NETWORK SKATE

10 FROM BACK WHEN: PETER WATKINS

2012-02-21T09:44:00.000-08:00

On this episode of 10 FROM BACK WHEN: we have a few clips I filmed of Peter Watkins between the years 2006-2009. Peter is one of the most humble rippers out there. Super stoked he turned pro a few years back, it was very well deserved. Hope you enjoy. - Shockus
networkskate.com

REWIND: DAVE COYNE 2000 EDIT

2012-02-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

On this episode of REWIND: We have an edit of DAVE COYNE from 2000, featuring some footage that was later used in TACTICAL MANUAL. This had never been seen before , we hope you enjoy! - Shockus

ADDITIONAL FILMING:
JIM KAPPEL
MARK NICKELS

Behind the Brush: Brian Clinebell Quick Three & Interview

2012-02-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

Brian Clinebell has a Quick Three for the debut of our Behind the Brush series. Check out his Guest Artist board available now from Lurkville.

Filmed & Photography by Tyrone Taylor
Edited & Interview by Jeffrey Halleran
Music by The Kabbs

Sitting down to some post-park session pizza at Luigi's in Golden Hill, Brian Clinebell mentioned he was doing a Guest Series board graphic for Lurkville. We talked about doing a web segment on it with skating & art one day, and that day is here now.

Network is proud to share with you our first Behind the Brush segment, with this Quick Three and the following interview from Virginia native turned San Diego resident rockin' ripper artist dude. Watch for the band he plays in, The Kabbs and keep an eye out for Clinebell's art. Support local arts and pick up Brian's Lurkville guest board, which he explains in the following interview.- JH

Who are you?
My name is Brian Clinebell. I am a Virginia native but now I live in San Diego, Ca.

What do you have there in your hand?
In my hand is the new Guest Artist Lurkville board that I designed. It's a mixed media piece.

nollie bsts photo: Taylor

How did you get asked to do a board for Lurkville?
Tyrone Taylor (one of the owners of Lurkville) was talking about doing a guest artist board each season. I had been helping Tyrone with setting up the graphics for Lurkville for a while so I ended up getting this museum show in my hometown in Virginia(March 2012 at William King in Abingdon, Va) and I asked Tyrone if I could get some boards done for my show and thats kinda how it happen. Tyrone and I have been friends for a while through skating, music, worked together at Pacific Drive and working together on other events like Johnny Rad Fest he has done. Its just really rad to be part of it. Really stoked!

4.What's the inspiration behind the design of this board?
The graphic was inspired by the poster art that I have been doing for my band The KABBs. The art is inspired by old album art from the 60s and vintage imagery I find.

Where can more of your work be seen & what's next for you?
You can check out my work at brianclinebell.com It has a mix of graphic design and fine art. What's next on my plate would be just working on my Museum show the next two months and help Lurkville out on graphics and ideas. Just keep creating in generally. Get your Lurk ON!

brianclinebell.com
lurkville.com
thekabbs.com

HOW TO'S DAY: TYRONE OLSON BACK LIP

2012-01-31T09:39:00.000-08:00

On this installment of HOW TO'S DAY: OG Tyrone Olson gives you a little insight into back lips. Powered by: networkskate.com

BRANDON TURNER: 10 From Back When

2012-01-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

On this episode of 10 FROM BACK WHEN: We have 10 bangers from San Diego's own Brandon Turner. Brandon is by far one of the most gifted skaters I have ever had the privilege of filming. Here is an interesting fact: while he was riding up to the Carlsbad gap, he kinda messes up pushing and I almost stopped recording because my tape was running low, I thought he was gonna turn back and try it again. Luckily I kept recording because that is by far one of the gnarliest tricks I have ever filmed. - shockus

Rewind: Zero New Blood Footy Tape 2005

2012-01-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

On this episode of Rewind: We have an original transfer tape with 4 minutes of raw footage that was giving to Zero, for use in their video, "New Blood". The tape features a bunch of James Brockman and Tommy Sandoval clips, also a trick or two of from Garrett Hill and Ryan Bobier. A lot of the footage was in the video and some of it has never been seen before. Check it out and enjoy,
-shockus

NETWORKing with Typical Culture

2012-01-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

On this episode of NETWORKING: we met up with the Typical Culture crew as they celebrated their three year anniversary at W.S.V.T. Check out all the highlights form their mashing contest here, featuring: Rayborn, Gregson, Remillard,Div,Mattson and the Brandon Pearlson, who walked away with the best trick and some loot.

Behind the Brand: Lurkville Skateboards

2012-01-02T03:30:00.000-08:00

Photo - Jesse Corbett

In the middle of an economic crisis, while most humans were scrambling without a fucking clue, terrified of who-knows-what, three dudes got together and started a skateboard company. The fact that people were buying these skateboards during a time that most were doing all sorts of wacky, and arguably “creative” things to simply save a buck or two is pretty significant. Personally, I still remember the first time I saw one of these Lurkville boards hanging in Allied Board Shop in Escondido and thought to myself, “It’s about time something new and original came out.” I knew nothing about the company, who was involved, or where it came from but the graphics made a huge impact on me, and something about it just caught my attention. These dudes are keeping skateboarding raw and fun; a vicious cycle. - Blakely

Interview with Lurkville Co-Owner Tyrone Taylor by Brian Blakely photos courtesy of Lurkville

When did you start the company and how long was it an idea before it actually went down?

We (Lurkville) started November of 2010.

What made you guys want to start a skateboard company in the middle of an economic crisis? Would you say your optimism paid off?

Wow, never really thought of the economic crisis when we started Lurkville. We knew people were hurting but never really crossed our minds. We would say that our optimism did pay off.

Have you had any experience running a company before? For example, did you take classes at a community college or anything to get down some basics, or did you just charge it?

Yes, Julian had experience running a company. In the mid-90s he had a company called Toybox Skateboards. During that time he took some classes, but did not feel like they helped him. So, he just charged it.

What are a few things you guys have learned from starting your own company? How have things changed since day one to right now?

