The new service offers five ways to get updates. Users can visit the Field Conditions page at csparks,org, or go directly to http://5tat.us/17IYRRa. If you don’t have web access call 630-780-1517 to get the latest updates, or sign up for text or email alerts. Android and iPhone apps are also available. To sign up for alerts visit www.rainoutline.com to create a free account.

The park district also uses a Thorguard Lightning Prediction System at several parks and sports fields. Here is a reminder of the district’s lightning policy:

If lightning is seen, thunder is heard, or the Thorguard Lightning Prediction System activates (15 second horn blast), the following must be strictly adhered to.

• All games and practices must be stopped and the players immediately cleared from the field. Players shall seek refuge under a covered shelter, in a car, or inside a building.
• At locations that have the Thorguard System, wait for the all clear (3 short horn blasts). If the all clear has not sounded after 20 minutes, the game or practice must be canceled.
• At locations that do not have the Thorguard System, or if the system is not working, there will be a mandatory twenty (20) minute wait, from the last lightning seen or thunder heard, to see if the storm passes before any play can be resumed. However, the game or practice must be canceled if the severe weather has continued for thirty (30) minutes.
• On overcast days coaches must check the Thorguard System at Armstrong, McCaslin, Bierman, Hampe, and Red Hawk Parks. The Thorguard System at each location has a yellow strobe light affixed to the antenna. When the system has been activated, the strobe light flashes every 20 to 30 seconds. If the strobe light is flashing, the system has been activated, conditions for lightning exist, and the fields cannot be used.

This year pass holders and daily visitors will be able to enjoy a new play area and structure to replace the sand area at the water park, and pass holders will also be able to purchase a 2013 reusable Souvenir Cup, which includes discount fountain drinks for the entire season.

Visit www.coralcovewaterpark.com for season pass rates and special event information.

Thank you to everyone who came out for this year’s festival.We’d like to get your feedback on the event and help us improve the festival for 2014! Please follow this link to take our short survey. http://conta.cc/13CsKxm

Photos from the festival and the 5k run are available on our facebook page at www.facebook.com/justplayfestival.

Rates have been kept at the same low prices as 2012, at only $5 per round, or buy a 10 round pass for only $45. Tots two and under play free. Visit www.coyotecrossingminigolf.com for details of our May special events, which include Mother’s Day on May 12 and Memorial Day on May 27.

Coyote Crossing Mini Golf is on North Avenue, next to McCaslin Park and the Wheaton Bible Church.

Browse the adult guide for information on Fountain View Fitness Center memberships, summer golf events, summer softball leagues and new programs including digital photography workshops and wedding dance workshops.

Activities this year include the chance to make your own tote bag from recycled plastic bags, a reptile show, touch a tractor, and the first 100 children will be able to make a wooden toolbox in the Home Depot Kids Craft Corner.

Community organizations including District 93 schools, Carol Stream Library, Friends of the Great Western Trails and Hanover Park Apiary will be sharing information on their green initiatives and two dozen vendors will be selling everything from cherry salsa to handmade soap in this year’s Farmers’ Market. Visit our virtual farmers’ market on pinterest to view some of the items available.

More information is available on our Earth Day webpage.

Discover why more people are turning to natural, treatment-free beekeeping methods to save time and money, and produce healthier, stronger, locally-adapted honey bees. Learn about basic honey bee biology and behavior, fundamental beekeeping skills and equipment, beehive assembly and maintenance, honey extraction, and seasonal tasks. If conditions permit, students may attend an optional field trip in April to observe a hive installation. The instructor manages hives for the Village of Hanover Park and serves as the Chair of the Hanover Park Environmental Committee.

The program takes place on Mondays, 2/25-4/1, 7:00-9:00 pm at Simkus Recreation Center, $50 per person. Register at Simkus Recreation Center or register online with code 32866

View the Winter 2013 Adult Activity Guide for upcoming trips.

Dad’s dinner includes salad, champagne chicken, baked potato, vegetable and dessert. Daughters will enjoy chicken fingers, pasta and dessert. A 3×5 picture of the couple is included in the fee & available for pick-up one week later. Register at Simkus Recreation Center or register online.

The evening costs $33 for residents, $49 for non-residents, per person. The event begins at 6:30pm on both nights. Register early as this event can sell out fast!