Diva Amy's Road Glide

Diva Amy's  Road Glide
Welcome to Viva La Diva I post once a week about my adventures on my Harley Davidson Motorcycle, my shopping, my great places to visit and get bites to eat, I hope you enjoy and always comment and or email me with ideas, suggestions or anything ! * Amy Skaling 818 - 519 - 7842 Email is: divamy@teamdiva.com

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Fearsome Foursome Travel to Bisbee













Two weeks ago, I took off from Carefree, AZ. with my Aspen motorcycle buddies to explore southeast Arizona. Me on my trusty Diva Glide, Brother Will on his bad ass Harley Wide Glide, Roy and Dave on their brand new BMW enduro/touring R1200 GS bikes. .


We travelled east of Phoenix, Az. on Hwy 60 to Apache Junction, south on Hwy 79 through Florence. We went around the city limits of Tucson, Az. hooking up with I10 east to Hwy 80 south to Bisbee, Az.


My friend, Jay Allen, owner of the Broken Spoke Saloons---who lives in Bisbee, had drinks waiting for us at Santiago's ---the local Mexican joint. We met our fabulous hosts, Tamara and Mike Page, who own our hotel, San Ramon, Santiago's, Bisbee Grill, and Bisbee Coffee Company. It was election night---a crazy atmosphere with lots of festivity....and shots---results of the election much to Will's disappointment---but he still rallied. Hotel San Ramon is right above Santiago--darling rooms with thoughtful amenities--right down to the home baked cookies on the bedside tables! It is within walking distance of everything.


We hit the road after breakfast at the Copper Queen Hotel, right next door---the place and the people were quite colorful!! We toured Jay Allen's home and garage--it was a boarding house for all the miners in it's day--some of the ghosts still live there! We then explored the town of Tombstone--had Buffalo burgers for lunch and toured the Bird Cage Theater and hang outs of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday--loose women, cards, guns, and whiskey---perfect for us. Heading east--we rode to the top of Chiricahua National Monument--check out the great self photo--shot right before Will's camera blew off the rock perch and down into the ravine! Breathtaking 360 degree views and chilly winds--race to the bottom! On the way home in the dark--I was in the lead--missed a turn and we rode dirt for a while to the main Hwy 80--Roy and Dave put their BMW's to the test to see how fast they could go --Will and I ate their dust! Low key, but great dinner at Bisbee Grill---miles and wind wore us out--but it's all good and wonderful...no shots tonight!

Breakfast was at the world famous Bisbee Breakfast Club---in one of the remodeled historical buildings right up the street from Jay's place--fab menu from chorizo and eggs to granola pancakes--the boys finally filled up their bellies for the morning! Off to Agua Prieta, Mexico just south of Douglas---we followed some deported illegals across the border, and felt lucky to be us---guess this is one of the biggest crossings in the area. We were off to shop ...not much here....but the farmacia was a must stop for the Diva to buy Retin A! We had lunch at Jay's suggested place called La Reforma (muy picante!)--made some friends there who drove us back close to the border. The great thing about my three dudes is that they love to take it all in with lots of photos---we shot a great one at the abandoned train station there on the Mexican side of the border. Check all the photos out in my gallery on the web site! Back to Bisbee and while the guys took the copper mine tour--I walked the streets to shop. I was well rewarded with shops full of antiques, resale treasures, turquoise jewelry, vintage cowboy boots, and lots of galleries. My favorite was 55MAIN--met the owner, Cristina Plascencia, and loved the assortment of art there--I think she needs some Team Diva hats! Cafe Roka was our place for dinner--(be sure to make reservations!) Entering the place the smells are incredible--housed on Main street in one of the old building with the tall metal stamped ceiling--food was incredible--and met a darling couple trying to have a romantic dinner (he was shipping off to Iraq soon)--romantic???.....not if we can have anything to do with it!!! WE then dragged them to the Stock Exchange (the historical bar in town) with lots of live entertainment--and a band too!!

