HIKE REPORT
Wednesday, 11 January 2017, winter hike - From Walden Pond to Sandy Pond
Hike Leader: Janet Miller
4.75 miles, 10:00 am start from Walden Pond State Park, Concord, MA
Hikers (19): Janet, Aliza Edwards, Allan Fierce, Ann Northup, Barbara Martin, Ilkka Suvanto, Jack Mroczkowski, Joan Laxson, Margie Lee, Marie Keutmann, Maurice King, Robyn Maislin, Sander Nydick, Sandi Hartwell, Susan Sabin, Winnie Parker, Winslow Green, and first-timers Ann & Bill Wachur.
Eighteen hikers joined me on this hike which started from the State Park parking lot and headed away from Walden Pond and up Pine Hill, down the other side to Flint Pond, returning on mostly different trails. The weather was balmy and, since Tuesday’s rain had washed away almost all of the snow that had fallen on Saturday and left only some slushy spots, most of us decided that microspikes were not needed. The trail passed through both woods and meadows and there were lots of comments about how lovely it was. However, there were some complaints about wet feet at the end!
After the hike, several of us gathered at Trail’s End Café for good food and continued conversation.
Report by Janet Miller.
Monday, January 16, 2017
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
Winter Hike in Wright Woods/Rides from Concord - January 4, 2017
HIKE/RIDE REPORTS
Wednesday, 4 January 2017, Wright Woods hike & Ride(s) from Concord
Hike Leader: Jack Mroczkowski
4 or 6 mile hike, 9:30 am start from ~588 Sudbury Road, Concord, MA
Ride Leaders: Ken Hablow, Bernie Flynn, & Andy Brand
42 & 31 mile rides, 10:30 am start from North Bridge parking lot, Monument Street, Concord, MA
Riders - 31 mi (6): Andy, Harriet Fell, Jack Donohue, Patrick Ward, Robyn Maislin, and Steve Miller.
Riders - 42 mi (26): Barbara Martin, Barry Nelson, Bernie Flynn, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Curt Dudley-Marling, David Fay, Dom Jorge, Don Mannes, Frank Hubbard, Greg Stathis, Ken Hablow, Kimberly Wach, Larry Kernan, Lindy King, Marc Baskin, Michael Byrne, Rich Taylor, Rick Lawrence, Rick Carlson, Robin Frain, Selig Saltzman, Susan Sabin, Tim Jacoby, Wing Chow, and first-timer Bruce Kalow.
Present at lunch: Helen Greitzer and Kaz Zelny.
Twenty one hikers set off into the woods during a fortunate break in the rain. A number of hikers commented on the pleasant and eclectic terrain: tall pine trees, needle carpeted trails wide enough for people to walk side-by-side and converse easily, enjoyable slightly hilly “workout” sections, and plenty of water view sections.
After about two miles, the group arrived at a junction, where four people peeled off with maps to finish the shorter hike while the rest continued to Mt. Misery. An explanation was offered for Mt. Misery’s name: long ago, two bullocks with a chain around their necks escaped, got tangled in some trees, and died a miserable death.
On a more pleasant note, on the way back we climbed a winding footpath, up Fairhaven Hill, to the edge of a magnificent hilltop property with a very large mysterious statue in the garden. To try to satisfy our curiosity, I posted an inquiry note on the owner's front door the next morning. I was rather surprised to receive more than a simple answer. It is a statue of the Hindu god, Ganesha, which was shipped from Bali. The statue has a much gentler demeanor on its other side, which we were unable to see. The owners have invited us to return to their property to view the statue, as well as their gigantic solar array, more closely! I would like to accept this opportunity for a private visitation later in March or April, although probably not on a Wednesday. Please contact me if you would be interested in joining me.
Report by Jack Mroczkowski.
Wow! Who knew there would be thirty-two riders on January 4th? Everyone was attentive to the stated ride start time and showed up by 10:15 am. This allowed Jack to take attendance on his super special WW phone app so we could get under way by 10:30 – which we did.
The weather was just as forecast. It was about 35 degrees when we left and the roads were damp. The sun peeked out a few times, but not for long. The temperature for most of the ride was in the low 40s and got all the way up to 45.
