Image courtesy of the City of Alameda.

THE STORY: City leaders considered demolishing and replacing the Clark Memorial Bench in Jackson Park after a windstorm damaged a concrete apron that fronts the 94-year-old bench. Neighbors have complained that the bench encourages illicit behavior and parks leaders have said they're having a hard time keeping up with the graffiti sprayed onto it, but preservationists wanted it saved.

THE LATEST: Members of the Recreation and Park Commission decided the existing bench should be saved, and a community group called Save the Bench has launched a fundraising effort to pay for its restoration. The city will contribute $5,000 to the effort, the group announced, and Eric Gantos of the Hot Rod Shop, Inc., another $1,000. The Alameda Architectural Preservation Society is kicking in another $500, the group announced. And Tucker's Ice Cream is creating a special ice cream flavor it will sell, with proceeds to benefit the restoration effort.

WHAT'S NEXT: Donations are being accepted online at www.savethebench.org, and an account has been set up at the Bank of Alameda to accept donations.

MORE INFORMATION: The Alamedan's reporting on the bench is here and here. Additional information is available by calling Denise Shelton at 508-2603.

Disclosure: Denise Shelton writes for The Alamedan.