Archived News Release from 2003

For Immediate Release

Redwood City, CA - March 4, 2003 - After years of planning and design, including scale model clay design and input and ideas from the kids that will actually use it, Redwood City's Phil Shao Memorial Skate Park is, at long last, ready for action. The grand opening of this state-of-the-art, custom-designed skate park is scheduled for Saturday, March 15 beginning at 10:00 am at Red Morton Park.

A special ribbon cutting ceremony will kick off the proceedings, followed by skate demonstrations by "Think Team, music, food, entertainment, and fun for the entire family, skaters and non-skaters alike. The public is invited to join in the festivities as Redwood City inaugurates this much-anticipated facility to provide local skaters with a place to call their own. Skaters are required to wear helmets, and are asked to bring knee and wrist guards.

The skate park is named in honor of Redwood City native Phil Shao who, before his untimely death in 1998, was to be the next editor of Thrasher Magazine. Mr. Shao was a pioneer in the very popular X-Games, and a tireless advocate of skateboarding and skaters. This skate park is dedicated to his memory, and as a reminder of his commitment to the skating community.

The Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department provides recreational facilities and activities for all ages and interests, and supplies building and custodial services for City buildings. Redwood City Parks also operates the Fair Oaks Community Center, providing social, educational, and cultural activities, as well as information, referral, and counseling services to persons living in Redwood City and neighboring communities. Redwood City Parks is more than you think! Its website is located at www.redwoodcity.org/parks/.

Visit Redwood City's website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, City government, and local business. Redwood City news releases are also available online, at www.redwoodcity.org/news.

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Contact: Adilah Haqq
Recreation Manager
650-780-7315