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March 20 2005 Good Sunday to all. I am starting to feel human again, which is nice. I have been working hard at the promotion of our new marketing web site for everything you need to ride your sled or your bike! The site is not ready to be released yet, but don't worry, I will tell you all about how you can support this web site by purchasing your next helmet or snowmobile accessory online! The weather here is cool and damp.. about 60 F. The sunshine has all but vanished for the past week, But soon it will return. We need the rain to avoid forest fires this summer.. So let it rain. The scuttlebutt in St-Zenon is juicy as usual. The Crapanon Motel still has guests, and the groomers are STILL working! The trails are fantastic, and there is no one on them. This happens almost every year.. The best is wasted. There is a ton of snow in St-Zenon still. The trail to the village is still closed, and the court case is on. The local home owner will have to fight to keep the trail closed. He is holding our community hostage. The BISTRO STEAK HOUSE may have a new lease on life, as my friend, the lovely Lory, has taken over as manager, and will reopen it May first. Under her able management, I guarantee you that we will all wanna be there next winter, eating and spending our cash. Finally, the town's best eatery will be run right. What else is new? Hmmm, Crazy Al's transmission recently jumped out of his big Dodge Cummings, and will set him back about 3,000! Ouch. What a kick in the schnakers. Ahhh.. hmmmm... Oh yeah... the Zen Shack is up for grabs again. 60,000 Canadian will take her. If I don't get it sold in a few months, I will stick her on e-bay. That's about it for now. The warm weather could hit any day now, but there is so much snow on an excellent base, that it will take weeks to demolish our trails in the woods. xoxox zen
March 16th 2005 Crazy Al tells me that the area is a ghost town, but the trails are still great. He rode up to the Repos for a few days (with a lady friend!) The rumours are flying! Does Al have a new love in his life! HAhahah! Here in Vernon, there is still sledding up on Hunter's Range. Down here in town, the lows are about 40F and the daily highs around 60F. All the crocuses and tulips are busting through the earth, and will be blooming in a week or so. I am still fairly beat up, but I am
walking every day with the heart smart crowd at the arena every morning...
I have to loose twenty pounds this summer and get into shape. Sitting
at a computer for four months is not good for me. Next winter I will
have to do something differently. Who knows what the future holds for our sport.. certainly more trail closures and complaints from the green belt. Oh well, we have the summer to think it over! Enjoy the spring! zw
Thursday March 10 2005 Crazy Al says that there are still groomers on the trails, and he figures this will be the case for another two weeks. As long as the Cabatrap has clients, there will be trails for them , to ride around it. I haven't had much to say about theft this winter, as you know, mainly because I didn't hear much. Once a week perhaps, some news got to me of a theft, whereas last year, I got news every day. This may indicate that there was less theft than usual. As usual, the bigger places got most of the theft, except of course, Real Masse, which had non that I heard about. The Cabageron has several, and the Central too, and a few at the Glaciere. Motel M had a few too. Like I say, I didn't hear much this year. The people that DID get robbed however, suffered the same as usual. Their holidays were cut short in most cases, and they of course had to suffer great inconvenience, and the weeks of hassle trying to get things straightened out with the insurance companies. I heard that some companies refused to cover sleds in Quebec. This is probably true. The bulletin boards on the net this year were full of theft stories in various places, and under various circumstances; it's enough to break your heart. It makes me wanna start a web site called "Stolen Sleds" dot com. Personally, I would like to set up a sting operation. I would leave two brand new sleds out in an obvious spot, and hide in a snow blind with a high powered riffle. Then I would simply shoot the first thieves that came into view. I would put one round in each leg of each thief. I would then emerge from the bush with a framing hammer, and inflict multiple claw mark wounds to every limb. Then I would Shave their heads, with a portable electric dog groomer, and apply spray paint their heads and faces with florescent yellow paint. Then I would fire up my chain saw, and cut off their right hands. Oh, one more thing. I would leave them naked in the snow with their wounds. Multiple mutilated frozen corpses tend to make people talk. My, you say, that Zenwaiter has a nasty streak in him! Yes I do. People that hurt my American friends, hurt me. Can you imagine the stir it would make in the criminal community when these two creeps got out of hospital and the word got out, (if they survived)? Revenge Fantasy Mode: OFF. Well, on that happy cheerful note. I will go back to my other Internet work, so I can make a living. I will be promoting the sale of HJC products and more this spring summer and fall. Be sure to check back here from time to time, as I will be posting thoughts. Thanks for all the e-mails this week from well wishing members, on my summer living here in the Okanagan. Oh one more thing... Dr C., please take me off your mailing list, I don't have time to read all your political stuff, it just blocks my mail box.
Thanks! zw
Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 Groomers still grooming anything that is around the
Cabatrap. I know this from the Club president's character, not because
someone told me. Once the King is dethroned or dies a natural death, or is assassinated, the simple townsfolk of our village, will once more be able to breathe, and earn a living. At one point in time, the owners of RVR had the chance to stand up to the Bad Man, but they did not. They were afraid to loose all their rental business. Now RVR is gone, into the history books. The old owner of the Bistro stood up to the Bad Man and declared one sunny Tuesday morning, that he would build 24 motel units behind his place. The next day.... THE VERY NEXT DAY.. the village trail was closed, ostensibly by a local who was upset with noise from the machines passing several hundred feet behind his house. Since the day that the trail closed, steak sales increased back to normal at the Cabatron, and they all but dried up at the Bistro. This winter it was like a tomb in that place, with very few customers. Riders stayed and ate Cabacrab food. Two Quotes to Ponder "The Devil is a liar, a murderer, and a thief. Those that follow him do likewise." A Zenwaiter Paraphrase from the Bible." " If good men do not stand up and lead, they deserve the leadership they get." Aristotle. Let's all hope that someone stands up in this town next year, so that all the interesting small motels and auberges in our region can flourish, with snowmobile trails to their door, and advertising on the Lanaudiere map. One day I would like to see a Zenwaiter Map, where everyone that serve the snowmobile market is represented. That can become a reality if I have 500 members, or a thousand members, but not with one hundred. One Day! zw
Tuesday March 1st 2005
March 1st
Pied de la Chute: Denny at 1-866-833-1171 Bruno the sled rental guy : 1- 800-833-6015 Pierre the Quad Man: Old Sawmill : 450-833-6656 Shawinigan's Bernard: Motel Safari: 1-819-536-2664 Mario at Kanawata: 1-819-666-2007 (Big vote of thanks for these sponsors, they stood against the dictates of the evil King, and insisted on sponsoring this web site no matter what, in order to help our American friends this winter with good service, reasonable prices, excellent security, and honest weather and trail conditions! Good job all!) Also big thanks to Accurate Wire, The Mauricie Tourist Region, Tom Bump, Show me Tickets, Adman at Trail Conditions.com, Sled Guide, Jerry and Christine Jeffries at Zipperme.com, and the Millers at Nesco in Gouverneur New York. There are many more, too numerous to mention, forgive me if I have missed you. And to all of you who sent more than I asked, THANK YOU! You know who you are. There is no way this could have worked without you. BACK TO BC I will be heading back to BC for the next 7 days, so I will not be available for comment. Please call any of these guys above, they are honest and will not steer you wrong. They have the spirit of Zen! I will be back on line March 10th. please hold off your emails till then or I will be jammed up. Thanks for an excellent winter, and for all you kind support. This has been the best snow and weather conditions in the past 6 years since I started, and one of the worst in the USA, the result being, many people up here. We ended up with 100 members for the web site, which was my goal. Financially, we aren't there yet, and I will have to keep trying other things to make this go. I am driving home on my credit cards, and that is simply not fair after the hours I have worked. I will be in the hole again, but I will dig myself out before the fall. I do not know if I can do this again, we shall see. Right now I am 99% toasted.. burnt out, beat, exhausted. My eyes are burning. And, I know I did not deliver as good as I wanted to. Not good. Oh well, I will try again next year probably.. we shall see. I will be posting conditions from BC via Crazy Al and my other information contacts as soon as I get home. Very good knowing all of you again this winter, my Zen members are the ultimate BEST PEOPLE! Thanks again! zen (If you are one of my FREE RIDERS and you have not paid anything to enjoy the web site this winter, this would be a great time to PAY PAL a few bucks. It will be a great help to get me home. The trip takes five days. I burn 9 tanks of fuel at 45. each, and four motels, at 75 each. Plus about 30 bucks a day for food. Thanks)
xoxox zen
Sunday Feb 27th 2005 The weekend will have left trails around the Cabarob Motel rough again, because there was a lot of traffice there... as usual. It seems all roads lead to Rome this year, even more than ever. Koubek's trail is cut off, but who cares if they dry up and go broke, like the rest of us. Only the Cabarob is important. One day the King will fall off his perch, and then we can all have something to eat. Let's pray it happens soon, we're all a little fed up. I feel a mutiny in the air. Three good weeks left at least, so come on up. Spoke to others yesterday at the Refuge, say trails are very good. More snow on the way. zw
Our guide was Denny from Motel au pied de la chute in St-Michel. He knows these trails as well as any trappeur. We had a blast, but today I am in pain. I knew I would be. This summer in BC, I will have to literally train to get into better shape. I am a fat blob with no muscle tone... any of you gals out there interested?? Hahahaha What else? I have 4 photo stories to put up, and no energy to do it. I put up a free page today on the free site, to encourage people to come up in March, because every year I see the perfect trails wasted, as most Americans put away their sleds and take out their bikes. In their heads, it's over for sledding, but nothing could be further from the truth. March is the best. I
will be heading out for the west coast in early March in the nissan.
