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May 7th, 2013 - New Pro Model
Outbreak Skateboards brings you my 12th pro model, Doug Brown to the Future, designed by the talents of the Outbreak team and Matt Aloma and Tony Leard. The year was 1986 when I first saw Back to the Future, I saw Marty McFly soaring down Doc's driveway and my world opened up to skateboarding. Huey Lewis and the song Power of Love was blasting from the Lyric Twin Cinema's speakers and I was engulfed into the film. One of the greatest movies of all time. I even met Michael J. Fox a few years back to mark off a tab on my bucket list. Super stoked on this deck, it's been in the back of my mind for years and my faithful deck sponsor Outbreak Boards made it a reality. So, go back to the future with me and enjoy this new deck! Order here.
May 6th, 2013 - YMCA Learning Academy
What a great visit to the YMCA/Learning Academy. Upon arrival the kids ran up to the fence, "Hi Doug Brown!" and "Doug!" it was cute, they were very assertive and had so many questions and fun comments. They've been talking about helmet safety so it was good I brought mine and discussed the importance of using one. Thank you Wooster Weekly for coming out and doing a story on the event. I left to a sea of high-fives and smiles, mission accomplished. People are never too young or too old to be inspired.
April 29th, 2013 - Imagine Romig School
What a great day, spoke to the wonderful students of Imagine Romig Rd. Community School. They were so full of energy and were very receptive to my program.
April 23rd, 2013 - Isham Elementary
Had a great great time speaking to Isham Elementary, putting my heart and soul into these visits like always. Another one in a few days.
April 20th, 2013 - Hudson Book Fair and Holly House Fundraiser
What an amazing day of events! Reaching people, getting to meet so many remarkable people. Both events today were a blast, the book signing in Hudson and being the MC for the Holly House Fundraiser. A great day.
April 16th, 2013 - Ronald McDonald House
What an amazing day at the Ronald McDonald House. I got to meet with several families, it was just great. Getting to bring a smile into their day was so rewarding. Some of the families didn't even speak English but that never stopped the smiles from flowing. The Ronald McDonald House is an awesome resource and they have huge hearts, was grateful to visit. Thank you Athletes for Hope for the nice write up. (Click here for info)
April 14th, 2013 - Movie Casting
Had a great day, I've been doing a lot of auditions for movies and such the past couple weeks. Today was for Kevin Costner's new movie Draft Day. I will be on 19 Action News tonight at 10pm. Had an audition for a speaking role last week and another this week. This is all just for fun, I did grow up in the theater so this isn't a stretch for me. Meanwhile, this Tuesday I will be visiting the Ronald McDonald House with Athletes for Hope. I'll be speaking to the patients then speaking to all the families together as an event. Saturday I have two events, I will be doing a book signing at the Hudson Library & Historical Society Book Fair from 1-4pm (Click here for info) then directly to the Holly House Fundraiser where I will be the MC for the event from 5-9pm (Click here for info) Much more ahead, till then! Doug
April 11th, 2013 - Wooster Township School
I had a great time at Wooster Township school today, they were an awesome receptive audience with plenty of energy and good questions. Many thanks to everyone from Wooster Township school. Next week I will be visiting the Ronald McDonald House with Athletes for Hope. I'll be speaking to the patients then speaking to all the families together as an event. They are excited, I'm excited, it will be a special event to reach out, always. I will be the MC for the Holly House Event next week, there will be live music, raffles, and so much more. It's for a great cause. Please come and show your support!
April 6th, 2013 - Miles for Madison
Had an amazing day, Miles for Madison was a blast! I did a lot of running in place to stay with my crew but everyone made it to the finish line, all for Madison! I met Madison last November at the Akron Children's Hospital. This event was to raise awareness for Stevens Johnson Syndrome which is a rare serious disorder. She has been through so much and it was great to see her and her family in such high spirits on this day. So much ahead in the next few months! Stay tuned.
