After a competitive bid process, the contract awarded was for a total of $4,257,000, for a contract period of three years, with two, one-year extension options.

Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. is well known for notable projects such as Teardrop Park in New York City, Bailey Plaza Park at Cornell University and Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City to name a few.

“The Chicago Park District is thrilled to be able to work with the world class landscape architecture firm of Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. for the North Grant Park Renovation Project,” said Chicago Park District Board President Gery Chicago.

“We are confident their work will yield a world class design for Chicago’s historic Grant Park.”

“This area of Grant Park is not only utilized by thousands of nearby residents, but by tourists from around the country and the world as well,” said Timothy J. Mitchell Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO.

“It’s only fitting that this project be helmed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc, a design firm whose experience has successfully shown imagination, inclusiveness, and emphasizes nature and discovery.”

The scope of services for Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. will include the following:

• collection and review of all available plans
• design guidelines and information on the North Grant Park project area
• development of a project-specific website capable of soliciting and receiving public comments
• concept plan development and refinement concurrent with informed public meetings
• production of construction documents
• the bid process
• construction contract award
• final permitting
• extensive coordination with the garage renovation project
• the Chicago Children’s Museum project
• coordination with other City departments and agencies as required

The North Grant Park Project addresses a 25-acre area in the northeast corner of Grant Park, composed of three distinct sections: Daley Bicentennial Plaza, the Cancer Survivor’s Garden, and Peanut Park.

Daley Bicentennial Plaza functions both as a neighborhood park for thousands of nearby residents, as well as the terminus for the BP Bridge that extends eastward from Millennium Park and brings national and international visitors to the site.

Cancer Survivor’s Garden is a contemplative, commemorative space that frames the vista that connects Grant Park with the Burnham Park Museum Campus and the Field Museum in particular.

Peanut Park is a passive, underutilized space between the Cancer Survivor’s Garden and Lake Shore Drive.

Underneath Daley Bicentennial Plaza lies the East Monroe Street Parking Garage which is scheduled to undergo renovation next year.  This will require the removal of the Daley Bicentennial Plaza in its entirety.

Following the garage project, the Chicago Children’s Museum will relocate to the site of the current field house at the Daley Bicentennial Plaza and provide a new field house space for the Park District.

These projects create a unique opportunity to design and construct a world-class, multi-functional, contemporary park space that makes contextual sense and properly connects the disparate spaces that comprise North Grant Park.

Chicago Park District Awards Design Contract to Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates for Grant Park Renovation | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Click here to watch a video on ice skating at Chicago Park District rinks.

Bring your own skates, and ice skating at all outdoor Chicago Park District ice rinks is free.  Skate rentals are $5 at all outdoor rinks except for Daley Bicentennial, which has an additional $1 surcharge.

Concessions are available at select rinks. Please note there is an admission fee at McFetridge Sports Center in California Park, an indoor rink that is open year round except August.

Please note that schedules and fees are subject to change.  Contact the individual ice rinks or the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or visit chicagoparkdistrict.com.

The Chicago Park District operates the following 9 ice rinks:

Daley Bicentennial Park, Grant Park, 337 E. Randolph St.

312-742-7648

Open skate hours:

• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and 7:30 – 9 p.m.
• Tuesday, 2 – 5 p.m. and 7:30 – 9 p.m.
• Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 5 – 9 p.m.
• Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 8 – 9 p.m.

$6 skate rental; admission free.

Group reservations are available during open skate hours. Call the park for further details. There is no concession stand, but hot chocolate is offered in a vending machine.

McFetridge Sports Center, California Park, 3843 N. California Ave.

773-478-2609

Indoor rink; open skate hours:

• All ages: Wednesday and Friday, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 4:30-6 p.m.
• Adults: Wednesday, 9:15 – 10:30 p.m.
• Teens and adults: Friday, 9:15 – 10:45 p.m.

