This week the Carol Stream Park District, along with Bedrock Earthscapes, have been conducting controlled burns at several park locations. Yesterday, 3/31, burns were conducted at Fountain View Recreation Center and Jan Smith, Slepicka and Tedrahn parks. Today, 4/1, burns are being conducted at McCaslin, Evergreen and Hampe parks.
A controlled burn, also known as a prescribed burn, is a planned fire intentionally set by trained professionals under specific weather and safety conditions. Its purpose is to manage natural landscapes, reduce the buildup of dead vegetation, control invasive species, promote the growth of native plants, and maintain the health of certain ecosystems.
Prescribed burns are carefully monitored and follow a burn plan that outlines when, where, and how the fire will be conducted to ensure it stays controlled and meets ecological or land management goals. In the Midwest, controlled burns are typically done in the early spring and late fall.
See short video at McCaslin Park.
Photographed from left to right: Park Board Commissioners Dan Bird, Brian Sokolowski and Jackie Jeffrey; Steve Ravanesi and his wife Karen and daughter Angela; Park Board Commissioners Brenda Gramann, Sara Witteck, Adam Parisi and Tim Powers. For more photos, see our Flickr album.
At the March 10, 2025, Carol Stream Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting, the Board unanimously approved Resolution No. 25-01, honoring Steve Ravanesi for more than 30 years of dedicated service to the Park District and the Carol Stream community.
Steve’s impact on the Park District is nothing short of extraordinary. From his years as a Park Board Commissioner (1994-2001) to his work as a volunteer soccer coach, and later as a project manager through McDonough & Company, Steve has played a vital role in shaping the parks, trails, and facilities that our community enjoys today.
A Champion for Parks and Trails
Steve’s leadership helped guide the rapid growth of the Park District, and his work was instrumental in bringing to life major projects, including:
✅ Fountain View Recreation Center
✅ McCaslin Park
✅ Coral Cove Water Park
✅ Elk Trail and Simkus Recreation Centers
✅ Memorial Park and Veterans Lake Trail
✅ Hampe Skate Park and Bierman Park Path
His vision extended beyond just recreation spaces—he played a crucial role in the development of the bike trail from Volunteer Park to Red Hawk Park and successfully advocated for the Route 64/North Avenue underpass, which created a safe and essential connection to the Great Western Trail. In recognition of his leadership, the Steve Ravanesi Trail was named in his honor.
A Passion for Biking and Community
Steve’s love for biking started early, thanks to his mother. During his remarks at the Board Meeting, he credited her with allowing him to ride his bike everywhere as a child, starting at just 11 years old. That early freedom and sense of adventure inspired him to start the Carol Stream Foundation Bike Club, bringing together cyclists of all ages to enjoy the trails he helped create.
During the meeting, he recognized several Bike Club members in attendance who played a key role in helping the club grow. He also announced that Larry Driscoll would take over organizing rides following his retirement from the club.
Supporting the Parks Foundation
Executive Director Rini reminded everyone that 100% of Bike Club memberships go directly to the Carol Stream Parks Foundation, ensuring that Steve’s commitment to parks and trails continues to benefit the community for years to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You
When asked about this recognition, Steve shared these words of gratitude:
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from the Carol Stream Park District. Over the past 30 years, it has been my privilege to be part of so many projects that have enhanced our parks, trails, and recreational opportunities. These spaces bring people together, promote wellness, and make Carol Stream a better place to live. I am thankful for the partnerships and friendships that have made this journey so rewarding. Thank you to the Park Board, staff, and the entire Carol Stream community for allowing me to be part of something so special.”
A Well-Deserved Honor
The Carol Stream Park District Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Steve Ravanesi for his incredible contributions. His vision, leadership, and dedication will continue to leave a lasting legacy in Carol Stream’s parks and recreation spaces.
👏 Thank you, Steve!
Click: Year in Review 2024
The Carol Stream Park District’s 2024 Year in Review celebrates a year marked by growth, community connection, and impactful initiatives under the theme “Building Community Together.” Executive Director Sue Rini highlights the District’s achievements, emphasizing the collective effort that has driven progress throughout the year.
2024 Highlights: Parks and Projects
The Park District completed several significant projects in 2024, enhancing community spaces and recreation opportunities:
Enriching Lives Through Programs and Activities
The Park District’s programs continued to “Enrich Lives” through a broad spectrum of activities. Athletics, fitness, and recreational programs remained at the core of community engagement. Facilities and rental opportunities thrived, with Coral Cove Water Park and Coyote Crossing Mini Golf welcoming thousands of visitors.