We’ve learned that trying to run a company out of a garage is not cost effective because shipping costs are a big issue and having terms with shops is really hard as a small company because you’re always waiting to get paid to be able to produce more product. Luckily we’ve grown out of the garage to being distributed by Antics International.

Did you guys have any financial backers or was it all out of your pocket?

Each of used our own money. Julian sold his low rider and David and I put money up from are savings. We all looked at it as investment that may or may not pay off, but it was just something worth taking a risk on.

How has funding the company straight out of your pockets affected your everyday living?

As for affecting day-to-day life... Really it was just a little less food and rent money off the table. No biggie!

Word. Why do you think kids should support a company like Lurkville?

We are out there skating in the streets with the kids. Does not matter how old or young they are. We are skaters too, and support the skateboarding community.

What do you feel you guys are doing differently than other companies in the industry these days?

Our graphics and theme behind Lurkville is something new we’d like to think. Also our team is a big help. They are “skateboarder’s skateboarders” and they have good attitudes and personalities that reflect the brand when they’re out in the streets. No real gimmicks with the guys like so many other companies out there. We just let their skating to the talking.

Who helps you manage Lurkville?

There are three of us: Myself, David, and Julian and we all do our part to manage Lurkville.

photo - Jesse Corbett

Where do you guys live?

We all live in the North Park area.

Is Lurkville sold across the country or can we only find it in shops here around San Diego County?

When we first started, Lurkville was only available in San Diego, but we got in to other cities and states real fast.

Dolan Stearns ollie to 50-50 photo - Switalski

That promo was raw. When is the video going to drop?

I do think we have one of the best teams out there on the underground circuit: Barrio Mike, BK, Dolan Stearns, David Cobb, and Adrian Gephart. These guys put in100% when they skate. As for a date for the video, we’d like to try to have something out by August. It all depends on if everyone keeps getting footy. We really don’t want a typical new video with HD shots of leaves blowing and super slow mos every other trick. If you have noticed by our promos, we want the video and the skating to be raw. Not an overdone production that the skating gets lost in. The video will be 100% VX footy.

Sick, what about a Lurkville demo?

I hope so, but the guys like to be out there with everyone else skating. Every time the team gets together it’s a demo, just not at a park. So if you’re lucky enough to happen to be at a spot the dudes are all at, you will get a good demo.

case in point, this place got thrashed; Adrian Gephart nabs a BS NG photo - Switalski

and Dolan Stearns snags a FS SMITH photo - Switalski

Are there any riders hiding in the shadows of the Lurkville flow program that we should keep our eyes open for?

Yes, we have a couple of guys that we flow. Hopefully we will be adding more Lurkers soon, since we now have some backing. There are so many kids who rip right now that it is easy to just grab any of them up, but for us the main thing is that the skater is cool and easy to get along with.

Jason's really truckin' LV! style on this crooks out in the wild photo - Switalski

Canyon Kelly foot plantin' down a set - photo Levas

Canyon Kelly switchin' it up, gettin his hands dirty with a invert - photo Levas

flow Lurker Andrew Norris is pushing on LV! planks in SF

How would you describe the theme behind the brand and graphics? Will you always keep this same feel to the brand or do you plan to branch out and get creative in other forms of art and graphics?

When we first started Lurkville we had 50s and 60s culture in mind from the music to pinups/burlesque. The music back then was raw, and the youth was looking for something new. Something we felt skateboarding needed now.

Do you think a company needs to have a general theme to survive, or do you feel that's what gets kids jaded on brands: seeing the same thing over and over. Basically, do you feel change is necessary or should you always stick to your original roots?

Brand recognition is huge with us. All board companies are different, some don't need themes, and some do. As for Lurkville, we have a theme. We’re not saying that we are always going to put out pin-up graphics, but we will stick to our roots which is inspired by the youth culture of the 50s and 60s. So yes, change is good, but always stick to your roots.

Are you working with any freelance artists or do you have a designer doing the graphics, etc., DIY style?

Yes, we have had a few different designers throughout the year. The artists that we have worked with are Alyasha Owerka-Moore, Brian Clinebell and Bert Custodio. We have also come up with some designs.

photo - Taylor

Why is BK so gnarly?

You really can't ask why! He just is! It has to do with a magnifying glass.

photo - Taylor

Any closing thoughts, or anything you'd like to add?

Skateboarding is about having fun. Never forget that!

Shout outs and thank yous:

We would like to thank Julian’s girlfriend, Sara, David’s girlfriend, Jeanna, My wife, Ashley, and the rest of our friends and family for all of their support. We would also like to thank Alyasha Owerka-Moore. Aly had a big part in the beginning of Lurkville. We would also like to thank Bert Custodio, Zack Dowdy, Austin Mayer, Taylor Lewis, Brixton, everyone at Network Skate, Shockus, Lurkville team, Mike Patten, Jesse Prim, Antics Intl and all the shops that back us! A huge thanks to Brian Clinebell who, without his help, we would have never gotten any catalogs, ads or decks done.

Hit these dudes up!

Website:
lurkville.com

Facebook:
facebook.com/lurkvilleusa

Instagram:
@lurkville

UREVIEW: LURKVILLE "King of Hearts" DECK REVIEW

2011-12-23T10:13:00.000-08:00

On this episode of UREVIEW: Lurkville handed over one of their new "King Of Hearts" decks to networkskate.com fan Dave Mckinney. Dave put the board to the test for a week, peep his review of the board above. Filmed by GC

Do you want a chance to get some free product and review it for networkskate.com? Follow us on facebook.com/networkskate for a chance to be the next UREVIWER !

NETWORKing with ANTHONY AMEDORI

2011-12-17T11:16:00.000-08:00

In this NETWORKING segment we are proud to present an interview with ANTHONY AMEDORI, a.k.a. "Walter Rhum" from the now cult classic film, MACHOTAILDROP. Aside from his work on the big screen, Anthony has been shredding tough for some time now and we're happy to get a chance to rap with him here. If you haven't seen MACHOTAILDROP yet, keep your eyes peeled for a screening near you and watch for more rad ripping from Anthony Amedori in the near future. text by JEFFREY HALLERAN skate photos by RYAN YOUNG portrait excerpts from MACHOTAILDROP

JH-How did this upcoming Machotaildrop screening in Long Beach come together?
AA: To be completely honest I have no idea. I just saw the flyer on the éS site. I'm just grateful that it's out there and people are able to see it.

