2014 - Issue #4 - Fall
COGnitions Random thoughts and ramblings from your Area Director Hopefully everyone has had a great summer and looking forward to some fun COG NE fall activities. Unfortunately, I needed to take a pass on many activities this year including the “Twistin‟ through the Notch” Fall Rally in NH and the Annual Mountain State Weekend. I‟m hoping work & family responsibilities will lighten up next year, leaving more time for the fun stuff. It was great to see many of you at the national rally in Johnson City, TN. More than just another annual club national event, this year was more special because it marks 25 years of COG and the first grand joint effort between the Northeast and Southeast areas. This really came through in the event and the fantastic end result of almost 3 years effort by the rally committee, team coordinators, and all the volunteers who participated in the planning and execution of the event. The rally was a record breaker; most attendees (over 500), more seminars, activities, and vendors. We had a celebrity and other guest visitors from AMA. Thanks to all the Northeast members who had a hand in making this an enjoyable rally. If you were unable to make it this year, check out the info for the 2015 rally in Cortez, CO. To all the new Northeast Area members – WELCOME. Our area gained 28 new members since the last newsletter in July. Presently the NE Area membership is 587 members + 132 associates. These are strong numbers considering the club total of 1948 members + 368 associates. Get out to a club activity. There are still several on the schedule from now until the end of the year. We have a great membership and it is much more fun and inviting to meet others from COG in person rather than remaining locked away in the cold, virtual, online world. If there is no activity near you, contact me and we can discuss how easy it is to set up a meet & greet or other club activity. While on the subject of club activities… Congrats & kudos to Greg & Tracey Habel. They just wrapped up the “Twistin‟ through the Notch” Fall Rally held in Lincoln NH. This was their first time as rally hosts and based on the reports from attendees, they ran the event like seasoned pros. Way to go!!
ule Event Sched on Page 9! photo courtesy Bob Barbanti #7134
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
New Members First things first, a warm welcome to a huge list of our Newest NE area COG members!
Poughkeepsie, NY Edward Winiarski #11649 Cobourg, ON Simon Haworth #11652 St. Catharines, ON Chris Bernard #11654 Damariscotta, ME Alan McKinnon #11655 Lovettsville, VA Michael Brown #11658 White River Junction, VT Kendall Gilbert #11659 Thorne, ON Danny Turner #11667 Henrico, VA Gregory Lillyman #11671 South Portland, ME John Plante #11673 Sinking Spring, PA Daniel Scott #11674 Elora, ON Tim King #11677 North Providence, RI Michael Romano #11680 Charleston, WV Mike Walker #11683
Coventry, CT Brian Dutton #11685 Warminster, PA Gary Maley #11687 Irvington, NJ Darryl Abernathy #11688 Annapolis, MD David Anderson #11689 Frederick, MD Paul Macpherson #11699 Ridgeway, ON Gregg Cousins #11702 Wakefield, MA Douglas Donald #11703 Clarksburg, WV Scott Tharp #11704 Shohola, PA Tyler Germann #11706 Elkridge, MD Nathan Houston #11717 Quispamsis, NB John Mee #11718 New Oxford, PA Rex Scott #11721 Scaggsville, MD Wes Hancock #11730 Laval, PQ Gianni Marricco COG#Pending
A Happy Group at the Twistin’ Through the Notch Rally — September 11th – 14th at Woodward’s Resort in Lincoln, NH
Editor’s Corner NORTHEAST AREA NEWS is published 5-6 times a year for Northeast Area members of the Concours Owners Group. Submissions are welcomed and members are encouraged to share their COG experiences. Email: NECOGEditor@gmail.com Snail Mail: Tim Anderson, 1040 Ocean Avenue, New London, CT 06320.
© 2014 Concours Owners Group
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Tim Anderson #9470 The Event Schedule for the remainder of the year is shrinking but there is still lots of fantastic riding weather to enjoy! Lots of good stories in this issue of recent rides, rallies and get togethers. I‟ve not made it to as many COG events as I had hoped, but I spread my time across several riding groups and also CART and PCA autocross events. One bucket list event this summer was a motorcycle Track Day at the new road course at Thompson Mo-
tosports Park. It was a great experience, both educational and thrilling. And yes, I did this on my C14, which performed superbly. In the intermediate group, I was on pace with the other riders on dedicated track day sport bikes, and passed quite a few of them!
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST News from your Assistant Area Directors (complete list of AADs on back page) NY/NJ Metro Area Terry Faherty #792 Greetings to all! We're headed to my favorite riding season, the fall. Cool temps make for some great riding, just don't forget to pack the electrics… just in case! Well my North Jersey/Catskills Ramble finally got off the ground on the third try after some crappy morning weather did in the first two attempts. On Saturday, August 9th, myself, three riders and one passenger, took advantage of some darn fine weather and wended our way west and north from our rendezvous point at the Quickcheck off of Exit 30 of I-80. We zigzagged our way eventually passing through Port Jervis onto Hawks Nest, with a nice loop up into the Catskills. We took Rte. 55 back down to Rte. 97, with a quick photo stop at Hawks Nest.
would love to go but the week before (next weekend as I write this) I'm heading to Baltimore for my nephew‟s wedding. It definitely is taking a chunk out of the old checkbook to say the least. Knowing Greg and Tracy and their gang of merry helpers it's gonna be one heck of a shindig! You all have to enjoy the roads for me, and Scott, Cigarsky and Outback John, burn one for me! Take care all and ride safe!
