News

Bensenville Park District offers several fun, engaging childcare activities

Bensenville, Ill. (March 15, 2024) — As spring break approaches, the Bensenville Park District is at the ready with exciting childcare activities for children of all ages. From March 25 to April 1, parents can choose from a variety of engaging programs to keep their children entertained and enriched during the break.

Days Off School Spring Break, running from March 25 to 28 and April 1, offers childcare services from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children will enjoy a day filled with supervised activities, including games, crafts and outdoor play. Drop off and pick up take place at the Maple/Elm Room in the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC). Parents are reminded to provide a sack lunch and water bottle each day, while breakfast and an afternoon snack will be provided in this peanut-free zone.

For those seeking an interactive experience with “man’s best friend,” the Dog Days Spring Break Camp will run from March 25 to 27. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., children will engage in interactive lessons involving dogs provided by Paws4Kids4Paws. Attendees are advised to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe footwear. Fees for this camp are $155, with a discounted rate of $120 available for those living within park district boundaries.

Nature enthusiasts will love the Spring Break Farm Camp, taking place from 8:30 a.m. to noon March 25 to 29. Children will explore the wonders of the farm through hiking, games, crafts and animal encounters. Participants should bring a peanut-free snack, water bottle and wear suitable footwear for outdoor activities. The fee for this camp is $39 per day, with an in-district rate of $29.

To add a touch of humor to the break, the April Fools Day Off camp will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Monday, April 1. Children will enjoy a day filled with funny jokes, crafts, games and an opportunity to meet the farm’s playful goats. As with other camps, attendees should bring a peanut-free snack, water bottle and wear appropriate footwear for outdoor activities. The fee for this camp is $39, $29 in-district.

Sign up for all spring break childcare activities in advance. Registration takes place at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, located at 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville, or by calling 630-766-7015.

For more information and to view the full schedule of spring and summer activities, visit www.bvilleparks.org. Summer program registration begins Tuesday, April 2, for in-district residents. All others may register beginning April 3.

Farm fresh eggs, pork products, popcorn and more available at gift shop

Bensenville, Ill. (March 8, 2024) — Fischer Farm, nestled at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville, announces the availability of farm-fresh eggs for sale at $3.50 per half dozen. Recently licensed by the State of Illinois, Fischer Farm is now offering a taste of the farm to the community.

The farm, a cherished landmark, has expanded its offerings beyond eggs to include farm-produced pork products, popcorn and various other items available in its gift shop, conveniently located inside the historic farmhouse. The gift shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and purchase a range of locally produced goods.

Whether a culinary enthusiast seeking the freshest ingredients or looking to support local agriculture, Fischer Farm is fast becoming a go-to destination for fresh, quality products. The farm’s commitment to providing high-quality items aligns with its mission of preserving the area’s rich agricultural heritage.

“We are excited to share the bounty of Fischer Farm with the community. Our farm-fresh eggs are a testament to our dedication to delivering wholesome, locally sourced products,” says Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel.

To learn more about Fischer Farm’s offerings, visit the gift shop or explore the farm grounds, open dawn to dusk daily. For more information about Fischer Farm, visit BvilleParks.org/FischerFarm.

Unlock that quilt’s value at the “All Around the House” Quilt Show April 6-7

Bensenville, Ill. (March 6, 2024) — Ever wonder about the worth of that quilt tucked away in the closet? The Bensenville Park District invites the public to discover the hidden value of their quilts at the “All Around the House” Quilt Show, taking place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, April 6-7, at Fischer Farm.

Quilts, whether newly crafted or cherished family heirlooms, hold intrinsic value beyond their utilitarian purpose. Recognizing the worth of these quilts is crucial, and that’s where quilt appraisals come in. AQS Certified Appraiser Lynn Contri will be available by appointment both days to provide detailed assessments of these quilts. Walk-ins are also welcome and appreciated as the schedule allows.

Why appraise a quilt? Contrary to common belief, quilt appraisals aren’t just for antique quilts. Even a recently made quilt may have a significant value when considering factors such as time spent and material costs. Appraisals are essential for insurance purposes, ensuring that in the unfortunate event of fire or damage, victims are compensated for the true value of their quilt rather than a generic replacement.

