Ride to Casa Grande

Seventeen bikes with about 27 riders appeared on this unusually cold but sunny morning for today’s 8:00 AM ride to Casa Grande.  There was a new rider with us today:  Bobbie Breuklander made her first ride on their Spyder, and it went well.  On this first earlier start of the season, the weather continued to do its number on AZ with a starting temp of 46 degrees, low for this time of year.  Although the original plan had been for a trip to Mt. Lemmon, that was not to be.   Duane opened the action with another reminder to get tickets for the Spring Picnic NEXT SATURDAY, with continued need for more prizes that can be raffled at the event.  Remember, there is the raffle for prizes and also one for the Motorcycle emblem quilt given for that day.  Keep in mind that the St Patrick’s Day Parade in GV will be on Monday, March 18 for as many as would like to ride in the Parade (and hand out candy).

 

Today’s Road Captains were Vern with taildragger Paul Andre and Jay and Dottie with Paul and Bobbie at the back.  Vern and the first group went east and south through Florence, while Jay and Dottie led their group on the interior roads.  Signs of spring: Vern and his group noticed two large herds of young cattle on pasture along Highway 79 with more flowers along the road, but there are still stacks of cotton stored in the fields because of the huge crop and rain delays in getting it to the cotton gins.  There are always lots of people out and about on Saturdays, including going to  the Renaissance.  Today was no exception, and the Cracker Barrel was swamped.  The good part was that they soon had a long table ready for us in their back room, with the good “vittles” it is known for coming quickly.  Lots of earnest conversation while everyone finished, and the first group returned thru town and north on the #347, then east to hook up with the Ironwood Extension that was finished this year.  There was some confusion when Paul and Bobbi got separated, but everyone returned before the clouds thickened for rain next week.   

 

The riders returned in groups after 1:00, and the ride today was about 124 miles, depending on the route and group. Next Wednesday is expected to be rainy, so the Angels will meet at 8 AM at The Mirage Café (next to Ace Hardware) for breakfast and hopefully a ride. If the weather guessers change their mind by Wednesday, we will meet at the station!