L.V. Sage's Blog, page 4

Day Trip: Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear

With spring comes warmer weather and the thawing of snow in our local Southern California mountains. There’s nothing quite like turning off the freeway and heading up into higher elevations, twisty mountain roads and pine-scented fresh air.

Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear are located in the San Bernadino mountain range and are within easy riding distance of OC Motorcycle. Heading north on CA-57 you will then need to continue east on CA-60, then north again on CA-15 and east on CA-210 before hitting CA-18, known as the “Rim of the World” highway for its breathtaking views of the valley below. Be aware of heavy traffic on weekends and that the area is regularly patrolled by the CHP and local police, so watch your speed. Riding time is approximately an hour and a half.

Lake Arrowhead is a lovely mountain town with the charm of an Alpine village. Although Lake Arrowhead itself is privately owned, Lake Gregory draws fishermen, nature lovers and water skiers in the summer months while the two villages, Lake Arrowhead and Blue Jay, offer shopping and dining in abundance. From May until September, the Summer Concert Series entertains locals and visitors alike with quality tribute bands that cover nearly every important artist from the Beatles, the Doors, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to Depeche Mode and Garth Brooks. Concerts are free and take place on the main stage in Lake Arrowhead Village. In October, the town puts on one of the best Octoberfests in Southern California. Be sure and visit Wildhaven Ranch sanctuary, home to indigenous critters that are unable to live in the wild anymore.

My local friend recommends several restaurants to eat at including Hortencia’s Mexican Restaurant, Lou Eddie’s Pizza and the grill at the Antlers Inn. If you plan on staying overnight, accommodations can be booked through Lake Arrowhead Retreats (Arrowhead Retreats).

If you intend to head to Big Bear also, you’ll need to get back onto CA-18 and then CA-38, a nice scenic highway that at one point achieves the distinction of being one of the highest roads in Southern California. Big Bear is about another hour and a half ride from Lake Arrowhead.

Big Bear Lake offers all manner of water sports from kayaking to paddle boarding and, of course, fishing. In addition, the town offers visitors hiking, parasailing, helicopter rides, horseback riding, golf and even bowling. Big Bear is home to one of the country’s only alpine solar observatories and there is a zoo, too!

Fun and delicious dining can be had all over the village from Noble Roman’s Pizza, Big Bear Mountain Brewery, The Cowboy Steakhouse & Saloon and The Cave where live music sets the pace every weekend.

Both Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear offer hiking and camping, but you’ll need to obtain a California Adventure Pass which can be purchased at the Lake Arrowhead Ranger Station or Visitors Center as well as some local businesses.

If you are looking for the perfect escape from the city, Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are the perfect destinations for a day or weekend trip. And with the beautiful scenery and fresh mountain air, getting there on a motorcycle is a big part of the pleasure. Be sure and call OC Motorcycle to reserve a bike or two and hit the highway soon!

 

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, day trips, motorcycle rides, motorcycles, scenic rides, southern california

Day Trip: Joshua Tree National Park

 

Joshua Tree National Park is a place that holds a lot of mystery and other-worldly beauty. It is home to the iconic Joshua tree, surreal boulder formations and panoramic views. Back in the late Sixties, it was also the location of a now-infamous desert photo shoot and undoubtedly enlightening trip made by friends Keith Richards and Gram Parsons. Later, of course, Parsons would be found dead in the Joshua Tree Inn, his body becoming the subject of a truly twisted rock ‘n’ roll tale.

In addition to its musical history, Joshua Tree is host to some 700 species of plant life and around 240 bird species, including the occasional pelican who makes its way over from the nearby Salton Sea. Joshua Tree is rich in Native American and California history as well and its haunting beauty is a must-see for all who visit or call Southern California home.

From Orange County, head north on the 55, then east on the 91 toward Riverside for about 30 miles before reaching the 60. Head east for another 18 miles or so. You will then need to get onto I-210E for about 22 miles before reaching the 62, which will take you into the park after 43 miles or so.

