And why shouldn't there be smiles and celebrations?
It was all smiles through some chattering teeth at last Saturday's official opening of the Osoyoos Skateboard Park.
And why shouldn't there be a lot of smiles. Even a cold day in December shouldn't be able to wipe out the positive aspect of just how important an achievement this is for Osoyoos.
This new skateboard park has been years in the making, and it hasn't been a process void of controversy.
But that should be ancient history. Recent history should reflect a spirit of community and compromise that has made this park a reality.
First, congratulations should go to town council, staff and to the recreation commission. The financial support and moral support were key factors in getting the park built. It seems that once the location was chosen, and agreed upon, things just started falling into place.
Secondly, Jamie Elder, of Unity, deserves so much of the credit, not only for the building of the park, but for the type of park it is. By holding to a vision of the quality and style of park that should be built, even under immense pressure, Elder ensured the Osoyoos Skateboard Park will be something the entire community can be proud of for years to come.
Finally, to the skateboarders themselves. This young group of individuals demonstrated the tenacity, hardwork, dedication, class and commitment that should make their parents and their community proud.
They stepped up to the plate and delivered when it would have been easier not to. They showed a maturity that seems rare in today's society, and we are not just talking about youth. The kids deserve this park, they proved that over and over again.
As of last Saturday, Osoyoos became a better place, because in the face of controversy and struggle, the best interests of the community and its citizens were put above everything else.
