News

UPDATE: The Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 22, has been canceled due to weather. 

Bensenville, Ill. (September 12, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District announced the music lineup for its Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, taking place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Pavilion at White Pines, 500 W. Jefferson, Bensenville. The event will feature a blend of mariachi, traditional dance and a highly anticipated Selena tribute performance by La Obra.

The live music stage will open at 11 a.m. with a performance by Mariachi Palmero, bringing traditional mariachi music to the celebration. From noon to 12:45 p.m., Mariachi Palmero will be joined by Ballet Folklorico Tayahua, offering a colorful showcase of traditional Mexican dance. The afternoon continues with additional performances by Ballet Folklorico Tayahua and a special appearance by La Obra, a Latin music group that will highlight the day with their tribute to the beloved Latin music icon, Selena.

The full music schedule includes:

• 11 a.m.: Mariachi Palmero
• Noon: Mariachi Palmero with Ballet Folklorico Tayahua
• 1-2 p.m.: Ballet Folklorico Tayahua
• 2-4 p.m.: La Obra (Latin rhythms and Selena Tribute Band)

The community is invited to celebrate Hispanic heritage through music, dance and culture. The Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration features authentic food, dancing, games and crafts, as well as local vendors. This program is partially
supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council. For more information about the event, visit BvilleParks.org/HispanicHeritage.

Additional Hispanic Heritage month events include the district’s Lunch Bunch and Bingo on Thursday, Sept. 19, will feature a Mexican luncheon of steak fajitas, rice, beans and salad from Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. On Friday, Sept. 20, Live at White Pines Salsa Night, sponsored by Los Buenos Diaz, features the Latin sounds of Projecto 7. Saturday’s Noche de Película takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the Pavilion at White Pines and will feature the inspiring true story of a Mexican-American astronaut in “A Million Miles Away.”

The White Pines Golf Club—owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District—is more than golf. With 36 holes of championship golf, a full-service restaurant and event facilities, White Pines’ beautiful landscape and exceptional amenities make it a premier destination for golfers and event-goers alike. For more information about White Pines events and activities, visit WhitePinesGolf.com.

Construction began in early September

Bensenville, Ill. (September 11, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District has closed Sunrise Park, located at the intersection of Marion and Memorial Streets, for renovations. The construction is expected to last into summer 2025.

The planned 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.

In January 2024, the park district announced receipt of a $570,100 grant from the State of Illinois’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program, which will help fund the renovation. 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 $1.1 million Sunrise Park 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.

Already, the park district has upgraded its water park with a new swimming pool basin and is updating the decking. New signage was installed at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, which is also receiving new LED lighting in its parking lot. The facility recently had new automatic doors installed in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Upgrades to the Wood Street Fitness Center, located inside the DGLC, are planned for 2025.

The district has completed phase two renovations at Arbor Park, which received a new playground in partnership with KABOOM! and Discover Financial, Inc. The renovations included new signage, trees, a fence and new sidewalks.

The White Pines Golf Club recently installed new digital signage, updated water and electrical service and security cameras. Additional projects include demolition of the driving range barn and parking lot improvements for the Pine Room event space. The Halfway House bathrooms were renovated, and a new gaming room was constructed adjacent to the 37 Bar & Grill in 2024.

The Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC) will soon receive upgrades to the lighting in its parking lot, as the park district modernizes the light standards and replaces existing lighting with more efficient LED service. The facility recently had new automatic doors installed in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Upgrades to the Wood Street Fitness Center, located inside the DGLC, are planned for 2025.

White Pines projects include infrastructure (electric and water) relocation, asphalt improvements, security cameras and new signage. Additional upcoming projects include demolition of the driving range barn to be replaced at a later date. Parking lot improvements are planned for the Pine Room event space, located on Church Rd., in the northwest corner of the club. The Halfway House also received renovation to its bathrooms at the start of the season, and a new gaming room was constructed adjacent to the 37 Bar & Grill. Continued improvements for the club are planned in 2025.

