In This Issue

DISCOVER
Magazine
In This Issue
• Nurses Plus:
Here for your health
The return of
• Main Street Nights!
In This Issue
What brought Barack Obama
Park Forest Health Depar tment
Winter 2009
• Celebrates 60 Years
• Park Forest
to Park Forest?
• Grocery Store Set to Open
• Planning for the Future in Park Forest
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
The Village of Park Forest is unique in
having a professional health department
that is at the service of its residents. Most
communities of our size may have some
health-related programs, but few have
a department to compare with ours.
Over the years, the Park Forest Health
Department has been instrumental in
fostering health-related opportunities
not only for our own citizens, but also
for residents throughout the south
suburban region and even in other
sections of greater Chicagoland.
One outstanding example of how this
has been accomplished is found in the
Access to Care program that is in place
throughout Cook County and adjacent
areas. The Park Forest Health Department
was a founding member of Access to Care
and PF Health Department employees
have held leadership positions in the
organization over many years. Access
to Care works with doctors and other
healthcare providers to obtain from
them volunteer services for patients who
are in need. The physicians and other
healthcare professionals donate time for
as many patients as they feel they are
able to treat without interfering with the
remainder of their practice. They agree
that these patients will be treated just as
are all of their paying clients, with no
indication whatsoever that they are
receiving their healthcare services for
no charge. When they show up at their
doctor’s office, no one else in the waiting
room has the slightest notion that they
are not fully paying clients. At no time is
any individual’s dignity put in question
or is he or she in any way singled out.
They receive the same professional
health care as do all of the other patients
who are able to pay for the services they
receive or who have insurance coverage.
Persons who receive the benefits
of Access to Care have completed
applications that show they are unable to
provide on their own for their healthcare
costs, either because of poverty or lack of
insurance.
Another little known service of the
Park Forest Health Department is the
providing of physical examinations
for school children whose parents are
not able to afford to pay for a doctor’s
examination of them. State law requires
that students at various grade levels
show proof of having had physical
examinations, required immunizations,
etc. For the vast majority of the public,
insurance coverage is available to
cover these costs. For some, however,
neither family resources nor insurance
is available, and – as a result – many
school children are held back for weeks
or months because they cannot meet
the state’s requirements. The Park
Forest Health Department makes these
examinations available at either no cost
or a reduced cost, depending on the
financial circumstances of the family.
For the most part, these examinations
are paid for from funds donated to
the Friends of the Park Forest Health
Department. I urge citizens to remember
this important program whenever they
are considering making philanthropic
contributions.
Senior services also are important
components of the Park Forest Health
Department’s overall program. The
department works closely with the
Village’s Senior Citizen Advisory
Commission to make sure seniors
in our community are aware of
healthcare services that are available.
The commission holds seminars and
1
other public awareness programs in
connection with the Health Department
as a means of advancing preventative
care for our senior citizens. The Health
Department’s services are available both
to seniors who continue to reside in their
own homes and to those who may have
taken up residency in one of our Village’s
senior centers.
Of course, preventative healthcare is
important for everyone, and for that
reason the Health Department also offers
such programs as “stop-smoking” clinics
and weight-loss seminars. The recent
“10-Ton Challenge” was an example of a
program that helped a number of Park
Forest residents lose extra pounds and
thereby increase their opportunity for
continued healthy living.
The Park Forest Village Board has adopted
a legislative agenda for the current year
that includes an effort to convince our
elected legislators that more state funds
should be available for municipalities
such as ours that foster health services
at the local level. Especially at the
current time, when so many individuals
unfortunately are losing jobs due
to the declining economy, many are
finding themselves without healthcare
coverage and also without the personal
funds to provide for their physical wellbeing. I urge you to join your elected
local officials in lobbying our legislators
for this important funding. With more
dollars available to our Village, the Park
Forest Health Department will be able to
expand the services it provides and thus
assure better health for all our citizens.
John A. Ostenburg, Mayor
Nurses Plus: Friends Indeed
When
Director
Christine
Blue
started with the
Park Forest Health
Department
more than 15
years ago, she
reported to work
at the Medical Arts Building, an older
building that currently still stands a
block from Village Hall. At the time, the
Park Forest Health Department Nurses
Plus was quite an anomaly. Not many
municipalities had their own health
department, and Village officials were
quite proud to be in this rare company.
Years later, much has changed for the
Park Forest Health Department—
including a new location and some new
faces and services. But one thing is still
the same: Nurses Plus remains a rare
example of a community health service,
sponsored by a municipality.
In 2007, Nurses Plus moved to their new
home in the lower level of Village Hall.
The brand new space was a welcome
change, but the transition was a
challenge, said Blue. Transporting all of
the Health Department’s large pieces
of equipment was difficult, as was the
task of alerting the community that the
Department had not closed, but had
simply taken up a new address.
“We were moving from a ground level,
with high visibility, to a lower level. That
presented a real opportunity. How do
you convince people that you are there?”
That question would soon be
addressed by Health Department staff,
brainstorming on how to re-establish
their presence in the community.
In the coming years, they would
increase efforts for promoting better
health amongst Park Forest residents
and citizens of the greater southern
suburban region.
In 2007, the Health Department started
a year-long initiative focused on
diabetes. In 2008, the focus shifted to
helping members of the community
achieve a healthy weight with the Ten
Ton Challenge. With that effort, area
residents lost close to 2,600 pounds and
donated 7,150 pounds of food to the
Rich Township Food Pantry. With both
efforts, hundreds participated.
