July, 2025 In the Loop

River-to-Sea Loop Alliance Welcomes New Board Members

We are thrilled to welcome three dynamic new members to our Board of Directors. Jeff Shepherd is a well-known figure around West Volusia – you might see him playing hot Jazz in the Alley or Courtyard, commuting on his bike, or practicing for a marathon. Carlee McKinney is always out and about shining at her role as Partner Development Coordinator at Visit West Volusia and officer in several West Volusia organizations. Joe Cona manages the finances of major companies and large organizations like Florida Freewheelers. When not working he can be found enjoying our trails and leading cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Trailside Benches Honoring Trail Champions

Our Trailside Commemorative Bench project is kicking off this summer. Benches will celebrate past trail champions and visionaries as well as current and future people, organizations, places and events. They will improve our trails by making them more attractive, comfortable and memorable. The first benches will be placed trailside in Volusia County beginning with benches honoring trail visionary Herb Hiller and trail champion Roy Walters. Maybe you have a story to tell or a thought for an event or special place to recognize. If you’d like to be involved or have ideas for benches visit here.

Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation Meeting

By Jeff Shepherd

As a new director for the St. Johns River to Sea Loop Alliance, one of my first tasks was representing our organization at the recent Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation (FGTF) meeting in Sanford. It was a fantastic chance to share updates about the Loop and the Alliance, and an incredible introduction to the passionate people and critical issues shaping greenways and trails across Central Florida and beyond.

We’re reaching out to invite everyone to take part in a survey that will help us better plan events, programs, and resources to support the Loop and those who use it. Please complete the survey by August 29th.

This year is going to be a big one so be sure to follow us on social media and stay tuned for everything we have coming up! If you have any questions or ideas, feel free to reach out to us anytime at Info@River2SeaLoop.org.

Thank you for being part of our growing Loop family. Let’s keep moving forward together!

Why does it matter?

Trails like the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop bring so many benefits to our communities, including:

Improved health and fitness
Equitable transportation and mobility options
Enhanced quality of life
Increased property values
Economic growth for local businesses
Low-impact, high-value tourism
Environmental sustainability
Safer, stronger neighborhoods

Survey

Trails do more than connect places — they connect people.

Here’s how you can get involved and support the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop:

🤝 Become a Partner

Are you part of a business, agency, or organization? Partner with us to promote health, equity, and community-building through trails.

💚 Get Involved

We’re always looking for passionate people to join as advisors, ambassadors, or correspondents. Help us build a healthier, more connected future.

🌿 Be a Friend of the Trail

Trail users and supporters can become Trail Alliance Friends participate in events and help grow the trail movement.

🎁 Donate

Make a one-time or recurring donation to keep the Loop thriving for generations to come. Every dollar makes a difference.

🙌 Volunteer

Our events and rides rely on incredible volunteers! Lend a hand with preparation, recruiting, leading rides, or serving at events.

Thank you for being part of the Loop community. Together, we’re building something great!