Our 2012 Weeklong ride will commence, Saturday, June 23, 2010 thru Thursday, June 28, 2012.
We are contacting parishes now to be part of the 2012 tour.
Contact Lou Terzo, 860 649-1546, or at twoterzos@att.net if you are interested.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Brake the Cycle Weeklong 2011 Journals
BTC 2011 Day 1, Manchester to Rocky Hill via Hartford and New Britain.
We began our 2011 ride just like all the others...we all came to St. B's and gathered. We loaded the support vehicles with our "stuff". some say that I brought too much with me. I look back on that and I believe I did. I should have thought more about those is poverty who have little to carry with them. I brought far too much, a sign of having too much perhaps.
It was exciting to see Eric and Tom Sacerdote there for their real first BTC ride. Little did they know their lives would be changed and their "family" would grow.
Some of us noticed the Channel 3 news van and wondered, "could they be for us?" We were doubtful. But guess what, they were. So nice to have that initial publicity. Must have been a slow news day.
But at least we got on TV. Any exposure, even a little, helps our cause.
We finally got going around our designated time. Father Stephen sent us off with a blessing and we all had thoughts of his dad in our mind and hearts. Thanks Father.
The ride was like most, dodging the cracks in the road, waving to people we saw, chit chatting with each other, taking in the experience, hoping it wouldn't rain.
One funny thing that happened along the way was when Bob picked up the full can of gasoline in the middle of the road just before we got onto the Charter Oak bridge.
When we got to Wethersfield Ave I got chills. I thought of Matthew and would I possibly "see him" this morning.
When we got to Casa de Francisco I was happy for our first stop and wondered what to expect. As we wondered into the room for Teresa to speak to us I hung back to talk to a few of the guys that were sitting there. I asked them if they were wondering why we were there dressed all funny. The first man said "no, I'm not". I said, "really?" and them I told him anyway. We started a nice conversation and he warmed up and really got into it. His name was Noel and the other gentleman's name was David. Both have been out of work for a long time. Both were a bit angry but both were hopeful. Both told me they wanted to work and would do just about anything. A third gentleman, overhearing our conversation, chimed in with his comments about all the money the government is spending overseas to "help" and he asked "what is being done for us here at home?". Good question. This was the beginning of our 2011 journey and the them we would hear more frequently.
Teresa Wierbicki provided a wonderful overview of what good was being done with the now Supportive Housing. It really was nice for those living there although the numbers able to receive help had to be reduced from the hundreds served by the Shelter to only the 40 living at the Casa.
We were educated again on the problems of those less fortunate than ourselves and we were educated on the needs and ongoing support required to keep Casa open.
We also learned about the assistance many of the surrounding churches provide and, of course, Carol Rizzo's meatball grinders!
We moved on to Billings Forge Community Works and met with Rita Decker-Parry. We were given the tour as Rita explained the good they are providing for those folks in Frog Hollow which we understand is the second poorest community in the United States after Brownsville Texas. We saw the Farmers Market which gives folks a means of selling their products and builds community.
The Farmers’ Market at Billings Forge was created in 2007 as a seasonal weekly market providing the residents of Billings Forge and the surrounding Frog Hollow neighborhood with access to fresh, local foods. The Farmers' Market creates a diverse meeting space to draw energy into Frog Hollow, particularly by engaging nearby capitol-area workers.
We ate lunch in the Cafe/Kitchen. The Kitchen brings together employment, education, access to healthy eating options, and a connection to the environment using hands-on training, community interactions, and a shared love for food.
We saw where the residents lived.
Today, approximately 270 residents live within the 98 units of mixed-income, affordable housing housed within the Billings Forge complex.
Check out their website for more information. http://www.billingsforgeworks.org/
While at Billings Forge it began to rain, actually it began to pour.
We began our ride to New Britain.
When we did arrive at Representative Chris Murphy's office, we were soaked to the skin, dripping wet. Yet, we were invited in.
We met with Lee Reynolds, Outreach Director, and Megan Forgione, Staff Assistant. Both were attentive to our concerns and needs.
It was cold and chilly in their office since we were so wet. We were invited into their conference room which had some light colored brown chairs and sofas. We were concerned we would ruin them but we told not to worry.
Well during the discussion which was really a good conversation, I noticed where I had my arms on the arms of the chair I was sitting in began to turn a dark brown from the wet. I immediately got up and noticed the biggest wet spot on the seat of the chair. I got up and stood behind the chair but continued to drip, drip drip all while our conversation continued.
We exchanged good comments and both Megan and Lee seemed genuinely interested and seemed to be sincere in that they would pass on to Chris Murphy our concerns. They even encouraged further get togethers on a regular basis. Sort of wanting to be accountable? We hope that is true.
I think we left believing this was one of our best political visits, especially since Chris Murphy will be running for Senator.
We left New Britain and it was pouring. Yet we continued to ride. We were uncomfortable. Those in poverty can't get out of the rain and deal with the uncomfort of poverty everyday. So we road on.
I was reminded of what Lee Reynolds said in our meeting. She said she mentioned to Megan wondering if we would come because of the rain. She added that she was sure we would be there because of our mission. And we were.
We arrived at St. James and began the process of showers and unpacking for the night. Tom Sacerdote was a blessing since he arranged all of the logistics with Carol Rizzo. All went well.
We gathered for our pasta dinner and all those desserts. I connected with my Aetna friend Nancy and after dinner we presented to about 16 folks.
Presentation went well and we proceeded back to the church and the upper rooms where we would spend the night together on our air mattresses.
All in all the first day was over and quite a success. Eric and Tom were indoctrinated and hooked.
Peace,
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal- Day 2 - Rocky Hill to Waterbury
We all had a pretty good night's sleep. Jokes were made about some high maintenance couple.
We awoke to breakfast and were greeted by Tom S as he arrived early from his home down the road, where he slept for the night.
One by one we came down, first for coffee, then some food. We seem to always be eating. Sometimes I feel guilty we have so much to eat while those we do this ride for do not.
When we left St. James, we were given a send-off by some of the folks that were there last evening as well as a group of kids. Pretty cool I think.
As we road towards the Berlin Turnpike, this is where we realized Claire's right brake was not working properly and also when Anne had her two flat tires. I was mistaken yesterday.
After Claire and Anne got their bikes on a support vehicle and left for repairs, the rest of us continued our ride. We had to be in Waterbury supposedly by 11:00 am.
Well, the ride was a bit longer than expected and we hit some mean hills, especially one in particular where one by one we peeled off and walked. A few of us made it to the top but it was a real struggle. 10% grade uphill is not easy. Again, you have to think of those in poverty and the uphill battle they have everyday. We only struggle for a short time and know we will have a place to rest at night, a roof over our heads and a nice, hot shower. And, we have support as we ride. They do not have anywhere near the support we have.
Well we had to make a call and tell Barbara at the Soup Kitchen in Waterbury that we would be a little late.
We arrived there as they were beginning to whine down. We did get served lunch and that stirred an interesting discussion with several of the clients there. Claire and I had a nice conversation with a gentleman named Todd. He was quite articulate and told us stories about the struggles going on in Waterbury where the unemployment rate is the highest in the state. He has been out of work for over a year and is now collecting $30 a week unemployment. That is it! Think about it...living on just $30 a week and he thinks he might get cut off shortly. He wants to work and will do anything. He used to work at the hospital and has some skills but there is nothing available. He said he has over 200 homeless friends. He was bitter to a degree but was also positive and smiling. His friend, John, on the other hand, was really angry and resentful that we were even there. When Claire asked how Todd felt about his situation, John went off on her angrily asking her what she knew about poverty and why were we there eating their food when he had friends out on the green that hadn't eaten in 2 days like himself. All Claire and I could do was agree with him and apologize.
This was the first time I felt kind of embarrassed that we were visiting a soup kitchen. The resentment got to me. Although the women who talked to us about the soup kitchen was glad we were there and glad we were interacting with the clients. So....
I asked Todd what he was going to do for the rest of the afternoon. He said "look for a job". He sounded frustrated. We heard the same theme about why our government cannot help those at home who need help.
We had also met Glenda when we first arrived. She had been homeless for 3 years but she had a big smile on her face because she had just gotten an apartment and was ready to move in. All she could say was that she hung in there and stayed positive. She had worked for Pitney Bows and got sick, lost her job and her place of living and was out on the street. I cannot imagine being homeless for even one day.
After our visit at the soup kitchen, we went across the street to the YMCA and met with Jim O'Rourke, Exec. Director, who gave us a quick summary of the goo they were doing, especially for the youth of Waterbury and the various programs they provided that feed the kids and kept them out of trouble.
He also told us some stories like about the women who came in looking for help and would not make eye contact because she was so embarrassed. When she was successful and on her feet and could afford things, she never gave. Now, down on her luck and asking for assistance, she found it difficult. Could be any one of us. After all, those in poverty look just like you and me.
Jim also advised us of the union no vote and what he thought it meant to the state and to his operation who already had a funding cut. He was afraid of further cuts sine the YMCA is non-profit and also because he has a lot of member who are state employees.
Everyone seems to be hurting.
We hung around Waterbury for some time. Has some coffee and took in the environment. I kept wondering how many of the people I saw on the green were in poverty, hadn't eaten or were out of work. I am sure there were plenty.
We finally made our way to Blessed Sacrament and I went in and met with Rene Raymunt, our host. they were getting ready for our pasta dinner and then our presentation. Rene and Linda Hendrickson would take us over to their homes for showers and then we would come back for our meal and presentation.
The three couples all went to Rene's house. She had two Boston Terriers but they didn't bother any of us.
Joan and I slept on a big blowup mattress that lost air during the night and we would up in the center on top of each other.
There were not a lot of people at the presentation but they interacted with us and were engaging. I thought the presentation went quite well. Very successful evening and the meal was excellent. Again too much food.
We got back to Rene's house, chit chatted for a bit and off to bed. Day 2 was complete.
Day 3 tomorrow.
Peace,
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal- Day 3 - Waterbury to Milford
We all arrived back at Blessed Sacrament around the designated time, those from Linda's house right on the dot.
Doug Hall, Jean Pierre, and Wayne joined us. Tom Sac left us for a the weekend.
We had all eaten breakfast at the homes we stayed at for the night, so we were pretty much ready to go. There would be no poverty centers or political stops on this ride today.
I got a chance to ride up front since Wayne was going to bring up he rear. I enjoyed riding with Johnnie F and Doug. We got too far out in front and had to stop along the way. Eric and Anne were right behind us. We waited along side of the road for the rest of the group to catch up. In the meantime a women in the house across the street from where we stopped asked if we needed anything. Johnnie said maybe a restroom. She said sure and invited all of us in to her home. How nice to welcome complete strangers into her home. This is again part of these rides I find so amazing, the hospitality of people. I am humbled by it.
The rest of the group got here and also were welcomed to use the restroom. A very nice break although we would be breaking shortly down at Rolando's on Rt. 67.
The ride was smooth and not to difficult. Downhill as they say.
We all had previously provided Wendy with our Subway orders (nice suggestion Wendy) and the support folks did their thing and got us our lunch. We did not eat it until we actually got to Milford which we did earlier than expected. I guess the 30 miles went by quicker than we all thought. Since we were down at the beach where St. Gabriel's was, everyone enjoyed the extra time.
We ate our lunch under a shady tree near the beach. Again we feasted.
As we all gathered on the stone wall near the water's edge and were getting our picture taken by Joan and Wendy, Sue came running over to get into the picture and proceeded to step right on the pile of potato chips Joan was munching on. It was funnier in person.
We all relaxed until just before 3:00 when the reporter from the Milford Mirror was to greet us.
