Politics & Government

A Walk in the Park

The Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation Commission has new plans for its Marine Avenue Park renovations.

A proposal to rename Marine Avenue Park and erect a commemorative wall there has evolved into plans to build an "inspirational walk" at the park's entryway.

At its Monday meeting, the Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation Commission agreed to send the City Council a new memo outlining its latest proposition. The purpose of the inspirational walk is to honor those who have contributed to youth sports in Manhattan Beach.

"We want to celebrate life in this place," Commissioner Ned Gill said. "This park is not a memorial; this park is about life."

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The impetus for the proposed inspirational walk comes on the heels of tragic loss.  In the early hours of April 10, 2009, two Manhattan Beach natives were involved in a fatal car accident when a hit-and-run drunk driver ran a red light and broadsided the car they were riding in. Jon Wilhite, 24, was severely injured and Henry Pearson, 25, was killed. Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, 22, and Courtney Stewart, 20, of Diamond Bar were also killed in the crash. 

Both Wilhite and Pearson, along with their families, were active in Manhattan Beach Little League as players, coaches, managers and volunteers. 

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"What really struck me and other people that were involved with the League is that out of this terrible tragedy, the families really used it as an opportunity to try to spread the word about the dangers of drunk driving," said Thomas Tyrer, former Manhattan Beach Little League President. 

Now representing Manhattan Beach Youth Athletics, Tyrer has teamed up with local sports organizations and members of the Parks and Recreation Commission to honor the Wilhites, Pearsons and all other Manhattan Beach families who participate in the city's youth sports by building a commemorative walkway at the park's entrance. 

"Whether through water, stone, light or plants, we want to ensure that life is known for its many cycles, and that we each might reflect on our role—and responsibility—within the communities we belong (to) and potentially influence," Tyrer said. 

In addition to the inspirational walkway, the Commission is also proposing Marine Avenue Park renovations that include a skate park and the installation of synthetic turf on the baseball diamonds and soccer field. The American Youth Soccer Association has already committed $100,000 toward a synthetic soccer field.

The City Council will consider the proposed park enhancements and whether to designate funds for the project at an upcoming meeting.

"Most of it will be community-funded," Recreation Services Manager Mark Leyman said of the park's renovations. He added that aside from private donations, the City Council "could seek corporate donations as well."

The Marine Avenue Park proposal will be revisited at the next Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on March 22 at City Hall.


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