From the Area Director By Steven Smith NEAD Issue 2, 2004
Upcoming Activities: The 2004 Northeast Regional Spring Fling Rally is only days away. I am so looking forward to the end of winter and a great riding season, and this is the event to kick it off. Contact AAD & rally host Tony Shelver for information. See ya there. Everything is now set for a Northeast Area Fall Rally; this year in Stowe, VT. This event will be the culmination of efforts of a number of people in the New England region. There are more details elsewhere in this issue.
Northeast Area News
Staff Changes: A change of AADs has occurred in Northeastern Ontario... sort of. Rudi & Patty Verspoor have taken turns being the AAD for this region longer than I have been the AD. For 2004 it is Rudi’s turn. Thanks Rudi. I’m not sure if it was that he just missed us or that the southerners could not put up with him and sent him packing back to Connecticut; (Ex-AAD) Brad May is back in town and eating plenty of crow. We invite all members to give him a hard time about it at every possible chance. Memories - Recently I’ve been thinking a lot about one of the first COG members I had contact with - It was the summer I purchased my Concours and became a member myself. I was looking to purchase a used OEM backrest and I located a member in New Jersey (via the COG listserv) who was selling one. We arrived on a price and then had to decide on the best delivery. In our email exchange he said he was willing to meet at a mid-way point (between NJ & CT) to make the exchange. It seemed like a good enough reason for a ride and I’d save a few bucks on shipping, so why not? A gas station parking lot off the highway in Middletown, NY was the designated site. On the ride out there I felt a bit nervous… all the possible “what if” questions raced through my mind. When I arrived there was a wineberry Connie sitting off to the side of the lot with no rider in sight. I pulled up near it, dismounted and began to take my gear off. This guy came walking over from the convenience store with a cup of coffee and said “Hey, I’m Bruce…” We chatted a bit and then he proceeded to pull the backrest out of his newly acquired Givi top box, along with some tools and proceeded to mount it on my bike. I got a quick indoctrination into the world of COG that day. Bruce Slavinski & I have been friends since. On March 2, 2004, Bruce died after a two-year battle with mesothelioma, a fatal lung cancer caused by his exposure to asbestos while serving in the United States Navy during 1959-60. Bruce was 61, but you would not know it by the way he acted. He believed in living each day to the fullest. People were charmed by Bruce's gift of gab and the passion he exuded for life and his sports. And this did not diminish after the cancer was detected and being treated. He still participated in all the COG northeast regional rallies the past 2 years – the last being the fall rally in Lake George. Bruce is survived by his wife of 15 years, Deborah, two daughters, five grandchildren, six brothers, six sisters, thirteen nieces and nephews, two dogs, and many friends. My last memory of Bruce was from about a month before his death. John Purdy & I visited with him at his home. We spent the day talking motorcycles and other stuff. When we left and drove past the front of his house, we bore witness to a full moon he had pressed up against the front glass door. The sight of a 60-year-old butt is soon not forgotten. That’s the way he was. I know he is out ripping up roads all the time now – perfectly smooth pavement and twisties that go on forever. Godspeed Bruce, your COG family will miss you. Bruce's wish was cremation and no public memorial service. John Purdy is in the midst of planning a memorial ride so that his many friends can gather and remember Bruce. We are just waiting for when the time is right for his wife. We are holding these dates open for the ride: Saturday, June 5, 2004 (rain date: Sunday, June 6) We were hoping to ride part of a route that Bruce put together last year for the spring rally. The ride will begin and end in the vicinity of Bruce’s home in Milford, NJ. At the ride we will accept donations in any amount, to make a gift to MARF, Mesothelioma Applied Research Fund, in Bruce’s memory. We hope to have things firmed up in May. If you are interested in attending and would like to be notified of the details, please send an email to me to have your contact info added to our distribution list (nead@concours.org). If you do not have email, then please call John at 203-720-2286.
Shows: In early April Richard de Jong spearheaded an effort to staff a COG booth at a local Ontario motorcycle show. Richard said “We had lots of interest in the bikes and the club. We met a number of Concours owners that knew nothing of the club and are interested in joining. The enthusiasm of both the patrons and the team we had manning the booth was terrific!” Thanks Richard. Until next time, ride safe -
Steve
Inside this issue: Floodcity Update, Contact Info, Discount Info
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CT Report, Hudson Valley Report, Western PA Report
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MA Report, MD/Southern PA Report
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Northeast Ride Schedule
5
Sadie Hawkins Social
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Mid-Atlantic Crabcakes Ride, Southern Wrench Fest
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New Members, Fall Rally Info
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A view of the COG booth at an Ontario show
Returned Check Fee - Anne Simone, COG Treasurer COG will now charge a $20 returned check fee to recover the fee charged by the bank. After 8 years of maybe one returned check per year, I have gotten 3 already this year - not a good omen.
Flood City Rally Update - by Jason Kaplitz Hello fellow Coggers, I hope that by the time you read this spring has arrived in your little corner of the world. I’m writing this in the middle of March, and unfortunately, it’s still snowing in the Floodcity! I just wanted to thank everyone that has “booked their room” and “sent in those registrations” for the upcoming Floodcity National Rally. And to remind those that haven’t to please do so ASAP! We have an exciting week of activities planned for everyone with an action packed schedule coming together! The rally committee has been very busy! Hopefully you’ve had a chance to look at the website www.concours.org/2004 and take advantage of all the tools we’ve provided to plan a great vacation in Johnstown.