$3 skate rental; admission is $4 for children 12 and younger, $5 for ages 13 and older, and $2 for seniors 60 and older. Food concessions are available.

McKinley Park, 2210 W. Pershing Road, 312-747-5992

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.  No food concessions are available.

Midway Plaisance Park, 1130 Midway Plaisance North (east 59^th Street at Woodlawn), 312-745-2470

Open skate hours:

• Monday – Thursday, 12–7 p.m.
• Friday, 12–4:30 p.m., 5–7 p.m.
• Saturday, 1-9 p.m.
• Sunday, 12–7 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.  Food concessions are available.

Mt. Greenwood Park, 3721 W. 111 St., 312-747-3690

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.

No food concessions are available.

Riis Park, 6100 W. Fullerton Ave., 312-746-5735

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.

No food concessions are available.

Rowan Park, 11546 S. Avenue L, 773-646-1967

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.

Food concessions are available.

Warren Park, 6601 N. Western Ave., 773-761-8663

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Friday, 3 – 5 p.m., 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday – Sunday, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., 3 – 5 p.m., 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.  No food concessions are available.

West Lawn Park, 4233 W. 65^th St., 773-284-6078

Open skate hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 7:30 p.m.

$5 skate rental; admission free.

No food concessions are available.

Note to press: The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park is operated by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. For media information, call 312-742-1149.

Chicago Park District Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Open Nov. 28; Chicago Skating Season Runs Through Feb. 28 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Soldier Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr., hosts its third annual Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 5 at 10am in the United Club for about 600 guests.

The lavish brunch will be one of the few times during the year when the United Club’s fine dining is open to the public.

Families will not only be able feast on a fantastic holiday-themed breakfast, but also visit with Santa, his elves and with a former Chicago Bears’ player, Jerry Azumah.

At the stadium, children under age 12 can decorate a cookie to bring home. Families are encouraged to bring their own ornament to decorate the stadium tree. The top three handmade ornaments will receive prizes.

“We invite everyone to take advantage of this unique holiday event as it’s a special opportunity to experience this historic venue,” said Timothy J. Mitchell, General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District.

Dominick’s is the host sponsor of this annual holiday event. Soldier Field will also be hosting a toy drive benefiting the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation.

Connie Payton and family members plan to be in attendance. All are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys to the event. Donated toys will go to deserving Chicagoland children during this holiday season.

Admission is $50 for adults, $25 for children ages 3-12, and free for children under 3 years of age.

Reservations are only available by calling 312-235-7162 or by emailing sfspecialevents@dncinc.com.

Guests can park in the north garage attached to the stadium for $16 (under 4 hours) and enter directly to the United Club.

Visit soldierfield.net for more information.

About the Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, nearly 50 natural areas, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001.

Historic Soldier Field Opens Up Exclusive United Center Club for Third Annual Holiday Breakfast with Santa Dec. 5 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Polar Adventure Days offer families the opportunity to explore Northerly Island and come face-to-face with live animals, engage in winter activities, watch ice sculpture carvings, and create nature-inspired crafts.

The following features and activities will be available at Polar Adventure Days:

• The first 500 visitors receive a complimentary Polar Adventure Day mug filled with hot chocolate. Limit one per person.
• Nadeau’s Ice Sculpture transforms blocks of ice into magical creations on site.
• Various live animals will be on site to discover such as birds of prey.
• An arctic camping demo.
• Siberian huskies will be present and adventurers will talk about their Iditarod dog sled race experiences.
• Live entertainment including storytelling centered around winter tales.
• Arts and craft tables for making nature-inspired creations.
• Free snowshoe rental for exploration of the island (if there is snow).

Please call to confirm scheduled activities for Polar Adventure Days as activities are subject to change.

For more information, call 312-742-PLAY.

Directions by car to Northerly Island:

Take Lake Shore Drive (N or S) to the 18th Street/Museum Campus exit. Follow Museum Campus Drive toward Adler Planetarium. Turn right on Lynn White Drive.

