City Park Press Releases
Contact: John Hopper
(504) 259-1509
jhopper@nocp.org
October 16, 2008
Billy Casper Visits City Park
WHAT: “Play The Park Golf Tournament”
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 14th – An appearance by Billy Casper at 11:45 a.m.
WHERE: North Course – New Orleans City Park
WHY: Legendary golfer Billy Casper will participate in activities surrounding “Play the Park Tournament” at the North Course at City Park which recently reopened following three years of inactivity due to damage sustained from Hurricane Katrina.
Billy Casper will appear at 11:45 a.m. for a tribute commemorating the 50th anniversary of his victory at the Greater New Orleans Invitational Open at City Park in 1958.
Known for his mastery around the greens, Casper – the namesake of Billy Casper Golf (BCG), the recently appointed operator of the North Course – will conduct a free putting and short game exhibition at 4 p.m. with special guests from Fore!Kids Foundation of New Orleans and the Bayou District Foundation Junior Program. Casper will also sign autographs, pose for photos, and generally entertain golfers with stories from his decades on the PGA and Champions Tour.
“New Orleans will always have a special place in my heart,” says Casper, a PGA Hall of Famer. “It’s a priviledge to witness City Park’s revival and the ongoing rebirth of New Orleans, and to welcome area golfers back to their home course for this terrific tournament.”
Approximately 28 teams and 112 golfers will participate in the four-person scramble tournament, with proceeds benefitting City Park and City Park Golf. The winning team will receive a pin-flag autographed by Casper and complimentary golf at the North Course.
“Billy Casper is the ideal guest for this special occasion,” CEO of City Park, Bob Becker said. “He brings genuine enthusiasm for the game and New Orleans, as City Park is where his legendary career took flight.”
Schedule of Events:
10:30 a.m. – Registration
11:45 a.m. – Welcome Address (Billy Casper Recognition )
12:00 p.m. – Shotgun Start
4:00 p.m. – Billy Casper putting and short game exhibition
5:00 p.m. – Tournament Reception/Awards Ceremony
October 16, 2008
I Wanna Take you Higher! -- Sly and the Family Stone
WHAT: Sly Stone may sing about taking you higher, but Dow Chemical Company Foundation actually will on the new Ferris Wheel at New Orleans City Park.
The park’s old Ferris Wheel was damaged by Katrina. The Dow Chemical Company Foundation graciously donated the funds that will allow the park to take patrons to new heights. The old Ferris Wheel was 50 feet tall and could seat 36 passengers. The new Ferris Wheel will soar 67 feet and can seat 48 folks. Approximately 40 students from Christian Brothers School will help Dow and City Park officials take the wheel for a spin.
WHEN: Wednesday, November 12th at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: The Amusement Park. Enter through the front gate at the intersection of Anseman and Victory within the park.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT: First and foremost, there is a large demand from parents for fun activities for their children. Secondly, many of the Amusement Park features such as the Train, the Carousel, the Ferris Wheel and the Lady Bug Roller coaster are local icons. Lastly, the Amusement Park generates much needed revenue for the park.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: “The Dow Ferris Wheel will be a symbol of fun and laughter for children and adults alike. At Dow, we feel City Park is a place where New Orleanians along with others in this region can come together to enjoy and celebrate life. We are excited to be part of that.” -- Nawzer Parakh, VP of Operations, Dow St. Charles Operations.
“The new Ferris Wheel is another example of how we are not just repairing the park but building a better park. The new wheel is bigger, holds more riders and offers breathtaking views. We thank Dow Chemical Company Foundation for their generous support.” -- Bob Becker, CEO, City Park
October 16, 2008
What goes up, must come down
Demolition of several City Park buildings damaged by Hurricane Katrina has begun. Demolition has started on the Tennis Building and will commence soon on the park’s former administration building. Next in line for demolition are the Bayou Oaks Golf Clubhouse and golf cart barn.
The park is awaiting the release of $3.3 million from the State for the construction of a new tennis facility. A new administration building will be constructed at the site of the old administration building. The new building should be done in approximately two years.
