Those familiar with the "Committee for Washington Park" will have to adjust your sights a bit. Focused on the park itself, this committee has taken on a more descriptive name: "Friends and Neighbors (FANs) of Washington Park".

Started in January 2006 by Cindy Johnstone, the group is currently composed of residents from East and West Washington Park but is open to anyone who wishes to be a supporter of Washington Park. City Parks employees Britta Herwig and Mike McCown have attended the meetings and receive updates. The group’s purpose is to be stewards of Washington Park and support the park on various levels.

* to support the Park employees in keeping our park beautiful
* to educate the committee members and park users of the history of Washington Park
* to identify projects the committee can be involved in
* to work with the Department of Parks and Recreation in maintaining, restoring and preserving the park for the enjoyment of its users
* to be involved in developing a master plan for Washington Park

Some of the work they have done may be seen in the flowers and boathouse projects in May 2006. Future projects include "Putting the Beds to Bed" (Washington Park on Saturday, October 21 at 8:00 a.m.) and the "Rock and Water Garden" historic preservation.

Meetings are monthly on the second Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at the Bathhouse (VOC). Location may change pending availability of the VOC building. The next meeting is Wednesday, August 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Bathhouse (VOC).

For more information please contact Cindy Johnstone, chair, at 303-733-6570.