Bicycle Touring Club of North Jersey February 2020

Cover Design by Lucien Cohen

MasterLink February 2020
Bicycle Touring Club of North Jersey Inside This Issue
President’s Message 2

President: Chuck Solomon Ramapo Rally 3

Vice President: Renie Gaddi Volunteers—80/20 Rule 3
Secretary: Judy Lustig February Membership Meeting 4
Treasurer: Len Ruvolo Anniversary Party Photo Gallery 5
Rides Captain: Geoffrey Silverstein RideSmart Instructors 7
Membership: Rich Brookler
RideSmart Training Course 8
Spec Events/Volunteer Dev: Allison Cobb
Safety Guide—Group Rides 10
Tours: Jack Carren
Warming Up and Cooling Down 11
Advocacy and Safety: John Daugherty
2 Volunteers of the Month 12
Publicity: Amy Avitabile Tour Calendar 14
Rally Chair: Vacant Narragansett RI Tour 15
MasterLink: Harriet Einschlag French Iron Creek Tour 17
Webmaster: Dave Pawlyk Quebec Province Tour 19
Past President: Marc Soloff Lake George Tour 21
Rhinebeck Tour 23

February 2020, Volume 43, Number 2. Circulation: approx. 2019 Mileage Totals 24
1,500 via electronic download. MasterLink is published 12
2020 YIR Photo Contest 26
times per year as the official publication of the Bicycle
Touring Club of North Jersey, PO Box 853, Ridgewood, NJ New Members/Classified 27
07451. Our website is www.btcnj.com. ©2017 by the Bicy-
cle Touring Club of North Jersey, all rights reserved. Minutes 28
“MasterLink”, “BTCNJ”, “BTCNJ.COM”, “Bicycle Touring Club
of North Jersey” (words and logo), and “Ramapo Rally” are Protection of the Intellectual Property of
BTCNJ® We welcome your creative sugges-
tions for promotional activities using the
Club’s brands, however, the Club’s name, slo-
gans, designs and logos are its intellectual
MasterLink Submissions: Materials for MasterLink are due the 23rd of each property, which embody the “goodwill” of the
month for publication in the following month’s issue. Please send articles, Club as developed over the years through ser-
photos, letters, or comments to MasterLink, at our email address vice to its members and the community, with
btcnj.masterlink@gmail.com. Materials may be edited by the MasterLink thanks to the volunteer efforts of countless
staff for length and clarity. Publication of materials submitted is at the dis- members. In order to preserve and protect our
goodwill, it is critical that all use of the Club’s
cretion of the Editor. All materials submitted for publication become the intellectual property be properly regulated.
property of BTCNJ®. Due to copyright laws, any articles, photos, cartoons, Please do not reproduce or simulate the Club
art, etc., that have appeared in other publications may not be published in logo, the names “BTCNJ” or “Bicycling Tour-
MasterLink without written consent of the copyright holder. Photos in Mas- ing Club of North Jersey”, or any other brands
terLink may not be reused or republished without prior permission. such as “Ramapo Rally” and “MasterLink” on
shirts, caps, jerseys, bottles, stickers, or any
other merchandise without authorization from
our Merchandise Chair, Rich Brookler

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 CLIP NOTES
By Chuck Solomon, President

Our Club is well into its fifth decade. We are the largest in the
state and, I would venture to say, one of the largest in the
country; a resounding success story by just about every meas-
urable parameter. This being said there have been those who
have suggested a name change. The Bicycle Touring Club of
North Jersey is a mouthful to say the least. Although we have
tours, tours are not the main focus of the Club. And most of
the other cycling clubs do not use “Touring” in their name.
Some have also said that our present name is a hindrance in
attracting new members.

Suggestions have included renaming the Club to The North

Jersey Cycling Club, The Cycling Club of North Jersey, or simp-
ly dropping “Touring” from our name thus becoming “The Bi-
cycle Club of North Jersey”. If we were beginning the Club today I would choose The
North Jersey Cycling Club. However we are not beginning today; and at a recent Execu-
tive Committee meeting a lively discussion resulted in the decision that keeping our
present name is the prudent thing to do.

This honors our tradition, our history and avoids confusion. And although we welcome
the views of Club members on this subject, the name Bicycle Touring Club of North
Jersey will be maintained for the foreseeable future. In the coming months we will
work on rebranding BTCNJ to hopefully attract new members and more accurately de-
scribe what our Club is all about.

2
 THE 80/20 RULE
By Renie Gaddi

There are many examples of the 80/20 rule. The one that I would like to talk about is the one that says that
80% of the work is done by 20% of the people. Recently I calculated that 100% of BTCNJ’s work is done by
10% of its members. If you add in the members who only lead rides it comes up to about 18% but that is a
special category of volunteering. We have a great club – probably the best in NJ. BTCNJ offers our members
a lot of rides, activities, social events etc. However, a club like ours can only be as good as its members and
most importantly the volunteers. Chuck, myself and the entire board are dedicated to keeping BTCNJ the
best bike club in NJ. However, we cannot do it ourselves. We need member support. Whether you’re an
original or a new club member – Whether you volunteered in the past or never volunteered before – I urge
you to step up and support BTCNJ by volunteering.

A lot of the fun of our monthly club meeting is in socializing after the formal meeting, relaxing with some
snacks, drinks and friends. However, we need volunteers to pick up the snacks and to set up and clean up
the snack tables. The club pays all the costs. So all we are asking for is a little of your time. We need vol-
unteers for the April, May, July’s ice cream social, September and November club meetings. There will be a
signup sheet at the next club meeting.

No one volunteered for the Rally Chairperson position. Therefore, the Ramapo Rally has had to
evolve from having 1 chairperson to having 3 group managers, “Plan-B”. We have volunteers for
the Routes and Food group manager positions. We still need a group manager to manage the Campgaw Group.
Without someone volunteering to be the Campgaw Group Manager it will put a lot of pressure on the existing volun-
teers and can ultimately affect how good the 2020 Ramapo Rally is. As good as the last rally was, I know everyone
wants this year’s rally to be better than last year’s. This can only happen if we have all 3 Group Managers working
on the rally in addition to all the other volunteer support.

