Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2025 | 7
By Jose Perez Lexington Clipper-Herald Tour de Nebraska options. Several local businesses and organizations have also expressed interest in providing additional food and beverage services. Elwood to welcome 500 cyclists for
“We thought we could include a popcorn machine, ice cream, nachos, etc.,” said Jauken. “We’re still a little ways from that, but those are some thoughts.” Fowler said bikers absolutely love cookies and beer, and urged the Elwood
Community members from Elwood and surrounding areas gathered Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Gosper County Senior Center to discuss plans for co-hosting the 37th annual Tour de Nebraska cycling event, which will pass through the village in June. Tour de Nebraska, which limits participation to 500 riders each year, provides cyclists a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and hospitality of rural Nebraska, according to the event’s website. Riders of all ages from around the world have praised the tour as the “most memorable adventure of their lives.” This year’s ride will take place June 24- 29. Starting point is at Curtis, followed by Elwood, Cambridge and McCook, then back to Curtis. The 500 riders will ride over 30 miles per day. During the community meeting, organizers outlined the various committees and volunteer roles needed to welcome the influx of cyclists. “This is a big undertaking, but we’re capable of being a well-organized group,” said Laurie Jauken, one of the main coordinators for TDN in Elwood. “We need volunteers for things like a welcome committee, entertainment, providing snacks and refreshments as the riders arrive in town.” The meeting covered logistical details including meal planning, camping and lodging arrangements, transportation and safety considerations. Organizers said cyclists will be arriving at various times throughout the day, with the majority expected shortly after lunchtime. “They’ll be up before sunrise, wanting to get an early start on the day’s ride,” said Ron Fowler, a Johnson Lake resident who has participated in previous Tour de Nebraska rides. “A lot of them want to finish their daily route before it gets too hot out.” To accommodate the cyclists, the community is planning a series of communal meals at the fairgrounds, including breakfast, lunch and dinner
“We’re going to try to have one big community meal for lunch, supper and
breakfast over at the park” by the fairgrounds, said organizer Jennifer Edwards. “That way they’ve got something right there they can grab.” Lodging will be a mix of camping, in the civic center and at designated sites around town, as well as home stays with local residents who have offered up extra bedrooms. Organizers are also working to secure shower facilities and transportation options. “We need homes that maybe have an extra bedroom,” said Jauken.
community to carefully consider ways to provide a beer garden and popular snacks. As the meeting wrapped up, Fowler praised the Elwood community for its thorough planning of the TDN event months in advance. He said that some communities in prior years were unprepared after learning about TDN only on the day of the event. Any updates on TDN plans for Elwood can be located on the Elwood Nebraska Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Community members who
“They’re going to come in, maybe shower, sleep and leave early the next morning.” In addition to the practical preparations, the community is plans to create a festive atmosphere, with ideas like a carnival-themed welcome area, live music and other entertainment.
want to know more about how they can help should contact Jauken at 308-325- 8447. Registration information for the Tour de Nebraska can be found at tourdenebraska.com.
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