Cognitions: Random thoughts from the Northeast Area Director - By Steven Smith #3184 Issue 5, 2008
This is my column, so please indulge me a moment of your time. I’ve been absent from many COG events this year, a decision that did not come easily. Some of you at Spring Fling may have heard that my dad was fighting cancer for a few years and went into a hospice around the time of the rally. After a long and valiant battle, he passed on Sept 25. Some may remember him from the 2007 Flood City National or a Stowe, VT rally. He was suppose to join us at Canaan Valley, but was not up to traveling. He was a great guy and will be very missed. Even though he did not ride, dad really enjoyed hanging out and talking to others at the COG rallies that he and my mom attended. My heartfelt thanks goes to all in my extended COG family that sent along best wishes, prayers, condolences, cards, tasty goodies, etc. To anyone going through something similar with a loved one, I have complete empathy and sympathy. As my cousin told me, keep tabs on the good moments so that you will know normalcy when it returns.
Northeast Staff– Help Needed! We’ve been soliciting for an replacement to take over the Maryland and south central Pennsylvania AAD position for a while. Russell Fleming will be stepping down at the end of the year and I am a very concerned that activities will take a downward turn if someone is not in place to take over the position. The AADs help facilitate COG activities, provide guidance to other members who wish to host an activity, and maintain the activity schedule for their region. It takes only a little effort, but the rewards are great. If you have interest in this or any other possible NE AAD positions please touch base with me as soon as possible. I will do my best to explain what is involved.
Northeast Event Schedule This is the time of year to begin thinking about spring & summer COG activities and we have already begun to compile the event schedule for 2009. We promote our activities by way of the event calendar in the newsletter and on our web site, as well as by sending out occasional email reminder notices. We recognize that not everyone uses the internet, but nearly 100% of the COG Northeast membership receives this newsletter so is the best method to promote rides and other activities. Please remember that the newsletter is only published every other month so it is best to send in activity submissions 3-6 months prior to the event. If you have an idea for a ride or other activity be sure to contact your AAD or myself and we will provide assistance to plan and promote your event. The end of the year is not too far off, but we still have a number of terrific activities planned. All remaining Northeast activities are listed in this newsletter and also posted in the online Event Calendar at www.cog-online.org. When viewing the online Event Calendar, be sure to select the North East Area to see our events. Ooops - several of you caught my mistake on the fall rally registration form where it says “summer rally” instead of “fall rally.” That’s what I get for a hasty cut & paste from a past rally flyer. Thankfully, it did not prevent anyone from signing up. At this time there are over 40 people registered, with nearly 80% of the registrations being done online. How great is that?
The COG web site, COGMOS, www.cog-online.org We are all still learning to use the COGMOS system and the many features it offers that should help streamline club operations and provide service many of you have asked for. The Fall Rally is the first Northeast Area event using online registration and payment. So far, so good. A large percentage of rally registrants used the online system to register and pay. I will review how well it worked, and will report back to you in the next newsletter. It is good to see that use of the new web site is increasing. A little over one-half of Northeast Area members have created accounts on the new web site. It is my desire to get all Northeast Members to create an online account and use the COGMOS system. Once all Northeast members are entered into the online database we will be able to use this as our primary database when we need to look up your contact info, send emails or letters. Even if you are a current COG member you will need to create an online account if you want be part of and use the COGMOS services. Creating an account to use COGMOS is simple, and if your dues are current there is absolutely no additional cost. Oh, and by the way… Associate members can have their own login and account. Signing up is the same for current members as it is for new members to COG. Just go to the web site www.cog-online.org, click on Join COG Today, and following the instructions for existing members (using the Forum Subscriber option). Once you have created your online account, the COG membership director will verify your membership and will fully activate your account. Please contact me if you have any questions or issues.
Newsletter Update These Northeast Newsletters are published six times a year. Several years of NE Area News archives are located in the COGMOS web site Library. In an effort to “go green” and help save on ever increasing printing and mailing costs we make the newsletter available as an electronic publication, or what I have been calling eNews. With eNews, when a new issue is ready, members will receive an email with a web link to download the latest newsletter. If you wish to be switched over to eNews, please send me an email. At this time members have the option to have the newsletter as a mailed hard copy or eNews, but not both. If you selected both hard copy and email in your online user profile, eventually email only will become the default.
COG article deadlines The deadline for the next Northeast Area News is November 30. Winter Concourier Issue submission deadline is December 1.
Until next time, ride safe.
