… that the city’s rules related to outdoor sledding and ice skating are confusing, to say the least. In a four-paragraph statement on sledding at James Park, the city seems to say, “we’d rather you didn’t, but we know you will, so these are the rules. And if anything happens, it’s not our fault.”
“Pursuant to the City of Evanston Municipal Code (Section 7-10-4), tobogganing, skiing and snowboarding are prohibited at James Park. Please note that sledding is also prohibited on the James Park large center hill. All activities at James Park are at the user’s own risk.”
… that sliding down the snow-covered hill known as Mount Trashmore is only allowed on the smaller northern and southern slopes, and only on sleds – not toboggans, skis, or snowboards.
… that traditionally, sleds have runners and toboggans ride directly on the snow and …
… that on a recent trip to James Park, warning signs notwithstanding, all three hills were in use by persons laughing and sliding downhill on brightly colored plastic devices of various shapes and sizes, none with runners or skis, but riding directly on the snow.
… that the ice is open at Ackerman Park but the would-be warming house is not. The lights in the building are on, but the doors are locked.
… that the rink may be closed at Baker Park, but the skaters don’t care.
… that if readers have skates they’re not using, take them to Arrington Lagoon or Baker Park to make them available for other skaters. For those using the donated skates, remember when finished to return them to the bin for other skaters to use as needed.
The Lighthouse Keeper hears …
… that after an hour or two of fun on the snow or ice, warm up at one of the 30-plus Evanston eateries participating in North Shore Restaurant Month, Feb. 1 through Feb. 28. Deals include free desserts or appetizers, 15% off the check, or a special family meal deal.
… that speaking of skating (after the ice melts), the city wants citizen input on the features and design of the skate park planned for the east end of Twiggs Park. Readers can share thoughts via an online survey by Feb. 15 and review initial concept designs at a virtual public meeting starting 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22.
… that the skate park is just one of seven capital improvement projects planned for Evanston in 2022.
Stay warm and keep in touch. Send your comments, questions and news tips to the LK@evanstonroundtable.com.