What does that have to do with skating?
Well, nothing except for this amazing photograph of one of my favorite dance/style icons, Gene Kelly.
Happy Birthday Eiffel Tower! Perhaps I’ll skate with you one day.
My Skate Life (in GIFs)
1. First of all, it’s NOT a “hobby.”
2. What it feels like when you lace up a perfect fitting pair of skates.
3. When my song comes on…
4. When my song comes on and I don’t have my skates on yet…
5. That time I almost fell, but didn’t…
6. When someone bumps into me or cuts me off because they’re not paying attention…
7. When I see my friend pull off a SICK skate move…
8. When someone gets a new pair of skates…
9. When you nail that new skate move for the first time…
10. The morning after a late-night skate party…
Halftime Show at the Derby
Last weekend I was invited to perform at halftime for the B.ay A.rea D.erby Girls Season Opener!
I had to get used to the floor a bit, but even at last call for alcohol, it was a great crowd.
It was fun to show the derby crowd something a bit different. I have a lot of respect for the derby, but I also think it’s important for women to see that it’s not the only place for them in skating. Hopefully a few ladies were inspired to get their dance on too!
This is how it all starts…
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we can all relate to Karen’s hilarious journey to skate glory. Enjoy!!
I love this video SO hard. lol I need to meet you gurl!!
Music Video Skate Cameos
Roller Skating has always been cool and the proof is in music videos from some of the biggest artists.
Even Beyonce filmed her latest video, “Blow” at a skate rink in Houston.
Check out just some of these classic skate cameos. Don’t blink or your might miss them! I included the time code with the skate scene.
Janet Jackson – Alright (5:40)
George Benson – Give me the Night (Various scenes in the 1st minute or so)
JJ Fad – Supersonic (2:48)
Michael Jackson – Bad (3:54)
Ciara feat. Missy Elliott – 1, 2 Step (2:45)
Black History Month
In honor of Black History month, I wanted to share an important moment in skating history.
“Black people were first allowed to roller skate indoors at the Savoy Ballroom in Chicago’s Bronzeville community on December 8, 1938 thanks to Jimmie Davis, the manager of The Savoy at that time.” From http://www.marciewrites.com
Photo: Lee Russell
In 2012, skate legend Richard Humphrey beautifully recreated the vibe of 1940s Chicago for his 60th birthday party. It was an honor to be a part of this celebration.
Photo: Randy Wong
Thank you to these brave pioneers who paved the way for us to unite in our love of skate!
Skate Bangerz
Here’s 5 hard-hitting bangerz to bring out your inner skate beast.
- Mary J. Blige – Love @ 1st Sight
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtJVwHjydi0 - DMX ft.Method Man, Nas, & Ja Rule – Grand Finale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNLfwrFJhSI - Busta Rhymes ft T-Pain – Hustler’s Anthem
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U90rSXHlkhw - Dwele – Grown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZqKfjYm2cQ - E-40 – Money on my mind
http://youtu.be/DVJCF5tj3Qw
What skate songs get you pumped?? Leave a comment! I’m always looking to update my playlists.
An Appeal to Skate Inventors – Toe Protection
When I dance, I do alot of THIS:
It takes a toll on the toes of my skates. I don’t use a toe stop, so typical toe protection options won’t work for me.
Currently, I use TUFF TOE, a molded piece of plastic designed for baseball cleats.
It’s ok, but I have to glue the piece permanently to my boot. So it’s not pretty and I don’t get full protection, since it’s made to fit the inside portion of the foot.
Does anyone make toe protection for skates without toe stops?
What solutions have you found?
Please share!
If you’re a clever inventor type with ties to the skate industry, please create something, then TAKE MY MONEY!! 😉
Spreading the “Rolligion” to Santa Barbara
The Godfather of Skating (San Francisco) is making news in Santa Barbara, California with a week-long event called “Holiday Shop N Roll.” #shopnroll
Organizers have turned the Earl Warren Show Grounds into a funky roller disco floor, surrounded by local artisans and delicious local, organic food offerings.
Click to see the full segment from the evening news:
On opening day Santa Barbara Mayor, Helene Schneider, kicked things off with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Joined here by The Godfather, the event organizers Katie and Valerie, and the Brawlin’ Betties Derby Team.
Photo: Megan E. McConnell
Even “White Chocolate” was there. 😉
Photo: Sean Lieberman
I had a blast dancing around and teaching the kids. I hope they all had a wonderful experience, and that Santa gets them some roller skates for Christmas this year.
Here’s the details:
When: December 14-22, 2013
Mon – Thurs: 11am – 9pm
Fri – Sun: 11am – 10pm
(Artisan Mart open Saturdays & Sundays)
Where: Earl Warren Show Grounds, 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, California 93105
Admission:
- $5 admission Saturdays and Sundays for adults 16+ only [waived with skate rental]
- Skate rentals $10/kids, $12/adults 16+, includes pads/helmets – all sizes available
- FREE admission Monday through Friday
- FREE parking available
RINK IS OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-9PM/10PM – NO SESSIONS, OPEN SKATE ALL THE TIME
If you’re in the area, check it out!
Epic Blow out!!
So THIS happened. As I was dropping into a pseudo-sit spin, my left foot blasted out of the side of my boot. These puppies were only about 2 1/2 years old. Is that supposed to happen Riedell?
Not excited to have to break in new skates, but we keep on rollin!!
White Chocolate - Roller Skating 