On Tuesday, Dec. 4 Gene Connor's odometer hit 2,000 as he cycled to work at Syosset High School. That milestone marked the successful completion of his pledge to ride 2,000 commuting miles to raise funds for the American Cancer Society, and Gene's students marked the event with a surprise celebration as he walked into school.

"I plan to continue cycling for Connor's Army," he said, "even though I've reached my goal. My true goal won't be reached until we've won the war against cancer."

After three of his sisters and his mother were diagnosed with different types of cancer in a two-year period, Gene began Connor's Army to raise funds for the American Cancer Society's programs of research and support. Even his 8-year-old daughter Sarah helped by starting Connor's Army Junior and pledging to cycle 50 miles on her new two-wheeler. Father and daughter plan to complete their mileage and reach their monetary goals - $10,000 for Dad and $500 for Sarah - by the end of the year.

On January 1, 2008 he'll be joined by cyclists from all over Long Island as he celebrates the success of his 2007 Connor's Army campaign with a Victory Ride from his home in Northport, NY, to his work in Syosset and back again - a 25-mile victory lap. The Victory Ride is another fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, and emphasizes Gene's commitment to continue the fight against the disease that affects so many peoples' lives.

The ride begins at 10 a.m. at Saint Philip Neri Church (344 Main Street, Northport) and heads to Syosset High School, where a hot beverage break is being sponsored by the parents of one of his students. Then it's back to Saint Philip's for a Victory Party with participants, sponsors and representatives of the American Cancer Society.

"I know it may be cold," said Connor "but I figure if the Polar Bear Club can swim on New Year's Day, we can certainly cycle, especially for such a good cause."

Cyclists can join the Long Island Victory Ride with Gene, set up a 25-mile course in their own home town, or "Ride in Spirit" by registering even if they can't ride. The $25 registration fee goes directly to the American Cancer Society.

Individuals or companies can give additional support by sponsoring a mile for $50, donating goods or services for the ride or the Victory Party, or by volunteering at either the Northport or Syosset location.

Connor has been supported in his ambitious mission by wonderful sponsors from all over the country. From Long Island there are Alan Rosenberg of Coinland (www.Coinland.com), Chuck Adams of Adams Cyclery (www.AdamsCyclery.com), Dave Loudon of Loudon's Minuteman Press (www.loudonmmp.com), Howard Feinstein of Dunkin' Donuts, and Rich Margolius (one of his former students) of Richcorp Computer Services (www.RichcorpCS.com). From farther afield come Laura Berman Fortgang of Now What (www.NowWhatCoaching.com) in New Jersey, Nelson Quimby of Elso Graphics (www.elsographics.com) in New Hampshire, Bicycling Magazine (www.bicycling.com) in Pennsylvania, and Gregory Burke of Solid Printwear (www.SolidPrintwear.com) in North Carolina. Most of his sponsors have personal experiences that have inspired them to join with Connor's Army in the war against cancer.

Those interested in enlisting in Connor's Army or Connor's Army Junior by making a pledge, joining the Victory Ride, or becoming a sponsor can log on to the campaign's website at www.ConnorsArmy.org or call 631-261-1598. Pledges and registration fees can also be sent to PO Box 196, Northport, NY 11768, and all checks should be made payable to the American Cancer Society.