Western custodian rides a new hobby

When Western custodian Jim Reichart was younger he used to have an “I can’t” attitude when trying new things. As he got older, the word “can’t” started to disappear from his vocabulary to where now he doesn’t use the word.

In the spring, Reichart discovered a new hobby of making skateboard decks – specifically the user-friendly “longboard” design. His 10-year-old twin son and daughter each wanted their own longboards so they could ride around with their friends. Instead of going and buying them each a longboard, Reichart decided to try his hand at making them himself.

“I had never done this before, but I just went for it,” Reichart said. “I just took my time and planned things out.”

Reichart grew up not really knowing how to use tools or build things. His dad was raised in New York City and would have others fix things around the house, so he didn’t get much of chance to build or fix anything. It wasn’t until Reichart was older and home repairs came up that he started to get handier.

“I would just jump in and figure stuff out,” he said. “That’s how I’ve become sort of handy with tools.”

Reichart says it takes him about three hours total to make a longboard. He gets his supplies from local hardware stores and orders parts online. He has made three longboards so far, each costing around $90 to make.

Reichart started his journey at Western in the late 1970s as an undergraduate, working for the Associated Students while pursuing his degree. It wasn’t until 2002 that Reichart graduated from Western with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Riders around Bellingham have approached Reichart to ask him about the longboards he makes, expressing interest in stopping by his house and getting help putting their longboards together. Reichart has thought about selling his boards, but hasn’t pursued it yet.

For now, Reichart says he just enjoys making the longboards and riding them around parks in Bellingham with his kids. Despite a past of doubt, his new hobby has given him some newfound confidence.

“I completely changed my attitude,” Reichart said. “I’m more proactive and make things happen.”