Fabulous Finds Friday: Homebase Skateshop
by Jana K. Hoffman; photos by Max Zahradnik
Just the other evening, I wandered into Homebase Skateshop in Bethlehem to view the latest Lehigh Valley Artists Network (LVAN) gallery installation “Furnitural Figures,” featuring furniture and other wooden items handcrafted by local artist Andy V. The exhibit boasts a collection of interesting shelves made from wood combined with other objects that have been smoothed, sculpted to perfection and hand-painted. There’s also an incredible, hand-crafted rocking chair on display: It’s tempting, but please don’t sit on it!
Now, I have visited Homebase many other times before, but this week I bring the shop to your attention for a very special and timely reason.
First, if you need a set of wheels this is a great place to start. No, I don’t mean those kinds of wheels! Homebase has dedicated an entire wall unit to skate decks–even limited edition Homebase decks–trucks and wheels from companies like Real Skateboards, Expedition, Organika, Thunder trucks, Spitfire wheels and so many more. Owned and operated by Andrew Po, who hires skateboarders, they know a thing or two about putting together a complete setup for you or your kids.
For those in need to update their summer basics, stop by the shop for the annual summer sale now until July 16 featuring men’s and select women’s clothing and shoes all on sale. With deals like Buy 1, Get 2 for 75% off on hoodies, jackets, shorts and hats; buy 2, get 1 free on ALL T-shirts; and even buy 1, bet 2 for 50% off ES, Cons, Nike, Fallen and Vans shoes, you can afford to outfit yourself from head-to-toe and still have a few bucks leftover to visit one of South Side Bethlehem’s delish restaurants. May I recommend Tulum? I just discovered it–although it’s been here for years.
Finally, after shopping your little heart out, head to the Bethlehem Skateplaza Grand Opening Celebration located across from Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem beginning next weekend on Friday, July 16 until Sunday, July 18.
Homebase owner Andrew Po and a collaboration of others including the City of Bethlehem, Erich Hornung, Chad Shaner and the local skateboarding and BMX community have made this project possible. Construction began during Spring 2010, and Phase One is ready for riders just in time for the Grand Opening, which will feature live music, skate and BMX demos, pro autograph sessions, raffles, giveaways and free skate and BMX time.
Gear up for the Grand Opening now! Homebase has become a prominent SouthSide business that has helped cultivate a genuine skateboarding community.
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Homebase Skateshop, 14 W. 4th Street, Bethlehem; 610-866-0540. Hours: Tuesday-Friday 12pm-8 pm; Saturday 11am-8 pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm.
Jana K. Hoffman is the editorial assistant and resident fashion and beauty expert for Lehigh Valley Style. An experienced and thrifty shopper, she will take you on her retail journeys and report back every other Friday.