President’s report. Ross Petersen reported on a meeting of representatives of several councils (Fran Vandervoort and Petersen representing Jackson) with Chicago Park District concerning council guidelines. Controversial items were removed or will receive another look, and the 2000 Guidelines will be the foundation for new guidelines to be reviewed by a joint committee. Petersen noted general agreement that certain processes need tighter controls, such as involvement with programs for children, fundraising and financial reporting. He suggested JPAC consider working with a recognized fiscal agent, perhaps Friends of the Parks. Petersen praised JPAC’s written response and suggested revisions to the earlier proposal, prepared by officers Gary Ossewaarde, Petersen, and Vandervoort.
Nature Committee. Petersen reported successful controlled burns in the natural areas. Beaver activity is up but so far does not pose a problem for the natural areas. Growing Power is developing the Jackson Park community teaching garden. There will be both personal and communal plots. Information on how to sign up will be posted in the fieldhouse. Those who will read these minutes are encouraged to call the fieldhouse, 773 256-0903 for same.
Park and Program. Terry Jones, Physical Instructor, described spring and summer programs, designed to involve participants in every major sport as well as teach life skills. Our teams were second in basketball citywide in both 8-12 and 7-10 divisions. Table tennis is being considered as an addition. Go Girls Go includes posture, nutrition, and keeping daily journals. Jones noted that the summer program (now on line at the park district website) costs $55 for 10 weeks, a real bargain. If programs are overfilled, staff is moved from parks or programs less filled. Noted also is that the park district website lists job opportunities, including summer, with their qualifications and a form for downloading.
Organizational change. Alonzo Williams, who has been Lakefront region director and is now citywide Deputy Director of sports and recreation program services, announced that for budgetary and operational needs the lakefront has been consolidated into the other three regions, bounded at 51st Street and North Avenue. Jackson Park is now in the South Region, Liz Millan Region Manager and A. J. Jackson Area Manager. Williams introduced Millan, who was warmly received. Millan works from Tarkington Park, with a satellite office at South Shore Cultural Center. Mr. Jackson will be the direct manager and contact and liaison to JPAC. Milan provided the region office number, 312 747-7661, her direct line 312 747-6880, and cell 773 398-6880.
Other business. Petersen noted an important 5th Ward community meeting on Olympics impacts, input and planning April 24, 6:30 pm at the fieldhouse. Alderman Hairston, represented in lieu of Rosalind Moore by Charisse Linder, requested an ongoing JPAC liaison to ward Olympic planning. By general consent Geneva Calloway and Gary Ossewaarde were selected.
Progress on items on the park walkthrough/observers punchlist was reviewed: Agreed: areas at underpasses and embankments with blowing sand need plant establishment. Wallach Fountain repairs are a capital budget issue. Markers along bike paths have been adjusted. The boardwalk will have sand removed once per week. Balisters at the Marina bridge are issues for Chicago Department of Transportation. Meanwhile, all stated needs and requests re drummers circle have been met including the inside circle, signage and lighting.
Details and alternatives of the planned Frederick Douglass Memorial were discussed with Barry Rapoport. The fund was nearly at the level needed for park district commitment, but a goodly sum is needed for the entire project. Contributions should be sent to the Parkways Foundation, noting on the check “For Frederick Douglass Memorial.”
The meeting was adjourned
c. 9 pm. Next meeting Monday, May 12, 2008, 7 pm, 6401 S. Stony Island (fieldhouse).
Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
_____________________________________
We regret any miscommunication (March NL) regarding marking of invasive trees proposed for consideration for phased removal over three years. Questions? Zhanna Yermakov 312 742-4122, Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505.
Please attend 5th Ward Olympic meetings on 4th Thursdays 6:30 pm at the fieldhouse. Next, on transportation issues will be on May 22. CTA, Metra, and more are being invited, in addition to reps. from Chicago2016.
Natural areas volunteer
work Saturdays May 10, 24, June 14, 28… Sometimes extras. Meet at the
Darrow Bridge south of the Museum 10 am. Lasts to 1 pm. Call Ross Petersen,
773 486-0505.
Nature Committee.
Petersen reported on recognition of the Wooded Island Working Group collaboration
at Friends of the Parks annual lunch. He praised Doug Stotz’s technical
guidance and other work in the success of the Group.
Aramark’s contract to work in the park and on natural area restoration
has been renewed by the park district. There may be at least one burn in natural
areas this spring. The importance of burns to a sustainable habitat was explained.
A walk through of natural areas was planned for Wednesday, led by Yhanna Yermakov,
CPD Natural Areas Manager, and Becky Schillo, CPD Volunteer Coordinator. They
plan to mark every one in three trees to be removed in each of the next three
years so interested parties can view at convenience and comment. Staff and volunteers
will share the work. A herbicide stump application license is being refined
and sought.
Petersen reported beaver activity is on the rise, a vagrants shack reappeared,
and dog control signs were marked up again. Tire ruts have appeared in Bob-o-link
meadow. An additional report on status of any hazardous material at the former
Nike missile base is being reviewed, and more reconnaissance is expected.
CPD’s proposed advisory council guidelines and by-laws. Jackson Park was among a few council asked to review and comment upon the draft of new guidelines. As only limited review was possible at tonight’s meeting and many concerns were raised, Petersen moved and Dwight Powell seconded a resolution that the secretary ask the park district grant an extension for careful review and comment. Unanimously approved.
Council elections.
The floor was opened for nominations for president, vice president, secretary,
treasurer and at-large positions. Upon motion of Petersen seconded by Esther
Schechter, the previously announced slate was read and proposed for nomination.
There being no other nominations, the slate was unanimously approved:
President Ross Petersen, Vice President Fran Vandervoort, Secretary
Gary Ossewaarde, Treasurer Dwight Powell, At Large Geneva Calloway, Vernita
Jones, and Louise McCurry.
Old and New Business. Barry Rapoport announced progress raising funds for the Douglass monument and said more is needed along with some reimbursements. The editor offered to run the announcement again, and on motion from Powell, the council agreed to pay up to $100 of mailing.
Sports bubble in courts near the fieldhouse. Gary Glinsey, long a sports teacher with the park and Apostolic Church, raised questions about the project and whether all ts had been crossed on details, approvals, stakeholders’ concerns, and for adequate access by the public. It was agreed that Tyrone Mason of Athletes Committed to Education will be asked to review this with a future council meeting.
Park programs. Bill Tillis, Park Supervisor, and Daphne Johnson, Area Manager reported on three successful essay contests, with local winners competing in regionals. More schools are being recruited for our after school and camp programs—especially girls (programs led by Andrea Frink. Help is offered to kids in social agencies such as St. Martin de Porres. Spring programs will be outside and feature track and softball. The park staff and JPAC expressed appreciation for repair of the gym floor, in progress. The teen program advances. Mr. Glinsey moved praise for Bill Tillis and Terry “TJ” Jones who lead the sports program.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. Next meeting April 14, Fieldhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Gary Ossewaarde convened the meeting at 7:40 pm. President Ross Petersen sent his apologies. Introductions were made, including of new South Lakefront Manager Daphne Johnson (773 256-6117). With no objections, the December minutes were approved as circulated. (There was no January meeting.). With no objections, due to weather and limited attendance, elections and Nature Committee report were postponed to March.
Guests and report-givers. Growing Power. Laurell Sims reported on progress with the community garden. That in Jackson Park focuses on a community garden with outdoor classroom including on composting. Park program kids involvement is being coordinated. The plots will be contracted with individuals who must maintain and harvest. 5th Ward offered to help recruit. Potential problems are being addressed.
Athletes Committed to Education. Tyrone Mason reported rapid advance of plans presented to and approved at a previous council meeting for an advanced all-year enclosure over a set of current tennis courts. This would greatly expand the activities and teaching of the fieldhouse. ACE will bear the entire cost and upkeep. Daytime free open periods would be available for persons and groups of all ages. Evenings would have members sports with a charge and would hold or travel to tournaments. The council was reassured that all needs and potential drawbacks are being addressed, including being green, attractive, low-intensity. Drawings for the project, projected for Autumn 2008, were requested to be shown to the council when ready. Enthusiastic support was indicated from Ald. Hairston’s office, Bishop Brazier and Park District officers who had reviewed the plan to date. Members observed that the council has to be cautious with expansion of structures at expense of open space and sports courts. The council reaffirmed support.
Rebecca Graff, graduate student at the University of Chicago, reported on the pilot class she leads and its continued archeological reconnaissance and test holes related to the Columbian Exposition, under Park District permit through July 31. Material from the late 19th century regularly shows up. The project has a grant from Bard College. Partnerships are being sought with community youth groups.
Daphne Johnson, recently appointed South Lakefront Area Manager, reported on park activities. These include a ski trip to Wilma, near Gurnee, IL. At least one movie will be shown in the park this summer. Spring programs can be viewed in http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com. Online registration starts February 25 and in-person Saturday, March 1. Summer in-person registration starts April 26. Also reported is reminder that removed park dead trees and the wood chips from them will be staged in the Hayes/Cornell parking lot.
Barry Rapoport reviewed progress on the commemorative bolder and plaque honoring Frederick Douglass’ accomplishments related to the Columbian Exposition. $5,000 is needed to accomplish preparation and placement not far from the 59th Marina. He asked that JPAC consider helping with cost (to be considered at the next meeting) and planning a ceremony (he hoped by fall). Fiscal agent is the Parkways Foundation. Information can be obtained from Barry at drumjug@yahoo.com or 773 315-9269 or Cameron Lane at Parkways, clane@parkways.org or 312 742-4808. Donations can be given directly to Parkways at Frederick Douglass Monument Project, 541 North Fairbanks Court, Suite 850, Chicago, IL 60611.
Wording of the plaque:
FREDERICK
DOUGLASS (1818-1895), AN EX-SLAVE,
WAS AN IMPORTANT AUTHOR, EDITOR, ORATOR, STATESMAN
AND ONE OF THE FOREMOST LEADERS
OF THE ABOLITIONIST MOVEMENT IN AMERICA
IN CELEBRATION
OF HAITIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY
AND THE COMPLETION OF THE FIRST PAVILION
FOR THE WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION,
DOUGLASS DEDICATED THE HAITIAN PAVILION
JACKSON PARK, JANUARY 2, 1893
DEDICATED
BY CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS,
TEACHERS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS 2008
The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting
March 10, 2008, 7:30 pm in the fieldhouse, 6401 S. Stony Island Avenue.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
Minutes of the December 10, 2007 Jackson Park Advisory Council
Ross Petersen, interim
president called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm.
The minutes of the December meeting were moved and approved
with the following correction, with apologies to Ms. Yermakov and Ms. Schillo,
who were not present:
“Ross Petersen summarized the draft Wooded Island management plan, prepared
by Zhanna Yermakov, discussed at a meeting with representatives of many stakeholder
groups, and undergoing final review. The multi-year plan calls for staged removal
of invasive growth, particularly buckthorn, and replanting with native, bird-friendly
plants for a balanced ecosystem.”
Next meeting: Dwight Powell moved that JPAC hold no meeting in January hold our next meeting in on the regular date February assuming no conflicts with fieldhouse holidays. (Subsequent inquiry found no conflict except in October and November.) Powell also will work to relocate our bank account so we can take dues by the February meeting. The meeting agreed that officers for 2008 will be elected then. Growing Power is expected to present on the Jackson Park Community Garden at the February meeting.
Nomination of officers. Ross Petersen proposed the current officers as slate for the February election. Other nominations can be submitted to the Secretary at 773 947-9541 or garyossewaarde@yahoo.com.
There was no park and program report because the park district was celebrating Veterans Day.
Nature: Petersen noted the city has passed an ordinance banning invasive plants.
Museum of Science and Industry outdoor exhibit on efficient housing. Petersen reported on a planning meeting at the museum. The temporary exhibit, which opens tentatively in March 2008, would be approximately where the submarine had been. There will be no disturbance to the park, including the oak stand to the south. After the exhibit comes down. The area will be replanted in native plants. Archeologist Rebecca Graff will have access to the area. No objection was expressed.
Move for adjournment. Next meeting February 11.
Respectfully submitted Gary
M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Ross Petersen convened the
meeting. October meeting minutes were moved by Petersen, approved.
Park and fieldhouse. Alonzo Williams, Lakefront director, commended and the
council thanked staff who kept the fieldhouse open this meeting, on a holiday.
JPAC will be given timely notice of future holidays.
Halloween programs were very successful, serving up to 1500. The football team
came very close to winning its tournament. Still coming: Turkey Trot, thanksgiving
with flag football, and the football and cheerleaders banquet in December.
The park district budget is on line as of November 13 on http://www.chicagoparkdistrict
,com.
Nature committee.
[Corrected: Ross Petersen introduced the Wooded Island Restoration Plan, under
final review by stakeholders, and including a staged removal of buckthorn.]
It was noted that decisions need to be made about dead trees.
Jerome Scott, park district Forester, discussed the large number of dead trees,
some hazardous to the public, outside Wooded Island. The 63rd Cornell lot will
be the staging area. The shoreline revetment by La Rabida Hospital was cleaned,
finding best methods that can be replicated.
Bob-o-link Meadow clearing guidelines were discussed.
Jackson Park Vegetable Garden. Peggy Stewart and Jane Schenk led discussion.
Representatives from Growing Power were prevented in traffic from attending.
Much shaping and clearing has been done and contacts made. JPAC volunteers participate
by clearing mustard garlic. The garden is expected to go big next year and have
many programs. Explanatory signage is needed, including that this garden is
not for casual “harvesting.” Guidelines will be sent to the council
for publication. Policing was discussed.
Athletes Committed to Education proposed facility. Tyrone Mason discussed proposal
under discussion with the park district and many stakeholders to put a seasonal
or year round bubble over the nine tennis courts by Hayes Drive for play and
classes in many sports including golf, tennis, and baseball. This would greatly
expand the fieldhouse programs. Resolution was moved, seconded, passed unanimously
to conditionally favor the proposal.
Unfinished business. Moved, seconded and unanimously passed to amend the bylaws:
Authorization for expenditures shall be made only in council meetings and by
proper resolution. Checks must have two signatures and be issued at meetings
pursuant to resolutions.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. Next meeting Monday,
December 10, 7:30.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
Ross Petersen convened the meeting at the fieldhouse shortly after 7:30 pm.
Major business
The minutes of the September meeting were approved, with desire for more fieldhouse reportage.
Election of officers to serve to January 2008. Petersen moved an interim election (notice was provided), so that the Council can conduct financial business. He nominated the following to serve until January: President- Ross Petersen, Vice President- Fran Vandervoort, Secretary- Gary Ossewaarde, Treasurer- Dwight Powell. Continuing to serve as board members at large: Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jones, Louise McCurry. With no additional nominations, the question was called and the slate was unanimously elected. Petersen and Vandervoort agreed to continue to co-chair the Nature Committee.
Financial resolutions
to comply with Park District council guidelines and to universal practice:
The following are proposed to be amended to the bylaws. [Secretary:
As the bylaws state that the language of amendments must be pre-published in
the announcement of the meeting at which they are to be adopted, the following
needs ratification at the November meeting. Proposed location: Article Seven,
new section 5:]
Expenditures may be made only as directed by a resolution approved at
a council meeting. There shall be no less than two signers of every check, normally
the Treasurer and Secretary.
This resolution was moved, seconded and passed unanimously.
Also moved and resolved in conjunction: JPAC designates the Treasurer
and Secretary as the authorized signatories of JPAC checks and financial documents.
Approved with no objection. Fran Vandervoort asked that copies of the bylaws
be provided at the next meeting. The Secretary agreed.
Park and fieldhouse reports
William Tillis, Jackson
Park Supervisor, reported that the football and cheerleader (70 girls) programs
are doing well. Upcoming events included Haunted Beach House October 26-27 7-11
pm, a Haunted House bash party 2-4 pm on the 27th, and a Halloween Party for
After School kids and public October 31 afternoon.
November 16, 4 pm will see the annual Turkey Trot race for
three age divisions. 75 turkeys will be prizes for the 300 kids and teens expected.
Thanksgiving Day, November 22, the park will have a large football
tournament from 10 to 2.
December 6, 4 pm has the 2nd annual Junior Bears and Cheerleaders
banquet.
December 20 has the park kids holiday party.
Last summer the park held
or participated in major events: 3 concerts, a dance, and movie(s). More are
hoped for next year. (Problems with care of the beach house bathrooms by a contractor
were reported.)
The football team played Rainbow Beach in a large Homecoming at Gately Stadium.
The Parent Club is supporting the large number of squads.
Jackson Park has a walking club for seniors that meets at the
fieldhouse Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 8 am and walks 3 ½ miles,
with turnoffs for those preferring shorter distances.
Nature Committee
Petersen said a broadly attended meeting in September approved a phased removal
and planting policy. He will share the map and discuss the plan at the next
meeting due to lack of time at this meeting.
New and old business and community issues
Akim Gursel described concerns and desires of fishermen, particularly the “banksters” who fish from the lagoon banks mainly near Darrow Bridge. They patrol the trash and try to influence youngsters for the better. The principal need is for a box to store gear, etc. Concerns were expressed about fish stocking policies. Ross Petersen offered to put the fishers in touch with Lakefront Director Alonzo Williams re the box and with fish stocking authorities (Illinois Department of Natural Resources). He would also inquire whether milfoil remains under control, as it hurts fishing and lagoon health. He replied to a query, continuous portable toilets are unsuitable in the park but maybe the comfort stations could stay open longer in the fall. Petersen agreed that brush has over grown the banks and obstructed access, including along Bob-o-link Meadow.
Barry Rapoport shared language pending final discussion with the park district for the boulder memorializing Frederick Douglass’s role at the Columbian Exposition and Haitian Pavilion. He thanked the 217 who signed petitions and those—including area elected officials who sent letters in favor of the memorial. Suggestions were made for possible language refinements if not final.
The meeting adjourned. Next meeting November 12, 7:30 pm, fieldhouse.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
Ross Petersen convened the well-attended meeting at 7:35 p.m. Due to a full and special agenda, elections were postponed and the agenda adjusted. Fran Vandervoort moved approval of the August minutes; approved.
Fieldhouse and Programs. Terry Jones, Physical Instructor. Full and expanding enrollment and kinds of programs were described. All-around skill and lifestyle development are stressed. Cultural and seniors programs are on board. Teams in a wide range of sports were successful. Bishop Brazier’s tennis programs were praised.
Lakefront. Alonzo Williams, Director of Lakefront Operations. Williams thanked JPAC for its support of programs, which garnered an award at the September 8 Advisory Councils Recognition celebration on Northerly Island. The recognition and plaque, shown by Gary Ossewaarde, were greatly appreciated by members.
Nature Committee. Ross Petersen. Workdays are temporarily in Bob-o-link Meadow, where burdock and more are being removed. The plan for Wooded Island management is being readied for expert and stakeholder review.
Olympic and Paralympic presentation. Valerie Jarrett, Gyata Kimmons, Doug Arnot of Chicago2016 and Arnold Randall, Chicago Commissioner of Planning and Development. Also John Hillman, Mark Jones, Tony Romano; Alonzo Williams CPD.
Jarrett said there would be impact locally, but this is an opportunity to leave improvements and legacy with minimum disruption, if planned carefully and prudently. She said the Committee wants and needs continuing engagement in an open, fair, collaborative process. She noted that changes have already been made. A strong bid needs consensus. Concept drawings and a video on the citywide suite of venues were shown.
Arnot, who has worked on design at other Olympics, said they are working hard to avoid mistakes, including to the environment, or leaving white elephants. The park is to be returned to its condition and uses, with some compatible improvements (not asphalt but possibly including security features). Structures, lighting, stands will be temporary (although security features could remain) and will not go below ground. The two artificial surface fields and third, grass will be legacies. All facilities must be fully accessible to persons with disabilities, one of the reasons for artificial surface fields. Arnot said the latter would also allow maximum use afterwards since grass fields are and would be quickly degraded. Arnot gave the timeframe as a few months of phased work in late 2015 and again in 2016.
Questions
and challenges.
· Parks, field team experts were asked experience with artificial turf
playing fields. Offers advantages.
· What will be off limits or have impractical access? Hayes Drive, golf
driving range, soccer fields, Hayes lots incl. for basketball there. Not Bob-o-link,
Wooded Island, Golf course, Lake Shore Drive.
· Impacts on natural areas. Petersen showed what structures and activity
might be too close to lagoons and the ADA boardwalk and where crowds, short-cutters,
support vehicles, lighting might disturb birds and wildlife.
· Will infrastructure like sewers be affected; could improvements be
made? Team: generally no to both. And any wider kinds of improvements like playlots,
transit cannot come from Olympic program, funds.
· How will the athletes, people be moved? Shuttle buses; no autos (re-educate
off autos). Plan will take time.
· Several feared congestion in neighborhoods, effects on mobility, harbors,
golf et al.
· Will alternative places be offered teams, users? Past help in previous
displacements can be a model. Sports team reps stressed management and success
at such accommodation as critical.
· Several asked if more substantial legacies could be left: little result
for lots of disruption. Also suggested for effect and congestion/conflict mitigation
during the event was use of portable bridges for access, shiny steel. Team would
consider but is cautious about redirecting the park or leaving white elephants.
· An archeologist said the law requires a full reconnaissance ahead of
work; site was Columbian Expos.
· The short timeframe was generally challenged. Team cited Olympic, other
experience, no work underground.
· Will there be an extensive set of public input meetings and charette?
Yes. The presenters asked for input to help develop consensus on landscaping,
behaviors, traffic, being green. An “Olmstedist” is on the design
team. Full detail design starts in late 2009—that is the best window for
input.
The Olympic Committee was thanked for discussing and answering and were urged to return often. Members reviewed concerns and alternatives. Concern was expressed about the park’s current state and needs, including major facilities, that may not be adequately addressed because the energy and funds will go to the Olympics. Petersen summarized consensus: Continue to learn and evaluate, Compile member questions at the next meeting. Adjournment.
Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
Appended report: Monitors/board members-at-large Geneva Calloway and Vernita Jones. They met with Alonzo Williams and Natural Areas Manager Zhanna Yermakov in July. All hope that by next spring the following will be or been addressed: Sand-stabilizing plantings at east side of 63rd underpass, Driving Range path, Pedestrian paths especially on the west side, parking lots at 63rd and Cornell. The driving range road, 63rd lot are since completed.
Workdays Oct. 13, 27. Meet
at Darrow Bridge south of Museum. Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505.
Halloween Haunted House fun at the 63rd Bathing Pavilion late October. Call
773 256-0903.
Park and Program report, Alonzo Williams.
· Summer
camp filled its 200 openings and was highly successful.
· Junior Bears for fall overfilled also; they are psyched up to win!
Cheerleading was about to start.
· “No barbecue” signage on 67th was up.
· The 63rd Cornell lot and Golf Driving Range road repaving with curbs
were being done.
· A survey for signage and other needs was done with police; almost all
police requests have been met.
· A park walk through was held with Parks Commissioner Pickens, trades,
and JPAC monitoring committee. Work orders were put in. Members noted more damaged
benches and other concerns.
· At 63rd Bathing Pavilion, more benches are likely. Nonfunctioning water
fountains were of concern, and bathrooms are to be addressed
· The drumming circle is in use; some signs remained to be put up. Protocol
for when special events are held at the beach house and for fire lanes have
been or are being established. Lighting was queried.
· Underpasses and more were heavily tagged and marked along the south
lakefront; to be fixed. Petersen reported that the “no dogs” signs
at Wooded Island entrances were again painted out.
· A work order went in for ‘Iowa’ building lights.
· The city budget hearing August 23 7 pm at South Shore Cultural Center
would include park concerns; the 2nd round Park District south budget
hearing will be September 5, Wednesday, 6:30 pm, at Hamilton Park,
513 W. 72nd. [Erroneous and changed.]
· Mike Kelly is the new PD Chief Operating Officer under Tim Mitchell,
Patrick Levar the Chief Administrative Officer, and Becky Schillo has been hired
as Natural Areas Stewardship Manager (coming with high recommendation).
Nature Committee and facilities report. Ross Petersen.
· Illinois
Department of Natural Resources, U.S.EPA and the PD under a grant will conduct
a thorough study of 63rd St. Beach watershed infrastructure and outflow,
learned from EPA’s Holly Wirick. Possible role of dogs or birds as vectors
was discussed. The PD has hired a firm, Wild Goose Chase, to flush geese with
dogs, which Petersen said were rousting all birds. Dog regulations are unchanged.
· Rebecca Graff has received permission to proceed with a small
archeological survey near Osaka Garden and will report at a future
meeting.
· 2016 Olympic Committee representatives presents, answers questions
at the September 10 meeting; public invited! Members reviewed and had
no objection to JPAC Olympics resolution language passed at the previous meeting
and published in the minutes in the August JPAC Newsletter.
· A summit was held about Wooded Island natural management.
Attending were the District, Friends of the Parks, scientists, JPAC and stakeholders.
Petersen said the meeting was very forward-moving. The goal is to reduce damaging
invasive species and introduce wildlife-friendly plants. Petersen showed a Chicago
Tribune feature showing that bird sightings declined drastically in the state
but increased in a natural area where invasives were removed. Jackson Park bird
numbers have been recovering.
· Petersen regretted that there has been no replacement yet of trees
lost in storms of 2003 and 2006.
· Petersen noted that aldermanic and police help was being sought to
address increasing night time illegal activity such as on the
south end of Wooded Island and in parking lots.
New business.
Gary Ossewaarde reported steps necessary since the decease of treasurer Tibor
Heisler.
Nominations were taken for election in September. Esther Schechter nominated
Dwight Powell for treasurer.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30.
Next meeting September 10, Monday, 7:30 pm, 6401 S. Stony, south room. Agenda:
Elections, Olympics
Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary
2nd and 4th Saturday Volunteer Workdays. 10 -1. Sept 8, 22, Oct 13, 27. Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505. For the next couple months work will be in Bob-o-link Meadow while a Wooded Island plan is developed.
Memorial service for Tibor Heisler Sun. Sept. 9 1:30-3:30 So Sh Cult. Ctr. Please RSVP Gary 773 947-9541.
Ross Petersen convened
the meeting. June minutes were approved. Petersen announced with sadness the
passing of Tibor Heisler, who served as JPAC treasurer. The council agreed that
nominations for all offices are open, nominations can be taken at the August
meeting and the election will be held September 10.
Park and Program.
Alonzo Williams, Lakefront Director announced a park walk through July 11 with
members of the JPAC visitation committee and park district Natural Resources
and Landscape; also a meeting the same day of the parties concerned with management
and template for the park’s natural areas. Petersen suggested open site
meetings before future work is done. The south lakefront first round budget
hearing would be July 17. The drumming circle signage was approved and ready
to go up. “No barbecuing” signs are up along 67th and the new playlot
nearly ready. Members brought to his attention problems with graffiti, benches,
and along paths.
Terry Jones, Physical Instructor, described a full summer camp and how well
our track team members did in meets. One youth was struck crossing Cornell Drive
to the fields; safe access needs attention, he said. The community garden has
been weeded. Petersen said that we need to hear Growing Power’s plans.
Other business
included a review of a meeting on plans to complete public access to the lakefront
on the South Side. Concerning future JPAC needs, Dwight Powell offered to help
with treasurer duties.
Condolences were offered to Ross Petersen, whose mother has passed away.
Olympics. Secretary Ossewaarde noted we have not had communication from officials
on Olympic plans for Jackson Park. After discussion, Petersen moved, seconded
by Dwight Powell the following resolution, approved:
“The Jackson Park Advisory Council opposes as ill-advised and
inappropriate the siting of Olympic venues in Jackson Park.”
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. Next meeting Monday,
August 13, 7:30, field house.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Special notice;
elections. Petersen announced that President Nancy Campbell Hays passed
away. This was received with great sadness and expressions of appreciation for
her many years of devoted work for the council and extraordinary life of service
and accomplishment. A memorial service was announced for June 23.
Petersen announced that the bylaws require a special election. By consent, nominations
were opened for all offices and a slate will be discussed at the July 9 meeting,
with election expected at the August 13 meeting. Voting by proxy was favorably
considered. (Ed. note: The bylaws, however, provide that “a person may
vote at the fourth meeting attended within a consecutive 12-month period…
there shall be no voting by proxy.”)
Maintenance and repair issues. Geneva Calloway and Vernita Jones, board members at large and members of our “park visitation” committee presented a list of issues with park upkeep, several, they noted, of standing since 2005 and reflecting a growing deterioration. Amelioration strategies were discussed by members and Lakefront Director Alonzo Williams. Among facilities are underpasses and their slopes, other issues with sand blowing and its removal, overgrown foliage, water fountains, paths, and the Darrow Bridge—including handrails and bollards. Among improvements definitely planned within the next year are the drive at the golf driving range and the Hayes/Cornell lot, which will be presented at a future council meeting.
Maintenance schedule for several upkeep items including sand on the boardwalk were described. Strategies for handling parking on grass and unacceptable behaviors were discussed, including new signage and policing procedures. A walkthrough was held by police and park district staff. Kemper was criticized for slowness to address the falling fence at the golf driving range. Alderman Hairston is seeking “no barbecuing” signs along 67th Street. (Williams added that barbecuing is allowed only where red cans for hot coals are set out.) Williams said he can be reached about matters needing attention at 312 742-6241.
Park and program. Terry Jones, Instructor, with William Tillis, Park Supervisor, discussed the expanded and popular programs for youth at the park. Enrollment was running well ahead of this point last year and they urged that kids and parents not delay signing up, especially since prices this year are very low. They thanked JPAC for providing trophies for the spring awards banquet. The council has also provided a contingency appropriation for needy players. The June 1 showcase and June 8 awards banquet in the gym were highlights this spring. Track and field placed well and is going to the state tournament. Summer highlights are special camps for tennis, Junior Bears and cheerleading—all free. The public kickoff party is June 18, 4-5:30 pm. The football program continues in various forms through fall and will culminate in an open banquet in December. The fieldhouse also has an active parents club and a dance troupe. Coordination of camp with park cleanup is under consideration.
Nature Committee. A meeting of parties was again being rescheduled on a protocol for natural areas removals and replanting. The meeting may be open to interested involved persons, who can contact Williams or Petersen for details. Petersen stressed the need to resolve the issues and that the park district have a workday oversight person at volunteer activities.
Old and new business.
Tributes were given for Nancy Hays, ways to honor her discussed.
Members asked about new marina plans, noting serious JPAC concerns stated last
year.
Barry Rapoport described and shared views of various commemorative boulders
in the park.
The meeting was adjourned at 9 pm. Next meeting July 9 in the field house.
Respectfully submitted
Gary Ossewaarde
Secretary
Minutes of the May 14, 2007 Jackson Park Advisory Council Meeting
Ross Petersen opened the meeting at 7:35 pm in the fieldhouse. The minutes of the April meeting were approved as circulated.
Fieldhouse Programs and the Park. Bill Tillis, Supervisor, reported that the spring program is one of the most successful in history in terms of participation and variety. Among reasons credited for the success is work with and in the schools, our male and female instructors, and publicity. While programs are centered around sports (track and football conditioning this spring), they include much more, from homework to cultural to social and life-skill learning. Climax will be a Showcase June 1, 6-8 pm and a sports awards ceremony June 8 4-6 pm. The public is urged to attend.
Tillis asked the Council to help with costs for the awards, to be obtained from Palos Sports. Upon motion from Fran Vandervoort and second by Dwight Powell, the council appropriated $400.
June 18-19: a special 2-day Lakefront Camp in football and cheerleading is set.
Summer programs were filling ahead of last year’s pace, but still had openings. (Some families wait until they know whether their kids will be going to camp.) The prices have been cut more than half to $155. (Prices at different facilities are based on cost-per-hour and a demographic sliding scale, and are regularly reviewed for appropriateness under direction of Superintendent Mitchell.) Upon motion of Dwight Powell, seconded by Esther Schechter, the council set aside $1,000 to be used as needed and called upon for scholarships for families needing help to send their kids to Jackson summer programs.
Tillis noted that the various parks and regions now work together to make sure all kids find a place in other field houses if their first choices are full and that they participate in integrated programs—for example, Jackson staff also goes to Harris Center, 6200 Drexel, which has a pool. He also reported that the South Side kids go to the same and same number or more of plays and other cultural activities and other trips as the North Side kids.
Teen programs have become especially important at Jackson Park, said Tillis and Lakefront Director Alonzo Williams. There is a citywide cultural and recreational initiative based on a survey taken by teens in schools. (Not surprisingly, girls and boys wanted a different mix—in some cases it works best to tell the kids what they are going to do—and they end up liking it). In the mix are etiquette/life lessons and help from such organizations as Hyde Park Art Center. The program includes learning-earning, fund raising, sweat-equity and volunteering: They get to do X if they do Y.
A new initiative is the summer-long tour-the-lakefront bike challenge.
The roadway by the soccer fields and Golf Driving range are being re-graveled and hopes are that it will soon be budgeted for a new paved roadway with curbs, to discourage the public from parking on the grass.
Tillis also reported that
the (reconfigured) Drumming Circle is completed but frequently needs sand removal.
Public informational meetings and discussion on beach policies and protocols
including swim bans were planned for May 15 at Rainbow Park and May 17 at Margate
Park.
Park/Lakefront staff held a walk through of Jackson Park with 3rd District Police Commander Franklin related to policing, signage, parking lot and lot gates issues. Members mentioned as recurring trouble spots the Driving Range, Music Court, tennis court, and La Rabida lots and Wooded Island at night. Police were said to do their best to stop the public parking on the grass. JPAC will invite Cdr. Franklin to the June meeting.
Matters of concern brought up included fresh wood chips dumped by parties unknown on the community garden (to be removed) and need to consider rotating heavily used sports fields.
Eleanor Roemer,
Friends of the Parks: Completing the last 4 miles of public Lakefront
Roemer shared results of public charette and meetings with stakeholders and
nearby residents on ways to complete the vision of A. Montgomery Ward, Daniel
Burnham and others for a publicly owned and accessible lakefront forever open,
free, and clear, starting with sections in the 7000s and at USX. (2009 will
be the Centennial of the Burnham Plan for Chicago.) Neighbors concerns have
been assessed and “soft” ways sought by architects to have public
access without interfering with either owners’ rights or the currents
and freshness of the water. Efforts have also been made to mesh with other features
and possible projects such marinas, parks, biodiversity/lakeshore restoration,
transportation, and South Lakeshore Access.
A public symposium will be held June 20, 6:30 pm at South Shore Cultural Center,
7059 South Shore Drive. The Council consented to be one of the sponsors. Concepts
can be previewed at the Bronzeville Visitors Information Center, 3501 S. King
Drive, and the 7th Ward Office. Suggested was involvement of classrooms in exploring
issues and design concepts.
Nature Committee. Ross Petersen. Frances Vandervoort brought a list of a small set of native plants donated and to be planted on Wooded Island May 22. A small meeting of experienced parties concerning replacements and plantings on Wooded Island has been set up with the park district and Friends of the Parks. Among needs raised tonight were continuous review of: plant templates, how much and how to replace downed trees and brush, removals policy, ways to specify follow up tending of new plantings and replacement of what dies, perhaps by moving some from “capital” to “operating”. Concerning whether the lagoon levels are regulated to prevent edge plantings from being drowned or dried out, Petersen reported that the equipment installed during the Lagoon Restoration Project has stopped working.
Old business.
Barry Rapoport showed language given to the Park District’s Adam Guerrero
(External Affairs) for the plaque honoring Frederick Douglass. The Council by
general consent found the language fine and suggested a boulder about 1 and
a half to two feet in diameter. Several alternatives for containing the text
were considered fine, including aluminum, bronze, and etched into the stone.
The stone erected by the Women of the American Legion east of the 59th St. tennis
courts was referenced.
The text reads: “Frederick Douglass dedicated the Haitian Pavilion on
January 2, 1893, celebrating the first finished pavilion for the World Columbian
Exposition and Haitian Independence Day.”
The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting June 11, 7:30 pm, Field house.
Respectfully submitted
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Jackson Park Advisory
Council
April 9, 2007 Advisory Council Minutes
Ross Petersen opened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. Minutes of the March meeting were
approved as corrected.
Park news. Terry Jones described varied and growing spring and summer programs. Registration is always in the first month of the preceding quarter. The public is invited to the May 21 gym show, 4-6 p.m. to see what is offered and what the kids learn. The student/instructor ratio for the June 25th-August 3rd summer session is 10:1 for the younger kids and 20:1 for the older. Also, teens 14-16 serve as junior counselors, earning points. The camps also include significant cultural and sports field trips.
Jackson’s team took 3rd place in the Region in inner city league play. Some players were all-stars, and Terry Jones coached. Jones noted that Commander Franklin, 3rd Police District, had over 100 kids at a banquet. The District’s very active Explorers’ program works with Jackson.
The woodchip pile is now gone, with a reserve set aside for Earth Day work. The improved drumming circle has had sand removed and is ready for concrete to be poured. After that, evened stone-block seating will be set. An inaugural celebratory festival is being planned.
Nature Committee. Petersen reported that a good sized group worked in natural areas March 24 and that groups were signed up for work April 14 and 28 (regular 2nd and 4th Saturdays) and Sunday afternoon April 22 for Earth Day. The latter will include University of Chicago groups and will focus on several part of the park, including the new community garden. Petersen invited the park to have teen programs work with the volunteer worday and garden programs. Kenwood Academy students and teachers are already involved.
Olympics. Petersen reported that field hockey will be in the soccer fields rather than an enclosed area such as the Driving Range. The use will displace a solid group of established users and limit or prevent access to a large area for up to three years. Problems foreseen include lack of parking or indoor plumbing. No action was taken at the meeting.
New Orleans’ City (Center) Park. Melissa Cook gave a greatly-appreciated presentation on the history of one of the country’s great parks, very heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina. This park has several interesting Chicago connections. Upon motion by Fran Vandervoort seconded by Dwight Powell, the Council approved donation of $200 to the park’s restoration fund.
Old and new business. The Park District now formally has Mr. Barry Rapoport’s proposal for a plaque commemorating Frederick Douglass and his role at the Columbian Exposition. Rapoport described new learning programs he is developing that includes large puppets.
The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting May 14, Monday, 7:30 pm, 6401 S. Stony Island.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
Jackson Park Advisory Council minutes, March 12, 2007
Ross Petersen opened the meeting at 7:30 pm. The minutes of the previous meeting (January) were moved by Fran Vandervoort and approved.
The elections were announced. With no additional nominations, the slate as presented was moved by Esther Schechter and approved unanimously. The officers are: Nancy Hays, President; Ross Petersen, Vice President; Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary; Tibor Heisler, Treasurer; and Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jones, and Louise McCurry, At-Large.
Fieldhouse
and park
Terry Jones, Instructor, reported on park kids and fieldhouse programs, which
have been full. Park Kids had 44 after school for varied sports and dance programs.
Among offerings are softball, volleyball, basketball, track and field, cheerleading.
At $60 for 10 weeks it’s a great deal. The evening programs for Spring
that run for 10 weeks include teen club, fitness center, African an Modern dance,
piano, baseball, basketball, seasonal sports and softball. Registration opens
April 16 online and April 21 in person. Prices range from free to $30, except
Park Kids after school is $60. The park is promoting full, year round use of
the fitness center and seeks to expand the programs for families. Parents are
enthusiastic and involved. Pick up the pink schedule sheet at the field house.
All are co-ed except dance and men’s bb and seasonal.
Black History Month Poetry Contest went very well; some JPAC members were judges.
The park will have a Spring Break Camp April 2-6 and gym show May 25, 4-6 pm
(public invited).
Jones reported that many repairs and maintenance were recently done in the park.
There is large woodchip mulch pile in the lot at 63rd and Hayes; the public
can take part of this.
Guest
presentation: Growing Power
Erika Allen and Laurell Sims of Growing Power, introduced by Peggy Stewart,
CPD director of Environmental Education Programs, presented on this urban agriculture
program that already serves several cities, particularly Milwaukee and New Orleans,
and Cabrini-Green in Chicago. The learning and community garden they propose
for the current community garden space in the park will be their first program
on Chicago’s South Side. This year the garden will be built and outreach
done. Their ultimate goal is a program in which kids and adults learn garden
creation and maintenance, sustainable living, and foods production and marketing—there
will be employment opportunities including for youth. Community residents and
groups will have growing plots, and quality commercial produce will be available
to the community. Production is scientific and green- no chemicals. The goal
is a sustainable community food system.
Guest:
Natural Areas Manager Zhanna Yermakov
Ross Petersen introduced Zhanna Yermakov, recently hired as Natural Areas Manager.
Her responsibility includes management of Wooded Island. She invited birding
and natural areas interested persons to accompany her on a Saturday morning
site visit. Ross Petersen, nature committee chair, will bring copies of the
forest management plan template of plants. A date was not set during the meeting,
but would likely happen on a Saturday in conjunction with a bird tour, late
March or early April.
Yermakov said that some clearing and planting must be done this year to start
restoring a balance and to remove obstructions and dangers from downed trees.
She seeks input. She noted that any planting, especially of trees, has to be
part of a larger, long-range plan. Further discussion was deferred to later
in the meeting.
Guests:
Holiday Wirick, U.S. EPA Region 5, and Justin DeWitt, Illinois Dept. Public
Health Administrator for Beaches.
The U.S. Beach Act is the point of interface between Chicago and state and federal
agencies. Chicago is currently in compliance with the Beach Act, the presenters
said. This legislation requires that if a jurisdiction seeks eligibility for
grants fund testing, surveys, etc. at beaches, then should the beach water reach
a concentration of 235 cfu of indicator bacteria, that jurisdiction must take
an action, which could be closure or public notification and signage.
Chicago formerly closed beaches after two days of readings of 235 or higher;
it now gives notice after one day of such readings and closes the beach whenever
1,000 is exceeded. The federal standard, developed in the 1970s, has not changed—revised
standards and protocols are being developed. Chicago tests much more frequently
than most jurisdictions (the minimum is once a week). There is not agreement
over what are the best tests or way and places to conduct them, they said—and
agreed that many sources of illness are missed or not tested for. The guests
said some trials such as in Lake County suggest that modeling is superior to
testing. Also, the real goal is to have progress on safe beach waters and Great
Lakes. As for a trend for more closures on the Great Lakes in the past decade,
at least some reflects more testing, they said.
Questions were raised about adoption and public health implications of Chicago’s
new standard. Director of Lakefront Operations Alonzo Williams reported that
input was taken on the change and that Chicago will be applying for grants.
Also, under a different grant, a thorough search will be made at two Chicago
beach catchments for outfalls and point sources of pollution. Members asked
that the park district choose oft-closed 63rd Street as one of the test beaches.
According to Williams, the district also has an educational program to discourage
actions that contribute to beach and water contamination and is rolling out
the new waste containers. And changes were made to the shape of 63rd beach.
Members noted that most of the storm and general runoff from park lawn panels
on the south lakefront ends up untreated in the lake.
Wirick, DeWitt, Ellen Sargent of the park district, Alliance for the Great Lakes
spokesperson Frances Canonizado, and members agreed on the importance of the
new Great Lakes Collaboration among the states and provinces to address the
pollution problems of the Great Lakes Basin. This would require states’
ratification and heavy federal funding.
Asked when and for whom the waters are safe, the guests said it depends on the
state of the individual and suggested people be cautious about entering the
water when the 235 standard is exceeded, or the days after a storm. Members
were concerned that Chicago may have set the level for closure too high; the
guests said it is a good starting point. A suggested source of more information
is the Centers for Disease Control website-- go to Healthy Swimming.
Members proposed better signage, that flyers explaining the protocol and the
dangers be handed out at the beach whenever 235 cfu is exceeded, and that outreach
be done in the schools and field houses before summer and at summer camps, and
to seniors and other vulnerable persons. Chicago Park District, with the 5th
Ward Office, is working to implement most of these.
Frances Canonizado of the Alliance for the Great Lakes said:
· Everyone needs to get together for better education,
· There is a funding problem, starting at the federal level (noting that
the Beach Act doesn’t fund remediation), and
· It is urgent that action be taken to fix the problems—we should
start green actions such as plantings, which have been shown to be effective.
Nature
Committee. Ross Petersen, Chair
Doug Anderson and Frances Vandervoort agreed to review a list of native plant
material to be used under the $500 council appropriation in January for planting
in Wooded Island. Final approval will rest with the park district.
April’s Volunteer Workdays will be April 14, 22, and 28. Workdays will
normally be on 2nd and 4th Saturdays, with specials, such as the Earth Day special
on Sunday, April 22. The latter will feature mulching and various projects in
several areas of the park. Organizations have signed up to participate. Workdays
will be under supervision of the Natural Areas Manager. Janis Taylor is the
volunteer coordinator at the park district.
Doug Anderson, under an agenda revision, reported on changes in bird sightings
this winter, which he reported as a drastic fall off. Members and park district
personnel discussed a number of possible factors. Anderson said the test is,
will we be back to 40 or so species stopping during the migration in June? Doug’s
tours resume with a special on March 26.
Natural Areas
Manager Yermakov and Ellen Sargent said the District is committed to a healthy,
sustainable habitat and bird population. They envisioned that if stewardship
is sustained, Wooded Island will reach its fullest potential as a bird oasis
in a few years. The reality is that a few species that are not necessarily useful
to birds tend to crowd out those that are, and so need to be trimmed back. Input
and partnership are welcome. Petersen pointed out that a healthy wooded habitat
has three healthy layers—ground, mid-story, and canopy.
Several members cautioned that birds need resources in the short run; removals
and plantings should be done piecemeal and with care and sense. All agreed the
park district must maintain what it plants.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 pm. Next meeting is on Monday, April 9, 7:30
pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
There was no meeting in
February 2007. To March JPAC
Newsletter.
January 8 2007 JPAC meeting minutes
Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:35 pm.
December Minutes were approved upon motion from Petersen with these corrections
and clarifications:
1. JPAC supports the proposal for an archeological excavation on Wooded Island.
Ms. Graff will return with specifics.
2. The Chicago Park District Natural Resources Department has created a new,
in-house position of coordinator to oversee volunteer activities.
Nature committee and news
Petersen reported that
beavers created a lodge and showed evidence of activity but have been inactive
lately and may have left the park. The trapper hired by the park district recommended
a wait-and-see approach, Petersen said.
Petersen explained need for appropriations of $500 for seed and stock purchase
for plantings on Wooded Island and $150 for training and equipment for volunteers
to apply fast degrading herbicide under park district direction. He said that
a main use for the herbicide would be to combat garlic mustard and similar runaway
invasives and that the need for appropriation is time sensitive in order to
take advantage of the class at Garfield Conservatory.
Adam Schwerner, Director of Natural Resources at the park district endorsed
the programs and said that without volunteer groups and judicious use of short
life contact herbicides the natural area would be quickly overrun. District
Forester Jerome Scott also said the need for funds and training is time sensitive
and that volunteers are signed up.
Fran Vandervoort moved $150 appropriation for the herbicide program.
Upon second by Dwight Powell the appropriation was approved.
Petersen moved establishment of a second monthly workday, 4th Saturday,
for planting, while keeping the 2nd Saturday for combating invasives.
Alonzo Williams, Director of Lakefront Operations, offered help. Upon
second by Dwight Powell, JPAC approved establishment of the second workday,
for planting.
Petersen noted that the February 12 holiday conflict, including unavailability
of our guest from EPA on that day, necessitates move of the February
meeting to Tuesday the 13th. The JPAC consented to the move and to
holding elections at that meeting.
Natural area/Wooded
Island discussion
Doug Anderson
gave an extended history of Wooded Island and why it is important as an unparalleled
Midwest bird paradise. He said that the Island has recently suffered severe
loss of cover and habitat and consequently of birds and questioned policies
of removal of all or most invasive plants.
During extensive discussion there differing assessments of the extensiveness
of clearing, whether and how much birds have declined on the Island while remaining
stable outside, and over policy for invasives including removal with herbicides.
Nature committee chair Ross Petersen explained the workday objectives and methods
and gave background, saying also that lots of non native plants are left and
clearance was extensive in only one section. The program is intended to “help
what should be there thrive.”
The two officers from Natural Resources supported going heavy on invasives, saying it was essential to prevent choke over and to restore a biodiverse, sustainable, bird friendly habitat. They added the park district has a new policy with plantings and contractors that will make sure that trees and brush survive. The district will issue, working with OpenLands, a statement on invasives policy and what volunteers will do. The district is working on new and replacement plantings.
Glenda Daniels of OpenLands
called for a healthy mix of habitat, said the park district has good people
to work with, and urged volunteers to stay with the program and Doug to continue
the bird tours.
All parties said they agree with the planting template developed several years
ago by consensus and intended for use again this spring and like balancing removals
with plantings as with the second volunteer workday. Fran Vandervoort said,
“Lets look ahead.” Caroline Herzenberg emphasized that the birding
community needs input in what is planted. The park district said there will
be more consultative meetings. Petersen also said there will be a walk through
and discussion before any planting is done.
Sue Purrington of Alderman Hairston’s office said that there are enough
expert and experienced people to work together and find innovative ideas. She
also asked Doug not to give up on the Island.
Upon motion from Petersen seconded by Powell, JPAC appropriated $500
for purchase and growing of plant stock.
In other business, Petersen asked Gary Ossewaarde to look into getting tech help and advice for the website. Nancy Hays was reported recovering and hoping to come to the next meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 pm. The next meeting will be a special day, Tuesday, February 13, 7:30 at the fieldhouse. Officers will be elected.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Ross Peterson convened the meeting in the fieldhouse at 7:35 pm. The minutes of the November meeting were approved as distributed.
A public art project was introduced by guests Lauren Moltz, coordinator and volunteer on councils and boards of schools and numerous organizations; Jon Pounds, director of the Chicago Public Art Group, and Mirtes Zwierzynski, directing artist. The project would consist of placing mural mosaics in up to 64 niches (554 square feet) in the two underpasses under South Lake Shore Drive and 57th Drive that were built by Chicago Department of Transportation with recessed surfaces, with such public art in mind. The mosaics would be of hard-fired, close-set ceramic that would take up virtually no water and would be extremely difficult to deface and easy to clean off, as attested by the many such mosaics around the metropolitan area. The Hyde Park Art Center and Ms. Zwierzynski will oversee the production of colored tiles by students of nearly every school. To date most of the elementary schools in Hyde Park have signed on; Ms. Zwierzynski has helped several already to make and install murals in their schools. Mosaic production is curricular-imbedded and involves four teachers at each school. Opening involvement to other schools near the park was requested by JPAC, and participation by or presentation to other organizations was suggested. Ms. Moltz and Mr. Pounds will coordinate participation and fund raising, with as much as $100,000 budgeted if all the niches are to be filled over the next set of years. The theme or set of themes is under consideration but could include neighborhood and or park and other history, features, nature, people, activities or concerns. For information, Mr. Pounds suggested people visit the Chicago Public Art Group website—www.cpag.net.
Peterson moved that: Resolved, JPAC supports the 57th and Lake Shore Drive Underpass Public Art Project. Upon second by Louise McCurry, the motion was unanimously approved.
Nature Committee. Ross Petersen said that several parks and parks supporters objected to reductions to the Natural Resources budget. The Park District restored the volunteer coordinator position—essential to Jackson Park’s natural area workdays and other upkeep including controlled burns. But there is, at least currently, no natural area manager since Ms. Sturdevant left. Petersen noted that the knowledge and skills of these positions is highly specialized and site-specific.
Petersen reported that aldermen have proposed in City Council banning controlled burns, essential to the health of meadows and similar natural areas. [Ed. This is now dead.]
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will return to the site of the Nike base to drill for sources of polycyclic hydrocarbons and other possible residuals.
We will have to keep track of damage from storms for replacements.
Fran Vandervoort and Rebecca Graff showed a photo of a light-focusing glass wedge from about 1915 found by Caroline and Leo Herzenberg in late November under a storm-downed willow tree on Wooded Island. These wedges were used over ship or sidewalk holds to provide light without need for potentially hazardous lighting.
Petersen will be growing under story native plants for the natural areas (lupines, false indigo, columbine, and others) in a park greenhouse (possibly Kilbourn or Garfield) with assistance from Kirsten Akre of Garfield Conservatory and the Parkways Foundation, funding arm of the Chicago Park District. Petersen moved expenditure of $100.00 for growing under story plants for the natural area, under Parkways Foundation. Upon due second, the appropriation was unanimously approved.
Elections. Elections will be held at the February meeting, announced in the January newsletter. Petersen nominated the current slate. President- Nancy Hays, Vice President- Ross Petersen, Secretary- Gary Ossewaarde, Treasurer- Tibor Heisler, Board members at large- Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jones, Louise McCurry. Fran Vandervoort agreed to continue as Nature Committee co-chair. Additional nominations can be made at the January meeting.
Fieldhouse report- Terry Jones. The football and cheerleaders program was a huge success, involving over 150 youth recruited from surrounding schools and neighborhoods. The Raiders did well. The related programs held a fine closing ceremony. (See back page of Newsletter). Especially valuable was the large participation of the Parents club.
A dance and performance “Let It Snow” was planned for December 16.
The Black History month essay writing and reading contest is returning. JPAC members will help judge.
Petersen reported that the park’s staff and programming budget were increased by 8 to 12 percent for 2007.
Old and new business.
JPAC noted that it has passed resolutions in favor of Mr. Rapoport’s proposed
marker commemorating the contributions of Frederick Douglass at the time of
the Columbian Exposition, to be located at or near the site of the Haitian Pavilion,
between the bowling green and the 59th St. harbor. The secretary was directed
to send Mr. Rapoport a “To Whom It May Concern” letter noting this
support.
Rebecca Graff, an experienced archeologist and anthropologist, seeks to organize a small and sensitive excavation with students on Wooded Island, possibly the location of the original Japanese Ho-O-Den temple village in the southwest part of the Island. JPAC registered its supportive interest. Graff will return with specifics.
The meeting was adjourned about 8:45 pm. Next meeting Monday January 8, 7:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary
Minutes of the November 13 2006 JPAC Meeting
JPAC President Ross Petersen opened the meeting 7:35 p.m. The minutes of the October meeting were approved with a correction offered by Mr. Rapoport for re-wording the tribute at the Frederick Douglass marker. Mr. Petersen moved that the new phrasing be accepted by the Board. Ms. Vandervoort suggested that she and Mr. Rapoport work on an acceptable format.
Report by Mr. William
Tillis, Park Supervisor:
1. Mr. Tillis thanked JPAC for support given to the football team.
2. He and his colleagues are currently recruiting students in local schools
for winter Chicago Park District programs. Schools and classrooms are visited
and receive mailings. Also, churches and The Woodlawn Organization are contacted.
3. The Turkey Trot cross-country race will be held Friday, November 17; from
4-6 PM. Different categories of young people will compete. Approximately 35
turkeys will be given away as prizes.
4. There will be a Thanksgiving meal Tuesday, November 21, in the fieldhouse
gym.
7. The Football Banquet will be help on Thursday, December 7, in the gym. All
are invited.
8. Parents’ clubs exist for various sports.
9. It is more difficult to motivate girls to be involved in sports than boys.
Girls need creative programs.
10. The Teen Club provides programs for kids 13-15, and is in every lakefront
park.
Nature Committee
Report
1. Mr. Petersen presented proposals to remove trees downed by the September
storm. 54 city parks sustained tree damage. He asked that CPD forester Jerome
Scott be invited to lead a park “walk-through.”
2. The mulch in the parking lot of Jackson Park at 63rd Street is available
for anyone who wants it. Mr. Williams assured members that the pile of mulch
will be gone by March.
3. Mr. Petersen reported on two successful workdays during which weed trees
were removed.
4. Growing Power, a local gardening organization, is seeking money to put a
chain link fence around a garden in Jackson Park. This organization may send
a representative to a future meeting.
5. Holiday Wirick of the U. S. EPA and a colleague will report at the February
meeting about efforts to manage beach water quality.
6. Esther Schechter asked about the Korean commemorative structure. Mr. Petersen
said we do know that not much is happening.
Report of Mr. Alonzo
Williams, Director of Lakefront Services:
1. The October 28 Halloween party took place at the fieldhouse. Attendance was
good, even though past parties had been at the South Shore Cultural Center.
2. South Shore Cultural Center will celebrate its 100th birthday Saturday, December
9.
3. Mr. Williams was asked about unfilled holes in areas of Jackson Park, presumably
dug for tree planting. Where are the trees?
Report by Sharonjoy
Jackson about the Iowa Building.
1. Ms. Jackson seeks support to restore the Iowa Building. She has concern about
its use as a concession stand. It might possibly be available to rent for receptions,
weddings, etc.
2. Ms. Jackson asked JPAC to support efforts at the upcoming CPD budget hearing.
3. Mr. Petersen commented that JPAC has made efforts to have the building restored.
The structure is basically good, but much of the metal has been stripped. It
has never attracted much interest as a permanent facility. Its location near
heavy traffic and its open structure may have hindered its acceptance as a permanent
facility – it remains an orphan.
Old Business
Mr. Rapoport proposed better signage for the Park. Mr. Petersen said better
signage was proposed 6 years ago, but not done.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM.
Respectfully, Frances S. Vandervoort
Jackson Park Advisory Council October 10 2006 Minutes
Ross Petersen opened the meeting at 7:30 pm. The minutes were approved as corrected: The section re: a proposed food distribution program by Food Not Bombs ends with “JPAC was amenable.”
Eleanor Roemer, Friends of
the Parks.
Completing the south lakefront: open and clear
Eleanor Roemer, Assistant Director for Policy, Friends of the Parks, presented
and led discussion. Charrette have been held and small and public meetings are
now in progress. a refined plan is expected to go public late in the year, ready
for discussion in honor of the 100th anniversary of Daniel Burnham’s 1909
Plan for Chicago. Roemer distributed a survey and also agreed to meet with the
council to discuss improvements and access to the southeast part of Jackson
Park shoreline and its interface with South Shore and South Shore Cultural Center.
Pamela Broom, Growing Power
Ms. Broom gave background on the organization and programs nationwide to train
youth and others in sustainable food sources, gardening, and environmentally
savvy lifestyles. Growing Power was asked to return with specific project proposals
to begin design with the council and gardeners of the park’s Longevity
Garden.
Fieldhouse and Programs
William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, thanked JPAC for supporting the Junior
Bears football team and program. This program, with 120 players and up to 40
girl cheerleaders, has helped to make this fall’s among the most successful
suite of programs in a long time. There is now enough staff to run large programs
and do outreach including in schools. 300+ participate in all the kid and youth
programs. Parents and the Parents Club have really participated, including doing
the cooking.
The fieldhouse will hold its Halloween Party October 31, 6 pm, open to the neighborhood.
On October 27-28 (but not 29th as reported in the previous Newsletter) Haunted
House will be open for kids (teens Saturday 2-4) at 63rd Bathing Pavilion. It
really will be scary, Tillis said. Charge is $5. October 28 will also see the
big Pumpkin Patch program at the fieldhouse.
November 17 there will be a free Turkey Trot for 6 kids and youth age division.
40 turkeys will be given away. On Thanksgiving there will be adult touch football.
December: a holiday party for the needy.
Bob Foster, Chicago
Park District special programs and facilities
Foster reported that the drumming circle needs modifications. These will be
done after planning meetings with the drummers. The council looked forward to
a major inauguration next spring.
Adam Schwerner, Director
of Natural Resources
Schwerner thanked JPAC for its contributions and participation in natural areas
management. Schwerner first discussed Wooded Island. He reported on meetings
that included JPAC Nature Committee and created a Wooded Island Management Plan
(shown by Petersen). There will be further discussions with the park district
forester and natural areas manager. All parties recognize that there are distinct
needs and visions that need constantly to be reconciled, He specifically noted
that needs of birds and other wildlife “is the lens” setting natural
areas agenda in Chicago.
Schwerner said the park district will replace all the trees lost in the disastrous
October storm, although this will take years and not be (in answer to query)
on a caliper-inch basis. He noted that over 900 trees were lost in South Side
parks, trees of every species. There is also much landscape damage.
Schwerner said the district is preparing a plan to improve slope and landscape
design at underpasses to correct the problems that have occurred. The 57th boardwalk
will have a sweeping schedule. Members suggested curbing to slow covering by
sand. The district is aware of the poor paths.
Nature committee
Petersen cited the natural area plan. He also said the Army Corps will return
to inspect and possibly remediate the Bob-o-link area, site of the former Nike
base. A document has been received.
New business and community
concerns
Sharonjoy Jackson said the Iowa building is not kept up. It’s in a community.
Various options and difficulties realizing them and creating ownership in the
structure were discussed. Petersen asked members to bring ideas to council meetings
so JPAC can bring a plan or request to the park district.
Lakefront and Park District
report. Alonzo
Williams.
Mr. Williams has been promoted to the position of Director of Lakefront Services.
A new South Lakefront Area Manager has not yet been selected. Williams’
office will be at downtown headquarters, phone 312 742-4641. JPAC congratulated
Mr. Williams and encouraged his presence at council meetings.
Williams emphasized the holiday programs and growing service to communities.
The fencing is up for construction of the replacement playground at 67th and
Chappel. The project may be finished next spring. There was much damage in the
playgrounds at the north edge of the park, Williams noted; extent was not yet
clear. Peterson reminded the meeting that one of the lots honors Civil Rights
and African American community leader Earl B. Dickerson.
Old business
The council reviewed language presented by Barry Rapoport for a plaque or stone
honoring Frederick Douglass and his role at the Columbian Exposition. Draft
(below) will be further refined.
“On this spot January 2, 1893, Frederick Douglass opened the Columbian Exposition with a speech from the Haitian Pavilion.”
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. Next meeting: Monday, November 11, 2006, 7:30 pm, Jackson Park fieldhouse south room, 6401 S. Stony Island Avenue. Agenda revisions may be given to Ross Petersen at 773 486-0505.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde
JPAC calls upon the appropriate agencies to implement recommendations of the U.S. Geological Survey to see what can be done to improve water quality, including diversion of paved area runoff, including from parking lots such as northeast of Hayes and Cornell Drives and from Cornell Drive, into the city sanitary system or Lake Shore Drive vortex separator system, instead of into the lagoons.
At its August 12, 2002, meeting, Jackson Park Advisory Council resolved the following:
The Jackson Park Advisory Council approves the Lagoon Restoration Phase II Plan but disapproves the boardwalk component.
At its October 15th, 2002 meeting, Jackson Park Advisory Council resolved the following:
The Jackson Park Advisory Council opposes boardwalks in the Jackson Park lagoons.
At its December 9th meeting, JPAC voted full support for landmark status for the Republic (Golden Lady) and thanks to the Chicago Landmarks Commission for its nomination and provisional protection for the Lady.
At its February 10th, 2003 meeting, JPAC resolved to ask the following of the Park District and to request a meeting with Lakefront Director Megan McDonald concerning these:
At its March 10th meeting, JPAC resolved that Jackson Park Advisory Council supports the concept of displaying the recovered Columbian Explosion fragments [of the Germania monument, recovered during Lake Shore Drive work] in the 'Iowa' building with appropriate lighting, historical signage, et al and asks to be shown options. JPAC also asks the park district to study the feasibility of restoring the 'Iowa' Building, including facilities and a concession.
JPAC also expressed its sorrow at the passing of Kevin Royt and its appreciation of his work on behalf of parks, including creation of Cornell Park.
April 14th resolutions
· JPAC
supports the work of the Promontory Point Task Force to rebuild the Point with
limestone and with access.
· A sum of $750 was earmarked for buying ground cover plants to infill
in replanting projects in the natural areas, under auspices of the Chicago Park
District Department of Natural Resources.
· JPAC supports restoring and finding a new home for the Norwegian Viking
ship replica sailed to and displayed at the World’s Columbian Exposition.
We ask the Museum of Science and Industry to provide such a home, in keeping
with its mission, holdings, and WCE heritage and to honor the Columbian Exposition.
June 9th
The Council set aside $1000 for contingency for needy kids park program tuition, to be called upon and used at the discretion of the Area Manager and Park Supervisor without further recourse to council action.
July 14th
The Council concurs with the suggestion of Park District arborist Brian Williquette that the lower trunk of the oldest oak tree be left standing as a memorial and the snapped-off main truck left in place after removal of some slices for study and a commemorative to be shown in an appropriate place in the park.
The Council insists that restoration of the basketball court at Hayes Drive to full suitability for basketball use be expedited by CDOT.
August 11th
JPAC expresses to the Department of the Environment its appreciation of the Department's program to test beach waters continually, validate a new "quick-test" approach, and model swimming ban conditions, as well as to study and identify problems. However, we think it is now time to plan and identify funds to find causes and solutions, from those peculiar to 63rd Street beach to those general and requiring collaboration throughout the Great Lakes.
JPAC lauds the collaborative work of park volunteers and organizations with the Park District in the parks. We commend such partnerships as that of the Hyde Park Garden Fair Committee in Nichols Park.
October 14th
The Council expressed its preference that the Viking Ship replica that was sailed across the Atlantic to the Columbian Exposition have a home at the Museum of Science and Industry.
The Council resolved to renew its membership in the Chicago Herpetological Society in appreciation for its help and its serving as an exemplar of the expert type group from which we recruit volunteers for our natural areas workdays.
November 11th
The Council resolved that it supports continued enforcement of Park District policy prohibiting dogs on Wooded Island, the Paul H. Douglas Nature Sanctuary.
The Council also voted to take membership in and donate $75 to Friends of the Parks.
January 12th, 2004
The Council dedicated a $1,000 gift from Bishop Arthur M. Brazier to kids and youth programs and scholarships at the fieldhouse.
February 9th
JPAC supported and requested of Alderman Hairston naming a new city park at 70th and Stony Island for Geraldine de Haas. The Council renewed its 2003 $1,000 gift for scholarships at the fieldhouse. Here is the resolution sent to the alderman:
March 8thAt its monthly meeting, February 9, 2004, the Jackson Park Advisory Council voted unanimously to support and request Alderman Leslie A. Hairston to support naming the new park at 70th Street and Stony Island Avenue for Geraldine deHaas. JPAC members’ signatures are affixed to the attached petition.
WHERAS: Geraldine deHaas has for more than thirty years promoted and produced jazz and other musical performance in the City of Chicago and particularly the South Side of Chicago and founded and headed such worthy organizations as Jazz Unites and initiated the Chicago Jazz Festival, and has thereby brought great renown and inspiration to the African American community, the South Shore Cultural Center in the 5th Ward, to the South Shore neighborhood, Chicago’s South Side, the City of Chicago, the United States, and peoples all over the world, and has brought increased recognition to uniquely African American and American music forms,
AND WHEREAS: a new park has been established by the City at the location of 70th and Stony Island, giving an opportunity to recognize a worthy contributor to society, whose name visibility can inspire our citizens, especially our youth,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: The Jackson Park Advisory Council on this 9th of February, 2004 does resolve and request that said park at 70th Street and Stony Island Avenue be named in perpetuity for GERALDINE deHAAS.
Attested, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary
JPAC voted to request of Alderman Hairston a variance from the city ordinance governing parking lots to allow flexibility with placing trees in the small peninsular projections into the Music Court parking lot.
May 10th
“JPAC recognizes and praises the significant contributions to the park and programs for our youth made by Michael Hyatt during his many years of service in the Park District and tenure as South Lakefront Area Manager.”
“JPAC supports establishment of a drummers’ circle east of the 63rd Beach House parking lot, as tentatively agreed upon, pending ascertainment of no objections from institutions in the park.”
“JPAC lends its encouragement to the ongoing community garden east of Cornell Drive and north of Marquette Drive, authorizes a JPAC grant in the amount of $60 toward purchase of plants at the Hyde Park Garden Fair, and authorizes a grant in the amount of $25 for publicity materials for the community garden committee, to be administered by Gary Ossewaarde.”
“JPAC supports Alderman Leslie A. Hairston (5th) in her position that the bus turnaround at the east end of the 63rd Street Beach House parking lot be removed. JPAC concurs that the bus turnaround was rejected by the South Lake Shore Drive Study Group and is not in compliance with the approved project plan and that the turnaround has not worked and has created numerous problems.”By general consent, JPAC supported reestablishment of the connector path between the roadside and harbor paths south of the Coast Guard Station area, as shown in the project plans and in preference people creating a desire path, and asked that officers inquire about the schedule for the same.
June 14
JPAC appreciates the efforts of negotiating parties that led to finding an acceptable location for the drumming circle. We ask that this agreement be recognized and the circle realized.
JPAC approves and supports City of Chicago Landmark Designation for the 63rd Street Bathing Pavilion.
Petersen moved and the council approved a resolution thanking Jamie Kalven, mediator for the Working Group on Promontory Point, for his hard work, report, and recommendations.
August 9
In a sense of the meeting resolution, the proposal for a roundabout at the Statue of the Republic was unanimously rejected.
October 12
JPAC asks that: whereas traffic and safety at the Hayes and Richards intersection need improvement and whereas traffic signals were effective at that intersection in the past and work well at the similar intersection of Richards and Marquette, therefore signals be restored as in their original configuration. Furthermore, JPAC does not object to further improvements such as humped pedestrian crossings and signage but does object to a construction of a roundabout.
A walk through the park for repair items was suggested. Subscriptions to the Herpetological Society and Friends of the Parks was approved. JPAC approved a gift for the fieldhouse Halloween Party.
Whereas the 63rd Bathing Pavilion is in process for City of Chicago landmark status, and whereas Eric Hatchett, the person most responsible for the Pavilion’s restoration as a major Chicago and South Side facility, deserves recognition for his work on behalf of the Pavilion, therefore JPAC asks that the 63rd Street Bathing Pavilion be named for Eric Hatchett.
November 8
A gift was voted for the park holiday party.
January 10, 2005
Officers were elected. Wishes were resolved for full recovery by Polly Silberman.
February 14
JPAC by consensus agreed to the compromise resolution reached by its officers and park district officials concerning naming the upper balconies of the 63rd Bathing Pavilion for Eric Hatchett.
March 14
JPAC gave its approval and endorsement of the Korean Memorial Monument Association's concept for a temple structure at the south end of the lagoons.
April 11
JPAC expressed its appreciation for the reconstruction and extension of the granite paver beach (north of 63rd St. Beach) and asked that remaining granite pavers be inventoried and retained by the district and that the parties keep their commitment to an historic sign or marker.
JPAC expressed deep appreciation for all who made possible the naming at the 63rd St. Bathing Pavilion for Eric Hatchett.
JPAC asks that a stone council ring for the drummers east of the 63rd Bathing Pavilion parking lot be placed in the next capital budget.
June 13
JPAC earmarked up $1,000 for up to 5 children who otherwise could not attend the summer camp. The allocations would be requested and administered by William Tillis and Alonzo Williams.
JPAC officers will coordinate a response to the natural areas and JETS situation, particularly in the Newsletter, depending on whether there is a meeting with the Superintendent and what is learned there.
July 11
JPAC supported the project of the School for Leadership, South Shore High School for an educational project in the park, at the site of the Haiti exhibit at the Columbian Explosion, involving particularly the life and contributions of Frederick Douglass, including at the Fair.
August 8
JPAC opposes the presence of a theater prop in the Columbia Basin and will seek its removal or proper management.
JPAC does not support the most recent plan for the 54th-56th Streets Promontory Point revetment and asks that it be restored in limestone.
October 11
JPAC agreed to join the Lake Michigan Ecological Partnership.
JPAC granted $200 for kids fieldhouse holiday parties and expressed its appreciation for programming staff work.
March 13 2006
JPAC asks facilitation of repair to the road leading to the golf driving range.
May 8
JPAC granted $75 for seed and related needs for the Longevity Garden in the park.
June 13
JPAC granted $450 for a family to send kids to summer day camp.
July 10
JPAC resolved that it supports and welcomes the Viking Ship from the Columbian Exposition coming to Hyde Park and the Museum of Science and Industry.
JPAC approved the following resolution in draft form:
The Jackson Park Advisory Council believes that the system now used by the Chicago Park District to notify the public of high levels of bacteria is inadequate at best and dangerous at worst. Warning flags must be posted in accord with EPA standards (see Addendum) at access points to beaches, and brightly colored signs must be posted with the words WARNING, ADVISORY, or BEACH CLOSED with reason, visible to all. Signs must be in Spanish as well as English. The health of the public depends upon it.
JPAC commended the work of Barry Rapoport and students from South Shore High for their project commemorating Frederick Douglass and the Haitian exhibit at the Columbian Exposition
August 14
JPAC resolved that Wooded Island is getting overgrown and needs review and revision.
September 11
JPAC is amenable to the organization Food Not Bombs having food distribution in the parks.
The council is also supportive of a plaque or similar small monument commemorating Frederick Douglass' opening of the Columbian Exposition with a speech at the Haitian pavilion.
December 11
JPAC supports a public arts project in conjunction with the schools for the underpasses at 57th and the Drive.
JPAC supported an archeological project in Wooded Isle.
January 8 2007
JPAC appropriated $150 for the volunteer training and equipment for application of rapid decay applied herbicide in the natural area and $500 for purchase of plant stock and seeds for the planting days.
JPAC resolved to have two rather than one volunteer workdays this year, 2nd Saturday as usual and 4th Saturday for planting.
May
JPAC appropriated funds and backup for fieldhouse program activitis and scholarshps.
JPAC approved proposed language for a plaque honoring Frederick Douglass in the park and suggested appropriate bolder.
July
The Jackson Park Advisory Council opposes as ill-advised and inappropriate the siting of Olympic venues in Jackson Park."
October
Proposed to be appended to the bylaws, Article 7, Section 5- to be ratified at Noember meeting: Expenditures may be made only as directed by a resolution aproved at a council meeting. There shall be no less than two signers fo every check, normally the Treasurer and Secretary.
Also passed, ancilary resolution: JPAC designatesthe Treasurer and Secretary as the authorized signatories of JPAC checks an financial documents.
Elected to serve until the January election: President Ross Petersen, Vice President Fran Vandervoort, Secretary Gary Ossewaarde, Treasurer Dwight Powell, At Large, Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jonees, Louise McCurry.
November
Authorization for expenditures shal be made only in council meetngs ad by proper resolution. Checks must have two signatures and be issued at meetngs purant to resolutions.
JPAC conditionally favors the proposed bubble facility at the 63rd St.courts by Athletes Committed to Education.