Quite a crowd was on hand, including celebrity chefs, a priest, a outback styled ranger, doctors, witches, ghouls and devils. Throw in a sprite, Dr. Pepper, a homeless man and gods and goddesses and you get the picture.

The campfire was a welcome treat for those wanting to brave the cool evening. And what party would be complete without the neighborhood trick or treaters.

Lots of treats, a beer keg and the ever popular Halloween “dirty graveyard” meant everyone left well fed.

Thanks to Heidi for a wonderful evening of Halloween fun.

Check out the photos on Facebook.

Courtesy of Karen Strouhal

Nights on the trails are a rare chance to really stretch your senses. The shadows and reflections from the moon through the ow barren trees and the flowing water of the Cuyahoga River challenge your eyes while the quiet soothes your ears. There are times when the group suddenly quits the lively chatter to just appreciate the beauty. One ritual started by our very own English professor is to stop along the trail and share your favorite snip of poetry if so inspired. By this time the tangy smell of the fallen leaves crunching on the path and the inviting wood smoke is calling to the bikers and bikers that it is time to return to the lot and head to the Watering hole for beer, hot drinks and bar food.

Alas I have a deadline today to get the newsletter out to our members and friends. So my excursion was a trip down to pick up some heads of garlic that I am a month late getting into the ground and getting back to complete my task. I laughed this morning when I awakened to the sight of a dusting of snow on my garden bed. Tom’s reminder that I was running out of time was on the mark.

Luckily for all of us there are plenty more days and nights of autumn yet to enjoy various sights in the area. If nights are not your best time consider morning rides on some weekdays and most Saturdays. I know that Pat Smith has changed the usual meeting time and place for Saturday AM rides to Bruegers on Merriman Road at 8:30 with the ride starting at 9:15. Bill Brannon and several others are always coming up with new and interesting routes to keep rides interesting.

Check out the Akron Bicycle Club Ride Calendar to see what is happening.

Saturday, November 5 was a beautiful crisp fall day for the second clean up of the year. Able Adopt-A-Highway Coordinator Heidi Emhoff assembled her fellow community-spirited bikers at the Country Maid on SR 303 heading into Peninsula to tackle a season of travelers refuse who share in an enjoyment of one of our favorite valleys but are not always conscientious.

The Morning Ride Leader, Pat Smith, sent out a notice for her crew of riders to reorganize their day and join the others to share in the clean up befor heading out for lunch and a leisurely 18 mile ride around the valley.

Heidi reports that there is always a good turnout for the semi-annual clean ups. And it’s always a different mix depending on the weather and commitments.

Good job ABC Adopt-a-Highway Fall 2011 crew!

The Saturday Fall Clean Up Crew for 2011

The inclement weather was a challenge but did not stop the fun. Here are lessons learned from the second excursion to the Mountain State’s Highland country.

10 Lessons about Fall Camping in the Mountains

• Rain and low temperatures may put  cramp on mountain trail and road bicycling but there is plenty to due in this mountain paradise. Bill Greathouse, Shanna Greathouse, Tom Gaydos and Cody Smith  traveled 45 minutes to take a four hour canopy tour through the Nelson Rocks Preserve near the scenic Seneca Rocks. The tour included 12 zip line 80 to 150 feet off the forest floor, 3 sky bridges and a 40 foot rappel to the forest floor at the end.  Nancy Buchanan and I graciously gave up their places for others who joined the tour. Nancy had zip lined at Hocking Hills the weekend before and really wanted to compare the tours. Hopefully she will be able to do so next time.
• The changes in elevation can have a huge impact on the weather. Returning to the campsite after the tour from the highest elevation in the state meant traveling in the dark to what many of us saw as the first snowfall of the season. All confessed to a certain trepidation about what awaited us at the campsite. Three season tents work very well in the rain and temperatures in the mid 30′s. No one wanted to chance snow.
• When the weather is too wet, go indoors. Mike and Corinne McGroarty took advantage of the Forest Festival to see the Classic Rock concert on the Davis & Elkins campus. Mike said seeing 38 Special was a trip down memory lane. He also enjoyed the Davisson Brothers Band who warmed up the audience, This Mountain State favorite is dear to my heart since they are the sons of two of my classmates and neighbors growing up.
• Touring the Mountain State on the back of a motorcycle in the rain is no mean feat. But hardy riders Tom Wilson and Barb made a noble effort. Barb’s complaint was that the actual trip down was all interstate leaving few opportunities to actually appreciate the scenery. They actually stayed a few extra days (hopefully in the comfort of a hotel) to take in the amazing scenery. We all know that the leaf-peepers in the northeast have nothing on the fall foliage in the mountains.
• Canopies over the table and by the fire pit allowed us to enjoy the warmth of the fire and swap stories. These go on the list of necessities for the next camping trip. Even if it doesn’t rain, its nice to have them in the inventory. One camper though found that we need to beware when grabbing one off the shelf in the store. After unpacking the box, we found the canopy and no frame to support it. How many unwary campers have had to make a return trip to buy the legs?
• Nothing beats sharing a meal prepared by master camp dutch oven cook, Tom Gaydos on a cold wet night. Tom wowed us with chicken and rice and a raspberry cobbler prepared in the hot embers of the camp fire. We then learned how to clean the dutch ovens by firing and scouring the pots and then seasoning them before putting them away. While these dishes were baking, potatoes were wrapped in foil and placed in the fire for breakfast’s fried potatoes.
• Speaking of breakfast, Breakfast Chef Bill really enjoys waking the crew with a pot of strong hot coffee perked over the camp fire and the aroma of food being prepared. We needed a hardy breakfast to start the day and he delivered. Breakfast cereals brought were unopened. Instead campers were treated to selections of eggs, bacon, orange juice, coffee, tea or hot chocolate, fried potatoes with peppers, salsa, dutch oven biscuits, pancakes and the traditional Forest Festival breakfast of buckwheat pancakes.AND that coffee is perfect when prepared with the fresh mountain spring water found on the campground.
• Nancy proved that the art of layering water repellent hiking clothes really works to keep one warm and able to enjoy the outdoors. I am going to make a trip soon to the outdoor sports store soon to begin stocking up for next season. This rainy 2011 has shown that I need to be better prepared.
• Cell phone coverage is pretty good in Elkins but is non-existent in the higher elevations around Seneca. We found that this is because this area is not too far from the Green Banks National Radio Observatory where cell phones are prohibited. I have to say though that the trip to the area was breathtaking.
• Cody and Shanna were able to take advantage of the trip to spend time with Shanna’s grandparents. Since the campground would be closing in the next two weeks for the season, they would be heading to winter in Florida. An added coup for these two. A night spent in the RV snug away from the elements.

There is a peace to be found in sitting by the camp fire with your cup of coffee, some  breakfast rolls, and friends sharing the shushing of the leaves rustling in the winds and watching the deer graze in the tree-line surrounding the campsite.

Check out the photos on Facebook

For the most part we were able to enjoy the wildlife from a distance. No bears were sighted, the deer pretty much ignored us and were happy to munch maple leaves from the ground around the campsite even while we were there. The only casualty was a package of chocolate bars consumed from some very grateful raccoons during one night.

Finally,  just to make us feel like no level of planning can beat Mother Nature’s sense of humor, the next weekend was  warm, clear beautiful and sunny days with temps in the low 80′s. All in all it will be a trip to look forward to next year.

The spaceship crypt is the backyard suitably eerie for a autumnal gathering. The spaceship lands on Saturday, October 29. the crypt opens at 7:30 p.m. A map to the spaceship coordinates is posted on the home page of the club website.  It is expected that the ship will land in Stow, Ohio.

Expect a tame bonfire to chase off the chills and set the mood. In the “spirit” of the night a mysterious keg of brew will be available to ward off evil spirits. Of course, guests are encouraged to bring their own elixirs as well.

It will be an evening for frolic as guest goblins, witches, spooks and other assorted creatures of the night come decked out in their highly imaginative disguises.

