Winter 2010

IN THIS ISSUE

• The New Orchard Drive • Village Inks Deal with CN • Census 2010 MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Residents often pose challenges to me on a daily basis that everything works in One thing that folks often inquire about with questions such as, “Why doesn’t the concert for the public’s best interest. is our local system of public education. Village do something about that?” The For some reason, lots of people assume question is well intentioned, and the In Park Forest, some things have been that the Village has control over the questioner is sincere in wanting to know added so our residents get the best return schools. However, in Illinois – outside the why his or her municipality isn’t attacking on the tax dollar they invest in municipal city of Chicago – municipal government a particular issue. The problem is, the government. For example, years ago Village has no authority whatsoever over matter at hand very often is something officials decided that our community the public schools. School boards are that’s completely outside the jurisdiction would not have a separate park district elected as separate bodies and have sole of Village government. – with its own governing board and its responsibility for school operations, within own ability to collect taxes – but rather the guidelines of the state’s school code. Municipal government basically fulfills would create a parks department within four roles in its relationship to the citizenry. local government itself. This decision has Lots of our residents are unaware of it, saved money over the years because it but Park Forest is served by five separate (1) Governance. Local elected officials has eliminated unnecessary duplication of school districts. Residents of the far north are charged with the responsibility of costly bureaucracy. So while residents of end of the community are in Elementary writing ordinances and setting other some other communities may pay slightly School District 162; those in the middle legal standards that fall under the powers less in taxes to their city or town, when the section are in Elementary School District given to them by state statute and by amount that they pay to their park district 163; folks in the far mid-eastern section various court rulings over the years. is added, it often comes to more than what reside in Elementary School District 194; Furthermore, municipal government has Park Foresters pay. Will County residents are part of Unit the responsibility of employing trained School District 201-U; and virtually all of and competent persons who will carry out The same difference holds true regarding the Cook County portion of Park Forest is the enforcement of these ordinances. They fire protection districts that are found located within High School District 227. include our police officers, our various in many other municipalities. In those code enforcement staff members, etc. situations, local residents are paying taxes Sadly, however, only a handful of Park not only to their city or town, but also to Foresters have seats on the various school (2) Finance. Local elected officials have the local fire protection district. In Park boards that serve our Village. For persons the responsibility of setting tax amounts Forest, we include those services under the with genuine interest in improving our so sufficient funds are available for the Village umbrella and thereby again avoid schools, a good first step might be to performance of services that meet the unnecessary duplication. participate more fully in the school board public’s needs. A good portion of the funds And, in addition, Park Forest also provides elections held every couple of years by collected go to assuring public safety; both voting and possibly running for office. others go for amenities that residents some things that simply are not found in expect to find in their community; still other communities of our size. For example, the Aqua Center swimming complex is Local government is the portion of others go to provide an adequate quality governing closest to the public, but it is of life for citizens and their families. something uncommon in most of our surrounding communities; our municipally the part that’s most often misunderstood. (3) Services. In addition to providing for owned and operated indoor health Unlike state and federal government, public health and safety through the club and tennis facility is not the type of which is thoroughly explained to school availability of policemen, firefighters, facility present in most other towns; and children in civics classes, little instruction paramedics, etc., Village government our Health Department is unique in all of often is given to municipal government. also has the duty of assuring that public Chicagoland for a community of our size. Hopefully publications such as this one will roads are maintained, and that other vital help you gain a little better understanding services are in place. However, these amenities are things of what your Village government does and that residents of Park Forest have come how it operates. (4) Management. Nothing happens in a to enjoy. They are the “value-added” vacuum and certainly local government aspects of living in Park Forest. Sometimes John A. Ostenburg, Mayor cannot function properly without an residents will complain about what may effective system of management. Trained be lacking in our town, without giving full professionals are employed by the elected consideration to what we have that others officials as the persons who make sure don’t.

1 The New Orchard Drive

The ownership of streets can sometimes With that major arterial roadway project Discussed plans to the roadway include: be misunderstood. Rarely does it occur for finally in the rearview mirror, Public Works resurfacing of the street, implementation one to question which roads in town are Director Ken Eyer has now turned his of a middle turn lane, implementation of a actually roads of the town. attention to the next major street in need second turn lane at the corner of Orchard of improvement: Orchard Drive. and Lincoln Highway, intersection Park Forest is a place where not all roads improvements, and better designing are, in-fact, Village-owned. For years, Eyer says, Orchard Drive of drainage structures that often need resurfacing has been a discussion, and rebuilding. Take, for example, Western Avenue. for years the Village has looked to fund the project. Similar to complaints voiced With the environmental impact study For years, residents voiced their about Western Avenue prior to last year’s completed, the process for Orchard Drive displeasure with Western Avenue—the work, Orchard Drive has also prompted its construction is now entering the second railroad crossing, the poor flow of traffic, share of similar phone calls to the Public of three stages. The federal government the occasional pothole that made for a Works office. will now review the plans, and, if approved, bumpy ride. Many questioned why swift the design work will be prepared and the change and upgrades were failing to “The road has a lot of potholes and it’s project opened up to bids. happen. pretty deteriorated,” says Eyer. Eyer is hopeful that the design process In addition to the road needing can be completed by the fall of 2010, with The answer: Western Avenue is a road resurfacing, motorists have also voiced construction beginning in 2011 or 2012. owned by the State of Illinois, not by the concern about the driving lanes, which Village of Park Forest. can sometimes make for a too close Although a lengthy process, Eyer says for comfort driving experience around improvements to Orchard will have many While a stretch of the road passes through curves. The backup of traffic at the benefits to the community. Park Forest, that portion of Western corner of Orchard and Lincoln Highway, Avenue has no Village ownership. Thus, for motorists turning westbound onto “Now that Canadian National train traffic in order for major changes to be made Lincoln Highway from Orchard, has also is going to increase, Orchard is the only to Western Avenue, Village Officials had become problematic. street with an underpass for miles. So if to remain in close contact with those there’s any railroad problems, it’s a quick responsible for its upkeep: the Illinois This past year, Eyer and his Public Works route for emergency vehicles. So that Department of Transportation (IDOT). Team sat down with engineering raises the importance of that route. consultant group Baxter & Woodman to After several years of talks with IDOT, this discuss ideas for improving Orchard Drive. Since it’s also our main road in the Village, past winter the stretch of Western Avenue that the Village is responsible for, as well as passing through Park Forest was finally The consultants first began by the one that comes into our DownTown, it widened and resurfaced. Additionally, the conducting an environmental impact needs to have a much better appearance CN railroad track crossing was upgraded study to determine how changes to the to attract business and more economic for a smoother ride for motorists, and road would affect the Village, as well as development.” a pedestrian crossing of the tracks also producing preliminary drawings of the implemented. work.

