Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks
Press Release

Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks invite neighbors to celebrate one-year anniversary

Community invited to “Rooted in Year One” gathering on Monday, Nov. 16, at the Jackson Park Boat House

By - Nov 9th, 2026 09:28 am

MILWAUKEE, Wis. – Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks is turning one, and the Jackson Park community is invited to celebrate with conversation and cake. Held Monday, Nov. 16, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Jackson Park Boat House, the group’s board and members meeting will highlight successes and discuss the future.

“Neighbors, park users and lovers, and anyone curious about the group are welcome to join us,” said J. Haselhoef, Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks coordinator and co-founder.

In its first year, Friends has grown from an idea into an active community group. Highlights include:

  • Planning for Manitoba Park: working with neighbors to shape a vision for the 3.5 acre neighborhood park’s future.
  • The monthly family Book Hike: a regular walk through Jackson Park that brings readers and nature lovers together over children’s books.
  • Buckthorn removal: conservation work to clear this invasive shrub and give native plants room to thrive. The next workday is Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m.to 11 a.m. Volunteers and those needing service hours are welcome.

Looking ahead, Friends will begin two major projects in 2027: refurbishing Jackson Park’s historic picnic shelter and planning with the community an activities center in the park’s Stone building.

“Our first year showed us how much people care about these parks,” said Haselhoef, “We want everyone to share some cake, see what we’ve planted this year, and help shape what we grow next.”

Event details:
What: Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks first anniversary celebration
When: Monday, Nov. 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Jackson Park Boat House
Cost: Free
Media contact: Mike Goodman, 262-323-3451

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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