Where and when is it going to be exactly?
It's tonight,9-12 in Long Beach, CA at the Art Theater of Long Beach at 2025 East 4th street.

Do you keep in touch with Vanessa Guide a.k.a. 'Sophie' or anyone else from the cast of Machotaildrop?
Yeah I do. Vanessa was just in town and I got to hang out with her for a bit. I haven't really talked to anyone else that much, kind of been doing my own thing lately.

Did you get to bring home any keepsake items from the set of the movie, costumes or anything like that?
Yeah I have alot of stuff. I have my hometown outfit, Walter's bag, a bunch of medals, Walter's board, Machotaildrop boards. We cut out a scene where we made a Frank Gerwer nose and we molded it on me. I have that. Frank Gerwer's nose is in my closet.

How would one aspire to "smell like a pro", what would be your best advice?
Take a bath.

Have you watched Harvey Spannos before? Was that part of your homework for researching the role of Walter Rhum?
Yeah of course I've seen Harvey Spannos. He has a cameo in the film Machotaildrop as well.

ANTHONY with his homies at the MACHOTAILDROP Upland CA screening

Last time we met you were on crutches at the Upland screening of Machotaildrop, how did you get hurt?
I broke the tibia in my ankle for the 3rd time in 3 years. I came down like a hot pocket and my ankle pretty much just gave out on me. It's not as bad as all the others so i should be back in about 3-4 months.

What have you been doing to stay busy since your injury went down?
I've been trying to stay at home as much as possible because I'm always out skating. Spending time with my family and my dogs. I still go skate and be moral support. I like going to Brooklyn Projects on Melrose and hang out with those guys and watch people shred the ramp. Good times over there.

When did you get involved with Ashbury? Who's behind that sunglasses company and when did they originate?
Nima Jalali and Lance Hakker. We also have a big snowboard team and we make goggles. All my friends ride for Ashbury and are good friends with Nima. One day my friend Cho Pak said Nma was down to put me on and asked if I wanted to go down there the next day. So we did and he started flowing me and I've been riding for Ashbury for over a year now.

NOLLIE FRONT FEEBLE, EAGLE ROCK CA, PHOTOS-RYAN YOUNG CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

Can you tell the story about when you were trying to barge your way into the Flip video premiere a while back?
It's not that crazy. They were being real dicks about tickets and stuff. I finally get in and I guess the security guard saw me, gave me the boot. I waited outside for a while, switched my shirt around and got in seconds before the intro.

ANTHONY at the Flip video from the Michael Burnett's Burnout Blog on THRASHERMAGAZINE.COM

Who usually wins in a game of skate between you and your brother, and what's his name?
His name is John Patrick Amedori. I'd probably win just because he doesn't skate as much as I do. He kills it and has smooth style. His favorite skater is Nate Jones.

Worst chore to do around the house, in your opinion?
Probably cleaning the bathroom or cleaning up dog shit.

Do you have a job or anything right now?
I was working at the shop I ride for, Val Surf for a while. i wanted to finish my video part so I just started focusing on that. Now I'm just chilling healing this ankle.
Anthony Amedori "Go Curt" Chyea video part 2009

You mentioned having a new video part in the works, is that going to be coming out anywhere in particular soon?
I'm not sure where it's going to come out. I was filming my video part and I was almost finished. Now that I can't film anymore I'm just going to come out with it. I don't want to sit on it and get old. Might as well just throw it out there.

Got any big plans for the holidays? What're some items on your gift wish list?
No big plans. Eat some food and enjoy the day with my family and friends. No wish list. Just some cardigans from the thrift store or something like that.

What do you forsee the new year will hold for you personally, and also skateboarding in general?
A fully healed ankle and a new video part. Gotta work on finding a board sponsor. Just want to travel, be happy, and enjoy what life has in store for me. I'm ready for the ride. Life is a rollercoaster.

This is probably more of a Corey Adams/Alex Craig question, but what are the chances of there ever being a sequel to Machotaildrop, if you had to guess?
I don't think a sequel, but keep your eyes and ears peeled for a Manwolfs project in the future.

Would you like to thank some folks to end this interview or end with any kind of wild battle cry to stoke out any shredders reading here?
I want to thank my mother, father, brother, Val Surf, UnderGround Wheel Co, Sac, Ashbury, Erick Sandoval, Chad Fernandez, Alex Craig, Corey Adams, the rest of the Machotaildrop crew. Also everyone that has supported me and helped me get to where i am today. SkateBoarding is lifelessness.

NETWORKING WITH GEOFF KOPSKI

2011-11-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

In this NETWORKING interview we talk with ALUMNI BOARDSHOP rider, GEOFF KOPSKI. Enjoy the photos with an interview below, and have another look at Geoff's recent QUICK THREE, along with a look at some of Kopski's work he's done with our Nov.11 Shop of the Month, ALUMNI BOARDSHOP in Madison, Wisconsin. - HALLERAN
PHOTOS BY GEOFF KOWALCHUK & FLIP PHIL

SWITCH VARIAL HEELFLIP PHOTO-KOWALCHUK

JH-How's the ground feel to roll on in LA in late Nov. compared to outside back in Wisconsin?
GK: Crazy smooth! When it gets cold in the Midwest the ground seems like it's frozen. It feels crunchy and pretty rugged. But as bad as it may seem you can't resist the urge to skate. You just gotta skate everyday as long as you can. You never know when the snow will come and ruin the rest of your year.

SWITCH VARIAL HEELFLIP PHOTOS-KOWALCHUK

When is the new Alumni Boardshop video coming out?
There isn't an official premiere date yet, but our filming deadline is the end of September 2012. Look for it coming out Fall 2012.