Noche de Película features “A Million Miles Away”

Bensenville, Ill. (September 6, 2024)—The Bensenville Park District announced a new date for its final installment of the summer Movie in the Park series, as Noche de Película—featuring the real-live adventure “A Million Miles Away”—takes place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, September 21, at the Pavilion at White Pines, 500 W. Jefferson, Bensenville. The free event was moved back one day from its originally-published date.

Bring a blanket, friends and family for this special outdoor screening under the tented pavilion. Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase, and the movie begins after dusk. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable movie experience!

“A Million Miles Away” is an inspiring biographical drama that tells the incredible true story of José Hernández, a Mexican-American farmworker who dreams of becoming an astronaut. Despite numerous challenges, including economic hardships and language barriers, Hernández perseveres with the unwavering support of his family and community. The film chronicles his journey from the fields of California to NASA, highlighting his determination, resilience and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. Directed with heart and authenticity, the movie serves as a powerful reminder that with grit and perseverance, anything is possible, even reaching the stars.

Noche de Película is one of four events held by the park district to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month. The district’s Lunch Bunch and Bingo on Thursday, Sept. 19, will feature a Mexican luncheon of steak fajitas, rice, beans and salad from Los Buenos Diaz. On Friday, Sept. 20, Live at White Pines Salsa Night features the Latin sounds of Projecto 7. The week concludes with the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, September 22, at the Pavilion at White Pines, with authentic food, dancing, games and crafts.

The White Pines Golf Club—owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District—is more than golf. With 36 holes of championship golf, a full-service restaurant and event facilities, White Pines’ beautiful landscape and exceptional amenities make it a premier destination for golfers and event-goers alike.

For more information about White Pines events and activities, visit WhitePinesGolf.com.

Bensenville, Ill. (September 5, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District announced that Projecto 7 will return to the Pavilion at White Pines, located at 500 W. Jefferson St., for the Live at White Pines Salsa Night, Friday, September 20. Admission is free, with food from Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill and beverages available for purchase. The event is a day earlier than the originally-published date.

“We’re thrilled to present such a fantastic lineup for this year’s Live at White Pines series,” says White Pines PGA General Manager Andrew Godfrey. “Projecto 7 will bring great energy and entertainment to our community. Salsa Night is a wonderful way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and enjoy the rich cultural diversity of our community.”

Projecto 7 will bring its vibrant sound to the Pavilion for Live at White Pines Salsa Night, presented by Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. Known for their electrifying performances and unique blend of Latin rhythms and contemporary beats, Projecto 7 is sure to provide a night of music that will get everyone dancing. Doors open at 6 p.m. with food for sale from Los Buenos Diaz as well as beverage service, followed by music and dancing.

The Live at White Pines Salsa Night is one of four events held by the park district to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month. The district’s Lunch Bunch and Bingo on Thursday, Sept. 19, will feature a Mexican luncheon of steak fajitas, rice, beans and salad from Los Buenos Diaz. Then Saturday, Sept. 21, the park district presents its noche de pelicula, featuring a showing of “A Million Miles Away,” the real-life story of NASA astronaut Jose Hernandez’ decades long journey from a rural Mexican village to the International Space Station. Admission is free with food and beverages available for purchase at the Pavilion at White Pines. The week concludes with the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, September 22, at the Pavilion at White Pines, with authentic food, dancing, games and crafts.

The White Pines Golf Club—owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District—is more than golf. With 36 holes of championship golf, a full-service restaurant and event facilities, White Pines’ beautiful landscape and exceptional amenities make it a premier destination for golfers and event-goers alike.

For more information about White Pines events and activities, visit WhitePinesGolf.com.

Bensenville, Ill. (September 4, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District invites the community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Pavilion at White Pines, 500 W. Jefferson Street, Bensenville. Admission is free. The program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

The Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans on the history, culture and achievements in the United States and takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22. The celebration will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including authentic food, live music, dancing, games and crafts. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

“We are excited to host this and other special events that highlight the rich cultural heritage of our community,” says Joe Vallez, executive director of the Bensenville Park District. “The Hispanic Heritage Celebration was created for those of all ages to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with great fun, food, music and friends under the tented Pavilion at White Pines.”