Br. Larry suggested we bike up the street, wait for the signal and bike in together for the photo shoot.
We did just that. Some of us were interviewed as was Br. Larry, our contact from St. Gabriel's.
We still had some time before the 4:30 mass and that's when we found out that we would not be doing a presentation that evening. This was a surprise to all of us.
Bob did get to speak at mass after communion and was excellent. Fr. Maroney welcomed all of us at mass and we had greeted the parishioners before and after mass.
Right after mass we gathered in the church hall and had a fantastically delicious pasta and meatball dinner. When the plate of meatballs piled high were brought in we all went "Whoo". It was great.
We dined with the Social Action folks and Br. Larry.
After dinner we were driven off to the respectful homes were we would all be staying.
I think everyone had a different experience at the place they rested their bodies and heads.
Joan, me, Anne, Pam, and Johnnie when to the same house, Barbara who made the meatballs and pasta. Would you believe we ate more while chatting on their back porch. Typical Italian host.
And to top it off, Joan's Italian cousin and a relative of Barbara's are from the same home town in Italy. Joan got her cousin Teddy on the phone and he and Barbara had a conversation like they were long lost relatives. A small world indeed.
This was our second home with a dog. Johnnie, Pam, and Anne slept in an RV parked in the parking lot.
Here maybe some of you others can share your experience that night with those you stayed with.
We all slept well.
The end of Day 3. Peace, Lou
Lou, I just wanted to remind you that this was the morning that I accidentally activated the alarm in the school and alerted the police to arrive at Blessed Sacrament. Almost arrested.
Good thing Art knew the turn-off command.
Peace. Bob
Some thoughts from the King's and Ryan's on their accommodations over night. We stayed with Lauren who is a CCD teacher at St Gabriel's who lived on Shore Drive with her three children. Lauren took us on a tour of the Milford Harbor and some ice cream before we settled in at her beautiful home for sleep. In the morning, we had a small breakfast and headed for Mass at St Gabriel's.
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 4 - Milford to Woodbridge to Southbury
Definitely will need some assistance with Day 4 Journal Milford to Southbury from the second part of the team.
Those of us who had to ride to Woodbridge for a presentation at Our Lady of the Assumption had to get back to St. Gabriel's by 7:30.
I thought I overslept and went out to wake Anne, Pam, and Johnnie in the RV. Little did I remember that I told them 6:30 and not 5:30. They were not happy.
We had our breakfast at Barbara's house, eggs, english muffins. We got to St. Gabe's at 7:30 and were greeted by Br. Larry and Eric and Fr. Maroney.
We hugged and thanked everyone and set off, four of us. me, Johnnie F, Pam, and Anne and Joan and Dave as support.
I was a little apprehensive about the Que Sheet since it was my first one. All seemed to go well and the early morning ride was absolutely peaceful and beautiful. Hardly any cars. I think I said "Car Back" only three times the entire 15 miles.
We got to Our Lady of the Assumption without incident and waited a bit before Betty McVetty greeted us. My original contact was Roberta Alvarez but she could not be here this morning. She was disappointed as was I. She was so nice over the phone and as a host.
We began setting up and to my surprise I did not have the right cord to connect my computer to the projector. Panic! We tried to get someone from the parish to get us a cord. No luck. I tried calling John Ryan but all were at mass or doing the St. Gabe's presentation. And, the cell service was spotty at best.
Pam had left, picked up by her husband, off to Kelly and Kurt's daughter's christening.
Luckily Anne's phone had service and I left John Ryan a panic message. When I called back because time was getting close to our presentation time, I found out that Kathy and Wendy were on their way with the right cord. Apparently both were packed together after our last presentation.
They dropped it off with 5 minutes to spare.
As I was waiting for them to get there I saw Pam's husband, Chris, out in the parking lot. I was worried that something was wrong with Pam. she had lost her wallet and returned to look for it in the van. They had gotten all the way to Wallingford and had to turn around. Her wallet was right where she put it down in the van.
I was struggling to get the presentation to work. I hooked up the cord okay but when I pressed the buttons to get the presentation from my computer to the screen my computer went black. Nothing. I was going to have people gather around the computer screen if necessary if we could not get the projection on the big screen. Now I was in trouble. I started pressing buttons like crazy. I guess the Holy Spirit was with me. Somehow the screen filled with the presentation. I was elated.
We presented to about 25 folks but a lot were Social Justice committee folks. but they were engaged and we interacted well. One lady was angry because she was tauting this presentation to her Social Justice friends who go out to breakfast together every Sunday. She expected them to be here at the presentation. They chose breakfast out.
But I believe the presentation went well. When we did the slide about What does it mean to be in Poverty? a little old Italian woman said she could answer that. Anne prompted her to do so. she shared how it was growing up poor. Like I said, good engagement with our audience.
I was very pleased this morning.
After the presentation Johnnie and I said goodbye to Anne. Big hugs.
Then Johnnie and I started off to Southbury with Dave and Joan as our support. We rode for about 5 more miles and we all stopped for lunch at Dunkin donuts. We spent a lot of time just talking Social Justice there. We were making great time and did not want to get to Southbury too early. We were wondering how all was working out back at St. Gabriel's and the two after mass presentations.
John Ryan and I spoke and we decided that Johnnie and I would wait for them in Southbury before going to Sacred Heart. Apparently Eric and Wayne were going to ride the entire way and Claire, Bob, Jean Pierre were going to ride from Rolando's.
When Johnnie and I got to Southbury we road on Poverty Road, then we went for Ice Cream. Again we talked and rested until we heard from Kathy when Bob et al would be on Main Street. We gathered at Poverty Road and Main and waited for Eric and Wayne to arrive. The new riders road their bikes on Poverty Road.
We all road into Sacred heart together.
We had a wonderful greeting of quite a number of people. After we settled some and stored our bikes, we all left with our host families to shower.
Joan and I went to Sue Eskierski's who was not only an avid golfer but also a cyclist. She had a lovely home, lived by herself with her dog Savannah, and was the nicest host.
We hit it off perfectly.
She also owned a gourmet Pasta shop on Poverty road and supplied the pasta used for this night's supper.
We again feasted. About 35 folks from Sacred Heart were there. Fr. Joe and Chuck Dietsch were perfect hosts as expected.
We had another great presentation but this time Eric, Sue Ryan, Jean Pierre presented as they did earlier at St. Gabriel's. It was special especially Jean Pierre when he talked about "Think about it!; Talk about it!; Take Action!". He virtually "kicked" poverty right out of Connecticut like kicking a soccer ball.
Sacred Heart is a special place to visit with our connection with Fr. Joe.
We all left in an excellent mode.
Sue took Joan and me to Stop and Shop to get our breakfast for the next morning. We also got to see her Gourmet Pasta Shop, Villarina's and had some Gelato and some Italian chocolate. I was in heaven. Sue also gave Joan a jar of their best selling pasta sauce.
This was by far our (Joan and me) best night. We slept wonderfully and sue could not have been any nicer. Thanks Fr. Joe!!
We had to rest up as the next day was going to be our longest and maybe toughest.
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 5 - Southbury to West Hartford
We woke around 6:30 and had breakfast with our host, Sue. We were to be back at sacred heart for coffee/donuts for those who wanted it before the 8:30 mass. All arrived on time. Wayne left us last night. Tom Breen joined us.
Seems to work pretty well with cyclists coming even for just a couple of days. Thanks so much to support folks that worked out the comings and goings so perfectly.
Jeanette supported the day before. Kathy MacDonald and Mary Nason were there as usual for the time they could be. I appreciate everyone's participation. Thank you.
Fr. Joe started mass right on the dot. We were all so pleased to be in his presence again and listening to his homily. We were reminded of what we had to give up and what Sacred Heart gained for yet another time.
We prayed for Eric's grandmother who passed away the night before.
Fr. Joe's homily hit home and was a bit challenging. Justice is easy, Christianity is hard. We still are digesting that.
So we left for West Hartford feeling good, blessed, and in high spirits. Sacred Heart is a special place for us. We visited on this ride back in 2004, our first Connecticut tour.
We headed for West Hartford via route 67 and 6 most of the way. Today I would ride in the back again and found that was going to be a challenge after riding upfront yesterday. But, I made the most of it with the company I was with, Jean Pierre, John Ryan, Claire, and Pam. We talked, encouraged, sang and rode those hills together. "On that Holy Mountain" got us going especially Jean Pierre and Claire. We had fun, if abusing yourself riding up hill is considered fun. But, if you think of the poor while doing those hills, you get to the top, one pedal stroke at a time.
We were looking forward to ice cream at Gilly's in Thomiston. It was out of business. Bummer! We were all going to get in the support vehicles instead of biking up the nest big hill which appeared to be a bit dangerous because of the lack of a good shoulder. We all discussed and it was decided that three of us would attempt riding up the hill. Johnnie F, Eric, and myself would head for the hill.
Every other BTC ride we did on this road we went down this hill and up the nest gradual hill to Watertown. We were doing it in reverse this year.
The hill was real steep at first and we struggled. Lots of traffic and even a funeral procession of cars. But we all got to the top. The three of us would meet the rest up the road for a pizza lunch.
We rode for a while and came to the green in Terryville across from Immaculate Conception parish. They opened their door for us to use their rest room. How nice! The Holy Spirit was with us.
The pizza was delicious and we all filled ourselves again. Seems we do eat a lot on these rides.
After lunch we got back on the bikes. "Riders Up!"
We continued our way to West Hartford. Johnnie and Eric took to the front while the rest of us sort of spanned out. The traffic was somewhat of a concern but we all managed fine. Pam almost took out a mailman crossing in front of her as she barreled down a hill.
We got close to Holy Family Retreat Center and Johnnie and ERic were patiently waiting for us. We all road in to Holy Family together although the road was being repaired and was not suited well for a road bike. Jean Pierre on his mountain bikes was the happiest.
We all got to our rooms showered, a few snacks and then dinner of roast beef and other goodies. The food was wonderful. Fr. Stephen biked over from St. Bridget and although a bit sweaty enjoyed the dinner and, of course, his birthday cake, as we celebrated his 46th birthday.
We finished dinner and then got ready for the presentation at St. Peter Claver's parish.
The presentation went wel again although we did not have a large crowd, approximately 10 to 15 and there were several small children.
We followed the same presentation format with the presenters as we did at Sacred Heart. Jean Pierre was louder and as good as he was previously. He quietly got the message across. Tom Sacredote presented for the first time and was excellent. He brings another dynamic to the team.
And, as was started down in Milford, when we got to the Social Justice committee part of the presentation, we invited the representative from that parish to say a few words. So we invited Gigi Frailey to speak as we had Br. Larry in Milford and Chuck Dietsch in Southbury.
After the presentation we went back to Holy Family for some snacks, talk, and a singing of our BTC song, "We Must Not Be Silent".
We discussed the plans for the next day, our Finale, and we decided we would do the shorter ride to get to Bloomfield.
We we all tired and all but Johnnie, Pam and I left for bed. The three of us continued talking and sharing for a while longer.
The day ended peacefully just like the others. We are all blessed.
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 6 - Finale - West Hartford to Bloomfield
We all awoke and got ready for 7:00 am mass at Holy Family. We would har another inspiring homily by Fr. John Baptist Pesce. He was as good as ever. Today was the feast day of St. Irenaeus, a perfect saint for our mission of poverty awareness. In Fr. John's homily he emphasized we should all celebrate the dignity of oneself. His homily could not have been any better for us. It was like it was planned.
We left so blessed and feeling good.
Thank you Fr. Terry again for your hospitality!
We all went over to the other room for breakfast and we feasted again. Excellent breakfast food to get us energized for the day's ride. We also made sandwiches for lunch later.