FS BIGSPIN HEELFLIP PHOTO-FLIP PHIL via FB post

How long have you rode for Alumni?
About five years now. It's crazy how fast time flies by. I remember filming for ALUM-NATION like it was yesterday.

Have you been getting help with gear from anyone else over the years, company-wise?
Pretty much just Alumni. My homies Pete and Bob over at DNA where hooking it up with Habitat for a while, but after they moved to other companies things just kinda fell off. (ed.note:flow-wise from Habitat for Kopski)

Would you rather travel internationally for a week via train & plane, or tour across the US in a van for a month?
That's a tough one. I'm going to have to go with cruising the US in a van. I'm big on traveling and going to new places. Rollin in a van for a month would do a lot more of that than just a week via planes and trains. Though either one would be really sick.

Anything that could stand out as weird or different about your set-up you want to break down for the people reading?
When other people stand on my board they tell me I ride my trucks super tight but they seem fairly loose to me. Aside from that I got a pretty basic set up. Nothing too out of the ordinary.

FS VARIAL HEELFLIP PHOTOS-KOWALCHUK

What will you be doing in a year's time from now, if you had to wager?
Honestly I have no idea. I try not to think to much about it because you never know what opportunities will come your way. I try to just live in the moment and go day to day with whatever happens.

Anyone/anything you'd like to thank, in closing?
Dave Mayhew and Derek Apel at Alumni for helping me out and everything they've done for me. Geoff Kowalchuk for the skate photos. All the homies at the Alhambra skate house. Jeff Halleran and everyone here at Network Skate for hooking up this interview and the Quick Three. And of course my mother for everything she's done for me.

QUICK THREE: GEOFF KOPSKI

2011-11-25T12:24:00.000-08:00

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL!! This QUICK THREE comes from our NOV.11 SHOP of the MONTH, ALUMNI BOARDSHOP rider, GEOFF KOPSKI. Stop by when you're in Madison, Wisconsin or go to alumniboardshop.com for more info. Check out ALUMNI co-owner Dave Mayhew's interview here. Help support your local skater owned and operated skate shops this holiday season, and all year round!

QUICK THREE: GEOFF KOPSKI

2011-11-25T12:15:00.000-08:00

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL!! This QUICK THREE comes from our NOV.11 SHOP of the MONTH, ALUMNI BOARDSHOP rider, GEOFF KOPSKI. Stop by when you're in Madison, Wisconsin or go to alumniboardshop.com for more info. Check out ALUMNI co-owner Dave Mayhew's interview below. Help support your local skater owned and operated skate shops this holiday season, and all year round!

10 FROM BACK WHEN: DAN DREHOBL

2011-11-17T08:02:00.000-08:00

BEHIND THE BRAND WITH SNACK INTERVIEW WITH BONESAW

2011-11-15T09:46:00.000-08:00

JH-How did you decide to start a board company?
BONESAW-It was winter time and I was sitting around smoking a lot of herb and letting random ideas pop into my head. I remember reading a write up of some random street wear brand in a zine and thinking 'how hard could it be to start my own company?' I was also influenced by a company called Grime Official that my friend Rob Owens started. He was the first person I met that had their own brand. He made really crazy graphics like his pro model with a bunch of AK-47s and crack pipes. I thought it was awesome the way he could just put any idea he wanted onto a board like that.

What is the original concept behind the name SNACK?
Skaters are always snacking, literally and metaphorically. Follow any group of skaters around the city and they are in and out of corner stores all day. Its also about being hyped on anything new or cool you get. Most people have their job and day to day bullshit they gotta do. But then you go skating or get some fresh gear or go to a crazy stripper party and that's your snack. A snack is anything that makes life good.

What makes SNACK different from other brands?
Basically, there are no boring people involved with SNACK. A prerequisite to be part of the snack fam is that you are an interesting person, even if you suck at skating. There are so many brands and skaters in the industry that are corny or contrived. Even a lot of the brands that I grew up idolizing in the 90's have gotten 50% watered down. If I go into a shop and look at one of their boards, I'm only 50% inspired to buy it. SNACK represents creative skating and design that we are 100% down for.

What were some of of the initial challenges starting the brand, if any?
I have absolutely no industry experience. I've never even worked in a skateshop. I've had a lot of great help from friends, but I pretty much had to figure out how to do everything myself. Anything from editing video to laying out T shirt designs to making sales calls is basically self taught. It takes a lot of work.

What are some things that help keep the brand going?
I've been blessed to have a lot of great talent fall into my lap.
Since moving to SF 3 years ago, I've seen a lot of diamonds in the rough rise up through the ranks.Its been really cool to see people like Aaron Herrington, Abbas Glass, and Travis Erickson rep forthe brand with video parts even when we were too broke to give them boards.I also get positive feedback from almost everybody I meet
(or people who wanna hate are just keeping their mouths shut).I would do SNACK regardless, but ts cool to create something that other people are excited about too.

What's in the future for SNACK?
We are doing a product release party for our new line soon. Hopefully that will evolve into doing more semi-regular events and parties for all the alcoholic skaters in San Francisco. Beyond that, just trying to keep the brand growing with ads, videos, and sales. There seems to be a bit of a renaissance of smaller, creative companies sprouting up recently. Hopefully, this trend continues and SNACK continues to be a part of it.

Go to snackskateboards.com for more info.

LOUIE BARLETTA 10 FROM BACK WHEN

2011-11-08T07:44:00.000-08:00

Nov SHOP OF THE MONTH: Alumni Boardshop

2011-11-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

Network Skate is pleased to announce Alumni Boardshop located in Madison, Wisconsin as our Shop of the Month for November, 2011. For more info go to alumniboardshop.com

Interview with Co-Owner, Dave Mayhew
Photos/questions by Jeff Halleran (except where noted)

JH- What events lead up to the opening of your shop? When did you officially open your doors for business?
DM- The idea came up about a year after moving back to Madison. My business partner Derek was working at another skate shop and heard from some friends that I wanted to open one. After we worked on the details the shop opened in March 2005.
How did you decide on the name for your shop, and were there any other names you were considering that didn't make the cut?
The name is based on a couple of things. First of all Derek and I have both been skating for a long time, we are Alumni of the skate game. We also wanted a name that had a group feeling. Last we wanted something that started with an A.
What are your roles in running/owning Alumni Boardshop?
Derek does all the buying, beyond that we share everything else.