2 Park Forest Information is just a Click Away...

...on your television set...

Have you tuned into channel 4 (on Comcast) or channel 99 (on AT&T) lately? There, you can learn about upcoming events and programs as well as find out important news alerts. Sitting on the couch wondering when the last yard waste collection date is in Park Forest? Who will be performing at Main Street Nights? How about when the Scenic 5 and More will be held? These kinds of seasonal updates you can find on your local cable access channel. Be sure to tune in!

...on your computer...

As a Park Forest resident, you are encouraged to check out the Village’s website frequently to stay up to speed on happenings in town. The Village’s website has a host of offerings beneficial to Park Foresters: an events calendar, departmental pages, press releases, online payment options for water bills, details on upcoming programs, archived Board Meetings, weather, e-mail newsletter sign-ups…the list goes on! Visit www.vopf.com today and be sure to check back several times a month for new information!

...on your mobile.

Did you just update your status on Facebook? Just sent a tweet on Twitter? Did you know the Village of Park Forest has pages on both sites? See numerous exclusive, never before seen images on our Facebook page, and follow the Village on Twitter. Be one of the first to get breaking news, including events, programs, even job postings! Many newer model cell phones allow you to get immediate updates from both sites. Some residents who planned on attending the annual 4TH of July fireworks show in Central Park this year were saved a trip when they received the breaking news of the shows cancellation posted online. Become a fan of Park Forest on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

3 2010 Census: IT’S IN OUR HANDS An Introduction to the 2010 Census - Counting Everyone Once-and Only Once-and In the Right Place

The foundation of our American does not ask about the legal status of in history, the 2010 Census asks for name, democracy is dependent on fair and respondents in any of its surveys and gender, age, race, ethnicity, relationship, equitable representation in Congress. In census programs. To help ensure the and whether you own or rent your order to achieve an accurate assessment nation’s increasingly diverse population home. It takes only about 10 minutes of the number and location of the people can answer the questionnaire accurately for the average household to complete. living within the nation’s borders, the U.S. and completely, about 13 million bilingual Questions about how we live as a nation— Constitution mandates a census of the Spanish/English forms will be mailed to our diversity, education, housing, jobs and population every 10 years. housing units in neighborhoods identified more—are now covered in the American as requiring high levels of Spanish Community Survey, which is conducted The census population totals determine assistance. Additionally, questionnaires every year throughout the decade and An which states gain or lose representatives in Spanish, Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Introduction to the 2010 Census Counting in Congress. It also determines the amount Vietnamese and Russian—as well as Everyone Once—and Only Once—and In of state and federal funding communities language guides in 59 languages—will the Right Place replaces the Census 2000 receive over the course of the decade. 2010 be available on request. long-form questionnaire. Census data will directly affect how more than $3 trillion is allocated to local, state Recruiting Census Workers Responses to the 2010 Census and tribal governments over the next 10 By 2010, there will be an estimated 310 questionnaire are required by law. All years. In order for this funding allocation million people residing in the United responses are used for statistical purposes to be accomplished fairly and accurately, States. Counting each person is one only, and all are strictly confidential. the goal of the decennial census is to of the largest operations the federal count everybody, count them only once, government undertakes. For example, For more information, visit the 2010 and count them in the right place. The the Census Bureau will recruit nearly Census website at www.census.gov/2010. facts gathered in the census also help 3.8 million applicants for 2010 Census shape decisions for the rest of the decade field operations. Of these applicants, the about public health, neighborhood Census Bureau will hire about 1.4 million improvements, transportation, education, temporary employees. Some of these senior services and much more. employees will be using GPS-equipped hand-held computers to update maps and Reaching an Increasingly ensure there is an accurate address list for Diverse Population the mailing of the census questionnaires. The goal of the 2010 Census is to count all residents living in the United States 10 Questions, 10 Minutes to Complete on April 1, 2010. The U.S. Census Bureau With one of the shortest questionnaires

United States Census 2010

IT’S IN OUR HANDS www.census.gov/2010census

4 Village Inks Deal with Canadian National

The Village of Park Forest closed on a with the STB, state and federal legislators, in January, the Village took a closer look voluntary mitigation agreement (VMA) as well as CN officials included: at the interest of CN to implement a rail with Canadian National rail company in switch--in hopes of finding some upside October. • Traffic delays, congestion and adverse for the Village and its residents. impacts to Westwood Drive, Orchard The two sides had been in negotiations Drive and North Street A package deal between the Village and since Canadian National announced plans • Noise abatement needs for Canadian National was finally agreed to increase traffic along the 195 miles of adjacent homeowners upon August 27th. The six agreements track purchased from former owner Elgin, • Adverse impacts on Village economic that make up the deal include: Joliet & Eastern (EJ & E) in January. development efforts at Norwood Shopping Plaza, and Park Forest • Voluntary Mitigation Agreement “After lengthy deliberations, the Village of Business Park (total value: $4,225,000) Park Forest has settled upon a package deal • Impacts on emergency response • Parking Lot Reconstruction Agreement which we believe is in the best possible operations (total value: $1,320,000) interests of Park Forest residents. With the • Bridge Overpass Ownership Transfer pending increase of rail traffic through Objections to the sale of the EJ&E to Agreement (total value: $1,165,000) Park Forest’s corporate boundaries, issues Canadian National did not result in any • Real Estate Sales Agreement and related to safety, emergency response altering of the transaction between the Option Agreement operations, economic development and two rail companies. The STB, a federal (total value: $645,000) environmental impacts such as noise and agency whose jurisdiction trumps that of • Right of Entry Agreement traffic congestion have been addressed Park Forest, granted approval of the sale • Through the sale of 5.778 acres of land within the package of agreements on January 31st, 2009. to CN, the package deal helps mitigate with Canadian National. Park Forest Village concerns with the rail looks forward to working with CN on Prior to the transaction being finalized, company’s acquisition of the former the implementation of all components Canadian National approached the EJ&E infrastructure and its impacts on contained within the settlement Village with interest in purchasing a the Village. It also provides funds to package,” said Mayor John Ostenburg. parcel of Village-owned land. The land, help offset property value impacts for located within close proximity of the residents. As part of the Surface Transportation commuter lot at Hickory Street and Board’s environmental impact analysis Homan Avenue (including a small portion The deal, totaling $7.355 million dollars, is for the CN acquisition, Village Officials of the commuter lot itself), would allow the largest in Park Forest’s 60 year history. submitted numerous points of protest on CN, what they believed to be, an ideal rail behalf of Park Forest and the perceived switch from the east/west bound EJ&E impacts to the community prior to the sale. lines to the north/south CN bound rails. Concerns addressed in correspondences After the sale of the line to CN was finalized