With so many riders, we broke up into three groups. The 31 mile option was a late addition, led by first-time WW Ride Leader, Andy Brand, and there were six riders total. Bernie took out a faster group on the 42 mile route, while I took a slightly smaller group for 42 miles at WW pace. Broken up this way there was no need for arrowing, although in my group we placed human arrows in a few places just to be sure we did not miss anyone. We made our first Geezer stop at the South Acton fire station, the second at the Boxboro town hall, and the third along the route at a trailhead.
My group was the last to arrive back in Concord and we went directly to Trail’s End Café where we met up with Helen, some hikers, and riders from both the other ride groups. Thanks to Jack Mroczkowsk for arranging use of the back room at Trail’s End. This enabled all of us to sit together.
Thanks to Jack Donohue for taking attendance, to Andy for leading the short ride, to Bernie for leading the spirited long ride, to Barry for sweeping Bernie's long ride, and to Mike Byrne for sweeping my group. With only six riders, there was no sweep on the short ride.
Report by Ken Hablow.
Wednesday, 4 January 2017, Wright Woods hike & Ride(s) from Concord
Hike Leader: Jack Mroczkowski
4 or 6 mile hike, 9:30 am start from ~588 Sudbury Road, Concord, MA
Ride Leaders: Ken Hablow, Bernie Flynn, & Andy Brand
42 & 31 mile rides, 10:30 am start from North Bridge parking lot, Monument Street, Concord, MA
Riders - 31 mi (6): Andy, Harriet Fell, Jack Donohue, Patrick Ward, Robyn Maislin, and Steve Miller.
Riders - 42 mi (26): Barbara Martin, Barry Nelson, Bernie Flynn, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Curt Dudley-Marling, David Fay, Dom Jorge, Don Mannes, Frank Hubbard, Greg Stathis, Ken Hablow, Kimberly Wach, Larry Kernan, Lindy King, Marc Baskin, Michael Byrne, Rich Taylor, Rick Lawrence, Rick Carlson, Robin Frain, Selig Saltzman, Susan Sabin, Tim Jacoby, Wing Chow, and first-timer Bruce Kalow.
Present at lunch: Helen Greitzer and Kaz Zelny.
Twenty one hikers set off into the woods during a fortunate break in the rain. A number of hikers commented on the pleasant and eclectic terrain: tall pine trees, needle carpeted trails wide enough for people to walk side-by-side and converse easily, enjoyable slightly hilly “workout” sections, and plenty of water view sections.
After about two miles, the group arrived at a junction, where four people peeled off with maps to finish the shorter hike while the rest continued to Mt. Misery. An explanation was offered for Mt. Misery’s name: long ago, two bullocks with a chain around their necks escaped, got tangled in some trees, and died a miserable death.
On a more pleasant note, on the way back we climbed a winding footpath, up Fairhaven Hill, to the edge of a magnificent hilltop property with a very large mysterious statue in the garden. To try to satisfy our curiosity, I posted an inquiry note on the owner's front door the next morning. I was rather surprised to receive more than a simple answer. It is a statue of the Hindu god, Ganesha, which was shipped from Bali. The statue has a much gentler demeanor on its other side, which we were unable to see. The owners have invited us to return to their property to view the statue, as well as their gigantic solar array, more closely! I would like to accept this opportunity for a private visitation later in March or April, although probably not on a Wednesday. Please contact me if you would be interested in joining me.
Report by Jack Mroczkowski.
Wow! Who knew there would be thirty-two riders on January 4th? Everyone was attentive to the stated ride start time and showed up by 10:15 am. This allowed Jack to take attendance on his super special WW phone app so we could get under way by 10:30 – which we did.
The weather was just as forecast. It was about 35 degrees when we left and the roads were damp. The sun peeked out a few times, but not for long. The temperature for most of the ride was in the low 40s and got all the way up to 45.
With so many riders, we broke up into three groups. The 31 mile option was a late addition, led by first-time WW Ride Leader, Andy Brand, and there were six riders total. Bernie took out a faster group on the 42 mile route, while I took a slightly smaller group for 42 miles at WW pace. Broken up this way there was no need for arrowing, although in my group we placed human arrows in a few places just to be sure we did not miss anyone. We made our first Geezer stop at the South Acton fire station, the second at the Boxboro town hall, and the third along the route at a trailhead.
My group was the last to arrive back in Concord and we went directly to Trail’s End Café where we met up with Helen, some hikers, and riders from both the other ride groups. Thanks to Jack Mroczkowsk for arranging use of the back room at Trail’s End. This enabled all of us to sit together.