Who makes up your customer base? Is it usually skaters, or do you get a mix of skaters and people who are just down for the gear and know what's good?
We get skateboarders, college students and people that just like the look or feel of skate goods.

How important is having a solid shop team, making shop videos and keeping skateboarding the main focus at the heart of the shop?
We think its very important to have a shop team. They are the ones out skating and talking to people. Videos are needed to keep the skate community together and get the shop name out for others to learn about.

Speaking of shop videos, how many have you guys put out total, who edits them, and when is the next video coming out?
Right now we have 3 videos done and up on our web page. We are working on another one that will be coming out in the fall of 2012. All of the kids took time in editing but the main filmer Jack Richardson did most of the work on the first 3 videos. We have a new guy (Jared Hachmuth) filming the new video.

How does it feel to fire up the computer and see some of your riders coming out with new edits and making headway in the skate world?
It's a great feeling, reminds me of being young and new to the game. It's amazing how fast you can put edits together these days. You can also get more instant feedback.

Who has ridden for your shop over the years, and who is on the official team roster currently, if there is one?
The original team is Travis Erickson, Andrew Norris, Jack Richardson, Geoff Kopski, Jesse Drukenbrod, Cory Peterson and myself. We have added Timmy Sinnott and Nicholas Medall. Some of the team members have moved away but we still have a solid local team.
Timmy Sinnott- backtail Photo- Cory Peterson

Dave, what experiences of yours, having been a pro skater for years, have been beneficial in now running your own business with Alumni?
Not really, we just listen to what the kids want and treat everybody with respect.

What are some of the biggest challenges in running your own business in the harsh economy of today?
A couple of years ago people wouldn't even flinch to buy things and now we have people second guessing. But over all things are still doing good.

Can you tell any funny stories about something you look back on and laugh about in the history of Alumni Boardshop?Our old landlord lady used to crack us up. She never understood the concept of a skateshop. She would tell us to bring in all kinds of crazy stuff like wedding dresses, puzzles, Frisbees and tons of other things. She did it for 4 years! We used to try and hide when we would see her walking near the shop.

Ever bodyslam any shoplifters into submission or do you bust out the chickening sleeper and detain them until the cops come?
Not yet.
Do you guys do any online sales, and does marketing through social networking play any part in your advertising?
We do the Facebook thing and we have a web site. Beyond that we don't really advertise at all.
Can you speak to the importance of supporting your local skater owned and operated skate shop vs going to the corporately owned mall stores?
I think they are both important. Most kids start off going to the mall and learning about skateboarding. After a while they hear about us and want to shop at Alumni because we are local and they can see us out skating.

Anything else you'd like to add or would you like to thank anyone?
Thanks to all of those that support Alumni!

NETWORKING WITH REUBEN BARRACK INTERVIEW

2011-11-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

Reuben Barrack Interview
words: Brian Blakely
photos: Andy Ortega,Mikey Gould and Steven Levas

Reuben was arguably my favorite contestant in Slap's "One in a Million" contest last year. Like the other millions of viewers, my interpretation of Rueben was that he was just the mellow, humble ripper who was simply happy to be a part of it all and took in the experience to it's fullest extent. He was definitely the talk of the town here in San Diego for a bit while that SLAP series was live on the web and he's making a name for himself while constantly keeping a huge smile on his face. He's an old soul in a 17 year olds body. He has a solid future that doesn't necessarily only involve skateboarding and that's fine, but if you've ever seen his footage you know his future in skateboarding is going to be a long, exciting one indeed. He rides the city bus to class every morning and has his face shoved in books during the week to take care of his college courses… and on any given weekend he's out filming and molding a potentially life changing career for himself while traveling the country with dudes like Louie Barletta and Cairo Foster. I'm stoked to see what this dude produces as the years unfold.

Reuben Barrack 17 year old with a beard

Where did you grow up? Who were some dudes you grew up skating with?
1.) I'm born and raised in San Diego, and I've lived in North Park my whole life. My older brother Nate and his friends Daniel and Quinn taught me how to skate and took me to spots all over Point Loma on the weekends.

How old are you and why did you start skateboarding?
2.) I'm 17 years old. I started skating because it looked like a lot more fun than playing a sport or riding a bike. I got my first board when I was 6, and never stopped. My brother is a huge influence, I wouldn't have gotten into it if it wasn't for him.

OLLIE INTO PORTERO BOWL PHOTO: ANDY ORTEGA
Are you into any other shit?
3.) I've always been into theatre. I'm no dancer, but being involved in shows has helped me have balance in my life, whether it's filming for a video part or busting my ass off in school.

Who were some pros you looked up to when you were younger? What was that one video that got you sparked?
4.) I grew up watching Misled Youth and Welcome to Hell on VHS. Those videos are super raw, and everyone's part stood out in my mind. That era of skateboarding is timeless.

OLLIE OVER NOSEBLUNT PHOTO: STEVEN LEVAS

Before One-In-A-Million, were you getting hooked up by anyone?
5.) I was riding for the local shop in North Park, Route 44. They've helped me out tremendously over the past few years. They are the ideal skater's skate shop. I'm stoked to be a part of that crew.

Would you say that Slap contest significantly changed your life in a handful of ways, not just with skateboarding?
6.) Of course, no question. It was my first time in San Francisco, and my first real skate trip. I was the youngest contestant in the history of the contest, so I was honored to be there. The whole experience taught me a lot about who I am, and made me realize why I started skating in the first place: for pure enjoyment. The more you focus on getting sponsored and becoming noticed, the harder it becomes. You have to stay grounded and never get in over your head. I left as a boy, and came back as a man, as lame as that sounds.

