On July 25th, 2025, Pocatello celebrated the official opening of the Optimist Skatepark — the culmination of over a decade of tireless advocacy, vision, and community collaboration.
For many, it was a celebration. For me, it was something more: a deeply personal milestone. This project has been at the heart of my work for over ten years — as a skateboarder, a community advocate, and the founder of Deckadence Board Shoppe, Pocatello’s home for skateboard and snowboard culture.
Behind the Scenes: How the Park Came to Be
When I first started pushing for a new skatepark, I had no real roadmap — just a deep love for skateboarding and a belief that this community deserved better. So I looked for ways to get involved in local government. That led me to apply for a volunteer seat on the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, where I hoped to channel my energy into real advocacy for the skaters of Pocatello.
Over the years, and through two different Parks & Rec superintendents, I watched as other community projects moved forward while ours stayed stalled. I met with Mayor Blad repeatedly, explaining what a modern skatepark would mean for youth, families, and the future of this city. And still — nothing.
I sat through year after year of meetings, watching other groups advocate for their passions and see their visions come to life. Story walks, disc golf courses — even more disc golf courses — all found their way into City Parks, often with those communities fundraising to make it happen.
But a concrete skatepark is cost-prohibitive in a way most park amenities aren’t. It typically requires major grants or municipal investment. Yet, the skate community was repeatedly asked to raise the money ourselves.
Funding and Strategic Leadership
The real turning point came when the City allocated $500,000 to pickleball courts — without youth input or a broader discussion of equity. I spoke up: if there was $500K for pickleball, there needed to be $500K for a new skatepark. Councilmember Brent Nichols (no relation to the Chevy Nichols family) then identified unused money from a separate project that could be applied to the skatepark, fast-tracking the city’s support.
Shortly afterward, federal AARPA funds — originally allocated for another purpose but required to be spent by the end of 2025 — provided the bulk of the remaining funding. Combined with generous community donations in memory of Chevy Nichols and additional funds raised through a local nonprofit I helped promote, we finally had the resources to make the skatepark a reality. We are also deeply grateful to Anne Butler, Parks Director, for her guidance and support throughout this process.
Supporting this effort, a local nonprofit formed in 2014 following discussions I initiated provided a formal mechanism to channel community energy into fundraising. Years prior, I had been hosting skate events, donating prizes, and MCing contests — building community engagement while keeping the focus on the long-term goal of a new skatepark. When a formal nonprofit became necessary to secure donations and grants, I asked Mr. Van Etten to take on the public role, ensuring a clear separation from my business. He has since managed and operated the organization, while these events continued to serve as community-building and fundraising opportunities aligned with the park’s mission.
Breaking Ground
With funding, community support, and organizational structure in place, the pieces finally came together. After years of advocacy, planning, and persistence — we broke ground.
“D’Beau” Darin Black, City Leaders, community volunteers and the Chevy Nichols family Brandon and Stacey breaking ground at Optimist Skatepark in Pocatello, March 21st, 2025.
“D’Beau” Darin Black using a skateboard deck to ceremonially break ground at Optimist Skatepark, Pocatello, March 21st, 2025.
“D’Beau” Darin Black and Mr. Van Etten holding shovels at the groundbreaking for the Optimist Skatepark in Pocatello.
Ribbon Cutting & Reflections
On July 25th, the moment became reality. Watching the community gather — families, friends, longtime skaters, and newcomers alike — I felt the culmination of years of work. It was a proud, humbling moment to be part of a project that will serve generations of skaters in Pocatello.
The crowd was brimming with excitement; many faces I recognized, and so many more inspired by the endless possibilities a new skatepark creates. I knew it was real the moment I made my first drop-in to the bowl — stoked to be the first of many who will enjoy this space.
Below are highlights from the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including videos and photos that capture this milestone moment for the skate community
Celebrating a milestone: “D’Beau” Darin Black, Councilmember Brent Nichols, parents of Chevy Nichols and community members at the Optimist Skatepark opening.
Ribbon Cutting Coverage
KPVI News
Local News 8
My Ribbon-Cutting Speech
Full text of “D’Beau” Darin Black’s speech at the Optimist Skatepark ribbon-cutting ceremony, Pocatello, July 25, 2025.
