If there was one theme that stood out to us today, Porkers, it was the word "stewardship." Both Anne and Dieter referred to themselves as stewards, emphasizing the uniqueness and the value of our favorite Iowa tradition. It was clear that they take seriously the responsibility of guiding it, caring for it, and keeping it safe. Interestingly, they didn't claim sole responsibility for that. We're paraphrasing here, but Dieter said something like this: "I'm thrilled to be RAGBRAI's new director, but someday after I'm gone, the success of this great ride will not be dependent on me." RAGBRAI depends, he said, on the many communities, partners, charters, vendors, churches, non-profits, the Troopers, the Iowans who live along the routes, the RAGBRAI staff, and of course, the riders.
We can say today that RAGBRAI is in good hands. But we knew that already. As ever, RAGBRAI continues to be in many good hands, including ours. Including yours. We'll each do our parts to keep this amazing, colorful, corny tradition rolling through our state for years to come.
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