After 3 jam packed nights and days in the area--we said good bye to all our new friends--and hit the road for the Kartchner Caverns. This place was discovered in the '70's and it is not to be believed. We watched the movie and took the tour--(make reservations for the tour!) and it was incredible--a MUST SEE. A force of nature at it's best! Mounted up and toured the Saguaro National Park--lots of cactus--then off to ride to the top of Mt.Lemon slightly north of Tucson. It is hard to believe we started with cactus and ended up at the top with evergreen trees and a ski area! The guys had a coasting race to the bottom--hilarious to watch as I followed them.

After a chilly ride back through Florence--we made it home in the dark--the days are just not long enough for us to get it all in! We figured we rode close to 800 miles--saw everything we could--the BMW boys even saw more travelling on the dirt. I am a lucky Diva to have such a great posse to ride with and explore. Those who were curious---- we let them know that I was their parole officer--trying to keep them in line--one woman said I wasn't doing a very good job...o well.... Diva has a lot on her plate!! In reality--they took great care of me--I really did feel like the Diva!

Check out my other photos on Team Diva web site, http://teamdiva.com/

Also--check out my calendar---I will be in Las Vegas for Rodeo Finals--set up at Sand's Expo Dec. 4-13, and will have a personal appearance at Hacienda Harley of Scottsdale on Dec. 13---if you are in the area--come see me!

I hope you all have a nice Turkey Day--get out and enjoy!

Viva la Diva (aka P.O.)

Links:












Photos:
Riding upper Main in Bisbee
Hotel San Ramon
Saguaro National Park
Chiricaua National Monument
Diva and Jay Allen

Monday, November 3, 2008

Diva Rides to Southern California for LOVE RIDE











Last Friday, Wolfgang and I hopped on our bikes and rode from Carefree, Arizona to Newport Beach, Ca. His wife, Kiki drove a car with us through all the back roads we could find. Riding with the Wolf aka. The Chopper King is a good experience as he knows all the back roads to anywhere! We started out on the Carefree Hwy to Hwy 60 all the way to Interstate 10 west. Perfect weather and lunch at Nancy's Cafe in Quartzite....when is the last time you had a canned, cinnamon marinated apple slice served with your food??? Hitting southern California on a Friday afternoon could have it's problems--but on a motorcycle--the carpool lane was the way to roll... I was in Newport Beach at sunset. Wolf and Kiki travelled on to Santa Monica and I stayed with Aunt Susie in NB. Riding down Jamboree I could smell and feel the ocean air---felt great after a long, hot ride though the desert!

Saturday morning I met Yaya Diva Susie and her daughter Megan at Starbucks to catch up and off to see Stefan, Stascha and family at their store, Stefan Kaelin's on Pacific Coast Hwy in Newport Beach. We were busy designing scarves and beanies I will make for them this winter--they also have a store in Aspen!! Lunch was with Aunt Susie at Rusty Pelican on Coast Hwy---we dined with a full view of the harbor and yachts and such fabulous food--I recommend the tuna Pokey!!!That afternoon I rode the bike south on PCH through Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach to the Ritz Carleton in Dana Point--my old stomping grounds. The ride was fabulous--and on my way back north to Newport--dear old friend Fitzy passed me --I yelled to him wanting to know how he recognized me---how could you not on the Diva Glide???
Bright and early in the fog, thick as pea soup, I took off Sunday morning for Glendale to ride in the LOVE RIDE--it didn't clear up till I got to the exit for Glendale---another weather condition I will add to my riding experiences! I was a vendor at the Pomona Fairgrounds last year for this event--so I didn't get to participate in the parade ride. I heard there were at least 30,000 bikes riding in the event this year.Wolfgang got me into the VIP area and as you can see--I saw lots of friends and had photo ops with Nancy and Willie G. Davidson (we had met at Daytona Bike Week this past spring) and Peter Fonda--one of the original Easy Riders! Jay Leno was the grand marshall and MC, and Lorenzo Lamas sang the national anthem. I also met Mike Metzger ...aka, The Godfather of freestyle motocross!!! He is also a tattoo artist--and son Sam was totally impressed with this encounter!! My only regret is that my bike wasn't near so I could show it off---need to work on those credentials for next year!!! Once the engines started at the front of the procession--it took at least an hour for me to actually start my bike and move inch by inch down the parade route---lots of waving, peace signs, and thumbs up as we passed the crowds--and once we hit the Interstate 210--every overpass had cheering crowds as well. It only took an hour to ride to Pomona Fairgrounds and I cruised the show and saw all my vendor buddies--they said it finally was busy that day only--bummer since they had been there since Thursday. I hung out with Tory and Russell Mitchell at Exile Cycles---love those guys! It was too hot to check out the concerts--but I could hear them--Foo Fighters and ZZ Top performed. My ride back to Newport Beach was easy--carpool lane again--and got even more thumbs up and waves from fellow travellers.

