"Oakland Park's unsung hero is now being sung about in his hometown! On November 7, 2007 at Oakland Park City Hall, person after person spoke before the City Commission in support of naming the City's new downtown park for Jaco Pastorius, The World's Greatest Bass Player. Residents of Oakland Park and greater South Florida; Jaco's childhood and longtime friends; musicians; music teachers; producers; the Oakland Park Historical Society; Main Street; fans, fans, fans; and members of Jaco's family eagerly shared with city leaders Jaco's impact on them and the world - and his unique connection to Oakland Park.
The City Commission listened to everyone and several commissioners expressed their unequivocal support for the naming. They have plans far beyond simply naming the park for Jaco; there are proposals of educational initiatives to inform a new generation of Oakland Parkers about the music legend who grew up in their city and went on to change the world.
Everyone is invited to attend the Commission Meeting at Oakland Park City Hall (3650 NE 12th Ave) on November 28, 2007 (at 6:30 pm) for the historic vote to honor The World's Greatest in his hometown (just in time for his birthday)!
Jaco's story is coming full circle in Oakland Park - the place where it began, the place where it continues..."