To schedule an appointment with Contri, call 630-254-5511. The written appraisal, available for the reasonable fee of $60, will thoroughly document the quilt’s physical description, including measurements, stitching details, fabric and batting type. Contri will assess the general condition of the quilt, providing accurate descriptions such as poor, fair, good or excellent. She will also inquire about any additional information that may enhance the quilt’s value.

The “All Around the House” Quilt Show at Fischer Farm will feature more than 100 quilts, including antique and contemporary pieces. Doll quilts, wall quilts, crib quilts and bed quilts will be showcased throughout the 1919 farmhouse, creating a delightful visual experience for attendees. To register a quilt for display at the show, please contact Christine Shiel, cshiel@bvilleparks.org.

In addition to the quilt show, visitors can explore the Quilter’s Barn Sale, offering a variety of items such as books, patterns, fabric, blocks, tops, quilts and more.

Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover the stories and value behind those quilts at the “All Around the House” Quilt Show. Join in a weekend of appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of quilting.

Fischer Farm is located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue, Bensenville, situated east of Illinois Route 83 and west of Church Road. Admission to the quilt show is $5 for adults, $2 for ages 5-15, and free for children ages 4 and under.

Sign up through March 22; practices begin March 26

Bensenville, Ill. (March 5, 2024) — The Bensenville Park District and Bensenville Raiders youth football program are joining forces for a spring flag football league for children between the ages of 5 and 14 in 2024.

“We are pleased to join with the Bensenville Raiders once again this year to provide this spring flag football league,” says Recreation Supervisor Breana Aponte. “The program offers another chance for children to stay active outside of our soccer leagues.”

The flag football league will be broken into distinct age groups based on enrollment, and teams will be determined based on skill level.

“Spring flag football is a great entry to the sport and also a chance for young players to develop their skills outside of the regular football season,” Raiders President Tye Brooks says. “We are looking forward to continuing the growth of football in Bensenville through our partnership with the park district.”

The Raiders’ mission is to teach football and to help youth on and off the football field. Teams will practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with Saturday games (occasionally Sunday, if needed).  Practices will take place at locations, days and times determined by the coaches, and game times and locations will be determined later based on the number of players and teams.

The fee is $100 and includes player jerseys. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville, through March 22. Email BAponte@BvilleParks.org for more information.

Grand Subaru to sponsor free event at Splash Pad and Deer Grove Leisure Center Gym

 

Bensenville, Ill. (February 29, 2024)—Hop to it! It’s fun for the whole family when the Bensenville Park District’s annual Egg Hunt and Eggstravaganza returns Saturday, March 23, to the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad and the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville. The event is free, and no registration is necessary.

The egg hunt begins at 10 a.m. for little ones age 3 and under, with other age groups commencing at 10:15 (ages 4-5) and 10:30 a.m. (ages 6-7). The hunt begins at 10:45 a.m. for ages 8-9 and those age 10 and older will begin at 11 a.m. Thousands of candy-filled eggs will be scattered across splash pad, just waiting to be found. Don’t forget to bring a bag or container to hold them all!

After the egg hunt, be sure to bring the whole family into the DGLC for fun and games, crafts and inflatables. All are invited to take photos with the Easter Bunny, sponsored by Grand Subaru, until the event ends at 12:30 p.m. Photos will be posted the following week on the park district website, BvilleParks.org.

For more information, call 630-766-7015 or visit the park district website.

Enroll now in “Luck of the Artist” and “Eggcited for Art”

Bensenville, Ill. (February 29, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District is offering two new holiday-inspired art programs, Luck of the Artist and Eggcited for Art, in the month of March, offering young people ages 6-10 a chance to unleash their creativity in festive and engaging ways. Registration is now open for these exciting classes taking place at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville.

Luck of the Artist – Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Art

  • Date: Saturday, March 16
  • Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Calling all art enthusiasts and lovers of the color gold! Sign up for the Luck of the Artist, a St. Patrick’s Day themed art class where participants can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Irish. Explore the artistic side of St. Patrick’s Day and create a masterpiece that captures the luck of the Irish. Register by March 11 at the Deer Grove Leisure Center to secure a spot in this creative celebration.