Monday---Wolf, Kiki and I headed south to San Diego and we girls stopped off in Encinitas to see my dear divas at Hansen's--funny enough--they were having a Bogner clinic!!! They made time to come see the Diva Glide and take some pics--and lots of hugs--I miss that gang!We stayed in La Jolla at Claudia and Bill's "barn" on their estate in Pottery Canyon--peaceful and cozy!
Tuesday we were off for Arizona the scenic way. We stopped in Julian for lunch and killer apple pie--wonderful twisty windy roads--then to Salton Sea and through the Joshua Tree National Park north of I 10 ---I had never seen this park in all the years driving back an forth--it is a fabulous road in great condition and perfect for nice turns on the bike. We went through Twenty Nine Palms and back on to HWY 60 again through Wickenberg to Carefree Hwy--all in all a total of 12 hours to get home--with lots of stops! I loved every minute of the travels with the Wolf and his Queen. I am ready to go again!!

This week I am off with the boys from Aspen to explore the south eastern part of Arizona--staying in Bisbee for a few nights!!
Viva la Diva!!!

Photos:
Hansen's Divas
Fiereks and Kaelins
Russell Mitchell
Peter Fonda
Nancy and Willi G Davidson
Links:

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Daytona Biketoberfest



















I travelled to Daytona Beach for Biketoberfest last week--I fly--- and ship all my Diva Goods--wish I had my bike there--but it's just too damn far to ride...perhaps someday I will do it!!!

I set up in my usual spot at Arlen Ness store at Destination Daytona right off I95. The great news is that I have been doing these events for enough years that at least 75% of my customers were returning Divas!! It is always great to see everyone --some I get to see twice a year with Bike Week in March! My little Diva Store looked great--Shelly always gives me a great spot in her store. I also get to stay at her and Deano's Daytona Shores condo--right on the beach (as if there is time to enjoy it!) We hit a fundraiser Carrie Rapp organized at the Dog House on Main St. in Daytona for the troops--you will see some of the lovely Divas who entertained the crowd! Dave Perewitz, Christian (Sucker Punch Sally's), Billy Lane, and more were there to contribute for the cause!

Second night there I went to keep Tiffany company as she finished up her shoulder tattoo with Jeff over at Shamrock. I just love hanging out there--and of course he and I designed a new piece of art for me. It turned out fabulous--neon pink leopard rose with a "Dia de la Diva" skull --complete with lime green , orange, turquoise colors--it is on the top of my foot--and he used a tiny little needle. I told dear Jeff that it hurt worse than labor pains--but it was all worth it!!!

Vinnie and Cody from V-Force along with dad, Mr. D were right across from the store--and it was so fun to see them again. Michele Smith had her new hauler parked on the J&P lot--selling her Tribal Cowboy apparel and Team Diva hats! Ami from Miami Ink came up for the day as he is designing bikes with Christian at Sucker Punch Sally's--we had a fun little photo shoot--trying to get him to smile--(a grin is the best I got out of him!)

I always love spending time with my Daytona family--and especially being with Shelly---it was fate the day we met in ASPEN at her dad's Harley Store years ago--I went from a person who loved wearing HD gear to owning 2 of them and riding all I can----and getting in motorcycle biz----mucho thanks to my dear Shelly!!

Tomorrow I hit the road to Southern California with Wolfgang so we can ride in the LOVE RIDE--maybe I will run into Jay Leno---stay tuned!!!