Northeast Area Officers Area Director Steven Smith, #3184 Naugatuck, CT 203-720-7575 nead@concours.org Webmaster open position contact the AD is interested Editor Louis Caplan, #2894 Fairfax, VA 703-978-9844 nighthawk700@yahoo.com
Assistant Area Directors New Hampshire Tony Shelver, #2647
Our opening reception on Tuesday should be a great time. We’ve got Moultonborough, NH live entertainment scheduled, and we’ve invited the mayor and hope 603.520.0324 Tony.Shelver@ctp.com to have many area attractions represented. We’ll be set up “trade show” style so you’ll be able to visit with representatives from the Massachusetts various attractions, pick up literature, and learn more about the stops Kevin Martin, #145 we have planned for you. We also have a couple of neat games Dracut, MA planned to give everyone a chance to meet both old and new friends. 978-459-6275 If you have anything that you might want to exchange (pins, business cog145@sprintmail.com cards, info on other events etc.) bring it along! The clock is counting down. Hopefully you’ve got the Connie tuned, the family packed, and are ready to enjoy the COG Floodcity National. See you in Johnstown! Jason, COG #62 Floodcity National
Connecticut Jonathan Coler, #5379 Rocky Hill, CT 860-257-4009 JonColer@yahoo.com NY Hudson Valley Mike Flynn, #4493 Bedford Hills, NY 914-244-3537 Keltwolf@optonline.net
Discounts for COG members
Metro NY/NJ Jim Clark, #2113 Valley Stream, NY 516-872-3694 Pennsylvania - Western Joe Cyprych, Jr., #4665 McDonald, PA 724-796-1401 Cyprych@hky.com DelMarVa & Philly burbs (PA/NJ) Bob Chappell, #1283 Claymont, DE 302-791-0582 cog1283@comcast.net Maryland Russell Fleming, #599 Hampstead, MD 410-374-9687 Fleming@qis.net Mid-Atlantic States Patrick Sprague, #1887 Luray, VA 540-743-4874 (home) 540- 743-5132 (work) 540-743-3229 (fax) PSprague@shentel.net Northeast Ontario, Canada Rudi Verspoor, #6173 Ottawa, ONT 613-692-9356 RudiVerspoor@rogers.com Atlantic Maritimes, Canada Ian Rennie, #5525 Saint John, NB 506-635-2124 IanRennie@mac.com
We would like to pass on information from regarding three vendor discounts available to COG members that we are aware of. If you know of others, please send them in... Morgan Carbtune (www.carbtune.com) - They are offering a special for US buyers only, due to the weak US dollar. Their business is based in the UK so all prices are in £ sterling or British pounds. The special price of £58 is the total cost for the Carbtune and Toolpouch delivered airmail to your postal address in the USA. This is very good value and as soon as the $US gets back up again we will be removing the offer. For COG members we will keep this offer open until the end of August 2004. It's a good deal now, but when the US$ strengthens this will be a very good deal. Order online at their website. RoadRUNNER Magazine (www.RRmotorcycling.com) - A terrific magazine dedicated to motorcycle touring They have recognized COG for about a year now and even provided us with our own club discount code: CORCR19 The pricing as a club partner is: $19/1-yr; $35/2-yrs; $44/3-yrs. Just log on, click subscribe, enter code number and follow through. (Continued on page 6) Page 2
Northeast Area News Newsletter Staff: Louis Caplan, Steven Smith The Northeast Area News is a publication for Northeast Area members of the Concours Owners Group. Submissions are welcomed and members are encouraged to share information about a wide variety of topics on motorcycling. The preferred method is via e-mail, so the editor doesn’t have to do a lot of typing, but any type of legible submission will be gladly accepted. Digital images are welcome, but please do not embed them in the document. Submissions may be edited to
best fit available space. If you would like to have your material returned, please include a SASE. Please send submissions to:
Steven Smith 39 Alison Ave Naugatuck, CT 06770-3566 nead@concours.org Many of the opinions stated in this publication may make no sense to those sound of mind and may just be conveniently ignored. If you use any of the information in this rag to incur damage to yourself, your motor or any innocent or not so innocent bystanders it is you own fault...you were warned! Copyright 2004 © Concours Owners Group
N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
Connecticut Area Update by Jonathan Coler AAD #5379 (3/10/04) There’s a lot in store for the 2004 riding season. Our Wednesday Night Ride In which meets the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM continues to be a fun and popular event. With the warm weather returning, riding will resume after the usual good dinner and good conversation shared by good friends. The Cromwell Diner has long been our meeting location, however, if anyone has a favorite eatery they would like to use for a Wednesday Night Ride In meeting place, please let me know. I will be happy to update the schedule and send out the usual posts. Wednesday, April 07, 2004, members met at Rein’s New York Style Deli in Vernon, CT for the monthly “Wednesday Night Ride In.” Nineteen people participated in this event including: Dave & Jill Dutton, Ken Knowles, Brad May, David Fazzuoli, Sherman Baumann, Michele Marze, Gerry & Cherry Barnett, Bob Wallace, Bobbie & Moe Lavoie, Pam & Larry Dunn, Ron Reimann, Ed Juselis, Jim Keane, Fred MacIntosh and myself. (Hope I got the names correct… I haven’t cleaned my reading glasses in months). The group assembled between 6:00 6:30 PM. We enjoyed the fine deli cuisine Rein’s is famous for, but even better, we shared in good conversation and camaraderie with friends & fellow riders. After dinner some participants enjoyed a brief 45minute ride before heading home. Pictures of the evening can be found at: photos.yahoo.com/ph/joncoler/
On April 18th, we will take a lazy Sunday ride to explore the wonders of Narragansett, RI. May 23rd, we will traverse an ambitious four-state route passing through CT, MA, VT & NH; an exciting ride following the weekend after the Spring Fling Rally. June 20th, prepare to commune with Mother Nature as we ride to the Berkshire Taconics, then hike about ½ mile to the majestic Bash Bish Falls. The hike will be followed by more fabulous riding of the winding twisties. About a week after the National Rally, July 25th we will ride between two well-known motorcyclist pit stops, starting at Marcus Dairy in Danbury and ending at The Vanilla Bean in Pomfret. I plan to have route sheets available for distribution for each ride. This schedule report leaves us just shy of the NE Fall Rally scheduled for September 9th – 12th. Please check the COG website for updates and additional information. I am hearing magical things will transpire at the Fall Rally… it will be a terrific event. The official website for the Fall Rally is www.concours.org/ne/FallFoliage/. There are still openings in the schedule should anyone like to volunteer to plan or lead/host a ride in the early fall and mid fall months. As with all events, all bikes and riders are welcome. For further information please refer to the schedule on the COG website at www.concours.org/schedule/ or contact me via e-mail at joncoler@yahoo.com or by phone at 860-257-4009. I look forward to sharing in a wonderful riding season. Best wishes and safe riding!
