City Park Press Releases
Contact: John Hopper(504) 259-1509
jhopper@nocp.org
March 25, 2008
City Park Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival is Back!
Contact: Austin Marks
504.483.1700
What: City Park Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival
When: Saturday, March 29
Registration: 5:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m
Fishing: 5:30 a.m. with Weigh-in at 11:00 a.m.
Fishtival: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Registration and Fishtival at Timken Center by Popp’s Bandstand; Fishing takes place in all 11 miles of City Park lagoons
City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo, a traditional New Orleans event for 61 years, is believed to be the oldest freshwater fishing rodeo in the country and will return on March 29th, 2008. We have a huge event planned to celebrate our return after a 2 year absence due to Katrina’s devastating impact. Shorelines have been cleared, water quality improved and lagoons stocked with bream, catfish and bass. The rodeo includes fishing categories for bass and bream, a team event for Rio Grande Cichlids (non-native fish), a bonus for the younger anglers called “Catfish Kids’ and bonuses with cash awards. Registration begins at 5:00 a.m. and ends at 8:00 a.m. at the Timken Center, with weigh-in by the Bandstand at 11:00 a.m. Entry fees are $10 for adults and $5 for kids (12 and under). Entry fee includes a free raffle ticket for fishing tackle giveaways.
If you don’t fish, be sure to join us for the Fishtival which has expanded to include more activities for children and educational exhibits for everyone. For the children ages 6-12 years old, there will be a casting contest with winners announced at the Awards Ceremony. There will also be demonstrations on how to fly fish, and throw a cast net with an opportunity to try each. And, of course, the annual Mardi Gras toss of fishing lures. All ages will enjoy our greatly expanded educational area with exhibits from over 20 wildlife, conservation and related organizations. Lots of fishing tackle will be raffled off and there will be a silent auction. Fishtival hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. complete with food and music.
Take a kid fishing! This is a great opportunity to introduce children to fishing in a fun-filled and educational environment. So bring the kids and enjoy a great day in a great park!
For more information, check: http://neworleanscitypark.com/fishrodeo.html
March 20, 2008
Easter Egg Hunt at New Orleans City Park
What: Two Easter Egg hunts at New Orleans City Park
When: Sunday, March 23rd
Where: 12:00 noon in the Amusement Park for “older” children at the back lawn by the Scrambler ride.
1 p.m. in Storyland for the “younger” children at the circle by the fire truck.
Regular admission rates to both facilities apply.
March 10, 2008
City Park Athletic Director Receives 2008 Distinguished American Award
Tony Biagas, Athletic Director at New Orleans City Park, has been selected by the Allstate Sugar Bowl Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame as the recipient of the 2008 Distinguished American Award.
Sports at City Park have been a time-honored tradition for over a century in New Orleans, ranging from local football and soccer matches to national tennis tournaments. Hurricane Katrina devastated every major sports facility in the park, including Tad Gormley and Pan American Stadiums where high school sports have taken place for decades.
Biagas, with the help of thousands of volunteers and corporate sponsorships, remarkably opened Tad Gormley Stadium for the Fall 2006 and Fall 2007 seasons to high schools from around the region. While Tad Gormley boasts new turf and a recently improved track, Biagas continues to work with volunteers and private and public donors for additional stadium improvements that will be available for the 2008 Football Season. Pan American Stadium will also be open for the 2008 Football Season with new artificial turf, new bleachers, a refurbished press box and improved facilities.
In addition to the two stadiums, Biagas has been instrumental in bringing many of the sports facilities back to City Park patrons, including soccer fields, the tennis complex, the Bayou Oaks Golf Driving Range, and the Tad Gormley Practice Track.
Biagas, who spent 17 years as the head football coach at St. Augustine High School, graduated from Princeton University where he was an All-Ivy offensive tackle. Receiving this award, Biagas noted, “It’s always the case in receiving an honor like this that there was no one person who did it all. I could not have done it without the support and help of everyone around me.” That may certainly be the case, but City Park athletics would not be where it is today without the great work of Tony Biagas.