Carol Stream Parks Foundation: Giving Back
The Carol Stream Parks Foundation made a meaningful impact through initiatives such as the annual Duck Race and the Bike Club, alongside generous contributions to support the Park District’s scholarship program.
Partnering for Impact and Inclusivity
The “Partnering for Impact” section of the review showcases collaborations with local businesses, partner organizations, and volunteers who helped bring new opportunities and resources to the community. The “Voices for All” initiative highlighted the District’s commitment to inclusivity, with the continuation of installaing communication boards at parks to create welcoming recreational spaces for all.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on 2024, the Carol Stream Park District remains dedicated to fostering connections, promoting active lifestyles, and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in our community. There’s much more to explore in this Year in Review, but the overarching message is clear: Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Carol Stream.
In addition to the publication, you can view a short video linked here:
The Carol Stream Park District is partnering with the Rotary Club of Carol Stream and other community partners – Village of Carol Stream and Benjamin Middle School (District 25) to collect winter coats, hats, scarves, mittens and gloves through March 31, 2025.
Donations can be dropped off at the following facilities during operating hours:
All donations will go to Repeat Boutique in Carol Stream. They provide clothing and practical household goods to people in need.
This annual coat drive demonstrates the power of community partnerships in addressing local challenges and making a lasting impact.
This week, the Carol Stream Fire District conducted ice rescue training at Veterans Lake, sharpening their skills to respond to winter emergencies. The Carol Stream Park District is proud to support first responders by providing a realistic training environment where they can prepare for situations that could save lives.
While our community heroes are trained for ice rescues, we hope they never have to use these skills. The best rescue is the one that never has to happen. That’s why we’re reminding everyone to stay off the ice—no ice is safe ice! Even if it looks solid, changes in temperature and water movement can make it dangerously unpredictable.
Thank you to the Carol Stream Fire District for their dedication to keeping our community safe!
This is a reminder to stay off frozen bodies of water. Our lakes and ponds have constant water flow (under the ice as well), therefore freezing in inconsistent/variable depths, and it is unsafe for individuals to enter the water or ice.
SECTION 23: WINTER SPORTS-FROZEN WATERS
It shall be unlawful for any person on any Park District property to:
We have been notified that people, specifically at Heritage Lake, have been out on the ice. Like all our ponds/lakes, there is flowing water at all times beneath any ice that forms – therefore making freezing levels of water inconsistent and unsafe for any type of entry. Please, stay off the ice.
Read all of Parks Rules and Regulations Ordinance 411
The Carol Stream Park District Commissioners and staff extend condolences to the family of Barbara O’Rahilly, a dedicated community leader and long-time resident of Carol Stream who passed away on December 1. Barbara’s contributions shaped Carol Stream’s history, parks, and civic life, leaving a lasting legacy.
Barbara moved to Carol Stream in 1959 and quickly became a cornerstone of the community. She co-founded the Carol Stream Woman’s Club and Historical Society, playing a vital role in preserving the Village’s history, including the establishment of the Historical Farmhouse on Lies Road.
Her 24-year career with the Carol Stream Park District began as a volunteer swimming instructor and progressed to roles including Superintendent of Parks and Executive Director. During her tenure, Barbara oversaw significant growth, introduced innovative programs, and organized beloved community events. In 1993, Volunteer Park was renamed Barbara O’Rahilly Volunteer Park in recognition of her leadership and dedication.
Barbara also served as vice chairperson of the Village’s 25th-anniversary commission, helping to establish a local post office branch, and remained actively involved in numerous civic organizations throughout her life.
Her impact on Carol Stream will be remembered for generations. We extend our sincere condolences to her family and honor her legacy of service and leadership.
We’re proud to highlight Tony Chesrow, a custodian at the Carol Stream Park District and an accomplished hockey player for Team USA Blind Hockey. At 30 years old, Tony has been representing the United States in international blind hockey competition for the past eight years, after starting out with a local team in Chicago. When his vision qualified him for the USA team, he was invited to tryouts, and he successfully made the roster.
