Dear Mayor Croft and City Council Members: It has become apparent that there is NO WHERE in Lakewood for kids to skateboard. It is presently illegal to skate in our park and on the street, or for skaters to use any public or private sidewalk or handrail as a skate obstacle. Our children are being treated like criminals and ticketed for engaging in an activity that not only provides psychological benefits like increased levels of self-esteem and confidence, but which also provides a fun physical activity. Skateboarding has become the sport of choice for over 13 million Americans. In fact, the amount of skateboarders has surpassed the amount of Little League baseball players. Since Lakewood is able to provide more than adequate facilities for baseball, football, tennis, golf, swimming and soccer, why have we not addressed facilities for this growing population of skaters I am sending this to you because this is something our community needs! Thank You