Steve
Northeast Area Staff Area Director Steven Smith, #3184 203-720-7575 nead@cog-online.org Newsletter Editor Louis Caplan #2894 703-978-9844 Nighthawk700@yahoo.com Web Staff Steve Smith Kendra Weaver, #4807A
Assistant Area Directors Massachusetts (VT, NH, ME) Kevin Martin, #145 Dracut, MA 978-459-6275 cog145@verizon.net Connecticut (RI) Norm & Lorie Walton, #7011 Cromwell, CT 860-836-5162 ctaad@live.com Metro NY/NJ Terry Faherty, #792 Staten Island, NY 718-227-2099 tmcefah@aol.com NY Hudson Valley Mike Flynn, #4493 Bedford Hills, NY 914-239-3721 Keltwolf@optonline.net Western NY J.R. Healy, #6591 Hamburg, NY 716-648-6729 Dafonman52@yahoo.com
Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh (Western PA) Joe Cyprych, #4665 McDonald, PA 724-796-1401 cyprych@windstream.net DelMarVa & Philly burbs (PA/NJ) Bob Chappell, #1283 Claymont, DE 302-791-0582 cog1283@comcast.net Ken Quesenberry, #3361 Hockessin, DE 302-234-0737 kqberry@comcast.net Maryland/Southern PA Russell Fleming, #599 Hampstead, MD 410-374-9687 Fleming@qis.net Virginia/West Virginia Kurt & Sue Nordstrom, #6049/A Spotsylvania, VA 540-582-9414 Ironhorsefun@mindspring.com Greater Toronto, Canada Dave Clancy, #5452 Hamilton, Ontario 905-389-7681 davecla2@sympatico.ca Eastern Ontario, Canada Ranald MacDonald, #2349 Greely, Ontario 613-821-1206 macdonrg@rogers.com
30 Consecutive Rallies - by Brian Roth, #1722 If there was ever a loyal COG member, this is the guy. Chris Lawrence is very much a familiar face in Northeast COGdom. He just attended his 30th consecutive Northeast COG rally as a matter of fact at the Dog Days Rally in West Virginia. His familiar sticker clad Connie (the 2nd that is, after Connie #1 suffered head gasket disaster) is known to many of us as we always look forward to seeing what he’s added to his bike’s growing collection of travel souvenirs. Whether he’s kicking tires and downing a cold frosty in the parking lot, or enjoying one of the famous COG banquet night get togethers, Chris is the “Dude” you don’t want to miss chatting with. His two wheel sojourn recollections are always a blast to listen to whether it was from one of his many Edelweiss adventures or a hair raising experience while sporting about in his home state of Connecticut on his KLR. Come rain, shine, sleet or snow, Chris is one of the main reasons that COG is such a great organization to be a member of – the great people that make up our membership. Chris Lawrence holding mug Here’s to you Chris. See you at the presented to him by Brian Roth for his attending 30 consecutive COG NE next bash in Bar Harbor! Area Rallies. (Guy Young)
MD/S. Central PA Report- by Russ Fleming, #599 What’s happening in Maryland and south central Pennsylvania? August 17 had the Sport-touring at its Finest ride. There were about 45 motorcycles that showed up for a day of fun and camaraderie. The longest distance rider was a father and son who came from Connecticut for a day. There were 12 COG members, 13 FJR’s, 10 BMW and a mix of others. The September ride of over the river and through the woods by Tony Borum was a great success. A total of 25 motorcyclists showed up at Green Country Inn for breakfast in Brunswick, Md. There were 3 C14’s there. With 14 COG members and 11 guests we went on a fun ride. Everybody should thank Tony for the nice ride. THANKS TONY!!
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 their COG experiences. 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 Page 2
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
Don’t forget that at the end of the year I am stepping down as AAD. If anyone would be interested let me, Steve Smith, or Guy Young know so that we can get you set up and running. I will still be around I am not running away. Martha and Russell will still host the North/South 12, tentativly at the end of June . We will still have plenty of camping room in the back yard, plenty of food, two or three rides to choose from and a new twist this year Jay Schaffer volunteered to lay out a dual-sport ride. For other rides in the area check out the NE web site. Oct 17-19 Fall Foliage Ride and Camp, Meadows of Dan, VA Nov 7-9 “Brrrrrrrrrrr Ride” Natural Bridge, VA Nov 16 Buttersburg Inn Dessert Ride
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!
