Everyone's Blog Posts - Live Here Oak Park

Super-Couponing: Changing the Way you Shop... Forever! at Oak Park Public Library June 7

2012-05-23T19:30:00.000Z

Join Jill Cataldo on Thursday, June 7 at Oak Park Public Library to learn how to maximize your grocery savings and purchase hundreds of dollars worth of groceries for just pennies! Learn couponing secrets of the pros, which stores will let you stack multiple coupons, how to track sales and discounts online, and best of all - how to get the store to pay YOU to shop. The free event runs 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the Main Library at 834 Lake Street.

Jill Cataldo's couponing habits have captured the attention of ABC's Nightline, Inside Edition, the CBS Early Show, ABC News, Fox News, and many other media outlets. She is also the author of a syndicated newspaper column, "Super-Couponing Tips," read by over 20 million people nationwide. Now, she'll share her methods with you!

Find more free events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

RAW: A Live Exhibition of the Daily Artist May 29 through June 15

2012-05-21T21:00:00.000Z

Local artists will themselves be on exhibition as they create their artwork in Oak Park Public Library’s glass-walled Idea Box. The RAW (Real Art Work) exhibit will be at the Main Library, 834 Lake Street, May 29 through June 15 during regular library hours. All RAW artwork will be available for purchase at the closing reception on Saturday, June 16 from 2 pm to 4 pm.

At RAW, artists will use Oak Park Public Library’s glass-walled Idea Box as a temporary studio. With the door closed they will enjoy peace as they create their artwork. Artists will remain visible to the general public who will observe their progress from the other side of the glass.

Rarely is the general public able to watch the artist create. At RAW, artists will create in a studio environment free from comments yet sharing with visitors the challenges and camaraderie that comes with the creative process. The public will be able to watch how long it takes artists to create their work and how fun it is for the artists when they are “in the zone.” Spectators will gain a greater appreciation for the artistic experience by seeing the steps, time, and techniques artists employ in order to create a piece.

The artwork created in Oak Park Public Library’s Idea Box will be displayed in the space throughout the RAW exhibit so that the progress of the art can be seen. RAW is part performance art, part installation art, and part 2D/3D art. 20% of proceeds from art sales at the RAW closing reception will go to Oak Park Public Library’s art fund dedicated to expanding the library’s permanent art collection.

Artists participating in RAW also participate in the “Daily Artist - Canvas and More” group on Facebook. Artists include:

Jennifer Downing
Stephen Hill
Jesse Howard
Faith Humphrey-Hill
Mark Moroney
Bryan Northup
Mary Jo Parker-O'Hearn
Deborah Peacock-Stoklosa
Ginny Pitre-Hay
Rick Portillo
Luis Real
Ken Reif
Jackie Ruekert-Lakely
Marion Sirefman
Steve Smith
Keith Taylor
Jenny Tiner
Olivia Tiner
Nancy Trock

RAW will be curated by Faith Humphrey-Hill and Stephen Hill.

RAW will be the next installment in Oak Park Public Library’s Idea Box, which functions as an exciting way to engage the Oak Park community. The flexible space just inside the doors at the Main Library at 834 Lake Street can be just about anything – intimate instruction space, multisensory experience, a space for play, experimentation, or content creation! Learn more about the Idea Box at http://oppl.org/events/idea-box.

Find more news from Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/.

West Suburban PADS appoints five new board members

2012-05-21T18:14:06.000Z

Maywood, IL – West Suburban PADS today announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors and the retirement of four members.

The new Board members are:

Sandra Gates, Illinois Department of Employment Security
Ruxandra Hill, BMO Harris Bank
Barrington Lopez, Verizon Wireless
Rogelio Lopez, PNC Bank
Christina Mickens, Educo Design

Members who have completed their Board terms are:

William Clark, M.D., Northwestern University School of Medicine
Betsy Burton Kelly, Social Worker
Laura Kliewer, Board President 2009-2012, Council of State Governments
Gayl Ring, Frosch Travel

The following slate of officers was elected for the 2012-2013 Board term:

Gardi Wilks, President, Wilks Communications
Jonathan Gilfillan, Vice President, FirstMerit Bank
Jason Smith, Treasurer, The Book Table
Sallie Smylie, Secretary, Kirkland & Ellis, LLP

“The installation of PADS’ 2012-2013 Board of Directors ensures we will continue to benefit from the diversity of experience and perspectives that has characterized our board since West Suburban PADS’ inception in 1992,” said President Gardi Wilks. “We welcome the new members and look forward to a productive year as we work to care for those faced with the issues of homelessness.”

Members who will continue their terms on the Board of Directors are Steven Bankes; Jeronia Barnes; Sheila Essig; Jenifer Fabian; Gloria Groom; Pat Johnson; Andrew Maychruk; Douglas Michaud; Anthony Padgett; Sheila Pont; Sally Prescott; Dr. Amanda Turner; Michaelle Van Linden.

West Suburban PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) exists to serve individuals and families who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, with dignity and respect, through shelter, housing and supportive services. It is the only agency whose sole purpose is to end homelessness in Cook County’s 20 near-west suburban communities. West Suburban PADS offers programming in five areas: shelter, housing, supportive services, employment readiness and prevention. For more information: www.westsuburbanpads.org, www.facebook.com/wspads) and on Twitter @westsubPADS.

Free Knitting Class for Beginners June 19 & 26

2012-05-17T16:00:00.000Z

Interested in learning to knit? Make time to attend the free Novel Knitters 101 class on Tuesdays, June 19 and June 26 at Oak Park Public Library. Knitter extraordinaire Sue Jaffee will help you learn the basics, including casting on, binding off, knit stitch, and purl stitch in this two-session class. Sue will also share simple project ideas for new knitters. Each session starts at 10 am at the Main Library, 834 Lake Street. Register in person, online, or call 708-452-3480. Required materials list will be provided in advance.

Sue Jaffee is an accomplished knitter and local knitting instructor from Tangled Web and Knot Just Knits. She has been leading free monthly knitting classes at the library since January 2012.

To explore the world of knitting further, check out some of the 300+ titles in Oak Park Public Library’s collection.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

Pride of the Prairie Giveaway - Wright Plus House Walk & Uncork Illinois tickets!

2012-05-16T18:39:14.000Z

Pride of the Prairie Giveaway
Enter your email address for a chance to win Wright Plus Housewalk and Uncork Illinois tickets on Saturday, June 2nd.

> Click Here to Enter

First Prize Winner

Two tickets to Wright Plus Housewalk on Saturday, June 2nd. This internationally renowned architectural housewalk features rare interior tours of nine private homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and his contemporaries, plus entry to three landmark Wright buildings. $200 value
Two admission tickets to Uncork Illinois following the housewalk on Saturday, June 2nd. Includes 7 tastings and a souvenir wine glass. $30 value
Two tickets to Unity Temple Restoration Foundation's Break the Box Series screening of Romanza: The California Structures Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright on Friday, June 1, Screenings at 5 pm and 7:30 pm, with Filmmaker Michael Miner. $36 value

Second Prize Winner

Two tickets to the Friday preview night of the Wright Plus Housewalk on Friday, June 1st. Not offered to general public.
Two admission tickets to Uncork Illinois following the housewalk on Saturday, June 2nd. Includes 7 tastings and a souvenir wine glass. $30 value

OFFICIAL GIVEAWAY RULES
To enter, beginning May 10th, 2012 submit your email address on our website. Entering the Pride of the Prairie Giveaway also signs you up to receive specials and event updates from Downtown Oak Park in which you can opt-out of at any time after you receive a promotional email. Current Downtown Oak Park email list subscribers are automatically entered to win. Winners will be randomly selected on Wednesday, May 23th and contacted via email. Selected winners will be given one week to claim their prize. If winner does not respond within one week, a new winner will be chosen. The odds of winning are determined by the number of entries received. No substitution of prize is offered, and prizes may not be redeemed for cash value. No purchase necessary; must be 21 or over. Void where prohibited by law.

Our last event....

2012-05-15T14:43:47.000Z

Hi All,

We are planning one last event to support our local artists. The event is planned for Saturday 5/26. If you know any local artists that want to display and sell their pieces in this one day event, please pass on my email address theyovashop@gmail.com

Thanks to all - more details on the event to come!

Participants, volunteers and sponsors sought for July 4th Parade

2012-05-15T03:30:00.000Z

I'm a big fan of the Oak Park 4th of July Parade. It's such a fun community event and it makes me feel like we live in an old fashioned small town for some reason. And of course, it wouldn't be possible without the folks in the community, so I just wanted to pass along this announcement for volunteers, sponsors and participants: 

Participants, volunteers and sponsors are now being sought for the annual July 4th Parade. June 8 is the deadline to register to be in the parade, which attracted more than 40 organizations last year.

Local organizations and businesses are invited to bring a float, march, play music, carry balloons or banners, ride decorated bicycles, skate, drive vintage cars or just dress up to commemorate the nation's birthday and to celebrate Oak Park's rich diversity. 
 
 
Registration and sponsorship forms are available at Village Hall, 123 Madison St., via e-mail to community@oak-park.us and on the Village website at  www.oak-park.us/parade.
 
Since the parade is funded by donations, contributions are needed to help the community continue to offer the event. Checks payable to the Village of Oak Park July 4 Parade Fund may be sent to the Community Relations Department, Village Hall, 123 Madison St., Oak Park, IL 60302.
 
Organizations that donate either $150 or $250 will be sponsors and have their logos displayed in all promotion materials, including advertising and posters.
 
 
The Community Relations Commission, which organizes the parade, also needs volunteers on the morning of July 4 to help monitor traffic crossings along the parade route.
 
 
Parade participants will line up by Longfellow Center, 610 S. Ridgeland Ave. near Jackson Boulevard, at 9 a.m., Wed., July 4. The parade will step off promptly at 10 a.m. and march north on Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Boulevard and disperse at Whitter School.
 
