One thing some visitors to Spokane notice at this time of year is the seemingly high percentage of cars adorned with racks designed to carry bikes, boats and what have you.

This isn't the only place a person would see that, of course. But it's worth noting that Spokane isn't some self-impressed ski resort/rock-climbing mecca. It's a real city. Our chief industries are not hot-tubbing and woo-hooing.

And yet, a fair number of people here still find time to enjoy outdoor recreation. That's got to be a good thing, right?

Sure. Let's count the ways.

1. Activity and exercise make people feel good, physically and mentally.

2. Being outside helps you get enough Vitamin D.

3. People riding bikes leads to wildly entertaining letters to the editor from the "Get off my lawn!" crowd.

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