To kick off Park and Recreation Month, we’ve put together a list of activities to celebrate where you belong in Highland Park! All month long, we’re highlighting the ways our community is stronger, more vibrant and more resilient because of parks and recreation.  Keep your July busy with these fun events and activities!

1. Enjoy a day at Rosewood Beach – build a sandcastle, play ball in the water, read a book and relax, the possibilities are endless under the sun!
2. Grab a paddle and play some pickleball at one of our 16 courts at Danny Cunniff Park
3. Walk the trails at Heller Nature Center – visit the beehives, play at the Wander Woods Nature Play Space, or read a book along Constance’s Story Trail
4. Take part in our Independence Day Events – a morning remembrance ceremony, an afternoon parade along a new route in Downtown Highland Park, and the return of the family friendly 4th Fest.
5. Visit the Art Exhibit at Heller Nature Center – the Art Exhibit features a new artist every few months. Observe the beautiful paintings and photographs displayed in the Prairie Room.
6. Play a game of basketball! We offer indoor Open Gym at the Recreation Center of Highland Park and have 11 outdoor parks with basketball hoops.
7. Support local vendors at the Ravinia Farmers Market – visit Jens Jensen Park every Wednesday at 7am-1pm for locally grown and sourced goods. You’ll find something new and different every week!
8. Catch a fish! We have 4 parks to go fishing – Danny Cunniff Park, Foley’s Pond, Larry Fink Memorial Park and The Preserve of Highland Park
9. Start your day in the most breathtaking way at beach yoga – enjoy yoga with a beautiful view at Rosewood Beach
10. Bring the family to River’s Edge Mini Golf – do you have what it takes to get a hole-in-one at our 18-hole mini golf course?
11. Try something new and learn to sail, kayak and paddle board at the North Shore Yacht Club
12. Too hot to be outside? Spend a few hours ice skating at Centennial Ice Arena during pubic skate at 2:40-4:10pm on Wednesdays, July 17, 24 and 31.
13. Did you know that more than 117 species of birds have been identified at The Preserve of Highland Park? Take a walk through the 100+ acre property and try to find as many birds as you can.
14. Enjoy free live music at Sunset Valley Golf Club on Friday, July 19! Bring a few friends for an evening of live entertainment featuring music by Mike Jansen!
15. Check out our Free Park Pop-Up Series! Enjoy Animals in the Park on Friday, July 12 and Concert in the Park on Sunday, July 21!
16. Practice your swing at the Highland Park Golf Learning Center – improve your golf skills, practice your game, and have fun with a club!
17. Love the outdoors? Volunteer with us! Become part of the team working to restore our natural areas – volunteers meet most Fridays at Heller Nature Center
18. Gather a group of friends/family and head to our Teams Course at Heller Nature Center – challenge yourselves through thought-provoking ground-level puzzles that can only be accomplished by all members working as a cohesive group.
19. Get fit at Aqua Fit – enjoy the warm weather and get in a great workout in the waters at Hidden Creek AquaPark.
20. Take off into outer space and play at the rocketship playground at Sunset Woods Park – this newly renovated playground is ADA compliant and has a Titanic Tides tot lot located adjacent to it
21. Wind down the night and enjoy cocktails at the new Lagos Bar & Grill at Sunset Valley Golf Club.
22. Pack a lunch and have a picnic in one of our parks – 18 out of our 44 parks has at least one picnic table. Or bring a blanket and be one with nature!
23. Find the hidden rock garden at Millard Beach. Sift and sort stones like basalt, granite, quartz, sandstone, and limestone.
24. Attend one of our events at Heller Nature Center. From Stories in the Woods to Summer Wild Edibles Walk, we have something for everyone!
25. Book a tee time at Sunset Valley Golf Club – our golf course features 18-holes and is enjoyable for every level golfer
26. Try out our two 9-hole disc golf courses located within Larry Fink Memorial Park and Danny Cunniff Park. Enjoy this fun twist on golf and frisbee!
27. Let your pups run around at our two open dog parks at Debbie Gottlieb Beitler Dog Park and Moraine Beach. Dog parks are open every day from dawn to dusk. Membership is required.
28. Get fit with a personal trainer at the Recreation Center of Highland Park – it’s never too late to get started working towards a healthier and strong you. You can also get a free 1-week trial at the Recreation Center of Highland Park!
29. Have you seen our hopscotches around our facilities? Find and hop on our hopscotches at the Recreation Center of Highland Park and Deer Creek Racquet Club!
30. Learn the rules of the road! Bring your kiddos to Safety Village behind West Ridge Center and teach them basic safety procedures when outside – includes crosswalks, stop lights and signs, what to do when there is a train, and more.  Make it more fun and bring bikes and helmets.
31. Don’t forget to register for our Fall programs on Wednesday, July 17 for residents. Save the date and register for our fun autumn events and more!