Charlie joins us this morning. That was a nice addition for the day.
We gathered, prayed and left with a lot of time to take a nice leisurely ride to Bloomfield and Foodshare.
We had 11 cyclists this morning.
The ride was only a bit over 10 miles and we were making great progress as the route was quite easy today.
At this rate we would get to Foodshare too early. John Ryan suggested when we got to West Hartford that we hang around town and engage people. It was a great suggestion but no one took him up on it. We kept pedaling on.
We got to a small green and I decided to call Sarah Santora at Foodshare. She suggested we arrive around 11:45. Since it was only 10:30 we had some time to kill. So, Pam suggested we all discuss the weeklong and what stood out this year for us. A perfect idea.
Dave Kohl started s off mentioning how he had some kind of conversion this year and now feels he would like to cycle with us next year. This got us all going. We began to share ideas and feelings. It was suggested we go to those committed parishes a week prior to the weeklong and speak at their masses about BTC and the following week. It was also suggested we have a rally/protest in Hartford for poverty awareness and have many of those in poverty attend. We discussed having two teams of BTC cyclists especially on the weekend. Many shared what struck them most about the ride this year. A few mentioned we should have more of a resulting "Take Action" step.
The whole thing was the highlight of the 6 days in my opinion.
We had to cut the discussion short as we had to get to Foodshare on time.
Once we got there, Sarah and other Foodshare folks enthusiastically welcomed us. The Catholic Transcript was there to interview and talk to some of us. They documented our ride. Also Channel 61 Fox showed up and interviewed me. However, it never was broadcast on their nightly news. It reminded me what we have heard before, poverty is not a hot news item.
We were glad and fortunate to have Representative John Larson speak at this year's Finale. He was great and complementary on what we were doing and spoke in depth about the poverty issue of Connecticut and in the US.
I was fortunate to be the MC and introduce the speakers. I first mentioned a bit about BTC, where we rode this year, the hills, the rain, the saddle sores and how people in poverty suffer everyday where we only "suffer" for a few hours.
Fr Stephen first spoke and was excellent as always. He mentioned St. Irenaeus, Our mission as Christians and that it was our goal to put Foodshare out of business.
After Fr. Stephen and John Larson, the next speaker was a representative from the Governor's office, Deb Heinrich. She is the non-profit liaison. she to was excellent, thanked us for what we are doing. She also was grateful for what Foodshare and CABHN are doing.
Next were Sarah and Ellen Small Billard from CABHN. Sarah discussed the good Foodshare is doing for those less fortunate and their advocacy as well.
Ellen discussed CABHN's goal and mentioned their mission. We are fortunate to have partnered with CABHN going forward.
You should all connect with CABHN and get their news letter to stay informed on upcoming legislation that impacts low income folks. This is a "Take Action" step.
I ended the Finale by mentioning PEDAL and that we would be back on the roads again next year.
Great Finale!!
Some of us stayed and took part in the Hunger 101 workshop that followed. The experience was very informative as we were able to see how it felt for those in poverty and their everyday struggles to makes ends meet and what means and resources they "had" or didn't have. We actually walked in their footsteps.
If you get the chance to take this Workshop, "Do it!"
The a few of us rode back to St. Bridget to complete this year's journey. We arrived at St. Bridget without incident.
An end to a great 6 day "weeklong" experience.
Peace,
Lou
We began our 2011 ride just like all the others...we all came to St. B's and gathered. We loaded the support vehicles with our "stuff". some say that I brought too much with me. I look back on that and I believe I did. I should have thought more about those is poverty who have little to carry with them. I brought far too much, a sign of having too much perhaps.
It was exciting to see Eric and Tom Sacerdote there for their real first BTC ride. Little did they know their lives would be changed and their "family" would grow.
Some of us noticed the Channel 3 news van and wondered, "could they be for us?" We were doubtful. But guess what, they were. So nice to have that initial publicity. Must have been a slow news day.
But at least we got on TV. Any exposure, even a little, helps our cause.
We finally got going around our designated time. Father Stephen sent us off with a blessing and we all had thoughts of his dad in our mind and hearts. Thanks Father.
The ride was like most, dodging the cracks in the road, waving to people we saw, chit chatting with each other, taking in the experience, hoping it wouldn't rain.
One funny thing that happened along the way was when Bob picked up the full can of gasoline in the middle of the road just before we got onto the Charter Oak bridge.
When we got to Wethersfield Ave I got chills. I thought of Matthew and would I possibly "see him" this morning.
When we got to Casa de Francisco I was happy for our first stop and wondered what to expect. As we wondered into the room for Teresa to speak to us I hung back to talk to a few of the guys that were sitting there. I asked them if they were wondering why we were there dressed all funny. The first man said "no, I'm not". I said, "really?" and them I told him anyway. We started a nice conversation and he warmed up and really got into it. His name was Noel and the other gentleman's name was David. Both have been out of work for a long time. Both were a bit angry but both were hopeful. Both told me they wanted to work and would do just about anything. A third gentleman, overhearing our conversation, chimed in with his comments about all the money the government is spending overseas to "help" and he asked "what is being done for us here at home?". Good question. This was the beginning of our 2011 journey and the them we would hear more frequently.
Teresa Wierbicki provided a wonderful overview of what good was being done with the now Supportive Housing. It really was nice for those living there although the numbers able to receive help had to be reduced from the hundreds served by the Shelter to only the 40 living at the Casa.
We were educated again on the problems of those less fortunate than ourselves and we were educated on the needs and ongoing support required to keep Casa open.
We also learned about the assistance many of the surrounding churches provide and, of course, Carol Rizzo's meatball grinders!
We moved on to Billings Forge Community Works and met with Rita Decker-Parry. We were given the tour as Rita explained the good they are providing for those folks in Frog Hollow which we understand is the second poorest community in the United States after Brownsville Texas. We saw the Farmers Market which gives folks a means of selling their products and builds community.
The Farmers’ Market at Billings Forge was created in 2007 as a seasonal weekly market providing the residents of Billings Forge and the surrounding Frog Hollow neighborhood with access to fresh, local foods. The Farmers' Market creates a diverse meeting space to draw energy into Frog Hollow, particularly by engaging nearby capitol-area workers.
We ate lunch in the Cafe/Kitchen. The Kitchen brings together employment, education, access to healthy eating options, and a connection to the environment using hands-on training, community interactions, and a shared love for food.
We saw where the residents lived.
Today, approximately 270 residents live within the 98 units of mixed-income, affordable housing housed within the Billings Forge complex.
Check out their website for more information. http://www.billingsforgeworks.org/
While at Billings Forge it began to rain, actually it began to pour.
We began our ride to New Britain.
When we did arrive at Representative Chris Murphy's office, we were soaked to the skin, dripping wet. Yet, we were invited in.
We met with Lee Reynolds, Outreach Director, and Megan Forgione, Staff Assistant. Both were attentive to our concerns and needs.
It was cold and chilly in their office since we were so wet. We were invited into their conference room which had some light colored brown chairs and sofas. We were concerned we would ruin them but we told not to worry.
Well during the discussion which was really a good conversation, I noticed where I had my arms on the arms of the chair I was sitting in began to turn a dark brown from the wet. I immediately got up and noticed the biggest wet spot on the seat of the chair. I got up and stood behind the chair but continued to drip, drip drip all while our conversation continued.
We exchanged good comments and both Megan and Lee seemed genuinely interested and seemed to be sincere in that they would pass on to Chris Murphy our concerns. They even encouraged further get togethers on a regular basis. Sort of wanting to be accountable? We hope that is true.
I think we left believing this was one of our best political visits, especially since Chris Murphy will be running for Senator.
We left New Britain and it was pouring. Yet we continued to ride. We were uncomfortable. Those in poverty can't get out of the rain and deal with the uncomfort of poverty everyday. So we road on.
I was reminded of what Lee Reynolds said in our meeting. She said she mentioned to Megan wondering if we would come because of the rain. She added that she was sure we would be there because of our mission. And we were.
We arrived at St. James and began the process of showers and unpacking for the night. Tom Sacerdote was a blessing since he arranged all of the logistics with Carol Rizzo. All went well.
We gathered for our pasta dinner and all those desserts. I connected with my Aetna friend Nancy and after dinner we presented to about 16 folks.
Presentation went well and we proceeded back to the church and the upper rooms where we would spend the night together on our air mattresses.
All in all the first day was over and quite a success. Eric and Tom were indoctrinated and hooked.
Peace,
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal- Day 2 - Rocky Hill to Waterbury
We all had a pretty good night's sleep. Jokes were made about some high maintenance couple.
We awoke to breakfast and were greeted by Tom S as he arrived early from his home down the road, where he slept for the night.
One by one we came down, first for coffee, then some food. We seem to always be eating. Sometimes I feel guilty we have so much to eat while those we do this ride for do not.
When we left St. James, we were given a send-off by some of the folks that were there last evening as well as a group of kids. Pretty cool I think.
As we road towards the Berlin Turnpike, this is where we realized Claire's right brake was not working properly and also when Anne had her two flat tires. I was mistaken yesterday.
After Claire and Anne got their bikes on a support vehicle and left for repairs, the rest of us continued our ride. We had to be in Waterbury supposedly by 11:00 am.
Well, the ride was a bit longer than expected and we hit some mean hills, especially one in particular where one by one we peeled off and walked. A few of us made it to the top but it was a real struggle. 10% grade uphill is not easy. Again, you have to think of those in poverty and the uphill battle they have everyday. We only struggle for a short time and know we will have a place to rest at night, a roof over our heads and a nice, hot shower. And, we have support as we ride. They do not have anywhere near the support we have.
Well we had to make a call and tell Barbara at the Soup Kitchen in Waterbury that we would be a little late.
We arrived there as they were beginning to whine down. We did get served lunch and that stirred an interesting discussion with several of the clients there. Claire and I had a nice conversation with a gentleman named Todd. He was quite articulate and told us stories about the struggles going on in Waterbury where the unemployment rate is the highest in the state. He has been out of work for over a year and is now collecting $30 a week unemployment. That is it! Think about it...living on just $30 a week and he thinks he might get cut off shortly. He wants to work and will do anything. He used to work at the hospital and has some skills but there is nothing available. He said he has over 200 homeless friends. He was bitter to a degree but was also positive and smiling. His friend, John, on the other hand, was really angry and resentful that we were even there. When Claire asked how Todd felt about his situation, John went off on her angrily asking her what she knew about poverty and why were we there eating their food when he had friends out on the green that hadn't eaten in 2 days like himself. All Claire and I could do was agree with him and apologize.
This was the first time I felt kind of embarrassed that we were visiting a soup kitchen. The resentment got to me. Although the women who talked to us about the soup kitchen was glad we were there and glad we were interacting with the clients. So....
I asked Todd what he was going to do for the rest of the afternoon. He said "look for a job". He sounded frustrated. We heard the same theme about why our government cannot help those at home who need help.
We had also met Glenda when we first arrived. She had been homeless for 3 years but she had a big smile on her face because she had just gotten an apartment and was ready to move in. All she could say was that she hung in there and stayed positive. She had worked for Pitney Bows and got sick, lost her job and her place of living and was out on the street. I cannot imagine being homeless for even one day.
After our visit at the soup kitchen, we went across the street to the YMCA and met with Jim O'Rourke, Exec. Director, who gave us a quick summary of the goo they were doing, especially for the youth of Waterbury and the various programs they provided that feed the kids and kept them out of trouble.
He also told us some stories like about the women who came in looking for help and would not make eye contact because she was so embarrassed. When she was successful and on her feet and could afford things, she never gave. Now, down on her luck and asking for assistance, she found it difficult. Could be any one of us. After all, those in poverty look just like you and me.
