AustinTalks (http://austintalks.org/tag/chicago-park-district/)
Three women have started an online petition to rename 135-acre park in Austin. They hope to soon have a name to recommend to the Chicago Park District, which has the power to make the change. Columbus Park was named a National Historic Landmark in 2003. If the park board approves a name change for Columbus Park, it would be the second – after the renaming of Douglass Park after abolitionist Frederick Douglass.
Fannie Lou Hammer’s life will be depicted at a 6 p.m. Oct. 1 performance in Austin. Featuring Chicago actor and singer E. Faye Butler, the free, socially-distanced event – put on by Goodman Theatre – is one of nine being held at Chicago parks this fall.
The Chicago Park District will offer free access to 69 fitness centers located in parks citywide, including Austin, and a free preview of over 25 fitness classes being offered during winter session. Free lap swim is also available at many citywide pools. Register online or sign in onsite.
The Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks event series welcomes a new initiative into its fold, the teen-led Queering the Parks (QTP) initiative. Chicago youth from across the city, who identify as LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Ally, Plus) are collaborating to support safer public spaces for their communities by hosting inclusive events. The event series will culminate with a MasQUEERade Ball on Sunday, Nov. 17 at Columbus Park Refectory, 5701 W. Jackson Blvd. from 6 to 10 pm.
The park district – with several facilities in Austin – is offering monthly membership from $10 to $20. Three-month passes range from $30 to $60, and an annual pass is $100 to $225. There is also a free three-month fitness center program.
Wednesday’s celebration was organized by the West Side Historical Preservation Society, Garfield Park Advisory Council and Greg Zanis of Crosses for Losses.
Patrons who purchase a fitness center membership (for a month, three months or annual) from March 18 to 24 will receive a complimentary water bottle and towel while supplies last.
The city’s annual holiday tree recycling program will run from Saturday, Jan. 5 through Saturday, Jan. 19. Garfield Park and Riis are two of the 25 parks participating.
The Chicago Park District invites West Side families for a night out March 15 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Columbus Park, 500 S. Central Ave.
“Free Fitness Week” runs from Jan. 8 through 14. Take a fitness class, work out in the gym, go for a swim or try a number of other activities on the West Side and throughout the city.