bensenville hello!
a lifelong learning community | november/december 2024
HAPPY
HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING CONTEST
Nomination period now through December 13
Nominate your home by emailing your property address, name, phone, and pictures to holidaycontest@bensenville.il.us by December 13. Submitted properties will be posted to the Village’s Facebook page.
GOLF STICKS & DRUMSTICKS SCRAMBLE
Saturday | November 23 | 10 am | White Pines
Golfers of all skill levels are invited to form four-person teams and participate in White Pines’ inaugural four-person scramble.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL TRIP
Saturday | November 23 | 1 – 6 pm
McAninch Arts Center
This William J. Norris show brings the Charles Dickens classic to life with a cast of 50 local actors and children sure to usher in the holiday season with joy!
HOLIDAY CAR PARADE WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SANTA
Sunday | November 24 | 4:45 pm
Begins at Tioga School continuing down Center Street and ending in Downtown Bensenville.
HOLIDAY MAGIC AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Sunday | November 24 | 4:45 pm
DOWNTOWN BENSENVILLE
Holiday Parade Begins 4:45 pm | Tree Lighting 5 pm
Visits with Santa 5:15 – 7 pm
WOOD ST. FITNESS BLACK FRIDAY NEW MEMBER EVENT
Friday | November 29 | 6 am – 2 pm | DGLC
Purchase a new Wood Street Fitness membership (fitness center, group fitness classes and/or add-ons) for 2025 and receive the rest of 2024 free!
WINTER READING CHALLENGE
December 1 – January 31 | All Ages | At the Library
Pick up a bookmark at the Adult or Youth Services Desk,complete the challenges, and win prizes!
LETTERS TO SANTA
December 1 – 15 | DGLC | Fischer Farm | White Pines
Asking Santa for a special Christmas gift? Write a letter to him and drop it off at one of our North Pole Mailboxes.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Friday | December 6 | 4:30 – 7 pm | All Ages
At the Library
Join us for a festive Holiday Open House! Starting at 4:30 p.m., enjoy music by Zazz, treats, and beverages. Kids can make crafts and snap a photo with Elsa. Plus, a holiday photo booth will be available for family photos. All are welcome!
FARMSIDE CHRISTMAS
Saturday | December 7 | 2 – 5 pm | Fischer Farm
Come to Fischer Farm and enjoy the festive holiday music and decorations before warming up around a bonfire with hot chocolate and treats.
ROBYN VITSON FIRESIDE HOLIDAY CONCERT
Saturday | December 7 | 2 – 3 pm | All Ages At the Library
Celebrate the holiday season with Robyn Vitson’s performance of classic hits. Enjoy sing-along fun and jingle bells as she showcases her piano and vocal talents.
JINGLE, ZUMBA, BRUNCH & BUBBLY BASH
Saturday | December 8 | 10:30 am | White Pines
Join spirited Zumba instructors as they lead participants through 45 minutes of holiday-themed moves, blending low- and highintensity exercises in an interval-style session suitable for all fitness levels.
WINTER CARD MAKING
Monday | December 9 | 7 – 8 pm | Adults Only At the Library
Get creative with card maker Moira Schultz as she shares her passion and teaches you how to make a winter card, bookmark, and holiday tag.
SENIOR HOLIDAY PARTY
Friday | December 13 | 10 am – 1 pm
MONTY’S ELEGANT BANQUETS
Pre-registration is required. No walk-in on day of event. For more information visit the Heritage Center at 12 S. Center Street, or call the Senior Hotline at 630.350.3426.
PET PICTURES WITH SANTA
Saturday | December 14 | 9 am– 12 pm | At the Library
Capture the holiday magic with your pet in a festive photo with Santa! Fetching Tails Foundation will be joining us for an adoption showcase. A $5.00 donation per Santa sitting is suggested, with all proceeds benefiting Fetching Tails Foundation.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT WHITE PINES
Saturday | December 14 | 10 am – 12:30 pm
Sunday | December 15 | 10 am – 12:30 pm
Enjoy a holiday breakfast buffet with Santa Claus. Children are able to visit and have a photo taken with Santa and join in holiday craft activities. Reservations are required at 630.766.0304 ext. 2.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY ICE SHOW
Sunday | December 15 | 12:30 pm | Edge Ice Arena
$12 general admission and open to the public. Includes Skate with Santa after the show ($3.00 skate rental additional).
