Residents announce Rally in the Park and a local blacksmith offers workshops; council highlights community events

Several members of the public used the citizens‑communication portion of the Lincoln Park City Council meeting to promote upcoming community events and proposals.

Kenneth Auslander, who identified himself as a Lincoln Park resident and practicing blacksmith, asked the council to consider designating a town blacksmith in a symbolic role. Auslander said he could provide live demonstrations, educational workshops, youth mentoring and partnering with the Lincoln Park Historical Museum. He characterized the request as symbolic and said it would not impose an obligation on the city.

Kim Martin and Theresa Lupinski, co‑coordinators of “Rally in the Park,” described a food‑truck rally planned for Saturday (the transcript referenced a coming Saturday) at Community Park from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. They said the event will include 20 food trucks, a live band called Flipside (playing approximately 4–7 p.m.), a beer tent sponsored by the Marine Corps Downriver Detachment League, children’s activities and a caricature artist. Organizers said proceeds will support park maintenance and they hope to make the rally an annual event.

Council members and staff noted other upcoming community items: a senior‑movie‑day organized by Pastor Peter Moore of City of Hope Church, citywide garage sales, a parks & recreation scoreboard fundraising need, and an animal shelter fall mum fundraiser. Several council members urged residents to drive safely and to watch for children now that school is in session.

These citizen communications were informational; the council took no formal action on the speeches at the meeting.