A hat tip is deserving of Josh Waddle, membership director of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce for facilitating a youth event using the resources in downtown DeKalb. The mission? Bring young people downtown. Budget? Shoestring.
Josh Waddle
Turn the cards you’re dealt into a winning hand. Waddle convinced Ariel Ries and Jay McLemore at Small Town Skate Shop, rather easily, to organize a downtown event. A skateboard fair emerged that was well attended and almost self ran.
Skateboarding is an individual sport and a performing art utilizing balance, athleticism and body control. As a form of expression it requires rhythm and personality. Attire is extremely casual.
For the event to be successful a lot of work was required. McLemore, Ries and friends built ramps and props as a challenge and a stage for skateboards. The cost of materials was underwritten by Michael Embrey, Jeff Richardson and Jeff Gorman. The coattails of Kishwaukee Fest is worn proudly by Embrey and that helped to promote any event that coincided.
There were college kids and little kids, parents, friends and observers. The Barbed Wire Betties roller derby ladies were dressed in full gear to remind folks there is a new sport in town. The popcorn stand was rocking and the Confectionery was busy, too. All in all the event put a youthful face on downtown.
Mission accomplished.
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