FROM TSAILE WITH AN APACHE SKATEBOARD MEMORY

Ammbreya came from Tsaile on the Navajo Nation to San Carlos AZ last week.
She had an Apache Skateboard and a story to tell.
Se said her friend gave it to her awhile back.
He told her she looked like the graphic design on it.
Her family came with her to San Carlos to pay last respects to a relative as well that day.
She asked me to sign it since I’m the designer.

Her friend won it at a skate comp we ( Apache Skateboards ) held in Window Rock in 2010 .
I remember him because he won 3rd place that day. From the looks of it he wore it down.
Razelle Benally directed a film that day which is now on YouTube titled:
“Apache Skateboards at Navajo Nation Fair 2010”

She then told me her friend that won the skate deck passed away in September.
Suicide is not painless. Nor is it ever an answer. This moved me because I remembered that day and the fun we all had holding the event and giving out prizes, tees and boards.
You never know the influence you have on a community until someone tells you.

We’ve decided then to hold another skate competition
on the Navajo Nation in his honor. Ammbreya suggests we do it when it warms up
in Spring at Chinle Skate Park. We love Dinetah.
Look for us soon.
If you want to support us,
let me know and drop us a line.
Thanks Ambreya, Apache Team and most of all Derrick.