Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Special to suffredin.org

Cook County, Illinois.  On January 1, 2006, Chicago River enthusiasts will again launch their canoes and kayaks in celebration of the New Year and the natural beauty of the river and forest preserves.  The event starts below the Skokie Lagoons where canoes and kayaks begin their trip, traveling through the Cook County Forest Preserves to Linne Woods. 

The event is sponsored by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County.  Participants must provide their own canoes or kayaks and it is recommended that they have some prior experience.  For more information call, Bill Koenig at 773-631-1790. 

“This is an important opportunity for the Forest Preserve District and those who enjoy canoeing and kayaking 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 Larry Suffredin, 13th District.

Event:  Annual New Year’s Day Paddle
 
Date:  January 1, 2006

Time:  9 A.M.  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.

Event  Bill Koenig, Forest Preserve District
Contact: 773-631-1790 

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

** This event will provide numerous photo opportunities. **