“After lengthy deliberations, the Village of Park Forest settled upon a package deal which we believe is in the best possible interests of Park Forest Residents.”

5 More on the Deal

Park Forest will maintain 80% of the mitigation agreement with Park Forest agreement should contact the Village revenue stream for the Homan/Hickory achieves important objectives for Manager’s Office at 708-748-1129. commuter parking lot (pictured above), both parties and we hope it marks the Additional information is available by which has been repaved and re-striped, beginning of a strong partnership.” visiting the Village’s website www.vopf.com. and will also feature new lighting and fencing. Additionally, monies have Crews are expected to complete the been contributed to further emergency majority of the commuter lot overhaul response operations, training and before the end of 2009. Work on the “CN’s voluntary equipment as well as Park Forest implementation of the CN rail switch is mitigation agreement economic development efforts. set to begin in the coming weeks with the connection projected to reach completion with Park Forest The package also provides funds for a by the end of 2010. As rail construction achieves important public attraction vision which will include unfolds, the public park (complete with construction of a train viewing platform, a rail caboose), a viewing platform and objectives for both rail car feature and large-scale mural interpretive rail history signage will be parties and we hope it which may draw latent tourism benefits constructed and in place by late-2010. A marks the beginning of to Park Forest and the Old Plank Road program is currently being developed Trail. by Village Officials which will allow for a strong partnership.” settlement funding to be passed on to Finally, the deal facilitates the transfer of those residential properties in Park Forest bridge/overpass ownership over Orchard which abut the rail line. Periodic updates Drive to CN, with the rail company on rail and commuter lot construction, expected to paint the structure in the noise mitigation, rail park development near future. and other associated items will be posted to the Village’s website. Jim Vena, CN senior vice-president, Southern Region, said: “CN’s voluntary Individuals with questions regarding the

6 Boards and Commissions Workshop

Mayor John Ostenburg, the Village Board residents to be a part of important of Trustees and a number of Village Staff citizen input on issues related to the met with the Chairpersons and Vice- establishment of policy and/or day-to-day Chairpersons for many of the Village’s operations of Village governance. Boards volunteer Boards and Commissions and Commission involvement fosters in September. The session covered great relationships amongst residents important topics such as the functions of and furthers individual and community the positions of Chair, Vice-Chair, Trustee leadership. Liaison and Staff Liaison. Additionally, the group discussed the logistics in For more information on how to become establishing and conducting Board/ involved on a Board or Commission Commission meetings. to make your voice heard and make a difference in Park Forest, visit the Village There are currently over 100 Park Foresters Manager’s Office, located on the second serving on Boards and Commissions. floor of Village Hall, or call 708-283-5605.

Numerous Boards and Commissions exist in the Village of Park Forest--allowing Boards and Commissions Recognition Dinner

Mayor John Ostenburg and the Village Board of Trustees presided over a recognition dinner at Dining on the Green in August. The event honored residents serving on volunteer Boards and Commissions, which provide valuable insight and service to the Village Board throughout the year. Close to 60 volunteers attended the event and mingled with fellow volunteers as well as Village Officials.

Chocolate and Wine Tasting Pleases the Palette

The Village’s first Wine & Chocolate Tasting that many of the attendees had visited on August 14th was a rousing success. 109 either Tall Grass Gallery or ITC. attendees from 15 communities took part in the festivities at Tall Grass Arts Gallery The Economic Development and and the Foyer of Illinois Theatre Center. Planning Department would like to thank The attendees enjoyed fine Gayete’s the new Park Forest Ambassadors for chocolates (Lansing, Illinois based their assistance with the event. chocolate maker) compliments of Calvary United Protestant Church (Park Forest); Check out exclusive images from this wine donated by Abbruzzi Distributors event by visiting the Village of Park (Chicago Heights) and jazz music played Forest’s Facebook page! by a talented trio. Local vendors included Tastefully Simple and the Pampered Chef. Flowers were provided by Design’d to Go Florist (Park Forest). It was the first time

7 The Village of Park Forest is looking for Boards and Commissions Application residents interested in making a difference in the community to serve on a board or NAME ______commission. Select one of the following areas and apply today to offer your leadership and expertise! ADDRESS ______

Beautification Award Committee TELEPHONE: Home ______Work ______

Cable Communications Commission E-MAIL: ______Economic Development Advisory Group

Environment Commission Years in Village: ______

Equal Employment Opportunity I wish to be considered for appointment to the ______Review Board board or commission.

Fair Housing Review Board Training and Education: Housing Authority ______Human Relations Commission ______Plan Commission ______Police and Fire Commission

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board Experience: ______Senior Citizens Advisory Commission ______Youth Commission ______Zoning Board of Appeal

Why interested: Village of Park Forest ______350 Victory Drive • Park Forest, IL 60466 ______708-748-1112 • www.vopf.com ______

Please indicate evenings you are available for meetings: ______

It is the policy of the Village Manager that persons on Boards and Commissions of the Village and/or their relatives are not eligible for employment by the Village while serving on a board or commission. Also not eligible to purchase real estate from the Village.

8 New Signage Coming Soon to Lincoln Highway

Drivers passing the intersection of Lincoln and programming, the sign will serve Highway (Route 30) and Orchard Drive as another way to promote Park Forest will get some new scenery next year. businesses to passersby.

