My first bike is going to be...

...I don't know. Lately I have been on Craigslist looking for the best "first bike". I've talked to some "intermediate riders" (cause I don't know how many years or experience they may have, but they have more than me). Some have told me to go with a 1000, others say a 750. Lately I've been told that a 600, 750, and a 1000 sit on the same frame. Can you say puzzled?

I am looking for a bike that I can ride to enjoy. I am not trying to race anybody. I'm not joining "Team Suzuki" (yet I love zuks), not betting, cutting, any of that lingo they use on the race track. Simply ride and participate in group rides.

Here are a few I ran up on:

09 Suzuki 750

This bike is mine if I can afford it!!! But I can't so I can only dream right now. I don't know what got me into liking Suzuki's but I have seen some nices ones and have wanted one since. Now I would not start off with an 09...maybe a 03 or 04 depending on the price. Here is the review from http://www.reviewcentre.com/ :

Everything about the 750 is awesome. Looks, handling, power, easy to ride, good for all round use and very comfartable. Best bike I have ever owned by far. This is a great first and last bike. it's only as fast as you want it to go. Don't take my word for it though, look around and people will say the same.

"Only as fast as you want it to go". Yeah, that's what I'm talking about. Can't be running around like Buzz Lightyear. Okay, next bike...

2006 R1 Raven

My favorite color is blue, however I will setttle for an all black bike. This "Raven" reminds me of the poem by Edgar Allan Poe called "The Raven". To me, that was the best piece of writting he's ever done.

Here is a review I found on the bike from Powersports Network (http://www.powersportsnetwork.com/):

This bike is off the hook. I just bought it bout 3 weeks ago. The first week I put 500 miles on it. I can't unleash the power within until I hit 1000 miles; I take care of my toys. BUT, I already had a chance to take it 70 in first, and I'll tell you what, HOLY MOLY, wheelies NO problem. Even in third at that speed, still no problem, maybe even forth. Unbelievable pull, raced a 954RR and beat it. Gas mileage is 55 average, ripping on it and cruising. I go riding in groups of 15 and more, and I get all the stares and chicks. I owned a 500EX then a 636 after, I'll tell you what. HUGE DIFFERENCE.

Hmm...I just remembered I have a friend who always talks about his "fast ass R1". I might have to inquire about that.

99 Ninja 500

I don't think I like the body of it. I like the color but it almost seems retro. Here is the review on it:

THE EX500 IS A GREAT WAY TO GET INTO SPORTBIKING WITH A BUDGET. NO MATTER WHAT YOU BUY YOU WILL MODIFY IT SO MIGHT AS WELL SAVE MONEY ON THE BIKE AND BUY SOME GOOD AFTERMARKET BITS. I HAVE NO COMPLAINTS WITH MINE. I'VE DONE A FEW MODS AND IT WILL RUN A GOOD 125 TO 130 AND HAS A RESPECTABLE LAUNCH OUT OF THE HOLE. I'VE DONE A MUZZY PIPE, JETS, BRAKE PADS, LOWER GEARING, AND REMOVED THE CENTER STAND AND THE REAR FENDER. IT HAS A HOME MADE PLATE FRAME AND LITTLE TURN SIGNALS MOUNTED UNDER THE REAR FAIRING ON EITHER SIDE OF THE TIRE. IN ESSENCE, IT'S A GREAT TOY. THE ONLY DOWNSIDE TO IT IS THE SUSPENSION (ONE MUST BE CAREFUL AND RIDE SMOOTHLY TO AVOID UPSETTING THE CHASSIS WHICH ACTUALLY MAKES YOU A BETTER RIDER!!!!). BUT THE SUSPENSION IS UPGRADABLE AS WELL.

**scratching head** we'll see about that one. It does look like a motorcycle they should train you on in the safety classes instead of those small dirtbikes with the big bobble head helmets. This is my opinion on this folks so please don't get offended.

At any rate, I am going to keep on searching and hopefully when the new year rolls around, I will be at Midlands Technical College completing the motorcycle safety course. I have had my permit for 3 years. There have been several things in my life that had prohibit me from getting my bike sooner. Now I am more than ready.

Will keep you updated on how that goes.

`

Self Riders MC 2nd Anniversary Party

(Ms. Doright of Trinity MSC dancing with a local at Self Riders MC Party)

This past weekend, Ms. Doright (who also happens to be my sister) and I both attended Self Riders MC 2nd Anniversary at the National Guard Armory in Columbia. We got there about 11pm (cause I had to work earlier that evening) and the parking lot was packed when we got there.

(Baby Sue, President of the Midlands Biker Association, getting her dance on at Self Riders MC Anniversary)

Self Riders are actually based out of Eastover, SC, which is in Richland County and is considered part of the Columbia metro area. This club is also a member of the Midlands Bikers Association, a coalition of bikers, clubs, and supporters who meet monthly to discuss new ideas and ways to improve in our clubs and our communities.

