The Charles River Wheelers Board met on July 13th to approve key policies, honor longtime volunteers, and advance several member-focused initiatives.

Financial Growth and Investment Strategy

CRW's financial position continues to strengthen. The Board approved moving up to $35,000 from the money market account into investments, optimizing returns on club assets. Directors also formally appointed the Investment Committee with Amy Juodawlkis, Eliott Morra, and Larry Kernan to oversee long-term financial planning.

New Partnership Framework Approved

After months of development, the Board unanimously approved CRW's comprehensive Partnership Agreement policy. This framework will guide future collaborations with cycling businesses and organizations, ensuring all partnerships provide clear member benefits while maintaining the club's integrity.

A proposed exclusive agreement with Conte's Bike Shop was tabled until 2026 to allow for further refinement of terms that better serve member interests.

Honoring Service and Leadership

The Board recognized Butch Pemstein's years of dedicated service as General Counsel with the prestigious Ralph Galen Service Award. As Butch transitions from this role, the club is seeking a new VP of Legal Affairs from the membership.

Progress continues on the Eli Post Memorial Bench project, with letters of support secured and the formal application being submitted to Chelmsford's Monuments and Memorials committee.

Riding Season in Full Swing

Summer programming is thriving with the return of the popular Norwellian Ride series. Plans are underway for paceline training sessions in August and September, with potential partnerships with Pedal Power in Acton for both training and ride starting locations.

Century Event Enhancements

The Climb to the Clouds Century will feature WheelWorks providing professional support services. To improve the experience at all century events, the Board approved purchasing five professional bike stands for registration and maintenance areas.

Fall Planning Begins

The Board outlined preparations for fall activities, including:

• Board Elections: Nomination procedures will be detailed in the August WheelPeople
• Annual Meeting planning
• Cranberry Century preparations
• Grant program review

Communications Update

The club continues seeking a new WheelPeople editor to help manage our growing communications needs. Members interested in this volunteer opportunity are encouraged to contact the Board.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for September 7th, focusing on annual meeting preparations and fall programming.