I met Papu (the owner) probably in 2004 or so, back when he was working at a local board shop. Awesome guy, who's a true member of the Helena community. More impressive, he still remembers me, even though I might see him once a year or so now that I no longer live in Helena (or even Montana for that matter).
I walked in on Black Friday 2009, and Papu sees me and greets me warmly with a hug, and excited to see me. We chat a little, but it's busy.
Anyway, I love the designs of the shirts and things he sells. Locally designed, screened on American Apparel clothing - very nice.
The impact of the store on the community is impressive as well. It's been there for a little over two years (opened in 2007), but the number of cars and trucks I saw in town with fourOsix (a play on 406, Montana's area code) decals was impressive. They also have all ages shows in the store on weekends, which fills a much needed void for folks in the community, not to mention sponsoring local skate and board events.
On the way out of the store, I was surprised to see Moment skis in the window (handmade in Reno) - apparently he's one of three dealers in Montana.
Yea for super rad small businesses, finding their niche and doing well. read more