March 20th, 2013 - Visiting the Classroom
Today was great, visiting Mrs. Shoup's class. So much great positive energy. One of the students a week ago did an essay on me, the mom emails me with thanks, then emails the teacher, then a week later I visit the school :) Was completely worth it. I'm confirmed to speak at another high school graduation commencement ceremony. So many exciting events ahead!
March 18th, 2013 - Connecting with a fan and updates
Tonight was awesome, I was invited to meet a special fan for dinner with his friend and adviser. Dusty has Williams Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes developmental delays, and learning disabilities. He is 25 and has such a strong endearing spirit and individualism. He had been to one of my speaking events back in September and has been following my career. He had a slew of questions but I was really caught off guard on how complimentary he was with me. With complete sincerity he kept thanking me for the inspiration including that I had heart when sharing my life story. Dusty has a spark, a gift of being in the moment and enjoying all things. We talked about movies and he had a very large array of voice impressions he could do spot on. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. Right when I got in the car Dusty spoke of how he saw me as a warrior and that in life we have to be warriors and stand up for ourselves and believe in ourselves. The night ended with the same dialog, he told me to keep on doing what I'm doing and reaching people. Dusty is a warrior and doesn't know it, I assured him he was the warrior. He deals with a lot, from bullies to kids that see him and say things. His life has been filled with struggles. But yet, he subscribes to optimism and has a shining soul. We are all battling something. We are all warriors in our lives and must tackle things with purpose and positiveness. He inspired me and I inspired him.I've been doing a lot of book events, check tour dates for more info. I acquired something today that is completely AWESOME. An original 1985 Valterra skateboard. I started skating back in 1986, after seeing Marty McFly skate down Doc's driveway I was hooked. That movie played a part in my skateboarding. Till next time, Doug
March 6th, 2013 - Donations, Skatopia, Idol, Jim Tressel
Wow things have been busy. I've been donating a lot of items for auctions including West Hill Baptist Church's benefit to be held Saturday, March 9th, 2013 at the WHBC Family Life Center, in Ohio. I had so many people telling me I was in the movie Skatopia 88 Acres of Anarchy. Finally got to see it, grab a copy if you get the chance, support Brewce and his crew! I've been upgraded from judge to host for the 2013 International Quota Idol should be a great time, excited. I'll still be a judge on the last two nights at the Performing Arts Center. While being on the lecture circle I got to meet Jim Tressel and attend his event. I'm still writing a lot for my new book, so many things ahead. Check my facebook for the latest updates, Doug
Janurary 22rd, 2013 - Boys and Girls Club of Western Reserve Akron
Today I got to visit and speak at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve in Akron with Athletes for Hope for the Martin Luther King service week. These are the type of events I live for. Skateboard events have their place in my life but my heart is in my philanthropy work. I got the opportunity to meet some truly special kids and hopefully left a positive impact on them. Mission completed for today. Till next time, Doug
Janurary 21st, 2013 - Martin Luther King Day
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, in the name of love. I love what he represents and his important achievements. I love that he has inspired and pumped optimism into the world. His teachings of nonviolence still ring to generations of people. I've studied his work, I have a healthy pile of books and documentaries that I own about his life, philosophies and extraordinary accomplishments. As a child I would play his speeches on my cassette player. Even at a tender age he left a lasting impression on me and the importance and weight of words. I've become a motivational speaker and I speak at schools, libraries, and more across the nation. My favorite MLK testimony I share with people are the three loves. Love yourself, love your friends and family, and love even your enemies. As important as all the anti-bullying programs are in schools we must not forget teaching equality, the history of civil rights and human rights. Dr. King's image should not be soften through the decades. I am the exact age Martin Luther King was when he died. His work is not finished, together we need to continue to move forward toward equal rights and to eliminate the evil of hate that still pollutes the population. In his words, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” U2's Bono sings, "Free at last they took your life but they could not take your pride, in the name of love, what more in the name of love."
