2019 - Issue # 2
COGnitions:
Ramblings from the Northeast Area Director Spring riding season is here!! Check out the activity listing in this issue and visit the online calendar for the most up-to-date information for changes and cancellations. The Spring Fling Rally is May 16-19. I am looking forward to this event in Matamoras, PA. It’s not too late to register, but the room discount and early rally fee discount have ended. Steve Smith #3184 The COG “Keystone” National Rally is the club’s big summer 2019 event the week of July 22-26. There should be no “too far” excuses this year from Northeast Area members as it is being hosted by our area in Williamsport, PA. See Jason’s rally update in this issue or visit the club website for details.
Fall Rally 2019 will be at a waterfront motel in Alexandria Bay, NY September 19-22. Registration is open and you can book rooms as well. It is with much regret that I report that Greg Puterbaugh will be stepping down as AAD after the national rally this July. Greg has been co-AAD for MD-PA region, along with Steve Rutter, since 2016. I am actively seeking a replacement now so the new person can have some time to shadow Greg. The person will not be in it alone as Steve Rutter will still be on board to help. If you are a member in southeast PA or northeast MD and would like to help, now would be a good time to raise your hand. Connecticut & Rhode Island have been without an AAD for several years. I have tried to fill the role in the interim, but I realize it is too much for me to take on with area director and other club duties. We have great members who have and will continue to organize activities, but this region needs an AAD to help provide the focus it deserves. This can be one or two people who split the tasks, and I’m here to help as needed. There are other regions that can use representation and someone to help develop member activity. Many hands make a lighter load. Team up with other members as co-AAD to cover a region or a city. It’s all up to you. Put in as much or as little effort as you are able. However, there is an expectation you will be more than just a name on a list and will help the team fulfill the club’s goal. That’s all for now. Ride safe
photo courtesy Bob Barbanti #7134
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS Leslie Downing Barbara King Roy Noepel First things first, a warm Douglas Zinn welcome to our Newest NE Area COG members! Robert Dippy Andrew Shankman John Simpson Linda Simpson John Collins Mike Andrews Clyde Woodruff Zachary Brydges
New Members
12122A 12810A 12928 12929 12935 12936 12937 12937A 12940 12945 12950 12959
Parry Sound, ON Norfolk, MA Norwood, MA Bellmore, NY Norristown, PA Mount Airy, MD Elmira, NY Elmira, NY Dundee, NY Ellicott City, MD Newton, NH Oxford Mills, ON
James P. Geary Kevin OKeefe Barry Carl Sue Marshall
12962 12963 12965 8283A
Hooksett, NH Derry, NH New City, NY St Clements, ON
Concours Owners Group 2019 Northeast Area Spring Fling Rally May 16 - 19, 2019 Matamoras, PA Kick off the 2019 riding season with your fellow COGger’s for what promises to be a fantastic season opener spring event. Working off a terrific suggestion from long time member Kevin Martin, the Spring Fling 2019 will return to Matamoras, PA. The rally location is near the borders of PA, NY, NJ along the Delaware River. This tri-state area location provides easy access to the Catskill Mountain, Delaware River Valley, and northern NJ riding. Ride the short, but well-known section of RT 97 at The Hawk’s Nest. We will reuse all the great sample routes provided by members from the last rally here. The GPS and route sheets are available online now from the club website member library. There is a link on the rally web page. We will have limited copies of route sheets available. Print copies at home, if needed. Registration is still open. Register online at the event page on www.cog-online.org or register by mail. Rally Headquarters: Best Western Inn @ Hunt’s Landing, 120 Rt. 6 & 209 (570) 491-2400 www.bestwestern.com/innathuntslanding A block of rooms was being held and there should be rooms available, however the discounted room rate has expired. The hotel was recently completely renovated. Full hot breakfast and free WiFi included. Mention "Concours Owners Group 5/16/19" to get rooms in our block. The group buffet Dinner will be at the hotel on Saturday evening. SEE YOU AT SPRING FLING
Concours Owners Groupsm
NORTHEAST AREA NEWS Published 5 times a year for the Concours Owners Group and distributed to Northeast Area members. Past newsletters are archived in the club’s online member library at www.cog-online.org Also available at: issuu.com/cognortheast Written (most formats except Works) & photo (most formats) submissions are welcomed and members are encouraged to share their COG experiences. Please send to: Email: NECOGEditor@gmail.com Snail Mail: COG NE Newsletter c/o Maryann Geiser 139 Kennedy Rd Tewksbury MA 01876 © 1989-2019 Concours Owners Groupsm
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Editor’s Corner Welcome to Spring! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, flowers are in bloom and the warm weather is a welcome change. Well, in my mind anyway. The reality is that this spring has been cold, grey and wet—at least in this corner of the world. But, I’m trying to make the best of it, even though it means that I’ve only had the bike out once to get a new front tire. I’m had a great time catching up with COG friends at the tech session last week and am looking forward to the Spring Fling in PA in another few weeks. And the short term weather forecast is Maryann Geiser #4627A predicting sun and temps up to 70 next week, so there is always hope. In the mean time, take a look at the events on the calendar and start making plans. If you can’t ride yet, you can at least dream of riding. Maryann
2019 - Issue # 2
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Around the NORTHEAST News from your Assistant Area Directors (complete list of AADs on back page)
Metro NY, NJ