December 2008 ride will be put together depending on the weather
Copyright 2008 © Concours Owners Group
N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
VA/WV Report - by Kurt & Sue Nordsrom, #6049 August: Another successful Dog Days Rally in Boyer, WV is in the books. We had 47 participants from all across the USA; they included, but were not limited to VA, WV, NJ, NY, CT, IN, NC, GA, MD, and OH. A few of our COG members stayed a week, others for a few days and some came just for the rally. The roads in this area of WV are phenomenal with long sweepers, tight switchbacks, lazy curves, steep inclines and rolling hills; there was something for everyone. Many of us made the annual trek to Rella’s Café (anytime you’re in WV you just have to go there) in Hacker Valley, WV. Rella’s 8 oz burger is to die for; her homemade hot blueberry cobber with vanilla ice cream isn’t bad either. The Green Bank Radio Telescope Observatory was within a few miles of the campground; free tours of the facility were available on the hour. The tour started with a short movie presentation about the history of Green Bank followed by a bus tour where you could observe the scientist looking for the next solar system or ET. The CASS Railroad, Snowshoe Ski Resort and the New River Gorge were other attractions that were visited as well. The rally culminated on Saturday evening with fried chicken and all the fixins’ supplied by the Boyer Station Restaurant. The groceries were good! A special thanks also needs to go to the campground owner’s grandson for keeping us COGgers stocked with firewood for the weekend. That young man worked his fanny off, but was rewarded by the generosity of a few of the members. View from the Boyer campground after a brief
All said and done it was a rain came in. (Joe Cyprych) very successful outing. 96% of the attendees left positive feedback on the rally. Because of this positive feedback the Rally Master(s) have made the decision that there will be another Summer Rally in Boyer, WV for 2009. It just doesn’t get any better than $7/day per person camping, clean restroom facilities and a restaurant/small motel on site. I would like to give special thanks Jason Kaplitz, Joe Cyprych and Sue Nordstrom for all their hard work to make this rally happen, and without any problems. Also, a thank you needs to go out to David Muir for getting us the great looking rally shirts! We missed you David, hope you had a good time in Sturgis. September: The Wine Ride is in the books… so to speak. No one
ISSUE 5, 2008
Dog Days Rally Group Photo
showed up from the VA & WV contingent for the ride. One lonely COGger (Larry Stewart) from Graham, NC showed up and enjoyed the route. Shannon Miller from Northern VA stopped by in the morning to wish the three of us a safe ride and Bob Dombrowe of Keswick, VA joined us for dinner. The weather was perfect, the accommodations at the Charlottesville KOA were great and the roads in the area were fantastic! The cuisine at Lumpkins and the 330 Valley Street Restaurant was first class and at evenings end the bar in Sue’s land yacht was open for business. In closing… our lives are ever changing and when Sue and I volunteered for the AAD position back in the summer of 2007 we figured we could give it a 3 - 5 year stint. Well priorities in our life, our health and unforeseen family issues have changed our lives dramatically since volunteering. We have a choice to make, step down as AAD’s or just scale back the monthly COG routine for the 2009 riding season and for the foreseeable future. After this past weekends poor turn out at the Wine Ride we have decided to dramatically scale back the riding schedule. I do not know if it is the weak economy (couldn’t tell it at the KOA this past weekend as it was a full house) or the Coggers in this area have too many choices and are in sensory overload or you just do not like the routes/events that Sue and I have planned this year, but the attendance for this year’s rides so far has been down right awful. It takes a little bit of work (sometimes a lot) to plan as many events that we have had in the VA & WV area and when there is no participation, it is a little disheartening. And I am not talking just for us but for the others that have volunteered their time and efforts this year as well. This being said, we will put together or assist in putting together 2–4 outings for the 2009 riding season. Again, I would like to thank everyone that has helped us during the 2008-riding season and those that have already volunteered to assist for the 2009-riding season. Til next time……….ride safe, Kurt & Sue Nordstrom.
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Motorcycle Shows - Volunteers Wanted
2009 International Motorcycle Shows
The promoters are looking for clubs to help at the show’s Welcome Center. This will be the first area people walk through when they arrive at the IMS (they have to walk through the center) There will be several elements to the Welcome Center, one being an information center, staffed by a full-time IMS employee, an area for safety and new riders, staffed by the MSF, sometimes there will be an area for women riders, and there will be an area for clubs.
This nationwide show series allows motorcycle fans to get an up-close look at more than 600 new models. There are two IMS venues within the COG Northeast Area. Terry Faherty is planning a Saturday lunch gathering at the NYC show. See his report in this issue.
