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
Salt Creek Ballet to Perform the Nutcracker – Tickets Now on Sale
Nothing beats the din of holiday preparations—cooking, tree-trimming, caroling, lighting candles, shopping. However you choose to commemorate the holidays, GSU’s Center for Performing Arts offers a timeless way to kick off the holiday season for the whole family. Salt Creek Ballet performs its classic Nutcracker on December 3 at 1 and 5 p.m. with a local cast of stellar young talent and some serious star power with guest soloists Gillian Murphy and Marcelo Gomes, both from American Ballet Theatre. Take pictures with Santa at 3 p.m., and enjoy winter treats like hot chocolate and cookies while you meet the Nutcracker cast!
Ticket Information
Tickets: $40/30/20 adults, $18 children under 16
Online: CenterTickets.net
By Phone: 708-235-2222
In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Box Office Hours: Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open to 6p.m. on Thursdays) & 2 hours prior to all performances. Parking is free. For best GPS directions always use the location search term “Governors State University” only.
Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted Street, Chicago
Santa Speedo Run – Boystown Benefit – Registration Now in Progress
The Center on Halsted will hold its Santa Speedo Run – Boystown on Saturday, December 3 from noon to 5 to Benefit Center on Halsted’s Youth Housing Initiative. Get Your Santa On — Better yet, take it off – when you run with us this December. The Santa Speedo Run – Boystown is more than an excuse to hang out your holiday decorations – it’s also a huge party that raises money for non-profits serving Chicago’s LGBTQ community. REGISTER TO RUN as an individual or as a team or MAKE A DONATION and become a part of the fun! Registration is now open. The Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted Street in Chicago, provides a vast array of programs and services designed to advance Chicago’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) and allied community. From cooking classes, yoga and volleyball games to job placement, HIV testing and group therapy, we work hard to enrich the lives of the 1,000+ people who visit Center on Halsted every single day. For additional information, call 773.472.6469 or visit www.centeronhalsted.org
Freedom Hall Nathan Manilow Theatre, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest
Masters of Soul – Tickets Now on Sale
Tickets are available for the performance of Master of Soul on Friday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. This is an encore performance for Masters of Soul with a holiday twist! Masters of Soul is a celebration of the Motown era featuring hits from the Temptations – Gladys Knight & the Pips – Marvin Gaye – Smokey Robinson & the Miracles – Four Tops – Diana Ross & Supremes and many more! Read more about Masters of Soul and view videos. Tickets are $30. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Freedom Hall at 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
‘Then Sings My Soul Christmas’ – Tickets Now on Sale
A performance of ‘Then Sings My Soul Christmas’ will take place at Freedom Hall on Tuesday, December 6 at 11 a.m. “Then Sings My Soul Christmas” is an inspiring concert of great American music that includes well-known Christmas tunes, popular Broadway favorites, beloved jazz standards, and stunning spirituals. Join award-winning mezzo-soprano Cheryse McLeod Lewis and (Name of the Choir joining Ms. Lewis on the show) as they share some of the best American music and most famous Christmas songs ever written. This entertaining show consistently delights audiences of all ages and is a concert that is sure to satisfy the soul and get you into the Christmas spirit! View a video of Cheryse McLeod Lewis. Tickets are $15. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Freedom Hall at 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.
Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park
ArtForum’s Art & Food Market – Monday, November 21
Give a gift that gives back this holiday season by supporting student work! You can get a jump start on your holiday shopping at ArtForum’s Art Market and Food Market on November 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in GSU’s Hall of Governors. ArtForum is a student club focused on the professional development of student artists through networking, art conversation, exposure to the arts, opportunities to exhibit work, and collaborative projects. This year’s event will also include a tamale sale, courtesy of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) and a bake sale courtesy of Reconstructed. ALAS’s mission is to spread awareness of Latin-American culture with engaging educational programs, leaders, and events. Reconstructed is the student literature and art journal acting as a sister club to ArtForum that offers a platform for student writers and artists to publish their work. Proceeds for ALAS and ArtForum help continue general club activities. Proceeds for Reconstructed will go toward production of the journal. The event is open to the public. For more information visit www.govst.edu.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest
‘Winter Wonderland’ Holiday Concert – Tickets Now on Sale
The IPO will perform a ‘Winter Wonderland’ holiday concert on Saturday, December 17 at 3 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way West Performing Arts Center, 21701 Gouger Road, in New Lenox. Guest Conductor Francesco Miliato makes his debut with the IPO for a very family-friendly event. Maestro will lead the orchestra in familiar favorites from ‘The Nutcracker,’ featuring dancers from Ballet 5:8, along with Vivaldi’s ‘Winter’ from “The Four Seasons” and other seasonal classics. In the second half, the orchestra will bring the music from the beloved children’s book and movie, ‘The Polar Express,” to life. Special guests also include the Grande Prairie Singers and the Grande Prairie Children’s Chorus. The afternoon is sure to fill all kids and kids at heart with plenty of holiday spirit. Tickets are $55 for adults and just $5 for children. For additional information or to purchase tickets online visit: www.ipomusic.org or call 708.481.7774.
Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard
Holiday Pecans – Now on Sale
The Park Forest Public Library will once again be selling holiday pecans for $10 per bag. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Library. Supplies are limited so stop by and pick some up today before they are gone.
Salon Artists Gallery, 294 Main Street, Park Forest
Affordable Art Holiday Sale – Through December 31
The Salon Artists Gallery in DownTown Park Forest will present their Annual Affordable Art Holiday Sale is now running thru December 31. You will find art gifts to fulfill all your giving needs at this unique sale. The Gallery will be open for your shopping pleasure on Tuesdays from 10am until 4pm, Wednesdays and Saturdays from Noon until 4 p.m. and on Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. For more information please contact Pat Moore at 708-833-5108 or Bev Szaton at 708-703-7806. Visit our website at http://www.salonartistsgallery.com.
Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest
The Great Gift Gallery – Through January 7
Tall Grass Arts Association will hold The Great Gift Gallery, featuring fine art and crafts for the holidays will be held through Saturday, January 7. The Great Gift Gallery is open to the public. A collection of high-quality and affordable gifts by several regional artists, the show will provide a wonderful range of original art and crafts for the home, apparel, and gift-giving. Artists include: Terry Boykin, Nick Galette, Jan Podbielski, Carey Primeau, Sylvester Robinson, Julena Rupais, Flynn Sochon and Susan Wade. Curator for the Great Gift Gallery is Janet Muchnik. Tall Grass Arts Association is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrassarts.org.
Thorn Creek Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Woodland Carols – Saturday, December 10
Start your holiday season off right by giving to others during “Woodland Carols” on Saturday, December 10 from noon to 2 p.m. at Thorn Creek Nature Center. Savor homemade soups while listening to holiday music by popular area performers. The event is an annual holiday food drive for the Rich Township Food Pantry. You won’t want to miss this! Woodland Carols will feature performers Bittersweet Christmas Band, Anna Stange and Ingrid Krizan. Register now for the “Woodland Carols” program. Cost for program is $10 per person, or one bag of groceries per person. Bittersweet Christmas Band presents a potpourri of music that represents every possible perspective on the holiday season from the reverent to the ridiculous. Two-to-four-part harmonies and masterful instrumentation on guitar, banjo, mountain dulcimer, hand drum and other percussion instruments make the Bittersweet Christmas Band an act not to be missed! Margaret Nelson is a songwriter and vocalist whose crystal clear tones make the holiday music come to life. Phil Cooper is well known for his beautiful arrangements of traditional ballads and tunes. His exceptional guitar playing provides the perfect melodic setting for each song this band performs. Susan Urban, a well-respected song writer and “wise” woman, provides both lead and harmony vocals as well as solid rhythm guitar back-up. Add Kate Early’s strong harmonies and sense of humor, and you have a band that has a great time making music. Bittersweet Christmas Band has released three recordings: “Dance In the Dark of the Year”, “Yuletide Magic” and “Glad and Golden Hours.” Ingrid Krizan, Thorn Creek naturalist by day and concert cellist by night, weaves nature narratives into musical renditions fitting to the season. Her offerings strive to underline the relevant connections between life, nature, and art music. Anna Stange, a favorite performer for Woodland Carols, excels as a singer, song-writer, peace activist, quilter and gardener. Join Anna as she brings her subtly quiet yet on-target sense of humor and humanity back to our stage once again. Anna will close out the concert by leading our seasonal sing-along. The Pantry, located on Governors Highway, regularly feeds over 750 low-income families from the ten surrounding communities in Rich Township. All donations from Woodland Carols will help to feed these local families during the holiday season. Last year’s event provided bags of groceries and $380 in donations to the Food Pantry. Donation items can be dropped off at the nature center during open hours, Friday-Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Acceptable items are: non-perishable food items (including boxed, canned and dry foods) especially cereals and peanut butter; personal care items for men and women, especially toothpaste, deodorants and razors; ziplock quart and gallon size bags; baby formula; and disposable diapers (adult and infant). Items will be accepted through Saturday, December 10. For more information about Woodland Carols or to register, please contact Thorn Creek Nature Center at 708-747-6320 or email thorn_creek@att.net.
‘Prairie Chapel’ Print – Makes Perfect Holiday Gift
The perfect winter gift giving present for art lovers and for nature lovers is now available. Inspired by the Thorn Creek Nature Center, “Prairie Chapel”, is an original graphite drawing by local artist Marikay Peter Witlock. Through a generous donation by the artist, the “Prairie Chapel“print is available with a donation to Friends of Thorn Creek Woods of $75 or more. 100% of donated dollars will benefit Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve. The “Prairie Chapel” print is a limited edition of 300 signed and numbered prints, with image size of 13” x 17” and finished size of 18” x 21”. It is printed on acid free 80 lb. paper. Friends of Thorn Creek Woods is a tax-exempt 501(c) (3) organization. Donations to Friends, over the value of the Prairie Chapel print (valued at $75) are tax-deductible. To view a framed “Prairie Chapel” print, visit Thorn Creek Nature Center Friday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For more information about “Prairie Chapel” or to register for Woodland Carols, please contact Thorn Creek Nature Center at 708-747-6320 or email thorn_creek@att.net.
