Gina Hassett began Aug. 20 as Hinsdale’s new Parks and Recreation director. She fills the vacancy left by Carrie Haupert, who left in July to become the executive director for the Bloomingdale Park District. Hassett is looking forward to carrying out her goals for the Hinsdale and preparing for this fall’s exciting array of events.

Q What goals do you have for Hinsdale's Parks and Recreation department?

A During the interview process several topics came up that I have noted that staff will put on the top of the list. One of those areas is the limited amount of green space. Demand for outdoor open space and athletic space is at a premium. My goal is for our department to continue the on-going relationships with local athletic organizations and the Department of Public Services to work on this issue. I also hope to continue the great work done by staff on special events and programs. We want to continue to increase the offerings of adult education programs. 

Q What experience do you bring to the position?

A I have been fortunate to work for a number of other agencies but most recently I was employed at the village of Orland Park Recreation and Parks Department. There I supervised a large outdoor water park facility, coordinated the 40-plus year round special events and oversaw the community facilities, which included the outdoor athletic space.

Q Do you think the department is meeting the recreational needs of the Hinsdale community?

A Only having been here a few days, it looks like the department is doing a good job. There is always room for improvement and as I look ahead the goal will be to continue to work with other community groups so we can work together to meet our residents’ needs.

Q What events does Parks and Rec have coming up this year that you are looking forward to?

A We have some great events coming up. Although summer is winding down we have our End of Summer Bash Friday, Sept. 12 at Burlington Park. This event will feature a concert with David Cassidy — how can you not feel happy just thinking about this event. Tickets will be available the day of at the gate. The fall program brochure should be mailed out this week, so residents should look for that. It is currently available online for viewing. For fall the village has updated our annul fall festival. The Hinsdale community groups have gotten together to offer the Fall Festival featuring the Great Pumpkin Patch at Burlington Park. This will replace the Chamber’s annual event downtown and our event that was previously held at Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge. The event is free and is scheduled for 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Burlington Park. The event will include the Pumpkin Patch, inflatables, kid's games, a magician and other fun. We are hoping to see a large crowd as we plan to transform the park to look like the Great Pumpkin Patch.