CT, RI Brian & Andrea Felice #9125 Hope everyone has enjoyed some great riding, with the wonderful July & August weather we had here in the northeast. Our last meet & greet took us into Willimantic, CT for a nice lunch.
Meet & Greet in Willimantic, CT
Hawks Nest Lookout on Rte. 97, always a great view of the Delaware River Valley
We then sought sustenance at Arlene and Tom's Restaurant back in Port Jervis. Turned out to be a nice 112 mile loop with light traffic and everyone enjoyed the day with no mishaps or Imperial entanglements, although the local constabulary was present on Hawk's Nest. Thanks to all for coming out. Some folks who couldn't make the rescheduled date would like a replay so I'll see if I can sneak one in before the season is over. Unfortunately I won't be able to make the Fall Rally. I haven't been to this area in a long time and
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Unfortunately, it was after a small fender bender. A fellow rider did not see eye to eye with us on the appropriate time to go, after stopping at an intersection. Though we were delayed after having to wait for police & paperwork, since there was a fair amount of broken plastic in the road, all parties walked away unscathed, so we chalk it up to “stuff happens”. It is a reminder though to all those participating in group riding, no matter how good or long we‟ve been riding, we can never be too careful. Please remember:
And always be sure the person behind you is still there!
We were able to get to our lunch in spite of the delay and had a great group of attendees. A number of folks then continued on with us for a lovely ride through parts of CT ending in at the Vanilla Bean. Thanks to Lori Freiler for the photos she took of the gang there. As we still have family staying with us, we were not able to schedule a September M&G, but we look forward to seeing a bunch of you in NH! As always, if you have a restaurant you would like to recommend, a favorite route to ride and let‟s not forget a great place for ice cream, in the CT/RI area be sure to shoot us an email, with your suggestions. Looking forward to seeing you all soon!
MA, ME, NH, VTGreg & Tracey Habel # 7010/7010A Wow! Where has the time gone? I can‟t believe we are headed into October. What a wild ride it has been this summer with such great events. This year has been one of many celebrations for me and 25 is the common denominator. I have celebrated my 25th Wedding anniversary to my best friend, my 25th Anniversary at work, and the 25th National of COG. I will have a hard time beating that record anytime soon. There has been a lot to do over the past few months since the National. On July 19th, Kevin Martin led a MA State Parks ride which included a stop at the beautiful Natural Bridge State Park to view
Always use a stagger formation, never come up aside another rider Always keep a good distance from the rider in front of you Always be ready and have the whole lane with room to maneuver in case of an emergency and give your riding companions the same
Mt. Washington conquered! (l to r): Chris Dupuis, Michael Benjamin, Bill Billig, and George Ross
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST (continued from page 3) the only naturally formed white marble arch and man-made white marble dam in North America. We had lunch at the historic turn of the century Freight Yard Pub in North Adams, and then it was off to the Western Gateway Heritage State Park ending in an ascent to the highest mountain in MA, Mt. Greylock. July 25-26th was a no frills camping overnighter at Clarksburg State Park hosted by Greg with a ride on Saturday into VT with folks from MA and NJ. On Saturday, August 30th Kevin Martin led a ride to the White Mountains which took the group up through the gorgeous White Mountain National Forest, into North Conway, a stop at the Mt. Washington Hotel Overlook on Rte. 302, and lunch at Peg‟s Place in N. Woodstock, NH, just a few miles from the Fall Rally resort.
Michael Benjamin at the summit!
Greg & I hosted our first rally on September 11-14th at Woodward‟s Resort in Lincoln, NH at the base of the breathtaking Franconia Notch. We had lots of fun hosting and really enjoyed spending time with everyone, old friends and new. For all the details, see the full article on page 7.
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We have 2 more rides on the calendar for the season. Kevin Martin will be hosting his annual Petey‟s Seafood ride on Saturday September 27th and Ed Dyer will host his first Fall Foliage ride on October 11th. Ed‟s ride will start out with lunch at the Four Leaf Clover Restaurant in Bernardston Village, MA with an afternoon self guided journey following lunch. Full details can be found on the calendar. Our End of Year Social will be on Saturday, November 8th for lunch. Details on time and location are still in the works, so keep your eye on the calendar as we hope to have everything worked out in the next couple of weeks. The End of Year Social is a great event to review and reminisce about the year‟s events. We also use this time to look ahead and put some ideas down for the planning of next year‟s rides/events. So don your thinking caps and join the fun! Please be sure to register on-line at on the NE events calendar at www.cogonline.org, if you plan to attend an event. This will help us to make reservations for lunch and plan accordingly to keep the ride group size at a safe number. See you soon.
