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November 28, 2012 - download press release

Once Upon a Christmas Celebrates 30 Years This Weekend
    Lisle, IL - The Museums at Lisle Station Park is celebrating thirty years of bringing “old fashioned holiday fun” to Lisle with Once Upon a Christmas. The annual holiday celebration began in December of 1982 and was originally called “Christmas at the Depot Museum.” In the past thirty years, the museum complex has grown to five historical buildings and Once Upon a Christmas continues to offer free entertainment for all ages.
    On Saturday, December 1 from 3pm-8pm, visitors can enjoy crafts and hayrides, Christmas trees decorated by the Heritage Society, Santa Claus, brick oven baking and more! At 3pm the Santa Parade begins in downtown Lisle with Santa’s final destination being the Museums at Lisle Station Park. From 3-6pm there will be ice carving demonstrations on the facility grounds.
    On Sunday, December 2 from 11am-4pm a hay wagon will provide rides from the Polar Express trains to the Museums. The Lisle Heritage Society celebrates the Holidays featuring children’s crafts, music, brick oven baking, and blacksmithing, with model trains on display. Meet Santa at the Depot Museum and enjoy snacks. This day only, several of Santa’s reindeer with make a personal appearance! The reindeer will make a brief stop at the museum park on Sunday, December 2, from 11am-1pm. Their arrival is being timed to give the children on The Lisle Polar Express something extra special to see when it pulls into the Metra station at 11am on Sunday.
    The Museums at Lisle Station Park is located at 921 School Street in Lisle. Parking for this event is available in the Lisle Commuter Lot. For more information about Once Upon a Christmas call 630-968-0499 or visit LisleParkDistrict.org/onceuponachristmas.
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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October 31, 2012 - download press release