The award presentation will be made at the Annual Scholar-Athlete Award Luncheon, Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at 11:45 a.m. in the Versailles Ballroom of the Hilton New Orleans Riverside.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Three Little Pigs, and One Big, Bad Wolf
What: Dedication of the new Three Little Pigs exhibit in Storyland
When: Saturday, March 8 at 11 a.m.
(New Orleans City Park) – Once upon a time there was a magical park with a fairy tale theme named Storyland, featuring dozens of larger than life storybook exhibits for kids to climb on, slide down or pretend to be their favorite character within. And now, the children of New Orleans have yet another exhibit to pretend in.
The Three Little Pigs have built their new homes in Storyland. With all the construction going on in the city, the only materials the Pigs could find were straw, twigs and brick. But no matter how hard you huff and puff, this exhibit is not going anywhere.
The exhibit was built with funds donated by Capital One Bank, Schlumberger and Friends of City Park, among others who will join City Park staff and Board members on Saturday, March 8 at 11 a.m. for the ribbon-cutting that requires no scissors but merely strong lungs to blow that ribbon down.
March 3, 2008
Party Over Here, Party Over There
What: In response to public demand, the Amusement Park at New Orleans City Park now boasts three new climate controlled birthday party houses. In total there are four birthday houses: the Pelican, Raccoon, Alligator and Owl.
Each party house is approximately 450 square feet and comes equipped with two six foot tables and benches for seating.
The new birthday party houses rent for $300 and can be scheduled for parties taking place a) between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. or b) 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Customers have half an hour before their scheduled times to setup and half an hour after to cleanup. Included in the rental cost are 15 unlimited ride bands. Additional ride bands may be purchased for $12.
For folks wanting to visit the Amusement Park but are not interested in renting a birthday house, the Amusement Park is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. $3 entry fee + cost of rides.
To book a party or for more information call (504) 488-2896 or email cpsales@nocp.org.
Where: Inside the Amusement Park within New Orleans City Park
February 27, 2008
New Orleans City Park Adds to Redeveloped Community Picnic Area
Starbucks Donation of $250,000 Expands to the Development of a Playground in the Redeveloped Picnic Area
WHAT: FIRST PLAY for the New Children’s Playground at New Orleans City Park
Before Hurricane Katrina, the picnic area of the New Orleans City Park was one of the most utilized areas, especially for the New Orleans community to celebrate with their families.
The picnic area was heavily damaged by the hurricane, including being submerged in the flood waters that devastated the park. Starbucks Coffee Company, through its Foundation, provided a grant of $250,000 for the rebuilding and revitalization of the shelter and picnic areas of City Park, the signature recreational green space for the city of New Orleans. This grant expanded to include the redevelopment of the picnic area and the development of a children’s playground on the space.
A group of fifth graders from Christian Brothers School will be celebrating the opening of the new playground by being the first group to officially play on the new equipment.
WHEN: Thursday, February 28, 2008 10 a.m.
WHERE: New Orleans City Park Picnic Area
Located on Palm Drive in City Park between the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Marconi Blvd.
WHO:
| Mike Marsiglia, President elect, New Orleans City Park |
| Mitch Landrieu, Lt. Governor |
| Jennifer Hicks, Regional Director, Starbucks Coffee Company |
| Fifth graders from Christian Brothers School |
CONTACT: Jeffrey Ory; Deveney Communication; (504) 949-3999; mobile (504) 458-5866; jdory@deveney.com
March 25, 2008
MUSIC IN THE GARDEN
Contact New Orleans Botanical Garden:
504-483-9386
email nobgmail@yahoo.com
website www.neworleanscitypark.com/garden/
For the New Orleans Botanical Garden, Spring not only means fragrance and flowers but it also means music. The New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park kick-off two different music series this March.
