Gurnee Park District Tree & Park Bench Dedication Program
5 Reasons to Donate a Tree or Park Bench
Take a walk in many of our parks, and you may notice a small inscription at the foot of a tree or on the back of a park bench. While the inscriptions vary, they all share one thing in common: they are part of our Tree and Park Bench Dedication Program. Gurnee Park District’sTree and Park Bench Dedication Program takes place each year, offering community residents, park goers, and others the ability to purchase a gift that keeps giving – a growing tree or a lasting park bench.
These timeless tributes signify the memory of loved ones, celebrate life’s milestones (anniversaries, weddings, significant birthdays), and honor remarkable individuals who have left a lasting impact. They are small (or giant) reminders of lives well lived and the kindnesses bestowed upon others. And they stand, proudly within our parks for all parkgoers to enjoy.
Why should you be a part of this program in 2025? Here are the top 5 reasons to donate a tree or bench this upcoming year!
1. YOU PICK, WE MAINTAIN
Did the person(s) you want to honor enjoy a certain park location? Is there a specific park location that holds meaningful memories to you? Trees and park benches are available for many of our 28 park locations! Once a park is chosen, our team will work closely with you to determine the perfect resting place within the park.
After your tree is planted and/or park bench placed, you can rest assured. Our team will continue to maintain throughout the years, including watering, mowing, weeding, and more so that your donation can be enjoyed by not only you and your family, but all who pass by.
2. VARIETY OF TREES TO CHOOSE FROM
From big, shady oaks to towering pines, we offer a variety of trees to choose from. Pick the type of tree that is right for you and holds that special significance to your loved ones, friends, or neighbors in which you are dedicating the tree.
Park benches ordered through our Dedication Program are built to withstand outdoor elements, such as rain, snow, wind, and whatever else the Midwest weather throws our way. These sturdy benches provide a place to reflect when honoring or remembering your loved ones, and they are placed in the location that means the most to you.
Trees provide many benefits, such as the promotion of mental wellbeing, increased oxygen, wildlife habitats, shade, and, of course, beautiful scenery. By choosing to be a part of our Tree Dedication Program, you are choosing to play a part in enriching our parks, as well as contributing to the health and beauty of the Gurnee community.
Finally, when you donate a tree or bench, you are not only honoring the person it was chosen for, but you are impacting the entire community. Current and future generations will be able to watch the growth, sit down and reflect, or learn of the impact, story, or occasion of your dedicated tree or bench. It’s a gift that continues to give for years to come!
Summer has come to a close, which means fall is officially here! After a busy summer, the arrival of fall is always a welcoming time, especially when the air gets a little cooler (hopefully soon?), the leaves start to show off their vibrant hues of amber and gold, and every walk outside becomes a peaceful yet cozy adventure. As we transition towards this amazing time of year, I am excited to share with you some of the ways you can make the most of fall here at Gurnee Park District.
Stepping outside this season, you will find that around every corner of our 28 parks, there’s a spot for you to enjoy all that fall has to offer. Whether traversing one of our 14 walking paths, watching the sunrise on a quiet morning, or spending time with your little ones on one of our many playgrounds, our parks offer a safe and scenic setting to create lasting memories of fun all season long.
Fitness, as always, remains a year-round priority at Gurnee Park District, and we offer a variety of ways to support your health goals this fall. If you enjoy being outdoors, sign up for our FREE GO Gurnee Walking Club. With weekly meetings every Saturday throughout the year, our Walking Club provides an opportunity to enjoy the autumn surroundings, while logging in some extra miles. As the temperatures drop, head on over to our indoor fitness facility, FitNation. With over 50 group exercise classes, two convenient locations, and countless amenities, FitNation makes it easy to tackle your fitness goals any day of the week.
The excitement of fall also marks a special time for growth and learning. It was so exciting to welcome back the return of our Growing Tree Preschool and Before/After School CARE participants. Throughout the year, students are provided meaningful lessons, activities, and all the fun that makes our programs the first step towards a love for learning. Along with the start of our school programs, we are also pleased to continue to offer our indoor swim lessons, youth basketball leagues, dance classes, and many other flexible and cost-effective options.