Connecting with nature is important at any age! Heller Nature Center’s programs are designed to inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature, foster environmental stewardship, and promote a healthier, more connected community. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking to explore new outdoor activities, Heller Nature Center offers something for everyone.

Check out our upcoming Adult/Adult-Friendly Programs:

Friday, July 13 • 10am-noon

Summer Wild Edibles Walk

Eat the forest! Join The Wild Dryad on a foraging tour of Heller’s woods; learn how to spot wild edibles and how best to cook them. Sample some of the plants we find on our hike.

Register

Friday, July 19 • 7-8:30pm

Nature Trivia

Join us for an evening of nature-themed trivia. Enter in teams of up to 6, or join a team of new friends on arrival. Then, compete with fellow residents to see who knows more about the ecology in our local area and beyond.

This is a BYOB event. Light snacks will be provided.

Ages 21+

Register

Sunday, August 8 • 9:30-11:30am

Honey Harvest Demo

Our honey bees have been working all summer making our famous Heller Honey. Come and experience how to harvest our honey with one of our naturalists and take home a small jar you harvested from the hives.

Register

The periodic cicadas have arrived! On this episode of Wild Insights, Mark describes the difference between periodic and annual cicadas, their molting process, and where you can see them in Highland Park!

May 1: Facility and Recreation Committee Meeting

Architects Holabird and Root presented three (3) schematic designs for the New Recreation Facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park. Staff received consensus from the Committee to use Building Option F to submit an application for design and review.

May 8: Workshop Meeting of the Park Board

The Park Board of Commissioners adopted the Beach and Boating Safety Week Proclamation declaring May 18 – 24 as Highland Park Beach and Boating Safety Week.

The Park Board of Commissioners approved the WJE Evaluation of Footings Change Order #1 and authorized the Executive Director to increase the professional services contract from $24,900 to $32,477. 

Staff provided construction project updates for the Lot 3 Paddle Facility, construction at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, locker room improvements at Deer Creek Racquet Club, improvements at Jeff Fox Baseball Field, improvements at Lincoln Park, renovation to the Playground at Upper Rosewood, renovation to the 2-5-Year-Old Playground at Larry Fink Park, and improvements at Sunset Woods Park.

There was Action from Closed Session. The Park Board of Commissioners approved a settlement agreement with a former employee.

May 13: Finance and Recreation Committee Meeting

Architects Holabird and Root reviewed the design and review application for the New Recreation Facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park. The Facility and Recreation Committee were pleased with the rendering and schematic design which will be submitted in the application.

May 14: Finance Committee Meeting

Sikich, LLP presented a draft of the Park District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. 

Staff reviewed the bid results for the 2024 Recreation Center Pool Ceiling Painting project, 2024 Cunniff Park 2-5 Playground Resurfacing-Fence Improvements project, 2024 Roof Improvements projects, and the 2024 Deer Creek Racquet Club Parking Lot Improvements project.

Staff reviewed a services proposal with L6 Technology It Support.

Staff shared a fundraising update for the Jeff Fox Baseball Field Campaign.

The City of Highland Park is currently renovating the Highland Park Senior Center. The Park District and City of Highland Park planned to renovate the shared parking lot in 2025. The Park District received an estimated cost from the City of Highland Park for the shared project, and the estimate was significantly higher than anticipated.