360 Flip Over SD Rail PHOTO: STEVEN LEVAS

Naw, that's sick. When you first initially sent in your footage to get reviewed by SLAP, did you think you'd make it as far as you did?
7.) Not at all. To be perfectly honest, I thought it was a waste of time. My friend Cameron, who filmed everything in my entry tape, told me about the contest and suggested that I enter. I figured they didn't call it "One in a Million" for no reason. There are so many people out there who shred, and I figured there was no way I'd get picked based on the entries from year's past. To my surprise, I ended up being one of the 7 finalists. I was shocked. If Cameron didn't support me and hype me up to enter, I wouldn't be where I'm at now.

Was everyday pretty hectic, or was it easy to not picture it all as a real "contest?"
8.) Everyday became increasingly harder to keep up physically. The contest was more of a battle with myself more than with anyone else. I'm lucky that I didn't end up completely broke off. Even though Forrest was shutting down every spot he encountered, Matty and Mango and the rest of the guys kept it fun. This made me forget I was in a contest to begin with.

Front 180 ss Back 180 Photo: Andy Ortega

Is there anything you regret from the experience? Was there anything that went down to make it suck? Or was it basically all fun times?
9.) Forrest might have killed the vibe at times, but that definitely didn't ruin the experience. Something dope went down everyday at every spot we skated. Everyone on the trip had their moment to showcase their talents. There was always something new going on, which kept it fresh. There's nothing I would want to take back from it.

Did you guys ever get wasted and break shit or was skateboarding the only thing on everyone's mind?
10.) Hahaha. During the day, which were full 12 hour days of shredding, skateboarding was the primary objective. At night, nothing was ever smashed or broken, but the guys bought a few 18 packs every now and then. The only time the guys snuck a beer for me was the night that I got the kickflip 5-0 at Clipper. It was worth it.

Wallie Five O Photo: Andy Ortega

So you just had a new video part drop in a local video right? What was the video called and how long did you film for it?
11.) I was filming for the new Animal Style video "What Day is It?" for the past year or so. Some of the footage in my part was before One in a Million, but everything else was filmed after the contest and up until now. I finshed my part about two weeks before the premier. I was just happy I had something to to turn in.

Were you getting hooked up with Enjoi before the video dropped? Who else hooks you up?
12.) I got my first box from Enjoi halfway through filming for the new video, which got me even more psyched to get down to business. I'm also getting hooked up from Lakai footwear, Brixton apparel, and Orion trucks. They're all taking good care of me and I couldn't be happier.

Kickflip up Roosevelt Gap Photo: STEVEN LEVAS

Who are some AMs out there getting you hyped right now?
13.) Ishod Wair is killin it, as always. I'm really hyped on Jordan Taylor and Sean Conover as well. Ben Raemers is also having an awesome year. It's hard to name only a few.

Have you been on any other sick trips lately? Give us a crazy story!
14.) I went up to San Francisco for a week with the Animal Style dudes earlier this summer. After a full week of driving all over the place, we decided to get buck on the last night of the trip. We were staying in Oakland at our friends brother's pad, out back in a one bedroom flat. There were nine of us crammed together, lined up in an L-shape formation starting from the doorway leading into the bedroom. We slept on the floor, which was concrete, and I loved it. Since it was the last night, we rolled up our bags and started playing games of skate inside. Flashes were going off and everyone was out of it. Something was bound to get broken, and unfortunately one of our friends leaned on a window and practically fell right through. Although that was a bummer, it didn't stop everyone from having a good time and celebrating the successful trip. The drive home the next day was still pretty rough though.

Gap To Front Five O Photo: Andy Ortega

What's a typical day like for you? Are you still in High School?
15.) I wake up every weekday at 5:30, because I take the city bus to school. It's not as bad as it seems. You always see something strange going down on the bus, especially early in the morning. I get out of school around 1:30, and then i'll usually bomb the hill to OB park and skate for an hour or so before taking the city bus home to handle some homework. As long as I can at least ride my board during the week i'm at ease, but as soon as the weekend rolls around it's time to get down to business.

What are your thoughts on college? Is skateboarding a one way road or can you juggle homework with being a sponsored skateboarder trying to make it?
16.) I'm slowly, but surely, making my way through the college application process right now. I've been juggling homework and skateboarding for years, so I don't see how it could be much different with college. It's not easy, but I think that's why I keep doing it, because I like the challenge. Walker Ryan is proven fact for handling both really well, which makes me feel like I can do the same. I'm not trying to become a doctor or anything, but it never hurts to have options.

Who are some homies you cruise around with pretty frequently? How often are you traveling, filming, etc.?
17.) Lately I've been cruising with Andy Mack and Spencer Prati, as well as Connor Getzlaff. I'm always with my brother Nate, Daniel Fullen, Cameron Ward, Steven Levas, and Mikey Gould. I try to film every weekend which usually works out pretty well. I'm hoping to take a few trips up to San Jose and San Francisco soon, but for now I'm tending to my weekly routine.

Switch Front Heel SD Photo: Andy Ortega

Do you lurk networkskate everyday?
19.)Hell yeah!

Shout outs?
19.) Thanks to all my friends and family, everyone at Route 44, all my sponsors, Matt Eversole, James Craig, Cairo Foster, Louie Barletta, Kelly Bird, David Stoddard, Jake Stewart, Mark Whiteley, Matt Ohlin, Eliot Greenwald, Shockus, and everyone here at Networkskate.

I know you're a smart kid… do you have any solid words or philosophies to leave us with?
20.) Don't stress out about the little things in life. Stay positive and the rest will work itself out naturally.

BEHIND THE BRAND WITH SK8MAFIA - INTERVIEW WITH DAN CONNELLY

2011-10-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

JH- How long had you all been working on video for?
D.C.- 2 years, with 2 filming trips to Spain.

Which riders turned pro for the MAFIA in conjunction with the impending release of the video?
Jimmy, Jamie, Larelle, Wes and Tyler.

Can you explain the process behind turning this recent batch of riders pro?
About a year ago Preebz and I came up with the idea to turn Jimmy, Jamie, Larelle, Wes, and Tyler all pro together at the release of the next SM video. Family style. We ran the idea by the crew, they were hyped, so we stuck to it.

