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
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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
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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
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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
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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. Click here to view. 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
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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
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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. Lots of new
tour dates being posted, stay tuned! Doug
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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. Click here for the book
promotional video. Order book here
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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. Doug
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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September 23rd, 2011 Newark Public Library
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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
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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
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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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August 25th, 2011 Signature Wheel by Goodlife Wheels
Released
I'm proud to announce my signature wheels by
Goodlife Wheels is now available at your local skateshop
or online here. Summer is coming to an end but
there will be no slowing down the next couple months. So
many events planned, heading to Mexico next week for some
events which will be awesome. From seeing the release of
my new 3 pro models from Outbreak Boards to skating at
the Vans Warped Tour to skating Canada and visiting
hospitals and libraries then skating at skate camps this
summer has truly been amazing. For upcoming events click here. More to come! Doug
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July 28th, 2011 Connecticut Tour
I'm here in Southington Connecticut. I flew
in yesterday afternoon greeted by John with the PIAS
sports chain. They took me out to a nice dinner thrn
checked into my hotel complete with a fireplace. Today
started with a visit to the children's hospital then to
the Meriden YMCA to speak to a few hundred kids then
straight to the in-store signing at the PIAS store. Its
now the last night of the trip before I fly out. Today
was an appearance at YMCA Camp Sloper which was a blast.
We all went canoeing after the event then out to a nice
bonfire dinner with the owners of PIAS. What an amazing
few days. Thanks to everyone who showed up to the
in-store and everyone at the events. Feeling very
thankful to be able to reach so many people in a positive
light. Special thanks to John, Janet, Tammi, Tyler, Matt,
Alex, CT Medical Center, and the crew at PIAS. Till next
time, Doug
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July 20, 2011 Vans Warped Tour
Great day of skating at the Vans Warped
Tour. Met a lot of great people, good bands, good vibes
and a full day of shredding in 98 degree weather.
Finished the day rockin out to A Day to Remember live.
Summer 2011 has been jam packed with events. I've been
doing my Skate Straight program at lots of libraries. I'm
flying to Connecticut for a handful of events next week.
Special thanks to the Picketts, Jim at Tri-Star, the Evo
crew, Alix, Brant, and everyone that came out today. Till
next time, Doug
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July 4th, 2011 Canada Niagara Falls Skatepark
Writing from the road I'm now in Canada. Had
a great event at the Niagara Falls Skatepark. Good energy
and positive vibes. Even scored a TV interview and did
some filming. Tonight I will be attending the fireworks
that overlook the falls. Spending time in Canada has been
awesome, did some site seeing and met some great people.
I'll be back in Canada this August at Toronto's Muskoka
Woods Skatecamp. Back on the road tomorrow. Special
thanks to all the skaters and everyone with Antigravity
skate shop! Till next time
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June 19th, 2011 Outbreak Ads, Comic Book, Go Skate Day
Outbreak Boards has released my three new pro
models entitled, the Alien Outbreak Series. They have
made two promotional ads that will appear in print and on
the web. In addition the artist at Outbreak is putting me
in a comic book to be released this summer. The summer is
jammed with events. I will be returning to Connecticut
for a load of events including the YMCA Skate Camp, a
hospital visit, Mountain Mist Outdoor Center, and an
in-store signing at Southington's PIAS store. I'll be
heading to Niagara Falls Skatepark in a couple weeks then
Vans Warped Tour then back to Canada at Muskoka Woods
Skatecamp. I'll be finishing the summer off in Mexico
which I'm looking forward to. This coming Tuesday for
national Go Skate Day (June 21st) I will be returning to
my hometown where I began skating back in 1986 for a
contest. Click here for more info. Join
me July 12th in Ohio for Skate Straight Click here for more info. Till next time
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June 17th, 2011 YMCA Skate Straight
Today I visited a YMCA camp to do my Skate
Straight presentation. They were a very energetic crowd
and very receptive to my message. I've had a series of
Skate Straight events and last week I got to perform at
the Patrick J. Drouhard Auditorium. I'm skating everyday
but without a doubt these events are the most important
thing I can do with my skateboarding. Summer has started
off great with many exciting events planned.
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May 25th, 2011 New Pro Models Alien Outbreak Series
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May 15th, 2011 Los Angeles & Hope Event
Amazing!
Last night at the Forum in Los Angeles.. danced on the
stage with Prince.. he even acknowledged my moves, center
stage in front of the whole arena, danced for a good five
minutes. Sheila E. was there, and Stevie Wonder. Best
concert I've ever been to. Dayton, Kentucky, California,
then Cincinnati all in 2 days and 5 hours of sleep with 3
plane rides. Today started at 3am with two plane rides
then a three hour drive to the Hope Celebrity event for a
personal appearance and signings with Nickelodeon's Matt
Underwood and Dj Dru West. A weekend to remember. Thanks
Nick for everything and filming, and everyone we met
along the way. Click here to view the clip.
