Big Sandy Sk8 Jam set for Saturday

Pearl Jam bass player Jeff Ament will be among skating enthusiasts in his native town, Big Sandy, Saturday for the sixth annual Big Sandy Pig Roast and Sk8 Jam.

The event is organized by Pep’s Bar in Big Sandy and the Montana Pool Service, a group started by Ament, Pep’s owner Josh Danruther said.

“We will have skaters coming from all over state, around the country a little bit, to hang out and skate all day,” Danruther said.

Ament funded the construction of the city’s skate park as well as others in communities including Missoula, Browning, Hays and Havre.

Danruther said Sk8 Jam began six years ago as a fundraiser to expand the park but has since become an event that draws skaters young and old.  

People will gather at the park at about noon. Danruther said pulled pork will be served for $5 a plate as people skate. Attendees will also be able to use the city pool near the skate park. Representatives of Montana State University-Northern’s KNMC radio station will be at the park throughout the day playing music.

Cash prizes will be awarded.

The Best Western, a band with members from Havre and Missoula, will play a live show at Pep’s Saturday at 9 p.m.

Aside from the food, the event is free of charge.