CLEARLAKE ? A celebration and remembrance will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Andy Johnson Memorial BMX/Skatepark in Clearlake.
The event will provide an opportunity for togetherness in remembering the young man who many say was instrumental in uniting skateboarders and BMXers at the park.
The event will also honor the memory of Heather Valdez, who was allegedly killed last year by a classmate as she walked home from the bus stop after school.
Prior to a traffic collision that ended young Andy”s life three years ago, he had been an avid skateboarder and BMX bike rider. His passion for both sports is believed to have helped bridge that gap between the two groups at the local skatepark. After his death, local citizens worked diligently to get the skatepark renamed in his honor.
The effort was successful and the skatepark was dedicated in Andy Johnson”s memory in April 2008. “We are fortunate and thankful for the city and city council who were gracious enough to rename the park in Andy”s memory,” Ken Savin, Community BMX/Skate Park Committee member said during last year”s dedication event.
Saturday”s event will include a barbecue, live music and skateboard and BMX activities. “We are planning to have a family-friendly day with a barbecue for all of Andy”s friends and family and anyone else who wants to come out,” Savin said. “It will be free but we will be taking donations to cover expenses. We also will have T-shirts available for a small donation.”
Any proceeds garnered through the event will be directed toward the skatepark fund to help maintain, enhance and expand the facility.
Helmet and protective gear requirements will be strictly enforced during Saturday”s event. Bike riders are required to wear a helmet and skateboarders must wear a helmet as well as elbow and knee pads.
Local youth bands who are tentatively scheduled to perform include “From the Ashes,” “Purge at Dawn,” “Incomplete” and “Rough World.” Performances are expected to be language appropriate with regard for the children in attendance.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
