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July Declared Parks Make Life Better Month
At the Selma City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, the council unanimously declared July as Parks Make Life Better Month in Selma, CA, through a proclamation presented by Councilmember Santiago Oceguera and Acting Community Services Director Liz Martinez. The proclamation underscores the vital role of parks in fostering health, community engagement, and economic vitality in the Central Valley city. Oceguera, who served as community services chair for over 20 years, emphasized, “This resolution recognizes importance of equitable access to local parks, recreation trails, open space and facilities for the positive development of all Californians and their communities.”
Parks Promote Health and Community Cohesion
The proclamation highlighted multiple benefits of parks, stating, “Parks and recreation promotes physical, emotional, and mental health and wellness through organized and self-directed fitness, play and activity.” It also noted that parks support economic vitality by partnering with local businesses and nonprofits to host community events. Martinez added, “The work that our department does here is amazing. We have a really great team that just really puts everything out of their heart into our community.” The council emphasized that parks foster social cohesiveness by celebrating diversity and providing safe spaces for residents to connect, particularly in Selma, CA.
Celebrating Park Professionals and Community Stories
The council recognized July 18, 2025, as Park and Recreational Professional Day, with plans for internal celebrations to honor the community services team. Martinez shared, “In our profession, it’s just we get a whole month to celebrate.” Additionally, the California Parks and Recreation Society has launched a statewide hotline for residents to leave up to three-minute voicemails sharing positive park experiences. Martinez encouraged participation, stating, “I encourage anybody who has had a wonderful experience at one of our parks to call in and just give an explanation.” These voicemails will be collected for data and shared across California to highlight the impact of parks.
Parks as Pillars of Selma’s Identity
The proclamation emphasized that parks strengthen Selma’s community identity by reflecting its heritage, culture, and landscape. “Parks and recreation strengthens community identity by providing facilities and services that reflect and celebrate community character,” Oceguera read. The council also noted parks’ role in sustaining natural resources and promoting ecological functions, making them essential to the Central Valley’s environmental health. Mayor Scott Robertson and council members Jim Avalos, John Trujillo, and Mayor Pro Tem Sarah Guerra expressed support for these initiatives, reinforcing Selma’s commitment to accessible recreational spaces.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Residents and council members alike praised the community services department’s efforts. Martinez urged the public to share stories of enjoying Selma’s parks, saying, “Maybe you enjoyed a nice shady tree or maybe you enjoyed playing at one of our parks or you have a fond memory of participating in one of our events.” The council’s focus on parks aligns with broader efforts to enhance community life in Selma, CA, through events and infrastructure improvements. The proclamation serves as a call to action for residents to engage with and celebrate their local parks throughout July.
What’s your favorite memory of spending time at a park in Selma, CA, and how has it impacted your life?
Francisco Ramirez is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform that blends business networking, community support, and social media to uplift local entrepreneurs.
As a former Mayor of Hanford, California, he launched the Winter Wonderland event and brings over 20 years of business consulting experience. He is also a motivational speaker, life coach, strategist, author, podcaster, and skilled web and graphic designer.
He created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, a seminar on self-esteem and anti-bullying that has inspired youth across the region. Through media and consulting, Francisco empowers others to lead, grow, and make an impact.
