NEWS

Ruston Skatepark will hold 50/50 for Ruston at Ruston Farmers Market. 

Joey Slaughter, an associate professor in Louisiana Tech University’s School of Design, has curated a fundraising event for the Skatepark of Ruston. The vision of the skatepark is to create a safe, creative, art-centered park that improves our community and empowers youth.

“With community, regional and national support, and the funds from this fundraiser, we can help provide the community of Ruston a safe place where kids can skate,” Slaughter said. 

This fundraising event is an art show with over 150 skateboard decks designed by professional artists, musicians, and skaters from around the country and beyond. Included in these diverse groups are Louisiana Tech faculty and students from the Louisiana Tech School of Design. 

All funds raised will be used to build Ruston Skatepark, the project is in partnership with the City of Ruston and will provide the Ruston community with a new, unique space to gather and skate. 

“More than anyone, young people need to feel like they are recognized and appreciated by their communities,” Slaughter said. “In too many places skateboarders get the wrong message from local authorities who limit or outlaw skateboarding and ignore its inherent benefits. Skateparks are the solution.”

The event will take place on May 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Ruston Famers Market. Admission to the event is free and will have live music, painting, food and local art vendors with art and music memorabilia for purchase. 

All the skateboard decks are available for auction from May 1-13 at the auction’s site.