Community Newsletter September/October 2023

a

lifelong learning community |

VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE

VILLAGE TRUSTEES SWORN IN AT JUNE VILLAGE BOARD MEETING

Congratulations to Village Trustees Marie T. Frey, Nicholas Panicola, Jr., and Rosa M. Carmona who were all sworn in at the June 13, 2023 Village Board Meeting. They will all serve a four-year term after being re-elected in the April consolidated election.

Hispanic Heritage Month CELEBRATION

Brought to you by Fenton High School and the Bensenville Park District.

The Bensenville Park District will commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month with celebration that includes a Kermes in partnership with Fenton High School at White Pines Golf Club from 11 am to 3:30 pm, Saturday, October 7, combining a cultural experience with a charitable opportunity for the community.

The Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at White Pines Golf Club’s tented pavilion, 500 E. Jefferson St. in Bensenville, promises a celebration immersed in Latino culture. The event will include authentic Mexican food, music and dancing. Proceeds from the Kermes will directly benefit Fenton High School students.

For more information, visit the park district website, BvilleParks.org, or the Fenton High School District’s website, Fenton100.org.

2024 vehicle stickers will be available for purchase from mid-October through January 1st! All vehicles registered or housed in the Village of Bensenville must purchase and display a vehicle sticker. Buy online and save $2.00 for a regular passenger sticker. Vehicle stickers must be purchased by January 1, 2024. New residents and those who have purchased new vehicles do not need to pay a penalty as long as the sticker is purchased within 30 days of the move-in date or the date of the new vehicle purchase. Senior Sticker: Seniors (65 years or older at time of purchase) can purchase up to two (2) vehicle stickers per household at the senior rate of $1.00. Each vehicle must be registered to a senior in order to receive the discounted rate. The senior sticker is valid for two years. YOU CAN PURCHASE YOUR VEHICLE STICKER THREE WAYS:

1) Online bensenville.il.us. 2) In-person at the Village Hall 3) Via US Mail AND… Don’t forget, all dogs in the Village need to be licensed annually for a fee of $3 each. For more information, call 630.766.8200.

LEARN TO SKATE PROGRAM –SIGN UP FOR OUR FALL SESSIONS!

The Edge Ice Arena offers learn-to-skate classes for all ages and abilities from 3 years old to adult. Fall sessions of Learn to Skate begin September 6 and October 11. Class details and registration information can be found on the Village website (bensenville.il.us) or call 630.766-8888.

Village of Bensenville

12 South Center Street

Bensenville, Illinois 60106

www.bensenville.il.us

630.766.8200

President Frank DeSimone

Trustees

Rosa Carmona

Ann Franz

Marie T. Frey

McLane Mac Lomax

Nicholas Panicola Jr.

Armando Perez

Village Clerk

Nancy Quinn

Village Manager

Evan K. Summers

Flag Retirement Box Located At Village Hall

Did you know there’s a flag retirement box located inside Village Hall? If you are wondering what to do with old or damaged flags, you can find a flag retirement box to the left of the main entrance at Village Hall. Once full, local Boy Scouts will properly dispose of flags in accordance with the US Flag Code. This box is accessible during regular hours of operation.

bensenville.il.us

surface. Blocking of sidewalks by vehicles is prohibited.

YARD WASTE AND LEAVES MUST BE PLACED IN THE CORRECT BAGS OR BIN

Yard waste is collected by Republic Services from April through November and must be set out in either a biodegradable paper bag or a garbage can. As a reminder, do not use plastic bags to dispose of yard waste. If a garbage can is used, please clearly label it for yard waste and place the can so that the driver can see the marking from the street. Yard waste stickers are available at Village Hall for you to attached to your can.

Residents are reminded that it is against Village ordinances to rake leaves into the street.

REMAINING 2023 BRUSH PICK-UP DATES

As you begin your fall cleanup, keep in mind that the Village’s final two brush pick-up dates for 2023 are September 5, October 2 and November 6. Please remember to have brush and branches out at the curb by 7:00 AM and not to bundle piles with rope or wire. For additional details on brush and branch removal, please visit the Village website.

HELPFUL REMINDERS FOR RECYCLING

When it comes to recycling, everyone has a role to play. Make sure your recycling container only contains cardboard, paper, metal cans, and approved plastic containers. Keep recyclables free from food and liquid – just a single ketchup bottle can contaminate an entire truckload of recyclables. To prevent plastic bags from causing issues in recycling machines, empty your recyclables directly into your outdoor bin, avoiding the use of bags.

or phone number, and a picture if possible. Submitted properties will be showcased on the Village’s Facebook page. Judging will be conducted by the Holiday Decorating Committee and awards will be given to the best decorated single-family homes. Winners will be announced at the October 24th Village Board Meeting and will also be featured on the Village’s website at bensenville.il.us.

