Bolingbrook Park District News - June / July 2023 Edition

We make the fun happen!

UPCOMING EVENTS

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SUMMER SUN AND SKIN SAFETY FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

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PELICAN HARBOR... WHERE THE FUN IS THIS SUMMER!

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TIRED OF THE SAME OLD RACES?

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NEW SUMMER PARKS CHALLENGE

SEE PAGE 10

Adding Color to Our Parks and Facilities

Earhart, our horticulturist. “We also do research on the kind of soil that’s present in the beds. Some beds dry out a lot faster than others.”

into our beds, along with the imported plants. Local plants include Bee Balm, Echinacea and Milkweed.”

TThere’s no such thing as a “lazy summer” for Bolingbrook Park District. In fact, spring and summer just happen to be the busiest times of the year for much of our staff, including our Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources team. I’m sure that you’ve noticed all the new freshly planted flora adding vibrancy to our parks and facilities.

“We plant the right plant for the right place. Some plants thrive in shady beds, while other prefer sunny beds,” said Sara

Our local wildlife plays a role in choosing plants. “Knowing which plants are beneficial to our native pollinators is also very important,” said Earhart. “Some of the plants aren’t native to this area, but they still support our wildlife. For example, African Daisies are great for our bees and butterflies. We have plants from Europe, China and other countries.”

“Here at the Bolingbrook Park District we do something pretty cool,” said Sara. “We incorporate native Illinois wildfire plants

With every season comes different duties. “I love the variety that comes with this job. Every season has a different role,” said Earhart. “In the winter we do a lot of clearing and pruning. In the spring we do a bulk of the planting. With summer comes mowing, landscaping and bed maintenance. When fall comes around we plant trees again.”

If you happen to see any of our team doing their thing around town, feel free to thank them for a job well done!

Sara Earhart, Horticulturist, and Kim Rutkowski, Groundsworker, have been busy planting flora for the season.

Board of Commissioners

A Letter from the Executive Director

Hello Bolingbrook Friends,

President Jerry Hix jhix@bolingbrookparks.org

Vice President Sue Vastalo svastalo@bolingbrookparks.org

I joined the Bolingbrook Park District team on May 1, and I’m excited to officially be where the fun is! Having spent the past 28 years living and raising a family in Bolingbrook, I have been impressed with the quality of our parks, facilities and programming; community support and growth of our park system; and the dedication and talent of park district staff. It is an honor to serve in my new role in our amazing community!

I have one wish this summer. May you take advantage of what the park district offers you. Get ready, get set... recreate!

Our staff are currently gearing up to provide a multitude of opportunities for summer fun to create memories with friends new and old. Preparation of our parks, facilities, programs and special events focuses on finding ways for you to enjoy your favorite activities and explore new interests. Summer is the perfect time to get out and enjoy some sunshine, warmth and fresh air. You can enjoy larger community activities such as sports leagues, summer concerts and movies in the park. You can get active by walking, running, biking, swimming, fishing, hiking, dancing, playing soccer, golf, volleyball, baseball, softball, cricket, basketball, tennis, pickleball, bags and football. You can attend summer camp and other recreation programs, have a picnic, fly a kite, or just sit on a bench and watch the sunset. You can do all of these things and much more with the park district.

Look forward to seeing you out and about this summer. Enjoy!

Treasurer Frank McKay fmckay@bolingbrookparks.org

Secretary Dorothy Andrews dandrews@bolingbrookparks.org

Your partner in fun,

Commissioner Jake McVey jmcvey@bolingbrookparks.org

Mike Selep Executive Director

Board of Commissioners Meeting Information

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.

Mark Your Calendars

Wednesday, June 7

Summer Concert Series - The Red Roses

7:30-9:00 pm FREE

Roger C. Claar Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd.)

Thursday, June 8

Neighborhood Movie Series - Wakanda Forever

8:30 pm FREE - Sponsored by UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook Volunteer Park South (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Friday, June 9 Swimsuit Drive

8:00 am-7:00 pm FREE Pelican Harbor outdoor Aquatic Park (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Friday, June 9

All About Owls

8:00-9:00 pm

$10 ($7 w/ Resident ID)

James S. Boan Woods (401 Schmidt Rd.)

Friday, June 9 Visit Your Local Park 10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE Central Park (201 Recreation Dr.)

