by Nicole Matheson

There were smiles all around at the ribbon cutting ceremony at Rotary Park on Wednesday afternoon. The ceremony celebrated the installation of new playground equipment, the We-Go-Round. The We-Go-Round is wheelchair accessible and encourages safe play by spinning gently for all ages and All Abilities.

“Today’s ribbon cutting is more than just the opening of a new play feature,” said Gabby Vera, director of Parks and Recreation, “It’s a reflection of what can happen when a community comes together, speaks up and advocates for something better.”

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“This accessible We-Go-Round represents inclusion, opportunity and the simple but powerful idea that every child deserves to play, laugh and belong,” Vera declared.

In attendance at the ribbon cutting were representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, the city and Mayor Cal Sheehy. Samantha Zasadil of Building Bridges in Lake Havasu Chapter of National Ambucs Inc. was at the ceremony. Also present were all abilities members of Mile Markers, New Horizons and RISE. They made use the new equipment immediately following the ribbon cutting, and much laughter was shared.

Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce, city represenatives, those with All Abilities and their families, as well as Building Bridges of Lake Havasu pose for a photo for the ribbon cutting Wednesday afternoon. Photo courtesy Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce

“Really exciting addition to Rotary Community Park,” Mayor Sheehy said at the ceremony before taking the We-Go-Round for a spin with some of the families present in an especially fun, heartfelt moment.

“At the end of the day, this space is about connection,” shared Vera. “It’s about kids of all abilities playing side by side. It’s about families creating memories. And it’s about building a community where everyone feels seen, valued and included.”

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Photo courtesy Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Chase Perry rides the We-Go-Round Wednesday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Andrea Helart of the Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce and “Lindsey” ride the We-Go-Round at Rotary Park before the ribbon cutting. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The Zasadil family rides the all abilities We Go Round Wednesday afternoon. The We Go Round is for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene