Just got back from Hawaii, glad to be home. I am sending this out to my Blue's Angels list, I see Paul used an older list, so some may not have got it.
We will follow the "Shelter in Place" rule, so no rides planned going forward.
Duane
-------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Phillip Parsons <parsonspj@live.com>
Date: Sat, Mar 21, 2020 at 4:56 PM
Subject: The Last Hurrah
To: Paul Breuklander <pbreuklander1@gmail.com>, Phillip Parsons
Nine bikes with thirteen riders gathered at the Chevron for what may
have been the last organized ride of the 2019-20 Season. Under the
cloud of the COVID-19 regulations, several riders wanted to enjoy one
final trip on some of our familiar mountain roads, having breakfast at
home before a 9:00 AM start. Phil had discovered that Governor
Ducey's Declaration closing restaurants and bars was for 6 counties
with coronavirus cases, not including Gila County, which is the
Roosevelt Lake area. The group chose unrestricted Ma's Kitchen as the
stop for meal or coffee, and arrangements were made. Vern took charge
of organizing and leading the ride with Jay as the tail dragger.
This was the perfect Arizona spring day we've all been wishing for.
Soon we were underway, passing the vacant Renaissance grounds and
onward in sparse traffic. Today we saw the ever present Mustard
blooms filled with bees; perhaps the hillsides covered with poppies
are yet to come. Turning left toward Roosevelt Lake from the 60,
there seemed few people around. At Ma's only two EMT's were eating
breakfast, and the sign said they would close at noon. The riders
observed social distancing as a group, but it's difficult during the
meal. They were glad to have us, the meal was generous and served
quickly as usual.
Vern turned right from the Kitchen to follow the lake, now above 85%
filled, to the usual stop for fuel at the Tonto Grocery, where we
first realized many people were getting gas and groceries while
keeping their distance. It was on the Beeline that we discovered
heavy traffic and literally thousands of people spreading out with
campers and ATV's at every turnout. The word is out - the desert is a
safe playground where space and safety allow more normal activity on a
spring day. It was amazing to see such activity with social
distancing, and all those people will have enjoyed respite from their
cares during these dangerous times.
Despite the warnings to Remain in Place, about half today's riders
expect to leave for their Northern homes within the next 3 days. We
wish them a safe journey and a good summer, hoping to see everyone
next fall.
There will be small group rides for those staying as spring
continues-stay in touch. Today's ride was 174 miles in 3.5 hours
lapsed time averaging 53 mph.
Phil Parsons
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