Recycle Old Holiday Lights for a Great Cause
    Lisle, IL - The Lisle Partners for Parks Foundation will be collecting holiday lights at the Lisle Park District Recreation Center, Community Center, and Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap/River Bend Golf Club from November 1, 2012 through February 1, 2013. The donated holiday lights may be in any condition, as the valuable wiring inside will be processed for scrap materials. The entire proceeds from processing the materials will be donated to the Lisle Partners for Parks Foundation. The Foundation uses donated funds to enrich the quality of lives in the greater Lisle community by providing scholarship funding for recreation programs and helps to advance the mission of the Lisle Park District.
    In addition to helping Lisle Park District families, your donation supports the Lisle Park District’s “Go Green” and “Earth Flag initiatives, which strives to create environmental protection awareness and advocacy within the greater Lisle Community. The Lisle Park District “Go Green” initiative also collects used athletic shoes, old crayons and paper for recycling. For more information about the Holiday Lights Recycling Program or the “Go Green” initiative, please visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.
    In the first year of the light recycling drive (December 2011-February 2012), a total of 1,371 pounds of scrap was recycled. The valuable wiring inside totaled 713 pounds and resulted in a donation of $163.99. Help Partners for Parks again this year by dropping off holiday lights to be recycled free of charge at: the Recreation Center at 1925 Ohio Street, Monday through Friday from 8:30am-5pm and Saturdays from 9am-1pm; the Community Center at 1825 Short Street, Monday through Friday from 5am-8pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 8am-8pm; or Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap/River Bend Golf Club at 5900 S. Route 53, from 10am-8pm daily.
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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October 4, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Park District Resident Wins $20,000 Grant for Arbor View Park’s Baseball Field in Chevrolet’s Diamonds & Dreams Program
    Lisle, IL – Lisle Park District resident Jack O’Connell was at home watching the Chicago Cubs play this summer and saw a commercial for the Chevrolet’s Diamonds and Dreams program. He entered the contest online and nominated the Lisle Park District as his home community for a ball field renovation. A few weeks later Mr. O’Connell received the good news that his submission resulted in the Lisle Park District receiving a refurbished youth ball field, designed and renovated by Ripken Design and FIELDS, Inc.
    Lisle was one of 12 communities selected to receive a refurbished playing field as part of Chevrolet’s Diamonds and Dreams program. One winner is chosen each week through July 22. In its third year, Diamonds & Dreams has awarded more than 25 youth field makeovers across the country. A representative from the Diamonds and Dreams program reviewed multiple Lisle Park District fields and selected Arbor View Park, a neighborhood park with an older ball field as the best candidate.
    “The timing couldn’t be more perfect. We were budgeting to renovate the Arbor View ball field in the 2013 Capital Budget,” said Dan Garvy, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Jack’s gesture and success winning the Diamonds and Dreams program absolutely saved the Lisle Park District and the taxpayers $20,000. We are budgeting to have the backstop replaced in 2013, hopefully before the spring season begins. We would like to have an all-new field, inside and outside the lines.”
    To celebrate the newly renovated field, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, carnival, giveaways and baseball clinic on Saturday, October 13 from 10am to 12noon. A schedule of activities is as follows: 10:00am Complimentary refreshments and giveaways; 11:00am Grant explanation, Project Recap and Ribbon Cutting; 11:15am Carnival and Clinic hosted by Lisle Baseball–Softball and the DuPage Hounds. The baseball clinic will be given by coaches and volunteers and is open to both adults and children, just bring a glove and bat. This event is being sponsored by Lisle Park District, Lisle Baseball-Softball, Chevrolet, Bill Kay Chevrolet, Lisle Baseball-Softball and Scotts. “Spread the word, bring your baseball glove and get ready for a day of October Baseball in Lisle,” said Dan Garvy, Director of Parks and Recreation.
    Renovations of the field makeover were administered through Ripken Design, a division of Ripken Baseball, owned and operated by National Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken, Jr. and 12-year Major League Baseball veteran Bill Ripken. “I have been working with Chevy for about two decades and it is a relationship I value a great deal,” said Cal Ripken. Together we are positively impacting kids through baseball at the grassroots level and giving them safe places to play. It is a very gratifying part of what we do, and I appreciate Chevrolet making us a part of this terrific effort.”
    The Official Lawn Care Company of Major League Baseball™, Scotts, will continue to partner with Chevrolet and lend its support to multiple field refurbishments. “Scotts believes that it is important to offer youths a safe, reliable field and playing area. In addition to helping reduce injuries, a strong foundation of thick and lush grass helps to create a beautiful outdoor environment that encourage children to spend time outdoors,” said Chris Strunk, Scotts manager, sports marketing and sponsorship.
    As the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball™, Chevrolet also supports the Chevrolet Youth Baseball (CYB) program, which has helped raise more than $13 million to aid local teams during the past seven years. More than 3 million young people in communities across the country have benefitted. More than 1,600 Chevrolet dealers are participating this year. For more information about Chevrolet’s support of baseball, the Diamonds & Dreams program and a chance to win, please visit www.chevybaseball.com.
About The Lisle Park District
The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About Ripken Design
Ripken Design (RD) is a division of Ripken Baseball, the sales and marketing company based in Baltimore, MD. that represents all business and philanthropic efforts of National Baseball Hall of Famer, Cal Ripken Jr. and 12-year Major League Baseball veteran, Bill Ripken. RD assists municipalities, ownership groups and investors with the design, management and development of unique complexes used for sports and other activities. Their experience, insight and perspective give RD the ability to forge strong public/private partnerships maximizing the benefits for their clients and partners. Professional baseball wisdom, from both an executive and player perspective, provides RD a unique position in today’s marketplace that achieves the goals of builders. For more information, visit www.RipkenDesign.com.
About Scotts Miracle-Gro
With approximately $3 billion in worldwide sales, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Scotts Company LLC, is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The Company's brands are the most recognized in the industry. In the U.S., the Company's Scotts®, Miracle-Gro® and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories, as is the consumer Roundup® brand, which is marketed in North America and most of Europe exclusively by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. In Europe, the Company's brands include Weedol®, Pathclear®, Evergreen®, Levington®, Miracle-Gro®, KB®, Fertiligene® and Substral®. For additional information, visit us at www.scotts.com.