Hudson Valley - by Mike Flynn AAD #4493 Hello Hudson Valley COGgers. I hope that you all made it through the horrible winter no worse for the wear. The last two winters, but this one in particular, have been brutal for those that like to ride year round. Layering and heated gear makes this possible, and even enjoyable, but with the snow and resultant sand/salt combination, it's pretty dangerous out there on two wheels. With the holidays behind us, this is normally the time for me to have posted my ride schedule. Due to surgery to start of the New Year, my rides are still dateless. With the predicted bad winter and recovering from surgery, I had to winterize my bike for the first time since becoming a rider. Another reason for no scheduled rides is the amount of bike work my ride needs. With no garage to hide from the weather, I am forced to wait until warmer temps to get this work done. Hopefully two hard weekends of work should have me ready to roll.
Western Pennsylvania - by Joe Cyprych
As always, I welcome your suggestions for future events. Feel free to plan a ride or event, and we will get it listed for you (both here and on the COG website). Not ready to take on this task by yourself? Give me a shout and I'll help out. The entire NE staff has been very helpful to me when I was starting out, and I intend to continue the tradition. Well, that about wraps it up on my end. Keep your eyes open for additions to the ride list!
AAD #4665
Hello there fellow Coggers, just a few things to update you on. Although not a COG event, the Thunder in the Valley weekend (Johnstown, PA) will be June 25, 26, 27. Details are on the ride schedule. We will also be starting our meet, greet, and ride on Sundays in April (hopefully we will get rid of this snow). Details will also be posted on the ride schedule. With the suggestion from Russell Fleming, I pulled members addresses from the membership book of everyone who resides within a 100 mile radius of Pittsburgh, and put together an email ISSUE 2, 2004
The good news is that I do have most of my rides laid out. In keeping with tradition, most of them are a fun collection of back roads in the area. Most of these rides will be on a Sunday, although I do have a few "let's play hooky" weekday rides in mind. More good news on the ride front, my counterpart in CT, Jon Coler, has put together a multitude of day rides and meet-n-greets. These all sound fun, and I'm hoping to make at least a few.
group to notify the members on upcoming rides, get together, club news, etc. I have gotten quite a few bounced back addresses that are no longer any good. If you live in this area, or would like to just be in this group mailing, please call or email me with your correct email address. We had one day of half decent weather, and myself and new member Alan from Meyersdale got in some much needed riding. Looking forward to meeting and riding with you in 2004. As always, feel free to email or call me with any questions, or suggestions. Page 3
Massachusetts Report - by Kevin E. Martin AAD #145 Hi Gang - Happy 2004 Riding Season! Well as usual, I have a lot to say, but this time I’m told that I’ve got to keep it real short, cause I’ve been restricted on space to accommodate the new Newsletter format. I knew Steve and Louis would figure out a way to keep me quiet. What’s Happening in Massachusetts COGdom - I’ve revised and improved the COG - Massachusetts Home Page. I’ve tried to make it a little more user friendly to allow you to easily get up to date information on the Massachusetts Ride Schedules and links to other important information like special events and planned Rallies. The Home Page can now be used as a one stop shopping website for access to the COG Executive web pages and other important links. With the help of Dave Fazzuoli, we now have an improved Photo Gallery Page – check it out. If you have COG related pictures you’d like to post in the Gallery, contact either Dave or me. Also, I’ve added a new “Benefit Rides” page. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is sponsoring a Ride For Kids in August. Visit the new page for additional information. And we have a new Home Page URL for easier access: www.masscog.org (the old Home Page URL still works too) We held our first ever COG – Massachusetts Winter Social on March 6th at the Brewery Exchange, in Lowell. Because this was a spur of the moment idea of mine, there wasn’t time or money to send out mailing invitations to the entire Membership, so I used the email system to contact people. I apologize to those who don’t have or don’t provide me with email addresses to be able to get notices of any last minute events. As hard as I try to keep everyone informed, its not always practical to send out postal mailings for every small event.