A new LED message board will be erected, “The original planners of our community replacing the worn message board that put the major commercial activity right currently stands at the site. The structure smack in the middle--as far away from the will be 30 feet high and include 6 major roadways as you could possibly get permanent panels, which will be available it. So, if you’re going to have commercial for purchase to local businesses looking activity, (you) can’t rely just simply on to enhance awareness. local traffic, (you) have to be able to attract people from other areas. And how The Village’s Economic Development and do you get people from other areas to Planning Department, after budgeting come into your downtown? You have to since 2007 to have the new signage put up some signs to tell them to come installed, is excited to see a state-of-the- this way to get to this store or that store,” art communications tool come to Park said Mayor John Ostenburg. Forest. All-Right Signs of Steger will build the “It will really give Park Forest a fresh, sign, which is expected to operate 18 modern look,” said Director of Economic hours a day. Development and Planning Hildy Kingma. The current message board was installed In addition to communicating important in the mid 80’s. Village messages, like upcoming events

9 Fire and Police Memorial Officially Unveiled A new Police and Fire Memorial was from Fire Chief Bob Wilcox after a cellular volumes about a community when officially unveiled at a dedication company installed a cell phone tower just everyone makes the effort to pay tribute ceremony Saturday, October 10th. The site, outside the Fire House last year. Wilcox to individuals who go unnoticed every located just east of the Fire Department envisioned the tower also serving as day. And this is a way to remember those on Indianwood Boulevard, honors retired a flag pole which would fly a custom- folks for their contributions throughout police and fire personnel, as well as those made Garrison size American flag at the the years,” Wilcox said. who have perished in the line of duty. site. Once the pole was in place, Wilcox followed up by sketching an idea for a The flagstone used to erect the structure Close to 100 people turned out for the memorial site to be constructed just steps was transplanted from the former ceremony, including the family of the only from the pole. Now that his vision has Marshall Field’s building in Park Forest. Park Forest firefighter to be killed in the become a reality, Wilcox gives credit to line of duty, Captain Adolph H. (Shorty) everyone involved in the process. Images from this event can be found on Pfeifer. the Village of Park Forest’s Facebook page. “There isn’t a person that hasn’t touched The vision for the Memorial site came this project is some way. It speaks Fire Department Receives Oxygen Recovery Masks for Pets The Park Forest Fire Department recently to smoke inhalation. In most states, received a donation that will help emergency responders are unequipped prevent pets from falling victim to smoke to deal with the crisis. The donation of inhalation due to fire. these specially designed and potentially lifesaving animal oxygen mask sets will Invisible Fence of Chicagoland donated enable Park Forest Rescue Squads to oxygen recovery masks for pets, and efficiently administer oxygen to a stricken conducted equipment training sessions animal. and demonstrations with the department. One recovery kit was donated to the “We want to thank Invisible Fence for station and contains three pet oxygen their generosity and believe that these masks in small, medium and large sizes. kits will help us save more pets; we can all recall a fire from the past where these “We hope that by donating oxygen mask masks would have helped save a pet,” said kits that we will contribute to saving more Deputy Chief Bruce Ziegle. pets and hopefully protect pet owners that may risk their own life to save a pet For more information about the Invisible in a fire,” said Jack Miltz, owner, Invisible Fence® Brand animal recovery mask Fence of Chicagoland. donation program, please contact Kristin Rogers, Donation Coordinator, at 440-729- It is estimated that in 2006, more than 1780 x126 or [email protected]. 40,000 pets died in fires; most succumbed

10 Jon Mannino Named Officer of the Year On Sunday, November 15th, Officer Jon Mannino was honored by the Park Forest Police Department with the award of Officer of the Year. Officer Mannino has been with the Park Forest Police Department since August of 2003; the last 3 ½ years as a Police Officer after serving as the Village’s first Community Service Officer.

2009 Citizen Police and Fire Academy Graduates Officer Mannino is regarded as one who consistently looks beyond routine Another class has graduated from the exercises utilizing Department props. traffic citations and investigates for Park Forest Citizen Police & Fire Academy. other types of criminal activity. This The graduates of the program met for 2 knack for criminal apprehension The academy was developed in hours every Thursday night for ten weeks. resulted in the removal of many response to public interest in obtaining The program is free to those 18 years or criminals and would-be criminals a better knowledge of the operations older who live or work in Park Forest. A from wrong doing in Park Forest. and procedures of the Police and member of this year’s graduating class is Fire Departments. Classes are taught Village Trustee Robert McCray. Officer Mannino is described as being by Park Forest Police Officers and self-motivated and one who makes Firefighters, as well as other department Exclusive images of this class, as they quality arrests. He is tactically sound personnel, who lecture and perform completed the 10-week program, can when responding to calls, never demonstrations on the different aspects be found on the Village of Park Forest’s putting himself or others at risk. of both departments and operations. Facebook page! Officer Mannino is firm, yet fair with These classes are designed to improve people when handling any type of public understanding and community situation. awareness, as well as to encourage crime prevention, fire prevention and safety. A true team player, Officer Mannino’s The Police curriculum of topics are Crime professionalism and dedication to Scene Investigation, shooting scenarios duty recently earned him a transfer in the Police indoor shooting range, to the Investigations Division as a tour of facilities, ride-a-longs and hands member of the S.T.A.N.D. U.P. Team. on participation in demonstrations Jon Mannino is the brother of Park of emergency operations. Included Forest Commander Chris Mannino. in the Fire Department topics are an overview of Department apparatus and equipment, a facility tour, proper use of self-contained breathing apparatus, proper fire hose operations and training

