A Big Night for Big John

As many of you already know, local skateboarder and Ridin' High owner, "Big John" Van Hazinga, was critically injured in a crash on Route 108 near Smuggler's Notch, less than a week after Ken Picard's story on Burlington's skate culture ran on the cover of Seven Days.

Big John's progress has been maddeningly slow and he is still in a coma. But his family and friends remain impossibly positive in the face of the tragedy. Reading their accounts of his progress and the ensuing emotional strain is nothing short of heart-wrenching. It's also strangely uplifting.

This Monday, the Higher Ground Ballroom plays host to a benefit show, appropriately titled, "A Benefit For Big John." The evening will feature performances by some of Van Hazinga's favorite local acts, including Turkey Bouillon Mafia, Seth Yacovone, DJ A-Dog, and DJ Nickel B of Itation Sound. The event will also serve as the premier for skateboard filmmaker Travis Card's new short, "Family Tree."

When Ken's story ran, it was paired with a web feature filmed by Stuck In Vermont vlogger, Eva Sollberger and prominently features Big John. Here it is, with tunes by The Cush:

 

Best wishes to John and his family and friends.

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This is the first i've heard of John's injury - that's really sad; he spent some time working with me when i worked at Recycle North and i always found him to be a really optimistic, friendly guy... i hope he recovers soon :(