Shafter getting Stronger

Despite being separated by distance, masks and a stay-at-home order, members of the Shafter community are confident this can still be a time to come together.

The month of May has been dedicated as Shafter Strong Month.

There will be a different theme each week, giving opportunity for the community to show unity and strength.

This first week in May, residents are encouraged to decorate their houses with patriotic items, such as flags, windsocks, door decorations and bunting. May 10-16, the second week, is Chalk Art Week. Residents can add patriotic or Shafter Strong-themed chalk art to their driveways and sidewalks, as well as use chalk to thank first responders and health care workers for their service to the community.

The third week in May is Light the Night Week. Community members are invited to display red, white and blue lights to their houses, windows and yards.

May 24-31, the fourth week, is Shafter Strong Patriotic Parade Week. Residents are encouraged to greet their neighbors while walking, biking, skateboarding or driving a car decorated patriotically. Flags, bandanas and posters are some of the possibilities.

The idea for the project was conceived by some residents who were frustrated with the inability to go about daily routines, meetings, etc., and wanted to do something.

Local photographer Colleen Diltz mentioned the idea to Captain Diana Barnett of the Shafter Police Department, as well as Debbie Haley of the Shafter Chamber of Commerce. She thought a themed project might help lift the spirit of the community and allow members to do something in this time of inactivity.

With ideas formed, Colleen contacted [BEGIN ITAL]The Shafter Press[END ITAL] and the project was born.

Lynnda Martin of American Refuse, for one, is very excited. "As a community, we are lucky to have such wonderful community members like Colleen who want to help lift the spirit of the community. What a positive way for us all to be together when we are all supposed to be apart. I hope this gathers participation throughout our community as it will be an inspiring way to see how united we are as we drive or walk through our great town."

Residents are encouraged to send photos of their houses and sidewalks to Shafter Press Editor Jamie Stewart at [email protected].