Many of the women who ride in this great event do so for several reasons. Some are personal, some are to support their fellow females, and some women ride just because it is fun. For this month's letter I wanted to share with you some excerpts from the female riders themselves on why they Cycle the WAVE. The following stories were taken from video interviews made by Frank at the end of the 2011 ride.

            Stephanie rode with her 12-year-old daughter. During the ride she got a chance to see smiling faces and had the opportunity to inform her daughter about domestic violence. It is important to inform young girls about this issue and Stephanie thought that her daughter was at the appropriate age.

            Stacey said that Cycle the WAVE is one of the best supported rides she has been on, all 62 miles of it. She enthusiastically said that she will definitely be back this upcoming year.

            Cathy an outreach specialist for the Issaquah REI got three flat tires during her ride. Every time this happened volunteers of men came to help save the day by patching the holes in her tires. Despite this set back, Cathy enjoyed riding with such a large group of wonderful ladies and she can't wait for this year's event either.

            Annalise rode this year with her mom. Both women are involved with Cycle the WAVE to support a family member who is a survivor. Annalise and her mother both enjoyed the event.

            Jamie rode for the first time in 2011. She gives a big "thank you" to the WAVE for giving her the opportunity to participate in such a great event.   Jamie also mentioned that she enjoyed seeing the attractive firemen throughout the event. Seeing them as well as all of the volunteers and support kept her going until the end.

Hopefully these stories will spark excitement about this year's event in each and every one of you. Participating in Cycle the WAVE by riding or volunteering your time is a great way to bring awareness to your life and the people in your life about domestic violence.  This non-profit raises money that goes directly to

supporting the cause and to other groups that help to end domestic violence throughout Washington state. Be a part of the solution and join in on the ride in any way that you can. And to all of the fabulous ladies and gentlemen out there, it is time to get your WAVE on.