Art Hobson
20 November 2018
Dear Cathy -
I was sorry to read of your husband's death. Clay and the Highroller Cyclery were important in my life.
I moved to Fayetteville and joined the UA faculty in 1964. In about 1972 I bought my first 10-speed bike from a shop up in Springfield Mo because one could not buy a bicycle in Fayetteville at that time. As I recall, Clay opened Highroller shortly after that time, which made it possible for a mechanical clutz such as myself to have my bike serviced. Because of Clay and Highroller, I joined a local bicycling club. The group, including Clay, went on two or three trips down to Devil's Den state park (taking the road to Hogeye and then through Starky and then down the long hill into Devil's Den), where we camped overnight and came back the next day. On one trip, just Clay and I biked back (I think the others drove back--can't remember). During that return trip, there was an incident with a dog: The dog ran out from a house, Clay tried to ward the dog off and summersaulted over his handlebars while doing so. Thankfully, Clay wasn't hurt and climbed back on his bike. I've been wary of dogs ever since.
Clay, his shop, and his enthusiasm for bicycling were a real asset to Fayetteville and a boon to my life. Cycling has been important for me beginning in grade school--2nd grade as I recall. I still ride a lot, and still patronize Highroller Cyclery. My wife Marie and I bicycle together frequently, especially during trips to Europe. For example, we bicycled for a dozen days through Croatia last summer. I'm sorry he's gone, and so sorry for your great loss Kathy. Please continue your visits to the square on Saturday morning--I always love to see old friends there.
Peace & love - Art
Art Hobson
[email protected]
525 N. Olive Avenue
Fayetteville, AR 72701