Janurary 16th , 2013 MLK Celebration Lecture
Tonight I got to participate in candlelight march at the College of Wooster that began at Lowry Center and then proceeded to Scheide Music Center. The event is to honor Dr.Martin Luther King Jr. on behalf of the 2013 MLK Celebration Planning Committee. It was great getting to hear and meet speaker/author Rinku Sen and her MLK Celebration Lecture.

December 29th 2012 - Best of 2012
Happy New Year my friends, It's been an amazing year. Countless events with schools, libraries and a handful of visits to hospitals with Athletes for Hope. My latest book Looking Glass Self found itself on shelves in book chains mainly Barnes and Nobles throughout the nation. I had my 20 year class reunion. Outbreak Skateboards released my 11th pro model, the Medallion deck which to date is by far my favorite deck ever produced. So many highlights from visiting Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang camp to being a judge for the Quota International. TV and radio appearances to having my Beyond the Board exhibit touring libraries... all in 2012. This is my 10th year as a pro skateboarder. My paying sponsors have been faithful and I continue to ride that skateboard to my fullest. I figured this ride would last maybe a couple years but with tenacity and staying productive I've always kept moving forward, if one door would shut another would open. My relationship with my skateboard is an important one but nothing is more important than reaching people in a meaningful way and creating positive relationships both professional and personal. Lots planned for 2013 so stay tuned. Thanks truly for the support throughout the years. Best regards, Doug.
December 19th 2012 - Merry Christmas
November 17th 2012 - Akron Children's Hospital
Today was a special day. For not going to medical school I sure have spent a lot of time over the years visiting people in hospitals. This afternoon I went to visit an eleven year old fan at Akron Children's Hospital. Upon entering the room her parents said it was the first time she had a full smile in over a week. Her illness wasn't discussed. I only brought words of encouragement and optimism. She reciprocated and thanked me over and over for my visit. I never forget for a moment that my life's journey has landed me in this room to help this little girl at this moment. Nothing I do in my career can carry more weight than reaching individuals like her. Bringing out that smile is the sole reason I do what I do.
October 20th 2012 - Schools and Libraries
Last night's event had a spark. What great energy and an enthusiastic audience. My highschool counselor Cherlyl Welch was there in attendance. I haven't seen her since I graduated 20 years ago. She was instrumental in helping me throughout my highschool years, was a thrill to see her. I went to bed last night with a feeling of satisfaction from the event. I had a feeling of "I'm doing this, I'm out there reaching people and making a difference in people's lives." All the schools and libraries I've been speaking to this fall, it's been unreal. The emails, the feedback from parents, the look in the kids eyes when I can tell I've reached them. I still continue to skate everyday and do skate events but the power that microphone has in my hands far outweighs anything I can do on a skateboard. It was a joyous evening, many thanks to everyone that came to the event.
September 20th 2012 - Wayne County Public Library Hometown Pride
Truly an amazing night last evening. Thank you so much to all the people that came to the event at the Wooster Library. I couldn't think of a better place to celebrate my 10 years of being pro and with such a great group of people! The after party at Applebees topped it off. Special thanks to Brandon for the all the help and Patrick Hoban for all the photography for the event. Thanks again everyone.