In addition to our facilities and program offerings, we will also be hosting a variety of fun events for all ages to enjoy. Celebrate the beauty of fall at “Halloween Fall Fest” on Saturday, October 12. This family event, originally held at Viking Park, will now be hosted at our Hunt Club Park Community Center and will include all things fall – hayrides, “Trick-or-Treating,” crafts, games, kids entertainment shows, food trucks, and MORE! As fall continues, don’t forget to sign up for events such as “Family Art Night,” “Breakfast with Santa,” and our popular “Arctic Express” train ride!
Finally, as I reflect on the year gone by, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to all of our staff, volunteers, members, and community. Thank you for all the work you do on a daily basis, for your time and contributions to programs and events, and for continuing to choose Gurnee Park District. I am truly honored to serve you.
Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP Executive Director
September 2024
Gurnee Park District Newsletter
They say summer is fleeting, and this year was no different. Summer brought plenty of excitement here at Gurnee Park District, whether it was soaking up the sun at the Aquatic Center, enjoying live music at our Sounds of Summer series, watching fireworks at Gurnee Days, or even taking to the courts for a game of pickleball! While it may be hard to say goodbye to those long, carefree summer nights, fall is right around the corner and promises to bring plenty of enjoyment, too!
This fall, take time to get outside and visit one of our 28 parks, attend a special event, try a new program, and so much more!
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING SEASON!
The Hunt Club Aquatic Center is now closed for the 2024 season. Thank you to all who helped make it such a success! We hope to see everyone back in 2025!
Looking for more swimming fun year-round? We offer indoor swim lessons through Gurnee Park District’s Swim School, located at the FitNation indoor pool on Nations Drive!
Parents – spend a night out while we take care of the kids! Parents Night Out events at Gurnee Park District include an evening of fun, age-appropriate activities for children ages 1 -11* such as games, crafts, sports, and more! A dinner of cheese pizza, juice, and water will be provided.
*Children 1-3 years old will have separate activities.
Join us at Bittersweet Golf Course for “Bonfire and Brews: A Taste of Gurnee”! Unwind by the fire enjoying the live music of Matt Nanke while sampling the flavors of local food vendors and sipping on adult beverages! Continue the fun by competing with friends at Axe Throwing, bags, giant games, and more!
Drinks and food will be available for purchase from local vendors at this adult-only event!
Wag your tails while honoring our nation’s heroes! Join us at Viking Park for a paw-some, Veteran-themed FREE GO Gurnee Walkin’ & Waggin’ event! Our Veteran-themed dog walk is the perfect opportunity to show your furry friend some love while also paying tribute to those who have served our country. Leash up your pup, meet with members of Reach Rescue of Mundelein, and receive some FREE pet-friendly GO Gurnee swag (while supplies last). See you there!
Sunday, September 29 9:00-10:30am Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue
Fall officially begins Sunday, September 22 here in Gurnee, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore! From unique and inviting playgrounds, to adventures out on one of our 14 trails, our 28 parks provide a quick escape to nature for any age! And the best part? Most of our parks are within walking distance of many Gurnee Park District residents! Get outside today!
Mark your calendars for added fall fun next month!
HALLOWEEN FALL FEST – 10/12
Gather the family and get ready to celebrate the beauty of fall! The Gurnee Park District, in partnership with the Village of Gurnee, is set to host its annual “ Halloween Family Fall Festival” at Hunt Club Park Community Center on Saturday, October 12 (1:00-4:00pm)!
From fall favorites such as hayrides, carnival games, crafts, DJ, and entertainment, along with Halloween-themed activities like our infamous “Trick or Treat Path,” “Mad Science Slime Lab,” “glow-in-the-dark ghost busting”, and pumpkin bounce house, participants of all ages will find FUN around every corner!
*Children must be accompanied by an adult 16 years or older; adults are free.