Greetings folks! Spring has (sort of) sprung and the season has begun. Unfortunately my day ride was a bust due to weather but let's hope things settle down for the Spring Fling in Matamoras. I'll be there with the proverbial bells on! Next up will Terry Faherty #792 be Americade in June so stay tuned to the forum for a possible day ride for those attending or at least a meet and greet. Then, before you know it, July is here and the National in Williamsport. It should be a great time so make those reservations and get registered. Let's have a great Summer! Keep the shiny side up and see you out there! Terry
MA, ME, NH, VT
contact us to volunteer to host a ride or event. We really love the diversity (hobbies, sports, culture, food) the club has that may spark interest in others. We hosted at Start of the Year Social on March 3rd at the Horseshoe Pub in Hudson, MA. Attendance was a bit down but the camaraderie was joyful for all. On March 31st we had a Meet and Greet at Lowell’s
On Saturday April 27th Pat and Sher Mulloy hosted the NE Spring Tech Session and Gear/ Part Swap in Monson, MA. Thank you once again for opening your home to COG members. We would also like to give a special thanks to Brian and Andrea Felice; Brian is our local C14 expert and Andrea helps out with the lunch and check-in etc. We had over 20 people attending, with a mix of C10’s, C14’s, Honda,
Restaurant in Mendon, MA but decided to skip the ride to the Vanilla Bean in Pomfret, CT due to inclement weather. It was great to see old and new faces; even a person without grey hair!
and a KLR, which was plenty of variety to wrench on. There were friends old and new as
Tracey and I are so happy to feel the Spring sun on our faces, the trees budding, flowers blooming, and birds chirping. I really enjoy spring time and the rejuvenation I feel; with urges to ride, ride, ride, ride. For 2019 so far Greg & Tracey Habel we’ve been tied #7010/7010A up with our jobs but are planning to host a few rides. Please, please, please
2019 - Issue # 2
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS (Around the Northeast - Continued from page 3)
Rutter will remain on the job. Please give him and the club all the support you can, and if any of you know of some fine roads and eateries that you would like to share with your fellow COGgers, please contact Steve or me for any help we can provide in putting a ride together and getting it on the event calendar. COG is, and has been, a great organization and will continue to be so with the support of its members. I’m looking forward to the First Sunday events in Ephrata, PA, riding to Jack & Deb's cabin in July, and National Rally in Williamsport. Happy trails to you! Greg
well as an International member in attendance! Boy, some folks will sure come a long way for some free coffee; muffins and lunch. The day was cold and raw but we kept the hot coffee flowing and served a nice hot lunch indoors so everyone could warm up. Thanks to all those who attended just for the conversation or to help others with their maintenance, and the ladies of COG who always lend a hand with the food preparation. You are the folks who truly make this such a wonderful event for our all. The few of us who put on this event could not do so successfully without the help of the members who just come to share their knowledge and help their fellow COGgers. Although Tracey and I are not attending the Spring Fling, we do look forward to seeing everyone at the National in July. Interested in helping us greet people at rally central upon arrival? Send us an email or call please. There’s still time for maintenance projects. Please take care of your bikes so they can continue to bring you enjoyment for years to come. And don’t forget to take care of yourself too! Greg & Tracey
South Central PA/MD
We're still awaiting the arrival of some good riding weather. Hopefully you folks that attend the Spring Fling in a couple of weeks will get to ride amongst all the May flowers that have been brought forth by the April showers. Sunshine Greg Puterbaugh reveals what a beautiful #6163 part of the world we live in, especially in the spring and fall. I'm sad to announce that, after the National Rally, I will be stepping down as co-AAD for the south central PA/ northern MD area. It has been a fun ride and an honor to serve during the past three years, but my time is up. The happy news is that the very capable Steve
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Atlantic Canada
Well spring has finally sprung, well sort of. I think most of you would agree that it was a another weird spring in the North East. My first ride on my C14 was on March 24th because I, just like every year, I couldn’t take it any more. April was a wet Claude Doucet #9011 month here in Atlantic Canada. In my neck of the woods we received 150% more than the usual rainfall for the month. Hopefully the sun will start to shine on a regular basis and I'll be able to log some time on my trusty Connie. The annual Bike Blessing in Truro, NS is almost here. It will be held on Saturday May 4th this year. I didn't think that I would be able to attend the blessing this year because of a family commitment, but things have changed so it's a go. Everyone is welcome to join me for a nice ride. Please register if you plan on attending. It's a good way to kick off the season. The event is rain or shine unless their forecasting heavy rains, sleet or snow. I'm sad that I'll miss the Spring Fling this year but ecstatic that I'm attending the National in Williamsport. The National will be a great event for several reasons. First off it's the 30th anniversary, secondly, my brother will be attending and thirdly, Pennsylvania has some great roads and attractions. My brother doesn't usually have the opportunity to do long trips so it should be a special experience. I planted the idea in late December and he's been getting more and more excited every since. I'm open to any ideas for rides, or helping organizing a ride. Send me an email or give me a call.