In the club section they are looking for club members to volunteer to work as ambassadors for both all clubs and their club specifically. What club ambassadors would do is to inform interested show attendees about what a motorcycle club is like (as opposed to what you see on TV/in movies), the benefits, what clubs there are (we’ll provide a list of known local clubs) and in general, how one becomes a part of a club. Club ambassadors can also inform these people (often new riders or people interested in becoming a rider) the best places to ride in their area. All club ambassadors will receive free weekend VIP access to the show and the following additional benefits for the club: Lieutenant Level - Fill 2 Shifts/4 Volunteers: VIP weekend passes for registered club ambassador volunteers. 20 $2 Off discount coupons for members to use when purchasing a show ticket. Club recognition in the Welcome Center. Capitan Level - Fill 4 Shifts/8 Volunteers: Same as Lieutenant, plus: 40 $2 Off discount show coupons. Free moto gift for club members attending the show. Access to a convention center meeting room for a club gathering. Colonel Level - Fill 6+ Shifts/12 Volunteers: same as Captain, plus: Unlimited $2 Off discount coupons. 250 show commemorative stickers with your club logo. Club Ambassadors volunteer to be in the Welcome Center for complete shifts of 3-5 hours, and we are allowed two volunteers per shift. There are a limited number of “shifts” available at each show, and they are first come, first served (within COG and other clubs as well, so book early). COG gets more perks when more of our members volunteer. Here is the available shift schedule (you need to volunteer for an entire shift): New York:
shift 1
shift 2
shift 3
Friday Saturday Sunday
12:00pm-5:00pm 9:00am-1:00pm 9:00am-1:00pm
5:00pm-9:00pm 1:00pm-5:00pm 1:00pm-5:00pm
5:00pm-9:00pm
DC:
shift 1
shift 2
shift 3
Friday Saturday Sunday
4:00pm-9:00pm shift unavailable shift tunavailable
1:00pm-4:00pm 1:00pm-5:00pm
4:00pm-8:00pm
If the NE budget allows, I plan to provide a COG t-shirt to wear at the show the first 12 COG members volunteer and be assigned to shifts. Two COG members have volunteered to coordinate volunteers for the NY and DC shows. Please contact them ASAP if you wish to volunteer. NYC Show Contact:
•
Steve Cerutti: SteveOnline@optonline.net
DC Show Contact:
•
Bob Chappell: cog1283@comcast.net, 302-791-0582
Any other questions, contact: Steve Smith, nead@concours.org, 203-720-7575
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New York City: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center Friday, January 16 Noon - 9:00pm Saturday, January 17 9:00am - 9:00pm Sunday, January 18 9:00am - 5:00pm Admission - Adult: 1-day $17 | Children 6-11: 1-day $6, 5 & under free Washington, DC: Washington Convention Center Friday, January 9 4:00pm - 9:00pm Saturday, January 10 9:30am - 8:00pm Sunday, January 11 9:30am - 5:00pm Admission - Adult: 1-day $13 | Children 6-11: 1-day $6, 5 & under free Tickets may be purchased online at: www.motorcycleshows.com Online prices are a dollar or two less than the box office price, and using the promo code “necog” will get you an additional $2 off the online price. Remember, there are no discounts at the ticket booths and only cash payments are taken. Be prepared - there may not be an ATM.
Greater Toronto Report - by Dave Clancy, #5452 You will see from the Event Schedule that the Greater Toronto Area group continues to meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month – even all winter. The Toronto Motorcycle industry show in December, and the Annual Super show by the airport at the International Centre will be here soon. Come on out and meet other members, enjoy a fall evening ride, plan a fall ride before the snow flies – everyone is welcome, wives, friends etc. whether members or not. Feel free to contact me anytime.
Western PA Report - by Joe Cyprych, #4665 We just about wrapped up another great year of riding, and we’re already looking forward to planning next years events. We held quite a few weekend rides this year and they were all well attended, thanks to all that came. I hope you had a great time. Speaking of a great time, the Wellsboro campout had a big turnout with folks from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, NY, and a few Canucks thrown in. Sorry if I forgot a state. We could have named it COG and Hog this year because the ride fell on the same weekend as the campground’s pig roast and we were invited to attend (what a deal ). We plan on doing our Western PA Sunday “Meet, Greet and Rides” again next year, as we are planning on 3 or 4 weekenders. For next year there will be there will be a change on where I post this information. All of my ride and info will only be posted to our web site (www.cog-online.org ) and in the newsletter. I think this is where we COGgers all need to start going for our ride info, forum, etc. As always, if you have a ride idea, weekender or whatever, please feel free to contact myself or Steve and we will help you make it happen. Take care, Joe N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
Metro NY Report - by Terry Faherty #792
Delaware Report - by Bob Chappell, #1283
Greetings from Gotham! Sorry for the no show in the last newsletter, but shortly after volunteering for this esteemed position I was accepted at a full time job at my hospital. The 0445 wakeups took some getting used to but for weekends and holidays off I can deal with it!
