Greetings My Fellow Big Crankers'

This message is a message of celebration. A celebration of a great
spirit, a great friend, a great leader.

Quote:
"Some people come into our lives
and leave footprints on our hearts
and we are never ever the same".
-- Flavia Weedn

It is with both sadness and happiness that the Board of Directors
will be saying goodbye to our very own Mr. David Ridgeway. David,
for very positive and personal reasons, has decided to step down from
the Board of Directors of Big Crank Cycling. He is doing so for all
of the right reasons and while the Board is selfish and does not want
him to go, we fully appreciate and respect the reasons for which
David has made this decision.

It is David's desire to continue to be a part of Big Crank Cycling in
a social capacity and we could not be happier about that. In fact,
you can see him this Sunday at 10am at Crankcicles in Forest Park!!

David was instrumental in the creation of Big Crank cycling. In
fact, I remember the very day that David got involved in cycling in
general (before Big Crank even existed). It was a $75.00 bike from
Aldi's so that he could ride around Tower Grove Park once in awhile.
I remember our phone conversation and how much excitement he had in
his voice. David, could you have ever imagined what that $75.00 bike
would have turned into? It is both astounding and wonderful!

The creation of Big Crank Cycling was a labor of love for David as
well as Jay Hulsey and myself and when I think back on all of the
sacrifices, talent and energy that David gave to the club for almost
5 years, I can't even begin to find the right words to thank him for
all of the work, the time he gave us, as well as the laughs and
positive energy that seem to radiate from him at all times. Most
importantly, I thank him for his friendship which means the most!!

To quote Dr. Seuss- "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it
happened!"

Some of the accomplishments ( aside from the laughs, smiles and trail
related memories ) that David can take great pride in, include almost
$50,000 given to charities through bike rides and Big Crank Blend
Coffee sales, 3 custom club jerseys, custom club t-shirts, countless
advertising campaigns, approximately 400 rides with and/for the club
in the last few years, pride fest and parades, picnics, annual
banquets, and many other efforts that David gave his time and talent
to.

David, Claire and I will never be able to replace your talent and
spirit and we THANK YOU for all that you have done for Big Crank
Cycling.

Claire and I will carry the torch onward and upward and make you
proud.

To quote –Dale Evans
"Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Some trails are happy
ones, Others are blue. It's the way you ride the trail that counts,
Here's a happy one for you".

Peace and love my friend and I will see you at Crankcicles on Sunday!

Don A. Griffith
President,
Big Crank Cycling