Bike | Pexels by Leandro Boogalu
Bike | Pexels by Leandro Boogalu
Storm Lake’s 2023 overnight RAGBRAI stop on July 23 will welcome riders with a friendly face—having gained fame from the 1970s’ popular “Have a Nice Day”—with retro elements accompanied by classic bicycle components and a splash into Storm Lake waters.
Jennifer Felton, local artist and the logo’s designer, shared that the concept was built around RAGBRAI’s 50th anniversary, as well as one of Storm Lake’s most notable attractions: the water. Taking inspiration from one of the world’s most iconic images, the “Have A Nice Day” smiley face, the logo’s nod to RAGBRAI’s early rides is clear.
“We considered the neon yellow color in association with the nostalgic expressiveness of the 70s, while highlighting what’s unique to Storm Lake with the bright cyan blue,” says Felton. “Integrating the bike parts and accessories perfectly captures the spirit of the event, and the animated wink underscores the welcoming and friendly nature of our community.”
Joe Kelly of Kaleidoscope Marketing and committee chair says, “The theme is a really fun throwback, which should present well to participants as they ride into town toward the lake. We’re excited to see it come to life in print and on social media.”
The public enjoyed beverages and hors d'oeuvres before a short 5:15 presentation of the theme and logo. Information on hosting riders, volunteer opportunities and fundraising were also shared at this time. The committee provided a link to the online store where official clothing merchandise will be sold: https://slragbraiwof23.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Storm Lake’s RAGBRAI mission statement is, “To cast a wide net of activities, entertainment, and diverse opportunities to showcase Storm Lake to encourage return visits.”
Storm Lake will mark the first overnight stop for RAGBRAI 2023. The ride’s 50th anniversary—or “RAGBRAI L” in Roman numerals—will celebrate “One L of a Ride – Since 1973” July 22-29, 2023. Riders will cycle from Sioux City to Storm Lake throughout the day on Sunday, July 23 and stay overnight before departing for Carroll the following morning. The remaining overnight stops are: Ames, Des Moines, Tama-Toledo, Coralville, and Davenport. RAGBRAI will reveal their complete route across Iowa on March 13.
Plans to welcome an anticipated 20,000 riders are taking shape. The Storm Lake RAGBRAI committee, led by retired superintendent Carl Turner, is currently working on housing opportunities, fundraising, a website, merchandise, signing up volunteers, booking entertainment, and more. Information will be available online and on Facebook and Instagram in the coming weeks. Questions may be sent to ragbraistormlake@gmail.com.
Original source can be found here.
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