Lions unveil unique Skate Park bench

The City of Shafter hosted a bench dedication ceremony at the Skate Park on Friday. The Lions Club led the effort to raise the money and provide the bench for the community to use and enjoy at the skate park. Created in the shape of a skateboard, the bench adds an artistic touch to the park's modern design and features a plaque naming all 15 sponsors who contributed to funding the skateboard bench.

The sponsors include SoCalGas, Glam Salon & Spa, Shafter Transmission & Smog, Candyland Party Supply, N&L Farm Labor Services Inc., Shafter Car Wash, PG&E, Shafter Recreation and Parks District, BBK Attorneys at Law, Shafter AG Solutions, Strata Credit Union, Shafter Big Stop Market, California Resources Corporation, Wonderful Orchards and Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains.

"It was great to see all the businesses coming together to bring this project to fruition. The large turnout today shows strong community support for a park that provides a safe and enjoyable outlet for everyone," Lions Club President and Councilmember Gilbert Alvarado said after the event.

Mayor Chad Givens stated, "I'm excited when community clubs come together like the Lions have done to continue supporting healthy activities and outdoor recreation. This was something they came up with, and I'm excited to see it continue forward. We know others are doing the same, and that's what makes Shafter unique and special."

Assemblymember Bains echoed Mayor Givens' sentiment, saying, "I love that you are always doing things that other cities aren't doing, by making sure the city is engaged," and added that with the skate park, "whatever we can do to get kids to continue to be kids is important."

The city did a good job with this park, City Manager Lance Lippincott remarked. "These are hugely impactful for kids. It's hard to capture the benefit, but it really ties the community together. Today's bench ceremony symbolizes how much the community cares and how involved the service organizations are here."

Marisol Delgado, who lives across the street from the skate park and uses it often, shared, "My kids and I love it. I'm 35 years old, and I ride on my scooter. My family and I are so happy with the park and are grateful to have it."

Sixth-grader Dominique Espinoza said it's great for practicing on the ramps, noting that they are small enough for beginners. "It's awesome to hang out with friends at the park. I like how the new bench looks. It's really cool and somewhere nice to sit," he said.

Phillip Jimenez, Shafter Recreation and Parks District manager, believes the park has been needed in the community for a long time. "It's really great to have a skate park for the kids to have fun and to know that this is one of the best skate parks in the county."