Participation for the Social was better than anticipated with over 20 people attending, and three States being represented; MA, NH, & CT. Thanks to Steve Smith for contributing toward the appetizers, and I have a few pictures of the gang on my Photo Gallery web page. Attendees included; COG Officers Jon Coler, CT AAD; Tony Shelver, NH AAD; Dave Fazzuoli, Merchandise Coordinator. MA Members – Bill & Pat Hamilton; Bill Peloquin & Cynthia Randell; Andy & Eileen MacQueen; Bud & Pat King; Mike Evers & Barbara Papish. NH Members – Pete & Linda Stevenson; Tom O’neill & Vicki Robichard; Jim & Cheryl Hisni. CT Members – Ken & Robin Knowles and daughter Chelsea; Brad May; and finally yours truly – Kevin & Amy Martin. I hope everybody had a good time – Amy & I did ! Rides - Check the ride schedule database for last minute changes to the Northeast ride schedules. Speaking of rides, our Executive Director Carl Metler has asked us AADs to try to use the Liability Waiver forms on all rides and events. Starting in April, I’ll be asking ride attendees to oblige by the Club request of signing a waiver form prior to the start of any COG sponsored rides that I host. As a benefit to those who attend my rides and sign the liability waiver forms, I will be raffling off a custom embroidered COG shirt at the end of the season. My first ride was scheduled for April 3rd for a ride up along the NH coast. Check out the Home Page for details on future rides. Rallies - The Spring Fling in Jackson NH, May 13 – 16, and the COG National in Johnstown PA, July 13 -17 are just around the corner. Don’t delay, make your reservations now. That’s it for now, see you on the road !
Maryland & South Central Pennsylvania Happenings - by Russell Fleming AAD It has been a long winter for me. In February I had surgery on my right foot and that meant no riding until the first of April. Now it is time to take a ride. May 1-2 Slate Run for Buns and Wellsboro Gas Lights Ride Saturday we will meet at the Sheets store on the North side of Mechanicsburg off RT 11 and 114 by 8am. We will be leaving by 8:30am and heading North. We will travel through Little Buffalo State Park along the Susquehanna River. Riding the full length of Route 235 is one of my top 50 roads to ride. We will then go through some of Pa. Amish country. In Lock Haven we will travel on Route 120 and ride along the west branch of the Susquehanna River to Hyner. Then we go over the mountain to route 44 and then 414 to Slate Run store and tackle shop. This is one great place to get a nice sandwich for your money. The sandwich is a 6x6 on a fresh baked bun for the price of about $7.00. After a great sandwich we will head for Wellsboro for the night. This town is the last town in the USA that still has natural gas streetlights. Sunday we will have breakfast at Harland’s Family Restaurant, where the food is good and the wait staff likes to have fun with the patrons. After breakfast we will travel East on Route 6, which is ranked as 1 of 10 best roads east of the Mississippi River. A short time later we will be on route154, which is a slow paced road with Page 4
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lots of beautiful scenery and we will go through World’s End State Park. Eventually we will make our way to Shamokin and route 125 which some call Deal’s Gap of Pennsylvania. To end the ride we will travel through Pa. Dutch Country around Lancaster. Check the NE web sight for lodging in Wellsboro or contact me for more information Russell Fleming June 18-20 North and South Get together 7. Friday 18 people start to set up their tents for the weekend before we have a cookout. If you are not into camping then there is lodging about 10 to 12 miles away. Saturday 19 starts with breakfast in the driveway and bets are on that Russell will set the grill on fire. Breakfast consists of bacon, eggs, toast, orange juice and coffee and maybe some donuts. After breakfast there will be 1of 4 route sheets to pick from. All rides are self-guided. Hopefully you make it back by 6 p.m. for a bigger cookout and tales from your days ride. Sunday 20 Breakfast will be held in the driveway starting at around 8:30 Most people pack up the camping gear and help Russell and Martha clean up after a COG event. This is when Russell gets to have fun and lead anyone who wants to go on a tour. This is type of event that if you had a good time then you can contribute to the hat. For more information check the NE web schedule or me. N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
Northeast Ride Schedule - view the most current event info at www.concours.org/ne/schedules.htm ride at there own pace. There is a planned lunch stop at Slate Run Store and Tackle Shop and after a super sandwich and drink we’ll ride to (ON) S. Central Ontario Get-Together Monthly: Gather at Bumpers in Milton, ON on Wellsboro, PA to look at the lovely gas street the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm just lighting and for an evening of motorcycle to meet, exchange factual anecdotes, plan rides, stories. I can lead a ride to the PA Grand etc. From 401 S. on 25 through Milton to where Canyon or some fun roads that I know in the area. Lodging in Wellsboro is at your cost and 25 jigs left; keep going straight (Martin St.) arrangement; I will be staying at The Penn until you come to a T (Main