It’s September. That means only one thing: some big-time sporting action is happening right now.

I know what you’re thinking; but no, I’m not talking about high school cross country running, volleyball and football. Nor am I talking about professional football or Major League Baseball’s pennant race. I’m talking about the exciting world of cycling!

I’m sure most of you caught the thrilling first handful of stages of the Vuelta a España (Tour of Spain, among the classic races in pro cycling). What’s that you say? You’re NOT following the Vuelta! Hmm. … I guess I get it. No Lance Armstrong, no interest, right? That makes sense; you don’t have a local “horse” in an international race in Spain, so it’s not on your radar. And you are, in fact, more interested in the other sports mentioned earlier. That’s fair.

While followers of professional cycling are way outnumbered by those who watch high school sports, I would venture to guess that at least one-third of area residents have at least one bike in their homes. Maybe those bikes lately have spent more time in garages than on the road. All it takes is a little motivation, some nice weather and maybe a few pumps to re-inflate the tires and set you on your merry, carefree cycling way. More on how to get back on your bikes later.

You don’t have to be able to ride fast or do a bunch of tricks. All you need is a desire to enjoy a truly timeless and ageless pursuit. For experienced riders, there’s a good deal of nostalgia involved with riding a bike. As children, our first two-wheelers represent freedom and expanded boundaries. As an adolescent, that shiny, new bike and plenty of pavement drastically expand your world from just your neighborhood to blocks upon blocks of neighborhoods. And even as an adult, there’s no better way to explore your community than at a leisurely pace on a bike. Give it a try; you’ll see things differently than when you’re zipping past in a car.

A perfect mix

Personally, there are three things I consistently tell people I am passionate about: journalism, cycling and music. These are the things that best define who I am and never cease to bring me joy. So imagine my delight when neighborsgo agreed to put on a bike ride and concert in Castle Hills!

Everyone is welcome to join the free, family friendly main event, an approximately 1-½-mile bike ride and one-block tyke ride, from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 12 at the Castle Hills Village Shops, 2450 King Arthur Blvd., Lewisville.

In addition to the fun time riding bikes, there will be face painting, prize raffles and crafts. And quite a few neighborsgo friends also will be there:

• Baylor Medical Center Carrollton will offer free health screenings.

• Bundles Gourmet will have free refreshments.

• Hard-kicking martial artists with Taekwondo America will put on a display of their skills.

• Dancers from Carrollton-based Diane Cole Johnson School of Dance will show off their graceful moves.

• And closing the big event will be “five women over 40” who can really rock — Merry and the Mood Swings!

Whether on two, three or training wheels, we hope you come out to Tour de neighborsgo in Castle Hills Saturday.

Robert Tracy is assistant managing editor of design for neighborsgo. Contact him at rtracy@neighborsgo.com or at neighborsgo.com/robert_tracy.

TOUR DE NEIGHBORSGO

What: Community bike ride, family activities, performances and rock concert

When, where: 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday Sept. 12 at the Castle Hills Village Shops, 2450 King Arthur Blvd., Lewisville.

For more information, e-mail community@neighborsgo.com. Check out Sept. 11’s edition for a feature on cycling and final details about Tour de neighborsgo.

 

 

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As the final weeks of summer approach, I’m flashing back and getting all kinds of nostalgic. I’ve caught myself thinking about those school-age years when summer was a time to really stretch my legs and be in my community.

During those formative years, my community was South Garland — La Prada and Northwest Highway, right where Mesquite, Dallas and G-Town meet. The blocks, people and places are as vivid now as they were then. In fact, maybe even more so because I — gasp — kinda miss ’em.

So, without further ado (save a hat tip to Andie Smith for writing her awesome and inspirational post), the following are my memories of growing up a Garlandite (roughly 1980-99, neither in chronological nor logical order). I hope you catch yourself nodding in agreement (leave comments, pretty please).

 

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