By TIM PRESTON - The Independent
GRAYSON — Determined to find funds for a skatepark in Grayson, members of the Carter County Skateboarding Association (CCSA) have committed themselves to help with clean up chores after the upcoming Carter County Fair.
“They are working very hard on this,” said CCSA publicity chair Pat Collier, explaining the fair board normally has to pay to have the fairgrounds picked up and will instead contribute to the skateboard group’s fundraising effort to reward their efforts.
CCSA members will also raffle three donated skateboards during the fair (Aug. 10-15), with proceeds going to the skatepark project. Collier said Papa John’s of Grayson donated two of the skateboards to be raffled, and the third was contributed by brothers Ryan and Blake Oney, who recently opened Screen Door Skate Shop in Grayson.
Ryan Oney, 20, of Olive Hill said he and his brother have been riding skateboards for about 10 years, although he was forced to slow down after an ankle injury. Oney said the recently opened skate supply shop has a variety of events, including concerts, scheduled to benefit the skatepark project, and is actively putting together a skateboard team for competitions.
Oney said he believes a skatepark in Grayson will help combat problems, including drug use in Carter County, “based on the kids that come in here and hang out all day.”
The skateboarding association has also scheduled a mini competition for Oct. 4, with competition events including longest jump, speed challenge and freestyle tricks.
CCSA members welcome newcomers during their next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the First Church of Christ Family Life Center. During that meeting, members will sign up volunteers to work at the CCSA booth during the Carter County Fair, and plan their next field-research trip.
For more information call Pat Collier at (606) 475-9626.
TIM PRESTON can be reached at tpreston@dailyindependent.com or at (606) 326-2651.