Jim also advised us of the union no vote and what he thought it meant to the state and to his operation who already had a funding cut. He was afraid of further cuts sine the YMCA is non-profit and also because he has a lot of member who are state employees.
Everyone seems to be hurting.
We hung around Waterbury for some time. Has some coffee and took in the environment. I kept wondering how many of the people I saw on the green were in poverty, hadn't eaten or were out of work. I am sure there were plenty.
We finally made our way to Blessed Sacrament and I went in and met with Rene Raymunt, our host. they were getting ready for our pasta dinner and then our presentation. Rene and Linda Hendrickson would take us over to their homes for showers and then we would come back for our meal and presentation.
The three couples all went to Rene's house. She had two Boston Terriers but they didn't bother any of us.
Joan and I slept on a big blowup mattress that lost air during the night and we would up in the center on top of each other.
There were not a lot of people at the presentation but they interacted with us and were engaging. I thought the presentation went quite well. Very successful evening and the meal was excellent. Again too much food.
We got back to Rene's house, chit chatted for a bit and off to bed. Day 2 was complete.
Day 3 tomorrow.
Peace,
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal- Day 3 - Waterbury to Milford
We all arrived back at Blessed Sacrament around the designated time, those from Linda's house right on the dot.
Doug Hall, Jean Pierre, and Wayne joined us. Tom Sac left us for a the weekend.
We had all eaten breakfast at the homes we stayed at for the night, so we were pretty much ready to go. There would be no poverty centers or political stops on this ride today.
I got a chance to ride up front since Wayne was going to bring up he rear. I enjoyed riding with Johnnie F and Doug. We got too far out in front and had to stop along the way. Eric and Anne were right behind us. We waited along side of the road for the rest of the group to catch up. In the meantime a women in the house across the street from where we stopped asked if we needed anything. Johnnie said maybe a restroom. She said sure and invited all of us in to her home. How nice to welcome complete strangers into her home. This is again part of these rides I find so amazing, the hospitality of people. I am humbled by it.
The rest of the group got here and also were welcomed to use the restroom. A very nice break although we would be breaking shortly down at Rolando's on Rt. 67.
The ride was smooth and not to difficult. Downhill as they say.
We all had previously provided Wendy with our Subway orders (nice suggestion Wendy) and the support folks did their thing and got us our lunch. We did not eat it until we actually got to Milford which we did earlier than expected. I guess the 30 miles went by quicker than we all thought. Since we were down at the beach where St. Gabriel's was, everyone enjoyed the extra time.
We ate our lunch under a shady tree near the beach. Again we feasted.
As we all gathered on the stone wall near the water's edge and were getting our picture taken by Joan and Wendy, Sue came running over to get into the picture and proceeded to step right on the pile of potato chips Joan was munching on. It was funnier in person.
We all relaxed until just before 3:00 when the reporter from the Milford Mirror was to greet us.
Br. Larry suggested we bike up the street, wait for the signal and bike in together for the photo shoot.
We did just that. Some of us were interviewed as was Br. Larry, our contact from St. Gabriel's.
We still had some time before the 4:30 mass and that's when we found out that we would not be doing a presentation that evening. This was a surprise to all of us.
Bob did get to speak at mass after communion and was excellent. Fr. Maroney welcomed all of us at mass and we had greeted the parishioners before and after mass.
Right after mass we gathered in the church hall and had a fantastically delicious pasta and meatball dinner. When the plate of meatballs piled high were brought in we all went "Whoo". It was great.
We dined with the Social Action folks and Br. Larry.
After dinner we were driven off to the respectful homes were we would all be staying.
I think everyone had a different experience at the place they rested their bodies and heads.
Joan, me, Anne, Pam, and Johnnie when to the same house, Barbara who made the meatballs and pasta. Would you believe we ate more while chatting on their back porch. Typical Italian host.
And to top it off, Joan's Italian cousin and a relative of Barbara's are from the same home town in Italy. Joan got her cousin Teddy on the phone and he and Barbara had a conversation like they were long lost relatives. A small world indeed.
This was our second home with a dog. Johnnie, Pam, and Anne slept in an RV parked in the parking lot.
Here maybe some of you others can share your experience that night with those you stayed with.
We all slept well.
The end of Day 3. Peace, Lou
Lou, I just wanted to remind you that this was the morning that I accidentally activated the alarm in the school and alerted the police to arrive at Blessed Sacrament. Almost arrested.
Good thing Art knew the turn-off command.
Peace. Bob
Some thoughts from the King's and Ryan's on their accommodations over night. We stayed with Lauren who is a CCD teacher at St Gabriel's who lived on Shore Drive with her three children. Lauren took us on a tour of the Milford Harbor and some ice cream before we settled in at her beautiful home for sleep. In the morning, we had a small breakfast and headed for Mass at St Gabriel's.
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 4 - Milford to Woodbridge to Southbury
Definitely will need some assistance with Day 4 Journal Milford to Southbury from the second part of the team.
Those of us who had to ride to Woodbridge for a presentation at Our Lady of the Assumption had to get back to St. Gabriel's by 7:30.
I thought I overslept and went out to wake Anne, Pam, and Johnnie in the RV. Little did I remember that I told them 6:30 and not 5:30. They were not happy.
We had our breakfast at Barbara's house, eggs, english muffins. We got to St. Gabe's at 7:30 and were greeted by Br. Larry and Eric and Fr. Maroney.
We hugged and thanked everyone and set off, four of us. me, Johnnie F, Pam, and Anne and Joan and Dave as support.
I was a little apprehensive about the Que Sheet since it was my first one. All seemed to go well and the early morning ride was absolutely peaceful and beautiful. Hardly any cars. I think I said "Car Back" only three times the entire 15 miles.
We got to Our Lady of the Assumption without incident and waited a bit before Betty McVetty greeted us. My original contact was Roberta Alvarez but she could not be here this morning. She was disappointed as was I. She was so nice over the phone and as a host.
We began setting up and to my surprise I did not have the right cord to connect my computer to the projector. Panic! We tried to get someone from the parish to get us a cord. No luck. I tried calling John Ryan but all were at mass or doing the St. Gabe's presentation. And, the cell service was spotty at best.
Pam had left, picked up by her husband, off to Kelly and Kurt's daughter's christening.
Luckily Anne's phone had service and I left John Ryan a panic message. When I called back because time was getting close to our presentation time, I found out that Kathy and Wendy were on their way with the right cord. Apparently both were packed together after our last presentation.
They dropped it off with 5 minutes to spare.
As I was waiting for them to get there I saw Pam's husband, Chris, out in the parking lot. I was worried that something was wrong with Pam. she had lost her wallet and returned to look for it in the van. They had gotten all the way to Wallingford and had to turn around. Her wallet was right where she put it down in the van.
I was struggling to get the presentation to work. I hooked up the cord okay but when I pressed the buttons to get the presentation from my computer to the screen my computer went black. Nothing. I was going to have people gather around the computer screen if necessary if we could not get the projection on the big screen. Now I was in trouble. I started pressing buttons like crazy. I guess the Holy Spirit was with me. Somehow the screen filled with the presentation. I was elated.
We presented to about 25 folks but a lot were Social Justice committee folks. but they were engaged and we interacted well. One lady was angry because she was tauting this presentation to her Social Justice friends who go out to breakfast together every Sunday. She expected them to be here at the presentation. They chose breakfast out.
But I believe the presentation went well. When we did the slide about What does it mean to be in Poverty? a little old Italian woman said she could answer that. Anne prompted her to do so. she shared how it was growing up poor. Like I said, good engagement with our audience.
I was very pleased this morning.
After the presentation Johnnie and I said goodbye to Anne. Big hugs.
Then Johnnie and I started off to Southbury with Dave and Joan as our support. We rode for about 5 more miles and we all stopped for lunch at Dunkin donuts. We spent a lot of time just talking Social Justice there. We were making great time and did not want to get to Southbury too early. We were wondering how all was working out back at St. Gabriel's and the two after mass presentations.
John Ryan and I spoke and we decided that Johnnie and I would wait for them in Southbury before going to Sacred Heart. Apparently Eric and Wayne were going to ride the entire way and Claire, Bob, Jean Pierre were going to ride from Rolando's.
When Johnnie and I got to Southbury we road on Poverty Road, then we went for Ice Cream. Again we talked and rested until we heard from Kathy when Bob et al would be on Main Street. We gathered at Poverty Road and Main and waited for Eric and Wayne to arrive. The new riders road their bikes on Poverty Road.
We all road into Sacred heart together.
We had a wonderful greeting of quite a number of people. After we settled some and stored our bikes, we all left with our host families to shower.
Joan and I went to Sue Eskierski's who was not only an avid golfer but also a cyclist. She had a lovely home, lived by herself with her dog Savannah, and was the nicest host.
We hit it off perfectly.
She also owned a gourmet Pasta shop on Poverty road and supplied the pasta used for this night's supper.
We again feasted. About 35 folks from Sacred Heart were there. Fr. Joe and Chuck Dietsch were perfect hosts as expected.
We had another great presentation but this time Eric, Sue Ryan, Jean Pierre presented as they did earlier at St. Gabriel's. It was special especially Jean Pierre when he talked about "Think about it!; Talk about it!; Take Action!". He virtually "kicked" poverty right out of Connecticut like kicking a soccer ball.
Sacred Heart is a special place to visit with our connection with Fr. Joe.
We all left in an excellent mode.
Sue took Joan and me to Stop and Shop to get our breakfast for the next morning. We also got to see her Gourmet Pasta Shop, Villarina's and had some Gelato and some Italian chocolate. I was in heaven. Sue also gave Joan a jar of their best selling pasta sauce.
This was by far our (Joan and me) best night. We slept wonderfully and sue could not have been any nicer. Thanks Fr. Joe!!
We had to rest up as the next day was going to be our longest and maybe toughest.
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 5 - Southbury to West Hartford
We woke around 6:30 and had breakfast with our host, Sue. We were to be back at sacred heart for coffee/donuts for those who wanted it before the 8:30 mass. All arrived on time. Wayne left us last night. Tom Breen joined us.
Seems to work pretty well with cyclists coming even for just a couple of days. Thanks so much to support folks that worked out the comings and goings so perfectly.
Jeanette supported the day before. Kathy MacDonald and Mary Nason were there as usual for the time they could be. I appreciate everyone's participation. Thank you.
Fr. Joe started mass right on the dot. We were all so pleased to be in his presence again and listening to his homily. We were reminded of what we had to give up and what Sacred Heart gained for yet another time.
We prayed for Eric's grandmother who passed away the night before.
Fr. Joe's homily hit home and was a bit challenging. Justice is easy, Christianity is hard. We still are digesting that.
So we left for West Hartford feeling good, blessed, and in high spirits. Sacred Heart is a special place for us. We visited on this ride back in 2004, our first Connecticut tour.
We headed for West Hartford via route 67 and 6 most of the way. Today I would ride in the back again and found that was going to be a challenge after riding upfront yesterday. But, I made the most of it with the company I was with, Jean Pierre, John Ryan, Claire, and Pam. We talked, encouraged, sang and rode those hills together. "On that Holy Mountain" got us going especially Jean Pierre and Claire. We had fun, if abusing yourself riding up hill is considered fun. But, if you think of the poor while doing those hills, you get to the top, one pedal stroke at a time.
We were looking forward to ice cream at Gilly's in Thomiston. It was out of business. Bummer! We were all going to get in the support vehicles instead of biking up the nest big hill which appeared to be a bit dangerous because of the lack of a good shoulder. We all discussed and it was decided that three of us would attempt riding up the hill. Johnnie F, Eric, and myself would head for the hill.