May 22: Annual Meeting of the Park Board

Commissioner Bernstein was elected for President of the Park Board and Commissioner Freeman was elected for Vice President.

Executive Director Romes was appointed as Secretary to the Park Board, Coordinator Hejnowski was appointed as Assistant Secretary acting under the general supervisor of the Secretary, Director Peters was appointed as Treasurer, Director Hall was appointed as the District’s IMRF authorized agent, Executive Director Romes, Director Hall, and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officers, Executive Director Romes and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Open Meetings Act (OMA) Officers, Executive Director Romes was appointed as the American With Disabilities Act Coordinator (ADA), Sikich, LLP was appointed as the District’s auditor, and Ancel Glink was appointed as the District’s attorney.

May 22: Regular Meeting of the Park Board

The Park Board of Commissioners approved Ordinance 2024-06 providing for the issue of not to exceed $6,445,000 General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, Series 2024, of the Park District of  Highland Park, Lake County, Illinois, for the payment of land for parks, for the building,  maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and the existing land and facilities of said Park District and for the payment of the expenses incident thereto, providing for the levy of a direct annual tax to pay the principal and interest on said bonds, and authorizing the sale of said bonds to the purchaser thereof, the 2024 Recreation Center Pool Ceiling Painting Bid, the 2024 Roof Improvements Project Bid, the 2024 Deer Creek Racquet Club Parking Lot Improvements Bid, the 2024 Cunniff Park 2-5 Playground Resurfacing-Fence Improvements Project Bid, and the L6 Technology IT Support Services Proposal.

Staff presented a 5-year athletic trends analysis, comparing female and male participation figures.

In our third and final installment of Parks in Mind, a video series in collaboration with Endeavor Health that explores mental health and recreation, Dr. Fazio and Kyle answer the following questions:

• Are there different types of stress? How can someone tell if their stress is a problem?
• What are the best ways to manage stress?
• What mindfulness techniques can people use to promote their emotional well-being?

Lindsay T. Fazio, PhD is the System Director of Wellbeing & Vitality for Endeavor Health. Her role is to develop and drive the strategic plan to bring wellbeing to each and every team member no matter their role or responsibility within the organization.

She received her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana State University. She completed her residency in medical psychology at St. James Hospital and Health Centers. Dr. Fazio’s passion is promoting wellness began 20 years ago teaching physicians and physicians-in-training. She works with departments and health systems nationally to monitor burnout provide a programatic series of strengths-based interventions to promote resiliency and engagement across all members of the healthcare team.

Kyle Kovski, LCSW is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of individuals within Endeavor Health. His dual role as the Wellbeing Support Advisor and System R.I.S.E. Clinical Coordinator showcases his commitment to fostering resilience and creating a supportive culture within the organization.

With his educational background in Social Work, Kyle brings a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health to his role. His clinical experience across different age groups and symptomatology provides him with a nuanced perspective on addressing the diverse needs of individuals. Kyle’s focus on supporting medical professionals is especially impactful, given his firsthand experience in Family Medicine Residency programs support Behavioral Health Education. He recognizes the unique challenges individuals are faced with daily and advocates for the importance of stress management and resilience techniques in mitigating the impact of trauma.

By drawing from his expertise in trauma and emphasizing the importance of holistic wellbeing, Kyle empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. His efforts not only benefit the individuals he directly supports but also contribute to creating a culture of support and resilience within Endeavor Health.

• Mental Health America
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services America (SAMHSA)
• Highland Park Public Library – Trauma Resources
• District 112 – Social and Emotional Learning Resources

Summer is a season of boundless possibilities, and what better way to embrace its warmth and vibrancy than by indulging in the myriad of free events and experiences offered by your Park District? 

Below is a listing of our FREE summer events.  Additional low-cost events are located on our calendar on the homepage of this website and on our social media channels.  Once you have identified events that pique your interest, mark them by clicking on the “Add to Calendar” links on each event’s page. Or, better yet, download the Park District app that allows you to build your own favorite events calendar.