St.) turn right. Bumpers is on the right about a block up. From Wells Lodge, Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 800.545.2446. Other Wellsboro area lodging: QEW or Hwy 5, take 25 north (aka Bronte) to Milton. Contact Dave Clancy 905-389-7681 or Sherwood Motel, 800.656.5802, Canyon Motel, 800.255.2718, The Penn Wells Hotel, clanfam@hwcn.org 570.724.2111. For more options checkout www.wellsboroweb.com On Sunday meet at (CT) Dinner Ride-In Harland’s Family Style Restaurant, 17 Pearls Monthly: We will gather for dinner and Street, Wellsboro PA at 8:00am to eat breakfast. conversation on the 1st Wednesday of each There is a planned route to bring you back to month at 6pm. Great way to meet and renew old south central PA. Contact: Russell Fleming friendships. Check the schedule to see if a new 410.374.9687 or fleming@qis.net place was selected as a change of pace. If not, our usual meeting place will be the Cromwell (MA) South Sugarloaf Mountain Diner, Cromwell, CT, I-91, exit 21 (RT372), 5/2/2004 - Meet at Dunkin Donuts on RT110, about 1/4 mile west on the left. Contact Jon Chelmsford, MA (Exit 34/495) at 9am for a ride Coler 860-257-4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com out to South Sugarloaf Mtn. (652 Ft) which overlooks all of S. Deerfield and Amherst MA. (PA) Meet Greet and Ride Sundays Kevin Martin 978-459-6275 We will meet at the Kings Restaurant located in cog145@sprintmail.com Imperial PA. at 10:00 am and pick a destination with who ever shows up, or I will have a ride (NH) Polly's Pancake Parlor ride planned. Kings is located right off the Imperial 5/2/2004 - Ride to n the scenic town of Sugar exit of routes 22-30. Need directions or more Hill for the annual opening of Polly's Pancake info, contact Joe Cyprych. cyprych@hky.com Parlor. We are meeting at Polly's at 10am for or 724.796.1401. Hope to see you there. breakfast. As in previous years we are will have a group ride that leaves the Dunkin Donuts on RT 104E (exit 23 off I-95 New Hampton) at 8:30am Host: Tony Shelver at 603.520.0324 or Calendar of Events tshelver@hotrmail.com groups.msn.com/NHConcoursOwnersGroup/ (VA) Bridges of Madison County Ride pollyspancakeparlorride.msnw 4/18/2004 - Meet for breakfast at 9:00am in Waynesboro, VA at Lynn's Pancake and Steak Spring Fling Regional Rally, Jackson, NH House, 2120 West Main Street (Rt. 250; west side of town). You may come for coffee, but the 5/13 - 5/16/2004 - The 6th annual Spring Fling many different pancakes will tempt you. After is back and headed for the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Rally HQ: Eagle Mountain breakfast, we'll ride some pretty back roads surrounding the Blue Ridge mountains, ending House, Jackson, NH. The rally web page is up in Sperryville, VA at a NEW restaurant or at www.concours.org/ne/SpringFling or see the registration form for complete details. Contact: Cooter’s if he’s still open for some barbecue Tony Shelver 603-520-0324 and maybe bluegrass music. Pat Sprague tshelver@hotmail.com 540-743-5132 psprague@shentel.net
Repetitive Events
Tour rides the Matrix. Meet at McDonald’s Restaurant, Highway 401 and Regional Road 25, in Milton, Ont. 7:30 for breakfast, route sheets handed out at 8:30. This year we’re riding in the Matrix, connecting the dots and racking up the miles. Bring an Ontario road map, a pen and a working odometer. Those who escape the Matrix meet for dinner after 5. Contact Tony Thompson 905-825-1070 or tony.thompson@sympatico.ca (CT) 4 State Ride CT, MA, VT, NH 5/23/2004 - Meet & Greet in Bickford’s Restaurant in Enfield, CT at 8:30 AM. (Directions: 7 Hazard Ave. 860-741-3428. I-91S to exit 47 east. First light take left). Ride starts at 9:15 AM. Route Sheets will be available before the ride starts. All riders and bikes welcome. Jon Coler 860-257-4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com (MA) Quabbin Reservoir Ride 5/29/2004 - Meet at Moto Market, Acton, MA at 9am. We’ll head west via RT62 & 32 stopping at the Reservoir Summit off of RT9. After a brief stop we’ll continue west on RT9 stopping for lunch Harley‘s at the junction of RT9 & 202. Host: Kevin Martin 978-459-6275 or cog145@sprintmail.com
(MD) North Meets South 7 6/18/2004 - 6/20/2004 - Gathering at Martha & Russell Fleming’s house in Hampstead, MD. 2610 Old Fort Schoolhouse Rd. Friday: Come and setup your tent and have a cookout in the evening. There is plenty of tent space in the backyard. Saturday: Breakfast, Ride and Cookout. Breakfast will be held in the driveway. Serving Bacon and Eggs, Juice and Coffee. Starting at 8:00 am then you can leave at your free will on a 270 mile ride that end back here for a cookout that will start about 6 pm. Sunday: Breakfast will be held one more time in the driveway. Starting 8:30 with a guided ride there after. Non camping lodging in Westminster, MD: Boston Inn, 800-634-0846, 410-848-9095; Days Inn, 800-329-7466, 410-857-0500; Best Western, 800-528-1234, 410-857-1900. Lodging in Hanover, MD: Hampton Inn, 800-426-7866, 717-633-1117; Super 8, 800-800-8000, 717-630-8888; (VA) Lost Ride (CT) Explore Narragansett Ride Clearview Motor Inn, 717-637-3701. Directions to the Fleming's: From Westminster: Route 140 4/18/2004 - Meet & Greet at Adams Food Store 5/14 - 5/16/2004 - Gather at Willville Motorcycle Campground Friday evening or to Route 27 North 6 