Eastern Ontario
I received a reminder last week that a newsletter article was due. The request came saying “I know you've all been out riding, so there is no excuse to not have something to share with all of us.” Well, yes, I have been out riding…. Once! Seems winter in eastern Ontario doesn’t Derek Pugh #11636 want to let go! I attended an earth week clean up yesterday and the temperature was 2C and we had snow falling! Not exactly motorcycle riding weather. At least not for me anyways! Ontario and Quebec is suffering from record setting flooding this spring. Many roads and bridges have been closed. House and property sandbagging has been going on for weeks. The Canadian Military has been called in to assist and an army of daily volunteers show up to help. I haven’t had the chance to get out volunteering yet but hoping to soon. But back the motorcycle ride… Two Sundays ago it was sunny and although not a warm day it was comfortable when layered up for a ride. The previous day was raining so in the comfort of my un-heated garage I did spring maintenance; fluids were checked, topped up or replaced as required. I did a thorough check of the bike and replaced my factory battery (figured 9 years is pushing it). Man did it feel great to be out again! I only had a short time to be out but the bike just eats up the distance. Made it home with a smile a mile wide. I put the bike back in the garage and that it where it has sat for the last two weeks. Weather (and work, but mostly weather) has kept it parked, but I am watching the weather page for the weather to improve so I can get out again and again. Again this year I will host a ride from Ottawa to Trenton where Eastern Ontario COG meets GTA COG at their annual tech day. Please watch the COG calendar for details. The past 2 years we have had great weather and I plan to make it 3 so please join me on June 1st. If anyone in Eastern Ontario would like to suggest a ride or get together please let me know and I will happy to work with you to get it set up! Happy riding, Derek
Ride safe and have fun! Claude
2019- Issue # 2
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
Event Reports Crab Cake Ride
and the differences between waterproof and water resistant. The roads and scenery were fantastic (if it could be seen), so this ride will be rescheduled so more can enjoy it. Steve Rutter co-AAD #9715
When Russell Fleming put this ride together last year his crystal ball was tuned in perfectly to the long range weather forecast. March 24th was possibly the nicest day of the year so far, and 27 riders took advantage of that to converge, from three locations, on a real nice seafood restaurant under the high bridge over the Chesapeake and Delaware canal in Chesapeake City, MD. Groups rode in from southern MD, Hanover, PA, and Marietta , PA, as well a few who came solo. 'Twas a very fine day! Haven't had that much fun since Santa came by. Greg Puterbaugh co-AAD #6163
Retirement, Cross Country Ride Report by Steven Peck [Part 3] The Trip Home Starting the trip back to Massachusetts, You might notice that my Givi dry bags do not look as full as they were a few weeks earlier. I found that I had packed too well when I started. Along the way that was no longer possible. When breaking camp I started to just stuff things back in the bags. That didn’t work for long. Especially when I would have to unpack to get my keys or phone or log book or what ever got packed at the bottom. The solution was to ship back home some dirty clothes and give some things away. The Pacific Coast Highway was on the way to the Napa Valley and a nice glass of wine. This was another one of those ideas that looked like a short day ride on the phone map. Riding up the pacific coast on a bright sunny day was as beautiful as it could be. And camping was perfect. I was using a 2 man tent. It was roomy enough, but I could not stand up in it. I brought a twin size air mattress which I would blow up each night with a small 12V air pump. The pump also worked to help get the camp fires blazing! Talking about blazing, in California you are required to pass a test and get a permit before having any kind of fire at Greg and Russell’s Favorite Roads Ride your campsite. You are also required to have a shovel. The forecast was not that great for Greg and Russell’s Back Yard of I had bought a camp shovel from Walmart, it was large Favorite Roads ride. Waking up Sunday morning, the radar showed the and heavy. I thought I could use it to pound in my tent obvious front rolling though with rain and temps in the lower 40’s. stake, NOT! One of the other items I researched was Knowing the curvy mountains roads, it was going to be an interesting ride. “bear” spray. My local camp store in Massachusetts Six hearty, never-say-quit hard-core riders rolled into the Dillsburg Sheetz told me it was considered a weapon and could not be in heavy rain nearly at the same time. We waited for more riders to roll in sold (this changed while I was traveling). I ended up at while hogging a couple of pumps for shelter, and no more riders showed. Harbor