“Thursdays at Twilight”
This very popular series with an array of musicians will begin Thursday, March 13 and run 26 consecutive Thursdays through August 28, 2008. A few of the musicians scheduled to appear this season are John Rankin, Paul Soniat, Pfister Sisters, Tom McDermott and Lynn Drury. Leah Chase will open the series on Thursday, March 13th.
WHERE: Pavilion of the Two Sisters New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park
TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. - Gates Open 6:00 p.m. - Performance Begins
COST: $6.00 Adults, $2.00 Children ages 5-12
SCHEDULE:
March 13 Leah Chase – Opens this year’s series with her sensual soul stirring jazz vocals.
March 20 High Grounds Drifters – Bluegrass, old time country music and mint juleps. Doesn’t get better than this.
March 27 Last Straws – Dixieland, traditional jazz and much, much more.
April 3 Betsy McGovern – Songs and ballads, rich and expressive.
April 10 Tony Green – New Orleans artist performs his special brand of acoustic Eurocentric guitar he calls Gypsy Jazz.
April 17 Paul Soniat with special guests Albinas Prizgintas and John Rankin.
April 24 Lynn Drury – Her original music blends the funky sounds of New Orleans with the countrified roots of Mississippi
May 1 Patrice Fisher and Special Guests – The rhythm of Latin music with the magic of the harp
May 8 Tom McDermott and Connie Jones – Slow stride, fast stride, tango, blues – all New Orleans style.
May 15 New Orleans Original Jazz Ensemble – Traditional New Orleans Jazz, played by folks who love to play.
May 22 Gal Holiday – Western swing to honky-tonk, Gal and the boys are sure to please your country music needs.
May 29 Musica da Camera – “As the (Flat) World Turns”, a musical tale of three centuries of love and treachery.
June 5 Pfister Sisters – Nothing but good times and great jazz harmony.
June 12 Phil Melancon – New Orleans pianist and songwriter plays original music as well as some well known standards.
June 19 The Anderson Duo (David and Catherine Anderson) – A musical match made in heaven, performing David’s own compositions for double bass and harp.
June 26 Symphony Chorus of New Orleans Chamber Chorus – Always a crowd pleaser, bringing an eclectic musical mix to Summer.
July 3 Albinas Prizgintas and Yellow Dog Prophet Choir perform a tribute to the Fourth of July
July 10 Milton Scheuermann and Thais St. Julien – “A Salute to Judy Garland”, songs performed by the woman called America’s Greatest Entertainer.
July 17 M. I. Scoggin, Matt Scoggin and Dr. Will Robicheaux – “Soiree” Edith Piaf’, an evening of songs and history combined, of the life of the famous French chanteuse.
July 24 Darryl Barnes and the New Orleans Jazz Band – Great traditional toe tapping jazz.
July 31 New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus celebrating “Home”, a special commission with New Orleans in mind.
August 7 Louis Hackett and Anne Copeland Sumich – The silver weaving of Jazz Flute and Piano.
August 14 Paul Soniat and Friends – Fellow musicians join singer, songwriter Paul Soniat to perform his original music.
August 21 Terry Rappold – The International Champion Whistler performs Classical and Jazz, including selections from his new CD, “New Orleans whiSOULing” – don’t miss it!
August 28 John Rankin – Considered by many as New Orleans’ best acoustic guitarist. John combines New Orleans rhythms with an assortment of musical styles to create his own unique sound.
Refreshments: Mint Juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, and food.
No outside food, drink, or pets allowed.
“Sundays in the Park”
A new outdoor concert series will also begin this March with three concerts scheduled the second Sunday in March, April and May. This concert series will take place outdoors on the new Robert B. Haspel Stage. According to Paul Soniat, Director of the Botanical Garden, “This new outdoor stage is one of the most beautiful settings in our area for music. The combination of the oak trees, azaleas and the stage itself make for a very unique musical experience.”
