Happy New Year!

On behalf of the officers I would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy New Year!

The past year would not have been successful without the help of those members and friends who contributed to the future of our organization through volunteering for our club. Thank You! Your time and generosity is much appreciated!!

I would also like to specially thank Jess and Kent at Gettysburg Bicycle and Fitness. Many of you may not know that our club was on the brink financial failure a few years back. Gettysburg Bicycle provided MBM the opportunity to earn our keep so that we could continue being a gateway for mountain bike enthusiasts in Michuax State Forest. Gettysburg Bicycle has also provided benefits to becoming a member of MBM which far outweigh the cost of membership. Thank You Gettysburg Bicycle!

I would also like to thank Mike and the Iron Cross for their continued support of MBM and our annual MBM Checkpoint in the 2013 Iron Cross. We look forward to seeing you all at the top of Hike-A-Bike Hell in 2014!

My past two years as President of MBM have seen many changes to our club and to the forest we call home. It was also my intention to "Build Bridges" and we have been extremely successful. We have tried to erase lines drawn between riding contingents, initiate constructive communication with Forestry and close gaps between user groups in hopes that everyone can get along and all will have a voice in Michaux. There is still much progress to be made.

Recently we have seen a significant increase in the recreational use of Michaux's trail systems. The stress this creates on the natural resource has not gone unnoticed. I encourage everyone to be good stewards of this gift we enjoy. Respect trail usage signs, tread lightly and exercise common sense and tolerance. If we are responsible members of the forest community it will be unnecessary to legislate responsibility in the forest. Keep our forests free!

As mountain bikers we must yield the right of way on trails. To your credit, most of you do this already. This courtesy greatly improves our image and strengthens the bonds between user groups. It only takes a second to stop and step aside.

Make trails fun for everyone!!

A few years ago one of our current members (and a past MBM president) worked with the Borough of Chambersburg to create The Chambersburg Pump Track at the corner of Hood and King streets in town. This year the Chambersburg Town Council, Chambersburg Athletic Department and Volvo Construction Equipment (Shippensburg) enabled MBM members to extend the Pump Track and create a new jump line. The park was renamed Chambersburg Bike Park and represents bicycle advocacy and cooperation between local business, city officials and local organizations. I would like to extend our gratitude to Chambersburg and Volvo CE for making this possible. I also invite you to visit the Chambersburg Bike Park. It's fun and free! (Open during daylight hours and only when the track is clear and dry)

To everyone that contributed to the success of MBM in the past year we thank you!
Remember to Thank your Ride Leader and Sweeper in 2014!
Happy New Year everyone and see you at a ride soon!

Brian "slowride"