Register for the School’s Out Jam Presented by KR3W at skateparkoftampa.com/contest.

After 9 great years of skateboarding and adventures Blind Skateboards and Jake Brown have parted ways.
Jake Brown is one of the most dynamic, positive and genuine skateboarders I have ever met and been lucky enough to call my friend and I wish him nothing but the best on his next adventure.
I cant wait to see what Jake’s got up his sleeve next
Weiss

SEE FURBY’S 420 PART RIGHT HERE TOMORROW AT 4:20 PM!

The 2012 Pro-tec Pool Party is Almost Here
Establishing Legends and Cementing Icons Each Year
Watch it Live via the HD webcast
May 12, 2012
Join us for the 8th Annual Pro-tec Pool Party hydrated by vitaminwater on May 12th and see 45 top pros and masters vie for their piece of $113,000 in one of the most unforgiving bowls ever built. Held in the historic replica Combi Bowl at Vans Skatepark at the Block at Orange, the 2012 Pool Party is stacked with talent, exhibiting the best competition ever in both divisions.
Watch the live webcast!
Saturday, May 12th from 2:00 pm to 9:30 pm
A live HD webcast of the entire Pro-tec Pool Party will premiere at www.vans.com/poolparty
Expected Riders Include:
Pros: Pedro Barros (Defending Champ), Rune Glifberg, Andy Macdonald, Nolan Munroe, Alex Perelson, Omar Hassan, Tony Trujillo, Bucky Lasek, Steve Pineiro, Mike Owen, and more.
Masters: Chris Miller (Defending Champ and ’05-’09 Winner), Lance Mountain, Tony Hawk, Eric Nash, Duane Peters, Sergie Ventura, Jeff Grosso, Pat Ngoho, Rob “Sluggo” Boyce, Steve Alba, Tony Magnusson, Brian Pennington, and more.
Judges – includes John Cardiel and Bryce Kanights.
The Pro-tec Pool Party is made possible by the support of Vans and vitaminwater.
For more information on the Pro-tec Pool Party plus daily pre-event coverage including photos, videos and blog updates from practice, please visit: www.vans.com/poolparty.

Supra is hitting the road for the Three Amigos Tour with Neen Williams, Keelan Dadd, and Boo Johnson promoting their new Amigo colorways. they will be joined by Kevin Romar, Spencer Hamilton, Pat Rumney, and Nick Tucker. Dates and locations below!

There are three new Amigos in 2012—Neen Williams, Keelan Dadd, and Boo Johnson—and all three have designed their own colorway for the classic Amigo low top:

SUPRA Presents The 2012 Three Amigos Tour

Neen: green suede upper, yellow accents, yellow stitching, green vulcanized sole, with white foxing and a green pinstripe, and a signature footbed.

Keelan: purple suede upper, yellow accents, yellow vulcanized sole, with white foxing and a yellow pinstripe, and a signature footbed.

Boo: burgundy suede upper on a vulcanized gum rubber sole with a burgundy pinstripe, and a signature footbed.

And, like last year, the Three Amigos (along with Spencer Hamilton, Kevin Romar, Pat Rumney, and Nick Tucker) are hitting the road with a grande Southern tour to celebrate the trio of Amigos. Check the dates and times below for a Three Amigo tour stop near you. The SUPRA Three Amigo shoes are available Saturday, April 14, at better skate retailers worldwide and suprafootwear.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14: DALLAS, TX

3:00 Signing: Index Skate Shop
6:00 Demo: [TBA]

Index Skate Shop
5319 E. Mockingbird Ln.
Dallas, TX 75206
214.824.9777

SUNDAY, APRIL 15: AUSTIN, TX

3:00 Signing

Fast Forward
9901 N. Capital of Texas Hwy. #150
Austin, TX 78759
512.340.0225

SUNDAY, APRIL 15: CEDAR PARK, TX

5:00 Demo

Brushy Creek Skatepark
2310 Brushy Creek Rd.
Cedar Park, TX 78613
604.530.1114

FRIDAY, APRIL 20: ATLANTA, GA

5:00 Signing

Ambush
2555 Cobb Pl. Ln. NW
Kennesaw, GA 30144
770.420.9111

TUESDAY, APRIL 24: ST. PETERSBURG, FL

5:00 Signing and demo

Westside/The Schoolyard
4033 35th St. N.
St. Petersburg, FL 33714
727.525.0496

THURSDAY, APRIL 26: ORLANDO, FL

5:00 Signing

CCS, Florida Mall
8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32809
407.851.2958