Who's left on the am squad now that the dudes went pro?
Marshall Heath, PKid, Dorian Gray, Jeff Marshall, and _ _ _ _ _ _.
How'd you guys get such a bangin' friends part?
Our friends are our family.

Can you talk about some of the heads up in there a little?
I will just mention a few homies off the top of my head. Jon Holland, Winkle, Mike Fitz, Sweet Skateboard team, The Perus Crew, Shuffle Crew, NS crew, Carroll, Guy, Fabian, Penny, Shuriken, Sandoval, the list goes on. The section is dope, I mean what's a skate video without a friends section. Gotta keep it OG, without your friends you got nothing. Thanks to all the homies.

What kind of work went into hand-crafting what sounded like custom built hip-hop in the video's soundtrack;who was behind this and was the music created specifically for the SK8MAFIA video?
No, not really, "Ya dun dun" just made sense from our Thrasher trip, BT picked his song, but the intro wasn't planned out at all. It just happened last minute. So, a few weeks ago Brandon had hit me up, he said he was rolling over with Ray Jones and a song for his part. Pretty sure it was the day we did the day in a life with TWS and Shuriken's bday. Anyways, BT and Ray showed up with a whole cd of tracks. I imported his song for his part and then asked if it was cool to grab them all. He was down. I think we made a cd and bumped that shit for the next couple weeks in the van and at the crib. Then like 5 days before the premiere I was in the office converting some clips, listening to that Ray Jones. This track came on and I had heard it a bunch of times before in the car, but it was just an intro. 32 seconds long... it said "Sk8mafia yeah that's my thang...." in the intro and then cut out. I was finally at my computer when it came on, so I emailed him...yo, what track is this? with the snippet attached. Homie replied back it's RAy jones- paradize city evol intent REmix. I was like word can you send it over! Now keep in mind, at this time the intro was done. Edited to Ice Cube's Amerikkka's most wanted. That same night BT, Wes, and P were chillin on the office couch helping out writing the credits when I got the email with the track. We all peeped it right away. Super hyped, P's instant reaction was "daaaammn, this's tight, I'm feelin that one!" I said Fuck it could be a dope intro song, but it's too late to do a re-edit. P was like, "GYEAAA." The next morning I woke up super early sparked, went into the office where BT was done, passed out. Imported the track into the intro timeline. Copy pasted the footage over it from the original and just played it through to see how it felt. I thought damn this has potential and adds way more feeling to the opening of the vid. Worked on it til it was done and ended up working out. Gotta give it up to Ray Jones and P for sparkin the idea. Thanks homies.

When will the vid be out on DVD and will it be available online at all? Unfortunately we had some technical difficulties in the past 2 months, a dear friend and SM video editor Tommy passed away Rest In Peace, and then our filmer/editor Nick Lamm quit on us. So the premiere and the DVD deadline got pushed back about 15 days. At the moment we are shooting for the end of the month.

Is there going to be a tour after the video drops to support the release?
Nope no tour set. Preebz set up like 15 or 20 domestic shop premieres and about 30 or 40 internationally.

What's next for SK8MAFIA?
Same ol' same ol'. Skate and have fun with the crew.

DC24 SHOUT-OUTS:
Thanks to Tyler Surrey, Ryan PKID Petiashiski, Ray Jones, Jon Holland, and Jimmy Kappel for helping me out with the video, couldn't of got it done without you homies. Special thanks to the Crew. SK8MAFIA4LIFE
Check out the new extended SK*MAFIA trailer here "GOODTIMES"
Interview by: JEFF HALLERAN

JT AULTZ 10 FROM BACK WHEN: '06-'07

2011-10-18T04:52:00.000-07:00

On this episode of 10 From Back When we have 10 banging clips from SD's JT Aultz. These clips were mostly filmed while working with JT on his "Black and Blue" part for Vox Footwear. JT is by far one of the most underrated rippers I have ever had the privilege of filming with. Hope you enjoy. - Shockus

10 FROM BACK WHEN: DAVID GRAVETTE

2011-10-11T02:42:00.000-07:00

UReview: Tom Asta Rookie Shoe

2011-10-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Networking: PACIFIC DRIVE "TAKE BACK THE ALLEY 2"

2011-10-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Oct SHOP OF THE MONTH: Autumn Skate Shop

2011-10-03T18:09:00.000-07:00

SHOP OF THE MONTH AUTUMN SKATE SHOP

Paul Gar interview

Photo's and Interview by: Tadashi Yamaoda

We are proud to spotlight Autumn Skate Shop as this month's Shop of the Month. They have been servicing the skaters of NYC for 10 years now and we hope they continue to do so for many many more. On top of delivering only the best product skateboarding has to offer they also created the Autumn Bowl which was a huge addition to the New York skate scene.

How long you been working here?

4 or 5 years

How long has the shop been around?

About 10 years, I believe it use to be on 2nd street for 2 or 3 years.

What makes this shop different then the others?

Umm everyone just comes here all the pros and cool guys always come here. We're right between

Tompkins and 12th and A. We use to have Autum bowl which was one of the only indoor spots in the city.

We pretty much only carry product that we ourselves use or like.

What sells the best?

Deluxe shit sells for days and shit that the local guys who hang out here ride for. Jake Johnson and Dill hang out here

so Workshop does well here.

Do you have a team?

We're working on a team for more of the local younger guys. More hommie hook up thing at the moment.

Have you made any videos?

Currently in the works. I've been putting out a lot of random cell phone clips that I put on the site in the meantime.

What are some must does for skaters who have never visited NYC before?

Flatground at Tompkins for all day for no apparent reason, Max Fish before it shuts down, pushing down the streets and hanging onto a cab,

the whole city is a skate park have fun with it.

Andy Kessler Memorial

Any crazy stories that have happened here?

Hairy Jumanji that says it all, he's fun to hang out with

Final words.

Just come thru. Good times, I don't know.