"The World Famous Johnny Green" was on the one's and two's. I know this man has been out dj-ing for a long time. The music was really on point. Considering we had the line dancing thing going all night, it was definitely good. I am into line dancing, especially if it is with members of the MBA. I figure it's definitely a way to get the weight off and keep it off. The MBA All Stars kept it on lock (The MBA All Stars is something I came up with. The line dancing thing seem to be something that an all star line up can only coordinate). Oh yeah, the leader of the MBA All Stars is Lo-Cell from Philadelphia Traveler's MC (I mean she is really the line dancing queen of the motorcycle community).

(Self Riders MC present themselves to everyone at their 2nd Anniversary Party)

Alot of the local clubs in Columbia came out to support, which is really great. If nothing else, local clubs need to come out and support each other. Too many times we have local clubs who are not supported by others because they are not what they considered long-timers or they are a small club. A smaller club needs just as much support as a larger club, and just because a club has only been on the scene for a year or two doesn't mean that they need to prove their standing so that you can attend their functions.

This is the first event I have attended by the group and I have throughly enjoyed myself. You might want to get ready for next year's event cause if it's anything like this year, it is going to be HOT!!!

Self Riders MC of Eastover, SC is a member of the Midlands Bikers Association

Visit the MBA online at http://www.myspace.com/mbaosc

MBA Events Listings on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/midlandsbikerassociation

Email the MBA: midlandsbikerassociation@gmail.com

My Weekend in the Upstate

I had a really great time this weekend. Starting off with Saturday, I along with my sister and her son went to the Furman/ GA Southern Football game. The game was held at Furman Univerity in Greenville, SC. A.J (my sister's son) is a recruit prospect for their football team. We didn't get to make it up there in time for the tour of the college (which is something he can schedule later) but we made it to the actual game. Even though Furman was losing, they have some loyal die hard fans. The campus is really nice. I know A. J has some other schools to check out before making the final decision, but I really hope he decides to go to Furman.

Since they were losing, we've decided to leave a half time and head on down to Greenwood, SC to check out Bikers United MC 2nd Annual Comedy Show and Party. The comedians were hilarious. Oh my gosh, we were laughing so hard. I just knew for sure I was going to laugh a hole in my stomach cause they were just that funny. I

The party is what really got me. The Hut was packed to the max in less than 30 minutes after the comedy show. DJ Slick Rick spinned the cuts and had the crowd dancing non-stop. There got to be like an army of 50 B.U. members and when I said they had to work the crowds at that party, they had to put in WORK. BJ must have been assigned hospitality duty cause he kept making sure if we (me, my sister, and Honey from Platinum Riders MC) were ok. Shouts out to him for making us feel welcome.

Folks even over worked the bathrooms cause they were on lock down for a minute.

After the party my sister and I decided to wait until the crowd cleared out. If you saw the number of beer bottles on the tables you would have sworn you were at Greens Liquor Store. I was told later on that the club paid the rental facility the clean up fee so that they would not have to deal with the mess. Hell, I don't think they want to deal with it either but since they got paid...

So just imagine if that party was hot like that, then imagine what the Christmas party is going to be like.

December 20, 2008.

I need to start looking for my dress right now!

I did take pictures, however it is just a matter of when my sister is going to take the SanDisk to Walmart and get those pics off. See her connector from the camera is messed up, so the camera will not download any pics which is full of crap. I have pics on their from this summer that needs to be upload. Don't worry, I have my own digital camera up on laway right now and I will definitely have it before this Christmas party. Just in case we do get them off of that crap of a camera, you can see them at http://www.myspace.com/diamond85242 or http://southernbikers.ning.com/profile/diamondstar.

Visit BU's website at http://www.bikersunitedmc.com

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bikersunitedmc

The Weekend Grind

Here's what's happening this weekend in the motorcycle world:

Want To Get Your Neighbors Mad? Try this...

Had to break in my new tire and brakes...My neighbors love me!!!




Here is a way to say hello to them.
Welcome to the neighborhood.

Twin Tours Taking the Trip to the Historic Inauguration

Twin Tours owners Derryl and Terryl Gadsen (aka Twin 1 and Twin 2, Band of Bruthaz MC) are taking their buses on the road to the historic inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. I talked to Terryl today and he said one out of their two buses are full; the other bus has about 30 seats left to fill.

Here are the cost details:

Trip cost is $495 a person (this will include the hotel ). There will be 4 persons to a room.

$100 deposit is required to reserve.

Remainding balance is due by January 1, 2009.

For more info, contact Terryl Gadsen at 843-343-3448


I tried posting the featured newsclip of the twins on one of my blogs but I have not been able to do so. I am going to try it again, but if you don't see it, then make sure you check out the link:

http://www.live5news.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp?vt1=v&clipFormat=flv&clipId1=3126593&at1=News&h1=Paying to witness history

Eastside Travelers MC Parties for A Cause This Weekend

The men of Eastside Travelers MC of Aiken, SC is doing it again by hosting another party. This time, they are partying for a good cause.