So please, I urge you to consider, supporting BTCNJ and volunteering to bring refreshments to a club meeting, as
the Campgaw Group manager or one the many other volunteer positions needed to support BTCNJ and the Ramapo
Rally. If you have any questions or want to volunteer feel free to contact me.

Renie
renieg@gmail.com
201-805-9398

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 FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY
7:30—9:00 PM

Come join us as the Hackensack and New Milford EMS units, who assist BTCNJ not only at
the Ramapo Rally but also out on the roads where we ride, and the DQ Bike Giveaway Pro-
gram that accepts BTCNJ’s donations.

Donna Albanese, owner of the Plainfield NJ Dairy Queen,

will speak about the heartwarming work they do refur-
bishing bicycles and giving them out to children and
adults who cannot afford a bicycle and what a big change
this act of kindness has made to these people. To date,
they have refurbished and given away over 3,000 bicy-
cles. This is the first year that BTCNJ has decided to sup-
port this grass roots group.

Cosmic Wheel’s very own John and Craig will also be there to talk about
and answer any questions we may have about Gravel Bikes and eBikes.

Thanks to all those who contributed photos to the 2019 Year in Review.
Congratulations to those whose photographs were winners in the first
Annual BTCNJ Photo Contest.

Finalists: Harriet Einschlag (flowers), Lou Wassong (bike on wall), Cathy Schlanger (bike frames),
Mary Maki (one cyclist in woods), Barbara Augenblick (horses)

Contest winner: Joan Brickman (cyclists riding in line)

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BTCNJ’S 42ND ANNIVERSARY PARTY

5
BTCNJ’S 42ND ANNIVERSARY PARTY

6
 RIDESMART INSTRUCTORS NEEDED
By Don Schlenger and John Daugherty

LEND YOUR EXPERTISE TO HELP NEWER CYCLISTS LEARN HOW TO RIDE BETTER AND SAFER
BTCNJ wants everyone to ride together safely, courteously and effectively. You can help by lending
some of your time and expertise by being an instructor in the RideSmart 2020 Spring program.
RideSmart teaches riders, particularly those newer to cycling, essential individual and group bike han-
dling skills, safety, simple bike maintenance and repair, and the fundamentals of nutrition, clothing,
and bike fit for safe, competent, courteous and confident riding.
Consider joining our BTCNJ RideSmart Instructors Team and passing your knowledge and experience
to newer riders. You’ll get 10 points toward your Ride Leader jersey/kit and you’ll be contributing to
the future of BTCNJ. We will provide you with orientation and training. To be an instructor, you need
to:
1. Attend and participate in a classroom session and two instructor training rides. The dates are
shown below.
2. Lead and provide instruction to RideSmart participants for at least three of the four training rides.
If a Saturday ride is cancelled due to inclement weather, the ride would be on Sunday.
3. Be willing to learn the RideSmart approach and curriculum and teach it to the BTCNJ participants in
classroom sessions and on the rides.
4. Be able to ride at a C* pace or higher.
Program Dates:
Instructor orientation and coordination session (classroom)
Tuesday, April 6, 2020 – 2 hours in the evening, in Ridgewood
Instructor rides with RideSmart program coordinators:
Saturday, April 11, 2020 - 3 hours
Saturday, April 18 , 2020- 3 hours
BTCNJ program participant Classroom dates:
Tuesday, April 14, 2020 – Ridgewood 7PM-9PM
Tuesday, April 21, 2020 – Ridgewood 7PM-9PM
Program participant training rides (all start in Pequannock, NJ)
Saturday, April 25, 2020 – 3-4 hrs.
Saturday, May 2, 2020 – 3-4 hrs.
Saturday, May 9, 2020 – 3-4 hrs.
Saturday, May 16, 2020 – 3-4 hrs.
To volunteer to be a program instructor, or for more information, contact Don Schlenger at
aschleng@optonline.net or John Daugherty at johnwd48@yahoo.com.

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 JOIN BTCNJ’S RIDESMART RIDER TRAINING COURSE
By Don Schlenger and John Daugherty

Improve Your Bicycling Skills and Safety

April 14-May 16, 2020
BTCNJ’s 2020 RideSmart bicycle rider training course will help you improve your competence, safety
and confidence in riding on the road, both individually and in groups. The course is aimed at newer
riders, but is open to all who want to improve or refresh their skills.
By participating in this training program, you will improve your bicycle handling techniques and riding
abilities. You can become a safer, more skillful and stronger rider, and increase your enjoyment of bi-
cycling.
The course consists of:
Two classroom sessions, to be held 7:00-9:00 PM in Ridgewood:
Tuesday, April 14
Tuesday, April 21
Four on-the-road training sessions, where you will ride in a small group with a team of coaches.
The on-the-road sessions will take place starting at 9:00 AM at the Pequannock High School
parking lot, on the following (rain dates are the Sundays immediately following these dates):
 Saturday, April 25, 2020
 Saturday, May 2, 2020
 Saturday, May 9, 2020
 Saturday, May 16, 2020
What You Will Learn (and Practice):
 How to prepare your bike and yourself for a ride
 How to be visible on the road
 How to safely share the road with motor vehicles and pedestrians—motor vehicle laws, sig-
naling, handling traffic and intersections, handling difficult situations, and more
 How to ride in rain or low light conditions
 Best techniques for shifting, cadence, braking, climbing and descending, “holding the line,”
and maintaining control of your bike
 Group riding techniques and communications
 Rules and guidelines for riding safely and courteously in a group
The course will have three riding levels:
 C - Riders who comfortably ride at 11-13 miles per hour on flat surfaces.
 C* - Riders who comfortably ride at 13-15 miles per hour on flat surfaces.
 B – Rider who comfortably ride at 15-17 miles per hour on flat surfaces

8
The first on-the-road session will include a short classification ride, to ensure you are riding with par-
ticipants of similar ability. During the on-the-road sessions, you will get a chance to practice in small
groups the rules and techniques discussed in the class sessions.
Course graduates will receive two Specialized “Purist” water bottles.

Registration

The RideSmart course registration fee is $25. Registration is on a first come, first served basis based
on when payment is received. Register online on the BTCNJ website, https://ramaporally.btcnj.com/
index.php/ride-smart/. Registration may be limited, so register early. We will maintain a wait-list in
case all slots are filled and there is a cancellation.

What is Expected of Course Registrants

Registrants are expected to make a commitment to participate in all sessions. To graduate from this
program, you must not miss more than one session. All participants must attend the first on-the-road
session on April 27.
If weather cancels a ride on Saturday, it will be held on Sunday. If weather cancels a whole weekend,
we will extend the program to the next weekend.
You must have a road bike, or a hybrid bike with smooth tires (no mountain bikes), in good mechani-
cal order. You must come to the on-the-road training rides on time and appropriately dressed for that
day’s weather conditions. You must be in good physical condition and be prepared to ride for 3-4
hours. You must have a current BTCNJ membership and at all times you must follow BTCNJ’s rules.

For answers to questions or for more information, please see the BTCNJ website or contact Don Schlen-
ger at aschleng@optonline.net or John Daugherty at johnwd48@yahoo.com.

9
 SAFETY GUIDE FOR BTCNJ GROUP RIDES
By John Daugherty

The BTCNJ Advocacy and Safety Committee has put together a new BTCNJ Safety Guidelines for Group
Riding. Please note that this document correlates to all the safety issues that are included within our
RideSmart Program. We would like to acknowledge the Westchester Cycle Club for permission to use their
format for the basis of this document.

Safety Guide for BTCNJ Group Riding

The club expects all cyclists to follow these best practices on our group rides

What We Do
Ride single file whenever there is traffic on the road.
Stay as far to the right as is safe and reasonable—and not so far that you have to swerve left into traf-
fic to avoid hazards.
Hold your line: Ride directly behind the rider in front of you.
Maintain constant pedaling: Maintaining a steady pace helps the rider behind you predict your speed.
Signal well in advance before turns also audibly communicate your intentions.
Look carefully over your shoulder before signaling and pulling out into the lane. The use of a rearview
mirror will make it easier to see behind you. Don’t move if cars are in the lane or overtaking rapidly—
they have the right of way.
Before you pass another rider, make sure the lane to your left is clear and announce that you are pass-
ing with “on your left”.
When you move out to pass, have a plan for how you are going to re-enter the line of riders.
Come to a full stop at red lights—ALWAYS stop behind last car, do not pass waiting cars. You can take
lane, double file if appropriate.
Come to a stop at stop signs take turns with cars at four-way stops.
Regroup if the group gets separated at an intersection.
Move well off the road if the group stops.
Must use front and rear lights when riding in the dark that comply with NJ Bicycle Regulation 39:4-
10 (must be visible from at least 500 feet away).

We Communicate
“On your left” whenever we are passing.
“Car back” Everyone passes it up the line so all are aware “Car back” = “Single file”.
“Car up” when there is a car in the oncoming lane on a narrow road, or a stopped car in our lane.
“Slowing” so the person behind us will know to slow down Also, left hand down with palm facing rear.
“Stopping” loudly and clearly.
“Walker up” so fellow riders know to move out and give a pedestrian or jogger some space.
“Hole” “Bump” “Branch” “Debris” to warn riders behind of a hazard. Use hand signal pointing to hazard.

What We DON’T Do
Don’t Pass on the right because we cut off someone’s safe lane, and they don’t expect it. If it becomes
absolutely necessary (for instance the rider is in the far left portion of the lane) it is imperative to say “On
your right”.
Don’t Call “Clear!” at an intersection because conditions can change rapidly – each rider needs to make
their own decision about when it’s safe to go. Instead say: “I’m going” or “Going through” or “Rolling”.
Don’t Signal to drivers that it’s safe to pass the group because conditions change rapidly. (This is also
a legal issue; rider could be liable if there were a crash).
Don’t Wear headphones or earbuds because we won’t be able to hear when fellow riders communicate
with us or to hear vehicles.

10
 SAFETY GUIDE FOR BTCNJ GROUP RIDES
By John Daugherty

Don’t Use your cell phone while riding. If you must answer a call safely pull over.
Don’t Let your front wheel overlap with the wheel in front of you because if they move to the side,
you’ll go down.

Recommendations
Do not Pass on a downhill because riders who are descending may move laterally without warning to
avoid a hazard, and they won’t be able to signal in advance. If it becomes necessary to pass, it is impera-
tive that you say “Passing on your left”.
Wear bright colored clothing do not wear all black. You need to make yourself highly visible.
Use a rearview mirror this will allow you to see behind you without taking your eyes off the road. In ad-
dition to looking in the mirror, do a double check looking over your shoulder when changing lanes.
Daytime lights will make you more visible but refrain from using a flashing red rear light set to a high
brightness level as it will have a negative affect on the vision of the rider behind you.

BE SAFE OUT THERE! HAVE FUN!

We want to thank the Westchester Cycle Club for granting us
permission to use this edited version of their Guidelines for Group Rides

Warming Up and Cooling Down:

Improving Your Rides by Improving Flexibility and Fitness
By Geoffrey Silverstein

Historically, I haven’t been big on stretching. I had several injuries during high school sports relating to
stretching (bad knees I guess), so it’s never been a focus of mine. But as we age we lose flexibility. And
improved flexibility means a more comfortable ride, especially over long distances. A proper warm-up
gets our muscles and joints ready for the activity to follow. A recent article made me think of this topic.
Bicycling Magazine recommended three pre-ride stretches to get cyclists prepped for the hard miles to
follow. These exercises are:

 Low Lunge with Twist: This improves mobility of your neck and upper back, which can become tired
on long rides.
 Supine Heel Tap: Cycling requires core strength but doesn’t build core strength, so you need to work
on this off the bike. It also helps with stability and bike handling.
 Glute Bridge with Resistance Band: This builds your glutes (obviously), your largest muscle and a
key cycling muscle.

You can see how to do the exercises here: https://www.bicycling.com/training/

a30504446/preride-warmup-exercises/

Post-ride, you should also be stretching your quads and hamstrings, calves,
glutes, neck and back, to aid in recovery. You can see demos of post-ride
stretches here from Global Cycling Network:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VCM7xnL2QY

I’m going to incorporate these exercises into my pre-and post-ride routines. I

hope that you do the same.

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 2 VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH
MARGARET FONTANA AND RALPH PANTUSO
By Allison Cobb

A s we kick off a new year, BTCNJ recognizes

two members as Volunteers of the Month
for January 2020: Margaret Fontana and
Ralph Pantuso. They’re being recognized for lead-
ing the Arden Valley Training Rides each year,
which constitutes a significant time commitment
and has prepared countless members to complete
one of the hardest rides of the year.
Before I talk about Ralph and Margaret,
let’s learn more about the Arden Valley Hill Festi-
val, which typically takes place the weekend be-
fore the Ramapo Rally. If you can complete the
Arden Valley Hill Festival, you should have no
problem completing the Rally’s Metric or Century
routes. Talk about an efficient way to train!
Did I mention that both the Arden Valley
Hill Festival and the Ramapo Rally are held in Au-
gust? The 76-mile Arden Valley Hill Festival starts
from Ramsey, NJ , heading into Harriman State
Park in Rockland County, NY. Arden Valley refers
to Arden Valley Road which is a 5-mile long climb
that goes from Route 17 up to the Tiorati Lake
recreation area in Harriman State Park.
The Arden Valley Training Rides, or ATVR
for short, are listed as B-level rides. Miss one of
the training rides? There are 11 or so to get you
ready. With Ralph as the leader and Margaret as
the co-leader, you can see what a huge time com-
mitment is involved.

W hen I asked Ralph about the origin of the

AVTR, he related: The Arden Valley
Training Rides grew out of the original
Arden Valley Ride which was just a single ride that
took place in mid to late August. The first Arden
Valley Ride was back in 2005 and it was the final
training ride in preparation for a week-long bicy-
cle tour across Pennsylvania. Over the next few
years the Arden Valley ride was used as a final
training ride for the Ramapo Rally century ride.
The idea for adding a few training rides to help
people prepare for the main Arden Valley ride and
the Ramapo Rally started when Margaret joined
Ralph as a co-leader in 2011. However, they didn't
add the "official" training rides until 2015. In
2015 there were 2 AVTRs and they kept on add-
ing AVTRs each year and last year there were a
dozen AVTRs.

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 VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
MARGARET FONTANA AND RALPH PANTUSO
By Allison Cobb
More than 100 people have completed the Margaret’s first bike is a blue Gary Fisher
Arden Valley since 2005 and many people have mountain bike. She still has it. It’s in good condi-
done the ride several times. After 14 years of Ar- tion and she still rides it around the neighbor-
den Valley rides, several traditions have been es- hood, on trails and at the beach. Ralph’s first real
tablished: The Quick Chek stop, pacelining along bike, i.e. a ten speed, was a Trek 660, a steel
Greenwood Lake Turnpike, the Long Meadow Fire framed sport touring bicycle, purchased in 1989.
Station water break, lunch on the rocks, cheers at
Margaret’s favorite thing about BTCNJ is
the top of Arden Valley Road, further climbing up
the group rides with fantastic people that have
Kanawauke Road "What?!? More hills?", screaming
become friends over the years. Everyone is so
down Gate Hill Road, group photo at the mailbox-
friendly! Ralph cites all of the great friends that
es and ice cream and lemonade at Wendy's. With
he’s made over the years as his favorite thing
the hot August weather there have been several
about the club.
mad sprints along Saddle River Road in vain at-
tempts to beat the late afternoon rain. When Ralph and Margaret aren’t leading
rides, they stay pretty active. Margaret enjoys hik-
Margaret adds, “Each of the training rides
ing, walking for miles, and riding her bike at the
are geared towards challenging us to push our-
beach or a quiet park. She and her husband Richie
selves a bit harder to become stronger and more
enjoy going to concerts, listening to music (he’s a
fit. Although difficult, we are always there to moti-
musician) and spending time with friends. She al-
vate and encourage every rider to finish, which is
so enjoys baking cookies. Ralph says he would
a great feeling of accomplishment. And most of
like to have one of Margaret’s home-baked cook-
the routes are scenic with beautiful, quiet country
ies, to go along with the terrific lasagna she cooks
roads. More importantly, we have fun!”
when they plan out the AVTR schedule. Ralph and
Now let’s learn more about the ride lead- his wife, Eva have a new grandson, TJ. As many of
ers, who give up ¼ of the weekends they have us know, Ralph is a jazz aficionado.
each year to make our riders stronger.
Ralph and Margaret, your time and commit-
Ralph joined BTCNJ in 1980 to be part of ment to the club speaks volumes. Not only do you
the cycling community, meet new friends and invest a lot of time with the AVTR, but you have
learn the roads of Bergen and Rockland Counties. invested in our club members as well. Thank you
Margaret joined in May 2000. She was an avid for this huge commitment.
walker and a runner and broke her foot. Her
And club members…be on the lookout for
brother encouraged her to get a bike and a hel-
the first AVTR on the schedule coming out in the
met and just go out and meet other riders and
spring.
ride. Sorrento’s is the deli stop of choice for
both Margaret and Ralph.

13
 TOUR TALK
By Jack Carren

2020 Tours

TOUR DATES STATUS

Miami to Key West March 7 - March 14 Waitlisted

Southern Vt May 22 - May 25 Waitlisted

Narragansett RI May 29 - May 31 Open

Lancaster Pa June 5 - June 7 Open

French Iron Creek June 12 - June 14 Open

Canada July 10 - July 19 Open

Lake George July 24 - July 26 Open

Gettysburg Pa Sept 11 - Sept 13 To Be Announced

Amagansett NY Sept 25 - Sept 27 To Be Announced

Rhinebeck NY October 2 - October 4 Open

We have ten Tours now scheduled for 2020. These tours will sell out fast. When all the final de-
tails are worked out you will see the write up in the MasterLink and the tours will be posted on
the website. Southern Vermont and Lancaster are now open and will sell out fast:; Key West sold
out in less than a week.
Southern Vermont is now sold out. Linda is starting a waitlist. With four months to go there could be
a few dropouts. If you are still interested in joining the tour send your payment to Linda and she
will add you to the list.

If you don’t see a tour from the past that you enjoyed or have a favorite area you would like to
share with fellow club members, we still have plenty of open weeks. The club offers a great in-
centive program and we can help you plan the tour.
Just a reminder that all Tours are first posted in the MasterLInk so that all our members
have an equal chance to sign up for our Tours before they sell out.

14
 TOUR TALK

2020 Narragansett Rhode Island Ocean Front Tour

Friday May 29 - Sun May 31, 2020
Flat with Rolling hills and some climbing
25 – 75 mile rides available
The Atlantic House, Narragansett, RI http://www.theatlantichouse.com
It’s a new Decade with a familiar tour!
We are thrilled to announce that we have once again secured
the “newly renovated” Atlantic House as our 2020 location for
the fifth Narragansett, Rhode Island Weekend Tour. Once
again, this scenic oceanfront destination will be our location
for a variety of easy to challenging, but all beautiful rides.
Narragansett Rhode Island located just 2 ½ hours from North-
ern NJ has long been a popular destination for beachgoers,
fishermen and all outdoor sports enthusiasts. The cycling op-
tions are vast and feature mostly flat terrain with rolling hills
and some optional challenging climbs, all with beautiful ocean
vistas and even some lighthouse views. Besides cycling you
can opt to explore, shop, swim, surf or just relax and gaze at
the ocean.

Surrounded by multiple dining and drinking options within easy walking distance, our accommo-
dations are once again located right on the sea wall offering deluxe rooms which have been re-
cently updated, some of which may have a partial water view (not guaranteed). All rooms fea-
ture individual climate control, microwave ovens, small refrigerators, hair dryers, coffee makers,
irons and ironing boards and color television with cable reception with free parking. You are
free to have your bike share your room or keep it in your car!

Included in the price will be our world-famous post-ride happy hour on Friday overlooking the
ocean. Saturday after riding will be a slightly more casual get together at the hotel before our
group dinner. Both Friday and Saturday events will include snacks, beer and wine and some ad-
ditional surprises. This year’s Saturday event will unfortunately NOT be at the Coast Guard
House as last year’s space is under construction. We will determine a new location for this year.

Space is initially limited to 30 rooms, includ-

ing 8 with 2 beds, 1 with a pullout as a sec-
ond bed and the rest single king or queen
beds. Additional rooms may become availa-
ble only after the initial 30 are committed.
With your payment, please be specific as to
whether you want a room with 2 beds (w/
roommate) or 1 bed (couples or very close
friends). Unfortunately, we cannot guaran-
tee king beds but send in payment early for
your best chance at a king. Additional
nights are available.

15
 TOUR TALK

2020 Narragansett Rhode Island Ocean Front Tour

Friday May 29 - Sun May 31, 2020

Contact the hotel directly for additional nights.

Total cost of tour: $285 per person (double occupancy) includes Friday and Saturday happy
hours, welcome goodie bag and Saturday Group Dinner. Due to the limited space and the tour’s
past popularity, payment in full is required to secure a reservation. Reservations will be as-
signed to the first 60 people on a first received basis.

Send payments to: Peter Cafaro

JBD Inc, 700 School St, Unit 2, Pawtucket, RI 02860

Peter Cafaro: 401-862-9001 pcafaro@jbdandjga.com

Rosemary Panno: 201-736-9200 panr830@aol.com

Cancellation policy – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY – there will be no exceptions!

Refunds will be offered prior to May 1 only if the spot can be filled (there is usually a waiting list
but no guarantee). ABSOLUTELY NO REFUNDS WILL BE OFFERED FOLLOWING MAY 1, 2020. If you
must cancel at that time, you will be responsible to secure your own replacement and handle
any financial transaction directly with them and provide written notification including the re-
placement’s name and contact information to the tour leaders.

16
 TOUR TALK

French Creek Iron Tour, Phoenixville, PA

http://www.irontour.org
Registration opens January 22, 2020
Friday, June 12 - Sunday, June 14, 2020

This is the sixth year that BTCNJ riders will join the
French Creek Iron Tour, sponsored by the French &
Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust. A little bit of a
unique approach to a weekend tour, you are re-
sponsible for booking your hotel and registering
for the tour. We collect no money. The tour occurs
on Sunday, June 14, and again we are making a full
weekend in Phoenixville for those who can join us.

French Creek Iron Tour – Cycling for Open Space

and Trails
Sunday, June 14, 2020. Information and registration
at www.irontour.org
Kimberton Fire Company Fairgrounds, Phoenixville,
PA
Join over 1,000 riders for scenic cycling through Iron Furnace country and have a blast! French &
Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust preserves, protects and connects people to the land in
northern Chester County where iron blast furnaces and forges served as cornerstones of indus-
try in colonial Pennsylvania – hence, “Iron Tour”. When you ride in the Iron Tour, you have a di-
rect impact on the preservation of the pristine countryside that surrounds you. Since 1967,
French & Pickering has protected over 12,850 acres in northern Chester County. Introduced
last year, the Gravel Grinder! This 70-mile ride includes the most scenic gravel roads and trails
in the area. With courses ranging from 11 to 100 miles, there’s a ride for everyone!

Ride Features
Rides for all levels, from beginners to accomplished cyclists
11, 20, 32, 50, 62, 75, and 100 mile road course options
A gravel ride of 64 miles with approximately 40% on gravel - recommended for experienced rid-
ers
Well marked courses and cue sheets
SAG support
Quiet, lightly traveled roads and scenic countryside

Amenities: ***Fully stocked rest stops (beverages,

fresh fruit, snacks) ***Free T-shirt if you register by 5
p.m., May 28th ***Free lunch after the ride

17
 TOUR TALK

French Creek Iron Tour, Phoenixville, PA

For those who want to make it a full weekend, we are planning a ride for Friday starting at 1:00
p.m. Route and start location to be determined. There will be an optional group dinner, proba-
bly in downtown Phoenixville (individual pay).

All others can meet us on Saturday at the Hampton Inn at 10:00 am (10:15 departure) for the
Schuylkill River Trail Loop to Philadelphia for a maximum of a 52 mile ride. By popular demand,
we are repeating our lunch spot at In Riva for outdoor dining along the river and trail. A Group
Saturday Dinner will be planned (individual pay).

REMINDER:
You are responsible for registering for the French Creek Iron Tour. Registration opens January 22.