Sunday, June 11 Take It Outside - Group Fitness Classes

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

June 13–18

Aqua Fitness Free Week - FREE Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Wednesday, June 14

Summer Concert Series - Fantasy Band

7:30–9:00 pm FREE

Roger C. Claar Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd.)

Thursday, June 15

Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting

7:00 pm—Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)

Friday, June 16 Visit Your Local Park 10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE Sunset Park (1500 Waterside Dr.)

Friday, June 16

Adult Hip Hop Pop-In

6:30-7:30 pm

$5

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Saturday, June 17

Hand-in-Hand Hike

3:00-4:30 pm

$7 ($5 w/ Resident ID)

James S. Boan Woods (401 Schmidt Rd.)

Wednesday, June 21

Summer Solstice Celebration

6:00-7:30 pm

$10 ($7 w/ Resident ID)

James S. Boan Woods (401 Schmidt Rd.)

Wednesday, June 21

Summer Concert Series

- Rhythm Giants

7:30-9:00 pm FREE

Roger C. Claar Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd.)

Thursday, June 22

Neighborhood Movie Series

- Puss In Boots

8:30 pm FREE — Sponsored by UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook

Indian Chase Meadows (535 Pheasant Chase Dr.)

Friday, June 23

Visit Your Local Park 10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE Wipfler Park (549 Rockhurst Dr.)

Friday, June 23

Preschool Pajama Party - Zoo Fun

5:30-7:30 pm

$37 ($25 w/ Resident ID)

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

The Fun Continues...

Saturday, June 24

Family Bike Challenge

10:00 am-1:00 pm FREE

- Sponsored by Meijer

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Wednesday, June 28

Summer Concert Series

- Just the 80’s Band

7:30-9:00 pm FREE

Roger C. Claar Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd.)

Thursday, June 29

Middle School Pool Night

7:30-9:00 pm

$13 ($10 w/ Resident ID)

Pelican Harbor Outdoor Aquatic Park (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Friday, June 30

Visit Your Local Park 10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE

Indian Chase Meadows (525 Pheasant Chase Dr.)

Monday, July 3 Swim Like a Mermaid

9:00-11:00 am

$22 ($20 w/ Resident ID)

Pelican Harbor Outdoor Aquatic Park (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Wednesday, July 5

Summer Concert Series

- Vinyl Goldmine

7:30–9:00 pm FREE

Roger C. Claar Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd.)

Thursday, July 6

Neighborhood Movie Series - Sonic 2 |8:30 pm . FREE — Sponsored by UChicago

Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook Wipfler Park (549 Rockhurst Rd.)

Friday, July 7

Visit Your Local Park

10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE

Champions Park (1600 Firethorn)

Thursday, July 13

High School Pool Night

7:30-9:00 pm

$13 ($10 w/ Resident ID)

Pelican Harbor Outdoor Aquatic Park (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Friday, July 14

Visit Your Local Park 10:00 am-12:30 pm . FREE Remington Lakes Sports Complex (811 W. Remington Blvd.)

Friday, July 14

Preschool Pajama Party

- Summer Sweets

5:30-7:30 pm

$37 ($25 w/ Resident ID)

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Saturday, July 15 Go Fly a Kite 10:00 am-2:00 pm FREE

- Sponsored by Meijer

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Thursday, July 20

Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting

7:00 pm—Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)

Thursday, July 20

Neighborhood Movie Series

- Minions: The Rise of Gru

8:30 pm FREE — Sponsored by UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook

UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Bolingbrook (500 Remington Blvd.)

Friday, July 21

Visit Your Local Park

10:00 am-12:30 pm FREE

Johansen Farm Park (770 Hartford Ln.)

Friday, July 28

Visit Your Local Park

10:00 am-12:30 pm . FREE

Winston Woods (200 Winston Dr.)

Thursday, August 3

Neighborhood Movie Series

- Turning Red

8:30 pm . FREE — Sponsored by UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth Bolingbrook

Bulldog Park (351 Blair Lane)

Saturday, August 5

Family & Friends Canoeing

10:00-11:30 pm

$15 ($12 w/ Resident ID)

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Friday, August 11

Preschool Pajama Party

- In the Summer Sky

5:30-7:30 pm

$37 ($25 w/ Resident ID)

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)

Saturday, August 12

Icky Animal Science

3:00-4:00 pm

$10 ($7 w/ Resident ID)

Johansen Farm Park (770 Hartford Ln)

Friday, August 18

Family Obstacle Challenge

6:00-8:00 pm . FREE - Sponsored by Meijer 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.)

