New York * -- Australian * News channels report that graphic designer Dave Cornthwaite, from Swansea England *, has set the new world record for distance skateboarding. The 37-year old skateboarded 3,000 miles (4831km) to raise funds for charity. He broke the previous skateboarding distance record of 4830km, held by American Jack Smith, by just one kilometer.

Apparently Active Ride Shop and Mail Order has decided that selling blank decks is no longer in the best interest of their operation and the skateboard industry. The retailer announced that starting January 1st, 2007, they will no longer sell blank decks, hoping to create increased demand for silkscreened and pro model decks. Said Active owner Shane Wallace: "Blank deck sales make up a good portion of our skateboard sales, however, it's also supporting a sector of the market that is spinning out of control. ... before we know it, we'll be undercutting each other to make $2 on each board."

ABC News has run an article about Vans * sneakers, outlining their history and some public relations high points the brand has enjoyed, including being featured on Jeff Spicoli (as played by Sean Penn *) in the 1982 teen flick "Fast Times at Ridgemont High." Founded in 1966 by Paul Van Doren, the "Van Doren Rubber Company" began by selling custom made shoes directly to the public. "Back in the day, you could go to the fabric store, pick out your pattern, bring it to the Vans store, and they'd make you a pair of shoes in three weeks," said John Eshaya, head buyer for a Los Angeles * retailer. "My friends and I used to love doing that." Tony Alva * and Stacy Peralta * invented the blue Vans #95, called the "Era". In the 70s the brand developed the Sidestripe and Classic Slip-Ons, and in the 80s they expanded into shoes for other sports. But it was their classic shoes that made them famous. Vans is currently owned by VF Outdoor, which also owns the brands Lee Jeans, Wrangler, Jansport, EastPak, The North Face, Reef, Nautica * Sportswear, and others.

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