Calling All Scouts

Some of our Scouts have found new homes since last year, but other new Scouts found their way to us on this year’s annual Calling All Scouts Ride. The day started chillier and much more overcast (even slightly “damp”) than expected. With several of our members on the Iron Butt ride, it seemed to be the perfect opportunity for a Scout ride that totalled a mere 106 miles (116 if you count the wrong turn; we were old schooling it with hand written directions). Think of it as a one-tank trip. A total of 16 bikes enjoyed a relaxing tour of the west side of Cleveland’s Emerald Necklace. Four Scouts led the way, including one that came all the way from Pittsburgh to join us. This ride’s getting a reputation!

The plan was to ride mostly Valley Parkway through the Metroparks, pick up sandwiches along the way at Cafe Ah-Roma and picnic in the park. Mother Nature had other plans however (did I mention the clouds and “dampness”) so we opted to eat inside at Cafe Ah-Roma. Of course the sun finally made an appearance after lunch, about the time we made it up to Rocky River Marina, where we spotted the Bair’s truck in the parking lot! Other highlights included Mama Duck and her 10-12 little ducklings scampering across the road in front of us (they all made it safely) and the groundhog that Mike N. flipped at Dave W., or more accurately at his Roadmaster (the groundhog did not make it safely). We also made a quick stop at Berea Falls, where everyone took a minute to pet the puppy! Who could walk by this guy?!

By the time we made it back down into and through the Brecksville Reservation and Cuyahoga Valley National Park it was high time for ice cream at the best ice cream shop in the Valley, Country Maid…and gas…it was the Scout ride after all.

But perhaps it was our sweep that enjoyed the ride the most, as he was reunited for the day with a newer version of his beloved willow green and cream Vintage.

Next up…Journey to the Mountain on 6/18!