Community Newsletter May/June 2024

bensenville hello!

a lifelong learning community | may/june 2023

LIBERTYFEST

Welcome Summer!

Exciting developments are underway at the Bensenville Park District, with several capital projects set to elevate outdoor experiences for patrons. Prepare for a rejuvenated pool surface at Bensenville Water Park, promising summer-long fun for families. Sunrise Park will also undergo a remarkable overhaul with the help of a state grant, featuring new soccer fields, pickleball courts, an accessible playground and more. Meanwhile, Arbor Park’s second phase of development ensures ongoing evolution to meet community needs. Join the Park ‘N Play initiative this summer, encouraging residents to enjoy neighborhood parks, while special events like the Mother’s Day Brunch at White Pines and new offerings like the Bensenville Swim Team and the car show and sock hop at White Pines promise something for everyone.

GET OUT AND PLAY!

The Bensenville Park District is continuing to bring more activities and programs to neighborhood parks! These parks serve a wide range of recreation needs based on the surrounding neighborhood, with many activities and amenities to keep visitors of all ages active and engaged for an entire day. Activities include movies in the park, Fitness Dayz, Railroad Museum open houses noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday and other special events.

Don’t miss the May 18 Drive-In Movie at White Pines! Watch the original Space Jam on a golf cart at the driving range. There is a $10 cart fee at White Pines, and each cart can hold two adults. Refreshments will be available for sale. Register in advance at the DGLC. On June 8, watch Trolls Band Together at Arbor Park. Both movies begin at dusk.

Try an outdoor Zumba class at Sunset Park Saturday, June 15, as part of the summer Fitness Dayz that bring park district fitness programs to neighborhood parks. Other events include a free Yoga at Fischer Farm and Sunrise Yoga & Mimosas ($25) at White Pines in July and Zumba Surf N Turf ($8 | $6 in-district) at the Water Park and a free Outdoor Bootcamp at Varble Park in August. Be sure to check out the variety of activities coming to neighborhood parks at BvilleParks.org/park-n-play!

WOOD STREET FITNESS

Spice up group fitness workouts during Wood Street Fitness’ free Fitness de Mayo celebration Monday, May 6! The center will be offering its regularly-scheduled Monday classes with a fun, Mexican theme, props for photos and an additional free fun fiesta with food provided by Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill.

BENSENVILLE SPORTS CONFERENCE

From youth sports activities such as Teach Me Sports, Soccer Stompers, Kids Karate Club, Sports Explorers, Tiny Tot Tumbling and boys and girls volleyball skills to adult co-ed softball and volleyball, there’s something for everyone.

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Join us for Bensenville’s Fourth of July festivities kicking off at 10 am at 12 S. Center Street in Town Center with our annual parade. The parade travels east on Green Street, continuing south on York Road, turning east onto Jefferson Street, and finishing at the Redmond Recreational Complex.

Following the parade celebrate with food and drink (available for purchase) and live music provided by DJ M.B. Entertainment at 6 pm and The Country Night performing at 7 pm. Then cap of the evening with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9:30 pm.

For more information visit bensenville.il.us.

The statements and opinions expressed in this newsletter do not reflect the views, opinions, thoughts or beliefs of each member organization. The member organizations are not responsible for opinions or statements made individually or by other organizations. For information, contact kbuczek@benlib.org. Deadline for July/August is May 26, 2024. IN THIS ISSUE

SUMMER CAMPS

The Bensenville Park District’s summer camps provide hours of safe, supervised fun and promote development, teamwork, and socialization. Camps adhere to all IDPH and CDC guidelines while the kids have a blast. During each exciting day, campers will participate in a wide variety of engaging games, projects, crafts, and of course, daily swim time at the water park. There’s even before- and after- camp programs! For details on the many different camps available, visit BvilleParks.org/Camps.

WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB

White Pines will offer patrons the opportunity to test and purchase the latest in golf technology from Callaway and TaylorMade during the club’s fitting days. Expert club fitters, along with professionals from White Pines, will help customers optimize their swings using a data-driven approach. The dates are as follows:

FRIDAY | MAY 3 | 2-6 PM | TAYLORMADE

SUNDAY | MAY 5 | 10 AM-2 PM | CALLAWAY

TUESDAY | JUNE 11 | 2-6 PM | TAYLORMADE

Deer Grove Leisure Center

Administrative Office

1000 West Wood Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 766 7015

BvilleParks.org

@BvilleParks

White Pines Golf Club

500 West Jefferson Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 766 0304

WhitePinesGolf.com

@GolfWhitePines

Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad

1100 West Wood Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 766 SWIM (7946)

@BvilleWaterPark

Fischer Farm

16W680 Old Grand Avenue

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 834 3152

@BvilleFischerFarm

Wood Street Fitness Center

1000 West Wood Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 766 7015

WoodStFitness.com

@WoodStFitness

Board of Commissioners

Rich Johnson | President

Val Karg | Vice President

Jay Snyder | Treasurer

Nancy Gibbs | Secretary

Christopher Hernandez | Commissioner

Executive Director

Joseph C. Vallez

Register by 6 pm, Friday, May 3, and save $10 off each full 10-day session reserved for the all-new Fischer Farm Discovery Camp (ages 6-10), Adventure Camp (ages 6-10), Sports Camp (ages 6-10) and Teen Camp (ages 11-15). You may also take advantage of the discount for registering multiple children during this time.

