Blessing The Bikes

To the Editor,

I wish to thank everyone who assisted with the 2000 Blessing of the Bikes and Riders on Saturday, 6/24. The kitchen crew – Jim Maurer who was first up then joined by Chuck Samson, Ed Dzitko, Boyd Saxton, and David Brown. Simultaneously, Alice Saxton, Warren Hoppmeyer, and yours truly were arranging Fellowship Hall for breakfast. When serving time came, Jim joined by Mary Patterson were at the serving table to scoop up the scrambled eggs, sausage, and pancakes.

Our first bikers, Barbara and Lee Fields of Newtown, arrived on their bikes previous to the coffee being perked. You may have seen the picture of Barb on her “Gold Wing” in The Bee from last year’s event. They were followed closely by Diana and Marty Gucker plus several of their fellow Hat City Riders in force on their Harleys. By 9:30 the tables were sufficiently occupied. Rev Pfeiffer and Mary Patterson offered a communal blessing within the hall and then proceeded with individual blessings for bikes and bikers outside after breakfast. Boyd Saxton also assisted with these.

This was the first year we offered plaques. The youngest rider award went to Adella May Dzitko at 19 months on a toddler trike. Our oldest rider award went to Kit Hall at 68 years young riding a 1988 FXR super glide. While he has ridden for 50 years, Rick Arnold of Newtown beat this record with 51 years of riding. Rick and wife April both ride and can often also be seen at our “Pasta Project” dinners. Thanks for the support! Bill Kolesar of Newtown, riding a 1961 BSA super Rocket of which he has been the only owner, got the oldest motorcycle award. The furthest distance traveled award wend by default to Bruce and Renee Uluski of Ansonia although we know people were in attendance from Norwalk and North Haven. Unfortunately, they neglected to sign in.

Lots of people ask, what is a “Bike Blessing?” I guess one definition would be a group of like-minded people getting together for a special, spiritual bonding. The riders of motorcycles, bicycles, and anything with wheels have a special enthusiasm and appreciation for what they do, individually and collectively. Adella May’s example of joy as she posed and enjoyed herself is also indicative of many adults who  have lost the childish charm but still enjoy the thrill of riding. Chuck Samson’s kiddy carrier is another example of introducing youngsters to a great, life long sport!

Several non-bikers and church members were in attendance to enjoy the event and appreciate the outreach to the community and beyond. Compliments were paid to Terry and assistants for their sincerity and support of the project. It was wonderful to see Rich Carlson, who rode his bike and volunteered to help next year.

Once again, Thanks to Everyone who helped make this our most successful “Blessing of the Bikers” to date. It was a perfect day for a wonderful ride to share the fun, fellowship, and faith at this special event.

Sincerely,

Marty Maciag and Alice Saxton

Church Hill Road, Sandy Hook                                    June 27, 2000