The club will collect can goods as part as their annual can food drive this Saturday at the Old Baby Grand in Aiken. Admission is $8 with 5 can goods or $10 without. Presidents are free with 5 can goods. I know everybody got some canned food in their cabinets :).

Eastside Travelers will also raffle off 10 turkeys. Raffle tix are $1 each and can be purchased by any member.

Come on out and support these men while they are partying for a cause. For more information you can contact Maverick (VP) through the CSRA Bikers Alliance Myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/csraallstars1.

The Weekend Grind

It's Friday once again. Here's what's happening this weekend:

Friday, October 31

Black Coffee Riders MC Halloween Party, $25 Gas Card prize for the funniest, scariest, most creative, most authentic, best dressed couple and best costumes. Donation $10. Billy's Place 616 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd.
Jacksonville, Florida

Dark Riders MC - Summerville, SC - Halloween Masquerade Party9pm - until @ B & H Banquet Hall 1505 W Hwy 78. Tickets $7 advance and$10 door. Free hor*deurves. POC Helen 843-412-1115 Rose 843-832-3908

Oct 31st MD Stealth Riders MC/SC/AC - Clinton, MD - 3rd Anniversary -Masked Meet n Greet @ Colony South Hotel (The Loft) 7401 Surratts Rd.800-537-1147. Rate $119 code Stealth. Saturday Anniversary Trophy Party9pm - 1am. Special Treat announced about the After Party. Donations$20 and more at the door. Prez free with colors. Elks Lodge 332 7350Temple Hills Rd. Temple Hill, MD. Mardi Gras style. Afterparty 1am -5am @ My Place 4410 Stamp Rod, Temple Hills, MD. $5 w/armband and $10w/o armband. Priority admission with armband. POC Daddy Mac202-528-4008 or Li Li 240-386-7221

Oct 31st - Nov 1st Milwaukee Cruisers MC - 2008 Grown & SexyAnniversary Weekend. Meet n Greet Friday @ Nostalgia Night Club 7155 N43rd St. Free with colors. Anniversary Party @ Elks Lodge 5555 W GoodHope Rd. $12 donation advance tickets available. Host hotel HiltonGarden Inn Milwaukee Park Plaza 11600 W Park Place. 414-359-9823. $79per night. POC Big D 414-688-4469.

Oct 31st - Nov 2nd Ruff Ryders - Fayetteville, NC - Heaven or HellWeekend. Meet n Greet @ Docks 126 Hay St. 7pm - 2am. Saturday Party @Bentley*s 119 Hay St 9pm - 2am. Farewell Brunch @ Sandpipers 411 NEastern Blvd. 11am - until. Host Hotel Radisson Prince Charles 450 HaySt. POC

Oct 31st UIC - Charleston, SC - Halloween Bash @ Alley Cats. POCWhodini 843-607-2363

Oct 31st - Nov 1 - Untamed Ryderz - Savannah, GA - Coming Out Party.Meet & Greet @ Abercorn behind Daiquiri Island 9pm - until. SaturdayParty 9pm - 2:45am at host hotel Holiday Inn on Abercorn. Tickets $15for one night and $20 for 2 nights and available by emailinguntamedryders@yahoo.com. POC Big Sexy 912-341-9259, Shawty912-667-1380 or Honey 912-704-7667

Oct 31st - Tru Ikonz MC Halloween Party, Club Nightlife 2864 DeansBridge Rd., Augusta, GA 30906; Prizes for best dressedmale/female/couple; Drink Specials and food; POC Pres. T-luv706-294-7003


Saturday, November 1
Hypnotic Ryders MC 3rd Anniversary Party, American Legion, North Augusta, SC

Platinum Divaz SC Coming Out Party, @ The Hut, Greenwood, SC

Rolling Spokes MC 4th Anniversary Party @ Marvins, Anderson, SC


Nov 1st 357 Ryderz - Greensboro, NC - Fish Fry @ SRS Motorsports 3112Sands Dr. 10am - 2:30pm. POC Shawty 336-587-7529


Nov 1st Blue Disciples & A.C.E - Norfolk, VA - The Purple PassionCostume Party @ Norfolk FOP 1111 Harmony Rd. Tickets $10 advance $15door. POC Dark Chocolate 757-676-9609

Nov 1st Carolina Knight Riders - Long, SC - Fish Fry Fundraiser toBenefit Joan Berkley who is Battling Cancer & Jamie DeWitt, Son ofPamela Dewitt, who is suffering from Kidney Failure. Fish fry 12noonuntil at Carolina Knight Riders Club house 2001 Star Bluff Rd. POC JohnGlover 843-267-9375


Nov 1st Fo Real Divas MC - Cornelius, NC - Chicken, hotdogs and Fish @BowDivas Mother House 120 Sylvania Ave. 11:30am - until. POC BowDiva704-449-9885 or Genuine 704-892-0408