Thanks to Jack Donohue for taking attendance, to Andy for leading the short ride, to Bernie for leading the spirited long ride, to Barry for sweeping Bernie's long ride, and to Mike Byrne for sweeping my group. With only six riders, there was no sweep on the short ride.
Report by Ken Hablow.
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| Short and part of Long riders at the Acton rest stop (missing a few) |
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Thursday, December 29, 2016
Ride or Hike & Hanukkah/Ken Birthday Party - December 28, 2016
HIKE/RIDE/PARTY REPORTS
Wednesday, 28 December 2016, Hanukkah Hike/Ride & party
Ride Leader: Ken Hablow
Hike Leader & party hostess: Marie Keutmann
33 mile ride, 10:30 am start from 68 Birchwood Lane, Lincoln, MA
4 mile hike, 11:00 am start from 68 Birchwood Lane, Lincoln, MA
Riders (18): Ken, Barry Nelson, Bernie Flynn, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Dom Jorge, Francie Sparks, Gene Ho, Greg Stathis, Linda Nelson, Lindy King, Marc Baskin, Rich Taylor, Rick Carlson, Rick Lawrence, Russ Keene, Stan Kay, and Wing Chow.
Hikers (26): Marie, Adena Schutzberg, Barbara Jacobs, Bob Anderson, Carol Anderson, Chuck McWilliams, Don Mannes, Ilkka Suvanto, Janet Miller, Joanne Samuels, Joel Covitz, Judi Burten, Julie Dodd, Margie Lee, Mike Hanauer, Robyn Maislin, Romaine Randall, Roy Westerberg, Sander Nydick, Sandi Hartwell, Susan Sabin, Ted Nyder, Tony Lee, Winslow Green, and first-timers Mark Levine and Marsha Westerberg
Present at lunch (10): Betty Hoffman, Bob Sawyer, Eli Post, Jack Mroczkowski, Jan Hablow, Jerry Green, Joan Laxson, John Allen, Judy Kanigel, Kathy Halmi, Kaz Zelny, and Sumner Kagan.
Kitchen crew (2): Helen Greitzer & Richard Vignoni (assisted by Barbara Jacobs, Betty Hoffman, Joan Laxson, Judi Burten, and Sandi Hartwell).
The good news was that the roads were dry and the temperature was always above freezing, barely. It was mostly cloudy and there was a slight wind, but – hey! – it was December 28th.
Eighteen of us ventured out on seventeen bikes for my shortened “birthday ride.” We pretty much stayed together for the entire 33 miles, so arrowing was not necessary, although we did place arrows on two occasions. The ride was rather uneventful which, at this time of year, is a good thing, and we didn’t have to wait for any mechanical problems.
We arrived back at Marie’s for a major feast, although only about half the riders stayed for lunch. When I walked into Marie’s kitchen, Richard had his hands deep in turkey fat as he pulled the bird apart. There was plenty of food and more than enough beer and wine. After lunch, the Yankee Swap went off very well.
I would like to thank Marie, Richard, and Helen for their work planning the day, as well as those who brought food. Special thanks also to Marie for opening her home to us.
Thanks to Linda Nelson for sweeping. Barry volunteered to sweep, but, since Linda was always behind him, she deserves the credit. Thanks also to Russ Keene for taking photos which may be seen at
https://goo.gl/photos/jFfzinafnKWDnVGm7 .
Ride report by Ken Hablow.
Twenty-six hikers headed into the woods from my backyard for a four mile hike around Farrar Pond. Along the way we saw evidence of very recent beaver activity, including an enormous new beaver dam and freshly cut tree stumps. A new fence, across the route where we usually bushwhack, required us to go over or under the fence, but did not deter us from our route. We all returned to the house on schedule, just before 1:00 pm. Thanks to Adena for sweeping.
There were about fifty people at the party, nearly equaling last year's Hanukkah party attendance record! It was great to see Bob Sawyer, Jerry Green, and Kathy Halmi who came early for the party and to visit with the cooks before the hordes arrived. It was also very nice to see some WWs whom we have not seen for a long while, including Judy Kanigel and Sumner Kagan (who came for lunch), as well as Joel Covitz and Sandi Hartwell (who hiked with us). While the bikers and hikers were out on the road and the trail, the cooks were very active, with Richard cooking two turkeys, one on the gas grill outside and one in the oven. Helen and Richard made applesauce and a delicious cranberry sauce. Betty Hoffman came early and helped with the cooking and set up. Barbara and Judi had prepared dozens of delicious latkes (the day before) which were reheated in the oven after the hike. With the many appetizers, side dishes, and desserts brought by others, there was plenty of food for all to enjoy.