Hampton Inn & Suites Valley Forge/Oaks

(We will be staying here.)
100 Cresson Boulevard, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, 19460
Phone Number: 1-610-676-0900
http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/pennsylvania/hampton-inn-and-suites-valley-forge-oaks-
PHLVYHX/index.html

REMINDER:
You are responsible for booking your own hotel reservation. NOTE: You receive a discount when you
sign up for the Honors Program at the Hampton Inn. AARP and AAA members have also received dis-
counts. My accountant husband (Bill) suggests you make a cancelable reservation, then check the
rate as it gets closer to the weekend as the rate usually goes down. A cancelable reservation allows
you to cancel if needed or if weather is inclement.

Please RSVP to either Peggy or Cynthia and let us know that you have signed up for the tour, name
of hotel where you are staying if different than the Hampton Inn & Suites, and if you wish to be in-
cluded in both/either the Friday and Saturday dinners.

Final information to be provided prior to the weekend tour.

Cynthia MacVicker - cmacvicker@optonline.net

Peggy Telgheder - peggytelgheder@aol.com

18
 TOUR TALK

Quebec Province Sampler

Montreal, the Eastern Townships and the Laurentians
Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 19, 2020
Take in European ambiance and pedal into history in some of the
most beautiful areas of Quebec Province. Experience French joie
de vivre just over the Vermont border. Sample some of Mon-
treal’s rich culture. Ride the famous Route Verte and Quebec’s
amazing network of bike routes and trails along the Saint Law-
rence River and through the Laurentian Mountains and the Appa-
lachian foothills.

Highlights of the trip include:

 Riding on portions of Quebec’s famous Wine Route, with

stops at a few of the more than twenty vineyards, known for
their unique ice wines and ciders as well as red and white
wines.

 The quaint and trendy ski resort towns of Bromont and Saint
Sauveur.

 Magog, known as the “jewel box of the townships,” with its vibrant main street filled with
boutiques and restaurants, beaches, and lake-front walking and cycling paths.

 A ride along the shores of Lake Memphrémagog to the lakefront Abbeye Saint-Benoît-du-Lac,
famous for excellent cheeses and apple cider, where Benedictine monks have worked and
lived since the early part of last century.

 Cycling along the along the Trans-Canada Trail, the world’s longest recreational trail, as well
as the Petit Tren de Nord bike trail, dotted with cafes.

 The city of Sherbrooke, with its delightful architectural heritage, art galleries and excellent
museums

 Montreal, with its bustling music, food and arts scenes, as well as its Just for Laughs Comedy
Festival.

19
 TOUR TALK

Quebec Province Sampler

Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 19, 2020
Our tour starts in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, approximately 6 hours’ drive from Bergen County,
with a meet and greet on Friday afternoon. The terrain varies from flat to moderately hilly, and
the distances are 40-55 miles per day. You must be at least a strong C* rider planning to ride
daily to the next destination.

The cost is approximately $850 per person. This will include lodging (double occupancy), sup-
port vehicle and related expenses, and some meals. A limited number of van transportation
seats to and from Sainte-Jean-sur-Richelieu (including bicycle transport) are available for $135
round trip. Please send deposit of $400 ($450 if you want to reserve a place in the van for you
and your bicycle) made out to Susan Flaxman, 4090 Caissons Court, Enola, PA 17025. Tour is
limited to 20, and a wait-list will be maintained. Reservations will be on a first come-first served
basis with deposit. Final payment will be due May 15, which will be the cutoff date for registra-
tion. No refunds after June 15 unless we can fill your space.

Leaders: Don Schlenger (aschleng@optonline.net, 973-953-3083)

Tom Wieser (twieser@optonline.net, 908-512-2687)
Sue Flaxman (sflaxman@gmail.com, 717-303-6522)

20
 TOUR TALK

Beautiful Lake George Weekend

July 24th-26th 2020

If you love fabulous scenic biking trips along rivers,

lakes and mountains, with lots of great food and tre-
mendous fun, including tubing down the lazy Hudson
River, then you should consider joining our memora-
ble weekend.

The weekend will include a 25-30 mile bike ride Friday

afternoon. There will be a wine and cheese party
around 5:00. Afterwards, we suggest the 10 minute
car ride to downtown Lake George for dinner, where
you have your choice of many restaurants as well as
the excitement of crowds and outdoor concerts in the
square.

After your choice of rides from 16 to 65 miles

on Saturday, we will enjoy another wine and
cheese gathering followed by a buffet dinner
cruise with music and dancing on the Lac du
Saint Sacrement while viewing the spectacular
scenery along Lake George

Sunday we will drive to our destination in the

Town of Lake Luzerne—the Adirondack Tubing
Company. First we will all bike around this scenic
town, with several spectacular waterfalls and his-
toric bridges (a relaxing 25 miles or more if you
prefer). Upon returning to Adirondack Tubing, we
will change into swim gear and have a fun-filled
hour tubing down the Hudson "lazy river" with
guides to push us along (for those who wish to
take a nap). Upon returning, a delicious barbecue will be ready for us.

There are rides for all levels.

21
 TOUR TALK

Beautiful Lake George Weekend

July 24th-26th 2020

You will have the choice of being a guest at the Super 8 Motel (a continental breakfast is includ-
ed but we add lots of other “yummies”) or camping across the street at the beautiful River View
Campground. We will be leaving our bikes in our cars in the parking lot right outside the motel.

The cost for everything is $240 per person (double occupancy at the motel). Campers’ fees will
be adjusted afterwards. IF YOU WANT TO CAMP WE NEED TO KNOW IMMEDIATELY SO WE CAN
BOOK YOUR SITE.

We have limited our guests attending, so if you are interested please send your check as soon as
possible to Cindy Golembuski 269 East Halsey Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054.

We look forward to being together for a memorable weekend.

Rita Carren ritaj2@aol.com
Cindy cgolembuski@aol.com

22
 TOUR TALK

Rhinebeck NY
October 2nd to October 4th

Come join us as we ride through scenic

Dutchess county NY. Our base, Rhinebeck, is
less than two hours north of NYC. Rides
range from approx. 25 to 50 miles of varied
terrain at C or C* pace.

Cost, based on double occupancy, is $235

pp. This includes two nights lodging, Satur-
day dinner party, two continental breakfasts,
and more.