Go past the Charter One Pavilion (on left) and the Burnham Harbor Yacht Club (on right). The visitor center and free parking are on the left.

Northerly Island is also accessible by public transportation:

Take the #146 bus, exit at Lynn White Drive and walk south to the Visitor Center.

About Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 bird and wildlife gardens, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY).

Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling, 312-742-PLAY.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Marta Juaniza, 312-742-4798

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner, 312-742-4786

Fifth Annual “Polar Adventure” Days Offer Families Three Days of Winter Fun at Northerly Island | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Consisting of 100 defoliated trees approximately 12-15 feet in height painted with vivid orange and yellow hues, the exhibit emphasizes the elegant shape and branching structure of each tree’s canopy.

“Historically over the last 10 years, the Park District has introduced various artistic projects in the landscape and found that these artistic elements really engaged our park visitors,” said Adam Schwerner, Chicago Park District Director of Natural Resources.

“With the monochromatic winter season about to settle on the Chicago region, our intent is to provide a colorful focal point for both motorists and pedestrians to enjoy.”

Located west of Lake Shore Drive, east of the Rowing Lagoon, south of Fullerton Avenue and north of North Avenue, the trees are arranged in an organic sweep in an open grassy area between the parking area east of the Lincoln Park Zoo.

At the western most tip of the exhibit area, the “Painted Forest” surrounds a park bench that is painted orange to match the trees, which is just west of the running path.

The defoliated trees used in the exhibit are dead trees without leaves that the Park District and Moore Landscapes, Inc. decided to incorporate into an outdoor artistic display.

The trees were sourced from various nurseries in the region and installed by drilling holes into the ground and then back-filling the holes with gravel for maximum stability.

About Moore Landscapes, Inc.

Moore Landscapes, Inc. of Northbrook works to create, enhance and preserve their clients’ landscape investments by providing professional services through highly-qualified and dependable people.

Moore has been the Chicago Park District’s contractor for the Floral Design and Maintenance Contract since 2004. This contract includes more 80 gardens in parks throughout Chicago. For more information go to moorelandscapes.com.

About the Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 bird and wildlife gardens, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY).

Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling 312-742-PLAY.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Pearson, 224-383-2121

Chicago Park District and Moore Landscapes Install an Artistic “Painted Forest” in Lincoln Park | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The event, co-hosted by the IDVA and the Chicago Park District, will give Veterans with disabilities the opportunity to try a wide variety of sports equipment with adaptive fitness specialists from across the region.

The day includes various adaptive activities such handcycling, rowing, golf, seated aerobics, table games, fishing, wheelchair basketball, football, and more.

Refreshments will be provided to all participants. Parking is free.

This event is free. Participants are asked to pre-register by emailing chris.miller@illinois.gov or calling 312-814-5538.

WHO:

• Dan Grant, Director, Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs
• Chicago Park District officials
• Illinois disabled Veterans and their families

WHAT: “Veterans’ Adaptive Activities Day”

WHEN: 10am-2pm, Friday, Oct. 9, 2009

WHERE:

Northerly Island Visitor Center
1400 S. Lynn White Dr.
Chicago, IL 60605

Organizations participating in the event include:

Adaptive Adventures, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Midwest Wheelchair Sport & Social Club, Schwab Rehabilitation Center, Great Lakes Adaptive Sports, National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project, Paralyzed Veterans of America, U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Kostas Z Foundation, Project Mobility, Disabled Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation, Disabled American Veterans, BulletBall Games, Project Mobility, Chicago Indoor Rowing, Diveheart’s Military Wounded, NEDSRA, Special Recreation Association Network of Northern Illinois, Archery Custom Shop of Oak Forest and Inclusive Fitness Coalition.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sabrina L. Miller (IDVA) 312-814-8194

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner (Park District) 312-742-4786

Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Chicago Park District Host “Veterans’ Adaptive Activities Day” Oct. 9 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The Chicago Park District’s nature areas program is hosting a photography contest of nature in Chicago to illustrate the natural beauty and biological diversity that exists within our own city.