What they are saying: “The demolition of the buildings marks another milestone in the park’s recovery and rebuilding efforts. Construction of new buildings and facilities will allow us to better serve the community and our employees.” -- Bob Becker, CEO
September 26, 2008
Tad Gormley Sports Major Improvements
What: The Sugar Bowl Committee will be recognized Saturday evening as $400,000 in improvements to Tad Gormley’s concession areas, locker rooms and bathrooms are debuted. New appliances, fixtures, carpet, lockers, countertops and paint. You name it, it’s new. The Sugar Bowl Committee has pledged another $400,000 toward future improvements at the stadium.
Where: A brief ceremony will take place at midfield prior to Saturday’s game that pits McDonogh 35 against St. Augustine.
When: The ceremony will take place at approximately 7:10 p.m. Press wanting to see the improvements at another time can call John Hopper at the number listed above.
Why it’s important: Over $3 million has been invested in the stadium since Katrina; the majority of which came from FEMA. Park management and the leadership of the Sugar Bowl Committee both agreed that the locker rooms, bathrooms and concession areas needed not to be returned to their former condition, but rather upgraded significantly. The results speak for themselves.
What they are saying: “As a former coach and now the Director of Athletic Services at City Park, I can’t tell you how pleased I am with all the improvements made possible through the generosity of the Sugar Bowl Committee. The student athletes of Greater New Orleans and the public are indebted to the Sugar Bowl Committee for their support.” -- Tony Biagas
September 5, 2008
City Park Reopens
NEW ORLEANS. While a full assessment of damages is incomplete, park officials believe Hurricane Gustav caused between $500,000 and $1,000,000 in damages, primarily as a result of downed trees, debris, and lost revenue.
Staff, volunteers, and hired contractors are currently in the process of clearing debris and righting approximately 200 recently planted trees. Staff is also assessing building and utility damage throughout the park. Playground areas have been cleared and are awaiting youngsters.
The park will officially reopen on Monday, September 8. The Parkview Café in the Casino Building will reopen Monday morning along with the park’s administrative offices. The Botanical Garden will reopen on Tuesday. We anticipate that tennis, Storyland, the Amusement Park, Pan American Stadium, Tad Gormley Stadium and THE NORTH GOLF COURSE(!) will be open for operations and football games by next weekend.
September 5, 2008
City Park Super Saturday Volunteer Day
NEW ORLEANS. Gustav huffed and he puffed but he could not blow City Park, or Storyland’s Three Little Pigs exhibit down. Storyland and the rest of the park do, however, have a lot of debris that needs to be removed.
The park’s regularly scheduled Super Saturday will take place on Saturday, September 6th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Volunteers will meet in front of Storyland and are asked to bring, rakes, plastic bags, gloves, and other garden tools if they have them. Volunteers should also bring any cold drinks they wish to consume.
August 29, 2008
City Park Closure
NEW ORLEANS. Due to the possible impact of Hurricane Gustav, New Orleans City Park will close at 5 p.m. today. Conditions permitting, the park will reopen at 8 a.m. on Thursday, September 4th.
August 25, 2008
Golf Returns to New Orleans City Park
NEW ORLEANS Two days of festivities will usher in the return of golf at New Orleans City Park.
On Friday, August 29th City Park in partnership with The Fore!Kids Foundation and the Bayou District Foundation will host the Play the Park Golf Tournament on the North Course. All proceeds benefit City Park and City Park Golf.
Schedule of Events:
-
11:00 a.m. Registration
12:15 p.m. Welcome address
12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start – on course food and beverage
5:00 p.m. Tournament Reception and Awards Presentation
On Saturday, August 30, 2008 fifty-six winning lottery foursomes will officially start a new era of golf on the North Course. The awarded starting times will cover the period between 6:00 a.m. and 1:56 p.m. In addition to a free round of golf, lottery winners will also be treated to on-course food and refreshments, as well as a sleeve of Nike golf balls.