miles, Right on Old Fort Parking Lot on Route 195 in Tolland at 9:15 meet at the Blue Ridge Restaurant at Meadows Schoolhouse Rd. Fleming's is 1 mile on left at AM. The ride will begin at 9:45 AM. (84 to of Dan at 9am Saturday. John Hinton has some top of hill. From Hanover: Take PA 94 south Exit 68, Adams parking lot is 3/10’s mile southeast from exit on the right). We will ride at interesting riding and destination planned. This into MD where it becomes MD 30. Continue to should be much fun in an area known for great Manchester. Turn right at MD 27 (Sheetz store a relaxing pace. We will explore Point Judith, area beaches, & scenic Route 1A. All riders and roads. The weather will be better this year. Hard on left) 2.4 miles. Then a left onto Old Fort roof lodging is available at the Blue Ridge Schoolhouse Rd. Fleming's is 1 mile on left at bike welcome. If more needed info: Jonathan Motel on RT58 at Meadows of Dan at top of hill. Camping in the back yard on Friday Coler 860.257.4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com 540-952-2244. The motel is about one half mile and Saturday night. Please give me a call if you from Willville and we’ll have breakfast there plan on coming so that I know how much food (PA) Slate Run for Buns and Gas Lights Saturday morning at 8:30am. Contact John to fix. Contact Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 5/1 - 5/2/2004 – Meet Saturday at Sheetz at Hinton 540-997-5207 webify@vaix.net fleming@qis.net RT11 and RT114 on the north side of Mechanicsburg, PA at 8am; Plan to leave at (ON) Capital City Tour 8:30am. There will be a riders meeting to hand (Continued on page 6) out maps and route sheets so that everyone can 5/15/2004 Southwestern Ontario’s Capital City ISSUE 2, 2004
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(Schedule continued from page 5)
(CT) Ride, Hike, Water Falls & Ride More 6/20/2004 - Meet at Marcus Dairy in Danbury, CT at 8:30 AM. Ride starts at 9:15 AM. For directions to Marcus Dairy go to www.marcusdairysupersunday.com/directions.htm or e-mail me. This ride will combine some awesome, scenic twisties skirting back and forth along the CT/NY border and then routing us into the Berkshire Taconics. We will enjoy the Bash Bish Falls & a packed lunch (prepare your lunch in advance). If you like twisties, the beauty of nature, and moderate hiking, this is one event not to be missed. All riders and all bikes welcome. Contact Jon Coler 860.257.4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com
CT at 8:30 AM. Ride starts at 9:15 AM. Ride along sensational twisties skirting the CT, NY State line and then route to The Wandering Moose Café in W. Cornwall, CT for a brief break and some light fare. We’ll head along the CT/MA line to The Vanilla Bean in Pomfret, CT. These restaurants are area motorcyclists’ favorites. All riders and bikes welcome. Contact Jonathan Coler 860.257.4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com (MA) Southern VT Day 8/7/2004 - Meet at Moto Market, Acton, MA at 8:30am, and take a ride up through Southern Vermont. Routes include; RT 100, 30, 112. Host: Kevin Martin 978-459-6275 or cog145@sprintmail.com
(MA) Visit Queeche Gorge, VT 6/26/2004 - Meet at Dunkin Donuts on RT 110, Chelmsford (Exit 34 / 495) @ 7:30 am. Join me for an early morning ride up to Queeche Vermont to have lunch and view Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon. Host: Kevin Martin 978-459-6275 or cog145@sprintmail.com
(WV) Dog Days Ride, Boyer, WV 8/13/04 - 8/14/04: Leave the heat and join other Coggers at the Boyer Motel and Campground at 2,693 feet where the weather is cooler and the roads are great. Excellent restaurant, campground, and a motel all at one location. Call the Boyer Motel for reservations at (304) 456-4667. Plenty of deer in this pretty area… (MA) Mt. Greylock Summit Ride watch for them! Pat Sprague 540-743-5132 7/11/2004 - Meet at Dunkin Donuts on RT 110, psprague@shentel.net Chelmsford (Exit 34 / 495) @ 7:30 am. Join me for a ride out the Mohawk Trail into North (NH) Vermont Perimeter Ride Adams MA to climb to the summit of Mt. 8/13/2004 - 8/14/2004 - A weekend ride around Greylock, the highest point in the State of the borders of Vermont. Mark Jenson Massachusetts (3,491 ft). Host: Kevin Martin 603-756-4143 or mjenson@adelphia.net 978-459-6275 or cog145@sprintmail.com (MD) COG / BMW Get Together FloodCity National, Johnstown, PA 8/15/2004 - Russell Fleming of COG and Eddie 7/13/2004 - 7/17/2004 - No excuse for NE area Phelps of MW were discussing way to get more members to miss out on another COG National. camaraderie between brands of motorcycles. Get registration forms from the Concourier, Here is what we came up with. Meet for rally web site, or touch base with the rally breakfast at the Golden Corral in Frederick MD master or area director. Call Jason Kaplitz on route 355 south of route 70 at 9 am. After 814.535.8669 or www.concours.org/2004 breakfast route sheets will be handed out for a 130 mile self guided ride that will end at (CT) The Dairy, The Moose & The Bean Mountain Gate Family Restaurant in 7/25/2004 -Meet at Marcus Dairy in Danbury,