Tot Camp offers a caring and gentle introduction to the camp experience for two-year-olds with a new and exciting theme presented each week from 9 to 11:15 am, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sunshine Camp (ages 3-5) is designed to foster children’s growth and independence through exploration, guest speakers, sports, camp songs and playground time in addition to visits to the splash pad. The camps run from 9 am to noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. The new Sunset Camps (ages 3-5) run noon to 3 pm, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays as campers engage in their world through crafts, stories, songs, indoor and outdoor games and play time.

WATER PARK & SPLASH PAD

Stay cool at the pool! With a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot Splash Pad, sun deck, and a full-service concession stand, the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad is your home for summer fun! The season opens Memorial Day.

The Water Park & Splash Pad has two great ways to save on admission! Pick up season passes today at the Deer Grove Leisure Center for unlimited admission to the park, free admission to aqua fitness classes, discount admission to water park events and three free guest passes! Don’t want a season pass? Indistrict patrons can pick up the new Bville Bundle, which consists of a 10-pack of daily admissions for just $99.

Learn to swim in the Tide Pool Water Explorers, Preschool, and Bensenville Swim Schools (four levels) programs. Private swim lessons are also available. Check the Summer Program Guide for more details.

Unlock the potential within each young swimmer by joining the Bensenville Swim Team—an aquatic community for ages 5-16 dedicated to fostering skill development, sportsmanship and a lifelong love of swimming. Fees are $450 per person. Sign up at the Deer Grove Leisure Center to become part of the Bensenville Swim Team Family!

SUNDAY | JULY 7 | 10 AM-2 PM | CALLAWAY

SATURDAY | AUGUST 18 | 10 AM-2 PM | CALLAWAY

Visit WhitePinesGolf.com for more information and to register. Treat Mom to a lavish Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 12 from 11 am to 12:30 pm, with breakfast items plus chicken limone, roasted potatoes, rigatoni a la vodka, soup/salad bar, prime rib carving station, plus pastries and desserts. Register at 630.766.0304 x300. $59.95 for adults and $29 for children required at registration. Prices include all tax and service fees. Don’t forget! Females golf free on Mother’s Day as part of the club’s Mother’s Day special. Tee times are required. Restrictions apply. Book tee times at WhitePinesGolf.com.

Jim Geils Family Golf Nights—named for former commissioner Jim Geils—will begin at 5 pm on May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18 and September 15. $5 for juniors 17 and under and $10 for adults. Cart fees $10 per cart and $10 to ride along without playing. Tees will be moved up for each of the family nights, and players will be able to play at their own pace. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available.

FISCHER FARM FUN

Don’t miss any of the new family activities at Fischer Farm! The fun begins May 7 by crafting a personalized Animal Stuffie alongside farm staff. On May 15, lace up those hiking boots for the Farm Nature Hike, exploring the scenic farm grounds and discovering hidden treasures along the way. On May 17 we will commemorate Endangered Species Day, delving into the world of endangered/threatened species and learning about conservation efforts. The excitement continues on May 19 with a celebration of National Garden Month, featuring insights from farmer Bob and Chris the gardener on starting your own garden program at home.

On June 2, Fischer Farm invites patrons to release ladybugs while engaging in crafts and discussions with a park district naturalist. Explore the fascinating world of beekeeping on June 15, and get an up-close look at the essential role honey bees play in crop pollination and honey harvesting. Family fun awaits on June 20 with Nature/Farm BINGO, and cap off the month on June 30 with a colorful adventure at the Farm Rainbow Hunt, searching for rainbow hues across the farm landscape. Don’t miss out on these exciting programs and more – sign up at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, fees vary for each program.

Village Manager

Evan K. Summers

Congresswoman Delia Ramirez brings $1 Million for Railroad Grade Separation Project

The Village of Bensenville was honored to host Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03) for a press conference celebrating the successful package of $14.1 million in federal funding for 15 community projects in the Illinois 3rd District. Elected officials and community leaders from across the District attended the press conference, during which Congresswoman Ramirez announced $1 million of federal funds are going towards supporting improvements at York Rd that will address the increase of railroad service coming in and out of the CPKC Railway Bensenville Yard.

Sweet Treats at Sundaes Too Ice Cream Shop!

Located in Bensenville’s Center Theatre at 9 S. Center Street, Sundaes Too offers a variety of ice cream flavors and frozen treats including a limited selection of nondairy options. Stop by during Music In The Park this summer!

SPRING INTO ACTION

Spring is just around the corner and with warmer weather comes the opportunity for many home improvement projects. Please be mindful of the Village code to avoid a citation this spring. For questions regarding Village rules and regulations, stop by the Community and Economic Development counter at Village Hall or call 630.350.3413.

1. Parking on Grass and Inoperable Vehicles are Prohibited | All parking and driveway areas shall be paved with asphalt, concrete or approved paver brick and kept in good repair. Parking on the grass or gravel is not permitted. No inoperative or unlicensed motor vehicle shall be parked, kept or stored on any premises. Motor vehicles owned by village residents require a village sticker.

2. Tall Grass & Weeds / Alley Clean Up | All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or grass growth in excess of 8”. The exterior property shall be maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition. Maintain the alley free from tall grass, weeds, trash, rubbish, and lowhanging tree branches.

3. Trash, Recycle, TVs & Electronics Curbside Garbage and yard waste containers can be put to the curb or alley no earlier than 12 hours prior to pick-up and must be removed no later than 12 hours after pickup. Electronic

devices including TVs and computer electronics shall not be placed at the curb for disposal. Contact your local recycling center for disposal. Additionally, Addison Township offers several recycling events each year.