Freight and bought a camp hatchet. It is not Note that Greg and Russell’s Favorite Roads Ride will now be known as considered a weapon! Russell’s Favorite Roads, since someone was missing, likely dry and So my next challenge on the Pacific Coast Highway was an electronic sign laughing at us? Four regulars and two riders on their first COG ride set that was flashing the following message: out to take on the roads. It was challenging riding with the roads being relentlessly curved, that tested our exit and entry speed skills. Officially, HWY 1 Closed that rain blob on the radar passed through, but the day featured what can 20 Miles Ahead only be described as a relentless mist downpour. It was light enough to not be called rain, but heavy enough to keep us soaked and the roads No Detours challenging. Going over the mountain passes the temps dropped to 37. (Continued on page 6) The lunch at Skeeters was great with good conversation about rain gear
2019 - Issue # 2
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS at the potato bar! Nothing like a fresh baked Idaho potato stuffed with butter, sour cream, bacon and their own special sauce! Definitely 5 Star What’s an adventurer to do? I rating. was on a motorcycle, even if The potato really gave me energy and today was the end of 4 weeks. I had the road was bad, I could ride ridden 7,485 miles so the shoulder, I could ride far. I ate ice cream in though sand or maybe mud. Jackson Hole Wyoming. No not mud again. Only 20 The place was packed miles, what’s the worst, I’d with tourists. I ended have to ride back, no the day camping in the problem. Grand Teton National Yes the road was totally Park, $14.50 with my closed. Washed out to sea. national park pass. I They wouldn’t even let me look. On the plus side the 40 miles was some wanted to try staying in of the most wonderful riding on my trip so far. I later went on the net to the tee-pee, it was out see the satellite view of the cave in. It added many acres of land to the of my budget on this coast. Three months later the highway was re-opened. So now I have to trip. They were big! They had room for 6 or go back and do the whole thing. 8 people. Well, I found myself at a decision point. I had family and friends north of San Francisco. The detour and the back track would cost a day plus All the campers were warned that we were sharing the camp with hungry another day or two visiting. I was already behind because of the Florida animals that could smell much better than us. The brown lockers would storm and my dilly-dally riding style. It was time to turn right. Of course I protect our gear and food. I was almost afraid to fart! I was a good night was in the middle of California and would you believe it, no right turns in for a large campfire. sight. I keep looking right and all I saw was mountains. And more The scenery was unforgettable. I think route 16 from Wyoming into South mountains. And more mountains. Finally I turned right, well sort of. We Dakota was the most fun road. Lots of great curves with ups and downs. all know what a right turn is and what a left turn is, what do you call a turn So much fun. that goes almost straight up!? And up I This was the second week went. of May and there was still I had practiced for a ride almost straight up lots of snow along the side last year during bike day at Mount of the road. All that snow Washington in New Hampshire. It was a was not melting because it short ride up the mountain, the first 5 miles was in the 20s. Remember was scary, the rest terrifying. I found a I had an issue with packing? campsite in the mountains near a stream. Well, I had packed my The gates were closed, but I was able to dongle to connect my walk around the gate and found a nice site. What a great night’s sleep. heated jacket and gloves. I The sound of the rushing water made it hard to hear the growling bears was cold. and the howling wolves. The 2nd week of May! I’d Camping next to me was a young military couple on leave. They were been out for a whole month, only 2 weeks before I had to be back in MA. staying in a hammock tent strung between the trees. Oh, and they had With just over 7,800 miles traveled, I still had about 3,000 to go in just 14 lots of good food. I had gotten really good at boiling water, I never did Days. Not impossible, but I could not stop too much. burn it. I was eating a lot of instant oatmeal, hot and tasty. Bananas and I was thinking I should have taken more potatoes back in Idaho, I needed peanut butter was my staple diner. So when my neighbors offered fresh more energy. My ’06 Concours is carbureted and did not like the beef stew, I said YES! Of course the beautiful mountain scenery would elevations. I really noticed this when passing the trucks or going up a have to hold me, I was about to enter Nevada. grade. I80 in Nevada defines Super Slab. Once you pass Reno, there’s not much. Most exits only had one service, that one would have gas, then 25 Here at almost 2 miles high, I found one of the Continental Divides. This miles later would have food, then another 