Waynesboro PA. The ride will take you on some of the FINEST Motorcycle riding roads in the area. Come out and show your support for Sport Touring at it’s finest. Contact Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 or fleming@qis.net (CT) Meet, Greet n Ride, Southbury 8/15/2004 - Meeting time 9:00am at Dunkin Donuts in Southbury. A route may be provided or riders will decide where they want to go. Directions: From I-84: Get off exit 15 go north to light at first shopping plaza on left. Take a left and then an immediate left into shopping plaza. Look for Dunkin Donuts. (Look carefully, zoning laws don’t allow usual bright DD sign Contact Jon Coler 860.257.4009 or joncoler@yahoo.com (NH) 45th Parallel Lunch 8/21/2004 - Jeff Adams repeats this ride by popular request... Dine from the widest menu in the Great North Woods, only yards South of the 45th parallel, exactly halfway between the Equator & the North Pole! Take a souvenir photo by the historic marker! Dine on goose, smell the spruce, see the moose! We are meeting at the Spa Restaurant in West Stewartston, NH, RT 3: just yards from the 45th parallel. The food is good, plentiful (to excess) and cheap: right up the COG alley. Please RSVP Jeff Adams Jeff@WhitehorsePress.com or Tony Shelver 603.520.0324 (VT) Northeast Fall Rally 9/9 - 9/12/04 – Stowe, VT. A fun filled weekend is planned. Commodores Inn will be the rally headquarters. Mark your calendars now. Check out the info in this issue. There are more events on the NE schedule that will appear next issue or go to the online ride database: www.concours.org/schedule
Sadie Hawkins Social Ride - by Pat Sprague (2-29-2004) This get together was originally planned as an escape from Winter’s hard grip, with four wheel drive being much more likely than one wheel drive as our mode of transportation. But Mother Nature smiled on us and proffered a sunny day with the temperature climbing to 67 degrees F. The roads were clean and the riding sweet, more so after three months of snow, sleet, and ice. Several folks rode their bikes. Twenty four of us gathered at Michie (pronounced Mickey) Tavern for a sumptuous home cooked country styled luncheon. Present were Clyde Watson, James and Martha Sparkman, Bob and Patty Dombrowe, Greg Puterbaugh, Sharon and Herman Tessman, Rick (Discounts - continued from page 2)
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Franz, George Dennis, Glen Winemiller, Jim and Corene Pugh, Charles Winkler, Jim and Margaret Hammond, Dusty and Cindy Schilling, Paul Farinholt, Tim McEldowney, Pete and Marty Long, and Pat and Sharry Sprague. Served here was some of the best fried chicken I have ever eaten. Most of us had the peach cobbler to round off the meal. After dinner most also took a very interesting and fun guided tour of the Michie Tavern museum where we even learned to do the Virginia Reel. Thanks to all who attended. It was good to see everyone, and especially nice to meet some of COG’s “other half”, who often patiently await our safe returns. harness and carrying pouch Only $179.95 less 20%. Single Portable Heat-Troller, battery harness and carrying pouch. Only $69.95 less 20%. Single Mounted Heat-Troller with battery harness Only $79.95 less 20%. Already own a Heat-Troller? To get the latest version, check out the upgrade offer on our website! Promotion code: MSF To order, call 503-449-4391 or send an e-mail to sales@warmnsafe.com
N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
COG Mid Atlantic Crabcakes Ride Report - by Pat Sprague #1887 A beautiful cool Saturday morning unfolded for the riders who gathered at Holly’s Restaurant in Grasonville, MD for the annual Crabcakes Ride. Patrick McGrath and I connected en route and were joined at Holly’s by Paul Farinholt, Craig Clive, Warren Kuhn, Paul Gerhardt, Clyde Watson, Alan Mognet, Greg Puterbaugh, Bobby Winters, Al General & his lovely wife, and Mike Nasca. Breakfast is my favorite meal and when someone else is doing the work, I can’t resist; those 10 Winter pounds will have to come off later. Unable to attend, Russell Fleming was recuperating (going nuts at home) from some foot surgery. Sorry you couldn’t make it, Russell…hope you are soon back in the saddle again. Bobby Winters had laid out an excellent ride route which Russell had printed. Most of us rode the 210 miles before arriving at the Sandy Hill campground in Quantico, MD where we spent a windy night. Eight of us camped on a nice knoll under pine trees. With a good supply of firewood on hand our COG Mid Atlantic “Firemeister”, Clyde Watson, soon had a nice campfire going, but not before a great meal was enjoyed at the Red Roost, some five miles away. Winds picked up to 20+ mph but our tents held well. Rain set in about 3 AM but cleared off by eight.
Pat McGrath, Paul Farinholt, Warren, Craig, Mike, Bobby, Clyde, and I headed for breakfast in Laurel, DE and found Naz Asga heading towards our campground. He joined us in Laurel, as did Herman Tessman and At Sandy Hill Campground three friends. After another excellent breakfast the lot of us rode the back roads near the bay for a few hours before arriving at the Suicide Bridge restaurant where we enjoyed CRABCAKES. The Eastern Shore of Maryland is often breezy and March is certainly no exception. Our bikes often felt more like kites and the 25 mph gusts made crossing the big bridges rather dicey. Gas mileage even dropped for many riders. We pointed our bikes towards home, grateful for a safe ride and that Winter was about over. It started snowing as I pulled in my driveway.