FENTON ANNUAL BAND & HOLIDAY CONCERT
Sunday | December 15 | 2 pm | Fenton High School
Join the Fenton High School choral and band ensembles in the auditorium for festive holiday music. Admission is free.
CHRISTMAS COOKIE BAKE-OFF
Monday | December 16 | 2 – 3 pm | DGLC Oak Room
The fourth annual Oak Room Christmas Cookie Bake Off is the most competitive bake-off in the whole Bensenville Park District!
ROSCA DE REYES: THREE KINGS DAY AT THE LIBRARY
Tuesday | January 7 | 6 – 7 pm | All Ages
Join us in celebrating Three Kings Day, a cherished tradition where families gather to share a special bread. Hidden inside is a lucky token—whoever finds it is in for a special surprise! Enjoy delicious bread and drinks with us as we honor this sweet tradition.
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 twaldorf@bsd2.org. Deadline for January/February issue is November 27, 2024.
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
Tammy Hoeflinger Director of Human Resources
DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS
Blackhawk Middle School 630 766 2601
Diana Vergara | Principal
Tioga School | 630 766 2602
Jeffrey Kersten | Principal
W.A. Johnson School | 630 766 2605
Carlos Patiño | Principal
Bensenville Early Learning Center
Christy Poli | Pre-Kindergarten & Birth-to-3 Coordinator
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
INTERACTIVE, ENGAGING & COMPREHENSIVE
We are thrilled to introduce Carnegie Learning’s ClearMath Elementary in our schools this year!
Carnegie Learning’s ClearMath Elementary is an innovative educational program designed specifically for young learners to explore and enjoy mathematics through a blend of interactive, engaging, and comprehensive learning experiences.
Why ClearMath Elementary? ClearMath Elementary aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality, research-based educational tools that not only meet but exceed our curriculum standards. It is tailored to foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through:
• Interactive Learning: Each lesson is built around playful, engaging activities that make learning math not just educational but, fun.
• Personalized Education: Adapted to meet the unique learning styles and paces of each student, ensuring that all children can achieve their full potential.
• Foundation for Future Success: By establishing strong math fundamentals, ClearMath Elementary sets the groundwork for lifelong learning and success in mathematics and beyond.
Our goal with ClearMath Elementary is to illuminate the brilliance of our students by making math a subject they look forward to. We believe that by integrating this program, we will not only enhance our students’ mathematical skills but, also build their confidence and enjoyment in learning.
DOLLARS & SENSE
District 2 Board of Education approves 2024-2025 budget
The District 2 Board of Education approved the 2024-2025 budget at its September 18 meeting. The budget authorizes about $46.4 million of revenue, and $57 million in expenditures, including $11 million for the renovation of Blackhawk Middle School. The renovation costs are being paid for with cash on hand from before the year began. Without the renovation costs, the budget has a modest surplus of about $600,000, or 1.3 percent of revenue.
For more information, visit bsd2.org/budget.
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS DAY
Give them the recognition they have earned!
November 15 – School Board Members Day – is our opportunity to thank the seven members of the Bensenville School District 2 Board of Education, and give them the recognition they have earned for providing a local voice for our community’s education decisions.
These individuals wear many hats: they are educational leaders, policy makers, contract negotiators, and budgeters. But they are also our neighbors and our friends!
They are the front-line advocates providing a local voice for the BSD2 community, a vision for the District, and a pathway to success for every student. They safeguard two of our community’s most precious resources – our children and tax dollars – while striving to create the best educational environment possible with the resources available.
They also take on this responsibility not for a paycheck, but for their commitment to our community and its children. They donate their time to this community and commit to making our schools welcoming, safe places for our students to achieve their dreams.
So thank you, Bensenville School District 2 Board of Education Members, for learning together and leading together. Together, we are making a difference for every District 2 student!
DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS
District 2 is offering free developmental screenings on Friday, December 6
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.
