November 18th 2008

This last weekend my wife had a conference in Lincoln, Nebraska. I got to tag along and boy, did I have fun. On the way home we went through Border Raid territory and I got to show her the sights. She loved the Quilt Shop in Syracuse, was wowed by the Lied Lodge and beauty of the orchard view from the balcony in Nebraska City. We both learned a lot from the Lewis and Clark stop.It astounds me that no matter how many times I go through there, I see something new and different each and every time.

No matter if this will be your first Raid or your fifth, you are in for some great times on the bike.... We go through some of the best parts of 4 different states. Yes, we have a few hills on the route, many riders have noticed that over the years. They do not seem to be overly concerned by them. Last year we had a group of recumbants do the Long Rider Century. I was at the last sag when they rolled in.... looking a little fatigued, but still in very good spirits. It was Skips first Century, oh boy he picked a good one. I watched as they mounted up for the last time to roll on in to Weston and the Banquet. I was very proud and jealous of them.

I don't know what it is, but this ride attracts some of the best folks from all over the country, most come with BS degrees it seems. (and I do not mean a Bachelor of Science.....) I got my BS degree years ago and update it yearly on the Raid. I have had more fun these last few years on this ride than any human should.... whether it is kidding around with the staff or the riders, it does not matter. It is a short week for us cause we are having fun. It really goes by too fast ........

Please have a safe Holiday and we will see you next June or sooner I hope.
Jim

November 1st 2008

Greetings Border Raiders,
Only 3 more days to the election and just 6 months to get ready for the RAID......
I will be glad when it is time for the Border Raid Ride in June and really glad when this election is over.
I voted early and it seems like that was a good decision. I hope everyone exercises their "privilege" to vote. So far the large crowds and early turnout are amazing to me...... This is a good thing for the country and something I always hoped to see some day.

We are working behind the scenes to get ready for the RAID 09 edition. The nice days in Kansas are becoming more and more rare and the days are getting shorter, so are my bike rides....

If you are still on the bike this winter, stay warm and safe. As I gradually get a little longer in the tooth as they say my enthusiasm to go out and freeze my buttocks off seems to be wearing down...... Years ago I bought a new pair of wool tights to ride in the winter so naturally I did. Being all of 20 years old decided to ride from Hutchinson to Harper, Kansas. It was only 80 miles, but it was January. I was going to ride straight south with a north wind as a tailwind...... only 5 miles was with a crosswind and ohh baby that was cold.... I think I averaged around 18 miles per hour, it was hovering around 32 degrees so it was not too bad, really. My buddy Chris Webster picked me up just outside Harper where he lived..... it was starting to rain and he was a little worried about me. It was a very cool memorable ride.

Remember to keep the rubber side down and see you again soon.
Jim Turner