The cold weather and rains that had been lingering  most of February cleared just in time for this year’s Its My Park Day, the annual Shipe Park clean up and compost-spreading event on March 1.  Over 80 people formed small teams together to tackle those tasks that keep the park vibrant and resilient, especially during the summer months.  Friends of Shipe Park were thrilled to see many new people participate this year.  The steady recruitment and inclusion of new people is the most important way FOSP can continue our role as stewards of the park, adding park improvement projects while continuing the annual maintenance, and also to be able offer special events like the Pool Opening Party and Fall Movie Night.

As we wrapped up the chores at the Park, our favorite brass band Blowcomotion, provided the soundtrack of fun and festive music.  One of our sponsors, Fairweather Cider, passed out cold samples of their product, which was a real crowd pleaser for the dedicated group of people who hung in there till the last shovel of mulch was spread beneath the trees.  The sun was out, but a cool breeze felt good.

Jack and I were reviewing the event together and what struck us this year especially was how Shipe Park has become the “Plaza Mayor” of our neighborhood.  It’s recognized as the place to come gather, to hold celebrations big and small (every weekend there is a leftover pinata hanging from the cabin rafters after a birthday party.) It’s also the place to play, to learn how to hang from the monkey bars, to swing and play basketball.  Add to that the quieter activities like having a conversation with a friend, practicing yoga, or throwing a ball to a dog: all these combine to make Shipe Park a special place. And with your continuing help,  we can keep it that way.

Interested in learning more about Friends of Shipe Park? Go to www.shipepark.org or our Facebook Page.   Leave a message and we will be in touch!