 
 
For more information, including volunteering and sponsorship opportunities, call 708.358.5407 or e-mail community@oak-park.us. 

And if you want to see more photos from the parade, check out these  photos taken by Live Here Oak Park at last year's event. The weather was perfect and I think everyone had a great time.

West Suburban PADS appoints five new board members

2012-05-14T17:35:58.000Z

Maywood, IL – West Suburban PADS today announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors and the retirement of four members.

The new Board members are:

Sandra Gates, Illinois Department of Employment Security
Ruxandra Hill, BMO Harris Bank
Barrington Lopez, Verizon Wireless
Rogelio Lopez, PNC Bank
Christina Mickens, Educo Design

Members who have completed their Board terms are:

William Clark, M.D., Northwestern University School of Medicine
Betsy Burton Kelly, Social Worker
Laura Kliewer, Board President 2009-2012, Council of State Governments
Gayl Ring, Frosch Travel

The following slate of officers was elected for the 2012-2013 Board term:

Gardi Wilks, President, Wilks Communications
Jonathan Gilfillan, Vice President, FirstMerit Bank
Jason Smith, Treasurer, The Book Table
Sallie Smylie, Secretary, Kirkland & Ellis, LLP

Why does'nt livehere blog show up in my Nutshell email anymore?

2012-05-11T23:05:15.000Z

Does anyone know why I can't get the blog via email anymore?

Celebrating Seniors Week events at the library

2012-05-11T16:30:00.000Z

Hear about adventure travel, discover the latest research on brain health, then end the week playing computer games that encourage dancing, singing, playing with animals, and journeying down roaring rapids (without getting wet). All three of these events will be at Oak Park Public Library and are free and open to all ages.

Tuesday, May 22, 2 pm Main Library “Brain Health” presented by Dr. Shah
People who stay active are less likely to have problems with their memory and thinking as they get older. Learn tips on how to keep your memory sharp from Dr. Raj C. Shah of the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center. Hear what some new research studies have found out about aspirin, Omega A-3, and Vitamin D. Can they prolong a healthy life?

Thursday, May 24, 2 pm Main Library “Explore Turkey” with Zygmunt and Irma Sokolnicki
These free-wheeling Oak Park seniors chose to make their own adventure travel plans. They have recently returned from Turkey where they traveled for a month, touring by bus with two suitcases, exploring ruins, sampling Turkish foods, meeting Turkish citizens, and ballooning over the Cappadocia region. You may be inspired to try something new yourself after you meet this energetic couple who will share stories from their adventures in Turkey.

Friday, May 25 at 2 pm “Seniors Just Want to Have Fun: Game Playing with Computers”
Try a friendly computer dance competition or experience the thrill of full-body gaming as you jump, dodge, and kick your way through 20 different heart-pounding adventures. Rally your friends to sing four-part harmonies or try a dance exercise routine. Try a game at one of our XBox and or Wii stations. Board games will also be available as well as refreshments to keep your energy level up.

“Celebrating Seniors Week” will be celebrated in Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park May 18 through May 25.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

Sophomores invited to apply to “News Know-How” campaign

2012-05-09T16:30:00.000Z

Oak Park teens starting their sophomore year are invited to apply to News Know-How, a national campaign to engage high school students, journalists, news ethicists, and librarians in a news literacy education project. The goal is to give students basic news literacy skills and the tools to become watchdogs in connection with the 2012 presidential campaigns. Complete the online application at http://opplteen.org/news-know-how-application by May 22 to be considered.

With Oak Park Public Library as their “newsroom,” Oak Park teens engaged in News Know-How will learn how to distinguish facts from opinions and will have an opportunity to work with professional journalists and librarians as mentors. Participants will work in small teams based on shared interests. They will monitor and analyze a specific news media beat, journalist or collection of news sources across various platforms. Students will then create a computer-based presentation or screencast that shares their experience and the lessons they learned with others.

Selected participants must complete four days of training which will be held 10 am to 5 pm on July 10, 11, 23, and 25. Lunch will be provided each day. News Know-How will run from July through mid-December. Following training, teams will work on their projects five hours a week during the summer and two hours a week during the school year.

Oak Park librarians and journalists will review applications for News Know-How and select students to be interviewed in late May. Teens who are selected for an interview and are under 18 must print and bring to their interview the signed permission form available at http://opplteen.org/newsknowhow. Selected students will be notified by June 1. Older teens may be considered if space is available.

News Know-How participants will walk away with:
• connections to real-life issues and journalists
• a digital portfolio on Oak Park Public Library’s website and the national News Know-How website
• equipment to support their ongoing involvement in media production
• possibly, eligibility for scholarship money and/or school credit

Local journalists interested in getting involved in News Know-How, may contact Rebecca Teasdale, Assistant Director for Public Services and Programs, at rteasdale@oppl.org.

News Know-How is a two-year, $750,000 national project. Libraries that will kick off the project include Oak Park Public Library, Chicago Public Library, Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, and several Iowa rural and urban libraries working with the State Library.

