Greetings one and all,

I write with multiple points:

1. There have recently been multiple attacks by dogs on GCC club riders along Highway 441 northbound just north of McIntosh. One incident resulted in a crash with injury to the rider and a ruined bike. Another incident nearly had the same outcome. You are hereby advised of the potential risk on this section of that road.

2. If you have experienced or directly witnessed these or other such incidents, it is a good idea to report them. For animal attacks, that means contacting the county Animal Control Office or the Sheriff's office. It is important to build a record of documented problems with details about incidents, which can lead to citations of pet owners and other actions to remove threats to cyclists.

2a. In the case of the dogs on Highway 441 north of McIntosh, reporting should go thru Marion County Animal Control, which can be contacted at 352-671-8727. Their URL with more info is Animal control and pet laws | Marion County, FL.

2b. For Alachua County, here is the relevant info: Animal Services. The relevant contact for enforcement and animal control issues appears to be xxxxxx@alachuacounty.us.

3. I want to remind everyone that GCC carries insurance for cases of personal injury incurred due to crashes on GCC rides. If you have a crash on a GCC ride that results in injury, contact the GCC Ride Captain regarding possible insurance claims. This is one of the many benefits of club membership

Be safe out there!

Stephen Perz

GCC President