"We're never gonna survive...unless we get a little crazy" SEAL


Viva la Diva

Diva links:
http://www.brucerossmeyer.com/ Destination Daytona
Shamrock Tatto shop 386-677-7670 Jeff (behind Corbin on Hwy 1A)


Diva photos:
1. Diva and more Divas
2. Michele Smith from American Thunder
3. Tattoo Jeff working on Diva
4. Ami from Miami Ink
5. Shelly on her balcony overlooking the Atlantic Ocean

check my photo gallery http://www.teamdiva.com/ for more photos from the event

Friday, October 10, 2008

Diva Rides Park City to Las Vegas for Bike Fest







I took off last Friday from Park City----reluctantly as the skies were dark--but there were pockets of blue. In the mountains you never know what will hit--and it was chilly as well. I said good bye to all the fall colors and knew I would be in the heat of Las Vegas soon on my way to Arizona. I needed to get back to my warehouse in Carefree, AZ. to pack up my merchandise for Daytona Biketoberfest. I decided to stop in Las Vegas on the way! I lucked out and didn't hit any rain---stayed on the interstate 15 the whole way. The sun was already down when I rode into St. George --didn't want to ride Virgin River Canyon south of there in the dark. Up early the next morning--and it was raining. I suited up --looking so attractive and especially slim with all the layers--but at least I was pretty dry. I will take rain and chill vs. hotter than hell like it was last trip in August! I had a funny moment--here I was in the curves of the Virgin River Canyon, in the rain--"She Bangs" by Ricky Martin plays on my shuffle--had to laugh to myself!!! Guess you haven't lived till you have experienced moments like this!!!


I rolled in to LV--went straight to Krista's house so I could wash off the bike--now it is bright sun and warm. I have to have a sparkling bike to go to Hard Rock! I talked son Sam into riding over from Phoenix and we were meeting there for lunch. He got caught in some funky cold weather--hard on the poor kid as his Road King has big 'ol apes with no windshield! He is not as lucky as his Diva Mom who has the Klockwerks windshield and a face shield on my big helmet! After a wonderful lunch at 24/7 and enough hugs from all the Valet and Bellmen hunks there--we rolled down the strip to Cashman's Center to check out Vegas Bike Fest. Parking lot was full-- I was happy for my vendor friends--but they charged $15 per head to get in to shop-- I am wondering how that went over with everyone??? Seemed like a good crowd--and the question was ---were they buying???? Frank at Nino 925 seemed busy and I spent time with Kevin at Paul Yaffe Originals--they were selling and talking a lot!! I also saw my buddy El Pitts who had a fabulous chopper on display that he built--very sparkley paint--I think he did it in my honor!! In the parking lot , the Diva Glide was getting lots of attention---it's a perfect bike for the LV crowd! Sam and I made it back to Krista's to chill--we had a great dinner in north LV on Rancho Dr. at the Charcoal Room, inside the Santa Fe Station Casino--it was a quiet, relaxing dining experience---good for us after sensory overload!


Next morning, Sam and I left around 11am and hit the Hoover Dam at peak traffic. It was a giant balancing act for me as I had way too heavy of luggage ( all my silver jewelry?) and traffic was backed up way before the check point. It was a crystal clear day--so lots wanted to see the dam--we took some dam pictures!! The rest of the ride was nice--(at least I didn't get another ticket!) I love that Diva and Son were riding together--fun to look over and see him with me! WE met Grandy Zildjian in Wickenberg at Anita's Cocina for an early Mexican dinner--and headed home to Carefree. I love the silhouettes of the saguaros in the desert--and I could even smell some pinon firewood burning--Diva is back in the desert!

I head to Daytona Oct. 14--hope you see you at Biketoberfest --I will be in my usual spot at Arlen Ness store at Destination Daytona! I will have some new and wonderful Diva delights!!! Come see me!