25 miles would have a motel. I was a good sign, it means “It’s all down hill from here!” had been experiencing some discomfort along the road and having had a All of these roads get closed at times during the winter. They had gates heart attack a few years earlier I was concerned. I had taken some meds and parking areas for putting on chains. I had the 2 must common and they had relieved the discomfort, but an hour later it was back. The emergency repair items - Duct Tape and WD40, but I could not see how next exit sign did not show gas, food or motel, it said “HOSPITAL.” I took it they would help if I got stuck in the snow. as a sign and stopped. The hospital had 6 parking spaces and a heliport! A couple of hours later and $9,000 of tests, the doctor said, “Try sleeping When I started to ride I was told every motorcyclist should go to Sturgis. in a bed tonight, if you’re not better in the morning come back.” I found a Well, that’s what South Dakota is famous for, right?. South Dakota was state number 24, and the odometer was about to turn 8,000 miles. I motel/casino and was fine in the morning. Albeit, I was quite spent a day in Sturgis and found out they thought May was still winter and no one rides motorcycles there in the winter because it’s too cold. None a bit lighter in the wallet. of the many motorcycle shops had any heated gear or heated gear I know you’ve all been waiting accessories. I could not replace my lost adapter for my heated gear. I for this—the history of the needed to replace my tail light bulbs again, and this small auto parts store Idaho Potato. The exhibit was also had an SAE trailer wire adapter that I was able to Duct tape to my fascinating. Lots of great heated gear! Warm again. On a side note, a few years ago I participated displays of potatoes. When I in the NJ Polar Bear. They ride all winter. I was riding a naked sport bike at explained how far I had come the time and even with my heated jacket and gloves I was always cold. I to see the museum, they gave did complete the event and even got the “Gold” rocker. Riding the a free sample of dehydrated (Continued on page 7) potatoes and a senior discount (Continued from page 5)
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2019 - Issue # 2
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS Riding in cold wet weather took some of the joy out of my spirit. I had wanted to see Robert Zimmerman’s birthplace in Hibbing, Minnesota. It Concours with a large wind screen and plenty of electric power is a would add 600 miles into the worst of the weather. I’ve put this on my list with Winslow AZ for another trip. I set my sites on the Jerusalem of different story. I was able to stay comfortable in the coldest weather. American Motorcycling - Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At the Motorcycle Museum in Sturgis I ran into a few old As this was my “See the USA” tour, I had to make day 33 camp in the friends! A Yamaha 2-cycle that home town of “Flag Day” - Waubeka, Wisconsin. I camped at Waubedonia was almost the same as my first Park on the Milwaukee River. The sun came out and life was great again. motorcycle, and the guy who With my head sold it to me in 1970. I rode covered, I entered the that one to my classes at the temple (The Harley Ridge Lee Campus of UB. Davidson plant), said After visiting the important my prayers to all the places in Sturgis, I headed for idols. This took me my campsite for the night at over 3 hours! I also had my museum shirt Rush No More! It was made in their shop, “I less than 40°F and the Rode Mine 9,057 camp had a heated Miles”. cabin next to the Another site in bathroom. I was the Milwaukee I visited only tent camper so they made me a deal I was the Holocaust could not refuse. I was Education Resource going to Mt. Rushmore Center. A unique in the morning, so the perspective on the WWII cabin worked out Holocaust. I was definitely perfect. in a religious funk. I was up and out early Being in a “pilgrimage” the next day headed to mood I was heading to the the monument arriving there at 9 AM sharp only to find they had not American Tel Aviv, the moved the fog out yet! Along with a few other disappointed tourists I home of the AMA Museum started to read all the displays and kiosks in the museum. I also took in Pickerington, Ohio. On advantage of the cafeteria for a fine breakfast and lunch. the way I found myself in Would you believe, around 2 PM I found the “FAN” vending machine. I Indiana! As soon as I said only took quarters, so I dropped in all my quarters for 12 minuets of clear Indiana, I started singing Gary Indiana Gary Indiana Gary Indiana, not viewing! Just enough time to see the 2 views. Louisiana…. As everyone knows Indiana is the home of The J. H. Rathbone Museum in Lafayette Indiana. All of us that are or have been a member of any of the fraternal organizations will find some memorabilia under the roof of the museum. On my way from Lafayette I was passing through Hagerstown and as we all know that’s right near Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. I was very disappointed. The AMA Museum was on a beautiful piece of property, but hey would not let me tent camp there! I did get to see the plaque given to one of my clubs for the donations we had made. The Ramapo Motorcycle Club (RMC) was founded in 1938, and is chartered by the AMA. (Continued from page 6)