The contest is open to all skill levels and judging will be based on nature photos taken within the City of Chicago in the following categories:

• native flora (plants)
• native fauna (animals)
• migratory birds
• Chicago lakefront
• people in nature
• photos by youth (14-18) in the above categories

Winners of the photography contest will have the opportunity to exhibit their work at several Chicago Park District cultural centers, as well as have this work auctioned at the 2010 Chicago Wilderness Congress and the Lincoln Park Conservancy’s Annual Gala.

The contest will run from today, Oct. 1 until Nov. 15. All photos must be taken within the City of Chicago.

Photographers are asked to upload and submit photos by joining the “Chicago Park District Nature Photo Contest” group on Flickr at flickr.com/groups/cpdnaturephotocontest.

When adding photos to the group, photographers are asked to tag their photo with the category they are submitting the photo under. As an example, the photo should be tagged with “CPD Nature_Native Flora”.

Also, please read the contest rules before participating.

For more information about the “Nature in Chicago” Digital Photography Contest & Exhibition click here.

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, nearly 50 nature areas, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Contact the Chicago Park District also at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY).

Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling, 312-742-PLAY.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Zvezdana Kubat, 312-742-4791

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner, 312-742-4786

Take Your Best Shot! Chicago Park District Hosts “Nature in Chicago” Digital Photography Contest and Exhibition | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The park, formerly known as Park No. 1043, was renamed for Willye B. White (1939-2007) last winter. Today, the group unveiled art work dedicated to the former Olympian.

The Chicago Park District and the Public Building Commission recently completed construction of the new 18,325 square ft. community center with a gymnasium, club rooms, a fitness center, offices, lockers and shower rooms.

In honor of this impressive new facility, it was proposed that the park be named in honor of Willye B. White, a five-time Olympian who won two medals in the Olympics and numerous others in Pan-American Games and Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) meets in track and field.

Sports Illustrated for Women named her as one of the 100 greatest women athletes of the 20th century.

Born on Dec. 31, 1939, in Money, Mississippi, Willye White was raised by her grandparents in Greenwood, Mississippi. She picked cotton to help support her family, but also found time to participate in sports.

As a 16-year-old high school sophomore, she spent summers training with famed track and field coach Ed Temple at Tennessee State University and soon won a silver medal in the long jump at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne, Australia.

This marked the first time an American woman had won a medal in that event. She went on to compete in four consecutive Olympic Games.

After moving to Chicago in 1960, she began a career as a nurse and went on to become a public health administrator. In 1991, she founded the Willye White Foundation to help children develop self-esteem and encourage them to become productive citizens.

That same year, she began working for the Chicago Park District as director of recreation services. In that capacity, she developed important programs such as sports initiatives for young girls in housing projects; the Great American Workout at Buckingham Fountain; a co-ed football camp at Soldier Field; and a program to recognize outstanding female athletes in 66 city high schools.

Throughout her life, Willye White received much recognition and many honors.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), honored her humanitarian efforts selecting her as the first American winner of the Pierre de Coubertin International Fair Play Award, named for the founder of the modern Olympic Games.

She was elected to 11 halls of fame, and in 1999, Springfield College awarded her with an Honorary Doctorate Degree. The U.S. House of Representatives recently named a Chicago post office in her honor.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Marta Juaniza, 312-742-4798

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner, 312-742-4786

City and Park District Dedicate New Field House in Honor of Former Olympian Willye White in Rogers Park Community | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Families can meet live nocturnal animals like fruit bats, spiders, owls and more, as they make a rare daytime appearance at the Conservatory.

Visitors will learn about the creatures’ ability to learn adaptation “tricks” and get a very special “treat” at special critter stations.  Other fun activities include spider plantings, wormy apples, and much more.