200 South Church Road
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
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
Thursday, November 28 | Thanksgiving Tuesday, December 24 | Christmas Eve
Wednesday, December 25 | Christmas Day
Tuesday, December 31 | New Year’s Eve Wednesday, January 1, 2025 New Year’s Day
Get a LIBRARY CARD
To register, renew, or replace a Bensenville Library card, you must bring a valid governmentissued 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
Lit Loot Subscription Box: Spooky Season
OCTOBER 16 – NOVEMBER 27 | GRADES 1-12
Get ready for a scary (or not-so-scary) tale! Sign up to reserve a box containing two books for checkout along with treats, activities, and crafts for you to keep. Tell us your scary-level preference and we’ll pick books to suit. Fill out a brief survey to receive books tailored just for you. Register at the Youth Services desk or scan the QR code to receive a box tailored just for you!
Family Storytime: All Together Now!
EVERY WEDNESDAY | 10:30-11:00 AM | AGES 0-5
Gather the family for a fabulous story time, perfect for ages 0-5! We will sing, read, talk, and play our way through a half-hour of delightful stories, songs, and rhymes.
Saturday Stories with a Principal
SATURDAY | NOVEMBER 16 | 9:30-10:15 AM | AGES 0-11
Join us for a special storytime with a Principal from District 2! Children ages 0-11 can enjoy a morning of engaging stories and creative crafting. This program helps build a love for reading, enhances listening skills, and encourages creativity. It’s also a great chance for kids to meet a local school principal and connect with their community.
The Great Bensenville Family Bake-Off!
TUESDAY | NOVEMBER 19 | 6:30-7:30 PM | FAMILY
Get ready for some holiday fun at the library! Join us for a crafty bake-off where we’ll provide supplies to create imaginative pretend cookies using paper, playdoh, and more. Please note that these won’t be edible cookies, but they’ll be just as fun to make!
STEAM Lab: Make a Model Boat
MONDAY | NOVEMBER 25 | 1:00-2:00 PM | GRADES 1-5
Build and test out your own boat inspired by Moana. We’ll look at examples of Polynesian watercraft like Moana’s outrigger canoe for inspiration. Intended for Grades 1-5.
En Español: Construye y prueba tu propia embarcación inspirada en Moana. Nos inspiraremos en ejemplos de embarcaciones polinesias, como la canoa con balancín de Moana. Grados 1-5.
“A library is not a luxury but one of the necessities of life.”
— HENRY WARD BEECHER
Arts & Crafts Fair
SATURDAY | NOVEMBER 23 | 10 AM-1:00 PM | YOUTH SELLERS
SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 24 | 1:00-4:00 PM | ADULT SELLERS
Looking for a unique gift for someone special in your life? Our local artists and crafters are selling their handmade arts and crafts, just in time for the holiday season! This year there’s going to be crocheted stuffed animals, paintings, handmade cards, slime, knitted hats and scarves, ornaments, gnomes, and more!
Raina Telgemeier Live Watch Party
TUESDAY | DECEMBER 10
Dungeons & Dragons
WEDNESDAYS | NOVEMBER 6, 13 & 20 | 3:00-5:00 PM | GRADES 6-12
Gather after school for a weekly high-octane, rules-light game session. Beginner and experienced players welcome! Intended for grades 6 to 12.
En Español: Reúnase después de la escuela para una sesión semanal de juego de alto octanaje y reglas sencillas. Se admiten jugadores principiantes y experimentados.
Snacks from Around the World
THURSDAY | DECEMBER 5 | 3:30-4:30 PM | TEENS
Sample some snacks from around the world. We’ll explore the flavors of a different country each month. Bring your appetite!
Video Game Book Club
WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 4 | 6:30-7:30 PM | TEENS
Have you ever wanted to attend a book club that was actually about a video game? Come on down to the library to discuss The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Feel free to bring your Switch as well!
LEGO Club for Teens
THURSDAY | DECEMBER 12 | 3:30-4:30 PM | GRADES 6-12
Join us after school and build with some LEGO bricks!
Holiday DIY Body Scrub
WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 18 | 6:30-7:30 PM | AGES 10 AND UP
Make a peppermint body scrub just in time for the holidays. All materials will be provided.
7:00-8:00 P.M GRADES 4 AND UP
Join us to watch critically acclaimed comics artist Raina Telgemeier on the big screen. The author and illustrator of the graphic novels Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, and Guts, she also adapted and illustrated four graphic novel versions of Ann M. Martin’s Baby-Sitters Club series. Raina’s accolades include six Eisner Awards, a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor, a Stonewall Honor, and many Best-of and Notables lists.
