We make the fun happen!
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2023 EDITION FREE
UPCOMING EVENTS
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7 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR OB/GYN AT YOUR NEXT VISIT
SEE PAGES 6-7
SUMMER SUPPORT TEAM MEMBERS HELP MAKE THE FUN HAPPEN!
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NEW GRANTS
LEAD TO NEW BEGINNINGS FOR BOLINGBROOK PARK DISTRICT
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SUMMER VIBES
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Fall Fest will take place on September 30 from 3:00–6:00 pm at the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln).
IIt was inevitable. The lazy summer days are quickly coming to a close. We can’t believe how fast the weeks are flying by. Don’t despair, because the fun will continue through the fall season. The following is a list of activities that you and your family can take part in the next few months.
Fall Fest
It’s a fun afternoon for the whole family. Enjoy food vendors, the Fountaindale Public Library Bookmobile, archery, tricycle races,
bingo, a pumpkin patch, team building and more.
Fall Fest takes place on September 30 from 3:00–6:00 pm at the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln) Presented by UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook.
2nd Annual Celebration of Special Recreation
Explore a variety of fun and challenging adapted recreational activities while
connecting with community service providers. Presented collaboratively by Bolingbrook Arts Council, Bolingbrook Park District, Northern Will County Special Recreation Association and Angelic Kindness. This celebration takes place on October 7 from 11:00 am–3:00 pm at the Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr) Please visit celebratespecialrec.org for more details.
Thank you, Bolingbrook, for the warm welcome I have received since my arrival in May. It has been an honor to serve as Executive Director of the Bolingbrook Park District. It has been a summer to remember witnessing amazing memories created in our programs, events, facilities, parks and trails!
President Jerry Hix jhix@bolingbrookparks.org
Vice President Sue Vastalo svastalo@bolingbrookparks.org
I must admit something (no offense to summer), I get super excited for the arrival of fall. It is by far my favorite season as summer heat begins to dissipate and the leaves transform into a variety of beautiful colors. I savor every moment of being outdoors before the chill of winter fills the air.
The Bolingbrook Park District is proud to present a full variety of fun opportunities for individuals to develop new interests as well as enhance their physical and mental well-being this fall. Warning: the park district does not have everything for everyone; however, it does have something fun for everyone!
There is something for you at the park district if you like everything from…
• Preschool to senior outings.
• Miles of trails, variety of playgrounds, athletic fields/courts and picnic shelters to golf course & aquatic, fitness and community centers.
• Aquatics, dance, gymnastics and martial arts for all age groups to combo gymnastics & martial arts + obstacles—Ninjas.
• Walking/running in a fun community setting, with your dog—Howl-O-ween 5k to Parkie’s 5k—without your dog.
Treasurer Frank McKay fmckay@bolingbrookparks.org
Secretary Dorothy Andrews dandrews@bolingbrookparks.org
• Free family events—Fall Fest, Family Obstacle Challenge, Celebration of Special Recreation, Freaky Fun Friday, Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt to free fitness events—Dog Sensory Hike, Hot Cider Stroll and the Thanksgiving Turkey Burner.
If these opportunities do not pique your interest, there are literally hundreds of additional programs to choose from. Explore the brochure and jump into something that can add life to your years and years to your life.
Yours in recreation!
Commissioner Jake McVey jmcvey@bolingbrookparks.org
Mike Selep Executive Director
The Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners have scheduled board meetings the third Thursday of each month. All meetings are held in the Board Room at Annerino Community Center, 201 Recreation Drive, Bolingbrook, Illinois.
To find the Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes, visit www.bolingbrookparks.org . Each date has a hyperlink that takes you to that month’s minutes or agenda.
