News

Bensenville, Ill. (December 4, 2024) — Looking for that perfect gift for a golfer in your life? Save 50 percent on merchandise during the White Pines Golf Club’s two-day holiday sale on Saturday and Sunday, December 14-15, at its pro shop, 500 W. Jefferson in Bensenville.

“Pick up a holiday gift for that special golfer, or pick up a gift card for use later on,” says PGA Head Golf Professional Bill Roper, noting that gift card purchases are excluded from the sale, but gift cards may be used to purchase discounted items at the sale. “This clearance sale provides the best deals of the year on golf merchandise.”

The pro shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the two-day sale, please visit the White Pines website at www.whitepinesgolf.com, the White Pines Pro Shop or call 630-766-0304.

Ages 6-11 invited to free event December 14

Bensenville, Ill. (December 3, 2024) – Young athletes aged 6-11 can experience the thrill of futsal with the Bensenville Park District’s free Introduction to Futsal session, happening on Saturday, December 14, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood St. in Bensenville. This dynamic, fast-paced version of soccer offers a fun and exciting way to build skills and stay active.

Futsal is played indoors on a hard court with small teams of five, including a goalkeeper. The game’s fast tempo helps players improve ball control, passing, footwork and decision-making, making it ideal for players of all skill levels.

The clinic is divided by age group, with the following sessions scheduled in the DGLC Gym:

• Ages 6-7      Noon
• Ages 8-9      1 p.m.
• Ages 10-11   2 p.m.

Participants should wear comfortable sportswear and indoor soccer shoes (non-marking soles) and bring a water bottle.

“These intro sessions are a great way for kids to try a growing sport that improves technical skills, encourages teamwork and keeps players active in an engaging environment,” says Recreation Supervisor Ty Beshiri. “We’re excited to introduce futsal to our community and inspire more kids to fall in love with the game.”

Whether new to soccer or looking to take their skills to the next level, participants will enjoy an active, high-energy afternoon with expert instruction and plenty of fun.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the excitement of futsal. The event is free and open to the public.

The park district is enrolling for an eight-week winter-spring futsal league that begins January 29. Registration for this program is now open at the DGLC through January 10. For more information, visit BvilleParks.org or contact Beshiri at 630-766-7015.

Clubhouse before- and after-school program participants get days-off school discounts

Bensenville, Ill. (December 2, 2024) — Looking for childcare options during the holidays and beyond? Parents seeking fun, engaging activities for their children during school holidays, institute days and in-service days can turn to the Bensenville Park District’s Clubhouse Days Off School Program. Designed to keep kids ages 5-12 active and entertained, the program offers full-day childcare and a variety of exciting activities to make every day off memorable.

The Clubhouse Days off School program runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Children must arrive by 9 a.m.), with the convenience of drop-off and pick-up taking place at the Maple Room located within the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville. Parents can rest assured that their children will be well taken care of during these extended hours, with a variety of enriching activities planned to keep young minds engaged. Dates include Dec. 23, 26, 27, and 30, 2024; Jan. 2, 3, and 20, 2025; Feb. 17 and 28, 2025 (Feb. 21 includes a field trip).

Each day offers a variety of games, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, and more, keeping participants engaged and entertained. Field trips on select days add an extra layer of excitement, with destinations and details shared in advance.
Fees are $65 per day ($55 in-district), and field trip days are $90 ($80 in-district). Clubhouse Before and After School participants receive a discounted rate of $45 per day ($70 on field trip days).

Breakfast and afternoon snacks are provided. Participants should bring a sack lunch and water bottle each day. The Bensenville Park District maintains a peanut-free zone, respecting the safety of participants with food allergies. A minimum of six participants is required for the program to run.

“The Clubhouse Days Off School program is all about creating unforgettable memories,” says Leslie Monarrez, Recreation Supervisor-Program Manager. “We make sure every child feels engaged, creative and ready to try new things in a safe and fun environment.”

Parents can register for one or multiple days at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, call 630-766-7015 or visit BvilleParks.org.\

Purchase a 2025 annual membership and receive the rest of 2024 free

Bensenville, Ill. (November 29, 2024)— Wood Street Fitness, located at 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville, has extended its Black Friday membership deal for new members through the rest of 2024. Patrons who sign up for a 2025 annual membership will receive the remainder of 2024 for free, adding extra value to their fitness journey at no additional cost.

“This Black Friday extension is perfect for those thinking about a gym membership to kick-start their fitness goals before the new year by starting now,” says Recreation Supervisor Ty Beshiri, who oversees the fitness program as well as soccer, futsal and other sports such as pickleball. “Wood St. Fitness annual memberships offer a 15 percent discount compared to monthly rates, and there’s no time like now to get started!”

