Anyone who has lived in this Valley for any amount of time knows Brent Carpenter. If they don't know who he is then they've at least been likely to see his enthusiastic smile and wave to all he passes, along with a honk from his horn - from the saddle of his bicycle. Rain, cold and snow, or blistering heat doesn't keep Brent from the bike. He rode for years through the back roads of Cache Valley to get to and from work. His dim headlight could be seen late at night and his blazing orange flag could be seen throughout the day. Brent is a person who truly characterizes all who live in Cache County as we hope to think of ourselves - good, cheerful and always positive. It was only fitting that Brent was chosen to represent us and what the fire from Greece represents as he carried the Olympic Torch into the Spectrum to the cheers of thousands.
I've known Brent for about 15 years. I've worked on his bike at numerous times and occasions. Sometimes it's been an easy fix - a zip tie to his American Flag. Sometimes it's been a free adjustment that ends up becoming what I feared considering the poor quality of some of his past bikes and the expected condition given the use it was exposed to. Through all of those visits with Brent it's been a joy to help keep Brent's bike on the road.
Recently Brent retired from his job at USU food services. His co-workers celebrated with the perfect gift for Brent - a new bike. We were lucky to be part of that and help set up Brent on his new bike - but I'm sure not his last. This sort of thing is the kind of instance that make this job truly fun. Brent was as excited as ever. The bike was 'customized' to be the perfect utility machine.
Brent now lives in Logan so his miles have probably gone down. Even so, I still see Brent often. Sometimes he's on his old bike when he's not riding his new GT - maybe it's the rain bike? It was an occurrence that brought a smile to my face last month as Brent pulled up next to me and waved to me through my window, smile at 100% and sharing the best contagious happiness. Thanks Brent, for letting us be a part of your journey down the road - and for being part of ours.