FAMILY BIKE CHALLENGE

Saturday, June 24 . 10:00 am–1:00 pm

Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex

All ages welcome

Teams will be given a bike route to travel to stations throughout Bolingbrook to complete a task. Once successful, you will receive a playing card. Who will have the best five card poker hand at the conclusion of the event? Register as a team of four. Route distances range from 2–12 miles.

Additional details provided upon registration.

*For questions about these events, please contact Hannah Grise at

Summer Sun and Skin Safety for Kids and Adults

Things to Know About Sunscreen

SSummer is here again and with it comes the increased risk of sunburn and damage to your skin. To learn how you can protect yourself and your kids from the sun’s damaging effects we talked to UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group’s board-certified family medicine physician specialist, Julianne Gatlin, DO, about tips and tricks for staying safe and healthy this summer.

Sunscreen Isn’t Everything

The best way to keep your skin safe from the sun is to avoid it altogether. Don’t go outside during the brightest and hottest hours, when you do go outside try to stay in the shade. Wearing sun protective clothing rated 50+ UPGF or higher is better.

“The SPF protection from sunscreen is a bit misleading,” says Dr. Gatlin. This kind of sunscreen is called a chemical blocker. SPF only blocks UVB light that will give you a sunburn but the UVA which damages the skin cells long term isn’t blocked at all. To block out UVA, your sunscreen needs to include zinc or titanium, which is called a physical blocker because it actually reflects the light.

When choosing a sunscreen, you should buy one that has at least an SPF rating of 30 or higher. Properly applied SPF 30 blocks about 80 percent of the UVB light.

Aerosol or spray sunscreens may seem convenient but come with their own set of risks. The components in chemical blockers are very often toxic and should never be used on the face or inhaled. They also have a high alcohol content and shouldn’t be used if you or your child has eczema as it will

aggravate the condition. That said, if it’s all you have you should still use it rather than exposing yourself to the raw power of the sun.

Water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Sunscreen comes in two varieties of water resistance, water-resistant and very waterresistant. Standard water-resistant sunscreen lasts in water or sweat for up to 40 minutes while very water-resistant sunscreen will last up to 80 minutes. Being in water or being sweaty are essentially the same when it comes to sunscreen so be sure to reapply as necessary depending on the variety you’re using.

Babies 6 months and younger should not be in the sun since their bodies have not yet developed the ability to cope with it and therefore should also not be wearing sunscreen. If, for whatever reason, you have to have your newborn infant out in these conditions, be sure to check the ingredients

Stay safe in the summer heat!

As outdoor temperatures rise, so does the risk of serious heatrelated illnesses and injuries. Keep these precautions in mind to safeguard yourself and your family members.

Here’s

a few Tips to Stay Safe This Summer

Avoid leaving people or pets in a parked car (even with the windows cracked).

Know the signs of heatstroke (body temperature 104° or higher, muscle cramps, hallucinations, headache, confusion, nausea).

If you become overheated, move to a cool place and seek medical attention.

Exercise in the morning, before temperatures rise.

Apply sunscreen every day and reapply often.

Stay hydrated.

Wear sun-protective clothing.

Our UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group includes primary and specialty care physicians working to ensure you and your family receive the right care at the right time.

Call 855-231-1033 or visit UChicagoMedicineAdventHealth.org to find a physician near you.

for toxins and use a sunscreen with zinc or titanium in it.

Proper Application of Sunscreen

“It’s very important that you apply the sunscreen correctly, otherwise you can have very inconsistent results,” says Dr. Gatlin. By

putting it on wrong you can cut its benefit in half or more.

When applying sunscreen always try to err on the side of too much versus too little. Dr. Gatlin recommends using 1–2 ounces of SPF 30+ sunscreen containing a UVA physical blocker like zinc or titanium, making sure to cover every part of you that will be exposed to the sun and reapplying every 1-2 hours depending on your activity.

Treatment for Sunburn

Mistakes happen. Sometimes you’ll miss a spot and get a sunburn. Here’s the best way to treat it:

• Drink plenty of water as your body will need it to recover

• Take cold baths

• Take ibuprofen or another antiinflammatory medication

• Apply aloe or other cool, light lotions- but be sure to avoid any heavy occlusive ones that contain ingredients like Vaseline, as they can increase the heat rather than cool the burn

Skin Health Checkups

Even with proper protection and diligence, you should still have your or your child’s skin checked once a year. If you have a family history of melanoma, be sure to visit a dermatologist. Keep a close eye on birthmarks, too.