NY (Hudson Valley NW) Ben & Abbe Otunu, #8594 Abbe and I assumed the leadership role for the Hudson Valley area in July after returning from the COG National in Johnson City, TN. We hope to build on the great tradition established by Bob Barbanti. This summer has been fantastic for riding. We never saw any 100 degree temperature days; the hottest days were barely in the 90s. We invite all COG members new and old, far or near to include this region in your motorcycle ride bucket list if you haven‟t done so already. The area has a wide selection of uncongested and scenic roads covering hundreds miles through mountains, rivers, lakes and reservoirs. You can either explore the area on your own or join us on one of our monthly rides. You may also email or call us for road recommendations.
Our first official event as co-AADs was the Upper Delaware River ride to Tick Tocks in Honesdale, PA on August 23rd. The ride started from the Pilot Service Center in Newburg, NY. We were joined by Fred Whitaker and Wayne Sikorski. Wayne rode over 400 miles round trip from his home in southern New Jersey. The 180 mile route took us through numerous scenic roads along the Upper Delaware and Lackawaxen Rivers. Both rivers were once major transportation corridors from around 1825 to the early 1900s. Their main business was transporting coal from mines in north central and north eastern Pennsylvania to the Hudson River, and down to New York City. There are still a few remaining historical landmarks along the river and the old canal systems that are worth visiting such as the Roebling Bridge. The ride also took us through Forestburgh, Narrowsburg, Eldred, Rio Reservoir Dam, and Lake Wallenpaupack with a few photo opportunities along the way.
Abbe Otunu enjoying a break at the Rio Reservoir Dam
For the most part, the roads were good and ride pace was moderate. We hit a couple of bumpy sections on Rte. 97 and along the service roads around the Rio Reservoir Dam. The pay-off for the bumpy roads was the beautiful view from the dam. We came across one unexpected road closure about 80 miles into the ride along River Lackawaxen tow path. As it turned out, the detour offered better twisties than the original route. We arrived at Tick Tocks slightly ahead of schedule due to the faster detour route. Lunch was nice and relaxed and everybody had a good time. Although, I thought my ”Cluck Cluck 5 Buck” chicken tasted better on the day we test
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST (continued from page 4) rode the route. Like the name says, there are clocks all over this place, all kind of clocks. Overall, the restaurant was OK, with plenty of room for large groups and a dining area that is separated from the bar. The ride back was at a faster pace as we stayed off utility service roads and took mostly county roads to Port Jervis. At Port Jervis we said bye-bye to Ciger Wayne as he split from us and headed south on Rte. 209 towards New Jersey. Wayne somehow managed to catch up with a band of rain close to his house after avoiding rain all day long. We continued north on Rte. 6 to Orange County Rte. 12, to the Onion fields of Warwick and Apple Orchards of Pineland disrupted every few miles by a dairy farm. The ride ended at the Quick Chek Gas and Convenience Center in Goshen, NY where Fred Whitaker headed home and we continued to West Point Military Academy Museum. Next events: September 20 – Meet & Greet in Valatie, NY at Main Street Café. October 4 – Meet & Greet at Hunter Mountain, NY for the joint Max BMW and Oktoberfest festivities. November – Date TBD, Ride to Eat at Heartbreak Hotel, Jefferson NY.
was a great start to the season. Then for a great finish Jeannie and I headed out in the pouring rain to Trenton to meet with some fellow COGers for a weekend ride hosted by two of the nicest people you could meet. Peter and Debbie Jackson hosted this event at their home in Trenton. We arrived around 9:30 and were introduced to all present and offered a coffee. Jeannie and I had never met anyone there, but were treated like long-time friends, what a great group. They were watching the weather radar and it looked like a break in the rain was going to give us a window to get north and be into sun and fun riding for the rest of the day. Peter had planned a great route that would take most of the day and then end at their home for a Barbeque. We headed out and about 30 miles into the ride there was an accident. Our host Peter went down in a corner, and everyone went into high gear to get him the help he needed. After he left for the hospital we waited for a tow truck for his beloved Connie got it loaded and sent home. This event and what accrued, and just how everyone there worked together, showed me the reason COG is such a great group. We got word Peter had sustained a broken shoulder and was being kept at the hospital for a while, so a few of us took a little ride then returned to the house where others had started to prepare supper. They had the chicken wings going on the bar-b and we all sat around eating, talking and having a good time but waiting for reports from the hospital. When Debbie
December 13 – International Motorcycle Show - Meet, Greet & Eat, location TBD.
ON (Eastern) Ken Fader #8534 Hi from Eastern Ontario. It seems like the season just got started, then suddenly we are heading into fall and the riding days are numbered. At least I manage to make the 25th anniversary National in Johnson City and meet a lot of fellow COGers, and ride some fantastic roads. Thank you to all who worked so hard on this event, you did a great job and it
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Delicious food at Peter and Debbie Jackson’s
came home to all our surprise, Peter was with her, so he joined us for some food and drink as well. Although we hadn‟t planned to stay over we were so welcomed by our hosts that we did, and I am glad we did. The next morning Peter and Debbie prepared a great breakfast for all, broken shoulder and all. We then prepared for the days ride, only this time Peter and Debbie were following in their truck. We were all greeted to a beautiful sunny day, so off we went for a great ride through Prince Edward County (Picton). We enjoyed some great roads, through the park, along the beach, and even though I have ridden in this area before I saw things that I had missed, guess I need to do more exploring. We stopped at a vineyard were they make cider and we did some taste testing, just a little since we are riding, but did buy some to take home. We all then toured a few more roads, then stopped for lunch at Dave‟s Place, sitting on the patio. Lunch was good but the company of our new found friends was better. Although this weekend had some bumps, it was still great. The one thing this weekend did show was stated by our host when he said, now I know why the saying is, Join for the Bike, Stay for the People. What a great time I had, and I‟m sure everyone else did as well. Ride safe everyone.