Mug Decorating
WEDNESDAY | NOVEMBER 6 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES
Get ready for winter by decorating your own mug. A free packet of hot chocolate will be provided to go with it!
En Español: ¡Prepárate para el invierno decorando tu propia taza! ¡Se proporcionará un paquete de chocolate caliente gratis! ¡Todas las edades, adolescentes y adultos son bienvenidos!
Dia de los Muertos Sugar Skulls
THURSDAY | NOVEMBER 7 | 6:30-7:30 PM | ALL AGES
Curious about this Aztec ritual? Come and celebrate the history of Dia de los Muertos and paint your own ofrenda. All decorating materials will be provided. The sugar skulls will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
En Español: ¿Curioso acerca de este ritual azteca? Ven y celebra la historia del Día de los Muertos y pinta tu propia ofrenda. Se proporcionarán todos los materiales de decoración. Las calaveras de azúcar estarán disponibles por orden de llegada.
Fall Watercolor Wreath
THURSDAY | NOVEMBER 7 | 7:00-8:00 PM | ADULTS
Embrace the beauty of the season as we learn to paint a fall wreath using watercolors. All materials will be supplied.
Genealogy 101: FamilySearch Sleuthing
THURSDAY | NOVEMBER 21 | 7:00-8:00 PM | ADULTS | VIRTUAL
FamilySearch.org offers so many genealogical treasures and ALL FOR FREE! We will explore FamilySearch basics and go on to investigate many of FamilySearch’s under-utilized features. This wonderful site offers a great deal more than you might think. Please register at bit.ly/Family-Search
Love Lit Book Club
We blend romance and literary fiction to explore love, loss, and human connections through storytelling.
Neon Gods by Katee Robert
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14 | 7:00 P.M.
A scorchingly hot modern retelling of Hades and Persephone that’s as sinful as it is sweet.
Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 | 7:00 P.M.
A compelling novel about hope and healing, and what it truly means to love for a lifetime. A contemporary romance.
FENTON COMMUNITY
HIGH SCHOOL | District 100
1000 West Green Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 2500
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
Kate Ward
Interim Associate Superintendent/Principal
Jose Jaramillo | Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Operations
Rick Kambic | Director of Communications and Community Engagement
Stephanie Jackson
Interim Director of Learning/Division Leader
Michelle Papanicolaou | Director of Postsecondary Pathways/Division Leader
Pedro Rodriguez
Director of Athletics/Division Leader
Eric Koranda
Assistant Principal/Division Leader
Julia Bray | Assistant Principal/Division Leader
Lorenzo Rubio
Director of Equity/Division Leader
Carmen Abraham | Dean of Students
Marvin Vargas | Dean of Students
Brittany Ruttenberg | Technology Supervisor
FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
Dear Fenton School Community,
The 2024-2025 School Year is off to a great start and we have plenty of exciting highlights to cover:
Homecoming
Congratulations to our Homecoming Royalty and all the winners from our Homecoming Assembly competitions. Thank you to Mrs. Casterton, her team of Class Council Advisors, and Assistant Principal Julia Bray for all the awesome Disco Fever themed activities.
We also had visits from the Alumni Class of 2004, 1984, 1977, and 1964. We value our school’s rich history and all the relationships we maintain that promote our legacy and often lead toward opportunities for current students.
Day of Service
Community Service is a unique and cherished graduation requirement at Fenton High School. Volunteering one’s time and energy to improve their community creates common ground, builds empathy, and unites us as neighbors.
In late September about 60 students participated in Fenton’s Day of Service by volunteering with projects at Fisher Farm, Blackhawk Middle School, Redmond Park, and a few needs here at Fenton.
Thank you to our community partners for welcoming our students into these real world experiences.
Stadium Reopening
Our water mitigation project wrapped up this summer and our stadium reopened for classes, student activities, and athletic competitions.
Girls Flag Football became an official IHSA sport this year, which means our team came into existence with one of the best home fields around!
The new turf and stadium layout brought our Boys Soccer team back to Fenton’s campus for the first time in decades, and our students enjoyed watching the Bison go 7-3-1 through Homecoming.
