If you haven’t seen the sports page yet, make sure you read Paul Robeson’s story on Alex Shannon, Anderson’s new rising skateboard star. Shannon is currently the top-ranked competitor in his age group, 15-17 years, in the North State Skate Series. The series began in Redding Sept. 15 and is making the circuit to the skateboard park in Red Bluff on Sept. 29, finishing in Anderson Oct. 20 at our Volonte Park skateboard park.

Even if you’re not a skateboard fan, it’s hard not to admire the coordination, skill and energy it takes to move a board and a person through the air. Shannon has no doubt invested a lot of practice to get be #1 in his age group so far. His focus and determination is laudable.

There is so much in the world that can sidetrack kids from exploring their strengths and finding encouragement to pursue a goal. Kids need good challenges and the skills and tools to meet them. Whatever can be done to keep them on that track should be a top priority. Best of luck at the next competitions, Alex.

Congratulations to the Anderson High Cubs for a spectacular homecoming game — 35-0 against the Orland Trojans. West Valley put up a good fight, but will have to wait until next year to win their homecoming game.

We’ve been posting more and more photo galleries on our Web site, www.andersonvalleypost.com. Many of the photos are from high school sports, and we usually post them the same day, soon after the game. Viewing the galleries is a great way to relive memories and if you couldn’t make the game. If you just want to follow the local sports, it’s a way to catch the highlights. We usually include some snaps of people in the bleachers, too — so, check it out; you never know who you might see.