September 14th 2012 - Athletes For Hope, Boys and Girls Club, Front page Wooster Weekly
Today I visited the Boys and Girls club in Orrville Ohio as part of Athletes for Hope day of service week. I've been busy promoting my hometown visit event at the Wayne County Public library Thursday September 20th at 7pm. I'm excited to speak and see some familiar places. This week I graced the front cover of the Wooster Weekly. Click here to view article. I'm still skating all the time but as always my arena is to reach others and inspire.Lots of events this fall till then, Doug
August 22nd 2012 - 10 Years and Strong
Some may or may not know that this is my tenth year anniversary of being a professional skateboarder. A title I was never really comfortable with as it was a heavy one I never set out to have. I'm beyond humble on the position I've landed in. This is my full time job along with being an author and motivational speaker. A chance meeting at the Gravity Games in the summer of 2002 has planted the seeds of my career that has spawned a plethora of events and adventures across the globe. Landing my first pro model, touring arenas with bands, my first full page in Transworld Magazine, being on thousands of posters, the AST Dew Tour, Fuel TV, having my books published, a signature wheel, eleven pro models to date, paying sponsors, TV appearances, joining Athletes for Hope, becoming the founder of Skate Straight, even gracing the front of X-Air deodorant sticks in stores across the nation. I figured this ride would last a year or so. I've had lots of money, I've had no money. I've been loved, I've been hated. Through it all I remained true to myself and continued moving forward. No matter what happens in the upcoming years I've been blessed to have this decade of self discovery and purpose. For those involved in my career and the friends and fans I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Best Regards, Doug
July 26th 2012 - Connecticut Children's Hospital and PIAS In-store signing
Today was great, truly. My time in Connecticut has been awesome. The schedule has been insane but completely worth it! Reaching all these kids at all the hospitals and camps. Today started off by visiting the St.Marys Children's hospital in Waterbury then on to the in-store signing at the Play it Again Sports store. Thanks to everyone who came out to the signing, it was a blast! Having a final dinner with everyone tonight really was a great finish to my stay here. Thanks to 104.1 FM for the radio ad today about the signing. Special thanks to Matt, the PIAS crew and Janet for everything. I gotta be up at 6am I have a flight to catch. Till next time - Doug
July 25th 2012 - Boys and Girls club, Channel 3 Kids camp, Hole in the Wall Gang camp
WOW where do I begin? Today was truly amazing. I just left Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. I got to meet so many amazing kids. We did so much here. This was our last stop today. I got to do a skate demo for the kids, got to juggle pins with Mike from the Big Apple circus who toured with Britney Spears. First stop today was the Boys and Girls club of Waterbury CT, amazing crowd. When I arrived they had photos of me on the front door and through the hallways. After I spoke in the gym it was on to photos and autographs. Next stop was the Channel 3 Kids Camp. Great place, great audience signed 180 posters. Got a tour of the grounds by Amber then back in the PIAS van to the town of Ashford for our final event today. We ended up spending five hours at the Hole in the Wall Gang camp. Paul Newman's son in law was our guide for the last part of the day. I got to go to their theater and on stage where many famous actors had been, the list was amazing. Lastly I got to talk to the kids. Big day tomorrow!
July 24th 2012 - New Haven Children's Hospital CT
I just left Yale New Haven Children's Hospital. Bringing a smile to these kids faces is number 1 in my book. I met some truly remarkable people. The toy donation went great thanks to Southington's Play it Again Sports. Thanks everyone at New Haven for having us.
July 23rd 2012 - Connecticut - Kiwanis Summer Camp and My City Kitchen
Just flew into CT last night. What a great day. Started the day talking to a great group of kids and teens at the Kiwanis Summer Camp in Waterbury CT. Great people, great vibes, and we reached a lot of these kids. Next we got in the PIAS van set for the city of Meriden to visit "My City Kitchen" to cook with the wonderful Chef Kashia Diaz-Cave and her students. What an amazing program she has. Was fun cooking with them and meeting their crew. Heading back to the hotel for some rest. Busy week of events ahead!
