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Memories of skate park

Yes, the kids have lots of good memories of the UTF, and so do we. As parents, we’d take our son and friends there, stopping at the Spirit Skate Shop first. As we hung out there more, we got to know the owner, Steve Sanchez.

He had a heart for these kids, having cleanup days sweeping and painting the UTF park. He got up-and-coming skaters to come to the park for events and gave away shirts and boards from his shop. He would have kids lace new shoes to get a little money. He set up a repair bench at the shop so kids could put new grip paper on and change out wheels. Steve would stay open on holidays when some kids didn’t have a place to go.

I’m glad Spokane is putting more skate parks all over town and in neighborhoods. Parents and shop owners need to stay involved, too. Kids can’t do it themselves, but they’ll help when asked.

Barb Gaver

Spokane Valley

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