Oak Park Public Library is sponsoring the project locally. National sponsors are the American Library Association and the Open Society Foundations. The lead training organization is the News Literacy Project Inc. The program will be assessed by a team at the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

For more about News Know-How and to link to the application, visit http://opplteen.org/newsknowhow.

District 97 Appoints New Middle School Principals and Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and General Counsel

2012-05-09T01:17:43.000Z

If you've been following the latest D97 news, you'll know that the district has been in the process of hiring several new administrators. Chris Jasculca, director of policy, planning and communication recently shared this update:

Just wanted to let you know that, during its meeting tonight, the District 97 Board of Education unanimously approved the appointments of Todd Fitzgerald as the principal of Percy Julian Middle School, Mike Michowski as the principal of Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School, and Joanne Schochat as the district’s assistant superintendent for human resources and general counsel. You can access additional information about these appointments by visiting http://www.op97.org/news/District-97-Appoints-New-Middle-School-Principals-and-Assistant-Superintendent-for-Human-Resources-and-General-Counsel.cfm.

Summer Camps at the Oak Park Conservatory

2012-05-09T01:00:00.000Z

Summertime is just around the corner. If you haven't made plans for your kids yet, here's some info from the Oak Park Conservatory that might be of interest:

Eco-Friendly Art Camp

Ages 8-12

Learn basic drawing, painting and simple sculpture skills influenced by the natural world. Educational craft projects for each of the four seasons will be created using the elements of water, wind, fire and earth with emphasis on the use of natural paints, dyes and fibers. Students will keep a sketchbook journal and find out how their choices affect the earth, environment, animals and ocean life.
Tu-Th, 1-4p, Jul24-Aug2
Tu-Th, 1-4p, Aug7-Aug16
$146/$219

Eco-Rangers Camp
Ages 6-9

Experience the smells, sounds, and wildlife at the Conservatory. Create your own cactus garden and tropical rain garden and learn what they need to stay healthy. Visit Illinois woods and prairies and collect some of the worms and bugs that live there. Experience nature up-close and learn what you can do to protect it. There will be one field trip each week.
Tu-Th, 9a-12n, Jun 12-21
Tu-Th, 1-4p, June 12-21
Tu-Th, 9a-12n, Jul 10-19
Tu-Th, 9a-12n, Jul 10-19
$146/$219

Photographer Lisa Green presents ‘Mom & Pop-parazzi’ May 20

2012-05-07T16:00:00.000Z

The sun is out, the spring colors are vibrant, and your kids are cuter than ever! Now if only you were better at capturing their smiles in your photos. Professional portrait photographer Lisa Green will provide expert advice at “Mom & Pop-parazzi” on Sunday, May 20 at 2 pm at Oak Park Public Library’s Dole Branch at 255 Augusta Street. With decades of experience getting the very best shots, Lisa Green has plenty of tips to share. Whether you need help with lighting, framing, or uncooperative subjects, help can be found at “Mom & Pop-parazzi.” This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

Lisa Green’s amazing photos of young Oak Park readers are hung in the Storytime Room of Oak Park Public Library’s Main Library at 834 Lake Street. Her gallery of delightful baby photography can be viewed at http://sgreenphoto.com.

Oak Park Public Library has many resources for anyone interested in advancing their photography skills. Library staff can assist you in locating the right books for your skill level. Or you can take free online photography classes through Universal Class. With your library card and PIN visit http://oppl.org/research/online-tools to link to Universal Class and over 500 continuing education courses in almost every topic you can think of, including several in photography.

The Oak Park Photography Club meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7 pm at the Main Library, 834 Lake Street. Bring your photos to share. All skill levels welcome. The Oak Park Photography Club meets next on Monday, May 14, but will not meet on Memorial Day.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

Derby Lite did it again!

2012-05-06T15:12:53.000Z

Team Derby Lite raised more than $32,000 for the American Cancer Society's 2012 Walk & Roll. The 10-mile skate took place Sunday April 29^th on Chicago’s lakefront. This is the 5^th year Derby Lite has participated and has raised more than $135,000 overall. Team Derby Lite thanks everyone who donated and the more than 40 team members who skated.

West Suburban Temple holds "Dancing with the Stars" Fundraiser

2012-05-03T18:30:00.000Z

Seven brave and graceful contestants -- including Rabbi Robin Damsky and Cantor Stewart Figa -- will perform with professional dancers in a contest that follows the format of the popular show "Dancing With the Stars." After a score and critique from a panel of professional judges, the audience will get to vote. After the contest, enjoy dancing, dessert and a cash bar.

The fun begins at 8:15 on Saturday, May 12 at West Suburban Temple, 1040 N. Harlem Ave. in River Forest.

The cost is $36 per person, and you can purchase your ticket at the temple office: 708-366-9000.

Artist Jesse Howard exhibits at the library this month

2012-05-03T17:00:00.000Z

The dramatic art work of Jesse Howard will be on display in an exhibit titled “The Abyss Series: The Diminishing Black Male” through May 30 at the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. The exhibit brings to light how the plight of African American youth is indicative of a greater social and cultural dilemma.