Northeast MD and South Central PA Russell W. Fleming #599 The weather here in Maryland is starting to feel like fall, the days are hot and humid and the nights are cool and crisp with the crickets singing. In July Martha and I hosted the North South 17. For 2015 we are going back to June, even though the COG National is in June. If you can't make the National you have some place to go. There were only 24 participants here this year but there were four first timers and they all expect to return next year. Thanks to those who helped me pull this event off: Dwight Hoyal for mowing the grass, Wayne Tenney, John Lippy and my brother for setup of the canopies, tables and chairs, Jack Frederick and Chuck
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST (continued from page 5) Landins for helping cook on Friday, and John Lippy for laying out the dual sport ride. At the end of my column is a first timer's ride report by Steve Rutter. Sunday, August 3 our meet and greet at Wild Hog BQ in East Berlin, PA started cloudy with a chance of rain but 25 riders showed up for GOOD food. There were 12 COG members and friends that ride FJR's, BMW's and Honda's. After eating some headed home but others decided to do the ride with the sky looking ominous. There were four groups of riders that made it to the end for ice cream and each group had a rain story. The end was at Pine Grove Furnace which is the half way point of the Appalachian Trail where we talked to three hikers that came to eat ice cream and tell their story of 2 months of hiking the Appalachian Trail. On Sunday, August 24 the Sport Touring Camaraderie Ride had a good turnout with 28 motorcycles having 9 different rides to choose from. The group that rode with me included three other COG members and two BMW riders who were newbies but plan on coming back. We were lucky that the full 42 miles of Rte. 235 was mostly fresh blacktop and very little traffic, allowing a brisk pace. The next treat was the 28 miles of Rte. 74 coming back to Carlisle over two mountain passes - there was no traffic that slowed down our pace. The food and desserts at the Middlesex Diner were GREAT. October 12 is the Kawasaki C14 Riders and Friend‟s Ride, see page 8 for more info. At this time I am working the 2015 ride schedule and am thinking about adding a lunch ride and a ride and camp for the night. If you would like a ride in your area step up and help and we will make it happen. Already we have a The BIG Chill Meet & Greet hosted by Jack Frederick, on Sunday, January 25, 50 Walden Court, York, PA. This event will be held indoors with a warm woodstove for comfort, no matter
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what the weather. North South Ride - By Steve Rutter I enjoy camping and attended one of Russell Fleming's well planned organized rides in the past. The North and South get together had the makings of a great weekend. Leading up to the weekend, I had a really stressful week at work. I have to say that once I started to pack and was on my way, I had a great weekend with nothing to do except eat, talk, sleep and ride. My mind was clear and complete relaxation set in. While a newbie at this long running event, I was quickly included and part of the gang. I recognized some COG members from the National and other rallies, and was amazed at how many were riding dual sport motorcycles. While Russell offered up a seemingly endless array of rides to choose from, we ended up picking our own route since I had the GPS and didn't want to lead again like I was doing at the National. Chuck Landis, Jack Bahn, and our new found friend Mike from WV set out Saturday morning for a 185 mile ride though western MD and southern PA. This seemed to be a perfect North South kind of ride. While there was a near zero chance for rain, we timed lunch perfectly as a strong shower passed through. We ended up losing Mike off the end of the pack, but it was all good as he found his way back to base with no problems. The entire weekend was relaxing, the food was great, and the camping in Russell's yard was scenic. As with all rally type events, it's a chance to swap stories, talk bikes and farkles with veterans, and enjoy conversations. The three day event just made it that much nicer since there was no rush to get to the start of the ride, and no worry about getting home. Thank you Russell and Martha! I look forward to next year's event!
ON (Greater Toronto Area) Dave Perkins #5932 Rider Down! Peter Jackson of the COG GTA East group put out the word in late July that he wanted to host a late summer ride from his home in Trenton, Ont. The ride was set for Sept 6 & 7. Saturday
would be a 450 km/280 mi loop through central Ontario, originating and ending at Peter's home; Sunday would be a 225 km-140 mi route through Prince Edward County to visit local wineries, cider mills, cheese factories, etc. Nine folks on eight bikes signed up. We left Peter's around 10 a.m. riding through Tweed on Ont 37, then turning east onto Ont 7. We then turned northeast onto CR 29 (Flinton Road). Peter was in the lead and was just accelerating out of a corner when he hit something slippery. The tar and chip surface was wet (it had rained) but there was also something else (possibly diesel). Peter and his '98 Connie slid a good 1015 meters. Ken Fader, COG AAD from Brockville, had a first aid kit and dressed a small cut on his elbow and wrapped him in a mylar heat blanket. Two of the group were on traffic control. 911 was called and the Ont Provincial Police (OPP) and ambulance showed up about 20-30 minutes later. I also called CAA (AAA to our American friends). Peter was ambulatory but in consider-
Hoping Peter’s C10 is back on the road soon!
