Bike incident

So, it finally happened - a car decided to invade my personal bike space. The collision wasn't even severe enough to knock me off the bike, but it did rattle me, especially since I just did the Ride of Silence a couple of days ago. The car's right side mirror got knocked loose, and I suspect I'll be a little achy tomorrow.

Basically, the car decided I was going to turn down a sidestreet (as he was doing) rather than continue on the main road (as I planned to do). Apparently I need to use hand signals when I'm not turning, too.

Maasai Chief & warrior visit Palo Alto

There's a local interpersonal networking group called "Future Salon" that hosts a monthly get together. Normally they discuss future technologies and whatnot, but this month they had a presentation from a group called Asante Africa; the special guests were Chief Salaton Ole’ Ntutu and a warrior named Sabore Oiye. They were fascinating speakers, and their english was excellent (and far better than my pathetic Swahili). They spoke on life in their part of southern Kenya, and how they are trying to maintain their traditional values and lifestyle while adopting modern practices that make sense.

Asante Africa is a local non-profit that funds education in the Massai territories. They seem to focus not only on scholarships, but also on buildings and infrastructure.

Someone asked what advice they would have for us. One of them mimed pulling iPod earplugs out of his ears and said "children, listen to your parents".

Another person asked them what three things they value (as Maasai). Sabore responded "Generosity. Respect. And Peace."

Ride of Silence

Last night I participated in the annual "Ride of Silence"; the 5th annual ride commemorating bicyclists who have died or been injured while cycling. There were about 40 cyclists in our area who met at Homestead High School in Cupertino for a 7 PM departure. We rode four or five miles "up" to the Stevens Creek reservoir:
The ride was fabulous, and the highest climb I've done to date on my Xtracycle. Of course, coming down was easier (and much faster). The Almaden Cycle Touring Club sponsored the ride; one of the members spoke briefly before the ride and handed out a half sheet of paper listing 30 or so cyclists from the bay area who have died while cycling in the last several years. We actually rode past the spot where two were killed on a training ride a couple of months ago. Very sobering, and we all paused for a moments reflection at the roadside memorial.

On a slightly lighter, ironic note: Before we left on the ride, we all signed the now-typical waiver form, which said (in essence) "If I am injured or killed on this ride, I won't hold the Club responsible."

Pinball Show this weekend

The millionth annual Pin A Go Go pinball show is this weekend, in
Dixon CA. I plan on attending Friday thru Sunday, and will have
several of my games up for sale. The show is a great place to see old
games in great shape (for the most part). There is an entry fee, but
all the games are set on free play. There are dozens of games for
sale each year, and much trading goes on throughout the weekend.

For (some) info, see their website:

http://www.pinagogo.com/

Or, Google "Pin a go go" and you'll be able to find photos of past
years' shows.

Initial Post

Hi -

Brad here.

The blog is designed to keep family & friends aprised of where I am and what I am up to. I titled it "Travels" as I like to wander, both near and far, and this is my small effort at keeping y'all updated as to where I am, have been, and where I hope to be someday.