HI guys - by starting this thread I know from experience it will create some confusion.
That is because the Fremont Parade hasn't happened yet, and when it does, someone will INVARIABLY start their own thread not knowing that this one is already on the board.
So.....but despite this, I want to throw out some pre-ride info and maybe get some feedback. First, the weather: The weather forecast is mixed at best, disappointing at worst. It won't be as bad as last year, though. But it does sound like a small front will be moving in Friday night into Saturday morning with the typical overcasts, cool and drizzly skies. High temps will get into the sixties eventually, though, which is good. At 11AM when the riders hit the road, it will probably by 56-60. This does not concern me considering last years high turnout in rain!
Next - the painting party and related info. Just yesterday, they announced the painting party location. It is not Hale's Ales again. I will not post the location in this thread - join the yahoo group solcycles to find out or maybe pm me but I can't guarantee a reply as i will be traveling. The ride organizers are as photographer concience as they have ever been, but I don't think that affected the late decision on announcing the location. Suffice it to say, photographers need a special pass to enter the indoor painting party, but outdoors, its still "be discrete, courteous, ask first, respect eveyone's wishes etc". BTW - word is that >600 will ride (last years count) but not all will be at the painting party. Basically the buzz is at Solcycles that many people want to talk about photography and how to have it the way they want it at all times (i.e. totally wanting to be able to call the shots - "yes, I want my picture taken, but only when I am good and prepared"). The reply is "we will do the best we can but, to be honest, if you are overly squeemish about being photographed, maybe you shouldn't be riding in the parade". Nuff said, but still follow the rules and be respectful!
Then there is this rumor about a leaflet announcing a special photoshoot a la Spencer Tunick where they are wanting to get 99 riders to pose. That would be awesome. anyone know any more about this?
Riders should be all painted up by 10:30AM and out the door. Assembly and group photos will be from 10:30AM to 11:00AM. The ride out of Ballard then begins at 11AM with 12PM still being the "Official" start of the ride.
PLease put pics here, but I can't control everything. Here are a few pics from last year that I took but have not posted at OCC before...
EDIT: ah, Crispus - you must live at OCC
I mean, thanking my post before I've even finished editing it
cheers!
Klondike