They call them “ Developmental Dollars” – a competitive grant program offered by the Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council to fund creative short-term programs that reinforce health-building habits and help kids ages 10-17 to resist alcohol , tobacco and drugs . The East Hampton Skatepark Committee , a group of skateboarders who fought for a safe place to skate in town , and which even built their own ramps at the temporary summer park at Center School , has been awarded $ 1500 – the highest amount awarded – to fund their summer activities at the park . A BMX Riding Clinic and a Beginning Skateboarders course are the main events .

“ The Beginning Skateboarding program is free for participants , and will be run by three of our older teens , who have completed the ‘ PEP’ ( People Empowering People ) curriculum , a youthprogram designed to build on the strengths of teens through connections with community service , ” said adult facilitator for the group , Kim Fontaine . “ We have Ethan Giorgetti and Eric Gustafson , who are East Hampton High School students , and an East Hampton High grad , Christopher Daly , to teach the skateboarding course in August .

Fontaine is currently working on getting the approvals needed from the town and the Board of Education , prior to bringing in BMX activity . Fontaine is optimistic : “ We believe the town and school system will recognize the importance and value of providing safe and free activities for its youththrough the summer , and we anticipate their support for these events . ”