WHERE: Robert B. Haspel Garden Stage (Outdoors in the Garden) New Orleans Botanical Garden City Park
TIME: 3:00 p.m. Gates Open, 4:00 p.m. Performance Begins, 8:00 p.m. Gates Close
COST: $6.00 Adults, $2.00 Children ages 5-12
SCHEDULE:
March 9
4:00 p.m. – Ingrid Lucia
5:30 p.m. – Topsy Chapman
April 13 4:00 p.m. – Julio & Cesar 5:30 p.m. – Vivaz
May 11 4:00 p.m. – Soul Project 5:30 p.m. – Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes
Bring your blankets & Chairs (This is an outdoor concert)
Refreshments: Mint Juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, and food.
No outside food, drink, or pets allowed.
February 22, 2008
Stanley Ray Playground Dedication
What: The trustees of the Stanley Ray Trust recently made a gift of $250,000 toward the park’s endowment to maintain the large playground along Dreyfous Avenue. They playground is now named the Stanley Ray Playground. A new arch designating the Stanley Ray Playground has been erected and will be dedicated on Thursday.
Stanley W. Ray, Jr. was born in New Orleans in 1915. Stanley attended Jesuit High School, and had a part time job with the Times Picayune as a student sports reporter; his stories of prep athletic events appeared under his by-line in the Times Picayune.
Stanley entered Tulane University and was a varsity basketball letterman while in undergraduate school. Stanley later graduated from Tulane Law School, and served in the Army Air Corps during World War II.
Both of Stanley’s parents died an untimely death in an automobile accident while Stanley was quite young. He undertook the responsibility of raising his two younger siblings. Stanley’s business endeavors involved the operation of radio stations in the Gulf South area, and various real estate investments. Stanley was always concerned about young people, especially children in need. Stanley established a Trust which provides for needy causes, particularly for young students who have lost one or both parents.
Stanley died in New Orleans unexpectedly in 1970.
When: 11 a.m., Saturday, February 23rd
Where: The Children’s Playground between the Peristyle and Popp’s Bandstand on Dreyfous Avenue
What they are saying: “The playground is one of the most visited and enjoyed areas of the park. All those little hands and feet can exact a toll on the equipment. The generous gift from the Stanley Ray Trust will enable us to serve the needs of our youngest customers for years to come.” --Paul Masinter, President, City Park Board
February 7, 2008
Capital Projects at New Orleans City Park to be Announced
What: Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu, City Park President Paul Masinter and City Park CEO Bob Becker will announce tens of millions in capital projects that will be implemented in the park over the next two years. The funds come from a mix of public and private sources including the State of Louisiana, FEMA, the City of New Orleans, corporate donations and private foundations. Jim Stark, Acting Associate Deputy Administrator for FEMA Gulf Coast Recovery Office and Frank A. Glaviano, Sr., Vice President Production Americas for Shell Exploration & Production are also scheduled to speak.
When: 10 a.m., Monday, February 11th
Where: Pavilion of the Two Sisters within the Botanical Gardens at New Orleans City Park.
January 30, 2008
Tree Planting on Robert E. Lee Sponsored by Shell Exploration & Production
WHAT: 24 one-hundred gallon live oaks are being planted in City Park along Robert E. Lee Boulevard. The trees are part of a grant from Shell that is also supporting the purchase of bollards, tree pruning, and the purchase of plants and shrubs for the Botanical Garden.
WHERE: Along Robert E. Lee Boulevard between Marconi and Wisner.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT: Robert E. Lee Boulevard was recently resurfaced. In conjunction with the resurfacing, a new, meandering bike and jogging path was installed between Wisner and Marconi. Now that the construction equipment has been removed, the park has been able to add the finishing touches, namely the beautiful new live oaks.