Every other BTC ride we did on this road we went down this hill and up the nest gradual hill to Watertown. We were doing it in reverse this year.
The hill was real steep at first and we struggled. Lots of traffic and even a funeral procession of cars. But we all got to the top. The three of us would meet the rest up the road for a pizza lunch.
We rode for a while and came to the green in Terryville across from Immaculate Conception parish. They opened their door for us to use their rest room. How nice! The Holy Spirit was with us.
The pizza was delicious and we all filled ourselves again. Seems we do eat a lot on these rides.
After lunch we got back on the bikes. "Riders Up!"
We continued our way to West Hartford. Johnnie and Eric took to the front while the rest of us sort of spanned out. The traffic was somewhat of a concern but we all managed fine. Pam almost took out a mailman crossing in front of her as she barreled down a hill.
We got close to Holy Family Retreat Center and Johnnie and ERic were patiently waiting for us. We all road in to Holy Family together although the road was being repaired and was not suited well for a road bike. Jean Pierre on his mountain bikes was the happiest.
We all got to our rooms showered, a few snacks and then dinner of roast beef and other goodies. The food was wonderful. Fr. Stephen biked over from St. Bridget and although a bit sweaty enjoyed the dinner and, of course, his birthday cake, as we celebrated his 46th birthday.
We finished dinner and then got ready for the presentation at St. Peter Claver's parish.
The presentation went wel again although we did not have a large crowd, approximately 10 to 15 and there were several small children.
We followed the same presentation format with the presenters as we did at Sacred Heart. Jean Pierre was louder and as good as he was previously. He quietly got the message across. Tom Sacredote presented for the first time and was excellent. He brings another dynamic to the team.
And, as was started down in Milford, when we got to the Social Justice committee part of the presentation, we invited the representative from that parish to say a few words. So we invited Gigi Frailey to speak as we had Br. Larry in Milford and Chuck Dietsch in Southbury.
After the presentation we went back to Holy Family for some snacks, talk, and a singing of our BTC song, "We Must Not Be Silent".
We discussed the plans for the next day, our Finale, and we decided we would do the shorter ride to get to Bloomfield.
We we all tired and all but Johnnie, Pam and I left for bed. The three of us continued talking and sharing for a while longer.
The day ended peacefully just like the others. We are all blessed.
Lou
BTC 2011 Journal - Day 6 - Finale - West Hartford to Bloomfield
We all awoke and got ready for 7:00 am mass at Holy Family. We would har another inspiring homily by Fr. John Baptist Pesce. He was as good as ever. Today was the feast day of St. Irenaeus, a perfect saint for our mission of poverty awareness. In Fr. John's homily he emphasized we should all celebrate the dignity of oneself. His homily could not have been any better for us. It was like it was planned.
We left so blessed and feeling good.
Thank you Fr. Terry again for your hospitality!
We all went over to the other room for breakfast and we feasted again. Excellent breakfast food to get us energized for the day's ride. We also made sandwiches for lunch later.
Charlie joins us this morning. That was a nice addition for the day.
We gathered, prayed and left with a lot of time to take a nice leisurely ride to Bloomfield and Foodshare.
We had 11 cyclists this morning.
The ride was only a bit over 10 miles and we were making great progress as the route was quite easy today.
At this rate we would get to Foodshare too early. John Ryan suggested when we got to West Hartford that we hang around town and engage people. It was a great suggestion but no one took him up on it. We kept pedaling on.
We got to a small green and I decided to call Sarah Santora at Foodshare. She suggested we arrive around 11:45. Since it was only 10:30 we had some time to kill. So, Pam suggested we all discuss the weeklong and what stood out this year for us. A perfect idea.
Dave Kohl started s off mentioning how he had some kind of conversion this year and now feels he would like to cycle with us next year. This got us all going. We began to share ideas and feelings. It was suggested we go to those committed parishes a week prior to the weeklong and speak at their masses about BTC and the following week. It was also suggested we have a rally/protest in Hartford for poverty awareness and have many of those in poverty attend. We discussed having two teams of BTC cyclists especially on the weekend. Many shared what struck them most about the ride this year. A few mentioned we should have more of a resulting "Take Action" step.
The whole thing was the highlight of the 6 days in my opinion.
We had to cut the discussion short as we had to get to Foodshare on time.
Once we got there, Sarah and other Foodshare folks enthusiastically welcomed us. The Catholic Transcript was there to interview and talk to some of us. They documented our ride. Also Channel 61 Fox showed up and interviewed me. However, it never was broadcast on their nightly news. It reminded me what we have heard before, poverty is not a hot news item.
We were glad and fortunate to have Representative John Larson speak at this year's Finale. He was great and complementary on what we were doing and spoke in depth about the poverty issue of Connecticut and in the US.
I was fortunate to be the MC and introduce the speakers. I first mentioned a bit about BTC, where we rode this year, the hills, the rain, the saddle sores and how people in poverty suffer everyday where we only "suffer" for a few hours.
Fr Stephen first spoke and was excellent as always. He mentioned St. Irenaeus, Our mission as Christians and that it was our goal to put Foodshare out of business.
After Fr. Stephen and John Larson, the next speaker was a representative from the Governor's office, Deb Heinrich. She is the non-profit liaison. she to was excellent, thanked us for what we are doing. She also was grateful for what Foodshare and CABHN are doing.
Next were Sarah and Ellen Small Billard from CABHN. Sarah discussed the good Foodshare is doing for those less fortunate and their advocacy as well.
Ellen discussed CABHN's goal and mentioned their mission. We are fortunate to have partnered with CABHN going forward.
You should all connect with CABHN and get their news letter to stay informed on upcoming legislation that impacts low income folks. This is a "Take Action" step.
I ended the Finale by mentioning PEDAL and that we would be back on the roads again next year.
Great Finale!!
Some of us stayed and took part in the Hunger 101 workshop that followed. The experience was very informative as we were able to see how it felt for those in poverty and their everyday struggles to makes ends meet and what means and resources they "had" or didn't have. We actually walked in their footsteps.
If you get the chance to take this Workshop, "Do it!"
The a few of us rode back to St. Bridget to complete this year's journey. We arrived at St. Bridget without incident.
An end to a great 6 day "weeklong" experience.
Peace,
Lou
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Brake the Cycle of Poverty Bike Ride in PA - 8/8/2010
Recently we were contacted by Erica Hesselson from Kutztown, PA regarding Brake the Cycle. she has organized a fund-raiser bike ride to benefit her non-profit, community service organization in Kutztown called Friend, inc.
Friend, Inc. is a muilti-service social agency that supports the well- being of those in need and is committed to strengthening the lives of families and individuals living in Northeastern Berks County PA.
They provide a food pantry, case management, budget counseling, parenting support groups, and financial crisis intervention.
Erica was on the interent searching poverty related subjects and came upon our Brake the Cycle website to her surprise. She immediately reached out and invited us to join them for this poverty event.
Well, a few of us have taken her up on the invitation and will be heading to Kutztown to ride in solidarity to their cause, the benefit of Friend, Inc. and we are hopeful of developing an ongoing relationship in the fight against poverty in the United States and our respective states.
Watch for our journal next week.
Lou Terzo
Friend, Inc. is a muilti-service social agency that supports the well- being of those in need and is committed to strengthening the lives of families and individuals living in Northeastern Berks County PA.
They provide a food pantry, case management, budget counseling, parenting support groups, and financial crisis intervention.
Erica was on the interent searching poverty related subjects and came upon our Brake the Cycle website to her surprise. She immediately reached out and invited us to join them for this poverty event.
Well, a few of us have taken her up on the invitation and will be heading to Kutztown to ride in solidarity to their cause, the benefit of Friend, Inc. and we are hopeful of developing an ongoing relationship in the fight against poverty in the United States and our respective states.
Watch for our journal next week.
Lou Terzo
Monday, July 5, 2010
Pam’s 2010 BTC Ride Reflections:
After having a day to digest the last six days, I continue to be amazed by the Brake the Cycle Team. I have read all the comments that everyone has written and I have to agree with all of them. The community that has developed from this mission is something that I have never experienced in my life. Every year I am humbled by the team work that it takes to make this trip work. You all are disciples of God.
Every year that I have made this trip, it seems like one thing usually sticks out. Some years it is the poverty centers, the soup kitchens, the church communities, the bike ride or what we learn as a team. This year, we seemed to experience it all. We were able to see different programs that help the poor on Thursday and Friday and we were also able to visit our representatives. I thought our presentations ran very well. They were concise but very informative. We worked great as a team. I thought this year people were ready to hear what we had to say. This is a great sign. The people that were willing to take complete strangers into their homes were absolutely amazing. Everyone was very welcoming. I cannot tell you how many times I saw Jesus on this trip.
The biking part of the trip usually teaches me about myself and the team. This year was no different. I want to thank everyone for the strength that you give me on this trip. I have never seen so many hills as I did this year. To the faster riders, Doug, Tom, Lou, Johnny, Rob, I do know what you give up to try to keep us as a team. It is appreciated. You guys are amazing. To the riders in the back of the pack John, Bob (you were amazing on those hills) and Claire, you make it easy to ride with you. You provide support when I think I do not have the strength to do another hill. You make me laugh just when I think I am done. Charlie, Wayne and Lou, thanks for following behind us to make sure we are all safe. You guys are so patient and understanding. I know I never am alone. We couldn’t do it without you.
Father Stephen, it was go to see you and celebrate your birthday. We missed you riding. Thank you so much for all your support in this mission.
We missed you Ann. Hope you are feeling better.
To all of our support team, Suzanne, Kathy, Joan, Mary, Kelly, Dave, Wendy, John, Jane and Pat, We could not do this ride without you. You provide support when we need it the most. As Matthew 25 says you feed us when we are hungry, provide us drink when we are thirsty and help us from becoming lost and you keep us clean. Most of all you provide us with encouragement when we need it the most.
I treasure each and every one of you. Thanks for being a part of my life.
I am very proud to be part of the BTC team. I am looking forward to continuing the work that we started this past week. As I stated at our last meeting, I hope not to go into hibernation this year. It is time that I walk the walk and talk the talk for 52 weeks of the year rather than just one. This mission changes my life every year and this year was no different.
God Bless all of you,
Pam
Every year that I have made this trip, it seems like one thing usually sticks out. Some years it is the poverty centers, the soup kitchens, the church communities, the bike ride or what we learn as a team. This year, we seemed to experience it all. We were able to see different programs that help the poor on Thursday and Friday and we were also able to visit our representatives. I thought our presentations ran very well. They were concise but very informative. We worked great as a team. I thought this year people were ready to hear what we had to say. This is a great sign. The people that were willing to take complete strangers into their homes were absolutely amazing. Everyone was very welcoming. I cannot tell you how many times I saw Jesus on this trip.
The biking part of the trip usually teaches me about myself and the team. This year was no different. I want to thank everyone for the strength that you give me on this trip. I have never seen so many hills as I did this year. To the faster riders, Doug, Tom, Lou, Johnny, Rob, I do know what you give up to try to keep us as a team. It is appreciated. You guys are amazing. To the riders in the back of the pack John, Bob (you were amazing on those hills) and Claire, you make it easy to ride with you. You provide support when I think I do not have the strength to do another hill. You make me laugh just when I think I am done. Charlie, Wayne and Lou, thanks for following behind us to make sure we are all safe. You guys are so patient and understanding. I know I never am alone. We couldn’t do it without you.
Father Stephen, it was go to see you and celebrate your birthday. We missed you riding. Thank you so much for all your support in this mission.
We missed you Ann. Hope you are feeling better.