Diversify Your Experience: The beauty of Park District events lies in our diversity. From nature programs and concerts in the parks to fitness classes and drop-in events, there’s something for everyone. Mix and match your activities to keep your summer vibrant and engaging.

Embrace Nature: Summer is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Take advantage of the Park District’s green spaces, trails, and recreational facilities. Whether you’re picnicking in the park, kayaking on the lake, or simply relaxing on the beach, let nature be your sanctuary.

Engage with the Community: Park District events are not just about recreation; they’re also about fostering community bonds. Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, participate in group activities, and embrace the spirit of camaraderie that these events inspire.

Try Something New: Summer is a season of exploration and self-discovery. Use Park District events as an opportunity to try new things. Whether it’s learning a new dance style, mastering a new sport, or delving into a new hobby, let your curiosity be your guide.

Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: As you bask in the summer sun, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Carry a reusable water bottle, apply sunscreen liberally, and seek shade during peak sun hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Capture Memories: Don’t forget to capture the magic of summer with photos and videos. Document your adventures, from laughter-filled picnics to awe-inspiring sunsets, and cherish these memories for years to come.

Give Back: Consider giving back to your community by volunteering at Park District events or making a donation to our Parks Foundation, your contribution can make a meaningful difference.

Spread the Word: Finally, share your enthusiasm for Park District events with friends, family, and neighbors. By spreading the word, you not only encourage others to join in the fun but also contribute to the collective joy and vibrancy of your community.

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to embark on a summer filled with adventure, connection, and endless possibilities—all at your local Park District. So go ahead, soak up the sunshine, embrace the warmth of the season, and make this summer one to remember! 

In our second installment of Parks in Mind, a video series in collaboration with Endeavor Health that explores mental health and recreation, Dr. Fazio and Kyle answer the following questions:

• How do environmental factors, such as access to the outdoors and natural settings, influence emotional well-being?
• The surgeon general recently declared that the United States is amid a loneliness epidemic. What are some steps that we can take to create a healthier social network and stave off loneliness? 

Lindsay T. Fazio, PhD is the System Director of Wellbeing & Vitality for Endeavor Health. Her role is to develop and drive the strategic plan to bring wellbeing to each and every team member no matter their role or responsibility within the organization.

She received her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana State University. She completed her residency in medical psychology at St. James Hospital and Health Centers. Dr. Fazio’s passion is promoting wellness began 20 years ago teaching physicians and physicians-in-training. She works with departments and health systems nationally to monitor burnout provide a programatic series of strengths-based interventions to promote resiliency and engagement across all members of the healthcare team.

Kyle Kovski, LCSW is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of individuals within Endeavor Health. His dual role as the Wellbeing Support Advisor and System R.I.S.E. Clinical Coordinator showcases his commitment to fostering resilience and creating a supportive culture within the organization.

With his educational background in Social Work, Kyle brings a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health to his role. His clinical experience across different age groups and symptomatology provides him with a nuanced perspective on addressing the diverse needs of individuals. Kyle’s focus on supporting medical professionals is especially impactful, given his firsthand experience in Family Medicine Residency programs support Behavioral Health Education. He recognizes the unique challenges individuals are faced with daily and advocates for the importance of stress management and resilience techniques in mitigating the impact of trauma.

By drawing from his expertise in trauma and emphasizing the importance of holistic wellbeing, Kyle empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. His efforts not only benefit the individuals he directly supports but also contribute to creating a culture of support and resilience within Endeavor Health.

• Mental Health America
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services America (SAMHSA)
• Highland Park Public Library – Trauma Resources
• District 112 – Social and Emotional Learning Resources

Moody’s Ratings (Moody’s) has assigned a Aaa to the Park District of Highland Park, IL’s General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, Series 2024 with a proposed par amount of $6.4 million. Moody’s maintains the district’s Aaa issuer rating and the Aaa rating on the district’s outstanding general obligation limited tax (GOLT) debt. Following the sale, the district will have about $33 million of debt outstanding.

