ParkTalk Podcast

In this episode we introduce two of the four new commissioners elected in April 2021 and learn more about them. Guests: Mary Gibson, Park Board Vice President and Alison Thompson, Park Board Commissioner

In this episode, we kick off the podcast’s theme of “Rebuilding and Renewing” in addition to providing a high-level overview of the aspects to be covered in the various 2022 State of the Naperville Park District episodes. Guests: Marie Todd, Park Board President and Mary Gibson, Park Board Vice President

Volunteer and retired teacher David Cleveland shares stories from decades of environmental projects with children and adults and his nature experiences while running locally and internationally.

Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman gives insight into the needs and habits of common animals and birds that overwinter in northern Illinois, where to see them, bird feeding tips, and how to look for animal tracks in the snow.

Dr. Doug Taron, biologist and Chief Curator of the Chicago Academy of Sciences at the Peggy Notebaert Museum, discusses the unique characteristics of fireflies and how to appreciate and protect them.

Ben Mjolsness, the City of Naperville’s first Sustainability Coordinator, discusses the City’s opportunities for working with local partners to make progress in saving energy, reducing waste and conserving our natural environment on a local level.

John Teper and Spencer Huard explain the latest improvements to the disc golf course at Knoch Knolls Park and why they enjoy the sport and this location.

Lee Meyer, a fleet technician for the Naperville Park District, explains the latest improvements that make the District’s vehicles and equipment cleaner, greener, safer and more efficient.

John Teper, one of the park operations managers for the Naperville Park District, shares some of the innovations that staff has developed to solve everyday problems. These include a dust shield for a baseball field groomer, a paint mixing station, floating islands of native plants in ponds and more.

Geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Sachin Bhalerao explains the challenges of isolation for older adults and offers hope and practical advice for those recovering from mental illnesses that may have developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also discusses the importance of structure and social contact in maintaining a healthy mind in both good and bad times.

Gina Sharp, President and CEO of Linden Oaks Behavior Health, comments on the mental health pandemic that has occurred with COVID-19 and gives tips for returning to work, coping with stress, connecting with nature and getting the rest we need.

KidsMatter is a local nonprofit working to empower kids to realize their purpose, know their value and find their pathway. Executive Director and CEO Nina Menis describes the community resources available to help youth cope with anxiety and emerge stronger from the pandemic.

Jennifer Slown and Lew Breese describe the future Gold Star Families Memorial planned for Veterans Park in Naperville, why it's important and how others can help.

Gregg Kantz, founder of the nonprofit organization, Pull-up Bars for Patriots, explains why he wants to honor fallen service members by installing pull-up bar memorials in parks. So far, two memorials are installed: one in Wheaton and the newest one in Naperville at Wolf's Crossing Community Park.

Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman takes us on a spring wildflower walk in the woods. Learn about what to look for and what makes these flowers unique.

Pat Miller, a master naturalist, master gardener and conservation specialist, tells the story of the monarch butterfly, its amazing migration to and from Mexico, its plight and how everyone can help.

Steve Constantelos and Joe Suchecki from the DuPage Birding Club talk about birdwatching in the Naperville area and how to get started.

Bob Langerveld, an experienced runner, member of the Chicago Area Runners Association and staff member of Naperville Running Company, shares tips for running outdoors in winter and why he enjoys it.

Fitness instructors Karen Moranchek and Mary Sullivan and participant Kathy Leis discuss the challenges and benefits of group fitness classes on Zoom, and how virtual classes help keep us healthy during a pandemic and beyond.

Gain insights into the District’s challenges managing COVID-19 issues and successes achieved through the shifts in offerings, new programs and opportunities to provide as many recreation opportunities to residents as possible. Guests: Brad Wilson, Director of Recreation and Facilities and Andrea Coates, Superintendent of Recreation

Discussion focuses on financial challenges related to obstacles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the proactive ways the District has managed the situation. Guests: Ray McGury, Executive Director; Sue Stanish, Director of Finance

Park District staff reviews the incredible “boom” of outdoor recreation opportunities during the pandemic Guests: Kevin Carlson, Director of Golf; Tim Quigley, Director of Parks and Jackie Gonzalez, Aquatic Manager

Park District staff takes a look back at 2020 accomplishments and previews key 2021 projects. Guests: Brad Wilson, Director of Recreation and Facilities and Eric Shutes, Director of Planning

This introduction kicks off the podcast’s theme of “rising to the challenge” in addition to providing a high-level overview of the aspects to be covered in the series. Guests: Mike Reilly, Park Board President and Ray McGury, Executive Director

Instructor Maura Connor and participant Hugh Flanders discuss a new class, BIG Moves, that helps those diagnosed with Parkinson's.