As we move into the long holiday weekend, we ask that you please take a moment to remember those that have fallen in battles past and present.

These brave Marines, Soliders, Airmen & Sailors who have risked and lost all.   Let us not forget!

Central Oregon Beer Week

Central Oregon has one of the largest per-capita number of breweries of any region, and a thriving, exploding beer social scene-so it's only natural that we also have a Central Oregon Beer Week, a week-long celebration of Bend and Central Oregon's amazing beer culture.  Check out this website for all the activities, designate a driver and enjoy!  http://www.centraloregonbeerweek.com. 

Pole Pedal Paddle 2013

Bend, Oregon’s annual event, the Pole, Pedal, Paddle takes place this weekend on Saturday, May 18.  It's a relay race, with six legs that include alpine skiing/snowboarding, cross-country skiing, biking, running, canoe/kayaking and sprinting to the finish! 

I participated with my husband and father last year and this year I’m going to enjoy being a spectator.

The U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle is a fundraiser for the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation. MBSEF is a non profit organization that’s mission is to be the Northwest’s leading youth sports training organization, promoting the positive values of competitive sports including Alpine and Nordic Skiing, Snowboarding and Cycling.  Spectator festivities start at 11:00 a.m. at the Les Schwab Amphitheater area of the Old Mill District.  See you there!

Devastating Hwy. 126 Crash

Yesterday's devastating head-on collision, involving Jessica Garcia, the Burdicks, and several others  on Highway 126 just outside of Redmond reminded me of the tragic consequences of driving while distracted.  Authorities have stated that alcohol was a factor in the collision.  So please, secure the kids and dogs, put the phone in the trunk, and don't drink and drive.

For more information on the crash, visit:  http://www.ktvz.com/news/headon-crash-blocks-hwy-126-west-of-redmond/-/413192/20055276/-/xd1dq8/-/index.html

For more information on what to do if you are involved in a crash and need an attorney advocate:  http://www.brotherslaw.com/Practice-Areas/Car-Accidents.shtml

May is National Bike Month!

 

Spring has sprung and the warmer weather has many people out on their bikes.  Motorists and bicyclists need to keep a close eye out for each other.   Particularly on May 8, which is National Bike to School Day and on May 17, which is National Bike to Work Day.

If you are in a car, please be aware of bicyclists.   If you are on a bike, here are some ideas from a recent AAA article in the May/June VIA Oregon publication (by the way, the same magazine has a great photo of Tumalo Falls on page 10):

Wear a Helmet - a bike helmet properly worn is up to 85 percent effective in reducing head injury risk during a crash, and 100% effective in giving you stylish “helmet hair.”

Stand out in the Crowd - OK I know that cycling clothes look goofy.  But, one thing that they do very well is to bring attention to the cyclist.  Wear bright clothing to make yourself obvious to cars around you.

Think with Four Wheels - Bicyclists are motorists in the eyes of the law.  That means that you owe drivers the same courtesies that they owe you.  But that doesn’t make you special.  Obey all signs (including stop signs), and lights and yield to pedestrians.

Go with the Flow - Always move predictably and defensively, watching for hazards ahead.  Ride in the direction of traffic, signal when turning or changing lanes, and stay to the right when riding among faster vehicles.  Remember that in many places it’s illegal for anyone but children to ride on the sidewalk.

A comment on this last point.  Ride on the right side of the road, even in a bike lane.  The importance of this rule is not always clear, but, imagine that a car is waiting at a stop sign, intending to turn right onto the road upon which a cyclist is riding.  The car pulls up to the stop sign, and the driver looks to his left, waiting for a break in traffic, so he can pull out.  If a cyclist is riding on the wrong side of the road, they will approach this stopped car from the right side.  Directly away from where the driver is looking and expecting traffic to approach.  A break in traffic occurs and the driver pulls out.  Potentially, right into the cyclist.  Be predictable, and cycle where a driver would expect to see you.

Be safe out there.