NOMINATION PERIOD | Now through October 19th. Entries must be received via email by 5 pm on October 19th.

TRICK OR TREATING | OCTOBER 31

With Halloween right around the corner, it will soon be time to put together your most creative costumes and head out for trick-or-treating in the Village of Bensenville. Tick-or-treating hours are 3 – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, October 31. For your convenience, trick-or-treating participation signs will be included in the October utility bill mailing and available on the Village website.

It is recommended children go only to homes they are familiar with and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome. As a friendly reminder, children should be cautioned of the dangers of running out from between parked cars, across yards, and reminded to look both ways before crossing the street. Have a fun and safe Halloween!

PUMPKIN SMASH RECYCLING EVENT | NOVEMBER 4

In partnership with SCARCE, the Bensenville Public Works Department will host a pumpkin smash recycling event on Saturday, November 4th from 9 am – Noon. This one-day event is a great opportunity to properly dispose of your Halloween pumpkins while having a little family fun. During the event, you will have the option to either chuck or smash your pumpkin into a dumpster. Smash events like this help keep pumpkins out of landfills and reduce the amount of harmful greenhouse gasses being released into the environment.

BENSENVILLE VILLAGE HALL PARKING LOT | 12 S. Center Street | 9 am – Noon

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

Sunday, September 3 | Labor Day

Monday, September 4 | Labor Day

BENSENVILLE COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Write Your Own Book

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Have you ever wanted to write and illustrate your own book? Well come on down to the library! Blank books will be provided, but supplies are limited. Teens and adults welcome.

Digging for Apples

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Fall is right around the corner and what a better way to celebrate than to make some apple-themed crafts! Afterwards take home an apple treat!

Mini Canvas Painting

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Join us for a night of painting! Take a mini canvas and decorate it however you want. Please be sure to wear something that you will not mind getting dirty. All materials will be provided.

Make Your Own Monster

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Make your own monster puppet using discarded socks, buttons, and yarn plus a little creativity and love.

¡Lotería!

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 | 6:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Join us to play Mexican Bingo and win Prizes! In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month we will be trying our hand at playing Lotería, a Mexican game of chance similar to bingo. Learn about the history of the game and its place in Mexican culture. There will be prizes!

Family Pumpkin Painting Party

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Explore your creative side with this fun pumpkin painting program. Pay homage to your favorite literary character or paint a silly or spooky pumpkin to take home. Supplies are limited, one pumpkin per family

Halloween Boo-Tacular

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27 FROM 6:30-8 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Families are invited to celebrate Halloween with the Library with an evening of play, crafts, and games, and don’t forget to wear your Halloween costumes for indoor Trick-or-Treating! All children must be accompanied by an adult and all adults must be accompanied by a child.

Cards & Games Social Club

WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 6, 13, 20, 27 AND OCTOBER 4, 11, 18, 25

1-2:30 PM | AGES 18+ | DROP-IN

Join us on Wednesday afternoons for quality adult time with the latest cards and board games of 2023 - bring yourself and a friend if possible!

The Needle Guild

TUESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 5, 19 AND OCTOBER 3, 17 | 6-7:30 PM

AGES 18+ | DROP-IN

Calling all knitting, crochet, and embroidery enthusiasts! Are you eager to expand your skills and meet fellow crafters? Look no further than The Needle Guild, your ultimate creative hub. Join us every 1st and 3rd Tuesday and make use of our 2 sewing machines for your crafting needs.

Tenango Embroidery

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 | 2-3 PM | AGES 18+ | REGISTER

Embroidery has always been an important part in every culture, making them unique to the place where they come from. Tenango Embroidery is recognized all around the world for its colorful animal designs. Learn how to embroider Tenango style with us! Register at benlib.evanced.info/signup.

Dreams

SEPTEMBER 1 THRU SEPTEMBER 8 | ALL AGES | DROP-IN | AT THE LIBRARY

What is your most cherished wish? Inspired by Chilean photographer Martín Weber’s photography book Mapa de sueños latino americanos (Map of Latin American Dreams) we will present some of his powerful photographs and invite you to come and write your own dream on our display. With your permission, we will add your picture and written wish to our display to show that in our community, we still dream. Please ask the front desk for the camera.