After everyone had eaten, Sander lit the Hanukkah candles in the menorah and recited the blessing. This was followed by the Yankee Swap (supervised by Joanne Samuels), with a wide selection of gifts including wine and chocolate turtles (both of which were swapped many times), as well as bike books and socks, to name a few.
Thanks to Ken Hablow for leading the ride, to Richard and Helen for cooking, to Betty, Joan, and Sandi for helping in the kitchen, to Barbara and Judi for making the delicious latkes, and to all those who contributed and participated to make the party such a great success. Happy Birthday, Ken!!
Hike & party reports by Marie Keutmann.
Coordinator's note: I wish to thank Marie, again, for opening her home to us. Thanks also to Richard for his many efforts on our behalf, without which our Hanukkah party would not have happened. He always makes it look so easy!
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| At the rest stop |
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Penultimate Hurrah Ride - December 21, 2016
RIDE REPORT
Wednesday, 21 December 2016, The Penultimate Hurrah 2016
Ride Leader: Jack Donohue
30.4 miles, 10:00 am start from parking lot behind/beside the Bikeway Source, Bedford, MA
Riders (17): Jack, Andy Brand, Barbara Martin, Barry Nelson, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Curt Dudley-Marling, Dom Jorge, Doug Hobkirk, Everett Briggs, Francie Sparks, Gene Ho, Ken Hablow, Larry Kernan, Richard Vignoni, Susan Sabin, and Wing Chow.
Present at lunch: Helen Greitzer.
Q - When is a Wednesday Wheeler ride not a Wednesday Wheeler ride?
A - When there's no one to lead.
Read on. . . . .
We were all ready to go when someone noticed a Late Arrival (LA). It was well past post time, but I figured I could wait a few more minutes. The rest of the group, who'd been waiting for a while in the cold, decided they could not and took off.
When the dust settled, the only cyclists remaining were LA, Barry (who volunteered to sweep), Andy (who volunteered to help), and I. This was somewhat worse than last time, when a mere 2/3 of the group departed without me, enough to make one paranoid. So instead of a pleasant leisurely Wheeler ride, I had to engage chase mode in a vain attempt to catch the group. This was clearly futile since, having thrown off the shackles of arrowing duty, they were free to go as fast as they possibly could and take no prisoners.
So I played catch up for a while, until there came a fork in the road (sound familiar?). Naturally I took the wrong one and was blissfully unaware until the road ended and my Lady of the Phone had no advice as to which way to turn. So, I realized my mistake and LA and I turned around. Unfortunately, Andy and Barry didn't see us go the wrong way; they kept on going the right way. So now we were in the strange situation where the sweep was ahead of the leader, but we managed to catch up to them and our group of four was restored to its proper order.
We did eventually catch up to the rest of the group at the Ken Hablow Rest Stop on South Chelmsford Road, where I forced everyone to pause for a group photo. While Barry and I were using the facilities, they again left us in the dust, this time including LA and Andy, so Barry and I had no one to lead. Nice work if you can get it.
I saw a rider in the distance and had a fleeting hope that my group had started arrowing again. Alas, it was only Everett, who very kindly had waited to point out a large patch of black ice in the road.
At the ride start I had announced an alternative rest stop at Great Brook Farm, since the ski touring center portajohns were locked. This required a slight deviation off course, so the question was whether the group would make the detour, having already relieved themselves at the KHRS. The answer was yes and no. The chase group who were visible when we neared the turn decided to stay with the program, so we were able to catch up with them at the farm. I gave them the option of resuming the rest of the ride in true Wheeler fashion, arrows and all, or continuing the wild ride they had been on. They opted for arrows. In the end I was able to lead 1/2 the riders 1/3 of the time, so it wasn't a total bust, leader-wise.
Four of us (Barry, Francie, Helen, and I) went to Ken's NY Deli for lunch.
Thanks to Barry for sweeping.
