(March 1, 2006) — The grinding noise of the skateboard wheels against the asphalt fills the space as people of all ages plunge through the air showing off the new tricks they have mastered. With its big space, many slopes, friendly environment and fun Friday night activities, the Glendale Verdugo Skate Park has become a popular hangout spot for skateboarders of all ages. Opened in September 2005, the park is a skater’s heaven. It is a 15,000 square feet concrete facility, has a 6-9 ft. clover bowl with an 11 ft. over vert section, a 6-10 ft. kidney pool, a “street plaza” with rails and ledges and a snake run that lets out into a nine ft. bowl with a loveseat. The park is located on 1621 Cañada Blvd. in Verdugo Park, next to the basketball courts is across the street from Quizno’s Subs, Coffee Bean and Tealeaf and McDonald’s. Admission to the park is free for all teens under the age of 17 and for all Glendale residents. Hours are from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. The park’s busy hours are usually after 7 p.m. and on weekends. On weekdays, it is usually a quiet and calm place to skate and practice. Senior Richard Reza goes to the Verdugo Skate Park about once a month. He likes the park because it is spacious and has a good environment. “People at the park are really friendly, people watch out for each other. It’s a good place to just chill with your friends,” Reza said. Free skateboarding lessons for ages 14 and under are offered every Saturday 10 a.m.-noon. Students seeking lessons must have a board and protective gear. Other activities such as “Friday Night Lights” are also offered. The “Friday Night Lights” activity started Feb. 3 and continues every Friday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. During this time, skaters of all ages gather to skate, watch new skate videos and play PS2 games. Skaters get a free slice of pizza with a purchase of a raffle ticket, which costs $1. A drawing is held on the last Friday of the night and the winner receives a prize. The Glendale Verdugo Skate Park is a safe and fun place to hang out with friends. Next time you have a great trick to show off, gather your friends and head towards the Verdugo Skate Park and have a blast.