A Tribute to Ali Al-Salman
January 02, 2007
It seemed that Ali Al-Salman just couldn't get enough of Portland's bicycle culture. Though he was often busy with family activities, Ali always made time to appear at plenty of bicycle events over the last few years. The 44-year-old translator was most famous for bringing his guitar along on the nighttime Midnight Mystery Rides, to strum, serenade and sing the night away. He attended more rides than anyone else in the three years the monthly rides have happened.
Ali passed away on New Year's Day while in LA to attend a wedding with family. The Midnight Mystery Ride organizers are dedicating the next ride to him. You can hear examples of Ali's music on his MySpace page.
Ali had recently recorded his first CD. He carried copies of it around with him everywhere he went and was excited to share his music with people. The song titles alone - Goodness to the World, I Love Everybody in this World, I'm Evolving I'm Learning - are a snapshot of the gentle addition Ali made to our bike community. He was grateful to all the people who organized events and he enjoyed attending, meeting people and sharing his famous chocolate brownies and hot jasmine tea.
Ali will be missed.
Posted by orbike at January 2, 2007 05:00 PM
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Comments
I saw Ali out at events a lot. He really was a special person and I'm sorry for this news.
Posted by: Chris at January 3, 2007 07:26 PM
This is sad. Oh man. Ali was a great guy. He was a kind and gentle soul who really just wanted the best in this world - for people to love each other, share their love, and make peace. He also loved nachos!
Posted by: Brad at January 3, 2007 07:53 PM
Indeed Ali will be missed. He was the quintessential “quiet, unassuming type”. Seeing him arrive for a ride was always a source of joy. It meant in this fast-paced world of change, visiting and riding along side Ali would be like it had always been. It is nice in life to have things that can always be counted upon, and Ali both his presence and his character were steady and dependable, and all the more comforting for it.
Peace Ali.
Posted by: West Cougar at January 4, 2007 04:10 AM
I have not seen Ali in months -- but i knew him mostly when he shared music and tea with everyone under the wings of the T-Horse between 1997-2001. such a kind and lovely man. blessings to you for announcing this and dedicating the ride to him! though I have never done the mystery ride before, I think i will.
Posted by: charla at January 4, 2007 08:53 PM