The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WAITSBURG - If you've ever watched the Tour de France, you know race supporters and local residents can be stretched out for miles along the route to cheer on the riders.

No need to do so for the two-wheeled visitors from Cycle Oregon next week.

Their "cowbell" moment through town will come between 1 - 2 p.m. on Tuesday when they pass through town coming in from Starbuck on Bolles Road south down Main Street to 8th and east down 8th to Caroline.

Local Cycle Oregon organizers hope Waitsburgers will turn out to ring in the visitors, if nothing else for the sheer spectacle of seeing more than 2,200 cyclists enter a town with half that number in population.

Those who are helping the Portland-based bicycle tour group set up the riders' three days here also encourage Waitsburg residents to participate in the events and take advantage of the many vendors who will be at Preston Park next week.

Plus, let's not forget the musical entertainment, which will include Paul Gregutt, Frog Hollow Band and the Azure Dance Troup.

Organizers hope that, aside from the many volunteering tasks ahead for local residents, Waitsburgers will also take an opportunity to enjoy having such a festive atmosphere in town and so many things to take part in.

The Cycle Oregon visitors, many of whom will stay with local families, at area hotels or camp at the Fairgrounds, will stay Tuesday and Wednesday nights before heading south to Oregon for the 100th anniversary of the Pendleton Roundup.

A complete lineup of Waitsburg activities is in today's special Cycle Oregon section starting on page 7.

Most events are hosted free of charge.