PALM XXIX

Welcome to PALM

Hello friends and fellow cyclists!

Undoubtedly by now you have had the opportunity to hear the Michigan Tourism radio and television ads urging Michigan residents and out of state travelers to experience "pure Michigan"! There is no better way to experience pure Michigan than on the seat of a bicycle touring our great state. When crossing Michigan by bicycle you will experience firsthand the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, pristine lakes and rivers, rolling hills and farmlands, small towns and quaint villages.

In 2009, PALM once again filled faster than ever before: this time February 5th. Every year we point out that the deadline is April 1st OR the 700th rider, whichever comes first. Sorry to all those who didn't get their applications in on time!

The 2010 applications will be mailed out near the middle of January. If you are planning to ride the 29th PALM, you must be on the mailing list and get your application in early. To receive an application by 1st class mail, please email us your name and address and be added to our mailing list.

In 2010, we are doing a mid-southern route: South Haven on Lake Michigan to the Erie Metro Park near Gibraltar on Lake Erie. More details about the route can be seen on our homepage.

This will be my first year as Ride Chairman although I have been on staff for 10 years and 2010 will mark my 12th bicycle trip across Michigan on PALM! I am looking forward to meeting many of you this year as well as your support as I learn this new position.

PALM usually has a high rate of return riders but we love welcoming new riders each year. In fact, nearly 1/3 of our riders are new to PALM every year! PALM is a family ride, often with two or three generations of the same family riding together. Our riders range in age from young children in buggers or tag-alongs, to 8 year olds riding their own bikes, to folks in their 90's! All abilities of riders are welcome on PALM and we have longer optional routes for more enthusiastic cyclists who want more miles! Come see why PALM is "Michigan's premier Family oriented Bicycle Tour since 1982"!

I'm looking forward to seeing you all pedaling across Lower Michigan in June, 2010. Let's make every mile a memory!

Kevin M Novess Sr
2010 PALM Chair