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 September 25, 2012 - download press release

The Lisle Park District Adds Site to List of Park Properties
    Lisle, IL – In response to its 2006 Master Plan, recent community surveys and ongoing feedback from park district residents, the Lisle Park District purchased a four acre parcel at 4S281 Leask Lane in the northwest corner of the district. The property, formerly owned by the Bruce A. Germain Trust, sold for $525,000. “We are very excited about this acquisition. Knowing what this property was originally listed for as well as what other property owners in the area are asking for similarly sized parcels, $525,000 for this beautiful site is a great price and we couldn’t be more pleased.” said Don Cook, Park Board President.
    The District’s immediate plans for the site include: removing some of the overgrown vegetation, the eventual removal of the house, placement of picnic tables and the installation of appropriate site signage. Once the property is suitable for public use they will consider plans for park development. However, due to budget constraints the District doesn’t expect to enter that phase for at least a year or more. “The pursuit of acquiring property in this area has been a priority for years, and the current economic climate afforded us the opportunity to move forward. While complete site development might not occur for a few years, the opportunity to acquire property now was one that couldn’t be passed up.” said Director of Parks and Recreation Dan Garvy.
    Eventually, the park district will engage neighbors of the park to determine development plans. “Since our goal for this site is to provide recreational opportunities to the currently under-served section of our district, we will solicit feedback from those closest to the site including the residents of Pine Hill, Exeter, Canterbury, Corporate Woods, Hunt Club of Corporate Woods and other Park District residents along Leask Lane,” said Garvy. “At this point we envision a playground, picnic shelter, a small parking lot, walking trails and plenty of open space.”
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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 September 17, 2012 - download press release

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September 7, 2012 - download press release

Enjoy history, a firing cannon and a Civil War luncheon at Depot Days 2012
    Lisle, IL – Join us on Saturday, September 15, and Sunday, September 16 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., to experience a noisy remembrance of the Civil War while enjoying a Civil War luncheon and stepping back into the history of Lisle and DuPage County www.LisleHeritageSociety.org.
   Beginning at noon and hourly each day until 4 p.m., a group of Civil War re-enactors will fire a Civil War canon as part of the 28th Annual Depot Days celebration at The Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School St., Lisle. Admission is free. In between firings, the group, dressed in Civil War uniforms, will be on hand to explain how the canon fires, talk Civil War history and lead visitors through several displays including a Civil War encampment, in which members of the group will spend Saturday night.
  The group represents Taylor's Battery, a Chicago Light Artillery unit organized early in the Civil War by Ezra Taylor. Approximately 207 members from the greater Chicago region fought under Generals William T. Sherman and Ulysses S. Grant and were recognized as one of the finest light artillery units in the Army. The battery's six guns were heard at most of the great battles of the West, including Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Vicksburg, Chattanooga and Atlanta.
   From Noon to 2 p.m. each day, a special Civil War luncheon will be served under a tent in the commons featuring three favorite dishes of different Civil War Generals. Prepared by Wheatstack - A Midwestern Eatery & Tap as facility of the Lisle Park District, the luncheon will feature General Hill’s bean soup, General Butterfield’s shepherd pie and General Butler’s bread pudding. Cost of the luncheon is $7 per person.
   According to Civil War Period Cookery by Robert W. Pelton, the three generals had quite different personalities. Daniel Harvey Hill was a Major General for the Confederacy who was in charge of defending Richmond during the battle of Gettysburg. Daniel Butterfield was a Union Brigadier General who won the Medal of Honor for courage under fire. Union Major General Benjamin Franklin Butler was the Governor of New Orleans, but he was removed from this position and eventually removed from his command because of his dictatorial and corrupt ways.
   Other attractions on both Saturday and on Sunday include Civil War music sung by artists from the Old Town School of Folk Music, Miller’s Petting Zoo, a giant operating HO gauge railroad, Maggie the Milking Cow, children’s games from the 19th Century, a replica of the wooden Plank Toll Road, which once connected Aurora with Chicago and an operating Blacksmith Shop. For all of these activities at Depot Days, admission is free.
  There also will be demonstrations of pioneer crafts, hay rides, the Three Sister’s Garden and daily tours of Lisle’s Pioneer Cemetery. And, apple pies and cookies will be baking in the brick oven of the farm house’s summer kitchen.
  Restored 19th Century buildings open for touring include the old Lisle Train Station, Beaubien Tavern, the Netzley/Yender House and the working Blacksmith Shop. A recently restored waycar (caboose) from the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad will be open to tour. Civil War ear music will be provided by artists from the Old Town School of Folk Music, courtesy of the Friends of the Lisle Library. There will also be a used book sale and antique automobiles on display.
  Depot Days is organized by the Lisle Heritage Society in conjunction with the Lisle Park District. For further information, contact the Lisle Park District at 630-964-3410 or visit its website at www.LisleParkDistrict.org/depotdays. br> Note to editors: Photos of the petting zoo and of the Civil War canon firing are available upon request.

