Melissa Kelly Ortega: Cyclists need a place to stay

I would like to thank all the gracious folks who have opened their homes for the participants of the 2013 MERCO Cycling Classic. This is the 20th year of this exciting event put on by Merced's own Doug Fluetsch with help from many dedicated volunteers.

This year, cycling teams such as CashCall, Mikes' Bikes and Team Bicycles Plus/Sierra Nevada are already signed up with hosts, but more than 20 cyclists are still in need of a place to stay.

Last year, cyclists reported their stay in Merced to be delightful and they looked forward to returning and many stayed in touch with their hosts throughout the year.

Cyclists don't need much. Their basic needs include a place to sleep, shower, wash their clothes, secure their bikes and store their food.

Approximately 70 cyclists have found a place to stay thanks to our friends in Merced, Atwater and Snelling, but we are currently in need of at least 24 additional spots. If anyone can spare the space, we would love to connect you with some amazing cyclists during this year's MERCO Cycling Classic. Call me at (209) 756-3090 for more information. Thank you so much!

MELISSA KELLY ORTEGA

Merced