Dear Editor,

The cooperation of a community is less common these days and we still have it! Many entities took part in the success of our 2nd Annual Verna Mize Triathlon recently and they are certainly worthy of recognition.

The law enforcement presence in the water, on the trails and streets were comforting to racers and organizers. We had the city Police, Sheriff’s department and Coast Guard all very visible and available in the event we needed them.

The shops in town were generous again; Chickadee’s, Surplus Outlet, Victoria’s Kitchen, and Black Ice Comics were eager to contribute. Otter River Outfitters provided our t-shirts and Braden Cundiff designed our website. Angela Luskin was so kind to let us use the Canal Run signs and banners once again this year and the impact is vital to the safety of all involved.

The volunteers were amazing! Their promptness, adaptability and insight will always be appreciated.

A big thanks to the many individuals that disseminated our information. Danielle, Faye and Joel at MTU; K-Bear, WOLV and WMPL radio stations; TV6 and our Daily Mining Gazette were all wonderfully active in their coverage of the VMT and we are immensely grateful.

Congratulations to all the triathletes that took part this year. The conditions were absolutely perfect for the race! We’re still the luckiest people in the world to be able to enjoy what nature provides and to have the support of an entire community to make it happen.

Thank you,

Verna Mize Committee