The entire park and all the neighborhoods in the northern section of the park were severely damaged by Katrina. A smooth street, a new bike path and some beautiful landscaping are one more indication of the park’s and the neighborhood’s ongoing revitalization.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING:
“As a native New Orleanian, I feel City Park is one of the city’s most valuable environmental assets,” said Frank A. Glaviano, Sr., Shell Vice President Production Americas. “Shell and our employees are proud to have played a role in the recovery of City Park and look forward to enjoying it with our families once again.”
“Shell has a long tradition of supporting and improving the park’s natural environment. We are most grateful to Shell for providing the 24 oak trees along Robert E. Lee. The trees provide the finishing touches on the recently installed bike and jogging path along Robert E. Lee.” “We are also appreciative of Shell’s substantial financial contribution toward the restoration of our 100 year old Carousel.” – Bob Becker, CEO, City Park
Workers from Bayou Tree install one of 24 one hundred gallon live oak trees along Robert E. Lee Boulevard.
One of the 24 live oaks sponsored by a grant from Shell Exploration and Production.
January 15, 2008
Arbor Day Recognition at New Orleans City Park
Arbor Day is celebrated in New Orleans on Friday, January 18th. Over the years, the park has recognized various individuals who have made a profound impact on the park by naming one of the park’s magnificent live oaks in their honor.
Twenty-eight oaks have been named over the years including the 800 year old McDonogh Oak in honor of philanthropist John McDonogh who willed the initial tracts of land to the park and the Enrique Alferez Oak, named after sculptor Enrique Alferez who created many of the art deco sculptures seen throughout the park.
The tradition continues as the following trees have been named in conjunction with this year’s Arbor Day:
1. The Betty Bagert Oak. Betty has been a long-time volunteer at the park and has championed the care and maintenance of the park’s beloved oaks for over 20 years.
2 & 3. The Janet Larue and Barbara Hammett Oaks. Janet and Barbara took over the chairmanship of Celebration in the Oaks in 1991 and stayed on the job – virtually full-time – for 14 years. The ladies took an already established event and grew it exponentially. Celebration in the Oaks continues to delight tens of thousands each year and is a significant fundraiser for the park.
4. The Volunteer Oak – Throughout its 150 year history, volunteers have always played a significant role at the park. Volunteers have truly risen to the challenge since Hurricane Katrina with over 16,000 investing over 83,000 hours of sweat equity in the restoration of the park.
5. The Staff Oak – Named in honor of all park employees, past, present and future.
All the aforementioned trees are significant oaks that are at least 75 years old.
6. The Big Apple Oak – After the hurricane, business leaders from New York, the Central Park Conservancy and Central Park sent people, dollars and equipment to help restore the park. They also planted a beautiful 15 year old oak tree by Popp’s Bandstand which is now named "The Big Apple Oak."
7. The Katrina Oak – Approximately one year before the hurricane, local members of Soka Gakkai International planted 3 live oaks along Lelong Avenue. All three survived the storm but one now has a slight list. We have named it the Katrina Oak.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: "The park is over 150 years old and has over 12,000 trees. Prior to today, only 28 were named. The individuals and groups being honored today have tirelessly helped advance the park and for their commitment and dedication we are profoundly grateful." -- Bob Becker, CEO
December 3, 2007
City Park Benefit Featuring 40 Original Works of Art by Robert Guthrie.
CONTACT:
Robert Guthrie
Robert Guthrie Gallery
504-552-4511
robertguthrie2@bellsouth.net
www.robertguthrie.com
John Hopper
New Orleans City Park
504-259-1509
jhopper@nocp.org
www.neworleanscitypark.com
The Robert Guthrie Gallery in cooperation with New Orleans City Park will host a benefit at City Park in the Pavilion of the Two Sisters on Thursday, December 13, 2007. The event will feature forty original watercolors of selected City Park scenes by New Orleans watercolor artist, Robert Guthrie. Fifty percent of all purchases benefit City Park.
New Orleans, LA, November 30, 2007 – Local New Orleans watercolor artist, Robert Guthrie has created forty original paintings of City Park. Known for his fresh architectural renderings of the French Quarter and his bold whimsical graphic designs, Guthrie lends his experienced hand to this project capturing the spirit and tradition of the Park. His lightness of stroke and bold use of color offers an artistic expression of City Park not to be missed.
