Tragedy in Balltown – Breitbachs destroyed by fire

by on December 27, 2007
in Other news

Breitbachs restaurant and tavern in balltown iowaI’m really saddened to report that Breitbach’s, the legendary family-owned restaurant in Balltown, Iowa, was destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve. During the 2007 Estrogen Ride, we rode from Galena, IL over to Balltown to have dinner at Breitbach’s, then back to Galena.

Locals in Balltown have started an assistance fund for the Breitbach family. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

What’s really painful about this is that the history of the town is so wrapped up in the history of the restaurant – it has been in operation since 1852 and was Iowa’s oldest restaurant and tavern. Numerous irreplaceable antiques were destroyed also, which had decorated the restaurant.

I hate to see any community lose a historic landmark. My heart goes out to the Breitbach family and to all of Balltown. Here’s wishing you a speedy rebuild!

(Googled photo courtesy of www.tristatetourism.com.)

That’s OFFICER BIKER CHICK to you!

by on December 2, 2007
in Brands

piggy graphicHey cool development in the Des Moines HOG Chapter, I’m now the official New Member Ambassador! Yep, I’ve joined the officer’s ranks of our chapter, which is based at Big Barn HD. My job for 2008 will be to sign in new members at each meeting, then introduce them to the rest of the group. I think it sounds like fun, and I’m thrilled to be on board!