We’re Here to Help

Julianne Gatlin, DO, is a board-certified family medicine physician with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group. She cares for babies to senior adults and is accepting new patients in her office at 329 Remington Blvd., Suite 200, in Bolingbrook. Call 630.759.4800 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Pelican Harbor… Where the Fun is this Summer!

TThe day that Pelican Harbor Outdoor Aquatic Park opens its doors means that summer has officially begun in Bolingbrook. There is nothing quite like the anticipation of racing down one of the water slides for the first time. Pelican Harbor Outdoor Park opened on May 27 and will close on August 20 for the season. The team has been working on many updates to enhance your experience this summer. The outdoor bathhouse has received a fresh coat of paint to brighten up the interior. You will also notice new gates at the entrance of Pelican Harbor and an additional egress gate. These are all important improvements to ensure our visitors are safe in case of an emergency. The team has also replaced the original funbrellas with new shade structures.

Swim Lessons & Swim Team

On the programming side, there are many options for you to learn how to swim. Classes begin with Parkie’s Babies swim lessons and go all the way up to adults. If a group class is not a good fit for you, we offer semiprivate and private swim lessons, as well. Pelican Harbor is home to the Bolingbrook Pelicans Swim Team for those looking to become involved in competitive swimming.

Swim Like a Mermaid

One of the more unique programs on the calendar this summer is Swim Like a Mermaid on Monday, July 3 from 9:00–11:00 am. This program is open to kids ages 7–14. Participants can bring their own mermaid tail or borrow one of ours. Preregistration is required.

Teen Pool Parties

Teen pool parties will be offered again this year, but we have made some adjustments. There will be a middle school pool night on Thursday, June 29 from 7:30–9:30 pm. The high school pool night will be held on Thursday, July 13 from 7:30–9:30 pm. This supervised party will require preregistration in order attend. Registration is $13 or $10 with a resident ID.

Aqua Fitness

A full schedule of aqua fitness classes is available through Lifestyles Fitness Center. If you are not sure if these classes are a good fit for you, you can join one of the aqua fitness classes for free the week of June 13–18.

Swimsuit Drive

In an effort to support families that may need some assistance, Pelican Harbor is hosting a swimsuit drive. You may donate new or gently used swimming gear and apparel. Items may include swimsuits, goggles, towels, swim bags and other swim equipment. Donations may be dropped off outside Pelican Harbor on Friday, June 9 from 8:00 am–7:00 pm. Each donor will receive one free daily admission pass to Pelican Harbor.

As you can see, Pelican Harbor is truly where the fun is this summer! We hope to see you there.

View

A new entrance gate was installed just in time for our opening on May 27.

Tired of the Same Old Races?

We Have Three Options Just for You!

Entry for Super Parkie’s Fun Run is $10 and it includes a cape.

LLife is so much more fun when you try new ways to challenge yourself. Bolingbrook Park District is offering runners of all abilities three options to get their hearts pumping. The first option is the always popular Parkie’s 5K. This classic 5K is held on Saturday, August 26 at the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex. The first 500 runners will receive a race shirt and all finisher’s will earn a finisher’s gift. Start time is 8:00 am. Runners 15 years and above can register for only $29 if you register before July 31. Kids ages 6-14 years is only $27 if you register before July 31. Kids under the age of 10 can also participate in Super Parkie’s Fun Run, a 100 yard dash.

The Howl-O-Ween 5K has been added to the race mix. This new and unique race will be held on Sunday, October 22 at the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex. This race is for runners who love dogs and Halloween. Runners can choose to run with their dog or on their own. All are encouraged to dress up and have fun! The route will be different than Parkie’s 5K. Each runner will receive a Howl-O-ween 5K sweatshirt, medal and race bib. There may even be a special treat for your dog. Registration is only $35 if you register before October 7.

For those that are really looking for something new, the Bolingbrook Park District has added Parkie’s Lazy River 5K on Saturday, August 12. Participants can walk

or run 26 laps with the current around the lazy river at Pelican Harbor Outdoor Aquatic Park. This event is perfect for those who may want to take it easy on their knees, but still challenge themselves to a 5K. Each finisher will receive a medal. All participants must be 12 years or older. Registration is only $30. Members of Pelican Harbor will receive a discounted rate of $25.