RATINGS RATIONALE
The Aaa issuer rating reflects a large and affluent tax base that benefits from its location near Chicago. The district’s financial position will likely remain strong, supported by growing property tax revenue, sustained increases in program participation, and prudent budget management. Unaudited fiscal 2023 (year-end Dec. 31) results show an increase in fund balance following transfers to a capital project fund and year to date results for fiscal 2024 show mostly stable operations. The district’s long-term leverage will remain modest with no additional debt plans over the next two years.

The Aaa rating on the GOLT bonds is the same as the district’s Aaa issuer rating because of its pledge of all available funds to pay debt service and authority to levy an ad valorem tax that is unlimited as to rate but limited in amount by the district debt service extension base (DSEB).

RATING OUTLOOK
Moody’s typically does not assign outlooks to local governments with this amount of debt.

FACTORS THAT COULD LEAD TO AN UPGRADE OF THE RATING

• Not applicable

FACTORS THAT COULD LEAD TO A DOWNGRADE OF THE RATING

• Narrowing of available operating fund balance materially below 25% of revenue
• Long-term leverage growing to levels closer to 3% of full value

LEGAL SECURITY
The district’s GOLT bonds are backed by an all available funds pledge of the district and its authority to levy ad valorem property taxes unlimited as to rate but limited by the amount of the district’s Debt Service Extension Base.

USE OF PROCEEDS
Proceeds will fund various facility improvements across the park district’s facilities.

PROFILE
The Park District of Highland Park encompasses the City of Highland Park (Aaa stable) and a small portion of the Village of Deerfield (Aaa stable) and is located about 26 miles north of the City of Chicago (Baa3 positive). The district provides various recreational services to over 30,000 residents.

Walter the Raccoon seems to have left behind some items in our parks, can you help find them?

Each day this week, Walter will leave a clue here (and on our Facebook) about which park he’s visited. When you find Walter with the item left behind at one of our parks, scan the QR code to see what fun activity you can do and enter our drawing to win prizes and a gift card!

Introducing Parks in Mind, a conversation exploring mental health and recreation in collaboration with Endeavor Health. In this video series, two mental health professionals come together for an informed discussion on mental health and emotional wellbeing, Parks and Recreation’s important role in mental health, coping with challenges and stress, the benefits of social connection, and more.

In this video, Dr. Fazio and Kyle answer the following questions:

• How do you define mental health and emotional well-being?
• What are some common misconceptions about mental health that you encounter in your practice?
• What role do social connections and relationships play in maintaining good emotional health?

Lindsay T. Fazio, PhD is the System Director of Wellbeing & Vitality for Endeavor Health. Her role is to develop and drive the strategic plan to bring wellbeing to each and every team member no matter their role or responsibility within the organization.

She received her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana State University. She completed her residency in medical psychology at St. James Hospital and Health Centers. Dr. Fazio’s passion is promoting wellness began 20 years ago teaching physicians and physicians-in-training. She works with departments and health systems nationally to monitor burnout provide a programatic series of strengths-based interventions to promote resiliency and engagement across all members of the healthcare team.

Kyle Kovski, LCSW is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of individuals within Endeavor Health. His dual role as the Wellbeing Support Advisor and System R.I.S.E. Clinical Coordinator showcases his commitment to fostering resilience and creating a supportive culture within the organization.

With his educational background in Social Work, Kyle brings a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health to his role. His clinical experience across different age groups and symptomatology provides him with a nuanced perspective on addressing the diverse needs of individuals. Kyle’s focus on supporting medical professionals is especially impactful, given his firsthand experience in Family Medicine Residency programs support Behavioral Health Education. He recognizes the unique challenges individuals are faced with daily and advocates for the importance of stress management and resilience techniques in mitigating the impact of trauma.

By drawing from his expertise in trauma and emphasizing the importance of holistic wellbeing, Kyle empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. His efforts not only benefit the individuals he directly supports but also contribute to creating a culture of support and resilience within Endeavor Health.

• Mental Health America
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services America (SAMHSA)
• Highland Park Public Library – Trauma Resources
• District 112 – Social and Emotional Learning Resources