I will lock down the Zen Shack, and roll. No money has come into the
shack for weeks, and soon, there will be nothing left to eat, except
maybe some squirrel of ermine, if I can catch the beggars. Crazy Al has his computer set up now, so they will be sending me reports and photos from there on the email. I am also hoping that YOU have learned something, and will be CONTRIBUTING to the bulletin board and the photo albums, to keep the information flowing. Remember, if you refuse to start posting, I may just dump you all, and let you find out your information from old Badman like you used to... not good. In truth, I will be re-evaluating this whole thing over the summer. Thousands see the site for five years free of charge, but only one hundred of them are willing to pay to keep it going. What does that tell you? But next year is not our yet, let's just see what God has for us today! It is beautiful out there and the trails are awsome.
zen I rode 160 miles yesterday straight up the big lake from St-Michel, then skipped across about ten lakes, then arrived at the Repos to eat. The place was so full od cigarette smoke that I couldn't stay and eat. It was too much for me. Then we rode out and went to Manawan village, that trail was bumpy. Good thing I was on the GSX 800, helped alot.
Mon Feb 21 2005
- 20C & snowing This was the third annual running of the Ice Racing, and featured the entire crew from the CMRC Racing circuit. Over 150 racers competed for points on the oval ice track, and the event went off without any accidents or injuries. Buddy Ford, president of the association, was also in attendance. Music blared between the race events on the wind swept course, and revellers enjoyed hot chocolate, cold beers, and hot dogs. Children, dogs, and families enjoyed a full day in the outdoors, and all the motels here were full for the weekend. Trails locally did bet bumpy by Sunday afternoon, which is normal given the heavy traffic. Groomers will pass over and repair the damage; that plus the new snow which is falling over the district this morning, will ensure excellent trails in St-Zenon all week long. Interestingly enough, local Police were no where to be seen. Last year they came and greedily handed out tickets for any reason they could find. They were criticism by the entire community for their behaviour. This year, as though in protest, they were no where to be found. I find this unacceptable. The local Police should
be on hand to offer assistance, and be ready for all emergencies.
They should have a PR table, and they should be handing out safety
brochures about how to stay safe. They should also be offering free
information on snowmobile theft prevention. And most of all, they
should be doing a little glad handing, to build positive relationships
with the people of St-Zenon. Their presence should give people a sense
of security. But no... it appears with these people, it is all or
nothing. Either they come to be mean assholes, or they ignore one
of the biggest local events in the region all together; unfathomable
and unacceptable! Rick Bowman was up with the entire family, and I got a picture of them somewhere, which will soon appear on the site. I also met up with a few other Zen members, all of whom looked to be in excellent shape, well warmed by a variety of alcoholic beverages! :) Speaking of well lubricated, I also saw our good friend Jeff B and his son Mini Jeff B. And, my buddy Bob from
Delaware is up, and staying at the Shack, seeing as he is a lone rider.
Brent from Jersey may come up and join him this week, if there was
no snow in his town. (Get up here Brent!) (Race Photos coming soon) zw.
Sat Feb 19th I wish I had one of my boys helping me out.. he could be out riding and shooting, and I could stay home and write, then meet you guys more. Only thing is that I have higher expectations for my kids. I'm just a washed up newspaper photographer and hack writer.. , they are young and have the opportunity to attain greatness. But I have to say that I do love my life the way it is. I will be heading back out west early March, and will be posting trail conditions and weather through Crazy Al for the month of March. Out west I will try to do at least one trip up into the Rockies to ride long track up on the glaciers! I will post on ZenwaiterWest . com. I will take it one day at a time, and all this snow has boosted me. I have a ton of photos to post.. about three stories behind, and then of course there is coverage of the races in the morning. Hope to see some of you out there on the lake It will be fun! Watch out for the cops.. remember,, it is only legal to cross the road at the Bistro.. if you cross at the St-Louis to go over and see the Races, you'll get a ticket! I hope to see my Radio buddy from CJAD and his son! No, I do not remember their names, although .. yes they are members! HAhahaha.. gettin old man!
zen PS: Trails 8 & 9 and 10! Weather to remain cold with more snow, so get up here now.
Sunday Feb 13 2005 I have been in my chair so long, that I can hardly walk. Next year, I am afraid, this site will probably loose some of it's personal touch. Something has to change. One thing for sure, I will have an iron clad security system built for the password thing. Did you know that most of you members are lazy as hell. Only ten people have bothered with sharing photos on our Albums page, (out of 75 members), and almost nobody bothers to give us trail reports on our bulletin boards. I can't do this all myself, it's impossible. Gift girl has even offered to help you as a volounteer.. to hold your hand while you learn how to get your photo albums posted, and still most of you have not sent in one photo. Her e-mail is giftgirl@zenwaiter.com You'd like more good live trail info and photos right? Then please contribute to the boards and the albums, starting today. I can't possibly ride, and report, and then post, and then repair the computer, and then reconfigure the new one, and then beg for money all at the same time... can't do it, it's too much. I have been working since Nov 1st, from 7 am till 1 am daily, but now I am burning out I'm afraid. Get yourselves into the information contribution mode, or forget this web site. I have promised you more than I can deliver I'm afraid. I will keep on trying, and perhaps tomorrow will be a better day. I'm taking the day off, gonna go and walk around on our icy trails and pray for snow. Have a good one.
