Don’t Commute … Scoot!

Every morning the radio mentions a few momentous events that occurred on this date in history. Here’s the list for March 15:

1493 – Christopher Columbus returns to Spain after 1st new world voyage

1672 – King Charles II enacts Declaration of Indulgence (I have no idea what this is, but it sounds good!)

1892 – NY State unveils automatic ballot booth (voting machine) (still in use!)

1985 – First .com domain created (symbolics.com)

2007 – Urban Village Scooters opens its doors!

This has been a tough winter. We started with two feet of snow before Christmas, and things never really got better.

Until now. Today is a sunny Saturday, and the temperature is supposed to get up around 40 degrees. Time to stop hibernating!

This morning I decided to ride into work. After disconnecting the Battery Tender and a quick check I fired up my RV250 and headed out. The sun had burned the roads clear of snow and ice (but watch out for those shady spots!) Good thing I dressed warmly!

The ride was invigorating. I hadn’t realized how much I missed being able to smell the fresh air. My full-face helmet wasn’t enough to stop my cheeks from getting rosy, and my fingers were numb inside the Thinsulate, but the all that just made my heart beat stronger. It was a great ride!

I know I won’t be able to ride every day this month, but it won’t be long until I can finally put the van away and just ride my scooter!

I’m a sucker for sidecars. I’ve written about the Stella sidecar we have here at the shop, a couple of the guys in the scooter club have them, and I go ga-ga any time I spot one – I have to go over and check it out up close.

I just found out about this home-built “luxury” sidecar that’s described as a mating between a motorcycle and a Lamborghini. I’m impressed! I wish I could make something like that! (Unfortunately I have neither the talent, time, or money.)

What do you think of it?

A post on Modern Buddy by ericalm led me to xtranormal.com, which has tools for creating simple animated videos. On a lark I put together this one:

Yes, the sale is real, and runs until Oct. 16, but what do you think of the video?

Here’s some incriminating evidence from Friday’s Tiki Party:

We managed to transform the showroom into a Tiki hut, complete with potted palms and grimacing idols.

In spite of near-blizzard conditions over two dozen scooter fans joined us.

A few people got into the spirit of thing and wore Hawaiian shirts.

An assortment of Buddies in different colors added to the festive atmosphere.

Some people just can't wait for spring!

With Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet playing in the background we were able to drive Winter away, at least for a little while. My thanks to everyone who joined us!

Let’s collect our mental energy to melt the snow and summon Spring!

We’re transforming Urban Village Scooters into a Polynesian Tiki Hut – complete with bamboo walls and a thatched roof (simulated, of course!)

You can help set the mood! Wear a Hawaiian shirt (or a grass skirt, if you like!) Prizes given for the best outfit.

We have free food (of course) and we’re offering 15% off everything in the shop.

As an added bonus, our first shipment of 2009 scooters is expected on Thursday, so come see what’s new from Genuine Scooters!

Remember, Tiki Party on Friday, Feb. 20, at Urban Village Scooters!

How many scooter models do you recognize in this?