Admission to Creatures of the Night is free. For more information go to garfield-conservatory.org or call 773-638-1766.

Directions

Garfield Park Conservatory is located just fifteen minutes west of downtown. From I-290, exit Independence Avenue (3800 west) and travel north. Turn east onto Washington Blvd. Turn north onto Central Park Avenue (3600 west).

Alternatively, take the CTA Green line and exit at Conservatory/Central Park Drive.

About Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 bird and wildlife gardens, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY).

Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling 312-742-PLAY.

Discover What is Actually Going Bump in the Night at Garfield Park Conservatory’s “Creatures of the Night” | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The new program is the second $100,000 donation from the Abbott Fund for a Wellness Program at a Chicago Park District location following the June 2008 opening at Broadway Armory Par k, 5917 N. Broadway St. The Abbott Fund is the philanthropic foundation of Abbott, a leading global health care company with headquarters in northern Chicagoland.

“This new wellness program is part of a city-wide effort to decrease obesity rates,” said Timothy J. Mitchell, Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO. “The generous support of the Abbott Fund will have a positive impact on the health of the Humboldt Park community.”

Recent studies have shown obesity and diabetes as major health issues in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. The new Abbott Fund Wellness Program will provide the community with multifaceted nutrition and fitness programming that includes year-round programming of fitness classes, inflatable jumping gyms, fitness arcading, and more.

Brenda Palm, Executive Director of Parkways Foundation, said, “The Abbott Fund’s lead support for this Wellness Program serves as a powerful example of the momentum that private funding brings to launching new health living programming in the parks. This initiative is possible through generous supporters along with key partnerships and collaborations.”

“The Abbott Fund is pleased to partner once again with the Park District and Parkways Foundation to help improve the health of families in Chicago,” said Cindy Schwab, vice president, Abbott Fund. “A key focus for the Abbott Fund is building healthier communities, and this new Wellness Program will help provide fun ways to get fit and learn about nutrition and healthy living.”

The new Abbott Wellness Program is the result of a citywide effort led by the Interdepartmental Task Force on Childhood Obesity, comprised of the Chicago Department of Public Health; Chicago Department of Family and Support Services; Chicago Department of Zoning and Land Use Planning; Chicago Department of Transportation; Chicago Housing Authority; Chicago Public Schools; and the Chicago Park District. Together, these organizations are working to establish wellness centers in high-risk areas of obesity throughout the city of Chicago to meet the health and fitness needs of children and families.

The Chicago Park District’s mission promotes, encourages and motivates the development of a physically active and healthy lifestyle for Chicagoans of all ages and abilities. Every week, one out of three Chicagoans – more than 900,000 residents – uses their neighborhood park, participating in the thousands of program offerings.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Press office, 312-742-7529

Chicago Park District and Parkways Foundation Launch New Abbott Fund Wellness Program in Humbolt Park | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The Chicago Park District’s Board of Commissioners approved an order to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Chicago accepting the transfer of TIF funds in the amount of $10 million for Ping Tom Memorial Park, 300 W. 19th St.

The Board of Commissioners voted on the recommendation today. Upon the Board’s approval, Ping Tom Memorial Park’s north shoreline would undergo development. This area consists of more than five acres and 875 linear feet of shoreline.

Park improvements will consist of shoreline retaining wall work along the river edge that includes fish habitat, natural shoreline pockets, extension of the Riverfront Trail, landscaping and native plantings, open lawn area for recreation, fishing station, river edge plaza, boardwalk over the water, engineering services, surfacing, and utilities and other park amenities.

The City of Chicago is authorized under the provisions of the Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act to finance projects that eradicate blight conditions and conservation factors that could lead to blight through the use of tax increment allocation financing for redevelopment projects.

