The parking lot of the Glen Cove Library was transformed for a few hours into an impromptu, scaled-down skatepark on Saturday, Aug. 2 as the American Ramp Company brought some of its modular ramps and other equipment to Glen Cove for a demonstration of one of the most popular sports among youngsters aged 7 and up. With arrangements made just a day or two prior, the enthusiastic skate crowd had no trouble getting the word out to one another, and dozens showed up to put the equipment to the test, as well as to find out what the City of Glen Cove has planned for the skater crowd and its desire for a safe and lawful place in which to skate. Currently, there are many more places where skating is not allowed than places it is, and the youth and their parents are anxious to give the sport its due, as opposed to its don'ts.

Mayor Ralph V. Suozzi was on hand to answer questions and, truth be told, to see his younger constituents have themselves a good time. He spoke of the skatepark history in the city, beginning in October 2007 when he met with 30 skateboarders and parents about a proposed park. "As skateboarding is a popular pastime among our youth and teens, [I] agreed to look into the possibility of building a local park, and in the meantime, a place to skate until such an area could be built," the mayor said. He discussed the idea with Glen Cove Parks & Recreation Director Darcy Belyea and visited parks in other municipalities. The city researched rules, regulations and costs, and looked into viable locations in the city. After a presentation to the city council, it was decided that the proposed park should be built next to Field 3 at John Maccarone Memorial (City) Stadium, where old, unused basketball courts now stand. "The location is ideal," said Mayor Suozzi, "as it is already part of an existing parks system, contains a hardened, fenced-in asphalt surface, and is situated near the center of downtown with no adjacent residential properties."

The mayor continued his research by contacting the Tony Hawks Foundation, an organization that supports the development of public skateboard parks, assists with grants and provides technical advice. Frank Venturino of the Nassau County Parks Department (and Glen Cove resident) also lent a hand, and it was he who informed the mayor about a mobile skateboard demo being done by American Ramp at the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club.

American Ramp came to Glen Cove two days later, set up ramps, steps and other paraphernalia for a test ride for local skateboarders. The young enthusiasts showed up with boards in hand, and helmets on heads, and those without proper protective headgear were loaned helmets by John Hunter, sales representative for American Ramp. Mr. Hunter explained that the equipment built by the company is all modular, and can be arranged to fit the size and configuration of the available space. Modulars also allow for an increase in, or replacement of, the various pieces to suit the community's needs. American Ramp has provided skateparks internationally, mostly to municipalities, but also for private industry. The company built 150 parks last year, including parks in Israel, Poland and Spain, as well as across the U.S.

Comments from the youngsters were succinct and enthusiastic. "Cool," said one boy, whose friend elaborated with "Very cool." One skater took the time to state, "It's good that the city is taking action for us...they really didn't have to. I'm glad they have concern for us not to be out getting into trouble." The big question on the minds of all was "When are we getting the park?" When you're young, red tape and funding are the last things on your mind.

The next step, said Mayor Suozzi, is the aforementioned funding. In addition to seeking grants, he is planning to have meetings with the skater population to develop opportunities for fundraising.

If the enthusiasm exhibited by the skaters on Saturday was any indication, there will be much conversation around the dinner table on the subject, and many promises of "I'll take out the garbage for the rest of my life" to engage parents in support of the development of the skatepark. However, from the comments of parents, it seems there should not be too much opposition (although they should still try to cut the garbage deal), as parents are as anxious as their children to have a safe place for skater boys and girls to hone their skills and just have an "awesome time."