If you’ve never seen them before, you may be taken aback by the wind farms on the 62. These giant white turbines make you feel as if you’re on some alien planet and they were not placed out there haphazardly. This portion of the road can get very windy, so be prepared if you’re on a lighter bike.

A great stop before reaching the National Park is at Hutchins Harley-Davidson in Yucca Valley. With an attached 1950’s style diner and a vintage motorcycle museum, it’s a perfect place to grab some breakfast or lunch.

A second detour from the 62 is to head down Old Woman Road and check out Giant Rock, the largest free-standing boulder in the world. Nearby is the truly spacey Integratron, built in 1959 by UFO enthusiast George Van Tassel. The all-wooden 35-foot high dome is said to be an acoustically perfect structure where today you can experience a neuroacoustic sound bath or perhaps attend a UFO symposium.

Once inside the park, you will likely be overcome with visual stimuli from all corners of your vision. The roads inside the park are meant for meandering and enjoying the sights, so take your time and stop often. The liquid-like rock formations and hundreds of Joshua tree sentinels are spectacular to say the least. Be sure and drive up to Key View for an incredible view from a 5,185 foot elevation. You can see Mt. San Jacinto, Cochella Valley and on a clear day, the Salton Sea from this vantage point.

When you’re finally ready to leave, simply head back to Orange County the way you came or map out a back route through Box Canyon and Mecca, down through Borrego Springs and then make your way back to CA-5 N toward Orange County.

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, day trips, Joshua Tree, motorcycle rides

Naming Fictional Characters

I take naming my characters pretty seriously.  For my novel, “Red, White & Blues”, I wanted to have everyday names that could be easily related to by most everyone.  The names of my main characters, such as John Clark, Pete Clark, Sandy Porter, Sarah Somerton, Louise Sinclair, Edie McCabe-even Mike Blackhorse-were chosen specifically for their simplicity.  With characters that I wanted a little more impact, such as Morgan Stewart, the President of the fictional motorcycle club, “The Souls of Liberty”, I chose a stronger name, but still left it easy to remember.  For my “resident artist”, I chose Haven Hartford, a somewhat unusual name, but again, pretty easy to remember.  I wrote this book with the express idea that no matter what the situations are, it could be easy for everyone to relate to.  I also wrote my book using simple language, but that is a subject for another blog!  The main sources that I use for naming my characters (usually both first & last names) are two baby name books that I have had for years:  “Name Your Baby” by Lareina Rule and “The New Age Baby Name Book” by Sue Browder.  The latter is obviously for the more unusual or ethnic-inspired names.  When developing a new character, I nearly always know what they look like before I have their name, so I do take that image into consideration when I start searching for their name.  It’s fun to browse the books, looking for that perfect name to pop out at me!

Filed under: Uncategorized Tagged: authors, books, fiction, l.v. sage, novel, red white & blues, writing

Orange County is Preferable to Los Angeles

These days, staying behind what is sometimes affectionately referred to as the “Orange Curtain” isn’t such a bad thing. With Los Angeles ranking in as America’s second largest city (behind New York), it’s no wonder that traveling beyond the Orange County line is looking less and less desirable every year.

The traffic is Los Angeles County is notorious for gridlock, accidents, ill-timed roadwork and more. To get anywhere, commuters need to plan their “escape” well, taking in time of day (which seems to matter less and less), roadwork and conditions, weather and ultimate destination. Leaving early doesn’t help, nor does heading out on an “off day”. Most people just get into their cars or hop on their motorcycles and hope for the best while relying on radio reports, GPS, tips and traffic apps like WAZE.

We here in Orange County have it comparatively better. Of course there is still plenty of traffic, but it’s not nearly as mind-numbing as it is in our dear sister county to the north. Locals know that weekday mornings on the 405 are slow, but that’s because people are going to work. Likewise, the 55S will be backed up during the summer with beach-goers.