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August 24, 2012 - download press release

Inaugural Cross Town Classic Winners Announced
   DOWNERS GROVE and LISLE, Ill. – The Downers Grove Golf Club and River Bend Golf Club co-hosted the first Cross Town Classic Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 19, 2012. In a scramble format, the first nine holes were played at the Downers Grove Golf Club, 2420 Haddow Avenue. A continental breakfast was served at 7:00 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. The second nine holes were played at the Lisle Park District’s River Bend Golf Club, 5900 Illinois 53, with a shotgun start at 12:00 p.m. A barbecue and awards ceremony was held in the tent at River Bend after the tournament. First place, second place and contest winners are:
First place, low gross – 13 under par score of 59: John Ford, Audi Adrityan, Ross Tomsick, Tim Zita
Second place – 10 under par score of 62: Dan Brochmann, Billy Klimah, Bob Keating, Ed Schwarz
Longest Drive (women)- Laura Saran
Closest to the pin (women)-Sue Gladden
Longest Drive (men)-Jim Goodwin
Closest to pin (men)-Curt Petersen
   Both Downers Grove Golf Club and River Bend Golf Club would like to thank the participants and Gary Farrar, River Bend Pro Shop Manager for organizing the tournament. A special thank you goes to Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery of Downers Grove and BMO Harris Bank Lisle for supporting the event. In photo: First place winners: John Ford, Audi Adrityan, Ross Tomsick, Tim Zita, Ryan Stulgin, Operations Manager at Downers Grove Park District and Debi Culbertson, Operations Manager River Bend Golf Club.
   The Downers Grove Park District is dedicated to providing a wide variety of year-round recreation programs, facilities, parks, open space and natural areas that respond to the articulated needs and desires of residents. For more information, call (630) 963-1300, or visit www.dgparks.org.
   The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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August 23, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Park District Awards 2012 Robert Kuzmicki Education Scholarships
    Lisle, IL – Thursday, August 16, at the regular monthly board meeting of the Lisle Park District Board of Park Commissioners, Ryan Twaddle and Jake Haseltine were announced as recipients of the Robert Kuzmicki Education Scholarship. The scholarship was created in memory of Bob Kuzmicki, who lost his battle with a rare form of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in December of 2005. Bob, a devoted father and husband was also the Lisle Park District’s facility specialist and was well known by many patrons at Sea Lion Aquatic Park for his dedication to the facility.
    The scholarship applicants were asked to explain the importance of community involvement and how it applies to their lives, the benefits of the park district, and how their work ethic will affect their future goals. Lisle students Ryan Twaddle and Jake Haseltine were chosen by the scholarship committee to receive the two $500 scholarships. They exhibit a strong dedication to serving the Lisle Community, education, and the world. The Lisle Park District received many qualified applications, however these two young men stood out as exemplary individuals. The Lisle Park District, the Board of Park Commissioners, and Partners for Parks, wish both Ryan and Jake the best in their endeavors. The application for the 2013 Robert Kuzmicki Education Scholarship is available online at: www.LisleParkDistrict.org/scholarship

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    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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July 20, 2012 - download press release

Family Fun Fest Serves up Summer Fun for the Entire Family
    Lisle, IL – Join us at the Lisle Park District’s inaugural Family Fun Fest on Friday, July 27 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Formerly known as “Penny Carnival,” this all-ages special event is making its debut with a fun-filled evening for the entire family. Kids of all ages can win prizes at more than 20 fun fair games that will entertain and challenge. There will also be face painting, arts and crafts, inflatables, temporary tattoos and you won’t want to miss the “drench the counselor” game! Snack items will also be available for purchase. A $10 punch card can be purchased in advance at the Recreation Center, 1925 Ohio Street, or Sea Lion Aquatic Park, 1825 Short Street. The punch cards will also be available for sale at the event. (One $10 punch card contains 25 punches and each activity costs 1-3 punches.) You’ll find this evening of fun at the Lisle Community Park Bandshell, 1825 Short Street in Lisle with the rain location at the Lisle High School Commons. Help us kick off this new summer fun fest that’s sure to make you smile! For more information about the Family Fun Fest visit: www.LisleParkDistrict.org/FamilyFunFest or call 630-964-3410.
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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 July 19, 2012 - download press release

Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Mixers for the “Best Apple Pie in Lisle Contest”
    Lisle, IL – Wheatstack - A Midwestern Eatery & Tap, located at 5900 S. Route 53, is hosting the first “Best Apple Pie in Lisle Contest” on Saturday, August 4, with the support of the Lisle Park District. Lisle residents are invited to enter as many varied two-crust apple pies as they can bake, and keep in mind that creativity is essential for a healthy competition! Besides the glory and high acclaim of having the best homemade apple pie in Lisle, the winner will also have the honor of having their apple pie featured at Wheatstack during the month of August. Detailed contest rules and the registration form can be found online at: www.WheatstackLisle.com/events. The completed form and $5 registration fee must be submitted by Wednesday, August 1 to Lisa Leone at the Lisle Park District, 1925 Ohio Street, Lisle, IL 60532. Only the first 20 registrations will be accepted and judged.
    The apple pie(s) submitted in the “Best Apple Pie in Lisle Contest” must be brought to Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap by 2pm on Saturday, August 4. Judging will take place from 3pm-4pm and special Lisle dignitaries will be the judges, including: Wheatstack’s Executive Chef Tim Dowling, Lisle Park District Board Commissioner Debra Morse, and two other surprise judges. Judging criteria will be based on appearance, crust, flavor, filling and creativity.
    Then, stick around after the “Best Apple Pie in Lisle Contest” for Wheatstack’s second annual Great American BBQ from 4pm-10pm. This year’s event will feature live music from Tomorrow’s Alliance, winners of the Lisle Park District local Illinois Battle of the Bands from 4pm-6pm, The Next Tuesday Band from 7pm-10pm, pie your favorite Lisle Park District staff in the face with prizes, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, barbequed food and drink specials. For more information, please visit: www.WheatstackLisle.com/events or call 630-968-1920.

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June 27, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Community Park Requests Votes to Help Win $100,000 Grant
    Lisle, IL – The Lisle Park District’s Lisle Community Park is a strong contender to win the title of "America's Favorite Park" in Coca-Cola’s Live Positively campaign, but it needs your votes! At the time of this article, Lisle Community Park is in 27th place with 86,300 votes. The park with the most votes will win a $100,000 recreation grant, with second and third place winning $50,000 and $25,000 grants, respectively. Finally, one lucky park will be randomly selected from the remaining top 25 to receive a $15,000 grant. Submit your vote now through July 15, 2012 for Lisle Community Park online at www.LivePositively.com/parks and searching for Lisle Community Park by name. Online votes, either by computer or phone are worth one vote each. However, using the Foursquare app on your smartphone generates 100 votes by “checking in” at Lisle Community Park. Directions for voting and using Foursquare, can be found at www.lisleparkdistrict.org/vote.
    With the community’s assistance, Lisle Community Park has a chance to take home the grand prize. The great thing about this contest is that any park can win, big or small. According to the Coca-Cola website, “Last year, Oak Park in the small town of Minot, ND, captured the title of “America’s Favorite Park” and the $100,000 recreation grant. The community united to vote for Oak Park, which was completely destroyed last year in a historic flood. The grant helped with the park’s restoration so families have a place to play together again. It takes an entire community to help a park win big.” The Lisle Park District is requesting your help, so “check-in” every two hours for 100 votes and vote online early and often!
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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June 21, 2012 - download press release