11 Time Capsule Discovered after 37 Years Be a Good Neighbor in Aqua Center Wall Street Parking After Snowfall A reminder to residents: The Village With construction work underway at by cement was revealed. Trustee Brandon prohibits parking on posted streets the Park Forest Aqua Center, the historic removed the jar from the wall while all after 2” of snow fall. This includes all facility is again being updated to better were eager to learn the contents of the courts and circles and continues until serve the community. But before crews container. the accumulation of ice and snow has began to demolish the building that been removed. for years housed the concession stand, Inside the jar were items dating back Garbage Container Pick-up Recreation and Parks Director John almost 40 years: an Aqua Center brochure, Garbage containers can be placed at Joyce had a plan to investigate reports an Aqua Center staff identification card, the curb as early as 2 p.m. on the day from former staff members that within a pair of children’s sunglasses, a silver before pick-up. Containers should be one of the concrete blocks of the lifeguard’s whistle and numerous other retrieved by 10 p.m. on pick-up day. building was a time capsule. bits and pieces of history from the Park Forest Aqua Center in 1972. Illegal Dumping On Saturday October 3rd, Director Joyce, It is against IEPA regulations and accompanied by Mayor John Ostenburg, View images of the discovery as it the law to dump anything and Trustee Mae Brandon, Trustee Georgia unfolded by visiting the Village of Park especially contaminants into the street side storm sewer inlets. These O’Neill, Trustee Robert McCray and Park Forest’s Facebook page! contaminants will be conveyed to Forest Historical Society President Jerry the natural water ways which pollute Shnay, headed to the Aqua Center to the environment and make their way discover if the tale of the time capsule into the ground water which is the was simply a hoax or indeed a historical Village’s water source. treasure concealed in cement. If you see any resident or person With hammers in tow, Board Members discharging or dumping any type of identified a location in the wall where fluid or solids into the street side storm construction crews believe the capsule sewers, please call the Department of may be. After repeatedly striking hefty Public Works at 708-503-7702 and the Police Department at 708-748-4700 blows to the wall, a glass jar surrounded immediately! 12 Park Forest Public Library Revitalization Efforts Adult Winter Reading Program 2010 Underway at the Park Forest Public Library Reading Around the World celebration. Then you can pack your bag Stop by the library to pick up your and grab your passport for a winter filled Despite the many changes the library passport to reading! Adult Winter Reading with exciting adventures. Discover hidden has experienced over the last six Program will begin December 19, and nature sights across the nation, take a trip decades, it has been almost 40 years continues through February 20. Be part through the outback, and solve mysteries since the last major structural or of our new travelling book club and win in exotic places. Sign up starts now! design changes have occurred. Now prizes for reading. that the needs of the community have Day of Service outgrown the current facilities, the Books will be available at the Patron Saturday, January 16 TBA Services check-out desk. Children and their family can give back to Library Board, Director and Staff have our community – call for details. worked tirelessly to find solutions to Travelling Book Club meet the challenges faced on a daily January 5 at 9 am World Culture Club basis. In spring of 2008, the Library Board Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky Saturday, January 23 at 2pm met with Innovative Design Concepts, Breakfast treats from France will be served. Tired of winter? Join us as we visit Australia Inc., a Frankfort-based design firm with and the Outback. Learn about the culture, whom the Village of Park Forest had Travelling Book Club experience the music, taste the food. All previously worked with. Chris Bakutis February 2 at 9 am ages are welcome. consulted with the Board in order to Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto design a fullscale renovation project Urrea. Breakfast treats from Mexico will that includes remodeling of the entire be served. main floor of the library. In January Festival of Flavors 2009, the Park Forest Village Board February 20 at 2 pm of Trustees met jointly with the Park We will celebrate the end of our Winter Forest Library Board to discuss terms of Reading Program with delicious treats financing the renovation project. The from around the world. Prizes will be Did you Know? library currently has sufficient funds awarded to our top three readers. Freedom Hall’s Nathan Manilow Theatre to cover the cost of the renovation has all new seats? The original 22” seats, project, which means no taxpayer Children’s Programs installed in 1976, have been replaced with dollars will be used to help finance the larger, more comfortable seating! The improvements. “Read Around the World” old seats were removed in October with Saturday, December 19 at 1pm the new seats taking 10 days to install. Be Our library-wide winter reading program sure to experience great performances at kicks off today with a multicultural holiday Freedom Hall this winter!

13 Mark Your Calendars for Great Events and Programs this Season!

Freedom Hall Funkadesi Abraxas Nathan Manilow Theatre, presenting the Saturday, February 20, 2010 Saturday, April 10, 2010 Performing Arts for 33 Years 8:00 p.m. $23 8:00 p.m. $23 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest, IL The Chicago Reader’s 2008 “Best World A musical tribute to Carlos Santana Box Office: 708-747-0580 Music Group” fuse Latin, African, and covering five decades of Santana hits. Fax: 708-503-7737 contemporary funk into an uplifting Inspired by the incredible intensity of www.freedomhall.org show! The 5-Time Winner of The Chicago his music, Abraxas shares a passion Music Awards, FUNKADESI is capturing for recreating the electrifying sounds Join us in Freedom Hall’s intimate 287 seat the attention of the U.S. and the rest of of Carlos Santana. Audiences, without Nathan Manilow Theatre, now with all the globe. Funkadesi’s one-world sound, exception, have been awed by the new seats! You can’t beat the convenience roots-watering vision, and positive vibe authentic Santana sound that Abraxas of great entertainment in your own back make the band a unique and compelling delivers during their stunning shows. With yard. Invite your friends and family to Park musical force. Abraxas, it’s all there: the propulsive Latin Forest and beautiful Nathan Manilow This performance is sponsored by J. Murray & percussion, the fiery lead guitar work, the Theatre, “where every seat is a great seat” Associates and US Bank Park Forest. “groove” that connects to the soul of the for music, theatre, comedy, senior and audience. children’s performances. Call the box This performance is sponsored by Baxter & Woodman office for detailed information and group Consulting Engineers and SouthtownStar. discounts.

MAIN SERIES Windham Hill Winter Solstice Concert Saturday, December 12, 2009 8:00 p.m. $25 Enjoy the talents of Barbara Higbie and Switchback Samite as they illuminate your winter Saturday, March 13, 2010 evening with cool rhythms of the snow 8:00 p.m. $23 covered north, the vibrant winters of Original Americana, traditional Celtic, Africa, and the awe inspiring beauty of plus a few nods to genres off the beaten the sky with this multi-media musical path delivered by two excellent musicians CHILDREN’S SERIES performance. Samite of Uganda is a world- who create a full-band sound. Superb Animal Tales & Dinosaur Scales renowned musician/composer/vocalist songwriting and harmonies reflect Friday, April 16, 2010 whose recordings have topped the World an uncommon grasp on the roots of 7:00 p.m. $7 Music Charts. Barbara Higbie is a Grammy American music, taking the traditional Geared to younger audience’s interest nominated multi-instrumentalist/vocalist. into the present. Bassist/vocalist Martin and fascination with animal characters, Windham Hill Winter Solstice is sure to be McCormack and guitarist/mandolinist this presentation gives the little ones a great winter concert! Brian FitzGerald have been performing plenty of opportunities to sing and play This performance is sponsored by J. Murray & together for 23 years and have released 11 along with the pros. Stories include a Associates and SouthtownStar. albums to date and have been described fable about a lion and a cloud, adventure as “breath-taking scenery for your ears!” of a rabbit in pursuit of carrots, trials of a The Irish Music Association has lauded dog’s life, and pros and cons of owning a Switchback as Top Duo for 2008. dinosaur. This performance is sponsored by J. Murray & This performance is sponsored by Homewood-Star Associates and SouthtownStar. Disposal, Inc.

