The Small Town Skate Shop has been opened since May 2007, but in early October Ariel Ries, owner and recent graduate of NIU, awoke to something that changed the dynamic of the shop.

“I live down the street from the store and at three or four in the morning someone was pounding on my door saying ‘Your store is on fire,'” Ries said.

The fire was caused by a water heater on the second floor. The water from the heater put out the fire and simultaneously caused excessive water damage to the store.

“We [were able to save] some of the products, but a lot was ruined,” Ries said.

Vital items to the business such as the register and credit card machine were ruined by the water damage. After a rough two months, the store reopened to the public in early December 2007.

“We didn’t expect to be closed for two months,” Ries said.

Ries says that most people in DeKalb have been very supportive of the shop, and of course there are those that disagree with the shops location.

“It’s a mixed reaction, but at least it’s a reaction,” Ries said.

The store offers a lot for the customers other than skateboards and accessories.

The store has an ongoing board design contest.

“We love people sending in their designs,” Ries said. “We’re waiting for the perfect design. We want to make an actual board out of it.

Last spring the shop offered a break dancing workshop and they plan to offer one again this spring. Things like skate lessons are always a possibility said Ries.

“I’d like to do a yoga workshop too,” Ries said, “but I don’t have anyone qualified to teach it.”

The Small Town Skate Shop brings a new feeling to downtown DeKalb, by having something in the store for those young and old.