Without a functioning bike, I had some initial thoughts to pull the plug on the Chunk Yer Punkins ride. I hate having to do that again, and Melanie really wants to do it, so what the heck… we’re still on. Besides, I can throw my Audi through the curves fairly well (it's just not the same).
It's been a tough summer for me riding wise. My last real ride was the Stowe Rally in Vermont in July. But don't feel too bad for me. By the time you get this, I'll have at least enjoyed the Backroads Fall Fiesta Rally in Pennsylvania and Maryland/West Virginia. I also had am incredible opportunity to head out to the MotoGP in Indianapolis and you can read about my exploits in the story I wrote. (ed—Terry’s MoptoGP story & photos were submitted to the Concourier… hopefully in the next issue)
Mark your calendars for November 2, and join us Sunday, November 2, at 08:00 for breakfast at the Crossroads Restaurant. We'll be hitting the road sometime between 09:00 and 09:30. The plan is to explore some curvy/twisty roads that can be found on the upper DelMarVa peninsula, and on into Southeastern PA. Then we’ll find a "Mom-and-Pop" type place for lunch, ride some more, then stop somewhere cool along the way (like maybe the whirlybirds at the American Helicopter Museum). Details on the Event Calendar.
I've also been a busy little beaver upgrading my FZ-1 with a new Akropovic pipe, K&N filter, custom cables, and soon an Ivan's jet kit. The extra income sure comes in handy, and I don't get the fish eye from the wife/CFO! =) Due to the new job the Bar Harbor Rally isn't in the cards, so have one or two tasty beverages for me. I'll be hosting a day ride Saturday, October 25, through northern NJ and the Catskills. Rain date will be November 1. We'll be meeting at the Cracker Barrel for some high cholesterol sustenance off of Interstate 80, exit 30, between 7 and 8am, and then get on the road. Remember that the Javitz show will be here before you know it and we'll be doing our usual early dinner/late lunch at Virgil's. Meet by the Connie at 2:30pm ish to get a head count, grab cabs and head on over. See you out on the road! (ed– see show info elsewhere in this issue)
Connecticut Report - by Norm & Lorie Walton, #7011 We had a great day Aug 23 for the “Run to the Shoreline and Back” ride. There were 12 bikes and 14 people in attendance. The following attended, A.K., Mark Melmer, Mike Cullinan, Jay Richardson, Gerry Barnett, George Noble, Tim Castelvetere, Joanne Slater, Jim Waterman, Bill and Gay DeRose, Mike Green and Lorie and myself. We had great weather and rode some awesome roads to a lunch spot in Old Saybrook called the Monkey Farm for some great lunch. After lunch some people had to make their way home but a few made the ride over the CT River and through some great roads into devils Hopyard and beyond. I hope everyone had a good day, I know I did.
On October 5 Gerry Barnett took us on a Hillbilly breakfast ride. Well, a damp start to the day didn't stop 9 riders and one passenger from having fun. Craig and Lee Rabin, Norm and Lorie Walton, Carl Dye, Tim Castelvetere, Jerry Gillespie. Dave Dutton, George Noble, and Gerry Barnett left the damp Bickfords parking lot for the drier northern climate of the Berkshires. We left for the Berkshire Hillbillies restaurant at 9:00 AM and took some great roads up through the hills just over the state line and as they say “over the river and through the woods…” We had a real nice time enjoying a fine breakfast and then wound our way back to CT. We had a few rider/GPS boo boos but we all made it back safe and sound. Thanks to all the folks who supported the ride by coming up through the rain downstate. Another great NECOG get together! Almost leaf peeping time…
COG-Online.org Forum opens to the Public We hit our target date of September 1st to upgrade the current Cogmos Member-only Forum to provide free “Guest” accounts and a public facing section. Guests will be able to view and post to all areas except those restricted to COG members. The public (i.e. those without an account) can view all posts except areas restricted to COG members. This will enable COG to have a fully-integrated system that enables complete management and service to members and non members alike. The intention is to provide more up-to-date information to the general public, while providing better services to members such that they feel they get good value for their membership fee. This effort expands upon the theme elsewhere on cog-online to offer both an area for the public to "check us out" and added benefits for COG members. After spending some time on the forum, we hope that guests will join as new members after seeing and feeling the great camaraderie we have in COG. We will also be “UPGRADING” our member registration process: Any new member joining and paying online can, after payment verification: download Chalkdust, view 12 past editions of Concourier, look up other local members against their specific interests, and post a wanted/ classified ad for a left-handed torque wrench. Best Regards Colin Prior, COG #7767 COGMOS Committee Chairman
Our next monthly dinner gathering will be 6:30PM on November 11 (note this is the 2nd TUE) at Verona Pizzeria, (www.veronapizzeria.com) 2211 Meriden Waterbury Rd, Marion, CT, 860-621-1924. Verona Pizzeria features wood fired, brick oven, thin crust pizza and was voted #1 in Southington. From I-84, Exit 28, turn Left, Verona Pizzeria will be on the right. ISSUE 5, 2008
