Reading in the Rain, July 23, 2009

I’ll read anything. Compulsive habit. If my eyes are open, they need to read. I pick up a lot that way, whether I want to or not.

Today I learned some pretty interesting stuff while awaiting steamed shrimp in my favorite haunt. The first was in the latest issue of “Spokes,” a monthly tab devoted to all things cycling in the Mid-Atlantic region. It has great information on trails in Maryland, strength and conditioning for bicycle events, and a comprehensive calendar of events for bicycle adventure in the region. Be sure to check it out, whether you are a competitive, recreational or commuting cyclist. Lots of good information about trails, training, safety, and events.

This month’s cover story was about cycling demonstration in Washington called Naked Bike Ride. It wasn’t really as risque as it sounds (nothing like the hikers on summer solstice,) but fifty scantily attired advocates pedaled from 14th and K to the White House in their fourth annual “wear what you dare” ride to gain respect for bicycling commuters. Fascinating.

The other interesting thing I read was on the back of a firefighter. They’re having a convention here in town and a few drifted in our direction. Couldn’t help but admire (and read) his t-shirt, which celebrated an annual Rocktoberfest. The giant striper under the title suggested this might be a fishing tournament instead of a Bavarian heritage festival. I couldn’t read the fine print without violating personal space, so I politely inquired and learned that, indeed, the Rocktoberfest is held every fall in Ocean City. It’s one of the biggest tourneys of the year, with about 300 boats and sports fishermen of all ages. Contestants can fish in the bay, off the pier, or in the ocean. Prizes are awarded for the largest rockfish, but trout and skate have categories too. Rocktoberfest runs concurrently with hurricane season, so weather conditions offer an additional element of suspense. The fireman said the rocking and rolling was a gas last year.

See what you can learn while waiting for shrimp?