Full text of page 2 of “D’Beau” Darin Black’s speech at the Optimist Skatepark ribbon-cutting ceremony, Pocatello, July 25, 2025.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy for the Community
Seeing the Optimist Skatepark come to life is a deeply meaningful milestone, not just for me but for the entire Pocatello skate community. This project represents years of dedication, advocacy, and collaboration — from countless community events and volunteer efforts to city leadership, council support, and nonprofit fundraising. I’m proud to have played a role in nurturing these partnerships and helping keep the vision alive, and I’m equally grateful to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and resources. Together, we’ve created a lasting space that will inspire and serve future generations of skaters, strengthen our community, and celebrate the joy and creativity of skateboarding in Pocatello.
Seeing this park come to life has been an honor and a privilege. It will leave a lasting legacy for Pocatello’s youth, a space for creativity, athleticism, and community — and a reminder that tenacity, foresight, and collaboration can turn vision into reality. -DB
Optimist Skatepark Grand Opening – July 25 in Pocatello
The wait is over! Pocatello’s Optimist Skatepark Grand Opening is officially happening on Friday, July 25 2025 at 12:15 PM, located at 972 N. 7th Ave.
This brand-new public skatepark represents more than just a fresh slab of concrete. It’s the result of over a decade of community effort, vision, and local advocacy—due in part to “D’Beau” Darin Black of Deckadence Board Shoppe, who pushed for this project tirelessly, even taking the idea to Mayor Blad years ago.
🎶 Deckadence will be on-site running the sound system and DJing the event, keeping the energy up as the City of Pocatello leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside “D’Beau” Darin Black (Deckadence), the Nichols family, and other community supporters. Skating kicks off immediately after.
🛹 A Unique Park Built for Our Town
This is the first bowl-style skate feature ever built in Pocatello, and it’s already earning attention. One standout feature is the Chevy Memorial Ledge, honoring a local skater and funded by the Nichols family. The “IDAHO” over-vert section and diamond grind coping partially funded by the local nonprofit supporting this build, bringing a unique and authentic touch to the park. The design idea for the Idaho feature was contributed by D’Beau, made possible by community donations to the local nonprofit supporting this build.
“It’s not just concrete and coping—it’s the foundation of the next generation of skaters.” — “D’Beau” Darin Black, Certified Skateboard Instructor & Owner of Deckadence
Optimist Skatepark is a public space, built to last and grow with our skate community. Let’s show the city we know how to treat it right and keep it solid for future riders.
🎓 Private Skateboard Lessons Now Available
Whether you’re just starting out or want to level up, Deckadence offers private one-on-one skateboard lessons, taught by the area’s only certified skateboard instructor. Lessons take place in our indoor training facility, and all gear is provided.
✅ We also accept Idaho Empowering Parents Grant funds. 📞 Call 208-220-6750 or click here to learn more.
📍 Grand Opening Event Details
📅 Friday, July 25
🕛 Ribbon Cutting at 12:15 PM
📍 Optimist Skatepark – 972 N. 7th Ave (Ross Park)
🎶 Music by Deckadence Board Shoppe
🛹 Community Skating After Ceremony
This is a huge milestone for the Pocatello skate scene. Bring your board, bring your friends, and bring the hype. Let’s kick this off right—and help keep Optimist a space we can be proud of for years to come. 💪
Official City of Pocatello flyer promoting the Optimist Skatepark Grand Opening on July 25 at 12:15 PM.
June’s heating up, and the skate energy in Pocatello is real. Here’s everything you need to know about Pocatello Skatepark Updates, upcoming events and opportunities to ride.
🛹 Go Skate Day Celebration – June 21 at Ross Park
Mark your calendar for Friday, June 21st from 4–7PM at the old Ross Park skatepark.
Hosted by Deckadence Board Shoppe and S.E.I.S.A., this year’s Go Skate Day celebration brings the community together for:
🎤 Sound System & MC’ing by Deckadence
🍕 Food by @BraizenPizza
🎁 Raffles & giveaways
🕵️♂️ Scavenger hunt for the kids
🔥 Skate comps and fun for all ages
Pull up, get hyped, and help us celebrate the future of skateboarding in Pocatello!