The history of the monument was fascinating and I could have spent more time, but I was out of quarters and the fog came right back. Still, I had come this far and already been here 5 hours. The lights would come on in another 5 hours at 8 PM. I had to wait, didn’t I? As it turned out, I didn’t need to wait. The fog was the worst riding conditions I had endured so far. I took it slow and thankfully there was almost no other vehicles out. What should have been a 20 minute trip was over an hour of terror and I was soaked by the misty fog. I was really thankful for the heated cabin. I was in the last week of my travels and there was over 9k on my My good luck with weather seems to have ended. I was caught in a east odometer. Still, the Rock and Roll Hall of fame was going to be a highlight bound forecast that was going to follow me for a couple of days. (Continued on page 10)
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
National Rally Update We’re only 2 months away from the 2019 COG National in Williamsport, PA where we will come together to celebrate 30 years as a club! The rally team has been busy the last 18 months laying the groundwork for a successful event. Have you booked your room? Rally Central will be the Genetti Hotel, in the heart of Williamsport. The Genetti provides a great facility and location for headquarters. We also have a block of Rooms at the nearby Holiday Inn & Holiday Inn Express. They are just a short walk from Rally Central. Room rates are good Saturday-Sunday, so come early and stay late. Camping is a short ride away and info is available on the rally website. Early registration discounts end May 31st! Don’t miss out on the best pricing. Register online through the event calendar or a mail-in registration form is available as a download from the rally web page. Central Pennsylvania is beautiful in the summer and our host town is a great starting point to ride from to explore the many scenic roadways. Williamsport has very nice, small downtown that offers a big city vibe! You won’t be disappointed! There is a ton of tourist information in the ATTRACTIONS section of the rally web pages. We have compiled a very extensive list of tourism ideas to help you create your own wonderful rally experience. There are many things to see & do in Williamsport and the surrounding area that you will not be able to visit them all during the rally. There are a few museums including the Little League museum, a minor league baseball stadium, Hiawatha paddlewheel riverboat, escape room, and so much more. I’ve been posting food and attractions on the club’s Facebook page. Rally Merchandise is available for purchase as a separate transaction from registration. Merchandise sales end June 15, 2019 to allow time for production and delivery to the rally. There will be no rally merchandise for sale at the event! We are working directly with a vendor who will handle your order directly and manage all inventories and transactions. Delivery to the rally is included in the price. There is an option to have your order shipped to your home at an extra cost. The online store is located at: https://concours.itemorder.com/sale Route sheets and GPS files are ready. You can find descriptions of the rides and a link to the GPS & route sheet download by clicking the RIDING button on the top of the Rally website. There are many different routes to choose from. To be environmentally friendly there will be a limited number of copies of routes sheets at the event Please print your desired route sheets at home and bring them with you! Download and review the GPS files ahead of time to decide if you will use the routes as provided or modify them to your liking. Consider loading the routes onto your GPS before leaving home. The rally schedule is taking shape nicely. There will be tire tech sessions presented by Michelin, and a presentation by Skymed. The traditional ice cream social will most likely be sprinkled in Tuesday evening. We are planning having Paul Pelland (LongHaulPaul.com) to be our keynote speaker on Wednesday evening. He has many tales to tell on his quest to ride one million miles to benefit MS. The group banquet dinner is planned for Thursday evening and will be held at the Scottish Rite a few blocks away with the buffet catered by a local restaurant. Thanks to Bodo Wolters for volunteering to host a hands-on C10 tech session on Thursday. We are seeking additional volunteers to help with other possible tech sessions, maybe a C14 hand-on session. Contact me with your ideas. The rally team is taking a cue from last year’s national rally. We will try out the terrific idea of having indoor Tech-Talk round table discussions. This is where a group of attendees can gather at a table at Rider Central to share their collective