4. Brush Pick-up & Maintenance of Parkway Trees Republic Services collects brush from April through November. Individual branches less than three feet in length and one inch in diameter will be picked up on your regular trash collection day from your regular collection point. Village crews collect larger brush on the first Monday of each month from April through November. Parkway trees are maintained as part of the Village’s Urban Forest Tree Preservation & Protection Plan. If a parkway tree appears damaged or in need of pruning, contact Public Works at 630.350.3435 or via the SeeClickFix app.

2024 VILLAGE BRUSH AND BRANCH PICK-UP

Do Not Bundle Brush or Branches 2024

REPUBLIC SERVICES collects April through November. Individual branches less than three feet in length and one inch in diameter on your regular trash collection day from your regular collection point. Place in biodegradable paper bags or garbage cans with two Yard Waste Only labels attached. Yard Waste Only stickers can be picked up for free at the Village Hall. Republic Services collects these branches with other residential yard waste.

To discard root balls, break them up into small enough pieces to fit into your trash container for Republic Services to collect.

VILLAGE CREWS collect larger brush on the first full week of each month from April through November with the following regulations:

• Brush may be placed on the parkway for collection beginning the Friday before the scheduled collection week, but no later than 7:00 am on the first Monday of each month.

• Each street receives a single collection during a scheduled week; placing brush or branches out after the deadline can result in a citation and no pickup.

• Brush piles should be placed on the street side of the property NOT in the alleys.

• Place cut ends of brush and branches towards the street without root systems.

• Individual branches must not exceed eight inches (8”) in diameter.

• Items larger than eight inches (8”) in diameter, materials such as construction wood, branches with nails or spikes, wooden fence pieces, rose branches, poison ivy and grass clippings/rakings are not collected during brush pick-up and must be disposed of by the resident through other means.

• Brush collection is for single-family residences only.

• Contractor-generated brush will NOT be collected.

• NO bundling of piles with rope or wire.

• Branches smaller than three feet (3’) in length and one inch (1”) in diameter should be placed in biodegradable bags or cans labeled Yard Waste Only for pickup by Republic Services.

Join us for a chance to win two free memberships to the Elmhurst Bicycle Club!

VILLAGE’S FREE MULCH PROGRAMS

The Village of Bensenville is proud to offer free mulch to incorporated Bensenville residents beginning this spring. Residents can choose to pick up their mulch or have it delivered by the Public Works Department. This opportunity is the result of in-town brush pickups, tree trimmings, and tree removals throughout the year. For additional details or to print a delivery application, please visit the Village’s website.

MULCH DELIVERY

Delivery will take place May 13 through May 17 and can accommodate up to 100 Bensenville households. To register for the program, residents must submit a signed application and waiver to Village Hall or the Bensenville Public Works Department by Friday, May 3, 2024. Residents can choose between a ½ truckload (2.5 cubic yards) or a full truckload (5.0 cubic yards). The drop-off location will be arranged following the approval of your application.

SELF-SERVE

A concrete mulch bin is located in the northeast corner of the Public Works Facility parking lot and is available 7 days a week. Residents are responsible for loading mulch and bringing their own containers, shovels, and transportation. The property is under surveillance—please be respectful of other residents and the Public Works Facility.

SENIOR GRASS CUTTING PROGRAM

The Village of Bensenville is pleased to announce the return of our Senior/Disabled Grass Cutting Program. This program is designed to be a low-cost solution for residents in need of assistance with grass cutting on their property. The Village hires independent contractors to provide common grass-cutting services and will subsidize fifty percent (50%) of the cost.

For complete program details, visit the Village website or call the Bensenville Public Works Department at 630.350.3435.

ADDISON TOWNSHIP ELECTRONICS & TEXTILE RECYCLING

Addison Township offers a variety of recycling opportunities throughout the year that are available to Bensenville residents. Their recycling program includes electronics, textiles, books, and paper.

Note that all acceptable items are free of charge, excluding CRT, flat screens, projection TVs, and monitors. Under 21” = $25/unit | 21” and over = $35/unit

Accepted electronic items include computers, laptops, servers, computer monitors, televisions, printers, facsimiles, scanners, VCR & DVD players, video game consoles, cable & converter boxes, satellite receivers, electronic keyboards, mice, portable music players, adapters, power supplies, cell phones, modems, and tablets.

LOCATION

Addison Township Highway Garage 411 West Potter Street Wood Dale | IL 60191

2024 DROP-OFF DATES

May 4 | August 3 | October 26

TIME

8 am – 12 pm

For additional details, please visit addisontownship.com or call 630.766.2228.

The Village is currently hiring for a variety of positions in multiple departments. To view all current openings, please visit the Village website and select the Employment Opportunities icon located on the home page.

Open positions include Zamboni Operators, Streets & Forestry, Public Works Seasonal, Janitorial, Lifeguards, and Aqua Fitness Instructors.

200 South Church Road

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

www.benlib.org 630 766 4642

HOURS

MONDAY | 9 AM-9 PM

TUESDAY | 9 AM-9 PM

WEDNESDAY | 9 AM-9 PM

THURSDAY | 9 AM-9 PM

FRIDAY | 9 AM-5 PM

SATURDAY | 9 AM-5 PM

SUNDAY | 1 PM-5 PM

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Linda Weiss | President

Tina Lux | Vice President

Susan Earley | Treasurer

Mandi Zalewski | Secretary Dr. Consuelo Cabral-Marquez Trustee

Michele Janovsky | Trustee

Amy Labickas | Trustee

Chris Sloan | Library Director

LIBRARY CLOSINGS

Monday, May 27 | Memorial Day

GET A Library Card

To register, renew, or replace a Bensenville Library card, you must bring a valid government-issued photo ID showing residence within the district, or a photo ID in combination with a recently issued document with a name and corresponding address within the district.For more information about registering for a card, visit benlib. org/get-a-card or give us a call and ask for the Circulation desk.