🏗 Pocatello Skatepark Updates – July 4th Opening Projected – Check back for grand opening date
The new Pocatello skatepark is taking shape. The bowl has been poured, transitions are sculpted, and flatground is laid. The crew from Artisan Skateparks went full throttle to get us to this stage.
Next steps include drainage and irrigation work to be completed by the City of Pocatello. While the park may look finished, it’s not ready to ride just yet. We’re asking the community to be patient and respectful—riding before it’s officially opened could cause damage or delays.
📅 If all goes according to plan, the skatepark will officially open the weekend of July 4th.
💬 “Let the concrete cure!” We’re working closely with the City, Skate Idaho, and Artisan to make sure the park opens safely and on time.
Special thanks to:
The City of Pocatello for funding this long-overdue project
The Nichols family, whose generous donation in memory of their son Chevy added some incredible features in his honor
S.E.I.S.A. for their relentless efforts
🚫 This park took a long time to make happen—don’t mess it up by skating it early. If we take care of it and show our gratitude, we increase the chances of a Phase Two in the future.
Our Wizard Stix Sessions are relaxed, all-level group rides to keep you pushing, rolling, and connecting.
🛹 All skateboard types welcome—longboards, cruisers, and standard setups 📍 Location changes weekly – check our Instagram Stories or Facebook page every Tuesday or Wednesday or call 208-220-6750 to get the latest meetup spot.
These rides are all about confidence, community, and good vibes. No pressure—just pull up and ride.
📚 Private Skateboard Lessons in Pocatello – Now Booking
Skate lessons are back and open for booking! We offer private, one-on-one coaching in our indoor facility with all safety gear and boards provided.
✅ Taught by the only certified skateboard instructor in the Pocatello area ✅ Nearly a decade of experience teaching youth ✅ Safe, supportive environment ✅ Discounts on complete skateboard setups for students ✅ We accept Idaho Empowering Parents Grant money – call for details
Whether you’re a beginner or ready to step up your game, Deckadence Board Shoppe is the home of proper setups and proper progression.
Deckadence Launches Our First Fucking Awesome Drop – Featuring Mark Gonzales’ Class Photo
New brand. Special drop. Skate history in your hands.
Deckadence Board Shoppe is proud to announce our very first drop from Fucking Awesome Skateboards, featuring the rare Mark Gonzales Class Photo Deck — a Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck release for the books.
Who is FA, Who is Jason Dill and who is mark Gonzales?
Fucking Awesome (FA) is a brand born from raw creativity, street-level grit, and high art. Founded by Jason Dill and Anthony Van Engelen in 2014, FA quickly made its mark with bold graphics, unconventional ads, and a true-to-skateboarding spirit.
Jason Dill is a name every real skateboarder knows. Growing up in Huntington Beach, turning pro by 17, and becoming a legend through Alien Workshop classics like Photosynthesis and Mind Field, Dill’s story is skateboarding itself: fast, messy, brilliant, and unforgettable. Today, he brings that same chaotic beauty to FA, making it one of the most respected names in skateboarding and streetwear worldwide.
About Mark Gonzales Widely considered the godfather of modern street skateboarding, Mark Gonzales — aka “The Gonz” — revolutionized skateboarding in the late ’80s and early ’90s. His fearless style, inventive tricks, and creative spirit inspired generations of skaters to think outside the lines. From Video Days to his ongoing art and influence, Gonz’s legacy lives on both in skateboarding and the broader world of art and culture.
Why This Drop is Special: Mark Gonzales’ Class Photo
This isn’t just any FA drop. This Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck release features a special graphic — a real class photo of Mark Gonzales, “The Gonz,” one of the most influential skateboarders of all time. Gonz changed the way people thought about skateboarding — with style, humor, and a fearless spirit.
Mark Gonzales, immortalized: The actual class photo used for the new Fucking Awesome Gonz Deck, available now at Deckadence.
