Local skateboarders and their parents are using a variety of unique, money-raising ventures to build a skateboard park in Columbiana.

Recently, members of the community came out to a hula-hoop fundraiser and swirled their hips to win tickets to Bernie&8217;s on Main Street, a local restaurant. Lee Brasher won the contest, with an hour and 40 minutes, though a young girl came in second with 52 minutes.

Organizer for the event, Ruby Cardwell, believes the park would bring &8220;good unity for the community.&8221; &8220;Lots of children really want this dream,&uot; she said. &8220;We don&8217;t have anything to keep them here, and we need to stick together like a little Mayberry.&8221;

The event raised $320 dollars for the park, but the amount is a drop in bucket compared to the $10,000 they must raise before the city begins to match the amount.

&8220;We&8217;re hoping to get two or three little grants in November,&8221; Cardwell said. The anticipated amount could total up to $5,000. In the meantime, however, Cardwell and other local families will continue holding yard sales.

As the unofficial chairperson and fundraising coordinator, Cardwell works hard to battle the often-unjust stereotype of skateboarders. &8220;People are not used to looking at children having styles but at times, every child goes through a style. Kids with all kind of styles, short hair and long hair, would love have [the park],&8221; she said.