Nov 1st Heaven*s Angels MC - Charlotte, NC - 2nd Anniversary @American Legion 1940 Donald Ross Rd 8pm - 1am. $10 advance or $10w/colors and $15 w/o colors at the door. Presidents free. POC Ms Hershey704-493-0303

Nov 1st Riders On A Mission - Broadnax, VA - Halloween Bash & CostumeParty @ Southside Bricklayers Lounge 5722 Boydton Plank Rd. BYOB. $10advance tickets. 10pm - 2am. POC Maurice 434-637-2073, Primetime434-247-9027, Redman 434-378-3077, T-Bird 434-594-5797 or Dninja434-637-5015

Nov 1st Scamboogie Riders Inc - Jacksonville, FL - 1st Annual Picnicand Dance. Picnic 12noon - until. Dance 8:30pm - 2am @ Knights ofColumbus 3920 Old Middleburg Rd N. 904-777-3909. $15 picnic and dance. $7 plate only $8 dance only. POC Brown Suga 904-235-9216 or LadyTaaasty 904-894-9501

Nov 1st Shake*M Off Ryderz SBC - Atlanta, GA - 4th Anniversary PartyTimbs and Stilettos @ Throwbacks Sports Bar 4847 Old National Hwy,College Park, GA. 9pm - 3am. Free food while it last. $10 regularadmission MAG $8. Presidents free in w/vest. POC Gizzle 678-437-9296 orCretin 404-966-4418

Nov 1st Sho Tyme Ryders - Burlington, NC - Presents the Oscars @ TheBarn Convention Center exit 164 on I85, Hillsborough, NC. $15 advanceand $20 door. Presidents free. Trophies for most rep male, female,co-ed and best dress as a movie character or theme. POC Birdman336-264-6156, Sista Big Bones 336-512-0740 or Kool Aid 336-264-4572

Nov 1st Street Divas MC - Knoxville, TN - 3rd Anniversary @ PhatsSports Grill 3920 Asheville Hwy. 9pm - 2am. Presidents and VicePresidents Free. Advance Tickets $6 and $10 at door. Host hotelLaquinta 7210 Saddlerack St 865-633-5100. $69 double. POC Queen B865-250-1786


Nov 1st Ruff Ryders *Keep Ya Swagg Bike and Car Wash*, 11-4pm atClub Moneys on Pio Nono Ave., Macon, GA 31206; POC Silk 256-7455 orDastorm 320-0246

Nov 2nd 85 South Renegades - Burlington, NC - Bike Nite @ Iquana*sBar and Billiards 405 Rocky Knoll Rd. Greensboro, NC. 5pm - until. $5w/ colors and $7 w/o colors. Drink specials $2 shooters and Coronas. POCLo Ki 336-457-5933

Special shouts to Slim Goodie (S.T.A.R. MC, Augusta, GA) for emailing this info!!!

Funeral Arrangements Set for Hudson's mother, brother, and nephew

October 30, 2008

FROM SUN-TIMES STAFF REPORTS
A private memorial service for Jennifer Hudson's slain mother, brother and nephew will be held Monday morning.

An announcement will be made Friday on whether a public service will be held, according to Hudson Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements.

The private service will be held at the Apostolic Church of God, 6320 S.

Dorchester. It is for invited guests only.

Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, 57, and brother, Jason Hudson, 29, were shot and killed Friday morning at their Englewood home. Julian King, the 7-year-old son of Jennifer Hudson's sister, Julia, was found dead Monday morning in Jason Hudson's SUV, which was taken from the home.

Julia Hudson's estranged husband, William Balfour, 27, has been named a person of interest in the slayings. He is being jailed on a probation violation. He has not been charged in the shootings.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for contributions to a newly created Hudson-King Domestic Violence Protection Fund, care of Seaway Bank and Trust, P.O. Box 19522, Chicago, IL, 60619.








If you are able to give, please do so.

The Hudson Family Tragedy: Update

The FBI confirms the 7 year child who was found in a white SUV is the nephew of Jennifer Hudson and the son of Julia Hudson.





Fam, remember to keep the sisters and the rest of the Hudson Family in your prayers during their loss.

Keep The Prayers Going For Our Dreamgirl

By now, most people have heard about the Friday morning shooting that claimed the lives of Jennifer Hudson's mother Darnell Donnerson and her brother Jason Hudson. Jennifer's nephew, 7 year old Julian King, has been missing since Friday. Julian is the son of Julia Hudson, Jennifer's sister.

The lastest as of 1pm today: Police have found a child's body in a white SUV. They believe it may be the body of Julian, although the child has not been officially identified. Officers also believe that the SUV belonged to Jason Hudson.

27 year old William Balfour has been taken in as a suspect but has not been charged. Balfour is the estranged husband of Julian. Various reports say Julia was upset because Balfour sold her car without her permission.