Trivia Night @ Green St. Grille

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 AND MONDAY, OCTOBER 2 | 7-9 PM | ALL AGES

DROP-IN (RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED) | GREEN ST. GRILLE

Join staff from the Bensenville Library on the first Monday of every month from 7-9 pm and flex your trivia muscle at the Green St. Grille! Gather your friends and family to compete against other teams for prizes by answering questions about history, pop culture, and more! Registration is not required, but reservations at the Green St. Grille are recommended. Please call 630.474.1202 to reserve a table.

Basics of Wills and Trusts

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26 | 7-8:15 PM | AGES 18+ | DROP-IN

Discover the key elements of an estate plan - Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney - in a discussion led by Attorney Lisa Knauf. Plan ahead to safeguard your wishes, save your family time and money, and minimize potential disputes by avoiding costly court proceedings like probate.

Open House Chicago

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15

8 AM – 5:45 PM | REGISTER

DOWNTOWN CHICAGO

The Chicago Architecture Center is hosting its yearly Open House Chicago Event and the Bensenville Library is partnering with the Wood Dale Library to give you a chance to experience this unique opportunity. Spend the day traveling with a group into the city. You will visit several iconic buildings in The Loop with a stop for lunch (at your own expense).

Meet at the Wood Dale Metra Station on Saturday, October 15th at 8:00 am and return around 5:45 pm. Roundtrip transportation provided. For more information please contact the library. Visit openhousechicago.org for more information about the event. Registration is required at benlib.org/calendar by October 7th.

Medicare 101

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12 | 7-8:15 PM | AGES 18+ | DROP-IN

Medicare can be challenging and confusing! Join Tom Perrucci for a seminar on Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, Part D Prescription Coverage, and cost saving strategies when you first enroll and every year after that.

Detox Your Mind Through Meditation

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 6:30-7:30 PM | AGES 18+ | VIRTUAL

Join Umesh Bhatia, an experienced meditator, to learn a simple and transformative meditation technique that can help cleanse and calm the mind, leading to positive changes in life. Registration is required at benlib.org/calendar by October 3rd.

Not a Book Club – Film Talk

Share your perspectives with fellow movie enthusiasts in vibrant discussions about these hand-picked titles every month. DVDs and Blu-Rays will be available for pick-up at the Circulation Desk one month before the discussion.

JOHN WICK | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 | 7-8:30 PM

After retiring, legendary assassin John Wick is driven back into the violent underworld when his wife dies and he seeks vengeance against the mobster who stole his car, killed his puppy, and now has a bounty on his head.

THE MENU | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18 | 7-8:30 PM

In this dark comedy, a young couple ventures to an exclusive island restaurant for an extravagant meal prepared by a renowned chef, only to find themselves confronted with unexpected and startling surprises.

Latino Film Festival

Join us for family-friendly movie nights, featuring strong Latino-lead actors.

MCFARLAND USA | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 | 6:30-8 PM | ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Based on a true story, the coach of a Latino High School, discovers that his students are great runners. He forms a cross-country team and takes them to their first championship.

A WALK IN THE CLOUDS | TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24 | 6:30-8 PM ALL AGES | DROP-IN

Returning from World War II, soldier Paul Sutton embarks on an unexpected adventure, posing as traveler Victoria Aragon’s husband and navigating tensions within her close-knit Mexican-American family, leading to surprising outcomes.

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

James Ongtengco | Superintendent

Sam Bentsen | 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

Mike Berago

Director of Equity/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 Families,

Welcome to the 2023-2024 School Year! We had a busy summer and are excited to have the sights and sounds of happy students in our hallways once again. As we get back in the full swing of a school year, I have several related topics listed below for our Fenton Families and neighbors to keep in mind.

Three Years of Construction

As you have likely already seen, construction on our flood mitigation project is underway. This project aims to alleviate stormwater accumulation around our building. A new underground water storage tank is being installed next to the stadium, with new drainage piping being placed underground in various locations.

All academic and extracurricular programs will continue. Some activities are relocated, but nothing is being canceled. We need to obey the construction boundaries. Our website contains a map detailing the work zones that students, staff, and community members need to avoid. In simplest terms, the back parking lot and all fields behind Fenton High School will be off limits. Pedestrian foot traffic from the Route 83 bridge will also be blocked. Students who walk to school may try to find shortcuts to avoid these construction detours. We strongly encourage students to stay on sidewalks and to NOT cross the railroad tracks or cut through residential backyards. Although we don’t know the exact boundaries just yet, we will have similar restricted areas for a few more years. Once the water mitigation project is complete (estimated at March 2024), we will begin construction on a new STEM wing behind our auditorium. Doing these projects back-to-back provides a cost savings in several ways.