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“Wellsboro Campout” - by Jason Kaplitz, #62 (photos by Steve & Sue Cerutti #6763/A) We returned to Stonyfork Creek Campground for our 4th Annual Wellsboro Campout on September 19-21, 2008. The weatherman predicted great late summer weather early in the week, which not only came true, but also helped push attendance to more than 20 campers. The fact that it was the annual Pig Roast at the campground didn’t hurt either. I arrived late Friday evening just before dark. My riding partner Beth and her daughter Gina had arrived earlier in the day via Nissan truck and had our campsite all set up. There was a good crowd, including three Canadians and a couple stray BMW riders. With temperatures in the low 40’s the campfire was burning bright and well attended, with most juggling for the best position. I even noticed a few adult beverages being consumed to help warm the inner spirits! Saturday dawned cool and foggy but Mother Nature soon took over and cleared things out for what was beginning to look like a great day. I offered to take a couple of our new Canadian friends, Tony & Gary for a little tour of the area. Strawboss & Altoona John joined us to round out the group at five bikes. After a bagel & coffee at the Native Bagel we headed out into the now bright and sunny day. We toured the east side of the canyon, taking the customary picture from the top of the gorge. It’s always a beautiful sight this time of year. We met up with Chris & Kendra Weaver as they crested the trail from the bottom of the gorge! They hiked from the West Rim, down the valley across the creek and up to the visitor’s center. I’m a biker, not a hiker! See ya later. We continued on our way, heading west on 6 to Galeton and then south on 144 to Renovo. In Renovo we headed east to visit Hyner Point State Park where we hoped to see some hang gliders. Not only did we not see any hang gliders, but we had to follow two cruisers up the mountain at a snails pace! I pity those guys. The view from Hyner Point was a bit hazy but still a very impressive view of the valley and the Susquehanna River below. We took a few pictures and headed back down the mountain, thank goodness the cruiser guys had left a good bit ahead of us. We headed toward route 414 and the Pine Creek Gorge. Did I mention those cruiser guys that left before us? (Passed them a few Page 6
miles down the road from Hyner Point). Our ride up 414 through the gorge was pleasant, with little traffic and some beautiful scenery. A stop at the Slate Run store got us some refreshments and a few souvenirs. I took the optional trip to the Oregon Hill winery while the rest of the group headed back to the campground. They didn’t want to miss the pig roast! I knew they wouldn’t run out of food and needed some Mountain Red to fill the openings in the wine rack. When I returned to the campground I noticed one tent gone! Steve and Sue gone? With out saying goodbye? No, but like the Jefferson’s they moved on up! Not to the East Side, but to the Cabins on the hill! We know who’s in charge of that family, don’t we! I had time to freshen up a bit before joining in on the pig roast. Did I mention that they charged $5.00 each for the feast and had a nice keg of Michelob for us too! The food was great and there was lots of it. No one left hungry, in fact most left with “I’m gonna burst” look. The temperature was a bit warmer than the first night but again we found most of the gang around the fire as night wore on. Chris Weaver did his best to keep the COG tradition of building a big fire. When they start moving back it’s big enough! Sunday morning came early for some, with tents packed and bike running before 8:00AM! A bunch of over achievers I tell you. Those of us that weren’t up at the crack of dawn did get moving a bit later with most packed and on the road around 10:00. I stopped by the office on the way out to say thanks for a great weekend and I’m glad to report that we’ve been invited back, so watch next years schedule for the Wellsboro Campout.
N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S
Northeast Activity Schedule - view the online Event Calendar at: www.cog-online.org Repeating Events (ON) S. Central Ontario Get-Together Meet at 6:30 pm on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Mohawk Inn in Guelph. Join us for dinner and socializing. All Welcome. Located on the northwest corner of Hwy 401 at Guelph Line, exit 312, next to the Mohawk Raceway & Slots Entertainment Facility. 9230 Guelph Line, Campbellville, Ontario. 905.854.2277 (www.mohawkinn.com) Contact: Dave Clancy, davecla2@sympatico.ca or 905.389.7681. (PA) Meet Greet and Ride Sundays Meet Sundays at 10:00 am at Kings Restaurant located in Imperial, PA, located right off the Imperial exit of routes 22 & 30. We will decide a ride or destination with whoever attends, or I will have a route ready if we need it. Rides will begin the 1st week in April until the 1st week in Nov. If you have a ride idea, or need any additional info or directions contact Joe Cyprych 724.796.1401 or cyprych@windstream.net Hope to see you there.