Usually, there is a specific reason for the traffic here in OC and because of that, it is easier to deal with. Well, somewhat. No one likes to sit in traffic, but it just seems less hopeless and downright depressing here.

If you’re on a motorcycle, splitting lanes is an option here in California. Doing so in congested Los Angeles County is much more dangerous, especially with desperate drivers recklessly changing lanes or illegally crossing over in to the carpool lane without warning.

Besides, there’s plenty to see and do here in our smaller, less congested county. Renting a motorcycle from OC Motorcycle and heading out onto the highways and roads here in Orange County is easier and more pleasurable than dealing with the ins and outs of Los Angeles and her environs.

With fall approaching, it’s a great time to reserve a bike from OC Motorcycle and explore our laid back and beautiful county!

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, motorcycle riding, motorcycle safety, motorcycles, orange county, traffic

In Honor of John Lennon’s Death

I remember the day that John Lennon was murdered very clearly.  I also remember the aftermath that seemed to stick around for years.  because this was such a pivotal event in my life and would definitely be even more so to my characters from “Red, White & Blues”, I address the situation in the sequel.  Here is the excerpt that covers the tragic event:

 

December 8th. Wes is trying not to nod off as he watches the final few minutes of Monday Night Football. The game is tied at thirteen; the Patriots have the ball when Howard Cosell makes the announcement.

“An unspeakable tragedy confirmed to us by ABC News in New York City: John Lennon, outside of his apartment building on the West Side of New York City, the most famous perhaps, of all of The Beatles, shot twice in the back, rushed to Roosevelt Hospital, dead on arrival. Hard to go back to the game after that news flash, which, in duty bound, we have to take.”

Wes sits up, disbelieving.

“What?” He begins to channel surf, looking for more news and finally lands on an interrupted broadcast of The Best of Carson.

“Oh God,” he mutters, his head shaking.

He picks up the phone and dials the number that Jimmy had given him.

“What?” What is it?” Sandy says, startled out of her sleep. She reaches over and turns on the bedside lamp.

“Sandy, it’s Wes Meyers. Have you heard?”

“Heard what?”

“I’m coming down there,” he says, and hangs up the phone.

When Sandy answers the door, Wes’ eyes are glassy with tears. As he tries to speak, his lips tremble.

“What?” Sandy asks alarmed.

Wes sighs, covers his face. “John Lennon’s dead,” is all he manages before breaking down.

Sandy stares uncomprehendingly.  “What? What do you mean?”

“Oh, God! He was shot! He’s dead!”

Still not understanding, Sandy puts a hand on Wes’ shoulder. He turns toward her and sobs into her chest. As he cries, she realizes that it must be true.

“No!” she says, crying herself now. “No! No!”

They hold each other, cry and talk until dawn, when exhausted, they finally fall asleep.

In the morning, the news reports come in with all of the devastating details of the murder. It seems as if the whole world has stopped spinning.

Morning Glory Café closes early. It seems that no one can stop crying long enough to take orders.

At Full Throttle, the reaction is similar. John sits in the office with Salem as the radio plays endless Beatles music behind them.

“It’s terrible,” Salem says. “He was such a peaceful man.”

“Yeah. So was Pete. I just don’t understand this world sometimes.”

The following week, Lennon’s grief-stricken widow, Yoko Ono, calls for ten minutes of silence to remember her husband. Nearly every window seems to have a candle burning behind it.

Wes has joined Sandy for the vigil and afterward, he rises from the couch and goes over to the turntable. He pulls out Double Fantasy, the last album that John had released with Yoko. Sandy squints from her spot on the couch, trying to identify the cover. Wes holds it up.

“No,” Sandy says. “Not that. I can’t take it.”

Wes nods. The personal and deeply emotional songs about their son, Sean, and their own marriage are just too sad to hear just yet. In fact, it would be years before Sandy could listen to it again.

Filed under: Media, Uncategorized Tagged: fiction, John Lennon's death, red white & blues, writing

Kindle Countdown is on for “Red, White & Blues”!