Traffic Safety

We should also exercise caution at the front of our building during morning drop off and afternoon pick up. Thousands of students, staff, and parents are moving through the area in the same short amount of time.

Please obey the 20 mile per hour school zone speed limit, the many pedestrian crosswalks, the prohibited use of cell phones while driving in a school zone, and the staff who are directing traffic. Remember, pedestrians always have the right of way.

We all have busy lives and overlapping priorities, but the safety of our children is of the utmost importance.

Free or Reduced Price Meals

Food is important to learning, and we want all of our students to focus on their classes without hunger getting in the way. Everyone has to apply for free or reduced price meals every year.

Families can fill out the Free or Reduced Price Meals application online by visiting fenton100. org or by completing a print application at our school. Eligibility in the program also provides students with indirect benefits through other fee reductions or waivers, as well as Fenton receiving additional federal funding.

Call 630.860.6258 if you have any questions about the Free or Reduced Price Meals program.

Go BISON!

JAMES ONGTENGCO | Superintendent

Mission Statement

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

FENTON CREATES A CHARITABLE FOUNDATION New Memorial Scholarship Honors Alum Lost in Vietnam

Fenton High School incorporated a charitable foundation earlier this year as a way to create opportunities for alumni and local businesses to support Fenton students via tax-exempt donations. The foundation’s first initiative was to create the Patrick Robert Curran Memorial Scholarship.

Congratulations to Class of 2023 graduates Reagan Dakins, David Mathew, Mcaleigh Logue, Patrick Karbowski, Natalia Szala, and Berenice Garfias for being the inaugural recipients of the Patrick Robert Curran Memorial Scholarship. The monetary values range between $1,000 and $3,000 each.

The Patrick Robert Curran Memorial Scholarship was made possible thanks to generous donations from alumni Bill and Joyce Curran. Mr. Bill Curran graduated with the Fenton Class of 1956. Mrs. Joyce (Balansky) Curran graduated with the Fenton Class of 1960.

Bill Curran’s brother, Patrick, was missing in action during a recon flight in the Vietnam War. Patrick’s crash site was finally located in 1996 and excavated a few months later, but his body was not returned to the United States until 2002.

Patrick Curran was part of the Fenton Graduating Class of 1961. He served as student body vice president and participated in football, wrestling, track, volleyball, and theater. Each one of the graduating seniors possess skills, goals, or character traits that reflect the person Patrick Curran was or strived to one day become.

Superintendent Ongtengco, Mr. Kambic, and Mr. Martin hand delivered the award letters in May and explained the importance of carrying on Mr. Curran’s legacy.

You can start or continue a legacy too! Call Fenton High School and ask to be connected with the foundation. Donations large or small are accepted and can be applied to a variety of student needs.

THE 1 AND ONLY

THE FAST TRACK TO FAST PITCH ALL STATE

Congratulations to Fenton softball players Kayla Valadez (senior) for earning All State 3rd Team honors and Class of 2023 graduate Kaitlyn Hoffing for making All State 2nd Team honors during the 20222023 season. They were both congratulated by the Fenton Board of Education in July.

Class of 2023 graduate Kaitlyn Hoffing’s softball jersey #1 was retired at the end of the 2022-2023 season by Coach Dave Mello and his staff in honor of her outstanding career.

Kaitlyn broke the program’s record of 117 stolen bases, finishing the season with 121 career stolen bases. That total ranks 38th all-time in Illinois. But that’s not all. She also scored 55 runs this season, which is the second highest single season total in Fenton’s program history. For her career, she ranks third all-time at Fenton with 153 runs scored. Kaitlyn is also Fenton’s all-time career leader in batting average at .444, walks with 88, and on-base percentage at .598.

These were accomplished in just three years, as the IHSA cancelled all spring season sports during her freshman year (2020) due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Kaitlyn’s jersey #1 is now the third Fenton softball jersey number to be retired. She joins Sam Rubright (#12 retired in 2009) and Isa Lozada (#7 retired in 2019).

Thursday | October 12 | 7 pm • Friday | October 13 | 7 pm Saturday | October 14 | 1 pm & 7 pm

Fenton High School’s Theater Department and its 2023 State Champion Stage Crew present Leaving Iowa for its annual Fall Play this October.

Leaving Iowa is the story of a journalist who takes his family on a road trip through places from his childhood in an effort to find the perfect place to spread his father’s ashes. His loving memories of family road trips is told with numerous flashbacks amidst his own children’s lack of interest.

Senior Citizens are invited to a free seniors matinee show at 1 pm on October 14. Seats can be reserved by calling 630.860.8620. The senior matinee includes complementary coffee and cookies. As the show dates approach, please check the Fenton website (fenton100.org) for updates.

