Tough to beat the view from Terracina Avenue on a clear Sunday morning.
By John Murphy
Sunday morning it was pitch black as I flew down Boulder Avenue on my retooled bicycle, headed from Highland to Redlands.
It’s a rough, two-lane road and as loud rock music poured through my earbuds, I had a thought. Rocking all dark colors and without a headlight and unable to see what’s coming from behind, this was not the safest thing to do.
But I arrived in R-Town unharmed and one of my first stops was the El Nayar Bakery on Orange Street. It’s a must stop for for tamales and the line was out the door. As I parked my bike I watched three masked friends greet each other with elbow bumps, a very pandemic-like thing to do.
Inside I ordered two cheese tamales and consumed one on the spot. It was creamy and had a nice kick. Paired with a Mexican Coke, you can’t go wrong.
Onward I rode through the downtown area. I left the old Fox Theater in my wake and took a right on Olive Avenue. From there it was a straight shot to Terracina where I photographed the Morey Mansion for the umpteenth time. My crack research team said it was built in 1890 and there is no known architect. A pity.
Tooling along Terracina I heard a hearty “good morning” from a bicyclist who zipped past me. “Uh, hey – how’s it going?” I said, as he disappeared just beyond Redlands Community Hospital.
I was in a nice rhythm now, taking a left on Fern and following it all the way to Redlands High School. I rode by the well-secured South Campus and crossed the street to find – ta-da – an open gate. Naturally, I entered. This allowed me to explore Dodge Field in all its splendor.
Around the track I went on my Schwinn Voyageur. I took photos, learned Redlands won a state track title in 1918 and scurried up the stands to enjoy a breathtaking view. It was fun.
Then I was off, retracing my route until I was back in Highland. Best thing was, I had one tamale left.
Main Street Dog 