THURSDAY, APRIL 26: ORLANDO, FL

7:00 Demo

Midtown Skatepark
5043 Forsyth Commerce Rd.
Orlando, FL 32807
407 440 2802

Top 5 KOTR moments
1. Guy’s pep talks
2. Rick when him and Guy would be crunching numbers
3. Vincent’s raps
4. The stripper in the van
5. Homie getting his phone stolen at that one spot

Top 5 KOTR makes outs (in order)
1. The stripper
2. The GILF
3. Juggalette till she got bummed when I grabbed her ass
4. Longboard chick
5. I only had 4

Top 5 things about being sponsored at age 12
1. Didn’t have to skate X-Games boards anymore
2. Didn’t have to skate in Payless shoes anymore
3. Going on Termite trips
4. Spending all my per-diem on Mexican chili candy
5. Skateboarding with no worries

Top 5 nicknames people have given you
1. Spinach—Yeah Lucas and JB then Reda heard it and it stuck
2. Sparrow—I don’t remember who made it up I just remember Rick and Guy kept calling me that on KOTR
3. Llama—Moose started calling me that. He said I look like the llama from The Emperors New Groove
4. Squirrel—Old
5. DE—My initials

Top 5 cars
1. R34 Nissan Skyline
2. AE86 Panda Trueno
3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution v//
4. Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type R
5. Mazda RX-7 (FD)

Top 5 things about riding for Lakai
1. Everyone on the team is sick
2. It’s LAKAI!
3. Everything about Lakai is awesome
4. That
5. is all

Top 5 things to do in Arkansas
1. Cow tipping
2. Watching the sunset
3. Drinking beers with my big brother
4. Shooting with my step dad
5. Bugging the shit out of my mom

Top 5 reasons to move back to Fontana
1. Fontana skatepark
2. SB meet
3. 45-minutes from LA
4. Thai Time
5. What am I saying? Anyone renting a room in LA?

Top 5 moving violations
1. Unsafe lane change ticket
2. No front license plate
3. No front license plate, again
4. Speeding ticket I got on the way to take my behind-the-wheel test
5. No front license plate, another time

Top 5 things about being lazy
1. I’m trying to gain weight
2. No matter how much I sleep I’m still always tired
3. Facebook is really interesting
4. My phone always dies so I never know what time it is
5. Huh?

Top 5 people
1. Chris Roberts
2. Casper
3. Anfff
4. MJ
5. Guy

Top 5 things about being a smoker
1. Makes
2. you
3. look
4. really
5. FKN cool. :D

Top 5 foods
1. Peeeeeekza
2. Burritos from Miguel’s Jr.
3. Red curry from this bomb thai restaurant by my house
4. Ice cream
5. Tapatio

Top 5 songs
1.Two Door Cinema Club “I Can Talk”
2. The Walkmen “The Rat”
3. Foster the People “Houdini (RAC Mix)”
4. Sufjan Stevens “Year of the Dog”
5. Coconut Records “West Coast”

Top 5 reasons to hang out with Chris Roberts
1. Chill hard
2. Tea at Starbucks
3. Smoke a cigarette on the Marina
4. Play Wii Bowling
5. Eat Pinkberry and listen to super ghey music only us are hyped on!

Top 5 reasons to visit Girl
1. To say hello to everyone
2. To bug the shit out of Meza
3. To get free stuff
4. Skate the park with Rick, Mike and Hershel
5. To see what’s new in the Art dump

Check out the new company and website from Rodney Torres “Torro”

Check it live here!

Chad Muska’s Skytop III from Supra Footwear is one of the most comfortable shoes on the market by far. With a silhouette unlike anything offered in the skate market today, it is sure to stand out. I’ve been seeing skaters like Neen Williams, Keelan Dadd, Jim Greco all wearing them. So for this weeks Reviewed, we give it to Muska’s Skytop III!

Visit Suprafootwear.com for more info.

These are photos that have influenced me in some way or another. I’ve looked up to most of these pros and they have my favorite styles in skating.

I’m stoked that there’s someone like Chrome Ball for kids now to check out what skating used to be like. I think skate magazines and photography have changed a lot and really seem to be missing something that these old photos have.

Maybe I just sound old now but I wish the creative side of magazines and ads would come back again in skating because there really is nothing that compares to it.
Read More!

As the first 2nd-generation pro in skateboarding history (dad Steve was named Skater of the Year in 1978), Alex was raised on the classics of style, power and flow. Coming up during a time when many skaters were obsessed with extreme technicality and counting stairs, Alex carved out a name for himself on board by balancing timeless standards with the only the best of the modern skateboarding, executing across all terrains with natural grace and command.