The North Course will open its general tee sheet for reservations at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, August 26 through its call center and website. The first available starting time for general play will be 2:04 p.m. on Saturday, August 30th. Players will be permitted to reserve times up to eight (8) days in advance online and seven (7) days in advance through the call center (800) 504-0677.
On Saturday, August 30, a number of other activities will be hosted at the North Course and driving range, including a site visit by Master’s and US Open Champion Billy Casper. Billy will attend a ceremony in his honor at 9:00 a.m. adjacent to the main putting green and then conduct an hour-long putting and short game clinic for approximately 60 First Tee of New Orleans golfers. Billy will be available for interviews and photo opportunities before lunch, between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. After lunch, Billy will sign autographs and interact with fans on the driving range, between 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Some of golf’s leading equipment companies, Nike, Callaway, Titleist and Taylor-Made, will host a demo-day on the driving range between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., where golfers and other guests can try out the latest equipment offerings from each manufacturer. Members of the PGA will also be donating 10-minute lessons to golfers and guests throughout the demo day.
What they are saying: “Golf and City Park are synonymous and the two have been separated for too long. We are delighted to bring a major portion of the park back into action and invite area golfers to come play the park.” Bob Becker, CEO City Park
August 18, 2008
Volunteers at City Park Surpass 100,000 Hours
What: This Thursday, August 21st, City Park will host 200 volunteers from Carlson Wagonlit Travel that will push our total volunteer count since the storm to 21,000 and our total volunteer hours to 100,000. The volunteer hours represent a full time equivalent of 49 employees working full time for one year. The total dollar value of volunteer hours is $1.9 million.
Where: Inside the Amusement Park within New Orleans City Park. Enter through the front gates on Victory.
When: Thursday, August 21st between 9 am and 12 noon.
Why it’s important: Volunteers have played a tremendous role in the park’s recovery. Early on they invested their sweat equity to help remove tons of debris and paint buildings. More recently, volunteers help augment the park’s still slim staff by assisting with planting, mulching, shoreline cleaning and painting. Many volunteer groups have also adopted sections of the park which they maintain throughout the year.
What they are saying: “Our goal at the park is not to just repair hurricane damage, but to build a better park. Volunteers have been instrumental in helping us attain that goal. We tip our hats, bow low, and say hoorah to each and every volunteer who has assisted the park over the past three years.” – John Hopper, Chief Development Officer
“Given the leading, integral role New Orleans has perennially played in the U.S. travel and tourism sector, we are thrilled that a large cross-section of our Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates from throughout the United States will be coming together as One Driving Force in enthusiastically giving back to this deserving community. We’ve been inspired by the outpouring of interest among our Associates and agents in volunteering to lend a hand in the continuing clean up of New Orleans City Park. Once our 2008 National Meeting has concluded, I’m confident our agents will return to their home communities and tout New Orleans and City Park as open and ready for tourism to their clients.” -- Roger E. Block, President of Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates.
July 25, 2008
- A “Play the Park Lottery” that will allow 224 golfers (56 Foursomes) the chance to be the first to play the revitalized North Course for free.
- A kid’s golf clinic featuring PGA TOUR Legend Billy Casper.
- A “Play Golf New Orleans Day” with free golf instruction and club demo provided to all lottery winners by the PGA of America Professionals.
- Free food and beverages provided by PGA TOUR player Kelly Gibson’s foundation, Feed the Relief, Inc.
North Golf Course to Open at City Park
The North Course at City Park will reopen to the public on Saturday, August 30, 2008 representing a major milestone in the recovery of the Crescent City. More than $1,675,000 has been invested in the revitalization of the North Course. The remodeled course is 5,700 yards and features a new routing throughout the back nine.
“Some milestones in the recovery of the park are larger than others. Reopening the North Course is a big, big day for the park and we are thrilled to open the links to area golfers,” said City Park CEO Bob Becker.
Players will be greeted by reconditioned playing surfaces, including widened fairways and reshaped green-surrounds that will help speed play through the enjoyable new layout. City Park has hired Billy Casper Golf to manage both the North Course and the Driving Range.
