State of ACTC
40th Anniversary 1976-2016
Vibrant, strong, energetic, responsible, gentle, and generous are terms that come to mind when thinking of our beloved Almaden Cycle Touring Club. We will be celebrating ACTC’s 40th Anniversary in January 2016, and hope to have one of the founding members, first VP and 2nd President Peter Enright at that General Meeting. The late John Bass wrote in 1993, “The history of ACTC is really a history of the members who made it a success”. True to that statement, I am grateful to so many members, and acknowledge their contribution and dedication to the ACTC family.
Challenges Ahead
Just as on Billy Goat rides, there are always mountains that lay ahead to challenge us. Tierra Bella and Sierra to the Sea are still going strong and both were filled to near capacity this year. However, new regulations forced us to be nimble. There are also more competition from commercial rides and fund-raising events. Our chairs Michael Hudick and Steve Crosby and their capable staffs are mindful of the challenge. ACTC is also reaching out to cooperate with other bicycle clubs to co-promote each other’s events. Compete, we will! Nimble and swift, we remain.
We are careful to minimize expenses and not be wasteful. For example, a nominal fee is charged for some events to ensure members who sign up will show up and therefore food will not go to waste.
Our membership is aging so we have been sponsoring programs to attract younger cyclists (Turning Wheels for Kids, San Jose Bicycle Club Junior Program, Winona’s Kidical Mass, Gardner Academy, Helmet Fitting Programs, reduced fee or free for children to join events like Russian River Rally and Awards Dinner).
Moving Forward
Although nearly 40 years young, stale, old, boring, mean, and selfish should never be associated with ACTC. John Bass further wrote, “ACTC is many things to many people, but it is a place to bicycle and make friends above all else. Our Founding Fathers way back there in 1976 were on the right track!” To remain true to ACTC’s principle, it is entirely up to all of us to uphold its legacy. Hope to be around to see the next 40th!
Best,
Tony Le, ACTC President
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