Newark skate park discussed
By John Zornow

A few skateboarders and supporters met at the Alex Eligh Community Center last Thursday to discuss findraising plans for a skate park facility.

Organizers Valerie VanDongen, AECC director Mike Muscolino,George Naschke, Arcadia Supervisor Dom Bartucca, and Karin Benjamin were present, along with about 15 other community members. It was agreed that the Alex Eligh Community Center would be the receiver of funds raised, due to its exempt status.

Various fundraising ideas were discussed, including a raffle, sale of T-shirts and a car wash. Bartucca suggested the selling of bricks for $100 to supporters; the bricks would be engraved with the donors' names. The bricks would later become part of the facility. Bartucca is ready to go with the idea and has had positive response to the plan.

'If everyone is willing to spend an hour a week on this project, the park could be a reality in about a year,' said Bartucca.

VanDongen, one the organizers, was concerned by the low turnout, and indicated that more than 20 adults signed up to help at the village shareholders meeting. She asked all present to bring others to the next meeting, and reminded the group that co-chairs and a secretary-treasurer needs to be chosen.

Naschke read a sample of a letter to be sent to local businesses asking for support. The letter reminds citizens that one of the benefits of the project is a cost-free site. Naschke and Benjamin will develop flyers and contact local businesses, after a logo is designed.

The next meeting is scheduled for August 3, at 7 p.m. at the Alex Eligh Community Center on East Ave.

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