Also known for his creative sensibilities, sarcastic humor, and attention to detail, Alex brings more than just great skateboarding to the table. He embodies the approach of a cultured skater who projects personal style in all aspects of their lives. As such, Alex has signed with Nike Skateboarding apparel as well as footwear, and will be working closely with both.

Eric Fletcher joins Sinner and Nick over at LE Skateboards.

Go to Tampa Pro’s Live webcast now! Here!

“What”s your *AMMO* !?!” Episode 1 features cultural icon Dante Ross speaking on a few of the things that help create his mindset…

*AMMO* is a photographer’s camera, a musician’s instrument, an artist’s paint, a skateboarder’s board etc…

Anyone who is making their way through life by the means of their passion, their natural gift or even a talent they may have
learned is using their *AMMO*…

WHAT’S YOUR *AMMO* !?!

The Supra team made way out to Australia and New Zealand this last week for the Oz Man Out Tour. With the likes of Erik Ellington, Stevie Williams, Matt Mumford, TK, Lizard, Neen Nap Williams, Boo Johnson, Kevin Romar, Spencer Hamilton, and Bjorn Johnston this is sure to be a fun tour! On this update we are coming from Sydney with some shit.

Ellington hopping on the tour straight to disaster.

Ben James A.K.A. Blackout Benny chillin at the spot with some beers and Brett Stokes.

Stokes!!!

Boo and Spencer checking out this not so famous spot. Boo asks Neen if he’s down. Neen replies,

Woooooooo……

Romar getting used to Nap laying around.

Cops giving us the boot. Nap don’t seem to care!

Rolled up to a new spot. Spencer straight at it like a hungry dog!

Dean testing it out with a back 180.

Spenny sticks a lovely front shuv!

Yeah Boo!

Boo peeping his ham with the team.

Romar approved!

Next spot was this monster of a set. Romar getting ready for a battle.

Battle won! collect that cheese!

Time to hit the club!
Part 3 coming soon!

Visit suprafootwear.com for more

The Supra team made way out to Australia and New Zealand this last week for the Oz Man Out Tour. With the likes of Erik Ellington, Stevie Williams, Matt Mumford, TK, Lizard, Neen Nap Williams, Boo Johnson, Kevin Romar, Spencer Hamilton, and Bjorn Johnston this is sure to be a fun tour!

After landing in Brisbane we opted to go straight to some spots before the hotel, “Nap Williams was unexcited about the choice”.

Next spot was this massive thing. TK wants a piece!

Boo and Spencer getting front row seats for the huck.

You got it fool!

Back to the van for the hotel, Bjorn taking the wheel switch. Heading to the Gold Coast for a few days!

Nap Williams could not be more stoked on this choice.

Bjorn hooked up some dope apartments for the stay. Boo enjoying the view from the balcony.

This is Spencer’s view from the balcony looking out.

View of my hair from the balcony looking in!

Shit gets lived in real quick around here.

Stevie getting his new whip hooked up for the demo, playa!

Dadadaaaadaaaadada,

Dadadaaaadaaaadada,

Demo!

Boo proper Fs Bigspin!

Van Life! Back to the hotel it’s a wrap.

Good Morning Life!

First spot of the day, Romar asks if anyone wants to get there!

Stevie and Mumford talk it over while TK sweeps the take off.

Lizard cleaning the landing with a tree branch!

The posse gathers for the show!

And it’s show time with TK and Boo!
Part 2 coming soon!

SUPRA OZ MAN OUT TOUR
The SUPRA team is gearing up to get Down Under later this month. The Australian/New Zealand tour will feature
Matt Mumford, Erik Ellington, Terry Kennedy, Lizard King, Stevie Williams, Neen Williams, Keelan Dadd, Boo Johnson, Kevin Romar, Spencer Hamilton, and Bjorn Johnston.

Check out these OZ MAN OUT tour dates:

Wednesday, Feb. 22: Nerang Skatepark
5:00pm – 7:00pm Demo + Signing
Arthur Earle Park, Pacific Highway
Nerang, QLD, 4211

Friday, Feb. 24: Waterloo Skatepark
5:00pm – 7:00pm Demo + Signing
Elizabeth St.,
Waterloo, NSW, 2017

Sunday, Feb. 26: Belconnen Skatepark
3:00pm – 5:00pm Demo + Signing
77 Emu Bank,
Belconnen, ACT, 2617

Thursday, Mar. 1: Fast times Skate Shop
4:30pm – 5:30pm Signing
121 Swanston St.,
Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Thursday, Mar. 1: Riverside Skatepark
6:00pm – 8:00pm Demo
Boathouse Drive, Alexandra Gardens
Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Sunday, Mar. 4: Victoria Skatepark
3:00pm – 5:00pm Demo + Signing
203-271 Victoria Street
Auckland Central, New Zealand

By Steve Cave, About.com Guide

Rodney Mullen is, for me, hands down the best skater we’ve got. Rodney Mullen has invented a massive list of tricks, he’s taken first in every freestyle competition he’s entered but one (that one, he was sick. And took second!), and he’s well known a very easy going, humble, friendly guy. I got to talk to Rodney Mullen recently, and here’s what he had to say:

What first drew you to skateboarding? And what keeps driving you?

Rodney Mullen – Skating first appealed to me because of the type of people that did it, plus the fact it wasn’t organized or coached. There was no “perfect swing” to master; everybody did things their own way, and every way seemed “right.” There was nobody telling me that I wasn’t good enough, or that I should be more like the other guy, or that I had to beat the other guy… Even at contests, skaters didn’t seem to be competing against each other; everybody just did their own thing, together. What drives me is pretty simple: I love skateboarding. It helps me be me; it’s how I feel free.

On your video segments, you look ridiculously comfortable and natural. Where does that come from?

Rodney Mullen – I’ve been doing it for a while, plus I guess my mom had good balance.

When no one is filming, what’s your skating like?

Rodney Mullen – Embarrassing. I just cruise around and build on movements that seem to offer promise for what’s next for me, or just simple motions that feel good depending on the spot. I’m not that interested in repeating hard stuff that doesn’t point to something new; I try to keep my eye on what’s weak about my skating. Plenty of that to work with… I almost always skate alone, in the middle of the night– no cameras and stuff. It’s my time.

What do you do with your time when you aren’t skating?

Rodney Mullen – My wife says that the best way to describe my life is Forest Gump. I find myself surrounded by extraordinary people that give me unusual opportunities, so I do the best I can. Pretty vague, I know– sorry. I nerd out a lot with books, computers, & music, and I’m always close to the Bible. Other than that, I hang out with my wife and dogs as much as I can.

What projects have you been working on lately? (and what happened to the Uber-board?)

Rodney Mullen – I did the Uber stuff a long time ago, and now they’re still trying to “catch up” for mass distribution– not that easy. Besides the Gump stuff, I do a number of things with the company, especially with Tensor & Almost. But the main thing to me is still just my skating. After Round III, I had become limited. I promised myself I wouldn’t film again until I had something to offer. Over the past year, I’ve taken a long and humbling route that will hopefully change that, though I still have a ways to go. I should start filming again in a month or so. Wish me luck.

What advice do you have for skaters reading this?

Rodney Mullen – Just stay close to your skating and your real friends. I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of honors just for doing what I love, yet they didn’t add one iota to the value that skating itself has brought to my life. Just stay close to what makes you you.

Interview & Intro by Dustin Umberger
From: 48blocks

Ronson Lambert has been on the scene for over a decade now, beginning his career on the short-lived DNA team alongside some of the more obscure and underrated rippers of the day. Then he suddenly exploded out of the gate with two very innovative video parts – P-Rod’s Forecast and Transworld’s A Time to Shine put Ronson in the spotlight temporarily. But fortune and circumstance changed his path, securing for him a spot out of the limelight but still in the game. Ronson took some of my questions and gave his perspective on those circumstances, and where the game might take him from here on. Based on his determination, skill, and love for skateboarding, I’m betting we’ll see much more of him in 2012.

Dustin: You rode for DNA, which was a solid company but wasn’t in that top tier. It seemed that many of the riders were dudes who were underrated, and some ended up blowing up (P-rod) but others kind of faded away (Micah). What was that experience like, and was it your first legit sponsor?

Ronson: By the time I got on, Paul had already been riding for DNA for a minute and had already parted ways with them. At that time they were revamping the whole team – they added a bunch of new dudes from all over. We all clicked and became good friends. My experience with DNA in the beginning was amazing… Definitely a great life experience as we all got to travel together and skate all these rad places. It was a great thing for that time period. However, after a couple years on DNA, I started to realize that I had an insatiable hunger to progress with my skating and my friends at the time weren’t on the same page; they seemed to be complacent with where they were with skateboarding. So that showed me it was time to move on and to continue progressing to the full potential that I knew I was capable of. Yeah, I was still in high school when I got picked up by DNA skateboards and they were my first legit sponsor. Crazy to think I knew nothing about the business aspect side of skateboarding or how it worked, we all gotta go through that though. All I knew at the time was that I had a company that wanted to support me and my passion of skateboarding.

Dustin: How did you hook up with P-Rod for the first Forecast video? It seemed that your skills had progressed a lot by that time. Were you skating differently and pushing yourself more or was it just a natural progression? Was that part the one that really got you out there and into the public eye, so to speak?

Ronson: First I’d like to thank Paul for having my back and giving me that opportunity. Having a part in Forecast was huge for me! I had a bunch of footage stacked up and my buddy (James) Riff (videographer / editor) thought it would be good if he sent it to Paul to see if I could get a part in his Forecast video. I thank Mr. James Riff for sending my footage to Paul. Back then, he knew Paul a lot better than I did and that’s how I got my part. Before that, I felt like I was under the radar. I was skating differently, having fun, pushing myself, filming, shooting photo’s, grinding hard… putting all my being into skateboarding, that’s what felt right, and truly natural. I knew I wanted to take it to the next level, and when I achieve that then I always want to take it even further. Forecast definitely got me out there and showed the world my skateboarding. I was blessed to be given the opportunity to be in back-to-back videos, Forecast and A Time To Shine, which really gave me exposure. (It was) the best time of my life.

Dustin: By the time of your Transworld part, you were rocking Plan B boards and gear. What was the story? I remember that being around the time that Plan B had just reformed, so I was expecting you to be one of their core ams. It wasn’t long after that you switched to World. Can you explain that transition?

Ronson: I’m always getting asked about this. At the time, I expected to get on Plan B, I felt so confident that I didn’t have a backup plan. It was looking good, it was looking bright, I was hyping up & repping Plan B gear, and doing everything I was supposed to be doing. The team manager ended up telling me that they’re not putting on any ams at that time. I was a kid with big dreams and it felt like the air got let out of my balloon so to speak… I felt blind-sided, and let down, ya know? So when World approached me, offered me a contract, and then after a year to turn me pro and have my own product lines – I was ready, felt appreciated and wanted to (keep in mind that no other company was there for me at that time)… Even though I knew their reputation, at the beginning of riding for them things did feel right and were looking bright. I was hyped – they got a new owner, new TM, were revamping to a more relevant team, and working to change their image, but without any advice or guidance from people in my life to tell me that this was or wasn’t a good thing to do…I took it, I was inexperienced in business and naïve I’d say. Had I known then what I know now… things would’ve been much different with my decisions. Everything happens for a reason. It was definitely a learning experience that I grew from.

Dustin: You seem to be representing a lot of up-and-coming or more obscure companies rather than the big brands. Was this a conscious decision? What is it like to have to market yourself towards a certain style or genre in skating?

Ronson: That’s true; I represent and give props to those who support me. I’ve changed, matured, and learned a lot over the years… and refuse to compromise what I value, whether it’s a big or small brand. It’s not all just about the money, it must also be the right fit and have that mutual respect. I now know how to critique a company for their reputation, mission statement, what they can offer me and what I can offer them, if we are headed in the same direction, support, being part of a team, goals, etc. So if a company’s mission statement doesn’t instill similar values, or I’m not feeling their product, then we’re just not the right fit for each other, and I’ll leave it at that. However, I feel blacklisted; no really big companies have approached me since World. I get surprised at how some people think I still ride for them. It’s easy to get jaded in skateboarding. I really want to leave that part of my life behind me, as I’ve moved on from that experience. As for marketing – well it’s for sure time consuming, takes mad work, determination, and perseverance. I’ve been learning a lot of other skills along the way as well as further exploring my artistic side.

Dustin: Your YouTube videos get a lot of hits, and draw a lot of comparisons to PJ Ladd in your tech abilities and choice of terrain. One criticism I’ve seen a lot online is this idea of your style being too deliberate, for example the way your posture when you land and the way you push. How would you describe your own style, and how has it developed over the years?

Ronson: They do. Well if people say so, sure why not. PJ has helped me out and has been a favorite skater. Though, everyone has his own individual style which is shaped, developed, and refined through progression. My style and posture is a result of a badly broken clavicle that happened during the first week filming for my part in A Time To Shine. People don’t realize that I was wearing this awkward brace called The Figure-8 and in pain while having only three months to film my part, but there was no way I was going to let my injury cause me to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with Transworld! I live with this every day since I didn’t take a break to let it heal properly. I’ve just learned to accept and do my best with what I have, and to always push myself to consistently excel. Even though I still hear comments about my style and shit, I don’t take it personal because they just don’t know the facts. But now, because of this interview, they will know if they take time to read.

RONSON LAMBERT – TIMES OF CHANGE – NEW EXCLUSIVE FOOTAGE !!!

Dustin: I noticed that you seem to do a lot of your own promotion, and have developed a significant fan-base through your online networking and clips. Do you feel that this is part of your job as a pro skater? Do you think that you are ultimately responsible for the amount and quality of coverage that you get in mags and videos?

Ronson: Being a professional skateboarder, you’re an independent contractor; it’s up to you to make shit happen. Since I’m not currently riding for a board or shoe brand, it all depends on me to get that exposure and support I need in order to keep moving forward. I’ve lost a lot in my life in the last couple of years, and it’s made me really want skating that much more. I’ve taught myself a lot of useful traits because of what’s gone down. I have to push myself to get my own exposure that much more, so I’m always skating and doing what I need to be doing every day – it’s just a little under the radar. I feel like it’s up to me to learn all the necessary traits, and those skills to make it happen. I’ve seen lots of talented skateboarders get dropped by companies real fast; these dudes have all this potential and skill then all of a sudden they have no sponsors. And these skaters are driven, motivated, talented, have great attitudes and character, the whole package! They just don’t know how to get back into it. Without the support from your sponsors… it’s tough for sure. I know what that’s like!

Dustin: Your skating seems to blend the progressive tricks of the 90′s era with a more modern touch. What were some of your favorite videos growing up? Who are your favorite skaters of all time?

Ronson: The 90′s was the era I grew up in and pretty much defined my skating to where it’s at today. I feel privileged that I grew up in that time of transition where street skating was evolving at a fast pace. Back then my older brother was into skating and his buddy brought over the Second Hand Smoke Plan B vid. That was the very first skate video I watched. I couldn’t believe my eyes, I knew what skateboarding was, but damn I didn’t know how these dudes were flipping their boards or anything. I was determined to learn how to skateboard after watching that video, then got my first board from my older bro, from then on it became my sole passion… some favorite vids growing up: definitely Virtual Reality and Second Hand Smoke, Blind Video Days, those H-street videos, Trilogy, the Treefort video, XYZ Stars & Bars, Prime High 5, Planet Earth video, Alien Workshop Time Code, Etnies High Five, Rhythm Genesis, Girl Mouse, Rodney vs. Daewon, Toy Machine Welcome to Hell, the list could go on…

My all-time favorite skaters: Guy Mariano, Keenan Milton (RIP), Daewon Song, Ronnie Creager, Andrew Reynolds, John Cardiel, Josh Kalis, Paul Rodriguez, JB Gillet, Nyjah Houston, The list could go on…

Dustin: Do you encounter a lot of politics and negativity in your role as a sponsored skater? It seems that the climate for pros now has become more competitive, and that the number of young rippers getting exposure has exploded in this internet era of skating. How do you deal?

Ronson: I do deal with the politics and my share of being hated on. I just stay grounded and true to myself and always keep my focus on skating. Times have definitely changed with the advances in technology. I remember it was all mainly about putting video parts out and that’s what your sponsors expected, and was how you got your street cred, that and if your sponsors ran ads in mags then that was a bonus. But as skateboarding grows so do your sponsors’ expectations, and so do most companies. Now it’s changed to contests that were really never too important for most skaters and brands. But over these years contests seem to be all that matters in order to make decent money and to attract the bigger brands. Ams make decent money if they place well in contests these days and they have them often too. It’s a little harder since I’ve turned pro. I feel likes it’s been tough to get into these contests unless you receive an “invite,” or through your sponsors if they have connects, yeah, that part is not easy to deal with… there’ve been many contests I’ve been wanting to get up in the mix at.

Dustin: You seem to incorporate a lot of creativity into your tricks, and your manual combos remind me of Brezinski at times. When you select tricks to film, what are your considerations? Do you feel that spots are equally important? What would your ideal video part consist of for yourself?

Ronson: I don’t really plan ahead. I like to just go. (It’s just) being a street skater, because you never know what you’ll end up skating, especially when you’re somewhere new skateboarding. That’s the best thing. When I get to a new spot, my mind goes crazy thinking of all these tricks I wanna do… and I’ll try and do as many as I can at each spot until I feel satisfied or until we get kicked out. My considerations are that spots are definitely important – every spot is different and gives its own degree of difficulty, for sure, and you have to work with it. Most spots aren’t perfect so despite how consistently you have your tricks on lock, sometimes it could just come down to something being wrong with the spot you’re skating; the right trick but the wrong spot. Most of the time we just work through it. But all around skate spots and the environment you’re skating in do make all the difference. I like skating everything! My ideal video part would consist of spots definitely all over the world. Ledges, gaps, rails, hubba’s, manny pads… a blend of everything would be ideal.

Dustin: How have your family and friends responded to your success in skating? Were they pretty supportive growing up? Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Ronson: Family and friends have been really supportive of my skateboarding. Growing up, coming from absolutely nothing my family left everything then we moved out here to California in the early 90’s. Being a skater was tough but my parents recognized how much I loved skateboarding and it kept me out of trouble and away from things I would have gotten into. Skateboarding kept me focused, so they were real supportive. Being a little street kid and a skateboarder in the 90’s in those raw and pure times – we were looked at as straight hoodrats, taggers, gangsters, shit you name it. When I saw my first ever skate video though, from that day on I knew skateboarding was what I wanted. I could finally control this imagination and dreams of mine and manifest them through skateboarding. At that time, I didn’t realize how much that decision would change my life in a way that there wouldn’t be any words to describe.

10 years from now, I want to still be shredding, innovating, dropping video parts. I see myself as a successful business owner / partner, and fully established and respected in my industry. A supporter of underprivileged children… I really want to be in a position to give back, provide sponsorships and to help those in need, and ones that have helped me in those difficult times.

Lizard King, and his gang of merry pranksters, will be embarking on a Southwest tour next month from February 4-15. Check out the dates and locations below and come out and experience the passion as Lizard, Neen Williams, The Nuge, Richie Belton, Jon Dickson, Figgy, Thomas Bonilla, and Matt Mumford turn on, drop in, and trip out in the desert sun.

Saturday, Feb. 4: CCS, Ventura, 2:00pm signing

Pacific View Mall

33101-1 East Main Street

Ventura, CA 93003

805-650-3754

Sunday, Feb. 5: Cowtown, 5:00pm demo

5708 W. Union Hills Rd.

Glendale, AZ 85308

623-580-5124

Tuesday, Feb. 7: Industrial Ride Shop, 5:00pm signing

Arrowhead Mall

7700 W. Arrowhead Town Ctr., Suite. #2172

Glendale, AZ 85308

623-776-7000

Wednesday, Feb. 8: BLX Skate Shop, 4:00pm signing

35 E. Toole Avenue

Tucson, AZ 85701

520-622-5858

Saturday, Feb. 11: Crooks Skate Shop, 12:00pm signing

5640 Montana Avenue

El Paso, TX 79925

915-775-0493

Saturday, Feb. 11: Sunland Park Skate Plaza, 3:00pm demo

4800 McNutt Road

Sunland Park, NM 88068

575-448-1758

Wednesday, Feb. 15: Pharmacy Board Shop, 3:00pm signing

1920 E. Serene Ave. 500-2

Las Vegas, NV 89123

702-614-9591

Check It!

Last year, the SUPRA team embarked on a European tour. The tour marked the first time in the company’s recent history that the entire team would be traveling together. So it was decided, long before the tour had even been booked, that a team photo would be shot in London. Read the full story here!

Jim Greco started his skateboarding life as a rowdy young kid from New Haven Connecticut who hung out with Tim Upson and was known for his determination. One of the younger riders to bring Birdhouse skateboards to new levels, alongside Andrew Reynolds, Greco really started to take off when he, Reynolds and the rest of the infamous Warner Avenue mob holding down Huntington Beach Calif. began to reall branch out in their style and their approach to skateboarding. Not long after, the crew decided to take the means of production into their own hands and kicked off Baker skateboards, which has soared in popularity from its inception. Most recently, Greco has grown with Baker and sparked Deathwish skateboards as well as Baker Boys Distribution. Our guy Tadashi Yamaoda caught up with Greco in Los Angeles and got the scoop in Greco’s latest projects while filming some tricks at Brandon Biebel’s private skatepark.

Due to the light parade on Central & rain we are CHANGING THE LOCATION of the BTL5 Video Premiere. It will not be at Cowtown on Central… were moving it indoors to our old Cowtown location on the NW Corner of 51st Ave & Thunderbird. It will still be free and the time of 8:30pm will remain the same.

NEW LOCATION: 13834 N. 51st Ave (NW corner of 51st Ave & Thunderbird)

The Misfits are an American rock band often recognized as the progenitors of the horror punk subgenre, blending punk rock and other musical influences with horror film themes and imagery. Founded in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey by singer and songwriter Glenn Danzig, the group had a fluctuating lineup during its first six years with Danzig and bassist Jerry Only as the only consistent members. During this time they released several EPs and singles and, with Only’s brother Doyle as guitarist, the albums Walk Among Us (1982) and Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood (1983), both considered touchstones of the early-1980s hardcore punk movement. The Misfits disbanded in 1983 and Danzig went on to form Samhain and then Danzig. Several albums of reissued and previously unreleased material were issued after the group’s dissolution, and their music became influential to punk rock, heavy metal, and alternative rock music of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
After a series of legal battles with Danzig, Only and Doyle regained the rights to record and perform as the Misfits. They formed a new version of the band in 1995 with singer Michale Graves and drummer Dr. Chud. This incarnation of the Misfits had a sound much more rooted in heavy metal, and released the albums American Psycho (1997) and Famous Monsters (1999) before dissolving in 2000. Jerry Only then took over lead vocals and recruited former Black Flag guitarist Dez Cadena and former Ramones drummer Marky Ramone for a Misfits 25th Anniversary tour. This lineup released an album of cover songs entitled Project 1950 and toured for several years. In 2005 Ramone was replaced by Robo, who had played with Black Flag in the early 1980s and had also previously been the Misfits’ drummer from 1982 to 1983. This lineup released a single titled “Land of the Dead” in 2009. The Misfits’ current lineup of Only, Cadena, and drummer Eric “Chupacabra” Arce released a new album titled The Devil’s Rain in October 2011.