BENSENVILLE COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

SATURDAY | MAY 4 | 9 A.M. – 5 P.M. | ALL AGES

Stop by the library to pick up a free comic book!

TWELVE-O-FIVE COMICS CLUB @ BCPL

MONDAYS | MAY 6 AND MAY 20 | 5:30 P.M. | ALL AGES

Franco DeAstis of Twelve-O-Five Comics will drop in with new and popular comic book titles. Talk all things comics, share what you’re reading, participate in a drawing challenge, and enter a monthly prize raffle. All ages welcome, bring your family!

VERSITI BLOOD DRIVE

WEDNESDAY | MAY 8 | 12:30-5 P.M. | AGES 18+

Versiti Blood Center of Illinois will be hosting a blood drive at the library. Donating blood is one of the quickest ways to help your community. Walk-ins are welcome, but it is recommended to reserve an appointment at bit.ly/Blood-Drive-5-8-24. Please bring a photo ID and expect your appointment to take 45-60 minutes.

JAPONISME: CULTURAL CROSSINGS THAT INFLUENCED MODERN ART

WEDNESDAY | MAY 15 | 7-8 P.M. | FOR ADULTS | VIRTUAL ZOOM EVENT

This art talk will illuminate how some of our favorite artists—Whistler, the Impressionists, Van Gogh and the other decorative arts adapted and adopted Japanese techniques and aesthetic in their painting, printmaking, interior design, furnishings, fabrics, and fashion. Registration is required at benlib.org/calendar.

INTRO TO MINDFUL EATING

WEDNESDAY | MAY 22 | 7-8 P.M. | ALL AGES

Have you tried the newest diet year after year and are sick of the fluctuation food rules and confusing online nutrition advice? Join Registered DietitianNutritionist Katie Fischer to learn what it means to eat mindfully and how this practice might look in your life. Discover the freedom of making food choices based on your body’s signals and learn to cultivate a positive and mindful relationship with the food you eat. If you’re ready to ditch diets and embrace a more intuitive approach to eating, then this one’s for you!

Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life. Libraries change lives for the better.

—SIDNEY SHELDON

JUMP START YOUR GENEALOGY GROUP

SATURDAYS | MAY 11 AND JUNE 8 | 2-4 P.M. | ADULTS AND TEENS

Learn the basics of using Ancestry Library Edition, get help on your existing genealogy project, or come by to share stories. All skill levels welcome. Please bring a USB thumb drive or external hard drive if you want to save your research work. Registration is required at benlib.org/calendar or call the Library at 630.766.4642.

MOTHER’S DAY CARD MAKING PARTY

WEDNESDAY | MAY 8 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | ALL AGES

Do you want to make a Mother’s Day card for a special someone in your life? Join us for a night of fun card decorating with the whole family!

YOGA STORYTIME

EVERY THURSDAY IN MAY AND JUNE | AGES 4 AND UP

Join Ms. Stephanie for a yoga story time! Practice and learn new yoga poses with your little ones, and enjoy a yoga-themed story too. Due to limited space, this program is limited to 10 yogis- we recommend arriving a few minutes early to secure a spot.

DIY SUN PRINT

MONDAY | MAY 13 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | ALL AGES

Create a unique piece of silhouette art using light-sensitive paper and the power of the sun.

HEADED TO COLLEGE

WEDNESDAY | MAY 8 | 3:30-4:30 P.M. | GRADES 9-12

As recent college graduates, ISAC members offer important perspectives to high schoolers as they prepare for a smooth transition into college. This presentation covers common college resources and important logistical information, like how to accept financial aid and manage the student billing process.

SUMMER CRAFT CLUB

EVERY MONDAY BEGINNING JUNE 10 THROUGH AUGUST 5

11-11:45 A.M. | AGES 0-11

Do you have kids that just can’t get enough creative crafting fun? Bring them by the library to join Ms. Diane and Ms. Penny and we’ll create a different fun project every week. A little imagination is all you’ll need!

MINI CANVAS PAINTING

WEDNESDAY | JUNE 26 | 6-7 P.M. | ALL AGES

Want something fun to do before heading to Music in the Park? Join us for a night of painting and decorate a mini canvas however you want! Please wear something you won’t mind getting dirty.

BE GREEN WHEN YOU GARDEN

THURSDAY | JUNE 13 | 7-8 P.M. | ALL AGES

Gardeners are the original green people, but when was the last time you evaluated your gardening practices to see how green (environmentally friendly) you really are? Learn simple ways to garden while conserving water and using fewer chemicals. We’ll look at environmentally friendly gardening practices, including proper plant selection, water conservation and composting. This presentation is given by horticulturist Sharon Yiesla, owner of Sharon Yiesla, Horticultural Services.

BACKYARD CHICKENS

TUESDAY | JUNE 4 | 7-8 P.M. | ALL AGES

Did you know that Bensenville allows residents to raise chickens in their backyards? Stop by the library and learn how to get your permit, what the requirements are, how to care for your hens, and meet one of Bensenville’s own poultry residents!

BOARD GAME SOCIAL CLUB

THURSDAYS | JUNE 6 AND JUNE 20 | 6-8:30 P.M. | FOR ADULTS AND TEENS

BOOK & PLANT SALE

SATURDAY | MAY 11 | 9AM-1PM

Calling all book and plant lovers! The library is holding its annual book and plant sale. Browse through hundreds of books, movies, CD’s, plants, and much more at reasonable prices!