Calendar of Events Snapshot (PA) Sunday Breakfast Ride, Cross Keys 10/12/08 - Meet for breakfast at 9 am At Cross Keys Diner. Restaurant is located at the intersection of US route 30 and route 94. The ride end at the Lincoln Diner in Gettysburg PA. Contact: Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 or fleming@qis.net (ME) Northeast Bar Harbor Fall Rally 10/16/08-10/19/08 - Kimball Terrace Inn, 10 Huntington Rd, Northeast Harbor, ME 800.454.6225 (www.kimballterraceinn.com) A block of 50 harbor-facing rooms, all with two double beds will be held until 9/10/2008. The rate is $95 (+tax) for a harbor-facing room. Book your room early. Call Kimball Terrance Inn directly to make reservations (mention Concours Owners Group). Deposit is one night's rate, and cancellation policy is one week before arrival. Member Rally fee $40; non-members $45. See rally registration form in Newsletter Issue 4 or the online Event Calendar at www.cog-online.org. Contact rally host Tony Shelver tshelver@hotmail.com or 603.520.0324
to let me know if you are definitely coming so we don't leave anyone in the lurch. tmcefah@aol.com 917-837-6634
(MD) The Buttersburg Inn Dessert Ride 11/16/08 - Meet at 10 am for brunch at Baugher’s Family Restaurant in Westminster MD, 289 West Main Street. Restaurant is located at the (NY) Monday Hudson Valley Hooky Ride intersection of main West Street and Route 31 on 10/27/08 - Join me on another Hudson Valley the west side of town. GPS N 39-35.091 W077Hooky Ride. We get to go have fun while others 00.655. I will have a ride about 85 miles long that are hard at work. Route sheets will be available, as will end at The Buttersburg Inn in Union Bridge is a lunch stop. We should be back in time to avoid MD for dessert. Contact: Russell Fleming 410-374the after school traffic. Meeting point is the Somers 9687 or fleming@qis.net 7/11 on Rt100, off I-684 exit 6. Contact: Mike Flynn keltwolf@optonline.net or 914.263.5440 (VA) Holiday Lunch at the Beach 12/13/08 - For some awesome seafood, join Kurt & (DE) The Chunk Yer Punkins Ride is Back! Sue for lunch at the Dockside Restaurant, 1787 11/02/08 - After a four-year absence, I feel the time Castlewood Drive, Colonial Beach, VA, 804-224is right to resurrect this weekend-after-Halloween 8726, www.dockside-blueheron.com. From ride. But there's a twist... Instead of riding to the wherever you are, make your own route and plan to World Championship Punkin Chunkin', which has arrive between 11:30 and 12. The restaurant is at grown into a huge (and by some accounts, unruly) the southernmost point of Colonial Beach, adjacent weekend event, we'll find decent roads to ride to the Colonial Beach Yacht Center & Marina. anywhere except the Punkin Chunkin'! Heck, this Visit Dockside's website for more information as idea may even convince my wife to ride along!! :-) well as a look at their menu. Kurt & Sue Anyhow, quite a few good (IE: curvy/twisty) roads Nordstrom ironhorsefun@mindspring.com or can be found on the upper DelMarVa peninsula, 540.582.9414 and on into Southeastern PA. The plan is to explore some of these roads, find a "Mom-and-Pop"-type (WV) Dog Days Rally, Arbovale, WV place for lunch, ride some more, then stop 08/07/09-08/09/09 - This rally will be held at the somewhere to check out potential "punkin Boyer Station Motel, Restaurant and Campground, targets" (like maybe the whirlybirds at the (www.boyerstation.com) located near the American Helicopter Museum, f'rinstance). Meet confluence of Routes 28 & 92. The motel has about Sunday, November 2nd, at 08:00 for breakfast at 20 rooms (definitely not the Hilton) and the the Crossroads Restaurant, Naamans Road at I-95. campground has water and electric hookups, picnic Admission fee (purely optional) is a one-to-twotables at each site, hot showers with private pound pumpkin. :-) We'll be hitting the road dressing rooms, flush toilets (with privacy), sewer sometime between 09:00 and 09:30. Details to hookups for those with a land yacht, dump station, follow. Contact Bob Chappell playground and more. Grocery stores and gas Cog1283@Comcast.net or 302-791-0582 nearby. Boyer Station is located