To reserve your spot, send $235 pp to either

Richard Fine or Amy Hass, at 107 W86 St
apt.10 G, New York, NY 10024. Please in-
clude your phone, email, and postal address.
Make sure your club membership is current for the weekend.

Contact leaders for more info:

Richard Fine richardfine42@hotmail.com

Thank you. Richard and Amy

23
 2019 MILEAGE TOTALS

Glenn P Matano 12601 The mileage was up to 09/26/2019 accident; needed hip surgery. Back on the bike; limited
mileage but looking forward to 2020
Howard Goldman 10083
Bob Eaches 9126 Degenerated discs - endorphins - perfect together. Thank you Greg, Ralph, Patty, Victor. The
culmination of 10 years of retirement. Hoping for a great 2020 for everyone.
Ruben Perez 7591
Paul Nylund 7261
Michael Mauel 6880 Yes: I finished the 100 mi course at the 2019 Ramapo Rally (but the heat and humidity made
for a slog-slow final 20 miles.)

Thanks for the good work of the BTCNJ to promote safe cycling!
Rick Timiraos 6800
Christopher Freeman 6415 Completed my first Arden Valley ride, my first Century and first ride to top of Perkins Memorial
Drive.
Fred Bennett 6003 Almost all of those miles were with clubs.
Allison Cobb 5902 Outdoor miles only.
Marcy Squadron 5814 Fun year, thanks BTCNJ!
Mario Barrena 5797 Great Year. Thank you Ed H for allowing me to co-lead B*.
Don Fracapane 5580 This was a healthy year of steady riding. Thanks to all my riding friends who made this a good
year.
Lou Wassong 5336 Another great year of safe riding with the club. Total elevation 171,000 & burned 209,064 calo-
ries. Looking forward to 2020 & more adventures on my travels.
Ken Levins 5087 No Junk Miles!
Robert Miller 4732
Anthony Grisafi 4555 Short of my 5,000 mile goal but I hope riding more with the club this year will help me reach
that goal.
Joseph Rizzuto 4036
Jeff Brand 4035
Keith Schlanger 4003 Hit my goal of 4000 miles for the year. I really wanted to go for 4500, but with all the traveling
this year and not one Century ride, I'll take the 4000. 2020 goal 4500
Michael Pinker 4002 Thanks to all my friends who made this possible--excelsior!

24
 2019 MILEAGE TOTALS

James G Gilbert 3650

Stuart Falls 3640 Missed 6 weeks of riding due to trips and illness.
Tom Beringer 3500
Mary Ann Brand 3500
Bogdan Nita 3164 I joined BTCNJ in April 2019.
Harriet Einschlag 2930 Fun bike trips. Multiple hiking trips reduced mileage this year.
Peter Cafaro 2823 I will do better this year - I hope!
Glenn Barnes 2759
Geoffrey Silverstein 2578 Biggest climbing day was AOTC, 6,500 feet.

Kenneth Solomon 2574 I improved my average speed from 14.9 to 15.4!

Sal Rizzo 2552 Not as many miles as I hoped for, in 2019 but still better than the year before. I still had 72
rides for the year. August was my big month with 11 rides & close to 400 miles for that
month!
Len Ruvolo 2375 Of my Total, 1910 came after my 6/21/19 retirement date (yay)
Isaac Stackell 2350
Marie Domingo 2300 Emotional support miles lol. Thanks to the all leaders and sweeps and BTCNJ members for such
a fun year.
Kathy Friedman 2103 First year recording miles. Like to think I may have missed a few. Proud of what I rode and rec-
orded! Here's to 2020!
Laura Haftek 2000
Israel Vargas 1600 The Good: 500+ more trainer miles, two BTCNJ weekend tours, GS Medio Fondo, Ramapo Rally
(metric), no injuries; The Bad: no rides over 100km; The Ugly: dealing w/ sciatica

Eric Lopaty 1502

Allen Grunthal 1455 Includes a week-long ride across southern Spain.
Mary Maki 1049 Hmmm Not many miles this year, but.... I did what I could doooo...
John Skelly 1006 First time I made 1,000 miles since the 1970's. Goal is more miles next year.
Domenick Stampone 1000

25
 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW PHOTO CONTEST

The 2020 Photo Contest is going to be bigger and better!

Photos to be considered for the contest need to be submitted specifically for each of the contest cate-
gories. Each contributor for the contest can submit a maximum of ten images. As an example if you
submit eight in one category you can only submit two additional pictures in any of the other catego-
ries.

The person submitting the images will be eligible for the contest. This means if you submit a group
photo, even though it was taken by a stranger walking their dog, you are the potential prize winner.

Contest Categories:

Best Rally Photo - the best photograph taken the day of the Ramapo Rally at the Rally.

Best Group Photo - The most creative and interesting photo taken of a group on a BTCNJ ride or tour.

Best Portrait - A photo of a single BTCNJ member in a riding context.

Best Action Picture of Riders - Action picture of a rider or group of rider on a ride. You may have to
get off your bike for this one.

Best Picture of someone not riding a bike - This picture has to be taken on a BTCN ride, event or
tour. It can be a scenic, still life, a bike, point of interest, etc.

Images submitted should be Jpegs and please keep copies for yourself. Images may be used in other
BTCNJ media.

THE RIDE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

NEW PALTZ NY JUNE 27/JUNE 28, 2020
The Ride for Mental Health is one of the first charity bike rides in the country where the proceeds
raised will be donated to McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate, for the education, re-
search and treatment of mental illness including anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depres-
sion, eating disorders and substance abuse.

The ride also seeks to end the stigma surrounding mental illness through education and awareness.
The promotion of this ride is a start. Many if not most of us are touched by close friends and rela-
tives who have suffered with one type or another of mental illness.
The full fee is $150 but there is currently a 50% discount for registering prior to April 1. Fee in-
cludes both days’ rides, a free jersey, rest stops and post
ride luncheon.

https://www.bikereg.com/the-ride-for-mental-health-2020

26
 MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to New Members who joined in January!

Paisi Raul Passaic NJ

Fischer Elliot Montclair NJ
Frank Dave Township of Washington NJ
Lorie Dennis Wayne NJ
Fusion Cycles Bikeshop Tenafly NJ

Road Bike for Sale:

Marin Venizia bicycle. Aluminum frame, carbon fiber forks and seat stays, 58cm frame,triple crank. excellent
entry level machine...got me started way back when. Needs tires.$100 or best offer.