The City of Chicago has set aside TIF funds in certain TIF districts for the acquisition, development or enhancement of existing parks.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Press office, 312-742-7529

Chicago Park District Receives $10 Million for Development of Ping Tom Memorial Park on Shoreline | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Located east of the Lincoln Park Zoo and west of Lake Shore Drive in the south end of Lincoln Park’s rowing lagoon between Fullerton and North avenues, the floating tropical oasis was planted in a retired lifeguard boat, that is a seventeen inch Boston Whaler and secured by three concrete block anchors.

Designed by Kathleen Mullaney of Moore Landscapes Inc., the tropical oasis themed FloatingGarden provides an element of surprise and delight to those who pass it. Bright red bamboo poles were added to compliment the bright plant palette and acts as a trellis for the vining flowers.

The plants in the FloatingGarden were selected for their bright colors, texture and bold foliage such as annual vines (potato vine and Algerian ivy), annual flowers and ornamental grass (star flower, lantana, petunias, Brazilian verbena and purple fountain grass.)

The tropical selections include croton, mandevilla vine, shrimp flower, annual hibiscus, canna, cordyline, and bamboo. For variety, fall ornamental grasses (millet and Juncus) were added, as well as ornamental cabbage.

From a distance, the FloatingGarden displays a vibrancy of red, orange and yellow flowers with green and burgundy foliage. Vines and flowers drape over the top deck of the boat into the water.

All of the plants used in this visual display came from local suppliers. Pots and containers from all plant material are collected, sorted and picked up by area growers who will reuse or recycle the plastic materials. All landscape debris (including the soil) will be composted. The bamboo will be reused in future special projects.

After mid-October when the Floating Garden is dismantled, the appropriate plant material will be recycled and used in next year’s annual garden displays in parks throughout Chicago. Moore Landscapes Inc. works closely with the Lincoln Park Conservatory staff to reuse the tropical plants each year.

About Moore Landscapes Inc.

Moore Landscapes Inc. of Northbrook works to create, enhance and preserve their clients’ landscape investments by providing professional services through highly qualified and dependable people. Moore has been the Chicago Park District’s contractor for the Floral Design and Maintenance Contract since 2004. This contract includes more 80 gardens in parks throughout Chicago.

For more information go to moorelandscapes.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Press office, 312-742-7529

Floating Garden Sets Sail in Lincoln Park’s, Park District and Moore Landscapes Partner to Recycle Boat | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

This internationally recognized, critically acclaimed troupe of clowns, contortionists, acrobats, actors and a dog will perform eight heart stopping shows with limited seating.

In the event of rain, the Circus will come to life in the park gymnasium.

Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave., 312-742-7511

• Saturday, Sept. 19, performances are 2pm and 5pm
• Sunday, Sept. 20, performances are 1pm and 4pm

Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland Ave., 312-742-7518

• Saturday, Sept. 26, performance are 2 pm and 5 pm
• Sunday, Sept. 27, performances are 1pm and 4pm.

All proceeds will benefit the Welles and Chase Park’s play lot funds.All tickets are $15 for all guests.Children under 2 are admitted free.Get your tickets early, limited seating!

To purchase tickets visit circusintheparks.com or midnightcircus.net.

The event is presented by the Chicago Park District, Alderman Gene Schulter, Welles Park Advisory Council, and Chase Park Advisory Council.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Press office, 312-742-7529

Chicago’s Midnight Circus Brings Its High-Flying Circus to Welles and Chase Park Sept. 19 and Sept. 26 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Chicago 2016 and World Sport Chicago joined more than 1.500 children in celebrating the Olympic and Paralympic Games at a special event held today in Horner Park as part of the Chicago Park District summer camp. The event was the culmination of a summer full of activities undertaken by 30.000 youth as part of the Park District’s Olympic-themed summer camp.

“Our strong partnership with the Chicago Park District allowed us to augment existing programming to reach a large number of Chicago’s youth this summer and expose them not only to Olympic and Paralympic sports, but also to the values and ideals of the Olympic Movement,” said Patrick G. Ryan, chairman and CEO of Chicago 2016. “As a Candidate City for the 2016 Games, we are dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy, specifically as it relates to youth programs.”