in beautiful Pocahontas County surrounded by the (VA) “Brrrrrrrrrrr Ride” Monongahela National Forest. Majestic mountains, 11/07/08 - 11/09/08 - Bundle up and point your scenic vistas, beautiful forests, and nary a straight headlight toward the Natural Bridge KOA road offer an unlimited variety of ways to spend an campground where we will gather on FRI & SAT unforgettable three days with your fellow Coggers. night to poke fires and partake of COG fellowship. Complete details coming. Any questions or We will meet for breakfast 8:00 AM Saturday. comments please contact Jason Kaplitz: After breakfast we will ride some favorite scenic cog62@kaplitz.com or 814.535.8669 roads before returning to the KOA. For those not wanting to camp, cabins are available at the KOA. (PA) Northeast Fall Rally, Wellsboro Call 540.291.2770 to reserve one. 09/24/09-09/27/09 - Wellsboro, PA has proven to (www.koakampgrounds.com/where/va/46144.htm) be a great location for past NE Regional rallies and Motels in the area are: Fancy Hill Motel, 4852 S. we decided to try it in the fall this time. It's central Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 540.291.2143; location is an easy day ride for many members and Natural Bridge Inn & Conference Center, Natural offers great riding and sightseeing at an affordable Bridge, VA 540.291.2121; Red Mill Inn, 50 South price. The host town of Wellsboro is located in Red mill Road, Natural Bridge, VA 540.291.1704; north central PA, along the famous RT 6 corridor, Budget Inn, I-81 Ext 180 US RT 11, Natural not far from New York State's Finger Lake Region, Bridge, VA 540.291.2896. and is abundant with museums, wineries, terrific Contact: Kurt & Sue Nordstrom 540.582.9414 or scenery, and great roads. Complete details coming. ironhorsefun@mindspring Russell Fleming at Contact Jason Kaplitz, cog62@kaplitz.com or (410) 374-9687 or fleming@qis.net 814.535.8669.
(VA) Fall Foliage Ride/Camp, Meadows of Dan 10/17/08-10/19/08 - We will meet at Willville Motorcycle Camp just off milepost 178 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Meadows of Dan, VA on Friday night. www.willvillebikecamp.com Saturday we'll have breakfast at Meadows of Dan (a couple of good restaurants there) at 8:00 a.m. and head out to ride through the pretty area. Hardtop lodging is available at the Blue Ridge Motel (540.952.2244) on Route 58 at Meadows of Dan. Have a safe ride (CT) Tuesday Night meet and greet dinner to Willville! Kurt & Sue Nordstrom 11/11/08 - Meet 6:30 PM Will be at Verona ironhorsefun@mindspring.com or 540.582.9414 Pizzeria, (www.verona-pizzeria.com) 2211 (NJ) Terry’s Catskill Ramble Meriden Waterbury Rd, Marion (Southington), CT. Verona Pizzeria features wood fired, brick oven, 10/25/08 - (rain date 11/1/08) Meet for breakfast thin crust pizza and was voted #1 in Southington. between 7:00-8:00AM at the Cracker Barrel off From I-84, Exit 28, turn Left, Verona Pizzeria will I-80 exit 30 (172 Howard Blvd.Mt. Arlington, be on the right. Contact Norm Walton 973.398.8404). Then we are on the road and will ride through northern NJ and the Catskills. Call me ctaad@live.com or 860.836.5162 ISSUE 5, 2008
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Our Newest Northeast Area Members (since the last newsletter) Ed Mello, #8254 Cape Charles, VA
Ron Duchaine, #8436 Virginia Beach, VA
John Moretz, #8462 Chesapeake Beach, MD
David Vannucci, #8488 Greensburg, PA
John Kuester, #8416 Ocean Grove, NJ
Marc Hering, #8442 Jersey City, NJ
Marc Labrie, #8465 Moncton, NB Canada
Thomas & Ann Kerrigan, #8497 East Bridgewater, MA
Charles Webb, #8418 Baltimore, MD
Jim Ansbro, #8443 Newtown, PA
Jack Kim, #8467 Chicopee, MA
Dan McGrogan, #8498 Pittsburgh, PA
Paul Reed, #8424 Gatineau, PQ Canada
Daniel Thibert, #8447 Leominster, MA
Oliver Coolidge, #8471 West Ossipee, NH
Louis Allen, #8504 Bedminster, NJ
Phil Yarina, #8431 Johnstown, PA
Mike Montville, #8457 Harrisburg, PA
Paul Lemieux, #8473 Foxboro, MA
Anthony Korpacz, #I-8433 (Amsoil) Paul Iltchenko, #8459 Waterbury, CT Round Hill, VA
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Robert Rudy, #8474 Potomac, MD
N O R T H E A S T A R E A NE W S