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May 2nd, 2011 New Signature Wheel
This
spring Good Life Wheels is producing my first signature
set of wheels. They will be available at skateshops and
online. I've been digging through my archive of photos
and have added some in the new photo section. I just
finished a promo video for Skate Straight Click here to view. Join me
May 14th for Celebrity Hope Night with Nickelodeon's
Matthew Underwood and DJ Drew West for a fundraiser Click here for info. Rapper Dwaam has
mentioned me in his new single Beat it Up
available on their new cd Click here to here the clip. Many events
planned ahead and I've just joined forces with a new
skateboard sponsor that will be making my next three pro
models too be announced soon! Till next
time.
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March 20th, 2011 St.Baldrick's Foundation Fundraiser
Had a
great day with the St Baldrick's Foundation, donated a
lot of items to their auction raising a lot of money for
children with cancer, and cancer research. More important
than any skate event. The event was held at the Quaker
Steak Restaurant in N.Canton Ohio. Throughout the day I
was the MC and even got to help shave a head. Special
thanks to Abby, Anna, Sue, all the families, the teams,
and everyone that helped out today. Click here for video. Many
events ahead for spring and summer! Till next time, Doug
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February 10th, 2011 New Sponsors, Pro with Triple 8
Helmets
2011
has started with my new sponsor Deuce watches with myself
and Andy MacDonald on the skate side. I am also now a pro
rider for Triple 8 Helmets. My Skate Straight events have
really been keeping me busy and continue to be my driving
force in my skateboarding life. I will be joining
Athletes for Hope in Washington for 'DC Sports for Good'
in March. Click here for tickets and information. Also
be sure to stop by the Deuce booth in Vegas this weekend
at the MAGIC trade show. Click here for more info.
Some more exciting news to announce soon, until then,
keep skating and thanks for the support. Doug
--Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/skatestraight
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December 15th, 2010 Akron Children's Hospital
Words can't explain the events that transpired today.
This wasn't my first time visiting a children's hospital
and today confirmed why I do what I do. Walking through
the hallways with my skateboard in hand I visited many
patients ranging in age from six to eighteen. The
confirmation of smiles from each person I visited gave
weight to my purpose of being there. The smiley face I
added beside my signature on the posters I gave them went
a long way. The families and staff that surround these
special kids are remarkable. Days like today are about
heart, selflessness, and caring. I can inspire with my
words and my skateboard. These kids inspired me today
with their strength and courage.
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December 8th, 2010 Quicken Loans Arena
It's hard to believe we are nearing the end of 2010. Its
truly been a great year with loads of events and
happenings. Today was an eventful day at Quicken Loans
arena with the Cleveland Cavaliers and SADD (Students
Against Destructive Decisions) Upon entering the city we
were in the middle of a strong snow blizzard. It was then
to the lobby where I had a table set up to meet all the
students and teachers. After the meet and greet it was on
to the arena floor to talk. Outreach still remains my
focus with my Skate Straight program and it was awesome
to have the opportunity to speak. After the event we were
given great floor seats to see the Cavs play, literally
five feet from the court. Special thanks to Michelle with
SADD and all the students that came out for the event. As
a member of Athletes for Hope I will be visiting a
hospital next week to visit some kids. I hope you find it
in your heart this Christmas to get involved in some
charitable efforts and help those in need. The little
things do matter. Wishing you all a great Christmas and a
Happy New Year! Doug
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Novemember 4th, 2010 Leadership Development Conference
Today was a jam packed productive day. I left my hotel
around 9am and was in route to my venue, the Leadership
Development Conference in the city of Marion. I was the
featured speaker doing my Skate Straight program while
putting an emphasis on leadership skills and preparing
for the future. Surrounding schools were brought in by
bus. After my presentation I had the unique opportunity
to talk with a lot of the students one on one about their
concerns and their plans for the future. After lunch I
jumped across the street and changed my gear to skate
their local skatepark. I hosted a skate competition a few
years back in this town so it was good to see some
familiar faces and catch up with the locals. Next stop
was the small town where my parents grew up, surprised my
grandma and made a visit. She was pleased to see me since
my grandpa had recently past. It was back on the road for
a couple days home then next a book signing. I will be at
my Skate Straight booth at the Cavs game on Dec 8th be
sure to check my tour page for more info. Hope to see you
there! Doug
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October 22nd, 2010 Skate Straight in the Juvenile
Courthouse
Today was one of those days that had an extra spark. My
Skate Straight had a booking for a juvenile court to
speak to youth in group homes and detention centers
throughout the state. Upon arriving I was greeted by
Judge Raymond. To my surprise my book was part of a
reading program for these teens so they all had the book
in hand. As always these efforts continue to be my
foucus and I'm blessed my skateboarding has led me here.
November is filled with Skate Straight bookings and I'm
meeting Michael J.Fox in a couple weeks which will be
awesome. I'm skating strong and much more to come...
Doug
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October 17th, 2010 Ashland Skatepark Fundraiser
Today's event was true community grass
routes of skateboarding. The small town of Ashland has
had a coalition for years to keep their skatepark alive.