July 16th 2012 - 20 Year Class Reunion and Updates
On June 29th I got to revisit the location for the photo I took for my book cover of Beyond the Board. It was sentimental and fun to revisit the spot. Click here for full story. My Beyond the Board exhibit is still touring libraries. I've been speaking a lot at libraries promoting my new book, Looking Glass Self and hopefully spreading hope and optimism within others. On July 8th I had my 20 year class reunion. What a great great night with my classmates from 92. Hugs, handshakes, and dancing. Conversations about old times and rekindling friendships. Was truly a special evening with a group of people that played a significant role in my life. On July 10th I turned 39, not over the hill yet! I had an event that day speaking at the Orrville Public Library. It was actually a great way to spend my birthday. The event reinforced why I do what I do. Next week I'm flying to Southington Connecticut for a huge week of events. Till then! Doug
June 23rd, 2012 Heritage Festival
Had a great time at the Cardingto Heritage Festival. Yesterday I got to visit my parents hometown while on the road. When I was in gradeschool I would spend my summers in this town so it was fun to skate these streets again and visit old spots. After visiting my moms grave a black SUV with tinted windows pulls up. The window rolls down and this girl asks if I was Doug Brown, well I reply yes. She gets out freaking out and asks for a photo and autograph. This was the strangest place I've ever done a signing or got noticed. No doubt my mom was looking down and chuckling. After the night in the hotel the event started bright and early to a sea of people. The festival had lots of bands, I got to indroduce the headlining act Hollywood Red. I hosted the skateboard competition which went well. The community had a lot of heart and really cheered these kids on. Special thanks to everyone in Cardington, Dereck, Zach, Dejah, and all the people that came out to the event. Till next time, Doug
June 21st, 2012 Tuscarawas Library and Go Skate Day
Back to back events. It was great to spend national Go Skate Day in my hometown, complete with a contest hosted by myself and the local skateshop. Yesterday I did a "Meet the Author" event at the Tuscarawas Library in New Philadelphia. They were an awesome audience and was thrilled to see so many people come out for the event. Afterwards I skated the local skatepark in the blistering heat. Tomorrow I'm back on the road to the Cardington Heritage Festival. Should be fun. Till next time, Doug
June 16th, 2012 Quota International Idol
Tonight was the Quota International Idol singing competition. This was a great event hosted by PBS's Matt Fox with contestants from all over. I got to be a judge which was a blast. My years of teaching music and being involved in the arts paid off this evening. There truly was some great talent. Most importantly I was involved in raising money for the deaf, people with speech problems and disadvantaged women and children. I donated a sign deck, poster, and both my new books for a raffle. Till next time, Doug
June 13th, 2012 Live on Sports Talk with Jeff Allen
Things have been very exciting and busy. Today I was on live tv for a 30 minute live interview on Sports Talk with Jeff Allen. A few years back I was on the show so this was my second appearance. Summer is in full swing with lots of events filling up my time. This coming week I have the Quota International competition on the 16th, then an appearance at the Tuscarawas Library in New Philadelphia on the 20th, then to my hometown on Go Skate Day the 21st to host a competition, then off to the Heritage Festival on June 23rd. Click here for tour dates and more info on events.Be sure to check out my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/skatestraight for my weekly give-aways. Till next time, Doug
May 18th, 2012 Updates
Things are busy and productive. Looking Glass Self has hit the shelves of all major book stores. I can't get over the support and feedback I've been receiving from people. Even strangers off the street, it's surreal. All the emails and creative ways people have contacted me to give me a letter sharing how my book has reached them. It really does sink in deep in my well of appreciation.I continue to skate daily and I've been visiting lots of schools this last month. The calendar is filling up. I will be on TV June 13th on Sports Talk. I'm doing the Vans Warped Tour again this summer. I'll be doing speaking engagements at several libraries and camps this summer Click here for tour dates. The Beyond the Board Exhibit tour continues June 1st through June 31st at the Tuscarawas Public Library in New Philadelphia Ohio. Tomorrow starts the Quota Idol competetion where I will be a judge. Click here to read the latest news article. Much more to report, stay tuned! Doug
April 26th, 2012 New Book in Stores
Where to begin? With the new book out a lot of doors have been opening. I've been doing a lot of promotional stuff like the radio interviews and all. It's an exciting time. I will be one of the four judges for the International Quota Idol competition this June. This week I've been invited to be a an official member of the Business Advisory Board at Ashland University. I am honored. The places my skateboard and voice has taken me. Click here to read the latest article. Lots of new tour dates being posted, stay tuned! Doug
March 31st, 2012 New Book!
New book: Looking Glass Self - Hope, Optimism and the Journey within. It's been a busy time. Lots of events planned for this summer, stay tuned.