14 Girls Shoot for Success

SENIOR SERIES On Saturday September 26, the to show the importance of promoting Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Band Recreation and Parks Department held a healthy lifestyle through athletics, Tuesday, February 2, 2010 the 2nd Annual “Girls Shoot for Success” positive life choices, nutrition and the 11:00 a.m. $8 basketball clinic at the Recreation Center. importance of setting goals. A healthy With eight albums and over two decades Participants, ages 9 to 14, were treated to lunch followed the activities, as an added performing around the world, this high- sessions by Recreation Supervisor Kevin bonus. More information on upcoming energy Dixieland show band has a unique Adams, Coach Eric Armstrong and Team programs for youth can be found by style of music with a contemporary feel Xpress AAU, Coach Jonnie Bass and the visiting the Recreation and Parks area that appeals to all ages. Dixieland jazz to Rich East Lady Rockets, and Coach Jeff of the Village’s website, or by calling swing, blues, big band tunes presented in Boyd and the Prairie State College Lady 708-748-2005. a most entertaining fashion! Pioneers. This free event was designed

The Rat Pack Jazz Quartet Tuesday, March 9, 2010 11:00 a.m. $8 Chicago’s crooner, Frank Lamphere and an ultra-swinging jazz band, perform great renditions of Frank, Dean, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennet, and more, with some of the hottest Village Receives New Jolly Trolley Bus jazzy instrumentals anywhere! Medleys of Sinatra and Dean Martin with a few Elvis Park Forest has a new Jolly Trolley bus operating the latest buses with lifts for tunes thrown in to warm up a winter’s day. with four wheelchair lifts for disabled the disabled. Rich Township has always residents. had an excellent relationship with Pace. Megon McDonough, “Her Way”, This makes our acquisition of safe, An Interesting Bunch of Girls Rich Township Supervisor Al Riley modern buses and equipment easier Tuesday, April 6, 2010 recently showed the new bus to Park than it might be for other jurisdictions.” 11:00 am $10 Forest Board Members in front of the She brought down the house last year, Village Hall. For more information about the Megon McDonough is back - Her Way — Jolly Trolley or to reserve a trip, call An Interesting Bunch of Gals — highlights The new Pace bus replaces an older 708-748-4433. some of the most prolific and memorable model with only two wheelchair lifts. female singers of the last 60 years. The Two Jolly Trolley buses operate in Park stage is set for a fabulously engaging and Forest Mondays through Fridays. Rich ultra-amusing morning of entertainment Township operates the bus service, with the powerhouse ensemble, Big City which is available to all Park Forest Jazz. residents, regardless of age. The township acquires the buses through Pace. An average 1,700 riders per month use the bus service.

“This is intergovernmental collaboration at its best,” Riley said. “Rich Township has kept the transit service tradition of the Park Forest Jolly Trolley alive, while

15 New Gazebo Commemorates Lincoln Highway’s History

The new Lincoln Highway interpretative gazebo is now in place at the northeast corner of the 211th Street Metra parking lot. This gazebo is part of a federal grant project sponsored by the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. Interpretive panels have been installed inside the gazebo, which describe the history of the Lincoln Highway in Illinois.

Village Adopts Vacant Building Ordinance

The rise in the number of foreclosed in the Ordinance is an annual $200 their properties. Vacant properties pose houses and buildings across the country registration fee to help cover the costs public safety problems and can also lead has resulted in numerous properties that for the Village to monitor, inspect, and to criminal activity. are left empty and vacant. These homes re-inspect the property routinely. The and buildings are frequently retaken yearly fee will also act as an incentive The Ordinance will require owners to by banks and large financial and real for building owners to maintain their maintain homes so that viable properties estate institutions that have little to no buildings. are not allowed to deteriorate and connection to the town in which they the value of adjacent properties is not are located-- making enforcement of Property owners who do not meet the adversely impacted. building and sanitary codes difficult. registration requirements will not be Furthermore, many times homes sit eligible for a Village real estate transfer Many other municipalities across the empty for months, or years, awaiting tax stamp and unpaid fees will be a lien country have adopted such ordinances, foreclosure sale, often creating an on their property. In addition, a person including in Illinois, the cities of Chicago, unattractive public nuisance. found to be in violation of the Ordinance Champaign, Evanston, Kankakee, Normal will be subject to a minimum fine of $100 and Waukegan, and the Villages of Alsip, The Village recently adopted a Vacant per day per violation to a maximum of Bellwood, Hinsdale, Oak Forest and Building Ordinance to provide an $750. Riverdale. additional way to address problematic housing in the Village, in effort to help Property owners will be required to Residents with questions about the minimize eyesores and preserve quality submit to the Village a vacant building Vacant Building Ordinance should of life for residents. plan, which would include the owner’s call the Building Department at plan to maintain and secure the 708-503-7703. View the Ordinance The Ordinance requires all property property and a plan of action, with a by visiting www.vopf.com, or watch owners, including lenders, trustees time schedule, identifying the date the video of Village Officials discussing the and service companies, to register and building will be habitable and occupied Ordinance at June 22nd’s Board meeting properly maintain vacant properties or offered for occupancy or sale. The plan by accessing the Board Meeting Archive as defined in the Ordinance. Properties is subject to Village approval. Owners also found at www.vopf.com. must be maintained in accordance with must maintain property insurance for the relevant sanitary codes, building their properties while they remain codes and local regulations concerning vacant and must notify the Village of any “The ordinance will external and/or visible maintenance. changes in their registration, including help improve the a change in ownership, within 15 days. The Ordinance will provide a point of The Ordinance will be enforced by the quality of life in contact in case the property becomes a Village’s Department of Community neighborhoods by public nuisance, and may encourage the Development. owner to devise a timely rehabilitation holding vacant owners plan by imposing a registration The ordinance will help improve the responsible for requirement with the Village for an quality of life in neighborhoods by their properties.” owner’s vacant building. Also included holding vacant owners responsible for

