Date: November 18, 2024
Location: CraftRoots Brewing, Milford, MA
Highlights From Our Fall Chapter Meeting
The 2024 Fall Chapter Meeting brought together members, new faces, and business partners for an engaging and collaborative evening. Hosted at CraftRoots Brewing, the meeting celebrated our chapter’s achievements, introduced new initiatives, and set the stage for an exciting year ahead. Here’s a quick rundown of what was discussed:
Key Topics Covered:
1. Welcome and Introductions
Kevin Sylvia, Chapter President, opened the meeting with introductions, welcoming new members and guests. We were thrilled to meet attendees from across the region, including representatives from Karbon Bikes, Milford Bikes, and Forza BBQ.
2. Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Josh Handverger provided an overview of our chapter’s financial health. Highlights included:
- Record-high active membership.
- Revenue aligned with projections, with expenses significantly below budget.
- Discussions on forward-thinking investments, including adaptive mountain biking projects and inclusive trail design.
3. Guest Presentation by Dennis Wilson (RI NEMBA)
Dennis shared plans for a groundbreaking trail network in Gloucester, Rhode Island, featuring professionally built flow trails—a first for Southern New England. The chapter voted to donate $1,000 toward this ambitious project.
4. State of the Trails
Trail updates included:
- Vietnam: New trails like “Varitek” and planned beginner-friendly jump lines.
- Brandon School Project: 1.5 miles of trails built for at-risk youth, with plans for future expansion.
- Millbury: Pump track and skills park projects in the early planning stages.
5. Best Damn Ride 2024 Recap
This flagship event saw record attendance and revenue. Key improvements for 2025 include enhanced signage, navigation aids, and volunteer coordination.
6. Toys for Tots Ride
Save the date! This year’s ride will take place on December 8, 2024. Volunteers are needed to lead and sweep group rides.
7. Elections
Congratulations to our newly elected Members-at-Large:
- Kyle Grendell
- Kim Powell
Looking Ahead:
- Charitable Contributions: The chapter approved $500 donations to Worcester Earn-A-Bike and the Student Conservation Association.
- New Initiatives: Plans for aMTB signage and additional adaptive trail features are underway.
- Next Chapter Meeting: Scheduled for February 2025.
Dive Deeper:
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of this meeting. Stay connected and let’s keep building momentum for 2025!