Nov. 15 is new opening date for Cook County forest preserves permits

Applications for Cook County Forest Preserves picnic and special events permits will open Nov. 15 — more than six weeks ahead of the traditional Jan. 1 open day for permits. “For years we have opened up reservations for the next year in person and online on the first working day after New Year’s — usually Jan. 2. Every year people line up outside, sometimes when the temperature is below zero, to get their favorite groves for their preferred date,” said Arnold Randall, general superintendent for the forest preserves.  “An earlier opening day helps alleviate some of these issues . . .