PS - I am happy to report that the "Curse of Butch" has lifted. This was the first time in quite a while that Butch was able to complete one of my rides without mishap.
Sermon on the Dismount
We need to talk about tardiness. It seems every time I lead a Wheeler ride, one or more people come late. It's one thing to wait around a bit on a warm summer day, quite another to stand around shivering when the temperatures are in the 20s.
So I've decided, on my rides, no more Mister Nice Guy. From now on there will be zero tolerance for lateness. If the ride starts at 10:00 am, we will roll at 10:00 - or at least immediately after boring ride details and the roll call.
This is not as Draconian as it sounds. Nowadays, most, if not all, rides have a published route which you can download to gps or phone. Failing that, you can print out the cue sheet and bring it. If you arrive late, you're on your own, so like a good boy scout, be prepared.
Report by Jack Donohue.
Wednesday, 21 December 2016, The Penultimate Hurrah 2016
Ride Leader: Jack Donohue
30.4 miles, 10:00 am start from parking lot behind/beside the Bikeway Source, Bedford, MA
Riders (17): Jack, Andy Brand, Barbara Martin, Barry Nelson, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Curt Dudley-Marling, Dom Jorge, Doug Hobkirk, Everett Briggs, Francie Sparks, Gene Ho, Ken Hablow, Larry Kernan, Richard Vignoni, Susan Sabin, and Wing Chow.
Present at lunch: Helen Greitzer.
Q - When is a Wednesday Wheeler ride not a Wednesday Wheeler ride?
A - When there's no one to lead.
Read on. . . . .
We were all ready to go when someone noticed a Late Arrival (LA). It was well past post time, but I figured I could wait a few more minutes. The rest of the group, who'd been waiting for a while in the cold, decided they could not and took off.
When the dust settled, the only cyclists remaining were LA, Barry (who volunteered to sweep), Andy (who volunteered to help), and I. This was somewhat worse than last time, when a mere 2/3 of the group departed without me, enough to make one paranoid. So instead of a pleasant leisurely Wheeler ride, I had to engage chase mode in a vain attempt to catch the group. This was clearly futile since, having thrown off the shackles of arrowing duty, they were free to go as fast as they possibly could and take no prisoners.
So I played catch up for a while, until there came a fork in the road (sound familiar?). Naturally I took the wrong one and was blissfully unaware until the road ended and my Lady of the Phone had no advice as to which way to turn. So, I realized my mistake and LA and I turned around. Unfortunately, Andy and Barry didn't see us go the wrong way; they kept on going the right way. So now we were in the strange situation where the sweep was ahead of the leader, but we managed to catch up to them and our group of four was restored to its proper order.
We did eventually catch up to the rest of the group at the Ken Hablow Rest Stop on South Chelmsford Road, where I forced everyone to pause for a group photo. While Barry and I were using the facilities, they again left us in the dust, this time including LA and Andy, so Barry and I had no one to lead. Nice work if you can get it.
I saw a rider in the distance and had a fleeting hope that my group had started arrowing again. Alas, it was only Everett, who very kindly had waited to point out a large patch of black ice in the road.
At the ride start I had announced an alternative rest stop at Great Brook Farm, since the ski touring center portajohns were locked. This required a slight deviation off course, so the question was whether the group would make the detour, having already relieved themselves at the KHRS. The answer was yes and no. The chase group who were visible when we neared the turn decided to stay with the program, so we were able to catch up with them at the farm. I gave them the option of resuming the rest of the ride in true Wheeler fashion, arrows and all, or continuing the wild ride they had been on. They opted for arrows. In the end I was able to lead 1/2 the riders 1/3 of the time, so it wasn't a total bust, leader-wise.
Four of us (Barry, Francie, Helen, and I) went to Ken's NY Deli for lunch.
Thanks to Barry for sweeping.
PS - I am happy to report that the "Curse of Butch" has lifted. This was the first time in quite a while that Butch was able to complete one of my rides without mishap.
Sermon on the Dismount
We need to talk about tardiness. It seems every time I lead a Wheeler ride, one or more people come late. It's one thing to wait around a bit on a warm summer day, quite another to stand around shivering when the temperatures are in the 20s.
So I've decided, on my rides, no more Mister Nice Guy. From now on there will be zero tolerance for lateness. If the ride starts at 10:00 am, we will roll at 10:00 - or at least immediately after boring ride details and the roll call.