Join us Thursday evenings for quality adult time playing cards and board games. Bring a friend and a game to share if you can!

GROW NATIVES RIGHT!

THURSDAY | JUNE 6 | 7-8:30 P.M. | FOR ADULTS AND TEENS

You started with a coneflower or milkweed and now you are hooked on native plants, but there is some basic knowledge that will help you do it right. Join Horticulturist Educator Sharon Yiesla to discuss some basics concepts about native plants, as well as some misconceptions. We will also discuss the pollinators that benefit from our native gardens.

CAPSAICIN CULT HOT SAUCE

TUESDAY | JUNE 11 | 6:00-8:00 P.M. | FOR ADULTS

Kristen Lovett, owner of Capsaicin Cult, will show us how to prepare and bottle her famous hot sauce just in time for Father’s Day! At the end, attendees can take a bottle to enjoy at home!

ART FOR RELAXATION: A COLORING PROGRAM

WEDNESDAY | JUNE 12 | 7-8 P.M. | ADULTS ONLY

Using a selection of printed, seasonal subjects, participants are welcome to bring their own creativity and art pens or use the pencils/markers/crayons supplied for this art and music-enhanced relaxing session. Register at benlib.org/calendar.

FENTON COMMUNITY

HIGH SCHOOL | District 100

1000 West Green Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

630 766 2500

www.fenton100.org

Mission Statement

Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.

Board of Education

Cary Lewis | President

Juliet Rago | Vice President

Leonel Figueroa | Secretary

Reid Goodrich

Sylvia Hayde

John Radzinski

Kent Kovak

Administration

Sam Bentsen

Interim Superintendent/Principal

Jose Jaramillo | Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Operations

Bruce Martin | Chief School Business Officer

Jim Batson | Director of Technology

Rick Kambic | Director of Communications and Community Engagement

Michelle Papanicolaou | Director of Postsecondary Pathways/Division Leader

Kate Ward

Director of Learning/Division Leader

Pedro Rodriguez

Director of Athletics/Division Leader

Eric Koranda

Assistant Principal/Division Leader

Julia Bray | Assistant Principal/Division Leader

Lorenzo Rubio | Division Leader

Pedro Castro | Dean of Students

Jason Madl | Dean of Students

Thomas Kobel | Director of Building, Grounds and Transportation

FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

Dear Fenton School Community,

I am Dr. Sam Bentsen, Fenton’s Interim Superintendent. Many of you already know me from our many community events and student celebrations over the years.

The Board of Education voted unanimously in March to appoint me as District 100’s Interim Superintendent. I look forward to earning your trust in this new role and partnering with you on our joint mission of educating our future leaders. I will also continue as Associate Superintendent/Principal.

I started serving at Fenton in July 2018. Prior to that I served multiple roles at nearby DuPage High School District 88, where I oversaw Special Education programming, Disciplinary practices, Guidance programming, and Safety and Security.

Working together we can achieve all our goals, generate new ideas, and inspire our children each and every day. Fenton is a great place to be with great traditions thanks to our dedicated teachers, students, parents, and community partners.

As we head into May, our Fenton Class of 2024 is in the homestretch of their high school careers and we have a lot of hard-working students to celebrate.

HERE’S A RUNDOWN OF ALL THE EXCITING EVENTS:

MAY 1 | Decision Day, with celebrations during all lunch periods

MAY 10 | Movie Night and BBQ, 7 pm in the Fieldhouse

MAY 16 | Graduation Practice, 8:30 to 10:30 am in the Fieldhouse

MAY 16 | Senior Brunch, 11 am to 1 pm at White Pines Golf Club

MAY 16 | Senior Awards, 6:30 pm in the Fieldhouse

MAY 17 | Prom

MAY 19 | Graduation, 12 pm in the Fieldhouse

Fenton’s Commencement Ceremony is Sunday, May 19 at noon. All seniors get four tickets, with overflow seating in our auditorium to watch the livestream. If you live or work in our community, please give a friendly shout out to any Bison graduates you know.

SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Interim Superintendent | Associate Superintendent/Principal

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

Fenton’s $10 million water mitigation project is nearly complete, with new artificial turf and a new modern track surface in the stadium in their final stages of installation. Students will be able to use the new playing surfaces this summer. Fenton plans to begin construction of our new two-story STEM wing in May, shortly after school is dismissed for the summer.

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This new addition will feature a variety of modern classrooms and learning spaces in these subject areas. It will be attached to the back of our auditorium and face toward Route 83. We anticipate a 15-month construction timeline.

All classes will operate as normal next school year. The most disruptive construction will take place this summer and next summer, when a majority of students and staff are not present.

This $32 million STEM project is being paid for by nonreferendum construction bonds that do not raise taxes.

FENTON COMMUNITY

HIGH SCHOOL | District 100

1000 West Green Street

Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 2500

www.fenton100.org

Mission Statement

Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.

Fenton Students Discover Potential Careers at Northwestern Medicine

Six outstanding Fenton students were accepted into and participated in the Northwestern Medicine GM Grosvenor Discovery Program, which is highly competitive and acceptance is based on applications. These students include:

• PAULINA KRAJEWSKI

• GISELLE GARCIA

• ADAMARY GOMEZ

• LAYLAH ORTIZ

• NATALIE RAMIREZ

• MARIAM RIHAN

These students spent one Saturday per month since November visiting different medical settings throughout Illinois and participating in hands-on experiences that focus on fields such as oncology, proton therapy, wellness, rehabilitation, nursing, and others.