The extended Black Friday deal applies to three membership types: fitness center memberships, Core Class Pass memberships and combination memberships.

Current annual membership fees for Wood Street Fitness are as follows:
• Adult (17+): $153 for in-district; $183 for public
• Couple: $255 in-district; $306 for public
• Senior (55+): $112 for in-district; $143 for public
• Youth (12-16 in-district): $122; $153 for public

The Core Class Pass grants unlimited access to group fitness classes, excluding premier classes and special events. Annual rates are $300 for in-district and $360 for out-of-district residents. Members may also add the Core Class Pass to a regular fitness membership for an additional $204 annually.

Veterans and active military personnel qualify for the extended Black Friday promotion as well, receiving a free membership through 2024 and a 20 percent discount on subsequent annual memberships.

For additional information, visit WoodStFitness.com. To register, visit the Deer Grove Leisure Center at 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville.

Bensenville, Ill. (November 27, 2024) –The Bensenville Park District invites children to ensure their Christmas wishes reach Santa Claus in time for the holiday season with the “Letters to Santa” program. Special magical mailboxes have been placed at three locations for children to send their holiday wishes directly to the North Pole.

Families can drop off letters by December 15 at any of the following locations in Bensenville:
• Deer Grove Leisure Center (1000 W. Wood Street)
• White Pines Golf Club (500 W. Jefferson Street)
• Fischer Farm (16W680 Old Grand Avenue)

To ensure Santa can send a reply, children should include a return address with their letters. Whether naughty or nice, all are encouraged to send their heartfelt wishes for a truly magical holiday season.

For more information about this or other seasonal events, visit BvilleParks.org or contact the Bensenville Park District at 630-766-7015.

Bensenville, Ill. (December 1, 2024) — Parents looking for enriching activities to keep kids engaged over the holidays and during school breaks can take advantage of Fischer Farm’s upcoming camps. The programs, which run from 8:30 a.m. to noon, are designed to combine fun, creativity, and hands-on learning in a historic farm setting.

Holiday Break Farm Camp, Dec. 26-27, 2024, and Jan. 2-3, 2025: Campers will enjoy interactive history lessons, crafts, games, and outdoor exploration. Each day offers a unique itinerary, ensuring an exciting experience every time. Parents are encouraged to pack a nut-free snack and water bottle and ensure kids are dressed appropriately for the weather and farm environment, including indoor shoes for the farmhouse.

MLK Day Off Camp, Jan. 20, 2025: Kids can celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day by engaging in creative arts and crafts, games and hands-on activities designed to entertain and educate.

President’s Day Off Camp, Feb. 17, 2025: This camp offers an opportunity for children to participate in outdoor fun and interactive projects during the school holiday.

“These programs provide an opportunity for kids to connect with nature, explore history and get creative while enjoying their time off school,” said Christine Shiel, Fischer Farm Manager. “We’re proud to offer activities that are both fun and educational.”

Camp fees are $35 per day, $29 for those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries. Parents can register for one day or multiple sessions at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville. Spaces are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

Enrollment for Holiday Break Camp is open now. Registration for MLK and Presidents Day Camps begins Jan. 7-8. For additional details, visit BvilleParks.org or call 630-766-7015.

Fischer Farm, located at 16W680 Old Grand Ave., is one of Illinois’ oldest remaining homesteads. The farm hosts a variety of educational programs and events year-round, providing visitors a chance to explore history in a hands-on environment.

Bensenville, Ill. (November 20, 2024) – Celebrate the season with fitness and festivity at the Wood Street Fitness Jingle Zumba Brunch & Bubbly Bash, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson St., Bensenville.

Participants will kick off the event with 45 minutes of high-energy, holiday-themed Zumba led by spirited instructors. The session blends low- and high-intensity exercises in an interval-style workout that’s accessible for all fitness levels.
Following the workout, guests can indulge in a festive holiday brunch spread and enjoy an hour of bottomless mimosas to toast the season.

“Jingle Zumba Brunch & Bubbly Bash combines the joy of holiday celebrations with a fun, energizing workout,” says Recreation Supervisor Ty Beshiri, who oversees the fitness program. “It’s a perfect way to stay active and share the festive spirit with others in the community.”

Participants should bring a towel and water for the class. IDs are required upon registration and at check-in. Please note that the Core Class Pass is not valid for this event.

