The Village of Park Forest is releasing a special summer edition of Discover Magazine to celebrate the Village's 75th anniversary.
Communications Coordinator Joshua Vinson mentioned that this issue includes a feature story by Daily Southtown columnist and long-time Park Forester Jerry Shnay.
"This two-page feature story recalls how Park Forest became home for Jerry and his wife and identifies why the Village is a special place to them," Vinson said. "Shnay is a fixture in journalism here in the southland, so I was honored he agreed to contribute to the magazine."
Discover Magazine also features Mayor Joseph A. Woods’ speech at the 75th anniversary cake-cutting event that took place earlier this year at Freedom Hall on Park Forest’s incorporation’s date.
Vinson mentioned that the upcoming edition will focus on contentious issues such as property taxes. One story recalls a meeting between the Cook County Assessor’s Office, the Park Forest Board of Trustees, and Village staff. Park Forest officials demanded answers for what they felt were unfair taxing practices. Additionally, a notable contribution by former Park Forest Mayor John Ostenburg discusses strategies for the survival and prosperity of Park Forest and its neighboring communities by proposing a new taxing system.
Discover Magazine will also contain essential summer lawn maintenance tips and offers information on permits.
"This magazine edition will feature many of our summer offerings," Vinson said. "For the residents who've been here for a while, most are familiar with what happens in Park Forest for the summer — whether it be the Village's Fourth of July parade, Main Street Nights (a concert series held on the Village Green every Wednesday over the summer), or the Aqua Center."
Vinson added, "There are other things that have happened in the community over the past year that are good for residents to better understand—like construction projects. Residents probably have seen work being done but may not have the clearest picture of what is being done."
Vinson said the magazine's goal is to educate residents about the happenings in the Village. He said the best way to do that is to communicate with them about the positive things occurring in Park Forest.
The U.S.P.S. is currently distributing Discover Magazine. Anyone who has not received a copy or wants more copies can pick them up in Village Hall's lobby.