Come say ‘Aloha’: Newton RAGBRAI committee asks residents to greet riders July 25

Editor's note: This is the first in an occasional series highlighting the work of many Newton volunteers as they prepare for the city's July 25 overnight stop on the 2018 RAGBRAI route.

Nothing is better than receiving a warm welcome to a new community, and that is exactly what Newton’s RAGBRAI committee is hoping to give to riders on July 25.

For the five blocks spanning West Eighth Street North to West Third Street North on North Second Avenue, the committee is asking community members to line the streets for a big “Aloha” to Newton.

“It is going to be awesome,” organizer Chantelle Lundberg said. “I want to encourage anybody in the community who is want to be a part of the festivities and watch the riders come in to town to come out to the DMACC side of North Second Avenue and welcome them to Newton.”

Lundberg said she expects the bulk of the riders will arrive starting at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 25 and continue until 6 p.m. To show them Red Pride and how great the people of Newton are, she is hoping to have greeters throughout the day.

“It is going to be decorated, but we need to have people there to welcome riders and cheer them on, that is the heart of our community and we want to encourage everybody,” Lundberg said. “People are what makes Newton what it is. Also, it is a great, safe place to be a part of the festivities.”

Those wanting to participate are asked to park in the north lot adjacent to the Innovation Center to keep vehicles clear of the route. Decorations such as beach scenes and beach ball towers and arches will be on display, and volunteers are encouraged to get in the spirit any way they can.

“Any way they want to welcome riders, whether signs, Hawaiian dress, RAGBRAI dress or just themselves saying ‘hi,’” Lundberg said.

Area church groups, businesses, daycares, sports teams or any other organization are invited to take a few hours and say “aloha” to the riders. Whether they have time for one hour, three or more, everyone is welcome.

“People are the heart and soul of our town,” Lundberg said. “We want to encourage everybody to participate.”

For more information about RAGBRAI or to inquire about time slots for the RAGBRAI welcome, follow the event on Facebook or check newtonragbrai.com.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com