2017/2018 Morton Grove Park District Winter Spring Activity Guide
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1528999
DISCOVER OUR DIGITAL COMMUNITY E-NEWSLETTER All the information you need about programs, events, and District News delivered directly to your inbox. WEBSITE Click on the website to register for classes, learn about new programs, view project updates, browse the Activity Guide, and so much more. mortongroveparks.com FACEBOOK Find us on Facebook to stay informed about special events, and programs, to view photos, and to connect with your Morton Grove community. INSTAGRAM Receive immediate news, alerts, reminders, and updates when you follow us on instagram.com/mor- tongroveparkdistrict/ ____________________ MISSION STATEMENT Morton Grove Park District Is committed to complementing our community's quality of life, economic capacity, health and wellness through recreational opportunities while protecting natural resources. Register at mortongroveparks.com | 2024-2025 Winter-Spring Activity Guide 3 Sincerely, Mazhar Khan, President, Board of Park Commissioners A fi ve-member Board of Commissioners governs the Morton Grove Park District. The Board serves without compensation for a six-year term and is directly responsible to the electorate. A professional staff , led by the Executive Director handles day-to-day operations. The Morton Grove Board of Park Commissioners welcomes citizens at all their meetings. All meetings are held at the Prairie View Community Center, 6834 Dempster Street, Morton Grove, IL. Individuals needing special assistance should call one (1) week in advance (847) 965-1200 so that arrangements can be made. Park District Board Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm. This schedule is subject to change. For more information, call (847) 965-1200 or visit the website at mortongroveparks.com PRESIDENT'S LETTER MORTON GROVE BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS ELECTED BY THE PUBLIC AND RESPONSIBLE FOR SETTING POLICY Mazhar Khan President John Pietron Vice President Paul Minx Commissioner John Liston Treasurer Lisa Rathunde Commissioner Morton Grove Park District residents, At the most recent National Recreation and Parks Association's annual conference, Dan Buettner, a renowned author, explorer, public speaker, and longevity researcher discussed his research on Blue Zones. Blue Zones are geographically defined areas with a population that lives measurably longer, such as Okinawa Japan, Sardinia Italy, and Loma Linds California. These areas have a significantly higher population of centenarians than their surrounding communities. So, what is it about these communities that produce older residents? According to Buettner, these communities have four defining characteristics. Residents of Blue Zones have populations that: • Eating wisely refers to making dietary choices that promote health and longevity. This means eating a plant-based diet, healthy fats, and moderate portions. • Personal connection refers to the strong social ties and relationships that contribute to overall well-being and longevity. This includes strong family bonds, community engagement, friendship networks, and shared activities. • Sense of purpose refers to having a meaningful reason for living that motivates individuals and enhances their well-being. Key aspects include life meaning, active engagement, cultural and spiritual practices, and lifelong learning. • Moving naturally refers to the way people incorporate physical activity into their daily lives without relying on structured exercise routines. Key elements include daily activity, walkable communities, active transport, physical play, and connection to nature. By integrating these practices into your lifestyle, you can create an environment that supports health, happiness, and longevity like those found in Blue Zones. With the assistance of the park district, integrating these practices into your life can be easy. The park district provides opportunities for you to make personal connections with people as you participate in programs and events. We provide opportunities to develop a sense of purpose through volunteering. There are programs on healthy eating and, of course, our parks and pathways provide residents access to physical activities that connect them to nature. It just takes a few minutes to peruse our seasonal brochures to see how we can support your longevity.