Southern Wrench Fest - by Pat Sprague #1887 AAD (2-4-04) Some fifteen Coggers and friends rode to Lynchburg, VA to enjoy the hospitality of Jim and Margaret Hammond and to put Jim’s beautiful 30’ x 40’ garage to good use. Folks came from as far as Marietta, Ohio, Hanover, PA and Durham, NC to join in the productive fun. Scott Ashbaugh and Chris Stull rode from the Marietta/ Parkersburg area over US route 50, pegging out some 100 miles in four hours in the snow. When we weren’t cluttering Jim’s garage we were enjoying Margaret’s chili or barbecue with all the trimmings. Margaret is a wonderful cook and hostess. “Vacation cookies”, a Hammond family favorite, are best eaten dunked in coffee; they are one of Jim’s four food groups - we did leave him a few. The 42 cup coffee pot got a continuous workout. Connies Undressed
Friday evening has us doing some preparatory stripping of bikes. After Saturday breakfast at the Hammond’s we started turning wrenches. “We” included Dusty Schilling, Scott Ashbaugh, Chris Stull, Robert Held, Guy Young, Clyde Watson, Sean O’Keef, Mike Schmidt, Trevor Angel, Thom DeCarlo, Charles Winkler, Mitch Russell, Ed Fritz, Mark Marshall, and Pat Sprague. Over the weekend the following was accomplished: Oil and filter changes (2) Spark plugs changed (8); Valve clearances set (4 bikes); Coolant change (1); Spline lube (2); Final drive O ring replaced (1); Carb synch (4 bikes); Throttle body synch (1 bike); Petcock rebuild (1); Progressive Springs installed (1 bike); Fork seals replaced (1 bike); Fork fluid changed (2 bikes); Speedo cable lubed (1); Rear shock oil changed (1); Tire changes (2); New front brake rotors placed (1 bike); New brake pads (2 front, 1 rear); New brake hoses (3 on one bike); New clutch hose (1); Balancer adjusted (3 bikes); J box repaired (1). Farkles added: Hyperlites (1); Headlight modulator (1); Fork brace (1); Bakelite H4 socket (1); and a Partridge in a Pear tree. ISSUE 2, 2004
The Mity Vac and Twin Max got a good workout. A lot was learned. A lot of fun had doing the work. At the going local shop labor rate, a bunch of money was saved. It was however discovered that even a 12 ton press won’t break a tire bead with the valve core still in. After supper on Saturday a few “Men of COG” were caught while they were working on a QUILT!! This was like discovering a new species and the cameras were flashing. I think this was Jim’s idea. Maybe you’d like a Double Wedding Ring tank cover? Maybe not. A cold front rolled in at 3:10 AM Sunday, yeah, truly a wake-up call Men of COG - names withheld by request complete with 40 mph winds. Everyone safely rode home, though it was very tricky. Sunday morning it was discovered that Trevor Angel had picked up a nail in his brand new tire. It probably happened after his beer run on Saturday night, but luckily it quickly pulled right out, and further luckily it was only the nail’s head, as some of his COG friends had thoughtfully cut it from the nail and placed it in the tread groove after his return. A choice unprintable title was immediately bestowed upon those responsible, and the Australian accent somewhat elevated the lowly title. What the terminus of the digestive system has to do with a six penny nail I don’t know. Our host was in the midst of adjusting the valve clearances on his ’84 Ninja 900, the first ninja and Mother of the Concours. He put that on hold to help others turn wrenches. Jim is also learning to roller blade in his garage. Jim will be 76 years old in late April -a pretty amazing dude. A huge Thank You goes to Margaret and Jim (who will be 74 years young on April 25) for their wonderful hospitality. Folks like the Hammond’s, and those who attended help to make COG the best group of people anywhere. Now that your bikes are ready, I hope to see you on a ride soon. Page 7
Our Newest Northeast Area Members Kevin Kramer, #6184 Colonia, NJ
Robert Calin, #6224 Clarks Summit, PA
George Bradshaw, #6252 York, PA
Alan Beck, #6185 Canterbury, CT
Sherman Baumann, #6226 Moodus, CT
Michael Riester, #6254 Kanata, ON Canada
Richard Infusino, #6194 Apo, AE
Cameron Buchanan, #6235 Sudbury, ON Canada
Bill Ritzman, #6255 State College, PA
Mark & Barbara Montesi, #6195 Mount Kisco, NY
Bill Bauer, #6236 Waldorf, MD
Rick Marendt, #6257 Meadville, PA
Ray Cimera, #6200 Olivebridge, NY
Glen Ilacqua, #6237 Scituate, MA
Noel Wilmot, #6263 Rosedale, NY
Forest Hyde Jr, #6204 Winchendon, MA
A. Wesley Chappell, #6241 Springfield, VA
William Lawrence II, #6265 Nokesville, VA
Calvin Thomas, #6209 Middletown, NY
Paul Young, #6242 Paterson, NJ
M Stanton Putnam, #6266 Revere, MA
Christopher Stull, #6214 Parkersburg, WV
John Eitel Jr, #6243 Elmwood Park, NJ
David Gingerich & Catherine Bauting, #6271 Norval, ON Canada
Gary& Kathy Atkinson, #6215 Pine Grove, PA
Michael Countryman, #6246 Canajoharie, NY
Peter Davisson, #6272 Hainesport, NJ
Daniel Clark, #6223 Lexington Park, MD
Gary Manning, #6251 Baltimore, MD
Peter Kaiser, #6274 Spring Grove, PA
Northeast “Green Mountain Fever” Fall Rally As we kick off another riding season it is not to soon to think about a great, season wrap up with participation in the COG Northeast “Green Mountain Fever” Fall Rally the weekend of September 9-12. The rally date is a month earlier this year to take advantage of some warmer riding weather as we head to the Village of Stowe, Vermont. Each year the attendance of the Northeast Area Regional Rallies continues to climb. We hope that you will help us maintain this trend by adding this must do event to your calendar now and honoring us with your attendance. We hope to provide a memorable event and have some great routes being planned. The late summer weather should provide spectacular riding conditions. On Friday this rally will also feature an optional bonus location Scavenger Hunt that should be a lot of fun for all those choosing to participate. We have chosen Commodores Inn as our rally headquarters, which Page 8
provides a beautiful 30-acre lakeside setting at the entrance to Stowe. 800.447.8693 (www.commodoresinn.com) Featuring modern comfort with country charm, this resort has all of the amenities to make your visit enjoyable including: a 3-1/2 acre lake with canoes, kayaks, row boats and paddle boats; heated outdoor and indoor pools; 3 large Jacuzzis, 2 saunas; comfortable living room with large fieldstone fireplace, and more. Our special nightly rates (including tax & gratuity) are: Single $68; Double $78. With full buffet breakfast included: Single $78; Double $88. Call the resort directly for reservations. Be sure to mention Concours Owners Group. The next newsletter will contain more information and a registration form. For now, preliminary details are posted on the rally web site, including the registration form. Please take a moment to look at the Fall Rally web page at: www.concours.org/ne/FallFoliage N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S