10:15 am, & 5:00 pm FREE
Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Thursday, August 17
Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting
7:00 pm—Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Friday, August 18
Family Obstacle Challenge
6:00–8:00 pm FREE Sponsored by Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Saturday, August 26 Parkie’s 5K 8:00 AM
$29 by July 31; $34 Aug 1–24; $40 Race Day
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Saturday, August 26 Super Parkie’s Fun Run
Approximately 9:15 am $10 Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Thursday, September 7
Hit the Trails 1:00–2:00 pm
$20 (includes t-shirt)
Various Trails
Saturday, September 9
Dog Sensory Hike
1:00–2:30 pm
FREE . Sponsored by James S. Boan Woods (410 Schmidt Rd)
Saturday, September 9
Celebrating With My Grown-up — Cute Little Carnival
4:00–5:30 pm
$38 ($25 w/Resident ID)
Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Saturday, September 16
Adult Trip-Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest
1:00-5:00 pm
$75 ($65 w/Resident ID)
Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Thursday, September 21
Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting
7:00 pm—Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Friday, September 22
Preschool Pajama Party — Superhero School 5:30–7:30 pm
$37 ($25 w/Resident ID)
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Saturday, September 27
Stamp Carving
4:00–5:30 pm
$10 ($7 w/Resident ID)
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Saturday, September 30
Fall Fest
3:00–6:00 pm
FREE
Sponsored by Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
October 1–31
Beast Mode Challenge
FREE
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Friday, October 6
Trip-Chicago Architecture Tour
9:00 am–4:00 pm
$85 ($75 w/Resident ID)
Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Saturday, October 7 2nd Annual Celebration of Special Recreation
11:00 am–3:00 pm
FREE Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Sunday, October 8
Cheesy Pretzel 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk
8:00–11:30 am
$30 w/Early Registration
Promenade Bolingbrook (619 E Boughton Rd)
October 7–13
New Les Mills Classes at Lifestyles
Various Times
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Thursday, October 19
Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting
7:00 pm—Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Friday, October 20
Freaky Fun Friday 5:00–8:00 pm
FREE . Sponsored by Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex Volunteer Park (200 Lindsey Ln, South of Pelican Harbor)
Bolingbrook Bank & Trust is a branch of Wheaton Bank & Trust Company, N.A. 1. Junior Savers Account Bonus Information. This Junior Savers account bonus offer is valid for new accounts opened January 1, 2022 through January 31, 2024. This Junior Savers account bonus offer is not available to active employees of Wintrust Financial Corporation (‘WTFC’) and its subsidiaries. Multiple Junior Savers accounts opened and titled in the same name, will only qualify for 1 bonus payment. Your new account must be open, in the same product, and have a balance greater than zero to receive the bonus payment. Balance is determined as of the end of each Business Day as the funds currently in your account including deposits and withdrawals made in the Business Day. The $10.00 bonus payment is subject to IRS 1099-INT reporting and may be considered income for tax purposes for the tax year in which the bonus was paid. 2. Junior Savers Account. At account opening, child(ren) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and present a valid Social Security number(s). Transaction limitations will apply. Fees may reduce earnings. 3. Junior Savers Bonus Qualifications. (i) Open a new Junior Savers account; (ii) mention this offer during in-branch account opening, visit the URL provided, or enter Junior10 when applying online; and (iii) be under the age of 22 when you open your new Junior Savers account. After you have completed all the above bonus offer qualifications, we will deposit this bonus payment into your new account within 60 calendar days after account opening. A listing of WTFC locations can be found here: wintrust.com/locations. 4.
Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr)
All ages welcome
You live with your family, now it’s time to become a team! Families will navigate their way through fun and challenging obstacles at Annerino Community Center. You can expect obstacles to challenge your balance, speed, flexibility and family team work.
DOG SENSORY HIKE
James S. Boan Woods (410 Schmidt Rd)
All ages welcome
Excite your furry buddy’s senses with a special hike, visiting stations of curated items for them to sniff, taste or play with! Arrive any time between 1:00–2:00 pm to enjoy about 30 minutes of activity.
Please Note:
• An additional waiver must be signed.
• You are responsible for the actions of your dog.
• Keep your dog leashed at all times. Leashes must not exceed 6 feet.
• Dogs known to be aggressive towards other dogs or people may not participate.
• Any dog feces must be picked up and disposed of by the dog owner.
FREAKY FUN FRIDAY
Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln)
Volunteer Park (South of Pelican Harbor)
All ages welcome
Grab a hand to hold and enter our haunted house, if you dare, or grab a seat and enjoy a free movie. Make sure you wear your costume for trunk-or-treating!