We celebrated this new community asset during our first football game on September 6. What made it even more exciting was the 43-8 final score in favor of the Bison!
Thank you to the attending representatives from the Fenton School Board, Village of Bensenville (including Village President Frank DeSimone), City of Wood Dale, Bensenville Park District, Wood Dale Park District, Bensenville School District 2, Wood Dale School District 7, and from the Bensenville Community Public Library.
Band & Choir Holiday Concert
Our Annual Band & Choir Concert takes place Sunday, December 15 at 2 pm in the Fenton Auditorium. This incredible show is a must-see event that is free and open to the public.
Let’s Go BISON!
@FentonHS
SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Interim Superintendent
NEW 9/11 SCHOLARSHIP HONORS LOCAL SUPPORTER
Fenton is honored to establish a new annual college scholarship in partnership with the fire protection districts in Bensenville and Wood Dale. It’s called the Travis Hall for Heroes Scholarship.
Travis Hall is 18 years old from Leyden Township and he’s provided dinner for first responders all over the area every September 11th for the last 14 years, including in Wood Dale and Bensenville the last few years. Travis recruits restaurants to donate food and he also fundraises to purchase and deliver other food himself.
On September 11 this year, Bensenville Fire Chief Doug Halverson announced the new Travis Hall for Heroes Scholarship to benefit Fenton High School students who are pursuing fire science, EMS, or other related fields in college or trade schools.
This new scholarship is a great partnership featuring the Bensenville Firefighters Association, Wood Dale Fire Department, Bensenville Professional Association of Firefighters Local 2968 and the Wood Dale Professional Association of Firefighters Local 3594 each donating $250 to the Fenton Foundation for a collective $1,000 scholarship.
Fenton School Board Member Leo Figueroa is president of the Fenton Foundation and he joined with police and fire personnel in celebrating this new scholarship.
FENTON STUDENTS EARN 5S ON AP EXAMS
Congratulations to the 19 remarkable Fenton students and alums who earned 5 out of 5 points on their Advanced Placement (AP) exams last spring. A high score, especially a 5, means the students earned college credit while still in high school.
The Fenton Board of Education recognized each student during its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, September 25. Ten of the top scores are from returning students who have more opportunities to earn college credit. One student even earned a 5 on multiple exams! Each returning student received a congratulatory yard signs and Take 5 candy bars.
INCUBATOR RECEIVES FIRST DONATION TOWARD PRIZE MONEY
Thank you to the Bensenville Youth Coalition for donating $500 toward Fenton’s new INCubator program. The check was delivered to Mr. Garcia’s 3rd period Entrepreneurship Class on Thursday, October 3.
Students who are approved to take the full year Entrepreneurship class (also known as INCubator) have the opportunity to create and fully develop their own product or service and incorporate it into a real-world business they own. Guided by real-world entrepreneurs and local industry-leading mentors, students experience the full range of business operations, including ideation, research, marketing, accounting, human resources, as well as the legal aspects of running a business. The course culminates in Pitch Week, where student teams present their innovative ideas to actual investors, with the chance to secure funding to bring their business plans to life. This process not only sparks creativity but also equips students with practical skills and experience to pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the real world.
To become a mentor or to donate money to Pitch Week, contact Michelle Papanicolaou by sending an email to papanicolaou@fenton100.org.
COACH FARRELL NAMED CHICAGO BEARS HIGH SCHOOL COACH OF THE WEEK
Congratulations to Fenton Football Coach Mark Farrell on being named the Chicago Bears and Athletico High School Coach of the Week during Week 4 of the NFL season. At that point, the Mighty Bison were 3-0 on the season, their best start since 2014. By the end of Homecoming, Fenton was 4-1.
Coach Farrell returns as head coach after 13 years away from the sideline. His confidence, expectations, attention to detail, and strong team structure have made a big difference to our students. This nomination was reviewed and selected by a committee of internal Chicago Bears staff and executives, as well as a few representatives from Athletico Physical Therapy. They will make a $2,000 donation to the Fenton football program.
Coach Farrell will be recognized at the December 22nd Bears game against the Lions, along with all the other Coach of the Week recipients.
BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT
Happy Holidays!