Seniors Sink Hole in One on the Same Hole, Hours Apart
     Lisle, IL – River Bend Golf Club was buzzing with excitement on the morning of Tuesday, May 15, with the news that Robert Van Iderstine, a regular, aced hole five, a par three. At six-thirty in the morning, before many of us had started the day, Van Iderstine was teeing off as a substitute in a Senior League foursome. “It was an early sunny morning and we were the first on the course. There was some glare, so I took out my five iron and lofted the ball. I knew it was online, but didn’t see where the ball landed.” After the other members of the foursome took their shots, they approached the hole thinking Van Iderstine had flied the green until someone said, “Bob, you’d better go get your ball out of the hole.” Van Iderstine retells the exhilaration that followed: “Everything went crazy. I was more shocked than excited and it took a while for me to accept it, but from there it was fantastic. It was my first ace, but hopefully not my last.” The rest of the game was a blur, but Bob returned to the pro shop ready to celebrate with his foursome. However, at that early hour the bar at Wheatstack, the restaurant on the property, had not yet opened so he bought everyone a celebratory round of coffee. The excitement was palpable as the pro shop staff promptly added Van Iderstine’s name to the Hole in One Club and returned to their daily tasks.
    Just a few hours later, Frank Jenkover began a weekly game with his Senior League foursome. He admitted the day began was off to a great start by shooting only a five on the first hole instead of going into the water, like usual. Jenkover continued to par each hole and then approached hole five, the same hole that everyone was talking about. He pulled out a seven-iron and teed up his logoed River Bend golf ball. One of the members of the foursome watched the ball roll towards the pin, but lost track of it. Jenklover assumed that since the ball was not visible on the green, it must have rolled off the back of the green. This is what happened a few years ago when he prematurely celebrated a hole in one. The foursome approached the hole with trepidation, but there sat the River Bend Golf Club logo looking up at them. Jenkover finally had his hole in one, and by this time of day, the group was able to celebrate at Wheatstack.
    Incredibly, two aces were scored on the same day, on the same hole. When asked, neither gentleman had thought to purchase a lottery ticket, but clearly the odds were in their favor. According to the US Golf Insurance Agency, the odds of an average golfer scoring a hole in one are 12,500 to 1. The odds of two golfers scoring a hole in one on the same hole is unbelievably rare, roughly 32,000 to 1. River Bend happily lists winners to the Hole in One Club in the pro shop and on their virtual wall of fame online.
    It is the Mission of River Bend Golf Club to incorporate the course’s natural resources in a premier, 9-hole playing experience accommodating all skill levels in a fun, friendly and affordable environment. For more information about River Bend Golf Club, a facility of the Lisle Park District, please call 630-968-1920 or visit www.RiverBendGolfClub.org.

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May 30, 2012 - download press release

The Museums at Lisle Station Park and local museums offer cure for summer boredom with Passport to Adventure
    Lisle, IL –  Did you know that there are affordable family-focused excursions all around you? The Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School Street, along with local museums in DuPage and Kane Counties invite children on a quest this summer to find fun facts, mysterious stories, amazing outdoors, and unbelievable history. The annual “Passport to Adventure Program” is your ticket to the many amazing and exciting activities that museums provide to enrich our lives and communities. In addition, the Museums at Lisle Station Park and many other sites are free to visit!
     Children can explore all the wonders that local museums have to offer including art, history and living history, science, games, and nature. Many sites have designed special activities for children who participate in the program. At each location, your child can receive a stamp in their passport booklet. Fill your passport with as many stamps as you can! At the end of the summer, children with seven or more stamps can return their passports to the site stamped on the front page to receive a prize.
     The Passport to Adventure Program is designed for children between the ages of 4 and 12 and sponsored by the Kane-DuPage Regional Museum Association. The program begins each year on Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day. Passports can be -picked up at one of the 50 local museums or libraries that are participating in the program. Keep your passport as a reference guide for fun places to visit throughout the year. For more information, please contact your area museum or visit the Kane-DuPage Regional Museum website at www.kdrma.org.

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Contact: Jeanne Schultz Angel, President, KDRMA, 630-629-8233
The Kane-DuPage Regional Museum Association is an alliance of more than sixty museums. The organization serves its members through collaborative programming, promotion, professional development, and networking.

