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For the third year, Cook County Forest Preserve District Commissioner Larry Suffredin,13th District, will join Chicago River and Forest Preserve enthusiasts for the 19th Annual New Year's Day Paddle. The event starts below the Skokie Lagoons where canoes and kayaks begin their trip, traveling through the Cook County Forest Preserves to Linne Woods.

At the November 4th Forest Preserve District Board meeting, the Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance introduced by Commissioner Suffredin that formally designated the Forest Preserve District as the sponsor of this annual event. In its new role as sponsor, the District is working with community members to organize the event and promote it as a recreational opportunity in the Forest Preserve.

"I am thrilled this event has taken on a more formal status and will be an annual event promoted by the District. It is an important opportunity for local Chicago River and Forest Preserve enthusiasts, and the Forest Preserve District, to promote the recreational potential of the Skokie Lagoons and the Chicago River and to highlight the need for regular maintenance and care of the Lagoons and River," commented Commissioner Suffredin.


Event: 19th Annual New Year's Day Paddle

Date: January 1, 2005

Time: 9 A.M. Commissioner Suffredin to arrive at launch site

Note: Participants stagger their launch times; some arrive as early as 7:00 A.M. The last launch is at Noon.

Canoe Launch
Location: Forestway Drive just north of Willow Rd. Put-in is just below the Willow Road Dam. End point for the trip is at the horse bridge in Linne Woods south of Beckwith Road.

Directions: Travel north on the Edens and exit at Willow Road. Turn right (east) onto Willow Road. Travel approximately ½ mile and cross over the bridge. After crossing bridge, immediately turn left onto Forestway Drive. Look for the people and cars in the parking lot.

Participants: Commissioner Larry Suffredin
Forest Preserve District of Cook County
Chicago River and Forest Preserve Enthusiasts

Event Contact: Bill Koenig, Forest Preserve District
773-631-1853

Press Contact: Commissioner Larry Suffredin
Cell phone: 847-767-9168

This event will provide numerous photo opportunities.