HOT CIDER STROLL
James S. Boan Woods (410 Schmidt Rd)
All ages welcome
Enjoy a guided stroll through the woods with an experienced Naturalist and a hot cider in hand. Later, cuddle up by the fire or play some lawn games! Be sure to dress for the weather. Contact for terrain details and ADA assistance.
Dr. Tomur. Ask your OB/GYN what they recommend and if other exams, like STD testing or blood work, need to be done to keep you healthy. “Start your visit with this question to lead to more personalized care.”
is stronger, smells “fishy,” or doesn’t go away for long periods of time, ask your OB/GYN if what you’re smelling is normal.” Some odors may signal an infection, and it’s best to get them checked out sooner than later.
WWhen you walk into your OB/GYN appointment, you may feel overwhelmed at all the questions your doctor may ask you to get an update on your health history. Rashmi Tomur, MD, OB/GYN physician with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group encourages you not to forget to ask any questions you may have about your menstrual cycle, new symptoms or family planning. Not sure what questions to ask? We asked Dr. Tomur to list her top questions. Jot these down and take control of your health.
“You should have a pelvic exam every year once you’re 21 and a mammogram every year once you’re 40, but this can vary based on your health history and risk factors,” says
Every woman’s period is different. Some have long, heavy flows, while some have short, light periods. A lot can impact your menstrual cycle, including hormones, diet and activity levels. Ask your OB/GYN if your menstrual flow is typical based on your lifestyle habits, age and overall health. If not, they can conduct tests and determine why your menstrual flow is lighter or heavier than normal.
“Vaginal odor is normal and depends on what you eat, drink or medications you take,” states Dr. Tomur, “but if you think your scent
Your sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate throughout each menstrual cycle, and it’s common to feel moody or more sensitive. However, if you feel depressed, hopeless or unable to function, it’s time to ask your OB/GYN if these are normal PMS symptoms or signs that you may have a premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Fortunately, PMDD is treatable and can help you feel like yourself throughout your menstrual cycle.
Less than 5% of breast cancer cases are in women under 40, but it’s still important to regularly check your breasts for bumps,
We provide a personal and tailored approach to women’s health. From adolescent care, prenatal visits through the birth of your baby, to menopause and beyond, our experienced medical professionals are dedicated to guiding you with expert care and compassion.
Services Include:
• Women’s wellness exams
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding
• Pre-conception counseling
• Complete pre-natal care
• Moderate and high-risk pregnancies
• Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
• Postpartum care
• Peri- and post-menopausal care
lumps or other changes. Early detection leads to the best outcomes. Ask your OB/
GYN to teach you to perform a self-exam and what to look for correctly. “It’s best” says Dr. Tomur, “to incorporate the self-exam into your daily routine, like when you’re hopping in the shower or getting ready for work. Then you’ll be regularly checking for any changes.”
If you’ve ever laughed too hard or sneezed and felt a little urine slip through, you may have a fallen bladder, stress incontinence or a pelvic floor issue. Ask your OB/GYN about steps you can take so that you can laugh again without hesitation. “This could be as simple as incorporating daily Kegel exercises or more advanced procedures.”
According to the Guttmacher Institute, about 99% of sexually active women in the U.S. from ages 15 to 44 have used at least one contraceptive method. “Not every method works or is right for every woman. With so many choices out there, like natural family planning or hormonal birth control, you may not know what is best for you.” Your OB/GYN can help determine the best birth control option for you and your partner.
Saturday, August 26 . 8:00 am Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex
From an annual pelvic exam to treatment for an STD, our expert OB/GYNs are here for your every need, close to home. Taking care of your whole health doesn’t need to be difficult.
Introducing Rashmi Tomur, MD, a boardcertified obstetrics and gynecology physician with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group. She cares for adolescents, adults and older adults at her office in Bolingbrook, (630) 312-7500 and Aurora, (630) 375-0101. Call today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Ages 6 years & up Run, walk or push a stroller and make it a family event. The first 500 participants will receive a t-shirt. Everyone earns a finisher’s gift and we’ll have awards for the top finishers.