This event is proudly sponsored by our friends at:
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
NEW! Trades & Construction Supervisor (FT) NEW! Cultural Arts Supervisor (FT) Customer Service & Rental Coordinator (FT) Grounds Maintenance II (FT) Facility Maintenance I (PT) & II (FT) Member Services Supervisor – Hunt Club (FT) Preschool Teacher (PT) and MORE!
Stay up-to-date with the latest park happenings! From reminders to recaps, program news, and more, we’re always sharing! Stay in the know and follow us today!
That’s all for now! Have a great month. We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
Growing Tree Preschool
Tips for First Day Success
There is a hustle and bustle going on in the halls of Gurnee Park District’s Growing Tree Preschool wings these days! Our staff are eagerly prepping their classrooms and daily schedules as they prepare to meet their new students!
Classes begin the week of August 26th and we are all excited here at Gurnee Park District to welcome a new school year and new friends! With that said, here are a few reminders as well as some tips and tricks to deal with those first day emotions that may arise.
Children attending Growing Tree Preschool should bring or wear:
A backpack with a full change of clothing and a jacket or sweatshirt
A reusable water bottle half filled with water (don’t forget to label!)
Lunch and snacks (for full-day preschool students only)
Comfortable clothing that is easy to manage in the bathroom and that can withstand the occasional artistic messiness
Gym shoes rather than sandals, flip flops or Crocs, which are dangerous on playground equipment and woodchip surfaces
The first days of preschool are an exciting time for parents and children, but they can also bring about some mixed emotions. Some tips and tricks to help your child ease into the start of the school year are:
Read books together about going to school and the emotions that may come with it (view reading suggestions below)
Establish a healthy bedtime routine so your child is well-rested each school day
Provide a healthy breakfast before the school day begins (Pro-tip: let your child pick out a special breakfast option at the store prior to the first day of school!)
Separation anxiety? Learn how to combat those first day and/or first week jitters here!
Empty your child’s backpack and home/school folder together
Ask your child how they made the art project
Compliment your child’s effort to write their name and practice at home
Have your child sing a new song that they learned at school
Tell your child how proud you are of them and what they have accomplished
As parents, we also go through a mixture of emotions. We are excited that our children are learning new things and meeting new friends, but there is also a yearning for them to stay little and by our sides. Some reminders to help ease yourself through this transition are:
Know that your child’s ability to be independent in a classroom setting enhances the parent/child bond.
You will enjoy hearing about the exciting new things your child will learn and fun new experiences.
Preschool is an opportunity for parents to meet other parents and form lasting friendships.
Finally, set up a coffee date, run an errand, enjoy a quiet walk in thepark, or take a workout class. Use this time to focus on YOU, because when you are at ease, so are they.
Have a former preschool student? What tips and tricks would YOU suggest to make the first day a success?
Managed by Aquatic Facility Manager, Diane DeLorenzo and Aquatics Coordinator, Amanda Kochenash, as well as their team of seasoned Pool Managers, each summer, these unsung heroes ensure that every jump, dive, and swim is conducted with the utmost safety in mind, and they do so with a profound sense of responsibility.
These guards, though they may look young, are some of the most experienced and well-trained first responders in our community. Daily, they demonstrate physical and mental readiness through a variety of skills and abilities, such as discipline, endurance, and vigilance. When we say nothing gets past them, we mean nothing. Their rigorous training prepares them for any aquatic emergency that may arise.
Certified through the world leader in Aquatic Safety, Jeff Ellis and Associates International Lifeguard Training Program, all lifeguards at Gurnee Park District have mastered a range of emergency response skills from water rescues to health care provider level CPR, first aid, AED, and emergency oxygen administration. In addition, their strength and endurance are tested through weekly training and in-pool drills, which involve swimming, diving, and treading water under demanding conditions.
On active duty, lifeguards are in constant motion, vigilantly rotating through multiple zones to monitor and respond to any risks. The “10/20” rule, developed by Ellis & Associates, is strictly adhered to, which mandates a standard where lifeguards must be able to spot and reach a guest in distress within seconds.