This is not as Draconian as it sounds. Nowadays, most, if not all, rides have a published route which you can download to gps or phone. Failing that, you can print out the cue sheet and bring it. If you arrive late, you're on your own, so like a good boy scout, be prepared.
Report by Jack Donohue.
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| At the start |
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| The whole group at the KHRS |
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| This time with Barbara's phone |
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Jingle Bell walk/ride & potluck - December 14, 2016
RIDE REPORT
Wednesday, 14 December 2016, Jingle Bell walk/ride & potluck
Walk Leader and hostess: Ann Northup
Ride Leader: Fred Newton
~5 mile walk or ~24 mile ride - 10:30 am start from Ann's house, Southborough, MA
Walkers (15): Ann, Adena Schutzberg, Barbara Jacobs, Chuck McWilliams, Eli Post, Illka Suvanto, Janet Miller, Joan Laxson, Judi Burten, Kaz Zelny, Marie Keutmann, Patrick Ward, Roy Westerberg, Sander Nydick, and first-timer Ted Nyder.
Riders (6): Fred, Butch Pemstein, Francie Sparks, Gene Ho, Richard Vignoni, and Wing Chow.
Ride start & party: Helen Greitzer and first-timer Bill Schofield.
Party: Margie and Tony Lee.
It was a sunny, brisk day for the fifteen walkers and six cyclists who set out from Ann's home at 10:30 am. The cyclists did a 23.7 mile route and the walkers did 5.3 miles to and around Hopkinton State Park. A few WWs arrived early (expecting a 10:00 start). Two arrived late: Kaz followed the route backwards and met up with the walkers at the dam; Gene didn't expect the strong headwind on his ride from Newton, so, not able to meet up with the riders, created his own ride.
It was a pleasant walk on forest trails over crunchy light snow and leaves, on roads, and on clear paths. We finished in about two hours and met up with the riders who finished at exactly the same time! Both groups, plus partygoers Margie and Tony, convened at Ann's to enjoy delicious potluck refreshments.
Many thanks to Fred for leading the cyclists.
Report by Ann Northup.
Five cold-resistant riders started out after a short safety talk. Since Butch was a bit hoarse, he declined to sing his safety song. Gene arrived late and rode the entire course by himself.
It was a clear, brisk day, with temperature ranging from 34 to 36 degrees. Fortunately, the 0.4 mile 6-6.9% grade hill, Cedar Street Extension, was waiting for us at the very beginning, so we had a chance to warm up right from the start. Since our group was small, we stayed together without a sweep. The ride was advertised as 1466 feet of climbing - it ended up being 386 feet more, bringing the total to 1852 feet which is a lot for a 23.5 mile ride, but we needed the hills to stay warm. Our steepest grade was 10.3%.
My favorite spot on the ride is Fiske Millpond on Pond Street. Large rocks poke up through the water (ice in this case) like many little mountains - very unusual = with a nice picnic table by the dam. So we had our photo taken there, before the long 2.1 mile climb up Fiske Mill Road and East Street. There was a little bit of down hill on the way to break it up. I chose a different return from last year to avoid the long, boring climb up Westborough Road with its heavy traffic, using School, Pond, Spring, and Fruit streets instead. Miraculously, we arrived back at Ann's house at the exact moment the hikers returned. The potluck was fantastic, as was the company. Thanks to Ann for opening her home to us and for hosting such a great party.
Report by Fred Newton.
Wednesday, 14 December 2016, Jingle Bell walk/ride & potluck
Walk Leader and hostess: Ann Northup
Ride Leader: Fred Newton
~5 mile walk or ~24 mile ride - 10:30 am start from Ann's house, Southborough, MA
Walkers (15): Ann, Adena Schutzberg, Barbara Jacobs, Chuck McWilliams, Eli Post, Illka Suvanto, Janet Miller, Joan Laxson, Judi Burten, Kaz Zelny, Marie Keutmann, Patrick Ward, Roy Westerberg, Sander Nydick, and first-timer Ted Nyder.
Riders (6): Fred, Butch Pemstein, Francie Sparks, Gene Ho, Richard Vignoni, and Wing Chow.
Ride start & party: Helen Greitzer and first-timer Bill Schofield.
Party: Margie and Tony Lee.