The Bensenville Park District is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing exceptional parks, recreational facilities and diverse programs that promote health, wellness and community engagement. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through inspiring films, great music, food and dancing aligns with the district’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

For more information about the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, visit BvilleParks.org/HispanicHeritage or contact the Bensenville Park District at 630-766-7015. For information about White Pines Golf Club, including special events and activities, visit WhitePinesGolf.com.

Bensenville, Ill. (September 3, 2024)— The Bensenville Park District announced new tryout times for the Bville Flyers boys and girls travel basketball program for students in grades 5 to 8. Tryouts take place at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., and are broken down by grade level and gender as follows:

• Girls Grade 5: 3-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Boys Grade 5: 10-11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 15
• Girls Grade 6: 1:45-2:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Boys Grade 6: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Girls Grade 7: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Boys Grade 7: 11:15 a.m.– 12:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Girls Grade 8: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
• Boys Grade 8: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, Sept. 10 and 12.

The Bville Flyers travel basketball program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring young athletes to showcase their skills and passion for basketball. Students will have the chance to try out for the team and, if selected, receive a top-notch uniform courtesy of the Bensenville Park District. In partnership with Fenton High School, this exciting venture aims to provide an exceptional basketball feeder program for students residing within Fenton High School District 100 boundaries.

The Bville Flyers are dedicated to instilling discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship in their players, ensuring a well-rounded experience both on and off the court. The program will involve at least two practices per week, with games scheduled on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays.

Volunteer coaches play a crucial role in the success of the Flyers travel basketball program. The Bensenville Park District invites passionate individuals interested in coaching to contact Aponte at 630-766-7015 or email Baponte@bvilleparks.org to express their interest.

All eligible middle school students are encouraged to take part in the tryouts and embark on an exciting journey with the Bville Flyers travel basketball program. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville. For further details, please visit BvilleParks.org or contact Aponte.

Save $25! Photography permit fees just $10 on Saturday, Sept. 28

Bensenville, Ill. (September 2, 2024)—With Fenton and York High School homecoming dances just a few weeks away, Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave. in Bensenville, is offering a special for homecoming photography on its historic grounds. Homecoming couples, groups and families may take their pre-dance photos at the farm, and the permit fee has been reduced to just $10 per photographer, allowing couples to have their photos taken in a unique setting on the grounds.

“Fischer Farm is a beautiful and unique place for photography and is one of the oldest homesteads in DuPage County,” says Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel. “The grounds, barns and historic farmhouse provide the perfect backdrop for photos that will provide many years of memories. We are thrilled to offer this special to the local community.”

Photography permit fees have been reduced from $35 to just $10 per photographer on September 28 only, and families and professional photographers alike are invited to contact Shiel in advance (cshiel@bvilleparks.org) for a homecoming farm photography permit.

The Fischer family established their home around the year 1836. Through the years, they built barns and then a large farm house in 1919. The land just north of the cabin has been left untouched and is valued for its original seedbeds. Today, the property is used to pursue a mission of agricultural education, historical exploration and environmental conservation.

Since the Bensenville Park District’s acquisition of the property in 2022, use of the venue as a rental destination has grown. The site has been used for chamber of commerce meetings, birthday parties, weddings, family reunions and more. Rental fees for the Granary Barn are $225 for a four-hour event, $175 for those living in district. Additional hours are $45 and $35 for in-district residents.

For more information about Fischer Farm, programs and activities, visit BvilleParks.org/FischerFarm, follow on Facebook or Instagram (@BvilleFischerFarm) or check out the Bensenville Park District Fall Program Guide, located online at BvilleParks.org.

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UPDATE AS OF SEPTEMBER 4: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED.

Bensenville, Ill. (August 28, 2024) — Hey, young at heart! The Bensenville Park District is now taking reservations for Puttin’ on the Ritz, a prom-like event for those age 40 and older, to be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, September 28, in the Deer Grove Leisure Center Gym, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville

The event is intended for active adults, and the event includes dinner, music, dancing and nostalgic charm. Dress to impress in the finest attire and create cherished memories with friends and loved ones at this unforgettable celebration.