The Bensenville Park District offers warm wishes to its residents during this holiday season and into the new year! The Winter-Spring Program Guide will be posted to the BvilleParks.org website and delivered to homes in midNovember, and registration for those living in park district boundaries begins in December.
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
Bensenville Railroad Museum
Veterans Park
@BvilleTrain
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
The park district’s winter-spring season brings a number of opportunities for people to join together. Whether it be to celebrate the community’s veterans, helping celebrate the holidays, playing a sport like basketball or getting to work on a healthier body at Wood Street Fitness, the park district has you covered!
ALL ABOARD!
Explore the history of trains in Bensenville at Bensenville Railroad Museum at Veteran’s Park each weekend. Stop by the 1920s-era locomotive from noon – 4 pm Saturday or Sunday and participate in a different craft or activity each day. Don’t miss Train Tuesday Story Time from 10 am – 1 pm.
WHITE PINES IS MORE THAN GOLF
Let the White Pines Golf Club help celebrate the season. The facility is perfect for holiday parties, corporate events and other special occasions. Contact banquets@whitepinesgolf.com or call 630.766.0304 ext. 2 to schedule holiday events.
Join the fun at 37 Bar & Grill for NFL football watch parties each Sunday starting at 11 am and bear down on half-priced appetizers and drink specials while watching NFL football favorites.
VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST | MONDAY | NOVEMBER 11 | 9 AM
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 at 9 am Monday, November 11, at the White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson St., Bensenville. In-district United States armed forces veterans and their immediate families are invited to dine for free at the breakfast. Other guests may attend for a small fee. Highlights include a guest speaker as well as presentations by Fenton High School Defending Freedom Essay Contest winners. Pre-registration is required at the Deer Grove Leisure Center or by calling 630.766.7015.
THAT’S PUZZLING COMPETITION
| FRIDAY | NOVEMBER 15
Gather your team and get ready to go head-to-head in this community puzzle competition as teams of three-to-four square off against other teams to see which team can complete a 500-piece puzzle in the shortest amount of time. The winning team will receive great prizes! Fee: $50/team.
GOLF STICKS & DRUMSTICKS |
SATURDAY | NOVEMBER 23
Golfers of all skill levels are invited to form four-person teams and participate in White Pines’ Golf Sticks and Drumsticks fourperson scramble November 23, beginning with a 10 am. shotgun start. Each participant will take home a frozen turkey, just in time for Thanksgiving. Additionally, each player will receive two drink tickets, valid for domestic or non-alcoholic beverages, to add to the festivities. An optional $20 team skins game is also available. Complete registration and payment at the White Pines Pro Shop or call 630.766.0304 by November 18. The team entry fee is $380 or $95 per person.
TRIP: A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT THE BELUSHI PERFORMANCE HALL
SATURDAY | NOVEMBER 23
Don’t be a Scrooge! Kick off the holidays with a trip to the McAninch Arts Center for a 70-minute, family friendly performance of A Christmas Carol. This William J. Norris show brings this Charles Dickens classic to life with a cast of 50 local actors and children sure to usher in the holiday season with joy! Sign up by November 15. Fees are just $30 ($25 in district) and include transportation.
FARMSIDE CHRISTMAS
| SATURDAY | DECEMBER 7 | 2 – 5 PM
Come to Fischer Farm and enjoy the free, festive holiday music and decorations before warming up around a bonfire with hot chocolate and treats from 2 – 5 pm Saturday, December 7. While there, get a photo with Santa and get into the holiday spirit with farm crafts and a wagon ride throughout the property. Take in the holiday decorations and lights as the sun goes down. Stop by and check out the holiday lights at the historic 1836 farm property throughout the month of December.
JINGLE, ZUMBA, BRUNCH & BUBBLY BASH
SUNDAY | DECEMBER 8 | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Join spirited Zumba instructors as they lead participants through 45 minutes of holiday-themed moves, blending low- and high-intensity exercises in an interval-style session suitable for all fitness levels from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm Sunday, December 8, at the White Pines Golf Club! Indulge in a delectable holiday brunch and sip for one festive hour of bottomless mimosas after class. Ages 21+ only; ID required upon registration and check-in. Fees are just $39, $37 in district. Sign up in advance at the DGLC.