Ed Howard: ehhjr@hotmail.com, 201-887-5853

Thule Roof Rack System

Complete Thule roof rack designed for vehicles with factory side rails, easy to install with turn of the Foot
Pack handle: Thule 50” square cross bars (2) with end caps (4); Thule 450 Rapid Crossroad fully locking
Foot Pack (4) plus Thule one key system (4 matching locks and 2 keys). $215

Locking Thule fork mounted bike carrier for square cross bars (lock and 2 keys). $90

Bike carrier can be used for disc brake bikes via Thule or Yakima thru axle adapter.

Bob Harris Caldwell area rpjharris@gmail.com 732.586.2116

THULE T2 Classic Bike Rack,

Platform hitch (2 bikes, 2" receiver), very good condition, for all types of bikes. Includes locks and extender.
$150.

Rich Cohen, cohenrs@optimum.net; 973-714-4242.

27
 BTCNJ Executive Committee
Summary of Minutes – January 7, 2020

Present
Chuck Solomon, President
Renie Gaddi, Vice President
Judith Lustig, Secretary
Richard Brookler, Membership
Keith Schlanger
John Daugherty, Advocacy and Safety
Don Kaplan
Jack Carren, Tours
Allison Cobb, Volunteer Development and Special Events
Amy Avitabile, Public Relations
Geoffrey Silverstein, Rides Captain
David Pawlyk, Webmaster

Absent
Harriet Einschlag, MasterLink
Len Ruvolo, Treasurer

The meeting was called to order at 7:05 by Chuck Solomon, President

PRESIDENT
 Chuck raised the possibility of changing the name of the club in an effort to attract new members
who might question whether a club with “touring” in the name is for them. A discussion was had
and several board members did not feel that changing the name would have the desired effect and
might be too expensive to be worth it. The suggestion was raised to use just the existing initials
of the club along with a codicil indicating what the club is about ie. cycling. Amy will confer with
others regarding a possible new graphic design for the name to rebrand it.

 A “New Members Day” will take place on May 16, rain date May 17. The venue is to be selected.
There will be a ride along with refreshments, orientation and a mini Ride Smart talk. The Board
voted to allocate $750 for this endeavor. The desired goal would be to have additional new mem-
bers join up on the spot.

 Chuck raised the topic of “Classifieds”. The Board decided to allow classified ads from members
for goods and services directly related to cycling to be published in the ELetter. It was felt they
would be more visible than if included in the MasterLink.

28
 Chuck raised and it was voted upon to allocate up to $200 for prizes for the best pictures submit-
ted for the “Year in Review”.

VICE PRESIDENT
 Renie notified the Board that the Ridgewood Library is booked with another engagement during the
time of our March general meeting so the decision was made to move the May Happy Hour to
March. The venue is to be selected.

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL EVENTS

 As of today 125 people have signed up for the Anniversary Party.
 The Volunteer of the Month has been selected………..stay tuned.
 Start to consider if you might want to volunteer for the Fitness Expo at the Meadowlands in June,
more information to follow.

TOURS
 Jack informed us that there is some question as to whether or not we are covered for the long
cross country tour proposed for 2021. This is being investigated by our Treasurer, Len.

RIDES CAPTAIN
 There were 41 fewer rides in 2019 compared to 2018, a drop of 2.1%.
 There were no F rides this year and the biggest drop occurred in the D category (70.8%). There
were only 7 D rides this year. We talked about trying to increase the number of D rides, especially
early in the season when we are actively recruiting new members who are the ones most likely to
want them.
 There was a 32.9% drop in A rides, a 10.4% drop in B* rides, a 1.2% drop in B rides, a 1% increase in
C* rides, and a 31.6% increase in C rides.
 Overall however, there was a 6.8% increase in the number of riders for the year. (net positive 726)
 The Ride Leader Jerseys should be ready in April.

MEMBERSHIP
In 2019 :
 239 new members joined
 843 renewed their membership – 74 for 3 years, 147 for 2 years, 632 for 1 year.
 366 memberships expired, of those 76 never signed up for even one ride.
 All told there is a net loss of 127 memberships this year.
 Rich brought up several ideas as to how we can improve our membership. Among them were:
Create a tour leader training course, encourage more rides with after ride social options ie. eating,
distribute business cards instead of brochures, brainstorm with bike shop owners/managers re-
garding membership ideas.

29
PUBLIC RELATIONS
 Amy suggested advertising the Ramapo Rally as soon as possible so people do not make other plans for
that time frame. Renie will discuss with Barbara the date for early registration which typically begins in
April and see if that can be opened earlier.

 Amy suggested considering a “Registration Blitz” for the 2021 Ramapo Rally immediately after the 2020
Rally is completed.

SAFETY AND ADVOCACY

 The current “BTCNJ Guidelines for Group Riders” merges safety guidelines and participant re-
sponsibilities into one document. For the sake of clarity and emphasis, it is being replaced by
two new documents entitled “Safety Guide for BTCNJ Group Riding” and “BTCNJ Ride Participant
Responsibilities”. The new safety guide was devised by the Safety Committee and correlated
with Ride Smart.

 Chuck suggested advertising on the website that new safety guidelines were created and to put
the guidelines in an easily accessible place without having to dig too deeply into the website for
them.

RIDE SMART
 Don discussed the objectives of the Ride Smart program which are to recruit new members, im-
prove safety, encourage “group think” on rides, and to create a better public image among mo-
torists. (To name a few.)
 The goal is to recruit at least 10 instructors, we have 6 to date and at least 30 participants.
 Instructor orientation and rides are:
Tuesday, April 6 instruction in the evening
Saturdays, April 11, 18 for rides with Ride Smart coordinators
 Classroom sessions are in the evening, Tuesdays, April 14, 21
On the road training sessions are Saturdays, April 25, May 2, 9, 16
 Don also discussed needed publicity strategies and review of program effectiveness and pricing.

The meeting was adjourned by Chuck, at 9:00 pm.

Respectively submitted,
Judith Lustig,
Secretary

30