Gurnee Park District lifeguards share a commitment to safety and their passion and willingness to help others at all costs is unmatched. Please take a moment the next time you visit the Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center to thank these unsung heroes – your Guardians of the Water.
Gurnee Park District
2024 Seasonal Employee of the Year
This year, we are proud to present the 2024 “Seasonal Employee of the Year” Award to Jourdan Baldwin-Sylvester.
Jourdan began working for Gurnee Park District as a Day Camp Counselor in 2015. Since then, she has returned nearly every summer and is currently positioned as the Sports Camp Site Director.
As a day camp counselor, Jordan brought fun to her campers and the Gurnee Park District Summer Camp program, always with a smile on her face and a positive attitude no matter the situation. Working mainly with the Step Into Sports and Sports Campers, Jourdan showed great awareness in understanding the importance of treating all campers with differing athletic abilities equally. Not only did she prove to be a great counselor, but as years passed, she showed great leadership and poise to take on the role of Site Director.
For many years, Jordan worked as the Site Director for Step into Sports Camp. There, she created an atmosphere where staff felt respected and children felt heard. Her ability to talk with parents and campers when challenging situations arise, adapt to campers’ and team member’s individual needs, and teach the importance of sportsmanship truly reflects the great leader she is. As a high school teacher in Kenosha, Jourdan also brings her classroom experience to our summer camps. She is highly organized, motivated, and truly embodies Gurnee Park District’s SOFIE values.
This summer, before the start of camp, Jourdan was asked to make the switch from Step Into Sports Camp to work as the Sports Camp Site Director. While this would be a new role for her, Jourdan did not hesitate, saying, “Wherever you need me is where I will go.” Her adaptability, positive mindset, and leadership qualities, along with many other reasons, are why Jourdan has been awarded the Seasonal Employee of the Year Award.
Please take a moment to congratulate Jourdan on this well-deserved achievement!
Gurnee Park District
Welcome NEW Director of Recreation, Melissa Marsh
Gurnee, Illinois – July 22, 2024. Gurnee Park District is excited to announce and welcome its new Director of Recreation, Melissa Marsh, CPRP.
Melissa Marsh joins Gurnee Park District with a wealth of experience in the field of parks and recreation. Most recently, Marsh served as Division Director of Recreation and Museum Services at Glenview Park District, where she oversaw and supported the district’s comprehensive recreation and aquatics department, as well as the district’s museums: The Grove, Historic Wagner Farm, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, and Schram Memorial Chapel. Prior to working in Glenview, Marsh was the Director of Parks and Recreation with the Village of Lincolnwood, where she managed parks and facilities, recreation programs, special events, community partnerships, and capital improvement projects. Her background also includes serving National Gold Medal Award-winning and Distinguished Agency Accredited communities such as the Park District of Oak Park, Fox Valley Park District, and Homewood-Flossmoor Park District.
Marsh holds a master’s degree in public administration from Governors State University and a bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism from the University of Illinois. She is a graduate of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Revenue Development and Management School and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) Leadership Academy. She is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
Throughout her time working in the field, Marsh has admired the many ways in which the Gurnee Park District builds community and creates a fun environment where people of all ages can grow. “I’m thrilled to be joining the Gurnee Park District and am excited to work with the team to continue providing innovative programs and services in support of the district’s mission,” shared Marsh. “I am passionate about parks and recreation, both as a professional and in my personal life.” Outside of the office, Marsh enjoys being outdoors exploring parks and trails.
Gurnee Park District looks forward to having Marsh join the team. “We are pleased to welcome Melissa on board,” shared Executive Director, Susie Kuruvilla. “Her contributions will play an integral role in our continued growth and ability to provide exceptional services to our community.”
Happy Retirement
Cheers to 24 Years, Sue McDougle!
