Northern Transcon from Crew Member Perspective (Retta Deane)

The following is Retta Deane's own account:

Someone suggested a post on this blog concerning the role of the crew.  I speak as a greenhorn crew member.  As Susan our fearless leader stated pre tour, "We will have fun!"  Two veteran crew members whom I sought pre tour advice from said, "Expect organized chaos the first few days, pitch in and help where you can, then in a few days you begin to learn the routine."  All of the above has proven true.

I would describe each day as fast, fun, and furious - never a dull moment, long and exhausting, but extremely rewarding.  The duties range from hand washing thousands of dishes (PAC runs a "green" environmentally considerate feeding of their 48-58 hungry cyclists and crew), to purchasing groceries, preparing, cooking and presenting nutritious, delicious breakfasts and lunches, plus 2-4 rest stops a day.  As Susan said, "Can you believe it?  It is as if we open and close a restaurant twice a day!!"

Since I had our car with me, I have been privileged to help many cyclists get a "boost" from one rest stop to another, or a ride into the hotel after lunch.  A half dozen minor injuries occurred during this tour, and it has been my privilege to be with the affected riders at the emergency room where they received help, and to give rides to pharmacies.

I thank God for the marvelous experience of seeing more of His creative handiwork in the USA and for the joy of meeting amazing people who have become "like family."

Fearless Leader Susan Notorangelo

From left, Retta Deane, Michelle, Alice (joined us midway), Aracely

Front to back, Zoe Bohaty, Barb Bohaty, Dave Jordan, John Lake, Susan Notorangelo

Veronica, Michelle and Retta Deane

Retta Deane and Aracely

Phil Bohaty - long time crew member, Barb's husband and father of Zoe

John Lake, another long time crew member

Jim, Susan, and Susan's daughter Rebecca

Lunch on a rainy day under canopy

Still had time for some sightseeing

Our faithful CRV did a lot of duty.  Susan taking a picture

Jerry, veteran PAC Tour rider and crew member, joined us in Minnesota.  Like other crew members, he rode every other day.

Lon and Susan have been running these tours for 30+ years.  Lon designed and built all of the storage units in both trailers to make efficient use of space.  He is also chief mechanic and is an expert at making things work.