Union Street Gallery (USG), 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights
2016 Handmade Market – Through December 17
USC will host its 2016 Handmade Market through Saturday, December 17. The Market is open to the public. You will find something for everyone this holiday thanks to the talents of Pam Eberlin, Dorita Fuller, Madeline Henry, Alexis Moulds, Melvina Stemley, Suzanne Dreher, Anitra Frazier, Aline Keith, Joe McIlhaney, Pat Moore to name a few. For additional information, call 708-754-2601 or visit www.unionstreetgallery.org.
Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive
Shop Locally This Holiday Season
The hustle and bustle of the holidays are upon us. To enjoy your holidays to the fullest by cutting down on the stress, long store lines and parking problems that come with this time of the year, shop locally. While Park Forest may not have many ‘big name’ retailers, there are plenty of shops where you can find a unique gift for that someone special. And the Village has made it very easy to locate these vendors through its annual comprehensive Shopping and Service Guide. You can Download the Guide that has active links to local business websites. Copies are also available in Village Hall Lobby, 350 Victory Drive or contact Monica DeLord at 708-283-5617 or mdelord@vopf.com to obtain a copy.
Park Forest’s Annual Tree Lighting – Friday, December 2
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting takes place Friday, Dec. 2, beginning at 5 p.m., at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. The event features arts, crafts, and refreshments for kids from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The lighting of the Holiday Tree happens just after 6 p.m. on the Village Green, just steps from Dining on the Green. The Rich East High School Band will provide holiday music. The event is free and very popular with families looking to get into the holiday spirit. Residents are encouraged to arrive early to this event due to limited space. A special guest is also expected to make an appearance for the Holiday Tree Lighting. This event is co-sponsored by the Village of Park Forest and the Park Forest Public Library. For additional information, call 708-748-1112.
This & That
Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted Street, Chicago Heights
Veterans Events – Through November
PSC will be celebrating our courageous veterans throughout the month of November with several activities. All activities will be held at the college’s main campus in Chicago Heights.
Donations to the Manteno Veterans Home — The College is conducting the seventh annual supply collection for the male and female veterans living at the Manteno Veterans Home through Dec. 15. All donations can be dropped off in the Student Veterans Center. The home needs t-shirts, underwear, socks, toothbrushes, tubes of toothpaste and other toiletry items. These are the items that the veterans are not supplied by the Veterans Administration. If the veteran does not have family that brings these items, they are forced to do without or recycle what they have.
Student veterans are eligible for early registration, in-district tuition rates (regardless of where they live), and one-on-one assistance navigating college life. These services extend to all service members, regardless of when they served or whether it was active, reserve, or National Guard component. Whether an individual is a new student, returning student, or deployed on active duty, PSC offers assistance so veterans can achieve their academic goals. PSC also has a Student Veterans Center, which offers veterans a place to study and socialize with other veterans and find out information on services available to them both at PSC and in the community. For more information on the Veterans Day celebrations being held on campus or for more information about the services PSC offers to veterans, contact Georges Sanon, coordinator, student veterans’ center, at 708-709-3567 or gsanon@prairiestate.edu.
South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland
Two-Day Baseball Catching Camp – Registration Now in Progress
SSC Head Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich will be directing a two-day Catching Camp on Monday, December 26th and Tuesday, December 27th from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Coach Ruzich has directed youth camps for the past 30 years and has taught baseball skills at many other baseball camps throughout the state. This clinic will provide catching instruction in the areas of blocking, calling a game, pick offs, pop throwing times, stance and footwork, drills for practice, pop ups, handling pitchers, and conditioning. In addition to Ruzich’s instruction, Bulldog baseball players will be on hand to help and develop skills. The players’ enthusiasm and expertise always adds to the camp’s success. The Catching Camp is open to boys ages 8-18. All players should bring their glove and gear. All participants should wear baseball or sweat pants and gym shoes, and boys must wear cups. Coach Ruzich was an All-American catcher at the College of St. Francis. He graduated in 1985 and was drafted by the Chicago White Sox. Coach Ruzich had a short stint as a pro catcher before coming to SSC as Head Baseball Coach in 1987, where he has compiled a winning record of 1069-640. The cost of the Catching Camp is $100, and checks should be made payable to SSC Bulldog Baseball. Enrollment is limited, so early registration is suggested. For more information contact Coach Ruzich at 708-225-5843.
The post In and Around Park Forest for the Week of November 20, 2016 appeared first on eNews Park Forest.