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN
| DECEMBER 9 –13
Santa will be making personal house visits across Bensenville this holiday season. Catch him as he parades through the town in a lighted mobile workshop! Visit times will be arranged by the park district a week prior to the event. While the visits will be brief, everyone will receive a special treat and be able to share their gift list for the holiday season. Sign up early as space is very limited.
LETTERS TO SANTA
| DECEMBER 1 – 15
Asking Santa for a special Christmas gift? Write a letter to him and drop it off at North Pole Mailboxes at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, Fischer Farm and White Pines by December 15, to ensure Santa receives it on time! Please be sure to include a return address on the letter so that Santa can write back.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT WHITE PINES |
DECEMBER 14 –15 | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Enjoy a holiday breakfast buffet featuring an appearance by Santa Claus, 10 am – 12:30 pm Saturday and Sunday, December 14-15. Children are able to visit and have a photo taken with Santa as well as join in holiday craft activities. Advance reservations are required at 630.766.0304 ext. 2. Fees of $39 for adults and $19 for children ages 3-15 must be paid at time of reservation. Children ages 2 and under are free.
CHRISTMAS COOKIE BAKE-OFF | MONDAY | DECEMBER 16
The third annual Oak Room Christmas Cookie Bake Off is the most competitive bake-off in the whole Bensenville Park District! Those interested in being a part of the competition should call 630.766.7015 to reserve a slot. All participants will vote on their favorite cookie! Those competing in the competition need not pay to register. All competitors should bake two dozen cookies. Register by December 9.
BE YOUR BEST SELF IN 2024
Give the gift of fitness! 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 also available.
BLACK FRIDAY WOOD STREET FITNESS NEW MEMBER SALE
From 6 am to 2 pm on Friday, November 29, purchase a new Wood Street Fitness membership (fitness center, group fitness classes and/or add-ons) for 2025 and receive the rest of 2024 free!
BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT FACILITY CLOSURES
The Deer Grove Leisure Center, Wood Street Fitness, Fischer Farm (buildings) and White Pines Golf Club will be closed on the following days during the holiday season: November 28
December 24-25
December 31
January 1
Additional dates may be announced at a later time.
VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE
Village of Bensenville 12 South Center Street
Bensenville, Illinois 60106
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
HOLIDAY MAGIC & TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Sunday | November 24 | 4:45 pm – 7 pm
Join us at 4:45 pm in downtown Bensenville as we kick off a joyous holiday season with our annual Holiday
Magic Tree Lighting Ceremony! The night begins with a Holiday Car Parade that includes the arrival of Santa followed by the lighting of the annual Christmas Tree. Festivities following the tree lighting ceremony include horse-drawn carriage rides, mini train rides, commemorative ornaments, and a variety of treats – all for free while supplies last! You can take your own pictures with Santa Claus from 5:15 – 7 pm. Donations of new unwrapped toys, non-perishable food items, and new or lightly used coats will be accepted to help families right here in Bensenville. For additional information, visit bensenville.il.us or call 630.766.8200.
Village Manager
Evan K. Summers
Christmas Trees COMMUNITY
The Village will have a limited number of smaller Christmas trees available for residents, community organizations, or businesses to decorate prior to our tree lighting ceremony. These trees must be reserved prior to decorating by calling 630.594.1010. There is no charge to reserve a tree.
SENIOR HOLIDAY PARTY
Friday | December 13
Bensenville residents 60 and over are invited to enjoy a Senior Holiday Party on Friday, December 13. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, giveaways, and a fantastic meal. Doors open at 10 am and lunch begins at 11 am.
Pre-registration is required. No walk-in on day of event. For more information visit the Heritage Center at 12 S. Center Street, or call the Senior Hotline at 630.350.3426.
W.A. Johnson Elementary School. Please call 630.594.1010 if you would like to volunteer.
HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING CONTEST
Join the Bensenville Holiday Home Decorating Contest with your festive outdoor decor! Gather your holiday lights, reindeer, wreaths, and get creative! Nominate your home by emailing your property address, name, phone and photo to holidaycontest@bensenville.il.us by December 13 at 5 pm. Gather all your holiday lights, reindeer, wreaths, and decorations, for the Bensenville Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Decorate the outside of your house and yard in the most festive and creative manner. Submitted properties will be posted to the Village’s Facebook page.