“It’s exciting to return golf to the park and local golfers. We’re honored to be involved and hope to honor the spirit and traditions we’ve found in New Orleans as we continue to improve the course and experience,” stated Aaron Cazjka, Billy Casper Golf Midwest Regional Manager.
-more-
To celebrate this historic day, City Park has partnered with Billy Casper Golf, the Bayou District Foundation, and the ForeKids Foundation to provide a number of free activities for the general public to take place that day. The August 30th activities include:
Details of “Play the Park Lottery” are as follows: Starting Friday, August 1st, players will be able to register for the chance to win one of 56 FREE Golf Foursomes for play on Saturday, August 30th. Players may register at the Driving Range and Administration Building at City Park and also online at the new North Course website: cityparkgolf.com. Lottery winners will be notified on Monday, August 25 of their awarded starting time. No purchase is required. Complete details will be available from registration locations.
General reservations for golf will open on Tuesday, August 26 for starting times after 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, and the rest of the weekend. Players will be able to reserve starting times online or through the course’s 24 hour telephone reservation line. Twilight rates will be in effect for Saturday’s play; regular rates will be in effect for the remainder of the weekend.
Billy Casper, who fifty years ago won the Greater New Orleans Invitational at City Park in 1958, is scheduled to attend the festivities and will be holding a clinic for a select group of children enrolled in the First Tee program. He will also sign autographs and amaze fans with some of his great golf stories from his years on tour that span from Walter Hagen to Tiger Woods.
-more-
Golf Rates:
| Weekday (Mon-Fri) Green Fee: | Weekend Green Fee: | ||
| Main: | $20 | Main: | $23 |
| Twilight: | $14 | Twilight: | $17 |
| Senior: | $12 | Senior: | $15 |
| 9-Hole: | $11 | 9-Hole: | $14 |
| Cart Fees: | |||
| $13 (18-hole) | $8 (9-hole) | ||
About Billy Casper Golf
Since 1989, Billy Casper Golf has successfully developed and managed golf courses for public agencies and private owners, growing into the most innovative and progressive golf course management company in the nation.
About the Bayou District Foundation
The Bayou District Foundation is working to create a new mixed-income community, complete with schools and recreational facilities, in the old St. Bernard Housing Community. The redevelopment will provide new workforce housing, new charter schools and the recreational facilities necessary to the new community while simultaneously transforming a portion of City Park of New Orleans.
About the ForeKids Foundation
The Fore!Kids Foundation produces the local annual stop on the PGA TOUR, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. Since its inception, the Foundation has helped to raise more than $17 million for area charities. Additionally, the Fore!Kids Foundation, through the PGA TOUR event, provides an estimated $25 million in annual economic impact to the city and state. The tournament is televised to an international audience, allowing millions of people to see some of the area’s greatest attractions.
June 24, 2008
Keep America Beautiful Grant
New Orleans City Park received a grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful on June 18, of 2008 in the amount of $ 18,895. The scope of work for this grant includes restoration of City Park’s Couturie Forest and Arboretum by replacing signage and kiosks destroyed in Hurricane Katrina. City Park will be incorporating anti-litter education materials for use by visitors to the Forest in a brochure and children’s activity book. City Park will also host one Litter Clean Up day each quarter throughout the year.
The Couturie Forest and Arboretum Trail within City Park occupies 33-acres of land. The forest was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina’s winds and floodwaters. The forest is a natural refuge where many urbanites go to commune with nature, fish, bird watch or catch their breath in an area otherwise not known to many. Couturie Forest was begun as a community arboretum in the 1939. In 2004, sixty signs identifying foliage, two educational kiosks, and fourteen interpretive signs were added to the forest. After Hurricane Katrina, all of the signs and kiosks were destroyed or simply vanished. The Park has worked aggressively to seek funding to replace the trees and recreate the trail system that was wiped away after the storm.
We at City Park are especially excited about this opportunity to partner with Keep Louisiana Beautiful and hope the partnership can build upon the efforts we reinforce to our many visitors in regards to litter control.
