February 2023 Top Talk

The first ride of the year – the President’s New Year’s ride – was a tremendous success. We had nice weather, NO rain, and even sunshine at the end. There were about 40-50 people who joined the ride. We went into Portland, down the waterfront, and then back to Oregon City. We even stopped for an impromptu cookie break from a mother/daughter team raising money for their school.  ✎

We had many bike club members but also some first-time riders! To encourage more riders, I would like each of you to think about the friend you have who has a bike but doesn’t ride with us. Let’s get them to come on a ride! Also, please get business cards from your ride leader and hand them out when you meet someone new on a bike ride.

This year we chose several charities to support financially. We donated a total of $12,000 to our biking community. The recipients included charities helping restore and rebuild bike trails along Banks-Vernonia and the Columbia River Highway; scholarships for bike camps; funds empowering individuals with low income or disabilities to have bikes; advocacy for bike riders to have access to safe cycling; programs that assist bikers to find lost or stolen bikes; and finally, other community groups that help support our club rides. I am proud to be part of such a vibrant and supportive biking community.

I hope to see all of you at the club’s Annual Awards Banquet on Thursday, February 2. Hopefully, you have already bought your tickets!

I look forward to mingling with my fellow club cyclists and learning who the award winners will be. I am especially curious about the “Old Fart” award. Should be a fun time!

If you happen to miss it this year, plan for it next year to celebrate our club’s accomplishments!

Mark Barnes, President