Balfour is currently on probation after being released from prison in May 2006 for attempted murder. Officials transferred him to the Illinois Department of Corrections this weekend after violating probation.

Neighbors say Balfour and Julia were not getting along, as Balfour threated to take her son away from her.

There are so many questions as to why this had to happen to Jennifer at such a high point of her life. Her self debut album has took off, with her first single "Spotlight" spinning on heavy rotation all over the airwaves. And Jennifer recently starred with Queen Latifiah and Alicia Keys in "The Secret Lives of Bees".

Whether you are a relative, friend, or even a fan of the former American Idol, we must continue to come together to keep her family in our prayers. Julia and Jennifer has both lost their mother and brother, and are missing a 7 year old child that they both love and adore. Continue to flood her blog pages with encouragement, wisdom, and support. We all want justice to be served in this tragedy.

If you are in a motorcycle/social/auto/truck club, especially if you are in the Chicago area, I urge you to show your support for our dreamgirl.

Jennifer you may or may not read this, but please believe that myself as well as everyone else here in South Carolina and Georgia have you in our prayers during this trying time.

Weekend Grind

Looking for something to do this weekend? Here's what's on the scoop:

Alpha ~Omega MC is celebrating their 5 year anniversary and things kick off tonight with a meet and greet at their host hotel. Saturday is a group bike ride and cookout, and Saturday night is the anniversary "Come Back" Party. Details on this event is on the flyer and in an earlier post.

Also this weekend, Platinum Riders MC is holding their 3rd Annual Pajama Party at the American Legion Post on Hampton Street in Aiken, SC. Admission is $10 for everyone. Club Presidents are free. For more information and directions contact Big Sexy at 803-215-2333.

This is all I have for now. Feel free to email me with any information that you may have at diamond85242@gmail.com.

See you all this weekend!!!

First Fridays by Cherlyn Michaels

Ever since I added Cherlyn Michaels as a friend on Myspace, I said I was going to read one of her books.

I've added her as a friend way back. However it was recently I was able to check out her book, "First Fridays". I read this book in one day cause it was so good.

The main character, Naja, is set on trying to start her own business. She decides to attend a first Fridays session after her close friend had been begging her to come out for a minute. She soon meets Russ, busy savvy looking person who pulls Naja in a deep spell. Naja's notions of not mixing business with pleasure is suddenly challenged. I can't tell all the details cause it would defeat the purpose of reading it. I can tell you, it's a book that is worth buying for your book collection.

Way to go Ms. Michaels!!! I give it two thumbs up!!!

Cherlyn Michaels is a member of the #1 Stunnas Motorsports and a writer for Urban Burnout, a online magazine catered to the motorcycle community.

http://www.cherlynmichaels.com/home.html

www.numberonestunnas.com

www.urbanburnout.com

Trinity MSC Member Travels to Barbados for Art Show

Trinity Motorcycle Social Club is proud to see one of it's very own members soar to new heights. LaToya Thompson, also known as Artistic Vision is one of several artist whose work was chosen to be in a traveling art show called "The Connection". This show traveled has traveled across the state of South Carolina in the cities of Anderson, Greenwood, Aiken, Beaufort, and North Charleston. The journey ends in Bridgetown Barbados where artist will go on a 5 day retreat on the island, attending various workshops and showcasing their work.

(LaToya shown here with DJ Prince Ice at Trinity MSC 3rd Annual Summer Jam)

LaToya is no stranger to the art scene, as her resume proves it. However The Connection is the most prestigous art show she has entered to date. The quilt titled "Queen" is featured in this exhibit.

LaToya says much of her work is inspired by visions that come to her in dreams. She also attributes her skill of quilting to her late grandmother.

LaToya is very much a multi tasker. When she is not on the road attending art shows and seminars, she is teaching kids how to master basic skills. She is a behaviorial therapeutic specialist at Hemingway Elementary School. She is also the mother of two, Sallena and Hakeem.

We congratulate her on her accomplishments and continue to wish her success!!!

LaToya "Artistic Vision" Thompson is the Event Coordinator for Trinity MSC, Columbia, SC

To see more of her vision, visit her myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/artisticvision06

A~N~O 5th Anniversary Comeback Party is This Weekend

Alpha~N~Omega MC. the all female motorcycle club in Columbia, SC will be celebrating 5 years as an organization. This year's theme is "Comeback Celebration". Here is the line up for the weekend:

Alpha~N~Omega 5th Anniversary "Come Back" Celebration!!
5TH ANNUAL "COMEBACK CELEBRATION" WWW.MYSPACE.COM/ALPHANOMEGAMC


Alpha~N~Omega 5th Anniversary "Come Back" Celebration!!

