Buffalo Rising Online

Jul 29th 2007, 9:31am By queenseyes

Yesterday was a big day for Johnson Park. Community activists finally realized their dreams of the city’s first park when a historic placard along with renderings (inset) were unveiled by Assemblyman Hoyt, Judge Nowak and Councilman Davis. The day was very symbolic for the many people who have been huge proponents in reclaiming the once downtrodden park. Brian Davis officially dedicated the day to Johnson Park and told Marilyn Rodgers that she could add the acclaimed distinction to the rest of the honors that the West Village Renaissance Group (WVRG) has racked up in recent years. The Mayor arrived and examined a rendering depicting the 5-year plan to take Johnson Park to the next level.

I was asked to say a word at the dedication, which I gladly accepted, mainly because the effort of the WVRG was one of the reasons that I started Buffalo Rising. I wanted to pay homage to people like Marilyn, and Mary Simpson (President of the Days Park Association).

When I first met Marilyn, we sat on her front porch and I listened to her describe the horror stories that had befallen the park. She told me about her neighbors (both good and bad), and the newfound determination that was energizing these oversized pocket parks. As a matter of fact, Marilyn wrote about her struggles and her successes in the first issue of, what was then known as, ‘Explore the Elmwood/Allentown District Magazine’. A photo of Days Park graced the front cover of the issue, while Marilyn’s story about the history of Johnson Park began to circulate throughout the local coffee shops. I’ve tried to keep close tabs on Johnson Park ever since those early BR days. We’ve witnessed some heated battles and some wonderful victories. We’ve seen property owners like Mike Hananel come in and add to the stability of the park. And now we’re going to see the next phase… the next stage in the life of this stubborn-as-hell community. A fund has been set up to handle the cost of the newly unveiled park features. And wouldn’t you know it… Rocco Termini arrived yesterday and handed the group a check in the amount of $500 to kick things off. The funds will ultimately go towards paying for a jogging path, bike racks, a conservatory, a meditation labyrinth, and numerous other additions. Brian Davis hinted that he would try to speed up the five-year plan, and The Mayor praised the assembled group for their efforts and their dedication to the city.

It is days like yesterday that I will remember many years from now. Urban activism is alive and well in the city of Buffalo because of catalyst groups like the WVRG.

Photos: RoBear