“We’ve become very good at responding
quickly to buzz topics and to what the
issues are in the community. The whole
goal is to be the healthiest community in
the state and there’s no reason we can’t
be,” said Blue.
In helping the community work towards
achieving that goal, the Park Forest
Health Department sees an average
of 13,000 clients per year (spanning
61 towns), offering services in 5 areas:
Environmental Health, Home Health,
Adult Services, Mother, Child and Family
Health, and Senior Health. Especially
2
popular are child and adult immunization
and in-home services.
In addition to the convenience of
having healthcare professionals in town,
residents are also pleased with the
minimal waiting period to be seen, and
costs that are a fraction of what visits to
other providers tend to be.
“Sometimes the immunizations that
come along with school physicals can
be up to 100’s of dollars. And those are
all included in the price of our school
physicals. Our maximum charge is $51,
and that’s offset by the contributions
from the Friends of the Park Forest
Health Department.” The proceeds from
the upcoming auction of the Ten Ton
Challenge mascot will help assure these
costs remain low for school physicals for
area children.
This commitment to the community and
the affordable, friendly service offered
at the Park Forest Health Department is
what makes their presence so significant
and special, Blue explained. “All of our
nurses live in town. That adds an extra
layer of accountability and trust. These
are people that are not only your nurses,
but are also your neighbors and friends.”
More information on the Park Forest
Health Department Nurses Plus is
available by calling 708.748.1118 or by
visiting www.pfhealth.net.
Park Forest Farmers Market
Eat fresh and live healthy! Join hundreds of locals and numerous vendors, from near
and far, for the 36th season of the Park Forest Farmers’ Market; one of the finest the
southern suburbs has to offer. A wide variety of the freshest fruits, vegetables and
garden plants are available, as well as fine cheeses, select meats and much more!
The Park Forest Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday, from May through October,
at the corner of Lakewood and Forest (in the parking lot of Eagle Movie Theatre, just
across from the Park Forest Police Department). Market hours are 7 am to noon.
Challenge Cow to be Auctioned
The mascot of the 2008 Park Forest Ten Ton Challenge is getting a paint job. Local
artists have been painting the cow for the past several weeks, and should have the
project wrapped up shortly. The finished product with be a unique piece of art to be
auctioned off to a lucky winner. Proceeds from the auction will help keep the costs
of school physicals, provided by the Park Forest Health Department, to a minimum.
For more information on the auction date, time and location, be sure to check the
Village’s website at www.vopf.com or contact the Park Forest Health Department at
708.748.1118.
New Doors at Village Hall
Entering Village Hall is now as simple as a push of a button. Automatic doors were
installed in January, and have been a welcome addition for many since. The first person
to make use of the automatic doors was Park Forest resident David Atkins.
3
We Asked You: “What does living a healthy lifestyle mean to you?”
Discover Magazine set out to find out what exactly healthy living means to area residents. We chatted with people at Quality Classic
Health and Fitness Center on Main Street and at the newly opened Orchard Fresh Market on Orchard Drive, and here’s what they
said:
“Taking care of your
body.”
“Living longer and
looking better.”
Tari, University Park
Pat, Park Forest
“Eating properly, getting
sufficient exercise,
keeping in a good frame
of mind.”
Chuck, Matteson
“It’s a way of life. I was
265 and I decided to get
back into (exercise) and
now I’m down to 195.”
“Eating the right kinds
of foods, exercising and
having a happy state of
mind.”
Steve, Steger
Ian, Park Forest
“Growing your own, and
working in your own
garden.”
Bill, Park Forest
We Asked the Pros for Recommendations for Healthier Living
We
asked
Dr.
Matthew Johnson
of Park Forest Family
Practice. Here are
tips from The Doc:
1. Early to bed, early
to rise – Not getting
enough sleep puts
stress on the heart
and can increase cortisol levels. Cortisol
worsens obesity and insulin resistance.
You should aim to get a minimum of 7 to
8 hours of sleep a night. People who go to
sleep early are also more likely to exercise
in the morning.
2. Get off the Couch – Exercise! If you
don’t have a membership to the local
gym, a 30 minute brisk walk, 5 days a
week, is enough to reduce the risk of
heart disease.
3. Snack a little – Studies show that
people who snack between meals are
less likely to overeat. One handful of any
fruit or vegetable, whole wheat crackers
or low fat yogurt are ideal snacks. Those
who keep healthy snacks handy are less
likely to visit the drive- thru window and
will wait until they get home to have a
healthy meal.
4. Exercise – 30 to 60 minutes daily doing
whatever is fun. Movement is the essence
of life.
We asked Nona
Frazier, Health and
Wellness Consultant
with
Recreation
and
Parks,
her
recommendations:
5. Owning your power in the aspects
of quality, quantity and frequency Do your best to be your best. View the
pain, fear and challenges of life from the
observer point of view. Stay in the here
and now (not living in the past).
The five basics for
We also asked Jenise Ervin, Nursing
Supervisor for the Park Forest Health
Department Nurses Plus:
optimal health are :
1. Water - One quart of purified clean
water for every 50 pounds of body weight.
The kidneys can filter approximately eight
ounces of water every half hour.
2. Food - A serving is the size of your fisted
hand. Choose only healthy foods YOU
enjoy. Eat when hungry and stop when
you’re not. Focus on health gain rather
than weight loss.
3. Rest - Everyday a minimum of 7 to 9
hours of sleep on your side or back. Your
body heals when you sleep.
4
1. See your medical
provider at least
once a year for a
comprehensive
physical exam - This
exam should include
all the recommended
health screenings for
your age and gender.