October 25, 2008
Fri Night: Social hour @ Host Hotel from 8pm-11pm (free food)
Sat Morning: escorted ride from hotel. kick stands up at 11am - 1pm
Sat Afternoon: 1:30pm-4pm Cook-Out at The Coop (free food and punch)
Sat Night: party at "The Coop" 9pm-2am (free food + cash bar)

ALL THIS FOR ONLY $10.00 (PRES FREE) pre sell tickets avail now.

Call any member~ THE COOP ~ 200 KEY ROAD~ COLUMBIA SC

HOST HOTEL...FT JACKSON INN & SUITES/BEST WESTERN 240 EAST EXCHANGE BLVD ~ COLUMBIA SC~ 29209 ~ 803-695-0666 ASK FOR THE SPECIAL A~N~O RATE OF $70.93 +Tax

~Contacts for more Information~ Joker 803-269-1198 Six-One 843-319-3686 Brown Shugga 910-286-9197 Chocolate 803-236-5643 Baby Girl 910-977-7658 Karamel 803-210-9892 Kohko 704-231-0248 Biter Sweet 910-261-4553

Da Mac: The Poet Phenom on 2 Wheels

If you would have ever told me that Da Mac wrote poetry, I would have said "You are lying. Seriously."

Well, being that I had been up half the night on Myspace, I decided to actually browse some profiles instead of just dropping off the usual comments.

Being that Mac is a friend on Myspace, as well as on the motorcycle scene, I decided to read one of his blogs. He had a few that he had written back in March of 2008 (which I didn't know until I opened it). Never mind that he had about 5 blogs written, with titles displayed on his page. The one that stands out is "Naked".

Hold the hell up...WHAT???

So you know I had to open that one FIRST! Any female who saw that would have been like, "Lemme read that!" The poem is very deep. All of his writings are deep and on point.

He is the first male rider I know who can actually write something that is so deep and meaningful.

I don't know if there are any poetry slams in the area, but Mac needs to be a headliner..or at least a special guest.

Want to be the judge? Check out his writings on his Myspace Page:

http://www.myspace.com/garcadamac

Da Mac is the Vice President of C.I.A (Cycles In Action) Georgia Chapter, Augusta, GA

Visit C.I.A's website at http://www.cyclesinaction-ga.com/

The Weekend Grind

A little rain will not keep anyone in the house this weekend. Here are the happenings going on in the motorcycle community this weekend:

-Fall Bike Gathering (October 18). Bikers are to meet at the Love Doctors MC Field in Sumter, SC at 11am. Kickstands up at 12 noon. This ride will proceed through 5 counties in 4 hours. There will also be a cookout after the ride. For more info, contact hard2pleasemc@yahoo.com .

-Independent Riders MC 8th Anniversary Party, VFW Lounge, 534 South Beltline, Columbia, SC 9pm-2am.

-Klassy Katz SC 1st Anniversary Party, GuestHouse Inn, Exit 18 off of I-20 (East or West), Aiken, SC 9pm-1:30am.

-Nasty Dogs MC Final Roll Call Party, American Legion, North Augusta, SC 9pm-2am

These are just a few events that are going on this weekend. You can also visit my Myspace page to check out the calendar of events at http://www.myspace.com/diamond85242.

To all have a good weekend and be safe on 2!!!

Platinum Riders MC To Host 3rd Annual Pajama Party October 25

Most people between Columbia and Augusta know that if you mention Platinum Riders MC the first name that comes to mind is "Big Sexy". Agnes "Big Sexy" Andrews has been a part of this organization for some time. She is a big player in the motorcycle community. Whether it's helping out with the Last Ride Committee, or volunteering with the Midlands Bikers Association, she is committed to the cause.

Big Sexy is the Secretary of Platinum Riders MC of Aiken, SC. They will be hosting their annual Pajama Party on October 25, 2009 at the American Legion on Hampton Street in Aiken, SC. This event is one of their two signature parties that are held during the year (the other is their annual anniversary party which is in February). Clubs from Aiken, Augusta, Columbia, Greenwood and surrounding areas come out and support these ladies every year.

The party starts at 9pm and don't stop till 2am. Admission is $10 and all club presidents are admitted for free. If you have any questions, you can email Big Sexy at lus432002@yahoo.com .

Tell her you heard about it from Diamond of Trinity MSC!!!

Bikergrind.com

Bikergrind.com is a new website (similar to Myspace) but caters specifically to motorycle and social clubs, independent riders, enthusiast, and the motorcycle community. The site has been up for a few months and it has a few members. For those who stop by and read my blog, please take the time visit the link http://www.bikergrind.com. Internet networking is becoming big, and it's a great way for us to spread the word about upcoming events and network with clubs near and far.

Yes!!!

My blogs have been unlocked!!! I am so happy. Recently I received an email saying my blogs were blocked, that probably it was just a error and they wanted to make sure that nothing was wrong with them. I already knew that nothing was wrong with them. I just finished a blog on my other page and saw that this blog has been unlocked. I am loving it. I will be back with more later.