Tony’s love for hockey started at age 13, leading him to play at both Holy Cross and Lewis University, and even in the Junior A’s, just one level below Major Junior. However, as he grew older, a genetic eye disease called “Best” (Best vitelliform macular dystrophy) began to affect his central vision, leaving him with fluctuating blind spots. Tony describes the visual experience as seeing fireworks of colors like purple, green, and orange.
Despite this challenge, Tony hasn’t let it slow him down. Blind hockey players use standard hockey sticks, but the puck is adapted—it’s larger, slower, and makes noise so players can track it. Tony describes the sound as being similar to a cowbell. The nets are smaller, and players’ levels of vision vary. Some have around 10% vision, while goalies are often completely blind. Yet, these athletes block and save shots with amazing skill.
Tony’s journey has come with physical challenges, including two broken collarbones, but he says it’s been the most humbling experience of his life. Competing in a sport he loves, on an even playing field with others who share his vision impairment, has been incredibly rewarding.
His advice to others with vision impairments or any disability is simple: check if your sport has an adaptive option. “There’s a strong sense of community in adaptive sports,” he says. “In blind hockey, we’re like a family—you know you’re not going through vision loss alone.”
Tony’s story reminds us that with determination and a supportive community, any obstacle can be overcome.
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Fountain View Recreation Center, 910 N. Gary Ave, Carol Stream
Pictured from Left to Right:
Sue Rini, Executive Director, Carol Stream Park District
Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Commissioner, District 6
Dan Bird, Carol Stream Park District Board Commissioner
Tony Scerbo, Carol Stream Park District Parks Specialist
The Carol Stream Park District is partnering with the County of DuPage, in support of their Food Pantry Program. By serving as a year-round collection site, the Carol Stream Park District will help fight hunger and food insecurity in the community. Donations will be distributed to the Carol Stream Outreach Community Center and Wayne Township food banks.
Donations can be dropped off at the following park district facilities during operating hours:
Unexpired goods and nonperishable items needed include:
This initiative to keep local food pantries stocked year-round was spearheaded by County Commissioner Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Board District 6, after being approached by the Northern Illinois Food Bank regarding the ongoing need. Collaborating with Schwarze, Carol Stream Park District Executive Director Sue Rini requested the parks department to build special donation boxes designed to stand out as food collection boxes.
“We are committed to supporting our community in every way we can,” said Sue Rini. “This partnership allows us to take action against food insecurity and offer our facilities as accessible collection points for residents who want to help.”
The marketing awareness campaign, “You can make a difference: GIVE FOOD ALL YEAR ROUND,” will include monthly email reminders to customers, social media posts, and a webpage with more information and links to community donation sites and pantries. Recreation staff are also considering incentives to include the food drive in their programming.
Community facilities near Carol Stream that accept donations and also provide food pantry items to those in need are listed below. If you are in need of food pantry assistance, please check the websites or call for days and hours.
This ongoing effort demonstrates the power of community partnerships in addressing local challenges and making a lasting impact.
See our GIVE FOOD ALL YEAR ROUND webpage.
The following photos may be downloaded from the Carol Stream Park District Dropbox:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qr094zc81hmjc49afpeyt/AMBuoeoGrYBVD3nERTB910k?rlkey=uiyuafaaldczmnvb56kvzy9k2&st=3mzshbsc&dl=0
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Fountain View Recreation Center, 910 N. Gary Ave, Carol Stream
Pictured from Left to Right:
Sue Rini, Executive Director, Carol Stream Park District
Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Commissioner, District 6
Dan Bird, Carol Stream Park District Board Commissioner
Tony Scerbo, Carol Stream Park District Parks Specialist
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Fountain View Recreation Center, 910 N. Gary Ave, Carol Stream
Pictured from Left to Right:
Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Commissioner, District 6
Dan Bird, Carol Stream Park District Board Commissioner
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Fountain View Recreation Center, 910 N. Gary Ave, Carol Stream
Pictured: Tony Scerbo, Carol Stream Park District Parks Specialist (food box creator & builder
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Simkus Recreation Center lobby, 849 W. Lies Rd, Carol Stream
Food Collection Bin located at Carol Stream Park District Simkus Recreation Center lobby, 849 W. Lies Rd, Carol Stream
Food Collection bin located at Carol Stream Park District, Simkus Recreation Center lobby, 849 W. Lies Rd, Carol Stream.
Pictured are: Sue Rini, Executive Director and Tony Scerbo, Parks Specialist
Photo gallery from left to right showing location of bins:
