Billy’s Boardshop is not just skateboards – it’s so much more. An easy way to remember what they are all about is to think of the letter “S.” When you think Billy’s think Snow, Surf and Skate, but that’s not all. This time of year think Shorts, Swimwear, Sunglasses and Sandals. For those of you who are regulars, you always think Service, year round.

Did you know Billy’s Boardshop (2227 Honolulu Ave., www.billysboardshop.com) has been around the Montrose area since 1976? Michelle Fishback, the store manager since 2000, says out of all the S’s they are known for, skateboards are no. 1. Since I know nothing about skateboarding, she was very patient with all of my questions.

I thought you just went in, picked one up and you were on your way. I didn’t realize that these are customized, built from the ground up. You start with a deck, which runs about $48, add wheels, trucks (which hold the wheels on), and bearings that make the wheels spin. The whole thing costs around $100 and can go up to $140 with “the works.” They also carry safety equipment, helmets and pads.

Now that you are up to date, the next time you see a skateboarder you can shock him by saying, “Hey dude, nice deck!”

Billy’s owner Tim Shepard takes his skateboarding seriously. Just about every Saturday morning you can find him at the La Cañada Community Center at 9 a.m. giving lessons. You will learn everything you need in his four week course that runs around $70. Summer is the perfect time to learn, too.

When I listed all those “S’s” did I remember to say Shoes? Billy’s has one of the best collections of Tom’s Shoes you’ll find. You can get your skate shoes by Adidas and Vans too.  They also have Sportswear specializing in brands like Billabong, O’Neill, Obey, LRG, Neff and more. Their primary audience is the teen crowd – both girls and boys.

If you enjoyed this article, stop in and say “Nice deck” to Tim and Michelle. Or you can just poke your head in and make a “ssssss” sound. They are open seven days a week, most nights ’til 8.     Thank you for shopping the unique stores of The Montrose Shopping Park.

See you next week!