Local Walmart Doesn't Accept Internet Coupons

This weekend, I decided to pick up some essentials from Walmart. I had with me my coupons that I clip weekly from Coupons.com. Every week I sign on to my Mypoints account and access Coupons.com so I can collect coupons and redeem them at various food and drug stores. Each time a coupon is redeemed, 10 points is added to my mypoints account.

Most places I shop take internet coupons. Walmart is a different story.

I had 4 coupons that I wanted to use that day: one for Lever 2000 bar soap, one for Minute Rice, one for Hamburger Helper (the regular kind), and one for Hamburger Helper Microwave Singles. I know I would haved saved at least $3 on my total order with the other groceries I had in my cart.

I go up to the self check out, and ring up the groceries as usual. I tried to scan my coupons and I got nothing. I tried several times before I asked an associate for assistance. She says, " I don't think we take those coupons."

"Why?" I asked. " I been here a couple of months ago and used coupons from the internet without a problem. It is the same coupon that you would find in the newspaper but on the internet."

"Well, let me go get the floor manager just to make sure," the associate replied.

By this time I was already heated because I am being held up. I don't like to be held up or hold anyone else up for that matter. Walmart is known to have 3 registers open and have 50 or so people waiting in line.

The associate comes back, this time with the floor manager. The floor manager says, "Ma'am we no longer take coupons from the internet."

"Any particular reason why?" I asked.

"Walmart doesn't get reimbursed for them," she answered.

This is what I'm thinking in my head: Walmart doesn't get reimbursed for the coupons that are on the internet but they are getting reimbursed for the same coupons that are in the newspaper? Am I missing something here? I looked at the coupons again which clearly states "Retailer: General Mills (one of the coupons I had in hand) will reimburse you face value of this coupon plus 8 cents if submitted in compliance with our redemption policy. Copy available upon request. Cash value 1/100 cent." Sounds like they were going to be reimbursed to me unless Walmart isn't following directions.

Just when people are trying to save pennies through these trying times, here go Walmart cutting out that middle man so they can gain more. I guess they say they already sell items at a discount cost. They don't need internet coupons. If that is the case then don't take any coupons.

If I knew that then I probably would not have bought those items there. However since I needed them, I went ahead and bought them. I made a mental note not to go to to Walmart if I had to use my internet coupons.

Just to make sure I wasn't crazy, I stopped at Kroger and picked up two items I had internet coupons for. I handed them to the cashier and she scanned them. Both were redeemed without a problem. Maybe Kroger is being reimbursed. They must be doing something right. Maybe they can share their findings with Walmart.

WingZone: The Best Wings in Downtown Columbia

WingZone is one of my favorite places to eat. Back when I was in college at the University of South Carolina, a few of my friends and I would get together and order wings at midnight. This was one of the many places you could order food from in the middle of the night. This is especially true if you did not have a car. WingZone was then located in 5 Points, home of the college hustle and bustle.

Now WingZone is located on Assembly Street, still close to USC but closer to the football stadium. Almost every pay period we get together and order one of the specials that they have to offer. I love the fact that they have 25 different flavor of wings, from mild to nuclear honey teriyaki. There is a flavor that will definitely fit your taste buds. They not only sell traditional wings/ They also sell boneless wings, fried shrimp, and sandwiches.

We order from WingZone so much from the office that we acutally get weekly specials through our emails. I think they should offer us a frequent merchant discount as much as we go. Today's special was 20 wings, 10 shrimp for $15.99. I along with another co-worker splits up the combo because it is cheaper to do it that way, and we are allowed to get two flavors for the wings. It works out pretty well and it is easy on the pocket too.

For all of you who have never tried WingZone, go ahead and check it out. You will definitely get your money's worth. Even if you don't live in Columbia, there are several locations in different states. Go to www.wingzone.com and see if there is a location near you.

Cruise Chronicles TV: The New Age in Media for the Motorcycle World

I have never met Bruce the Entrepreneur or the Cruise Chronicles TV team, yet i get plenty of text messages from him about updates on different motorcycle and social clubs in the U.S. I have seen one of his videos online. It is so great to see someone report on the motorcycle world in a positive light. Keep doing what you do! Hopefully you and the crew will be able to come down and check out the clubs in Columbia, SC, especially Trinity MSC and The Midlands Bikers Association.

Take a look at the work that they've done. Enjoy the video!!!

Myrtle Beach Gets First Lawsuit Against New Ordinances

Bikers and enthusiast are not going down without a fight.

Last week, Myrtle Beach City Council approved new city ordinances which mainly focuses around the annual bike rallies. There are two big bike rallies that are held in May: The Harley Davidson Spring Rally, and the Atlantic Beach Bikefest, which are around the last 3 weeks in the month.

There are a few angry citizens out there that want the rallies ended for good. They have ran up to city council demanding that they put an end to this. They want Myrtle Beach to be a family beach again. Was Myrtle Beach not a family beach before?