PS: A big thankyou to Gift Girl and Peter S from Markham Ontario, who both sent in a cash donation towards my new fat debt on the computer.
zw
Friday Feb. 11 No snow now until Tuesday or Wednesday. Ouch. Mon
Tue and Wed highs, calling for -2C this could bring snow. Joel it turns out, is not only the CEO of his own golf course, but a career chef, and manager of the restaurant on the course as well. What a treat that was to get a home cooked meal from him, and what a blessing. Joel prepared us each, a succulent grilled strip sirloin steak, baked potato, fresh broccoli and thinly sliced carrots cooked just right, and delicious mushrooms, sauté in butter with fresh garlic.. AND, a very crisp Caesar salad on the side. It was the best meal I've had all winter. It was just right. Joel is the proprietor of a golf course near Syracuse,
you probably know him if you golf down there. I first met him at the
Big East show about three years ago. We had a short discussion on
the show floor, and I could see then that I had found a friend. I
had no idea he owned a home in St-Zenon. Joel and I did the rounds of all the local topics, and came to the conclusion that we own a home here, because we simply love the area, and that the snowmobiling is the best in Lanaudiere, of all the places in Quebec. "I have ridden in almost every region of the province, and this area is simply the best for snowmobiling, that's why I bought a house here. I can ride out my driveway here, and go south, east, west, or north, and there are great trails and destinations all around." Of course, we also discussed the current difficulties of the sport in the region as well such as trail closures due to local residents who no longer want a trail through their land, snowmobile theft, the border, the language barrier, and of course the local lack of snow. All these problems are nothing new, they all come with the package. Joel will be around more this winter, and is always looking for new friends to ride with. If you are over 49, and enjoy riding St-Zenon, Joel could become a sled pal. He already has a few close friends up here, but there's always room for one more. Drop me an e-mail if you need a riding partner up here. Riding alone is dumb and unsafe. That's it. Pray for snow. It's cold this morning, but unless you want to ride on ice, see you next weekend. Even if you have studs, you can't stop the other guy from sliding into you. If I had a choice between this week and next.. I'd wait. It's like rough NY riding this week, only better. Some people love that! Thieves are active all over Quebec, so expect anything, anytime. They steal anytime of day or night, anywhere, and could take your entire rig, not just the sled.
zw
Thursday Feb 10th Yes we kept our solid rock hard and thick frozen base
of a foot or so, but even that base gets chewed up with time, and
no new snow. The groomers can rehash and rehash the same old snow
over and over and make good trails, but their job gets increasingly
difficult, when it doesn't snow. So, this weekend looks to be shaping up much better, the weatherman has changed his tune suddenly, and now says we will get - 30 tonight and snow Saturday too! I will get out and grab some new photos today if the snow keeps up. So far, almost an inch of the white stuff has covered up the sins of last week, and I am prepared to forgive all if only we can get 6 inches!!
Tues Feb 8th 2: AM The new computer cost me 1,890.00. It is a desk top. I hope it will last longer than the lap top did... 18 months. So much for my winter budget. Now I am back in the hole. Oh well. The
worst of it is that I am so tired, and still did not shake the cold,
inspite of the excellent Indiana pizza. Apart from these folks, we will have about 150 racers of just about everything out there. Please book your rooms now for that weekend, as things will be nuts around here. The riding has been more difficult, getting back and forth through the towns because of the warmer weather, but the trails are still good. Hopefully the God of our understanding will shew us mercy, and dump on us! Have too much cash laying around and feeling generous? Why not help me pay for this computer. There are no new members, and the cost of this beast is a heavy burden. I know it's not your responsibility, but if you can help, it would be great. I will put up the weekend photos in the morning. I have worked enough for one day. zen
Feb 3 2005 Sorry you haven't seen much of me, the new computer is now installed, now I just have to pay for it. Rolland at Radio Shack is very helpful and generous, thank God. The weather seems to have gotten mild, but wait! When I say Mild, I mean that is is floating around 30F during the mid day, then 10F at night. The trails will not have any trouble surviving this, though we could use some snow on local trails. The famous new St-Zenon trail is officially closed, as it is dangerous. People are having a hell uv a time getting through St-Zenon this winter because of it. That trail is closed because of a local trouble maker that wants to see the snowmobile club suffer. We may just have to shoot him unfortunately. Anyways, do not be discouraged, there is plenty of fantastic rising to be had all around our area. Do not let one little trail get to you. We have 99 % of our trails open and in great shape. Did I tell you the other day that some friends dropped by to bring me home made cookies and brownies? I had some, then took the rest over to share with all the guests at the Refuge. I know myself, and I would have eaten them all and gained 12 pounds. Thanks to these sweet folks!!
Remember, the family that rides together, stays together!
Jan 31 2005 I have mortgaged everything I own, and have a new computer on the way, though I haven't paid for it all yet. Rolland at Radio Shack has supplied me for years. It's gonna cost me 1900. Canadian for a 3. gighz Pentium 4. Why so much power you say? Well... I need to work with about 4 or 5 applications open to build my web sites, that\s why. The next two weeks, I will be configuring the new box. I really can't afford this winter job. This may well be my last shot. Oh well, life goes on.
zen
Jan 27th You see, in the old days, when I got punished for
every time I would write in Zenwaiter that the weather was warm, or
it was raining, I would get hacked, and the web site would vanish.
(that still happens at times.) I know I know, it sounds crazy! But I think they no longer give a shit, because they know there are only 100 or so in here reading. None of this really matters any more, because basically,
I almost never say anything negative about the trails anyways. I never
did in the past either. Perhaps once a year if things got really bad.
All I intended from the very start, was to give out free information to help people have a better holiday. I used my best photography skills, my shaky writing skills, and my amateur technical web master skills, to create this web site. It was a super hit for five years, when up to 5,000 people a day in January would come and enjoy the photos and the text. As soon as I asked for money, the room cleared out by half, and about 70 people stepped up to the plate to pay 40. usd to gain access to the PAY SITE. After January, the price went up to 50. , and that's when we got our last 25 members. All this to say, that you no longer have to guess what I am thinking. You can read it in black and white. If I don't say much one day, it's because I am sick. On the local front, the Bistro is not what it used to be, for whatever reason. There are not the crowds there once was. The local trail in St-Zenon between it and the Cabaron is bad.... very icy no snow on it, that may be the main reason. People have gone back to the old way of getting to town on the old detour, or just driving in to go for a steak or to the Ritz. For you newbies out there, this is no big deal as far as your riding goes, I am just talking about a five minute connecting trail. Trails to our south and towards Shawinigan and Donat, are getting thinner. Trails to the north are staying very good to excellent. Kanawata, Casey, Parent.. incredible snow cover. We need a good dump here in ST-Zenon. That's it. Have a great day! Send more cash, it's all gone! Click on an ad link somewhere, tell a friend, stick my name in your will, bring me a pizza, introduce me to your wealthy sister who is on her deathbed, bring a box of doggy treats for Rocky, and say a prayer for me! Thanks. BTW, please add the US troops to your prayer list as well, They are gonna need help in the next few days, as the US government tries to ram their political structure straight up the asses of these poor Iraqi people. It's not the fault of the boys on the ground, but they are in harms way and need a miracle to keep them safe over the next few days as the elections loom. zw
Jan 25 2005 zw
Jan 22 2005 8 AM, it is -30 C and - 24 F. We have many snowmobiles in the area. The one trail that was supposed to open up our village, is just giving us a bad name. The new trail from the Cabanon to the village is apparently not good. It also has a steep hill which is all ice and dirt, and is actually dangerous. I have not seen it myself, but I have read all over that is is no fun. So, if you must ride from the Cabanon to the village, ie to the Bistro, take the old way. Ride down the hill to the gas station and go around that road, then up into the woods on that horrible bumpy 2 miles of trail that brings you to RVR. Looks like if you are staying at the Cabanon, it is much easier just to stay there, eat there and gas there. Do not try to go anywhere, it's not on GOD's agenda. So what else is new? I am still sick with this cold, mainly because I can't seem to stay home and get better. I am out taking pictures of many of you my friends. But now I have to stop. I have a ton of photos that need to go up on the site, and I shd just stay home and do this work. Indoors. Outdoors it is very cold. It is going to be less cold in a few days with some snowfall, which we need. The trails outside of the village are still 7,8, and even 10's. The two US Air Force pilots we had up yesterday, told us they enjoyed nothing less than a perfect ten ride up to Repos and up to the Manawan Indian village. On the way home, they rode the 360 around the lake Taureau. A perfect day, about 300 miles. It was very good to see you Chris, you fly safe! We will pray for you guys. I have been invited to Parent by Michael from the Pourvoirie L'Escapade on the Gouin Reservoire. He seems a wonderful young man with a nice wife and teen age daughter. He doesn't have much cash, is humble, and very hard working. He offers love, warmth, and every other physical thing a sledder would need to have a fantastic holiday in the pure north country. One the one hand I see the tremendous potential of that area and it's kind hardworking people, and on the other hand, I ask myself if I want to go up there and subject myself to another bunch of Quebecois businessmen, given my shock in the past of how they 'run' things. It's not that they do things wrong, it's just that it clashes 100% with my business sense. It's a different culture here ad it is not for me to tell them how to do things. How I see it? If they could all get along, and work together in harmony, that area could easily blow the wheels of this area in a few years. More snow, colder, less humans, less parks, less civilization, more wild animals to see, more wilderness, untouched by humans. More peace. "Dream Sequence":