This year’s program included a variety of sessions across Kishwaukee, Delnor and Central DuPage Hospitals, such as:

• NM Stop the Bleed Training with the Emergency Medicine team at Delnor Hospital

• Discovering the Anatomy Lab and medical student panel

• Discovering Oncology at Kishwaukee Hospital

• Discovering Proton Therapy and the Living Well Cancer Resource Center in Warrenville

• Discovering Pathology Clinical Lab, The Leishman Center for Culinary Health, and a conversation with Dr. Mathen, Family Medicine D.O.

• Discovering Rehabilitation Services at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital

• Discovering Nursing at CDH

The Discovery Program is designed for students interested in health care and who may have limited access to opportunities to explore related careers.

Fenton also maintains numerous other partnerships in support of our Career Pathways programming, such as career treks (AKA field trips), guest speakers, our annual career fair, and full-blown semester-long internships.

If you or your business are interested in sharing your wisdom, hosting a class for a day, or are able to take an intern for a few hours every day, please contact Michelle Papanicolaou (papanicolaou@fenton100.org) –Fenton’s Director of Post Secondary Pathways and Division Leader for Career and Technical Education (CTE).

2 BISON BALLERS EARN ALL-STATE HONORS

Congratulations to the Bison Boys Basketball Team on an exciting and magical 28-5 season, filled will personal scoring records and an Upstate Eight Conference title. Fenton even advanced to the Regional Championship and took Niles Notre Dame to overtime!

This is the first time a Fenton athletic team has won the Upstate Eight Conference since the Bison joined in 2019. Fenton was 17-1 against conference opponents this year.

Following the 2024 season, two Fenton Bison were recognized by the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA).

Senior Alejandro Diaz was named to the 2024 IBCA 3rd Team All State, which means he’s among the top 50 high school basketball players in Illinois. Alejandro finished this season averaging 16.4 points per game, 3.1 steals per game, 3.6 assists per game, 5.9 rebounds per game, a 52% overall field goal shooting percentage, and he made 39% from behind the 3-point arc.

Alejandro is also Fenton High School’s new All-Time Leading Scorer with 1,258 points – the previous record was set in 2020. He also is Fenton’s record holder for career steals (263), career blocks (90), and career assists (336). On June 8th, Alejandro will play in the IBCA All-State game. He has committed to playing basketball with North Central College next year.

BISON BOWLER ADVANCES TO STATE

Congratulations to Izabel Krajecki for advancing to the IHSA State Finals for Girls Bowling! She averaged 193 pins per game in a highly competitive Sectional tournament.

Senior Xavior Gonzalez was an IBCA All-State Special Mention. Xavior finished this season with 17.9 points per game, 3.0 steals per game, 3.2 assists per game, a 47% overall field goal shooting percentage, and he made 28% from behind the 3-point arc. Xavior finishes his Fenton career with 1,129 points (any scoring total over 1,000 points is rare), as well as 205 assists and 166 steals.

Both Alejandro and Xavior were named to the Upstate Eight All Conference Team, along with teammate Brandon Block. Alejandro was named Upstate Eight Player of the Year.

For his leadership in this historic season, Fenton Coach Chaz Taft was named the IBCA District 7 Co-Coach of the Year.

Congratulations to our entire boys basketball program!

SPEECH TEAM STUDENTS TAKE 2ND PLACE AT STATE

Congratulations to Speech Team members Alexa Calderon and Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta for advancing to the IHSA State Finals and taking 2nd place in their respective events!

Alexa was the Sectional Champion for Informative Speaking AND Prose Reading. She then took 2nd in State for Informative Speaking. Sarah was the Sectional Champion in Original Oratory and later took 2nd in State

BENSENVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

210 South Church Road

Bensenville | Illinois 60106

bsd2.org | 630 766 5940

Board of Education

Bob Laudadio | President

Marisol Leyva | Vice President

Jacqueline Dye | Secretary

Lori Parthimos | Treasurer

Victoria Gonzalez

Anita Miller

James Stoltman

Administration

Dr. Katie McCluskey

Superintendent of Schools

Paul Novack | Chief Financial Officer

Dr. Anne Paonessa | Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning

Dustin Berman | Assistant Superintendent for Student Services

Edgar Palacios | Director of Multilingual Programs and English Learners

Tammy Hoeflinger Director of Human Resources

DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS

Blackhawk Middle School 630 766 2601

Dr. Perry Finch | Principal

Concetta Gaspar | Assistant Principal for Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

Jamie Hogue | Assistant Principal for Social-Emotional Learning

Tioga School | 630 766 2602

Jeffrey Kersten | Principal

Amber Soike | Assistant Principal

Christy Poli | Pre-Kindergarten & Birth-to-3 Coordinator

W.A. Johnson School | 630 766 2605

Carlos Patiño | Principal

Saul Melendez | Assistant Principal

SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

#THANKATEACHER

May 6-10 is National Teacher

Appreciation Week.

Thank you to our extraordinary teachers and staff who have worked tirelessly with our students and families to make this another successful year of learning and growing together.

• Thank you teachers and instructional assistants for the lasting contributions you made to your students’ future.

• Thank you principals and administrators for your leadership and commitment to promoting and improving teaching and learning.

• Thank you office staff for your work on the frontlines, serving as the hubs of information and communication.

• Thank you school nurses for being that vital link between education and the health of our students and families.

• Thank you psychologists and social workers for your focus on our students’ social and emotional needs.

