We had done a lot on the faith that we were doing something positive for the community. But we did it without knowing if anyone would actually show up.

We get so discouraged with the negative, so it's nice to hear there are people (in Iraq) who are thankful for our presence there. Especially good was the interaction he shared as a Christian with some of the Muslims and some of the biblical sites he saw. Seeing a picture of him with his arm around a Muslim, you have to remember there's a war going on.

It's great in that people enjoy (the concerts) enough to support the music and have a good time. But it's not been easy finding the funding. If it weren't for a few generous people who stepped up every month, we couldn't have kept it going.

We're certainly pleased to create a positive economic impact for our wonderful community. But we're more delighted to introduce young people to the wonderful sport of cycling.

It's become much more a part of the community now. The positive comments from outsiders have helped the community embrace it even more.

From my standpoint this is a really healthy, positive, progressive thing that is happening in the community.