March 2nd, 2012 Rookery Radio WYSU
Was a long day on the road. Today I met up with Outbreak Boards newest team rider Tommy Reis. We talked live on the air for two hours. Had a lot of fun phone calls and talked about life and skateboarding. Was cool to talk with the Outbreak team manager, Matt from Connecticut. Plans for a summer tour in the works. After the radio show we made our way to a Red Lobster for a nice dinner to welcome Tommy to the Outbreak team. It's an exciting time. I'm writing daily for my new book. The book will be an inspirational book. This won't be a skateboarding book in any sorts. I tackle a lot of subjects from hope, optimism, life, and the pursuit of happiness. I'm visiting a children's hospital this coming Tuesday with Athletes for Hope. Till next time, stay tuned! Doug
February 29th, 2012 Three Schools in One Day
What a day! 6am wake up to head out on the road. Torrential downpour. I'm to do 3 events in one day. 15 miles before the first school my muffler falls off. I'm in a residential neighborhood under the flood of my car hoping for a rig job, the whole pipe and muffler resides on the concrete to drag. With no luck I drive across the street to a preschool. I go inside and explain my dilemma. The preschool owner makes a phone call to her friend mechanic 7 miles down the road. My car is emptied of speakers, skateboards, suitcase, and all belongs for the 3 events today. I'm in a mini van now to which I have no idea who is driving me to the repair shop. From there the principal of the school I'm to speak to is in route to get me to the first destination. I'm to speak in 30 minutes so it's go go go. I'm completely drenched from head to toe but the show must go on. After the first two shows it was a sea of autographs and photos then to eating pizza in the car to the repair shop before the next school. Auto shop by this point has fixed my car and Google'd my website so I'm signing two posters for his kids. Now in my original car, sound gear, suitcases, etc. On route to the grade school. Why this story? It didn't matter what happened to me today on this journey. My destination was to reach all these kids and I was gonna skate down the rainy highway if I had to. Whatever it took. These kids had all brought skateboards for me to sign, printed photos of me from my website to sign, helmets, everything. Today was about them. Not me, not my failing muffler. Just my messages of hope and optimism and all the topics I tackle in my program. Special thanks to Dr.Meredith and Heather for the rescue. And especially to the hundreds of kids today for your undivided attention and respect. Much thanks! Doug
February 8th, 2012 Quicken Loans Arena, New Poster and Tribute to Mom
I have been busy. There aren't enough hours in the day for my life and not enough room on this page to list what I've been up to. I'm still visiting schools weekly. The event at Q Arena was awesome it was great to have the opportunity to speak to so many people. Connecticut's Outbreak Boards has really been behind the promotion of my new pro model even releasing a new poster for skate shops. The new deck is a tribute to my mother for those who don't know. I had dinner with my father the other night and got some more insight on the medallion necklace my mom use to wear. Click here to read more. I do keep my mothers memory alive in my travels. I've recently did a photo raising awareness for cancer. Click here to read more. I just got a proposal to do an event speaking and skating in the Ukraine this year. Keeping busy and staying positive. Join me on twitter www.twitter.com/dougbrownskate and facebook at www.facebook.com/skatestraight Till next time, Doug
Janurary 20th, 2012 Two Schools in One Day
What a day. Two schools in one day. Started off leaving at 6am through the back snow covered roads of Ohio to visit first a high school then to a middle school. Many of the schools in this area were closed due to weather but these remained opened which I was thankful after I survived the dicey journey. Speaking to these kids even in the early hours of the morning I still found energy to give my message and was rewarded with a terrific audience. Same with the middle school. The emails I received from the students and even some parents were a welcome surprise and reinforced my belief in what I've been doing. This coming Wednesday Jan.25th I will be at Quicken Loans arena with the Cleveland Cavaliers and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) This is my second year doing this event. It will be a blast! And this Saturday I will be joining the band Weekend Mission in a benefit concert. Click here for info.
December 24th, 2011 Year in Review, New Pro Model Coming Jan. 2012
Introducing the Doug Brown Medallion new pro model from Outbreak Boards featuring artist Tony Leard. This deck is a tribute to my mother that passed away from cancer when I was 16. She wore this actual medallion as a necklace throughout her life. This limited edition deck hits skate shops nationally this month. An amazing year this was. With lots of travels with highlights from Mexico to dancing on stage with Prince at the Los Angeles Forum. The plethora of schools, libraries, and hospitals I visited. From having three new pro models released by Outbreak Boards to being put on the pro team for Triple 8 Helmets. Having my first signature pro wheel with Goodlife Wheels and to having my book tour libraries nationally as an exhibit of my career makes me feel blessed. My Skate Straight Foundation has a healthy pulse and continues to be my focus in my career leaving me with a feeling of pride and accomplishment. To the pats on the back, the hand shakes, the autograph seekers, the mother that set me aside telling me my book saved her sons life to the kid in Burger King last week that freaked out when he saw me, I say thank you to all. Thank you to the new friends I've made throughout the year and to the old ones that continue to stand by me. Thank you to everyone that came to all the events. Happy New Year everyone with gratitude and kindness. Best regards, Doug
December 14th, 2011 Athletes For Hope Christmas Campaign
Back on the road. Had a great day and hopefully reached some people. Today's event was part of the Athletes for Hope holiday campaign. I'm honored to be an all star member. Started off with an interview with the newspaper then an interview with the TV station. They filmed part of my program to air tomorrow. The Children's Home of Mansfield came to the event and were full of energy and questions. Days like today remind me of why I do what I do. Feeling thankful.
December 10th, 2011 Oklahoma Off Broadway Skatepark Grand Opening
Wow where to begin? Flew into Arkansas late last night. Was picked up by my crew, had a nice dinner then went to Poteua Oklahoma to the hotel. Today was amazing. Started off at the rec center with the opening ceremonies. I got to talk to the community then on to some lunch. The demo went great with Todd Harder as master of ceremonies. Lots of skating, product tosses and a full on contest. The rest of the day I spent under the tent signing posters, t-shirts, and skateboards and getting to meet the kids one on one. What a great event, was stoked to be a part of it and a big thanks to Todd and Lisa and the city officials in Poteau for making this happen. After the event they took us out to a nice dinner. We then went to the El Solecito Mexican store and even signed some autographs to the store owner and a little boy that was thrilled to meet us because his cousin was at the event but he couldn't make it so we made sure to give him some posters and put a smile on his face. I do events like this all over the country and this one had a spark, the kids, the families, the city officials...everyone was positive and was thankful for this new park. And its a great great skatepark, I'll be back in Oklahoma soon. I gotta catch a plane tomorrow so I'm off to bed. Till next time! Doug
November 18th, 2011 Tomorrow Center, New Pro Model, Texas Pro-Am Contest
Today I visited the Tomorrow Center with my Skate Straight program. This was a special visit as it was near the town my parents grew up in. My dad had played basketball in this gym when he was in highschool. Reaching the youth with my program has been just awesome. I'm getting to do a couple schools a week sharing my life story and the lessons I've acquired along the way. This really has been rewarding. My board sponsor Outbreak will be releasing a limited edition new pro model this holiday season, definitely stoked. I was just invited to be a judge for the Pro-Am Bowl Jam in Texas on December 3rd. Click here for info. I will be in Oklahoma on Dec.10th for the Off Broadway Skatepark grand opening. Click here for info. Till next time! Doug
November 7th, 2011 Visiting Schools, Skating Daily
My mission continues with my Skate Straight foundation growing and visiting many schools and hospitals. SMB is producing a poster for the USA and UK with my fellow team mate Tony Leard. My Beyond the Board exhibit is now touring libraries. The feedback has been great and the exhibit seems to inspire people which is great. The original idea was just to promote my book and the whole project took on a life of its own. Click here for virtual tour or click here for the promotional video. Had a photo session a couple days ago at a national monument. Life is good, skating daily and keeping moving. Till next time! Doug