It is with bittersweet emotions that we announce the retirement of Sue McDougle, our Interim Director of Recreation. Over her 24 years of service, Sue has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on not only Gurnee Park District, but the Gurnee community as a whole. Many of you may have had the pleasure of meeting Sue over the years, perhaps when your children attended our Growing Tree Preschool classes, through our various youth and adult programs, out and about at community events, or simply by visiting our facilities. No matter how you met Sue, we’re certain her warmth, care, and unwavering commitment to our community left a lasting impression.
Over these past two-plus decades, Sue has been a part of many notable accomplishments within our District, including the NRPA Gold Medal achievement of 2010, the construction and opening of the Hunt Club Park Community Center, many successful Gurnee Days festivals, as well as the growth of our youth programs, including Before & After School CARE, Growing Tree Preschool, and summer camps. In addition to Gurnee Park District accomplishments, Sue also created an impact in the field of Parks and Recreation having served on multiple Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) committees, graduating from Park District Risk Management Agency’s (PDRMA) Risk Management Institute, serving as a Lake County Early Learning Coalition member (10 years), and as a member on the Early Education and Teaching Advisory Board (2 years).
Beyond these impressive accomplishments, what perhaps stands most memorable is Sue’s ability to foster genuine connections with families in the Gurnee community as well as the mentorship of many talented and successful educators and staff members.
As Sue turns this page, we reflect not just on her milestones and achievements, but the countless moments of joy, guidance, and support she has bestowed upon us all. In her 24 years, we thank Sue for truly embodying everything that is Gurnee Park District: a safe, warm, and welcoming space for all.
Cheers to you, Sue, for everything. We wish you all the best in your retirement!
July 12, 2024
2024 Gurnee Days Honoree – Kathy Blair
The Gurnee Days Committee is proud to announce longtime Gurnee resident, Kathy Blair, as the 2024 Gurnee Days Honoree.
Kathy Blair has been a resident of Gurnee since 1988 when she and her late husband, Troy, bought their first home. Early on, Kathy dedicated her time to raising her two children, Kevin and Cassidy, volunteering and attending Village Church of Gurnee, assisting in classrooms at Woodland School District, and completing her education degree.
After teaching for many years at Woodland Middle School, Kathy found herself with a new business opportunity. Inspired by a business model and culture that aligned with her and her family’s goals and beliefs, Kathy and her husband Troy opened their own “Nothing Bundt Cakes” storefront, which has brought joy to the Gurnee community since 2018.
Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Kathy’s heart for service led her to partner with over 40 non-profit organizations, further enriching our community through involvement with the Gurnee Women’s Business Association, Gurnee Exchange Club, and other local groups.
Despite the sad loss of her husband Troy in March of 2024, Kathy’s resilience and gratitude for the support and stability he provided remains unshaken, fueling her passion for giving back to the community that has given her so much.
Kathy Blair’s commitment and impact to the Gurnee community will be celebrated at the Gurnee Days annual testimonial reception on Friday, August 9, 2024 at Warren Township Center. In addition, Blair will serve as the Grand Marshall of the Gurnee Days parade on Sunday August 11.
See what's new!
Gurnee Park District Newsletter - July 2024
Summer is officially here, and we’re off to a great start! As we begin July, we’re excited for continued sunny days and all the fun that summer brings. Make sure to get outside and make the most of this fleeting, yet memorable season!
See below for our July happenings here at Gurnee Park District!
MAKE A SPLASH AT THE AQUATIC CENTER!
The Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center is NOW open! Enjoy fun all summer long!
*Don’t forget to check Rainout Line for all weather-related updates!
MONTHLY MIXER – 7/12
NEW summer location: Gurnee Community Church | 4555 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL. 60031
Wear your red, white & blue to our “America the Beautiful” celebration. The afternoon begins with a lunch of ham sandwiches on croissant rolls with Swiss cheese, lettuce & tomato, pasta salad, and chips and dessert. Then sit back as we listen to the melodies of America from NY to LA and every stop in between plus patriotic favorites sung by “Ludy & his Lady”.
Registration deadline: 7/8
Friday, July 12 – 11:30am-1:00pm *Doors open: 11:00am/lunch service begins at 11:30am
Grab your fishing poles – we’re teaming up with our favorite local heroes from the Gurnee Police Department for our FREE Cops & Bobbers Fishing Event!