16 Picnic Permits

Picnic permits for Somonauk, Central park permit. Please have an alternate (Method of payment - cash, check, and Logan pavilions for 2010 dates will picnic date in mind in case your first money order, Visa, Mastercard, Discover be issued beginning Saturday, February choice has already been taken. and American Express.) 6, 2010 at Village Hall (350 Victory Dr., Park Forest, IL). To complete the permit we will need: 2010 Fee Schedule for 6-hour period* • Date of your picnic. Groups of 99 or less...... $ 75 At 9 a.m. interested park users will be • Start and ending time (including your Groups of 100-199...... $115 invited to place their names in the permit set-up and take-down time). Groups of 200 or more...... $175 lottery. Permits will then be issued in the • Number of people attending. *$5 for each additional hour over six (per pavilion). order names are picked (one picnic date • Name, address and phone number of per person - no phone orders). responsible party (must be an adult). Picnic permits do not include reserved time on ball fields or tennis courts. Permit Procedure: Once the lottery is Following the lottery, permits will be Residents with questions should contact completed we will call your name to taken on a first come basis. Full payment the Recreation and Parks Department at come to the counter to complete your must accompany the reservation. 708-748-2005. Park Forest Crime Numbers Decline in 2009 - Police Chief Attributes Decline to ‘Crime-Free Housing Ordinance’ A national statistical report shows that residents who are identified as having of landlords and tenants in Park Forest. crime in the Village of Park Forest declined been engaged in criminal activity. Beilke will also conduct safety inspections by 9.9 percent during the most recent on rental properties. study period. Additionally, the Park Forest In recent months, the Police Department Police Department received 2,892 fewer has continued to be proactive in Beilke says the Police Department calls for service during the past 12-month addressing problematic rental properties is currently pursuing 4 properties in period, a 16.5 percent decline. by creating a position specifically for the violation of the ordinance, and will enforcement of the Crime-Free Housing continue to actively pursue those whose Park Forest Chief of Police Tom Fleming Ordinance. actions threaten the quality of life in the reported at a recent meeting of the Park Village. Forest Village Board that he believes the Detective Todd Beilke was named to decline is directly attributable to the the post and will provide 6 hour classes More information on the Crime-Free Village’s Crime-Free Housing Ordinance, to landlords—informing them on the Housing Ordinance can be found by which went into effect March 1, 2008. The Ordinance, how to properly conduct visiting the Village’s website at ordinance gives the Village the power background checks on perspective www.vopf.com. to order the eviction of rental property tenants and conveying the expectations

17 Park Forest House Safe Disposal Program

Tour Update The Park Forest Health Department and the Environment Commission have partnered to provide the following information on the proper disposal of Mark your calendars! The League of biowaste such as used syringes or lancets in three steps: Begin by purchasing a Women Voters of the Park Forest Area Sharps container to dispose of your syringes and lancets for $10 at the Park Forest (LWV) is pleased to announce that the Health Department. After you use a syringe or lancet, put it directly into the sharps 26th Annual Park Forest House Tour container. Return the filled container to the Park Forest Health Department and will be held on Sunday, June 6, 2010. purchase a new one. Call Brenda Walker at 708- 748-1118 for more information. For the last several years the House Tour has been held in the fall and it is now moving to the spring when flowers are in bloom. The tour, which first took place in 1982, was originally held in the spring and is a showcase of wonderful housing options in Park Forest. The committee encourages everyone to submit homes to be considered for the tour. Please call or email Barbara Moore (708-481-5251/ [email protected]) or Judy Lohr 708-747-1308/j.lohr@sbcglobal. net) with any nominations.

Proceeds from ticket sales are used to help the League conduct studies/ voter service projects, participate in state and national conferences and allows the League to keep its annual membership dues affordable.

18 Illinois Theatre Center “ARCHY AND MEHITABEL”: wrote about all the denizens of Shinbone Tyrone T. Tattersall, a vain theatre cat. A HOLIDAY MUSICAL Ally, but mostly about Mehitabel, a lusty, Completing the cast are Jeny Wasilewski, The characters of Archy the cockroach free-spirited alley cat. Collections of the Jessica Lauren Fisher, and Christine and Mehitabel the cat were created by Archy and Mehitabel newspaper columns Ronna, playing an assortment of alley cats columnist Don Marquis more than 90 were published in book form in the 1920’s, and insects. The production is directed by years ago. They come to the stage of and have never been out of print since. Etel Billig. the Illinois Theatre Center in the lively, jazzy musical ARCHY AND MEHITABEL. “Archy and Mehitabel - a Back Alley ARCHY AND MEHITABEL runs Friday, The show is a blend of sophisticated Opera” was originally conceived by December 4 through Sunday, December social commentary and rollicking fun composer George Kleinsinger (“Tubby 20. Performances are Wednesday through that’s suitable for all ages. It opens at the the Tuba”) and lyricist Joe Darion (“Man Saturday evenings at 8 PM, and Sundays theatre in Park Forest for a three-week run of La Mancha”) as a 25-minute concert at 2:30 & 7:30 PM. Tickets are priced at $21 starting Friday, December 4. piece. It debuted in New York City in 1954. on Fri. & Sat., $19 all other times. The A year later a recording was released, Illinois Theatre Center is located in Don Marquis was born in 1878, in rural featuring Eddie Bracken as Archy and Downtown Park Forest at 371 Artists’ Walk Walnut, Illinois, and began his newspaper Carol Channing as Mehitabel. The album (off Indianwood Blvd. next to Village Hall). career writing for small-town weeklies. He was so popular that the creators decided For tickets, call (708) 381-3510. worked at several New York papers before to expand the piece into a Broadway moving to The Evening Sun in 1912, musical. Several songs were added and TV where he parlayed a job writing editorials writer Mel Brooks was recruited to write into a daily column, The Sun Dial. Marquis’ the dialogue. It opened in 1957 under the column distinguished itself for its breezy title “Shinbone Alley”. A television version mix of quips, commentary and humorous followed in 1960, and an animated film verse. was released in 1971.

