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Let me start off by saying what a privilege and an opportunity it is to be the new directorof the Twin Cities Spoke of the International Christian Cycling Club. It is my hope and prayer that I will be able to fill the shoes as well as those who have preceded me. A special thank-you to our outgoing director Jeannie and the encouragement of many that have expressed their confidence in me.
 A little of my background: I have now reached the milestone of being the big six-oh. Although I would prefer the title of Senior Saint or even that “maturing guy”, the reality is you could join the chorus of my wife who calls me "my little old man" and my children who referred to me as elderly. I have been married for over 38 years to an absolute solid Proverbs 31 woman, who lived and modeled Christianity for a full 12 years before I was saved. I have three grown daughters, one granddaughter, and another one due in early September. Therefore I do have a soft spot in my heart for those little ones. Serving in Vietnam as a Marine has given me a connection with those that have served in the military and especially those who have given their lives to ensure the freedoms we have in this country. I do not take those for granted! I used to be a “Neanderthal Biker”, commonly known as a runner. However, with the advancement of arthritis and three knee surgeries I have gravitated towards this wonderful sport. I am still getting used to the nuances, such as you sit on a saddle, not a seat, but the saddle sits on the seat post!
Well, enough about me and on to our club. The Twin Cities Spoke is one of 33 clubs listed as members of the Minnesota Cycling Federation (MCF). The members of these various clubs represent a wide spectrum of interests. Many want solo rides to enjoy scenery or to keep fit, some relish the social aspect of group rides and then there are those who love to compete and will concentrate on the racing opportunities the sport offers. Our club is no different as we offer multiple group rides on different days and locations geared towards different goals. Please consider joining a group ride to experience the camaraderie of fellow members or if you’re on that sweet solo ride give glory to God for His wonderful creation. Have that burning desire to go way long? We offer that too as it is called Randonneuring and is headed up by Steve Gerber. Many mid-range “Tours” are also available. Matt Lovaas heads up the Racing Team if head to head competition is an interest. Numerous opportunities exist to race through-out the state. Want to race but just against the clock? Then try our very own Tuesday Night Timetrial. It is our clubs direct outreach to the bike community and continues to be well recognized as one of the premiere time trial events. Joel Boelke is the point person; so whether you want to give it a go or lend a hand to continue our fabulous event, contact Joel for more information. But beyond these activities we have the distinction of having our Lord Jesus Christ as a personal Lord and Savior as the common denominator for all of us. That is exciting as well as sobering. It is by His grace and grace alone that we can be called children of theKing. So no matter what your interest, why do we exist as a club? The answer is in I Cor.9:23: “I do all of this for the sake of the gospel that I may share in its blessings.”
My vision moving forward? I would love to see us grow in numbers and involvementin the activities of the Spoke. To see us reach out in witness and grow in sanctification would be a blessing. One goal is to have a “club wide” service project such as Serve My Starving Children or Adopt-a- Highway program. Maybe even providing a neutral water hand-up at a road race and let the riders keep an IC3 water bottle.
But I cannot do these alone and I am asking the membership to partner with me to make us a club that makes a difference in people’s lives.
Our main method of communication continues to be our web site which is driven by Tim Turnquist’s capable and diligent hands. It would be great to have everyone log their miles just to see what sort of totals we could achieve. Please stop by the site frequently to keep abreast of our activities. I covet everyone’s insight and wisdom so always feel free to contact me directly in case a general forum post might not be the best for you. I have no problem with constructive criticism, but when bringing a complaint please also bring a workable solution! My personal e-mail is:
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We have a prayer team that is ready, willing and able to hold your requests before the Lord. Please use it as there is power in prayer.
Finally, remember that as you “Ride the Colors” we are all ambassadors of Christ. MayGod Bless and keep the rubber on the road.
--Don Callander |
Pending the formal approval from the International Office, Jeannie Scholz is transitioning into the Spoke Director position. I am very excited to see where God will take this club under her capable leadership. She brings a passion for Christ, cycling and people -- and is very committed to see this club continue to flourish. And now, a note from Jeannie:
