Skating has been a lifelong passion of mine, as I have been an avid roller skater for 55 years and a roller skating instructor for 51 years. My journey in skating has also taken me into the world of inline skating, where I have been teaching at Level 2 for the past 20 years. Over the decades, I have dedicated my life to promoting this wonderful activity, sharing my passion, expertise, and a unique teaching method I've developed called "Skate Therapy," designed to help people learn or improve their skating skills.

Living in Seattle, I've witnessed firsthand the vibrant skating community we have here, but one thing has been consistently missing: an outdoor covered pavilion that allows us to skate year-round regardless of weather conditions. An outdoor covered pavilion at Judkins Park would not only provide a safe and accessible space for skaters of all ages and skill levels, but it would also foster a sense of community, bring people together, and encourage more locals to embrace the joy of skating.

Judkins Park is an ideal location for such a project. It's a central location with ample space and is already a beloved recreational area serving the wider community. By adding a covered pavilion specifically for roller and inline skating, we can enhance the park's offerings and make it an even more inclusive and engaging space for everyone.

The benefits extend well beyond just the skating community. Skating promotes physical health, mental well-being, and social interaction. In a time where active lifestyles are more crucial than ever, having a space like this would significantly contribute to the city's efforts to improve public health and community cohesion. It would provide shelter from Seattle's unpredictable weather, insurance against cancellations of skating events and classes, and more opportunities for families, children, and individuals to partake in this fun activity.

I urge the Seattle Parks Department to consider this proposal seriously and take actionable steps towards building an outdoor covered pavilion dedicated to skating in Judkins Park. Adding this facility would be a progressive move aligning with the city's commitment to provide diverse recreational opportunities to its residents. It would also stand as a testament to Seattle's vibrant and inclusive community spirit.

Join me in making this vision a reality by signing this petition today. Together, we can create a lasting legacy for the skaters of Seattle and an exciting new chapter in the history of our beloved Judkins Park. Sign the petition now, and let's skate into the future, rain or shine!