In 1916 he created the character of Archy, The ITC production features ITC veterans a melancholy cockroach with the soul Frank Roberts and Kelly Anne Clark in of a poet, who typed out his stories and the title roles. They are joined by David poems by jumping on the keys of the Boettcher as The Newspaperman, who typewriter (in lower case only, since he narrates the show, Ernest Ray in the dual couldn’t hold down the shift key). Archy roles of Big Bill, a tough tomcat, and

19 E-mail Us and Win!

“We’d love to receive feedback on how pleased you are with services provided by the Village (Recreation & Parks, Public Works, Police, Park Forest Library, Health Department/Nurses Plus, Fire/Paramedics, Economic Development & Planning, Community Development, and Communications).

Simply email us at [email protected] with the submit line “Village Feedback” and tell us your thoughts on how we can better serve you. 50 winners will be randomly selected to receive one of several giveaways, including local gift cards, Freedom Hall tickets and Village vehicle stickers!

Please provide your first and last name as well as mailing address. . . . celebrating quality choral music since 1977 2009 - 2010 Winners will be notified by e-mail or will receive a letter in the mail. Performance sites are all handicap accessible accessability AmaAmahlhl aandnd mmororee Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. Flossmoor Community Church, 2218 Hutchison Rd., Flossmoor, IL (from Western Avenue and Flossmoor Road, drive north to Hutchison)

Awaken your holiday spirit with a semi-staged performance of Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors" performed by the Grande Prairie Singers and guest soloists. Beautiful motets. . . cele bandrating familiarquality chor aseasonall music since 1favorites977 20 0will9 warm- 20 your10 heart on a winter evening. Performance sites are all handicap accessible accessability mention this ad for a $2 discount . . . celebrating quality choral music since 1977 2009 - 2010 AmaAmaFor ticketshlhl toaa anyndnd of these mm concertsororee call: 708/481-8684 Performance sites are all handicap accessible Saturdayemail: ,[email protected] December or 12, visit www.grandeprairiechoral.org 2009 at 4:00 p.m.accessability Flossmoor Community Church, 2218 Hutchison Rd., Flossmoor, IL Love (fromSon Westerngs fro Avenuem Ac randos Flossmoors the A gRoad,es drive north to Hutchison) Don’t miss the Ninth Annual Sunday,Ama Februahlry 14, a2010nd at 4 p.m.m or Rich eSouth H.S. Auditorium Amahl and more Tall Grass Arts Association Holiday Sale! AwakenSaturday your , holiday December spirit with 5000 a 12, semi-staged Sauk Trail,2009 Richton performance atPark, 4:00 IL of Menotti'sp.m. "AmahlFlossmoor and theCommunity NightA H Visitors"ist oChurch,ry performed of 2218Chu by rHutchisonc theh HGrandeym Rd.,n Prairies Flossmoor Singers ,and IL guest soloists. BeautifulA His motetstory andof familiarChur seasonalch Hy favoritesmns will warm your Show ends January 4, 2010 (from WesternSunday, Avenue April and 25, Flossmoor 2010 at Road,2 p.m. drive north to Hutchison) St. Joseph Church heart on a winter evening. 17951 Dixie Hwy., Homewood, IL Awaken your holiday spirit with a semi-staged performance of Menotti's Mini-Gallery/Gift Shop Hours: "Amahl and themention Night Visitors" this performed ad for by a the$2 Grandediscount Prairie Singers and Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. guest soloists. Beautiful motets and familiar seasonal favorites will warm your 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest, IL 60466 heart on a winter evening. For tickets to any of these concerts call: 708/481-8684 708-748-3377 email: [email protected] or visit www.grandeprairiechoral.org mention this ad for a $2 discount www.tallgrassarts.org Love Songs from Across the Ages Sunday,For Februa ticketsry 14, to 2010 any atof 4 these p.m. concerts Rich South call:H.S. Auditorium 708/481-8684 email: [email protected] or visit Sauk www.grandeprairiechoral.org Trail, Richton Park, IL A History YOURof Churc hAD Hym INns “DISCOVER” REACHES Love Songs fSunday,rom AAprilcro 25,ss 2010the Aat g2e p.m.s St. Joseph Church Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 4 p.m.EVERY Rich South H.S.RESIDENT17951 Auditorium Dixie Hwy., Homewood, OF IL THE VILLAGE. 5000 Sauk Trail, Richton Park, IL AFor His tmoreory of C hinformationurch Hymns on sizes and rates call Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 2 p.m. St. Joseph Church (708)17951 Dixie Hwy., 283-5624. Homewood, IL 20 Congratulations and Welcome to our New Employees!

Brett Millsap Tim Thoms Engineering Technician Public Works Crew Member

21 22 Congratulations to the 2009 Good Egg Award Recipients

The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations is pleased to announce Alfreda Keller and Sherry Marnell of Park Forest as recipients of the 2009 Good Egg Award. This year’s winners were recognized on Monday, September 14th during a ceremony before the Mayor and Board of Trustees at Village Hall.

The Good Egg Award recognizes leadership and community service that has had a significant impact on fostering inter-group relations and equal opportunity in the South Suburbs. In 1973 the first award was bestowed on the late Harry Teshima, who laid the groundwork that ultimately attracted the first African- American families as residents of Park Forest.

The Village of Park Forest is proud to be a community comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures and interests who are relentless in their pursuit to make Park Forest and the South Suburbs an even better place to live.

(Above Left) Sherry Marnell with Michael Brown, Esq., Vice Chair, Commission on Human Relations. (Lower Left) Alfreda Keller, Chair, Commission on Human Relations with Michael Brown, Esq., Vice-Chair, Commission on Human Relations.

BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 2 PARK FOREST IL www.villageofparkforest.com CAR-RT

Mayor John A. Ostenburg

Trustees Mae Brandon Local Customer Bonita Dillard Park Forest, IL 60466 Gary Kopycinski Kenneth W. Kramer Robert McCray Georgia O’Neill

Manager Tom Mick

Clerk Sheila McGann