On I fantasize about the business people all gathering around me on my screen, and patting me on the back saying things like ... "Man, it is amazing how the people listen to what you have to say! Let's all work together and give them a wonderful holiday experience!" Then I see hundreds of Americans and Canadian driving up, and taking the trail up here, with their hopeful hearts, and their wallets full of snowmobile holiday cash. For a few seasons, everyone pulls together to meet the growing need. But then one day, when the money starts to pile up and people are getting all their needs met, the human greed factor kicks in. They begin to serve mammon instead of their fellow man. Then the backstabbing binges begins. Like a bunch of half starved wolves, they begin to clutch and tear at each other's flesh, blood splattering everywhere. The big organizations slide in to get their share of the pie, there just isn't enough. Finally one of the wolves emerges victorious, his snout still dripping red from his battles. He howls out a challenge to all comers, "This is MY Territory now!" he growls, and begins to urinate one everything is site, marking every tree and every tire with his scent. It is done. Another 'GOD" has emerged from the dust to conquer all. He smells the cash, he licks and tastes all the flesh that surrounds him, and he sees that it is good. Drooling madly, he sets up a new world order, and begins to order people around, like they were dogs. Those that do not obey get bit right away. They have a choice. Fall into line, get killed, or run away. He starts by controlling the groomers. He begins to cut trails off to those motels that do not do exactly what he says. He even chops off entire villages with a swipe of his hand. There is no stopping him now because he will stop at nothing short of full power over everyone and everything in the area. His neighbours fall like sheep to the slaughter. His evil acts are an abomination to the Lord, but he continues, fueled by his avarice. Some try to appease him, but he is unstoppable. More money pours in, and more power goes to his head, as he mutters to himself in repetitive self centric mantras. The local snowmobile club falls, and becomes his personal kingdom. There are victims everywhere, but alas, none strong enough to fight back. It is easier to submit, and so the entire village drops to their knees and worships the beast. They don't make a move without his say so. They live in fear. And for the new king, there is no longer a 'me' and
a 'them', there is only power. There is only one voice that counts
around here, and only one man that decides all. No no no no! My dream of beauty has become a nightmare! Heeeeeelllllpppp meeeee!! Dream sequence: OFF! I think I'll just say that I went to Parent, and stay home instead. I have a fever anyways. Can you tell? Hope we don't get hacked... again! zw *******************
Jan 19th. 2005 Timbo called me last night, and told me that the guys changed their minds, they were apprehensive about crossing up to Chibougamau from the comforts of Roberval. Too bad for them, as that town really knows how to party. (Has one of those adult bars that is very popular) according to Crazy Al, who read it somewhere in a magazine. I am still very sick, major cold, in my chest and head. My old Indian buddy told me to get a lump of pine gum off of one of my trees behind the Zen Shack. I boiled it up and made some tea. Whoa.. was that ever strong. This morning I feel about the same. I dropped in to see MapMap Dennis at the motel
Pied de la Chute. He showed me cases of snowmobile maps that are arriving
from all the Quebec Regions. This was my idea for him, to help promote
his place since he is new. If you call him, he can give you the maps
you need for free. He is very knowledgeable too, but speak slow and
clear, because he is still just getting his English warmed up. Call Map Man Denis Now. Please tell him I sent you. Perhaps next year he will become a full sponsor, but this year, we just need to help him get started. I like this guy and his wife, they really give a darn about serving their people well, and that's all I care about. MapMan Denis; Toll Free: 1-866-833-1171 One more thing before I go back to my kleenex box and my pine gum, I want to thank Margaret Aukamp for sending me a whole box of Hershey's real American chocolate bars! I love the flavour of the bars made in the US for the US. In Canada, they taste different. They actually use a different recipe! Thanks Margie! XOXOXOXO ZEN! that's it for me, stay safe. Oh.. a few more sleds stolen here and there, be sure to lock it up with a big fat chain, and watch 'em! Oh.. One last thing. Welcome to our latest member, (first guy to pay up in two weeks!) Burton G! Thanks man. Really needed that cash! I was starting to get worried. There's no more cash in the shack, but my oil tank is almost 3/4 full. That cost 400. bucks! And, Rocky has doggie cookies and food. zw Important message. Stop feeling the pang of guilt. Pay now and you'll feel much better!! CLICK HERE TO COUGH IT UP! It'll be the best 50 bucks you've ever spent! zw
Jan 18, 2005 Our man Timbo is on a five day trip with his buddies up north. He called me for some mileage and motel names last night from Roberval. There are some very bare spots up there, where they have been riding on the harrowed fields.. dirt. Other places are far better. Near Chambord there is no snow. They are heading up to Chibougamau, 322 kms for tonight. Wednesday they will head for Senneterre and stay at Balbuzard. A very nice log house with fabulous food. Thursday they will head for Parent and stay at the Hotel Central probably. That guy sends us 200. every year! Friday they will head back to St-Michel via Manawan Indian Village, another 300 kms. This is an very exciting kind of snowmobiling, not for the uninitiated. You must be prepared, especially in - 30 F temperatures. You have long distances to cover, and you must know where you are going, and where the gas is. I am sick with a cold, it's a drag. Nose, chest, throat etc. Not fun. I will stuff myself with vitamin C and drink gallons of h2o. If you do a trip, please post your photos on our Photo Album pages. No, this is not an instant process, it will require an hour of your time and your focus. But if you want this web site to be good, please get off your ass, and post your photos and your comments in our Bulletin Board. Once you have done it the first time, it is very simple. Call on giftgirl@zenwaiter.com to help you. Please don't ship the photos to me. I just look, then delete them. I do not have the time to do the job. email giftgirl, and she will hold your hand through the process. It is not hard, and it doesn't hurt. You guys are spoiled, and expect me to spoon feed you, but I don't have the time to do that any more. sorry. Have a great day at work, make a few thousand for me today! God Bless You Guys, ride sober and safe. It's dangerous out there. zen PS: Tell me what your favorite all time hit single is, (one only) and I will try to add it to our mucis player thing! My favorite some is Mustang Sally by the great Wilson Picket. Hear it now? Turn on yous computer speakers, and go to our index page, then click on the yellow message at the top of the page. Get ready to boogie! click here. Yes I know, there is a problem with the player window
opening too small, we are working on it. zw
Jan 16 2005 Bob told a story of adventure, harrowing winds of 80 mph, lots of snow in some places, almost no snow in others. But all in all, he said the trails were 70% 10/10. Local trails around here are icy and the busiest of
them are beat up a little he said, but he still managed a full out
race with a young punker on a 900cc, and cleaned his clock with his
new Yamaha Vector, on the last leg of his journey from the Cabanon
to St-Michel. zw PS: The new trail to our village is finally complete,
though riders have yet to find their way it seems. Sleds are still
running down along the side of 131 looking confused like lost sheep,
in search of the Holy Grail.. (the St-Louis!).. After a full two years of being strangled off, most
St-Zenon businesses have long since stopped relying on the snowmobile
or quad tourists to survive. Next week, if I can shake this cold, I want to drive to another area of Quebec, and take some photos. That was my goal this year, to spread my self around a bit to more deserving areas that need to be promoted. Well, that's it for today, except to say that winter
has really set in. There are no more Christmas lights up, and it's
damn cold, so be ready. Bring a tow rope, some water, first aid kit
etc if you are going to do any mileage. Yes I know, there are many
people on our trails to help, but still, it is better to be prepared
than to rely on luck. Stay safe out there. PS: If my web site gets hacked again today,
Jan 13 2005 Man, the days seem to blur into one long one. Sorry
I haven't been here in 5 days! Now that things are going to settle in here, I would
like to go somewhere else to write a story, someplace new for me that
needs help. Do you know of a place that has great trails, and deserves
some good promo? Since I wrote about Mont Vallins, the place filled
right up. Also, thanks so much to the Boston's own "FormulaPro"
man, for the fabulous cheese pizza made by Regina Pizza in North Bostn,
it was fantastic! (just one piece left in the freezer!). That was
very kind. I would have tipped the driver big time if I had been in
the shack at the time! I am sorry I did not meet you and your clan.