The registration fee is $39 ($37 for in-district residents). Registration closes Dec. 4, with a minimum of 20 participants required and a maximum of 40.

Reserve your spot at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville. For more information, visit WoodStFitness.com or contact Wood Street Fitness at 630-766-7015.

Auditions to be held Dec. 18-19 at DGLC

Bensenville, Ill. (November 19, 2024) – The Bensenville Park District will host a district-wide talent show at 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 18, at the White Pines Golf Club, located at 500 W. Jefferson Street in Bensenville. This free community event offers a stage for adults and children to showcase their unique abilities, from singing and dancing to acting, rapping, poetry and even yodeling.

To participate in the talent show, performers must audition between 4 and 9 p.m. on Wednesday, December 18, or Thursday, December 19, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville. Additional audition dates may be added. Performers of all ages and talents are welcome to audition.

“Can you sing, dance, act, rap or yodel? This is your chance to shine,” says Kaitlyn Whitehead, Recreation Supervisor for Cultural and Fine Arts. “We encourage participants of all ages to step out of their comfort zone and share their talents with our supportive community.”

Audition time slots can be reserved ahead of time by signing up at the Deer Grove Leisure Center front desk or on the day of auditions. Performers will be allotted 15 minutes to showcase their skills.

Admission to the Bensenville Park District Talent Show is free, and a reception will follow, featuring hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Guests are encouraged to RSVP in advance at the Deer Grove Leisure Center or online at Eventbrite.com.

For more information, visit BvilleParks.org or contact the Deer Grove Leisure Center at 630-766-7015.

Subie’s Holiday Workshop, festive music, lights, Santa highlight free Dec. 7 event

Bensenville, Ill. (November 18, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District invites area residents to welcome the holiday season at Farmside Christmas from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 7, at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Avenue, Bensenville.

New in 2024 will be live music from various community organizations. Blackhawk Middle School will perform from 2-2:30 p.m., followed by the Fenton High School Banda Club from 2:45-3:20 p.m., Gracie Zelasko from 3:35-4:10 p.m. and Zion Lutheran will conclude the musical program from 4:25-5 p.m.

Visitors will be able to get into the holiday spirit with festive music and other activities and attractions that include horse and carriage rides and the live farm animals before warming up around a bonfire with hot chocolate and treats.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to greet patrons in the Granary Barn, where they can pick up a holiday cookie and get their pictures taken! Sunset is at 4:20 p.m., so the lights in the tree on the front lawn and throughout the grounds should be fully visible by 4:30 p.m.
Additionally, those attending will be able to explore the inside of the farm house, where they can see the dining room Christmas display and visit the gift shop for additional holiday purchases.

Subie’s Holiday Workshop, sponsored by Grand Subaru, returns in 2024, offering a place where attendees can work on holiday crafts and children can enter the holiday coloring contest. Grand Subaru will be giving away commemorative holiday ornaments to families while supplies last.

Grand Subaru General Manager Ryan Drouin says, “We are proud to support community events such as the Bensenville Park District’s Farmside Christmas that provide a platform for individuals to come together, share experiences and build meaningful connections.”
Admission and parking are FREE. Accessible parking is available on site. For more information about the event, including a schedule, parking, map and directions, visit BvilleParks.org/farmsidechristmas.

Fischer Farm is owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District. It is among the oldest remaining homesteads in DuPage County, with several restored historic structures, including a log house built circa 1836 and a farmhouse circa 1919. The land just north of the cabin has been left untouched and is valued for its original seedbeds. The property borders Fischer Woods, a forest preserve with the remnants of prairie, wetland and woodland ecosystems.

Holiday baking competition open to anyone aged 21 or over

Bensenville, Ill. (November 16, 2024) — Those 21 and over can show off their baking skills in the Bensenville Park District’s Young at Heart Cookie Bake-Off, 2-3 p.m. Monday, December 16, in the Oak Room at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

Participants are encouraged to embrace the holiday spirit by wearing festive Christmas sweaters or holiday attire as they compete for the honor of the best cookies within the Bensenville Park District. The event will feature holiday music, adding to the festive atmosphere, and prizes will be awarded to the top bakers for their creative and delicious treats.

Bakers should bring at least two dozen cookies to share with judges and attendees. While the registration fee is $8 ($5 for in-district residents), those entering the cookie competition can participate free of charge.

The deadline to register is Wednesday, December 11, so aspiring bakers should act quickly to secure their spot. Registration is available at the Deer Grove Leisure Center or by calling 630-766-7015.

Celebrate the holiday season with friends, fun, and fantastic cookies at this cheerful community event!