It is important to
be diligent with this because it will help
identify risk factors for some diseases
before they develop. The benefit in
Continued from page 4
knowing early will minimize the chance
that a disease will cause a long-term
effect on your overall health.
2. Don’t allow “fear of the unknown”
to delay your decision to seek medical
attention - Often times we imagine
problems to be far worse than they really
are or hope that if we ignore a problem,
it will resolve on its own. In most cases,
knowing is better! Knowing can give
you a chance to correct a problem or
Registration Now
Open for Labor
Day’s Park Forest
Scenic 5 and More!
eliminate a life-threatening impact from a
health problem.
3. Manage Stress - Studies have shown
that many illnesses have one trigger in
common….stress! Do whatever you
can to minimize or balance the stressors
in your life. Here are some common
ways to reduce stress: regular exercise,
massage, meditation, time management,
plan ahead, prioritize and simplify by
doing what really needs to be done, think
positively, relax & take a break when
you’re feeling overwhelmed, and be
responsible, but don’t worry about things
you can’t control.
Many resources are available, right here in
town, to help residents live healthier and
feel and look better in the process!
Elite Skills Academy has Arrived!
A huge component to being healthy is
physical activity. Studies have shown
that running can reduce the chances
of everything from heart disease to
the common cold. It is also a great
stress reliever and studies also show
many who run are generally happier
than those who don’t.
Why not set a goal for yourself this year
to complete the Park Forest Scenic 5?
The 5 mile run drew participants last
year as young as 10 and as old as 81.
It’s never too early or too late to be
conscious about how much exercise
you are getting and how it affects your
health and happiness. If you need a
push, call a few friends and ask them
to sign up with you. Motivating each
other and training in groups has also
shown to help achieve success.
The Park Forest Scenic 5 run takes
place Labor Day, September 7,
starting at 8 am. Invite the rest of
the family for other activities taking
place throughout the day including,
Children’s Races, a 5k Walk of the
Wetlands, and a 5 lap swim at the Park
Forest Aqua Center.
For more information visit our website
at Recreation and Parks at (708) 7482005.
The 9-week Elite Skills Academy program
will give boys & girls the chance to
enhance their athletic skill level, while
also educating them on the importance
of good decision making on and off the
court.
Students will compete on a daily basis
and will learn new skills and techniques
that will help them as they develop into
stronger basketball players. Students will
have the opportunity to interact with
professional athletes and current coaches
that can advise them on how the game of
basketball has impacted their lives.
Our Summer EnRICHment program
has been accepted by numerous high
school and middle school coaches in the
area, and will serve as a positive way for
student athletes from their schools to
train and better prepare themselves for
the upcoming season.
5
Students will also play in scrimmages and
games against top ranked AAU and travel
teams throughout the summer.
The program is directed by Kevin Adams,
Assistant Men’s basketball Coach at
Prairie State, Prairie State College Head
Women’s Basketball Coach Jeffrey Boyd
and Langston University Assistant Men’s
Basketball Coach Nigel Thomas.
Enrollment is currently underway.
Program begins June 9th, ends August
6th and will be held on Tuesday –
Thursday from 9 am to 12 pm at Rich East
High School.
For grades 6-12. Cost: $140.00
Contact Recreation and Parks Supervisor
Kevin Adams for further details at:
708-748-2005.
Park Forest Kids
Learn From White Sox
Instructors
A Chicago White Sox training clinic was
enjoyed by Park Forest youth earlier
this year. Kids spent several hours
participating in numerous drills that
included base-running and positioning
activities.
Be sure to drop by Central Park this
summer to catch a baseball or softball
game, and get a glimpse of tomorrow’s
stars on the diamond! Fields at Central
Park now include new dugouts, which
were installed last year, courtesy of Park
Forest Baseball.
EDAG Announces Award
Nomination Process
Sam Montella, Economic Development
Advisory Group Chairman, announces
a new annual award to recognize Park
Forest business owners who have made
contributions to the betterment of the
greater Park Forest Community.
Chairman Montella encourages business
owners to self-nominate — “Now, more
than ever, is the time to take stock in
the value of the contributions you’ve
made in improving the quality of life
for the residents of Park Forest.” Further,
Montella suggested that business
owners consider the various fund raising
Park Forest Chess Club
The Park Forest Chess Club is making
moves.
matches in different areas of town during
popular community events.
The group, launched by Recreation and
Parks staff member Gene Finley, started
5 years ago with only 2 members. Since
then, numerous Park Forest residents,
both young and old, have faced off on
opposite sides of the table to ponder their
chess game strategy. The club now has 11
members and enjoys friendly matches on
Saturday’s from 1-3 in the employee
lounge of Village Hall.
Ages of players range from nine years old
to sixty-three years old.
Those interested in joining the Park Forest
Chess Club should contact Recreation &
Parks at 708- 748-2005. Registration is
$20 and is open to all ages.
Recreation and Parks Supervisor Anna
Soloff says, “It is truly amazing to see the
generations come together over a single
game of the mind such as chess.”
The Chess Club has increased awareness
in the Village over the years by scheduling
initiatives they’ve supported, gifts they’ve
provided for community events, teams
they’ve sponsored, “Pro-bono” services
they’ve offered or any other activity that
they believe may have made a positive
difference. Submit the completed
nomination form to EDAG in care of the
Village of Park Forest by October 30, 2009.
Nominations for the business owner
who has achieved excellence in
community service will be solicited from
civic organizations, the general public,
churches, schools, public institutions, nonprofits, and recreational groups.