A midnight feast will be prepared from the bounty brought from the guests. Please coordinate your selections with Sorceress Heidi so that there is an abundance of choices.

Parking is allowed at Chipotle.

The agenda includes the General Business from 6:30 till 7:15pm.

The  Member Informational Topic 7:15 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Triathalons and Marathons – how two ABC members/contacts got started with pushing their own limits. Our own Mark Erzen and Tiffany Deveraux Heindel will share their experiences, training, and thoughts on how to get started on “Tris” and “marys”.

For those wishing to dine together after the meeting, we will meet at Aladdin’s Eatery across from the Library.

Any questions, please contact Katherine Leckrone.

Submitted by Katherine Leckrone

Jim and Judy Birt are those unsung heroes who remain backstage but add so much to the ABC. Members for many years, Jim and Judy are the organizers of the popular Roscoe Ramble.  I caught up with them after this year’s edition of the ride to find out a little more about how these two who contribute so much to the club spend their non-ABC time.

Brenda: Jim, working with you behind the scenes, I have seen that you and Judy are dedicated to ensuring that the riders have a wonderful experience. How long does it take you to actually put all of the details in place?

Jim: The basics (dates, stops) are in place by the end of this ride for the 2012 ride. We will spend some time to recover from this ride but by January we will begin to accept registrations for next year’s ride.

Brenda: Each year presents different challenges. Last year’s was the extremely hot weather. What was the biggest challenge this year?

Jim: The weather is always a challenge. This year we had to contend with rain on Sunday. But the biggest challenge this year was housing. There were some weddings in the area that competed with us this year. Housing is difficult because this is a tourist area and Coshocton is a small town. The campground has been a large factor in allowing us to grow this ride past 100 riders. As long as some riders are willing to tent camp for the night, we can usually fit the into the ride.

Brenda: Judy, one of the highlights of the Roscoe Ramble is the interaction between the riders and the local communities. How has that evolved? I noticed this year that their were signs welcoming ABC to their businesses, churches and community.

Judy: We inherited the popular Miller-Yoder farm in Charm on Saturday. Others we have developed as the route changed and the ride grew. By now, we have strong ties in the community. The ride would not be possible without the support of the volunteer fire department and its supporters as well as the churches auxiliaries. And these groups, along with the area hotels, beds and breakfasts and restaurants do see the economic benefits of hosting us each August.

Brenda: The details to put together a ride like Roscoe Ramble would bury most people. How do you and Jim manage this?

Judy:  Jim and I are both engineers. We are details oriented so it comes to us naturally.

Brenda: Where do both of you work?

Jim: I work at Bemis and Judy works at Goodyear.

Brenda: You are very active with ABC. What do you do in your non-ABC time?

Judy: I like to cook. And we have a 1976 Triumph that we enjoy restoring when we have time.

Jim: We enjoy traveling. We take a winter vacation every year together.

Brenda: I saw the photos from last year’s ski trip on Facebook.

Judy: Jim takes a ski trip to Utah every winter with his brothers. We haven’t planned this year’s trip for us together yet. We have been to 49 of the 50 states. And we also have made several trips to Europe, Australia, and the Caribbean among other places. For our 25th anniversary I talked Jim into Hawaii. We loved it.

Brenda: It sounds lie the two of you have a very busy and fulfilling life together. I can’t wait to hear where you go this year.

So can I assume plans are going well for next year’s ride?

Judy: Absolutely. The ride will start August 11 next year. We have some interesting ideas to make it even better.

Brenda: It does get better every year. There are always a few surprises for the riders. Keep us posted about when registrations open. And thanks from a grateful club for all that you do.

Be sure to check out the photos from this year’s Roscoe Ramble on Facebook.

You can check out their report on this year’s Roscoe Ramble here.

And let Jim and Judy know how much they are appreciated in the comments below. These will also be shared on Facebook.

