On Sunday, July 24, the once frozen grounds of the Alex and Ani Center will be filled with obstacles, and for a different kind of skating. We’re talking boards, not blades. The one day set up will be open to the public, requesting a $10 donation at the gate. It's expected to be the biggest skateboarding event to hit the state, featuring a demo by A-list professional skateboarders and a chance to meet them. The Vans skateboard team, Peter Ramondetta, Mike Vallely and local legend Donny Barley are only a few names joining our local skating community to ”Roll For Rob.”
The event is one of multiple skate benefits that have been held to raise funds for local skater Rob Pontes and his family. The husband and father of two was diagnosed with ALS and his treatments are ongoing and expensive. Before his diagnosis, if Rob wasn’t traveling for work, he was skateboarding or playing with his daughters. As the disease progressed, the only wheels he’s been able to ride are on his wheelchair. For any passionate skater it’s a dream crusher, and as a family man it’s only more devastating.
For years, Rob’s work has benefited a large number businesses, providing support to the East Coast skate scene and now the community is returning the favor. This event, hosted by Civil Skate Shop, will have a variety of entertainment including a public skate jam, contests and prizes, merchandise tents, a live DJ and more, with all profits and donations going directly to the Pontes family. “He’s a really great guy – a genuine, honest and thoughtful person. So I’m not surprised to see this huge show of support,” said long-time friend Rob Asselin of Civil Skate Shop.
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