We hope to see you at one of these three races or even all three. Be sure to register early and have some fun!

LParkie’s 5K takes place on August 26.

Parkie’s Lazy River 5K will go down on August 12. The NEW Howl-O-Ween 5K will hold its first race on October 22.

SUMMER PARKS CH ALLENG E

Prince Acorn is a friendly squirrel who loves our playgrounds. Parkie can’t find him, but Prince Acorn left a trail for Parkie to follow. Join Parkie on his journey to find Prince Acorn!

Start

1. Visit Central Park Playground

(201 Recreation Drive)

Look for the Summer Parks Challenge sign near the shelter and playground. Scan the QR code on the sign to find your next location.

TIP: Be sure to make note of the next park so you don’t forget.

2. Enjoy the Park

Explore what Prince Acorn loves about each park! Answer the trivia question that comes up when you scan the QR code. Then include your name, phone and email for an entry into the prize drawing.

How do you win?

Each park challenge you complete along the way gets you another entry in the prize drawing. (Be sure to submit your name, phone and email each time you scan the QR code and answer the trivia question.) Complete the entire challenge to receive maximum chances. If you do find Prince Acorn, you will receive an additional 10 entries!

3. Find Prince Acorn & WIN!

The last stop on the challenge will take you to your very own Prince Acorn! You will also be entered for more chances to win prizes including a $100 Bolingbrook Park District gift card, admissions to Pelican Harbor and more!

Congratulations are in Order!

It’s hard to believe that these kids have already graduated from their preschool class. Their futures are looking bright!

Congratulations to the recipients of the Susan Hoster-Suggs Award of Excellence! Pictured left to right, Commissioner Dorothy Andrews, Susan Meier, Anne Strom, Jason Koenings, Laura Mensik and Executive Director Mike Selep.

Bravo to our BPD Dance Academy students on their May Concert performance on May 13!

Meet Our Staff!

KKirsten Lee can do it all, and she has at Bolingbrook Park District. Kirsten has been bringing the fun to the residents of Bolingbrook for the last 16 years. Her career with Bolingbrook Park District began in 2007 as a child care attendant. Once word got out about her extensive gymnastics experience, she was quickly hired as a gymnastics coach. Kirsten also helped with the after school program at BJ Ward and worked with the preschool program teaching Puddle Jumpers before exclusively working within the gymnastics program. She became the compulsory head coach in 2016, then moved on to become the overall head coach, and finally the program coordinator in 2018. It was a natural transition for Kirsten to move into the role of recreation manager of gymnastics cheer and Ninja in 2022.

“I love the relationships I have gotten to make with the community,” stated Lee. “I love the support our customers have for the programs. We have so many children return for classes session after session.”

Kirsten brings plenty of gymnastics experience to the role which helps keep the program strong. She started gymnastics at the age of 5 at the Downers Grove Park District and went on to become a member of the Downers Grove North gymnastics team all four years. “Gymnastics has been a lifelong passion for me,” stated Lee. After high school, she coached at the Downers Grove Park District and Premier Gymnastics. “My dream job would be to coach for a NCAA Division I college gymnastics team!” said Lee.

While continuing her love of gymnastics, Kirsten focused on building her family with her husband of 31 years. They have four children, ages 24, 23, 18 and 14. “Our 18 year old just became a Marine this year!” said Lee. She loves spending time with her family when they are all home. If she is not with them, you will find her bowling, traveling or binging on her favorite tv shows. You might even catch her playing her flute, which originally inspired her to pursue a music business career.

Kirsten can be reached at klee@ bolingbrookparks.org or 630.783.6508.

ABOUT US

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.

INCLUSION SERVICES

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.

Kirsten Lee

Recreation Manager of Gymnastics, Cheer and Ninja

Northern Will County Special Recreation Association

ParkAmenities

BOLINGBROOK PARKS

TRAILS

1 Lily Cache Greenway by Prairie Trails Park

2 Lily Cache Greenway Trail by Bloomfield Oasis / Lily Cache Sports Complex

3 DuPage River Greenway by Indian Boundary Park / Hidden Lakes

4 Knights of Columbus Park

5 Gateway Wetlands

6 ComEd Greenway