knowledge with each other. It does not have to be bike repair or tech discussion. How about touring travel tips, riding gear, or other useful subjects? If you are interested in leading or facilitating a discussion, please contact me. In the past there has traditionally been a Woman's Breakfast or similar event during the national rally. At this point no one has volunteered to organize such an event. It does not have to a breakfast, since a full breakfast is included with the hotel stay at the Genetti. It is really a clean canvas at this point! Winery tour? Movie Night? Museum visit? Beers in the Parking lot? Anyone interested in stepping up should contact me. Want to be a rally volunteer? Have questions? Call or Email: COGNationalRally@cog-online.org See you at the rally, Jason Kaplitz, COG #32 814-615-9138
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2019 - Issue # 2
Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS
RIDES & EVENTS
route will take some of the best roads you will ever ride, and trust us that we know where they are, and how to cherry pick the best of the best. Time listed is START time. The cabin is situated in a scenic location with Visit www.cog-online.org for updates and more (ON) Sat, June 1, 8:30 AM panoramic views. Deb will serve up a fine lunch details. COG GTA/GTA East Meet Up at the cabin for all to enjoy. You don’t want to GTA COG is having a tech day on June 1st in miss this one. (ON) Tue, May 14, 6:30 PM Trenton and eastern Ontario COG is going to JACK FREDERICK 717.764.9091 South Central Ont. Meet & Greet meet up with them! I will be riding to Trenton for debbahn@gmail.com 2nd Tuesday each month at Mohawk Inn, 9230 a visit with our friends from the west. If you Guelph Lane, Campbellville, ON, just North of GREG PUTERBAUGH 717.465.8095 would like to join me please let us know. I will be pbaugh1@comcast.net 401. All welcome. Many hungry people arrive leaving from the Timmies at 10418 ON-7, earlier to get their dinner. A mainly social (ON) Mon, July 15, 6:00 PM function to meet other riders, shoot the breeze, Carleton Place, ON at 8:30 AM GTA East - Meet & Greet DEREK PUGH 613.222.9554 See May 20th for details. plan rides. concoursderek@yahoo.ca (PA) Mon - Fri, July 22-26, 2019 DAVE PERKINS 416.691.2191 (PA) Sun, June 2, 9:00 AM COG Keystone National Rally perkins43@rogers.com Ephrata Bikers Breakfast and Ride Williamsport PA Meet for Breakfast and see thousands of (PA) Thu - Sun, May 16-19 2019 marks the Concours Owners Group 30th motorcycles. NE SPRING FLING RALLY anniversary. Rally Master Jason Kaplitz, The Cloister Post 429 of the American Legion at Northeast Area Director Steve Smith, and the Matamoras PA The last rally we did in Matamoras was in 2012 300 Cocalico St., Ephrata, PA hosts a motorcycle entire NE Staff and 2019 Rally Team are excited and we had a blast. Thanks to a suggestive show on the first Sunday of each month, April to invite all to the… COG Keystone National nudge from Kevin Martin we will be going back through October. Rally 2019, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, July 22nd there this spring. There is great riding in Come anytime you like, but COG will schedule -26th, 2019. The "rally central" venue is in the Delaware River Valley of north NJ & PA, as well our event from 9:00 AM to 10:30-11:00 AM. We heart of the quaint and small Williamsport The as Hawks Nest and Catskill Mountains of NY. park towards the back top of the lot by the Genetti Hotel & Suites, 200 W. Fourth St., More info will be available in the next newsletter loading dock. Join other motorcyclists for great Williamsport, PA is rally central. Call and online. This is only preliminary information conversation, and a breakfast if you like. See 570.326.6600 for reservations and make sure to allow you to mark you calendar and book your thousands of motorcycles on display from to mention COG to get the rally rate. The Holiday concept, to classic, to modern Sport Touring. room. Best Western at Hunt’s Landing, Inn Express & Suites / Holiday Inn Downtown is After the event, there will be three rides to 570.491.2400. Mention Concours Owners the overflow hotel at 90/100 Pine St., choose from that will put you on some great Group on 5/16/19 to get our special pricing. Williamsport, PA. 507.327.5292 This is roads as you head to towards your home. The approximately 0.3 miles (5-6 minute walk) from STEVE CERUTTI 845.528.0543 (H) details for the ride and lunch can also be a rally central. 