MUSICAL NOTES FOR YOUR CALENDAR

Fenton’s state renown musicians have a full schedule of public performances during the 20232024 school year. All are invited to attend and enjoy the artistic creativity on display.

October 16 | Bandarama Concert (7 pm)

October 22 | Fall Choir Concert (3 pm)

December 17 | Joint Holiday Concert (2 pm)

February 28 | Winter Choir Concert (7 pm)

March 7 | Winter Band Concert (7 pm)

March 10 | Spaghetti with a Song music department fundraiser (1 pm)

May 6 | Spring Choir Concert (7 pm)

May 8 | Spring Band Concert (7 pm)

From Mighty Bison to Fighting Irish

Congratulations to Class of 2023 graduate Anna Lelek for earning a prestigious QuestBridge Scholarship to attend her choice school the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. This four-year scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books, supplies, travel, and living expenses.

Anna plans on majoring in chemical engineering, focusing on the biomedical track. Her goal is to work in the cancer research field utilizing nanotechnology to find a cure.

The QuestBridge National College Match is an equity program that connects high-achieving high school seniors from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with full four-year scholarships to the nation’s top colleges. According to a Questbridge news release, the 1,755 recipients from the Class of 2023 combined for an average GPA of 3.94, and 94% of the students are in the top 10% of their graduating class.

BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT Fall into Fun!

KABOOM! IT

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

bvilleparks.org

The Bensenville Park District, in partnership with Discover® and KABOOM!, is constructing a new playground at Arbor Park, 475 E. Potter St. in Wood Dale, from 8 am to 4 pm, Thursday, September 14. Community volunteers are needed to help with the build, and no construction experience is necessary. Visit BvilleParks.org/kaboom to volunteer. All are welcome to the grand opening at 1 pm on Saturday, September 16.

HARVEST FEST

Harvest Fest at Fischer Farm returns from 11 am to 7 pm, Saturday, September 30! Admission to the event is FREE in 2023, thanks to Grand Subaru, and will feature food, fun and live music for the whole family! Many activities are free, but tickets will be required to participate in some activities and to purchase food and beverages. More information can be found at BvilleParks.org/harvestfest.

ALL ABOARD!

Explore the history of trains in Bensenville at the Bensenville Railroad Museum at Veterans Park one Saturday each month during the fall. Stop by the 1920s-era locomotive between noon and 4 pm and participate in a different craft or activity each day. The train museum open houses take place September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 16.

WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB | MORE THAN GOLF

White Pines Golf Club is beautiful in autumn! The course is operated by the Bensenville Park District and is open to the public. Book a tee time online at WhitePinesGolf.com. Fall rates are scheduled to take effect in late October or early November.

No matter what your age is or skill level, the professionals at White Pines are here to improve your golf game. Lessons are available for those of all ages and skill levels. Visit WhitePinesGolf.com/lessons for more information.

White Pines is more than just golf. Meet up at 37 Bar & Grill to watch your favorite football team beginning at 11:30 am each Sunday starting September 10. Play a round of golf in the morning before watching the games on the big-screen televisions and then enjoy half-price appetizers and drink specials throughout the day. Raffle prizes will be drawn following the noon game each week (at approximately 3 pm).

Now is the time to book your corporate events and holiday parties. You and your guests will enjoy magnificent views, exemplary service and delectable cuisine at the White Pines Golf Club banquet facility. The club offers a variety of packages, and menus and bar options may be customized to fit the needs of any group of up to 240 guests. Visit WhitePinesGolf.com for more information on these activities and other special events throughout the fall.

CLUBHOUSE

The Bensenville Park District offers a before- and after-school care program in addition to a days-offschool program for area residents as part of the park district’s Clubhouse program.

Full-time kindergarten through fifth grade students participate in a variety of structured and unstructured indoor and outdoor activities such as group games, sports, nature exploration, arts, crafts, table days and homework time as part of the Clubhouse before- and after-school programs. Registration is on a monthly basis, and District 2 bus transportation is provided to and from Johnson and Tioga schools.

Child care is offered from 7 am to 6 pm on school holidays, institute days and in-service days (children must arrive by 9 am) for Days Off School. Drop-off and pick-up takes place in the Maple Room at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Please bring a sack lunch and water bottle each day. A breakfast and afternoon snack will be provided. Visit BvilleParks.org/clubhouse for more information.

