There’s been so many highlights of 2023, but mostly I’m just grateful to be able to keep building community while learning about fascinating women in skateboarding history by researching, interviewing and writing!
In review…
- Presented at the San Diego State University “Stoke Sessions” conference in San Diego, meeting & skating with Lynn Kramer, connecting with the powerhouse duo Betsy Gordon & Jane Rogers of the Smithsonian Museum, as well as fellow presenters Dr. Indigo Willing, Dr. Neftalie Williams, the legendary skater, D’iorr Greenwood, and so many amazing skateboarders in the academic scene! Oh yeah, and a selfie with Tony Hawk. Wheee!
- Invited to Washington, DC by the Smithsonian Museum for an amazing round-table discussion on skateboarding history, in anticipation of something very cool… I was slightly intimidated by the crew but once the banter got flowing, it was a blast!!! Shout out to Ted Barrow, Sean Cliver (who thoughtfully autographed and gave me his books!), Dr. Neftalie Williams, O.G. Jim Fitzpatrick, and of course, Betsy and Jane and the Smithsonian team!
- Landed a BOOK DEAL with ECW Press (thank you Jen Sookfong Lee!!) coming to bookstores hopefully in Fall 2025. For real!!
- In conversation with some wonderful people about a documentary (too soon to share out in detail).
- And, left one librarian role for another… now working with the British Columbia Library Association (BCLA) as their Professional Development Coordinator. Holy smokes!
There’s so many skateboarders to give shout outs to, but PJ McKenzie (aka Pam Judge) was a special interview, since this was my first “in-person” connection over in Kaslo, BC, for the Canada Day long weekend, and she happens to be Canada’s first National skateboarding champion!
Thanks so much everyone for making this a wonderful year. Also managed to squeeze in a bit of skateboarding, although today the park was still wet with puddles, worms, and covered in debris. Maybe tomorrow… This is 46! Woohoo!
Wishing you joy, love, adventure, and peace for 2024.
Womxn Skateboard History 