COMMUNITY SERVICE RECOGNTITION NOMINATION FORM This award recognizes current Park Forest business
owners for excellence in community service and
making a difference.
Nominee’s Name:
Business Name:
Business Address:
Phone number:
□
Nominee must meet the following three critieria:
In good standing
□ In business five years
□ Commercial address
Describe nominee’s contributions to enhancing the quality of life for residents and business owners in
Park Forest. (Include description of community service, evidence of activity and describe the impact of
the service or activity. If photos are available, attach photos.)
Nominator’s name:
Nomination Deadline is October 30, 2009
Address:
Phone & e-mail:
Please return this nomination form by e‐mail to [email protected]; in person at the Office of Economic Development,2nd Floor of Village Hall; or by mail to Economic Development, Village of Park Forest, 350 Victory Drive, Park Forest, IL 60466). 6
Be a Good Neighbor
Know Thy Neighbor. Introduce yourself
and your family to the neighbors. You
never know when you may need them to
keep an eye out for you.
guests over, they will more than likely be
prepared for the crowd, noise and extra
cars. They may even consider calling you
before the police when it gets too loud.
Become an Advocate for your
Neighborhood. Join local committees,
volunteer at the local schools, churches, etc.
More involved and informed residents
serve as valuable resources for their
neighbors.
Encourage the Usage of Sidewalks.
Encourage your children to walk on the
sidewalks and not your neighbor’s grass.
Many people spend a lot of time and
money on beautifying their property and
take these things very seriously. Make
sure that they understand the borders of
your property and your neighbors.
Be Cognizant of Thy Neighbor. If your
neighbor does not have pets, they may
be allergic or not much of a pet person.
Therefore, always walk your dog with a
leash, clean up after your dog and try to
calm excessive barking.
Warn Neighbors of Excessive Noise. If
you know that you are having guests over,
let your neighbor know or even invite
them over. If a neighbor is expecting
Remodeling? Be sure to get renovation
approval from the Building Department
at Village Hall and keep your neighbors
advised of the potential increased traffic.
Parking Don’ts. Make sure you alert your
guest not to block the sidewalks when
parking in the driveway, be respectful of
your neighbor’s driveway.
7
Have suggestions? Email Evelyn Sterling,
Community Relations Coordinator at
[email protected].
COMP
Park Forest Mediation
Task Force
We are looking for New Mediators!
Role of a Mediator:
A mediator is a volunteer and Park
Forest resident who assists in resolving
neighborly disputes constructively and
come to an agreement that suits both
parties.
Steps to becoming a Mediator:
1. Submit a letter or email of interest.
2. Complete application.
3. Complete interview.
Park Forest Celebrates 60 Years
4. Complete training class.
(Night classes available)
The Village of Park Forest rang in 60 years
of incorporation Sunday, February 1st
with a celebration at Freedom Hall.
If you are interested in becoming a
Mediator, please submit a letter of
interest to: Evelyn Sterling, 350 Victory
Drive, Park Forest, IL 60466 or email
[email protected].
Close to 175 people were in attendance
for the event that drew current and
former Park Forest residents, elected
officials and a host of others with ties to
the Village.
Village Manager Tom Mick and Park
Forest Historical Society President Jerry
Shnay emceed the celebration.
Park Forest President John Ostenburg
was joined by former President Ron Bean,
8
Park Forest’s first resident Leonna Delue,
and Park Forest Hall of Fame inductees
Barbara Moore and Therese Goodrich,
who all offered remarks during the hourlong affair.
Ostenburg and Delue took part in a
ceremonial cake cutting, as mingling and
refreshments were enjoyed in the lobby
area of Freedom Hall.
The Village of Park Forest, incorporated
February 1st, 1949, is a two-time AllAmerican City Award- winner and
currently home to over 24,000 residents.
1. ___________
WIN
$25
We would like to know how well you know Park Forest. The first person
to name the location of each of these pictures will win a $25 dollar gift
certificate from your choice of business within Park Forest.
How Well Do You
Know Park Forest?
Entries are due by July 12th . Please return all entries to: Evelyn Sterling,
Community Relations Coordinator, Village of Park Forest Drop Box, 350
Victory Drive.
Name: ______________________________________________
Contact#: ___________________________________________
How Well
Do You Know
for the winner and answers in the next Discover Magazine and for
How Well Look
our next upcoming “How Well do you Know Park Forest” contest.
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Do You Know2. _____________________________
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Date Submitted: ______________________________________
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Park Forest
2009 Hall
of Famers
Pictured:
John Ray, Myrtle Martin, Park Forest
Historical Society Archivist Jane
Nicoll, Gary Kopycinski
The Park Forest Historical Society held the
2009 Park Forest Hall of Fame inductions
on Sunday, April 19th at Freedom Hall. Four
people who have contributed to the life
and citizens of Park Forest were honored
this year. The class of 2009 included:
Marty O’Neill
Through his efforts for children, his church
and his community, the late Marty O’Neill
was a tireless volunteer. From coaching
girls’ softball to his caring church work
through his participation in the Park
Forest Area Chamber of Commerce,
O’Neill was a solid and consistent force
for good in both the community and
the area. At one time he served as a
mediator for St. Iranaeus Catholic Church
when he was called upon by Fr. Daniel
O’Sullivan to help solve conflicts among
parishioners. He did this through fairness
and patience and established a peaceful
atmosphere within the group. He was also
a leader in establishing the Alamo Club, an
organization that assisted those fighting
alcoholism and their family members, on
church grounds. As a volunteer in the
Park Forest Area Chamber of Commerce,
O’Neill gave his time, talents and strengths
to enables the organization to prosper
prior to its merger with the Matteson
Area Chamber of Commerce. As a coach,
he helped build character development
and served as a positive role model to his
charges. He and his wife Georgia O’Neill,
a member of the Park Forest Board of
Trustees, raised three children. O’Neill, a 35year resident of Park Forest, died in 2005
after a three-year battle with cancer.
