Carlo showing off his handywork at the2008 LiveSTRONG Challenge rest stop (photo courtesy of Linda Jellison)It's about 91 degrees today and I'm kickin' it in my office - which is upstairs and butt-hot - wishing I was outside riding my bike. I've been doing a lot of wishin' lately, and with a travel and business schedule that seems to not quit, it's been some time since I've seen some of y'all (see photo left, in case you forgot what I look like :)). The good news is that things are starting to let up a bit and soon you'll see the familiar blue Orbea Orca rolling your way; a bit more slowly than usual, but happy as a clam. Thanks to my staff for keeping the fires lit while I've been away - this is truly a team effort to keep Velo moving.
Speaking of team effort, what an incredible showing for the LiveSTRONG Challenge in June! Linda "LL Cool J" Jellison did a phenomenal job with the rest stop organization and day-of-ride logistics. Matt "The Dealer" D'Elia handled the course marshal organization like a pro and Johnny "On The Spot" Ohnstad represented Velo proudly while serving as the LAF Portland Mentor. And then there were the rest of you who, without your participation at the rest stops and as course marshals, we would not have weekend jobs. My kudos and thanks to all of you! Check out the photos in the gallery...
I'd like to give a big welcome and thanks to Portland Velo Member Kimberly Shute, our Club Century organizer, who allowed me to corral her into taking on our biggest and most popular event of the year. She's taking the Club Century to a whole new level, and we hope you'll agree when you see what we have in store. Speaking of which, we need you to register now - or at least by July 20. Here's a hint: Maggie is catering the event. Any other questions?
A big thank you to Genny Rankin (left, in red), who served as our Events Director for the past two years! Under Genny's leadership, we made the Club Century, Fall/Winter/Spring Parties and First Friday Beer Bashes a reality. Genny's still around, but is stepping down from her director position. We'll be looking to backfill that role sometime in the next few months.
Here's one for you - what can we be doing better? We know how fast grooves can become ruts and we want to make sure we're serving our members well. Please take a moment to contact any one of the officers or send a note to info@portlandvelo.net. It's all about the ride and the ride is all about you.
Have fun and be safe!
Cheers-
(Carlo and) The Chain Gang
Portland Velo