Gears for Good Thanks

To the Editor,

On behalf of the Manchester-Essex Rotary Club, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped bring our second annual Gears for Good community bike event to life on September 20 at Masconomo Park.

With more than 50 riders and 30 volunteers, the morning brought together families, neighbors and local businesses for cycling, friendship and service.  From the youngest children learning bike skills at the Bike Rodeo to riders enjoying our trail and road routes, participants helped raise funds for Rotary’s service projects throughout Cape Ann.  Ages ranged from three to 83!

We are grateful to our sponsors: BankGloucester, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Beacon Bank and the YMCA, for their generous support.  Thank you also to Bravo by the Sea, Captain Dusty’s, Coffee by the Sea, Vine Street Cider Donuts and Operation Bounce for the food, refreshments, rider treats and family fun that made the day special.

Our community partners were essential to making the event welcoming and successful. We thank Riverside Cycle; the YMCA of the North Shore, including the Ipswich, Cape Ann and Beverly Ys; MassBike; Massachusetts Safe Routes to School; and the Manchester Bike & Pedestrian Committee for their enthusiasm, expertise and support.

A special thank-you goes to the Manchester Police Department, which truly rolled out the red carpet for our riders.  Officers provided a police escort from Masconomo all the way up Pine Street to the entrance of the Gordon College trails, helping our families and riders reach the trails safely and confidently.  That extra care and generous support made a meaningful difference in the experience of the day, and we are deeply grateful.

We also appreciate Manchester’s Parks & Recreation Department and Select Board, along with Manchester and Essex public safety officials and MassDOT, for helping us coordinate a safe event. 

Thank you to the Manchester Essex Interact Club, Cub Scouts and North Shore PMC Kids Ride community for their volunteer and outreach support, and to The Cricket for helping share the event with our neighbors.

Finally, thank you to our dedicated Rotary members, planning committee, community volunteers and every rider who joined us.  Your time, energy and generosity made Gears for Good possible and helped turn a community gathering into support for local needs.

Thank you for putting the “good” in Gears for Good.  We look forward to riding together again next year!

With gratitude,

Jen Doane and Ken Riehl
Gears for Good Co-Chairs
Manchester-Essex Rotary Club