I"m writing this on May 16th. The coronavirus has swept through the world - leaving death and financial destruction in it's wake. In our little corner of Colorado, except for not working, and needing to wear a mask when shopping, not much has changed. To date Garfield County has had 113 cases, with 13 of those in Rifle. Thankfully, the virus has not been an emergency issue here.

We have had many conversations about social expectations and safety. Jim, Genny, and Oren, are not touring this year. They've decided to stay close to home until a vaccine is developed.

Originally I said I would ride if restaurants had dine in eating. Arizona just opened up this week. All of our lodging is open. Jacinto says open means they want customers, we are good to go. I do feel that the risk on a typical touring day is less than running errands at home. We will be riding in the fresh air all day long, socially distanced. In town, we will be respectful of the locals and wear masks when appropriate.

I am leaving in all of the trip organization part because we did so much work over the winter. It is a real shame that we have this excellent route and will be riding it largely alone. I understand, but I'm still sad that our good bicycle buddies will sit this out. See the photo below from a happy tour.

In Jeff's journal, CHOICES, he starts out riding through my home territory - Delta, CO. He mentions having no issues riding through Trump Country - Trump fans are all for breaking quarantine. Hmmm - I've never thought of it that way. I mentioned the journal to Wayne Estes. Wayne also has a tour starting soon. Wayne said his plan is to take his cue from shop employees. If they are wearing a mask, he will wear one. If not, he won't either. That seems like an appropriate approach. There's no use in stirring up any COVID 'hoax' talk by wearing a mask in an area with a strong opposing sentiment.