To all of our support team, Suzanne, Kathy, Joan, Mary, Kelly, Dave, Wendy, John, Jane and Pat, We could not do this ride without you. You provide support when we need it the most. As Matthew 25 says you feed us when we are hungry, provide us drink when we are thirsty and help us from becoming lost and you keep us clean. Most of all you provide us with encouragement when we need it the most.
I treasure each and every one of you. Thanks for being a part of my life.
I am very proud to be part of the BTC team. I am looking forward to continuing the work that we started this past week. As I stated at our last meeting, I hope not to go into hibernation this year. It is time that I walk the walk and talk the talk for 52 weeks of the year rather than just one. This mission changes my life every year and this year was no different.
God Bless all of you,
Pam
BTC 2010 Journal Day 6 – West Hartford to Waterbury (the Finale)
We awoke to a beautiful morning and meandered over for 7:00 mass in the chapel at Holy Family. Fr. John Baptist said mass. Fr. Terry and the team attended and it was a nice way to begin the day.
After mass we headed over to have breakfast. We had a nice selection to eat and the coffee hit the spot.
We also were supplied lunch meat and bread to make sandwiches for later in the day. Sometime if you ever get a chance ask Bob King about sandwiches and the beach.
After a good morning meal and some reflections on the previous day, we all gathered outside and prepared our bikes and ourselves for the day’s ride.
This would be our last ride on this year’s tour. The Finale.
We would be biking to Waterbury to a Naugatuck Valley Project site called ANAMET.
The NVP has embarked on a campaign to transform ANAMET, a Waterbury brownfield, into an asset for surrounding low income communities and all of the Waterbury area. NVP is asking for federal funding for assessment, remediation and redevelopment of the 17-acre site.
The area has some environmental problems but with the proper investment and funding, the intention is to build a Community Center that will not only serve the people of the area but will beautify the site as well.
We look forward to this finale as we did last year when we finished at PHRN, the Public Housing Resident Network. We were fortunate last year to be part of that celebration where PHRN was given a $35,000 grant from CCHD.
The ride from Holy Family was not bad at all. We would hit a few hills here and there but nothing like the hills in Bethlehem and New Milford. Kind of a piece of cake ride today. This was especially true when we came to the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. This was a 2 mile bike path with beautiful smooth pavement. Very nice.
While on Old Waterbury Road, which had a nice hill, we came upon Epiphany Roman Catholic church. I wanted to go in but the doors were locked. It would have been nice to connect with somebody there and also to use their restrooms. Come to find out that Wendy and Joan did, in fact, get into the church and were able to leave some of our information with a person at the church. Who knows, maybe we will here from them. In any case, I can mention we stopped by and try to connect with them for an upcoming visit.
At this point we were a little more than 5 miles from our point of completion.
We began looking for a place to have lunch. We came upon a cemetery and parked ourselves under some trees at the entrance. We really were not infringing on their grounds. It was a great place to stop.
Out came the sandwiches, the fruit, the cookies, the chips, the Gatorade but best of all the chocolate milk from Subway. Yummy!!!
We relaxed while consuming our lunch. As it got nearer to 1:30 we decided it was time to get back on our bikes and head over to 99 Jewelry Street, the site of ANAMET.
John Ryan led the way. We arrived in plenty of time. We were greeted by Cori Thibodeau, Executive Director, Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry and Bishop Peter Rosazza.
After a short while the Finale began. Cori introduced Bob King who represented the BTC Team. Bob, in his eloquent way, thanked everyone and mentioned how proud we were to be part of this finale and reminded Bishop Peter how he had told us back on the send off on our initial ride to Washington DC that he could not make the hills flat, as John Ryan had requested, but that we should think of the poor with every pedal stroke as we struggled up each hill. Those in poverty struggle 24/7 with no relief. We get fed, showered, and a place to sleep with a roof over our heads.
Bob did request of Bishop Peter that perhaps he could do something about those hills in Bethlehem and New Milford.
After Bob spoke Cori introduced Steve Schrag from the Naugatuck Valley Project and Western Connecticut Central Labor Council. He was very articulate in explaining the plan for the ANAMET site. He rattled off some statistics that further emphasized the need for this planned renovation.
After Steve came Ken Curran, a representative from Congressman Chris Murphy’s Office. Ken first commented on our cycling jerseys and how good looking they were. I had to pat myself on the back for that one. He then congratulated the BTC team and what we are doing and offered Chris Murphy’s assistance in the fight against poverty. We definitely have to hook up with Chris Murphy’s office next year. Looks like we will be biking those Waterbury hills again next year.
Finally Bishop Peter said a few words about the NVP and his connection with them. He also thanked us and everyone involved in making this happen. He then awarded the representative from NVP a $30,000 check to begin the work to be done here. What a great end to a 6 day tour for poverty awareness!!!
We rode in total about 240 miles. Not quite the 50 mile per day average we mention in our presentations but close enough. There is always next year.
Keep pedaling my friends and keep PEDALing too!
Lou
After mass we headed over to have breakfast. We had a nice selection to eat and the coffee hit the spot.
We also were supplied lunch meat and bread to make sandwiches for later in the day. Sometime if you ever get a chance ask Bob King about sandwiches and the beach.
After a good morning meal and some reflections on the previous day, we all gathered outside and prepared our bikes and ourselves for the day’s ride.
This would be our last ride on this year’s tour. The Finale.
We would be biking to Waterbury to a Naugatuck Valley Project site called ANAMET.
The NVP has embarked on a campaign to transform ANAMET, a Waterbury brownfield, into an asset for surrounding low income communities and all of the Waterbury area. NVP is asking for federal funding for assessment, remediation and redevelopment of the 17-acre site.
The area has some environmental problems but with the proper investment and funding, the intention is to build a Community Center that will not only serve the people of the area but will beautify the site as well.
We look forward to this finale as we did last year when we finished at PHRN, the Public Housing Resident Network. We were fortunate last year to be part of that celebration where PHRN was given a $35,000 grant from CCHD.
The ride from Holy Family was not bad at all. We would hit a few hills here and there but nothing like the hills in Bethlehem and New Milford. Kind of a piece of cake ride today. This was especially true when we came to the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. This was a 2 mile bike path with beautiful smooth pavement. Very nice.
While on Old Waterbury Road, which had a nice hill, we came upon Epiphany Roman Catholic church. I wanted to go in but the doors were locked. It would have been nice to connect with somebody there and also to use their restrooms. Come to find out that Wendy and Joan did, in fact, get into the church and were able to leave some of our information with a person at the church. Who knows, maybe we will here from them. In any case, I can mention we stopped by and try to connect with them for an upcoming visit.
At this point we were a little more than 5 miles from our point of completion.
We began looking for a place to have lunch. We came upon a cemetery and parked ourselves under some trees at the entrance. We really were not infringing on their grounds. It was a great place to stop.
Out came the sandwiches, the fruit, the cookies, the chips, the Gatorade but best of all the chocolate milk from Subway. Yummy!!!
We relaxed while consuming our lunch. As it got nearer to 1:30 we decided it was time to get back on our bikes and head over to 99 Jewelry Street, the site of ANAMET.
John Ryan led the way. We arrived in plenty of time. We were greeted by Cori Thibodeau, Executive Director, Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry and Bishop Peter Rosazza.
After a short while the Finale began. Cori introduced Bob King who represented the BTC Team. Bob, in his eloquent way, thanked everyone and mentioned how proud we were to be part of this finale and reminded Bishop Peter how he had told us back on the send off on our initial ride to Washington DC that he could not make the hills flat, as John Ryan had requested, but that we should think of the poor with every pedal stroke as we struggled up each hill. Those in poverty struggle 24/7 with no relief. We get fed, showered, and a place to sleep with a roof over our heads.
Bob did request of Bishop Peter that perhaps he could do something about those hills in Bethlehem and New Milford.
After Bob spoke Cori introduced Steve Schrag from the Naugatuck Valley Project and Western Connecticut Central Labor Council. He was very articulate in explaining the plan for the ANAMET site. He rattled off some statistics that further emphasized the need for this planned renovation.
After Steve came Ken Curran, a representative from Congressman Chris Murphy’s Office. Ken first commented on our cycling jerseys and how good looking they were. I had to pat myself on the back for that one. He then congratulated the BTC team and what we are doing and offered Chris Murphy’s assistance in the fight against poverty. We definitely have to hook up with Chris Murphy’s office next year. Looks like we will be biking those Waterbury hills again next year.
Finally Bishop Peter said a few words about the NVP and his connection with them. He also thanked us and everyone involved in making this happen. He then awarded the representative from NVP a $30,000 check to begin the work to be done here. What a great end to a 6 day tour for poverty awareness!!!
We rode in total about 240 miles. Not quite the 50 mile per day average we mention in our presentations but close enough. There is always next year.
Keep pedaling my friends and keep PEDALing too!
Lou
BTC 2010 Journal Day 5 – New Milford to Collinsville to Wethersfield
We had a wonderful breakfast with those folks who brought us over to the church and revisited last evening We were more relaxed this more as we believed we had much more time to make it to our next two destinations. We would be splitting up this afternoon. Some of us would stay in Collinsville while the others ventured over to Wethersfield. Two presentations at the same time. Hadn’t done that before.
Bob made a revision to his Cue Sheet and we avoided going up those monstrous hills on Route 109 at the beginning of our ride. We stayed on Route 202 which was definitely a more pleasant ride. There was more traffic but wide shoulder and far less hill climbing. We would stay on this route for like 19 miles.
There were some steep hills here and there. Going into Litchfield was “fun”.
John Ryan fell a couple of times and had a small issue with his bike an shifting but he survived.
While in Litchfield when we were taking a break on their green, we noticed a couple of folks with a big camera. Thinking it was some film crew I ventured over and had a small conversation with the women “reporter”. She thought our mission was interesting but the cameraman did not had what was necessary to film or interview us. I gave her my card none the less. You never know.
I also went over to the restaurant where we had a great send off breakfast when we last visited this area and presented at St. Anthony of Padua parish several years ago. I wanted to see if Michael Lynn Capello still worked there. They did not remember her or us.
We continued our ride and enjoyed some nice down hills as well. As we entered the Burlington/Collinsville area we hit a 2 mile down hill that had to be on of the best down hills we ever experienced. I broke the speed limit for the second time on this ride. The first time the speed limit was 25 mph but this time it was 40 mph. Wow!
We hung a right at the bottom of that hill and proceeded on to St. Patrick’s. We arrived around 2:00, more than 4 hours early.
We had our lunch in the cool basement of the church and relaxed some before the four bikers heading on to Wethersfield had to depart. Everyone else who “had” to hang around until 6:00 pm decided to go to Holy Family to shower and relax, take a nap, whatever.
We need to hear from someone who presented at St. Patrick’s. this would be Claire’s first time presenting. From what I was told she is a natural and did a great job. Sue Ryan also pitched in on that presentation.
Johnnie F, Tom, Pam, and I rode to Corpus Christi parish. We left around 2:30 and arrived there at 4:00. We were two hours early. Nancy Kiely came around 3:00 and we discussed setting up. She was concerned about the possibility of a lack of attendance.
The four of us had to “shower” in the sink in the respective Men’s or Ladie’s rooms. While I was in “showering” in walked a gentlemen who had a shock I am sure because I was in my birthday suit when he came in to do his thing. He didn’t say one word or make a jester or move to wash his hands. He just quietly left when he was done. I am sure he had a story to tell.
After our “showers” we told Nancy we would be going over to Cold Stone Creamery for some ice cream and be back in plenty of time.
Yummy! Was that ice cream good.
Went back to Corpus Christi. Pam said she was surprised that this parish was on our list and sort of echoed the concern Nancy had. When we got to the church the parking lot was full. But it wasn’t for us. They had daily mass.
During the potluck we did get a decent crowd of about 25. And, we had the parish’s three pastors in attendance. One was the retiring pastor, Fr. Lonegan who served both Corpus Christi and Sacred Heart parishes. The other was the new pastor, Fr. Jay and the other was Fr. Campion. We also had a visit from Fr. Stephen. So we had four priests at the beginning of our presentation. Hadn’t had that happen preciously.
The presentation went well and we engaged with the participants quite frequently. I could tell Nancy was pleased because she was smiling as we ended. She came over and was impressed with the turnout and our message. Nice how the Holy Spirit works His ways.
It was a great end to our presentations for the week. We took home some goodies and packed up and headed for Holy Family.
Unfortunately we found out that Fr. Terry was a bit indisposed with some health issues and would not be joining us tonight as we would all gather for a little celebration of Fr. Stephen’s 44th birthday.
We got to Holy Family slightly ahead of the others coming from St. Patrick’s.
We put the bikes away for safety and went to our assigned rooms. It was quite stifling from the heat of the day but we suffered through it.
Rob DeSesa also joined us this night. He would ride with us on Tuesday to the finale in Waterbury.
A pretty nice day of sharing and we finally ha a chance to be together as a group and tell some stories, laugh, and relax together. Although it was hot, everyone stayed around until they realized we had to get some rest for tomorrow. I will remember this ride to some degree because of the trials and tribulations of Claire. She sure had some stories. So glad she joined us on the ride. She hung in there even when the hills pulled her down.
Pedal or ……., Pedal or ……….
Lou
Bob made a revision to his Cue Sheet and we avoided going up those monstrous hills on Route 109 at the beginning of our ride. We stayed on Route 202 which was definitely a more pleasant ride. There was more traffic but wide shoulder and far less hill climbing. We would stay on this route for like 19 miles.
There were some steep hills here and there. Going into Litchfield was “fun”.
John Ryan fell a couple of times and had a small issue with his bike an shifting but he survived.
While in Litchfield when we were taking a break on their green, we noticed a couple of folks with a big camera. Thinking it was some film crew I ventured over and had a small conversation with the women “reporter”. She thought our mission was interesting but the cameraman did not had what was necessary to film or interview us. I gave her my card none the less. You never know.
I also went over to the restaurant where we had a great send off breakfast when we last visited this area and presented at St. Anthony of Padua parish several years ago. I wanted to see if Michael Lynn Capello still worked there. They did not remember her or us.
We continued our ride and enjoyed some nice down hills as well. As we entered the Burlington/Collinsville area we hit a 2 mile down hill that had to be on of the best down hills we ever experienced. I broke the speed limit for the second time on this ride. The first time the speed limit was 25 mph but this time it was 40 mph. Wow!
We hung a right at the bottom of that hill and proceeded on to St. Patrick’s. We arrived around 2:00, more than 4 hours early.
We had our lunch in the cool basement of the church and relaxed some before the four bikers heading on to Wethersfield had to depart. Everyone else who “had” to hang around until 6:00 pm decided to go to Holy Family to shower and relax, take a nap, whatever.
We need to hear from someone who presented at St. Patrick’s. this would be Claire’s first time presenting. From what I was told she is a natural and did a great job. Sue Ryan also pitched in on that presentation.
Johnnie F, Tom, Pam, and I rode to Corpus Christi parish. We left around 2:30 and arrived there at 4:00. We were two hours early. Nancy Kiely came around 3:00 and we discussed setting up. She was concerned about the possibility of a lack of attendance.
The four of us had to “shower” in the sink in the respective Men’s or Ladie’s rooms. While I was in “showering” in walked a gentlemen who had a shock I am sure because I was in my birthday suit when he came in to do his thing. He didn’t say one word or make a jester or move to wash his hands. He just quietly left when he was done. I am sure he had a story to tell.
After our “showers” we told Nancy we would be going over to Cold Stone Creamery for some ice cream and be back in plenty of time.
Yummy! Was that ice cream good.
Went back to Corpus Christi. Pam said she was surprised that this parish was on our list and sort of echoed the concern Nancy had. When we got to the church the parking lot was full. But it wasn’t for us. They had daily mass.
During the potluck we did get a decent crowd of about 25. And, we had the parish’s three pastors in attendance. One was the retiring pastor, Fr. Lonegan who served both Corpus Christi and Sacred Heart parishes. The other was the new pastor, Fr. Jay and the other was Fr. Campion. We also had a visit from Fr. Stephen. So we had four priests at the beginning of our presentation. Hadn’t had that happen preciously.
The presentation went well and we engaged with the participants quite frequently. I could tell Nancy was pleased because she was smiling as we ended. She came over and was impressed with the turnout and our message. Nice how the Holy Spirit works His ways.
It was a great end to our presentations for the week. We took home some goodies and packed up and headed for Holy Family.
Unfortunately we found out that Fr. Terry was a bit indisposed with some health issues and would not be joining us tonight as we would all gather for a little celebration of Fr. Stephen’s 44th birthday.
We got to Holy Family slightly ahead of the others coming from St. Patrick’s.
We put the bikes away for safety and went to our assigned rooms. It was quite stifling from the heat of the day but we suffered through it.
Rob DeSesa also joined us this night. He would ride with us on Tuesday to the finale in Waterbury.
A pretty nice day of sharing and we finally ha a chance to be together as a group and tell some stories, laugh, and relax together. Although it was hot, everyone stayed around until they realized we had to get some rest for tomorrow. I will remember this ride to some degree because of the trials and tribulations of Claire. She sure had some stories. So glad she joined us on the ride. She hung in there even when the hills pulled her down.
Pedal or ……., Pedal or ……….
Lou
BTC 2010 Journal Day 4 – Bethlehem to Hamden to New Milford
We left the Church of the Nativity, after breakfasting at our respective host families homes, as early as possible so that there would be time for the bikers to ride into Church of the Ascension in Hamden. Well, as things sometimes happen, we never had an opportunity to get on our bikes and rode in the support vehicles all the way to Hamden.
As it was, we arrived at the church as the 9:00 mass was just ending and parishioners were filing into the coffee and donut time after mass.
John Ryan quickly got the presentation set up but we could not get the remote slide changer to work (batteries). So we presented the old fashion way using our fingers to do the pointing.
We were pleasantly surprised by the number of folks who attended our presentation. This would be a reoccurring trend for the week.
We had revised our presentation so that we could complete it within the timeframe allowed between their 9:00 and 11:00 masses. We actually did what we had to do in 42 minutes!! Everyone who spoke did so in a focused manner and right on point. One of our better presentations if you ask me.
Afterwards we had some good dialogue with some of the participants who stayed for the presentation and they shared some interesting comments. This one couple shared how some of their friends are so oblivious to the poverty situation. One person they told us about was a lawyer friend who could not believe that people in poverty weren’t there through no fault but their own, that there wasn’t any systemic problem. Complete blinders. It’s just that there are people out there who do not want to “see” or choose not to “see”. We were grateful for this sharing and many provided positive feedback to our presentation.
It just seemed more people were being responsive to what we had to say than in other years.
We left the Church of the Ascension fully charged yet knowing there would be some challenging hills ahead.
First thing we hit was Hill Street. What does that tell you? Any street or road or lane or avenue with the word “hill” in it tells you it ain’t flat.
Granted that sometimes it could be a down hill which we all thoroughly enjoy.
Well it seemed there were more up hill hills than down and they were a bit hard to climb. I got off my bike again even if it was for a short bit. Seemed like a couple of hills were real killers. Names like Gaylord Mountain Road, Towantic Hill Road, Jacks Hill Road.
When we approached Southbury we had an opportunity to again bike on Poverty Road. We decided not to do so. Once you have been on Poverty Road you really do not want to do it again!
We picked up Tom in Southbury and continued the ride to St. Francis Xavier. Time was running short and it was doubtful we would make it on our bikes. So sooner than later we were asked to get in the cars.
We drove into New Milford and St. Xavier’s. Around the back of the church Deb Zahn welcomed us and led us over to her house where we would all shower and get ready for mass.
It was an adventure driving up those hills to Deb’s house. We were supposed to go up them same hills the next morning. None of us knew that as we drove over to Deb’s house.
Her house was beautiful with several showers and a nice pool where several of us took advantage of a quick dip.
Since we had already gone to mass earlier we decided we would venture back to the church in time to set up and partake in the potluck.
After a bit of relaxing, we headed over and arrived as mass ended and had a wonderful meal. Many of us sat with the parishioners and shared stories. At our table, Denise shared her story openly. She had been homeless and had to visit food pantries and the shelter. Se had some physical problems and needed hip replacement surgery and had to rely on her family for support but she was really too proud to ask for help. That is why she would up in the shelter and having to go to the food pantry. So she knew what it meant to be in poverty. But here she was after pulling herself up and out and wanting to give something back. She still had difficulties in her life but wanted to hear what we had to say. She took my card and said she would reach out to the Episcopal church in the area to try and set up a visit. She was quite a lady. I think most people at our table very shocked as she revealed her story so openly.
We presented this night to an audience that included many teenagers. The reaction and interaction was quite good. After we were done a young lady approached me with some difficulty speaking. I had thought that she was choked up after my Jesus story but it was more than that. She asked if we had ever presented in Bristol. I indicated we had. She began to cry and wail a bit and said that she thinks she saw a photo of her mom among the images we used in our presentation of those who can be in poverty, you and me. We replayed that portion of the slide presentation and she pointed out the photo. She cried even harder. This was her birth mom who she had not seen from what I understand for a long time. This young lady had been adopted by a family in New Milford after being in four other homes. So, the picture of her mom was overwhelming to her. They asked if I could send the photo. I said I would dig it out and do so. The young lady gave me her email address.
We then gathered to get our host family assignments. This year would be the year of the host families.
We then all left to be reunited in the morning at the church for breakfast and departure to Collinsville and Wethersfield.
The Lord blessed us again with good weather and safe riding and meeting good people.
Lou
As it was, we arrived at the church as the 9:00 mass was just ending and parishioners were filing into the coffee and donut time after mass.
John Ryan quickly got the presentation set up but we could not get the remote slide changer to work (batteries). So we presented the old fashion way using our fingers to do the pointing.
We were pleasantly surprised by the number of folks who attended our presentation. This would be a reoccurring trend for the week.
We had revised our presentation so that we could complete it within the timeframe allowed between their 9:00 and 11:00 masses. We actually did what we had to do in 42 minutes!! Everyone who spoke did so in a focused manner and right on point. One of our better presentations if you ask me.
Afterwards we had some good dialogue with some of the participants who stayed for the presentation and they shared some interesting comments. This one couple shared how some of their friends are so oblivious to the poverty situation. One person they told us about was a lawyer friend who could not believe that people in poverty weren’t there through no fault but their own, that there wasn’t any systemic problem. Complete blinders. It’s just that there are people out there who do not want to “see” or choose not to “see”. We were grateful for this sharing and many provided positive feedback to our presentation.
It just seemed more people were being responsive to what we had to say than in other years.
We left the Church of the Ascension fully charged yet knowing there would be some challenging hills ahead.
First thing we hit was Hill Street. What does that tell you? Any street or road or lane or avenue with the word “hill” in it tells you it ain’t flat.
Granted that sometimes it could be a down hill which we all thoroughly enjoy.
Well it seemed there were more up hill hills than down and they were a bit hard to climb. I got off my bike again even if it was for a short bit. Seemed like a couple of hills were real killers. Names like Gaylord Mountain Road, Towantic Hill Road, Jacks Hill Road.
When we approached Southbury we had an opportunity to again bike on Poverty Road. We decided not to do so. Once you have been on Poverty Road you really do not want to do it again!
