News

Three new classes to debut week of February 26

Bensenville, Ill. (February 12, 2024)—The Bensenville Park District introduced three brand-new art programs set to commence at the end of February 2024. The classes—Colorful Canvas, Etch a Sketchers and Sculpting Studio—cater to individuals of all experience levels and offer a unique opportunity for residents to explore their creative side. Registration is open now at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, located at 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

“We are excited to bring these new art programs to the community,” says Recreation Supervisor Silvia Acevedo, noting the three classes are being offered to two age groups (ages 9-14 from 5-5:45 p.m. and ages 14+ from 6-6:45 p.m.). “Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, our classes provide a welcoming environment to explore and express your artistic talents.”

Unleash that inner artist in this Colorful Canvas acrylic painting class, where participants will delve into the world of art, learning essential techniques such as blending, creating texture and exploring captivating color effects. Regardless of experience, all are welcome to join this vibrant class that takes place Mondays, from February 26 to April 22.

For those who have mastered the Etch a Sketch and are ready to translate those skills onto paper, the Etch a Sketchers sketching class is the perfect fit. Students will delve into drawing techniques including values, shading, proportion, and more. Classes take place Tuesdays, beginning February 27 through April 23.

Unearth that inner Michelangelo in the Sculpting Studio class. Students of all experience levels will explore a variety of mediums such as wood, cardboard, clay and more to bring their artistic visions to life. This sculpting adventure occurs Thursdays, February 29 through April 25.

All classes consist of eight sessions, and there will be no classes during the week of March 25. The class fee is $75, with a discounted rate of $60 available for residents living within the district. Early registration is required, and participants can secure their spot by registering one week in advance at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.

For more information and to register, please visit the Deer Grove Leisure Center at 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville or by calling (630) 766-7015.

District will showcase 2024-25 capital plans and vote to honor former commissioner

 

Bensenville, Ill. (February 9, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District invites district residents to attend its upcoming park board meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, at the White Pines Golf Club, located at 500 W. Jefferson in Bensenville.

The agenda for the meeting is set to showcase the park district’s 2023 achievements and present the 2024-25 capital improvement plan.

Board President Rich Johnson expresses enthusiasm about the direction the park district is heading, stating, “We are thrilled to share the remarkable accomplishments of 2023 and present our ambitious plans for the future. Our recent achievements, such as the introduction of a new, accessible playground and fitness trail at Breiter-Palm Park in 2022, and the installation of a brand-new playground at Wood Dale’s Arbor Park in 2023, showcase our commitment to creating inclusive recreational spaces for our community. Moreover, the receipt of a $570,000 OSLAD grant for the renovation of Sunrise Park in 2024 further demonstrates our dedication to enhancing the quality of our parks.”

The agenda also includes a vote to introduce Jim Geils Family Golf Nights at White Pines, in honor of the service of the late park board commissioner. Geils, an avid golfer who passed away in 2023, was appointed to the Bensenville Park District Board of Commissioners in May 2013 and was elected to the board in 2015. In his capacity as commissioner, he served as treasurer from May 2013 to May 2016 and then as secretary from June 2016 until May 2021.

“We see this as a tremendous opportunity to continue our mission of providing exceptional recreational experiences for residents while honoring Geils’ service and love of golf,” says Executive Director Joe Vallez. “From the success of new fitness classes at Breiter-Palm Park to the introduction of new programs at Fischer Farm and the Bensenville Railroad Museum and a planned movie night at Arbor Park, we are actively working to meet the diverse needs and interests of our community.”

The district encourages community members to attend the park board meeting to learn more about its achievements and exciting future plans. The meeting will be held in the banquet hall at White Pines. The full agenda will be posted in advance of the meeting at BvilleParks.org.

Bensenville, Ill. (January 31, 2024) —The Bensenville Park District will receive an award of a $570,100 grant from the State of Illinois’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program as announced the Governor’s Office. The award will help fund the upcoming renovation of Sunrise Park.

Sunrise Park Concept Plan“Receiving the OSLAD grant is transformational for the Bensenville Park District and the community we serve,” says Executive Director Joseph Vallez, noting the project is one of many capital improvement projects planned for 2024-25 as part of the Bensenville Park District 2.0 capital plan. “The improvements to Sunrise Park will enhance the quality of life for those in our district, allowing those of all ages and abilities to enjoy new opportunities to get out and play at this renovated space.”

The program, which is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, will distribute nearly $55 million in state grants for 111 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities.

The proposed Sunrise Park improvements include redevelopment of the playground, a futsal court, two pickleball courts, half-court basketball, two soccer fields, a new pollinator/butterfly area with interpretive signage, site furnishings, walking paths and turf restoration. In addition, the proposed accessible play area will provide opportunities for children of all abilities to play in the park. The accessible walking paths and the poured-in-place rubber surfacing will provide equitable access to the recreational amenities available at this location by providing accessible routes to the playground, soccer fields and courts. The master plan was developed by Des Plaines-based JSD, Inc.