October 10th, 2011 Beyond the Board Exhibit
That's right folks, my goods, all my pro models, badges, and fun things from my career are on display and hitting a library near you. I'm nearing my tenth year of being a professional skateboarder and speaker and so to help promote my book with Skate Straight my literary agent has been booking this exhibit at libraries. The exhibit has seemed to inspire people and the feedback has been overwhelming. Its my way of sharing my journey and I appreciate all the support with the exhibit. Right now the exhibit is going from Oct. 6 through Nov. 6th at the Wayne County Public Library in Wooster Ohio. Check tour dates for more info and locations. Till next time! Doug
October 7th, 2011 Holmesville School
Today was Homesville Elementary. I normally do my Skate Straight program at high schools and middle schools so today was fun. Upon arriving at the school my first stop was the kindergarteners classroom to talk. No doubt their questions and comments were entertaining. Then it was on to the auditorium were the kids had a great energy and were very receptive to my program. This school reminded me so much of my gradeschool when I was a kid. I felt like I was back in the talent show in 1983. After the program the kids were hungry for autographs and had plenty of questions. My agent was along for the journey and she normally doesn't get to go with me so this was a special gig for sure. Till next time, Doug
September 24th, 2011 Skate Jam with Heed the Call
What a great couple days.. back to back events. I've met and hopefully reached so many people in the past two days. From yesterday's Skate Straight event to today's skate comp with the band Heed the Call. I would have to say the highlight was getting to jam with the band. To my surprise when I looked up the whole crowd was around the stage as I let lose on the guitar. Thanks everyone for coming out to the events. From friends to fans I am truly appreciative of all of you.
September 23rd, 2011 Newark Public Library
 
September 19th, 2011
I'm meeting someone today that is going through a difficult adverse time. I'm unable to share the circumstances of their situation but it's my skateboarding that has put me in this position to be an inspiration and mentor to this individual. I feel fortunate to be able to help and give back. I'm a strong advocate of women's rights. Join me this Friday at the Newark Library for my Skate Straight event click here for info. This Saturday I will be joining the band Heed the Call for a skate jam and contest click here for info. Till next time! Doug
September 14th, 2011 Cabos San Lucas Mexico
Go go go. It's been a busy few weeks. I just got back from Cabos Mexico, great skating and met some great people. Upon coming home it was back to back gigs with the first event being at Marion Skatepark then direct to speaking at a festival. Then a night in a hotel straight to the Steven Baker Fundraiser. Today I did my Skate Straight program at the Loudonville public library then next week I will speak at another library and a high school. I'm skating daily but my message and microphone are still my focus. I'm proud to announce my new sponsorship with SMB Bearings out of the UK. This is a good partnership and they are fully behind my efforts and they have a great product. Till next time! Doug
August 29th, 2011 Akron Children's Visit
Today I had the unique opportunity to visit a young man that empowered extraordinary strength and courage. A week ago today his life took a turn in a moment due to an accident during gym class landing him paralyzed from the neck down. Upon entering the room a big smile was there to greet me and the connection was made. His father was so appreciative and stated it was the happiest he had looked. Sharing stories and talking about life with him and his father passed the hour. The maturity, strength, and optimism he had was truly remarkable. There was a reciprocal understanding in our conversation that no matter what happens in the future this isn't the end. His life can take many different directions but his state of mind and amazing resources will be key in his journey. Just yesterday he had over fifty visitors. The father's love for his son was something to see. He is surrounded by many friends and family that love him. For me, all I could give was my words of encouragement and support along with bringing a smile into the room. I had entered the room as the pro skater guy and left being a friend to him and his father. I left with a sense of fulfillment and pride. To see that already a week into this tragic dilemma they were going in full force with optimism being center stage. He was the star knowing his intellect and mindset will take him places, no matter what.

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