Before heading inside, many made a stop at the newly opened Urban Farm Market stand at the corner of the WSM property and at the head of Cleveland’s largest urban farm. This 6 acre site is the beginning of a new venture assisting immigrants and West Siders. Each acre of urban land developed for growing crops will employ 8 workers.

Once inside the venerable WSM, Akron bikers headed for their favorite shops. So many headed to the Mediteranean shop for lunch that the owner commented that bikers must find her food very healthy. Some others joined the long line for the fabulous crepes at the French food shop.

It was a wonderful, not too terribly hot day for the ride. Some headed straight back while others sampled the streets of Cleveland and even the lake before heading south again. ABC can look forward to next year’s ride and the 100th anniversary celebration of the West Side Market.

The ABC riding contingent included Tom Wilson, Bob Whittington, Randy Austin, Heidi Emhoff, Dan and Tina Maddock, Michelle Kautz, Beth Hale, Lori Box. Tom Gaydos, Mike Nelson, Gail Micsko, Dana Kalchof, Nancy Buchanan, Rich Elliot, Richard and Mike Mausser, and Robert and Brenda Kropp.

The ride was a great success due to the participation of the many volunteers from ABC.Ernie Hall created the brochure used to advertise the ride. Lori Box handled distribution of brochures to surrounding bike clubs and bike shops and served as the point person for registrations. Judy Birt handled registration of the riders and assignment of available hotel space. Eric Schultz, Bob Whittington, Bob Iden, and Pat Smith coordinated to paint road arrows over 150 miles and did a great job. We only lost Tom Wilson for a short distance.Jim Birt and Bob Iden handled luggage transport, and managed to have a lost baggage rate that was just slightly better than Slovenian Airlines. Bill and Brenda Greathouse, Judy Birt, Dana Kalchof and Barb Pratt handled SAG over the two day ride.

Blll and Brenda Greathouse brought with them everyone in their family except the dog. Then Tom Wilson brought the dog. Beauregard, who served as the first ever ride mascot, got to ride in the luggage truck with Jim Birt and Bob Iden. We found that dogs really do like trucks. Members of our surrounding clubs such as Stark County Bike Club, Lake Erie Wheelmen, Medina Bike Club, Toledo Area Bicyclists (TAB), and Cleveland Touring Club attended the ride. Representing other states were riders from 8 different states.

At the registration sites, ride participants were treated to a our first ever complimentary “Roscoe Ramble” souvenir water bottle that was filled with emergency air to be used when following Amish buggies. Shortly after starting, riders stopped at the Paint Township fire station, where Todd Lendon of the Fire Department treated them to homemade Amish pastries, including the traditional “gobs”. Lunch was held under shady trees at the Amish farm of the Miller-Yoder family in Charm, where many were entertained by the antics of the young Amish children. The morning was an easy ride under overcast clouds, keeping conditions ideal. A couple riders enjoyed a short race with some boys in a buggy (the bikes won this time). Breakdowns were few, but we had the first ever assault of a bike rider when one of our participants was injured by a B-B shot by a 7 year-old on the side of the road. The rider was treated and released after a short trip to the emergency room, and was so devoted to riding that she insisted on finishing the ride on Saturday and Sunday, which she accomplished.

This year was also the first ever Roscoe Ramble beer giveaway, when riders arriving on the north side of Coshocton were greeted by an unknown cyclist from south Cleveland who was offering free beer out of his panniers to all riders passing by. Most declined the beer and opted instead for the complimentary ice cream cone at Medbury Market in Roscoe Village. Edgar Rapp from TAB decided to try out his new Linskey frame by riding up legendary Hill street that runs west out of Roscoe Village. At the hotel, two massage therapists treated many of the arriving cyclists. Due to limited availability of hotel rooms this year, our participants were scattered amongst 6 different hotels plus a camping site. Vans transported many tired riders to Grace United Methodist Church for the dinner fare which consisted of 2 different types of lasagna as well as homemade pies and cakes. Brenda Greathouse took many pictures of the crowd during dinner when everyone’s mouth was full. These will be posted on the ABC website. Dave McKinley of ABC and Edmund Grace from Stark County Bike Club were last-minute attendees to the dinner. Jim Birt served as emcee at the feast and names were drawn “blindly” by Nancy Buchanan, who did so by keeping her glasses off. Bob Forney of Bellevue was recognized as being our first ever octogenarian on Roscoe Ramble. Many riders and SAG drivers adjourned to establishments in Roscoe Village after dinner for a pleasant evening.