All artwork will be for sale at a City Park Benefit on Thursday, December 13, 2007 at The Pavilion of the Two Sisters in City Park. Fifty percent of all sales benefit City Park. The preview party by invitation only is from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and is open to the public from 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. Interested patrons of the arts can request an invitation to the preview party by calling the Robert Guthrie Gallery at (504) 552-4511. The benefit features the sale of all forty originals watercolors as well as fine art giclée prints of ten selected originals. The original watercolors vary in size and theme from the 47” x 60” lush vertical painting of a natural City Park retreat to the 16” x 18” painting of the botanical gardens. Other featured themes include the historic oaks of City Park, the Peristyle and the Carousel.
"The beauty of City Park is such a great inspiration,” says Guthrie, “It’s an honor to create artwork that supports the restoration of City Park."
"We are delighted to partner with an artist as talented as Robert Guthrie. If you love the park, you owe it to yourself to come and see these wonderful watercolors" said John Hopper, Chief Development Officer for City Park.
Paintings for the benefit can be viewed on-line at www.robertguthrie.com.
About Robert Guthrie Gallery – The Robert Guthrie Gallery features the original artwork and fine art giclées of Robert Guthrie. A local New Orleanean for over 30 years, Robert is known for his spirited approach to the French Quarter and New Orleans themes. The Gallery is located at 922 Royal Street in the French Quarter and can be visited on-line at www.robertguthrie.com.
November 27, 2007
- Accepted the City Park Staff’s recommendation that the Park reserve one of the three cultural facilities sites in the approved Plan for the Louisiana Children’s Museum subject to a number of conditions and milestones recommended by the Staff and accepted by the Board. A second proposal submitted by Louisiana Public Broadcasting was considered by the Staff, which concluded that the establishment of what was envisioned primarily as a broadcast and production facility was not the best use of another of the cultural facilities sites. The Board accepted this recommendation.
- Accepted the Staff’s recommendation that renovations to the golf complex must occur primarily in the current golf footprint. The Board also authorized the Staff and Board Executive Committee to engage in discussions with the Bayou District Foundation towards the redevelopment of the golf complex pursuant to conditions and milestones recommended by the Staff and accepted by the Board.
- Concurred with the Staff that the development of golf will move forward immediately with the repair of the North Golf Course (anticipated to be completed in late spring of 2008).
- Accepted various Staff’s recommendations to change the Master Plan including the location for the dog park, skate park, adjusting the plan for Tri-Centennial Place to reflect the relocated skate park and to provide for the potential development of an addition to school facilities within the existing Christian Brothers site and to provide the potential for further development of the equestrian complex.
- Adopted modifications to the Plan’s operating and capital funding strategy to reflect changes resulting from Katrina and its aftermath, both negative and positive.
Contact: Austin Marks (504) 483-1700
City Park’s Board takes action on Master Plan proposals
The Board of Commissioners of the City Park Improvement Association has taken action on several amendments to the Park’s Master Plan as well as provide guidance to groups proposing new or improved facilities in the Park.
Specifically, the Board
CEO Bob Becker stated, "This review of our Master Plan is required and useful. We learn a lot from the public input and the review maintains and even enhances the vitality of our Plan in light of changing circumstances. We never forget how passionately people feel about this Park and this process of reviewing and updating the Master Plan provides us with a great opportunity to hear from all elements of the community about their needs and desires for the Park."
Board President, Paul Masinter stated, "We are very pleased by the attention that the public has paid to this process. It helps assure that the Park serves the needs of this community. Public support by way of contributions of time and money is absolutely essential to the rebuilding of City Park."
The Board yearly reviews the Master Plan, takes public comments and proposals on the Plan, and amends the Plan if appropriate. The Board held a public hearing on the Plan on September 25, 2007 and received comments and proposals through October 23, 2007.
