Minutes and Resolutions

President Louise McCurry convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m., 14 in attendance and park staff person Eric Hammond.

December minutes were accepted as presented.

Treasurer’s report- Dwight Powell. December 30 balance was $4,854.57 reflecting December additions of $170.00 and subtractions of $161.27 including $9.18 monthly maintenance fee. Total expenditures for 2011 were $1,161.46. This was considerably smaller than in 2009 and 2010 when we undertook major expenditures for work by Care of Trees but represents an increased commitment to programs and workshops. 2011 started with a balance c.$3,300; 2011 contributions to JPAC totaled $3,195.00, considerably higher than in previous years and providing a considerable surplus over expenditures. However, there is work planned that will draw funds down. The annual solicitation was instructed to be sent, and fundraising/gathering of sponsors for major projects will begin.

Natural areas. Jerry Levy reported on beaver damage. Authorities were not sure all beavers were relocated out of the park or that new may not have come in. Larger, higher metal armor has been placed around many vulnerable trees. The newly planted cherry trees were not damaged. Another burn may be coming in the Island interior. Our Wooded Island Trail brochure is quite popular. Fran Vandervoort proposed we develop a brochure for Bobolink and for a circle walk including the Island, south lagoon edge, and Bobolink. A walkthrough of such trail will be held. Noted was contractor and CPD work done on the edge of the south and east lagoons improving trail-like accessibility and planting trees and brush. Need to press against unsuitable activities there was stressed. Stewards and the president were asked to inquire who is removing netting from and around the lagoon islands and why.
Vandervoort said bookmarks are nearly ready to go to press and a general brochure is being prepared. Various uses were discussed including as thank-you’s and incentive. Moved by Powell, 2nd by McCurry and approved to spend up to $500 to complete these printing projects.
Bobolink Meadow. Ossewaarde read from report submitted by Norm Bell and Gail Perry: “Woody invasives and debris have been remove from areas in the ‘woods’, along the lagoon, ad along the eastern fence, opening them up for seeding and planting with native grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees in the spring” after a burn (if held).”The path has also been altered,” using timbers (as in several other parks) to discourage trampling and allow adding soil in low spots and planting diverse native plants close to the path.

Cleanup rounds. These will be regularized for spring. The area around Jackson Inner Harbor needs a major effort in addition to present pickup. Some bushes destroyed by LaRabida are on the capital list. The ‘Iowa’ building has had lights replaced; there is still some graffiti and a problem with accumulating cigarette butts. Someone has taken up residence under the Darrow Bridge, setting fires—patrol response has been marginal.

Park and Program. Eric Hammond, Recreational Leader announced an Adult Aerobic Fitness programs, evenings ten weeks to March 25 under Erica Robinson. A new youth class is DJ’ing for Beginners Wednesday evenings. The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. essay contest will be judged January 12 mid afternoon. JPAC provides judges.

Old and new business. Member experts on fields stressed the need to make the baseball diamond north of Hayes/Stony an attractive draw and park showpiece. Kenny Newman asked about the possibility of a shot put on the north side of the new track and field.

Esther Schechter asked we explore improvements and activities for the 63rd beach house and placement of the promised plaque honoring deceased JPAC president Eric Hatchett who worked for beach house restoration. Also, that we ask about any plans for the vicinity including the fishing pier and other staged projects.

Workshops. Next is Small Tool Sharpening, February 18 1:30-3:30 p.m., fieldhouse. Planning for more continues.
Ossewaarde distributed a bullet-sheet of JPAC accomplishments of 2011 and goals for 2012 (attached).
Members are asked to make a special attempt to attend the February 8, 4 pm meeting of the Chicago Park District Board at Kennicott Park, 4434 S. Lake Park.
Council leaders will attend a PAC networking meeting January 23 5;30 at Friends of the Parks featuring CPD’s new Programs Director Vaughn Bryant. The park’s Alderman, Leslie Hairston (5th) will be among those honored at Friends of the Parks Annual Awards Luncheon February 2. There will be a learning conference for all and any PAC members February 25 morning at South Shore Cultural Center. Friends of the Parks: fotp.org or 773 857-2757.

McCurry announced that the February meeting will be at LaRabida, 65th and the Lake to see plans and site of proposed expansion. A tour is included.

The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

Jackson Park Advisory Council Minutes of the December 14, 2011 Meeting

President Louse McCurry called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. at the fieldhouse. 18 members were present plus guests from Museum of Science and industry and Chicago Department of Transportation. Treasurer Dwight Powell was excused. Minutes of the November minutes were approved later in the meeting, noting that all Nov. Newsletter minutes should have given Charles Marks, Jr. (d. 2006) as the person in whose name memorial trees were planted. Gary Ossewaarde reported a bank balance of c. $4,900 (several authorized checks had cleared and two recently processed dues/contributions for 2011 deposited.) Richard Dervin joined at the meeting, our first 2012 contribution.

Guests from the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI),and Chicago Dept. of Transportation (CDOT) presented revised plans to update the group entry, parking and receiving area between the west end of the Museum and Cornell Drive. MSI’s Mary Krinock, VP for Strategic Initiatives; Ed McDonald, Dir. of Facilities, and Dick Klarich, Mgr. Cap. Construction led presentation and discussion. Original plans shown at the Dec. 2008 meeting remain in their essence as then, with main changes at the south side of the site and with traffic and pedestrian movement. Purposes are to upgrade management of buses and better phase entry for over 25,000 group visitors to the museum each year, improve receiving and disposal, manage storm drainage, and do these in a way that is safe, green, attractively landscaped, and meshes better with traffic flow to and around the museum. The improvements will be facilitated by better scheduling of groups, management of groups and buses via cell phone, and well-laid out, clear-to-children pathways. The site will hold up to 18 buses, reducing disorganized bus parking offsite. Other components are permeable pavers, storm water management, landscape. The team agreed to let Jerry Levy and Fran Vandervoort review landscape plans* (which include native and non-native plants picked for hardiness and sufficient soil and gravel to support). Drive entries, curb cuts were carefully evaluated and modified per CDOT. Asked was consideration of any ways to discourage shortcutting across Cornell Drive. No start date has yet been set, but should be summer or a bit later 2012. [*Ed.: The Museum promptly shared plant list.]
Rebecca Graff, Ph.D., archeologist, instructor in Anthropology at the University of Chicago, director of recent archeological reconnaissance and digs south of the project site and on Wooded Island, and JPAC member, raised strong concerns about impact of the project on as-yet incompletely surveyed historical resources in the project footprint, especially but not limited to south of the current parking pavement, site of the Ohio Pavilion and the most productive/
promising infrastructure and material culture deposits from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Projects with governmental funding must make certain accommodations for historical/archeological resources. The site is also in several historic districts under various government levels, and MSI has city landmarking. Graff and the project team agreed to meet to resolve and accommodate historic resources management.
Jerry Levy moved, 2nd, and approved that JPAC supports the group entry-parking/receiving area project of MSI and CDOT as a material improvement to the park, subject to resolution of the historic-archeological resources and any other material concerns and assuming detail plans being substantially as described. The presenters were heartily thanked.

President McCurry reported on a presentation she, Secretary Gary Ossewaarde, and member Robert McCurry-Davis attended at LaRabida Children’s Hospital, convened by Alderman Leslie Hairston, Chicago Park District Area Manager Cordell Hopkins, LaRabida CEO Brenda Wolf, and LaRabida CFO Mark D. Renfree. McCurry distributed at tonight’s meeting a report on the LaRabida meeting and Project. The plan by VOA Architects, lead Mr. Kahana is to build a 1-story, state-of-the-art outpatient clinic and therapy garden behind the present Pick (1960s) outpatient building and to update, make more attractive and partially repurpose the latter, all within the present, c.1930 lease line. Reasons: problems with accessibility, low ceilings, and accommodating state of the art medical equipment and supports, and to provide ample, attractive, and green-certified space for the modern practice of medicine and therapy—including allowing patients to see and be able to be wheeled into a roof and garden close to the lake and landscape. It is 70 percent funded. The plan, McCurry said, seems to serve a public interest and fit in with the historic and landscape character of the Promontory Circle part of the park, including keeping- and making more attractive- access (walking and bike path) along the lake shore. There will be a slightly increased diminishment of lake view from above over a short distance where vista is restricted already. The Hospital agreed to work with the Alderman and JPAC to give the playground occupying the proposed site (currently having very limited availability to the public and mostly unused by patients) for suitable relocation in the park for public use. The Hospital also showed ways it and the specially-chosen contractor will keep most of the staging and construction parking outside the park. The Alderman and Hospital will hold a meeting for the boaters and other harbor stakeholders in the spring to make sure there is ample parking and access. The JPAC representatives appreciated the Alderman’s asking JPAC to consider the plan before she granted approval and agreed to bring the project to the next JPAC meeting for a vote. When plans are further along, JPAC will expect presentation at a JPAC meeting or 2 another open opportunity which may occur at LaRabida in February along with an offered opportunity for members to tour the facility. Construction, providing approvals are granted, would start as early as summer 2012 and take about a year. Moved by Gary Ossewaarde, 2nd Jerry Levy and approved to grant approval assuming the project remains substantially as presented including promised resolution of concerns and holding follow up meetings.

Outreach: Louise McCurry discussed Jackson Park and JPAC initiatives at a Montgomery Place residents’ program attended by about 75 enthusiastic residents. Many stories and memories of Jackson Park were shared. Several residents and their canine companions now regularly patrol and (the humans) do cleanup at the ‘Iowa’ building across the street. Requested was one or a series of tours in Jackson Park. A follow up meeting will be held with those who wish to help with JPAC membership and fundraising. Many signed our petition for naming the Wooded Island north bridge for Nancy Campbell Hays. JPAC thanks Emily Vogel of Montgomery Place management for her part in arranging the program.
Weatherization clinic. All volunteers, organizations who took part in the well attended November 12 Weatherization Clinic at the fieldhouse were appreciated. Chief organizer was Toshia Booker. Next workshop: February 18.

Trail map, Nature. Our attractive two-sided, 8x14 flyer/brochure was distributed. Flyers are now stocked in a display box on the camera-pole north of the north bridge to Wooded Island. Featured are the history of, and what to look for on the Island, including what trees and shrubs to find where, with a key of leaf shapes. The species-names correspond to discrete tags on trees and shrubs. The flyer was prepared by Jerry Levy and Fran Vandervoort and proofed and approved by the Chicago Park District. At various stages, staff of several divisions were consulted, including Matthew Freer, Jason Steger, Jason Scott, Peggy Stewart, and Zhanna Yermikov. Natural Resources Director is Adam Schwerner. All are thanked. Small groups are already enthusiastically using the flyer. Commendation for the project and authorization for checks for costs was moved by the nature committee’s Jerry Levy, 2nd Fran Vandervoort and approved.
The committee noted that wayfinding signs to and about natural areas and other park features or history (like in Washington Park) would be desirable but are very expensive. The committee also would like to have advance knowledge of other tours in the park and offer their sponsors information and materials to share with their groups.
The Bobolink contractor, Pizzo, continued cleaning and clearing excess brush.
A prescribed burn was held in a part of Wooded Island. Its effectiveness was limited by our wet fall.

Park and Program, Supervisor’s Report. William Tillis and Andrea Frink thanked JPAC for 25 donated turkeys for thanksgiving/Turkey Trot. With 30 turkeys from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, about 60 families were fed. AKA with The Healing Experience also gave for the autumn-end Holiday family program on December 17. Esther Schechter moved, 2nd Vandervoort and approved $50 towards the Holiday Party. Pictures of the Turkey Trot and party will be placed on the jacksonparkadvisorycouncil.org website.

Park condition and fixes. The area of Richards/Marquette drives by the Inner Harbor and its boat dock were extensively cleaned up under Park District and are added to JPAC’s list of cleanup rounds. Agreed: to have a end-of-the-year cleanup there December 17 11 am, especially to remove fishing twine that strangles ducks.
Beavers have shown up and plans are to live-trap and release them before they do more damage to trees.
A GreenCorps class led by CPD Forester Jerome Scott has nearly finished cleaning/clearing by the LaRabida lake shore. JPAC applauded—the site and its views are now beautiful and visited by many families.
Graffiti have largely been removed from the park. Keeping up with that in the 57th Dr. underpass is difficult. Many sports court lights are back on. Four tennis courts have been cleaned; to be considered is care of--and possible need for new-- nets. A request was made, in light of people using metal detectors to remind all that Jackson is a historic park and unauthorized digging, disturbance or removal of historic artifacts is not allowed.
JPAC agreed to, and some volunteered to form, a committee to assemble safety information on playgrounds and do a safety and state survey of the seven or so in Jackson Park this winter.
A concern was expressed about insufficient lighting on parts of the Take the Field track and field.

JPAC directed parties to draw up a list/book of 2011 accomplishments including by each committee, with before and after pictures, and for each committee to tally volunteer hours. This will be shared with the park district, Friends of the Parks and maybe media. Esther Schechter offered a commendation of JPAC members and President McCurry for an extraordinarily productive year. The Park District staff and contractors were also commended.
The meeting adjourned to a very nice holiday spread, also applauded. Next meeting January 9, 7:30, fieldhouse.

Louise McCurry convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the fieldhouse. 16 including all officers were present. New attendee Dick Klarich, Manager of Capital Construction at the Museum of Science and Industry told of recent façade repairs made possible by the Save America’s Treasures fund of the National Park Service and said that the Museum does its part for green (including with solar panels that produce 50 KW power) and pursues community engagement. MSI will update plans for the southwest lot area at the December meeting.

Park and Program. William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, reminded us of the upcoming Turkey Trot race. JPAC exhausted its efforts to have turkeys donated by stores. So, moved by Fran Vandervoort, 2nd by Jerry Levy and approved to buy 25 turkeys for about $250. The next event will be the Christmas Party December 16.--donation for that by JPAC was placed on the December agenda.

In answer to questions, Tillis reported that various changes with schools and neighborhoods have reduced the number of kids, especially from the immediate area who enroll in Jackson Park programs, especially after the free and low-cost track, football, and soccer programs end.

Soccer nets are taken down each year, but the tennis nets are not because they are old and fragile. There are new chairs in the South Room-- which JPAC very much appreciated.

On November 12, The South Room was filled with over 40 participants in JPAC and Chicago Conservation Corp’s Weatherization Workshop. WECAN (Woodlawn East Community and Neighbors, Mattie Butler, Director) many brought supplies, kits and informational brochures and gave hands-on demonstrations. Energy Results and others also supplied many prizes. The Secretary was asked to feature in announcements a $40 discount at Home Depot on weatherization kits that will be furnished through aldermen.

On October 15, our first clinic-- on bikes and bike safety, was held at the ‘Iowa building’ south of Montgomery Place. Our huge sail-banner flew high. Many bike groups and experts participated, including Blackstone Bicycle Works, which teaches youth skills through which they earn repaired bikes. The pre-event cleanup crew and our pruner Jerry Levy were thanked. More work is needed there--painting, the patio, and a gate.

The minutes of the October meeting were moved by Esther Schechter, 2nd by Dwight Powell, and approved.

Treasurer Dwight Powell reported a October 31 balance of $5,130.24. Contributions for 2011, less expenses have left us with a balance about $1,500 higher than at this time last year. Appropriated but not yet spent current expenses include $150 and $283.98. Members requested an accounting at the next meeting of expenses paid out this year. Our reports to our fiscal agent Friends of the Parks are up to date. Barry Rapoport reported an old honorarium cost that fell through the cracks related to the Frederick Douglass Monument dedication (not our project) —referral to sponsors was suggested.

The Fundraising and Development Committee submitted a new contributions schedule for 2012 and are completing a solicitation letter that will include a listing of JPAC’s many activities and accomplishments for the year. The committee will be recommending JPAC help with park needs and start new programs for the public and park users. (Those reviewed at this meeting will be referred to the committee). The committee proposed a higher basic level of giving and several opportunity levels. It was repeated that neither making a financial contribution nor the level of giving have any relationship to one’s being a member, participation or voting. The levels are Friend $35, Guardian $100, Conservator $250, Patron $500, and Founder $1,000.

Suggested: joining and actively working with community organizations, asking certain businesses and organizations to give for particular projects, and asking their leaders to come and say a few words. Our brochure and bookmarks are nearly ready. We continue to review our survey returns.

Rapoport gave an update on materials about the Frederick Douglass monument and its dedication, including that the chronicle of the project will be distributed at the upcoming convention of Teachers of English. For materials contact Barry at barryrapoport7@gmail.com. Find the descriptive monument on the bike path west of and leading to the 59th St. Lake Shore Drive underpass (south of the Bowling Green). (2)

Nature/Natural Areas and park-at-large. Ten trees were planted west of Darrow bridge and the lagoons with Friends of the Parks. These are in memory of Charles Marks, Jr., a Hyde Park resident killed in Jackson Park in 2006.
Trees, shrubs and ground cover were planted at Osaka Garden.
In the LaRabida section, most of the overcrowding and invasive trees (including some growing sideways from shore rocks) have been removed and a huge garbage pit cleared. Criminal activity has been replaced with people strolling and visiting the shores and their beautiful views. One can see many fossils in the rocks. There were two workdays including with Loyola University at LaRabida. More needs to be cleaned north of the inner harbor along Richards Drive, and along Marquette and under the Animal bridge.
In response to a concern, it was reported that trees in Bobolink and Wooded Island are monitored regularly to make sure beaver protection does not girdle or choke the trees.

Paths were reported to be very bad on the west side of the golf course and at 67th/Marquette—in the latter sector, golf course chain link fence continues to be stolen, presumably to be sold for scrap—non-metal material was suggested. The path east of the new track and field was also reportedly bad. Several paths have been rebuilt in the last couple of years.

Jerry Levy and Fran Vandervoort passed around a draft template for a brochure that would include a list and locator map of tree species on Wooded Island and an introduction to the Island. They would be made available in a simple box at the north end of the island, and to school groups etc. Discrete small identifier tags for certain trees is being considered. Nature tours are already being given to groups.
Bookmarks with a collage of park pictures are in preparation, for use in outreach and fundraising.

Birds. Migration is done and ducks are settling in. The bird walks now go year round, with the Wednesday walks starting a bit later, at 7:15 a.m., during winter.

Sports and recreation. Discussion was held with Aaron Stephens of Apostolic Church, Ziff Sistrunk, Kenny Newman, and others concerning which baseball/softball field(s) should be refurbished and improved, what would be needed, and possible costs. Conclusion was that a committee will meet and come up with a plan. JPAC should then put in a request during the next budget season and major funders be contacted.

Old and new business. 59th tennis and dog-designated area: drug dealers are back in the afternoon- 3rd District is being notified. This area is a target for JPAC fundraising.

Suggested and agreed: that the December meeting will be at least as much a party as a meeting—a food etc. list will be drawn up and attendees encouraged to bring goodies. (PS. council meetings have refreshments.)

Election of Officers. Jerry Levy assumed the chair. He read the slate nominated at the last meeting:
President- Louise McCurry, Vice President (new)- Judith Hill, Treasurer- Dwight Powell, Secretary- Gary Ossewaarde. There being no other nominations, Esther Schechter moved and Levy seconded that the slate be elected by acclamation. So done.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:01 p.m. Next meeting and party December 12, Monday, at the field house. Principal agenda item: Presentation by Museum of Science and Industry.

Respectfully submitted,

The meeting was convened by Louise McCurry at LaRabida Children’s Hospital, 16 present. The meeting expressed its gratitude to Brenda Wolf, Director of the Hospital. Welcomed were, CPD Area Manager Cordell Hopkins, guests, and (we hope) new members: Richard Dervin and Elizabeth Wyman.

Alicia Feldman of American National Red Cross in Chicago discussed Red Cross safety, first aid, and disaster workshops in schools and low income areas. JPAC approved general support for such workshops or classes in Jackson Park. Area Manager Dwight Hopkins will follow up on conditions etc.

Minutes of the September meeting were approved with correction that the natural areas contractor’s name is Pizzo. Moved by Jerry Levy, 2nd Norm Bell.

Financial. Dwight Powell reported $5,571 and one deposit of $25. A letter was sent to Rosebud Farms regarding furnishing of turkeys for this year’s Turkey Trot. General consensus was to prepare membership and contributions letter as start of fundraising.

Natural areas and work. Jerry Levy, Gail and Norm Bell, and the McCurry’s were among those who cleaned and pruned in around the ‘Iowa’ building in preparation for the Bike Clinic. Nighttime drugs, activity continue. Proposed was inviting the 3rd District.
More work, including with over 200 volunteers has been done at LaRabida. Walk throughs were held and scheduled with the Park District including re major tree work and other quick fixes. Public enjoyment is up.
Tree planting west of Darrow Bridge, coordinated by Friends of the Parks was planned for October 14- volunteers were asked.
Bobolink Meadow was abloom with golden asters was and heavily used by birds. Lab School 7th graders are scheduled to work on invasives and collect seeds October 28.
Wooded Island work included a large project planned for Sunday, October 23 with a group from Loyola.

Park programs. The fieldhouse is up to full staff and working to attract girls as well as boys.

Details of the October 15 bike clinic were discussed. JPAC was thankful for the many organizations involved, especially the chief presenter, Chicago Conservation Corps of the City of Chicago.

Motto- a vote was held, after which it was changed some more. Preference was for variants of JPAC- “sharing nature, recreation, and history.” Moved by McCurry, seconded, and approved.

Nominations. Discussed was having two vice presidents- one to focus on development and fundraising, the other on programming. Also suggested was a director of nature education (Fran Vandervoort volunteered) and a designated historian and archivist. Toshia Booker asked to be excused from serving as an officer for personal reasons. Nominated were:
President- Louise McCurry, Vice President- Judith Hill, Treasurer- Dwight Powell, and Secretary Gary Ossewaarde. Election will be at the November 14 meeting at the fieldhouse.

The Finance and Development Committee was scheduled to meet November 2 at the fieldhouse.

New business. Barry Rapoport announced that the final video and repot on the 2009 Frederick Douglass Memorial (on the path west of the 59th Lake Shore Drive underpass) is available- search Frederick Douglass Dedication or contact Barry at barryrapoport7@gmail.com.
Members were reminded of the Bike Clinic Oct. 15 2-5 and the ribbon cutting for the track and field at 62nd and Stony Island Oct. 15 about 3:30 pm.

The meeting was adjourned after 8:30 pm. Next Nov. 14, 7:30, fieldhouse.

Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary.

Jackson Park Advisory Council September 12 2011 council meeting minutes

Louise McCurry convened the meeting at 7:30 pm, a quorum, 12 attendees present. The minutes of the August meeting were approved as presented. However, members wanted it clear that the celebration of the end of summer day camp was quite a gala event and included distribution of school supplies made possible by Walgreens 71st and Jeffery, particularly the manager Mr. Schelley and head of pharmacy Dr. Ann Ridgeway.

Louise polled the meeting concerning the October meeting day/location as the fieldhouse closes early on Columbus Day. Consensus was to keep it on the same day (Monday the 10th) and seek another location (subsequently arranged for La Rabida Hospital library).

Finance. Treasurer Dwight Powell reported an August 31 balance of $5,562.55, with checks having come in since. Fran Vandervoort noted that the cost of our park photomontage for flyer background and other uses will be $200. Moved, seconded to approve the expenditure with Fran to submit the bill to the treasurer. Approved.

More ideas for our motto were suggested and will be further narrowed via email.

Park District region budget hearing will be held September 27 at South Shore Cultural Center. Suggestions for comments and budget asks were requested. These could be sent to officers, who would narrow and present them at the meeting. All were urged to attend and lend support.

Louise reported on a meeting for PACs focused on park security, held that afternoon by Friends of the Parks, with Chicago Park District security personnel as guests. Much was learned about the role of park as distinct from city police and the difficulties ahead with major budget cuts expected. Louise will consult with the 3rd District CAPS coordinator, Sgt. Chapman, about more steps we or police can take in the park, and perhaps invite him to attend a future JPAC meeting.

Natural areas work. Pictures including of wildflowers were passed around. Park flower, bird, and insect life are flourishing. Families are visiting many areas of the park. Numbers stop to talk and sign up to work. Large amounts of trash and invasives continue to be removed in Wooded Island, Bobolink Meadow, LaRabida area and more, thanks in part to large groups including from Northwestern University and University of Chicago. More are expected in September, much arranged by Friends of the Parks. Some did raking, seeding and planting in the natural areas. The soccer groups held a large cleanup day. Lots of mulch made from pruning in the LaRabida area was used to create wheelchair paths down to three mini-beaches. The pruning was part of PD forestry training. One of the main projects on Wooded Island, Jerry Levy reported, has been removal of goldenrod by volunteers and by the contractor (Pisso) (especially in the prairie/former Rose Garden, to open up for valuable plants to do better.) Another has been planting of small ground cover and seeds- notes will be posted for people to be careful. In Bobolink a main project was thinning a deadwood thicket. A walk through was done there with the Park District, contractor and stakeholders, including on an evolving plan to make a transition ecotone this winter between the meadow and the woods, using grasses and forbs.
October 14 Friends of the Parks has arranged another tree planting, c. 9 am, between Darrow Bridge, Cornell.

Fran described planning by herself and others to invite school groups come in and learn nature and ecology—a curriculum is being developed for a general tour and “how to use a park” workshop. Moved, seconded, approved to pursue.
Fran reported on a scouting trip to other parks to narrow down what nature signage might be best in Jackson.
She commended a major article in the New York Times on Frederick Olmsted and the South Side parks.

Some repairs, for safety at the water’s edge at LaRabida is being contemplated by the PD, Louise reported. Members expressed some concern about what kind, and whether shore-up with rocks is needed for LaRabida.

Birds. Jennie Strable reported that we were in the midst of fall bird migration. Cormorants were among the prize sightings, south of Osaka Garden on high perches.

Louise reported that a series of events converging on the park did damage and that there has been a considerable increase in people and groups formally or casually using the South Lakefront. Problems include massive parking on lawns, displacement of or danger to kids playing sports, traffic congestion, and sets of insensitive bicyclists, particularly “cross country”. Members suggested that larger events should be scheduled later in the year (including bypassing bird migration time in the park and Wooded Island for running events period—the latter promised not to happen but it did). Also that the council be informed and be provided schedules of large events in advance and so be in a position advise, to monitor, and call for police/managing. Moved, seconded, and approved to meet with park officers, write letters, and invite parties to the council.

JPAC Workshops. Toshia Booker reported that the first JPAC Workshops have been set up; most will be in conjunction with the city’s Chicago Conservation Corps, whose courses Toshia recently completed. 3C provides support, materials, and publicity. C3 requires that programs it sponsors have a measurable environmental impact.. Other organizations will be recruited to participate depending on the particular program. Volunteers are of course needed for all programs. The first two are:
Bike Workshop, Saturday October 15, 2-5 pm at the ‘Iowa” building, northeast corner of the park just south of 56th across the street from Montgomery Place. (Cleanup days will precede.)
Home weatherization, Saturday November 12 2-5 at the fieldhouse.
Please contact Toshia at jpacattack@gmail.com to be on the message list or volunteer.

Fundraising and development. Judith Hill submitted a draft being reviewed by the committee, of a three-year strategic plan and preliminary plans to fundraising and of membership and contribution levels. The committee meets again on October 5, 6:30 at the fieldhouse.

Sports. Coach Stephens of Apostolic Church of God described the church’s sports and mentorship programs (youth and adult) as a sample of a well rounded program, and advised on how to assign time slots. The church uses the park for some of its programs. Louise urged that all groups or teams who want to use fields in the park sign up and get into the mix. It appears that the park’s supervisor will make final assignments for the new track and artificial field, although there is a preview/review committee made up of Jackson Park sport teams. The field and track is expected to be finished by mid-November. Louise also announced that a new baseball diamond will be built in the vicinity in spring.

Concern was voiced about the impact of a lengthening school day on signup for and viability of park afterschool programs.

There being no other business: moved, seconded and approved to adjourn until October 10, 7:30 pm. (This meeting will be at La Rabida Hospital library.
Respectfully submitted,

Gary M. Ossewaarde
Secretary

JPAC PLANS A BUSY OCTOBER 15
Saturday starts with a Bobolink Meadow workday, moved this month from the 2nd to the 3rd Saturday, 9-noon. Meet at the south meadow. For details and a lively page of pictures and information, visit
http://home.comcast.net/~normbell43/Bobolink/home.htm. Or email Norm Bell, parrybell@comcast.net, 773 288-1260.

2-5 pm. Our first JPAC workshop: BIKE CLINIC WORKSHOP. At the ‘Iowa” building, northeast corner of Jackson Park south side of 56th Street across from Montgomery Place. The community members and Advisory Council members will host a Bike Clinic. The purpose is to educate the public on the benefits of using alternative forms of transportation and of living a green lifestyle and to provide tips on safe riding and bike maintenance. This is a C3 project for the purpose of providing communities with educational resources and workshops as a team to make a measurable environmental impact. Others participants include the Active Transportation Alliance and the city’s Bike Ambassadors. There will also be material on the ‘Iowa’ building. Volunteers needed. For information or sign up, contact Toshia Booker-Blakeley at jpacattack@gmail.com.

Save the date for our next workshop on HOME WEATHERIZATION November 12. Normal dates will be 3rd Saturdays.

OTHER EVENTS
October 14, Friday, c 9 am. Join Friends of the Parks and recruited corporate volunteers, with JPAC in planting 9 or more trees in Jackson Park, between Wooded Island/ north end of the lagoons and Cornell Drive. For more information, sullivanme@fotp.org.

October 22, Saturday, 2-5 pm. WOODED ISLAND WORKDAY. Meet at the Darrow Bridge south of the MSI pond. For more information and sign up, contact Jerry Levy at sjlevy@jeromelevylaw.com. [THIS WORKDAY WILL BE MOVED- TBA.]

For any additional workday activities (and they pop up on the spur), call Louise McCurry, 773 844-2225.

JPAC IS THRILLED TO ACCEPT THE KIND INVITATION BY LA RABIDA CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL TO HOLD OUR OCTOBER 10 MEETING IN THEIR LIBRARY. 65th and the Lake. From Marquette Drive in the park, turn at the sign for the hospital and follow Promontory Circle Dr. to parking. Check in at the main entrance an proceed left (north).
NOMINATION OF OFFICERS WILL BE TAKEN FROM THE FLOOR.
When entering be sure to admire the wonderful mosaic of Columbus’s ships (Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria)—and discover the re-freshened beauties of the Promontory Circle and the harbors.

KEEP UP TO DATE- jacksonparkadvisorycouncil.org,
hydepark.org/parks/jpac.html. And any wishing to receive the newsletter by email only, contact garyossewaarde@yahoo.com.

Jackson Park Advisory Council August 8 2011 Advisory Council mtg.

Louise McCurry opened the meeting at 7:30 p.m., a quorum being present.

President’s report included pictures of the cleaned up and pruned areas near LaRabida and on Promontory Circle.
She, Dwight Powell, and Robert McCurry-Davis distributed surveys and interacted with many at the South Shore Jazz Festival and Louise and Gary Ossewaarde at the Highlands Fling in South Shore.

Louise suggested that consideration be given to using the Music Court south of the MSI south parking lot for nature and history talks and activities, storytelling, theater/performance and concerts. “Let’s get to know the park” tours could start from there. Members expressed support for making this a “preferred JPAC project” including for fundraising.

Louise also reported on a visit to Humboldt Park, whose fieldhouse has a nice art exhibit and exhibit space. Members thought having a small space for kid’s and members’ art, and a room with Wi-Fi for kids to do computer homework would help bring the fieldhouse up to date and make it more attractive and usable, and so these should also be on a projects list. Members noted some of the foundation and other sources that might fund such programs and facilities.

In order to enhance our support of the kid’s camp program, JPAC voted last month to explore getting/paying for backpacks and school supply kits for the campers. Louise reported these were donated and were distributed at day camp graduation. At the graduation, kids also received plaques with their pictures. Members expressed enthusiastic thanks for this donation by the Walgreen’s 71st and Jeffery store. Attendees signed a thank you letter to the manager.

Louise reported that Jackson Park hosted the Area 3 South Region budget hearings. Most of the PACs from area parks spoke. Louise spoke about unsafe bad walks and stairs such as at the LaRabida area, the deteriorating historic Darrow Bridge, a vintage bathroom station near LaRabida that had been restored and was functioning a few years ago, but doesn’t now and instead is an unsanitary dumping ground for park users who doesn’t have functioning facilities nearby. (This facility was subsequently being inspected by CPD.)

Louise reported that half the soccer fields have been taken up for rehabilitation (soccer teams will be relocating play elsewhere) and that the new and reconstructed artificial track and field was underway and would be completed sometime in the fall. The funder of the field, Traubert-Pritzker Foundation/Take the Field and park district invited the PAC to a walk through and discussion and offered several dates, Louise reported. Today’s meeting chose August 30 6 p.m., at the track (rain date 31st).

Financial. Treasurer Dwight Powell reported little activity, with a balance of c.$5,569.

July Minutes. Gary Ossewaarde. A question was raised on the appropriation voted in July for quick needs for ongoing projects. This will be adjusted. On motion of Jerry Levy, the minutes were accepted as corrected.

Volunteer workdays. Jerry Levy reported that the Bells will hold the regular Bobolink workday August 13 9-noon and that when finished volunteers were welcome after 10 to join a team of Loyola and Rush radiologists on Wooded Island to rake and plant seeds on a part of the WI west trail. Jerry thanked park district and contractor for replacement plantings- 5 large resistant elms, 9 burr oaks, and 16 shrubs including viburnum. They will be under warrantee. He also reported that work was done clearing invasives including goldenrod along 400 feet south of Osaka Garden. There will be some herbicide applied, in preparation for planting. August 27 was scheduled for Wooded Island workday 2-5 p.m. (A.m. by LaRabida was later dropped.) Some signs for use day-of-work will call attention to where to find the volunteer work in progress.

Louise described more progress opening up and clearing at LaRabida. Two large student groups helped out. There are large stretches where one can now sit by the water, and musicians have started to perform various spots and times of day. Further opening will have to be deferred as a lot of redwing blackbirds have moved in.2 A policeman now sits by an area which had been frequented by drug dealers and prostitutes, who have now moved out of the Promontory and golf east edge sector.

Louise asked for help continuing edging along the 60th tennis courts, to keep mud from washing over the courts and clogging the drains. The dirt is used to fill potholes. Scheduled: Sunday afternoon Aug. 14, 2 p.m.

Natural areas/birds. Pat Durkin said that lots of people come on the walks. This is shore bird migration season, and three green herons and a family of wood ducks, were among sited on the Island, and sandpipers are at 63rd.

Gary Ossewaarde reported the Park District website says the Army Corps project at 63rd is completed. Members noted expressed concerns about loss of beach and picnic area and impassible trails to the drumming circle, east beach, and pier on east side.

Park and Program. William Tillis, Supervisor, and Eric Hammond, rec. leader reported.
Day camp had 175 children enrolled and parent participation.
August 19 a 2 week sports camp would commence. Louise said a surprise would be coming from JPAC.
Junior Bears are underway and will play Wells Park August 20. About 85 aged 8-12 participate.
September 19-December 4 fall afterschool camp for ages 6-12, cost $80 per. Call about remaining slots.
The Turkey Trot (games and races on November 18) needs about 50 turkeys to give to the families. Members of the council agreed to pursue vendor donation.

Problems in the park: Esther Schechter furnished description/directions to some long-standing graffiti on the Hayes Bridge, hard to see from the road but all too visible from the walk. This would be reported.
Pat Durkin reported trash Saturday mornings in/by Osaka indicating nighttime “bacchanals” continue or resume. This will be called to attention of police, who have been very vigilant the past several months.
The council brainstormed about whom to engage regarding prioritizing Darrow bridge safety and repair.

Fundraising, Planning and Programming. Committee meeting is scheduled for August 24 6:30. A draft 1-, 2-, and 3-year action plan drawn up by Judith Hill was circulated.
Members noted that a key goal is a dog park. Louise said most work at the proposed site is done, but the quote for a dog friendly fountain with hose is very high. Various park needs were discussed for work orders or budget request (hearing date not then known).

The meeting was adjourned about 9 p.m. Next meeting Monday, September 12. That meeting will decide re: October meeting due to Columbus holiday- TUESDAY OCT. 11 or normal Monday at a different location.

Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary

President McCurry convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the fieldhouse, a quorum present, 14 in attendance. Introductions revealed one new) attendee, one guest presenter, and one who is only able to attend occasionally due to Jackson Park-related sports duties.
Minutes of the June meeting were accepted as presented later in the meeting.

Treasurer’s report. Dwight Powell presented reports and bank statements for May and June. Balance June 30: $5,553.64. Expenditures included $175 for JPAC t-shirts and caps (approved in April) and a bank charge.

Nature report: Jerry Levy reported on work done in Wooded Island and on several tours on the island’s ecology. Members would like to encourage tours they know about that include Osaka Garden to explore more of the Island. Groups are calling to do service projects, Jerry said. Jerry would hold a special workday on the 17th a.m., and the regular Wooded Island workday on the 23rd 2-5 p.m. In August a group from U of C is booked, and proposed was linking with the September 24 UC Service Center Day of Service. Proposed and by consensus agreed to try setting dates/times for tours and for community service hours in the fall and inviting school and maybe other groups to come, thus jump-starting both volunteer and nature trail programming. Target audiences could also be approached through organizations’ online services.

President McCurry reported on success with an information table and distribution of surveys at the 4th on 53rd Parade and Picnic in Hyde Park and the Highlands Fling in South Shore. Next would be at the Jazz Unites Festival at South Shore Cultural Center.

Birds. Pat Durkin said that in addition to the Wooded Island group on Wednesdays and Saturdays, groups come from the North Shore and from Indiana. Woodpeckers are nesting. Fall planting is coming-- agreed was to ask the Department of Natural Resources for a Wooded Island Working Group walk though.

Jazz Unites. Donna Hodges gave the history and cultural heritage of the Jazz Festival held next door at South Shore Cultural Center each first weekend of August. One of many featured artists this year will be Curtis Robinson Trio (guitar). One cannot bring food or water, but there will be plenty of vendors. Noted: there used to be jazz concerts on La Rabida-Promontory Circle and the south portico of the Museum.

Long-time member Robert Nelson, at one time manager of the harbors, described the history of drainage, infrastructure, washrooms, and amenities along Jackson Park’s lakefront and offered to help learn the possibility of restoring to service the Columbian Exposition vintage comfort station near La Rabida and the east end of the golf course-- it was in service the 1990s. He also recalled the restoration of the Harbor Station and the 63rd St. Bathing Pavilion 1988-1999. Persons recalled that a public toilets, sitting areas and active spaces disappeared when the harbors were privatized. They asked the council to look into what could be brought back, especially the restaurant in the harbor station.

The council was also asked to redouble collaboration with the yacht and boating clubs in cleanup and community events, and to contact kayak classes. Proposed for exploration was membership swap with the yacht and boating clubs.

Also asked was looking into what can be done to enforce the low-wake channel rules for fishermen safety. Mr. Nelson reminded that harbor maintenance is paid by the federal government, not harbor fees.

President McCurry reported further great progress by volunteers and CPD cleaning and opening up around LaRabida and Promontory Circle, which was continued with a large number of Jesuit student body presidents from around the country (who offered many ideas!) and would continue with another large group from Northwestern University. These are coordinated by CPD staff (who also cleared and removed a great deal) and Friends of the Parks. Some historic lighting poles were discovered. Members were encouraged to come do a follow up on Saturday the 16th 8 a.m. to noon.
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Nature trails. Fran Vandervoort said drafts of self-guided activity and learning tours for various age groups and teacher kits are being vetted with professionals and Park District. Collages of photos are being created. Some of this will require appropriation and fundraising. Moved by Jerry Levy, seconded and approved to appropriate an initial $200 as needed.

Vandervoort said that discretionary expenditures needed for ongoing projects need to be allowable, but with strict guidelines and accounting, as mandated in the bylaws. Jerry Levy moved, Vandervoort seconded, approved that Resolved: Designated persons pursuing JPAC-approved projects may spend, with knowledge of the treasurer, and be reimbursed up to $100 without prior appropriation. Receipts must be shown.

McCurry relayed an inquiry from park staff concerning providing book bags for school for day camp students. In lieu, suggested was investigating pro bono for this or a set of supplies. Moved, seconded, approved to seek such pro bono and that JPAC explore contributing up to $3 per pupil for supplies. Approved.

Sports and Fields/Friends of the Fields. Ram Nair. The committee is working to develop a fair usage schedule to ensure equity among stakeholder users and especially to make sure that neither the community nor the stakeholder soccer and football teams are squeezed out, including by non-permit “leagues.” The area has been fenced off for start of construction.

Jackson Park officers would attend the July 13 Park District Board of Commissioner meetings. All were asked to attend the Park District budget hearings [Area 3 round done, region-level tba.]

The meeting was adjourned c. 9 p.m. Next meeting Monday, August 8, 7:30 p.m. at the fieldhouse. Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary

Sad and Glad: An old snag at the Wooded Island (WI) Rose Garden, with nesting woodpeckers, was blown down by high winds. Trees and shrubs from last year on WI that didn’t make it have been replaced by oaks and others. Check the array of wildflowers and birds in the Rose Garden (the fenced part of southern WI).

Louise McCurry gave a report at the July 18 CPD budget hearing for Area 3 South parks. She stressed dangerous concrete stairs at LaRabida/Promontory and need for repairs to a promenade with standing pools breeding mosquitoes, and for some plantings. People there have no bathroom facilities—one that was working a few years ago could be reopened. Nature area signage and id was requested. A roadway to an active tennis area should be repaired. A fountain with a bowl for dogs and hose attachment is needed near a tennis facility. Clarence Darrow bridge deck needs repair and the north bridge to Wooded Island/Osaka garden repaired.

JPAC has learned that some playgrounds failed a safety survey; at least one is visibly in poor shape.

Volunteer workdays: Bobolink Meadow 2nd Saturdays 9-12. For information call parrybell@comcast.net.
La Rabida/Promontory Circle: gen. 3rd Saturdays 8-12. For information call Louise at 773 844-2225.
Wooded Island: 4th Saturdays 2-5. From Darrow bridge so. of MSI. sjlevy@jeromelevylaw.com.

BEACH CLEAN WITH TOURS, ACTIVITIES being planned...contact Toshia at jpacattack@gmail.com.
We will contact those for whom we have email addresses.

Bird Walks: Weds at 7, Sats at 8 from Darrow Bridge. Special CAPS Aug. 3 at 7, 1818 E. 71st St.
Lawn Bowling and croquet at the green se of MSI. Tom Michael for schedule- 708-366-8228.

Committees/ events calendar is in the new website http://www.jacksonparkadvisorycouncil.org.
TAKE OUR SURVEY ON LINE AT THAT NEW WEBSITE Thanks to all who have taken the paper version. Your comments have made redesign possible. You are welcome to retake the revision online.
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Jackson Park Advisory Council - June 13 2011 Council meeting minutes

President Louise McCurry convened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. in the fieldhouse. Minutes of the April meeting were moved by Fran Vandervoort, 2nd by Jerry Levy and approved. The 18 present introduced themselves, including two new to the council who are involved with the dog park committee. The agenda was adjusted.

Supervisor William Tillis reported and took questions on the park and program. He thanked the council for several donations for programs and the fieldhouse in recent months. The track team was proceeding to city wide completion as defending champions four years running. Spring and summer programs were filling up as they generally do, but there were still some spaces open that youth and families should investigate. Moved by Dwight Powell and seconded by Fran Vandervoort to purchase a trophy display case at reasonable cost. Approved.

Progress has been made on security, but work and vigilance are still needed. He credited cameras including behind the Museum, combined Police and park police patrol—cumulatively 24-hour by now two cars, bikes, and more, and council members’ and public eyes and ears. McCurry noted continuing problems including steps at La Rabida Hospital and nearby Promontory Circle as presenting a safety hazard to patients with their families.

Several excursion and camping programs that teach many skills are coming to the park this summer (see announcements after these minutes- there is room for more area families). Three movies will be shown at the 63rd beach house. Seniors should take advantage of the June 13 1 pm Jackson Park concert by jazz great Ken Chaney and his group from Kennicott Park. Another opportunity is a dog vaccination day coming to Jackson.
McCurry noted that much information about the park and its programs and facilities are online on the park’s section in http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com- look for family programs and search for Jackson, and on our websites. Vandervoort recommended formation of a program committee to establish programs by the council as well as monitor/evaluate/grow park district programs.

Financial. Treasurer Dwight Powell reported membership renewals including a major gift from La Rabida Children’s Hospital. At least one check was turned in at the meeting. The most recent bank balance was $5,724.66. Bank signatures were renewed for this term.

Nature Committee and reports. Norman Bell reported that a section of Bobolink Meadow was seeded. Much has been accomplished on the volunteer workdays (2nd Saturdays 9 am-a little after noon, but Norm and others are on hand nearly every day). Now that it’s spring, garlic mustard has begun to overtake the meadow and has to be pulled before it goes to seed. Some native plants from Michigan are being added to the mix, particularly in the Woods section. Members praised the condition of the meadow.

Fran Vandervoort reported that the nature trail is currently in the idea stage, with low-cost, easily implemented preparatory elements (including virtual) being readied. Members asked when the bike trails, under installation for a year along 63rd St., will be finished and the detour signs removed.

Jerry Levy reported that good-sized volunteer crews have been clearing out trash on Wooded Island. Shrubs and ground cover planted over the past two years are now visible again. Especially fine this year: viburnum, scilla, violets of all colors, and trillium. The next workday was moved to May 21 due to Memorial Day. The park district is working on moving from the park the beaver(s) that destroyed a fine crab among other trees.
A team of volunteers from Friends of the Japanese Garden and contractor Claus Bros. recently planted much including ground cover in Osaka Garden during a festive workday, and new shrubs are blooming. Jerry led an Arbor Day tree species ID and list-making tour April 30—well advertized but sparsely attended.

McCurry reported that much additional garbage was removed around La Rabida. Patients and families are now visiting the wildflower garden, the shore, and the lookout—but the steps at these places are dangerous. Cleaning the west beach (harbor side) is next.

Birds. Jennie Strable reported that crews (unidentified) had been seen pruning hedges after heavy bird migration through the Island had started. (It was suggested that the crew observed was that removing burlap left around the balls of trees planted without removing burlap last December—removal had to be done asap this spring.) 2

Strable offered on behalf of Chicago Audubon a memo with three proposals to avoid or direct operations and disturbances on Wooded Island during bird migration. Most of the migrating species are insect eaters; the insects congregate in sunny, calmer areas, and the birds follow. As a consequence, if work must be done:
(1) work in the west side in the morning, east in the afternoon,
(2) work in windy areas first on a windy day,
(3) in the spring, when strong southwest winds bring in the birds, keep work to a minimum and in the northwest sector only. And use no heavy equipment during the migratory seasons. By consensus, the memo was accepted into the record with appreciation for review and to pass on to the park district.

Strable reported that 96 species were recently counted on just the Island one day. A special walk and count was planned by National Audubon for the next Sunday. Bird walks continue Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Dog park. After a well-attended site visit, supporters agreed on the site and are circulating petitions and seeking letters. The site has been tested with pets and has approval of nearby tennis players. The plan is written including commitment of the volunteer organizations. Dog permits are in progress. Private funds are available for supplies and needs such as an inner gate and corner rounding, and some fence work is being arranged. The path to the site needs improvement.

Security. McCurry reported that patrols mentioned above are in place, and the 3rd District responds well. Experience this spring seems to verify the hunch that sectors where trash and overgrowth are cleared stay nice and have reduced problems. Some areas are difficult—south of Osaka garden trash can be removed, but it’s a natural area with regulated brush policy. Miscreants there are extremely brazen, even during a well attended workday or festival in the garden.

Sports and recreation. McCurry has made a concerted effort to meet with sports and recreation stakeholders and get them involved with the committee (chair Ram Nair- rnair@naircoinc.com). Committee meeting day and time are being adjusted to fit the full play schedule. Speaking of promotion, JPAC volunteers will staff a table at the 57th St. Art Fair and subsequent community events. Teams’ and others’ material will be sought for the table.

McCurry consulted with the lawn bowling and croquet leaders to learn needs, successes at the green and clubhouse. She noted an opportunity to jointly promote these activities and bring more seniors and younger people into the park.

She also consulted with the yacht/boating club commodores and Sea Scouts. Condition of the sea walls is a major concern. McCurry wants to see a coordinated effort including by the clubs etc. to clear accumulating harbor edge garbage and discourage throwing garbage from the boats. For trash in general, the football teams will help with larger objects, and 63rd St. basketball club will keep up its area.

Baseball. Ziff Sistrunk said the teams are very busy playing and also patrol the Stony Island edge of the park for trash from 61st to 64th on weekends and learn stewardship. Four high schools participate- Hyde Park, Corliss, Phillips, and Brooks. Players get certificates. Storage room is needed. One objective is to ensure lots of people will be using and taking care of the track and the Into the Field artificial surface as well as the whole sector around them.

Barry Rapoport offered to bring juggling into the mix. He will coordinate participation in World Juggling Day June 18 at the Frederick Douglass memorial on the path west of the 59th underpass. Still to be met with are adult soccer, tennis, and golf.

Old and new business. Gary Ossewaarde continues to collect support for naming for Nancy Hays.
Vice President Toshia Booker-Blakeley described the Chicago Conservation Corps (C3, associated with the city’s GreenCorps program), with which she is taking training, including from Chicago Park District staff. A particular program that could jump start and dovetail into JPAC’s Nature Trail Initiative includes youth and other volunteers measuring environmental benefits, threats, or impacts in parks—for example of invasive species, or to do asset and community resource mapping. Tentative preference of members was to theme invasives. Toshia was directed (motion Norm Bell, 2nd and approved) to work with Norm Bell to develop a plan and prepare to apply for C3 sponsorship.

The council selected by straw vote an icon design from among several submitted. Fran Vandervoort and Jerry Levy also agreed to work on ordering tee-shirts with the new logo. These would be used by trail guides and possibly workday volunteers. Agreed by consensus. Fran Vandervoort asked for a committee for development, design, and fundraising. The committee will be convened before or arranged at the next meeting. 3

Fran also reported that Park District Historian Julia Bachrach is hosting “What’s Out There” park tours including of Osaka Garden and Wooded Island, June 11-12 weekend. Anyone willing to volunteer as a greeter should contact her at julia.bachrach@chicagoparkdistrict.com. Jerry Levy was among volunteers.

Fran secured gloves for the workdays from Washington Park Conservancy. She was asked to convey thanks.
Questions were raised about the state of the Viking Ship that was sailed to the Columbian Exposition and is now in a park near Geneva, IL, and whether repaired. Also whether Devil in the White City might be filmed partially in the park.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

Jackson Park Advisory Council April 11, 2011 council meeting

President Louise McCurry opened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. a quorum being present (attendance 14).

Treasurer Dwight Powell reported a balance of 5,609.88 plus some dues/contribution checks still to be deposited. Members requested total memberships and dues and contributions so far for this year, which will be supplied. Per March meeting, JPAC purchased a microwave for the fieldhouse, being presented to staff. JPAC was informed of park’s need of a replacement fax machine. Consensus was for JPAC offer to buy; staff will be consulted. Minutes of the March meeting were distributed-accepted later in the meeting. The April newsletters, which had the minutes, were reported gone astray in mailing. (They arrived in mail boxes the next week.)

Jerome Scott, Chicago Park District Forester, described and answered questions about removal last winter of part of the dead trees on Wooded Island. This work was done by Park District crews and its regular contractor with a part done by Care of Trees (the latter donating two days of labor worth c.$10,000 with $2,400 in supplies funded by JPAC.) Scott explained what more is needed, particularly in Bobolink Woods (which is east of the East Lagoon), which has been untouched for some time. He explained that the Care of Trees did excellent work beyond what’s funded by CPD and that such limited removals fit the mission of habitat rehabilitation. Some members were concerned about the amount of removal done in parts of Wooded Island and said care should be taken to leave plenty of places and nooks for birds to use, from the ground upward. They preferred that such removal work be done other than on Wooded Island for now. Bobolink steward Norm Bell noted that the Bobolink wooded area has solid masses of material including bird-inimical honeysuckle that should go, so that a successful woodland habitat can grow. There was general agreement that Wooded Island Working Group needs to look first at what should/shouldn’t be removed on Wooded Island, that there should be a similar careful walkthough in Bobolink, and that Bobolink is the best next candidate for such work. Fran Vandervoort moved, seconded by Norm Bell that JPAC approves appropriating $2,400 toward an agreement with Care of Trees for future work, in accord with above and preview by stakeholders. Approved by majority. CPD was thanked for repairs to the Wooded Island “Rose Garden” fence.

Workdays have commenced. Work April 3 included removal of 27 bags of trash including around and under the Darrow bridge, over to the north bridge to Wooded Island and also in Osaka Garden. There was some progress making spots uninviting as home sites and for illicit activity. Bobolink Meadow cleanup was undertaken on April 9—7 big containers of trash were removed and a quarter acre prepared for native seeding. “Living” sites were remediated to the extent possible. Problems with large puddles in the path and a broken drainage pipe were reported. Security patrols there were said to be working. Much garbage has also been removed around La Rabida, but much remains and paths and concrete there are in very bad shape. There will be an informal workday to do more there the next Sunday afternoon, with a crew from the little league baseball teams (who won a youth of the year award and were on TV.) Ziff Sistrunk took extensive photos of cleanup work and remaining problem areas. Needs, costs for workday gloves and supplies will be presented next mtg.

Security. Michael Taqee, Safety chairman, reported that the 3rd District and Park District police are keeping a close round-the-clock watch on most of the trouble spots, particularly the Island, Bobolink/driving range, and parking lots. The beach house is being taken back, but La Rabida area remains a problem. Police appreciate being kept up to date with where the troublemakers move by hour and as flushed out. Several JPAC individuals or pairs make regular circuits in different parts of the park and report damage, graffiti, and indicators of suspicious activity. The chief liaison with the 3rd District is Sgt. Chapman 312 747-8201. For park district police call Mike Brazell and his staff. Park Supervisor Tillis should be informed of problems- 773 256-0903. 311 and the ward office at 773 324-5555 provide tracking. Use 911 for emergencies or any threatening situation.

Website and e-contact are nearing rollout. McCurry asked $78.00 reimbursement for startup. Moved, 2 seconded by Vandervoort and approved. Online now: Norm Bell’s Bobolink Meadow Volunteer Website, http://home.comcast.net/~normbell43/Bobolink/home.htm--interesting material and links, means of volunteer sign up. Available also: our traditional website and JP sections in the Park District site.

Sports and Fields, Dogs and related. The Dog-friendly and Exercise Area committee has posted invitations for interested residents to visit a candidate location and facility, at an unused court area near 59th Marina west of the Drive, Monday, April 18, 6:30 p.m. Petitions would be available. This committee meets 3rd Mondays- check the regular JPAC website for location of subsequent meetings.

The Sports and Fields Committee, Ram Nair Chairman, will meet monthly, 3rd Sundays at 2 in the fieldhouse starting April 16. They will be inviting all teams, facilities (including golf) and their stakeholders, and yacht clubs, etc. to a general committee meeting to gather wishes and concerns. They also reported they are developing rules and procedures for the to-be-refurbished track and artificial surface field including: parking planned ahead of time, captains each day including for clean up and bottle patrol, no charge for kids. It (and the other fields) must be a good place that all including kids are proud of-- as good as private fields. A major goal is to have kids take ownership and have a stewardship/service role in the park.

Petitions for naming the north bridge to Wooded Island for Nancy Hays continue to gather signatures, and letters or support are being collected. Contact garyossewaarde@yahoo.com.

Condition of birds. Birders said there seem to be a lot of species- 74 on a long circuit April 10, 38 in a short circuit in the Island, including the little blue heron, rare here. (The ever-sited list is 265, 229 on the Island.)

April 30, Saturday, 2-4 p.m. Arbor Day will be celebrated with a Chicago Park District program on Wooded Island. All can learn to identify the trees and fascinating facts, and receive a sapling. Register at 312 747-4914.

Members suggested JPAC hold a festival in the summer, which could include fundraising, also for wellness programs in the park and (more of them?) in the fieldhouse. The program committee will be organized and convened. Work has starting on a survey for park users and friends and a new logo, we were told.

Vandervoort reported on the PAC Conference in March—lots of inspiration, ideas, and questions.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. Next meetings May 9 and June 13.

Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary.

Jackson Park Advisory Council meeting minutes March 14, 2011

Louise McCurry opened the meeting at 7:30 pm. Welcomed were Sgt. Jeffrey Chapman, 3rd District Police CAPS, Joe Kelly of Harold Washington Park, and several members of Chicago Audubon, who were saluted. Continuing success of the Purple Martin houses south of Columbia Basin was noted.

Minutes of the February meeting were accepted as corrected: The recommended book is “Last Child in the Woods,” by Richard Louv.

McCurry and others commended those including site stewards Jerome Levy and Gail Parry and Norman Bell who cleaned up much trash around the lagoons and natural area- planned to continue with two clean up days, March 26 morning on the Island and April 9 in Bobolink Meadow. Noted was the birthday today of Minnesota Twins baseball star Kirby Puckett, who grew up in Chicago and for whom is named the boys and girls club that has organized teams under Chicago Metro Baseball. The teams led by Ziff Sistrunk will start playing in Jackson Park April 15. (Visit http://www.eteamz.com.)

Park Safety and Security. Sgt. Jeffrey Chapman, director of District 003 CAPS (Community Alternative Policing Strategy). The discussion was positive. He, Rosalind Moore of 5th Ward Office, and the audience discussed strategies, achievements and challenges in the park and specific problem areas. At work: cameras (some new), cars, lakefront teams, night patrol, police on bikes, plainclothes, and helicopters (summer). Cameras unless with blue lights are park district. Police were commended for improvement in specific areas. Sometimes prioritization prevents the quickest possible response. The various parties will work on coordination. Closing the park timely remains a priority.

Among problem locations for which the council asked increased attention: Wooded Island including by the old rose garden (numerous arrests were made), 63rd St. Beach house (where gang damage has been severe to the pavilion and the new playground), the Driving Range, Promontory Circle near La Rabida, and the lagoon west edge. Recurrence of homeless under the Darrow Bridge and the damage wrought was noted—this is also an important roosting spot for swallows. 3rd District can increase patrols with plain clothes and regular patrols, night shift and will pay close attention to these areas,

Whom to call: 911 or 311 (depending on the circumstances i.e. for graffiti), Sgt. Chapman/3rd District at 312 747-8201 or 312 747-7004, Supervisor William Tillis 773 256-0903, 5th Ward Office at 773 324-5555. Call promptly, use redundancy.

Park and Program. Park Supervisor Tillis discussed the variety of sports opportunities- gymnastics, tumbling, lifting and fitness, basketball, medley, cheerleading, soccer, volleyball, track, baseball and softball, piano, and seniors aerobics/dancing. The latter will include jazz by Ken Chaney 2nd Mondays early afternoon April-June.

Soccer fields will be shut down in rotation to give the grass a chance to re-grow. Exact dates, fields will be announced.
A sports and fields committee has been formed to make decisions on the upgrades and artificial surface at the 62nd track to avoid having competing donated projects cancel each other and waste money and to bring in all concerns including that lights might shine into residential. buildings. Anyone who wants to contribute should contact Mr. Tillis. Coach Ram Nair will chair. An ongoing problem is that players will not take off their cleat shoes before crossing the track. See more on the committee near end of these minutes.

Financial. An additional $2,210 ($1,610 net) came in bringing the balance to $5,410.63. Total 2011 gifts c. $2,800. Donations included a $250 restricted gift from Hyde Park Bank for the Trail project. The University of Chicago Civic Engagement gave $1,500 and $100. La Rabida Children’s Hospital gave $100. JPAC thanks all!

Wooded Island, Nature. A walk through was held in response to an opportunity and concerns regarding the fence around the tallgrass prairie (former Rose Garden) and to have a look around and answer other questions. Present were reps. of the Park District, JPAC (including site stewards), and some of the birding groups. The main recommendation of the body reported to JPAC was to do only necessary repairs to the fence. Moved, seconded and approved that JPAC accept the recommendation and the offer of Michael Taqee, should the Park District agree, to make the repairs including removal of a leaning tree.* Pat Durkin of Chicago Audubon’s committee thanked JPAC for leaving the fence. JPAC accepted into the record a fine paper by Paul Clyne on how fences serve birds. Jerry Levy reported on plantings on and near the Island including large caliper trees, the need for a beautiful welcoming sign for the Douglas Nature Sanctuary, and a work day for Saturday 3/26. There was general desire that we start calling the “Rose Garden” by a new and more descriptive name. It is one of the most productive parts of the Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary on Wooded Island. Noted also with appreciation: other generously sized new trees in JP.
[* Fence repairs were made by CPD in-house.]

Gail Perry and Norman Bell reported on the TreeKeepers program and need to work with the park district to ensure good tree management, and a Work Day for April 9th at 9 am with TreeKeeper volunteers invited.

Fran Vandervoort reported on planning and grant application for the interactive Nature Trail. A part of this includes a dynamic-type website being prepared by Eric Annafi and Robert McCurry.

A new baseball league is coming to Jackson Park starting April 15, under Chicago Metro Baseball and sponsored by Kirby Puckett Boys and Girls Club. Ages are 8-12 and 16 and up, girls as well as boys. Games are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. They are raising funds on CAN TV, a 12 week program which would highlight the baseball program for kids in the park, and would include JPAC and the need for volunteers to help in the park. Leader Ziff Sistrunk asked that JPAC sponsor. Moved-seconded-approved $100 appropriation including membership in the Club.

It was noted that there are no lighted baseball fields in South Side parks. The council wants a comprehensive look at all the diamonds and fields in the park. Partly to do that and to look into the artificial surface and track questions,
The Sports and Fields Committee will meet on Sunday March 20 at 2 pm at the field house Members are Sreeram Nair (chair), Louise McCurry, Ziff Sistrunk, Ernest Radcliff, Billy Bean, Tommy Lockett, Jamal Ashley, and Jenny Strable (representing residents who live near the fields.) Think you need to be on this committee? Call Mr. Tillis 773 256-0930.

Fran Vandervoort reported on the upcoming March 19 Friends of the Parks PAC conference at the South Shore Cultural Center. Fran was to present a workshop. Other members would go and attend the varied breakout sessions.
Fran will add a copy of Last Child into The Woods to Our JPAC Library and Mr. Tillis agreed to give us space in the basement for our Library and files.
March 19 would also see the start of Washington Park’s 3rd Saturday workdays to be followed on following weeks by a naturalist and gardening lecture series. Their workdays are third Saturday mornings.

Arrangements were made for the new microwave for the fieldhouse. Additional quick needs are being tallied.

A Woodlawn Summit was announced for March 26 9-11:30 at Social Service Administration, 969 E. 60th (reg. required).

Seniors fitness program Mondays at 1 pm includes on 2nd Mondays Ken Chaney jazz April-June. [June Willie White blues?]

The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Next meetings April 11, May 9.
Respectfully submitted- Gary M. Ossewaarde
_____________________________________
WE APOLOGIZE TO THOSE WHO SHOWED UP FOR A WORKDAY THAT WAS CANCELLED. The fence repair that was the main purpose was on short notice scheduled to be done in house by the park district for the next week. We are most grateful to the District for doing this work. JPAC will make sure that someone comes in case of cancelled workdays. We and CPD ask that volunteers check in with the site steward a day or so ahead.

JACKSON PARK VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS ARE IN FULL SWING! Those who provide email will be notified of extra days or cancellations.

4/9. BOBOLINK MEADOW work is on 2ND SATURDAY MORNINGS, 9-12 a.m. The next is on APRIL 9. Please be sure to check in ahead of time with site stewards Norman Bell and Gail Perry at parrybell@comcast.net or 773 288-1260. Meet in the south meadow near the Golf Driving Range, accessed off Hayes Drive.

4/23. WOODED ISLAND work is on 4TH SATURDAY AFTERNOONS, 2-5 p.m. The next is on APRIL 23. Please be sure to check in ahead of time with site steward Jerry Levy at sjlevy@jeromelevylaw.com or 312 832-1616 12-5 pm weekdays or 773 955-6384 evenings and weekends. Meet at Darrow Bridge south of the Museum of Science and Industry pond. Parking is available in the lot east of Darrow Bridge ($1 per hour) accessed from Lake Shore Drive at 5800- veer left at the Museum lot.
_________________

April 16 Earth Day. Visit http://www.earthdaychicago.com. Reg. by April 11. Clean and Green call 311 or ward off.
April 30, May 8 (and April 16?) Adopt-a-Beach™ for 63rd Beach. Info http://www.greatlakes.org All. for the Gt. Lkes.

April 30, Saturday, 12-2 pm. ARBOR DAY on Wooded Island. Learn to ID the variety of trees, get a sapling. REG. REQ. and details 312 747-4914.
Gather with the birders Saturdays at 8, for a walk around Wooded Island. Gather at Darrow Bridge.
Save the date May 7 9 am. TreeKeeper master class, mulching at Nichols Park with CPD. All skills. JPACers invited.

Trail. JPAC was not awarded the two grants for which it applied for the Interactive Nature Trail. We are grateful for consideration of our requests- and for work expended! We will forge ahead thanks to planned generous habitat work by Chicago Park District, other funds including from The University of Chicago and Hyde Park Bank, and sweat equity.
Any are welcome to make an earmarked contribution for the Trail or a general contribution. You can get a form from garyossewaarde@yahoo.com and or send your check to JPAC c/o Dwight Powell, 7206 S. Luella, Chicago, IL 60649. For information about the Trail (plans being updated) contact Frances S. Vandervoort, 773 752-8374.

A new mosaic by Montgomery Place residents under artist Mirtes Zwyerzynski and derived from displays at the Museum of Science and Industry is being readied for the underpass of 57th Drive. Thanks to Chicago Public Art Group and Harper Court Arts Council. Visit the mural by school children, previously installed under the Lake Shore Dr. viaduct.

Member Charlotte Newfeld of the Lakeview Citizens’ Council commends our effort to have the north bridge to Wooded Island named on behalf of Nancy Hays. Letters of support are being collected. Contact Gary Ossewaarde.

The March 9, 2011 Wooded Island walkthrough

By Gary M. Ossewaarde, Jackson Park Advisory Council Secretary

A walk through was held March 9, 2011 10 a.m. on Wooded Island (Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary) that included Zhanna Yermakov and Jason Steger of CPD, reps. of Jackson Park Advisory Council and its committees, members from Wooded Island Working Group, and several representing birding groups that/who may or may not be part of WIWG. Zhanna designated this is not a WIWG walk through but a special walk through about the Rose Garden fence, called by JPAC.

Most agreed that the primary use of most of Wooded Island is as one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Midwest, although some insisted this is not the an exclusive purpose. Studies were cited showing that the most ecologically significant and productive part of Wooded Island is the former Rose Garden- surrounded by the fence at issue.

Although some continued to express questions about policy or the effects of past and planned habitat work--all of which will be visited and addressed on an ongoing basis, the issue addressed today was the fence around the former Rose Garden.

Points of either consensus or continued review appeared to be the following:

Jackson Park Advisory Council meeting of February 14, 2011

Louise McCurry opened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Minutes of the January meeting were approved as presented.

Matthew Freer, Chicago Park District Senior Program Specialist in Nature and Cultural Programs, presented. Offerings in outdoor education for ascending ages include Toddlers, Tunes and Turtles; Urban Campers (ages 9-12, have camped at Osaka Garden); Day Camp Field Trips (ages 10-13), Family Overnighters, and field trips including for 2,500 in Jackson and several other parks.

Matthew’s illustrated talk showed ways to cope with a well-researched changed landscape for children, who are in many ways separated from direct experiences with nature and experiences that enhance fitness and wellness including emotional. Many misconceptions and excuses contribute to this, starting with a perception that the outdoors is especially dangerous. Materials prepared with Chicago Wilderness and available to parents describe some strategies to overcome such problems, under the rubrics “Leave No Child Inside,” “Passport to Nature,” and “Outdoor Bill of Rights-What Every Child Should Be Able to Do.” One resource is Richard Louv’s “Last Child in the Woods.”

Freer described specific ways trails grow learning abilities as well as fitness in children and adults, giving as a example improvements (including reduced crime through people presence) when neighbors of a Milwaukee park in a neighborhood like those around Jackson Park built a nature trail and center. Friends of the Chicago River “leave no trace” canoe training could be brought to the basin, fishing programs such as could be enhanced or brought in, and trail exercise station programs such as Inter-recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) could be set up in appropriate parts of a park. Mr. Freer was much thanked for his presentation. JPAC will call upon the resources of his department.

Introductions were made, showing, McCurry pointed out, that all have skills, experiences, and interests to bring to the park and to JPACs’ committees to make a difference. She said it is important to build relationships with the park supervisor and staff as they know who we need to talk to about the many aspects and issues of the park. New attendees included Jerry Levy, who has entered the process to become Wooded Island steward, and Carolyn? Morris, who works with a mentoring and anti-violence program for young women.

Park. William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, talked about program, noting that spring with its sports programs brings in the most kids. Staff is visiting area schools. The essay contest program was two-thirds complete; he showed the trophies that JPAC funded. Andrea Frink revealed her “shopping list” for the fieldhouse. Fran Vandervoort moved, with second, that JPAC appropriate $200 for a microwave oven for the fieldhouse. Unanimously approved.

Jackson Park Nature Trail planning was described and discussed. Fran Vandervoort said components (some near term and some later) include way finding and descriptive signage, trail and habitat enhancement in Wooded Island, Bob-o-link and linking the two and means to maintain these, educational materials and programs, and a dedicated, interactive website. Explained and discussed were a prepared grant proposal to be soon submitted to a local organization, a “seed grant” proposal to Friends of the Parks, a generous Chicago Park District match, and potential other partnerships, all covering different or overlapping components. Motion was made by Michael Taqee and seconded by Norman Bell to approve the nature trail concept and the grant applications. Unanimously approved.

Ziff Sistrunk discussed formation of a sports committee that would coordinate the fields and bring into the discussion the needs and issues of the varied recreational facilities teams and user groups in Jackson Park (including golf and boating). He has photos, and would take more, of the various facilities. His observation was that much is falling apart.

Announcements included awards received by Gary Ossewaarde and Tim Black from Friends of the Parks (Ossewaarde showed his very nice plaque); annual dinner HP Historical Society which has a great interest in the park.

Walk throughs of the natural and related areas of the parks will be held by the Wooded Island Working Group as plans develop or concerns arise.

The council continues to explore conditions, best practices, and appropriate locations for dog parks—the committee was scheduled to meet February 21 at 7 pm at the fieldhouse.

The fundraising committee is developing a plan. Those interested should contact Judith Hill via Gary Ossewaarde.

Chicago Park District and Friends of the Parks hosts its annual resource Conference for park council members Saturday, March 19, 9-2 at South Shore Cultural Center. Register with stonem@fotp.org or dana.andrews@chicagoparkdistrict.com. (Included: illustrated talk on Jackson and Washington Parks by Fran Vandervoort).

Jackson Park Advisory Council January 13 council meeting minutes

A newly formed bulletin board committee reported a monthly schedule of topics for features to serve as teaching tools in JPAC’s bulletin board in the south hallway. Topics ranged from persons (currently Nancy Hays) to nature (such as the oaks and birds on Wooded Island) and sports. More topics were suggested. (The bulletin board also is to include notices of meetings/actions and the Newsletter.)

Discussed was an idea for a self-guided nature tour using trails including in Wooded Island. There might be identification signage, brochures that could be picked up or distributed, and disposable cameras for kids. Fran Vandervoort and others are exploring grants and park district receptiveness to the nature trail idea.
McCurry, Vandervoort and others met with Rosalind Moore of the 5th Ward Office (and Ms. Moore consulted with Park District officers including the region manager) on matters including the process for naming the Wooded Island bridge for Nancy Hays, pursuant to a JPAC resolution passed in December. They are proceeding with paperwork and the gathering of community and stakeholder support. This will include a letter of support from the council with details of the request and why the nominee deserves such recognition. Members were assigned to contact specific groups and stakeholders.

Vandervoort gave a heads up that the Friends of the Japanese Garden is considering one or more festivals or activities for Osaka Garden this year, in which JPAC might participate.

Also per JPAC resolution, potential for a dog-friendly area is being explored, perhaps near the 59th tennis court/inlet harbor sector. The procedure is known and who might have a concern or objection. Those exploring understand the many requirements for approval, the need for caretaking agreements, the costs, and suitability for dogs of different kinds of facilities. Someone would have to start a study and seek grants if interested in such a facility.
Natural areas. Questions were asked about the extent of plant removals in Wooded Island planned this year and beyond, effects of past phased habitat reconstruction, and about relationships between ongoing needs of bird and wildlife the plan’s species for replanting. [Plans can be seen in the JPAC website at http://www.hydepark.org/birds/Woodedsum.htm.] Attention was called to an interesting site called Natural History Chicago (http://www.naturalhistorychicago.com) by Jane Masterson. It has wildlife pictures.

The secretary was asked to inquire of the park district and Care of Trees concerning cost sharing for work this year or next.

Time was directed to be set aside at a later meeting to discuss feasibility and desirability of new facilities in the park, for example a presidential library.

Friends of the Parks will present achievement awards to community and park activist, teacher and historian Timuel D. Black and to JPAC Secretary Gary Ossewaarde February 3 at its annual luncheon at the Chicago Cultural Center. (This event has a cost and deadline – call 312 857-2757 or visit http://www.fotp.org.)

The next issue of the 5th Ward Newsletter will include a feature on Jackson Park and JPAC.

One or more JPAC committees may meet before or after regular meetings in various months.

Being planned – a major community meeting on Jackson Park security. The 5th Ward office will help with invitation to police, stakeholders, and community. All are encouraged to come and bring friends. Date and details will be announced in the next newsletter.

The meeting was adjourned about 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary

Interim president Louise McCurry convened the meeting at 7:30 pm, a quorum being present. Excused absence: Treasurer Dwight Powell. Minutes of the November meeting were presented by Gary Ossewaarde and approved as distributed. There was no financial report. Members and attendees introduced themselves and their park interests and several submitted their membership applications at the meeting.

Election of Officers. Procedures were explained and ballots were distributed to qualified voters. Elected to a one-year term: Louise McCurry, President; Toshia Booker-Blakeley, Vice President; Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary; Dwight Powell, Treasurer. Ballots were counted by Kevin Quinn and Ram Nair and results announced later in the meeting.

Announcements on trees and natural areas. McCurry announced that lost and at-end-of-their-lifetime willows along the lagoon will be replaced, thus following Frederick Law Olmsted’s template and vision of vista along the lagoons.
Trees near Cornell/57th Drive (Museum curve) that were removed because of poor condition will be replaced with trees removed for construction in another park or otherwise having generous diameters.

A homeless person has returned, who has been observed setting fires under the Darrow Bridge in trash cans taken from elsewhere in the park. The situation has been reported to proper authorities and such will receive regular council monitoring. Bridge condition was examined by an ironwork expert and shown to CPD.

Ample birds have been reported on Wooded Island, particularly in underbrush. The potential for more tours including for school youth was discussed.

Bylaws. Ossewaarde introduced the finalized draft and reviewed the background and changes made. Moved, seconded and passed to remove and hold back for inquiry a clause in Article six Section 2 referring to holding office in more than one council, with consensus opposing that provision. Moved by Fran Vandervoort, seconded by Judith Hill and unanimously approved to adopt the revised bylaws draft 8(a) as amended above. Vandervoort praised the assistance the committee (she and Ossewaarde) received pro bono from Attorney Roger M. Huff. Instruction was given to the Secretary to write him a letter of acknowledgement and thanks. [Former and new bylaws and changes (including clean copy of new—to be prepared) can be seen at the fieldhouse or downloaded at http://www.hydepark.org/parks/jpac/bylawsnew.htm. Or for hard copy call Gary Ossewaarde at 773 288-8343.]

Report and action on the Wooded Island Walkthrough. A walkthrough of JPAC members with Chicago Park District staff, particularly Adam Schwerner, Director of Natural Resources) and stakeholders was arranged by JPAC so we could see conditions and what work has been and is to be done where, and why. Also, concerns were being brought to JPAC about work in at the west side of the “Rose Garden”. At the walkthrough, the diverse group that braved a cold day asked and had answered many questions. An updated plan for phased removals and plantings was in progress (sent later- see in http://www.hydepark.org/parks/birds/Woodedsum.htm). All acknowledged that habitat establishment and maintenance is a long-range commitment. Work that The Care of Trees did removing select downed tree material and growth choking out oaks was also reviewed with the park forester Jerome Scott. Encouraging was that oak saplings are coming back in thinned areas. By the “Rose Garden” White Mulberry trees had been removed, contributing to a stark look due largely to seasonal plant dieback---the mulberries will be replaced with suitable species. Observed: need for attention and planning for tree stands outside the natural areas proper and potential for aquatic and lagoon edge plantings.

Recommendation from the c. 8 JPAC members from the walkthrough was that the Wooded Island Working Group is a good vehicle for ongoing oversight in which JPAC should participate and that the updated management plan is good. Vandervoort moved and McCurry seconded: JPAC will participate in the Wooded Island Working Group; we expect the Park District to come to JPAC when it wants to make major plan revisions, and JPAC endorses the updated plan. Noted was need to recruit a permanent site steward or stewards. McCurry will serve as interim planner and recruiter of volunteers; Gail Parry and Norman Bell will do the same for Bob-o-link Meadow. The nature committee was asked to meet and among other tasks develop work, skills and priorities lists and volunteer candidates.

Consensus-- defer contracting with Care of Trees this winter because our balance would become too low.

Committees. The following expressed interest in specific committees. Safety/security: Michael Taqee, Coach Foster Williams, Ossewaarde and a couple of others. Youth and Programs. Amy Dworsky, Williams (track and football, mentoring), Ram Nair (soccer), McCurry (soccer). Outreach, Membership, Fundraising. Booker-Blakeley, Judith Hill, Ossewaarde and others. Nature etc. McCurry, Bell, Parry, Kevin Quinn (trees), Booker-Blakeley, Hill, Vandervoort. Esther Schechter and Zelia Stevens will continue to do observation and walks through the park.
2
Artificial surface field. A report (avail. on request) was distributed by Ossewaarde on a community meeting. One of the coaches present (Foster Williams?) described and endorsed the proposal as beneficial. Ossewaarde also passed around a letter of provisional support the officers agreed to supply, this being needed last week. Endorsement was conditional on action by this meeting. There was discussion of locations in or near the running track; consensus was in favor of the public and team endorsed location inside the track unless the proposal is changed. The park district has recommended Jackson Park and is seeking a grant (the field will be privately funded), expecting work to start quickly. Extensive upgrade is already underway at the track. Moved, seconded and passed to endorse the proposal. [details and referenced report in artificial field page.]

Park District budget. McCurry and Ossewaarde attended a workshop and question session with CPD budget head Stephen Hughes, convened by Friends of the Parks. Cuts are being made across the system. Maintaining program to the extent possible and deploying it according to demand and the needs and income of various neighborhoods was laid out as priority, but challenged by attendees there. Concern was expressed that some programs including in Jackson may not be filled because of high fees or inability to hire enough staff. McCurry cautioned against park district intent to sell advertising in parks around certain facilities.

Park conditions. The coaches and other observers said field conditions are “lousy”. The immediate cause was said to be that unregistered groups with a “don’t care” attitude come and use the fields and not enough security is present to get them out. Consensus was to go to various authorities and insist on enforcement. On the other hand, sophisticated police action had reduced illegal activities in some parts of the park, though whether sustainably remains to be seen. Various persons were assigned various contacts on safety; coordination would be sought through the 5th Ward office.

Dog friendly area? A location was suggested by McCurry, far from natural areas or other facilities for which such an area would create a nuisance. Moved by McCurry, seconded by Quinn to investigate feasibility and interest.

Dues. Moved by McCurry, seconded and approved that dues be $25 individual, $35 organization. JPAC funds too low and we have a new mission; nec. for fundraising campaign [Bylaws req. rec. only; vote at a future mtg.]

Confirmed: meeting date continues to be 2nd Mondays until annual review next November (per new bylaws).
Next meeting January 10.
Meeting adjourned 9:10 p.m.

Jackson Park Advisory Council minutes of the November 8, 2010 meeting (with announcements)

Coming events – community meeting, Wooded Island walkthrough…
November 23, Tuesday, 6 p.m. Artificial surface field proposal community mtg.- 6401 S. Stony Island
November 26, Friday, 10 a.m. A walkthrough of Wooded Island and nearby re safety/security and natural areas care. Meet in the parking lot south of the Museum and east of Darrow Bridge. Q? 773 288-8343.
December 13 council meeting- See provisional agenda on the front page.

Jackson Park Advisory Council November 8 2010 meeting minutes

Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary convened the meeting at 7:30 p.m. with f Treasurer Dwight Powell. A quorum was present.

Minutes of the October meeting were accepted.

Treasurer’s report. Dwight Powell reported two deposits, one expenditure (park kids). Fiscal agent pay’t was made.

Election to fill two vacant offices for the next month only was held due to requir’t for timely notice for an annual election. Elected by secret ballot were Louise McCurry, interim president and Toshia Booker-Blakeley, interim vp. Agreed that the general election will be held December 13. Nominees remain as from the October meeting:

Bylaws. Revised bylaws draft 7 was distributed with a key/finding aid. Five additional changes were read, moved and unanimously approved. An additional change regarding procedure for vacancies without a formal resignation and regarding officer non-attendance at two consecutive meetings was outlined and approved. Moved, seconded approved to provisionally approve draft 7 and all proposed additional changes, and for the committee (Gary Ossewaarde and Fran Vandervoort) to confer with the attorney and prepare and consolidate all approved changes into a draft for final vote December 13. That draft, current bylaws, and approved changes can be accessed from http://www.hydepark.org/parks/jpac/bylawsnew.htm and posted in the fieldhouse. Those who want it mailed were advised to contact the secretary at garyossewaarde@yahoo.com or leave a message at 773 288-8343.

Communications. A letter from Zhanna Yermakov, Chicago Park District Natural Resources, was read. It countered a statement in the October Newsletter citing former JPAC President Ross Petersen that many planted saplings on Wooded Island were not watered and had died. The letter states that “all the new trees were watered regularly, and out of more than 100 trees, 5 did not survive. These trees are under warranty and will be replaced next spring. We also had tremendous success with our planting over 300+ native shrubs” and notes that seeds of invasive plants will continue to germinate from the soil and will be removed as they sprout.

Jerome Scott, Park District Forester, relayed that the council needs to quickly decide and communicate its level of priority and commitment to natural areas care, in terms of committee, regular volunteers and groups that can be recruited to help, and site steward(s). In addition, he reported that he has been in discussion with Care of Trees, which would like to again do tree clearance on the Island. The council agreed that the nature committee will make a recommendation to the next meeting. Members noted that the anticipated council contribution (c. $2,400) would come leave only a few hundred dollars in our bank balance. However, our annual fundraising mailing is imminent.

Park safety and security. The committee and officers were instructed to gather information on what the problems are in what parts of the park and a possible agenda, hold a walk through including in Wooded Island, and work with the 5th Ward Office to convene a meeting of responsible stakeholders and police agencies on park security.

Announcements and information included that we should expect to find work in progress by CDOT on park paths and trails especially along Marquette Road. Noted: JPAC vetted and approved the plans several years ago.

It is park budget time and officers are to take a close look to make sure staffing and standards are maintained.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Next meeting December 13, 7:30 p.m. 6401 S. Stony Island.

Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

The meeting was held on a special day due to Columbus Day and officer availability. The meeting was convened by Secretary Gary Ossewaarde with assistance of Dwight Powell, the other officer present. There were 19 attendees and a quorum of those qualified to vote under attendance provisions of the present bylaws. The meeting agreed to suspend previous-attendance requirement due to the special circumstances of the meeting. It was explained that two officers, Vice President Fran Vandervoort and President Ross Petersen had recently resigned. Fran had formerly submitted her resignation, accepted at the September meeting. Although Ross had not submitted a letter, he left a clear message and also gave his resignation and the reasons therefore clearly in the media, with no word to the contrary. The exemplary work of both, especially of Ross was described. Members suggested a formal resignation be asked but is not required and determined that the offices are vacant and that according to bylaws they should proceed to fill the positions.

Following introductions of attendees (from all the neighborhoods surrounding the park), the September minutes by Gary Ossewaarde were approved as presented and summarized.

The financial report was presented by Treasurer Dwight Powell. As of September 30, balance was $3,206.67. Powell was asked to review major expenses to date. These included last fall $2,400 to Care of Trees for removals in Wooded Island, a spring lecture by mycologist Greg Mueller (cost a few hundred) and various for Park Kids activities. $1,000 had been budgeted for Park Kids scholarships. Operational costs were recited and noted as unsustainable without help of Museum of Science and Industry and others pro bono. Need to start the 2011 dues/fundraising was stressed.

Eric Hammond, Jackson Park fieldhouse recreation leader, gave the park and program report in the absence of Supervisor William Tillis. The Junior Bears are in the playoffs. Upon suggestion that help would be nice for the Halloween party for 50-60 kids, Louise McCurry moved with second that $200 be appropriated. Unanimously approved.

Moved, seconded, approved to proceed to nominations. Officers and other experienced members reviewed the responsibilities of park councils and recent JPAC accomplishments, such as the Frederick Douglass monument project. This was followed by distribution of PAC membership applications and sign up sheets for four identified committees: Membership, Natural Areas/Upkeep, Program, and Security. Nominees for office (alphabetic):

Ossewaarde distributed the latest annotated draft of revised bylaws, by committee of Fran Vandervoort and Gary Ossewaarde with assistance of experienced attorney Roger Huff, consulting Chicago Park District Guidelines. Some areas for further visitation were identified with expectation that language will be brought to the next meeting.

Natural areas and plans were discussed. Some of the concerns and critiques by Ross Petersen were set forth and two members of the volunteer workday team discussed them. Jerome Scott, CPD Park Forester explained the natural areas protocol and the template that was developed with much community and expert consultation and distinguished between removals and plantings. He said the PD is serious about implementing plans—properly--and needs volunteers and a site steward to work and oversee. He explained how one qualifies and becomes a site steward and urged people to apply (two persons or more sharing the post is acceptable.) There is a new Natural Areas Coordinator, to whom one applies. Scott said the dune project by the 63rd pavilion is going very well.

Members described inconveniences and impracticalities for park users from the paid parking and opined that the lakefront should be a free-use resource.
Concerns were expressed that recent changes in police deployment would lead to return of bad conditions the police had begun seriously addressing.

Rosalind Moore of the 5th Ward Office offered to facilitate a small meeting with the police and others with responsibility for public safety. Rosalind also said that the Alderman relies on JPAC to support a strong park, evaluate proposals, and serve as early warning.

The meeting was adjourned to November 8.
Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

Jackson Park needs you now

This summer Jackson Park Advisory Council Vice president Fran Vandervoort and this month President Ross Petersen resigned and laid down their considerable responsibilities as officers of JPAC. We want the community to know that they left responsibly and with good will. We are concerned when persons decide to leave, whether out of frustration over park matters or council weaknesses.

The membership will greatly miss both Ross and Fran and greatly appreciates their work on behalf of JPAC and the park. Over 15 years Ross shared or held leadership and twice-monthly gathered volunteers and organizations--despite inevitable and all frustrations--to maintain the natural areas and implement a widely agreed upon plan for healthy habitat in the Wooded Island. This volunteer assistance to the park district and its contractors is necessary to this park. Ways must be found to reconstitute it for the next year.

Our officers past and continuing worked very hard with park’s supervisor, district officers, generous private parties, Friends of the Parks, and elected officials including our alderman-- in the face of numerous increasing challenges and declining budgets in our parks. We believe we can count more successes than disappointments, but now is the time to raise rather than lower the bar.

We thank the many who have joined or contributed to JPAC and/or worked in the park, including the Friends of the Japanese Garden
Jackson Park Advisory Council needs more members, new officers, adoption of new bylaws, and new community input so it can continue to monitor, plan and advise for the park and sponsor needs and projects in the park. This is the path to strengthening the park as an asset to its three neighborhoods and people throughout the South Side. We have been assured by park and elected officials of their concern at this time. But if we expect them to serve our parks in informed and serious ways, we have to bring neighbor involvement and set complacency aside.

We are asking neighbors, block clubs, and organizations to attend and bring their ideas-- and willingness to go to work-- to our next council meeting, which will not be on the usual 2nd Monday but on Wednesday, October 13, 7:30 p.m. at the fieldhouse, 6401 S. Stony Island. Let’s get started.

Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary, Dwight Powell, Treasurer

Jackson Park Advisory Council Minutes of the September 13, 2010 JPAC meeting

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:30 pm.

The minutes of the June meeting were approved as revised in the August Newsletter.

Vice president Fran Vandervoort submitted her letter of resignation in June, effective in July, and duly removed her name as a financial signatory at our bank. Filling the vacancy was placed on the October agenda. Moved and approved by consensus were the following officers as fiscal signatories: Dwight Powell, Ross Petersen, Gary Ossewaarde, who were instructed to tend to registration with the bank and with our fiscal agent Friends of the Parks.

Discussed was difficulty finding a low-cost off-site place for special council meetings and lectures and to have such in order to increase membership. Also discussed was ways to encourage more frequent attendance from Park District staff above the park level.

Ossewaarde reported on a visit he and Friends of the Parks staff including Maria D. Stone to a number of places in the park, including the new playground east of the 63rd St. Bathing Pavilion and the dune and swale habitat reconstruction, the former being diligently constructed and the latter looking good and with someone working on it.

Petersen reported that many of the saplings planted in Wooded Island this year were not watered and have died.

Published in lieu of the June minutes (next) in the August 2010 Newsletter: (there was no meeting in July)

Copies of the June minutes will be available at the August 9 meeting, online [here] or by email request via garyossewaarde@yahoo.com.

The Secretary regrets an omission from the previously published June 2010 (July Newsletter) draft minutes and amends them as follows: “Fran Vandervoort circulated her letter of resignation as vice president and nature committee co-chair, effective July 11.” The council is always sad to see an officer leave, but we are especially thankful and grateful for Fran’s dedicated and important service to Jackson Park and the council, and we look forward to her continued participation.

News.

From the preliminary budget hearing: Work is expected to commence shortly on repairs and reconstruction to several park paths.

Lots of plants have gone into the natural areas. Thanks to the large crews including from Chicago Cares for the volunteer workdays.

63rd St. Beach parking lot: 100 spaces are available for free parking early morning - early evening. First come.

Safety in the park is everyone’s business- If you see something, call 911! Thanks to police, Alderman Hairston’s office, Chicago Park District Natural Resources and Aramark crews, and city departments for their efforts related to safety. Also related to safety, expect work on park paths.

Events in and about the park and nearby

August 7-8, Saturday and Sunday. South Shore Annual JazzFest. South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 South Shore Drive. Bring chairs only. 773 734-2000, http://www.jazzunitesinc.org.

August 19, Thursday, 11 am. 5th Ward Seniors at the Jackson Park Harbor. Call 773 324-5555- there is a bus from the ward office.

August 28, Saturday, 2-5 pm. Volunteer Activity, Japanese gardening class, Taiko and other drumming- Wooded Island Osaka Garden. Friends of the Japanese Garden. Their website is https://sites.google.com/site/friendsofthejapanesegarden/home.

August 29, Sunday, 11 am-4 pm. 5th Ward Back to School Picnic. With entertainment. At 63rd St. beach house.

SEPTEMBER 7, Tuesday, 6 pm. South Region Chicago PARK DISTRICT BUDGET HEARING. Bring your ideas and concerns. South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive.

September 12, Sunday. Chicago Half Marathon and 5K. From the South Shore Cultural Center and including Jackson Park. Call the ward office for info. 773 324-5555.

Ongoing:
Volunteer Workdays- Habitat maintenance in the Natural Areas 2nd and 4th Saturdays 10-1 to late fall. Meet at the Darrow Bridge south of Museum of Science and Industry (parking east of the bridge). Call Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505. Help one of the largest nature areas in the city!

Join fellow bird and nature watchers in a walk though Wooded Island Saturdays, 8 am. Meet at the Darrow Bridge. Through New Years!

Check out lawn bowling or croquet at the bowling green, weekends and Tuesday nights. Southwest of the Museum at Lake Shore Drive.

[Item removed- Farmers market is not being held at the Museum this year.]

Jackson Park Advisory Council meeting minutes June 14 2010 (published in the July newsletter)

Fran Vandervoort opened the meeting at 7:40 p.m., President Ross Petersen being unable to attend.

A quorum was present. BIG Baseball communicated they will come and report as soon as their plan is ready.

Paul Grabowski, site steward for the 63rd Street Beach dune and seasonal swale construction gave a PowerPoint presentation and took questions. Paul is a graduate student in ecology at University of Chicago who has done extensive field work in the Indiana Dunes, known for tremendous variability of climate and of microclimates within a few feet and for its variety of plant life that is both very hardy and adaptable, holding up well to frequent shifting of sand and landforms.

The project funded and begun last year on the 63rd Street peninsula by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Chicago Park District included two areas of interest to the study and reconstruction of dune land habitats. Also built: a habitat for fish at the pier and other improvements such as a picnic area to the south.
The relevant dune sectors were a thicket on the east side of the peninsula--overgrown with invasives and full of garbage, and a dune on the west side that notoriously sheds sand down the underpass of Lake Shore Drive.

In the project, part of the dune was lowered near the beach to create a seasonally water-filled swale that would be planted with emergent wetland species that would gradually create a stable habitat. Its succession and success is being studied in comparison with similar configurations in the Indiana Dunes. The interior side of the dune closer to the Drive and underpass were planted with 9,000 “tillers” of marram grass last fall. This “pioneer” grass is a hardy stabilizer that spreads via huge rhizomes through the sand. 90 percent of the plantings survived, appear to be reducing sand drift, and are sheltering other plant type arrivals.
The water level rises and falls in the swale, which was planted this spring with plants from within 300 miles by the Army Corps. At some point cottonwood seedlings will have to be thinned out—natural controls have disappeared. Invasive species will be pruned. Changing water levels and disturbance will also be watched.

A next stage will include introduction of switch grass, a succession plant with good anti-erosion qualities that will replace marram grass, which dies or thins out of its own success as the sand stops blowing. Switch grass is found also in the Dunes (and is widespread throughout the States and holds potential as a bio-fuel).
In the east thicket, cottonwoods are being taken out and replaced with dune-specific grasses and wildflowers, most of which are thriving.

Considerable worry was expressed about protecting the new plantings during, for example, the 4th of July fireworks off 59th/63rd where large crowds are expected. There will be 6 ft chain-link fencing (some noted that access could be gained into the east thicket via a concrete wall.) Additional security will be provided. JPAC also had suggested more signage. Also re the fireworks: access via 67th St. and Jeffery will be closed. Parking will not be allowed at 63rd beach. Shuttle buses will be provided.

In other nature area news, Fran Vandervoort reported a June 9 planning walk-through hosted by the park district on Wooded Island. Phased and staged removal of invasives has been done by Aramark, Care of Trees, and volunteers. Shrubs were planted. She commended the ecology and bird viewing opportunities in both Wooded Island and Washington Park.

Park and Program. Park Supervisor William Tillis said he expects 100 kids for football and cheerleading. Day camp expects over 200. Jackson Park has one of the more active and sought out programs. Ken Chaney performed jazz to increasing audiences at the seniors’ exercise program. The jazz will resume in the fall.

Moved by Esther Schechter and seconded by Dwight Powell to skip the July meeting. Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary

Jackson Park Advisory Council Meeting Minutes May 10, 2010

Ross Petersen opened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. The agenda was accepted; the May minutes were accepted as presented.

Zhanna Yermakov, Chicago Park District Department of Natural Resources, distributed and discussed the Wooded Island Habitat Restoration Plan for 2009-10 and announced a planning walk-through on the Island June 9, noon-2 p.m., meeting on the Darrow Bridge. Restoration work and plantings are staggered by section over several years. The first go around of the Island, including the most intensive work, is drawing to a close this year. There is still reworking to do near Osaka garden (in fall 2010) and various small areas. 31 species are on the planting list, intended to promote diversity and a three-dimensional habitat consisting of ground, mid and canopy layers. Healthy forests and savannas have many plants at the ground level tapering to a small number of canopy trees; it’s been found to be better for birds and other animals if the ground shrubs are in clusters. In addition, growth is planned to be heavier around the perimeter of the Island, more sparse in the center.

The best way of growing shrubs for planting, Ms. Yermakov said, is in what’s called “grow bags,” which have peat and keep most of the roots with the plant. Also, the best size for planting trees is 1½ to 2½ inches in diameter. Aside from the Wooded Island replanting, 22 trees from Possibility Place are being planted north of the Wooded Island north bridge, thanks to Exelon Corp. Mr. Petersen said there should be an examination of the shore plantings to see what may be needed there.

Security issues and need for patrol were discussed, including between Cornell Drive and the west lagoon—work orders have been submitted for overgrowth reduction and opening—and on the Island and Osaka Garden at night. 3rd District Chicago Police distributed material and announcements of seminars and a Resource Fair.

Keronn Walker from B.I.G. Baseball Academy returned with concepts for baseball field renovation, discussed April 19 with Chicago Park District staff. Ages served are expected to be 6-16. A proposal will be prepared. Suggested by members was to start incrementally with what is cost beneficial, shown by experience to be needed as the field comes into use, and least involves invasive accessories needing care and security. Coordination with all users of the field and adjacent sports fields was also stressed. (Parks staff says it has to be a shared facility.) Consensus was favorable to such a program and improvement pending the proposal.

Parking lots- Petersen said he has discussed with parks staff the need for logs or other barriers at one lot to keep cars from parking on grass to avoid the meters.

Akari Rokumoto, who works for the Osaka City Chicago Office, reviewed a highly successful Osaka Garden cleanup and shore protection April 17 project done by volunteers and contractors under the Park District and the Friends of the Japanese Garden Chicago Foundation. Volunteers included members of the University of Chicago football team. Ms. Akari and the council agreed that security is a top priority—the Garden is not sustainable without it. One idea is gates at the two Island bridges that would be locked nightly after police patrol.

Park Supervisor William Tillis reported that spring and summer programs are off to a good start. Under motion by Petersen and second by Esther Schechter, the council approved setting aside $1,000 in the event financial aid is determined by the park supervisor to be needed by families for child participation in the summer program. This will be administered by Treasurer Dwight Powell. The senior’s fitness classes are growing, aided by performance on 2nd Mondays at 1 p.m. by Ken Chaney Experience jazz ensemble. A Resource Career Fair for youth and above, including ex offenders was announced for May 22, field house.

Fran Vandervoort circulated her letter of resignation as vice president and nature committee co-chair, effective July 11.

The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting June 14, 7:30 pm at the fieldhouse.

Respectfully submitted,
Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. Adjustments were made to the agenda. 63rd beach site steward’s Paul Grabowski’s presentation on the 63rd St. natural area reconstruction and update from the Friends of Osaka Garden will be rescheduled. The minutes of the March meeting were accepted.

Nature Committee. Ross Petersen reported that a large contingent of volunteers, including from University of Chicago who worked on cleanup of Osaka Garden and placement of protective rocks on its shoreline. A group under prospective Bob-o-link Meadow site steward Sam Betcher stayed until 5 p.m. As an expansion of our volunteer effort, work will regularly be done in the Meadow on the regular 2nd and 4th Saturday workdays from 1-5 p.m. Contact for details Mr. Betcher at snipp13@hotmail.com or Ross Petersen at 773 486-0505. JPAC expressed its appreciation of groups and volunteers from the University of Chicago, who were also scheduled for service days in Jackson Park April 17 and 22 (actual Earth Day).

Petersen reported that two trees were removed and one damage in Music Court parking lot islands during placement by the contractor of parking meter devices. This was reported. Petersen noted that no direct communication or discussion was held with JPAC on charged parking placement of machines in the lots throughout the park, such consultation and consideration being essential on major changes in the park.

Members stated regret and concern over the parking policy including park effects by drivers avoiding meters, but no action was voted. Rosalind Moore of Ald. Hairston’s office encouraged all to attend a public hearing on the matter with Park District representatives on April 15, 6:30 at Montgomery Place, 5550 S. South Shore Drive. She cited lack of consultation and public hearings on changing plans. She said that none of the money goes to particular parks.

Petersen reported his concern about continuation of Wooded Island Working Group, an entity separate from JPAC, that vets plans and templates for natural area habitat reconstruction and maintenance, set up in response to concerns about plans a couple years ago. While walkthroughs of the Island are welcome as needed, Petersen said, JPAC is the recognized agency for review, and also the needs that led to formation of an ongoing WIWG have passed. Petersen said he informed the Park District of his intent to withdraw and now moved that JPAC ask dissolution WIWG and that JPAC halt participation in favor of Park District discussion of Wooded Island plans at regular JPAC meetings, commencing May 10, and at open walkthroughs scheduled on an as needed basis. Seconded by Kevin Quinn. Passed 8-0 with one abstention.

A new set of trees is expected north of the Wooded Island north bridge. Schedule will be sought on the MSI west lot project

Financial. Treasurer Dwight Powell reported on balance and dues and contributions. Noted was a generous gift from Elston ACE Hardware. Moved by Petersen, seconded by Esther Schechter to appropriate a not-to-exceed $300 for rental and $150 for honorarium for the April 17 science lecture organized by JPAC, with the understanding that co-sponsors will reimburse part of the cost to JPAC.

Park and Program. William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, said track and field is getting into full gear. The fieldhouse easily fills its programs without scholarships, but now has to reach out to youth away from the immediate neighborhood to the west to do so, cost and the economy being cited. Go Girls Go led by Selma Sims is very popular and provides much needed mentoring and recreation specifically for girls.

Plans for a new playground southeast of the 63rd Pavilion were discussed by Rosalind Moore of Ald. Hairston’s office. She regretted any oversight and scheduling problems in consulting with JPAC. Plan approved by consensus.

New Business. Baseball program. Keronn Walker and Mr. Christianson of B.I.G. Baseball Academy described hopes and concepts for expanding their program into Jackson Park via improvements to the field near the tennis court, including scoreboard, artificial turf in the infield, dugouts, and bleachers. Cautions were expressed about permanent standing structures and any interference with existing activities or teams. Information was generously shared. They will return after discussions with the Park District and with more detailed plans, possibly in May.

Rebecca Graff said the extensive material from her previous archeological survey in parts of the park is being analyzed. She noted that any digging projects in parks requires archeological mitigation via Illinois State Museum.

Since the meeting…and announcements

A walkthrough of Wooded Island is scheduled to consider prospective planting and more. June 9, Wednesday 12-2 Darrow Bridge. Interested parties are welcome.

Volunteer workdays May 8, 22 10-1 pm (may continue to 5 p.m. in Bob-o-link)- Darrow Bridge. Information Ross Petersen 773 486-0505.

Join the birders on Wooded Island- led by Doug Anderson or another experienced. Saturdays 8 a.m. from Darrow Bridge so of MSI.

A nice crowd heard Dr. Greg Mueller explain the role of mushrooms and underground micorhyzal networks to a good crowd on Saturday afternoon April 17. JPAC's thanks to Dr. Mueller, Hyde Park Historical Society, UC Civic Knowledge, volunteers, attendees, and U of C Multicultural Center (which provided the venue).

Fran Vandervoort convened the meeting. A quorum was not present, precluding elections. Agenda and minutes of the December meeting were received. Treasurer Dwight Powell reported on the fund balance and that annual dues and gifts were received (thanks to all). Major expenditures have been $2,400 to Care of Trees and $200 to Friends of the Parks, our fiscal agent.

Fran Vandervoort said there will be three volunteer workdays in April- the 10th, 17th (also Earth Day), and 24th, meeting at the Darrow Bridge at 10 am. They are normally 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Call Ross at 773 486-0505.

Bird walks are resuming informally on Saturdays, but Doug Anderson is unable to lead them due to health issues.

Care of Trees has carried out its contracted cutting and removal work in Wooded Island (to which JPAC contributed) and the Park District expects to do more work this spring including fill-in plantings for a strong ecosystem.

Members were encouraged to attend the March 27 care of parks conference at South Shore Cultural Center, 9:30-12. Requested was RSVP to 312 742-4762 or 312 857-2757 x 17, including for exemption from the parking fee.

Members were also encouraged to invite their friends to a special lecture April 17 that JPAC and others have arranged by Greg Mueller, University of Chicago on what grows underfoot and why it matters to parks and people- see at top.

We are waiting to see what plantings survived the winter on the 63rd Street beach dune restoration area. More planting is expected, with a workday, this spring. Vandervoort said we are waiting to hear what steps will be taken to protect the new area from crowds, such as at July 3 fireworks, and how the wetland swale will work.

Bill Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, reported that a new state of the art “kid safe” playground will be installed this spring southeast of 63rd St. Bathing Pavilion. It will have a nautical theme. Vandervoort said JPAC needs to see the plans and have a copy. Track and field, the most popular park program, serving 100 or more kids, starts. It is free. Day camp sign up lags, but an increased number of partial scholarships will be available (and promoted in the schools) thanks to the Parkways Foundation. Mr. Tillis said he is confident that no child need be turned away for lack of funds.

Eastern Star organization is funding an Easter Egg Hunt for camp kids and families in the park. JPAC is grateful.

Parking meters are installed in most parts of the park. Members expressed concern and JPAC will seek updates.

All are encouraged to view the spectacular murals/mosaics installed in Lake Shore Drive underpasses at 57th.

JPAC will ask about status of the Museum of Science and Industry plans for remake of its west parking lot and drainage configuration and Park District plans for subsequent upgrades to walks.

Dates coming up: March 13 annual Darrow convening and symposium, March 27 conference (see above), workdays, April 17 lecture (see above), Friends of the Parks Ball April 9 at South Shore Cultural Center. [Friends Of Osaka Garden since announced a workday Saturday April 17 at 10 am to include lagoon-edge protective stones installation.]

The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting April 12, 7:30, 6401 S. Stony Island.

Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:30 pm; a quorum was present.
The November minutes were accepted.

President’s report: Ross Petersen noted the JPAC letter published December 2 in the Hyde Park Herald. The letter acknowledged Care of Tree’s gift of work to be done on Wooded Island (to which JPAC also contributed) and described the project in more detail. The letter also asked that those who wish to help low income families attend kids and youth programs in parks contribute to the Parkways Foundation’s Kids Camp fund.

President and Treasurer: Petersen described a note of appreciation from Park Supervisor Bill Tillis for JPAC’s purchase of turkeys for Thanksgiving time distribution to families of park kids and noting there are no further needs of help from the Council for programs at this time. It was reported that there has been some fall off in registration for youth park programs, to which a modest increase in fees possibly contributed. The Park District budget has been approved, including an agreement with unions that forestalls additional staff layoff for the present. Jackson Park has suffered staff attrition.

Treasurer Dwight Powell noted Friends of the Park’s gracious letter acknowledging JPAC’s gift to them.

The Secretary and Treasurer were asked to expedite a letter to members soliciting an annual financial contribution to the work of JPAC.

Jill Heise, Friends of the Parks Community Parks coordinator, spoke and asked and answered questions. She thanked those who returned questionnaires on FOTP services and resources for councils. In response, a half-day conference is being planned with the Park District for March 27 at South Shore Cultural Center for councils on fundraising and grants, navigating CPD, council best practices, and working with your elected officials.

February 17 FOTP will hold its next council leadership networking convocation.

February 4 is FOTP’s annual awards luncheon and meeting. The council asked that despite our tardiness FOTP take our nomination of Care of Trees and Washington Park Conservancy leader Madiem Kawa. Friends can be reached at 312 527-2757 or http://www.fotp.org.

Heise invited JPAC to send representatives to a first meeting in January by an initiative on tree need identification, planting, upkeep, and replacement, from the Mayor’s Office, CPD, and FOTP (lead Mary Eileen Sullivan). Gary Ossewaarde and Fran Vandervoort volunteered. Petersen said we need clear and sufficient contractor follow up performance guarantees for all contractors to make sure newly planted trees survive. Also, stress should be on having a variety of native, wildlife-friendly and hardy trees. JPAC has worked on lists of preferred species.

Heise participated in general discussion of kids and adult program sufficiency, quality, participation recruitment and pricing in Jackson and in the other parks, and the fieldhouse being empty in the morning. Suggested were focusing on determining whether and ensuring that kids programs really nurture, on creating outside partnerships to make sure the ensemble is one of enrichment, and maybe finding partnerships or other ways to return the training internship programs for high school-aged. FOTP has programs for vetting or addressing these and such other issues of neighborhood parks as playground safety and upkeep. (Noted: the printed and online quarterly program schedules only list programs given by park district staff—councils and neighbors should ask park staff if there are other programs!) JPAC and Friends of the Parks will explore new environmental programming on Wooded Island.

General problems: it’s often hard to reach personnel-- the right, park-knowledgeable person, with authority, whether downtown, in the regions, or in the trades and to get work orders done. Members brought up some ongoing, issues, unaddressed despite work orders, some posing safety hazards. Also discussed: Ongoing crime and people living in the park--difficulty getting authorities and agencies to respond, also off-road bmx bike riders putting up “tracks” when the grass is wet, tearing up the latter.

Spring lecture program planning is being led by Fran Vandervoort. The council voted unanimously to not meet in January and February and so to hold elections in March. With no other business, the meeting was adjourned.

June 8, 2009 JPAC meeting
Ross Petersen called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m.. A quorum was not present. No problem was found with the May minutes.

Some native plants have been put in Wooded Island. The amount expended was $10, as plants ordered did not materialize from the grower. Successful workdays were held on the Island, including an extra one with University of Chicago students. Noted was that neither the Park District nor its contractors have sufficient staff to keep up with growth in the natural areas and that problems with lagoon water level controls kills shore-emergent plants. There are no longer environmental internships or youth crews for the park. So increased volunteers for the workdays are essential.
Preparation work started on a new beachland feature and natural area at 63rd Street; plans have been shared with the council. Hope was expressed that once done it will be maintained.

Concern was expressed about reduced beach hours and lifeguard protection. Hours were about 8:30 am-8 pm but are now 11 am to 6 pm. A fast method to predict need for a swim ban is in use, but frequency of traditional testing has been cut back.

Lack of security resulting in undesired behaviors were reported for Wooded Island, the 63rd Cornell lot, and Darrow Bridge areas of the park. The bridge has been damaged by fires repeatedly set under the bridge.

Members were disappointed that park district presence above the supervisor level at our meetings has all but disappeared and the frequency of park walk-throughs with council members is reduced. The council has made many accommodations to new Park District procedures, it was noted, but seems not to get the attention needed for this historic park in a time of severe cutbacks.

Good articles appeared in the Tribune and Hyde Park Herald reporting on the Frederick Douglass memorial marker dedication. The marker is on the path south of the bowling green, just west of the bike path that parallels Lake Shore Drive on the west side of the drive. There is parking off Lake Shore Drive at 58th Street or the Museum east lot.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Next meeting Monday, July 13. 7:30 p.m., field house.
Respectfully submitted, Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

Volunteer Workdays. 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Work with the Park District to clear non-native invasives and otherwise maintain a healthy, wildlife-friendly habitat and oak savannah in Wooded Island and Bob-o-link Meadow. Meet at Darrow Bridge south of the Museum at 10 a.m. Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505.
Bird walks continue on Wooded Island Saturdays at 8 a.m. Meet at Darrow Bridge south of the Museum. 773 403-7058.

Lawn Bowling and Croquet at the Bowling Green. Lawn bowling days are Tuesdays at 7, Saturdays and Sundays 1-3. Please wear flat shoes. All else provided. Tom Michael, 708 366-8228. For croquet club, call Tom O’Laughlin at 773 631-1422.

May 15 noon, under a weeping sky but with great anticipation about 50 participants and guests gathered to dedicate a marker and pay homage to Frederick Douglass (1818-1895), the country of Haiti and Haitians in Chicago, and Chicago's African-American heritage. These had converged at World's Columbian Exposition of 1893. Frederick Douglass, noted escaped slave, abolitionist and African-American leader, author, editor, suffragist, social reformer and statesman came to Chicago during planning and construction of the Fair and in particular the Haitian Pavilion southeast of the present bowling green (by Lake Shore Drive and the 59th Marina) and spoke at the dedication of the pavilion on Haitian Independence Day January 2, 1893- the first national building completed on the grounds. From the opening of the Fair on May 15, 1893 through its duration he served as Haitian minster to the Fair and talked with the many visitors of all backgrounds at the pavilion and also around Chicago. He helped African Americans feel a part of the city and Fair.

Four years ago, Barry Rapoport, then a teacher at South Shore high school's School of Leadership, learned from Christopher Reed's All the World Is Here: Black Presence at the White City of Douglass' role at the Fair and developed a project in which students would mark the outline of the Haiti pavilion and explain its significance to visitors. From this came the proposal for a permanent marker, ultimately a granite boulder with an embedded brass plaque. Barry tirelessly worked to raise funds, working with the advisory council, Alderman Hairston's (5th) office, The Park District, Parkways foundation and many others to raise the funds and ensure everything was right. The marker was prepared by Gast Monuments Inc. Rapoport and JPAC express their thanks to the many donors and volunteers.

The program, emceed by Rapoport, featured the JROTC Honor Guard of the School of Leadership/South Shore Campus; Father Carl Markelz, Principal, Mt. Carmel High School; Jean Martin for the Haitian, Caribbean communities; Jackson Park Supervisor William Tillis; Ald. Leslie Hairston (5th); Dr. Christopher R. Reed, Prof. Emer. of History, Roosevelt University; Frances S. Vandervoort, Vice President, Jackson Park Advisory Council; Monica Vela, M.D., Univ. of Chicago Medical Center Assoc. V.P. for Diversity, and violinist John Tredon (who played Haiti's National Anthem and Handel's Hallelujah Chorus, a favorite of Douglass, a violinist). Hairston read an inspiring Resolution passed by City Council April 22, dedicating May 15, the day the Fair opened, as Frederick Douglass Day. We learned much about Douglass, Chicago and history from all the speakers. Despite the pouring rain, Ald. Hairston with panache unveiled the monument. You can visit it along the bike path on the west side of Lake Shore Drive. The plaque reads:

In absence of a quorum before very late, President Petersen and members discussed ways to reach out, grow council activities and collaborations, and grow participation. The conversation is on the agenda for upcoming meetings. We also discussed final preparations for the May 15 marker dedication and the resolution introduced by Alderman Hairston and passed by City Council April 22 honoring May 15 as Frederick Douglass Day. Barry was given a round of applause. Noted also were recent successful volunteer workdays and a children’s program in the park.

Upon the appearance of a quorum, the April minutes were approved, funds for approved plants for the natural areas (assuming available) were approved. The meeting was adjourned, next set for June 8.

Volunteer workdays every 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10 am-1 pm. Meet at Darrow Bridge 10 am. Ross Petersen, 773 486-0505. Next May 30, June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25, Aug. 8 and 22, Sep. 12 and 26, into/thru Nov.

Bird walks continue in Jackson Park Wed. 7 am, Sat. 8 am. Meet at Darrow Bridge.

Minutes of the March meeting were approved with correction that the referenced Wooded Island plantings were done the previous autumn.
Nature Committee. Petersen reported a great workday April 11 with 22 volunteers. Improved announcement signage is in process. (Fran Vandervoort and Madiem Kawa offered to create a brochure describing and promoting workdays for the natural areas.) Fran announced an April 25 lecture by Chicago region naturalist and author Joel Greenberg, at the Hyde Park Historical Society. Rosalind Moore of the 5th Ward Office showed a packet from the Corps of Engineers on a proposed shoreline dune restoration and natural area project for near the 63rd Street Beach. Concepts may be examined at the next meeting. Petersen described experience with aggressive and off-leash dogs on Wooded Island and concern that there may be insufficient policing.

Arnold Randall, Chicago 2016 Neighborhood Legacies director. Arnold gave an overview of current Olympic plans and timelines. The park will host field hockey across from Hyde Park Academy. There at present are the NFL funded running track and a ball field, between about 61st and 63rd and between Stony Island and Cornell Dr. Olympics would host two artificial-surface playing fields with stands. One of the fields may remain as a permanent legacy should the neighborhood prefer, and the track fields would be restored as neighbors wish. The historic comfort station between the proposed hockey fields would be fixed up and restored. Work would begin at the end of 2014 and include extensive testing. Streets and arterials including Stony, Cornell, and Lake Shore Drive would be affected only during the time of the games. The Drive may well have lane closures as athletes, staff etc. would enter the playing area from there via 63rd/Hayes Dr. Spectators will enter via Cornell Dr. Reconstruction will be completed in 2017. (Visit details, bid etc. via http://www.Chicago2016.org.)

Randall insisted all would come in by shuttle—no autos allowed, and permit parking will be used for residents in surrounding neighborhoods. At most there will be c22,000 athletes, spectators and support in the area at any one time. The traffic plan will be refined once the bid is won. Further improvements such as to transit were suggested to be responsibility possibly of the neighborhood enhancements foundation using the Olympics as a catalyst. Randall said the communities outreach committee, with 5 subcommittees, has been greatly expanded and will hold a large number of meetings including a series of c. approximately monthly meetings examining Washington Park’s future and legacies. Randall answered a great many questions and was thanked by the council, including for move of the venue to a location with reduced impact, especially on sensitive natural areas.

Park and Program, new and old business. Mr. Hammond, one of the instructors described the wide variety of sports programs this spring and coming this summer (registration in late April), able to work with small groups, have teams in playoffs, and have open gym. He reported that instructor Ken Cheney’s wife passed away. Kevin York expressed his desire to see a little league facility in the area.

Barry Rapoport said his monument group was meeting with the contractor in preparation for installation and the May 15 dedication program.
It was decided to continue to address bylaws at the May 11 meeting. This meeting was then adjourned.

VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS- Maintain a healthy habitat and oak savanna on Wooded Island: remove non-native, invasive plants and tend recent plantings. 10-1 on 2nd and 4th Saturdays through November. Meet at 10 am at the Darrow Bridge south of the Museum. Ross-773 486-0505, CPD at 312 742-4072.

BIRD WALKS. Doug Anderson is not able to lead walks at present, but they continue with experienced birders, Weds. at 7, Sats. at 8 from the Darrow Bridge.

The meeting was convened at 7:40 p.m. by Gary Ossewaarde at request of the vice president. A quorum was not present, so reports were received but no actions taken. Guests included Lorne Green, 20th Ward Office of Ald. Willie Cochran (Woodlawn and beyond).

Barry Rapoport reported that the program and announcement for the dedication of the Frederick Douglass monument were under final review by the Park District. All were urged to recruit a large attendance for this gala event May 15 south of the Bowling Green. Many gave or helped to ensure this commemoration of Douglass, the Columbian Exposition opening, and Haitian participation therein.

Ossewaarde and Frances Vandervoort reported on their meeting with Museum of Science and Industry officers about two new exhibits opening soon: Harry Potter, in a tent on the northeast lawn, and an updated and refurbished Smart Home-Green and Wired (which will include a wind turbine, more green and sustainable materials and facilities including in the garden, and a summer farmers’ market on select Fridays). No concerns were reported with these projects. Planning continues on the southwest lot reconstruction, and construction continues inside on new exhibits. Attendance and finances continue to be healthy.

The Olympic final bid was reported to be submitted since our last meeting, with a changed location for the Jackson Park soccer to the ball field and track across from Hyde Park High School rather than near the lagoons. Details and questions were discussed.

Park Volunteer Saturday Workdays are resuming, 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Phase I Wooded Island plantings are expected to start under the Park District. Many gave their input into the new planting template.

A new conservancy, Osaka Garden Foundation, is forming and has held preliminary meetings, with a broad base of experts and interested persons and organizations. Leader William Florida is invited to our meetings. For details, contact wflorid@yahoo.com.

Noted was an interesting program held at U of C by the DuSable Society, Chicago’s Haitian community, Friends of the Parks and others. This included Roosevelt University Professor Christopher Reed on little-known aspects of African-American and Haitian presence at the 1893 Columbian Exposition.

Some interesting happenings to our south were the refurbishing of South Shore Cultural Center and holding of hugely successful performances there by the Civic Orchestra and the new South Shore Opera Company of Chicago (call Gary for contacts on the latter), and also concern about plans to turn parts of Rainbow Beach/Arthur Ashe and Rosenblum parks over to CPS for schools.

William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor, reported on three successful student essay contests held at the field house in January and February. Spring programs were gearing up. These are the most successful Jackson Programs, as the kids are roaring to get outside. Increasing winter program attendance will require thought and even more work with the schools. Tillis noted that the number of teens enrolling in programs has increased enormously lately, and the teens feel comfortable at Jackson. The park has tennis programs in preparation. Private instructors teach tennis to small children in the summer. Football is free and very popular. Due to the park district budget issue, program fees will have to be raised and how everything is done reevaluated. The staff is able to handle the numbers and programs have no immediate financial assistance needs.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm. The next meeting will be on April 13, 7:30 p.m., Field House, 6401 S. Stony Island.

WE NEED YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE APRIL 13 MEETING TO CONDUCT MAJOR BUSINESS AND TO GATHER YOUR INPUT.
A VOTE ON BYLAW REVISIONS WILL BE TAKEN. ON VIEW AT THE FIELD HOUSE OR CALL GARY FOR APPT. 773 947-9541 OR garyossewaarde@yahoo.com.

VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS HAVE RESUMED 2ND, 4TH SATURDAYS, 10-1. Meet at Darrow Bridge so. Of MSI. 773 486-0505.

BIRD WALKS- CHECK WITH DOUG ANDERSON 773 493-7058. WED. 7 AM, SAT. 8. Darrow Bridge.

SAVE THE DATE – MAY 15, FRIDAY, NOON. DEDICATION OF THE FREDERICK DOUGLASS MONUMENT, with lots of activities and entertainment including from schools. Between the Bowling Green and Marina. Flyer with details in the next Newsletter.

The meeting was convened by Ross Petersen, a quorum being present.

Minutes: There being no objections, the minutes of the December minutes were approved as presented.

ACE sports training facility
Responses to council written questions submitted in December were distributed. Concerns, considerations and questions were discussed carefully and at length. Petersen introduced, Fran Vandervoort seconded a resolution, passed unanimously after discussion: JPAC would welcome the program as part of the park district’s programming facility (but not as a non CPD, free-standing structure), and asked ACE to join JPAC in seeking a new or expanded Park District field house to include the facility. Final wording was assigned to the Vice President and Secretary.

Museum of Science and Industry West Lot Renovation
Upon discussion followed by motion of Petersen second by Vandervoort, JPAC resolved its support in principal of the project, including the force-main, providing installation of the proposed pollution monitoring device(s) and assuming minimal discharge of water into Columbia Basin.

Election of Officers
The floor was opened to nominations. With only one nomination for each office, the following were elected unanimously: President: Ross Petersen, Vice President: Frances S. Vandervoort, Secretary: Gary Ossewaarde, Treasurer: Dwight E. Powell. Continuing as spokespersons: Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jones, and Louise McCurry.

Financial report- submitted by Dwight Powell and accepted. All contributors were and are thanked.

Park and Program
Park Supervisory William Tillis thanked JPAC for contribution to the Christmas party. New motion detectors are installed. The three essay contests for high school kids were confirmed for 4 pm January 15 and February 15 and 28. Judges and participants are encouraged. About 60 kids are expected, to be grouped by age. Separately, members asked inquiry into why staff seems much larger at similarly-sized Washington Park field house.

Frederick Douglass Monument
Barry Rapoport distributed the draft program for the May 15 public dedication. Members were impressed. The program will be at noon south of the Bowling Green.

Other business
Members are studying, with Friends of the Parks, CPD proposed apparent removal from the CPD Code of reference to commitment to equitable distribution of resources and facilities. CPD Board vote is scheduled for January 28.

Rosalind Moore of the 5th Ward Office urged attendance at 5th Ward Olympic Task Force update meeting, Thursday February 26, 6:30 pm at field house, 6401 S. Stony Island. Confirmation recommended- 773 324-5555.

Final draft of JPAC bylaws revisions is in progress and will be introduced at the next meeting.

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. Next meeting: March 9, 2009, 7:30 pm, field house.

Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde

Our annual meeting and election is planned for Monday, January 12, 7:30 pm, field house, 6401 S. Stony Island. Nominations are now open and can be made from the floor. At the December 8 meeting, nominated for re-election were: Officers: President, Ross Petersen. Vice President, Frances S. Vandervoort. Secretary, Gary M. Ossewaarde. Treasurer, Dwight E. Powell. At-large spokespersons: Geneva Calloway, Vernita Jones, Louise McCurry.

We will also discuss proposed revised bylaws. Copies of proposed, current JPAC and the Park District’s suggested bylaws are in the field house binder and have been distributed to persons eligible to vote January 12. Online link: http://www.hydepark.org/parks/jpac/jpacbylaws.htm. To discuss bylaws before January 12, contact the Secretary (see next). Wording ideas should be in writing. (Currently voters must be attending 4th meeting in the past 12.)

OUR 2009 FUND DRIVE IS UNDERWAY. CALL GARY, 773 947-9541, garyossewaarde@yahoo.com TO PARTICIPATE.

News: The Olympic hockey venue is now moved from north of Hayes Dr. near lagoons to the Hyde Park High area.

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:35 pm, a quorum being present. There being no objection, the agenda was adjusted for presentations, and the November minutes were approved as presented.

Our new account being active, upon motion from Petersen and second from Esther Schechter, the council approved reimbursement of Frances Vandervoort for our $100 annual membership with our fiscal agent, Friends of the Parks.

Presentation by Museum of Science and Industry: the southwest quadrant reconfiguration. Presenters included Mary Krinock, A. Elizabeth Miller and Jennifer Christakes of MSI; Bernard Jacobs, chief designer, Jacobs and Ryan; Dan Rest of Lible Engineering; and Ellen Sargent , CPD project manager with Natural Resources.

The project involves a complete redesign of the area southwest of the museum to address—in a pioneering green, sustainable and attractive way—problems with drainage, the group entrance, bus staging (drop off and pick up), lot, deliveries and trash pickup. The site would also become a teaching venue. Devices to handle excessive rains and snow from that sector and also from the north side parking garage would include new piping, porous pavement, bio swales and rain gardens, gravel beds, separators, and cisterns. We were assured that great engineering care is taken, in consultation with the Park District, that last-resort discharge into the Columbia Basin will be clean and not enough to disturb shore plantings. The team was urged to do its best to eliminate past problems with trash handling and facilities. Project funding includes federal SAFETEA transportation grants and is slated to start in 2010. The team will return regularly with updates, and the council agreed to render its position on the project as soon as practicable.

ACE sports teaching facility, proposed for the tennis court area southeast of Hayes and Cornell Drives. Council members presented and discussed prepared questions with the program’s leader Tyrone Mason. Discussion centered on ensuring breadth and demand for the program, strong and sustainable financial setup, and use of the park. Mason will return with detailed answers in January, and JPAC will take its position then or as soon thereafter as possible.

Park and Program. William Tillis, Jackson Park Supervisor. Tillis announced a six million parks repair program. Submitted for Jackson Park include the Darrow Bridge deck and fence and several walks and lots in poor condition. Tillis announced Junior Bears team took second in city championships. 75 turkeys were given for Thanksgiving. JPAC approved $200 for kids’ Christmas gifts (motion-Petersen, 2nd Vandervoort) and ~$350 set aside for the high school essay contests Jan. 15, Feb. 15, Feb. 28 (motion-Petersen, 2nd Zelia Stevens); members will help judge the latter.

Jackson Park Advisory Council minutes November 10, 2008

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at 7:35 pm, a quorum being present, including the President Ross Petersen, Vice President Fran Vandervoort, Secretary Gary Ossewaarde, and Treasurer Dwight Powell.

The October minutes were approved with correction that the number of plants to go into the natural area is “a substantial number, over the next few seasons”.

Resolutions and Business. Three sets of proposed resolutions were distributed and explained by Roger Huff, Attorney. The resolutions (1) authorized and instructed the Treasurer to close the JPAC account at Palos Bank, (2) authorized Friends of the Parks to serve as JPAC’s fiscal agent (fee/ membership $100 per year), and (3) authorized the officers to open a new account at Hyde Park Bank. After discussion, each resolution was approved unanimously. Copies of the formal resolutions are on file in the JPAC binder.

Mr. Huff recommended review of the JPAC by-laws for conformity to current Park District guidelines for Park Advisory Councils. JPAC agreed and a committee for such will be appointed aiming toward coordination with the next election of officers. Nominations will open at the December meeting and elections will be duly announced, to be held the next meeting after. Also, the council will give the park supervisor a schedule of JPAC’S 2009 meetings to post in a secure bulletin board and supply a binder of appropriate JPAC records which will be available for public review at the field house.

Nature Committee. Friends of the Parks volunteer recognition ceremony: November 16 at Forest Preserves hq.

Natural Resources Manager Zhanna Yermakov communicated there may be controlled burns this fall in Bob-o-link Meadow. Shrubs, saplings and other plantings have started going in, to be continued over the next four seasons. JPAC expressed its thanks and appreciation.

Inquiry and concerns have been voiced about handling of hazardous waste at the Museum of Science and Industry’s west lot. Also, the Museum may come to a future meeting about plans for the south side of the Museum.

Beavers have grown in numbers and are causing some damage in the park.

The last Volunteer workday this year will be on November 22.

Flooding was reported at Richards Drive near the inner harbor. This will be referred to authorities to determine what agency(s) is responsible for investigation and remedy.

Gary Ossewaarde reported that request was sent to the Olympic Bid Committee, cc to Ald. Hairston, asking that the proposed Olympic venue be moved sufficiently away from the natural areas and that no enlarged roads be installed.

Petersen reported continued concerns over contaminants in some kinds of artificial turf. Two artificial turf soccer fields had been proposed as Olympic legacies.

Park and field house. Cordell Hopkins has assumed area manager responsibility for Jackson Park.
Jackson Park has championship teams—football city wide; track came in second last spring.
Tillis confirmed that coach/instructor positions have been eliminated or reduced to part-time hourly and significant budget cuts made, but staff works hard to keep programs from suffering. They are still able to have the Turkey Trot and the Thanksgiving games and meals this year.

Old business. Concerns were discussed about the proposed ACE youth sports facility: lack of details about business plan and budget, use and financial sustainability, at least one similar program within three miles, and status re park district control.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm. Next meeting Monday, December 8, with nomination of officers.

Respectfully submitted, Gary M. Ossewaarde, Secretary

Jackson Park Advisory Council October 14 2009 council meeting minutes

Ross Petersen called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. As the meeting was short of a quorum, no actions were taken but information and discussion were shared.

Review of September 8 special community meeting on proposed ACE domed sports facility.
Members said they were disappointed that placement was limited to one place, and in this historic public park, and that the meeting seemed controlled. Members were concerned about financial sustainability and perpetuity, that demographics to support it may be overestimated, that the project may be underwritten by unspecified bonds, and that too little is known about the size and structure of the board and underwriters. Members were pleased about free-use opportunities but wondered if the facility is sufficiently distinctive and more accommodating to the general public than existing South Side facilities including Bally’s XS Tennis and Golf and the Y’s. Unknown: the state of negotiations between ACE and CPD or CPD’s position. Further discussion was tabled pending more information.

Park and Field house. William Tillis, Park Supervisor, described fall programs, including football with upwards of 100 participants, cheerleading with 30. Jackson fields teams in competition. Haunted House occurs late October at the field house, although now with charges, and there will be Halloween and Thanksgiving programs, including a Turkey Trot and scrimmage games. It has not been necessary to turn anyone away for lack of means. In coming years programs may be curtailed (for example no football uniforms this year), and it is increasingly difficult to staff even after school programs due to severe budget shortfalls and merging of regions. Well-qualified volunteers have helped staff programs this year.
Separately, report received from Barry Rapoport : Douglass Memorial should be installed later this year.

Nature Areas. Ross Petersen reported that a planners and stakeholders walk-through was held and a specific list of plantings and work approved. 20,000 shrubs will be going in; a nice burr oak has been installed at Osaka Garden. Signage has been installed in the areas. Some persons violating dog restrictions have been ticketed. JPAC members will attend a Chicago Wilderness Conference November 13 at UIC. Petersen noted toxic concerns and law suits over certain kinds of artificial playing surfaces. Also, there is periodic investigation of lagoon contamination. Also Nike site. Fran Vandervoort reported that Doug Anderson has been ill and unable to conduct tours. JPAC wished him speedy recovery.

Park District Budget. Public release date: October 17; it can be accessed online at http://www. chicagoparkdistirct.com or viewed at select park field houses. Final hearing is November 5, 4 pm, 541 N. Fairbanks. Friends of the Parks generally has a review discussion [November 10, 17 N. State #1450, call John Paul Jones to reserve and for time- 773 857-2757.]

Olympics. Petersen reported that the 2016 Committee is informed of JPAC concerns about the field hockey venue being located near the lagoons and adjacent spoil deposits and Nike base, even if nothing is put underground. 2016 has not apparently yet made decision nor given response. Members were concerned that transportation and other impacts, needs or opportunities may not yet be well thought out, with the “bid book” due out by February. Members were urged to attend Alderman Hairston’s 4th Thursdays Olympic Task Force meetings, 6:30 pm at the field house. [Confirm mtgs. at 773 324-5555.]

The meeting was adjourned. The Next JPAC meeting: Monday, November 10, 7:30 pm at the field house.

Respectfully submitted,

Gary Ossewaarde, Secretary

The regular September 8 council meeting was suspended in favor of a community meeting on the proposed year round sports education and training structure for tennis courts near Hayes and Cornell Drives. Here is a provisional report on that meeting.

Community Meeting in lieu of JPAC meeting, September 8, 2008

Ald. Leslie Hairston (5th) with JPAC convened a well-attended meeting at South Shore Cultural Center. An extended presentation was followed by ample audience questions and comments. The proposal is sponsored by Athletes Committed to Education, backed by financing firms, and endorsed by many officials and stakeholders. Contact: ACE at 7527 S. Dobson 60619, 312 671-4172.

The presentation included objectives, overview, design, and programs. The air-supported, transparent dome would sit 50 foot high on a platform and at 57,000 sq. ft. not exceed the footprint of the present nine tennis courts (shown to be in very bad shape). The facility will include a more traditional wing for education and support. Included are many facilities for batting or simulating tennis, golf, and baseball year round, plus three good tennis courts. Four mature trees would be removed and soft landscaping substituted. The complex will seek “silver LEEDS” certification with many innovative green features. Construction cost: c. $3 million with a yearly budget of c. a million.

The facility would be free for kids after school for the hours 4-6 pm. Youth under 18 would pay the cost of a card. Those over 18 would pay up to $300 a year on a sliding scale. However, during the summer adults could play tennis for free.

Strong support was expressed for a program that could provide a safe haven for kids and possibly turn lives around, including through learning for living programs as well as sports, while providing a place for youth and others to train for competitive or career sports in a facility now lacking on the South Side.

Main concerns were about giving to a private program and facility, land in a public park, or the need to first complete terms negotiations with and get approval of the park district. Alderman Hairston said the project and discussion is only for this site and park, no other, but agreed that terms must leave the District in ownership and control. ACE said the proposal is that its own staff conduct the program.

Other expressed concerns were about not over-using that section of the park or hurting open vistas or general-public use, and for preserving historic character and template. There was general agreement there should be more community usage of this park, and several testified as to the need for the facility. It was expected there will be another meeting, assuming ACE and the Park District complete negotiations and submit a recommended proposal.

Prepared by Gary Ossewaarde, JPAC Secretary

The October meeting will be on Tuesday, October 14 rather than Monday, due to Columbus holiday. There is important business and planning to conduct. 7:30 pm at the field house, 6401 S. Stony Island.

4th Thursdays 5th Ward Olympic planning and benefits mtgs. 6:30 pm, Jackson Park field house.

Volunteer Workdays in the Natural Areas continue 9/27, 10/11 and 25, and into November. 10 am-1 pm, meet at Darrow Bridge south of MSI basin. Contact Ross Petersen at 773 486-0505.

Wooded Island Bird Walks with Doug Anderson Weds. 7 am, Sats. 8 am. Darrow Bridge 773 493-7058.

December 7 Explore the White City Simulation Tour returns with a new section celebrating Osaka Garden and the Chicago-Osaka Sister City connection, with program participation by JPAC/park-connected experts. Visit for tickets Museum of Science and Industry website, www.msichicago.org, or Hyde Park Historical Society website, www.hydeparkhistory.org well before November. Space from either is limited. There is a charge.

Ross Petersen called the August meeting to order at 7:35 pm.
No business was conducted or minutes kept July 14. New attendees included Madiem Kawa, steward at Washington Park, and Joe Kelly.

President’s remarks. Ross Petersen said Area Manager A.J. Jackson is our liaison and hoped Jackson can regularly attend our meetings as consultation, continuity, and commitment are needed for upkeep and program in the park. Terry Jones, a key instructor is leaving and Andrea Frink has had her hours cut: Programs including summer camp appear short on staff and organization this summer, with few(er?) volunteers.

Nature Committee. Petersen said unhistorical plantings were done at Osaka Garden. Trees lost to storms or otherwise have yet to be replaced, including a 400+ year-old oak on Wooded Island.
Ability to have training in application of an appropriate herbicide has been enabled by a streamlining of categories facilitated by State Representative Barbara Flynn Currie (25th).

Petersen said the natural areas stewards city wide have been meeting with each other and the park district on natural areas issues including coordination with natural areas contractor, Aramark. He noted that invasive ground plants and lagoon milfoil have been gaining. A walk-through with park district leadership was under discussion.

Petersen reported that the Army Corps has again carried out investigations at the former Nike missile site, including of aromatic hydrocarbon-type seepage. JPAC has no new information.

Petersen reported that City Council held a hearing on artificial turf playing fields in parks. Comments there were reportedly mixed. The issue was referred to an intergovernmental task force.

Financial. Vice President Fran Vandervoort and Treasurer Dwight Powell reported on plans to move our account. Having a fiscal agent or status was discussed. Our next needed expenditure will be for the fall Turkey Trot race.

Projects. Barry Rapoport reported that all the non Park District funding required for the Frederick Douglass Monument has been secured, and the Park District will, upon requisite board and or other action, commission and install the boulder with plaque near the 59th Harbor, at the site of the first address of the 1893 exposition, by Douglass at the Haitian pavilion, the first completed for the fair. Rapoport and JPAC expressed their appreciation to the Parkways Foundation, Polk Bros. Foundation, members of JPAC, and many others who gave to realize this important historical and social recognition, and to Park District project manager Adrian Guerrero.

Discussion was held on the proposed domed sports facility, which will be the subject of a community meeting at South Shore Cultural Center, replacing the regular JPAC meeting September 8. Members made clear that having this broader special meeting has council approval, but not at present the evolving project.

The next meeting - a special community meeting Sept. 8, 70 pm [changed]. South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 So Sh. Dr. All are encouraged to attend. Due to holiday, the next regular meeting is Tuesday, October 14, 7:30 pm, field house.

July 14 2008

JPAC assembled July 14, but took no actions due to lack of quorum. We have important business to conduct. Since the September meeting will be devoted a general community discussion of one item, it is important that we have a good turnout of members and friends August 11. Matters include:
• Scholarships and assistance for park programs and other matters of council finance
• Preparation for park budget hearings
• Progress on stewardship and improvement in the natural areas
• Update on the community garden and the Douglass monument
• Exciting mix of park programs
• Developments, planning, use changes that might impact the park
• Possible new council initiatives
• Application of new council guidelines

Advanced notice: On September 8, Monday, in place of the regular council meeting there will be a community public meeting convened by Alderman Leslie A. Hairston (5th) and JPAC at SOUTH SHORE CULTURAL CENTER, 7059 South Shore Drive, at 7:30 pm. Free parking is available at the Center, which is also served by Metra Electric and buses 6, 26 (southbound early) and 71.
The topic of this meeting is public consideration of a proposed sports activity and teaching facility to be built and run by Athletes for Excellence in a structure at and over the tennis courts southeast of the intersection of Cornell and Hayes (63rd) Drives.

News: A new predictive-modeling approach to swim bans is in testing at 63rd St. beach.

Natural Areas Workdays, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10 am-1 pm. Meet at Darrow bridge so. of MSI. Call Ross Petersen at 773 486-0505. August 9, 23, Sept. 13, 27, Oct. 11, 25, Nov. ?

Bird Walks with Doug Anderson in Jackson Park Wooded Island. Weds. 7 am, Sats. 8 am. Meet at Darrow bridge south of MSI. 773 493-7058.

Autumn program registration in progress- visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com, 773 256-0903.

August 28. Thursday 5th Ward monthly Olympic Task Force meeting- 6:30 pm. Will include a full discussion, including on successful minority and community participation, park and community benefits or negative impacts to be avoided, transportation, parking, ways to promote history and amenities.

September 6, Saturday, 10 am. The Chicago Park District holds its annual council and volunteers recognition day at Northerly Island Charter One Pavilion. Regulars should let us know if they will attend so we can give an estimate to the Park District. Gary at 773 947-9541 or
garyossewaarde@yahoo.

Save the date September 20, Saturday, 9-noon. Beach Sweep and Clean at Jackson Park. Alliance for the Great Lakes Adopt-a-Beach TM as part of Ocean Conservancy Int’l Cleanup. Volunteers and team leaders will be needed. Look in www.greatlakes.org or contact Julia at jkelso@greatlakes.org, 312.939.0838 x229.

Ross Petersen convened the meeting at the field house, 7:40pm. A quorum was present. The April minutes were approved. The May minutes were approved with attention to its note that a quorum was not present.

General: Youth submitted applications for positions open in the park. Some problems with the citywide application and acceptance program were suggested by attendees.
Discussion was held with Alderman Hairston re: key elements of park district guidelines for park councils, with general consensus in case some matters in the revision may still need clarification.

The principal discussion item was presentation and query on the proposed added tennis-golf-baseball-fitness programming and teaching facility for the tennis court area northeast of Hayes and Cornell Drives. Presenter was Tyrone Mason of Athletes Committed to Education (ACE). A large book was available to be examined and Mr. Mason patiently answered many questions. Alderman Hairston agreed to convene an advertised community meeting in September to hear a Power Point presentation and discuss the project. Meanwhile, ACE would look with its architect at having the facility as low to the ground and non-intrusive, including to vistas, and as “green” as possible, and perhaps 2 or 3 options.

Key elements: The 40-feet high flexible material bubble and attached clubhouse, would be entirely paid for and endowed by ACE at 3.1 million, have a staff of 30 and a budget of $1.1 million a year from gate and not for profit organizations. They said their business model and research is fully done. It would be a new, permanent and attractive structure with normal expectancy 25 years. A contractual arrangement would be signed with the Park District (which had not yet committed to signing). This would require ACE to operate the facility and pay the Park District. This is not the same as sequestering of part of the park for private, non-park uses. There will be fees, but some free hours, training. It would be a draw for and unique to the whole south side. The area is visible, with current ample parking, and will be policed 24-7. A similar facility can be viewed at 87th and Harlem.

ACE said they had explored all other possible sites in the Fifth Ward and this site is at an ideal juncture of park facilities and schools and would provide what is needed short of a major new or addition to the field house to bring back these key sports as part of the experience of South Side youth. They noted that there is demand for the sports but not acceptable facilities in our parks.

Members said JPAC has to be judicious about adding new features to an historic and open space park, avoiding disrupting the vistas that were so important to park designer Frederick Law Olmsted, or having something that calls attention to itself as “non park.”

A community meeting will be convened in a suitable venue, as per above. The meeting was adjourned, next meeting July 14.

Barry Rapoport contacted us about a misleading reference in the May minutes re: the Frederick Douglass project. The memorial does have to be installed by the end of 2008. (Time is therefore of the essence for any who may want to contribute. Contact and make payment to Parkways Foundation, memoed for Douglass Memorial.)

Remember- 2nd and 4th Saturdays Volunteer Workdays on Wooded Island- creating a sustainable and friendly habitat. Meet at Darrow Bridge so. of MSI, 10 am. Goes to 1. 07: 12, 26. 08: 9, 23. 09: 13, 27. 10: 11, 25…. Ross Petersen 773 486-0505.

Save th Date September 20, Saturday morning. Alliance for the Great Lakes wil conduct a beach sweep and clean tha includes Jackson Park. Volunteers and team leaders are needed. Until the registration site is up, contact Julia at jkelso@greatlakes.org.

July 7, Monday, dusk: Movie "The Great Debaters: PG132. 773 256-0903 for location, rain date.

Lacking a quorum, an official meeting could not be held. President Ross Petersen and Vice President Fran Vandervoort presided over an informal discussion of the following topics:

Frederick Douglass Monument. Mr. Rapoport’s proposal for a monument commemorating Frederick Douglass’s speech at the Haitian Pavilion of the Columbian Exposition of 1893. More money is needed to assure the preparation of the commemorative monument by the company selected for the project. Several options were discussed, including approaching the Donors’ Forum. The official deadline for funding and other arrangements for the monument is January 31, 2008.

Summer Day Camp Fee. Terry Jones of the Jackson Park Sorts program corrected the statement in the last minutes that the registration fee for Summer Day Camp participation is $55. The fee is $60.

Archeology Project. The Columbian Exposition archeology project, led by Rebecca Graff, will hold an open house Saturday afternoon, May 17, on the west side of the Columbian Basin. A number of artifacts have been unearthed and will be exhibited. Local and city press will provide coverage for the project.

Next meeting Monday, June 9, 7:30 pm. Main topic: Proposed new sports facility at tennis courts.

Archaeological dig sheds new light on Columbian Exposition
At an open house on May 17, Rebecca Graff, anthropology graduate student at the University of Chicago, teaching assistants and students, showed 6 ½ square by three feet deep plots and demonstrated techniques by which they extract meaning from the smallest clues. They seek understanding of how people used the grounds of the 1893 Columbian Exposition—building foundations, service piping, remains of foods or other things bought a or brought onto the grounds. Especially intriguing is where the trenches and material were actually lain for foundations and the otherwise undocumented piping to the buildings. They also hope to connect bits of glass and pottery, buttons, et al to styles and manufacturers. The plots are only about 3 feet deep except where trenches and piping lead the excavators deeper, as that is the usual depth of soil, slag, gravel etc laid for support and to keep the water table at bay, or re laid on the fair, on top the pre-settlement sand dunes. The fair used the grounds intensively only during construction, the 6 months of the fair, and during demolition or perhaps in some cases burn-down. But objects dropped since have also been found. The plots excavated during this phase of the work are west of the Columbia Basin by Cornell Drive c. 5800. Drop by during work on Fridays and Saturdays.

Also of interest… Museum of Science and industry special exhibits
Smart Home- Green + Wired. This home of possibilities was fabricated, bought to Chicago and assembled southeast of the Museum. Tours give lots of hints on how to be green and same money. Through January 4.
The Glass Experience. Modern glass in great variety shows up in the park. See here an exhibit on the full history of and art of glass and glass-making and uses. Dale Chihuly, whose work graced Garfield Conservatory, will be one of many artists and experts on hand.

Parents and high school students—find out about the many summer youth job and program opportunities available. City website has a comprehensive listing- http://www.cityofchicago.org. See also http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Remember our volunteer workdays, 2nd and 4th Sats- see front. Next June 14. 28/

Doug Anderson’s acclaimed bird and history walks- over 30 years-see front.

5th Ward Olympic dialogue continues with the city June 26 (4th Thursdays.)
Jackson Park Fieldhouse, 6401 S. Stony Island, 6:30 pm. 773 324-5555.

Jackson Park Advisory Council April 14, 2008 meeting minutes

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.

Jackson Park Advisory Council March 10, 2008 meeting minutes

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 t's 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.

Jackson Park Advisory Council - Meeting Minutes February 11, 2008

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.

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

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.

Meeting Minutes- November 12, 2007 Jackson Park Advisory council

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 Schenck 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.

Meeting Minutes-October 9, 2007 Jackson Park Advisory Council

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.

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.

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.

Minutes- Jackson Park Advisory Council September 10 2007 meeting

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.

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.

Jackson Park Advisory Council August 13, 2007 minutes

· 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).

· 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

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.

Jackson Park Advisory Council minutes of July 9, 2007

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.

Minutes of the June 11, 2007 JPAC meeting

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 workday 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.

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.

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.

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.

Minutes of the December 11 2006 JPAC Council Meeting

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

· 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Council dedicated a $1,000 gift from Bishop Arthur M. Brazier to kids and youth programs and scholarships at the fieldhouse.

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:

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.

Recent JPAC meeting minutes and resolutions