Some citizens say they feel like prisioners in their own homes when the rallies come to town. How could you possibly feel like you cannot leave out of your home? You as a resident CHOSE to move to Myrtle Beach, and if you did not realize it before, Myrtle Beach and the vicinity is a tourist destination, therefore there will be many festivals that take place not just in May but the entire summer. If you do not like where you are living, you can move.

At any rate, city council posted the ordinances, which could be viewed at myrtlebeachonline.com. While some of the ordinances may work out for the best, the main ones that people as bikers and enthusiast have a problem with is the helmet ordinance. The new ordinance states that those riding a motorcycle must wear a helmet. Problem with that is, South Carolina state law says otherwise:

SECTION 56-5-3660. Helmets shall be worn by operators and passengers under age twenty-one; helmet design; list of approved helmets.
It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of twenty-one to operate or ride upon a two-wheeled motorized vehicle unless he wears a protective helmet of a type approved by the department. Such a helmet must be equipped with either a neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides thereof. The department is hereby authorized to adopt and amend regulations covering the types of helmets and the specifications therefor and to establish and maintain a list of approved helmets which meet the specifications as established hereunder.

A Virginia law firm which specializes in motorcycle law has filed the first lawsuit against the city of Myrtle Beach. Their arguement (and many others) will be that a city ordinance cannot supercede state law. More lawsuits are soon to follow.

In an earlier article in the Myrtle Beach Sun, city council said they would be prepared for upcoming lawsuits, but will they really? Whether they want to believe it or not, the motorcycle industry brings in big bucks to the Grand Strand each year for the fall and spring rallies. For a city that has an amusement park already filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy (Hard Rock Park may have been in operation for a full year, but this 4 million dollar park has filed for bankruptcy), it would seem that you would not want to get rid of two events that have a strong sense of history to the area. As a matter of fact, why not focus on news stories that are REALLY important to the locals of the area. Since May, Myrtle Beach has focus on the bike rallies up to the current day as if there is nothing else to talk about. Now Myrtle Beach, Horry County, and the state of South Carolina will be on national spotlight AGAIN. The only news that fit to print for this state is how South Carolina turns away tourist, and how our education system still lags behind the majority of the United States.

Atlantic Beach: Unincorporated town or historic district?

The big news right now in the Grand Strand area of South Carolina is whether or not Atlantic Beach needs to continue as an unincorporated town, or join in with the city limits of North Myrtle Beach and become a historic district of the city. Atlantic Beach (also known as AB) has a lot of history behind it, especially for African Americans.

According to The South Carolina Parks and Tourism website, AB is known as "The Black Pearl". The town was formed by the Gullah/Geechie people of the Sea Islands of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Florida. During the segregation days, blacks were not allowed to visit neighboring Myrtle Beach. So for a day of fun and the sun, many black families gathered together to go to AB.

In 1980, The Carolina Knight Riders Motorcycle Club started the first "Atlantic Beach Bike Fest and Block Party." The event, which was small back then, has now grown to over 200 thousand attendees. This event is now known as "Atlantic Beach Bike Week" or to many "Black Bike Week"

I am a native of South Carolina, orginally from Hemingway, which is about an hour away from Atlantic Beach. By the time I was born, families of all races were able to go to any beach they wanted to. Atlantic Beach was a yearly trip for my family for Memorial Weekend (the same weekend that bike week is held). We would go to the beach and play in the water all day. We would later wash up, get dressed and head down to Myrtle Beach for the Pavilion. That was the best amusement park in South Carolina (I could write another blog about that). After a fun filled day, we would go home.

AB is going through a finanical bind, just like the rest of the country. Right now the options they have are to either to continue to operate as an unincorporated town, or become part of the North Myrtle Beach City limits offically, with the town of Atlantic Beach being marked as an historical district.

I do understand the town council wanting to continue to operate as a town, however if the funding is not available, then I think AB should join in officially with the city of North Myrtle Beach. For years, North Myrtle Beach has been policing their 4 blocks, assisting with the bike rally and other festivals that are near the vicinity. I think there is some fear that the identity and history would be stripped if becoming a part of NMB. Maybe those who are part of the town could still operate it, maintain it, making sure that history is preserved. AB could use some cleaning up of the streets. There was someone who suggested that a few hotels be built in the area but I don't think that would be good, especially when the main part of the bike festival is held there in that open area. What I do think would work is a sound stage in that open area. During the festival alot of shows, and concerts are held. With a sound stage present, there could be alot of outdoor concerts, festivals, art shows in this area and this would boost the economy of both AB and North Myrtle Beach. The bike festival is the only festival that is held for AB. Has anyone else ever considered hosting a community service event or cultural arts event there as well? If not, it is certainly worth looking into.

Whatever the outcome may be, I will always continue to visit Atlantic Beach, either as an unincorporated town or as a historic marker. There are some things that will never be erased, no matter how hard you try. This is one of them.