Sunday, March 24, 2013

Behind-the-scenes update: Preparing for Alaska

There's a lot going on behind the scenes as I prepare for this summer's three-week bicycle tour of Alaska. 

I’m actually doing well gathering sponsors. CG Schmidt from Milwaukee just signed on. I have a big shout out of thanks to Husar's House of Fine Diamonds in West Bend as store owners Mike Husar and Mary Husar Martin donated the printing and covered the cost of the tour jersey.

Above is a mock-up of the jersey; it's a work in progress and we'll unveil the finished product in a few weeks.

I also completed my first USCCA self-defense training course and over the weekend received my concealed carry license.

The website has been updated with a simple donor tab at the top, and all corporate sponsors are recognized for supporting Alzheimer's and the tour.

My ticket to Anchorage has been secured and I’ll be departing Friday, June 28 from Milwaukee to Denver, Colorado and then onto Alaska.

A woman who reads my Saturday column in the West Bend Daily News hooked me up with her brother who was in town from Alaska. We met at the Idle Hour or Two and chatted for over an hour.

John stood 6 foot 4 and had a deep baritone voice; he gave me loads of advice on road conditions, attractions, safety, bears, and places to stay.   

NEW! MEMORIAL OPPORTUNITIES! 
Coming up, I'd like to bicycle each day in honor of someone affected by Alzheimer's. We'll post a spot at the top of the website for a name and photo. If you have someone you would like to sponsor for that day, a simple $150 donation and a .jpeg photo is all that's needed. See donation button on this page and specify "memorial."  Send your .jpeg to:  thebikewriter@gmail.com.  Thanks!

I'll be on the tour 19 days and hope to bicycle each day in memory of someone. Spread the word and thanks for the help!