It was a sunny, brisk day for the fifteen walkers and six cyclists who set out from Ann's home at 10:30 am. The cyclists did a 23.7 mile route and the walkers did 5.3 miles to and around Hopkinton State Park. A few WWs arrived early (expecting a 10:00 start). Two arrived late: Kaz followed the route backwards and met up with the walkers at the dam; Gene didn't expect the strong headwind on his ride from Newton, so, not able to meet up with the riders, created his own ride.
It was a pleasant walk on forest trails over crunchy light snow and leaves, on roads, and on clear paths. We finished in about two hours and met up with the riders who finished at exactly the same time! Both groups, plus partygoers Margie and Tony, convened at Ann's to enjoy delicious potluck refreshments.
Many thanks to Fred for leading the cyclists.
Report by Ann Northup.
Five cold-resistant riders started out after a short safety talk. Since Butch was a bit hoarse, he declined to sing his safety song. Gene arrived late and rode the entire course by himself.
It was a clear, brisk day, with temperature ranging from 34 to 36 degrees. Fortunately, the 0.4 mile 6-6.9% grade hill, Cedar Street Extension, was waiting for us at the very beginning, so we had a chance to warm up right from the start. Since our group was small, we stayed together without a sweep. The ride was advertised as 1466 feet of climbing - it ended up being 386 feet more, bringing the total to 1852 feet which is a lot for a 23.5 mile ride, but we needed the hills to stay warm. Our steepest grade was 10.3%.
My favorite spot on the ride is Fiske Millpond on Pond Street. Large rocks poke up through the water (ice in this case) like many little mountains - very unusual = with a nice picnic table by the dam. So we had our photo taken there, before the long 2.1 mile climb up Fiske Mill Road and East Street. There was a little bit of down hill on the way to break it up. I chose a different return from last year to avoid the long, boring climb up Westborough Road with its heavy traffic, using School, Pond, Spring, and Fruit streets instead. Miraculously, we arrived back at Ann's house at the exact moment the hikers returned. The potluck was fantastic, as was the company. Thanks to Ann for opening her home to us and for hosting such a great party.
Report by Fred Newton.
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| The hikers |
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Birdhouses of Boxboro - December 8, 2016
RIDE REPORT
Thursday, 8 December 2016, Looking for the "Birdhouses of Boxboro"
Ride Leader: Ken Hablow
35 miles, 10:00 am start from North Bridge parking lot, Monument Street, Concord, MA
Riders (16): Ken, Barry Nelson, Bob Wolf, Butch Pemstein, Curt Dudley-Marling, Dom Jorge, Francie Sparks, Jack Donohue, Larry Kernan, Lindy King, Ray Komow, Rick Lawrence, Roy Westerberg, Selig Saltzman, Wing Chow, and first-timer David Fay.
The weather was definitely better than on Wednesday. It was chilly, but not bone-chilling cold. It was 32 degrees when I left home at about 9:15 am, and maybe a couple of degrees warmer at the ride start. The temperature rose to 38 during the ride. The roads were damp, but otherwise clear - there were no puddles or ice. Worthy of note: Lindy actually drove to Concord.
Fourteen of us started out and stayed together enough so I could see the line of riders in my mirror most of the time. There were a few instances where we used arrows, even though they were not necessary. We made a few short stops to collect the group. We rode mostly in single file and were very courteous to passing vehicles.
Butch left us at the top of Strawberry Hill because he forgot warm gloves and his hands were cold. We made our obligatory geezer stop at the South Acton fire station at about mile 8. I thought I saw a "Welcome CRW" sign, but I may have been mistaken. It was here that Bob and Wing found us. Bob had to return home, so he left the group at mile 10.
We found the birdhouses on Hill Road!! Our photographer of record, Jack Donohue, took the attached photo to commemorate the occasion. Just as we approached the house where the birdhouses reside, a car swerved into the driveway. The driver told us that her husband’s grandfather had put the birdhouses up and she was glad that the house was still in the family. Since Wing kept blasting off the front of the group, he missed the photo, but, as Jack always says, “if you go off the front you are on your own.”
At the bottom of the hill, just before the Rte 111 crossing, we passed by another favorite geezer stop at the Boxboro town hall. However, we did stop at yet a third favorite stop at a trailhead on South Acton Road. Again I pointed out a "Welcome CRW" sign, but was told that it really read "Watch for Lyme Disease."
