At the crux of every thriving skateboard scene is a brick and mortar store that plays a vital role in the foundation of its community. Laura, Trent Martin, and Ed Cox JR of Arizona’s Cowtown Skateboards have proven this true. Born out of necessity, Trent and Ed felt the missed representation of a core skate shop that supported the local community. Before Cowtown’s inception, a coalition of key figures that included Laura, Damon Alire, and Daniel Shircliff were already pushing for the development of a skatepark for the community—their efforts included engaging with the city, raising money, and hosting contests. In 1997, two events occurred that would forever change the course of skateboarding in Phoenix: the opening of Cowtown and Desert West Skatepark. The paths between Trent, Ed, Laura, Damon, and Daniel crossed throughout their various endeavors, each with similar goals: providing, fostering, and building a future for skateboarders in their community.