John R. Ray
Art knows no limits, and in his creative
efforts throughout the years, John R. Ray
has used his time and talents to expand
the artistic horizons of the community.
As a member of Park Forest’s Youth
Commission for seven years, as a board
member of both the Illinois Theatre Center
and The Tall Grass Arts Association, and as
an art teacher, he generously gave of his
time and artistic talent. In his three years as
a Theatre Center board member, he served
as both an advisor and active participant,
and even contributed his artistic skills to
paint sets for various productions and
designing a mural for a major fund-raising
effort. He also created an annual exhibit
of junior high school artwork from south
suburban schools displayed at the Tall
Grass Gallery. A resident of Park Forest for
37 years, John Ray’s efforts in art education
even reached international scope during a
trip to the Orient, when he used art work
from students at Algonquin School as gifts
to children in orphanages and hospitals
in Japan and China. Through his career,
he has exhibited what he calls “a deep
concern for our youth during what can be
difficult years for them.”
Myrtle C. Martin
There doesn’t seem to be enough hours
in the day to encompass all of Myrtle C.
Martin’s activities. As a 44-year resident
of Park Forest, Myrtle C. Martin has
established herself a strong force for
mediation, education and art appreciation.
As Executive Director of the Community
Educational Service Center, Myrtle Martin
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used her grant writing skills and her
organizational ability in a successful effort
to integrate Park Forest-Chicago Heights
School District 163 in the turbulent 1970s.
What began as a request to complete an
application for federal funds turned into
a method for parents of school children
from both communities to come together
and discuss their fears, concerns and goals.
She has been a member of the Park Forest
Mediation Task Force, a group of trained
volunteers that mediate disputes between
citizens in a the experience, she says, gives
her the opportunity to help others have “a
peaceful experience that I have had living
in Park Forest.” As a member of the Tall
Grass Arts Association Board of Directors,
she has served as everything from vicepresident to weekly gallery “sitter” to a
member of the annual Beaux Arts Ball
committee to what she calls an “all-around
girl Friday.”
Gary Kopycinski
Although a relative newcomer to Park
Forest, Gary Kopycinski is recognized
as a prime contributor to the village.
Kopycinski’s commitment to Park
Forest goes beyond the ordinary and
encompasses everything from service as
a current Village Trustee, of which he says
he is “incredibly honored,” to the public
spokesman for the Park Forest Running
and Pancake Club and numerous civic
and political organizations along the
way. After moving to Park Forest in 2000,
he became involved with the Tall Grass
Arts Association, the Far South Suburban
NAACP, the League of Women Voters of the
Medal of Honor
Continued from page 10
Park Forest Area, the Park Forest FOCUS
political organization and the South
Chicagoland Young Democrats, which he
helped organize. “I still prefer the winding
curved street of Park Forest to anywhere
else in the Chicagoland area,” he says with
pride. In recent years he also launched
“eNews Park Forest,”an online news archive
that reaches thousands of subscribers in
the Park Forest area each week and has
become the primary source for news in
Park Forest and beyond. Kopycinski has
been a teacher at Marian Catholic High
School in Chicago Heights for the last 19
years. He is single but has an adopted son,
James.
The Village of Park Forest is rich in history
despite its relatively young age. It is one
of America’s first “planned communities,”
and was created in order to house
returning Veterans of World War II. The
founders of the community decided to
name 18 streets after Illinois Veterans who
were awarded the Congressional Medal
of Honor (CMH) in World War II. Among
those honored was Fred F. Lester.
For more information on past Hall of
Fame inductees, or to learn more about
the history of Park Forest, visit www.
parkforesthistory.org
Firefighter of the Year
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity
at the risk of his life above and beyond
the call of duty while serving as a
Medical Corpsman with an Assault Rifle
Platoon, attached to the 1st Battalion,
22d Marines, 6th Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces
on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
and integrity. Fire/Medic Gray has acted
as a mentor for many of the younger shift
members and is always available to lend a
hand when needed. Fire/Medic Gray was
active as a shift fire inspector, has worked
on a variety of public education related
projects and is an active member of the
CART organization.
Joseph Gray, a 19-year veteran of the
department, was named “Firefighter of the
Year” in February.
Beginning his career in Park Forest in
1989, Fire/Medic Gray has always been
an active participant in fire department
activities, has been an acting officer on
numerous occasions and continually
exhibits commitment, professionalism
Fire/Medic Gray’s can-do attitude has
resulted in the completion of special
projects that have benefited the fire
department, other Village departments,
surrounding fire departments and the
residents of Park Forest. Over the years
Fire/Medic Gray has worked on creating
various training props, public education
displays, the fire safety trailer and the
video firefighter display board at Village
Hall. Most recently, he accepted the
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8 June 1945. Quick to spot a wounded
marine lying in an open field beyond the
front lines following the relentless assault
against a strategic Japanese hill position,
Lester unhesitatingly crawled toward the
casualty under a concentrated barrage
from hostile machine guns, rifles, and
grenades. Torn by enemy rifle bullets as he
inched forward, he stoically disregarded
the mounting fury of Japanese fire and his
own pain to pull the wounded man toward
a covered position. Struck by enemy
fire a second time before he reached
cover, he exerted tremendous effort
and succeeded in pulling his comrade
to safety where, too seriously wounded
himself to administer aid, he instructed 2
of his squad in proper medical treatment
of the rescued marine. Realizing that his
own wounds were fatal, he staunchly
refused medical attention for himself and,
gathering his fast-waning strength with
calm determination, coolly and expertly
directed his men in the treatment of 2
other wounded marines, succumbing
shortly thereafter. Completely selfless in
his concern for the welfare of his fighting
comrades, Lester, by his indomitable
spirit, outstanding valor, and competent
direction of others, had saved the life of
1 who otherwise must have perished and
had contributed to the safety of countless
others. Lester’s fortitude in the face of
certain death sustains and enhances the
highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.