Download right now for only .99!!

Red, White & Blues on Amazon

Filed under: Media, Uncategorized Tagged: 1960's, 1970's, bikers, california, fiction, hippies, red white & blues, San Francisco

Motorcycle Phone Mounts

Mounting your phone on your motorcycle can be advantageous for several different reasons. The phone can double as either a music source (when coupled with speakers or a Bluetooth), as a camera for taking pictures on the ride or as navigational tool when used with GPS.

Phone mounts come in several different styles and price ranges and you’ll need to consider your own needs when choosing the one that will work best for you. Besides the above, you’ll also need to take into consideration your phone’s specifics such as size and if it has a case or not. You may also want to consider a waterproof mount or cover to protect your phone from the elements.

While you will probably charge your phone fully before going out on a ride, you may also want to consider alternative ways to be able to charge your phone on the road. There are two different methods to do this and both are simple. The first is to simply connect the phone directly to the bike’s battery via a mini or micro USB harness. The second way is more permanent and involves mounting a USB power port on your bike’s dash, handlebars, tank, etc. and then wiring it to a switched circuit like a headlight. Once properly mounted, you’ll have a permanent and handy charging outlet that can also be used for GPS devices or cameras as well as your phone.

The staff at OC Motorcycle can help you with advice on phone mounts and covers that will work best for your individual needs, so stop in or give them a call today.

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Media, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, motorcycle gear, motorcycles

Use a GoPro to Capture Your Motorcycle Rides

With technology moving at the speed of light, it is easier than ever to share your motorcycle rides with your friends and family or even online with everyone.

GoPro, the mountable camera that is specifically designed for capturing action, was invented by surfer Nick Woodman in 2002. Since then, it’s evolved into the most versatile and popular recorders of our time.

There are several GoPro models ranging in price from $130.00 up to $500.00. In addition, there are many different methods for mounting the camera to various body parts, helmets, bike parts. By comparison, the mounts are extremely affordable, starting at $15.00 and going up to around $60.00.

While mounting the GoPro to your helmet is the easiest way to get footage, it’s the most common method out there. There are three different positions that the camera can be mounted-the top, side or chin. All of these will provide a nice POV, but can be a little disorienting to the viewer with your head movements. Also, the added profile can cause wind drag.

GoPros can also be mounted to the chest with a special harness. This method is good for off-road riding and for highlighting the handlebars and controls.

It can actually be much better to mount the GoPro to various parts of your bike. Several places can accommodate the camera including the handlebars, crash bars, passenger pegs or even the tail end of the bike. Each position provides a different POV, most are secure and unencumbered, but most can be affected by bike vibrations. Both GoPro and YouTube offer editing software/options to significantly reduce this for playback.

There are many different mounting gear options, or you can even get creative. Some riders have mounted the GoPro on the swing arm, the saddlebags, or even built custom mounts.

The best way to get started is to simply begin experimenting. Remember that camera settings will also have an effect of the quality of your video, so consult your manual or the Internet for user tips.

OC Motorcycles can help you with any questions you may have. They carry and sell both the GoPro cameras and accessories, so stop by today and start making your memories last.

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Media, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, motorcycle gear, motorcycles

Day Ride: The Rock Store

By far the most famous biker destination in Southern California, the Rock Store has been welcoming the biker community since 1961 when owners Ed and Vern (Veronica) Savko purchased the old building and first turned it into a grocery store.

The Rock Store is world-famous, appearing in movies, commercials, videos and photo shoots as well as hosting many special events, bike shows, etc. Popular with the rich and famous as well as us “Average Joes”, it’s not unlikely to catch Jay Leno, Arnold Schwarzenegger or Harrison Ford in the parking lot.

The Rock Store is located on famous Mulholland Hwy, just off Pacific Coast Hwy in the town of Cornell. After picking up your rental bike at EagleRider Newport Beach, head north on the 405 before merging onto I-10 W toward Santa Monica. This will become CA-1 and you’ll take this beautiful road toward Malibu Canyon Road. When you reach Mulholland Hwy turn left and the Rock Store will be on the left-hand side about 6 miles down (30354 Mulholland Hwy).

