Greetings one and all,

I write in my capacity as GCC President to give a happy shout out to everyone in the club who participated in the Gainesville Cycling Festival this past weekend.

Many thanks to those of you who participated! Despite the talk of rain in the forecast, it largely held off and gave us some great riding weather.

A special THANK YOU to everyone who volunteered to make the festival happen! Organized rides don't just go on by themselves, and well-supported rides require a small army of dedicated volunteers.

I worked the Trail Stop on Sunday, you know, the one near the end right after the riders do several miles on CR 234, when they arrive very tired of all those potholes. Many riders commented to us that they were grateful for the support and pleased with the rest stops.

We can always improve, potholes or not. So if you have suggestions, this here is your chance -- send them to me, while the memory of the event is still fresh in your mind.

Improvements will involve more volunteers, so if you want a better ride next year, please consider stepping forward -- and tell me so.

I also plan to reach out to key people among this year's volunteers as we look ahead to next year -- your experience is valuable.

Enjoy your ride, wherever you ride -- road, gravel, or off-road!

Stephen Perz

GCC President

Bike Education Director

League of American Bicyclists LCI #864