FISCHER FARM 4-H CLUB

Fischer Farm’s new Fischer 4-H Club is a dynamic community for ages 8-18, focusing on personal growth, leadership and diverse projects. From agriculture to technology, members engage in workshops, community service and events, fostering lifelong skills and friendships in an inclusive environment. There’s even the chance to buy a pig, sheep or goat to keep at the farm and show at the DuPage County Fair! Learn more at the Fischer 4-H Club Open House between 11 am and 1 pm, Saturday, September 9, at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville.

BE YOUR BEST SELF

Wood Street Fitness, located inside the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville, offers state-of-the-art free- and machine-weights and cardio equipment to provide all the best tools to be your best self. Fitness Center membership rates can be found online at WoodStFitness.com/membership. Special rates are available for couples, teens and seniors, and corporate memberships are available.

Personal training is also offered. A strong team of fitness professionals will work closely with you to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Additionally, the center is home to a growing number of group fitness classes for those of all ages and abilities, many of which are offered virtually. Wood St. Fitness currently offers more than 25 fitness classes per week. There is a class for everyone, from a slow-paced Chair Yoga to Zumba classes at different intensities and impact levels. The best way to access classes is by purchasing a Core Class Pass, which allows entry to nearly every group class. For information about the group fitness classes, visit WoodStFitness.com/classes or call 630.766.7015.

Elementary school children are encouraged to join the FREE 100 Miles Running Squad, where they run or walk after school on the DGLC track each Tuesday and collect several special charms until they achieve their final 100-mile goal at the end of the school year! Kids yoga (4-5 pm Mondays) and Zumba Kids (4:15 pm Fridays) classes are also popular and offered each month.

Those of all ages can sign up for Wood St. Fitness’ fun special events like Pumpkin Yoga September 30 at Fischer Farm and Halloween Zumba at the DGLC October 26!

MONSTER MASH

Get in the Halloween spirit early by taking a trip through the Halloween-themed activity walk around the Deer Grove Leisure Center from 11 am to 2 pm, Saturday, October 28. Kids of all ages will enjoy carnival games, inflatable bounce houses, live critters and much more at this free event presented by Grand Subaru! No registration is required. Call 630.766.7015 for more information.

VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST

The Bensenville Park District, Village of Bensenville and Fenton High School will join to salute those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces at the annual Veterans Day breakfast 9 a.m. Saturday, November 11, at the White Pines Golf Club banquet hall, 500 W. Jefferson St., Bensenville. United States armed forces veterans and their families are invited to dine for free at the breakfast. Highlights include a guest speaker as well as presentations by Fenton High School Defending Freedom Essay Contest winners. Pre-registration is required. Call 630.766.7015.

PROGRAM REGISTRATION

The Bensenville Park District’s Fall Program registration is well underway and includes many holiday events. Register for programs and activities at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

BVILLE FLYERS BOYS AND GIRLS TRAVEL BASKETBALL!

The Bensenville Park District has teamed with Fenton High School to create a travel basketball feeder program, allowing middle school students residing within Fenton High School District 100 boundaries the opportunity to try out for the team. Tryouts for the Bville Flyers take place Saturday, September 9. Grade 6 boys and girls tryouts take place 12:45 to 2:15 pm, grade 7 tryouts run from 2:30 to 4 pm and tryouts for eighth grade boys and girls run from 4:15 to 5:45 pm. Those making the teams will receive a uniform from the Bensenville Park District. The season includes two practices per week with games falling on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. The tryout fee of $10 will be applied to the participation fee for those making the teams.

Contact BAponte@BvilleParks.org for more information.

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 f or Student Services

Edgar Palacios | Director of Multilingual Programs and English Learners

DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS

Blackhawk Middle School | 630 766 2601

Dr. Perry Finch | Principal

Concetta Caringella | 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

FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Together, we’ll take District 2 to the next level

Greetings BSD2 Families, Students, Staff and Community Members, I hope your summer has been restful and rejuvenating. Our 2023-2024 school year began August 16, and this year we’re ready to take it to the next level!

All year, our staff will be studying the book Next Level Teaching –Empowering Students & Transforming School Culture by Jonathan Alsheimer. Mr. Alsheimer was also the keynote speaker for this year’s Welcome back! Institute Day activities for staff. Academic Achievement and Climate & Culture are two of our top priorities, and his message provides valuable insights into how we can create unstoppable enthusiasm around learning and continue developing a climate and culture where everyone is energized and excited to come to school each day.

Also, another District priority is safety and security. Last year, we conducted a safety audit and throughout the summer we completed additional work to provide safe and secure learning and working environments for all of our stakeholders. They include: installation of vaping sensors in the bathrooms at Blackhawk Middle School, testing the use of video cameras on school buses, collaborating with the Village of Bensenville Emergency Management Coordinator to review and revise schools’ emergency maps and evacuation plans, and providing staff with ALICE training through the Bensenville Police Department.