“On behalf of the Bensenville Park District and the residents we serve, we are grateful for the support of the State of Illinois, our legislators—Senate President Don Harmon and State Representative Norma Hernandez, residents and partners for making this possible,” says Board President Rich Johnson. “Together everyone achieves more, and we are excited to get started on this project in earnest.”

The $1.1 million Sunrise Park project will commence in 2024 and should be completed over the course of a year. The project is one of many planned as part of the Bensenville Park District 2.0 capital improvement program that contains approximately $5 million in community investment directed at neighborhood parks and facilities that directly benefit the populations of Bensenville and Wood Dale the district serves. Past projects include the completion of the Breiter-Palm Park playground and fitness trail in 2022 and playground construction at Arbor Park in 2023. An update on Bensenville Park District 2.0 is planned as part of the Board of Commissioners meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 21, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

Sunrise Park, located at the intersection of Memorial and Marion Streets, consists of 7.3 acres of land. The park has a picnic area and shelter available for rentals between May 1 and September 30 in addition to the improvements to the park planned for 2024.

Bensenville, Ill. (January 30, 2024) —The Bensenville Park District named Nicole Chesak, CPRP, life coach, as the new superintendent of recreation, effective January 30. Chesak was hired by the park district as recreation supervisor in December 2023. With an extensive background in managing diverse recreational programs and facilities, Chesak brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new role.

“Nicole Chesak’s extensive resume reflects her commitment to excellence in the field of parks and recreation,” says Bensenville Park District Executive Director Joe Vallez. “We welcome her as a valuable addition to our leadership team, confident in her ability to contribute to the district’s continued success.”

Chesak, a former women’s basketball standout, earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis. She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and has been an active member of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) since January 2001. She has held various leadership positions within the organization, including serving as the IPRA Annual Conference Workshop Chair and the IPRA Recreation Section Director. In 2006, Chesak was recognized with the IPRA Young Professional of the Year Award.

Chesak’s career highlights include her role as the director of the White Deer Run Golf Club, where she successfully managed all aspects of the club’s operations, including activities, guest relations and community engagement. Her accomplishments at the club include coordinating policies, developing operating procedures and overseeing budget implementation.

In her position as the director of athletics at the Wheaton Park District, Chesak demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by restructuring the department and managing a $5.9 million budget. Her achievements include directing the Wings Spring Classic Tournament with 260 teams and securing significant annual sponsorships for athletic programs. She also played a pivotal role in the $500,000 renovation of the athletic complex.

As the superintendent of recreation at Hoffman Estates Park District, Chesak managed an $8 million recreation department budget, overseeing full-time and seasonal staff. She increased field rentals by 30 percent, implemented an anti-bully policy and developed the HE University staff training program. Chesak also partnered a with school district for iCompete, a mentoring initiative for at-risk youth.

Chesak’s tenure at the Glendale Heights Parks and Recreation Department showcased her skills in managing a $3.4 million budget and leading a $6 million facility renovation project. She developed and implemented various programs, including a scholarship program and a customer service training program. Chesak’s dedication to community engagement was evident in her role as a committee member for Character Counts and the Senior Committees.

“I am thrilled to serve as the superintendent of recreation,” says Chesak, noting the opportunity to oversee the Bensenville Water Park in addition to recreational programs. “I look forward to the challenge and leveraging my experience to enhance the recreational offerings and community engagement in the district.”

The Bensenville Park District announced the following changes to the basketball schedule on Saturday, January 27:

Basketball Games for Saturday January 27, 2024
WEST SIDE GYM AT DGLC – GAMES ARE STILL ON AS SCHEDULED
LOCATION CHANGES FOR EAST SIDE GAMES AND FULL COURT GAMES:
   
Noon Bensenville 6 vs Bensenville Bulldogs Tioga Elementary School
1 p.m. Bensenville Theis vs Bensenville 5 Tioga Elementary School
2 p.m. Bensenville 6 vs Bensenville 4 Tioga Elementary School
3:15 p.m. Hanover Park  vs Glendale 3 Mendez Tioga Elementary School
4:15 p.m. Bensenville 7/8 vs WIBA 1 Tioga Elementary School
5:15 p.m. Bensenville  7/8 vs WIBA 2 Tioga Elementary School
Tioga Elementary School 212 Memorial Rd, Bensenville, IL 60106
Gym door is next to the playground

Bensenville, Ill. (January 19, 2024)—The White Pines Golf Club invites area residents to indulge in the perfect blend of tranquility and refreshment at its Yoga & Mimosa event at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 17. Participants will be immersed in a harmonious morning of yoga practice and savor the serenity of the moment, all within the elegant ambiance of White Pines Banquet Hall located at 500 W. Jefferson St. in Bensenville.

Unwind and rejuvenate as experienced yoga instructors guide through a blissful yoga session, followed by a delightful opportunity to enjoy mimosas. This unique event provides an ideal setting to relax, recharge, and connect with others who share a passion for wellness.

An article by John Hopkins Medicine states yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility. It helps with back pain relief and eases arthritis symptoms. Regular yoga practice may reduce levels of stress and body-wide inflammation, contributing to healthier hearts. In fact, yoga addresses several factors contributing to heart disease, including high blood pressure and excess weight. Yoga may also lead to “more energy and lighter moods.” According to the National Institutes of Health, yoga supports stress management, mental health, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss and quality sleep. The NIH and other organizations have found yoga promotes self-care.

Champagne mimosas offer a number of benefits as well, according to research cited in a December 2015 New York Post article. Scientists at the United Kingdom’s University of Reading found Champagne improves memory. Head researcher, Jeremy Spencer, Ph.D., also suggests Champagne has the potential to reduce strokes and heart disease. One study found that the sparkling wine, which contains high levels of polyphenols — anti-oxidants found grapes — can lower blood pressure and prevent heart problems. The article also cites a dermatologist who says that Champagne detoxifies the skin with antioxidants.

Reservations for Yoga & Mimosas are available now, with full payment of $25 required by February 12. Secure a spot by calling 630-238-4936. Please note that spaces are limited, and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bensenville, Ill. (January 17, 2024)— Fischer Farm is offering farm-raised pork products for sale to local consumers at its store located inside the farmhouse located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville.

Products include ground pork, rib chops, blade chops, smoked pork shanks, smoked pork hocks, ham steaks, smoked pork butt, spare ribs and tenderloin and more. Prices vary by product and weight. Visit the store to see the complete selection or call 630-834-3152 for product availability.

Fischer Farm grounds are open from dawn to dusk daily. The farmhouse and select buildings are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Register by February 7 with final payment due March 27

Bensenville, Ill. (January 14, 2024)—The Bensenville Park District, along with the Wood Dale Park District, is offering a five-day, four-night guided tour of Niagara Falls and Toronto June 3-7, and those wishing to register have until Wednesday, February 7, to sign up with a deposit on the trip.

Luxury motorcoach transportation is included in the trip, as well as eight meals—four breakfasts and four dinners. The trip departs at 8 a.m. Monday, June 3, from the Wood Dale Park District, 111 E. Foster Ave. in Wood Dale. After traveling on the first day, the group will enjoy an included dinner before checking into a Niagara Falls area hotel.

The second day, Tuesday, begins with a continental breakfast before departing on the Niagara Falls area guided tour, which includes a visit to the marvel of modern engineering, Welland Shipping Canal, and beautiful Queen Victoria Park, home to one of the largest floral clocks. The day concludes with dinner at a local restaurant.

On day three (Wednesday), travelers will enjoy a continental breakfast before departing for a guided tour of Toronto and a visit to Canada’s magnificent Casa Loma castle. The evening concludes following dinner at a local restaurant.

Following a continental breakfast on Thursday, the group will enjoy a breathtaking sailing trip to the base of the horseshoe falls on a Hornblower Niagara Cruise, providing an “awe-inspiring view of the mighty Niagara,” according to Diamond Tours, the trip operator. Then tour the historic Niagara-on-the-Lake, full of 19th century Canadian charm. Later, enjoy dinner and a visit to the Fallsview Casino for some gaming action before returning to the hotel.

On Friday, June 7, trip goers will enjoy a continental breakfast before returning to Wood Dale.

The fee for the trip is $909 per person based on double-occupancy. Add $137 for a single. A deposit of $75 is due upon registration with final payments due March 27. Registrants must bring a valid U.S. passport or passport card to participate in this tour. Optional travel insurance is available at TravelConfident.com.

For more information, reservations or questions, contact Trent Grossman (tgrossman@bvilleparks.org, 630-766-7015).

Winter weather

While snow on the ground may look delightful–especially during the holiday season–extreme temperatures may be frightful. Exposure to extreme cold can cause a number of health problems, including hypothermia.

The Bensenville Park District’s Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville, is among the local warming centers where any resident can go during periods of extreme cold temperatures to stay warm and safe. The Bensenville Emergency Management Agency has implemented a two-level system to assist in the allocation of resources during an extreme cold event.

Additionally, the National Weather Service offers the following winter weather safety tips:

  • Make sure your home Emergency Kit is stocked and winter storm ready
  • Use sand to improve traction and apply products that melt ice on
    walkways
  • Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources
    may be cut off
  • Keep emergency heating equipment and fuel so you can keep at
    least one room of your house warm enough to be livable
  • Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your family knows
    how to use them.
  • Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply. Insulate
    walls, attics, doors, and windows.
  • Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.
  • Do not overexert yourself or work outside for extended periods of time.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency offers guidance in its Winter Weather Preparedness Guide as well.

Bensenville Park District dance for those ages 40+

 

Bensenville, Ill. (January 5, 2024)—The Bensenville Park District invites adults aged 40 and older to its ‘Second Chance Dance’ from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, February 4, at the White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson Street, Bensenville.

Formerly known as the ‘Senior Prom,’ the dance has been rebranded to be more inclusive. The dance offers attendees the opportunity to relive the glitz and glam of a high school prom and includes dinner live music and photos. Chicken and vegetarian entrees and a cash bar are available.

The Senior Prom is $20 per person or $35 for couples. Those interested in registering can do so at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville. Registration will be open December 5, 2023, and ends Wednesday, January 31, 2024.