Thursday, October 16, 2008 Zontians put up Starwalk park
DIGNITARIES frequenting Baguio would not be losing touch even after their stay here as they would be asked to leave permanent marks as reminders that they once toured the city.
The Zonta Club of Baguio initiated the establishment of a park where stars and noted persons could leave their handprints, a unique feature among the city's several parks.
Club president for 2006-2008 Ophelia Flores said the park would serve as reminder of the VIPs (very important persons) who visited and stayed in the city.
Called the Starwalk Park, Zonta is improving more on the environs of the recreational area located along Valenzuela Street, to lure more visitors to frequent the site.
The Starwalk Park was adopted by Zonta, as part of the City Government's "adopt-a-park" program.
"We thought of making this park a Starwalk Park because our city is a favorite destination of stars and dignitaries and we want them to leave a memento of their visit. What better remembrance than this handprint for posterity?" Flores said.
Baguio Representative Mauricio Domogan and Mayor Reinaldo Bautista were the first personalities to leave their imprints in the area during the unveiling of the Starwalk Park marker last August 22.
The Starwalk Park would be the first of its kind in the city and in the country, Flores said. The initiative, she said, was inspired by a European concept.
"The adopt-a-park project is our response to the city government's call to protect the environment and to care for our city," Flores said.
Also gracing the unveiling ceremony was Georgilla Puyat, Zonta International District 17 Lt. Gov. for 2008-2010.
Zonta Club of Baguio was formally organized by Zontians from Manila in the persons of Dorothy Thompson from Toronto, Canada; Cecilia Muñoz-Palma, Fely Roxas Tanco and Doña Trining Legarda.
It is one of the clubs under the Zonta International, a worldwide service organization of women executives working together for the advancement of the status of women.
Zonta International was founded in Buffalo, New York on November 8, 1919.
Aside from environmental protection projects, Zonta Club of Baguio is also engaged in literacy programs in support to the Alternative Learning System of the Department of Education; an active advocate of the Violence Against Women Campaign, supporter of livelihood programs for women and protector children's welfare. (JC)