Roy and the Bedford group left us in Concord center to head home and the rest of us rode back to the parking lot. Thanks to Jack for sweeping and taking photos.
Report by Ken Hablow.
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| At the Start |
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| With the Birdhouses |
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| Matching Jackets |
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| Joinred by Bob and Wing at the rest stop |
Monday, December 5, 2016
Farm to Farm - December 1, 2016
RIDE REPORT
Thursday, 1 December 2016, Farm to Farm (Verrill to Great Brook)
Ride Leader: Doug Hobkirk
31 miles from Verrill Farm, Concord, MA
Riders (24): Doug, Allan Fierce, Barry Nelson, Bill Lane, Curt Dudley-Marling, Dmitry Gorenburg, Don Mannes, Francie Sparks, Fred Newton, Gene Ho, Jack Donohue, Jim Whinfield, Julie Dodd, Larry Kernan, Mary Kernan, Maurice King, Ray Komow, Richard Vignoni, Roy Westerberg, Selig Saltzman, Steve Carlson, Susan Sabin, Tim Wilson (?), and Tom Allen.
How can 50° be hot, even with a bright sun? Dimitry wore a short-sleeved jersey and it was apropos - another gorgeous day for riding. Almost immediately after leaving Verrill Farm, we took a left onto "Old Road to Nine Acre Corner," aka ORNAC, to avoid Sudbury Road. We proceeded through Concord center and up Monument Street, where we were joined by four riders (Curt, Jack, Larry, Mary). We regrouped and waved to Rich Taylor as he passed by - will he reach 10,000 miles by year's end? Good luck, Rich.
Superb rural atmosphere for almost all of the next thirteen miles (Maple Street to the end of Pope Road), which include a swamp, several farms, Great Brook Farm state park (where we took a break and Julie joined us), and cranberry bogs. The final ten miles had very little traffic, but the atmosphere was more suburban. Zero hills in the final 4.5 miles.
Rider's complaint: riders were staying in groups too large to allow cars to pass easily. So I gave a safety talk, mentioning that whenever a cyclist avoids irritating a car driver, it helps all cyclists.
Leader's complaint: Fred blasts up the steeps, seated, looking easy. Message to Fred: AARGH!!
Thanks to Barry for sweeping.
Lunch at Rossini's was great - excellent bruschetta, pizza, sandwiches.
Report by Doug Hobkirk.
Thursday, 1 December 2016, Farm to Farm (Verrill to Great Brook)
Ride Leader: Doug Hobkirk
31 miles from Verrill Farm, Concord, MA
Riders (24): Doug, Allan Fierce, Barry Nelson, Bill Lane, Curt Dudley-Marling, Dmitry Gorenburg, Don Mannes, Francie Sparks, Fred Newton, Gene Ho, Jack Donohue, Jim Whinfield, Julie Dodd, Larry Kernan, Mary Kernan, Maurice King, Ray Komow, Richard Vignoni, Roy Westerberg, Selig Saltzman, Steve Carlson, Susan Sabin, Tim Wilson (?), and Tom Allen.
How can 50° be hot, even with a bright sun? Dimitry wore a short-sleeved jersey and it was apropos - another gorgeous day for riding. Almost immediately after leaving Verrill Farm, we took a left onto "Old Road to Nine Acre Corner," aka ORNAC, to avoid Sudbury Road. We proceeded through Concord center and up Monument Street, where we were joined by four riders (Curt, Jack, Larry, Mary). We regrouped and waved to Rich Taylor as he passed by - will he reach 10,000 miles by year's end? Good luck, Rich.
Superb rural atmosphere for almost all of the next thirteen miles (Maple Street to the end of Pope Road), which include a swamp, several farms, Great Brook Farm state park (where we took a break and Julie joined us), and cranberry bogs. The final ten miles had very little traffic, but the atmosphere was more suburban. Zero hills in the final 4.5 miles.
Rider's complaint: riders were staying in groups too large to allow cars to pass easily. So I gave a safety talk, mentioning that whenever a cyclist avoids irritating a car driver, it helps all cyclists.
Leader's complaint: Fred blasts up the steeps, seated, looking easy. Message to Fred: AARGH!!
Thanks to Barry for sweeping.
Lunch at Rossini's was great - excellent bruschetta, pizza, sandwiches.
Report by Doug Hobkirk.
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| Managed to get everyone's face except Jim |
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