July 30, 2008 > San Leandro moves towards a better future San Leandro moves towards a better future By Idorenyin Uto-Uko The city of San Leandro has found a great way to deal with growing gas prices: biking. The Cherry City Cyclists (CCC) encourages all East Bay residents to get out and bike this summer. Founded in 1972 in San Leandro with five members, the organization has grown to nearly 100 members and is actively involved in community events and activities. There are four events that the organization focuses on throughout the year: Show N' Go: Bikers meet at Bay Fair Mall in San Leandro. Rides from the mall are usually 25-30 miles. The group does not go faster than the slowest rider. Cyclists meet on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Membership is not required to participate. "This is great way for new riders to come out and meet current members," said CCC spokesperson, Phil Kent; Best of the Bay: This event generally takes place the second week of June. There are three different levels of ridership during the event - 35, 62 and 100 miles. The 100-mile trek is affectionately labeled "The Century Ride"; Cherry Festival: During this annual event held in June, the CCC performs various bike maintenance clinics for festival-goers; and Sonoma County Century Weekend: This event takes place the weekend of July 19-20. Members bike 100 miles across Sonoma County. The CCC is also very involved in other Bay Area events. Annual membership for individuals seeking to join the group is $24; $36 for families. There are rides on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 a.m. for early birds. "Many of our members are retired and enjoy waking up early to do something fun in general," commented Kent. The CCC is part of the East Bay Bicycle Coalition. Monthly meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the San Leandro Library, 300 Estubillo Ave. For more information about the Cherry City Cyclists, contact Phil Kent at 510-352-7959 or www.cherrycitycyclists.org.