It was many years ago they invited me to the grand
opening of this park and the park had visibly aged with
wear and tear. So to be invited back and continue
with their efforts I was happy to be on board. These
smaller towns have a hunger and soul you don't see in
some of the spoiled cities out west that have skateparks
at their disposal. I hosted the competition to see some
great talent. Upon arriving in the town I saw my name on
their community screen scroll across in lights
advertising the event, it set the tone for the day...
open arms and great vibes in Ashland. Thanks to everyone
who came out to support the cause. Doug
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October
3rd, 2010 Interview in October issue of Variance
Magazine (Click to view) and
new videos
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September 15th, 2010 Police Sports Partnership Program in
Blanchester
I'm here at a Holiday Inn its about 2am and I just got
in. Today was a great day, started out with a 4 hour
drive into the town of Blanchester. The police here
hosted an awesome event to bring skateboarding to the
community and address their growing drug problem. Upon
arrival I was greeted by the mayor and the chief of
police. It was straight into doing my Skate Straight
event on the stage to the awaiting crowd. They were very
receptive and I felt I connected with them. After my
program it was on to sign some posters and then onto the
parking lot filled with skaters and good vibes. It really
was a unique community with very positive vibes. The
police bought a load of my book from the local bookstore
and gave them out to the kids, was an amazing gesture on
their part. The sun went down and the event closed with
photos and some final talks with the locals. My crew and
I went to the police headquarters. To my surprise we were
invited to join their police on duty for a night drive.
It was a great opportunity and we went for it. Click here to view the video
diary of this event. Epyon Royal Clothing did an ad with
me and can be seen on their site. Special thanks to Jenn
from CCSA and the Blanchester police depot. Till next
time! Doug
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August 30th, 2010 Willard Throwdown and Fremont
Just got back from a long weekend. We are at the end of
the summer, a truly great summer filled with lots of
events and lots of skating. Last week was the Willard
Throwdown skate comp that got rained out. Skated the
night before the event with sunshine and met some great
people. Went back to the hotel, woke up next morning to
rain. Lucky, Joe from the Hope Center had a mini ramp
housed in the gymnasium so it was on for a non-stop eight
hour skate session. Today I joined Level Up skateshop and
hosted a comp in the city of Fremont. It was all sunshine
and 97 degrees to skate in. It was good to see some
familiar faces from years ago. This summer was awesome,
the release of the book and doing the book store
signings, the skateparks, the skate camps, all the
events. Next couple of months I'm booked doing my Skate
Straight program. No slowing down here. Thanks for
everyone who came out to all the events, more to come! Doug
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July
18th, 2010 New Concord Skate Demo
It's about 4am and I just got home from a
series of events and being on the road. Today I woke up
in my hotel room and set out to the city of New Concord
for their grand opening of their skatepark. This was a
grass roots operation the kids started with the
community raising money and working the ropes to
get a park. The day began with a ribbon cutting with the
mayor and an interview with their local news station. It
was then on to host the skate comp. After the long day it
was on to the swimming pool right beside the park, was a
perfect ending to a great event. We are in the heart of
summer and its truly been an amazing series of events.
Many more to come! Thanks to everyone was came out. See
you soon! Doug
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July
8th, 2010 New Dunkees ad, Skate Straight, and Tom Green
We are at the start of July with lots of
events, Skate Straight is in full swing mainly doing
appearances at libraries. Check out the new Dunkees ad
for my new pro model. Go Skate Day was spent doing a demo
in the city of Willard, lots of fun and skated with the
Untitled Skate Team. I celebrated my 37th birthday a
couple days earlier and met Tom Green. Was cool to talk
old school and meet the man behind the madness. Many more
events to come! Doug
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June
18th, 2010 Barnes and Noble Book Signing
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June 12th, 2010 YMCA Skate Camp and PIAS In-Store Signing
in Connecticut
I'm at the Hartford Intl. airport waiting to board the
plane. This weekend was spent in Southing Connecticut.
We've labeled this the deja vu tour as this is my third
time coming back to Southington with the Play it Again
Sports crew. Lots of threes this summer. Got in late
Friday and was greeted by Janet and her family with PIAS.
After a good pizza and hotel check-in it was a good
night's rest to Saturday morning. Weather was on our side
till about noon and rain was inevitable. The day's demo
was set for YMCA Camp Sloper. With the rain a load of
skaters we opted to host a game of s.k.a.t.e under the
pavilion till the rain passed. Following that the group
gathered for my Skate Straight program. They were a
receptive audience with lots of questions. After some
chat with the skaters we went directly to the Play it
Again Sports store for the in-store signing. The weather
greatly improved and the parking lot became our skatepark
for a mini demo. Following I signed a load of posters in
the shop and it was good to see a lot of returning faces
from last year. All and all it was a great event with a
lot of happy people, mission accomplished. Lots of book
signings and demos ahead, till then! Doug
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June 4th, COSI and Skate Straight Program in Delaware
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