We can try again next time. And while we're thanking people, Thanks to Gift girl,
who sent me a Christmas gift.. the only one I got this year! (I really
got skunked this year).. She sent me a fabulous pair of sheep wool
lined New Zealand bootie slippers. Now my feet don't get cold under
this old oak desk anymore! Thanks! And remember, if you have not yet added your family
or sledding picture to our special MEMBER'S Only photo
ALBUM, (Left side menu) Also, spoke to Woodpellet Man in N Syracuse. They had a terrible tragedy in the family over the holidays, a car accident claimed the lives of a father and his son, leaving the daughter and mother to go on alone. It was unavoidable. We will say a prayer for the family. Have a good day people. Enjoy every minute of it.. It's precious. Please visit one sponsored ad on our site today, this helps them to continue supporting our site. Thanks. PS: Any requests for our juke box? Do you like it? zw
Jan 8 2005 Yes, I went for a ride yesterday, and yes, I am totally
wiped out today. I was so wound up that I couldn't sleep when I got
home from dinner with Jerry Jeffries and his gang, it was a really
good time. I need to clone myself so I can do this job. At Rea'ls, there were lots of sleds, and the place was jumping.
Afterwards, we ran to the Erabliere, and then did a u-turn and started heading back up on the 63. (I think). I was concentrating on riding my Yamaha demo, a 100 cc Vector, 3 cylinder four stroke. Plenty of power with a hair trigger throttle. It took some time to get used to the thumb throttle, and the power attached to it. It was a completely different ride than the 550 fan cooled Ski-doo two up rental that I rode ten days ago. We came back up through St-Emilie, up through Bazinet and that other place that sponsored us last year, but not this year. I can't remember the name... really! Very tired. Then we rode to the Glaciere, crossed the highway, and rode up to the Cabanone, where Jerry asked if I would like to have dinner in there. Very funny Jer! Hahahaha.. We went back up to the Motel Montagnard, where Mike was glad to see us back in one piece. Afterwards, we all met at the Saw Mill, where Pierre cooked us up an amazing feast. I had the chicken 'Tournedos", a breast of chicken, wrapped in a bacon strip, smothered in rich brown gravy, and accompanied by fresh veggies like turnip, celery and carrots. For dessert, apple pie a-la-mode! So much for the Zen diet. I was supposed to meet a bunch of guys at the Glaciere for breakfast, never made it. Too wiped out. Taking it cool today, have to finish Al Verkest Mpeg video clips, and then, do the Jerry story. Didi I tell you that Jerry and his lovely wife Christine brought me some Christmas gifts? A new helmet, jacket, bibs, boots and gloves. Now I'm stylin on the trail!
THANKS GUYS!
Jan 6, 2005 8 AM I am going for a ride on a brand new Yamaha Friday morning with the Jerry Jeffries clan from Rochester NY. Also, Jerry has called in a few favours from some business associates, and has gotten me some new gear for riding. This way, I won't look like a welfare case on the trail, and I'll be warm. Thanks Jerry. Saturday morning I am meeting a bunch of guys at the Glaciere for breakfast. I understand they have a new kitchen boss, and I am sure the food will be wonderful. I know that the Auger boys want to maintain the decades long tradition of excellence that has made that place so well known and loved. I am doing my best here to keep up and maintain what we've built, but I gotta tell you, building the second site has increased my work load by a third.. not good. Now that everything is set up, and the members are all signed up, I think things will slow down a bit. Today I am going to try to finish Al Verkest! I wish I was faster, but it all takes the time that it takes. This weekend is usually light in traffic on the trails because after the Christmas hell week, people stay home one or two weeks. On the other hand, no one else has snow like us, so we are snagging all the Ottawa and Toronto people, and more from across the border. HOUSE KEEPING: Have a good one people. zw
Zen's Mini Snowmobile Buying Guide! ****************
Jan 05, 2005 Did you send your photos up onto our ALBUMS PAGE yet? What else? I dropped my digital camera on the lake
and smashed it up on Christmas day. I since spent 600. for a new smaller
one. That cost me 12 memberships, which is about what trickled in
over the holidays. The trail to the village from the Cabanon is delayed again... it was supposed to be completed a few weeks ago. I don't know what's happening there either. No complaints other than that. People seem happy with the trails so far.. Because they are excellent. That's it for tonight from me. zw ***********************
January 04, 2005 Got back from NYC last night at 11 pm. It was a great
three days with my sons at their buddies apartment on Broadway. I
was lucky to bum a ride down with DrC from Elizabeth NJ, then I took
the bus home for only 73. usd! All groomers are working 24/7. Watch out! Do not hit one. Last year we had a fatality in broad daylight. The guy hit the groomer. Waterways are pretty much solid now, but be careful. Before you go onto a waterway that is not marked, please ask a local person what the score is. 90% of all fatalities in Quebec occur OFF TRAIL!!
Thanks to continued membership growth, I am planning to go to a new area next week to report on the trails. If you have an idea as to where you would like me to go, please e-mail me, or call me. Now you will note that the free site has less updates on it. I will be focusing on serving you 80 or so members. You have paid, and I work for you! I love this! How about some feedback?? I see that many of you have
been hard at work on the photo albums. This is wonderful. To see them,
click on ALBUMS on the left. This is one of our best features. Farley is also out there, and is willing to help. He was out of commission for a bit, but is now back in the saddle. giftgirl@zenwaiter.com farley@zenwaiter.com I pray that all our Zen Families will enjoy a Happy, successful, and healthy new year! God Bless, and let's RIDE!!!! zw ***************************
"HONEY....
I'M HOME!" I spoke to some locals, and heard first hand, of how they reacted to the disaster. One 40 year old woman
explained that everyone was in shock... The sky was gray for
days. We lived in a thick fog of smoke. The heavy smell of smoke made
it difficult to breathe, and carried the odor of burning human remains.
Nothing is worse. As New Yorkers, this
definitely brought us closer together. Now when I walk around the
city, I feel like everyone is my brother, even the criminals. We are
a family, and this city will never be the same." The people of New York
City are now a family. The guys that roast chestnuts on the corners,
the barber from Russia that gave me a haircut, the guy hawking watches,
the two Lebanese brothers that sold me a slice of pizza, and the doorman
to my building, all family.
Dec 29, 10:30 pm I will be in NYC to see my boys, so don't look for anymore updates till after NY's. Don't have time to put new pics, they will come when I get back. They are amazing., I rode 300 miles, went everywhere, trails best before 2 pm, then some of them were getting tired. Groomers run 24 - 7. Tons of snow everywhere, snow and cold not a problem. All in all, St-Zenon averages out at a rating of 7.5 - 8.5. This is as good as it will get in any given season. I reserve the higher numbers for those very few amazing days, when the trail is indeed perfect. Week days have less traffic, early morning is amazing. The morning LIGHT is beautiful through the trees and on the snow covered lakes. HAPPY
NEW YEAR ALL!
Dec 28th 7:59 PM I did 175 miles with Al Verkest today. It was awesome. We went to the Real Masse dining room for breakfast where we met Bob and the crew from PA. We rode to St-Gabriel, and point south. Trail got thinner down there with some icy spots, but not bad at all, cause there was 2 inches of powder to cool the slides, and also the groomers had gone everywhere. Back to Real's for supper at 6 PM. The trail had a few bumps by now, but after we ate a great steak, we came back to the shack on fresh groomed 4 inches of smooth white packed and groomed powder. It was a little greasy, but will harden over nite. - 20C this morning, tonight it is -10 C and still snowing lightly. It snowed almost all day. This is good. Everyone having a ball up here. (Thanks for being a paid member. Because of you, I came home to a warm house. I REALLY appreciate your love, thanks.) BTW I think there's about 75 paid members now. God Bless. Bed now.
