Representin’ hard for the skate scene in France is Logo Skateboard. To take things to the next level, Logo has created a new lineup that they call SOFA. Whereas the regular Logo skateboard decks and apparel have an animated and almost playful style to them, the SOFA line is very distinct with its usage of urban art and iconography. The four skateboard decks in the SOFA lineup, each limited to 100 pieces, are created by artists Kid Acne, Kev Grey, Jaek el Diablo, and Hourquet Jumo. I have to say that the designs are so nice and fresh that it would almost be a shame to mess up the deck by skating on it. And it doesn’t stop there. Each deck is matched up with a tshirt that cleverly highlights a part of the deck graphic. Get up off your sofa and check out the real SOFA lineup for yourself.

A lot of people dream about starting their own businesses, but it’s only those bold few who actually take a shot at it, and with a lot of hard work and a little luck, manage to turn nothing into something. David and Matt, two college kids from Albuquerque, New Mexico, dreamed about seeing their fellow students wearing clothing that they created. To make that dream a reality, the duo took matters into their own hands by purchasing screen printing supplies and churning out a few shirts. The shirts sold well, and now their clothing brand, Rhidden Clothing Co., has a fully functional website that showcases both men’s and women’s apparel. Rhidden is off to a great start so far and with continued hard work (and a little luck right here from JoshSpear.com), I’m sure everyone will be up on this brand in no time.

I’m in Chicago right now for a quick presentation–unfortunately not long enough to check out much more than a few places. I did however get a chance to eat at Japonais, an exceptional Japanese restaurant right on the Chicago River. It has won the hearts of many locals and everyone I spoke with recommended it with high-praise– and they were right. Try the Rainbow Capriccio, the sweet potato roll, and probably almost anything else on the menu and you’ll be quite satisfied. Others in my party had the Kobe Prime Rib with Uni Hollandaise sauce and they all said it was delicious. Don’t fret– you don’t need to plan a trip out to the windy city to get a taste. Japonais has plans of opening in New York on Union Square and in Las Vegas at the Mirage Hotel this summer.