The Rock Store is only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, so you’ll have to brave the traffic and crowds to get there. They serve breakfast as early as 7:00AM and close at 6:00PM. Because of the close proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains and all of the amazing roads and rides nearby, you’ll see all types of bikes in the lot, ranging from sport bikes to cruisers and choppers.

I suggest heading out on this ride very early so that you can enjoy some of the spectacular roads in the area. Unfortunately, many are known to local law enforcement as well and if you’re not careful, you may get stopped so watch yourself.

 

Tuna Canyon Road is one of the more well-known routes and you can pick it up from Mulholland Hwy by heading north for about ten miles, turning right on Stunt Rd, which becomes Saddle Peak Rd, and then right onto Tuna Canyon Rd. This is a ONE WAY road, heading north to south, mostly downhill toward the coast with no guardrails. This road can be very dangerous; it is full of hairpin turns, so it is wise to watch your speed, make sure your brakes are in optimal condition and take your time.

This road will end up at CA-1, so getting back to the freeway and EagleRider Newport Beach is easy from here. However, if you have time, there are many interesting, scenic and very fun roads nearby, including Old Topanga Canyon, which is practically next door to Tuna Canyon.

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Media, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, motorcycle rides, motorcycles

Old Towne Orange and Irvine Park

Orange County is known for our miles of beautiful coastline and beaches, but there’s also a lot to see inland as well.

Old Towne Orange is a great place to explore and it is only ten miles from EagleRider Newport Beach via CA-55N to Chapman Ave.

In the “Orange Circle” and up and down Glassell Ave., you will find plenty of antique malls, unique shops and lots of great restaurants and the surrounding streets are overflowing with beautiful historical homes.

Getting lost in nostalgia is easy in Old Towne Orange. It’s fun to get lost in the huge antique and consignment malls that feature all sorts of treasures from old Life magazines to record albums, comic books, jewelry, dishware, furniture, action figures and anything else you can dream up.

If you’re into 1950’s and 60’s mid-century furniture don’t miss a visit to Woody’s. Bret and Bettie Woody have an impressive collection of mid-century Danish and Heyfield Wakeman furniture for sale and can tell you anything you need to know about it.

Next door is the famous Watson’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain where you can literally step back in time and enjoy an old-fashioned hamburger lunch complete with malt or float while listening to the 1950’s jukebox.

There are lots of specialty shops in Orange that are great fun to browse. Mr. C’s Rare Records is a favorite. The selection is great here, but the prices are a bit steep. Nearby is Big Red Comics where you can find toys, games and action figures in addition to the comic books. I also recommend a stop at the Army Navy Store where you’ll find lots of great camping equipment as well as pins, patches, bumper stickers, clothing, foot ware and a selection of knives and guns.

If you want to try some of the best Cuban food in town, head over to Felix’s Continental Café. Their portions are huge and you can sit outside or in. Other great places to eat are Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen, Citrus City Grille and Bruxie’s. If you’re a vegetarian, there’s a couple of amazing places to eat. Try Rutabegorz with its laid-back, hippie vibe or Mead’s Green Door, which features a local artists’ gallery. Next door to Mead’s is a great sausage and beer joint called Linx.

If you take E. Chapman Ave all the way to Jamboree Rd, you’ll end up running into Irvine Regional Park in Santiago Canyon. This is a beautiful and sprawling park, complete with a small zoo, train rides, paddle boat rentals, horseback riding, picnic grounds and hiking trails. Well worth the extra few minute drive from Old Towne Orange.

To get back to EagleRider Newport Beach, take Jamboree to CA-405N to CA-55S, then exit at Baker St.

Filed under: Blog Posts From Other Sites, Media, Uncategorized Tagged: bikers, california, motorcycle rides, motorcycles