Dear Residents,
New Staff – In early May, the Park District hired two new Recreation Supervisors. Zach Miller joined our team as the Aquatics Supervisor and will also oversee teen, adult activities, and trips. Zach comes to the District with ten years of experience at the Arlington Heights Park District, starting off as a swim lesson instructor/lifeguard and working his way up the ladder to become a pool manager.
Shane Bonner came to the District from an internship with the South Elgin High School Athletic Department and a lifelong love for athletics. Shane played baseball collegiately at Judson University. At the Park District, Shane will supervise our athletic programs, fitness programs, Fitness First facility, and affiliate groups.
Employee Recognition – It was a goal of mine, when I became the Director of the Park District, to implement an employee recognition program. The success of our organization depends on the front-line staff that you see in our parks and teaching recreation classes at the Community Center. While some of the jobs we offer are often the first experiences in the workforce, we also have many retirees, homemakers, and individuals who make the park district their primary job. Employees who work for the District in five-year increments will be recognized quarterly at a Board Meeting. This past quarter the following individuals were recognized at our June 11 meeting. Thank you all for your service and dedication.
- JoAnn Freeman, Marketing Coordinator, 5 years
- Richard Stevens, Parkman, 5 years
- Jennifer Reed, Dance Instructor, 5 years
- Dave Schwarz, Parkman, 15 Years
- Sue Ulrich, CLUB and Camp Counselor, 15 years
- Kathy Norris, Preschool Teacher, 30 years
Thank You – I wanted to send a “huge” thank you to all the volunteers who assisted with Wauconda Fest and the annual Triathlons this summer. These events are a big undertaking for our District and we wouldn’t be able to have these events without the hundreds of you who volunteer every summer. Thank you for being a part of our team and representing the commitment to community that I have grown to appreciate in Wauconda. There is no other place like it.
I also wanted to thank all the government agencies that assisted us with these events. The Village of Wauconda, Public Works, Wauconda Police Department, Wauconda Township, CERT, School District 118, Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce, Wauconda Area Library, and Wauconda Fire District all provide logistical support, manpower, and expertise that allow us to continue to offer a great experience for our Festgoers and athletes. The Park District appreciates the partnerships that we have formed over the years and hope that we can continue to work together for the betterment of our community.
Osage Park – In early June, the redevelopment of Osage Park began. We hope to complete this project in early fall, so our residents can enjoy the new amenities prior to the weather changing for the winter. New amenities at the park include Pickleball courts, pavement soccer, fitness stations, a new playground, a rain garden, new landscape, and benches to sit back and take it all in. You can see the rendering below for more details.
As always, thank you all for your continued support. I hope to see you out at one of our parks, programs, or special events this fall. Enjoy the Fall season and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Sincerely,
Tim Staton, CPRP
Executive Director
(847) 526-3610