Viva la Diva


Photos:

Raining in Virgin River Canyon

HRH Guys

Kevin Bailey of Paul Yaffe Originals

El Pitts and chopper

Diva and Son at the Hoover Dam


Diva Links:



http://www.vegasview.com/ for Santa Fe Station and the Charcoal Room

Monday, September 29, 2008

Park City HD Best Buddies Event






Last Sunday I attended the Fall Ride sponsored by Intermountain Harley Davidson. It was a ride from the Salt Lake City dealership to Park City Wasatch Brew Pub parking lot on upper main here in Park City. They had a great turnout and yummy bar-b-q in the lot--weather cooperated--it was a gorgeous fall day with lots of colors. I got to meet Joe Timmons and his wife--the owner of Salt Lake HD, Park City HD, and South Valley HD shops. What a great couple--and they had a raffle with all kinds of great HD goodies to give. The event benefited the Best Buddies program here in Utah--and lots of the kids from the program got to take a ride on a Harley--talk about HUGE grins!!! They really liked the Diva Glide--and as you can see--we took a group shot with some of the Team Members! I also met Justin Hask the director of the program---looks like he has done a great job with this program and its members!!

This week I will be shipping my goods from here in Park City to Daytona Beach to get ready for the rally Oct. 16. This Friday I will ride the Diva Glide to our place in Arizona so I can ship my Diva goods from our warehouse to Daytona as well. I will be set up as I always am at the Arlen Ness store at Destination Daytona starting Oct. 16. Come see me!!

Stay tuned--ought to be a great ride!!

Viva la Diva!!


Diva Links
Diva Photos
1. Diva Glide and crowd
2. Diva with Joe Timmons
3. Best Buddies Group with Justin
4. Raffle winner of the pink jacket, Josh
5. Diva and Cop friends


Friday, September 26, 2008

Oktoberfest at Snowbird, Utah






Last Sunday we hopped on the bikes and rode down Parley's Canyon and up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird, Utah. It was a picture perfect day....leaves were starting to turn and a little crisp in the air! These festivities last for 5 weeks to celebrate Octoberfest---and what a great setting to drink beer!! They had a huge tent set up at the base of the ski area--complete with all the Bavarian flags and lots of little tents with vendors selling everything from Bavarian pretzels to fabulous different flavors of brew. On stage in the tent an Oomp pa pa Band and lots of chicken dancing for our entertainment. We had a Bavarian lunch of weiss wurst and German potato salad along with spatzle. No meal from Germany would be complete without some apple strudel--we all shared a piece.....it wasn't as good as Bonnie's on Aspen mountain--but we had no problem eating every last crumb! I kept thinking of Klaus Obermeyer and Wolfgang and Kiki Fierek---they will be celebrating this holiday in TRUE German style!!

The ride back was gorgeous---made me wish we were going further than home to Park City--I am ready for a long one!!!!!

Check out my new cowboy hat designs--an airbrushed cross lined with Swarovski crystals--available in black with silver and cream with pink or silver.

Go to my web site for more details--under products, airbrushed.


Love needing a jacket and chaps to chase the chill !!!! Fall is upon us here in the mountains!

VIVA la DIVA!!!


Diva Links:




Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Diva visits Klockwerks Team at Bonneville Salt Flats







Last Saturday we made the trek to the Bonneville Salt Flats west of Salt Lake City, UT. Some of you may have seen "The Fastest Indian" starring Anthony Hopkins--a true story about Burt Munro from New Zealand and his adventures travelling to the Salt Flats and racing his Indian motorcycle on the flats. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it!

We drove right on the flats--and eerie feeling --could have been on white white sand or snow--kept reminding my self it was salt! Felt like Ice Road Truckers!

Laura and Brian Klock and team and crew were all set up for the week to kick some ass and set some land speed records. The team had 4 entrants--all women! Laura, and her 2 daughters (Erika and Kaylee) and Big Joe's wife , Michelle. I had gotten to know this gang while staying with them during Sturgis--so it was fun to see them in action on the flats. They had raced all week and this was the last day--after racing , the crew has to break down the motors on the bikes so the officials can measure each piece of the motor to make sure it is the class engine they were entered. Laura broke the record (which was hers from last year) by clocking 153.906 mph on her Road Glide Bagger! They have also set a record for being the only "Mother /Daughters" team on the salt. All four women set records--make sure to check out their web site to read more about the week.