New photos soon!
Zen
will be gone Dec 28& 29 Riding! I'll be back with some photos.
zw Dec 27th, 2004 I'm really sorry. I wish I could just sit here and write all day and make phone calls to get all the area scoop, but I do what I can. One thing's for sure, if a member calls me, or emails me, I'll do whatever it takes to get the info you need. We now have about 75 members all paid up, ain't that grand?? I keep paying bills, and somehow, I don't seem to be going forward, but unlike the past years, I am not going backwards.. it's fantastic! We should have done this years ago eh?? Anyways, we have a few inches of new powder on top of the newly groomed hardened trail. Yes there's enough to cool your slides, and enough to ride like the wind and shoot out a rooster tail if you like. On the sides of the trail there is a pile of about two feet of snow, and that is what we use. We stick the blade in a bit and pull out what we need to pack a few inches of new snow on top of the solid base. Wen we get a huge dump of snow, we put some back on the sides for later. It works well. Right now our trails are 7,8 , 9, and 10 out of ten!! Everything is open, almost. And the new trail to the village is almost done from what I hear. People to the south got melted pretty bad, but they have a little bit of new snow too. It's sunny and cold this morning. - 20 C, and - 4 F. Forecast says - 20 C tonight and Tuesday; - 9 on Tuesday with flurries, - 20 Wed with flurries., -13 Thurs, -11 Fri with flurries, Sat and sunday light snow and - 8. Looks damn good!
xxoo zen
Dec 26th 2004 Then I stopped into a buddies place
on the way home, and his wife asked me if I got a Turkey dinner out
of the Montreal visit. I said no. More waterworks! Ha! I couldn't
stop! So now, I am doing my best to get the NY story done. I just finished it, and then clicked on the wrong thing, and POOF, three hours of work gone! Some days are easier than others. I am going to eat some cold turkey now, and try again later. The trails up here are fantastic. I have spoken to many guys on their sleds, and they have said they are riding all over, all alone! That will all change today as the sledders arrive.. I can't wait to see you all. And did I tell you my BOYS will be in NYC! I am going there for NY eve in TIME SQUARE!!!!! YES! Wait till you see the photos of my big boys. Both are 6 foot 4, and are Karate Black belt, second Dan, and both have been teaching Karate in Santa Barbara for 5 years!! I will feel protected, that's for sure. But from what I hear, NYC is the most safest place in the entire world right now. There are security people everywhere, and I am sure I will feel very safe. Love you all, my little Zen members! Did you know we have about 75 members now?? Did you know almost everyone paid 50 or 60 instead of the 40 I asked for?? You Guys Are Amazing. Thank God I have you. Now it's cold turkey for me!! MMMMMM! xxoo zen zw
Dec 24th 12:34 AM Two more letters from people that have been enjoying the site for years, but think 40 or 50 is too much. You should get a laugh out of my response. The more tired I am... well.. mail need sleep. Moma Zen is in hospital, and will not be going anywhere this Christmas. Not sure why, but it was all too much for her, and her doctor has admitted her for depression. Please say a prayer for my Mom. This makes me sad. So, things looking a little gloomy here for Xmas, but good news. My kids will be in NYC, and I am meeting them there Dec 31. Gonna do the 'Time Square thing' with them after all. I'll be back in the shack Jan 4th at night late. Weather here? Looks like the minute I left, it got warm here and snow of the sides of the road melted into streams of water, turned the roads into ice. Cold tonight, shd hit - 15 tonight and hang between -15 and -20 for Friday and Saturday Sunday & Monday. This will harden everything up again, and the groomer will pass. On Tuesday & Wed there will be milder temps, hovering around the freezing mark to - 4C. Wed 29th calling for 90% possibility of snow. The trails in the forest will only benefit from that mild spell, they will be groomed into a very good base, but a rideable base, because there was two to three feet in the woods. We are off to a very strong start so early on in the season. Things will be a bit icy, but very acceptable riding, according to the forecast. There is a ton of snow on the trails. I will be in the Shack until the morning of the 30th when I will go to NYC to be with my 2 boys! zw Dec 21 11 PM Temps remaining cold and still snowing lightly today. Go see the weather link on the free side for the weather. See you soon. Oh, did I tell you my boys will be in NYC to see the ball drop in Time Square? I am going to meet them for two days. I haven't seen them for a year and a half. They live in Santa Barbra California. Yeah Dude! later. zw
Dec 21, 2004 I am cold. My feet are cold, and my back is cold. I don't move around enough when I write. My finger tips are cold. Must be old age setting in, and my circulation ain't what it used to be. My congratulations to Gabe, the oldest snowmobiler in Quebec, and one of our very first contirbutors to Zenwaiter! He's been sending me letters of support since the start. Thanks Gabe. What else, oh yeah, I am going away! I am leaving Wednesday for Montreal, and will be back on December 27th. Then I leave again for NYC on Dec 30th with Dr. C, who lives in Elizabeth town NJ. I am meeting my boys in downtown NYC on New Years Day! I will stay there and leave on the bus, back up to Montreal. Unless of course, one of you readers wants to drive me back up. Are you driving from NYC to ST-Zenon on January 4th? I'll hitch a ride with you! Thanks to all those who have started sending in your photos!! This will be the best part of our online community. Yes sure, we are a small group, but I like it. Gift Girl will be in charge of helping you to post your photos. Please don't e-mail photos to me, though I enjoy it alot, it jams up my email, and I don't have time to deal with all that, I prefe4r going to our Photo Albums (click link on left) and that way I see all your pictures! Send photos to gifgirl@zenwaiter.com! She will help you to figure out how to post your photos. zw Brian B thinks we should charge half Hi Zen. I have been using your site for info for a while. We met for dinner a few years ago. I think it's a good idea for you to do something to get paid for your great service. I'm guilty as the rest. I should have sent a donation. I was wondering if you were going to offer seasonal rates. Like maybe $20 from Dec. to April? I think a lot of people like myself use your site for only snowmobiling in the St.Zenon area. If this would be a a little easier on the wallet and we would be paying for the great winter service you provide. Let me know what you think. I would love to join your paysite for seasonal use. Thanks, Brian Bruckner Thanks for your input Brian. Here's
what I think. At first, as you know, I blew a blood vessel when I read your letter. But now, after having wasted far too much time considering your letter, I have a calmer head. First off Brian, the Pay Web site is seasonal. It's for snowmobilers who come to Quebec. It only snows in the winter season here. The other summer stuff, that you have obviously been enjoying over the past 'several years', is free, consider it a bonus. You've been enjoying it free for years. It was a free bonus. Now you want to remove the value of this 'free bonus' from your total bill! Well, let me do the math. That's a net reduction of ... ZERO. Thus, the site is still worth full price. Second. If I cut the price in half and was lucky enough to double the subscriptions, it would only mean that I do twice the work, for half the money. Then I would have no time left to write and build the site, and manage, and do everything that I do. AT the moment, I work from 7 am till 1 am daily. I say, lets double the price, and cut the work in half! Plus, on your idea of charging by the season, that would also double the work. I would have to process your half payment twice every year. As it is now, I will simply hit one button on November first next year, and all the user names will be erased. We' ll start over. I'll hand them out one at a time as the money is paid next fall. If there are a few snowmobilers that cannot afford to pay 50 bucks for my Pay Site, I can live with that. I don't think the price is too high at 50., and besides, I won't do it for less. Third and finally, If I had a buck for every person that ever wrote me to say they loved my work, or shook my hand and told me they were thrilled to finally meet me, and that they had read every word I have ever written, since the very start 6 years ago... If I had one buck for each of these fans that have NEVER sent a penny, I wouldn't be writing this letter right now. I had over 9 million 'hits' last year. No, that;s not visitors, that is actual files downloaded. Actual visitors would be average of 2,000 visitors a day in winter, 400 in summer. There are also spikes of 4,000 in winter! If you like what I do, help me keep doing it. The free stuff is going to radically diminish soon. But hey, you can scour the net for other free stuff, I am sure you'll find more well meaning shmucks like me that are still giving it away for free. Still in all, I appreciate your input Brian, you have brought to light some interesting sides of this issue. I hope you can scrape together the 50 bucks for the pay site this winter, cause I sure as the hell am not going to give it to you for a penny less. Plus, why not take this opportunity to send me the donations that you 'forgot' to send, for all those winters and summers of good reading. How about 20 bucks a year. Now would be a good time to let your 'good intentions' shine.... right?
zen
Sunday Dec 19th, 2004, 7:49 AM Do not miss the new page of my first
ride. If you like it, why not ask a friend to join our tiny club,
I need the cash. We have about 35 paid members now. I can see that
the big membership rush is drying up quick, and without any businesses
sponsoring, she's gonna be another tough winter in the shack. Have an excellent day.. eh?? zw
Sat
Dec. 18, 2004. 12:29 AM (midnight) My morning ride was one of my best ever, and the beauty was stunning. Pure perfection. Of course, I was all alone and the groomer was just ahead of me! Look at this trail, not a mark
on it. A little tired, off to bed, but I'll give you a page of great photos by noon tomorrow. zw
DEC
17 2004 Last
night I saw a few trailers roll past the Zen Shack, on their way to
a weekend of sledding. Our trail system is fragile. Do not take it for granted. Many toil all year for the trails to be open. Pay your trail pass as soon as you get to the area you want to ride in. sermon mode; OFF PS: HAPPY HOLIDAYS... EH? zw
Dec 16th 2004 We almost have 40 members now... my goal is 100. Why
not give the gift of ZEN to your friends for Christmas? haaahha...
just a thought. Now.. what was I saying? The weather man says that the long range forecast is for cold and fluries. This is fantastic. We expect to see you up here asap! I will be away Dec 22 - Dec 27, looking after Mom and visiting the new nephew Henry in Toronto. Do not send e-mail at that time, it will only bounce zw
1:30 am Dec 14 After the hot beef and veggie
soup, there followed a steaming plate of buttery pasta with garlic
and chives. Beside those fat noodles, was a generous portion of homemade
beef stew. It was just like my Mom used to make, and the cubes of
beef fell apart when I touched them with my fork. After that, they
insisted I try the home made cake with lemon sauce. Man that was good. Anyways, Gilles and Nancy showed me around a little after lunch, and I took pictures. Real busted his foot in a freak accident, when the tree Gilles cut down, took a disliking to him. There are 8 broken bones in his right foot, and it will be months of healing. Real underwent some serious foot surgery, but now all is well. The whole family looked in good spirits,
and they are excited about the new conference centre they are building.
It's about 40 by 35 feet in size, and faces the lake with three huge
windows. If you need a conference hall, this would be the place for
it. Also, Real has build a new parking lot up top, which will eventually become a snowmobile enclosure, heated and locked. This is a project for next summer. Real said he had a good summer business wise. That means all his fishermen came up as they always do, and went fishing. Real Masse is open now and if you call him right away, you can be there for new year's eve! . Did you know that his rooms start as low as 59.99 Canadian?? This blew me away. I never knew he had the cheapest rooms in the area. Holy cow! The cabins are very clean, warm, and rustic. Rustic does not mean shabby. You have everything you could ever need. You are on the lake and on the trail... but the best part is the food, and the very family oriented hospitality. For Real, security is tops. It's the main priority, and to that end, he has hired 24/ 7 security this winter that will patrol the parking areas. He has three shotguns, strategically located, as he may be doing some night time hunting this winter. I hope he bags a few! I'll be there for the trophy photos. For those of you who don't know about Real Masse's place, I suggest you study up on it a bit. It's big, and cozy, and first class all the way. If I was to give an overall prize for best winter outfitter in the Lanaudiere area, Real would be getting it. I'd like to sell my house and move over there permanently. Photos soon. Must sleep now, enough already. More
about Real here.. zw
PS: The trail is indeed open to Real's place, and has been for over a week. My informant was incorrect. Call now for your booking.
Dec 13 2004 This web site however, has no such trouble. You payer people, can just click on the link from the free site, and ... no problem. If I gave you the link free this last month, by some lapse of brain function, and if it won't break you to send in 40 bucks, then please send it. Sure, you donated last year, but that doesn't pay for the expenses this year.. Enough about money.. ("yessss" they echo, in the collective darkness of the reader's minds! "Stop your whining!!") Found out yesterday that there are now 300 kils of trail groomed. Looks like the loop around the Lake Taurau is done, the trail to the dam, and beyond to Marineaus is done, and the trail to Rouge Matawin is done. Trail to Real Masse not done yet, cause he is not open yet, I have to call today to see what day he'll be open. The infamous trail that was cut to the village of St-Zenon, is being rebuilt in another location, and will not be finished foir another ten days or so. It's a big job and they have to satisfy various government ministries, like environment probably. Anyways, they say it is almost finished. Trail to Koubek's will be done in 5 days. They had an issue with flowing water from a stream, but have sent some back hoe down there to fix it. They say it should be fixed soon. Good thing I have a few good moles out there to get the intel. I suspect there is a leak at the top level of the Gestapo. The Fuhrer probably wants me to share this info with you, through unofficial channels. Zeek- Heil! One more thing, buy your trail pass here, or you will be shot by firing squad. Get them at the gas station Sept Chute, Glaciere, Cabanon, or any other gas station or motel. See, now what good is this comment? I am preaching to the choir here! How about some feed back from you thirty readers?? Send me an e-mail. Do you realize I write only for you?? Shoot, I should be charging 1,000 bucks per head! Hahahahah! Photos of the snow coming today. We have about 3 feet now. It's fantastic. zen ps: please click on at least one sponsor per day. They deserve it.
Dec 12 2004 -7C this morning, with light snow.Pure blue skies with puffy white clouds. Forecast predicting snow through Tuesday with temperatures remaining from 5 to 10 degrees below freezing. This is very good. Currently on the ground, and 2.5 feet
of snow. Both sides of the 131 to St-Michel have been packed and possibly even groomed. Local trails are open to Glaciere Masse's and the Cabanon. With all this snow, I am guessing that the trails are not fast, and will require more gas. Call around to be sure your destination gas or restaurant is open, before taking off. Trail to the dam also open from what I hear. The new trail from the Cabanon to the village is not finished yet, so you still have to do the loop down to the Glaciere to get into the village. That new trail should be finished in a few weeks. The snow we have received so far is almost more than all of last winter together! Let's just hope the temperatures will remain below freezing. Some of the lakes are especially dangerous right now, with only 4 or 5 inches of ice, and even less at certain places, have been given a blanket of insulation, (2 feet of snow) and now, this will prevent them from freezing more. Be very careful all winter on our waterways. Thanks to 30 or so members that have paid up, the Zen Shack has oil heat! No sign of the white ermine yet. The mouse too has vanished. It's just me and Rocky now. All this membership thing has taken a surprising amount of work, and managing the second web site has taken up lots of my time. If you want to learn how to post your photos in our Photo Albums, write to gift girl. giftgirl@zenwaiter.com I am also going to be helping to sell snowmobile security devices this winter. They are called Lokkit. See it here soon. I can earn a small commission on every sale, and you can avoid getting robbed! Happy Sunday
Dec 11 2004 noon -10C 20 F Snowing like mad. 10 inches
new snow Spoke the the lovely Lory last night, famous from her years of bartending in the area. She says the club is up and rolling full time. There are sleds and trailers starting to file up from the south. The sound of whining sleds is in the air. There are sleds parked in front of the Glaciere, Cabanon, Refuge, Bistro, and everywhere else. It has begun. The Farmers Almanack said it would be an old fashioned winter, with many storms, blizzards, and massive snow dumps. We have already begun to confirm this prediction. Crazy Al is in the snow reemoval business, and is going night and day. That's it! zw.