April 27, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Park District Awarded Earth Flag for Sustainability and Environmental Leadership
    Lisle, IL – The Lisle Park District received the esteemed “Earth Flag” and a resolution of commendation from the DuPage County Board on Thursday, April 29, 2012 at the meeting of the Board of Park Commissioners. Kay McKeen, Founder and Executive Director of School & Community Assistance for Recycling & Composting Education (SCARCE) presented the Earth Flag, symbolic of reducing environmental impact, green responsibility and leadership to the Lisle Park District. Together with SCARCE, a resolution was presented by DuPage County Board Member Michael Ledonne which commended the Park District for approving an environmental policy, completing training to enhance green efforts, expanding the recycling program, planting native vegetation and using organic fertilizers, to name a few of the eco-friendly actions cited.
    Becoming a green leader in Lisle and the greater Lisle community has been an initiative of the Lisle Park District and became a significant focus for Michael Toohey, Superintendent of Recreation, when he was hired in 2008. At that time, Toohey proposed the Park District begin working with SCARCE towards the Earth Flag certification. Inspired by his enthusiasm, a green committee was formed and the crayon and shoe recycling programs along with a number of other green initiatives were a result. Toohey also initiated the Abitibi Paper Retriever recycling program and has recycled over 83.747 tons of paper saving over 1,424 trees. When the Lisle Park District Board of Park Commissioners passed the Environmental Policy to “establish standards to promote sound environmental practices” the District was well on the way towards achieving Earth Flag certification.
    During the summer of 2011, the Park District took strides in renovating the existing building at 1925 Ohio Street which is now the new Recreation Center. The construction utilized environmentally-friendly resources and repurposed existing building materials. After the Recreation Center opened, SCARCE performed an “environmental audit" of the facility and existing positive sustainability initiatives (CFL lights bulbs, automatic lights, rain barrels, on-site recycling) and areas for improvement (change font to Century Gothic which reportedly uses 30% less ink than Arial, switch to all green cleaning products). Following the audit, the Park District completed the SCARCE Sustainability Assessment outlining environmental efforts made since 2008, resulting in Thursday’s Earth Flag certification.
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

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April 19, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Park District and Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc. Partner to Keep Fields Safe and Looking Great
    Lisle, IL – Although the season is only six months of the year, the Lisle Park District plans and prepares for baseball and softball season year-round. Along with input from the Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc., the focus for renovations is both better playing conditions and improving safety for participants and spectators. This year’s improvements will not only create a safer environment, but also provide Lisle some of the best-looking ball fields in the area. Together with the Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc., the Lisle Park District has made dozens of upgrades throughout the twenty ball fields in within the Lisle Park District service area.
“Our goal, along with Lisle Baseball-Softball league is to provide quality athletic programming for our residents, both young and old alike. The improvements made to the fields in the off season will help us make great strides in achieving this goal.” Erica Wise, Lisle Park District Athletic & Youth Camp Manager and Lisle Slammers Travel Softball 13U Head Coach.
    New infields were graded at Arbor View Park, Community Park fields one, two, five, and six, Kennedy Jr. High, Scheisher School, Surrey Ridge Athletic Complex field two and three, Tate Woods Park, and Todd Riley field at Beau Bien Park. The new dirt and infield grading improves the playability by creating a smoother surface which assists in drainage. Fewer games are cancelled due to muddy fields or puddles after heavy rains. At Community Park fields one, two, and five, dugout fencing was extended to help prevent foul balls from striking players seated in the dugouts. In addition, the entire baseball diamond at Tate Woods Park was moved 25 feet southwest to reduce the impact of trees around the perimeter of the field and improve safety for pedestrians using the walking path behind the backstop.
    Throughout 2011 and 2012, new fencing has been a significant focus in order to provide safer games for both players and spectators outside the field of play. Surrey Ridge Athletic Complex fields one through three, Tate Woods Park and Todd Riley Field all received new fencing that is a heavier grade, is higher to improve player and spectator safety, and is much more visually appealing. The fencing at Community Park field one was replaced to reduce the occurrence of dangerous and unpredictable bounces that could injure players. Also, field six at Community Park received much-needed safety upgrades including new fences around the perimeter, raised fences in front of the dugouts to improve player safety and enlarged dugouts to provide a safer on-deck area.
   "Lisle Baseball Softball League is committed to providing the boys and girls of Lisle and neighboring communities with the best possible playing conditions. We are proud of the ball fields in Lisle and appreciate the opportunity to work with the Lisle Park District in keeping the softball and baseball diamonds in great condition." Randy LaBelle, President of Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc. More information about Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc. is available at www.lislebaseballsoftball.org. On behalf of the Lisle Baseball Softball League, Inc., the Lisle Park District is collecting gently used baseball/softball equipment for “Pitch in for Baseball.” The equipment collected is distributed throughout underprivileged communities “from Philly to the Philippines.” Donations may be brought to the Recreation Center, 1925 Ohio Street, Lisle, IL 60432.
    The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, Senior Center and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.LisleParkDistrict.org.