We also ran into Jay Allen--the owner of the Broken Spoke Saloons and Campgrounds--he was also racing for the week.

Some of the contraptions that were custom built were pretty amusing to see ---and some really vintage motorcycles. There was also a solar powered motorcycle--tons of sun out there for that one!!

I am so proud of the Team Klockwerk Racing Divas--I told them I need to put crystals on their bikes so they will go even faster!


Fall is on it's way--leaves are turning up here in the mountains--stay tuned as we hit Octoberfest at Snowbird!!

Viva las Divas!!


Diva links:





Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Viva la Diva rides to Viva Las Vegas






Last Friday I blasted south on I15 to Las Vegas, NV from Park City, UT. The ride was fairly pleasant for interstate riding---until I got to southern Utah in the afternoon. I got off the freeway to cool off and visit with the gang at the Zion, UT Harley Davidson dealership and do a little shopping...although it's hard to look like a Diva when you are road weary with heat!! Back in the saddle and talk about heat--it was a blasting inferno at 85mph for a few more hours till I hit the outer edges of Las Vegas--and then it got even hotter along with traffic. I couldn't get to my home away from home fast enough...that would be Hard Rock Hotel. The boys there helped me unload the bags off the bike --and they are so glad these days I AM on the bike--- so my luggage and crap I bring are limited...fitting on one cart vs. the three I used to fill up when I drove! I love those guys (valet and bellman)and Diva Kym.

It was a nice gathering there with my kids, as Adrienne flew from Salt Lake City UT, and Sammy (with friend Zoe) drove from Phoenix. They came to help Diva mom get ready or the trunk show in the retail store for Saturday and Sunday. Sammy had to detail, drain the fluids, and push the bike into the store at Hard Rock. We placed it front and center for maximum attention---goal achieved ---all day and all night--while we all sold Swarovski crystalled do rags and REHAB cowboy hats. You haven't lived until you work a couple of days on the floor of this retail store--never a dull moment! What a great crowd--all there for the love of drink and fun! There were plenty of fellow biker friends shopping-- loved meeting and chatting with them. I ran into an old friend I have known from biker and rodeo days , Donnie aka Hollywood Yates aka The Wolf on American Gladiators---I was so glad to catch up with him!

Saturday night we were treated to a pool party of our own at Krista's (my dear friend and the buyer/manager of all retail at HRH) fabulous home --she lives in a mid-century abode in the oldest neighborhood in Las Vegas--lots of character. ...to match her! We dined on her home cooked fare alfresco listening to SEAL after many dips in her pool--what a night!

The next 3 days I shopped the MAGIC, POOL, and PROJECT trade shows. I decided to not have my own booth --so I am able to really check out all the shows and shop for goods to buy for my rallies along with my own gear. Showing at these shows these days is very pricey, and I am still trying to figure out my niche for which show I should be in--so for now ---I try to cover it all. Along the way...I see tons of friends who are the retailers shopping as well as all my pals who are showing. As you can see on this blog or my web site photo gallery --I have some "celebrity" shots... Kimbo Slice ---a "famous" and really handsome(???) fighter sponsored by Tap Out, and Paul Wall--a rapper with a diamond grill, and also Ami and Chris from Miami Ink. I also was able to attend a fashion show at Cary Hart's new club, Wasted Space. Silver Star was the fashion show sponsor, it was great to see Charis and Luke with their posse including the Ying Yang Twins.

As you might notice--not a lot of time for eating--but we did manage to hit the "gas station sushi" place across Harmon from HRH in the strip mall--it was terrific and I am not exaggerating when I say only Japanese spoken there--busy with all the Japanese attending all the trade shows--so we knew we were in the right place for the best sushi! We also hit 24/7 Lucky's for plenty of meals--made better by meeting the head chef, Natalie, (she liked my bike, and I like her food!)

Six nights in Las Vegas, NV takes its toll--but I rallied and hit the road to head home all in one shot. I was energized the minute I got off I15 at Cedar City, UT on Hwy 14. I love those mountains and all the curvy roads. I passed the jewel blue Navajo Lake and coral colored Cedar Breaks, and hooked into Hwy 89 north. It was a long day--but I made it--needing a warm layer once I hit Provo.