A reception for the artist will be Saturday, May 12 from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the library’s art gallery. The exhibit is open seven days a week during regular library hours. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.

'Blue Train With a Light' by Jesse Howard

Jesse Howard was born in Chicago, IL. At an early age, he showed an interest in drawing cartoon characters and rehabbing empty garages into club spaces. He demonstrated an aptitude to create and change chaotic spaces into something livable. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Ball State University, with a major in Commercial Art and a minor in Business Administration. One of his favorite instructors, Larry Graham, encouraged him to pursue truth and spirituality in his subject matter.

Eager to continue to develop his graphic art skills, Jesse worked for a topographer in Chicago. He found this field of art too mechanical and client based. He wanted more control over his creativity. For 20 years, Jesse took a different career path into business. In the eighties, he rededicated himself to Fine Arts. He began studying sculptors, such as Richard Hunt and Martin Puryear; he felt they had a grasp of space and materials.

Since his rededication, his art work has appeared in many galleries nationwide and his career has been covered in many publications. His first major one person show in 1984 was with Zriny Gallery. He also exhibited with the Chicago Cultural Center, 5+5 In Perspectives In Black Art, just to name a few. Jesse’s themes often present images of African American males as he has seen them in Chicago urban settings.

This year, Jesse Howard has previously mounted a solo show for the Aurora Public Art Commission, the Oak Park Area Arts Council, and Concordia University. He is an active member of the Oak Park Art League and teaches drawing at the Art League. In 2011, Howard won as cash award in the Carriage House Gallery National Juried Exhibition.

Oak Park Public Library’s Art Gallery features a local artist or group of artists each month. The gallery is open seven days a week during regular library hours. For information on upcoming exhibits visit http://oppl.org/about/library-information/art-library/art-gallery.

Each of Oak Park Public Library’s locations has unique and beautiful art in permanent collections, and quotes from literary and local figures throughout the buildings. Find more information about the library’s permanent art collection at http://oppl.org/about/library-information/art-library/main-library.

Newcomers Club Hosting Fundraiser for Food Pantry at Fitzgerald's

2012-05-02T15:07:35.000Z

Newcomers & Neighbors of OPRF Fundraiser Benefiting OPRF Food Pantry

Wednesday, May 23, 2012, 7:00 -10:00pm

Fitzgerald’s Night Club, 6615 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn

Rock the night away atFitzgerald’s featuring The Z Orchestra! Food and drinks included in ticket purchase.

Tickets are $30 for general public, $35 at the door and can be purchased by online at www.oprfnewcomers.eventbrite.com or by check, made out to “Newcomers & Neighbors of OPRF” - mailing information on the Newcomers' website.

Contact Heidi for questions: hruehlemay@yahoo.com.

"Leaving Czechoslovakia" exhibit runs May 8 through May 27

2012-04-27T18:00:00.000Z

Hundreds of thousands of Slovaks and Czechs fled their homeland during the communist era, many risking their lives in the process. Their stories, about why and how they emigrated, are sometimes dramatic, sometimes tragic, and essential to our understanding of the events that shaped the 20th Century. These first-person accounts form the core of “Leaving Czechoslovakia,” a new traveling exhibition from the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. “Leaving Czechoslovakia” will be at Oak Park Public Library at 834 Lake Street, Tuesday, May 8 through Sunday, May 27.

Under the auspices of Dana Hunatova, Consul General of the Czech Republic in Chicago, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML), will hold an opening reception for “Leaving Czechoslovakia” on Friday, May 11 from 7pm to 9 pm at Oak Park Public Library. The opening reception for “Leaving Czechoslovakia” is free and open to the public, and is sponsored by the Prague Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International and Oak Park Public Library.

The “Leaving Czechoslovakia” exhibition will be free and open to the public during regular library hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 1pm - 6pm

Live Musical Performance
As a special accompaniment to “Leaving Czechoslovakia,” the United Moravian Singers will bring to life traditional songs in the Czech language in a free performance on Sunday, May 20 from 2pm to 4pm at Oak Park Public Library.

More About “Leaving Czechoslovakia”
From 2009 through 2011, more than 150 interviews were conducted by the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library through its landmark project, “Recording Voices & Documenting Memories of Czech & Slovak Americans.”

The project captures and preserves the stories of Czechs and Slovaks who fled their homeland during the Cold War. Phase I of the project focused on those who settled in Chicago, Cleveland, and Washington D.C. The project’s website (www.NCSML.org) shows video excerpts from interviews, photos, archive materials, and biographies of Czechs and Slovaks who began a new life in the United States.

“Recording Voices & Documenting Memories of Czech & Slovak Americans” has been made possible thanks to a grant awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and in cooperation with the Office of Slovaks Living Abroad, the Slovak Institute in Cleveland, and the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago. Phase II of the project is now underway; it aims to record the stories of the new wave of post-communist Czech and Slovak immigrants in Chicago, New York and San Francisco.