daunting task of taking the Chief’s vision
of a Fire/Police Memorial Monument
and coordinated various contractors to
bring to fruition a memorial honoring
retired firefighters and police officers. This
memorial represents the brother-hood
that exists between firefighters and police
officers and will still be standing long after
Fire/Medic Gray’s service.
Firefighter/Paramedic Joseph Gray’s
performance and professionalism are in
keeping with the highest traditions of
the Fire Service and reflect credit upon
himself, the Fire Department and the
Village of Park Forest.
Last year’s recipient of the Firefighter of
the Year was Chris Apt.
COMP
Tips for a Safe and Secure Spring from the
Community Development Department
As part of your spring cleaning process
take some time to check your property for
attractive nuisances. Attractive nuisances
are those things that might draw
unwanted situations to your property and
neighborhood.
Eliminate those items that might
depreciate the value of homes within the
community and enhance the features that
will improve the neighborhood and your
own property’s curb appeal.
Check your exterior lighting fixtures: are
they secure and do they need new light
bulbs? Well lit areas have been shown to
reduce crime related activity.
Does your property properly display
your address: address numbers should
be large enough to be seen from the
street and the color of the numbers needs
to be different than the color of the home
or other background.
Trimming the bushes, trees and other
landscape is usually part of everyone’s
spring clean-up activities. Bushes and
trees around the house should be
trimmed away from the property exterior
walls and siding. This helps to stop bugs
and insects from having a bridge directly
to your home and allows air flow between
the walls and vegetation to help dry things
up after rainy and humid days. Branches
to the roof can cause damage to shingles,
gutters and is also a bridge for squirrels.
Interior improvements to help
safeguard your property. One item that
should not be put off or overlooked is the
upgrade of the electrical service to the
minimum of a 100 amp service. Some of
the homes in our area still only have a 60
amp fuse or breaker electrical service. This
is very limiting to home improvements
and usability. An upgrade to 100 amps
can be done by a licensed electrical
contractor. This upgrade will allow you to
use the home more effectively and allows
you to add more of those outside lighting
features.
Grass Cutting The Village of Park Forest
grass cutting ordinance has a height limit
of eight (8) inches. This includes the front,
side, and rear yards. Residents, landlords,
mortgage companies, management
companies, and agents for vacant
foreclosed homes will receive warning
notices when the grass has not been cut
and exceeds the eight (8) inch height limit.
Yard Waste and Raking Leaves:
Pick-up of yard waste began on April 1st
and will end on November 30, 2009, unless
unseasonably good weather extends the
grass cutting season. When leaves are
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raked from the yard they must be disposed
of properly. Village Streets Ordinance
[90-12] and Offenses Ordinance [66-103]
prohibit leaves from being raked into the
street. Village Health Ordinance [50-9(4)]
prohibits the accumulation of piles of
leaves and Village Fire Ordinance [42-46]
prohibits the burning of leaves.
Leaves must be contained in Star
Disposal yard waste bags or have a Star
Disposal sticker affixed to bags purchased
elsewhere. The disposal company will
pick-up properly stickered seasonal yard
waste on the regular garbage pick-up
day. Yard waste bags and stickers are
available at Village Hall, Star Disposal,
Steger True Value, and the Park Forest
Currency Exchange. Star Disposal also
rents 90 gallon yard waste carts. Call Star
Disposal for additional information at 708748-8381.
Star will pick up four bundles of branches
per week free of charge; no branch in the
bundle can be more than five feet long or
four inches in diameter. Bundles must be
tied.
THE COST OF SUMMER FUN
WITH TRAVEL
BLUES FEST
TRAVEL/PARKING
FREE
$10
WHITE SOX/CUBS GAME TICKET
TRAVEL/PARKING
$50
$10
CHICAGO’S LAKEFRONT
FIREWORKS DISPLAY JULY 3
TRAVEL/PARKING
MAIN
ST
TRAVE REET NIGH
L/PAR
TS
KING
FREE
SATUR
DAY A
F
REE
T
TRAVE
L/PAR CENTRAL P
$35
KING
ARK
FREE
$40
CENTR
AL PA
F
REE
RK FI
DISPL
REWOR
AY 4T
KS
$18
H OF
TRAVE
JULY
L/PAR
$10
KING
FREE
AQUA
CE
FREE
$8/STRIP
TRAVE NTER ADMI
L/PAR
SSION
KING
$10
FOR 1
$10
PARK
FORES
F
REE
T
$30
TRAVE
L/PAR ART FAIR
KING
$5
FREE
PANCA
KE DA
FREE
Y
(ALL
$236 TR YOU CAN
AVEL/
E
PARKI AT)
NG
$5
SCENI
C 5 A
F
REE
ND MO
TRAVE
RE
L/PAR
KING
$25
TOTAL
FREE
WISCONSIN DELLS GET AWAY
COST FOR 1 AT NOAH’S ARK
TRAVEL/PARKING
ART INSTITUTE
TRAVEL/PARKING
TASTE OF CHICAGO
TRAVEL/PARKING
RIDGE RUN 10K
TRAVEL/PARKING
TOTAL
THE C
OS
IN PA T OF SUMM
RK FO
ER FU
REST
N
FREE
$10
Thank You
(YOU
SAVE
$196)
13
$40
Mark Your Calendars for Great Events and Programs this Summer!
