Bonnie Carroll's Life Bites

My first experience with the Segway was at a special event in Beverly Hills, where Police Chief Dave Snowden was testing one out for possible BHPD use. It looked dangerous for anyone who might have balance issues. The Chief was doing fine, but because he was in stellar physical condition why would he have a problem?

Well, on a recent visit to the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay Resort & Spa, I was given expert instruction on the 'how to' of Segway travel by Recreation Manager Benjamin Forchini, a master Segway great teacher with a great sense of humor. He had patience and was able to find a way for me to connect with the operating basics to make it possible for me to end up flying down the golf paths that run along the Pacific in front of the hotel while laughing out loud.

The Segway is a balancing act, and for me using the techniques I once used as an ice skating afficionado helped so much. Lean forward and you go forward -- balance yourself on center and you slow down and will stop. Lean back on your heels and you will go backwards. The turning bar is sensitive and required little exertion. It took a little practice at the beginning, but before long I was having so much fun flying around on the fun new transporation invention. Maximum speed for the Segway is twelve miles per hour.

I do think it takes a good coach to help you get the knack of this and a little practice helps a lot. Helmets are required for protection and a good idea, and taking it slow and easy to begin wtih is advisiable. I reconmend wear comfortable shoes that support your feet well, and loose fitting clothing. For young women or for women of a certain age (over fifty) enjoying this kind of adventure is still on the radar screen, and it is so much fun. I highly recommend it.

If you are planning a visit to the Ritz-Carlton Resort & Spa at Half Moon Bay call ahead and reserve a time to learn this new skill, and ask for Ben Forchini . He was great and will turn you into a Segway pro in no time. A Segway sells for $5,000 and the hourly fee for instruction is $65 or $75 an hour; a bargain to experience a new and wonderful form of transporation.For information visit: www.ritzcarlton.com.

Well, I had to see for myself what my old boss and

friend Peter Mullin had done with Otis Chandler's museum in Oxnard, and I will say I am not surprised by the 'spare no expense' design or the beautiful collection of cars on exhibition that this brilliant entrepreneur has brought together for public enjoyment. Not only are the cars rare, and beyond beautiful, but every detail in the educational and story telling aspect has been addressed so thoughtfully and tastefully.

A theatre provides film features on specific cars on exhibiton, along with the

personal history of the owners. The Art Deco collection of historic French furniture is a main attraction as well. Antique autos and sport cars fill the second level. The upper level houses a private club with a bar that is used for special events, and photos and memorabilia, including a minature of one of Mullin's race cars, are on display. The view of the museum from this vantage point is spectacular, and I was told the space was being rented for events by local charitable and automobile organizations.

Sadly, Peter Mullin was not there during my visit. I did, however, meet with his younger brothers Patrick and Steve Mullin, who welcomed me to the club area, and gave me the grand tour during my visit. Having worked with this amazing American family in the past, I was more than happy to see such a successful end to this long awaited museum, which is obviously very dear to Peter Mullin's heart. It was also nice to see that Bruce Meyer, a renowned car collector and former friend from Beverly Hills also had his hand in the creation of this automotive museum jewel.

My warm congratulations to Peter, Patrick, Steve, Ruby Talbot (described as the driving force behind the completion of the museum) and everyone involved. It is Bellissmo beyond belief!

Siamo lieti di comunicarvi che PIRAMEDIA con il
progetto CICLOTURISMO.COM sarà presente nei giorni
11 e 12 Settembre 2010