P.O. Box 7424 ● North Port, FL 34290

DAY LIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS SUNDAY, MARCH 14

Taylor's Tales
A Message from the Heart
 
    Words cannot express my sincere gratitude to the many CCBC Members who signed the big “Yellow” card, sent e-mails and cards, personally called, brought meals and books, and no doubt kept me in their prayers.  I have had plenty of time to think and can't help but wonder how a person who gets regular checkups, has a great diet, and rides a bike 8,000 miles a year could have two blocked arteries.  I knew about the aortic valve issue; the result of rheumatic fever when I was in the Army in 1956.  My family physician had told me many times that someday I would have to face the fact that a new valve was imminent.  So, the question then arises—how could I ride hard, compete in Senior Games Competitions and not have some indication before this that my heart was slowing down?  Doctors have indicated that collateral (small) sub-arteries form around the blocked areas and compensate for the damage.  In my case, the collateral must have been terrific. 

    I am passing this along to all of our members because I am not unique. When I am in the company of our membership, I am in awe that most of we Senior's are very athletic, many have had medical issues as serious as mine but they all continue to ride and stay fit.  Because we work at staying fit and healthy, I think we also do not “sit still” for minor aches and pains and perhaps in some cases overlook the obvious.  In my case, I'm certainly guilty of that process.  It is probably in our nature not to let aches and pains get in the way of a good ride.  After all, the great feeling that comes after a good ride is most often worth any minor discomfort. 

    As I often mingle with our members, I cannot help but admire the positive attitude and friendship that permeates our activities.  So many citizens in our age category choose to take it too easy while we ride 25 miles as part of our lifestyle.  I admire you all.

    As I continue my long recovery process, please know that I will be back on the bike.  Until then,“ride on”.

 Walter Taylor, President, CCBC

Pete Cornell, recovering from a recent biking mishap, appears happy to shuffle "tandem" style with Walter. Photo provided by CCBC member Sue Pavlat.
 

Sun., Mar. 21 - 8:00 sharp - Two Century Rides - Meet at Shamrock Park (from the South Venice intersection of US 41 and Shamrock Drive, go 2 miles west on Shamrock Drive. The Park will be on the right). The route will first go south to Rotonda, then travel north to Casey Key area. CCBC will furnish a picnic lunch at Nokomis Beach. There will be several rest stops where riders can either purchase snacks and drinks, or enjoy those provided by the club. Riders may plan to use support vehicle to transport personal riding items. Jack Wallick (413)219-2085 will lead at a steady 15-18 mph or Connie Garrison (937)477-5993 will lead at 14-15 mph. Call leaders for information. Please RSVP for leader and rider preparation and planning.
 

Do you have I.C.E. ? Always carry your cell phone on a ride. Make sure you have entered one or more phone numbers under "In Case of Emergency"

Want to try a tandem bike? The Club has one for members to use. Call Gary Bryant, (941) 223-5226, to make arrangements.  It's fun!

Welcome New Members 

Richard & Meredith Tolsdorf
Amanda Ryck & James Bauman
John & Jean Galvin
Gene Darst
Laurie Powell
Barbara Begale
Brian Rumisek
Stephan Morse
Howard Sandler
Peter McDowell
Nancy Stimson
 

CCBC Sunshine
If you are aware of any member who should be remembered with a CCBC card or personal contact, please e-mail Wanda Short at wjs_56@hotmail.com

To report potholes, debris, etc.
State roads:
     (941) 255-7426
Charlotte County:
     (941) 575-3600
Sarasota County:
     (941) 861-5000
City of Venice:
     (941) 486-2422