Main Street Nights
June 24th – August 5th
Downtown Park Forest
708-748-2005
Grab a blanket, pack a snack and position
yourself in the Park Forest Downtown
Village Green (Cunningham and
Main Streets) for seven FREE nights of
entertainment. Rain or Shine!
Performances last approximately 45-60
minutes. In case of rain, performances
will be moved to Dining on the Green,
349 Main St. Call our recorded message
at 708-283-5647 for weather related
changes or cancellations. For additional
information, call the Recreation office at
708- 748-2005.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24
7 p.m. - Pink Panthers
The Pink Panthers Double Dutch Team,
twice Gold Medalists of the international
Junior Olympic Games, open the 2009
Main Street Nights in high-energy style
and fun!
7:45 p.m. - Dave Rudolf’s
Beach Party
Take a musical cruise
with Dave Rudolf and
the Coconuts featuring
Dave’s original songs.
Dave’s concerts involve
an abundance of audience participation
including the limbo and hula hoops, all
set to tropical music.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1
7 p.m. - Fieldcrest
Local Downtown talent from Fieldcrest
School of Performing Arts kicks off the
evening showcasing the best from their
2009 performance.
7:45 p.m. - BBI
If a high energy party is what you’re
looking for, BBI is your band! BBI can span
the decades from ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s.
They can put down their hip hop side and
rock out.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8
7 p.m. - Ken Schultz
Ken uses his elastic,
comedic face to paint a
permanent smile on the
faces of everyone!
7:45 p.m. - “1969”
Celebrate the 40th anniversary of
Woodstock.1969’s music will take you
back, as you find yourself dancing and
singing along like its 1969 all over again.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
7 p.m. - Cold Blooded Creatures
Back by popular demand! Jim Nesci
entertains while educating the audience
about reptiles. See and touch 4 types of
reptilians.
7:45 p.m. - MuzicNet
The talented musicians of Park Forest’s
very own MuzicNet will perform smooth
jazz, Blues and Gospel.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 22
7 p.m. – Oba William King
The Poetic Storyteller, Oba William King,
reaches all ages and cultures through his
interactive presentations. Come be lifted
and inspired!
7:45 p.m. – Creole Stomp
Creole Stomp brings the excitement
of Louisiana Creole, Cajun and Zydeco
music to stages across North America.
Traditional Louisiana Cajun two-step,
reels and waltzes sizzle in the stew along
with Creole blues, mazurkas and zydecos.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
7 p.m. - Na’ama Rose
Join the Na’ama Rose Dance Center for
a foot stomping, finger-snapping multicultural dance experience. Enjoy some
of the authentic dances of Spain, Africa,
Ireland, and the Middle East.
7:45 p.m. - Sambatico
Sambatico brings you a taste of Brazil.
Their repertoire includes such favorites
as Fool on the Hill, Look of Love and
Scarborough. Fair as well as classic bossa
nova standards.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5
7 p.m. - Soda
Refreshing and new! Soda captures the
heart and soul of one of the most diverse
playlists. From Johnny Cash to Dave
Matthews, from Styx to John Mayer, this
band can do it all!
Dusk - “Wall-E” Movie
The highly acclaimed director of Finding
Nemo and the creative storytellers behind
Cars and Ratatouille transport you to a
galaxy not so far away for a new cosmic
comedy adventure about a determined
robot named Wall-E.
Film is PG rated
Run Time: 98 min.
What Brought Barack Obama to Park Forest in 2003?
Answer: The 4th of July Parade!
Every year thousands line the streets of
Park Forest for the Independence Day
Parade. It’s an event full of patriotism
and community pride! Before heading
to the streets to enjoy the fun, decorate
your home to help us celebrate our
Independence!
The Parade begins on Orchard Drive at
the Aqua Center traveling north and goes
west on Westwood. The parade then
continues on Westwood, to Lakewood
Blvd, for the final stretch. The parade
travels down Lakewood, past Central Park,
and heads back north on Orchard Drive—
finishing at the Aqua Center.
Following the parade, grab a blanket
and join the crowd at Central Park for
live music and one of the best fireworks
displays in the area.
Park Forest is a great place to be in the
summer!
Aqua Center Opening Day
Make a splash this summer and beat
the heat in Park Forest! The Aqua Center
will open for another summer of fun,
beginning Saturday, June 6th! Call or visit
the Recreation and Parks Department for
details on membership.
Jazz in the Park for Charity 2009
State Representative Al Riley will be
hosting Jazz in the Park for Charity 2009
at Bi-Centennial Park in Olympia Fields
on July 26, 2009. Jazz in the Park for
Charity 2009 was developed to benefit
not-for- profit organizations in our south
suburban region. Come and enjoy an
evening filled with food from local area
restaurants accompanied by live jazz
entertainment. Thousands of southland
residents have supported this event and
15
know it is an evening not to be missed. All
proceeds of Jazz in the Park for Charity
2009 will benefit the participating notfor-profit organizations. Grand Prairie
Services Foundation is serving as the fiscal
agent for the event. For more information
please call (708) 799-4364.