The Diva Glide served me well another trip, and once again I was glad to be back in my own bed...to recover!!!

More great shots on my web site----go there!

Viva and Viva Divas and Las Vegas


Diva Photos

1. Diva Glide at Hard Rock Las Vegas, NV

2. The Wolf

3. Diva's new boyfriend Kimbo Slice

4. Ami and Chris with Diva Jr.

5. Playmates on the Diva Glide


Diva Link:


Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Famous Bikebuilders in Sturgis






I was lucky enough to attend the Builders Breakfast while I was in Sturgis. I have gotten to know these guys through the years and they are always full of creativity with their product and their lives. I love how they each have their own signature style and seem to genuinely enjoy times like this when they get to give each other that hug, pat on the back, and some big teasing. Egos?? what egos!!!

Diva photos:

1.Builder group shot

2. Keno and Chica

3. Zack and Cory Ness

4. Russel from Exile

5. Billy Lane at Micheal Lichter's party
Make sure to check out more Sturgis photos on my photo gallery
If your travels take you to Las Vegas this weekend, come see me and the Diva Glide at the Hard Rock Hotel as I will be doing a trunk show in the retail shop this Saturday and Sunday. I will have an incredible selection of Swarovski crystalled do rags--various designs including Pink Taco and Rehab.
Viva la Diva in Viva Las Vegas!!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Diva rides to Sturgis, South Dakota






Sturgis celebrated it's 68th anniversary this August, and I rode there from Park City to join in all the activities. Sturgis, South Dakota is the Mecca for all motorcyclists and I suggest for all who are curious to attend at least once in a lifetime. Some want more and attend every year. I didn't have a formal booth, but my hats were with Hawg Tyd under Paula's watchful eye out at Black Hills Harley Davidson. I also donated hats and beater T-shirts for the Breast Cancer Ladies Day at TOP 50.


My ride over took 2 days--it's approx. 700 miles--stopped in Lander, Wyo. first day lunch, Gannet Grill-- on Hwy 28 and 789. Wolfgang would love this stop--it's on Main street--an old bar with hearty home made food. Stopped for the night in Thermopolis, Wyo. This place is famous for having the largest hot springs in the world--love that sulphur smell! Checked in to the Holiday Inn --nice to park right in front of the room,--but the hotel is in sore need of a heavy duty remodel...it's a dump! Nicest place to eat was in our hotel--Safari Club--good news ---free coupons for wine at dinner---bad news...wine choices were chablis, rose, and burgundy!!

Second day ride was a lot nicer than first--went over Powder River Pass, past Big Horn Ski Area--Hwy 16--so chilly, I thought it would snow.I had to stop and layer up!! Down the hill into Buffalo and I90 heading east. I needed a tire for my rear and found Woody at his shop in Sundance, Wyo. He and his crew were great about getting me back on the road in less than an hour--Woody loved riding my Diva Glide through his neighborhood...takes a real man to do that! Got stopped by Wyoming Highway Patrol--going 82mph in a 75mph on the interstate. The officer loved my bike and just gave me a warning!! I was not so lucky a few days later and got a ticket for 47mph in at 35mph--in South Dakota--this officer liked the bike...but not enough to let me off!!!


First stop was in Spearfish, S. D. to visit with Paul Yaffe and Susie Q. at the Holiday Inn--then up to Hamster Hill. I signed the banner they had in Click's garage, shed more tears for him and all of us who miss him terribly. Afterwards, I ran into the Ness girls--lots of hugs and discussion of my latest "bling" creations. Off to find my place to sleep for the visit in Sturgis. I was lucky enough to stay in the big house Laura and Brian Klock had rented for the event for their staff and strays. I am their "Diva" stray--and was happy to have a quiet place to rest my weary head...even if it was 1.5 miles on gravel--I didn't need to cocktail anyway!!


First night --found Shelly and staff out at Thunderdome and tagged along to the VIP viewing area for KID ROCK concert out at the famous Buffalo Chip campground. Thanks to Christian of Sucker Punch Sally's who had the party at the VIP area---we were able to see the Kid really well. He rocked for hours--he loves this gang--as they can rev their engines to show support and appreciation for him!