Officers and Gurnee Park District staff will be onsite throughout the event to help reel in the biggest catch, create fun crafts, announce raffles, and MORE!
Please note: while we will provide a limited number of fishing poles and bait on a first-come, first-served basis, we encourage you to bring your favorite rod to ensure everyone gets a chance to participate in the fun.
This event is designed with young anglers in mind, welcoming children ages 5 -15 years old.
Wednesday, July 31 5:30 – 7:30pm *check-in from 5:00-5:30pm Hunt Club Park (at the pond)
*A waiver must be signed for all participants by a parent/guardian prior to fishing.
July 23: Sounds of Summer Children’s Series: “Miss Jamie and the Farm Hands” at Viking Park (10:30-11:15am) * We’re proud to partner with our friends at Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. Forest Orthodontics & Pediatrics’ SMILE Ice Cream Truck will be onsite! The team will be serving up FREE, sweet treats to guests (while supplies last)!
July 25: Sounds of Summer Evening Concert – “Chicago Tribute Band” at Viking Park (7:00-8:30pm) *thank you to our sponsor, Old National Bank, for making this event possible!
Special thank you to the Gurnee Exchange Club, who will be onsite for our evening concerts selling concessions!
FALL REGISTRATION – 7/16
It may only be July, but we are already gearing up for FALL FUN!
Mark your calendars – fall registration for fall events, programs, and more opens Tuesday, July 16 at 7:00am! View our Fall Program & Events Guide online beginning Monday, July 8th!
JULY 4th HOURS
Happy July 4th to all! We hope you enjoy this day of independence and joy with family and friends!
Please note that our facilities will be operating under the following holiday hours:
7/4 – Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center: OPEN 11:00am – 7:00pm
7/4 – Hunt Club Park Community Center: CLOSED
7/4 – FitNation on Nations Drive: OPEN 7:00am – 12:00pm
7/4 & 7/5 Viking Park Community Center: CLOSED
Looking to get outside? Our parks will be open from dawn to dusk!
Gurnee Days is right around the corner and sure to be the highlight of the summer! Gear up for a weekend of your favorite time-honored family traditions, including kid’s activities, local food and drinks, LIVE music, the Gurnee Days parade, one of the BEST fireworks shows in Lake County, and much more!
For a complete list of events and schedules, please visit www.gurneedays.com _____________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
Facility Maintenance I & II (FT & PT) Fitness Attendant (PT) Group Exercise Instructor (PT) Member Services Staff (PT) Personal Trainer (PT) Preschool Teacher (PT) And MORE!
900 N Hunt Club Rd
This year, we are proud to present the 2024 “Seasonal Employee of the Year” Award to Jourdan Baldwin-Sylvester.
Melissa Marsh joins Gurnee Park District with a wealth of experience in the field of parks and recreation. Most recently, Marsh served as Division Director of Recreation and Museum Services at Glenview Park District, where she oversaw and supported the district’s comprehensive recreation and aquatics department, as well as the district’s museums: The Grove, Historic Wagner Farm, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, and Schram Memorial Chapel. Prior to working in Glenview, Marsh was the Director of Parks and Recreation with the Village of Lincolnwood, where she managed parks and facilities, recreation programs, special events, community partnerships, and capital improvement projects. Her background also includes serving National Gold Medal Award-winning and Distinguished Agency Accredited communities such as the Park District of Oak Park, Fox Valley Park District, and Homewood-Flossmoor Park District. 
It is with bittersweet emotions that we announce the retirement of Sue McDougle, our Interim Director of Recreation. Over her 24 years of service, Sue has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on not only Gurnee Park District, but the Gurnee community as a whole. Many of you may have had the pleasure of meeting Sue over the years, perhaps when your children attended our Growing Tree Preschool classes, through our various youth and adult programs, out and about at community events, or simply by visiting our facilities. No matter how you met Sue, we’re certain her warmth, care, and unwavering commitment to our community left a lasting impression. 