December 10- 3:05 am Had a great chat with buddy Jerry Jeffries, an old hat at Internet marketing, one of the very first on the scene ten years ago when this stuff got going. He is the guy I call Blade Man! I met him three years ago at the Refuge on his brand new aluminum Blade sled.. man did that thing go! He says he's been an avid follower of the web site for years, which surprised me and delighted me. I am always amazed that anyone would want to listen to me carry on! Hahaah! Some days I'm up, and other days I'm down, and my reader goes along for the ride. Sharing my thoughts on here is frightening, cause I know that I basically spill most of it out right onto this black page... for all to see. A good exercise in humility I suppose, but it's a lot easier now that the door is closed and we're amongst friends.. Unless of course... there is a mole! Oh well... we'll just have to win the mole over too. I have to sleep now. I hope you all come up for the week... The forecast calls for more snow till Tuesday. People were riding all over today, and told me it was 7 out of ten! That's dam good for now.\The Tremblant side is still not open.
sleep ssssleep!
zw
December 9th 7:34 am Anyway, I ran around the village of
St-Zenon yesterday and took some pictures to stir your memory files.
There was a new 4 inches of snow during the day, and very windy. Crazy
Al had to plow my drive way twice. I have the photos, still inside the camera. I'm going to go for a walk up to the village first, to walk around and get my old body moving. I'll have a coffee at the Casse Croute and I'll try to snag a photo of the waitresses! Yesterday I visited Amanda. AAAAMMMMAANDA!
You remember Amanda? The blonde bar maid at the Bistro? Well guess
what? She bought that little bar at the top of the hill across from
RVR and turned it into the new generation of DesRosiers Bar! Yes,
that's right! The spirit of ROSEY'S lives on! Amanda remembers my name, and knows that I am a tea-totler. She makes you feel at home, and her new bar is very cozy. Her husband (I can almost hear your sighs..) Christian, is a very nice man, the son of ROSEY! So I asked them if Rosey will come and work there. No, Mom doesn't work much anymore, except around her own house a block away. But they assured me that she does appear on the weekends to visit. Rosey's ... I mean Le Pitit D'ero... is bound to be a hot spot this winter. You can go and eat at my favorite restauraunt across the street, (La Casse Croute des Parcs), then walk across the street to the bar. There is also that municipal parking lot next door. I don't know if you're aloud to park there. In any even, The D'ero, pronounced "dare-oh", will be a great mix of locals folks and Americans, plus we'll throw in a few Ontarians and Montrealers. Should be a party, and Steve Solo also performs there on a regular basis, playing old time rock and roll. That's it for me... One anti-inflammatory, one aspirin, then I'm off for a walk up the hill. xxoo zw.
December 7th, 3:49 am I was just going to bed, but I thought, what the hell, another five minutes, and I could share a thought or two. Dr C called tonight to book at Crazy Al's Place, it will be so much fun when the old gang gets back up here again. This pay thing has turned into a hell of a pile of work, then I discovered that a very few members, were making heroes of themselves, and handing out the passwords and user names to their friends, and in one case, to their motel customers. GRRRRRR!.. This is going to be a terrific pain in the arse I fear. I will just have to change the passwords from time to time but it will take me hours. If your password doesn't work, e-mail me and I'll send you another one BANG, just like that! I am afraid it will be necessary to do this to stop the guys that for some reason do not think it through. If I have to spend my time policing the thing, and changing passwords, I will have no time to write, or shoot, or travel. as it is, I have no time. I worked since 6 am this morning to try and catch up. It is now almost 4 am! That trip wiped me out. Photos in a few days. Newfoundland is stunningly beautiful, and the people are very nice. Good news... we have about 30 members who actually paid! That makes 1200 bucks.. and I have paid the mortgage, and had my oil tank filled. The house is still not warm yet, but it will be in 24 hours. My goal is 100 members for the year. 4,000.US bucks will now become 4,800. cnd bucks, and that will pay the bills for the winter months. I have a Nissan car now, a 99, and it is cheap to run and doesn't break! (knock on wood). One fellow wrote me today, cause his password didn't work anymore, he said he needed his "Zen Fix"! I hear this alot. When you guys say stuff like this, I feel very appreciated.. WHOA! That feels good. I can't seem to win with the locals. I write about them, and they bitch and complain. If I don't write about them, they do the same. Every year Dennis spreads lies about me, what an imagination. And to think I just wrote 1,000 word essay on our bulletin board in defense of the Cabanon. What a waste of time. This year I have realized that the snowmobile world of Quebec, is much bigger than just this one horse town, so I will try to escape into other regions as often as I can. It takes energy from my soul to do this, and money for the gas. As long as I know I have you behind me, and my faith, I know we'll be fine. I never tell you before hand, because I am afraid someone will burn down my house. On the other hand I know that God deals with those that mess with his children, and oh yes, I believe that I am his child. (Oh ME of little faith.) I have an invitation to go up to Labrador City, Labrador. This place is total sled town. Everyone goes to work on a sled... they have to half the time as their is too much snow. I may head up there once I get caught up. I think you would dig this kind of trip. The locals just don't get it. I write for you, not for them. This year, only one Motel has paid me, Motel M. The others, I hope, will follow suit. The bottom line is this, that if you Ontarians and Americans, and Quebecers want to keep this site going, you'll have to help.... and keep helping. The cash ain't gonna come from here, that's for certain. One other concer, my computer is on it's last legs. Many operations take me twice as long as need be, because it is old and tired. I have worn out three hard drives already. I am somehow going to have to replace this unit soon. I will be looking at about 2,000. I hope to get this by Christmas, because if this old one craps out again, I am in deep KA KA. And as many of you know, I always look after my 'Moma Zen' at Christmas.. I take her to see all her grand kids in Ontario. I'll be gone for the week before Xmas. Mom is doing very well, and has been on blood thinners for two years, No more strokes! A million thanks once again for your support... WOW! 30 people! I can hardly believe it! What a vote of confidence.. Please go today, and add one little comment on our bulletin boards. This is your responsibility as a member, and it will help keep the site strong and vibrant with good energy and info. Also, click at least one ad or sponsor today. THANKS! zen
PS: Challenge for the week... Get ONE friend to sign up with us in the next week... I dare you! zw
December 5th
update I got home this morning at 5
am after a 28 hour drive through a blizzard. I spent 24 hours the
day before, waiting in the truck at the ferry terminal, until the
gale subsided and we could cross back to Nova Scotia. More on this
story soon, right after a nap. Rumour has it that our local chamber of commerce, who refuses to acknowledge my existence, or my work, has hired someone "to do my job!" HAHAHA! Now that is funny. They wouldn't recognize my "job description" if they tripped over it. Supposedly, some person is going to ride around on the trails every day in our area, and then go and make a trail report on the Chamber of Commerce web site every night. I personally hope this turns out to be true. I can't wait for the guy (or gal) to have the privilege of reporting on a rainy day when the trails vanish before his very eyes in a freak heat wave... (God forbid). They would have to fire the guy on the spot if he told the truth! Also, Tourism Lanaudiere has also built a new snowmobile web site, in order to make my site obsolete and unnecessary I presume. Unfortunately, their site is again, just a one sided dialogue, refusing to allow actual riders to communicate. God forbid they have a bulletin board where tourists can say what they are thinking Yikes! I have to sleep now. I suppose if you are hot to ride, you could ride today, but you'd catch a few rocks and branches here and there. You could have fun, but the weather is not reliable yet. As usual you could enjoy early season riding on limited trails. You have to be adventurous and open minded for this, and you give up the right to complain if anything goes wrong weather wise, trail wise, and gas supply and restaurant wise. Some things are still closed on the trail and may limit your riding. More in a few days, right now I am off to bed. I just drove for 28 hours straight through blizzards, and also had to wait 24 hours for a ferry to get off of Newfoundland, which of course, is an island.
zen
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