Act I
Early morning. The creatures of Riverside gather for their daily “Park Report.” Raccoon forages (politely) near a new, tightly closed, solar-powered trash bin. Butterfly flits above a meadow of native wildflowers. Bluejay perches on the edge of a bench. Squirrel gnaws happily on an acorn.
Raccoon: You know, they say parks are all about plants… but plants aren’t very good at conversation, so I’ve been listening to the people around here. And let me tell you, they’ve been saying some amazing things about Riverside Park this year.
Butterfly: Oh yes! I was drinking some nectar in the new meadow the other day, I heard a couple say, “Riverside Park is an amazing home.” I fluttered my wings with local pride—I hope they noticed.
Bluejay: Same here. While I was loudly serenading some folks from a branch near 103rd Street, I overheard someone say, “Our family loves Riverside Park and we’re thankful for those who run and maintain it.” I chirped a little “you’re welcome,” even though I’m not technically on staff.
Squirrel: You should’ve heard the gushing I caught near the 73rd Street lawn! A lady kvelled, “Riverside Park is stunningly beautiful! It’s diverse, relaxing, and always pleasing to the eye. The variety of planting is interesting and exciting all year round.” I mean—wow, it was just so true, I got all verklempt.
Act II
Later that afternoon. The creatures bask in the sunlight filtering through Riverside’s majestic trees and continue sharing all the great feedback they’ve overheard this year.
Raccoon: I was hanging out by the Greenway when a jogger ran by and exclaimed, “There’s definitely nothing but improvements in the park. The effort is apparent and appreciated.” I gave him a respectful nod, but he was really focused on his workout.
Bluejay: And the horticulture! I have a bird’s eye view of it all. I keep hearing folks say, “The landscaping is beautiful. The flowers, shrubs and trees have really improved, and the park looks beautiful.”
Squirrel: I’ve heard a lot of compliments too. Just the other day someone said, “I keep noticing how the trees and plants look so healthy.” Same here, bubbelah, same here! Of course, I live in them.
Butterfly: Don’t forget all the free events for the community! I overheard a group of parents saying, “We love the uptown programs – keep them coming!” I flew around the 143rd Street lawn in a big loop to celebrate.
Raccoon: All these happy humans… hearing their words is a nice way to close out the year, don’t you think?
Bluejay: It sure is! But it’s also a reminder that there’s more work to do. Winter is here, and caring for a park this big takes a real team effort.
Squirrel: Oy! You’re right – this is the perfect moment to pitch in.
Act III
The sun is setting as the creatures prepare for nightfall. Riverside Park is blanketed in a soft, pink glow as Raccoon, Bluejay, Butterfly and Squirrel share a few closing thoughts.
Raccoon: Oh! Before I forget, there’s big news from the world of sports in the park – the humans LOVE the recent upgrades. “The new pickleball courts are amazing,” they said. If I had opposable thumbs, I’m sure I’d agree.
Bluejay: From the treetops in the Bird Sanctuary, I overheard someone appreciating the walkways: “Recent improvements to the paths and stairs near 120th and 97th Streets—it’s so much better now.” That was music to my ears!
Squirrel: And get this – people love the new greener machines! “It’s good to see RPC investing in cleaner vehicles,” they said. Electric vehicles make for quieter mornings, which make for better acorn hunting. It’s a win-win-win!
Raccoon: So, there you have it. We’re listening to the people, and the people love this park.
Bluejay: And we do too.
Squirrel: Here’s to many more improvements – and a lot more positive feedback!
Butterfly: And to all the humans who care for this park and support it each day – thank you from the whole Riverside Park critter crew.
Raccoon: As the final sunset of the year approaches, we’ve got one last message:
Your New Year’s Eve donation cares for our home.
Your gift today will help make 2026 a beautiful year for all the living things in our park.