October 30, 2007
Contact: Andrea Legrand (504) 832-0003
Funny Fall in Storyland
(New Orleans City Park) - Storyland continues its Fall line up with three new holiday shows.
Nov 10th at 1:00pm - Carmen Rose known as the "Fairy Godmother Merrily Pop" will make a Thanksgiving feast as the Old Woman in the Shoe watches with envy.
Nov 17th at 1:00pm - Cecilia Casrill Dartez author of the "Jenny the Giraffe" series and "L is for Louisiana" will read from her books and entertain the children with a 3 foot tall giraffe puppet.,p>
Dec 1st at 1:00pm - The Fairy Godmother Merrily Pop returns to Storyland with a Christmas theme show. Come see the lights and the magic during this Christmas special.
All shows are free with Storyland admission. Storyland is open on the weekends from 10am to 5pm. Storyland is also open during the evenings throughout the Celebration in the Oaks Walking Tour beginning November 30.
October 9, 2007
Contact: Austin Marks (504) 483-1700
Deadline For Public Comment On City Park Master Plan Is Extended To October 23
What: Extension of time for the public to comment on proposals for modifications to City Park’s existing Master Plan
When: Time for public comment is extended to October 23, 2007
Where: Comments can be mailed to City Park Improvement Association, 1 Palm Dr., New Orleans, La. 70124 or sent to plan@nocp.org.
Why: The City Park Improvement Association is extending the normal public comment period on proposals affecting the Master Plan. The Park Board will receive comments through 5:00pm on Tuesday, October 23, 2007. The Board has already received a large number of comments (both at the September 25, 2007 public hearing and subsequent to the hearing) and determined that extending the comment period would give everyone who wanted to make a comment the opportunity to be heard. After the public comment period the Board will then consider any modifications to the existing Master Plan of the Park as well as the proposals made by others for new facilities in the Park.
To learn more information about the existing Master Plan, visit www.neworleanscitypark.com/plan.html.
August 27, 2007
New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park Announces Fall Education Programs
The New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park is back in the education business. A wide assortment of education programs will be held at the Botanical Garden. Programs on growing Roses, Color in the Garden, Orchids, and vegetable gardening are just a few of the programs that will be offered.
According to Paul Soniat, Director of the Garden, " It is very important for us to again offer education programs to the public. Restoring individual gardens, and expanding your knowledge of the natural environment, is critical part of the recovery of New Orleans. People have been hard at work restoring their homes, and now we need to restore the beauty of our landscape."
Following is a list of scheduled programs. Please include them in your events listing. For more information on the Garden and City Park please visit www.neworleanscitypark.com/garden. The comprehensive listing of the Education Programs and other Garden Events is available at neworleanscitypark.com/nobgcal.html.
August 7, 2007
Summer Sizzle at City Park
The cool place to be on Saturday, August 25th!
WHAT: Park attractions will offer sizzlin’ hot specials and cool deals on Saturday, August 25th.
| Amusement Park: | First 500 get in free |
| 11:00am – 5:30pm | Free rides on the train all day long. |
| Tennis: | Free Juniors Clinic 8 – 11am |
| 7:00am – 6:00pm | Free Adults Clinic 9 – 10:30am |
| 4.0 Mixed Doubles Round Robin 3 – 5pm | |
| Golf Driving Range: | Half price bucket of balls |
| 9:00am – 5:00pm | |
| Botanical Garden: | Half price for entry |
| 10:00am – 4:30pm | |
| Museum of Art: | 10% off at the Museum Shop |
| 10:00am – 4:30pm |
Additionally, the park will unveil a plaque that recognizes major donors who have helped rebuild the Amusement Park. The park will plant two trees on each side of the plaque; one that recognizes the lives lost during Katrina and another in testament to the spirit of New Orleanians.
WHEN: Saturday, August 25th 11 a.m. at the Amusement Park. Please note: The time was previously published as 10 a.m. We apologize for any confusion.
