Hi folks.

Although a number of people RSVP'd that they were planning to go on our Ventura outing October 5-8, only two teams have actually reserved rooms, and Tony and I are one of them.

This is a not-so-subtle reminder to call the Country Inn Ventura and make your reservation ASAP if you're planning to go. They're only going to hold the block another month, and I'm about to invite the MASCOTS, so if you want to go and enjoy some of the best cycling the state has to offer, you need to move on it. (You don't have to stay all three nights.)

We'll revisit the truck/Amtrak option after we see how many people are actually going.

To recap the specifics:

Reservations are at the Country Inn and Suites at 298 Chestnut Street: 805-653-1434. When you call, ask for a room from the "Tandem" block. That is our group code in the computer and will get you the discounted rate. Rates are $99 plus 10% tax for Friday and Saturday, and $89 plus tax for Sunday, if you want to stay all three nights, or a total of $315.70 per room (though you don't have to stay all three nights). The price includes a full cooked breakfast every morning and a happy hour every evening. The rooms are large and include a microwave and refrigerator in addition to the usual amenities.

The Country Inn is within easy walking distance of all the restaurants in downtown Ventura, as well as Real Cheap Sports, the Patagonia outlet, and lots of antique stores if you feel like shopping. It's also, fortuitously, about two and a half blocks from the train station, according to the reservation agent I dealt with. The hotel will only hold our block until Friday, September 14, so if you'd like to go, call now and then e-mail me to let me know you'll be joining us and let me know if you're interested in the truck/Amtrak option.

Hope a bunch of you can come!

Sarah