To the Editor:
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the riders and volunteers who participated in the 13th annual Sourland Spectacular cycling event held on September 7. Your enthusiasm and support made this year’s event a resounding success and crucial to our mission.
The Sourland Spectacular is more than just a bike ride; it is a community effort to support the Sourland Conservancy’s vital work in forest restoration. This year, we were thrilled to offer new opportunities for friends and family to back their favorite riders. With the prospect of earning a free cycling jersey for securing $200 in sponsorship donations and the exciting competition for the top fundraiser, participants went above and beyond in their efforts.
Congratulations to Jeff Gay, the event’s top fundraiser, who won our prize basket filled with wonderful donated items from several individuals and local businesses including Unionville Vineyards, Sourlands Cycles, Dandelion Wishes, Aunt Chubby’s Luncheonette, Boro Bean, Lo Ré Pasta Shop, Sourland Mountain Spirits, and Ottoburger.
We are especially grateful to those who sponsored the riders. Donations and event proceeds helped us raise significant funds to combat the recent loss of over one million trees due to the invasive emerald ash borer. Your contributions are directly supporting our forest restoration projects, which have already seen nearly 50,000 trees planted since 2020.
Laurie Cleveland, our Executive Director, aptly highlighted the importance of this work: “Millions of people and animals rely on the forest to filter air and drinking water, provide critical habitat for threatened and endangered species, prevent flooding, sequester carbon, and more. The work we’re doing today will help leave a healthy legacy for future generations.”
To our incredible volunteers, thank you for your time and dedication. Your efforts helped ensure the smooth running of the event, and your commitment to our cause is deeply appreciated. Your support not only made the event enjoyable but also instrumental in furthering our mission.
To everyone who participated, whether by riding, volunteering, or supporting the riders, we thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment. Your involvement is making a real difference in preserving the Sourland Mountain region’s natural beauty and ecological health.
We look forward to continuing this important work and hope to see you all at next year’s event!
Warmest regards,
Joanna Fiori and James Andrews
Sourland Spectacular event Co-chairs