July 25, 2008
- A “Play the Park Lottery” that will allow 224 golfers (56 Foursomes) the chance to be the first to play the revitalized North Course for free.
- A kid’s golf clinic featuring PGA TOUR Legend Billy Casper.
- A “Play Golf New Orleans Day” with free golf instruction and club demo provided to all lottery winners by the PGA of America Professionals.
- Free food and beverages provided by PGA TOUR player Kelly Gibson’s foundation, Feed the Relief, Inc.
North Golf Course to Open at City Park
The North Course at City Park will reopen to the public on Saturday, August 30, 2008 representing a major milestone in the recovery of the Crescent City. More than $1,675,000 has been invested in the revitalization of the North Course. The remodeled course is 5,700 yards and features a new routing throughout the back nine.
“Some milestones in the recovery of the park are larger than others. Reopening the North Course is a big, big day for the park and we are thrilled to open the links to area golfers,” said City Park CEO Bob Becker.
Players will be greeted by reconditioned playing surfaces, including widened fairways and reshaped green-surrounds that will help speed play through the enjoyable new layout. City Park has hired Billy Casper Golf to manage both the North Course and the Driving Range.
“It’s exciting to return golf to the park and local golfers. We’re honored to be involved and hope to honor the spirit and traditions we’ve found in New Orleans as we continue to improve the course and experience,” stated Aaron Cazjka, Billy Casper Golf Midwest Regional Manager.
-more-
To celebrate this historic day, City Park has partnered with Billy Casper Golf, the Bayou District Foundation, and the ForeKids Foundation to provide a number of free activities for the general public to take place that day. The August 30th activities include:
Details of “Play the Park Lottery” are as follows: Starting Friday, August 1st, players will be able to register for the chance to win one of 56 FREE Golf Foursomes for play on Saturday, August 30th. Players may register at the Driving Range and Administration Building at City Park and also online at the new North Course website: cityparkgolf.com. Lottery winners will be notified on Monday, August 25 of their awarded starting time. No purchase is required. Complete details will be available from registration locations.
General reservations for golf will open on Tuesday, August 26 for starting times after 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, and the rest of the weekend. Players will be able to reserve starting times online or through the course’s 24 hour telephone reservation line. Twilight rates will be in effect for Saturday’s play; regular rates will be in effect for the remainder of the weekend.
Billy Casper, who fifty years ago won the Greater New Orleans Invitational at City Park in 1958, is scheduled to attend the festivities and will be holding a clinic for a select group of children enrolled in the First Tee program. He will also sign autographs and amaze fans with some of his great golf stories from his years on tour that span from Walter Hagen to Tiger Woods.
-more-
Golf Rates:
| Weekday (Mon-Fri) Green Fee: | Weekend Green Fee: | ||
| Main: | $20 | Main: | $23 |
| Twilight: | $14 | Twilight: | $17 |
| Senior: | $12 | Senior: | $15 |
| 9-Hole: | $11 | 9-Hole: | $14 |
| Cart Fees: | |||
| $13 (18-hole) | $8 (9-hole) | ||
About Billy Casper Golf
Since 1989, Billy Casper Golf has successfully developed and managed golf courses for public agencies and private owners, growing into the most innovative and progressive golf course management company in the nation.
About the Bayou District Foundation
The Bayou District Foundation is working to create a new mixed-income community, complete with schools and recreational facilities, in the old St. Bernard Housing Community. The redevelopment will provide new workforce housing, new charter schools and the recreational facilities necessary to the new community while simultaneously transforming a portion of City Park of New Orleans.
About the ForeKids Foundation
The Fore!Kids Foundation produces the local annual stop on the PGA TOUR, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. Since its inception, the Foundation has helped to raise more than $17 million for area charities. Additionally, the Fore!Kids Foundation, through the PGA TOUR event, provides an estimated $25 million in annual economic impact to the city and state. The tournament is televised to an international audience, allowing millions of people to see some of the area’s greatest attractions.
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
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