September 2018 Top Talk
President Chip Kyle
Summer is the most active time for our club. For the last several months, we have posted more than 70 rides each month with 90+ in the month of July. These are impressive numbers, both from the quantity of opportunities to ride and the number of club members turning out to participate. Reports from ride leaders are indicating large turnouts, with some rides having more than 30 participants. Despite the fact that the weather has been unusually hot (and smoky!), it’s a testament to our enjoyment of riding and sharing time with our other club members.
At the beginning of the month we staged our annual picnic with great success. In contrast to the last 3 years, we returned to the potluck format with the club providing the main portion, drinks and sundries while the attendees brought salads and desserts. More than 100 people turned out to enjoy one of three different rides along with the plethora of cookies, pies, cobblers, cakes, and too many types of salads to count. It was all great and I attempted to sample as many as I could (they were small samples). Everyone I spoke to following the picnic told me how much they enjoyed the format – especially the diversity of food. While the decision will be left to future boards, I expect we will continue with this format going forward. A heartfelt thanks to Ashley Reynolds for organizing the event along with the expert assistance of Ann Morrow and Kathleen Hellem. All three did a great job and the event would not have happened without them.
As I’m writing this, the last one of the extended weekend rides in other parts of Oregon is taking place. Bud Rice is again leading a ride in Central Oregon – this one out of Cove Palisades State Park. Day 1 took the riders to Madras, Day 2 to Smith Rock, and Day 3 to Haystack Reservoir. Ride distances ranged from 30 to 50 miles, and recently posted pictures on FB show many smiles and fun times. If you haven’t participated in one of these rides, give it some thought. Alternatives to camping are always available.
In the meantime, Ride Safely!