able pain. He had landed hard on his left elbow. After he was loaded into the ambulance and statements were taken, Jim Lemke and Howard Nasgaard went back to Peter's to notify his wife Deb. Her first comment was "Just tell me he's alright!" Peter's friend Jeanot followed the ambulance while the rest of us waited for CAA. We assisted the driver in loading the Connie onto the flatbed and I accompanied it back to Peter's. There was nothing else for the rest to do so they went on an abridged ride and
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST (continued from page 6) agreed to meet later. When I got to Peter's with the tow truck, Jim, Howard, and Jeanot were there. Jim had already driven Deb to the hospital. We unloaded the bike noted that the damage was all on the left side: upper fairing (and possibly the subframe), mirror, foot peg, saddlebag lid, and antler plus rash on the lower fairing panel and wind deflector. We sat and talked for the remainder of the afternoon, getting regular updates from Deb. Jeanot had a bottle of 5-year old rum which we sipped at, chased by a beer or two. The four day trippers showed up about 6:30, just in time for dinner, which Jim, Howard, and Jeanot
Bloomfield, and the Sandbanks Winery on CR 33. We parted ways to the continued thanks and apologies from Peter! The weekend was a qualified success with a good outcome despite the potential tragedy. On a side note, one of our GTA East group, Anton Wallenburg, had hoped to attend but he was in Montreal at a memorial service for his niece Marika. Marika had succumbed to Cystic Fibrosis earlier in the summer while awaiting a double lung transplant. She was 28 and an avid motorcyclist. She was planning rides to the east coast and to Alaska, which, sometime in the near future, her Dad and Anton will be completing for her. In a very princely move, Peter arranged to donate the $150 he had collected from us for food to the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Marika's name. Good on ya', Peter!! And we still have that central Ontario loop to finish!! We'll post it in the spring and hope some of you can join us. We'll rededicate the ride to Marika...
2014 NE Fall Rally - Twistin’ through the
Event Reports Notch – Good Times! The ride group — Host Peter Jackson in the middle rear, to the left of the yellow jacket
had prepared under Deb's instruction. Peter was released, in good spirits, with a fractured left shoulder blade and ball on the shoulder joint. We got the full story while he had some chow and a beer: no surgery required but four to six weeks immobilized and three to four months of rehab. He thanked us profusely for everything and we split so he could get some rest. At Peter and Deb's insistence, breakfast and the Sunday ride were still on. Peter joined us with Deb driving their Ford Escape. The weather was perfect – a speck-less blue sky and temp about 15C/60F. Led by Jamie Cairns, a COGer from Belleville, we stopped at Lake On The Mountain (it sits 60 meters above Lake Ontario with no traceable source), a cider mill in Waupoos, lunch in
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Tracey and I had the pleasure of hosting our first rally, the 2014 Twistin‟ Through the Notch Rally from September 11th – 14th at the Woodward‟s Resort in Lincoln, NH, at the base of the Franconia Notch. Many Thanks to all who attended and especially: Steve Smith and Brian & Andrea Felice – for their guidance; Andrea Felice for being the Registration Princess; Pat & Sher Mulloy for Transportation of the goods; Kevin & John from Twisted Throttle for the rally prizes; Brian & Andrea for conducting Bug Splat; Bob Dallon for the unforgettable Bike „n Hike experience; Chris Franceschini, Sher & Pat Mulloy for assisting us with rally setup, and everyone else's encouragement! The resort staff was very accommodating and had a great sense of humor to boot (they even want us back)! Tracey and I selected the resort back in the winter while it was covered in snow and full of skiers, so we were delighted
to see just how beautiful the grounds were now with flowers blooming, a gorgeous duck pond with fish, and breath taking views of the surrounding mountains. After getting settled in on Wednesday, we headed across the street to the pizza place for dinner and began what was to be regular “entertainment” by the lady owner who had shall I say a rather gruff attitude. The food was quite delicious, as were the beverages. Thursday morning we set up Rally Central with the route print-outs, local attractions, maps, and registration. For lunch we headed down the street to the Woodstock Inn & Brewery, which had some great former history as a railroad station; we sat in the former passenger waiting room. Back at the resort, folks started to show up in droves throughout the afternoon; most only getting rained on for the last few miles of their trip. The much awaited re-kindling of friendships began, followed by dinner, registration, a meet „n greet in the pub/ lounge, and fun in the pool & hot tub. At the meet „n greet we were able to set up newbies with groups to go riding with on Friday and make all the necessary introductions. Let the festivities begin! Friday morning began as a tremendous
Greg Habel (left) providing GPS routes to Charlie Wheeler at Rally Central
day of beautiful sunshine! Some folks had ambitious plans to ride into Quebec, while others chose more local area activities like the Mount Washington auto road. I signed up to lead a group through the famous Rte. 112 (aka Kancamagus Highway), Rte. 113 (bumpy, but full of scenery), then lunch at the Country Cow Restaurant in Campton, NH. We had the pleasure of going over a newly reconstructed covered bridge that was nearly wiped out during the
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Event Reports (cont. from page 7) 2011 flood that also flooded the Country Cow‟s lower level. As we had lunch it was hard to imagine the river rising so high to flood out the area. Our group was pleasantly surprised when Steve & Sue Cerutti from the rally showed up to join us. After lunch we headed west on Rte. 118/25 then 25 to the VT border.
