SIKESTON -- The first Trike Riders International Rally, which was held in Sikeston and Miner July 24-26, brought close to 1,000 visitors to the area! The rally, which was sponsored by the Sikeston-Miner Convention & Visitors Bureau, was an opportunity for Trike riders of all ages and representing 32 states to gather and swap stories, ideas, play games, and dine and shop at all of our area restaurants and retail shops.

The feedback that we have received from the TRI Rally folks has been very positive. They have already committed to having their second rally here in Sikeston on July 16-18 2009. They hope to double their attendance!

As with any endeavor, this first TRI rally was a learning experience. I would like to thank all of the businesses and restaurants that participated in the Scavenger Hunt, as well as all of those who donated items for door prizes, drinks, banners, and included the Trikers on their marquees.

One of the things that I heard over and over from the TRI participants was how friendly the folks in Sikeston and Miner are! They loved the area, and were so appreciative of the Southern Hospitality that they were shown.

What a sight it was to see 121 of these trikes parading west on Malone Avenue then turning south on Main Street as they headed to the Stars and Stripes Museum in Bloomfield! Thanks also to the State Troopers who accompanied them on this trip as well as to Chris Rataj for the excellent aerial photography.

This column would not be complete without paying a tribute to Tim Jaynes. Tim was very successful in giving a face to the Sikeston-Miner Convention & Visitors Bureau. He was always there to record and bring to print the workings of this organization. Tim and I spent most of the day together the day before he died; his tenacity and expertise in his field was noticeably present. He will be sorely missed, by me, by the CVB, and by this community.