Report Card Run

First Annual Ride for Grade
On Saturday, May 12th, the smoke hung in the warm humid air while sounds of roaring and shooting flames caused people to take notice, some in fear. No, it wasn't the wildfires threatening our community. It was Dr. Margaret Smith, Supt. of Schools, and her husband Bill emerging from the fog and haze, leading a pack of 65 enthusiastic bikers to travel the roads and visit five Volusia County Schools. After leaving Mainland High School, with a fanfare and introduction from FUTURES president John Ferguson, the group visited Creekside Middle School in Port Orange. From there our school leader took the band of bikers to New Smyrna Beach High School. After viewing the new facility, Samsula Elementary welcomed the two wheelers to their 1912 establishment. Finally, the hot tired group came to rest (literally) at the Advanced Technology Center where they were given lunch, tours and prizes. At each school the participants rolled a die for a letter grade to be written on their report card. At their destination the report cards were tallied and the one with the highest GPA won dinner for two at LPGA's Knickers Restaurant, worth $75. Door prizes were given to the less scholarly. Our first effort for this bike event seemed to be quite successful, with most asking about next year's plans. Well, the plans are in the works. Thanks to those who participated, our sponsors, prize donors, and especially Dr. Margaret Smith for agreeing to this wild idea and helping to promote it. And our profound thanks to the schools, principals, staff, and volunteers for their enthusiastic welcome to the bikers. It was much appreciated by all.