Eggcited for Art – Easter-themed Creative Fun

  • Date: Saturday, March 30
  • Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Get ready for a creative Easter adventure with Eggcited for Art! Decorate vibrant and fun eggs in this festive art class. Whether egg preference is sunny side up or scrambled, this class promises a colorful and enjoyable experience. Register by March 25 at the Deer Grove Leisure Center to hop into the world of artistic Easter fun.

Both programs are priced at just $20, with a discounted rate of $15 available for those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries. Secure a spot by registering in advance and embrace the opportunity to create unique art pieces in a fun and welcoming environment.

For more information, call 630-766-7015 or visit the park district website, BvilleParks.org.

Hour-long water service shut-offs at DGLC, White Pines, Pine Room

The Bensenville Park District will be completing two maintenance projects, affecting service at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (1000 W. Wood Street), White Pines Golf Club (500 W. Jefferson) and Pine Room (531 S. Church) on the morning of Thursday, February 22.

DGLC RTU Installation MapThe Fitness Center HVAC roof top unit is scheduled to be replaced beginning at approximately 7:30 a.m. Parking on the west side of the DGLC will be limited due to placement of a crane at the southwest corner of the DGLC parking lot. The building’s main entrance will remain open during the installation. This construction is expected to last throughout the morning. Wood Street Fitness will be closed briefly at some point during that time.

The DGLC, White Pines and Pine Room will also be undergoing water meter changes, which will necessitate shutting off water for approximately one hour. Hand sanitizers will be installed at the DGLC during that time, and staff will flush toilets as needed with non-potable water. The schedule for water shut-off is as follows:

  • 8-9 a.m. White Pines
  • 9-10 a.m. Deer Grove Leisure Center
  • 10-11 a.m. Pine Room

Please make note of this maintenance schedule when planning a visit to these facilities.

Take advantage of the longer days beginning Feb. 26

Bensenville, Ill. (February 19, 2024)— The White Pines Golf Club welcomes the arrival of spring with spring rates in effect starting Monday, February 26.

“White Pines is excited to welcome spring,” says PGA Golf Professional Bill Roper. “White Pines is open year-round, weather permitting, and we look forward to having many golfers return after hibernating for the winter.”

Weekend rates are $59 per person riding and $44 walking from open to 12:59 p.m., $41 riding and $31 walking from 1 to 2:59 p.m. and $28 riding ($18 walking) from 3 p.m. to close.

Weekday rates are $42 riding and $32 walking before 1 p.m. and $32 riding and $22 walking 1 p.m. to close Monday through Friday.

Tee times may be booked at WhitePinesGolf.com.

Parents invited to learn about programs at March 4-8 preview week

Mrs. B celebrates 40 years
Cindy Banaszynski (third from left) celebrated 40 years at the Bensenville Park District in fall 2023.

Bensenville, Ill. (February 14, 2024)— Ever since joining the Bensenville Park District as a ‘Mom and Tot’ supervisor in 1983, Cindy Banaszynski—known by most in the community as “Mrs. B”—has both inspired and cherished the aha moments of the children enrolled in the district’s early childhood programs. And in those 40-plus years, she has seen a lot of them as she progressed from substitute to lead preschool teacher.

“I always love that ‘Mrs. B, I can do this by myself’ moment when a child realizes they can do something all by themselves, eyes-lighting up, with a big smile on their face,” Banaszynski says, noting activities such as zipping up a coat, writing a name or even figuring out how to use a soap dispenser. “Those are the best moments!”

Although actual records aren’t readily available, it is estimated that Mrs. B has taught more than a thousand preschool children, preparing them for the social, emotional and academic rigors of elementary school and beyond. The tiny tot curriculum she developed is based on Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards, emphasizing self-discovery, teamwork and independent thinking. Children are introduced to language arts, literacy, math, social studies, science and nature exploration through a variety of learning centers and hands-on activities in a nurturing environment that addresses the individual needs of each child. The program includes local field trips, guest speakers, nature exploration and special activities such as raising baby chicks, spring planting and a graduation ceremony.

