07/02/2026
Cheers to ALL OF US as we celebrate 250 years of independence! We have a lot to be thankful for as life is very good for us here in the USA. These many trails in the USA, especially those in Ohio, are particularly worthy of praise.
It's been a terrific week, here in Ohio, to be tooling around on a bicycle. Many of our clients, this week, were returning from their rides on the OTET so I was able to gather a few insights and all were unanimous in declaring that this was an outstanding experience that met or exceeded expectations! We totally agree! Ohio certainly has much to offer and those visiting for the first time find themselves planning a return visit to investigate other areas! I had one client absolutely taken and fascinated with the city of Akron! Others enjoy Canal Fulton, Mt. Vernon or Loveland. It's all good!
Once in a while, it's not as great -
Sometimes a little wrench gets thrown into the works and that is underway currently. You never know what you will get when planning a trip, months in advance, and the current situation is unfortunate. All you can do is the best that you can but it is tough. If you are out there now, I don't have to tell you that things are rough.
We do have the "heat dome" affecting the entire state currently. Zipi HQ registered a 98 degrees yesterday. High 90's prevail with heat indexes up to 105 degrees all across the state. If you are out there now- please do be extra careful and take many breaks. If anything feels a little out of sorts-STOP. Heat exhaustion can and does sneak up on all of us in conditions like this. It's no joke. We have been on the scene for rescues in this environment. Try to find a way to cool your body down.
Hop in lakes and streams to cool down if it makes sense for you. Find a garden hose. Ask someone for help in cooling down. A soak will cool your body down. Whatever it takes - Don't allow yourself to overheat, it's very dangerous and we have seen it before.
Often it's not the daytime highs that get us as much as the nighttime lows. It's just not cooling down much and this is a real bummer especially if you are camping.
The good news -
This situation seems to be temporary and the heat dome is scheduled to dissipate by Sunday. The outlook appears more normal moving forward. However, it's going to be a rough ride for those out there now.
Onward and upward! Cheers to those working through it.
Paul