• Grow membership. Gain insight as to why approximately 220 members did not renew their memberships in 2024. A new member ride with lunch is being planned.

• Develop new routes on roads with bike paths.

• Review donations policy.

• Increase number of social rides. Rather than name a chair for this activity, we have chosen to approach a small number of members who would be willing to plan a simple social event in the area of their rides. An email to about a dozen ride leaders was sent last week to solicit ideas.

• Explore creative ride leader incentives beyond ride leader jerseys.

I am very excited with the energy of our new board and am very grateful for the time that the focus group participants dedicated to our club during a busy December.

Representing Florida Bicycle this year is Board Member Rich Garrett, who will participate in discussions on best practices, innovative programs, and policies that promote safer streets and stronger bicycle networks. He will also take part in Lobby Day, advocating for congressional support of legislation that improves conditions for people who bicycle nationwide.

Rich will be joined by Florida Bicycle member Ed Fendley, who also serves on the League of American Bicyclists' board, and Yasmin Al-Moghrabi, a Young Safety Road Leader and Ph.D. candidate in Transportation Engineering at Florida International University. Together, they will ensure Florida is well represented in key national discussions on bicycling policy and safety.

Rich will bring back key insights and inspiration to share with our members and partners, helping strengthen our advocacy efforts across Florida. Stay tuned for updates on what we learn and how you can take action to support a more bike-friendly future!