“I have been a member of NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) for many years. This nationally-recognized program provides me with workshops, classes, mentors and other forms of information and literature to help me stay current with what is happening in the field of early childhood,” which she has supplemented with coursework at College of DuPage, Oakton College and Harper College to provide children what they need to succeed, she says.

Former students and parents love her. A photo celebrating Banaszynski’s milestone was recently posted on the Bensenville Park District’s Facebook page, @BvilleParks, and the community showed how they feel about her.

Lisa DeSimone says, “Congratulations Mrs. B! You’re awesome at what you do, and my kids loved having you as their teacher.”

“Thank you for all the young minds you have guided and touched,” Cindy Collins says, calling her the “best teacher ever and one of the most patient with preschoolers.”

Karen Richardson echoes those sentiments, calling Banaszynski a treasure, touching “the lives of so many kiddos, getting them started to the joys of learning and self-confidence.”

Wood Dale Alderman Randy Messina says Banaszynski is a legend in his ward.

Banaszynski says much has changed since she has started, most notably the technology. Personal computing became more prominent in the 1980s, and today that technology is increasingly portable, fitting in the palm of a hand in the form of a smartphone or tablet. However, advanced the technology, there is still a need for children to learn life skills.

Tiny Tot Preview Week March 4-8“Children need technology, but they still need to learn to play with someone and how to use other school and play tools such as paint, playdough, scissors, pencils and crayons. They still need to learn how to complete a task, get the items they need to make a project, share them with others, wait their turn to use them and then, when finished, put everything back where it belongs,” she explains.

The Bensenville Park District offers three distinct early childhood programs, with a preview week March 4-8 for parents to check out the programs for themselves: Play with me for toddlers 18-30 months, Little Sprouts for ages 2-3 and Tiny Tot Preschool for those ages 3-4 and 4-5. Contact Banaszynski at 630-766-7015 ext. 117 or email ttschool@BvilleParks.org to schedule a visit.

“I love working for the Bensenville Park District. I get to interact with so many amazing people that inspire me to do my best for the families we serve,” Banaszynski concludes. “I hope I can help the families we serve realize what an asset the Bensenville Park District and staff are to our community and that we need to continue to help modernize and grow the district.”

Save 10 percent on season passes through March 30

Bensenville, Ill. (February 13, 2024)—Season passes for the Bensenville Park District Water Park & Splash Pad go on sale Friday, March 1, and park-goers can save 10 percent on pass purchases through Saturday, March 30.

Season passholders receive unlimited admission to the Water Park & Splash Pad, free and unlimited admission to aqua fitness classes, discount admission to water park events and three free guest passes.

Park district season pass fees for the 2024 season have remained flat for two straight years. The regular and sale season pass rates are as follows for the general public, and those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries receive discounted as follows:

  • Child/Teen (ages 3-17) – $132 | $110 (In-District), $118 | $99 (In-District) through March 30;
  • Adult (ages 18+) – $144 | $120 (In-District), $129 | $108 (In-District) through March 30;
  • Senior (ages 55+) – $132 | $110 (In-District), $118 | $99 (In-District) through March 30;
  • Family of two –$216 | $180 (In-District), $194 | $162 (In-District) through March 30;
  • Family of three –$252 | $210 (In-District), $226 | $189 (In-District) through March 30 and
  • Family of four –$288 | $240 (In-District), $259 | $216 (In-District) through March 30.

Each additional family member above a family of four is $45 each ($40 after 10 percent discount through March 30). Complete information may be found on the park district website, BvilleParks.org/waterpark.

Season passes may be purchased at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville Monday through Saturday. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Drop-off registrations can be delivered at any time the DGLC is open.

The Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad, located at 1100 W. Wood Street, is a family-friendly facility that features a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot splash pad, a sun deck and a full-service concession stand. The park district offers swim lessons as well as specially themed days and special events throughout the summer. The facility is open for rentals and hosts birthday parties and other activities.

The water park is open noon to 7 p.m. daily. Opening day is Memorial Day, Monday, May 27. The pool season runs through Sunday, August 11.