Q: Now that you’re fully settled into your new role, how would you describe the Park Ridge community and your adjustment so far?

A: I’m happy to say that my transition into this role has been smooth and rewarding. From the residents to the Park District staff, community organizations, and the Park Board of Commissioners, the Park Ridge community has been incredibly welcoming. There’s a genuine hometown feel here that makes me feel right at home. I’m truly honored to be working for such a respected Park District and serving this vibrant community.

Q: Has anything surprised you at all?

A: One of the biggest surprises for me has been the remarkable quality and dedication of the entire Park District staff. The creativity in programming, flawless execution of events and offerings, top-notch facilities and the hard work of those who maintain our park sites are all truly impressive. I’m also amazed by the number of participants engaging with our programs, events and facilities. The community’s enthusiasm and involvement are fantastic to witness.

Q: The anticipation is building. Can you fill us in on the progress of the Oakton project? 

A: The Oakton Sports Complex is progressing smoothly and remains on schedule for its anticipated public opening in August 2025. Significant milestones have been achieved, including the erection of the buildings for the artificial turf fields and the studio ice rink. The majority of the building floors have been poured, and parking lot improvements are already underway. This is truly an exciting and transformative project for our community. To stay updated on the progress, I encourage everyone to visit our website or follow us on social media.

The Oakton Sports Complex is progressing smoothly and remains on schedule for its anticipated public opening in August 2025. … This is truly an exciting and transformative project for our community.”

Fall fun at the Wildwood Nature Center

Q: For those who haven’t been out to the Wildwood Nature Center recently, how would you describe all the work that’s been done out there? 

A: While I didn’t have the opportunity to see the Wildwood Nature Center before the renovations, I can say that it is a fantastic asset to the community. The newly renovated Wildwood facilities, with the Nature and Program Centers, offer diverse opportunities to explore and engage with the natural environment. The prairie and pond are wonderful for discovering nature up close. I had the pleasure of participating in this year’s fishing derby with my two-year-old nephew and attended the Country Farm Fair this summer. I continue to be impressed by how our staff plans and executes such engaging programs.

The Centennial Fitness Center genuinely fosters a strong sense of community, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in fitness and recreation.”

Q: Finish this sentence: The Centennial Fitness Center is…

A: Community fitness at its finest. The center genuinely fosters a strong sense of community, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in fitness and recreation. Whether it’s swimming in the indoor pool, participating in learn-to-swim lessons, playing badminton or pickleball in the gymnasium, joining group fitness classes, scheduling personal training sessions or working out at your own pace, in the fitness center, there’s something for everyone. It’s a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone can feel engaged and supported.

Pickleball instruction at the Centennial Fitness Center

Q: How did the Park District’s composting project develop, and how important is it to teach the children involved in camps about helping the environment?

A: The Park District’s composting project was initiated by our part-time sustainability coordinator, a key role created to advance our green and sustainability efforts. This project is part of a broader initiative to enhance our environmental practices. Teaching children involved in Park District camps about composting and environmental stewardship is crucial. By incorporating these lessons, we’re not only fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness in the younger generation, but also supporting our overall goal of sustainability. This initiative is an important step in creating a more environmentally conscious community.

The creativity in our programming, flawless execution of events and offerings, top-notch facilities and the hard work of those who maintain our park sites are all truly impressive.”

Q: Fall program registration is open. Give us a couple programs that may fall under the radar but people should definitely know about. 

A: Fall registration is now open, and there are some standout programs that you won’t want to miss! The autumn brochure is available digitally on our website at prparks.org, showcasing a wide range of offerings from infant programs to active adult classes through the S.T.A.R. membership at the Centennial Activity Center. This fall, be sure to check out our youth basketball leagues, exciting new volleyball programs and our popular recital dance classes. Please note, participation in our fall dance classes is required to take part in the spring recital. It’s truly impressive how our dedicated staff have crafted such a diverse and engaging lineup.

Q: What’s on the horizon for the Park District? What has you most excited about the near future?

A: We’re all very excited for the completion of the Oakton Sports Complex in August 2025. This facility will offer much more than just ice sports. While hockey, figure skating and speed skating will be key components, the complex will also provide a wealth of opportunities for the public. Indoors, the turf fieldhouse will host various athletic programs. An indoor walking path will circle the perimeter of the turf field with various walking times open to the public based on the programming schedule. Multipurpose rooms will provide space for programs, private rentals and community meeting spaces. And a concession stand will service patrons sitting in the lobby or the outdoor patio enjoying the fireplace that extends to both areas.

Outdoors, the park will feature a walking path totaling approximately a half mile, a council ring for sitting and peacefully enjoying the oak grove, and a new dog park. The driving range will remain on site with improvements to the netting and poles. This project is truly going to be a fantastic addition to our community, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience all it has to offer.

Oakton sports complex