Idea Box at Oak Park Public Library
The “Leaving Czechoslovakia” exhibition will be the next installment in Oak Park Public Library’s Idea Box, which functions as an exciting way to engage the Oak Park community. The raw, flexible space just inside the doors at the Main Library at 834 Lake Street can be just about anything – intimate instruction space, multisensory experience, a space for play, experimentation, or content creation.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

Scrabble Tournament challenges ages 6+ on May 19

2012-04-26T22:00:00.000Z

Fervent competitors, casual players, and newbie’s age 6 and up are welcome to participate in Oak Park Public Library’s spring Scrabble Tournament. Put your Scrabble skills to the test starting at 1 pm on Saturday, May 19 at the Main Library, 834 Lake Street. Registration begins May 1. Register at the library, at http://oppl.org, or call 708-452-3440.

Players at the Scrabble Tournament will be divided into four age brackets:
(1) ages 6 – 9
(2) ages 10 – 13
(3) ages 14 – 17
(4) ages 18 and older

Choose competitors from your age bracket. Players will be assigned four to a Scrabble board. The 2008 version of The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary will be the official dictionary for the tournament. Prizes will be awarded to the player with the top score in each age bracket.

Whether you have never played Scrabble before or consider yourself an expert, come show your skills at Oak Park Public Library’s Scrabble Tournament!

Brush up your Scrabble skills and get game pointers with these resources from the library: The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary, The Official Scrabble Players Handbook edited by Drue K. Conklin, Scrabble Crossword Game Players, inc., and Everything Scrabble: Crossword Game by Joe Edley and John D. Williams, Jr,

Soak up the Scrabble culture with Word Wars, an entertaining documentary which follows four Scrabble game fanatics as they advance to the North American Championship. In his book Letterati: An Unauthorized Look at Scrabble and the People Who Play It, Paul McCarthy conveys the history of this past-time/obsession. In The Fingertips of Duncan Dorfman, a fiction work for kids written by Meg Wolitzer, three twelve-year-olds meet at the Youth Scrabble Tournament and realize that something more important is at stake than the grand prize.

Further prepare for the Scrabble Tournament by referencing the Oxford English Dictionary online. With your library card and PIN visit http://oppl.org/languages.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

Lake Theater First Tuesday Film Club Pick

2012-04-25T02:00:00.000Z

Here's the latest installment from the Lake Theater First Tuesday Film Club:

Oak Park, IL – Lake Theatre’s First Tuesday Film Club will be present its second art film – the enjoyable, French comedy “Potiche” (rated R). Slated for Tuesday, May 1st, show times are 1 PM and 7 PM. Movie admission is $6 for matinee shows/seniors and $8.50 for the evening shows. Advance tickets are available online or at the Lake Theatre box office, located at 1022 Lake Street.

Based on a 1970 comic play by Pierre Barillet and Jean-Pierre Gredy, “Potiche” is a cinematic exploration of the war of the sexes. Set in a provincial French town in 1977, the film focuses on Suzanne (Catherine Deneuve), a passive trophy wife (or “potiche”) who steps in to manage the umbrella factory run by her husband after the workers go on strike. To everyone's surprise, Suzanne proves herself a competent and assertive woman of action. Gerard Depardieu plays a former union leader and Suzanne's ex-beau who still holds a flame for her. Directed by acclaimed Writer/Director Francois Ozon.

Rob Elder, journalist, author and film columnist, will review the movie and then facilitate a discussion after the screening. Elder currently teaches journalism at Northwestern University's Medill School. Stay after the movie to participate in this exchange of ideas.

The First Tuesday Film Club was created to expand its presentation of art/foreign films at the Lake Theatre. Due to the limited number of screens, the Lake is oftentimes restricted to more popular, mainstream films rather than the foreign or art movie options. Now, art, foreign, documentary, specialty, and/or classic films will be presented on the first Tuesday of every month at 1 PM and 7 PM.

The art films for this new First Tuesday Film Club have been selected with the assistance of local residents Susie Helfrich, Mary Kay O’Grady, and Bobbie Raymond along with Shirley Johnson of Classic Cinemas. This advisory committee will also secure special guest lecturers and film discussion leaders as well as suggest ways to spread the word about the First Tuesday Film Club throughout Oak Park, River Forest and the surrounding areas.

Free folk concerts: My Sweet Patootie 4/30 and Claudia Schmidt 5/10

2012-04-23T17:30:00.000Z

Enjoy “a tongue-in-cheek Canadian blend of old country, vintage jazz, western swing, and blues.” My Sweet Patootie performs on Monday, April 30 at 7 pm at Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. The dazzling fiddle and guitar solos and joy of live performances by Sandra Swannell and Terry Young have delighted audiences in Canada, England, and the USA since 1999. Doors open at 6:30 pm. First-come, first-seated. Meet My Sweet Patootie and purchase CDs following the concert.

