Celebrating the BBC and Those Who Give Back

A good time was had by all one hundred plus cyclists who attended the Baltimore Bicycling Club’s Annual End of Year Celebration on November 9, 2024 at Oregon Ridge. Some members started the day with a bike ride to Hampstead on a beautiful sunny day.  A delicious lunch was catered by Andy Nelson’s. The tasty menu of barbecue, brisket, veggie burgers, and many sides was sufficient to satisfy even the hungriest cyclist.

Nabil Ali, club president, presided over the annual business meeting and election of next year’s Board officers via a voice vote. They include: Nabil Ali, president; Adriana Pukalski, vice-president; Steve Zeldin, secretary; Dave Schallich, treasurer; Frank Blatt, Gloria Epstein, Rich Burns, Marge Ewertz, members at large; Pat Lapensee, past president.

We also heard informative reports from the following current officers: Steve Zeldin, secretary; Dave Schallich, treasurer; Eugene Bayer, membership; Nigel Samaroo, advocacy; Adriana Pukalski, instructional series.

Special awards were presented to the following BBC members: John and Jane Cole, Hall of Fame; Barbara Park Award, Adriana Pukalski; Wayne Rodgers Award, John McCauley.  Congratulations to these outstanding members for their service to the club.

Also listed in the program were the number of rides led by members including such super ride leaders as:  Eugene Bayer, 101 rides; Steve Zeldin, 78 rides; Gary Kelly, 52 rides; Mark Tabb, 48 rides; Gloria Epstein, 47 rides; Renee Faison, 32 rides, Gene Young, 31 rides; John McCauley, 30 rides and Greg Fromme, 26 rides. A very big thank you to all ride leaders—you are the engine that drives the Baltimore Bicycling Club!!

President Nabil Ali ended with a surprise award—The Human Dynamo Award—to Road Captain, Gloria Epstein, who coordinated this wonderful event and the BBC Opener—among the many things she gives back to the BBC each and every year [Gloria received a standing ovation for her recognition]. Gloria works tirelessly behind the scenes giving her all to make the bike club the best it can be. Thanks Gloria!

Two beautiful and delicious sheet cakes from Graul’s Market topped off the meal. It was a very special Saturday afternoon with much laughter and goodwill among cycling friends, new and old. Having been to every Annual Awards Celebration since 1988, I can indeed say this one ranks among the very best!  Get out there and ride and volunteer—see you next year.

Michael Reinsel

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