Autumn Skater Shop

436 E 9th St

NEW YORK, NY 10009

(212) 677-6220

http://autumnnyc.com/

more info about Autum:

paulgar.glogspot.com

quartersnacks.com

autumn-skateshop@facebook

Behind the Brand: Lowcard Magazine

2011-09-26T17:50:00.000-07:00

Interview By Brian Blakely

Photo’s by Blakely & Low Card

In a world filled high-end skateboarding publications, local magazines, and a variety of different zines, Lowcard of San Francisco, California is definitely a mentionable name in skateboarding. After being made a few years ago simply for the sake of talking shit, shooting photos and skateboarding, the road that editor Rob Collinson has created is a long, scenic route indeed. He admits that before the magazine was filled with advertising and major deadlines that he had a little more fun... but sprouting from the ads and sales of merchandise comes another thing: free travel (and probably some free beer). And he’s happy to say that the mag now pays for itself. So he’s found a happy medium. I met with Rob at Crossroads and shot the shit behind the Lowcard tent while the other dudes drank beers and screamed at chicks and little kids through a mega phone.

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Give us your name and your roll at Lowcard?

My name is Robert Collinson, and I’m the editor at Lowcard Magazine.

Robert Collinson aka Magnethead

When did you start Lowcard and how soon did it transition from a paper zine into a published magazine?

I started it back in 2003 and it was just a paper zine when it started. I was at work at the time and just did it on our Xerox machine. The transition was after about 2 or 3 years or something like that I think. Yeah it was pretty cool, my girlfriend at the time who is now my wife, her sister worked at a printing place so she was able to do it for us pretty cheap.

Who were some of the first people involved with the magazine and are any of them still around doing the same shit?

Well when it started it was just me with my photos that I’d tape onto the paper and Xerox. The first person to really offer to help do things was my wife and she was my girlfriend at the time and now it’s a lot of people doing it. We got a lot of different people doing things... we got a few photographers, people writing stuff, other stuff... but yeah so my wife started helping me I think at issue 2... 2 or 3 she was helping me with it like Xeroxing and stuff, shit like that.

LOW CARD C.E.O

Who came up with the name and is there any real meaning behind it?

Yeah I came up with the name because there was a scratch card at the time and it was called high card, and the object of the game was your card was supposed to beat the dealers card but they’d always give you the low card! You know? You’d never win. I was like fuck man, they should call this low card! And around the same time I had all these photos and I was thinking of doing a zine anyways and I was like that’s a perfect name for a zine and especially in the way I wanted to portray it. Like you know, just the low card or the low lifestyle we all live like scumbag lifestyle that skaters kind of do.

How old were you when you did your first zine?

I did my first zine when I was in high school, it was called Broken Bolts (laughs) I only made one issue. I think I actually only made like one Xerox copy maybe two when I was like 15 or 16. And then um, I lived in the mid west for a little bit and my friend and I made one called SMUT and that was the same deal we would do a lot of interviews and just talk shit. And then another thing, when I was in middle school my friend and I used to—you know you’d always see those checkouts in transworld and stuff like that—we’d write up fake checkouts about each other and we’d write like “last seen getting arrested... for drinking...” (laughs) and just kind of like rip on each other and I think that’s what originally sparked my idea... because we’d just make each other laugh and like give them to our friends ya know... do a little write up like “yeah... he might be able to do a kickflip...” (laughing) you know, just like funny shit.

JOE KILLING IT IN THE VIDEO ROOM

Being the editor of the magazine did you like go to school for journalism or did you just like writing? Or was it like the photography... like you had all these photos so you might as well do something with them?

Naw, well actually I never really did good in school, I kind of always got behind but one thing I did like was writing... I’ve always been into writing. So no I never went to school for journalism or anything like that. I just always took photos too and my dad gave me some cameras from time to time... like nothing great but like cameras he could afford to give me and kind of pushed me into taking photos I guess... but ya know my photos still aren’t very good. But that’s my personality though like I don’t like to set up five flashes ya know? It becomes more of a production and takes the fun out of it. I just like to maybe have one flash or whatever and just take the photo and then it just makes it more casual too for the skater so you don’t have to put all this pressure on them for trying to get this photo... but, I get good photos from people.

SEAN WITH GUEST MOOSE

Do you still have just as much fun with Lowcard as you did when it first started?

Yeah well sometimes but not all the time, sometimes it’s not as fun as it used to be, but the fun thing is when we can have enough money to go on a trip—I have just as much fun, but now that it’s actually more of a business it is a lot different then when your just taking photos and all that stuff. Like getting ads and all that stuff isn’t that fun, but when you actually get the mag in your hand that’s when you know its all worth it.

UNLOADING ISSUE #40

Does Lowcard pay the bills or do you do other jobs on the side?

Naw its just a side thing but it pays for itself now which is awesome... we used to dump a lot of our own money just to make it because we loved it so much, like just to do it ya know, my wife and I, but yeah now it pays for itself and I work a regular job too.

SEAN

What’s a typical day like at Lowcard? Do you guys have a warehouse and offices?

Yeah we have a warehouse with offices and what not... I mean the days vary but like if we’re just starting a new issue we kind of go through and make up a mock copy and like write up where all the ads are going and figure out like where the interviews and articles are going and just map it all out... and that takes a lot of time. Um, calling people... calling the advertisers, calling the photographers, packing boxes for the shops that are ordering our shirts and the mags but it just depends on the day. There’s a lot involved with it.

LOW CARD OFFICE

What keeps you motivated to just keep doing it?

I kind of need to keep busy or I’ll probably go nuts. I have to always be doing something usually... you could say I got like ADD or something (laughs). But I love skating more than anything and I love being with my friends and traveling and those things alone keep me motivated to do it and when people look at it that are psyched on it and things like that, that’s what keeps me motivated to do it. And that’s what made it grow in the first place was just people liking it a lot and laughing and that’s what keeps me motivated.

FREDDY AND MANNY

Cool, any thanks?

I just want to say thanks to everyone who supports and contributes, all the shops, distributors, and just skaters. Thanks a lot for making it what it is today.

Lowcardmag.com

BUY LOW CARD GEAR!!!