Claudia Schmidt is a powerful vocalist and adventurous artist who combines lively folk, jazz, and blues with rich poetry and playful humor. Hear Claudia Schmidt perform from her newest CD, Bend in the River: Collected Songs and other albums on Thursday, May 10 at 7 pm at Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. Doors open at 6:30 pm. First-come, first-seated. Claudia Schmidt will sell and sign her CDs following the concert.

Both free concerts are part of the folk music series sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library.

Find more events happening at Oak Park Public Library at http://oppl.org/events/calendar.

My Sweet Patootie

Claudia Schmidt

LED lights “go green” in Oak Park Public Library parking garage

2012-04-17T17:00:00.000Z

LED light bulbs are now installed in forty lighting units in Oak Park Public Library’s parking garage at 834 Lake Street. The new LED lights are visibly brighter while using less than half the energy of the replaced bulbs. “The new lights also have a motion-detecting feature and switch to half-power when not activated,” states Facilities Manager Rory ONeill. “Since code requires the garage level to be lit after-hours, motion detection means even more savings.” This change is part of Oak Park Public Library’s ongoing efforts to minimize our impact on the natural environment.

“The old lights used 1.8 amps round-the-clock. The new ones use .4 amps when fully on and .2 amps in energy savings mode,” continues ONeill. “We’ve reduced energy use in lighting the parking garage by more than half.”

The new LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights are more expensive to purchase but are expected to last 50,000 hours – much longer than the replaced bulbs. “Plus, as demand and production increases for this product, the cost is getting cheaper,” notes ONeill. “These same bulbs would have been more expensive to purchase even a year ago.” The new LED light bulbs are also mercury-free, so unlike the replaced fluorescent bulbs, they require no extra care to be disposed of properly.

Oak Park Public Library is considering a number of options for the old bulbs and lighting units that have been replaced. “They will be sold as working lights, sold as is, or recycled,” states Jim Madigan, Assistant Director for Administrative Services.

Also to minimize impact on the natural environment, Oak Park Public Library recently switched to checkout receipt paper made from 70% post-consumer-waste and to library cards made from nearly 100% recycled PVC plastic. Both changes were made at comparable or lesser cost.

Oak Park Public Library’s Main Library, which opened in 2003, was designed to minimize impact on the natural environment through the use of sustainable building materials and systems. A large portion of the Main Library’s fourth floor is open to the air and covered with soil and plants. This green roof, along with the recycled copper wall system, recycled rubber flooring, and ceramic fritted glass windows that reduce heat gain, all help make the Main Library environmentally-friendly.

For more about the environmentally-friendly features of the Main Library and to view a video tour of the green roof, visit http://oppl.org/15.

United Lutheran Church rummage sale

2012-04-17T03:43:05.000Z

Artist Kathleen Garness Exhibits at Oak Park Public Library in April

2012-04-16T15:00:00.000Z

Oak Park artist Kathleen Garness shares her paintings in an exhibit titled “The Botanical Eye – Orchids and Other Wonders” which will be on display through April 29 at Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. A reception for Garness will be held on Saturday, April 21 from 2 to 4 pm in Oak Park Public Library’s Art Gallery. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.

“Orchids have fascinated people for millennia,” notes Kathleen Garness. “They are the most highly evolved family in the plant kingdom and are highly valued for their beauty.” Garness has been enamored of orchids and other botanical subjects for many years and loves to paint their beauty and diversity of form.

painting by Kathleen Garness

Kathleen Garness' native yellow ladyslipper painting was included in the exhibit “Losing Paradise? Endangered Plants Here and Around the World,” which recently finished its world tour at Kew Gardens, London in 2011. The “Losing Paradise?” exhibit was co-sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution, the Center for Plant Conservation and the American Society of Botanical Artists.

Kathleen Garness is an artist member of the Oak Park Art League, the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators, and the American Society of Botanical Artists. She is very active in the local natural areas conservation community. Garness was the 2008 recipient of the Grassroots Conservation Leadership Award, sponsored by Chicago Wilderness and Audubon Chicago Region.

Summer Volunteer Opportunities for Kids and Teens

2012-04-13T16:30:00.000Z

Looking for a unique summer volunteer experience? Oak Park Public Library is once again offering a volunteer program for teens that will build your skills, engage your talents, and allow you to give back to the community. Teens entering 7th through 12th grades can apply to join teams like Art Attack and Booktalkers. Seven collaborative teams will be working on a variety of projects, from mural making, graphic designing, and book reviewing, to yarn bombing and recreating historical photographs of the community. Drop-in volunteer opportunities are also available. Apply by May 18 to take advantage of these opportunities. Applications are now available at http://opplteen.org or at any Oak Park Public Library location.

