ParkTalk Podcast

Program Manager Lorraine Ouellette invites adults 50 and up to enjoy free or low-cost activities, classes and resources that can lead to better health, fitness, social connections and lifelong learning.

Organic gardener Kelly Foster explains what organic gardening is, how it helps nurture healthy soil, and how you can take a step toward more of an organic approach to your home garden.

Four sixth grade students in Naperville, Illinois discuss their experiment comparing phosphorus runoff from natural and artificial fertilizers. They entered their research in the U.S. Army’s eCyberMission competition. As one of only five sixth grade National Finalist Teams, they will compete in nationals in Virginia the week of June 17-22, 2018.

Entomologist Brittany Buckles explains how and why to protect both honey bees and native bees. Brittany has served as a beekeeper for honey bee hives and continues to study native bees in their natural habitats.

Kay McKeen, founder and executive director of SCARCE, an environmental nonprofit in DuPage County, Illinois, talks about how composting can benefit one of our most valuable natural resources: the soil. Learn how to start your own compost bin or join with neighbors in curbside composting.

Kay McKeen, founder and executive director of SCARCE, an environmental nonprofit in DuPage County, Illinois, talks about how composting can benefit one of our most valuable natural resources: the soil. Learn how to start your own compost bin or join with neighbors in curbside composting.

Arnoush Javaherian, also known as Coach Java, founded the Ultimate Frisbee® Club at Neuqua Valley High School in 2007, where he has helped the sport grow to include more than 200 students each year and to win the state championship 5 of the last 7 years. Java also coaches youth Ultimate at the Naperville Park District and is passionate about growing the sport worldwide.

Parent and volunteer coach Monica Lodge tells the story of how she brought field hockey to Naperville, why it's a great sport for young, female athletes, and how the story continues to unfold with the help of parents, schools and the park district.

Executive Director Ray McGury answers questions from our listeners.

Foundation President Troy Cooper and Board Member Jim Ensign recap the Foundation’s history, mission, current projects, and ways to donate or get involved.

Commissioners Carlsen and King were elected to the Park Board in April 2017. Learn about why they wanted to run for office, what they appreciate about parks in Naperville, challenges they face as commissioners, and how to get in touch with them.

Director of Parks Kevin Finnegan, Central Parks Manager Carl Gorra and Golf Operations Manager Kevin Carlson discuss the District’s park maintenance practices, including its ongoing initiative to transition to organic products and new strategies to enhance wildlife habitat and conserve resources in the parks and golf courses.

Finance Director Sue Stanish and Executive Director Ray McGury discuss the District’s strong financial position, sources of funding and what residents receive for their tax dollars.

Executive Director Ray McGury, Park Board President Mike Reilly and Director of Recreation Brad Wilson touch on the highlights of 2017, including the results of the Community Interest and Opinion Survey and the success of the Fort Hill Activity Center. They introduce the District’s new mission statement and preview new projects for 2018. They end with their personal reflections on why they are serving in the field of parks and recreation.

Executive Director Ray McGury and Park Board President Mike Reilly talk about the launch of the State of the Park District as Series One of the ParkTalk podcast.