Tall Grass Art Film Series Continues
Tall Grass Arts
Association
is pleased to
announce
that, after a
short hiatus,
its art film
series
will
begin again.
Films will be shown on June 14 and July
19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Marcus Theatres,
1301 Hilltop Ave.,
Chicago Heights.
The Israeli film, “Waltz with Bashir” will be
shown on June 14. Directed by Ari Folman,
this animated documentary recounts
the filmmaker’s experiences as an Israeli
soldier serving in the army during the
Lebanese war of the 1980s. The film won
a Golden glove for Best Foreign Language
Film in 2008 and was nominated for an
Academy Award. The film is in Hebrew
with English subtitles.
“The Visitor” will be shown on July 19.
From Thomas McCarthy, the director of
First Annual “Chat n Chew” Held at Talala School
On Saturday, April 18th, PTO members of
Talala School hosted the first annual Chat
n Chew. The two-day event, aimed at
increasing community involvement, drew
a crowd of arts & crafts enthusiasts, kids
looking for fun and a host of others from
the area. All proceeds from the fundraiser
will help fund Field Day activities at the
elementary school later this year.
The work of Talala PTO members in
developing the Positive Connection
program, a program aimed to empower
children to explore and maintain
creativity while providing a more efficient
playground site, contributed to the school
receiving a $5,000 Lowe’s Toolbox for
Education Grant in May of 2008.
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“The Station Agent,” this film is the story of
a widowed professor who inadvertently
becomes entangled in the lives of an
immigrant couple he finds squatting in
his Manhattan apartment. The film is in
English.
Following each film, a discussion will be
held in the theater.
For additional information call the Tall
Grass Gallery at (708) 748-3377.
Com Ed Lays Out for Continued Work
Representatives from ComEd were in
attendance at Village Hall in February for
an update to Board Members regarding
recent upgrades made by the company.
ComEd reported the following work as
having been completed in Park Forest
during 2008:
• Replacement of an H-frame with one pad mounted switch gear
• Replacement of 2,300 feet of underground cable
• Replacement of one pole, one overhead transformer and 500 feet of overhead wire
Also during the Board meeting, ComEd
officials laid out plans for continued
upgrades in 2009, pledging to complete
additional projects in the Village by
December 31st, including:
• Replacement of an H-frame with one pad mounted switchgear
• Replacement of approximately 3,400 feet of existing
underground cable
• Installation of approximately 920 feet of new underground cable
In 2007, ComEd reported completion of the
following work in Park Forest:
• Replacement of two H-Frames with three pad mounted switchgear
• Installed 11,000 feet of new underground cable
• Installed arresters at various locations
• Installed fault indicators at
various locations
• Replacement of connections at various locations
• Reconductor three phase wires and replacement of cross arms at various locations
• Full cycle trim completed on circuits F2778, F2781, and F2797
Representatives from ComEd have briefed
Village Officials of ongoing efforts to
improve quality of service in Park Forest
at least twice a year since 2004.
ComEd began upgrades in Park Forest
in 2003 after frequent, and many times
lengthy, power outages raised concerns
amongst residents and Village Officials.
Since then, upgrades to service in Park
Forest have resulted in a reduced number
of outages being reported.
Toni Eberhardt, a representative with the
energy delivery company, says ComEd
will continue to work with the Village on
quality issues and will also continue to
provide periodic updates on progress.
YOUR AD IN “DISCOVER” REACHES
EVERY RESIDENT OF THE VILLAGE.
For more information on
sizes and rates call
(708) 283-5624.
17
Homes Sought for the
26th Annual House Tour
Work is beginning for the 26th Annual
Park Forest House Tour, set for Sunday,
October 4th. Sponsored by the League
of Women Voters of the Park Forest Area
and the Village of Park Forest, the tour
features homes with great remodeling
and decorating ideas. If you wish to
allow the House Tour committee to
consider your home, a neighbor’s or
a friend’s home in Park Forest as a
possible candidate for the House Tour,
please call League member Barbara
Moore at 708- 481-5251.
Security Alarm Permits
Due July 1st
If you have a Security Alarm, by Village
Ordinance (Chapter 34) you must
purchase a permit each year. Permits
will go on sale at the police department
and the Village Hall on Monday, June
1. If you have previously purchased
a permit, you will receive a renewal
application by mail. The fee for this
yearly permit is $20 for residences
and $35 for businesses. Call Kathy
Wellington at the Police Department
(708.748.4700) with questions about
the permit program. Permits must be
purchased by July 1. Not purchasing a
permit for your alarm can result in a $50
ticket being issued.
Will County 2009 Book Recycling and
Document Destruction Event
When: June 12 - 14, 9 am to 4:30 pm
Where: Joliet Park District’s
Pilcher Park Nature Center
2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet
Bring your unwanted books for recycling and take books for FREE! Document
destruction will also be offered. Bring your unwanted paper documents for
collection and destruction. Documents will be shredded at a recycling facility
in Chicago. An “Affidavit of Destruction” is available upon request.
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New Employees
Susan White,
Health Department
Evelyn Sterling,
Economic Development
Congratulations!
and welcome
to the
Village of
Park Forest.
Anthony Kindle,
Public Works
George Roback,
Public Works
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 2
PARK FOREST IL
CAR-RT
www.villageofparkforest.com
Mayor
John A. Ostenburg
Trustees
Mae Brandon
Bonita Dillard
Gary Kopycinski
Kenneth W. Kramer
Robert McCray
Georgia O’Neill
Manager
Tom Mick
Clerk
Sheila McGann
Local Customer
Park Forest, IL 60466