Parktalk Podcast

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.

Golfer Jon Lee and his daughter, Abby, tell how golfing enriched their lives this summer during the pandemic. Director of Golf Kevin Carlson reflects on the growth of golf at Naperville Park District's two courses and the challenges of operating during COVID-19.

Recreation Superintendent Ted Adatto from Western DuPage Special Recreation Association tells how special recreation programs are helping individuals with disabilities to reconnect with their community during the pandemic.

Tennis program coordinator Meredith Pollack explains why tennis is a great sport to play or try for the first time during the pandemic.

Rotary Hill and the Paddleboat Quarry have become an oasis in the pandemic. Ray McGury tells how the new Midday Spray came about, and we talk with families enjoying the water at these favorite locations.

Naper Settlement, Naperville's unique outdoor history museum, is planning an exciting new interpretive center that will showcase Naperville’s farming heritage. Guests Rena Tamayo-Calabrese, Donna Sack and Jeanne Schultz Angel explain how the center will help tie farming from the past to agriculture of today and tomorrow.

Guests Ginny Wolf Chivas, Jerry Kuhn and Ed Kuhn recall life on Ginny’s grandparents’ farm in the 1950s and 60s in Naperville. The conversation touches on some of the themes from an interpretive sign that will honor Naperville’s farming history at Wolf’s Crossing Community Park, a new park under construction in 2020.

Norma Yackley Yeates shares her experiences growing up on a farm in Naperville from the 1930s to early 1950s and Ginny Wolf Chivas adds her perspective as a lifelong friend of Norma's and member of a farm family with a 170 year history in Naperville.

Guest Pam White, former owner of Wagner Farms in Naperville, Illinois, recalls growing up on the farm, favorite memories, and lessons that apply to suburban life today.

Mary Beth Falsey, water quality supervisor at DuPage County Stormwater Management, discusses county-wide programs and projects to improve water quality in our rivers and streams.

Jennifer Hammer, director of watershed programs for The Conservation Foundation, explains regional efforts to improve water quality and habitat in the DuPage River, mentioning both success stories and challenges. Learn how you can help at www.napervilleparks.org/podcasts.