To kick off the event, campers participated in an Opening Ceremony that included six torch runners, followed by an introduction of the children from 89 different parks, each representing a different country and carrying its respective flag. Olympic curler Anne Swisshelm attended the celebration and interacted with the kids and Olympic hopeful Stephanie Miller provided an archery demonstration.

The summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games theme brought many new sport and fitness activities to the children enrolled in the camp program at various neighborhood parks. Today’s event showcased the children’s enthusiasm for the Olympic and Paralympic Games and demonstrated World Sport Chicago’s commitment to engaging the community and keeping the city’s children active through sports programming.

As the living legacy of Chicago 2016, World Sport Chicago aims to promote on-going participation in sport for area youth.  Since its inception, World Sport Chicago has worked through strategic partnerships with local organizations such as the Chicago Park District, the City of Chicago and the Chicago Public Schools to promote recreational and competitive sport programs throughout the region.

About Chicago 2016

Chicago 2016 is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose mission is to seek the privilege of hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Chicago. The committee’s board consists of business, civic, athletic, cultural and academic leaders representing Chicago and the surrounding Midwest region. Patrick Ryan serves as the organization’s chairman and CEO.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chicago 2016 Media Line, +1.312.861.4826
media@chicago2016.org

Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid Committee and Chicago Park District Youth Conclude A Summer of Olympic Spirit | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Soldier Field and SMG, the managing operator of Soldier Field, announce the 3rd Annual Cornhole Classic Tournament and Festival Saturday, July 18 in Soldier Field’s South Courtyard (inside Gate O), 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr.

The tournament begins at 10 a.m. for the competitive doubles and social singles and at 1 p.m. for competitive singles and social doubles.  The top four participants in these divisions will compete for $4,000 in cash and prizes.

Admission is free to the event.  Fees and times to compete in the tournament are as follows:

• Kids and First-time Throwers, Free, 10 a.m.
• Social Singles Division, $25, 10 a.m.
• Competitive Doubles Division, $90, 10 a.m.
• Competitive Singles Division, $50, 1 p.m.
• Social Doubles Division, $50, 1 p.m.

Hundreds of Chicago cornhole fans, as well as other baggers from across the Midwest, will be tossing corn-filled bags to win the admired Soldier Field Cornhole Classic Championship crown. Participants will enjoy music, delicious food and some laughs while competing in this tournament. T-shirts and give-a-ways will be available for each participant.

SMG hosts and organizes the tournament. This year, SMG has partnered with the American Cornhole Organization (ACO) who will be running the Maize Kraze TOP GUN Competitive Singles Division. This ACO-sanctioned division is open to all ACO pros, semi-pros, and any amateur wanting to see how they stack up against the best players in the world.

Cornhole.com and Chipotle restaurant sponsor this year’s tournament.  The Soldier Field Cornhole Classic is the Midwest’s largest organized cornhole tournament.

About the game

Baggo, corn toss, bean bags or cornhole, as it is most commonly called, is an increasingly popular game across the nation where players toss a one-pound bag filled with corn at a sloped box with a hole at one end.   The points are awarded either by tossing the bag into the hole for three points, or if the bag stays atop the box, the player earns one point.  The first individual or team to score 21 points wins the game; best of three games wins the match.

To register or for more information, please call 312-235-7000 or go to SoldierField.net.

About Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 10 museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, nearly 50 natural areas, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Marta Juaniza, 312-742-4798

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner, 312-742-4786

Chicago’s Third Annual Soldier Field “Cornhole Classic” Bags Tournament July 18 Awards $4,000 in Cash Prizes | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Parkways Foundation and Chicago Park District are teaming up this summer to offer visitors a rare chance to tour Chicago’s Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain’s underground pump works and learn more about the city’s iconic monument.

“We are excited to offer the public a chance to get up close and personal with Chicago’s iconic fountain,” said Tim Mitchell, Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO.  “Visitors can get a very unique historical perspective about the City and this beloved fountain, while helping give back to the preservation of the fountain and its legacy.”

The 30-minute tours, led by Julia Bachrach, Chicago Park District Historian, are offered each Friday at noon and at again 12:30p.m. running through Friday, Sept. 4, 2009.  The cost of the tour is $50 and includes a Buckingham Fountain restoration project commemorative poster.  For reservations or more information contact the Parkways Foundation at 312-742-5368 or rsvp@parkways.org.

All proceeds from the Buckingham Fountain Friday Tours will benefit the restoration of Buckingham Fountain.

During its 2008-2009 winter hiatus, the world-famous fountain underwent the first phase of renovations that included 235,000 square feet of new ADA accessible paving, installation of concrete stairs at the north and south, repairs to existing comfort stations and concession buildings, and restoration of the original landscape design with additional site lighting and benches. The historic fence surrounding the fountain was also repaired, including complete realignment, adjustments to shifted foundations, and replacement of missing components.

The second phase of renovations is slated to begin during the 2009 – 2010 winter hiatus and will include the restoration and repair of the fountain itself. A temporary heated shelter will be built around the fountain so that work can progress during the winter months.  The scope of work in this next phase involves rebuilding the lower basin, installation of a new plumbing system, repair of the electrical system, rehabilitation of the historic pump house, and restoration of the fountain’s bronze sculptural elements.

About Parkways Foundation

Since its inception in 1994, Parkways Foundation has been funding park projects all over Chicago.  The foundation has raised millions of dollars toward historic preservation and restoration, programming initiatives and environmental enrichment.  Parkways Foundation seeks private investment to enrich the physical and cultural landscape of Chicago’s neighborhood parks. For more information about the Parkways Foundation please call 312-742-4808.

About Chicago Park District

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7,600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, nine museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, nearly 50 nature areas, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY). Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling, 312-742-PLAY.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Zvezdana Kubat, 312-742-4791

Alison Krzys, 312-742-4807

Rare Buckingham Fountain Tours Offered Fridays in Chicago This Summer | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

“The Chicago Park District is excited to welcome the 98 purple martin nestlings to Chicago,” said Timothy J. Mitchell Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO. “As part of our commitment to nature and wildlife, we launched a purple martin conservation program in the spring of 2002 by installing 18 purple martin houses in Chicago’s parks. We are happy to see this program soar with success, thanks in large part to the dedicated volunteer landlords.”

Purple martins are the largest member of the swallow family and the only species of martin in North America. Historically, purple martins nested in natural cavities such as excavated woodpecker holes, crevices in scraggly rock faces, or cavities of old trees. Unfortunately, little suitable purple martin habitat remains in the eastern U. S. As a result these birds have come to nest almost exclusively in colonies of human-made nest boxes such as houses and gourds.

Through the program, volunteer purple martin “landlords” help monitor the health and productivity of each purple martin colony by visiting the house on a weekly basis and recording data about the colony such as:

• the arrival of purple martins in the spring,
• nest-building activities of the colony,
• number of eggs laid,
• number of young that leave the nest.

Volunteers also check for nest-site competitors and nest parasites and assist with end-of-the season cleaning and closing of the houses.

To learn more about the purple martin program, please contact the Volunteer Stewardship Coordinator at 312-742-4072.

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 7600 acres of parkland, 570 parks, 26-miles of lakefront, ten museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, 10 bird and wildlife gardens, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY). Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling, 312-742-PLAY.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jessica Maxey-Faulkner, 312-742-4786

Zvezdana Kubat, 312-742-4791

Chicago Park District Welcomes Its Newest Residents to Lincoln Park: Nearly 100 Purple Martin Nestlings | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.