Freewheel’n – January 2004
Welcome to 2004! Not sure how to start this year. Perhaps the best way is to reflect on the past year. We covered my topics in these articles…how many of you remember ‘Little Ease’? Yes, that is right; Franklin Township was once called that many years ago. We also celebrated and were sadden by Lance Armstrong. Early in the year we enjoyed the news that Lance was named Sportsman of the Year by Sports Illustrated. And how can we forget the Tour de France that Lance won for the fifth consecutive year. We were also saddened by the announcement of his impending divorce. There was anger at various court decisions that sanctioned the thinking that we cyclist are second class citizens. Then we were informed about Cannondale’s financial problems as it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The April issue brought the sounds of war…yes, the real world caused us to pause. We drifted in summer as RePete started the riding season with the Peach Blossom and that stalwart group of Sam, Ray, Barb, and Ora Sue. Then the announcement of the passing of two dear club members and friends…Art Schlick and Bill O’Brien. In all the releases of Freewheel’n this had to be the most difficult to prepare. Then there was that surgery. This should have been routine but what started in December 2002 continues to live on as 2004 begins!!! Surgery is again scheduled…this time for January 5. This experience has left me with an extremely poor opinion of our medical profession. Appears incompetence is rampant and you go to the hospital at your own risk…
Will start by addressing the holiday party…specifically, the fact that we as a club do not have any celebration in December. The final ride for the club is in late September. The Convention is held in mid-October. As such, there is nothing after these events until the Get Ready in June. That is about eight to nine months. We compress all our events into simply four months of the year. Not sure why this is…it is sad that there is nothing that allows us to meet to shorten this stretch of time. A party in December would help…lacking that, some other event either in February or March could key the coming season’s activities. The problem is the weather. In any of these months an outdoor event would be doubtful. Renting a hall would be expensive. However, the benefits to such an event could be substantial. It could key to developing a solid base of volunteers for the upcoming events and foster ideas and suggestions. I may be a lone voice…let me hear from you and tell me if you agree or disagree.
Finally…mentioned volunteers and indeed these are needed if any events are to be held. Make this year the year you commit to helping with no less than one event. There are so many ways to help. Maybe start by providing an interesting piece in the Spoke’n Word. Help at one of the ride events and come to a meeting. Many are reluctant as, “I will not know anyone.” Well…you will never know the club unless you start.
RePete
www.goecities.com/repete_bike
So you want some exciting tours? Well, RePete has a bunch! Simply find Quest Tours on my Home Page...go there to find the best in rides in the area as well as to check on the weather!!!
Additionally, don’t forget to visit the South Jersey
Wheelmen or the Outdoor Club of
South Jersey or the S.O.R.E. Club web sites.