The plaque dedication will take place in the Amusement Park directly inside the main gates at 10:30 am and is open to the donors and press only.
WHERE: Amusement Park, main entrance. Other activities will take place at other facility locations throughout the park.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT: Folks in Greater New Orleans have been working hard for the past two years. The park is happy to provide an opportunity for a break in the action for those wanting to kick back for a day.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: “The park continues to improve and we invite residents to take a break and enjoy their park!” -- Bob Becker, CEO
June 27, 2007
New Orleans City Park Botanical Garden Receives Getty Foundation Grant
The Getty Foundation has awarded a grant of $120,000 for strategic and transition planning in the Botanical Garden.
The goals of the project are to adopt a strategic plan for the foundation, including a long-range plan for the garden, an educational master plan, and a business and facilities plan that will cover the next five years.
"We are delighted that the prestigious Getty Foundation is investing in the future of the Botanical Garden. With their funding we will be able to chart a clear course for future development of one of the park’s most cherished assets, the Botanical Garden." – Gen Trimble, President, New Orleans Botanical Garden Foundation.
June 18, 2007
New bike, walking and jogging path at City Park
WHAT: Work is nearing completion on a one mile meandering bike, walking and jogging path that parallels Robert E. Lee between Marconi and Wisner.
The path is 10 feet wide and is part of a $5 million project financed by the Federal and State government.
Once the blacktop work is completed, the park will be planting a number of new trees along it via a generous donation from Shell.
WHY IT'S IMPORTANT: City Park's master plan – City Park 2018 calls for a number of new biking and jogging paths within the park. The new path along Robert E. Lee is the first new path to be installed since the hurricane.
June 12, 2007
WHAT: Funding for the Robert B. Haspel Stage within the Botanical Garden was made available by Mrs. Robert B. Haspel in honor of her late husband. The new stage is located in the corner of the Zemurray Azalea and Camellia Garden and provides a permanent stage for musical concerts throughout the year. The performance begins at 6 p.m. Adults $6, Children (5-12) $2, Children under 4 are free. WHEN: 5:00 p.m., Thursday, June 14, 2007 WHERE: Botanical Garden – Zemurray Azalea and Camellia Garden. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT: The park has a long history of providing a variety of outdoor musical events for the citizens of Greater New Orleans. The new Robert B. Haspel Stage provides a new permanent stage in a serene and pastoral setting. WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: "Robert Haspel was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever known and was a great supporter of the Botanical Garden for years and years." -- Gen Trimble, President, Botanical Garden Foundation.Dedication of the Robert B. Haspel Stage in the Botanical Garden of New Orleans City Park
June 6, 2007
Lelong Avenue Makeover at City Park
WHAT: The first trees of a magnificent new landscaped entrance to the park will be planted. The makeover will include the planting of 40 Live Oaks and 130 single stem crepe myrtles. The oaks are 15 years old and approximately 20 feet tall. The crepe myrtles will delight visitors with a bright bouquet of red foliage during the summer months.
After the trees are planted 23 new benches and 12 trash receptacles will be installed.
Total cost for the project is $221,000 and was financed by Rotary International, the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana.
WHEN: Thursday, June 7th at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Along Lelong Avenue between the entrance to the park and the Museum of Art.
WHY IT'S IMPORTANT: Lelong Avenue is a formal entrance to the park. Hurricane winds, termites and mature Shumard oaks necessitated a complete makeover of the entryway.
Lelong in its former glory.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: "They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but people do. Today the park's entrance is bound in a beautiful display of trees that will delight visitors and provide them a restful repast for decades to come." -- City Park CEO Bob Becker
"The president of Rotary International Bill Boyd likes to talk of 'Leading the Way' and that is exactly what Rotarians contributing to our New Orleans repair project are trying to do." -- Jerry Fortino, Governor, Rotary District 6840
(504) 259-1509