Admiring Loretta Medeiros's Can Am Spyder (l to r): Rich Beaudoin, unidentified, Chris Dupuis, and Rich’s wife.
These roads were in much better condition and beckoned a little more twisting of the throttle. During the ride we experienced our share of the ever unpredictable wild turkey families. “I‟m gonna cross, nope, yup, nope, yup, nope, and then yup and right in front of YOU!” Reduced speeds upon sightings helped us lower the “pucker” level. Rte. 10 North afforded increased throttle action due to straighter sections but was also quite scenic. Rte. 112 heading east from the VT border was a great way to end the ride since we were rewarded with truly majestic mountain views. Once we returned to the Resort, we joined others in the hot tub to discuss our many adventures. Friday night was more “entertainment” back at the pizza place where we joined other COGers for pizza, subs, insults, and more. The Friday night social was also well attended and afforded more laughs, camaraderie, new friendships, and technical discussions. Saturday morning was chilly (in the 40‟s) with minimal clouds. A perfect opportunity to wear electric gear (unless you didn‟t pack it like me!!).
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Tracey decided that electrics will be her next gear purchase. With a bit of rain predicted for late afternoon, folks headed out early to take it all in. Bob Dallon (our resident hiking expert) led three of us on a Bike „n Hike. New Hampshire is known for excellent hiking trails including sections of the 2,200 mile Appalachian Trail that goes from Georgia to Maine. We‟re talking completely undisturbed thousands of acres of hiking area; truly God‟s country. Bob‟s ride went on the Kanc ,Bear Mountain pass, and Rte. 302 before arriving at the Appalachian Club‟s Hyland Center (a stay-over for hikers) at Crawford Notch. There we hiked up a 1+ mile trail of moderate intensity to get to an absolutely breath-taking view over 1,000 feet above the highway at Mount Willard. No matter how many pictures I took of that overlook, it just did not capture the “wow” factor. No guardrails, just straight down, mountains in the distance, and the feeling of being free. We met some great people along the way including a couple that talked about their 1969 Woodstock experience, life, and the beautiful planet we live on. My sister Sherry, who is an avid dog lover, enjoyed greeting about 10 dogs as they hiked with their owners. Back at our bikes, we headed out to Bethlehem, NH for a quick meal, and the hot chicken soup and fries hit the spot for me! As usual in many COG rallies it‟s great to see other attendees along the route so we can wave “hi there” and chat later at the rally. Back at the resort we hung out with folks at Rally Central to kibitz before the group photo and banquet. It was great to see John & Kevin from Twisted Throttle who blended well into the mix of folks. At the banquet we welcomed everyone and did some basic announcements. Once again Chris Lawrence was in attendance; this time for his 42nd COG rally and proud of having 175,000 miles on his C10. Long time member Jerry Gowen wore his 1991 COG National Rally T-Shirt while noting he hasn‟t washed it since 1991 and that it still fit! For the meal, the sliced to order beef and breaded haddock were scrumptious as were the side dishes and strawberry dessert. After dessert Tracey and
I had COGers pick ticket numbers from a basket so that folks could come up to the prize table and select the prize of their choice. To everyone‟s delight a second round of more expensive prizes was drawn which gave everyone a second chance of winning. Thank you to all the sponsors who donated prizes: Murph‟s Kits, Whitehorse Gear, COG, Sher & Pat Mulloy, Brian & Andrea Felice, and Twisted Throttle. Following the banquet was a state by state giant Jenga challenge at the indoor pool which pitted the best of NY, RI, NH, and MA against each other in a nail biting competition. To add to the excitement, continued puns were introduced while handling of the wooden game pieces. Tracey and I wish to thank all of those attending for making our first rally hosting experience something wonderful and memorable. You enlighten our lives with time spent with you. Until next time…
Checking in at registration (l to r): Andrea Felice (the registration princess), Tracey Habel, Dave Fazzuoli, and unidentified
Start planning your 2015 Ride Events, & post them on the online calendar for inclusion in the Newsletter!
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
RIDE & EVENT SCHEDULE Time listed is START time. Visit www.cog-online.org for updates. (WV) Thu-Sun 25-28 September 12 PM Mountain State Weekend We will be heading to Elkins, WV for our 1st Mountain State Weekend. Elkins is located smack in the middle of some of the best riding roads on the east coast. Home base will be the Iron Road Inn, 357 Beverly Pike, Elkins, with a great rate of $75/night + tax. We will have a pay-your-own-way dinner next door at the Steer, a family style buffet. (NOTE: THE EVENT FEE WAS ELIMINATED AND THIS IS NOW A NO-FRILLS WEEKEND ACTIVITY) This a fantastic area to explore with great roads in any direction, which make this a must attend event. See full details online and on Page 10. JOE CYPRYCH, 724.796.1401, cyprych@windstream.net, or JASON KAPLITZ, 814.659.6865, cog62@kaplitz.com.
(NH) Fri 27 September 9:30 AM Petey’s Seafood Run Join Kevin for a Fall ride out to Rye Beach, NH for lunch at Petey’s Seafood Restaurant. Plan to meet at Bickfords,20 Nagog Park, in Acton for breakfast at 8 AM. Please gas up before breakfast as there isn’t a gas stop planned until the end of the ride. Leave on a group ride at 9:00 AM, up thru southern NH via RT-111 thru Kingston, NH, out along the coast stopping for lunch at Petey’s at 1323 Ocean Blvd (1A), Rye NH, 5 miles south of Portsmouth, NH, or 8 miles North of Hampton Beach. We should arrive at Petey’s around 12 PM for folks who want to meet at the lunch stop. KEVIN MARTIN, 978.459.6275 H.
(NY) Sat 4 October 11 AM PM Meet & Greet at Colors in the Catskills, Hunter Mountain, NY Not a COG event, but posted as a Meet & Greet since an increasing number of COG members attended over the past few years. Visit the Max BMW site for event details including free BMW demo rides on Saturday and Sunday. www.maxbmwmotorsport.com Award will be given to a COG member with the best looking Lederhosen. 64 Klein Ave, Hunter, NY. BEN OTUNU, 845.423.0373 H, 845.423.0373 M
the lunch location at the Four Leaf Clover, 19 South Street, Bernardston, MA, through the hill country of Bernardston, Leyden and Colrain ending up in Shelburne. The plan is for the ride to be self-guided using the linked route sheet to allow stops to take in the views, take pictures, etc. Ride is 30 miles, more or less with steep ascents and descents, stunning vistas, and farm scenes. There is one stretch of gravel road included. At the end, one may continue to Shelburne Falls/Buckland on the Deerfield River to the Bridge of Flowers and the Glacial Potholes. ED DYER, 701.201.4283
(MD) Sun 12 October 9 AM C14 Riders & Friends Ride Meet for breakfast at the Union Bridge Fire Hall, 18 West Locust Street, Union Bridge MD, for a 9 AM breakfast buffet. Route sheets will be provided for a 150-mile self guided ride that will end at East Berlin, 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. You will ride in MD and PA. If you want a copy of the ride in GPS format ahead of time contact me. RUSSELL FLEMING, 410.374.9687H, fleming@qis.net
(ON) Tue 14 October 6:00 PM South Central Ontario Meet & Greet 2nd Tuesday each month at Mohawk Inn, 9230 Guelph Lane, Campbellville, ON, just North of 401. All welcome, friends, wives, girl/boy friends. Many hungry people arrive earlier to get their dinner - road house food, salad, wings, burgers, fish & chips, etc. A mainly social function to meet other riders, shoot the breeze, plan rides. DAVE PERKINS, 416.691.2191 H, perkins43@rogers.com
(WV) Thurs-Sun 16-19 October 3 PM COG in Coal Country at Mullens, WV We return to Coal Country for excellent lodging, camping, food, and riding. Twin Falls State Park, POB 667. Thurs/Sun are travel days to/from this remote but beautiful state park. Excellent riding in all directions. Rooms are $87 at the recently remodeled Internet Lodge Room. This is high season for fall colors so make reservations NOW as it will fill up. Camping at $20-23, will fill up too. See COG website for details. PATRICK SPRAGUE, 540.743.4874H, 540.743.5132W, pesprague@comcast.net
(NY) Sat 18 October 11 AM Hudson Valley Meet & Greet Location for this month is TBD. BEN OTUNU, 845.423.0373H
(MA) Sat 11 October 12 PM Foliage Run and Meet & Greet
(ON) Mon 20 October 6:30 PM GTA East - Meet & Greet
Come enjoy a foliage ride on Columbus Day weekend away from the ‘leaf-peeper’ clogged Mohawk Trail. The ride will run from
3rd Monday EVERY MONTH at Tartan Tavern, 555 Rossland Road East. All welcome, members or not - friends, wives, girl/boy
2014 - Issue #4 – Fall
friends. Arrive early to kick tires and tell lies in the parking lot (weather permitting) Menu is good pub grub. A social function to meet other riders, discuss tech issues, shoot the breeze, and plan rides. DAVE PERKINS, 416.691.2191 H, perkins43@rogers.com
(VA) Sat 25 October 6 PM Meet & Eat, Williamsburg, VA Come and join us at Red Hot & Blue, 1622 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA for a fun get together. We're running out of daylight, so this is the last Meet & Eat for the year. Come on out! TIM STEELE, 540.649.7007H, svo68@hotmail.com.