We picked up Tom in Southbury and continued the ride to St. Francis Xavier. Time was running short and it was doubtful we would make it on our bikes. So sooner than later we were asked to get in the cars.
We drove into New Milford and St. Xavier’s. Around the back of the church Deb Zahn welcomed us and led us over to her house where we would all shower and get ready for mass.
It was an adventure driving up those hills to Deb’s house. We were supposed to go up them same hills the next morning. None of us knew that as we drove over to Deb’s house.
Her house was beautiful with several showers and a nice pool where several of us took advantage of a quick dip.
Since we had already gone to mass earlier we decided we would venture back to the church in time to set up and partake in the potluck.
After a bit of relaxing, we headed over and arrived as mass ended and had a wonderful meal. Many of us sat with the parishioners and shared stories. At our table, Denise shared her story openly. She had been homeless and had to visit food pantries and the shelter. Se had some physical problems and needed hip replacement surgery and had to rely on her family for support but she was really too proud to ask for help. That is why she would up in the shelter and having to go to the food pantry. So she knew what it meant to be in poverty. But here she was after pulling herself up and out and wanting to give something back. She still had difficulties in her life but wanted to hear what we had to say. She took my card and said she would reach out to the Episcopal church in the area to try and set up a visit. She was quite a lady. I think most people at our table very shocked as she revealed her story so openly.
We presented this night to an audience that included many teenagers. The reaction and interaction was quite good. After we were done a young lady approached me with some difficulty speaking. I had thought that she was choked up after my Jesus story but it was more than that. She asked if we had ever presented in Bristol. I indicated we had. She began to cry and wail a bit and said that she thinks she saw a photo of her mom among the images we used in our presentation of those who can be in poverty, you and me. We replayed that portion of the slide presentation and she pointed out the photo. She cried even harder. This was her birth mom who she had not seen from what I understand for a long time. This young lady had been adopted by a family in New Milford after being in four other homes. So, the picture of her mom was overwhelming to her. They asked if I could send the photo. I said I would dig it out and do so. The young lady gave me her email address.
We then gathered to get our host family assignments. This year would be the year of the host families.
We then all left to be reunited in the morning at the church for breakfast and departure to Collinsville and Wethersfield.
The Lord blessed us again with good weather and safe riding and meeting good people.
Lou
Reflections from a New Biker
Reflections from a new biker………….
Hi Team: I felt compelled to write about this experience from a new rider's perspective. ....and thank you for an awesome spin into new hills and valleys. Love, Claire
So what is it that would make someone take vacation time to be with a group of people that she doesn’t know well, biking on a bike just purchased in April, to go to some of the lowest income areas in Connecticut? Really, there is nothing rational about this decision but a response to an invitation, and a spiritual prompting.
The days before the ride were very anxious for me. Could I actually do this? I am not exactly young, I did not have time to train the way one should probably train, I had fallen once and that was not an event I wanted to repeat. Many people were cheering for me including the Office of Catholic Social Justice Ministry, the Nutrition Team at CT Children’s, the folks at St. Elizabeth Seton, my kids and most importantly my husband, Rich. I did not want to let them down, nor did I personally want to fail.
Those who have lived with me know that I am totally dysfunctional in the morning. So, to think that I could get up at 5:00 AM to be at St. Bridget’s by 7:00 AM , to start riding soon after was in itself a grandiose miracle.
Seeing everyone in the green, white and orange shirts made me feel part of the group. We started off, my heart was pounding, not from biking but from profound fear. Those first moments are a bit of a blur…..what gear to be in, can I keep up? was it Pam behind me encouraging me?...watch the glass, the pot holes, the cars…why am I panting so much? Is my heart ok? What is my pulse? Have I used up all my glycogen? Am I totally out of my mind? Frankly, it was all about me and I was having a field day in my head examining my response to the first few miles.
In a while, we passed the SAG(supplies and gear) wagon and they yelled out, we are so proud of you. I wanted to cry and I think I did. I felt the love. But you really can’t cry and ride so I talked myself out of it and kept going. Then the hills began and I felt myself empty of energy, felt my lungs expand beyond what I thought they could and felt the doubt of whether I could do this. Then I saw the sign for Coventry. That is where my parents lived their last years and memories just flooded my mind. Under my breath, I said….mom, dad…can you believe I biked to Coventry? Remember when I told you it was so far to Coventry and why did you live so far from me. I felt sad that I had not visited them more and began to cry again. Biking does not really allow you to stay in a morose state as you need to attend to the next hill.
The flowers are just so beautiful as you bike along. Tiger lilies, flax, Russian sage, orange, blue, purple just whizzing past your vision….sun shining, very hot, now shady, now passing over a stream and a chill is in the air…so refreshing.
When we finally got to Willimantic, the experience changed for me. Just for history purposes for those who don’t know me, I have always been justice minded by serving on boards, serving food at soup kitchens, advising on what programs are needed and how could they be funded and donating. I have always stood safely on the perimeter. But in Willimantic we began to get “up close and personal”. We stood outside the Soup Kitchen and talked to Dave. He said he got some income from canning. I thought he worked at a cannery, canning tomatoes or something like that. Then I learned that someone like Dave cannot get a job and canning means collecting cans. He described how he walks about town, searching for cans on the roadside and in dumpsters. There are good days and bad. He described his weight loss from his constant need to walk just to get a minimal income. He talked about a long walk to a local park as he had heard that there were baseball games there and people probably left lots of cans. He made it to the park but there was no game that day…..a wasted walk. I thought to myself, why wouldn’t he have checked the newspaper and remembered that poor people don’t get the newspaper every day as I do. He described how there are canning territories and if you go to someone else’s territory there can be violence. I began to understand the energy and drive it takes just to get through the day. I think I understand why poor people just give up. When I tired on the bike ride, there was always the sag wagon pulling up and an offer to put my bike on the rack and jump in. There I was engulfed in air conditioning, offering of snacks, lots of encouragement and a ride to the top. I was able to opt out when the going got tough…those in poverty have few advocates and little opportunity to opt out.
When we joined the others at the table in the soup kitchen I listened to their stories. These are people who have encountered bad times due to unexpected circumstances, emotional issues that don’t allow them to recover a baseline existence, illness. We met a gentleman who had worked for the State Dept. of Education for 17 years and now has diagnosed alzhiemer’s disease. Without support, it is impossible to figure out how to lift himself from this poverty existence. I was humbled by all of this and realized how easy it is to judge another person when you really know nothing about them. Beneath the unshaven faces, I saw the dignity and face of Jesus in each of them.
The Willimantic experience changed the bike ride for me. I realized that it was really not about me and my biking expertise, it was about encountering others. Being at the back of the pack, pedaling at what was my absolute max, knowing that the rest of team were probably wishing I could go a lot faster was a poverty experience for me. I was emptied of all that I had and filled it with the love I felt on the team, the generosity that I received from the support team and the hospitality that we received at each stop.
And on the day after the ride, I still feel myself pedaling and feel the motion forward. I do not want to forget this, I want to move forward, I want to help.
Claire
Hi Team: I felt compelled to write about this experience from a new rider's perspective. ....and thank you for an awesome spin into new hills and valleys. Love, Claire
So what is it that would make someone take vacation time to be with a group of people that she doesn’t know well, biking on a bike just purchased in April, to go to some of the lowest income areas in Connecticut? Really, there is nothing rational about this decision but a response to an invitation, and a spiritual prompting.
The days before the ride were very anxious for me. Could I actually do this? I am not exactly young, I did not have time to train the way one should probably train, I had fallen once and that was not an event I wanted to repeat. Many people were cheering for me including the Office of Catholic Social Justice Ministry, the Nutrition Team at CT Children’s, the folks at St. Elizabeth Seton, my kids and most importantly my husband, Rich. I did not want to let them down, nor did I personally want to fail.
Those who have lived with me know that I am totally dysfunctional in the morning. So, to think that I could get up at 5:00 AM to be at St. Bridget’s by 7:00 AM , to start riding soon after was in itself a grandiose miracle.
Seeing everyone in the green, white and orange shirts made me feel part of the group. We started off, my heart was pounding, not from biking but from profound fear. Those first moments are a bit of a blur…..what gear to be in, can I keep up? was it Pam behind me encouraging me?...watch the glass, the pot holes, the cars…why am I panting so much? Is my heart ok? What is my pulse? Have I used up all my glycogen? Am I totally out of my mind? Frankly, it was all about me and I was having a field day in my head examining my response to the first few miles.
In a while, we passed the SAG(supplies and gear) wagon and they yelled out, we are so proud of you. I wanted to cry and I think I did. I felt the love. But you really can’t cry and ride so I talked myself out of it and kept going. Then the hills began and I felt myself empty of energy, felt my lungs expand beyond what I thought they could and felt the doubt of whether I could do this. Then I saw the sign for Coventry. That is where my parents lived their last years and memories just flooded my mind. Under my breath, I said….mom, dad…can you believe I biked to Coventry? Remember when I told you it was so far to Coventry and why did you live so far from me. I felt sad that I had not visited them more and began to cry again. Biking does not really allow you to stay in a morose state as you need to attend to the next hill.
The flowers are just so beautiful as you bike along. Tiger lilies, flax, Russian sage, orange, blue, purple just whizzing past your vision….sun shining, very hot, now shady, now passing over a stream and a chill is in the air…so refreshing.
When we finally got to Willimantic, the experience changed for me. Just for history purposes for those who don’t know me, I have always been justice minded by serving on boards, serving food at soup kitchens, advising on what programs are needed and how could they be funded and donating. I have always stood safely on the perimeter. But in Willimantic we began to get “up close and personal”. We stood outside the Soup Kitchen and talked to Dave. He said he got some income from canning. I thought he worked at a cannery, canning tomatoes or something like that. Then I learned that someone like Dave cannot get a job and canning means collecting cans. He described how he walks about town, searching for cans on the roadside and in dumpsters. There are good days and bad. He described his weight loss from his constant need to walk just to get a minimal income. He talked about a long walk to a local park as he had heard that there were baseball games there and people probably left lots of cans. He made it to the park but there was no game that day…..a wasted walk. I thought to myself, why wouldn’t he have checked the newspaper and remembered that poor people don’t get the newspaper every day as I do. He described how there are canning territories and if you go to someone else’s territory there can be violence. I began to understand the energy and drive it takes just to get through the day. I think I understand why poor people just give up. When I tired on the bike ride, there was always the sag wagon pulling up and an offer to put my bike on the rack and jump in. There I was engulfed in air conditioning, offering of snacks, lots of encouragement and a ride to the top. I was able to opt out when the going got tough…those in poverty have few advocates and little opportunity to opt out.
When we joined the others at the table in the soup kitchen I listened to their stories. These are people who have encountered bad times due to unexpected circumstances, emotional issues that don’t allow them to recover a baseline existence, illness. We met a gentleman who had worked for the State Dept. of Education for 17 years and now has diagnosed alzhiemer’s disease. Without support, it is impossible to figure out how to lift himself from this poverty existence. I was humbled by all of this and realized how easy it is to judge another person when you really know nothing about them. Beneath the unshaven faces, I saw the dignity and face of Jesus in each of them.
The Willimantic experience changed the bike ride for me. I realized that it was really not about me and my biking expertise, it was about encountering others. Being at the back of the pack, pedaling at what was my absolute max, knowing that the rest of team were probably wishing I could go a lot faster was a poverty experience for me. I was emptied of all that I had and filled it with the love I felt on the team, the generosity that I received from the support team and the hospitality that we received at each stop.
And on the day after the ride, I still feel myself pedaling and feel the motion forward. I do not want to forget this, I want to move forward, I want to help.
Claire
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