914.953.4154 (M) info@hvmp.com group decision that day There are plenty of places to eat & drink, small STEVEN SMITH 203.720.7575 STEVE RUTTER 717.361.1189 H shops to browse, and even a Wegmans. There is nead@cog-online.org 717.361.1189 W 717.468.0608.M terrific riding, and wonderful scenery in ruttersm@comcast.net BOB BARBANTI 845.895.1130( H) Pennsylvania and the Finger Lakes region of (ON) Tue, June 11, 6:30 PM (ON) Mon, May 20, 6:00 PM New York. Visit the rally web pages at: South Central Ont. Meet & Greet GTA East - Meet & Greet th for details. See May 14 www.concours.org/national/2019-national-rally 3rd Monday EVERY MONTH at Tartan Tavern, (ON) Mon, June 17, 6:00 PM The rally web pages already have lodging and 555 Rossland Rd East, Oshawa, ON. All GTA East - Meet & Greet reservation details, routes and information on welcome. Arrive early to kick tires and tell lies in See May 20th for details. attractions and camping. the parking lot (weather permitting). A social (NY) Sat, July 6, 11;30 AM function to meet other riders, discuss tech (PA) Sun, August 4, 9:00 AM Big W BBQ Meet & Greet issues, shoot the breeze, and plan rides. This is the annual COG NE pilgrimage to go for a Ephrata Bikers Breakfast and Ride See June 2nd for details. ride and enjoy great BBQ. We will converge on DAVE PERKINS 416.691.2191 (ON) Tue, August 13 9, 6:30 PM Big W BBQ, 1475 Route 22 , Wingdale, NY, for perkins43@rogers.com South Central Ont. Meet & Greet some great eats. Keep in mind they open at th (ON) Sat, June 1, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 12:00 PM, but some folks get there a little early See May 14 for details. COG GTA/GTA East Tech & Tune Up (VA) Thu—Sun, August 15-18 to meet & greet. Get ready for the riding season with a valve NE Dog Days of Summer STEVEN SMITH 203.720.7575 adjustment, carb sync, fluid change, etc. at the We return to Staunton, Va. and the Howard home of Peter Jackson, 28 Dorothy Dr., Trenton, nead@cog-online.org Johnson Express at 268 N. Central Ave., TERRY FAHERTY 718.227.2099 ON. Bring your own supplies. Waste materials Staunton, VA in the beautiful Downtown area. tmcefah@aol.com will be disposed of locally. We'll have basic The Ho Jo offers us a great location to launch (PA) Sun, July 7, 9:00 AM sockets and flat wrenches but we suggest you our rides each morning, offering many great Ephrata Bikers Breakfast and Ride bring your own tools. A carb synchronizer and routes and destinations. The Ho Jo has a great See June 2nd for details. brake fluid siphon will be available. pool to help beat the heat once back from your (ON) Tue, July 9, 6:30 PM ride. The town offers many great eateries and COG membership not required to attend. Come South Central Ont. Meet & Greet many opportunities to enjoy a Cold Adult and join in even if you are finished your spring th See May 14 for details. Beverage! Staunton offers a lot of non Riding prep. This is a learning event to share your (Pa) Sun, July 14, 9:00 AM activities too. Shopping, Wine & Beer tasting and knowledge and get your questions answered. Cabin Chill Ride to Eat a live Theater, to name just a few. For more Make us a stop as part of a day ride through This event is a ride to eat at Jack and Deb’s information visit https://visitstaunton.com/ Prince Edward County or south central Ontario. luxurious cabin located in Bedford County, PA, U.S. visitors more than welcome; you can check south of Everett. The ride starts with kickstands You must call the motel directly at out real estate and job opportunities while in the up at 9:00 AM at the Rutter’s convenience store (Continued on page 10) area! Lunch of sandwiches, salads and soft located at 1400 Baltimore St, Hanover, PA. The drinks about noon-ish. We are asking a donation
2019 - Issue # 2
of $3 per attendee to help cover the costs. DAVE PERKINS 416.691.2191 perkins43@rogers.com
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Concours Owners Group NORTHEAST AREA NEWS (Continued from page 9)
(Continued from page 7)
540.886.5330 to get the Dog Days Rate! JASON KAPLITZ 814.615.9138 cog62@kaplitz.com (ON) Mon, August 19, 6:00 PM GTA East - Meet & Greet See May 20th for details. (PA) Sun, September 1, 9:00 AM Ephrata Bikers Breakfast and Ride See June 2nd for details. (ON) Tue, September 10, 6:30 PM South Central Ont. Meet & Greet See May 14th for details. (ON) Mon, September 16, 6:00 PM GTA East - Meet & Greet See May 20th for details. (NY) Thu - Sun, September 19-22 NE FALL RALLY Alexandria Bay, NY Come experience the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands region of NY. Situated directly on the bank of the St. Lawrence River, Alexandria Bay offers many amenities and sight-seeing opportunities throughout northern NY state and Canada. The Capt. Thomson's Resort, 45 James Street, Alexandria Bay, NY is the rally hotel. To make reservations call 315-482-9961 (Ext 1 to reach our liaison, Alicia) Monday-Friday between 9:00AM and 4:00PM (EST) and please mention that you are with the Concours Owners Group. More details on the COG calendar. STEVE CERUTTI 845.528.0543 (H) 914.953.4154 (M) info@hvmp.com GEORGE GRIFFITH 570.925.5010 (H) 570.651.2919 (M) gbgriff@epix.net
of this trip and I was excited to get there. The Hall of Fame was terrific. Here again it was time to get religious at the alter of the Noble Laureate, Bob Dylan. After arriving home, I assembled all the patches I collected along the way and had them put onto a new riding vest. By the way, the STP patch is not for the oil additive, but for my name. Steven Todd Peck!
photo courtesy Kevin Martin #145
Area Director
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Steven Smith #3184
2019 - Issue # 2