The fee is just $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, or by calling 630-766-7015. The registration deadline is Friday, September 20.

Wood St. Fitness offers unique, canine-inspired yoga events

Bensenville, Ill. (August 23, 2024) — Wood Street Fitness has expanded its one-of-a-kind wellness experience that combines the serenity of yoga with the joy of playful puppies in fall 2024. Once a month, Puppy Yoga participants experience the benefits of yoga while surrounded by cuddly puppies at the Deer Grove Leisure Center Exercise Room, 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville.

Sessions take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays, September 7, October 12, November 23 and December 7. Additional same-day sessions may be offered if classes fill up and the wait list grows to 15.

Each 45-minute yoga flow is followed by 15 minutes of cuddle time, promising a unique and uplifting journey to well-being. At each class, puppies roam freely from one yoga mat to the next, offering cuddles and spreading joy as participants move, flow and breathe through their yoga practice.

Puppy Yoga classes offer the same physical and mental benefits as traditional yoga, with the added therapeutic effects of interacting with lovable furry companions. According to John Hopkins Medicine, yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility; helps with back pain relief; can ease arthritis symptoms; benefits heart health; provides relaxation, promoting better sleep; can improve mental and physical energy, alertness, enthusiasm and moods; helps remove stress and promotes better self-care.

Puppy Yoga is open to participants aged 14 and above, with those aged 10 to 13 welcomed with a paid adult guardian. To ensure an intimate and enjoyable experience, each class has a minimum of 15 participants and a maximum of 30 people. Due to the popularity of this program, advance registration is required at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.

Fees are just $20, $18 for those living within Bensenville Park District boundaries. In addition to class fees, participants are encouraged to bring donations of dog food, laundry soap, Clorox, paper towels, martingale collars and other supplies to further support Border Tails Rescue—a no-kill, non-profit—in its noble mission.

For more information about Wood Street Fitness programs, classes and facilities, visit WoodStFitness.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) at @WoodStFitness.

Includes free fitness center, group fitness classes access

​Bensenville, Ill. (August 16, 2024) — Wood Street Fitness, located inside the Bensenville Park District’s Deer Grove Leisure Center at 1000 W. Wood Street in Bensenville, is offering free access to the fitness center and all group fitness classes during its free fitness week, September 9-15.

“Wood Street Fitness can help you reach your fitness goals with the latest equipment, plus guidance and support,” says Fitness Supervisor Silvia Acevedo. “Free fitness week lets you try before you buy more than 20 group fitness classes in addition to use of the fitness center. We offer a Core Class Pass that covers all of them, and many of them can be done virtually from your own home with this membership.”

Fitness center membership rates are $18 per month and $184 a year ($15 and $153 for those living within park district boundaries). Couple rates are available for $30 and $306 ($25 and $255 in-district). Teens and veterans/active military rates are $15/$153 ($12, $122 in-district), and veterans age 55 and above are $11 monthly and $114 per year ($9 and $90 in-district). Veterans registered with Healthy Minds Healthy Bodies receive first year memberships free, along with 15 free personal training sessions.

Free fitness week classes include Chair Yoga, SH1FT L1FT, Zumba Gold, Zumba Gold+Drum Fitness, 20/20/20, Zumba, Tai Chi, Silver Sneakers Classic, Strength & Flexibility Yoga, Cycling, Core Foundations, Cardio Blast, Cardio Drumming, TRX, Zumba Toning, In Motion and Zumba Multi-Level. A full class schedule listing can be found at WoodStFitness.com/Classes. Personal training is also offered.

The Core Class Pass provides adults ages 14+ unlimited access to all fitness classes with the exception of special events and premier classes. Fees are $40 monthly or $360 per year with a discount rate for those living in district of $35 and $300, respectively. Add a Core Class Pass to an annual fitness center membership for an additional $204.

Punch passes are also available for $80 ($60 in-district) and include 11 fitness class sessions.

Wood Street Fitness is operated by the Bensenville Park District. Contact Acevedo (sacevedo@bvilleparks.org, 630-766-7015) or visit WoodStFitness.com for information.