(VA) Fri 7 November 5 PM Brrrrrrrr Ride, Natural Bridge, VA See online calendar for full details. PATRICK SPRAGUE, 540.743.4874H, 540.743.5132W, pesprague@comcast.net
(ON) Tue 11 November 6:30 PM South Central Ont. Meet (see 14 Oct. info) (NY) Sat 15 November 11 AM Hudson Valley Meet & Greet Location for this month is TBD. BEN OTUNU, 845.423.0373H
(ON) Mon 17 November 6:30 PM GTA East - Meet & Greet (see 20 Oct. info) (ON) Tue 9 December 6:30 PM South Central Ont. Meet (see 14 Oct. info) (NY) Fri-Sun 12-14 December International Motorcycle Show SAT is the COG lunch. Check out the new models and accessories at this annual extravaganza! www.motorcycleshows.com
(VA) Sun 14 December 8:30 AM Williamsburg Ride for Pancakes We'll meet again at the Capitol Pancake House at 802 Capitol Landing Road, Williamsburg, VA. Phone 757-564-1238. Great pancakes and other breakfast fare. Weather permitting, we'll take a ride over the Northern Neck of VA, leaving the Capitol about 9:30 AM. Come on two or four wheels as the weather is a craps shoot in December. PATRICK SPRAGUE, 540.743.4874H, 540.743.5132W, pesprague@comcast.net
(ON) Mon 15 December 6:30 PM GTA East - Meet & Greet (see 20 Oct. info) (NY) Sat 20 December 11 AM Hudson Valley Meet & Greet Location for this month is TBD. BEN OTUNU, 845.423.0373H
(DC) Fri-Sun 9-11 January International Motorcycle Show Check out all the new models and accessories at this annual extravaganza! www.motorcycleshows.com
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Metro NY/NJ Terry Faherty #792 718-227-2099 tmcefah@aol.com NY (Long Island) Roger Mercer #8867 631-226-2853
Greg & Tracey Habel #7010
ensoniqdude@yahoo.com
508-444-2235 COG7010@verizon.net CT, RI Brian & Andrea Felice #9125, 401-828-3354 Bdfelice1@gmail.com Arfelice570@gmail.com
mercercarpentry@live.com
NY (Hudson Valley NW) Ben & Abbe Otunu #8594 845-423-0373 hvaad@yahoo.com NY (Central) Rob Romano #10584 607-227-3899 Stephen Strock #10396 315-308-0108 cogcny@gmail.com PA (Western) Joe Cyprych #4665 724-796-1401 cyprych@windstream.net
PA (North Central) Duane Shaffer #9189 570-726-4676 dkshaff@kcnet.org PA (SE) & NJ South Jim Ansbro #8443 215-805-0909 bluecon06@gmail.com New Jersey Chris Franceschini #9283
856-366-9430 sowieso@comcast.net DE, East MD Bob Chappell #1283 302-791-0582 cog1283@comcast.net Maryland Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 fleming@qis.net
VA/WV Pat Sprague #1887 540-743-5132 psprague@shentel.net ON (Greater Toronto Area) Dave Perkins #5932 416-691-2191 perkins43@rogers.com ON (Eastern) Ken Fader #8534 613-865-7995 kensc14@gmail.com Richard Beaudoin #9318 613-657-3294
sailor_rich@sympatico.ca QC (Montréal) Christian Dupuis #10098
NE AREA STAFF
Area Director (AD) Steve Smith #3184 203-720-7575 nead@cog-online.org Web Editor Wayne Geiser #4627 978-851-2710 geiserw@gmail.com Newsletter Editor Tim Anderson #9470 860-444-7544 NECOGEditor@gmail.com Assistant Area Directors: (AADs) VT, NH, ME, MA
450-427-0182 d1user@mac.com
Attention Newsletter ‘Hard Copy’ Mail Subscribers! The Postal Service recently raised their rates. We still have many NE members signed up to receive mailed hard copies. If you can receive and view your Newsletter online instead of by mail, please sign up for electronic delivery and help save our budgets for ride events! Its easy to sign up! Here‟s how: 1.
Go to www.cog-online.org, Select the „Member Area‟ tab
2.
Log in with your username and password
3.
Select the „My Info‟ tab
4.
In the top section, „General Information‟, next to „Area Newsletter By:‟ uncheck the „Hard Copy‟ box and check the „Email‟ box.
5.
You‟re done! Thanks for helping!
photo courtesy Kevin Martin #145
1st Mountain State Weekend — September 25-28, 2014 While August saw us trying to stay cool during the dog days of summer at Snowshoe, September will see us enjoying the Fall Foliage colors in Elkins WV. September 25th (early arrivals), 26th, 27th, and 28th (departure) 2014. Elkins is located smack in the middle of some of the best riding roads on the east coast. Our home base for this event will be the Iron Road Inn which is a very nice hotel and they gave us a great rate of $75.00/night (+tax). We will have a pay-your-ownway group dinner next door at the Steer, a family style buffet. (NOTE: THE EVENT FEE WAS ELIMINATED AND THIS IS NOW A NO -FRILLS WEEKEND ACTIVITY) Elkins is just a short ride away from Canaan Valley, were we’ve been many times and many of us have a favorite route or two! It’s a short run to Snowshoe, Cass or Marlinton with great roads to get there on. This time of year in WV is beautiful, offering the scenic beauty of New England without the cost or the traffic! Check in with Randolph County Tourism to help you plan your trip. Book your rooms, pack your bags and get started to Elkins and the Fall riding season. Contact Joseph Cyprych cyprych@windstream.net or Jason Kaplitz cog62@kaplitz.com for more info.
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2014 - Issue #4 – Fall