Next morning was the Bike Builder's Breakfast at the Broken Spoke in Sturgis. I saw all the boys and will write a separate blog about the event---it was a success and great to see them--and they got to see the Diva Glide--as I had a primo parking spot in front thanks to Jim Betlach, Darcy's dad--Darcy did a great job bringing all the guys together!


Time to cruise Main in Sturgis--what a feat--so crowded--got interviewed by local T.V. station--and the crowd liked the bling on the Diva Glide! I parked the bike at the Arlen Ness rig and went to visit my buddies--including Betty and Charlie over at Lindy Bars--and my 4 legged boyfriend, Sparkey. Couldn't quite get in to the fine cuisine on Main--fried pork chops and turkey legs--at least there was fresh squeezed lemonade! Took off to be with Shelly inside her rig (from Destination Daytona HD) and experienced a severe tornado warning...sirens and all. Thank goodness the hail didn't happen--lots of bikes outside-- I rode mine into the Thunderdome for protection--meanwhile, became a part of the Motorcycle as Art show by Michael Lichter. He did a great job--nice appetizers, great company , and beautiful photos and bikes to marvel. Storm cleared and we were able to ride home after all.


Next morning I visited everyone at Black Hills Harley Davidson. My hats were on display with Paula, saw Mark at Big Ear, and met Cody and Vinnie from V-Force--they used to be with Orange County Choppers. Vinnie's dad (Mr.D) is their sales manager-- we had a nice visit. Best part of a very full day was my 1.5 hour massage in Rapid City--the only way this Diva gets through it all. I had a great respite from the heat and noise at Blue Sky Day Spa right on Mt. Rushmore highway. Took off from there to visit Mt. Rushmore--it is a phenomenal achievement--and I even met Nick Clifford who actually worked on the monument---he was in the gift shop at the memorial signing his book..he is 87 years young!! Hopped on the highway to ride the loop to Deadwood--it is a beautiful ride--woodsy and winding though the hills. Visited with Bandanna Linda at the KOA campground and had a nice dinner with brother Will from Aspen. Deadwood has such charm and tons of history--Calamity Jane and Buffalo Bill lived and died there.


Thursday was ladies day at Top 50 --rode in a breast cancer ride and met some incredible women. My son Sam will be excited to know I hung out with darling Jessie Combs who has had her own Extreme 4x4 show on TV--she actually designs and builds 4 wheel and 2 wheel designs. Laura Klock ( woman speed record on a bagger) led us on a lovely ride through the hills. Tyna Bower organized a nice auction, awards, and fashion show. I was flattered to be a part of it all. Save the boobs!!


Early to rise and headed out for Park City around 7am --I rode back the same route I rode there. It was great weather for the first half of the day--then rainstorms for the afternoon. I set an all time record for myself and rode 740 miles all in one shot. It was definitely the lure of sleeping in my own bed that kept me goin'.


I loved this trip--experiencing all I could in just a few short days. I will remember the smell of sulphur, fresh cut morning hay, pine trees on the mountain passes, and pungent sagebrush after the rains. My motorcycle family has grown with new acquaintances--and it was wonderful to see those I love and know already!


Diva's Links

http://www.landerbar.com/ great lunch stop in Lander , Wyo.

Woody's Repair 307-283-2269 Sundance, Wyo. near border of S.D.



http://www.lichterphoto.com/ Micheal Lichter motorcycle photographer

http://top50rallypark.com/ cool place to visit ecit#46 off I90 towards Rapid City

http://www.kustombaggers.com/ Laura and Brian Klock's company

http://www.jessiecombs.com/ metal fabricator and one hot chick!


Diva's photos

1. Too fast in Wyo.

2. Main St. Sturgis, south Dakota

3. Men of Mt. Rushmore

4. Diva Breast Cancer Riders posing for Michael Lichter

5. Is there such a place???

Watch for my next blog about the bike builders and all my fun photos!

Viva la Divas and.... watch your speed!!!!!