On Tuesday night, Jeremy Elkin’s latest video Poisonous Products debuted at two fully-packed screenings in NYC. Starting tonight, see what all the hype is about as Color Magazine brings Poisonous Products to 7 big screens across Canada & US.

Toronto – Boston – Ottawa – Calgary

Montreal – Vancouver – Detroit

November 25 (TONIGHT!)

TORONTO

The Baitshop
358 Dufferin St. (enter from the alley, Milky Way)

Doors @ 8pm, video starts at 9:30pm so come early!

Facebook RSVP here

November 25 (TONIGHT!)

BOSTON

Wonder Bar
186 Harvard Ave, Allston, Boston

6pm, all ages! Also premiering Shake Junt’s Chicken Bone Nowison!

Facebook RSVP here

November 27

OTTAWA

Mayfair Theatre
1074 Bank St.

Two screenings AND premiering with Aaron Cayer’s new film While You Were on Facebook!
7pm all ages
9pm 19+

Facebook RSVP here

November 29

VANCOUVER

London Pub
700 Main St.

Doors at 8pm, video at 9pm as part of Lazy Tuesday Skate Night… get there early!
19+

Featuring Joel DuFresne photography exhibit

Facebook RSVP here

December 2

DETROIT

Jim’s Loft
2120 Michigan Ave

Doors at 9pm, 21+

Facebook RSVP here

December 3

CALGARY

The Source
930 17th Ave SW

8pm, all ages

Also premiering Shake Junt’s Chicken Bone Nowison!

Facebook RSVP here

December 7

MONTREAL

Salon Officiel
351 Rue Roy Est

8pm, 18+

Also premiering Shake Junt’s Chicken Bone Nowison!

Facebook RSVP here

On the final day of the TF, we’re is hosting a fundraiser for Tony Evjenth, the former éS (and Matix) team manager that passed away in late October.

November 20th, 1-4pm
etnies TF
20162 Windrow Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630

Tony is survived by his girlfriend Laura and their unborn son Maverick.
Everyone involved would really appreciate your support to help raise money for the Tony Evjenth Memorial Fund.
If you can’t make it to the event on Sunday you can also donate online: http://helpingclouds.com/tony-evjenth

Ps. Help promote the event and post the flyer on your personal Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
#neverforgettonyevjenth

This Halloween, SUPRA is releasing a Matt Mumford Vaider Low in commemoration of the dark holiday that is All Hollow’s Eve. The diabolical black suede upper is accentuated with pumpkin orange highlights:

Orange crown applique.
Spider web sock liner graphic that echoes Mumford’s elbow tattoo.
Orange visa terry lining.
Custom orange/black “Mumford” heel tab branding.
Orange sole and white foxing with black pinstripes.

Screwpop Tool, LLC introduces it’s newly patented and ultra compact skate tool -”Tricky WrenchTM”.

The Tricky WrenchTM is quite possibly the smallest most functional skate-tool in the World. Designed to fit on keyring or carabiner clip, Tricky WrenchTM offers the following tools when needed most:

9/16″ Wrench
1/2″ Socket Driver
3/8″ Socket Driver
Phillips #2
Allen #10
Bottle Opener

The Tricky WrenchTM is unique in that it easily transforms into a full-size tool within seconds – literally. By reorienting the self-locking hexagonal key, it dubs as an extendable handle for leveraging adjustment of wheels and kingpins. Independently, the Tools two parts also work together for attaching and removing trucks by utilizing the hexagonal key along with the main tool body.
Screwpop Tool, LLC is proud to offer the Tricky WrenchTM to distributors, retailers and skateboarders through their website – www.trickywrench.com.
For further information about the Tricky WrenchTM, please contact Screwpop Tool, LLC at sales@trickywrench.com or by calling 816-600-2855.

Bakerboys Dist is proud to officially welcome BAKER SKATEBOARDS.

560 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222-3913 · Get Directions
Phone +1 (718) 349-3859