• Thank you bus drivers for safely transporting our students to and from school.

• Thank you food service staff for providing nutritious and delicious meals for our students.

• Thank you custodians and maintenance workers for providing safe and clean environments for teaching and learning.

• Thank you tech staff for equipping our students, teachers and staff with the tools they need to succeed.

Thank you EVERYONE for providing your specialized expertise to the District. Each of you plays a vitally important role in the fulfillment of our mission to Ignite a lifelong desire to learn and succeed in an ever-changing world. May each of you have a fulfilling and refreshing summer—one that prepares you for another exciting school year in 2024-2025.

WELCOME SENATOR DUCKWORTH

Legislator tours Head Start program and asks how federal government can provide better support

On February 15, U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth toured the Head Start program at the Bensenville Early Learning Center at Tioga School. During the tour, Dr. Katie McCluskey, BSD2 Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Kersten, Tioga School Principal, and Christy Poli, BSD2 Birth-3 and Pre-Kindergarten Coordinator, participated in a panel discussion with local parents and educational leaders about ways the federal government can provide better support for Head Start programs around the country.

The Head Start program at the Bensenville Early Learning Center operates under a unique and incredibly successful community partnership between District 2 and Metropolitan Family Services. Throughout the discussion, Head Start parents and staff and leaders from Metropolitan praised the Bensenville program, sharing with Sen. Duckworth how it helps families disrupt the impact of intergenerational poverty and unlock doors to opportunity for families.

GROUNDBREAKING

Beginning a new chapter in the history of Blackhawk Middle School District 2 Board of Education members and administrators gathered March 21 with representatives from the Village of Bensenville, STR Partners (the District’s architects), and D-R Rosemont (the District’s construction managers) for a brief groundbreaking ceremony for the Blackhawk Middle School renovation project.

The brief ceremony marked the beginning of this project that will transform much of Blackhawk’s look, feel, and function, and will be completed in time to welcome BMS students and staff when the 2024-2025 school year begins in August.

In the fall, the entire BSD2 community will be invited to celebrate the project’s completion, and to see these key improvements that will provide BMS students with a state-of-the-art school that aligns with the evolving needs of education:

• All new student-tested and staff-approved classroom furniture that can be easily moved and flexibly arranged to readily allow for collaborative learning.

• Installation of new flooring, lighting, and whiteboards in classrooms, and wall-to-wall painting that will bring a brighter, more modern, consistent and cohesive look and feel throughout the building.

• Upgrades to classroom technology to create a wireless environment for both students and teachers.

• Enlargement of 12 classrooms by removing six workrooms currently connected to neighboring spaces.

• Additions of four new classrooms, and conversions of three existing classrooms into as many as nine flexibly divided small-group spaces. These flex spaces can be used for collaborative learning, interventions, and meetings, or as staff workspaces.

• Addition of a new fitness center adjacent to the gym, and conversion of the current fitness center space into a dedicated special education classroom with a sensory room and restroom.

• Remodeling of outdated science rooms, expansion of the health office, and renovation of the school’s two outdoor learning courtyards.

FUTURE CHEFS

Six District 2 elementary students show off their culinary skills in Sodexo’s first cooking challenge

Congratulations to Johnson fifth grader Isabella Flores! Isabella won first place in District 2’s first ever Future Chef National Challenge sponsored by Sodexo, the District’s food services provider.

bon appétit!

Six students competed for the title the morning of Saturday, March 2, during a live cook-off in the kitchen and cafeteria at Blackhawk Middle School. Assisted by Sodexo staff, each student prepared their favorite recipe from home and submitted it for critique by three celebrity judges: Village President Frank DeSimone and Chef David Kramer and Chef Michael Camerano, both instructors in the College of DuPage Culinary Arts Program.

The students’ delicious creations included arroz con leche, strawberry crema, elotes Mexicanos, taffy apple salad, and carne asada tacos. However, Isabella’s lemon-ricotta pancakes ranked highest with the judges, and earned her the competition’s grand-prize package, a variety of cookware she can use to continue pursuing her passion for the culinary arts at home.

CLASS OF 2024

Save the date for Blackhawk’s eighth grade promotion

Blackhawk Middle School will hold its eighth-grade promotion ceremony on Tuesday, May 28, in the field house at Fenton High School, 1000 W. Green Street, Bensenville.

Families of students participating in the promotion ceremony receive a total of six tickets. Students should arrive at 6:30 pm. The ceremony starts at 7 pm.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Spring parent presentations shined spotlight on District’s top priority

In April, District 2 presented two important parent information addressing the District’s top priority: the safety and security of its students.

The first session, held April 23 at Blackhawk Middle School, focused on cyberbullying and social media misuse. In today’s digital age, it is imperative for parents to be equipped with knowledge and tools to help their children safely navigate the complexities of online interactions. Presenter Dr. Sameer Hinduja, who is recognized internationally for his groundbreaking work on cyberbullying and safe social media use, offered practical ways for parents to identify, prevent, and respond to these issues and promote safe and responsible participation in cyberspace.

For the second session, held April 30 at Blackhawk, we partnered with our colleagues at the Bensenville Police Department to detail the important school safety initiatives we’ve implemented the past two years. Those include the completion of a District-wide safety audit, the implementation of standard response protocols for emergency situations, and the training of staff and students in ALICE principles that provide them the option to run, hide or fight when reacting to a threat. Student safety is our top priority, and these steps we’ve taken to strengthen school safety will help our schools maintain secure learning environments where students feel protected and empowered to thrive.

NUTRISLICE

Sodexo’s new menu app provides parents with easy access to key information about students’ meals

Sodexo – District 2’s Food Services provider – has transitioned to a new online menu platform, Nutrislice.

In addition to providing parents convenient access to their schools’ daily meal menus on their phone, the Nutrislice app also helps them plan for dietary and allergy restrictions.

Through the app, parents can review key information for any meal item, including photos, descriptions, ingredients, carb counts, allergens, and special dietary information. They can also subscribe to receive notifications about menu item substitutions.

WANT MORE BSD2 NEWS?

Follow us on Facebook at Bensenville School District 2

Follow us on Twitter @BensenvilleD2.

Visit bsd2.org | About Us | News, Notifications & Social Media.

The Nutrislice app is translated into more than 50 languages, and families can download the Nutrislice app for Apple or Android.

SUMMER NUTRITION

Get free breakfasts at Tioga

Bensenville School District 2 will serve FREE breakfast to anyone 18 years and younger throughout the month of June.

LOCATION

Tioga School, 212 W. Memorial Road

DATES

Monday–Thursday, June 5–27

(Breakfast will not be served on Wednesday, June 19.)

TIME 8:05–8:25 am

Meals must be consumed on site.

may 2024

bensenville

thursday friday saturday

BPD TaylorMade Fitting Day, 2-6 pm, White Pines Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Green St Grille BSD2 Developmental Screenings (By Appointment/No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance) BSD2 Birth-to-3 Program Parent Engagement Storytime, 9:30-10:30am, BCPL

Garned Club of Bensenville 75th Anniversary Luncheon, 11:30am, White Pines FHS AP Art Show, 7pm BSD2 Developmental Screenings (By Appointment/No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance)

BCPL Book & Plant Sale, 9am-1pm BCPL Jump Start Your Genealogy, 2-4pm

wednesday

BPD Committee Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Tioga STEAM Night, 6-7:30pm, Tioga BSD2 BMS Chorus Concert, 6:30pm, Blackhawk

tuesday

monday

The Garden Club of Bensenville will celebrate its 75th Anniversary Luncheon on May 2 at White Pines Golf Course. Doors open at 11:30 am; lunch at 12:00 pm. Enjoy floral demonstrations and raffle prizes. Contact Jaci at 630.860.1499 for tickets ($25 per person).

BCPL Versiti Blood Drive, 12:30-5pm BCPL Headed to College, 3:30pm BCPL Mother’s Day Card Making Party, 6:30pm FHS Spring Band Concert, 7pm Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, BCPL FHS Thespian Induction Ceremony and Drama Senior Night BSD2 Band Festival, Grades 5-8, 6:30pm, Blackhawk BSD2 Jaguar Jamboree, 5-7pm, Johnson

BCPL Japonisme, 7-8pm BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Special Services Parent Group, 5:30-7pm, Tioga BSD2 Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, EAC FHS Senior Awards Night, 6:30pm FHS Prom, 6:30pm BPD Drive in Movie: Space Jam , Dusk, White Pines

sunday

BCPL Twelve-o-Five Comics Club @ BCPL, 5:30pm FHS Spring Choir Concert, 7pm BPD Fitness de Mayo, Wood St. Fitness, DGLC

BPD

Callaway Fitting Day, 10 am-2pm, White Pines CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

BCPL DIY Sun Print, 6:30pm Bike Safety Workshop, 6pm, The Oak Room, DGLC

12 BPD Mother’s Day Brunch, 11am-12:30pm, White Pines FHS Music Department Awards Night, 7pm Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

BCPL Intro to Mindful Eating, 7-8pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm FHS Final Exams Day 1 FHS Final Exams Day 2 FHS Final Exams Day 3 BSD2 Memorial Day (BSD2 Schools and Offices Closed) BSD2 BMS Band performs in Memorial Day Parade Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BSD2 BMS Eighth Grade Promotion, 7pm, Fenton High School BSD2 Last Day of School for the 2023 2024 School Year BSD2 End of Third Trimester

BCPL Twelve-o-Five Comics Club @ BCPL, 5:30pm FHS Graduation, 12pm BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 5pm, White Pines Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

bensenville june 2024

sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

THE POOL IS OPEN!

PURCHASE YOUR SEASON PASS AT

BPD Movie in the Park: Trolls Band Together , Dusk, Arbor Park

BCPL Grow Natives Right!, 7pm BSD2 Third Trimester Report Cards mailed to students’ homes BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6pm Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Senior & Community Center

BPD Committee Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC Music In The Park, Hi Infidelity, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BSD2 Summer School, 8-11:30am, Monday-Thursday through June 27, Tioga

BCPL Backyard Chickens, 7-8pm CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

FHS Summer School Begins

Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer

BPD Fitness Dayz Outdoor Zumba, 9-10am, Sunset Park BPD Car Show & Sock Hop, 3-7pm, Pavilion at White Pines

BCPL Be Green When You Garden, 7-8pm Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, BCPL

BCPL Art for Relaxation, 7-8pm Music In The Park, R Gang, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BSD2 Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, EAC

BCPL Capsaicin Cult Hot Sauce, 6-8pm BPD TaylorMade Fitting Day, 2-6pm, White Pines

BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am

BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am

BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 5pm, White Pines Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall Music In The Park, American English, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BSD2 Juneteenth National Freedom Day (BSD2 Schools and Offices Closed) BSD2 Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, EAC BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6pm

BPD Sip N Paint, 3-5pm, White Pines 37 Bar & Grill

BCPL Mini Canvas Painting, 6-7pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC Music In The Park, Heart to Heartbreaker, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville

BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am