Have you noticed? There’s a change in the air. Cooler temperatures, bonfires, kids are back in school, leaves are starting to change, football season is up and running, apple cider and pumpkin spice are taking over.  Fall is upon us; my favorite time of year.
The ideas of rebranding, revitalization and transformation are all around us, and the Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District is leading the way. I think you’ll find the changes at the park district classy and sophisticated. We have a new logo at the park district that reflects this new feeling.
Gone are the days of a campy logo and waiting by your mailbox for the latest park district news. We are embracing technology and we hope you will join us.  Our website is updated with a new look and a format that will make navigation a breeze. People from the community have told us how much they love the interactive map, the new calendar and the “want to know more” features.  
Check it out and tell us your favorite. We love community feedback. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook (Rochelle Community Park District) and follow us on Instagram (RochelleParkDistrict). We update and post to our social media multiple times a week. It’s the best place to go to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

The new fall program book is out. We’re bringing back favorites such as basketball (travel for boys and girls and Pee Wee Basketball for the little ones,) horseback riding (a fall must,) cheerleading, guitar lessons and Tiny Tumblers. We’ve also added some amazing new programs such as Little Dragons and the Canine Academy. Be sure to put Pumpkins at Night on your calendar — kids of all ages had a blast last year. I bet the parents did, too. I mean, who doesn’t like s’mores and watching little kiddos select pumpkins with pride?
We have programs for the adults, too. Whether you want to become stronger, slimmer, or more balanced, we have a class that’s right for you. If you have a bit of a competitive spirit then you’ll love our fall leagues. They are a wonderful way to meet new people, make new friends, and get a little exercise while you laugh and play. When was the last time you got to play and enjoy the feeling of being a part of a team?  
Now, I know change can be a little scary at times, so, don’t worry, we aren’t throwing out the best of the old just to usher in the new.
We believe in partnering with the community, creating and maintaining parks and recreation programs that reflect the Rochelle spirit. We choose to live out our mission statement and will continue to provide services, park areas, and facilities that will contribute to the wellbeing of all individuals and families. Stop by the remodeled, sleek office or give us a call. We have a warm, friendly, professional staff just waiting to greet you, answer your calls or questions, and help you register for programs.  (You can even see our pictures on the new website.)  They are more than happy to assist you in reserving a facility or mailing you a catalog. Yes, we still mail catalogs by request.
As the executive director of the park district, I’m proud of the enhancements that we’ve made… Check us out, the benefits are endless.

Roger Bunger is the executive director of the Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District. He can be reached by calling 815-562-7813. The park district office is located at 735 N. Second Street and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (This column was written by Jillian Wise, our accounts payable clerk. Thank you, Jillian.)