April 13, 2012 - download press release

Lisle Park District Kicks off Summer Season with Something for Everyone!

Lisle, IL - Although it may not feel like it, summer has arrived at the Lisle Park District. With the debut of the 2012 summer brochure, residents can start registering for swim lessons, camps and softball leagues (nonresident registration begins April 16). The unseasonably warm weather weeks ago allowed River Bend Golf Club to open ahead of schedule and Sea Lion Aquatic Park will be opening in just six short weeks. You will not want to miss any of the special events offered throughout the summer, many of which fill quickly. Please visit www.lisleparkdistrict.org or call 630-964-3410 for more information on any of the following events or programs.

Lisle Park District Family Special Events

24^th Annual Lisle-Woodridge Fire Fighters Union Fishing Derby | Saturday, May 26 from 6am-1pm

The Lisle-Woodridge Fire Fighters Union is pleased to announce their 24th Annual Youth/Adult Fishing Derby. Prizes will be awarded every hour of fishing for the largest catch in each of the six game fish categories. At the conclusion of the derby, awards will be presented for the overall largest catch in each category. Only kids up to the age of 14 are allowed to fish and are eligible for prizes. All kids must have adult supervision. You are encouraged to pre-register early through the Lisle Park District. All youths pre-registered by May 12 are guaranteed an Official Derby T-Shirt. Additional shirts may be available after the deadline or on derby day. Live bait (worms) will be sold at the derby, as well as food, snacks, hot and cold beverages. Participants and their families will be eligible for raffle prizes throughout the event. Location: South Shelter, Community Park Age: 3 – 14.  Please call to register by 5/12, 630-964-3410, code 6127, cost is $8.

Free Movies in Community Park After Dark: FREE! PG Rated movies start at approximately 8:30pm. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets. Location: Community Park Bandshell All ages welcome!

Tuesday, June 14 - Remember the Titans

Tuesday, June 26  - Ghostbusters

Tuesday, July 10 - Goonies

Tuesday, July 24 - Raiders of the Lost Ark

Tuesday, August 7 - Hook

Totally Tuesdays: FREE Kids Lunchtime Entertainment
Pack a lunch and head to the Community Park Band Shell for these great lunchtime performances! Performances are from 11:45am-12:45pm. All ages welcome!

6/12 – Dave Rudolf - Brace yourself for a truly fun and interactive show featuring tons of music, laughter, and kid participation. Kids will love being on stage with Dave to show their wild side during “I want to be an Ape man” or showing off their hula hoping skill during “Terror on a Tricycle” or limboing, and tons of other cool audience participation numbers. Featuring sound effects, props, backdrops, and original music from multi award winning artist Dave Rudolf, you and your kids will have a blast! Oh, and don’t worry parents, Dave throws in tons of stuff for you as well.

7/17 – Little Nashville - Award-winning, Little Nashville, is a high energy, family-focused live concert that features the stylings of today's country music coupled with contagious lyrics that children of all ages are sure to enjoy. There's a new sheriff in town... and she fronts the group with a roof-raising stage performance while educating children with important lessons about the world around them. Music fills the air and plenty of fun is to be had. From stories to tell to great sing-alongs and dances, Little Nashville is the perfect get-a-way for kids and families alike. If you love good rockin' country music for both young and old that teaches wholesome values, then this is one event you can't miss.

8/7 – Kidbucks Gameshow - Kidbucks is an action packed audience interactive game show in which kids compete in wild and crazy games for the chance to enter the Kidbucks money chamber and grab as many Kidbucks as they can in 30 seconds. The Kidbucks are redeemed for a prize based on how many bucks are collected.  This show is fun for the whole family!

Family Fun Fest (formerly Penny Carnival) | Friday, July 27 from 6:30-8:30pm

Come out this summer to the Lisle Park District’s newest special event! The Community Park Bandshell area will be filled with fun for the whole family.  Win prizes at more than 20 fun fair games that will entertain and challenge. Get your face painted, make art, or jump in the bounce house. Don’t miss the tattoos and pinch burst game!  Snacks will also be available. Rain Location: Lisle High School Commons. Location: Community Park Bandshell All ages welcome! $10 for a punch card of 25 punches. Volunteers Needed! Anyone in 6th grade or older wanting to volunteer should contact the Recreation Center at 630-964-3410.