Saturday night was stormy and Heidi Emhoff claimed 3 different thunderstorms roared through the campground, but the worst was over by daybreak on Sunday.

Most people departed on Sunday with one eye to the sky as it was threatening most of the day. Some brief downpours were endured, but some riders, such as Rich Elliot, felt that Sunday was ideally cool and included a favorable tailwind coming out of the south. Judy Birt, Gail Micsko, and Lori Box served up a medley of fresh fruit at Killbuck Community Park. After this stop, many riders rode the 15 mile paved stretch of the Holmes County bikeway, which almost everyone enjoyed. Some, such as Dan and Tina Maddock, took an alternate road route. Nancy Buchanan flatted out 1 mile from the end of the bikeway and was assisted by our designated sweepman, Bob Iden. Other SAG needs were minimal despite the threat of rain. Some completely lucked out during one brief downpour by being at lunch at the Apple Creek UM church. Everyone was in by 3:30 pm.

A GPS file of the 2 day ride was created and posted on the ABC website to allow those lucky riders with GPS’s to download the map file to their device prior to the weekend.

It was a very successful ride and many compliments were handed out by the returning riders. Special recognition needs to go out to Bill and Brenda Greathouse who handled the B-B incident extremely well. The injured rider’s husband referred to Bill as his “personal” SAG by the end of Saturday, which was a great compliment to Bill’s attention to them in their time of need. It was also nice to see so many of the ABC jerseys in attendance for the ride. I even had some outsiders ask where they could buy one of our jerseys because it’s such an attractive design.

Next year, we will be holding our 38th version of the ride the weekend of August 11-12, 2012. “Those that know” are aware that the best hotel accommodations go to those that register first, although we will be able to offer more hotel rooms at our primary hotel for next year. Registrations will open in January. In addition, we will need ABC members to do route painters, sag, luggage, advertising/promoting, and other activities for the ride, so please contact me if you have any interest in participating.

“We want to be your new favorite ride”

Check out the photos on Facebook

Article submitted by Jim and Judy Birt, 2011 Roscoe Ramble Co-Ride Directors

It makes sense that biking invitationals are gaining steam. The cycling community is committed to the sport and always looking for rides to get more time on the road. We also tend to be a highly plugged in to social causes. And we all are trying to get and stay healthy.

There are two approaches to the charity rides. First and largest are the rides organized to raise funds for a cause. Two taking place in the next few weeks include the Pelatonia in Columbus riding for cancer and the venerable Pedal to the Point for MS. Most national non-profits have jumped on the bandwagon.

These causes have the ability to attract thousands of riders and raise millions of dollars through pledges, entry fees and donations. They also have the backing of board members able to commit resources of their businesses an organizations. A huge undertaking but still a fun day and a reason to reach out to friends for support.

ABC has some members who are participating in both challenges. Robin McAninch is participating in the Pelatonia for the second year.  Peter Miquet and Sandra Paolucci are participating in Pedal to the Point for the first time. Show your support if at all possible by going to their websites.

There is a second way to do a charity ride. This way is much simpler for local non-profits with huge needs list but little manpower and resources. The non-profit needs to approach the local club with experience in organizing bike invitationals. The club may be able to take on another ride or, even better, take an existing event and add a donation component.

Benefits to the club are greater visiblility, a cause (or causes) to rally around and an additional way to reach out to members and the businesses that the club members support in their local communities.

Have you participated in any challenges like the Pedal to the Point or the Pelatonia? Please share your feelings with the club?

What non-profits do you support? Do you see the benefits of a bike invitational?

And, most importantly, what are the pitfalls?

Please share. Its what makes the club better!