Kids going into 5th and 6th grades can also volunteer at Oak Park Public Library this summer. Help with special programs for younger children, write book reviews, decorate the library, and promote the summer reading program. Junior Volunteers will meet for six weeks, from June 11 through July 19, at the Main Library, 834 Lake Street. Choose either Mondays, 3:30pm-5:30 pm or Thursdays, 10am-12pm. Junior Volunteer applications are now available at the Main Library Children's Services Desk or at http://oppl.org.

members of Booktalkers volunteer team 2011

Teens prepare for job market with free workshops at Oak Park Public Library

2012-04-12T19:30:00.000Z

If you’re a teen who plans to work this summer, attend Oak Park Public Library’s job workshop series for guidance. You’ll prepare to ace the job interview, pick up job etiquette, and consider ways to manage the money you earn. The four-part series is free and meets weekly in May at Oak Park Public Library. Call 708-452-3440 to register.

Attend all four workshops to get a certificate of completion:

Introduction to Job Workshop Series
Monday, May 7, 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Main Library, 834 Lake Street

Job Etiquette
Monday, May 14, 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Main Library, 834 Lake Street

Interview Practice with Old Navy
Monday, May 21, 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Main Library, 834 Lake Street

What to Do with Your First Paycheck with OPRF Community Bank
Tuesday, May 29, 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Main Library, 834 Lake Street

Nervous about the job interview? Confused about how to manage your earnings? In four hours, this teen job workshop series will prepare you to tackle the process and connect you with people who might serve as a professional reference.

Oak Park Public Library also offers free seminars for all job seekers, in partnership with local agencies. At each seminar, a professional highlights a specific topic, for example: best practices in job searching strategies, preparing application materials, and understanding the steps to employment. These seminars for job seekers complement the library’s free classes. Classes like “Microsoft Excel 2007,” “Skype,” and “LinkedIn 101” teach basic skills and introduce new tools for the job hunt.

Oak Park Public Library’s print and online resources provide further assistance in areas from job seeking and resume and cover letter preparation to job training, education, career building, and professionalism. Library staff can assist you in locating the materials you need for success.

Find more information, events, and resources for teens at http://opplteen.org.

Graphic Memoirist Guy Delisle brings Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City to Oak Park Public Library May 2

2012-04-10T15:30:00.000Z

Acclaimed graphic memoirist Guy Delisle is making his first-ever North American tour with his strongest work yet – a thoughtful and moving travelogue about life in the Holy City. Delisle will unveil Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City on Wednesday, May 2 at 7 pm at the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. This free event is co-sponsored by The Book Table and Oak Park Public Library.

Guy Delisle expertly lays the groundwork for a cultural road map of contemporary Jerusalem, utilizing the classic stranger in a strange land point of view that made his other books, Pyongyang, Shenzhen, and Burma Chronicles, required reading for understanding what daily life is like in cities few are able to travel to. In Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City, Delisle explores the complexities of a city that represents so much to so many. He eloquently examines the impact of the conflict on the lives of people on both sides of the wall while drolly recounting the quotidian: checkpoints, traffic jams, and holidays.

When observing the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim populations that call Jerusalem home, Delisle's drawn line is both sensitive and fair, assuming nothing and drawing everything. Jerusalem showcases once more Delisle's mastery of the travelogue.

Legacy Sports Camp celebrates spring break and the Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry

2012-04-09T22:00:28.000Z

The kids who participated in Legacy Sports Camps recent spring break camp, not only did something good for their health but for the health of the community.

The participants brought more than 90 items of non-perishable items for the Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry.

Legacy Sports Camp offers a variety of year round sports programs hosted both at local schools and The Arc, 18 W. Chicago Ave. Legacy also offers birthday parties. Founded by Oak Park natives, Caleb Fields and Dan Kane. Between the two, they share over 2 decades of experience in supervising children's athletic programs. Together they use a time tested camp formula that has been successful in Oak Park and neighboring suburbs for over 20 years.

Since beginning, Legacy has had more than 2000 camp participants in over 600 hours of camp.

For a list of upcoming programs or to view the summer camp schedule, go to legacysportscamp.com.

Caption: Participants donate food items to the Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry. Photo by Dominika Irmina.

Historical Society’s Ninth Annual House walk

2012-04-08T19:25:35.000Z

It's housewalk season again:

Historical Society’s Ninth Annual House walk
Glimpses of Oak Park: Then & Now

The Historical Society of Oak Park & River Forest will hold its

Ninth Annual Historic House walk Glimpses of Oak Park: Then

& Now on Saturday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year’s tour returns to the Ridgeland/Oak Park Historic district and will spotlight 7 houses in the western section of the district. Featured is the award winning home of historical society president Kelli Kline and her husband Tom who have meticulously restored their 1887 Queen Anne Victorian to the period. This ten-year restoration has won several awards. Also open for the first time is the John Seamans House, built in 1894 and designed by noted local architect H. G. Fidelke this imposing classical revival was designed to capture the architecture style popular following the 1893 Columbian exposition. This home has never been open and is thought to be the most original Victorian interior still surviving today in Oak Park.

Pre-paid reserved tickets are $30 ($25 for members). Reservations can be made by calling (708) 848-6755 or online at oprfhistory.org. Pick up and purchase tickets for $35 that day at Pleasant Home, 210 Home Ave. in Oak Park. Tickets are also available locally at the Oak Park Visitors Center. All proceeds benefit the Historical Society, a not-for-profit community organization.