“And now, a word from Dill…
When I was 9 my family moved into a house across the street from where Ed Templeton lived, on Alabama Street in Huntington Beach. On that one small block lived so many skateboarders, all these teenage skate dudes, they were all so good, I was a little kid, I sucked, they were mean to me, but I got better at skating and it seemed that the better I got the less they would pick on me. I listened intently to everything they said, I mimicked what they did and they would get mad at me and tell me to stop mimicking them. The one person they talked about the most and who they also mimicked the most was Mark Gonzales, I heard them talk about him so much before I ever even knew what he looked like. Gonz. They talked about this person they called Gonz. I finally saw a picture of him in a magazine and that year as I got more and more into skating, I started putting pictures of Mark on my bedroom wall that I shared with my older brother Chris. His side had pictures of The Style Council, The Who, The Clash and pictures from the movie Quadrophenia. I am now 11 years old, fully submerged in skateboarding, fuck G.I. Joe, fuck Transformers, I didn’t like the kids at my school, I skated and hung out with this teenage group of skateboarders and I would bash my face into the ground, get knocked out and break bones and it was all so epic. I still watched cartoons but other than that, I felt as though I was no longer a child, more like a feral animal.
One evening, I went with my Mother to the grocery store, my poor Ma worked such long hours, my Dad was in jail…I knew she was upset by this feral animal that had replaced her little boy who now only hung out with teenagers. I loved my Ma, but I know the way I now looked and behaved freaked her out, even without her saying much of anything about it…We turned down one of the aisles and for some reason I looked back as we were turning and walking not more than a few feet behind us was Mark Gonzales. I can’t really articulate what I felt when I saw him, I suppose I was just dumbfounded, it was him, the guy all the teenage skate dudes idolized and I now did as well, that’s Gonz, that’s my idol. I saw him one more time in another part of the store, I saw him, he saw me. I’m pretty sure he knew I knew who he was, and that was it. I saw Gonz.
Over the next few years I would see Mark skating at Huntington Beach High School, Mesa View, at that same Ralph’s but in the parking lot skating the curbs, I was there skating too, I got to witness him do things that were never on film, I was so lucky to be alive and understand that I was in the presence of greatness. A greatness that would have a tremendous effect on me and the one person with the biggest impact and influence on my career in skateboarding. When I first saw him he was only a teenager, trip out. If an 11 year old me knew that one day I would be making a skateboard put out by my very own company with a teenage Mark on it, Haaaaa, my tiny mind would have exploded…I’m very appreciative of Mark and I am so very happy to make this board available to people that have also been influenced by the man that I now call my friend. Mark Gonzales.”
To have Gonz’s class photo printed across a full line of decks is a rare tribute — a true collector’s item for riders and fans alike.
Full Size Run — Limited Quantities Available
We have the Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck available in a full size range. Whether you skate them or hang them on your wall, you’ll want to act fast. FA decks always move quickly — and this drop is extra special.
Available now in-store and online. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.
“At Deckadence, every new brand we bring in is chosen with heart. FA isn’t just a new name on the wall — it’s a celebration of skateboarding’s past, present, and future. We’re proud to make this connection with our local scene.” -DB
Ready to Roll?
Get your hands on the Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck — and own a piece of skateboarding history. See you soon at Deckadence.
The Push Behind The Park: Our Radio Interview with BYU-Idaho Radio
This week, I had the opportunity to speak with BYU-Idaho Radio about something close to my heart—Pocatello’s new skatepark at Optimist Park.
We talked about how it all began. Since around 2012, I’ve been advocating for a real, permanent skatepark. Not just for myself—but for every skater in this community who deserves a safe, fun place to ride.
Skateboarding shaped my life. I’ve been skating since middle school, and over the years, it became much more than a hobby. It taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of community. That same spirit drives everything we do at Deckadence Board Shoppe.
During the interview, we discussed the decade-long push for this project. From community meetings to city conversations, I never stopped showing up. I kept going because I knew how much this park would mean to local skaters—young and old.
The new skatepark isn’t just a collection of ramps. It’s a space for growth, connection, and self-expression. Kids need that. Skaters of all ages need that. Pocatello needs that.
We also touched on the role of local shops. Deckadence was born because I saw a need. Big-box stores can’t build culture. But a true local shop? It supports the scene, invests in the future, and makes sure the next generation feels seen and supported.
If you’ve ever wondered why we care so much about the scene—or how something like a skatepark gets built from the ground up—this interview pulls back the curtain.
