We recently caught up with Marlene at Firecreek Coffer in the VOC.

Can you please tell us a little about your background?

I lived in California most of my life. I went to San Jose State University and graduated with a BS in Business, Accounting concentration. Passed the CPA exam in 1987 and worked for various accounting firms and high tech companies. My last job was working for Google in their tax department where I headed up their sales, use and property tax department.

I love mountain biking and have been doing that for 6 years. Prior to that, I danced salsa with a top dance company in San Francisco. I also enjoy surfing, hiking, scuba diving, snowboarding, skiing and doing my artwork.

I am passionate about the environment and our wildlife here. Getting involved in our community (VOC) is important to me.

What brought you to the Verde Valley?

Retirement! And an escape from the crowds of California. My parents live in Tucson and I wanted to be closer to them. Tucson is too hot in the summer but Sedona provides cooler temperatures and of course, world class mountain biking. I made a visit to Sedona in the spring of 2017 and immediately fell in love with the red rocks. I was hooked!

How many bikes do you own and what brand/model are they?

I currently own 2 mountain bikes, both are the Santa Cruz brand, Superlight and Bronson. I purchased the Bronson at the Santa Cruz factory store when I lived in California. I felt like a kid in a candy shop ...so many awesome bikes!

Where’s your favorite place(s) to ride?

Besides Sedona, I do miss the coast of California and the Wilder Ranch trails. Riding along the coastline cliffs is amazing. I also miss the redwoods especially the El Corte Madera trails. Great trails, lots of shade for the summer and some soul crushing climbs!

Where’s the strangest place you have ridden?

In a gravel pit at the Baylands in California. The pit had soft dirt and was a great place to learn mountain biking skills.

What are your VVCC Director roles?

I currently chair the Nomination and Marketing/Fundraising committees.

If you had a magic wand, what would you change about the riding scene in Sedona?

I would like to see more beginner trails that would be suitable for people who are just learning how to mountain bike.

What’s going to be happening with this year’s VVCC Board Director elections?

Elections are conducted in accordance with our bylaws and club rules by the nomination committee of which I currently chair. We have 4 candidates up for re-election for this year’s Board elections. There are no open Board positions this year.

All 4 incumbents are believed to be the best for the organization. Leadership ability, good judgment, commitment to organization, ability to work with others and board experience are important qualities that each incumbent has demonstrated.