A Word from Our President

Mike Bradbury

 

For most of us, the end of the riding season is coming to a close.  I say most of us as there are always the hardiest of riders, with or without their heated clothes, seats, gloves and handlebar grips, with determination that I see riding during the colder months.  They are the 4 season riders.  I find it inspiring when I see these guys (and gals!) out when it’s 32 degrees.  Sometimes they look like the Michelin Man character but, perhaps regrettably, I am rarely inspired enough to join them on those days.   Sometimes comfort wins out in the overall equation.

Now this is the time we all squeeze in all the riding we can!  We may start thinking of storing our bikes or making the changes we want, dream about and can afford over the winter months.  But no… NOW is the time to keep riding!  Please, any road captains and senior road captains and those who want to become one please put together a ride.  For those inspired members who are not road captains yet, see a Senior Road Captain for mentoring and for help.  Fall colors are coming and we need to see them on our bikes on a ride!

It is important as Top Cats that we support our overall motorcycle community and clubs as we see fit and as best we can.  All legitimate clubs deserve our courteous respect.   Sometimes we  can collaborate with them as we have in the past with some events with the Jerseypine Cruisers.  Other times we will  offer our assistance as with the 2^nd Annual Epic Memorial Ride, held in May this year to honor Anita Zafke and raise awareness about distracted driving and the grave harms it can produce.  We enjoy the respect of our rider community and we are seen as a premier club.  But,  as a part of this civil, organized community we have a have a responsibility to support and maintain these connections.

Now is also the time to choose our officers and directors for next year.  Your Election Committee, consisting of Past Presidents and lead by our most recent Past President of 2009 – 2010, is guiding this process.  If you are interested in serving, contact Carl Marcyan or any other past president.  We are going into our 17^th year which is a testament to the strength and credibility of the Top Cats of Illinois and many individual members.    These people express their passion for the club with their higher level of involvement and support.  They keep things going and functioning and deserve our thanks but more importantly our assistance when needed.  There are many ways to do this.  Get involved and help!

Ride Safely,

Mike Bradbury