By Dan Israeli
Residents attended a special dedication ceremony at the park by the recreation center off National Boulevard and the bay. The newly renovated 9,600 square-foot space includes brand new equipment, including a half pipe and rails, along with repaved asphalt and lighting.
To pay for the project, a youth-based committee called "Students Skate for Scott" was able to collect $99,000 in the past two years through several means. The campaign began when Reilly's classmates decided to memorialize their late friend in a most fitting manner, by repairing and dedicating the skate park he loved so much.
Christine Murphy, secretary for the city Department of Public Works, was approached by two of Reilly's friends, Ricky Brown and Ryan Uhllendalh, about the plan in 2005. "It was an excellent idea for many reasons," Murphy said. "In addition to it being a touching tribute, the best way to keep children out of trouble is to keep them busy with things like sports."
From that point on, the youth-based committee began raising funds through t-shirt and hat sales, printed with illustrations drawn by Reilly. The group also held a "Skate for Scott" competition and a poker tournament to help the cause.
The City of Long Beach contributed $37,000 from its Community Development Block Grant, which it received through County Executive Thomas Suozzi and Legislator Denise Ford. A $7,000 contribution was made to the committee from the 2005 Cajal J. Scott Surfcasting Tournament, which is held annually in honor of another Long Beach resident that passed away from cancer.
In addition to the $12,000 raised by the students, an additional $25,000 was secured by Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg, through a grant from the NYS Office of Parks and Recreation. Another $25,000 was added by the county, to bring the grand total to $99,000.
"The people of this city utilize the wonderful resources we have in recreation," said Weisenberg, who spoke at the dedication ceremony. "Our greatest resource has proven to be our people, and in this case, our children. We dedicate this park to a young man who really was a symbol of what Long Beach is all about."
City Council member Denise Tangney was also in attendance, and spoke of the great power in communicating with young people to find acceptable alternatives to dangerous activities. "This was a long time coming - a place to hang out where Long Beach kids can be safe," Tangney said. "There needs to be even more input of what kids want. This is just the beginning."
As young skaters tested out the new equipment, attendees also ate hot dogs and watched local band Raze perform songs. The teenage band dedicated the Incubus song "Wish You Were Here" to Reilly, a youngster who had a big impact on his peers. Margaret Medrano, spokeswoman of Students Skate for Scott, was one of those close to him.
"It was a long process, with lots of hours put in," said Medrano, who in addition to her work with the committee, made several trips to City Council meetings. "It's an honor to say I was a part of it. We hope to raise even more money, to add other additions like a roof and vending machines. It doesn't stop here."
The park dedication was a touching tribute for Reilly's parents, Pat and Ashling, who were taken aback by the community's efforts. "There's no words to express it, it's unbelievable," she said. "To put something together so spectacular in honor of him, I'm shocked. The Long Beach community is so full of spirit and kindness."
Pat Reilly, who moved his family to Long Beach over a decade ago, was impressed to see his son's friends take the initiative, and create a memory that will last for a lifetime. "It's unbelievable," he said. "This wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for the kids. They spoke out, and us adults were wise enough to listen."
Comments about this story? DMiller@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 213.