Phase 1 of renovations at Blackhawk Middle School also began this summer with the abatement of asbestos and installation of new flooring throughout the school. Its completion sets the stage for Phase 2 to occur next summer. Those renovations will bring Blackhawk new interior finishes; science, nursing and special education upgrades; classroom additions; courtyard renovations; and an expansion of the school’s gym and fitness facilities. These improvements will be paid for with savings accumulated in prior years, continuing the District’s effective use of resources through fiscal planning and responsiveness.

Academic Achievement, Climate & Culture, Safety & Security, and Finance & Resources continue to be our top priorities identified in the five-year strategic plan adopted by the Board last year. We will continue to focus on these priorities as we step into year two of the District’s work.

Whether you’re a parent, student, staff member, or community member, you play an important role in our mission to ignite within our students a lifelong desire to learn and succeed in an ever-changing world, and we are eager to continue Learning and Growing Together.

As we begin another new school year, I am excited to see what we will accomplish together. I am confident we will continue to make great strides in improving student outcomes and creating positive learning environments for all.

Thank you for partnering with us to educate the children of this wonderful community. I know that 2023-2024 will be another fabulous school year!

Sincerely,

DR. KATIE MCCLUSKEY Superintendent of Schools BENSENVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

A TASTE OF COLLEGE

CURE grant field trip introduces bilingual summer school students to College of Dupage Culinary and Hospitality Center

Bilingual BSD2 summer school students recently joined students from Fenton High School on a tour of the College of DuPage Culinary and Hospitality Center.

During the visit, older students had the opportunity to help COD students in an international cooking class prepare a menu inspired by cuisine from Myanmar, while younger students helped COD students in their first semester in the program prepare pork and lamb dishes. At the end of the visit, everyone toured the center’s facilities, including the Inn at Water’s Edge Hotel, which COD operates as part of its educational facilities. Students also participated in a Q&A session with COD Culinary and Hospitality Center faculty, and received a small gift and a COD apron as a token of appreciation.

“This was a great opportunity for our students to experience and visualize what attending college could be, from an early age,” said Edgar Palacios, Director of Multilingual Programs & English Learners. “It contextualized learning and learning opportunities for our students.”

This field trip was made possible by a Coronavirus Urgent Remediation Emergency Fund grant from the U.S. Department of Education. CURE Fund after-school programs provide opportunities outside of the school day to improve academic outcomes, expose students to an array of college and career opportunities, and provide mentoring and advocacy programs that inspire youth empowerment and development.

EARLY CHILDHOOD OUTREACH

Our youngest students had fun learning and growing together this summer

In the summer, District 2’s Early Childhood (EC) Programs focus on the fundamentals – on supporting the development of the District’s youngest students’ physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and linguistic skills.They do so by doing what kids like the most: playing and having fun!

Every other Wednesday, the District’s EC staff met families near Argyle and Irving Park apartments, and walked with them to the park, where they led storytime and singalongs for kids.

EC staff also offered special events that helped families make important connections in the community this summer. A community resource fair at Argyle Apartments allowed families to process WIC/EBT cards, receive free dental cleanings from the DuPage County Health Department Mobile Dental Clinic, sign up for developmental screenings for the BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Program, learn about the BSD2 Birth-to-3 Program, and explore offerings from the YWCA and Bensenville Community Public Library.

And a picnic at Redmond Park featured four fun, hands-on learning stations provided by the DuPage Children’s Museum, free lunch served to more than 50 families by The Taco Guy, and complimentary ice cream provided to all participants by La Michoacana Familiar.

For more information on District 2’s Early Childhood Programs, visit the Bensenville Early Learning Center at Tioga School, 212 W. Memorial Road in Bensenville, or contact Christy Poli, Pre-Kindergarten & Birth-to-3 Coordinator, at 630.766.2602 ext. 4237 or cpoli@bsd2.org.

DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS

District 2 is offering free developmental screenings on September 13 and 14

Do you have a child between the ages of 3 and 5?

Professionals will assess the development of your child’s large and fine motor skills, pre-academic readiness, and speech, language, vision and hearing. The screening will help identify children who qualify for the District’s free preschool program, or who would benefit from additional services prior to entering kindergarten.

Your child must be 3 years old by the screening date to participate. Screenings take about an hour and require an appointment.

For more information, or to make an appointment, call Tioga School at 630.766.2602 ext. 4200.

