- Informed our neighborhood about local events, communicating via Facebook, our email list and Twitter.
- Organized our annual Barrie Fest, which took place in September. Live bands played throughout the afternoon as approximately 400 neighbors enjoyed visiting our business fair and jumping in the bounce houses, This year we also added a climbing wall, which was quite popular. Local artists and bands provided live entertainment. The Oak Park Fire Department stopped by, as well as the Oak Park Library’s Book Bike. Our new food vendor, Carnivore, was busy throughout the day selling delicious sandwiches. It was a wonderful afternoon to visit with friends and meet neighbors!
- Held a public forum on the District 200 Referendum in October with speakers representing the District 200 Board, as well as the Yes and No positions. This was followed by a moderated question & answer session from the audience. We broadcast this forum live via Facebook video.
- Worked with our new Neighborhood Resource Officer, Derrick Verge as he hosted monthly meetings at Barrie Center. Each month Officer Verge and other members of the police force gathered to discuss how to increase safety in South East Oak Park.
- Partnered with Culvers for an October fund raiser to help raise funds for the Holiday Food and Gift Basket program at Irving School.
- Collaborated with the Oak Park Park District and the Irving PTO to plan annual Movie Night in conjunction with Irving’s Back-to-School party. A great time was had gathering to visit and eat pizza, but the threat of rain forced the cancellation of the movie. We’ll try again next year.
- Monitored developments on the Eisenhower Transportation Corridor. There was no significant movement this year, but SEOPCO continues to stay in touch with this important transportation issue, with the help of Citizens for Appropriate Transporation.
- Held a successful membership campaign with about 50 neighbors making contributions.