Working to build positive community

It is the second week of Shafter Strong month. Last week, residents decorated their homes in a patriotic theme. This week, they are encouraged to take to their sidewalks and driveways with chalk, thanking those first responders who are working to keep Shafter safe and healthy.

A number of residents have already created masterpieces and posted them online.

The month-long event was dreamt up by Colleen Diltz, Diana Barnett, Debbie Haley and a host of other citizens who were determined to find a way for the people of Shafter to do something during the stay-at-home order. An idea was hatched to showcase the past and present unity, strength and patriotism of Shafter.

The Villagomez family had a great time together designing their drawings on the sidewalk. Another artist on display was 3-year-old Vivian Lewis, daughter of Jordan Lewis, who drew a big sun to celebrate the special week.

Families came out at different times of day so the suggested social distancing practice could be observed. This is an important point that the city of Shafter wants to ensure residents are aware of: Until the governor and the Public Health Department say otherwise, there is still a social distancing policy in place throughout the state.

Next week will be Light the Night week in Shafter. Residents are encouraged to light up their houses and yards with red, white and blue lights.

"I think that this is such a great way for us to be doing something positive," Diltz said.