SUMMER LEARNING

‘High-impact’ tutoring program helped prepare students for success this school year

In June, 191 students in Grades K-7 participated in the District’s traditional summer learning program. Additionally, 71 participated in its English Learners summer program.

The programs prepared students for success in the coming school year by increasing their proficiency in literacy and math.

The District received $66,719 from a federal High-Impact Tutoring (HIT) Grant to provide academic support this summer for students still experiencing learning loss due to the pandemic.

The HIT Grant allowed the District to partner with the Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois State University to provide special learning modules in the summer programs that helped prepare these students for success in the coming school year.

BUS DRIVERS! LUNCH SUPERVISORS! CROSSING GUARDS!

Looking for part-time employment? District 2 has the perfect opportunity for you!

District 2 is looking to fill several part-time positions that are perfect employment opportunities for retirees and for parents interested in working while their children are at school.

To apply for any of these positions, visit bsd2.org/employment.

BUS DRIVERS | Being a part-time bus driver is a rewarding opportunity! Pay starts at $27 per hour with a $2,000 sign-on bonus. The position includes sick days and contributions toward an IMRF pension. District 2 also provides paid training for the required commercial driver’s license and longevity bonuses for years of service.

LUNCH & RECESS SUPERVISORS | Many of our lunch and recess supervisors are parents working part time during the middle of the day while their children are at school. Lunch and recess supervisors work with students in order for students to eat lunch, come and go from the lunchroom and playground, and monitor students’ behavior while they eat and play. Some supervisors also work breakfast shifts. Pay starts at $14.30 per hour.

CROSSING GUARDS | Crossing guards work short shifts every morning and every afternoon, helping students cross busy intersections and walkways on their way to and from school. Pay starts at $14.30 per hour.

the future looks bright!

BCPL Dreams Display through September 8 Monthly Senior Luncheon FHS 12:08 Early Dismissal

Fall Community Yard Sale

FHS Northwestern University Band Day

4-H Open House, 11am-1pm, Fischer Farm

BPD

Fall Community Yard Sale BPD Food Friday-Ice Cream, 3:30pm, Fischer Farm (6+)

Coffee With The President, 9-11am, Sunset Park

FHS Homecoming Dance BPD Train Museum Open House, noon-4pm, Veterans Park

BPD Playground Grand Opening, 1pm, Arbor Park

BCPL Tenango Embroidery, 2pm BPD Corn Hole & Cannolis, noon-2pm, Sunset Park Wilkes Family Halloween Display, 7-9pm, Town Center BPD Harvest Fest, 11am-7pm, Fischer Farm

BSD2 Teacher Institute Day No Student Attendance

Fall Community Yard Sale

BCPL Cards & Games Social Club, 1pm BPD Board Meeting, 6pm, DGLC

BCPL The Needle Guild, 6pm Brush & Branch Pickup, Brush and branches out by 7am CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

FHS No School/Labor Day BSD2 Schools & Offices Closed BCPL Library is Closed

FHS Homecoming Football Game 7pm, Triton College BSD2 Developmental Screenings, by appointment, no Pre-K attendance

BCPL Cards & Games Social Club, 1pm BCPL Digging for Apples, 6:30pm

Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

BPD KABOOM! Playground Build, 8am-4pm, Arbor Park

BSD2 Developmental Screenings, by appointment, no Pre-K attendance

BCPL Loteria, 6:30pm BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum Night Morning Classes 4:15-4-45pm Afternoon Classes 4:45-5:15pm BSD2 Blackhawk Curriculum Night, 6:30-8pm BPD Lunch Bunch & Bingo, noon-3pm, DGLC

BCPL Cards & Games Social Club, 1pm BCPL Not a Book ClubFilm Talk; John Wick , 7pm BPD Board Meeting, 6pm, DGLC

BCPL The Needle Guild, 6pm Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BSD2 Johnson & Tioga Curriculum Nights Last Names A-K 5:30-6pm, Last Names L-Z: 6-6:30pm BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, EAC

Wilkes Family Halloween Display Begins, 7-9pm, Town Center FHS Senior Portraits Retake/Make Up (after school) BPD Food Friday-Popcorn, 3.30pm, Fischer Farm (4+)

BCPL Library is Closed

BCPL Trivia Night at Green St. Grille, 7pm FHS Homecoming Week through September 16

Fall Community Yard Sale

BPD Family Golf Night, 5pm, White Pines

BCPL Cards & Games Social Club, 1pm BCPL Write Your Own Book, 6:30pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm BSD2 First-Trimester Mid-Term

BCPL Latino Film Festival: McFarland, USA, 6:30pm Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall