ROSCOE VILLAGE — Whether its new boathouse is ready or not, there will be canoes launching from Clark Park in September.
The park's advisory council has set Sept. 15 as the date for its Twilight Canoe fundraiser, a popular annual event making its return after a construction-imposed hiatus in 2012.
Though the official opening of the $7.4 million boathouse is a moving target — ComEd has yet to install necessary electricity — the advisory council has already lined up a canoe vendor and is working on setting up online registration and payment for the event.
Cost is $50 per adult and $25 for children aged 12 and under, with all proceeds used for park improvements. The fee covers the cost of the canoe rental plus a catered candlelight dinner. In the past, the food has been provided by Noon-O-Kabob in Albany Park, with plenty of options to satisfy all tastes, including vegetarians, according to Rose Wehner, advisory council member.
For those unfamiliar with Clark Park, 3400 N. Rockwell St., the canoeing event provides a unique recreation experience along the Chicago River.
The 5:30 p.m. start time ensures there's plenty of light for boaters to view the diverse wildlife, including heron, found on the river, said Wehner.
No prior paddling experience is required, added Bill Donahue, president of the advisory council. Most participants easily work their way north on the water to Wilson Avenue, he said, and more aggressive paddlers can head as far up the channel as Foster Avenue.
Additional details regarding registration will be forthcoming, said Donahue. In the meantime, those interested in more information about the event can email him at donah150@gmail.com.