• The Holiday Decorating Contest Committee will do the judging. Awards will be given to the best-decorated single-family home.
• Nomination Period – Now Through December 13, 2024 | Email nominations to: holidaycontest@bensenville.il.us.
• Winners will be announced at the Village Board meeting on December 17 and posted to the Village’s social media platforms.
• Entries must be received via email by 5pm on December 13.
Must be an incorporated Bensenville property to participate. The contest is for exterior decorations only, including window decorations visible from the exterior.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY ICE SHOW
Sunday | December 15 | 2:30 pm
EDGE ICE ARENA | 735 EAST JEFFERSON STREET
$12 General Admission
Open to the Public
Includes Skate with Santa after the show from 3:40 pm – 4:40 pm
($3.00 skate rental additional).
it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
CHRISTMAS TREE AND HOLIDAY TRASH PICK UP
Holiday tree collection will occur the same day as your regularly scheduled garbage service. Please remember to remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and trimmings from branches. Cut the tree in half if it is over 10 feet in height. Residents are also asked not to leave stands on the tree. Visit republicservices.com or call 708.345.7050 for additional information.
Please note that your collection will be delayed one day due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
Holiday Normal Service Date Holiday Service Date
Christmas Day Wed | Dec 25, 2024 Thurs | Dec 26, 2024
New Year’s Day Wed | Jan 1, 2025 Thurs | Jan 2, 2025
HOLIDAY LIGHT RECYCLING PROGRAM
The Village has partnered with Elgin Recycling to offer holiday light recycling free of charge. Drop off any type of holiday lights at Village Hall or the Public Works Department during regular hours of operation until the end of February. All types of holiday string lights are accepted, working or not. Please see the Village website for more information.
VILLAGE HALL WINTER
HOLIDAY HOURS
Village Hall will be closed on the following days:
THANKSGIVING
November 28 & 29
CHRISTMAS
December 24 & 25
NEW YEAR’S
December 31 & January 1
BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park
That’s Puzzling, 6-9pm, DGLC
bensenville
HOLIDAY MAGIC & TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Sunday | November 24 4:45 pm –7 pm
BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, EAC BMS Choir Fall Concert, 6:30pm, BMS FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm
Route Presort
bensenville december 2024
BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park BPD Farmside Christmas, 2-5pm, Fischer Farm FHS Students on Stage (Bison Scripts) Showcase, 7pm BSD2 Developmental Screenings No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance BMS Band Small Groups Holiday Performances at Local Retirement Homes
BPD Breakfast with Santa, 10am-12:30pm, White Pines BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park
BMS Band Small Groups Holiday Performances at Local Retirement Homes FHS Holiday Assembly BSD2 Grade 5 Field Trips to Fenton Holiday Concert Senior Holiday Party, 11am, Monty’s Banquets W.A. Johnson K-2 Winter Concerts
BMS Band Small Groups Holiday Performances at Local Retirement Homes W.A. Johnson K-2 Winter Concerts BMS Band Small Groups Holiday Performances at Local Retirement Homes Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, Bensenville Community Public Library, Diamond Room, All are welcome W.A. Johnson K-2 Winter Concerts
BMS Band Small Groups Holiday Performances at Local Retirement Homes Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall W.A. Johnson K-2 Winter Concerts
Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park FHS NHS Fall Community Service Deadline BPD Letters to Santa, DGLC, Fischer Farm, White Pines through December 15 BSD2 First-Trimester Report Cards Released BPD Winter-Spring Registration Begins, 8:30am, DGLC BSD2 Foreign Language in Elementary Schools Committee Meeting 3:45pm, EAC CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Tioga Literacy Night 6-7pm, Tioga Breakfast with Santa at White Pines DECEMBER 14 –15 10:30 AM –12:30 PM
BPD Jingle, Zumba, Brunch & Bubbly Bash, 10:30am, White Pines BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park
BMS Holiday Assemblies BPD Christmas Cookie Bake-Off, 2-3pm, DGLC Oak Room
BPD Breakfast with Santa, 10am-12:30pm, White Pines BPD Railroad Museum Open, Noon-4pm, Veterans Park FHS Music Holiday Concert, 2pm Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Final Exam Day 1 BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, EAC FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm