Shiverbrains, l to r: Levon Myers, Liam Simpson, Thea Merrill, and Henry Merrill.
Skate Park Jam was once again a bustling event, with an even more significant presence of families and kids, making it a genuinely inclusive gathering. The participation of world-famous skaters added to the excitement. On Saturday morning, Randy Katen, a pro skater since 1977, generously shared his skating tips with all the kids. The skate park was a generous donation from Jeff Ament, Pearl Jam, who was also present. It's amazing how far people come. One always comes from Brazil, and two came to Big Sandy this year, flying in just from leaving the Olympics!
Skateboarding, once considered a niche sport, is gaining popularity in Big Sandy. The fact that one of the older boys is now giving lessons to a seven-year-old is a clear sign of this growth and the bright future of skateboarding in our community.
One of the most memorable moments for me was listening to my grandchildren play in their band, Shiverbrains. The fact that my 98-year-old mother-in-law, Ruth Merrill, joined me to enjoy Rock and Roll made it even more special.
Ray Barbee was inducted into the Skateboard National Hall of Fame in 2020. I noticed him talking to Henry at Pep's before the show. He was all smiles! He was talking easily with the kids. I didn't know who he was, but Henry told me he was a famous skateboarder. I looked him up; sure enough, that man visiting with my grandson was world-renowned. Ray Barbee is well respected and one of the most loved "pro skateboarders to have emerged from the late-1980s and early-'90s. Born in San Francisco, California, in 1971, Ray started skateboarding at age 12 in 1983.
I have visited with many of the people who travel to Big Sandy and found them to be engaging and comfortable. They care a great deal about kids! Jeff Ament has always loved skateboard skating and is happy to create a place where kids can learn new skills and try a new sport.