WWhile they’re on summer break getting some time away from school, new learning experiences continue to roll in for three of our summer support staff members. Bolingbrook Park District is pleased to highlight the tremendous work they are doing. Tyler Gillespie, Evan Morfoot, and Tess Eken are all getting different experiences with the positions they’re in, but the things they are learning and knowledge they’re taking with them will forever be vital to them and their future careers.
departments and works with different supervisors each week, he’s had nothing but excellent interactions with each individual and program. He truly values the experience he’s receiving from this internship, and he hopes to take bits and pieces of all the personalities of his supervisors with him after this summer.
Our final position is held by Tess Eken, who is the 20-year-old Marketing & Communications Intern, studying Communication and Spanish at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her job includes drafting social media posts, dabbling in photography, writing segments for our newsletter, and much more. Tess has lived in Bolingbrook her whole life, and has always been active with the Park District. She was involved in our preschool programs, participated in gymnastics and swimming, and eventually became an assistant swim coach for the Bolingbrook Pelicans swim team.
Tyler Gillespie is a 23-year-old student at Aurora University, studying parks and recreation leadership. In his youth he participated in the basketball programs here at Bolingbrook Park District, and his love for the exciting atmosphere guided him to his current position. Tyler’s first job was with the Romeoville Recreation Department, and his time there led him to becoming our Recreation Intern. His heart is set on benefitting the community and putting a smile on people’s faces.
His position gives him a variety of opportunities; from working with athletics and aquatics, to assisting with day camp and dance, Tyler has seen it all at Bolingbrook Park District. Tyler notes, “Everyone has been so welcoming here...it’s a family atmosphere.” While he’s in different
As for Evan Morfoot, a 20-year-old finance major from the University of St. Francis, his area of expertise takes him behind-thescenes at Bolingbrook Park District. As the Accounting Clerk here, he processes facility receipts, works on accounts payable, and auditing. Evan has always found working with money to be very interesting, and his time as a clerk is giving him more experience to explore the financial processes of organizations. Aside from his position here, he’s grown up with Bolingbrook Park District programs, participating in archery and Camp Alotta Fun in his youth.
When asked about his job, Evan replies, “It’s really good for learning and getting a grasp for what actually goes on in the workplace…and I have good mentorship here”. His current goal for a career would be in financial advising, however he’s open to other opportunities in this field. Despite some curveballs that are thrown his way, Evan emphasizes how working as a seasonal clerk with Bolingbrook Park District is a great place to start.
She takes pride in working for her hometown Park District and being able to see all the hard work that goes into making the community events and programs so great. She also loves the environment here and the guidance she receives from her supervisors and counterparts. Tess adds, “When people ask me for my input on something, or have me create posts and write-ups, it really makes me feel like my work is appreciated here.” She acknowledges that even though her future path is still unknown, this position has given her a clearer understanding for what she hopes to achieve in later years, and the experience and learning opportunities will forever be useful.
There is no doubt that our summer support staff has done wonderful things this summer. Not only have they gotten a chance to see the functions that go behind the operations of the Bolingbrook Park District, but they’ve also had fun while doing so! The Bolingbrook Park District is a beacon for learning and experience, and we are so happy to have an amazing team who are willing to help make the fun happen.
BBolingbrook Park District is pleased to announce three grants that have been secured for improving community infrastructure and our parks. These grants will go towards a variety of capital replacement projects, including: light replacements at Lily Cache Sports Field, roof replacement at Annerino Community Center, and playground replacements.
Chris Finn, our Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources Director was happy to provide important details regarding the grant received and why this project is so important for Bolingbrook Park District and the entire community. Despite running into some dilemmas regarding the supply chain of materials needed, ultimately the grant was reapplied for and then approved by ComEd in June. 152 brand new LED lights have been scheduled to be positioned at the field in July. Originally, the total cost for these lights was priced at $340,732.50, but thanks to this grant, the District is saving $273,552.50. The project is estimated to bring annual savings of about $19,750 to the Park District. This high-quality LED light system brings lower costs on yearly maintenance overall for Bolingbrook Park District and it brings more simplicity to our staff because it can be controlled by any device with bluetooth.
Additionally, with the advocacy of Representative Dagmara Avelar, Bolingbrook Park District has successfully secured funding in the state budget for the roof replacement at Annerino Community Center. This grant is worth $120,000 and will tremendously assist our facility. Executive Director of Bolingbrook Park District, Mike Selep, writes, “This is a critical project for the district, and this funding will help us to be able to complete the project in a timely manner without sacrificing other programs, services or projects.”
Finally, with the help of Representative Janet Yang Rohr, Bolingbrook Park District has secured an additional grant worth $142,000 that will go towards assisting the replacement of two playgrounds in the community. Champions Park and Lilac Park playgrounds will have new and improved designs by Spring 2024, with hopes of completing construction in Fall 2024. “We greatly appreciate Representative Yang Rohr advocating for us to help serve the children of the community. The costs associated with playground replacement have dramatically increased over the past several years. These funds will help us continue to replace vital infrastructure without having to sacrifice service or critical updates throughout the district,” said Mike Selep. While full planning is still being rolled out, there is no doubt that these projects will help bring smiles to children’s faces. Bolingbrook Park District Board President, Jerry Hix, notes, “Playgrounds are fundamental components of our parks. Having the ability to update them on a regular basis enhances the quality of life for the children of our community. We are extremely grateful for Representative Yang Rohr’s efforts to provide the district with needed funding”.
Visit bolingbrookparks.org for more information on the District.
We hope that your family got to enjoy at least one of our five Neighborhood Movies.
Alotta Fun having a blast.
Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park. Here’s one of the over 7,000 people who enjoyed our Wednesday Night Summer Concerts!
BBeing active with park districts is nothing new to Lindsey Pollina. Lindsey oversees the dance, theater and teen programming here at Bolingbrook Park District. While she has been working at Bolingbrook Park District for just over two years now, her history with park districts is much more profound than that. In her youth she danced and participated in the theater programs at Glenview Park District. As she got older, her role shifted from student to teacher and she began teaching dance to younger kids, and also assistant-directed a play.
Lindsey continued her passion for selfexpression by pursing a minor in Dance at the University of Kentucky. After graduating, she spent some time working as the Cultural Arts and Special Events Supervisor at Crystal Lake Park District. Her talents and her drive eventually led her to Bolingbrook, where her artistic expertise is greatly admired. She had
such positive experiences growing up with her park district, and she continues the positivity here. Lindsey says, “I try to give the kids the same fun experience I had… I feel like I did a good job when I see a smile on kids’ faces.”
When Lindsey isn’t at Bolingbrook Park District, she spends time hiking and exploring forest preserves. She also loves listening to music and attending concerts, as she recently saw Taylor Swift perform in Chicago this past June. She enjoys spending time with her bunny, Cooper, and her two sisters, and she likes to visit her friends in Chicago on the weekends.
Not only has she had lots of success here, but she also just completed her Master’s Degree in May for Digital Marketing and Design from Aurora University. Her skills and dedication truly make her an amazing employee. When asked what she loves about working here, she responds with, “I just love being a part of people’s happiness.” We are so glad to have Lindsey as a part of our team.
Lindsey can be contacted at lpollina@ bolingbrookparks.org or (630) 783-6639.
10 Montrose Drive, Romeoville, IL 815-407-1819 • www.nwcsra.org
Northern Will County Special Recreation Association (NWCSRA) represents the partnership between Bolingbrook Park District, Lockport Township Park District, Plainfield Park District, and the Village of Romeoville.
Our mission is to provide meaningful recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities that enhance their overall quality of life. See our latest program offerings at www.nwcsra.org.
NWCSRA works collaboratively with the park district to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with a disability who wish to participate in a program through the park district. Individuals should be provided the opportunity to participate in recreation programs of their choice in the least restrictive environment. For additional questions regarding inclusion support, contact Carrie Gascoigne at 815-552-9776.
